The good and the bad of October

     I dread the cold that inevitably accompanies this month, but with October also comes one of

my favorite events: the Environmental Film Festival in Cedar Rapids. Last year during one of the screenings, I was fortunate to meet “King Corn” filmmakers,  Ian Cheney and Curt Ellis. This year kicks off with another film by the two: “The Greening of Southie,” on Sunday, Oct. 4, at Prairiewoods in Hiawatha. There are 11 different films being shown this month in various locations in the Cedar Rapids area, they're all great movies, you're bound to learn something and they're free! Following is the schedule for the film fest and after that listing are other eco-events scheduled in Eastern Iowa for October 2009.

 The Greening of Southie

Sunday, October 4 • 1– 2:30 pm at Prairiewoods

120 E. Boyson Road

Host: Prairiewoods

What happens when you're asked to build the city of tomorrow… to­day? From the co-producers that brought us King Corn bring The Greening of Southie – a dynamic portrait of the future of green building in America. This film highlights the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) process in a funny and poignant way. An open discussion by local LEED expert Bruce Hamous and Prairiewoods' recent LEED involvement will follow the film.

Addicted to Plastic

Saturday, October 10 • 2:30 and 5:30 pm

Knight's Pumpkin & Sweet Corn Farm 3482 Whittier Rd north of Whittier

Host: Cedar Rapids Linn County Solid Waste Agency

In less than one hour take away a better understanding issues surround­ing plastic use - From how there is no such thing as disposability to the disconnect between manufacturers and recyclers ending with individuals and companies who make a difference by developing alternatives, and how we all can move forward responsibly. Activities provided rain or shine for 5-12 year-old kids during the 2:30 pm showing. The 5:30 pm showing will be followed by a bonfire.

John James Audubon: Drawn from Nature

Sunday, October 11 • 1-2:30 pm at CRMA Auditorium

410 Third Ave SE

Host: Cedar Rapids Museum of Art

One of America's first naturalists, John James Audubon (1785-1851) was perhaps best known as an artist, publisher, and promoter. His book, The Birds of America, an astonishing collection of 435 life-size prints, was the largest book printed in the 19th century and his early subscribers included the kings of England and France. Winner of numerous awards, this 54-minute film will be followed by a look at some actual Audubon prints.

FLOW: For Love of Water

Tuesday, Oct. 13 • 7 pm at Indian Creek Nature Center

6665 Otis Road SE

Host: Indian Creek Nature Center

Profiling water issues from the US to India and from Europe to Africa, this film delves into the complexities of water and its various networks. This film proclaims that the 21st century is the century for the common people and suggests solutions that are available to all of us. Learn how the billion dollar answers are not always the best . . . and how simple (and sometimes ancient) solutions can bring about tremendous life-sustaining change.

BROKEN LIMBS: Apples, Agriculture and the New American Farmer

Sunday, October 18 • 2-4 pm at Christ Episcopal Church

220 40th St NE

Host: Christ Episcopal Church

Told from a hometown perspective, the film presents stories of farmers searching for ways to sustain their livelihood in today's global market. Join us for an apple fest following the film and learn about ways you can support local farming efforts.

No Impact Man

Tuesday, October 20 • 7 pm at Coe College - Kesler Auditorium

1120 1st Ave NE

Host: Coe College

Is it possible for Manhattan author Colin Beavan to be “No Impact Man” for a year, to live without television, taxis or take-out in an effort to have no net impact on the environment? Only if his wife, Michelle-a self-proclaimed expresso and shopping addict who writes for BusinessWeek-and their 3-year-old daughter to join him in the endeavor. Find out how it all comes out at the IOWA PREMIERE showing of the film.

Taking Root: The Vision of Wangari Maathai

Saturday, October 24 • 1- 3:30pm at the African American Museum

55 12th Ave SE

Hosts: Trees Forever and the African American Museum

The Vision of Wangari Maathai, tells the dramatic story of Kenyan Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Wangari Maathai whose simple act of planting trees grew into a nationwide movement to safeguard the environment, protect human rights, and defend democracy. A Tree Planting will begin at 1 pm with the film showing directly after.

Scarred Lands & Wounded Lives: The Environmental

Footprint of War

Sunday, October 25 • 2 pm at Ecumenical Community Center

601 2nd Ave SE., 6th St. entrance.

Host: United Nations Assoc-USA, Linn County Chapter

In the context of today's growing awareness and alarm about global climate change, the film shows that natural security (the protection and preservation of ecosystems) is an essential component of any realistic approach to national security.

Monumental: David Brower's Fight for Wild America

Tuesday October 27 • 7 pm at Wickiup Hill Outdoor Learning Center

10260 Morris Hills Road – Toddville, IA

Hosts: Iowa Conservation Education Coalition and Wickiup Hill

Using a first-person documentary style, charismatic environmentalist David Brower -- who was also an accomplished filmmaker -- takes you along for the ride in his lifelong fight to protect the American wilderness. From the part he played in passing the 1964 Wilderness Act through Congress to his instrmental role in saving the Grand Canyon, Brower demonstrates his commitment to saving the planet -- one cause at a time.

Oil on Ice

Thursday October 29 • 7 pm at Coe College - Kesler Auditorium

1220 1st Ave NE

Host: Sierra Club- Cedar Wapsie Group

This film connects the fate of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to the critical decisions America makes about energy policy. Caught in the balance are the Gwich'in Indians and the migratory wildlife in the fragile ecosystem.

Third Ward Texas & City Repair Project/Portland, Oregon

Friday October 30 • 7 pm and 8pm at Horizon Family Service Center

Corner of 5th St. and 9th Ave SE Cedar Rapids

Host: SEED

On the opening night of the Third Annual S.E.E.D. Conference, we will show two documentaries under one theme: Building Sustainable Neighborhoods. These films present information on model sustainable communities in Texas and Oregon. A lively discussion will follow on creating a more sustainable Cedar Rapids.

  Other events this month include:

 Thurs., Oct. 1, 4:30-5:20 p.m., Sustainability: Past, Present, and Future from a Corporate View, Shambaugh Auditorium, University of Iowa Main Library. The “Sustainable U Seminars” are designed to share sustainability experiences, challenges, and best practices from industry leaders recognized for world-class sustainability programs with students, faculty, staff, local and state government officials, and corporate partners. Featuring Jean Sweeney; Vice President of Environmental, Health & Safety Operations; 3M Company, St. Paul, MN. More info: http://www.engineering.uiowa.edu/events/sustainable-u/sustainable-u-2009-2010.php

Thurs., Oct. 1, 7 p.m., Making Your Older Home More Energy Efficient Featuring Thomas McInerney, Architect. Room A, Iowa City Public Library, 123 South Linn St.

More info: http://calendar.icpl.org/view.php?did=12479

 Sat., Oct. 3, 9:15 a.m., Trees Forever NeighborWoods/ Habitat for Humanity Planting event. Volunteers are needed to help 20 new Habitat for Humanity homeowners and their families plant trees in their yards and neighborhoods. These trees will add beauty and value to the homes and neighborhood, and their shade will provide energy savings and environmental benefits for years to come. The event will start at the Habitat for Humanity homes at Wilderness Estates on Moose Ave NW, Cedar Rapids. Volunteers should arrive at 9:15 a.m. to register for the planting event and get a free t-shirt.  Please park on F Ave NW on the shoulder of the highway.  The event will begin with a kick-off celebration at 9:30, followed by planting.  When planting is completed, volunteers will take a lunch break (lunch will be provided) then drive to the Colorado Ave SW homes to continue planting; please park on 66kbrook@treesforever.org or 319-373-0650 ext. 14. More detailed information will be sent to registered volunteers.

^th

Ave SW.  Please avoid parking on the side streets off 66

^th

Ave.  The event will end at approximately 2:00 pm when planting is finished. Volunteers should dress for the weather and should wear close-toed shoes. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own tools (shovels, rakes, wheel barrows, etc.), but must mark them and keep track of them. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Karen Brook at

Sat., Oct. 3, 1-5 p.m., Prairiewoods, 120 E. Boyson Rd., Hiawatha, is hosting a program to teach people how to build a rain garden. Those attending will participate in the construction of a small rain garden. A rain garden looks like any kind of a flower garden, but it's actually designed to support habitat for birds and to improve stormwater quality and to reduce runoff volumes – something people who get flooded yards might find helpful. The class is being taught by Jason Grimm of the Iowa Valley Resource Conservation and Development. Fee is $25. 319-395-6700.

 Sat., Oct. 3, 3:30 p.m.,  ZJ Farm Harvest Festival, 5025 120th Street, Solon, 3:30 p.m. farm tours; 5 p.m. potluck; 6:30 p.m., barn dance, music by the Tater Twangers Caller: Gail Hintze. Please bring a dish to share, your own place setting, and a dessert or beverage.  From Solon, 3 miles north on Hwy 1, then 3 miles east on 120th St. Large white house and barn beside the road, on the right. See: www.zjfarms.com

 Sat., Oct. 3, 10 a.m.-noon, Linn County Conservation Department and Linn Area Photo Club are sponsoring a photo shoot at Wickiup Hill Outdoor Learning Center near Toddville.  LAPC will help participants learn to take some great fall pictures at the Wickiup Hill. Bring your digital camera, tripod and memory cards and seek out a LAPC member to help you compose a scene and maximize your camera functions to get a great shot. Cost: $2.50/adult, $1/child 16 and under or $5/family.  Please call 892-6485 to register.

 Mon., Oct. 5, 7:30 p.m., Oneota Flow - A Deep History of the Birds and People of the Mississippi Flyway. The Cedar Rapids Audubon Society and the Linn County Conservation Department are cosponsoring a presentation at Peoples Unitarian Church, 600 3rd Ave SE, in Cedar Rapids. Join David Faldet, Professor of English at Luther College, for this interesting presentation on people's relationship to natural resources. Faldet is the sixth generation to live in the Upper Iowa River basin, which winds from Southern Minnesota's flat farm fields through Northeast Iowa's wooded valleys to the Mississippi. In his book, Oneota Flow (University of Iowa 2009), Faldet moves through the history of life along the Upper Iowa, focusing on the ways people depend on the river, the environment, and the resources. He blends history, environmental research, and personal experience to show us that the health of the river is best guaranteed by maintaining the biological communities that nurture it. Further, taking care of our rivers is the best way to take care of our future.

 Thurs., Oct. 8, 7 p.m., Growing Local Foods - Growing Healthy Communities Local Foods Panel Discussion featuring Regenia Bailey, Scott Koepke, Kyle Sieck, Laura Dowd and James Nisly. New Pioneer Coop will provide refreshments. Room A, Iowa City Public Library, 123 South Linn St. More info: http://www.icpl.org/eco-iowa-city/

 Thurs., Oct. 8, 8 p.m., “Animal Vegetable Miracle” by Barbara Kingsolver, One Community, One Book discussion with Pat Schnack, discussion leader. New Pioneer Coop will provide refreshments. Room A, Iowa City Public Library, 123 South Linn St. More info: http://www.icpl.org/one-book/

 Sat., Oct. 10, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., The Indian Creek Nature Center, 6665 Otis Rd. SE, Cedar Rapids, will offer prairie seeds for the yard. Stop by the center's shop to receive a “picking license” for $10 and bring a large paper grocery bag. After years of restoration, the Nature Center has an abundance of seed available to help others establish their own prairie.

 Fri., Oct. 16- Sat., Oct. 17, Energy and Climate Change in the Midwest: Creating Opportunities in the New Economy. Co-sponsored by the Center for Global and Regional Environmental Research (CGRER), the Office of the President, the Office of Sustainability, and the Public Policy Center, all at the University of Iowa, this symposium presents an opportunity look to the future of energy in the Midwest in light of the causes and effects of global climate change. Where: University of Iowa Athletic Club.  More info: http://ppc.uiowa.edu/dnn4/Default.aspx?tabid=295

 Sat., Oct. 17, 10:30 a.m., Brucemore's Autumn Landscape Hike. Embrace the harvest season by joining the Brucemore gardeners for the Autumn Landscape Hike.  Set amid the subtle and spectacular dressings of the autumnal landscape, this 90-minute walk will blend discussion on current preservation issues, the importance of public use, and the seasonal chores which keep the historic grounds at their peak.  The colors of the season, from dusky plum to rusty barn red, will naturally highlight the “outdoor rooms” of the original landscape design.  Participants will see how planting choices with sensitivity to native species and seasonal display affect the overarching impact of a landscape design. While in this glorious setting, participants will have the opportunity to ask Brucemore Gardeners Deb Engmark and David Morton myriad questions ranging from cultural needs of particular plants to larger landscape design issues past and present.  Participants can seek advice about their own gardens and landscapes as the walk works its way through the estate's 26 acres. Admission is $10.00 per person and $7.00 per Brucemore member. Registration required. Space is limited, please call (319) 362-7375 or visit: www.brucemore.org for further information. Brucemore, Iowa's only National Trust Historic Site, is located at 2160 Linden Drive SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Wed. Oct. 21, 9 a..m. - 3 p.m., Rainscaping Rain Garden & Bioretention Cell Design Workshop, New Hartford Community Center. The workshop will address the use or rain gardens and bioretntion cells for stormwater quality management and yard beautification. Download a registration form at:www.iowastormwater.org look under the events calendar. The program will also be presented at the same hours Nov. 5 at F.W. Kent Park in Johnson County. The event is free. See: www.icosc.com

Sat., Oct. 24, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Culver's Garden Center & Greenhouse in Marion will hold an October Celebration featuring fall-themed activities for kids and adults. Culver's is proud to welcome back the

Iowa State University Insect Zoo to present

Creepy Crawlies in the Garden and Beyond! Kids will enjoy interacting with live insects in this hands-on “creepy crawly” presentation. Sessions will be held at 10 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Cost is $7 per child and registration is requested by October 21st by calling (319) 377-4195. Payment is due upon registration. Space is limited. Children must be accompanied by an adult. From 11 a.m.–1p.m. children can enjoy listening to

spooky stories told in Culver's greenhouses while snacking on treats. Hayrack rides will be given from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Kids are encouraged to

come in costume.  Along with viewing new fall and holiday décor, adults can enjoy

sampling native Iowa wines from Stone Cliff Winery

and fall comfort foods from many of Culver's gourmet food lines. Wine tasting will be available from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Gourmet food samples will be available all day.  Information is at:

www.culverslandscape.com or by calling (319) 377-4195.