21 Feb 2012

Braley Statement on House Passage of Yearlong Middle Class Tax Cut Extension

By Jeff Giertz

Braley supports Republican bill to extend tax cut

Washington, DC - Rep. Bruce Braley (IA-01) released the following statement after voting to support a Republican-written bill to extend the middle class payroll tax cut for a full year:

"The middle class tax cut extension passed today will keep $1,000 in the pocket of the average Iowa family.  Extending the tax cut for the rest of the year is a common sense step that will help strengthen the momentum of the economy.

 

"I'm disappointed that Speaker Boehner brought the tax cut up for a vote without finding a way to pay for it.  I've now voted twice for bills that would extend the middle class tax cut without adding to the deficit.  I wish I could have vote that way a third time.

 

"I'm encouraged that partisan politics didn't stop this tax cut extension from getting done.  Congress now must immediately turn its focus to working in a bipartisan way on other measures to help create jobs and grow the economy."

Braley has consistently worked across party lines to pass a yearlong middle class tax cut extension.  In December, he was one of only 10 Democrats to support a Republican bill to couple a yearlong extension of the middle class tax cut with other provisions.  Later that month, Braley also supported the compromise Senate bill that extended the middle class tax cut for two months.

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21 Feb 2012

Schilling Statement on House Passage of Economic Relief Agreement

By Andie Pivarunas

Washington, DC - Congressman Bobby Schilling (IL-17) released the following statement after the House today passed the payroll tax cut conference agreement: a package that extends the payroll tax holiday, blocks a major pay cut to physicians that treat Medicare patients, and includes reforms of unemployment benefits - all through the end of 2012.  Schilling, who supported a 12-month extension in December, again voted in supported of the extension of benefits.

"In December, the House of Representatives passed a responsible, bipartisan package to protect American workers and job creators from tax increases for a full year, provide for a two-year extension of the Medicare 'doc fix,' and extend and reform the Unemployment Insurance Program.  If I could have had my way, that package would have become law," Schilling said. 

"But we control one-half of one-third of the federal government.  We don't control the Senate or the White House - we don't control Washington.  Government still must govern, even if it is divided.  So although I would have preferred to avoid the uncertainty of the last two months, December's two-month extension was better than nothing.  I am grateful the President and the Senate have finally agreed to the certainty today's full-year extension provides.

"Today marks three years since the president's failed near- trillion dollar stimulus package was enacted, and my vote today is a compromise in the name of economic relief.  We have a responsibility to help folks in the short term with the passage of this package, and we have a responsibility to continue our focus on long-term, pro-growth economic policies to help businesses create jobs.  The House has passed more than 25 jobs bills that would help Americans get paychecks, not unemployment checks.  I urge the president and the Senate to work with us in enacting measures that will create long-term private sector jobs."

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21 Feb 2012

CWA: Reps. Braley and Loebsack Stand with Iowa's Working Families, Refuse to Give in to GOP Union-Busting Extremism on FAA Bill

By Rick Martin

WASHINGTON D.C. -The Communications Workers of America (CWA) today announced their thanks to Reps. Braley and Loebsack for not yielding to extremists' union busting demands by standing up for Iowa's working families and voting against the FAA Reauthorization bill and its damaging impact on working families.

Despite the efforts of Reps. Braley and Loebsack, the FAA legislation passed both chambers of Congress last week.  CWA members had been engaged for over a year in the fight for the passage of a clean FAA bill, calling for FAA legislation that would advance the important infrastructure and modernization components, but not include unrelated and unfair provisions dealing with union organizing and elections.  However, a backroom "compromise" in name only moved the legislation forward while including completely unrelated provisions damaging to union elections and working families in Iowa and throughout the country.

Now that the legislation has passed, CWA members and allies are reaching out to their members of Congress to thank them, or to express their displeasure at their vote.  CWA members in Iowa and across the nation will make sure their voices are heard by visiting district offices, sending letters, and making phone calls directly to their members of Congress.

Unfortunately, the FAA legislation creates new roadblocks for employees seeking union representation, takes away secret ballot rights, increases the threshold needed to call for a union election, makes collective bargaining more difficult, and limits the safeguards provided by the National Mediation Board (NMB). It also sets a dangerous precedent for those who prefer to hold critical transportation jobs and projects hostage rather than allow democracy on the job.

The bill passed despite strong opposition by organized labor.  Eighteen international unions, representing over 10 million members, signed a letter calling for passage of a clean FAA Reauthorization bill and the United Steelworkers, Service Employees International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) and National Education Association sent individual letters of opposition to Congress.

CWA also released a full-page ad in the Washington paper POLITICO noting that Reps. Braley and Loebsack were two of 157 House members and 15 Senators who stood with workers and said no to the egregious union-busting in the FAA bill.

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21 Feb 2012

USB Sets Sights On Ways to Provide More Profit Opportunities For U.S. Soybean Farmers

By United Soybean Board
EVENT
USB SETS SIGHTS ON WAYS TO PROVIDE MORE PROFIT OPPORTUNITIES FOR U.S. SOYBEAN FARMERS

The United Soybean Board (USB) will hold its next meeting Feb. 21-24 in Biloxi, Miss., to measure progress on soy-checkoff-funded efforts to increase demand for U.S. soy and strategize on new ones that can help keep U.S. soybean farmers profitable. The 69 farmer-directors have four objectives for the U.S. soy research and promotion program:  increase the value of U.S. soybean meal and oil; ensure U.S. soybean farmers have the freedom and transportation infrastructure to operate; and meet the changing needs of U.S. soy customers.

USB welcomes all members of the media to attend the open sessions, beginning at 8:00 a.m. on Feb. 21. A copy of the full meeting agenda is available upon request.
DATES
Feb. 21-24, 2012, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Central
LOCATION Beau Rivage
875 Beach Boulevard
Biloxi, MS 39530

If you would like to preschedule an interview or cannot attend and would like to schedule a phone interview, please call Erin Hamm at (888) 235-4332 or e-mail your request to hamme@osborn-barr.com.
ON-SITE CONTACT
Erin Hamm with USB Communications, (314) 412-6982
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21 Feb 2012

UI Heart and Vascular Center first in Iowa to provide new heart valve treatment

By Hawkeye Caucus

Leaders of University of Iowa Heart and Vascular Center have reported that their heart valve team has treated half a dozen patients with a new, cutting-edge treatment for seriously ill patients affected by severe heart valve problems.

The new technology uses a catheter inserted through a small incision in a patient's thigh that travels through blood vessels and can be used to replace a person's failing heart valve in the aortic artery.

The technology is reserved for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are considered too high risk for traditional forms of heart valve replacement surgery, or were previously considered inoperable.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the treatment, called the SAPIEN percutaneous heart valve replacement, manufactured by Edwards LifeSciences.

DID YOU KNOW?
In October 2011, the UI Heart and Vascular Center became the first program in the nation to receive certification for its cardiac valve program from The Joint Commission, the accreditation agency for health care organizations in the United States.

FYI
In addition to the new transcatheter procedure, the center's heart valve clinic, established more than three years ago, offers minimally invasive surgery for heart valve repair and replacement. For more information, call 319-384-6245 or visit online at www.uihealthcare.org/heart.

Helping Iowa entrepreneurs get a leg up

Lots of people come up with ideas for new businesses.  Finding the money to get them off the ground is the tough part.

To help those would-be Iowa entrepreneurs, the University of Iowa's John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC) offers workshops and contests to assist students, faculty and staff hone their elevator pitch and business plan writing skills. These abilities are vital in successfully securing start-up money from financiers and venture capitalists.

Each year, JPEC sponsors or co-sponsors six competitions that provide training and practice. They could obtain seed money, too, as competition winners can receive anywhere from $500 to $25,000 in start-up capital.

For more information on JPEC's contests, visit: http://www.iowajpec.org/business/competitions.cfm

DID YOU KNOW?
JPEC's Bedell Entrepreneurship Learning Laboratory is an on-campus incubator for new businesses that provides office space and learning opportunities for 29 start-ups owned by University of Iowa students.

21 Feb 2012

Local Artist, Mark Soenksen to Make Gallery Debut at Peaceful River

By Jake Glimco

McCausland, IA / February 17, 2012 - Peaceful River Trading Co. will feature the work of DeWitt, Iowa native, Mark Soenksen on Thursday, February 23rd from 4pm to 7pm at Peaceful River Trading Co. in McCausland.  Mark's show this month will be the first in a series of gallery nights hosted throughout the year by this unique McCausland shop.

Mark Soenksen expressed, "I am honored and thankful for the opportunity to exhibit my work and I appreciate all the support Peaceful River Trading Co. has given me".   Soenksen has come a long way from his childhood days of doodling on the walls of the family farm.  As a youth, he honed his creative energy by drawing his heroes from Sci-Fi stories and comic books.  His passion for art intensified as he grew older, leading him to enroll in as many art classes as he could in high school.  Mark later attended Iowa State University and graduated in 1994 with majors in Drawing, Painting and Print Making and a minor in Sociology.  Since then, Mark has explored his zeal for painting by focusing on the human figure, usually incorporating Sci-Fi themes into his work. He also enjoys drawing his family farm.

"Mark just needed a little push to start selling his work and we are glad to help.  We are so excited to have a place for local artists and crafters to display and sell their beautiful and creative work!  We look forward to promoting local artists throughout the year," says Peaceful River Owner, Sheila Bosworth.

Peaceful River brings visitors back to a simpler time and is housed in a beautiful, circa-1916 bank building, formerly the home of McCausland State Bank. They carry many items from arts and crafts to antiques, gifts, and collectibles. Peaceful River Trading Co. is open from 10am to 5pm Wednesday through Saturday and 11am to 4pm on Sundays.  McCausland is located about 20 miles northeast of Davenport, just off Utica Ridge Road on F33 and 5 minutes north of Scott County Park.  Explore Peaceful River Trading Co. at www.peacefulrivertradingco.com.

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21 Feb 2012

ALLEGIANT CELEBRATES INAUGURAL FLIGHT BETWEEN

By Jessica Wheeler

MOLINE/QUAD CITIES AND ORLANDO

Moline, Ill.–Allegiant (NASDAQ: ALGT) today inaugurates low-cost, nonstop flights between Moline, Ill. and Orlando, Fla. via Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). The company, known for its exceptional travel deals, will offer fares as low as $89.99* one way between the two cities, as well as offer travelers a fourth night free when they book their Orlando stay at Serlago Hotel and Suites or Best Western Orlando Gateway.

"We are pleased to expand the Allegiant brand of low-cost travel services in Moline," Andrew C. Levy, Allegiant Travel Company President, said. "Our service to Las Vegas, Phoenix-Mesa and Tampa, Fla. has been very successful, and we are confident that the residents of Moline and the Quad Cities area will appreciate flying nonstop to Orlando, as well as the value of booking hotel rooms and car rentals through us."

"We are excited for today's inaugural flight to Orlando-Sanford Airport. We know that passengers from this region truly appreciate nonstop access to their vacations," said Bruce Carter, Director of Aviation. "We started with just two cities offered by Allegiant, and are pleased to have grown to four nonstop destinations. We look forward to having our travelers use this service, and we hope to watch these flights increase in popularity just as they have for the other three cities."

Allegiant offers the only nonstop service from Quad City International Airport to Las Vegas, Phoenix-Mesa, Tampa and Orlando, Fla., as well as great deals on hotels, car rental service and attractions.

The new flights will operate twice weekly between Quad City International Airport (MLI) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), carrying as many as 150 passengers on each flight. For flight schedules and reservations please visit allegiant.com.

Located in the heart of Central Florida, Orlando is home to the world's most exciting theme parks and has plenty of shopping, dining, outdoor activities, and entertainment. Allegiant partners with more than 60 of the Orlando area's most exciting hotel properties, provides low-cost car rental service through its partnership with Alamo Rent a Car, and offers great deals on activities such as theme park tickets, dinner shows, and day tours. Moline and Quad Cities area travelers can book their entire Orlando vacation for less by visiting allegiant.com.

Allegiant, travel is our deal.

Las Vegas-based Allegiant Travel Company (NASDAQ: ALGT) is focused on linking travelers in small cities to world-class leisure destinations. Through its subsidiary, Allegiant Air, the company operates a low-cost, high-efficiency, all-jet passenger airline, and offers other travel-related products such as hotel rooms, rental cars, and attraction tickets through its website, allegiant.com. The company was ranked ninth in the 2011 Forbes' Best Small Companies. Allegiant was also recently named one of FORTUNE magazine's "100 Fastest-Growing Companies" for the second consecutive year.

About the $89.99* one-way fares:

Seats are limited. Fares are one-way and not available on all flights. Must be purchased by Feb. 26, 2012, for travel by Aug. 14, 2012. Prices include PFC, segment tax and Sept. 11th security fee of up to $10.80 per segment. A segment is one take-off and one landing. A convenience fee of $10.00 per segment, per passenger is included in the introductory one-way fare. A fee of $14.99 per segment, will apply when purchased through Allegiant call centers. Purchases made at any Allegiant Airport Ticket Office will not incur a convenience or call center fee. For ticket counter hours of operation, please visit allegiant.com. When purchased at the time of booking, a checked bag fee of up to $19.99 per bag will apply per person, per segment. If purchased at flight check-in, a fee of $35 per checked bag, per person, per segment will apply for the first two bags checked. Additional higher fees will apply for three or more checked bags. Fare rules, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Restrictions apply.

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21 Feb 2012

Blank Park Zoo releases its spring and summer lineup for 2012

By Rick Martin

DES MOINES, Iowa (February 16, 2012) - Iowa's only accredited Zoo announced today its spring and summer lineup that includes an Ice Age Mammals exhibit, the grand opening of  the new seal and sea lion pool, watusi cattle, a new entrance and park plus many new events.

 

"There will be more going on at the Zoo than ever before," said Mark Vukovich, CEO of Blank Park Zoo. "We are having a ton of events, new exhibits and of course, lots of fun. You'll want to 'Do the Zoo' many times this summer."

 

The kick-off of the season will be the grand opening of the seal & sea lion pool, the entrance and new drive and the opening of Ice Age Mammals on March 17, 2012.

 

Blank Park Zoo will also make field trips extremely affordable this spring by continuing $2 per child admission on K-12 field trips.

 

"Field trips are usually one of the first things eliminated during education budget cuts," said Vukovich. "The Zoo wanted to show our commitment to the importance of educating children about animals and conservation."

 

Here's a list of happenings at the Blank Park Zoo this spring/summer:

 

  • Ice Age Mammals- The unbelievably mild winter will be followed by a spring full of Ice! Well, artificial ice for sure. Blank Park Zoo is bringing in an Ice Age Mammals exhibit. These animatronic wonders will be chillin' it old school in the ZooPlex this spring. Experience a wooly mammoth, a smilodon family and more amazing creatures from the past. (free with regular Zoo admission, March 17 - June 10, 2012)

 

  • New Seal & Sea Lion Pool- This new $1.3 million pool is a huge improvement to the Zoo and features underwater viewing, a new observation deck, a bigger island for training demonstrations and two new seal pups. (Grand Opening March 17, 2012)

 

  • Front Entrance and Park- This new, safer entrance to Blank Park Zoo has a new sign, new pond and waterfall as well as a new shelter house, playground and picnic area for the community to enjoy. (Grand Opening March 17, 2012)

 

  • Watusi- This African longhorn cattle breed is known as the "cattle of kings" and will be sure to amaze with their impressive horns.

 

  • Japanese Macaque exhibit- The Japanese macaque exhibit needed an 'extreme exhibit makeover,' so this winter the zoo added a new mesh exhibit containment system, and a new interactive tunnel where visitors can now go into the exhibit and see the macaques up close and personal! (expected completion May 2012)

 

  • Squirrel Monkey- A new animal to Blank Park Zoo will make its home at the former clock tower circle. This South American primate will amaze you with their silly antics.

 

  • King Vulture- This central and South American bird will take up residence with the squirrel monkeys near the penguins and sea lion pool. "Long live the king vulture."

 

  • New Parakeet Feeding Area- Due to popular demand, Blank Park Zoo will be opening a permanent parakeet feeding exhibit in the David Kruidenier Australia Adventure.

 

  • Pacific Reef- As we bid farewell to the jellyfish, Blank Park Zoo has converted the circular aquarium into a northwest Pacific reef aquarium, featuring Starfish and other colorful cold water fish from the northwest.

 

  • Miniature Zebu Cattle- Joining the Kids' Kingdom contact area of the Zoo this spring will be miniature Zebu cattle that the public can feed.

 

  • Roller Pigeons- Also joining Kids' Kingdom will be a unique acrobatic pigeon called a roller pigeon.

 

  • Australia Adventure- This exhibit opened last July to popular reviews. The exhibit tells the story of Australia with an Australian Station, bouncing wallabies, emus, kookaburras, rare cassowary and more. (Now Open)

 

  • New Interactives- Thanks to John Deere Foundation, the Discovery Center and Kids' Kingdom exhibits are going to be equipped with all-new interactive displays.

 

  • Expanded Zoo Hours - Due to popular demand, Blank Park Zoo will be expanding its summer hours and opening an hour earlier every day, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m (May through September).

 

EDUCATION:

  • Ice Age Field Trip Pricing- Blank Park Zoo is continuing its reduced price of Kindergarten through grade 12 field trips for only $2. "You'll have to go back to the Ice Age to find a field trip so affordable," said Mark Vukovich, CEO. School groups that wish to participate must pre-register at www.blankparkzoo.com and be from a recognized school.

 

  • Summer Safari Day Camps, expanded all-day camps will return this summer for children ages 5-13. Half-day camps will also be available for children ages 3-6. Online registration now available at www.blankparkzoo.com.

 

  • ZooTots- Join some furry, feathery, slimy and fuzzy animal friends in an exciting, hands-on adventure. We will read books, make crafts, and eat some yummy animal snacks.  Classes are held at 9:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Ages 2-4 with an adult (Now through March 10, register at www.blankparkzoo.com)

 

  • Zoo Tots Cooking- Classes consist of exciting cooking lessons right here at the Zoo. Each week, you and your toddler will cook a treat and participate in fun activities.  These classes will be held on Fridays at 9:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Ages 2-4 with an adult (Now through March 2, register now at www.blankparkzoo.com)

 

  • ZooTunes- New to Blank Park Zoo's education lineup is ZooTunes, a music class for ages 6 mo.-2 years with an adult. Participants in this class will sing songs, play instruments, dance, join in hands-on activities, and enjoy animal visitors.  Adults will be actively involved in the class, helping to engage the young children in music.  Classes will be held alternating Wednesdays at 9:15 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 6:00 p.m. and are about 30-45 min. in length.  (Now through February 29, register now at www.blankparkzoo.com)

 

  • Zoodlers! is a drop off class for children 3-5 years of age. Children will attend every Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/ Thursday for 4 weeks. Classes will be held from March 12-April 12 from 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.  During Zoodlers!, children will participate in fun games and crafts, explore the Zoo, read a story, have a snack and meet an animal friend!  Zoodlers! is a great way to get ready for pre-school and spend some time at the Blank Park Zoo! Children must be potty trained.

 

EVENTS:

  • Eggstravaganza- Kicking off Blank Park Zoo's 2012 event season is "Eggstravaganza." Children of all ages embark on a safari Easter egg hunt. Some of the animals will participate in an egg hunt of their own. Photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny will be available. (April 7, 2012)

  • Adventure Days- This summer families will enjoy added education, activities and different themes during nine Saturdays at Adventure Days at Blank Park Zoo. Themes include Latino culture, gardening and conservation, life in the Ice Age and more.

  • Zoo Brew returns with even more fun evenings every Wednesday this June, July & August. Each 21-and-over event will feature beer or wine sampling, live music and, of course, all of the animals at Blank Park Zoo. The event is FREE with paid Zoo Admission and free to Blank Park Zoo Members. 

  • Jack Hanna Returns - Join Blank Park Zoo for a special evening with America's favorite zookeeper at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center at Veterans Memorial. Tickets start at $100 with proceeds benefiting the non-profit Blank Park Zoo and can be purchased now at www.blankparkzoo.com. Presented by Nationwide Insurance.

  • Gators on the Green- Help Blank Park Zoo continue its mission of conservation, education and recreation by participating in this new golf tournament. After all, where else in Iowa can you golf while viewing 'real' alligators on the green! (Wakonda Country Club, May 21, 2012, $300 single, $1,200 foursome, $2,000 foursome with hole sponsorship).

  • Pit Bulls, Parrots & Primates- Blank Park Zoo is excited to announce three conservation events in 2012 in cooperation with the Animal Rescue League of Iowa! The evening events include the sold out Tia Torres talk (March 2, 2012), Dr. Irene Pepperberg (April 6, 2012) will talk about her work with grey parrots and Dr. Herbert Covert (May 4, 2012) will talk about his work with Asian primates.

 

  • Facebook Fan Night- This night will allow our loyal Facebook fans to have the Zoo to themselves for a few hours. This exclusive event will feature some fun behind-the-scenes activities and unique opportunities. (June 7, 2012)

 

  • Run for the Wild: The Tortoise Trot- Lace up your shoes for a one-of-a-kind run through Blank Park Zoo which will include a 5k race and a 1 mile fun fun. This year's run will honor the Aldabra Tortoises, two of which will be celebrating birthday number 5-0. (June 16, 2012)

 

  • Say I Do at the Zoo Bridal Show - Blank Park Zoo is inviting soon-to-be brides to meet dozens of vendors in the wedding industry. The ZooPlex will be set up with vendor booths including DJs, local cake shops, dress boutiques, photographers, and more! Blank Park Zoo will be featured as the location venue. Johnny's Italian Streakhouse will provide food samples. (July 22, 2012)

 

  • Zoobilation- The gala is making a comeback at Blank Park Zoo in 2012. Whether you enjoy the Zoo for the animals, education or conservation, this event will allow you to support your favorite aspect while enjoying cocktails, food stations and fun entertainment. (Friday, September 21, 2012)

 

  • Campout at the Zoo- This outdoor overnight adventure will be an unforgettable night with Blank Park Zoo's animals. Enjoy the Zoo after hours to see animal behaviors you may not have seen before, plus campfire stories, s'mores, interact with the Zoo's small animal friends and more! (October 5, 2012)

 

  • Night Eyes- Everyone's favorite trick-or-treat event returns this October for its 22 straight year of "merry not scary" fun. Over 500,000 treats will be passed out at the number-one family Halloween event.

 

  • Santa at the Zoo- This international celebrity is rumored to make another appearance at Blank Park Zoo with a couple of his reindeer friends. Plus, watch animals open some of their early presents they have been waiting for all year long! (December 8 & 15, 2012)

 

MEMBERSHIP

  • Blank Park Zoo, Living History Farms & Science Center of Iowa Tri Membership Pass- This is the seventh anniversary of when three great Iowa non-profits combined forces to offer a unique pass for the greatest attractions around. For only $219, you and your family can experience the fun and excitement of all these attractions for a whole year.

 

  • Blank Park Zoo Membership - The $89 Blank Park Zoo family member pass will be the best value to return for each of the Zoo's new attractions. In addition to free, year-round admittance to the Blank Park Zoo and free or discounted admission to 160 other Zoos, this year members will receive one free train ride and bring one additional guest for free (one guest per family) on "Member Mondays" and free admission to Zoo Brew and Adventure Days.

 

RENTALS

  • Group Safari Packages- Blank Park Zoo is perfect for family reunions, company picnics and meetings, group outings and more. Enjoy all the animals and activities the Zoo has to offer at a reduced cost. Ask about our special group tours and meal packages.

 

  • Birthday Parties- The best place to take the kids is now the wildest place for a birthday party. Check out www.blankparkzoo.com for details.

 

OPPORTUNITIES

  • 'Wild' Summer Jobs- Look for our summer job fair announcement during spring break. Positions include cashiers, train driver, retail, camp instructors, exhibit interpreters and seasonal keepers.

 

  • Volunteers- Volunteers work in many areas of the Zoo including horticulture, exhibit interpretation, Kids' Kingdom, events and more. Visit www.blankparkzoo.com for more information.

 

 

About Blank Park Zoo

Blank Park Zoo, Iowa's WILDEST Adventure, will be open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. this winter. Winter admission rates are $7 for adults, $3 for children under 12, and $5 for seniors and active military. Children two years and under and Blank Park Zoo members are free. The Zoo is located at 7401 SW 9th St., Des Moines, IA 50315. Visit the Zoo online at http://www.blankparkzoo.com. The Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) The AZA is America's leading accrediting organization that sets rigorous, professional standards for zoos and aquariums. The AZA is building North America's largest wildlife conservation movement by engaging and inspiring the 143 million annual visitors to its member institutions and their communities to care about and take action to help protect wildlife.

 

 

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21 Feb 2012

U.S., China Sign Plan of Strategic Cooperation in Agriculture

By USDA Communications

Des Moines, Iowa, Feb. 16, 2012–Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and China's Minister of Agriculture Han Changfu today signed an historic Plan of Strategic Cooperation that will guide the two countries' agricultural relationship for the next 5 years. The plan was signed as part of the U.S.-China Agricultural Symposium held today at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates. The symposium focused on bilateral cooperation in the areas of food safety, food security and sustainable agriculture, as well as enhanced business relationships between the two countries.

 

"This symposium and plan are a product of a vision I share with my dear old friend Minister Han for the United States and China to work more collaboratively in the future to benefit our nations and agriculture around the world," Vilsack said.

 

"This plan builds on the already strong relationship our nations enjoy around agricultural science, trade, and education. It looks to deepen our cooperation through technical exchange and to strengthen coordination in priority areas like animal and plant health and disease, food security, sustainable agriculture, genetic resources, agricultural markets and trade, and biotechnology and other emerging technologies," he added.

 

Xi Jinping, China's vice president, opened the symposium and stressed the importance China places on supporting farmers and rural development, as well as on food security.

 

"China attaches great importance to food security, and ensuring a sufficient food supply for 1.3 billion people," Xi said.

 

In the 2011 fiscal year, China became the top market for U.S. agricultural goods, purchasing $20 billion in U.S. agricultural exports. The value of U.S. farm exports to China supported more than 160,000 American jobs in 2011, on and off the farm across a variety of sectors.

 

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21 Feb 2012

Lt. Governor Simon to support strip club tax

By Kathryn Phillips

CHICAGO - Lt. Governor Sheila Simon, Sen. Toi Hutchinson and women's advocates will support an entrance fee on strip clubs to raise money for rape crisis centers and violence prevention.

DATE: Friday, February 17

TIME: 1:45 p.m.

PLACE: Blue Room, 15th floor, Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph St., Chicago

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