Alzheimer's is the 7th leading cause of death for people of all ages and 5th leading cause of death for people age 65 and older. One of the most important ways of dealing with the disease is early detection and treatment.  Starting in January, the Alzheimer's Association Greater Iowa Chapter will be hosting Beginning the Conversation programs in Clinton, Muscatine and Scott Counties in Iowa and Henry, Rock Island and Mercer Counties in Illinois.

The Beginning the Conversation program is designed to address the challenges confronting families of those newly diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Crucial information is presented, from disease progression to programs and services that can support caregiving and maintain quality of life. (Please note, this is for caregivers only; respite funds may be available for those suffering from the disease).

Programs for Scott and Rock Island County will be held the 4th Tuesday of the month from 3-4:30 pm at the Alzheimer's Association office, 736 Federal Street, Ste. 2318, Davenport, IA.

Programs for Clinton County will be held 1st Tuesday of the month in April, July and October from 3-4:30 pm at the Mercy Medical Center, South Campus Boardroom, 638 S. Bluff, Clinton, IA.

Programs for Muscatine County will be held the 2nd Tuesday of the month in March, June, September and December from 3-4:30 pm at Senior Resources, 3rd Floor Meeting Room, 1808 Mulberry Avenue, Muscatine, IA.

Programs for Henry County will be held the 3rd Thursday of the month in February, May, August and November from 3-4:30 pm at Henry Seniors Upstairs Meeting Room, 219 W. 2nd Street, Kewanee, IL

Programs for Mercer County will be held the 4th Thursday of the month in January, April, July and October from 3-4:30 pm at the Mercer County Hospital, Conference Room A, 409 NW 9th Avenue, Aledo, IL.

Persons interested in signing up for the class may call 563-324-1022 or 800-272-3900 or email Jerry Schroeder at Jerry.Schroeder@alz.org.

The Alzheimer's Association, the world leader in Alzheimer research and support, is the first and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to finding prevention methods, treatments and an eventual cure for Alzheimer's. For 25 years, the donor-supported, not-for-profit Alzheimer's Association has provided reliable information and care consultation; created supportive services for families; increased funding for dementia research; and influenced public policy changes.

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Ryan Peterman of Bettendorf has received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. Peterman will enter the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, this fall.

"I'm proud to announce Ryan Peterman's acceptance to the U.S. Naval Academy," Braley (D-Iowa) said. "With his excellent academic record and his history of community involvement, Ryan will be a valuable addition to the Naval Academy. I'm happy that Ryan will have the opportunity to further his education while continuing to serve his country at Navy."

Ryan Peterman will graduate from Bettendorf High School this spring, where he maintained a 3.9 grade point average while participating in student council, football and the Student Hunger Drive. Ryan is the son of George and Carolyn Peterman.

Each year Congressman Braley nominates students to the military service academies, including the U.S. Naval Academy. Nominees must demonstrate upstanding character, academic achievement, physical fitness, and leadership skills. A nominating committee comprised of community leaders reviews all applicants, with Congressman Braley recommending top candidates to the respective academies. Final acceptance decisions are made by the service academy. Students interested in applying to military service academies for enrollment in fall of 2010 should contact Congressman Braley's Waterloo office at (319) 287-3233.