FRIDAY, AUG. 23, 2024

By Kerry Jacobsen | Times Vedette

Parents and kids were running around this morning taking pictures, giving hugs and maybe even shedding a tear or two while teachers welcomed kids back for the first day of school at both ACGC and Panorama school districts today.

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

The Panora EMS recently presented a plaque to Dave Olson of Panora, marking his 40 years of service. He plans to continue serving, specifically by teaching CPR classes. Pictured here, Dave Olson receives the plaque from Panora EMS President Steve Pote.

By Kerry Jacobsen | Times Vedette

Little Charger Early Learning Center held its official ribbon cutting with the Guthrie Center Chamber of Commerce on Aug. 21. Tours were provided, and a drive through meal fundraiser was offered.

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

The proposed pipeline that Summit Carbon Solutions plans to build to transport carbon dioxide for storage in North Dakota is a hot topic in Guthrie County and in many parts of Iowa and the Midwest. The issue is complex, but this article aims to explain the basic facts and status.

What is CO2?
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a gas that occurs naturally in the earth and in the atmosphere. Some of the CO2 in our atmosphere comes from the respiration of animals and humans, and some comes from combustion of fossil fuels (coal, natural gas, gasoline, etc.) in vehicles, factories and homes. CO2 has been identified as one of the “greenhouse gases” that contributes to global warming.

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By Lilah Heinz, Chapter Reporter | Special to the Times Vedette

ACGC FFA Advisor Skie Shull invited the new high school principal, Mr. Brian Sauser, to attend supervised agricultural experience (SAE) visits on Aug 15. One-hundred percent of the ACGC FFA Members carry out an SAE project throughout the course of the year on top of many other activities they are involved in. Out of the 53 high school members, 85% of members participate in at least one other school activity. An SAE allows students to apply what they have learned in the classroom in a real-world setting. This can range from production agriculture to service and education.

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Special to the Times Vedette

The Panora-Linden Class of 1966 met Sunday, Aug. 4 at Crafty's Coffee Shop in Panora. Everyone had a fun time, laughing and reminiscing about the good old days along with great food catered by Cafe on the Hill.

Attending were from the left, front: Connie Reynolds Richey, Ronda Easley Hafner, Rexanna Marchant Ketelsen. Back: Nyal Hodges, Larry Anderson, Sharol Merical Williams, Linda Lynam Jordan, Jim Vandevanter, Ron Tryon and Marie Jenkins Pennington (not pictured).

From the Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Iowa’s sunflower and wheat fields will be popular places on Sept. 1, when thousands of hunters slip into the standing flowers and field edges in the early morning darkness for the opening day of dove hunting season.

The 2023 season saw the highest number of doves harvested since Iowa began holding mourning dove seasons — nearly 195,000 birds — and hunters are optimistic for what 2024 has in store.

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From the Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Iowa’s pheasant hunters bagged more than 590,000 roosters last fall, the most since 2007. The 62% increase in harvest was due to a strong population of pheasants and to a 32% increase in the number of pheasant hunters.

“We’ve had a pheasant population that could support a harvest of around 600,000 birds for a few years now, but we couldn’t reach that total until our hunter numbers returned to the mid-2000s level."

[...]

From the Iowa Department of Natural Resources

The good news for Iowa’s cottontail rabbit hunters is that Iowa has an abundant rabbit population, with the southern half of the state seeing the best overall numbers. The better news for hunters is Iowa’s cottontail rabbit season begins Aug. 31 statewide.

“It should be another good year for rabbit hunting not only for experienced hunters, but for young or novice hunters who can learn necessary skills with little competition,” Todd Bogenschutz, upland wildlife research biologist for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), said.

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Former Yale City Clerk sentenced to pay more than $26,000

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

Former Yale City Clerk Jill White was sentenced in Guthrie County District Court, following a guilty plea to Theft in the First Degree, a Class C Felony.

White had been accused of taking/spending city funds. A 2023 special investigation by the Office of Auditor of State looked into records regarding the period of June 1, 2020, through June 30, 2023. The investigation found $19,384.70 in improper disbursements and $644.52 in unsupported disbursements.

White’s sentence includes 10 years in prison (suspended), five years of probation, a fine of $1,370, surcharges of $205.50, court costs of $215, and restitution of $24,677. She was also ordered to have a mental health evaluation.

The court dismissed a charge of Ongoing Criminal Conduct, a Class B Felony.

Guthrie County Hospital to pay out $52,000 in staff bonuses

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

During the regular meeting of the Guthrie County Hospital Board of Trustees, CEO Chris Stipe asked the trustees to consider approving employee bonuses for all staff. Stipe explained how, following feedback from employees, the hospital is now considering employee performance reviews (and any possible related pay increases) separately from consideration of possible employee bonuses.

[...]

Letter grades to return at ACGC High School

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

A joint meeting of the Adair-Casey and Guthrie Center school boards was held Aug. 21. Superintendent Josh Rasmussen discussed the need to revamp the grading system the high school had been using.

“We really just want to find something that works,” Rasmussen said. “And we want to make sure we are still ensuring that kids are learning…That’s the guidance I gave Brian.”

Brian Sauser, principal for grades 9-12, outlined the high school grade reporting system that ACGC will use for those students this school year.

[...]

State Auditor releases report on city of Bagley

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

The Office of Auditor of State, Rob Sand, reviewed certain financial transactions for the city of Bagley between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023. The review occurred because of a petition raising concerns regarding payroll disbursements and content of minutes including approval of pay raises and publication compliance.

The report includes a letter from Sand to the City of Bagley, dated July 31, 2024. The letter summarized the reason for the review, its parameters, general issues found, and recommendations.

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FFA members exhibit projects at Iowa State Fair

By Lilah Heinz, Chapter Reporter | Special to the Times Vedette

The ACGC FFA Chapter had six members exhibit projects at the Iowa State Fair Aug. 6-18 in various categories. Two of these members exhibited livestock projects during the 2024 events.

Gracie Hodges exhibited her Breeding Beef project, a registered Simmental Heifer. She received fifth in her class and a blue ribbon.

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Ten Squared Plus Men’s Group donations approach $400,000

Special to the Times Vedette

The total donations from the Ten Squared Plus Men’s Group to local groups and organizations now totals $399,150.

The next meeting for the Ten Squared Plus Men’s group will be Nov. 19.

For more information on Ten Squared Plus Men’s group, contact Barry Monaghan at b.monaghan@gcsbank.com

[...]

Sunshine Club takes mystery trip to Fort Dodge Aug. 16

Special to the Times Vedette

On Friday, Aug. 16, nine club members went on their one-day mystery trip tour to Fort Dodge. The first stop was at the Community Apple Orchard where we tried sampling some of their items for sale. Many of us purchased some yummy items to bring home. We also had our picture taken in the big white chair outside of the gift shop. Some sat and while some stood around the big chair. Our next stop was to see the murals on the huge silo down the road. This is the largest mural in Iowa and quite a site to see.

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Women for Panora’s Future mixer scheduled

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

The local volunteer group Women for Panora’s Future (WFPF) has been supporting Panora and surrounding communities since 1973. WFPF provides scholarships for Panorama High School seniors, celebrates local businesses, hosts the Christmas Home Tour and Panorama Days Cake Walk, and is involved with many other community activities.

Currently, the group is looking to recruit more members by welcoming everyone to an introductory event on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at Twin Vines Winery, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Food and drinks will be provided, and wine will be available for purchase.

Cribbage results from Aug. 21

Special to the Times Vedette

On Aug. 21, a total of 12 players participated. Allen Pierce, Larry Gardiner and Clint Malbon each got one 16. Robert Klever got two 16s. Dennis Betts got a 20. Sandy Rumelhart got a 20 and a 21, and Rhonda Titus got a 17 and a 21.

The Guthrie Center cribbage players generally meet at Guthrie Center Library on Mondays at 8 a.m., at the New Homestead independent living rec room at 8 a.m. on Wednesdays, and at the Guthrie Center Activity Center at 1 p.m. on Fridays. Organizers say there is always room for more, and they will be glad to teach you how to play. They play for quarters on Wednesday and Friday.

Charger collides with deer on Highway 44

Special to the Times Vedette

Guthrie County Deputy Sheriff Todd Thorn reported a car vs. deer accident occurring on Aug. 20 at 4:02 p.m. on Highway 44. Mathison Minnie Ayers, 25, of Guthrie Center was driving a 2016 Dodge Charger SXT eastbound on Highway 44 and collided with a deer in the roadway. Damage to the Charger is estimated at $7,000. No citations were issued.

Panorama to scrimmage at Martensdale-St. Marys today

By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette

Panorama football will get to see how the team will look in a game setting for the first time this season under the new leadership of head coach Charlie Lake. Panorama will be playing a scrimmage at Martensdale-St. Marys today, Aug. 23 at 7 p.m.

Panorama went 4-4 last season under former head coach Mike Kauzlarich. The team was pass-heavy last season, but Lake says the team will take a different, more run-based approach during the 2024-2025 season. Lake named Gavin Lindstrom as the team's new signal caller, with Sawyer Simmons as the team's leading returning rusher and Brayden Meinecke and Connor Love returning as the leading receivers.

Panorama volleyball's first test comes against West Central Valley next week

By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette

Panorama volleyball will get its first regular season test next week on Tuesday, Aug. 27 against West Central Valley. Last season, Panorama went 7-23 but did boast a solid WCAC record of 3-4 which left them one game out of fourth place.

Last year's team only featured two seniors, meaning the Panthers will be getting back plenty of talent heading into next week's contest. This year’s team is highlighted by a group of eight seniors, which head coach Mollie Sorber says will likely see the floor during varsity play. Look for Kelsey Laabs, Madison Mincy, Elizabeth Snyder, Hanna Smith, Faith Recker, Cayden Iredale, Madelyn Carstens and Bridgette Ewing to make an impact in 2024-2025.

Chargers host scrimmage against Des Moines Christian

By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette

Today, Aug. 23, ACGC football will be hosting Des Moines Christian in a scrimmage at 6 p.m. ACGC had a historic 2023-2024 season. The team was undefeated until losing to Madrid in the Class A quarterfinals with a trip to state on the line, finishing the season 10-1.
While the Chargers did graduate some offensive and defensive firepower, plenty returns. Jathan South and Mike Fuller were both 1,000 yard rushers last season and will look to replicate that success with the team’s ground-and-pound style offense.

ACGC volleyball regular season starts against Van Meter next week

By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette

Fresh off the heels of a successful 2023-2024, ACGC volleyball will get its first regular season action at Van Meter next Tuesday, Aug. 27 at 5 p.m.
ACGC went 21-11 last season, with its campaign ending at the hands of Dike-New Hartford in the Class 2A Region 4 final with a trip to the state tournament on the line. The Chargers did not sub often and had to say goodbye to three seniors from last year’s team that went 6-0 in the WCAC. Look for Stella Largent, Shay Lemke, Camdyn Richter and Becca Littler to make big contributions in 2024-2025.

Panorama Women’s Golf League results from Aug. 20

Special to the Times Vedette

A total of 48 women played in the Panorama Women’s Golf League on Aug. 20.

In the A group, Emily Spradling was the low scratch winner with a 30. The second low scratch winner was Julie Clausen with a 32. Emily Spradling was the HDCP winner with a 22. The special event was longest putt on hole No. 9, and Carol VanKirk was the winner. Julie Clausen and Susan Thompson had the fewest putts with 14.

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Brewster and Hansen share low score Aug. 20 in Panorama West Tuesday Men’s Golf League

Special to the Times Vedette

Aug. 20 was the final night of the regular season for Panorama West Tuesday men's league with 32 players. A low score of 31 was shared by Paul Brewster and Chip Hansen. Derek Anderson was closest to the pin. Jay Ganske made the longest putt. Jason Wolf needed only 13 putts. The scramble was won by the team of Jay Ganske, Ted Ericson and John Peters.

Next week is the league shoot out with the league tournament and banquet on Sept. 3.

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.

From the archives of The Guthrie County Vedette, Aug. 23, 1984

LIONS HONOR JANVRIN. Kip Janvrin of Panora was presented a Certificate of Outstanding Achievement and $25 by the Panora Lions Cub at its annual family night picnic. Kip was honored for placing ninth in the Decathlon in National Junior Olympic competition held recently in Los Angeles, California. He placed first with a national record in the 1,500-meter event. The Lions Club picnic was held at the Waterworks Park Aug. 16. Pictured is President Bill Dahl making the presentation to Janvrin.

Learn about new and improved features this year.

By Rich Wicks | Guthrie Center Times, Aug. 2024

The theme of the 2024 Guthrie County Fair is “Racing on into the Guthrie County Fair.” That theme seems appropriate for two reasons. Various types of racing have been popular events at the fair over the years, and the fair has traditionally been well attended by folks from throughout Guthrie County and beyond. In fact, historical reports describe traffic jams of horses, buggies and wagons as people raced to get in on the fun of the Guthrie County Fair.

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FOR RENT: Newly Renovated! 2/1 Apartment for Rent. Newly renovated 2-bed, 1-bath apartment at 502 W Market St, Panora, IA 50216. Enjoy 700 sq ft of modern living with LVP flooring, new cabinets, counter tops, fresh paint, and updated trim and doors. Under new management, this bright and stylish unit offers comfort and convenience in a welcoming community near local amenities. $800/month. Call 712-469-4033.

CHILD CARE PROVIDERS WANTED: If you’re passionate about working with children, we want to hear from you! Little Smiles is a state licensed daycare in Adair. Benefits include no nights, weekends, or holidays, paid time off, discounted child care, and matching retirement plan available. Must be 18+ years of age and pass a background check. $500 hiring bonus available! Contact littlesmilesadair@gmail.com or 641-742-3031.

PRAISE GOD FOR YOU: For showing up, working, praying, giving, loving, making or paying for meals. Many Angels too numerous to put names to, Thank you! For EMS, Police, Fire that saved lives, protected us, donated time/resources/love, Thank You! So many blessings from God through people, prayers, and generosity. Thank you! Consider this a thank you hug!

FOR SALE: Pint canning jars, $5.00/dozen. Wide mouth quart canning jars, $6.50/dozen. Call 641-757-1232.

SERVICES: Do you need any sewing, alterations or mending done? I have lots of experience. Call Bernice 641-740-1146.

An elderly couple named Bill and Helen went to the county fair each year.

One year, a man at the fair was giving helicopter rides for $50. Having never been in a helicopter, Bill begged Helen to let them ride. She refused, quipping "50 bucks is 50 bucks."

The following year, the man was there again, and again Bill begged for a ride. Again, Helen turned it down, saying "50 bucks is 50 bucks."

The third year, the same exact conversation happened, except this time the pilot overheard. He offered the couple a free ride but with one condition. They must not make a sound while in the air, or they would have to pay the $50. Bill and Helen agreed and climbed aboard.

As soon as they left the ground, the pilot began performing hair-raising maneuvers in the air, but, try as he might, he could not get the couple to utter a sound. When they finally touched down, the pilot turned to Bill and exclaimed, "That was an amazing show of self control; you have earned your free ride."

Bill replied, "Well, I almost said something when Helen fell out, but 50 bucks is 50 bucks."

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