WASHINGTON – Applications for fall internships with Senator Chuck Grassley are due June 15.

 

Internships are available for college-age Iowans in Grassley offices in Washington, D.C., Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Davenport, Des Moines, Sioux City and Waterloo.  The internships last from August 20 through December 15.

 

Senate interns assist staff members with administrative, legislative and communications work, including that of Grassley's staff on the Senate Committee on the Judiciary, where he serves as Ranking Member.  A video about Grassley internships produced by last year's summer interns can be seen here.

 

Grassley said he encourages young Iowans who are interested in learning more about government to apply.  "Working in a congressional office is a good way for college students and new graduates to learn more about the legislative branch of the federal government while gaining valuable work experience.  Internships in my offices are available to students in all areas of study," he said.

 

Application forms are available on Grassley's Senate website and in Grassley's offices in Iowa. Due to security-related delays in postal mail delivery to U.S. Senate office buildings, internship applications should be emailed to intern_applications@grassley.senate.gov.  For additional information, send messages to intern_applications@grassley.senate.gov or call 202-224-3744.

 

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Tens of thousands of greyhounds are bred every year for the 27 racetracks in the United States, according to the U.S. Humane Society. They're intentionally over-bred so there will be ample to replace old and underperforming greyhounds at the tracks. Each year, thousands of these retired dogs do not find a home; they are killed.

"These dogs have feelings and intelligence, but they are treated like racing slaves so people can gamble," says retired police officer Irvin Cannon, a dog lover whose book, For the Love of Dog Tales (www.FortheLoveofDogTales.com), gives voice to man's best friend. "Who is the winner in this scenario?"

The Humane Society estimates thousands of retired racing dogs are put to death every year. Rabbits are another industry victim; thousands are maimed or killed in the race-training process.

Cannon says there are some things to remember for those considering adopting a greyhound:

• They typically don't have issues associated with abuse: Greyhounds may not get a lot of love in the kennels, but are not oftenabused by track personnel. They tend to respond to fear and violence by either freezing in place or running. Since they are trained to chase rabbits, they may be inclined to pursue small running animals.

• Greyhounds tend to be intelligent, timid: These dogs are considered gentle and reserved, but stubborn. If they sense they can take control, they will, so owners should quickly establish authority.

• Not used to other breeds: Greyhounds are born and raised around people and other greyhounds only. They may become confused or frightened by other dogs, and may need to get accustomed to cats.

• No fat, little hair: No dog should be left outside in the cold or heat. Greyhounds are especially sensitive to extreme temperatures and rain.

• Sweet affection: They do not bite; they show affection by licking, leaning and rubbing, much like cats.

Although there is a well-known and dedicated effort to find homes for aged-out greyhounds, Cannon said there is only one way to fix the racing industry - it must be ended. There are several national and international groups trying to put a stop to greyhound racing and gambling, including the Humane Society, and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. Until then, Cannon hopes these gentle dogs find homes.

"When you adopt a needy canine, you won't find a better companion," he says," whether you bring home a greyhound, a mystery mixed-breed or a purebred Labrador."

About Irvin Cannon

Irvin Cannon was a poor kid growing up in Detroit when his family took in a stray dog. It surprised young Irvin that his father would be willing to share the family's meager groceries with a dog, but he soon discovered the return on their investment was enormous. A former police officer in Detroit and Denver, he also worked as a corrections officer.

DES MOINES, IA (05/08/2012)(readMedia)-- State Treasurer Michael L. Fitzgerald hosted five Iowa College Student Body Representatives in his office to join a call with President Obama regarding the potential interest rate hike for student loans. Public officials and students across the country joined together to support the President in his efforts to keep the student loan interest rates from doubling on July 1st.

Treasurer Fitzgerald invited student leaders from colleges across Iowa to participate in the discussion. The following students were able to join him on the call: Justin Meyers, Grandview College in Des Moines; Greg Ellingson, Central College in Pella; Jordan Bancroft-Smithe, the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls; Jared Knight, Iowa State University in Ames; and David Karaz, Drake University in Des Moines.

"It is great to have students actively involved in this conversation," Fitzgerald stated after the call. "Students need to use their voices to encourage their Congress Members to act. I am proud to have such high quality students here in Iowa representing all Iowa students."

President Obama urged the students on the call to get involved and ask Congress to act. "I need your help," the President explained.

"It's really great that President Obama took the time to talk with us and many other student, municipal and state leaders about the potential impending doubling of federally subsidized student loan interest rates. Here in Iowa, especially with the current "Brain Drain," it is imperative to the future of Iowa's economy that interest rates stay as low as possible. Iowa college and university students are leaving school with the highest levels of debt in the nation. If interest rates were to double, more students will be forced to leave Iowa in order to pay off those loans."- Jordan Bancroft-Smithe, Student Body President, University of Northern Iowa

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Rock Island, IL/May 4, 2012 - Stepping up to the marketing platform, the Quad City's "Mr. Voice" has joined forces with the region's only 8(a) SDB marketing firm.  Rick Davis joins the Media Link team as an Account Manager and will develop and manage new accounts.

Rick says, "I have worn many hats under the media and communications umbrella. My experience has given me a unique understanding for the time, production and placement of creative and promotional materials. I am delighted and excited to be working with Media Link because I am a "team first" person that enjoys being a resource and asset for others. I'm looking forward to my position as an Account Manager, because building new professional relationships and rekindling current ones is something I strongly value. Providing strategic, creative solutions for our clientele is something that's within my wheelhouse!"

Rick's career prior to Media Link afforded him an extraordinary perspective in the media and communication realm. With his extensive understanding and professionally trained eye for producing effective promotional vehicles, Rick has used his gift for many businesses, including the Quad City's own ComedySportz, where Rick became known as "Mr. Voice". As a sales and marketing director, Rick Davis was responsible for brand promotion through advertising mediums and clientele associations. He worked his magic to grow the customer-base by 25% over four years and launched creative outside sales initiatives. Rick's talent for thinking outside, around and all over the box does not stop there. He earned the Gold ADDY Award for some of his writing and directing of advertising. Rick's creative background has afforded him the opportunity to create media projects for many Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, small businesses, and non-profit organizations. Rick shines when he is performing professionally as talent for voice-over and on camera projects including radio and television ads, interactive web sites and exhibits, training videos, and corporate promotional videos. Even as Rick joins the Media Link team he still follows his passion for community involvement and building professional relationships by lending his talents to various organizations throughout the Quad Cities. Rick attended Black Hawk College in Moline, IL and Illinois State University in Normal, IL, where he found his true love...Avanti's Gondola sandwiches.

"We are so lucky to have someone with Rick's talent in our area and we are so excited to have him on our team", says Natalie Linville-Mass, President of Media Link.  "He has done some amazing work over the years and will definitely give the companies we work with a real edge on their marketing efforts."

Media Link is a full-service integrated marketing firm specializing in strategic media buying and placement. Media Link works with businesses in the Quad-Cities and around the country to develop and execute customized marketing strategies to help them more effectively reach their customers. Media Link recently developed and launched its own media buying software system.  This company is also one of the only marketing firms in the region to have obtained an 8(a) SDB certification, a designation of significance to clients who contract with the federal government.

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Opening Ceremonies Bring More than 3,000 Athletes to Soldier Field

CHICAGO - May 8, 2012. Governor Pat Quinn today welcomed Special Olympics Spring Games athletes to Solider Field, the birthplace of the Special Olympics. The opening ceremonies will kick off three days of track and field events for more than 3,000 athletes. At the event, Governor Quinn emphasized his commitment to improve life for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities in Illinois and protect special education by repairing the pension and Medicaid systems this year.

"We are so proud of our Special Olympics athletes, who have helped make America a better country with their competitive spirit and talents," Governor Quinn said. "All people should feel they can reach their potential in Illinois. That's why we will continue to increase community care options for people with disabilities and we will take the necessary steps to protect funding for special education."

Governor Quinn recently proposed bold plans to stabilize Illinois' pension and Medicaid systems to preserve funding for programs such as special education. After decades of fiscal mismanagement, the Governor's plans protect special education by repairing the pension and Medicaid systems this year by making the two programs sustainable - alleviating pressures on other areas of the budget, such as education and public safety.

Last month, the Governor received the Arc of Illinois 2012 President's Award for his leadership to improve life for people with developmental disabilities by rebalancing Illinois' approach to providing care. In November, Governor Quinn announced his commitment to rebalance Illinois' use of institutionalization for the care of people with developmental disabilities. Illinois lags behind the rest of the nation in the utilization of person-centered, community-based care. Community-based care has been proven to empower people with developmental disabilities to lead more active, dynamic lives.

The rebalancing initiative calls for a "person-centered approach," meaning individuals and their families will be a significant part of designing the program that best fits their needs and desires. Working with parents and guardians, individuals will be evaluated to determine their needs, desires and the best community care setting. As a result of the governor's rebalancing initiative, people with developmental disabilities are in the process of transitioning into community settings over the next two years.

The first Special Olympics Games were held at Soldier Field on July 20, 1968, with 1,000 athletes from the United States and Canada competing in aquatics and athletics. The city of Chicago, Chicago Park District, and the Eunice and the Joseph P. Kennedy Foundation launched the now-renowned program 44 years ago. More than 5,000 registered Special Olympics athletes live in the city of Chicago and there are more than 20,000 athletes in Illinois. Special Olympics training and competition programs are offered in more than 180 countries with more than 3.7 million athletes.

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The Oak Ridge Boys, with one of the most distinctive and recognizable sounds in the music industry, will perform at the Adler Theatre on Saturday, June 23. 
You are invited to purchase your tickets before the general public beginning today at 10:00 a.m. through Thursday, May 10 at 10:00 p.m. Click on the orange "Find Tickets" button below and enter the password ELVIRA.  Tickets, priced at $23.50, $31.50 & $37.50 (plus applicable fees), will go on sale Friday, May 11 at 10:00 a.m.
Every time they step before an audience, the Oaks bring over three decades of charted singles to bear on a stage show widely acknowledged as among the most exciting anywhere.

The Oak Ridge Boys
Saturday, June 23; 7:30 pm
Adler Theatre

Pre-Sale
Tuesday, May 8; 10:00 am - Thursday, May 10; 10:00 pm
Amana - If you have not already ordered your 2012 season ticket packages to The Old Creamery Theatre, better hurry! Season ticket packages are only available until June 1, 2012. Call the box office or visit the web site for money saving season package options
800-35-AMANA (362-6262) or www.oldcreamery.com

The Old Creamery Theatre Company is a not-for-profit professional theatre founded in 1971 in Garrison, Iowa. For a complete list of our 2012 season offerings, call us or go online.
In April, the last two-bedroom apartment at The Taylor Renaissance was leased, bringing a close to the renovation and rebirth of the historic Taylor School. Lease-up began last May and 41 of Davenport's finest senior citizens have chosen the old school as their home. This 55+ community has created quality affordable apartments for QC seniors, and the successful preservation has had a huge impact on the neighborhood. It's bound to serve as an impetus to more development in the Taylor Heights community.

Construction has now begun at Taylor's sister property, The Jackson Renaissance, also in Davenport. Jackson School will, like Taylor School, be brought back to life to serve QC seasoned citizens.

Representing the second historic renovation by Chicago-based The Renaissance Companies, this 55+ apartment rental will have 48 one- and two-bedroom apartments. Ten percent of the apartments will be market rate and the remaining apartments will be affordable for persons below sixty-percent of the area's median income. One-bedroom rents will range from $385-$595 and $625-$765 for two-bedrooms. Occupancy is scheduled for May, 2013.

Funding for this project was providing by JP Morgan Chase, Iowa Finance Authority, City of Davenport, National Equity Fund and the Scott County Housing Council.

Seniors seeking the best at affordable prices should call 563/323-0901 or visit www.therenaissancecompanies.com.

Des Moines Register

By Jennifer Jacobs

May 8th, 2012

 

Those who know Bruce Braley well say one of his defining personality traits is doggedness. The former trial lawyer follows projects from start to finish, and staffers say he insists they do the same.

 

Braley's name is bandied about as a future U.S. Senate candidate (to replace Democrat Tom Harkin if he chooses not to run again in 2014, or to replace Republican Chuck Grassley, who is up for re-election in 2016).

 

"I think Braley is a rising star in the Democratic Party," said state Rep. Clel Baudler, R-Greenfield. "I believe he has shown some common sense in picking his fights. He doesn't run off willy-nilly at the head."

 

A panel of eight Iowa and Washington-based journalists organized by The Des Moines Register ranked Braley fourth in effectiveness out of Iowa's seven congressmen. That placed the three-term Braley above two colleagues with more seniority in the House ? Republican Steve King and Democrat Leonard Boswell ? as well as Dave Loebsack, who was elected at the same time as Braley.

 

Braley got off to a fast start in proposing and steering passage of legislation during his first two terms, when Democrats were in power. That's tougher this term, now that he's in the minority.

 

One accomplishment that Braley points to when he was part of the majority is reforming the way Medicare pays Iowa doctors, who have historically seen lower payments from Medicare than doctors in larger states. Iowans in Congress had sought to change the formula for years. At 3 a.m. on a Saturday in 2010, after hours of negotiations with Democratic leaders over the health care reform law, he helped secure an agreement to change the payment structure.

 

His staff noted practical accomplishments to benefit his district. When the 2008 floods washed out a bridge over the Cedar River in Waterloo that the Iowa Northern short-line railroad company used to carry goods, the rail cars had to make a 300-mile detour. That increased costs for manufacturers and farmers. Braley successfully pushed for money to repair rail lines knocked out by natural disasters. The railroad bridge reopened in late 2009.

 

Braley is also into plain talk. Lawmakers have made numerous attempts over the years to require the government to write forms and documents in easy-to-understand language, but Braley's bill, the Plain Writing Act, was signed into law by President Barack Obama in 2010.

 

He helped secure a tax credit for small businesses that hired unemployed workers. In Iowa, the credit assisted in the hiring of 104,000 people through the end of 2010, his aides said.

 

Braley ranks 87th in the lineup of the National Journal's most liberal to least liberal members of the House. He is more liberal than 80 percent of the House on social issues and 84 percent on foreign issues, according to the Journal analysis of votes cast in 2011.

 

Braley, whose father fought on Iwo Jima, champions veterans issues, and he has a remarkably good working relationship with Republicans on the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, congressional insiders said. For example, Braley and a freshman Republican from Indiana did two field hearings last fall, one in Iowa and one in Indiana, on unemployment among veterans.

 

To help disabled veterans retrofit their homes, Braley co-sponsored a bill to expand a grant program. He worked with U.S. House Speaker John Boehner to help win House approval of the Andrew Connolly Veterans Housing Act in 2011. The proposal is now stuck in the Senate.

 

Meanwhile, to keep in touch with Iowans, Braley does a conference call with Iowa reporters on Wednesday mornings and sent out 278 news releases in 2011. He has visited every county in the 1st District in the past 12 months.

 

"He just does everything that he could possibly do. He has been fantastic," said Pat Sass, chairwoman of the Black Hawk County Democrats. "You couldn't find anyone that's more active."

SCOTT EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION CENTER (SECC) BOARD
Board Room, 1st Floor, Scott County Administrative Center,
600 West Fourth Street, Davenport, Iowa
May 10, 2012 at 6:00 p.m.

Roll Call: Gallagher, Gluba, Lehman, O'Boyle, Sunderbruch
Ex officio members: Bruemmer, Frederiksen, Malin, and Ploehn

  1. Pledge of Allegiance
  2. Approval of Minutes
  3. Approval to purchase from Nelson Systems Inc an upgrade/installation package for the Back Up 911 Recording System in the amount of $12, 697.00. (Brian)
  4. Approval to purchase from Racom Communications an upgrade/installation package for the Back Up 911 Radio System in the amount of $50,886.51. (Brian)
  5. Approval to purchase from CenturyLink an upgrade/installation package for the Back Up 911 Phone System in the amount of $98,671.68. (Brian)
  6. Director's report
  7. Presentation by New World Systems
  8. Next meeting date - May 31, 2012 at 5:30 p.m.
  9. Adjourn

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