As summer comes to a close, up in Minnesota we like to take advantage of every last chance we get to enjoy the outdoors. The River City Revue paddle boat ride was a unique opportunity to enjoy the Mississippi River on a beautiful sunset ride!
The “Work” themed night on August 7th was anything but. Barge workers narrated the entire ride, giving information about what we saw as we floated by. One of the most interesting moments occurred when we got up close and personal with a series of parked barges. About six barges were connected – carrying corn, soybeans, wheat, and a form of coal. Each is tied together with a series of complex cabling systems knotted each and every way. Watching the barges navigate the twists, turns, banks and bridges of the River is truly impressive.
It’s amazing to think
the Mississippi serves as a
major trade thoroughfare for
the entire nation!
Next, three self-proclaimed River Rats took part in a shout-boasting competition to determine who would be deemed “King of the River.” In a series of Q&A rounds, stories of the river were revealed in a heartwarming, sad, poetic, and hilarious way. What is your experience with life on the River? What is your experience with death on the River? Why do you love the River? If you were to personify the River, what would it say? These are all great questions to consider for ourselves.
The “Play” themed night on August 23rd was all about recreating on and enjoying the beauty of the River. Bingo was the hot ticket item of the night. Park Rangers assisted in teaching about the wildlife, habitat, locks and dams, and other elements of the River. The Eel Pout Stringers set the mood with their lively string music that blended with the rush of the Mississippi current and churning of the boat paddle. A classic Minnesotan card game with Norwegian origins called Whist absorbed the lower deck of the boat in a heated tournament. All passengers embraced the competitive spirit of the evening.
Overall, the Paddleford Paddle Boats provided a unique means for interacting with the Mississippi River through the River City Revue organized by the Mississippi River Fund. I only wish we could squeeze in a few more trips this season. Mark your calendars for next year, both nights sold out!
I also want to mention a great group of river-oriented people I met recently.
This September, the Paddle Forward crew of ten people will begin a journey from Headwaters to Gulf of the Mississippi River. Along the way, their goal is to connect with people who care about the River. They want to learn more about how people view and engage with the River in its entirety, and what more needs to be done to protect it. Paddle Forward will document their adventure in hopes of creating an inspiring and enlightening film about out famous Mississippi River.
Thank you to all the River Citizens who joined us for the Revues, looking forward to seeing you at the next event!
Kelsey Reinke
1 Mississippi MN Team Leader