02 Jun 2009

As Wars' Death Toll Passes 5,000, Military Families Urge President Obama to Bring All Our Troops Home Now

By Randy Stalsberg

Nationwide - As the nation awaits confirmation from the Pentagon of the 5,000th death of a U.S. service member in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, members of Military Families Speak Out are mourning the dead and calling on President Obama to honor the sacrifices of these service members and their families and honor all of those who serve by acting swiftly to end both wars.

Warren Henthorn of Choctaw, OK, the father of Army Spc. Jeffrey Henthorn who died in Iraq on Feb 8, 2005, says:

"Way too many have died on all sides of these wars. If I remember correctly, President Obama won the Democratic nomination based on the promise to end the war in Iraq. But, between Iraq and Afghanistan, at the end of this year we will actually have more troops in harm's way then we did at the height of the 'surge.' That's just as bad as we had it under President Bush. These wars now belong to President Obama. The blood is on his hands."

Henthorn is a member of Gold Star Families Speak Out, a national chapter of Military Families Speak Out whose loved ones died a result of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Jane Bright of West Hills, CA, the mother of Sgt. Evan Aschraft who was killed at the perimeter of an oil refinery in Iraq on July 24, 2003, is also a member of Gold Star Families Speak Out. She says:

"My son was the 249th U.S. service member killed in Iraq - it's hard to believe that 5,000 of our troops have already died in Iraq and Afghanistan. How many more? We need to bring all our troops home from these wars and we need to take care of our veterans when they return home, giving them the medical and psychological care and treatment they need and deserve."

Maggie Pondolfino, a member of Military Families Speak Out from Portland, OR has been nervously watching the death toll in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan rise as her son awaits a deployment to Afghanistan with the U.S. Army:

"It's been over a year since my only son returned from a 14 month deployment to Iraq. Over a year since I was immobilized with dread at every unexpected knock on my door and every unfamiliar van parked in front of my house. Daily, I obsessively checked the Department of Defense casualty list. Too many times the names were close to home...someone from our state, or even someone from his platoon," says Pondolfino. "I imagined the other mothers' grief and wondered would I be able to endure it? Then I had a year of relative calm. I even celebrated a new administration and momentarily experienced the hope that seemed to engulf the country. "Now as the nation braces for the news of the confirmation of the 5,000th death of a U.S. service member in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the administration that briefly gave me new hope prepares to send my son to another war with no clear mission and no exit strategy. And how do I prepare? How do I prepare for another year of going through the motions of living, while wondering if he will come home? If he does will he have to fight a war within himself? If he does not come home, my darling boy with his loving heart and keen intellect will have died for nothing. I know that no good will come from continuing the occupations of Afghanistan and Iraq, just more heartbreak, sorrow, and tragedy. When will we ever learn?"

Members of Military Families Speak Out and Gold Star Families Speak Out are available for interview.

Military Families Speak Out is a national organization of over 4,000 military families working to bring all U.S. troops home from Iraq and Afghanistan and secure the care that our troops, Veterans, and military families need to recover from the impact of those wars on our lives and the lives of our loved ones. Gold Star Families Speak Out is a national chapter of Military Families Speak Out with over 150 families whose loved ones died a result of the wars in Iraq or Afghanistan.

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02 Jun 2009

Illinois Quad City Chamber of Commerce and the City of East Moline present the theme for the 51st Annual AMVETS 4th of July Parade: "Star Spangled Spectacular"

By Anne Spoden

Moline, Illinois? The Illinois Quad City Chamber of Commerce and the City of East Moline are proud to present the 51st Annual AMVETS 4th of July Parade to take place on Saturday, July 4th at 1pm in downtown East Moline.  This year's theme is "Star Spangled Spectacular."

The 51st Annual AMVETS 4th of July Parade will carry on a tradition for the Quad Cities community of saluting all of the veterans that have served our country. With the theme, "Star Spangled Spectacular," the parade will be a spectacular tribute and celebration to those who served.

The Illinois Quad City Chamber of Commerce is currently accepting entries for the parade.  To learn more or to enter your business or organization into this parade, contact Kristin Burke at (309) 757-5416 or email kburke@quadcitychamber.com.

Over 15,000 people are expected to line 15th Avenue in East Moline to watch this salute to our country and our community.  The parade will begin at 3rd Street and 15th Avenue, go down 15th Avenue, and end at 13th Street.

01 Jun 2009

Thank-you cards and letters to be collected for military

By Kim Woodward

In June, Modern Woodmen and Royal Neighbors to honor those who serve

Thank you - two simple words that can make a big impact.

Quad Citians will be asked to write thank-you letters and cards to American troops serving overseas in honor of Flag Day, a patriotic holiday paying tribute to the adoption of the Stars and Stripes in 1777.

Modern Woodmen of America and Royal Neighbors of America, two Rock Island-based businesses, will sponsor the collection during the first two weeks of June. All cards and letters collected will be donated to the Rock Island Arsenal Chapter of Association of the United States Army to distribute to service men and women stationed overseas.

Cards and letters can be dropped off between Monday, June 1 and Sunday, June 14 at Modern Woodmen Bank, 100 17th Avenue, downtown Rock Island.

A drive-thru drop off will be held at Royal Neighbors of America on Thursday, June 11.

Project details and guidelines:

  • All ages can participate in this project - create or purchase thank-you cards to donate to the effort.

  • The more positive the message the better!

  • You can include your name, address and email address if you desire.

  • All letters and/or cards will be screened for security reasons.

  • Do not seal envelopes - they must remain open for security.

  • Any size cards and letters will be accepted.

  • Please do not use glitter or include food items.

Modern Woodmen and Royal Neighbors celebrate Flag Day on June 14 to honor the nation's symbol of freedom. The two Quad-City-based fraternal financial services organizations have long celebrated patriotism and proudly offer fraternal programs that continue this tradition, by donating flags, honoring veterans, and supporting troops and their families.

Founded in 1883, Modern Woodmen of America touches lives and secures futures. The fraternal benefit society offers financial services and fraternal member benefits to individuals and families throughout the United States.

Royal Neighbors of America is a non-profit fraternal membership organization with a 100-plus-year history of helping women and their families. The organization insures lives, supports women, and serves communities by offering insurance and annuity products. Its members also participate in a variety of locally based volunteer opportunities and are eligible to apply for many member benefits such as scholarships and disaster aid.


01 Jun 2009

Senior Star at Elmore Place Assumes Champion Sponsorship of Quad City Memory Walk®

By Julie Seier

Davenport, IA - May 27, 2009 - The Alzheimer's Association, Greater Iowa Chapter is pleased to announce a Quad-City Memory Walk® "Champion" ($10,000) sponsor for the first time in the walk's 20 year history. Although their facility on Elmore Place has only recently opened, the Senior Star Living® has been a long standing supporter of the Alzheimer's Association. This sponsorship displays a major commitment to the walk and to the health and well being of the Quad Cities.

"Senior Star is proud to sponsor the Quad-City Memory Walk® because we recognize the tremendous efforts of the Alzheimer's Association and the value of investing in the education and support of those who are dealing with, or who may deal with, this devastating disease, " said Robert Thomas, co-owner Senior Star Living "We work hard to support efforts that improve the lives of seniors and our relationship with the Alzheimer's Association will improve the lives of seniors not only in our facility but in the lives of the entire Quad-City community."

According to Carol Sipfle, Executive Director of the Alzheimer's Association, Greater Iowa Chapter, "This sponsorship will have immeasurable benefits for both the Alzheimer's Association and Senior Star. These funds will enable the Alzheimer's Association, Greater Iowa Chapter, to provide critical support and education to caregivers in our 63-county chapter territory in Iowa and Illinois, as well as to the thousands of individuals now living with Alzheimer's in these areas. The work of the Alzheimer's Association continues to grow in need and importance. We appreciate the vision and support of all our sponsors who make our work possible, including Senior Star. "

Senior Star's Champion sponsorship follows on the heels of regional sponsors: Care Initiatives, Dex, Life Care Retirement Communities and Bickford Cottage. The traditional list of participating sponsors for the Quad City walks includes such names as Nash, Nash, Bean and Ford, Avonlea Cottage, Country House Residences, Modern Woodmen of America, Brown Traffic, the i wireless center, KWQC as well as Clear Channel radio.

The 20th annual Quad-City Memory Walk® will take place on Saturday, October 3, at the i wireless center. This year's walk will focus on twenty years of education, support and research.

To learn more about the Quad City walk or register for the event, log onto: http://memorywalk09.kintera.org/moline .

The Alzheimer's Association

The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's. For more information, visit www.alz.org

Senior Star at Elmore Place Features a memory care with six different floor plans andunits ranging in size from 224 square feet to 343 square feet. Each room has a private half bath, while multiple shower and spa retreats are located through the building. Senior Star at Elmore Place incorporates progressive and innovative approaches to memory care, including life skills stations, destination programming and Snoezelen rooms which promote soothing, sensory experiences. Senior Star at Elmore Place is owned by Senior Star Living, based in Tulsa, Okla. Senior Star Living is a private company founded in 1976 and entered the seniors housing business in 1989. Its portfolio currently includes nine retirement communities in six states. As a recognized leader in the seniors housing industry, the company provides independent, assisted living and memory care options. Additional information is available on the Web site, www.seniorstar.com

###

01 Jun 2009

Grand Opening of Main Street Farmers Market-downtown Aledo

By The Buzz Gallery of modern Art

WHAT: The Main Street Farmers Market-downtown Aledo opens for business June 11th with local growers and producers selling fresh from the farm products such as fruit, vegetables, berries, wines, cheese, flowers, breads, eggs and meats. The Aledo and Illinois Quad Cities Chambers of Commerce will conduct a ribbon cutting for Aledo Main Street and partners to open the Market for business. The Monmouth Dixieland Jazz Band will be taking the stage later that evening to entertain shoppers.

WHEN: Thursday, June 11, 4 to 7 p.m. (note: The Ribbon cutting will be held at 4 p.m.)

WHERE: Central Park parking lot in Aledo, Illinois

WHY: Area residents will enjoy homegrown produce and seasonal crops throughout the summer and fall months. The Main Street Farmers Market not only supports local vendors, but also promotes a healthy lifestyle and connecting with neighbors and new visitors to the Mercer County. It will be open every Thursday, 4 to 7 p.m., from June 11 through October 22 at Central Park (intersection of Highway 17 and College Avenue). Community Days are also featured each week, include the Aledo Fire Department, Friends of the Library, the Aledo Police's K9 Unit, a Curves demonstration, and Chef's Choice that features an area chef with a specialized menu.

The Main Street Farmers Market-downtown Aledo was made possible through funds from the USDA's Specialty Crop Block Grant Program for Illinois Where Fresh Is. Sponsorship dollars were also provided by Aledo Community Schools District #201, Aledo Main Street, Mercer County Health Department, Mercer County Farm Bureau, and University of Illinois Extension/Mercer EDP Office.

Participating advertising merchants are MGM Graphics, East Moline; Radish Magazine, Rock Island; The Times Record, Aledo; Torrey Outdoor Advertising of East Moline and WRMJ Country 102.3, Aledo.

Interested vendors and sponsors of community days should contact Pam Myers at Aledo Main Street, (309) 582-2751, or email aledoms@qconline.com. Application and rules may also be downloaded from the website www.aledomainstreet.com.

29 May 2009

Country Style Ice Cream Grand Opening

By Lori Weber

On Thursday, June 4th from 4pm-6pm, Country Style Ice Cream and Hawaiian Style Coffee will hold a Grand Opening at the 4th official franchise on 53rd Street just east of Division in Davenport. We'll start the event with a ribbon cutting at 4:30pm and will have plenty of samples of Country Style Ice Cream and Hawaiian Style Coffee on hand, along with door prizes and other refreshments.

Country Style Ice Cream has been a local favorite since 1947 and in 2006 Kent Kindelsperger added Hawaiian Style Coffee to the mix. "Coffee is a great complement to our ice cream line.  The unique and rich flavor of these two brands set this company apart," Kent Kindelsperger said.

The new owners, Kari and Tres Gomez, at the Davenport location add, "We are very excited to bring Country Style Ice Cream and Hawaiian Style Coffee back to Davenport.  We are proud to support a local product and feel the quality of the ice cream and coffee products are second to none."  This new location will provide a warm and relaxed atmosphere for customers to sit and enjoy an ice cream malt or latte or take advantage of our free wi-fi internet connection.  Customers will also be able to enjoy wraps, hot dogs and pastries while a drive thru window provides our products for people on the run.

29 May 2009

Just Kids Trivia Night

By Jared Johnson
Just Kids Early Care & Education Centers, Milan, announces their second annual Trivia Night Fundraiser.  This fun and competitive event will take place on Friday, June 19th at the Milan Community Center, US Hwy 67, Milan IL.  Doors open at 6pm, trivia starts at 7pm.  Teams of 8 will compete for cash prizes and have a chance to win great door prizes throughout the night.  All proceeds benefit program expansions for Just Kids, a non-profit early childhood education organization serving 200 families annually.

Teams may register online at www.justkidsinc.org or by calling Lisa at (309) 787-6303.  Cost is $80 per table, and can be paid the night of the event.  Food may be brought in, and a cash bar will be available.
29 May 2009

THE MOLINE FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES WOMACK SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

By Linda Martin

Brent Shedd, Moline High School, was chosen to receive a scholarship from the Womack Memorial Scholarship Fund,

The fund provides scholarships to deserving Moline High School graduates who plan to obtain a degree in education. Shedd was chosen by a local selection committee to receive a scholarship of $1,000.00 He plans to study secondary education at Bradley University.

The scholarship was established by Womack's wife, Peggy and the Lee Womack Memorial Golf Outing Steering Committee. Annually since his death, a golf outing has been held in his memory to raise funds for a local charity. In 2004, the scholarship fund was established and is now administered by the Moline Foundation.

# # #

29 May 2009

Thinking About Welcoming an Exchange Student? Now's the Time.

By Grant Moser
Sharing daily life with a teenager from another country and culture is a rich and rewarding experience, and it's a wonderful way to bring more understanding into the world. If you've ever thought about welcoming an exchange student into your home and family, now's the time to learn more. AFS, the leading international high school student exchange program, needs families in our community to host high school students for an academic year or six months. Students arrive in August.

All kinds of families can host--two-parent households with young children or teenagers, single-parent families, families with adopted children, foster parents, as well as couples and single people who do not have children or who have grown children. One of the most important characteristics of a host family is being eager and excited to share your life and activities while providing the same kind of care, support, and comfort as you would to your own child or family members.

AFS students come from more than 40 countries and represent many different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Local AFS Volunteers enroll students in high school and support students and their families to help both gain the most from their experience. In addition to host families, AFS needs people who are interested in becoming volunteer liaisons to work locally with families and their hosted students. Anyone interested in learning more about hosting or volunteering with AFS should visit www.afsusa.org/hostfamily or call 1-800-876-2377. AFS Intercultural Programs/USA is a nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization. The mission of AFS is to work toward a more just and peaceful world by providing international and intercultural learning experiences to individuals, families, schools, and communities through a global volunteer partnership.
29 May 2009

Nashville Recording Artist to Present Free Concerts in Davenport

By Jake McVey

Jake McVey's idea is to bring his music to people who cannot attend his concerts. Performing acoustic versions of his show at nursing homes, retirement communities, schools, and hospitals across the United States, the Nashville recording artist is giving back.

In the spirit of the movie, Pay It Forward, McVey will be presenting two free shows in the Quad City area next week. On Wednesday, June 3, at 2:00 P.M., he will perform at Kahl Home for the Aged in Davenport, and at Jersey Ridge Place at 4:00 P.M. "There is nothing better than when you take time to give back. When you're performing in front of people who would just love for someone to say, "Hi," or ask, "How's your day?" it's amazing seeing those faces light up. By the warmth of a song. you know that you truly brought joy to someone's life and brightened their day," says McVey.

McVey's "Pay it Forward Acoustic Tour" is a response to a desire to give back to the communities he visits. As in the movie, Pay It Forward, little acts of kindness culminate in something bigger.

With his second album, Anything Is Possible, to be released this summer, McVey, the composer of over 200 songs, brings together the best of old country with new dynamics. He will begin touring with Darius Rucker at Burlington's Steamboat Days Sunday, June 21.

In 2008, Jake McVey performed in over 300 shows all across the United States. A native of Mediapolis, Iowa, McVey is making a name for himself in the country music arena by relying on his Iowa values of hard work and selfless giving.  As McVey says, "Pay it forward. Why not? And just see what can happen!" For more information about Jake McVey and his "Pay it Forward Tour," visit www.jakemcvey.com or www.myspace.com/mcveyjakepif

To request more information from Jake McVey, email: jakemcvey@hotmail.com or phone: 319-931-5202 (daytime).

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