Saying you're from Bettendorf, IA could get you a lot of reactions- Bettendorf? That sounds like it's from The Hobbit. What a strange name. Yes, we know. And even though there's nothing to do in this town and nowhere to go, we still love it and it's hard to leave it. Here's how you know you're from Bettendorf, Iowa.
1. There's nothing to do in this town- so when you're bored, you go to Hyvee.
Hyvee! The centerpiece of Bettendorf. Your first job was probably bagging groceries here. When you're at Hyvee, it's guaranteed you'll see someone you know, even if you don't want to see them. Hyvee is a quick walk from one of the local high schools which attracts mobs of freshman on early-out days. Nothing to do with your friends when you're hanging out at night? Pop on over to Hyvee to grab some ice cream and say hi to your kindergarten teacher.
2. You know that Crow Creek Park closes at 10 P.M.
We've all been there when the park security kicks us out. We have our reasons.
3. The Bettendorf-PV rivalry still warms your heart.
Bettendorf has two school districts- Bettendorf and Pleasant Valley. And there's no better rivalry. PV handed Bettendorf it's first football shutout in quite a few years in 2012 and Bettendorf always brings home state champs from the state wrestling tournament. You can decide for yourself who's better at sports or academics,
4. The best place to watch the sunset is on the corner of Devils Glen Road and Forest Grove Road.
I'm going to let you finish, but Iowa has the best sunsets of all time. There's nothing more perfectly midwest than watching the golden sun melt below the cornfields.
5. Devils Glen Road doesn't phase you anymore.
You say Devils Glen Road so casually. But if a visitor hears you say "I'm on Devils Glen" then they may be a little concerned.
6. You've probably had a band concert or a dance recital at the bandshell.
Are you really from Bettendorf if you haven't had some sort of performance at the bandshell or at least just messed around on it? The bandshell is where Broadway stars had their beginnings. But the bathrooms are absolutely disgusting.
7. The red traffic light at the ice skating lagoon scared you as a kid.
There's nothing more disappointing than riding in the car to go ice skating at the lagoon and the traffic light is a big fat red for do not skate. Sad, terrifying, and still traumatizing to this day.
8. You've taken prom or homecoming pictures at Leech Park.
Don't underestimate the name, Leech Park is THE spot for prom pictures.
9. The best nights are in the basements.
Every small town says this, but all we do is just hang out in each other's basement because of the lack of things to do. The people make Bettendorf what it is, and basement hangouts and late night Whitey's runs make it even more special.
