Nine Iowa Women of Innovation were honored last Thursday evening by the Technology Association of Iowa at the Hy-Vee Conference Center in West Des Moines.  Honorees included entrepreneurs, executives, college professors, and two students who each received $2,500 scholarships.  Betty Griffin, Curriculum and Instruction Specialist for Davenport Community Schools, and Pavane Gorrepati, senior at Rivermont Collegiate in Bettendorf, were among the nine winners.

The Iowa Women of Innovation awards celebrate female leaders in science, technology, engineering, and math.  Nominations were submitted from communities across the state and finalists represented a range of backgrounds: teachers, researchers, technologists, and CEOs, among other titles.  Finalists also include high school, undergraduate, and graduate students who have demonstrated extraordinary achievements in technology.

For a complete list of finalists and winners, visit www.technologyiowa.org.

 

2011 Women of Innovation Award Winners:

Research Innovation and Leadership: Dr. Byrony Bonning, a professor at Iowa State University's department of entomology.  Bonning, a nationally and internationally recognized scholar, is the founding director of the ISU Virus-Insect Interactions Initiative.  Her research has resulted in five patents that have attracted industrial support.

Academic Innovation and Leadership in Secondary Education:  Betty Griffin, curriculum and instruction specialist in the Davenport Community Schools. Griffin brought the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) program to Davenport, and developed a PLTW summer camp for 8th grade students.  She helped create a scholarship fund to promote college credit for high school students. 

Academic Innovation and Leadership in Post-Secondary Education:  Dr. Sarah Larsen, a professor of chemistry at the University of Iowa.  Larsen's internationally-recognized research program studies nanomaterials, and has advanced the understanding of how porous particles can be used in environmental protection, catalysis, drug delivery and biomedical imaging.

Entrepreneurial Innovation and Leadership:  Dr. Jennifer Nieweg of Des Moines, co-founder of Catilin. Niewig's company develops cost-efficient catalysts for the production of bio-fuels.  Recently, Catilin merged with a multinational company, Albemarle, which develops, manufactures, and markets complex chemicals worldwide.

Non-Profit/Government Agency: Toni Tassone of the Iowa Department of Corrections.  Tassone created the Iowa Corrections Offender Network (ICON), an offender case management system. ICON's first year return on investment is estimated at $2 million.

Small Business Innovation and Leadership:  Charise Flynn, Chief Operating Officer at Dwolla, a social payment network in Des Moines.  Flynn leads a team of 20, managing the company's fast-paced growth, implementing new processes and systems, and executing the company's vision.

Large Company Innovation and Leadership:  Kristin Runyan, Chief Information Officer and Vice President of Product Management for CDS Global in Des Moines.  Runyan leads the company's vision of diversifying its business, changing company culture, and transforming technology.

Collegiate Innovation and Leadership: Chloe Dedic, a senior in mechanical engineering at Iowa State University.  Dedic studies pollutant formation in devices used for clean power generation.  Thanks in part to her work, the mechanical engineering department was recently awarded a National Science Foundation grant.

Youth Innovation and LeadershipPavane Gorrepati, a senior at Rivermont Collegiate in Bettendorf. Gorrepati is the only student there who has completed six science classes in four years.  She earned a Borlaug-Ruan International Internship and has founded "Sending Seeds Overseas," which provides seeds for farmers in third-world countries.

Note: Rivermont Collegiate senior Meghana Pagadala was also a finalist in this category.

 

For additional information on Rivermont Collegiate, contact Brittany Marietta, Director of Admissions, at (563) 359-1366 ext. 302 or marietta@rvmt.org.

 

-END-

By U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley

From Washington, we hear a lot of big numbers rolling off the tongues of politicians, policy wonks and pundits. Let's talk turkey. Trimming the fat and finding slices of savings is increasingly difficult. Ideological and political beliefs run bone-deep for many lawmakers who come to the table representing opposing points of view from different geographic regions and cross-sections of the U.S. population.

Yet there is a common thread that seems to connect the American electorate, whether we align ourselves as urban or rural; young or old; liberal or conservative. People are fed up with the way Washington works.

Years of unrestrained government spending have blown the lid off of fiscal discipline, putting America's long-term prosperity at risk. Overpromising, over-regulating and overreaching will not help America's entrepreneurs, big thinkers, farmers, small business owners and other leaders out-innovate, out-educate and out-build our competition in the 21st century.

In the U.S. Senate, I work to do right by Iowans who have entrusted me to represent the interests of our state in Washington. I keep a close eye on the three branches of the federal government to make sure no one in the bureaucracy thumbs a nose at the rule of law or breaks the trust of the taxpaying public.

Family farmers have a sun-up to sun-down work ethic borne out of necessity to get the job done. Conscientious stewardship of one's financial and natural resources are basic to a farm's long-term prosperity and requires sacrifice and commitment. Risk is a 24-hour occupational hazard. Consider on-the-job work safety, natural disasters, swings in commodity prices and farm exports dependent upon international trade agreements. Farmers shoulder a burden of risk that's largely out of their control.

In good times and in bad, farmers weather the highs and lows of cyclical markets and the whims of Mother Nature.

Putting affordable food on the table is important now more than ever. The world's population reached seven billion this fall. In times of economic uncertainty and public discontent around the world, food security is a non-negotiable standard of public policy. It's a common thread that unites all of humanity, whether urban or rural; young or old; liberal or conservative.

As Washington works to help revive the U.S. economy, I'll continue working for American agriculture.

That includes helping to make sure independent producers and beginning farmers have a level playing field to compete and capture a fair share of the consumer's food dollar; adopting reasonable caps on farm program payments; and, breathing common sense into federal regulatory regimes, such as the EPA's ridiculous effort to regulate farm dust.

During this season of Thanksgiving, Barbara and I salute the family farmers who have chosen a noble profession and way of life to earn a living. Thanks to their stewardship, America's agricultural abundance is helping to feed, clothe and fuel a growing world population 365 days a year.

Q&A on Medicare open enrollment with U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley

Q:    What does open enrollment mean for seniors?

A:    The Medicare open enrollment period for 2012 is under way.  Any enrollee who wants to change plans needs to do so by December 7, 2011.   The annual enrollment period applies to Medicare Parts A and B, which is traditional Medicare; the alternative to Medicare Parts A and B, which is Medicare Advantage; and Medicare Part D, which is the prescription drug program added to Medicare in 2003.

During open enrollment, Medicare beneficiaries don't have to make changes if they don't want or need to.  They can switch from traditional Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, move from Medicare Advantage to traditional Medicare, or switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another.  They can enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan, drop Medicare prescription drug coverage, or switch from one drug plan to another.

Helpful consumer information is available at www.Medicare.gov/find-a-plan.

Q:    What happens if plans are discontinued?

A:    Most Medicare enrollees will not need to change plans, and most enrollees whose current coverage won't be available next year - whether it's Medicare Advantage or one of the Medicare drug benefit plans - will be enrolled automatically in a new plan, as spelled out in a Notice of Change that insurers were required to send beneficiaries in October.  However, automatic re-enrollment is not always the case, so it's important to read any paperwork you receive this fall.  You may need to re-enroll yourself.

Some insurance plans make changes to prescription drug plans.  It might be higher or lower costs, or the dropping or adding of medications.  Medicare beneficiaries should examine their plans for 2012 changes.  It's important to review your options every year for both financial and health needs.

For 2012, Medicare beneficiaries have plan options that offer enhanced coverage, including zero deductibles and coverage in the gap for generic drugs.  In Iowa, there are 33 Medicare prescription drug plans available for 2012.  These plans offer additional options, such as coverage in the standard benefit's coverage gap and a deductible below the standard $310, including plans without a deductible.  For 2012, the lowest Medicare prescription drug plan available in Iowa for 2012 is $15.10 per month.  Overall, drug plans have seen a slight decrease in premiums for 2012.  I co-authored the legislation that created the Medicare prescription drug program.  Competition among insurers was built into the program design to keep costs low for enrollees, and the program has delivered consistently better-than-expected results in keeping premiums low and affordable.  Beneficiary satisfaction also is high, with 95 percent of enrollees saying their Part D plan works well, and 94 percent saying it's easy to use, in a survey conducted this year.

Q:    What kind of help is available to sort through enrollment questions?

A:    Many states, including Iowa, have set up Senior Health Insurance Information Programs.  Iowa's program provides confidential guidance to individuals, and it's free of charge.  Those who have questions about plan options or unresolved issues with plans should call the Senior Health Insurance Information Program, or SHIIP, at 1-800-351-4664.

Monday, November 21, 2011
Nationally-known Virginia farmer and Iowa farmer support Paul through a 'growing' coalition
LAKE JACKSON, Texas - The Ron Paul 2012 Presidential campaign announced today new members its "Farmers for Ron Paul" nationwide coalition formed to energize voters in America's unrivaled agricultural sector.

The new members include a nationally-known proponent of holistic farming methods, and a farmer from the key early voting state of Iowa.

"I've been a fan of Ron Paul for years, since the first day I learned about his positions.  He's the only one with enough backbone to take on the entrenched corporate-government fraternity by attacking with the power of freedom, thereby unleashing entrepreneurial dreams on the marketplace.  Currently cowering under the withering fire of guns, badges, and bureaucracy, America's home-based and back-yard innovators have plenty of antidotes to the problems that plague our culture," said Joel F. Salatin, who raises livestock using chemical-free holistic methods and co-owns with his family Polyface Farm in Swoope, Virginia. 

"Paul understands the power of bottom-up creativity.  Reducing the military, both foreign and domestic, reducing regulatory power, and reducing the penetration of prejudicial government interests in the culture is the balanced approach to restore constitutional normalcy.  Paul is the only national figure willing to go to the mat for these precious principles that will ensure tomorrow's opportunities," said Mr. Salatin.

Mr. Salatin authored eight books, including the most recent Folks, This Ain't Normal.  He was featured in the film documentary Food, Inc. and most recently in TIME magazine on October 24, 2011.  The New York Times dubbed Mr. Salatin "the high priest of the pasture" and he is often introduced as the "most famous farmer in America."

Reflecting Dr. Paul's support in the first-in-nation voting state of Iowa, farmer Kevin Wolfswinkel of Sibley, Osceola County also joined the pro-Paul farmers' coalition.

"Ron Paul and I both agree that liberty and big government cannot co-exist for very long.  Government dislikes the idea of independent minded individuals having free reign over their own lives.  At the same time agriculture is one of the few remaining bastions of freedom loving entrepreneurs, and unless a new course is charted farmers risk losing everything they and their families have spent generations working for," said Mr. Wolfswinkel, who produces corn, soybeans and pork.

"The hard work and personal sacrifice required to succeed in agriculture is at risk of being erased either by crippling regulation, the government's financial mismanagement, or a combination of both.   Ron Paul is the only presidential candidate who possesses the expertise, personal will, and integrity to begin us on the road to regaining control of our lives and livestock," added Mr. Wolfswinkel.

Messrs. Salatin and Wolfswinkel now serve on the "Farmers for Ron Paul" national advisory board.  As a first basic step, those wanting to join the "Farmers for Ron Paul"coalition should visit www.RonPaul2012.com/Farmers.

###
BBB Tips Help You Shop Smart, Online or at the Mall 

These days Black Friday deals seem to be out before the Thanksgiving turkey even gets cold; leaving many consumers overwhelmed with the pressure to buy, buy, buy.  The BBB recommends you do your research before shopping to ensure advertised deals are all they're cracked up to be.

"Some Black Friday deals may look good on the surface, but quantities may be extremely limited or the size of the discount greatly exaggerated.  Check prices at several retailers and read advertisements carefully to make an educated decision on whether it's worthwhile to stand in line or miss a good night's sleep," said Chris Coleman, BBB President/CEO. Shopping online can be a way to avoid crowded stores, but shoppers need to use extra caution when shopping on the web.

Whether you choose to buy online or at the store, be sure to:

 

  • ·  Protect your personal information. Stick to well known and trusted websites. When shopping at stores, keep your card out of sight and safe.
  • ·  If the site is secure, its address should start with https://. You also may see a picture of a small closed lock in address bar.
  • ·  Know the company's refund and return policies. Are there restocking fees? Do you have to pay shipping costs on returns?
  • ·  Do not rely on pictures of a product. Read the description and check model numbers, if applicable.
  • ·  Be cautious of free offers. Free offers are often followed by an open-ended enrollment in a program that automatically bills your credit card account. Before ordering anything online, make sure you click on and read all terms and conditions.
  • ·  Pay with a credit card rather than a debit card. If you suspect fraud or don't receive your order, credit cards afford the best protection in the event of a dispute.
  • ·  Obtain a tracking number for all shipments.
  • ·  Print out the orders and keep receipts.
  • ·  Be aware of phishing. Don't respond to emails that ask for your credit card or bank account number or other personal information. Legitimate businesses do not send emails claiming there is a problem with an order or account.  Call the company or find the customer service form on the company website to confirm any problem.
Check a company's BBB Business Review before you do business with a company or charity by going to www.bbb.org or by calling 800-222-1600. For more advice you can trust from your BBB, visit www.iowa.bbb.org.

The Quad Cities Comic Book Convention will be held on Saturday December 3 at the Ramada Inn in Bettendorf, IA. The Ramada Inn is located at 3020 Utica Rd (I-74 @ Kimberly Rd / Spruce Hills Dr, IA Exit 2). It will be open to the public from 10 AM to 4 PM and admission for the public is free. Dealers from three states specializing in comic books new and old, toys and related. Or if you have old comics lying around that you no longer want bring them by dealers are buying.

For further information contact Alan at (309) 657-1599 or visit www.epguides.com/comics.

For months, Braley has pushed veterans hiring tax credit; bill sitting on President Obama's desk

 

Washington, DC - This morning, Rep. Bruce Braley (IA-01) will hold an event at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Cedar Rapids to discuss the Wounded Warrior and Returning Heroes tax credits passed by the US House last week.  President Obama is expected to sign the bill into law as early as this week.

Braley will be joined at the event by veterans and officials with Alliant Energy.

In response to high unemployment rates for veterans, in August, Braley introduced the Combat Veterans Back to Work Act, a precursor to the House-passed bill that provides a payroll tax break for businesses who hire a current member of the National Guard or Reserve or any unemployed veteran who has returned from deployment within the last 18 months.

In October, Braley hosted a House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity field hearing in Waterloo to focus on veterans' unemployment.  Braley is the highest ranking Democrat on that subcommittee.

TODAY, Monday, November 21st, 2011

 

10:00am in the Lobby of the Veterans Memorial Building, 50 - 2nd  Ave., Cedar Rapids, Iowa

# # #

SPRINGFIELD, IL (11/20/2011)(readMedia)-- The Department of Defense announced today the death of an active duty Soldier from Moline Ill., who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Pfc. Adam E. Dobereiner, 21, died Nov. 18 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Dobereiner was assigned to the 8th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade based at Fort Hood, Texas.

The Illinois National Guard is supporting the active component as well as providing military support to the Dobereiner family. 

The Dobereiner family will not address the media and will not be granting media access to the services to follow.

[MAQUOKETA, IA] Maquoketa Art Experience announces their first annual fundraiser, Building Community Through Art on Friday, December 2, 5-7 p.m. at Maquoketa Art Experience, 124 S. Main St. in Maquoketa. The evening includes special guest speaker, Figge Art Museum Curator Rima Girnius and a special exhibition of select portraits from artist Rose Frantzen's collection, Portrait of Maquoketa will be on display. The fundraiser also includes a silent auction, appetizers, and a group exhibition including the work of Iowa artists Thomas Metcalf, Sindi Mueller, Charles Morris, Dena Tollefson, and Mary Zeran.

Tickets are $25 per person. All proceeds benefit the growth of Maquoketa Art Experience, a not-for-profit arts organization that is working to build community in Maquoketa through visual arts exploration. For more information contact visit www.maquoketa-art.org. or call Paula Neuhaus at 563.652.9925.

# ##

You are cordially invited, in fact highly encouraged if not guilt tripped to attend an open house and art sale at Leslie Bell's studio the first weekend of December. After 38 years in the St. Ambrose University Art Department (he's never gone home; not even once) the aforementioned Mr. Bell is retiring from fulltime teaching (to part time), hoping that his money doesn't run out before he goes to heaven. He's also desirous of getting rid of some pretty awesome art because he's been told time and time again, "You can't take it with you". And anyway, he's against renting a U-haul.

Have you always wanted to buy a painting, drawing, photograph, lithograph, intaglio, Xerox, thumbprint, used car or choice piece of beachfront property from Professor Bell? You're in luck. There will be hundreds and hundreds and several more hundreds of just such  things stacked and leaning about, waiting for you to snatch them up at record-low prices. He will not be driving his funny car nor will there be a radio DJ yelling at you in a politically incorrect manner about his mental health. The sales, however, will be insane by all accounts and since the artist himself is writing this diatribe, all accounts are coming straight from the horse's mouth.

OK. The particulars:

WHERE:  Studio House aka Les's studio?1918 Gaines Street, Davenport Iowa: the first livable structure north of Locust Street, west side of Gaines Street. There's a big parking lot at Locust and Gaines by the way. 50' from the front door! Call 563-639-4555 if you need more incentive to attend.

WHEN:  Thursday - December 1: 4?6 p.m.
              Friday - December 2: 4?6 p.m.
              Saturday - December 3: 1?3 p.m.

HOW:  If you're coming in from Illinois?Govt. bridge north to 1918 Gaines. If you're from outer space, it's the third stone from the sun. Follow the Mississippi River up from the Gulf of Mexico and stop when you see all the cars and bicycles and people dressed in black, smiling.

WHO:  Anyone brave enough to talk an artist out of a portion of his loot and willing to have a glass of faux Champagne and gawk at the pretty pitchers. And pictures.

WHY:  It's a chance to gain the status only MFA-generated art can bring to a household, dorm room, crash pad or Occupy SAU tent.

ENDING:  See you then and there.

Pages