| | Hug a tree
With the winter winds of late, any lingering leaves that were hanging on the trees are now gone. The remains are skeletons of what were plush, green examples of life just a few months ago. But those bare branches are not dead, at least not most of them. They are simply preparing for another emergence that will happen in just a few short months.
The growth of trees is truly amazing, and the comparison to the human body is an easy one to make, especially as we work through our own forms of hibernation this winter.
Think about how a tree and a human body both have physical trunks (our cores) and branches (our arms and legs) that reach out from the center. You may even find a tree or two that look like humans. If you watched “H.R. Pufnstuf” on Saturday mornings in the 1970s or were amused by Groot in “Guardians of the Galaxy” in recent years, you know exactly what I am talking about.
Our reliance on water and the sun makes us similar to trees as well. Take away one or both, and we are in big trouble. Expose us to water and the sun, and we grow and thrive.
The bark on a tree is similar to our skin, a protective layer that holds us all together. When the cuts are too deep, we can become infected with deadly diseases. Over time, we can also both become hollow and suffer slow deaths.
Although trees and humans can survive alone, we both do much better in groups or communities. But put too many in one location, and some of us will be weeded out naturally.
Maybe the most interesting comparison between humans and trees is how we need each other. As humans, we breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide. Trees do the opposite by taking in carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
Country music artist Dolly Parton has been quoted saying, “Storms make trees take deeper roots” with an obvious nod to how life’s difficult challenges make us stronger human beings, too.
So, go ahead. Hug a tree. Or better yet, make a plan this spring to plant one… or 10.
Have a terrific Tuesday, and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher
Times Vedette digital newsletter
shane@gctimesnews.com
641-332-2707 | |
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| | Supervisors set public hearing on budget amendment
By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
During the regular meeting of the Guthrie County Board of Supervisors on Jan. 14, there was discussion regarding a proposed budget amendment for the current fiscal year. County Auditor Dani Fink described some of the items that may be included.
“We’re amending $100,000 for our Board of Supervisors legal fees. For revenue, it’s $158,830 for the new Mental Health department side, and the expense for that is $168,018,” Fink said.
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| | Guthrie Center City Council to consider lowering speed limits on two streets | | | | | | | | By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
During the regular meeting of the Guthrie Center City Council on Jan. 13, Mayor Mike Herbert explained that he has continued to hear concerns about excessive traffic speed on Bluff Street. The council chose to make an agenda item for the Jan. 27 meeting to revisit the idea of possibly lowering speed limits on Bluff Street and School Street.
Compliance Officer Wes Clark updated the council on progress being made at the Morrell property on 12th Street. He said some debris is on the lawn and asked for direction from the council on how to proceed.
[...] | | | | | | | | Read the full story | |
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 | | | Panora welcomes new police officer | | | | | | | | By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
During the regular meeting of the Panora City Council on Jan. 13, Police Chief Matt Reising introduced new officer Colin Price. Price is filling a vacancy that has existed for several months, which had required Chief Reising and Officer Rock Armstrong to work longer shifts to maintain coverage for the city.
Brenda Dudley of Midwest Partnership addressed the council with an annual update on Midwest Partnership’s services, and she asked the council to consider continuing financial support for the organization. She also mentioned Midwest Partnership’s annual dinner, which is scheduled for Jan. 30.
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PICTURED: Colin Price is sworn in as a Panora police officer. | | | | | | | | Read the full story | |
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 | | | Ten Squared Men presents $20,100 to Guthrie County First Responders | | | | | | | | Special to the Times Vedette
Ten Squared Men for Guthrie County made its final contribution for 2024, a check for $20,100 to the Guthrie County First Responders. This makes the gifts for 2024 at a total of $61,200.
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PICTURED: Roberta Bauldus, Jotham Arber, Logan Wolf and Levi Johnson | | | | | | | | Read the full story | |
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| | Making snowmen at Art on State
Special to the Times Vedette
Art on State held a free art class on Saturday, Jan. 11 with five kids and two adults. They made snowmen out of socks and toilet paper with brownies for treats. The class was taught by Carol Redshaw.
Art on State is an art gallery created by the Guthrie County Arts Council as an opportunity to bring together the artists of the county, encouraging them in their talents by providing means to display and sell their work and to bring awareness of artistic endeavors to the community at large by presenting performing and visual arts programs. Art on State is located at 320 State St. in Guthrie Center. Learn more at www.guthriecountyartscouncil.org or call 641-332-2267.
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| | Audubon Lions Toy Show is Feb. 22
Special to the Times Vedette
The 34th Annual Audubon Lions Toy Show will be held Saturday, Feb. 22 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Agri-Hall at the Audubon County Fairgrounds in Audubon. This toy show is routinely scheduled for the fourth Saturday in February. The attendance is expected to be between 300 to 500 people.
Co-Chair Derek Deist says about 70 tables will be rented by 20 different vendors, featuring all varieties of farm toys, toy cars, other toys and ag-related collectibles. Attendees will find both new and vintage/antique toys.
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| | Panora Chamber holds first meeting of 2025
Special to the Times Vedette
The Panora Chamber of Commerce held its first meeting of 2025 on Monday, Jan. 13 at Restore Wellness Center. A large group attended with many new faces. Several old business, items along with a review of 2024 and planning for 2025, were discussed.
The first Annual Panora Chamber Gala event will be Feb. 1, and Wednesday, Jan. 15 is the last day to purchase tickets. Individual tickets are $60 per person. Sponsorships are $250, $500 or $1,000. For more information, visit www.panorachamber.org or the Chamber Facebook page.
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| | Volunteers needed to take down holiday lights
Special to the Times Vedette
The Panora Chamber of Commerce is asking for volunteers who can help take down the holiday lights on the town square on Tuesday, Jan. 14 at 2 p.m. If you can help, simply show up then. | |
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| | Cribbage results from Jan. 10
Special to the Times Vedette
On Friday, Jan. 10, a total of 14 players participated. Bill Sheeder had a 21; Jim Carico had a 17 and a 24; Lillian Gilson got a 16 and a 20; Dan Webb got a 24; Deb Kiefer got a 16 and a 20; John Byrd had a 16; Kay Phippen got a 20; and Sandy Rumelhart got a 16 and a 17.
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. | |
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| | OBITUARY
Judy Kopaska
1944-2025 | | | | | | | | Judy Kopaska, 80, passed away peacefully on Jan. 10, 2025. She was born on May 9, 1944, in Adair to Clyde Hallie “Hal” Kinman and Genevieve Marie (Hayes) Kinman. Judy graduated from Adair-Casey High School in 1962 and married the love of her life, Larry Kopaska, later that year at the Methodist Church in Adair.
[...] | | | | | | | | Read the full obituary | |
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| | More than 70 calls this week including Stuart Police and Guthrie County Sheriff and Deputies responding to a report of threats against a police officer and arresting one individual; Guthrie County Deputy responding to a report of animal neglect in rural Adair; and Guthrie County Deputy responding to a report of a suspicious person in Jamaica.
1-6-25
12:03 a.m. Stuart Police responded to a report of a suspicious person
5:40 a.m. Panora Ambulance and Guthrie County Sheriff responded to a medical call in Guthrie Center
6:45 a.m. Guthrie County Sheriff assisted a motorist in Guthrie Center
12:55 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy assisted a motorist
1:20 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy followed up on an investigation
1:45 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy assisted a motorist in Guthrie Center
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| | Special to the Times Vedette
2025 AG Markets and Beyond
Jan. 24, 9:30-11 a.m.
Dr. Chad Hart ISU Professor in Economics and Extension Grain Markets Specialist.
Join us for the annual AG coffee series at the Guthrie County Extension office. All events are free to attend, with no registration required.
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 | | | Panorama grinds out win against Ogden, 34-30 | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
Panorama girls basketball (7-3) won a low scoring affair at home on Friday, Jan. 10 against Ogden (1-10). Panorama had a rough shooting night, going 9/52 from the field. A worse percentage (17.3%) than Ogden’s (21.4%). However, Panorama found a way to win behind Lydia Lleshi’s game-high 12 points and Ruth Fett’s 17-rebound monster night on the glass. The Panther’s next game will be against Nodaway Valley (4-6) at home, Thursday, Jan. 16.
PICTURED: No. 3 Lydia Lleshi led Panorama in scoring with 12 points in the Panthers 34-30 win over Ogden on Jan. 10. Photo by Betty Cooper. | | | | | | | | See more photos | |
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 | | | Panthers lose close game with Ogden, 56-52 | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
Panorama boys basketball (1-9) lost its home game on Friday, Jan. 10 against Ogden (3-7). The game was tied a halftime, 31-31, and Panorama had a 6-point lead going into the fourth quarter but was unable to hang on to snap its losing streak. Panorama’s next game will be against Nodaway Valley (0-9) at home on Thursday, Jan. 16.
PICTURED: No. 13 Cruz Crandall gets around the Ogden defender during Panorama’s 56-52 loss on Jan. 10. Photo by Betty Cooper. | | | | | | | | See more photos | |
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 | | | Knapp, Schwartz, Cooper take second place at PCM Invite | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
Panorama boys wrestling competed at the PCM Wrestling Invitational at PCM High School on Saturday, Jan. 11. Three Panther wrestlers made the finals in their weight classes, all dropping the championship bouts. Will Knapp (150) lost by major decision to Jason Rivas of Des Moines East. Blake Schwartz (165) lost by fall to Mason Allen of Central Decatur. Joel Cooper (285) lost by fall to Lance Williams of Des Moines East. Panorama will travel to Southwest Valley High School for a quadrangular meet against East Union, Southwest Valley and Martensdale-St Marys on Thursday, Jan. 16.
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PICTURED: Panorama's Blake Schwartz (165) placed second at the PCM Invite on Jan. 11. Photo by Betty Cooper. | | | | | | | | See more photos and results | |
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| | Panther wrestlers travel for triangular meet
By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
Panorama girls wrestling will travel to Pleasantville High School for a triangular meet tonight, Tuesday, Jan. 14. Panorama will compete against host Pleasantville and Interstate 35. | |
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 | | | No. 7 Chargers falter in top-10 matchup with No. 2 Madrid, 84-77 | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
No. 7 ACGC boys basketball (6-1) lost its first game of the season at home on Friday, Jan. 10 against No. 2 Madrid. ACGC struggled in the second quarter, scoring only eight points, which ultimately led to the downfall. The Chargers outscored Madrid in the third and fourth quarters. Madrid’s Toryn Severson proved why he’s one of the best players in the WCAC, scoring 30 points. Jathan South did his best to counteract Severson’s offense. South scored 23 points and grabbed five rebounds. Payton Policky continued to be a force on the boards. He scored 16 points to go along with his 13 rebounds, giving the senior another double-double. Noah Kading was also effective, scoring 18 points and dishing out six assists to just two turnovers.
PICTURED: No. 3 Jathan South controls the dribble against No. 2 Madrid on Jan. 10. He had a team-high 23 points. Photo by Mark Reno. | | | | | | | | See more photos | |
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| | No. 7 Chargers storm past Exira-EHK, 93-45 | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
It appears the No. 7 ACGC boys basketball team (7-1) released some of its frustrations after losing for the first time this season the night before on Exira-EHK (2-7). ACGC hosted Exira-EHK on Saturday, Jan. 11. The game was close after the first quarter, 25-18, but ACGC pulled away in the second quarter and kept the foot on the gas. The Chargers spread the wealth in this one. All five starters scored double-digit points. Jathan South with 18, Joe Crawford with 18, Payton Policky with 16, Noah Kading with 13 and Mason Wahl with 10. Outside of the starters, every player at ACGC scored at least two points in the game. Policky, with 14 rebounds and Wahl with 10, earned double-doubles. ACGC will travel to Wells Fargo Arena tonight, Jan. 14, to face Woodward-Granger (4-7). | |
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 | | | Chargers dominate Madrid, 57-5 | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
ACGC girls basketball (7-1) put on a dominant display against Madrid (3-8) on Friday, Jan. 10. Madrid scored three points in the first quarter and two points in the fourth quarter. Other than that, this one was all ACGC. Shay Lemke led the team in scoring with 13 points. Stella Largen and Camdyn Richter, with 11 points, each joined her in double figures. Largent also had seven rebounds. Karli Kautzky led in assists with four.
Pictured: No. 44 Olivia Mahaffey attempts the shot in a crowd of Madrid defenders during ACGC’s 57-5 win on Jan. 10. Photo by Mark Reno. | | | | | | | | See more photos | |
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| | ACGC wins close battle with Exira-EHK, 60-56 | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
ACGC girls basketball (8-1) hosted Exira-EHK in a back-and-forth battle on Saturday, Jan. 11. ACGC led by three points at the end of the first, but Exira-EHK took the lead back, going into halftime up by two points, 29-27. A strong third quarter by ACGC made it 42-38 in favor of the Chargers. The teams tied in scoring in the fourth quarter, 18-18, leading to ACGC’s four-point win. Camdyn Richter shined in this one for ACGC. Richter scored 21 points on 7/14 shooting and grabbed nine rebounds, five on offense. Becca Littler scored 15 points and contributed four assists. Shay Lemke stuffed the stat sheet with eight points, eight steals, eight rebounds and four steals. ACGC will travel to Wells Fargo Arena tonight, Tuesday, Jan. 14 to play against Woodward-Granger (6-5). | |
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 | | | Cline takes championship, Sloss takes 2nd place at Tri-Center Invitational | | | | | | | | By Cyote Williams | Times Vedette
ACGC boys wrestling traveled to Tri-Center High School to compete in the Tri-Center Invitational on Saturday, Jan. 11. Ryder Cline (144) was the lone champion for ACGC at the tournament. He defeated Mark Gant of Hinton by fall in the championship match. Gavin Sloss (126) was the only other Charger to make it to the first-place match. He was defeated by Riley Watts of Lawton-Bronson by decision. ACGC’s next time on the mat will be Thursday when they travel to Riverside High School for a quadrangular meet against host Riverside, Tri-Center and Woodbine.
PICTURED: ACGC's Gavin Sloss breaks down his opponent during a previous competition. Photo by Mark Reno | |
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| | More than just books | | | | | | | | By Karen Kelly | Special to the Times Vedette
After a couple of weeks disrupted by holiday breaks and winter weather, the If you have stopped in the library lately, you might have noticed a new face. Lynda Menefee recently joined the library staff. She took this job because she loves reading, wants to meet new people, and wants the opportunity to work with children.
After earning her bachelor’s degree in education at Northwest Missouri State, Lynda taught first and second grades in Perry for eight years. She then came to Guthrie Center where she taught fourth grade for a year before moving to first grade. Lynda retired after 35 years in Guthrie Center. After retiring, she missed being in the classroom, so she worked as a substitute and an associate.
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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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 | | | 50 years ago | | | | | | | | From the archives of The Guthrie Center Times, Jan. 1, 1975
1974 WINNER. Kimberly Rumelhart, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ted Rumelhart, learns after reading an issue of the Guthrie Center Newspapers she will soon relinquish her crown as the county’s first baby. Kimberly was one of the latest arrivals in the traditional contest as she wasn’t born until Jan. 27, 1974. | | | | | | | | See more Yester Years | |
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 | | | Bluebirds will winter in Iowa for mealworms | | | | | | | | By Susan Thompson | Lake Panorama Times, December 2024
The Eastern Bluebird is found in all North American states east of the Rockies. Many in northern states migrate south in the winter, but some remain near their nesting areas if they can find a reliable food supply.
Nature photographer Trish Hart and her husband Scott live in a home on Andrew’s Cove, and have several different types of bird feeders on their deck.
[...] | | | | | | | | Read the full story | |
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