HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-02-2012 Council Economic Development CommitteeCity Council Economic Development Committee
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
8:00 a.m.
Helling Conference Room
City Hall
1. Call to Order
2. Consider approval of minutes from the June 5, 2012 and June 12,
2012 Economic Development Committee meetings
3. Update on Creative Corridor efforts - Chuck Peters
4. Update on College/Gilbert Street RFP review process
5. Review concept plan for Sabin School property
6. Consider a recommendation for continued funding
(FY 2014, 15 and 16) of the City of Literature
7. Staff time
8. Committee time
9. Other business
10. Adjournment
PRELIMINARY
MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
JUNE 5, 2012
HELLING CONFERENCE ROOM, 8:00 A.M.
Members Present: Matt Hayek, Susan Mims, Michelle Payne
Staff Present: Wendy Ford, Jeff Davidson, Tracy Hightshoe, Tom Markus, Nick
Benson
Others Present: Rebecca Neades, Pat Shaver, Lee Hermiston, Bill Thomason,
Anna Stone, Andre Perry, Jan Weissmiller, Sherry Segerman
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
Hayek moved to recommend the request for continued Englert Theater funding in
FY14, with the intent to fund in FY15 and FY16, as well. Payne seconded the
motion. The motion carried 3-0.
Hayek moved to recommend the funding request from Prairie Lights as discussed.
Payne seconded the motion. The motion carried 3-0.
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Mims at 8:04 a.m. A.M.
WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS:
Chairperson Mims welcomed everyone and asked that those present introduce
themselves.
CONSIDER APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE MAY 22 2012 ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETINGS:
Ford noted that she has one correction to the minutes — to add the ending time of the
meeting (8:42 A.M.)
Payne moved to approve minutes from the May 22, 2012, meetings as amended.
Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3-0.
CONSIDER RECOMMENDATION FOR CONTINUED ENGLERT FUNDING IN FY14
BUDGET AND INTENT TO FUND IN FY15 AND 16:
Ford began the presentation for the Committee, noting that the executive director and
several board members for the Englert are present. At today's meeting, Andre Perry,
Executive Director of the Englert will present the annual report, which is a prerequisite to
to the July 2, 2012 disbursement of FY13 funds. Ford continued, stating that for the past
EDC Minutes, 6/5/12 1 p, t
PRELIMINARY
three years the Englert has requested that the City consider funding them at the same
level -- $50,000 — in upcoming budget cycles.
Continuing, Ford noted that she wanted to highlight a few things about the Englert. First,
she stated that the Englert now holds a mortgage on its own building, which is a
significant change from the past. Ford added that under Perry's leadership the Englert
has increased the efficiency of its operation and has become great managers of the
programming margins it realizes from each show. Staff's recommendation is to put
$50,000 in the FY14 budget for the Englert.
Andre Perry began by reviewing the annual report, noting that 2011 was a big year for
them. They were able to gain ownership of their building, among other things. Perry
then asked that Bill Thomason, the Englert's finance manager to give a brief overview to
the Committee. Thomason reviewed the financial standing of the Englert, noting how
they were able to pay off debt to CityScape and attain their own mortgage on the
building. Perry then continued, noting the increase in attendance to 51,000 in 2011. In
responding to a Member's question, Perry talked about projected attendance numbers
over the next several years, noting that with the University's music school project coming
online and eventually Hancher, these numbers may well decrease.
Perry continued, stating that the Englert acquired a new development director this past
summer. He spoke to the increase in the Friends of the Englert program since last May,
and how the director was instrumental in this. Thomason spoke briefly about some of
the capital replacements the Englert has seen and will likely see in the future, given the
age of the building.
Hayek moved to recommend the request for continued Englert Theater funding in
FY14, with the intent to fund in FY15 and FY16, as well.
Payne seconded the motion.
The motion carried 3-0.
Ford introduced Jan Weissmiller and Sherry Segerman with Prairie Lights. She noted
that a conversation began about a year ago regarding the challenges the bookstore
faced and how they could respond to the changing book market. Over the past year the
pair reviewed several options and formulated a plan that would require about $35,000
worth of investment. Ford noted some history of Prairie Lights and its nationwide
standing as "One of the Top Ten Best Bookstores" by U.S.A. Today. She noted that the
e-book market is the cornerstone to the plan, with a significant place in the store to be
dedicated to e-book sales. The popular second -floor cafe is another key area that is
slated for expansion, according to Ford. A third is to increase merchandise available in
the store, with museum -store quality gifts.
In staff's recommendation, Ford stated that they are requesting funding for a business
consultant who can help the bookstore maximize their investment as they move forward
with this plan. Staff is therefore recommending an Economic Development Assistance
Grant of $27,500, Upon completion of the business consultant's work, Ford noted that
EDC Minutes, 6/5/12 1 p.2
PRELIMINARY
when Prairie Lights reports on the consultant's outcomes, they could be eligible for
additional low interest loans in the future. She added that the City Manager can either
exercise his discretionary authority to go ahead and grant this request through the
Economic Development Opportunities Fund, or can send the request on to the full
Council.
Mims asked some general questions regarding the e-book market and how this would
work. The Prairie Lights' representatives responded to Members' questions, noting the
popularity and success of the e-book market across the nation. Hayek asked about the
cafe expansion and what this might look like. Payne then asked for some clarification on
the difference between the grant process and the low interest loan process. Ford briefly
explained the performance measures associated with the grant process; and then how
one might transition to needing a low interest loan later for inventory, for example. After
a brief discussion, Members stated that they are comfortable with Markus using his
authority as City Manager to grant this request.
Hayek moved to recommend the funding request from Prairie Lights as discussed.
Payne seconded the motion. The motion carried 3-0.
STAFF TIME:
Davidson noted that Towncrest is finally seeing some action and a developer will be
moving forward with a project out there. He also noted several important items on the
Council's agenda this evening. One is the Moss Green development by Pearson and
the other is the rezoning of the Sabin School property. Davidson continued, stating that
now that they know what the State legislature is doing with the TIF statute they will move
ahead with the expansion of the Urban Renewal Area south into the Riverfront
Crossings area. Davidson added that they have received a request from Southgate
Development for a smaller urban renewal area to the south of the Crossings
development by Camp Cardinal Road.
Continuing, Davidson noted that ICAD informed them that Iowa City's newer industrial
park is a finalist for a wind power -related business that is looking for a place to build.
Davidson shared that he was able to take a tour of the Vito's building recently and that
this project is coming along nicely. The discussion turned to the number of unused or
under -used second and upper floors in the downtown area. As Davidson noted, the cost
to bring these older buildings up to code can be a deterrent.
COMMITTEE TIME:
Hayek noted that they have a letter in their packet from the internal medicine group in
Towncrest that concerns him. Markus shared that they have been working with this
group and that progress has been made very recently.
ADJOURNMENT:
Hayek moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:00 A.M.
Payne seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3-0.
EDC Minutes, 6/5/12 I p.3
PRELIMINARY
Council Economic Development Committee
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2012
TERM
ti
w
w
w
NAME
EXP.
w
w
o
o
Michelle
01/02/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
Payne
Matt
01/02/13
X
X
X
O/
X
X
Hayek
E
Susan
01/02/13
X
X
X
X
X
X
Mims
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
EDC Minutes, 6/5/12 1 p.4
PRELIMINARY
MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
JUNE 12, 2012
HELLING CONFERENCE ROOM, 10:30 A.M.
Members Present: Matt Hayek, Susan Mims, Michelle Payne
Staff Present: Wendy Ford, Jeff Davidson, Tracy Hightshoe, Tom Markus,
Eleanor Dilkes, Nick Benson
Others Present: Phoebe Martin, Nancy Quellhorst, Kevin Digmann, Lee Hermiston,
Gregg Hennigan, Dave Drone, Mr. and Mrs. Don Burd
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
Hayek made the motion to recommend approval of the funding request from MDK
Development LLC for a Medical Office Building in the Towncrest Urban Renewal
Area. Payne seconded the motion. Motion carried 3-0.
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Mims at 10:30 A.M.
WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS:
Chairperson Mims welcomed everyone and asked that those present introduce
themselves.
AREA:
Tracy Hightshoe gave Members a brief history and update of the Towncrest urban
renewal area. The City contracted for financial analyses of development types and
design plans to incorporate likely development types. Consultants attended community
meetings, met neighbors and requested public input. Some of the consultants visited
individually with businesses and property owners in order to get a better idea of the
desired changes. After months of promoting the area to the local development
community, neighbors and property owners, staff approached Hodge Construction about
doing a catalyst project in the area, and a year and a half later, they presented this
proposal for consideration.
The proposal includes a medical office building at the corner of William St. and
Muscatine Ave. The plan would be to combine two parcels for one building that would
be sold as three commercial condominiums, according to Hightshoe. There would also
be a City -funded streetscape project along Williams Street, from Muscatine to Towncrest
Drive. Hightshoe noted that the developer is requesting $950,000 in financial assistance
for this project. She explained that this project is relatively costly because of the land,
building and business acquisition (the gas station), removal of the gas station's
underground tanks and demolition of existing structures.
EDC Minutes, 6/12/12 I p.I
PRELIMINARY
Hightshoe continued, stating that staff is recommending $950,000 in financial
assistance. Of this, $300,000 would be paid out of the Towncrest catalyst gap financing
fund. She then explained that the remaining $650,000 would be disbursed as certain
construction goals were achieved. Hightshoe then responded to questions from
Members.
Members spoke briefly about the idea of a multi -story building, but it was noted that the
parking requirements of the businesses purchasing the commercial condos preclude
building a multi -story building. Davidson noted that the idea of a 3-story and possibly
even a 4-story building is still being discussed, but for this initial project, the single story
is what was agreed to by those involved. The developer further explained how they
approached this project and why they are proposing this particular building. Members
noted that they are glad to see things moving forward in the Towncrest area and gave
their approval for this financial request.
Hayek made the motion to recommend approval of the funding request from MDK
Development LLC for a Medical Office Building in the Towncrest Urban Renewal
Area.
Payne seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3-0.
STAFF TIME:
Davidson made note of what Members can expect at their next Council meeting. He
also noted that Oaknoll has recently submitted a rezoning and comp plan amendment
request. This will be a significant project at the Oaknoll campus, with 69 units being
added.
COMMITTEE TIME:
Hayek noted that he received an email from one of the owners of Ace Hardware
recently, inquiring about what the City is going to do in the Sycamore Mall area. Hayek
stated that he responded, detailing the various infrastructure updates that have
occurred, and also noting upcoming projects in the area.
ADJOURNMENT:
Payne moved to adjourn the meeting at 10:45 A.M.
Hayek seconded the motion.
Motion carried 3-0.
EDC Minutes, 6/12/12 1 p.2
PRELIMINARY
Council Economic Development Committee
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2012
TERM
N
w
ca
-r,
w
a
NAME
EXP.
3
N
N
in
N
V
W
W
O
O
Michelle
01/02/14
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Payne
Matt
01/02/13
X
X
X
O/
X
X
X
Hayek
E
Susan
01/02/13
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Mims
Key.
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
EDC Minutes, 6/12/12 1 p.3
CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
To: City Council Economic Development Committee
From: Wendy Ford, Economic Development Coordinator
Date: September 26, 2012
Re. EDC Agenda item #6: City of Literature Funding request
The UNESCO City of Literature (Col-) has submitted a request for continued funding of $50,000
per year for the next three years, FY 14, 15 and 16. Upon designation by UNESCO, the City
granted $50,000 for each of three fiscal years, FY 10, 11 and 12. Since its founding, the COL
has grown considerably, adding programming, collaborations, and events that celebrate the
designation of Iowa City as a UNESCO City of Literature.
Programming and events hosted by the City of Literature create an economic impact by
attracting visitors to Iowa City who would not otherwise come and by creating events that
increase economic activity within the community. Two examples follow. Earlier this year, CoL
staged the first ever children's event, One Book, Two Book and attracted 3,000 attendees and
children's book authors from around the Midwest. The second annual One Book, Two Book
event is scheduled for January, 2012, and is expected to double in size. Also in 2013, the CoL
will also take over the management and organization of the Iowa City Book Festival, a four year
old event formerly operated by the University Libraries. The opportunities for growing both
festivals to attract visitors from across the Midwest will increase substantially.
The attached report highlights the activities of the City of Literature's past year and gives a view
forward to the coming year. City of Literature Executive Director, John Kenyon will be attending
your meeting to provide an overview of big goals for the coming year and to answer questions
you may have about the organization.
Funding for the CoL for FY 2010-13 has come from the Economic Development Division budget
in the past. Staff recommends continued funding for the City of Literature for FY 2014 and
continuing to reserve a "budget placeholder" for consideration in FY 2015 and 2016.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions.
Sept. 27, 2012
To the City Council Economic Development Committee:
The Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature organization would like to request
that the City of Iowa City continue its support of the City of Literature by
providing $50,000 annual support in Fiscal 2014, and to consider continuing
that level of support in Fiscal 2015 and Fiscal 2016.
Our mission is "to celebrate and support literature on a local, regional,
national and international level, connecting readers and writers through the
power of story." As our enclosed Fiscal 2012 Annual Report attests, we have
done that most effectively on a local level, and will continue to do so.
Our resources were used during the past year on programs like the One Book
Two Book children's literature festival, our Community Book Talk event,
Paul Engle Day recognition and much more. The efforts brought people to
town, helped to educate young people, formed connections among area
residents and promoted our city's vast and impressive literary heritage.
In Fiscal 2013, we will continue and enhance these programs, as well as add to
our offerings with events such as the Iowa City Book Festival, which comes
under our organization next year.
The support from the City of Iowa City is a vital part of our overall financial
resources, joining significant continued support from the University of Iowa,
as well as funding from the Cities of North Liberty and Coralville, the Iowa
City Public Library, Johnson County and the Iowa City Area Chamber of
Commerce.
I look forward to speaking with you about this request at your Oct. 2 meeting,
and would be happy to answer questions or provide more information at that
time.
Sincerely,
John Kenyon
Executive Director
IOWA CITY
,
UNESCO
CITY OF
President
Joshua Schamberger
Iowa City/Coralville Area CVB
Vice President
Carolyn Brown
Foundations in Learning, Inc.
Treasurer
Rod Sullivan
Johnson County Board of
Supervisors
At Large
Sally Mason
University of Iowa
Board
Susan Craig —Iowa City Public
Library
Lori Erickson - Author
Hugh Ferrer —University of Iowa
International Writing Program
Wendy Ford — City of Iowa City
Tom Gelman — Phelan, Tucker,
Mullen, Walker, Tucker &
Gelman, L.L.P.
Kelly Hayworth —City of Coralville
Ryan Heiar—City of North Liberty
Robin Hemley—University of
Iowa
Delia Ray Howard —Author
Eileen Johnson —Agate Publishing
Rebecca Neades — Iowa City
Chamber of Commerce
Tim Terry —Terry, Lockridge &
Dunn, LLC/World Trend Financial,
LLC
James Throgmorton — City of
Iowa City
Nancy Willis —Willis &
Willis/Security Abstract Company
Iowa City UNESCO City of
Literature
123 S. Linn Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
319-356-5245
info@cityofliteratureusa.org
www.cityofliteratureusa.org
Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature
123 S. Linn St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 887-6100
ir7fc; ��cify_gililE,ruturousca,c7rct
www.cityofliteratureusa.org
IOWA CITY
UNESCO CITY
OF LITERATURE
FISCAL 2012 ANNUAL REPORT
Board president's welcome/staff...................4
Executive director's report ..............................5
UNESCO Creative Cities Network...................6
One Book Two Book.........................................7
World Book & Copyright Day
(Community Book Talks).................................8
Iowa City Book Festival....................................9
Paul Engle Day ...............................................
10
Hawkeye Readers .........................................
1 1
Onthe Fly ........................................................
12
BookMarks ......................................................
13
Well -Read in the City of Literature ..............
14
Collaborations................................................
15
Board of Directors ..........................................
16
Foundational Partners ...................................
17
Supporters.......................................................
18
How to Support the City of Literature.........
19
3
FROM THE
PRESIDENT
Dear Friends and Supporters,
The Iowa City UNESCO City of
Literature continues to grow to meet
the needs of our local area. In the two
years since the first staff person came
on board, we have established the
Hawkeye Reader program, organized
the One Book Two Book children's
literature festival, celebrated Paul
Engle's contribution to Iowa and
literary life, created a videography of
visiting authors to Iowa City, presented
Book Marks to Johnson County, and
collaborated on the Iowa City Book
Festival, among many other literary-
themed projects. Thousands of people
have enjoyed events produced or
aided by the City of Literature.
I want to offer a sincere thank you to
the many donors, volunteers and
supporters who contribute to the
organization's success. Together, we
are sharing a passion about reading
and writing that is one of the things
that makes this such a special place.
Mark your calendars for One Book Two
Book this year and look for the next
Iowa City Book Festival to be bigger
and better as that event finds a new
home at the City of Literature
nonprofit.
SUSAN CRAIG
BOARD PRESIDENT, FY12
GI
VISION
To establish America's
City of Literature as a
place that invites
citizens - both locally
and globally -to
discover and share our
vibrant literary culture.
MISSION
To celebrate and
support literature on a
local, regional, national,
and international level,
connecting readers and
writers through the
power of story.
STAFF
John Kenyon
Executive Director
john@cityofliteratureusa.org
(319) 356-5245
Rachael Carlson
Operations Manager
rachael@cityofliteratureusa.org
(319) 887-6100
A YEAR OF GROWTH
A LETTER FROM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOHN KENYON
When I took on this role in May, the Iowa City UNESCO City of
Literature was wrapping up its most successful year. We produced
a slate of events, some for the first time, and collaborated on
others. We worked to celebrate and support literature, and
connected readers and writers, both core parts of our mission.
Since then, many have shared ideas about how the City of
Literature organization can become an even more integral part of
the literary community. These include program suggestions, collaboration offers and
promotional ideas. Given that enthusiasm and support, I can say with confidence that
a successful 2012 will give way to an even better 2013.
The next year will be busy as we continue successful programs while adding significantly
to our portfolio by becoming the lead organization behind the annual Iowa City Book
Festival. All of this helps us to meet goals of developing strategic partnerships, providing
high -quality activities and growing our organization
One major goal for the coming year is to communicate more effectively about what
we do and what is on offer in the City of Literature. Part of that goal is met by this report,
which details our events and collaborations, introduces our board and supporters and
outlines how you can get involved. We also have enhanced our twice -monthly e-mail
update (sign up here: fifi'o;[ bit.lyL .(_'Xnews), and soon will unveil a redesigned website
with regular news updates and information about literary activities.
Thank you to everyone who has helped us thus for. Our successes would not be possible
without the support of partners, sponsors, donors and attendees. I believe your time and
money is well spent; City of Literature programming adds to the culture of our
community, making it a better place to read and write, enhancing quality -of -life and
helping to draw visitors to the area.
If you have comments or suggestions, please do not hesitate to get in touch. I look
forward to working together as we tackle another exciting year in the City of Literature!
5
CREATIVE CITIES NETWORK
THE CITY OF LITERATURE'S PLACE IN THE WORLD
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and
CRAFTS AND FOLK ART
Cultural Or g created the Creative Cities Network in
ASWANOrganization,
HANGZ Egypt
HANczFlou, china
2004. Edinburgh, Scotland, was the first city to join the
ICI IEON, South Korea
network, named that same year as a City Literature. of LittAN
y
E, U Japan
SANTA FE, United States
Iowa City joined the network in 2008 as the third City of DESIGN
Literature. Today, we are one of six Cities of Literature and
BEI tNC, china
among 34 members of the Creative Cities Network.
BERLIN, Germany
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina
GRAZ, Austria
UNESCO does not fund designated cities, but rather lets the
KOBE, Japan
city determine how best to manage the designation. While
MONTREAL, Canada
NAGOYA, Japan
to many it is seen as a way for Iowa City to celebrate and
SAINT-ETIENNE, France
promote its rich literary history and current programming, it
SEOUL, south Korea
SHANGHAI, China
also gains us entry into a worldwide network of cities that
SHENZIir_N, China
seek to learn from and collaborate with one another.
LITERATURE
At the annual meeting of the network, held in Montreal in
DUBLIN, Ireland
Scotland
EDINBMay,
representatives from member cities discussed ways to
Y� p Y
IOWA CITY,
IOWA CITY, United States
strengthen the network as it grows, and made connections
MELBOURNE, Australia
that will enable cross -disciplinary that should
N ,united Kingdom
partnerships
p Y P p
YKJAVI
REYKJAVI K, Iceland
yield interesting and enlightening collaborations
MEDIA ARTS
Specifically, our colleagues with the other Cities of Literature
LYON, France
shared best practices that, if implemented across the cities,
will enhance programming and extend our reach globally.
Music
BOGOTA, Columbia
BOLOGNA, Italy
The network decided at the Montreal meeting to take on
GHENT, Belgium
more of its own administration, leaving important tasks like
GLASGOW, Scotland
SEVILLE, Spain
bid evaluation and the award of designations with UNESCO,
making the network better able to deal with future growth.
FILM
BRADFORD, United Kingdom
This mix of the local and the global makes this a truly
SYDNEY, Australia
valuable designation for Iowa City, and one this organization
tans to leverage to the benefit of our literary culture.
p g Y
GASTRONOMY
CHENCDU, China
JEONJU, South Korea
OSTERSUND, Sweden
POPAYAN, Columbia
ONE BOOK TWO BOOK
A CELEBRATION OF CHILDREN'S LITERATURE IN THE CITY OF LITERATURE
When Kathryn Erskine began quizzing attendees at the ONE OK
Once Upon a Time dinner that kicked off the first One WA
Book Two Book festival, it became clear that the A Celebration of
children in our community take their reading seriously. Children's Literature
Erskine would read a line from a work of children's n the City of Literature
literature, and the kids in attendance were challenged
to name the work. Erskine could hardly gel the first few words out before the youngsters
in the audience were shouting out the names of favorite books.
It is this spirit that the City of Literature hoped to capture and
celebrate with this inaugural festival, presented by the Pearson
Foundation. The event was held Jan. 13-15, 2012. It began with
the above -mentioned dinner, where local students
representing each elementary school in Iowa City read their
own work to the crowd of about 250, This work was compiled
into a bound book available at the festival and to local school
libraries, and binders filled with the work toured the
community.
Saturday offered an all -day Children's Book Fair at the
Sheraton Iowa City Hotel, drawing 3,000 attendees. Activities
were free and open to the public and included readings by well-known Midwestern
and Iowa authors, storybook character appearances, face painting, book making, a
Harry Potter exhibit, live music, and children's film screenings.
On Sunday, the Reading on the Rails excursion took 2,200 young readers and family
members on a 40-minute train ride between the University of Iowa Main Library and
North Liberty Public Library. Both libraries hosted programming.
Children not in attendance also benefitted from the event. Pearson's "We Give Books"
program donated 1,000 books due to the efforts of area readers, while a book drive a1
the festival yielded an additional 720 books from attendees.
The next One Book Two Book festival is scheduled for Jan. 1 1-13, 2013, with keynote
speaker Nancy Krulik.
7
WORLD BOOK & COPYRIGHT DAY
COMMUNITY BOOK TALK PROGRAM
By celebrating World Book Day, UNESCO seeks to promote reading, publishing and the
protection of intellectual property through copyright. The idea for this celebration
originated in Catalonia, where on April 23, Saint George's Day, a rose is traditionally
given as a gift for each book sold.
To celebrate in the Iowa City area, the City of
Literature hosted a Community Book Talk.
Community and business leaders discussed a
favorite or meaningful book. Nancy Willis, a City of
Literature board member and co-owner of Willis &
Willis and Security Abstract Co., moderated the
event. The speakers and their books were:
Charlie Funk, president of MldWesfOne
Bank; The Miracle of St. Anthony by
Adrian Wojnarowski
Terry Dickens, co-owner Herteen &
Stocker and Iowa City Council; Here Lies
Lino by Delia Ray
Mary Ferentz, community volunteer; The
Time of Our Lives by Tom Brokaw
Paul Ingram, buyer with Prairie Lights
Books; Glaciers by Alexis Smith and
Wendell Berry's Collected Poems
Nate Kaeding (above), former Hawkeye
football player and current San Diego
Charger; The Art of Fielding by Chad
Harbach
Kembrew McLeod, UI associate
professor of communications studies;
PRANKS! edited by V. Vale and A. Juno
Nancy Quellhorst, president of the Iowa
City Area Chamber of Commerce;
Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor
Frankl
The program was such a success that the City of Literature plans to hold it
twice yearly, with one event in Iowa City and the other in a neighboring
community.
In addition, more than a dozen area businesses, public libraries, florists, independent
bookstores, artists, poets and scholars participated with special offers, including free
roses with purchase of a book, rose -flavored gelato and other treats.
I
IOWA CITY BOOK FESTIVAL
CITY OF LITERATURE TO BE LEAD ORGANIZATION IN 2013
The Iowa City Book Festival will celebrate its fifth year
with the City of Literature as its new lead organization
The festival, which was created and operated by the
University of Iowa Main Library in its first four years, will
build on that success with more programming and a
larger scope in 2013.
The three-day celebration of books, reading and
writing includes a book fair with sellers from
across the region, author readings, book
discussions, and demonstrations by authors,
illustrators and book -making experts. This
includes programming in various disciplines, such
as science writing and children's literature. The
2012 event was July 13-15.
The third day of the festival, called the Day in
the City of Literature, features authors reading at
dozens of local businesses throughout Iowa City, literally taking the festival into the city.
The festival, which has drawn between 1,500
and 2,000 people annually, has been held on
University property in July. With the City of
Literature now organizing the event, the date
and location are to be determined. Discussions
about those details will be held this fall among a
number of stakeholders. The City of Literature
has been integrally involved in the festival for
the past three years. The organization plans to
maintain ties with UI Libraries and others
involved with past festivals while collaborating
with community groups to expand programming.
Sponsorship opportunities will be available. Visit wv t - f_ity� fl�f�E�li rr s,a org, for updates
about plans for the 2013 festival.
II
PAUL ENGLE DAY
INAUGURAL AWARD AND ESSAY CONTEST
In a video excerpted in the new film, "City of Literature," Paul
Engle emphatically declares, "All writers in the world ought to
come to Iowa City." He says it in a way that makes the idea
seem more ordained than improbable; such was Engle's
passion and force.
Engle (Oct. 12, 1908 - March 22, 1991), a noted poet, editor,
teacher, literary critic, novelist, and playwright, is perhaps best
remembered as the long-time director of the Iowa Writers'
Workshop and as founder of the International Writing Program
at the University of Iowa. At the turn of the millennium, Engle was selected as Iowa's
poet of the century, and Gov. Tom Vilsack proclaimed Ocf. 12 "Paul Engle Day."
To celebrate this day and Engle's role in nurturing what would become foundational
pillars of the City of Literature, the organization invited high school students from around
the Corridor to participate in a writing contest in honor of the man. The grand prize-
winner received a $500 college scholarship and the top four essay writers received gift
certificates and an opportunity to read their work in front of on audience at Prairie
Lights Book Store.
the City of Literature created the Paul Engle Award to
dividual who, like Engle, represents a pioneering spirit
of literature through writing, editing, publishing, or
Ind whose active participation in the larger issues of
contributed to the betterment of the world through
the liferary arts. Pulitzer Prize-winning author James
Alan McPherson was awarded the first Paul Engle
Award in 2011 (the award, created by M.C.
Ginsberg, is seen at left). The City of Literature
hosted a reception and award ceremony in his
honor at the Englert Theatre.
The essay contest will be held in fall 2012, and will
go statewide in 2013, with the prize being a year of free tuition to
the University of Iowa. The Paul Engle Award will return in 2013.
10
HAWKEYE READERS
A PARTNERSHIP WITH THE HAWKEYE FOOTBALL TEAM
Hawkeye Readers is a program that brings University of Iowa athletes into local
classrooms to serve as role models and to teach the importance of reading.
For the second year, members of the
Hawkeye Football team visited with about
300 students at Mark Twain and Gran] Wood
elementary schools in Iowa City during the
spring semester.
One day a week for six weeks, the players
would visit classrooms to meet with students.
The first week, they discussed what it is like to
be a student and an athlete at the college
level. In subsequent weeks, the student -
athletes participated in the reading
program the teacher had planned.
Hawkeye quarterback James
Vandenberg reads to students.
In addition, the City of Literature contributed books to participating students, using the
proceeds from Scholastic Book Fair sales during the Iowa City Book Festival, as well as
directed contributions from donors.
The program is scheduled to continue in spring 2013, with the hope of expanding it in
the future.
Special thanks to Kirk Ferentz and LeVor Woods with the Hawkeye football program for
their assistance with this project.
Hawkeye Readers Book Mark designed by local children's author
Claudia McGehee.
ON THE FLY: WRITERS ON WRITING
A VIDEO SERIES DELVING INTO THE LIFE OF WRITERS
Iowa City is known as much for the writers who call it home as it is for the hundreds of
writers who visit throughout the course of a given year. Seeking a way to capture the
wit and wisdom of both sets of authors, the City of Literature created the On the Fly:
Writers on Writing video series.
Filmmaker Ben Hill, who also wrote and directed
the "City of Literature" film that debuted in
2012, oversees the project. He films and
interviews poets, novelists and non-fiction writers
who traveled to Iowa City to read at Prairie
Lights Books, teach at the Iowa Writers'
Workshop, or take part in the various writing
conferences, delving into their lives as writers.
International Writing Program director
and author Christopher Merrill.
Ann Packer, Robert Pinsky, Alison Bechdel, Yann Martel, Stuart Dybek and Mona
Simpson are among the more than 50 authors who have sat for our cameras in the past
two years. Each author answers a series of questions about writing, reading and the
unique place that is Iowa City. In aggregate,
these videos are like a master's seminar in the
state of literature in the world.
Author and University of Iowa faculty
member Roberto Ampuero.
In addition, local authors and student authors
have shared their writing experiences in video
interviews. The collection to date includes 62
videos, all available on the City of Literature web
site (% otg/virf(-o) and
YouTube channel.
The series was created in partnership with Humanities Iowa in 2011. In 2012, it was
funded through the generous support of Nate and Samantha Kaeding and the Iowa
City/Coralville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. Sponsorships for the 2013 season are
available.
12
BOOK MARKS
BOOK ART IN JOHNSON COUNTY
Dubbed "a celebration of reading, writing
and book art in Johnson County," the Book
Marks Iowa public art program brought 28
gigantic book art displays to the area from
June to October 2011, The project was a
partnership among the City of Literature, the
Coralville Public Library, the Iowa City Public
Library and the North Liberty Community
Library.
The statues were created by artists from across the Midwest and placed on display
throughout the community. Each statue was sponsored by a local business or
organization (sponsoring organizations are among those listed on p. 17). The statues
were later sold at an auction and several were donated to local schools and libraries.
Proceeds from the project benefit the presenting partner organizations,
The City of Literature designated its share of
the proceeds to enhance outreach activities
that attract visitors to the area such as the
annual Iowa City Book Festival. The Iowa City
Public Library directed its share to increase its
early childhood literacy efforts. The Coralville
Public Library utilized the proceeds to
enhance library programming and augment
high -use collections. The North Liberty
Community Library used its portion of the
funds toward an expansion and renovation
of its space.
To learn more about the individual statues, including artist statements and sponsors for
each, please visit �,vvvw ^oobnorksiowo <:otn. Several can still be seen around town, as
sponsoring organizations, as well as groups and individuals who purchased statues at
auction, elected to keep them in the community, offering a perpetual celebration of
reading and the book arts.
13
WELL-READ IN THE
CITY OF LITERATURE
INTERVIEWS WITH COMMUNITY MEMBERS ABOUT THEIR READING
"A writer is, after all, only half his book. The other half is the reader and from the reader
the writer learns."
Though it is oft paraphrased, it seems the above
notion can be attributed to Australian novelist P.L.
Travers. Why share it here? Because the City of
Literature may first be thought of as a city of writers.
But just as important is the fact chat it also is a city of
readers.
To that end, the City of Literature organization began samir
a program called "Well -Read in the City of Literature,"
Susan Boyd
which asks community members to share something
about themselves and the books that have influenced their lives. These interviews are
archived on our website IN 23), giving visitors a
chance to learn more about their friends and neighbors, as well as to pick up a reading
suggestion or two.
Tim Terry
These are people who are serious about their books. Susan Boyd
shares chat she would "much rather have a book for Christmas than
clothes or food," while Tim Terry says "each and every aspect of my
life is influenced by literature. For me, it is like breathing."
Other contributors include:
Larry Baker, Author and Teacher
Ethel Barker, Author and Retired Teacher
Kate Minette, Pearson Education
Chuck Peters, SourceMedia Group
Kristen Stephens Sharma, East-West School of Integrative Healing Arts
David Leshtz, District Representative for Congressman Dave Loebsack
Ralph Savarese, Author
Sarah Lande, Iowa Sister States
14
COLLABORATIONS
PROJECTS WHERE THE CITY OF LITERATURE PARTNERS WITH OTHERS
Little Free Library is a book -sharing program whose mission is to
"promote literacy and the love of reading by building free book
exchanges worldwide." Through the program, small wooden
"libraries" are built and installed throughout the community.
Owners fill them with books and invite neighbors and people
passing by to fake a book or leave a book. The City of Literature
is working with the Little Free Library organization and the city to
promote and facilitate the program locally.
The film "City of Literature" is an hour-long documentary that tells the story of creative
writing in Iowa, from its frontier beginnings to the recognition of Iowa City as a UNESCO
City of Literature. It includes clips from the City of Literature's Writers on Writing: On the
Fly video series. Rachael Carlson, the City of Literature organization's operations
manager, did historical research for the film.
Novel IC, a program that ran during the 2011 Iowa City Book Festival,
encouraged participants to help write a "Twitter Novel" by contributing
tweets that added to the continuous story as the novel developed and
unfolded over the three days of the festival. Individuals from across
globe contributed tweets, with 72 authors writing 878 tweets. The City of
Literature helped to promote the project.
Musick is a series of festivals that focus on music for small ensembles inspired by works
of prose and poetry. The literary sources for the music are read or projected during the
concerts as well as being available in the festival playbill and on the Musick website.
MusiclC has among its partners the Iowa Summer Writing Festival and Iowa City
UNESCO City of Literature.
Hot Tin Roof is a program to showcase current literary work produced in Iowa City. The
series is organized and juried by representatives from The Englert Theatre, the City of
Literature and Little Village magazine. All three are among financial supporters of the
project, as is M.C. Ginsberg. Each month, a selected piece of creative writing up to
1,000 words is published in the pages of Little Village, Iowa City's News and Culture
Magazine. The author receives an honorarium of $100.
15
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
FY13
Joshua Schamberger
Iowa City/Coralville Area CVB
President
Carolyn Brown
Foundations in Learning
Vice President
Rod Sullivan
Johnson County Board of Supervisors
Treasurer
Sally Mason
University of Iowa
At Large
Susan Craig
Iowa City Public Library
Past President
Lori Erickson
Hugh Ferrer
Wendy Ford
Tom Gelman
Kelly Hayworth
Ryan C. Heiar
Robin Hemley
Delia Ray Howard
Eileen Johnson
Rebecca Neades
Tim Terry
James Throgmorton
Nancy Willis
0
FY12
Susan Craig
Iowa City Public Library
President
Joshua Schamberger
Iowa City/Coralville Area CVB
Vice President
John Kenyon
Corridor Business Journal
Secretary
Rod Sullivan
Johnson County Board of Supervisors
Treasurer
Sally Mason
University of Iowa
At Large
Regenia Bailey
Carolyn Brown
Hugh Ferrer
Wendy Ford
Tom Gelman
Kelly Hayworth
Ryan C. Heiar
Robin Hemley
Rebecca Neades
Chris Rossi
Tim Terry
James Throgmorton
Nancy Willis
FOUNDATIONAL PARTNERS
THE IOWA CITY UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE HAS RECEIVED GENEROUS
SUPPORT FROM THESE COMMUNITY PARTNERS
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PROGRAM SPONSORS
THESE COMPANIES AND ORGANIZATIONS MADE OUR EVENTS POSSIBLE
ACT
Benson & Hepker Design
Blank & McCune
Boyd Crosby Consfrucilon
Sarah Sloe Brown
City of Coralville
City of Iowa City
City of North Liberty
Coralville Marriott Hotel and
Conference Center
Coralville Public Library
The Eastern Iowa Airport
Foundations in Learning
Goodfellow Printing, Inc.
Hands Jewelers
Hawkeye ReadlMlx
Humanities Iowa
ICPL Friends Foundation
Iowa Book
Iowa Children's Museum
Iowa City Community School
Disirict
Iowa City/Coralville
Convention and Visitors
Bureau
Iowa City Press Citizen
Iowa City Public Library
Iowa Memorial Union
Iowa Northern Railway
Company
Kehler Collision Center
Lensing Funeral and
Cremation Service
Little Village Magazine
Lucky Powz
M.C. Ginsberg
MidWesiOne Bank
moengroup
17
North Liberty Community
Library
Pearson Foundation
Phelan, Tucker, Mullen,
Walker, Tucker, Gelman LLP
Simmons, Perrine, Moyer,
Bergman, PLC
Terry, Lockridge and Dunn
TruArt
United Way of Johnson
County
University of Iowa Athletics
University of Iowa Community
Credit Union
University of Iowa Libraries
University of Iowa Book Store
Willis & Willis/Security Abstract
Willoww rid School
SUPPORTERS
JULY 201 1-JUNE 2012
Visionary $10,000+
Jackie Blank*
Nancy Willis
City of Coralvllle
Jeanette Carter
Carolyn Brown and Jerry
City of Iowa City
Moeve Clark
Zimmerman
City of North Liberty
Linda Farkas
Iowa City Public Library
Bruce J. Gontz MD & Mary K.
Supporter $1-$99
Nate and Samantha keeping
Ganlz*
Philip and Pamela Bouijally
Tho University of Iowa
H. Dec and Myrene Hoover*
Daniel Bray
Katherine Mathews*
Connie Brothers
Gold $2,500-$4,999
Katherine and John Moyers*
Samantha Chang
Tom Rocklin and Kim
John and Catherine Solow*
Clifford and Susan Curry
Ephgrove"
Rick and Sandra Thorington*
Jeffery and Lou Dawson
Sally Mason
Tom and Catherine
Marc and Tuyet Dorau
Don & Ann Peterson
Weingeist*
Patrick Moore and Sharon
John and Dorothy Whiston*
Fahey
Silver $1,000-$2,499
La Donna and Gary Wlcklund*
William Furlong
Tom and Becky Gelman*
Jim Harris
Mark and Vickie Ginsberg
Friend $100.249
Lyn Dee and Patrick Keeley
Guthrie Center Arts Council
Robert Ashman*
Gerhild Kropf
Iowa Memorial Union
Sandy (Willard) and Susan
Brooks Landon
Boyd
Ron and Kara Logsdon
Bronze $500-$999
Deb Dunkhose
Kevin and Suzanne Mold
Ed and Ethel Borker*
Alison Ames Galstad
Keith and Lori Marshall
Barb and Gregory Black
Ellen Hampe
Jesse Martinez
John and Ellen Buchanan
Kelly and Nancy Hayworth
Alison McGoft
Foundation*
Kristy Heffner
Robert and Pauline Muzzin
Susan Craig
Iowa City/Coralville
Olga Petrova and Mikhail
Patrick Fees
Convention and Visitors
Bergal
Iowa City Chamber of
Bureau
Horace Porter
Commerce
John and Mary Kenyon
Richard and Jill Ross
Johnson County
Sarah Londe
Kent and Joy Short
Chris Klitgaard
Heidi Lauritzen*
Rod Sullivan
Joan and Jix Lloyd Jones*
Paul and Patricia McCarthy
Carol and Lee Tippe
John and Diana Lundell
Francis Meyer Rothman
Jane Van Voorhis
Tom Markus
Kathy Jean Mitchell
Kevin Walklns and Mary
Jane McCune*
Rebecca Needles
Mockaitis
John Menntnger"
Michael O'Hara
Frank and Evelyn Weirich
Ann Rizzo
Jeanette Pllak
John and Jennifer Whitmore
Josh Schamberger
Thomas and Carol Shreves
Susan Winkler
Susan Shullow
Dick and Joyce Summerwill*
Rod Zeitler
Burns H. Weston*
Karen Stierler
John S. and Susan T. Strauss
*Charter Members who made
Sustaining $250-499
Terry Lockridge & Dunn
three-year pledges
James and Nancy Baker*
Michael Welsh
0
SUPPORT THE CITY OF LITERATURE
JOIN YOUR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES AND CONTRIBUTE
In the four years since Iowa City was
declared the third UNESCO City of
Literature in the world, the nonprofit
organization that manages and promotes
that designation has made valuable
contributions to our community. With a mix
of programming, advocacy, promotion
and collaboration, we have added to the
rich tapestry of literary culture in the area.
As we look to increase and enhance our
offerings in the coming year- an effort that
includes becoming the lead organization behind the Iowa City Book Festival while
continuing popular programs like the One Book Two Book children's literature festival,
Hawkeye Readers and the Community Book Talks -your support is more important than
ever. Please consider a tax-deductible contribution and help us to continue working
toward our mission to celebrate and support literature on a local, regional, national,
and international level, connecting readers and writers through the power of story.
Charter members pledge to contribute at the same level for three years, offering
ongoing support for our efforts at educational programming and outreach.
Contributions can be sent to the Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature,
123 S. Linn St., Iowa City, IA, 52240.
Contributions also can be made securely online at
ht'L,IIkL l:.Iv/QQ_t,d0n(fle.
To discuss directed gifts or sponsorship opportunities, please contact
John Kenyon at 1r�i Sri%<..i1yf>flitcrrc,,iu�c usc�r or (319) 356-5245.
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