16 Mar 2009

Homeowners Can Save on Bills with Home and Duct Performance Test

By Crystal Oberholtzer
Hot, humid summer weather is quickly approaching. With energy rates increasing across the country, homeowners will see some of their highest energy bills ever. A home and duct performance test helps homeowners find real solutions to increase energy efficiency and lower heating and cooling bills.

Most homes are not nearly as energy efficient as they should be, leading to energy loss and higher than necessary heating or cooling bills. Up to $0.40 of every heating and cooling dollar spent is lost through poor construction, leaky ductwork and improperly sized or installed equipment according to the Department of Energy.

Professional testing of the home to find problems now can save homeowners substantial money on heating and cooling in the long run.

A home and duct performance test will pinpoint exact causes of energy loss, comfort and indoor air quality problems. A qualified comfort consultant performing the test will offer solutions to insure equipment runs efficiently and cost effectively. Many energy loss problems discovered during the checkup in the home can be simply and affordably solved by the homeowner.

"An HVAC contractor is like a doctor for your house," says Comfort Institute President Brendan Reid. "Without diagnostic testing, your doctor would just be cutting you open and poking around. There's a reason doctors don't do that anymore. This test lets us find the problems in a scientific manner so we can offer real solutions."

Homeowners who choose to have a home and duct performance test performed on their home should do research before hiring a contractor for the testing. A qualified contractor will provide the homeowner with a full list of problems and solutions to energy, comfort and indoor air quality problems found during the testing and will offer a money back guarantee if the homeowner does not see value in the information found during the testing.

For more information about whole house comfort checkup, visit www.comfortinstitute.org and click on "Whole House Comfort Check-up." Comfort Institute Member Contractors are fully trained on performing the testing. Certified Comfort Institute Member companies are listed on the Comfort Institute Web site under "locate a CI contractor."

Comfort Institute provides short educational videos explaining the home and duct performance test to its member contractors. Locate a Comfort Institute Member company to view the videos from that company's Web site.

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13 Mar 2009

Brunch And Style Show To Benefit Genesis Rehabilitation

By Craig Cooper
DAVENPORT, Iowa - March 13, 2009 -- The Bend of the River Quad Cities Pilot Club will host its annual Brunch and Style Show on Saturday, March 28, at the Radisson Hotel, Davenport to benefit the Genesis Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department.

Doors will open at 9:30 a.m. Cost is $25 per person. Rehabilitation staff will be among the models, and there will be door prizes.

Proceeds will go toward the purchase of the Invacare Top End Excelerator Handcycle for inpatients who have sustained a brain injury, multiple trauma, stroke, spinal cord injury or who have a neuro-degenerative disorder.

Funds raised also will help purchase Wii Fit, Wii Carnival Games, Interactive Mouse Switches, and Capability Switches to be used by patients served by the Genesis Outpatient Pediatric Rehabilitation Program and the Outpatient Brain Injury Day Treatment Program.

The handcycle and Wii games will help patients improve endurance, strength, balance, range of motion, and psychological well-being. The computer switches also will allow children with disabilities to operate computer games during therapy sessions.

For tickets, call (563) 445-5554, (563) 332-1760 or Jan King at (563) 421-1425.

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13 Mar 2009

"Extreme Makeover Home Edition" Family to Visit St. Ambrose

By Jane Kettering
DAVENPORT, Iowa–It took three years for St. Ambrose University Occupational Therapy alumna Angie DeLost to convince ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" to choose her client's family for a home makeover. On Friday, March 20, at 11 a.m., St. Ambrose will hold a "Lunch and Learn" featuring DeLost, along with eight-year-old client Jake Grys, who suffers from the genetic disorder Osteogenesis Imperfecta. The event, which is free and open to the public, will be held in the Rogalski Center, located at the corner of Ripley and Lombard Streets, one block west of Harrison Street. Reservations are recommended and those who attend are invited to bring a sack lunch.

Following a viewing of the "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" Grys family episode, DeLost will discuss her work with show producers and her involvement in the home's modifications. Grys, along with his mother, Jean, will share their experiences with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, often referred to as "brittle bone disease," as well as answer questions about the home makeover process.

For more information or to make a reservation, contact Rhonda Lane at 563/333-6277 or LaneRhondaL@sau.edu.

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13 Mar 2009

Beginning Genealogy Classes Offered

By Kathryn Davis
Genealogy Classes for ALL Ethnic Groups will be conducted at the German American Heritage Center on Thursday evenings from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. starting April 2 through May 7, 2009.

This is a Beginning Genealogy class covering topics such as Library Research, Record Keeping, Documentation, Court House Records, Census Records and others. Instructor: Scharlott Goettsch Blevins has taught genealogy classes for over 30 years. Past president of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, Iowa Genealogical Society and many other organizations locally and nationally, she has traveled throughout the country, England and Germany on extensive genealogical research trips.

Cost for the 6 week sessions is $50/person Non GAHC member - $45/person GAHC member. Deadline for reservations and payment is March 30, 2009.

To make reservations, call the German American Heritage Center at (563) 322-8844 or send reservations to German American Heritage Center, 712 West Second Street, Davenport, IA 52802. OR you can email reservations to director@gahc.org
The Center is open Tuesday - Sunday 1:00-4:00 p.m.

For further information please call (563) 322-8844

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12 Mar 2009

Knowledge at Noon sponsored by Eastern Iowa Community College District

By Bev Ricketts
Monday, March 16 @ Scott Community College, Belmont Campus
12-1:30 pm, $20 per person

Lunch catered by: Happy Joe's Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor

Regardless of how your current job may be affected by the downturn in the economy, now might be the best time to fuel up for a new start. You have skills which have served you well in the past, but now you may feel like you're headed into uncharted territory. Area community colleges and local job placement resources can help you find your way.

The topic for the Knowledge at Noon on March 16 hosted by the Eastern Iowa Community College District and Scott Community College will be "Strength Finders", a program that focuses on resources for building job skills, assessing career goals, and surviving a tough job economy. Presenters will be staff members from Scott Community College's Job Placement Office and Iowa at Work. Information will be provided on career training options, financial aid for college (YES, there is aid available!) as well as job search skills in a networked world, interviewing techniques, and other tips on preparing yourself for a changing job market.

The session will be held in the Student Life Center at Scott Community College, 500 Belmont Road in Bettendorf, Iowa. Please enter through Door #5 or Door #6. The Student Life Center is Room 2300 on the main floor.

Call 355-4753 or email bev.ricketts@bettendorfchamber.com for reservations.

12 Mar 2009

Iowa College Aid Brings Scholarship Opportunity to Davenport Area Middle School Students

By Heather Doe

GEAR UP Incentive Grants Help Raise Student College Aspiration and Preparation Levels in Iowa

Des Moines, IA., March 11, 2009 - More than 5,400 Iowa middle school students and their families have been given an opportunity to participate in a federal program that promotes student academic success.  The Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Program (GEAR UP) is a federal grant that promotes state and community partnerships to help low-income and minority middle and high school students succeed in planning, preparing and paying for college.  Students eligible to participate in the program will receive scholarships that can be used to pay education expenses at the college of their choice.  Iowa was one of seven states to be awarded a new state GEAR UP grant in 2008 and will receive $2.8 million annually for a total of six years.

GEAR UP Iowa, administered by the Iowa College Student Aid Commission (Iowa College Aid), will provide resources and services to 31 Iowa schools.  The 2008-2009 7th grade students in the Davenport School District, attending JB Young, Frank L. Smart, Williams, and Wood middle schools will receive year-round support in areas such as:

  • Early and ongoing academic planning, counseling, and assessment.
  • Tutoring and mentoring for academic improvement.
  • Information sessions on college admissions and financial aid.
  • Career exposure, job shadowing, and college field trips.
  • Outreach activities that encourage increased involvement for parents and families.
  • Increased access to after-school and support programs.
The program follows the students as they progress from 7th grade to 12th grade.  Upon graduation, each eligible student is guaranteed a portion of the $16.8 million reserved to award college scholarships.  "GEAR UP Iowa will provide life-changing opportunities for many Iowa middle school students," stated Karen Misjak, executive director of Iowa College Aid.  "This program offers scholarships to those most in need of assistance and at risk of not attending college.  GEAR UP Iowa provides the resources to help students succeed academically and allows them to focus and expand on their life goals."
GEAR UP Iowa relies on a network of service organizations, schools, colleges, and community members to assist in providing the components needed in building a strong GEAR UP program.  Iowa College Aid's GEAR UP representatives look forward to developing relationships with the 31 selected schools and their communities.  More information about the GEAR UP Iowa program is available at Iowa College Aid's website at www.iowacollegeaid.gov or by contacting a GEAR UP Iowa representative at 877-272-4456.
11 Mar 2009

Artist Studios and Galleries to be featured in 50 Miles of Art!

By Michael Gaines
Don't miss the 50 Miles of Art Studio Tour March 28 and 29, 2009. Stay the weekend and shop for unique and original works of art from artist and artisan studios, galleries, and specialty shops on Scenic Route 79 in Hannibal, Louisiana and Clarksville, Missouri. - For more information go to www.50MilesofArt.com

? 50 MILES OF ART

? STUDIO AND GALLERY TOUR

? March 28-29, 2009

What do you do along 50 Miles of Art and the gallery and studio tour in Hannibal, Louisiana, and Clarksville, Missouri? On March 28-29, spend the weekend in the area and visit over 40 artist and artisan galleries, studios, and specialty shops along a 50 mile stretch of scenic Route 79. Take a weekend trip and drive along the Mississippi River and see why artisans are inspired by the beautiful surroundings and choose to live and create in these historic river towns. The Studio and Gallery Tour is a great opportunity to hit the road for the weekend and take in 50 Miles of Art and all the area has to offer!

Artists and artisans participating in the gallery and studio tour are from the picturesque communities of Hannibal, Louisiana, and Clarksville, Missouri. Each community has its own special personality, talented artists and artisans, and tour offerings. For a list of participating galleries and studios, go to www.50milesofart.com and click on "Download a Studio Tour Brochure" to print out a complete listing of participants and their hours for this special weekend. There will be special events, demonstrations, and gallery receptions. For further information on the event, contact the Hannibal Arts Council at (573) 221-6545 or go directly to www.50milesofart.com.

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11 Mar 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 Wednesday, April 15, 2009 or must be postmarked by or on Wednesday, April 15, 2009.

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, community 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 has a current endowment of approximately $13 million.

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11 Mar 2009

YOUNKERS ENCOURAGES CUSTOMERS TO PERFORM A MILLION ACTS OF GOODWILL®

By Heidi Frank
Milwaukee, Wisc - (March 11, 2009) - Younkers is encouraging customers to participate in its million acts of Goodwill through the semi-annual Goodwill Sale. From March 11 to 24, customers who donate clean, gently-used clothing and home textiles at participating locations will receive 20% off coupons toward new spring merchandise, including apparel and cosmetics. One coupon is given per donated item. The donations will be sold at Goodwill Industries® retail stores, where the revenue funds job training programs and career services for people who need it most in local communities. The popular retail trade-in promotion is a successful collaboration between Younkers and Goodwill.

As a kick off to this spring's Goodwill Sale, Younkers is introducing a new, interactive website designed to track the customer's donations and spread the word about this incredible event. Customers can log on to www.millionactsofgoodwill.com to learn more about Goodwill Industries® mission, get tips for cleaning out their closets and read about Younkers' spring fashion trends. Every person who donates during the Goodwill Sale is contributing an "Act of Goodwill." The goal is to have one million people support the event. When the Goodwill Sale officially begins on March 11, customers may log on to www.millionactsofgoodwill.com and share what they donated. Site visitors will be rewarded for their participation with an additional coupon. A "Million Meter" will track the event's progress and with each step closer to the goal of one million, Younkers will make an additional contribution to Goodwill Industries.

The fall 2008 semi-annual Goodwill Sale generated nearly 3.5 million pounds of donated clothing and textiles. From the sale of these donated items, Goodwill has earned more than $13 million in revenues to support Goodwill's job training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, a lack of education or income as well as for those who are having a hard time finding employment.

"This semi-annual event affords a wonderful benefit to our customers. Our customers can donate their items to be re-sold for a great cause while receiving a substantial discount on our new spring fashions," says Bud Bergren, president and chief executive officer of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. "The Goodwill Sale exemplifies our commitment to the communities in which we operate."

"Donating and shopping during Younkers' Goodwill Sale is making an economic investment in your local communities," said Jim Gibbons, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries International. "Your donations to Goodwill will help strengthen communities by helping people find meaningful employment to support themselves and their families."

The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. operates 281 stores, which includes twelve furniture galleries, in 23 states in the Northeast, Midwest and upper Great Plains under the Bon-Ton, Bergner's, Boston Store, Carson Pirie Scott, Elder-Beerman, Herberger's and Younkers nameplates and, under the Parisian nameplate, stores in the Detroit, Michigan area. The stores offer a broad assortment of brand-name fashion apparel and accessories for women, men and children, as well as cosmetics and home furnishings.

Goodwill Industries International is a network of 184 community-based, independent member organizations in the United States, Canada, and 14 other countries. Goodwill Industries trains people for careers in fields such as financial services, computer programming, banking, and health care. To pay for its programs, Goodwill sells donated clothes and other household items in more than 2,200 retail stores, and online at www.shopgoodwill.com. To find your local Goodwill, use our online locator at www.goodwill.org or call (800) 664-6577.

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10 Mar 2009

LTC Michael Clarke to Be Public Works Director

By Administrator

(from City of Davenport Media Release)

March 6, 2009

Lieutenant Colonel Michael Clarke has accepted an offer of employment to be
Davenport Public Works Director at a starting salary of $117,000, City Administrator
Malin announced.  Mr. Clarke is expected to start work in July, following retirement
from twenty eight years of service to the nation in the Army.  

LTC Clarke is currently serving as Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District. He has served in Iraq and
Afghanistan, serving as Chief of Construction for Afghanistan and the surrounding
region.  LTC Clarke has a degree in Civil Engineering from Old Dominion, a Masters
Degree in Engineering Management from California State University and has
completed the program at the Army Command and General Staff College.   LTC
Clarke has experience as a Director of Public Works in Taegu, South Korea and Fort
Stewart, Savannah, Georgia.  He has significant, hands-on experience in preparing
for and responding to emergencies, including a wide variety of natural disasters. 

In February, a thirteen member interview panel interviewed five semi-finalists
including LTC Clarke from a field of 32 applicants in a highly competitive national
search.  

LTC Clarke spoke highly of the Davenport Public Works Department, noting
"Davenport is a nationally accredited department through the American Public Works
Association and is a recognized regional leader at the forefront of best practices."  He
added, "I have been all around the world I'm happy that I'll have the ability to stay
in the Quad Cities after I retire from the Army.  I'm looking forward to moving to
Davenport and starting a new chapter in my career in public service".   

City Administrator Malin thanked the members of the interview panel and all the
members of the Public Works Department, for exceptional work through the past few
months.  He specifically thanked Dennis Ryan for his outstanding continuing service
as Interim Public Works Director.     

Questions may be directed to City Administrator Malin at (563) 326-6139 or LTC
Clarke at (309) 794-5253.

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