16 Sep 2013

Branstad, Reynolds issue statements on slain Rockwell City Police Officer Jamie Buenting

By Office of the Governor of the State of Iowa

(INDIA) - Gov. Terry E. Branstad, on an international trade mission in India, today issued the following statement upon learning  Rockwell City Police Officer Jamie Buenting was killed in the line of duty earlier this morning:

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Jamie Buenting, his coworkers, and the entire Rockwell City community. This is a devastating loss that again reminds us of the harm faced on a daily basis by our brave public safety officers. We must never take for granted the work carried out by our public safety officers, and must be ever thankful to officers like Jamie Buenting for keeping our families safe."



Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds made the following statement in Pella:


""Today offered another stark reminder of the dangers confronted by public safety officers on a daily basis. This is a terrible tragedy, and we all will keep Officer Buenting's family in our thoughts and prayers. My thoughts also go out Rockwell City as they endure the loss of a respected public service officer."


# # #

13 Sep 2013

Special City Council Work Session Sept 16th

By Jackie E. Holecek
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION

City of Davenport, Iowa

Monday, September 16, 2013

Immediately following the Special City Council Meeting at 5:30 PM

Council Chambers, City Hall

I.  Casino Development Agreements:

Scott County Casino LLC and Davenport Casino Group LLC
12 Sep 2013

SCOTT COUNTY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION .

By Brian J. McDonough
Tuesday, September 17, 2013 @ 7:30 P.M.

Scott County Administrative Center, (Formerly the Bicentennial Building)

1st Floor Board Room, 600 W Fourth Street, Davenport, Iowa 52801

AGENDA

1. Call to order.

2. Minutes - Approval of meeting minutes from the September 3, 2013 meeting

3.  Discussion of Periodic Review of the Scott County Comprehensive Plan - Planning and

Zoning Commission, planning staff, and planning and economic development representatives

from: Eldridge, Bettendorf, Davenport, Quad Cities First, and Bi-State Regional Commission

? Planning and economic development representatives will present their respective

community's or organization's economic development and future land use plans to the

Commission

4. Review and Discussion of Chapter 3: County Profile - Distribution, review, and discussion of

first draft changes to Chapter 3: County Profile of the Comprehensive Plan
10 Sep 2013

Governor Quinn Proclaims September 11 as Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance

By Brooke Anderson

"Portrait of a Soldier" Memorial Exhibition on Display at Columbia College Chicago

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today honored the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks and servicemembers killed in Iraq and Afghanistan by proclaiming Sept. 11, 2013 as Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance. The Governor also unveiled the "Portrait of a Soldier" memorial exhibit at Columbia College Chicago. The exhibit features a series of hand-drawn portraits of nearly all of the 306 Illinois men and women who died in the 9/11 terrorist attack, Iraq, Afghanistan or in combat service to our country since Sept. 11, 2001. The exhibit is part of Governor Quinn's long-standing commitment to honor Illinois' men and women in uniform.

"On the eve of the anniversary of one of America's darkest days, let us remember the brave servicemembers who have given their lives to protect our nation's freedom," Governor Quinn said. "We should never forget the individuals and first responders who lost their purposeful lives on September 11, 2001, and the military heroes who have since made the ultimate sacrifice overseas. We will honor them always."

In a joint resolution in December 2001, the U.S. Congress designated September 11 of each year as Patriot Day and on April 21, 2009, President Barack Obama signed into law the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, which includes language to officially establish September 11 as an annually recognized National Day of Service and Remembrance.

"The 'Portrait of a Solider' exhibit is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of our state and country," Governor Quinn said. "These sketches are a moving tribute to those Illinois citizens who gave their last full measure of devotion to protecting our freedoms."

Governor Quinn founded the "Portrait of a Soldier" memorial exhibit to honor fallen servicemembers in 2004 after artist Cameron Schilling of Mattoon drew the first portrait of Army Spc. Charles Neeley, of Mattoon, who was killed in Iraq. Schilling then committed to drawing a portrait of every Illinois servicemember who has fallen during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The "Portrait of a Soldier" memorial exhibit will be on display at Columbia College Chicago until tomorrow afternoon. The exhibit's next stop will be at Lincoln Log Cabin in Lerna from Monday, Sept. 16, until Saturday, Oct., 5, 2013.

Governor Quinn has made our veterans, servicemembers and their families one of his top priorities throughout his career in public service. He has led programs including the Illinois Warrior Assistance Program and the Veterans Cash lottery ticket, which has awarded more than $10 million to not-for-profit organizations across the state that provide health care and post-traumatic stress disorder treatment, housing assistance, disability benefits and other services to Illinois Veterans. He also championed numerous veterans' causes during his service as Lieutenant Governor and Illinois Treasurer. In 2011, Governor Quinn launched the Welcome Home Heroes program to support Illinois servicemembers seeking homeownership.

For more information on the "Portrait of a Soldier" exhibit or to view the portraits online, visit OperationHomefront.org. A copy of today's proclamation is attached.

 ###

10 Sep 2013

9/11 Day of Service

By Rep. Dave Loebsack

Dear Friend,

Tomorrow we will come together to commemorate the anniversary of the September 11th attacks. We will always remember the families of all those we lost, the first responders who rushed to the scene, the volunteers who cleared rubble or lined up to donate blood, and our men and women in uniform who have made incredible sacrifices in defense of our nation.

I will also always remember the remarkable call to service I witnessed in Iowa communities and communities across the nation in the aftermath of the attacks. We came together with a shared sense of unity, engagement, and purpose. We had been attacked, but our country's enduring values and spirit were not shaken.

In honoring our first responders, our servicemembers, and those we lost in the attacks, we must remember the unity of our nation in the aftermath of the attacks which reminded us all that we had a part to play in moving our nation forward. In keeping with the designation of September 11th as a National Day of Service and Remembrance, I want to encourage all Iowans to join me in observing the twelfth anniversary of September 11th by participating in a service event. To find volunteer opportunities in your area, visit www.serve.gov and simply enter your zip code.

Giving back to your community is a way to celebrate the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. I am proud to represent a district where neighbors pitch in to help one another, and I hope that tradition continues as we remember September 11th and beyond.

Sincerely,

Dave Loebsack
Iowa's Second District

10 Sep 2013

Loebsack Announces More Than $100,000 for Local Law Enforcement in Scott County

By Joe Hand

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack today announced that local law enforcement agencies in Scott County will receive $100,575 to support their efforts to prevent crime, keep our families and communities safe, and keep drugs off the street. The funds come from the Department of Justice's Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG) Program, which is the only source of federal funding for multi-jurisdictional drug task forces that work to prevent, fight and prosecute drug-related and violent crime. The funding will be used to reduce the amount of illegal narcotics available to the public and to identify and arrest those who distribute and manufacture illegal narcotics.

"I have long been a supporter of Byrne JAG because it supports law enforcement agencies in their efforts to keep Iowa families safe," said Loebsack. "I have met with our local law enforcement officers many times, and have always been impressed with their dedication to protecting our communities and keeping our streets drug free. I will continue to fight to ensure that Iowa's law enforcement officers have the resources they need to serve our communities."

In 2008, Loebsack led the successful bipartisan effort in the House of Representatives to prevent Byrne JAG from being eliminated and has long been a strong supporter of this program. That effort was supported by the National Narcotic Officers' Associations' Coalition, the National Fraternal Order of Police, the National Sheriff's Association and the National District Attorney's Association, amongst others.

###
06 Sep 2013

Statement from Tyler Olson on London's Resignation at DPS

By Rick Martin
Cedar Rapids - State Representative Tyler Olson, Democratic candidate for Governor issued the following statement on Brian London's resignation at the Iowa Department of Public Safety.
STATEMENT FROM REPRESENTATIVE TYLER OLSON:
"After 40 years of government service, 20 of those as Governor, Terry Branstad's judgment about how to keep Iowans safe is slipping. Between the Marshalltown Veterans Home, the Iowa Juvenile Home and now the Department of Public Safety Governor Branstad has hired people who are not up to the job and Iowans have been paying the price. Its time for a fresh approach to leadership in Iowa -- one that will keep a more protective hand on the agencies Iowans rely on and the people hired to oversee them."
###
04 Sep 2013

Loebsack Announces Nearly $20,000 for Local Law Enforcement in Clinton

By Vonnie Hampel

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack today announced that the law enforcement agencies in Clinton will receive $19,812 to support their efforts to prevent crime, keep our families and communities safe, and keep drugs off the streets. The funds come from the Department of Justice's Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG) Program, which is the only source of federal funding for multi-jurisdictional drug task forces that work to prevent, fight and prosecute drug-related and violent crime. The funding will be shared by the Clinton County Sheriff's Office and the Clinton Police Department and will be used to replace gas masks and accessories to help local law enforcement keep our communities safe and for drug intervention tactics.

"I have met with our local law enforcement officers many times, and have always been impressed with their dedication to protecting our communities and keeping our streets drug free," said Loebsack. "I have long been a supporter of Byrne JAG because it supports law enforcement agencies in their efforts to keep Iowa families safe. I will continue to fight to ensure that Iowa's law enforcement officers have the resources they need and are well equipped to serve our communities."

In 2008, Loebsack led the successful bipartisan effort in the House of Representatives to prevent Byrne JAG from being eliminated and has long been a strong supporter of this program.  That effort was supported by the National Narcotic Officers' Associations' Coalition, the National Fraternal Order of Police, the National Sheriff's Association and the National District Attorney's Association, amongst others.

###
04 Sep 2013

Gov. Branstad Makes Appointments

By Tim Albrecht

Branstad appoints Larry Noble as head of the Iowa Department of Public Safety  

(DES MOINES) - Gov. Terry E. Branstad today named Larry Noble as head of the Iowa Department of Public Safety following the resignation of Brian London.

 

"I am pleased to bring Larry Noble back to serve as Public Safety Commissioner," said Branstad. "Larry has 30 years of experience in the Iowa Department of Public Safety, and served four years in the Iowa Senate, giving him the experience and leadership ability to restore stability and predictability within this very important department of state government.

 

"I appreciate Larry's willingness to come back and serve Iowans in this important role. Larry Noble has a reputation for integrity and humility, which is important as we focus on the department's future. I have chosen Larry because he has a wealth of experience in the Iowa Department of Public Safety, and has demonstrated the ability to lead with integrity.

 

"Larry Noble has the respect of the people within the department, and he will be a strong leader as we move forward."

Branstad names Brenna Findley interim chief of staff 

(DES MOINES) - Gov. Terry E. Branstad today named Brenna Findley as the interim chief of staff for his administration. Findley, who also serves as the governor's legal counsel, has agreed to serve in this additional position until a permanent replacement is found following Jeff Boeyink's resignation last Friday.

 

"Brenna will provide continuity within our office as I search for a new chief of staff," said Branstad. "I am pleased Brenna has agreed to serve in this important role, and will rely on her leadership as we continue the work and operations of my administration."

 

The governor embarks on a trade mission to India and Japan on Friday. A permanent chief of staff will not be named prior to the governor's Sept. 18 return to Iowa.

 

# # #

 


03 Sep 2013

Governor Quinn Announces Executive Appointments

By Erin Wilson

Includes Reappointments of Illinois Gaming Board Chairman and Vice-Chairman; New Appointments to Two State University Boards

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today made a number of key appointments to the state's boards and commissions. Included in today's action are the reappointments of Judge Aaron Jaffe, Chairman of the Illinois Gaming Board and Michael Holewinski, Vice-Chairman of the Illinois Gaming Board. This announcement continues the Governor's commitment to making Illinois government more accountable, transparent and effective.

"These individuals are committed to serving the people of Illinois on our state boards and commissions," Governor Quinn said. "I am confident these capable people will help make our state an even better place to live and work."

"Just as it is critical to protect the public interest, it is also critical to have strong oversight of casino gambling in Illinois," the Governor added. "The Illinois Gaming Board has served as a strong watchdog for the last two decades and both Judge Jaffe and Mr. Holewinski have done a fine job. I am confident that in their positions they will continue keeping corruption out of the Illinois gambling industry."

As a result of Governor Quinn's efforts to make the executive appointment process more accessible and transparent, residents who are interested in serving on boards and commissions can now apply online.

Appointments made today by the Governor include :

Council on Aging:

Talat Khan of Darien is a Research Investigator at Veterans Administration and holds a Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University and a M.S. and B.S. from Osmania University.

Illinois Arts Council:

Shirley Madigan of Chicago has served on the Illinois Arts Council since 1976 and has been Chairman for more than 20 years. Ms. Madigan actively represents the Council to arts organizations, individual artists, government officials, educators and the business and philanthropy communities. Ms. Madigan has a B.A. from Gonzaga University and a master's degree in education from Loyola University.

Chicago State University Board of Trustees:

Nikki Zollar of Chicago is the president and CEO of Triad Consulting Services, Inc. and also the president of SafeSpeed, LLC. Ms. Zollar is a former Director of the Illinois Department of Financial Regulation and holds a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center and a B.A. from The John Hopkins University.

Illinois Gaming Board:

Michael Holewinski of Chicago has been reappointed as the Vice-Chairman of the Illinois Gaming Board. Mr. Holewinski is the president of Ace Industries and is a former Illinois State Representative. He is also the chairman of the Illinois Manufacturer's Association and is a member of the Illinois Business Immigration Coalition. Mr. Holewinski holds a J.D. from the John Marshall Law School.

Judge Aaron Jaffe of Evanston, who has chaired the Illinois Gaming Board since 2005, has been reappointed to Chairman of the Board. Under Judge Jaffe's leadership, the board has increased openness and transparency in the gaming industry, notably revoking the 10th casino gaming license in order to rebid the license through a fair and open process. He has consistently led efforts to hold entities that violate gaming regulations accountable. Judge Jaffe holds a J.D. from DePaul University.

Lottery Control Board:

Paul Schaefer (reappointment) of Edwardsville is a field director for United Food and Commercial Workers Local 881 and holds a B.A. from the University of Evansville.

Pollution Control Board:

Deanna Glosser (reappointment) of Riverton is the former president of Environmental Planning Solutions, Inc. and currently sits on the Board of Directors of the Illinois Stewardship Alliance. Ms. Glosser holds a B.S. from Illinois State University and a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois.

Prisoner Review Board:

Vonetta Rush of Swansea is a program coordinator for East St. Louis School District 189 and holds a M.A. from Lindenwood University a M.A. from Webster University, a M.P.A. and a B.S. from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville.

Southern Illinois University Board of Trustees:

Joel Sambursky of Carbondale is a graduate of Southern Illinois University and a president of Liberty Wealth Management, LLC. He is currently on the Board of Directors for the Carbondale Community Arts and is a former president and executive director of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Sambursky -  Southern Illinois University's quarterback from 2002-2005 - was inducted into the Saluki Hall of Fame in 2012 for having led the Salukis to three straight football conference championships and appearances at the NCAA National Playoffs. Mr. Sambursky holds a MBA and B.S. from Southern Illinois University.

For more information on all of the state's boards and commissions, or to apply to serve on a board, please visit Appointments.Illinois.gov.

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