Do you have a community event you'd like to submit?  Click here to submit your event details or email community service events to michelle.slick@cumulus.com or fax to (319) 363-8062. 

Walk MS — Every step matters, every dollar counts, every person makes a difference. When you give, you support programs, services and cutting-edge research. What you give can change thousands of lives. For more information, visit MY-M-S-WALK-DOT-ORG. One step at a time, Walk MS changes lives.   WALK MS IOWA......MAY 19

BIRTHRIGHT DANCE FOR LIFE– Please join us at our 23rd annual Dance for Life on Saturday, February 25 from 6:30 - 10:00 pm.  It will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall at 716 A Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids.  The evening will include a variety of music, karaoke, silent auction, door prizes, face painting and a light meal, courtesy of the Knights of Columbus.  Tickets are only $7 per person, in advance or at the door (age 4 and under are free).  All proceeds benefit Birthright!  For tickets or information, call Birthright at 393-3251 or Cathy at 573-4910.  See you there!    

 (Marion, IA) Locally based animal welfare organization Iowa Humane Alliance invites area residents to warm up their winter by joining them for a "Hot Soup-Cold Noses Benefit Supper" at the Marion American Legion, Friday, February 17th from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Admission for the all-you-can-eat affair is $8.00 for adults, with kids under five eating for free. The menu of home-style offerings includes chicken noodle soup and vegetable noodle soup (both with fresh, homemade noodles), beef-and-bean chili and vegan chili, cornbread, dinner rolls and a selection of beverages, as well as an assortment of home-made dessert bars and cookies.

Proceeds from the evening will go to fund IHA's on-going mission to reduce companion animal overpopulation and animal suffering in Iowa, including the organization's new Regional Spay/Neuter Clinic opening in early 2012 in the Cedar Rapids/Iowa City Corridor. When fully functioning, the clinic will serve 41 Eastern Iowa counties in a 100 mile radius of Cedar Rapids/Iowa City and will provide low-cost, high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter procedures for over 8,000 animals a year.  This high volume of procedures will prevent the births of literally tens of thousands of unwanted companion animals a year; animals that would otherwise contribute to the costly overcrowding in Eastern Iowa shelters and rescues struggling to keep up with the inflow of animals to their facilities.

IHA will also have a selection of animal-themed gift items available for sale during the event, including t-shirts and magnets, as well as their kid-pleasing, prize-every-time "Wheel of Fur-tune."

The Marion American Legion is located at 625 31st Street, Marion, IA, 52302. 

About IHA

Iowa Humane Alliance is a Cedar Rapids/Iowa City Corridor area nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to ending companion animal over-population, shelter overcrowding and animal abuse in Iowa by increasing public access to affordable, quality spay/neuter services.

For more information about this benefit event, or any of IHA's other on-going programs, please contact Iowa Humane Alliance at 319-363-1225 or visit our website at www.iowahumanealliance.org.

Press contact: Kathleen Schoon, IHA Director of Development, (319) 651-4394, kathleen@iowahumanealliance.org

After a 3 year break following the flood, Coaches for Kids is back for their 6^th year - planned for Tuesday, April 10, 2012 from 6:00-9:00 pm at the Cedar Rapids Marriott.  Gary Dolphin will be the program emcee, and Kirk Ferentz the Keynote Speaker.  The event will again include an autograph session, silent and live auctions, and the dinner program. 

A new addition this year is the Coach of the Year Award. 

This award was developed to recognize the important role coaches play in providing much needed positive mentoring to youth, particularly youth facing challenging circumstances.  Nominations can be made by community members for a high school coach/assistant coach within the Linn, Johnson or Jones county area.  The top three nominees selected will be announced in March, and the award will be presented to the winner by Iowa Football Coach, Kirk Ferentz, at the Coaches for Kids banquet.  The work of all three will be honored during the event.  The winner will receive a plaque and a $500.00 cash award for their school/booster club in their name.  Nominations are due March 2^nd. 

Funds raised from theCoaches for Kids event will be used to support the Children of Promise mentoring programs which serve over 420 youth facing multiple life challenges, including those with parents involved in the correctional system.  By providing caring adult mentors and opportunities for participation and belonging, Children of Promise helps 420+ local youth become healthy, contributing members of our community.  Children of Promise is a program of the Community Corrections Improvement Association (CCIA), a 501(c) (3) non-profit foundation.

If you want to purchase a ticketor table for to this event, make a donation, or want more information, please feel free to reply to me, or call me at 730-1195.  Feel free to forward this email and the flyer to anyone else you think might be interested.

UIVA Warrior Challenge and 5K

Saturday, March 31, 2012 in Iowa City, IA at Hawkeye Recreation Fields - Hawkeye Park Drive

•5K Run/Walk at 10:00 AM

» $20.00 Non Military Civilians (through 3/29 at 11:59 PMUS/Central)

» $15.00 Current and Former Military Members (through 3/29 at 11:59 PMUS/Central)

•Warrior Challenge at 8:00 AM

» $30.00 Non Military Civilians (through 3/29 at 11:59 PMUS/Central)

» $25.00 Current and Former Military Members (through 3/29 at 11:59 PMUS/Central)

 The Race

•Participants can sign up for either the 5k Run/walk or the Warrior Challenge

•Both Events Are open to the public

5K Run/Walk

All levels of runners and walkers are encouraged to come out and take part in this great race

Warrior Challenge

•Test yourself and your friends by

Competing in the warrior challenge!

•Sign up for the warrior challenge in teams of 4

•Teams will compete in 3 strongman military style challenges

1. Tire flip

2. Stone carry

3. Weighted 5k run

Warrior Challenge Specifics:

•Each team member will compete in each event.

1st Event

•The clock will start and the first teammate will individually flip a large semi tire down 25 yds and back, then the next teammate and so on until everyone has gone.

2nd Event

•There will be cinder blocks at the one end of the 25 yd strip.

•Each team will start at the opposite end and send one teammate at a time to go down, grab a cinder block, and bring it back.

•Teams will keep doing this until they move all of their cinder blocks.

3rd Event

•Event three is the Weighted 5k

•This event is completed in joint with the 5k Run/Walk

•When a Warrior Challenger signs up they get a t-shirt and a backpack. They'll use the backpack and carry an extra 25lbs in the 5k with all the other 5k runners.

•Warrior Challenge teams in the 5k must finish as a team.

There will be specific rules and guidelines for the Warrior Challenge released at packet pick-up

Packet Pick-Up & Hotel Reservations

Packet pick up and registration will be on

Friday, March 30th, 2012, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM

-At-

Sheraton Iowa City Hotel

210 South Dubuque St

Iowa City, IA52240

For hotel reservations, these must be made by Wednesday, February 29, 2012.

To book a room participants can call (800) 848-1335 and request the UIVA Warrior Challenge discounted rate or book online at https://www.starwoodmeeting.com/StarGroupsWeb/booking/reservation?id=1112237128&key=2C593

Race Day

•Race day registration on March 31st, 2012will be for the 5k Run/Walk only From 7:00-9:30 AM.

•Race day packet pick-up will be available for the Warrior Challenge from 7:00-7:45 AM

•Race day packet pick-up will be available for the 5k Run/Walk from 7:00-9:30 AM

Race Start

8:00 AM - Warrior Challenge Events begin

10:00 AM - 5K race start

11:00 AM - Awards ceremony

Race Course & Location

Warrior challenge events, race start & finish, and awards will take place at:

Hawkeye Recreation Fields

Hawkeye Park Drive

Iowa City, Iowa

Race course will run out of the University rec fields, through Ashton cross country course, and onto Iowa City Paved trail heading back to the rec fields.

Event Day Parking

•Participants are encouraged to use the campus system to get to the hawkeye recreation fields on race day

•Limited parking will be available in the hawklot commuter lot

Accommodations

The Sheraton Iowa City hotel is the official hotel of the UIVA Warrior Challenge & 5k Run/Walk. The Sheraton Iowa city hotel is offering participants a discounted rate. Book your room today by calling 1-800-848-1335 and asking for the Warrior Challenge discounted rate or book online at https://www.starwoodmeeting.com/StarGroupsWeb/booking/reservation?id=1112237128&key=2C593

Post Race Activities

•Post race meal and awards following the 5K

•5K Awards ceremony will include age group and overall awards

•Warrior challenge awards will include a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd overall teams

Questions?

For all questions and concerns please contact the Race Director:

Michael Considine

email: michael-considine@uiowa.edu

ph: 712.301.8024 

It's The Brain Injury Association of Iowa's annual Run Walk and Roll 5K to the community events. We invite the community to come join us as we go joggin for our noggins! There will be a 5K that will start at 9AM on March 31st and a 1 mile fun run that will start at 10AM on March 31st. Both the 5K and fun run will be $25 ($30 on the day of) and all kids under the age of 12 run free! This will all take place in City Park in Iowa City. You can register online through https://secure.getmeregistered.com/get_information.php?event_id=5953 or through the BIA-IA website http://www.biaia.wildapricot.org/Default.aspx?pageId=1224508. We are hoping to bring in 1000 runners and raise $20,000 for the association. The mission of the Brain Injury Association of Iowa is to create a better future through brain injury prevention, advocacy, education, research, and support. More than 95,000 Iowans are living with a disability from a brain injury, please help us make a difference!

If you’re heading to a party to watch the Super Bowl this Sunday, make the right play by making sure you have a safe ride home.  That way, no matter the outcome of the game, everyone goes home a winner!  Bud Light 7G Distributing LLC and Cumulus Media, remind you that drinking responsibly is part of every good time. 

ISAIC Launches Facility Locator

New tool to link Iowans to prevention and recovery

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – January 31, 2012– Iowans can now go to http://facilitylocator.drugfreeinfo.org, to access a web based tool created by the Iowa Substance Abuse Information Center (ISAIC) to locate facilities and services related to substance abuse and problem gambling across the state.  Search options include location, level of care, gender and age, as well as finding facilities providing prevention, detoxification, evaluation, treatment and required drinking driver education classes.  Unique needs such as facilities who serve non-English speaking clients or women with children are also identified. 

The enhanced Facility Locator is just one of the many changes underway at ISAIC, including the creation of a new logo and branding to match the Cedar Rapids Public Library, ISAIC’s parent organization.  Program upgrades to come include a new interactive website with mobile accessibility, updated materials for the lending library, and new connections with relevant professionals to ensure that ISAIC services are a known and available resource state-wide.

“ISAIC has been supporting prevention, treatment and recovery efforts in Iowa for nearly 40 years,” said Emily Blomme, Program Manager. “It’s the link that connects people in Iowa to the information and resources they need to be well. We are excited to have the improved Facility Locator up and running with state-wide facility information available at the click of a mouse.”

Even though ISAIC is physically located in Cedar Rapids, the program serves the entire state.  A 24/7 Toll-free Helpline is available to answer questions and link Iowans to the information they need about prevention, treatment and recovery, and callerscan always be transferred to a crisis counselor if need be.  ISAIC also maintains a vast selection of relevant pamphlets and printed materials, as well as a large lending library of books, DVDs and training materials used statewide by many treatment centers, human service agencies and Department of Correction facilities.  Media items can be reserved up to 60 days in advance and can be reserved by calling the ISAIC office or online using our catalog.

For more information on the Iowa Substance Abuse Information Center, visit www.drugfreeinfo.org or call toll-free (866) 242-4111

ON THE MOVE…..LITTLE BLACK DRESS BRUNCH!

SAVE THE DATE!

Saturday, March 3rd

Brown Deer Golf Club

1900 Country Club Dr.

Coralville, IA52241

10:00 Networking & Silent Auction

11:00 Brunch and program

12:30 Auction checkout

You’re invited to the annual On the Move Little Black Dress fundraising event which benefits the National MS Society. Please join us for an auction, brunch and inspirational keynote speaker. Seats are $30 each. If you have questions about a reservation or would like to be a table host or sponsor, please contact Emily Hoover at 319-447-1801 or Emily.hoover@nmss.org or visit our website Littleblackdressforms.org. 

Born and raised in the Cedar Rapids area,  Joyce Nelson Shellhart graduated from college expecting to have a long career as a high school art teacher. Little did she realize life had much different plans for her. Multiple sclerosis, divorce after a 20-year abusive marriage, and the struggles of a single, low-income mother challenged her in ways she never imagined. Her personal story follows a journey from victim to survivor to, finally, a woman who thrives. Joyce Nelson Shellhart is the author of “Dress to Impress, How a Navy Blazer Changed My Life.” Her humor, honesty and ability to speak as if to a group of very close friends only adds to her strong message. 

Taste of Czech and Slovak Cuisine

Friday  May 18, 2012 at St. Ludmila Church 215  21^st Ave. S.W. Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404. Enjoy samples of Czech and Slovak Cuisine at this popular annual event hosted by the Museum Guild of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library.

5pm – 7pm  Fee: $10 for 20 samples or $6 for 10 samples.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Iowa

Founded in 1985, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Iowa creates, finds and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children. RMHC of Eastern Iowa provides care and comfort to children and their families by supporting its cornerstone program, the 31-room "home away from home" Ronald McDonald House of Iowa City. RMHC of Eastern Iowa also supports not-for-profit children’s programs and students making a difference in Eastern Iowa through its grants and scholarships program.

28th Annual Ronald McDonald House Family

Fun Run/Walk and 10-Mile Race

Sunday, May 6, 2012

What makes the Ronald McDonald House Family Fun Run/Walk and 10-Mile Race exciting is that it is actually older than the Ronald McDonald House of Iowa City. This event was the first fundraiser for the original facility and continues to this day, with a 965 participant field that raised over $30,000 in 2011.

The race is held annually in the spring and consists of a 10-mile run for competitive runners, a 5-k run/walk for families and a Ronald’s Kids Dash for children. Families who previously have stayed at the Ronald McDonald House of Iowa City often return and participate in the race, either in memory of a lost child or in honor of a happy recovery. Since the Ronald McDonald House of Iowa City serves those living 20 miles or more from Iowa City, the race also acts as a wonderful opportunity to spread the mission of RMHC of Eastern Iowa within the Corridor.

This year’s event, held on Sunday, May 6, will continue to focus on creating a special morning for our participants and former families who travel back to Iowa City to run or walk in honor or memory of a loved one.  

SUNDAY, FEB. 12

7AM-12:30PM

ST. MARY'S PARISH CENTER

ALL YOU CAN EAT

ADULTS $6, KIDS (5-10) $3, UNDER 5 FREE

RAFFLE OF ITEMS MADE BY STUDENTS, CRAFT AND BAKE SALE

PROCEEDS BENEFIT RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

2012 Chili Challenge Fact Sheet

Who: Linn County Blues Society

Isle of Iowa Parrot Head Club

What: 12th Annual Blues `n` Buffett Chili Challenge

When: Sunday February 26th, 2012

1 – 4 PM

Where: Cedar Rapids Marriott

1200 Collins Rd NE

Cedar Rapids, Ia 52402

Cost: $8.00 in advance

$10.00 at Door

$5.00 Seniors (65 over)

Kids under 7 FREE

Website

http://blues-buffett.com/

Facebook Page

www.facebook.com/pages/Blues-n-Buffett-Chili-Challenge

Do you know of a high school coach or assistant coach in Linn, Johnson, or Jones County who has had a significant impact mentoring the kids they coach?  If so, you have an opportunity to honor their work by nominating them for the Children of Promise - Coach of the Year award to be presented by Iowa football coach Kirk Ferentz at the “Coaches for Kids” banquet on April 10^th.  The winner will receive a plaque and a $500.00 cash award to be given to their school/booster club in their name. Go to iowachildrenofpromise.org toget the nomination form.  The nomination is due March 2^nd.

Gateway Rotary Club, Ely Annual Soup Supper

Saturday, Feb 11^th 2012 from 4:00-7:00PM at the Ely American Legion

Supper Tickets are $5 in advance, $7 at the door (5 & under FREE)                           

Live Music – BINGO – Huge Bake Sale - “Purses with a purpose” available.         

Great family fun – Come enjoy!

PLUS a RAFFLE- This year the 1st prize is an IPAD 2 or $500 in cash.                                    

Raffle tickets are $5.  Need NOT be present to win.

Proceeds from the evening will help support our service projects:                     

Prairie Edge K-12 & Alternative High School (Four Oaks Campus)                                          

Prairie Wood Transition Center (Kirkwood Campus) and our International Project (elementary school) in Guatemala.

www.gateway.org for more information 

FIRST “PEDAL FOR HOME” TEAM RIDES AT RAGBRAI XL

Cyclists Join Team RMHC to Raise Money for Iowa’s Three Ronald McDonald Houses in Iowa City, 

Des Moines and Sioux City

Wednesday, January 25, 2012– For the first time, Team RMHC (Ronald McDonald House Charities) will ride in Ragbrai, the weeklong bicycle ride across Iowa taking place July 22-28.  The goal of Team RMHC is to raise thousands of dollars for the three Ronald McDonald Houses in Iowa that serve families of critically ill children, providing them with a home-away-from-home while their child is hospitalized.

“Team RMHC is a new way for us to bring awareness to the mission of Iowa’s three Ronald McDonald House Charities, which serve more than 3,000 families each year,” said Kristin Roberts, Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Iowa.  “Our goal is to raise up to $25,000 for the houses, to help provide the services and support that make Ronald McDonald House such a special place.” 

Each rider on Team RMHC will raise $1,500 or more, and will wear an official Team RMHC jersey.  Ronald McDonald House Charities is providing all of the riders’ accommodations and amenities, much through sponsorships, so riders can concentrate on the fun of participating in Ragbrai.

“Team RMHC is raising money for an important cause, but it is going to be a lot of fun too,” said Dana Larson from Cedar Rapids.  “When our son had cancer, Ronald McDonald House was such an amazing resource for us, providing not only housing but a place where kids can have fun and be near their families.” 

The deadline to join Team RMHC is March 1. For more information:

For more information, visit the Team RMHC Facebook site: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Team-RMHC-Iowa-Pedal-for-Home/308407292513568 or contact Beth Pfohl at pfohle@healthcare.uiowa.eduor 319.356.8302.

Join us back at our home in the Czech Village in our new and expanded Museum and Library! Guests will lightly imbibe a plethora of premium international beers, expertly matched with savory hors d' oeuvres created by talented Cedar Rapids and Iowa City chefs. Live jazz performances will set the mood. For those who prefer grapes to barley, don't despair! We have a well-rounded wine selection to please the most discriminating sipper. The evening rounds out with a chance to purchase some rare finds at our Silent Auction or baked goods at Babi’s Bakery and someone will win the Golden Prague Getaway Raffle.

Friday Oct. 26, 2012

6:00pm to 9:30pm

Kecia Boysen   kboysen@NCSML.org   

319-362-8500

Tickets:

General Admission : $ 60.00

Patrons                   : $ 85.00

Brewmasters          : $125.00

  The Miracle Rally a nonprofit fund raiser for the Childrens Miracle Network on May 19 in Farley Ia 920 Simon Drive Simon trucking campground just west of Dubuque Ia. on Hwy 20. The Rally is a Poker run Rod & Bike show consist of DJ Rally show, Bands , vendors both car & bike, food, beer tent, ice cream, kettlecorn, stunt show, CR Spirits dance show, wickedenchantment fitness pole dance show, Miss Rally contest, Bud-light girls, fund raising events, Blessing of the bikes, vets Freedom triker trike rides, Harley-davidson Dubuque jump start program, rock wall competition, fireworks, camping (trailer or tent), shower units, tattooing, pinstriping, bounce houses, fire department poker tables and games, breakfest Sunday morning, drawings, raffles,50/50, silent auction, Rally t-shirts, Mr Hotrod contest, cool custom show and display pieces, and more, video and photographer will be there. ( optional ) dress bike, rally wear or 50/60s, car hoop wear. Proceeds benefit the University of Iowa Children's Hospital.  For more information, contact Scott at 563 542 5463
 
 

American Heart Association- Local American Heart Month Events

All Month: St. Luke's Hospital, Cedar Rapids: American Heart Association Go Red For Women survivor gallery will be on display.

Wednesday, February 1: Become a Redhead! 12pm-1pm at Waverly Health Center, Waverly.  A $10 donation to the AHA will get you a removable red hair extension, courtesy of the Wash Basin.  For details, contact Kristin Anderson at Kristin.Anderson@heart.org .

Thursday, February 2:  Circle of Red Event: 5pm-8pm at Mercy Health Plaza, Cedar Rapids.  Learn how yoga, aromatherapy, smart ergonomics and eating right can help reduce stress in your life.  For details, contact Jennifer McLeod at Jennifer.McLeod@heart.org .

Friday, February 3:  Wear Red Day; Businesses and individuals across the state will wear red to raise awareness of women's No. 1 Killer- heart disease.

Photo Booth and Casting Call: Stop by the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics' cafeteria to have a mini-photo shoot of you and your friends wearing red and also to share your story about how you uncovered the truth about heart disease.  Sign up to volunteer and maybe even win a slot as the national Go Red For Women spokesperson! Details by emailing alexson.calahan@heart.org .

Thursday, February 9:  Go Red Casting Call at Keep the Beat- The AMA will have a booth at Iowa Heart Center and Mercy Medical Center's Keep the Beat Health Fair on Thursday, February 9.  Our booth will feature educational materials and giveaways plus a chance to audition to be a local and national Go Red For Women Spokesperson.  Go Red For Women is a movement by the American Heart Association to educate women on their No. 1 killer- heart disease.   From 4:30pm-6:30pm, Sheraton West Des Moines.

Saturday, February 11:  Experience the energy of a Zumbathon first hand! Aspen Athletic Clubs and the local American Heart Association have teamed up to bring you the 2012 Zumbathon on Saturday, February 11th at the Hickman location of Aspen Athletic. Entry is just $10 and will include free water and heart-healthy snacks, two hours of non-stop Zumba fun, educational and fun giveaways from the American Heart Association, and limited edition Go Red For Women tees for sale for just $5.  Tickets will be available soon at all Aspen Athletic locations and the American Heart Association offices at 1111 9th Street in Des Moines.  For more information contact: Aspen Athletic Clubs .

Saturday, February 11: The American Heart Association's annual Greater Des Moines Heart Ball will be held Saturday, February 11, 2012. The Heart Ball features silent and live auctions, dinner and entertainment.
Please join the 2012 Heart Ball Chairs, Susan Bunz and Julie Ross, to celebrate: our work and mission; our donors and volunteers; and — most importantly — the lives saved and improved because of everyone’s effort. The Heart Ball promises to be an engaging evening of fun and passion bringing community and philanthropic leaders together.
The 2011 event raised funds to support cardiovascular research and education. In the past five years the American Heart Association has funded 96 studies at 2 Iowa institutions at a cost of $9.7 million. We are working every day to make Des Moines a healthy community, improve your family's health, ensure quality health care, deliver emotional support to patients and find ways to end heart disease and stroke.
We appreciate the generosity and support of all our community and corporate partners. If you are interested in supporting the Heart Ball as a sponsor, attendee or auction item donor, please contact Brooke Foster, (515) 246-4567.

 Sunday, February 19:  The American Heart Association & the Iowa Energy will provide the first 500 heart disease and stroke survivors who respond to this special offer with a FREE ticket & Red Out T-shirt for the Sunday, Feb. 19th Energy home game at Wells Fargo Arena.

This special offer is to recognize your courage as a survivor and raise awareness for our nation's No. 1 and No. 3 killers.

Friends and family can also purchase this special Red Out package for just $10 per person (includes game ticket & special Red Out T-shirt).

Download the certificate.
Certificates must be redeemed, either by mail, fax or phone-in by Friday, February 3rd at 5pm. Order early for best seats!

All tickets will be picked up at the Wells Fargo Arena Ticket Office (south end of the building) on game day - Sunday, Feb. 19th beginning at 3pm. You will then pick up your T-shirts at the American Heart Association table on the main concourse.

9th Annual Hawkeye AOMCI Antique Outboard Motor Show

Saturday, February 11, 2012

8am-2pm

Kennedy Marine

4625 6th Street SW

Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

(Across From Hawkeye Downs)

Hosted by the Hawkeye Chapter of the Antique Outboard Motor Club

Dry Meet

Motor Displays

*Kennedy Marine Garage Sale*

Miscellaneous parts and accessories for motors and boats.

For More Information Call (319) 848-4394

Streamline Kids Presents A Night at the Museum: Mardi Gras Style!

This is a great opportunity for individuals, couples and groups to get out, have a great time and raise money for our local children in need.

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Saturday, February 18th: At the African American Museum, 55 12th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa from 6pm-10pm. A fund raising event benefiting Streamline Kids, a local children’s charity that helps children of disadvantaged families participate in fun, structured extracurricular activities such as youth sports, dance lessons, music lessons, martial arts or any other program that the child may be passionate about.

Tickets are $35 each $60 for two and 10 for $250.

This will be a fun filled evening with Live music from Kalimbaman Scotty Hayward and from The Workaholicks, a taste of N’awlins by Bata’s Catering and Restaurant which includes Gumbo Pockets, Thai Meatballs, Alligator kabobs and more. Food and Drinks are FREE! Multiple raffle items and door prizes.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.StreamlineKids.org/tickets.htm or by contacting Streamline Kids via mail: PO Box 401, Marion, Iowa 52302. Enclose a check or money order for the amount and any instructions you may have and Streamline Kids will have your tickets for you at Will Call at the door.

If you have any questions you can send an email to Ashley at

Ashley@StreamlineKids.org  

UIVA Warrior Challenge and 5K

Saturday, March 31, 2012 in Iowa City, IA at Hawkeye Recreation Fields - Hawkeye Park Drive

• 5K Run/Walk at 10:00 AM

  » $20.00 Non Military Civilians (through 3/29 at 11:59 PM US/Central)
  » $15.00 Current and Former Military Members (through 3/29 at 11:59 PM US/Central)



• Warrior Challenge at 8:00 AM

  » $30.00 Non Military Civilians (through 3/29 at 11:59 PM US/Central)
  » $25.00 Current and Former Military Members (through 3/29 at 11:59 PM US/Central)

* click here for fee information

The Race

• Participants can sign up for either the 5k Run/walk or the Warrior Challenge
• Both Events Are open to the public

5K Run/Walk

All levels of runners and walkers are encouraged to come out and take part in this great race

Warrior Challenge

• Test yourself and your friends by
  Competing in the warrior challenge!
• Sign up for the warrior challenge in teams of 4
• Teams will compete in 3 strongman military style challenges
  1. Tire flip
  2. Stone carry
  3. Weighted 5k run
  
  
  Warrior Challenge Specifics:
• Each team member will compete in each event.
  
  1st Event
• The clock will start and the first teammate will individually flip a large semi tire down 25 yds and back, then the next teammate and so on until everyone has gone.
  
  2nd Event
• There will be cinder blocks at the one end of the 25 yd strip.
• Each team will start at the opposite end and send one teammate at a time to go down, grab a cinder block, and bring it back.
• Teams will keep doing this until they move all of their cinder blocks.
  
  3rd Event
• Event three is the Weighted 5k
• This event is completed in joint with the 5k Run/Walk
• When a Warrior Challenger signs up they get a t-shirt and a backpack. They'll use the backpack and carry an extra 25lbs in the 5k with all the other 5k runners.
• Warrior Challenge teams in the 5k must finish as a team.
  
  There will be specific rules and guidelines for the Warrior Challenge released at packet pick-up

Packet Pick-Up & Hotel Reservations

Packet pick up and registration will be on
Friday, March 30th, 2012, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM
-At-
Sheraton Iowa City Hotel
210 South Dubuque St
Iowa City, IA 52240

For hotel reservations, these must be made by Wednesday, February 29, 2012.
To book a room participants can call (800) 848-1335 and request the UIVA Warrior Challenge discounted rate or book online at https://www.starwoodmeeting.com/StarGroupsWeb/booking/reservation?id=1112237128&key=2C593

Race Day

• Race day registration on March 31st, 2012 will be for the 5k Run/Walk only From 7:00-9:30 AM.
• Race day packet pick-up will be available for the Warrior Challenge from 7:00-7:45 AM
• Race day packet pick-up will be available for the 5k Run/Walk from 7:00-9:30 AM

Race Start

8:00 AM - Warrior Challenge Events begin
10:00 AM - 5K race start
11:00 AM - Awards ceremony

Race Course & Location

Warrior challenge events, race start & finish, and awards will take place at:

Hawkeye Recreation Fields
Hawkeye Park Drive
Iowa City, Iowa

Race course will run out of the University rec fields, through Ashton cross country course, and onto Iowa City Paved trail heading back to the rec fields.

Event Day Parking

• Participants are encouraged to use the campus system to get to the hawkeye recreation fields on race day
• Limited parking will be available in the hawklot commuter lot

Accommodations

The Sheraton Iowa City hotel is the official hotel of the UIVA Warrior Challenge & 5k Run/Walk. The Sheraton Iowa city hotel is offering participants a discounted rate. Book your room today by calling 1-800-848-1335 and asking for the Warrior Challenge discounted rate or book online at https://www.starwoodmeeting.com/StarGroupsWeb/booking/reservation?id=1112237128&key=2C593

Post Race Activities

• Post race meal and awards following the 5K
• 5K Awards ceremony will include age group and overall awards
• Warrior challenge awards will include a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd overall teams

Questions?

For all questions and concerns please contact the Race Director:

Michael Considine
email: michael-considine@uiowa.edu
ph: 712.301.8024 

The family and friends of Debra Hoeger will be holding a live and silent auction fundraising event on February 18, 2012.  All of the funds raised from this event will be used to support Deb and her family with her fight against Stage 4 Breast Cancer. 

We're in the process of collecting merchandise and donations for the event, and I'm writing to request your assistance in making this benefit a success.  By donating, you'll be making a tax deductible contribution that will help Deb and her family.

Donors will be listed on the event program, and the merchandise you give will be on display throughout the event. 

Won't you consider donating an item to support Deb and her fight against breast cancer.  You may reach me at debrahoegerbenefit@hotmail.com, contact number: 319-573-6232 (Brooke: Deb's daughter) if you decide to participate in this opportunity.

Sincerely,

Debra Hoeger Benefit Coordinators 

Houby Days,  Friday, Saturday, Sunday, May 18 – 20, is the annual celebration of the mushroom.  Fun for the whole family. Enjoy the parade, sample Czech & Slovak cuisine, shop local vendors, listen to traditional Czech & Slovak music. Learn traditional May Pole dances.  Attend the National Bohemian, Moravian, & Slovak Folk Dance Festival featuring the Lipa Slovak Folk Dancers from St Paul, Mn. And the puppet show featuring the Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre Company.

Girl Scouts Gear up to Sell“Cookies NOW!”

Every Cookie’s Mission: To Help Girls Do Great Things

DES MOINES, Iowa – Wait no more, cookies lovers! Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa is excited to announce the 2012 cookie season has arrived. Kicking off on Jan. 13^th, this year’s cookie program, Cookies NOW! offers a new experience for cookie customers, while fulfilling the mission of the program, “To help girls do great things.”

For the first time ever, Girl Scout cookie customers will have the chance to get their hands on those famous cookies without the wait! As part of this year’s direct sale format, girls will carry packages of Girl Scout cookies with them from Jan. 13^th to March 4^th as they sell from door to door, at cookie booths, in cookie caravans, to friends and family, and throughout their neighborhoods.

Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa switched to a direct sales format after volunteers, parents and customers asked the council to simplify the cookie program logistics. The expectation is that girls and customers alike will benefit from the new format, which allows for instant cookie delivery.

“It’s a win, win situation all around. We are so happy we were able to make the change this year,” Product Program Director Marylee Rehm said. “Our hope is that our new program will help increase sales and provide customers with their favorite cookies instantaneously.”

In addition to providing customers with tasty treats, the Girl Scout Cookie Program truly helps girls do great things. For years, the sale has generated more than $700 million for girls and communities nationwide.  A portion of each box a Girl Scout sells stays with their local troop and can be used for programs and activities offered by Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa.

The sale has also helped fund projects and feed soldiers around the world. Funding can help girls purchase school supplies for their classmates in need or donate clothes to victims of abuse or neglect. From funding a field trip to the nation’s capital to building a new campsite, each cookie sold empowers girls to make better choices by impacting the lives of the people around them.

2012 Girl Scout Cookie Details:

Cookie Pricing

Each box of Girl Scout Cookies costs $3.50. The cookies have zero trans-fat and have no preservatives or artificial coloring.

Cookie Varieties

The eight cookies available in 2012 include Thin Mints, thin chocolate wafers dipped in a rich chocolaty coating with a burst of pure peppermint; Caramel deLites, vanilla cookies drenched in caramel, sprinkled with toasted coconut  and laced with cocoa strips; Peanut Butter Patties, crispy vanilla cookies layered with real peanut butter and blanketed with a chocolate coating; Shortbread, a traditional favorite with a buttery, light flavor;; Peanut Butter Sandwich, smooth peanut butter sandwiched between crunchy oatmeal cookies; Thanks-A-Lot, heart-warming shortbread cookies dipped in a rich fudge and topped with an embossed thank you message in one of five languages; Lemonades, savory slices of shortbread with a refreshing tangy lemon icing; and our new Shout Outs, light and crisp, these Belgian-style caramelized cookies are a sensibly sweet treat.

Fun Facts about Girl Scout Cookies in the Greater Iowa Region

-         Best Seller overall in Iowa is the Thin Mint. However, the Sioux City area prefers the

       Peanut Butter Patties.

-         Last year, the Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa sold more than 1,500,000 boxes of cookies.

-         The first national Girl Scout Cookie sale was held in 1936.

About Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa:

Serving girls in Central and Western Iowa, NE Nebraska and SE South Dakota, Girl Scouts

of Greater Iowa provides leadership programming to over 15,000 girls and 4,000 adult

volunteers. It is a great time to be a Girl Scout and you can sign up at any time during the

year. To find out more about our program, please visit our website at

www.girlscoutsiowa.orgor call us at 800-342-8389.  

About GSUSA:

Founded in 1912, Girl Scouts of the USA is the preeminent leadership development organization for girls with 3.6 million girl and adult members worldwide. Girl Scouting is the leading authority in girls’ healthy developments and builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. The organization serves girls from every corner of the United States and its territories. Girl Scouts of the USA also serves American girls and their classmates attending American or international schools overseas in 90 countries. For more info on how to join, volunteer, reconnect or donate to Girls Scouts, call (800) GSUSA 4 U (800-478-7248) or visit www.girlscouts.org.  

Contact:

Tammy Tronvold

Committee Chair/Gala Chair, Cedar Rapids Area Committee

Make-A-Wish Foundation of Iowa

(319) 560-3505

tammy@eells-tronvold.com

Tim O’Neil

Public Relations Chair, Cedar Rapids Area Committee

Make-A-Wish Foundation of Iowa

(319) 389-9461

timoneil@q.com

5^th Annual Uncork-A-Wish Wine/Beer Tasting and Auction Event

Cedar Rapids, IA – Join the Make-A-Wish Foundation^®of Iowain the Hallagan Education Center at Mercy Medical Center, for our 5^thAnnual Wine/Beer Tasting and Auction event to be held on February 25^th, 2012.  This year’s event, hosted by former Iowa Hawkeye Lew Montgomery, starts at 7:00 pm. Enjoy an evening of live jazz, fine wines, and tantalizing appetizers as you peruse great silent auction experiences, memorabilia, gift certificates, baskets and other items and then finish the evening with a live auction. You can help make the special wish of a local child with a life-threatening medical condition come true by attending the event for just $45 per ticket in advance and $50 at the door.

Please call Tammy at 319-560-3505 for more information or to RSVP and help usShare the Power of a Wish^®.

If anyone has ever volunteered before to work with Special Olympics, you know how fun and rewarding it can be.

Special Olympics needs our help on SAT March 10^th to assist the Olympians with their

Mid-Winter Tournament at the Field House in Iowa City

There are 5 different sporting events that day:

Cheerleading, Basketball Games, Power Weightlifting, Gymnastics & Basketball Skills

Cindy Becker is the Event Director for the basketball skills portion of the competition.

Basketball skills is for the lower functioning athletes & consists of 3 skills:

Target Passing

10M SpeedDribble

Spot Shot

We are looking for 60 – 70 volunteers from approx 9am to 3pm.

Bring your friend, bring your spouse, pass the word - I need volunteers!!  (should be at least 12 yrs old, but see me)

You don’t even have to know anything about basketball!!!

This is a really fun & enjoyable event to be at – just ask those that did it last year!!!

A FREE lunch will be provided, as well as free parking & a free t-shirt!

Please contact Cindy Becker if you would like to volunteer or receive additional information!

319-790-6182 (w)

Cynthia.becker@windstream.com

More than 230 rare works by one of the world’s most famous artists will be on view for the opening exhibition at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids, Iowa from July 14, 2012 through December 31, 2012.  Alphonse Mucha : Inspirations of Art Nouveau, features paintings, jewelry, Sculptures, and lithographs, is coming from the Mucha Foundation in Prague and London. Not since 1999 has an exhibit of this size and caliber appeared in the United States and it is the first of its type in the Midwest region.  

Did you know…….

25% of 2-1-1 callers need health care for themselves or for their children

A recent Bloomberg articles states there are more & more Americans skipping medical care to save money.

Our children do not need to go without health insurance.  hawk-i insurance covers children of working parents.  Please take a look at the income guidelines.  hawk-I provides excellent health coverage and includes preventative care.  Affordable health coverage can lead to more money in the family budget for children’s extra curricular activities, family activities and peace of mind.  Relief for the working!

Go to www.hawk-i.org for more information or to apply.  Or contact me and I would be happy to assist you.  I am also available to provide presentations or hard copy materials.

Thanks you.

Center Point-Urbana Children's Theatre will be presenting their production of "Bigger Than Life" at Knox Church! 

The production is geared toward elementary aged children – show runs approximately 40 minutes.  Free and open to all in the community to attend!

Monday, February 20th

5:30pm - light meal served

Show will start approximately at 5:45pm!

KnoxChurch is located at 1525 Hollywood Blvd NE in Cedar Rapids, IA

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – December 12, 2011 – The City of Cedar Rapids invites area residents and visitors to complete an online survey to provide input on the development of a City welcome sign along I-380. The sign will be used to enhance the city’s image and increase its visibility to interstate travelers.

The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. Users are provided an opportunity to rank signs from around the country and describe what they like best about those they rank highest. A link to the survey can be found under City Announcements on the City’s home page, http://www.CityofCR.com.

In addition to the survey, City Council has appointed a task force to champion the project, and Kirkwood Community College students and instructors are also assisting in the planning process. Construction of the welcome sign is expected to begin in late spring 2012. For more information, please contact the Community Development Department at (319) 286-5041. 

• It's that time of year again, time to start thinking again about softball! The 5th Annual Snowball Charity Softball Tournament is set for Saturday, February 11th at Mercer Park fields in Iowa City. We have the use of two fields this year which gives us the opportunity t...o open the tournament to more teams which should keep the games moving quickly. The 1st Avenue Club (it's a bar) has graciously offered to open early for us on Saturday and is willing enough to deal with the softball mess we we will undoubtedly create. This year's Snowball Charity tournament's recipient is the Red Shamrock Foundation. The Red Shamrock Foundation is an Iowa City based non-profit Organization that raises awareness and funding for research and specialized care of post cancer patients and their family. To find more information on this organization or other post-cancer care needs please visit www.redshamrock.org or like them on Facebook.

You could be on your way to an NFL city next season with Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity's Home Team Huddle!!

HERE’S THE GAMEPLAN:

1. Plan to host a party for your friends and family on Sunday, February 5 and enjoy the year’s biggest football game together.

2. Notify your guests beforehand that you’ll be collecting donations for Habitat for Humanity at halftime.

3. Become eligible to win fabulous prizes! One lucky party host or attendee will receive our grand prize—an NFL weekend getaway to a city of his/her choice next season!!!

Register by Friday, February 3 to receive your Home Team Party Pack, complete with an official T-shirt and promotional materials!

(319) 366-4485 • HabitatFootball.com

Don’t be left on the sidelines...join the Huddle today! 

Frozen Few Snowmobile Club is hosting 3 Snocross (sno-x) races at Hawkeye Downs.
The dates are Jan 14th, 28th and Feb 11th.
We are a non profit organization and always donate a portion of our proceeds to charity.
For more information please see: http://www.frozenfewsnowmobileclub.com/snox.htm

Nathan Johnson,
Frozen Few Board Member
 

Frozen Few Snowmobile Club is hosting 3
Snocross (sno-x) races at Hawkeye Downs.
The dates are Jan 14th, 28th and Feb 11th.
For more information please see: http://www.frozenfewsnowmobileclub.com/snox.htm  

Park Cedar Rapids is pleased to announce a new partnership with Neighborhood Transportation Service, Inc. (NTS) to bring complimentary parking shuttle service to downtown Cedar Rapids. The new shuttle program was created to provide safe and warm transportation for parkers using more remote parking facilities during the cold winter months.

Shuttle service will begin on Monday, November 7 at 6:30 a.m. and will run 15 minute loops during peak morning and afternoon commute times (6:30-8:30 a.m. and 3:30-5:30 p.m.). The shuttle will service Lot 44, along with the 3rd Avenue, 4th Avenue and Five Seasons parking ramps, making six stops throughout the central business district:

o       Northwest corner of 4th Avenue ramp on 4th Avenue SE
o       Corner of 3rd Street and 5th Avenue
o       Corner of 1st Avenue and 4th Street
o       Corner of 2nd Street and 2nd Avenue
o       Corner of 1st Street and 3rd Avenue
o       1st Street SE in front of the Great America Building

Each shuttle stop will be marked with A-frame signs that include route information and location specific shuttle service times. The new downtown parking shuttle program is made possible by the generous support of Presenting Sponsor Park Cedar Rapids, Route Sponsor Intermec Inc. and Supporting Sponsor Iowa Health System.

Shuttle service will be available Monday through Friday through April 30, 2012.

For more information about the new downtown parking shuttle service, please visit the Park Cedar Rapids website at parkcedarrapids.com.

 

STARTING NOV. 1ST, 2011, HACAP WILL BE ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR LOW-INCOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE.

APPLICATION PERIOD WILL END APRIL 30, 2012.

APPLICANTS WILL NEED TO FIT WITHIN LOW-INCOME CONSTRAINTS AND WILL NEED TO PROVIDE PROOF OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS FOR ALL MEMBERS OF THE HOUSEHOLD AS WELL AS PROOF OF INCOME FOR THE LAST THREE MONTHS OR FOR THE LAST CALENDAR YEAR.

THIS PROGRAM WILL HELP PAY A PORTION OF A HOUSEHOLD'S TOTAL ENERGY COSTS AND WILL PROVIDE SUPPLEMENTAL ASSISTANCE BASED UPON SEVERAL FACTORS INCLUDING INCOME, HOUSEHOLD SIZE, DWELLING TYPE AND TYPE OF HEATING FUEL, AMONG OTHERS.  PLEASE VISIT WITH YOUR LOCAL HACAP OFFICE FOR INCOME MAXIMUM GUIDELINES.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT YOUR LOCAL AREA HACAP OFFICE OR CALL 1-866-469-2211 OR THE UNITED WAT 2-1-1 HELP LINE, MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 8AM TO 5PM.

e First Annual Gunneson Rough Stock School has been scheduled for April 27-29, 2012 in

Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The students who attend will receive first class instruction from 6 time

MSRA Saddle Bronc Champion and IFR qualifier, Roger Gunneson. The goal of the school is to

provide the best training and experience for our students. We are able to work with all skill

levels, from those who have never been on a horse to riders with years of experience, everyone

will benefit. I invite you to look over the below information regarding all that this school will

offer. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have. Hope to see you in

April!

School Format

The school will be held over three days at the Moore indoor arena located in Cedar

Rapids, Iowa. Class times will be from 8 AM to 5 PM each day, with lunch provided. The first

hour of every day will be a classroom session, where a student may view their ride and receive

instruction for further improvement. Roger will cover the following throughout the duration of

the school:

Mental and Physical Preparedness

The intensity of this sport requires a successful rider to possess a mental toughness and

physical readiness to take whatever is thrown their way. Students will learn:

* How to maintain a positive mindset during the moment of competition and stay relaxed

regardless of the situation.

* The significance of visualization and how to visualize the most effective images that

positively impact our mind and muscle memory.

* How to set and achieve goals.

* How to physically prepare oneself for competing with a balance of cardio, weight, and

stretching, tips for mastering technique, and how to create winning habits.

Ground Drills

The proper technique on a horse begins with proper technique on the ground. During this

session, students will learn the following:

* The significance of a good foundation using spur boards in order to allow the student to

work on correct position, spurring, and timing before ever climbing on a horse.

* Correct starting positions to leave the chute

* How to properly handle horses that fight the chute or are difficult to get out on

* Muscle memory, muscle memory, muscle memory!!

Students will be offered an information packet, video analysis of their rides on DVD,

school t-shirt, gifts from the sponsors, Cowboy Church on Sunday morning, and free

lunch throughout the school.

We are very excited and hope to see all levels at this year's school! Please contact us with

any questions or comments.

Roger Gunneson

r.gunneson@gmail.com