May 25, 2011

As Memorial Day Weekend is quickly approaching, and travel plans are being made, the Scott County Health Department encourages all Scott County residents to check their measles immunization status. A higher than usual number of cases have been seen in the US this year and there is now a confirmed case of measles in Dallas County, Iowa. Measles is one of the most highly contagious infectious diseases and will occasionally cause severe illness and death.

Measles is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. Because there is no treatment for the illness, prevention is key. Anyone born after 1957 and has not had measles or has not received two doses of MMR (Measles Mumps and Rubella vaccine), can get measles if exposed. Scott County residents should check their personal and family immunization records to make sure their measles vaccinations are up-to-date.

Measles causes a high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, pink eye (conjunctivitis) and a red rash that moves from the face to the rest of body. The symptoms may last from 1 - 2 weeks. If you or anyone you know is experiencing the signs and symptoms listed above, please call your health care provider and discuss your symptoms before showing up at the doctor's office, walk- in clinic or emergency room. The physician will advise you to either come to the clinic or arrange for you to be seen at a different location so other people are not exposed.

For more information contact the Scott County Health Department at 563-326-8618 or visit www.scottcountyiowa.com/health. Additional information regarding measles can also be found on the Iowa Department of Public Health's website at www.idph.state.ia.us.

Scott County Residents Encouraged to Check Measles Immunization Status Public Information Officer at 326-8618

Amana - It' s back by overwhelming popular demand! The Old Creamery' s production of Marriage Can Be Murder is returning to the Ox Yoke Inn, Amana after all performances were sold out last February.

This is a wedding you' ll not forget. A flirty bridesmaid who has a thing for the groom, an over-the-top wedding planner, a spoiled rotten bride and an unsolved murder would spell disaster for any other wedding. But, in The Old Creamery' s production of Marriage Can Be Murder, it only brings on the laughs.

Marriage Can Be Murder, by James Daab returns to the Ox Yoke Inn for only four performances: July 6, 7, 13 and 14. The cast consists of Old Creamery regulars Kamille Zbanek of Ely; T.J. Besler of Manchester; Tom Milligan and Deborah Kennedy of East Amana; Jackie McCall and Sean McCall of Marengo; and Nicholas Hodge of Marion.

The evening includes a mouth watering Ox Yoke Inn meal with choice of entrée, beverage and dessert. Performance times are 6 p.m. Seating begins at 5:30 p.m. Cost is $45 per person for dinner and the show and includes all gratuity and tax. Because the action takes place during dinner, show only tickets are not available. Call today or you might miss this wild wedding!

For reservations, call the Ox Yoke Inn, Amana at 800-233-3441.

The Old Creamery Theatre Company is a not-for-profit professional theatre founded in 1971 in Garrison, Iowa. The company is celebrating 40 years of bringing live, professional theatre to the people of Iowa and the Midwest. We thank KGAN and Fox 28, our 2011 season media sponsor.

WHAT:  The Davenport Chick-fil-A® restaurant on E. 53rd Street will host a date night for mothers and sons ages 3-13 on Saturday, June 4 from 4 to 7 p.m. The free event aims to provide mothers with an opportunity to bond with their sons in a special setting.
 
Mother-son couples will walk the red carpet and be treated to tableside service. Tables will be decorated with white linens, candles and fresh flowers.
 
The restaurant team will give sons roses to give to their mothers as well as goody bags with a Mini Plush Chick-fil-A "Eat Mor Chikin®" Cow and offers from L'il Mississippi Golf, Maggie Moos and Michael's Fun World, which they may use to continue the date after dinner. CCI Studio will be on-site to provide photography and will give each mother-son couple a complimentary 4x6 photograph.
 
"We invite the Davenport community to join us for a magical evening for mothers and sons to spend quality time together and enjoy a delicious meal," said restaurant Operator Jeremy Tatman. "Our team at Chick-fil-A and the other sponsors have worked hard to put together a special evening for families in our community."
 
Reservations are required with seating times every half hour beginning at 4 p.m. To make a reservation, visit the restaurant's website at www.cfarestaurant.com/davenport/events. Space is limited.    
 
WHEN:            Saturday, June 4     4 - 7 p.m.
 
WHERE:          Chick-fil-A at Davenport - 2945 E. 53rd St. - Davenport, IA 52807 - (563) 355-1742

CONTACT:      Mandie Reed                                                                           
                        Chick-fil-A at Davenport                                                           
                        (563) 940-4212

DES MOINES, Iowa, May 25, 2011 - Agriculture Under Secretary for Rural Development Dallas Tonsager today was presented with the 2011 Main Street Leadership Award by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in honor of USDA's support to revitalize rural commercial areas. He accepted the award on behalf of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.
 
"USDA, and especially the Rural Development mission area, is honored to receive this prestigious award from the National Trust for Historic Preservation" said Tonsager. "Main street America drives the rural economy.  Our work with the Trust helps ensure that the nation's small town main streets are restored as vibrant and economic engines of their communities.  A healthy main street is a sign of a strong, growing local economy."
 
     The National Trust Main Street Leadership Award is presented annually and recognizes individuals or organizations that have provided strong leadership either locally or nationally in making significant, lasting contributions to commercial district revitalization; inspiring actions that can be duplicated in other communities; and making long-term contributions to a community's revitalization over time.
 
     USDA was recognized for its support through the Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) and the Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) program which seek to create jobs, strengthen business, offer training and financial assistance to local entrepreneurs in rural communities. The goal of the RCDI program is to develop the capacity and ability of private, nonprofit community-based housing and community development organizations, and low- income rural communities to undertake projects related to housing, community facilities, community and economic development projects in rural areas. For more information visit http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/HAD-RCDI_Grants.html.
 
   The RBEG program provides grants for rural projects that finance and facilitate development of small and emerging rural businesses help fund distance learning networks, and help fund employment related adult education programs. To learn more about this program, visit http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/BCP-LoanAndGrants.html.
 
For example, in 2009, Main Street Momence (Momence, Ill.) received a $99,000 Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) as seed capital to establish a revolving loan fund that businesses in the area could use to revitalize the Main Street. The local government of Kankakee County matched the federal funding with $50,000. Four neighborhood businesses used their loans to refurbish, expand, and maintain their businesses and helped create or save 27 full time jobs 20 part-time jobs.
 
   USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of state and local offices. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $150 billion in loans and loan guarantees. Visit http://www.rurdev.usda.gov for additional information about the agency's programs or to locate the USDA Rural Development office nearest you.
 
#

Five Iowa Horses Being Monitored for Equine Herpes Virus

Several horses recently competing in the National Cutting Horse Association Western National Championship in Ogden, Utah, on April 29 to May 8, have been diagnosed with Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1), according to 2011 Incident Information. Reports of affected horses have been received from multiple states and western Canada, with several fatalities. At this time, Animal Health Monitoring and Surveillance (APHIS) understands the virus to be present in horses that attended the cutting horse event and horses that came into contact with those that attended the event.

Dr. David Schmitt, DVM, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship was notified about some horses that developed the neurologic form of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1) after attending a national cutting horse event in Utah. "Five of the horses that attended the event are located at stables in Iowa," Schmitt said. "The good news is that I have still not had any reports of clinical disease in any of these horses in Iowa."

Peggy Miller-Auwerda, Iowa State University Extension equine specialist, said the APHIS situation report also indicates that the Iowa horses are under voluntary or state quarantine and are being monitored. "The virus can spread through the air, contaminated equipment, clothing and hands," Miller-Auwerda said. "EHV-1 infection in horses can cause respiratory disease, abortion in mares, neonatal foal death and/or neurologic disease."

EHV-1 is endemic to the United States and is usually handled by the states involved; USDA becomes involved in cases involving multiple states or movement of horses across state lines. APHIS will continue to monitor the situation and work with the states to make decisions as needed to control the spread of the virus. USDA has posted links with information about EHV-1 and a copy of the situation report at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/nahss/equine/ehv/.

-30-

Two Science of Parenting Publications Now Available in Spanish

AMES, Iowa - Two popular publications from the Science of Parenting are now available in Spanish. "Video Games and Other Media: Pros and Cons" and "Obesity and Overuse of Electronic Media" are available online at the ISU Extension Online Store in both English and Spanish versions.

"ISU Extension is trying to expand its outreach efforts to Latino youth and families," said Kimberly Greder, associate professor of human development and family studies. "Translating more of our educational materials is one step."

Video Games and Other Media: Pros and Cons

"Video Games and Other Media" advises parents on the meanings behind video game ratings, warning signs of too much screen time, side effects of video game playing and what to look for when buying children games. It also lists a guideline for healthy and helpful videogames. Download the PDF for free from the ISU Extension Online Store.

Obesity and Overuse of Electronic Media

"Obesity and Overuse of Electronic Media," explains how much screen time children of various ages should have each day. It also lists the risks of obesity and the benefits of exercise. Download the PDF for free from the ISU Extension Online Store.

"Parents of all race/ethnicities and economic status are not fully aware of the effects of media on children," Greder said. "Many parents do not realize their children are learning through media, especially media use at home and outside of the school day. The publications are one way to share that information."

-30-

Mono-slope Project Open House Features Air Quality and Cattle Performance

ORANGE CITY, Iowa ? Managing mono-slope barns to improve air quality and cattle performance will be featured at an open house on June 22. The open house will be at the Ron and Clayton Christensen barn near Royal, Iowa, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Iowa State University (ISU) Extension beef program specialist Beth Doran said the barn is one of four involved in the Tri-State Air Quality project.

"This project is being conducted cooperatively by ISU Extension, the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering  epartment at South Dakota State University and the USDA Meat Animal Research Center at Clay Center, Neb.," Doran said. "It involves monitoring air emissions over a two-year period to determine baseline data for gases and dust produced in the facility. The study also will evaluate two manure-handling systems to determine which emits lower levels of gases."

In addition to beef producers, Doran said agribusiness staff and policy makers also will be interested in the project  pen house.

"Although water quality regulations have been quite visible recently, attention to results from studies and projects like  his is increasing," she said.

To provide topic-specific information, the open house will consist of seven 15-minute stations focusing on different  spects of managing the mono-slope barn. Stations will operate from 10 a.m. to noon and again from 1 to 3 p.m. The stations topics are:

  • How the barn is managed
  • The air quality project and air quality regulations
  • Cost-sharing opportunities
  • Managing the pack for animal comfort and reduced emissions
  • Stockpiling manure
  • Value and nutrient management of mono-slope manure
  • Analyzing the gases and particulate matter (dust)

From noon to 1 p.m. lunch will be provided and the following open house sponsors will be recognized: Animal Medical  enters at Spencer, Clay County Cattlemen's Association, Clay County Farm Bureau, Coalition to Support Iowa's  Farmers, Farm Credit Services at Emmetsburg, Spencer Ag Center and the Spencer Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee.

There is no charge to attend, but preregistration is required by June 15 to have an accurate count for lunch and  aterials. To preregister, contact Doran by phone at 712-737-4230 or by email at doranb@iastate.edu. You can view and download a flyer describing the event, its location and preregistration requirements.

-30-

Tick Publication Helps with Prevention, Identification

AMES, Iowa ? As Iowans head out into wooded areas this spring and summer in search of mushrooms, for a weekend hike or simply to enjoy nature, they should keep an eye out for some common, tiny pests ? ticks. This time of year is when all three tick species that commonly attack humans are becoming more active, and care should be taken to prevent and detect ticks.

Iowa State University Extension offers a publication, "Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases," that focuses on the three main species: blacklegged (deer) ticks, American dog ticks and lone star ticks. The publication discusses biology, habitat, detection, prevention and risks of all three species. The publication is free for download from the ISU Extension Online Store, www.extension.iastate.edu/store.

"Of the three species, blacklegged ticks are of greatest concern because they can transmit Lyme disease," said Jon Oliver, entomology graduate student and member of the Medical Entomology Laboratory. "Starting about now and lasting for the next two months, immature, nymphal blacklegged ticks will be active. Because of their small size ? smaller than a sesame seed ? the nymphs are hard to detect and often remain attached to people long enough to transmit the disease."

Oliver said blacklegged ticks require high humidity to survive, so are almost exclusively found in thickly forested areas, particularly areas with lots of oak trees.

Medical Entomology Laboratory

Oliver and other scientists at the Medical Entomology Laboratory at Iowa State University track ticks and mosquitoes, the two leading carriers of diseases to humans in the United States. They also track which counties in Iowa have had ticks infected with Lyme disease, information that is included in "Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases" and on their website, www.ent.iastate.edu/medent/ticks_IA.

Iowans can assist the lab with the Lyme Disease Surveillance Program by submitting ticks they find. The lab relies on submitted specimens to track tick distribution and infections status in the state. Information on how to submit can be found on the lab's website at www.ent.iastate.edu/medent/surveillance.

"If you find a tick on yourself, a friend, a family member or a pet, we will gladly take the tick and identify it for you," Oliver said. "When you find a tick of any sort, wrap it in tissue, add a blade of grass, seal it in a zip-top bag and mail it to us."

- 30 -

12 Iowa High School Students Chosen for Trip to China

AMES, Iowa ? Visiting farmers' markets, exploring farming practices and interacting with other cultures are just some of the activities 12 Iowa high school students are looking forward to during their summer trip to China. The trip is part of a program designed to help Iowa youth gain the necessary international knowledge and skills to meet the demands of the new global economy.

"Today's youth increasingly have a need to understand the growing global economy, their place in it and how they can  meet its needs," said Kirk Leeds, CEO of the Iowa Soybean Association. "Students have a great opportunity to be exposed to new and different cultures and experiences during this trip, which will help equip them to analyze issues from a global perspective."

Twelve students from Iowa high schools were selected to take part in the Global Youth Excellence Program's China Leadership Experience. The Global Youth Excellence Program is sponsored by Iowa State University Extension, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation and Iowa Soybean Association. Leaders from all three sponsors will accompany the students on the trip to China from July 31 to Aug. 9.

"Giving Iowa high school students an opportunity to gain a better understanding of other cultures will pay great dividends as Iowa continues to play a critical role in the fast growing global food system," said Jerry Miller, interim vice president of Iowa State University Extension. "The pool of applicants was impressive and I am confident we have selected a terrific group to represent Iowa agriculture and the state of Iowa."

A call for applications went out in March and ended April 29. Sixty-nine students applied for the opportunity and the 12 participants and two alternates were chosen by a group of four representatives of the sponsors. Eligible students are entering their sophomore and junior years in fall and each student had to complete an application and answer five essay questions.

"The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is pleased to be part of this important youth program. We are very hopeful that this group will greatly expand their knowledge of China and share what they learn with others," said Craig Lang, president of Iowa Farm Bureau Federation.

Students selected for the trip:

Carrie Adrian, a freshman from Knoxville, attends Knoxville High School and is active in band, choir, soccer, cross country, 4-H and her church youth group. She likes sharing what she has learned by making presentations to local communities and at the Iowa State Fair. She is excited to tell her stories to people when she returns. Adrian plays the tuba and is "not afraid to be noticed or to speak out and be heard - just like my tuba."

Nicholas Ahern, a freshman from Avoca, attends AHST Community High School and is an active Boy Scout and currently working on becoming an Eagle Scout. He has competed in the FCCLA at the national level and has also competed in the Iowa High School Battle of the Books at the state level. In addition, Ahern plays the saxophone and the piano, and is active in the community's swim team. This trip will help him "develop the skills to interact with people of other cultures" and help fulfill his dream of becoming a foreign ambassador one day.

Bradley Aronson, a freshman from Albert City, attends Sioux Central High School, is a member of the FFA and has received several awards including the Star Green Hand Award and the Ag Sales Proficiency Award for high fruit sales. Recently he has been selected to be part of the Iowa Youth Technology Team. Aronson enjoys volunteering and is currently raising funds to do community service work in New Orleans in the summer of 2012. In his free time he enjoys woodworking, welding, architectural designing and spending time with his dog. He attributes his communication and organizational skills to 4-H. Aronson hopes to visit the Chinese farmers' markets, learn how they market their produce and "bring back this knowledge to share with others."

Brandy Childers, a sophomore from Red Oak, attends Red Oak High School, is very involved in numerous school and community activities and is a secretary in the FCCLA. She also is an active volunteer in her community. She looks forward to sharing with her community what she will learn on this trip and "perhaps change any misconceptions people may have [of the Chinese culture]."

Izak Christensen, a freshman from Osage, attends Osage High School, is an active 4-H member and serves as the vice president of the club. He also serves on the Mitchell County Council where he helps plan and supervise community activities. In addition to the many community service projects he is involved in, Christensen helps out in his family farm and looks forward to seeing the Chinese farming techniques and "what their farms actually look like with my own eyes."

Kelsey Dennis, a sophomore from Ames, attends Ames High School, where she participates in sports and is very involved in music activities. Dennis also is involved in SHEPH: Students Helping to Eliminate Poverty and Hunger; a school-sponsored club at Ames High. She is passionate about working with children and teaching, and is currently a student teacher for a kindergarten class and a Hebrew teacher for a third grader. She hopes that this trip will give her a chance "to experience something [she is] not even capable of dreaming about."

Jared Gradeless, a sophomore from Melrose, attends Wayne Community High School and is currently the president of the Washington Willing Workers 4-H Club and involved in many activities in school. Gradeless "loves to help others by volunteering in the community" and helps out with the family farm when he is not in school. He believes that "one person can truly make a difference in this world", and he aspires to be that person. Gradeless hopes to share information about his town and "how we farm and protect the environment," with the Chinese students he will meet during the trip.

Sarah Rethwisch, a sophomore from Fort Dodge, attends Fort Dodge Senior High. She is currently the president of her 4-H club and has taken a number of presentations to the State Fair. She was involved in the People to People Student Ambassador Program that aims to get to know other cultures and promote world peace and earned her tuition by selling fleece blankets and scarves. She hopes to learn and understand the Chinese people better and share this knowledge through the Lion's Club, 4-H club, school, churches and people within the community.

Hannah Riensche, a sophomore from Jesup, attends Jesup High School. She has held and continues to hold several leadership appointments including president of the freshman class and is currently vice president of the sophomore class and the chapter vice president of the FFA. She contributes to the community through teaching Sunday school. The budding agriculturalist is "eager to learn more about the differences and similarities between agriculture in China and the U.S., and the ways we can work together."

Preston Schaaf, a freshman from Tabor, attends Fremont Mills High School where he serves on the student council and has been a class officer. He competes in high school policy debate at the national level, and will be attending a six-week debate camp in Atlanta in the summer. Schaaf is currently the secretary of the Riverside Rockets 4-H club, and has served as the reporter, historian and photographer and is involved in regular volunteer activities. Schccaaf also is one of the 16 students selected to serve on the 2011 Iowa Youth Technology Team. Having lived in the "relatively non-diverse Midwest," he hopes to "break down the walls of our small community ... and be able to share" these experiences with the others in his community through this "tremendous opportunity."

Mandy Thompson, a freshman from Pleasantville, attends Pleasantville High School. She has been a Girl Scout for the last eight years and has been volunteering at Toys for Tots the last five years. Thompson attributes her leadership development to agriculture classes and FFA, and continues to broaden her leadership skills by attending conferences. Involvement in school and community are very important to Thompson and she hopes to gain "global travel experience and relate to others with the same aspirations and commonalities" with this trip to China.

Michael Tupper, a freshman from Ionia, attends New Hampton High School. He is involved in numerous activities  including 4-H, FFA, student senate and church youth group. He believes that these activities have helped him become a "strong team player and a strong individual leader." His achievements include winning the junior and intermediate swine showman, and he placed econd in the northeast district livestock judging contest. Tupper hopes to "step out of [his] box and try to gain a new experience" to reach his "full potential of making an impact on the world" through this trip to China.

For more information or questions, please contact Sok Leng Tan at 515-231-3670 or sokleng@iastate.edu.

- 30 -

4-H'ers Use GIS on iPhones to Map Trees at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

AMES, Iowa - Teenage 4-H scientists say they are "restoring something old with something new." The something old is a bur oak savannah in the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. The something new is geographic information systems (GIS) mapping using mobile phones.

The Iowa 4-H'ers are one of four teams of 4-H members in four states that are carrying out GIS mapping with national wildlife refuges, fish hatcheries or other ecological services offices, said Jay Staker, director of Iowa State University Extension Science, Engineering and Technology (E-SET). ISU Extension is leading the effort with the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA NIFA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Kansas, Minnesota and New York also are involved in the project. The four states are sharing the $73,000 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service grant that funds the effort.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service has stated that GIS soon will become so prevalent in natural resources management that organizations without some GIS capability will be at a severe disadvantage.

Karen Viste-Sparkman, a wildlife biologist at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, was glad to receive the call from Staker. "He was working with 4-H groups and they had a grant to work on a national wildlife refuge. We got excited about it because they wanted to do GIS work ... and that's one of the things we really need more of here," Viste-Sparkman said.

The Iowa 4-H'ers are using GIS on iPhones to map the locations of remnant bur oak and shagbark hickory trees that have been invaded by exotic non-fire tolerant trees in the wildlife refuge.

4-H Works with GIS Technology at Wildlife Refuge from Iowa State University Extension.

"We have an iPhone app that talks with the ISU GIS department server, so we get real-time interaction," said 4-H Tech Team member David Runneals. "What's cool about this project is we actually get to use technology and that we also get out in the field to get experience."

Volunteer 4-H leader Debbie Stevens noted the need for GIS, "but a lot of folks, especially nonprofits or governmental entities cannot afford to just hire someone. Our youth in 4-H are learning real world skills. This is a professional-level occupation now. ... So not only are they having fun, they're gaining knowledge, they're learning technology skills, information management and personal development for future careers."

The 4-H'ers will continue to do GIS mapping over the summer months to identify the locations of as many bur oaks, hickories and other species as possible, Stevens said. Then in the winter months when the ground is frozen, the refuge staff can do maintenance, removing dead or diseased trees as well as trees that don't belong in a bur oak savannah.

"This GIS mapping project engages 4-H youth as citizen scientists to conduct relevant research that will have an impact for both the Fish and Wildlife Service and the 4-H'ers," Staker said. "The Fish and Wildlife Service gets data for habitat protection, conservation, restoration and other uses. The youth get opportunities to serve their states with meaningful research. They also develop skills that could lead them to pursue degrees and careers such as wildlife biology, natural resource management, science, community planning, recreation or agriculture."

-30-

Music and Child Development:  Music helps children with multiple areas of development:

Language Skills: New vocabulary words are introduced through songs.

Thinking Skills: Experimenting with instruments helps children understand that different objects make different sounds.

Social and Emotional Skills: Soft music can calm a child, while upbeat music can energize them. Music is used to transition children from on activity to another.

Movement: Coordination improves with clapping, marching, or dancing to the beat.

Rhyming Words:

Rhyming words in songs or poems helps children expand their vocabularies and introduces them to reading and writing. Reading stories with rhymes or making up your own song with rhyming words are good ways to engage children in these types of thought processes.

Tips for Parents:

  • Listen to a variety of music at home and in the car.
  • Sing with and to your child, use hand motions with songs such as "The Itsy-Bitsy Spider."
  • Help your child make his own instrument.
  • Dance together.
  • Attend free concerts in your area.

Contact Information:  Cornell Cooperative Extension of Jefferson County, phone: 315-788-8450 email: info@nyspirc.org

- 30 -

 

 

Search New Website, Visit Iowa Farms

AMES, Iowa ? The Visit Iowa Farms website, www.visitiowafarms.org, has unveiled a new look.  "The new site features detailed descriptions of Iowa farms and the ability to map out locations of interest in your area," said Ray Hansen, director of Iowa State University Extension's Value Added Agriculture Program, which created the Visit Iowa Farms project.

"Our goal is to stimulate the agritourism industry in Iowa," Hansen said. "Having additional visitors to Iowa farms benefits local farmers, rural economies and promotes agriculture in general."

Interactively map farms by county or type of agritourism operation; Inform producers on legal requirements, regulations and business/marketing plans; and Display upcoming events related to agritourism for both producers and consumers.

A news feature allows consumers and producers alike to keep up to date on events, programs and what's new.

"The new site provides an updated, appealing look for producers and tourists," Hansen said. "Higher gas prices could cause Iowans to stay closer to home this summer. However, they can still enjoy fun, affordable family experiences at many Iowa farms in their region and can find those farms through this site."

Producers not registered on the site are encouraged to use the "contact us" feature of the site to register their agritourism operation. Registration is free.

"We encourage traffic to the site," Hansen said. "Teachers and summer youth program leaders can use this site in planning field trips, as well."

The Value Added Agriculture Program (VAAP) provides unbiased, science-based information to help establish or expand agricultural-related businesses in Iowa. Contact VAAP at 515-294-2136 for more information.

-30-

Yard and Garden: Blueberries

This week Iowa State University Extension garden experts respond to common questions related to growing and caring for blueberries. Gardeners with additional questions can contact the experts by emailing or calling the ISU Extension horticulture hotline at hortline@iastate.edu or 515-294-3108.

Can blueberries be grown successfully in Iowa?

Blueberries can be grown successfully in Iowa. However, they do have special growing requirements.

Blueberry plants require a sunny location and a well-drained soil high in organic matter. Avoid wet, poorly drained sites. Blueberries are susceptible to root rots in poorly drained soils.

Soil pH also is important. Blueberries require acid soils with a pH of 4.0 to 5.5. Since the pH of most Iowa soils is above this range, the soil pH must be lowered to successfully grow blueberries.

Home gardeners can lower their soil pH by adding sphagnum peat moss to the soil. Sulfur also can be used to acidify the soil. Sulfur should be incorporated into the soil a year before planting, as it reacts slowly with the soil. Aluminum sulfate should not be used to acidify the soil, as large amounts of this material can be toxic to blueberry plants.

When using sphagnum peat moss to acidify the soil, dig a wide, shallow hole. Set the plant at the same depth it grew in the nursery, then backfill with a 50:50 mixture of soil and moist peat (moisten dry peat before mixing with soil).

Which blueberry varieties perform well in Iowa?

Highbush and half-high blueberries can be successfully grown in Iowa.

Highbush blueberries perform best in central and southern Iowa. Plants develop into 6- to 8-foot-tall shrubs. Suggested varieties for gardeners in central and southern Iowa include 'Patriot,' 'Blueray,' 'Bluejay,' 'Bluecrop,' 'Rubel,' 'Jersey' and 'Elliott.'

Half-high blueberries possess greater cold hardiness and are the best choice for gardeners in northern Iowa. Plants are relatively small (varieties commonly grow 2 to 3 feet tall) and produce small to medium-size berries. Suggested varieties are 'Northblue,' 'Northcountry,' 'Northsky' and 'St. Cloud.'

Plant two or three blueberry varieties to ensure good pollination and maximum fruit set.

I just planted some blueberries. When can I expect them to produce a crop?

Blueberry plants should not be allowed to bear fruit the first two years after planting. Any blossoms that form should be removed. Removal of the flowers maximizes vegetative growth and increases yields in later years. Blueberry plants should come into full production by the fifth or sixth year. Gardeners can expect to harvest five to 10 pounds of fruit per plant from mature highbush blueberries. Half-high blueberries generally produce two to three pounds per plant.

Established blueberry plants can be fertilized with an acid-producing fertilizer, such as ammonium sulfate, in early spring. Apply one-half to one pound of ammonium sulfate per 100 square feet of garden area. Ammonium sulfate supplies nitrogen to the plants and also helps to maintain soil acidity.

Should blueberry plants be watered during dry weather?

Blueberries have shallow, fibrous root systems. Plants quickly become stressed during hot, dry weather. To help retain moisture and control weeds, apply 2 to 4 inches of mulch around blueberry plants. Sawdust, wood chips, pine needles and shredded leaves are excellent mulching materials. During dry weather, water plants every seven to 10 days.

Do blueberries have insect and disease problems?

Phytophthora root rot can be a serious problem in poorly drained sites. Phytophthora root rot can be avoided by planting blueberries in well-drained soils. Outside of root rots, blueberries generally have few insect and disease problems in Iowa.

Birds can be a problem as they may devour much of the crop. While scare devices may be helpful, netting is the most effective way to protect the fruit from birds. Netting should be placed over the plants when the fruit begin to turn color. Hang the netting over some type of support structure with the bottom edges of the netting buried or anchored to the ground.

-30-

Three-Day Research, Information Trip Set for Iowa Beef Producers

CHARITON, Iowa - A three-day trip to southwest Iowa and eastern Nebraska offers Iowa beef producers the opportunity to tour innovative beef operations and visit with successful producers and cutting edge researchers. Iowa State University (ISU) Extension beef program specialist Joe Sellers said stops at the Armstrong Research Farm in Cass County, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) and the USDA's Meat Animal Research Center (MARC) near Clay Center, Neb., will provide current information on research being conducted at those locations.

"We'll leave Chariton at 8 a.m. on July 6 and return the evening of July 8, with tours at private ranches and operations, visits with UNL and ISU staff and discussions with other producers," Sellers said. "Those who attend will be able to see and ask questions about a number of timely topics pertinent to their own operations."

Registration fee for the tour is $100 per person, which includes bus travel from and to Chariton, and lunch each of the three days. Lodging and other meals are not included, and checks will be held until the minimum number of 40 paid attendees is reached. If interest is strong among producers along the route, other pick up locations will be arranged.

"We'll stay in Hastings, Neb., on both July 7 and 8, and a block of rooms at $77 per night plus tax is being held at the Holiday Inn Express for our group until June 8," Sellers said. "People are responsible for making their own lodging arrangements, and should mention 'Iowa Beef Tour' when they call Holiday Inn at 402-463-8858."

Sellers said that while the agenda is a busy one, producers will learn a great deal at both the stops and through conversations with others.

"The first day we travel to the Armstrong Farm near Lewis for discussions on cattle age, source verification, hoop buildings and retained ownership," he said. "After lunch we head to UNL where we'll visit with staff about research efforts in Nebraska before heading to Hastings for the first overnight."

The next day features tour stops at TC Ranch near Franklin, Gotsch Feedyards at Red Cloud, S&S Herefords at Guide Rock and the Herz confined deep bedded beef barn at Lawrence. The final day includes a tour, discussion and lunch at MARC, located between Hastings and Clay Center, before heading back to Chariton. "Those wanting to attend must register by sending name, address and a check for $100 per attendee by June 4," Sellers said. "Make the check payable to Lucas County Extension, and send to 48293 HyVee Road, Chariton, IA, 50049."

For more information contact Sellers by email at sellers@iastate.edu or by phone at 641-203-1270.

-30-

Games from ISU Extension Help Children Learn to Manage Money

In tough times and in good times, all family members should be involved in making decisions about money, say Iowa State University Extension experts.

Children grow in understanding and self-worth when they contribute to the resolution of financial problems. Studies by the Consumer Federation of America indicate that including children in decisions involving money both prepares them to become wise consumers and brings the family closer together.

"Including children in financial decisions can increase their appreciation for the financial challenges you face as their parent," according to Mary Beth Kaufman, ISU Extension family resource management program specialist based at the Shelby County Extension Office in Harlan.

Extension offers two games that families can use with children of all ages to help them make decisions about managing money and spending. The Allowance Game helps younger children make decisions about spending allowance money wisely, and The Spending Game assists older youth in making choices among spending categories. Both games would make good discussion starters for family talks on managing money and making financial decisions.

Each game is described in a four-page publication available from ISU Extension county offices or from Extension's online store at www.extension.iastate.edu/store/. The cost of the publication is $1 or a .pdf version can be downloaded at no cost.

The Spending Game, PM 1103, was developed for older youth as they think about heading off to college or living on their own Players are given 20 beans to spend in 13 categories including housing, communications, insurance, food, gifts and recreation. In round 2 of the game the budget is reduced to 13 beans. Follow-up discussion topics include talking about what to give up first and why, and how much money should be in an emergency fund.

The Allowance Game, PM 1776, targeted to younger youth, offers several choices at various cost levels. A 20-bean budget is spent in categories where children typically spend allowances, such as recreation, clothing, hobbies, music and movies, and savings. Players are asked to think about how spending changes when allowances are reduced, and what is easy or difficult about making choices on what to spend.

Lessons learned in using The Spending Game or The Allowance Game can be applied on the practical level as well. Extension experts suggest the following strategies, based on the ages of the children involved:

Preschool children. In the store, show the children two or three items, from which they are to choose one to buy. If after the purchase they are disappointed in their decision, do not give them more money?let them learn from their mistake. Help them understand the relationship between working to earn money and buying to satisfy their needs and wants.

Elementary and middle school children. Help them to understand about wise spending and savings. Let them help make some of the purchasing decisions when shopping for the family. Ask teens and older preteens to assist in bill payment by making out the checks, or by addressing the envelopes, or with your close supervision, by assisting you electronically.

High school youths. In nationwide financial literacy tests of high school seniors, teens received low scores in their understanding of financial management principles. Yet nationally, teens purchase billions of dollars of goods and services each year. They want and need opportunities for learning how to stretch and spend their money wisely. Give them experience in planning purchases, keeping records, and using credit sparingly. These experiences can go far to prepare them to be responsible consumers.

-30-

  See Extreme Cabin Makeovers at 4-H Center Open House

AMES, Iowa - The results of an "Extreme Cabin Makeover" will be on display June 2 at the Iowa 4-H Center, 1991 Peach Ave., Madrid. The public is invited to an open house to see the cabins and the fun opportunities for campers this summer.

"The cabin makeovers are a result of citizenship and volunteerism, key outcomes of the Iowa State University Extension 4-H Youth Development program," said Annette Brown, 4-H youth development specialist.

Eight 4-H clubs began the makeover challenge last October, Brown explained. Seven Hickory Cabins received major renovations over the last several months.

Several Boone County clubs worked on the cabins: Madrid Duets and Merry Makers, Shellbark Cabin; Green Clovers, Carolina Cabin; Montana Miners, Swamp Cabin; Bluff Creek Wranglers, Big Bud Cabin; Westside Hustlers, Mockernut Cabin; and Green County Young Leaders, Water Cabin. The Richland Royals from Chickasaw County renovated the Shagbark Cabin.

The projects began Oct. 23 and the clubs had until May 1 to complete their assignments. Each team was responsible for gathering resources and materials, developing a plan for their cabin and communicating with Iowa 4-H Center staff throughout the renovation.

4-H members, parents and partners spent hundreds of hours in planning, raising money, preparing for and carrying out the makeovers, Brown said. This resulted in cleaning, painting and staining walls; building new shelves; cleaning or replacing carpets; making curtains; adding wall decorations; new lighting and more.

Iowa State University Extension 4-H Youth Development's Reach out Iowa program, funded by Learn and Serve American and the Iowa Commission on Volunteerism, provided partial funding for the makeovers. Additional funding varied based on clubs' fundraising efforts.

In addition to the club work, the cabins also had new electrical lines and breaker boxes installed to accommodate new heating and cooling units. A Boone County Community Endowment grant, Midland Power, other donors and volunteers provided funding.

To preview the makeovers, visit the 4-H Center Facebook page. The Iowa 4-H Center is hosting a public open house on June 2 from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Youth groups across Iowa are engaging in service learning projects through ISU Extension's Reach Out Iowa program. Check out what's happening at http://iowa4hservicelearning.ning.com/. Any youth group (10-17 years old) may request orientation and funding for service learning projects through Reach Out Iowa by contacting Annette Brown at Boone County Office Extension office, 515-432-3882.

-30-

Cover Crops Research Featured at Spring Field Day on June 15

The annual spring field day for the Iowa State University Southeast Iowa Research Farm near Crawfordsville will be on June 15, with tours beginning at 1:00 p.m. Iowa State University Extension provides research-based information and education to help people make better decisions, in their personal, community and professional lives.

One of the features on the tour will be Dr. Jeremy Singer's presentation on "Cover Crop Establishment and Management." Dr. Singer is an agronomist with the National Laboratory for Agriculture and the Environment. "We are seeing more interest in the use of cover crops in Iowa, both for soil conservation and for improving the soil tilth," according to Jim Fawcett, ISU Extension Field Agronomist.

Also highlighted on the tour will be "Crop Season Review & Making Grain Marketing Decisions in Crazy Times" by Kevin Van Dee, farm superintendent, and Jim Jensen, ISU Extension Farm Management Specialist; "Corn Nematode Management" by Greg Tylka, ISU Extension Plant Pathologist; and "Making Fungicide Application Decisions" by Mark Carlton, ISU Extension Field Agronomist.

Certified Crop Advisor continuing education credits will be available. Those wishing to obtain additional CCA credits can come at 8:30 a.m. for a morning training session that will focus on cover crops and soil conservation. The credit fee for Certified Crop Advisors is $50 (or $25 for the afternoon only) and includes lunch. There is no fee for the afternoon tours. A lunch will be available at noon for $7.

Please register by June 13 for the morning CCA session and the noon lunch by calling the Johnson County Extension Office at 319-337-2145.

To reach the farm, follow U.S. Highway 218 one and three quarters miles south of Crawfordsville, then two miles east on county road G-62, then three quarters mile north. Signs will be posted to guide you to the event.

-30-

New Extension Fisheries and Aquaculture Specialist at Iowa State

AMES, Iowa--Allen Pattillo joined Iowa State University staff April 1 as an aquaculture and fisheries extension specialist and a North Central Regional Aquaculture Center (NCRAC) program specialist. Pattillo earned a Bachelor of Science in fisheries and aquaculture from University of Georgia and master's in aquaculture from University of Auburn before coming to Iowa.

At Iowa State, he will assume research responsibilities on several projects, work with the NCRAC program and provide outreach to Iowans wanting to better understand waterways, fish, aquatic invertebrates and aquaculture. During his first weeks in Iowa he has begun familiarizing himself with Iowa's diverse fishing waters and nearly 130 fish species within the state.

"After a weekend of catching fish below the damn at Lake Red Rock, that quickly became my favorite Iowa fishing spot," said Pattillo. "But I have plans to spend a weekend at Brushy Creek and haven't been to the Iowa Great Lakes yet, so my favorite spot may change a few times as I visit more Iowa waterways."

Pattillo grew up in Dawsonville, Ga., fishing the mountain lakes and streams in that region. His first memorable catch, at age five, was a seven and a half pound catfish that nearly pulled him and his sister into the water. He also tells of his grandfather using corn as trout bait. Listening to him talk of his family adventures, it hardly seems any wonder that he is now involved with aquatic animal studies and draws on his education and life experiences to answer questions for Iowans.

His research projects at Iowa State include a USDA funded bluegill feeding study in collaboration with Lincoln University, Mo., and Purdue University, and an Iowa DNR aquaculture study involving hybrid striped bass. Working with Joe Morris, Iowa State professor and NCRAC associate director, Pattillo hopes to get his feet on the ground with these established projects. "Allen's aquaculture degree from Auburn University will be crucial to his role here at Iowa State," said Morris. "His experiences as a fisheries technician will be useful as he addresses questions from Iowa clients on a wide variety of fisheries and pond issues."

Iowans with questions can reach Pattillo at pattillo@iastate.edu or by calling 515-294-8616. In his first month, Pattillo said he has gotten a feel for the type of questions that Iowans have. "I've received questions about ponds - weeds in ponds and how to get rid of them, muddy water and other erosion issues, and from people wondering where their fish have gone," he said. "People considering whether or not to get into the aquaculture business have contacted me and I'm excited to have the opportunity to expand aquaculture in the state."

Pattillo is very interested in hearing from Iowans, getting to know what issues they are facing and connecting them with university resources and agency personnel. "I learn a bit more about Iowa with every question I get," he said.

As a member of the Extension Natural Resource Ecology and Management (NREM) team, Pattillo joins Jesse Randall, extension forester, and Rebecca Christoffel, extension wildlife specialist, to provide education on topics that are of increasing interest to Iowans. "The Extension programs in Natural Resource Ecology Management are important in the protection and enhancement of Iowa's natural resources for recreational and commercial purposes," said John Lawrence, ISU Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources director. "In addition to the enjoyment and ecosystem services these lands provide, there is also a significant economic benefit from hunting, fishing, camping and other outdoor activities."

The Extension NREM team provides education to Iowans interested in the various facets of the state's natural resources.

-30-

SEC leasing deal was disastrous?, Grassley says

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa today made the following comment on a new inspector general report saying the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission faces a $94 million claim after it backed out of a deal to lease office space in Washington, D.C.  The report is available here.  Grassley has a longstanding interest in conducting oversight of agencies including the SEC to help make sure the agencies function well on behalf of taxpayers and in the SEC's case, investors as well as taxpayers.

"The report portrays the SEC's leasing operation as incompetent in just about every way.   The report says employees grossly over-estimated the amount of needed space, maneuvered around leadership's concerns, and even backdated a key document to justify their decision.  The taxpayers might be on the hook for nearly $100 million as a result of this mismanagement.  Everyone who's responsible needs to be held fully accountable.  The agency needs to get a handle on its leasing operation to make sure this kind of mess doesn't happen again."

"Holding Criminals Accountable: Extending Criminal Jurisdiction to Government Contractors and Employees Abroad"

Wednesday, May 25, 2011
 
      Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding today's hearing to discuss extending federal criminal law to government contractors and employees serving overseas.  This is an important topic given the increased use of government contractors by federal agencies in overseas operations, including Afghanistan and Iraq.  Holding any individual accountable for crimes is an important part of the Judiciary Committee's jurisdiction. 
 
      I think we all would agree that anyone who commits a crime should be held accountable and that bringing criminals to justice is one of the most important roles of government.  However, extending the long arm of American criminal law is an issue that should not be done without significant consideration and caution. 
 
      Chairman Leahy and I have worked together in the past to ensure that government contractors are not given a free pass to commit crimes or to defraud the government from resources that are entrusted to our country by other nations.  We worked together in 2008 on the Wartime Enforcement of Fraud Act that would have tolled the statute of limitation on fraud offenses that occurred in a war zone. 
 
      We also worked together to amend the False Claims Act to ensure that funds that were under the trust or administration of the United States government were protected from fraud and abuse.  That fix was necessary to address a loophole created by the courts in the Custer Battles decision where Iraqi funds administered by the U.S. government were subjected to fraud.  This was a damaging loophole because it essentially said that contractors were free to defraud the government as long as the money was from a foreign country that entrusted the U.S. government to administer it.  Ultimately, we closed that loophole in the Fraud Enforcement Recover Act which was signed into law by President Obama.
 
      Today's hearing is no less important because criminal acts committed by U.S. citizens and contractors abroad could threaten our foreign relations.  As such, it is right for us to examine the ways we can bring these criminals within the reach of the law.  Legislation extending the reach of U.S. criminal law to contractors was introduced in the 110th and 111th Congresses.  Both times, that legislation failed to clear both chambers and was never signed into law. 
     
      Chief among the concerns with the legislation was the lack of a clear exception for contractors that were employed by the intelligence community.  In 2007, President Bush issued a Statement of Administration Policy citing concerns with legislation expanding extraterritorial jurisdiction over contractors and citing concerns with the impact on national security activities and operations.  Similar concerns held up legislation in the last Congress as well. 
 
      I think there is a lot of merit to extending our criminal law to civilian contractors and employees abroad.  However, we must make sure that this is done in a manner that is narrowly tailored to the specific problem and is not overly broad.  Further, we must ensure that we do not harm critical national security and intelligence operations abroad.  Those concerns should be addressed in a proper forum and not necessarily aired in public.  However, in the limited scope we can address that topic in a public forum, I intend to ask some questions about what a carve-out for the intelligence community should look like. 
 
      I also want to know about how many new resources the Department of Justice will require to implement investigations and prosecutions under a proposed expansion of extraterritorial jurisdiction.  Given the current fiscal situation of the federal government, I am concerned that reallocating resources from one side of the Justice Department to another could limit other investigations and prosecutions. 
 
      I look forward to hearing the testimony of the witnesses, asking some of these important questions, and working with the Chairman and members of the committee on this important topic.  Thank you.   
 
Immigratio?n-B-1 Visa Program Used to Avoid Requiremen?ts of Other Programs

Wednesday, May 25, 2011
 
Senator Chuck Grassley released the following comment after receiving a response to his April 14, 2011 inquiry to the departments of State and Homeland Security about the use of the B-1 visa program by employers to recruit foreign workers who are then not subject to the cap and the prevailing wage requirements of the H-1B program.  The response by the State Department said the agency is working with the Department of Homeland Security to eliminate or amend the B-1 in Lieu of H-1B policy in the Foreign Affairs Manual.  Grassley is still waiting for a response from the Department of Homeland Security.
 
"It appears the B-1 visa program has become a subterfuge for companies wanting to avoid the cap and wage requirements of the H-1B visa, so it's good to see the State Department acknowledge the need for greater fraud prevention in the visa approval process as well as changes to policies that incentivize employers to go around the H-1B program in the Foreign Affairs.  The State Department's efforts are a step in the right direction, but more work will be needed in this area to ensure the integrity of our visa programs.  This includes the ability for the department to maintain accurate statistics that will help us understand how we can better close loopholes to make sure that American workers are given first priority for jobs."   
 
The State Department's response to Grassley can be found by clicking here.  Below is a copy of the text of Grassley's April 14th letter to the departments of State and Homeland Security.
 
For Immediate Release
Thursday, April 14, 2011
 
Grassley Concerned That Companies are Using B-1 Visa Program
to Circumvent H-1B Requirements
 
            WASHINGTON - Senator Chuck Grassley is asking for a thorough investigation by the Departments of State and Homeland Security of the B-1 visa program and the use of this visa program by employers to recruit foreign workers who are then not subject to the cap and the prevailing wage requirements of the H-1B program.
 
            "When unemployment remains at a staggering 8.8 percent, we should be focusing our oversight efforts on employers who are taking advantage of the system and importing foreign workers to the detriment of Americans," Grassley said. 
 
            In his letter to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano, Grassley questioned the "B-1 in lieu of H-1B" policy currently in place.  He wrote, "Under this low threshold (of the B-1 visa), a company could import workers via the B-1 business visitor visa and evade the H-1B visa cap and prevailing wage requirements that would otherwise apply to such workers so long as the workers could show that their paychecks were still coming from the foreign company." 
           
            Grassley also referenced a formal complaint against Infosys that details how Infosys management in India decided to use the B-1 business visitor visa program to get around H-1B program restrictions.  The plaintiff alleges that Infosys was importing foreign workers as B-1 business visitors under the guise of attending meetings rather than working for a wage as an employee of a U.S. company, which is forbidden under the statute and regulations governing the B-1 visa program.
 
Grassley argues that American workers should be given first consideration by companies looking to import foreign workers.  Grassley has led the effort to close loopholes and enact reform in the H-1B visa program.  He has introduced legislation in previous Congresses to reform the H-1B and L visa programs and is planning on introducing a bill again in the 112th Congress.
 
            Here is a copy of the text of Grassley's letter.  A signed copy can be found here.
 
April 14, 2011
 
The Honorable Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary
U.S. Department of State
2201 C Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20520
 
The Honorable Janet Napolitano
Secretary
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
245 Murray Lane, Mailstop 0150
Washington, D.C. 20528-0150
Dear Secretary Clinton and Secretary Napolitano:
 
I'm very concerned about fraudulent actions that at least one foreign-based company has allegedly been taking in order to get around the requirements and U.S. worker protections of the H-1B visa program, and more generally, about provisions in current guidance to visa adjudicators that actually authorize such evasion of Congressional intent. 
 
On February 23, 2010, a U.S. employee of Infosys Technologies Limited, Inc. ("Infosys") filed a complaint in the Circuit Court of Lowndes County, Alabama, alleging that his employer was "sending lower level and unskilled foreigners to the United States to work in full-time positions at Infosys' customer sites in direct violation of immigration laws."  The plaintiff described ways that Infosys, one of the top ten H-1B petitioning companies, had worked to "creatively" get around the H-1B visa program in order to bring in low-skilled and low-wage workers, resulting in visa fraud against the U.S. Government.
 
Infosys, by its own admission, is an "H-1B dependent employer."  Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, H-1B dependent employers must take good faith steps to recruit U.S. workers and to offer them compensation that is at least as great as that required to be offered to H-1B nonimmigrants.
 
The formal complaint against Infosys details how Infosys management in India decided to use the B-1 business visitor visa program to get around H-1B program restrictions.  The plaintiff alleges that Infosys was importing foreign workers as B-1 business visitors under the guise of attending meetings rather than working for a wage as an employee of a U.S. company, which is forbidden under the statute and regulations governing the B-1 visa program. Under section 101(a)(15)(B) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, a B-1 visa holder may not come to the U.S. "for the purpose of...performing skilled or unskilled labor."  Under State Department regulations, a B-1 visa holder may not engage in "local employment or labor for hire."  If the allegations against Infosys are substantiated, American workers will have been hurt by this company's fraudulent actions, and the integrity of both the B-1 and H-1B visa programs will have been compromised.
 
More troubling than the illegal ways a company can get around the H-1B program's restrictions using the B-1 visa program are the legal ways companies can use the B-1 visa program to defy the intent of Congress.  For example, the State Department's Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM) currently authorizes the granting of B-1 visas to foreign workers who should otherwise be seeking H-1B visas in cases where the worker is employed by a foreign company and is coming to the U.S. to work at a U.S. client of that foreign company.  Specifically, the FAM states that to qualify for such B-1 in lieu of H-1B visas, "the employee must customarily be employed by the foreign firm, the employing entity must pay the employee's salary, and the source of the employee's salary must be abroad."  Under this low threshold, a company could import workers via the B-1 business visitor visa and evade the H-1B visa cap and prevailing wage requirements that would otherwise apply to such workers so long as the workers could show that their paychecks were still coming from the foreign company.  I believe a thorough review of the "B-1 in lieu of H-1B" provision in the Foreign Affairs Manual is warranted by both of your Departments, especially at a time when American workers are vying against foreign workers for employment in this country.
 
In light of the allegations against Infosys, and the potential for other employers to abuse the B-1 visa to get around the H-1B visa program, I would appreciate your cooperation to get to the bottom of the situation.  I would also like information about how the B-1 visa is being used by employers and processed by consular officers, including the following:
 
Statistics with regard to the numerical distribution of B-1 visas, including which employers are using them, how many B-1 visas are petitioned for and approved each year, and the lengths of time a visa holder remains in the United States on a B-1 visa.
 
The number of "B-1 in lieu of H-1B" visas issued each year for the past five years, including the posts where such visas were issued, the U.S. companies hosting such workers, and the foreign companies paying the worker's salary.
 
How does the Department of State verify an employer's claim that a B-1 visa holder will attend a meeting, convention, or other business appointment in the United States? 
 
What actions, if any, are being taken against employers who abuse the B-1 visa program?  Will the Departments consider barring such employers from any visa program if found guilty of misusing the visa system?  Will the Departments cease to approve visas for Infosys until the lawsuit in Alabama is settled?  If not, what additional oversight and/or actions will be taken until the Infosys lawsuit is finalized?
 
What is the legal basis for the State Department's policy known as "B-1 in lieu of H-1B"?  The Immigration and Naturalization Service, in 1993, proposed a regulation to eliminate the "B-1 in lieu of H" category citing inconsistency with Congressional intent.  Will the Department consider changes to the Foreign Affairs Manual so that this means of entry is not abused?  Will the Department consider eliminating this provision altogether?  How does the Department of Homeland Security feel about this State Department policy today? 
 
My hope is that your Departments will cooperate to make sure that the B-1 visa program is not being abused by employers who wish to get around the annual caps and prevailing wage requirements imposed by the H-1B visa program.  I look forward to your review of the issues I have raised, and would appreciate a response to my questions no later than April 28, 2011. 
 
                                                            Sincerely, 
 
                                                            Charles E. Grassley
                                                            United States Senator

May 24, 2011 -- Operation Gratitude today announced that in commemoration of the anniversary of President Ronald Reagan's passing, Michael Reagan, members of his family and representatives of the Reagan Legacy Foundation will join hundreds of volunteers at the California Army National Guard armory on Sunday, June 5, to assemble care packages for the 5,000 crew members deployed aboard aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan, named in honor of the 40th President of the United States. Care packages will also be assembled and shipped to the crew of guided-missile destroyer USS Preble and guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville, both currently serving in the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group.

"During this patriotic time of year -- between Memorial Day and the 4th of July -- we are honored to support the brave men and women of the U.S. Military serving on the namesake ship of a legendary leader, President Ronald Reagan," said Carolyn Blashek, founder of Operation Gratitude. "All of us at Operation Gratitude are inspired by the service of these great Americans and hope our care packages will in some small way express to the Sailors and Marines our feelings of enormous respect and appreciation." 

The USS Ronald Reagan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin B. Gray.)

Christened on March 4, 2001, by former First Lady Nancy Reagan, USS Ronald Reagan deployed from its homeport of San Diego in February. In March, USS Ronald Reagan and others in its Strike Group were the first to arrive and provide disaster relief and humanitarian assistance to the Japanese people affected by the 9.0 earthquake and ensuing tsunami.

"My family and I can think of no better way to honor the memory of my father than to be with prideful Americans who are volunteering their time to send a special gift of thanks from home to our deployed heroes," said Michael Reagan. Michael and his wife Colleen are regular visitors on board USS Ronald Reagan.

During the formal Program scheduled for 11:30am, Victory Motorcycles' External Relations Manager, Robert Pandya, will present the Motorcycle gifted in Operation Gratitude's 600,000th care package. That milestone package was delivered on Christmas day by the Commandant of the Marine Corps, General James Amos, to an infantryman of the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment who at the time was serving a seven-month deployment in the deadly Sangin district of Aghanistan's Helmand province. The 3/5, also known as the "Dark Horse Battalion," experienced heavy combat throughout the deployment, with 25 of its men killed and more than 150 wounded. The 600,000th package recipient, along with his 3/5 comrades, returned to Camp Pendleton in April. The Marine, who received the package containing symbolic keys to the bike, will join the Operation Gratitude volunteers and guests at the armory on Sunday June 5 to receive the Victory Vegas 8-Ball Motorcycle, generously donated by Victory Motorcycles.

The media and members of the public (aged 12 years and older) are invited to attend the day's activities.

WHAT: Operation Gratitude Volunteers assemble Care Packages for the Crew of USS Ronald Reagan, USS Preble and USS Chancellorsville; Presentation of Victory Motorcycle to Marine Corporal

WHEN: Sunday June 5, 2011
           Care Package Assembly starts at 9 a.m.
           Program and Presentation will occur: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: California National Guard Armory
             17330 Victory Boulevard
             Van Nuys, CA 91406
             Corner of Victory and Louise; parking available on adjacent lot

June 7th at 1 PM & 7 PM: The Mississippi Valley Quilters Guild features Janette Dwyer, with her trunk show & lecture on "The Grand Ladies of Quilting...and a Gent".  Janette is a Professional Quilt Appraiser and a former local Quilt shop owner.  She will be doing Quilt Appraisals between programs.  Spaces are limited.  Sign up sheet will be on the program table.

The Mississippi Valley Quilters Guild, organized in 1983, to educate and encourage members in the quilting arts, and to stimulate interest in quilting in the local community.  Guild meetings are the first Tuesday of the month, at 1 PM and 7 PM, at the First Congregational Church, Moline, IL.  Current membership of 350, and is open to anyone who is interested.  Meetings consist of a business meeting, local, regional or national teachers, and a show-and-tell of projects completed by our members.  

The quilt guild participates in many community charity activities by donating time and quilts to organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Family Resources, Crisis Pregnancy and Lutheran Social Services. The guild provides community educational demonstrations at local venues, with a biennial quilt show, held at the Mississippi Valley Fair Ground.  

For more information about the Mississippi Valley Quilters Guild, visit our website at mvqg.org.

[MAQUOKETA, IA] Maquoketa Art Experience has created a Study in Portraits month scheduled for June 6-19 that offers something for everyone. June programming includes a mezzo-relief sculpture workshop with renowned wood sculptor Fred Cogelow, a public painting demonstration by internationally acclaimed painter Rose Frantzen, and a portrait writing workshop by Free River Press Executive Director, Robert Wolf.

Fred Cogelow: Mezzo Relief Sculpture Workshop

In conjunction with the International Woodcarvers Congress in Maquoketa, Iowa, award-winning wood sculptor Fred Cogelow will teach a five-day workshop at Maquoketa Art Experience, June 6-10, exploring the creation of ¾ Profile Portraiture in Mezzo-Relief. Fred Cogelow is considered by many to be the greatest wood sculptor working in the United States. A self-taught reductive carver, Cogelow has been winning awards and honors throughout the Midwest and across the country since 1983. His work is included in private collections in Norway, Sweden, South Africa, and across the United States. This workshop is designed for an advanced carver/sculptor. Students interested in this workshop should possess a skill level of moderate to advanced, or at least an appreciation of anatomy, detail, and engineering. As a part of Cogelow's visit to Iowa, a 6-foot sculpture of Zona, a life-sized woman sculpture piece will be on display at the Dubuque Museum of Art, June 6-11. Cogelow will enter Zona into the sculpture competition at 2011 International Woodcarvers Congress June 13-19 in Maquoketa. The June workshop is the last one that Fred Cogleow will be teaching until 2014. Registration information is available at www.maquoketa-art.org or call 563.652.9925.

Rose Frantzen: Portrait Painting Demonstration

Internationally acclaimed Iowa artist Rose Frantzen will offer a portrait painting demonstration on Saturday, June 11 at Maquoketa Art Experience. All ticket holders will enter into a drawing to serve as the model for the portrait and will take the finished portrait home with them at the end of the day. Doors will open at 10 a.m. with the drawing for the model at 11 a.m. You must be present to win. No one under 16 years old is eligible to participate in the drawing, but those under 16 are invited to purchase a ticket to observe the demonstration at a separate ticket price.

Frantzen is the creator of the Portrait of Maquoketa collection, a 180 piece community portrait series painted using volunteer models from her home town. Portrait of Maquoketa was on exhibit at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery in 2009-2010.

The painting demonstration will consist of painting a live model while Frantzen discusses her painting process, and her experience judging demonstrations at national events. The proceeds from this event serve as a fundraiser for Maquoketa Art Experience, a non profit arts organization whose mission is to build community through arts outreach. For ticket information visit www.maquoketa-art.org or call 563.652.9925.


Robert Wolf: Portrait Writing Workshop

Free River Press executive director Robert Wolf has designed a three-day portrait writing workshop, scheduled for June 17-19 at Maquoketa Art Experience. This workshop is created for people of all ages, and while the practiced writer will find it useful, the workshop was designed with the amateur in mind.

Wolf is the author of Heartland Portrait, a collection of stories created from portrait writing that explores sense of place and captures the voice of America's heartland through storytelling.
The aim of this portrait writing workshop is for each participant to complete at least one portrait of a person or place at the end of three days. The basis for the work is in storytelling, with the storyteller's emphasis on imagery (visualization) and dialogue. For those participants who want to expand beyond their comfort zone, Wolf encourages experimentation. This may include the use of fragments or employing techniques used by contemporary poets. Registration information is available at www.maquoketa-art.org or call 563.652.9925.

For further information about Maquoketa Art Experience's Study in Portraits month or to participate in the workshops or purchase tickets for the portrait demonstration, contact Paula Neuhaus at maquoketaartexperience@hotmail.com or call 563.652.9925.

Maquoketa Art Experience programming is made possible in part by a grant from the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs.

# # #

Pages