Deadline Nearing for America's Farmers Grow Communities  ProjectTo Help Communities During Tough Economy


ST. LOUIS (Feb. 5, 2010) - In this tough economic climate, fundraising can be particularly challenging for many non-profit organizations. But now, agricultural youth groups as well as civic organizations across Iowa can enlist support from local farmers to win a $2,500 award. The application process for farmers is simple. With the deadline fast approaching, they just need to visit www.growcommunities.com and fill out a short form by Feb. 28, 2010.


The America's Farmers Grow Communities  Project is a pilot program that enables farmers throughout Iowa and in parts of Arkansas and Missouri to enter a local agricultural organization or other non-profit community group to win a donation. Monsanto Company, the program sponsor, will award one $2,500 donation in each of the eligible counties, which include all 99 Iowa counties amounting to nearly $250,000 in statewide funding.


"Although only farmers can submit an award application, we're also encouraging eligible community organizations to approach farmers they know to ask to be entered," said John Raines, Monsanto Vice President of Customer Advocacy. "From looking at the entries coming in, we are impressed by the diversity of very worthwhile community groups that are important to Iowa farmers."


Ag youth organizations, such as 4-H and FFA, account for many of farmer entries received to date. Other community groups also receiving a high number of entries include schools, libraries, fire departments and emergency medical services, economic development groups, hospitals and community centers.


To participate, Iowa farmers must be age 21 and over and be actively engaged in farming a minimum of 250 acres of corn and/or soybeans. The application period runs through Feb. 28, 2010. The program is open to all qualifying farmers, and there is no purchase requirement.


Farmers can apply online or request a copy of the official rules of the award program at www.growcommunities.com, by calling 1.877.267.3332 or by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to America's Farmers Grow Communities Project, 914 Spruce St., St. Louis, Mo. 63102.

The American Cancer Society's Discovery Shop in Cumberland Square invites you to bargain shop for a cause! Sunday, February 7th will be our annual super clearance sale EVERYTHING in the store will be half price.

Mark you calendars and stop in to grab all of the bargains that you can find and be back home long before the big game starts. We are clearing out the floor to make room for all of the new and beautiful donations that we have recently been receiving. With the new things that we will be putting out on the floor starting Monday, February 8th the bargains will continue long after the game is over.

The Discovery Shop is an upscale resale shop selling gently used items donated by the community and staffed by over 100 volunteers. All clothing is cleaned and ironed before it is sold and dry cleaning is donated by Burke's Dry Cleaners. Proceeds go to the American Cancer Society for cancer research, education, patient services and advocacy.

Donations are accepted anytime the shop is open and a tax receipt is always available. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 am to 5 pm., Thursday from 10 am to 7 pm., and Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.


Monticello, IA–Camp Courageous is planning a "Dad & Daughters" dinner and dance. This special event is scheduled on Valentine's Day, Sunday, February 14, 2010 in the camp's main lodge.

The evening begins with arrival at 5 p.m., followed by dinner served at 5:30 pm and dancing until 7:30 pm. Musical entertainment will feature selections sure to please both Dad and his Daughter(s) as they enjoy a unique evening together.

Tickets for the event are available for $25.00 a couple and $10.00 for each additional daughter.  Tickets need to be purchased in advance. For tickets or more information contact Sharon Roller at (319-465-5916 Extension 2200) or June Fellinger at Treasured Weddings (319-480-0952).  All proceeds for this event goes to benefit over 5,000 campers with special needs who visit Camp Courageous each year.

Camp Courageous is a recreational and respite care facility for individuals with disabilities.  It is run on donations, without government support, without paid fundraisers, and without formal sponsorship.

Call for Entries

Stuttering Foundation's 19th Annual Media Awards Competition; New Category Recognizes Internet Media

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The Stuttering Foundation announces it will recognize journalists for the 19th consecutive year for excellence in reporting that furthers the understanding of this complex disorder.

"We are happy to announce these awards to further public awareness of stuttering," said Jane Fraser. "Media coverage has grown substantially in volume and sensitivity in recent years. We want to continue recognizing outstanding reporters."

The 19th annual Stuttering Foundation Awards will be given to journalists in three categories: print, electronic media (radio and TV), and Internet (Web sites, blogs, and electronic publications). They will recognize news stories that:

• Advanced the public`s understanding of stuttering;

• Introduced information on stuttering to a significant new audience.

Journalists are invited to submit copies, DVDs, and printed Web/blog pages of their news items to the Stuttering Foundation, P.O. Box 11749, Memphis, TN 38111-0749. All entries must have been published or aired between Jan. 1, 2009, and April 20, 2010. All entries must be received by April 30, 2010. There is no charge to enter this competition.

In addition to a public announcement of the Award recipients, each honoree will receive a cash award of $250.00 from the Foundation.

The nonprofit Stuttering Foundation that has worked toward the prevention and improved treatment of stuttering since 1947.  For more information, call 800-992-9392 or visit www.stutteringhelp.org.

STARS IN FLIGHT

Stars in Flight is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping our youth feel more connected to our community through the art of music.

This new community project wil make a positive impact in kids' lives and will help them take pride in the Quad Cities and themselves. We will be capturing history and showcasing the Quad Cities in a live musical performance that includes ballet, dance groups, show choirs, jugglers, clowns, gymnasts and many vocalists and muscians.

If you live in the Quad Cities or surrounding towns you can get involved from the ground up on this project. A new board of directors is being formed and adults are needed to oversee this project. If you are passionate about music, photography and videotaping, have skills in directing shows or choreography, or are passionate about retaining youth, please consider getting involved. If you are in charge of a performing arts group, please consider having your group select a song and be in the show.

The public is invited to stop in for more information at our next meeting scheduled for February 10th at the Davenport library from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m.

We believe that all kids should have the opportunity to be a part of this project. If you are passionate about helping at-risk kids, please contact us.

For more information, please call Kim Hatfield at 563-940-1679 or email kim.hatfield1@yahoo.com

BLOOMINGTON, Ill./EWORLDWIRE/Jan. 12, 2010 --- From a history of decades of dedication and service to country to an annual community outreach
effort during a week-long state tour, military veterans have long been served - and continue to be supported - by activities of the American Legion and community members.

The annual membership caravan offers a forum to share and update military service personnel about the issues that directly impact them, and to attract new members to the ranks to strengthen the backbone of the Legion's active base. This year's 2010 Annual American Legion Department of Illinois Membership Caravan takes to the state's highways and byways on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2010, and is scheduled for stops at 24 Legion Posts. Leading the way will be Army veteran, National Vice Commander James C. Morris, Illinois State Commander William Flanagan, Illinois Auxiliary President Julia Moore, along with State and local leaders.

The route on their week-long statewide tour will begin at Heyworth Legion Post on Wednesday, Jan. 20 at 6:00 p.m. Along the way, other Legion Posts on the program are:  - Morton - Fairview - Monmouth - Galva - Sterling - Lena - Sycamore - Huntley - Deerfield - Evanston - Elvin J. Carey-Chicago - Calumet City - Buckley  - Gibson City - Sullivan - Mt. Vernon - Carmi - Orient - Chester - Granit City - Pittsfield - Chatham - Lincoln  A complete and comprehensive schedule is available at ILLegion.org ('http://www.illegion.org').

Since its founding in 1919 and subsequent Congressional Charter, The American Legion organization has operated unlike any other, exerting a compelling
influence on national leaders on issues of global significance. Legion operations enhance the lives of military families struggling through wartime and economic sacrifices. Members serve the community by building homes for disabled veterans, raising money for scholarships, coaching baseball teams, adopting military units, fighting to protect and enhance veterans benefits, promoting wholesome youth activities and much more.

National Commander Clarence Hill affirmed his belief in the strength of the American Legion by saying, "It is indeed an honor to represent an organization of this caliber as National Commander for 2009-2010."  Hill stated, "The slogan we're moving with is simple to remember: T.H.E. (The Hardest Easy) Job Challenge. "The 'easy' part is explaining who we are and what we do, under the Legions' four pillars of service - Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children and Youth, and veterans will join our ranks." "The 'hardest' part is getting that message delivered, welcoming new members aboard and mentoring them to become leaders.

I invite everyone to join us in our annual family membership caravan at a post near you," added Hill. To learn more about how to get involved and support the activities of the American Legion, visit JoinTheLegion.org ('http://www.jointhelegion.org') or ILLegion.org('http://www.illegion.org').

Linda DeLessio, Bettendorf, IA, has joined the National MS Society North Central States Chapter Board of Trustees.  In order for the chapter to reach its lofty goals in fundraising and client services, it is crucial to have a group of talented, engaged board members to provide leadership and governance.  Linda's skills were identified as fitting these objectives.

Linda grew up in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan and moved to Madison, WI for medical school in 1986.  She completed her pediatric residency and began working as a pediatrician in a group practice in Madison until 1998 when she moved to Bettendorf, IA.  She is currently employed as a pediatrician on a part time basis for Genesis Health Group -Pediatrics in Bettendorf, Iowa.  Linda first became involved with the chapter by attending the Taste of Generosity.  She then joined the committee in 2007.  Linda has witnessed MS firsthand.  Her mother was diagnosed in 1982 and her sister-in-law was diagnosed 5 years ago.  She enjoys traveling, golfing and gardening as well as spending time with her husband, Steve, and their three children, Nick, Julianne, and Marie.

About the National Multiple Sclerosis Society

  • The National MS Society helps each person address the challenges of living with MS through our 50-state network of chapters.
  • The North Central States Chapter serves North Dakota, South Dakota and Iowa.
  • Through our home office and 50-state network of chapters, we fund more MS research, provide more services to people with MS, offer more professional education and further more advocacy efforts than any other MS organization in the world.
  • The Society is dedicated to achieving a world free of MS.  We are people who want to do something about MS now.  Join the movement at www.nationalmssociety.org.

About Multiple Sclerosis

  • Every hour in the United States, someone is newly diagnosed with MS, an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system.
  • Symptoms range from numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis.  The advancement, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot yet be predicted, but advances in research and treatment are moving us closer to a world free of MS.
  • Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with more than twice as many women as men being diagnosed with the disease.
  • MS affects more than 400,000 people in the U.S. and 2.5 million worldwide.
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Speak Out, the self-advocacy organization affiliated with The Arc of Rock Island County, announces plans to celebrate the founding of the group ten years ago.  The event will be held Friday, January 22, 2010, from 1-2:30 p.m. in the Speak Out Room at Arc Industries located at 610 37th Avenue in Rock Island.  The 10th Anniversary Party is free of charge and open to the public.

The celebration takes place the same week we honor the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., for his advancements in Civil Rights.  Members of Speak Out actively engage in educating the public on the personal needs and rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities; collaborating with state-wide organizations to create an even louder voice for choices; and advocating for expanded rights to our elected officials.  True to its motto, "Changing the words, changing minds," Speak Out hosted a rally during Freedom Quest 2009 and joined forces with other local agencies, traveling to Springfield to advocate for a change in human services programming.

Founded in 1952, The Arc of Rock Island County serves more than 300 individuals with developmental disabilities daily.  The mission of The Arc is living and working in partnership with the community to support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

The Bettendorf Discovery Shop in Cumberland Square invites you to join them Thursday, January 14th as they debut their cruise wear clothing and accessories. From swimsuits and beach shoes, to colorful and fun accessories for your home, we have something that will brighten your day. If you are planning a vacation, a cruise, or are just plain tired of your winter clothing, join us for a chance to purchase a wonderful fresh spring wardrobe.

The shop welcomes donations of men's, women's and children's clothing, accessories, jewelry, collectibles, and items for the home. Donations are accepted any time the shop is open and a tax receipt is always available.

The Discovery Shop is owned and operated by the American Cancer Society with the proceeds going for cancer research, education, patient services, and advocacy. The shop is an upscale resale shop selling gently used items all donated by the community. They are staffed with over 100 volunteers. All clothing is cleaned and ironed before it is sold. All dry cleaning is donated by Burke Dry Cleaners.

Regular shop hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 am to 5 pm, Thursday 10 am to 7 pm, and Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.

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GALENA, Ill. - It's hard to believe that eating this well is actually all for a good cause. On Feb. 5, Galena's finest - ranging from restaurateurs to winemakers to cheesecake bakers to caterers - will gather together at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa from 7-10 p.m. to "Treat your Taste Buds" for the Galena Art & Recreation Center.

Now in its 20th year, the ARC Taste of Galena has become a sought-after event that promises an evening of pleasure for your taste buds. Past years have presented delectable dishes such as: braised veal roast with apple ginger sauce, sliced duck with sour cherry chutney over molasses sweet potatoes, boeuf bourguignon, Crab Louis salad, Grecian pork tenderloin kabobs, Greek salad, spanakopita, candy bar cheesecake and locally produced wines. And there's sure to be chocolate...and lots of it.

Your taste buds won't be the only thing thanking you. Your feet will thank you, too, as they will be keeping rhythm to the catchy beat of the Rob Martin Quartet, a live jazz ensemble, who will perform throughout the evening.

For a complete and up-to-date listing of ARC Taste exhibitors and menus, click on the event's useful website: www.tasteofgalena.com. The site also provides attendees with a quick and convenient way to purchase Taste tickets online. Tickets will be held and distributed at the door the evening of the event. In addition to online sales, tickets may also be purchased at the Galena Art & Recreation Center, 413 S. Bench St., and the Galena Territory Owners' Club. Cost is $30 per person. Tickets are limited; advanced ticket purchase is highly recommended.

"We are excited to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Taste of Galena with Galena's finest establishments and appreciate their continued support. Every year I look forward to the diverse menu, and this year's event is guaranteed to please!'" said Sarah Petersen, the ARC's executive director. "There are many exciting things planned to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the event, including a special digital presentation of photos through the years, a silent auction and a 50/50 drawing. I recommend purchasing your tickets early as this event has sold out in the past."

The ARC Taste of Galena is a core fundraiser for the Galena Art & Recreation Center, a not-for-profit organization that provides programs for all ages. The funds raised at the ARC Taste are included in the ARC annual operating budget and will assist with the ongoing process of balancing the budget and achieving financial security.

For information about room availability, shopping, dining, attractions, events and more, please go to galena.org, the Web site of the Galena/Jo Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau, or call 877-464-2536 toll-free.

In 2009, the Galena Art & Recreation Center celebrated its 40th anniversary. Forty years strong...and still growing: visit www.galenaarc.org.

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