Volume 7, Issue 4 | November/December/January 2017-18
A PUBLICATION OF RIVER ACTION, INC. www.riveraction.org
Connecting people to the river
CHANGE THAT IS
TRANSFORMATIVE
Inside: - I-74 Bridge - First Bridge - Upper Mississippi River Conference - Recap: Floatzilla & Taming of the Slough - And much more...
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PUBLISHER’S LET TER
Change That Is Transformative November/December/January 2017 Volume 7 Issue 4 _______
KATHY WINE, Publisher / Executive Director BETH CLARK, Managing Editor, Milepost Ventures, LLC. JEFF VanECHAUTE/pi design, inc., Design LAURA MORRIS, Calendar Editor Contributing Writers HEIDI BRANDT, Fine Art Photography IOWA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION LAURA MORRIS, River Action Staff CAROL PARKER, River Action Staff NOAH TRUESDELL, River Action Staff KATHY WINE, River Action Staff Contributing Photographers IOWA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION BRIAN TUGANA DISPATCH ARGUS RDG PLANNING AND DESIGN ROBIN BAURELY LAURA MORRIS STOCK: INGIMAGE.com Printing Services SUTHERLAND PRINTING © eddy Magazine and River Action, Inc., all rights reserved, 2017. 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
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think of the 1993 Mississippi Flood as transformative because so much of the floodplain was taken out of development after the flood. If Davenport, being the largest city on the river without formal flood control, had received the most damage Kathy Wine then we would have proceeded with planning a flood wall. But cities that had levees breached suffered the most damage; flooding caused the Corps of Engineers, cities, and the environmental agencies to pause, take stock, and change plans when it came to managing flood plains. It was a sea change, if you will. With that in mind, I started to think about the programs, projects and people we have today who are transformative. I found people who are pursuing new ideas, in part because they don’t see funds going to them in a conventional way. Without fresh ideas we won’t achieve the large scale impact we seek. In all, there is a curiosity; they ask: What if? Why not? One such leader is Mark Schwiebert, and we talk about him in this issue. The I-74 bridges, old and new, and the 1856 bridges, old and new, are transformative each in its own way. The DOT land that will be transferred to the cities of Moline and Bettendorf when the new interstate bridge is built will change the riverfronts dramatically. New development, parks and programs will alter the way the river’s edge is used and seen. Such large tracts of land seldom become available; it will be a seldom-seen INSIDE THIS ISSUE transformation. 4 Change that is Transformative Transportation changed dramatically in 4 I-74 Bridge 1856 when East met West in the first railroad by Iowa Department DOT and Illinois DOT 6 I-74 Bridge – Moline bridge to cross the Mississippi in Davenport. by Kathy Wine It opened up the transcontinental railroad 7 Bettendorf Discoveries and development of the upper Mississippi by Kathy Wine 8 Breakthrough Leadership – River and Midwest. Transportation in the 21st Mark Schwiebert Century focuses on alternative modes as much by Kathy Wine as traditional. The bike and pedestrian First 9 First Bridge by Kathy Wine Bridge replica that will cross US 67 open up 9 River Calendar neighborhoods to biking and walking; it will by Heidi Brandt transform the area and serve as the anchor 10 Upper Mississippi River Conference – Gallery for Museum without Walls, an outdoor tour of by Carol Parker historic sites, all within a comfortable distance 11 Taming of the Slough of First Bridge. by Noah Truesdell Finally, another audacious change planned 11 Floatzilla for the Quad Cities in coming years is passenger by Noah Truesdell train service. How it will open up tourism, 12 eddy Calendar: choices in transportation, and associated November, December, January by Laura Morris amenities also will open our eyes to change and endless opportunities.
Cover Photo: Courtesy of Iowa Department of Transportation and Illinois Department of Transportation.
Our Mission: River Action strives to foster the environmental, economic, and cultural vitality of the Mississippi River and its riverfront in the Quad City region.
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TRANSFORMATIVE
A SYMBOL OF TRANSFORMATION IN THE MIDWEST
Building a Bridge for the Future
— by Iowa Department of Transportation and Illinois Department of Transportation
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A rendering of the new I-74 River Bridge looking south. An elevator will be installed in Bettendorf to allow pedestrians to access the connecting multiuse paths.
’70s with the riverfront being redeveloped and re-envisioned as an area of natural beauty to enhance the Quad Cities and provide recreational ade up of quintessential American cities with a long history of opportunities. The new bridge was designed with the environment in visionaries, inventors and entrepreneurs, the Quad Cities has a long history mind – not only to provide a safe, efficient transportation route, but also of transformation. With the help of Deere, Buford, Burrows, the Bettendorf to incorporate the aesthetics of the river. The 164-foot curved arches, brothers and many others, the Quad Cities was put on the map. Y-shaped piers and nature-inspired design elements represent the rolling It comes as no surprise, then, that the people of the Quad Cities had waves and importance of the river to the communities. the perseverance to take the concept of a new I-74 Mississippi River Iowa and Illinois also have been mindful of minimizing the Bridge and make it reality. Many don’t realize how unique it is for cities, let environmental impact of bridge construction and related road alone cities in two different states, to work toward implementing a shared improvements. After determining that a large number of vision. Countless potentially transformative projects mussels, which help to improve water quality and are an are forgotten or scrapped due to shifts in politics and important part of our ecosystem, inhabit the project area, Catch the latest progress economics. steps were taken to mitigate the impact of construction Luckily, state and local leadership, and most on I74RiverBridge.com on federally protected species. In collaboration with the importantly the communities, remained dedicated to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other agencies, the redeveloping their cities and the Quad Cities as a whole. and follow the project states conducted one of the largest mussel relocations The Quad Cities is in the midst of a major transformation in the nation, moving more than 150,000 mussels before on Facebook, Twitter, of both its downtowns and riverfront with an eye toward the start of construction. honoring the local history, landscape and culture that YouTube and LinkedIn Two States; One Great Future it offers. The new I-74 Mississippi River Bridge will be a Many minds came together to bring the I‐74 River recognizable symbol of the Quad Cities’ successful efforts @I74RiverBridge. Bridge project to life. The Iowa and Illinois departments of and will have a lasting impact in the Midwest. transportation and the Federal Highway Administration, Embracing local history in conjunction with the municipalities and the Bi-State The existing I-74 bridge, officially named the Iowa-Illinois Memorial Regional Commission, teamed up to address decades-long issues related Bridge, historically has provided an important east-west link in the to the existing bridge and thereby improve safety and traffic flow in the nation's transportation network. It crosses the Mississippi River on Quad Cities. They had a vision for a state-of-the-art I-74 Mississippi River two separate structures. The westbound bridge, Illinois to Iowa, was Bridge – with safety and innovation leading the design. completed and opened in 1935. The eastbound bridge, Iowa to Illinois, Through extensive coordination and public input, the project partners was completed in 1959 and opened in 1960. developed a solution that benefits all. Part of a regional strategy for Today, the new design provides not only an improved transportation improving access across the Mississippi River in the Quad Cities, the plan corridor but also a link to the Quad Cities’ past: The design firm of the includes the replacement of the existing I-74 bridge as well as interchange original I-74 suspension bridges, Modjeski and Masters, also was on the ramp reconfigurations and local roadway improvements. design team for the new structure. This joint $1.2 billion project will help to reinforce the vitality of the Embracing culture and environment communities it serves and provide enhanced opportunities for those who The drive to embrace the Mississippi River again began in the ’60s and live, learn, work and play in the Quad Cities. Construction is anticipated
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In celebration of the joint efforts of Iowa and Illinois working together toward their shared vision for the future, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds and Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner were joined by officials from Bettendorf, Davenport, Moline and Rock Island at the I‐74 Bridge groundbreaking ceremony in June 2017.
to take place over three-and-a-half years, and in the new bridge is anticipated to be open by the end of 2020. A Design for the Communities The new I‐74 Bridge will stand tall, proudly representing efforts to take transportation into the 21st century. After much input from the public, the design of the bridge was selected for its engineering and safety performance, aesthetics and financial feasibility. The project team will construct two bridges – with a true-arch design and 795-foot main span – along a new alignment to the east of the existing bridges, minimizing disruptions to traffic during construction. An aesthetic theme was created for the corridor representing the connection between the river and the local communities. This theme will
A scenic overlook will be installed along the multi-use path.
be exhibited throughout the corridor in the pattern on the bridge rails, imprints on retaining wall faces, shapes of lighting and other elements. LED light fixtures will be installed on and underneath the mainline and bridge arches for a safer drive and captivating view. To increase pedestrian and bicycle accessibility, a 14-foot-wide multi‐ use path along the downstream side of the Illinois-bound bridge will be included, along with an elevator in Bettendorf. The multi‐use path will provide new connections to existing paths in Bettendorf and Moline. Pedestrians and bicyclists will be able to stop and appreciate the view at the scenic overlook located at the center of the multi-use path. Below their feet, they will find a glass platform through which they can watch the water of the Mississippi River flow.
Bridge , continued on page 6 >
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Full shoulders on both sides of the bridges will improve maintenance operations as well, allowing for easier access for maintenance and emergency vehicles, reducing the need for lane closures. Ready for the Future The Quad Cities’ communities are growing. Rush-hour congestion is hectic, and safety and reliability are a priority when it comes to getting from point A to point B. With the reconstruction of the I-74 bridge comes a slew of benefits to local communities and commuters. Roadway Capacity and Design Improvements The new bridge will be nearly double the width of the existing bridge, offering four lanes in each direction. To improve traffic flow and capacity on the rest of I-74, between Middle Road in Bettendorf and Avenue of the Cities in Moline, the roadway will be expanded to three lanes with additional turn lanes in certain locations. Intersection improvements also will be completed. Increased Safety and Reliability The unreliability of the existing I-74 bridge has long been a common complaint. With only two lanes and no shoulders, a traffic accident or any maintenance work often requires one, if not both, lanes to be closed, creating long delays for drivers. By adding more lanes, improving onand off-ramp locations and installing new transportation management technology, the corridor will provide safer, more reliable travel. Bicycle and Pedestrian Amenities The Quad Cities has impressive bicycle and pedestrian paths as well as other amenities along the riverfront. The new bridge will incorporate
A side-by-side comparison of the existing suspension bridge and new true-arch bridge
these features by providing a multi-use path connecting the existing paths in Bettendorf and Moline. Economic Development Economic vibrancy has become an important focus on both the regional and local level in the Quad Cities. Improving the transportation infrastructure supports efforts by the Bi-State Regional Commission and the municipalities to stimulate economic development. The I-74 Mississippi River Bridge complements the Quad Cities’ ongoing efforts to build better communities. Bringing the Quad Cities Together Many people have come together to make this project happen – from the departments of transportation to the people of the communities in Iowa and Illinois, and more. An idea raised from the history of the cities and developed to meet the needs of both drivers and pedestrians has expanded into a monumental moment for two states in the Midwest. The Iowa and Illinois departments of transportation, as well as the entire I-74 River Bridge project team, look forward to joining the Quad Cities on this shared journey of transformation.
Transformative aspects of I-74 in Moline — By Kathy Wine
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n Moline, the Planning Commission will hold a public workshop later this year to discuss the use of 25-35 acres that will be given to the City of Moline. The master plan for Moline City Center is in its second phase, and this exercise in what to do with the land from Illinois Department of Transportation will be led by The Lakota Group, the Chicago planning firm that coordinated the master plan. The city has first right of refusal for all land turned over by IDOT in 2021. Those parcels will extend from the river’s edge to 7th Avenue. To date there have been successes in downtown planning; TaxSlayer Center, John Deere Commons, Bass Street Landing, Western Illinois University; all have been core redevelopment pods. The next major phase cuts a swath back, and city planners feel this opens up new possibilities. “We not only get the new land, but a chance to redevelop significant amounts of land — create a new palette of development now and a new, modern/post-modern riverfront that can incorporate the newest in LEED features, environmentally sensitive design, as well as public access. A paradigm shift, if you will,” Jeff Anderson, Senior City Planner remarked. Urban form, architecture, access, and programs are lined up to influence land use. The passenger train and multi-modal station, The Q, is a regional project, specifically a regional transportation system. WIU, while not a transportation infrastructure project, has serious implications for transportation. It reestablishes rail service with Chicago which is very important for many WIU students and tourism.
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The Q in downtown Moline, Illinois. (Image courtesy of Legat Architects)
The linkage is important, but the station itself will drive density where transit can be better integrated. While constructing the connections, Anderson further explains, “As planners, it forces us, given the opportunity to figure out how downtown residents get to school, work, or Chicago, and other places to move them with intelligence behind it. It is the “hub of the wheel” reaching out to the airport. There are a lot of layers to think about.” Connecting ourselves with these transportation connections is important. Part of excitement and interest in The Q is trying to intertwine the history of transforming a century-old building, and integrating it with green building principles and historic tax credits. The Green Line environment, being sensitive to all the building aspects as well as green transportation will make us a dominant, thriving region economically.
TRANSFORMATIVE
Discoveries in Bettendorf â&#x20AC;&#x201D; By Kathy Wine
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hile the City of Bettendorf, unlike Moline, does not have first right of refusal (rather 3rd right) on remnant parcels given up by the DOT, there are a number of scenarios that will show transformation at the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s river edge. If the Bill Glynn Park adjacent to the present bridge is turned over, which is likely, it will complement The Bridges Upscale Lofts which in turn will transform downtown Bettendorf and how it is perceived by local residents and visitors traveling into Iowa on the new I-74 thoroughfare. Developer, Newbury Living, building on the tract acquired after demolition of the old Twin Bridges Hotel, believes The Bridges project offers a unique combination of spectacular river views from the lofts and access to amenities that appeal to those looking to maintain an active lifestyle. Adding to the urban living landscape and amenities in Bettendorf will be Jetty Park which the city is developing in partnership with The Isle/ Eldorado Casino. It will include a landscaped overlook, greenspace, and fishing piers and is planned to open in April, 2018. Additional plans for 2018 include more outlay in the I-74 Urban Park District: a performance stage, gateway signs with stone and water
Jetty Park. (Image courtesy of City of Bettendorf.)
features, and City Hall Plaza coordinated with expansion of the fire station totaling nearly $100 million in investment near the river. When the new interstate bridge is built, 1.5 miles under and on either side will be made into park space. Jeff Reiter, Bettendorf Economic Development Director, envisions more natural light due to the elevation of the bridge, and land that can be converted into a large water feature with floating islands, fountain, and walking paths. The iconic elevator that will rise from Leach Park to the bridge for bikers and pedestrians elevates everything into extraordinary new discoveries.
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BREAKTHROUGH LEADERSHIP
Mark Schwiebert — by Kathy Wine
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esides leading the City of Rock Island for 20 years as mayor, creating technology task forces, green teams, and riverfront development, Mark Schwiebert pursued other passions such as environmental justice, the arts, climate change, and recycling, always generating energy in the Quad Cities along the way. To say he works passionately is accurate, and he continues to have an impact eight years after stepping down as mayor. Necessity is the drive that makes Mark work to mitigate climate change. His awakening came with An Inconvenient Truth, by Al Gore, and was further strengthened by attending a meeting in Sundance, Idaho, with Robert Redford. Out of that awakening he determined that we can no longer ignore climate change, only manage it. Being clear about wanting to manage it, in 2015 he set up a designated fund at the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend in his name. It funds two initiatives: increasing awareness
Cell: 563.370.8990 Stan Goodyear, CFP, CPA REALTOR®, Licensed in Iowa & Illinois, SRES® 4545 Welcome Way Davenport, IA 52806 StanGoodyear@RuhlHomes.com
www.StanleyGoodyear.RuhlHomes.com
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about environmental challenges posed by climate change, and research for projects aimed at facing those challenges head-on. Up to $2,500 per year can be awarded to organizations, colleges and universities and governmental organizations. “The grants are intended to be modest, but strategic,” Schwiebert said. “I’m glad to be able to do it, and I’m hopeful it will result in outcomes.” If this initiative is anything like his earlier ones, it will. Preserving the environment was at the core of his first self-published novel in 2016. The Template: A Parable of the Environment, set in 2020, portrays the possible future of our planet and explores alternatives to the crises that come with climate change. For Schwiebert, the world he wishes to leave is one in which we care for our surroundings, offer opportunities for others to bring creative solutions to challenges, and work with one another to make our community strong. This fund, he said, helps him do that now and forever. His example of making change is one of transformative leadership.
90.3 FM
Michelle O’Neil NPR Host
TRANSFORMATIVE
First Bridge Transformation — By Kathy Wine
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ne hundred and sixty-one years after its construction, the recreation of the first bridge is more relevant than ever. It opened the West to the transcontinental railway in 1856; today it addresses the 21st century needs for alternative transportation such as bike and pedestrian trails. When it first crossed the Mississippi, it was a freedom trail, passage for the Mormon wagon train, access to Chicago markets for farmers west of the river, and transportation for John Deere plows from Moline to the West. Today, the First Bridge project will foster changes, too. It will provide a safe crossing of US 67 where a few years ago a pedestrian was struck and killed trying to cross the four-lane roadway. With its connection to new housing in the East Davenport warehouse district and River Heritage Park, it will act as a gateway to downtown Davenport and two national trails, the Mississippi River Trail and American Discover Trail. The historic tourism industry will be served by Lincoln enthusiasts visiting the site of Lincoln’s greatest case involving the river and the bridge. Finally, using the strategy of creative placemaking, leveraging arts and culture to serve a community’s agenda for change, growth, and transformation in a way that also builds quality of place, First Bridge will serve as the anchor of Museum Without Walls, a walking tour that will link 12 sites surrounding the landmark and tell the story of the Quad Cities . Those sites include the Black Hawk Treaty signing (1832), Antoine LeClaire
Drawing by RDG Planning and Design.
House (1855), Fred B. Sharon House (1891), Dred Scott marker (1843), “Lincoln with Boy on Bridge” (statue commemorating the 1857 Abraham Lincoln case), John Brown Freedom Trail (1855), Mormon Trail (1846-68) River Heritage Park, Col. Davenport House (1833) Rock Island first bridge pier(1856) and Fort Armstrong (1816-36).
Award-Winning Quad City Calendar Featured in Art Exhibit — By Heidi Brandt
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ocal artist Heidi Brandt is launching the third edition of “Art Meets the River”, a calendar showcasing Quad City river art from local artists. Heidi was honored to receive an Eddy award in the art category for the 2017 calendar. The calendars will be available starting October 27 with a portion of the proceeds benefitting River Action. The third year of this project features five local artists utilizing different media to further showcase the talent in the Quad Cities. “Many local artists use our environment as inspiration so it seemed fitting to represent different art media in the project.” says project coordinator and artist Heid Brandt. “I would like to inspire the community to create and purchase local art and to be good stewards of the environment.” Contributing artists are Pat Bereskin, Brad Bisbey, Heidi Brandt, Dee Schricker and Robert Zeidler. An art exhibit featuring the calendar art will be held at the Boho Chic Gallery at the Bucktown Center for the Arts in Davenport, from October 28 through November 12. An opening reception will be held at Bucktown’s Final Friday event, October 27
from 6 to 9 p.m. The exhibit will move to the Bereskin Gallery and Art Academy in Bettendorf as part of its holiday exhibit. River Action strives to foster the environmental, economic, and cultural vitality of the Mississippi River and its riverfront in the Quad City region. For more information contact Heidi Brandt at 563-3402611 or hbrandtcreative@mchsi.com.
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Big River, Big Challenges Explored at 10th Annual Upper Mississippi River Conference, Oct. 11-12, 2017 Attendees listen to Amy Kay, Clean Water Manager for Davenport, Iowa discussing landscaping options to mitigate climate change.
â&#x20AC;&#x201D; by Carol Parker
Western Illinois University student discusses her research with Dr. Ross Powell of Northern Illinois University.
Mik Holgersson of Vildmark, Inc. points out a feature of the Green Valley Nature Preserve during Thursdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s field trip to tour the wetlands area.
Dana Starkell told tales of his epic canoe voyages in North and South America.
Dr. Ross Powell addresses the luncheon session on impacts of climate change in the Midwest.
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Local Quad Cities high school students interact with Western Illinois University doctoral students at the poster session.
RIVER RECAPS
Taming of the Slough O n the sunny morning of September 16, nearly 100 men and women gathered at Empire Park by the edge of the Campbell’s Island Slough. They set out to conquer River Action’s Taming of the Slough Adventure Triathlon. Racers competed individually or in teams of up to three members to race around Campbell’s Island in kayak or canoe, through Illiniwek Forest Preserve on their mountain bikes, and crossed the finish line after running through the McNeal Preserve. The course in total covered 14.1 miles. Racers took to the slough for wave starts. They had a tough water course due to low water levels requiring them to go upstream on the river side of Campbell’s Island. The mountain bike course was in great condition thanks to our dry weather, which was great for two of our racers who competed using unicycles. The weather and route were in perfect condition, resulting in good times for our racers, even though they had
— by Noah Truesdell
Taming of the Slough participants position themselves for the start of River Action's adventure triathlon.
to fight the Mississippi current. Our (Photo courtesy of Dispatch/Argus) fastest time this year came from Josh Kappelman who came all the way from Ohio to take part in our race. This year we had several racers participating in Taming of the Slough as part of the 3x3 Adventure Series. The series includes three adventure triathlons that take place near the Quad Cities every year. The first race in the series was the Timber City Adventure Race on June 23 through Maquoketa, Iowa. Then the racers had a break before the Taming of the Slough along the Mississippi River. The series ended at the Annawan Canal Ambush, where the final leg of the series was paddling along a section of the Hennepin Canal. The winner was chosen by the fastest aggregate time from all three races. The champion of the first ever 3x3 Adventure Series, and winner of the 3x3 Cup was Tara Ferencik of LeClaire, Iowa.
— By Noah Truesdell
O Floatzilla
ver 1300 people from 17 states came to the Quad Cities for this year’s World Record attempt. The morning started at 7:00 am at our first launch point. Nearly half of Floatzilla’s participants descended upon Empire Park in East Moline to start their trip down the Mississippi River. Everyone who locked through Lock and Dam 15 launched at Empire Park this year, making it our most popular launch. The Ben Butterworth launch point had to be closed due to River Drive construction in Moline. Paddlers had to choose between moving to the Empire Park launch or moving to our new launch site at the Two Rivers YMCA Rowing Center in downtown Moline. The new launch site provided a place for people who were planning on portaging over Sylvan Island to launch without having to avoid the construction barges in the Mississippi River. Everyone made their way to Lake Potter in Rock Island for our World Record attempts. In addition to the attempt for largest flotilla of canoes and kayaks, there was an attempt for the largest simultaneous launch of kayaks and canoes. In order to set the new record we had to have at least 397 boats launch within a 15 second window. A video of the attempt was shot from a drone and we await determination from Guinness. Our annual attempt and group photo took place after the launch, attempting to break the record of 3,150 boats that were arranged into a flotilla in Inlet, New York in 2014 to raise money for breast cancer research.
Photo by Brian Tugana
EASY TO FIND. HARD TO RESIST.
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eddy C A L E N D A R
November
Quad City Arts Festival of Trees November 16-18; RiverCenter Great Hall, 136 E. 3rd St, Davenport; 563-324-3378 Experience the magic of the most loved holiday tradition in the QC. This festival is one of the top 10 events of its kind in the country. It takes 3500 volunteers, 650 designers, 3500 center stage entertainers and over 250 sponsors to make the festival possible every year.
Festival of Trees Parade
Breakfast Nature Club: Small Mammals
Friday, November 3, 8-9am; Nahant Marsh, 4220 Wapello Ave., Davenport, IA; 563-336-3370; $5 members, $10 non-members Learn the secrets of Iowa’s wildlife during this monthly class at Nahant Marsh. A continental breakfast with coffee, juice, and tea is included in the fee. Participants are encouraged to join in a “coffee talk" to share stories of wildlife encounters, and anything nature related.
Becoming a Weather Scientist
Saturday, November 4, 1pm; Wapsi River Environmental Education Center, 31555 52nd Ave, Dixon, IA 52745; 563-328-3286 Join National Weather Service Warning Coordination Meteorologist Donna Dubberke, for an informational Citizen Science program. The program will introduce and describe the various options available to people to be a "citizen scientist" - general information about storm spotting, how to become a spotter, rainfall observers, Weather-Ready Nation, etc. Registration is required. Please call to register for this program.
Skull Study
Saturday, November 11, 10-11am; Nahant Marsh, 4220 Wapello Ave., Davenport, IA; 563-336-3370; $3 member, $6 non-member Discover fascinating facts about animals by studying our collection of skulls. In this family-friendly program, participants will learn how to identify skulls by assessing their size, shape, and teeth.
Lighting on the Commons
Saturday, November 18; John Deere Commons, 1201 River Dr., Moline, IL Experience the sights and sounds of the holiday during the Lighting of John Deere Commons in downtown Moline. Take a carriage ride and watch the fireworks during this holiday celebration centered around the famous John Deere Pavilion.
Free Family Day
Saturday, November 18; Figge Art Museum, 225 West Second Street, Davenport, IA 563-326-7804 Sponsored by the Quad City Times, the Figge Art Museum will be free to families.
QC Audubon Society’s Lock & Dam 13 Field Trip
Nature Hike
Saturday, November 4, 9-10am; Nahant Marsh, 4220 Wapello Ave., Davenport, IA; 563-336-3370; $5 suggested donation Join a Naturalist for a guided hike along the trails at the Marsh. Hikes are offered on the first Saturday of the month and give visitors an opportunity to experience the environmental changes as the plants and wildlife adapt to the seasons.
Saturday, November 18, 9:45am; Downtown Davenport, 331 W 3rd Street, Davenport, IA; 309-793-1213 Experience the largest helium-balloon parade in the Midwest! Live marching bands, large character balloons towering over 3 stories tall, clowns, floats and more. Come and enjoy the holiday festivities during this annual parade. The Festival of Trees features beautifully decorated Christmas trees, live entertainment, silent auctions, and a fun-filled North Pole kids' area.
Family Fun Night
Friday, November 17, 5-8:30pm; Putnam Museum & Science Center, 1717 W 12th St, Davenport, IA; 563-3241933 Chemistry can be fun for the whole family! You’re not going to want to miss this science aLIVE! demonstration. Learn about atoms and molecules, acids and bases, chemical reactions and more with activities and science experiments happing throughout the Grand Lobby.
Sunday, November 19, 7am; The Brother’s Restaurant parking lot, 1718 2nd Ave, Rapids City, IL; 563-381-2930 Join the QC Audubon Society as they visit the area near Thomson, IL. Observe waterfowl migrations.
Environmental Book Club
Tuesday, November 28, 7pm; River Action office, 822 E River Dr., Davenport, IA; 563-322-2969 River Action and the Sierra Club host a monthly environmental book club. The book this month is 100 Heartbeats: The Race to Save Earth’s Most Endangered Species by Jeff Corwin. The book discussions are free and open to the public.
DAVEY
Phone: (563) 355-0701 ®
TREE & SHRUB EXPERTS SINCE 1880
(309) 788-8733 Fax:
(563) 355-8465
JASON HOUSWORTH I.S.A. Certified Arborist # IL4228A
3512 Jersey Ridge Road Davenport, IA 52807
THE DAVEY TREE EXPERT COMPANY
(563) 359-3494
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District Manager
David A. Johnson, D.D.S.
eddy Magazine | www.riveraction.org
133 12th Street ● Bettendorf, IA 52722 ● www.davey.com
December
Breakfast Nature Club: Skull Study
Friday, December1, 8-9am; Nahant Marsh, 4220 Wapello Ave., Davenport, IA; 563-336-3370; $5 members, $10 non-members Learn the secret life of Iowa’s wildlife during this monthly class at Nahant Marsh. A continental breakfast with coffee, juice, and tea is included in the fee. Participants are encouraged to join in a “coffee talk”, to share stories of wildlife encounters, and anything nature related.
Nature Hike
Saturday, December 2, 9-10am; Nahant Marsh, 4220 Wapello Ave., Davenport, IA; 563-336-3370; $5 suggested donation Join a Naturalist for a guided hike along the trails at the Marsh. Hikes are offered on the first Saturday of the month and give visitors an opportunity to experience the environmental changes as the plants and wildlife adapt to the seasons.
Holiday Wreath Class
Saturday, December 2, 1-3pm; Moline Greenhouse, 3400 5th Ave, Moline, IL; 309-524-2424; $20 per person Participants can drink tea, enjoy cookies and design a fresh-cut evergreen wreath. Bring hand clippers and gloves. Some ribbon will be available but additional bows or garnishes are welcome. Space is limited.
Christmas at Augustana
Saturday, December 2, 2pm; Centennial Hall, Augustana College, 3703 7th Ave, Rock Island, IL Three hundred student musicians will take the stage for Christmas at Augustana, featuring performances by the Augustana Brass Ensemble, Ascension Ringers, Augustana Symphony Orchestra Augustana Choir, Augustana Concert Choir, Augustana Concert Chorale and Jenny Lind Vocal Ensemble.
19th Century Christmas
Natural Wreath Workshop
Saturday, December 16, 1pm; Wapsi River Environmental Education Center, 31555 52nd Ave, Dixon, IA 52745; 563-328-3286 Join Naturalist, Michael J. Granger, for a lesson on wreath making. Participants will be able to fashion a wreath out of grapevine and then decorate it with natural items. Visitors may bring evergreen tree trimmings, seeds, nuts or other natural items to make their wreath a “one of a kind”. Please call to pre-register.
Sunday, December 3, 12-5pm; Butterworth Center, 1105 8th Street, Moline, IL; 309-743-2701 Start off your holiday season on a festive note! Fun for everyone in the family in two historic homes beautifully decorated for the holidays. Live music, children’s crafts, face painting, displays, entertainers, refreshments and a visit from Santa!
Crafting for Conservation
Saturday, December 16, 10-12pm; Wapsi River Environmental Education Center, 31555 52nd Ave, Dixon, IA 52745; 563-328-3286 Join Naturalist, Becky Horton, for our first installment of our Crafting for Conservation series. During this series, we will be making arts and crafts out of either natural or recyclable items. During this session, we will be making gift bags out of old calendars and gift bows out of old magazines just in time for the Holiday season! Registration is required. Please call to register for this program.
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429 E. 3rd St., Davenport, IA 563-322-0430 or 563-293-1966
November/December/January 2017-18 | eddy Magazine
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eddy C A L E N D A R < Continued from page 13
January Bald Eagle Days
January 6-8; QCCA Expo Center, 2621 4th Ave, Rock Island, IL; $6 adults, $1 for kids 6-15, Free to kids under 6 See indoor displays and take guided tours for eagle sighting. Shows will include Birds of Prey, Niabi Zoo Exotic Animals, and over 100 display booths. Don’t forget to stop by River Action’s booth!
Photo courtesy of ingimage.com
Cocoa Picasso - Birds & Beaks
Sunday, January 21, 1pm; Wapsi River Environmental Education Center, 31555 52nd Ave, Dixon, IA 52745; 563-328-3286; $5 In this kid-friendly class that blends nature and art, learn about birds and what they eat. Then enjoy complimentary hot cocoa while you learn to paint a themed picture on canvas in a guided step-by-step experience. Call to register.
Quad Cities Farm Show
January 14-16; QCCA Expo Center, 2621 4th Ave, Rock Island, IL Over 200 agricultural companies will fill all of the available space at the QCCA Expo Center in Rock Island, Illinois as the Quad Cities Farm Equipment Show opens for its three-day run.
Family Fun Night
Friday, January 19, 5-8:30pm; Putnam Museum & Science Center, 1717 W 12th St, Davenport, IA; 563-324-1933 Did you know that the Great Barrier Reef spans over 1,000 miles?! Find out about our outstanding oceans and reefs in this Family Fun Night! Discover our relationship with the ocean and how we can make a positive impact on the beings that live there with several activities throughout the Grand Lobby.
Home: 563-386-9162 Office: 563-326-5583 Fax: 563-326-1590
Tuesday, January 23, 7pm; River Action office, 822 E River Dr., Davenport, IA; 563322-2969 River Action and the Sierra Club host a monthly environmental book club. The book to be discussed has not been selected, but will be published on River Action’s website (www.riveraction.org). The book discussions are free and open to the public.
12th Annual STEM Expo
Saturday, January 27; Bettendorf Middle School, 2030 Middle Rd, Bettendorf, IA Join many local presenters for a fun, hands-on event featuring science, technology, engineering and math activities for K-8th grade students. Learn about birds of prey, with live bird of prey sessions! Come learn about these beautiful predators up close including owls and falcons. Visit bms.bettendorf.k12.ia.us for more information.
Dr. Robert J.S. Ward Chiropractor
(By appointment)
1802 West Locust Street, Davenport, IA 52804
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Environmental Book Club
| www.riveraction.org
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