22 Aug 2014

News and Results from the 2014 Iowa State Fair XV

By Lori Chappell

West Union Farm Sweeps Iowa State Fair Oxford Down Show

DES MOINES, IA (08/22/2014)(readMedia)-- Double O Acres of West Union took top honors in the Oxford Down Sheep show judged Sunday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

The farm was awarded the Champion Ram, Reserve Champion Ram, Champion Ewe and Reserve Champion Ewe banners. They also placed first in the Premier Exhibitor contest.

Van Roekel Family Livestock of Wellman took second place in the Premier Exhibitor contest while Lobdell Oxfords of Freeport, Ill., took third.

Additional results below (names, hometowns, animal identification):

Yearling Ram

1) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill., Lobdell 1307 RR, 2/15/2013, 297305

Fall Ram Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, DOA 14-003 NNPRR "New Era", 11/20/2013, 299107

February Ram Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, DOA 14-033 NNPRR "Big Deal", 2/10/2014, 299109

2) Double O Acres, West Union, DOA 14-036 NNPRR "Rare Deal", 2/20/2014, 299112

3) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, VR 1424 QR-NN, 2/6/2014, 298600 Ram

March & After Ram Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, DOA 14-048 NNPRR "Best Deal", 3/12/2014, 299113

2) Double O Acres, West Union, DOA 14-039 NNPRR "What A Deal", 3/2/2014, 299111

Shorn Ram Lamb - All Ages

1) Double O Acres, West Union, DOA 14-063 NNPRR "DealeRR's Deal", 3/27/2014, 299128

2) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, VR 1422 QR-NN, 1/26/2014, 298598

Pair of Ram Lambs

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Doubole "O" Acres 14-006, 1/20/2014, Applied For

2) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman

Yearling Ewe

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 13-053 NNPRR, 2/25/2013, 298175

2) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 13-058 NNPRR, 3/11/2013, 298181

3) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill., Lobdell 1314 RR, 3/5/2013, 297879

4) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill., Lobdell 1302 RR, 9/13/2012, 297302

Shorn Yearling Ewe

1) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, Van Roekel 1302 RRNN, 1/25/2013, 297364 Ewe

2) Double O Acres, West Union, Double 'O" Acres 13-015 NNPRR, 1/30/2013, 298174

3) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, Van Roekel 1309 QRNN, 2/14/2014, 297360 Ewe

4) Double O Acres, West Union, Houghtaling 13-455 NNPRR, 2/2/2013, 297721

Pair of Yearling Ewes

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-065, 3/5/2014, Applied For

2) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill.

3) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman

Fall Ewe Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-002 NNPRR "Bailey", 11/10/2013, 299127

January Ewe Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-030 NNPRR "Sweet Deal", 1/28/2014, 299117

2) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-007 NNPRR "Fancy", 1/20/2014, 299115

3) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill., Lobdell 1405 RR, 1/21/2014, 298352

February Ewe Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-032 NNPRR "Golden Opportunity", 2/10/2014, 299110

2) Double O Acres, West Union, Everett 1482 NNPQR "Kara", 2/2/2014, 298373

3) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill., Lobdell 1409 QR, 2/17/2014, 298356

March & After Ewe Lamb

1) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-060 NNPQR "Senorita", 3/5/2014, 299126

2) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-041 NNPRR "Bambi", 3/2/2014, 299119

3) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, VR 1435 QR-NN, 3/2/2014, 298604 Ewe

4) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill., Lobdell 1411 RR, 3/1/2014, 298358

Shorn Ewe Lamb - All Ages

1) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, VR 1430 RR-NN, 2/17/2014, 298603 Ewe

2) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-065 NNPRR "Enora", 3/5/2014, 299120

3) Hamilton Sheep, Bryant, Double "O" Acres 14-037 RR-NNP, 3/15/2014, 298774 Ewe

4) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman, VR 1421 RR-NN, 1/25/2014, 298597 Ewe

5) Hamilton Sheep, Bryant, Double "O" Acres 14-013 NNP, 2/20/2014, 298773 Ewe

6) Double O Acres, West Union, Double "O" Acres 14-006 NNPRR "Stylish", 3/28/2014, 299123

Pair of Ewe Lambs

1) Double O Acres, West Union

2) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman

3) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill.

4) Hamilton Sheep, Bryant

Pair of Lambs

1) Double O Acres, West Union

2) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman

Young Flock

1) Double O Acres, West Union

2) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman

Flock

1) Double O Acres, West Union

2) Lobdell Oxfords, Freeport, Ill.

3) Van Roekel Family Livestock, Wellman

4-H Crowns Top Dogs at Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/22/2014)(readMedia)-- Youth from across the state competed in the 4-H Dog Show held Sunday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair. Dogs were judged in two divisions: obedience and handling.

Complete results below:

Champion Pre-Novice A Obedience: McKenzie Lofgren, Muscatine

Reserve Champion Pre-Novice A Obedience: Erica Mehlhaus, Boone

Champion Pre-Novice B Obedience: Jessica Schoonover, Washington

Reserve Champion Pre-Novice B Obedience: Hannah Borst, Adel

Champion Sub-Novice Obedience: Aundrea Cox, Adel

Reserve Champion Sub-Novice Obedience: Tyler Pearson, Corning

Champion Novice A Obedience: Blake Sevier, Orient

Reserve Champion Novice A Obedience: Josie Harvey, Seymour

Champion Novice B Obedience: Kayla Stigers, Letts

Reserve Champion Novice B Obedience: Selena Sampson, Creston

Champion Graduate Novice A Obedience: Krista Pearson, Corning

Reserve Champion Graduate Novice A Obedience: Megan Pearson, Corning

Champion Open A Obedience: Noelle Gray, Jefferson

Champion Open B Obedience: Kassidy Monday, Tabor

Champion Rally Grades 5-6: Kelsey Hildreth, Jewell

Reserve Champion Rally Grades 5-6: Allyse Marx, Bryant

Champion Rally Grades 7-9: Haley Ledford, Fort Dodge

Reserve Champion Rally Grades 7-9: Shannon McLain, Albia

Champion Rally Grades 10-12: Marjorie Lagan, Des Moines

Reserve Champion Rally Grades 10-12: Danielle Hoenig, Keokuk

Champion Senior Handling: Jordyn Shaw, Waverly

Reserve Champion Senior Handling: Jessica Schoonover, Washington

Champion Junior Handling: Rylie Weyhrich, Boone

Reserve Champion Junior Handling: Conner Allender, Jefferson

Champion Intermediate Handling: Samantha Hardaway, Jefferson

Reserve Champion Intermediate Handling: Aundrea Cox, Adel

Top Dogs Take Honors at Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/22/2014)(readMedia)-- Stock dogs and masters gathered in Des Moines to compete in the Stock Dog Trials August 13 at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

Titles were awarded in two classes. Open class competition was open to experienced teams while Ranch class was for less experienced dogs.

In each competition, handlers work with their dogs to maneuver a small herd of animals through a series of hurdles and gates. The winners are determined by the fastest negotiation of the course.

Complete results follow:

CATTLE

Open Cattle

1) Jerry Davis, Murray

2) Tim Naasz, Platte, S.D.

3) Wayne Bamber, Alden

4) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

5) Bob Johnson, Tingley

6) Debbie Meier, Alden

7) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

8) Bob Johnson, Tingley

9) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

10tie) Jerry Davis, Murray

10tie) Nyle Sealine, Princeton, Mo.

12) Mike Davis, Murray

13tie) Curtis Dukes, Kent

13tie) Debbie Meier, Alden

15) Robin Reasoner, Saint Louis, Mo.

16) Nyle Sealine, Princeton, Mo.

17) Gary Goehring, Keosauqua

18) Tim Naasz, Platte, S.D.

19) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

20) Billy Clevenger, Moscow

21) Tim Naasz, Platte, S.D.

Ranch Cattle

1) Jerry Davis, Murray

2) Gary Goehring, Keosauqua

3) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

4) Joel Hollatz, Exline

5) Mark Triggs, Mount Ayr

6) Mary Bolton, Columbus Junction

7) Justin Keller, Seymour

8) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

9) Curtis Dukes, Kent

10) Christi McKenney, Rock Port, Mo.

11) Curtis Dukes, Kent

12) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

13) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

14) Robin Reasoner, Saint Louis, Mo.

15) Tom Damewood, Milan, Mo.

16) Richard Hall, Massena

17) James Bergert, Williams

18) Wayne Bamber, Alden

19) Monty Hogue, Cameron, Mo.

SHEEP

Open Sheep

1) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

2) Nyle Sealine, Princeton, Mo.

3) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

4) Bob Johnson, Tingley

5) Tim Naasz, Platte, S.D.

6) Robert Fleming, Leon

7) Jerry Davis, Murray

8) Nyle Sealine, Princeton, Mo.

9) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

10) Bob Johnson, Tingley

11) Tim Naasz, Platte, S.D.

12) Wayne Bamber, Alden

13) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

14) Jerry Davis, Murray

15) Mike Davis, Murray

16) Tim Naasz, Platte, S.D.

17) Robin Reasoner, Saint Louis, Mo.

Ranch Sheep

1) Curtis Dukes, Kent

2) Tom Damewood, Milan, Mo.

3) Curtis Dukes, Kent

4) Ruth Hermanson, Jewell

5) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

6) Christi McKenney, Rock Port, Mo.

7) Jerry Davis, Murray

8) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

9) Jeff Livingston, Shannon City

10) Donna Tuttle, Des Moines

11) Ruth Hermanson, Jewell

12) Mark Triggs, Mount Ayr

13) Jack Doty, Plymouth, Minn.

14) Rachel Ritland, Stanhope

15) Mary Bolton, Columbus Junction

16) Donna Tuttle, Des Moines

17) Richard Hall, Massena

18) John Holman, Clay Center, Neb.

19) Kari Carney, Norwalk

20) James Bergert, Williams

"Nothing Compares" to the Iowa State Fair. The 2014 Fair ended August 17. The 2015 Iowa State Fair is set August 13-23. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

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22 Aug 2014

Governor Quinn Signs Law to Protect Survivors of Domestic Violence

By Katie Hickey

"Diane's Law" Expands Monitoring of Domestic Abusers Released on Bail

CHICAGO - Governor Quinn today signed legislation to protect survivors of domestic violence. "Diane's Law" allows the courts to order risk assessment and electronic surveillance of those charged with domestic abuse in order to increase protections for victims of domestic violence. Today's action is part of the Governor's agenda to improve public safety across Illinois.

"We need to help protect victims and prevent future tragedies from occurring," Governor Quinn said. "The tragic loss of Diane Kephart's purposeful life left us with further proof that something had to be done to strengthen protection orders. Diane's Law will help our law enforcement authorities enforce restraining orders and increase penalties for those who commit domestic violence."

Diane's Law was written following the murder of Diane Kephart by a former boyfriend on March 15, 2013. Diane was murdered three days after renewing her protective order against an ex-boyfriend.

"I think of mom every day and wonder how much different life could have been if this bill was around a year and a half ago," Jamie Kephart, daughter of Diane Kephart, said. "I pray that it helps protect victims affected by domestic violence the way it is intended to do. I am so grateful the community recognized the necessity for Diane's Law."

House Bill 3744, sponsored by State Representative Barbara Wheeler (R-Crystal Lake) and State Senator Pamela Althoff (R-McHenry), allows the court to order individuals charged with intimate partner abuse including domestic battery, kidnapping, stalking, harassment and attempted murder to undergo a risk assessment evaluation as a condition of bail. The court may also require GPS monitoring of the defendant to help monitor and enforce restraining orders. The new law is effective Jan. 1, 2015.

"Hopefully this legislation will contribute towards keeping the victims of domestic violence safer in the future," said Representative Wheeler. "This measure will be an added tool in the hands of the justice system to protect those potentially in harm's way."

"In the case of Diane Kephart a protective order was not enough to prevent the tragedy that unfolded,"  Senator Althoff said. "This law goes beyond an order of protection and focuses on prevention by ensuring that a person charged with violent crimes is properly monitored by law enforcement."

Governor Quinn has supported and signed numerous initiatives to address domestic violence and protect its victims. He signed several laws in 2013 to address domestic violence and teen dating violence in Illinois, including: House Bill 958, which increases the penalties for domestic violence by classifying domestic violence as a felony if the defendant has a prior domestic violence conviction; House Bill 3379, which requires school boards to adopt a policy on teen dating violence; and House Bill 3300, which protects domestic violence victims who are covered by their abusers' insurance policies. The law allows insurance companies to communicate with the victims in ways that do not divulge personal information or current addresses to their abusers.

The Governor also signed legislation in 2012 to allow prosecutors to use prior domestic violence offenses as evidence in first- and second-degree murder cases involving domestic violence. He has supported initiatives and laws that prevent discrimination against individuals taking out orders of protection and providing time off from work for victims to help them address issues relating to domestic violence.

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22 Aug 2014

Surprise in Store for Local Hy-Vee Employee

By Tara Deering-Hansen

Bettendorf Hy-Vee Employee to Receive Company's Highest Customer Service Honor 

 

BETTENDORF, Iowa (Aug. 21, 2014) – The Bettendorf Hy-Vee will be the scene of a surprise announcement Friday when it's revealed that one of the store's employees has been named a 2014 Hy-Vee Legendary Customer Service Award recipient.

This award is the highest honor presented to a Hy-Vee employee. It recognizes those who go above and beyond every day to help customers and provide them with exemplary service. Only 10 recipients are selected each year from among more than 70,000 Hy-Vee employees. Winners enter the Hy-Vee Legendary Customer Service Hall of Fame and receive additional gifts and honors.

Tim Cernin, assistant vice president of operations for Hy-Vee's eastern district, will reveal the name of the honored employee in an impromptu ceremony in front of customers and employees at 4 p.m. He will be assisted by Steve Mokosak, the store director, and representatives from Hy-Vee's corporate office.

WHAT:                 Announcement of 2014 Hy-Vee Legendary Customer Service Award Recipient

 

WHEN:                 Friday, Aug. 22 at 4 p.m.

 

WHERE:               Hy-Vee, 2900 Devils Glen Road, Bettendorf, Iowa


22 Aug 2014

How to Avoid Fumbling the Football in the Red Zone of Retirement

By Ginny Grimsley
The 6 Documents You Need for Your Estate Plan Playbook

The start of football season may be months away, but the game's on the minds of many after the NFL draft. Minicamps are gearing up and team personnel are organizing in preparation for the 2014-15 season.

Football is a big deal in the United States - and so is the surge of retirees - 10,000 baby boomers every day for the next 18 years, says multi-certified planner Larry Roby. The last thing pre-retirees want to do at this stage of their lives is to fumble while in the red zone of their retirement date, he says.

"Only 23 percent of pre-retirees have calculated how much they'll need to save for retirement, according to New Retirement Landscape; while three-quarters say they're confident in the red zone of retirement, an equal amount of people haven't even done the math yet!" says Roby, founder and president of Senior Financial Advisors, (www.sfabridge.com), a wealth-management firm that holds ethics and education as top priorities.

"Confidence in your retirement portfolio is good - if it's justified. Otherwise, it can lull people into a false sense of security and lack of preparedness."

Having a diverse portfolio and understanding your options for life insurance, Social Security and 401(k) or other retirement accounts are staples for retirement planning. But there are also six crucial documents that are often either not in an individual's playbook or are overlooked.

Here are the six documents you need for a solid red zone estate plan:

•  Joint Ownership -- Enables you to own property jointly with another person and upon the death of the joint tenant, the surviving joint tenant automatically becomes the owner of the property.

•  Last Will and Testament - A legal document which expresses the wishes of a person concerning the disposition of their property after death and names the person who will manage the estate.

•  Durable Power of Attorney - Grants authority to another individual to act on behalf of the person who executes the instrument and are commonly used for legal and financial purposes.

•  Durable Health Care Power of Attorney- Grants authority to another individual to make health care decisions on your behalf should you be unable to make such decisions.

•  Advance Care Directive - A set of written instructions in which a person specifies what actions should be taken for their health, if they are no longer able to make decisions due to illness or incapacity.

•  Living Trust - Created during your lifetime.  Assets are transferred to the trust while you are alive.  Provides written instructions for the disbursement of the trust assets upon your death.

"These documents can play a vital role in the major plays during the fourth quarter of your life," Roby says. "Understanding how they work now can make the difference between a last-minute victory or loss."

About Larry Roby

Larry Roby is the founder and president of Senior Financial Advisors, (www.sfabridge.com). He is a four-year member of the Million Dollar Round Table and has achieved "Court of the Table" status for the past three years. Roby attained his Series 65 license, which allows him to serve as an Investment Advisor Representative. He is also a Registered Financial Consultant, IARFC.org; RICP, Retirement Income Certified Professional; Licensed Insurance Agent and MCEP, Master Certified Estate Planner - NICEP.com.

20 Aug 2014

The National Parenting Center releases the Fall 2014 Seal of Approval Report

By D. Gaynes

WEDNESDAY- August 20, 2014 - The National Parenting Center has released its 24th annual Fall Seal of Approval report.  The second report of 2014 follows two months of consumer testing by parents and children at The National Parenting Center's test centers.  A recent independent survey indicated that nearly 60% of mothers rely on awards such as the Seal of Approval when making final purchase decisions for their children.  As such, recognition from The National Parenting Center has become a significant bellwether for retail and online buyers as to which products will ultimately succeed in connecting with consumers.  Perhaps that is why Amazon has elected to identify all Seal of Approval winners on their product pages (to see a sample click here)

TNPC's evaluative process gauges consumer reaction to products currently being marketed to both parents and their children such as toys, games, books, videos, websites, educational products, etc.  Each is reviewed on a variety of levels including, but not limited to, price, packaging, design, stimulation, desirability, age appropriateness, instructions and more.  TNPC's Seal of Approval is ultimately a peer-to-peer review program to recognize and highlight products and services that have been met with a "thumbs up" by parents.

Since 1989, The National Parenting Center has established itself as North America's leading parent advocacy organization.  TNPC offers advice and information to parents on issues that range from pregnancy through adolescence.  The National Parenting Center's home page, TNPC.COM, offers visitors free access to hundreds of articles on parenting issues as well as Seal of Approval reviews.

20 Aug 2014

News and Results from the 2014 Iowa State Fair XIV

By Lori Chappell

Quarter Horses Win Big at Iowa State Fair Competition

DES MOINES, IA (08/20/2014)(readMedia)-- Winners in more than 70 classes of competition were named on Sunday in the 2014 Iowa State Fair Quarter Horse Show.

The Iowa State Fair Quarter Horse Show was a double-judged show. In such a show, the use of two judges, independent of one another, takes place. Thus, two sets of results are produced with two full sets of American Quarter Horse Association points being awarded.

Complete results attached:

View Online: http://readme.readmedia.com/Quarter-Horses-Win-Big-at-Iowa-State-Fair-Competition/9646959

Attachments

Miniature Horses Impress Judges at Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/20/2014)(readMedia)-- The 2014 Iowa State Fair Miniature Horse show was judged August 10 through 12.

The show was double-judged, meaning two judges independently evaluated each class resulting in two sets of placements for each.

Complete results attached:

View Online: http://readme.readmedia.com/Miniature-Horses-Impress-Judges-at-Iowa-State-Fair/9647051

Attachments

Exhibitors Awarded for Top Poultry at Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (08/20/2014)(readMedia)-- Exhibitors from across the Midwest brought their finest birds to the Poultry Show judged Tuesday at the 2014 Iowa State Fair.

Complete results attached:

View Online: http://readme.readmedia.com/Exhibitors-Awarded-for-Top-Poultry-at-Iowa-State-Fair/9647093

Attachments

20 Aug 2014

IOWA AVIATION MUSEUM TO HONOR IOWA'S "2ND GENERATION" OF AVIATION PROMOTERS

By Rick Martin

GREENFIELD, Iowa - August 19, 2014 - The Iowa Aviation Museum is proud to announce the upcoming dedication ceremony honoring the men and women whose hard work has created the Iowa general aviation industry we enjoy today.

Opening in May 1990, the Iowa Aviation Museum, located in Greenfield, was formed to preserve, display and educate the public on Iowa's rich aviation heritage. The collection includes many vintage aircraft and other historical memorabilia ranging from balloons of the 1800s to Iowa's contribution to space exploration.

Aviation legend Howard Gregory dedicated the museum to the original Aviation Pioneers, the men and women whose hard work, tireless hours and sometimes dangerous efforts created the Iowa general aviation industry of airports, aerial transportation, instruction and agriculture applicators.

As the museum approaches its silver anniversary we are honoring the next generation of Iowa aviation promoters. These are the airport operators, pilots, mechanics, and salesmen whose untiring efforts continued the work of their predecessors to give us the Iowa aviation system we enjoy today. Many are the sons and daughters of the original aviation pioneers and for this reason shall be referred to as the "2nd Generation."

Twenty-seven individuals were chosen by their peers and will be recognized at a formal ceremony including the dedication of a plaque bearing their names with this inscription:

"Celebrating the Iowa Aviation Museum's silver anniversary, it is only fitting to honor the Fixed Base Operators, Pilots and Mechanics who continued the hard work and long hours of the Aviation Pioneers to mold General Aviation into what we enjoy today! A quarter century later, they worked tirelessly promoting aviation in the 1970s and 1980s. Many are the sons and daughters of the early Iowa Aviation Pioneers; for this reason they shall be forever known as the "2nd Generation."

Jim Bartholomew, Charles Hawley, Ron Remmers, Larry Berens, Russ Knok, Hazel Sigafoose, Willard Carson, Bill Kyle, Dan C.B. Smith, Jim Connel,l Ernie LeClaire, Bill Smothers, Mike Connell, Gary & Janet Lewis, J.B. Straley, Robert Dahl, John Lowe, Jerry Strunk, Ed Doyle, Ivan McBride, John Tibben, Richard Drake, Bob Mosley, Dick Westbrook, Paul Elmegreen, Lee Nichols, Russell Zangger

The Iowa Aviation Museum is honoring the "2nd Generation Iowa Aviation Promoters at a ceremony to take place Sunday, August 24th during the 22nd annual "Wings" fly-in. Breakfast served from 7:30-11 with ceremony and plaque unveiling at 10. Public is invited. For more information call the Iowa Aviation Museum at 641-343-7184.

19 Aug 2014

Governor Quinn Signs Laws to Protect Vulnerable Adults and Seniors

By Katie Hickey

New Laws Improve Procedures for Reporting and Resolving Problems with Individuals in Nursing Homes or Community Settings

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today signed two new laws that protect vulnerable adults and senior citizens across Illinois. The new laws improve procedures for reporting and resolving problems with individuals in nursing homes or community settings. Today's action is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to improve safety, care and quality of life for Illinois' senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

"Protecting our most vulnerable family members is one of the most important duties we have," Governor Quinn said. "These new laws will help ensure that our older adults and individuals with disabilities receive the highest quality of care no matter where they choose to live."

"The health and safety of our loved ones in nursing homes and long-term care facilities is one of our top priorities," Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck said. "New means of accepting and compiling complaints about a nursing facility will help the Department better identify new ways to investigate and substantiate anonymous complaints, ultimately helping to ensure quality care for residents."

"The law to expand the authority of the long-term care ombudsman will make sure that older adults and persons with disabilities ages 18 to 59 who live in a community setting and receive medical assistance waiver services and managed care services receive the same advocacy rights and quality of life protections as people who reside in nursing homes around the state," Department on Aging Director John K. Holton said. "Furthermore, this law now allows for ombudsman to have unrestricted private communication with any consenting resident without the additional consent of a legal guardian."

House Bill 5703, sponsored by State Representative Michael Unes (R-Pekin) and State Senator Julie A. Morrison (D-Deerfield), allows complaints about a nursing home or long-term care facility to be submitted electronically to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). It also requires that complainant questions be provided on the IDPH website, along with notification that complaints made with less information are far more difficult to respond to and investigate. IDPH will annually review the complaint process and produce reports for long-term care advisory boards and councils, who can provide suggestions on how to investigate and substantiate anonymous complaints while eliminating frivolous ones. HB 5703 takes effect immediately.

"These are common sense reforms that allow for a better complaint and response process," Representative Unes said. "This will make for a more fair procedure to investigate complaints and provide for facilities to better understand the complaints made with Public Health."

Senate Bill 798, sponsored by State Senator Heather Steans (D-Chicago) and State Representative Naomi Jakobsson (D-Urbana), expands the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program to include advocacy for individuals in the Adult Protective Services program. The new law also allows ombudsmen more open access to individuals living in community-based settings and allows the ombudsman to report any business-related offense directly to the Attorney General or the county state's attorney. The new law is effective Jan. 1, 2015.

"This law expands the long-term care ombudsman program, enhancing its capabilities, reach and coordination with other agencies," Senator Steans said. "It's good news for senior citizens and families navigating the often confusing world of long-term care, and it's an essential part of Illinois' ongoing nursing home reforms."

"With this new law, the ombudsmen will be able to have direct contact with our citizens living in community-based settings," Representative Jakobsson said. "That direct contact will enable the ombudsmen to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves."

Governor Quinn also today signed Senate Bill 2958, sponsored by Senator Steans and State Representative Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago), which creates a three-year pilot program for certified nursing assistants (CNAs) to administer medication in a limited setting under the supervision of a Registered Nurse. This will help fill the immediate need for more healthcare professionals created by the Affordable Care Act. The law is effective immediately.

In 2013, Governor Quinn signed legislation to create the state's first-ever Adult Protective Services Unit to ensure that every allegation made by those who are elderly or disabled is thoroughly investigated. The Governor has increased eligibility levels for households to qualify for programs such as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and the Illinois home Weatherization Assistance Program for those who need assistance paying heating bills during winter months, with a priority given to households containing elderly members, persons with a disability or young children.

The elderly are often the targets of financial exploitation. Over the years, Governor Quinn has signed legislation that strengthens training standards for employees of financial institutions who have direct contact with customers, increased the penalties for financial exploitation of the elderly or those who are disabled, and for the Illinois Department on Aging to receive reports of elder abuse or neglect from senior service providers via the internet. He also signed legislation allowing the state to freeze a defendant's assets if he or she is charged with financial exploitation of the elderly, giving law enforcement a chance to obtain reports of elder abuse or neglect.

Governor Quinn issued an executive order to strengthen protections for adults with disabilities who are suspected victims of mistreatment in state-operated facilities and to ensure that potential cases be properly reviewed and referred to the appropriate authorities.

The Governor has proclaimed July "Elder Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month in Illinois" every year since 2009.

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19 Aug 2014

U.S. Coast Guard issues interim rule for offshore supply vesses of at least 6,000 GT ITC, effective immediately

By U.S. Coast Guard HQ Public Affairs

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Coast Guard Tuesday issued an interim rule regarding regulations to mitigate the risk created by the removal of the statutory size limit previously placed on offshore supply vessels. The regulations were effective immediately upon publication in the Federal Register.

The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 removed the statutory size limit previously placed on offshore supply vessels and required the Coast Guard to issue regulations to mitigate the risk created as a result, noting the need to ensure safe carriage of oil, hazardous substances and individuals other than crew on OSVs of at least 6,000 gross tonnage as measured under the Convention Measurement System.

Also, this rule will affect any vessel of at least 500 gross register tons as measured under the Regulatory Measurement System, if that vessel is not assigned a measurement under the Convention Measurement System and the owner desires to have the vessel certified as an OSV.

This interim rule may be found at: https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2014/08/18/2014-18721/offshore-supply-vessels-of-at-least-6000-gt-itc.

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19 Aug 2014

Branstad, Reynolds announce unveiling of Sen. Harlan statue at Iowa Wesleyan College in Mount Pleasant August 28

By Office of the Governor of the State of Iowa

Statue returns to Iowa after 104 years at U.S. Capitol's Hall of Columns

(DES MOINES) - Gov. Terry E. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds today announced a statue of former U.S. Senator James Harlan has returned to Iowa from Washington, D.C., and will be unveiled next week at Iowa Wesleyan College in Mount Pleasant.

The Harlan statue represented Iowa at the U.S. Capitol from 1910 until this year when it was replaced with one of the late Dr. Norman Borlaug of Cresco. The Iowa Legislature voted to put the Harlan statue on permanent loan from the state of Iowa to Iowa Wesleyan where it will be unveiled at 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, 2014. More information is available at www.iwc.edu/Harlan.

"Senator Harlan has a strong historical connection to Iowa Wesleyan, so we are very pleased his statue will have a permanent home there," Branstad said Monday during his regular weekly press conference. "The unveiling will also be a historic event because it is the first time we've had a statue of this significance come back from the U.S. Capitol. I'm looking forward to being at the unveiling and invite all Iowans to learn more about Senator Harlan."

"The unveiling of the Harlan statue will be a proud moment for our state," Reynolds said. "Senator Harlan's commitment to public service and education is inspiring. I am very pleased his statue will be at Iowa Wesleyan where students, faculty and staff and visitors can be reminded of the legacy he has in Iowa and the United States."

Harlan became president of Iowa Wesleyan in 1853 before being elected to the U.S. Senate in 1855. He also served as Secretary of the Interior and was considered a close friend and advisor to President Abraham Lincoln. Harlan's daughter, Mary, married Robert Todd Lincoln, the 16th president's son, and the couple's Mount Pleasant home sits on the north end of the Iowa Wesleyan campus and is known as the Harlan-Lincoln House. Harlan died in Mount Pleasant in 1899 and is buried in Forest Home Cemetery.

"The installation of Senator James Harlan's statue will be an historic event and a proud moment for us," Iowa Wesleyan College President Steven Titus said during the press conference. "We are very pleased to have the statue in Mount Pleasant. It represents Harlan's achievements as a two-time president of Iowa Wesleyan and as a public servant. Harlan was determined to advance the mission of the college and the impact he had on Iowa Wesleyan is remarkable."

The creation of the Borlaug statue and relocation of the Harlan statue was led by the Dr. Norman E. Borlaug Statue Committee appointed by Gov. Branstad and chaired by Ambassador Kenneth M. Quinn. The Department of Cultural Affairs provided administrative support to the Borlaug Committee.

The Harlan statue had been on display in the U.S. Capitol as part of the National Statuary Hall Collection, which holds and displays two statues of notable citizens from every state in the nation. The other statue representing Iowa is of former Iowa Governor Samuel Kirkwood.

"When we're discussing the Harlan statue, it is important to note that it is one of just three statues to represent Iowa in the National Statuary Hall Collection, which is considered one the most prominent collections of sculpted works in the world," DCA Director Cownie said. "To have this statue coming back to Iowa, to be on display in a public setting at Iowa Wesleyan, combines the highest levels of artistic and historical significance in one piece for all to see and enjoy."

In 2011, the Iowa Legislature approved a resolution to replace the statue of Sen. Harlan with one of Borlaug, who received the Nobel Peace Prize, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the Congressional Gold Medal for his work in developing new varieties of wheat. Borlaug is credited with saving a billion people around the world from hunger and starvation.

The unveiling of the Harlan statue coincides with a number of other events being held Thursday, Aug. 28, 2014, throughout Mount Pleasant and include Opening Ceremonies at the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion at 11:30 a.m. at 405 East Threshers Road and the 1:15 p.m. Ribbon Cutting Celebration of the 1861 Union Block Building located at 111 West Monroe Street. The Harlan-Lincoln House on the Iowa Wesleyan College campus will also be open for tours from 3-5 p.m.

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