(DES MOINES) - The Connect Every Iowan initiative is drawing wide praise following this morning's announcement by Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds. The following are statements put forth by organizations representing thousands of Iowans across the state:

Iowa Telecommunications Association:

Dave Duncan, President of the Iowa Telecommunications Association (ITA), said "Governor Branstad's announcement today rings so close to the guiding principles our association has promoted over the past four years - that we need 'broadband for all Iowans.'

"Broadband connectivity is an essential service when you are looking to advance Iowa's economic growth opportunities," Duncan said.  "Whether you are a small business looking to connect to customers around the world, a farmer checking global markets, or a student doing homework, you cannot afford to be without high-speed broadband internet access."

Rural Iowa Independent Telephone Association:

The Rural Iowa Independent Telephone Association (RIITA) announced its support for Governor Terry Brandstad's initiative today, "Connect Every Iowan" and efforts to increase the access, adoption and use of broadband technology.

"Iowa has a unique position in that our state has the most Independent Telecommunication Companies (ITCs) in the country. Over 140 companies have been instrumental in deploying broadband and working with their communities relating to the adoption and use of this technology," noted Sheila Navis, RIITA Executive Director.

CenturyLink:

"CenturyLink appreciates the efforts of Governor Branstad to further strengthen Iowa's broadband climate, which will ultimately grow Iowa's economy and enhance educational opportunities. We look forward to working with all stakeholders and policymakers to increase broadband adoption and access."

Technology Association of Iowa:

"Access to larger bandwidth is essential to connect Iowans to each other and for businesses to connect to Iowa customers. TAI will engage in the process that Governor Branstad has established and will work with the legislature to put in place policies that make sense for Iowans."

 

Heartland Technology Alliance:

 

The following statement is attributable to Heartland Technology Alliance Executive Director John Stineman:

"The Heartland Technology Alliance is excited to learn of Governor Branstad's 'Connect Every Iowan' initiative.  Broadband connectivity, adoption and deployment can be a game changer for the Midwest.  Whether Iowa's metros or rural areas, broadband helps us compete with the world.  We are hopeful the STEM Advisory Council's Broadband Committee examines not only the issues of adoption and connectivity, but the regulatory environment Iowa ought to pursue in order to attract private sector investment in broadband deployment in all forms across the State.  The Heartland Technology Alliance looks forward to being an active participant in these important discussions and appreciates Governor Branstad and Lt. Governor Reynolds' leadership in this critical area."

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STEM Committee charged with developing legislative recommendations, strategic plan

 

(DES MOINES) - Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds today unveiled their new "Connect Every Iowan" initiative to increase the access, adoption, and use of broadband technology.

The governor and lt. governor have asked the existing STEM Advisory Council's Broadband Committee to develop legislative recommendations to encourage broadband build-out throughout Iowa, particularly in unserved or underserved areas.  The committee's first meeting will be Sept. 10, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., at the ICN Conference Room on the 2nd floor of the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

Its recommendations are expected to be delivered by December 1, 2013.

The committee has also been asked to develop a long-term strategic plan for broadband by January 1, 2015, and to identify and pursue any possible federal funding opportunities or public private partnerships.

"We want to make Iowa the most connected state in the Midwest," said Branstad.

Currently Iowa ranks 11th out of 12 Midwestern states on the TechNet State Broadband Index, behind neighboring states such as Nebraska, Minnesota, Missouri and Illinois. The index is compiled from three measures: The household adoption rate of broadband, network speeds of available broadband infrastructure, and the amount of jobs in information and communication technology industries that benefit from broadband technology.

"I'm confident Iowans all across the state will benefit from the initiative - most importantly, more broadband access means more jobs for Iowans," said Branstad.

According to a study conducted by the Brookings Institute, for every one percentage point increase in broadband technology penetration into a state, employment is projected to increase by 0.2 to 0.3 percent per year.

"We need to make sure rural Iowa has the tools to stay connected, because connectivity is the great equalizer," said Reynolds. "Connectivity will allow us to preserve rural Iowa, while keeping us competitive with other states for economic development projects. We believe every Iowan - from students, to small business owners, to rural health care providers, to public safety officers - can benefit from this initiative to increase the access, adoption, and use of broadband technology."

The STEM Advisory Council's Broadband Committee will be co-chaired by John Carver, Superintendent of Howard-Winneshiek Community School District, and Robert von Wolffradt, the State Chief Information Officer.  Administrative support and technical expertise will be provided by Amy Kuhlers of Connect Iowa, a non-profit organization which is working in partnership with the Iowa Economic Development Authority to ensure that all can experience the benefits of broadband.t

Members of the STEM Advisory Council's Broadband Committee:

Co-Chair John Carver, Superintendent, Howard-Winneshiek Community School District

Co-Chair Robert von Wolffradt, Chief Information Officer, State of Iowa

Amy Kuhlers, Program Manager, Connect Iowa

Robert Denson, President, Des Moines Area Community College

Dave Duncan, President, Iowa Telecommunication Association

Philip Groner, Iowa Communication Network

Karl Hehr, Director of Technology Services, Ames Community Schools District

Galen Howsare, Chief Financial Officer, Iowa Association of School Boards

Karen Randall, Keystone Area Education Association

Michael Sadler, Assistant VP for Public Policy & Government Relations

Larry Siegel, Iowa School Finance and Information System Services

Jeff Weld, Executive Director, Governor's STEM Advisory Council

Josh Byrnes, State Representative, District 14

 

For more information:

http://Governor.Iowa.Gov/Connect

(DES MOINES) - The governor's office today released a list of appointments to the Governor's STEM Advisory Council.  All appointments will take effect September 1, 2013.

Kacia Cain, Indianola

John Carver, Cresco

Jordan Cohen, Iowa City

Robert Denson, Ankeny

Ryan Drew, Burlington

Mary Beth Hockstedler, Iowa City

AnnElyse Howard, Clive

Jordan Lampe, Sausalito, Calif.

Valerie Newhouse, Emmetsburg

Robert "Kelly" Ortberg, Cedar Rapids

Mark Putnam, Pella

Macenzie Rubin, Ankeny

Johnathan Wickert, Ames

Gail Wortmann, Bloomfield

Isa Zimmerman, Boston, Mass.

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State Investment in Innovation and Cutting Edge Jobs will Fuel Economic Growth

CARBONDALE - Governor Pat Quinn today announced an investment of $1.5 million to build an ultra high speed broadband network in Southern Illinois. The partnership between Frontier North, Inc., the City of Carbondale, Southern Illinois University and Connect SI will use the funding to build a gigabit network that will serve residents, businesses and institutions in Southern Illinois. Today's announcement is part of Governor Quinn's commitment to drive economic growth and create jobs across Illinois.

"Ultra high-speed internet access is a key to success for the future of Illinois," Governor Quinn said. "In order to remain competitive in today's digital society, Illinois must have broadband infrastructure second to none."

The $1.5 million investment - supported by the Governor's Illinois Jobs Now! capital construction program - provides funding for Frontier to build a high-speed fiber optic network to Carbondale's businesses, schools, hospitals and neighborhoods. The gigabit broadband, up to 100 times faster than speeds currently available, will help recruit new business to the region and enable Southern Illinois University's scholars, innovators and entrepreneurs to connect globally. Capabilities for telemedicine and telehealth through the University's School of Medicine will also impact citizens in underserved areas in Southern Illinois and allow for faster transmission of medical records and vital information.

"The best part of the Governor's grant is that it isn't about fiber optics and lasers; it is about a world class community network built to drive jobs and new opportunities for  Carbondale and the region," Frontier Senior Vice President and General Manager Mike Flynn said. "Frontier Communications couldn't be more proud to be a part of this community effort as we work every day to provide advancing broadband services across all of Southern Illinois."

"Southern Illinois has a long history as a leader in broadband," Broadband Illinois Interim Executive Director Brad Housewright said. "Through the efforts of Connect SI, Frontier and stakeholders from business and industry, we're excited to build a public-private partnership around this initiative."

Governor Quinn was also joined today by top executives and employees from Clearwave Communications, a Harrisburg company that just completed another high-speed connectivity project in Southern Illinois. The project used $11.3 million in state funds, as well as federal and private dollars, to install 751 miles of fiber in 23 counties connecting 232 community anchor institutions.

Governor Quinn has invested more than $71 million in broadband infrastructure throughout the state as part of his Illinois Jobs Now! capital construction program. This investment has leveraged more than $214 million in additional funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Through these projects, more than 3,000 miles of fiber optic cable has been installed, with more to come.

Today's Carbondale announcement represents the fourth major Gigabit Communities Challenge broadband infrastructure project announced since Governor Quinn took office in 2009. Supported by the Governor's Illinois Jobs Now! capital construction program, the Illinois Gigabit Communities Challenge sought proposals from private and public organizations to encourage promising ultra high-speed broadband deployment projects throughout Illinois. Each project must connect at least 1,000 end users to Gigabit broadband speeds.

For more information, visit www.Gigabit.Illinois.Gov

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DES MOINES, IA (08/12/2013)(readMedia)-- FFA Agricultural Mechanics Technology projects were judged Friday at the 2013 Iowa State Fair. Youth from across the state were recognized for their outstanding exhibits.

Projects were judged on the basis of workmanship, design, usefulness, appearance and safety. Restored tractors were judged on appearance, mechanical work, safety and documentation. Oral presentations by the exhibitor were also considered in the judging of all projects.

Complete results below:

First Year Tractor Exhibitor

1) Cassidy Simmons, Guthrie Center

2) Logan Adair, Truro

3) Scott Evans, Iowa Falls

1958 and Prior

1) Jarad Taylor, New Virginia

2) Collin Fenneman, Clarksville

3) Jacob Miller, Dixon

1959 and Later

1) Matt Tekippe, Manchester

2) Meghan Miller, Dixon

3) Jacob Miller, Dixon

Group of 2 or More Tractor

1) Meghan Miller, Dixon

2) Mount Ayr FFA

3) Dalton Webster, Sigourney

Champion Restored Tractor: Matt Tekippe, Manchester

Restored Farm Equipment

1) Calvin Richardson, Tama

2) Kyle Huber, Wellman

3) Samantha Urmie, Long Grove

Computer Designed Project

1) Derek Anderson, Garner

2) Angela Delariva, Ellsworth

Metal Working/Welding - Small

1) Natalie Johnson, Murray

2) Kayla Kuhnle, Marengo

3) Trevor Stevenson, Wheatland

Metal Working/Welding - Medium

1) Marshal Wilz, Eddyville

2) Matthew Sturges, Rockwell

3) Zachary Neff, Fremont

Metal Working/Welding - Large

1) Bradley Ver Steegh, Oskaloosa

2) Bradley Ver Steegh, Oskaloosa

3) Ben Offenburger, Chariton

Woodworking - Indoor

1) Jami Wiesen, Shenandoah

2) Dylan Riedesel, DeWitt

3) Christian Jorgensen, Griswold

Woodworking - Outdoor

1) Brent Ver Steegh, Oskaloosa

2) Briana Ver Steegh, Oskaloosa

3) Cassidy Simmons, Guthrie Center

"Nothing Compares" to the 2013 Iowa State Fair, August 8-18. The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th and East University Avenue, just 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines, and are open 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. each day of the Fair. Exhibit hours may vary. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

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WEST DES MOINES, IOWA -August 5, 2013- Iowa Farm Bureau members are now eligible to save 10 percent on flexible, no-contract mobile phone plans through a new exclusive partnership with Iowa-based wireless provider, Ready Mobile.

Individual and family plans are offered to Farm Bureau members starting at $13.50 per month with no contracts for subscribers to sign and the ability to change plans at any time without penalty.

To kick off the new partnership, Ready Mobile representatives will be in Farm Bureau Park from 8 a.m. to  8 p.m. every day of the Iowa State Fair, which runs August 8 to 18.  Fairgoers can register to win a free smartphone, given away daily by Ready Mobile.  Fairgoers can also check out the selection of basic, keyboard, and smartphones on display and visit with Ready Mobile about their phone plans and exclusive discounts for Iowa Farm Bureau members.

The Hiawatha-based company provides wireless service on a national, multi-carrier network platform with coverage across the state.  Founded in 2004, Ready Wireless, LLC, was named amongst the Fastest Growing Businesses in Iowa in 2009, 2010, and 2011 by the Corridor Business Journal.  "Ready Mobile no contract service puts control in the hands of our customers.  They can manage their plans to meet changing lifestyles and needs," said Ready Mobile Executive Vice President and Co-founder Fred Haumesser.  "We're proud to partner with Iowa Farm Bureau and offer a variety of plan choices to meet the needs of Farm Bureau members who want nationwide coverage and are looking for a budget-friendly, lower-cost alternative to traditional wireless phone plans."

For more information, call Ready Mobile's exclusive toll-free number for Farm Bureau members at 855-327-2661 to learn more and place an order.  Download more information on the plans and phones at www.readymobile.com/ps/farmbureau.html.  Subscribers will need to provide the promotion code FB123NOW and Iowa Farm Bureau membership number to qualify for the exclusive savings.

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About Iowa Farm Bureau

The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is a grassroots, statewide organization dedicated to enhancing the People, Progress and Pride of Iowa.  More than 153,000 families in Iowa are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve farm and rural prosperity.  For more information about Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit the online media center at www.iowafarmbureau.com.

ROLLA, Mo. - College and university faculty members, students and staff wanting to learn more about using technology to support their research efforts and hobbies are encouraged to attend the third annual Research Technology Day on the Missouri University of Science and Technology campus.

Research Technology Day 2013 (RTD2013) begins with a reception and street party the evening of Monday, Sept. 9, followed by a full day of workshops, presentations and a vendor fair. A new addition to the conference this year is "challenge connection," during which researchers have five minutes to discuss the technological hurdles they must overcome in their research and to seek collaborators to help them overcome those challenges.

University of Missouri System President Timothy M. Wolfe will attend the opening reception and street party, and Dr. Henry C. "Hank" Foley, executive vice president for academic affairs at the UM System, will present the keynote address on Tuesday, Sept. 10.

All RTD2013 events will be held at the Havener Center on the Missouri S&T campus. The event is free to all participants, but registration is required. To register or submit a presentation proposal, visit the event website, rtd2013.mst.edu.

"We created Research Technology Day to provide a forum for researchers to showcase the technology they've used successfully in their research projects and to learn how others are using computing and other technologies in their research," says Mark Bookout, director of research support services in Missouri S&T's information technology division. "It's a great opportunity to network with other researchers, industry partners, students and faculty from S&T and other universities in the region."

A member of the Great Plains Network consortium of research universities in the Midwest, Missouri S&T welcomes attendance at the conference from researchers and students of other consortium members: the University of Arkansas, the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, the University of Missouri-Columbia and the University of Nebraska.

More information about RTD2013 is available online at rtd2013.mst.edu.

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN (07/23/2013)(readMedia)-- Allison Shanks of Bettendorf, IA, was one of 29 Butler University students who collaborated with a faculty mentor on original research during Butler Summer Institute (BSI) 2013. Working on campus from mid-May to mid-July, BSI Scholars examined issues in chemistry, biology, social sciences, music, and more, with the goal of producing work worthy of acceptance at a professional conference or in a professional publication.

Assistant Professor of Biology Nat Hauck mentored Shanks in research on "Chemicals in the jasmonic Acid Pathway's Affect on Systemic Acquired Resistance and Pathogen Related Genes in Moss."

Shanks received a $,2500 stipend, a housing allowance for campus accommodations, and free admission to Indianapolis cultural events from the Butler Center for High Achievement and Scholarly Engagement, which oversees BSI and other honors academic programs. BSI Scholars are selected in a competitive process; some 70 students applied for this year's program.

About Butler University

Challenging and enabling students to meet their personal and professional goals has guided Butler University since 1855. Today, Butler is a nationally recognized comprehensive university that blends the liberal arts with first-rate pre-professional programs. It seeks to prepare each graduate not simply to make a living but to make a life of purpose, in which personal flourishing is intertwined with the welfare of others. Butler is known for its vibrant campus, superior academics and dedicated faculty. The University enrolls more than 4,700 undergraduate and graduate students in six academic colleges: Arts, Business, Communication, Education, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Located just six miles from downtown Indianapolis, Butler's urban setting affords students internship opportunities that provide excellent graduate school and career preparation.

Researchers look for clues in mutant bacteria

NORTHFIELD, MN (07/18/2013)(readMedia)-- Petra Hahn of Bettendorf was recently featured in the St. Olaf news article, Researchers look for clues in mutant bacteria.

She is a graduate of Central High School and the daughter of Diane Rasmus and Michael Hahn.

Please click on the link above to view the entire story. A photo is attached.

St. Olaf students Heena Joo (seated) and Petra Hahn(right) are working with Assistant Professor of Biology Lisa Bowers (left) this summer to discover the purpose of a gene they deleted from a common type of bacteria. Using this simple bacteria as a stepping stone could be key in future application to other fields such as embryology and stem cell research.

July 11, 2013

RETIRED MAJOR GENERAL WATTNEM RETURNS FROM ENERGY TALKS IN DC

Iowa Flag Officer advocated for energy policies that will strengthen national security

MASON CITY, IOWA - Retired Army Major General Gary Wattnem today returned to Iowa after meeting with Senators Chuck Grassley and Tom Harkin about important energy policies that have stalled in Washington, DC.

Wattnam, a Mason City resident, was sent to DC by an organization called Vets4Energy, which is a group of distinguished retired veterans who push lawmakers to enact policies that would reduce America's dependency on foreign oil and increase national security.

Armed with decades of experience in national defense, Wattnam engaged both Senators in conversations related to the Keystone XL pipeline and the Renewable Fuel Standard.

Vets4Energy strongly supports the Keystone XL pipeline because it would contribute to U.S. energy independence by transporting desperately needed domestic and Canadian oil to American refineries.

The State Department has conducted four separate environmental impact assessments that repeatedly conclude that the pipeline would not have significant impacts on the environment. Despite the overwhelming public support for the pipeline, its final approval has been put on hold.

Wattnem's visit to Capitol Hill was the second year in a row that Vets4Energy flew in veterans from across the country to meet with members of Congress. Volunteers with Vets4Energy will continue to engage veterans in the 26 states it represents and ask that they too send the message to lawmakers that energy independence is key to national security.

About Ret. Major General Gary Wattnem

Wattnem served a tour of duty at the Eastern Area Military Traffic Management and Terminal Service in Brooklyn, N.Y. During 1970 and 1971 he served in Vietnam with the 71st Transportation Battalion at Long Binh, Republic of Vietnam.

 

He entered the Active Reserve in November of 1971. His assignments included Company Commander of the 404th Signal Company in Waterloo, Iowa, and Signal Officer of the 394th Ammo Battalion in Ames, Iowa.  He then was assigned to the 103rd COSCOM at Fort Des Moines where he served in a number of assignments including Battalion Commander.  He was then selected as Commander of the 56th Material Management Center at Fort Snelling, Minn.

In September of 1993, he became the Chief of Staff of the 19th Theater Army Area Command in Des Moines, Iowa. In August of 1996, he assumed command of the 3rd Corps Support Command in Des Moines. He was selected as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics at the Pentagon in 1999.  He retired in 2004.

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