15 Apr 2011

DUCK CREEK RESTORATION PROJECT UNDERWAY NEAR DAVENPORT/BETTENDORF BORDER

By Ron Summers

Starting on Wednesday April 13, 3011, work will begin on the Duck Creek stream bank located near the Kimberly Road Bridge. This stream-bank restoration project will temporarily affect Duck Creek Golf Course on hole #8, and the Duck Creek Trail between Quad City Radio Group and the Kimberly Road Bridge. Work should only take a few days to complete.

The City of Davenport is committed to keeping the Duck Creek stream and trail system in top condition. This project is needed to restore parts of the stream bed bank, and should only result in a minor inconvenience for a few days. Duck Creek Trail will remain open throughout the project. The project will not effect bikers, walkers or runners using Duck Creek Trail.

12 Apr 2011

EPA finally exempts milk from oil regs

By Grassley Press
Tuesday, April 12, 2011 

Senator Chuck Grassley released the following comment after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) formally exempted milk and milk product containers from the Oil Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure Rule that is intended to prevent oil from discharging into U.S. waterways.  Grassley was a cosponsor of legislation to expedite a decision by the EPA to exempt milk containers from regulations initially intended for oil spills.

Grassley is also leading an effort to keep the EPA from placing further economic pressure on rural America if the agency chooses to impose more stringent regulations on dust. Here is Grassley's comment on the milk exemption.

"Dairy producers across the country are breathing a sigh of relief.  In an already difficult economic environment, this attempt by the EPA to apply burdensome and unnecessary regulations would have put many of these hard working dairy farmers in an extremely precarious position, and could easily have increased prices for consumers at the grocery store.  To think that milk would be treated the same as oil defies common sense.  The agency seems oblivious to the tremendous impact its rules and regulations have on the general public and agriculture in particular.  I appreciate EPA finally getting the job done and doing the right thing in this instance.  I hope this is a sign that common sense won't take a back seat to ideology in the future."

11 Apr 2011

USDA Announces People's Garden School Pilot Program to Promote Garden-Based Learning Opportunities

By USDA Communications Office

People's Gardens Aim to Provide Nutritious, Safe and Healthier Choices for Children and Communities

WASHINGTON, April 7, 2011 ? Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that Washington State University will develop and run the People's Garden School Pilot Program which will serve an estimated 2,800 students attending 70 elementary schools in Washington, New York, Iowa and Arkansas. The Healthy Gardens, Healthy Youth pilot is an innovative strategy to help our nation win the future through improved K-12 education. It explores the impact of school gardens on learning and on changing student consumption patterns so they make healthier food choices.

"School gardens hold great promise for educating our kids about food production and nutrition," said Vilsack. "Learning where food comes from and what fresh food tastes like, and the pride of growing and serving your own fruits and vegetables, are life-changing experiences. Engaging kids in our efforts to end childhood hunger and curb childhood obesity is critical if we are going to succeed."

The $1 million pilot program is authorized under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act. The schools selected to participate in this pilot come from urban, suburban, and rural communities and have at least 50 percent of their students qualified to receive free or reduced-price school meals The initiative is part of a the USDA People's Garden Initiative which establishes community and school gardens across the nation to help unite neighborhoods in a common effort and inspire simple solutions to challenges facing our country - from hunger to the environment. The announcement comes as First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! initiative celebrates National Gardening Month (April).

"Washington State University is a leader when it comes to gardening and garden-based learning, and this important pilot program will make a significant contribution to the development of national models," said Kevin Concannon, USDA Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services. "This program moves us toward our goal of improving the health and nutrition of our kids and communities, and instilling healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime."

USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) oversees the administration of 15 nutrition assistance programs that touch the lives of one in four Americans over the course of a year. Visit www.fns.usda.gov for information about FNS and nutrition assistance programs.

28 Mar 2011

Living Lands & Waters Receives National Honor

By Chad Pregracke

Dear Friends,

Earlier this week, I received the biggest honor I've ever received. On Monday, March 21, I was recognized at the Points of Light Institute's "All Together Now" celebration in Washington, DC?an event honoring President George H. W. Bush for his visionary leadership in the American service movement, as well as other outstanding leaders who share his mission

I was highlighted in a five minute video for my service work. President Jimmy Carter narrated the video and introduced me after the video played. I was able to say a few brief words which earned me a standing ovation from the entire audience which included four former presidents -- William J. Clinton, Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush and their families. Also in attendance was a star-studded lineup that included Brad Paisley, Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, Kid Rock, Darius Rucker, and Carrie Underwood.

I believe this is the first time all four former presidents were together for an event since the inauguration of President Obama. This evening was a very positive and unique way to celebrate voluntary service.

I would have never had this opportunity and honor without your support.  I thank you very much for your continued support which is why LL&W is able to continue its mission to help clean America's rivers.

"All Together Now: A Celebration of Service" will air on Monday, March 28, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. (CST) on NBC. I'm not sure if I will make the cut, but it is a program worth watching.

Best Regards,

Chad Pregracke

March 25, 2011

28 Mar 2011

Sandbag Tips from the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes

By Trenise Lyons

In advance of possible floods in Davenport, the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, Inc. - FLASH offers the following tips for homeowners and business owners using sandbags to protect their property.  Sandbags can be useful in redirecting storm water and debris flows away from your home. But be sure that the sandbags are properly filled and maintained. Here's how:

  • Fill sandbags one-half full. Use sand if readily available, otherwise use soil.
  • Fold the top of the sandbag down and set the bag on its folded top. Take care in stacking the sandbags. Tamp each sandbag into place, completing each layer before you begin a new layer.
  • Keep a clear path between buildings for to allow for debris to flow through.
  • Limit placement of bags to three layers unless place against the side of a building.
  • If bags are placed against a building, place a sheet of plastic between the building and the bags.  This will control the flow and prevent water from seeping into doors.  ?

There are limits to what sandbags can do and once they are used, you will want to take special precautions.  A few reminders:

  • Sandbags deteriorate when exposed to continued wetting and drying for several months.
  • Sandbags are for small water flow protection -- up to two feet.
  • Be sure to consult with your local environmental protection department before disposing of used sandbags.  Sandbags that are exposed to contaminated floodwaters may pose an environmental hazard and require special handling.

For more information about flood safety, home mitigation and recovery information visit www.flash.org.  Flood resources include :

You can also visit www.youtube.com/stronghomes to view a library of animated short videos on safety and prevention techniques for floods and many other types of disasters.   FLASH's consumer resources are backed by free advice from a team of experts available toll-free at (877) 221-SAFE.

28 Mar 2011

Governor Quinn Encourages Participation in Earth Hour 2011

By Andrew Mason
State of Illinois Buildings to Go Dark to Support International Effort

CHICAGO - March 25, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today called on homes and businesses throughout Illinois to participate in Earth Hour 2011, an international effort to encourage responsible energy practices by turning off non-essential lights for one hour during the last weekend of March.

"Protecting our environment today and for future generations is one of my top priorities," said Governor Quinn. "By turning out our lights for an hour on March 26, the people of Illinois will show their continued commitment to commonsense, sustainable energy practices."

The state of Illinois will participate in Earth Day by turning out the lights in the Executive Mansion in Springfield and the James R. Thompson Center and Michael A. Bilandic Building in Chicago from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 26th.

These actions coincide with other famous landmarks around the world also going dark, including Chicago's Willis Tower, Field Museum, Navy Pier and Wrigley Building.

Earth Day was first organized by the World Wildlife Fund in 2007 to support efforts to reduce light pollution, energy waste and climate change and has since gained hundreds of millions of participants around the world. For more information about Earth Hour 2011 and Illinois' other environmental initiatives, visit www.worldwildlife.org and www.green.Illinois.gov.

###

24 Mar 2011

Severe Weather Has Begun Across the Country

By Missy Lundberg

March 22, 2011–Spring has arrived, and with it comes severe weather. Already this month State Farm has dispatched national catastrophe services teams across the country to assist local State Farm agents and claims personnel in accessing wind and hail damage.

The first wind and rain event of the season resulted in more than 10,000 claims across the country.

See how Illinois compares to others when it comes to most common insurance claims.

There isn`t a community in the nation that is immune to severe weather, but being prepared for spring storms can help you weather the inevitable.

Before severe weather strikes your neighborhood take some time to prepare:

·       Organize an evacuation plan and establish an emergency meeting place should your family get separated.

·       Make an emergency storm kit including a transistor radio, flashlight, batteries and simple first-aid items in a waterproof container.

·       Protect your property with a home inventory. An accurate inventory and proof of ownership at the time of loss can make claim settlement easier and faster.

·       Check to make sure your insurance coverage is up-to-date. Schedule time with your agent to discuss your insurance needs.

When severe weather rolls in, monitor the radio for weather updates. If you are instructed to evacuate, go to a shelter as directed by local authorities.

15 Mar 2011

Wapsi River Environmental Education Center News

By Lisa Gerwulf

Green Kids Workshops
March 14th - 18th, 2011

10 A.M. - Noon ~ Ages 4 & Up 

Facilitated by: Lisa Gerwulf, Assistant Naturalist

Wapsi River Environmental Education Center

Monday 3/14 - Flower Power!

This project utilizes normally discarded cardboard in various forms (egg cartons, paper towel/toilet tubes) to create life-like flowers.  Due to the time needed for paint to dry before assemblage, a separate activity of using plastic bottle bottoms as stamps to create a flower mosaic on paper or acetate sheets is part of this activity and keeps with the flower theme.

Tuesday 3/15 - Signs of Spring

Egg Carton Greenhouse ~ This project utilizes 8-holes of a cardboard egg carton as seed starter pots that can then be planted directly into a garden come springtime.  The addition of a clear, plastic bag creates an almost terrarium-like environment allowing for minimal care.  The project becomes its own science fair project by visually showcasing the water cycle concepts of evaporation, condensation and transpiration.

Owl Scarecrow ~ This project utilizes the left-over, 4-holes of the egg cartons used above by creating an owl face that is then wrapped in aluminum foil (weatherproofing), embellished with yellow plastic tops and black buttons, and then glued to an aluminum pie plate.  Once completed and hung in the garden from a chain of pop bottle plastic rings, the owl acts much in the same way as a traditional scarecrow does - to scare away would-be vegetable nibblers.

Wednesday 3/16 - Games Galore

Tangram ~ This project puts a modern twist on an ancient Chinese game.  Storytelling is an important part of Asian culture and tangrams play a part by providing a tool for illustration.  The use of various math concepts are just part of creating the puzzle and participants of all ages can grasp them.


Tic-Tac-Toe ~ This project utilizes various cardboard and plastic elements to create a old, family favorite.  A cleverly converted entrée box creates convenient storage to make this game vary portable. 

Thursday 3/17 - Heavy Metal Belt

This project utilizes pop can tabs and "plarn" (plastic yarn) to create a belt of retro and Art Nuevo styling.

Friday 3/18 - A Tisket, A Tasket, a Recycled Trinket Basket

This project utilizes a plastic pop bottle bottom as the base for the basket.  Then uses "plarn" (plastic yarn) and pop can tabs to create a decorative edge around the top.

Studio and materials fee:  $5 per workshop per child
(All participants will receive one free pass for "drop in art" and a mini playkit!
Must be registered by 2 P.M. one day in advance of each workshop.  Limit 25 per class.

Register by calling: (563) 289-3946 or email: Angie@reusableusables.org

Reusable Usables Creative Arts Center
322 N Cody
LeClaire, IA  52753

www.reusableusables.org

Recycled Stitches Program Planned

On Saturday, March 19th at 2:00 P.M. the Wapsi River Environmental Education Center will host a recycled stitches program.  Come join naturalist Lisa Gerwulf as she shows you how to create a uniquely versatile yarn from recycled plastic bags.  "Plarn" (plastic yarn) is not a new fad, but rather a frugal technique reminiscent of the Depression Era.  Participants will learn about the plastic industry, plastic's waste-to-energy potential, as well as how to create two versions of "yarn" out of recycled shopping/grocery bags.  Knitted, crocheted, woven, braided and corded items will also be on display.  Those interested need not be fancywork experts to enjoy this program.  Each participant needs to bring 5 plastic shopping/grocery bags and a pair of sharp scissors.  If you have access to a quilting tool called a rotary cutter and mat, consider bringing these.  Pre-registration is required, by calling (563) 328-3286 to reserve your spot.

The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center can be found 6 miles south of Wheatland or 1 mile northwest of Dixon, Iowa by taking County Road Y4E.  Then turn north at 52nd Avenue and follow the signs for about 1 mile.

 

14 Mar 2011

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers preparing for spring rains and snowmelt

By Ron Fournier

ROCK ISLAND, Ill. - Spring rains and the spring thaw are just around the corner and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, is ready to assist Midwest communities with sandbags, plastic sheeting, pumps and engineering expertise.

Preparations for potential spring flooding have begun in communities along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers and their tributaries.  The Rock Island District is also preparing its team of flood area engineers to provide flood-fighting technical support and is ensuring flood-fight supplies are stocked and available to communities throughout the upper Midwest.

In preparation for spring flooding the District has reviewed and updated its flood response plan and is assisting local and county agencies with updating their flood plans.  This month, approximately 50 specially trained Corps' flood area engineers are receiving refresher training and flood-assistance teams are being re-structured to provide flood-fighting assistance to communities within the District's 78,000 square-mile area of operations.

Technical expertise is only a part of the District's public assistance.  Flood-fighting supplies are also being procured for distribution to local organizations, cities, counties and states.  The District currently has a stock of approximately 2 million sandbags, 2 thousand rolls of polyethylene sheeting, and 100 pumps ranging in diameter from 4 to 16 inches with the capability of pumping up to 10,000 gallons of water per minute.

To expedite the process of obtaining flood-fight supplies from the Corps, the Rock Island District is coordinating with local, county and state Emergency Operations personnel on the procedures for requesting flood-fight commodities.

The Rock Island District provides flood-fighting assistance and supplies to communities within its 78,000 square-mile area covering the eastern two-thirds of Iowa, the northern half of Illinois and corners of Minnesota, Missouri and Wisconsin.  This area includes 314 miles of the Mississippi River and 268 miles of the Illinois Waterway and their tributaries.  The District is the national supplier of Innovative Flood Fight Products for the Corps of Engineers and the Regional Flood Fight Product Distribution Center for the upper Midwest.

For more information about the District's emergency response activities, visit us on the web @: http://www.mvr.usace.army.mil/EmergencyMgt/

14 Mar 2011

Volunteers Needed to Wrap Trees for LL&W's MillionTrees Project

By Dr. Jeffrey Bassman

East Moline, IL/March 1, 2011 - Chad Pregracke's Quad Cities-based environmental group needs volunteers to help in a project to improve the future of area waterways.  Living Lands & Waters, an East Moline, Illinois non-profit organization is planning to distribute 100,000 free oak tree saplings in April as part of LL&W's "MillionTrees Project."  The goal of the project is to improve the health of rivers in the Midwest, by re-establishing hardwoods that have been depleted by over-harvesting, flooding and disease.

Volunteers, including families with children, are invited to take part in tree wrapping events being held throughout March. "Wrapping 100,000 trees takes a lot of work" said Chad Pregracke, founder and President of Living Lands & Waters.  Pregracke adds, "It's a great venue to help the community and educate people on why trees are important."

Trees provide shelter and nut-bearing hardwoods are a viable food source for wildlife and migratory birds.  Slow-growing hardwoods like oaks have a harder time re-establishing themselves without help, and are often crowded out by faster growing species, like cottonwoods, willow and silver maples. Re-establishing hardwoods help increase biodiversity, reduce erosion and run-off and improve water and air quality.

Individual registration is not required, but strongly encouraged.  Groups of 5 or more must pre-register.   Volunteers can stay for an hour or all day.  For questions or to register, please contact Ashley Stover at Ashley@livinglandsandwaters.org or at 309.737.5913.

Tree wrapping events will occur at the following places and locations:

QCCA Expo Center, Rock Island:

Saturday, March 19   8am - 4pm

-Sunday, March 20     8am - 4pm

-Monday, March 21   11am - 8pm

-Tuesday, March 22   11am - 8pm

Volunteers should show up at the North Hall of the QCCA Expo Center, 2621 4th Avenue, Rock Island.

LL&W Headquarters@ (17624 Rte. 84 N, East Moline, IL)

-March 1-5, 8am - 5pm                                              -March 14-17, 8am - 5pm                           

- March 7-12, 8am - 5pm                                           -March 28 - April 2,  8am - 5pm

Volunteers will be asked to help with the following:  bundling trees in newspaper, placing trees in bags, tying, tagging, or organizing them.  Participating children MUST be supervised.  Volunteers are asked to wear warm and comfortable clothes that can get dirty.

Trees will be distributed in April to individuals, families, agencies, business and organizations throughout the Midwest.  The saplings will also be distributed to the general public during the QCCA Lawn and Garden Show, March 25-27th on a first come, first served basis. The goal of the MillionTrees Project is to grow and plant 1 MILLION trees.

Anyone interested in volunteering or reserving free oak saplings for planting may contact MillionTrees Project Coordinator, Ashley Stover at Ashley@livinglandsandwaters.org or at 309.737.5913. More information on the MillionTrees Project can be found at www.livinglandsandwaters.org/milliontrees.

 

###

Pages

Subscribe & Listen to Reader Podcasts

On Stands Now

 

Tagged Content

Two Ways to Subscribe

1. Subscribe to free weekly e-mail content updates.

You'll get both the current official narrative challenge and What's Happenin' in the Quad Cities.
(Did you know we publish a new Amy Alkon Advice Goddess, Real Astrology, Red Meat cartoon and RCR Crossword every week?) 

* indicates required

View previous campaigns.

2. Get 12 monthly issues mailed first class for $48

Get 12 issues mailed monthly for $48 per year.

Get the printed Reader edition mailed to you (or anyone you want) first-class for 12 months for $48.
$24 goes to postage and handling, $24 goes to keeping the doors open!

Click this link to Subscribe now.