15 Feb 2013

KennethWayne Thompson Named Director of the Davenport Public Library

By Davenport Library

The Davenport Public Library is proud to announce KennethWayne Thompson as its new director.   Mr. Thompson is from Georgia and is honored to be selected as the library's new director.  Mr. Thompson says, "I am excited about my role as Library Director of the Davenport Public Library and look forward to becoming actively involved in the community. The citizens of Davenport deserve the best library system possible and that will always be my focus. Leading such a great library system is a dream come true!" 

KennethWayne is expected to start as the library's director the beginning of April, until that time, Amy Groskopf, Associate Director for Resource Services will continue as interim director.

The library staff and board were very happy to have three strong candidates interview for the position in January and are eager to have KennethWayne as their new director.  The candidates were chosen by the search firm Keister & Associates, after the announcement of LaWanda Roudebush's retirement.  LaWanda's last day was January 31, 2013.

For more information you may contact Steve Hart, PR & Marketing Coordinator at the Davenport Public Library.

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15 Feb 2013

Iowa Wedding Crashers on Katie Couric Valentine's Day Show

By Jonathan Narcisse

Former Des Moines School Board Director and 2010 gubernatorial candidate Jonathan Narcisse and his wife, Kerin Narcisse will be guests on "The Katie Show's" annual "Unforgettable Weddings" show to air February 14th - Valentine's Day.

"The Katie Show" hosted by Katie Couric will feature a segment with three couples and their "unforgettable weddings" including a couple's wedding caught in a sandstorm, a couple's wedding ending with the entire wedding party falling into water after the pier crashed during photos, and the Narcisses who were married in a hot air balloon in San Diego prior to the balloon crashing.

After watching the videos and hearing from the newlyweds the all bride audience will select America's most unforgettable wedding.

Jonathan Narcisse served on the Des Moines School Board from 2007-2009 and has been a longtime education and government reform advocate. He finished third out of six candidates in the 2010 gubernatorial contest behind Governor Terry Branstad and Governor Chet Culver earning support in all 99 counties and nearly every Iowa precinct. Narcisse is also Editor-in-Chief of the Iowa Bystander Newspaper founded in 1894.

Kerin (Lang) Narcisse is an Iowa native and graduate of Humboldt High School. She is an ordained Presbyterian Pastor and educator. She has been a resident of San Diego, California and has served the last decade as a Chaplain with San Diego Hospice. She also served as a Pastor in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and will join Iowa Health System next month as a Hospice Chaplain.

It was always Kerin's dream to get married in a hot air balloon. 

After the friends reconnected late November the six week romance ended with the couple taking their vows in a hot air balloon overlooking the pacific ocean, the sun setting with clouds as their witness.

Following the ceremony the landing went bad with the balloon just missing traffic, buzzing homes and trees, hitting a tree, missing powerlines and the powergrid by about six feet prior to crashing to the earth where they bounced twice and were then dragged into a steel fence and giant thorn bushes. The balloon covered a house and the basket came to rest on a cliff.

Kerin suffered a concussion and the wedding party suffered minor injuries but the near death experience could have been much worse.

Mark Carlile, a resident who observed the crash and assisted the wedding party, alerted the local media. The couple was interviewed at their wedding dinner by local media and within hours video and story went viral being featured on every major news network in the U.S. and media throughout the world.

12 Feb 2013

Author to sign debut novel

By Nicholas Depew
DAVENPORT (February 11, 2013 ) ? Author Joan Mauch will be signing copies of her debut novel, HALIFAX (Whiskey Creek Press, 2013) from 11-2:00 on Saturday, March 2 at The Book Rack's Davenport store 4764 Elmore Ave. (across from Best Buy) and on the following Saturday, March 9 at the store's Moline location, 3937 41 Ave.
In her novel, author Joan Mauch spins the chilling tale of a woman who kills a man in self-defense only to discover she enjoyed it and now fears she may be turning into a serial killer. In a review of the book, Michael Romkey, author of I, VAMPIRE and nine other novels writes:
"Eleanor Hurley is a woman leading a life of quiet desperation when a single moment of violence changes everything. Eleanor kills a homicidal man to save a group of children. This lethal act releases Eleanor from her former existence, yet her freedom comes with a price. Eleanor is not repulsed by her capacity for violence, but rather exhilarated by her unsuspected power to take a life. Frightened at the darkness within, Eleanor flees, but cannot run away from herself, or from the troubles that lie ahead in Halifax. Author Joan Mauch delves into the psychology of the average person and discovers that what lies beneath the surface is something complex, disturbing and altogether unexpected."
Reader Diane W.of Spokane, Wash., calls the plot amazingly topical. "Violence, bullying, murder, psychopaths/sociopaths are in the headlines and in HALIFAX as well." Referring to the main character, Eleanor Hurley, she writes: "She is a most interesting character. ...not worldly-wise at all, a sort of lamb. I recognize parts of myself in Ellie. I think most people will."
Michael McCarty, author of over 30 books including the recently released CONVERSATIONS WITH KRESKIN says HALIFAX is "a sojourn of discovery spanning two countries from sunny Florida to eastern Canada. Joan Mauch begins her novel-writing career with such an impressive piece of work. Highly, highly recommended."
Chicago playwright Richard James Zieman writes, "What is keeping me turning the page is the writing. It comforts my senses like a boat floating in perfect rhythm on genteel waves. I am on page 24 and still want to read more because for me, the story has struck a chord. I love psychological thrillers. I like her (Eleanor Hurley), have empathy for her and already find myself rooting for her."
A native of Illinois, Joan has lived in Washington state, Oregon and Chicago over the course of her life, variously working as a teacher, public aid caseworker, head of a nonprofit housing development corporation, real estate sales agent, public relations executive and vice president of marketing for a national association. Nine years ago Ms. Mauch, a native of the Quad-Cities, relocated from Chicago to Davenport where she divides her time between proofreading at a local newspaper and novel writing. Joan holds a bachelor's degree in chemistry and a master's degree in urban studies.
HALIFAX may be purchased as an e-book at Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Whiskey Creek's website: whiskeycreekpress.com. Buy the paperback at The Book Rack or order it through Ms. Mauch's website at: www.joanmauch.com.
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07 Feb 2013

Author discusses second book in children's series

By Nicholas Depew

Carolyn Mitchell shares second book featuring furry friend Riley Chester-field Mouse

HICKMAN, Neb. - In her second imaginative tale featuring Riley Chester-field Mouse, "The Tale of the Pumpkin Seed Squad" (published by AuthorHouse), author Carolyn Mitchell has penned yet another adventure starring the tiny hero.

In "The Tale of the Pumpkin Seed Squad," Riley joins his friends in an exciting football game using a pumpkin seed as the ball. The comical twists in the game come vibrantly alive through clever rhyme and captivating illustrations by Brenda Timms.

"The Tale of the Pumpkin Seed Squad" is a delightful commentary on competition and sportsmanship that will surely charm even the least of its budding-athlete readers. It is a light-hearted tale that captures a fun and familiar topic in an easy-to-read rhyme, vividly bringing each character and storyline to life.

Mitchell explains that her book is important because she feels the "basic values of friendship and sportsmanship are important to emphasize in an increasingly busy and secular society."

About the Author and Illustrator

Following a successful nursing career, Carolyn Mitchell now enthusiastically pursues her lifelong interest in writing and poetic expression. Through this series of engaging rhyming tales, she aims to foster a continuing excitement for reading in children of all ages. Mitchell lives on a farm near Hickman, Neb., with her husband, Daryl. Together they've raised three daughters and have six grandchildren.

Illustrator Brenda Timms is a gifted and successful artist who expresses her talents through multiple mediums. Equally at ease with oils and acrylics in her paintings, she has also created many amazing sculptures on both small and life-sized scales. After rearing a daughter and son in her native Nebraska countryside, Timms now continues her artistic endeavors in Georgia.

For the latest, follow @authorhouse on Twitter.

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06 Feb 2013

News release announcing the publication of HALAFAX, a new novel

By Joan Mauch
DAVENPORT (February 5, 2013 ) ? In her debut novel, HALIFAX (Whiskey Creek Press)  author Joan Mauch spins the chilling tale of a woman who kills a man in self-defense only to discover she enjoyed it and now fears she may be turning into a serial killer. In a review of the book, Michael Romkey, author of I, VAMPIRE and nine other novels writes:
"Eleanor Hurley is a woman leading a life of quiet desperation when a single moment of violence changes everything. Eleanor kills a homicidal man to save a group of children. This lethal act releases Eleanor from her former existence, yet her freedom comes with a price. Eleanor is not repulsed by her capacity for violence, but rather exhilarated by her unsuspected power to take a life. Frightened at the darkness within, Eleanor flees, but cannot run away from herself, or from the troubles that lie ahead in Halifax. Author Joan Mauch delves into the psychology of the average person and discovers that what lies beneath the surface is something complex, disturbing and altogether unexpected."
Former librarian Diane Willett of Spokane, Wash., calls the plot amazingly topical. "Violence, bullying, murder, psychopaths/sociopaths are in the headlines and in HALIFAX as well." Referring to the main character, Eleanor Hurley, she writes: "She is a most interesting character. ...not worldly-wise at all, a sort of lamb. I recognize parts of myself in Ellie. I think most people will."
Michael McCarty the author of over 30 books including the recently released CONVERSATIONS WITH KRESKIN says HALIFAX is "a sojourn of discovery spanning two countries from sunny Florida to eastern Canada. Joan Mauch begins her novel-writing career with such an impressive piece of work. Highly, highly recommended."
Chicago playwright Richard James Zieman writes, "What is keeping me turning the page is the writing. It comforts my senses like a boat floating in perfect rhythm on genteel waves. I am on page 24 and still want to read more because for me, the story has struck a chord. I love psychological thrillers. I like her (Eleanor Hurley), have empathy for her and already find myself rooting for her."
A native of Illinois, Joan has lived in Washington state, Oregon and Chicago over the course of her life, variously working as a teacher, public aid caseworker, head of a nonprofit housing development corporation, real estate sales agent, public relations executive and vice president of marketing for a national association. Nine years ago Ms. Mauch a native of the Quad-Cities, relocated from Chicago to Davenport where she divides her time between proofreading at The Dispatch and The Rock Island Argus newspapers and novel writing. Joan holds a bachelor's degree in chemistry and a master's degree in urban studies.
Joan will be signing copies of HALIFAX from 11-2:00 on Saturday, March 2 at The Book Rack's Davenport store at 4764 Elmore Ave. (across from Best Buy) and on the following Saturday, March 9 at the store's Moline location, 3937 41 Ave.
HALIFAX may be purchased as an e-book at Amazon, Barnes & Nobel or Whiskey Creek's website: whiskeycreekpress.com. Buy the paperback at The Book Rack or order it through Ms. Mauch's website at: www.joanmauch.com.
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30 Jan 2013

Quad Cities Author Katie Ganshert At Upcoming Local Events to Celebrate Her Second Novel

By Nicholas Depew

Meet local author Katie Ganshert at a Quad Cities upcoming local book signing event, celebrating her second novel Wishing on Willows (Waterbrook Press, March 19, 2013) that continues the story in her debut novel Wildflowers from Winter.

The story of Robin Price as she deals with a three-year old son, a struggling café, and fading memories of her late husband, where Ganshert explores if second chances at life and love always involve surrender?

Meet Ganshert at one, or both, book signing events!

 

Saturday, March 23, 2013

1:00-3:00 PM

Books-A-Million

4000 East 53rd St

Davenport, Iowa 52807

Phone: 563.355.0705

 

Friday, April 5, 2013

6:30-8:00 PM

Dunn Brothers,

787 Middle Rd

Bettendorf, IA 52722

Phone: 563.345.6099

 

Although fiction, the real-life topics addressed by Ganshert provides readers thought provoking situations such as single-parenting, second chances and surrendering personal plans for God's plans.

Through Ganshert's skillful writing, readers are able explore their own life choices and concerns as they journey with the characters through their own situations.

26 Jan 2013

'Government Control of News' Reveals U.S. Censorship Threats

By Rick Martin

In his book, "Government Control of News: A Constitutional Challenge," former NBC-TV legal counsel Corydon B. Dunham chronicles the government's censorship of broadcast news. He warns of a pending proposal that could renew television and radio news censorship and increase official control of local news content.

A new Localism, Balance and Diversity Doctrine would authorize the FCC to revise local news to meet government administration views, Dunham says. Since the FCC is now transferring the broadcast spectrum to the internet, it could potentially control internet local news as well.

"Government Control," which includes pages of carefully cited references, began as a study at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars at the Smithsonian Institute. Dunham did extensive research of records and witnesses to document the effects of the Fairness Doctrineand other television news censorship.

"The government justified the doctrine as a way to investigate and ensure stations aired opposing viewpoints on issues," he says. "But if a complaint was made about a view that had been broadcast, the FCC could order that the view be changed or other views presented."

Failure to comply could result in no license renewal.

In 1987, the FCC revoked the doctrine after the agency and courts found that it deterred news coverage of important issues, imposed censorship, chilled speech and prevented criticism of the administration.

But in 2008, the FCC released a proposed Localism Doctrine to force local TV news to satisfy government's views on localism, balance and diversity. "It has many of the same characteristics of the old Fairness Doctrine," Dunham says.

The new rule would have three presidentially-appointed federal commissioners authorized to change news reports and impose penalties, and an official local board for each station that could override the news judgment of local journalists. These boards would recommend loss of broadcast license for violations.

A special 2011 FCC report concluded the new doctrine would violate the public interest, but it remains pending.

About Corydon B. Dunham

Corydon B. Dunham is a Harvard Law School graduate. His "Government Control of News" study was started at the Smithsonian Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and expanded and developed for the Corydon B. Dunham Fellowship for the First Amendment at Harvard Law School. As an NBC executive from 1965 to 1990, Dunham oversaw legal and government matters and Broadcast Standards. "Government Control of News: A Constitutional Challenge" is available on Amazon.com.

24 Jan 2013

"POOR KIDS" DOCUMENTARY SCREENING AND DISCUSSION AT WIU-QC

By Tami Seitz

MOLINE, IL -- A screening of the PBS documentary, "Poor Kids" will be held from 5-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 5 in Rooms 103 and 104 at the Western Illinois University-Quad Cities Riverfront Campus.

Produced by Jezza Neumann and Lauren Mucciolo, the documentary tells the story of child poverty in America through the eyes of children, including some from the QC region.

In this documentary, "Frontline" follows several of the more than 13 million children in poverty for a glimpse at what life is like for a child in need. There is the near-constant hunger, the stress that comes from watching a parent struggle, and oftentimes, days and weeks spent living in a shelter or bouncing from motel to motel. A post-film discussion will be led byTammy Werner of the WIU-QC sociology department.

While the screening is open free to the public, participants are asked to bring a nonperishable item for the River Bend Food Bank. The screening is sponsored by WIU-Quad Cities, the WIU-QC Communication Student Society (CSS), WQPT and the River Bend Food Bank of the Quad Cities.

For more information, visit pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/poor-kids.

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21 Jan 2013

You Will Find Joy

By Sam Newton
Davenport, Iowa - January 2013

You Will Find Joy, written by Nancy Newton, has been published by Inspiring Voices. The Greatest Book every written! It has something for everyone; humor, pathos, romance, treachery, history, tragedy, feats of daring do. The Bible is undeniably the widest read and published book in the world. But really, something for everyone?

Many years ago I began reading "The Upper Room" as a daily devotional. I soon found numerous Bible passages spoke to me, like a primer or a guide. For example, in Psalms 24:12-14 David asks 'Do you want long life and happiness? Then keep from speaking evil and do good; strive for peace with all your heart'. I began categorizing passages like this, so when someone said 'I just don't see how the Bible applies to my life' the gauntlet was unknowingly thrown down and I picked it up resolutely. Thus You Will Find Joy came to life. And a unique life it is. Not a dogmatic tome, more a self-help manual, a way anyone can open up their lives.

Joy is unique because of its categorized biblical treatment. It is organized so whatever your situation you can easily find a Bible verse to help you.

As one reader observed: Nancy Newton's book is a delightful way to spend time with many special passages of the Bible. It can be used as a devotional guide or a topical guide. Using her knowledge of the Bible, Nancy has spent many hours in reflective thought and created a way to help people gain insight for their journey. - Reverend Anne Lippincott, Senior Pastor, St. John's United Methodist Church, Davenport, IA

My aim in putting together Joy is to spread the word our lives can be filled with joy, no matter what life brings.

You Will Find Joy is available in soft cover for $12.00 and as an ebook for $3.99.

About the Author - Nancy Newton is a retired Government employee who lives in Davenport, IA with her greyhounds. She is passionate about her faith, and protecting animals and the environment.

Events: Book Signing at Moline Book Rack, 3937 41st Ave Dr, Moline, Il, 12-2

Contact Nancy Newton for further information. Email: sam_newton@q.com, phone 563-322-7456

Part of the proceeds from sale of the book will benefit disaster relief in the US.

Available from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, BAM, the Book Rack and other fine bookstores. Published through Inspiring Voices, a division of "Guideposts" magazine.
18 Jan 2013

New Picture Book is the Fourth in a Delightful Series for Children

By Marketing Services

Anna and Andy Hummingbird are back for more fun adventures in author Linda P. Young's latest tale

LAS VEGAS - (Release Date TBD) - Young readers, especially fans of a lovable pair of hummingbirds, have something to look forward to as author Linda P. Young brings Anna and Andy Hummingbird back in the fourth installment of her engaging series of picture books. The Adventures of Anna and Andy Hummingbird: Book 4 Stories 14,15,16,17 and 18 lets readers in the birds' fun new escapades.

In this book, The Nice Lady teaches Anna and Andy about bees and what they do. The hummingbirds also experience fear when they witness men cutting off the branches of their trees with a saw. They wonder if they are going to lose their home. The next adventures take Anna and Andy a little farther away from home and introduce them to new friends. They also get to experience for the first time, how frightening and dangerous it is to be in a storm.

Featuring vibrantly colored illustrations and a delightful plot, The Adventures of Anna and Andy Hummingbird: Book 4 Stories 14,15,16,17 and 18 will make a wonderful addition to any child's personal library. Parents can bond with their young ones as they follow the exciting adventures of Anna and Andy Hummingbird.

For more information on this book, interested parties may log on to www.Xlibris.com.

About the Author

Linda P. Young was born in Iowa City, Iowa and spent most of her life in the Midwest. She moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, twenty years ago, where she met her husband, Jerry. She owns a sign business and stays very busy with it. Her husband has worked in the woodworking industry most of his life. She wrote these books out of the enjoyment they would get watching the Hummingbirds on their back patio.

 

The Adventures of Anna and Andy Hummingbird * by Linda P. Young

Anna and Andy meet the Grandchildren Book 4 Stories 14,15,16,17 and 18

Publication Date: 10/24/2012

Picture Book; $21.99; 38 pages; 978-1-4797-2211-2

Picture Book Hardcover; $31.99; 38 pages; 978-1-4797-2212-9

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