Essential Estrogen

In May of 2007 the Linn County Supervisors and the Cedar Rapids City Council declared 2008 "The Year of the River," saying that the Cedar River would be "a focal point for our community this year."

I'm sure they couldn't have -- even in their wildest dreams -- realized how true that statement would be.

Tonight we should give thanks that the suggestion by one member of the council for a "decade of the river" wasn't something adopted by the whole body.

The Year of the River should encourage collaboration between the County and City governments, public and private stakeholders, and interested individuals and groups who want a share in the revitalization of the Red Cedar and its banks and should act as a stimulus to investment in our Riverfront for decades to come. “Year of the Red Cedar River 2008″ is the rallying point of support for the City’s Vision of sustainable growth and quality of life.

Well, there's obviously a lot of work ahead. Maybe when the waters recede, there will be new opportunities that wouldn't have seemed feasible a year or even a month ago. There's also no doubt that the Cedar River has played a big role in encouraging the collaboration between county and city governments. When you think about it, the river probably went above and beyond what was required, pulling in state and national interests as well.

"Year of the River" or not, I'm personally going to find it a bit difficult to head into downtown next month, sit calmly on the banks of the Cedar and pay homage to its beauty and possibilities. Call me paranoid, but after seeing the fury the river has unleashed, I'm more than a little wary of pumping up its ego once again.