15 Nov 2011

FBI Whistleblower Claims Process Broken, One Case Has Languished Nine Years

By Grassley Press
WASHINGTON - Senator Chuck Grassley is questioning Attorney General Eric Holder and Deputy Attorney General James Cole regarding their commitment to FBI whistleblowers while one case continues to languish for nine years and a second case sits in limbo for more than four years.

"Whistleblowers are key to unlocking many of the secrets hidden deep in the closets of the federal government.  Allowing a case to sit in limbo for more than nine years shows a lack of commitment to resolving issues for these courageous people," Grassley said.  "The excessive time to make a judgment on these cases indicates that the process for adjudicating FBI whistleblower claims is broken, and needs to be fixed.  The Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General have significant say over the speed at which these matters are addressed, and the recent decision by Deputy Attorney General Cole to remand a nine year old case for further proceedings is mind boggling and calls into question his commitment to help support whistleblowers."

In a letter today to the Attorney General, Grassley cited Agent Jane Turner who in 2002 filed a whistleblower complaint with the Justice Department Inspector General after discovering that FBI agents removed items from Ground Zero following the attacks of 9/11.  Due to the Inspector General's delayed decision, Agent Turner was forced to file an appeal with the Office of Attorney Recruitment and Management, which ordered the FBI to issue back pay, attorney's fees and other relief.  After an FBI appeal, the Deputy Attorney General remanded the case for further proceedings and it now continues to languish nine years after Agent Turner's original complaint.

Grassley also cited the case of Robert Kobus, a 30-year non-agent employee of the FBI who more than four years ago disclosed time and attendance fraud by FBI agents.  The Inspector General substantiated his claims of retaliation for protected whistleblowing, yet his case has been sitting with the Office of Attorney Recruitment and Management for four years.

Grassley noted that both the Attorney General and the Deputy Attorney General have testified before Congress that whistleblower retaliation will not be tolerated and that they would work to ensure that safeguards are in place so that whistleblowers are provided all the protections afforded by the law.

A long-time advocate for whistleblowers, in addition to co-authoring the 1989 whistleblower protection law and subsequent updates, Grassley sponsored changes made in 1986 to the President Lincoln-era federal False Claims Act to empower private sector whistleblowers.  Since the 1986 amendments were signed into law, the False Claims Act has brought back more than $27 billion to the federal treasury, and has deterred even more fraudulent activity. In 2009, in coordination with Senator Patrick Leahy, Grassley worked to pass legislation to shore up whistleblower protections in the False Claims Act that had been eroded by the courts after years of litigation by defense and healthcare contractors.

Grassley is also the author of legislation that would give the same whistleblower protections to employees in the legislative branch as provided already to employees of the executive branch of government.  In addition, in October, a Grassley-sponsored amendment to give whistleblower protection to employees in the Judicial Branch was added to a federal judgeships bill that was being debated in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

A copy of the text of the letter can be found here.  A signed copy can be found by clicking here.

 

November 14, 2011

Via Electronic Transmission

 

The Honorable Eric H. Holder

Attorney General

U.S. Department of Justice

950 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC 20530

 

Dear Attorney General Holder:

I write to express my concerns regarding the perpetual delays for resolving Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) whistleblower cases at the Department of Justice (DOJ).  As you are well aware, I am a long-standing advocate for whistleblower rights.  Whistleblowers point out fraud, waste, and abuse when no one else will, and they do so while risking their professional careers.  Whistleblowers have played a critical role in exposing failed government operations such as Operation Fast and Furious, and retaliation against whistleblowers should never be tolerated.  Thus, I am concerned about the treatment of whistleblowers at the FBI, specifically in the cases of Jane Turner and Robert Kobus.  The process of resolving whistleblower claims appears to be broken.

Jane Turner was a career FBI agent with an outstanding record for conducting investigations involving missing and exploited children.  Agent Turner filed a whistleblower complaint with the Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General (OIG), in 2002 when she discovered that FBI agents removed items from Ground Zero following the terrorist attacks of 9/11.  Unfortunately, Agent Turner was forced to file an appeal to the Office of Attorney Recruitment and Management (OARM) due to the OIG's delayed decision in their investigation.  Ultimately, the OARM substantiated her allegations in May, 2010, and the FBI was ordered to provide Agent Turner back pay, attorney's fees, and other relief.  It is my understanding that the FBI filed an appeal to the Deputy Attorney General concerning the issue of back pay, despite the FBI's failure to raise the issue of back pay during previous OARM proceedings, and the case was remanded, in part, back to OARM for further review of the back pay issue.  Consequently, a final resolution to Jane Turner's reprisal case against the FBI is now further delayed by the Deputy Attorney General's curious decision.  Given the already excessive delays in this case, the ruling by the Deputy Attorney General postpones a judgment that should have come much sooner.  I remind you that Agent Turner initially filed her complaint approximately 9 years ago, and she has yet to receive a final decision.  Any reasonable person would agree that 9 years is extreme and unacceptable.

Robert Kobus is a 30 year non-agent employee of the FBI who disclosed time and attendance fraud by FBI agents.  The OIG also conducted an investigation into these allegations and substantiated that he was retaliated against for protected whistleblowing.  The FBI management not only demoted Mr. Kobus to a non-supervisory position, but they even went so far as to move him from his office to a cubicle on the vacant 24th floor of the FBI's office building.  Nevertheless, the OIG's findings were referred to OARM for adjudication and Mr. Kobus' case has now languished in bureaucratic red tape for approximately 4 years.

I'm confident you would agree that a cumulative 13 years is an excessive amount of time to complete two whistleblower investigations.  You previously stated during your testimony to the Senate Judiciary Committee that you will "ensure that people are given the opportunity to blow the whistle and they will not be retaliated against, and then to hold accountable anybody who would attempt to do that."[1]  You also stated that, "I have seen their [whistleblowers'] utility, their worth, and, frankly, the amount of money that they return to the Federal Government.  And they serve a very, very useful purpose."[2] The Deputy Attorney General, in his responses to congressional "Questions for the Record", asserted he would "work with the Judiciary Committee and the independent Office of Special Counsel, which investigates and prosecutes violation of law, including reprisals against whistleblowers, to provide timely and accurate information to the Congress."[3] He further pledged he would "not tolerate unlawful retaliation against any Department of Justice employee, including FBI employees" and he would "work to ensure that there are adequate safeguards so that whistleblowers receive all of the protections to which they are entitled by law."[4] I would ask that you honor these statements and ensure these cases, and others like them, are investigated and decided in a reasonable timeframe.

Given your previously stated support for whistleblowers, I presume that you would agree that DOJ is sending the wrong message to whistleblowers by taking an inordinate amount of time to issue final declarations for Agent Turner and Mr. Kobus.  The excessive time the OARM has taken to issue a final judgment, which is further exacerbated by the Deputy Attorney General's recent decision in Agent Turner's case, has cast your department in a dubious light regarding your stated support for whistleblowers.  These excessive delays indicate that the process of adjudicating a FBI whistleblower claim is broken.  Consequently, I ask that you review these matters and ensure that the OARM and the Deputy Attorney General conduct their respective reviews in a transparent and expeditious manner.  While I appreciate that allegations of fraud, waste, and abuse must be properly investigated, Agent Turner and Mr. Kobus deserve transparency in the process and finality to their cases.

Thank you for your cooperation and attention to this important matter.  I request you provide a written response to this letter no later than November 18, 2011.

Sincerely,

Charles E. Grassley

Ranking Member

15 Nov 2011

Festival of Wreaths

By Lynn Bartenhagen
The Friends of the Muscatine Art Center will hold their annual Festival of Wreaths: A Holiday Salon on Saturday, November 19 from 5:30 to 8PM. The Muscatine Art Center will be decked out in holiday finery and visitors will enjoy appetizers and refreshments catered by Geneva Country Club, live music by Troy Harris and the opportunity to bid on unique holiday items contributed by area businesses.

New this year is an artist's salon featuring the work of local talent including: JoAnn Allbee, Ann Moody, Jon Fasanelli-Cawelti, Tony Ledtje, Kenda Kistenmacher, Virginia Cooper and Cindy Alt, Whitney Carino-Marek and Nancy Prawdzik-Steinbach.

The Friends of the Muscatine Art Center received a $4000 matching grant from the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine so each dollar spent the evening of the Festival will be doubled.  All proceeds benefit the Muscatine Art Center's education programs throughout the year, giving more than 3,500 students the opportunity to experience the visual arts through student tours, artist receptions, class scholarships, a college internship and the talented staff who make it all happen.

Tickets are available for purchase now at the Muscatine Art Center and at the door. Ticket prices are $20 for members of the Friends of the Muscatine Art Center and $25 for non-members. Ticket price includes appetizers, a drink ticket for a beverage of your choice, live entertainment and the opportunity to support arts education at the Muscatine Art Center.

For more information call the Art Center office at (563) 263-8282.

 

15 Nov 2011

The Cain Connection: Your Weekly Campaign Update

By Friends of Herman Cain
Dear Cain Connection Reader,
Although the mainstream media and political rivals tried once again to derail the Cain Train this week, the American people did not buy it?as evidenced by recent polls and financial support. 

Herman recently told a group of supporters that nothing will discourage him nor sway him from the mission at hand, "I have turned around large companies and survived stage four cancer - nothing can stop me. We are not on a campaign trail but on a campaign journey - a mission to renew America." 

Enthusiasm and support for Herman's vision for America is spreading like wildfire. Your support is essential in helping him share his message about renewing America with real leadership and common sense solutions. Please help us continue to take Herman's message to every voter in our great country by donating now.

Thank you for your support,
Friends of Herman Cain

 

Herman In The News

Herman Leads Republican Field in Two National Polls

In USA Today/Gallup survey released this week, Herman now ties Gov. Romney as the leader for the GOP presidential nomination in a poll of likely Republican voters conducted Nov. 2-6. Herman now polls at 21 percent, a 3 percent increase from early October. Herman continues to lead in the CBS News Poll with 18 percent, according to the national survey released Friday.

Rasmussen Reports: Herman Leads in Florida

Herman is leading the Republican field in Florida with 30 percent, six percent higher than his nearest challenger, according to the first survey by Rasmussen Reports of likely Republican primary voters in Florida. Herman Cain has been consistently leading the Republican pack in Florida since he won the Florida straw poll in September.

Herman Leads GOP Poll in Three Critical Swing States

Herman leads the Republican field in three important swing states according to Quinnipiac University's first "Swing State Poll" of the 2012 campaign cycle.

Herman polls first among GOP voters in Florida, with 27 percent of the vote, a six percent lead over nearest challenger, and first in Ohio, with 25 percent, a five percent lead over his nearest challenger. In Pennsylvania, Mr. Cain and Gov. Romney are tied at 17 percent.

For the past 50 years, these three states have predicted the presidential winner. Since 1960, no candidate has won the presidential election without carrying at least two of these states.

"My message of real solutions and real leadership continues to resonate across the country. The American people are tired of career politicians and Washington insiders. They are hungry for an authentic candidate," said Herman, "I appreciate the vote of confidence from the voters of Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania and I deeply appreciate all of the support my campaign is receiving from every state in our great country."

Please consider donating today to keep Herman Cain in the lead. Your donations will help us to spread his message to more voters and keep the momentum going!

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

Herman Meets With Dr. Henry Kissinger

Herman had the pleasure and honor of meeting with former Secretary of State, Dr. Henry Kissinger at Kissinger's home on Nov. 3 in New York City. The gentlemen discussed the campaign and foreign policy issues facing America.

Herman Cain's breakfast meeting with Dr. Kissinger

Rochester Debate: Herman Carries the Crowd, Reasserts Economic Plan

Herman received uproarious applause at the ninth debate for Republican presidential contenders at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan Nov. 9. Herman confronted questions about leadership and character head-on, saying, "Over the last nine days the voters have voted with their dollars and they are saying they don't care about the character assassination - they care about leadership and getting this economy going and all of the other problems we face."

The debate discussion went to Herman first for his perspective on Italy and the global economic crisis. Herman said "We must grow this economy...as long as we are stagnant in terms of growth and GDP, we impact the rest of the world... we (must) put some fuel in the engine that drives economic growth which is the business sector. This administration has done nothing but put stuff in the caboose and it's not moving this economy."

The audience booed debate moderators for dredging up allegations from the last week against Herman. Directly addressing questions, Herman responded strongly: "The American people deserve better than someone being tried in the court of public opinion based on unfounded accusations," Cain continued, "I value my character and integrity more than anything else and for every one person that comes forward with a false accusation, there are thousands who would say none of that sort of activity ever came from Herman Cain."

The crowd cheered when questioners steered the debate back to the economy, which led to Herman reiterating his plan to save the US economy: "Uncertainty is what's killing this economy...we (need to) throw out the tax code and put in something bold. Get government out of the way by reducing the regulatory environment."

Herman said he would support the repeal of Dodd-Frank legislation and suggested that government intervention is not the solution to turn around the economy, "The government has no business trying to pick winners and losers...whether through the front door with legislation or through back door through regulation." Herman reiterated that he would work with politicians from both sides of the aisle with the peoples' support, saying, "Provide a compelling solution, and if the (American people) understand it, they will demand it."
Herman Cain Shows Foreign Policy Depth in Spartanburg Debate

Herman continued his rise in national polls leading into Saturday evening's CBS/National Journal Republican Presidential Debate, in which Herman said President Obama has been on the wrong side of nearly every situation in the Arab world since taking office.

For the second time in debates this week, the first question went to Herman, this time concerning Iran's effort to develop a nuclear weapon. Herman asserted, "The first thing I would do is to assist the opposition movement in Iran that is trying to overthrow the regime. Our enemies are not the people of Iran - it's the regime...We need to put economic pressure on Iran by way of our own energy independence strategy."

Throughout the debate, Herman touched on his foreign policy philosophy - peace through strength and clarity - an expansion of President Reagan's foreign policy, peace through strength. 

When asked by the moderator about the complex U.S.-Pakistan relationship, Herman said it is not clear if Pakistan is a friend or a foe: "...that relationship must be evaluated...We need a regional strategy in that area of the world such that all of our allies will work together to come up with things that are mutually beneficial to everyone."

Responding to an email question on advanced interrogation methods and torture, Herman said, "I believe in following the procedures that have been established by our military. I do not agree with torture. Period. However, I will trust the judgment of our military leaders to determine what is torture and what is not torture."

In order to keep America safe, Herman said he would support the continued use of Guantanamo Bay and use military courts to try the terrorism suspects and enemy combatants who are held there as part of his national security plan. 

A Note from Herman: The Iowa Fund is a Huge Success Thanks to You!

When we launched the Iowa Fund last week, many people did not believe we could reach our goal of $999,000 in seven days, but they were wrong. Not only did we reach the goal, we exceeded it more than 24 hours early! Our total is now over $1.2 million dollars and still climbing.

Together, we have sent a message...A message to the media, the political establishment, and the rest of the American people. We will not go along with politics as usual. We will not keep quiet. Many seek to destroy our efforts. Many have said that our campaign cannot possibly remain on top.

I need you to spread the word about the Iowa Fund. If you haven't had a chance to contribute- now is the time! If you have, would you consider donating again and inviting your friends to do the same? Let's show the naysayers that we will not be stopped!

Herman Cain
New Cain Video Features Alveda King and Opportunity Zones in Detroit

Herman's latest campaign video features him in the city of Detroit, the very face of destructive liberal economics, presenting his vision of turning poverty-stricken communities into thriving Opportunity Zones as part of his bold "9-9-9 Plan."

The new video focuses on a desperate city, hungry for jobs, commerce, and true hope; Herman lays out specific plans for returning Detroit to a pinnacle of industrial achievement.

In this video, respected author and conservative activist, Dr. Alveda King, niece of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., lends her support for Herman's vision for economic renewal.

You can see the video on the Herman Cain Youtube Channel.
Networks Mention Cain Story 50 Times in Less Than Four Days; Ignored Clinton Scandals

In the past two weeks, the mainstream media attempted to tell the American people who they should vote for with their shabby journalism and an insatiable appetite for gossip. Click here to read Media Research Center's analysis of clearly biased journalism against Herman.

Source: Media Research Center

Are you tired of the mainstream media's attempts to tell you who you should vote for? Help Herman fight back against the media and political establishment with your donation.

In Case You Missed It...

Herman Cain in Michigan on Obama: 'Beat him with a Cain!' - Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/election-2012/post/herman-cain-in-michigan-on-obama-beat-him-with-a-cain/2011/11/10/gIQAUsHy8M_blog.html

Herman Cain at Kalamazoo Visit: "I didn't go to political correctness school" - WKZO Radio
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCEhaMFWjJs

Cain Jumps to 7-Point Lead Over Romney - Fox News
http://nation.foxnews.com/herman-cain/2011/11/02/cain-jumps-7-point-lead-over-romney

Cain was Known for Casual Style with Staff at Association - Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/cain-was-known-for-casual-style-with-staff-at-association/2011/11/10/gIQAdRBy9M_story.html

Politico's smear campaign against Herman Cain sputters, derails - Examiner
http://www.examiner.com/political-buzz-in-fayetteville/politico-s-smear-campaign-against-herman-cain-sputters-derails

Investigator: Herman Cain Innocent of Sexual Advances - CBS Atlanta
http://www.cbsatlanta.com/story/16002149/investigator-herman-cain-innocent-of-sexual-advances

A Fresh Face, a Bold Message, and a Choice - Ms. Jenny Stanford
http://www.thestate.com/2011/11/03/2032525/sanford-a-fresh-face-a-bold-message.html

Tune into Herman

This week Herman is scheduled to appear on the following media outlets...

  • CBS's "Late Show with David Letterman" - Thursday, Nov. 17 11:35pm EST/10:35pm CST

Cain Campaign Clock

Number of Days Until First Primary - Iowa Caucus (January 3, 2012): 52
Number of Days Until Super Tuesday (March 6, 2012): 115
Number of Days Until Presidential Election (November 6, 2012): 360

Don't Let Time Run Out - Donate Today - Herman Cain is Counting on You!

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15 Nov 2011

Ron Paul National Campaign Chairman Blasts CBS News

By Ron Paul 2012 PCC

SPARTANBURG, S.C. - Ron Paul 2012 National Campaign Chairman Jesse Benton released the following statement concerning the CBS / National Journal Republican debate:

"Ron Paul consistently polls among the top three in the key early voting states of Iowa and New Hampshire.  He is polling in double digits in most respected polls.

"Congressman Paul is ranked among the top three in fundraising results.

"Congressman Paul serves on the House Foreign Relations Committee.

"Congressman Paul is a veteran.

"And, Congressman Paul has contrasting views on foreign policy that many Americans find worthy of inquiry and discussion.

"CBS's treatment of Congressman Paul is disgraceful, especially given that tonight's debate centered on foreign policy and national security.

"Congressman Paul was only allocated 90 seconds of speaking in one televised hour.  If we are to have an authentic national conversation on issues such as security and defense, we can and must do better to ensure that all voices are heard.

"CBS News, in their arrogance, may think they can choose the next president. Fortunately, the people of Iowa, New Hampshire, and across America get to vote and not the media elites."

15 Nov 2011

New Cain Video Pays Tribute to American Veterans

By Friends of Herman Cain
Paying tribute to America's veterans, Presidential hopeful Herman Cain teams up with highly decorated Colonel Michael Steele to offer a powerful and moving message to the men, women, and families of our armed services.

Colonel Steele was the company commander of the Third Battalion 75th Ranger Regiment, during Operation Gothic Serpent, the basis for the book and subsequent movie, "Blackhawk Down."

Veterans Day is celebrated on November 11th, the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I, formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.

From the Berlin Wall to Mogadishu to Iraq, Colonel Steele has served his country well, and Herman Cain is honored to have a friendship with a man so respected and decorated as the Colonel. Please join us in honoring our proud and heroic Veterans on this and every day.

Thank-you and God bless all our servicemen and women, and God bless America.

You can see the video on the Herman Cain YouTube channel.
15 Nov 2011

Coast Guard, DHS honors veterans

By Eugene M. O'Berry

Photograph of Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Jane Holl Lute, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp (right) and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt (left) take part in a Coast Guard Veteran's Day wreath laying ceremony at the Coast Guard Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery Nov. 11, 2011.

ARLINGTON, Va., - Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Jane Holl Lute, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp (right) and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt (left) take part in a Coast Guard Veteran's Day wreath laying ceremony at the Coast Guard Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery Nov. 11, 2011. All three spoke about the importance of the day and thanked veterans for their service. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

 

Photograph of Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Jane Holl Lute, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp (right) and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt (left) take part in a Coast Guard Veteran's Day wreath laying ceremony at the Coast Guard Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery Nov. 11, 2011.

ARLINGTON, Va., - Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Jane Holl Lute, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp (right) and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt (left) take part in a Coast Guard Veteran's Day wreath laying ceremony at the Coast Guard Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery Nov. 11, 2011. All three spoke about the importance of the day and thanked veterans for their service. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

 

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Coast Guard honored veterans of the service during a wreath-laying ceremony Friday held at the Coast Guard World War I Memorial,  Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va.

Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, Jane Holl Lute, joined Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt in the Veterans Day, wreath-laying ceremony.  The Coast Guard Ceremonial Honor Guard and the Coast Guard Ceremonial Band also participated in the event.

"The Department of Homeland Security is fortunate to have the brave men and women of the United States Coast Guard protecting our coastline and maritime interests around the world," said Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Jane Holl Lute. "They carry on the great tradition of those who have served in defense of our freedom. As a former member of the U.S. Army, it is an honor to remember the Coast Guardsmen who lost their lives in World War I, and to recognize the service and sacrifice of all of our Veterans."

"Our Nation has always had absolute confidence in, [the fact] that our citizens will step forward during our greatest hour of need, to selflessly defend our freedoms, and when necessary, to lay their lives on the altar of patriotism," said Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp. "This willingness embodies the essence of service...and what it truly means to be called a veteran."

The Coast Guard monument at Arlington National Cemetery was dedicated May 23, 1928 as a tribute to the Coast Guardsmen who lost their lives in World War I. The monument is inscribed with the names of Coast Guardsmen who were killed during the war. The southeast side is dedicated to the Coast Guard Cutter Tampa, sunk by an enemy submarine in Bristol Channel Sept. 26, 1918. The northwest side is dedicated to the Coast Guard Cutter Seneca, which lost 11 Coast Guardsmen while salvaging the torpedoed British Steamer Wellington in the Bay of Biscay Sept. 17, 1918. The architect was George Howe and the sculptor was Gaston Lachaise.

Six cutters were sent to Europe for convoy duty while smaller cutters patrolled the U.S. Coast Guard during World War 1. Coast Guardsmen were also integrated into Navy commands and Coast Guard officers commanded several Navy air stations and ships.

15 Nov 2011

The 9th. Amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America

By Narveen Aryaputri

Independent Scholars Evenings

The 9th Amendment  of the Constitution of  the United States of  America

The 9th Amendment states that the people will retain all of the rights they had at the time of the signing  of the                     Constitution of the United States of America.

Open discussion lead

By

Robert Stanley.

Independent Scholar.

at

The Moline Commercial Club

1530 Fifth Avenue.  Moline. Illinois.

7.00 p.m.

second floor of

The Moline Club

1530 Fifth Ave. Moline.

309-762-8547 for the Moline Club

309-762-9202 for The Institute.


light refreshments, wine and beverages are served.

The event is free and open to the public.

doors open at 6.30

Independent Scholars' Evenings are sponsored by

The Institute for Cultural and Healing Traditions, Ltd. a 501(c)3 at state and federal level since 1996.

www.qcinstitute.org
Reply
Reply to all
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15 Nov 2011

IOWA FARM BUREAU SEMINAR FOCUSES ON FARM TAX PLANNING

By Iowa Farm Bureau

Seminar available at multiple ICN locations around the state

WEST DES MOINES, IOWA - Nov. 11, 2011 -  As farming price levels and costs continue to climb, farmers can learn more about tax planning at the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation's (IFBF) tax seminar. The 2011 Iowa Farm Tax Seminar will be held Tuesday, Nov. 22, from 7 to 9 p.m. It will be carried on the Iowa Telecommunications Network (ICN) and is free to the public.

"This annual seminar is a proven way for farmers and others interested in farm tax planning to get up-to-date information that is valuable for tax season preparation," said Ed Kordick, IFBF commodity services manager.

The seminar will feature Roger McEowen from the Center for Agricultural Law and Taxation at Iowa State University and Charles Brown of AgriFinancial Services, LLC. During the webinar, participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and view visuals.

The seminar can be viewed at these ICN locations: Ames High School, Ames; South Winneshiek High School, Calmar; Kirkwood Community College, Room 104 in Washington Hall, Cedar Rapids; North Iowa Area Community College, Buettner Careers Building, Room 118, Mason City;  and Northwest Iowa Community College, Building D, Room #402; Sheldon.

If you have questions on the webinar, contact Kordick at ekordick@ifbf.org or 515-225-5433. The seminar will be recorded and available at the IFBF website, www.iowafarmbureau.com, the next day for members only to view the information on their farm/home computer.

-30-

15 Nov 2011

AARP, Mediacom Announce Prime Time Broadcast of AARP's 2012 GOP Presidential Candidates Video Voters' Guide

By Garry Lee Wright

WHO-TV's Dave Price Moderates One-on-One Conversations with the Candidates on the Economic and Health Issues 

 

Nov. 11, 2011- Des Moines, Iowa - AARP and Mediacom today announce broadcast of the AARP 2012 GOP Presidential candidates Video Voters' Guide featuring Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Speaker Newt Gingrich, Congressman Ron Paul and Governor Rick Perry in one-on-one, unedited conversations with WHO-TV13 political reporter Dave Price on Sunday, Nov. 13 from 6-7:30 p.m. on MC22.  The program will be rebroadcast on MC22 at 2 pm on Monday, Nov. 14, and will be available at www.aarp.org/YouEarnedIt and on Mediacom On Demand regularly until the Iowa Caucuses on Jan. 3.

"AARP is pleased to bring a focus on these issues critical to Iowa caucus goers," said AARP Iowa State Director Kent Sovern.  "We appreciate the candidates' attention to ensuring that concerns of older Iowans around the economy and jobs, retirement security, Medicare and Social Security are addressed during this Presidential campaign season."

"We're proud to use our Mediacom network to provide information that is timely and relevant, particularly as Iowans evaluate candidates and issues that affect policies in our state and nation," said Mediacom Senior Vice President Ed Pardini.  "The caucuses give Iowans a unique role, and voters who want to be better informed can watch these interviews to gain a valuable perspective."

Participating candidates met a 5 percent or higher polling threshold as of the invitation date.  Candidates Governor Mitt Romney and former CEO Herman Cain were invited but declined to participate.

The interviews lead off with on the top issue on the minds of Republican caucus and primary voters - jobs and the economy.  Each candidate addresses what will they do to put Americans back to work; how they will make retirement more secure; what they will do to ensure that the Social Security and Medicare benefits Americans have earned remain strong, and finally, if elected President, what will be their top priority?

The live-to-tape candidate conversations were recorded at Mediacom studios in Des Moines on Friday, Nov. 4.  In addition to weekly telecasts on MC22, digital cable users can tune-in and view the Video Voters' Guide at any time using Mediacom's OnDemand content.  The free program can be found at Channel 1 (OnDemand) in the "My Government" section.  Viewers can fast-forward, rewind or pause to focus attention on specific candidates or the topics each addresses during his or her segment.

For more than 25 years, AARP has been engaged in non-partisan voter education activities. AARP does not have a political action committee and does not endorse candidates or contribute to their campaigns.  AARP's voter education activities are designed to encourage members and the general public to exercise their constitutional right to vote and to highlight the issues that affect Americans age 50+ and their families with the Presidential candidates and their campaigns.

For more information on AARP voter education activities and to view AARP's 2012 GOP Presidential candidates Video Voters' Guide 24-7, visit www.aarp.org/youearnedit.

# # #

About AARP

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. We produce AARP The Magazine, published bimonthly; AARP Bulletin, our monthly newspaper; AARP Segunda Juventud, our bimonthly magazine in Spanish and English; NRTA Live & Learn, our quarterly newsletter for 50 + educators; and our website, www.aarp.org. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We have staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

15 Nov 2011

Governor Quinn Honors Illinois Veterans

By Andrew Mason
Attends Memorial Ceremonies in Chicago, Rock Island and Marseilles

CHICAGO - November 11, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn celebrated Veterans Day by honoring Illinois Veterans and servicemembers at four memorial ceremonies across the state. Governor Quinn unveiled the Portrait of Soldier Memorial exhibit at Loyola University's Water Tower Campus and in Moline. He also attended the City of Chicago Veterans Day event and the dedication of the Fallen Soldiers Tree Memorial at Illini State Park in Marsellies.

"Today we honor the servicemen and servicewomen who have selflessly given their all to protect this country," Governor Quinn said. "On behalf of the state of Illinois, I salute and thank all of those courageous and heroic individuals who were willing to risk everything to protect our democracy."

The Portrait of a Soldier Memorial exhibit in Chicago, which has been viewed by thousands of people throughout Illinois, is a series of hand-drawn portraits of more than 250 Illinois men and women who have died in service to our country since Sept. 11, 2001. Governor Quinn founded the display to honor Veterans in 2004, when artist Cameron Schilling of Mattoon drew the first portrait of a soldier in August of that year, after Army Spc. Charles Neeley, also of Mattoon, was killed in Iraq. Schilling presented the portrait to Spc. Neely's parents. In Oct. 2005, while a student at Eastern Illinois University, Schilling committed to draw a portrait of every Illinois servicemember who has fallen during the Global War on Terror.

Also in Chicago, Governor Quinn attended a ceremony at Soldier Field to honor Veterans from all branches of the Armed Forces. The event included performances by the 85th Army Band and the U.S. Naval Academy Gospel Choir, and culminated with the placing of a wreath at the Doughboy statue, a 21-gun salute and Taps.

Governor Quinn also visited the Fallen Soldier Tree Memorial at Illini State Park. The tree memorial is dedicated to the men and women from Illinois who have died in Afghanistan or Iraq and spans two and a half acres. There are more than 200 oak trees planted for each Illinois servicemember who lost their life. This living memorial, where fallen US Armed Forces personnel can be honored in a peaceful, serene environment, was spearheaded by Illinois Department of Transportation's Sustainable Practices Manager, Steve Massey.

"Under Governor Quinn's leadership, Illinois will continue to be a state that honors and protects those courageous men and women who serve our country," said Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs Director Erica Borggren.

Governor Quinn has a long history and continued dedication to supporting US Veterans. When Governor Quinn served as Illinois State Treasurer, he launched "Operation Homefront" during the Gulf War as a means to inform National Guard members and reservists about their rights under the Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act. "Operation Homefront" has currently expanded to assist servicemembers and Veterans from all branches of the military.

Throughout his life, Governor Quinn has led a number of programs that benefit Illinois' Veterans servicemembers and their families. Just this year:

•       In August, Governor Quinn signed legislation to expand Illinois' Let Them Rest in Peace Act. The new law prohibits protests within 300 feet of a funeral site and ensures that no protest can take place within 30 minutes before and after a funeral or memorial service; and

•       In October, Governor Quinn and the Illinois Department of Employment security announced a series of job fairs across the state to help put Veterans back to work. These job fairs took place in October and November, during the week leading up to Veterans Day Weekend.

•       In July, Governor Quinn signed three bills to provide more protections for Illinois' servicemembers and help injured Veterans get the services they need. These bills prevent Illinois utilities from cutting off heat to Veterans and servicemembers during the winter months; extend the driver's license renewal time for servicemembers returning from overseas or out-of state; and create a fund to support public service announcements to increase awareness of Veterans' programs;

For more information about programs for our Veterans, visit www.operationhomefront.org or call the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs at 217-782-6641 or 312-814-2460.

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