"None of the Above" Campaign Continues at the State Fair

DES MOINES, IA - Friday, August 13, 2010 - Jonathan Narcisse, an independent candidate for Governor running on the "Iowa Party" ticket submitted nominating petitions containing signatures from nearly 1,900 Iowans from 47 counties and was ballot certified by the Secretary of State's office at close of business August 12, 2010.

The Narcisse For Iowa campaign started collecting signatures in late June following the announcement of Rick Marlar (Washington, IA) as his running mate but discovered last week, on the eve of turning in the signatures, that the Secretary of State's office changed the petition form for the gubernatorial race on their website July 20, 2010. Rather than risk a challenge by using the previously collected signatures, the Narcisse For Iowa campaign started anew. The new signatures, to put an independent on the ballot, were gathered in just over a week.

"The Secretary of State's office was very gracious and provided our campaign a letter approving use of the old petition forms. I knew, however, our campaign had the organizational strength and human resource power to collect the required signatures and secure support from the number of counties required. The window left open before the filing deadline was never daunting to us. It invigorated our team, especially in light of the skepticism that we could even qualify for the ballot, to begin with. We did it in just over a week. Plus, as a former boxer, I appreciate the value of a tune up and this exercise served as an excellent warm up for our official 99 county campaign," stated Narcisse.

Narcisse, who is seven counties short of completing his second 99 county circuit, has seen a rising tide of grassroots support emerge for his "None of the Above" campaign.

"Entering the contest we had strong support from various constituencies - teachers, labor, pro-family Catholics, and the African American community - on the Democratic side - all groups significantly betrayed by the Culver Administration. We have also enjoyed support from significant numbers of constitutionalist and fiscal and social accountability advocates that have heard my views during weekly radio appearances on KWMT in Fort Dodge, KBBG in Waterloo and WHO Radio, with its statewide audience," stated Narcisse.

"One pleasant surprise has been the number of Vander Plaat supporters breaking our way. They understand, despite the rhetoric of candidate Branstad, that his sixteen years in office make it clear he just doesn't care about their priorities. So I'm seeing a lot of that support pour my way especially from rural communities," stated Narcisse.

"Iowans are not enthusiatic about a sixth Branstad/Culver administration. Despite the two waging the most negative campaign in Iowa's history an honest examination of their records, practices, policies and especially their contributors, confirms the differences between these two men are primarily stylistic not substantive. Neither has offered a concrete plan to address the critical challenges facing our state. If they have I'd love to read it," stated Narcisse.

"As a member of the Des Moines School Board I fought for our children, parents, teachers and taxpayers and spoke truth to power without compromise. Iowans are hungry for that type of open, honest and accessible leadership that will place their needs and the needs of their children and this state above partisan and special interest politics. I bring that to the table," stated Narcisse.

"Our campaign also brings to the table real solutions. As I travel around the state, whether I meet with citizens, civic and political leaders or media I white board solutions. I show how we address the challenges of this state and how to pay for those solutions. In these times Iowans want to hear pragmatic ideas and common sense solutions."

The four pillars of the Narcisse for Iowa governance agenda are consistent with the values and priorities of Iowans:

* Creating accountable, efficient, and transparent government;
* Restoring a "World Class Plus" educational system;
* Rebuilding a low tax, free-market, prosperous state economy;
* Create a healthy Iowa by leading by example to fight lifestyle and obesity induced disease

Jonathan Narcisse is a former Des Moines School Board member, publisher and editor of multiple publications, radio show host and community advocate. During the early part of the decade he authored a 3,500 page report analyzing the condition of African-Americans in Iowa's 99 counties, and headed statewide health and education initiatives.

In 2009 Narcisse published "An Iowa Worth Fighting For: A Ten Step Vision Plan for 21st Century Governance." Narcisse evaluates the history of state expenditures versus population, reducing state government, corruption and accountability, tax reform, education reform through parental control and academic entrepreneurship, local control and property rights, public safety and drug interdiction and immigration reform.  The full text of this can be found at www.AnIowaWorthFightingFor.com

He has received more than 400 national, state and local honors and awards including recognition from the Bush (Sr.), Clinton and Bush administrations and the Branstad, Vilsack and Culver administrations. He has finished second twice in national chess competitions and is a multiple state champion. He also had a 17-0 record as a semi-pro boxer while living in the Washington, D.C. area.

He has a son, Johnce, and two daughters, 14 year old daughter, Integrity, an 11 year old daughter, Perseverance and three grandchildren.

Narcisse, who lives in Des Moines, will spend the next ten days at the Iowa State Fair. Following that he will host "Iowa Issue Forums" throughout the state. Details on Jonathan's grassroots campaign can be found at www.NarcisseForIowa.com.  Media can contact Jonathan directly at 515-770-1218, or at jonathan@narcisseforiowa.com.

Durant FFA Student Exhibits Supreme Champion Female in Breeding Beef Show

DES MOINES, IA (08/16/2010)(readMedia)-- Kale Spengler of Durant exhibited the Supreme Champion Female in the FFA Breeding Beef Show Thursday, at the 2010 Iowa State Fair.

Spengler's prize winner topped its breed division to earn the Champion Commercial Heifer title prior to being named the Supreme Female in the day's competition.

Bettendorf Woman Takes Blue Ribbon in South of the Border Contest

DES MOINES, IA (08/16/2010)(readMedia)-- Norita Solt of Bettendorf was awarded first place in the Carlos O'Kelly's Best Mexican Dish contest judged Thursday at the 2010 Iowa State Fair.

Diane Rauh and Sheri Gustafson, both of Des Moines, were awarded second and third place, respectively.

The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. Food Department judging is held in the recently-renovated Elwell Family Food Center sponsored by Blue Bunny.

"Non Stop Fun" at the Iowa State Fair runs through August 22. The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th and East University Avenue, just 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines, and are open 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. each day of the Fair. Exhibit hours may vary. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

325 Daily Seats to Atlanta Remain

MOLINE, IL (August 10, 2010) -- Late this morning, the Metropolitan Airport Authority was officially notified by AirTran Airways that service would be discontinued from Moline to Atlanta, effective November 30, 2010. Service to Orlando, the world's most popular tourist destination, will continue with four non-stop flights per week.

AirTran will begin new non-stop service from the Quad Cities to Fort Myers, FL beginning in the first quarter of 2011. The flight schedule for the Fort Myers service has not yet been announced. Preliminary discussions indicate Fort Myers service would be on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, complimenting the Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday service to Orlando.

AirTran's difficult decision comes after years of strong competition in the Moline/Atlanta marketplace. Delta continues to offer five daily non-stop flights to and from Atlanta on 65-seat aircraft with first class options, convenient flights times, low matching fares and strong global connection opportunities with over 1,000 departures to 226 non-stop destinations from Atlanta.

"Although we are disappointed with AirTran's decision regarding Atlanta," says Bruce Carter, Director of Aviation, "we are pleased that they will be maintaining service to Orlando and adding a new non-stop destination for our Fort Myers passengers."

The Airport Authority continues to explore new non-stop opportunities with AirTran, American, United and Delta, as well as advocating bringing additional new low-cost carriers into the marketplace. The Quad City International Airport remains a strong regional competitive choice for nearly one million travelers annually, with non-stop service to eight major hubs.

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-Airline to Discontinue Atlanta Service and Add Non-Stop Flights to Fort Myers-

MOLINE, Ill., (August 10, 2010) - AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AAI), and Quad Cities International Airport today announced changes to the low-cost carrier's flight schedule.

AirTran Airways flights from Quad Cities to Atlanta will be discontinued on November 30, 2010.

The airline will begin new service from Quad Cities to Fort Myers, Fla., in the first quarter of 2011. "We are making adjustments to our flight schedule to better serve our passengers," said John

Kirby, AirTran Airways' senior director of strategic planning and scheduling. "Our new high-quality, low-cost service to Fort Myers will make getting to one of the most popular destinations on the West coast of Florida easier than ever."

AirTran Airways will continue to offer service from Quad Cities to Orlando, the world's most popular tourist destination, four times per week. "We are excited to maintain the Orlando non-stop flights and add the new non-stop service to Fort Myers in the first quarter of 2011. Orlando and Fort Myers are popular Florida destinations that many of our passengers from Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois will utilize," said Bruce Carter, director of aviation, Quad Cities International Airport. "AirTran and the Quad City airport have been excellent partners in providing low-cost air service for the past 13 years and will continue to explore additional non-stop service opportunities."

AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AAI) and a Fortune 1000 company, has been ranked the number one low cost carrier in the Airline Quality Rating study for the past three years. AirTran Airways is the only major airline with Gogo Inflight Internet on every flight and offers coast-to-coast service on North America's newest all-Boeing fleet. Our low-cost, high-quality product also includes assigned seating, Business Class and complimentary XM Satellite Radio on every flight. To book a flight, visit www.airtran.com.

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Watchdog Group Names Grassley a "Taxpayer Hero"

WASHINGTON - August 10, 2010 - Senator Chuck Grassley has been named a "Taxpayer Hero" by the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste.

The elected representatives earning this designation "demonstrated unparalleled commitment to cutting wasteful spending, reducing the tax burden, and making government more accountable to taxpayers," according to Tom Schatz, the President of the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste.

"The problem isn't that Americans are taxed too little; it's that Washington spends too much," Grassley said.

Grassley is a leader in the effort to stop the massive, across-the-board tax increase on individuals, families and small businesses that will occur on January 1, 2011, if Democratic congressional leaders fail to act by the end of the year to prevent it.  Grassley is spearheading a separate effort to extend tax incentives for renewable energy, including biodiesel and ethanol.  Tens of thousands of green-energy jobs have been lost nationwide because congressional leaders failed to renew the biodiesel tax credit at the end of 2009.  Grassley also has advanced a comprehensive tax relief plan for America's small businesses, where 70 percent of net new jobs are created.  He's urged the President to say no to tax increases and remove the uncertainty about tax policy that is hurting the economic recovery.

Grassley serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Finance, which is responsible for tax policy.

In addition, Grassley conducts proactive, ongoing oversight of the federal bureaucracy to protect taxpayers from waste, fraud and abuse.  And, he continually works to safeguard and strengthen a law he updated in 1986 by empowering whistleblowers.  As a result of his effort, including legislation enacted this year, the False Claims Act has recovered over $22 billion in tax dollars that otherwise would be lost to fraud.  The Grassley provisions of the law, which he originally sponsored with Representative Howard Berman of California, have proven to be the government's most effective weapon against health care fraud.  These amendments also have served as a model for new whistleblower legislation that Grassley has championed for the IRS and SEC.  Grassley also has won enactment of incentives to encourage state-level False Claims Act to fight Medicaid fraud.

News release issued today by the Council for Citizens Against Government Waste:

Taxpayer Watchdog Group Releases 2009 Congressional Ratings

(Washington, D.C.) - The Council for Citizens Against Government Waste (CCAGW) today released its 2009 Congressional Ratings, highlighting the voting records of all 535 members of Congress.  The report identifies members whose stellar voting records protecting taxpayers and saving money have won them the moniker of Taxpayer Hero and Super Hero.  CCAGW's 2009 Congressional Ratings also name hundreds of members who consistently voted against the fiscal interest of taxpayers.

CCAGW's 2009 Congressional Ratings scored 120 votes in the House and 74 in the Senate.  The average for the entire House was 31 percent (a 4 percentage point drop from 2008).  The average for the Senate was 39 percent (a one percentage point drop from 2008).  This year marks the twenty-first anniversary of the Congressional Ratings.

The 2009 Congressional Ratings cover the voting year 2009, the first session of the 111th Congress.  CCAGW rates members on a 0 to 100 percent scale.  Members are placed in the following categories: 0-19 percent Hostile; 20-39 percent Unfriendly; 40-59 percent Lukewarm; 60-79 percent Friendly; 80-99 percent Taxpayer Hero; 100 percent Taxpayer Super Hero.  CCAGW's website, www.ccagw.org, features the complete 2009 Congressional Ratings, including vote descriptions, scorecards for the House and Senate, and averages by chamber, party, and state delegation.

There were a total of seven House "Taxpayer Super Heroes," with a grade of 100 percent:  Reps. Paul Broun (R-Ga.), Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.), Jeb Hensarling (R-Texas), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Mike Pence (R-Ind.), John Shadegg (R-Ariz.), and Lynn Westmoreland (R-Ga.).  In 2009, there were 89 "Taxpayer Heroes" in the House with a grade of 80 percent or above, a 51 percent increase from the 59 in 2008.  The big difference was in the number of Democratic House members with a perfectly abysmal score of zero.  In 2008 there were only 34.  In 2009, however, the number of members with a score of zero skyrocketed to 105, which is 41 percent of the 256 House Democrats.  The lone Democrat in the Taxpayer Hero category was Rep. Walt Minnick (D-Idaho), with 83 percent.

From 2006 through 2008, there were no Senate "Taxpayer Super Heroes" (scoring 100 percent), but fortunately there were two in 2009, Sens. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) and Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.).  There were a total of 29 Senate "Taxpayer Heroes," 52 percent greater than the 14 in 2008.  The two next highest performers were Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) at 99 percent.  There were no senators with a score of zero, compared to 17 in 2008.

"Taxpayer Heroes and Super Heroes demonstrated unparalleled commitment to cutting wasteful spending, reducing the tax burden, and make government more accountable to taxpayers," said CCAGW President Tom Schatz.  "Their ratings are even more impressive given the record number of votes rated by CCAGW and the record number of representatives who could not vote even once to cut wasteful spending or taxes.  While far too many members of Congress on both sides of the Capitol demonstrated little regard for the consequences of failing to reduce the record $1.4 trillion deficit and $13 trillion debt, the Taxpayer Heroes and Super Heroes give taxpayers hope for the future."

The Council for Citizens Against Government Waste is the lobbying arm of Citizens Against Government Waste, the nation's largest nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement in government.

TEANECK, NJ (08/10/2010)(readMedia)-- Elizabeth Lonning, of Davenport , IA, a student on Fairleigh Dickinson University's Metropolitan Campus, located in Teaneck, N.J. has graduated as of May 2010.

The University's Metropolitan Campus for Professional and International Studies, located in the dynamic NY/NJ corridor in Teaneck, N.J., features a university atmosphere with an international perspective, attracting students from the U.S. and around the world. Undergraduates have access to the resources of a major graduate center and nearby New York City as an integral part of their learning experience.

Bloomington, Ill, August 10, 2010 - The State Farm Youth Advisory Board is accepting applications for board members to administer a unique grant program that empowers youth to take an active role in their education through service-learning.

The board, made up of a diverse group of students, ages 17-20, is selected based on State Farm's review of their applications and telephone interviews with the top 10 applicants by the State Farm zone in which they live. One board member and one associate board member represent each of State Farm's 13 zones from across the U.S. and Canada. Four additional one-year board members represent State Farm's Community Alliances partners and corporate. Students chosen present a clear understanding of service-learning and its value to communities.

Board members are charged with designing and implementing a $5 million per year signature service-learning initiative by administering grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000. The initiative addresses issues important to students, State Farm and communities across America, such as financial education, disaster preparedness, driver safety, environmental responsibility and access to higher education.

Associate board members who successfully complete their first-year term become board members for a second year. Each member commits about 15 hours a month to the board and participates in four meetings throughout the year. One of these meetings takes place at the annual National Service-Learning Conference.

For more information on the State Farm Youth Advisory Board and how to apply for board membership, visit http://www.statefarmyab.com.  The deadline for applications is Sept. 10.

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New Law Prohibits Employers from Discriminating Based on a Job Seeker or Employee's Credit History

CHICAGO - August 10, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today signed a bill into law that prohibits Illinois employers from discriminating based on a job seeker or employee's credit history. The new law will remove a significant barrier to employment for the growing segment of the population whose credit history has been affected by the historic national recession.

"A job seeker's ability to earn a decent living should not depend on how well they are weathering the greatest economic recession since the 1930s," said Governor Quinn. "This law will stop employers from denying a job or promotion based on information that is not an indicator of a person's character or ability to do a job well."

House Bill 4658, sponsored by Rep. Jack Franks (D-Woodstock) and Sen. Don Harmon (D-Oak Park), creates the Employee Credit Privacy Act. Under the act, Illinois' employers may not use a person's credit history to determine employment, recruiting, discharge or compensation.

The new law forbids employers from inquiring about an applicant or employee's credit history or obtaining a copy of their credit report. The law does not affect an employer's ability to conduct a thorough background investigation that does not contain a credit history or report.

Employers who violate the new law can be subject to civil liability for damages or injunctive relief.

Under the new law, employers may access credit checks under limited circumstances, including positions that involve: bonding or security per state or federal law; unsupervised access to more than $2,500; signatory power over businesses assets of more than $100; management and control of the business; access to personal, financial or confidential information, trade secrets, or state or national security information.

Pre-employment credit screenings are on the rise throughout the nation. The Society for Human Resources Management recently found that 60 percent of employers run a credit check on at least some applicants. That is an increase from the 42 percent in 2006 and 25 percent in 1998.

The new law takes effect Jan. 1, 2011.

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"None of the Above" Campaign

Continues at the State Fair


DES MOINES, IA - Friday, August 13, 2010 - Jonathan Narcisse, an independent candidate for Governor running on the "Iowa Party" ticket submitted nominating petitions containing signatures from nearly 1,900 Iowans from 47 counties and was ballot certified by the Secretary of State's office at close of business August 12, 2010.

The Narcisse For Iowa campaign started collecting signatures in late June following the announcement of Rick Marlar (Washington, IA) as his running mate but discovered last week, on the eve of turning in the signatures, that the Secretary of State's office changed the petition form for the gubernatorial race on their website July 20, 2010. Rather than risk a challenge by using the previously collected signatures, the Narcisse For Iowa campaign started anew. The new signatures, to put an independent on the ballot, were gathered in just over a week.

"The Secretary of State's office was very gracious and provided our campaign a letter approving use of the old petition forms. I knew, however, our campaign had the organizational strength and human resource power to collect the required signatures and secure support from the number of counties required. The window left open before the filing deadline was never daunting to us. It invigorated our team, especially in light of the skepticism that we could even qualify for the ballot, to begin with. We did it in just over a week. Plus, as a former boxer, I appreciate the value of a tune up and this exercise served as an excellent warm up for our official 99 county campaign," stated Narcisse.

Narcisse, who is seven counties short of completing his second 99 county circuit, has seen a rising tide of grassroots support emerge for his "None of the Above" campaign.

"Entering the contest we had strong support from various constituencies - teachers, labor, pro-family Catholics, and the African American community - on the Democratic side - all groups significantly betrayed by the Culver Administration. We have also enjoyed support from significant numbers of constitutionalist and fiscal and social accountability advocates that have heard my views during weekly radio appearances on KWMT in Fort Dodge, KBBG in Waterloo and WHO Radio, with its statewide audience," stated Narcisse.

"One pleasant surprise has been the number of Vander Plaat supporters breaking our way. They understand, despite the rhetoric of candidate Branstad, that his sixteen years in office make it clear he just doesn't care about their priorities. So I'm seeing a lot of that support pour my way especially from rural communities," stated Narcisse.

"Iowans are not enthusiatic about a sixth Branstad/Culver administration. Despite the two waging the most negative campaign in Iowa's history an honest examination of their records, practices, policies and especially their contributors, confirms the differences between these two men are primarily stylistic not substantive. Neither has offered a concrete plan to address the critical challenges facing our state. If they have I'd love to read it," stated Narcisse.

"As a member of the Des Moines School Board I fought for our children, parents, teachers and taxpayers and spoke truth to power without compromise. Iowans are hungry for that type of open, honest and accessible leadership that will place their needs and the needs of their children and this state above partisan and special interest politics. I bring that to the table," stated Narcisse.

"Our campaign also brings to the table real solutions. As I travel around the state, whether I meet with citizens, civic and political leaders or media I white board solutions. I show how we address the challenges of this state and how to pay for those solutions. In these times Iowans want to hear pragmatic ideas and common sense solutions."

The four pillars of the Narcisse for Iowa governance agenda are consistent with the values and priorities of Iowans:

* Creating accountable, efficient, and transparent government;
* Restoring a "World Class Plus" educational system;
* Rebuilding a low tax, free-market, prosperous state economy;
* Create a healthy Iowa by leading by example to fight lifestyle and obesity induced disease

Jonathan Narcisse is a former Des Moines School Board member, publisher and editor of multiple publications, radio show host and community advocate. During the early part of the decade he authored a 3,500 page report analyzing the condition of African-Americans in Iowa's 99 counties, and headed statewide health and education initiatives.

In 2009 Narcisse published "An Iowa Worth Fighting For: A Ten Step Vision Plan for 21st Century Governance." Narcisse evaluates the history of state expenditures versus population, reducing state government, corruption and accountability, tax reform, education reform through parental control and academic entrepreneurship, local control and property rights, public safety and drug interdiction and immigration reform.  The full text of this can be found at www.AnIowaWorthFightingFor.com

He has received more than 400 national, state and local honors and awards including recognition from the Bush (Sr.), Clinton and Bush administrations and the Branstad, Vilsack and Culver administrations. He has finished second twice in national chess competitions and is a multiple state champion. He also had a 17-0 record as a semi-pro boxer while living in the Washington, D.C. area.

He has a son, Johnce, and two daughters, 14 year old daughter, Integrity, an 11 year old daughter, Perseverance and three grandchildren.

Narcisse, who lives in Des Moines, will spend the next ten days at the Iowa State Fair. Following that he will host "Iowa Issue Forums" throughout the state. Details on Jonathan's grassroots campaign can be found at www.NarcisseForIowa.com.  Media can contact Jonathan directly at 515-770-1218, or at jonathan@narcisseforiowa.com.

2010 Citizen of the Year - Category Winners

Every year, people in the Rock Island community are nominated by their peers for what they do for the community. The City of Rock Island is pleased to announce the 2010 Citizens of the Year in eight categories. During the August 23, 2010 City Council meeting, the overall "Citizen of the Year," who will serve as Grand Marshal of the Labor Day Parade, will be announced.

Business Category - Chris Elsberg Insurance Agency, Inc.
Chris Elsberg Insurance Agency, Inc. at 3700 11th Street has been a part of Rock Island since Feb. 1988. Chris and her business are both active in many community endeavors. She has been a member of Zonta and the office is a drop off site for First Day Fund donations. She has been an active member of several PTA's and her office helps out with Christmas baskets and gifts during the holidays for those in need. Chris and her girls regularly volunteer to serve meals to the homeless at St. Joseph's. Chris wants people to have a good impression of Rock Island. She wants the young people to want to stay here because it is a good place to be. Teaching people to RESPECT Rock Island is important to her.

Professional Category - Berlinda Tyler-Jamison
Berlinda Tyler-Jamison serves as the president of Trinity Health Foundation. She is engaged in community health initiatives that focus on access to health care and the preservation of this access. She is a natural consensus builder who understands and respects the process involved with any organization. Ms. Tyler-Jamison is active and involved with many community organizations and causes. She is committed to helping Rock Island move forward and is a strong role model for all, young and old.

Education Category - Grace Diaz Shirk
Grace Diaz Shirk teaches Spanish at Rock Island High School. She teaches more than just the language. Her students grow to understand the cultures of those who speak the language, both close to home and around the globe. Her Spanish Club is among the most active at Rocky. When those who were interested in preserving Rocky's annual Student Talent Show were looking for someone who would be able to work to pull things together, they looked to  race. Grace's contributions to the community go well beyond the school and classroom walls. Grace has served on the Rock Island City Council and is currently a Trustee for South Rock Island Township. And...Grace has been a long-time member of the Labor Day Parade committee.

Organization Category - Augustana College
Augustana College has called Rock Island home for 135 years of its 150 year history. At the time of the dedication of the first building on the Rock Island campus, then president, T.L. Hasselquist, said, "The constant and friendly interactions between college and community accrue to the distinct advantages of both." That was true then and remains true today. With a $75 million dollar impact on the community and a faculty and staff numbering 750, the economic benefit is easy to see. The benefits go a long way beyond the economics. There are the museums, the public radio station, the lectures and concerts open to all, the role of Augie volunteers in the community and some outstanding athletic teams. The Education Department is now partnering with Longfellow Elementary School.

Individual Category - Mark W. Schwiebert
No one individual has had his name more closely associated with Rock Island over the past three decades than Mark Schwiebert. His accomplishments as alderman and mayor are well documented. Mark became more than just the face of Rock Island, in many ways he became the face of the Quad Cities. His strong belief that fostering cooperation between communities would be for the benefit of all led to many of the organizations and initiatives that are in place today. Mark Schwiebert remained a strong voice for the Rock Island Arsenal when its future was in jeopardy. The Mark Schwiebert that many might not know is a runner and cross-country skier, an artist and poet, a traveler and noted historian.

City Employee Category - Patrick Doherty
Patrick Doherty serves Rock Island as Risk Manager in the Administrative Services Department. While not necessarily visible to many who live in Rock Island, he is highly visible to those who work for the city. Perhaps as the job title implies, if something goes wrong, it is up to Patrick Doherty to fix things up. His job, however, also means looking forward trying to identify programs and ventures that benefit both the city and its employees. It is through his initiative and leadership that the position of on-site nurse was created. The impact has been tremendous. Not only do employees gain prompt access to medical needs, the city's health care plan has realized savings due to fewer calls for additional medical care. Patrick's team put together a very successful Health and Wellness fair for employees this year.

Youth Category - Chasson Randle
Chasson Randle has brought honor and distinction to himself, Rock Island, and the entire Quad Cities through his representation of the U.S.A. in international basketball competition each of the past two summers. He has received All-State recognition and established the career scoring record at Rock Island High School as a junior. Chasson knows that team success is the ultimate goal and is dedicated to making everyone around him a better player and person. On top of all of the basketball accomplishments, Chasson Randle ranks at the top of his class academically.

Youth Category - Ciara Turner
The young students and student/athletes at Rock Island High School have benefited from the high standards that Ciara Turner has left for them to achieve. If they aspire to reach levels of personal success and compassion for the community as Ciara, then our community will benefit in the greatest way. Ciara was an honors student, officer of the Lettermen's Club, member of the Environmental Action Club, a stellar athlete with 10 state medals to include a state championship, and participated in many, many other extra - curricular activities. Through her club work, she participated in many fundraising activities to benefit the less fortunate; she worked on many community cleanup efforts; and she served as a peer mentor through the Natural Helper program. Her involvement and achievements are varied and inspirational.

Honorary Category (does not live in Rock Island) - Chad Pregracke
Chad Pregracke was born and raised in East Moline. He was raised on the river. Anyone surprised? In 1998, he founded Living Lands and Waters. This non-profit environmental organization is committed to more than just cleaning up waterways. They are equally committed to education. Through Chad's efforts, thousands of volunteers have been mobilized and millions and millions of pounds of garbage and waste have been collected. Fortunately, 80% of what is collected is then recycled. X-Stream Cleanup has worked to clean Rock Island riverfronts and ravines. We hope to see more of this wonderful organization on the Discovery Channel in upcoming months.

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