Auditor announces
election deadlines 
The Adams County General Election will be held Tuesday, Nov. 5, and absentee ballot deadlines are nearing.
The first day absentee ballots may be mailed or voted in the auditor’s office is Wednesday, Oct. 16.
The voter pre-registration deadline to vote in the General Election is 5 p.m. Monday Oct. 21. This applies to registration in person or by mail. There is election day registration, but specific documentation must be provided. If possible, voters should register before election day. The auditor’s office will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for absentee voting and other election business. The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail is 5 p.m. on this day. 
The auditor’s office will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, for absentee voting and other election business.
The last day to request and vote an absentee ballot in person at the auditor’s office is Monday, Nov. 4. The office will be open until 4:30 p.m.
Election Day Information
Polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5.
Polling Places are Corning Community Center, Adams 1; Corning Opera House (new location), Adams 2; Redeemer Lutheran Church, Adams 3; Nodaway Community Center, Adams 4; Prescott City Hall/Library, Adams 5.
The Adams County auditor’s office is open from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information about voter registration, absentee ballots, or voting, call the auditor’s office at 641-322-3340, visit www.adamscounty.iowa.gov or www.sos.iowa.gov for trusted sources of information. 

Widener Building
​project kicks off
An 1885 cornerstone landmark in Main Street Corning’s Historic Commercial District is in the process of a building revitalization project that will be the site of anew entrepreneurial program.
The Z.T. Widener building at 729 Davis Ave. has become the focus of the “Save the Widener” Capital Campaign as part of the revitalization project.
Three years ago, Adams Community Economic Development Corporation and Main Street Corning identified a need for an entrepreneurial incubator program in Adams County.
This led to the formation of a seven-member ACTION committee, which is a branch of ACEDC, to explore the idea and advance the initiative.
In 2022, the ACTION committee considered several buildings in the district to house this new program at one focused location. Once ACTION chose a building, the committee pursued both federal and state government development grants. The committee successfully secured nearly $1 million in grants to help purchase and renovate this building. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, the Z.T. Widener building emerged as a viable alternative. This multi-faceted building offered more space for offices, retail space and upper story housing. After receiving approval from the government agencies to transfer the grants, ACTION then shifted its focus to the revitalization of the historic Widener Building. It has been a cornerstone landmark since 1885 in Main Street Corning’s Historic Commercial District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Recognizing the building’s rich heritage, location, and varied functional space, the committee hired MA Architecture, from Des Moines, to develop schematic plans for ACTION’s vision and to use the plans for more grant applications. One of the goals was to maintain the building’s unique character and historical significance while adapting it for modern commercial, residential, and entrepreneurial use. This revitalization aims to transform the building into a central hub of activity, breathing new life and opportunities in the district and community.
In July of this year, ACEDC purchased the building from the city of Corning. Because of the city’s investment, with grant assistance, the building had significant stabilization work completed. To prevent further deterioration to the building, the city also installed new upper story windows, tuckpointing, sidewalks, and other exterior work so the building could be saved. 
The revitalization project will include a minimum of three retail spaces, three office areas, a conference room, and two 1,250-square-foot upper-story apartments. One of the new features that the building will house is an incubator program that will foster entrepreneurship in a supportive environment which is designed to help new businesses grow and thrive. It will offer resources such as office space, mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and access to funding for expansion. By providing these essential tools and support systems, the business incubator aims to increase the success rate of startups and foster innovation in the retail, service, and other business sectors. 
The project is currently estimated to cost $3.2 million and is scheduled to begin construction in late 2024. Over the past two years, over $1 million has been secured through grants from state and federal agencies and private foundations and nearly $900,000 from lead contributors in the community. However, the project still requires $1.3 million dollars to reach its funding goal.
“It is a tall task for any community our size but as always, we are determined, with public support, to see this project to completion” said Donna Hogan, ACEDC Board president. 
The ACTION committee has launched the “Save the Widener” Capital Campaign to secure the remaining needed funds to complete the project through financial donations and grants. The campaign seeks tax-deductible pledges over a two-year period. 
For the past month, ACTION has been actively seeking commitments from public and private entities, families and individuals in Adams County and former residents and alumni. The capital campaign will be broadening out to its citizens in the coming weeks. The ACTION committee consists of Jaime McManis, Donna Hogan, Betsy Akin, Raelynne Risser, Tysen Christensen, Alec Turner, and Scott Akin with other individuals, including Mike Grundman, who are assisting in the capital campaign. 
“The Widener Building serves as a link to the past and unique cultural identity as a part of our Main Street District,” ACTION chairperson Betsy Akin said. “This revitalization of the building is seen as crucial for fostering new businesses, increasing tourism, generating jobs, and boosting property and tax revenues, thereby enriching the city, county, and schools.”
The project updates and plans, including functional explanations and pictures of each floor of the building, will be published in the Free Press in the coming weeks. These updates will offer insight into the renovation progress and the envisioned future use of the building. Keep an eye on the Free Press for these important developments.
“ACEDC and the Save The Widener Capital Campaign Committee want to thank those who have committed to being a partner in this important project in our community,” Akin said. “Together, Adams County can inspire and enrich the lives of our residents, visitors, and entrepreneurs and restore this unique building for future generations.”
For more information, contact Raelynne Risser at the ACEDC office at 641-322-5229. 

Opera House to host ‘Madagascar’

“Madagascar, A Musical Adventure Jr.” is coming to the Corning Opera House.

The youth musical is the tale of Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, and Gloria the Hippo escaping their home in New York City’s Central Park Zoo and finding themselves on an unexpected journey to King Julien’s Madagascar. 

Performances will take place at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 12, and, Thursday, June 13 at the Corning Opera House Cultural Center. Based on the DreamWorks animated movie, the best friends, with some help from the penguins, explore the world and land on an island near Africa filled with foosa and lemurs.

The cast is made up of youth ages 7 to 14 from across southwest Iowa. The Zoosters are Sam Stalker, Izzy Zimmerman, Eva Helvie and October Edwards. The Zookeepers are Reese Wetzel, Lizzy Martin, Margaret Haley, Madalynn Bortell, and Alexia McManis. The penguins are Javen Hyde, Jack Morgan, Bethany Gerlock, and Wyn Helvie. The Lemurs are Miles Jones, Hadley Stalker, Veda Bissell, Madison McManis, Ada Buck, and Alli Bowman. 

The Lionesses are Riley Veitz, Hadley Mealey, and Hallea Mitchell. The New Yorkers are Matias Gibeau, Maizee Giraro, Lahkoda Anderson, Alleeah Longfellow, Jude Fidler, Silas Gerlock, Riker McGinas, and Sebastian Haley.  Some characters have double parts as lemurs, foosa, lionesses, and servers.

The cast has 14 90-minute rehearsals over a four-week period. Each youth is responsible for learning their speaking lines, singing parts, and choreography. The final week of rehearsals costumes, props, lights and sound effects are added which make the show come to life, production manager De Heaton said.

The musical is directed by Cheryl Thompson, sound technician is Bonnie Goodson-Gibeau, and light designer is Brad Heaton. Former actors (Lucey Zech, Emma DeVore, and Halle Burgmaier) are helping with set design, backstage, make up and light operator. 

For information about the performance and tickets, go to www.CorningOperaHouse.com. Any person requiring a seat must have a ticket. The building is handicapped accessible, and the concession stand will be available.

​One dead following tornado

Cleanup continues after a round of thunderstorms swept strong wind and destructive tornados through Adams County and other parts of the state May 21.

A 46-year-old Shenandoah woman, Monica Irma Zamarron, was killed when high winds blew her vehicle off the road on Highway 48 north of Corning.

Damage stretched in a northwest path across the county, destroying homes and outbuildings, bending wind turbines, uprooting trees, scattering belongings, and knocking down powerlines. The National Weather Service’s initial storm surveys say the storms brought EF-3 damage to Adams County, EF-4 damage in Greenfield, and EF-2 damage in Polk and Story County.

The NWS tracked the paths of two tornadoes in Adams County, the first at about 2:43 p.m. near 130th Street and J Avenue in northern Page County, southeast of Coburg. The EF-3 reached speeds of 140-150 mph as the tornado tracked along a 32-mile long path 3/4 miles wide.

Damage was done to trees and outbuildings in Page County. It intensified as it crossed into Montgomery County at O Street, where several homes were damaged. The tornado continued to intensify as it moved west of Villisca. A communications tower was toppled, and homes were damaged near the Highway 34 and 71 intersection. The most significant damage was done to homes near 240th Street and T Avenue, as well as Highway 71 and 235th Street. The tornado hit a campground at Hacklebarney Woods, where damage was done to RVs and trees. The tornado continued to strengthen as it moved into Adams County (details on this part of the tornado track is still to be released).

The NWS says the tornado that struck Greenfield passed through portions Adams County. Eventually becoming an EF-4 tornado, it began at about 2:57 p.m. in far northeast Page County near the intersection of 110th Street and Vine Avenue. The tornado reached wind speeds of 175-185 mph along its nearly 44-mile path.

The tornado then crossed into Adams County, missing the town of Nodaway by a few miles to the south. It then missed Brooks and Corning to the west. It crossed into Adair County between Quince and Redwood Avenue. The tornado reached EF-4 intensity in southern Adair County and in Greenfield, where catastrophic damage occurred to the southeast side of town. The tornado lifted northeast of Greenfield. The NWS is still conducting damage surveys, so a detailed recount of the damage is forthcoming and will be added when information becomes available.

The extent of damage in Adams County is still being determined but the Adams Community Foundation has established a Disaster Recovery Fund to support those who suffered damage caused May 21.

Memorial Day services
to honor vets
Flag ceremonies and memorial services will make this Memorial Day weekend in Adams County as communities honor local military personnel who died serving the U.S. 

Corning American Legion Post 117 and the Corning Fire Department will present at Memorial Day observance ceremony at 11 a.m. May 27 at Corning Central Park Veterans Memorial.

The program will include The National Anthem by veteran Tim Birdsall, Southwest Valley student speakers, a flag presentation and the reading of names, a performance by the SWV student band, and a flag retirement ceremony followed by Taps.

Grant community members will hold a memorial service at the Grant Cemetery at 11 a.m. May 25. 
In case of inclement weather, the service will move to the Grant UM Church. No Memorial Day dinner is planned at the church this year; however, attendees can get lunch at The Hayloft on May 25.

American Legion Post Woodside Post 97 in Clearfield will meet at 8 a.m. May 25 at the Clearfield Cemetery to put up the Avenue of Flags and place a flag and cross on each veteran’s grave. In the event of rain, the flag installation will begin when the rain stops.

A Memorial Day program by the Legion’s chaplain the Rev. Al Rusk will be held at 9:30 a.m. May 27 in the Lion’s Hall. Following the program, those attending will proceed to the cemetery, weather permitting, for a short program. Grover Mains will be honored this year as the last deceased veteran buried.

Woodside Post 97 members will meet at 2 p.m. May 27 at the cemetery to take down the Avenue of Flags and remove the decorations from veterans’ graves. In the event of rain, flags and crosses will be removed from veterans’ graves as soon as the rain stops. The Avenue of Flags must remain up until the flags dry.

Primary to take place June 4

The Adams County primary election will be held on Tuesday, June 4, to nominate party candidates for the general election.  

Only voters registered with the Democratic, Republican or Libertarian parties (or people who declare their affiliation with a party when casting a ballot) are allowed to vote in primary elections, according to the Adams County Auditor’s Office. The following is a listing of special hours the Auditor’s Office will be open and deadlines concerning the primary.

Absentee ballot requests — Requests for absentee ballots to be mailed may be filed with the Auditor’s Office through Monday, May 20, at 5 p.m.

Wednesday, May 8 – Public test of voting equipment at 2 p.m. in the Board Room. The public is invited to observe, as well as the chairs of the various parties.

Wednesday, May 15 – First day that absentee ballots may be mailed or voted in-person through the Auditor’s Office. The first day to vote in-person at the Auditor’s Office and the first day ballots can be mailed is Wednesday, May 15.

Monday, May 20 – Auditor’s Office open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Voter pre-registration deadline to vote in the primary election, also deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail — This applies to registration in person or by mail. There is Election Day registration, but specific documentation must be provided. 

Friday, May 31 — Auditor’s Office open until 5 p.m.

Saturday, June 1 – 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Auditor’s Office will be open for absentee voting and other election business.

Monday, June 3 – 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Last day to request and vote an absentee ballot in person at the auditor’s office.

Election Day, June 4 — Polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Polling places:
Adams 1 — Corning Community Center
Adams 2 — Corning Public Library
Adams 3 — Redeemer Lutheran Church
Adams 4 — Nodaway Community Center
Adams 5 — Prescott City Hall/Library

Adams County voters are urged to be Voter Ready and have a plan to vote in the June primary. Contact the Auditor’s Office with any questions or concerns about the primary at 641-322-3340.

Lake Icaria gains new trees

The Adams County Conservation Board, POET Bioprocessing-Corning, and Southwest Valley FFA celebrated Earth Day April 22 by planting 11 new shade trees, mulching them, and protecting them with posts and wire at Lake Icaria.

“It was a great Earth Day at Lake Icaria,” Adams County Conservation Board director Travis Paul said. “The Adams County Conservation Board would like to send a sincere thanks to POET and the Southwest Valley FFA Chapters.”

Volunteers from POET and the SWV FFA High School and Middle School chapters volunteered their time and skills to assist park staff with planting the trees.

“We have lost about 40 shade trees in our campgrounds alone over the last few years,” Paul said. “Some of the trees have been badly damaged by storms and had to be removed, but the majority of the trees lost around the park over the last several years have been ash trees.”

The emerald ash borer is an insect that bores into the bark of the trees where it lays its eggs, Paul said. When the larvae hatch they feed on the cambium layer of the tree just under the bark, in time that damage will kill the tree. 

“We have had to remove many other dead ash trees throughout the rest of the park as well, so we are definitely in a replanting time period,” Paul said. “We have worked with our area forester and came up with a plan to help re-establish nice shade trees throughout the park. Her recommendation was to stick with the native species as much as possible, but to mix up our tree species. It seems like whatever is recommended and safe to grow now will have another insect or disease attack those trees 30 to 50 years from now when these trees are full grown and beautiful trees. In this tree planting we had a couple varieties of oaks, several maples, linden, and birch.”

To donate a tree or make a monetary donation to Lake Icaria, contact the ACCB office at 641-322-4793 or mail a tax deductible donation to Adams County Conservation Foundation, 1756 Juniper Ave., Corning, IA 50841. 

Energy ordinance advances to draft

The Adams County Zoning Commission decided on setbacks, height, sound levels, decommissioning plans, and other details concerning wind turbines in the county at its April 22 renewable energy meeting.

The commission spent about two and a half hours on the wind energy ordinance before addressing the solar ordinance. Much of the discussion was spent on how large setbacks for wind turbines should be and whether to measure a setback from a landowner’s property line or residence.

Zoning Commission member Jason McManis said a setback of a half mile from the property line but fellow member Tony Mullen said he had a “problem with the property line.”

“Everything is off of property lines,” McManis said about other county ordinances. 

Mullen argued that measuring from the property line for setbacks limits the number of turbines that can be constructed in the county. Zoning chair Rob Tucker shared a handout of his home obtained from the county assessor’s office highlighting what a setback for his property and his neighbors would mean at 1,200 feet, 1,500 feet, and 2,500 feet.

“That extra 500 feet affects the neighbors,” he said.

Tucker said that when the setback increases from 1,500 feet to 2,500 feet a turbine 591 feet tall will encroach on a neighbor’s property. He said Adair County, which has more than 500 wind turbines, has a setback of 2,000 feet from a dwelling while Ringgold County, which has no wind turbines, has a setback of a half mile from a landowner’s property line.

“So what creates the best balance for the county?” Tucker asked. “That’s why we’re here. To have the best balance.

McManis suggested setbacks should be a half mile or 2,640 feet from a landowner’s property line, which could be waived if neighboring landowners agreed. Mullen felt that was too great a setback.

“If we go a half mile we’re wasting our time,” he said.

Mullen said 1,500 to 1,800 feet from a dwelling would be acceptable. 

“I thought 1,200 feet was good,” he said. 

Tucker said when he came into the meeting that evening he was considering a setback of 2,000 feet from a dwelling but the existing ordinance is 1,200 feet.

“I’m just not comfortable being the close,” McManis said.

McManis said wind turbines that close to a neighbor’s property would limit or preclude where a landowner or his descendants could build a future home and not be affected by the turbines.

Tucker used the handout of his property line to say that at 1,500 feet neighboring landowners would be protected. He suggested setbacks of 2,000 feet from a residences or two times the height of a wind turbine from the property line, which the commission agreed upon. 

Total turbine height was set at 591 feet at the time of original construction. Repowered or replacement turbines would face an additional setback of one foot for each additional foot of height. Tucker said the one-to-one setback would force wind companies “to do some forward thinking.”

A decommissioning plan will require wind turbine companies to enter a financial security agreement with the Adams County Board of Supervisors prior to construction and set up an escrow account or bond to pay for decommissioning. The agreement will be reevaluated every three years and updated.

Air Detection Lighting Systems will be part of the ordinance. Turbines constructed without ADLS must install the system within 18 months after FAA approval. Noise levels were set at 55 decibels. Shadow flicker was limited to 30 hours a year. The application fee for wind companies was set at $1,000.

The commission also took action on the county’s solar energy ordinance section at the meeting. The entire renewable energy ordinance will be updated with the commission’s decisions and return in draft form at the commission’s May 6 meeting at 5:30 p.m. at the Corning Community Center before going to the board of supervisors.

Prom royalty

Panel presents renewable energy concerns

A panel of six area residents presented their concerns and solutions concerning renewable energy April 8 to the public and the Adams County Zoning Commission at the Corning Community Center.

The six members — Kurt Stoakes, Rob Stewart, Hartford Jackson, Marnie Cline, Adair County supervisor Jerry Walker, Ringgold County supervisor Colby Holmes — answered 10 questions presented by Zoning Commission member Jason McManis.

Zoning chairman Rob Tucker said at the commission’s March 18 meeting it would be a good idea to invite county supervisors from neighboring counties with and without wind turbines to share what’s worked and what hasn’t for renewable energy in their counties. Holmes said Adair County has more than 500 wind turbines while Walker said Ringgold County residents expressed little interest in turbines there.

The first two questions concerned the distance of setbacks and how to measure them. Distance ranged from 1,200 feet to 2,100 feet from a residence, as it is in Adair County, on up to 3,800 feet for a property line. Thoughts on turbine height restrictions ranged from 50 feet from the ground to the bottom of a turbine blade, as it is in Ringgold County where there are no wind turbines, up to 591 feet for the turbine’s total height. Holmes said height is regulated by the FAA, which is 500 feet. Many members of the panel said regardless of the height, setbacks should be based on the height of the turbines. 

“You know they’re going to make them bigger,” Stewart said.

The total number of turbines allowed in Adams County ranged widely from allowing a total of 200-300 to capping the total to the existing 121 turbines in the county. Others suggested setting the cap at 150 and the reevaluate how the additional turbines affect the county.

Almost all panel members agreed regardless of the number of turbines allowed or the setback distances allowing neighboring landowners to waiver setback distances if they agree would be a good idea.

“We spent months on this,” Walker said. “The last thing we wanted in Ringgold County as neighbors not getting along. … I don’t want people telling me what I can do with my property.”

The panel also agreed a strong decommissioning plan by establishing an escrow account to pay for decommissioning should be part of a renewable energy ordinance. Holmes said Adair County has no decommissioning clause. Jackson said decommissioning could be “the biggest problem of all for future generations.”

“If we don’t address this our children and grandchildren will have to address it,” he said.

The panel also addressed Air Detection Lighting Systems, noise levels, and shadow flicker. ADLS is a sensor-based monitor that detects approaching aircraft and temporarily turns on the flashing warning lights atop wind turbines. Holmes said Adair County has ADLS on its northern wind turbines but smaller aircraft do now always trigger the system. Ringgold County has no ADLS ordinance, Walker said. Stewart and Jackson said the system should be required on new projects. Cline said that in addition to any new projects ADLS should be added as older turbines are updated.

The panel seemed to agree noise levels shouldn’t be an issue if sufficient setbacks are part of the ordinance. Stoakes, who has turbines on his property, said the noise level seems to increase when there is moisture in the air. He said he has one turbine about a quarter mile from his home.

“I’m used to it,” he said. “The harder the wind blow probably the less you hear it.”

Walker said Adair County has no noise ordinance. Of the county’s more than 500 turbines, it receives complaints from the same two couples each month. Jackson said regardless of the decibel levels allowed, noise levels should be measured at the property line by a certified technician.

Limiting or eliminating shadow flicker brought up questions of enforcement. Cline felt large enough setbacks would solve shadow flicker but said the turbines could be shut down in peak times of shadow flicker. Stoakes and Stewart said shutting them down brings up reinforcement concerns.

“Who’s going to manage when to shut down the turbines?” he said.

The final question presented was “It has been suggested that there be no changes to the current wind energy ordinance. a. Do you agree or disagree, and why?” All panel members agree more should be done to Adams County’s wind energy ordinance though Walker said that may soon be in the hands of the Iowa Legislature. He said the House or the Senate is working on a bill that will mandate renewable energy ordinances for the state but Jackson didn’t believe there was enough support to pass the bill and that’s why a strong ordinance is needed.

Although the panel focused almost solely on wind energy, Walker spoke about Adair County’s 86-acre solar field. He said the county saw no income for its first two years of operation but is now receiving about $21,000 for its 36 million kilowatts of solar. 

Walker said Adair County receives about $10 million annually from its more than 500 turbines for tax increment financing for infrastructure such as road and bridges. Holmes said Ringgold County could find only seven landowners interested in installing wind turbines.

“Our residents didn’t want them,” he said. 

Holmes said when Ringgold County set its wind turbine cap at 20 renewable energy companies told him “you’re making it tough.” He said regardless of how many wind turbines a county allows or how the ordinance is written it can be amended. 

“Any board of supervisors can change it,” he said. “You can tweak it.”

The Adams County Zoning Commission is scheduled to meet next at 5:30 p.m. April 22 at the Corning Community Center. The commission will prepare a wind energy ordinance draft to be submitted for legal approval. Following that, the draft returns to the Zoning Commission before going to the Board of Supervisors for final approval.

Open 4 Business selection named

The Main Street Board of Directors and executive director have announce that Corning Family Chiropractic has been selected for the Main Street Iowa Open 4 Business contest to represent Main Street Corning.

Owner Dr. Anna Leonard will now move on to the next round, where she will be required to complete an application, budget, and a three-minute video pitch about her business idea by May 1. A panel of judges from across the state will evaluate the online application, budget, and video pitch and select the top four applicants in the three population categories to move on to the semi-finals. 

“Congratulations to owner Dr. Anna Leonard,” Main Street Corning president Betsy Akin said. “If Dr. Anna is one of the 12 semi-finalists chosen, she will participate in an online virtual interview on June 12.” 

The judges will select five finalists who will compete on stage with their live pitch during the Iowa Downtown Conference in Cedar Rapids on the evening of Aug. 5.

“Best of luck to Dr. Anna,” Akin said

Shuey making waves
​in assists

While the Hawkeyes’ Caitlin Clark is bringing pride to Iowa as an all-time leading scorer in Division I women’s basketball, a Southwest Valley graduate is making a name for herself and the Seahawks for assists in Division III.

Salve Regina University women’s basketball team captain Morgan Shuey is seventh in the nation for assists in her division, averaging six assists per game. 

Shuey played the 100th and final game of her collegiate career Feb. 21 in an 89-43 quarterfinal defeat against No. 1 Springfield College in Springfield, Mass. She finished with 843 points and 391 assists, the latter representing the fourth-most all-time in program history.

Shuey is enrolled in the combined bachelor's/master's program for healthcare administration with a concentration in cybersecurity and expects to finish in May 2024. Outside of the classroom, she was a captain of the women's basketball team, vice president of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee and an NCAA Division III academic all-conference honoree.

“As a student-athlete at Salve Regina, I’ve had continuous support both in the classroom and on the basketball court,” explained Shuey. “The University is committed to seeing students succeed in the classroom and with their respected sport.”

Not only is Shuey a student-athlete, but she is an inductee of Sigma Phi Sigma, a volunteer at the Rhode Island Blood Center and the American Cancer Society, a founding member of Salve Regina’s chapter of The American College of Healthcare Executives, and a mentor at Learning Unlimited —  a program for mentality disabled children.

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Panel to help
​with renewable plan

The Adams County Zoning Commission will form a panel of local residents to work with the commission as it moves forward with creating wind and solar ordinances for the county.

The commission held a public hearing March 18 at the Corning Community Center that included a question and answer session with Invenergy and MidAmerican Energy as well as a public comment session where audience members could share their top three concerns and solutions to those concerns about renewable energy in the county.

Following an hour-long Q&A with representatives from the two wind companies, Zoning Commission member Jason McManis told the audience the commission wanted feedback from the public.

“We have a lot of opinions here,” McManis said prior to the public comment section. “We want to hear from everybody.”

Zoning chairman Rob Tucker said it would be a good idea to invite county supervisors from neighboring counties — with and without wind turbines — to share what’s worked and what hasn’t for renewable energy in their counties. 

More than a half dozen audience members said they would be willing to serve on a panel to work with the commission just before the meeting adjourned. The commission will select from the volunteers and put together the panel, which will appear on the next zoning meeting agenda, tentatively scheduled for April 22.

The March 18 meeting began with Invenergy’s Isaac Lamppa and Merlin Bartz and MidAmerican’s Will Dougherty fielding written questions from the audience and presented by McManis. The two wind companies fielded questions about decommissioning costs, setbacks, Aircraft Detection Light Systems, turbine heights, noise levels, shadow flicker, easement agreements, Emergency Medical Services training, drainage tile protection, liability, crop damage, good neighbor agreements, and other concerns.

Decommissioning and restoration costs and who is responsible for them was one concern. Lamppa said Invenergy enters a decommissioning agreement with the county and a third party conducts a survey to determine costs. He also said Invenergy would set up a bond so that even if the company would go bankrupt the county would have funds to decommission the project. As far as MidAmerican’s decommissioning of wind turbines, Dougherty said “we are on the hook for decommissioning costs.”

Setbacks was another topic. Invenergy said the smallest setbacks take place in the state’s unzoned counties, such as Chickasaw, while the largest setback is 1,800 feet from a residence in Webster County. Landowners there have the ability to waive the setback if they desire.

Lamppa said 1.1 times the height of a turbine is a good distance but throughout the state 1,500-foot setbacks have been “a good balance.” He said county ordinances will determine the setback distance.

“We would like to take a look at that as well,” he said.

Turbine height was another concern. Invenergy said their wind turbines’ maximum tip height ranges from 600 feet in Union County to 499 feet in Chickasaw County.

“We look at all the projects and decide what is best for the project,” Lamppa said.

He said operations in Adams County are not scheduled to begin until 2028-2029 so by that time turbine heights are expected to be higher. Dougherty said as the technology changes turbine heights will change. He said longer blades create better wind efficiency and in most scenarios turbines increase in height.

Following the Q&A, Roger Vicker with Adams County Priceless Land Coalition, was given the opportunity to question Invenergy and MidAmerican further. Vicker asked about land lease buyout clauses, the lack of EMS training a year and a half after work began on the Southern Hills project, the recycling of decommissioned turbines, and even oil leaks on some MidAmerican wind turbines.

About two dozen audience members shared their concerns and their solutions during public comment. Many of those asked for a wind turbine cap height of 591 feet, noise levels at 40 decibels, setbacks 3,280 feet from the property line, the addition of ADLS on wind turbines, and a turbine quantity cap of 150 — or set the cap at the existing 121 wind turbines in Adams County.

DEBORAH THORNTON/Free Press — As part of his annual visits to all 99 counties, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig reads to Corning Elementary School students March 7.

Naig reads
​to Corning students

March is Read Across Iowa Month and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and communications director Don McDowell visited Corning Elementary School on March 7.

Naig read the book “My Family’s Dairy Farm” to Christy Ayers’ pre-kindergarten class. The students learned how cows give milk to make such foods as cheese, yogurt, and ice cream.

Afterward Naig, McDowell, and Adams County Ag in the Classroom coordinator Marilea Mullen helped students make their own ice cream by shaking plastic bags filled with ice cream ingredients.

Ayers also has a hydroponics system in her classroom that Secretary Naig got to see in action.
Read Across Iowa is an annual event held on the first of March and is celebrated throughout the month of March to help motivate children to read. The 2024 theme is Food Science.

According to the Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation, a Read Across Iowa partner, research shows that reading to children and having books at home are among the strongest predictors of school success. Children who read and listen to books hear a greater variety of words — up to 50 percent more — leading to a better vocabulary than those who watch media.

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Open 4 Business
contest now open
Businesses in downtown Corning looking to grow could benefit from an Open 4 Business grant.

Main Street Corning is looking for interested entrepreneurs who could use dollars to expand and grow their business idea within the Main Street Corning district.

The Open 4 Business contest, launched in 2015, is an opportunity for businesses located within a state-designated Main Street District to compete for a chance to win up to $25,000 in grant funds to assist with a business development or expansion project that will help them grow their business, Main Street Corning’s Jami Fletchall said. Businesses must complete an online application and submit a short video outlining their business idea and how it will benefit the local economic climate in their community. A 25 percent cash match is required. Businesses must have been in operation for at least one year to apply. The Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Downtown Resource Center and Main Street Iowa Program administer the grant funds. 

Applications are available from Main Street Corning to be filled out and sent back by March 15. 

“After we have received all applications, the Main Street board will then vote on which one will be chosen to move forward in the competition,” Fletchall said. “Each designated Main Street Community may submit one local business applicant that could represent Main Street Corning. You may be chosen to move on to the next round and be selected as one of the five finalists held in Cedar Rapids on Aug. 5, 2024.”

For complete details about this program, contact Jami Fletchall at (641) 322-3145 or email at [email protected]m.

Comp plan heads to BOS

The Adams County Zoning Commission unanimously approved the Renewable Energy Chapter of the county Comprehensive Plan and will forward it on to the county Board of Supervisors following a public hearing Feb. 19 at the Corning Community Center.

About 60 people attended phase three of the draft review and while there was some support for more wind turbines in the county, the overwhelming majority of those attending continued their opposition to adding additional wind turbines.

Chris Shires of Confluence presented phase three of the Renewable Energy Chapter, reiterating the role of the Comprehensive Plan and the county’s options for creating ordinances for additional wind turbines and solar farms. He said it’s important the Zoning Commission “balances the property rights” of both participants and non-participants. The county needs to create an approval process for wind and solar power, he said, either through a board of adjustment to determine each project or through zoning districts in the county.

“For both, setbacks are important,” Shires said.

Shires also shared additions to the plan to limit shadow flicker and noise levels as well as controlled obstruction lights for wind turbines, which will require both FAA and FCC approval. He said the additions could be made in the plan itself or written into an energy ordinance. The Zoning Commission decided to include the additions as part of an ordinance.

Public comment was again limited to three minutes per person but the Zoning Commission questioned some of the speakers following their comments. Tom Reavely, an attorney for the Adams County Priceless Land Coalition, said Coalition members have not been represented by the Zoning Commission or the Board of Supervisors. He said there is a conflict of interest by some Zoning Commission members and he has submitted petitions, surveys, and other documents to the commission. Reavely said he submitted a petition for a moratorium on wind energy with 945 signatures to the county that had a voter turnout of only 1,200 in its last election.

“You’re just ignoring this,” he said.

Reavely said on Sept. 19 he learned there was going to be a public hearing with the Zoning Commission on Oct. 16. On Oct. 3, he said a draft of the renewable energy ordinance had been posted on the Adams County website a week and a half before public comment was allowed at the Oct. 16 meeting but that draft was removed from the website.

Jeanne Jackson with Adams County Priceless Land Coalition shared the results from a 12-question survey she conducted with the 950 county residents who signed a moratorium on wind turbines in the county. She received 268 responses to the survey ranging in age from 18 to 83 years old.

The survey showed 257 respondents oppose more wind turbines in the county and the same number prefer the county to remain largely rural agriculture as opposed to industrial. Other results include 249 prefer a two-year moratorium on new wind turbines, 243 believe setbacks should be measured from an individual’s property line instead of his home foundation, 161 oppose new wind turbines altogether, 245 believe the Board of Supervisors is not listening to their concerns and 234 believe the Zoning Commission is not listening.


Matt Olive also expressed his concerns about possible contamination or disruption of his well water when the wind towers are installed. He asked that an ordinance be added to require the construction company or legal owner of the turbine be required to restore non-participants’ purity of water sources should they be contaminated by installation of a turbine.

Shires said a clause protecting a person’s water source from disruption or contamination from turbine installation could be added to the Comprehensive Plan or the county energy ordinance.

After approving the Renewable Energy Chapter of the plan, Zoning Commission chairman Rob Tucker said he has asked Invenergy to take part in a question and answer session with the public at its March 11 meeting. The questions would be presented in written form.

“We’ve been getting a lot of technical questions,” Tucker said.

Zoning Commission member Jason McManis also asked the public to prioritize their concerns as the county moves forward with a renewable energy ordinance. He asked for information about setbacks, turbine heights and limits, and other issues as well as possible solutions for the next public hearing.
“Be specific with numbers,” he said.

The Comprehensive Plan will go before the Board of Supervisors at its March 4 meeting. The Zoning Commission and Invenergy will meet at 5:30 p.m. March 18 at the Corning Community Center to discuss the renewable energy ordinance.

Three T-Wolves state bound

Three Timberwolf wrestlers qualified for the Iowa High School Athletic Association State Wrestling Tournament after earning spots Feb. 10 in the district wrestling tournament at Riverside High School in Oakland.

Southwest Valley seniors Tate Haffner and Brayden Maeder and junior Ian Forsythe punched their ticket to state by finishing in the top two at their respective weight class. The Timberwolves took 12 wrestlers to Oakland to participate in the 10-team tournament, with the top two finishers at each weight class qualifying for the state tournament in Des Moines on Feb. 14-17. The Timberwolves finished in four places as a team with 110 points.

Senior Tate Haffner was the district champion with two first period pins, earning his second trip to the state tournament.

“Tate has a great season at 190 pounds, he goes into the state tournament with a 41-4 record with only one of his losses to a Class 1-A wrestler,” head coach Cody Konence said. “We look for Tate to continue winning and hopefully earn a spot on the podium by placing in the top 8 at Wells Fargo Arena.” 

Bradyen Maeder punched his ticket for his third trip to the state tournament with a thrilling last second takedown to defeat state ranked Davis Bramman of Riverside by a score of 4-2 in the 113 pound semi-finals. Maeder lost by fall in the finals to Brock Shaha of Mt. Ayr.

“Brayden had to earn his trip to state this year with three wrestlers in the bracket that have earned state medals in prior years. Maeder’s win over Bramman avenged a loss from earlier in the season and to top it off it was his 150th high school win,” Konence said. “Maeder now has the second most wins in school history, passing his dad Derek Maeder and only trailing Matt Haley that ended his career with 157 wins. Brayden takes a 36-8 record into the state tournament.”

Junior Ian Forsythe came into the district tournament as the fourth seed, but upset the No. 1 seed in the semi-finals to make the final. Forsythe lost by a 7-2 decision in the finals, earning his first trip to state.

“Ian has had a great season. Ian is a tough kid to wrestle, he is extremely strong for a 165 pound wrestler and is an unorthodox wrestler that frustrates most of his opponents,” Konence said. “Ian takes a 35-11 record into the state tournament.”

Senior Ely Rodriguez and junior Beau Johnston finished in third place at 150 and 175 pounds respectively, just missing a trip to the state tournament. Senior Dillon Inman and sophomore Gavin Wetzel both finished in fourth place at districts. Freshmen Brody Crozier and Carson Cooper, sophomores Brody Sparks and Ashton Boswell, and junior Sawyer Wilkinson also participated in the district tournament but never finished in the top 4 of their respective weight classes.

“I am very proud of this entire team this year. We wrestled 12 kids on varsity all season long and ended the season with a 16-11 dual meet record. Both freshman ended the season with a winning record on varsity which is impressive. Sparks and Boswell greatly improved from last year and will continue to get better. Sawyer ended the year with 23-18 record, which is greatly improved from a year ago,” Konence said. “We are lucky to have such a great group of kids to work with, it’s been a pleasure to coach them this year."

Haffner, Forsythe and Maeder wrestle at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, with the Class 1-A session starting at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 14.

Results for the three state qualifiers are:

• Semifinal — Brayden Maeder (Southwest Valley) 36-8 won by 4-2 decision over Davis Bramman (Riverside, Oakland) 38-3; first place match — Brock Shaha (Mount Ayr) 36-4 won by fall over Maeder in 3:20

• Quarterfinal — Ian Forsythe (Southwest Valley) 35-11 won by fall over Jackson Pfrang (AC/GC) 30-20 in 4:16; semifinal —Forsythe won by 7-5 decision over Blake Akers (AHSTW); first place match — A.C. Roller (Riverside, Oakland) 25-10 won by 7-2 decision over Forsythe

• Semifinal — Tate Haffner (Southwest Valley) 41-4 won by fall over Jackson Allen (Riverside, Oakland) 7-21 in 1:03; first place match — Haffner won by fall over Michael Fuller (AC/GC) 38-13 in 1:40)

​McCoy, Maeder gain state experience

Junior Maddie McCoy and sophomore Kenzie Maeder traveled Feb. 1-2 to Coralville to participate in the Iowa Girls High School State Wrestling Tournament.

“McCoy and Maeder wrestled in 32 girl brackets, against the best competition in the state,” head coach Derek Maeder said. “Girls wrestling in Iowa only consists of one class, unlike all other sports that have classes based on school sizes.”

The tournament format is a double elimination tournament, with only the top 8 making the podium on the second night. McCoy posted a 1-2 record in the tournament and Maeder went 0-2. McCoy ended the season with a 28-5 record and Maeder ended the season with a 20-16 record.

“This was really a great experience for both girls. It was their first trip to state, so now we have to continue building on our success from this year to move to the next level next year,” Coach Maeder said. “I was surprised by the depth of this tournament, only having one class makes it harder for small schools, but when you look at the records of the girls in these brackets its crazy, in some cases the third and fourth seeded girls were unbeaten going into the tournament. Maddie and Kenzie both enjoyed the experience while getting use to the bigger tournament environment, gaining that experience will help going into next year. Both girls wrestled hard in their matches and gave it their all, but weren’t able to reach the podium. I couldn’t be more proud of them for the season they had.”

Coach Maeder said the girls’ success has come from the commitment and work they have put into wrestling, beginning at an early age.

‘We’ve already talked to the girls about offseason training, whether it be doing freestyle, attending camps and clinics, going to a club or lifting weights, any or all of those things will help greatly going into next season,” Maeder said. “We also hope that the success that our SWV girl wrestlers had this year will encourage more SWV youth and high school girls to come out for wrestling. Maddie and Kenzie both started wrestling in eighth grade, and in two to three years they were among the top 32 in the state in their respective weight classes. Wrestling is a very rewarding sport and teaches you how to handle a lot of tough situations that you will be faced with in everyday life. I encourage any young girl wrestler interested in trying it, come to an open mat during the offseason and try it. We’ve grown the numbers in our youth program over the last year, so the future for SWV girls wrestling is bright.”

Results from the state tournament include:

110 — Championship round 1, Ashlyn Leslie (Nevada) 36-11 won by fall over Maddie McCoy (Southwest Valley) 28-5 in 3:13; consolation round 1, McCoy won by fall over Rylee Rice (WACO, Wayland) in 2:38; consolation round 1, Lacey Reed (Southern Tier ) 31-6 won by fall over McCoy in 1:15

145 — Championship round 1, Phoenix Gryp (Williamsburg) 44-4 won by fall over Kenzie Maeder (Southwest Valley) 20-16 in 1:10; consolation round 1, Peyten Van Dyke (Iowa City, West) 30-13 won by fall over Maeder in 4:49

Six awarded
​Foundation Grants

The Adams Community Foundation Grants were presented at the Jan. 27 Annual Adams Community Chamber Banquet. Nancy Turner presented the grants.

“The Adams Community Foundation began in 1985 with the first grants awarded in 1986,” Turner said. “Since that time, we have been able to award almost $1.9 million. We also have over $1.2 million in our endowment fund which provides perpetual income for grant giving.  The Foundation is fortunate to be a part of the Endow Iowa program which awards non-gaming counties a portion of gaming revenues each year to assist in grant-giving and endowment building.  Because of Endow Iowa, we have been able to make a much larger financial impact in our community.  Gifts to our endowment fund reward local donors as well by providing an Iowa tax credit for donations.” 

Twelves applications were received by the Jan. 5 deadline for a total asking of over $126,000.  

“It is always a hard decision on what to fund, especially when there are so many good and, in some cases, necessary projects,” Turner said. “In this grant cycle, we awarded six grants.”

The next grant cycle will be in July with a grant deadline of noon June 7. For more information, visit www.adamscountyiowa.com/community/adams-community-foundation

Zoning approves energy chapter

​A group of local residents left the Jan. 17 Adams County Zoning Commission meeting disappointed following a decision to move ahead with a Renewable Energy Chapter instead of seeking more information from the public.

Adams County Priceless Land Coalition members have been working for months to limit the number of new wind turbines in the county and preserve agricultural land. 

The Zoning Commission has allowed public comment, typically limited to three minutes, at its workshops but has not held a question and answer session where individuals can receive direct answers from the commission. Coalition members feel their voices about adding a Renewable Energy Chapter to a 1966 Comprehensive Plan, the hiring of Confluence for the plan instead of the Southern Iowa Council of Governments, setback distances, conserving agricultural land, and other concerns are being ignored.

Chris Shires of Confluence presented phase two draft plan of the county’s Renewable Energy Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan at the Jan. 17 meeting, which was rescheduled from Jan. 8 due to inclement weather. He said the plan is a long-range guide to help the county make decisions about land use zoning and development.

“It is a guide, it is not a law,” Shires said. “It’s a policy statement, not a regulation.”

Shires said the plan focuses on development for the next 20 to 40 years but should be reviewed and updated every five to 10 years to meet changing conditions.

“It’s a living document,” Shires said. “It changes over time.”

The plan examines the county’s demographics, population, resources, transportation, and other issues to reach determine its long-range goals, policies and actions, Shires said, but mapping to determine the county’s zoning is the No. 1 issue.

As part of the process, Shires shared a map from the Adams County assessor’s office identifying the county’s “112 existing wind turbine locations” and the Southwest Solar Farm and said his recommendation to the Zoning Commission was to balance the zoning rights between participants and non-participants. He said the county can allow conditional use permits for solar and wind farms through a zoning board of adjustment similar to the Zoning Commission or allow solar and wind farms only in specific zoning districts. 

Shires also presented the results of an online wind and solar energy survey conducted followed the Dec. 11 Zoning Commission meeting. The survey included concerns from the public over setbacks, a desire to preserve agricultural land, environmental and historical concerns, wind turbine height limits, decommissioning old wind turbines or solar panels, industrial scatter, and others.

Six stakeholder interviews were also conducted. Conference calls were held with Jason McManis, Adams County Farm Bureau president and member of the Adams County Zoning Commission; Ray Gaesser, board member of Solutions from the Land; Jeanne Jackson, member of Adams County Priceless Land Coalition; Steve Morris, Kate Millar, and Merlin Bartz, Invenergy; Jamie McManis, Liberty Realty; and Scott Akin, Adams County supervisor and vice president of the Adams Community Economic Development Corporation.

Stakeholders’ comments on setbacks for wind farms were varied. One said setbacks need to increase to 2,250 or 3,280 feet. Another said the setback for cities should be one mile vs. two miles. Another said “Increasing setbacks will limit or prevent property owners from having wind towers – keep at 1200 feet or 1500 feet from existing homes.”

Shires wrapped up his presentation by recommending the county adopt a “robust zoning code” to appropriately regulate utility scale solar and wind; restrict wind and solar from sensitive areas; create a decommissioning plan; screen wind and solar farms from neighboring properties; and include regulations for Battery Energy Storage Systems.

The Zoning Commission heard comments from about a dozen individuals. Limited to three-minutes each, the speakers shared their concerns and opposition to more wind turbines in Adams County. The concerns ranged from the loss of property rights to inadequate wind turbine setbacks to establishing a two-year moratorium on new turbines but several said they would like to hear more public comments through additional surveys.

One individual said the public’s greatest concern is he and many others who oppose more wind turbines in the county are being ignored.

“The bottom line is we don’t feel like we’re being heard,” he said. “We’re not getting that from the Board of Supervisors. … The vast majority of the people in the county don’t want them [wind turbines] near their homes. … We want to stay an ag community, that’s our bread and butter. … Hope you guys will listen to what people say and not do what the board wants.”

Shires spoke about an additional survey, saying a more specific statistically valid sample survey could be provide greater details of what people want in setback distances, noise protection, and other concerns. He said such a survey would be more accurate than an online survey but it would be more expensive and is not included in Confluence’s current project.

Instead of making a motion to conduct another survey, the Zoning Commission approved the draft of Renewable Energy Chapter.

“I just don’t feel like we’re getting anywhere,” Zoning Commission member Tony Mullen said.

Mullen made a motion to move forward with the plan and work out the specifics as needed. Lynn Brandt seconded the motion.

With approval of the Renewable Energy Chapter, the Zoning Commission will meet at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 19 at the Corning Community Center for a look at the final plan and adoption of the plan.

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Submitted photo — Southwest Valley’s Johnathan Weatherby wrestles an opponent in last year’s John J. Harris Wrestling Tournament in Corning. He and his fellow Timberwolves will compete Jan. 19-20 in the 69th Annual John J. Harris Wrestling Tournament.

John J. Harris tourney begins Jan. 19

The John J. Harris Wrestling Tournament will be held Jan. 19-20 at Southwest Valley High School Campus located in Corning. 

The tournament began in 1955 making this year’s event the 69th year. Twenty-eight teams will travel to Corning for the event.

According to the most recent rankings released by IAWrestle this year’s competition will feature 35  ranked grapplers. Thirteen of the 14 weight classes will have a ranked wrestler, with multiple weights featuring two or more ranked wrestlers.

“None of the teams competing are ranked but we do have some great teams competing,” SWV athletic director Allen Naugle said. “Look for class 2A perennial power Creston to vie for one of the top spots as well as Atlantic, Winterset, Nodaway Valley, Riverside and Missouri Valley. Overall it will be an extremely competitive and close team race!”

Competing team include AC/GC, Atlantic, Bedford, CAM, Centerville, Central Decatur, Clarinda, Clarke, Creston, Denison-Schleswig, Earlham, East Mills, Griswold, Lenox, Missouri Valley Mt. Ayr, MVAOCOU, Panorama, Red Oak, Riverside, Shenandoah, Southwest Iowa, SWV, Tri Center, Washington, Wayne, and Winterset.

Time schedule: The tournament will be a double elimination tournament. Pigtail matches are just that and do not guarantee a wrestler more than one match. Two mats will be placed in the Activity Center gym and two mats will be placed in the high school gym. The high school gym will also be the site of weigh-ins on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning.

The Friday, Jan. 19, schedule begins at 2 p.m. with weigh-ins in the high school gym followed by a coaches meeting at 3 p.m. in the music room in the Activity Center. All wrestlers and managers should go to the Activity Center gym to be marked for admission. The cheerleaders should report to the band room in the Activity Center. Competition will begin at 4 p.m. with the National Anthem and pigtails and championship first-round matches from 4 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Dinner break will be from 6:45 p.m. to 7 p.m. with quarterfinals and first-round consolidation matches from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wrestlers in weight classes 106-144 will compete in the high school gym and classes 150-285 in the Activity Center.

The Saturday, Jan. 20, schedule begins at 9 a.m. with weigh-ins in the high school gym followed by a coaches meeting in the music room in the Activity Center. Second round consolation takes place from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. with weight classes 106-144 in the high school gym 150-285 classes in the Activity Center. Semifinals and third round consolation will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. with the semifinals in the Activity Center and consolation in the high school gym. A break will be held at 1:30 p.m. followed by the National Anthem at 1:45 p.m. in the Activity Center. Consolation semifinals for all weights will be held from 1:45 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Activity Center.
Fifth and sixth place matches will be held from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Activity Center followed by 
championship and third/fourth place matches from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Activity Center.

“All times are approximate,” Naugle said. “We will run ahead of schedule when possible.”

Livestreams will take place with Friday’s link at https://www.fullerdigital.net/southwest-valley and Saturday’s at https://www.youtube.com/live/LONMqWZbsic?feature=shared.

“We will be planning on livestreaming the two mats in the Activity Center both days,” Naugle said. “Unfortunately we do not have the capability this year to livestream the high school gym also this year.”

Admission to the John J. Harris Wrestling Tournament are $5 for both adults and students each day. Prices are good all day. IHSAA/IGHSAU administrator passes will be the only passes accepted.

“We greatly appreciate your continued support and coverage of Southwest Valley athletics,” Naugle said. “We are very excited about hosting such a great event again this year. We have some of the top wrestlers in Southwest Iowa in attendance and we expect this tournament to continue to be a great experience for everyone in attendance.

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Chamber announces
​award nominees

The Adams Community Chamber of Commerce Board has announced its nominees for its annual Chamber Awards Banquet, which will be held Jan. 27 at the Prescott Eagles Nest.

“The Adams Community Chamber of Commerce Board asked for nominations from the public to honor businesses, organizations, and leaders in the community for consideration of this year’s annual Chamber Awards, and our community delivered so many deserving nominees,” Chamber Board member Jena James said. “To honor these dedicated members of our community, Adams Community Chamber hosted a nominee recognition night on Friday, Jan. 5, 2024. This event was open to the public as well. Chamber member Happy Hollow Country Club served a delicious buffet dinner following the program. Thank you to all who submitted nominations, our nominees, and everyone who attended our recognition night to show support.”

Those recognized as nominees for this year's awards were: 

Best Agriculturalist of the Year: Steve Sonntag, Southwest Valley School District; Blake Anderson, Southwest Valley School District; Ryan Shuey, Southern Hills Vet Clinic; Randy and Holly Cooper, Adams County Fair; and Michael Hogan, Hogan Farms.

Business/Organization of the Year Nominations: Adams Community Foundation, Adams County Extension, Corning Rotary, Fire and Salt Co., Happy Hollow Country Club, Miltner Insurance Agency, Real Deals, Southwest Iowa REC Operation Round Up, TS Bank, and Vogel and Thomas Mercantile.

Entrepreneur of the Year Award Nominees: Cindy Roberts of Real Deals, Todd and Kristi Drake of Fire and Salt Co., and Travis Troutwine of Damewood Auto.

John McMahon Volunteer of the Year Nominees: Steve Gruba, De Heaton, Kelly Herring, Tysen Christensen, Cena Danielson, Linda Shearer, Fred Shearer, Wendy Edwards, Blake Anderson, and Ashley Templeton.

Joe Cook Lifetime Support Award Nominees: Nancy Carmichael, Linda Shearer, Fred Shearer, Jerry Peckham, and Nancy Turner.

Tickets for the Chamber Banquet are now available at the Chamber at 710 Davis Ave. in Corning.

Holiday Light winners announced

The Adams County Holiday Light Contest sponsored by the Adams County Commission on Sustainability brought out festive lights despite the lack of snow this year.

“There were a total of 10 participants who each had fantastic holiday displays this season for the 8th Annual Holiday Light Contest,” Adams Community Chamber of Commerce director Marti Gebbie said. “One community favorite, and the first place winner, were Greg and Cindy Sackett who received $125 in Chamber Bucks.”

Chamber Board member Jamie McManis presented the award Dec. 23 to the Sacketts during a Chamber Live interview. Cindy said it was a team effort with the help of family and friends and later posting she believed each person donates 150 hours of work, which by Chamber calculations totals the equivalent of a full-time employee for a year. 

The second place winner is Cliff Baldwin who received $100 in Chamber Bucks. Third place winners are Kolby and Becky Bissell who won $75 in Chamber Bucks. All participants received Chamber Bucks this year for a total of $500 in Chamber Bucks awarded to the Holiday Light contestants.

For a full list of participants and photos,  visit the Chamber Facebook page Adams Community Chamber of Commerce.

Shop with a Cop

Lake Icaria to host
​annual First Day Hike

A First Day Hike will take place at Lake Icaria Recreation Area on Jan. 1.

The guided hike will be led by Michelle Wilson, executive director of Southern Iowa Resource Conservation and Development. The guided hike will begin at 1 pm.

“Parks in Iowa have been hosting First Day Hikes on Jan. 1 for years,” Wilson said. “As a hiker who enjoys the Lake Icaria trails year-round, I’m excited to partner with the Lake Icaria staff again this year to bring more people to the trails for the new year. Walking the trails is an ideal way to start the new year.”

Hikers will meet on Jan. 1 at the nature trail near the beach at Lake Icaria for this event. Participants are encouraged to wear warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes/boots. The beach to dam nature trail is 1.72 miles round-trip.

 “The park is a beautiful outdoor setting where hikers can experience the woodlands and all of the birds and wildlife that live here as well as wonderful views of the lake,” Travis Paul, Adams County Conservation Board director, said.

Lake Icaria is located four miles north of Corning. Lake Icaria offers six miles of walking and hiking trails throughout the park where park visitors can experience the outdoors. Lake Icaria is managed by the Adams County Conservation Board.

An outdoor enthusiast, Wilson leads guided hikes and backpacking trips throughout the year on Iowa trails.

 “The lake is such a gem. A lot of people know about the lake for camping and boating or fishing,” Wilson said. “Icaria’s trails are some of my favorites in Southwest Iowa.”

For more information, contact Wilson at [email protected] or 641-782-4033 or at 641-202-6821

DON GROVES/Free Press — Chris Shires, a spokesman with the planning and urban design firm Confluence, speaks about the renewable energy chapter of Adams County’s comprehensive plan.

Wind energy survey
​to go online

A survey to help Adams County Zoning Commission create a renewable energy chapter of the county’s updated comprehensive plan will now be available online for public comment.

The survey was made available to about 60 people attending the Dec. 11 Zoning Commission public input meeting at the Corning Community Center. Chris Shires of Confluence, a “landscape architecture, planning and urban design” firm, spoke about the comprehensive plan, its process, and renewable energy in general before asking the audience to share its opinions with the survey.

The survey includes six questions about favorite places in Adams County, concerns about wind and solar farms, regulations on wind and solar farms, and which stakeholders should be included in the renewable energy plan. The audience had the opportunity to complete the survey electronically with a QR code at the meeting or hand in a paper survey at the end of the meeting.

Shires asked the audience to share their favorite place in Adams County, to which some replied “my farm, my fields, my open spaces” while others wrote their answers down on the survey or use the provided QR code. Some audience members asked if they could complete the survey later but Shires said is should be completed at the meeting.

“If you want to do it online, you have to do it here,” Shires said.

When asked why the survey was only being offered to those attending the meeting Shire said “that’s not the scope I was hired to do.”

Responses to the survey using the QR code, which was updated on a screen as responses were entered, was available for the audience to watch but Shires and the Zoning Commission received far more comments from the audience as individuals took turns sharing their concerns.

Those concerns, particularly those dealing with wind farms, have been shared with the Zoning Commission and Adams County Board of Supervisors for months. Concerns about the loss of farmland and property value, environmental concerns,  encroachment on non-participants, tower height, lighting, and other issues topped the public input section.

“When’s the time to say that it’s enough?” one audience member asked about the more than 120 wind turbines already in Adams County.

Decommissioning or the removal of older wind turbines was one concern. Shires said ensuring that is done properly is up to the individual property owners.”

“Individually people need to have an attorney when they sign a lease,” Shires said.

While the survey included both solar and wind, regulations and concerns about solar were minimal compared to wind. The main discussion focused on wind turbines because, as one audience member said, “that’s what we’re working on.”

Shires wrapped up the public input section of the meeting by with the final question on the survey: “Who are the stakeholders we should interview for the Renewable Energy Chapter?” One person said stakeholders should be individual landowners.

“They’re the voters,” he said. “Put it up to a vote.”

Another person asked Shires if he had ever worked for a county that brought wind energy before voters as a ballot initiative but Shires said he had never done so.

As the Zoning Commission began discussing which stakeholders to include, an audience member asked if a steering committee of local residents had ever been included in the planning process. Shires said that has been common with other counties.

“We’ve done it both ways,” he said.

The audience asked if the survey could be made available for the general public to complete. Shires said he could create a Survey Monkey and include it online. The Zoning Commission voted to make the survey available on the county website and share the results at the Jan. 8 draft plan meeting.

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Christmas spirit
​in full swing

From community Christmas sing-alongs to a visit to Santa’s Workshop the holiday season is in full swing with a variety of events in the Adams Community.

The Flyovers (an a cappella group) will perform a Christmas concert at 7 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Corning Opera House. Purchase tickets at corningoperahouse.com or call De Heaton at 641-418-8037 for more information.

Santa’s mailbox is open in Corning. Children can drop their letters to Santa off at the mailbox in Central Park at Santa’s Workshop. Santa will be at the Santa Workshop from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 9.

The Corning Opera House, Lone Arranger, and Sweet Desires Bakery will host their annual gingerbread house decorating at 1:30 p.m. Dec. 9. At the Opera House. The event is free to attend for children up to fifth grade who have an adult present. There is limited space.
A community Christmas sing-along will be held at 2 p.m. Dec. 10 at Redeemer Lutheran Church at 800 17th St. in Corning. Song requests will be taken. Cookies and fellowship will follow the sing-along.

The deadline to enter the Adams County Holiday Light Contest is Dec. 15. The contest is free to enter by contacting Marti Gebbie at the Adams Community Chamber office at 641-322-3243, by email at [email protected], or by message Facebook at Adamscommunitychamberofcommerce.

Judging will take place the weekend of Dec. 16. Winners will be announced during a 9:30 a.m. Dec. 22 Chamber Live. Five-hundred dollars in Chamber Bucks will be awarded to Holiday Light Contest winners. This year’s sponsor is the Adams County Commission on Sustainability.
Christmas in Prescott activities will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Dec. 16 with Santa, carriage rides, crafts, brownie decorating, drinks, and other activities at the Prescott Eagles Nest in the old preschool room

Election audit
​verifies ballots

Adams County Auditor Becky Bissell conducted a successful post-election audit of the November city-school election on Nov. 15.

Ballots in the Adams 1 precinct were hand-counted by election officials to ensure they matched the totals reported by the ballot tabulator.

The precinct was randomly selected by the Secretary of State following Election Day. The City of Corning’s mayoral race was audited. The results matched 100 percent. 

Adams County auditor Becky Bissell said that the audit is proof of the reliability of the election system in Iowa. 

“This is one of numerous safeguards to the system,” she said, “but it is especially significant because it is proof after the fact. It shows that the system worked the way it was supposed to.”

“I’d like to thank the county auditors and the election officials and poll workers across the state for their hard work this year,” Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate said. “We conducted another fair, secure election in Iowa, and these hand-count audits are one more way we ensure the integrity of the vote.”

Every ballot tabulator in Iowa undergoes a public pre-election test to ensure it will count votes accurately on Election Day. Post-election audits are mandatory in all 99 counties following each election. For the city-school election, one randomly chosen precinct in each county is required to conduct a post-election audit to verify the machine count. 

For more information about election security in Iowa, visit the Secretary of State’s website at sos.iowa.gov. Information about the voting process is available at VoterReady.Iowa.gov.

DEBORAH THORNTON/Free Press — More than 125 volunteer hours have gone into decorating 17 full-size Christmas trees for the Corning Opera House’s Festival of Trees, which will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 25.

​‘Nursery Rhymes
turn Christmas’
Santa Claus is coming to town to check his list and help the Adams Community celebrate the holidays.

Santa will be at the Santa House in Corning’s Central Park from 4:30 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. Nov. 25 and from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 2 and Dec. 9.

Following his Nov. 25 stop at the Santa House, Santa will join the Holiday Lighted Christmas Parade at 6 p.m. on Davis Avenue. This year’s theme is “Nursery Rhymes turn Christmas.”

Holiday shoppers can visit a gift-wrapping station from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 25 at the Lauvstad Visitor Center at 710 Davis Ave. Main Street shoppers can have their gifts wrapped and ready to put under their Christmas tree. 

The Corning Opera House will hold an open house for its Festival of Trees from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 25. More than 125 volunteer hours went into setting up 17 full-size trees decorated by businesses, organizations, and individuals. Among those helping decorate the trees are Jill Shuler, Carol Smart, Payton Shuler, Addison Shuler, Deanna Anderson, Emily Anderson, Delores Ramsey, Nancy Carmichael, Pat Getter, Gayle Anstey, Norma Fast, Amanda Helvie, Adams County 4-H, Gals of the Gospel, FCCLA, FFA, Corning Elementary School second-grade students, Faithful Community Church, Balance4Ward, State Bank of Brooks, Adams County Courthouse, POET.

After the Nov. 25 Christmas parade, children can watch the “Trolls Band Together” movie at the Corning American Theater and adults can attend a 1980s party at the Floating Vine

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Ceremony honors veterans

Southwest Valley High School in Corning and Villisca Middle School honored local veterans Nov. 10 with a Veterans Day ceremony at the two schools.

Following the posting of the colors by Boy Scout Troop 124 member Derek Morales in Corning, the National Anthem by senor choir member Emma DeVore, Pledge of Allegiance led by SWV National Honor Society member Carly Green, prayer by Corning United Methodist Church Pastor LeAnn Robine, and the Marches of the Armed Forces by the SWV Band, Quilts of Valor were presented to Dick Newsome, Gerald Nelson, Leeman Nelson, and Joe Vanik.

SWV National Honor Society member Emma Cooper introduced speaker Rich Miller after which the SWV Choir presented “The Battel Hymn of the Republic.” Second-grader Oliver Glor, fifth-grader Abigail Tye, and 12th-grader Charlee Larsen presented thank-you notes to veterans.

The ceremony ended with “God Bless the USA” by the SWV Choir, a moment of silence led by National Honor Society member Owen Paul, “Taps” bye SWV Band member John Jones, and the retiring of the colors by Derek Morales.

Quilts of Valor
Local Quilts of Valor members honored four veterans at the SWV High School ceremony with quilts — Dick Newsome, Gerald Nelson, Leeman Nelson, and Joe Vanik.

Dick Newsome served in the United States Air Force from Sept. 1, 1959, to May 31, 1963. His military occupation specialty code was signal intelligence. He was stationed at Offutt Air Force Base, SAC Headquarters in Bellevue, Neb. He worked in signal intelligence and held a top-secret cryptographic clearance. He also worked in the Strategic Air Command Underground Complex and at classified communication sites overseas. Ham radio gave him the opportunity to be trained while in the U.S. Air Force. His ending rank was airmen first class E4. His quilt was pieced by Kathy Boswell and machine quilted by Becky Rodgers.

Gerald Nelson served in the U.S. Army from June 1978 to June 1982. He received training and was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.; Fort Bragg, N.C.; Fort Wainwright, Alaska; Camp Hovey, Republic of Korea; Fort Benning, Ga.; and Camp McCall, N.C. While in North Carolina he was with the JFK IMA Special Forces training, 82nd Air Born Infantry. In Alaska he received winter warfare instruction. In Korea he was he said he was a jack-of-all trades. He was a telecommunications specialist, IMA weapons specialist, a member of Squad No. 1, 82nd Call out, of which there were only 11 members. He also received desert training at White Sands Missile Range. His civilian career has been working at the Clarinda Correctional Facility as a security guard and on Thursdays he teaches landscape conservation and beekeeping to the inmates. His quilt was pieced by Virginia Perrin and machine quilted by Val Russell. 

Leeman Nelson served on the Army National Guard from March 2005 to March 2012. He received basic and advanced individual training at Fort Benning, Ga. His MOS was 11 Bravo. He toured Afghanistan from 2012 to 2011 serving company intelligence, biometrics, and patrol. His mission was at the Pakistan border checkpoint. He was a radio telecommunication operator and he went to homes with officers to interview elders in the community. His ending rank was E4. His civilian career has been shift captain at the Clarinda Correctional Facility. His quit was pieced by Virginia Perrin and machine quilted by Jackie Orton.

Joe Vanik served in the U.S. Air Force from September 1981 to July 1992 during Desert Storm. His training was at Shephard AFB as a crew chief and ended his career as a crash recovery technician. He was stationed at Mountain Home AFB in Idaho, Zwieburcken Air Base in Germany, Pease AFB in New Hampshire, and Cannon AFB in New Mexico. His ending rank was staff sergeant E5. His quilt was pieced together by Diane Walter and quilted by Riina Thompson.

Meal, programs
​to honor veterans

The Adams Community will honor its veterans on Nov. 10 this Veterans Day with breakfast and programs at Southwest Valley High School in Corning and Villisca Middle School.

The Veterans Day breakfast, sponsored by Hy-Vee and the Corning Rotary Club, will be held from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Nov. 10 at the Corning Community Center at 601 Sixth St.

SWV High School will honor veterans with its band and choir at 9 a.m. Nov. 10 at the SWV High School Activity Center in Corning. Villisca’s program will be held at 9 a.m. in the middle school gym.

On Nov. 11, Williamson American Legion Post 719 will hold a craft and vendor fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1120 Sycamore Ave. in Prescott.

Breakfast will include biscuits and gravy or cinnamon roll. Lunch will include chili or homemade chicken noodle soup. Freewill donations will be accepted.

Proceeds will be used to help the Iowa Auxiliary Junior Camp. For more information, call 641-344-5895.

School candidates tout strengths

Editor’s note: Corning Community School District’s three board of education candidates — Stephanie Hodapp, Trent M. Roberts, and write-in Todd James — were asked to tell voters about themselves, their qualifications, district goals, and other information in a questionnaire conducted by the school for the Nov. 7 election. The following are the candidates’ submissions.

Stephanie Hodapp
My name is Stephanie Hodapp, I am married to Jeremy and we have three children Adeline (8), Blaine (6), and Spencer (2). We moved back to Corning in 2017 when Blaine was born to raise our children in a small town that we knew and loved. I am a graduate of Corning High School; I did not grow up in Corning but was able to attend here from my sophomore-senior years. I grew to love this community because of the people and how much they genuinely care for one another. I began my college adventure at DMACC for dental assisting, worked in the field for a few years and then returned to school in Fort Dodge at Iowa Central Community College to become a dental hygienist. I currently serve our local community for dental hygiene care through Family Dental Center.

I have a passion for youth athletic activities and especially enjoy volunteering at home track and cross country meets. I coached SWV track for three years recently and during this time I was able to work with a lot of our youth and encourage them to grow in areas of mental and physical endurance. Being involved with the school is a big part of why I want to be on the school board. I am passionate about helping our district grow and become the best district it can be, ensuring our community provides children with a great education and facilities that inspire our children to succeed in life. Small rural communities are very special and produce generations of hope for our communities' future, I recall firsthand the impacts having a supportive community had in shaping critical adolescent years of my life and want all children to experience a similar supportive community.

I am a hardworking and reliable individual that goes the extra mile to do what it takes to get the things done. My goal for the district would be to help showcase that we have a wonderful school with exceptional educators and are surrounded by a great community of people, ultimately hoping to attract more people to join our district. 

Trent Roberts
Tell us about yourself, your family, your occupation, and educational background.
I was born and raised in the town of Corning. I had the privilege of growing up on a farm and attending Corning Community Schools. The school has been a staple for myself, three siblings and many cousins. I’m very proud to share that my mother, Deb Roberts, had the opportunity to teach at Corning High School. For 17 years she taught upper level math and sciences. Following high school I continued my education and received a Bachelor of Science degree from Northwest Missouri State University. After college I pursued a career in various aspects of construction. Today I’m a project superintendent for a general contracting firm. I also participate in our family farm enterprise. My amazing wife, Stephanie, and I have two kids that are currently attending Corning Elementary. They are just at the beginning of their journeys.

Please list any previous service on a school board or school committee.
With my construction background and from school representatives I was honored to join as a member of the Corning Community School Design Team. Over the past few months we have been working diligently to plan for the build of a new elementary school and ball field upgrades. This achievement will have a major impact on the future of our district's educational opportunities.
​
Why are you running for the School Board?
The future of our district is very important to me. This school system provided me with amazing opportunities. Teachers and staff at Corning Schools were so inspiring decades ago during my tenure and STILL are! They are dedicated, devoted, and passionate about our children. I’m also regularly humbled by the pillar families throughout our community that have continued generation after generation to support our town and school systems. I’m excited about the opportunity to be a school board member giving back to the community that’s been such an important part of my family. I want to do everything I can to make our district a wonderful opportunity for those to come.

What qualifications do you believe make you a viable candidate?
My role as a leader on the job site provides me with a useful background. Being the leader on my team requires the ability to strategically plan how processes and changes I make set the roadmap for what we want to achieve in the future. This is just like working with a school board team to build a strong educational future for our district. As a member of the school board, I would provide fair and rational problem solving to upcoming challenges. I also value integrity and compassion while appreciating the necessity to make tough decisions.

Do you have any specific goals for the district? If so, what are they?
The people of our district stand strong to support our schools. With the school improvements set to take place, I want to continue pressing forward to keep the district financially sound with the best education experience possible. Our wonderful school system will add to the greatness our community offers, opening the door for new faces that may choose to pursue their education here.

Have you been active in other community projects? If yes, please describe.
I’m a member of the Corning Youth Club. We provide opportunities to local youth to participate in various athletic programs. I’m a co-head of the Little League baseball program and help organize the season. Through CYC I coach baseball teams as well as the flag football team. I also coach a division in the youth Scramblers wrestling program. The youth in our community inspire me every day. I’m excited about the potential our district has and am ready to help continue to make our schools great. 

Todd James
My name is Todd James and live just outside of Corning with my two sons. Ethan is a senior and Tyler is a freshman. I’m involved in a family farming operation alongside having my own trucking business. I help my girlfriend Kim with her cupcake empire. We also keep trying to get our pumpkin patch going. I’m a 1997 graduate of the Corning district and also a graduate of Iowa Western Community College in 1999. 

I am currently on the SWV FFA Advisory committee. 

I’m running as a write-in candidate for school board to help the district move our kids down the path of success. Although the administration is doing what they think is best, I believe it’s not being done adequately enough for the students or the teachers. I would like to be that voice that stands behind them.

I think that I’m qualified for this position being a business owner along with prior public service. I was involved on the finance and pastor parish committees at Corning United Methodist Church. I am currently the vice president of the Adam’s County Farm Bureau. I’m also the current treasurer for the Adam’s County Shriners. 

My goals at this time are to get the administration and teachers all working positively together for the kids’ future. I would also like to determine why there have been several students that are no longer being educated in the Corning district but have not moved away from the district.

I helped with start-up of the successful Watch Me Grow Program at POET. This program educates fourth- and fifth-graders about the benefits of ethanol. This is done by having fourth-graders plant their own corn in the spring. The students are updated about their corn regularly during the growing season. In the fall of their fifth-grade year, the students harvest their crop and sell it to POET. The kids love this program.

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By J. Wilson, author of Iowa Pints: A Guide to Iowa Breweries and Diary of a Part-time Monk

Christmas for Kids campaign begins
With the holidays approaching, Norvell's People in Need Coffee Group and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office have partnered with MATURA for years to take on Christmas for Kids project.

But with an estimate of more than 80 youngsters in need this Christmas, Christmas for Kids is seeking community help.

“These are times of family, fun and laughter, giving and receiving, kindness, and gifts. Christmas is a time for joy,” MATURA’s Adams County outreach director Teri O’Grady said. “Unfortunately, for some families, it can also be a time of struggle. At this time of year, some of our Adams County families have to choose between paying their bills, feeding their families, or buying toys for Christmas. MATURA would like to ensure that every child in Adams County has an enjoyable Christmas. we would like to do this by collecting money donations, gift cards, and new toys.”

O’Grady said typically most youngsters are sixth grade or younger, but this year MATURA also has several junior high and high school-aged as well.

“We are grateful for new toys, but we also really need money and gift card donations, as sometimes we do not have the right toy for the age or interest of the child,” O’Grady said. “For the kids that we do not have toys to match, MATURA uses the money donated to go and buy gifts for them.”

New unwrapped toys, checks, and gift cards (please do not leave cash) can be delivered to the Adams County Sheriff's Office any time of the day or week or dropped off at MATURA on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays during open hours. Checks and gift cards can also be mailed to MATURA, 1402 Hull St., Corning, IA 50841. Be sure to make checks out to MATURA, with “Christmas for Kids” in the memo field of the check.

“Please try to have donations in by Friday, Dec. 8, as we will need time to gather together gifts for each family before Christmas,” O’Grady said.

MATURA will still receive donations after the deadline, but the earlier gifts are gathered, the better, she said.

“And last, MATURA would like to thank the Norvell’s People in Need Coffee Group, Adams County Sheriff’s Department, and the generous people of Adams County for always making this wonderful time of year for these families,” O’Grady said. “May you all have happy holidays and a very merry Christmas.

Opposition strong at public hearing

The Adams County Zoning Commission heard about two hours of public comments at its Oct. 16 wind energy meeting at the Corning Community Center.

The majority of the comments came from those opposing the county’s proposed wind/solar energy ordinance, with many Adams County Priceless Land Coalition members sharing their concerns during three-minute speeches.

Many of those in opposition asked the Zoning Commission to see what nearby counties have done with wind energy projects.
​
Denise Kernen, the first to take the microphone, spoke about how neighboring counties have established moratoriums, turbine height caps, or larger setbacks than those proposed in Adams County and closed with the Bible verse “the love of money is the root of all evil.”

Katie James also asked the Zoning Commission to consider non-participants in creating the ordinance.

“Look around and see who’s sitting here — all of them love Adams County,” she said. “They’re not activists, they’re not radicals, they’re passionate about Adams County and their property.”

James said Coalition members and others have been asking for months for turbine caps, setbacks, and other concerns and have cited other neighboring counties that have passed moratoriums and created greater turbine setbacks.

“They’re not saying no, they’re just asking for stronger regulations,” she said.

Former Board of Supervisors member and road supervisor Carl McCarty said he has been “personally attacked” by those who oppose wind turbines. He said the county has 176 bridges, six of which are closed and 76 others are in need of repair and the county has many other needs and those needs can be met without increasing taxes on residents with wind turbines.

McCarty said he has not heard any solutions from those opposing Invenergy and wind turbines and sometime “personal sacrifices” are needed for the “greater good” of the county. He urged the Zoning Commission to pass the ordinance saying it was financially necessary for the county.

Chris Cooper, who owns an 80-acre farm south of Nodaway, said he was solicited by a wind energy company but feels there should be “consideration for those who live in rural Adams County.” He felt there should be greater setbacks for residential homes, especially considering there are greater setbacks for towns and lakes than for homes and asked for setbacks of 3,280 feet from a landowner’s property line.

Mary Bashor of Corning felt Invenergy had been given far much more time to speak than members of the public who were given a three-minute time limit at the meeting.
​
“Whatever happened to being a good neighbor?” she asked. “How many board members are putting up wind turbines or planning on putting up wind turbines?”

Rod Stewart said he took a $40,000 pay cut to move to Adams County to farm and enjoy “the quite rural area.” He said there’s “not enough there” in the proposed ordinance to protect non-participants.

“Who are you listening too? Is it the windmill companies?” he asked. “Why is a third of the county not being listened to?”

Stewart said if the county isn’t going to listen those in opposition to wind turbines “you’re going to start losing people like my wife and I.”
Shane Conley said he had moved from Nebraska to Adams County for the landscape and quite living but would not have bought his land if wind turbines had been present there.

Former Sixth District state Sen. Marlin Bartz spoke on behalf of Invenergy. He said more than 40 landowners have voluntarily signed up as wind turbine participants. He said the project will provide revenue for participants and the county, which can use the funds to improve roads, public safety, and other needs.

Carmen Dahl of Corning said 944 residents have come out against the proposed ordinance and asked why the signatures have been ignored by the Board of Supervisors.

Jeanie Jackson said attorney David Levy represented wind turbine firms in Nebraska and asked why a wind turbine lobbyist was hired to write a county ordinance.

Mike Travis suggested the ordinance is being passed quickly so that wind turbine companies can benefit from a tax credit that is set to expire.

“Decisions made now will affect us for 30 to 40 years,” he said.

The next meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Nov. 13 at the Corning Community Center.

Energy ordinances released

The Adams County Zoning Commission has released proposed ordinances for wind and solar energy in advance of a public hearing on the ordinances scheduled for 5 p.m. Oct. 16 at the Corning Community Center.

The wind ordinance includes setbacks for non-participating and participating landowners. For non-participants, turbines should have setbacks of “(i) no less than three times the Total Height, or (ii) one thousand five hundred (1,500) feet, whichever is greater.” For participants, the setbacks should be “no less than one and one‑tenth times (1.1x) the Total Height.” Setbacks for property lines and public rights-of-way are 1.1 times the total height.

The setbacks, and how they affect non-participants, have been a major concern for Adams County Priceless Land Coalition members. Member Joel Bovaird said newer turbines are taller than earlier turbines, making them more encroaching.

“The taller 600-foot plus turbines that are being put up now impose a much larger imprint than their 400-foot predecessors,” Bovaird said. “This makes setbacks extremely important, especially for non-participating neighbors, ensuring safety and preventing noise and shadow flicker from hindering enjoyment of the rural lifestyle. The proposed draft ordinance made without public input, does not sufficiently address setbacks.”

But setbacks aren’t the Coalition’s only concern. Members say the group has been working with the Adams County Board of Supervisors, who began crafting a wind energy proposal in January, to come up with a compromise between non-participants and participants but have had no success. The Coalition had been seeking a moratorium on new wind turbines until further study could be conducted and feel more public input should be included in the ordinance draft.

“We have been attending Board of Supervisors meetings since January, bringing information to the Board and to the residents of Adams County,” Coalition member Jeanne Jackson said. “Now the Board of Supervisors has an attorney, who has worked for wind turbine companies, writing the ordinance for Adams County. Why is the Adams County Board of Supervisors not listening to the public and to our concerns like neighboring counties are listening to their citizens?”

Along with setbacks of about 5.5 times turbine height, a height cap of 600 feet, limiting the number of new turbines, and health and safety concerns, the Coalition has asked the Board of Supervisors and Zoning Commission to consider what neighboring counties have done with their wind energy ordinances. For example, Clarke, Montgomery, Union, and Taylor counties placed moratoriums on turbine projects until wind ordinances could be completed. Page County proposed a one-mile setback from property lines with a 300-foot turbine height limit. Ringgold County’s ordinance provides setbacks of 2,640 feet from property lines and a quantity cap of 20 turbines.
With these and other concerns, Coalition members said they and the public should have been given more opportunities to comment on the draft ordinance and the Zoning Commission —  not the Board of Supervisors — should have been crafting the ordinance from the beginning.

“Why did the Board of Supervisors, possessing the knowledge Adams County is a county with Zoning, spend over six months writing the ordinance; all the while excluding the Zoning Commission?” Coalition member Juli Cooper said. “Then the Board of Supervisors hired an outside lawyer to guide the Zoning Commission; but it was the hired lawyer who submitted the proposed ordinance that's on the county website? How did this happen? Why did the wind energy salesman get to pitch unquestioned by the public and now there's a proposed draft ordinance online, and the citizens of Adams County have not been given an opportunity to input? Public meetings with input, surveys, and questionnaires, should come BEFORE a draft."

CARIE MORALES/Free Press — David Wade Reese of Kirksville, Mo., and William Gregory Reese of Rosstal-Defersdorf, Germany, display their Quilts of Valor after receiving them Sept. 25.

Vets presented Quilts of Valor

Two more veterans were presented with Quilts of Valor Sept. 25.

David Wade Reese of Kirksville, Mo., and William Gregory Reese of Rosstal-Defersdorf, Germany, received the quilts, both made by Jodi Perrin and quilted by Becky Rodgers.

David Wade Reese served in the U.S. Army from 1986 to 1992. He traveled for basic training to Fort Jackson, S.C., and took advanced individual training at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. Reese completed Non-Commissioned Officers Academy at Fort Chaffee, Ark., then served in Desert Shield/Storm and was stationed at King Kalaad Military City, Saudi Arabia, from December 1990 to June 1991. His ending rank was Specialist 4 and his military occupation specialty was 76J-Medical Supple Specialist.

William Gregory Reese served in the U.S. Army from 1976 to 1991. He traveled to basic combat training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., then completed advance individual training at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Ind. He went to active duty and was stationed with the 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. He took a short break for schooling from 1983 to 1984 at Fort Gordon, Ga., and then moved on to the 2nd Armored Division at Fort Hood. From 1987 to 1989 he served with the 1st Armored Division in Illesheim, Germany, before returning to the states for duty from 1989 to 1991 with the 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo. His ending rank was sergeant and his MOS was 75B-Personal and Administration Functions.

“We thank you both for your service,” Quilts of Honor members said.  

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Zoning eyes turbine setbacks

More than 70 people attended an Adams County Zoning Commission meeting Sept. 19 at the Corning Community Center to learn more about a renewable energy ordinance and a setback demonstration from Invenergy.

While the meeting was open to the public, some of those attending think the agenda should have included public questions and comments and not been limited to comments from Invenergy and the Adams County Board of Supervisors.

The concern comes from the Adams County Priceless Land Coalition members who have been asking the Board of Supervisors for months for a moratorium on new wind farms in the county until a more comprehensive ordinance draft with public input can created. Coalition members handed out fliers about renewable energy ordinance considerations and similar ordinances and/or moratoriums from neighboring counties prior to the meeting.

Inside the Community Center, the Zoning Commission along with their attorney, David Levy of Omaha, were seated around a table in front of the audience. Zoning Commission chairman Rob Tucker opened the meeting by saying it was an “informational meeting” with “no public comments” but the next meeting will be open to public comments.

“You will have the opportunity to speak at later meetings,” Tucker said.

But some Priceless Land Coalition members and other landowners are concerned speaking at later meetings may be too late.

“With Invenergy given a platform to present its case, why wouldn’t the landowners be allowed to ask questions directly to the representative?” Carmen Dahl asked after the meeting.

Tucker said the renewable energy ordinance will include not just wind but solar as well and that the meeting was an opportunity to start a “clean slate” for the ordinance.

Following establishing the meeting format and a review of draft amendments to the ordinance, including a list of current wind farms in the county, wind energy assessments, road usage, and ordinances from other counties, Tucker said “You have a lot of information and will get a lot more tonight and a lot more at the public meeting.”

Levy followed with a bit about his background and his role with the Zoning Commission. He said he has been working on renewable energy throughout the Midwest for 15 to 20 years and that his duty is to help the Zoning Commission find a balance between those who want wind turbines on their property and those who don’t. He said the Adams County Board of Supervisors has put together a “rough draft” for the renewable energy ordinance after looking at similar ordinances from other cities and counties and told the Zoning Commission “you are the people the Board of Supervisors has chosen as their experts.”

“Our role is to develop a proposal to present to the supervisors,” Tucker said. “The supervisors will decide.”

But after the meeting Marvis Northup felt Levy and Invenergy will do little to protect the rights of landowners who have wind turbine concerns.

“I was disappointed when I learned that the lawyer the Board of Supervisors hired, David Levy, is a registered lobbyist in Nebraska for wind companies, according to his law firm’s website. As someone paid by wind companies, it’s hard to trust that he will stand for Adams County landowners,” Northup said. “It’s not the job of the lawyer to make sure the ordinance is favorable to wind farms. It’s their job to make sure laws are followed and documents are drawn up appropriately. The wind company has their own employees to present their side of the issue, as they did very clearly last night. However, between the lawyer and the wind farm staff person, the only side that was presented last night was the wind farms’ side with very little questioning from the zoning commissioners.”

The Board of Supervisors shared its expectations and comments at the meeting. Chairman Leland Shipley said the board “felt the current ordinance was totally inadequate” and that the county zoning and development plan were put in place in 1966
Invenergy representative Steve Morris was next on the agenda. Morris said the Chicago-based company has been working on wind projects in Iowa since 2003 and that it has paid out $2.4 million to landowners and $3 million in tax revenue. Morris also spoke about the development process of a wind project beginning with voluntary easements and continuing through environment studies, engineering work, due diligence for such things as FAA compliance, and permitting, speaking briefly about shadow flicker or the moving shadows created by the movement of the wind turbines’ blades.

Morris presented a slides to illustrate standard modeling for engineering setbacks such as infrastructure, environmental, commercial, and residential as well as turbine height, saying setbacks are typically 1.10 times the height a turbine. For example, a 497-foot tall turbine would require a setback of roughly 550 feet. Morris said for residential homes, Invenergy likes setbacks of about 1,200 feet or two times the height of the wind turbine and spoke about setbacks of 1,800 to 2,500 feet. At 2,500 feet, he said the setbacks “gut” Invenergy’s projects.

“When setbacks get too big the balance is out of whack … taking away rights of those who want to participate,” Levy stepped in to explain. 

Levy said he was in favor of varying turbine heights to offer various setback distances and asked at what setback height would a project fail. Morris shared a slide to illustrate that of 3,000 acres to build on 112 acres was available following setbacks and other concerns.

“At 2,500 feet the setbacks take those turbines out of the game,” Morris said.

Adams County assessor Ben Mullen also spoke briefly about the county’s tax revenue from existing wind turbines, which depends on how much each one had depreciated. He said it takes three half million dollar houses to equal the same tax revenue for a single wind turbine.

Tucker said the next meeting will be held at 5 p.m. Oct. 16 at the Community Center. Those who wish to speak will be asked to sign up before the meeting and will be limited to three minutes per speaker. Those who are unable to attend may send letters to the Board of Supervisors’ office. The Oct. 16 agenda is available at www.adamscounty.iowa.gov.

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Carson Car Show tops 100 vehicles

The Southwest Cruisers of Iowa hosted the Ninth Annual Johnny Carson Car Show on Sept. 16 in Corning.

“We had a great time with just over 100 registered vehicles,” Adams Community Chamber of Commerce director Marti Gebbie said.
Steve Breazeale was the Overall Best in Show winner. Other results are:

Car Classes
Stock
Class A 1954 and Older: First Jerry Milliken, second Marvin McGinnis
Class B 1955-1962: First Leonard Thompson, second Gary Nissen
Class C 1963-1969: First Tom Stessman, second Ken and Danielle Anderson
Class D 1970-1979: First Mike Benson, second Ron Tamez
Class E 1980-2000: First Shana Rae, second Eli Weir
Class F 2001-Newer: First Tim Foster, second Jim Courcier

Modified
Class G 1954 and Older: First Craig Stump, second Ray Goodridge
Class H 1955-1962: First Pete Hill, second Larry Carr
Class I 1963-1969: First Steve and Cheryl Mick, second Ron and Barb Adams
Class J 1970-2000: First JT Morrison, second Jim Tompkins
Class K 2001 and Newer: First Bill Gottschalk   
 
Pickup Classes
Stock
Class L 1972 and Older: First Bob Schader, second John Gross
Class M 1973 and Newer: First Robert Gaskill, second Terry Moore

Modified
Class N 1972 and Older: First Colt Weehler, second Howard Johnson
Class O 1973 and Newer: First Hannah Rief, second Colt Weehler

Motorcycle Class
Class P All Models: First Joe Gepner, second David Peavler

Best FOMOCO: Jeff and Carol Thompson
Best MOPAR: Jim and Betty Hughes
Best GM: Mike Benson
Best “Other” Class: Duane and Diane Eilts
Best Motorcycle: Toney McElroy
Best Pickup: Roger and Susan Harris

Come home for homecoming

Southwest Valley is celebrating its all-graduate homecoming and the 10th anniversary of the Timberwolves with this year’s theme “There’s No Place Like Home.”

Homecoming events will be held Sept. 21-24. Activities begin with the Y-Teen cake auction at 6:15 p.m. at the football field followed by the coronation of homecoming royalty at 7 p.m. and a pep rally at 7:30 p.m. The Corning American Theater will present “Gran Turismo” at 7 p.m. at 704 Davis Ave.

Sept. 22 is Teal-Black-Silver Day with Villisca and Corning alumni registration taking place from 10 a.m. to noon during Chamber/Main Street coffee at the Lauvstad Center at 710 Davis Ave. The Corning Center for the Fine Arts will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 706 Davis Ave. while Corning American Theater will offer tours and free popcorn from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Corning Opera House will offer tours at 1 p.m. at 800 Davis Ave. and R&S Collectibles will offer self-guided tours of its antiques and collectible cars for $5 (under 12 years old free) from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at 530 Davis Ave.

SWV’s homecoming parade will take place at 2 p.m. Sept. 22 (register by Sept. 19 to take part in the parade). The SWV Athletic Boosters will hold a tailgate meal at 6 p.m. prior to the homecoming game with Panorama at the football field. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. with a halftime dance team performance and the announcement of coronation. The Corning American Theater will present “The Equalizer 3” at 7 p.m.
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Tours of R&S Collectibles will continued from 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 23 while local artisans will display handmade and homegrown specialty items from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. during Market in the Park in Central Park. Tours of SWV High School will begin at 10 a.m. at 904 Eight St. Tours will also be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Johnny Carson Birthplace at 500 13 St. ($10 donations suggested) and at the Adams County House of History at 1000 Benton Ave. The Corning Center for the Fine Arts will open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the French Icarian Village will offer tours from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. (meet at Central Park pavilion at 1 p.m. for transportation to 2349 220th St.).

The all-graduate social will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 23 at Corning Elementary School followed by the banquet at 6 p.m. (reservations are $25 per person for the meal and program). The Corning American Theater will present “The Equalizer 3” at 7 p.m.

Community churches will offer services on Sept. 24 (service times are available at www.adamscountyiowa.com. The Corning American Theater will present “The Equalizer 3” at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

September is Voter Registration Month

Adams County Auditor Becky Bissell and Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate are encouraging Iowans to celebrate National Voter Registration Month in September by registering to vote.

For Iowans who are already registered, it’s important to make sure their information is current. National Voter Registration Day is Sept. 19, 2023.

Last year, more than 12,000 Iowans registered to vote during National Voter Registration Month. Approximately 90 percent of eligible Iowans are registered to vote.

Auditor Bissell stresses the importance of registering to vote, stating “We want every eligible Iowan to vote, and it all starts with registration.  With the Iowa Caucuses approaching it is the perfect time to register to vote and to get engaged in Iowa’s election processes. There are a number of different ways to register, contact our office and we would be happy to assist you.”

The National Association of Secretaries of State established September as National Voter Registration Month in 2002 as a non-partisan means of encouraging voter participation and increasing awareness about state requirements and deadlines for voting.

“Voting is the best way to make your voice heard, and I want to see every eligible Iowan participate in the upcoming city and school elections in November," said Secretary Pate. "In order to participate in our elections process, it’s critical to register to vote and make sure your registration is current. Registering to vote only takes a few minutes, but in voting, Iowans can make a long-lasting impact.”

To register to vote in Iowa, one must be at least 17 years old. The deadline to pre-register before November’s city-school election is Monday, Oct. 23.

To check on voter registration status, register to vote, or update voter information, visit VoterReady.Iowa.gov

Election dates approach

As August nears its end, two dates mark the calendar for Adams County political candidates and voters: Aug. 28 for candidates wishing to file nomination papers and Aug. 29 for voters interested in receiving absentee ballots.

Aug. 28 is the first day to file nomination papers for mayors and city council members with the Adams County Auditor for the cities within Adams County.

The cities include Carbon, Corning, Nodaway and Prescott. It is also the first day to file nomination papers with the board secretary of the Corning Community School District for school board positions up for election. 

For more information on how to file nomination papers and other filing requirements, contact the Adams County Auditor for city positions and Jodi Lyddon at Southwest Valley Schools for school board positions.

The deadline to file papers for both regular city elections and school elections is Thursday, Sept. 21, at 5 p.m. The 2023 city/school election will be held Nov. 7.

Aug. 29 is the first day that the Auditor’s Office can accept absentee ballot requests for the regular city/school election on Nov. 7. Absentee ballots will not be mailed until Wednesday, Oct. 18, but can be requested from Aug. 29 through Monday, Oct. 23.

For this and other related election information, contact the Adams County Auditor’s office at 641-322-3340 or visit the Adams County website at adamscounty.iowa.gov under the Elections section. 

Submitted photo — Feed the Pack vice president Jessica Wilson, left, Feed the Pack Board member Blake Anderson, and president Pat Shipley pose with the 2023 ISEA Friend of Education Award for service to education, children and community in Des Moines.

Feed the Pack presented ISEA award

Feed the Pack was awarded the 2023 ISEA Friend of Education Award for service to education, children and community. 

Pat Shipley, Feed the Pack president, Jessica Wilson, Feed the Pack vice president, and Blake Anderson, Feed the Pack Board member, represented the joint Feed the Pack Boards at the award luncheon on Aug. 1 in Des Moines. 

Feed the Pack, a program to provide weekend and school break breakfast and lunch for eligible students, was established in the 2017-2018 school year through a $5,000 Lilly grant supplied by a Duke University program, Foundations in Leadership. The Duke University program focused on community service programs, assessing community/organizational needs, and the use of grant writing as a source of funding for non-profit organizations. Pat Shipley attended as a representative of the Presbytery of Missouri River Valley, and was the recipient of the original Lilly grant to establish a weekend “backpack program” for students at the Southwest Valley West Campus and establish a community table program. 

As a result of the receipt of the $5,000 Lilly grant, a volunteer board was established, Articles of Incorporation/Bylaws were written and a 501(c)3 non-profit organization established first at the Southwest Valley West Campus, Villisca, and in the 2019-2020 year at the Southwest Valley East Campus in Corning.

“Feed the Pack operates with and overarching Board with representatives from both SWV campuses and two separate fund-raising Boards at SWV West Campus, Villisca and SWV East Campus, Corning,” Shipley said. “The programs at the SWV East and West campuses are similar, but not identical. The Feed the Pack East has a program for elementary students and high school students. Feed the Pack West has a program for elementary and middle school students, a twice monthly Community Table for residents at Valley East Housing Authority, and delivers Food for the Heartland food boxes six times per year to Housing Authority residents and other community members. SWV West has also received a Montgomery County Foundation grant for a small concrete area at Valley East and picnic tables for the residents.”

Feed the Pack was jointly nominated for the award by the Villisca Education Association and Corning Community Education Association. 
Feed the Pack is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization and gratefully receives donations of any size to help fund continuation of programs

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City, school candidate filing nears

Aug. 28 is the first day to file nomination papers for mayors and city council members with the Adams County Auditor for the cities within Adams County.

The cities include Carbon, Corning, Nodaway and Prescott. It is also the first day to file nomination papers with the board secretary of the Corning Community School District for school board positions up for election. 

For more information on how to file nomination papers and other filing requirements, contact the Adams County Auditor for city positions and Jodi Lyddon at Southwest Valley Schools for school board positions.

The deadline to file papers for both regular city elections and school elections is Thursday, Sept. 21, at 5 p.m. The 2023 city/school election will be held Nov. 7

Doctors Dash ends
​with eye on Timber Tri

The 24th Annual Doctors Dash participants had muggy weather July 29 to complete their runs and walks.

Twenty-three volunteers are a special part of the success of the event, which starts and finishes in downtown Corning. The Mercy Health Care Foundation and CHI Health Mercy Corning Community Wellness staff coordinate the event. All proceeds from event benefit area youth programs provided by CHI Health Mercy Corning.

The event turned out to be the final Doctors Dash. A new event, the Timber Tri, is scheduled for Aug. 24, 2024. The 750 meter swim, 12 mile bike, and 3.1 mile run triathlon is a joint venture between CHI Health Mercy Corning and Lake Icaria.

Event winners from the July 29 Doctors Dash are: 

10K run: Overall winner female Hailey Egbert, Shenandoah; male Scott Vicker, Creston. First-third placing in age categories female/male were: 20-29 Tracy Head; 30-39 Caleb Sorensen, Jim Egbert; 60-69 Tom Williams.

5K run: Overall winner female Marti Sutton, Corning; male Greg Mullen of Lakewood, Colo.. First-third placing in age categories female/male were: 14 and under Blaine Hodapp; 15-19 Luke Newton, Kurtis Bradley; 20-29 Jade Wilbourne; Connor Haggerty, Michael Barbosa; 40-49 Shonda McCuen, Corrie Sorensen, Brittany Smith; Cole Waters, Brent Mullen; 40-49 Kyle Mullen 50-59 Melissa Haggerty 60-69 Wilma Osmun, Alan Adkisson; 70 and over Perry Linn, Stephen Ruggles.

5K Mile Walk: Overall winner female Payton Shuler of Corning; male Hayden McCuen of Corning. First-third placing in age categories female/male were: 14 and under Addison Shuler, Amelia McCuen; 30-39 Kelly Pierson, Samantha Kester; Caleb Allen, Brennan Kester; 40-49 Jill Shuler; 50-59 Cindy Williams, Karin Shuey, Michaeleen Burroughs; Scott Shuey, Tracy Burroughs; 60-69 Monica Allen, Paula Sink, Nancy Turner; Clint Allen, Alec Turner.

One Mile Walk: Overall winner female Kya Newton of Corning; male Marty Burroughs of Oskaloosa. First-third placing in age categories female/male were: 14 and under Adeline Hodapp; Spencer Hodapp, 40-49 Jeremy Hodapp; 50-59 Kyle Dasher.

Sponsors are Amy Wetzel, Pharm D, Dr. Sheran Fernando, Dr. Steven Freeman, Dr. Caleb Sorensen, Dr. John Safranek, Dr. Michael DelCore, Dr. Maria Fuller of Fuller Family Dental, Family Vision Center, Paislee Dalton, ARNP, Jennifer Shinkle, ARNP, Dr. Meaghan Shanahan. Appreciation goes to Michael Foods for providing post-race fruit and bottled water

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MARTI GEBBIE/Corning American Legion Post 117 — Corning American Legion Post 117 members pose for a photo following repairs in Central Park in Corning. From left are Chris Gilbert, Post Commander Clark Jones, John Gebbie, Larry Carr, Tim Birdsall, and Mick Templeton.

Legion lends hand
​at Central Park

The Corning American Legion Post 117 replaced the lights and had tuckpointing done at the Veterans Memorial located at Central Park. 

Commander Clark Jones donated his time repairing the lighting and Andy Mosby donated his time and expertise with tuckpointing.

“We are very thankful to have a Veterans Memorial in a Central Park,” Adjutant Chris Gilbert said.

The Corning American Legion Post 117 members say “thanks to all who keep Central Park looking so magnificent for our community and visitors."

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Artists to face off
​in CCFA Art Challenge

The Corning Center for the Fine Arts will be home to four artists for a painting competition during Corning’s Lazy Days.

Artists Mary Howery, Tatiana Schaapherder, Joe Jordan, and Brenda Scott will compete July 29 in the CCFA Art Challenge. The public is invited to vote for their favorite artist’s work by dropping a ticket in their basket as they paint at the CCFA. To vote, purchase a single ticket for $2 or six tickets for $10. Following the Art Challenge count, all tickets will be dumped into a container and one name will be drawn for a raffle basket with more than $100. Tickets are available at the CCFA, Adams Community Chamber of Commerce, or Corning Opera House.

Lazy Day events begin July 28 with a meet and greet with new artist Peppy Morrison Kamerzell from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the CCFA. She will also meet with the public from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. July 29.

Kids Fun Paint activities kick off Lazy Days from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. July 29. Hilary and Tracy Mosman will host the event. Paint and canvas are provided. Young artists are invited to have their photo taken and posted on Facebook.

Dr. Stephen Gruba will conduct a wine tasting from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. July 29 at the CCFA. Freewill donations will be accepted

​Cookers prep for 13th Battle of BBQ

Main Street Corning will hold its 13th annual Battle of the BBQ Cook-off July 28-29 in downtown Corning.

Gates open at 5 p.m. July 28 with entertainment by DJ Randy and Holly Cooper. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for ages 6-12. All-you-can-eat people’s choice wings will be available from 7 p.m. until they are gone. Derek Dodge at The Pub has partnered with the Battle of the BBQ to provide a beer garden.

July 29 is barbecue day with entries due throughout the morning. Turn-in times are chicken 10 a.m., ribs 10:30 a.m., pork butt 11 a.m., and beef brisket 11:30 a.m. Awards will be announced at 1 p.m.

The Battle of the BBQ 2022 had 17 entries for the cook-off competition with Smokin Suckers winning the overall champion title for the second year in a row. Hardwood BBQ was reserve champion. Third place went to Brian’s Beef and fourth place went to Sweet Smokin Jones

Suspicious letter raises scam concerns

Adams County residents are being warned of a possible scam after the Adams County recorder’s office received multiple inquiries regarding a letter or letters from a land liquidation company in Wyoming.

One of the letters includes a purchase agreement for the landowner’s property with an Aug. 2 deadline and a closing date of Dec. 20. The letter says: “We are looking to purchase vacant land in Adams County, IA and would like to purchase your property and others you may own, as referenced in the attached purchase agreement. We received your ownership information from the Adams County Property Assessor’s Office, as property ownership information is of public record.”

The letter says the company will cover all costs associated with the sale, “including back taxes within reason, as well as any closing fees.”

A press release from the recorder’s office says property owners should be suspicious of such purchase agreements. 

“There are several red flags including additional property owners who do not have any interest in the lands, sense of urgency to submit a signed purchase agreement, and the price per acre they are offering is also not reflective of the values we have seen in the past few years,” the press release says.

The recorder’s office says residents should contact the county if they have concerns about similar letters or agreements.

“This is a great reminder to be wary of anything you receive via mail or email regarding your property unless it has come directly from Adams County,” the press release says. “Please utilize caution with these types of letters and agreements. Adams County officials are happy to answer any questions regarding your property.

Independence Day
​events on tap

With July opening the 2023 calendar this weekend, a variety of Independence Day events will welcome the new month in Adams County.

Lake Icaria begins the weekend July 1 with its annual kids fishing contest for youth ages 3-12 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the marina. Adams County Conservation Board and Adams County Cattlemen sponsor lunch at 11:30 a.m. A patriotic decorating contest will be judged at 7 p.m. July 1 at Lake Icaria. First and second place prizes will be awarded at each campground.

Youngsters ages 3-12 will have the opportunity to take part in a treasure hunt sponsored by the Adams Community Chamber of Commerce at 7 p.m. July 2 on the beach at Lake Icaria. Then, at approximately 10 p.m., a firework spectacular sponsored by ACCB and community donations will be held.

From June 30 to July 4 the Cruzin Café food truck will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

The Adams Community Chamber of Commerce will serve pancakes, sausage, and eggs from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. July 4 at the 63rd Annual Flight Breakfast at Corning Municipal Airport. Freewill donations will be accepted.

Air Evac Lifeteam 164 is scheduled to fly in and emergency personnel from the Corning Fire Department EMS will be present

Flight Breakfast
​to be held July 4

The Adams Community Chamber of Commerce will host the 63rd Annual Flight Breakfast on July 4 at Corning Municipal Airport at 1906 210th St.

The Chamber will serve pancakes, sausage, and eggs from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Freewill donations will be accepted. Last year the Chamber served more than 500 people at the Flight Breakfast.

Air Evac Lifeteam 164 is scheduled to fly in and emergency personnel from the Corning Fire Department EMS will be present.

Sponsors and volunteers include Adams County Farm Bureau, Corning City Council, Corning Fire Department, local pilots, Corning Tire and Exhaust, Hy-Vee, Red Star Feeds, and Southwest Valley Schools.

Homestead exemption deadline nears

Adams County assessor Ben Mullen is reminding residents 65 and older the deadline to file for a homestead tax exemption is July 1.

On May 4, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds signed House File 718, establishing a homestead tax exemption for claimants 65 years of age or older.

In addition to the homestead tax credit, eligible claimants who own the home they live in and are 65 years of age or older on or before Jan. 1 of the assessment year are now eligible for a homestead tax exemption. For the assessment year beginning on Jan. 1, 2023, the exemption is for $3,250 of taxable value. For assessment years beginning on or after Jan. 1, 2024, the exemption is for $6,500 of taxable value. An exemption is a reduction in the taxable value of the property rather than a direct reduction in the amount of property tax paid.

The Iowa Department of Revenue has amended the Homestead Tax Credit Exemption (54-028) form to allow claimants to apply for the new exemption. Applications are due July 1 to local assessors. If the exemption is granted, the exemption will be allowed for future years without future filing as long as the claimant continues to qualify.
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Application forms can be found on the Adams County assessor’s page of the county web site adamscounty.iowa.gov, on the web at application rorm, or by visiting the Adams County assessor’s office. For more information, contact the assessor’s office at (641) 322-4312 or by email at [email protected].

Submitted photo — The cast of Disney’s “Finding Nemo Jr.” will perform June 15-16 at the Corning Opera House Cultural Center.

Opera House to present ‘Finding Nemo Jr.’

The annual youth musical at the Corning Opera House Cultural Center is Disney’s “Finding Nemo Jr.,” under the direction of Cheryl Thompson, with performance dates of 7 p.m. June 15-16. 

“Finding Nemo Jr.” is about Marlin, an over-protective father clownfish, who lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo. Young Nemo longs to explore the world but is captured and taken to Sydney, Australia. Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic ocean adventure.

The cast consists of youth between the ages of 7 and 14. They are: Nemo, Sam Stalker; Marlin, Ryder Baird; Dory, Halle Burgmaier; Coral, Eva Helvie; Professor Ray, Kinsey Donahoo; Pearl, Bethany Gerlock; Pearl’s Parent, October Edwards; Sheldon, Isabel Zimmerman; Sheldon’s Parent, Abigail Tye; Tad, Reese Wetzel; Tad’s Parent, Nora Shearer; Scuba Mask Diver/Vacationer, Keiden Foutch; Bruce, Halle McManis; Chum, Jack Morgan; Anchor, Ada Buck; Bubbles, Joslyn Dornack; Bloat, Caydance Wiese; Gurgle, Rubey Zech; Peach, Brinkley Venteicher; Gill, Addy Morgan; Nigel, Connor Pulliam; Crush, Hadley Stalker; Squirt, Aria Mobley; Kai, Wyn Helvie; Breeze, Madison McManis; Lobsters, Kinlay Pegg, Alexa McManis; Moonfish, Madelynn Bortell, Skylar Boyce, Alli Bowman, Aspen McManis, Nora Dennis; Barracuda/Grouper, Sebastian Haley; Electric Eel, Hallea Mitchell, Brystol Dennis; Damselfish, Margaret Haley; and Angelfish, Arizona Tye.

“These young people rehearse for four weeks to learn lines, songs, and choreography. Youth are from the communities of Corning, Creston, Cumberland, Lenox, Sioux City, Stanton, and Villisca,” Opera House executive director De Heaton said.

Bonnie Goodson Gibeau is assistant director and Heaton is the stage manager.

“Lucey Zech and Emma Devore are high school students who have aged out of performing and learning and helping with behind the scenes, from teaching choreography, assisting with sound and lights, costumes, props and make-up.”

 “Finding Nemo Jr.” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International www.MTIShows.com. For more information visit www.corningoperahouse.com, call the Opera House office at (641) 418-8037, or follow the Opera House on Facebook and Instagram.

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Submitted photo — Four Southwest Valley juniors pose with U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley at the May 12 Fourth Federal Judiciary Youth Summit in Council Bluffs. From left are Piper Govig, Jazmin Weston, Kailee DeWall, Grassley, SWV social studies teacher Mike Cormack, and Megan Ramsey.

SWV students attend
​Youth Summit

Four Southwest Valley juniors who applied and were accepted to represent the school attended the Fourth Federal Judiciary Youth Summit on May 12 in Council Bluffs.

The event was held at the new federal courthouse in southwestern Council Bluffs and was hosted by United States Sen. Charles Grassley. Multiple Southwest Iowa school districts send two to four members of their school to participate in the summit.

SWV juniors Megan Ramsey, Jazmin Weston, Kailee DeWall, and Piper Govig, along with SWV social studies teacher Mike Cormack, heard a brief presentation by Grassley, who has coordinated these activities throughout the state, and a keynote presentation from U.S. Justice Stephanie Rose. Rose shared her story of being appointed a U.S. federal prosecutor at a young age by President Bill Clinton after a recommendation from Sen. Tom Harkin and the approval of Grassley. Rose was later appointed as a federal district judge and currently has served nearly a dozen years in that role as one of five such justices in the state of Iowa. Her appointment was also recommended by Harkin with the approval of Grassley and was appointed by President Barack Obama.

Grassley pointed out that for more than 30 years, whenever there was a Republican president, he would recommend a judge or federal attorney with Harkin giving his support, Cormack said. If there was a president who was a Democrat, the opposite would occur. The two senators worked together in a bipartisan manner to get these appointments done.

Cormack said students had the opportunity to ask questions of both Grassley and Rose, with both answering in a civil and nonpartisan manner.

“It was a great day to learn about our federal government and afterwards, the group visited the Lewis and Clark Monument as well as the Union Pacific Museum in Council Bluffs,” he said. “All four students represented the school well, with politeness and attentiveness at all stops on this short field trip.

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Memorial Day ceremonies to take place

Ceremonies and community meals will mark Memorial Day weekend in Adams County.

A Memorial Day ceremony and community lunch will be held May 29 at Central Park in Corning.
The Southwest Valley High School band will perform at 11:15 a.m. and veteran Tim Birdsall will perform.

Lunch will served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with a speaker at 12:15 p.m. A flag retirement ceremony will be held at 12:30 p.m. followed by Taps at 1 p.m.

Grant United Methodist Church will hold its Memorial Day dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 29 with a free-will offering.

The menu will include sloppy joe or ham sandwich, baked beans, salads, pies and desserts, and coffee, tea or lemonade. All money raised by the dinner supports the Grant United Women in Faith and its work for mission projects and the Grant church.

The dinner follows an 11 a.m. memorial service at the Grant church. Grant community members will hold the service to honor lost veterans with readings, song and an honor roll.

The Grant United Methodist Church, founded in 1855, is a multigenerational church focusing on concern for its neighbors and providing a center of worship for all ages. Worship services are celebrated at 8:30 a.m. each Sunday.

The Nodaway Cemetery will hold a Memorial Day service at 10 a.m. May 20.

T-Wolf golfers shine in POI
Both Southwest Valley’s golf teams had strong showings last week in Pride of Iowa Conference Golf Tournaments.

The Timberwolf girls won the POI tourney May 2 for the second year in a row and the boys placed two golfers in the top 12 to finish fifth.

The girls team claimed their victory with a score of 375, winning by 26 strokes over Nodaway Valley’s 401.

“Individual congratulations go to Maggie Haer (medalist), Becca Wetzel (runner-up), Miaya Fourez (fifth place), and Sidney Crill (12th place) who, by finishing in the top 12, each received an individual medal,” head coach Cindy Drake said.

Each girl on the team received a medal for being a player on the winning team.

“The wind was murderous, gusting to 30-35 mph,” Drake said. “It was a tough day for golf with all that wind, but the girls were successful in adjusting their swings and their aiming to allow for the wind.”

Individual scores were: Haer (83), Wetzel (91), Fourez (97), Crill (104), Grace Bain (106), and Kensie Fast (129).

Team scores were: SWV 375, Nodaway Valley 401, MSM 408, Mt. Ayr 434, East Union 444, Wayne 453, Southeast Warren 492. Lenox, Central Decatur, and Bedford did not field full teams.

On the boys’ said, Isaac Currin placed seventh and Paul Douglas placed 11th to finish in the top 12 May 3 in the POI tournament in Leon.

“Five boys tied for the winning score, 82, on a perfect day for golf,” Drake said. “Isaac’s score of 86 was the third lowest score of the day, putting him in seventh in the final standing. Paul Douglas shot a 94.” 

The tournament was played at the Leon Golf and Country Club with 10 schools competing. Mt. Ayr won the team title with a score of 347. SWV finished fifth with a 378. Other schools competing were Nodaway Valley (365), Bedford (366), Wayne (375), East Union (381), Lenox (404), Southeast Warren (406), and MSM (428). 

The Timberwolves hosted East Mills and Griswold for a triangular meet April 29.

“The weather was nice when we teed off but quickly turned cold and very windy, making for some of the worst weather yet this spring,” Drake said.

The SWV boys (185) finished behind EM’s 174. Griswold scored 191. There were no medals for the SWV boys. The medalist, Fletcher Proctor of EM, shot a 38, with runner up Hogan Hook of Griswold shooting 40. For SWV, Currin led the team with a 41, Ethan Bruce 46, Douglas 46, Harley Crill 52, and Jack Kretzinger 58.

Neither EM nor Griswold had enough girls for a team score. The SWV girls shot 210, with Fourez receiving runner-up honors with a 50, just two shots behind the meet’s medalist, Emerson Burdic of EM. Haer had a 52, Wetzel 52, Crill 55, Grace Gain 56, and Kensie Fast 62.

The boys play May 10 in their sectional golf in Shenandoah. The girls play round 1 of regional golf May 12 at the Fremont County Golf Club.

Submitted photo — Main Street Iowa state coordinator Michael Wagler, left, presents Leland Shipley, second from left with Main Street Iowa’s Leadership Award for his work with Main Street Corning. Also pictured are Main Street Corning executive director Shannon Booth and Iowa Economic Development Authority executive director Debi Durham.

Shipley presented Leadership Award

Main Street Iowa hosted the annual Main Street Iowa Development Awards celebration April 21 at Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center in Des Moines.

The program honors the efforts of those who work tirelessly to revitalize Iowa’s downtowns and to make a difference in the state’s Main Street districts.

Leland Shipley received the Leadership Award. Shipley represented the Main Street Corning Program.

Debi Durham, executive director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority, and Michael Wagler, Main Street Iowa state coordinator, presented the honors.

“The Main Street Iowa program is a powerful economic development tool that has stood the test of time since its introduction in 1985,” Durham said. “We continue to see significant growth in businesses, jobs, and investment in communities of all sizes because of the program. As a result, these districts serve as inspiring examples of what’s possible for Iowa’s downtowns.”

“Main Street is grassroots economic development,” Wagler said. “It is inspiring to witness the impactful work of local Main Street program staff, volunteers, and community partners.”

In 1985, the Iowa Legislature adopted Main Street America’s Four Point Approach® to district revitalization by establishing Main Street Iowa within the agency that is now the IEDA. Since then, the Main Street Iowa program has had a significant impact on Iowa’s economy, including more than $2.6 billion in private investment, more than 3.7 million volunteer hours, more than 5,300 new businesses, and more than 16,000 jobs. 

For more information about Main Street Iowa and how all Iowa communities can access commercial revitalization assistance through the Iowa Downtown Resource Center, visit iowaeda.com/downtown-resource-center/, email [email protected] or call 515-348-6184.

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Student charged
​with terroristic threat

A Southwest Valley High School student has been charged with threat of terrorism and the high school principal has tendered his resignation effective the end of the school year after the student threatened to harm students and staff at the school last week.

According to an Adams County Sheriff’s Office press release, the Sheriff’s Office and SWV superintendent Chris Fenster were notified the afternoon of April 14 of the threat. Following its investigation, the Sheriff’s Office charged the student April 15 after determining the threat was made two to three weeks prior, the report says. The student is no longer allowed on school grounds and the Sheriff’s Office and Juvenile Court Services placed the student on a GPS monitor.

“Safeguards were immediately put in place to ensure the safety of all Southwest Valley students and staff,” the press release says.

Extra law enforcement was put in place April 17 to provide continued safety at the school, the press release says. Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office worked in conjunction with the Adams County Sheriff’s Office “to alleviate any uncertainty within both the Corning and Villisca communities.”

“Moving forward for the remainder of the school year, Adams County Sheriff’s Office will maintain a presence within the Southwest Valley School District daily,” the press release says. “We are not only doing this for safety concerns but to provide staff and student support at this time.”

Fenster notified the Adams County Sheriff’s Office on April 17 about alleged threatening posts on social media by the same student, according to the press release. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office began investigating the alleged threat and continued the investigation with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office throughout April 17-18. At the time, neither Sheriff’s Office determined the alleged threats to be credible.

At its April 17 meeting, the Corning board of education unanimously accepted the resignation of high school principal head football coach Anthony Donahoo effective the end of the 2022-2023 school year.

Informational meetings were held April 19 with high school students and staff “to provide transparency to the situation and offer additional support,” the press release says.

“Additional security measures will be implemented during all Southwest Valley activities including prom and graduation,” according to the press release.

CARIE MORALES/Free Press — The Iowa Hawkeye Chapter of the Studebaker Drivers Club stopped April 16 in Corning. The drivers visited the Corning Opera House, House of History, Corning Center for the Fine Arts, and R&S Collectibles.

​Studebakers chapter visits Corning

The Iowa Hawkeye Chapter of the Studebaker Drivers Club visited Corning on April 16.

Members attended the club’s monthly meeting hosted by Herold and Linda Spring at the Corning Opera House and visited the House of History, Corning Center for the Fine Arts, and R&S Collectibles.

The Iowa Hawkeye Chapter has been active since 1972. With more than 100 members all over the state and beyond, they hold two tours a year and monthly meetings throughout the state.

The history of Studebaker. Studebaker dealerships were common in America; nearly every town had a dealership first selling wagons and then motorized vehicles. In 1852, the Studebaker brothers built horse-drawn buggies, carriages, and wagons. Their wagons were a primary mode of transportation as the nation migrated westward. Several U.S. Presidents used Studebaker carriages. In 1902, Studebaker started building electric automobiles but soon went to gasoline power. By 1915, Studebaker was producing more than 45,000 cars annually. Wagon production also continued until 1919. In 1928, Studebaker acquired Pierce-Arrow. Studebaker faced temporary receivership in 1933 but was on the road to recovery in 1934.

During World War II, Studebaker produced trucks and radial engines for aircraft. After the war, automobile and truck production resumed, and by the 1950s, Studebaker offered their famed bullet-nose design. During the last half of the 1950s, Studebaker introduced their family of Hawks, merged with Packard, and in 1959, responded to the growing demand for a more compact family car with the Lark.

By 1963 Studebaker released the Avanti and produced the Lark, Champion,  light-duty trucks, and postal vans. Production ceased in the South Bend, Indiana plant in 1964 but continued in Canada until 1966. The Avanti Motor Company continued to build the Avanti II in South Bend until 1987, when production and redesign moved to Ohio, then Georgia, and on to Cancun, Mexico, where production of the Avanti ceased in March 2006.

The Iowa Hawkeye Chapter’s next meeting is a two-day weekend tour in Dubuque, Iowa, in May. For more information, visit www.studebakersiowa.com, www.studebakerdriversclub.com, or www.facebook.com/IowaStudebakers/about. The chapter president is Gary Thoren of Red Oak and the vice president is Rex Raasch of Des Moines

Primrose earns Small Business award

U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), ranking member of the Senate Small Business Committee, visited Primrose Restaurant on April 6 to named it the Small Business of the Week.

“World-class dining, with quality, farm-to-table ingredients has put Primrose on the map,” Ernst said. “I’m proud to see the investment and dedication to the heart of Corning and look forward to seeing the continued success of another small business here in Southwest Iowa.”

Located in the Main Street district of Corning, Primrose provides a one-of-a-kind dining experience and excellent service to the region. Ernst joined the owners of Primrose in to congratulate them in person and deliver their Small Business of the Week award.

Throughout this Congress, Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties. She has been traveling from river to river visiting with small business owners, hearing the concerns of job creators, and celebrating the successes of Iowa’s entrepreneurs.

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148 roadwork
​begins April 10

Motorists who travel on Iowa 148 in the Corning city limits need to be aware of an upcoming construction project that may slow down their trip.

Beginning at 8 a.m. on Monday, April 10, until Thursday, Aug. 31, weather permitting, construction crews will begin a project on Iowa 148 between U.S. 34 and Adams County Road N-28 that includes construction of a bridge approach, asphalt pavement resurfacing, and culvert and sidewalk work, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation.

While construction work takes place weekdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., intermittent lane closures, flaggers, and pilot cars will be used to direct traffic through the work zone.

Motorists are asked to help keep everyone on the road safer. Drive with caution, obey the posted speed limit and other signs in the work area, and be aware that traffic fines for moving violations are at least double in work zones. As in all work zones, drivers should stay alert, allow ample space between vehicles, and wear seat belts. 

The latest traveler information is available anytime through Iowa DOT’s 511 system. Visit 511ia.org; call 511 (within Iowa) or 800-288-1047 (nationwide); stay connected with 511 on Facebook or Twitter (find links at https://iowadot.gov/511/511-social-media-sites); or download the free app to mobile devices.

Subscribe to Your 511 and sign up to receive email/text alerts. Visit https://new.511ia.org/#login to sign up. For instructions and help with this feature, visit https://www.511ia.org/help/section/how-to-create-and-manage-a-511-account.html.

Churches share Holy Week services

With Palm Sunday on April 2, Adams Community churches are offering several Holy Week services this Easter.

The First Presbyterian Church of Corning is planning a Palm Sunday breakfast on April 2 to start the Christian Holy Week. Breakfast begins at 8:30 a.m. with a menu of egg bake, fruit cups, muffins, coffee cake, bagels, and beverages in the church basement. Palm Sunday services will begin at 10 a.m. Easter Sunday services the next weekend will also begin at 10 a.m. Sunday, April 9.

Corning United Methodist Church will observe both Palm Sunday and Conformation Sunday at 10:30 a.m. April 2 in the sanctuary with a reception of cookies and ice cream in the Fellowship Hall. On April 6, Maundy Thursday, a progressive storytelling meal with a baked potato bar will be held at 6 p.m.  in the Fellowship Hall. A Good Friday service will be held at 7 p.m. April 7 at the First Presbyterian Church. An Easter Sunday service will be held at 10:30 a.m. in the sanctuary April 9.

Living for Christ Outreach will hold a Good Friday service, Remember Christ’s Death, at 6 p.m. April 6. Easter Sunday services begin at 9:30 a.m. with Sunday school and Wisdom Time followed by an Easter morning service at 10:30 a.m. April 9

Severe Weather Awareness Week is March 27-31

The Adams County Emergency Management, Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Natural Weather Service, and Iowa Emergency Management Association have joined together to promote Severe Weather Awareness Week, March 27-31.

Severe Weather Awareness Week is an opportunity to highlight the importance of being aware of, and prepared for, severe weather through a different focus each day:

• Monday — Severe thunderstorms
• Tuesday — Weather warnings
• Wednesday — Tornadoes
• Thursday — Family preparedness
• Friday — Flash floods

The annual statewide tornado drill will take place at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 29. In the event of severe weather, the drill will be postponed to 10 a.m. March 30.

Additional information about the tornado drill can be found on local National Weather Service websites.

For more information about severe weather preparedness, visit www.ready.iowa.gov.

Strong Kids — Strong Future to take place

Fostering Hope of Southwest Iowa is offering a community training event to help parents better understand a child’s anxiety, panic, or obsessive-compulsive disorder and re-focus parenting skills.

Strong Kids — Strong Future: Helping Adults Help Kids with Dr. Joann Seeman Smith will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 25 at the First Presbyterian Church at 907 Grove Ave. in Corning.

Dr. Seeman Smith is a licensed mental health counselor who specializes in diagnosis, and treatment of children and adolescents. She received her Ph.D. in counseling psychology from Iowa State University in 2008. She works with many diagnoses and issues including, attention-deficit disorder, learning disabilities, autism-spectrum disorders, behavior problems, depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety, and adjustment difficulties due to abuse, foster care, transition to adoption, bereavement, and divorce.

In addition to standard short-term and traditional talk therapies, Dr. Seeman Smith has expertise in using play therapy approaches with children, teens, and families, including children and families with attachment-based difficulties. She has been providing training for foster and adoptive parents since 2008. She currently has her own practice with offices in Ames and Granger. She also provides consultation and training for schools to better understand children with trauma.

Dr. Seeman Smith will offer two three-hour sessions, “Anxiety, Panic and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): What is really going on and what can you do to help yourself or your child” and “Refocusing and Recentering: Preparing yourself for the bumpy ride that is parenting.”

Anxiety, Panic and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) will help participants gain greater insight and understanding behind the biology of why anxiety exists and teach the skills needed for children and adolescents, as well as adults, to be able to manage anxiety, panic, and obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors more effectively.

Refocusing and Recentering will give participants strategies to keep sight of themselves in the intensity and emotionality of foster care and stay on the path of heath, both physically and mentally while parenting.

The training is open to the general public, however, some topics are not suitable to those under the age of 18. No childcare will be provided. 

Registration closes March 17. To register, visit www.1stprescorning.org/strong. 

The training is Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, foster, and adoptive credit approved.

Fostering Hope of Southwest Iowa is a ministry of the First Presbyterian Church of Corning.

Vets' voices to be heard
​at Opera House

The Corning Opera House Cultural Center has received funding from Humanities Iowa, a private, non-profit, to host a presentation called “Hear Iowa Veteran’s Stories In Their Own Words” by Sara Robinson, starting at 1 p.m. Friday, March 3.

A cultural resource for Iowans since 1971, Humanities Iowa offers many cultural and historical programs and grants to Iowa’s communities. 

Sara Maniscalco Robinson is a native of Boone and served in the Iowa National Guard since 1997 as a broadcast journalist. This enabled her to travel the world and learn about story telling. In 2007, she was asked to volunteer to interview some veterans to help the Iowa Gold Star Museum on a video project for their upcoming POW exhibit. This quickly evolved into a mission to save the nation’s heroes before the stories of their service are lost with the veterans who carry them.

“Ms. Robinson focuses on letting the veterans tell their own stories through her powerful videos and historical photos to better tell the story,” Opera House executive director De Heaton said. “You will hear accounts of the day Pearl Harbor was bombed and the morning the Twin Towers were attacked, what it was like to be a woman in the military and what it feels like to be in an IED explosion driving across Iraq.”

This presentation is open to all ages. First Friday Friends of the Corning Opera House is a monthly speaker series. For information on upcoming speakers, go to www.CorningOperaHouse.com or call (641) 418-8037. The Opera House is located at 800 Davis Avenue and is handicapped accessible

T-Wolves gain experience
​at state

The Timberwolf wrestling team sent four wrestlers the Iowa High School State Wrestling Tournament Feb. 15-18 in Des Moines.

Brayden Maeder competed at 113 pounds, Tate Haffner at 182, Colin Jacobs at 195, and Dillon Inman at 220. All four wrestlers competed hard against the best competition in the state but were unable to make the top eight in their weight class to make the podium and earn a medal, assistant coach Derek Maeder said. 

“When you get to the state tournament there aren’t any easy matches. At that point every wrestler is good, and every match is a battle. All four guys battled through each of their matches, but unfortunately, we weren’t able to bring home any hardware this year,” Maeder said. “We’re proud of our guys for their effort and the experience they gained by wrestling at a tournament like this extremely valuable as we look forward to next year. We bring back Maeder, Haffner and Inman next year as they are only juniors. Colin Jacobs was the lone senior on the team, and it was great to see him finish his career at the state tournament. Colin is a fun kid to be around, he will be greatly missed next year.”

Results from the state tournament are:
1A-113 — Brayden Maeder (42-6) 
• Championship Round 1 —Maeder received a bye
• Championship Round 2 —Maeder won by decision over Gavin Kiger (Logan-Magnolia) 36-13 (Decision 6-0)
• Quarterfinal — Rowdy Neighbor (Alburnett) 47-3 won by tech fall over Maeder (TF-1.5 5:34 (15-0))
• Consolation Round 4 — Ayden Bergman (Jesup) 39-12 won by major decision over Maeder (MD 12-2)

1A-182 — Tate Haffner (39-13) 
• Championship Round 1 — Chase Wickwire (Belle Plaine) 41-8 won by fall over Haffner (Fall 0:53)
• Consolation Round 1 —Haffner received a bye
• Consolation Round 2 — Cade Shirk (Emmetsburg) 31-7 won by major decision over Haffner (MD 12-4)

1A-195 — Colin Jacobs (33-20)
• Championship Round 1 — Parker Timp (South Winneshiek) 20-12 won by fall over Jacobs (Fall 3:41)
• Consolation Round 1 —Jacobs received a bye
• Consolation Round 2 —Jacobs won by fall over Taite Peach (Iowa Valley, Marengo) 39-12 (Fall 0:41)
• Consolation Round 3 — Kyle Kuhlmann (Sumner-Fredericksburg) 35-8 won by fall over Jacobs (Fall 3:01)

1A-220 — Dillon Inman (28-17)
• Championship Round 1 — Henry Lund (AHSTW) 37-8 won by fall over Inman (Fall 0:41)
• Consolation Round 1 — Inman received a bye
• Consolation Round 2 — Jack Hiland (Bellevue) 50-8 won by fall over Inman (Fall 3:18)

SWV sends four wrestlers
​to state

The Southwest Valley wrestling team traveled Feb. 11 to Riverside High School in Oakland to compete in the district wrestling tournament.

The Timberwolves took nine wrestlers to the tournament and ended the day with four of them advancing to the Iowa High School State Wrestling Tournament Feb. 15-18 in Des Moines.

Brayden Maeder won the 113 pound title by pinning Jett Sornson of Treynor in 2:57 in the finals and Colin Jacobs won the 195 pound title by pinning Rafe Gayer of Treynor in :42 seconds.

Dillon Inman and Tate Haffner also wrestled in the finals but came up short of a district championship. Tate Haffner was pinned by Levi Young of Treynor in 5:34 and Dillon Inman was pinned by Caden Forristall of Riverside in 3:43.

The district tournament uses a true second place format, so Haffner and Inman both had to wrestle back to claim a true second place since they hadn’t already beaten the third place finisher, assistant coach Derek Maeder said.

At 182 pounds Tate Haffner pinned Ryker Adair of Underwood in 1:04 and at 220 pounds Dillon Inman pinned Lowell Knott of Treynor in 1:47 to punch their tickets to the state tournament. Sawyer Wilkinson just missed making the state tournament as he finished in third place at 285 pounds. 
Gavin Wetzel, Brody Sparks, Ely Rodriguez, and Ian Forsythe also competed at the district tournament but didn’t place in the top four of their weight class.

“We knew going into districts that 145-170 pounds were the most balanced and toughest weight classes of the tournament,” Maeder said. “Ely and Ian both had fantastic season finishing with 34 and 36 wins respectively. It’s unfortunate their district had four to five good kids at each weight, both have beaten kids from other districts that advanced to state. Gavin made the varsity lineup after Christmas break and did a great job for us filling in at 160 pounds when he is really a 152 pounder.”

The state tournament begins at 9 a.m. Feb. 15 at Wells Fargo Arena. Class 1A wrestles at 9 a.m. Feb. 15-18. The state tournament was changed from a 16-man bracket to a 24-man bracket this year. All wrestlers are seeded and the top eight seeds get a bye first round. Competing in the first round at 182 pounds, Haffner (39-11) will go up against Chase Wickwire of Belle Plaine (37-5). At 195, Jacobs (32-18) will face Parker Timp of South Winneshiek (18-10). At 220 pounds, Inman will square off with Henry Lund of AHSTW (35-6).

First round winners on Feb. 15 will also wrestle in the second round that day along with fifth seed Brayden Maeder (41-4) taking on the first round winner between Owen Nepple of Kuemper Catholic (25-14) and Cole Frost of Don Bosco (28-14). All wrestlers will wrestle Feb. 16 in the double elimination tournament.

“These four guys have worked hard to get here, now it’s up to them to decide how far they want to advance in the tournament,” Maeder said. “They all have the ability to win some matches and even make the podium, we believe in them, now they have to believe in themselves."

SWAT shows strengths
​at state 

The SWAT Valkyries showed their strengths at the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union Girls State Wrestling Tournament Feb. 2-3 at Xtream Arena in Coralville.

Ady Lundquist placed third at 110 pounds, Grace Britten placed sixth at 170 pounds, and Haley Armstrong placed eighth at 235 pounds. The Valkyries placed 16th as a team against more than 155 schools competing.

Lundquist pinned her first three opponents, defeating Johnelle Gliem of Baxter in 0:44, Cierra Elderbaum of Lewis Central in 1:05, and Josseline Hageman of South Winneshiek in 1:39. In the semifinal Jasmine Luedtke of Ottumwa won by fall over Lundquist in 4:54. Lundquist came back in the consolation semifinal to pin Trista Guinn of Graettinger-Terril/Ruthven-Ayrshire in 0:42 then claimed a 10-7 win over No. 1 seed Jalynn Goodale of Osage. 

Britten also pinned her first three opponents, Glorious Fridley of Southeast Warren/Melcher-Dallas in 0:47, Leah Grimm of Osage in 4:47, and No. 2 seed Bella Porcelli of Southeast Polk in 3:20. Britten lost by fall in 5:44 in the semifinal to Libby Dix of Mount Vernon and in 1:07 in the consolation semifinal to Autumn Elsbury of South Tama County. In the fifth place match, Britten lost by fall in 3:22 to Brooklyn Graham of East Buchanan. 

Armstrong pinned her first two opponents, Maddy Stanek of Manson Northwest Webster in 2:22 and Skyla Jevne of Decorah in 0:42. Jocelyn Buffum of Missouri Valley won by fall over Armstrong in 4:10 in the quarterfinal. Armstrong pinned Katelyn Brokus of Dubuque Hempstead in 1:06 in fourth round consolation but lost by fall in round five to Emma Cook of Colfax-Mingo in 1:40 and in the seventh place match to Briar Ludeman of Cedar Falls in 0:36.

Two other Valkyries, Jazz Christensen at 100 pounds and Ellen Gerlock at 190, competed in the state tournament.

Christensen lost her first two matches, falling to Aroura Preston of Spirit Lake Park in a 20-8 decision and to Daniela Salinas of CBCSD co-op wrestling in an 11-5 decision. 

Gerlock pinned Elvia Topete Anzua of MOC-Floyd Valley in 5:30 in her first round by lost by fall to Isabelle Kipp of South Winneshiek in 2:20 and to Kaylee De Jong of Boyden-Hull/Rock Valley in 1:42.

Six Valkyries qualify
​for state tournament

Six SWAT Valkyries wrestlers — including two from Southwest Valley — have qualified for the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union Girls State Wrestling Tournament Feb. 2-3 at Xtream Arena in Coralville.

SWV’s Adyson Lundquist and Evy Marlin will join SWAT teammates Grace Britten, Hailey Armstrong, Jazz Christensen, and Ellen Gerlock in a shot at a state title after qualifying Jan. 27 in the IGHSAU Region 1 Tournament in Sioux City.

Armstrong, Lundquist, and Gerlock earned regional titles with wins at 235 pounds, 110 pounds, and 190 pounds respectively. Marlin, Christensen, and Britten placed second at 130, 100, and 170 respectively.

Lundquist pinned all three of her opponents, winning by fall over Kambry Gordon of Clarinda in 0:36 in the quarterfinal, Audrina Johansen of Glenwood in 2:36 in the semifinal, and Josie Lennon of Sergeant Bluff-Luton in 1:22 in the first place match.

Gerlock also pinned all three of her opponents, defeating Hailey Goberson of Central Lyon/George-Little Rock in 2:16, Kalen Westerfield of Underwood in 1:50, and Brooklyn Robinson of Humboldt in 0:00.

Armstrong pinned two for the 235 title, taking down Jacqueline Ordonez of Pocahontas in 1:13 and Isabella Canada of AHSTW in 5:10.

Marlin pinned her first two opponents, defeating Emerson Gregg of Treynor in 1:07 and Lauralyse Flint-Spencer of Glenwood in 3:59. She lost by fall in 3:28 in the first place match.

Christensen finished the tournament 1-1, pinning Genessis Corado of Eagle Grove in 1:10 then losing by fall to Ava McNeal of Lewis Central in 0:36.

Britten pinned her first two opponents, Dylan Saathoff of Humboldt in 1:00 and Aria Rensink of Boyden-Hull/Rock Valley in 3:21. She lost by fall in the championship match to Louise Meyer of Central Lyon/George-Little Rock in 1:26.

Missing the cut for state were Quincy Sorensen at 115, Lilliana Tafoya at 135, Mia South at 140, Lily Johnson at 145, and Rio Johnson at 155.

Sorensen lost by fall to Lila Walding of Sergeant Bluff-Luton in 0:52 and then came back to pin Jerri Hughes of CBCSD in 1:20 before losing to Melonie Barillas of Sioux City West in 1:48.

Tafoya lost by fall to Nataley Frerk of Pocahontas in 0:44, won an 11-10 decision over Kaylynn Kepler of Eagle Grove, and fell to Rya Montagne of Sergeant Bluff-Luton in 3:17.

South pinned Taya Adams of Denison-Schleswig in 3:35 then lost by fall to Alyssa Schnoor of Sheldon/South O`Brien in 0:27. South pinned her next two opponents, Vanessa Betancorth of Sioux City West in 2:52 and Mia Harris of Humboldt in 2:35. South fell to Avery Ballis of Okoboji/HMS in 4:52 in the consolation semifinal and Riley Weiler of Central Lyon/George-Little Rock in 0:40 in the fifth place match.

Lily Johnson lost by fall to Nancy Bowman of Logan-Magnolia in 0:51 and McKenna Hooyer of Central Lyon/George-Little Rock in 4:45.

Rio Johnson lost by fall to Kassidy Fiala of CBCSD in 1:49 and lost a 22014 decision to Mary Bowman of Logan-Magnolia.

Corning schools issues
​on March 7 ballot

A special election has been called for the Corning Community School District on March 7.

On the ballot will be two public measures asking voter approval for a bond issue for improvements to the elementary school and other areas of the campus. The public measures require a 60 percent approval for passage of the bond.

Also on the ballot will be the election of a director to sit on the Corning Community School District Board of Directors to fill a vacancy that was created in the fall of 2021 and was filled by James Houck. At this point the Auditor's Office does not have the names of those who have filed to run for the position on the ballot as the candidate filing deadline is Feb. 10 to the school board secretary.

Adams County and Taylor County voters who reside in the Corning Community School District are eligible to vote in this election. Voting will be held only at the Corning Community Center as the precincts are being consolidated for this election and the poll will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, March 7.

Absentee ballot request forms are available now with the last day to request to have an absentee ballot by mail is February 20th which is also the pre-registration deadline. The Auditor's Office will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. that day, which also happens to be a federal holiday so other courthouse offices are closed. In-person absentee voting at the Auditor's Office will begin when ballots are available during regular office hours and run through the day before the election, March 6. 

For more information regarding this election, contact the Auditor's Office at (641) 322-3340.

CARIE MORALES/Free Press — Southwest Valley’s Beau Johnston faces a Red Oak competitor Jan. 3. The Timberwolf wrestling team will join 27 other teams Jan. 20-21 for the 68th Annul John J. Harris Wrestling Tournament in Corning.

John H. Harris tourney
​set Jan. 20-21

The John J. Harris Wrestling Tournament will be held Jan. 20-21 at the Southwest Valley High School campus in Corning.

The tournament began in 1955 making this year’s event the 68th year. Twenty-eight teams will travel to Corning for the event. 

According to the most recent rankings released by IAWrestle, this year’s competition will feature 31 ranked grapplers. Thirteen of the 14 weight classes will have a ranked wrestler, with multiple weights featuring two or more ranked wrestlers.

“None of the teams competing are ranked but we do have some great teams competing,” SWV athletic director Allen Naugle said. “Look for Class 2A perennial power Creston to vie for one of the top spots as well as Atlantic, Winterset, Riverside and Missouri Valley. Overall it will be an extremely competitive and close team race!”

Competing teams include AC/GC, Atlantic, Bedford, CAM, Centerville, Central Decatur, Clarinda, Clarke, Creston, Denison-Schleswig, Earlham, East Mills, Griswold, Lenox, Missouri Valley, Mt. Ayr, MVAOCOU, Nodaway Valley, Panorama, Red Oak, Riverside, Shenandoah, Southwest Iowa, SWV, Tri Center, Wayne, and Winterset.

The tournament will be a double elimination tournament. Pigtail matches are just that and do not guarantee a wrestler more than one match, Naugle said. Two mats will be placed in the Activity Center gym and two mats will be placed in the high school gym. The high school gym will also be the site of weigh-ins on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning.

The Jan. 20 schedule begins with weigh-ins at 2 p.m. in the high school gym followed by a coaches’ meeting at 3 p.m. in the music room in the Activity Center. All wrestlers and managers should go to the Activity Center gym to be marked for admission. The cheerleaders should report to the band room in the Activity Center. The National Anthem will be performed at 4 p.m. in both gyms. Pigtails and championship first round will take place from 4 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. with a dinner break from 6:45 p.m. to 7 p.m. Quarterfinals and first round consolation matches will be held from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The 106-145 weight classes will compete in the high school gym and the 152-285 classes will compete in the Activity Center.

The Jan. 21 schedule begins with weigh-ins at 9 a.m. in the high school gym and coaches meeting at 9:20 a.m. in the music room in the Activity Center. Second round consolation takes place from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. with the 106-145 classes in the Activity Center and the 158-285 classes in the high school gym.

Semifinals and third round consolation take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with semifinals in the Activity Center and consolation in the high school gym and a break from 1:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. The National Anthem will be performed at 1:45 p.m. in the Activity Center.

Consolation semifinals for all weights will take place from 1:45 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Activity Center. Fifth and sixth place matches will be held from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Activity Center. Championship and third/fourth place matches will be held from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Activity Center.

“All times are approximate. We will run ahead of schedule when possible,” Naugle said.

Plans are to livestream the two mats in the Activity Center both days of the tournament, Naugle said.

“Unfortunately we do not have the capability this year to livestream the high school gym also,” he said.

The link for the live stream is https://www.fullerdigital.net/southwest-valley.

Admission prices for the John J. Harris Tournament are $5 each day for adults and students. The passes are good all day. IHSAA/IGHSAU administrator passes will be the only passes accepted.

“We greatly appreciate your continued support and coverage of Southwest Valley athletics,” Naugle said. “We are very excited about hosting such a great event again this year! We have some of the top wrestlers in Southwest Iowa in attendance and we expect this tournament to continue to be a great experience for everyone in attendance!"

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Corning schools
​to host meetings

The Corning Community School District will host two community meetings and tours focused on the district’s facility needs and the proposed solution on the ballot in March.

The events will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 11, and Tuesday, Feb. 28. On both dates, tours of the elementary school will be from 5 p.m. to 6:10 p.m., while a community meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the high school auditorium.

“Our community has been the driving force behind the process to address our district’s facility needs. Now, we look to continue the conversation through these upcoming meetings and tours,” said Chris Fenster, Southwest Valley superintendent. “We look forward to sharing more information and answering community members’ questions ahead of election day.”

If voters approve the $19.2 million bond issue on March 7, the district will be able to move forward with key facilities upgrades that benefit students across all grade levels. These include east classroom additions at the elementary school, the addition of a new elementary gymnasium, and an elementary safe room upgrade for severe weather events.

Additionally, the district would renovate the central building and the west pod to create new early childhood education space, while also replacing the wooden playground structure at the elementary school. The plan also calls for new fences, dugouts, press box, concessions, bleachers, and accessibility upgrades at the baseball and softball fields.

An approved bond would have a maximum property tax impact of $69 per year ($5.81 per month) on a home with an assessed value of $100,000. Even with an approved bond, Fenster said the district’s tax rate would be the third lowest it has been over the last 14 years.

For more information on the district’s needs, the proposed solution, and the estimated property tax impact, visit https://www.corningschoolbond.org.

Submitted photo — Two Adams County Board of Supervisors — Merlin Dixon, left, and Doug Birt — were honored Dec. 27 at their last official meeting.

Two Board of Supervisors recognized

Merlin Dixon and Doug Birt attended their last official meeting Dec. 27 after serving Adams County as supervisors for more than a decade.

Both men had been elected to the board for several terms and both had served as chair and vice chair over their years of service. 

Birt was the chair of the board for this past year. He served for three terms, for a total of 12 years. He said that conservation and Lake Icaria were the areas of the board that he was most passionate about, and it was rewarding to see the growth there. His service on the board also coincided with the easing of the budgetary process in which it wasn’t a struggle to find funds to run the county providing the services that the residents depend on, and the supervisors were better able to do the work that met their priorities.

“It has been gratifying to see the growth in the county in all areas,” he said.

Dixon has served 10 years as a supervisor, and also served as Adams County sheriff for 21 years before that for a total of 31 years of service to Adams County. His focus was on serving the residents of the county with their wants and needs. He said that it is hard to satisfy everyone’s need but it is something that he always strove to achieve. He said he was proud of the overall improvement of the maintenance on the roads and bridges of the county and that Adams County has someone dedicated to every job and office.

Both men were awarded certificates of appreciation for their years of service. A coffee was hosted in their honor at the courthouse following the presentation

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Lake Icaria site
​of First Day Hike

A First Day Hike will take place Jan. 1 at Lake Icaria Recreation Area.

The guided hike will be led by Michelle Wilson of Radiant Wellness Solutions. The guided hike will begin at 1 p.m.

“Parks in Iowa have been hosting First Day Hikes on Jan. 1 for years,” Wilson said. “As a hiker who enjoys the Lake Icaria trails year-round, I’m excited to partner with the Lake Icaria staff again this year to bring more people to the trails for the new year. Walking the trails is an ideal way to start the new year.”

Hikers will meet Jan. 1 at the nature trail near the beach at Lake Icaria for this event. Participants are encouraged to wear warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes/boots. The beach to dam nature trail is 1.72 miles round-trip.

Travis Paul, Adams County Conservation Board director said, “The park is a beautiful outdoor setting where hikers can experience the woodlands and all of the birds and wildlife that live here as well as wonderful views of the lake.”

Lake Icaria is located four miles north of Corning. Lake Icaria offers six miles of walking and hiking trails throughout the park where park visitors can experience the outdoors. Lake Icaria is managed by the Adams County Conservation Board.

An outdoor enthusiast, Wilson leads guided hikes and backpacking trips throughout the year on Iowa trails.

“The lake is such a gem. A lot of people know about the lake for camping and boating or fishing.” said Wilson. “Icaria’s trails are some of my favorites in Southwest Iowa.”

For more information, contact Wilson at [email protected] or (641) 202-6821.

Shop with a cop

​CARIE MORALES/Free Press — The Adams County Sheriff’s Office shops with children Dec. 17 at General Dollar in Corning for its Shop with a Cop program. The youngsters met at 9:30 a.m. and were able to shop until 11 a.m. After selecting their gifts, they wrapped them at the Corning Fire Department and were taken home with their wrapped gifts to put under their Christmas trees. This is the first year the Sheriff’s Office has had Shop with a Cop.

Christmas for Kids brightens holiday

Every year there are challenges to preparing for Christmas, from what gifts children should receive to whether to serve turkey or ham.

There is no end to the questions and decisions in preparing for this special celebration and one local program, Christmas for Kids, is facing challenges of its own.

This year MATURA, Adam’s County Sheriff’s Office, and Norvell’s People in Need Coffee Group had some challenges as they prepared for the Third Annual Christmas for Kids activity, Brian Peterson said.

“We apologize for being late getting information out and for the short time frame the community has to make a monetary or toy donation,” he said.

Adams County Sherriff Allan Johannes encourages everyone to bring their donations to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office any day of the week, any time of the day.

“We will only accept checks made out to MATURA and donors should write Christmas for Kids in the notes section,” Johannes said.  

“All donations must be made no later than Dec. 14,” Peterson said.

Last year 13 families with 31 local youngsters received a bit more holiday through the Christmas for Kids project. Some of the more popular items included Star Wars items, dolls, tractors and cars, coloring books, educational toys, makeup, shoes, or boots.  The Adams County Sheriff’s Office received the monetary donations and toys, then transported them to MATURA.

“This is the second year I have worked on this activity and I am excited,” MATURA director Terri O’Grady said. “We may have 80 or more children in need this year.”

Youngsters can
​Shop with a Cop

Adams Community youngsters will get a bit of holiday help from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office.
This Christmas deputies will kick off their inaugural Shop with a Cop.

The purpose of the event is to create positive relationships between youth and officers, Adams County Deputy Ryan Carlson said. Eight youngsters kindergarten through fifth grade will be pared up with a deputy, given a $100 spending limit, and will be taken shopping for age appropriate gifts for immediate family at Dollar General in Corning. After shopping, the children will wrap their gifts at the Corning Fire Department and continue to get to know the deputies. The assigned deputy will bring the gifts to the child’s home to be opened on Christmas Day.

Shop with a Cop will take place at 9:30 a.m. Dec. 17, Carlson said. Parents or legal guardians should sign their children up with Shop with a Cop by returning a form by Dec. 10 to their teacher or school counselor.

Carlson said several law enforcement agencies in surrounding counties use the Shop with a Cop program so Adams County decided to start the program this year.

“Each deputy that Adams County has will be assigned to a child,” Carlson said. “We’ll get to know the kid and help them build a relationship with law enforcement. They can shop for themselves or the immediate family.”

Carlson said the number of children in the program is subject to change depending on Sheriff’s Office staff.

Donations by check for Shop with a Cop are being accepted at the Adams County Sheriff’s Office at 901 Davis Ave. in Corning. Checks are due by Dec. 10 and should be made out to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office. If more funds are raised than needed for this year’s participants, funds will be place in an account for future years.

For more information about Shop with a Cop, call the Sheriff’s Office at (641) 322-4444.

Corning School
​OKs bond vote

At its meeting last week, the Corning Community School District School Board voted to move forward with a bond issue vote that will take place Tuesday, March 7, 2023.

If the bond is approved, the district would be able to move forward with east classroom additions, a safe room upgrade, the addition of a new gymnasium, and a west pod renovation to create new ECEC space. The district would replace the wooden playground structure at the elementary school.

The bond would also provide funds for new fences, dugouts, a press box, concessions, bleachers, and accessibility upgrades at the baseball and softball fields, along with new concessions, restrooms, and fencing at the football field. 

“We are grateful for the engagement of our community as we have worked together to find solutions to our most pressing facility needs,” said Chris Fenster, superintendent. “Thanks to the input and feedback provided, the board has been able to propose a solution that meets both our community’s needs and the goals of our master plan. We look forward to continuing this high level of engagement as we move forward.” 

An approved bond would have a maximum property tax impact of $69 per year ($5.81 per month) on a home with an assessed value of $100,000. Even with an approved bond, the district’s tax rate would be the third lowest it has been over the last 14 years.

The board’s decision was based on the recommendations of a community committee and the results of a recent community-wide survey. Through that survey, 72 percent of residents said they agreed that the district's most urgent facility needs should be addressed now.

The district and board will continue to share more information about the March 7 bond vote in the near future.

DON GROVES/Free Press — Snyder and Associates’ Mike Jorgensen, right, answers questions about planned improvements to Davis Avenue at one of two public forums Nov. 16.

Forums give Davis Avenue details

Corning residents and Main Street businessowners got a closer look at planned improvements to Davis Avenue at two public forums Nov. 16.

About two dozen people attended the morning forum at the Corning Community Center. Dave Sturm and Mike Jorgensen with Snyder and Associates were on hand to seek input and answer questions about the Davis Avenue project. 

Sturm, an engineer out of Snyder and Associates’ Atlantic office, said he had attended several meetings with business owners and city and county officials about the project’s design.

The cost estimate for full reconstruction of Davis Avenue from Fifth Street to Ninth Street is $4,008,785 and includes water mains, lights, sidewalks, street, and storm water drains. Strum said there is currently no storm water control north of Sixth Street. He said the project would be done in phases beginning from Fifth Street to Seventh Street and then from Eighth Street to Ninth Street.

Jorgensen said the proposed work on Davis Avenue is basically an “infrastructure project” that includes wider sidewalks with brick pavers, street and off-street parking, storm water management, new lighting, street paving, planters and hanging baskets, and other features. 

Jorgensen said widening the sidewalks and installing crosswalk nodes will make the downtown safer for pedestrians by shortening street crossings and make the sidewalks Americans with Disabilities Act compliant while still allowing plenty of space for delivery trucks. The design calls for planters at the crosswalk nodes. Parking would remain diagonal on Davis Avenue.

One attendee asked if perpendicular parking would provide more space and be more flexible. Sturm said 90-degree parking isn’t recommended because of safety. With diagonal parking, Sturm said all vehicles will back out in the same direction minimizing the possibility of traffic accidents.

The attendee also asked why no trees were included in the plan. Sturm said that planters and hanging baskets will soften the streetscape whereas trees or other plants within the ground would likely cause other issues such as tree leaves on the sidewalks in autumn or roots growing into the sidewalks.

“Trees are there forever,” Sturm said.

Another attendee asked if there was any plan to save the old bricks beneath the street when it is paved. Sturm said there is no plan to save the bricks but the city could salvage them if it decided to do so. He said the city of Walnut salvaged its bricks but that had not been covered by pavement.

“It would be costly instead of just paving the road,” he said.

The brick inlays and pavers in the existing plan help keep the feel of a brick street, Sturm said.
The parking nodes and raised curbs depicted in the artist’s renderings was another concern, particularly at the Opera House where tour busses need to unload and handicap parking is at a premium. Sturm said the curbs can be dropped to down to street level to allow parking and the nodes are designed to withstand truck traffic. Sturm said snow removal at the nodes is more challenging but said the nodes are angled to help with snow removal and water runoff.

Another attendee asked about the taxpayers’ cost for the project. Sturm said grants are available to the city to begin the project but because of grant filing timelines work on the project would likely begin in 2024.

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SWV honors local veterans

Southwest Valley schools honored local veterans with a Veterans Day ceremony Nov. 11 at the SWV Activity Center.

Along with the posting of the colors by Boy Scout Troop 124 member Derek Morales, guest speaker Air Force veteran Marti Gebbie, thank-yous from elementary, middle school, and high school students, prayer by Corning United Methodist Church Pastor LeAnn Robine, music by the SWV band and choir, a moment of silence led by SWV National Honor Society member Alyssa Birt, and Taps by SWV band members Newt Murren and J.P. Jones, Quilts of Valor member Virginia Perrin presented quilts to six local veterans.

Receiving quilts were David Agnew, Don Gee, Bill Jacobs, Danny Lindberg, Otto Petersen, and Joe Wilson.

David Agnew’s military career started on April 1, 1968, when he was drafted. He went to the Omaha induction center and then to Ft. Lewis, Wash., for his basic training. From there he was sent to Fort Gordon, Ga., for advanced individual Military Police training and then to Fort Hood, Texas, to the 518th Military Police Battalion, Company C. When the soldiers graduated from AIT the instructors called out the “A” and “B” and the first two “Cs” (last name) for Fort Hood, Texas, and everyone else was sent to APO Saigon to replace the 716 MP Battalion. This also included all instructors, headquarter staff, and cooks.

While at basic training Agnew was selected as squad leader and promoted to E2 on graduation. At AIT he was once again selected as squad leader and promoted to E3 on graduation. While at Fort Hood he was promoted to specialist fourth class for 10 months and was one of two sent to headquarters to be interviewed for embassy guard in Brazil or S3 operation officers orderly. The other specialist won by 1 point and had his choice and went to Brazil. Agnew was then assigned to Capt. Joe Bailey as his orderly. Agnew’s unit was dispatched to Chicago in 1968 to be on riot control with the Chicago Police Department during the Democratic Convention. They were there for five days, staying in the metro police warehouse. The next seven months Agnew served as Capt. Baileys assistant at Battalion Headquarters. Capt. Bailey retired seven months later and Agnew was promoted to E5 sergeant and sent back to Company C to take over a squad. While at Fort Hood his company’s specialty was riot control the troops not only went to Chicago but also to Dallas Police Department in riot control and went to Monterrey, Mexico, to train the Mexican army in riot control due to the upcoming 1968 Olympics to be held in Mexico City. When Agnew became sergeant he was sent to riot gas training and was assigned non-commissioned officer in charge of all gasses used in riots. 

While sergeant Agnew and his company were assigned 30-day duty guarding Nike missile sites in Alvarado, Duncanville, Denton, and Terrell, Texas, while a group dismantled the sites. 

Agnew’s quilt was pieced by Chris Nippert and quilted by Lisa Samuelson.

Don Gee served in the Army from August 1988 to August 1996. Gee did his basic training at Fort McClellan, Ala. His military occupational specialty was Military Police and his ending rank was E2. 

His quilt was pieced by Kathy Bozwell and quilted by Val Russell.

Bill Jacobs enlisted in the National Guard in 1970 and his basic training was at Fort Leonard Wood. He attended the Iowa Military Academy at Camp Dodge from 1970 to 1972. In June 1972 he was commissioned as a second lieutenant and did officer ranger training at Fort Benning in 1973. Jacobs served with Company A 168th Infantry in Corning as a rifle platoon leader. He transferred to Company A 133rd Infantry in Dubuque as a weapons platoon leader, then was promoted to Company XO. In 1975 he was promoted to first lieutenant and then transferred back to Villisca as a detachment commander. In 1976 he resigned from the National Guard to pursue farming in the Villisca area.

Jacobs’ quilt was pieced by Diane Walter and quilted by Jackie Orton.

Sgt. Danny G. Lindberg enlisted in the Iowa Army National Guard, Company A of the 168th Infantry Unit in November 1971. Sgt. Lindberg attended basic training at Fort Polk, La. He was an indirect fire infantryman and was assigned to the major platoon in Villisca for 24 years. He was a squad leader and later moved to the fire direction center. He retired from the National Guard in July 1995.

Lindberg’s quilt was pieced by Diane Walter and quilted by Jackie Heckathorn.

Otto Petersen Jr. served in the Army National Guard 867th Engineers in Omaha, Neb., from 1970 to 1976. He attended basic training in Fort Ord, Cali., and AIT in Presidio, Calif. He was an armored vehicle-launched bridge operator and cook. Petersen’s ending rank was an E5 sergeant.

Petersen’s quilt was pieced by Kathy Bozwell and quilted by Lisa Samuelson.

Joe Wilson enlisted in the Navy in 1963 and attended boot camp in San Diego, Calif. He attended Hospital Corp School at Balboa Hospital in San Diego. His first duty station was the Naval Hospital in Charleston, S.C. After a couple months in Charleston he was transferred to the 3rd Marine Division in Camp Lejeune, N.C. He spent the rest of his enlistment with the Marines. During Wilson’s time with the Marines he was part of the task force stationed in the Caribbean twice and Puerto Rico and Panama for training with a task force. 

Wilson served in the Dominican Republic to evacuate Americans during an uprising, was stationed in Cuba for six months, and Vietnam for a year. He was discharged in 1967 with a rank of E5 HM2.

Wilson’s quilt was pieced by Katy Bozwell and quilted by Jackie Orton. 

Forum to focus
​on Davis Ave. design

Corning residents are being asked to share their thoughts and ideas about improvements to Davis Avenue at public forum Nov. 16 at the Corning Community Center.

The Davis Avenue Renewal Committee, which formed in late 2021, has been working with Snyder and Associates to create a conceptual design guided by a 2018 Corning Visioning Study as a basis for improvements to Davis Avenue. The phased plan includes:

• New sidewalks with raised entries,  incorporate brick into the sidewalk;
• Street and off-street parking;
• Storm water management;
• Street lighting, exterior outlets;
• Design for businesses to accommodate consumers outside of their business;
• Street paving;
• Car charging station; 
• Outdoor sound system; and
• Integrated streetscape design.

In 2018, Corning was one of 10 communities selected to participate in Iowa’s Living Roadways Community Visioning program and J.L. Bruce and Co. was hired to lead the community through the visioning. After working with focus groups, seeking input at town meetings, and studying Corning’s needs, community leaders worked to establish goals, capture Corning’s vision, develop a concept plan, and implement it. 

The concept plan contained five major items:
1) Trails and recreation;
2) Natural resources;
3) Sidewalk safety;
4) Signage and wayfinding; and 
5) Davis Avenue streetscape (Main Street) from Ninth to Fifth Street.

Some of the plan has already been implemented. Since then a sidewalk has been installed from Sixth Street and Highway 148 south to the ball fields and from 10th Street and Hull west to the football fields and signage and wayfinding have been installed throughout the community.

The next phase builds on the 2018 visionary study. After seeking requests for proposas were mailed to various firms, the city of Corning hired Snyder and Associates. The Nov. 16 public forum will allow the public and stakeholders to view a conceptual design of Davis Avenue from Ninth street to Fifth. Input from the forum and future meetings will be used to complete the design.

The Davis Avenue Renewal Committee invites all business owners and the public to participate in the public forum at the Corning Community Center. Snyder and Associates will present a conceptual design covering Davis Avenue from Fifth to Ninth street. There will be a plan viewing and discussion from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with Dave Sturm from the Atlantic office of Snyder and Associates. Sturm will give a presentation at 12:30 p.m. and again at 5:30 p.m. during the late afternoon forum from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

“Please come and help us develop a warm and welcoming Davis Avenue,” a press release from the Davis Avenue Renewal Committee says.

Business Halloween Contest winners

Submitted photo — Ken Pangurn with the First Presbyterian Church of Corning presents the church’s mission garden harvest crop to Kay Parrot with MATURA for its food pantry.

Harvest helps MATURA
​fight hunger

Local gardeners are sharing their bounty to help Adams County MATURA Outreach Center fill its food pantry in the fight against hunger.

The First Presbyterian Church of Corning recently harvest sweet potatoes, white potatoes, zucchini, and tomatoes from its garden in the Plant a Row for the Hungry mission.

“We encouraged gardeners in the community to plant an extra row and give extra to MATURA,” First Presbyterian’s Betsy Akin said. “We’re really trying to help our food pantry this year with produce and financial needs.”

Church members harvested the produce the first week of October. With food security a local issue, the church worked with MATURA and community gardeners to help meet MATURA’s food pantry needs. First Presbyterian’s mission and outreach committee organized the mission garden and church members helped with the garden and harvest.

“We had a quite a crew planting and harvesting,” Akin said. “It’s just  a good feeling giving back and helping when we can locally.”

Akin said potatoes that were misshapen and unsuitable for the food bank were used in potato soup and chili dinner at the church.

Although the harvest has ended, hunger knows no season so First Presbyterian will host its drive-through dinner again to support the Adams County MATURA Food Pantry. The dinner, which will feature pork loin, potato casserole, green beans, roll and dessert, will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Nov. 17 at the church.

Freewill donations will be accepted for the dinner. Deliveries are available by calling the First Presbyterian Church at (641) 322-4719 by Nov. 16, in order to schedule delivery. Meals may be picked up on Nov. 17 by entering from 10th Street into the alley on the west side of the First Presbyterian Church, which is on the corner of Grove and 10th. Proceeds of the dinner will go to the Adams County MATURA Food Pantry.

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Legion gives
​to first responders

Corning American Legion Post 117 donated proceeds received from its breakfast held on 9/11 at the Corning Community Center to support first responders.

Post 117 Commander Clark Jones presented $100 to Fire Chief Tony Hardisty at the Corning Fire Department and $100 to Fire Chief Billi Vavra at the Prescott Fire and Rescue. 

“Post 117 supports our first responders and we look forward to future  opportunities to support our community,” Jones said.

The Corning American Legion Post 117 meets on the second Thursday of every month. Veterans interested in joining the American Legion should reach out to Commander Jones or Adjutant Chris Gilbert.

The next American Legion meal planned for the community will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Corning Community Center  at 601 Sixth St.

Post 117 members will serve biscuits and gravy, scrambled eggs, diced potatoes, and drinks

Submitted photo — The Adams County Conservation Board and staff presented the Bill Shipley Memorial Conservation Shop to his family and the residents of Adams County with a dedication ceremony Oct. 2.

Conservation shop dedicated to Bill Shipley

The Adams County Conservation Board and staff dedicated its new shop to long-time board member Bill Shipley on Oct. 2 with the presentation of the Bill Shipley Memorial Conservation Shop.

Shipley joined the Adams County Conservation Board in 2008 and served until his death in 2020. For 12 years he was an advocate for all things conservation and assisted the other board members in building Lake Icaria into what it is today.

Some of the projects that Shipley was involved with were cabin expansion and upgrades, campground expansion, the building of two cottages, and the development and building of the new shop/office building. Shipley verbalized the importance of building this shop so that the board and its staff can not only be able to maintain what it already has but also maintain it as Lake Icaria expands over the next five to 10 years. Adams County.

The Conservation Board and staff presented the Bill Shipley Memorial Conservation Shop to his family and the residents of Adams County.

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Third-parties charging
​for military records

The Iowa County Recorders Association wants to make all veterans aware that recording or requesting military records is always free of charge for a veteran.

In recent weeks it has been reported that a third-party company has been charging veterans to record these documents. 

“Please review the Iowa Code chapter and information regarding submitting copies of DD214 documents below,” The Iowa County Recorders Association said in a press release. “Please remember to always contact your local county recorder or Veteran’s Affairs Office for assistance recording or requesting military records.”

The Adams County Recorder’s office has on permanent record military discharges that have been presented for recording by the veterans themselves. Pursuant to Iowa Code Chapter 331.608(6), notwithstanding section 22.2, subsection 1, such record shall be confidential and shall not be made available for examination or copying except as follows:

• To the person who is the subject of the record, to a member of that person’s immediate family, or to that person’s agent or representative duly authorized in writing.

• To a person requesting to examine or copy a record when the event that resulted in the record being made occurred more than sixty-two (62) years prior to the request. However, the recorder shall redact any social security number included in a record made available pursuant to this paragraph.

• To a person who is a funeral director licensed pursuant to chapter 156 and who has custody of the body of a deceased veteran.

• When otherwise ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction.

• When otherwise required by a department or agency of the federal or state government or a political subdivision. The recorder shall make these records available to the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. The Department of Veteran’s Affairs and its employees shall be subject to the same state and federal confidentiality restrictions and requirements that are imposed on the recorder. 

Veterans are also eligible to submit legal copies of their DD214 to the County Recorder’s office in the county in which they reside. There is no fee to record the DD214. Copies of military discharge records are also free of charge. Veterans and entitled immediate family members may request in-person or complete a military discharge application. All records not recorded in a veteran’s local county can be requested from the National Personnel Records Center.

For more information, contact the Adams County Recorder’s Office at (641) 322-3744.

Laborshed study
​to be conducted

The Adams County Economic Development is partnering with Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) and Iowa Economic Development Authority to complete a Laborshed employment study for the Corning area.

The study will geographically define which communities contribute to Corning’s workforce, regardless of political boundaries. This defined area is called a Laborshed area and is based upon commuting patterns. The purpose of this Laborshed study is to measure the availability and characteristics of Corning area workers. 

Laborshed studies are useful tools for economic development teams and existing or prospective employers to understand the local labor market, make informed expansion and site selection decisions, and maintain/recruit a high quality workforce, Iowa Workforce Development project manager Katie Lippold said. 

“For the success of this study, we are sending letters to randomly selected households asking residents to take a confidential online survey,” Lippold said. “Survey questions will cover topics such as: employment status, current and desired wages, current and desired benefits, education level, and type of occupation, among other things. However, Iowa Workforce Development will not be asking survey takers identifiable information such as: name, social security number, or date of birth. Participation in this workforce study is greatly appreciated regardless of employment status whether you are currently employed, unemployed, a homemaker, retired, etc. Your input is highly valued.”

Following the conclusion of the online surveying efforts, IWD will conduct telephone surveys in the area through a third-party vendor. The survey call originates out of Missouri and the incoming number will have the 573 area code. The same survey questions asked in the online survey will be asked of those who participate in the survey on the phone and again, no identifying information will be collected, Lippold said. All the survey answers collected will be combined and reported together. Individual answers are completely confidential.

Every year Iowa Workforce Development conducts Laborshed studies across the state. The results of each analysis are publicly available online at www.iowalmi.gov/laborshed. For more information about the Laborshed project, contact Katie Lippold at (515) 281-3035.

Burger named
​Overall Best in Show

Shari Burger was named the Overall Best in Show winner in the Southwest Cruisers of Iowa’s Eighth Annual Johnny Carson Car Show Sept. 17 in Central Park in Corning.

Other “Best” winners are:
Best FOMOCO — David Carman
Best MOPAR — Jerry Millikan
Best GM — O’Donnell Brothers
Best “Other” Class — William Morris
Best Motorcycle — Scott Davis
Best Pickup — Harold Spring
Best Street/Rat Rod — Phil Hudson

Class winners are:

Car Classes
Stock
Class A 1954 and Older — Frist, Bert Peckham
Class B 1955-1962— First, Dave O’Donnell; second, Craig Ingalls; third, Jim Chambers
Class C 1963-1969 — First Barry Sellergren; second, Bill Peck; third Roger and Judy Waggener
Class D 1970-1979 — First, Ron Brown; second, Steve Swain; third, Collin Williams
Class E 1980-2000 — First, Sheri Ingalls; second, Mike Bagshaw
Class F 2001-Newer — First, Mick Templeton; second, Mike Gebbie; third, Dale Carmichael

Modified
Class G 1954 and Older — First, Roger Sorenson; second, Michael Swanson
Class H 1955-1962 — First, Mick Templeton
Class I 1963-1969 — First, Glen Hoyt; second, Jim Stanley
Class J 1970-1979 — First, Brent O’Dell
Class K 1980-2000 — First, Jim Tompkins
Class L 2001-Newer — First, Janet Neil

Pickup Classes
Stock
Class M 1972 and Older — First, John McElwain
Class N 1973 and Newer — First, Terry Moore

Modified
Class O 1972 and Older — First, Howard Johnson

Motorcycle Classes
Class S Trikes — First, Joe Gepne

'A Netflix Original'

Homecoming to feature ‘Netflix Original’

Southwest Valley and the Adams Community will celebrate the all-graduate homecoming with the theme “A Netflix Original” Sept. 8-11.

Activities begin at 6:15 p.m. Sept. 8 with a Y-Teen cake auction at the Timberwolves’ football field. The coronation of homecoming royalty will follow at 7 p.m. with a pep rally at 7:30 p.m. The Corning American Theater will present “Where the Crawdads Sing” at 7 p.m.

Teal-Black-Silver Day will be Sept. 9. A Chamber Coffee will be held from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. outside the Lauvstad Center at 710 Davis Ave. for alumni registration.

The Corning Opera House Cultural Center will be open from 10 a.m. to noon Sept. 9-10 for viewing of the painted Brooks Hall backdrop featuring Corning business ads from the 1930s at 800 Davis Ave.

The Corning Center for the Fine Arts will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 9-10 at 706 Davis Ave.

The Corning American Theater will conduct tours with free popcorn from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 9.

R&S Collectibles will be open for self-guided tours from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 9 and from 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 10 at 530 Davis Ave. The cost is $5 per person. There is no charge for children 12 years old and younger.

The homecoming parade sponsored by Southwest Valley Schools will take place at 2 p.m. Sept. 9. Southwest Valley Athletic Boosters will hold a tailgate meal at 6 p.m. at the football field. Kickoff for the homecoming football game with AHSTW will begin at 7 p.m. with the presentation of homecoming royalty at halftime.

Jim Harvey will present a wildlife and travel photograph exhibit from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 9 and from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Corning Center for Fine Arts.

The Corning American Theater will present “Mack & Rita” at 7 p.m. Sept. 9-11 and at 2 p.m. Sept. 11.
Local artisans will share handmade and homegrown specialty items from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 10 during Market in the Park in Central Park.

SWV will conduct a guided tour at 10 a.m. Sept. 10 in the high school auditorium at 904 Eighth St.
The French Icarian Village will conduct tours from 10 a.m. to noon Sept. 10 at 2349 220th St. east of Corning.

The Johnny Carson Birthplace will conduct tours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 10 at 500 13th St. Suggested donations are $10.

The all-graduate social will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 10 at Corning Elementary School followed by the annual all-graduate banquet and program at 6 p.m. Reservations are $25 per person for the meal and program.

Community churches will hold services Sept. 11. Times and addresses are available at adamcountyiowa.com on the community tab.

​SWV welcomes
​seven new employees

Southwest Valley School District started the new school year with seven new employees at its schools.

The new employees are Trista Bryant, sixth-grade English language arts; Katelyn Stanley, sixth- and eighth-grade social studies; Holly Bohn, paraeducator; Dorothy Knox, Peggy Clark, and Donna Edwards, food services; and Jacob Roberts, custodian.

Bryant was born and raised in a large family just outside of Creston. After graduating from Creston High School, she attended the University of Iowa and Scott Community College where she received her Medical Laboratory Technology degree. “After my son was born my son, I decided to follow my heart and become a teacher,” she said. “I received my bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Iowa Wesleyan College and then my master’s in Reading Education from Western Illinois University. My teaching career began in 2004 at Muscatine Community School District, where I taught for 14 years. Throughout my career, I taught Reading Recovery, Title One reading and math, sixth- and seventh-grade ELA. I decided to come back home to Creston to help my parents and be closer to family.” 

Stanley grew up on a farm south of Truro. She graduated from Interstate 35 High School. “I received my Associates of Arts Degree from Des Moines Area Community College, and am currently finishing my last year of my bachelor's degree in 5-12 social studies from Buena Vista University,” she said. “I have been in a variety of classrooms for three school years. I live in Griswold with my boyfriend and our two dogs. I love the outdoors, visiting family, and boating with family and friends.”

 Bohn was born in Loveland, Colo., and moved to Bedford, Iowa, in middle school. “I have lived in Southwest Iowa for most of my life,” she said. “I'm married and have two adorable kids, six amazing bonus kids/adults, four beautiful grandchildren with another on the way, our Shepsky Scout and two cats, Rosie and Skittles. I'm starting my first year (2022) as a high school paraeducator.”

Knox is from Clearfield, Iowa, and is married to Stan Knox. “I’ve been in the food service industry for 25 years,” she said. “I have three sons and nine grandchildren. Some of my hobbies include gardening, camping, sewing, and clowning around. I enjoy spending time with family and friends.”
Clark’s family includes Jen, Donald and Wyatt Shires. Her hobbies include watching Wyatt play ball, going to the races on Saturday nights, and reading books.

Edwards has a daughter and two sons. Wendy is a social worker in Minneapolis, Nick works as project lead engineer for Agri Careers in Okoboji, and Adam is a junior studying kinesiology at Iowa State. Her hobbies are reading and thrifting. “I formally worked at Dollar General for 11 years,” she said. 

Roberts graduated in Corning in 2022 and is currently studying at Southwestern Community College to earn a degree in psychology. “I am a custodian at the Corning Elementary,” he said. “It is so much fun getting to know the kids and working with them every day.

COHCC to host folk tribute

Singer/songwriter Carol Montag will be present a tribute concert to Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell, and Judy Collins at 7 p.m. Aug. 26 at the Corning Opera House Cultural Center.

Julie Gammack, former Des Moines Register columnist said, “Upon hearing her music, I was stunned and couldn’t wait to write about Carol. Once I even rented a bus and took a bunch of Des Moines Register reporters and editors to hear Carol sing. She has a true gift! Powerful, beautiful, harmonic, soulful, real. I’d match her voice and ability to engage an audience with any female vocalist anywhere.” 

Montag was also influenced by John Denver, Julie Andrews, and James Taylor. She has recorded six CDs. She has opened for or shared the stage with Arlo Guthrie, Greg Brown, John Gorka, and Three Dog Night to name a few. Montag was commissioned to write music for Ballet Iowa and Ballet LaCrosse and performed live with both. She will be paying tribute to the female folk legends of the ’60s and ’70s on acoustic guitar and piano. Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell, and Judy Collins are famous for such hits as “Both Sides Now,” “Blowin’ in the Wind,” “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,” and many more.

This tribute concert is sponsored by Finish Line Trophies, Grundman Insurance, Primrose Restaurant, Precision Inc., and Stalker Chevrolet. Corning Opera House is located at 800 Davis Ave. in downtown historic Corning. 

The Opera House will host OJ Fargo at 1 p.m. Sept. 2 for First Friday Friends with a special program titled “A Visit from a Civil War Soldier.” There is a small fee to attend, which includes refreshments.
After an overview of Iowa’s involvement in the Civil War, the audience will be introduced to a returning Civil War soldier and his war experiences. The audience is encouraged to ask questions and engage in a dialogue with the “soldier” who dresses in full Union Army regalia. Fargo will bring a full roster of all men who served in and from Iowa in the Civil War to enable the participants to check for ancestors who served. 

Fargo has completed more than 100 history presentations throughout the state for Humanities Iowa. In addition, he is the author of three books and editor of two CD-ROMs containing 320,000 pages of searchable text and 10,000 Civil War pictures.

Fargo is a retired social studies consultant and director of support services. He became a reenactor in 1913 because of his love of history and the opportunity to interact with others. Fargo is also the president of the Army of the Southwest, a group of Civil War reenactors headquartered in Waukee.

For more information about this show and upcoming events such as a Visit From a Civil War Soldier on Sept. 2 and Nebraska Showdown on Sept. 17 visit www.CorningOperaHouse.com or follow the Opera House Facebook page or Instagram account.

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Stielows leave
​lasting legacy

Editor’s note: The following is a tribute to Jo Ann and Percy Stielow written by Corning alumni.

As reported in a prior Free Press Jo Ann and Percy Stielow, beloved members of the Corning community, died two days apart after recent illnesses.

Percy and Jo Ann Stielow’s impact was felt far and wide throughout Corning, Adams County, and Southwest Iowa. Jo Ann had an influential and distinguished career as a nurse and nursing instructor as did Percy as a coach, teacher, athletic director, and business owner.

Respected, Empathetic, Dedicated. Relationships, Attitude, Inspiring, Determined, Emotional, Right, and Service are just a few words that best describe Jo Ann and Percy in their 59 years of marriage and their 52 years in the Corning community.

The attentive reader will note that the words listed above spell Red Raiders, the beloved athletic nickname of the athletic programs that Percy and JoAnn so embraced in their many years as Corning residents. But the Stielows’ impact went well beyond the court and the classroom.

Percy and Jo Ann earned the respect of the community by their hard-working and honest approach to everyone and everything. Jo Ann and Percy were the epitome of empathy, driven by the loss of two infant children and son Mike, born with developmental abilities.

Despite these challenges, Mike thrived in Corning with support from his parents and younger sister Kim. In his senior year of high school, many long-time Corning sports fans will recall Mike draining a long jump shot on Senior Night, leaving no dry eye in the gym.

Their dedication to service was always on display by the long hours of Jo Ann’s nursing career and Percy’s coaching and teaching.

Jo Ann was active in the local community throughout her life. She served 10 years with the American Cancer Society, supporting Adams County residents diagnosed with cancer. Jo Ann also served on the Adams County Tourism Board and was a member of the Adams County Public Nursing Agency. Jo Ann’s passion for service was also evident in her association with several agencies that supported individuals with developmental disabilities.

One of her most notable involvements was with St Patrick’s Catholic Church where she served as a long-term member of the Altar Society. Jo Ann also co-led the funeral committee where she was known for her caring touch to others during difficult times.

Jo Ann and Percy always did what was right, serving as great role models for those they touched. Both had a gentle way of redirecting others to be the best version of themselves. Countless athletes and students have poignant examples of being held to a high standard for performance on the court and in the classroom.

The Stielows approached every problem with a great attitude, inspiring athletes, health care providers, and students to strive for excellence.

Arriving in Corning in the fall of 1970 with their two young children, Mike and Kim, Percy taught and coached in Coleridge, Neb., after a successful playing career at Yankton College. Jo Ann became a nurse at Rosary Hospital and later an instructor at Southwestern Community College for 28 years.
Hired to be a math teacher, head basketball coach, and defensive coordinator for football, Percy was instrumental in launching a decade of unparalleled athletic success for Corning.

Percy inherited a team that went 1-17 the year before but immediately produced a winner in 1971, going 11-9 in the first year. Dan Jones, a senior on Percy’s first team, provided insight on the turnaround.

“The teaching of fundamentals was noticeable right away,” Jones said. “No yelling or screaming, just patient but specific instruction, we knew he was going to be successful.”

Percy’s second team in 1972 provided a preview into the success that was to follow for the Red Raiders in the next 16 years, winning the Tall Corn Conference and making sub-state, narrowly losing to Manson 64 to 60.

Dave Kragel was a standout on that team and went on to become a highly successful coach in his own right and a Junior College All-American at SWCC. Kragel, a two-year starter and team MVP at Oklahoma State noted that “Percy put Corning basketball on the map.” Kragel added, “but my most enjoyable memory of Percy and Jo Ann was spending time reminiscing about the great times we had together.”

Stielow was also a major influence on the football program, coaching a defense that allowed only 32 points in 1971, winning the Class 2A state championship. Throughout the ’70s and early ’80s, Stielow’s defenses were known as tough and talented, producing All-Big Eight standout Shamus McDonough, who excelled as a defensive tackle at Iowa State from 1978 to 1982.

Over the next decade, Corning dominated high school basketball in Southwest Iowa. In a 10-year period, Stielow’s teams went 138-19, making three straight appearances in the state basketball tournament. In 16 years as head coach, Percy’s teams produced a record of 345 wins and only 126 losses.

In 1997, Stielow was inducted into the Iowa High School Athletic Association Basketball Hall of Fame, joining baseball and wrestling coach John Harris as the only two Corning coaches to receive such an honor. In 2016, Stielow Court was named in his honor at a ceremony attended by nearly 100 of his former players.

Percy’s teams played a fast-paced, aggressive style that produced high-scoring teams that often-overwhelmed opponents. Conditioning was an integral part of Percy’s coaching philosophy. “Circle Drill” at the end of every practice left his teams too exhausted to do anything but eat and go to bed after practice.

Two teams, 1975 and 1978, had undefeated regular seasons. Stielow also coached several all-state players, including two Division 1 standouts, rare for a small rural school district. Three of his athletes are in the Iowa High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

Percy took great pride in the skill level of his teams. Several of his teams averaged nearly 90 points per game. One of his favorite stories, recalled again just a few weeks before his death, regarded the 1978 team. After a blowout win in sub-state at the Council Bluffs Fieldhouse, the coach of Council Bluffs Abraham Lincoln High School grabbed him at the door and said, “the best team I have seen all season.” High praise from a large school coach of a team that competed in the Omaha Metro conference. WHO legendary broadcaster Jim Zabel had similar comments while calling the Corning-Iowa City Regina first-round state tournament game that same year.

The secret of Corning’s success during Stielow’s career was off-season work. It was not unusual to drive by Kraft Junior High throughout the summer and see highly competitive pickup games organized by his players. Whether you were a starter or reserve, playing for Percy was a positive experience.

Three-year starter and All-Stater Doug Wilson noted that all his players respected him. “He never yelled at me not once. He commanded respect and all he had to do was look at me and you knew you messed up.”

Jeff Peterson, class of 1980, commented that “Stielow’s players worked hard because they wanted to please him and earn his approval by hard work and dedication.”

Bruce Waterbury added, “We formed relationships in that schoolyard that have lasted a lifetime.”

George Brandon, a senior on the undefeated ’78 teams, had a unique experience under Stielow. Brandon had the fortune of coaching under Stielow during the 1986 season. Brandon noted that “from going to playing for someone you idolized and respected to sitting next to him during games was an honor and a wonderful memory I’ll never forget. He was a looming and intimidating figure for many of his students and players, but he had humility, kindness, and warmth that wasn’t completely evident until you got close to him and got to know him on a personal level.”

As talented as Percy was as a coach, he also had his master’s degree in mathematics and brought the same level of dedication and influence as a teacher. His daughter Kim shared “I’ve heard so many wonderful comments over the years on what an impact he had on their high school years. Many of the students were former players, however, heard that from many former students as well. In fact, several former students credited him for their chosen careers.”

A nurse’s career, while largely shielded from the public eye, is of course no less important than that of a coach. Jo Ann taught nursing at SWCC for 28 years and her influence as an educator was highly revered.

Phil Casey, a long-time close friend of Percy and Jo Ann recently told a story that illustrated the influence Jo Ann had on those she touched through her work in health care. Casey noted that “I visited many hospitals across Southwest Iowa because of my wife’s illness. Everywhere I visited someone would know Jo Ann and make a comment about the impact she made on their development. She was a legend in her own right.”

Jo Ann’s daughter Kim echoed Casey’s comments and went on to say, “these past months have been an opportunity to hear and witness firsthand the breadth of the lives she touched. That is a blessing I’ll take with me. When I think about that combined with Dad’s career, that made them quite a duo. And for them to pass so close together, it seemed to put an exclamation point on their story.”

A lifetime of respect, empathy, dedication, relationships, positive attitude, inspiration, determination, passionate emotion, always doing what was right, and service to others mark the legacy of Jo Ann and Percy Stielow. The Corning community and the Red Raider faithful will forever remain grateful for their 52 years in Corning.

Cattlemen tour Nebraska operations

Thirty Adams County Cattlemen’s Association members recently toured western Nebraska to learn more about cattle production and how it could benefit their operations.

Ryan Shuey, Adams County Cattlemen’s Association member and one of the tour organizers, said the educational opportunity gave members a look at the different aspects of the beef industry as well as dairy production, Case IH manufacturing, and meat animal research.

The group’s first stop was Milk Unlimited Dairy Farm south of Atlantic, Iowa, Shuey said.

“Kelly Cunningham is the owner,” Shuey said. “He went over his operation and the use of robotics.”

Shuey said the size of Milk Unlimited’s operation was impressive. Cattlemen learned about the dairy’s crossbreeding program and how it oversees 3,500 head of cattle.

“They milk three times a day and they just never stop,” Shuey said. “Almost all of his milk went to cheese production. The use of crossbreeding has helped his production immensely.”

Milk Unlimited also sees about 70 calves a week in its maternity pen. With a monthly feed bill of about $1 million and an electricity bill of about $30,000 efficiency, especially in feeding, is key to the dairy’s success. The use of robotics makes it possible for Milk Unlimited to keep up production while dealing with a labor shortage.

From there the group toured Adams Land and Cattle Company in Broken Bow, Neb., the largest feedlot in Nebraska. Adams Land and Cattle has 130,000 head of cattle and works with more than 500 sale barns, Shuey said. His said the size of the operation was immense.

“It literally took two and a half hours to drive across the feed yard,” Shuey said.

The operation slaughters about 5,000 head of cattle a week, delivering them to a packing facility about 45 minutes south of there every day.

“They raise almost all their own feed,” Shuey said. “Everyone was amazed at how clean the facility was, and the same with the dairy. Both operations are very concerned about their environment. With that many cattle they’re loss is less than 1 percent, very healthy cattle.”

Following an evening in Grand Island at Kinkaider Brewing Company in Grand Island, the group visited the Case IH Axial-Flow combine factory. Case IH makes 16 combines a day at its 14-acre factory there. Shuey said about 600 of the $600,000 combines have been completed and another 600 are waiting on parts.

“Their biggest struggle was labor,” Shuey said.

The next stop for the group was the 45,000-acre U.S. Meat Animal Research Center. The Navy took control of the land during World War II to create the Naval Ammunition Depot. 

“More than 800 bunkers that was used for ammunition storage that have now been decommissioned,” Shuey said.

USMARC has about 120 scientists and about 20 veterinarians who conduction research on meat animals for food safety, vaccine usage, and feed efficiency while overseeing 8,000 cows, a 6,000 head feedlot, 2,000 pigs, and another 2,000 sheep, Shuey said. The scientists generally publish 100 to 150 research articles a year.

Before returning to Adams County, the cattlemen visited Johnny’s Café in Omaha. The 100-year-old restaurant has been in the same family since it opened next to the Omaha Stockyards. The bar there was featured in the movie “About Schmidt,” Shuey said.

“When you go in that restaurant it’s like stepping back in time,” he said.

The tour was paid for by the Adams County Cattlemen’s Association, Shuey said, and he was pleased with the turnout. 

“I was very happy,” he said. “My goal was 30 to 40 people.”

The Adams County Cattlemen’s Association hopes to make similar educational tours an annual event.

Main Street America
​rep visits Corning

On July 25, Main Street Corning had the privilege of hosting Main Street America’s senior director of coordinating programs Kathy La Plante.

The purpose of La Plante’s visit was to explore the operations of Main Street Corning, one of 54 Main Street Programs in Iowa, and to ascertain what assistance the Corning program could use from the Iowa’s state program.

The day began with a presentation on the history and impact of the Main Street program in Corning given by past Main Street Corning director Raelynne Risser. After the presentation, La Plante was given a driving tour during which she visited CHI Health Mercy Corning, Southwest Valley Schools, the Spring Lake Subdivision, and the Corning Winery. She was then taken on a walking tour of the downtown district, stopping at businesses that have received various awards and grants through the Main Street program. During the tour she met with many community members and toured many up and coming projects in the district.

The group visited the upper story of one business and discussed how he is using his Upper Story Housing Grant to help ease some of the housing shortage, as well as potential development of 729 Davis. La Plante toured the historic Corning Opera House with De Heaton and discussed the renovation projects that have taken place. Cindy Roberts of Real Deals was able to give insiders perspective on the retail side of the district, and Neil Rizos, who described the artist-in-residence program and his move to Corning. Several community members met La Plante for lunch at Primrose, where she was able to view the results of Primrose’s 2019 Challenge Grant.

“It was exciting to host Kathy for a Main Street visit,” said Joslynn Moore, Main Street Corning’s interim director. “Kathy had lots of great feedback including saying ‘[Primrose] was the best meal I’ve eaten in eight days.’” 

Following lunch, La Plante met with members of City Council and the Board of Supervisors to discuss their partnership with the program and sharing success stories of partnership between the entities. The day concluded with a presentation from La Plante attended by members of Main Street Corning’s boards and committees. Corning has been part of the Main Street program for over 30 years, which has been vital to the community, Corning Mayor Jan Leonard said.

“Our local Main Street Program has been and remains instrumental in the revitalization of our historic Main Street district,” Leonard said. “Not only the day-to-day promotions and events that attract people to Corning to shop, eat, and play but also the long-term planning and vision for Corning’s Main Street to keep us ahead of the curve. They engage all organizations in active volunteer events to keep all age groups involved and creative."

Smokin Suckers overall BBQ champion

Smokin Suckers held onto its overall champion title in the Battle of the BBQ July 22-23 at the Adams County Fairgrounds. 

Hardwood BBQ was reserve champion. Third place went to Brian’s Beef and fourth place went to Sweet Smokin Jones.

The Battle of the BBQ 2022 had 17 entries for the cook-off competition.

“Friday night started off hot, with the People’s Choice Wing Contest. Plenty of wings were cooked for the public and voting results ousted the several years running previous champion, The Wingmen, by a margin of one vote,” Main Street Corning executive director Marti Gebbie said. 

Entertainment was provided by local DJ Randy Cooper and his wife Holly. 

“It was difficult to tell whether it was the radio or the band playing when Blacktop took over the stage. They played right up until midnight to those who were brave enough to stick it out in heat of the night,” Gebbie said. “The cookers continued smoking their meat through the night for turn-ins starting at 10 a.m.”

The brisket and port butt were delivered to the lunch crew who served a free barbecue lunch meal to those who returned with their wristbands from the night before and to anyone who wanted to purchase barbecue sandwich. 

“By 2 p.m., the chair of the BBQ Committee, Ben Mullen, was ready to announce who the winners were of all their effort from the night before,” Gebbie said. “With over $6,000 in cash and awards to give out, the BBQ competitors were anxiously awaiting the results given to them by the judges.”

Results from the Battle of the BBQ are:
People’s Choice Wings — First, Budz Smokin; second, The Wingmen
Dessert — First, Bucknutz BBQ; second, Bucknutz BBQ; third, Smokin Suckers; fourth, Smokin Double R; fifth, Pit Bros BBQ
Chicken — First, Hardwood BBQ; second, Archi's BBQ; third, Smokin Double R; fourth, Sweet Smokin Jones; fifth, Pit Bros BBQ; sixth Brian's Beef
Ribs — First, Smokin Double R; second, Sweet Smokin Jones; third, Smokin Suckers; fourth, Smith BBQ; fifth, Archi's BBQ; sixth, Bucknutz BBQ
Brisket — First, Brian's Beef; second, Smokin Suckers; third, Smoking Double R; fourth, Sweet Smokin Jones; fifth, Primitive Smoke; sixth, Bucknutz BBQ
Pork Butt — First, Polings BBQ; second, Ol Smokey; third, Brian's Beef; fourth, Pit Bros BBQ; fifth, Budz Smokin; sixth, Primitive Smoke

Submitted photo — Southwest Valley High School seniors and carpentry class students Gabe Fuller and Norah Lund give thumbs up in front of the shelves they built and helped install at Adams County MATURA Outreach Center in Corning.

Partnership brings
​new shelves to MATURA

A collaboration between a local coffee group and Southwest Valley High School carpentry students has brought new shelving options to Adams County MATURA Outreach Center in Corning.

“I am so excited to have new shelves,” MATURA director Teri O’Grady said. “We will be able to better display and have more items that Adams County residents want and need.”

The need for new shelving was expressed by Brian Peterson of Norvell’s People in Need Coffee Group while he was delivering items to MATURA. The coffee group wasn’t able to find any used shelving to donate and the group didn’t want to construct the shelves but the coffee group thought there might be a group at Southwest Valley Schools that would be interested. 

“I contacted Blake Anderson, SWV agriculture carpentry instructor, to see if they would interested in constructing the shelves,” Peterson said.

After meeting with O’Grady to better understand MATURA’s shelving needs, Anderson said “the class was excited to be a part of the project.”

“The entire carpentry class focused their time during the last couple of months of the school year to construct the shelves, which included design and construction,” Anderson said.

Norah Lund and Gabe Fuller, SWV seniors in the carpentry class, said “It was a lot of fun to make the shelves knowing we were meeting a need for MATURA because they help so many people in Adams County.”

O’Grady said she feels fortunate to serve a community where partnerships make it possible to better help those in need.

“I am so thankful to work for MATURA in Adams County where so many different people and groups donate time, labor, and material goods to help us better serve those in need throughout Adams County,” she said.

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Coaching icon Jim Redel passes away

Former players recall his impact

Former Corning High School teacher and coach Jim Redel passed away on June 25 in Cedar Rapids after a short illness. He was 90 and had resided in Anamosa for many years. Redel taught and coached at CHS from 1969 to1974, and was known for his success coaching football and track at the school. He had also taught and coached at Calmar, Fayette, Cresco, West Union, and Forest City where he coached former Gov. Terry Branstad.

Redel revived the Corning football program. The Red Raider program had been struggling in the Hawkeye 7 Conference before he arrived. The Hawkeye 7 was comprised of schools much larger than Corning, but the school joined the Tall Corn Conference in Redel’s second year. Redel’s leadership and the conference change led to instant success with his football squads going 37-9 over his 5 years at the helm. The individual seasons went 5-5, 8-1, 9-0, 7-2, and 8-1.

The 1971 undefeated team was named the Class 2A state champions by The Des Moines Register, the year before the state playoffs started. That 1971 team celebrated its 50th anniversary last September which Coach Redel was able to attend. The celebration included being part of the homecoming parade with a reception at The Winery in Corning.

The team was also introduced at halftime of the Southwest Valley homecoming scrimmage with coach and player introductions and a recap of that magical season to an appreciative crowd. “It was fantastic,” Redel said about the homecoming celebration. “I don’t know how it could have been any better.”

Master psychologist and innovator

Redel was a motivator. People wanted to play for him and to give their best to not let their coaches and fellow players down. Former player Beech Turner recalled that “Coach had the knack of identifying your potential and motivating you to reach it. He was great at plugging you in where you fit best to use your talents and help the team.”

Redel was an innovator too. He instituted before-school weight training which was fairly novel at the time. With a few exceptions, he used a platoon approach by having separate players on offense and defense, bringing fresher players into the game after each change of possession.

Redel did not believe in scrimmaging much during the season, wanting players healthy and itching to be physical for games on Friday nights. Towards the end of the 1970 season, his players begged to have the first team offense scrimmage the first team defense. When the coach relented, afterwards players on both sides of the ball commented that that was the best team they had faced all year.

Redel also introduced a “unity circle” formation for calisthenics before practices and games with leaders in the middle. He also introduced the “standing huddle” with the quarterback facing teammates which is the rule in today’s game. He also acquired new uniforms including bright, all-red versions for home games and helmet stickers awarded for stellar play.

Keeping with the red theme, and the “Go Big Red” cheers, his players recalled that Redel would periodically deliver pre-game pep-talks featuring the character “Big Red” as the hero. He would always end the story with the announcement to the team that “Big Red is a comin,’” resulting in the team exploding with deafening enthusiasm as it headed to the field.

Redel also wasn’t adverse to messing with an opponent psychologically. Former player, Eric Turner recalled a favorite memory about certain special home games. “Coach Redel had our team warm-up at the baseball field across town from the fairgrounds, leaving the opposing team to warm up alone on the football field without the typical pre-game ritual of sizing up one’s competition. Our off-site warm up was in total silence. When finished, we were bussed to the fairgrounds immediately before kickoff, and when we ran onto the field, the team and the crowd went nuts. It gave us an instant advantage.”

Positive impact on the community

With the almost immediate success of Redel’s teams, the Corning community rallied around and followed them enthusiastically. In a 2018 Corning Alumni News article, Coach Redel reflected on the other important elements that led to success. “In Corning, the 1970s were truly unreal. It was not just an athletic thing, but it was the entire Corning community getting on board.” He also paid tribute to his assistant coaches, the cheerleaders, and school district leadership that helped make this success possible.

Fans turned out in droves for home games with many traveling to road games too. The Adams County Free Press provided extensive coverage and even published a special edition about the team during Redel’s first year. In the latter stages of the 1970 season, Corning hosted a Top 10 game against Lenox, and the turnout was so large that fans not only filled the stands but the overflow completely ringed the field.

Downtown businesses also supported the football program by allowing the Corning cheerleaders to decorate their windows up and down Main Street before games. There could be no doubt that a game was imminent by driving up and down the street.

“I taught in several schools and the Corning cheerleaders were head and shoulders above the rest,” Redel said in the article. “They went far beyond just being cheerleaders. Game day was really special. The halls were decorated and each team member had something special on his locker — a note, a wish or a trinket — something that said ‘play well.’ Pep assemblies really brought everyone together, and they created a winning attitude within the school.”

Golden age of Corning athletics

When Redel came to Corning in 1969, wrestling coach John Harris had already created one of the strongest wrestling programs in the state, and coupled with Coach Percy Stielow’s hiring a year later, the school and the community subsequently enjoyed a decade of unprecedented multi-sport success.

While Redel is mostly known for his football success at Corning, his track teams were the best in Southwest Iowa at the time, regularly winning invitational, conference and district meets. His 1972 team finished runner-up at the state meet. Redel’s track program started what was to be several years of track dominance. All this excellence was initially achieved without a track and field facility. CHS runners used a paved street adjacent to the Adams County Fairgrounds to practice on with the Corning track program affectionately known as the John Street Track Club.

Redel’s football teams won or shared the Tall Corn Conference championship every year he coached in the league. During the 1973-1974 school year, Redel’s final year at Corning, the school won the conference championship in every sport it participated, an unprecedented accomplishment that was also featured in The Des Moines Register.

Leaving a lasting legacy

But Redel’s legacy during his short time in Corning involved more than wins and losses. The biggest component of Redel’s lasting legacy in Corning is the impact he had on his former players, many of which felt he changed their lives for the better. Several of them gathered at Redel’s recent Celebration of Life service in Anamosa, and shared their thoughts on what Coach Redel meant to them.

“Coach was genuine,” remembered former player Tony Mack. “He cared about you, and you trusted him and wanted to give your best.” Redel loved to tell the story about Mack, who started at guard in the coach’s last season at the school. Tony had shoulder problems, and had to wear a brace on his bad shoulder the season before which eventually required off-season surgery.

During a big game the next year, Mack injured his other shoulder and had to leave the field. He got his dad’s attention in the stands and had him run home and get his shoulder brace so he could continue to play. Redel said Mack reflected the “never give up” spirit of the team.

Son and former player Denny Redel reflected that his dad preached winning the fourth quarter and wearing the opponent down. “We ran a lot of wind sprints during practice, and we were in better shape. It helped us win some big games when we scored late.” 

“Our mantra was ‘when the going gets tough, the tough get going,’” said former player Scott Parcher. “He preached preparation and mental toughness.” 

Son and former player Gary Redel recalled, “Dad was competitive about everything he did whether it was coaching high school sports, playing golf or playing bridge. He liked to win, but whether you won or lost he expected your best effort in everything you did in life.“

“Coach made everybody feel a part of the team,” said former player Dan Jones. “He found ways to help you succeed. He influenced me to play college ball and then become a coach and make it my life’s work.”

Former player Dave Walter also felt Redel’s influence by eventually becoming Corning’s head football coach in the early 2000s. “Coach had a big impact on me and I used several of his ideas including the unity circle during warmups. He was a huge influence.”

“Coach Redel would have loved to see the turnout of his former players at his memorial service,” Beech Turner commented. “Especially all the love and appreciation we have for one another. It was a great way to honor him and he would have been pleased.”

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Memories in the Making

Memories in the Making is the theme for the 2022 Adams County Fair, which will take place July 8-12.

Pre-fair activities will get under way at 8:30 a.m. July 7 with static exhibit and communication judging for the annual 4-H/FFA Fair. Preparation will continue at 6 p.m. with fairgrounds clean up and booth set up.

Events kick off at 9 a.m. July 8 with the horse show. At 3 p.m., the Corning Gun Club will present a Safety Education in Shooting Sports exhibition. The fair parade will take place at 5 p.m. followed by the coronation of the Adams County Fair Queen, Little Mr. Adams County, and Little Miss Adams County. Fair Queen candidates are Ally Birt, Emily Lauer, Joslyn Moore, Kayla Mitchell, Madison Gotto, Megan Ramsey, and Natalie Baker. Nora Paul is the Adams County Princess candidate and Avery Amdor and Bristol Bates are the Little Miss Adams County candidates. The evening concludes with Steven Bankey and The Flatlanders in concert at 7 p.m.

July 9 activities begin at 6 a.m. with the swine weigh-in and livestock weight-in from 7 a.m. to noon. Pet owners can take part in the Fun Dog Show at 9 a.m. Draft horse games and pull will take place at 10 a.m. then registration opens for a cornhole tournament at 11:30 a.m. with the tournament at noon. A table setting contest gets under way at 2 p.m. The Bill Riley Talent Show is at 3 p.m. Following the evening’s races at the Adams County Speedway, Finding Dixie will provide live music.

July 10 events begin at 7:30 a.m. with both the poultry and broiler show and registration for the 5K Color Run, which begins at 8 a.m. The sheep and market goat show begins at 8:30 a.m. or at the conclusion of the poultry and broiler show. A fair fundraiser breakfast will be held at 9 a.m. as will the Fun Pet Show. The Poultry Skillathon will be at 1 p.m. A magic show will take place at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The baby contest will be at 3 p.m. with family fair tours at 3:30 p.m. A Quilts of Valor presentation is set for 5 p.m. Capping the evening will be Dairyland Donkey Ball at 7.

Senior Day will be from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 11 with bingo, a cookie contest, and more. The swine show will also begin at 7 a.m. A tractor ride and show will begin at 8 a.m. The rabbit and small pet show will begin at 11 a.m. or at the conclusion of the swine show. Antique Day will take place from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. with the Bucket of Junk Contest at 4:30 p.m. Pedal pull registration will begin at 4:30 p.m. as well with both the pedal pull and Rural Development barbecue at 5 p.m. The 4-H wardrobe fashion show, 4-H Foundation awards, and State Fair awards will take place at 6 p.m. then at 7 p.m. the T&C Rodeo will get under way.

The 4-H Endowment fundraiser breakfast will take place at 7 a.m. July 11. The dairy show will begin at 8 a.m. followed by the beef show at 9 a.m. A dog show will take place at 1 p.m. The Ag Expo will be held from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. with Iowa State University Adams County Extension and Outreach’s Reach the Red with Cy. Non-sale livestock will be released at 2 p.m. A tall corn contest sponsored by POET will be held at 4 p.m. followed by a barbecue sponsored by the Adams County Fair Board. The Bottle Buckaroo Show will begin at 5 p.m. then at 6 p.m. the livestock sale will get under way.
Post-fair activities include a fairgrounds cleanup at 8 a.m. and the release of static exhibits from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

At 9 a.m. July 16, a swine carcass class learning opportunity and results will take place at the Adams County Extension office followed by a locker walk-through at Corning Meat Processing.

Variety of July 4
​events planned

The Adams Community will be host to a variety of Independence Day weekend festivities July 1-4.

Events will get under way July 1 with an Adams Community Chamber Coffee and First Friday BBQ in Corning. 

The Chamber Coffee will welcome Corning Specialty Care director Craig Namanny. The coffee will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Corning Specialty Care at 1614 Northgate Drive. Light refreshments will be served.

From 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 1, Adams County Farm Bureau and Farm Bureau Financial Services Nick Wetzel will host the July 1 First Friday BBQ at Central Park in Corning. 

The free meal will include brisket, macaroni, carrots, apple crumble, and water.

Following the meal, Corning Opera House First Friday Friends will present Prehistoric Adams County by Rick Friday at 1 p.m. July 1. 

Friday will show examples of Native American culture and stone tool technology used though the Paleoindian Period, Mammoth Hunters (11,500-7,500 BC), Archaic Period, Nomadic Hunter/Gatherers (7,500-800 BC), and Woodland Period, Agriculturalist (800 BC–1,200 AD). There will be a hands-on tool demonstration and several examples of the tools.

Following the presentation, light refreshments will be served. Friday is an enthusiast of anthropology and archaeology and a participant in the archaeological excavation of the Great Oasis Maxwell Site in 2001. 

More information about First Friday Friends events, live entertainment, and venue rentals can be found at www.CorningOperaHouse.com or by calling (641) 418-8037.

The Annual 4th of July Celebration at Lake Icaria will take place July 2.

The celebration will start off with a children’s fishing contest for ages 3-12 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the marina. Lunch will be at 11:30 a.m., sponsored by the Adams County Conservation Board.
On July 3, youngsters aged 3-12 can hunt for treasure on the beach starting at 7 p.m. Fireworks will commence around 10 p.m. July 3 at Lake Icaria.

The 62nd Annual Flight Breakfast will be held from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. July 4 at Corning Municipal Airport. The breakfast will include pancakes, sausage, eggs, and beverages. Attendees can watch planes touch down and take off, visit with the Corning Fire Department, and the Air Evac Lifeteam out of Clarinda. Freewill donations will support the Chamber of Commerce in advancing the overall business, cultural, and civic welfare of Adams County.

Submitted photo — Southwest Iowa Gravel Grinder racers Kevin O’Conner of Clive, Aaron Wrabek of Windsor Heights, Joseph Aulwes of Bondurant, and Ryan Peckham of Des Moines cruise into Corning in last year’s Gravel Grinder.

Live music to greet
​Gravel Grinder

The sixth annual Southwest Iowa Gravel Grinder will make its return to Corning but before the race begins riders will be welcomed to the community with live music.

Blacktop, a country and classic rock cover band from Des Moines, will perform from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. June 24 at Central Park in the Main Street Corning District. Admission is $10. Gates will open at 6 p.m. The band is sponsored by Engel & Maharry Law and Keul Electric.

The live music event will include a beer garden, kettle corn from Sonrisers Popcorn, and the Patty Wagon food truck.

The Gravel Grinder itself is set to begin at 6 a.m. June 25. The gravel bike race takes participants along gravel, dirt, and minimally maintained roads in distances of 200K, 100K, or 50K with several categories for woman and men in various age groups.

“Every year SWIGG grows larger and there is a reason why — it's fun,” SWIGG coordinator Cory McAplin said. “On average you can expect one-fourth to one-third of a course to be dirt level B roads. We promise an experience like no other. There will be hills and lots of them.”

Last year’s Gravel Grinder included more than 150 registered bike riders for the fifth annual event. Participants can check in early on June 24. For more information, go to the Gravel Grinder Facebook page at swiggrace or email [email protected]. Registration is required.

For more information about the live music event, contact the Adams Community Chamber at (641) 322-3243.

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Quilts comfort foster children

A local group is using its passion for quilting to help bring comfort to foster children in Southwest Iowa.

Chris Nippert, Kathy Bozwell, Virginia Perrin, Judi Perrin, Erma Fuller, Sharon Fuller, Jan Archer, Darlene True, and Pastor Inba have begun creating Quilts of Comfort as a mission project hosted by Strand Lutheran Church.

So far they have pieced and tied 20 throw quilts and five baby quilts for local foster children.

The group hopes to donate the Quilts of Comfort to Fostering Hope of Southwest Iowa, a cost-free closet hosted by the First Presbyterian Church of Corning that provides clothing, shoes, bedding, books, diapers, toiletries, baby gear, and other necessities to foster families and children.

“Thank you to all who step forward to help brighten these kids’ future,” Bozwell said

Beymer Block
​a century strong

By Steve Gruba

Arthur M. Beymer was already 52 years old when he suffered an abrupt career change due to the Great Fire of Oct. 9, 1896, which took his store along with all those along the east side of Davis Avenue.

Within a year, rather than rebuild the wooden hardware store he’d been running on the corner of Seventh and Davis, his Beymer Block of 700-702 Davis was constructed of brick and rented out.
His first tenant was the well know Andrews Clothing Store which had been in business in Corning since 1881 at another location. It occupied the main floor space from 1897 until 1904 when it moved up the street to the Z.T. Widener building, anchoring that corner until it moved again in 1926. Moving in was the E.M. Cain Clothing Store which shared space with Corie Peregrine Pianos. A shoe repair shop was in the basement. In 1910 J.H. Dunn put in his “Racket Store,” a discount variety shop, while Cain Clothing moved to 613 Davis Ave. J.H. Dunn moved his own store to that same address in 1915 when Cain’s went out of business.

Occupying the main floor from 1915 to 1917 was the W.C. Rose Billiard Hall with a real estate business and perhaps a harness shop in the basement. The newspapers of the time gleefully recount how the billiard hall refused to give up their lease early and thus delayed the opening of the J.J. Hogan State Bank. The bank lasted until Nov. 4, 1930, when it quietly went into receivership. Damien Hogan, the secretary of the National Farm Loan Association, used the vacated space for his offices until 1934.

Western Telephone Corporation remodeled the old bank and made a new door in the Seventh Street wall to accommodate their switchboard operators and equipment. Interestingly, Corning had had telephone service since 1900 under the name Anderson Telephone Co. Western Telephone became Western Light and Telephone in 1945 due to mergers. It moved to 608 Davis Ave. in September 1960 to obtain the necessary room for equipment for the new rotary dial phones.

Almost immediately, the Corner Cafe took its place and remained a fixture at that location for the next 18 years before another main street anchor, Gadberry’s True Value Hardware, who was next door, bought the space and opened the connecting wall to make a store extension. Ultimately, the wall was rebuilt and Spotlight School of Dance opened in 2002, teaching students until 2017 when the property was sold to Greater Regional Medical Center.

While the main floor was constantly occupied with large businesses, the second floor was likewise constantly busy with smaller businesses such as doctors’ and lawyers’ offices and even apartments to live in. Their ads in the newspapers listed simply “above Cain Clothing” for an address. 

Not to be outdone, the rear of the building was also occupied with businesses. A memorable one was Chalmers Cafe. Apparently Jim Chalmers was a native of Scotland who became a U.S. citizen in 1917 and opened his cafe in the 1920s. When business was slow, the newspapers said that he went outdoors and serenaded passersby with singing about his hot, tasty and inexpensive meals waiting for them just inside. He was remembered to be big, round and boisterous. He sold in 1947 and the cafe became the Economy Cafe until it closed in 1949. Locals recall how the cafe was tiny with no sit down tables or chairs. Somehow Sundstrom Barber Shop, later Means and Sundstrom, then Means and Parcher, found space to cut hair from the 1930s until 1967.

Between the new door put there by the telephone company and the cafe/barbershop were a succession of businesses. Farm Bureau took the barbershop space from 1967 until moving across Seventh St. in 2013. Corning Gas Company did business there from 1954 until 1959 when it moved to 404 Seventh St. The Nook had a brief run from 1976 to 1977.

All this activity left the building pretty beat up. When Greater Regional bought it, the back wall had collapsed and needed to be reconstructed. Roof trusses were reinforced, sagging stairways were rebuilt, new foundation walls were poured and the front entrance from the basement to the roof was entirely redone to reverse decades of building neglect. Today a solid building that looks a century old stands proudly in the heart of downtown ready to anchor generations of entrepreneurs to come.

Draft hazard mitigation plan available

A plan has been drafted to qualify Adams County and all governmental bodies in the county for federal funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The plan outlines the types of hazards that are most likely to cause considerable damage in the county and the types of actions that can best reduce damages and losses to life and property.
 
Once the plan is finalized and approved by the Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department and FEMA and is adopted by local governments, each agency can apply for grants up to 85 percent of the cost to carry out mitigation actions. Therefore, Adams County Emergency Management is seeking public comment about the proposed actions.

This multi-jurisdictional plan covers Adams County, City of Corning, City of Nodaway, City of Prescott, Southwest Valley Schools’ Corning Campus and CHI Health’s Corning Campus.

The public can access the document by going to either http://www.sicog.com/publications/ or http://adamscounty.iowa.gov/departments/adams-county-emergency-management/. There will also be a meeting at 6:30 p.m. June 23 at the Corning Community Center at 601 Sixth St. for the purpose of the public to provide comments or join discussion about the plan. Those who wish to provide comments or questions directly to the plan author before that meeting can call Jeremy Rounds, Southern Iowa Council of Governments, at (641) 782-8494 or by email at [email protected]. Questions or comments can also be directed to Bill Lyddon, Adams County Emergency Management coordinator, at [email protected] or (641) 322-3623

Cooper makes
​history at state

On May 19 at the State Track Meet in Des Moines, sophomore Emma Cooper made history as Southwest Valley’s first girls medalist while junior Marshall Knapp placed 14th in the high jump. 

“Emma jumped her second best jump of the season on her first attempt, 16-3.75, which was good enough to get her into the finals and eventually earn a sixth place medal,” girls head coach Jason Hults said. 

Cooper had been seeded ninth after qualifying at the district meet the week before with a jump of 16-5.25.

“She jumped really well all day, and was very consistent on the board, with just one scratch on her second jump in the finals,” Hults said. “I was very proud of her and how she handled all the distractions that come with making it the state track meet for the first time. She was very focused all week in practice and had a great attitude going in to the meet.”

Cooper also qualified in the 100 meter, which was scheduled to start about an hour after the long jump started, Hults said.

“Emma was able to get in her first two jumps in the final round, then had to leave to report in for the 100 meter,” he said.

Running in the second heat, Cooper ran a 13.93 to finish 22nd overall. 

“We were really excited when she qualified on time in the 100 after finishing third at districts, so it was kind of a bonus to get to compete in two events,” Hults said. “Emma's focus was the long jump, and that paid off with the sixth place medal, but the experience of getting to the run the 100 at state will motivate her moving forward next season.”

​Polling place reminders coming soon
Adams County Auditor Becky Bissell is reminding voters that some Adams County residents will have changed polling places due to recent redistricting across the state. 

Iowans whose polling place has changed should be on the lookout for a postcard in the mail informing them of the new location. 

“It is very important for our citizens to have this information due to the recent reprecincting in the county,” Bissell said. “The Temporary Reprecincting Commission worked diligently to have Adams County polling locations convenient for voters while at the same time adhering to the requirements set by the State of Iowa.”

Adams County will work with the Iowa Secretary of State to send a postcard to every registered voter in the county starting May 18. Under Iowa law, notices are required to be sent to impacted voters between 20 days and seven days prior to the primary election and again prior to the general election.

“If your polling place changed due to redistricting, you’ll be getting a card in the mail informing you of the new location,” Secretary of State Paul Pate said. “We want all eligible Iowans to make their voices heard by voting this year, and it’s important to have a plan if you’re going to the polls on Election Day. Step one is registering to vote. Step two is making sure you know where your polling place is located.”
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Iowans can also look up their polling place online sos.iowa.gov/elections. To check voter registration status, register to vote or update information, visit VoterReady.Iowa.gov or call the auditor’s office at (641) 322-3340.

Submitted photo — National American Legion Auxiliary President Kathy Daudistel, center, spoke April 26 at the Williamson American Legion Post. From left are Amy Muse, 7th District Commander; Doris Jackson, Department President; Kathy Daudistel; Bob Waugh, Department Commander; and Angie Blazek, 7th District President.

ALA president speaks
​to Williamson Legion

The Williamson Legion hosted National American Legion Auxiliary President Kathy Daudistel of Kentucky on April 26 for a dinner and reception.

Dignitaries in attendance were Alternate National Executive Committee Mary Sebben, Department of Iowa Legion Commander Bob Waugh, Department of Iowa Auxiliary President Doris Jackson, 7th District of Iowa Legion Commander Amy Muse, 7th District of Iowa Auxiliary President Angie Blazek, Williamson Legion Post Commander Dave Mullin, Williamson Auxiliary President Marvel Blazek, and Williamson Sons of the American Legion Commander Boone Blazek.

Daudistel became the national president of the American Legion Auxiliary during the organization’s National Convention held Aug. 27-Sept. 2 in Phoenix, Ariz. She is eligible for ALA membership through her father, William Kaellin Jr., and U.S. Army veteran who served during the Korean War era. Daudistel has two daughters, four grandchildren, and two sons-in-law.

Daudistel retired from a Fortune 500 company after more than 30 years where she worked in the information technology department. She earned her bachelor of science degree in information technology from Northern Kentucky University.

Coming from a small town in Bellevue, Ky., Daudistel grew up involved in a local veterans’ organization called the Bellevue Veterans Club, which was started by two World War II veterans who wanted some place to meet. It eventually turned into a place for the community. There she coached volleyball for years and ran the league. She has also been a Girl Scout leader, president for two years of Fellow Life Management Institute, president of Bellevue Veterans Auxiliary, a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, a Kentucky Colonel, an American Legion Rider with Chapter 203, and has volunteered for the Special Olympics in northern Kentucky.

An ALA member for 25 years, Daudistel has held numerous leadership positions at the unit, district, department, and national levels, including national vice president; national committee chair: Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, Children and Youth, Poppy, National Security, Americanism, Membership, and Leadership; national committee vice chair: Junior Activities; National Executive Committee and alternate NEC.  

Two of her favorite ALA activities are volunteering at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival, her favorite being the latter.

“The veterans and the caregivers you meet there are just incredible,” she said. “You listen to their stories and hear the odds that they’ve overcome and how they got there. It’s heartwarming and it brings home everything that we do and why we do what we do.”

At the dinner and reception, membership awards were given to Legion members John Blazek 70-year member, Ron Brown 50-year member, Orville Lines 70-year member, and Robert Vicker 71-year charter member. 

Membership awards were given to Auxiliary members Annette Adamson 70-year Charter member, Doris Lines 70-year member, and Wanda Victor 70-year charter member.

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Submitted photo — Adams Community Economic Development Corporation executive director Beth Waddle, center, receives the Outstanding Website Award from Amy Zeiger, state tourism manager for the Iowa Tourism Office, left, and Debi Durham, director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and the Iowa Finance Authority at an April 20 ceremony in Des Moines.

ACEDC receives
​Outstanding Website Award

The Adams Community Economic Development Corporation received one of 26 awards presented April 20 by the Iowa Tourism Office at a ceremony in Des Moines during the 2022 Iowa Tourism Conference.

“Iowa tourism realized a great recovery since last summer,” said Amy Zeiger, state tourism manager for the Iowa Tourism Office. “That’s in large part to the innovative work from our partners. We’re excited to celebrate their accomplishments and the industry’s momentum with these awards.”

Awards, divided into metro and rural distinctions, were made in 13 categories. ACEDC received “Outstanding Website” for its www.traveladamscountyiowa.com tourism website. In 2021, ACEDC in partnership with Main Street Corning and the Adams Community Chamber of Commerce worked together to develop a new joint community website at adamscountyiowa.com. Each organization has its own URL to direct members, clients, and visitors to what interests them most. They are all a part of the overall website at www.adamscountyiowa.com.

“We have great community partnerships,” said Beth Waddle, ACEDC executive director. “We were thrilled to receive the Outstanding Website award from the Iowa Tourism office. We continue to provide new content for our tourism partners in our community, as well as opportunities for businesses to post job openings, houses for rent, business hours, who to contact and what opportunities there are to start or expand a business in Adams County, Iowa.

“Stephanie at SPeters Designs worked tirelessly to develop a vibrant and unique website that allows us to locally make changes and updates on the fly to keep information fresh,” Waddle said. “She researched and developed new ways to express our creative point of view and invite the community to participate in keeping our local calendar of events up-to-date. We continue to make additions to the website to best serve our community members, businesses and especially guests into our community.”

Waddle attended the conference and accepted the award on behalf of the team at the Iowa Tourism Conference at a luncheon April 20.

“We invite you to check out our website at www.traveladamscountyiowa.com. You can also thumb through our Adams County Guide online or request one to be mailed to you,” Waddle said. “Be sure to check out all the pages that list things to do and experience. You can create your own adventure by mixing and matching to create your own itinerary or from the website, fill out a form of what interests you and we will create a tentative itinerary to send to you.m. Come visit Adams County, where we are ‘always creative’!

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Submitted photo — “Iowa History 101: People and Places” Mobile Museum Exhibit will be in Corning April 20-24.

Iowa History 101
​visits Corning

The Adams County Historical Preservation Commission will host “Iowa History 101: People and Places” Mobile Museum Exhibit in Corning from Wednesday, April 20, through Sunday, April 24.  

The exhibit will be parked on the north side of the Southwest Valley Activity Center at 904 Eighth St. in Corning.

The exhibit will be open from noon to 4 p.m. April 20 and April 24 and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 22-23.

On April 21, the museum will be open from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. with a public program at 7 p.m. in the Southwest Valley High School Auditorium.

State curator Leo Landis will discuss stories and artifacts representing 13,000 years of Iowa history as presented in the State Historical Museum of Iowa’s “Iowa’s People and Places” Mobile Museum and the museum exhibition with the same name at the State Historical Society of Iowa Museum in Des Moines.

Landis is state curator and museum curator for the State Historical Society of Iowa where he has worked since March 2013. He began his museum career at Living History Farms in Urbandale, Iowa, worked at Conner Prairie in Fishers, Ind., and was a curator at Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village in Dearborn, Mich., for eight years. He also worked as a curator and educator at Salisbury House in Des Moines,  Iowa. Landis has a B.S. in history from Iowa State University, an M.A. in Historical Administration from Eastern Illinois University, and taken coursework toward a Ph.D. from Iowa State.

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Fifteen place
​at FBLA State Conference

The Southwest Valley Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter attended the state conference March 31-April 2 in Coralville, Iowa.

The FBLA contest exposes students to leadership experiences with the chance to compete and to network with other students and business leaders. Numerous tests are available for the students to compete in including individual, team, and chapter events.

The Southwest Valley FBLA had 15 members attend the State Leadership Competition. They included Sam Larsen, Norah Lund, Alana Drake, Gabe Fuller, Blake Thomas, Ally Birt, Becca Wetzel, Lindsay Maurer, Anjali Kathikar, Olivia Kathikar, Ethan James, Charlee Larsen, Andraya Dimmler, Dylan Stormer, and Gracelyn Bain.

While attending the contests the students were required to wear professional business attire. The conference officially began with a general session where over 600 FBLA members from chapters across all of Iowa gathered together to officially begin the conference. Before and after the general session all of the FBLA members had contests to compete in. Some of the events were individual tests that were multiple choice, the other events were presentation, performance, and/or team based.

To conclude the conference, the awards ceremony is held where members who place in the top 10 in their tests/competitions are recognized on stage. Students who place in the top four in the national events are automatic qualifiers for the national competition being held in Chicago, Ill., this year June 28-July 2.

SWV’s automatic qualifiers for nationals this year are Sam Larsen, second, advertising; team of Ally Birt and Lindsay Maurer, third, graphic design; and team of Andraya Dimmler and Gracelyn Bain, fourth, website design.

Southwest Valley FBLA students who either placed in a state or national event. All 15 SWV FBLA members who attended this year placed in at least one event in a state or national  event. They include Ally Birt, seventh, sales; Andraya Dimmler, fourth NLC T-shirt design; Alana Drake, fifth, impromptu speaking/seventh, vocab relay advanced; Gabe Fuller, fifth, computer problem solving/seventh, vocab relay advanced/eighth, cyber security; Blake Thomas, seventh, vocab relay advanced/ninth, cyber security/10th, computer problem solving; Sam Larsen, eighth, health care administration/ninth, spelling relay advanced; Norah Lund, ninth, spelling relay advanced; Rebecca Wetzel, fifth, interviewing and etiquette/fifth, job interview/ninth, health care administration; Lindsay Maurer, ninth, technology practical application; Anjali Kathikar, fifth, public service announcement/ninth, spelling relay advanced/10th, business calculations; Dylan Stormer, sixth, agribusiness/seventh, sales presentation; Charlee Larsen, sixth, spelling relay/seventh, introduction to financial math; Ethan James, sixth, spelling relay/eighth, introduction to financial math/ninth, introduction to business concepts; Gracelyn Bain, fourth, NLC T-shirt design; and Olivia Kathikar, sixth, spelling relay.

Southwest Valley FBLA also received chapter awards for the following: second place March of Dimes Award raising $250, seventh place Largest Local Chapter Market Share, which is total membership compared to overall high school population — 21.23 percent. 

Dan Ahrens, the FBLA advisor, said he was impressed with the overall performance of all the students and also on how they represented Southwest Valley. He would also like to give thanks to the chaperone’s Michelle Kennedy and Jamie McManis as well as the bus driver Terry Shepherd for helping make this a successful conference and experience.

CCFA plans spring events

The Corning Center for Fine Arts will offer two classes and a free painting demonstration this spring.

The nonprofit gallery will hold an observational drawing class with Neil Rizos from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. April 21, April 28, and May 5 at 706 Davis Ave.

Rizos is a professional artist for 30 years and is currently an artist in residence. He has exhibited throughout the U.S. and internationally. His work is in private and public collections, including the Library of Congress. For more info visit www.rizosart.com or birdjournaling.com.

The workshop objective is to learn a proven method of visual analysis and use it to observe 2D and 3D objects, which students will then draw, accurately. The registration fee is $180. All skill levels are welcome.

Iowa Watercolor Society member Mayela Fonseca will conduct a watercolor sketching class from 9 a.m. to noon April 23. Students will learn how sketching is a method for collecting visual information and improving observational skills. Participants will become familiar and make it a habit of sketching in a way that is fun. 

The class is limited to the first 12 paid registrants. A registration fee of $50 should be prepaid by April 23. Make checks payable to Corning Center for Fine Arts. Sign up by going to corningfinearts.org in the events tab or by calling (641) 322-4549.

CFFA artist in residence Stephanie Peters will provide a free pastel painting demonstration along with a question and answer period from 10 a.m. to noon April 30.

Peters will discuss the importance of staying true to the appearance of a subject even when interpretive colors are used. Participants will watch and ask questions as she completes a pastel painting, and learn how to use this technique in their own work.

Peters is a professional artist who has exhibited internationally and within the U.S. Her work is in private collections internationally and has been published in books and magazines abroad. For more information about Peters, visit Stephartist.com.

To sign up for this free demonstration, go to www.corningfinearts.org and “Sign Up for Classes” tab or call CCFA at (641) 322-4549 or (712) 789- 1076.

Primary brings two contested seats

Adams County voters will see two contested races for county supervisor in the Tuesday, June 7, primary election.

Republican candidates Jerry Peckham and Tony Hardisty will face off for county supervisor District 2 TFV while Karl McCarty and Christopher Standley will vie for District 5 TFV. The complete list of local candidates on the ballot to be nominated for the general election is pictured abover.

Only voters registered with the Democratic or Republican parties (or people who declare their affiliation with a party when casting a ballot) are allowed to vote in primary elections.

Tuesday, March 29, was the first day to submit absentee ballot requests. Requests for absentee ballots to be mailed may be filed with the Auditor’s Office starting March 29 through 5 p.m. Monday, May 23. The first day ballots can be mailed is Wednesday, May 18. May 18 is also the first day ballots may be cast in person through the Auditor’s Office.

The Auditor’s Office will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, May 23, for the pre-registration deadline to vote in the primary election. This applies to registration in person or by mail. There is election day registration, but specific documentation must be provided. If possible, register before election day.

The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail is Saturday, June 4, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Auditor’s Office will be open for absentee voting and other election business.

Monday, June 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. is the last day to request and vote an absentee ballot in person at the auditor’s office.

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 7, for the primary election.

Polling places are:
Adams 1 — Corning Community Center
Adams 2 — Corning Public Library
Adams 3 — Redeemer Lutheran Church
Adams 4 — Nodaway Community Center
Adams 5 — Prescott City Hall/Library

Pre-registered voters are required to provide an approved form of identification at the polling place before receiving and casting a regular ballot. Voters who are not pre-registered — such as voters registering to vote on election day — and voters changing precincts must also provide proof of residence.

A voter who is unable to provide an approved form of identification (or prove residence if required): 
1) May have the voter’s identity/residence attested to by another registered voter in the precinct; 
2) Prove identity and residence using election day registration documents; or 
3) Cast a provisional ballot and provide proof of identity/residence at the county Auditor’s Office by noon Monday, June 13. 

Election day registrant attesters must provide an approved form of identification. For additional information about providing proof of identity and/or residence visit https://sos.iowa.gov/voterid or the Auditor’s Office at (641) 322-3340.

The Adams County Auditor’s Office is available by phone Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 
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For more information about voter registration, absentee ballots, or voting, call (641) 322-3340 or visit www.adamscounty.iowa.gov or www.sos.iowa.gov.

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March 21-25 is Severe Weather Awareness Week

Adams County Emergency Management, Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, National Weather Service, and Iowa Emergency Management Association have joined together to promote Severe Weather Awareness Week in Iowa.

Severe Weather Awareness Week, March 21-25, is an opportunity to highlight the importance of being aware of, and prepared for, severe weather. It is also an ideal time to review family emergency plans, check the contents of emergency kits, and sign up to receive alerts to stay weather aware.
To sign up for Alert Iowa and receive local emergency and public safety messages via text message, email, and/or voice message, go to the Adams County website at https://adamscounty.iowa.gov/ select Emergency Management under Departments then select Sign Up Now.

Each day during Severe Weather Awareness Week has a different focus:

• Monday — Severe thunderstorms
• Tuesday — Weather warnings
• Wednesday — Tornadoes
• Thursday — Family preparedness
• Friday — Flash floods

The annual statewide tornado drill will take place at 10 a.m. March 23. In the event of severe weather, the drill will be postponed to 10 a.m. March 24.

Additional information about the tornado drill can be found on local NWS websites.

Follow HSEMD, IEMA, and NWS on social media using the hashtag #IAwx and #ReadyIowa

County gains
​new precinct maps

As filing for Adams County candidates gets under way, candidates as well as voters will see changes in precinct and district boundaries.

The new precincts are more geographically compact but still meet the requirements of the state as can be seen by the maps.

Per the State Code of Iowa, after each federal decennial census, counties must review their precinct boundaries and supervisor district boundaries to see whether the existing boundaries comply with current laws, a press release from the Adams County Auditor’s office says.

Of major importance, each district and precinct must be equally balanced within a certain variance of population. For Adams County, that number was seven people. The 2021 map shows the number of people in each precinct/district. Also in Adams County, the City of Corning Wards align with the first three precincts of the county. For example, Precinct One’s boundaries encompass District One, which is Supervisor District One. It also contains Ward One of the City of Corning. Precincts One through Three all have a part of the City of Corning’s Wards One through Three respectfully. Precinct Four includes the Cities of Nodaway and Carbon and the unincorporated community of Brooks. Precinct Five includes the City of Prescott.

Adams County is considered a Plan Three county. In Plan Three counties, the board of supervisors is elected by supervisor district and the supervisors must live in supervisor districts, the press release says. The supervisors established a temporary redistricting commission whose job it was to draw the precinct boundaries. They completed their work in January of this year and the precincts were approved. The Legislative Services Agency then drew the supervisor districts, which were approved. In Adams County the precinct boundaries and the supervisor districts align with each other. Finally, the Adams County Board of Supervisors and the Iowa Secretary of State approved both the reprecincting and the redistricting plans going forward for the next 10 years.

All of the polling locations are remaining the same but the people who vote there will change, the press release said. The Auditor’s Office has updated the voter registration database to reflect the new boundaries and will be sending notices to voters prior to both the primary and general election this year and will be publishing the new boundaries in The Adams County Free Press. Residents may also contact the Auditor’s Office if they wish to know where they will vote moving forward. 

County candidate filing begins

March 7 was the first day for Democratic, Republican, NPPO, candidates and candidates nominated for county office to file nomination papers with the auditor for the primary and general elections. With the changes in district boundaries, all of the Adams County supervisor seats will be open. Districts One, Three, and Four will be filing for a four-year term. Districts Two and Five will be filing to fill a vacancy for a two-year term to keep terms of the supervisors staggered. 

Of the current supervisors, redistricting moved both Merlin Dixon and Bobbi Baker-Maynes into District One, no current supervisor resides in District Two, Scott Akin remains in District Three, Leland Shipley remains in District Four, and Doug Birt is now located in District Five. Nomination papers and affidavits of candidacy are available in the Auditor’s Office and online at the Secretary of State’s website, https://sos.iowa.gov/. 

The last day for filing to the Auditor’s Office is Friday, March 25, by 5 p.m. For more information concerning filing, contact the Adams County Auditor’s Office at (641) 322-3340 or [email protected]. 

Meeting to offer look
​at courthouse plan

The Adams County Board of Supervisors will host a public meeting at 5 p.m. March 8 in the courtroom of the Adams County Courthouse.

Supervisors will provide information about an $8,500,000 renovation to the courthouse and Sheriff’s Office as well as give the public an opportunity to see artist’s renderings of the proposed renovation and comment on the plans to renovate, modernized, and build and addition to the Adams County Courthouse.

The renovation will:

• Remove asbestos.

• Improve inefficient heating and cooling system.

• Improve accessibility and comply with ADA requirements. 

• Create a secure space for law enforcement and separate circulation areas for inmates.

• Address technology needs.

• Move public offices to the first floor.

The current courthouse, built in 1955, sits prominently at the top of Davis Avenue and compliments Corning’s business district.

Scott Stephenson from D.A. Davidson will speak at 5:30 p.m. about the financing of the project. Tours of the courthouse and Sheriff’s Office will follow.

“The evening is an opportunity for the Board of Supervisors to inform and engage the public about the importance of this project,” a press release from the board says

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Submitted graphic — Above is an artist’s rendering of a renovated Adams County Courthouse. The Board of Supervisors will host a public meeting to discuss the plan, renovation costs, ad provide a tour of the existing courthouse.

Courthouse to undergo renovation

The Adams County Board of Supervisors is in the process of developing a major renovation project for the courthouse.

The current courthouse, built in 1955, sits prominently at the top of Davis Avenue and compliments Corning’s business district.

“The building has aged, and in some areas deteriorated to the point that it currently does not meet the needs of the citizens nor does it meet today’s standards for the purposes that it was originally designed,” the Board of Supervisors said in a Feb. 17 press release. “The Board of Supervisors has determined that a renovation would be the most cost-effective method for improving the building’s shortcomings rather than building a new structure.

“The project is a thoughtful integration of extensive remodeling as well as an addition for public-facing services such as the law enforcement center and the treasurer’s office,” the press release continues. “The plan is designed to support both current and future needs of the courthouse with a focus on improving accessibility, safety and security for the public and staff.”

The Adams County Board of Supervisors will be hosting a public meeting in the near future to discuss the courthouse renovation plan, the costs associated with the project, and provide a tour of the building

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CCFA hosting
​IWS Traveling Show

The Iowa Watercolor Society Traveling Show is now on exhibition in the Corning Center for The Fine Arts gallery at 706 Davis Ave. in Corning.

CCFA was one of five Southwest Iowa galleries chosen to display these paintings and will be available to view for the months of February and March.

Each year, the Iowa Watercolor Society has a nationally recognized, well-accomplished artist come to engage the members in workshops. The members submit their pieces and they are judged. That judge then selects the art works to be included in the traveling show for one year.

The Iowa Watercolor Society was founded in 1977 by a group of watercolor artists throughout Iowa. The organization has more than 100 members of beginning, self-taught, amateur, and professional artists statewide. The only requirement for membership is an interest in watercolor painting. There is also a minimal membership fee. Young adults are encouraged to consider IWS to grow their artistic abilities and learn this media.

IWS holds the annual traveling show to promote and encourage Iowa communities to see the possibilities and potential of watercolor and water-based media. For more information about the Iowa Watercolor Society, visit www.iowawatercolorsociety.org or find it the IWS Facebook page.

The Corning Center for Fine Arts is open for anyone to see these pieces from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The CCFA will also host two open houses in March. The first is Friday, March 4, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The second is Thursday, March 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. However, the gallery is open with the hours above to view these works.

Fostering Hope
​to offer training

Fostering Hope of Southwest Iowa will conduct a community training event, Strong Kids-Strong Future, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 19 at the First Presbyterian Church at 907 Grove Ave. in Corning.

The training will cover a variety of topics including Fostering Hope by Discouraging Human Trafficking, Parenting the Willful Child, Substances of Abuse 101 and The New Nicotine Addiction, and Unraveling Neurodevelopmental Disorders.

The courses are Department of Human Services foster care credit approved and Early Childhood daycare credit approved. Register online at 1stprescorning.org/strong. The deadline to register is Feb. 11. Topics are not suitable for persons under 18 years old.

Fostering Hope by Discouraging Human Trafficking will be held via Zoom. It will cover human trafficking, its prevalence in Iowa, and how to prevent someone from falling victim or assist someone who has. The pandemic has significantly increased vulnerabilities for children online. One focus of this presentation will be how traffickers use technology for exploitation and some tools we can use to protect children. The instructor will be pediatric nurse practitioner Teresa Davidson, ARNP, MSN, MA. Davidson is Iowa’s first anti-human trafficking coordinator in a hospital and co-founder of Chains Interrupted, a nonprofit dedicated to fight human trafficking in Eastern Iowa and beyond.

Parenting the Willful Child — Helping Your Child Use Their Power for Good and Not Evil will focus on parenting strategies for children who are often seen as “difficult.” Discussion will cover the importance of moving away from trying to “break” their will and joining with them in a positive relationship, giving appropriate choices, and avoiding power struggles. Instructor Dr. Joann Seeman Smith is a licensed mental health counselor who specializes in diagnosis and treatment of children and adolescents. She received her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Iowa State University in 2008. She works with many diagnoses and issues including, attention-deficit disorder, learning disabilities, autism-spectrum disorders, behavior problems, depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety, and adjustment difficulties due to abuse, foster care, transition to adoption, bereavement, and divorce. 

Substances of Abuse 101 and The New Nicotine Addiction will help parents, teachers, and caregivers will learn about why certain substances lead to dependence and addiction. It provides insight as to what is happening in the brain and body when substances are present both in the short and long term, and clears up the mysteries of why addiction happens. There will also be a section for audience members to choose from a selection of substances to expand their knowledge about them including things like opioids, MDMA, kratom, and marijuana. 

Instructors are Lisa Carstens, Jessica Petter, and Rhonda Grebert. Carstens is a certified prevention specialist with ZION Integrated Behavioral Health Services. She provides gambling and substance abuse prevention in 13 counties in southern Iowa. Lisa has only been working in prevention for two years but has worked with area schools and communities for 20 years now. Petter is a prevention specialist for ZION Integrated Behavioral Health Services with three and a half years in the behavioral health field and six years in healthcare. Grebert is registered nurse and tobacco prevention coordinator with Page County Public Health.

Unraveling Neurodevelopmental Disorders will specifically focus on gaining a better understanding of Attention Deficit-Hyperactive Disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorders. It will cover how these diagnoses typically present in childhood and discuss atypical presentation as well along with parenting approaches and accommodations for home and school. The instructor will Dr. Joann Seeman Smith

Chamber honors community volunteers

The Adams Community Chamber honored community volunteers at its Annual Awards Banquet on Jan. 27 at the Prescott Eagles Nest.

Every year the Board of Directors reaches out to the community and asks for nominations for Entrepreneur of the Year, Best Agriculturalist, Business or Organization of the Year, the John McMahon Volunteer of the Year and the Joe Cook Lifetime Support Award. The descriptions of the awards are sent out each year with nominations.

Chamber members selected 30 nominees in five categories for 2021. The categories are Entrepreneur of the Year, Best Agriculturalist of the Year, Organization/Business of the Year, John McMahon Volunteer of the Year, and The Joe Cook Lifetime Support Award.

Jamie McManis of Liberty Realty was named Entrepreneur of the Year. Other nominees were Barbara Corey of Corning Winery, Cindy Roberts and Anne Greenwalt of Real Deals, Nick Wetzel of Wolf Wash/Farm Bureau Financial Services, and Sherry Keefe of Hair Designers and Backgrounds Coffee Bar and Boutique.

Rod Fleharty was named Best Agriculturalist of the Year. Other nominees were Dana Morgan, and Larry Kester.

Corning American Theater was named Business and/or Organization of the Year. Other nominees were Adams Community Economic Development Corporation, Corning Winery, Southwest Valley Schools, and TS Bank.

Brian Peterson was named the John McMahon Volunteer of the Year. Other nominees were Jamie McManis, Jamie Stargell, Julia Paul, Kelly Herring, Marvin Smith, Patty Peterson, Tysen Christensen, Becky Rike, and Nancy Turner.

Marilea Mullen was the Joe Cook Lifetime Support Award recipient. 

The Joe Cook Lifetime Support Award is given to an individual who has shown long-term dedication to the betterment of the Adams Community.

Other Joe Cook Lifetime Support nominees were Bert Peckham, Betsy Akin, Linda Shearer, Rick and Jo Bissell, Scott Akin, and Nancy Turner.

Adams Community Foundation president Nancy Turner also presented Foundation Grants to Adams County Ambulance, Adams Community Economic Development Corporation, Corning Youth Club, Corning Public Library the City of Prescott , CHI Wellness Center, Corning Opera House, and Children and Families of Iowa.

67th John J. Harris Wrestling Tournament

Jan. 21-22 was a big weekend for Timberwolf wrestlers. Southwest Valley hosted the 67th John J. Harris Wrestling Tournament while junior Adyson Lundquist and freshman Madelyn McCoy competed in the Iowa Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association Girls State Wrestling Tournament in Coralville. Above are photos from the John J. Harris Tournament. The Girls State Wrestling Tournament info and photos appear on the Sports page.

ACEDC unveils new look

Adams Community Economic Development Corporation has a new look.

A small team of community leaders met with graphic designer and website developer Stephanie Peters of SPeters Designs to develop a new look and new logo, ACEDC executive director Beth Waddle said.

“With vibrant colors that reflect the creative community culture of Adams County and the shapes and images that lay claim to our rural agricultural-based community and our lakes; ACEDC is changing up their look for their 50th year in business,” Waddle said. “With the AC – Adams Community still the main focus, the AC can capture new layers of creative energy on the website that reflects the Always Creative atmosphere of this ‘can do’ community.”

Adams Community Economic Development Corporation with its Main Street Corning Board in cooperation with the Adams Community Chamber of Commerce are launching the new website. This interactive site has many new functions. 

Under the Economic Development tab, there is more information about each of the three partners: What each of their mission is, who serves on their Board of Directors, what committees they have, how one can become part of the passion, and more.

“For Adams County Businesses the first thing you will want to do is go to the Business Directory,” Waddle said. “You can claim or add your business listing, upload logos and images, put your hours and a description of your business and so much more. The public will have a comprehensive resource of what is available in Adams County.”

Once the business listing has been posted, business owners can post job openings, giving Adams County businesses another outlet to share with the world that are seeking employees. Both current residents and those looking to move into the community can search for job openings once the information has been uploaded into the online forms that make it easy for businesses to manage their information and take down the job once filled.

For local information, click on the Community tab. The Community tab provides information about the Adams Community Foundation, libraries, churches, education, housing, health care, and government. 

“If you are a landlord and have rental units, go to the subtab under housing and fill out the form to list any available units on our site,” Waddle said. “You can control the information and hide it when the unit is rented.”

Main Street Corning shares information about how is assists businesses and promotes the community. A map of Main Street district is available. 

“You can learn about their four committees, their façade grant program, and other resources they can bring to the table to help local businesses within their district. You can also sign up to volunteer for a committee or one of their activities,” Waddle said. “Watch for sponsorship forms as events and promotions are posted throughout the year.”

Adams Community Chamber of Commerce pages explain why one should be a member of this community action-packed organization, Waddle said. Businesses and individuals can fill out the membership application online, sign up to receive the Chamber’s monthly newsletter, and see what other businesses are Chamber members.

To find out what’s going on in the community, click on the Calendar link at the top of the home page. Organizations can add their schedules of entertainment or events to the Calendar page. 

“Our goal is to have all community events listed in this one location so residents and visitors can participate in community activities,” Waddle said. “If you are part of an organization that puts on events, please appoint one person from your organization to update your activities on this site.”

Waddle said most importantly the new website is a tool for the Adams Community. 

“Make it your home page, bookmark it and go to it often as a resource. Share it with family, friends, and other business connections. Invite them to be active in our community,” she said. “You can still find us at www.adamscountyiowa.com. Adams Community … where we are Always Creative.

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SWV to host
​John J. Harris tourney

The John J. Harris Wrestling Tournament will be held Jan. 21-22 at Southwest Valley High School Campus located in Corning.

The tournament began in 1955, making this year’s event the 67th year. Twenty-five teams will travel to Corning for the event.

According to the most recent rankings released by IAWRESTLE, this year’s competition will feature 28 ranked grapplers. Thirteen of the 14 weight classes will have a ranked wrestler, with multiple weights featuring two or more ranked wrestlers.

“None of the teams competing are ranked but we do have some great teams competing,” SWV activities director Allen Naugle said. “Look for Class 2A perennial power Creston to vie for one of the top spots as well as Atlantic, Clarinda, Missouri Valley and Winterset. Overall it will be an extremely competitive and close team race.”

Competing teams include AC/GC, Atlantic, Bedford/Lenox, Central Decatur, Clarinda, Clarke, Creston, Denison-Schleswig, Des Moines North/Hoover, Earlham, East Mills, Griswold, Missouri Valley, Mt. Ayr, MVAOCOU, Nodaway Valley, Panorama, Red Oak, Riverside, Shenandoah, Southwest Iowa, SWV, Tri Center, Wayne, and Winterset.

The tournament will be a double elimination tournament. Pigtail matches are just that and do not guarantee a wrestler more than one match, Naugle said. Two mats will be placed in the Activity Center gym and two mats will be placed in the high school gym. The high school gym will also be the site of weigh-ins on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning. The weigh-in site has not changed from the past few years.

The Jan. 21 schedule begins with weigh-ins at 2 p.m. in the high school gym followed by a coaches’ meeting at 3 p.m. in the music room in the Activity Center. All wrestlers and managers should go to the Activity Center gym to be marked for admission. The cheerleaders should report to the band room in the Activity Center. The National Anthem will be performed at 4 p.m. in both gyms. Pigtails and championship first round will take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. with the Quarterfinals and first round consolation matches from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The 106-145 weight classes will compete in the high school gym and the 152-285 classes will compete in the Activity Center.

The Jan. 22 schedule begins with weigh-ins at 9 a.m. in the high school gym and coaches meeting at 9:20 a.m. in the music room in the Activity Center. Second round consolation takes place from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. with the 106-145 classes in the high school gym and the 158-285 classes in the Activity Center.

Semifinals and third round consolation take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with semifinals in the Activity Center and consolation in the high school gym.

Following a break, The National Anthem will be performed at 1:45 p.m. in the Activity Center. Consolation semifinals for all weights will take place from 1:45 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. in the Activity Center. Fifth and sixth place matches will be held from 2:45 p.m. to 3:50 p.m. in the Activity Center. Championship and third/fourth place matches will be held from 3:50 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Activity Center.

“All times are approximate: We will run ahead of schedule when possible,” Naugle said. “We greatly appreciate your continued support and coverage of Southwest Valley athletics. We are very excited about hosting such a great event again this year! We have some of the top wrestlers in Southwest Iowa in attendance and we expect this tournament to continue to be a great experience for everyone in attendance!”

​Holiday Light winners

Photo by Don Perrin — Erma Fuller, center, presents Quilts of Valor to Jay Little, left, and Bart Little on Dec. 22 at the Corning Hotel.

Two awarded
​Quilts of Valor

Two more Adams County veterans were awarded Quilts of Valor at 11 a.m. Dec. 22 at the Corning Hotel.

Erma Fuller presented quilts to Jay B. Little and Bart. W. Little. 

Jay B. Little served in the United Air Force from 1985 to 1998 and attained the rank of E-5 at the end of his service. He was deployed to Operation Desert Shield for six months, Operation Southern Watch for six months, and then Operation Desert Shield for another three months. 

Jay completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas. His assigned four months to Washington, D.C., for former President Bill Clinton’s second inauguration. His other assignments include Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Ariz.; Kunsan Air Base in South Korea; Soesterberg Air Base in the Netherlands; Rhein-Main Air Base in Frankfort, Germany; and Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, Nev. 

His quilt was pieced by Erma Fuller and quilted by Mary Kay Lambert

Bart W. Little served in the U.S. Army from Aug. 10, 1984 to Nov. 30, 2006. He was deployed to Operation Desert Storm, Operation Joint Guard, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Bart was stationed at Camp Casey, Korea; Fort Ord, California; Fort Brass, North Carolina; Baumholder, Germany; Youngsan, Korea; Panama (three deployments); and Saudi Arabia. Bart attained the rank of sergeant mayor E-9. He served 14 years on jump status as a U.S. paratrooper as jump master with 129 jumps.

His quilt was pieced by Erma Fuller and quilted by Mary Kay Lambert.

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Submitted photo — Adams County Sheriff Allan Johannes, right, presents Corning MATURA director Terri O’Grady, center, and MATUAR administrative assistant Kay Parrott with toys collected during the Christmas for Kids project.

Christmas for Kids brightens holiday

More than 30 local youngsters will have a bit more holiday cheer thanks to Norvell’s People in Need Coffee group’s Christmas for Kids project.

Christmas for Kids provides toys for children. This is the second year for the project.

“People in the Adams County community provided great support so that parents in the community could help their kids have a merry Christmas,” according to Brian Peterson with Norvell’s People in Need Coffee group.

The toys and donations are collected at the Adams County Sheriff’s Office then delivered to MATURA in Corning.

“I am new in the community and I am so excited about the generosity of people and organizations in the community,” Corning MATURA director Terri O’Grady said. “To have the Adams County Sheriff’s Department, the People in Need Coffee Group, SWV FFA, Kay Parrott administrative assistant at MATURA, and all of the volunteer workers at MATURA to join together to make this project successful is very gratifying. The joint efforts of these groups helped 13 families with 31 children have a wonderful Christmas!”

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office received most of the monetary donations and toys, then transported them to MATURA.

“The entire staff and I really enjoy being a part of this to help families in Adams County,” Adams County Sheriff Allan Johannes said. 
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Peterson said the group has already discussed changes that can be made in the project to make it even better in 2022.

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Sweet Desires
​gains new owner

Sweet Desires Bakery in Corning is now under new ownership.

Joleen and Rick Bissell sold Sweet Desires Nov. 8 to Pom Plathong, who has been working with the Bissells at the bakery.

The Bissells bought Sweet Desires 19 years ago and officially opened for business the first of November 2002.

“I didn’t know if a donut was baked or fried,” Joleen Bissell said.

Bissell said she and Rick bought the bakery at an auction Sept. 19, 2002, after it had been sitting empty for a year and had gone back to the bank. At the time she had been baking cakes at home and working for Red Star. At the auction, the building was up for sale first but a businessman there offered the Bissells a bit of advice: If they were interested in the bakery they should buy the building because landlords tend to increase the rent as a business shows profit.

“We decided if we can buy the bakery we would buy the contents,” she said.

They bought the building with their winning bid then began bidding on the bakery equipment and building contents piece by piece. By the end of the auction, the audience began clapping because the bakery would remain open in Corning. Bissell said the auctioneer told her it was the only time he had ever seen the crowd happy because a business had been sold.

“We cleaned for about a month and a half,” Bissell said following the auction.

Fortunately one of the former bakery owners was still in Corning so the Bissells got a bit of help in learning the bakery business.

“We had a three-day crash course,” she said. “I’ll tell you what, it was a learning experience but people were kind enough to keep coming back.”

Plathong, Sweet Desire’s new owner, is getting a bit more than a three-day crash course at the bakery. He’s been working with the Bissells since taking over the bakery. He’s also got a fair bit of experience as a baker — Plathong working at Jaarsma Bakery in Pella for 10 years.

Originally from Thailand, Plathong came to the U.S. in 2001. After working at Jaarsma, he got truckers license and drove a truck for about a year and a half. Then, about a year ago, when Plathong was speaking with Breadeaux owner Som Waddell, “Rick walked across the street to buy a pizza,” Plathong said.

Plathong showed interest in Sweet Desires but then COVID-19 hit and he forgot about the business. Then, over the summer, he got appendicitis while driving a truck and underwent surgery June 15. He then started discussion with the Bissells about Sweet Desires again.

Plathong put together a business plan and worked with the Small Business Administration to buy the business. He said when he had been a truck driver he told his wife, Ing Quang, that he was going to buy a truck and become an owner/operator. When we were going to buy the bakery she wanted to go with him to the bank.

“She thought I was going to buy a truck,” he said.

Plathong said he’s getting plenty of help running the new business. His mother recently returned from Thailand and has her COVID-19 vaccination so she helps with the frying at the bakery. He’s also benefiting from hands-on guidance from the former owners.

“They have a big heart,” he said about the Bissells. “They help me a lot to run the business. They teach me everything you’re supposed to know.”

Plathong’s experience at Jaarsma Bakery has helped with his transition as a new business owner. He said he may add a few items he learned to make there, such as Dutch letter pastries, to Sweet Desires’ menu but at the moment he’s adjusting to the new business and new community.

“Business is really, really good, especially the people,” he said.

As for the Bissells, it’s time to slow down a bit, Joleen said.

“There’s plenty of things to catch up with at home,” she said.

And there’s grandchildren, she said. Now there will be time to share with their active grandchildren.

Opera House hosts
​holiday happenings

The Festival of Trees is in full swing at the Corning Opera House.

Once again, the Corning Opera House is decorated with the Festival of Trees by 30 different volunteers and more than 100 volunteer hours. 

“Southwest Valley FFA starts the process by assembling the trees and then businesses, organizations and individuals decorate the trees,” Opera House executive director De Heaton said. “This year a couple of the fun trees are cowboy themed with lassos and horses; a white Grinch tree; a blue and white Frosty tree; and our picturesque trees in the turret are a red theme, plus many more.”

The trees are open for viewing Monday through Friday afternoons or by calling (641) 418-8037.

Lone Arranger is sponsoring a gingerbread house decorating event at 10 a.m. Dec. 11 at the Corning Opera House. The event is free and limited to the first 30 children ages 1 to 12. Each child will receive a pre-made kit of graham crackers and candies to assemble. The Opera House is located at 800 Davis Ave.

Polar Express Family Event will be held at 6 p.m. Dec. 11. Children fourth grade and younger are $3 and adults are $7 (when purchasing online, there is also a ticketing fee). All children must be accompanied by an adult. The evening involves storytelling, I Spy, Photo Booth Opportunity, hot cocoa bar, popcorn, prizes, and the movie. 

“Come in your pajamas, bring a pillow or blanket, find your spot in the auditorium, and enjoy your time,” Heaton said. 

During the month of December, the 2022 adult concert tickets purchased online will save 10 percent with the code Christmas10. Go to the website www.corningoperahouse.com calendar page and choose the event(s): Fun Pianos on Jan. 7, Hornucopia on Feb. 5, Jason Walsmith on March 4, or Sail On on April 2. Or save $5 on a $30 gift card. Both sales end Dec. 24.

For more information about the Opera House, contact Heaton at (641) 418-8037. Like and follow the Opera House on its Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest updates.

Submitted photo — The Norvell Houck Remembrance Meal and Fundraiser will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Corning Community Center.

Houck Remembrance returns

After a one-year absence due to COVID-19 precautions, Norvell’s People in Need Coffee Group is hosting The Norvell Houck Remembrance Meal and Fundraiser from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Corning Community Center, co-chairs Mike Mullen and Jim Amdor said.

“This will be an opportunity to have a great meal and a lot of fun with many other people from the community before you go home from an afternoon of shopping,” Amdor said.

 “The goal of the activity is to raise funds so that the coffee group can continue to provide financial assistance to charitable activities, organizations and people in need throughout the area,” Mullen said. 

“We were able to continue supporting people in need in the past year because of generous donations from people in the area even though we chose not to have the fundraiser last year, “according to Amdor.

The fundraiser will include an auction of a variety of donated items including a hand-stitched quilt and pillow case as well as a number of pies. Funds raised from the evening will continue to be used to assist families and individuals throughout the area just as Norvell’s People in Need has done for the past eight years.

“Norvell enjoyed helping people in need and our People in Need Coffee Group will continue this effort with the money donated, ” Mullen said.

“This will be a great way to end a day of Christmas shopping,” the co-chairs said. “It will be an opportunity to visit with friends in the community, have a great meal, take a pie home and all the time know you are helping people in need throughout the area.”

Those not able to attend can make donations at the Bank of Brooks at 701 Benton Ave., Corning, IA 50841 payable to Norvell’s People in Need. For more information, contact Mike Mullen at (641) 202-9494 or Jim Amdor at (712) 621-0879.

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Submitted photo — Adams County Sheriff Allan Johannes and Adams County MATURA outreach director Teri O’Grady are working with Norvell's People in Need Coffee Group to bring Christmas for Kids to Adams County for 2021.

Christmas for Kids returns

Brian Peterson with Norvell's People in Need Coffee Group announced the Christmas for Kids project that was initiated last year will be conducted again this year.  

 “We’re a little slow getting everything rolling but with the communities help again this year we can help all children in Adams County have a merry Christmas,” Peterson said.

Peterson said two very key people make this project a success: Adams County Sherriff Allan Johannes and Teri O’Grady, outreach director of the Adams County MATURA office.

Last year the group provided toys to 17 families and 44 youngsters for Christmas. There have been a few changes in the program for this year, O’Grady said.

“All of the donated toys and other items for the kids must be new,” she said.

This is a part of the requirements at all MATURA locations in an attempt to help keep people more safe from COVID-19.

Another change is completing an application, O’Grady said. 

“People wanting to use the service provided by MATURA will need to complete an application and turn the application to MATURA no later than Dec. 2, 2021,” she said. “There will not be any exceptions.”

Anyone wanting to donate toys can drop them off between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. any day of the week at the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Johannes said.

 “Monetary donations will also be accepted but they must be a check made out to MATURA with Christmas for Kids written in the notes section of the check,” he said.

Cash donations will not be accepted.   

Johannes said all of the staff in the Sheriff’s Office is excited about being a part of this program again to help the kids in Adams County. The staff will take all of the donated items to MATURA for them to get ready to display. The last day they will be accepting donations is Dec. 16.

Peterson said the group learned more about what youngsters are interested in following last year’s Christmas for Kids. He said some of the items youngsters like include Star Wars items, dolls, tractors and cars, coloring books, educational toys, makeup, shoes, or boots.  

“Hopefully this will help anyone wanting to donate items,” Peterson said.

Do not wrap donated items. 

The entire Adams County community working together will help make this a merry Christmas for all Adams County kids, Johannes, O’Grady, and Peterson said.

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CARIE MORALES/Free Press — Ten local veterans were presented Quilts of Valor during a Veterans Day celebration Nov. 11 at the Southwest Valley Activity Center. Front row from left are Michael L Selby, Dale Palmer, Jimmy Damewood, and Henry A. Sorenson. Back row from left are James E Rychnovsky, James Knapp, Nathan Grau, Ronald Helvie, Gina Hultz, and Gary D. Harter.

SWV honors local veterans

Southwest Valley schools honored local veterans with a Veterans Day celebration Nov. 11 at the SWV Activity Center.

Along with the posting of the colors by Williamson American Legion Post 719 members, guest speaker Ben Mullen with Iowa National Guard, thank-you cards for veterans from SWV Elementary School students, prayer by Corning United Methodist Church Pastor LeAnn Robine, and music by the SWV band and choir, Quilts of Valor were presented to 10 local veterans.

Receiving quilts were Michael L. Selby, Dale Palmer, Jimmy Damewood, Henry A. Sorenson, James E. Rychnovsky, James Knapp, Nathan Grau, Ronald Helvie, Gina Hultz, and Gary D Harter.

Michael “Mike” Selby of Corning served in the Iowa National Guard from October 1969 to October 1975. He was stationed in Louisiana. His Military Occupational Specialty was infantry-mortar. He attained the rank of E5 sergeant. His quilt was pieced by Judi Perrin and quilted by Jackie Orton.
Dale Palmer of Corning served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1971. He served in Vietnam, finished enrollment, and returned to Vietnam. He attained the rank of E5. His quilt was pieced by the SEW and SEW Quilters and quilted by Mary Kay Lambert and Bound by Donna Peckham.
Gina Hults of Villisca served in the Army from October 1989 to April 1999. Her MOS was 75D personal record specialist. She attained the rank of E4. Her quilt was pieced by Kathy Boswell
And quilted by Becky Rodger.

Henry “Hank” A. Sorenson of Corning served in the Air Force from June 17, 1970, to June 14, 1974. His MOS was aircraft electrical RPM. He served at Lackland Air Force Base, Oson, Korea, Minot, N.D., Koray, Thailand, and Clark AFB. He attained the rank of sergeant. His was pieced by Chris Nippert and quilted by Jackie Orton.

Nathan Gran served in the U.S. Navy from 1998 to 2006 during Operation Southern Watch and then following 9/11 served during Operation Enduring Freedom. He served as an aviation electronic technician. He was stationed with Squadron VQ1 at Whidbey Island Naval Air Station in Washington and then with Squadron VX20 at Patuxent River Naval Air Station in Maryland. He was discharged with the rank E-5, Petty Officer Second Class. His quilt pieced by Diane Walter and quilted by Marlene Mullin.

James Knapp served in the U.S. Army from January 1971 to November 1972. His duty stations included Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., for basic training, then Fort Polk, La., for advanced individual training, Fort Knox, Ky., for armored personal carrier drivers school, and Fort Riley, Kan., for his final duty station in an air-defense artillery unit and part of the 5th Army command as a senior gunner on a Chapparal missile defense system until maneuvers were finished. He finished the remainder of his military obligation as a company clerk. His rank at time of honorable discharge was Specialist 4. His quilt was pieced by Diane Walter and quilted by Marlene Mullin.

Jimmie “Jim” Damewood of Corning served in the Army and served from 1996 to 1968. He was deployed during the Vietnam War and was stationed at Northwest Saigon, Vietnam. His ending rank was Sergeant E5  and his MOS was tank gunner. His quilt was made by Judi Perrin and quilted by Jackie Orton.

James E. Rychnovsky of Prescott served in the Army from Dec. 31, 1953, to Dec. 21, 1955. He was stationed at Fort Riley, Fort Leonard Wood and Fort Ord. He served between the Korean War and the Vietnam War. His ending rank was Specialist 4. His quilt was pieced by Chris Nippert and quilted by Becky Rodgers.

Ronald Lee Helvie of Corning served in the National Guard from October 1970 to October
1976 and from February 1978 to February 1979. He was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood. His MOS was 84. His ending rank was Specialist 4. His quilt was pieced by Chris Nippert and quilted by Becky Rodgers.

Gary D. Harter of Corning served in the Marine Corps from 1954 to 1963. In the fall of 1954 he joined on a G.I. Bill after studying and preparing for the U. S. Naval Reserve. He also took classes for officer training then enlisted as a seaman recruit. He was on a Navy scholarship. The summer of 1956 he was on four-week cruise abroad the battleship USS Wisconsin. His MOS was combat engineer and hid ending rank was 1st Lieutenant. His Quilt is an Adams County Fair block contest quilt purchased as a kit purchased. The top was pieced by Kathy Boswell and quilted by Becky Rodgers.

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Reindeer Games
​to light up Main Street

Reindeer Games is the theme for the 23rd Annual Holiday Lighted Parade.

The Main Street Events and Marketing Committee will host the parade Nov. 27. The holiday tradition attracts guests to Corning from around the area.

All entries are free but each entry must be lighted in some way. The entry deadline is Nov. 22.
Prizes will be awarded for Most Entertaining, Best Theme Related, Best Light Display, and Most Creative.

Parade line-up begins at 5:30 p.m. on Fifth Street and Davis Avenue. The parade route will begin on Sixth Street and Benton. Entrants will be contacted by a member of the parade committee by Nov. 24 concerning placement number. Entries will be judged during the line-up.

For safety and protection of all parade participants and bystanders, the parade committee requests no candy be thrown, although walkers can hand out candy, and no live fire or flames. Parade participants must be secured to the float. All floats must be in good taste and in the spirit of the season. Floats can be disqualified if rules are not followed.

To enter or for more information, contact Main Street Corning at 710 Davis Ave. or call (641) 322-3243.

Retail Open House
​is Nov. 5-6

The holiday season gets under way Nov. 5-6 when Main Street Corning hold its annual Retail Open House.

Businesses will be open until 6 p.m. Nov. 5 and until 3 p.m. Nov. 6.

Among the events and activities is the Corning Opera House’s annual Holiday Boutique Vendor Fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 6.  The vendor fair is free to attend. Handmade items and those from home based-businesses such as Color Street, Norwex, Pampered Chef, Lula Roe, and others will be available. For the most up-to-date vendor list, follow the Opera House Facebook page at CorningOperaHouse or visit www.corningoperahouse.com. 

The Handmade Market will also take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 6 at the Activity Center at Ninth and Loomis in Corning.

Small Business Saturday will take place Nov. 27 along with the Southwest Iowa Shop Hop Vendor Fair, which is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The annual tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for 6 p.m. Nov. 26 at Central Park in Corning. The Holiday Lighted Parade will be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 27.

COVID boosters
​gain approval

In an effort to strengthen protection for people most likely to have severe COVID illness, the Centers for Disease Control has approved the use of booster doses of the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines, according to Taylor County Public Health Agency administrator Crystal Drake.

Drake said Pfizer booster doses were approved for use last month. The latest recommendations makes boosters possible for all three vaccines authorized in the United States. The recommendations include:

Moderna boosters
It must be at least six months since a person completed the initial series of Moderna or Pfizer vaccine

The following people should get a booster:

• People 65 years of age and older

• Residents of long-term care settings

• People aged 18 years and older with underlying medical conditions (examples of these include cancer, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, chronic lung disease, dementia, down syndrome, heart conditions, overweight and obesity)

• People aged 18 years of age and older who are at an increased risk due to where they work or live (such as institutional settings)

Individuals can self-report that they are eligible under these recommendations
Johnson and Johnson boosters

The booster dose needs to be at least two months after the first shot of Johnson & Johnson vaccine
 For individuals 18 years and older

Pfizer boosters
It must be at least six months since a person completed the initial series of Moderna or Pfizer vaccine

The following people should get a booster:

• People 65 years of age and older

• Residents of long-term care settings

• People aged 18 years and older with underlying medical conditions (examples of these include cancer, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, chronic lung disease, dementia, down syndrome, heart conditions, overweight and obesity)

• People aged 18 years of age and older who are at an increased risk due to where they work or live (such as institutional settings)

Individuals can self-report that they are eligible under these recommendations 

Mix and match use
Earlier this week, the Food and Drug Administration amended the Emergency Use Authorizations for COVID-19 vaccines to allow for the use of each of the available COVID-19 vaccines as a heterologous (or “mix and match”) booster dose in eligible individuals following completion of primary vaccination with a different available COVID-19 vaccine, Drake said. CDC’s recommendations now allow for this type of mix and match dosing for booster shots. Mix and match dosing may be considered for the booster dose only.

“These boosters can begin immediately,” Drake said. “Vaccine supply is good and is available throughout Taylor and Adams counties from clinics, pharmacies and public health. We encourage you to talk with your health care provider if you have questions on which booster dose is right for you.”

Taylor County Health will hold two COVID-19 vaccine clinics in November. These will be for anyone needing their initial or boost dose of any COIVD-19 vaccine. The first clinic will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 13 at the Corning Community Center. The second clinic will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 20 at the United Christian-Presbyterian Church in Bedford.

“If you can’t make these dates, please contact one of our other vaccine providers,” Drake said.
Those provides include Bedford Drug (712) 523-2385; NuCara Pharmacy in Lenox (641) 333-2260; HyVee Pharmacy in Corning (641) 322-3454; CHI Clinic in Bedford (712) 523-2196; CHI Clinic in Lenox (641) 333-2266; CHI Clinic in Corning (641) 322-5245; and Greater Regional Clinic in Corning (641) 322-4431.

“The vaccine is the best tool we have to keep ourselves and our families healthy and to prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death from the COVID-19 virus,” Drake said

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School board candidates share statements

Editor’s note: In an effort to help Adams County voters be fully informed before going to the polls, The Adams County Free Press asks local candidates in contested races to replay to a candidate questionnaire. In the Corning Community Schools election, Howard E. Anderson, James Houck, Misty Johnson, and Staci Venteicher are vying for three district director seats. The following are the candidates’ statements.

Howard Anderson
Occupation: Retired school teacher (38 years) and farmer
Date of birth: Dec. 22, 1952
Years in Adams County: 68 years
Family: Wife, Deanna; daughter, Betsy and husband, David; grandchildren Dylan and Dayna; daughter, Emily; son, Blake
Previous political experience: Corning Community School board member for eight years; Adams County trustee, Nodaway Township for 11 years

Summarize why you are seeking office: Educating our youth is very important to me as I have two grandchildren and 12 great nieces and nephews that attend Southwest Valley Schools. I want to continue working to keep our schools strong and support our students through curriculum, facilities, and finances.

What do you see as the three greatest issues that Southwest Valley Schools face and what solutions do you have for dealing with these issues?

The issues I see are keeping qualified, competent teachers, use of multiple means of communication to inform people in both school districts with the whole grade sharing agreement, and the continual upkeep of all facilities.

Teachers need to feel valued and respected and need positive, uplifting reinforcement. The use of multiple resources to communicate to all people and not rely on one source. All building personnel need to have unified information shared with them. The facilities need upkeep done in a timely manner before it becomes an issue.

What is your vision for the district and Adams County for the next four to 15 years? My vision for the district is to move forward and become a consolidated district so we can work as one district. The district's revenues and finances will need to be aligned for this to happen.

James Houck
Occupation: Sixth generation Farmer
Date of birth: May 1, 1986
Years in Adams County: I have spent my entire life in Adams County.
Family: I have a wife (Caitlyn) and three sons (Camden, Kasen, and Carter)
Previous political experience: School board member 2017-present.

Summarize why you are seeking office: I am seeking a second term because I enjoy the work that goes into it, the relationships that come from it, and the challenges that arise day in and out.

What do you see as the three greatest issues that Southwest Valley Schools face and what solutions do you have for dealing with these issues?

The greatest issues I see are enrollment, staffing, and funding. Most public schools have these same headwinds currently. We need jobs that will attract people to our district. We need decent housing that can accommodate and attract the bus driver or the teacher we are trying to hire. The need for federal and state aid will never become redundant. Each child that walks through the door has a check with $7,000, metaphorically speaking, for our district. Those funds keep the motor running, but also help buffer against property tax increases. When we lose kids out of the district those funds go out the door with them.

What is your vision for the district and Adams County for the next four to 15 years? 
My vision going out four years would be to keep working toward our goal of increased enrollment and retainment of staff, from the janitors to administrators. Working with local business leaders and economic development committees to keep employers and employees in the city and county for the long haul is something I feel will be vital to our community and our school. We need to keep our heads down, roll up our sleeves, and keep marching forward. We are fortunate to have what we have, but also for who we have here at SWV.

Misty Johnson
Occupation: Business owner
Date of birth: Oct. 17, 1979
Years in Adams County: Lifelong resident of 42 years
Family: Husband, Andrew Johnson; daughter, Bella Johnson; daughter, Sophia Johnson
Previous political experience: While I have never held a political office before, I have been very active in attending school board meetings, supervisor meetings, city council meetings, and campaign events for other political candidates for a number of years. I’ve also been on several committees locally including both school and community committees.

Summarize why you are seeking office: I am running for the Corning School Board because our students and staff deserve to have representatives on the board fighting for their freedom to learn and their freedom to teach. I am unhappy with the events of the past 18 months and how it has negatively impacted our school district. Our children deserve a right to an excellent education and I’m running for office to ensure that they get it. 

What do you see as the three greatest issues Southwest Valley Schools face and what solutions do you have for dealing with these issues?
Freedom is my No. 1 issue. I will do everything in my power to ensure our children and staff never again have to either wear a mask to attend in-person school or be forced to do online learning. Online learning is not a good alternative for in person education. My solution? Keeping the current policy of freedom of choice to wear masks.

My second concern is critical race theory being taught in our schools. We are all aware this is infiltrating some school districts. While I believe that SWV does not participate in this educational material I want to ensure that it stays that way. My solution? Be a voice for myself and all of our other parents who disagree with critical race theory.

My third concern is our school lunches. I hear complaints from students, staff, and administration that the meals offered are tasteless and have quantity issues. They mostly consist of prepackaged preservative laden convenience reheat and serve food. What happened to the days of homemade chili and cinnamon rolls? As we all know, there are several students who rely on a good school lunch for their main source of nutrition. We should be making sure they are getting it. My solution? Analyzing the meal budget and making adjustments to ensure our kids are getting quality, tasty meals while at school.

What is your vision for the district for the next four to 15 years? 
I want SWV to be the destination district that we have been striving to become. I want to be the district that parents want their children to attend and that educators want to teach at. I want to be the district that offers the best classes, both required and elective, and has the qualified staff to teach them. I want to be the district that not only prepares our students for college who choose that route but also prepares our students for life, whether that be going to work immediately after graduation or being an apprentice to hone their technical skills while receiving on the job training and education. I want to be the district that provides options and education for all our students and prepares them for whichever direction they choose to go. I want to be the district of opportunity.

Staci Venteicher
Occupation: I am the director of Clinics at Montgomery County Memorial Hospital (MCMH) in Red Oak, Iowa. I have worked there for almost 15 years. I have five clinics that I am responsible for the day-to-day administrative tasks, such as hiring of staff, developing goals and objectives, improving efficiency of departments, preparing department budgets, and developing policies.
Date of birth: May 18, 1978
Years in Adams County: All of my life … I was born and raised in Adams County. I attended college in Des Moines. After graduation I moved back to raise my family in Adams County.
Family: I am married to Pat Venteicher and we have three children. Pat works at Hy-Vee in Corning in the Meat Department where he has been employed for 28 years. Our twins, Blaine and Blake, graduated in 2021 from SWV. Blaine is attending Iowa State University (ISU) and Blake is attending University of Iowa (Iowa). Brinkley is in fourth grade at Corning Elementary.
Previous political experience: No

Summarize why you are seeking office: My efforts as a school board member would center on serving all children in the community; all children deserve equal opportunities. We need to create a long-term vision, mapping a course that provides the necessary skills that children need to reach their fullest potential. We want to provide the best education to all children. Serving on the school board is a challenging job that requires leadership, vision and dedication. I feel I have those skills. Together as a team, we will set expectations, vote on budget, and where tax money is spent. A school board member is the link between the community and school. Those who support me can absolutely count on me and, if elected I will lead. I am not a superhero, but change and improvement are needed.
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What do you see as the three greatest issues Southwest Valley Schools face and what solutions do you have for dealing with these issues? 
1) Building repairs and maintenance: Not only should Southwest Valley care about education but we also need to care about our facilities. Continuing to repair the same things time after time is not good stewards of our resources. A recent example of this is the high school roof needs to be repaired. When going to the auditorium you see water stained ceiling tiles, missing tiles, and buckets of water. My solution is making sure that money is spent on quality work that will sustain for years to come.
2) School breakfast/lunches: It has been brought to my attention that the breakfast/lunch program at our school is undesirable. The portion size is small and the food doesn’t have much flavor. A lot of kids are throwing their food away, which is a waste of money. Most of these meals are prepackaged or out of a can, not the healthiest. We need to work on serving larger nutritious portions because many kids rely on this. Another concern is there isn’t enough allotted time to eat lunch. My daughter is in elementary and tells me many kids are rushed to finish eating. We need to serve healthy, tasty meals with a larger portion size because we know that kids learn better on a full stomach. If I am elected I’d see if we can reevaluate the monies for this department to better accommodate the kids.
3) Parent/teacher engagement: I feel we need to talk with the parents, teachers and the students to address the lack of communication and work with the school to help solve this problem. Parent and family engagement is imperative to the student’s educational success. Parents and families must be recognized as partners in the education of our children because when parents are involved, attendance is better, grades get higher, test scores go up. Students accomplish the most when parents, teachers and students work together. 
 
What is your vision for the district for the next four to 15 years? 
My vision is to continue to keep the enrollment numbers up in the school district. By moving forward and working with our community we will attract the best teachers, staff, and graduate students with high academic honors. My goal for the students of Southwest Valley School District is that every student be prepared for the future and return to this community to help others achieve their dreams

Auditor’s Office prepares for Nov. 2 election

The Adams County Auditor’s Office is making preparations for the upcoming city/school election on Nov. 2.

There were significate changes to voting rules that have taken effect since the last election that should be noted. For a more detailed explanation and for forms, visit https://adamscounty.iowa.gov/departments/adams-county-auditor/election-information/.

Polls will be open on Election Day are from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m., which is one hour earlier than before. The polls will now close at 8 p.m. for all elections. For the city/school election, all of Adams County polling locations will be open which include: Adams 1 - Corning Community Center, Adams 2 - Corning Public Library, Adams 3 - Redeemer Lutheran Church, Adams 4 - Nodaway Community Center, and Adams 5 - Prescott City Hall/Library.

The voter pre-registration deadline, if residents are not registered or have moved, is Monday, Oct. 18. After this day, a person may register to vote at the Auditor’s Office and vote an absentee ballot or register to vote on Election Day using Election Day registration procedures.

Absentee ballot request forms are currently being accepted by the Auditor’s Office. State law prohibits the auditor from sending request forms to all voters in the county. Residents may personally request an absentee ballot request form by calling the Auditor’s Office at (641) 322-3340, by downloading a form from the county election website, or by visiting the Iowa Secretary of State’s website and returning it to the Auditor’s Office. The auditor must receive absentee ballot request forms by Monday, Oct. 18, if one wishes to have a ballot mailed and the Auditor’s Office will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. that day.

The auditor will begin mailing absentee ballots to those who have requested one on Wednesday, Oct. 13. This is also the first day that voters can vote absentee in person at the Auditor’s Office. The last day to vote an absentee ballot in person at the Auditor’s Office is Monday, Nov. 1. The auditor must receive absentee ballots by the close of the polls, which is 8 p.m. on Election Day. All returned absentee ballots must be either returned by mail or hand delivered to the Auditor’s Office inside the courthouse. Adams County will not have an Official Drop Box outside the courthouse and ballots should not be placed in the mailbox. This is a change from last year. 

For additional information regarding exceptions, details, and more law changes, contact the Adams County Auditor’s Office at (641) 322-3340.

Undefeated Red Raiders celebrate anniversary

Former players, coaches, cheerleaders and fans assembled in Corning over the recent homecoming weekend to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 1971 Corning Red Raider football season.

The team rolled to a 9-0 record and were Tall Corn Conference Champions and later named mythical state champions by the Des Moines Register.

Several members of that team assembled for the Southwest Valley homecoming parade, and later gathered at The Winery to celebrate the accomplishment and reminisce about those glory days. Former head coach Jim Redel and defensive coordinator Percy Stielow were part of the celebration and the players thanked them for their leadership and the life lessons they instilled.

The team was also recognized that evening at the Southwest Valley homecoming scrimmage with coach and player introductions and a recap of that magical season to an appreciative crowd.

“It was fantastic,” Redel said about the homecoming celebration. “I don’t know how it could have been any better.”

Jim Redel came to Corning as head football coach in 1969 as Corning was participating in its final year as part of the Hawkeye Seven Conference with plans to join the Tall Corn Conference the following season, which would pit them against schools of similar size. That first Redel team ended the season 5-5 by winning its last two games while starting several underclassmen throughout the season. The 1970 team went 8-1 and were conference co-champs and state-ranked throughout the season setting the stage for the 1971 season.

“They were pretty darn good,” Redel said of his team.

Redel said he realized early on the Red Raiders had potential. He said five of the team members played as sophomores in 1969 and that turned into a strong nucleus for 1970 and 1971.

“The groundwork was laid two years before I got there and they just followed through with it,” he said. “I just happened to be there at the right place the right time.”

During the 1971 season the team outscored their opponents 318-33, won the conference title, and moved up the state rankings until they were named the No. 1 team in Class 2A in the final rankings. (There were four classes then with the playoffs starting the following season.) The 1971 team was experienced, balanced, and deep. Coach Percy Stielow who was hired the year before as head basketball and assistant football coach fashioned a strong defense that pitched several shutouts that season. 

“They were very talented on defense,” Stielow said. 

An article about the Corning program appeared in the Nov. 9, 1971, Des Moines Register showing the final state rankings and featuring the team. The headline read, “Corning Ends Grid Doormat Role,” and “So-So Team to Class Champs in 3 Years.” Coach Redel was quoted in the article saying, “we had a lot of carryover this year. I’m sure the kids realized early on they had the potential to go 9-0.” 

Coach Redel went on to say, “it’s been a case of a lot of kids doing their jobs. We’ve had great balance between our offense and defense having averaged more than 400 yards per game to our opponents’ 120.” That success continued under Redel the next two seasons with his teams going 7-2 and 8-1. Redel’s five years in Corning are the school’s most successful gridiron run with an overall record of 37 wins and only nine losses.

Stielow said the Red Raiders’ success in ’71 extended beyond the football field.

“Not only did they have a championship in football they also made it to sub-state in basketball, which tells you what kind of talent they had,” he said.

The team would like to thank Southwest Valley activities director Allen Naugle and Corning Alumni director Linda Shearer as well as the many volunteers who made the event happen.

Stielow said the homecoming celebration was a highlight.

“It was neat to see them and talk to them again,” he said about the former players. “The great part about it was what a tremendous crowd that was there. It was really neat going down to the field in that large a crowd.”

“They were a very deserving team. They were very dedicated,” Redel said. “The kids did it all. We just had a group that went out and did their job and did it well.

Once Upon A Homecoming

Candidates vie for municipal, school seats

Corning voters will see two contested races on the local ballot in the Nov. 2 election.

Four candidates have filed to fill three four-year terms on the Corning Community Schools Board of Education. Howard E. Anderson, James Houck, Misty Johnson, and Stace Venteicher will appear on the ballot.

Two candidates — Dalton Davis and Christopher Gilbert — will face off for Corning City Council at large, a four-year term. Jerry Peckham is unopposed for the four-year Ward 2 seat as is Janice M. Leonard for another two-year term as mayor.

The city of Carbon ballot includes John Gebbie for mayor and David B. Clark, Donna Rochau, and Michael Kempton for City Council. There are five two-year terms to be filled.

The city of Nodaway will see Patricia Shipley for mayor and Gary Poen, Fred Graf, Brenda Dunn, Rebecca Poen, and Christina Dunn for City Council. All are two-year terms.

The city of Prescott ballot includes Lisa Wilkinson for a two-year term as mayor, Glen Hickman and Jason Mitchell for a four-year term on City Council, and Linda Adams for Council TFV with a term to expire in 2024. A third four-year term for City Council remains open.

For more election information, contact the Adams County Auditor’s office at (641) 322-3340 or visit the Adams County website at adamscounty.iowa.gov under the Elections section.

Public Health shares COVID recommendations

With an increase in COVID-19 cases in Southwest Iowa, Taylor County Public Health Agency is reminding area residents to isolate following exposure to reduce the risk of spreading of the virus.

“As more cases continue to be seen in our communities, we see a rise in phone calls regarding isolation, returning to work and if household contacts can go to school/work,” Taylor County Public Health Agency administrator Crystal Drake said. “We thought it would be good to review what the current recommendations are for persons sick with COVID-19 and those that have had an exposure.”

Those sick with COVID-19 are considered infections 48 hours prior to symptom onset and for an additional 10 days after symptoms start, Drake said. It is important for individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 or suspect they may have COVID-19 remain isolated to stop the spread. Current guidance instruct these individuals to isolate and not return to normal activities until the following items are met:

• 10 days since symptoms first appeared and;

• Fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications and;

• Symptoms are improving.

“It’s important for everyone experiencing an illness to stay home while they are ill, even if they test negative for COVID-19 or receive an alternative diagnosis,” Drake said. “When we look at those that have been exposed to a positive case as a close contact or a household member, we provide the following recommendations to help reduce the risk of spread to other people, especially vulnerable populations.”

Unvaccinated, asymptomatic contacts are advised to stay home to monitor for symptoms, Drake said. To help further reduce risk of spreading the virus, unvaccinated people who are exposed but remain healthy (no symptoms) can be advised to stay home to monitor for symptoms. Individuals exposed to COVID-19 may develop symptoms from 2-14 days after exposure. However, exposed individuals can reduce the length of time they are recommended to stay home from 14 days via the following options:

• Stay home through day 10 if no symptoms have developed.

• Stay home through day 7 if the exposed person tests negative and no symptoms have developed. The specimen must be collected within 48 hours before leaving the home (i.e. not earlier than day 5).

In all cases, the individual should continue to monitor for symptoms and are recommended to wear a mask when around others through day 14 in order to minimize risk of spread.

Vaccinated contacts do not need to stay home, but should monitor for symptoms and get tested, Drake said. Fully vaccinated people with no COVID-like symptoms do not need to stay home following an exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19. However, fully vaccinated people should still self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days following an exposure.

Fully vaccinated people who experience COVID-19 symptoms should stay home, be clinically evaluated, and be tested for COVID-19 infection if clinically indicated.

Contacts who have tested positive for COVID-19 within the past three months do not need to stay home, but should monitor for symptoms. People who have tested positive for COVID-19 within the past three months do not need to stay home or be tested following an exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, as long as they do not develop new symptoms. However, they should still self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days following an exposure.

People who develop COVID-19 symptoms within three months of their first COVID-19 infection should stay home, be clinically evaluated, and be tested for COVID-19 infection if clinically indicated.
Unvaccinated contacts who have tested antibody positive within three months before or immediately following an exposure are generally not advised to stay home, but should monitor for symptoms, Drake said. Unvaccinated people who have tested antibody positive (IgG, IgM, or Total Antibody) within three months before or immediately following an exposure to someone with confirmed COVID-19 and who have remained asymptomatic since the current COVID-19 exposure do not need to stay home in low risk situations. High risk situations include settings where contact with persons at high risk of COVID-19 severe illness, including older adults and persons with certain medical conditions, is not anticipated for at least 10 days following exposure.

Contacts should still monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 during the 14 days after exposure and if symptoms develop they should stay home and seek testing. 

“We are not dealing with the same virus as we did last year at this time,” Drake said. “The current variant is more contagious. Please consider the environment where you live, work and play to assess the risks if you were to become sick with COVID or any other illness. Take appropriate precautions while keeping those around you in mind."

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DON GROVES/Free Press — Corning Main Street executive director Raelynne Risser poses for a photo Sept. 1 at her desk at the Lauvstad Center at 710 Davis Ave. in Corning.

Main Street names
​new director

Corning Main Street has hired a new executive director.

Bedford native Raelynne Risser took over the position Aug. 19.

With a background in radio marketing, Risser said she’s eager to work with small businesses, “the ones who really need the help.”

Risser said Main Street Corning has been a part of her life she was a child but after speaking with Adams Community Chamber executive director Marti Gebbie she gained a better appreciation of how unique the community is. 

“I think I can really make a difference,” Risser said.

As a child, Risser said her mother would take her to the dentist in Corning and would stop at Sweet Desires for a donut on the way home. But, Risser said, she wasn’t allowed to eat the donut until she returned home because she had to allow for her fluoride treatment.

Risser said she gained an even better understanding of just how strong community support was after attending Shameless!, Nebraska Showdowns Tribute to Garth Brooks, at the Corning Opera House. She said Opera House executive director De Heaton told her how fire destroyed the building, originally the National Bank, and damaged other downtown businesses but local businessman Frederick Charles Reese worked with community donors for a bank loan to bring the Opera House to Corning.

Risser attended Bedford High School and moved to Maryville following graduation, got married, and had two sons, now 3-1/2 and 2 years old. Risser said she plans to move to Corning in October but for now is focused on upcoming events such as the Sept. 18 the Southwest Cruisers of Iowa’s seventh annual Johnny Carson Birthplace Car Show and downtown trick or treat on Oct. 29.

“I’m excited to be here,” she said. “There’s plenty to do.”

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Delta variant on the rise

A recent increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations in Iowa seem to have one thing in common — the Delta variant.

Taylor County Public Health Agency administrator Crystal Drake said Aug. 26 she and her colleagues continue to see rising COVID-19 case numbers in the region.

“Over the past week, 100 percent of the variant sequencing completed at the State Hygienic Lab has been for the Delta variant — we will most likely continue to see this trend,” she said. “Since we know that the Delta variant is more contagious, the trend of new cases will also continue.”

Drake said public health colleagues continue to share stories of increased hospitalization and lack of bed availability in Iowa with the same story in Missouri.

“We understand that COVID cases will continue to be reported but we want to limit death and the strain on our healthcare system,” she said.

The Iowa Department of Public Health issued a press release Aug. 25 that said the majority of current COVID-19 hospitalizations are among unvaccinated Iowans. On Aug. 25, 79 percent of individuals hospitalized with a primary COVID-19 diagnosis were not vaccinated and 86 percent of patients in the ICU were not vaccinated before becoming infected. The hospitalization rate is currently highest among middle age to older adults. Eighty-seven percent of those hospitalized are age 40 and older. Children under the age of 18 account for just 2 percent of COVID-19 hospitalizations.

“One of the best tools we have to keep ourselves and loved ones safe is the vaccine,” Drake said. “Preventing avoidable COVID-19 hospitalizations also helps preserve health care resources for other needs, including illnesses, injuries and emergencies. Some Iowa hospitals have recently reported an increase in hospitalizations among children with RSV, limiting their bed capacity for other patients.”

Drake said hospitals in the region are sharing COVID-19 hospitalization statistics. Hospitals in Adams, Audubon, Cass, Crawford, Fremont, Harrison, Montgomery, Page, Pottawattamie and Shelby counties report their statistics on a daily basis that are then combined into regional and state-wide reporting at https://coronavirus.iowa.gov/pages/rmcc-data.

“We also encourage people to get tested if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms,” Drake said. “Effective testing is essential in helping slow the spread of the virus by identifying those who have the virus and enabling treatment and isolation.”

Testing is available through primary care providers and with free test kits that can be picked up at local pharmacies and public health. 

“If you test positive through one of these testing methods, most likely you will receive a call from our office to review isolation/quarantine recommendations,” Drake said. “Our intent is to help you contain the spread within our family and social circle.”

Other testing is available from retailers that may be advertised as a BinaxNOW or home test, Drake said. 
​
“If using one of these tests, we encourage you to call your healthcare provider or public health 

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SWV welcomes
​new teachers

Southwest Valley Schools welcomed 10 teachers at the district’s orientation.

While some of the teachers are new to the district, others transitioned from one SWV school to another. The new teachers include Marissa Kiner and Gina Travis at the elementary school; Destiney McCuen, Macy Burgess, Kelsey Mead, and Becca Ridnour at the middle school; and Jennifer Bissell, Micayla Taylor, Jerry Hartman, and Stephanie Riley at the high school.

Information about Kiner and Travis was unavailable at press time but background about the other teachers follows.

Middle school

Destiney McCuen teaches middle school English. She grew up in Villisca and was actually a member of the last graduating class of Villisca in 2013. She received my Bachelor's Degree in Secondary English Language Arts in 2020 from Buena Vista University. 

“My husband CJ and I have two children, Cecil and Michelle,” she said. “In my free time I enjoy reading, being outside with my kiddos, and play video games such as Fortnite, Pokemon, or Animal Crossing.”

Macy Burgess teaches middle school computers/PLTW/DM. She grew up in Villisca and graduated from SWV in 2017. 

“I then attended Central College in Pella, Iowa, and received my bachelor’s degree in 2021 after majoring in sociology and psychology,” she said. “I am currently working towards my master’s degree in child, youth and family studies with a specialization in human and family services administration through the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family, traveling, and crafting.”

Kelsey Mead teaches sixth ELA/reading. Born in Omaha, Neb., she grew up in Clarinda and graduated from Clarinda High School in 2010. 

“I received my bachelor’s degree from Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Mo.,” she said. “I started teaching in 2016 at Lenox Community Schools as the junior high/high school special education teacher. My significant other is Dakin Wilcoxson. We have three children: Nash, Berkley, and Brinley. We live in New Market, Iowa. In my free time I enjoy spending time with our children, fishing, listening to podcasts, working out, and reading.”

Becca Ridnour teaches middle school math/science. She grew up on a farm south of Red Oak and graduated from Red Oak High School. She attended Northwest Missouri State University where she received a bachelor’s degree in elementary and early childhood education and a master’s degree in reading.

“I have spent a lot of time in elementary classrooms, specifically third grade,” she said. “I live in Clarinda with my husband, Harry, and our two children. I enjoy being outside, crafting, making shirts, and spending time with family.”

High school

Jennifer Bissell is the high school guidance counselor. She grew up in O’Fallon, Mo., and received a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in physical education and coaching from William Jewell College in 2006. 

“I pursued my master’s in education in school counseling from Buena Vista University,” she said. “I began my counseling career in 2008 at Corning Schools, later transferring to Griswold Schools and now in 2021 I am excited to be back at SWV. My husband, Justin, and I reside in Corning with our dogs, Lilly and Lina, and our cat, Stripes. We enjoy spending our free time riding our side by side in Oklahoma, cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals, and spending time with our family and friends.”

Micayla Taylor teaches high school physical education.

“I grew up in Red Oak, Iowa and graduated from Red Oak High School in 2015,” Taylor said. “I attended Northwest Missouri State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in K-12 physical education. I taught K-12 P.E. and health in Murray, Iowa, for one year. I will now teach high school P.E. and weight training at Southwest Valley. I enjoy running, lifting, sports, and being outdoors.”

Jerry Hartman is a high school science teacher and coach.

“I grew up on the family farm in Pomeroy, Iowa,” he said. "I graduated from Iowa State University and have been a teacher at the high school and community college level. I’ve coached football, basketball, bowling, soccer and baseball. I am married and have four kids.”

Stephanie Riley is a high school special education teacher. She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a special education endorsement from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa.

“I later added a high school special education endorsement through Iowa State, and this past year I completed coursework for a math endorsement through Western Governor’s University,” she said. “I have taught at Pleasantville, Roland-Story, and Mt. Ayr in the past. I was excited to join the Southwest Valley School District last year where I worked at the middle school, and now this year I look forward to teaching at the high school."

Candidate filing
​begins Aug. 23

Monday, Aug. 23, is the first day to file nomination papers with the Adams County Auditor for the cities within Adams County.  

Aug. 23 is also the first day to file nomination papers with the secretary of the school board for school board positions. For more information on how to file nomination papers and other filing requirements, contact the Adams County Auditor for city positions and Jodi Lyddon at Southwest Valley Schools for school board positions. The deadline to file papers for both regular city elections and school elections is 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 16.

Tuesday, Aug. 24, is the first day that the Auditor’s Office can accept absentee ballot requests for the regular city/school election which will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 2. For this and other related election information, contact the Auditor’s office at (641) 322-3340 or visit the Adams County website at adamscounty.iowa.gov under the Elections section.

Survey to study
pandemic’s impact

Adams Community business owners are being asked to take part in a survey about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Adams Community Economic Development Corporation and the Adams Community Chamber are working with the Southern Iowa Council of Governments to survey businesses in Adams County and the SICOG region to determine impacts to date from the pandemic and potentially develop programs to assist community businesses.

Local businesses are encouraged to take a few moments to go online and complete the survey at https://iastate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_25C9xnLcrbWcN2S, ACEDC executive director Beth Waddle said.

“As a local business if the Chamber or ACEDC has your e-mail address you should receive an e-mail around Aug. 10 or 11 with a direct link to the survey,” Waddle said. “It only takes a few minutes, and we would appreciate your quick response. If you don’t see an e-mail, please contact either office and a link will be sent to you. This survey will only be open for a few days.”

SICOG has engaged Iowa State University Extension and Outreach to facilitate the development of the strategy, which has multiple components that include economic data analysis, labor market trends, innovation indicators, and this regional survey.  

Survey
A survey has been developed for the SICOG region (Adair, Adams, Clarke,  Decatur,  Madison, Ringgold, Taylor, and Union) that will gather information from business responses to assist in developing the strategy as previously mentioned.  This survey will be accessed online via a hyperlink with all responses being confidential and submitted to Iowa State University. The survey has been developed with six sections that include an overview of the business/organization, workforce, financial, future/outlook, and an opportunity for any other comments, suggestions, or thoughts by the respondent.  
​
Results and integration
The results of the survey will be integrated into the overall Pandemic Economic Recovery Strategy, which will be available on the SICOG website for review and download.  
For more information, contact the ACEDC office at (641) 322-5229 or the Chamber office at (641) 322-3243.

Delta variant reaches Adams County

Taylor County Public Health said it will once again began offering weekly COVID-19 data reports after cases of the COVID-19 Delta variant were confirmed in Taylor and Adams counties.

Taylor County Public Health administrator Crystal Drake said that Adams County saw two more COVID-19 cases July 21-28 while Taylor County saw one new case. The fully vaccination rate for Adams County is 44 percent while Taylor County is 38.8 percent.

“In an effort to ensure accurate and consistent information is provided to residents, we will resume reporting of COVID-19 data for Taylor and Adams County on a weekly basis,” Drake said. “This will occur every Wednesday to coincide with the state’s COVID-19 dashboard updates.”

Both Taylor and Adams Counties have confirmed cases of the Delta variant, Drake said.

“The Delta variant (B.1.617.2) is currently the most common COVID-19 virus strain circulating around in the U.S., the region, and in Iowa,” Drake said. The Delta variant was originally found in India in December 2020 and was first seen in the US in March 2021. The Delta variant creates a tremendous amount of virus in the body — far more than previous strains. A great deal of that virus thrives in the nose and throat early in infection. The result is the virus spreads easier (an infected person has more virus, which means there is more virus to spread) and vaccinated people could become unwilling vectors for spreading disease.”

Drake said the vaccine is still working. She said some vaccinated people may test positive and are infected, but do not experience illness. Some experience mild illness. More than 97 percent of hospitalizations are unvaccinated people.

“The vaccine produces antibody response primarily in the blood,” Drake said. “In the early stages of infection, those antibodies might not make it to the nose until the virus makes its way into the lungs where your immune response ramps up.

“Plain and simple, if the COVID-19 virus strains continue to spread from person-to-person, new variants will continue to occur,” Drake said. “COVID-19 vaccines are effective against the variants that are currently circulating, so all eligible people are urged to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Getting vaccinated protects against the current virus strains and decreases the chances of a vaccine-resistant variant developing in the future.”

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DON GROVES/Free Press — Artist John Evans of Richland, Iowa, works on a painting July 24 for the Corning Center for the Fine Arts’ 15th annual En Plein Air competition. Evans won the event for his painting “200th Street Vista.”

Evans, Roush named
​En Plein Air winners

John Evans of Richland, Iowa, and Lynn Roush of Corning are the winners of the July 23-24 Corning Center for the Fine Arts’ 15th annual En Plein Air painting competition.

Evans placed first in the En Plein Air competition with “200th Street Vista.” Roush won the Quick Paint competition “Water Fountain @ Central Park.”

The artists competing in Corning were able to paint their En Plein Air paintings starting at dawn July 23 and select their paint sites anywhere in Adams County. They submitted their paintings by 2 p.m. July 24 for judging.

The Quick Paint Event requires that the artists complete a painting with the time limit of maximum of two hours of painting. This event showcased artists painting only sites in downtown Corning.

Michael Morain, Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs and Iowa Arts Council, researched that Corning Center for the Fine Arts Competition is the longest continuous running En Plein Air event in the state of Iowa. 

En Plein Air, a term derived from the French, literally means “in the open air,” CCFA director Linda Shearer said. 

“It is a familiar concept today and has become a popular painting competition in Iowa,” she said. “It was quite revolutionary in the late 1800s when the Impressionists ventured out of their studios to investigate and capture the effects of sunlight and different times of day on a subject they painted.”

The En Plein Air Exhibit will be on display and for sale at Corning Center for the Fine Arts through Sept. 30.

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CARIE MORALES/Free Press — Long-time Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Human Sciences specialist in nutrition and wellness Barb Fuller was inducted July 12 into the 2021 Adams County 4-H Hall of Fame at the Adams County Fair.

4-H honors Fuller’s devotion

Long-time Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Human Sciences specialist in nutrition and wellness Barbara (Wiese) Fuller was inducted July 12 into the 2021 Adams County 4-H Hall of Fame at the Adams County Fair.

Barbara (Wiese) Fuller joined the Colfax Cloverettes of Boone County in the 1960s and enjoyed membership until she graduated. She participated in a number of project areas including raising and showing dairy cattle. She also attended the Citizenship Washington Focus in Washington, D.C. Both of her parents were 4-H volunteers and her siblings were also 4-H members in Boone County.

After graduating from United Community High School, Fuller attended Iowa State University and graduated with a degree in dietetics. She first took a job with Rosary Hospital (now CHI Health Mercy Corning) and moved to Adams County. She met and married David Fuller in 1982 and they welcomed their daughter, Mary, in 1985.

Mary became a third-generation 4-H’er by joining the Jasper Specialist as soon as she was eligible. While Barb initially resisted volunteering as a leader, she eventually gave in and was the leader of Jasper Specialist for many years, volunteering even after her daughter graduated. She has had a positive impact on many Adams County 4-H’ers through the years, guiding them through projects and paperwork, making sure that anyone who wanted to participate in the 4-H had the opportunity. She also encouraged everyone to participate in a variety of project areas and to explore beyond their comfort zones. 

In 2006, Fuller got involved in 4-H Shooting Sports and became the Adams County coordinator, as well as a rifle instructor. Along with her husband, David, she has helped instruct youth as they have competed at a local, state, and national level in a variety of events. She has also volunteered as a hunter safety instructor for more than 25 years, teaching youth and adults alike the importance of responsible gun handling and hunting.

Fuller is an honorary 4-H alumni recipient in Adams County. She has also served as a member of the Adams County Fair Board. She has volunteered many hours at the fair, helping 4-H’ers, leaders, and the public. Fuller was elected to the Adams County Extension Council and served in that role until taking a job as a nutrition and wellness specialist with Iowa State University and Outreach, covering many counties in Southwest Iowa. She recently retired after 13 years in that role.

“Barb has proudly participated in, promoted, and facilitated 4-H youth programming for many decades, touching many lives and futures; she is heartily welcomed into the Adams County 4-H Hall of Fame,” Hall of Fame organizers said.

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Lazy Days to fill
​Main Street

Main Street Corning’s Lazy Days and the Battle of the Barbecue will take place July 23-24 in the Main Street district.

The Corning Center for the Fine Arts’ En Plein Air Festival will take place from dawn to dusk July 23 throughout Adams County. The CCFA will host an open house from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 706 Davis Ave. where Corning graduates can register for the school reunion, receive a schedule of weekend events, and bid in the en plein air silent auction. A time en plein air quick paint event will take place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. July 23 at the CCFA.

Registration and meat distribution for Battle of Barbecue cookers will take place from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. July 23 at Eighth Street and Benton Avenue. The cookers meeting and group photo will be held at 5 p.m. Gates open to the public at 5 p.m. Entry fees are $10 per person, $5 for children 5 to 12 years old, and free for those 5 and under. A beer garden hosted by the Corning Fire Department will be held from 5 p.m. to midnight with DJ Randy Cooper playing music from 7 p.m. to midnight. The wings samples and people’s choice award voting begin at 7 p.m.

The Corning American Theater will show a movie at 7 p.m. July 23-24 at 704 Davis Ave.

The En Plein Air Festival continues from dawn to 2 p.m. July 24 .

Check-in for CHI Health Mercy Corning Doctors Dash begins at 6:30 a.m. July 24 at Eighth Street and Davis Avenue. The race begins at 7:30 a.m. with an awards ceremony following the race.

The Corning Rotary Pancake Breakfast will take place from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. July 24 on Eighth Street between Davis and Benton. Freewill donations support polio eradication.

Corning school graduates and reunion attendees can register and receive a schedule of events from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 24 at the Corning Center for the Fine Arts.

Main Street’s mini carnival, caricature artist, and food truck will be available from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 24.

A tour of Southwest Valley High School will begin at 10 a.m. July 24 at 904 Eighth St.

Battle of the BBQ judging takes place from 10 a.m. to noon July 24 at 925 Davis Ave.

An En Plein Air silent auction will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 24 at the Corning Center for the Fine Arts. Awards and the silent auction sale will take place at 3 p.m.

Tours of the Johnny Carson Birthplace will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July  24 at 500 13th St. Admission is $7.

A barbecue meal will be served from noon to 2 p.m. July 24 on Eighth Street between Benton and Davis. The cost is $10 per person for ages 6 and up.

A social/reception to meet artists will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. July 24 at the Corning Center for the Fine Arts.

R&S Collectibles tours will take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 530 Davis Ave. Admission is $5 for ages 12 and up.

People’ Choice Wing Contest winners will be announced at 1:45 p.m. followed by barbecue winners at 2 p.m. July 24 at Central Park.

For more information about Lazy Days, visit www.adamscountyiowa.com.

Seniors hear about Pinecreek Meadows

The Adams Community Economic Development Corporation held a public meeting June 29 at the Corning Community Center to introduce a new opportunity for seniors 55 years or older. 

Pinecreek Meadows is a cooperative community designed to foster a high-quality of life for its residents by sharing the ownership costs between all its members through cooperative shares, Adams Community Economic Development Corporation executive director Beth Waddle said. The corporation assumes the responsibilities of mortgage, taxes, maintenance, and repairs for all its residents. 

Consultants Bruce Boehm and Kumar Wickramasingha, as well as Todd Hackett and Jenna Hackett-Harasim from Hackett Construction, were on hand to share the plans and answer questions. The 20-unit cooperative will feature three sizes of units: one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and two-bedroom plus den options. Each unit will have an open living-dining-kitchen area with patio/balcony. Each will have its own laundry room. Appliances will be included. The common areas will include a lounge area, inside mail delivery, and large outside deck. An underground heated garage will provide out-of-the-weather parking and the two elevators will assist residents with easy access to their unit. An additional garage will be on-site for two-vehicle families.

Original cooperative shareholders will have some options during construction to select colors or develop upgrades they may want in their home. A director will be hired to manage the property and assist with maintenance requests. A 15-passenger bus will be available for resident activities throughout the year.

“You may be asking, ‘What is a housing cooperative?’” Waddle said. “Cooperative housing is a community of active adults who own an equity share — not just a unit-in the entire community property though a cooperative corporation. Each equity share is held through an official membership certificate upon purchase. The membership certificate entitles you to occupy a specific unit in the complex. The cooperative holds title in the entire property that includes the units, land, and common areas. It also assumes the mortgage, tax and other obligations necessary to finance and operate the facility.”

The cooperative is operated on a democratic basis and the governing body is its Board of Directors, which consists of elected individuals by the member owners from the co-op, Waddle said. “Each equity share enables members to occupy one home and receive one vote when electing the Board of Directors and/or making by-law changes. The board oversees and directs the policies, expenditures, and operations of the cooperative and hires the director.

“Cooperative living combines the financial advantages of home ownership with the amenities, security and comfort of a wonderful community in a fantastic location,” Waddle said. “It allows seniors to age in place, living the carefree lifestyle they want, either as a working senior or as the carefree retiree which can include travel without the worry of home maintenance while they are away. Many seniors get tired of or become financially strapped by the hassles of house maintenance, surprise repairs and expensive bills; and will appreciate the extra time and money saved to enjoy the things they love. If or when added assistance is needed, home health care options expand one’s ability to stay in their home within the community that has been established.”

Those 55+ years of age interested in maintenance-free, cooperative living should contact the Adams Community Economic Development Corporation by calling (641) 322-5229 or e-mailing [email protected] for an informational packet or to be included on a list to be invited to the next informational meeting to be held in early August

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Fair features
Small Town Showdown

Adams County Fair attendees will be part of a Small Town Showdown this year July 8-13.

The fair gets underway with a Small Town Showdown barbecue kickoff at 5 p.m. July 8 followed by the coronation of the fair queen at 7 p.m.

July 9 begins with the horse show at 9 a.m. The Safety Education in Shooting Sports members will meet at 3 p.m. at the Corning Gun Club. Rodeo fans will have the opportunity to ride a mechanical bull from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Impact wrestling will take place at 5 p.m. The evening will end with a street dance at 7 p.m.

July 10 is Antique Day at the Adams County Fair. Tractor rides begin at 8 a.m. Draft horse games begin at 10 a.m. A cornhole tournament will be held at noon. Both the fun dog show and the antique road show begin at 1 p.m. A 4-H table-setting contest will be held at 3 p.m. The mechanical bull will be available from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The 4-H fashion show will be held at 6 p.m. Races begin at the Adams County Speedway at 7 p.m.

July 11 is Kids Day at the fair. A 5K color run will start the day at 7 p.m. followed by the broiler show at 7:30 a.m. The Fair Board breakfast and sheep and goat show begin at 8 a.m. Services for an outdoor church will be held at 10:30 a.m. The mechanical bull will be available from noon to 7 p.m. Afternoon and evening activities include the poultry show at 1 p.m., a magic show at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., a baby contest at 3 p.m., a Quilts of Valor presentation at 5 p.m., spin art at 6 p.m., a robotic demonstration at 6 p.m., and Dairyland donkey boll at 7 p.m.

The swine show begins at 7:30 a.m. July 12 followed by the rabbit and small pet show at 11 a.m. The Bill Riley Talent Show begins at 1 p.m. followed by the bucket of junk contest at 2 p.m., family fair tours at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., the pedal pull at 5 p.m., the 4-H Foundation and State Fair awards at 6 p.m., and a draft horse pull at 7 p.m.

The fair wraps up July 13. A pancake breakfast starts the day at 7 a.m. followed by the beef show at 8:30 a.m. The dog show will take place at 1 p.m., livestock judging at 1:30 p.m., Ag Day in the pavilion at 2 p.m., Reach the Red from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., the 4-H tall corn contest at 4 p.m., the Ag Day meal at 5 p.m., bottle buckaroo show at 5 p.m., and the fair sale at 7 p.m.

Pinecreek Meadows coming to Corning

Developers of a new project are working to bring maintenance-free living for older adults to Adams County.

The Adams Community Economic Development Corporation will hold two sessions for Pinecreek Meadows, a proposed two-story 20-unit development for those 55 and older, June 29 at the Corning Community Center. Each session will have a short presentation with the developers and construction team. Project plans with layouts, elevations, and handouts will be available. Session 1 will be from noon to 2:30 p.m. with a short presentation at 12:30 p.m. Session 2 will be from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. with a short presentation at 6 p.m.

“Feel free to stop in for a short time during any of those times to fit your schedule,” ACEDC president Donna Hogan said.

Plans for the project include one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and two-bedrooms plus den units, each with their own kitchen and laundries in a tree and river lined acreage in Corning. Hogan said first-story units will have a small walk-out patio and second-story units will have a balcony. An elevator will service the second-floor units with underground parking and storage areas. An additional parking garage will be available for second-car families.

“We want to hear your thoughts, ideas and opinions on this project,” Hogan said. 

For more information about senior cooperative living, call (712) 621-6547.

Chamber preps
​for golf tourney

The Adams Community Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its annual golf tournament Aug. 3 at Happy Hollow Country Club in Corning.

The best ball tournament is limited to 18 teams. The cost is $200 per team and $45 per golf cart or golfers can bring their own carts. Teams can buy two mulligans for $20 per team. Hole sponsorships are available for $50. Businesses will be displayed on one of nine holes with a limit of two sponsors per hole.

Hy-Vee won the 2020 tournament to earn $200 off its chamber membership and possession of the traveling trophy. 

Tee off is at 10 a.m. Aug. 3. Registration is due by July 26. Checks should be made payable to Adams Community Chamber of Commerce. Email registration forms to [email protected] or drop off registration forms at 710 Davis Ave.

For more information, call (641) 322-3243

County assessor
​to begin inspections

Adams County assessor Ben Mullen recently announced that door-to-door inspections of all real estate in Adams County will begin approximately June 14.

A reappraisal project was approved by the Conference Board in February 2017.

The purpose of the reappraisal program is to equalize property assessments so that each taxpayer is responsible for paying only his/her fair share of the property tax burden.  Periodic inspections and reappraisal of properties is necessary as all types of properties do not increase or decrease in value at the same rate. Some properties physically deteriorate faster than others, and in many instances similar homes located in different areas of the county will differ greatly in value due to economic factors.

Data collectors with photo ID signed by the assessor will make interior and exterior inspections of all properties. They will be compiling information to be used to estimate the fair market value of each property. Information to be collected includes type of construction, type of interior finish, physical condition of the property, age of structures and exterior measurements. A complete sales analysis, local construction costs, and economic conditions are also considered. No estimate of value will be given at the time of inspection.

Property owners are asked to cooperate by allowing a complete inspection of their property and providing accurate information so that a fair and equitable assessment may be determined for each property.

The preliminary data collection process will begin in June 2021. The project is scheduled for completion Dec. 31, 2021.

Notice of final value estimates will be mailed to each property owner after Jan. 1, 2022.  The property owners will have an opportunity to meet informally to discuss their revaluation in the spring of 2022.

The new assessed values will be effective for Jan. 1, 2022, for taxes payable in fiscal 2023-2024.
Representatives of Vanguard Appraisals Inc. in conjunction with the Adams County Assessor’s Office will be conducting this project.

All law enforcement agencies as well as the Adams County Assessor’s Office will be apprised of the areas where data collectors are working. They will also have a listing of all names and license plate numbers of anyone involved in the project.

Any property owner with questions regarding the reappraisal project is urged to contact the Adams County assessor’s office at (641) 322-4312 or email [email protected]. Additional information is available at https://adams.iowaassessors.com.

Submitted photo — Six local service members were presented Quilts of Valor on May 27. From left are Gregory Myers, Jack Nevius, Donnie Willett, Shannon Townsend, Benjamin Mullen, and Britney Mullen.

Six receive Quilts of Valor

Six local service members were presented Quilts of Valor on May 27.

Receiving quilts from Quilts of Valor Foundation volunteers are:

Shannon Townsend — Townsend served in the U.S. Marines Corp from 1992 to 2000. He attained the rank of corporal. His quilt was made by Judi Perrin and quilted by a QOV Foundation volunteer in Winterset.

Gregory Myers — Myers served in the U.S. Army from Jan. 10, 2001, to Dec. 31, 2005, including 12 months in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He attained the rank of E5. His quilt was made by Judi Perrin and quilted by a QOV Foundation volunteer in Winterset.

Britney Mullen — Britney Mullen served in the Iowa National Guard from November 2003 to May 2012 helping Southwest Iowa with the floods of 2008. She attained the rank of specialist. Her quilt was made by Judi Perrin and quilted by a QOV Foundation volunteer in Winterset.

Benjamin Mullen — Benjamin Mullen served in the Iowa National Guard from May 2010 to December 2012 and was stationed at Camp Slayer and Bagdad during Operations Iraqi Freedom. He attained the rank of specialist. His quilt was made by Judi Perrin and quilted by a QOV Foundation volunteer in Winterset.

Donnie Willett — Willett served in the Iowa National Guard from 1958 to 1965. He attained the rank of SPEC 5. His quilt was made by Judi Perrin and quilted by a QOV Foundation volunteer in Winterset.

Jack Nevius — Nevius enlisted in the U.S. Army in April of 1976. After completion of Basic, AIT and Airborne schools he was assigned to the 2nd BN, 75th Airborne Ranger Regiment at Fort Lewis, Wash. He graduated from Ranger School in 1977 and later transferred to the 9th Infantry Division, also at Fort Lewis. In 1978 Nevius was reassigned to Panama Canal Zone on the Isthmus of Panama.There he was a member of the 1st BN, 508th INF (Airborne detachment of the 82nd Airborne DIV) at Fort Kobbe on the Pacific side of the isthmus. While there he graduated from the Airborne Jumpmaster School. In 1979 Nevius was selected to be an instructor at the Jungle Operations Training Center (JOTC) at Fort Sherman on the Caribbean side of the Isthmus. There he spent his last year on active duty teaching at the Jungle Warfare School, discharging in April of 1980 as a sergeant E5.

Nevius returned to Iowa and enrolled at the University of Northern Iowa through the GI Bill. He also enlisted in the Iowa Army National Guard and shortly thereafter was accepted as an officer candidate in the Iowa Military Academy’s OCS program at Camp Dodge, north of Des Moines. Nevius was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in 1982 and served with the 1st BN, 133rd INF in Charles City and Oelwein, Iowa. While there he served as an infantry platoon leader, company executive officer, and detachment commander. He was promoted to 1st lieutenant in 1984. After graduating from UNI in 1985 and accepting employment with EDS of Dallas, Texas, he transferred to Inactive Army Reserve.

After returning to Iowa, Nevius returned to active drill status to accept the position of company commander of Company A, 1st BN, 410th INF, U.S. Army Reserves in Waterloo. He served in that capacity until 1991, then returned to the Inactive reserves. In 1998 he was recruited back to active drill status to become company commander of the 445th Tactical Transportation Company in Waterloo, where he was promoted to captain. He served there until early 2001 when he ended his military career after 25 years of service.

His quilt was made by Erma Fuller and quilted by a QOV Foundation volunteer in Winterset.

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County to see
​new alert system

Adams County Emergency Management will replace is current alert system, Alert Iowa, to Rave Alert and Smart 911 effect July 1.

With the switch, residents will have access to new feature and functions that will enhance how the county receives alerts.

The Smart911 app allows users to receive push notifications from the state, including National Weather Service warnings, and to set up a use profile for individuals and family members that includes options to add multiple addresses and numbers.

For those who do not want to use the Smart911 app, a county opt-in page will be available that will allow users to register multiple addresses and numbers to create a user account.

Users will be able to sign up and receive alerts in languages other than English.

There will be the ability to provide additional information to the registry, which will be used in the event of an emergency for messaging to a specific group.

Instructions on how to register the new system will be released soon and will be found by visiting the Adams County Emergency Management web page https://www.adamscountyia.com/departments/adams-county-emergency-management/.

Residents who are currently registered for Adams County alerts through Alert Iowa will need to re-registers for the new systems, Rave Alert and/or Smart911, to continue to receive alerts after June 30.​

Timberwolves 2021

FCCLA students
​advance to nationals

STAR (Students Taking Action with Recognition) Events are Competitive Events in which Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) members are recognized for their proficiency and achievement in chapter and individual projects, leadership skills, and career preparation. 

STAR Events allow students to compete individually or as a team. There are more than 30 STAR Events students can choose to compete in, all which recognize participants who demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities to actively identify an issue concerning families, careers, or communities, research the topic, and develop and implement a project to advocate for positive change.

In order to advance to the national level in a STAR Event, members first compete at the district and state levels. Three SWV students competed in Clarinda on Feb. 9 and advanced to the state competition in Gowrie on April 1. Both entries received gold medals in the state competition qualifying for the national level in Nashville, Tenn., June 27 – July 2. Kayla Mitchell will be competing in National Programs of Action – Community Service while Karsyn Poston and Allyssa Sothman are teamed up for the Chapter Service Display category. 

“I am extremely proud of these young women for stepping up to organize these great community service projects. I never dreamed how much money and supplies we would raise to give back to those in need,” adviser Lisa Konecne said. By completing STAR Events the students have learned valuable life skills such as time management, communication skills, and organizational skills.”

“For Allyssa’s and I’s project, I really wanted to help the animal rescue out in some way,” Poston said. “While working at the vet clinic, I have seen quite a few that were looking for new homes. I really wanted to be able to help the dogs that I have worked with find their forever homes.” 

“I have participated in the Pony Express Ride for Iowa for 16 years,” Mitchell said. “This ride is used to raise money for the special needs individuals and their family. They provide rehabilitation and respite camp services. I would have rode a total of 17 years if COVID-19 hadn’t canceled the 2020 ride as a result Camp Sunnyside received a reduced amount of funds. I chose to create my project to help offset the lack of needed funds that operate and provide a wonderful camp for many attendees.” 

“I learned the importance of community,” Sothman said. “We had the goal to raise money for the rescue our communities stepped up and helped us so much. I loved this project because we were able to raise money for a food cause and so many new friends were made through the volunteers.”

To help offset the cost of the trip to nationals, Mitchell, Poston, and Sothman will host a Color Fun Walk/Run at the SWV Middle School in Villisca on May 29. Run day registration begins at 8 a.m. with the run scheduled to start at 8:30. The cost is $10 per individual or $30 per family (two adults and two children — add $5 for each additional youth). Pre-registration is encouraged by email to [email protected]. 

“We encourage everyone to wear white as color will be thrown at you,” Konecne said.

About FCCLA
Family, Career and Community Leaders of America is a dynamic and effective national student organization that helps young men and women become leaders and address important personal, family, work, and societal issues through Family and Consumer Sciences education. FCCLA has more than 182,000 members and 5,253 chapters from 48 state associations, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.

CHI Health Mercy Corning hits milestone

CHI Health Mercy Corning is celebrating its 70th anniversary.

CHI Health Mercy Corning opened its doors to patients in 1951 but the history started before that date. Rosary Hospital’s origin began in 1942 when a bequest from the Roach Brothers Estate went to Father Powers of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Corning, Iowa. Fr. Powers had the vision to establish a hospital to benefit the entire community.

In 1942, the community was still reeling from the effects of a severe farm depression and a prolonged drought. The intervention of the war years and related shortages delayed the project until March 1946. A community committee was formed to gather additional financial support for construction costs. Fr. Powers also approached the Felician Sisters to request qualified sisters to staff and operate the hospital upon its completion. Mother Mary Jolanta, provincial superior of the Chicago Motherhouse, agreed to this support. Soon after, Fr. Powers purchased a 42-acre site on the outskirts of Corning. Fr. Powers also began some initial construction on the site under his own design and supervision. During the 1994 renovation project, footings for his design were found.
In May of 1948, the community committee and Mother Mary Felicitas, new provincial superior, reached an agreement for general plans for the 40-bed hospital and management of construction. By 1949, the local community had contributed a total of $175,000 to be added to the $253,000 Roach Brothers’ bequest. This fell short of the estimated cost of the project, and to complete the project funding, Corning was awarded a government grant of $188,000. The construction began with August 1950 as completion target.

The $600,000, 42-bed facility opened its doors debt free in May of 1951. The first staff consisted of eight sisters, a lay staff of 42 full and part time employees, and a medical staff consisting of eight physicians.

Many changes have occurred at Rosary Hospital through the years. A significant change happened in March of 1989. The Felician Sisters withdrew their sponsorship of the hospital due to a decrease in vocations. The Des Moines Diocese became the hospital sponsor under Bishop Maurice Dingman. 
The next ownership change was in August 1985. Mercy Health Systems of the Midlands became the owner of Rosary Hospital. Mercy Health Systems of the Midlands became the owners in 1989. Alegent Health partnership formed in 1996 involved the Mercy Midlands Health System and the Immanual Lutheran System. And in 2012 Alegent Health and Creighton joined together Alegent Creighton Health. Changes continued through to the current ownership/name that the hospital and health system has today of CHI Health as division of Commonspirit Health. These changes and partnerships have provided strength and growth for the Southwest Iowa Critical Access hospital.

Mercy Corning continually looked for ways to improve health care for area residents throughout the years. Recognizing the shift from inpatient to outpatient care, a $750,000 fundraising effort was held in the community. These funds remodeled part of the hospital convent area into a modern outpatient clinic area. The Outpatient Clinic opened in spring of 1992. Following that project the laboratory in the basement was renovated to become a modernized department. The outpatient renovation project began the focus on other needed improvements in the building. The 21st Century Healthcare Campaign was launched in 1994 to secure funding for the estimated $3.6 million project. The community rallied to aid the hospital and pledged $1.6 million for the new construction and renovation project and the additional $2 million project funds came from the governing organization.

Groundbreaking ceremonies were held on a hot, windy day in August of 1995. Heavy equipment started rolling in late in the fall and construction continues on schedule for completion in 1997. The 14,000 square feet of new construction and renovated area included a 22-bed med-surgery wing, two emergency rooms, new surgical suite, cardiac rehabilitation, relocated and expanded physical and respiratory therapy departments, renovated space for medical records, dietary, social services, and environmental services. 

Health care changes moved the next major hospital project to the fore front rapidly. A $6.1 million project broke ground in August of 2005 and opened to the public with a special event on Sunday, Sept. 23, 2007. The new space added 20,635 square feet to the hospital campus and 8,740 square feet of space was renovated. The south end of the hospital campus became the Corning Clinic, Specialty Clinic, and new dietary/cafeteria area. Other new areas included an expanded surgical suite and radiology area. The former administration offices were transformed into a cardiopulmonary rehabilitation suite. The hospital and clinic share an expanded lobby area which includes the hospital chapel, a conference room and receptionist areas.

The radiology department was expanded with the project with the traditional radiology exam equipment, DEXA scan, CT scanner, ultrasound, 3D mammography and waiting area located within the department. Patient privacy and comfort were key factors in the department design along with significant technology improvements.

A new department of the hospital was the addition of the Wellness Center when the original Wellness Center opened in downtown retail space on Seventh Street in February 2003 and expanded in October of 2006 to adjoining business space. And the Mercy Health Care Foundation funded the renovation of Pamida building and the Wellness Center opened in its current location in May 2010. 
Today, the hospital has a staff of 136 employees with its clinics having four physicians and three midlevel providers. In addition to these providers, the hospital has 18 specialists for specialty and surgical services. The hospital provides management and staffing for the Adams County Emergency Services as well as having a helipad onsite.

Along the way, Mercy Corning has been recognized for outstanding service to patients. After becoming a critical access hospital, Mercy Corning has been at Top 20 Critical Access hospital multiple times and most recently was recognized as a Top 20 critical access hospital in America for patient satisfaction. 

CHI Health Mercy Corning is fortunate to have been built in 1951 in a community that has supported it financially and emotionally through the years. Its staff and volunteers continue to work toward fulfilling a mission of the hospital: to provide high quality care for the body, mind and spirit of every person.

Dreams can come
​true at SWV

The Southwest Valley Music Department has been busy this spring working on its production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella.” 

Show times are Saturday, May 1, and Sunday, May 2, in the Southwest Valley Auditorium. Saturday’s show will start at 7 p.m. and Sunday’s will start at 2 p.m. Tickets are $7 for adults and $6 for students and can be purchased at the door. Masks are required to attend this production.

The production features senior Kendi Graham as Cinderella and Kade Hutchings at Prince Christopher. Other seasoned veterans of the stage include Jacob Roberts as the King and Joslynn Moore as the Queen.

“We have several new faces to the stage as well: Emma DeVore and Lexi Weston (the Stepsisters) and Karissa Richey (Stepmother),” SWV director Mindy Docker said. “The Fairy Godmother is played by junior Lyric Cory.

“Does Cinderella’s dreams come true? Can the Prince find his mystery girl from the ball?” Docker said. “Come join us on Saturday and Sunday to find out.

Fostering Hope
to hold courses

Fostering Hope of Southwest Iowa will hold a free community training event, Strong Kids — Strong Future: Helping Adults Help Kids, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 1 at First Presbyterian Church at 907 Grove Ave.

The event will include a variety of courses including information about human trafficking, drug awareness, trauma and healing the brain, sleep issues, psychostimulants, healthy sexual development, and CPR/First Aid certification.

Fostering Hope planned a similar event last spring but the COVID-19 pandemic limited the courses to just a few online classes, Fostering Hope organizer Michelle Morgan said.

“We planned it but we had to cancel it but were able to do a few classes by Zoom,” she said.

Morgan said the Strong Kids — Strong Future courses are not just for foster parents, parents, and teachers but for anyone “who knows and loves kids.”

“We just want to get the word out that it’s for everybody,” she said. “We want it to be beneficial to the community as well as foster parents.”

The CPR/First Aid certification course, for example, is for “anyone who needs certification,” Morgan said.

The courses are Department of Human Services foster care credit approved and Early Childhood Development credit approved. Register online by April 23 at 1stprescorning.org/strong.

The courses include:

• Pediatric child/infant/adult CPR/AED and First Aid
Instructor Cena Danielson, LPN,ACE-PT is the CHI Health Wellness Center coordinator. She also devotes her time to multiple community projects with health focuses. Danielson is a certified instructor for the American Heart Association to help spread awareness and the importance of learning CPR. She has been instructing AHA CPR/AED classes for the last five years to businesses and communities. 

• Dangerous Playgrounds 2.0 — Drug Awareness and Trends
Instructor Mike McGuire has been employed with the 2nd Judicial District Department of Correctional Services as a probation/parole officer since 1989. He was the coordinator of the Cerro Gordo County Community Drug Court program from 2000 until 2010 and currently serves as the area office supervisor for the Mason City probation and parole office. He and his wife Christie have eight children and have been foster and adoptive parents for over 20 years. McGuire will speak about the different classifications of abused substances (both legal and illicit) and will leave this training with a working knowledge of the terminology, visual identity, the “how they are used,” the “how they are made,” and the effects of substances on the community.

• Human Trafficking in Iowa: It’s Here and Thriving
Instructor Ruth I. E. Buckels, LMSW, is the AMP and the Teens Against Human Trafficking  statewide coordinator for Youth and Shelter Services in Ames. AMP is an advocacy program focusing on youth voices initiating system change in the child welfare system. TAHT is a school focused program seeking to set up teams of youth in each school who will create safety in that school through education. Buckels will present a candid discussion on how human trafficking operatives work, impact on victims, and how people serving youth can identify and respond. Iowa examples and stories will be shared to clarify situations. This presentation also contains statistics of trafficking trends, and video testimonials of actual victims of Human Trafficking.

• The Magic of Healing the Brain
Instructor Dr. Joann Seeman Smith is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in diagnosis, and treatment of children and adolescents. She received her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Iowa State University in 2008. Smith has been providing training for foster and adoptive parents since 2008. She currently has her own practice with offices in Ames and Granger. She also provides consultation and training for schools to better understand children with trauma. Smith will explore activities that will work towards healing the traumatized brain and towards creating a healthy secure attachment. These activities will be taught and practiced.

• Nurturing Healthy Sexual Development
Instructor Megan Parsons is a certified domestic abuse specialist with Crisis Intervention and Advocacy. She is certified through the Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Parsons will discuss why it’s important to nurture sexual development within children and will cover topics such as normal behavior children may exhibit, as well as normal curiosity, exploration, and questions children may ask; how to respond to these questions and behaviors and how to have open communication with children about their sexual development.

• Sleep: How to Know When Something is Wrong and What to Do
Instructor Dr. Joann Seeman Smith is a licensed mental health counselor who specializes in diagnosis, and treatment of children and adolescents. She received her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Iowa State University in 2008. Smith has been providing training for foster and adoptive parents since 2008. She currently has her own practice with offices in Ames and Granger. She also provides consultation and training for schools to better understand children with trauma. Smith will discuss what healthy and developmentally normal sleep looks like and what are some red flags to signal there might be an issue. She will explore the three major categories of childhood sleep disorders, dyssomnias, parasomnias, and psychiatric/medical and discuss good sleep hygiene techniques.
​
• Stigma of Substance Abuse and Psychostimulants
Instructor Jessica Petter is a prevention specialist for Zion Integrated Behavioral Health Services with two and a half years in the behavioral health field and five years in healthcare. She graduated with her bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus on Psychology and Sociology from Eastern Washington University. The Stigma of Substance Abuse training will give parents, teachers, and caregivers the opportunity to educate themselves about the impact of stigma on populations that use substances. It will provide insight into what stigma is, how it forms, and how it ultimately affects the community. The Psychostimulants training will give parents, teachers, and caregivers the opportunity to educate themselves about Psychostimulants and their impact in Iowa. This training will give participants an education on what psychostimulants are, how they affect the brain and body, what common medical uses they have, and an understanding of the potential for their misuse

Ernst visits Adams County

U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst heard about challenges of opening a business during COVID-19 and met with community leaders about additional economic development projects April 6 in Adams County when she visited Corning as part of her 99-county tour.

Ernst toured the Corning Hotel, which opened in August 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. She spoke with Adams Community Economic Development Corporation members about the pandemic and its economic and mental effects on the community.

Meeting labor needs was a top concern. Ernst said she is focused on helping small businesses by reigning in regulations that are often burdensome. One example, she said, was improved work visas that, combined with adequate housing, could help build the local labor force.

The lack of high-speed broadband access remains a concern and expanding it can be a boon to communities throughout the state, Ernst said. Improved broadband would help not only businesses but rural families and students of all ages.

Infrastructure improvements, specifically highways, was another topic of discussion. Expanding Highway 34 to four lanes could help ease traffic, especially with long-haul trucking.

Submitted photo — Main Street Corning Public Relations chair Marilea Mullen, right, presents a token of appreciation to Main Street Iowa’s Darlene Strachan for her retirement.

Strachan ends
​where she begins

Main Street Iowa conducted a partnership visit March 30 with Main Street Corning organization. 

The Adams Community Economic Development Corporation provides funding for Main Street Corning program, which has received accreditation from the National Main Street Center for more than 30 years. 

Darlene Strachan was Corning Main Street director from 1999 to 2001 prior to accepting the Main Street Iowa state position. Strachan chose Corning as her last assessment location prior to retiring. 
“I left Corning for the state and wanted to end in Corning,” she said. 

The Community Center was open to the public between 9 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. to wish Strachan well upon her retirement April 1.

Main Street Corning Public Relations chair Marilea Mullen presented Strachan with a small token of appreciation for all she did and has done for the community in the years both working in Corning and in her state capacity.

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Submitted photo — Main Street Public Relations presented the Central Park light crew the 2020 Volunteer of the Year Award and a volunteer and awards celebration March 23 at the Corning Community Center. The light crew includes, from left, Betsy Akin, Gary Badgett, Patty Peterson, Bert Peckham, Jan Leonard, and Jerry Peckham.

Main Street names Volunteer of Year

Main Street Public Relations hosted a volunteer and awards celebration on the evening of March 23 at the Corning Community Center. 

Marilea Mullen, Public Relations chair, recognized the bi-monthly volunteers from 2020 and announced the 2020 Volunteer of the Year Award. 

“We are here to recognize the resiliency of our Main Street Community and some of our volunteers who made a difference,” Mullen said. 

Every year, members of the Public Relations Committee selects individuals or organizations who selflessly give of their time to improve our community and the Main Street district. Those selected in 2020 were the Historic Preservation Committee, Jamie McManis, the Corning Hotel Board, both the Sheriff Office and Corning Fire Department, the Central Park light crew, and teaming up together Julia Paul and Jamie Stargell, Mullen said. The 2020 Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to the Central Park light crew. 

“These volunteers are responsible for the joy our community feels when Central Park turns into a winter wonderland,” Mullen said. “Thank you to this special group of volunteers who spend many hours, regardless of the weather, setting up and taking down the spectacular light display we all enjoy year after year.”

Also recognized were accomplishments under each of the Main Street Four Points (Design, Economic Vitality, Organization, and Promotions) which were submitted to Main Street Iowa. In 2020, each of the Four Point Committees pivoted and adjusted at every turn, Mullen said. 

The Design pillar of the Main Street Approach is influential in working with local government to create options for ordinance and policy changes to enhance the Main Street District. City Council granted approval for an exception to the sidewalk ordinance allowing Primrose Restaurant to have outdoor seating for their patrons. 

Under the Economic Vitality pillar, Main Street was able to create pamphlets for eateries, which showed options of curbside and delivery. These pamphlets have expanded to retail businesses, self-care, and eateries and pubs. They are available at the Corning Hotel, Lauvstad Center lobby, and Lake Icaria for both locals and visitors, creating a broad reach and awareness of local businesses that serve the community. 

Community outreach is part of the Organizational pillar, which is just what happened when Reagan Brown led the Aspiring Entrepreneurs of Adams County Camp. Partnering with local businesses to share their business knowledge and providing tools and resources allowed the young students to create their own business model and present it to a panel of judges. Seeing an opportunity to collaborate with other communities, Jamie Stargell and Julia Paul worked on the SWIA Shop Hop. Under the Promotion pillar, the event successfully launched on social media achieving the goal of promoting “shop local” in area communities.

“Volunteers are the heart of our Main Street organization and are the key component to our success, ”said Main Street Corning executive director Marti Gebbie said. 
​
 “We invite you to be our partners on the wonderful journey to make Main Street Corning a great place to be,” Mullen said at the conclusion of the celebration.

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Online vaccine appointments offered

COVID-19 vaccine eligibility expands to include all Iowans on April 5 and to help Adams and Taylor County residents schedule a vaccination appointment Taylor County Public Health is introducing the ability to book appointments online.

“We want to provide this option as we transition to newly eligible groups for the vaccine,” Taylor County Public Health administrator Crystal Drake said. “After registering using the online system, you will choose an appointment date and time that works for you.”

Once selected, participants receive a ticket that grants access to Taylor County Public Health’s COVID-19 clinic and reserves a vaccine for the participant.

“The process is very smooth and does not require more than a couple minutes of time for those that use smartphones or computers,” Drake said. “This will also open up options for neighbors in surrounding counties as we have exhausted our waitlist.”

Currently there are no residency requirements for the vaccine in Taylor and Adams counties. Taylor County Public Health continues to partner with other vaccine providers in the counties — Bedford Drug, NuCara Pharmacy and Corning HyVee Pharmacy.  

“We look forward to continuing vaccination efforts in our communities and assisting fellow Iowans in becoming fully vaccinated against COVID-19,” Drake said.

Us the following link to schedule an appointment. All open vaccination clinics through Taylor County Public Health will be listed under this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/taylor-county-public-health-32838770479.

Historic piano
​returns to Corning

A baby grand piano originally owned by Iowa Gov. Daniel “Dan” Webster Turner has found a home again in Corning.

Dr. Patricia Tice gifted the Wm. Knabe and Company piano that was built in 1913 to the First Presbyterian Church of Corning. The 5-foot, 1-inch baby grand piano was delivered to the church March 12 by S&P Piano Services of Des Moines.

Dr. Tice had owned the piano since the 1990s but after purchasing a fully restored 1928 Steinway L Onyx Duet she spoke with the Turner family to find a home for Gov. Turner’s piano.

“No one had a good place for it,” First Presbyterian Church Pastor Jessica Paulsen said.

So the Turner family suggested the piano be donated to the church Paulsen said and, after working out the details, the church board accepted the gift.

Paulsen said the move and set-up of the piano “went super smooth.” Shon Clausen with S&P Piano Services oversaw the piano’s installation.

“Dr. Tice had hired him to move it and they took care of all that,” Paulsen said.

Paulsen said having the piano back in the community has great historical meaning. She said church records show that Gov. Turner was a member of church from 1889 until his death at age 92 in 1969.
Although the Gov. Tuner’s piano wasn’t used in Sunday’s services, Paulsen said the piano’s arrival was “exciting.”

“It fits our space well,” she said.

Paulsen said that excitement was shared with one of the church’s pianists, Judy Townsend.

“She said 'I can’t wait to practice on that next week,'” Paulsen said.

Once COVID-19 concerns have diminished, the church plans to dedicate the piano at a future service.

“We’re very pleased and honored to receive this gift and are look forward to using it as part of our ministry as we go forward,” Paulsen said.

Brooks UMC
​to hold final service

A closing chapter in the history of Brooks United Methodist Church took place March 7 when five boys were baptized at the church attended by the parents or grandparents.

The final baptism and confirmation come after more than 130 years of the church serving the community. Now with just six members, all of whom are in the 70s or 80s, the sale of Brooks UMC and Brooks community hall will bring the church to an end.

“We’re selling everything in here and in the hall,” Jerry Peckham, Brooks UMC president, said.
Peckham and Brooks UMC treasurer Cheryl Swartz spoke March 3 about the church, its history, and the role it played in their lives. 

Brooks UMC got its start in 1857 when a bishop from Indianola started a seminary in Brooks when a few local Methodists began meeting their for services. The seminary later became Simpson College, which later move to Indianola. At the time Brooks had four churches in a population of about 350 residents.

In 1883 Brooks UMC bought lots 7-8-9 and became the site of  the church. The seminary’s organ, bell, stove, and other items were moved to the new church.

A fire in 1922 destroyed the original church, Peckham said. Corning Fire Department was called but firefighters were unable to save the church. The church was rebuilt in 1923 using materials from a church that closed in 1920 in the Dog Hollow community on old Highway 34.

Peckham said the congregation was proud of the new church for having so few members.

“Church used to be a more social event,” he said. 

The church would hold a potluck once a month and Peckham said he used to ride his pony to the church to carry water to threshing crews in the fields.

“The women were very active for many years,” Swartz said.

The church would hold dinner fundraisers and for a time the men would hold pancake suppers.
Brooks UMC became associated with Carbon and Carl United Methodist Churches. Brooks celebrated its 125 anniversary in 2008 and installed new carpet and windows for the event.

Items from Brooks will go to other churches when Brooks UMC closes its doors for good. The stained glass windows at Brooks that came from a Baptist church in Corning will go Lenox UMC as will the altar. Carbon will take Brooks’ baptismal and the glass from the church windows. The bell will become part of a monument for the church after it is taken down.

“Everything has a beginning and an end,” Peckham said.

Brooks UMC’s long history will still see two more closing chapters — its final service at 2 p.m. March 14 and final sale of the church and Brooks community hall March 27.

The service will be open to the public but masks will be required. The Rev. Melissa Drake, conference superintendent for UMC’s Southwest Region, will conduct the service.

Dashboard provides
COVID-19 insight
Iowans seeking more information about COVID-19 cases, testing, and vaccinations can visit the Iowa Department of Public Health’s website coronavirus.iowa.gov.

The COVID-19 dashboard provides insight into the number of new cases, statistics on positive cases by sex and age groups, and daily state case counts from March 2, 2020, to date.

To date, Adams County has seen 327 positive COVID-19 tests. The county has also administered 200 of its 538 vaccine series initiated.

During the early months of the pandemic, Iowa Department of Public Health reported the number of new positive COVID-19 case-patients and positivity rate daily, Taylor County Public Health administrator Crystal Drake said. The department looked at many of the state’s metrics on a daily basis. At that time, understanding the characteristics of the people being impacted by this new virus was very important. The information told the department how many new cases were in the state, what their characteristics were, and helped target mitigation efforts accordingly.

“But over time, as the rate of testing increased, monitoring overall trends in addition to recent activity has become increasingly more important,” Drake said. “Looking at key data points in terms of 14-day rolling averages to align with the incubation period of the illness has allowed us to better monitor incidence, or new cases of the virus, giving us a more complete picture of current COVID-19 activity across the state and in specific counties.”

As antigen testing, or “rapid testing,” became more readily available and commonly used for routine testing, the number of tests by individuals began increasing significantly, and the process to duplicate tests by individuals became even more complex, Drake said.

In early October, Drake said Public Health made the decision to begin publicly reporting results for both tests by individuals and total tests, so Iowans could compare both reporting methods, knowing that at some point, it may become necessary to make a change to better reflect recent activity and to make comparisons with other states that use this approach a little easier.

At that time, approximately 825,000 Iowans had been tested, and 1.3 million total tests conducted.
 
“Now, we’ve doubled the number of individuals tested and tripled our total tests,” Drake said. “The shift from individual tests to total tests means that positivity rates will also shift to align with total test results.”

The Iowa Department of Public Health’s dashboard now shows the total number of positive tests instead of the number of individuals who have tested positive (cases), Drake said. 
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“This may look like an increase, but is due to the number of cases that have had more than one positive test,” she said. “The number of cases can still be calculated using the Individuals Positive data in both the PCR and Antigen test fields. This also will have an effect on the percentage positivity since it will now be calculated using total tests, and will cause our reported percentage positive to show a slight decrease.”

Submitted photo — Adams County 4-H Safety Education and Shooting Sports meet each month to train new trap shooters at the Corning Gun Club near Lake Binder. The Gun Club is hoping raise $4,000 to secure matching funds for grant applications to replace a 25-year-old trap machine.

Gun Club begins
​capital campaign

A long-time Corning organization has begun a capital campaign to bring some of its equipment up to date.

The Corning Gun Club was established at the current location near Lake Binder in 1947. People have been able to shoot trap since that time. Through the years the popularity of trap shooting has varied said David Fuller. The Gun Club added sporting clays in the early 1990s. 

The Gun Club has started a capital campaign to replace one of the trap machines that is 25 years old. Each year the machines throw 25,000 targets. Fuller said experienced and new shooters have been able to enjoy this sport, but last year one trap was not working well. This caused delays and less than pleasant experiences. Trap shooters come from Adams County and a 50-mile radius, thus bringing visitors to area. Each year is a team trap shoot, using two trap machines. Adams County 4-H Safety Education and Shooting Sports meets each month to train new trap shooters. In the past the Gun Club has hosted Boy Scouts and a First Shots program. 

The capital campaign will be used to secure matching funds for grant applications to replace the oldest trap machine. Fuller said the Gun Club is hoping to raise $4,000.

Those wishing to donate, can contact David Fuller, 1007 Washington, Corning or call (712) 370-3774 (Dean Lammers). Corning Gun Club is a 501(3)c and donations are deductible. 

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Public Health offering COVID-19 clinics

Additional shipments of COVID-19 vaccine to Adams and Taylor County has made it possible for Taylor County Public Health to offer clinics once a week in Corning and Bedford, Public Health administrator Crystal Drake said.

“This week we received news that said we will receive consistent shipments of vaccine for the remainder of February. Each week we will receive 100 initial doses in Adams and 100 initial doses in Taylor,” she said. “To account for this we’ve adjusted our vaccine clinic strategy and will now hold one clinic each week in Bedford and another in Corning to dispense all of the vaccine we receive. We will continue to receive boost doses separately to ensure everyone that received their initial dose will get a second dose.”

Drake said she also learned that the vaccine will be sent to retail pharmacies. 

“This is good news as it means more vaccine will be available in our area each week,” she said. “Right now Bedford Drug in Bedford and NuCara Pharmacy in Lenox are slated to receive vaccine in the upcoming weeks. It is not yet known when HyVee Pharmacy in Corning will receive their shipment of vaccine. Demand for the vaccine continues to outweigh our supply, however we are starting to see more entities receive vaccine that will slowly increase our supply.”

Drake said Public Health’s focus remains on those  65 and older but initial vaccinations have been completed for school staff law enforcement, fire personnel and child care providers (Tier 1) in Taylor and Adams County. She said the next focus is on workers in food, agriculture, distribution and manufacturing who are unable to social distance while working. 

“This will be our largest tier of essential workers to vaccinate,” she said. “We work to find the best approach to vaccinate this group of people with the supply we will be given. More information will be forthcoming for these employers. “

Taylor County Public Health continues to take names of individuals 65 years of age and older. To be included on the list, call the Public Health office at (641) 322-6283 or (712) 523-3405. Public Health will use the list to schedule an appointment for vaccination at one of its weekly clinics.

“Please pass this information along to those you know,” Drake said.

Drake said Public Health is using a tier approach to scheduling vaccination appointments for those 65 and older. Since age is the highest indicator of severe illness and mortality followed by pre-existing conditions to COVID, Public Health schedules those who were the oldest with severe health conditions first. 

“We continue to work down the tiers as more vaccine is received. We will begin scheduling those that are 65-75 years old with severe health conditions within the next two weeks,” she said. “Right now there is no residency requirements for vaccination, however with the limited supply we are giving priority to residents of Taylor and Adams County.”

Drake said that while progress is being made in the battle against the pandemic precaution should continue to be a priority.
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“We all want to celebrate the end of the pandemic as soon as possible, but we are not there yet. Please continue to mask, social distance, and be mindful of gathering in large numbers,” she said. “Please know that our goal is to vaccinate our communities to the best of our abilities. I continue to thank you for your grace and patience as we work countless hours to prevent and protect.”

SWIFT builds 90 fish habitat structures
On Feb. 7 the Southwest Iowa Fishing Team casted off their aggressive 2021 conservation project to help to restore and replenish precious deteriorating fish habitat across Southwest Iowa lakes and ponds.

Preserving habitats is essential to preserving biodiversity. Like all animals, fish need a healthy living space or habitat, to survive, grow, and reproduce. The quality and quantity of fish habitat in a water body directly affects fish populations and the quality of fishing for anglers.

The SWIFT goal is to produce 200 different types of artificial fish habitat structures to address the needs of aquatic life in the lakes. Twenty student anglers almost reached the halfway point of their goal by producing 90 fish structures. The team went through 5,000 feet of plastic tubing — or almost a mile — which was used to mimic branches of a tree. All the materials used to build are recyclable, which keeps the waste out of the landfill and are not harmful to the fish but provide excellent substrate, nesting, spawning habitat, feeding locations, shelter for young fish and attract fish to make for better fishing. 

Bryan Hayes from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources also attended the event and spoke to the students about the importance of conservation and the impact of building good fish habitat structures will have on the lake's aquatic life and for their community. He applauded the students on their commitment to conservation and was impressed with the types of fish habitat structures they were producing. Every structure will help grow the sport of fishing and provide biodiversity in the lakes and ponds in the area. He also informed the students about the duties of the DNR and offered to the students if they wanted to know more about the DNR to consider job shadowing them for a day. 

The Southwest Iowa Fishing Team was formed to provide a safe and competitive activity for the students. The current 26-member team consists of boys and girls from Southwest Iowa surrounding communities who will compete in amateur youth fishing tournaments throughout the year-long season, with the opportunity to win Iowa State and National Championships with the Student Angler Federation and the Bass Federation. The primary initiative is to instill the ideals of good sportsmanship, education, conservation, and fish care through instruction, seminars, and training during all outdoor youth activities. Sixty percent of the students who participate on fishing teams are not involved with traditional high school sports. This extends more opportunity for students to be involved in school-like activity, and the potential to earn scholarships to advance their education.

For more information about the team or to sign up email [email protected] or visit https://www.facebook.com/swifishingteam.

Boswell to release
two new books
A 1996 Corning High School graduate will soon release two new children’s book.

Author and artist Addie Boswell’s board books “Go, Trucks, Go!” and “Go, Planes, Go!” are available for pre-order online from various retailers. The books introduce young children to the worlds of trucks and planes and are part of her in-motion series of board books that also includes “Go, Boats, Go!” and “Go, Bikes, Go!”

Boswell, who now lives in Portland, Ore., published three books last year: “Five on The Bed,” “The Snow Dancer,” and “Go, Boats, Go!” Her first in-motion board book, “Go, Bikes, Go!” was released in 2019. Her first book, “The Rain Stomper,” was published in 2009.

Boswell finds inspiration  in people, particularly children. 

“There is always extraordinariness in ordinary life, and there is always a story to tell,” she says in her artist statement on her website, www.addieboswell.com. “The stories I find myself returning to are about family, shared work, growth, the seasons, and a sense of community or place.”

And though she’s now based in Portland, she credits her roots in Adams County and her teachers in Corning as part of her success.

“I wrote my first picture book in the seventh grade in Corning,” she said. “It was in LeAnn Morris’s talented and gifted class.”

Boswell’s story, “The Very Big Nose” (of Annabel Rose), gave her “a real sense of accomplishment that I can still conjure today.” She soon began believing she would grow up to become an author, artist, actress, or pianist  because of the creativity and freedom she found in Corning. 

“Growing up in a small town in Iowa granted me the chance to try all these things and I continue to love how different disciplines and mediums feed each other,” she said.

Boswell found another mentor in former Corning English teacher Pete Nett who had his students write in their journals every day. Boswell said that practice has stuck with her and is central to her writing life. 

“He really got me into writing,” she said.

Also pivotal in Boswell’s career was the hours she spent searching for books and reading in the Corning Public Library, where copies of her books can be found.

In college she fell in love with painting and had the fortune to study in Italy and traveled to West Africa.

“Both these experiences expanded my sight — and influenced my palette — for many years to come. It wasn't until I moved to Portland that I started meeting ‘real’ artists and writers — and trying to become one myself,” she said.

Boswell mainly works on public art and picture books now. Most recently she collaborated with children and other artists to create Common Threads, an exhibit using perforated steel panels based on Beaverton Arts Center’s creative history. She also worked with artist Antwoine Thomas to create Vibrant Cities Don’t Burn, an acrylic mural at Portland Fire and Rescue Headquarters. Both of these works can be seen on her website, www.addieboswell.com.

While Boswell credits growing up in Corning as the foundation for her life today as a successful author and artist, she now gets inspiration and help from one young critic — her  seven-year-old daughter Imogen.

“I read all my picture books to her first,” she said. “She’ll keep on me to keep working. I’ve been working on one story about a candy factory and she keeps asking if I‘m working on the candy factory.”

Inspired by questions from children, Boswell has also created a five-minute video on how to make a book, which is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4y8-Fhxy0UI&t=48s. She kept track of the time to make “Five on The Bed” to answer those questions.

Boswell said also set up a free front yard library where people can exchange books. 

“I’ve been stocking it and meeting more neighbors this year,” she said.

Boswell said there are two things anyone hoping for a career in art needs — mentors and time. And while she has had many mentors, her roots lie in Adams County.

“I’m grateful for public education in Iowa,” she said.

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Chamber honors community volunteers

The Adams Community Chamber Awards were held Jan. 21 at the Corning Community Center and livestreamed on the Adams Community Chamber Facebook page. 

There were a total of 22 nominees for 2020. The award winners are Best Agriculturalist, Bill Shipley; Entrepreneur of the Year, Primrose Restaurant, Joel Mahr and Jill Fulton; Organization/Business of the Year, Lake Icaria Park and Recreation, Adams County Conservation Board; John McMahon Volunteer of the Year, Jamie Stargell; and The Joe Cook Lifetime Support Award, Beth Waddle. 

Best Agriculturist — Bill Shipley started his lifelong pursuit and passion of farming in 1979 in the Nodaway area. He helped many local farmers while growing his own operation. His operation grew to encompass hogs, corn, soybeans, cattle, and hay as well, in addition to providing custom work for local area farmers including his family.

Shipley was an active member of the community and served as the Adams County Soil and Water Conservation District commissioner for 19 years, serving as chairman from 2002 to 2017, and became vice chair 2017 to current. He also was an Adams County Conservation Board member, holding all the offices over the 12 years he served. He was instrumental in building the cabins, cottages, and new shop at Lake Icaria and other improvements. He was director of District 7 on the Iowa Soybean Association board for eight years and was president (2017) and president-elect (2016) and was currently a board member. He was a leader and promoter of agriculture all over the world during this time and believed in the importance of establishing relationships with other countries as he hosted and toured many different groups from other countries, traveled extensively, making friends all over the world.

Beyond agriculture, Shipley was also an active member of the Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and served as officer and elder there, in addition to being an active member of the FFA Alumni at Villisca, he was the Nodaway Cemetery manager/caretaker for 15 years, past Nodaway fireman, United Mercantile Co-op Board member, BlueJay Booster's Club, Pork Producers, Adams County Fair Board, and countless other area board and committees over the years.

Shipley received the Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award in July 2016 for his conservation practices on his farms, as he was dedicated to farming the ground in a responsible and sustainable way, including being one of the very first area farmers to practice no-till farming in the early ‘90s. 

 “Bill was a progressive farmer, leader for agriculture and an involved community member,” Chamber director Marti Gebbie said. “To Bill’s family, we give our sincerest condolences to you. And we and so many others in our community will miss him and his unwavering dedication of service to agriculture and so many other areas of our county and state. Congratulations Bill Shipley.”

Entrepreneur of the Year — While COVID-19 radically had an impact on the Adams Community and businesses, Primrose Restaurant owners Joel Mahr and Jill Fulton developed a plan to continue offering their food options to the community while following the COVID-19 guidelines for safety.

“But what set them apart this year, was their giving back to the community at a time that was extremely tough in the restaurant business with restrictions being put in and constantly changing,” Gebbie said. “March 16, Joel and Jill announced that they would be giving a free hot meal to any Corning district student grades K-12 from Tuesday- Saturday. And this continued until it was time to go back to in person school time for students.” 

When they announced this endeavor, they made mention of knowing that the struggle for COVID-19 was across the community and could be particularly hard for parents. But they followed up with “This is a tight-knit community that supports each other.” 

“We are thankful that Primrose Restaurant and owners Joel and Jill are part of our community supporting our families,” Gebbie said.

Organization/Business of the Year — The Lake Icaria Conservation Board had the vision to improve the options at Lake Icaria with the construction of two new cottages. Those improvements proved to be a boon under COVID-19 when increased numbers of campers became the norm over the summer and the cabin reservations were filled spring, summer, and fall. The beach area saw increased visitor traffic as well since local pools in Southwest Iowa were closed.

“The leadership and the staff at Lake Icaria are to be commended for dealing so well with the influx of patrons while maintaining a clean and safe park and camping areas for all to visit,” Gebbie said. “Their customer service and building relationships with these visitors set a wonderful example for our community. Your vision to build the cottages, make the improvement to the park, hire and train excellent staff — these have combined to make our Lake Icaria park a great place to be. We thank you for be part of our community and helping us grow.”

John McMahon Volunteer of the Year — Jamie Stargell is active in many community organizations, including Main Street Board as president and committee member, and has been Rotary Club president. As Main Street Corning’s president, she coordinates with others to make the entire community a success. Stargell was instrumental in beginning a new program, the Aspiring Entrepreneur Workshop for youth. Through that program, she was able to connect with youth and start giving them background information and guidance on businesses and development.

Stargell recognized the need for change to keep people engaged in the community and businesses as COVID-19 affected program planning within the community. She found ways to use creative marketing on Facebook and how to hold events safely. She collaborated with three other communities for the first Southwest Iowa Shop Hop to encourage shopping locally and build the strength of area businesses and home vendors.

“She is engaged with supporting activities and always a willing volunteer to lend a helping hand,” Gebbie said.

Joe Cook Lifetime Support Award — Beyond the countless hours of leadership that Beth Waddle has provided in her role as Adams Community Economic Development director and previously as Chamber and Main Street director, she began sharing her love of the community as a volunteer with the Main Street Program as a member, then chairperson of Main Street’s Organization Committee, now known as Public Relations.

Waddle, who was unable to attend the ceremony because she volunteered to help as the Southwest Valley girls basketball scorekeeper, has supported the community’s youth throughout the years, beginning when she was a little league softball coach and provided youth basketball and volleyball AAU coaching. She served as a junior high girls’ softball assistant. She also enjoys her work as a high school speech judge, First Tech Challenge judge, and when she assists Southwest Valley as a judge when they host FFA or FBLA district contests. For a number of years, she was on the advisory board for business education for the Southwestern Community College region. 

Waddle has provided leadership and representation in many community organizations: Corning Rotary, Adams Community Ambassadors, Corning Center for the Arts, Icarian Players Board, and the City’s Community Visioning Committee which supports local planning efforts for community improvements. Other community involvement includes revitalizing the Icarian Players and directing the first play and a couple more when the Opera House reopened. She also has participated in madrigal and cantata performances. 

Waddle has also represented the community at the regional and state level. She has served on the Small Business Development Center Board, Southwest Iowa Coalition, Southern Iowa Council of Government, Community Vitality Commission spearheaded through Iowa State University.

Waddle’s church involvement at St. Patrick Church ranges from time as religious education coordinator, teacher, lector, cantor, liturgy committee, and parish council member. She also represented Southwest Iowa on the Des Moines Diocese Board of Education and chairperson of the Bishop’s Pastoral Council. She is one of the founding members of the AC Christmas Angels program, assisting families not only through the holiday but year-long for close to 20 years. 

“Thank you, Beth, for always wanting the best for our community and our region,” Gebbie said. “You are one of the key players in making that happen and we know that your passion for service for the betterment of others will continue.”

Gebbie and fellow Chamber members thanked the 2020 Chamber Board for their dedication and service:  president Wendi Boswell, vice president Devin Hunter, secretary Marilea Mullen, treasurer Julia Paul, and board members Chris Fenster, Denny Villhauer, Blake Venteicher, Marvin Smith, JT Morrison, Jessica Wilson, and Jason Mitchell.

New Chamber Board officers and members were also installed. They are president Jamie McManis, vice president Devin Hunter, secretary Alyssa Ogburn, treasurer Julia Paul, and board members Chris Fenster, Denny Villhauer, Blake Venteicher, Marvin Smith, Jessica Wilson, and Jason Mitchell.

“Congratulations to the 2020 winners — well deserved,” McManis said. “We have the best support and community involvement and it is because of people such as those we have honored here tonight as nominees and award winners. I challenge you to be part of the effort to keep our community growing and moving forward in 2021. We will continue to meet the challenges before us and work to make our community a great place to live and do business in.”

A look at 620 Davis Ave. and its rich history

By Steve Gruba
Main Street Public Relations

The former Iowa State Savings Bank building at 620 Davis Ave. in Corning is one of the most eye-catching buildings downtown. Partly for its standout light colored brick, but also for its arches and large windows. This handsome structure has a very colorful history.

Although A.F. Oakley ran Corning State Savings Bank in 1892 at another location, he teamed up with his brother-in-law C.H. Vernon to build a new bank on property owned by Mr. Vernon. On April 19, 1900, the brand-new Okey-Vernon Bank opened for business at 620 Davis Ave. boasting two fireproof vaults, one for money and the other for safety deposit boxes. Presumably, it was business as usual until 1915 when there was a two day “run” on the bank probably triggered by a rumor. Thirty-thousand dollars was withdrawn on a Friday and another $10,000 on Monday as people stood in line loudly demanding their money. To assure the public and the bank investors, $100,000 was brought in by special train from Omaha (it was the fastest way to travel then) and ultimately $175,000 in bills and gold were piled on the back counters as visible proof that the bank was solvent. The bank survived the “run” in good shape and in the next year moved to a new location on Davis Avenue.

On May 13, 1916, O.T. Hutchison and his son Hayden, always known as Hayde, moved their harness shop from next door into the remodeled former bank. It now sported an addition to the east housing a large skylight and a big oil tank made of concrete. The tank was handy for treating the tack required in the horse-and-buggy days. The older part of the building was used to display their goods. Dolores Parcher remembers having her good brown shoes dyed black at Hutchison’s in 1927 when she was in the seventh grade. They lasted her through the six years she was in band.

According to an Aug. 9, 1961, article from The Des Moines Tribune, Vernon Ashenfelter apprenticed to Hayde at age 19 in 1922 and bought the business from him in 1945. The need for harness sales and repair had gradually slacked off with the changing times, but Vern retained show harness repair and saddlery as he diversified the business into shoe sales and repair, sporting goods, and hand-crafted jewelry. This odd mix came about from Vern’s hobbies of rock collecting and polishing and his marksmanship with firearms and archery. A shooting range in the basement allowed the potential buyer to try out the weapon right on site!

Vern’s son Richard (Dick) started part-time work at the harness shop while in fifth grade; partly sorting harnesses, but also sweeping out the shop and washing the windows. By 1944 he was working full time in the shop. Vern passed away in 1966 and Dick purchased the business from his mother Bernice and renamed it Ashenfelter Repair Store, even though shoe sales remained a big part of the business. His wife Betty worked side by side with him repairing clothing, tarps, awnings and so many flags that she got the nickname “Betsy Ross of Corning.” According to his daughter Janet (Ashenfelter) Buzzard, the motto of the shop was “We mend the rips, patch the holes, build up the heels and save the soles.”

In 1989 the building came full circle as Dan Dunlap of First National Bank-Lenox restored it back to its original glory. The stamped metal ceiling was polished, the brick walls exposed, and the wood floors waxed to a shine. An attractive modern vault was installed in plain view behind the teller cages that looked like something right out of the Wild West. However, no gun slinging was allowed in the open dirt floored basement original from the earliest days. The old oil tank/harness production area got converted into offices.
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In 2020, this branch of Iowa State Savings Bank (who had taken it over from First National Bank) closed. This jewel of a building now sits empty. Soon, there will be activity bustling from inside the walls of this magnificent building. A local company, Balance4ward headquartered out of Nodaway, will be the next owner. With so much potential, the next chapter of this building is on the horizon. 

COVID-19 vaccine
rolls out locally 

As the first COVID-19 vaccines begin to be distributed across the United States, Adams/Taylor County Public Health administrator Crystal Drake said she is thrilled with the overwhelmingly positive reaction from the public eager to get their vaccination. 

However, vaccines are limited and these early doses are for people in the highest risk category, phase 1A, specifically healthcare workers and long term care residents and staff. 

Phases or risk groups are defined by the federal and state Infectious Disease Advisory Council, Drake said. Currently, these advisory councils are in the process of further defining these phases, groups, and sub-groups. Adams/Taylor County Public Health does not yet know who will get the vaccine next after healthcare workers and long-term care residents and staff. Broad information regarding recommendations exist, but specifics have not been released. 

“Taylor County Public Health is working with facilities in both counties to allocate vaccine doses to the Phase 1A priority populations,” she said. “Taylor County Public Health will continue to provide updates for other priority populations as we receive additional allocations of vaccine. We anticipate putting the updates out via local news outlets, our Facebook page, and website. While right now, the vaccine is being made available to the priority populations, it is anticipated that by mid-2021, there should be enough vaccine for anyone who wants to receive it.” 

Drake said until vaccine is widely available to all, it remains vitally important that all continue to take the necessary steps to decrease the spread of COVID-19. Always wear a mask while in public, practice social distancing, wash one’s hands often, and do not gather with those that do not live in one’s own household. 

“These steps, combined with a safe and effective vaccine, draw the road map to a quick and sustainable recovery,” Drake said.

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COVID-19 vaccine
arrives locally

The Adams/Taylor County Public Health Agency said Dec. 29 that the COVID-19 vaccine has arrived locally.

“We’ve received allocations of the COVID-19 vaccine in both Taylor and Adams counties,” agency administrator Crystal Drake said. “We are excited to have the vaccine in our toolkit to combat COVID-19 and already started vaccinating in both counties.”

The first doses are allocated to healthcare workers, assisted-living facilities (residents and staff), and long-term care facilities (residents and staff), Drake said.

“This is referred to as the 1A priority population,” she said. “The long-term care facilities in both counties are taking part in a federal contract with CVS Pharmacy to provide vaccinations.”

Healthcare workers in group 1A include but are not limited to individuals working in critical care, emergency departments, infectious disease, hospitalists, primary care, anesthesia, respiratory therapy, EMS, phlebotomy, pharmacy, students, volunteers, radiology, federally qualified health centers, COVID-19 vaccinators, COVID-19 specimen collectors, staff/physicians of urgent care centers, acute care clinic, clinical laboratory, hospice, home health, physical therapy, rehabilitation, group homes, environmental services or other areas where direct patient care is seen that has the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

“Qualifications for vaccinations in this priority population is two-fold,” Drake said. “If you are a healthcare worker that works in Taylor/Adams, you could be eligible for vaccination. Also if you are a healthcare worker that resides in Taylor/Adams, you could be eligible for vaccination. At this time, public health is working with entities in each county that employ healthcare workers and providing them with an opportunity to be vaccinated. However, we know that there may be more people than those we’ve reached out to. If you or someone you know meets the healthcare worker qualification and is interested in being vaccinated, please contact our office.”

The next priority population is group 1B and tentatively includes people 75 and older and non-healthcare frontline essential workers. 

“When the 1B priority population opens up, public health will communicate vaccination opportunities on our Facebook page, our website, in local newspapers, through other media outlets and through this email group,” Drake said. “We will also be partnering with local pharmacies and clinics for vaccination opportunities.”
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For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine, visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/index.html or https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus/Vaccine.

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Lake Icaria site
​of two First Day Hikes

Two First Day Hikes will take place at Lake Icaria Recreation Area on Jan. 1, 2021.

The guided hikes will be led by Michelle Wilson of Radiant Wellness Solutions. Hikers can choose between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. starting times for the guided hikes.

Due to COVID-19 precautions, each hike will be limited to 30 people, with RSVPs required to save a space. Social distancing will be observed.

“Parks in Iowa have been hosting First Day Hikes on January 1 for years,” Wilson said. “As a hiker who enjoys the Lake Icaria trails year-round, I’m excited to partner with the Lake Icaria staff again this year to bring more people to the trails for the new year. Walking the trails is an ideal way to start the new year.”

Hikers will meet on Jan. 1 at the nature trail near the beach at Lake Icaria for this event. Participants are encouraged to wear warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes/boots. The beach to dam nature trail is 1.72 miles round-trip.

“The park is a beautiful outdoor setting where hikers can experience the woodlands and all of the birds and wildlife that live here as well as wonderful views of the lake,” Adams County Conservation Board director Travis Paul said.

Lake Icaria is located four miles north of Corning. Lake Icaria offers six miles of walking and hiking trails throughout the park where park visitors can experience the outdoors. Lake Icaria is managed by the Adams County Conservation Board.

An outdoor enthusiast, Wilson leads guided hikes throughout the year on Iowa trails. 

“The lake is such a gem. A lot of people know about the lake for camping and boating or fishing,” Wilson said. “Icaria’s trails are some of my favorites in southwest Iowa.”

For additional information and to register for the 1 p.m. or 3 p.m. guided hike, contact Michelle Wilson at [email protected].

Churches get creative
​for Christmas services

Candlelight Christmas Eve services this year will look a bit different at many churches as COVID-19 cases continue to rise.

While traditional services will continue at some churches, those seeking to social distance can often find virtual or drive-in services.

The First Presbyterian Church of Corning will offer both in-person and virtual Christmas Eve services at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 24, the Rev. Jessica L. Paulsen said. Masks and physical distancing will be required.
Prescott United Church Disciples of Christ will hold Christmas Eve candlelight and communion services at 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. Dec. 24. Safety precautions will be taken.

“The public is welcome to attend if they feel safe do to so to find the peace, comfort, and hope from God in this time of chaos, uncertainty and loss,” Pastor Mary O’Riley said.

Corning United Methodist Church will take a different approach — a Christmas Eve drive-in lessons and carols service in the church parking lot at 7 p.m. Dec. 24.

“Following the closing prayer we will gather outside of our cars — staying socially distanced — and sing ‘Silent Night’ by candle light,” Pastor LeAnn Robine said on the church’s Facebook page. “If you have a battery operated candle please bring one, or if you prefer a jar candle please have something to light it with. We will also have some battery operated candles available for use.”

Those unable to attend the drive-in service can follow the service on Corning UMC’s Facebook page.

Saint Patrick Catholic Parishes will conduct Christmas mass services at 5 p.m. Dec. 24 in Corning, 7 p.m. Dec. 24 in Lenox, 8:30 a.m. Dec. 25 in Lenox, 10:30 Dec. 25 in Corning, and 12:30 p.m. Dec. 25 in Spanish in Lenox

Cooper’s Kitchen
​shares holiday spirit

The holiday spirit is alive and well in Prescott.

Randy and Holly Cooper served more than 50 free Thanksgiving meals and plan to serve 75-100 Christmas Day meals at Cooper’s Kitchen.

The Coopers, who along with four others went together five years ago to buy the Prescott school house and turn it into the Eagle’s Nest community event center, decided to serve Thanksgiving meals this year.

“On Sept. 4 three years ago Mom died. Fifteen days later my step-dad died, both of cancer,” Holly said. “We would always get together at Thanksgiving. We called it ‘Thanksmas’ because we had Thanksgiving and Christmas together. After they passed we didn’t get together as often.”

So with the holidays approaching and COVID-19 restrictions limiting many people’s opportunity to visit family and friends, the Coopers put the word out they would provide a community Thanksgiving dinner. Holly said they had originally planned to charge for the meals but decided instead to accept freewill donations. Once the word got out, though, donations for the dinner started coming in.

“We got a donation from one of Mom’s best friend in Missouri, $200 right off the bat,” Holly said. “We had several other donations that helped us with the meals for people.”

The Coopers posted on social media that they were serving the dinner and all people had to do was place their order by 5 p.m. the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Holly said they had 35 orders that evening but by Thanksgiving morning the number of orders had almost doubled to 61.

“It’s amazing how many people have poured out support,” she said. “I had elves that helped me package meals and the Prescott Fire Department delivered the meals. It was so fun.”

Holly, who said she dressed as a turkey for Thanksgiving and plans to play Santa at Christmas, her elves, and Prescott firefighters served up turkey or ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn or green beans, sweet potato casserole, dressing, cranberry sauce, dinner roll, and pumpkin pie to people in eight different communities — Prescott, Corning, Creston, Orient, Fontanelle, Bridgewater, Lenox, and Cromwell.

The plan is to do the same on Christmas Day. 

“Anybody who needs a meal for whatever reason, please get a hold of us and we’ll make sure we get them a meal,” Holly said. “If they can’t come get them, we will make sure they can be delivered. Someone will deliver their meal to them.”

Those needing a Christmas meal or wishing to donate can call Cooper’s Kitchen at (641) 202-0781 or visit the Prescott Eagles Nest LLC Facebook page for Cooper’s Kitchen’s hours and menu. The Christmas dinner will be served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“We just need to know if they want ham or turkey or corn or green beans,” Holly said. “I’m going to shoot for 75, maybe 100.”

Holly said serving the meals has been a lot of fun, especially with all the volunteer help she’s received. And with COVID-19 cases on the rise and many cancelling or postponing Christmas visits with family and friends serving holiday dinners is reward, she said.

“It was just overwhelming at the amount of people who don’t have family or can’t go to family this year,” Holly said. “If we didn’t have COVID I’d open school and we would do it there. It was overwhelming. Oh we had fun.”

Regular hours for Cooper’s Kitchen are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday.

Unprecedented times bring unprecedented generosity 

Adams County was reminded Nov. 19 the generosity of its residents when Corning First Presbyterian Church hosted its annual food pantry dinner.

The committee in charge of the dinner said that the dinner was not scheduled on the calendar until the middle of October as organizers had not yet felt they could make any plans. The dinner is usually an event with a variety of meats, sides, desserts, and a lot of foot traffic. With the rise of COVID-19 cases in the area it was decided to go back to the drawing board and come up with a new way to help the Adams County Food Pantry.

After some deliberation, the committee decided to reinvent the dinner. A single dinner option was chosen and plans began to create a drive-through style meal for the community, even offering delivery for those in town who felt safer staying at home.

With open arms and packed dinner boxes, volunteers greeted cars as they drove through the alley behind First Presbyterian Church. Meals were handed off with blessings and waves. Cars lined up and kept lining up with generous donations to assist Adams County’s Food Pantry, housed in the Matura Outreach Center.

“Community members continued to show up and dinners continued to be served,” said Megan Boswell, one of the dinner organizers. “Soon the servers ran out of not only meat, but all other food prepared, and still the community continued to give. With empty bellies and full hearts, volunteers went home after the event in awe of the support shown by the community.” 

Even after the Nov. 19 dinner, donations continued to be offered to the cause. On Giving Tuesday, Dec. 1, First Presbyterian Church presented a check for $5,000 to assist the Adams County Food Pantry in its work this year. 

“First Presbyterian has never given more from a dinner than they did in 2020. In this year of change, uncertainty, and trepidation it was beautiful to see the community come together in such a great way for such great work,” Boswell said. “The committee wants to thank all the volunteers and the community for showing up and making this dinner one for the record books.”

To donate to the Food Pantry, contact Holly Steeve at Matura’s Adams County Center at 1402 Hull St. in Corning or by calling (641) 322-4096.

County sees second
​COVID-19 death

The Adams/Taylor County Department of Public Health announced Nov. 25 the second death associated with novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Adams County.

A fifth death in Taylor County was confirmed Nov. 29.

The Adams County individual was of older age, between 61 and 80 years of age, while in Taylor County the individual was over 80 years of age.

“We wish to extend our sympathy to both families,” said Adams/Taylor County Public Health director Crystal Drake. “Taylor County Public Health and all of our key partners throughout the county and state continue to work to stop the spread and impact of this virus in our communities.” 

All residents should:

• Social distance from others by keeping a safe space between yourself and other people who are not from your immediate household.

• Wear a mask when social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.

• Stay home when even mildly ill.

• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow/upper arm. 

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. 

For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the IDPH webpage at https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging- Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus or follow the department on Facebook at @IowaDepartmentOfPublicHealth.

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Christmas for Kids
aims to brighten holiday

Every year there are challenges trying to help all youngsters have an enjoyable Christmas but 2020 brings a variety of challenges for everyone.

One challenge that arose for MATURA this year is trying to ensure it has enough toys available for children in Adams County to help them have a merry Christmas.

“We worked closely with Vincent Else in Nodaway to secure an adequate number of quality items,” said Holly Steeve, director of the local MATURA office. “But after Vincent’s death we didn’t know how we could fill that void.” 

Steeve said she told Brian Peterson about MATURA’s concern and he shared some ideas how the need might be met.

There is no age limit for the children but typically most are sixth grade or younger though there may be some high school age. Steeve said there is no way to know how many youngsters will be needing toys but she estimates there will be more than 40. There is a limit of two toys per child when getting toys at MATURA. There will be some items more suitable for older children.

Steeve stressed that the toys don’t have to be new but do need to be clean and in good condition and MATURA will accept a monetary donation to use to purchase toys.

Peterson discussed the need with Norvell’s People in Need Coffee Group he meets with and they all thought it would be a good project. The group also thought it would be a great idea to include the Adams County Sheriff’s Office. 

Peterson said there was enthusiastic support from the Sheriff’s Office after meeting with Adams County Sheriff Alan Johannes and several deputies. They arrived at the name of the project, Christmas for Kids. 

Norvell’s Coffee Group and the Sherriff’s Office said they would like people throughout Adams County to donate toys or a monetary donation to help all youngsters in Adams County have a merry Christmas. 

Unwrapped items and monetary donations should be dropped off to the Adams County Sherriff’s Office by Dec. 16. Donations can be delivered to the Sheriff’s Office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. any day of the week.

“The department will deliver all donations to MATURA,” Johannes said.
​
Monetary donations should be made with a check made out to MATURA with Christmas for Kids written in the notes section of the check. The Adams County Sherriff’s Office and Norvell’s People in Need Coffee Group encourage all people in Adams County to get involved in helping make Christmas 2020 special for the youngsters in the county by donating to Christmas For Kids.

Create a COVID-19 plan
​for the holidays

With the winter holidays fast approaching and COVID-19 cases on the rise, this year the festivities will require even more planning than most. 

“Everyone is yearning for more normalcy and that includes getting together in-person,” Crystal Drake, Adams/Taylor County Public Health administrator said. “However, we have to stay united in making sure celebrations do not put us and our loved ones at a higher risk of acquiring COVID-19.”

Traditional plans of getting 40 loved ones together at someone’s house is not at the top of the “least risky” list, Drake said. Staying home and participating in virtual celebrations is the best way to protect family and friends. Those must travel and get together in-person with family should be informed of the risks involved. 

“Planners, now is your time to shine,” Drake said. “Careful planning this holiday season can help lessen your risk for contracting and spreading COVID-19. Discuss the following with your family and friends to thoroughly prepare for festive celebrations.”

Make a pact with family and friends to:

• Limit the number invited.

• Stay home if anyone is feeling the slightest bit ill, awaiting test results, or has been exposed to someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days.

• Gather outdoors if at all possible. Bring warm clothes and bundle up.

• Make sure the gathering location allows for enough space between people.
• Open windows to improve air flow.

• Determine a seating plan ahead of time to keep six feet between each household.

• Do not use shared serving utensils.

• Wear masks while together.

 • Have plenty of paper towels, soap and hand sanitizer available. 

If traveling consider the following:

• Cancel plans or trips if someone isn’t feeling well, is awaiting test results, or has been 
exposed.

• Avoid larger crowds, including mass transit.

• Pick another time of year to travel when it is less likely to be busy or congested.

• Before making any travel-related purchases or bookings, learn about the company’s COVID-19 prevention efforts and cancellation or refund policies.

• If traveling solo or by personal vehicle, bring hand sanitizer to use after stopping for breaks, and do not travel with those outside of the immediate household. If one must travel with others, wear masks and crack the windows. 

Black Friday sales bring large crowds. Consider patronizing local shops or online shopping when they are less busy. Be sure to ask what safety precautions the business is taking. 

“Remember, there is a higher risk of spreading COVID-19 as groups get larger and closer together, and gather for longer timeframes, especially while indoors,” Drake said.

Keep the following in mind:

• If feeling ill at all, have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19, or has symptoms of COVID-19, stay home.

• Wear a mask over the mouth and nose that is tight fitting and more than one layer.

• Avoid small spaces that do not allow for distancing of six feet.

• Stay at least six feet away from those who do not live in the home.

• Wash or sanitize hands often. Get a flu shot. 

“It is important to get one each year, but if there were ever a time to get one, it’s now,” Drake said.

Visit the following sites for more information: CDC Holiday celebrations during COVID-19 CDC Travel during COVID-19 or CDC When to delay travel.

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Chamber seeks
​award nominees

The Adams Community Chamber Board of Directors is seeking nominations to honor successful businesses, organizations, and individual leaders in the Adams Community. 

The chamber is asking for nominations in the following five categories, with last year’s winner noted and a brief description of the award:

Entrepreneur of the Year: Any individual/business who have taken the initiative to develop, continue or expand a business in Adams Community through exceptional vision, effective leadership, and innovation in products, services, or processes, market awareness, operational efficiency and/or outstanding customer service. 

Rustic Charm was the 2019 recipient for Entrepreneur of the Year.

Best Agriculturalist: An individual who has dedicated themselves to the advancement within agricultural opportunities in the Adams Community. Individual proven ability and accomplishments as a progressive farmer, including effort and leadership contributed to our community and agricultural organizations. This can include a farmer, processor, marketer, or any individual involved in any of the related areas of agriculture. 

EDGE Ag Solutions was the recipient of the 2019 Best Agriculturalist.

Outstanding Business/Organization of the Year: A business or organization that has continued growth and/or economic health, dedication to customer service, community involvement, leadership, and innovative efforts to adapt to the changing community. 

The Business/Organization of the Year Award winner for 2019 was Backgrounds Coffee Bar and Boutique.

John McMahon Volunteer of the Year: An individual who has shown outstanding volunteer efforts that have made a significant and positive impact on the Adams Community.

The award was renamed in 2011 to honor John McMahon and his efforts in the Adams Community. The Volunteer of the Year Award for 2019 went to Denny Villhauer.

Joe Cook Lifetime Support Award: An individual who has shown long-term dedication to the betterment of the Adams Community. Burton Heaton was the honoree for 2019.

“Adams Community is full of extraordinary citizens and businesses who make a difference in creating a great place to live, work, and visit,” chamber director Marti Gebbie said. “Please help the Adams Community Chamber of Commerce honor them by nominating those individuals and businesses. Please pick up a nomination form at the Lauvstad Center (710 Davis Ave., Corning, IA 50841) in the lobby, available on our website at www.adamscountyiowa.com or request a form via email [email protected].”

The deadline for nominations is Dec. 31.

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SWV students
go to the ‘polls’

By the Iowa Department of Education

It’s all about participation for students in veteran teacher Mike Cormack’s Contemporary Issues class, who coordinated the 2020 Fall Iowa Youth Straw Poll for Southwest Valley High School in Corning.

Conducted by the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office on Oct. 27, the IYSP is an engaging, statewide, interactive exercise which aims to illustrate to students the importance of voting in a democracy. Students across the state will cast their vote for their preferred candidate for the offices of U.S. President, U.S. Senate, and U.S. House of Representatives.

“There’s a lot of good I see out of participating in this program,” said Cormack, whose professional career models the meaning of participation. He teaches everything from required courses like American government and U.S. History Since the Civil War, to electives like microeconomics, Contemporary Issues, and a course on leadership. He also coaches girls’ varsity basketball, and has been assistant softball and baseball coach at the high school.

“The poll does link our students to students statewide,” Cormack said. “We are a rural school, and they do feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in joining other students in a collective effort around the state. I think that’s a positive.”

The students in Cormack’s current events class coordinated and promoted the event, and distributed and collected the ballots at the high school. They put up posters around the building reminding and encouraging students to vote, while remaining absolutely neutral about who should receive a vote.

“I believe my role as a teacher in everything I do, is not to promote Republican, Democrat or independent,” Cormack said. “My job is to promote participation. And good citizenship is being involved. I don’t care if our students are headed toward conservative, liberal or somewhere in between. I am concerned if they are apathetic. And so, anything that we can do that allows them to participate I think is a positive. I don’t see any downside. I see nothing but good.”

Cormack says how accurate the straw poll ends up being compared to the actual vote is irrelevant when compared to the value of knowing what is on the minds of the large number of students around the state and of providing them an outlet to express those views.

“We have some students who will vote in the upcoming presidential election, and many students who will be eligible to vote in the election two years from now,” Cormack said. “I do think it is something where the more you participate, the more likely you are to participate in the future. This is an opportunity for students to either think about voting, or remind themselves that they are about to vote in the near future.

“For so many students who aren’t able to vote now, but do have an interest in what’s going on, it’s an outlet to be able to express what they think about the candidates running for president, senate, and U.S. house,” he said. “It allows them to have some perspective on how the whole process works. Those are real benefits.”

All students at the high school were provided the opportunity to participate. Voting took place on Oct. 27 during the first five minutes of fourth-period classes, which allowed for maximum participation since some students attend morning classes at a local community college.

Schools that participate in the IYSP register via the Iowa Secretary of State’s website, where official ballots are made available. Last year, most students at the high school wanted to participate in the poll and only a few opted out. However, just like in an actual election, no one is ever forced to vote.
Once votes were cast at Southwest Valley High School, the ballots were placed in sealed envelopes, collected, tabulated, uploaded to the Iowa Secretary of State’s website, and then shared with other schools for comparison throughout the state.

“We want this to be representative of what the students are actually thinking,” Cormack said. “We’re probably looking at about 90-95 percent participation. The only challenge this year is for our remote learners or those who have temporary circumstances, and we will try to find ways to allow them the opportunity to have their say.”

Many students are surprised to learn there are nine presidential candidates on the ballot this general election.

“It introduces students to the fact that there are any number of parties in our state and that anybody who can get on the ballot is worthy of our respect for doing so in any one of these races,” Cormack said.

Cormack says the Secretary of State’s website has an added feature where candidates provide a short video biography of themselves and highlight why they are running for office. Sometimes candidates give a general speech and sometimes they tailor their comments to high school students. Teachers can share the videos with students during class.

“What I have generally found is that those messages, regardless of party, are again trying to inspire young people to participate, which is nothing but good,” Cormack said. "Sometimes, we in Iowa don’t realize how we are right in the heart of so much political activity compared to other states. We have national figures that come to our state. With it being such a competitive state, people from all parties do come to our state to campaign. That does not happen in all 50 states.”

Cormack notes that students, just like adults, sometimes get frustrated with the volume of political ads and messaging, but he adds, “I try to remind them that some countries determine their leadership through guns and bullets. We do it through harsh words and at the ballot box and it works out in the end.”
​
“One nice thing about the Iowa Youth Straw Poll is it does seem a wide swath of students, regardless of academic ability, do seem to be interested in this, and that is nothing but good because at the end of the day, regardless of a student’s grades, their background, or anything else, they’re all going to be American citizens, all Iowa citizens,” Cormack said. “It is great that something like this does seem to attract a wide variety of student interest and background."

Holiday Boutique
​to take place

The Corning Opera House Cultural Center is hosting its annual Holiday Boutique with social distancing booths on Saturday, Nov. 7, from 9 am to 3 pm. 

There is no admittance fee. The Opera House is located at 800 Davis Ave. in Corning.

“Due to the social distancing, we have limited the number of vendors in attendance this year,” Opera House executive director De Heaton said. 

The vendors are Norwex, Tupperware, Color Street, Plunder, Pampered Chef, LuLaRoe, Scentsy, Rugged Lace, and crafters. All vendors will be 6 feet apart, masks are optional, and touch points will be cleaned throughout the day. 

“By supporting these independent local businesses you are helping celebrate the uniqueness of our community, supporting local jobs, investing in entrepreneurship and making our community a destination,” Heaton said.

Two upcoming events are on Saturday, Nov. 21. The first one is Daddy Daughter Hair Styling Class from 10 a.m. to noon for $10. Call (641) 418-8037 to reserve a spot. Refreshments and goodie bags will be available for all participants.

That evening will be the Nebraska Showdown Country Gospel show featuring gospel songs by Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley, Willie Nelson, and more. 

Dec. 4-6 will be “The Odd Couple” female version community theater and meal. 

For more information and events visit www.CorningOperaHouse.com.

Voter pre-registration deadline nears

The deadline to pre-register to vote for this election is 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24. 

This applies to registration in person (including registration at driver’s license stations or agencies) or by mail. Voters may register online until 11:59 p.m. After Saturday, Oct. 24, a person may register to vote at the Adams County Auditor’s Office and vote an absentee ballot. This is the same process for registering to vote on Election Day.

Saturday, Oct. 24, is also the last day to request an absentee ballot by mail. Absentee request forms must be in the Auditor’s Office by 5 p.m. The Auditor’s Office will be open on Oct. 24 from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. for registration and voting purposes in the office. 

For more information, contact the Auditor’s Office at (641) 322-3340

Unique challenges
greet new pastor

Every new pastor faces a series of challenges with her new congregation but Corning United Methodist Church Pastor LeAnn Robine is taking on a challenge few imagined a year ago: ministering during a pandemic.

Robine became pastor of Corning United Methodist Church in July but instead of handshakes and hugs as a welcome she was greeted instead by masks and social distancing as the world and Adams County battled COVID-19.

“It has been interesting, that’s for sure,” she said about conducting services and meeting with parishioners during COVID-19. “That’s one of the best words I can use to describe it.”

Despite the challenges of ministering while following safety protocols, Robine said she’s had plenty of help from church members. 

Robine, who was born and raised in Council Bluffs, earned her education degree at College of St. Mary in Omaha, Neb.

“I taught preschool for about eight years,” she said. “I just grew up knowing I was going to be a teacher then God told me I was going to be a different kind of teacher.”

In 2016, she answered the call to preaching, attending seminary online with Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colo., while at the same time pastoring two rural churches outside of Red Oak.

On July 1, Robine moved to Corning and started work as pastor of Corning United Methodist Church, holding services while taking steps to  prevent COIVD-19. At times, that meant holding service in the park or livestreaming services on Facebook.

“We are back to holding services in the church,” she said.

The 10:30 a.m. Sunday service includes masks and safety protocols but it is also still livestreamed for those who would prefer worshiping from home. On Oct. 25, the church plans to hold a children’s service on spooky stories of the Bible at 5:30 p.m. while observing social distancing.

“We want to have a safer place for kids to go trick or treating,” she said.
​
Pastor LeAnn Robine can be contacted at Corning United Methodist Church at (641) 322-3312 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday-Thursday.

​Public Health updates quarantine guidance

The Iowa Department of Public Health is making a change to the Iowa quarantine recommendations for people that have been exposed to a positive case of COVID-19, and Adams/Taylor County Public Health is implementing this change. 

The change applies to non-healthcare, non-residential settings only. This includes businesses, education, and childcare settings.

• Close contacts of COVID-positive cases will no longer need to quarantine for 14 days if a face covering was consistently and correctly worn by both people during the exposure.

• The positive case must isolate and the close contacts should self-monitor. Self-monitoring entails close monitoring for COVID-19 symptoms over the subsequent 14 days, staying home if any symptoms develop and speaking with a healthcare provider about testing in the case of any illness. If people who are self-monitoring become ill but do not get tested, they should remain home until 10 days after symptom onset.

• Household/residential contacts and contacts in health care settings will still have the 14-day quarantine recommendation.

• A face shield is not considered a face covering and quarantine is still required if one or both people were wearing a face shield only. Acceptable face coverings are described in CDC guidance available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html.

• This does not change the isolation requirements for people that are actually sick or COVID-positive to isolate from others until they have had no fever for at least 24 hours (that is one full day of no fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers) and their other symptoms have improved, and at least 10 days have passed since their symptoms first appeared or since they had a positive COVID test if they are asymptomatic. 

An infographic depicting the new IDPH recommendations can be found at https://idph.iowa.gov/Portals/1/userfiles/61/covid19/resources/WhenToQuarantine.pdf.

This decision was made by the Iowa Department of Public Health based on observations within Iowa and some other states that when the COVID-positive case and close contacts were both wearing face coverings at the time of exposure, the contacts were much less likely to develop illness or later test positive. 

Adams/Taylor County Public Health wants to emphasize the importance of wearing face coverings consistently and correctly, with it covering both the nose and the mouth. Other recommendations such as social distancing, staying home when you are sick, and frequently washing or disinfecting hands continue to be important practices to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

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Curb COVID-19
​this Halloween

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Adams/Taylor County Public Health Agency is reminding area residents it is important to use caution and plan ahead for Halloween festivities. 

Public Health is strongly recommending everyone to exercise caution when deciding to participate in trick-or-treating and events that put them in close contact with people outside their households. To lower risk, consider safer and socially distant ways to celebrate.

“This guidance is designed to help curb the spread of COVID-19,” said Crystal Drake, Adams/Taylor County Public Health Agency administrator. “It may be updated as we learn more in the weeks leading up to Halloween.”

Children and parents:

• If sick, or have been in contact with someone who is sick with COVID-19 or has symptoms of COVID-19, stay home and away from others.

• Wear a face mask covering both mouth and nose, even under a Halloween mask. (Note: Face coverings should never be placed on children younger than 2.)

• Trick or treat with people from the immediate household and maintain a six-foot distance from all others.

• Carry hand sanitizer and use it often, especially after coming into contact with frequently touched surfaces and before eating candy.

• Limit the number of houses visited and ask children to stay as far from treat-givers as possible. For small children, consider holding the bag for them. 

Homeowners:

• Do not hand out candy if sick, or have been in contact with someone who is sick with COVID-19 or has symptoms of COVID-19.

• Refrain from having children select their own treats from a bowl/common container. Instead, use a distribution table between the treat-giver and trick-or-treaters.

• Allow for social distancing between families.

• Wear a face mask covering both mouth and nose and wash hands often.

• Do not hold large in-person Halloween parties. If holding smaller parties, limit attendance to 10 or fewer people and hold the event in an outdoor area where social distancing is possible. Avoid activities, such as bobbing for apples, that foster the spread of infection. 

More information on low, moderate and high risk activities can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html#halloween.

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SBDC to offer
​small business tips

America’s Small Business Development Center Iowa is partnering with Main Street Corning to host its #IASBDCMobile initiative from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Sept. 28 at the Corning Opera House.

 A team of experts in marketing, accounting, and operations is traveling to different communities around Iowa and offering free resources regarding e-commerce, QuickBooks, shipping, and business operations. 

The day will start with a chance for business owners to speak with small business experts in person anytime between 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and have their questions answered (come and go as one pleases). America’s SBDC will help promote and educate businesses on the e-commerce platform; Shop Iowa. The SBDC will be offering appointments all day to walk businesses through setting up their online shop on ShopIowa.com, stage products, and answer general questions. 

The SBDC recommends pre-registering for Shop Iowa before scheduling an appointment to make the most of initiative. Register on ShopIowa.com/sell. If interested in setting up an appointment, contact marketing manager Brianna Hall at [email protected].

“With the recent COVID-19 closures, chances to network have been a challenge,” said Ethan Pitt, SBDC Iowa regional director out of Southwestern Community College. “This is a really unique effort from SBDC and Main Street Corning to address that and build stronger business practices throughout south central Iowa.”

 “We are extremely excited to get out there in these communities and talk with businesses directly about ways we can help them,” state director Lisa Shimkat said. “We are also ready to keep promoting the online platform, Shop Iowa, and get businesses registered on the site so that they can start generating more revenue immediately.” 

Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, America’s SBDC Iowa has 15 regional assistance centers located strategically across the state. Since program inception in 1981, the SBDC has helped Iowa businesses and entrepreneurs through no fee, confidential, customized, professional business counseling and practical, affordable training workshops.

For more information on America’s SBDC Iowa programs or services, call (515) 294-2030 or visit www.iowasbdc.org,https://www.facebook.com/AmericasSBDCIowa, or https://twitter.com/IowaSBDC

Corning welcomes
two new resident artists

Corning Center for the Fine Arts recently welcomed two new resident artists.  

“They are very interesting folks with various experiences and expertise,” Linda Shearer said. “Neil Rizos does painting, etching, and copper sculpture and Stephanie Peters is a web site designer and painter.”

The two arrived in Corning on Sept. 3 after spending spring and summer in Cedar Falls for a project Rizos had been working on. They will be residents artists at the Center for Fine Arts for three months.

Peters spent her early childhood living on an Arabian horse farm. She grew up running around open fields and raising animals, including her three goats. During her adolescent years, she lived in the Washington, D.C. area, and took full advantage of the free art museums and galleries of the region. Inspired by the work of Robert Rauschenberg and Alexander Calder, she began painting and drawing. She went on to complete a B.A. in Art History and Studio Art at The University of Arizona, in Tucson in May 2009. 

After graduating, she spent several years traveling and finding her artistic voice, Peters has found inspiration in the natural world since childhood. She has traveled to interesting places to have firsthand encounters like hiking with a herd of desert big horn sheep in Zion, Utah, watching greater flamingos near the Camargue, France, or snorkeling with sharks in the Dominican Republic. These adventures regularly inspire new work she creates on location and in her studio.

Rizos was born in Boston, Mass. His first five years were lived in Manomet, a small community on Cape Cod. From a home perched on the bluff overlooking the sea, his consciousness of the natural world began. The synergy of a receptive spirit and a place of light, water, forests and birds set the course for his life. As a student of art, foreign languages and literature, he traveled throughout Europe and in Africa, living for extended periods in San Jose, Costa Rica; Seville, Spain; Paris, France and Quebec, Canada. 

Upon graduation from the State University of New York, he pursued his love of the natural world and art, working as a natural history illustrator and ornithological researcher from the Arctic to the rain forests. He has studied eagles, hawks and falcons in Montana with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management; Harris hawks in the Southwest with the University of Arizona; migratory birds on the Alaskan tundra with the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service; and participated in other bird studies with public and private organizations in the U.S. and Canada.

Although Peters and Rizos have both traveled widely, they’re now experiencing Southwest Iowa and what the region has to offer.

“So far the town’s been very friendly with us and very welcoming,” Peter said. “We’ve enjoyed exploring downtown Corning.”

As an ornithologist, Rizos said he’s been impressed with the large number of species of birds Iowa has to offer, from trumpeter swans to sandhill cranes.

“Iowa isn’t known as a big bird destination but I think I’ll get a different perspective on that from my time here,” he said. “I’m looking forward to the autumn migration.”

Wildlife and nature are the subjects of the art, some of which is display at the Corning Center for the Fine Arts. The two will be working there Wednesdays and Fridays and invite people to stop by to visit with them and see their work.

And as for Corning itself, the two say they’ve been impressed by what it has to offer. They say the new Corning Hotel, the Opera House, the Center for Fine Arts, and other amenities have kept the community vibrant and the local economy strong, which isn’t always the case for many small towns.
As artists and entrepreneurs, Rizos said he admires the efforts the community puts into making it a destination and how its residents work together to take charge of their own destiny.

“It’s a great place,” Rizos said. “I’m impressed by Corning.”

“We’re liking the area,” Peters said.
​
For more about the artists and their work, stop by the Corning Center for Fine Arts or visit their websites at www.stephartist.com or www.rizosart.com.

West inducted into 4-H Hall of Fame

Donna West is the 2020 Adams County inductee into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame. 

West lived more than 30 years on the family’s now Century Farm until she made the tough decision to move to town to be near her job. Although she no longer lives on the farm, she still takes interest in the family operation of crops and livestock and stays active with her children, grandchildren, and now great-grandchildren.

For many years, West was a leader for the Royal Workers 4-H Club, later becoming the Prescott 4-H Workers. She spent endless hours helping with projects and record books, sometimes finishing the night before the Adams County Fair. West spent endless hours at the fair making sure members got their projects to the judges on time and final touches were complete. She also traveled to other clubs’ achievement shows to judge 4-H’ers and provide helpful hints. West was asked to be the Family and Consumer Science and Visual Arts superintendent for six to seven years, volunteering her time to spend with the 4-H clubs and families, including mentoring her own grandchildren. She said it brought her happiness to see projects be chosen to go on to the Iowa State Fair and smiles beaming on faces.

West also donates her time to her communities of Prescott and Corning. She was a youth leader and treasurer for the Prescott United Church and served as treasurer for the Corning United Methodist Church. She provided leadership to the Adams Community Ambassadors and Rotary Club as well as the Chamber of Commerce. She also sat on the boards for Resource Conservation and Development and Midwest Opportunities. She currently still delivers Meals on Wheels and serves as treasurer for the Rose Ann Auxiliary at CHI Health Mercy Corning. As a former auditor/deputy auditor for more  than 25 years, she also helped after retirement with county elections.

West has three hobbies: sewing, gardening, and playing cards with friends. On the farm she planted large gardens and grew flowers. Her love of flowers followed her to town where she plants flowers in pots on Main Street Corning. Her time sewing is limited, but grandchildren and great-grandchildren are reaping the rewards of her labor with handmade quilts.

It is her time at the Iowa State Fair, though, that West looks forward to each year. What was a six-day adventure over every inch of the grounds has become a one- to two-day journey taking in as many sites and shows as she can. The 4-H Building and Ag Building are still stops on the route, but sitting on a bench under a shade tree brings her rest as she watches families and enjoys a favorite fair food. A trip to the beef and pork tents is a must for her every year.

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CARIE MORALES/Free Press — The Corning Hotel officially opened for business Aug. 28. From left are Heather Lily, Marilyn Werner, Betsy Akin, Scott Akin, Donna Hogan, Jim Ruppert, Doug Oldenkamp, Joel Morrison, Brandon Schulte, and ReNae Fulton.

Corning Hotel
​open for business

The Corning Hotel officially opened for business Aug. 28 with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Donna Hogan, president of Corning Hotel LLC, thanked the more than 40 investors, Adams County Economic Development Corporation, the Adams County Board of Supervisors, Corning City Council, Corning Municipal Utilities, the Corning Hotel Board of Directors, DCI construction and its subcontractors, MidAmerican, Southwest Iowa Rural Electric Cooperative, and the community for its support in the project. 

The 33-room, two-story hotel includes two extended-stay rooms with kitchenettes, a double king suite, and various king and queen rooms. Amenities include cable TV, wireless internet, guest laundry, and free breakfast.

“We took many tours all day until 7 p.m. and had a great response to the hotel,” Hogan said. “The Corning Hotel will compliment all the businesses and tourist sites in our community.”

Lifelong Adams County resident ReNae Fulton is the manager and Heather Lily is the assistant manager.

“They have put a great team together to run the hotel,” Hogan said.

To book a room or for more information about the Corning Hotel, located at 2260 Juniper Ave., visit thecorninghotel.com or call (641) 418-8190.

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Eligibility expanded
​for Utility Disruption Prevention Program

The Iowa Economic Development Authority announced Aug. 21 that more Iowa small business owners and nonprofits are now eligible to receive financial assistance with electric and natural gas utility bills.

Eligibility criteria for the Iowa Small Business Utility Disruption Prevention Program has been expanded to include utility assistance for eligible small businesses and nonprofits for electric or natural gas service provided between March 17 and Oct. 15.

Eligible small businesses and nonprofits must have experienced a COVID-19 loss of income. Full eligibility information and the application is available at iowabusinessrecovery.com. The program will accept applications through Oct. 31 or until all funds have been exhausted.

The program will provide short-term relief in the form of direct payments to utility providers to be applied to accounts. A minimum of $400 and up to $7,500 can be applied towards utility bill costs for eligible small businesses and nonprofits. The state allocated approximately $14.5 million of federal CARES Act funds for the program when launched in early July.

“We’re pleased to announce the extension and expansion of the utility assistance available to COVID-19 impacted small businesses and nonprofits as they work tirelessly to recover from the far-reaching impacts of the unparalleled pandemic,” IEDA and Iowa Finance Authority executive director Debi Durham said.

Questions regarding the Iowa Small Business Utility Disruption Prevention Program can be addressed by calling (515) 348-8914 or toll free at 1-855-300-2342

Feed the Pack
in its third year

Feed the Pack is beginning this new school year by continuing to provide free weekend meals to eligible students on free or reduced meals in the Southwest Valley School District of Villisca and Corning.

Now into its third year, Feed the Pack is a program designed to provide nutritious, non-perishable, and easy-to-prepare food to help supplement nourishment over the weekends and holiday breaks when school is closed. 

“Good nutrition plays a critical role in a student’s overall health and school success,” Feed the Pack’s Melody Miller said. “Many students eat breakfast and lunch at school but go hungry on weekends and extended breaks. Providing students with this added nutrition helps them go to school on Monday morning healthy and ready to learn.”

Interested families may pick up the Opt In form at their child’s school.

“We understand circumstances are always changing, therefore families may sign up any time through the school year,” Miller said.

Feed the Pack continues to appreciate community support and generous donations from individuals and businesses. A donation of $150 provides one child with weekend and holiday meals for the entire school year. A donation of $75 covers the cost of meals for half a year or $37.50 quarter. 

“All donations help to ensure the success of the program and make a positive impact in the lives of our students,” Miller said. 

Donations may be sent to Feed the Pack, c/o Katrina Ogburn at Miltner Insurance, 706 Adams St., Corning, IA 50841.
​
For more information contact Melody Miller at [email protected] or Lindsey Hogan at [email protected]

Submitted photo — Kaiden and Ian Bagley, Gavin Bagley's older brothers, helped paint the outside of the Living for Christ Outreach Gavin Bagley Children’s Center in Corning.

Children’s center
​to honor Gavin Bagley

The Living for Christ Outreach prayer center in Corning is in the process of becoming a memorial for Gavin Bagley who drowned last month at the age of 4.

“We will be turning it into the Living for Christ Outreach Gavin Bagley Children’s Center,” Living for Christ Pastor Tim Blaisure said.

Blaisure said he wants to honor his grandson and help other young people learn more about the Gospel of Christ.

Blaisure said he and his family had gone to Massachusetts because his mother-in-law was dying. The day after they arrived, he said they were sitting around the pool at his sister-in-law’s house when Gavin asked his grandmother how he could know if he was going to heaven.

“She asked him if he knew Jesus, ‘do you know him in your heart?’” Blaisure said. “And he said, ‘Yes Grandma.’”

Work is already under way on the Gavin Bagley Children’s Center. The outside was recently painted, thanks in part to Gavin’s older brothers, Kaiden and Ian. Inside the prayer center, new carpet, fresh paint, and children’s murals are being added.

“We’re working on the inside making it safe for kids,” Blaisure said.

Volunteers have helped with the work and donations have made it possible to complete outside improvements. Plans are to order a sign for the building and seek approval from the city to add an iron gate to set up safe a play area for youngsters. 

“We do everything debt free,” Blaisure said. “We don’t do it if we don’t have the money for it.”

The Living for Christ Outreach Gavin Bagley Children’s Center will include activities for all ages, newborn to 12th grade. Blaisure said a big-screen TV will be added to show movies and videos from CBN Superbook Kids, a Bible-based website that offers free online games. 

“I’m homeschooling my grandsons now so down the road we may set up some computers for homeschooling,” Blaisure said. “There’s a lot of opportunity.”

Blaisure said he plans to dedicate the Living for Christ Outreach Gavin Bagley Children’s Center on Gavin’s birthday, Dec. 15. 

Anyone wishing to volunteer their time or donate to the memorial should contact Blaisure

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SWV prepares
for fall sports

Following guidance concerning COVID-19 precautions from the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union and the Iowa High School Athletic Association, Southwest Valley Schools has crafted a Return to Fall Sports Plan.

The full versions of the IHSAA and IGHSAU return fall sports guidelines can be found on the organizations’ websites. 

“This document’s purpose is to slim down the above documents and re-state the guidelines that are presented to us and that we must follow in order to have fall sports this year,” the SWV plan says. “We greatly appreciate your understanding, flexibility and willingness to work with us in order for us to follow these guidelines.”

General information includes:

• Transportation — District policy is that everyone who rides in a school vehicle (bus, van, etc.) for any activity will be required to wear a facemask.

• Possible or positive COVID-19 case​ — Possible or positive cases will be immediately directed to the school nurses (Lindsey Hogan/Darcy Dalton) for further evaluation. 

• Health Screening — ​Students, coaches and volunteers who are a part of SWV activities will be asked to self-screen their symptoms. Temperatures will not be taken at this time. Any individual who is reporting symptoms and/or a temperature of 100.4 will not be allowed to practice or attend events. These will be considered excused absences. Anyone who does not feel well should stay home.

• Social distancing —​ The overarching safety principle in all areas of athletic activities (meetings, practices, travel, instruction, drills, benches, spectators, locker rooms, training rooms, concessions, restrooms, etc.) is that individuals should maintain 6 feet of social distancing when possible.

• Hand sanitizing — ​Everyone will be highly encouraged to sanitize and/or wash hands whenever possible. Everyone is encouraged to bring their hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizer will be available when possible.

• Equipment sanitizing​ — Any equipment that is shared by student-athletes should be sanitized before and after practice, as well as before and after competition.

• Towels​ — Individuals should never share towels. Student-athletes must bring their own clean towel and launder it after each use. 

• Locker rooms — ​Locker rooms will only be used to change in. Locker rooms will be sanitized after each use. All equipment and clothing must be taken home. Anyone who needs a place to put their equipment during a school day will be asked to place it in the high school gym against the west wall.

• Water​ — Each individual student-athlete must bring their own water to practice. If a hydration station is provided, students must sanitize their hands prior to using it. An alternative practice is to assign one person to fill water bottles and that person should wear a mask and protective gloves.

• Spectators —​ ​Spectators should use 6 feet of social distancing when possible. Families may sit or stand together but should social distance from others. Frequent reminders should be made via public address.

• Press box or scorer’s bench​ — These areas should be limited to, in order of priority: Essential personnel, scorekeeper, scoreboard operator, announcer; home and visitor coaching staffs (football); media as per guidelines.

• Concessions — ​Concessions will be announced at a later date.

Spacing between players, coaches and staff will take place as much as possible for football, cross country, and volleyball. Coaches will keep a record of attendance for possible contact tracing. Teams will not exchange handshakes but can acknowledge opponents with other appropriate non-contact measures. Hand sanitizing should be used as much as possible. 

For football, ​an officials’ timeout will be taken every four minutes of game clock time in order for teams to properly sanitize and hydrate during the contest. This timeout is to be two minutes in length. Breaks in between quarters will now be two minutes in length. Masks are allowed but not required. ​Plastic shields covering the entire face (unless clear and integrated into the face mask and attached to the helmet) shall not be allowed during the contest. It is recommended that players keep their tooth and mouth protector in their mouths at all times. Spitting is to be prohibited.​ Water is to be consumed only. Players should not rinse their mouth, rinsing their mouth piece, or pour water on their faces or necks. The ball should be cleaned and sanitized throughout the contest using sanitizing solutions recommended by the ball manufacturer. 

Cross country meets may consider using staggered, wave, or interval starts. Note at the current time the state qualifying meet and state meet will be using the traditional mass start. Athletes and coaches should bring their own water bottle. A decision about SWV’s home meet awards ceremony will be made at a different time. It is suggested that SWV either find a way to do it with social distancing considered or not have an awards ceremony. 

Volleyball rosters are to be submitted directly to the officials’ table before the 10-minute mark. Roster submission at the pre-match conference is suspended indefinitely. Teams are required to bring their own volleyball to use for warm-ups for away matches. Volleyballs must be marked to help with identification purposes when traveling with volleyballs. Teams are not allowed to warm-up outside of the court near their opponents while their opponents have the court for the six-minute portion of the 5-6-6 warm-up protocol, unless there is another court area for them to utilize. It is permissible for teams to share the court of the 50-minute ball handling portion of warm-up as teams will be socially distanced by the net. There will be no spectator seating on the first two rows of either side of bleachers. Teams are not to switch benches between sets. 
​
Host schools must have at least three volleyballs to use for the in-game ball rotation to allow for volleyballs to be sanitized while not in use. The host school will be responsible for sanitization of the in-game volleyballs in rotation. Volleyballs should be removed from play and sanitized if they are touched by a spectator.

Potential exposure
at Taylor County Fair

Out of an abundance of caution, Taylor County Public Health is advising anyone who attended the Taylor County Fair or who has had prolonged contact with someone who attended this event to be aware they have potentially been exposed to novel coronavirus. 

The Taylor County Fair was held July 13-18 in Bedford.

New COVID-19 cases also were reported July 26 in both Adams and Taylor counties, bringing the total of confirmed cases to 13 in Adams County and 92 in Taylor County.

Symptoms of COVID-19 can appear two to 14 days after exposure. Exposure could have occurred at the event or by close contact with someone who attended the event. There were individuals in attendance at this event who reside outside of Taylor County and are also at risk of exposure.

“During contact tracing you may be contacted by the positive case or our office regarding your recent exposure,” Adams/Taylor County Public Health Agency administrator Crystal Drake said. “We know that anyone who comes into close contact with someone who has COVID-19 is at increased risk of becoming infected themselves, and of potentially infecting others. Contact tracing can help prevent further transmission of the virus by quickly identifying and informing people who may be infected and contagious, so steps can be taken to not infect others.“

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath. Other less common symptoms are chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain and weakness, headache, sore throat, and new loss of taste or smell. Anyone experiencing symptoms is asked to isolate himself from others and call his health provider about testing. 

Strategies to prevent the spread of COVID-19 include the following:

• Social distance from those outside the immediate household.
• Wash hands frequently.
• Disinfect surfaces frequently.
• Wear a face covering when in a public setting and in close contact with others.
• Stay home sick.

“If identified as a close contact, it’s important to look out for symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell,” Drake said. ‘You will need to quarantine for 14 days from your last contact with the positive case and seek medical attention if you start to experience symptoms.”
​
For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the state COVID-19 webpage at https://coronavirus.iowa.gov/ and follow the Taylor County Public Health department on Facebook at @TaylorCountyPublicHealth.

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County sees
​12th COVID-19 case

Adams County saw an increase of four new COVID-19 cases July 11-20.

“We have another confirmed case to report in Adams County,” Adams/Taylor County Public Health Agency administrator Crystal Drake said. “The total confirmed cases in Adams County is now at 12.”

The agency reported Adams County’s first three cases May 20, two days after Taylor County saw its third COVID-19 case.

Drake said 340 Adams County residents have been tested for the coronavirus and 728 Taylor County residents have been tested. In relation to population, that is 9.3 percent of the population in Adams County and 11.7 percent of the population in Taylor County.

“No county knows the total number of people infecting with COVID-19,” Drake said. “All we know is the infection status of those who have been tested. All those who have a lab-confirmed infection are counted as a confirmed case. This means that the counts of confirmed cases depend on how many individuals in a county actually get tested. Without testing there is no data. Testing is our window onto the pandemic and how it is spreading in our communities.

“We are fortunate to have testing opportunities in our local clinics and hospitals,” she said. “Please call your local provider to get information on being tested or go to testiowa.com to register for testing at a TestIowa clinic in Clarinda or Creston.”

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4-H Program
awarded grant

The Adams County 4-H Program was awarded a $1,500 grant through the Iowa 4-H Foundation for its Technology Program.

Funds given to the Adams County 4-H Program will support youth in STEM, communication, and the arts. With limited internet access across Adams County, the technology purchased will allow staff a better opportunity to serve at county weigh-ins, community events, and county fair. iPads will be utilized in future programs to educate volunteers, and for youth activities.

The Iowa 4-H Foundation offers grant support to state, regional, and county 4-H programs each year valued at more than $200,000. This summer, grants have been awarded to programs from over 20 counties across the state of Iowa, each offering a wide variety of 4-H opportunities and experiences.

“We’re proud to recognize the efforts of the Adams County 4-H Program through this grant to help them continue their work to support the young people in their communities,” said Emily Saveraid, executive director of the Iowa 4-H Foundation. “This investment in 4-H gives youth the opportunity to gain valuable skills to benefit them both now and in the future.”

The Iowa 4-H Foundation reviews and awards grant funds twice a year. The grants are made possible through donor contributions and the endowment created as a result of the sale of the Iowa 4-H Center. 

A full list of all grant recipients include:

• 4-H National Wildlife Habitat Education Program 
• 4-H Place Maker Program 
• Adair County: Springbrook Outdoor Adventure Camp 
• Adams County: Technology 
• Animal Science, Equine & Dairy Judging Contests 
• Artist Next Door 
• Arts in the Park 
• Butler County: Ricochet 
• Camera Corps 
• Clay County: Ag in the Classroom 
• Clover Kids: Healthy Living 
• Dallas County: First Generation Programming 
• Field Team Programming Kits 
• Global Citizenship 
• Guthrie County: Creative Coding 
• Healthy Living: Cooking Pilot Program 
• Iowa 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor Workshop 
• Iowa 4-H Shooting Sports State Program 
• Livestock Quiz Bowl and Skillathon Contests 
• Madison County: It’s Time for STEM 
• Mindfulness Initiatives 
• National 4-H Congress & Conference 
• Northwest Counties: Virtual Camp 
• Page County: Cooking and Food Safety 
• Polk County: Mindfulness Workshop Series 
• Regional Intermediate Clothing Event 
• Sac County: Wonder League 
• State 4-H Council 
• State 4-H Recognition Day 
• SWITCH 
• Tri-County 4-H Camp 
• Volunteer Development and Training 
• Wapello County: EmpowerU

Southwest and Northwest counties include Buena Vista, Clay, Dickinson, Cherokee, Lyon, O’Brien, Osceola, Plymouth, Sioux, Woodbury, Adair, Adams, Cass, Montgomery, Page, Taylor, Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Pottawattamie East, Pottawattamie West, Audubon, Carroll, Crawford, Greene, Guthrie, Shelby, Calhoun, Ida, Monona, Sac, Woodbury.
​
The Iowa 4-H Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides the private financial resources to develop and deliver quality 4-H youth programs throughout the state of Iowa. These opportunities help young people enhance their ability to use critical thinking, leadership, communication, and social skills — tools that will give them a competitive edge in their future endeavors. More information can be found  at www.iowa4hfoundation.org.

Submitted photo — Adams Community Economic Development Corporation’s Donna Hogan, left, and Corning Mayor Jan Mercer Leonard, right, pose July 3 for a photo with POET Biorefining-Corning’s Greg Olsen after honoring him for his 13 years of service to the community.

ACEDC honors
POET’s Olsen

The Adams Community Economic Development Corporation honored POET Biorefining-Corning’s Greg Olsen on July 3 for all the projects completed and lives touched through his commitment to excellence for his team at POET and to the community.

For more than 13 years, Olsen has been at the helm of POET Biorefining-Corning and a leader in the Corning and Adams County community. On July 10, he will officially retire from POET.

“When the Adams Community Economic Development team first met Greg, they knew Poet had picked the right person to lead POET-Corning to be the best,” ACEDC’s Donna Hogan said. “He has proved they were right time and time again.”

Beyond his leadership at POET, Hogan said Olsen was committed to giving back to his community.  With POET’s blessing, Olsen was able to invest more than $850,000 in projects.  They included holiday lights in Central Park, created the Santa House, crosswalks in downtown Corning and around the schools, tree planting at Lake Icaria, safety enhancements around the Widener building, new bleachers and new lights at Spring Lake Park, new uniforms for Corning Youth Club baseball, a new infield at Spring Lake ballfield, sponsor of races, and a new press box at Adams County Speedway, Watch Me Grow and other STEM activities at Southwest Valley Schools, holiday parade entries, RAGBRAI volunteers, the new fire station, Corning Theater, new fire truck, Adams Community Aquatic Center, Central Park pavilion and benches, Corning Opera House, Southwest Cruisers car show, SWV senior interviews,  SWV Feed the Pack, chamber tent, and sponsorships for several years of chamber and Main Street activities, to name a few.

“Greg would hear of a need and make something happen,” Hogan said. 

The community presented Olsen with the Consider It Done Award for sharing his gifts, talents, leadership, and resources with the community.  

“He will be missed, and the community wishes him well,” Hogan said.

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Livestock sale undergoes change for this year’s fair

Amid COVID-19 concerns, the Adams County Fair traditional livestock sale will be anything but traditional.

“Our 2020 Adams County Fair is definitely going to look different this year,” said Dawn Shuler, one of the sale organizers. “We are not going to be able to have a traditional livestock sale. We have appreciated all of your support throughout the years and know that this year has been unique.”

While the traditional livestock sale will not take place individuals and businesses can still support Adams County youth participating in the fair, which will be held July 9-15.

 “We are working with the Corning Locker and have a limited number of spots reserved for swine,” she said. “If you or someone you know would be interested in purchasing a 4-H pig to butcher from one of our Adams County 4-Her’s please let me know.”

Shuler said the price for the pig will be $1 per pound and buyers are responsible for the processing at the locker. The pig would be delivered to the locker on July 13. Due to the limited locker spots, this is on a first come, first serve basis. Buyers will be contacted about the amount owed on Sunday, July 12, after the swine weigh-in in the evening. Checks can be made out to Adams County Fair Board.

“We are also selling butchered broiler chickens this year,” Shuler said. “These will cost $25 a chicken.  They will be available for pickup on July 13.”

Those interested in buying a butchered whole chicken should contact Shuler. These are also on a first come, first serve basis.

“If you or your business is interested in donating to the Adams County 4-H youth but do not want to purchase an animal we will also take donations,” Shuler said.  “Those donations will be split amongst all livestock exhibitors at the Adams County Fair.”
​
For more information, contact Dawn Shuler at (641) 782-0638 or by email at [email protected].

CARIE MORALES/Free Press — Cash Brammer received the Junior Beef Showmanship Award during the 2019 Adams County Fair.

Adams County Fair
​to take place July 9-15

Organizers are gearing up for Adams County Fair, which will be held July 9-15 with the theme “Red, White, and Blue. This Fair is for You!”

While a schedule has been released for the 4-H and FFA Fair, the schedule is tentative and will be adapted to meet practices and guidelines responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Evy Ganfield, Adams County Extension youth coordinator, said things “are going to be different” this year. Social distancing guidelines will be in place and only a limited number of people will be allowed in the ring for the livestock shows. Spectators, who in past fairs have filled the seats during the shows, are encouraged to watch livestreams of the shows instead of attending.

“Our goal is to have the shows livestreamed,” she said.

Ganfield said details about the shows will be shared as they are finalized on Adams County Extension website and the 4-H and Adams County Fair Board Facebook pages.

Ganfield said exhibits will be conference judged with entrants meeting face to face with judges 6 feet apart while using personal protective equipment. Each evening, exhibits will be open to the public but the building will include a designated entrance and exit and a clearly marked perimeter visitors will follow while maintaining a 6 feet distancing guideline. Each exhibitor will get to choose one exhibit for the building.

The tentative schedule includes:

July 9 — Static exhibit judging beginning at 8:30 a.m. (exhibitors will be scheduled individually and should arrive at their assigned time); tall corn contest at 6:30 p.m.

July 10 — Horse check-in 8:30 a.m., horse show 9 a.m., 4-H Safety Education in Shooting Sports exhibition at 3 a.m. at the Corning Gun Club.

July 12 — Sheep and goat weigh-in 8 a.m., broiler and poultry check-in 10 a.m., sheep and goat show 11 a.m., broiler show 11 a.m., poultry show 1 p.m., swine weigh-in 5 p.m. (exhibitors are scheduled by family and should arrive at their assigned time).

July 13 — Swine show 7:30 a.m., rabbit check-in and small pet check-in 10:30 a.m., rabbit and small pet show 11 a.m.

July 14 — Dairy check-in 7 a.m., dairy show 8 a.m., beef weigh-in 8 a.m., beef show 10:30 a.m., dog check-in 12:30 p.m., dog show 1 p.m.

July 15 — Tentative carcass judging 9 a.m., carcass results announced at noon at Corning Meat Processing with swine carcass exhibitors present.

The public is reminded the 2020 Adams County 4-H and FFA Fair scheduled is tentative and is encouraged to visit the Adams County Extension website and the 4-H and Adams County Fair Board Facebook pages for updates.

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Non-profits receive
​crisis relief

The Adams Community Foundation recently helped five local Adams County non-profits with financial assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic that has threatened their livelihood over the past several months. 

Assistance was awarded to the Corning Opera House and Cultural Center in the amount of $13,500, Corning Center for the Fine Arts in the amount of $3,600, Corning American Theater in the amount of $4,000, and the Johnny Carson Birthplace Society in the amount of $1,890, as well as MATURA in the amount of $3,900. 

In all $26,890 was given to provide stop-gap funding for these organizations in their time of need.

“These organizations are vital to the fabric of our community and they need our assistance going forward,” Adams Community Foundation’s Nancy Turner said. “Donations to any of these organizations are still greatly appreciated and will help them continue their work in our community going forward. If you would like more information on how to give, contact any of the organizations directly or contact the Adams Community Foundation.”

CMU receives
​$500,000 grant

Corning Municipal Utilities was awarded a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant for water system improvements.

CMU’s grant was part of $4.6 million awarded June 4 for water and sewer infrastructure projects in 14 communities across the state. The Iowa Economic Development Authority made the awards through the CDBG program, which provides support for community improvements.

IEDA received 16 applications totaling $5.3 million in funding requests. Grants are awarded based upon the benefit to low- and moderate-income persons, financial need, project impact and readiness, and commitment of local resources to the project.

“Programs such as CDBG, whether administered by IEDA or the Iowa Finance Authority, serve our communities by providing much-needed resources for infrastructure development,” said Debi Durham, director of IEDA and the IFA. “With the compendium of programs we manage, I like to say there is no state problem we can’t solve.”

CDBG funds enable communities to make needed improvements to water and sewer systems, improve housing conditions for low-income homeowners, provide facilities for disabled and at-risk individuals, and make transformative downtown improvements.

The CDBG program is federally funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. IEDA is responsible for administering the CDBG funds in the non-metropolitan areas of the state.

For more information on CDBG or other community programs, visit iowaeda.com/community or email [email protected].

CARIE MORALES/Free Press — A Southwest Valley junior varsity softball player practices batting June 1, the first day Timberwolf softball and baseball teams were allowed to prepare for the summer season under COVID-19 guidelines.

Timberwolves to begin summer play

Southwest Valley athletes returned to the practice field June 1.

SWV athletics director Allen Naugle released May 29 a copy of the district’s plan to begin summer sports.

“We are very happy to be back in action in some capacity and looking forward to playing ball,” the plan says. “We would like to discuss a few items before we list all of the guidelines that we will need to follow in order to play ball this summer. We are going to try to make this experience as close to ‘normal’ as possible for the players, coaches, and fans, but it will most certainly be different. We are asking for your patience and cooperation as we figure out how to follow all the guidelines presented to us. As most of you know, we are the first state to have school sponsored athletic events. We are creating our plan based on the guidelines set forth by the Governor, the Iowa Board of Education and the IHSAA/IGHSAU.”

The practice guidelines include:

• All athletes and coaches will have their temperature checked and COVID-19 symptoms screened before being allowed to practice. If an athlete or coach has a temperature above 100.4, they will be sent home and not allowed to practice. Every player and coach will have temperatures taken. Managers or support personnel will also have temperatures taken. All temperatures will be written down and given to the superintendent weekly. Symptom screenings will be based on Centers for Disease Control guidelines.

• No dugouts will be used during practices.​ The coaches will help players contain their belongings in an area that is at least six feet apart from each other.

• Parents must remain in their cars if they drop off their students.

• Athletes will leave school facilities immediately following completion of practices.​ “Hanging out” in the parking lots will not be allowed before or after practices.

• Players should plan to use their own gloves and bats, if possible.​ Players who plan to use their own bat should have their coach inspect it to make sure it meets state guidelines. SWV has ordered more catching gear and batting helmets. All equipment will need to be sterilized between uses; no exceptions.

• Players must bring their own water/beverages.​ Players will not be allowed to share water. The hydrants at the fields will be locked and will only be used for watering the field. 

• Coaches will be responsible for ensuring that physical distancing is taking place.​ This may change the way that practices are normally run.

• All shared equipment will be sanitized before and after each practice.

• No one with symptoms of illness will be allowed to attend practice. Players who do not feel well should stay home.

• Players and coaches are encouraged to bring and use their own hand sanitizer.

• Sunflower seeds are banned this summer. ​This is a guideline from the Iowa Department of Education. Athletes will not be allowed to spit. Failure to follow this guideline will result in immediate dismissal from practice for the day.

• If there is imminent weather and practice cannot take place outside there will be no inside practice.​ The Activity Center and high school gyms will not be used for baseball and softball activities.

• Restrooms can only be used one person at a time. 

Similar guidelines are in place for games, which begin June 15. Team meals, which have been a part of previous seasons, are not allowed this summer. There will also be no concessions and no bleachers.

“We have removed the bleachers from the fields in Corning,” the plan says. “We ask that you bring your own chairs and please practice physical distancing. We are lucky that we have plenty of space and hills for fans to sit on and still see the game.”

No one, including fans, with symptoms of illness will be allowed to attend games.

Another baseball and softball tradition that will not take place this summer is the congratulatory handshake followed games.

“We are hoping that we can find another way to show good sportsmanship after games but right now, there are no handshakes after games with the opposing team,” the plan says.

Tickets to the games will be freewill donations with an employee stationed at the gate to monitor the free will donation container.

If there is an outbreak of COVID-19 with players/coaches, the district will evaluate and reserve the right to postpone or cancel the season.
​
“We completely understand that some of these guidelines will change the way that you attend games this summer. We do ask for your cooperation and your patience as we navigate through uncharted waters,” the plan says. “We are required to follow the guidelines presented to us by the IHSAA/IGHSAU and the Iowa Board of Education. These guidelines are non-negotiable and in order for our community to have baseball and softball this summer, we need everyone’s cooperation.”

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COVID-19 reaches
Adams County

Adams County now has five confirmed cases of COVID-19.

As of May 25, the Iowa Department of Public Health said 95 Adams County residents have been tested for the virus. Of the five positive cases, one has recovered.

Adams/Taylor County Public Health Agency reported Adams County’s first three cases May 20, two days after Taylor County saw its third COVID-19 case. Since then, Taylor County’s total has grown to 39 positive cases.

“We are reporting a higher number of confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 today, with 25 new cases in Taylor County,” Adams/Taylor County Public Health Agency assistant administrator Crystal Drake said May 24. “Most of these positives are the result of targeted testing of workers at a local employer.”

Drake said the Public Health Agency elected the state, with support from the Iowa National Guard, to do contact tracing.

“All new cases have been instructed to self-isolate,” she said. “Contact tracing is occurring and any close contacts — within 6 feet for 30 minutes or more — will be contacted with instructions. At this time we are unable to say how many of these cases were due to community spread or household contacts. COVID-19 is widespread and community spread is being seen in our region and across the state. The guidance for protection remains the same for all individuals.”

Drake said the increase in cases has also increased the number of calls to her office.

“We’ve fielded questions about why our office is not sharing more information on the recent confirmed cases. Iowa Code Chapter 22 prohibits the release of any information that could lead to the identification of any individual or facility,” she said. “Contact tracing is done with the confirmed case to identify close contacts who should all monitor their health and symptoms and self-isolate. Close contacts of the confirmed case that are at risk will be contacted.”

Drake said the risk of the COVID-19 virus remains the same regardless of where new cases are confirmed. She said precautions such as social distancing, avoiding large groups of people, wearing a mask in public, washing hands frequently, and disinfecting common surfaces are the best defense at stopping the spread of the virus.

“This is needed by everyone, regardless of a confirmed case, because we know there is community spread throughout Iowa,” she said.

Testing continues to take place routinely through local medical care providers, surrounding medical care providers, employer/strike teams, and TestIowa https://www.testiowa.com, Drake said. Local large employers are testing workers due to exposure to positive cases.

Drake said the public can help by supporting the medical community and learning the facts about COVID-19. 

Symptoms of COVID-19 include cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, loss of sense of taste/smell, and sometimes gastro-intestinal symptoms (such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting). Symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Anyone with any of these symptoms should call their health care provider. Older adults and those with underlying health conditions are at greater risk. This includes people who smoke.

Most people recover from this viral illness, Drake said. The goal is to not overwhelm hospital systems so all those in need can receive care/treatment.
​
“The virus is highly contagious,” she said. “One person can spread this illness rapidly without intent. Stay home, even if you are mildly ill.”

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Public Health offers COVID-19 guidelines

The Adams/Taylor County Public Health Agency is providing COVID-19 health guidelines following Gov. Kim Reynolds’ recent proclamation easing COVID-19 restrictions on businesses providing direct services to clients such a salons and barbershops.

“Yesterday [May13] the governor allowed more businesses to open up,” Taylor County Public Health Agency assistant administrator Crystal Drake said. “The following guidance applies to any facility that provides direct services to clients, including: salons, barber shops, massage therapy practices, medical spas, tanning salons, and tattoo parlors. Contact us, your regulating entity or professional association with questions about how to implement this guidance.”

This guidance applies to any facility that provides direct services to clients, including, but not limited to: salons, barbershops, massage therapy practices, medical spas, tanning salons, and tattoo parlors. Consult Taylor County Public Health Agency, the appropriate regulating entity or professional association with questions about how to implement this guidance. In addition to following all directives of the governor as outlined in proclamations, entities considering reopening are strongly encouraged to adhere to the following public health guidance:

1) Follow CDC guidance related to Cleaning and Disinfection for Community Facilities, including frequent cleaning and disinfecting of all high touch surfaces. Refer to the CDC’s Cleaning and Disinfection Tool to determine which areas need cleaning versus disinfection.

2) Encourage and provide supplies to allow for frequent hand washing and hand sanitizing for employees and the public.

3) Provide reminders to employees and members of the public to stay at least 6 feet away from others when in the facility and mark six foot intervals when possible.

4) Provide services on an appointment basis only.

5) Ask employees and the public to acknowledge upon entry that they do not currently have symptoms and that they have not been around anyone with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis in the last 14 days. 

• Do not allow entry to anyone who is visibly ill. 

• Do not allow entry to anyone who has been in contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the last 14 days. 

• Provide face shields for employees to use when providing services to clients. 

• Require clients to wear masks or cloth face coverings. 

6) If an employee or a member of the public becomes ill while at the facility, ask them to share that information with management, leave the facility and then call their health care provider. If it is an emergency, call 911 and let them know the emergency may be COVID-19 related.

7) Members of the public and employees should consider the use of cloth face coverings (when practical) if staying at least 6 feet away from others is not possible. 

8) Anyone who is high risk for more severe COVID-19 illness should continue to stay home.

9) Businesses should continue to follow the CDC’s guidance for businesses and ensure return to work policies for employees with positive diagnoses are consistent with CDC guidance regarding self-isolation.

10) Businesses should also reach out to the Iowa Department of Public Health or the local public health department with questions at any time.

11) Businesses should also use messaging to remind employees of steps they should be taking to protect their own health while at work. 

For more, see the OHSA Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19 at https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3990.pdf.

Submitted photo — Rotarian Stephen Gruba poses with truckload of books headed for Kenya following a book drive conducted by Corning Rotary, Villisca Lions Club, and Southwest Valley Schools.

Book drive will benefit Kenyan pupils

The combined Corning Rotary/Villisca Lions Club book drive with Southwest Valley Schools will soon help fill the school libraries of young Kenyan students.

Rotarian Dr. Stephen Gruba visits two English-speaking schools in rural Kenya twice a year. He coordinated with the Corning Rotary Club, the Villisca Lions Club, and the Rotary Club of Meru, Kenya, to help send books, DVDs, and other materials to the schools.

Under the leadership of principals Allison Thomas in Corning and Lee Haidsiak in Villisca, school students scoured their homes and brought in hundreds of DVDs and thousands of used books during the drive. Residents in both communities donated hundreds more.

When sorted and packaged for shipment, the donations filled 53 boxes weighing approximately 40 pounds apiece. These were loaded into an oceangoing container that left Kansas City on May 8 on the first leg of a three month journey to Nairobi, Kenya, where the donations will be transferred to a truck for delivery to two schools near Meru in rural central Kenya. There they will become the backbone of the schools’ libraries.

Gruba said currently the 300 pupils at each school have no books, no TV, and no internet to turn to for entertainment and their teachers are no better off. 

“The Kenyan school kids will treasure this gift from our communities for many years to come,” he said.

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Fulton named Corning Hotel manager

The Corning Hotel recently announced that ReNae Fulton has been selected as the manager of the Corning Hotel. 

“We are excited to bring ReNae on board as manager,” said Donna Hogan, president. “Her experience in customer service and environmental controls are two of her most important life skills, especially amidst the current challenges in the hospitality arena.”

Fulton is a lifelong resident of Adams County. She will step into her new role on July 1.

“I feel privileged to contribute to the Hotel’s growth and future success as the hotel manager,” Fulton said. “I look forward to providing our guests with an outstanding and stress-free stay at our hotel. I also believe my knowledge of the community and region allows me to share with our guests opportunities for them to spend more time — and money — at our local businesses, cultural centers, museums, outdoor recreational facilities and events.”

While construction on the hotel continues to move forward, no date has been established for opening. 

“The current pandemic has caused some delays in getting the materials ordered on site. The construction and management teams are in daily contact with distributors to find solutions,” Hogan said. “Meanwhile, we remain optimistic that the Hotel will open late this summer.” 

Most recently, the decorative rock façade has been completed on the front of the hotel. Inside bathroom plumbing is being completed, cabinetry is being installed, painting has started, and the reception area and breakfast room are taking shape.

Progress of the Corning Hotel can be followed on the MyCorningHotel Facebook page.

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Proclamation loosens restrictions

Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a new proclamation April 27 continuing the State Public Health Emergency Declaration until May 27.

The proclamation loosens social distancing measures in 77 Iowa counties effective May 1 and continues other restrictions until 11:50 p.m. May 15. 

In the 77 counties, the proclamation permits restaurants, fitness centers, malls, libraries, race tracks, and certain other retail establishments to reopen in a limited fashion with public health measures in place. In addition, the proclamation lifts the restriction on religious and spiritual gatherings so long as churches and other gathering hosts implement reasonable public health measures. All other regulatory relief previously provided to affected Iowans is also extended until May 27. 

“I strongly encourage all vulnerable Iowans, including those with preexisting medical conditions and those older than 65, in all counties of the state to continue to limit their activities outside of their home, including their visits to businesses and other establishments and their participation in gatherings of any size and any purpose,” Reynolds says in the proclamation.

Restaurants will be allowed to serve food and beverages on the premises but must limit the number of customers present to 50 percent operating capacity to ensure adequate spacing of customers. Seating is limited to groups no larger than six people and six feet of physical distance between each group or individual dining alone is required. Buffets, salad bars, and other self-service food or beverages remain prohibited.

“We’re anxious to welcome people back through our doors where we can,” said Jessica Dunker, president and CEO of the Iowa Restaurant Association. “However, we understand this has to be a gradual re-opening. Customer and employee safety are our top concerns and we know many operators will want to do far more than simply comply with the social distancing and other mitigation requirements from the state. They will want to take optional steps that go above-and-beyond.”

To that end the Iowa Restaurant Association is launching a program called The Iowa Hospitality Promise. This “contract” between restaurants and the public seals the special relationship the industry has with its patrons by committing to take safety and sanitation steps that exceed any mandates. It also asks the public to commit to staying home and utilizing contactless delivery options when they are not feeling well or if they have an underlying health risk.

“This new normal places higher expectations on everyone,” said Dunker. “The hospitality industry is ready to keep its promise to Iowans and we’re confident our customers will do the same.”

Participating establishments will display The Iowa Hospitality Promise, so people know they are taking extra steps to keep the public safe during this recovery period. The program will launch on April 28, after the state provides the expected additional re-open guidance from the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals and the Iowa Department of Public Health.

Churches, fitness centers, libraries, malls, race tracks, farmers markets, and other retail establishments will be allowed to reopen under similar social distancing guidelines.

Bars, theaters, social and fraternal clubs, senior centers, museums, playgrounds, campgrounds, swimming pools, salons, barbershops, medical spas, and door-to-door sales will remain closed until at least May 15.

Restrictions remain in place for 22 counties were COVID-19 cases are higher. The counties include Allamakee, Benton, Black Hawk, Bremer, Dallas, Des Moines, Dubuque, Fayette, Henry, Iowa, Jasper, Johnson, Linn, Louisa, Marshall, Muscatine, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Tama, Washington, and Woodbury.
​
As of April 26, the Iowa Department of Public Health reported 5,868 confirmed cases and 127 total deaths statewide with 38,150 residents tested and 2,021 confirmed cases recovered

SWV adapts to COVID-19

While schools may be closed across Iowa education continues at Southwest Valley.

Gov. Kim Reynolds and the Iowa Department of Education announced April 17 that all school districts and nonpublic schools will be closed for the remainder of the school year to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 but for the past month SWV students have been taking part in distance learning through the district’s Educational Enrichment Program.

SWV superintendent Chris Fenster said the district began its program March 17, just two days after Reynolds recommended Iowa schools close to stop the spread of COVID-19.

“We’re still conducting our continuous learning opportunities on the [school] website,” Fenster said. “The teachers have been doing a phenomenal job.”

Those resources are updated weekly for each SWV campus at www.southwestvalley.org. The website includes additional news and information regarding COVID-19.

Communication has long been the key to education but it’s become even more crucial during social distancing. Chromebooks, Zoom, Facebook, and other forms of information technology have made it possible for students, teachers, staff, and administrators to continue alternative education. 

While classwork continues from students’ homes, meals continue to be served through curbside pick-up and the Feed the Pack program, which provides weekend meals for eligible students, is helping meet nutritional needs. Fenster said SWV is serving about 105 to 110 students at Corning and Villisca.

“We’ll continue through May 21 then start on the summer program,” he said.

With May 21 officially the last day of school at SWV the excitement of the final few weeks has become more an uncertainty, especially for the class of 2020. Prom and graduation, the two spring fixtures of a high school senior’s year, will be memorable for different reasons for SWV’s graduating class.

“We don’t want to cancel it,” Fenster said about prom but with COVID-19 restrictions in place what form it may take is unclear for the moment.

Fenster said the school is seeking input from seniors and senior parents concerning prom, awards nights, and graduation. Seniors are asked to fill out survey with options such as a virtual graduation.

Graduation would still take place May 17 as planned but the how and where have yet to be determined. Fenster said he’ll present the seniors’ recommendations to the school board, which has already approved the graduation list, then decide how graduation will take place depending on social distancing guidelines. And if students want an actual prom, it will be held at a later date.

“Unless they loosen restrictions, we’re not going to have kids come back into school,” he said.

Fenster, who just finished his fourth year as superintendent, said this has been “the oddest year” yet for him as an administrator but he and everyone at SWV are taking it day by day.
​
“We’ll figure it,” he said. “The kids want to be in school and we want them here in school too.

CARIE MORALES/Free Press — Former Corning Breadeaux Pizza owner Steve Stueckradt, left, and new owners Som and Troy Waddell pose April 10 for a photo at the restaurant.

Breadeaux Pizza
​trades hands

Corning’s Breadeaux Pizza came under new ownership last week.

Longtime owners Steve and Eleanor Stueckradt sold the pizzeria to Troy and Som Waddell.

“We got her sold as of Friday,” Steve said. “I’m going to be around to answer questions and help them out for a while.”

The Stueckradts bought the Breadeaux in Corning in 1991 but before then they already owned Breadeaux Pizzas in Red Oak and Boonville, Mo. On top that they owned the bakery in Corning, which is now Sweet Desires.

“That was a little too much,” Steve said.

So the Stueckradts sold the Boonville Breadeaux and the bakery, where Steve started working when he was sophomore in high school. Steve said he took over the bakery in May 1964, often working 15 hours or more a day. The Stueckradts sold the bakery in 1994 and, about 10 years ago, sold the Red Oak Breadeaux and focused on Corning.

Corning is where the first Breadeaux opened in 1985. And though its location and ownership has changed since then the Waddells said they are looking forward to remaining a part of Main Street. Troy is a Hy-Vee pharmacist who owned the drug store for a few years. Som most recently worked at the Hy-Vee deli but previously was a Thailand department of agriculture food inspector, ensuring health and safety at chicken, swine, duck, and fresh seafood plants there. She also owned a veterinarian clinic in Thailand.

For the past four or five weeks, Som has been working with Steve in preparation for the transition and learning more about Breadeaux’s operations in Denison and Pella.

While Breadeaux is limited to takeout now because of COVID-19 restrictions, the Waddells said customers can expect the same service provided by the Stueckradts. Som said that although she misses her customers from when she worked at the Hy-Vee deli, she’s looking forward to meeting her new customers at Breadeaux.

“We’re excited to be a part of Main Street,” Troy said. “Hopefully we can continue what Steve has built.”

Steve, who at age 77 has been a part of Main Street for more than 56 years, said his plans for the next few weeks are to help the Waddells with the transition. After that, he and Eleanor are looking forward to something they’ve been doing the last 20 years — spending time at Lake of the Ozarks.

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Submitted photo — Engel & Maharry received the Main Street Iowa Superior Interior Rehabilitation Award. Pictured Feb. 7 are Marti Gebbie, Rod Maharry, Amber Tye, Deena Moore, and Ted Engel.

Engel & Maharry receives Main Street award
Corning’s Engel & Maharry was honored with Main Street Iowa’s Superior Interior Rehabilitation Award and Main Street Corning celebrated its 30th anniversary as a Main Street Iowa member.

“We are proud to be celebrating 30 years as a Main Street organization. We celebrated the local Main Street Award nominees on Feb. 7 at the Corning Opera House. Our nominees were Corning Medical Clinic for Terrific Total Building Rehabilitation, Engel & Maharry for Superior Interior Rehabilitation, Kids Shopping Day for Exception Special Event, and Primrose Restaurant for Outstanding Residential Project. Congratulations to all our nominees,” Main Street Corning director Marti Gebbie said. “We are excited to share Engel & Maharry was selected at the state level for Superior Interior Rehabilitation. These awards are extremely competitive and we could not be more proud of all of our businesses. We are also pleased to honor Jamie Stargell with the Leadership Award. Jamie has been on the Main Street Board for over five years and has worked her way into the demanding role as president of our Main Street Program for Corning.”

Although the Main Street Iowa awards ceremony scheduled for April 3 was canceled due COVID-19 concerns, Main Street Iowa recognized the efforts of those who work day-in and day-out to revitalize Iowa’s downtowns — the heart and soul of communities across the state. The awards honor outstanding accomplishments, activities and people making a difference in the state’s 55 designated Main Street Iowa districts. This year, 19 projects were selected from 155 competitive nominations submitted in 13 different categories.

“Main Street Iowa has stood the test of time since its introduction in 1985,” said Debi Durham, director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority. “We continue to see significant growth in the amount of business, jobs and investment in communities of all sizes due to the program, and as a result, these districts serve as inspiring examples of what’s possible for Iowa’s downtowns.”

A full list of award winners follows.

Signature Project Award
Jefferson Matters: Main Street
Recognized for Jefferson Rural Forge, a project that rose above the traditional award categories in regard to impact and significance.

Private Investment Milestones
Nine communities reached milestones in the amount of private investment in their commercial districts.   
Grundy Center: $1 million
Newton: $5 and $10 million
Ames, Le Mars and Ottumwa: $20 million
Burlington, Cedar Falls and Davenport: $100 million
Dubuque: $750 million

Main Street Iowa Anniversaries
Corning and Iowa Fall: 30 years
Central City, State Center and Story City: 20 years

In 1985, the Iowa Legislature adopted the National Main Street Center's Four Point Approach to district revitalization by establishing Main Street Iowa within the agency that is now the Iowa Economic Development Authority. Since inception, the state program and its communities have been considered examples of excellence in the national effort to revitalize historic commercial districts across the country.

Since 1986, local Main Street programs have made a significant impact on Iowa’s economy, resulting in: 

• The inception of 4,943 new businesses and a net gain of 15,170 new jobs;

• More than 12,400 building projects reported, totaling a private investment of $2.07 billion; and

• More than 3.4 million hours of human capital equating to greater than $87.5 million in time and talents according to the Independent Sector’s estimated value of a volunteer hour.

To learn more about Main Street Iowa and how all Iowa communities can access commercial revitalization assistance through the Iowa Downtown Resource Center, visit iowaeda.com/mainstreetiowa, email [email protected] or call (515) 348-6184.

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Cruising Corning

Backgrounds
​an Open 4 Business pick

Backgrounds Coffee Bar and Boutique was Main Street Corning’s Open 4 Business contest selection.

Main Street Corning received five applications demonstrating their entrepreneur initiatives who could use $28,000 to expand and grow their business idea within the Corning Main Street district.

“We held a local competition to determine which business would move forward and represent Main Street Corning,” Main Street Corning director Marti Gebbie said. “This business will complete an online application and submit a short video outlining their business idea and how it will benefit the local economic climate in their community. A 25 percent cash match is required. Businesses must have been in operation for at least one year to apply.” 

The Open 4 Business contest, launched in 2015, is an opportunity for businesses located within a state-designated Main Street district to compete for a chance to win up to $28,000 in grant funds to assist with a business development or expansion project that will help them grow their business. 

The grant funds are administered by the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Downtown Resource Center and Main Street Iowa program.

Each designated Main Street community may submit one local business applicant that will represent Corning at the state competition held July 27 in Iowa City.

“We are pleased to announce Backgrounds Coffee Bar and Boutique was selected as our applicant,” Gebbie said. “Wish them luck as they compete with 53 other Main Street districts.”

For complete details about this program, contact Gebbie at (641) 322-3243 or Robin Bostrom, Iowa Downtown Resource Center/Main Street Iowa business specialist, at (515) 348-6176 or [email protected].

DON GROVES/Free Press — David Yazell looks out the front door Subway in Corning about 10 a.m. March 24 prior to the opening of Primrose Restaurant.

Eateries adjust
​to COVID-19

With restaurants limited to carryout and delivery following Gov. Kim Reynolds’ March 17 State of Public Health Disaster Emergency declaration, local eateries are adapting to continue serving their customers during COVID-19 precautions.

Sherry Keefe, owner of Backgrounds Coffee Bar and Boutique at 708 Davis Ave. in Corning, began delivery March 23. She said delivery is available 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday while still offering carryout during regular hours of 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Backgrounds’ alley entrance due to the temporary closing of Hair Designers.

Keefe said business has been slow, which was something she expected, but she plans to continue to serve coffee and food as well as offer boutique items to help keep the economy flowing on Main Street. She’s also looking at taking website orders should social distancing become more drastic.

“We’re just trying to be mindful and be cautionary,” Keefe said.

South of Backgrounds at J.O.’s Lounge at Kay’s Kafe at 608 Davis Ave., owner Kay Olson also said business has “cut down a lot” but she too is now offering delivery.

“Our fish and chicken night Friday was the best we had all week,” she said. “People called in for that.”

Olson said all her lunch and dinner menu items are still available, as are daily specials and pie, through either carryout or delivery.

North of Kay’s Kafe and Backgrounds at Breadeaux Pizza at 716 Davis Ave., owner Steve Stueckradt said his restaurant had its last open buffet March 16, the day before Reynolds signed a public health declaration virtually closing in restaurants statewide.

Stueckradt said Breadeaux is back to carry out only and employees there are taking all necessary health precautions.

On the west side of Davis Avenue at Primrose Restaurant at 619 Davis and next door at Subway at 617 Davis, Primrose is offering carryout and delivery while Subway offers carryout.

Pickup hours at Primrose are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday for dinner, although owner Joel Mahr said hours could change. Only 10 patrons, including employees, are allowed in the restaurant at one time so one person is encourage to pay and pick up food. One payment for groups is also recommended.

“We’re taking all the safety precautions,” Mahr said. “Our staff have been trained on how to handle money and all that. People shouldn’t be afraid to come into the restaurant.”

At Three C’s Diner at 300 Ninth St., Steve and Missy Sanson said business typically picks up for them but since the health declaration daily sales have been cut in about half. Carryout and deliveries are available, Missy said, and they plan to offer discounted gift cards that can be used at a later date.

Steve said customers should know that when they do home deliveries they’re taking every precaution possible.

“We’re wearing the gloves and taking the sanitizer to be as safe as we can,” he said.

He said they’re also following all Iowa Department of Public Health recommendations and doing an extra deep cleaning after each customer visits Three C’s.

Many of the restaurant are turning more to social media to let customers know about hours of operation, daily specials, and services available.

“My daughter puts it on Facebook,” Kay Olson said about Kay’s Kafe specials.

Backgrounds, Primrose, and Three C’s also have updated information on their Facebooks pages.

While Corning restaurant owners are taking proactive steps to fight COVID-19 and what it may ultimately mean to the local economy, the effects have already been felt. Jo Bissell, owner of Sweet Desire’s Bakery at 711 Davis Ave., said last week she hoped to remain open, especially because the bakery is carryout, but expressed concern about her employees and customers. Over the weekend, Bissell decided it would be safer to close down until further notice.

“It’s a tough call but we certainly don’t want to make people sick,” she said. “It’s added a lot of extra stress.”

Missy Sanson said she’s been praying every day “that we can get through this and keep the doors open.”

“It’s rough right now, real rough,” she said.

Three C’s typically has a staff of 16 but Missy said they’re now down to four.

“I feel bad for them but I told them yesterday to go ahead and apply for unemployment,” she said.

Stueckradt fears that if the COVID-19 cases continue to increase it’s only a matter of time before Reynolds orders restaurants completely closed. That’s a concern also shared by Kay Olson, who said she’s grateful for the support of her customers.
​
“Just keep calling in those orders,” she said. “I opened in 1980 and I would hate to think something like this could take out our business.”

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Adams County
​responds to COVID-19

Southwest Valley schools have been closed until further notice and access to the Adams County Courthouse has been limited following the spread of COVID-19 in Iowa.

The SWV website, www.southwestvalley.org, includes information about the campus closings and will be updated as needed.

“Plans will continue to evolve as more information is known,” the website says. “The administration of Southwest Valley will continue to meet weekly to reevaluate plans and protocols. It is also important to stay home at this time and not congregate at school playgrounds, friends’ homes, or other common public places.”

Although SWV’s Early Childhood Education Center and the Wellness Center in Villisca have been closed for now and all spring activities have been suspended, hot lunches are still available to SWV students 18 years old and younger. To order a hot lunch, text (641) 418-0952 or email [email protected] for  curbside pickup from 11 a.m. to noon at the main entrance of Corning Elementary School or Southwest Valley Middle School. Orders must be made by 8 a.m.

The school closing came following Gov. Kim Reynolds’ March 15 recommendation that Iowa schools close for four weeks.

“Based on new information today from the Iowa Department of Public Health, now is the time to move to the next level of response,” Reynolds said. “I am now recommending that all Iowa schools close for a period of four weeks to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.”

On March 17, the Adams County Board of Supervisors announced access to the Adams County Courthouse would be limited “for the safety and concern of our employees due to COVID-19.”

Only the southwest door of the courthouse is open and all people entering the building will need to check in at the door with courthouse staff who will log the visitors’ names and addresses and purpose of business.

“You will be directed to the office that you are needed and then instructed to return and log out,” a press release from the supervisors’ says. “This procedure is being implemented to track exposure should that become an issue. If you are not feeling well or possibly at risk, please refrain from visiting the courthouse.”

County offices will provide assistance by phone or email to conduct business or to answer any questions regarding the situation. Supervisors are also recommending calling or emailing before visiting the courthouse or the engineer/secondary roads office. The county website, www.adamscountyia.com, and the county Facebook page will include announcements and other changes as needed.

Those needing to visit the Sheriff’s Office should use the east doors there or call (641) 322-4444.
Property taxes can be paid online at www.iowatreasurers.org or by mail. Taxes may also be dropped off in the mailbox on the west side of the courthouse and receipt will be mailed. Those needing to renew their driver’s license are asked to wait to do so. For more information, call the treasurer’s office at (641) 322-3210.

Other county phone numbers are the assessor’s office, (641) 322-4312; auditor’s office, (641) 322-3340; recorder’s office, (641) 322-3744; attorney’s office, (641) 322-4008; conservation office, (641) 322-4793; engineer/secondary roads, (641) 322-3910; Veterans Affairs, (641) 322-4455; Emergency Management, (641) 322-3262; and clerk of court, (641) 322-4711.

As of March 17, the Iowa Department of Public Health reported 23 cases of COVID-19 in the state with Johnson County the highest with 15 cases. Allamkee and Dallas County are reporting two cases each while Carroll, Harrison, Polk, and Pottawattamie are reporting one each. Another 199 Iowa residents were being monitored.

SWV to present
​‘Bye Bye Birdie’

The Southwest Valley Music Department will present the Tony Award-winning musical “Bye Bye Birdie” March 14-15 in the SWV High School auditorium.

Show times are 7 p.m. March 14 and 2 p.m. March 15. Tickets are $7 for adults and $6 for students and are available for purchase at the door.

“Bye Bye Birdie” is the story of an early 1960s heartthrob singer Conrad Birdie (Gabe Fuller) as he is drafted into the Army and is going to give one lucky fan his “one last kiss” before he goes. The adventure takes Conrad, his manager Albert Peterson (Jacob Roberts), and Albert’s secretary (Anna Inman) to Sweet Apple, Ohio, where they meet the MacAfee family (Kade Hutchings, Lyric Cory, Kendi Graham, and Avery Morgan) and chaos ensues. 

“We hope our Timberwolf communities will come out and support these talented actors and actresses, and find out if Conrad gets his ‘one last kiss,’” SWV vocal music teacher Mindy Docker said.
 
SWV Music Boosters will be once again hosting a dessert bar during the intermission of both shows for a freewill offering. 

“Proceeds from the dessert bar will go towards replenishing our funds after the purchases of our new timpani set and sound system,” Docker said.

SWV Schools
​plan book drive

Southwest Valley Schools are conducting a book and DVD drive to help fill the school libraries of young Kenyan students.

The Rotary Club of Corning and the Rotary Club of Meru, Kenya, are establishing libraries at two English-speaking schools in rural central Kenya visited twice each year by Dr. Stephen Gruba. The Villisca Lions Club is assisting with the drive as well. 

Both schools have 200-250 students, most of whom are orphans because of HIV taking their parents or from such poor families that they would not get any education if the school did not take them in, Gruba said. They live in dormitories on the school grounds. Although they have electricity, they do not have TV, iPads, computers, etc. One school has a digital movie projector donated by a benefactor and shows DVD movies on the wall once a week. The schoolteachers also live on the grounds and have no better entertainment. 

“A library would be a wonderful gift of entertainment and learning for both the children and the adults,” Corning Elementary School principal Allison Thomas said. “Any book or DVD in the English language, at any grade level, new or gently used, will be appreciated.”

All four Southwest Valley Schools will be collecting the items with the drive ending on March 19. Community patrons who wish to donate items may drop books at Corning Elementary or Southwest Valley High School. All collected books and used DVDs will be shipped to Kenya. 

“This is not a fundraiser, just a book and DVD gathering effort,” Thomas said.

For more information about the book drive, contact Thomas at Corning Elementary or Anthony Donahoo at SWV High School.

Myers places
fourth at state

Southwest Valley’s Tallen Myers returned home from the Iowa High School Athletic Association’s Class 1A 2020 State Wrestling Tournament Feb. 20-22 a little worse for wear but he also came home with a fourth place medal.

“Tallen came in to the tournament as most first timers do — a little overwhelmed and a lot nervous,” head coach Cody Konecne said. “His first match was against a kid that we have never seen before and didn’t have much knowledge about. He went out aggressive but got out of position and got caught in a fireman’s carry and pinned.”

That match ended by fall to West Hancock’s Tanner Hagen in 0:42 but Myers came back to win an 8-3 decision over South Central Calhoun’s Brian King.

“After that [first] match, his nerves seemed to calm almost completely and went out and really mowed guys down,” Konecne said. “He won his next match 8-3.”

Myers continued with a win over Interstate 35’s Sam Vonnahme by fall in 2:34 and defeated Northwood-Kensett’s Gideon Rollens in an 11-6 decision and Eagle Grove’s Joel Mendoza in a 7-3.

“The match that got him into the placing rounds, he pinned his kid in the second period. From there he went on to beat the No. 1 ranked kid coming into the tournament 11-6. His last match he beat the No. 1 seeded, No. 2 ranked kid 7-3,” Konecne said. “It was unfortunate that during that match those two collided, which resulted in concussion-like symptoms for both wrestlers. Tallen even had to take two staples for his head was split open by the contact. Neither one of the two would end up wrestling their final placing match. Tallen would have wrestled the same kid [Tanner Hagen] that beat him in the first round.”

While Myers never got the chance to again face Hagen, who brought home the third place medal, Konecne has little doubt how the rematch would have ended.

“The coaching staff couldn’t have been more proud of the way he performed at state. He overcame a loss in the first round and came back, winning four matches in a row to give himself a chance to place third,” Konecne said. “He had to face two elimination matches in a row just to make the podium. That is all heart and will. And the way he was wrestling at the time, there was no doubt in our minds that he wouldn’t have won that match.”

Myers qualifies for state

Southwest Valley High School wrestler Tallen Myers will compete Feb. 20-22 in the Iowa High School Athletic Association’s 2020 Sate Wrestling Tournament at Wells Fargo Arena Des Moines.

Myers qualified for the state tournament after placing second at 220 pounds Feb. 15 in the IHSAA 1A District Tournament at Underwood. SWV’s Kaden Jacobs just missed qualifying for state at 182 pounds.

Head coach Cody Konecne said the district tournament was filled with “gut-wrenching anxiety.”

“My heart probably stopped six times today. I got to celebrate a state qualifier, and empathize a crushing defeated of a third place district placer, just like last year,” he said. “The bright side of this year’s experience — we have quite the foundation to build around. And we will build our foundation on effort and principles set forth from our leaders. And we will achieve so many great things next year because of it.”

Myers defeated Underwood’s Chris Gardner with a 4-2 decision in the first round of the district tournament then lost by fall in 2:49 to Audubon’s Luke Mosinski, finally claiming another win over Gardner for second place.

Jacobs defeated Treynor’s Logan Young by fall in 2:58, lost a 10-6 decision to Coon Rapids-Bayard‘s Aaron McAlister, then lost by fall in 2:22 to Riverside’s Kaiden Hendricks.

Konecne said the district tournament proved to be a landmark for Southwest Valley wrestling history.

“I have been a part of this school district my whole life. In that time, we have been rich in wrestling history. Tallen Myers has not. He is from Villisca. Born and raised. From a town in which wrestling was just something other schools did. And I know Villisca and Corning are collectively Southwest Valley but up until now very state place winner and qualifier has come up from Corning. Until now Villisca kids just participated in wrestling but never made the big state,” he said. “Until now it was just easier to submit yourself to basketball than legitimately give yourself an opportunity to really make a name for yourself. And in this year, we almost had two kids from Villisca to prove that theory wrong.

“This whole grade sharing opportunity that Southwest Valley has provided these communities allows anyone to be whatever they want to be, succeed at any level they want to succeed, be friends with people they may have never met otherwise,” Konecne said. “When I say that this day is a great day to be a Timberwolf, I mean it in the most sincere way. Because when communities can work together as one in sports and achieve great things, nothing can stop us from creating a truly great place to call home.”

Main Street Award nominees named

The Main Street Corning Program celebrated its 30-year anniversary, recognized local volunteers, and announced the Main Street Iowa Award nominees Feb. 7 at a special event at the Corning Opera House.

The nominees are Primrose Restaurant for the Outstanding Residential Project Award, Corning Medical Clinic for the Terrific Total Rehabilitation Award, Engel and Maharry for the Superior Interior Award, Kids Shopping Day for the Remarkable Retail Promotion Award, and Main Street Corning President Jamie Stargell for the Leadership Award. Anne Greenwalt was also presented the Wall of Fame Award for spearheading Market Down Davis and many other leadership roles she tackled in 2019.

Following Stargell’s welcome to the event, Burton Heaton spoke about how Main Street Corning came into existence 30 years ago. 

Main Street Corning director Marti Gebbie announced the award nominees beginning with Kids Shopping Day, an event tailored toward children aged kindergarten through fifth grade to help them with Christmas shopping. She said the Main Street Promotion Committee extended the hours of the event and partnered with Corning Opera House, which donated space for event activities. Children were given Chamber Bucks to spend in downtown Corning for Kids Shopping Day, which was also Small Business Saturday. With the extended hours, the event included lunch and a movie.

Gebbie also spoke about the three businesses nominated. Corning Medical Clinic was selected for the Terrific Total Building Rehabilitation thanks to the work done by Greater Regional after purchasing the building at 700 Davis Ave. in 2018. In the process of renovating the back wall, the brick in the back had fallen in years earlier and almost resulted in the entire building collapsing. Greater Regional not only restored the building’s exterior it also updated the interior, exposing the original brick.

Primrose Restaurant, last years’ recipient of the Superior Interior Rehabilitation Award and previous Main Street Iowa Challenge Grant winner, was selected for the Outstanding Residential Project Award for renovating the second story of the restaurant. The renovation includes two apartments, one overlooking Davis Avenue and the other overlooking Benton Avenue.

Engel and Maharry Law Offices was selected for the Superior Interior Rehabilitation Award for the remodeling of its new office at 713 Davis Ave. Ted Engel and Rod Maharry purchased the building in 2018 and began remodeling in 2019. Improvements include a new front window, lighting and fans, wiring, and a sound buffer system while preserving much of the building’s historical features. The wood floors and ceiling were cleaned and polished, the original back doors were stripped down and mounted onto a rolling system for the conference room, and an old bookcase with a sliding library ladder are now the backdrop to the front reception area. 

“We are very excited to see how our group of nominees do at the Main Street Iowa Awards, as so many great things happened in 2019,” Gebbie said. “Congratulations to all for being nominated for a Main Street Iowa Award.”

Marilea Mullen spoke about Main Street Corning’s success and the amount of volunteer hours involved in the program. She said more than 10,000 hours of volunteer time was recorded in 2019. She said the national value of a volunteer is $25.43, which amounts to a $254,300 investment through volunteers back into the Main Street Corning district.

Stargell said with Main Street Iowa’s approval, Main Street Corning was able to extend its district to include several existing businesses such as Miltner Insurance, Pearson Family Funeral Homes, and Wolf Wash. In addition to those added to the district, Auriginal Designs, Phillips Stafford Insurance Group, Corning Medical Clinic, and JD Services brought in new businesses as well. She said a total of $1.9 million was invested in the district last year through new buildings or improvements. She said Main Street Corning also awarded five façade grants totaling $3,865 in 2019 thanks to the contribution commitment from local banks.

“Main Street Corning has accomplished a huge milestone of nearly $14 million being invested back into our Main Street community,” Stargell said.

Another Main Street Corning district improvement is the work being done on the Widener building at 729 Davis Ave. The City of Corning acquired the building and is stabilizing it thanks in part to a $75,000 Main Street Iowa Challenge Grant, a $25,000 Adams Community Foundation Grant, and a $4,000 Operation Round-up Grant from REC.

Stargell said Andrew and Misty Johnson, owners of RJ’s Plumbing-Rolling Thrones, came in second runner up for the Open 4 Business grant earning $13,000 for their business last year. Carver’s Ridge won first place in 2018 with a grant award of $28,000. She said the 2020 Open 4 Business contest local applications are due by March 2. Applications are available online at adamscountyiowa.com, on the Main Street Corning Facebook page, or by calling Gebbie at (641) 322-3243.

“Main Street Corning is ever changing, and we are just beginning to settle into the year,” Stargell said. “We have a lot of goals to accomplish and future plans to develop. I am looking forward to cultivating better relationships with volunteers and community organizations.”

Warrants lead to arrests,
​recovery of stolen property

Search warrants served Jan. 31 in Creston resulted in four arrests and the recovery of stolen property taken in recent thefts in Creston and the surrounding area.

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office along with the Creston Police Department, deputies from Union, Ringgold, Adair, and Taylor counties, the Afton Police Department and the Department of Narcotics Enforcement served the search warrants at 612 W. Mills in Creston, according to a Creston Police Department press release.

Adam Cross, Jennifer Beard, Patrick Farlow, and Natalie Eslinger face multiple felony charges following their arrest.

Cross is charged with two counts of theft, criminal mischief, possession of burglar tools, aggravated burglary third degree, possession of controlled substance third/subsequent, dominion or control of a firearm by a felon, attempted burglary third degree, and gathering where controlled substance used. Cross was served a Union County warrant for interference with official acts and an Adams County warrant for probation violation, for which he is being held on no bond.

Beard is charged with possession of a controlled substance first offense, theft second degree, and gathering where controlled substances used. Beard was served a Union County warrant for violating a no contact order and theft. She was being held without bond until seeing the magistrate.
Farlow is charged with possession of a controlled substance second offense, gathering where controlled substance used, and burglary third degree. Farlow was served three Union County warrants — two probation violations following original charges of possession of a controlled substance and carrying weapons and a controlled substance violation. He is being held on no bond.

Eslinger was served a Polk County warrant for probation violation on an original charge of operating a vehicle without owner’s consent. She is being held on no bond.

Among the items recovered are five firearms, drug paraphernalia, and methamphetamine as well as a large amount of stolen property including one vehicle.

The Creston Police Department will notify victims of recent thefts and ask them to identify any possible missing property after the seized evidence has been logged and tagged.

Chamber honors community leaders

This year’s Adams Community Chamber awards included 36 nominees.

The Chamber announced the award winners Jan. 23 at its annual banquet at the Corning Community Center with just over 100 in attendance. This year’s theme was Through the Years.

Receiving awards were:

Best Agriculturist — Jason and Jamie McManis of Edge Ag Solutions. The full-time farm couple and parents of five children spearheaded Edge Ag Solutions. After repurposing a vacant building for a multi-faceted agricultural business that has added employment, they now offer ag chemicals, fertilizers, custom application, crop insurance, seed, and soil sampling. They currently employ three full-time employees and six part-time or additional seasonal employees. Jason and Jamie McManis also volunteer on various boards and are helping the county grow by providing a hands-on ag equipment simulator to local students that will provide training and internship opportunities.

Entrepreneur of the Year — Caitlyn Houck, owner of The Rustic Charm. Houck has taken her hobby of handmade home décor items and has grown it into a business with one full-time and two part-time employees. She also organizes the Handmade Market, a daylong event that attracts many customers to the community, and offers classes to create handcrafted items. She also recently added a mobile business to take her creations on the road and raise awareness of Adams County outside of the community.

Organization/Business of the Year — Sherry Keefe, owner of Backgrounds Coffee Bar and Boutique. Opened just over two years ago behind Hair Designers, Backgrounds Coffee Bar and Boutique offers much more than just coffee and tea. Backgrounds also offers breakfast and lunch items as well as a wide variety of boutique items, many of which are locally created. Keefe partners with other businesses to bring more shoppers into the community and spotlights a small local business each month. One of Keefe’s nominations said, “I nominate her because she has worked so hard over the past three years to make her dream of opening up a coffee shop come true. Backgrounds has become the best place to meet up and bring people together.”

John McMahon Volunteer of the Year — Denny Villhauer. Villhauer has given time to multiple organizations for the betterment of Corning and Adams County including Adams Community Economic Development Board, Chamber Board, Main Street Board, and Rotary Club. He volunteers to help plan and set up a variety of community events and support youth programs.

The Joe Cook Lifetime Support Award — Burton Heaton. Heaton has provided hours of support to a multitude of endeavors in the community. He has been involved with Main Street Board and Design Committee for more than 21 years. He serves on the Adams County Economic Development Board. He is currently the Rotary Club president and has been a strong supporter/volunteer of the Adams County Speedway for many years. Heaton has had various roles in the Chamber, is a member of the Adams Community Ambassadors, and takes part in sharing with legislators and business recognition in the community. He has served as treasurer for The House of History for the past 17 years and supports student athletes by working the scoreboard at home volleyball and basketball games as well as volunteering as a timer at home track meets. Heaton also works to beautify the community and oversees the can redemption site at Hy-Vee for Main Street.

Prior to the award presentations, the Chamber presented its 2020 officers and board of directors. Officers are Wendi Boswell, president; Devin Hunter, vice president; Marilea Mullen, secretary; and Julia Paul, treasurer.

Chamber director Marti Gebbie highlighted the Chamber’s 2019 accomplishments. She said more than $22,000 in Chamber Bucks were issued, a 45 percent increase. The Chamber has 117 business memberships and 31 individual memberships, a 22 percent increase. The Chamber Ambassadors gave 12 business salutes in 2019.

Gebbie said the 60th Annual Flight Breakfast had 12 fly-ins and served more than 400 people, the Chamber Golf Tournament had 19 teams and 11 hole sponsors, and First Friday BBQ attendance averaged more than 220. 
​
Adams Community Foundation chair Nancy Turner presented Foundation grant awards to Prescott Fire and Rescue, $18,294.64 for rapid extraction equipment; Adams County Fair and Racing Association, $10,000 for bleacher renovation; City of Corning, $25,000 for Widener building stabilization, and $3,776 for a kitchen oven and dishwasher at the Community Center; Adams Community Economic Development Corporation, $2,500 for lighting and flooring; and Corning Public Library, $2,300 for a handicapped door. Turner said $61,870.64 was awarded, bringing the total of $1.4 million awarded since 1988.​

Chamber awards
​nominees announced

The Adams Community Chamber of Commerce Board announced nominees for the Chamber Awards at the Lauvstad Center on Jan. 17 during Chamber Coffee. 

Those nominated were individuals, businesses, and organizations who had an impact on the community in 2019. Winners will be named Jan. 23 at the Annual Chamber Awards Banquet at the Corning Community Center. Due to inclement weather, several nominees were unable to attend and are not pictured.

The nominees are:

Entrepreneur of the Year — Caitlyn Houck (The Rustic Charm), Sherry Keefe (Backgrounds Coffee Bar and Boutique), Jason and Jamie McManis (Edge Ag Solutions), Andrew and Misty Johnson (RJs Plumbing and Heating – Rolling Thrones), Nick and Allie Wetzel (Wolf Wash), and Darrell and Diane Hein (Vogel and Thomas).

Best Agriculturalist — Duane and Evelyn Dougherty (Dougherty Farms), Jason and Jamie McManis (Edge Ag Solutions), Rod Fleharty (Adams Community Rural Development Committee).

Business /Organization of the Year — Cathay Pringnitz (Imagine the Possibilities), Amy Stalcup (Bella Vita), Caitlyn Houck (The Rustic Charm), Southern Hills Veterinary Services and City of Corning, Joel Mahr and Jill Fulton (Primrose Restaurant), Holly Steeve (Matura Outreach), De Heaton (Corning Opera House), Rick and Jo Bissell (Sweet Desires Bakery), Deb Loudon (Lakeside Supplies), Sherry Keefe (Backgrounds Coffee Bar and Boutique), Jeff Fulton and Chuck Fast (Nishna Valley Builders), Market Down Davis (Main Street Corning), Adams County Conservation Board, and Corning Rotary Club.

John McMahon Volunteer of the Year — Jamie Stargell, Judy Beckett, Denny Villhauer, and Cliff Mann.
Joe Cook Lifetime Support Award — Burton Heaton, Colleen Bickford, Marilea Mullen, Betsy Akin, Beth Waddle, Donnie Willett, and Tim Ennis.

Laborshed study
​under way

The Adams Community Economic Development Corporation is partnering with Iowa Workforce Development and Iowa Economic Development Authority to complete a laborshed employment study for the Adams community area. 

This study will geographically define which communities contribute to local workforce, regardless of political boundaries. This defined area is called a laborshed area and is based upon commuting patterns.

The purpose of this laborshed study is to measure the availability and characteristics of area workers. Laborshed studies are useful tools for economic development teams and existing or prospective employers to understand the local labor market, make informed expansion and site selection decisions, and maintain/recruit a high-quality workforce.

For the success of this study, we will be sending letters to employers in Adams County asking that they provide aggregate counts of their employees’ residential ZIP codes. This will allow ADECDC to define a commuting pattern for Corning and determine what the scope and scale of the laborshed area is and better understand where Adams County’s workforce resides. 

A confidential survey of residents will also be conducted to collect workforce characteristic information specific to the area. Residents will receive a letter directing them how to take the survey online and/or they will receive a telephone call to take the survey. The survey call originates out of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, therefore, the incoming number will have the 319 area code. It is possible that Adams County residents may receive a text message from an 888 number as well, alerting residents to expect a call about the survey. Survey questions will cover topics such as employment status, current and desired wages, current and desired benefits, education level, and type of occupation among other things. However, Iowa Workforce Development will not ask survey takers identifiable information such as name, Social Security number, or date of birth.

Every year Iowa Workforce Development conducts laborshed studies across the state. The results of each analysis are publicly available online at www.iowalmi.gov/laborshed. For more information about the laborshed project, contact Katie Lippold at (515) 281-3035 or Beth Waddle at (641) 322-5229.

SWV seeks new principal

Southwest Valley School District is seeking a new principal following the resignation of SWV Middle School principal Lora Top.

“Over the holiday break, Southwest Valley has had to make a change at the middle school principal position.  Lora Top submitted her resignation on Dec. 19 and the Villisca School board voted 5-0 to accept the resignation,” SWV superintendent Chris Fenster said. “We have conducted a search and have selected Lee Haidsek as the interim middle School principal for the remainder of the school year. Lee previously served as principal at Villisca before retiring.”

The Villisca School Board approved Haidsek as interim principal at the board’s Jan. 2 meeting.

“We are excited that Lee has stepped forward to help us finish our school year out strong,” Fenster said.

Fenster said the district has already begun advertising for a permanent middle school principal. Candidates will be reviewed the week of Jan. 27-31 and interviews will begin the first week in February.

“On behalf of the Villisca School Board and the Corning School Board we would like to thank Lora for her service with the district and wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors,” Fenster said.

Swearingen and Kelli
to perform Jan. 10

Nashville duo Swearingen and Kelli will present their Fire and Rain nostalgic acoustic concert of the iconic folk hits of the 1970s at 7 p.m. Jan. 10 at the Corning Opera House Cultural Center.

The show features the authentic and harmonic vocals of the singer-songwriting duo, highlighting some of the greatest songs from that era. This show of classics will include music from Cat Stevens, Gordon Lightfoot, Jim Croce, Carole King, James Taylor, Simon and Garfunkel, Fleetwood Mac, Kris Kristofferson and more.

“I mean, it’s that harmony. When you hear a duo that is really singing together — and by that I mean listening as much as anything else — it’s a special and unique sound.” — Red Line Roots, 2019

Their third studio album, Cold-Hearted Truth, bridges the gap between modern-day Americana, the classic sounds of '70s singer-songwriters, and country rebels. The album delivers stories about endurance, addictions, old stomping grounds, false starts and getting things right the second time around. The album revels in simpler times of AJ Swearingen’s family’s humble beginning in the Appalachian coal mines and Jayne Kelli’s family history in the small town of Lapeer, Mich.

Discounted tickets can be purchased as part of the winter/spring package that includes two or three other shows or individually. Adult tickets are $30 and students are $10, unless purchased more than 24 hours in advance, saving $5 per ticket. Purchases can be made online at www.CorningOperaHouse.com, afternoons at the opera house office, at the State Bank of Brooks in Corning, or by calling the office at (641) 418-8037. Follow the Corning Opera House on Instagram (cohcc) and on Facebook for the latest details and upcoming events.

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CHRISTY GROVES/Free Press — Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand speaks Dec. 17 during a town hall meeting at Corning City Hall.

Sand targets
financial crime
Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand met Dec. 17 with Adams County residents to discuss new policies he will be implementing Jan. 1 during a town hall meeting at Corning City Hall.

Sand visited Corning to round out his 99-county tour for 2019.

Sand, who  was named an assistant attorney general in 2010 by attorney general Tom J. Miller, has created a new position in the state auditor’s office named auditor/investigator. Sand said the goal of this new position is to create stronger prosecution of financial crime.

Sand said he is also advocating moving some state auditor employees to rural communities. He said the change would help bring more revenue and better job opportunities to rural communities. He said some state employees would welcome the opportunity to live in rural communities rather than Des Moines. 

Sand said adding or losing a state job doesn’t have a great affect as it would on the economy of a rural community. He said employees from his office would be given the opportunity to relocate to rural communities if they desired.

Sand has pledge to conduct a 99-county tour of the state each year he is in office.

“I’m proud of the work our office has done this year, but I didn’t just tell Iowans about that,” he said. “I also let them poke their state auditor with a stick to see what comes out. All our events have been open to the public and I’ve answered questions at every stop. It’s been refreshing to have concerned citizens, local elected officials, and folks from the legislature, from both parties, at my stops across the state.

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Christmas services planned

Adams County churches will offer several Christmas and Christmas Eve services and programs.

Living for Christ Outreach will hold a Christmas program at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec.  22, at 1007 Nodaway St. in Corning.

Brooks-Carbon-Carl Parish will hold a community candlelight service at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22, at Carbon Community Hall. A Christmas service will be held at 10 a.m. Christmas Day, Dec. 25, at Brooks United Methodist Church.

Corning United Methodist will hold a Christmas Eve service at 5 p.m. Dec. 24 at 901 Nodaway St. Regular services will be held Dec. 22 and Dec. 29 with Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m.

St. Patrick Parishes will hold Christmas at 4 p.m. Dec. 24 at 504 Grove Ave. in Corning, at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 24 at 600 W. Michigan in Lenox, and at 10 a.m. Dec. 25 in Corning.

Redeemer Lutheran Church will hold a Christmas Eve candlelight service at 7 p.m. Dec. 24 at 800 17th St. in Corning.

Corning First Presbyterian Church will hold a Christmas Eve service at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 24 at 907 Grove Ave.

Prescott United Church Disciples of Christ will hold a candlelight and communion worship service at 11 p.m. Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, at 405 Sixth Ave.

Christmas Dinner
​biggest yet

More than 140 people shared a meal, music, and fellowship Dec. 6 at the Ninth Annual Community Christmas Dinner sponsored by Living for Christ Outreach. 

“This was our biggest turn out of our community,” Living for Christ Outreach Pastor Tim Blaisure said. “Thank you to the Adams County community for coming and making this an awesome time together.”

Blaisure said The Hunter Family — Brandon, Sheri, Jaron, Jediah, Asher, and Rayna Hunter — “really connected with everyone” with their music. 

“We had Three C's Restaurant who catered for us and did an awesome job,” he said.

“Thanks to everyone who donated their time, money, prayers, and gifts for everyone who stayed to the end,” Blaisure said.

Submitted photo — The Seventh Annual Norvell Houck Remembrance Meal and Fundraiser will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Corning Community Center.

Houck Remembrance Meal to take place Dec. 7

Christmas season is under way, signaling the renewal of seasonal traditions such as youth Christmas programs and community concerts. It is also marks the Seventh Annual Norvell Houck Remembrance Meal and Fundraiser, which will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Corning Community Center. 

The fundraiser is sponsored by Norvell’s People in Need coffee group. 

“It is an opportunity to have a meal before you go home from an afternoon of shopping,” according to co-chair Tony Mullen. 

A freewill donation will be taken for a menu of scrambled eggs, French toast, and sausage gravy and biscuits. 

Co-chair Jim Amdor said an auction for pies and a variety of other items will be held beginning at 6 p.m. 

“There will be more than 25 pies available,” Amdor said.

The goal is “to raise funds for charitable activities and organizations,” Mullen said. He said funds raised at the event have been used in the Adams County Community and beyond.

“Families and individuals have been assisted in a large area including Shenandoah, Creston, Lenox, Villisca, Bedford, and more,” Amdor said.

“We have assisted many cancer patients and their families, as well as MATURA, the past five years,” Mullen said.

James and Caitlyn Houck are donating a beef for the auction. The beef will be sold in quarters and the processing has been paid.

“We want to make this available to families in need at an affordable price,” the Houcks said. 

“This will be a great way to end a day of Christmas shopping,” the co-chairs said. “It will be an opportunity to visit with friends in the community, have a great meal and take a pie home and all the time you know you will be helping our coffee group help People in Need throughout the area.”

Those not able to attend can make donations at the Bank of Brooks, 701 Benton Ave., Corning, IA 50841, payable to Norvell’s People in Need. For more information, contact Jim Amdor at (712) 621-0879 or Tony Mullen at (712) 621-1483

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Accident claims
​semi driver’s life

A 26-year-old Hamlin woman died and two others were injured Nov. 23 in a two vehicle accident west of Corning on Highway 34 and Gingko Avenue, according to an Iowa State Patrol crash report.

Karmen Grabill died at the scene of the accident after she failed to stop the 2010 Freightliner semi she was driving north on Ginkgo Avenue and was struck by a westbound 2012 Chevrolet Traverse on Highway 34 driven by Wannita Olson, 54, of Corning at about 10:47 a.m., the report says. The semi jackknifed and came to rest in the west ditch of Gingko Avenue and the Traverse came to rest north of the intersection on Gingko.

Olson was taken to CHI Health Mercy Corning while her 5-year-old passenger was flown by LifeNet to Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines.

Both Olson and her passenger were wearing seatbelts at the time of the accident.

Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Kevin Johnson, Corning Fire Department, and Adams County Rescue responded to the accident.

County passes
​post-election audit

Adams County conducted its post-election audit Thursday, Nov. 14, under a law designed to monitor and protect election processes.

Adams County Auditor Rebecca Bissell said the audit was a perfect match to the result recorded.
Iowa law requires that after each election, the Secretary of State will choose, at random, one precinct in each Iowa county to be audited. County auditors must then supervise a hand count of the ballots from that precinct and compare the results to the voting machine count from election night.

In Adams County, the Secretary of State chose the Absentee Precinct with the first ballot position being audited, which in this case was the mayor for the City of Corning. Seventy-four votes were cast in the Absentee Precinct of which 31 ballots contained that race. Both the machine count and the hand count Nov. 14 showed the following breakdown: Leonard – 30 votes, Write-In – 1, Undervotes — 0, Overvotes — 0, for a total of 31 votes.

Bissell said that the law is in response to concerns about election security. 

“We test the machines multiple times before the election and being able to rely on paper ballots gives us confidence in the integrity of our voting system,” Bissell said. “This post-election audit with a hand count shows that our machines are accurately counting the ballots.”

Two precinct election officials, representing the two major political parties, conducted the count under the supervision of Bissell and staff. As required in the law, the auditor’s office notified the county chairs of both of the two major political parties. Questions about the post-election audit and other election matters may be directed to the auditor’s office at (641) 322-3340 or [email protected].

Submitted photo — Corning Councilwoman Judy Beckett, left, and Mayor Jan Leonard pose for a photo after being awarded a $75,000 grant for the City of Corning’s Stabilization Project on the Widener building at 729 Davis in downtown Corning.

Corning receives $75,000 Main Street grant

The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) awarded Main Street Corning a $75,000 grant for the City of Corning’s Stabilization Project on the Widener building at 729 Davis in downtown Corning.

Mayor Jan Leonard, councilwoman Judy Beckett, Main Street Corning representative, and Beth Waddle, executive director of the Adams Community Economic Development Corporation, were on hand to accept the award Nov. 7 at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. 

The grant requires matching funds from the City of Corning. The project is scheduled to start in the new year. 

“The Main Street Iowa Challenge grants have been instrumental in revitalizing Iowa’s historic main streets,” said IEDA and Iowa Finance Authority director Debi Durham, who was on hand along with Main Street Iowa director Michael Wagler to present the award. “Reinvesting in our traditional commercial districts is good business. It is good for our economy and good for our state. These projects will bring new businesses and new residents to our downtown districts.”

Fourteen Main Street communities were awarded grants that ranged from $25,000 to $75,000 and totaled $1 million. The estimated total project cost of these 14 projects is over $3.2 million. 

“This investment will have a significant economic impact within each district,” Wagler said.

Since the Challenge Grants were awarded in 2002, approximately $10.6 million in state and federal funds have leveraged more than $59 million in private investment. Over the life of the program, 179 projects in 54 Main Street Iowa commercial districts received funding. Other projects over the years in the Main Street Corning District have been Primrose Restaurant and the Corning Opera House.

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Veterans Day
events scheduled

A variety of Veterans Day events are planned for the Adams Community.
​
Southwest Valley will host two Veterans Day assemblies, one at the Southwest Valley High School Activity Center in Corning and the other at Southwest Valley Middle School gymnasium in Villisca, at 10 a.m. Nov. 8.

The high school assembly will include the presentation of Quilts of Valor to veterans.

Due to teacher in-service, there will be no school Nov. 11, Veterans Day.

A Veterans Day program featuring the Synergy Winds of the 34th  Army Band of the Iowa Army National Guard and the Corning Center for the Fina Arts art installation “These Fallen Friends,” crocheted poppies honoring the 3,576 Iowans who died serving in the armed forces during World War I, will take place Nov. 10 at the Corning Opera House and at Central Park in Corning.

The Center for the Fine Arts will also feature Michael Wilson’s “One Man One War, One Hundred Years” following the Veterans Day program with light refreshments.

Synergy Winds woodwind quintet is stationed in Fairfield, Iowa, and is the only military band in the state of Iowa. The mission of the 34th Army Band is to provide music throughout the spectrum of military operations, instill in soldiers the will to fight and win, and foster the support of citizens and promote national interests at home and abroad. The 34th Army Band is made up of citizen soldiers whose civilian occupations include teachers, salesmen, corporate management, engineers, and students.

The unit's numerous ensembles have extensively toured the state of Iowa performing at official military ceremonies, sporting events, parades, concerts, festivals, school assemblies, patriotic concerts, and many other events. The current focus of the 34th  Army Band has been developing smaller musical performance teams (MPTs) to expand their ability to support more musical requests, both for the military and events throughout Iowa. Current MPTs include the Concert and Marching Bands, Sidewinders Rock Band, 42 Romeo Rock Band, Scrap Metal Popular Music Group, Synergy Winds Woodwind Quintet, Ceremonial Brass MPT, and Operation Groove Jazz Ensemble.

Synergy Winds quintet members are Douglas Davenport, clarinet; Cherie Knight, flute; Ben Lempka, bassoon; Michelle Monroe, horn; and Kelley Ullerich, leader. All are current members of the 34th Iowa Army National Guard Band. They will start playing at 1:30 p.m. as people arrive for the Veterans Day program at 2 p.m. featuring Michael Wilson’s “One Man One War, One Hundred Years” art exhibit and Corning Center for Fine Arts poppy installation. Synergy Winds will perform as part of the program and play “Taps” at the poppy field in Central Park. This is a free event for the public.

On Nov. 11, Corning Hy-Vee and Corning Rotary Club will serve a free breakfast to veterans and their spouses from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the Corning Community Center. 
​
Free coffee for veterans will be served Nov. 11 at Backgrounds Coffee Bar and Boutique. The coffee is sponsored by Miltner Insurance

School measures
on Nov. 5 ballot

Voters in the Corning Community School District and the Villisca Community School District will be asked Nov. 5 to reauthorize Southwest Valley School District’s physical plant levy.

“On the ballot this November will be reauthorization of the school’s voted physical plant levy rate of .67 per $1,000 assessed value. This levy is required by law to be voted on every 10 years,” Southwest Valley superintendent Chris Fenster said. “The district uses PPEL funds to improve buildings, purchase busses, and purchase new technology. Some examples of projects that have been paid for by the VPPEL/PPEL account are middle school demolition, stabilizing the activity center, repairing roofs, tuck pointing, bus purchases, new technology, lighting for athletic fields, and new LED lighting in buildings. Future projects will include stabilizing the high school track, office relocation at Enarson Elementary, new bus barn in Corning, new boiler for the activity center, technology purchases, new fencing at athletic fields in both districts and several other projects. This voted PPEL has been in place for the past 20 years and is a very important part of the community support for the schools in providing the best facilities, transportation, and technology for our district.”

School board members at Corning and Villisca are also on the ballot. Gwen Larsen and Amy Grau are on the Corning ballot and Jason Poston, Richard Allen Mullen, and Tom A. Williams are on the Villisca ballot.

CAM, Creston, Griswold, Lenox, and Orient-Macksburg school board candidates appear on the ballot as are Southwestern Community College District 1 and District 2 directors. 

City elections for Carbon, Corning, Nodaway, and Prescott will also take place Nov. 5.

In Carbon, Larry E. Johnson is the mayoral candidate. Council candidates include Harold Wayne Mitchell, Donna Rochau, Helen Hickman, Vicki Haley, and Michael Kempton.

In Corning, Janice Mercer Leonard is the mayoral candidate. The council at large candidate is Bert Peckham. Gardy Badgett is the Ward 1 candidate and Adam Goodvin is the Ward 3 candidate.

In Nodaway, Patricia A. Shipley is the mayoral candidate. Council candidates are Gary Poen, Gene Dixon, Brenda Dunn, Rebecca Poen, and Christine Dunn.

In Prescott, the mayoral candidate is Theresa West. Council candidates are Julie Krauth and Kimberly Reed.
​
For more information about the election, contact the Adams County auditor’s office at (641)322-3340.

Chase ends in wreck,
​drug charges

A Waterloo man is facing multiple charges following a high-speed chase Oct. 20, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office.

The Adams County K9 unit stopped a vehicle driven by Matthew Bowlden at approximately 1:34 a.m. Oct. 20 near Highway 24 and Nodaway Avenue for a speeding violation, a Sheriff’s Office press release says. K9 Baxo was deployed and gave a positive alert to the odor of narcotics but Bowlden barricaded himself in the vehicle and refused numerous orders to exit the vehicle.

After the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office arrived to assist, deputies again attempted to get Bowlden to exit the vehicle but he still refused. Deputies attempted to gain entry into Bowlden’s vehicle but Bowlden drove off west on Highway 34 at speeds exceeding 100 mph. Bowlden headed south into Brooks and continued on gravel roads where he eventually lost control and wrecked near 255th and Filbert Avenue.

Bowlden was subsequently arrested for attempting to elude a law enforcement vehicle, possession of a controlled substance first offense, possession of drug paraphernalia, and interference with official acts.

Bowlden was also cited for speeding (103 mph in a 55 mph zone, 80 mph in a 40 mph zone, and 80 mph in a 30 mph zone), failure to obey a traffic control device, failure to maintain control, no insurance-accident related, careless driving, reckless driving, failure to carry registration card, and operating a non-registered vehicle.

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.

Students harvest corn
​for Watch Me Grow 

As rain approached Adams County, Corning Elementary fifth-graders completed their Watch Me Grow project at POET Biorefining on Oct. 9 with a harvest celebration.

Students, teachers, and parents were invited to POET to hand pick the corn they planted last spring with the help of some POET and Nutrien Ag Solutions employee volunteers, Farm Bureau members, and Southwest Valley High School FFA students.

Thirty-two students harvested their corn, sold it to POET, and earned $3.75 each for their crop. The students began the project as fourth-graders when last spring they planted their corn crop, Farm Bureau sales associate Jennifer Westlake said.

“Every two weeks between planting day and harvest day the students received an update on their crop, informing them of how much their crop had grown, how much precipitation it had received along with information regarding crop growing conditions, biology and science,” she said. “This is the fourth year for the program providing an opportunity for students to experience what the American farmer might experience when growing a crop.” 

The students and guests toured POET Biorefining before harvesting their corn, ending their visit with games and a picnic lunch.

CARIE MORALES/Free Press — Jim Maeder with St. Patrick’s Knights of Columbus presents a check for $2,859.17 Oct. 2 to Fostering Hope, a foster/adoptive closet that provides toiletries, clothes, toys, and other items to those in need. From left are Michelle Morgan, left, the Rev. Jessica Paulsen, Megan Boswell, and Jim Maeder.

Fostering Hope
​receives donation

St. Patrick’s Knights of Columbus was one of Fostering Hope’s most recent donors.

The Knights of Columbus presented a check for $2,859.17 to the foster/adoptive closet Oct. 2.
Located at The First Presbyterian Church at 907 Grove Ave. in Corning, the closet has been helping foster families throughout the area since its opening in May 2018.

“We’ve been growing exponentially in terms of donations,” said Megan Boswell, one of the organizers. She and Michelle Morgan saw the need for faster parents in the area and started Fostering Hope to support foster families.

Fostering Hope began with clothes, toiletries, and other necessities but also has other items for children and infants such as cribs, beds, swings, and other baby gear, Boswell said.

Along with helping meet physical needs, Fostering Hope is also providing information and resources for foster families. On Nov. 7 Fostering Hope will present This Is Foster Care, which will provide information for those interested in learning more about foster care. Boswell said the event will feature seven or eight different speakers to raise awareness, answer questions, and provide information about foster families. This Is Foster Care will take place at the Corning Community Center.

Boswell said plans are under way for a training conference this winter. She said the conference will focus not just on foster families but also on teachers, pastors, mental health professionals, and others who work with foster families.

Boswell said its help such as the recent donation from the Knights of Columbus that has helped Fostering Hope grow and reach those in need.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to community and everybody who is supporting us,” she said.

For more information about Fostering Hope, call Boswell at (641) 226-1908 or Morgan at (641) 202-1995.

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​Governor’s Volunteer Awards

Iowa Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg presented the Governor’s Volunteer Award to two Adams County volunteers Sept. 27 at the Southeast Polk High School Auditorium in Pleasant Hill. Both Marilea Mullen, left, and Chris Nelson have both given countless hours to the community. The Adams Community Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors nominated Nelson and Main Street Iowa nominated Mullen for the award.

SWV homecoming 2019

Twenty-two join SWV staff

Editor’s note: With Southwest Valley Schools welcoming 22 new staff members this fall, The Adams County Free Press asked them to share a bit about themselves to help introduce them to the community. Below are their responses.

Diane Mitchell is the new elementary art teacher for Southwest Valley Schools. 

“I grew up in the small town of Auxvasse, Mo., and graduated from North Callaway R-1 High School in 1991.”

Mitchell earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Monmouth College in 1995. She has taught K-8th grade art in both Illinois and Iowa.  

“While at Monmouth College I met my husband, Andrew,” she said. “Andy is the athletic director and assistant principal for Atlantic High School. We have four children: Emily is a junior at Iowa State, Tyler is a freshman at Iowa State, Grace is a sixth-grader at Atlantic Middle School, and Anna is 4. I am looking forward to enriching the lives of the students of the Southwest Valley Schools.”

Amanda Donahoo teaches third grade at Corning Elementary School.

“This will be my fourth year teaching third grade, and I have been teaching since 2010. I grew up in Corning and graduated from Corning High School in 2006, so I am thrilled to be back home in the Southwest Valley School District.”

Donahoo attended Northwest Missouri State University and graduated in 2010, where she majored in Elementary Education, minored in Early Childhood Education, and received a K-8 Reading Endorsement. 

“My husband Anthony is beginning his first year as the Southwest Valley High School principal and is the varsity football coach of the Timberwolves, as well,” she said. “Our daughter Kinsey is in first grade and our son Karsen is in preschool We are happy to have our entire family in the same district and especially to be in our hometown.”

Kaci Mullen teaches second grade at Corning Elementary.

“I was born in Marshalltown, Iowa,” she said. 

Mullen received her bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and her master’s degree from Morningside College. Her endorsements include reading, social studies, and coaching. 

“I have been an elementary teacher since 2014. Previously, I taught kindergarten in Adel and first grade in Clarinda,” she said. “I am married to my husband, Matt. We love attending country concerts as well as cheering on the Cyclones and Huskers. I am so excited to be a part of the Timberwolf family.”

Dawn Shuler is the new Corning Elementary School secretary.

“I have worked in the healthcare field for the past 20 years and am very excited to start this adventure at the elementary,” she said. “My husband John and I live on a farm south of Corning and stay busy with our four kids, two in school and two out of school.”

Stephanie Cook teaches fifth grade at Corning Elementary. She earned her degree in Elementary Education at Northwest Missouri State University.

“Growing up on a farm in rural Missouri, Corning feels very much like home,” she said. “This past summer I got married and my husband and I officially moved to Creston. In my free time I enjoy spending time with family, friends, our pets, and cooking.”

Angela Hartman is an ELP/Title I teacher at Corning Elementary.

“I grew up in Southwest Iowa. I went to elementary, middle school, and some high school in the Red Oak school district, and graduated from Lenox High School. I have lived in Corning since 1994,” she said. “My husband, Scott, and I married in 2018, and we share six children.”

Hartman received her bachelor’s degree from Buena Vista University in 2016 in Elementary Education with endorsements in K-8 reading, and middle science and math. 

“I am currently working toward my masters endorsement in TAG,” she said. “Previously, I taught middle school math and reading at East Union School District. I now work at Corning Elementary School in the Title/TAG program. I am looking forward to a fantastic year.”

Lisa Sorensen is the instructional coach at SWV Elementary. She attended Northwest Missouri State University where she received her degree in education. 

“Early in my career, I taught middle school and high school education. Most of my career has been spent teaching in elementary classrooms,” she said. “My husband, Dan, and I live in Villisca. We have a son, Austin and a daughter, Erin. I enjoy spending time with my family.”

Joshua Lucken teaches sixth-grade math and science at SWV Middle School. He has a degree is in K-8 Education with endorsements in middle school and coaching. His certifications at the middle school level include math, science, and social studies. He received his degree from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa. 

“I played baseball for the Red Raiders for three years, and is still one of my favorite hobbies,” he said. “I was born and raised in Sioux City, and am brand new to the Southwest Valley Community. Some of the things I enjoy doing are coaching, watching movies, playing basketball, and hanging out with friends.”

Keith Hardy teaches sixth grade at SWV Middle School. Born and raised in Red Oak, he attended Red Oak Community Schools and received a bachelor’s degree in education from Buena Vista University.
 
“In my free time, I enjoy mountain biking with my beautiful wife Teresa, wonderful kids Kaley and Cody, and their spouses Patrick and Beth and my absolutely beautiful grandkids Finnley, Faye, and Albin,” he said. “Go Timberwolves!”

Jerry Hartman is the new PLTW (Project Lead The Way) instructor.  

“We are teaching Design and Modeling, Automation and Robotics and also have two STEM classes challenging some of the eighth-graders. I also teach the eighth-grade computers class and have a sixth-grade reading intervention class as well as my den.”

Hartman has a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Iowa State University and will complete a Masters of Education degree this December at ISU.  

“My wife and I live on the family farm south of Creston. We have four children, oldest son is getting his doctorate in Agronomic Meteorology from ISU, oldest daughter graduated from ISU, commissioned into the Air Force and was married all this last May. My youngest daughter is a junior in Music Education at ISU and my oldest son is a senior at Creston Community High School,” he said. “My hobbies include being a sports official for football, basketball, soccer, track and field, baseball, and softball. I love to spend time on my Harley and on the tractor. I also enjoy flying as well as being a drone pilot and basically anything outside.”

Michelle Williams teaches seventh- and eighth-grade science and coaches junior high volleyball and girls basketball. She is originally from Villisca, where she graduated in 2009. She majored in biology and secondary education at Iowa State.

“After graduation I moved back home for a bit and substitute taught in the area. My first full-time teaching position was at Thomas Jefferson High School in Council Bluffs. There I taught biology, AP biology, and chemistry, coached junior high volleyball, and sponsored several after school clubs,” she said. “I am currently working on completing my master's degree from Morningside College. This last summer I completed a six-week teacher externship at the Omaha Zoo through the Iowa Governor's STEM Advisory Council; I hope to do more teacher externships in the future. I am very excited to be back in the community. Go Timberwolves!”

Blake Anderson is one of the 9-12 Agriculture Education instructors and FFA advisors at Southwest Valley Community Schools. He graduated from Corning High School in 2009 and from Northwest Missouri State University in 2012.  

“For the past six years, I taught at Nodaway Valley Community Schools in Greenfield, Iowa. I currently serve on the Iowa FFA Association Board of Directors, as the State FFA Creed Speaking Career Development event chairperson, on the Southwestern Community College Agriculture Department Advisory Committee, as the vice president for Adams County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, on the Adams County Rural Development Committee, and as the chair of the Ag 4 All Committee based out of Adair County,” he said. “I farm part time with my family near Nodaway, raising corn, soybeans, hay, and beef cattle. I enjoy traveling, seeing new places, and bringing these experiences into the classroom to make a real world connection with the students.”

This year Anderson is teaching Introduction to Ag, Ag Entrepreneurship, Ag Leadership, Ag Power and Technology, Ag Woodworking and Construction, and Farm and Home Maintenance. 

“I look forward to meeting all of the students as well as expanding my connections in the communities,” he said.

Evan Baldwin is the new physical education teacher at SWV.

“I am actually from Southwest Valley. I originally went to Villisca High School, then I graduated with the first class of Southwest Valley in 2014,” he said. “I then pursued my career in physical education at Northwest Missouri State University, where I obtained a bachelor's degree in physical education. I am very sports oriented, and many of my hobbies revolve around them. I also enjoy racing, spending time with friends and family, and officiating different varsity athletic sports.”

Marsha Schrader is the new Spanish teacher at SWV. She was born in Corning, lived on a farm near Guss, and graduated from high school in Villisca. She attended the University of Northern Iowa where she earned her BA in Spanish-Teaching. During her undergraduate studies, she spent a semester in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Later after teaching several years, she earned an MA degree from UNI.

“I have taught in several places in Iowa, mostly recently at Newton High School. I retired from Newton in 2018 and have since moved back to Southwest Iowa. I was blessed to be able to travel with students and adults on several trips to Spain, and to France, Mexico, and El Salvador,” she said. “The biggest blessings, however, are my three adult children who live in central Iowa. My two sons work as engineers and my daughter is a student a UNI, seeking a teaching degree. We all enjoy being together, whether it is here on the farm or elsewhere.”

Other SWV staff members are fifth-grade teacher Claire Swanson, counselor Blake Reser, para educator Marissa Kiner, special education teacher Michael Robinson, art teacher Marie Sussman, cook Andrea Parrott, ag teacher Jackie Rush, English teacher Denis Stull, science teacher Jamie Fehring, Early Childhood Education Center site coordinator Tonya Inman, site coordinator, and school resource officer Dalton Green.

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Submitted photo — Third-place Open 4 Business contest winners Andrew and Misty Johnson with RJ’s Plumbing & Heating in Corning pose for a photo after receiving a $5,000 grant to support purchase of new equipment and software.

RJ’s Plumbing takes third in Open 4 Business contest

Andrew and Misty Johnson with RJ’s Plumbing & Heating in Corning will receive a $5,000 grant to support purchase of new equipment and software after taking third place in the Open 4 Business contest.

Euphoria Coffee, located in West Union, bested four other competitors in a pitch contest Aug. 27 in conjunction with the Iowa Downtown Conference in Dubuque. 

Five businesses from Main Street Iowa communities across the state competed in the final round of the Open 4 Business contest, which started with a field of 22 applicants in May. 

“I’m always wowed by our competitors. It takes guts to stand in front of a panel of judges and share your dreams for your businesses,” said Debi Durham, director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority and emcee of the event. “They each have a unique story, but they all share a passion for their Main Streets and a commitment to using their business to make their communities better.”

Euphoria Coffee owners Nick and Jacey Yost will receive a $20,000 grant, which they plan to use to purchase additional roasting equipment and create an outdoor gathering space at their new Main Street location. Runner up, Blooming Acres, located in Mount Vernon, will receive a $10,000 grant. Owner Becka Owen plans to expand her space and materials for hosting crafting classes. 

“Euphoria’s owners have created a welcoming place for customers, but they’re also giving back to their community and supporting other small businesses by sourcing their ingredients locally,” said Durham regarding what stood out about the evening’s winners. “Blooming Acres is leveraging the makers movement to bring new business to Mt. Vernon and RJ’s Plumbing & Heating is continuing a family business while supporting an apprenticeship program to train the next generation.” 

Luxurious Hair Care in Dubuque, owned by Shamika Ranier, and Mayberry’s Coffee House & Eatery in Osceola, owned by Molly Crawford, rounded out the five semi-finalists making their pitch. All semi-finalists received $8,000 in support of their business plans and for standing out among the significant field of Open 4 Business applicants. 

Judges for the event included Rand Fisher, Iowa Area Development Group; Vada Grantham, director of Entrepreneurship at DMACC; Sandy Ehrig, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation; and Lisa Shimkat, state director of the Iowa Small Business Development Center. 

“Main Street Open 4 Business enables entrepreneurs in downtown districts to take an in depth look at their current business operations and think big about business expansion opportunities,” said Michael Wagler, Main Street Iowa state coordinator. “The innovation, hard work and leadership these businesses demonstrate reinforces each local Main Street’s efforts to enhance their local commercial districts.”

This is the fifth year of the Open 4 Business contest. Businesses located in the 54 Main Street Iowa districts across the state are eligible to apply for the grants, which are administered through IEDA’s Iowa Downtown Resource Center and Main Street Iowa programs. 

Since its inception, the Main Street Iowa program has generated nearly $2 billion in private investment, more than 3 million volunteer hours, nearly 5,000 new businesses and more than 15,000 jobs. Main Street Iowa is one of 40 programs in the Main Street America network and is often held up as an example of how to successfully leverage the “Main Street Approach” to revitalize downtowns and inspire economic growth.
​
For more information about the Main Street Iowa Open 4 Business Grant program, contact Robin Bostrom, business specialist, Main Street Iowa, at (515) 348-6176 or [email protected].

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SWV resource officer bridge gap

With classes back in session at Southwest Valley, students there are getting a bit of extra guidance.

SWV school resource officer and Adams County deputy Dalton Green is bridging the gap between young students and law enforcement while maintaining a safe school environment. As a leader and role model, his job is to have a positive impact on young people’s lives.

Green joined the Adams County Sheriff’s Office in May after serving as a Red Oak police officer the past three years. 

“I always wanted to be a police officer then I found out about school resource officers,” he said.

Along with law enforcement experience, Green has also worked with youngsters with behavioral problems at Boys Town and Heartland School, helping them get their lives back on track and complete their education.

Green said working with young people is rewarding, especially when they overcome difficulties and succeed. His wife also works with young people. She’s a case manager at Clarinda Academy. They have four children.

Green received his associate’s degree from Iowa Western Community College and his criminal justice degree from Buena Vista University. 

During the summer, Green serves as a deputy, working the night shift and patrolling the county. Right now, though, Green is helping students have a safe and successful school year.

“We’re off to a good start,” he said. “I’m just kind of popping in and out of classrooms, just building relationships with kids and trying to deter bad behavior from happening.”

Harvest of Hope
​to take place Sept. 8

This year’s Harvest of Hope auction and raffle Sept. 8 at the Corning Opera House will help foster families and children in Southwest Iowa.

St. Patrick’s Knights of Columbus will donate a portion of their proceeds to Fostering Hope, a foster/adoptive closet that provides toiletries, clothes, toys, and other items to those in need. Fostering Hope is located at The First Presbyterian Church at 907 Grove Ave. in Corning. Co-chairs of the organization are Megan Boswell and Michelle Morgan.

“It started as just helping this county,” Knights of Columbus member Wayne Rychnovsky said. “It’s helping Southwest Iowa now.”

The Harvest of Hope auction and the big meat raffle raises funds for St. Patrick Catholic Church and local organizations. 

“It was very successful two years ago. A portion of those proceeds were donated to the Adams County Ministerial Alliance,” Rychnovsky said.

This year’s Harvest of Hope includes a wide variety of auction items. Some of the donated items include a youth spring turkey hunt, a trail ride, wildlife prints, a youth harvest ride, a church pew, a set of new golf clubs, a progressive prime rib dinner for six, an Iowa State football ticket and tailgate package, University of Iowa football tickets, an oak six-gun cabinet, two cases of Iowa wines, and a family home entertainment package.

The meat raffle includes two quarters of beef and two hogs for four prizes total. Raffle tickets are available by calling Tom Miller at (712) 621-1281 and will be available during the auction.

“Winners will be announced that night,” Rychnovsky said.

Doors will open at 4 p.m. Sept. 8 at the Corning Opera House. Dinner, which includes pulled pork sandwiches, will begin at about 5 p.m. Freewill donations will be accepted. The auction will begin at 6 p.m.

Changes made in city, school elections

This fall will feature a change in the way city and school elections are handled in Adams County.  

In years past school elections were held in September and city elections were held in November in odd numbered years. This year will be the first year, due to a change in state law, that the elections will be combined in November and voters will cast their ballots in their normal polling places used for general elections. From now on voters will always vote at the same location for every election. This should be less confusing for voters who are concerned where they vote for different elections, Adams County election clerk Nancy Turner said.

Not all offices will be on the ballot in every precinct nor for every voter in a particular precinct. All ballots will contain school offices and ballots for voters residing inside the corporate limits of a city will also contain city offices. Depending on the election cycle, some ballots may also contain community college offices. Another change is that all voters will vote in their county of residence. 

“In years past for example, Taylor County residents who were part of the Corning Community School District would come into Adams County to vote in a Corning Community School election,” Turner said.  “Now those residents will be voting in Taylor County for those same races. Voters must vote in their precinct of residence.”

The precinct polling places and addresses for Adams County are:

Precinct 1 — Corning Community Center, 601 Sixth St., Corning

Precinct 2 — Corning Public Library, 603 Ninth St., Corning

Precinct 3 — Redeemer Lutheran Church, 800 17th St., Corning

Precinct 4 — Nodaway Community Center, 300 Seventh Ave., Nodaway

Precinct 5 — Prescott City Hall/Library, 607 Second Ave., Prescott

Voters who are unsure of their precinct for this election should contact the Adams County Auditor and Commissioner of Elections at (641) 322-3340 or by e-mail at [email protected]. Voters may also verify the voting location for their home address at https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/voterreg/pollingplace/search.aspx

“More specific information will be available as we get closer to the election date of Nov. 5, 2019,” Turner said.  

The Adams County Auditor’s Office is available for additional information from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at (641) 322-3340.

CARIE MORALES/Free Press — Corning Hotel LLC members, City of Corning and Adams County Board of Supervisors representatives, and DCI Group members break ground Aug. 22 for the Corning Hotel at 2260 Jupiter Ave.

Ground broken
for Corning Hotel

Corning Hotel LLC broke ground Aug. 12 at 2260 Jupiter Ave. in Corning.

Donna Hogan, president of the LLC, said that after several years of investigating options, looking at feasibility, and determining the best location for the project, the hotel team is excited to put shovels in the ground.  Forty-six individuals or entities, most of them either local or with a tie to the community, invested in the project. The 33 room, two-story hotel will include two extended-stay rooms with kitchenettes, a double king suite, and various king and queen rooms. Amenities will include cable TV, wireless internet, guest laundry, and free breakfast.   

Leland Shipley, chairperson for the Adams County Board of Supervisors, thanked both Adams County Economic Development Corporation and the hotel team for moving the project forward. He also talked about the opportunity this brings to Adams County.  

Brandon Schulte, vice president of DCI Group, introduced the team that will be working on the project and shared their enthusiasm for the project.  

“DCI is a design-build company, and we look forward to starting the build part of the process,” he said. 

“Currently, our community sends visitors, business associates, and family members out of the community for overnight accommodations,” Adams Community Economic Development Corporation executive director Beth Waddle said. “These people take their spending dollars out of town also; purchasing gas, meals, lodging, and retail dollars as well as sales taxes with them. The hotel will assist in keeping more of those dollars local. We also have bus tour companies wanting to spend a couple of days in Adams County taking in tourist activities, but when they find out they have to travel almost 30 miles to book the number of hotel rooms needed, they won’t come back for the second day. Corporate executives, trainers, examiners, and business to business associates also travel to regional locations for lodging instead of staying local.”

While the smallest county by population in Iowa, Waddle said the community makes a big splash. Not only is it known as an award-winning National Main Street community, it is on the National Register of Historic Places as a Commercial Historic District, is a Preserve America Community, and is one of Iowa’s Great Places. She said the new hotel will open up opportunities for more people to experience what Corning and Adams County have to offer.
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The Corning Hotel is anticipated to open the summer of 2020.

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Seven join ACS
Hall of Fame

The Adams County Speedway inducted four former drivers, two contributors, and a long-time racing fan into its Hall of Fame on Aug. 3.

The 2019 Hall of Fame inductees are drivers Bob Kosiski, Chuck Hulett, John Hampel, and Jerry Carlson, contributors Luie Avila and Kirk Elliott, and fan Steve Houck.

Bob Kosiski

Bob Kosiski, “the man who started the Kosiski Racing Legend,” got his racing career started almost by accident in 1950 in Central City, Neb., when a relative, Stan Williams, didn’t show up, leaving Kosiski to drive the car. 

“I’ve been hooked on racing ever since,” he said. 

After graduating from South High School in 1952, Kosiski started taking his racing seriously. He started racing a’32 Ford Modified Coupe that his dad owned. They raced at Riverside Speedway in South Omaha, Playland Park in Council Bluffs and Grandview Race Bowl in Bellevue. In 1953 Kosiski won his first track championship at Riverside. After getting out of the service in 1959, he returned to racing, but decided to step up a notch and started racing with the International Motor Contest Association. Driving his dad’s 1959 Thunderbird against the likes of Ernie Derr, Dick Hutcherson, Darrell Dake and Ramo Stott, Kosiski posted four wins in IMCA over the next couple of years. In 1960 he started out the season running the Daytona 500 and was doing well until his Thunderbird’s rear end gave out and he retired from the race. 

During his driving career Kosiski recorded numerous track championships at Riverside, Playland Park, Sunset Speedway (including a string of seven in a row), and Whitehead Speedway near Nebraska City. ln 1973 he won just about everywhere he ran including six straight wins over a two-week period at Sunset, Harlan and Corning as well as the Nebraska Late Model Nationals at Doniphan and the Nebraska State Fair Championships in Lincoln. 

Kosiski retired from the driver’s seat after the 1978 season, but he did not retire from racing. With Kosiski tuning the engines, his three sons won two national and six regional NASCAR Weekly Racing Series titles while also dominating the Busch All Star Tour with 12 total titles. Kosiski considers his biggest win to be the 1960 win at the Minnesota State Fair while his most memorable race was the 1960 Daytona 500. One of wife Grace’s fondest memories is Bob racing one holiday weekend. 

“He raced five times in four days and won all five,” she said. 

While Kosiski’s racing career at Corning was somewhat limited he did drive both the familiar No. 53 and Wayne Mason’s 2X to several wins. ln addition, he also helped his sons win many features, special events, and track championships at the Adams County Speedway.

Chuck Hulett

The late 1990s and early 2000s produced a Hall of Fame driver from Creston by the name of Chuck Hulett. A dominate force every time he took to the track, Hulett tallied 10 career weekly series wins in the ACS Pro Street Division. His start in racing and the journey for car No. 23 came in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s when his dad built a 1966 Chevelle SS big block four-speed that Shorty Adamson drove at the Adams County Speedway. 

Hulett began working in the pits at ACS when Chris Rehmeyer raced the No. 33 Camaro in the mid- to late ‘80s and in 1991, Hulett purchased a cage kit from Sardenson Racing and built his first car, a 1980 Camaro. In 1992, Hulett raced for the first time at ACS, finishing second in his heat and 10th place in the feature before going on to be that seasons Pro Street Rookie of the Year. ln 1997 he purchased a John Kinney Camaro, collecting three wins and finishing second in the points to his great friend and competitor Mike Garner. Then in 1998 Hulett had a break out season, winning four features including championship night over fellow competitor Tim “The Toolman” Taylor, en route to winning the ACS Pro Street Championship. 

Following his championship season, Hulett stepped away from the track to devote time to his family, including his wife Tami and sons Keaton, Kadon, and Kolby. Retirement, however, was short lived as Hulett formed a partnership with Eddie Hensley to return to the track with Hulett returning to the seat in 2003. Together from 2003 to 2005, the duo would capture four weekly series wins, along with a special event win during a USMTS visit. 

Hulett’s impact on ACS reaches well beyond his time behind the wheel. From 2004 to 2009 Hulett would begin building the UCC Chassis focusing on hobby stocks and stock cars, a venture that kept him involved in the sport and made him responsible for introducing new talent to the speedway, and helping to mold racers into champions.

Stepping aside after the 2005 season, Hulett again switched hats, becoming a car owner for a young Steve Churchill. Together they would record six wins in 2007 along with winning the season ending Tradition. Hulett returned to the driver’s seat in 2010, this time behind the wheel of a hobby stock for the first time. In only six starts that season, Hulett went on to record two feature wins while driving a back-up car owned by Pat Shiflett. 

“I am honored to be inducted to the 2019 Adams County Speedway Hall of Fame,” Hulett said.
 
John Hampel

Long-time late model driver and speedway contributor John Hampel joins his parents Gail and Karen Hampel in the Adams County Speedway Hall of Fame. Hampel’s 33-year racing career began in 1983 and concluded with his retirement from behind the wheel in 2016. During his career, the driver of the famed Nodaway Elevator No. 2h collected a total of 53 weekly series wins at the Adams County Speedway, a mark which ranks third on the all-time late model wins list. From 1986 through his retirement in 2016, Hampel and crew collect victories in 24 out of 30 seasons at ACS. The Nodaway native reached the pinnacle at ACS in 1991 and again in 1993 by beating out some of the best in the Midwest by becoming the Adams County Speedway Late Model Track Champion. His respectful driving style and all around “good guy” personality that he exhibited with his competitors also earned him multiple late model sportsmanship awards. 

In addition to his many weekly wins and track championships, Hampel also put his name in the record books by winning some of the biggest late model specials in ACS history. Those wins included the 1993 IMCA Summer Nationals and the 2004 WDRL. His WDRL victory is etched in ACS history as one of the most dominating performances, an event that found him winning the race and leading the majority of the laps after starting in the 27th position. Along with his triumphs at ACS, Hampel also captured the 2004 and 2007 Alphabet Soup/WDRL feature events at the I-80 Speedway.

Off the track, Hampel and crew constructed the majority of the structure of the seats and decks ACS fans jump up and down on to cheer on their favorite drivers. Hampel ranks in the top three in all-time ACS history for number of laps in a water truck or pulling a sheepsfoot or wheel packer. During the ACS flood of 1987, Hampel and fellow ACS competitor Tim Cooney set the unofficial non-motorized two-person watercraft track record for their lap around the track in a canoe.

Jerry Carlson

Jerry Carlson goes down in the ACS Hall of Fame as one of the most versatile and adaptive drivers in speedway history. Carlson got his start in 1987 in what was then known as the Pro Street Division. In a time period that saw a weekly car count typically in the 30s or higher, Carlson was able to capture a total of 28 feature wins over a nine-year span, a number that is still fourth all time in the division. Carlson’s nine wins in 1996 still stands as an ACS Pro Street record for most wins in a season. His Pro Street era concluded in 1996, but not before he put his mark on the record books with consecutive track championships in 1995 and 1996. In 1997 Carlson and team would take on a new challenge by making the move to the Modified Division. He proved to be a quick study, capturing a pair of wins in his first year in the modifieds. Carlson’s ACS racing career in the modifieds lasted until 2007, resulting in a total of 17 modified feature victories, as well as the 2002 Hard Charger of the Year. While he never captured a modified title, Carlson was honored in 2006 as the ACS Driver of the Year. 
Carlson is noted for his respect earned from his fellow competitors and officials. During his 20-year career he was four times named Pro Street Sportsman of the Year while also earning the same honor twice in the modifieds.

Luie Avila

Joining the 2019 ACS Hall of Fame is long-time contributor Luie Avila. Avila got his start at ACS in 1976 in an unconventional way — by helping to hook up cars and trailers in the rain and mud so they could be towed out of the infield. 

In 1988 Avila was nominated to the Adams County Fair and Racing Association by Hall of Famer Harry Wiechman and his wife Shirley. Avila has continued to serve on the ACFRA for 31 consecutive seasons, including a stint as board president for eight years. During this time span, the man labeled as the “Dirt Terminator” has done almost every job at the track at one time or another, mostly in tech inspection and assisting and leading track preparation efforts. 

Avila has been supported by his wife of 31 years, Jess, along with three children, Michele, Michael, and Sarah. The speedway has been a huge part of his family’s life — it is where he informed his wife many years ago on the front stretch that they were getting married, and even served as his kid’s playground growing up, spending countless hours with their father at the track which he has poured his heart and soul into for over three decades. 

Kirk Elliott

Joining the 2019 Adams County Hall of Fame is long-time speedway announcer and publicist Kirk Elliott. Elliott served the speedway in this capacity from 1984 through the 2000 racing season, giving race fans a detailed and informative race call as well as providing press releases to local medial along with national and regional racing publications. From 1982 through 1985, he also broadcast a weekly pre-race show live from the track for KSlB Radio in Creston. Elliott retired from weekly public address announcing after a 30-year run in 2000 to focus on a new business venture with Scott Traylor, covering racing on Kansas City radio station Sports Radio 810 WHB. The duo later developed RacinBoys.com, a premier motorsports website offering racing coverage across the U.S. Both of Elliott’s post ACS ventures continue to operate and thrive today. 

“As a Mount Ayr, Iowa, native, I always have considered Adams County Speedway home, and during my time there, was privileged to have witnessed the transformation of this fairgrounds speedway into one of the premier dirt track facilities in the country,” Elliott said. “The greatest years in my career in racing were spent at the Adams County Speedway. A big thank you to the Hall of Fame and to all the volunteers that have kept this great race track going all these years. I will forever be grateful to Gail and Karen Hampel whose memories I will always cherish.”

Steve Houck
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Steve Houck is one of the biggest supporters and fans to grace the gates of the Adams County Speedway. Houck was not only a huge supporter at ACS but also a huge community supporter, always backing his hometown Corning Red Raiders. Houck never missed a week of action at the speedway and will be remembered by many as the familiar face that greeted them inside the front gates each week as he sold the Hawkeye Racing News.

Mild weather greets Doctors Dash runners

Sunshine and mild temperatures gave dozens of runners and walkers near perfect weather conditions July 27 for the 20th Annual Doctors Dash during Corning Main Street’s Lazy Days.

Event winners were: 

6.5 mile run — Overall winner female Kathie Madron of Oakland, Iowa; male Justin Karp of Dobb Ferry, New York. First through third placing in age categories female/male were: 15-19 Sydney Davies, Aubrey Boswell and Bella Johnson; Blake Ventiecher; 20-29 Caleb Sorensen; 30-39 Caycie Fidler; Matthew Ramsey 50-59 Tom Williams, Doug Oldenkamp; 60-69 Alan Adkisson.

3.2 mile run — Overall winner female Keely McCarthy of Dobb Ferry, New York; male Matthew Lee of Council Bluffs, Iowa. First through third placing in age categories female/male were: 14 and under Kya Newton, Zaina Harvey; Evan Timmerman, Jacob Boswell, Joe Scarpello. 15-19 Adam Timmerman; 20-29 Aunica Harvey; Blake Lee; 30-39 Sheila Ramsey, Katie Zimmerman, Stephanie Hodapp; Andy Olson 40-49 Lori Harvey; Andy Timmerman; 50-59 Sheri Cooney, Tammy Newton, Cindy Williams; 60-69 Barb Corey, Debbie Jurshak; Melody Zadina.

3.2 mile walk — Overall winner female Sandy Drake of Albuquerque, New Mexico; male Tracy Burroughs of Byron Minnesota. First through third placing in age categories female/male were: 14 and Under Megan Ramsey; 20-29 Trent Newton; 30-39 Mindi Moore, Shonda McCuen; 50-59 Karen Mullen. Michaeleen Burroughs; 60-69 Paula Sink; Jon Brokaw.

One mile walk — Overall winner female Joslyn Boswell of Council Bluffs, Iowa; male Marvin Smith of Corning. First through third placing in age categories female/male were: 30-39 Hope Jackson; 40-49 Jodie Boswell, Cheryl Richey; 50-59 Kyle Dasher.

Several youth from the 2019 Kids Camp attended and participated free as part of the camp.

Sponsors were Amy Wetzel, Pharm D, Dr. Michael DelCore, Dr. Gregg A. Drabek, Dr. Tom McGinn, Dr. John Thomsen of Family Vision Center, Dr. Maria Reyna Fuller of Fuller Family Dental, Dr. John Safranek, Paislee Dalton, ARNP and Kyle Dasher of Aspire Behavioral Health. Corning HyVee provided post-race fruit. Twenty-eight volunteers are a special part of the success of the event which starts and finishes in downtown Corning. The Mercy Health Care Foundation and CHI Health Mercy Corning Community Wellness staff coordinate the event. All proceeds from event benefit area youth programs provided by CHI Health Mercy Corning.

CARIE MORALES/Free Press — Local veterans pose for a photo July 14 after being presented with Quilts of Valor during a ceremony at the Adams County Fair.

Quilts of Valor
presented to 21

Twenty-one local veterans were honored July 14 during the Adams County Fair when they were presented with Quilts of Valor.

Receiving quilts were:

Ray Thomas, who served in the National Guard 168thInfantry 34thDivision “Red Bull.” He enlisted in May 1948 and served 10 years, then reenlisted in 1976 and served until 1988. He was promoted to Sergeant First Class (E-7). The quilt was made by Kathy Bozwell and was  quilted by Piece Works Volunteers.

Kent Dunn, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam from 1965 to 1968 with the rank of Staff Sergeant. The quilt was pieced by Judi Perrin and quilted by Piece Works Volunteers.

Merle Jordening, who answered a draft letter in December 1960 upon returning from his honeymoon. He did his basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo., and Fort Riley, Kan., and cook school at Fort Leonard Wood. He was stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas, in a headquarters unit as a cook and was promoted to Specialist (SP-4). The quilt was made by Diane Walter and quilted by Piece Works Volunteers.

Paul Harris, who served in the U.S. Navy from 1967 to 1971 during the Vietnam War with the rank of Naval EB’s E-4. The quilt was pieced by Joleen Nelson and quilted by Kay’s Quilting of Allendale, Mo.

Kennard Cooney, who served in the National Guard from 1951 to 1952. He was in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1954 at the rank of Corporal, serving in Korea. He attended Non-Commissioned Office School while in Austria. The quilt was pieced by Joleen Nelson and quilted by Kay’s Quilting.

Roger D. Hull, whose military career was twofold. He was in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years from Nov. 10, 1959, to Dec. 1, 1979, where he was on active duty. He was also in the Air Force reserve. He spent four years in the Iowa Air Guard in Des Moines. His army career was with the 394th Ordinance Battalion in Ames. He spent 26 years in the elite Veterinary Corps. After volunteering for active duty at post 911, his entire military career was 42 years. He retired as a Command Sergeant Major for the U.S. Army. The quilt was made by Diane Davis.

Richard Harvey, who served in the U.S. Army for just over a year in Korea with a rank of E4 Communications. The quilt was pieced by Judi Perrin and quilted by Piece Works Volunteers.

Harley A. Speary, who served in the Army. He was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and at Fort Benning, Ga. He was trained in Alabama for helicopter maintenance and readied the Medivac to send out. He served in Korea, attaining rank PFC-E3. The quilt was made by Kathy Bozwell and quilted by QOV Foundation Volunteer.

Ross Griffith, who served 12 years from 1963 to 1971 and from 1973 to 1978 in the Marines in Vietnam. He was a Hospital Corpsman Frontline with the rank of E-6 (Staff Sergeant) Second Class. The quilt was made by Diane Walter.

Bob Moore, who served with the U.S. Air Force from July 18, 1966, to July 17, 1970, during the Vietnam War with a rank of E-5. The quilt was pieced by Judi Perrin and quilted by Kay’s Quilting.
Ivan L. Dixon, who served in the Navy from 1957 to 1961 with the rank of Torpedo Man Second Class. The quilt was made by Erma Fuller.

Bruce J. Peters, who served in the U.S. Navy from June 9, 1961, to June 8, 1967. He served at Chicago Great Lakes Training Center and Norfolk Naval Air Station where he was attached to the VR-22 Helicopter Squadron. He attained the rank of HM2 (Flight Surgeon Assistant). The quilt was pieced by Judi Perrin and quilted by Val Russell of Murray, Iowa.

Richard Lee Butkovich, who served in the U.S. Navy from Dec. 12, 1963, to Dec. 20, 1969, during the Vietnam War. He attained the rank of E5. The quilt was pieced by Judi Perrin and quilted by Cindy Drake of Corning.

Dick Pettit, who served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam from 1961 to 1963. He served with the National Guard from 1963 to 1964 and with the Army Reserves from 1964 to 1967. He received the rank of Specialist 5. The quilt blocks were made and machine quilted by QOV members and were pieced and bound by Donna Peckham.

Warren Blaisure, who served as chaplain’s assistant in 1969 with the rank of Private. He trained at Fort Dicks in Brooklyn, N.Y., and was stationed in Korea. The quilt was made by Diane Walter.

Ronald J. White, who served in the U.S. Army for three years. He attained the rank E6 Staff Sergeant. The quilt was pieced by Judi Perrin and quilted by Piece Works Volunteers.

Merlin Rex Dixon (A/1C), who served from Aug. 1, 1958, to July 31, 1962, in the U.S. Air Force with 3973rdCombat Defense Force and the 16thAir Force Strategic Air Command U.S. Air Force. The quilt was made by Erma Fuller.

John Michael Adams, who served with the U.S. Navy from 1959 to 1979 in Aircraft Maintenance. He was with Squadron 192 VS29-VC8 where he worked on AEW Barrier (Air Early Warning Barrier). He served on the USS Coral Sea, the USS Kitty Hawk, the USS Ranger, and the USS Oriskany. He was stationed at Hawaii, California, and Florida. The quilt was made by Diane Walter.

Adam Grundman, who served in the U.S. Navy from 1997 to 2002 and in the Army Reserve from 2002 to 2006 where he served in Operation Iraqi Freedom. The quilt was made by Becky Grundman.
Holly R. Steeve, who served in the U.S. Army from 1982 to 1997 and in Desert Storm. She attained the rank of sergeant. The quilt was pieced and quilted by Piece Works Volunteers.
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Rex Eberly, who served in the U.S. Air Force for 21 years from October 1954 to February 1975. He retired as Chief of Quality Control and was awarded an Accommodation Medal with Third Oak Leaf. He worked on and flew B47 and B52 bombers with nuclear weapons. In 1967 he did temporary duty in Guam as Crew Chief and flew combat missions over South Vietnam. The quilt was made by Diane Davis.

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First Presbyterian celebrates 150th

The First Presbyterian Church of Corning is inviting the community to join in the celebration of its 150th anniversary with a weekend worship service from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. July 28 in Central Park in Corning.

The congregation has been observing its anniversary since April when it held a birthday party for the church. In May the church hosted the regional presbytery and in June hosted a Chamber Coffee. For homecoming church members will participate in Southwest Valley Schools’ homecoming parade, wrapping up the celebration with a congregational dinner in November.

A 150th anniversary in itself is enough cause for celebration, but the early history of the First Presbyterian Church brings even greater cause for celebration. What is now First Presbyterian began in 1869 as two separate congregations, the Rev. Jessica Paulsen said.

Five charter members met Aug. 21, 1869, to form the First Presbyterian Church and three months later on Nov. 22, seven charter members met to form the Congregational Church of Christ in Corning, Iowa. Then, in 1919, the two churches decided to become a federated congregation, joining together for a unified mission.

“They kept separate roles but functioned as one church,” Paulsen said. 

The federation lasted until 1952 when the churches voted to officially become one as part of the Presbyterian Church. That was also the year the Rev. Bill Sinning became the first pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Corning. Since his retirement in 1979, the church has had just two other pastors — the Rev. Ken Rummer from 1980 to 2017 and the Rev. Paulsen.

Paulsen, who came to Corning last year, said working on the church’s 150th celebration has helped her learn more about the community and the church.

“It’s been really helpful to me to learn the history,” she said.

Some of that history can be found in a booklet about the church’s last big celebration, its centennial in 1969. From that booklet and from other sources, Paulsen created a 150th anniversary trivia quiz about the church’s history that’s been presented in the church bulletin each week since April. The quiz also appears in the church newsletter and on the church website.

“We’ve had a lot of fun responses from people who have moved away,” she said.

The July 21 trivia question is “The Congregational Church ordered a 500-pound bell. How much did the bell that arrived in Corning actually weigh?”

Along with the trivia quiz, the church is celebrating with photos and memorabilia about its history, including a friendship quilt created in the 1930s for a former church member. All of it is on display at the church.

“There’s a lot of history here,” Paulsen said about the displays.

Submitted photo — Receiving Adams Community Foundation Grants at the July 5 Chamber Coffee in Corning Central Park are, from left, Bert Peckham and Janice Leonard, City of Corning; Chief Deputy Rich Miller, Adams County Sheriff’s Office; Billi Vavra and Jeanne Birt, Prescott Fire and Rescue Association; De and Jim Heaton, Corning Opera House Cultural Center; Stacey Haskins, Children and Families of Iowa; Emma Christianson and Sara Lemke, Food Bank of Iowa; and Alyssa Ogburn, Corning Public Library

Adams Community
​Foundation Grants awarded

Adams Community Foundation Grants totaling $53,372.83 were awarded July 5 at the Chamber Coffee in Corning Central Park.

With the most recent grants that were awarded, almost $122,000 has been re-invested back into the community this year. To date, the Foundation has awarded more than $1.3 million in grants given to Adams County non-profit organizations and governmental entities since 1986.

Grants awarded include the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, $7,380 for Tasers; Corning Opera House Cultural Center, $30,930 for window repair and restoration; Corning Public Library, $290 for software; Food Bank of Iowa, $627.83 for a box truck; Children and Families of Iowa, $760 for SafeChild curriculum; City of Corning, $11,125 for electrical updates at Lake Binder; and Prescott Fire and Rescue, $1,260 for equipment for CPR classes.

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CARIE MORALES/Free Press — This year’s Adams County Fair queen candidates are, from left, Emily Laurer, Katie Walters, Destiny Seyler, and Jasmine Wilborne.

Welcome to Fairadise features family day

Adams County Fair attendees will receive a Welcome to Fairadise this year July 12-17.

The annual 4-H and FFA fair will also feature family day July 15 with games, a bounce house, a Ferris wheel, a magician, a Iowa State University insect zoo, a Youth Council ice cream social, and a movie on the lawn during Family Fun Night.

Activities take place from 9 a.m. to noon July 12 with clean-up day and lunch provided by the Adams Community Ambassadors at 11:30 a.m. Gates and the beer garden open at 6 p.m. with the opening band Basic Bohn at 6:30 p.m., the introduction of queen candidates at 7 p.m., and the band Hairball at 7:05 p.m.

Animal weigh-in and check-in will take place from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. July 13 and open class static judging from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The 4-H static exhibit judging and 4-H bake sale will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. An open class dog show followed by an open class pet show will take place at noon. The Clover Kid Showcase will be held from 12:15 p.m. to 1 p.m. At 6:30 p.m., Adams County Speedway will host 4-H/FFA Race Night with the queen coronation taking place during the 8 p.m. intermission.

A south of the border breakfast will kick off at 6:30 a.m. July 14 followed by the Lawrence Peterson Memorial Tractor Ride, the 4-H/FFA horse show, and 4-H/FFA sheep and goat show at 8 a.m. ATV races begin at 9 a.m. in the grandstand. Adams County Antique Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the pavilion as will Ford Paradise featuring Ford tractors and cars with the Antique Tractor Club and Southwest Cruisers Car Club. At 1:30 p.m., 4-H Share the Fun will take place followed by presentations and working exhibits. The Antique Road Show and old-time demonstrations will begin at 2 p.m., as will a bag/corn hole tournament. The 4-H/FFA broiler and fryer show will begin at 3 p.m. Quilts of Valor will be presented at 5 p.m. and the Fire Department Barbecue will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the lawn. The fashion revue and clothing selection will take place at 5:30 p.m., 4-H Foundation recognition and 4-H Hall of Fame induction will begin at 6 p.m. followed by the presentation of State Fair plaques at 6:15 p.m. and a demolition derby at 7 p.m.

The 4-H/FFA swine show gets under way at 7:30 a.m. July 15. Kids Day in the Pavilion will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and a Science Center of Iowa and Blank Park Zoo Outreach exhibit will be open from 9 a.m. to noon. Blank Children’s Hospital Fire Safety House and the Lion’s Club Ferris wheel will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. A children’s show with Mikayla Oz the Magician will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The 4-H/FFA pets and small animal show will begin at 11 a.m. and a Rotary luncheon and meeting will take place at noon. The Bill Riley Talent Show starts at 4 p.m. and ISU’s interactive insect zoo will be open from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Extension Council barbecue will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and a parade will be held at 5 p.m. as will the Youth Council ice cream social and pie and cake auction. The baby contest and all-age pedal pull begin at 5:30 p.m. Family Fun Night with games and inflatables takes place from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. with a movie on the lawn at dusk.

The Endowment Fund Pancake Breakfast begin at 7 a.m. July 16 followed by the 4-H/FFA dairy cattle and dairy goat show at 8 a.m., the 4-H/FFA beef show at 8:30 a.m., and the 4-H/FFA dog show at 1 p.m. Livestock judging takes place at 1:30 p.m., Agriculture Day in the Pavilion is from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., the bottle/bucket buckaroos show their cattle at 5 p.m., and the community barbecue takes place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Double S bull riding competition begins at 7:30 p.m. and non-sale animals will be released at 9:30 p.m.

The livestock auction will begin at 9 a.m. July 17 with Senior Day taking place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The open cookie contest for all ages will be held at 9:30 a.m. and entertainment under the pavilion will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. A community luncheon will be held at noon in the southeast room as will an awards presentation. Bingo takes place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and building exhibits will be released at 1:30 p.m.

Adams County Fair events wrap up at 10 a.m. July 20 with carcass results at Corning Meat Locker.

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60th annual Flight Breakfast to take place

Corning Municipal Airport’s annual Flight Breakfast will marks is 60th year July 4.

The Flight Breakfast will be held from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the airport. The meal will include pancakes, sausage, and eggs free to fly-ins. The cost is $6 for adults and $4 for children under 10. Basic Bohn will provide live music.

The first Flight Breakfast was held July 12, 1959, with 400 people attending and about 74 airplanes, according to the July 16, 1959, Adams County Free Press. The Chamber of Commerce sponsored the event and Corning National Guard members served a breakfast of pancakes, eggs, coffee, and milk.

“Highlights of the day included four parachute jumps by Lyman O’Neal, of New Providence, Idaho, who was visiting relatives in Corning,” the 1959 Free Press said. “Mr. O’Neal made two morning and two afternoon jumps from a plane piloted by Kenneth Roland, Corning. He made his jumps from an altitude of around 4,500 feet.”

Wes Rittel served as master of ceremonies. Rittel awarded prizes to Jack Mills of Creston for first plane to land; Earl Lewis of Creston for oldest plane, a 1939 Luscomb; W.W. Foote, 70, of Missouri Valley for oldest pilot; Dennis Knee, 18, of Cumberland for youngest pilot; and Major Leo Sullivan from Hanscom Field, Massachusetts, who flew the greatest distance.

“Cadets of the Corning Civil Air Patrol unit assisted with parking duties. Cars shuttled both drive-ins and fly-ins to the main hangar area,” the Free Press said. “Committee in charge of the general planning included Lyle Silsby, chairman, Dick Miller and Junior Leonard.”

Corning woman
​warns of scam

A Corning woman recently said an unknown caller claiming to be from the Social Security Administration attempted to get her to supply personal information.

According to the woman, the caller said there was an issue with her Social Security account but if she provided her Social Security number he could resolve the issue.

The woman did not give out her information but wants other Adams County residents to protect their personal information and be suspicious of callers seeking such information.

The Social Security Administration said such calls from unknown numbers are on the rise. A caller claiming to be with the Social Security Administration threatens that Social Security benefits will stop immediately unless personal information is provided. The scammer uses the information to steal one’s identity, sometimes under the guise of helping compete a disability application.

The Acting Inspector General for Social Security, Gail Stallworth Stone, urges everyone to stay vigilant of impersonation schemes and to not be afraid to hang up.

Stone said Social Security will never:

• Call to demand an immediate payment;

• Demand that someone pay a debt without the ability to appeal the amount owed;

• Require a specific means of payment, such as requiring payment with a prepaid debit card;

• Ask for personal information or credit or debit card numbers over the phone; or

• Threaten arrest or deportation.

Anyone receive such scam call or email should hang up immediately or delete the email without providing any information and contact Social Security’s Office of Inspector General at https://oig.ssa.gov/report.

If one receives a notice from Social Security, use the telephone numbers provided in the notice. For more information, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit socialsecurity.gov.

SWV Schools give back

On June 4, the Southwest Valley Schools faculty participated in their inaugural give back to the community project. 

Staff painted, cleaned storm drains, removed material from the Corning Opera House, did service work at the Icarian Village, and cleaned up the athletic fields in Villisca. 

“The communities support our schools so well during the year that this will become an annual tradition at the conclusion of each year,” a press release from SWV says. “The inclement weather cancelled a few areas where we had planned to work, but the staff were flexible as always and moved to different projects.  Some of the projects were on campus and included painting rooms at Corning Elementary.”

The schools plan to reach out for other projects next year so staff members can help area communities. They also plan to serve the First Friday BBQ in Corning Central Park in September 2020.

Feed The Pack
​moves forward

Corning is joining hands with Villisca and will be offering the weekend-food backpack program Feed the Pack.

The program will now be called Feed the Pack East Campus and Feed the Pack West Campus. These packs will include nutritious meals for children on free and/or reduced meals at school. During the 2019-2020 Corning Elementary School registration, forms for interested eligible families will be available. Confidentiality of participants will be honored, as only school personnel will be distributing the food packs.

Feed the Pack board members said the program has received donations from POET, Judy Loonan, Miltner Insurance, Hastings Mutual, St. Patrick Altar Society, Anna Leonard, CYC, New Balance Commodities, Feeders Grain, and Norvell Houck’s People in Need. The group will continue to explore possible funding sources for additional grants and donations.

“In order for Feed the Pack East Campus to be a self-funded program for the 2019-2020 school year, we need continued community support,” the Feed the Pack board says in a press release. “Individuals interested in making a $150 donation would be covering the cost of weekend meals for one child for the entire school year.”

To donate, contact Melody Miller at (712) 621-6224 or Jessica Wilson at (641) 322-5175.

“The Feed the Pack-East Campus board is optimistic that we will have continued community support for kids and families in this important endeavor,” the press release says. “In order to meet their full potential, children must have their basic nutritional needs met. We will continue to share our progress as we Feed the Pack.”

Connection & Conversation
begins June 3

A new initiative to communicate between businesses, Adams Community Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Board members, the community, and any concerned person will soon get under way.

The first Connection & Conversation will be held at 7 p.m. June 3 at the Corning United Methodist Church.

Main Street and Chamber director Marti Gebbie said both boards feel it is important for the community to connect to share information and ideas, answer questions, collaborate, and network.

“We are all passionate about where we live, work, and play,” she said. “Let us combine our collective skills and abilities, learn what initiatives are in the works, and help shape our future. We are stronger together for the betterment of our community.”

The plan is to hold Connection & Conversation the first Monday of even months. Organizers will have a short list of informative items to share. Those who have something they would like addressed are asked to let the Chamber or Main Street know or bring it up at Connection & Conversation.

“Our goal is to work together as a collective collaborative effort in a relaxed, informal networking environment,” Gebbie said. “If there are concerns you wish to share, we want to hear them and work together to reach an amicable solution for the betterment of our community and businesses.”

Receptions to honor
six at SWV

Just as Southwest Valley’s class of 2019 is beginning its next stage of life, so too are a half dozen SWV employees who have been a part of not just this graduating class’s education but that of many others.

Three at the elementary school — Denise Bradley, Karen Graf, and Sally Thompson — and three at the high school — Jack Hill, Andrea Nett, and Pete Nett — totaling more than 200 years of experience will be honored from 1 pm. to 3 p.m. May 31 with receptions at their respective schools.

For most of the retirees education was a career choice but for Hill, who has been a bus driver for 57 years, it was a job that fit into his farming schedule.

“Ray Gauthier needed someone to fill a bus driver position,” he said. “I was just going to do it until spring and I’m still doing it.”

Graf, an administrative assistant, began her career in as secretary for the Prescott superintendent and board of education then in 1987 became Corning High School secretary. Bradley and Thompson both began their careers in special education, Bradley at Corning High School/Junior High and Thompson at Iowa’s Area 4 Northwest Area Education Agency. All three said changes in technology — from carbon paper and chalkboards to touch screens and iPads — has been challenging but it has also benefited students.

“Technology has created more learning tools for teachers and students,” Bradley said.

She said there’s also more collaboration between teachers and more is expected out of children academically.

“Students are more responsible for their own learning through goal setting and project based learning,” Bradley said.

Pete and Andrea Nett, who are finishing up 35- and 36-year teaching careers, have seen those same changes.

“The job has gotten more difficult because of kids having access to so many different kinds of technology,” Pete said. “It is hard to keep up with all of it and equally hard to compete with it for limited attention spans.”

For Hill, the changes have come differently. He’s driven the same route for most of his career as bus driver, taking three generations of some families to school.

“I drove my grandson when he started school,” Hill said. “Now he’s going to be 34 the 1st of June. He started kindergarten here in Corning.”

But, he said, the route has changed since then.

“Now the homesteads are gone,” he said. “The population is probably less than half it was then.”
Although the school district has changed over the decades, all of the retirees said working with students is its own reward.

“The best part is the kids,” Graf said. “When they come and give you a hug or make something for you or you can make them feel better in some way.”

Thompson agreed. She said the best part about teaching is the students, each and every one of them.

“If you named a kid I could give you a highlight,” she said.

“The best part of this career is watching a kid ‘get it,’ whether that's in the classroom, on the ballfield or on the stage,” Pete said. “Watching kids get a little more confident in their abilities because of an activity that I led is something I never got tired of.”
Bradley said the support she received from staff and administration made her career more enjoyable but watching students from the beginning of the school year to the end of the year was the best part.
“Enjoying the smiles and giggles, the riddles and knock-knock jokes,” she said. “The excitement and smiles on their faces when they accomplish their goal. The excitement they feel when they are teaching me something. … Being a part of the redesign of the elementary library and seeing the students’ faces when they first saw the change.”

Pete said those changes and excitement are still milestones in the lives of high-schoolers.

“I remember certain lessons in specific classes that received great feedback, and then wondered why the lesson didn't get the same feedback the next year,” he said. “I remember the kids in their first play/speech contest, and how nervous they were, and how excited they were with their performance. I remember various kids having their ‘coming out party’ during a tennis match, when they walked onto the court with one level of proficiency/confidence and walked off the court an hour later with a whole new perspective on their game.”

Hill said the students he’s driven over the years have always been polite. He attributes that too their parents.

“I’ve had a good bunch of parents,” he said. “If a bus drive has confidence in parents and good communications with them, that’s half the battle.”

Hill said he’s going to miss his morning drives and watching the seasons change along his route.

“And you meet a lot of good people,” he said. “You kind of stay in touch, in other words.”

Retirement will be different for all of them. Thompson isn’t certain what retirement will mean for her while Graf plans to travel, read, and spend “more time with Shannon, Sean, Carter, and Lincoln in Oklahoma.” Bradley plans to work on landscaping her yard and flower and vegetable gardens, spend more time with her grandchildren, and travel to Branson, Mo., but she’ll also stay in touch with students. She plans to substitute teach at SWV.

The Netts plan to move to the Kansas City area to be closer to their children and the rest of their family.

“While we're looking forward to the start of a new adventure, we're also incredibly sad to be leaving our home and community,” Andrea said.  “We've loved our lives here in Corning, and leaving is difficult.”

“My immediate retirement plans are to have a Beach Boys' ‘Endless Summer.’” Pete said. “We plan to move to Kansas City to be closer to family, but I have no other big plans outside of that. When I get tired of having endless summer, I will deal with whatever I want or need to do then.”

Hill, who thought he would only drive a school bus for one year, planned to retire last year but after driving “better than a million miles” will finally set his own schedule.

“I’m going to enjoy myself and not watch the clock,” he said. “I’ve watched the clock all the time except summertime.”

The retirees were asked to share any words of wisdom that might have for students, teachers, or parents. Graf said simply “Enjoy every day,” while Thompson said “Just because something’s hard it doesn’t mean it’s not worth it.” Thompson said.

“Be curious. Read,” Bradley said. “Reading is an adventure where you can be entertained or learn so many new things.”

Pete said he didn’t really have any words of wisdom but did share a bit about some of the things he’s told students in class the last few years:

“You can't do everything with your life, but that doesn't excuse you from doing anything,” he said. “If the first thing doesn't work out, find something else, but find something.  I guess I spent more time in class the last few years talking about the nature of the kind of work that different classroom activities and assignments entailed, and always tried to end it with ‘If you take anything from this, know what kinds of things you like to do and are good at, and find a career that fits those things.’”

Despite retirement, all of them said they will miss their time serving the school district and community.

“I will certainly miss the students and staff,” Graf said.

“It has been absolutely my privilege to be able to work with the youth of this community,” Pete said.

On being a teacher
By Andrea Nett

I was asked by the Free Press to answer a few questions about teaching and how teaching has changed over the years. I basically chose to ignore the questions and just write about my teaching career in general, about what I know and about what I've learned. I hope I didn't go too far off topic. Thanks for listening.

Some people are gifted with beautiful voices or the ability to play basketball. I feel gifted every time I walk into a classroom, and students invite me into their hearts and minds. I love all the nuances: the sizzle of creative energy, the quiet intensity of deep thought, the relieved nods of understanding, and the light of sudden comprehension. That is my gift — I am a teacher.

Once in a great while, there is a kind of certainty that occurs in a person's life. I knew when I was six or seven that I would teach. Through the years, that commitment never really wavered. I grew up loving school, loving the magic that took place inside the four walls of a classroom. Somehow I always knew and always accepted that I would be the one in charge of creating and sustaining that magic someday.

In today's classroom, magic isn't always easy to come by, but nothing worth having is. One of the first things a teacher learns is that the classroom is anything but foolproof. And truthfully, that's part of the challenge. I've learned to embrace uncertainty and welcome the unexpected. If I'm to perform magic, there are other skills I need to utilize: tap dancing around emotionally charged situations, juggling seven or eight problems at a time, reading minds, and reading faces.

There is no single, well-lit path to education. What there is instead is a need to cherish learning and to teach my students that there is joy to be had in reading a poem, in writing an essay, or in making a successful argument. As a teacher, my greatest wealth is a bone-deep appreciation for my students, for their individual strengths, for their humor, for their warmth, and for the ability each and every one of them has to learn.

When people ask what I do, and I tell them that I teach, they often respond with grimaces, with sympathetic noises — once a woman patted my arm. Something in our society is askew. Teachers are seen too often as poorly paid baby-sitters who command little or no respect, who put up with abysmal working conditions, and who have to deal with apathetic students. For those people, the fact that I teach is reason enough to feel sorry for me.

The good news is that through 36 years of teaching, I haven't needed anyone's sympathy. My classroom has been a vital place where apathy never reared its ugly head. I have loved teaching. And at the risk of sounding sappy, I have loved my students. Most of all, I loved the magic that we created inside the four walls of a classroom. And I will miss that magic.

American Theater
celebrates 5 years

Saturday night at the movies is alive and well in Corning, thanks to community support,  a group of volunteers, and a business plan that exceeded expectations.

While tickets and concessions at multiplex cinemas mean a small fortune for many families, the Corning American Theater still keeps family entertainment affordable.

The American Theater will soon celebrate its five-year anniversary after reopening on June 6, 2014. And while a few things have changed at the theater, prices there remain what they were in 2014.

“It hasn’t changed much,” said Donna Hogan, who along with husband Rich, Jim and Carrol Ruppert, and Doug and Carolyn Oldenkamp worked to reopen the theater after it sat closed for seven years. 

The theater reopened with the movie “Godzilla,” contributions from 54 donors, and the hope of attracting about 75 moviegoers on average each week. That average is now 155 each week, double what was originally budgeted. Attendance even swelled to 455 for one week with “American Sniper.”

Attendance alone, however, isn’t what makes the American Theater a success. There’s also revenue from two upstairs apartments and local ads run on the screen before the movies’ showing. And, of course, there’s continued community support.

“It works because the community allows us to make it work,” Rich Hogan said.

That support came first from donors who pitched in to reopen the theater and it continues today Wednesday through Sunday when all ages come to the big screen for entertainment. Whether it’s kids’ movies for young students when a ticket can include a free small popcorn and drink, a $5 Sunday matinee, or a $2 box of candy, affordability is part of the draw.

“We wanted to be reasonably priced so families could come to the movie,” Jim Ruppert said.

“I like to say a kid can come in, get a movie ticket, a pop, popcorn, and candy for under $10,” Doug Oldenkamp said.

While the prices have remained unchanged the last five years the theater itself hasn’t. Community grants have helped fund improvements such as hearing impaired glasses and headsets and most recently the Corning American Theater became the first theater in Iowa to add a curved movie screen. 
Last summer the theater installed a new Harkness curved movie screen and 15 new speakers. Along with the upgraded equipment, the theater increased its seating capacity from 100 to 105 by removing seven chairs from the front row and installing 12 new recliners in the first two rows.

“The seats are as popular as we thought they would be,” Doug Oldenkamp said.

He said the recliners are the first seats filled, with some arriving early just to make sure they get a recliner.

The theater provides more than entertainment, though. There’s also a few staff positions that give high school students work experience but for the volunteers — the Hogans, the Rupperts, the Oldenkamps, Brenda DeVore, and Jill Sjulin — it’s what the community gives back to the theater that’s so valuable.

“The community does a wonderful job supporting us,” Donna Hogan said.

Teams sought
​for Andrews Memorial

Teams and sponsors for the 12th Annual Greg Andrews Memorial Golf Tournament scheduled for Aug. 3 are being sought.

The tournament was started as a fundraiser for the Booster Club with then athlet­ics director Greg An­drews, who was instrumental in the organization and direc­tion of the tournament. Upon Greg’s passing after the first tournament, the tournament was memorialized in his name and continues to raise fund for the Southwest Val­ley Booster Club and provide for the success of our student athletes.

“This golf tournament started out as a way for teachers/coaches, community members and our booster club to spend a day together golfing, promoting Corning sports and raising funds for our athletics program,” SWV athletics director Allen Naugle said. “The first year we had this tournament would have been the summer after my first year teaching in Corning. I have attended every one of them since.”

Registration for the 18-team, four-person best-ball tournament is due Aug. 2. The entry fee is $140 per team. Lunch will be provided. Mulligans will be on sale for $5 with a limit of three per person. Tournament champions will receive a plaque. Hole prizes will be offered. Hole sponsorship is available for $25. Signs will be posted at each hole showing support of SWV athletics.

Tee time is 9 a.m. Aug. 3 at Happy Hollow Country Club in Corning. All proceeds will go to the improvement of the SWV athletic fields and facilities.

“The Greg Andrews Tournament still is a great way for our community members, booster club and staff to golf together and spend a day promoting our athletics. It is now a great way however to raise funds for and promote Southwest Valley Athletics,” Naugle said. “Anyone is welcome to attend and play. The more teams the better.”

To register, sponsor a hole, or donate, checks may be sent to Naugle at 904 Eighth St., Corning, IA 50841. Checks should be payable to the SWV Booster Club.

For more information, contact Naugle at SWV High School at (641) 322-4245 or ​[email protected].

Baker-Maynes sworn
​in as supervisor

Bobbi J. Baker-Maynes officially became District 5 supervisor for Adams County at the Board of Supervisors’ April 22 meeting.

Baker-Maynes took the oath of office and officially was sworn in as supervisor District 5 to fill a vacancy for the remainder of the term ending Jan. 2, 2021.

Baker-Maynes replaced Corey Moore following her election April 9. Moore was appointed to fill the seat vacated by Karl McCarty, who now serves as the county roads maintenance supervisor.

After Baker-Maynes was sworn in, the board heard from county engineer Travis Malone about ongoing project. 

Malone also presented fuel bids from three vendors: United Farmers Cooperative for $134,691.60, RK Fuels for $134,215, and Agriland FS for $133,634. The board unanimously approved the UFC bid.

In other business, the board:

• Approved a health insurance rate increase and renewed insurance with Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield through Miltner Insurance;

• Discussed hiring outside counsel for human resources concerns. The board asked county attorney Andrew Knuth and auditor Becky Bissell to gather more information;

• Approved county claims; and

• Discussed committee reports.

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Free Press photo — Five trumpeter swans enter Lake Icaria after being released May 12, 2017, by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Trumpeter swans
to be released May 9

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources will release six trumpeter swans at 9:30 a.m. May 9 on the north side of Lake Icaria at the east boat ramp in partnership with the Adams County Conservation Board.

Swans will also be released at Viking Lake and Lake Anita. All releases will occur rain or shine.

These releases are part of the Iowa DNR’s statewide effort to restore trumpeter swans to Iowa that began in 1993. Trumpeter swans were once common in Iowa, but were gone from the state by the late 1880s. By the early 1930s, only 69 trumpeter swans remained in the lower 48 states. 

It takes six years, on average, before trumpeter swans successfully nest. Last year, Iowa was home to 54 pairs of nesting trumpeter swans; however, only two of those nesting pairs were south of I-80. Dave Hoffman, wildlife research technician with the Iowa DNR, said the goal is to raise that number to eight, which would likely create a self-sustaining population.

“We are hopeful to get them nesting here in a year or two,” Hoffman said. “We had swans displaying some territorial signs at Lake Icaria, which is encouraging.”

As the largest North American waterfowl, these all-white birds can weigh up to 32 pounds and have an 8-foot wingspan. The trumpeter swans being released are young and flightless and will imprint on the area where they learn to fly, returning each year as open water is available. The swans were donated to the project from zoos in Cleveland, Kansas City, Green Bay, Wis., Oklahoma City, Bronx, Anchorage, Alaska and Maryland.  

Each event includes a swan and wetland presentation, an opportunity to touch and view the swans up close, and a photo opportunity with the kids. Staff from the Kansas City Zoo will be on hand offering educational activities, and filmmaker Steve Harryman may be at these releases collecting footage for an upcoming documentary “Return of the Trumpeter Swans, in partnership with the Trumpeter Swan Society.

For more information, contact David Hoffman at [email protected] or 641-425-0737.

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DON GROVES/Free Press — Adams Community Cham-ber of Commerce Ambassador Jessica Wilson presents an Ambassador Salute certificate April 12 to county engineer Travis Malone for improve-ments at secondary roads de-partment building and engi-neer’s office at 2004 200th St. north of Corning.

County engineer hosts tour

Adams County’s engineer gave visitors a look at his new office April 12 during an Adams Community Chamber Coffee.

Engineer Travis Malone said the county had planned to complete moving into the new secondary roads department building and engineer’s office at 2004 200th St. north of Corning at the first of the year but weather delayed the move, which was completed Feb. 6.

The county purchased the former Iowa Department of Transportation maintenance property last year at a cost of $500,000 and added another $135,036 in improvements, which were paid for through the sale of county land and buildings. The new site includes office spaces, storage for county dump trucks and crew pickups, a wash bay, two overhead hoists, a parts room, and equipment storage.

Malone said the new site has made work more convenient for him and roads maintenance supervisor Karl McCarty.

“It keeps Karl and me here with the crew,” he said.

Malone replaced former Adams County engineer Eldon Rike in August, who retired at the end of June. Malone’s first day on the job was Aug. 13, just three days after resigning as Ringgold County engineer.

Malone worked as a bridge maintenance plans engineer for the Kansas Department of Transportation before the Dunlap native returned to Iowa. At KDOT, Malone worked with two other engineers. The three oversaw bridge inspection, plans, and data.

Malone and his wife have four children. He said she too was raised in Iowa.

“We both came back to Iowa,” he said.

With spring’s arrival, Malone said he’s working on bridge maintenance plans for the next five years, reviewing road conditions, and putting together plans pave them following a harsh winter. He said some of the roads, at least the ones that have been resealed, are in good shape.

“It’s just like painting your house,” he said. “It’s cheaper to keep a good bridge good than to keep a fair bridge fair.”

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Churches plan
​Holy Week services

With Easter fast approaching, Adams Community churches will hold Holy Week services beginning Palm Sunday, April 14.

Services include:

Corning First Presbyterian Church — Palm Sunday, April 14, 10 a.m.; Maundy Thursday, April 18, 7 p.m.; Good Friday, joint service with Corning United Methodist Church to be held at First Presbyterian, April 19, 7 p.m.; Easter, April 21, 10 a.m.

Corning United Methodist Church — Palm Sunday, April 14, 10:30 a.m.; Maundy Thursday, April 18, 7 p.m.; Good Friday, joint service with First Presbyterian Church to be held at First Presbyterian, April 19, 7 p.m.; Easter Sunday, Sunday school activities at 9:30 a.m. followed by worship at 10:30 a.m.

Prescott United Church Disciples of Christ — Palm Sunday, April 14, 9 a.m. adult Sunday school, 10 a.m. children’s Sunday school, 10 a.m. worship with blessing of Palms, 1:30 p.m. church service at Corning Specialty Care, 5 p.m. Lenten service at First Presbyterian Church of Creston, 7 p.m. Lenten service at Maple Grove (Guss) Methodist Church; Wednesday, April 17, 5:30 p.m. cross walk at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Lenox; Maundy Thursday, April 18, 7 p.m. at Sharpsburg Presbyterian Church; Good Friday, April 19, noon Lenten Service at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 7 p.m. Clearfield Methodist Church; Easter Sunday, April 21, sunrise service 6:15 a.m. outside church, followed by breakfast and movie, 10 a.m. Easter worship.

Redeemer Lutheran Church — Maundy Thursday, April 18, Service of Holy Communion, 7 p.m.; Good Friday Service of Darkness, April 19, 7 p.m.; Easter Sunrise Service of Holy Communion, April 21, 7:30 a.m.; Easter breakfast, 8:30 a.m.

Grace Baptist Church — Easter Sunday, April 21, continental breakfast 9:30 a.m., worship 10:30 a.m.

Living for Christ Outreach — Palm Sunday, April 14, 10:30 a.m. service and 6 p.m. evening service; Easter Sunday, April 21, 10:30 a.m. 

Carbon United Methodist Church — Good Friday, April 19, 7 p.m.

District 5 candidates
share views

Editor’s note: To give voters a better understanding of the candidates in the April 9 special election for Adams County Board of Supervisors District 5, The Adams County Free Press asked the candidates to respond to a questionnaire about their experience, views, and vision for District 5. The following are their answers in the order the candidates appear on the April 9 ballot.

Bobbi J. Baker-Maynes

Occupation: Farmer/bookkeeper 

Date of birth: June 27, 1965 

Years in Adams County: 31 years 

Family: Husband Lyle Maynes; three adult children, Montgomery Maynes of Omaha, Neb., Kennedi 
(Ethan) Cretsinger of Coon Rapids, Iowa, and Chase Maynes of Lenox, Iowa. 

Previous political experience: Served as a Mercer Township trustee and on the Adams County Extension Council. I am a member of the Iowa Farm Business Association and Lenox Chamber of Commerce, where I serve on the Lenox Promotions Board. 

Summarize why you are seeking office:

Several residents asked me to consider running, so I took a good look at what I had to offer to the Board of Supervisors. I am seeking office because I have the desire to serve, as well as the time required to fully commit to the job of supervisor. My children are grown, family commitments are not pressing, and I am motivated to do my part to make Adams County flourish. Characteristics I possess that will make me a good supervisor include being a good listener, organized, problem solving, following through, and doing what is right, even if it is the more difficult decision. I have dealt with financial situations, management decisions, as well as following the many government rules and regulations, as I am the bookkeeper for our family farm, while taking care of my parent’s aging needs before their deaths, both financially and medically. I simply want what is best for Adams County for future generations.

What do you see as the three greatest issues District 5 faces and what solutions do you have for dealing with these issues? 

Infrastructure: Continue to support and build our county roads, bridges, law enforcement, fire departments, medical services and educational systems. 

Tax base: We need to continue to look at our tax base in a fiscally conservative way. As the least populated county in Iowa, the residents and property owners of Adams County have a huge responsibility to support and promote economic growth. Supervisors always need to look at promoting, protecting and welcoming industry, local businesses, and new residents. 

Accountability: A supervisor needs to be accountable to those served. Decisions and actions made by the Supervisors, need to be clearly communicated. Additionally, Supervisors need to be accessible, so that concerns may be easily conveyed.

What is your vision for the district and Adams County for the next five to 15 years? 

It is my vision that Adams County remain one of the safest and most enjoyable places to live and visit in the State of Iowa. By spending wisely, we will create an environment of growth, capitalizing on the positive things that Adams County has, is and continues to build upon and create such as, a vibrant Corning Main Street, Lake Icaria, good school districts, access to SWCC, and entrepreneurial spirit of our current and future residents. As a farmer, I will be a strong advocate for protecting our property rights. We need to continue to work with our schools and community college to make sure our youth are being provided with the skills they need to make Adams County and Southwest Iowa successful. We are blessed to have great communities that we want to raise our children in. One of my goals are to help our youth maintain a positive image of where they are from, so they are inspired to stay and/or return to raise their own families in Adams County. Additionally, Southwest Iowa is a great place to call home. 

Corey B. Moore

Occupation: State of Iowa Department of Public Safety Senior Trooper with the Iowa State Patrol

Date of birth: 1971

Years in Adams County: Born and raised in Adams County. I moved away when I was 18 to go to college and I moved back 14 years ago to raise my family in Adams County. It is a great place to raise a family and my wife and I wanted to be near our own families.

Family: Son of Terry and Roxann Moore, married to Deena Moore and we have three children, Mikayla Moore, (University of Iowa), Kennedy Moore (Grand View University), and Joslynn Moore (Southwest Valley High School).

Previous political experience: This is my first political office I have ran for, however, I have served on several boards as a member and as the board president for many years including the Corning Parks and Recreation Board, the Corning United Methodist Church Trustees and the Corning Youth Club.

Summarize why you are seeking office:

I want to serve our county with honesty and integrity. I hope to serve the members of my district by always being there to listen to their needs. I may not be able to solve every problem because I am just one vote, but I will certainly make myself available to hear every concern and do my best to seek a resolution. 

I know there has been some discussion regarding whether or not I will have time to serve our county on the board with my job restrictions. I want to be forthcoming that it is my goal to attend every meeting asked of me and I have not missed one while I have currently been serving on the board. I have seniority in my position with the Iowa State Patrol and with that comes a good amount of flexibility and if it means I need to take a few hours of personal time on a regular basis in order to attend the supervisor meetings, I do not see that being a problem. 

There have also been some questions regarding the use of taxpayer funds to pay my salary as a state employee and also as a county supervisor. I understand the reasons for your concern, but I do want my constituents to understand that because I am already on state insurance benefits, I have not and will not be utilizing the county insurance benefits while in service, therefore, I hope that will result in a savings for our county.

What do you see as the three greatest issues District 5 faces and what solutions do you have for dealing with these issues?

I feel the greatest issues facing District 5 are the same issues facing all of Adams County. We need to PRESERVE, GROW AND RETAIN. I want to do my best to preserve the wonderful assets our county already has to offer including our current industry and our flourishing main street with new businesses and cultural event centers. I will continue to support our farmers and agricultural businesses along with the beautiful recreational sites in our county. I hope to accomplish this while also looking to increase and grow the job opportunities by encouraging new businesses into our area. I further want our county to retain our youth and encourage them to move back to Adams County to raise their families much the same way I did 14 years ago.

My goal is to see those profiting from Adams County’s resources be the members of Adams County. Those are the faces I have been out meeting and speaking with, they are the people I hope to better by remaining their county supervisor. 

The solutions to these three issues/goals is never simple and I know I won’t be able to please everyone. However, I will always be trying to do what is best for the most amount of people in our district and I plan to accomplish those goals while being conscientious of our safety, the budget and the general well-being of our community at all times.

What is your vision for the district and Adams County for the next five to 15 years? 

Well to be honest, I am proud of our home, the least populated county in Iowa. We as a county seem to be able to do a lot with not very much. I will continue to focus on what is successful in our county, I will look for more opportunities for our county and I will be working to identify and solve any threats or weaknesses that Adams County may encounter while serving as your District 5 supervisor. These are the tools I believe we need for Adams County to continue on its successful path and just keep it going forward in a positive direction. I look forward to continuing to serve as your District 5 supervisor and would appreciate your vote!

Karen A. Carlson

Carlson told the Free Press in a phone call March 29 she had withdrawn as a candidate.

Tim Peterson

Occupation: Self-employed owner operator Tim Peterson Trucking

Date of birth: June 12, 1955

Years in Adams County: 63

Family: Wife Kris; two married daughters, Heather and Rachel; one son, Lane.

Previous political experience: None

Summarize why you are seeking office:

To get more involved in the community and make a difference in the county.

What do you see as the three greatest issues District 5 faces and what solutions do you have for dealing with them:

Try to maintain the gravel roads, putting rock down before they lose their base.

Bringing back the population in our county and have people want to visit here.

Working to keep taxes lower, and spending tax payers money wisely.

What is your vision for the district and Adams County for the next 5 to 15 years?
​
For our community to grow and continue to be a safe place to live, work, and raise children.

Feed the Pack meeting
​planned for April 3

An informational meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 3, at the Corning Elementary Building to determine if there is community interest in establishing a Feed the Pack program in the Corning School District.

Feed the Pack was implemented in the Villisca Elementary at the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year to provide a weekend food source for eligible students. Some schools call this a weekend backpack program, even though a backpack isn’t involved. Corning students attending the Southwest Valley Middle School were included in the program effective December 2018.  The program provides individually packaged, easily prepared breakfast and lunch meals that are sent home with students on Friday or prior to any break period. Parents are required to opt-in to the program. Volunteers purchase and pack the food for the students; school personnel distribute the food to maintain family confidentiality.

Individuals who established Feed the Pack in Villisca will be present at the April 3 meeting to explain the program, funding, volunteer needs and how to get started.  The Villisca Feed the Pack group is in the process of establishing a non-profit entity and with the hope of collaboration between the communities in sharing the status. If there is interest in the program, the goal would be to create a core volunteer base in Corning that would implement Feed the Pack-Corning campus at the beginning of the 2019-2020 school year.

If there are questions regarding the meeting, contact Allison Thomas, Corning Elementary principal, or Pat Shipley, Feed the Pack, at[email protected].

Four seek District 5 seat

Four candidates have filed for the Adams County Supervisor District 5 seat vacated by Karl McCarty that will be filled during a special election April 9.

Corey Moore was appointed to fill the vacancy Feb. 15 and will serve until the results of the canvass of the election are complete.

The candidates seeking the District 5 seat are Republican Bobbi J. Baker-Maynes, current appointee Democrat Corey B. Moore, and Karen A. Carlson and Tim Peterson, both nominated by petition.

The polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Election Day, April 9. Voting is limited to those voters who reside in District 5-Prescott.
Absentee ballots are available at the Auditor’s Office at the Courthouse at 500 Ninth St., Corning, IA 50841. Ballots may be voted there 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. 

The Auditor’s Office has begun taking requests for those voters who wish to have an absentee ballot mailed to them. The request form can be found at www.adamscountyia.comor voters can call the Auditor’s Office at (641) 322-3340 to have a request form mailed to them. The deadline to request to have an absentee ballot mailed is 5 p.m. Friday, March 29. There will be no ballots mailed