17 Nov 2014

Mixing Religion and Financial Planning

By Ginny Grimsley

Spreading the 'Good News' of Sound Financial Planning
Money Management Has Common Cause with Theological Guidance, Says Money Minister

These days, if you want the kind of prosperity, peace and hope in your life for which the Bible is a guide, you need sound financial advice, says "Money Minister" C. Ernie Nivens, (www.nivenswealth.com), author of "Baker's Dozen: 13 Insights from Highly Successful Financial Advisors."

"I can't tell you how many clients have had a look of fear and dread in their eyes when I first sat down with them. They were frantic with worry about running out of money in their retirement years," says Nivens, a 20-year United Methodist minister and global church growth consultant who has focused his passion for learning on financial issues since 1990.

"As my career as a financial planner grew, I was struck by how similar spiritual advising is to financial advising. A retiree who is running out of money and is facing the uncertainty of relying on Social Security and Medicare faces quite a crisis. Essentially, they're wondering if they can afford to live."

For Christians, the "good news" refers to Jesus' message of hope. Nivens says he'd like to spread his financial gospel, which includes strategies for protecting and successfully using one's own money.

Nivens cites scripture and connects it with what Americans can do to better afford their lives and financially support others.

•  1-Timothy 5:3 - "Take care of widows who are destitute." Many senior widows face not only destitution, but also the need for long-term care. With the flood of baby boomers currently retiring, and the fact that women live longer men, scripture remains relevant to today's most important issues, which includes long-term medical care for the elderly. About 70 percent of people over age 65 can expect to need long-term care services at some point in their lives. That varies in cost depending on circumstances, even with the help of Medicare. Consulting a financial planner about implementing wealth preservation strategies long before you or a loved one needs long-term care is a prudent precaution.

•  Proverbs 23:10 - "Don't stealthily move back the boundary lines or cheat orphans out of their property ...." The Bible is filled with ethical guidelines regarding cheating people out of what is rightfully theirs. But modern estate management is rife with moving boundary lines as tax legislation changes the rules. That makes it difficult for many people to ensure they - and their heirs - keep what is theirs. To afford life in retirement and leave a legacy for one's family, the three most important areas to understand are how estate taxes work, critical documents and management tactics. If you're a wealthy individual, for example, umbrella liability insurance adds an extra layer of protection between your assets and a potential lawsuit.

•  Acts 20:35 - "In everything I've done, I have demonstrated to you how necessary it is to work on behalf of the weak and not exploit them. You'll not likely go wrong here if you keep remembering that our Master said, 'You're far happier giving than getting.' " Americans are a generous people, giving an estimated $300 billion a year to charity. From veterans' issues to ALS to children with cancer to homelessness, giving is in the DNA of those who have prospered from a solid work ethic. When giving, know how your money will be spent - ask questions. And, consider giving to organizations that need it; many universities and hospitals are flush with money. Finally, consider giving your time as well - volunteering is rewarded with great satisfaction.

About C. Ernie Nivens

C. Ernie Nivens, (www.nivenswealth.com), entered the United Methodist Church ministry while working his way through college. After completing his bachelor's degree in English from Francis Marion University, he earned his Master's of Divinity from Emory University's Candler School of Theology. He retired from the ministry in 1990 and began his career as a financial professional. Nivens completed his master's in Financial Services, MSFS, with an AEP (Accredited Estate Planner), in 2002. A popular speaker in the industry, he is also the author of three books: "Bakers Dozen," "A Light in the Darkness: Insights of a Southern Christian Gentleman," and "Southern Fried Hope," a mystery.

11 Nov 2014

Job Training Services Available for Older Veterans

By Susan Jackson
Muskogee, Okla. - This year's commemoration of Veteran's Day is a reminder that many U.S. veterans are still unemployed. Experience Works is providing the tools older veterans need to succeed.

"It's about making sure older workers have the skills and confidence to compete in today's workforce. Retirement just isn't an option for the people we serve." says Experience Works CEO Sarah Biggers.

Experience Works used the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) to put Vietnam veteran Harvey Borchardt on a path to a new career. He started with a paid community service assignment as an archivist and grant writer at the USS Batfish Submarine and Military Museum.

Then, acting on a job lead from Experience Works' staff, he was hired as a veteran customer representative for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in Muskogee, Okla.

'Enrolling in the program opened doors to opportunities that I never knew existed," says the 67-year-old Borchardt. Still working in this position, he has not only topped minimum wage, but is earning more than the median income for the area.

SCSEP is funded through the U.S. Department of Labor and targets low-income people age 55 and older who have difficulty finding jobs. Participants earn minimum wage while updating their skills in community service assignments at local public and nonprofit organizations. Other benefits include access to computer and customized training, jobs clubs, and job search assistance.

Borchardt, like so many others, dropped out of the workforce to care for aging parents. A few years later, it was a different economy and he struggled to find work. In the interim, he hoped to increase his employability by earning a bachelor's degree and two master's degrees from Northeastern State University. That still didn't help. After sending out more than 200 resumes with no responses, he reached out to Experience Works for help.

Experience Works is a national nonprofit operating in 30 states and Puerto Rico. For more information, or to find out if services are available in your community call toll free 866-EXP-WRKS or visit www.experienceworks.org.

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11 Nov 2014

Iowa's October WFI Is Nation's Seventh Best

By Rick Martin

October Summary

  • Iowa's WFI ranked 7th best in the nation, which was off from September's ranking of 5th.
  • Iowa's job market, based on online openings, is healthy.
  • In absolute numbers, the greatest numbers of online job openings were in Management, followed by Sales and next Customer Services positions.
  • As a percent of employment, the largest numbers of online openings were in Finance, Engineering, and then Information Technology positions.

Iowa WFI. AIM's August Work Force Index (WFI) dipped to a very strong 85.6 from September's 87.7. The WFI is a statistically based measurement tool produced by AIM, a nonprofit organization in Des Moines, Iowa. The Index is a ratio of unique online job postings and the number of unemployed in Iowa (not seasonally adjusted). The Index ranges between 0 and 100. A WFI below 50.0 indicates short-term job contraction while an Index above 50.0 indicates job expansion. At 85.6, Iowa's WFI is in a range indicating a very healthy level of job openings.

On-Line Openings. In October, online job postings listed the largest number of open positions in absolute numbers in 1) Management, followed by 2) Sales, and 3) Customer Services positions. As a share of employment, the largest numbers of job openings in descending order were in: 1) Finance, 2) Engineering, and 3) Information Technology. These rankings were unchanged from September.

To view Video Summary, Click Here!

About the AIM WorkForce Index AIM and the Creighton University College of Business produce the AIM WorkForce Index each month to track the relationship between the WFI and Creighton's Mid-America Business Expectation Index and the changes in the U.S. Gross Domestic Product. This comparative analysis not only measures the relative strength of the Greater Omaha labor market, but also shows how it compares to regional business expectations and actual national economic performance. This type of information is of value to both the employer and the job applicant as they develop plans and strategies for participation in the local and regional labor market. For more information on the WFI, please visit www.aimforbrilliance.org/wfi.html, http://business.creighton.edu/economicoutlook, or dol.nebraska.gov.

About AIM AIM is a not-for-profit community organization that promotes technology to empower people, enhance organizations, and create brilliant communities. AIM's signature services include Careerlink - the region's leading career development website, Infotec - the Midwest's premier business and IT conference, and Hatchfund - a crowd funding source for artists. For more information about our services - training, youth programs, research and more - visit www.aimforbrilliance.org.

07 Nov 2014

Golden Corral Restaurants Salute America's Heroes with 14th Annual Free Dinner on Military Appreciation Monday, Nov 17

By Rick Martin

Gary Sinise and Collective Soul Help Salute Our Nation's Heroes

RALEIGH, N.C. (Oct, 2014) - On Monday, Nov. 17, Golden Corral will thank thousands of active duty and retired United States military personnel for their service with a free dinner buffet and beverage, while raising donations for DAV (Disabled American Veterans). A tradition started 13 years ago to celebrate our nation's heroes, Golden Corral's Military Appreciation Monday has served more than 4 million complimentary meals to military personnel and generated more than $8.8 million dollars in guest contributions to support community-based service initiatives for veterans.

"Our 45,000 employees in 500 restaurants nationwide are very passionate about supporting our military service men and women on Military Appreciation Monday," said Ted Fowler, president and chief executive officer of Golden Corral. "While the current economy is challenging, we remain committed to recognizing the military through this program. We hope this year we will reach a new grand total of 5 million meals served since we began the program 13 years ago. We also hope to raise our contributions to the DAV to a grand total of more than $10 million dollars."

Golden Corral has enlisted Gary Sinise, celebrated actor/director, and Collective Soul, the platinum award-winning band, to record public service announcements for Military Appreciation Monday. Sinise and Collective Soul are all actively involved in supporting active duty and retired military personnel through a variety of organizations and initiatives including tours to military installations overseas.

"This is the 10th year I've had the pleasure to partner with Golden Corral in supporting our troops, past and present, through Military Appreciation Monday," said Sinise. "The number of meals given away and amount of money donated in the past 13 years really distinguishes Golden Corral's commitment to the military. I'm proud and happy to help raise awareness for Golden Corral Military Appreciation Monday."

Golden Corral will serve free dinner buffets with beverage from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Nov. 17 to any person who is or has served in a United States Military branch, including the National Guard and Reserves - identification is not required. State and local DAV representatives will be on-site at all Golden Corral locations coordinating the collection of donations from customers. While only current and former military qualify for the free meal, everyone is encouraged to come out and show support for our veterans. For more information on Military Appreciation Monday, please visithttp://www.goldencorral.com/military/.

About Golden Corral Corporation:

Founded in 1973, privately held Golden Corral Corp. is headquartered in Raleigh, N.C. Theodore M. Fowler Jr. serves as its president and chief executive officer.  Golden Corral currently has 500 restaurants in 41 states.  The company's vision is to be the leader in the family restaurant segment by making pleasurable dining affordable for every guest, at every restaurant, every day.  Golden Corral restaurants nationwide have long been strong supporters of the U.S. Military and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).  Golden Corral helped raise more than $1.40 million dollars for the DAV in 2013 as part of its annual "Military Appreciation Monday" initiative. Golden Corral is the major sponsor of Camp Corral, a free "week of a lifetime" summer camp for children of wounded, disabled or fallen military families (www.campcorral.org ).  For more information on Golden Corral, visit www.goldencorral.com.

07 Nov 2014

Great Clips Makes it Easy to Thank a Veteran!

By Kevin Behan

Great Clips customers get a free haircut card on Veterans Day to give to a veteran as a gesture of thanks

(October, 2014) - When we see men and women in uniform we may salute or shake their hand?an important gesture of respect.  Great Clips, the world's largest salon brand, encourages Americans to thank veterans in a tangible way too, by awarding them a free haircut.  It's part of Great Clips' "Thank a Veteran" promotion, and it's one small gesture with a powerful message of appreciation.  Customers who come in for a service on Veterans Day, (Nov. 11) get a free haircut card to give to a veteran. The free haircut cards are redeemable all the way through the end of 2014. In 2013, the first year of the promotion, Great Clips salons nationwide provided more than 130,000 free haircuts to veterans, and this year, they expect to give away even more.

March into Great Clips

On Veterans Day, Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2014, customers who come in for a haircut at any U.S. Great Clips salon will receive a free haircut card to give to an active, inactive or retired military member of any branch, including the National Guard. Military members can also come in on Veterans Day for a free haircut or to pick up a free haircut card to use, with proof of military service, through Dec. 31, 2014. This is not a one day freebie. The free haircut cards are good for 51 days-giving this promotion more longevity than most honoring our veterans.

"Most of us know at least one veteran we would like to thank on that day," says Great Clips CEO, Rhoda Olsen, who is married to a Vietnam veteran. "We invite everyone to come into a U.S. Great Clips salon on Veterans Day (Nov. 11) to purchase a service and pick up a free haircut card. To help show appreciation for those who have served or are serving our country, give the card to veterans in your family, or neighborhood or just someone you notice is a veteran. It's a simple, yet meaningful way for all Americans to say thank you to veterans with the help of Great Clips."

How It Works:

· Customers come into any U.S. Great Clips salon on Nov. 11 and, with the purchase of a service, receive a free haircut card to give to a veteran.
· Limit one card per customer (while supplies last).
· The free haircut cards are redeemable by veterans at any U.S. Great Clips fromNov. 11-Dec. 31, 2014, with proof of military service.

· Veterans who visit Great Clips in the U.S. on Nov. 11 receive either a free haircut that day or a free haircut card to redeem by Dec. 31. After Nov. 11, veterans must have a free haircut card to get the free haircut. 

"Many of our franchise owners, corporate staff and Great Clips stylists have served in the military, or have family members or customers who have served, so we are all excited to be a part of this nationwide 'thank you' to our men and women in uniform," says Terri Miller, Great Clips' sr. vice president of marketing and communications. "To make sure as many veterans as possible have the opportunity to get their free haircut, we made the free haircut cards good through the end of the year. We want to give these great people more time to visit a Great Clips salon and redeem this thank you card for a free haircut in honor of their service."

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About Great Clips, Inc.
Great Clips, Inc. was established in 1982 in Minneapolis. Today, Great Clips has more than 3,600 salons throughout the United States and Canada, making it the world's largest salon brand. Great Clips salons employ nearly 30,000 stylists who receive ongoing training to learn the Great Clips customer service system and advanced technical skills. Make Great Clips your choice for value-priced, high-quality haircare for men, women and children. No appointments are needed, and salons are open nights and weekends. And it's more convenient than ever with Great Clips' Online Check-In and Clip Notes®. To check in online, visitGreatClips.com or download the app for Android and iPhone. For more information about Great Clips, Inc. or to find a location near you, visit GreatClips.com.

05 Nov 2014

HOMETOWN PLUMBING & HEATING WINS ABC OF IOWA AWARD

By Hollie Dugan

Hometown Plumbing & Heating, 13606 - 118th Avenue, Davenport, Iowa, received a prestigious construction award from Associated Builders and Contractors of Iowa during the association's annual Excellence in Construction Gala held recently in Altoona.

Hometown Plumbing & Heating was recognized with a 2014 Award of Excellence in the Plumbing - Commercial & Industrial $250,000 - $1 Million Category. The award was presented based on the company's work on Heart of America Group - Elmore Marketplace Site Utilities - Davenport, Iowa. McClure Engineering Associates, Inc. was the architect/engineer for this project. Criteria for the award included complexity of the project, attractiveness, unusual challenges, innovation, safety, and budget compliance.

"This project is an example of the innovation and commitment to outstanding craftsmanship that embody merit shop construction. The superior workmanship illustrates the high level of quality produced by merit shop contractors," said ABC of Iowa President and CEO Greg Spenner.

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05 Nov 2014

West Music Announces Closing of Ottumwa Store Location

By Kelly Goerdt

Ottumwa, IA - November 4, 2014 - West Music Company announced that it will close its Ottumwa, Iowa store location effective December 31, 2014. West Music began its presence in Ottumwa in 1995. The music store, located at 404 West Main Street, had previously been owned by Milo Sorden and then Harry Carter.

West Music's commitment to the area school music programs and local musicians remains extremely important to all parties. Through weekly visits by West Music's Educational Sales Representatives, West Music will continue to provide quality instruments, products, and services to the Ottumwa community. As an additional convenience for musicians in the community, West Music is in the process of searching for local partners to establish satellite locations that will stock every day musical accessories such as reeds, lubricants, and popular method books. For more information, please contact Robin Walenta, President of West Music, at rwalenta@westmusic.com or 319-351-2000.

"After 20 years of servicing the Ottumwa community and continuing the tradition of Sorden's Music, we are sad to close our doors in Ottumwa. This is a decision we did not take likely - with the shrinking economy in southern Iowa, it became necessary for us to make this decision.  The school music business remains strong and our commitment to those accounts remains strong as our Educational Sales Representative will continue the great work he is doing in servicing the southern Iowa communities." said Robin Walenta, President of West Music.

Beginning November 1 through December 31, 2014, West Music Ottumwa will host a Store Closing Store with drastically reduced prices on musical instruments and accessories. Southeast Iowa continues to have a strong music tradition and West Music encourages the community to come to West Music Ottumwa during the Store Closing Sale to take advantage of incredible deals and celebrate the impact that West Music Ottumwa has had on the community. The deals won't last long, stop in early for the best selection.

West Music remains committed to servicing southeast Iowa and encourages customers to shop online at westmusic.com or visit other West Music stores - located in Cedar Falls, Coralville, Decorah, Dubuque, Marion, Moline, Illinois, or the piano gallery in Urbandale, Iowa.

About West Music Company

Founded in 1941, West Music continues to fulfill its mission of creating musical communities by providing knowledge, products, and services people need to experience the power of making music! West Music specializes in pianos, guitars, drums and percussion, band and orchestra instruments, and print music as well as offers music instruction, repair and music therapy services. West Music has seven retail locations in Iowa and western Illinois including two new locations with their recent acquisition of Kephart's Music Center. For more information, visit West Music's website at westmusic.com or call 1-800-373-2000.

03 Nov 2014

REDISCOVER SOUTHPARK MALL

By Aleisha Chiesa
New Energy and New Look for Moline's Favorite Shopping Center

MOLINE, Ill ? October 31, 2014 ? SouthPark Mall is ready for its big reveal. For the past 12 months, the center has seen significant enhancements and today, in partnership with the community, retailers and shoppers, the new SouthPark will be unveiled.

At 10am on November 13th, SouthPark will officially reveal the new shopping experience. Officials from the City of Moline, the Chamber and a special guest, Santa will attend. "Rediscover SouthPark" festivities will include a ceremonial ribbon cutting, a free family concert with The Blenders, the 44th annual Mr. Thanksgiving's press conference, the opening of the newly designed Children's Play Area, and a multitude of local performers including Rockridge Show Choir, CASI New Horizon Band and Black Hawk College Choir.

"For over 40 years, SouthPark Mall has been an anchor in the community," said Kathy Jurgens, Property Manager for SouthPark Mall. "We are committed to bringing in the best brands and elevating the experience. We invite everyone to help us celebrate this major milestone as we share the new SouthPark Mall."

In total, thirteen national retailers have reinvested new prototypes into the center including Journeys, Shoe Dept. Encore and Bath & Body Works. Improvements to the interior and exterior aesthetics are making the mall a completely new shopping experience. The new lighting, brighter colors and soft seating amenities are transforming the center. The newly designed Children's Play Area will be revealed on November 13th as well. Located next to Express and DEB, the new area will feature a tribute to our farming community.

More excitement is set for the center as DICK'S Sporting Goods is now under construction. Known for an extensive assortment of authentic, high-quality sports equipment, apparel, footwear and accessories to serve the athletes and outdoor enthusiasts of the Moline community, DICK'S will be a great complement to the shopping center. The store will open in summer 2015.

"The City of Moline is very pleased and grateful for the substantial reinvestment made by Macerich into SouthPark Mall symbolizing their commitment to the Moline and Illinois Quad Cities community," said Mayor Scott Raes. "SouthPark Mall has been the community's commercial anchor for many years and this revitalized shopping center, with new prototype stores from national retailers and the addition of DICK'S Sporting Goods, creates an entirely new shopping experience for all citizens in the Quad Cities. The city is appreciative of its partnership with Macerich to make this goal a reality."

For more information on free, fun events, visit www.shopsouthparkmall-il.com/events or follow us on Twitter @SouthParkMallIL and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SouthParkMallIL.

Macerich, an S&P 500 company, is a fully integrated self-managed and self-administered real estate investment trust or REIT, which focuses on the acquisition, leasing, management, development and redevelopment of regional malls throughout the United States.

Macerich currently owns 57 million square feet of real estate consisting primarily of interests in 53 regional shopping centers. Macerich specializes in successful retail properties in many of the country's most attractive, densely populated markets with significant presence in California, Arizona, Chicago and the Greater New York Metro area. Additional information about Macerich can be obtained from the Company's website at www.macerich.com.

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31 Oct 2014

Hilltop Campus Village Grand Opening

By Scott Tunnicliff
Here is a great opportunity to welcome another new business to the Hilltop Campus Village!
Saturday from 3pm to 7pm book binder, conservator and store owner Andrew Hout will be opening his shop at 230 West 15th St.
For those in need of landmarks, the shop is right next to the Eastside Bakery, across the street from Harrison Lofts, and just north of the Hilltop Plaza Park.
More information can be found at http://bigriverbindery.com/2014/10/grand-opening/
This promises to be another unique destination point that is helping to make the Hilltop Campus Village a one of a a shopping area where people can come to find things unavailable
Andrew Huot, Bookbinder and Conservator
Big River Bindery
230 W 15th St.
Davenport, IA 52803
31 Oct 2014

Governor Quinn Joins UI LABS to Break Ground on New Digital Manufacturing Hub

By Dave Blanchette

Digital Manufacturing and Design Innovation Institute Set to Open in 2015, Create Jobs

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today was joined by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, Mayor Rahm Emanuel and leadership from UI LABS to break ground on UI LABS' future headquarters and the new Digital Manufacturing and Design Innovation Institute (DMDII). The event is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to create jobs and drive Illinois' economy forward.

"I've made this facility a major priority for Illinois by personally making our case to both the White House and Secretary of Defense, as well as securing key private sector partners because I know how important this institution will be to revitalizing our manufacturing industry," Governor Quinn said. "The Digital Manufacturing and Design Innovation Institute will help keep Illinois' economic comeback going. I'm pleased to break ground on this facility that will solidify Illinois' position as a high-tech manufacturing hub, support our growing technology and innovation sectors and create jobs across the state."

The Governor personally petitioned the Secretary of Defense twice and made the case to key White House officials about the benefits and importance of DMDII. The Governor also worked to bring key private sector partners into the initiative, including CAT, Deere & Company, Lockheed Martin, Boeing and many more.

"Our U.S. industrial base is the engine that drives our economy and equips our soldiers, sailors and airmen. It is critically important that we maintain our technological advantage within a strong, adaptive and resilient U.S. industrial base,"  Andre Gudger, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary, Manufacturing and Industrial Base Policy, Department of Defense said. "The Digital Manufacturing and Design Innovation Institute, along with the other pilot Institutes for Manufacturing Innovation, will provide this competitive edge to not only the Department of Defense, but to other federal agencies, industry, and the nation as a whole."

"DMDII will enable Illinois to lead the nation in a 21st century manufacturing renaissance, which is precisely why I worked hard over the past two years to help bring the Institute to our state," Senator Durbin (D-IL) said. "World-class partners from around the state and across the country?including General Electric, John Deere, Caterpillar and Boeing?will work to improve manufacturing efficiency to create new opportunities for businesses and workers. DMDII will make our small and midsize manufacturers more competitive globally by allowing them to integrate computing capabilities throughout design, testing and production. But most importantly, the Institute will be a great source of innovation, development and economic growth in our state and position us as a leader in the field for years to come."

"Manufacturing has been an important part of Chicago's past and we are making sure that the next generation of advanced digital manufacturing will play an even greater role in our future. This is an important milestone in a long effort and a larger strategy to put the City of Chicago front and center of the digital manufacturing revolution," Mayor Emanuel said. "The research that comes out of the Digital Lab will underpin the products, the patents, and the production of so many new technologies, create new companies and help us attract existing companies to Chicago, and most importantly, create and sustain a new generation of good-paying jobs right here in the City of Chicago."

Located on Goose Island, DMDII is set to revitalize America's manufacturing industries by enabling U.S. manufacturers to harness data to make their products better, faster and more cost-competitive. Leveraging a co-investment of $70 million from the U.S. Department of Defense and matching investment from industry, university and state and local government partners, the Institute will help U.S. manufacturers increase productivity through a more effective use of data across every stage of the manufacturing process.

"We are building the factory of the future - where business and academia will convene to tackle important manufacturing challenges," Caralynn Nowinski, Executive Director of UI LABS said. "At the same time, this facility will be the place where American workers - and the next generation of workers - will have an opportunity to see, learn and participate in the transformation of U.S. manufacturing."

Early support from the Quinn Administration was essential to the launch of DMDII. In March 2013, Governor Quinn approved the investment of $60 million in Blue Waters at the University of Illinois, which provides the supercomputing power for this initiative, and set Illinois' application apart from other contenders for the DMDII. The Digital Manufacturing and Design Innovation Institute will reduce development and deployment costs for U.S. manufacturers while creating billions of dollars in value for the industrial marketplace?spurring long-term economic growth and job creation. The facility is scheduled to open late in the first quarter of 2015.

"Advances in digital manufacturing are already improving companies' performance all across America," Dean Bartles, Executive Director of DMDII said. "DMDII is going to take these advances to the next level by bringing technical expertise and connecting the dots across America's supply chain."

DMDII demonstrates Chicago's increasing prominence as a national leader in advanced manufacturing. DMDII is a public-private consortium that brings together over 40 leading manufacturing and technology companies with more than 30 university, government and community partners, including: Boeing, Caterpillar, Dow Chemical, General Electric, Illinois Tool Works, John Deere, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft, Northwestern University, PARC, Purdue University, Procter & Gamble, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rolls Royce, Siemens, University of Chicago, University of Illinois and University of Texas-Austin.

Prior to the official groundbreaking ceremony, guests took a tour of the 94,000-square-foot facility. Dignitaries viewed renderings of the soon to be completed space by architecture firm Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill (SOM). The building is located at 1333 Hickory Ave. on Goose Island, an industrial zone in the heart of the city that is rapidly becoming an "Innovation Island."

SOM's design for the DMDII space plays on the idea of transparency by adding glass storefronts and window bays to the existing building's exterior. Glass walls, exposed plumbing and mechanical systems reinforce the theme and foster an open, collaborative environment. The completed building will include a manufacturing floor for demonstrations, classrooms, a lecture hall and collaborative meeting rooms.

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