24 May 2010

FIGGE ART MUSEUM TO PARTICIPATE IN BLUE STAR MUSEUMS

By Dan McNeil

The Figge Art Museum is one of more than 600 museums to offer free admission to military personnel and their families this summer

Davenport, Iowa -?Today The Figge Art Museum announced the launch of Blue Star Museums, a partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and more than 600 museums across America to offer free admission to all active duty military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day 2010.   Families can visit the Figge Art Museum at www.figgeart.org for museum hours.  The complete list of participating Blue Star Museums is available at www.arts.gov.


"America's museums are proud to join the rest of the country in thanking our military personnel and their families for their service and sacrifice," said National Endowment for the Arts Chairman Rocco Landesman. "I cannot imagine a better way to do that than welcoming them in to explore and enjoy the extraordinary cultural heritage our museums present.  The works of art on view this summer will inspire and challenge viewers, and sometimes they will just be a great deal of fun."


"There have always been wonderful examples of partnerships between museums and military installations, but the scale of this gift from the museum communities to military families is thrilling," said Blue Star Families Chairman Kathy Roth-Douquet.  "Military families work hard for this country, and it is gratifying for us to be recognized for that.  We anticipate that thousands of military families will participate in the program and visit museums this summer - many of them for the first time.  Blue Star Families will work hard to help our military families make the most of these opportunities."


In addition to being Chairman of Blue Star Families, Ms. Roth-Douquet is married to a Marine Corps officer, who is currently deployed to Afghanistan.  They have two children, and Ms. Roth-Douquet and the children plan to take a road trip this summer to visit Blue Star Museums up and down the East Coast.

More than 600 museums in all 50 states and the District of Columbia are taking part in the initiative.  The American Association of Museums, the Association of Art Museum Directors, and the Association of Children's Museums each sent a letter from NEA Chairman Landesman inviting museums to participate in this program.  In addition to thirty children's museums across the country, participating museums represent a broad range of art, history, science, and cultural topics -- from the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, Texas, to the California Surf Museum in Oceanside, California, to the Mission San Luis, a living history site and historic landmark in Tallahassee, Florida, to the International Quilt Study Center & Museum at the University of Lincoln - Nebraska, the Art Institute of Chicago, Illinois, and the Seacoast Science Center in Rye, New Hampshire.


Blue Star Museums runs from Memorial Day, May 31 through to Labor Day, September 6, 2010.  The free admission program is available to active duty military and their immediate family members (military ID holder and five immediate family members), which includes active duty Reserve and active duty National Guard.  Some special or limited-time museum exhibits may not be included in this free admission program.  For questions on particular exhibits or museums, please contact the museum directly.  To find out which museums are participating, visit www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.  The site includes a list of participating museums and a map to help with visit planning.


This is the latest Arts Endowment program to bring quality arts programs to the military, veterans, and their families.  Other NEA programs for the military have included Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience, Great American Voices Military Base Tour, and Shakespeare in American Communities Military Base Tour.


About Blue Star Families


Blue Star Families is a national, non-partisan, non-profit network of military families from all ranks and services including guard and reserve, with a mission to support, connect and empower military families.  In addition to morale and empowerment programs, Blue Star Families raises awareness of the challenges and strengths of military family life with civilian community and leaders.  Membership includes spouses, kids, parents, service members, veterans and civilians.


Operation Appreciation is an initiative of Blue Star Families that seeks to connect military families to the larger community.  Blue Star Families 2009 annual survey shows that 94 percent of military families feel that the larger community doesn't truly understand or appreciate the sacrifices we make for the country.  Through initiatives such as Blue Star Museums, Blue Star Families provides avenues for the larger community to show that they do understand, in meaningful ways that enrich the lives of military service members, spouses, children and parents.  For more information, please visit www.BlueStarFam.org.

About the National Endowment for the Arts


The NEA is a public agency dedicated to supporting excellence in the arts - both new and established - bringing the arts to all Americans, and providing leadership in arts education.  Established by Congress in 1965 as an independent agency of the federal government, the Arts Endowment is the largest annual national funder of the arts, bringing great art to all 50 states, including rural areas, inner cities, and military bases. For more information, please visit www.arts.gov.

24 May 2010

New National Survey Shows Americans Unprepared for Natural Disasters

By Margarita Tapia

As hurricane and wildfire seasons approach, new national survey reveals urgent need for better disaster preparedness.

ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 24, 2010 - Most Americans are not fully prepared in the event of a natural disaster, according to a new national survey by Trusted Choice® and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big "I").

Of all survey respondents, less than 22% said they felt they are fully prepared in case of a disaster. More than half of respondents (51%) admitted they are only somewhat prepared, and more than a fifth of households (22.7%) reported that they were not prepared at all.

"Hurricane season officially begins on June 1 and other disasters can happen anytime, anywhere, as we recently saw with the devastating floods in Tennessee," says Madelyn Flannagan, Big "I" vice president of agent development, education and research. "Lives and property are saved when people know what to do before, during and after a disaster. This national study further demonstrates that unfortunately most people are not ready in the event of a natural disaster."

The survey further revealed that many households have not even taken the most basic steps to protect against a disaster. For example, more than two-thirds of those surveyed (67.7%) said they had not created a photo or video home inventory of their belongings. More than 40% have not assembled a disaster and emergency supplies kit in their homes. Sixty-eight percent of homeowners have not made any structural improvements or reinforcements to better protect their property from a disaster.

Of all survey participants, almost 36% said they don't have or don't know if they have adequate insurance coverage to help them through a disaster, and an alarming 62% say they have never discussed a complete disaster preparedness plan with an insurance agent.

"Independent insurance agents not only advise clients about insurance, but they're disaster readiness experts," says Robert Rusbuldt, Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big "I") president & CEO. "It is imperative to know what your risks are and what to do in the event of a disaster. We recommend meeting with a Trusted Choice® independent insurance agent who is an expert in assessing your risks and insuring that you, your family and your home are prepared in the event of a disaster."

Trusted Choice® and the Big "I" offer many disaster-specific readiness and recovery tips for consumers. To access them, click on the corresponding headline.

The survey was conducted for Trusted Choice® via telephone by International Communications Research (ICR), an independent research company in Media, Pa. Interviews of a nationally representative sample of 1,006 households were conducted in May 2010. The survey has an overall margin of error of +/- 3.1%. For more information about ICR, go to www.icrsurvey.com.

24 May 2010

Machine Shed Chef Cooks with Kids

By Katrina Padron

Cooking Class Wednesday, May 26th at 6PM

The Machine Shed in Davenport will be hosting a kids cooking class at the restaurant on Wednesday, May 26th from 6PM to 7PM.  Chef Bryan Tyler will lead a cooking class in which the parents/guardians and the children will be making kid friendly recipes. This class is a fun opportunity for kids to learn how to measure and mix ingredients, use kitchen gadgets, follow recipes, learn etiquette, kitchen safety, and nutrition!  Each participant receives a certificate of excellence at the end of class.  This is a great idea for play groups, scouts, and church activities.

The cooking class is free to the public and an adult must attend with their child. This class will be offered monthly, the last Wednesday of each month at 6pm. The next class will be offered June 23rd. For more information or to sign up, please stop in The Machine Shed located at 7250 Northwest Blvd (I-80 - Exit 292) or call 563-391-2427 for more information.

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24 May 2010

Governor Quinn and Secretary of State White Urge Drivers to Avoid Using Cell Phones in Work Zones

By Andrew Mason
CHICAGO - May 24, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn and Secretary of State Jesse White today reminded motorists it is against the law in Illinois to use a cell phone while driving in construction zones.

Over 1.5 million Illinois residents will be taking to the roads over the Memorial Day holiday weekend and distracted driving greatly adds to the risk of those working or driving within summertime construction zones. Last year, 31 people were killed in construction zone crashes, including five who were construction workers.

"In Illinois, we are cracking down on distracted driving," said Governor Quinn. "During these busy summer travel and construction months, it is especially important that people hang up their cell phones and focus in work zones in order to ensure the safety of workers and other families on the road."

Electronic message boards will be located throughout the state's highways reminding motorists not to use cell phones in construction zones. Permanent LED message boards will be stationed above interstates will also convey this important distracted driving message.

"We want to remind drivers to put down their cell phones when they are approaching construction zones," said Secretary of State White. "Memorial Day weekend marks the start of heavy summer travel which happens to coincide with the construction season. We are urging drivers to slow down, pay special attention to their surroundings when construction workers are present, and avoid talking on cell phones."

Last fall Governor Quinn signed a law initiated by Secretary White, which took effect this year, banning the use of cell phones in construction zones as well as school zones. Additional legislation signed into law last August bans text messaging while driving on all roads. The penalty for violating either measure is a moving violation that will go on the motorist's driving record as well as fines and court costs to be determined by the judge.

"Every time a driver takes their eyes or their focus off the road - even for a minute - they put their lives and the lives of others in danger," said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig.  "We are pleased to be among states that have outlawed texting and driving and we are confident it will lead to fewer crashes and fatalities in Illinois."

Memorial Day is a heavily traveled holiday weekend. This year, AAA projects holiday travel will increase more than 5 percent, with almost 28 million people traveling by motor vehicle. Holiday travel in Illinois will increase 8.3 percent over last year, according to AAA, with the vast majority of travelers driving.


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24 May 2010

Governor Quinn Signs Legislation to Study Energy Performance of State Buildings

By Andrew Mason
Senate Bill 3429 Furthers Illinois' Efforts to Adopt More Environmentally-Friendly Building Standards

CHICAGO-May 22, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today signed legislation that initiates a study of the energy performance of state-owned buildings. This process sets the stage for the state to adopt more comprehensive energy efficiency benchmarks for existing state buildings.

"Illinois is committed to being a leader in the green movement," said Governor Quinn. "This bill is the first step in creating standards for energy efficiency at existing state buildings and further addresses the state's green goals."

The study will be conducted by the Illinois Energy Efficiency Committee, which consists of representatives from the Departments of Central Management Services, Commerce and Economic Opportunity and the Capital Development Board.

The team will establish comparative benchmarks of state-owned buildings to assess how Illinois stacks up against other states. The study will focus on existing buildings as a place to begin targeting upgrades to improve the efficiency of those buildings. A report is due to the General Assembly by July 1, 2012.

Senate Bill 3429 was sponsored by Senator Michael Bond (D-Grayslake) and Rep. Jay Hoffman (D-Collinsville). The bill is effective immediately.

Governor Quinn is committed to improving the efficiency of state government. In July 2009, he signed legislation that requires all new state-funded building construction and major renovations of existing state-owned facilities to meet certain green building practices.

Governor Quinn also supported legislation requiring every state-owned building to use only environmentally-sensitive cleaning products and requiring all state agencies to use compost materials for all land maintenance.

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24 May 2010

Local Government Officials Celebrate QC in Motion Week

By Anne Corbi

Mayor Bill Gluba, hosted elected and administrative city and county officials for a brisk walk, bike ride or even skate board activity today in recognition of Quad City in Motion Week.  Officials met at the Lindsay Park Marina and proceeded along the Mississippi River Trail to lunch at the Boat House on foot, bike and skate board.  Elected participants included Bettendorf Mayor Mike Freemire, Rock Island Mayor Dennis Pauley, Moline Mayor Don Welvaert, Rock Island County Board Chair Jim Bohnsack and Scott County Board Chair Chris Gallin.  Administrative officials included Craig Malin, Davenport City Administrator; Dee Bruemmer, Scott County Administrator, John Phillips, Rock Island City Manager and Denise Bulat, Bi-State Regional Commission.

The rain stayed away and the overcast conditions were perfect for the informal outing which offered the opportunity to enjoy the Quad City area trail system.  QC in Motion Week is a week dedicated to healthy living and our environment.  It celebrates movement through alternative transportation, employee health walks, informational bike rides through our local parks and many, many more great activities.  The week has focused on promoting ways of incorporating physical activity into your daily routine, highlighting the importance prevention plays in maintaining a healthy & productive workforce and increasing awareness that a healthier environment leads to a healthier community. Area residents were encouraged to minimize car use during the week and participate in as many of the week's activities as possible.

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24 May 2010

Davenport Student Receives Presidential Environmental Youth Award

By Randy Stalsberg
WASHINGTON, MAY 21, 2010 - Chuck Grassley recently met with Pavane Gorrepati, daughter of Krishmarao and Pramilarani Gorrepati of Davenport. Gorrepati, a sophomore at Rivermont Collegiate, was in Washington, D.C. to receive the Presidential Environmental Youth Award.

The Presidential Environmental Youth Award is given to a select number of students for their work in environmental service.

Grassley and Gorrepati discussed her winning project and talked about what led Gorrepati to be active in environmental issues. Gorrepati started several programs in her neighborhood designed to raise awareness about environmental issues, including a "Warning about Warming" program.

"I always enjoy talking with Iowans who have such a positive impact on their community," Grassley said.

24 May 2010

Harkin: Health Care Reform Continues to Deliver for Iowa Businesses with Biomedical Research Tax Credit

By Sen. Tom Harkin
Administration releases guidance for smaller firms to promote biomedical research


WASHINGTON, D.C. - MAY 21, 2010 - Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) today issued the following statement as the Obama Administration released guidance for biomedical research firms to take advantage of a new tax credit.  The new policy became law as part of The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the health reform bill.  Harkin helped craft that law as Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.  He has been a long-time leader to secure funding for biomedical research as chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee that funds health initiatives.

"The promise of health reform continues to become a reality for Iowans," said Senator Harkin. "With the guidance released today, our economy will begin to turn the corner with good jobs in the field of biomedical research and incentives to boost research and produce new therapies in this critical field.  I urge all eligible firms to look into this new incentive and take advantage."

Key facts on the Therapeutic Discovery Tax Credit:

•    The tax credit is effective immediately and covers up to 50 percent of the cost of qualifying biomedical research.
•    The credit will be allocated among projects that show significant potential to produce new and cost-saving therapies, support good jobs and increase U.S. competitiveness.
•    The credit is only available to smaller firms: those with 250 workers or fewer.
•    Firms can opt to receive a grant instead of a tax credit, so startups that are not yet profitable can benefit as well.

The new tax incentive will be administered by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).  Applications are available on IRS website at http://www.irs.gov/ and are due by July 21st, 2010.

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24 May 2010

SHIVE-HATTERY WINS ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARD

By Jenny Phan

MOLINE, ILLINOIS - [May 21, 2010] Shive-Hattery won the Merit Award in the building/technology systems category for engineering excellence from the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) of Illinois.

The Merit Award was given for the window replacement on Building 220 at the Rock Island Arsenal. The building houses a manufacturing process. The original window system in the three-story, 90-year-old building, had seriously deteriorated. Shive-Hattery provided high-definition (3D) scanning to get fast and accurate window measurements. Design and installation of the new windows took place without any disruption to the manufacturing process while maintaining a safe workplace.

Shive-Hattery is an architectural and engineering firm headquartered out of Cedar Rapids, Iowa and has offices in West Des Moines and Iowa City, Iowa; Moline, Bloomington, and Downers Grove, Illinois; and Chesterfield, Missouri. For more information, visit www.shive-hattery.com.

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24 May 2010

First Army Stone Laying Ceremony

By Erin McConaughey

Rock Island, IL - Russell Construction was honored to be a part of a milestone event that took place on the Rock Island Arsenal. This ceremonial event was held to celebrate the completion of the first of three phases for the new First Army headquarters, located on the Rock Island Arsenal, and to commence construction on the building's entrance sign.

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on May 20, 2010 Lieutenant General Thomas Miller, commanding officer for U.S. First Army, joined Rock Island Arsenal employees, Quad City community members, elected officials and Russell Construction employees to lay the first stones of the new First Army headquarters entrance sign. Currently headquartered at Fort Gillem, Georgia, First Army was ordered to relocate to the Rock Island Arsenal after the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC). First Army is expected to be in full operation by summer 2011.

"We're going to blend in, and we're going to be a part of the team," Lt. Gen. Thomas Miller said before touring a 150,000-square-foot building that had previously been home to an accounting and finance unit. First Army is responsible for the training, readiness and mobilization of all National Guard and Army Reserve units across the United States and two U.S. territories. For more information on First Army, please visit their website at www.first.army.mil.

The construction of this project consists of unified team effort between the US Army Corps of Engineers - Louisville District; Pond: Architects, Engineers & Planners; Tetratech, Inc. and Russell Construction. As a Midwest leader in Construction Management, Design/Build and General Contracting services, projects for the Department of Defense at the Rock Island Arsenal since 2005. Other federal government clients include the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Iowa Army/Air National Guard's and the United States Army Corps of Engineers. For more information on Russell Construction, please visit their website at www.russellco.com.

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