| | The gift that keeps on giving the whole year
Take a leisurely drive this time of year, and you will see Santas and snowmen and reindeer — 10 feet tall, plastic and inflatable (most of the time) with enough flashing lights for a Vegas show. Some even have lights set to music. I love the enthusiasm, as I thoroughly enjoy the Christmas spirit (and some popular “Christmas Vacation” movie quotes, too).
Yes, there are a few Clark Griswolds out there, and you know who you are. I used to be one, meticulously arranging lights along the eaves, positioning the ladder repeatedly so as not to overextend. I would put lights on our house, our shed, our fence line, our deck. I loved putting up Christmas lights. It became a tradition.
“Dad, you taught me everything I know about exterior illumination.” – Clark Griswold
Actually, Dad didn’t teach me anything about holiday lights. He never hung a single bulb outside, at least from what I can remember. My obsession came from within, along with a little help from one of my most traditional daughters, whom I will share a story about in a moment.
“Clark, that's the gift that keeps on giving the whole year.” – Cousin Eddie
I am not referencing the one-year membership in the jelly-of-the-month club with this quote. Rather, I am pointing out my reluctance to take down the Christmas lights. Yes, they are the gift that keeps on giving. For New Year’s Day. And Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. And Groundhog Day. And Valentine’s Day. And St. Patrick’s Day. By Easter, if warm weather arrives, I have usually stashed them away. But, as the kids grew older — and I did, too — my fascination with outdoor Christmas lights dimmed, so much so that I did not put any up in some recent years.
“Honey, do you honestly think I would check thousands of tiny little lights if I didn’t make sure the extension cord was plugged in?” – Clark Griswold
Our aforementioned youngest daughter, Abby, thought we should have at least one string of lights on the house somewhere last year. So she pulled a set out of the storage box, tested the lights to make sure they worked, and set them out for me to install. On the coldest day of the year, I untangled that mess and then carefully wrapped it around the deck posts, making sure the bulbs were distanced equally and pleasing to the eye. Then, when I plugged the strand in — you guessed it — nothing. I decided to wait for a warmer day to deal with it. I am still waiting. Easter sounds about right. And, yes, the extension cord was plugged in.
Have a fantastic Friday, and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher
Times Vedette digital newsletter
shane@gctimesnews.com
641-755-2115
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 | | | ‘The Polar Express’ to play at ACGC Dec. 7 | | | | | | | | By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
The ACGC Student Council invites everyone to a free movie night. “The Polar Express” will be shown in the ACGC gym beginning at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase with proceeds used to help fill the local food pantries. Attendees are welcome to bring blankets, pillows and bleacher chairs as desired. | |
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 | | | Drought conditions improve with above-average rainfall | | | | | | | | From the Iowa Department of Natural Resources
After a very dry September and October, above-average rainfall in November improved drought conditions for most of the state, according to the latest Water Summary Update.
November’s preliminary statewide precipitation was 3.25 inches, or 1.43 inches above normal. Total rainfall for September and October was nearly 3.5 inches below normal, however, increased precipitation during the past month helped prevent drought conditions from worsening.
[...] | | | | | | | | Read the full story | |
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| | Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in Linden Dec. 14
Special to the Times Vedette
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at the Linden United Methodist Church, 106 N. Evans St., on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 9 a.m. to noon. A Kids Shopping Event will also be held. For 25 cents per gift, kids can pick out gift/gifts for their family. People will be available to help them wrap the presents to take home. Have question? Call the Linden Library at 641-744-2124. This event is sponsored by Friends of the Library. | |
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| | Santa to visit Yale on Dec. 15
Special to the Times Vedette
Santa Claus is planning to make his way to the Yale Community Building on Sunday, Dec. 15 from 2-4 p.m. Be good, for goodness sake. | |
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| | Cornishes provide $2.5 million gift to University of Iowa’s Stead Family Children’s Hospital
By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
The Times Vedette recently received notice of a generous gift to the University of Iowa’s Stead Family Children’s Hospital. The donation of approximately $2.5 million came from the estate of Bill and Barbara Cornish.
The notice, from Dr. Alexander Bassuk, Chair of the Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, stated, in part, “After Barbara’s death, Bill, through his attorney Jim Van Werden, sought to give money for the construction of the new Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Bill, with the aid of the University of Iowa Center for Advancement and Mary Ferentz, toured the project site and decided to make a gift to support the project.”
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| | Upcoming events at the Casey Library
By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
The Casey Library has a variety of events scheduled in December including:
- Cookie Exchange. Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9-11 a.m. Bring a plate of cookies and exchange them, one for one, with cookies brought in by others. You’ll end up with a variety plate that’s sure to give you some new favorites.
- Snowman crafts. School dismisses early, so come have some crafty fun from 2-3 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 20. All ages are welcome.
- Christmas party. Monday, Dec. 23 from 2-3:30 p.m. Christmas story, snacks and games. All ages are welcome.
- Kids movie and popcorn. Monday, Dec. 30 from 2-3:30 p.m.
The Casey Library is located at 604 McPherson St. Phone number is 641-746-2670. Regular library hours are noon to 6 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and 9-11 a.m. on Saturdays. www.caseypubliclibrary.weebly.com | |
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| | Area Christmas Eve church services
By Rich Wicks and Cheryl Castile | Times Vedette
ADAIR:
- First Presbyterian Church, 5 p.m.
- United Methodist Church, 5 p.m.
- Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 4 p.m. Services at Schafer Barn on the Hill, 1459 White Pole Road
BAGLEY:
- Bagley United Methodist Church, 6:30 p.m.
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| | Holiday fun all around Guthrie County
By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
Many holiday traditions and events are upcoming in the Guthrie County area. Here is a partial listing:
Saturday, Dec. 7
Christmas in Casey
- 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Vendor shopping, then a visit from Santa at noon.
- 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch served by the senior class
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| | Holiday Fashion Show in Casey Dec. 15
By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
A Holiday Fashion Show will be held beginning at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15 at Tin Lizzie’s Sports Bar in Casey. Attendees can enjoy wine from Twin Vines and appetizers while checking out the new fashions. There will be a special of “buy one, get second item half off” on the fashion items.
Tin Lizzie’s Sports Bar is located at 614 McPherson St. in Casey. Phone number is 641-746-3316. www.tinlizziessportsbar.com. | |
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| | Janet Simmons | | | | | | | | 1943-2024
Janet Irene Simmons, 81, daughter of James and Betty (Negal) Crawley, was born July 19, 1943, in Guthrie Center. A lifelong resident of Guthrie Center, she passed away Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, at the New Homestead in Guthrie Center.
She was the oldest of five daughters, graduating from Guthrie Center High School in 1961. From there, she went on and graduated from McConnell Airline School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1964.
[...] | | | | | | | | Read the full obituary | |
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| | Panorama wins season opener against Woodward-Granger, 47-38
By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
Panorama boys basketball (1-0) won its season debut against Woodward-Granger (0-1) at home on Tuesday, Dec. 3. Stats were not posted for the boys individuals, but the victory means new Head Coach Josh Beardsley starts his head coaching career on the plus side of .500. Panorama staved off a comeback attempt from the Hawks. After holding Woodward-Granger to just two points in the second quarter, the Hawks answered back with a 19-point third quarter. However, it was not enough to complete the comeback. | |
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| | Panorama late comeback attempt thwarted against IKM-Manning, loses 58-54
By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
Panorama boys basketball (1-1) hosted IKM-Manning (1-1) on Thursday, Dec. 5. Panorama had an early lead in the contest but would eventually lose despite having a few opportunities to take the lead. Panorama has a quick turnaround and will play at home again tonight, Dec. 6, against Madrid (2-0). | |
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 | | | Panorama picks up win against Woodward-Granger, 62-48 | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
Panorama girls basketball (2-0) hosted Woodward-Granger (2-1) on Tuesday, Dec. 3. The double-digit win was in part fueled by Morgan Crees’ big day on offense. The junior scored 27 points on 10/21 shooting while going 7/8 from the free-throw line. Her 12 rebounds earned her a double-double, and her seven assists nearly gave her a triple-double. Tack on five steals, and you’ve got yourself one stuffed stat sheet. Faith Recker was the only other Panther to score double-digit points with 12. Kelsey Laabs added an impressive eight-point, nine-rebound, three-block game.
PICTURED: No. 52 Addie Astley defends the shooter during Panorama's 63-51 win over Creston on Nov. 26. Photo by Betty Cooper | |
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| | Panthers win streak continues against IKM-Manning, 60-49
By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
Panorama girls basketball (3-0) defeated IKM-Manning (1-2) at home on Thursday, Dec. 5. The win didn’t come easily. Panorama was only up by one point at halftime and just two points heading into the fourth. The Panthers saved their best basketball for last, putting up 20 points in the final quarter to seal the win. Panorama will get back on the court tonight, Dec. 6, at home against Madrid (2-1) | |
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| | Panthers win 1, lose 1 at Nodaway Valley Triangular
By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
Panorama boys wrestling traveled to Nodaway Valley High School to compete in a triangular meet on Tuesday, Dec. 3. Panorama won its matchup with Coon Rapids-Bayard, 50-19. They lost their matchup with Nodaway Valley, 49-28.
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 | | | Panthers lose 2 duals, win 1 at Manson NW-Webster quadrangular | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
Panorama boys wrestling competed at the Manson NW-Webster quadrangular on Thursday, Dec. 5. Panorama won its dual against Southeast Valley, 42-29, and lost its duals to Manson NW-Webster, 51-24, and Coon Rapids-Bayard, 33-25. The next meet will be at Treynor Community School this Saturday, Dec. 7. They will be competing against 11 other teams.
[...]
PICTURED: Panorama's Joel Cooper (285) is pictured here during his match at the Manson NW-Webster quad meet. Photo by Betty Cooper | | | | | | | | Read the full results | |
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 | | | Panorama girls compete in dual with Earlham | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
Panorama girls wrestling competed in a dual meet at Earlham on Thursday, Dec. 5. Three Panthers competed at the meet. Ella Carico (110) lost her dual with Sophia Millage. Piper Downing (135) lost her dual with Lilli Strandberg. Gracie Recker (155) lost her dual with Haley Glade.
PICTURED: ACGC's Cadence Petersen, pictured here during a match earlier this year. Photo by Betty Cooper | |
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| | Panorama girls face off in Woodward-Granger Invitational tonight
By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
Panorama girls wrestling will travel to Woodward-Granger High School tonight, Dec. 6, for an 11-team tournament. Other teams participating will be Ballard, Boone, Carlisle, Earlham, Osage, South Tama, Southeast Warren, Southwest Valley, West Fork and Woodward-Granger. | |
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 | | | Chargers dominate West Central Valley in season opener, 82-57 | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
ACGC boys basketball (1-0) got its season off to a hot start with an away win against West Central Valley (1-1) on Tuesday, Dec. 3. The Chargers jumped out to a 21-11 lead by the end of the first quarter and never looked back. They also saved their best for last, scoring 26 total points in the fourth quarter, the most by either team that night. Payton Policky’s monster performance was a big reason for the win. The senior had a 21-point, 17-rebound double-double. Joe Crawford had a solid shooting night, scoring 18 points and going 4/9 from behind the arc. Jathan South with 15, and Tommy Skram with 10, both hit double figures in scoring. Feeding those shooters all night long was Noah Kading, who had a game-high 11 assists to go along with his five points, seven rounds and four blocks. ACGC’s next game is tonight, Dec. 6, against Woodward-Granger (0-1).
PICTURED: No. 3 Jathan South during a scrimmage against Woodbine. South is currently average 15 points and 3 steals per game. Photo by Mark Reno | |
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 | | | Chargers grind out win over West Central Valley, 48-27 | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
ACGC girls basketball (2-0) defeated West Central Valley (1-2) away from home on Tuesday, Dec. 3 in a low-scoring affair. ACGC’s staunch defense no doubt played a part, getting 27 steals and limiting West Central Valley to a four-point first quarter, and a two-point fourth quarter. Shay Lemke led ACGC in scoring with an efficient 19-point performance, shooting 7/15 from the field and 4/10 from three. Lemke also had eight assists and five steals. Two other Chargers joined Lemke in double-digit point performances. Stella Largent had 11 points, eight rebounds and four steals. Camdyn Richter added 10 points and five steals. ACGC will host Woodward-Granger (2-1) tonight, Dec. 6.
PICTURED: No. 1 Stella Largent is currently second on the team in points per game with 13.5 and first in rebounds with 6 per game Photo by Mark Reno | |
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 | | | Chargers win 2 duals, lose 1 at season-opening quadrangular | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
ACGC boys wrestling got its first action of the season during its home quadrangular on Thursday, Dec. 5 against East Union, Nodaway Valley and West Central Valley. ACGC won its dual with East Union, 48-36, won against West Central Valley, 42-30, and lost against Nodaway Valley, 52-30. ACGC’s next meet will be the Woodward-Granger tournament this Saturday, Dec. 7. ACGC will compete against 10 other schools including Colfax-Mingo, Des Moines Roosevelt, Woodward-Granger, Saydel, Coon Rapids-Bayard, Southeast Warren, East Marshall, Martensdale-St Marys, Des Moines North and Belle Plaine.
[...]
PICTURED: ACGC's Angel Martinez gets ready to tie up during ACGC's quad meet on Thursday, Dec. 5. Photo by Mark Reno | | | | | | | | Read the full results | |
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| | Special to the Times Vedette
Staying Independent - Final arrangements
Tuesday, Dec. 10 from 10-11 a.m.
Making final arrangements involves more than planning a funeral. Use a pre-planning checklist to consider end-of-life decisions that can be made now and learn how to organize documents to help the living.
Cost: $5 per person.
Location: Guthrie County Extension Office, 212 State St., Guthrie Center
To register: call 641-747-2276
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| | Congregate Meals are served at Sneakers Café, Monday through Friday, in the Guthrie County Hospital. No meals are available on major holidays or during inclement weather. This service is available for seniors ages 60 and older. No reservation is needed. All menus follow Elderbridge-approved menus and provide at least one-third of the nutritional needs of individuals 60 and older. Menus are subject to change. For more information on these services, call 641-332-3818. | |
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 | | | 30 years ago | | | | | | | | From the archives of The Guthrie Center Times, Nov. 30, 1994
HAVE A FIESTA. Duane Norgart (far right), a representative of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), gives a $100 check to the Guthrie Center High School honor band members who will be marching in the Fiesta Bowl parade on New Year’s Day. Front row, from left, Barry Bradford, Adam Franzeen, Jacie Terwilliger and Norgart. Back row, Tony Menning, Kyle Chance and Kasie DeBoer. | | | | | | | | See more Yester Years | |
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 | | | Holiday baking and a Fantasy Fudge recipe | | | | | | | | By Jolene Goodman | Lake Panorama Times, November 2024
I love to bake — mostly cookies, cakes, dessert breads, muffins and desserts. Christmas cookie baking was a big event at my childhood home and a tradition I have fond memories of.
My mother started at the beginning of December preparing for all the treats we would create and then enjoy the week of Christmas. Fudge, cut-out cookies, peanut brittle, spritz, Russian tea cakes, peanut butter balls, butterscotch crunch balls, almond bark, chocolate Spanish peanut clusters and pecan tassies were my favorites. My sister made the Kringla.
[...] | | | | | | | | Read the full story | |
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| | FOR SALE: 2 vacant cemetery lots in Bretheren Cemetery (north of Panora). Contact Gerald Schlieman at 515-999-9580 for more details or to discuss.
PANORA COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR SALE OR LEASE: Nearly 1,500 square feet of professional office or retail space on Main Street in Panora. Approximately 1,000 square feet finished with remaining space ready to be built out or used as storage or shop area. Front portion walled off for reception area. Open space in the middle. New windows in middle and back area installed this year, as well as a new canopy on front of building. Painted recently inside and out. Sale price of $75,000 or lease for $750 per month with flexible terms. Contact Shane Goodman for a viewing at 515-473-8312 or shane@dmcityview.com.
INDOOR BOAT AND RV STORAGE. Secured facility. Concrete floors. Staff on site. Arrange a day and time now to drop off and to pick up in the spring. Advance payment required. Limited space available. 104 Industrial Road in Guthrie Center. Visit https://storage.biggreenumbrellamedia.com for rates and details or call or text 515-473-8312. | |
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