Geographic Alliance of Iowa
Geography News
Volume 27 Issue 2 Fall 2004
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In This Issue 2 Iowa’s Specialized Agriculture Workshop/ Settling Mississippi River Communities Workshop 3 Conflict on the Plains: Indian Wars and Civil Rights 5 Wagon Wheel Imprints on the Landscape 6 Geography in Action! The Sound of Place 7 Lewis & Clark - Discovering Iowa’s Missouri River Valley
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Corner Kay E. Weller, GAI Coordinator As I write I am reflecting on how much has changed within our organization since I came to Iowa in 1996 and how many wonderful and interesting people I now call "friends." So many of you have enriched my life and I appreciate the opportunity to interact with you. Some of you I see quite regularly while others I see only rarely. There are so very many of you that I cannot mention all of your contributions to the GAI and to my life. However, there is someone that I would like to specifically thank for her contribution to the GAI. That person is Helen Finken. Helen Finken was very instrumental in the early days of the GAI, as I understand it. She told me last spring that she helped select the GAI logo. It wasn’t until a few months into my service as coordinator that I had the opportunity of meeting Helen. I found a woman who is dedicated to social studies and geography specifically. She was the Coordinator of the Iowa Geographic Bee. As I helped with that first Bee I was struck by her energy and love of children. What a lucky school district (Iowa City) who has her on its faculty. As the years went by Helen continued to motivate youngsters in our state. She always had a smile and comforting words for those nervous participants at the annual Bee. They could not help but go away feeling good about themselves. Helen, thank you for your service to the Iowa Geographic Bee! You did a wonderful job. The new coordinator will have a hard act to follow. Anne Hoeper of Davenport has accepted the responsibility as Coordinator of the Iowa Geographic Bee. We extend to her a hearty welcome. Anne’s students have participated in the Bee most years. Rest assured, Anne, the GAI is here to support your work as Coordinator in any way we can. Anne has been very active in the GAI in many ways and we thank her for all she has done for us. This morning as I walked from the parking lot I noticed how cool it is and thought how soon we will host our winter workshop. Look for information inside regarding the winter workshop and summer opportunities. The Lewis & Clark workshop promises to be outstanding. It is being coordinated by Steve Wymore (Council Bluffs) and Don Peterson (Marshalltown). I look forward to seeing you at the winter workshop and for the Lewis & Clark workshop next summer.
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By Marilynn Stabenow Usually when agriculture is mentioned, many people think of corn, soybeans, pigs and cattle. On June 10 and 11, a group of 30 teachers boarded the bus at UNI for a two-day class on other types of agriculture within Iowa. The group toured a variety of farms—many on marginal lands not suitable for the regular types of agriculture. We visited a ten-acre family farm that is now growing herbs and fruit, a tree farm harvesting and planting trees, and an organic farm run by the Abbey near Dubuque. Four farms specialized in agriculture related to animals—The Lucky Acres Goat Dairy (only in production six months), a quail farm that sells 11,000 quail eggs each week, Hansen’s Dairy Farm that produces milk that is only pasteurized, and D & D Worm Farm where worms produce compost that is sold. All the types of agriculture provided a different view of land use in Iowa. The group had several other agriculturally related activities as well. We learned about programs available to the farmers while visiting the Big Springs Trout Hatchery. The group toured Millstream Brewery in the Amanas that uses agricultural products. We also were fortunate to taste a variety of products produced at several different locations, including mouth-watering caramels and fresh milk. It was a great two days of learning, friendship, and food.
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hat a great summer spent with the Geographic Alliance! From the diversity of agriculture in Iowa to the settling of Mississippi communities along the mighty Mississippi River; 30 educators became well versed in Iowa’s geography. Coordinating this adventure on June 13-14 was Dr. Kay Weller, with co-directors Andrea and Roy Liljegren of LeClaire leading the way. We started our day with Dr. Weller distributing participant books and materials relating to the Mississippi River. We boarded the "Twilight Riverboat" with great anticipation in LeClaire. Throughout the cruise up the river, we had sessions on topics such as "Why people came to Iowa” and a “History of the Mississippi River.” We looked specifically at the settlements of cities from Keokuk to Dubuque which included the crossing of the river, social life on the river and the early Mississippi River era immigrants coming into Iowa. Social life began with the canoe as a crossing vessel and then the flat boat ferries would barge down the river with poles. Next was the use of the horse ferry in which the horse would be attached to a treadmill. This was in the Bloomington and Muscatine areas. Steam ferries were introduced and made the crossing time shorter (5 minutes at a rate of 5-10 cents with fees doubling after sunset). The steamboat started docking at Davenport at the rate of $1.00 and no frills. Moving further south in Iowa, Keokuk became known as the "Gateway to Iowa" on the river. We reached the point of departure for the day, with lodging at the Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena, Illinois. We experienced the ride of a ski lift in the summer. What a great view of the land and vegetation native to the area! We even had the opportunity to view the river wildlife as we traveled throughout the day. On day 2, we looked at the city structure of Galena. Did you know that early on the city was built with wood? After a city-wide fire, the city officials passed a code in which future buildings were to be built with brick. The group did a walking tour of the city and we were off to the river again. Boarding the "Twilight" we started with a discussion on the system of dams on the river, how they work, and the economic impact the river has on the communities of the Mississippi. Geographically speaking, we also looked at the Great Madrid Earthquake of 1811-12. This was one of the longest earthquakes with 2000 aftershocks where bells rang as far away as Boston, Massachusetts. This quake in the Midwest created the boot heel of Missouri, with six towns from Arkansas to Missouri ceasing to exist. Time passed so quickly on the return cruise that it was soon time for dinner, which meant we were near the end of the trip. What a great time! Next time it is offered, check it out.
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| Dates: | January 28-29 and February 18-19, 2005 | |
| Location: | Ramada Inn – W. 4th & Commercial – Waterloo | |
| Features:
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TC presentations and topics for
all grade levels David Chalfant and Lyle Hutchens – Plains artifacts Scott Peters – UNI Political Science professor – Brown v. Topeka Board of Education Other featured speakers on civil rights Indian Wars Mormon Trail – featuring an authentic handcart |
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| Advantages:
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Completion in 2 weekend
sessions Inclusive price – lodging, food and 1 hour UNI credit Professional presentations by Kansas workshop participants Interdisciplinary connections for elementary and secondary teachers |
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| Benefits: |
Earn 1 hour college credit when
attending both weekends Relevant materials, plus relaxing and informal weekend |
| Cost:
January 28-29, 2005: |
February 18-19, 2005: |
FOR COMMUTERS ONLY: Special $49 fee for each weekend By January 7, 2005 for January workshop/$69 After By January 28, 2005 for February workshop/$69 After Both weekends by January 7, 2005: $98/$118 After |
| Mr. ____ Ms.
____ Grade Level(s) Taught: __________ Name_______________________________________ Home Address__________________________________ City____________________ State____ Zip__________ Phone__________________ Fax__________________ E-mail______________________________________ ____ Check here if you do not want the above information included on a roster distributed to participants. ____ Check here if you have any special needs, including dietary. We’ll call to discuss how we can best meet your needs.
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*Enrollment is limited.
Registrations are taken on a first-come, first-served basis, with
registration confirmed when payment is received.
____ REGISTER ME: Regular registration - Double occupancy room ____ PRIVATE ROOM REQUESTED: I would like my own room and have included an additional $30 per night for each weekend. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: ____ I’m interested in receiving 1 hour UNI credit PAYMENT INFORMATION: ____ Make check payable to: UNI Geographic Alliance of Iowa ____ P.O. or Requisition #__________________________ |
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| The Geographic
Alliance of Iowa requests this information for the sole purpose of
registration for this program. We do not routinely release any of this
information to anyone outside our institution without express permission. We
do ask that you fill out all the registration items that apply to you.
The University of Northern Iowa is an equal opportunity educator and employer with a comprehensive plan for affirmative action. |
In late, July the GAI coordinator joined Teacher Consultant Rosemarie Deselares for a few days in her home town of Nürnberg, Germany. Rosemarie has retired from teaching in Department of Defense Dependents School at Bamberg, Germany. She participated in our GAI Institute in 1998 at Cedar Rapids. Kay and Rosemarie had a glorious time reminiscing and visiting about what is happening in Iowa and Germany. Rosemarie spends much of her time caring for her Mother who lives in an assisted care facility near her apartment. She still visits Bamberg Elementary where Carmen Nieto continues to teach. In addition, Rosemarie takes bus tours throughout Europe when the opportunity presents itself. Not long ago she visited Italy, her favorite vacation spot.
Rosemarie took Kay for an OSAE in Nürnberg’s "old town." She lives very close to this historic center of the city making it easy for her to enjoy history on a daily basis Nürnberg is the site of Hitler’s replica of the Roman Coliseum. The stadium now houses a wonderful documentation of the growth and history of the Nazi party and Hitler’s rise to dictator. Kay and Rosemarie walked to Hitler’s reviewing stand where Kay climbed to the top and stood in the square designated as the place Hitler reviewed his troops and delivered speeches.
Kay and Rosemarie attended the Circus Roncalli. Much to our surprise there were no animal acts. This cultural experience was so much fun. We also visited a cave much like Cave of the Winds in Colorado.
OSAEs, good friends, and great scenery made for a memorable visit to Nurnberg for the coordinator. Thanks, Rosemarie.
Wagon Wheel Imprints on the Landscape Workshop
by Brent Zirkel
uring the week of June 21, 2004, I along with nearly a dozen others traveled across Iowa to western Kansas and then back on a seminar sponsored by the Geographic Alliance of Iowa (GAI). We were fortunate to have several knowledgeable presenters throughout the trip as well as "Queen Kay" Weller to organize and bring to fruition what was for me an eye-opening experience. After passing through the Loess Hills, we began our adventure in Council Bluffs, Iowa. There we learned about the early settlements called "Winter Quarters" by pioneer members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (also known as Mormons) on their trek westward in the last 1840’s. Steve Wymore was our facilitator during the two days we spent in Council Bluffs, and Omaha, Nebraska. Steve, a longtime member of the GAI, was gracious enough to guide us through the Western Historic Trails Center, the Mormon Tabernacle, and the LDS Visitor Center and Cemetery in Omaha. As we traveled farther west to Kay Weller’s hometown of Hill City, Kansas, we discussed the physical geography we observed and the significance of the sites that we would visit over the course of the next few days. When we arrived, we met Dave Chalfant, our next guide and guru of anything having to do with the area. Dave showed us his personal collection of artifacts that he had stored in his home and began to enlighten us on the art of research and archeology dealing with early European and Native American settlements. Dave also owns a buffalo ranch and allowed members of the group to literally roam with the buffalo and shoot some of his rare firearms that he has collected from the |
period. Dave was big with hands-on experiences. Little did we know that we would be firing a replica of a civil war cannon, digging for Upper Republican Indian artifacts, crossing the plains trying to avoid rattlesnakes, and learning how to create our own stone artifacts. Our time spent with Dave was truly memorable, and we owe him special thanks for the arrowheads, artifacts, buffalo jerky, and the experiences that he gave us. Kay Weller was our presenter during our return trip to Iowa. We visited Nicodemus, Kansas (the oldest continual settlement of African Americans in Kansas). We were surprised to receive so many materials at the Nicodemus National Historic Site that we can use to support reading in the content area in our classrooms as well as teach diversity. Kay seemed to know everyone in town and we were fortunate to be able to chat with Ora Wellington Switzer, the oldest living resident of Nicodemus (101 years old). Soon we were on the road again and began the last leg of our journey in Topeka, Kansas at the new Brown vs. Board of Education Museum. We looked at the geography of the case as we tracked the route that Linda Brown had to walk to arrive to school and the housing situation within Topeka. Our workshop was rich in information, experiences, and friends. As we learned, we played and as we played, we became closer. I really appreciated the opportunity to participate, and I think we all owe Kay and all our presenters a great deal of thanks. Kay’s efforts to make the workshop meaningful and enjoyable were flawless. The accommodations were great, the food was wonderful, and the wealth of experiences were well worth it. I look forward to future workshops and to reunite with my friends and associates in the GAI. |
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Geography In Action! The Sound of Place By Amber Lee Munson |
This summer I was fortunate enough to be one of 33 teachers from around the country to be selected to participate in the National Geographic Society’s Geography Action! Institute—Cultures: The Sound of Place from June 28-July 2, 2004.
The institute was held in Washington, D.C. I elected to drive from Iowa and enjoyed a one-woman road trip that included the institute as well as some serious visiting time with my relatives in Virginia and Ohio, which I thoroughly enjoyed and was a cultural experience of its own.
The theme of this year’s institute, Cultures: The Sound of Place, was to introduce us to the idea that culture may be experienced in many ways. To this end, we were exposed to many ideas that we could take back to our classrooms and use with our students in order that they may expand their thinking about cultures. We were given and trained to use professional quality audio equipment--our mission; to record the sounds from one zip code that we felt best represented the culture of our area. From these recordings, we must narrow them down to just three. These three will be posted to the National Geographic website to be linked to an interactive map. In addition, these sounds will be edited by a professional sound engineer from National Public Radio and filed with the Library of Congress
Obviously, this is a very ambitions project and will take all school year to complete. Each teacher was assigned a partner teacher from the group. The pairs will bounce ideas and sounds off each other in the process of choosing their sounds. In this process, the two classrooms will share their cultures. I am partnering with a 4th grade teacher in an urban Washington, D.C. school. My students are fired up and ready to start making sound maps
I would highly recommend attending one of these workshops. The National Geographic Society is a class act and it was the best professional growth experience I have had to date. I will keep everyone posted on the project as it progresses. Feel free to join us on the National Geographic Ed Net site http://www.ngsednet.org/communities.
Participants at the National Conservation Training Center in Shepherdstown, West Virginia during the summer of 2004.
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Coming Summer 2005
4 days and 3 nights workshop 2 hrs. UNI Credit
Can be combined with Winter 2005 Workshop Conflict on the Plains for 3 hrs. UNI Credit "Travel" the Missouri
River in the comfort of a bus.
Details available at a later date. |
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Geography News is a free publication of the GAI and produced with the support of the Department of Geography at the University of Northern Iowa. The Alliance is funded by a grant from the National Geographic Society. Permission is granted to reproduce any parts of the newsletter.
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| GAI Coordinator | Dr. Kay E. Weller |
| Associate Editor | Jane Gillen |
GAI Website: http://www.uni.edu/gai
Geographic Alliance of Iowa’s Calendar of Events
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October 2004 8- 9 ICSS – Council Bluffs 19-21 NCSS - Baltimore, MD 20-23 NCGE – Kansas City, MO |
November 2004
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December 2004 10 NGS Geographic Bee registration deadline 17 UNI Fall Semester ends |
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January 2005 10 UNI spring Classes begin 28-29 Conflict on the Plains: Indian wars to Civil |
February 2005 18-19 Conflict on the Plains: Indian
wars to |
March 2005 13-19 UNI Spring Break |
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April 2005 1 Iowa Geographic Bee – DMACC 8-10 Great Lakes Regional Social Studies |
May 2005 6 UNI Spring Semester ends |
June 2005 10-17 Passage to Alaska Cruise TBA Lewis & Clark: Discovering Iowa’s |
Geographic Alliance of Iowa
Department of Geography
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50614-0406
(319) 273-5952 or 273-2772
Toll free in Iowa 1-800-601-3899
