30 Nov 2012

Fun family activities for December

By Ron Summers
Vander Veer Holiday Show

Vander Veer Botanical Park Conservatory presents it's annual Holiday Floral Show! With thousands of poinsettias and many lighted evergreens it's sure to get you in the holiday mood. It's also a great setting for a Christmas family photo too!  While there check out all the new merchandise is our Conservatory store!

Show Dates: December 1st through January 12th

The conservatory is open

Tuesday - Friday: 10am - 4pm

Saturday: 10am -  8pm

Sunday: 10am - 4pm

Admission is only $1, free for kids 16 and under

Vander Veer Botanical Park 215 W Central Park

Thanks to our sponsors:
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At The River's Edge

Public Skate times this weekend at The River's Edge:
Friday, November 30
11:00am - 1:00pm &
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Saturday, December 1
2:45pm - 4:45pm
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Don't forget our indoor golf range is now open! A large bucket of balls is only
$5, and hours are generally:
Mon - Fri, 7:00am - 3:00pm
Call The River's Edge at 563-328-PARK (7275) for more information.
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Holiday Soccer Tournament

The Indoor Youth Soccer Tournament will be a round robin format and the top two point scorers play the Championship Game!  Maximum of 15 players per team.  4 games guaranteed.

Sunday, December 30
Fee: $225.00
Times TBD
The River's Edge
Click here for more information or to register your team [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001DwxTvno8MT5reHasfqt87IclUDAyHt3qdIozFn1a3naTSGSZnxnmgO2O3pMepKTySP21yfnusCu7Pdg607x49ykYPXBEB1AQ5FOxMpZseOtPD1PuKvsP0GYqgqrgBnxQ_jq0glBexXjjZoJALCZADxQ_nclwNpLhAh2DT40pY_CsDwyh55FjVDbJsELczrDVZlqDoDBld3U=]
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Roosevelt Holiday
Fun Day

The Roosevelt Community Partnership is excited to bring back their FREE holiday event! Join us for an afternoon of fun ending with a visit with Santa and a holiday focused movie. The holiday fun will take place on:

Saturday, December 15th
10 am - 2 pm
Roosevelt Community Center,
1220 Minnie Ave., Davenport
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Senior Coffee

Come enjoy the sights, sounds, and fragrance of the Conservatory at Vander Veer Botanical Park.  Our theme this month is Poinsettia & Lights.

Fee: $1.00
Wednesday, December 12
10:00am - 12:00pm
Vander Veer Conservatory
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Winter Session
 
Be sure to sign-up for all the great Parks and Recreation winter programs!  Our Winter Session begins the week of January 7.  Don't delay, enroll today!

Click here to access our online catalog and registration [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001DwxTvno8MT4VSwq31b-qLY6xnnSTqLAhaJ5beUynbq7ZyWdYqL-H44NLLxhrBzMexCTwIP7cLF1F9mVntvQD--UIW0W4dhlRoXFnUPPG1OVLya2IjXoWidHh9RxJdO_l]
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Davenport Parks and RecreationNewsletter

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Skate with Santa

Enjoy some festive fun and skate with jolly ole' Saint Nick.  Standard Public Session rates apply - Photos just $1.00!  Free cookies and hot cocoa for all skaters.  Photos taken during the 30 minutes prior to and after the skate.

Saturday, 12/22, 1:45pm - 3:45pm
Photo Fee: $1.00, Skate Admission: $5.00, Skate Rental: $3.00

The River's Edge, 700 W River Drive
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Great Gift Ideas
Looking for a unique recreational gift? We have Golf Gift Cards and Parks and Recreation Gift Cards available at the River's Edge. We're open 6am - 10pm seven days a week for your shopping convenience.
Our Golf Card is available in any denomination and good at Duck Creek, Emeis or Red Hawk.
Our Parks and Recreation Gift Card can be used for any of our many recreationa programs including:

* Performing Arts
* Nature and Garden
* Camps
* Aquatics
* Sports or wellness
* Youth programs
* Lifelong learning course
* And more!
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Family Friday Nights

Looking for something fun and affordable to do with the whole family on Friday Nights? Well Davenport  Parks and Recreation has the answer for you.  Our Family Friday Night series includes pizza, lemonade and activities (Popcorn also included at Movie Night)!  Best of all, if you register early it is only $2.50 per person ($4.00 per person at the door).

6:00pm - 9:00pm : Fridays

Click here to pre-register [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001DwxTvno8MT7jJljZ39mXHSaFetlVmK9drM1GCxZxwbQ6iXnvjkBYcWDk21FbjQyfVk8bZ2y0buHq2DTmN7dVSCcoxccjA68_09w21ccCvcujuWJqpL493JMeJpLXF3NTLcPJY0MHj9E1w5yhlAin9gBW_9S8lyBJ]

December 7 - Snowshoe Hike : Vander Veer Conservatory

December 14 - Movie Night "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" (live version) : Davenport Junior Theatre

December 21 - Ice Skating : The River's Edge

December 28 - Friday Night Jam : Roosevelt Community Center
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School Out Days
Need something FUN for your kids to do when school is not in session? We have school out days for all ages. Elementary age students can attend either the River's Edge or Roosevelt  Community Center. Days will be filled with playing games, doing crafts,
taking field trips and spending time with friends. Intermediate age students will attend Collins House and days will be focused on exploring future career options and helping engage youth in volunteerism. Program will run from 7:30 am - 5:30 pm. Each student should bring a water bottle and sack lunch, wear socks and gym shoes, and bring warm clothes to skate! Afternoon snacks will be provided.

Click here for more information and to register [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001DwxTvno8MT6HXC2KZU9W3c18YuUWMupLT3lpC_RWHFRPBlioY51Al_U42I0uFDw5rWAB7gz49-kUFIfeVMTdjNkzBg63I2Wz_wI5C08mowmFdDfwkxVrb0KkIfUDxmN9CISkejsGhtu0k4qPxHktRPrNgK5eibLzne8SlSXc1gfLhXVZBW9uK6tCSSDhDarjP5at1gyoVBw=]

School Out Days coming up: December 26, 27, 28, 31.  January 2, 3, 4, 7, 21.
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Advisory Board Vacancy

Davenport Parks and  Recreation Advisory Board seeks to fill vacant board positions. We are requesting applications to  fill three Board vacancies. Applicants that possess one or more of the following  qualifications will be strongly considered:

·Civic-minded

·Possesses interest and commitment  to help shape the vision for the future of the City of Davenport

·Can represent their assigned ward,  or residential area

Board member applications are  evaluated by current board members and applicants will be notified of their  decision by January 15, 2012. Newly selected Board members will serve two-year  terms. The Parks and  Recreation Board members meet bi-weekly
for one hour.

Members of ice-sports, soccer,  ethnic and youth groups are highly encouraged to apply.

Please contact the Advisory Board  Liaison Manisha Paudel at 563-888-3107 or email mpaudel@ci.davenport.ia.us to apply or for questions regarding  the vacancy. This membership is voluntary.
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Davenport Junior Theater & School of Dance

DJT is one of our most popular programs!  Don't wait until January to register or your class will be full!  We have Dance and Theatre classes for kids ages 3 - 18. Theatre classes include Acting, Improv, Broadway, Creative Theatre Fun (3-4 year olds), and more!  Dance classes include Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Poms Dance Team and Lyrical.  Classes begin the week of January, 7.  For more information, visit the DJT website at

or call 563-326-7862 or 563-328-PARK (7275).
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Adaptive and Inclusive Programs
The programs below provide recreation opportunities for person with special needs, including those with physical, mental or emotional disabilities.  Adaptive and Inclusive programs are offered in structured, success-oriented environments in the areas of
sports and fitness, arts, independent living skills, social activities and special events.
Bowling Tournament

Come put on your bowling shoes and show off your skills at the People 1st Bowling Tournament on December 11, 2012 at 1:00pm at Miller Time Bowling!  Prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places.  Pre-registration is required.  Fee includes bowling and shoe rental.

12/11   Fee: $10.00   Tues. 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Miller Time Bowling New Year's Bash

Come ring in the New Years with Davenport Parks and Recreation for their New Year's Party!  Dancing, hats and noisemakers will be provided and will be required for our own dropping of the New Year's ball!  Light refreshments will be provided. No Scholarships available.

12/28   Fee: $4.00   Fri 11:00am - 1:00pm
Credit Island Lodge

Dinner Theater at Comedy Sportz

Join us for good food and laughter at our interactive dinner party on Monday December 10th at The Establishment Theatre 220 19th Street Rock Island, IL. Dinner will be served at 6 pm the show will follow. There is a $10 fee, no scholarships are available.

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16 Nov 2012

What's happening this weekend in the City of Davenport!

By Davenport Parks & Recreation

Our gift certificates make the perfect holiday gift!

We understand the challenge of finding a unique and thoughtful gift.
Consider Davenport Parks and Recreation and Davenport Public Golf Course Gift  Certificates
for the Holiday season!
Our gift certificates are good for golf, camps, classes, family activities and more!
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Don't Miss Out!

Winter Session Soccer League Registration is NOW OPEN!
Winter Session begins
January 6th, 2013.
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Public skating at the River's Edge


*
Friday, November 16th

* 7:00pm - 9:00pm
*
Saturday, November 17th

* 3:30pm-5:30pm (Turkey Bowling)
*
Sunday, November 18th

* 4:30pm - 6:15pm
Turkey Bowling:
Saturday, November 17 (3:30-5:30pm)
Join us for a night of public skate and Turkey Bowling on the ice at the River's
Edge!
Prizes awarded to bowlers! (Standard public session rates apply---Bowling is an
additional $2).
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Please Note!
The Family Friday Night scheduled for November 16th at Red Hawk is cancelled.
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Holiday Closing Reminder:
The River's Edge and all Parks and Recreation Administration Offices
will be closed on November 22nd in observance of the holiday.
We wish you and your family a happy Thanksgiving!

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Black Friday Fun at the River's Edge
Skating

River's Edge is open on Friday, 23rd
Public Skate  Offerings:


* 11:00am - 1:00pm
* 2:00pm - 4:00pm
* 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Black Friday School Out Day:

Need a chance to shop for some holiday surprises? The River's Edge is hosting a
school-out day on November 23rd-- perfect for working parents (or parents who just
want to get some shopping done), our school out days consist of fun activities,
field trips, friendship and a structured, safe environment. Call (563) 328-7275
to sign up.  $20/Day.
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Register now for the High School Shootout!
16 Nov 2012

Unique Martial Arts Experience for Local Students

By Brittany Marietta

Unique class, unique instructor, unique experience - oh, my!  See attached flyer for photos and details.

 

For photo opportunities and/or to interview Dominic Velando and students, contact Brittany Marietta at (563) 359-1366 ext. 308 or marietta@rvmt.org.

 

What: Martial Arts Class at Rivermont Collegiate

Who: Instructor Dominic Velando, Students 3rd- 4th Grade

When: Tuesdays & Wednesdays, Nov. 7th - Dec. 19th - 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Dominic Velando:

· Teaching experience in Karate, Boxing, Muay Thai (kickboxing), Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Arnis (sword fighting)

· Brown Belt in Karate

· Third Degree Black Belt in Arnis (sword fighting)

 

Class touches on Karate, Boxing, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Arnis (sword fighting), but with a focus on sword fighting.  Students' swords are made of flexible PVC pipe with a soft, foam insulation cover - similar to Star Wars light sabers!


06 Nov 2012

Indoor Golf Range at River's Edge is now open

By Davenport Parks and Recreation

Try it out on Monday!

Just in time for colder weather, our indoor golf range at the River's Edge is now
open. Keep in shape by practicing your swing all winter long! A large bucket of
balls is only $5, a small bucket is only $3. Hours are generally:

Monday through Friday

7:30am - 3:30pm

Sorry, due to soccer games, the range in NOT open on weekends.

The golf range will close early on School Out days. The hours will be 7:30am - 11:30am
on those days. The following dates in November will be effected:

November 6, 12, 21

7:30am - 11:30am

Check our turf schedule online (click here [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001BR5y3yofU_BciWVWCjIDz3DaZ6_7wlgXxD8rLytX22WzneG2tFzClrd2pqevx8wNjQPKe-NcWJUDFy3kMPfC3ocfWsyoB0yWUU8oMAq03luInOKAy4ACGFybdt6GYFxKsU-FBYx9jtyzayBsBFODdw==])
for any closures in the coming months, orcall our Front Desk at 563-328-PARK to
confirm opening and closing times for the day.

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Time to load your Player Card for next spring with a 20% bonus special!

Our re-loadable Player Card, which can be used for green fees and cart fees, has
been popular for it's 10% bonus. Load the card in multiples of $100, and get an
extra 10%.  But now, through November 15, 2012, get 20% added to your Player Card
instead of 10%! What a great way to be ready for golf next spring!

Just come down to the Parks and Recreation office at the River's Edge to buy your
Player Card or to re-load your existing one. River's Edge is open 6am - 10pm, 7
days a week for your convenience. So it's worth coming down to get a 20% bonus of
golf in Davenport.

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Red Hawk Lodge is the perfect place for a holiday or football party!

This beautiful remodeled space has multiple TV's, a kitchen, and seating for 80
people. Set up can be customized for renter. The space is also great for that football
party or holiday party that you've wanted to book, but couldn't find a place with
a great price.  Well, Red Lodge is the place you've been looking for!

Rental rate is $150 for 4 hours; $20 each additional hour.

There is also a $150 refundable damage deposit.

An additional room can be added for larger parties for only an extra $50.

Available beginning November 12, 2012 through March 31, 2013.

To check availability and to book, come to the Parks and Recreation office at the
River's Edge, 700 W River Drive. We're open 6am to 10pm every day of the week for
your convenience!

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Golf Phone numbers:
Emeis Golf Course: 563-326-7825
Duck Creek Golf Course: 563-326-7824
Red Hawk Golf & Learning Center: 563-386-0348
www.golfdavenport.com [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=hqhfkdlab.0.7xqgulgab.yc9hayeab.3527&ts=S0839&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.golfdavenport.com]
29 Oct 2012

PLAUTZ LEADS NATIONAL GUARD FLW WALLEYE TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP ON MISSISSIPPI RIVER

By Joe Opager
Wisconsin's Erdmann Leads Co-Anglers
DAVENPORT, Iowa (Oct. 25, 2012) - Forty-two of the top walleye pros in the world began their four-day competition for a top cash award of $100,000, the richest prize in walleye fishing, at the National Guard FLW Walleye Championship on the Mississippi River on Thursday.
National Guard FLW Walleye Tour pro Danny Plautz of Madison, Wis., and co-angler Anthony Erdmann of Watertown, Wis., weighed in the day's only five-walleye limit at 8 pounds, 14 ounces to jump to the top of the day one leader boards in their respective divisions. The duo now holds a slim 1-pound, 13-ounce lead over pro Ted Takasaki of Sioux Falls, S.D., and co-angler Tom Wiehoff of Pierre, S.D., who caught three walleye weighing 7-1.
"I had one spot where I caught my fish today," said Plautz, who already has two top-10 tournament finishes in the 2012 season. "I stuck it out all day long and was lucky to pull out five fish. It's an area that I found on my first day of practice. I caught a couple of fish and left it, and hadn't been back since."
While most tournament competitors decided to make the long run through the locking systems to fish in pool 14, known for having a better walleye population, Plautz decided to look for areas closer to the takeoff marina to maximize his fishing time.
"I'm staying in pool 16," said Plautz. "The area that I'm fishing is pretty big, but I've really keyed in on one little spot that is paying off for me. There are a couple of other boats in the area, but they don't really bother me. I've got the right baits.
"I'm casting crankbaits, but the specifics definitely mattered," Plautz continued. "I don't want to discuss what types or colors I'm using, but I will say I'm fishing shallow. And the current is definitely playing a role in how I'm catching my fish.
"I'm one of the first boats to launch tomorrow, so I'm confident that I can get back to my area first," Plautz said. "I knew that I would catch a couple of fish out of there today, but I really didn't expect to catch a limit. I know there's still fish in the area, though, and I'll be happy if I can get a couple of more fish tomorrow. I'm just going to fish hard the next couple of days and do the best that I can."
The top 10 pros and co-anglers after day one on the Mississippi River are:
1st:     Danny Plautz, Madison, Wis., and Anthony Erdmann, Watertown, Wis., five walleyes, 8-14
2nd:    Ted Takasaki, Sioux Falls, S.D., and Tom Wiehoff, Pierre, S.D., three walleyes, 7-1
3rd:     Kevin McQuoid, Isle, Minn., and Col. Scott St. Sauver, Little Falls, Minn., four walleyes, 6-5
4th:     Gary Parsons, Glidden, Wis., and Dale Janota, Gillette, Wyo., three walleyes, 5-7
4th:     Chevy pro Jason Przekurat, Stevens Point, Wis., and Randy Hummel, Jackson, Minn, two walleyes, 5-7
6th:     Dusty Minke, Forest Lake, Minn., and Tyrone Larson, Amherst, Wis., three walleyes, 5-0
7th:     Todd Zemke, Red Wing, Minn., and Chris Augustyn, Holdredge, Mich., two walleyes, 4-6
8th:     Ryan Jirik, Rhinelander, Wis., and MSG. Leroy McCoy, Fridley, Minn., three walleyes, 4-3
9th:     Eric Olson, Red Wing, Minn., and Steve Beasley, Macomb, Mich., two walleyes, 4-2
10th:   National Guard pro Mark Courts, Harris, Minn., and Bruce Frevert, Centerville, Iowa, two walleyes, 3-11
For a full list of results visit FLWOutdoors.com.
Overall there were 54 walleyes weighing 101 pounds, 2 ounces caught by 42 boats Thursday. Plautz and Erdmann had the only five-walleye limit of the day.
Anglers will take off from the Centennial Park Launch located at 315 S. Marquette St. in Davenport, Iowa at 7:30 a.m. each morning. Weigh-ins will be held at the River Center located at 136 E. 3rd St. in Davenport beginning at 4 p.m. daily.
In celebration of the festivities, Davenport, Iowa, mayor Bill Gluba and the Davenport City Council proclaimed the week of October 22-28 as FLW National Guard Walleye Championship Week.
The NPAA will be offering a free Youth and Family Fishing Clinic on Friday after the weigh-in beginning at 7 p.m. Prizes, including rods & reels, will be given away after the clinic. Fans will also be treated to the FLW Expo at the River Center on Saturday and Sunday from noon-4 p.m. prior to the weigh-ins. The Expo includes Ranger boat simulators, the opportunity to interact with professional anglers, enjoy interactive games, activities and giveaways provided by sponsors, and fans can learn more about the sport of fishing and other outdoor activities. All activities are free and open to the public. On Sunday the first 300 children 14 and under who are accompanied by an adult will receive a free rod and reel combo courtesy of the Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau/Quad Cities Sports Commission. Also on Sunday one lucky fishing fan will win a $500 Walmart gift card. The gift card giveaway is free to enter but the winner must be present at the conclusion of Sunday's final weigh-in to win.
Coverage of the National Guard FLW Walleye Tour Championship will be broadcast in high-definition (HD) on NBC Sports Network when "FLW" airs Dec. 2 from 1-2 p.m. ET. "FLW" is hosted by Chip Leer and is broadcast to more than 559 million households worldwide, making it the most widely distributed weekly outdoors-sports television show in the world.
For complete details and updated information visit FLWOutdoors.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.
ABOUT FLW
FLW is the industry's premier tournament-fishing organization, providing unparalleled fishing resources and entertainment to our sponsors, fans and host communities. FLW is offering anglers of all skill levels the opportunity to compete for millions in prize money nationwide in 2012 over the course of 191 tournaments across five tournament circuits, each providing an avenue to the sport's richest payday and most coveted championship trophy - the Forrest Wood Cup. FLW is committed to providing a lifestyle experience that is the "Best in Fishing, On and Off the Water," through a variety of platforms including tournaments, outdoor expos and the world's richest fantasy sports game - FLW Fantasy Fishing. For more information about FLW and FLW Fantasy Fishing, visit FLWOutdoors.com or FantasyFishing.com and look for FLW on Twitter and Facebook.
23 Oct 2012

US Forest Service waives fees during Veterans Day weekend

By USDA Office of Communications

WASHINGTON, Oct. 23, 2012 -- The U.S. Forest Service is waiving fees at most of its day-use recreation sites over the Veterans Day holiday weekend, Nov. 10-12.

The fee waivers - the fourth this year -- are offered in cooperation with other federal agencies under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act. Day-use fees will be waived at all standard amenity fee sites operated by the Forest Service. Concessionaire operated day-use sites may be included in the waiver if the permit holder wishes to participate.

"This is our way of saying thanks to the brave men and women - past and present - who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe at home," said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. "We encourage veterans, their families and all visitors to take time out over the holiday weekend to enjoy the benefits that nature provides at forests and grasslands throughout the country."

The fee waiver days support the goals of President Obama's America's Great Outdoors initiative and First Lady Michelle Obama's "Let's Move Outside."

Traditionally, fees are not charged on 98 percent of national forests and grasslands, and approximately two-thirds of developed recreation sites in national forests and grasslands can be used for free. Many recreation opportunities such as camping, sightseeing and hiking can be enjoyed throughout the year at no cost.

The Forest Service operates approximately 17,000 developed recreation sites nationwide. Of those, approximately 6,000 require recreation fees, which are used to provide visitor services, repairs and replacements, and facilities maintenance.

The mission of the Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world. Forest Service lands contribute more than $13 billion to the economy each year through visitor spending alone. Those same lands provide 20 percent of the nation's clean water supply, a value estimated at $27 billion per year.

#

USDA.gov logo

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (866) 632-9992 (Toll-free Customer Service), (800) 877-8339 (Local or Federal relay), (866) 377-8642 (Relay voice users).

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22 Oct 2012

Niabi Zoo Hires New Assistant Zoo Director

By Marc Heinzman
Coal Valley, IL - October 22, 2012 - Niabi Zoo announced today that it has hired a new Assistant Zoo Director to fill the vacancy left by the promotion of Marc Heinzman.

Dan Meates has been hired as Niabi Zoo's Assistant Zoo Director - Animal Programs. In this position, Mr. Meates will directly oversee the zoo's animal collection and its animal keeper staff. Meates has most recently worked at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, an AZA-accredited zoo in West Yellowstone, Montana, as the Animal Care Manager. Prior to that, he served as a Curator at Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi, Texas, and as a Curator at Wellington Zoo in Wellington, New Zealand.

The vacant Assistant Zoo Director position was reclassified from overseeing marketing and events to overseeing the animal department. This move was done in response to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums expressing Niabi Zoo's need for this type of position.

"We're very excited to have Dan join the Niabi Zoo team," said Zoo Director Marc Heinzman. "His experience and strong knowledge of the zoo field will undoubtedly prove invaluable as Niabi Zoo continues to grow and improve. I'm positive Dan will be a key player as we work towards our accreditation through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums."

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22 Oct 2012

Pure Biodiesel Coming to Tractor Pulling

By United Soybean Board
Minnesota soy checkoff board helps drive NTPA's acceptance of B100
ST. LOUIS (October 22, 2012) - U.S. soybean farmers, through their checkoff, support the National Tractor Pullers Association (NTPA) to promote biodiesel among pulling fans. The NTPA plans to return the favor by allowing the use of 100 percent biodiesel fuel, or B100, in all diesel pulling classes beginning next season.

This could increase biodiesel demand by putting its performance benefits on display for the farmers, truck drivers and other diesel users who make up a large portion of the NTPA's fan base.

"The NTPA has been a good partner with the soy checkoff," says United Soybean Board (USB) Director Jim Willers, a soybean farmer from Beaver Creek, Minn. "We are pleased that tractor pullers will be able to use B100 and show off what biodiesel can do for their engines."

A recent study by the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) and the United Pullers of Minnesota (UPM) found that using B100 in a pulling tractor can add up to 4 percent more horsepower and torque compared with traditional diesel.

Previously, NTPA fuel regulations limited the use of biodiesel to lower concentrations. This season, the NTPA and UPM allowed the use of B100 on a trial basis. The overwhelming success of the trial led the NTPA to adopt the policy permanently.

"We now have a reliable test to make sure it's B100, so pullers can use it right out of the pump," says Gregg Randall, NTPA office general manager. "The biggest thing is that this will be the ultimate proof that biodiesel performs well, which is what our partnership with the soy checkoff is all about."

The United Soybean Board has partnered with the NTPA for the past six years to help increase biodiesel availability and use among pulling fans. And for the third year in a row, the checkoff sponsored the NTPA's "Powered by Biodiesel" Light Pro Stock class, in which all competitors use biodiesel blends.

Biodiesel offers excellent horsepower, mileage, cetane and lubricity. It's also recognized as America's Advanced Biofuel due to its ability to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions. And since biodiesel's an American-made fuel that can be made from U.S. soy oil, it can help Americans declare freedom from foreign oil.

Finding biodiesel has never been easier. The Environmental Protection Agency recently announced it will require the use of 1.28 billion gallons of biodiesel next year under the Renewable Fuel Standard. That's an increase over this year's requirement of 1.1 billion gallons.

The soy checkoff funds biodiesel research and promotion efforts through the National Biodiesel Board to help increase the use of U.S. soy oil. Soy oil remains the dominant feedstock for U.S. biodiesel production.

The 69 farmer-directors of USB oversee the investments of the soy checkoff to maximize profit opportunities for all U.S. soybean farmers. These volunteers invest and leverage checkoff funds to increase the value of U.S. soy meal and oil, to ensure U.S. soybean farmers and their customers have the freedom and infrastructure to operate, and to meet the needs of U.S. soy's customers. As stipulated in the federal Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service has oversight responsibilities for USB and the soy checkoff.


For more information on the United Soybean Board, visit www.unitedsoybean.org
Visit us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/UnitedSoybeanBoard
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/unitedsoy
View our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/UnitedSoybeanBoard

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09 Oct 2012

IOWA FARM BUREAU, U OF I ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCE OCTOBER 20 ANF GAME DAY ACTIVITIES

By Laurie Johns

Former Hawkeye/NFL Players on Hand to Support Iowa's Farmers

WEST DES MOINES, IOWA - October 9, 2012 - The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) and the University of Iowa (U of I) Athletics Department have once again teamed up to raise awareness of the food and energy options that today's farmers provide through the America Needs Farmers (ANF) campaign. ANF Game Day will be celebrated at Kinnick Stadium October 20 against Penn State.

During ANF Game Day, the U of I will unveil ANF Plaza located in the space between the west grandstand and the north grandstand of Kinnick Stadium and will feature its first inductee into the ANF Wall of Honor, former Hawkeye and Kansas City Chiefs player, Casey Wiegmann. "Casey was a natural choice as our first inductee," said Hawkeye football coach, Kirk Ferentz. "He is a role model for other student athletes about the importance of persevering and always striving to do your best." The ANF Wall of Honor recognizes former U of I student football athletes who exemplify the tenacity, work ethic and character of the Iowa farmer, qualities that have helped Iowa remain the leading agriculture state in the nation.

A key feature of the IFBF's Legends Tent at Krause Family Plaza will be an autograph session of former Hawkeye/NFL players including Casey Wiegmann, Robert Gallery, Jared DeVries, Brad Banks and Tim Dwight, and U of I personalities Gary Dolphin and Ed Podolak to name a few. Although he won't be able to attend ANF Game Day, a new supporter of the ANF initiative announced earlier this year is Dallas Clark.

"We are so honored to have these celebrities support our cause," said Craig Hill, president of the IFBF. "The ANF initiative is an opportunity to reach new audiences about farming today and these players help us achieve that. We understand that consumers today are interested in knowing more about their food and that starts with farmers. There may be fewer of us than when Coach Fry launched ANF during the 1985 Farm Crisis, but there are also more challenges with a growing global population. We invite you to visit www.americaneedsfarmers.org to learn more about your food and energy and the farm families who produce it."

In addition to the autograph session, the IFBF Legends Tent will also feature games like Tailgate Toss where visitors can interact with Iowa farmers and earn a chance to win ANF prizes, or participate in a drawing for autographed ANF items.  The tent will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with the autograph session running from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

ANF Game Day will also help raise funds for the Iowa Food Bank Association, a collaboration of eight food banks which collect and distribute food and essential supplies to needy Iowans.  "The ANF initiative has really helped the food banks," said Executive Director of the Iowa Food Bank Association, Jordan Vernoy. "This year's drought is already driving up food prices in some areas and that's bringing even more families to our doors.  These are proud, hard-working Iowans who want short-term help, not a long-term handout to put food on the table. ANF is helping us feed these Iowans, because every dollar donated helps provide three meals to our neighbors struggling against hunger."

On ANF Game Day, ANF 'Farm Strong' merchandise will be available at Herky's Locker Room outlets with an expanded assortment available at the Herky's Locker Room location inside ANF Plaza. A portion of proceeds from the sale of ANF 'Farm Strong' merchandise goes to support the Iowa Food Banks.

ANF was first launched in 1985 during the height of the Farm Crisis by legendary Hawkeye coach Hayden Fry, who wanted to show an increasingly urban nation why agriculture matters.  For more information about the Iowa Farm Bureau/U of I ANF partnership, click on www.americaneedsfarmers.org.

To learn more about the growing number of Iowans in need and ways to help, click on http://iowafba.org/.

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About Iowa Farm Bureau

The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is a grassroots, statewide organization dedicated to enhancing the People, Progress and Pride of Iowa.  More than 153,000 families in Iowa are Farm Bureau members, working together to achieve farm and rural prosperity.  For more information about Farm Bureau and agriculture, visit the online Newsroom page at www.iowafarmbureau.com.

09 Oct 2012

Announcing "THE COSTUME RUN" First Annual Fun Run 5k

By Theatre Cedar Rapids

Sponsored by Theatre Cedar Rapids and the NewBo City Market

October 8, 2013 - Cedar Rapids, IA - Sponsored by Theatre Cedar Rapids & NewBo City Market, The Costume Run is co-presented by two Third Street nonprofits that hope to make an annual tradition of this interactive and theatrical twist on the traditional 5K fun run/walk.

When asked about the partnership with the NewBo City Market, TCR Executive Director Casey Prince said "Saturday, October 27th is the grand opening date for the New Bo City Market. ...We're very excited for this new neighbor of ours down Third Street, and not just because their new outdoor stage now stands where the formerly Cedar Rapids Community Theatre once stood. We're excited because we know we can and will complement this new community asset well in the years to come... I truly hope The Costume Run becomes an annual tradition in advance of Halloween, always on a weekend afternoon and always accessible to adults of all ages and abilities... Yes, this run will be much more interactive than your typical race."

The race, taking place at 4:00pm October 27, 2012 starts on stage at Theatre Cedar Rapids and follows a path downtown that is focused primarily on the trail, including Greene Square Park.  The race also follows along the Cedar River and features a stretch that actually runs through the Circle of Ash haunted house (with the lights on). Other interactive features of the run include activities approximately every kilometer of the course.  Every activity completed earns participants a chance at door prizes.

Registration is $30 per person and includes:

  • TCR Sippy Cup
  • Race Shirt
  • Deals at affiliate businesses
  • A free ticket to the 10:30pm screening of "Rocky Horror Picture Show" (w/ prop bag) at TCR

Event Schedule:

  • October 15 - Register by this date to ensure shirt size.
  • October 27 
    • 3:00pm - Check in at TCR
    • 3:45pm - Meet at starting line for instructions
    • 4:00pm - Start race
    • 10:00pm - Awards at TCR
    • 10:30pm - Rocky Horror Picture Show (Movie) begins at TCR, free to registered race participants.

An awards ceremony will be hosted that same evening at TCR at 10:00pm. - Credit will be given for all activities completed and each credit will count as an additional chance in the drawing of prizes. Prizes will also be awarded for best times and best costume (individual and group).  Minors must be accompanied by an adult if attending the awards ceremony and film.   

Balloons Etc (www.crballoonsetc.com) is offering a 10% discount race participants. 

Event Partners: Circle of Ash, Design Trust, ImOn Communications, Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation

 

Registrations are being accepted online at 
www.theatrecr.org/TheCostumeRun
or call the TCR box office at 319-366-8591.

 

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