Volume 4, Issue 4 | November/December/January 2014-15
A PUBLICATION OF RIVER ACTION, INC. www.riveraction.org
Connecting people to the river
Get Outside This Winter
More Inside: : : River Action Updates : : Mississippi River Conference : : Urban Watershed Restoration : : River Action Web Map : : Sunday in the Park Renovation : : eddy Calendar
Non Profit Org. US Postage PAID Montezuma, IA Permit No. 30
PUBLISHER’S LET TER
Design to Connect
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KATHY WINE, Publisher / Executive Director BETH CLARK, Managing Editor, Milepost Ventures, Inc. JEFF VanECHAUTE/pi design, inc., Design EILEEN SIPES, Calendar Editor Contributing Writers JESSICA FLONDRO, River Action Staff TIM GILLMAN, River Action Staff MICHAEL GOODYEAR, River Action Staff JIM KEENAN CURTIS ROSEMAN KATHY WINE, River Action Staff Contributing Photographers/Photographs TIM GILMAN BRIAN TUGANA EILEEN SIPES JESSICA FLONDRO JEFF VanECHAUTE STOCK: 123RF.COM, INGIMAGE.COM © eddy Magazine and River Action, Inc., all rights reserved, 2014-15. Reproduction in any form, in whole or in part, without express, written permission, is prohibited. The views expressed herein, whether expressed as fact, fiction, opinion, advice or otherwise are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the ownership or management of this magazine. This magazine is sold with the understanding that neither it, nor River Action, Inc., its owners or managers, are engaged in rendering legal, accounting, tax, medical, technical, or any other advice, professional or otherwise. The publication of any advertisement does not reflect the endorsement of any products or services by the ownership or management of this magazine unless it is specifically stated in such advertisement and there is written approval for such endorsement. Those submitting manuscripts, photographs, artwork or other material to eddy Magazine for consideration should not send originals. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and other submitted materials must be accompanied by a self addressed, postage paid envelope in return of materials is requested. Return of materials is not guaranteed. eddy Magazine is published quarterly by River Action, Inc., 822 E. River Drive, Davenport, IA 52803 and is direct mailed to approximately 6,000 area homes and businesses. eddy Magazine Published by River Action, Inc. 822 E. River Drive, Davenport, IA 52803 563-322-2969 www.riveraction.org To Advertise: Contact Beth Clark 309-269-3455 or contact Deb Girard at debgirard@hotmail.com. For rates, ad dimensions and deadline information email BethC@milepostventures.com To Subscribe or become a member of River Action: call 563-322-2969 or visit www.riveraction.org
n 1984, David Clark, Toronto Harborfront, told us, unlike some cities that have all riverfront features in one waterside development, “the Quad Cities is a string of pearls”, and we have used that metaphor at planning meetings; every city doesn’t need the same thing; each city can have gems on its riverfront like a string of pearls. Kathy Wine Time allows you to remember and reflect. We always want to be evolving and searching for the next level of quality at River Action. In 2014 we toast 30 years of planning, development, and culture. Since the pearl signifies a 30th anniversary, let’s continue with the metaphor. Walkers and bikers can appreciate the string the pearls along the 60 miles of riverfront trails that we have today. The same can be said for the Channel Cat (River Action launched it in 1995 to allow for river hopping) that threads together four riverfront docks on the Mississippi and things to do at each. In thirty years we have had significant floods, so River Action has addressed with communities, designers, and government programmers how we can recover and plan for the future. Floodplain management has led to Upper Mississippi River Conferences, and this year, the ten state meeting, our 7th, will offer again education credits for certified floodplain managers. We keep moving the bar in managing floods. Creating a sense of place became a goal. In 1997, ten RiverWay Art projects took the imagination and creativity of as many artists and hundreds of volunteers who INSIDE THIS ISSUE tackled design details, landscape treatments, 4 River Action Updates 4 FLOATZILLA 2014 unusual materials, and an understanding of — by Tim Gillman our river heritage — its culture, industry, and 4 TAMING OF THE SLOUGH 2014 natural resources. Special places are pearls. — by Tim Gillman Lots of planning and hard work go into 4 TIM CHAMBERS JOINS RIVER ACTION 5 EDDY AWARD NOMINATIONS creating memorable festivals and events in 5 GOLF CART TOUR 2014 an out of the water. Ride the River, Floatzilla, — by Michael Goodyear Taming of the Slough and RiverWay Golf 6 2015 RIVER ACTION EVENTS Cart Tours are River Action’s contributions, 7 PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP but many, many more , all in the name of 8 MISSISSIPPI RIVER CONFERENCE — by Kathy Wine “public happiness” contribute to the necklace. 10 URBAN WATERSHED RESTORATION Fireworks, clean-ups, concerts, barbecues, — by Jessica Flondro & Tim Chambers runs—what a way to celebrate. 10 YOUTH ACTION IN THE QCA Thirty years ago, gas was 90 cents, and 11 END OF NIGHT, BOOK REVIEW the popular songs were “YMCA” and “I Will — Jim Keenan Survive”. In that first year, the founders were 11 ENVIRONMENTAL BOOK CLUB DATES asked what we wanted to see; we always 12 Sustainability: Re-Use responded, “The river”. Views have opened — by Michael Goodyear up — buildings now face the river, some have 13 River Action WebMap — by Kathy Wine been demolished, new ones have a view. But one has remained closed that I think of every 14 Sunday in the Park Restoration — by Kathy Wine time when crossing rivers. Build bridges with 15 Get Outside This Winter railings (Centennial Bridge is an example so — by Tim Gillman there is a view of the river. Too many times 16 eddy Calendar: concrete barricades block a view of the river.) November, December, January — by Eileen Sipes In 2014, we continue to evolve and look for opportunities; look at what is in store Our Mission: for the future, and include your thoughts at River Action strives to foster the environmental, MindMixer.com. And dream big. economic, and cultural vitality of the Mississippi River and its riverfront in the Quad City region.
Cover Photo Jeff VanEchaute | pi design, inc. November/December/January 2014-15
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RIVER AC TION UPDATES
Floatzilla 2014 — by Tim Gillman
WVIK River Stories
http://wvik.org/programs/riverwaystories
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ain and thunder-storms were the prediction for August 16th, the day of Floatzilla 2014. Despite the forecast, 1300 paddlers took to the Mississippi River for a day of fun. Participants enjoyed a pleasant paddle with sunny skies in the morning. Aside from a few clouds, it never rained, and storms stayed clear. While we didn’t reach the Guinness World Record, 959 boats linked together for the annual group photo. The Sylvan Island portage route was reopened for the first time since the closing of the island’s only public bridge. With the help of countless volunteers (all reaching the island by paddling), we were able to clear tall weeds and other obstacles from the portage route and help paddlers out of the water and up inclines. Floatzilla’s award-winning safety crew was out on the water in full force - with members from the US Coast Guard; Coast Guard Auxiliary; Illinois and Iowa Departments of Natural Resources; Davenport, Moline, and Arsenal Fire Departments; Rock Island County Sheriff; and the Big River Dive Team. Mancomm, Inc., a consistent Floatzilla sponsor, has printed a limited run of 500 posters of this year’s group photo. Posters are available for pickup at the River Action office (822 E River Drive, Davenport, Iowa) for $5. If you would like a poster shipped to you, call 563-322-2969 to order.
Taming of the Slough 2014 — by Tim Gillman
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or those who find the average road-race or 5K a bit boring, Taming of the Slough provides a unique and adventurous experience. Instead of a traditional triathlon, Taming of the Slough takes racers through a paddling leg on the Mississippi River, off-road mountain biking through Illiniwek Forest Preserve, and a mixed paved/unpaved trail run. The 9th annual triathlon was held in Hampton and East Moline on September 13th. The first wave of racers paddled off the start line into a reversed boat course traveling clockwise around Campbells Island. Organizers chose to reverse the course the night before the race. Water on the Mississippi was 4 feet higher than the previous year, and reversing the course eliminated some possibly impassable sections of rough water. The running course was also reversed, with racers finishing through McNeal’s Reserve, a private nature reserve with trails through a floodplain forest. Many racers crossed the finish line with smiles and cheers. They didn’t simply finish the race, they tamed the slough!
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Tim Chambers Joins River Action as Program Director
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e would like to welcome Tim Chambers to the River Action team. On September 22 he joined the staff as Program Director. Not only is Tim new to River Action, but is also relatively new to the Quad Cities. Shortly after finishing her PhD, Tim’s wife Chadia accepted a teaching position at Augustana College and in July of 2012, together with their son Ismael, they packed up their household and made the long journey from New York City to establish a new home in Rock Island. While in New York City Tim worked for close to a decade with the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation as the deputy director of the Greenbelt Native Plant Center a 13 acre greenhouse, nursery, and seed bank complex. During his tenure with the NYC Parks, Tim has collected seed for and produced millions of plants for the restoration of habitats ranging from coastal marshes to upland forests and just about everything in between. Since moving to the Quad Cities, Tim has worked to further develop the east coast based, Mid-Atlantic Regional Seed Bank in partnership with the national native seed bank program, Seeds of Success, and with Living, Lands, and Waters to establish their Million Trees Program nursery in Davenport. Holding degrees in both Biology and Ethnobotany, the study of relationships between plants and people, Tim is an enthusiastic conservationist interested in exploring the interface between plants and people and people and their environment and how this might be used to conserve our most valuable natural resources and build more resilient communities.
RIVER AC TION UPDATES
eddy Award Nominations
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orking at River Action for 30 years has introduced us to a lot of courageous, innovative and determined people. The Eddy award is built around themes long familiar with River Action and eddy Magazine readers. It is all part of the same passion; see a need, fill the need. Do you know someone (individual, organization, company, school, or government) who has done outstanding riverfront activity in the field of art, be it performance, the written word, or the fine arts? Or developed a beautiful design in the field of renovation, new buildings, or livability? It can be an innovation in the field of educational programming or curriculum, or revitalization of river commerce, business, and/or industry. In the areas of river activity, it might be recreation or relaxation. Or, your nominee might excel in stewardship or environmental enhancement of the river. In 2015, the 16th Annual Eddy Awards will honor inspiration and persistence by recognizing those moving against the current, as in an eddy, to get things done on the Mississippi River. Nominations are being accepted at riveraction.org until January 26, 2015; announcement of winners will be a Fish and Fire, River Action's Earth Day celebration, April 24, 2015.
Scenic Journeys along the River — by Michael Goodyear
This year the 15th Annual Senior Citizen Riverfront Golf Cart Tour was held September 4th. In addition to the standard five tours in Davenport and Bettendorf, Arsenal Island, Rock Island and Moline, East Moline and Hampton, and Rapids City through Cordova, we unveiled a new tour in honor of the 15th anniversary of the event. It began at Credit Island and traveled to Nahant Marsh and Carp Lake. Speakers included city officials, members of the Corps of Engineers, historians, local citizens, and even the Village President of Cordova, Dean Moyer. Another important addition this year was celebrating the bicentennial of the Battle of Credit Island, which began exactly 200 years before the tours, on September 4th, 1814. A brief description of the battle and its consequences was presented. Over 130 carts transported over 650 participants across the Quad Cities’ riverfronts, and 150 of these participants were on for the first time. Thanks to all volunteers, and we hope to see all next year!
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Wildlife Photography Workshop — by Brian Tugana
(photos: Jeff VanEchaute)
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n Saturday, March 7th, a group of talented photographers will offer tips about diverse photographic opportunities that abound in this place we call home. The workshop, co-sponsored by River Action and Western Illinois University Quad City, will be held in the new Moline campus of the university and will run from 9 am till 2 pm. Watch the River Action website for details. www.riveraction.org
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RIVER AC TION UPDATES
2014 MISSISSIPPI RIVER CONFERENCE
Above, left to right: Reggie McLeod, Big River Magazine; Jessica Ludy, ARCADIS; Dean Klinkenberg, Mississippi Valley Traveler; Robert Sinkler, The Nature Conservancy; Patrick Seeb, Saint Paul River Front Corporation.
It’s all about making — Kathy Wine
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ore than 155 attendees heard that to create a more resilient river from the Headwaters to the Gulf, we need to make the connection between: · our actions and what happens in the Gulf. · our watersheds and the river. · our wild and adventurous natures and the river.
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· counties and states for solving problems. · farmers and watershed planners. · inspiring professors and passionate students. · planners and the latest in technology. · floodplains and the river.
Keynoter Matt Rota, Gulf Restoration Network, reported that the Dead Zone in 2014 stretching from Mississippi River Delta to Texas is 5,000 square miles. It fluctuates from year to year depending on hurricanes in the South and Midwest droughts such as the 2012 low water levels in the Mississippi. But the consistent
RIVER AC TION UPDATES
Above, left to right: Ryan Stockwell, Natural Wildlife Federation; Jeff Hastings, Trout Unlimited; Jim Moseley, Agree; Woody Woodruff, Illinois Stewardship Alliance; Staci Williams, American Rivers.
connections Dead Zone – caused by pollution – flowing from farms, oil drilling disasters, and the effects of fewer wetlands makes the water in the Gulf oxygen poor. His website, www.healthygulf.org, an observer pointed out, could read “Heal Thy Gulf”, which Matt and the audience liked even better!
A warm fall day allowed field trips on the river, both a paddling tour of Sylvan Slough and a tour of the main stem in Pool 15, that covered such themes as evolving geomorphology and hydrology in the “rapids section”, the river as a focus of historical settlement patterns and events, the lock and dam system, river navigation both commercial and recreational, working waterfronts, water quality and monitoring, flood control from levees to buyouts, riverfront housing, recreation sites, open spaces, mussels, eagles, and the Mississippi management of resources. A guided tour of the Exelon Fish Hatchery explained how a former spray canal was converted in 1984 into a game fish rearing facility which is active today. A workshop on writing compelling Mississippi River messages tailored to specific audiences concentrated on hearing each attendee’s challenge and then working on solving the challenge with the group assembled. Fifteen students participated in the Poster Presentations in the Conference Hall and were praised by the admirers from the conference. Of note were the excellent research represented and broad range of work dealing with the Mississippi. Among the participants were 14 Mayors representing the following river cities or towns: Natchez, Davenport, Sauk Rapids, Muscatine, LaCrosse, Guttenberg, Dayton, Riverdale, Rock Island, Winona, Sauget, Moline, East Moline, Many thanks to those who sponsored! They were: The McKnight Foundation, The Walton Family Foundation, Western Illinois University Quad Cities, Sierra Club, The Nature Conservancy, Exelon Generation, University of Illinois Extension, American Rivers, Shive Hattery, Augustana College, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Izaak Walton League, and US Corps of Engineers.
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RIVER AC TION UPDATES
Restoration in an Urban Watershed — Jessica Flondro and Tim Chambers
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n Monday, September 29th, River Action with partners, Augustana College Upper Mississippi Center and Black Hawk College, joined with Living Lands and Waters to host an Invasive Species Removal Event at Green Valley Nature Preserve and Black Hawk College in Moline, IL. As part of River Action’s Urban Watershed Restoration project, this event initiated a $220,000 restoration effort, made possible with funds from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Alcoa Foundation, Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, Moline Foundation, Black Hawk College, the Mississippi Valley Sportsmen, and in-kind contributions from the USFWS Rock Island Field office and the City of Moline. Restoration activities will include native plantings, a stream re-route, wetland creation, prescribed burns,
and trail improvements at both Green Valley and Black Hawk College. Seventy-five volunteers including students and faculty from Augustana College, Black Hawk College, and Western Illinois University, ALCOA employees, QC master gardeners, members of the Mississippi Valley Sportsmen, River Action Staff, and more came together to make this event a success. Using loppers and hand saws, volunteers removed invasive Honeysuckle, Buckthorn, and Tree of Heaven; no easy task considering the size of the shrubs entangled with other vegetation. A work day for most, one ALCOA volunteer took time out of his day to join the event because he felt that this type of outdoor work was fun and expressed his eagerness to participate in future events. Excited about these
ALCOA Volunteer Matthew Black removing Honeysuckle at Green Valley. (photo credit: Jessica Flondro)
restoration efforts, others voiced their desire to be part of the project as it moves forward. Volunteer events like this provide a necessary service to ensure best management of urban natural resources, but equally important, they engage the community which promotes environmental stewardship and awareness of vital urban green spaces. This event made a huge impact at both sites, but more work remains to be done. Stay tuned for events coming this fall and spring 2015.
Where to Start: Youth Action in the Quad Cities
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fter volunteering for River Action in 2013 and 2014, Gabi Lenger, a student at Moline High School began to talk to her friends about the programs and events she was involved with; several thought they were ‘neat’. So after the school’s Key Club dissolved, Gabi formed the first ever River Action Youth Group. She is currently working to enlist a teacher to mentor the group and start meeting twice a month. Armed with a list of 14 possible volunteer opportunities at River Action, including the QC Explorer program and ecological restoration work at Green Valley Nature Preserve in Moline, she will begin to recruit. Young people have a natural curiosity for the world around them, their environment and community and are both motivated and inspired to engage in their future
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through community and environmental action. The biggest obstacle they face is Where to Start? Gabi’s experience has encouraged and moved River Action to increase efforts to provide the direction and opportunities needed to empower our youth to become active environmental stewards and create lasting change in the community. We are currently developing programming to create opportunities to further critical thinking, leadership, decision making in environmental protection and stewardship, provide a forum to voice student’s environmental concerns and advocacy, connect youth groups with volunteer opportunities in the community, and funding for student organized community focused Earth Day projects. With the right tools and direction, our youth can take charge of their future and start to change the world. “The most rewarding part", said Michael Goodyear, River Action Intern 2013-14, "Was not the experience or education, but seeing the difference these organizations can create in the community and the world. Through working with these groups, you become a part of the change and help to improve the world a little bit at a time. I am grateful for River Action…taking a chance on me and giving students like me the experience to learn, help, and succeed.”
“ It is easy for us to spread the word at school that anyone can join. We will probably start with at least 15 interested students” – Gabi Lenger
RIVER AC TION UPDATES
A 2014 Book Review – by Jim Keenan
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here are some who remember the days before the locks and dams were built, when the Mississippi was wild and free. Similarly, there are some who remember the inky darkness of night, before we lit up every building, parking lot, street, sidewalk, home, and farmstead, when seeing the Milky Way was a common experience, yet never failed to thrill in its natural beauty. But memories of the inky dark sky are fading, just as memories of the wild, natural River are fading. The difference is that we can save the inky dark sky – and the Milky Way – for our children and theirs; because they, too, have the right to be awed by the magic of the night. But, according to Paul Bogard, in The End of Night, "... if we fail to act now ... we will take that right from future generations without their ever knowing what they have missed." • So let's agree that unnecessary exterior lighting is light pollution. • Let's spread the news that emerging research shows that light pollution, like other forms of pollution, is having fatal effects on plants and animals, including humans. • Let's debunk the notion that security lighting impacts security; there is no statistical evidence that suggests that security lighting reduces crime. • Let's encourage people to use exterior lighting ONLY in specific areas and ONLY when those areas need to be lit -- not up into the sky -- and not at 2:00 AM on every building, parking lot, street, sidewalk, home, and farmstead. • And let's learn to love the night as a time of life-sustaining renewal, as a time of wonder, and as a part of life that we do not have the right to take from our children and theirs.
River Action’s 2015 Environmental Book Club 2015 Meeting Dates January – Anthill, by Edward Wilson February – The Big Year, by Mark Obmascik March – Dirt: The Erosion of Civilizations, by David R Montgomery April – The Forest Unseen: A Year’s Watch in Nature, by David George Haskell May – Garbology: Our Dirty Love Affair With Trash, by Edward Humes June – Heirloom: Notes From An Accidental Tomato Farmer, by Tim Stark July – One Summer: America, 1927, by Bill Bryson August – Seeds of Hope: Wisdom and Wonder from the World of Plants, by Jane Goodall September – The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History, by Elizabeth Kolbert October – The Dirty Life: On Farming, Food, and Love, by Kristen Kimball November – The Long Emergency, by James Kunstler
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Re-use eddy F E AT U R E
Advice from the Catfish
— By Michael Goodyear
Even the smallest action can influence your community and the world for the better. Using the three Rs of sustainability, reduce, reuse, and recycle – this month we are focusing on reuse. Here are some easy tips for being more “green” in your day-to-day life.
1. Give away or sell unwanted items. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. This increases use and decreases the buildup of trash. Garage or yard sales can increase use of items packed away in your attic and really make someone’s day. A donation can really help out a new family, a person in need, or just someone looking for a good deal. Donation is always better than going to the landfill. 2. Reuse office supplies. Paper clips, rubber bands, and brochures are just a few examples that can be reused in the office or at home. Before you throw away something think about whether you can use it again. 3. Reuse the back side of paper. Printing on a single side of a piece of paper is a waste of half of that paper even if it looks better on documents and letters. When you are done with that paper use it as scratch paper for notes or reminders which are helpful and green.
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4. Pack lunch boxes in reusable containers. You can put sandwiches and chips in a plastic container rather than waste plastic Ziploc bags every time you take lunch to work or school. It is an easy change that will save you money on bags and cut down on trash. 5. Share magazines, newspapers, and books. This will cut down the amount of publications as well as the paper that is used to make them. How many times will you read that issue of People or new J.K. Rowling book anyway? Increase usage, not waste of paper.
6. Reuse packing materials. When you get a package in the mail you can save the bubble wrap, peanuts, and box to send something to a friend or to help with moving. 7. Check secondhand sources before buying new items like furniture or books. You can often find the same or a similar item in good condition at a great price. What a deal! 8. Repair broken items instead of throwing away and getting something new. Sewing a new button onto a coat or re-screwing the leg onto a table will save you a lot of money and might not even take that much work. 9. Bring reusable bags when shopping. Totes are reliable, environmental, and come in a variety of neat designs for only a few dollars. Plus save us from hundreds of plastic bags flying through the community, ending up in the river, or forever settling into landfills.
eddy F E AT U R E
River Action’s New Webmap Promotes Regional Planning — by Kathy Wine
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o you have an idea for a great place to grab a cool drink and bite to eat while enjoying Quad City architecture and pageantry of boats along the Mississippi? Or do you want to know the nearest place to launch your kayak? Or do you know a wildlife refuge along a span the river? All of this and much more is just a click away on our new interactive RiverWay Opportunities web map at riveraction.org and Mindmixer.com. Designed to help planners and the general public to discover opportunities for places to go, things to do, and interesting information about the river and river land uses, the MindMixer uses a fun interactive map and icons. The map was developed by the Lakota Group, a planning and urban design group in Chicago, for use at the Creative Collaborations Conference last September. They took the RiverWay Framework plan and transformed it into a stronger, more effective, and allencompassing map identifying zoning, water depth, festival attendance, and housing for the Quad City riverfront. The digital map is a tool that is adaptable across platforms including PC’s, smart phones, and tablets. The project is over a year in the making and their talented team continues to tweak the site to make it easy to navigate and enjoy. Friends will be refining and adding new points of interest and events to the map going forward. Through the Opportunities Map we want to showcase all that the river has, but also invite people to consider ways to improve it through a diversity of habitats,
activities, programming and businesses that the river could support. It is simple to get this going, yet it is strong enough to learn the strength of a concept. Click on the parcel or site to see what is there. This digital map and process builds a better community by involving people in things they care about. You can discover great ideas or post a challenge and let the community react and help find solutions. Community planners can gather valuable feedback by utilizing polls and surveys to gauge community interest and sentiment. Through measuring the Impact we gain valuable insights and can analyze important data. It’s working well around the country; more than 400 organizations use MindMixer for their online engagement efforts. Cities are better when citizens are involved. Empowering citizens to become contributors and creating a twoway dialogue elicits the best ideas and the best solutions. Getting far-reaching citizen input on important projects is often one of the biggest challenges consultants face. We can drive public participation by inviting the conversation to happen online. River Action believes there are good, informed ideas out there, but many don’t make it to the surface or are drowned out by the volume of usual voices. This digital map leverages the power of the Internet and social media. MindMixer helps River Action and the Quad Cities’ urban planners to connect with community members who might not otherwise get involved.
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eddy F E AT U R E
Sunday in the Park Renovation — Kathy Wine
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Crawford Company: Terry Cahill and Brady Dingeldein after applying the fiberglass patches.
Jean Downey at work on one of the La Grande Jatte sculptures.
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n order to renovate three of the sculptures this summer, some essential repair was done by Thom Gleich, sculptor of the wooden pieces. Crawford Company volunteered to assist River Action with the repair of sculptures. Originally carved from wood, the ten sculptures are now wrapped in fiberglass, and painted to replicate the figures seen in Seurat's painting. Due to flooding conditions the sculptures require occasional repair. Crawford Company used fiberglass patches to repair the damaged areas. Pictured below are two sculptures repaired by Crawford this year. Jean Downey, Davenport, retired art teacher, sculpted and painted, Meghan Quinn, Art Department, Augustana College, painted two of the sculptures. Inspired by George Seurat's painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte, the paint scheme and art installation were the inspiration of Ted McEliney, RiverWay Public art contributor, Ben Sunday who designed the installation on Credit Island in 1998.
First Bridge Railroad Berm
Tree removal October 20, at site of First Bridge railroad berm, 712 Federal Street, Davenport.
Winter Ac tion!
Get Outside this winter! — by Tim Gillman
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idwesterners tend to share a love/hate relationship with winter. Sometimes we enjoy the snow, the holidays, and the festivities, but often enough we find ourselves left bitter from the cold. We retreat inside to our warm homes and wait impatiently for spring’s arrival. It’s easy to forget that people from a variety of cultures have spent much longer times outside in even harsher climates. It doesn’t make sense to just ‘wait it out’ and spend a good portion of the year anticipating spring. Some of the best ways to get outside during the winter are to get active. There have always been the old standby winter sports such as downhill skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. Those with a sense for adventure may take up snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or coldweather hiking. Whichever activity you choose, picking a new winter hobby will be sure to entice you outside during your free time. If you work inside all day, it might be hard to convince yourself to get outside during the winter. Some intrepid workers have made the choice to commute by bike - despite the snow and sleet. A relatively recent phenomenon in the Midwest has been the introduction of
the “fatbike”. They have become a fairly common sight around town - thanks to the QC area’s abundance of off-road trails. These beefed-up mountain bikes are a godsend for riding on snow and gliding over obstacles such as bogs, mud, and sand. They make cold-weather bike commuting much more accessible. Skis, bikes, and snowshoes are fun, but they aren’t necessary to fend off the winter blues. A simple outdoor walk can do a lot to brighten a gloomy winter day. Avoid the snow piles and obstacles along the sidewalks, and hike through the woods. Better yet, do it with a group of friends. A recent study done by researchers at the University of Michigan found major links between social nature walks and reduced stress and improved mood. If you’re unsure where to go on a hike, visit QCWildPlaces.com for a list of natural areas within an hour’s drive of the Quad Cities. Go for a long walk with friends and top it off with some coffee, tea, or hot chocolate! While you’re on a nature walk, keep your ears open for different bird songs. Brent Langley of QC Audubon says that while many migratory birds fly south of the Quad
Cities during the winter, others flee the cold temperatures and snow cover to our north. Some of these birds, such as snow buntings, white-winged crossbills, and red-breasted nuthatches can’t be found in our area during the warmer months. Bald eagles can be observed up close as they congregate in huge numbers near open water below the Mississippi River dams. For an excellent day in the field with expert birders, join a team from the Quad City Audubon Society on one of their Christmas Bird Counts in December and early January. Check out QuadCityAudubon.org for dates and more information. Regardless of the activity, a little fresh air can go a long way to boost your mood this winter. So bundle up, and get outside!
A recent study done by researchers at the University of Michigan found major links between social nature walks and reduced stress and improved mood.
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eddy C ALENDAR
eddy Calendar November
Tour of the Historic Clock Tower building
Saturday, November 1, 10-11:30am A tour of the historic clock tower building will be offered from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. These tours begin at the Mississippi River Visitor Center on Arsenal Island, Rock Island, IL. The tour includes climbing 12 flights of stairs at a moderate pace, so good walking shoes are recommended. Please call 309-794-5338 for more information or to make reservations.
Mississippi River Distilling Company Food and Spirit Tastings First Friday of every month, 5:30-8pm, Downtown Le Claire, IA On the first Friday of every month, we'll host an open house social hour. Many of the shops stay open late and the area bars and restaurants gear up for crowds. Don't miss it on the first Friday of the month, 12 months a year. Visit www.visitleclaire.com for more information.
Toddler Tales
Second Tuesday of every month, 10-11am & 2-3 pm, Nahant Marsh Education Center, 563-323-5196 We invite you and your child to come explore nature at Nahant Marsh. The second Tuesday of each month will include a nature-themed story, a craft, and an outdoor adventure. www.nahantmarsh.org
LeClaire Trivia Night
November 15, doors open at 6:30pm, LeClaire Civic Center, LeClaire, IA Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with trivia starting at 7 p.m. Participants may bring beer, wine, snacks and soda. Water and snacks will also be for sale. Up to eight people per table, $10 per person with a $50 table minimum. Everyone will be entered into a drawing for door prizes. To reserve a table or for more information, call Vicky at 563-639-4621 or email kettlepopper@gmail. com. Don't have enough for a full table? Come anyway and we can put you on a table that needs people! You don't need to be a genius to come and have fun!
Quad City Audubon Society Field Trip
Saturday, November 15, 7:30am, Brothers Restaurant parking lot, Rapids City, IL, 309-799-7192 Thompson Causeway. Duration: half day plus. Quadcityaudubon.org
Holiday and The Classics Cruise
Friday, November 21, 12noon-4pm, Celebration River Cruises, 2501 River Dr, Moline, IL, 309-764-1952 Get ready for some Holiday Cheer with a family oriented Christmas show presented by Ray and Jane Kumor. Join them for this fabulous combination of Christmas Spirit, music and dance, complete with their favorite Christmas songs. This will be a cruise to remember as you sing and dance along to many songs, plus some appearances by some very special people from the past. Your 4 hour cruise will begin with our homemade sticky rolls with assorted fresh fruits and our freshly prepared buffet serving your Holiday favorites. Reservations are required.
Renew Moline Gala Dinner
Wednesday, November 5, 6-9pm, Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center, 101 18th Street, Moline, IL Renew Moline's 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner is on Wednesday, November 5, 2014, at 6:00 p.m., at Stoney Creek Inn, Moline, Illinois. Cost for the dinner is $80.00 per person. For more information or to make a reservation please call (309) 762-9190 or email schevalier@renewmoline.com. RSVP by Monday, October 27, 2014. Please visit our website for more information www.renewmoline.com
Holiday Pops featuring Cirque De La Symphonie, Benjamin Klemme, conductor
Quad City Audubon Society Field Trip
Sunday, November 2, 8am, Lock & Dam 14 parking lot near Le Claire, IA, 309-799-7192 Smith’s Island. Duration: approximately 3 hours, with optional lunch stop to compile birds and activities. Quadcityaudubon.org for more information.
Breakfast with Birds
Fridays, November 7, December 5, 2014, January 2, 2015 8-9am, Nahant Marsh Ed Center, 563-323-5196 Join us for an informative breakfast about our feathered friends. Each session will cover a group of birds from dabbling ducks to raptors to songbirds. Depending on weather and time, there may be a short hike to our bird blind. The trail to the bird blind is ADA accessible. $7 for non-members, $5 for members (includes presentation & Continental breakfast, coffee, and juice). Please register online, namantmarsh.org, or by calling 563-323-5196.
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How to Feed Your Winter Birds
Saturday, November 8, 9:30-11:30am, Black Hawk State Historic Site, 1510 46th Ave, Rock Island, IL, Join naturalist Bob Motz who will help you identify birds common to our winter feeders and show the types of foods that attract a variety of winter birds. Binoculars will be provided. The event will be held at Singing Bird Center, accessed by turning north from Blackhawk Rd./Rte. 5 on to 15th St. Free. This event is sponsored by Citizens to Preserve Black Hawk Park Foundation. 309-788-0177 for more information.
Friday, November 21st, Saturday, November 22nd, 2:30pm & 8:00pm, Adler Theater, Davenport, IA Back by popular demand, Cirque de Symphonie returns for this year's Holiday pops. The Holiday pops returns to the Adler Theatre this year three performances, including a matinee performance perfect for the whole family. Cirque is exciting adaptation
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eddy C A L E N D A R Friends of Nahant Meeting of the artistic performances widely seen in theaters everywhere. Artist include aerial flyers, acrobats, contortionists, dancers, and more. These artist include worldrecord holders, international competition winners, and some of the most original talent seen anywhere. With return engagements from the First Presbyterian Church Sanctuary Choir and the Quad City Symphony Youth Choir, this year’s Holiday Pops promises to be the most incredible event of the season.
Quad City Arts Festival of Trees
November 21-30, RiverCenter, Davenport, IA Usher in the season at the area’s most popular holiday event. Festival of Trees has raised over $4 million in support of local arts over a 26 year period. Featuring many attractions including original holiday décor designed by local designers and available for purchase, continual dance and musical performances, holiday Helium Balloon Parade, holiday gift shop, children’s activity center, Gingerbread Village, raffle prizes and more! For information, visit www.quadcityarts. com/festoftrees.asp or call 563-324-3378.
Quad City Arts Festival of Trees: Holiday Parade
Saturday, November 22, 10:15am, 130 West 2nd Street, Davenport, IA, 563-322-1706 Experience the largest helium-balloon parade in the Midwest! Live marching bands, balloons towering over 3 stories tall, clowns, floats and more. Come and enjoy the holiday festivities during this annual parade. NEW TIME - 10:15 a.m. Afterwards, visit the RiverCenter in downtown Davenport along the parade route and enjoy Quad City Arts Festival of Trees. The Festival of Trees features beautifully decorated Christmas trees, live entertainment, silent auctions, and a fun-filled North Pole kids area.
The last Wednesday of each month, 6pm Are you looking to get more involved at Nahant Marsh? If you would like to donate your time and energy, we will gladly welcome you! There is always the need for help in projects that FNM participate in to maintain the Marsh, and to teach others about its unique environment. Please join the Friends of Nahant Marsh at their monthly meetings (at Nahant) on the last Wednesday of the month at 6pm. Call Nahant Marsh for more information, 563-323-5196.
Pioneer Village Christmas Walk
Sunday, November 30, 12-4pm, Walnut Grove Pioneer Village, north of Scott County Park, Long Grove, IA Santa will be in the General Store, Cookies & Hot drinks for sale in the Soda Fountain, Music in the church, crafts and games. Free admission with a food bank donation. Call 563-328-3283 for more information.
December
Quad City Audubon Society Field Trip
Friday, December 5, Parking lot east of Captain’s Table in Moline, IL, 309-799-7192 Mississippi River ducks, eagles, and gulls! Duration: 2 hours. Quadcityaudubon.org for more information.
Christmas at Augustana
Friday, December 5, 8pm, Saturday, December 6, 4pm, Centennial Hall, 3703 7th Ave, Rock Island, IL Christmas at Augustana has thrilled, inspired and touched audiences in nearly sold-out performances over the past five years. Three hundred student musicians share their talents in what has become a highlight of the Augustana and Quad City holiday season. Featuring performances by the Augustana Brass Ensemble, Augustana Symphony Orchestra, Augustana Choir, Cantilena Augustana, Jenny Lind Vocal Ensemble and the Wennerberg Men's Chorus, this moving holiday concert is not to be missed! Augustana.edu
River Action's Environmental Book Club
Tuesday, November 25, 7pm, River Action office, 822 E River Dr, Davenport, IA, 563-322-2969 Discuss What’s Gotten Into Us? Staying Healthy in a Toxic World, by McKay Jenkins. River Action is dedicated to fostering the environmental, economic, & cultural vitality of the Mississippi River and its riverfront. The book discussions are free and open to the public.
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Christmas in LeClaire
December 5-7, Downtown Le Claire, IA Christmas in LeClaire is always a popular tradition among visitors and LeClaire residents. For more information on LeClaire visit www.visitleclaire.com.
Christmas in the Village
Friday & Saturday, December 5 & 6, 6-9pm, Village of East Davenport, IA Enjoy family time with Santa Claus, Scrooge, living windows, carolers and musicians throughout the Village of East Davenport. There will be horse drawn wagon rides on Saturday and live music in various shops. Live nativity – Friday and Saturday nights. “Winter Sparkle” fireworks will be on Saturday at 9pm. In-store specials throughout the weekend. www.villageofeastdavenport.com.
Winter in Bloom
Sunday, December 7, 12-4pm, Hauberg Civic Center, 1300 24th St, Rock Island, IL, 309-732-7666 See the beautiful, historic Hauberg Mansion come alive with holiday cheer at our 47th annual Winter in Bloom open house. Free refreshments, live music, children's crafts, a scavenger hunt through the many rooms (for prizes!) and our one‑of‑a‑kind Poinsettia Tree make this a unique experience you won't want to miss!. Free Admission.
Gallery Hop!
Friday, December 12, 6-10pm, The District, Downtown Rock Island, IL Galleries, shops, clubs and restaurants offer a variety of visual and performing arts. Presented in conjunction with MidCoast Fine Arts, The ARTery and Quad City Arts. Free Admission. RIDistrict.com
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River Action's Environmental Book Club No book club meeting in December
The Book club is open to the public and meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, January through November at 7pm at the River Action office. For more information, visit www.riveraction.org or call 563-3222969.
January
Trivia Night in LeClaire
Saturday, January 17, doors open at 6:30pm, LeClaire Civic Center, LeClaire, IA Everyone will be entered into a drawing for door prizes. Mulligans 10 for $10. Each team may bring its own snacks, beer, wine, and soft drinks. Dinner available for purchase. Trivia at 7:00 P.M. All proceeds benefit the LeClaire Marketing Alliance. 8-person teams; $10 per person. 563-6394621 or email kettlepopper@gmail.com.
Bald Eagle Days
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, January 9-11, QCCA Expo Center, Rock Island, IL, 309-788-5912 Shows include Birds of Prey, Niabi Zoo Exotic Animals, Pella Wildlife Company, 20-ft climbing Tower, and over 100 display booths, and more. Adults $5, kids $1, kids under 6 free. www.qccaexpocenter.com
River Action's Environmental Book Club
Tuesday, January 27, 7pm, River Action office, 822 E River Dr, Davenport, IA 563-322-2969 Book to be announced. River Action is dedicated to fostering the environmental, economic, & cultural vitality of the Mississippi River and its riverfront. The book discussions are free and open to the public.