 On Sept. 9, 10, and 11, volunteers will work in pairs at assigned intersections to observe and record information about bikes and other active transportation. This effort will help guide decisions about future bike infrastructure on city streets, including an upcoming bollard-protected bike lane pilot project. Thanks to those who have already signed up, many volunteer shifts are already filled, but opportunities still exist to get involved. If you are interested in participating, fill out the online volunteer form.
 Last year, Iowa City embarked on a planning process in collaboration with two community organizations, the Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County and the Bike Library, to envision the unique role each might play as a Resilience Hub.
You can learn more about Resilience Hubs and future plans at the Bike Library, 1222 S. Gilbert Court, from 5-8 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 24. While there, get started on your own home preparedness kit with an assortment of free supplies to take with you, pick up one of the Resilience Hub zines created by Neighborhood Centers staff and Bike Library volunteers, and check out the new rooftop solar array. Leave inspired to help make Iowa City more ready for disruptions like extreme weather events.
 On Thursday, Sept. 25, at 6:30 p.m., join us for a double feature of two short films exploring sustainable innovation and the spirit of fearless curiosity.
The first film of the evening, Born Curious, explores the life of the explorer. As described by director Julia de Guzman, “it is in turns comedic and lyrical, tense and heartwarming and will inspire even the most timid among us to live braver and bolder every day.”
The second film, Green Buffalo, expIores efforts by the Lower Sioux Indian Community in Southern Minnesota to build affordable housing, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and expand employment opportunities within the community -- a triple win.
Enjoy these thought-provoking films in a community screening at Dream City, 611 Southgate Ave., along with free popcorn courtesy of FilmScene, and learn more about local connections to these efforts from United Action for Youth, the Great Plains Action Society, and Johnson County Conservation.
In Tending Iowa’s Land, local researcher and writer Cornelia Mutel offers a collection of essays and personal stories from experts and everyday people that probe the challenges and explore the pathways to a regenerative future for our natural environment.
Help give voice to these stories from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23, at the Lagoon Shelter House alongside the Iowa River near Hancher Auditorium, by signing up for a 20-minute shift to read a section of the book out loud. Or come to be recharged by hearing others amplify these essays vocally, then stick around to meet individuals and organizations helping put these principles into practice, including the 100 Grannies, Food and Water Watch, Iowa City Climate Advocates, and the Iowa Flood Center.
 Cornelia Mutel
Editor of Tending Iowa's Lands,
Climate Fest Presenter
 How do you take climate action?
I try to integrate climate-care into all my choices (food, transportation, clothing…). But my favorite action is roaming the native woodlands surrounding our rural home, eliminating invasive plants. The result: diverse healthy woods that are the best at storing carbon.
Why is climate action important to you?
Climate change is now attacking the elementary processes that nurture life on earth, including human life. Thus climate action is the most important step toward preserving a livable future.
What can others do to take climate action?
To avoid burnout, pick one topic or area that interests you. Learn more about it. And then act. Don’t forget to share what you’ve learned with others and with your legislators - spreading the word is critical!
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