09 Aug 2011

Governor Quinn Signs Legislation to Boost Economic Development in Quad Cities

By Katelyn Tye

Announces Support for Northwest Illinois Company to Expand, Creating and Retaining Nearly 100 Jobs

CHICAGO - August 8, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today signed legislation to expand the Quad Cities Regional Economic Development Authority, which will encourage greater economic development in Northwest Illinois. The Governor's signature comes as Tennant Truck Lines, Inc. announces an expansion that will create and retain close to 100 jobs. The new law reflects Governor Quinn's aggressive business agenda that is creating jobs in every region of the state and growing the economy.

"Powerful economic tools like this new law demonstrate our commitment to creating jobs and making Illinois even more competitive in the global economy," said Governor Quinn. "This legislation helps local governments in Northwest Illinois to attract and develop businesses in the region, growing the economy."

Senate Bill 1755, sponsored by Sen. Mike Jacobs (D-Moline) and Rep. Patrick Verschoore (D-Rock Island), amends the Quad Cities Regional Economic Development Authority Act by expanding the geographic area of the authority. The authority currently includes Rock Island, Henry, Knox and Mercer counties. The new area will also include Jo Daviess, Carroll, Whiteside, Stephenson and Lee counties. Senate Bill 1755 also expands the governing board of the authority from 11 to 16 by adding a member from each of the five additional counties. New members will be appointed by each of their respective county board chairs.

Illinois law gives regional economic development authorities power to issue bonds on behalf of a company to help facilitate economic development. The Quad Cities Regional Economic Development Authority focuses its development in three main project areas: manufacturing, not-for-profit and senior housing.

Governor Quinn's signature comes as Tennant Truck Lines, Inc., a family-owned and operated transportation and logistics company located in the Quad Cities, plans to invest $3 million to merge their headquarters and logistics operations into one facility in Colona, creating 30 new jobs and retaining 65 full-time jobs. The new site will allow the company to keep existing functions in Illinois and provide room for expansion of both headquarter and logistics functions. The state will provide a more than $1 million business investment package in the form of job creation tax credits spread out over 10 years and an employer training grant to leverage the private investment.

Governor Quinn's aggressive business agenda is creating jobs, growing the economy and encouraging economic development in every region of the state. In June, Governor Quinn awarded more than $10.4 million through the "IKE" Disaster Recovery Program to communities throughout Northwest Illinois to assist with water and sewer improvements and other critical public infrastructure needs. Through the state's economic development agency, Illinois has a wide range of programs and services available to help businesses of all sizes remain competitive.

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09 Aug 2011

German Language Classes

By Kathryn Davis

The German American Heritage Center is offering German Language Classes to be held on twelve consecutive Thursdays beginning September 1 through November 17.

 

The Level l Beginning Class will be 5:00 - 6:30

The Level ll Advanced Class will be 7:00 - 8:30


The course is $95.00 for non GAHC members and$75.00 for GAHC members plus $20 for the textbook (members receive a 10% discount off books purchased at the GAHC.) 

 

 

Registrations are due by phone at (563)322-8844 or by email at info@gahc.org by August 26.

09 Aug 2011

CALLING ALL ST. KATHARINE'S (ST. KIT'S), ST. KATHARINE'S-ST. MARK'S, AND RIVERMONT COLLEGIATE ALUMNI!

By Administrator

St. Katharine's School, St. Katharine's-St. Mark's, and now Rivermont Collegiate - what a history!  Rivermont has been developing intellect and inspiring creativity in Quad City area students since 1884!  Rivermont invites all alumni to join us for food, friends, and fond memories on Saturday, August 13th.  A casual gathering will be held at 2:00 p.m. on the Rivermont campus, located at 1821 Sunset Drive in Bettendorf. A tentative menu of "hometown" eats includes Happy Joe's pizza and Whitey's ice cream.  Alumni are encouraged to bring spouses, partners, dates, children, siblings, and/or parents.  This event is open to alumni and former students from ALL graduating years!  Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to catch up with classmates and former teachers!   

Our alumni come from St. Katharine's School (affectionately known as St. Kit's), St. Katharine's-St. Mark's School, and now Rivermont.  The school was founded in 1884 and originally organized as St. Katharine's School, an Episcopal boarding school for girls, located at 10th and Tremont Streets in Davenport.  In 1968, St. Katharine's dropped its boarding program, became co-educational, and added St. Mark's to its name.  In 1973, SKSM moved to its present location at 1821 Sunset Drive in Bettendorf, formerly the home of Joseph Bettendorf.  In 1980, the school amicably broke ties with the Episcopal Church and in 2001 the name was changed to Rivermont Collegiate.  Rivermont is the Quad Cities' only private, independent, nonsectarian college prep school, serving preschool through 12th grade.  Students at Rivermont are grounded in the basics, yet encouraged to think analytically and creatively, creating alumni who confidently and enthusiastically meet today's opportunities and challenges.

Alumni who plan to attend should RSVP to Carol Loula at cloula@aol.com.

For additional information on Rivermont Collegiate and/or Saturday's Alumni Event, contact Cindy Murray at (563) 359-1366 ext. 302 or murray@rvmt.org.

-END-

09 Aug 2011

Chick-fil-A at Davenport and Heritage Church to Sponsor Financial Peace University

By Hannah Wagner

WHAT: The Chick-fil-A® restaurant at 2945 E. 53rd St. in Davenport, Ia. will partner with Heritage Church to sponsor a 13-week financial training course called Financial Peace University. The course is taught through video by author and nationally syndicated talk-radio host Dave Ramsey.

Course participants will meet each week to watch a video lesson and participate in discussion groups led by the Chick-fil-A at Davenport. The video course is geared to teach individuals how to beat debt, build wealth, find bargains, invest for the future and give generously. The 13 sessions include the following topics:

  • ·         Lesson 1: Super Saving
  • ·         Lesson 2: Relating With Money
  • ·         Lesson 3: Cash Flow Planning
  • ·         Lesson 4: Dumping Debt
  • ·         Lesson 5: Credit Sharks in Suits
  • ·         Lesson 6: Buyer Beware
  • ·         Lesson 7: Clause and Effect
  • ·         Lesson 8: That's Not Good Enough!
  • ·         Lesson 9: Of Mice and Mutual Funds
  • ·         Lesson 10: From Fruition To Tuition
  • ·         Lesson 11: Working In Your Strengths
  • ·         Lesson 12: Real Estate and Mortgages
  • ·         Lesson 13: The Great Misunderstanding

Those interested in participating are invited to attend an informational meeting at Heritage Church: Bettendorf campus in Bettendorf, Iowa, on Aug. 28 at 12 p.m. and Aug. 29 at 6:30 p.m. The cost of Financial Peace University is $99.51 for an individual and/or couple, and covers the course and all necessary materials.

Registration fees are due by Aug. 29 and can be turned in to Chick-fil-A in Davenport or Heritage Church: Bettendorf campus. Checks can be made out to Chick-fil-A in Davenport. The course will be held at Heritage Church on Mondays beginning Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m. Refreshments will be provided by Chick-fil-A for each session.

For more details about Financial Peace University and other courses offered by Dave Ramsey, please visitwww.daveramsey.com.  

WHEN: Informational meeting:
Sunday, Aug. 28
12 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 29
6:30 p.m.

Registration fees due by:
Monday, Aug. 29
10:30 p.m.

Course begins:
Monday, Sept. 12
6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Chick-fil-A at Davenport
2945 E. 53rd St.
Davenport, IA 52807

(563) 355-1742
Website
Facebook
Twitter

Heritage Church: Bettendorf campus
2700 Middle Rd
Bettendorf, IA 52722
Website

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Davenport Chick-fil-A Invites Community to August Events

WHAT: The Chick-fil-A® restaurant at 2945 E. 53rd St. in Davenport, Ia. is offering a series of activities throughout August for families to enjoy. The community is invited to take part in the following events:

 

Toddler Time
9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30
Children can enjoy storytelling, crafts, music and playtime in the indoor playground. Parents will receive a free small coffee or hot chocolate.

Family Night
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 4, 11, 18 and 25 

Children will receive a free Icedream® with the purchase of a Chick-fil-A® Kid's Meal, and they can top it off with toppings of their choice from the sundae bar. The Chick-fil-A "Eat Mor Chikin®" Cow will appear at every Family Night to greet the kids.    

  • Bubble Night, Aug. 4: Children are invited to create their own bubble wand to take home.
  • Pajama Party, Aug. 11: Kids who dress in pajamas will receive a free Chick-fil-A® Chicken Nugget Kids Meal (four-count). There will also be a craft station where children can create their own pillowcase.
  • Back to School Night, Aug. 18: Children are invited to create a pencil case and pencil-topper.
  • Prince/Princess Night, Aug. 25: Kids who dress in prince- or princess-wear will receive a free Chick-fil-A®Chicken Nugget Kid's Meal (four-count). They can also create a crown at the craft station.

Senior Breakfast
7 - 10 a.m. 
Thursday, Aug. 4, 11, 18 and 25 
Seniors will receive 25% off all purchases.

All Pro Dads Day
9 - 10 a.m.
Saturday, Aug. 6
All Pro Dads meets the first Saturday of every month. During this breakfast hour, dads and their children will receive a free Chick-fil-A Breakfast entrée. Prizes will also be given each month.

WHERE:         
Chick-fil-A at Davenport
2945 E. 53rd St.
Davenport, IA 52807

(563) 355-1742
Website
Facebook
Twitter

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09 Aug 2011

Iowa's Largest Art Show Joins Butter Cow Celebration at the Iowa State Fair

By readMedia

DES MOINES, IA (08/08/2011)(readMedia)-- The Patty and Jim Cownie Cultural Center will be bursting with fine art at the 2011 Iowa State Fair. Home to Iowa's largest art show, the Cultural Center features sand sculptures, art activities, demonstrations and much more. As the Fair celebrates 100 years of the Butter Cow, art throughout the Cultural Center will pay tribute to Iowa's buttery icon August 11-21.

Sandscapes, a team of national, international and world champion sand sculptors, returns to the Cultural Center atrium to construct a Butter Cow-themed masterpiece. Watch the progress unfold as the team works throughout the Fair to complete the sculpture, showcasing their talents from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the atrium each day.

Stop by to see the outstanding art entered in this year's Fair. The state's largest art show will showcase exhibits in the areas of fine arts, photography, creative arts, wood projects and doll house and miniature room displays. Several special Butter Cow categories promise to provide creative commemorations of the world-renowned buttery bovine.

Fairgoers can even let their creativity loose and try their hands at making art. Make and Take projects available in the Cultural Center include name bracelets, candles and blown glass ornaments. Youngsters will also have a special chance to make a masterpiece at Art Attack. Occurring daily from 1-5 p.m. in the courtyard, Art Attack features special arts and crafts activities for kids to make and then take home.

Live demonstrations and working exhibits also offer Fairgoers the opportunity to see art in action, with artists demonstrating such art forms as wood carving, cardboard art, charcoal portraits and many more.

For a complete schedule of activities in the Cultural Center, visit iowastatefair.org.

"Nothing Compares" to the 2011 Iowa State Fair, celebrating 100 years of the Butter Cow August 11-21. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visitwww.iowastatefair.org.

* * *

09 Aug 2011

Governor Quinn Signs Legislation to Advance Wind Energy in Illinois

By Katelyn Tye

New Laws Give State Additional Tools to Grow Green Economy

CHICAGO - August 7, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today announced the signing of two bills into law that advance clean wind energy in Illinois. The new laws create a council to study offshore wind energy projects in Lake Michigan and clear the way for more wind energy projects throughout Illinois.

"These bills give the state additional tools to further enhance Illinois' growing renewable energy industry," Governor Quinn said. "A thriving green energy sector will further strengthen Illinois' economy, create jobs and boost our economic recovery."

House Bill 1558, sponsored by Rep. Robyn Gabel (D-Evanston) and Sen. Jeff Schoenberg (D-Evanston), creates the Lake Michigan Offshore Wind Energy Advisory Council within the Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). The council will review the potential for wind energy projects in the waters of Lake Michigan. It will be chaired by the director of the IDNR and will be made up of representatives from state agencies and organizations that include environmental, tourism, education and energy entities.

"Offshore wind power provides our communities an incredible opportunity for clean and efficient energy, and helps our state achieve its energy independence goals," Gabel said. "With this unique opportunity, however, comes new challenges, and it is important that we undertake this process to set the right guidelines from the start. I would like to thank Governor Quinn for signing this into law."

After examining wildlife impact, protected habitats and recreational uses of Lake Michigan, the council will identify locations that would be appropriate for offshore wind development. The council will present its recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly by June 30, 2012. The law goes into effect immediately.

Governor Quinn also signed House Bill 1487, sponsored by Rep. Chad Hays (R-Catlin) and Sen. Mike Frerichs (D-Champaign). The new law creates the Renewable Energy Production District Act, which allows county boards to establish renewable energy districts or wind farm districts. Under the new law, such a district would receive approval through a voter referendum.

House Bill 1487 goes in effect immediately.

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09 Aug 2011

Your chance to see Cubs vs. Cardinals at Wrigley Field!

By Davenport Parks and Recreation

It's the dream of every baseball fan in the Midwest. Now it's your chance to visit Wrigley Field to watch the Cubs play the Cardinals!

 

Calling all Cubs and Cardinals fans! Join us for a Cubs vs. St. Louis Cardinals game on Friday, August 19. We leave the River's Edge at 8:00 am, arriving Wrigley field by noon. Game start time is 1:20 pm. Our bus will depart Wrigley field promptly after game, and arrive back at the River's Edge around 8:00 pm. Your price includes game ticket and transportation.  Cost per person is $95.00.

 

Hurry! Limited space. Only a few tickets left.

Register online at www.cityofdavenportiowa.com/parks or at the River's Edge.  For questions, call 563-326-7812.

cubs

 

When: Friday, August 19, 8:00 AM

Where: Leave from the River's Edge

Cost: $95 includes transportation and tickets

09 Aug 2011

Governor Quinn Signs Bill To Help Sex Trafficking Victims Rebuild Their Lives

By Katelyn Tye

New Law Will Give Victims of Sex Trafficking a Chance to Appeal Prostitution Convictions

CHICAGO - August 6, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today announced a new law that will help victims of sex trafficking who have been charged with prostitution by giving them the opportunity to clear their names. The new law gives victims of sex trafficking a chance to remove their convictions through a court of law.

"Sex trafficking is a truly reprehensible crime that preys on the most vulnerable. Victims deserve a chance to clear their records and rebuild their lives," Governor Quinn said.

Illinois has taken major steps to address human trafficking by passing the 2006 anti-trafficking law and 2010 Safe Children Act, which helps support victims who were forced into the sex trade and have criminal records as a direct result of being trafficked.

Sponsored by Sen. Toi Hutchinson (D-Chicago Heights) and Rep. Karen Yarbrough (D-Maywood), Senate Bill 1036 allows defendants who are victims of human trafficking at the time of their prostitution convictions to file a motion to vacate the conviction if the defendant's participation in the offense was the result of being a victim.

Prostitution convictions limit victims' abilities to access housing, employment education, immigration status and parental rights. The bill also creates a new filing timeline for victims of sex trafficking because they often endure years of abuse at the hands of traffickers and customers before they are able to seek help.

"The most important thing about Senate Bill 1037 is that it makes sure that the judicial system has a mechanism to ensure that a person who has been the victim of a crime is not automatically considered a criminal," Sen. Hutchinson said. "It is good public policy to protect women and children who have been taken advantage of in this most heinous way. They can take the necessary steps to rebuild their lives and become functional members of society after suffering trauma of that magnitude."

"Victims of human trafficking are often forced into prostitution and other crimes against their own will, and too many of them are being prosecuted as criminals," Rep. Yarbrough said. "When we have evidence that involuntary human trafficking was the cause of the crime, even though the victim may not have had the ability or representation to prove it during trial, we must do the right thing and reverse their conviction so they can move on with repairing their lives."

The bill takes effect Jan. 1 and was supported by a variety of institutions, leaders and anti-crime organizations including the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless; Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault; Sargent Shriver Center on Poverty Law; Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation (CAASE); Lutheran Social Services of Illinois; Rape Victim Advocates; Girls Education and Mentoring Services (GEMS); Cook Co. Sheriff Tom Dart and DePaul University College of Law.

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09 Aug 2011

First Army Commander links Army core values with local business

By Robert Saxon
MOLINE, Ill - Lt. Gen. Bednarek, First Army commanding general believes business and Army leaders share some of the same goals and ideals, and this was the focus of his presentation to a group of community leaders at the Quad City chamber's Executive Club meeting at the i Wireless Center Aug 5.

"We are in the same business in developing and shaping our community and the Nation's future leaders, regardless of profession" Bednarek explained. "Grounded in the strength of our core values with dignity and respect; a strong work ethic and a belief in what we stand for. We build coach, train and educate teams to do a job and accomplish a mission."

"You and I know that as we train, build and strengthen the core of our workforce," Bednarek continued. "Whether it's a Soldier in the Army or a worker in a warehouse downtown, we are building stronger citizens, and ultimately a stronger America."

Recently, members of Iowa's 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, were demobilized after returning from Afghanistan. "Great Americans, such as the Red Bulls served nine tough months serving the nation and protecting its national interests," said Bednarek. "Hiring vets is a good will act and good business."

Recalling a recent visit to the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California, Lt. Gen. Bednarek asked a Soldier what he did while he was participating in a training exercise. "Sir, I work at Lowes," he responded.

The First Army welcome event was hosted by the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce to provide the area the opportunity to learn about their mission and how they will tie to their new community.

First Army is a multi-component command that serves as U.S. Forces Command's executive agent for providing training support to reserve component forces. The First Army mission is to mobilize, train, deploy and demobilize Reserve Component units at installations throughout the continental United States. 

-30-
09 Aug 2011

Governor Quinn Signs Bill to Boost Small Businesses Owned by Illinois Veterans

By Katelyn Tye

New Law Helps Small Businesses Participate in State Projects

TINLEY PARK - August 5, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today signed legislation to boost small businesses owned by Illinois Veterans. Under the new law, the state will set an annual goal of 3 percent of every state contract to be set aside for businesses owned by Veterans and service-disabled Veterans.

"Veterans who have taken the initiative to start small businesses and help create jobs should be supported when competing for government contracts," Governor Quinn said. "We must honor the men and women who have honorably served our country. This important law further recognizes the commitment made by those Veterans who have returned home and are working to support their communities."

Sponsored by Sen. Maggie Crotty (D-Oak Forest) and Rep. Linda Chapa LaVia (D-Aurora), Senate Bill 1270 amends the Illinois procurement code to help Veteran-owned small businesses better compete in the state bidding process. To be eligible, the businesses must be based in Illinois and be at least 51 percent owned by Veterans or service-disabled Veterans

The new law sets an annual goal of 3 percent of every state contract to go to service-disabled Veteran-owned small businesses (SDVOSB) and Veteran-owned small businesses (VOSB) with annual gross sales of $75 million or less. Larger Veteran-owned businesses can apply for an exemption if they can demonstrate that a significant number of Veteran-owned suppliers or subcontractors would benefit.

Senate Bill 1270 passed the General Assembly unanimously and was supported by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), JAR Consulting, American Institute of Architects - Illinois Council, American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois, American Institute of Architects and the Illinois Department of Professional Engineers.

The new law takes effect immediately.

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