23 Mar 2012

Governor Quinn Secures SBA Disaster Assistance for Tornado Recovery

By Annie Thompson

People, Businesses in Nine Southern Illinois Counties Eligible to Apply

for Low-Interest Loans

 

SPRINGFIELD - March 22, 2012. Governor Pat Quinn today announced that the state's request for a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster declaration has been approved for nine counties in Southern Illinois that were hit by deadly tornadoes and severe storms on Feb 29.

 

The declaration makes low-interest loans available to homeowners, renters and businesses in the primary county of Saline, as well as the contiguous counties of Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Johnson, Pope, White and Williamson.

 

"I'm very pleased with the swift approval of our request for SBA assistance," Governor Quinn said. "This is great news for many people and businesses who suffered devastating losses from the tornadoes and severe storms. The low-interest, long-term loans available through SBA will provide a much-needed helping hand as people repair and rebuild their homes and businesses."

 

Governor Quinn submitted the request for an SBA disaster declaration on Wednesday after receiving word that the state's appeal to FEMA for a federal disaster declaration had been denied. In his letter to the SBA, Governor Quinn affirmed that there are at least 25 homes and/or businesses that sustained uninsured losses of 40 percent or more.

 

"These low-interest loans from the Small Business Administration will be a big help for the people who lost homes and businesses to the terrible storms and tornadoes," said Sen. Gary Forby (D-Benton). "The state of Illinois has been great. We're already doing a lot for these unfortunate families. I'm glad that the federal government is lending a hand, too."

 

"Although I was disappointed that we did not receive a FEMA disaster declaration, I am happy that the SBA approved the Governor's request for assistance so quickly," said Rep. Brandon Phelps (D-Harrisburg). "These low-interest loans mean that the people of southern Illinois can put the devastation of last month's storms in the past, and instead work on rebuilding and moving forward."

 

"This SBA disaster declaration will help many people and businesses with their recovery efforts," said Jonathon Monken, director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA). "I encourage people to contact the SBA to learn more about these loans."

 

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23 Mar 2012

Statement from Governor Pat Quinn On FEMA's Denial of State's Appeal for Federal Assistance for Southern Illinois Tornado

By Nafia Khan

SPRINGFIELD - March 21, 2012. Governor Pat Quinn today issued the following statement regarding FEMA's denial of the state's appeal for federal assistance to help people affected by the Feb. 29 tornado.

 

"Today we were informed that FEMA denied our appeal for federal assistance to help people in Southern Illinois rebuild their homes and lives following the deadly tornado and storms on Feb. 29. I am very disappointed with this decision and do not believe it reflects the reality and devastation on the ground. I remain committed to obtaining any and all assistance available to help our Southern Illinois communities recover.

 

"At this time we are submitting a request to the U.S. Small Business Administration seeking low-interest loans that will help many people rebuild their homes and replace personal items lost in the storms. I urge the SBA to review and approve this request quickly so that people can begin to apply for those loans.

 

"On Thursday, staff from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency will meet with a recovery specialist from FEMA Region 5 and pursue other viable options to provide much-needed assistance to those in great need. My administration will continue deploying all state agencies and continue maximizing all the options available to lessen the burden for storm victims.

 

"I again want to thank Senator Dick Durbin, Senator Mark Kirk and the Illinois Congressional Delegation for their tireless support of our efforts to help the people of Southern Illinois."

 

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23 Mar 2012

Braley Introduces Bill to Create National "Kadyn's Law"

By Rick Martin

Bill would require states to match new Iowa penalties for passing stopped school bus

 

Washington, DC - Less than one week after Governor Terry Branstad signed "Kadyn's Law" to strengthen penalties in Iowa for drivers that pass stopped school buses, Rep. Bruce Braley (IA-01) today introduced a bill that would seek to apply Iowa's new tough penalties under "Kadyn's Law" to the entire country.

 

Kadyn's Law was championed in Iowa by Kadyn's mother, Kari Halverson, her family, and Kim Koenigs, a local advocate.

 

The federal Kadyn's Law would require states to strengthen their penalties for drivers who pass stopped school buses to the new Iowa standard at a minimum - or face losing 10 percent of federal highway funding each year.

 

Braley said, "When reckless drivers ignore warnings and pass stopped school buses, children's lives are put in danger.  Toughening penalties for drivers who violate school bus safety laws will save lives and convince more people to drive responsibly around kids and schools.  It's a common sense change that rises above petty partisan politics.

 

Braley continued, "Thanks to Kadyn, Iowa has become a national leader in school bus safety.  It's time every state adopt these strict standards so the penalty matches the severity of this crime."

 

Kari Halverson said, "The fact that Kadyn's Law is being introduced at a federal level today is beyond amazing to us.  As a mother who has lost a child by someone illegally passing by a stopped school bus, I can only hope and pray our leaders at the national level will embrace this act for our children all over the country.  I applaud Congressman Bruce Braley for stepping up and taking on an issue that is extremely near and dear to my heart as well as others who have lost children in this way."

 

Iowa's Kadyn's Law mandates for first offenders fines of at least $250 and the possibility of jail time of up to 30 days.  For a second offense of passing a stopped school bus within 5 years, fines would range from between $315 and $1,875 with up to one year of jail time.

 

The federal Kadyn's Law would threaten to cut 10 percent of a state's federal highway funds each year until that state adopts at least these standards.

 

The National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services estimates that cars illegally pass stopped school buses 13 million times per year.  An average of 16 children per year are killed by drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses.

 

Full bill text can be downloaded at the following link: http://go.usa.gov/ED2

 

# # #
23 Mar 2012

Scott County Farmer Wins $2,500 for Eldridge Fire Department Through America's Farmers Grow CommunitiesSM

By Rick Martin

Richard and Mary Hemphill of Davenport have been selected as winners in America's Farmers Grow CommunitiesSM, which gives farmers the opportunity to win $2,500 for their favorite local nonprofit organizations. The donations are available through the Monsanto Fund. Richard and Mary have designated the Eldridge Fire Department to receive the award in Scott County.

In 1,245 eligible counties in 39 states, farmers could win $2,500 for their favorite community nonprofit.  The Monsanto Fund expects to invest more than $3.1 million in local communities.

America's Farmers Grow Communities is part of a broad commitment by the Monsanto Fund to highlight the important contributions farmers make every day to our society by helping them grow their local communities. Nearly 60,000 farmers participated in the second annual Grow Communities program, which is designed to benefit nonprofit groups such as ag youth, schools and other civic organizations. For more information and to see a full list of winners, visit www.growcommunities.com.

 

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19 Mar 2012

Harkin Announces More Than $100,000 for Affordable Housing Assistance in Iowa

By Sen. Tom Harkin

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) today announced that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded Iowa a total of $101,056 in grants under the Housing Counseling Program.  The funds will go toward counseling services to homebuyers, homeowners, low-to-moderate-income renters, and the homeless to expand homeownership and improve access to affordable housing.  Harkin is a senior member of the Appropriations subcommittee that funds HUD.

"Quality, affordable housing is a necessity and any funds that can go toward expanding access to it is money well-spent," said Harkin.  "I congratulate all of these recipients on this competitive funding and look forward to the improvements it will generate."

The funding was awarded as follows:

Center for Siouxland - $25,000
Eastern Iowa Regional Housing Authority - $24,465
Home Opportunities Made Easy, Inc. (HOME, Inc.) - $28,014
United Neighbors, Inc. - $23,577

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19 Mar 2012

This Week in the Senate by Senator Shawn Hamerlinck

By Shawn Hamerlinck

March 16, 2012

The first policy bill I authored this year passed through the Iowa Senate chambers on Tuesday.  In order to receive veteran discounts at stores, veterans must prove status.  It is irrational to believe these individuals must carry around their DD214 and Discharge Certificates to receive a 10% discount at a local business.  These documents are as important as birth certificates.  Therefore, Senate File 2037 allows the word "Veteran" to appear on a driver's license or a state issued ID to serve the same purpose.  Keep your DD214 in the lock box from now on!

The second funnel deadline appeared on Thursday which means any bill which has not passed one of the chambers and a committee in the other chamber is no longer available for discussion.  Think of this as a taxpayer protection rule.  This means all the wish list bills are now dead.

Budget bills have stalled as the House, Senate and governor's office are showing off to each other like peacocks displaying their feathers.  No one is ready to start the fight but the cards have clearly been displayed.  As a result there was still time this week to move through a series of "post-card" bills.  These are bills which sound good in theory and great to use as campaign fodder, however, in true application they are difficult to enforce.

The Iowa Senate passed a series of preservation clauses to buy American products and employ Iowa businesses in government contracts.  Though I whole-heartedly agree with the concept of these bills we must watch states like Illinois establishing the same protectionist clauses against Iowa companies.  These bills have the greatest impact upon the interstate commerce of companies on our borders.  Think of an Illinois company receiving a 5% leeway on bidding against Iowa companies.  Also, I fully support U.S. steel used in construction projects, however we must take on the bigger issue that steel refineries have largely been exported.  We are now feeling the drastic effects of businesses moving overseas.

The Iowa Senate also passed a bill allowing online gambling in virtual poker rooms with real money.  As I have never been a fan of gaming I simply caution on the extent which online gaming may go to in the future.  There is a possibility to move to betting on sporting events and even political races.  Sometimes, like with touch-play machines, you get more than what you asked for.

Next week the Senate will return to debate on education reform.  I look forward to sending you an update.  Thank you for the opportunity to serve in the Iowa Senate.


For more information please visit www.shawnhamerlinck.com.

hamerlinck signaturesmall.jpg
Shawn Hamerlinck
State Senator
District 42

19 Mar 2012

MOLINE FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES GRANT DEADLINE FOR KAREN'S SUMMERTIME FUND

By Linda Martin
The Moline Foundation has a grant opportunity through a fund called Karen's
Summertime FUNd in honor of Karen Getz. Through the Karen's Summertime FUNd,
The Moline Foundation is offering mini-grants between $300 and $1,000. The object of
this special opportunity is to provide non-profit organizations extra funds to develop
creative, educational, and fun-filled activities for kids during the summer months. Non-
profit organizations are encouraged to apply if they serve the citizens of Moline and the
surrounding region, including the Quad Cities.

Karen's Summertime FUNd grants are made possible by Tom Getz, the Getz
family and friends and many generous donors to The Moline Foundation. In establishing
Karen's Summertime FUNd program, the Moline Foundation honors the life of a woman
who gave to so many others. This special program will help us remember the many ways
Karen Getz reached out to children with her sparkling personality and tireless spirit.
All materials necessary to receive funds are due in The Moline Foundation offices
by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, April 13, 2012 or must be postmarked by or on Friday, April 13,
2012. Please call The Moline Foundation at (309) 764-4193 to request a Grant
Application.
Any child oriented non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization, including those who have
never received Moline Foundation funding in the past, is welcome to apply.
The Moline Community Foundation offices are located at the Deere-Wiman
House, 817 11th Avenue, Moline.
The Moline Foundation, founded in 1953, is a community foundation which
provides grants to health, human services, education, community development, the arts
and other charitable organizations. The Moline Foundation receives and administers
charitable gifts for the benefit of citizens in Scott County, Iowa and Rock Island, Mercer,
Henry, Warren, Henderson, and McDonough counties in Illinois.
-30-
19 Mar 2012

Scott County-wide Burn Ban in Lifted

By Ross E. Bergen

March 22, 2012

Effective 1:45 pm today the county-wide burn ban has been lifted with the approval of the Scott County Fire Chiefs.

March 14,  2012

At the request of the Scott County Fire Chiefs a county wide burn ban is being requested effective immediately.  Coordination with the State Fire Marshal Office will be finalized Thursday morning on this request.  We expect an official ban to be approved tomorrow.  Due to the extremely dry conditions, the Chiefs are requesting this ban be in effect until measurable rainfall is experienced.

IOWA CODE SECTION 100.40

100.40 Marshal may prohibit open burning on request.

1. The state fire marshal, during periods of extremely dry conditions or under other

conditions when the state fire marshal finds open burning constitutes a danger to life

or property, may prohibit open burning in an area of the state at the request of the

chief of a local fire department, a city council or a board of supervisors and when

an investigation supports the need for the prohibition. The state fire marshal shall

implement the prohibition by issuing a proclamation to persons in the affected area.

The chief of a local fire department, the city council or the board of supervisors that

requested the prohibition may rescind the proclamation after notifying the state fire

marshal of the intent to do so, when the chief, city council or board of supervisors

finds that the conditions responsible for the issuance of the proclamation no longer

exist.

2. Violation of a prohibition issued under this section is a simple misdemeanor.

3. A proclamation issued by the state fire marshal pursuant to this section shall not

prohibit a supervised, controlled burn for which a permit has been issued by the fire

chief of the fire district where the burn will take place, the use of outdoor fireplaces,

barbecue grills, properly supervised landfills, or the burning of trash in incinerators

or trash burners made of metal, concrete, masonry, or heavy one-inch wire mesh,

with no openings greater than one square inch.

19 Mar 2012

Simon wants state hearing on Starved Rock sand mine

By Kathryn Phillips
Asks LaSalle County Board to initiate hearing, promote public input

SPRINGFIELD - March 12, 2012. Lt. Governor Sheila Simon is advocating for more transparency and public input as a proposal to open a sand mine on 300 acres of farm land adjacent to Starved Rock State Park moves ahead.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is only required under state law to hold a public hearing on the proposed Mississippi Sand, LLC mine if a hearing is requested by the LaSalle County Board, Simon said. IDNR is not expressly required by law to hold a public hearing at any other party's request.

Simon sent a letter today to the LaSalle County Board urging it to request IDNR hold a hearing on the project's reclamation plan. The plan explains how the mine would be used in 40 years, after the sand is exhausted. Mississippi Sand, LLC proposes to fill the mine with water and turn it into a recreational lake.

"Your action in demanding the hearing will show your commitment to an open, public process that serves all citizens of your county," Simon said in the letter addressed to LaSalle County Chairman Jerry Hicks. "Democracy is not speedy, and it works best when as many people as possible, representing all sides of an issue, can provide input."

Simon serves as chair of the Illinois River, Mississippi River and Ohio and Wabash Rivers Coordinating Councils, advisory bodies comprised of citizens and government agency officials that work with local communities to raise awareness of watershed issues. The Illinois River Coordinating Council adopted a resolution in February to promote public input into the mine proposal and ensure local, state, and federal agencies consider fully all impacts of the proposed mine.

Starved Rock State Park is located along the south side of the Illinois River, one mile south of Utica. Known for its hiking trails and eagle watching, the park celebrated its centennial anniversary in 2010 and set an attendance record in 2011, attracting nearly 2.2 million visitors.

Mississippi Sand, LLC is seeking a permit for phase one of the project, which would mine sand from 80 acres near the east entrance of the park. The proposed sand mine would create 39 jobs.

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19 Mar 2012

Statement from Governor Pat Quinn On FEMA Denial of State Disaster Assistance Request

By Andrew Mason
SPRINGFIELD - March 11, 2012. Governor Pat Quinn today issued the following statement regarding FEMA's denial of the state's request for federal assistance for people and businesses in Southern Illinois that were impacted by the Feb. 29 tornado.

"I am extremely disappointed that FEMA denied our request for federal assistance that is needed to help people in Harrisburg, Ridgway and the other communities devastated by this deadly tornado. After personally surveying the damage and talking to many residents who lost their homes, I firmly believe federal assistance is crucial to help them begin the recovery process.

"I support Senator Dick Durbin's efforts to encourage federal officials to reconsider their decision. In the meantime, I have directed Illinois Emergency Management Agency Director Jonathon Monken to continue working with local officials to ensure that we do everything possible to secure critical assistance."

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