21 Jan 2010

The veterans of the Sterling, IL area American Legion announce Caravan

By Mark Sides

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').

18 Jan 2010

Linda DeLessio named to National MS Society North Central States Chapter Board of Trustees

By Mandy Petersen

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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14 Jan 2010

Arc's Speak Out Announces 10th Anniversary Party

By Rick Martin

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.

11 Jan 2010

American Cancer Society's Discovery Shop in Bettendorf is planning their annual Cruise wear debut Thursday, January 14th

By Rick Martin

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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11 Jan 2010

ARC Taste of Galena celebrates 20 years

By Janelle Keeffer
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.
05 Jan 2010

Rock Island Moose Celebrate 100th Birthday

By Rock Island Moose

The Rock Island Moose Family Center will hold a 100 year Birthday Celebration on Saturday, January 16, 2010.  Festivities will be ongoing throughout the day.  Local city officials, along with Moose officials, will be recognized at 3 p.m.

The public is cordially invited to stop by the Family Center during the Birthday Celebration for a tour and to learn more about the Moose fraternity and the Women of the Moose.

The Loyal Order of Moose, also know as the Family Fraternity, is a fraternal and service organization founded in 1888.  The Rock Island Lodge was instituted January 18, 1910.  There are nearly 800,000 men in roughly 1,500 lodges in all 50 states plus Great Britian, Canada and Bermuda.

Along with other units of Moose International, the Loyal Order of Moose supports the operation of Mooseheart Child City and school, a one thousand acre community for children and teens located outside of Chicago; and Moosehaven, a 70 acre retirement village for its members near Jacksonville, Florida.  Additionally, Moose Lodges conduct approximately $50 million worth of community service (counting monetary donations and volunteer hours worked) annually.

Additionally, the Loyal Order of Moose conducts numerous sports and recreational programs in local lodges and Family Centers.

"We would really welcome seeing non-members come and join us at our celebration. We would enjoy the chance to show them our wonderful lodge and exactly what we have to offer them and their families," said Governor Ernie Weed.

Also, the Lodge is assembling a historical picture collection.  If any current or former Moose or Chapter members has any pictures they would llike to contribute, they may drop them off at the Lodge located at 4410 - 9th Street, Rock Island.  Birthday cards, either hand-made or purchased, will be greatly appreciated to help commemorate such a significant event.

For more information, please contact the Lodge at 309-793-1541.

07 Dec 2009

Royal Neighbors of America is changing one life at a time with its Nation of NeighborsSM Program

By Lynette Meincke

(ROCK ISLAND, IL) - Royal Neighbors of America is hosting a special presentation to deliver cash donations to area families.  The check presentations will take place at the Community Center, December 5, 1:00 p.m. in Durant, Iowa.

"It is as neighbors that we have the most direct and personal influence on each other's lives," said Cynthia Tidwell, President/CEO of Royal Neighbors of America.  "By using our insurance earnings to support these efforts, Royal Neighbors is changing one life at a time."

In the past two years, Royal Neighbors has given over $650,000 to more than 500 individuals or families in need across the country. It is a tangible expression of neighbor-helping-neighbor, the philosophy the organization was founded on. Hundreds of nominations have been received from Royal Neighbors members and its independent insurance agents.

Royal Neighbors of America is a non-profit fraternal life insurance organization dedicated to helping women and their families for close to 115 years. It insures lives, supports women, and serves communities by offering insurance and annuity products. Its members receive valuable benefits and can participate in a variety of local volunteer activities.

Headquartered in Rock Island, IL, Royal Neighbors serves nearly 250,000 members and is licensed to do business in 42 states and the District of Columbia.

For more information about Royal Neighbors of America, call (800) 627-4762, or visit www.royalneighbors.org.

END

04 Dec 2009

The Arc Puts Group Home Up For Adoption

By Maureen Dickinson

The Arc of Rock Island County is pleased to announce the expansion of residential services for individuals with developmental disabilities.  This month The Arc will add one new Rock Island group home to its options for community integrated living arrangements (CILAs).   For the past several months contractors have worked diligently towards the goal of having the eight residents situated in their new home by the holidays.  Area businesses, service clubs and organizations are offered the opportunity to "adopt" The Arc's new group home.

Executive Director Kyle Rick explains there is a history of the community's adoption of group homes.  Rick states, "Right now we have an active relationship between UnitedHealthcare employees and one of our Moline group homes.  They seem to know just what the individuals need, whether it's a home-cooked meal for Thanksgiving or a special occasion, cookouts, decorations for holidays, or birthday cards and cakes."  The rewards are

two-way.  The people adopting the group home become a second "family" by visiting the individuals, and the value of this friendship is priceless.  The loving gratitude the UnitedHealthcare employees receive in return warms the heart.

With the opening of a newly renovated group home there are many immediate opportunities to volunteer as well.  The Arc welcomes volunteers available during the day and willing to pull off wallpaper, prep for painting, paint, and move in furnishings.  The driving force is having the individuals celebrate Christmas 2009 in their new home.

For more information about adopting The Arc's new group home in Rock Island or volunteering for these final preparations, contact Stacey Cary, associate executive director of administrative services, at 309-786-6474 or carys@arcric.org.

Founded in 1952, The Arc of Rock Island County serves more than 300 individuals with developmental disabilities daily.  The Arc owns and operates intermediate care facilities and group homes in both Rock Island and Moline.  The mission of The Arc is living and working in partnership with the community to support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

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03 Dec 2009

MOLINE FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES DEADLINE FOR GRANTS APPLICATIONS

By Joy Boruff
A grants submission deadline has been announced by the Moline Community Foundation. Non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply if they serve the citizens of Moline and the surrounding region, including the Quad Cities.

All materials necessary to receive funds are due in The Moline Foundation offices by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, January 29, 2010 or must be postmarked by or on Friday, January 29, 2010.

Any non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization, including those who have never received Moline Foundation funding in the past, is welcome to apply.

For more information, please refer to The Moline Foundation's web site at www. molinefoundation.org

An application should consist of a written request stating the name and address of the organization, its mission, names and addresses of Board members, financial statement, balance sheet, and the specific purpose for which any money received would be used including a project budget.  The name, telephone number, and email of a contact person must also be included.  The requested materials should be mailed according to the above deadline.  Other important information about grant submission is available at The Moline Foundation's web site.

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, workforce development, the arts and other charitable organizations which benefit the citizens of Moline and the surrounding area, including the Quad Cities region in both Iowa and Illinois.  The Moline Foundation receives and administers charitable gifts and works with citizens to achieve their dreams to improve the community.

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30 Nov 2009

"Iowa's Own Pianist" Jim McDonough Kicks-Off Annual Holiday Concert Tour to Benefit Camp Courageous of Iowa

By Rick Martin
MONTICELLO, IA (November 27, 2009) ? Once again this year, Iowans can ring in the Christmas season with "Iowa's Own Pianist" Jim McDonough and his orchestra and singers. Tickets for his annual "Holiday Grande" concert tour for Camp Courageous of Iowa are on sale now.

The spectacular holiday stage production -- all-new for 2009 -- includes McDonough at the concert grand piano, his 15-piece orchestra, a cast of singers and dancers, elaborate sets and costumes and the true spirit of the season.

The tour will deliver the message of Christmas in a sincere, rich and meaningful production perfect for the entire family. "We've put together the grandest 'Holiday Grande' yet," McDonough says. "It's elegant, it's exciting, it's touching, and it benefits a wonderful organization."

For the fifth consecutive year, the tour will benefit Camp Courageous in Iowa, a year-round respite care and recreational facility for individuals of all ages with disabilities. The camp is run on donations, without formal sponsorships, without government assistance, and without any paid fund-raisers.  Tour stops include :

Des Moines - Saturday, December 5, at 2:30 p.m. at Hoyt Sherman Place. Tickets: $28 - $33. Charge by phone at (800) 745-3000, visit www.ticketmaster.com, or in person at the Hoyt Sherman Place Box Office.

Marion - Sunday, December 6, at 2:30 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. at Linn-Mar High School Auditorium. Tickets: $28 - $33. Charge by phone at (800) 375-7095, or email tickets@pianofavorites.com.

Dubuque - Saturday, December 12, at 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. at the Five Flags Theater. Tickets: $28 - $33. Charge by phone at (800) 745-3000, visit www.ticketmaster.com, or in person at the Five Flags Box Office.

Cedar Falls - Sunday, December 13, at 2:30 p.m. at the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center. Tickets: $28 - $33. Charge by phone at (800) 549-SHOW (7469), visit www.unitix.uni.edu, or in person at the Gallagher-Bluedorn Box Office.

Jim McDonough's 11 CDs - including his brand new album Rat Pack Remembered - are available at gift shops across the country and via his Web site, www.pianofavorites.com.

ABOUT JIM McDONOUGH
After stints as a high school band director, cruise ship entertainer and air-traffic controller, Jim McDonough began selling his distinctive brand of soothing piano music in gift shops in eastern Iowa. Today, his CDs are available in nearly 1,000 stores across the country and via his Web site, www.pianofavorites.com. Jim's independent record label, Jim McDonough Productions, Inc., has already sold more than 125,000 of his CDs.

The road to success, though, has been paved with detours. In eighth grade, an accident nearly ended his musical career. A falling piano crushed three fingers on his right hand - and nearly crushed his dreams in the process. Jim emerged from two hours of surgery with pins in his fingers and tiny fractures across his hand. But throughout more than a year of physical therapy, Jim kept playing - with a cast on his right hand - and concentrated on improving his performance with his left hand. "Playing the piano defined me," McDonough says. "It was my life, and I was determined to play again." He devoted nearly every spare moment to working to get back the dexterity in his right hand, and the rigorous rehearsing paid off. In ninth grade, instead of a car, Jim bought a Steinway grand piano to celebrate how far he'd come.

His debut CD Requests, released in 2002, features timeless solo piano music, including favorites such as My Heart Will Go On (from Titanic), Time to Say Goodbye, and All I Ask of You (from Phantom of the Opera). Jim's original holiday CD, Home for Christmas, is filled with classic Christmas favorites including O Holy Night, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Christmas Time is Here (from A Charlie Brown Christmas) and The Prayer. His collection of movie themes, Projections: Songs from the Silver Screen, features familiar music from films, including Theme from On Golden Pond, Brian's Song and Through The Eyes Of Love (from Ice Castles). An Ivory Christmas is a taste of Jim's live holiday show, and features a combination of solo piano pieces and holiday tunes with vocals and full orchestrations, including We Need a Little Christmas, My Favorite Things and Ave Maria. Music of the Night is a collection of sophisticated, relaxing and romantic evening-inspired melodies including Some Enchanted Evening, Moon River and Somewhere Out There. Simple Gifts features 14 songs of faith and inspiration, including On Eagle's Wings, You Raise Me Up and How Great Thou Art. With Love is filled with timeless, most-often-requested love songs, including Unchained Melody, Unforgettable, and Somewhere My Love. Homeward Bound features melodies designed to accompany us on the many stages of our journeys through life, including You'll Never Walk Alone, Climb Ev'ry Mountain and Danny Boy. New in 2008, Country Dreaming, features 16 classic country melodies, including Crazy, Always on My Mind and Tennessee Waltz. A follow-up to his original holiday release, A Christmas to Remember, is filled with seasonal favorites, including Mary Did You Know?, Silver Bells and Joy to the World. And his most recent release, Rat Pack Remembered, is filled with Jim's distinctive arrangements of the most beloved hits from the trio of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr.

For more information, visit Jim McDonough's web site at www.pianofavorites.com or call (800) 375-7095. For additional information about Camp Courageous go to www.campcourageous.org or call (319) 465-5916.

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