19 Aug 2015

Vettes on the River - Vettes Supporting Vets, Saturday, August 29, 2015

By Cindy Bruhn
LECLAIRE, Iowa - The Mid-West Corvette Club is hosting "Vettes on the River - Vettes Supporting Vets" in LeClaire, Iowa with all proceeds benefitting Local Veterans' Chapter 669.
The event is Saturday, August 29, 2015, on the LeClaire, Iowa Levee from 8am until 4pm. Most cars should be in attendance by noon that day. A flag raising ceremony by Vietnam Veterans will take place at 11am to salute all veterans and active military.
250-300 Corvettes from across the Midwest are expected to attend this event on the LeClaire Levee for a fun car show highlighting Corvettes old and new. If you own a Corvette, this is a great event to show fellow Corvette enthusiasts your "pride & joy" along the beautiful Mississippi River. There will be a LeClaire's choice award and trophies for each "C" generation. There will also be live music by "Cosmic" and a NASCAR Racing Simulator to challenge your driving skills. Admission is FREE for spectators.
Enjoy shopping, dining, touring and all LeClaire has to offer while showing off or admiring the Corvettes.
Contact Randy Huber at 563-340-0460 or graphicworks@wildblue.net for more information. Also find updates at: www.facebook.com/VettesontheRiver2015
Situated at the intersection of I-80 and Hwy. 67, just north of the Quad Cities, LeClaire offers a complete shopping, dining, and touring experience. Relax along the scenic streets of this historic river town that exudes turn-of-the-century charm. LeClaire has great events including a monthly First Friday event, weekly Farmer's Market, car shows, Tug Fest in August, Apple Fest in October, and Christmas in LeClaire in early December. Attractions include the Buffalo Bill Museum, Antique Archaeology - "Home of the American Pickers", Wide River Winery, the Mississippi River Distilling Co., and the Green Tree Brewery. Nature lovers enjoy the scenery at Lock and Dam #14 - bald eagles in the winter and pelicans during the spring and fall. For more information: http://www.visitleclaire.com/index2.html

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12 Aug 2015

Dedication of Chris Craft Boat Now on Display at the Buffalo Bill Museum in LeClaire, Iowa

By Cindy Bruhn
LeClaire, Iowa. The public is invited to the Buffalo Bill Museum, 199 Front Street, LeClaire, Iowa, on Sunday, August 23 at 1pm for the dedication of the 1939 Chris Craft Runabout donated by the Suiter family in the River Pilot's Pier. Light refreshments will be served.
With legendary local banker and river enthusiast Glen Suiter's passing in May of 2013, the Suiter family has decided to honor Glen and his passion for boating, the Mississippi River, and the rich history that the LeClaire Buffalo Bill Museum in LeClaire, Iowa offers visitors. The Suiter Family has generously donated Glen's historical, artisan Chris Craft wooden boat for display at the museum to add to their growing collection of fascinating cultural artifacts.
The artisan (Pre-War) 1939 Chris Craft Utility Series 15.5' Runabout was built to fare the lakes and rivers of a nation moving up stream. Chris Smith, founder of the company that would one day bear his name, started his business with the vision of building a boat that was as versatile and reliable as the public demanded it. Originally intended for hunters and fishermen, the Chris Craft line soon expanded eventually earning it the distinction as the largest mahogany boat manufacturer in the world. With the United States recovering from the pains of the Great Depression, Chris Craft built the Utility Series to be both practical and affordable. During the years of World War II, Navy sailors became familiar with Chris Craft designs as the company produced more than 10,000 wooden landing craft for WWII vessels to aid in the war effort.
The boat donated to the Buffalo Bill Museum in LeClaire, Iowa by the Suiter family is a fully restored example of the American craftsmanship that to this day sets a Chris Craft apart. The JV II, as this vessel was named, was powered by an original Gray Marine 4-cylinder engine that produced 60 HP allowing it to reach a top speed of 40 mph. In 1971, Chris Craft discontinued their mahogany hulls, "woodys" as they were called, for newer fiberglass designs.
The "woodys" soon became highly sought after by collectors and boat enthusiasts alike. The JV II, like its neighbor, the Lone Star Wooden Hull Stream-powered Vessel, spent its final operating years along the banks of the Mighty Mississippi. How fitting it is to be back in the port of LeClaire along side another wooden hull vessel of such great distinction.
Today, the museum welcomes nearly 22,000 visitors a year from all over the United States and at least 20 foreign countries. It operates 7 days a week, primarily through the efforts of volunteers, and remains a popular tourist destination along the I-80 corridor.
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11 Aug 2015

29th Annual Tug Fest Across the Mighty Mississippi River, August 13-15, 2015.

By Cindy Bruhn
LECLAIRE, Iowa - The cities of LeClaire, Iowa and Port Byron, Illinois are preparing for their unique 3-day event that is unlike any festival anywhere else in the USA.  It's called Tug Fest and runs August 13-15.
Tug Fest includes live bands, carnival rides, great food, a grand parade, 5K run and the greatest fireworks spectacular in the two-state area. What makes Tug Fest truly unique is the fact that it is the only Tug-of-War event in the country that spans two states and crosses the Mississippi River. LeClaire, Iowa's theme this year is "Safari", and "Tug for a Cause" proceeds go to King Harvest Pet Rescue.
On the August 15th from 12:30-3:00 PM, barge traffic and pleasure boats will yield the right of way to a 2,400 foot long, 680 pound rope that stretches across the river between the two towns. Eleven teams from each side compete against each other trying to gain advantage by pulling in the most feet of rope within 3 minutes. The town with the most winning teams receives the coveted "Alabaster Eagle in Flight" trophy and bragging rights for that year.
This year's festival kicks off on Thursday, August 13th with Family Night and free admission to the LeClaire Levee area. For $20 you will receive a wristband for unlimited carnival rides that evening. Friday, August 14th is the grand parade and fireworks spectacular, and Saturday, August 15th is all about tugging.  Illinois leads the competition with 17 winning years over Iowa's 11.  Admission to the LeClaire Levee is $5 on Friday and Saturday.
For more information and a complete Tug Fest schedule, please visit: www.tugfest.com
Situated at the intersection of I-80 and Hwy. 67 just north of the Quad Cities, LeClaire offers a complete shopping and dining experience. Relax along the scenic streets of this historic river town that exudes turn-of-the-century charm. LeClaire has great events including First Friday, weekly Farmer's Market, car shows, and the Tug Fest in August. Attractions include the Buffalo Bill Museum, Antique Archaeology - "Home of the American Pickers", Wide River Winery and The Mississippi River Distilling Co. Nature lovers enjoy the scenery at Lock and Dam #14 - bald eagles in the winter and pelicans during the spring and fall. For more information: www.visitleclaire.com

Tug Fest - LeClaire, Iowa Contact:
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31 Jul 2015

LeClaire - August 1 and beyond

By Cindy Bruhn
Saturday, August 1: 28th Annual Heartland British Auto Fest. 9am-3pm; free admission for spectators. Downtown LeClaire, Iowa on the River. The Quad Cities British Auto Club is hosting this year's Heartland British Auto Fest in LeClaire, Iowa on the Levee for the third year. Show registration and car clean up are from 9am to noon. First and second place trophies will be awarded to all 16 classes, and a trophy will be awarded for best of show and for the entrant traveling the longest distance. Door prizes will be handed out throughout the afternoon. In addition, a DJ will be providing 50s, 60s and 70s rock 'n roll. To pre-register, call Jim Shepherd 563-349-0668.
Fridays through September 25: Live Music every Friday 5-8pm at Wide River Winery Tasting Room in LeClaire, Iowa. www.wideriverwinery.com
Friday, August 7: The Green Tree Brewery is opening and will be participating in First Friday. 309 N. Cody Road. https://greentreebrewery.com/
Friday, August 7: First Friday, 5:30-8pm. Downtown LeClaire, Iowa. Fun food and cocktail sampling at the Mississippi River Distilling Co. and Cody Road Barrel-aged Boetje's Mustard is back, wine tasting at Wide River Winery with Live Music by Lewis Knudsen, Live Music at 7:30pm at The Faithful Pilot Café & Spirits with Jordan Danielsen & Jef Spradley, restaurant specials, and many shops open late.
Saturday, August 8, 8-10am: Cars & Coffee in LeClaire. Bring your favorite ride and join them on the beautiful riverfront in LeClaire for an "all are welcome" social gathering. Be sure to grab coffee & donuts before heading down! Weather permitting. Are you a car aficionado? Join their Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/groups/CarsandcoffeeLeClaire/ and keep up on all future Cars & Coffee events.
Thursday - Saturday, August 13-15: Tug Fest. Downtown LeClaire, Iowa on the River. Carnival wristband night on Thursday. Parade and huge fireworks display on Friday evening. Saturday morning there is a 5K Run/1Mile Color Fun Run and kids' tug is at 11am. The main event, tug-of-war across the Mississippi River between LeClaire, Iowa and Port Byron, Illinois, is from 12:30-3:00pm on Saturday. Details can be found at www.tugfest.com
Saturday, August 29, 8am-4pm: Vettes on the River. Downtown LeClaire, Iowa on the River. Come see over 250 Corvettes participating in this event. If you own a Corvette, this is a great event to show fellow Corvette enthusiasts your "pride & joy". There will be a Mayor's choice award and trophies for each "C" generation. They will also have a flag ceremony, live music by "Cosmic", and a NASCAR Racing Simulator to challenge your driving skills. 100% of the charity proceeds from this event will go to the Local Veterans Chapter 669. Contact Randy Huber at 563-340-0460 for more information.
Event details:
21 May 2015

LeClaire Memorial Day activities

By Cindy Bruhn
  1. Many LeClaire businesses are open on Memorial Day and we have some special ceremonies, too. Of special note is the final dedication of the Scott County Freedom Rock with completed lighting. There will be program and official lighting of the Rock at 8:30pm on May 25th. Details are below. Photos are available upon request.
  2. Monday, May 25: Memorial Day Services. 10:30am, Glendale Cemetery, 598 S 14th Street, LeClaire, IA. Veterans will place a wreath at the cemetery's flag memorial. 11am, Bridgeview Elementary School, 316 S. 12th St. A service will be conducted with LeClaire Councilman and Army Sgt First Class, Justin Graff, speaking and the Pleasant Valley 9th Grade Concert Band performing.
  3. Monday, May 25, 8:30pm: Lighting Dedication to celebrate the completion of the Scott County Freedom Rock. 8:30pm, south end of LeClaire Levee. A service will be conducted with LeClaire Councilman and Army Sgt First Class, Justin Graff and LeClaire Mayor, Bob Scannell speaking. The colors will be presented and there will be a prayer service and bagpipe performance. The completed Scott County Freedom Rock with landscaping will be lit for the first time.
  5. Monday, May 25: Many LeClaire Businesses are Open on Memorial Day!
  6. Shops - Antique Archaeology 10am-6pm, Artswork 10am-5pm, Aunt Hattie's 10:30am-5pm, Grace Home Furnishings 10am-5pm, Grasshoppers Noon-4pm, Isabel Bloom Noon-4pm, LeClaire Olive Oil Co. 10am-5pm, Mississippi Cottage Antiques 10am-4pm, Unique Recycled Creations & Gifts 10am-4pm.
  7. Food / Restaurants - Bierstube 10:30am-10pm/bar until midnight, Big Dave & Holly's 11am-9pm, Blue Iguana 11am-9pm, Crane & Pelican 11am-9pm, Happy Joe's 11am-9pm, Jones St Java House 8am-4pm, Riverview Roadhouse, 11am-?, The Shameless Chocoholic Noon-4pm.
  8. Attractions - Buffalo Bill Museum 9am-5pm, Mississippi River Distilling Co. 10am-5pm, Wide River Winery 11am-6pm.
  9. If you don't see your favorite listed here, please call them to check on their hours that day:
  10. http://www.visitleclaire.com/index2.html
29 Apr 2015

Act Soon to be Part of a Lasting Memorial with the Scott County Freedom Rock by Purchasing Hero Pavers

By Cindy Bruhn
LECLAIRE, Iowa. In dedication to the men and women who have so bravely served our country with unbelievable strength and courage, the surroundings of the Scott County Freedom Rock are acting as a memorial to soldiers, firefighters, police officers and emergency responders. "Hero Pavers" will encircle the Freedom Rock and act as a lasting legacy of your loved one.
The Freedom Rock of Scott County is proudly located on the beautiful Levee in LeClaire, Iowa. The magnificent stone displays a long lasting patriotic tribute to all of those in our communities that volunteer their lives in keeping this country free. Your donations will help to carry out this great honor. The Hero Pavers will be installed around the rock and can be purchased for a veteran, policeman, fire fighter, or EMT - our heroes.
The Freedom Rock Tour, created by the artist of The Freedom Rock, Ray "Bubba" Sorensen II, aims to spread the message of thanking our heroes while providing a unique monument to each of the 99 counties in the great state of Iowa.
Please go to http://www.freedomrockscottcountyiowa.com/ to order your Hero Paver today. Dedication can be three lines, up to 13 characters on each line. The cost is only $50. Pay online or send payment to: Freedom Rock - Scott County, c/o Blackhawk Bank & Trust, 323 South 2nd Street, PO Box 748, LeClaire, IA 52753.
Paver installation will be completed by Memorial Day, May 25, 2015, so orders must be received by May 15, 2015.
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13 Apr 2015

First Annual LeClaire Wine Hop, Saturday, April 18, 2015

By Cindy Bruhn
LECLAIRE, Iowa
Head to LeClaire, Iowa for a fun evening of sippin', shoppin', & hoppin' on Saturday, April 18 from 4-6pm at the First Annual LeClaire Wine Hop! Gather up your friends and come on out to sample local fare all while shopping at your favorite downtown shops and boutiques! Wine tasting, small bites, live music, shopping, and more - all in Downtown LeClaire! Start at the LeClaire Information Center (122 N. Cody Road) to purchase your Wine Hop commemorative wine glass for $20.
Proceeds will benefit the Christmas in LeClaire event. Must be 21 to participate and valid ID will be required. No advance ticket sales. Find a full list of upcoming events at www.visitleclaire.com/events.html
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13 Apr 2015

Jazzercise Celebration News Release

By Cindy Bruhn

Jazzercise Instructor Celebrates 30 years of teaching!

WHAT:  Celebrating 30+ years of Jazzercise in the Quad Cities and Emma Stader's 30th anniversary as an instructor!

WHEN:  Saturday, April 18, 2015.  Class begins at 8:30am.

WHERE:  Our Savior Lutheran Church, 3775 Middle Road, Bettendorf (up the street from Whitey's)

Cost:  Free! Please bring canned goods for the local food pantry.  Jazzercise wants to give back to the community!

Come dance to songs from the 80's, 90's, and the present.  See how our attire has changed over the years, too. Enjoy snacks and door prizes.

All Jazzercise classes will be cancelled at the Bettendorf and East Moline Centers on April 18.

http://jcls.jazzercise.com/facility/jazzercise-bettendorf-fitness-center

http://jcls.jazzercise.com/facility/jazzercise-east-moline-fitness-center

04 Mar 2015

Big Quad Cities' Brands Join For A Unique Partnership

By Cindy Bruhn
Rock Island, IL, March 4, 2015 - There are not many flavors more quintessential to the Quad Cities than Boetje's Mustard.  Now with the help of a local distillery, this classic is getting a new twist.  This Friday, Boetje's and Mississippi River Distilling Company will take the wraps off of their new collaboration.  "Boetje's Bourbon Barrel Aged Mustard" has soaked for over a month in used Cody Road Bourbon casks.
"We were looking for ways to put a new twist on an old favorite."  said Boetje's production manager Harrison Kropp.  "We saw some interesting barrel aged mustards at the World-Wide Mustard Competition in Wisconsin last year.  So we thought it would be great to give it a try with Boetje's."
Ryan Burchett, owner and distiller at Mississippi River Distilling Company, said he didn't have to think twice about the project.  "It was a total no-brainer for us.  We were humbled to have such an established brand like Boetje's reach out to us for something like this.  It's an honor to have our name on the same label as one of our all time favorites."
The distillery gave Kropp some oak whiskey casks that had been used to age Cody Road Bourbon Whiskey.  After soaking for more than 30 days in the barrel, the mustard is ground and prepared for sale.  "It brings a unique sweetness to our mustard along with the signature Boetje's punch." added Kropp.  "I think this one is going to be a big hit once the grills start firing up."
"Our brand is all about being local." said Burchett.  "Cody Road Bourbon is made from grain sourced directly from local farmers within 25 miles of our distillery.  So to find a new local partner to do something totally different like this is a ton of fun for us."
The mustard is being made in small batches.  Initially it will only be available at the gift shops at Boetje's and Mississippi River Distilling Company.  Boetje's representatives will be at the distillery Friday night from 5:30 to 8 PM for the monthly "First Friday" celebration in LeClaire.  They will have the mustard for sale along with free samples of the new spicy treat.
Mississippi River Distilling will also be introducing a new limited edition whiskey collaboration with Great River Brewing in Davenport that evening.  Farmer Brown Whiskey was made by distilling the alcohol out of over 3,000 gallons of Farmer Brown Ale from the local brewery.  This whiskey will be available for a short time at the distillery and through local retailers around Iowa and Illinois.
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16 Jan 2015

Bald Eagle presentation and eagle watching tips - this Sunday

By Cindy Bruhn
Sunday, January 18: Learn about the area's bald eagles at the Medic EMS building, 107 N. Cody Road, LeClaire, Iowa. At 1:30pm, wildlife photographer, Burt Gearhart, will give an all-ages slide presentation and lecture that will reveal many interesting discoveries about Bald Eagles and their everyday lives in Iowa. See eagles diving for fish, eating while flying, flying with icicles on their toes and much more. Learn to distinguish between immature and mature eagles, what they eat, and why they winter in the area. Attendees will learn about this incredible wildlife opportunity to view and photograph the annual winter gathering of Bald Eagles along the Mississippi River north and south of LeClaire.
At the conclusion of the presentation, at approximately 3pm, join Burt at Lock & Dam 14 to view and photograph the Eagles of LeClaire.
Burt's prints that celebrate Bald Eagles, the Mississippi River, and the historic beauty of LeClaire will also be on display. This program is free and open to the public.
Also that day, The Faithful Pilot Café and Spirits will be open noon-5pm for lunch with a great view of the bald eagles soaring above. Isabel Bloom will have a drawing for a free Eagle sculpture. Bierstube's Bald Eagle Day special on January 18 is 10% off your bill, excluding alcohol.
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