CHICAGO - Lt. Governor Sheila Simon, Sen. Toi Hutchinson and women's advocates will support an entrance fee on strip clubs to raise money for rape crisis centers and violence prevention.

DATE: Friday, February 17

TIME: 1:45 p.m.

PLACE: Blue Room, 15th floor, Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph St., Chicago

Washington, DC - February 16, 2012 - In case you missed it, Congressman Bobby Schilling (IL-17) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives this morning in support of the Building Better Business Partnerships Act, bipartisan legislation he introduced last week with Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-32).  This bill will streamline the process for small businesses to participate in mentor-protégé programs which pair new businesses looking to increase their government contracts with more experienced businesses.  To view Schilling's floor statement, click here or on the image below.

As part of the Small Business Committee's contracting initiative, two other bipartisan pieces of legislation were introduced last week with the goal of creating protections to fight contracting fraud and empowering advocates who fight for small business during the federal acquisition process.  More information on the Committee's initiative can be found here on the Committee's website.

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Washington, DC - Congressman Bobby Schilling (IL-17) not only voted to cut his office budget more than 10 percent since taking office, but will return $110,000 of his 2011 office budget to taxpayers, he said today.

Each congressional office is allotted an annual office budget, or Members Representational Allowance (MRA), from which it pays operating expenses such as district office rent, staff salaries, office supplies, and all mailings to constituents.  Schilling not only voted to reduce his 2011 office budget by 5 percent, but is returning another 8 percent or $110,000 to taxpayers in 2011.  He has voted to reduce Members' office budgets another 6.4 percent in 2012 and expects to return a portion of that to the taxpayers at the end of the year as well. 

"At a time when we are borrowing 42 cents of every dollar Washington spends, Congressional offices like mine should make do with less," Schilling said.  "While some expenses may vary from year to year based on the needs of the district, I am proud my offices have been successfully providing high-quality services to my constituents while reducing our overall expenses and remaining mindful of taxpayer dollars.  The $110,000 I am returning may not solve our debt crisis, but every dollar counts.  Congress must lead by example to end Washington's spending addiction on behalf of the taxpayer."

Schilling spent a total of $151,138 less in 2011 than his predecessor did in 2010, including $405,018 less on staff salaries and expenses alone.  He spent a total of $103,038 less than what his predecessor spent in 2009, including $362,018 less on staff salaries. 

Schilling has brought his own health care to Washington, rejected congressional pay raises and the pension, and has authored legislation to tie Members of Congress' access to their federal pensions to the Social Security age of their constituents.  Schilling also has authored the Savings Over Spending Act to incentivize smarter spending across the agencies of the federal government by discouraging end-of-year  "spend downs."

This week, Schilling also sent a letter to Speaker of the House John Boehner (OH-08), asking that the House work to ensure a Member of Congress' returned MRA funds are sent immediately to the Treasury in an effort to pay down our national debt.  Currently, these unspent funds are held in a separate fund for two years prior to being sent to the Treasury. 

"Going forward, the immediate return of unspent MRA funds to the Treasury for debt reduction should be the standard by which we govern," Schilling wrote.  "The more incentives we have at our disposal to save taxpayer money, the better.  This is their money."

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Future Chinese leader tours America, engages in multiple press events to improve China's image with stops in DC, Iowa, and California

WASHINGTON, Feb. 14, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- As Chinese Vice President Xi embarks on a five-day tour of the United States, which includes trips to the District of Columbia, Iowa, and California, Generation Opportunity is highlighting results from its national poll demonstrating how America's young adults view threats to America, American national security, and its relationship to federal spending. The poll focuses specifically on young Americans ages 18-29 and reveals the opinions of young Americans on issues such as indebtedness to China, U.S. debt, and a variety of economic challenges.

Vice President Xi Jinping is expected to assume control of the Chinese Communist Party later this year and to then become president of China in 2013.

The poll reveals that 76 percent of young American adults view China as either an economic or military threat, 62 percent believe the top American national security issue is the U.S. debt -- followed by energy dependency and indebtedness to foreign powers -- and over 70 percent indicated very big concerns about America's deficit.

"Young Americans are very strong in their belief that America is an exceptional nation, but they believe that our growing debt, our indebtedness to foreign powers, like communist China, and our dependency on foreign sources of energy pose a threat to our national security. As vice president Xi tours America, he should understand that the overwhelming majority of young Americans view the Chinese government as an economic or military threat and that they are committed to increasing American economic and energy independence so that the United States remains a global leader.

"It is hard for Americans, especially young adults, to be impressed by foreign leaders who deny their citizens the basic human freedoms of speech and religious expression, especially in the age of social media and global commerce," said Paul T. Conway, president of Generation Opportunity and the former Chief of Staff of the U.S. Department of Labor under Secretary Elaine L. Chao. Conway has also served as an official at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and is an alumnus of the Senior Executives in National and International Security program at Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government.

To reduce these vulnerabilities and manage America's national security challenges, young Americans believe elected officials in Washington, D.C. need to get the country on more stable economic footing by cutting federal spending rather than raising taxes. They also believe the U.S. needs to increase the production of domestic energy sources such as oil, natural gas, and coal.

Generation Opportunity commissioned a poll with the polling company, inc./WomanTrend (April 16 - 22, 2011, +/- 4 percent margin of error) and highlights some of the results below.

The China Threat:

  • 76 percent of Young Americans view China as a danger:
    • 48 percent as an economic threat
    • 28 percent as both an economic and military threat.

American National Security:

  • Top 3 greatest threats to American National Security: National Debt (62 percent), Energy Dependency (61 percent) and Indebtedness to Foreign Powers (50 percent). The threat of terrorism at (39 percent) followed as the fourth major national security concern.
  • 71 percent indicated very big concerns about America's "deficit."
  • 70 percent (net) would increase production of domestic energy sources like oil, natural gas and coal.

American Exceptionalism:

  • 56 percent -- more than half -- indicated their agreement with "American Exceptionalism" -- described as an ideal of freedom and democracy exclusive and unique to the United States.

Young Americans Views on Washington Leaders and the Economy:

  • 69 percent say political leaders do NOT reflect the interests of young Americans.
  • Only 31 percent approve of President Obama's handling of American youth unemployment.
  • 76 percent of overall Millennials would favor a decrease over an increase in federal spending from its current level if given the chance to set America's fiscal priorities.
  • 69 percent prefer reducing federal spending over raising taxes on individuals in order to balance the federal budget.
  • 59 percent of overall Millennials agree the economy grows best when individuals are allowed to create businesses without government interference.
  • 53 percent of overall Millennials agree if taxes on business profits were reduced, companies would be more likely to hire.

ABOUT GENERATION OPPORTUNITY
Generation Opportunity is a non-profit, non-partisan 501 (c)(4) organization that seeks to engage everyone from young adults, to early career professionals, college students, young mothers and fathers, construction workers, current service men and women, veterans, entrepreneurs, and all Americans who find themselves dissatisfied with the status quo and willing to create a better tomorrow.

Generation Opportunity operates on a strategy that combines advanced social media tactics with proven field tactics to reach Americans 18-29. The organization's social media platforms -- "Being American by GO" on Facebook and "The Constitution by GO" on Facebook -- have amassed a total fan base of more than 2.3 million. Both pages post links to relevant articles and reports from sources ranging from the federal General Accountability Office (GAO), to The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Brookings Institution, The Wall Street Journal, The Huffington Post, and The Heritage Foundation.

Read about Generation Opportunity here; visit "Being American by GO" on Facebook here and "The Constitution by GO" on Facebook here.

For our Spanish-language page -- Generación Oportunidad -- click here.

 

 

Washington, DC -- Rep. Bruce Braley (IA-01) released the following statement today after media reports indicated that House Speaker John Boehner will bring a stand-alone bill to the full House for a vote this week to extend the middle class payroll tax cut through the end of 2012.   Unless Congress acts, the middle class payroll tax cut will expire at the end of February.

 

"I'm encouraged that Speaker Boehner is putting aside partisanship to bring a yearlong extension of the middle class tax cut up for a yes-or-no vote this week.  This tax cut is good for the economy, and it shouldn't matter what's good for the Republican or Democratic party.  This tax cut will put $1,000 back in the pocket of the average Iowa family - Iowans can ill-afford any more political games on this issue.  I look forward to voting on this bill."

In January, Braley wrote to Speaker Boehner and Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi urging them to work together to extend the middle class tax cut for a full year.

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Denison Job Corps Center To Launch February Recruitment Drive

DENISON, Iowa - The Denison Job Corps Center is recruiting its next group of new students for Carpentry, Painting, Brick Masonry, and Facilities Maintenance, to start training on Feb. 26, officials announced today.

The Job Corps program provides students with academic and career technical training, and room, board, and basic medical services while on center.  Young adults ages 16 through 24 who meet specific income requirements can enroll in the program at no cost.

"Job Corps gives these young people the chance to train in the health care or construction career field of their choice, and to earn a high school diploma or GED if they haven't already," Denison Center Director Steve Reitan said.  "In addition to training, students can take advantage of leadership opportunities on and off center that will also prepare them for future careers."

Instructors and staff at Job Corps centers across the country work with students to help them achieve their personal career goals.  Students receive classroom guidance from Job Corps staff, as well as career counseling and assistance in securing and maintaining employment after graduation.

"Our instructors and staff members are well-qualified to help our students gain the skills, experience, and confidence to be successful after they graduate from the Job Corps program," Reitan said.

Typically, students complete the construction training areas, such as those offered at the Denison center, in 8 to 12 months, gaining skills that include construction techniques, installations, protection, and restoration, as well as obtaining industry-recognized credentials.  Starting salaries for graduates of these training areas are usually around $30,000 a year.

Job Corps also offers students Advanced Career Training for no additional cost, making it possible for them to receive further training by enrolling in a vocational, technical, or community college.

For up to 21 months after graduation, a career counselor will help students gain higher education or obtain employment, and assist them in other transition activities so that they can live independently.

The Denison Job Corps Center has two residence halls and a total capacity for 300 students.  In addition to the many construction programs offered, the center provides training in several other career areas, including Clinical Medical Assistant, Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse, and Pharmacy Technician.  Students may also participate in athletics, community service projects, and the Student Government Association.

About Job Corps

Administered by the U.S. Department of Labor, Job Corps is the nation's largest career technical training and education program for low-income young people ages 16 through 24.  Job Corps provides services to more than 60,000 young people each year at 125 centers in 48 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.  To learn more about Job Corps, call (800) 733-JOBS or visit Job Corps online at www.jobcorps.gov.

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The 13th Annual Teacher Job Fair is being held Tuesday, March 6, 2012, at the Waterfront Conference Center from 2:00 p.m. -
5:00 p.m.. The Waterfront Conference Center is located at 2021 State Street in Bettendorf. The purpose of the Teacher Job Fair is
to bring school districts looking for teachers together with teachers looking for jobs.

All prospective and current teachers, counselors and administrators are invited to attend the Teacher Job Fair. This event will be
an opportunity to talk to school district representatives from Illinois and Iowa at no charge. Please bring copies of your resume.
Licensure information for Iowa/Illinois will be available.

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Monday, February 13, 2012

Senator Chuck Grassley made the following comment about the President's budget proposal.

"After he was elected, President Obama said he knew the economy couldn't handle a tax increase.  Today, unemployment is still 8.3 percent, but the President wants to increase taxes $1.5 trillion.  An Obama tax increase would set the economy back and fuel more government spending.  It keeps America on the path of big deficits and record debt, all at the expense of the next generation.  When I asked the Federal Reserve Chairman during a budget committee hearing last week, he reiterated that the economy couldn't handle a tax increase.  So, again, the White House is choosing its reelection campaign over any attempt to start reducing the size of government and chart a course for private-sector job creation.

"Leadership by the Senate Majority Leader is just as lacking.  Earlier this month, Senator Harry Reid said he had no intention of allowing the Senate to consider a budget this year.  The Senate hasn't produced a budget for the last three years because Senator Reid doesn't want senators in his caucus to have to take difficult votes, also putting politics above the responsibility that's held by elected officials."

 

February 10, 2012

(Rock Island) Rock Island Counly officials are pleased lo announce that discussions with Jumers Casino Rock Island have resulted in an agreement that will provide revenue to the Counly of Rock Island.

County Board Chairman James E. Bohnsack, Statle Represenlolive Patrick Verschoore (D - Milan) ond State Senator Mike Jacobs (D - Moline) negociated with Casino officials over the last several months.  The exact figure to be generated will be known wilhin the nexl week to ten days.

These funds will be used to offset costs the County incurs due to the Casino.  Chairman Bohnsack expressed his appreciation to Representative Verschoore ond Senator Jocobs as well as Casino officials for diligence and assistance on this project.

ANKENY, IA, Feb. 10, 2012 - U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack held a roundtable meeting today with local business and agricultural leaders at the Des Moines Area Community College to discuss the vision laid out in President Obama's State of the Union address that will help grow the Iowa economy. The meeting provided Secretary Vilsack with an opportunity to hear directly from Iowans on how to make sure our students and workers get the education and training they need so that we have a workforce ready to take on the jobs of today and tomorrow.

"President Obama believes this is a make or break moment for the middle class and has laid out a blueprint for an economy that is built to last?an economy built on American manufacturing, American energy, skills for American workers, and a renewal of American values," said Vilsack. "Today I had the opportunity to hear directly from Iowans on how we work together to build a nation where everyone gets a fair shot, everyone does their fair share, and everyone plays by the same rules. Together we will keep our nation moving forward and rebuild an economy where hard work pays off and responsibility is rewarded."

Last Friday's employment report shows that private sector payrolls increased by 257,000 in January and the unemployment rate fell to 8.3 percent. After losing more than 8 million jobs in the recession, the economy has added private sector jobs for 23 straight months, for a total of 3.7 million jobs over that period. Manufacturing jobs are coming back and the auto industry has rebounded. In the last 12 months, 2.2 million private sector jobs were added on net. To ensure we build an economy to last over the long term, we must continue this progress. In his State of the Union Address, the President announced proposals and outlined his vision for:

  • How we will bring about a new era of American manufacturing, with more good jobs and more products stamped Made in the USA;
  • A new era for American energy?an economy fueled by homegrown and alternative energy sources that will be designed and produced by American workers;
  • How we will make sure our students and workers get the education and training they need so that we have a workforce ready to take on the jobs of today and tomorrow; and
  • Return to American Values - of fairness for all, and responsibility from all.

USDA is working to support the President's efforts to promote a new era of American manufacturing by supporting rural businesses, farmers and ranchers to export products made or grown in America. USDA is also supporting the President's vision for a new era for American made renewable energy by working with scientists, farmers and entrepreneurs to help develop a nationwide biofuels economy that will create hundreds of thousands of jobs throughout the countryside.

In Iowa, USDA has provided 62 grants and loans to assist rural small and mid-sized businesses create or save 5,300 jobs over the past three years. USDA has also improved and modernized rural electric infrastructure for over 91,000 rural residents and businesses in Iowa with more than 2,636 miles of new and upgraded electric lines. Across the country, USDA has helped more than 7,435 rural families in all 99 counties buy or refinance a home. The department has provided grants and loans for water and waste water community infrastructure projects to help safeguard the health of 257,000 rural residents and create or save 1,900 jobs.

Learn more about President Obama's Blueprint for an America Built to Last here.

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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).


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