11 Oct 2011

Putting America's Wind Power on the Grid

By Rick Martin

By Johnathan Hladik, johnathanh@cfra.org, Center for Rural Affairs

Here at the Center for Rural Affairs we talk a lot about clean energy transmission. We've long recognized that improved transmission infrastructure is the key to job creation and economic development, in rural and urban communities alike.

Fortunately, others do too. Last week the Obama administration announced a plan to fast-track the approval of much-needed electric transmission lines. This follows the creation of two USDA Rural Development loan programs designed to improve transmission facilities in rural areas.

What does this mean for rural residents? It means that now is the time to become engaged. Each proposed line offers an opportunity for you to become involved almost every step of the way.

Before a project moves forward, the developer will look for input from the community. Each will hold educational meetings and open house events to share information and better understand your needs.  Objectives will be discussed, as will route estimations.

Next, most states require the developer to demonstrate project need, and to prove the project is in the public interest.  This determination is made by a state regulatory agency, most often the public service commission or a variation thereof.

Finally it will be time to determine the route. This offers yet another opportunity to weigh in and submit comments to your state regulatory agency. Your concerns will be taken into account and influence the final determination.

To get you started, we've created a transmission map. Visit http://www.cfra.org/clean-energy-transmission-map to find projects in your area and learn more about those affecting you.

11 Oct 2011

Gramma's Kitchen Awarded "Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin" in Iowa

By Rick Martin

Iowa Pork Producers will present restaurant with award on Wed. 10/12 at 11:45AM

Gramma's Kitchen selected the winner of IPPA's Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Contest for 2011.

Gramma's Kitchen in Walcott has received this year's honor from IPPA for its breaded pork tenderloin sandwich and will receive a check for $500 and a plaque. The eatery is located near the World's Largest Truck Stop on Interstate 80 at the Walcott exit.

Gramma's Kitchen has been in business since 1980 and serves about 150 tenderloin sandwiches per week. The loins are bought from Reinhart  Foodservice and are tenderized and battered at the restaurant.

"We are absolutely excited about winning this award and it's so great that we are receiving such accolades for all of our hard work that we have put in these last several years," said Aaron Tuftee, one of the managers of Gramma's Kitchen.

Country House in Colo placed second and will receive a plaque and $250 from IPPA. Legal Limit Pub & Grill in Boone, The Rusty Duck in Dexter, and Newton's Paradise Café in Waterloo received honorable mention awards and each will receive a plaque.

Joe Golinghorst from Walcott nominated Gramma's Kitchen and will receive $100.

A total of 327 nominations were submitted for this year's contest and 34 received the required three or more nominations and became finalists. Judging by committee members was completed last month. The committee judges the pork tenderloin sandwiches on taste, physical characteristics and appearance.

All restaurants, cafes and taverns that serve breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches can be nominated for the award each year. Previous contest winners also are eligible, but are prohibited from winning two consecutive years.

Gramma's Kitchen is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is a member of the Heart of America group. You can find them on the web at www.heartofamericagroup.com. Gramma's Kitchen also has a Facebook page.
11 Oct 2011

Central College Representatives at area high schools

By readMedia

PELLA, (10/10/2011)(readMedia)-- A Central College admissions representative will soon be visiting area high schools. All students are invited to visit the representative in the schools' counseling centers to learn more about Central.

Admissions counselor Jessica Steward will visit Alleman High School at 9 a.m. on Thursday, October 20.

Admissions counselor Brynn Phillips will visit Durant High School at 2 p.m. on Monday, November 7.

Admissions counselor Brynn Phillips will visit Mid-Prairie High School at 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday, November 8.

Central College is a private, four-year, residential, liberal arts college in Pella, Iowa. Central's academic program offers 39 majors leading to a bachelor's degree along with pre-professional programs and advising. Central was recognized in the 2010 U.S.News & World Report's annual rankings of the best liberal arts colleges in the nation. Central's study abroad program was included in the programs to look for section.

More information about Central College is available at www.central.edu or by calling 877-462-3687.

11 Oct 2011

Senior Coffee to be held at Vander Veer Botanical Park

By Ron Summers

Are you looking for a beautiful way to spend a Wednesday morning? Join Davenport Parks and Recreation at the Conservatory in Vander Veer Botanical park for our Senior Coffee. This informal program is designed to encourage senior citizens to visit the warmth of the conservatory during the colder months and enjoy the color and fragrance of beautiful flowers.

On October 12, participants will be able to enjoy the Fall Color Show from 10 am - Noon. The cost for the program is $1 and each participant will have the opportunity to experience the sights, sounds and fragrances of the colorful and vibrant plants.

Preregistration is not required, for further information, please call, 326-7812.

11 Oct 2011

Governor Quinn Opens First Chicago Ideas Week

By Katelyn Tye

Proclaims "Ideas Week" in Illinois to Support Innovation

CHICAGO - October 10, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today opened the first-ever Chicago Ideas Week conference and proclaimed this week "Ideas Week" in Illinois. Chicago Ideas Week is a seven-day celebration of ideas, innovation and community, that will focus on bringing the world's best speakers together with the Midwest's best thinkers. Today's event follows Governor Quinn's launch of a program last week to give Illinois entrepreneurs access to $78 million in capital for new and innovative business ideas.

"Illinois is proud to be home to some of the brightest minds in science, technology, business and education," Governor Quinn said. "It only makes sense that the best minds in the world should come together here to develop innovative ideas and technologies that will help create the jobs of today and tomorrow to move our economy forward."

Chicago Ideas Week was founded by Brad Keywell, chair of the Illinois Innovation Council introduced this year by Governor Quinn (www.illinoisinnovation.com), and co-founder of Groupon and Lightbank. The purpose of the conference is to bring the world's leading visionaries together for collaboration and discussion that could lead to breakthroughs and new understanding of some of the world's most important issues.

"This week provides a world-class platform that is designed to showcase our state as a center of innovation and entrepreneurship," said Keywell, creator of Chicago Ideas Week. "We are thrilled by the support we've received from both the city of Chicago and Illinois state government leaders for this celebration."

The week-long celebration of ideas will take place at some of Chicago's most prominent landmarks and will feature more than 150 key figures in business, science, health, technology, journalism, the arts, sports and government. Former President Bill Clinton, Mayor Michael Bloomberg of New York City and Kasim Reed of Atlanta are among the featured speakers. For a full list of speakers and more information about each session, visit www.chicagoideas.com.

"Ideas Week" in Illinois is the latest step Governor Quinn has taken to solidify Illinois' place as the leading state in the Midwest for entrepreneurship and innovation. Last week Governor Quinn launched the Advantage Illinois program to provide Illinois businesses and entrepreneurs with access to the capital they need to start new companies and expand existing business. Advantage Illinois will leverage $78 million in federal funding that will allow businesses to bring innovative ideas and new products to market and accelerate job creation and economic growth in Illinois. Earlier this year, the Governor created the Illinois Innovation Council with the goal of keeping Illinois on the cutting-edge of the global economy.

This year Governor Quinn's leadership has been instrumental in expanding the availability of more than $150 million in investment capital through enactment of the Technology Development Account II, implementation of the Angel Investment Tax Credit and the Advantage Illinois program.

A copy of Governor Quinn's proclamation is attached.

WHEREAS,                innovation has long been a hallmark of the Illinois economy, however success in today's era requires an extensive network of support; and

 

WHEREAS                 the nature and pace of innovation have changed dramatically and our global economy is increasingly driven by our ability to find and nurture value though new products, improved processes or advanced scientific discoveries; and

 

WHEREAS,                American innovations in science and technology, fueled by public and private research investments and accelerated through entrepreneurial activity have created economic prosperity,  enhanced quality of life, and aided those who bravely provide our nation with safety and security; and

 

WHEREAS,                the Illinois Innovation Council is working to identify and advance strategies to foster and accelerate the innovation and economic growth that will create the jobs of today and tomorrow; and

 

WHEREAS,                the American Association for the Advancement of Science estimates that up to half of all economic growth in the Unites States over the past five decades is due to innovations in technology; and

 

WHEREAS,                the state's economic growth is tied to its ability to successfully execute long-range research, development and innovation projects that address challenges facing our industries and that cultivate areas of likely scientific and technological advancement; and

 

WHEREAS,                to accelerate the innovation economy in the Midwest, the Illinois Innovation Council is advancing a common platform and fostering an ecosystem through which startups, innovation-driven enterprises, service providers, research institutions, colleges, universities and civic leaders can connect, share ideas, raise capital, and access the services and resources necessary to accelerate the growth of businesses, create new industries and generate jobs; and

 

WHEREAS,                from October 10-16, 2011, Chicago Ideas Week will bring the world's top speaker together with Chicago's best thinkers to create an ecosystem of innovation, exploration, and intellectual recreation.

.

 

THEREFORE, I, Pat Quinn, Governor of the State of Illinois, do hereby do hereby proclaim October 10-16, 2011 as CHICAGO IDEAS WEEK in Illinois, and encourage everyone in the Land of Lincoln to recognize, celebrate and support the vital role that innovation plays in the in the economic future of our state.
11 Oct 2011

Local Students involved in Central College music ensembles

By Rachel Vogel

PELLA, IA (10/10/2011)(readMedia)-- The following students are participating in music ensembles at Central College:

Meghan Brophy, native of Bettendorf, Iowa, in Community Chorus, directed by Mark Babcock

Megan Querry, native of Bettendorf, Iowa, in Community Chorus, directed by Mark Babcock

Justine Jackovich, native of Eldridge, Iowa, in Symphonic Wind Ensemble, directed by Dr. Mitchell Lutch

Hannah Seibel, native of Eldridge, Iowa, in Vocal Jazz Combos, directed by Gabriel Espinosa

Ellen Korn, native of Davenport, Iowa, in Community Chorus, directed by Mark Babcock

Steven Gordon, native of Davenport, Iowa, in Community Chorus and A Cappella Choir, directed by Mark Babcock

Central College offers 18 music ensembles, ranging from the 60-voice A Cappella Choir to the Flying Pans Steel Pan Band. The music ensembles are open to music majors and non-majors alike, and several tour annually.

Central College is a private, four-year, residential, liberal arts college in Pella, Iowa. Central's academic program offers 39 majors leading to a bachelor's degree along with pre-professional programs and advising. Central was recognized in the 2011 U.S.News & World Report's annual rankings of the best liberal arts colleges in the nation.

More information about Central College is available at www.central.edu or by calling 877-462-3687.

11 Oct 2011

Quad City Arts Grants Available

By Jessi Black

GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR COMMUNITY ARTS PROJECTS!

Quad City Arts invites artists and non-profit organizations partnering with artists to apply for funding to produce and/or present arts projects and programming in 2012.

Individual artists or non-profit [(501) (c) (3)] organizations partnering with area artists may apply for funding up to $2,000 for their projects or programs. Artists may receive funding of up to $2,000 to produce new work along with work-in-progress workshops and public presentations of the finished work. All projects must occur between April 15, 2012 and March 31, 2013. Application deadline is January 31, 2012.

An informational meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 12, 2011, 5:30-6:30 pm at Quad City Arts.

Please see our website www.quadcityarts.com for an application including policies and guidelines. To request an application or if you have any questions contact Jessi Black at (309) 793-1213 x 103 or jblack@quadcityarts.com.

Funding for Arts Dollar$ is provided by the Illinois Arts Council, John Deere Foundation, Doris and Victor Day Foundation and Mary Iva Gittens Knouse Charitable Trust.

Quad City Arts is a nonprofit local arts agency dedicated to the growth and vitality of the Quad City region through the presentation, development, and celebration of the arts and humanities. All Quad City Arts programs are partially supported by Festival of Trees, Quad City Arts Partners and operating grants from the Illinois Arts Council (a state agency) and the Iowa Arts Council, a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs.
11 Oct 2011

Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Stresses Importance of the American Jobs Act for Iowans

By USDA Communications Office

DES MOINES, Iowa., Oct. 10, 2011 - Today, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack joined business and community leaders to discuss the Administration's strategy to strengthen the U.S. economy and to highlight what passage of the American Jobs Act will mean for Iowans.

 

"The American Jobs Act provides common-sense steps we can take right now to put more people back to work and put more money in the pockets of working Americans, without adding a dime to the deficit," said Vilsack. "In Iowa, this Act will provide a tax cut for over 60,000 businesses, support the jobs of 4,100 teachers and first responders and immediately provide over 5,000 construction workers a job improving highways and other critical infrastructure. Iowa families will receive a tax cut of around$1,580."

 

Secretary Vilsack also highlighted the need for quick passage of the pending trade agreements with Columbia, Panama, and South Korea. The agreements were sent to Congress this week and are awaiting approval.

 

"Full implementation of all three agreements will help farmers and ranchers add more than $2.3 billion a year to the American economy, which will support nearly 20,000 jobs, said Vilsack. "The Korean agreement alone will increase agricultural trade by $1.9 billion and have a greater economic impact that the last nine trade agreements combined."

 

Full details on the three trade agreements and comprehensive fact sheets on how the agreements will benefit Iowa are available at: http://www.fas.usda.gov/.

  • U.S.-Korea Trade Agreement Iowa Fact Sheet
  • U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement Iowa Fact Sheet
  • U.S.-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement Iowa Fact Sheet

The Obama Administration is calling on Congress to pass the American Jobs Act immediately. The Act has five components that will create jobs and strengthen Iowa's economy:

Tax Cuts to Help America's Small Businesses Hire and Grow

  • 60,000

Putting Workers Back on the Job While Rebuilding and Modernizing America

  • $385,900,000 in Iowa that could support a minimum of approximately 5,000
  • $287,200,000 in funds to Iowa to support up to 4,100
  • $132,600,000 in funding to support as many as 1,700
  • $56,700,000

 

Pathways Back to Work for Americans Looking for Jobs.

  • 34,000
  • Alongside these reforms, the President is reiterating his call to extend unemployment insurance, preventing 7,300
  • 800 adults and 2,300

 

Tax Relief for Every American Worker and Family

  • $51,000, will receive a tax cut of around $1,580.

 

#

11 Oct 2011

In Case You Missed It: Ron Paul and Ronald Reagan

By Drew Ivers
Both were considered 'unelectable' and even 'fringe' LAKE JACKSON, Texas - The Ron Paul 2012 Presidential Campaign's Iowa Chairman, Drew Ivers, recently authored an op-ed published in the influential Des Moines Register.  The piece compares Dr. Paul's rise to that of Ronald Reagan in the late 1970s.  "Ron and Ron," as it may, were both considered too far outside of the mainstream to garner the Republican nomination, let alone the cohesive coalition required for a general election victory.

From Outsider to the Leader of Movement
By Drew Ivers, Iowa Chairman of Ron Paul 2012 Campaign Committee

He had no trouble expressing his anti-Washington, anti-establishment feelings. And he maintained a strong grassroots following. His disdain for the overreaching hand of big government and all its regulatory tendencies provided an easy answer to complex questions: "minimum government authority."

Ronald Reagan would go on to become the United States' 40th president. And his "government is the problem" ideology is in step with one well-known Texas congressman currently running for president.

The Paul-Reagan comparison is one that's easy for me to make. I was a college freshman in 1964 and a Barry Goldwater supporter. Later in 1980 I was part of the Reagan Revolution here in Iowa, serving on his campaign in northeast Iowa in the old 3rd Congressional District. In doing so I met with Reagan a few times and also had the pleasure of visiting with him and wife Nancy.

In addition to his presidency, Reagan has strong ties to Iowa having been a WHO Radio broadcaster. From conversations I've had with voters, the Reagan legacy still inspires them to seek candidates with Reagan-like appeal ? anti-establishment reformers with big ideas, and none of the usual candidate dithering...

A link to the full article can be found here.


Authorized and paid for by Ron Paul 2012 PCC Inc. www.RonPaul2012.com

###
11 Oct 2011

Civil War Music from the Muscatine High School at the Muscatine Art Center

By Katy Doherty
Music was used extensively during the Civil War. Bands would play during recruitment rallies to excite the crowd and entice men to enlist. Music was used as a form of entertainment and as a means of inspiring loyalty and camaraderie among the troops. Music sounded the soldiers' daily activities, led them into battle and laid them to rest.

Singing was one of the soldiers' favorite ways to pass time. Many songs were inspirational marching tunes meant to keep morale high, while others were sad, sentimental songs whose lyrics reminded the men of loved ones and home.  Most Civil War era music is easily recognizable today, as they are steadfast favorites.

Join us in the Music Room for a special program of Civil War era music, presented by the Muscatine Art Center in conjunction with the current exhibit: Muscatine & the Civil War: A Sesquicentennial Commemoration. The beautiful music will be performed by select group of Muscatine High School students under the direction of Kelly Preslan and Darcy Hendriks of the Vocal and Band Department at the Muscatine High School.

This program will consist of vocal and instrumental selections relating to the Civil War, in the form of ballads, patriotic songs, marches and instrumental drill patterns.

DETAILS:

What: Civil War Era Music Performed by the Muscatine High School's Vocal and Band Department

When: Thursday, November 10, 2011

Time: 6:00 PM

Where: The Muscatine Art Center's Music Room

Admission to this program is FREE.

Please contact Katy Doherty, Program Coordinator, with any questions or concerns at

563-263-8282 or by email at kdoherty@muscatineiowa.gov.

 

The Muscatine Art Center is open to the public Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM, Thursday from 10 AM to 7 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 5 PM. Admission is FREE.

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