03 Feb 2011

Harkin: Pell Grant Payment Schedules for Next School Year Will Increase Access to College

By Sen. Tom Harkin
Maximum Annual Award Maintained at $5,500


WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) today applauded the Department of Education's release of the new Pell Grant schedules as an important step towards improving access to college.  The schedules determine the Federal Pell Grant awards for the 2011-2012 Academic Year - July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012 - for low-income college students.  The maximum Pell Grant award for this year will be $5,550.  As Chairman of the Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations Subcommittee, Harkin led the effort to fully fund the Pell Grant program in the Continuing Resolution that passed the Senate and was signed into law in December.  Additionally, as Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Harkin worked to eliminate billions of dollars in wasteful subsidies to banks and redirected that money to increase Pell Grants as part of the reconciliation package that was used to provide technical fixes to the health reform bill last March.

"In our efforts to attract and keep good jobs in America - and to stay competitive in the global economy - we must increase the number of students who attend college," said Harkin.  "Currently, there are millions of bright, young people who want to attend school but simply can't because of finances.  That is where the Pell Grant program provides much needed assistance and makes college more affordable for low-income students.  This is a small federal investment that repays itself many times over with a better paid tax base and a more educated work force.

"I am pleased that today the Department of Education has released its schedules so that schools and students can plan accordingly.  This is truly an important step in increasing access to college for all Americans.  Moving forward it is critical that we do all that we can in Congress continue to fund this program that is helping our economy and our future generations."

The Federal Pell Grant Program provides need-based grants to over nine million low-income undergraduate and certain postbaccalaureate students to promote access to postsecondary education.  Students may use their grants at any one of approximately 5,400 participating postsecondary institutions.  Grant amounts are dependent on: the student's expected family contribution; the cost of attendance (as determined by the institution); the student's enrollment status (full-time or part-time); and whether the student attends for a full academic year or less.  To see the full Pell Grant schedule released today click here.
02 Feb 2011

Iowa House Moves Marriage Inequality Amendment Forward

By Paul Guequierre

Senate Majority Leader vows to fight discriminatory amendments

 WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights group, today criticized the Iowa House for passing an amendment to the state constitution that would prohibit any form of relationship recognition for same-sex couples. The amendment passed by a 62 to 37 vote and will now be sent to the Iowa Senate for consideration.

"The actions of the Iowa House have the potential to place families at risk," said HRC President Joe Solmonese. "The people of Iowa deserve better from their representatives. Iowa has a proud tradition of protecting the liberties of all of its citizens and we call upon the Senate to restore that tradition."

"The proposed amendment devalues families and divides Iowans," said One Iowa Executive Director Carolyn Jenison. "The Constitution is meant to protect the freedoms and liberties of all Iowans. It is inappropriate to use the political process to single out and deny a group of Iowans of their constitutional protections. "

House Joint Resolution 6 proposes an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Iowa specifying marriage between one man and one woman as the only legal union that is valid or recognized in the state. The language prohibits civil unions and domestic partnerships as well as marriage for same-sex couples. Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal has vowed to fight any attempt to amend the constitution to discriminate against same-sex couples. In order to end up on the ballot, the proposed amendment must pass through both chambers of the Iowa Legislature in two consecutive legislative sessions.

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

 

# # #

02 Feb 2011

Visa Loophole Allows Terrorists to Stay in U.S.

By Grassley Press

Grassley Works to Close Loophole that Allows Terrorists to Stay in U.S.

WASHINGTON - Senator Chuck Grassley today introduced legislation to close a loophole in U.S. visa policy that could allow foreign nationals remain in the United States after they have had their visa revoked.

Since 2001, the Government Accountability Office has repeatedly sounded the alarm about the weaknesses of the visa revocation process.  Their investigations revealed the extreme difficulty the United States has in deporting suspected terrorists already on U.S. soil if their visa is revoked on terrorism grounds.

"Current law handicaps our law enforcement and makes it nearly impossible to deport a potential terrorist if they are already in the United States," Grassley said.  "We shouldn't allow suspected terrorists to take advantage of our court system and exploit our laws.  Revocations can be a useful anti-terrorism tool that can better project the security of our borders and our nation."

Grassley said that a change in law is needed so that people who wish to do Americans harm are deported, and our nation's intelligence is protected.

If the federal government determines that a visa must be revoked for an individual already on U.S. soil, such individual could be allowed to block deportation using the United States court system.

The bill would treat visa revocations similar to visa denials because the right of that person to be in the United States is no longer valid.  If an individual is denied a visa by the consular officer, there's no judicial review of that decision.  The Grassley bill applies the same standard for individuals on U.S. soil who should not have been granted a visa, limiting their rights to judicial review of such a decision.

The legislation is cosponsored by Senators David Vitter of Louisiana, Orrin Hatch of Utah, John Cornyn of Texas, Jeff Sessions of Alabama and Pat Roberts of Kansas. 

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01 Feb 2011

Moline Family Academy for Feb. 5 Postponed

By readMedia
SPRINGFIELD, IL - 02/01/2011

The Illinois National Guard has made it a priority to help servicemembers when they return from a mobilization or deployment. While the Illinois National Guard continues to reach out to returning veterans with the "Tying the Yellow Ribbon" campaign, the program also focuses on families of troops who are deployed.

The Illinois Army National Guard will conduct four Reintegration Family Academies in February and March.

Although the free academy is open to any family that has a deployed servicemember in any branch of the military, the focus of these events is to reach out to families of Illinois National Guard members that have deployed or who are currently deployed. Approximately 1,000 members of the Illinois National Guard are deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq and Egypt.

The intent of the academy is to ensure families receive information and know the resources available to them while their Soldier is deployed.

"Reintegration is not just a program for Soldiers after a deployment. It's something his or her entire family must also undergo as everyone readjusts to changes that have happened during the course of the Soldier's deployment," said 2nd Lt. Justin Anweiler of Lincoln, reintegration program coordinator. "This is one way the Illinois National Guard is trying to help families of our deployed men and women who are sometimes fighting their own battles at home while their servicemember is fighting a war overseas."

Representatives from several different agencies will be available for family members. Some agencies attending include TRICARE (medical and dental insurance), Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, Internal Revenue Service and Veteran's Health Administration. There will also be several workshops for families to attend providing guidance and information on issues like marriage after deployment, finances, challenges troops face reuniting with their children and using college education benefits. Counselors will also be available for private consultations.

Illinois National Guard Family Academies

Date Location Time

February 5 Blackhawk Community College; 6600 34th Ave., Moline 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. (POSTPONED)

February 27 Kaskaskia College; 2310 W. Fillmore, Vandalia 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

March 12 Blackhawk Community College; 26230 Black Hawk Road, Galva 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

March 13 Devry University; 18624 West Creek Drive, Tinley Park 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

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01 Feb 2011

Galena Wine Lovers' Weekend Expands and Offers Two Grand Tastings

By Tim Althaus
GALENA, Ill. - Coming off of an extremely successful 2010, with the Grand Tasting selling out three weeks prior to the event date, the Galena Wine Lovers' Weekend committee announces that they've added a second Grand Tasting to the wine-focused weekend, allowing even more opportunity and flexibility to attend.

"We are thrilled to offer an additional Grand Tasting on Saturday afternoon as well as Friday evening," said event sponsor Tim Althaus, owner, Family Beer & Liquor. "Over the past six years, this event has continued to grow to be one of the largest indoor wine tasting events in the state. Offering two Grand Tastings allows for even more people to enjoy this great opportunity."

At the heart of Galena Wine Lovers' Weekend, the Grand Tasting and Wine Auction offers epicureans of all levels more than 300 varieties of hand-picked wines and spirits from which to sample. The Grand Tasting will be held at two different times this year: Friday, March 25 from 6-8 p.m. (registration begins at 5:30 p.m.) and on Saturday, March 26 from 4-6 p.m. (registration begins at 3:30 p.m.). Both events are hosted at the Galena Convention Center, 900 Galena Square Drive, Galena, Illinois.

Cost is $30 in advance (purchase online: www.wineloversweekend.com) or $35 at the door (subject to availability). Admission also provides you with a keepsake wine glass and an opportunity to win a wine-themed trip to San Francisco. Additional trip chances may be purchased for $15 each. Auction items include vintage wines, artwork, large format wine bottles and related items of interest.

Now in its sixth year running, Galena Wine Lovers' Weekend is a community-wide celebration of good wine, good food and good friends. Wine lovers of all sorts are invited to enjoy three event-filled days of fine wine, culinary delight, celebrity chefs, wine makers, pampering packages and all of the stops Galena can possibly pull out.

Galena Wine Lovers' Weekend is a spirited way to warm the winter and add romance, whether it is for vino, gourmet cuisine or the history and charm all on its own. Wine-inspired dinners, spirit tastings, spa experiences, history tours, cooking demonstrations and shopping welcome and enchant visitors.

Lodging specials and package deals fuel the passion. From dining packages to pampering in luxurious accommodations and the warmest of hospitality, Galena's finest provide a variety of options to cater to every taste and budget.

Visit www.wineloversweekend.com for a detailed listing of extended-weekend activities, links to lodging, and an opportunity to purchase tickets online. Additional area offerings may be found with the Galena/Jo Daviess County Convention and Visitors Bureau at www.galena.org.
01 Feb 2011

Governor Quinn Activates Illinois National Guard To Assist Stranded Motorists

By Laurel White

Will Coordinate with Illinois State Police to Ensure Traveler Safety

SPRINGFIELD - February 1, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today activated more than 500 Illinois National Guard troops to assist stranded motorists on several interstate highways as part of the state's ongoing efforts to prepare for a large winter storm approaching the state. The troops will be stationed at rest areas along interstate highways, including Interstate 70 and those north of I-70, and will coordinate with Illinois State Police (ISP) to ensure the safety of travelers stranded along the roads.

"We must do everything we can to keep motorists safe during this massive winter storm. Illinois Department of Transportation crews are working non-stop to clear roadways, and the Illinois State Police will also be closely monitoring our highways," said Governor Quinn. "These troops from the Illinois National Guard will help ensure public safety along the roadways, and I urge everyone to exercise caution when traveling."

Illinois National Guard troops deployed for this mission are from the following units:

  • The 2/106th Cavalry Squadron based in Kewanee, with subordinate units from Galva, Dixon and Pontiac, which are being deployed to the northern part of the state.
  • The 766th Engineer Company based in Decatur, the 1844th Transportation Company based in Quincy and the 3637th Maintenance Company based in Springfield, which are being deployed to the central part of the state.
  • The 634th Brigade Support Battalion based in Sullivan and the 233rd Military Police Company based in Springfield, which are being deployed to the southern part of the state.

In addition, an Illinois National Guard headquarters element is being drawn from the 65th Troop Command Brigade and 183rd Fighter Wing, both from Springfield.

Troops stationed along the highways will carry supplies such as water, snack bars and roadside safety tips to provide to stranded motorists. Guard members will also relay information regarding road conditions, vehicle accidents and stranded motorists to ISP officers working in the area.

"I'm proud that the Illinois National Guard is able to play our part in responding to this winter storm," said Maj. Gen. William L. Enyart, the Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard. "Our Soldiers and Airmen respond to the Governor's call to help in state emergencies just as we answer the President's call to serve overseas. It takes selfless citizens to serve in today's National Guard, whether in Illinois or across the world."

Governor Quinn activated the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in Springfield Monday afternoon to coordinate the state's response to the storm. The center will operate around the clock until the storm threat subsides.

Illinois travelers can check on highway conditions by calling 1-800-452-IDOT (4368) or visiting the IDOT's road conditions website at www.gettingaroundillinois.com and clicking on "Winter Road Conditions."

For more information about winter storm safety, visit the Ready Illinois Web site at www.Ready.Illinois.gov.

###

01 Feb 2011

A New Door Opens on Brucemore's Mansion Tour

By Tara Richards

Brucemore, Iowa's only National Trust Historic Site, is proud to announce that a new room will be open to the public when the mansion reopens for guided tours on March 1, 2011. The Preschool Room, located on the mansion's third floor, will be the first room added to the tour in nine years. Used as a preschool for the family and neighborhood children in the 1910s and a guest room in the 1930s, this addition will reveal the way a room's use changes throughout history and provide new levels of enrichment to the tour.

The decision to renovate and open this room to the public was made when the "Bachelor" furniture set was donated to Brucemore in 2009. Irene Douglas, the matriarch of the Douglas family, originally purchased the furniture in 1934 to furnish a guest room for the groom of her youngest daughter Barbara for their wedding. Beyond describing the education provided in the preschool room, the furniture's history will allow the tour to discuss one of the largest social events in Cedar Rapids' history: Barbara Douglas' wedding to Gail Burck in 1934. Over 600 guests attended the reception on Brucemore's First Avenue lawn and other community members joined the celebration for free ice cream distributed at the estate's gates.

"Opening a new room is an exciting opportunity to add depth to our interpretive tour and display objects that have been in collection's storage," said April Kamp-Whittaker, Director of Learning and Museum Projects. "Hopefully it will encourage people to visit either for the first time or to return and see the changes which have been made to the house and tour over the years."

Interpretive guided mansion tours are offered March through December, Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. and Sunday, Noon to 3:00 p.m. Tours are on the hour and last approximately 50 minutes. Admission is $7.00 per adult, $3.00 per student, and free to Brucemore and National Trust members. Reservations required for groups of 10 or more. Handicap accessible, please call for details. For more information, call 319-362-7375 or visit www.brucemore.org.

Brucemore, an 1880s Queen Anne style mansion on a 26-acre park-like estate, is located at 2160 Linden Drive SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403.

###

01 Feb 2011

Governor Quinn Signs Historic Law to Legalize Civil Unions in Illinois

By Andrew Mason

New Law Makes Illinois One of Six States to Recognize Civil Unions

CHICAGO - January 31, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn was joined today by lawmakers, advocates and hundreds of Illinois residents as he signed a historic new law that makes Illinois one of just six states nationwide to legalize civil unions. Senate Bill 1716 ensures that for the first time in state history, couples united under a civil union - including same-sex couples - will have access to the full state legal rights and responsibilities enjoyed by couples that are married.

"Today is an important day in the history of our state because today we are showing the world that the people of Illinois believe in equality for all," said Governor Quinn. "We look forward to individuals and businesses from across the country choosing to move to Illinois where we believe that everyone is entitled to the same rights. I would like to thank Representative Harris and Senator Koehler for their hard work, and I am proud to sign this into law."

Senate Bill 1716, sponsored by Sen. David Koehler (D-Peoria) and Rep. Greg Harris (D-Chicago), creates the Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act. Under the new law, both heterosexual and same-sex couples are allowed to enter into a civil union. By entering into a civil union, couples are afforded the same state rights and protections already entitled to married couples.

"Not often in a legislator's career do you get a chance to make such a significant impact on our state's history, which this bill does by ensuring equality for tens of thousands of Illinois families," said Rep. Harris. "I am very grateful to Governor Quinn for his steadfast support and leadership."

In addition to Illinois, five other states and the District of Columbia have civil unions or similar laws on the books. Those states include California, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon and Washington.

"This bill is important for thousands of Illinoisans and for our state as a whole, and I am honored to have been part of this groundbreaking legislation," said Sen. Koehler.

Prior to Governor Quinn's signature on SB 1716, same-sex couples in Illinois had been denied many rights enjoyed by couples who are married. New rights for couples joined in civil union include : automatic hospital visitation rights and the ability to make emergency medical decisions for partners; ability to share a room in a nursing home; adoption and parental rights; pension benefits; inheritance rights; and the right to dispose of a partner's remains.

The Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act goes into effect June 1.

 

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31 Jan 2011

Governor Quinn Ensures State Preparedness for Winter Storm

By Andrew Mason

Governor Issues State Disaster Declaration Ahead of Storm

SPRINGFIELD - January 31, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today announced that state agencies are working together to prepare for a large winter storm expected to hit the Midwest region starting today. Governor Quinn also issued a disaster declaration for the entire state in advance of the heavy snow, ice and blizzard conditions that are expected over the next few days.

"The entire Midwest region of the country is expected to be hit with a serious winter storm over the next few days, and it is important that we are prepared so that Illinois residents are safe and warm in the days ahead," said Governor Quinn. "We will be increasing efforts to make sure that our roads are clear and that our most vulnerable residents are staying indoors and staying warm."

Governor Quinn activated the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in Springfield this afternoon to coordinate the state's response to the storm. Representatives from more than a dozen state agencies will man the SEOC 24 hours a day throughout the storm.

"We're working closely with local emergency management officials throughout the state to monitor conditions and be ready to provide whatever assistance they may need," said Joe Klinger, interim director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA). "But it's also important that people prepare themselves for this storm by stocking their homes with food, water, flashlights, radios and other necessities."

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Illinois State Police are encouraging drivers to use extra caution on roads and will be increasing efforts to keep motorists safe as driving conditions across the state become hazardous. Motorists can check the condition of Interstates by calling 1-800-452-IDOT (4368); or by visiting www.gettingaroundillinois.com and clicking on "Winter Road Conditions."

The Illinois Department of Aging (IDoA) is taking steps to ensure the safety of senior citizens throughout Illinois. The department has notified providers that they should check on older adults to make sure they have food, water and medication in the event that the storm causes power outages. The IDoA also alerted provider agencies that have generators to make sure that they have fuel on-hand to run them.

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) will provide alternate sites for clients if their regular local office is inaccessible. The department also encourages Illinoisans to take advantage of more than 120 state facilities that serve as warming centers. For a list of participating centers, please visit www.keepwarm.illinois.gov. For information on facility closures, people should call ahead to their local offices for a pre- recorded instructional message. Patient facilities will continue operations throughout the storm.

For additional information about winter storm preparedness measures and important updates throughout the storm, visit the Ready Illinois Web site at www.Ready.Illinois.gov.

 ###

31 Jan 2011

Free Family Day at the Figge

By Stephen Mohr

"Full Steam Ahead!" is the theme of a free family day workshop happening this Saturday, February 5th, at the Figge Art Museum from Noon until 3:00 P. M. Bring your children or grandchildren to this fun family event to celebrate the special exhibition, "Tracks: The Railroad in Photographs from the George Eastman House Collection".  Storytellers will charm participants with railroad stories and musicians will entertain with popular songs inspired by the life and work on the railway. Learn more about rail travel with the "Explore and Learn More" gallery searches and visit the studios to create art projects inspired by locomotives and the railway. The museum will also present three showings of the silent film classic "The Great Train Robbery" in the John Deere Auditorium and at 2:30 P.M. Heritage Documentaries Inc. will present the film "Rock Island Trail" with a brief introduction and slideshow on the film's 1950 premiere in the Quad Cities.

The Figge Arts Café will be open and will provide a family-friendly menu from 11:30 to 2:30 P.M. For more information and museum hours, contact the Figge at 563.326.7804 or visit www.figgeart.org

"Full Steam Ahead!" at the Figge is sponsored by John Deere.

-end-

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