MVL Sun — 02.20.25

MV Schools, city talk about collaborating on childcare center

Nathan Countryman

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

Mount Vernon mayor Tom Wieseler was asking if there might be potential to collaborate on a child care center in Mount Vernon with the Mount Vernon Schools system.

Wieseler explained that former superintendent Greg Batenhorst’s letter last March that outlined the enrollment at area schools being flat to stagnant was what spurred a discussion between Wieseler and city administrator Chris Nosbisch in looking at a child care center being built in the community.

“When we determined that no pool was to be built at the Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center, we started looking at the possibility of a childcare center at that location,” Wieseler said.

The city is currently working with OPN Architects to come up with a design of a potential expansion, with roughly five classrooms for childcare being on the first floor, and additional rooms on the second floor being utilized by LBC.

Wieseler said that five classrooms would allow for up to 100 students, depending on age of students served at the childcare center. There have also been discussions with local churches about hosting childcare solutions that would cater to infants and newborns.

“Those conversations have remained positive, so I’m hoping that will help,” Wieseler said.

Wieseler said the waiting lists for childcare in the area are more than 100 at the moment, and building a center is only one step of the solution needed. The other would be staffing a center of that nature.

There have been zero negative comments as the city has looked into this. Wieseler did say the ideal solution would be a third-party building a center, but with that not happening, the city sees this as an important need.

School board president Rick Elliott said the school board has had discussions on this very issue, but are not in a way to build a childcare center financially themselves.

“We know our communities are referred to as a child-

All-State bound

Nathan Countryman

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

Mount Vernon has nine All-State large group nominations this year, five performing and four non-performing. According to head coach Grant Freeman, that ties the school record of All-State nominations received in the past, and 38 students are attending All-State, seven of those performing in multiple events.

“One of the best accomplishments goes to senior Emmett Jordan, who coached the first ever all ninth-grade All-State performing short film,” Freeman said. “There is pride when your students make All-State, but it becomes overwhelming when they coach their own students and

make All-State.”

The team is coached by Grant Freeman, with assistant coaches Tawnua Tenley, Trevor Baty, Mary Horst and Amy White. The Large Group speech festival is at Iowa State University in Ames on Saturday, Feb. 22.

Mount Vernon’s ensemble actings “Hamlet” and “Sports” have performing nominations. Ensemble acting “Sisters” has a non-performing nomination.

“Sports!” starring Skye Rodman, Grant Tucker and Kevin Zehms, takes the stage in Center 4 in the Alumni Building ballroom at 9:17

a.m. “Hamlet” starring Penelope Vig, Megan Teague, Michael Covington, Chester Rood and Violet Olinger takes the stage at 9:51

a.m. Guest critic in Center 4 is Rob Lindley, a Chicago based actor and

director known for Phantom of the Opera.

“Sisters” stars Bella Hasley, Renee Vig, Norah Weber and Emara Perrault.

Mount Vernon’s television newscasting “Backseat News” has a performing nomination this year. “Backseat News” starring Ava Willems, Carly Steen, Cora Smith, Cait O’Connor and Hannah Jones takes the stage in Center 6 (Scheman Rooms 260-262) at 1:18 p.m. Guest critic in Center 6 is Laryssa Leone of Channel 5 WOI.

Mount Vernon’s radio broadcasting WGOV has a performing nomination this year. WGOV starring Will Turner, Hannah Jones and Grace Hale takes the stage at 1:45 p.m. in center 6.

Vernon-Lisbon

Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

Megan Teague, Chester Rood, Penelope Vig, Michael Covington and Juliet Olinger perform the ensemble acting piece “Hamlet” at speech showcase Saturday, Feb. 15.

Mount Vernon’s short film “Zapatrilovaxitalum” has a performing nomination this year. “Zapatrilovaxitalum” starring Andrew Errington, Danny Dye, Beck Oesterle, Everett Marshall and Isaiah Hanson takes the stage in Center 9 (Scheman Room 4) at 2:55

p.m. Guest critic in Center 9 is Alex Mitchell. Short film Pieces of the Past has a non-performing nomination this year. “Pieces of the Past” stars Grant Tucker, Lydia Marshall, Kevin Zehms, Will Turner, Charlie Weldon and Nathan Conrad.

Mount Vernon’s improvisation group of “Hasley/O’Connor and Thuerauf” has a non-performing nomination this year. The group is comprised of Bella Hasley, Natalie Thuerauf and Cait O’Connor.

Mount Vernon has a non-performing nomination for Reader’s Theater “Then I’ll Be Happy.” “Then I’ll Be Happy” stars Summer Bowie Smith, Katie Whitehead, Owen Francois, Ellah Shook, Sarah Sharif, Lydia Marshall, Effie Johnson, Charlotte Hand, Collin Clark and Eva Bishop.

care desert and we need new families in our community, but we won’t see that without more daycare options,” Elliott said. “I think this is something that enhances not only our school, but also our community. “

Superintendent Matt Leeman said that the city would most likely be utilizing the $2 million in tax increment funding they had proposed to the school for a future childcare building if they built the building on their own.

Wieseler said this is a project that could be a short term fix for the community before another fourth building is able to be constructed for the school system in coming years, and the expansion to LBC is items they could repurpose after as well. The city is looking at a number of grant possibilities, and potential fundraising between

private and public entities to make a reality.

Board member Lance Schoff said he is in favor of pursuing what a joint venture between these entities might entail.

“I would prefer the childcare solution would be tackled in the private sector, but that hasn’t proven to be a reality,” Schoff said. “My worry is what if we build a great facility, but we struggle to staff it properly?”

Leeman said that this partnership would help the school by allowing them to have a daycare in the community while they are not fiscally able to build a dedicated new building.

“Getting a childcare center in close proximity to all of our buildings would be a huge win for us,” Leeman said. “The city may keep that $2 million to invest in this project, but if the state passing 4-year-old funded preschool passes, this could be the space that allows us to offer that and work with the city on staffing with a

Cornell presents play as an immersive audio experience

Get ready for a new kind of play as the Cornell Department of Theatre and Dance presents “4.48 Psychosis” as an immersive audio experience Feb. 20–23.

The play, written by Sarah Kane in a stream-of-consciousness style, famously does not come with any character designations or stage directions.

It’s up to each director and cast to interpret the text. For this group of Cornell actors, it’s all about sound.

No actors will be on stage. Instead, the

show will unfold around the audience in a surround-sound audio installation. The audience size will be limited to 50-60 people per show. They’ll enter a sound-isolated environment to experience the piece, and lighting shifts will be the only visual presentation.

“Think listening to a highly-produced podcast, but in a movie theater,” said Shawn Ketchum Johnson, who is directing the show. “The voices, music, and sound will move around and above

properly accredited educator.”

Board member Suzette Kragenbrink said she thinks the city is on the right track with this building they are researching.

“The childcare committee has studied this issue and determined we don’t have enough childcare spaces in the community at this point,” Kragenbrink said. “The fact the city is looking to do this construction is huge.”

Board member Tim Keegan said that partnering on this project will give the school options moving forward.

The city will have a cost estimate from OPN Architects on square footage of the possible addition later this spring to see if this is economically viable. Wieseler said work is also beginning on addressing the housing options in Mount Vernon in the future as well, the second part of the issues plaguing Mount Vernon’s growth.

Contributed photo

Cornell College students record lines for “4.48 Psychosis.”

The play will be presented to limited audience sizes in a surround sound audio installation, with lighting shifts being the only visual presentation.

for additional information. Subscription rates: Linn and adjoining counties – $55 annually; elsewhere in Iowa – $75 annually; out of state – $85 annually.

Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

Left: Summer Bowie Smith, Katie Whitehead, Owen Francois, Ellah Shook, Lydia Marshall, Ellie Johnson, Charlotte Hand, Collin Clark and Eva Bishop perform “Then I’ll be Happy” at the Speech showcase Saturday. Sarah Sharif was in the group but not present at showcase Saturday.

Right: Isabella Hasley, Emara Perrault, Renee Vig and Norah Weber in ensemble acting piece “Sisters” at speech showcase Saturday, Feb. 15.

the audience as the play unfolds. This is an unusual modality, but it’s a way for our students to experience continuing trends in the art world around audio installation exhibits and explore the current audio engineering obsession with spatial audio experiences.”

Tickets can be purchased online and are $15 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, and free to Cornell students, faculty, and staff with their Cornell IDs. The show will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 20–22 and at 2 p.m. on Feb. 23.

“4.48 Psychosis” is a fragmented dream play with a constantly shifting reality. It focuses on an individual who suffers from depression and clinical psychosis, depicting their challenges in domestic life, their constant struggle with suicidal ideation, and their fraught relationship with the mental health care field. The playwright uses her own experiences with these conditions to present this story in a nonlinear, prismatic

way.

This production involves a cast of 18, two audio engineers, one stage manager, and a crew of four—all Cornell students. As an audio installation, the cast captured recordings of all of the text during long sessions of in-studio voice acting, which has been a new experience for most.

“It can be disorienting to be alone in a sound booth, listening to your own voice in your headphones as you deliver lines without a scene partner in sight. But this is exciting, critical experiential training for our students,” said Johnson, who is also a lecturer and technical director at Cornell.

Johnson says he’s proud of the cast and crew for their sensitivity and fierce empathy for the subject matter. Students hope audiences will listen to the message. Here’s what three of them said:

Sky Kieft class of 2028: “This is not a play that’s

J-Term 2025 highlights successes of program

Nathan Countryman

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

Mount Vernon high school principal

Steve Brand presented an update on the J-Term 2025 program at Mount Vernon Schools.

The J-Term is a nine day intensive course of study where students delve into one course for that two week period.

The ninth-grade students have an intensive class that helps guide them on the pillars that make up the Mustang Nation and help them set goals for the rest of their high school experience.

“It comes at the perfect time for those students, where they’ve had a semester of time at high school and encourages them to get involved in more school activities,” Brand said.

Brand said the goal for the courses in

10th through 12th grade is to expose students to the world. That’s done in some cases by having travel opportunities like a class with the Disney Leadership program in Florida, or traveling to other countries. It’s also done with programs that have opportunities for day trips to locations in the Iowa City and Cedar Rapids corridor that go alongside what students are learning.

“The importance is to get students outside of the school building’s four walls and exploring,” Brand said.

Members of the science-fiction class shared a video they had recorded as part of the class, as well as what they learned.

Sarah Sharif said she didn’t know what to expect when it came to J-Term, and her knowledge of science-fiction was just the cool futuristic worlds that it conveyed.

“I have to say I made so many new friends I hadn’t seen in other classes I had,” Sharif said. “I also learned a lot more of the language around science fiction.”

Sharif and students learned that by having a choice of creating either a short film or a science-fiction inspired escape room in the program.

The class was taught by teachers Alaina Appley and Bonnie Ahrens.

Ellah Shook said she took the class because she was excited about the teachers instructing the class.

“It was the most interesting course of the ones offered this J-Term for me,” Shook said. “I was nervous about being part of the film, as I had never done that before. When we started work on that project, I learned a lot about filmmaking and the ability to make something fun and awesome within the limitations we had.”

Andy Morris had originally planned to take part in an internship this year, but that fell through. She missed a few of the first days of the class, but said coming

performed in front of you, rather it’s something you have to focus on listening to. I think this speaks to the community about really listening to what might be going on in someone’s mind and how dangerous not listening could be.”

Elise Zielinski Gutierrez class of 2027: “This play speaks to me as someone who has struggled with mental health issues and feels confirmed by the poetry of the language. I think that this play has the ability to really teach people about empathy with those they may not immediately understand.”

Claudia Collazo class of 2027: “‘4.48 Psychosis’ has the potential to speak to our community, by putting the audience in the shoes of a person that is in a constant battle with their own mind.”

This show is for mature audiences and contains loud sounds, along with discussions and imagery of suicide and mental illness.

Below: Elise Owen and Ellah Shook field questions from the school board.

back to work with the group when she returned and collaborate on making a film was a truly great experience.

“We had to think about things like scene shots and dialogue that we wanted,” Morris said. “It was a unique experience, and something I wish to be able to do again.”

Elise Owen said that teachers Appley and Ahrens had done a good job on splitting these groups of students into teams and took into account the strengths of the students involved.

“I found I really loved the process of making a short film,” Owen said. “I especially loved the process of editing the film after the fact and coming up with the story.”

Owen said that it taught her some skills that she could later apply in life, including time management skills for working within the required deadline of times and adapting to complications to make their filming work.

Brand said that highlighted the goals

for the classes in J-Term overall – to give students real world skills and open their eyes to different opportunities.

Students utilized cell phone cameras to record the movie, and for things like shots that required the camera to move, they used an improvised dolly of a rolling chair to get the effect they were looking for. They also utilized a drone shot for the start of their film, taken at the quarry in Mount Vernon.

One of the challenges for the students was the availability of their chosen main actors in the picture. They only had two filming days, and a set number of hours for the student who was their lead, as she was involved in the escape room project for the class as well.

“We also had to come up with ways to make the props we needed in the movie,” Morris said.

In the end, the students made a two and a half minute short film they were able to present to the school board and other class members.

Early Automotive Company recipient of BE Lisbon Grant

Nathan Countryman

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

Early Automotive Parts in downtown Lisbon was the recipient of this year’s Business Enhancement Lisbon Grant (BE Lisbon).

The business, owned by Luke Krall, has a storefront at 110 East Main Street.

The business operates mainly as a e-commerce retailer selling auto parts and accessories for older vehicles, pri-

marily those built in 1920s through 1950s. Krall noted that the business has operated out of a small backroom in 114 E. Main Street since COVID-19 pandemic. Last year, Krall purchased 110 E. Main Street, a 147 year old business on downtown Lisbon’s Main Street.

The business received a $5,000 grant, which will support a $6,250 initiative for the business.

The grant will help launch a new website for the building, purchase branded shipping materials for the business, help

purchase some new promotional items, complete a new marketing push and purchase new shelving units.

In his application for the grant, Krall said there are also efforts and investment that are going to be put in the business, which has sat vacant in the downtown since 1999.

“The building requires significant repairs and façade improvement,” Krall said. “We are actively addressing those needs through a phased approach.”

He anticipates more than $125,000 will

be spent on the business storefront over the next two years.

Council member Mike Williams asked if the business space will have a traditional Monday through Friday doors open to the public storefront.

Krall said it will still function as a mostly online retail business, but the investment in the storefront will allow an area to show the parts for sale, and long term he is eyeing having weekend hours or being open for special events in downtown Lisbon.

Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

Above: Mount Vernon principal Steve Brand introduces the four students from the science fiction J-Term class to speak about their experiences. Those students include Sarah Sharif and Andy Morris (pictured to the right).

OPINIONS

Say goodbye to the compassionate penny

Living in Iowa

In his autobiography, Ben Franklin describes how, as a naïve young bumpkin, he got off the boat in Philadelphia in 1723, scruffy and hungry. He had a few coins in his pocket but he didn’t know what they would buy in the city. When he asked a baker for three pennies worth of bread, to his astonishment, he was given three huge loaves he could barely carry. Franklin was later known for his homey sayings, including, “A penny saved is a penny earned.”

But a penny won’t get you a loaf of bread in 2025. It won’t even get you a mini Tootsie Roll as when I was a kid. In fact, considering that the average American makes $30 an hour—or two cents per second-- if you dropped a penny, you would lose money by picking it up.

Since a penny actually costs the US Mint 3.7 cents to produce, losing the Treasury $83 million last year alone, Donald Trump is now calling for the humble copper coin to be discontinued. “Let’s rip the waste out of our great national budget,” he said, “even if it’s a penny at a time!”

That sounds terrific except that this would put pressure on the Mint to create more nickels which, ironically, cost them 13.8 cents to make. This would run $78 million more a year than the cost of keeping pennies. (It’s almost as if we can’t afford money.) But not all our currency loses money. A dime only costs six cents to make, a quarter runs about 15 cents and a one-dollar bill is a bargain at 3.2 cents.

Last year, the Mint produced three billion pennies because, for one reason, many do not remain in circulation. They are stuck in drawers or accumulate in jars or just left on the ground like trash. This is not to suggest that pennies are worthless. At various retail stores, the penny is used to perform an act of kindness when the clerk supplies a cent or two from the coin dish if the customer runs short of exact change. Or, often, the customer contributes spare change to the dish to be donated for the convenience of other customers.

Spare change can add up to real help for those in need as coins accumulate in charity boxes on retail counters. The organization My Charity Boxes reports that one such box can bring in $40-$50 a week. Ten boxes spread around town can make around $30,000 a year, used to feed hungry children or fund medical research. Eliminating the penny in the misplaced expectation of reducing the federal budget could hurt those who have little other means of support. Brazil, Australia and Canada are among those countries that have discontinued their one and two-cent coins. The American penny has been around for 233 years. It’s had a good run. Our beloved penny deserves a proper send-off this year. I’m sure it’s no disrespect that National One Cent Day falls on the same day as April Fool’s Day.

SUN EDITORIAL

Speech, childcare and a few odds and ends

Congratulations again to the speech programs at Mount Vernon and Lisbon on a successful large group speech season. Mount Vernon’s programs success has included nine All-state nominations this season, tying a school record. The small but mighty Lisbon program had four groups who earned Division I ratings at the state contest. Both programs are setting students up for a world where they are tackling one of the world’s greatest fear inducing categories – speaking in public.

We also have to say that it was great to sit through a discussion between Mount Vernon School Board and mayor Tom Wieseler about the next endeavor the city is investigating – childcare solutions in Mount Vernon. Like others on the school board, we know the solution isn’t as simple as building a center in the long run, but investigating if that is a viable option to move forward and beginning discussions if things like full day 4-year-old preschool become an option at the legislature this year, having daycares for lower aged children or even additional classrooms for those preschool aged children will be beneficial to the community in coming years. Like the mayor said, it’s one part of a multi pronged issue for the community to adequately address, and at least continuing to have these discussions and reaffirmations that everyone

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Concerned about cuts at federal level

I am extremely concerned about the Administration’s actions and plans to eliminate several governmental agencies and to cut funding for others.

Should we be reducing medical research? Elon Musk plans a $4 billion reduction that would eliminate the infrastructure necessary for research funded by the National Institutes of Health. As a person with several chronic health conditions I’m very concerned about these cuts and what they will mean for me and those I care about.

Is 1% of the federal budget too much for humanitarian assistance provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). I think our country can afford at least a small amount of compassion for those who are facing drought or fleeing political violence in other parts of the world. Musk’s actions to eliminate or sharply reduce USAID will hurt American farmers who produce USAID’s food assistance and will help China it its battle for hearts and minds in the Middle East and Africa. I strongly feel cutting USAID is the wrong course of action.

Are there too many protections for consumers? I think not, but recent actions show the administration does not agree. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has been ordered to stop work and its director has been fired. The CFPB was formed in the aftermath of the recession of 2008 to protect Americans from financial scams and dodgy practices. I think we still need these protections so all of us can feel safer in our financial transactions. As a retiree on a fixed income, I know I can’t afford any risk to my finances.

If you feel as concerned as I am about these actions, I urge you join me and be in touch with your elected representatives to express your thoughts and feelings on these actions that bypass Congress and will hurt Americans and our country’s standing in the world.

Suzette Astley Mount Vernon

Executive order overload

Democrats did it, and now this Republican administration has made executive orders the main way

is on the correct path is appreciated. As to growing programs, Lisbon’s Booster Club supporting the purchase of weight room equipment with the school district is huge. Like superintendent Autumn Pino noted, that’s equipment that gets utilized by more than 80 percent of the high school students, not just student athletes. It’s a benefit to the entire school to have equipment that will better be used in Lisbon and not damaging the new weight room floor, giving longevity to both equipment and floors to come.

Rehashing some bullet points of a November editorial about the Physical Plant and Equipment Levy vote coming up in a few weeks for Lisbon –

• It’s not a new tax for the Lisbon School Systems. It’s extending the use of a levy rate that the district started more than a decade ago and actively uses. No tax rates are increasing.

• Continuing PPEL allows schools to have funding streams that are used for the maintenance of buildings and not tapping into the general fund, as those dollars remain tighter due to the state’s funding being anemic in the past several years.

• Projects tackled via PPEL include bus purchases and repairs to items like boilers and other unexpected expenses that pop up.

to govern us. Each day more orders are given. I am now to say Gulf of America. The Anti-Christian bias I don’t remember experiencing is now – and was –forbidden. Accomplished women of NASA have been insulted. So many more – you know the orders. Will there be an order to buy and control Gaza, to absorb Greenland, to make Canada our 51st state? And tariffs – sometimes one, then off, but more coming.

Sometimes I am confused. Which actions taken by the President and which by Elon Musk? I know Musk is sending whole agencies to “the wood chipper.” For instance, AID (Agency for International Development). Reagan once called it Food for Peace. The Consumer Protection Bureau, FEMA and Department of education are probably also headed to that chipper.

It’s not that I believe there is no waste in government. I’m sure there is plenty. But is this the best way to find and reduce it? I hope Senators and Congress will reclaim their powers outlined in the Constitution.

Well, that’s my opinion; what is yours?

Support Ace Hardware

The helpful hospitality at Ace Hardware in Mount Vernon is refreshing and an asset to our community. On February 6, I entered and was met as usual with a cheery greeting. With no delay, Kathy listened as I explained my need for a box...24 by 24 by 7 inches... so Julie could ship pottery tools to a fellow potter in Mississippi. She walked me to the box aisle and we found a suitable but not perfect box for $5.49. Then she said she had another idea.

She measured a box which had arrived at the store containing the Burpee’s seed rack. It was perfect. Together we removed the rack and I was on my way with a free box and best wishes for a great day. Let’s shop at Ace Hardware and keep this hometown hardware convenience for the next generation.

Sharon Hill Mount Vernon

Marvin Knoot Mount Vernon

Attorney General warns Iowans of jury duty scams

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird today warned Iowans about an increase in jury duty scams.

In a jury duty scam, a con artist calls Iowans, falsely claiming to be law enforcement and accusing them of missing jury duty. The scammer will then use threats of arrest or extreme fines to scare and trick them into sending money.

A central Iowa woman received a voicemail saying that she needed to call back because there was a civil case against her. When she returned the call, her phone’s caller ID showed she was contacting the “Polk County Sheriff’s Office.” In reality, she was talking to a scammer. The scammer claimed that he had receipts of when her jury summons had been delivered and asked why she was not there.

The woman became suspicious when the scammer used her maiden name—which changed five years ago— and began asking questions. The scammer hung up to “look into” the error and said that he would call the woman back. During that time, she searched the official number for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and realized that it did not match the number that called her. She confronted the scammer when he called back. He imme -

diately pressured the woman by threatening to detain her and telling her that she will need to pay fines as part of the “civil process.” The woman hung up the phone and reported the scam to the Iowa Attorney General’s office.

“If something doesn’t seem right, be on guard,” said Bird. “Con artists are deeply manipulative. They will twist anything and everything to swindle Iowans—even going as far as to impersonate law enforcement or turn a civic duty into a scare tactic. It is so important to always double check and never send money over the phone. Any Iowan suspicious of a scam should contact my office 1-888-777-4590.”

“My staff will never call and request money to avoid getting in trouble,” said Polk County Sheriff Kevin Schneider. “This scam, and others like it, have been victimizing people not just in Polk County but around the state. I want to encourage citizens to pay attention to these tips. Remember, law enforcement will never call and request money for missing jury duty or any other legal matter.”

Attorney General Bird released the following tips for Iowans to protect themselves from jury duty scams:

• Know How Jury Duty Works: If you miss jury

Linn County Veteran Services open to serve veterans

The Department of Veteran Affairs at the federal level recently announced the dismissal of more than 1,000 employees. This dismissal does not impact Linn County Veteran Services.

Linn County Veteran Services is open and ready to connect veterans to their benefits. Veterans should

make an appointment before visiting Linn County Veteran Services to ensure each veteran brings the appropriate paperwork and documents needed for services, potentially saving an extra trip to the office. All services are provided free of charge.

Linn County Veteran Services helps veterans, their

duty in Iowa, you will receive an official notice by mail, not by phone or email.

• Never Send Money or Personal Information Over the Phone: If someone is pressuring you to send money, it’s a scam. Law enforcement will not ask someone to send money over the phone.

• Beware of Spoofed Phone Numbers: If you are suspicious of a call, hang up and call back at an official and verified number you found yourself. Do not call a number the scammer provides.

• Double Check: If something does not seem right, double check. Contact the Iowa Attorney General’s office or law enforcement to verify the call.

• Avoid Pressures to Act Immediately: Scammers will always try to get you to act quickly. Beware of anyone pressuring you to act urgently.

• Be Cautious of Anyone Asking to Keep it a Secret: Scammers will usually tell you to keep the conversation a secret. That is a major red flag of a scam.

Any Iowan who is suspicious of a jury duty scam should immediately contact the Iowa Attorney General’s Office at 1-888-777-4590 or online at https://www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/for-consumers/file-a-consumer-complaint.

dependents, and survivors apply for federal, state, and local benefits. The staff of accredited County Veteran Service Officers (CVSOs) act as advocates who share an understanding of the veteran’s service and their needs and works with the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs and other organizations to help veterans and their eligible family members receive the maximum benefits they have rightfully earned. In addition, Linn County Veteran Services will be hiring another CVSO this spring to better serve local veterans. Visit LinnCountyIowa.gov/Veteran for a full list of services provided by Linn County and to sign up for the Veteran Services quarterly eNewsletter. For questions or to make an appointment, contact Linn County Veteran Services at 319-892-5160 or email Veteran@LinnCountyIowa.gov.

Cornell’s One Course Summer Institute June 15 through July 2

Cornell’s One Course Summer Institute June 15 through July 2

This summer, Cornell College is excited to host the One Course Summer Institute (OCSI) from June 15–July 2, offering high school students the chance to dive into a class of their choice and earn college credit.

This year, Cornell professors will be offering nine compelling courses.

“We can’t wait to see what the next group of OCSI scholars will achieve in these courses,” said OCSI organizer and Lecturer in the Department of Kinesiology Frannie Malone. “Working with our Cornell professors, we’ve put together a variety of classes so students can explore a topic that sparks their interest. These courses will challenge and inspire them.”

Online registration is open now (cornellcollege.edu/ ocsi), and rising juniors or seniors by June 2025, or 2025 high school graduates, are eligible for the 2.5week program. Students will learn alongside peers from across the country, discover the distinctive One Course At A Time schedule, and explore what life is

Farm

like on our Hilltop campus.

Students will also:

● Earn 3 college credit hours (can be applied to Cornell or another college)

● Participate in college prep workshops

● Earn a $2,000 Cornell scholarship, awarded $500 annually

● Enjoy campus activities and outings with peers

● Live on campus and get a feel for a residence hall and Hilltop dining

Cornell associate professor of psychology Steven Neese teaches courses in neuroscience during the academic year and has taught the OCSI course 17 Day Later: Zombies, Brains, and Basic Neuroscience since the summer of 2019. The course focuses on using Hollywood “slow zombies” to understand the living brain. By the end of the program, students say, “I can do this!”

“Students learn all about how to organize notes for college-level work, how to integrate readings and data from class activities to develop critical thinking skills, and also learn how to balance work and fun on a col-

lege campus,” Neese said. “Overall, students will learn that, with a little bit of adjustment, college success can be theirs!”

Full list of classes:

● 17 Days Later: Zombies, Brains, and Basic Neuroscience

● Programming Apps in Python

● Video Games and Storytelling

● Reinventing the Camera: Photography & Fabrication

● Chemistry and the Kitchen: Should We Be Wearing Goggles?

● Movement by the Numbers: Fitness, Sport Skills, & Statistics

● Musical Theatre: Study and Performance

● The Secret Lives of Cells

● From Math to Money: Understanding Personal Finance

Registration for OCSI is open through June 1. Questions about the registration process? Please email the program director at ocsi@cornellcollege.edu

Credit Services of America returns $5.5 million in cash-back dividends to farmers in Benton, Iowa, Johnson, Jones and Linn Counties

Farmers and ranchers in Benton, Iowa, Johnson, Jones and Linn counties will be receiving $5.5 million in cashback dividends returned by Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica) as part of the financial cooperative’s patronage program, paying 1% back as a cash-back dividend. Eligible customer-owners were issued cashback dividend checks the last week of January.

“At FCSAmerica, our commitment to agriculture runs deep,” said Jim Knuth, senior vice president of lending in Iowa. “By returning cash-back dividends to our customer-owners, we effectively lower their cost of borrowing while also helping farmers and ranchers reinvest in their

operations, families and communities. It’s a tangible way we honor the hard work and resilience of those who drive rural America forward.”

2025 Cash-Back Dividends Distribution

This year’s cash-back dividend is equal to 100 basis points — or a return of 1% of a customer’s eligible average daily loan balance with FCSAmerica. The 2025 payout equates to the following county-level distributions:*

• $917,000 in Benton County.

• $801,000 in Iowa County.

• $1.1 million in Johnson County.

• $979,000 in Jones County.

• $1.7 million in Linn County.

*Amounts are rounded.

Payout data for every county in Iowa is available on the 2025 Iowa Cash-Back Dividends Distribution Map. The Board of Directors for FCSAmerica has also approved a cash-back dividend to be paid from the cooperative’s 2025 net earnings, the amount of which will be determined in December. Since 2004, FCSAmerica has offered a patronage program and shared its success in the form of cash-back dividends. The cooperative has now returned $1.47 billion to farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses in Iowa.

Nathan Countryman Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

First public hearing on school budget slated for March 24

Business manager Michael Marshall outlined the process for certifying the budget for fiscal year 2026 for the district.

The board will publish their first budgets Thursday, March 13, in local newspapers. Linn County will begin mailing out official tax statements March 15.

The first public hearing on the budget will be held March 24 at the regular Mount Vernon School Board meeting.

Another public hearing will be held at the April 14 school board meeting, with final deadline for approval slated for April 30.

Marshall said that he is planning a budget to reflect at a minimum a 2 percent supplemental aid from the state government. There is talk right now in the legislature that aid could be higher, but the governor has been on record she wants a 2 percent allowable growth.

This year’s debt service levy reflects that the district has paid off general obligation bonds taken out in 2012, but has general obligation bonds from 2018 and 2019 still on the books.

The district will publish the highest proposed property tax they anticipate levying for any publications. That rate may change to be lower, but it can not increase higher.

Rollback on assessed values of properties is set by the state, while valuation of properties is set by the county. Flowthrough dollars for AEA will also be increased this year, with the district receiving more of that money.

Linn County Supervisor Ben Rogers resigning in April

District 2 Linn County Supervisor Ben Rogers submitted his letter of resignation to Linn County Auditor Todd Taylor. His resignation will be effective April 1, 2025. He will begin a new position with UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s Foundation.

Rogers has served on the Linn County Board of Supervisors since January 2009. During his tenure, Rogers played a key role in the recovery and rebuilding efforts after the 2008 flood and helped lead the County’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 derecho. Rogers was instrumental in the creation of the Linn County Mental Health Access Center, the Winter Weather Overflow Shelter for the homeless, approving utility-scale solar projects, and appropriating $44 million in American Rescue Plan Act dollars throughout the community.

Rogers has been a passionate advocate for reducing

Any excess dollars not spent to the AEA will flow into the general funds.

MV middle school soccer sanctioned

The Mount Vernon middle school program will be sanctioned this year as an official sport for middle school, with two coaches at the middle school level being added for this year.

Superintendent Matt Leeman said that the maximum expected to pay for the sport this year is $10,000, and the district will draw on gates and concession stand sales for three home contests to help offset the costs. Teachers are aware the expenditure for the program comes from the general fund, and many noted the signed petition for sanctioning the sport

Rich Lewis, one of the volunteer soccer coaches, said that practices usually happen in fields around the middle school for the teams, and they use gym space as it is available for any indoor practices. Games will be played at the Mustang Activities Complex.

The board unanimously approved the sanctioning of the sport for middle school and advertising for the middle school coaching positions will begin ahead of this year’s season starting.

New projector purchased for PAC

The district also approved the purchase of a rear mounted projector to be used in the Performing Arts Center for $22,850. The Mount Vernon Fine Arts Association will pay for the purchase of the projector, but the district is covering the upfront cost at the moment.

The district has been renting a projector from an individual to use for a number of shows over the past few years, a piece of equipment that was not originally included in the purchase of the PAC.

the stigma surrounding mental health and substance use disorders while improving the quality of life for all Linn County residents, especially among the community’s most vulnerable.

Rogers expressed gratitude to the voters of Linn County and the Board of Supervisors for the opportunity to serve. “I am deeply grateful to the voters of Linn County and my colleagues on the Board of Supervisors over the years for the opportunity to serve the community where I was born and where I am raising my family. I cannot fully express my appreciation for the privilege of representing and working with the incredible people of Linn County. If my life were a book, I would dedicate many chapters to this community and the remarkable individuals I’ve had the honor to work with. I look forward to the new chapters yet to be written.”

Iowa Code 69.14A outlines the procedure for filling a vacancy of an elected county officer. The position can be filled by special election or by appointment. Per Iowa Code, the county Auditor, Recorder, and Treasurer are responsible for determining whether to appoint a replacement or to hold a special election. Linn County Auditor Todd Taylor, Recorder Carolyn Siebrecht, and Treasurer Brent Oleson will meet to determine how to fill the vacancy. The District 2 Supervisor seat is up for election in November 2026.

School calendar approved

With a minor correction of one professional development day, the school calendar for Mount Vernon Schools for the 2025-26 school year was approved.

The correction for the school calendar was shifting a proposed teacher development day slated for Friday, Feb. 20 to instead happen on Monday, Feb. 16 instead. Feb. 16 is the President’s Day holiday in 2026, and overlaps with a day some people have off.

Discussion by the school board pertained to why the calendar is not synced to include Cornell College’s spring break. Currently, the spring break coincides with the dates of spring break for Kirkwood Community College and the Regents universities in the state. Board member Suzette Kragenbrink said aligning with Kirkwood’s spring break was beneficial for students enrolled in Kirkwood classes, as that would provide a greater hardship to students to have instructional days during a break period.

Another concern was the early out days as an inconvenience for parents lining up childcare.

Superintendent Matt Leeman said that the teachers union was aware of those concerns and utilizied a mix of early outs and full days off to meet the needed professional development days for staff.

“We understand the early outs do provide a challenge and hardship for ur families, but it also provides more opportunities for our staff.”

Open enrollment deadline is March 1

The open enrollment dates for school districts have changed. Instead of an open-ended date to open enroll students in another school district, the deadline to open enroll students for the 2025-26 school year is now back to March 1. Kindergarten students have until Sept. 1 to open enroll into a district.

Robert Bernard (“BobBull Dog”) Brown who was a Christian, passed peacefully to heaven after a valiant battle with lung disease on February 6, 2025, with his closest family members and friends by his side praying over him as he left his earthly life behind to enter his eternity in Heaven. He was born March 31, 1955 in Anamosa Iowa to Roland and Lois (Rowe) Brown, he was the 5th of 6 children. He graduated from Anamosa High School in 1974. He worked in the construction field until 1987, when he started his own construction and remodel company - Hawkeye Siding Inc. He managed the company until he retired.

Bob was a family man, dedicated father, grandfather and friend. He loved his children, but it was his 3 grandchildren who truly stole his heart. He was an avid sports enthusiast and loved Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears. He also enjoyed traveling, playing golf, riding his Harleys and boating. Bob also enjoyed spending time with friends and was a very active member in the Lisbon community.

Bob will always be remembered with love by his three children Kasey & (Sarah) Brown of Wilmington, N.C., Jesse Brown of Lisbon, and Danaisa Brown of Ankeny; His three grandchildren CJ, Weston and Karmen; His brothers Harry, Russ, Jeff Brown and a sister Joyce Willms, sister in-law Angela Brown, and his ex-wife Cat Brown. Many nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his father Roland, mother Lois and brother William (Bill).

A celebration of life is being planned for this July at Baxa’s Sutliff Store.

Bessie “Bess” M. Telecky, 90, of Mount Vernon, Iowa, passed away peacefully Friday, Jan.y 31, 2025, at Hallmark Care Center, Mount Vernon.

Bess was born at home Nov. 10, 1934, daughter of Frank and Bessie (Marousek) Koutny. After attending a one room rural school near her family’s farm by Ely, she attended and graduated from Mt Vernon High School in 1952. Bess married the love of her life, James “Jim” Telecky, on August 21, 1954. They were blessed with “four wonderful daughters” as often quoted by Bess, and were married for 70 years.

Bess took great pride in taking care of her family and home. She loved baking, sewing, crafting, golfing, watching birds, working with flowers, helping at her church, dancing, bargain shopping for others, hosting family gatherings, playing bingo and setting up Easter egg hunts with her grandchildren, to name a few.

Bessie knew it was more blessed to give than to receive. She was a beautiful soul who would try to help and bring joy to anyone she met. She loved sharing hugs, homemade pies/kolaches, or her homemade crosses. You never left her without taking something home with you.

She is survived by her husband, Jim; daughters, Victoria (Sterling) Young, Rebecca Wilcox, Deborah (David) Blythe, and Teresa (Bruce) Squires; grandchildren, Nicole (Brett) Eidahl, Brandon (Stephanie) Young, Travis (Laura) Young, Ben (Katie) Wilcox, Kristen (Justin) Carpenter, Jennifer (Brian) Mertes, Erin (Seth) Schaller, Brooke (Nathon) Logue, and Dustin (Natasha) Smith; 24 great grandchildren; siblings, Edward (Marcella) Koutny and Betty Buresh; and many more loving family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son-in-law, Gary Wilcox; and brother-in-law, Dale Buresh. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

The Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, February, 24, 2025, at Solon United Methodist Church. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service. A private family inurnment will take place afterwards at the Rogers Grove Cemetery.

Those unable to attend are invited to watch the service via livestream. Please find the livestream link on Bessie’s Tribute Wall and share your support and memories with her family at www.stewartbaxter.com under Obituaries.

Feb. 10 – Medical, 900 blk W. Main St, Lisbon

Feb. 10 – Fraud, 400 blk business 30 SW, Mount Vernon

Feb. 10 – Medical, 300 blk First Ave NE, Mount Vernon

Feb. 10 – Welfare check, 100 blk Third St

TTT Chapter EW

The Mount Vernon/Lisbon TTT Chapter met February 10 at Mount Vernon Bank. President Sonia Redmond called the meeting to order with 6 members present. We are making plans to send four to five girls from Mt. Vernon and Lisbon Elementary Schools to Camp Bear Creek near Wyoming this summer. We are also offering scholarships to past campers who are graduating high school this spring. Information was shared regarding the State TTT Convention being held in Burlington this April. Our next chapter meeting will be held March 10.

STUDENT BRIEFS

Drake University president’s list

Fiona Spencer of Lisbon was named to the president’s list of Drake University for the fall 2024 semester. To be named to the president’s list, students must maintain a GPA of 4.0 or above.

Iowa State University dean’s list

More than 11,500 Iowa State University students have been recognized for outstanding academic achievement by being named to the fall semester 2024 dean’s list. Students named to the dean’s list must earn a GPA of at least 3.5.

Local students on the list include:

Lisbon - Vance Arnold, Benjamin Jubeck, Maxi mus Kohl, Maeve Krogmann, Ryne Moeller, Ryan Ross, Allie Silver, Martelle - Ivan Lambertsen, Mechanicsville - Brayden Kreel, Emma Moore, Mount Vernon - Milo Ashbacker, Kameron Brand, Michael Briesemeister, Dausener, Elizabeth Dougherty, ver Hinrichs, Alexa Hupfeld, Moellering, Klayten Perreault, enzie Rentschler, Jacob Russell, Stanwood - Marty McAtee

Kirkwood Community College dean’s list

Kirkwood Community College has released its dean’s list for the fall 2024 semester. Students must obtain a GPA of 3.3 or above to be named to the list.

Locals named to the dean’s list include:

Lisbon - Will Bennett, Keira Bergmann, sie Bixler, Brayden Boots, Kaden Caspers, Clark, Evan Coleman, Brynn Epperly, Tony Ervin, ner Frank, Addy Happel, Kaitlynn Hasselbusch, Nicole Hasselbusch, Amber Herboldsheimer, Joe Hrabak, Charlie Hunter, Morgan Kelley, Jayna Koffron, Kohl, Mason Lehmer, Logan Lighthall, Tyler Lind, Long, Kia McNeal, Milla Miller, Jenna Morgan, Brenda Morillo, Aiden Morrill, Mullis, Kayla Ries, Hunter Rottman, ledge, Tyler Sauser, Kaitlyn Silver, Thurn, Adeline Whisner, Mya Whittenbaugh, Wollum, Grayson Wollum, Renae Woods, Martelle - Harlan Ellis Mechanicsville - Mercedes Brown, Jessica Ehresman, Bella Feaker, Mayson Lehrman, McFarlane, Regan Nebergall, Weber, Elijah Weber, Mount Vernon - Lily Amthauer, Aaron Bellamy, Kendall Bloomfield, Valjot Boyal, Ollie Caszatt, Libby Dix, Meg Dye, Lance Eriksen, Alex Fencl, Oliver Gardner, Elena Gehrke, Mira Gehrke, Mundo Guardado Alfaro, Maddalen Hall, Rachel Harken, McKayla Hartl, Bella Hasley, Jake Haugse, Olivia Haverback, Polly Hinrichs, Emma Hoffman, Jordan Holtz, Gage Holub, Sarah Homrighausen, Caelan Hunter, Marquez Ireland, Eryn Jackson, Emrie Johnson, Zoey Jones, Kelsey Kamerling, Lainey Kelly, Josey Kosman, Betsy Louwagie, Selah Loyd, Brynn Lynner, Chloe Meester, Emma Meester, Abbie Moss, Connor Myers, Brody Nosek, Grady Olberding, Elsie Owen, Roy Owen, Jorie Randall, Joey Recalde, Tait Rentschler, Kael Riniker, Korah Jo Robinson, Jaden Rolland, Madison Schnipkoweit Sam Schoff, Jesse Schwiebert, Jack Simmons, Mollie Snedden, Kara Swantz, Kiersten Swart, Penelope Vig, Renee Vig, Stanwood - Aleah Carnes, Olivia Carr, Hazel Giebelstein, Ellie Hahn, Josh Howland, Jamieson Jones.

Cole Corner

Cathy Boggs Cole Library

Academy Award nominated movies

start arriving at Cole

The buzz has begun about the 97th Academy Awards. At Cole Library we are rolling out the red carpet to welcome the Academy Award nominated movies for 2025. The titles below have been purchased and are available at Cole Library. The other nominated movies will be

SW, Mount Vernon

When the winners have been announced we will place an Oscar statuette sticker on the front of each case and have them on display so you can easily find them. Remember if an item is currently checked out

Thursday, February 20: 8am-10pm Friday, February 21: 8am-5pm Saturday, February 22: 10am-4pm Sunday, February 23: 12pm-10pm Monday, February 24: 8am-10pm

Tuesday, February 25: 8am-10pm

Feb. 12 – Medical, 200 blk E First Ave, Mount Vernon

Feb. 13 – Accident, 100 blk First St NW, Mount Vernon

Feb. 13 – Medical, 300 blk E. South St, Lisbon

Feb. 13 – Medical, 200 blk First Ave,

Come discuss ranked choice voting

All members of the community are invited to attend a “Learn with the League” event Wednesday, Feb. 26 at the Mount Vernon City Hall, 213 1st St NW at 6:30 to 8 p.m. The event is hosted by the Mount Vernon-Lisbon unit of the League of Women Voters of Linn County.

Speaker:

• Kehry Lane from Better Ballot Iowa will lead a discussion about Ranked Choice Voting.

Better Ballot Iowa is a political movement bringing together voters across the political spectrum (Republicans, Democrats, Independents and 3rd Party) around systemic reforms to make our political life more positive, constructive and productive. Better Ballot Iowa is an Iowan-founded, Iowan-led grassroots nonprofit organization. Better Ballot Iowa Join the conversation to bring better politics to Iowa.

Learn with the League sessions are organized by the League of Women Voters Linn County as part of its mission to inform and empower voters.

100 blk Third St NE, Mount Vernon

Feb. 14 – Alarm, 300 blk S. Hwy 1, Mount Vernon

Feb. 15 – Disturbance, 100 blk S. Hwy 1, Mount Vernon

Feb. 15 – Juvenile issue, 300 blk Third St NW, Mount Vernon

Feb. 15 – Animal control, 200 blk S. Washington St, Lisbon

Feb. 15 – Medical, 900 blk W. Main St, Lisbon

Feb. 16 – Medical, 600 blk First St SW, Mount Vernon

Feb. 16 – Motorist assist, Hwy 30, Mount Vernon

Robert Brown

Bessie Telecky

Lisbon Boosters help purchase new weight room equipment

Nathan Countryman

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

The Lisbon Boosters club helped purchase new equipment for Lisbon’s weight room, agreeing to pay roughly 50 percent of the cost for the new weights.

The new equipment was something that was value engineered out of the Lisbon new weight room and career and technical education project early on in the process.

Superintendent Autumn Pino said that the flooring company who installed the new weight room flooring recommended updating the weight room equipment to prolong the gym floor.

“It’s one of those areas that our weight room gets used a lot, by more than 80 percent of our student body,” Pino said. “It’s part of our physical education and wellness system.”

Pino said the support from the boosters to help

Lisbon hiring assistant FFA position

Nathan Countryman Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

Lisbon will be hiring an assistant Future Farmers of America instructor.

Lisbon and Springville Schools currently share an

purchase this equipment is a great investment since it touches so many live in Lisbon.

“The equipment we’re looking at also compliments the new addition very well,” said board member John Baker.

Pino said the work of Brandon Horman with the Boosters Club, as well as managing the concessions funds conservatively have helped the district to be able to manage the purchase of this new equipment for the space.

“We’ve been sitting on a healthy fund for the concessions stand for several months now, and knew that a portion of those proceeds would be used to help with this purchase,” Pino said.

The Booster Club agreed to help with 50 percent of the costs of the new weight room. The weight room

Board member Allan Mallie asked what would happen to the old weights.

Pino said the school could sell the weights via sealed bids.

instructor for their FFA program. Part of the stipulation of the contract of sharing the teacher for FFA programs, superintendent Autumn Pino said, was that an assistant instructor was hired.

The role would be paid via stipend instead of hourly, as there are times during fairs or contests that students participate in that the person would need to be assisting the instructor more than on a week to week level of hours.

“It’s a lot more running and supporting the current teacher, especially at events, as opposed to leading or teaching students,” Pino said. “Just having an extra adult supervising students is beneficial.”

Pino said that instructor Mikayla Larsen has said as she has gotten used to this year of working with students in both Springville and Lisbon she has a better idea of when that additional help would be most beneficial to students.

The position will be advertised in coming weeks.

Board member John Prasil said that the sooner a person is found for the role is better.

“Especially with how many projects that FFA students get involved in,” Prasil said.

Linn County Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program Ending Soon

Linn County Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program Ending Soon

Linn County ERA 2 funds allocated to the County through the federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) are running low and residents in need of rent assistance should submit their applications as soon as possible to take advantage of this one-time funding. Applications for ERAP close February 21.

To learn more about ERAP or apply for assistance, contact Waypoint by phone at 319-366-7999 or via email at coordinatedentry2@gmail.com. Waypoint staff will connect applicants to the application. Due to exceptionally high demand for funding, the wait for a decision on an application for assistance could be up to 4-6 weeks, and funding is limited. Applying for assistance does not guarantee an applicant will receive funding. Applicants waiting for a decision are encouraged to work on a self-resolution plan in the event funding is unavailable and communicate their situation with their landlord and/ or utility provider.

A self-resolution plan may include:

• Talking to your landlord to notify them of your

situation and ask for extra time to pay rent or to set up a payment plan for any rent that is due.

• Paying what you can for this month, even if it is not the full amount.

• Reaching out to friends/family for assistance. It can be tough to ask, but reaching out for help could make a difference.

• Asking your employer if a pay advance is possible.

• Identifying ways to supplement income this month.

Linn County initially received $3 million to help address housing instability through the federal rent assistance program. Through a partnership with Waypoint Services, Linn County has already supported over 525 households, not just by covering past-due rent but by connecting residents to longterm stability resources.

Since the pandemic’s onset in 2020, ERAP funds have been a lifeline for many facing housing challenges. As this valuable program comes to a close, Linn County remains committed to helping as many households as possible with the remaining funds and connecting applicants to local programs where additional financial assistance may be available.

Lisbon board participates in Day on the Hill

Lisbon board members participated in Iowa Association of School Board’s Legislative Day on the Hill.

Board member Robyn Richey said that the day was a much more positive experience than it was last year, where the Area Education Agency bill had been announced prior to that day on the hill.

“I felt people were willing to have a conversation this year on issues we were worried about,” Richey said. “I really appreciate Rep. Cindy Golding’s willingness to meet with us and have a long conversation about our concerns.”

Board member John Prasil said the big issue for him is State Supplemental Aid being capped at 2 percent by Governor Kim Reynolds.

“I think that the legislators have a fight on their hands to get that passed,” Prasil said. “Because enough state representatives know it is not enough for districts. We’ll see how that fight comes out.”

Superintendent Autumn Pino said they were unable to meet with Sen. Charlie McClintock this year, but have had conversations with him in the past.

“I feel good we did our part to advocate for what schools need,” Pino said.

Students now utilizing CTE shop, classroom spaces

Aside from some punch list items that need to be completed on the project, Lisbon’s career and technical education classroom wing and the Lisbon weight room and renovated Lion’s Den lobby entrances have been completed.

The parking lot near Lisbon Early Childcare Center’s west entrance will remain closed for the remainder of this school year, as curbs need to be backfilled and no salt can be utilized on the new concrete of that space.

One of the areas that has gotten compliments in the community has been the revamped lobby space.

“We’ve received a lot of nice feedback on how open and airy that new lobby space is for the Lion’s Den, which was the goal,” superintendent Autumn Pino said.

Updates to board policies made

The board also approved minor language changes to the 100 and 200 series of bills for their Code. A lot of the language was removing references to names and back to the position itself responsible for the changes.

Next board meeting

The Lisbon school boards next meeting will be Thursday, March 6 at 5:30 p.m. at the Lisbon Pride Room.

Lisbon’s PPEL vote coming up March 4

Nathan Countryman

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

Lisbon School District will have a special election Tuesday, March 4, to renew their Physical Plant and Equipment Levy.

Superintendent Autumn Pino reminded that the renewal of the PPEL is not a new tax for the district nor an increase to tax for the district, it’s continuation of a levy the district has in place and utilizes for a number of projects in the district.

Postcards are being made to mail out to those who reside in the Lisbon School District about the upcoming election.

Teachers said that having reminders at the upcoming parent-teacher conferences is not a bad idea, and board member Robyn Richey said placing a reminder on the doors into the buildings would be an ideal reminder as well.

“People can forget if there aren’t constant reminders,” Richey said.

Rail car deliveries happening in Lisbon

Global Water Services, L.L.C.

Nathan Countryman Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

For the first time in almost 50 years, Lisbon has had a delivery made via rail.

Global Water Services, L.L.C., based out of Lisbon, had their first order of water softener salt made the week of Feb. 10.

According to owner Keith Huebner, once a rail car has made a delivery, a business has 48 hours to unload a car.

Huebner expects that salt deliveries will be made every four to six weeks, with a 50-car target for 2025.

“Our next goal is to expand to transload of containers we receive from overseas,

with origins in France, China, Germany and throughout the European and Asia Pacific region,” Huebner said.

Global Water Services is also working with other companies in the area, like M and K Dust Control, to help streamline operations and have more rail cars delivering orders here versus elsewhere in Eastern Iowa.

“Like us, this reduces the impact of truck miles and drive time in getting raw product to our facilities,” Huebner said.

Huebner said that having orders delivered by rail is 65 percent less than getting deliveries by truck.

“I’ve been looking at this locally since we acquired the property from Linn Co-op,

and this was the reason we were interested in the property,” Huebner said. “Lisbon has been Industrial business friendly so we knew we could look to expand operations here.”

Huebner said that they are also looking at rail options for their industrial water rental fleet.

“A majority of our clients are serviced by rail and railroad reduces our deployment costs, lowers the impact of transportation on the environment, and allows us to deploy larger systems than is feasible or

economical by truck,” Huebner said.

Global Water Services LLC is a service company that provides water treatment equipment consulting, service, sales, and rental operations that span the Globe.

The business has expanded locally with the addition of Endurance Truck and Equipment, LLC in Mount Vernon which services the company’s fleet of four smaller service vehicles, three tractor trailer power units, and 40+ semi-trailer mounted mobile water treatment units along with a variety of powered support equipment.

Above: A worker with Global Water Services, L.L.C. uses a BearCat to unload pallets of water softener salt from a rail car at Lisbon. Global Water Services, L.L.C. will be ramping up deliveries via rail the rest of the year and working with area businesses to have stops delivered closer to Mount Vernon and Lisbon.

Right: Workers have two days to unload a rail car of it’s contents before Union Pacific will pick it up again.

Photos by Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

Local

WEDDING VENUES

Palmer House Stable - Solon

Timber Dome Lodge - Solon

The Celebration Farm - Iowa City

The Midnight Gem -Swisher Cedar Ridge - Swisher

Tin Roof Hideaway - Lisbon

The Hotel at Kirkwood - Cedar Rapids

The Carriage House - Cedar Rapids

Bella Sala Events Center - Tiffin

Celebrations

The onset of warm weather brings the season for many celebrations. Whether you are planning a wedding, anniversary, graduation or any other special occasion, there are several things to consider when planning your big event.

What you need to know about formal wear

Nathan Countryman Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

Have a celebration or event coming up that requires more formal attire?

The crew at Bauman’s has been helping men look their best for more than 115 years now.

Olivia Randall, owner at Bauman’s, said when it comes to celebrations or events like weddings, they like meeting with couples nine months in advance of the wedding date to start discussing options.

“This gives them and us plenty of flexibility when it comes to ordering in product, renting items, and completing alterations,” Randall said.

When it comes to getting fitted for tuxes or formal wear, that usually happens three to six months out from the wedding, depending on if the suits are being purchased or rented.

For proms, Randall said one month out from the big event is a good time to come in and get measured for formal wear.

Randall said one of the most important things to keep in mind is price you’re willing to spend.

“That usually dictates the fabrics or materials of the formal wear you are getting,” Randall said. “We tend to recommend wool suits as the ones we sell to customers. Wool provides the most breathability (no matter the weather) and durability which is important when you are investing in a tailored garment.”

Trends at the moment in both weddings and proms are still sticking with black suits.

“It is a very classic, timeless look,” Randall said. Men are more interested in tailored and mod-

ern cuts that fit closer to the body.

Looking at items like, shoes, belts and socks that will accompany the formal wear becomes just as important to the look, Randall said.

Even if you’re not in the wedding party, sometimes seeing the label of “black tie” can set a bit of a panic in your head.

Randall says that you shouldn’t worry.

“This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to wear a black suit/tux, but often means that the expectation is for guests to wear a suit of some sort and not be dressed casually,” Randall said. “Typically, when attending an event, guests are safe in arriving with a suit or sport coat, dress slacks, and a button down shirt. Jackets can always be removed if the person feels too formal in their attire.”

And if you’re a high school student, worried about prom attire, Bauman’s has a few options coming up this March for local schools.

“We are hosting two separate Tux Fitting fundraisers March 10 and March 27 from 3-7 p.m.,” Randall said. “If students come in for the fitting during the events, we donate $20 per student to their post-prom committee.”

For people who have not been measured for formal wear before, Randall explained that staff will measure them and have them try on different sample garments to ensure that they receive the proper sizing for their jacket, shirt, pants, and shoes.

“Then, people will pick out their suit, shirt, vest, and tie/bowtie from fabric swatches and catalogs,” Randall said. “It is helpful if the student brings a fabric sample of the dress they are trying to match their accessories to.”

What you need to know about catering

Nathan Countryman

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

You’re planning on hosting an event, but you don’t necessarily have the time for meal preparation, cooking or planning for the celebration.

That’s where working with a caterer can come handy.

Regina Finn, Bon Appetit’s catering manager, provided insight into the catering process.

“Oftentimes, your caterer is not only skilled in providing you with the food you desire, but they are likely also an experienced event planner who has a comprehensive understanding of how to make your vision a reality in the most efficient, safe, effective, and stylish way possible,” Finn said. “It is almost as important to let your caterer in on key event details like guest count, location, dietary restrictions, as it is to let them in on the general vision and vibe you are trying to achieve. Chances are, your caterer will know how to get you things that aren’t necessarily in their direct wheelhouse… or, through years of networking and relationship building, they’ll ‘know a guy who can get you what you need.”

Finn said every celebration or client is unique, and every event should be approached in such a manner.

“We certainly have instances where our clients have their own menu ideas and we will entertain our client’s concepts in these cases and help bring their envisioned menu to life,” Finn said. “Some clients don’t really know where to begin when it comes to menu planning, and in those cases, we can provide some inspiration via our catering guide and walk them through the best options for their unique event and audience. We offer guidance on menu selection and production amounts.”

Bon Appetit offers both onsite and offsite opportunities for catering, and they know clients come with a range of experience in planning events.

“As long as you come to us with honesty and your vision in mind, we can walk you through the entire process of making it a reality,” Finn said. “That’s our job and we love doing it.”

Finn said one of the most important things clients can remember is there are a lot of small and sometimes unseen steps involved between the concept and actualization of the menus.

“The more information you are able to be forthright with in the early planning stages, makes a huge difference to your caterer and the overall quality of your event,” Finn said. “Even what would seem to be seemingly unimportant or minute details to the average eye, end up being

very important for your caterer to know.”

Details like the average age of your guests can help a caterer know how much food to prepare, or even how long food is available at an event and keeping with food safety guidelines.

“The longer food is sitting on a buffet, the more difficult it becomes to ensure proper food temperatures and exposure times, so more expenses begin to add up,” Finn said.

Caterers also like to know details like food storage spaces available at an event space, any access to prep areas they may have and time customers may have for set up and tear down.

Finn said that Bon Appetit has catered a range of events at different locations –funeral celebrations at bars, graduation parties at mansions, backyard weddings in tents, dinners in classrooms.

“It’s very important for a caterer take the time to get to know their client, become one with their vision, and earn their trust,” Finn said. “This is the secret recipe to ensuring the satisfaction of your clients. It’s the little points of hospitality that really add up & help build that strong, loving and trusting relationship between you and the people who call you their caterer. We consider ourselves very lucky to have that love and trust in spades over here.”

Even if you are hosting an event in a space like outdoors, Finn said where a location is held is important, but it is rarely impossible for a caterer to do their job in many different locations.

“I don’t think it comes as a surprise to anyone that outdoor events and their requirements are logistically different than indoor events,” Finn said.

Items like access to water or electricity if planning an outdoor meal get a little harder, but are still doable.

Outdoors also means more contingencies because of the weather.

“There are often cost differences between planning indoor and outdoor events – It’s best to plan your event at a location that offers both,” Finn said.

Finn said that Cornell College is one of those spaces that offers both, especially during the summer 2025 season. One of Bon Appetit’s other longstanding local partners is Morning Glory farms in rural Mount Vernon, which offers an events center with both indoor and outdoor venue spaces.

“Always keep your caterer informed and involved when it comes to location,” Finn said “We’ve seen and worked in/ under a variety of conditions and can therefore be a great asset to you when it comes to planning the overall “flow” of your event, no matter where it is taking place.”

For most caterers the biggest challenge

always comes down to getting a guest count in a timely manner to adequately prepare.

“All caterers have limitations on how quickly we can change gears and accommodate for a larger than anticipated number of guests, and while we understand that last minute changes can occur, we cannot stress the impor tance of planning in contingency when it comes to guest count,” Finn said. “The quicker we have infor mation, the quicker we can pivot.”

Bon Appetit’s avail ability is reduced during the school year, when the focus is on feeding Cornell College’s students first, but they are still happy to do the occasional event locally anywhere in the Iowa City or Cedar Rapids corridor.

being held on Cornell College campus, reserving that space as far in advance is possible is beneficial.

Finn said Bon Appetit has plenty of availability for catering graduation parties and weddings this summer. If you’re interested in catering an event, contact Finn at Regina.Finn@cafebonappetit.com or at 319-895-4470.

Catering &Events &Events

“There are a couple of weeks out of the year (i.e. early October) where our time and resources are fully dedicated to the College – so contact us as soon as you know when your event will be taking place, and we will be happy to get you on our schedule,” Finn said.

When it comes to out of season events, Finn said having a couple months advance planning is helpful.

And if the event is

Lisbon Roarin’ Jazz night

Photos by Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

Top: Lisbon choir men perform “Bye Bye Love” by the Everly Brothers with music back-up from Steve Stulken, Joseph Arch and Brody Speidel.

Left: Sawyer Feldman and Ethan Hoekstra perform trumpet parts with mutes at the top of “Haitian Fight Song.” Middle: Ty Hoffmeister and Rylan Sporrer perform solos in “A Million Dreams” from “The Greatest Showman.” Right: Ryley Stone and Sarah Dietsch perform solos in “Haitian Fight Song” at Roarin’ Jazz Night.

Members of the jazz choir perform “Lovely Day” at Lisbon Roarin’ Jazz Night.

Above left: Bryce Boots sings a solo to “The Times They Are A Changin’” at Lisbon’s Roarin’ Jazz Night.

Above right: Adalyn Ricke performs a solo in “From the Start.”

Middle school choir – The Seventh Eighth grade choir performs “Honey Babe.”

Lisbon High School held their Roarin’ Jazz Night Friday, Feb. 14. A silent auction and bake sale were part of the event, as well as music from middle school jazz bands, Lisbon jazz fusion, Seventh and Eighth grade choir, high school choir and Lisbon High School Jazz Band.

The event is a fundraiser for the high school music department and organized by members of the Lisbon Choir Council.

Sledding hill opens for season

While many businesses and schools were closed Wednesday, Feb. 12, due to the slow moving snowstorm, many youth took advantage of the snow on Pres Hill to take part in sledding and outdoor activities.

Above: A number of youth walk from the bottom of the hill as the snow slowly falls.

Left: Zane plays with some of the snow at the top of the sledding hill.

IDR helps you prepare for tax time

DES MOINES — With tax filing season soon upon us, the Iowa Department of Revenue is reminding Iowans of the many resources available that can assist taxpayers with filing their tax return. The Department will begin processing individual income returns at the same time as the IRS on January 27. Iowa taxpayers are required to provide their federal return with their Iowa return. Iowa income tax returns are due on April 30.

Updated in July 2024, the Department website (revenue.iowa.gov) is a good starting point to find tax forms and answers to all kinds of tax questions. The Tax Guidance section has been improved to allow taxpayers and tax professionals the ability to easily search for tax guidance in a single location. The Expanded Instructions provides line by line details to help complete the IA 1040. Specifically for tax year 2024, What’s New? addresses some of the most common filing questions about individual income tax changes, including:

• Rounding off to whole dollars

• Increased 529 plan deduction limit

• Changes to Iowa capital gain deduction for cattle, horses, or other breeding livestock

• New public safety officer moving expense tax credit

Filing Made Easy explains the filing process in three simple steps and includes information on how to file, avoiding common mistakes, and details regarding the status of a refund. The Department is committed to helping Iowans understand and comply with their tax obligations. Last year, refund processing averaged 30 days or less throughout the tax season.

The Kernel, GovConnectIowa’s virtual assistant

Available 24/7, including holidays, The Kernel can answer general tax and licensing questions. With just a

few clicks of the keyboard, users can access instant, helpful, insightful answers. It's important to note that The Kernel does have some limitations. The Kernel is pre-programmed with answers to common questions, therefore, users with detailed questions pertaining to their unique circumstances are encouraged to consult their tax preparer or contact the Department directly. The Kernel is meant to enhance the customer experience by providing quick, reliable information. For more details or to experience The Kernel, visit govconnect.iowa.gov. Ask The Kernel - he’s all ears!

If you still need assistance, there are multiple ways to contact the Department:

Website: revenue.iowa.gov

Phone: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 515-281-3114 or 800-367-3388

Email: idr@iowa.gov

Photos by Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

CORDCED IN BOOK 1882 ON PAGE 147 OF THE LINN COUTY RECORDS AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS: COMMENCING AND BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SAID TRACT C, THENCE N88°14’40”E, 548.00

FEET ALONG THE SOUTHERLY RIGHTOF-WAY OF THE CHICAGO AND NORTHWESTERN RAILROAD COMPANY TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF PLAT OF SURVEY #559, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN BOOK 3265 ON PAGE 601 OF THE LINN COUNTY RECORDS; THENCE S01°45’20”E, 80.00 FEET ALONG THE EASTERLY LINE OF SAID TRACT A TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID TRACT A; THENCE S88°14’40”W, 353.98 FEET ALON THE SOUTHERLY LINE OF TRACT A, TRACT B AND TRACT C; THENCE N80°32’39”W, 197.75 FEET TO A POINT ON THE WESTERLY LINE OF SAID TRACT C; THENCE N01°45’20”W, 41.55

FEET ALONG SAID WESTERLY LINE TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. CONTAINING 40,109 SQUARE FEET, MORE OR LESS.

At the above meeting the Council shall receive comments from any resident or property owner of said City with respect to the proposed sale of the property. After all comments have been received and considered, the Council will take additional action on the proposal or will abandon the proposal.

Dated this 3rd day of February, 2025. Marsha Dewell, City Clerk City of Mount Vernon, Iowa

Published in the Sun February 20, 2025.

CITY OF LISBON

REGULAR COUNCIL

MEETING MINUTES

FEBRUARY 10TH, 2025

CALL TO ORDER: The City Council of Lisbon, Iowa, met in regular session on February 10th, 2025, at 7:00p.m. with Mayor Doug O’Connor presiding. The following City Council members were present: John Bardsley, Mike Williams, Nathan Smith, and Rick Scott. Kevin Steele was present via zoom.

CONSENT AGENDA: Motion by Williams, seconded by Bardsley to approve the consent agenda consisting of minutes of January 27th, list of bills, January Treasurer’s report and liquor license for Beau Dylans, Inc. Motion carried 5-0. Motion by Scott, seconded by Bardsley to approve Specialty Warranty Deed for Pleasant Grove Heritage Park. All Ayes. Motion carried 5-0. CDG Director Jessie Thurn presented the BE Lisbon Grant presentation for Luke Krall. The Krall family will be renovating a downtown store front to be utilized as a classic vehicle parts store/warehouse. Motion by Smith, seconded by Williams to approve payment to YTT Design Solutions in the amount of $44,850.00 for engineering design services on the sports complex. All Ayes. Motion carried 5-0. Motion by Smith, seconded by Bardsley to approve Resolution 07-2025 Fund Transfers. Roll call vote. Ayes: Bardsley, Steele, Smith, Williams, and Scott. Absent: None. Nays: None. Motion carried 5-0. The council received the following reports from city departments: Public Works Director Travis Bagby –working with the engineer on site plans for the well house, replacing signs, and complex building work. Reminder to residents with snow in the forcast, don’t push snow into the streets and clear cars off the streets when possible. Parks & Recreation Director Drayton Kamberling – boys’ basketball is done on Saturday, working on sponsorships and Easter preperations.

Library Director Elizabeth Hoover de Galvez – Friends of the library got a grant last year for tuck pointing that has a deadline of March 15th. This is being done inside and out to assist with water proofing of the west wall. May 28th will be the campfire kickoff to the summer reading program, several animal visits planned, spring break events and adult programs to come.

OTHERS PRESENT: Brandon Siggins, Drayton Kamberling, Travis Bagby, Doug Shannon, Jessie Thurn, Luke Krall family. Becky Hess, Ann Opatz, Miriam Johnston, and Robert Butterfield were present via zoom.

Police Chief Doug Shannon – January report and 2024 annual report were submitted to council. Snow emergency to come this week with expected weather.

City Administrator Brandon Siggins – brush truck should be here end of April, start of May and the pump truck is still on schedule for the end of the year. Sports complex meetings, meeting with contractors, Global Water got permission to use railroad delivery – there will be a special program Wednesday at Noon for this. Budget work, S Jackson house has a new owner and is being cleaned up, new yoga studio coming to downtown and the old chinese location should have a new food establishment opening in March/April. Council reported that the Dolly Parton Library had 230 books delivered this month and Mayor O’Connor thanked Brother’s Market for their years of service in Lisbon. Mayor Doug O’Connor adjourned the meeting at 7:22pm. Christina Eicher, City Clerk Doug O’Connor, Mayor Published in the Sun February 20, 2025. CITY OF LISBON LIST OF CLAIMS 2/10/2025

VENDOR NAME DESCRIPTION AMOUNT ACCESS SYSTEMS TECH SUPPORT 1554.59

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CHURCHES

MOUNT VERNON

St. Paul Lutheran Church L.C.M.S.

600 Fifth Avenue South

Pastor: Rev. Sean Hansen www.splcmv.org; send e-mail to info@splcmv.org

Sun.: 9:30 a.m. In-person worship

Please refer to our website or contact the church directly for additional worship information.

First Presbyterian Church

301 1st St. N.W. www.firstpresmv.com

319-895-6060

Pastor: Rev. Lori Wunder

Sun.: 9:30 a.m. in-person worship.

Online services stream beginning at 9:20 a.m. on Facebook

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church

Rev. Andrew Awotwe-Mensah, parish priest

Sun.: 8 a.m. Mass

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Justus Hallam, Bishop

Meeting at: 4300 Trailridge Rd. SE, Cedar Rapids Sun.: 11:30 a.m. in person services. Also an option for digital worship services.

United Methodist Church

Pastor Vicki Fisher

www.umcmv.com

Sun.: 8:30 a.m. Praise Worship

11 a.m. Traditional worship

Both worships available online at UMCMV.com

An LGBTQ affirming congregation

Community Bible Church

940 W. Mount Vernon Rd.

www.mvcbc.org, 895-6269

Teaching Pastor Brandon Glaza

Discipleship Pastor Dennis Fulkerson

Youth Pastor Stephen Thomas

Sun.: 9:30 a.m. In-Person Worship Service

Wed. - 6 p.m. Encounter and Youth Group

Linn Grove Presbyterian

2000 Linn Grove Rd., Mt. Vernon

Pastor Carla Burge Sun: 9 a.m. in-person worship, masks requested Also, weekly readings, prayers and sermons are posted on the church’s Facebook page.

Baha’i Faith

Nina Scott, Group Secretary, 319-270-9230

CrossLife Community Church

Pastor Erik Bennett Sun.: 10:30 a.m. – In-person worship service. Services also livestream on Facebook page.

LISBON

Living Hope Global Methodist Church 200 E. Market St., 455-2000

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Thursday, Feb. 20

Story Time, Cornell College Cole Library Browsing Room, 9:30 a.m.

Fiber Friends, Southeast Linn Community Center, 10:30 a.m.

Humanities Arts and Interest Group Talk – The Olympiade Culturelle: Breaking Paris 2024 by Dr. Rebecca Wines, Cornell College West Science Room 100, 11:10 a.m.

Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center

Adult speaker series “Physical activity and healthy aging” by Kristin Meyer and Christi Johnson LBC, 1 p.m. Visiting writer Afabwaje Kurian, Cornell College Van Etten-Lacey House, 4-5 p.m.

Cornell College presents “4.48 Psychosis” by Sarah Kane Cornell College Armstrong Youngker Hall Kimmel Theater, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 21

No School Mount Vernon. Professional Development Day.

Bingo, Southeast Linn Community Center, 10-11:30 a.m.

Linn Lunch Bunch, Southeast Linn Community Center, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Cornell College presents “4.48 Psychosis” by Sarah Kane Cornell College Armstrong Youngker Hall Kimmel Theater, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 22

Mount Vernon Science Olympiad competition, Mount Vernon Middle School, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Cole Library Puzzle Swap, Cornell College Cole Library, noon to 4 p.m.

Cornell College presents “4.48 Psychosis” by Sarah Kane Cornell College Armstrong Youngker Hall Kimmel Theater, 7:30 p.m.

livinghopegmc.org

Interim Pastors

Services live streamed at Living Hope Global Methodist Church’s YouTube page Sundays at 8:45 a.m. Sun.: 8:45 a.m. — In-person worship.

Seeds of Faith Lutheran Church, ELCA

798 Brenneman Lane, 455-2599

(Off Hwy. 30 on eastern edge of Lisbon) www.seedsoffaithlutheran.org/

Pastor Erika Uthe

9 a.m. — In-person worship. Services also livestream via Seeds’ Facebook Page.

BERTRAM

United Methodist Church

319-365-8077

Rev. Darwin Moore, Pastor Sun.: 10 a.m. — In-person worship service

MARTELLE

Christian Church Sun.: 10:30 a.m. — in person worship service

Services also stream online at Martelle Christian Church’s YouTube page.

United Methodist Church Sun.: 10:30 a.m. Worship service. No Sunday school.

SPRINGVILLE

United Methodist Church

Sun.: 9 a.m. Worship service. Wed.: 6:30 p.m. Praise service

Faith Christian Fellowship

Pastor Joseph Bielema

Sun.: 9:30 a.m. worship at Springville Memorial Library, in the Buresh Room (264 Broadway Street)

St. Isidore Catholic Church Sat.: 6 p.m. Mass

MECHANICSVILLE

Living Hope Bible Church

Pastor Andrew Bee Sun: 9:45 a.m. service

Mechanicsville Memorial Building

First Presbyterian Church

408 E. First Street.

Christian Community Church of Mechanicsville

307 East First Street 563-432-7716

Sun: Sunday School 10-11am and in-person Worship Services at 11:15am with Fellowship to follow.

St. Mary’s Catholic Church

Pastor: Father James Flattery

Wed.: 8:30 a.m. — mass Sun.: 8 a.m. Mass

Sunday, Feb. 23

Cornell College presents “4.48 Psychosis” by Sarah Kane, Cornell College Armstrong Youngker Hall Kimmel Theater, 2 p.m.

Cornell College Jazz Ensemble concert, Cornell College Thomas Commons Smith Dining Room, 3-4 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 24

Lisbon City Council, Lisbon City Hall, 7 p.m.

Lisbon Public Library Reading Friends Book Discussion Lisbon Public Library, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 25

Lego Club, Cornell College Cole Library Room 108, 3:30 p.m.

Yarn squad, Cornell College Cole Library Room 326, 6:30 p.m.

Learn to play bridge, Cornell College Cole Library Room 410, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 26

Cards, Southeast Linn Community Center, 10-11:30 a.m.

Linn Lunch Bunch, Southeast Linn Community Center, 11:30 a.m.

Learn to play bridge, Cornell College Cole Library room 108, 1 p.m.

ImpactLife Blood Drive at Cornell College Cornell College Thomas Commons Hall-Perinne Room, 2-5 p.m. Lisbon Library’s “Dog Tales”, Lisbon Public Library, 4-5 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 27

Story Time Cornell College Cole Library Browsing Room, 9:30 a.m.

Fiber Friends, Southeast Linn Community Center, 10:30 a.m.

Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center Adult speaker series “Connections with the Csomay Center” by Jennifer Jones, LBC, 1 p.m.

Across

1 Gaming ___ (console alternatives, for short)

4 Command to a skydiver

8 Make a quick appearance

13 Bad sound to hear while bending over

14 Taylor-Joy of “The Queen’s Gambit”

15 Have a loan from

16 Unfriendly, as a relationship

17 Brouhahas / Most appalling

19 Letters put in boxes

21 First half of a two-volume encyclopedia on physics, aptly?

22 Org. for important adults in a child’s life

23 “The Incredibles” costumer / Science class display

26 Smallest bit

27 Roasts

28 In

30 Singer/songwriter ___ Reznor

33 Worked (up)

34 Lock up for the night / Despairs

36 Woodwinds that are usually black

38 It’s all wound up

39 Sent a reminder text, in lingo

41 Weird flexes?

45 Cornhole action

46 Like some activities at a mountain lodge / Marketing fodder

49 Affirmation not usually spoken at a Jewish wedding

50 “My man!”

51 Grow a team, say

52 Set of educational standards … or a hint to 17-, 23-, 34- and 46-Across

56 What follows T.S.A., weirdly

57 Capital east of the Jordan River

58 Like some fabrics

59 Early tech giant

60 Not too sure

61 Genesis creator

62 Like cabernet sauvignon wine, typically

Down

1 Part of a makeup routine

2 Part of a summer swarm

3 Getting a sneak peek?

4 Sticky stuff

5 Point value of any vowel in Spanish Scrabble

6 “That’s on me”

7 Wasabi or miso

8 Something a meter reader reads?

9 Take responsibility for, as a mistake

10 Lookout point

11 “Let’s do this thing”

12 Covered in marginalia, maybe

18 Soft drink named for a nut

20 Final race stretches … or what racers may be on by then

24 Down in the dumps

25 Infrequently counterfeited bills

26 “What just happened?” reaction

29 North Korea has the fourth-highest number of these, after China, India and the U.S.

31 Original Super Mario console, in brief

32 Equivalent of 16 pinches: Abbr.

34 Something to put stock in

35 Sprinkler attachment

36 Vision-related

37 Housing bubble?

40 “Phooey!”

42 Button clicked to advance to a YouTube video

43 Aid in self-reflection

44 Unflinching

47 Goal seekers?

48 River through Lyon

50 What a good fillet of fish isn’t

53 Word that becomes its own synonym if you add a “k” to the end

54 Fix the wrong way?

55 H

To play: Complete the grid so that every row, column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9. There is no guessing or math involved, just use logic to solve.

SUDOKU

Lion girls claw past East Marshall 35-12

Ryan Suchomel Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com

In the shot-clock era, it is hard to hold any team to 12 points for an entire game.

Lisbon girls’ basketball managed it against East Marshall in a Class 2A first-round game Saturday, Feb. 15, in the Lions’ Den, winning 35-12.

Tipton on Feb. 8), hurt them a little bit.

Fortunately, their “senior” leader came through.

Kahl hit a pair of 3-pointers to help crack open the Mustangs’ defense. They led 18-6 at halftime.

second half.”

Kahl hit another two 3-pointers in the third quarter (she finished with a game-high 15 points) and the Lions led 26-9 going into the final quarter.

It was the first regional win for Lisbon since 2021, and just the second in the previous dozen years.

The game was a bit of a rock fight early on. Lisbon led 5-4 after one quarter, and 9-6 midway through the second quarter.

“Defensively we were pretty solid all night,” Lisbon coach Jack Leighty said. “Offensively, we couldn’t throw it in the ocean.”

The first-year Lions coach said having a week without a game (Lisbon closed the regular season with a loss to

“I don’t think I’ve ever played in a high school basketball game that was that low scoring,” Lisbon junior Kamryn Kahl said.

“If you don’t hit your shots, you’ve got to keep shooting until they fall, and that’s what happened,” Kahl said. “Then I started to grow in confidence. And as I became more of a threat, my teammates were more open.”

Lisbon knew that East Marshall (3-20) had struggled scoring all season and came in averaging only 22.9 points per game.

But the Lions didn’t let up, using the press to keep the Mustangs from gaining any momentum.

“We knew we couldn’t underestimate them,” Kahl said. “We showed some resilience in the

“It is big for us,” Leighty said. “I’ve never coached a team without seniors. We have everybody coming back next year. This is just a stepping stone.

“And we get to play Tuesday. You never know what may happen.”

Lisbon faced a significant upgrade in opposition, and a long road trip, playing at Jesup (17-4) on Tuesday, Feb. 18. For reference, the J-Hawks just beat the Mustangs 57-19 on Jan. 31.

“This win is great for the Lisbon basketball program,” Kahl said. “Hopefully, there’s more to come.”

MV BOYS’ BASKETBALL

MV loses to CC-A 80-51

Ryan Suchomel

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com

For Mount Vernon boys’ basketball, it was an odd week.

On Tuesday, Feb. 11, the Mustangs lost a crossdivision WaMaC game to No. 10 Clear Creek Amana 80-51 in XTream Arena in Coralville.

The Mustangs trailed just 39-33 at halftime, but the Clippers won the third quarter 17-5.

CCA, winners of the WaMaC West, improved to 17-4 overall. Andrew Rotzoll led CCA with 16 points. Brock Hilsman had 13 points and 11 rebounds.

Then Friday, Feb. 14, Mount Vernon had their WaMaC home

finale cancelled when Grinnell couldn’t solve a transportation issue.

The Mustangs finished 11-4 in the WaMaC East, a half-game back of Solon

and Center Point-Urbana, both 12-4.

Mount Vernon (15-5) had a Senior Night game against Washington (9-11) on Tuesday, Feb. 18, and

were still waiting for their postseason assignment as of Monday afternoon. First-round 3A substate games are set for Monday, Feb. 24.

Abby Princehouse | For the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

Above: Mount Vernon’s Josef Briesemeister (No. 32) takes a shot from the 3-point arc at the XTream Arena last week.

Left: Mount Vernon players head in for a time out at XTream Arena.

A.J. Dolan | For the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

Top right: Lisbon’s Quinn Roos (No. 11) goes up for a lay-up at home last week.

Above: Lisbon’s Emma Pleasant (No. 12) drives the ball towards the hoop.

Right: Lisbon’s Kamryn Kahl (No. 23) tries for the jump ball at the beginning of the game.

East Marshal (12) – Sydney Hull 0-6 0-0 0, Dylaney Ryan 2-11 1-2 6, Mya Gould 0-6 0-0 0, Makayla Hala 0-2 0-0 0, Ashtyn Wheater

WRESTLING

from 20

Lynnville-Sully in the semifinals, 12-11, then topped Cason Fitch of ColfaxMingo for the title by technical fall, 17-2.

Boots had a pin in the semifinals and a 16-1 technical fall over Cael Weisskopf of HLV in the finals. Holub pinned Henry Adam of Pekin in 1:26 and then pinned Maxx Solie of Jesup in 2:19.

“Tiernan has a motor that doesn’t quit,” Helmrich said. “Gage upset the top seed to win the district.”

Not every path to state was straight. Stricker and Sadler each had to win a wrestle backs to qualify.

Ian Kelsey (157) and Gavin Carmer (190) won their third-place matches, but then lost a wrestle back to miss out.

“After you lose in the finals, it can be a real quick turn-around,” Helmrich said. “You can’t stub your toe. They showed they should be the guy going to state.”

“It was an overall great day for Lisbon wrestling, top to bottom.”

CLASS 1A DISTRICT (Colfax)

Team scores – 1. Lisbon 202.5; 2. Jesup 202; 3. Belle Plaine 113; 4. Lynnville-Sully 91; 5. Colfax-Mingo 87; 6. Montezuma 84.5; 7. Moravia 56.5; 8. HLV 30; 9. Baxter 27; 10. Pekin 25. LISBON

106 – Jack Gogel, 1-1, second. 113 – Cael Stricker, 3-1, second. 120 – Wesley Sadler, 1-1, second. 126 – Cade Happel, 3-0, first. 132 –Carter Gadberry, 2-2, fourth. 138 – Jackson Knapp, 2-2, fourth. 144 – Luke Robinson, 1-2. 150 – Tiernan Boots, 2-0, first. 157 – Ian Kelsey, 3-2, third. 165 – Gage Holub, 2-0, first. 175 – Caleb Brown, 2-1, second. 190 – Gavin Carmer, 3-2, third. 215 – Jacob Walerius, 2-1, second. 285 – Hudson Herboldsheimer, 0-2

Jennifer Tischer | Contributed photos

Above: Lisbon’s Jacob Walerius grapples an opponent at the district wrestling meet.

Left: Lisbon’s Tiernan Boots tries to push an opponent to the mat.

Mount Vernon sending nine to state wrestling tournament

Ryan Suchomel

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com

Mount Vernon boys’ wrestling won its Class 2A District Meet on Saturday, Feb. 15 in Ballard, and qualified nine wrestlers for this week’s state tournament in Des Moines.

Mount Vernon scored 233.5 points. Ballard was second with 169 points and PCM was third with 140.5.

Cooper Krob (106), Jake Haugse (120), Jase Jaspers (144), Mikey Ryan (150), Will Goodlove (157), Cooper Hird (165), Jaxon Anderson (175), Caysen Curran (190), and Ethan Wood (285) all punched their tickets to Wells Fargo.

“That was a few more than we anticipated,” Mount Vernon coach Vance Light said. “But the more the merrier.”

The big numbers could help the Mustangs contend for the team title in a fairly open 2A field.

“It just depends on how we wrestle,” Light said. “The only thing you control is how you do, then you see how the other teams do.”

If the Mustangs contend, they’ll be led by their three district champions – Jaspers, Ryan and Wood. They earned, respectively, a one, two and three seed at the state tournament.

Jaspers only had to wrestle twice

Lisbon slashes Prince of Peace 53-47

Ryan Suchomel Mount Vernon-Lisbon

Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com

The Lisbon boys’ basketball team wrapped up the regular season with a 53-47 win over Prince of Peace on Tuesday, Feb. 11, in Clinton.

The game was a battle until the Lions pulled away late in the third quarter. Lisbon led 39-31 going into the fourth quarter and the Irish never made a big run.

“It was back and forth most of the game,” Lisbon Coach Levi Montague said. “We kept sending multiple guys at Powell, but he still scored 28.”

Hakeal Powell was a volume shooter, sinking 10 of 28 from the field, including four 3-pointers. Logan Detterman added nine points and nine rebounds.

Grayson Wollum led Lisbon with 23 points, 11 rebounds and five blocked shots. Jackson Powers had 11 points and 11 rebounds.

Lisbon closed the regular season 15-6 overall and 10-2 in the Tri-Rivers East. The Lions were second to Bellevue Marquette, the No. 1 team in Class 1A, which handed Lisbon its only conference losses (67-52 on Dec. 6 and 71-66 on Jan. 17).

“Looking back, a few plays here, a few there, and we might’ve possibly split the conference with them,” Montague said.

Now it is playoff time. Lisbon opened Class 2A play Monday, Feb. 17, at home against Camanche.(3-18).

Win that and Lisbon travels to Monticello (17-4) on Thursday, Feb. 20. The other side of the district includes top seed Northeast (16-5). The district final is Tuesday, Feb. 25. The other half of the substate includes top seed and No. 7-ranked Grundy Center (19-2) and the two seed Iowa City Regina (18-3). As a painful reminder, the Regals thumped the Lions 74-34 back on Dec. 9.

“We have a challenging path,” Montague said. “We’ll worry about the next game after we get past Monday night.”

Mount Vernon had nine state qualifiers this year: Cooper Krob (106), Jake Haugse (120), Jase Jaspers (144), Mikey Ryan (150), Will Goodlove (157), Cooper Hird (165), Jackson Anderson (175), Caysen Curran (190) and Ethan Wood (285).

Saturday, he pinned Adam Boeck of Van Meter in 1:25, and beat Colton Shaffer of Oskaloosa by technical fall, 19-3 in 4:14.

Ryan won three times, with two pins and a technical fall in the championships, 19-3 over Jayden Leland of Ballard.

Wood was behind Kaden Clark of PCM in the championship when he “caught the guy on his back” per Light, and pinned him in 5:20.

“They all wrestled well and concentrated on the little things,” Light said.

Most of the rest of the Mustang qualifiers had to battle for that state spot. Krob, Haugse, and Hird had to win a wrestleback after losing in the finals.

“We had six guys in wrestlebacks,” Light said. “A few guys came up a little short.”

Nolan Mercer (132) lost his wrestleback after losing in the finals to finish third.

Chasen Caskey (138) and Andrew Dix (215) won their third-place match and tried to get to state by winning the wrestleback, but fell short. CJ Martin (126) also finished third.

For wrestlers not named Jaspers, Ryan or Wood, the path at state will be tougher.

“None of the rest are seeded in the top eight, they are scattered out,” Light said. “But you’ve got win some matches to place, so it really doesn’t matter.”

In a year where the lineup has fluctuated most of the season, and the Mustangs already collected a state duals banner, the ending is still unknown.

“The guys that made it to the end of the year deserve to be there,” Light said. “It’ll also help us out for next year. All but three (qualifiers) are underclassmen. It’ll be good for the younger guys to get experience, and get hungry for next year.”

CLASS 2A DISTRICT (Ballard)

Contributed photos

Mount Vernon wrestling team was the district champion and qualified many wrestlers to the state tournament.

MV BOYS’ WRESTLING

LISBON BOYS’ BASKETBALL

MV GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

MV girls hammer V-S 68-23

Ryan Suchomel

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com

Top-ranked Mount Vernon girls’ basketball started their return path to the state tournament by hammering Vinton-Shellsburg in a Class 3A playoff game Saturday, Feb. 15.

Mount Vernon won, 68-23.

Like the regular-season matchup, which the Mustangs won 77-25, Mount Vernon got off to a hot start and led 21-3 after the first quarter and 47-11 by half.

“We were stellar defensively, particularly in the first half,” Mount Vernon coach Nathan Sanderson said. “We limited the visitors to just four field goals while forcing 18 turnovers and allowing zero offensive rebounds.

“Our goal was to play sound, solid position defense and we did an outstanding job.”

LISBON BOYS’ WRESTLING

Offensively, Sydney Huber led the attack with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Chloe Meester added 15 points, Savanna Wright had 12 points and Taylor Franck added 10 points.

Next up is a regional semifinal against Solon (1210) on Wednesday, Feb. 19, at Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon (21-1) beat their Hwy. 1 rivals 62-30 on Dec. 17 and 57-33 on Jan. 24.

Win that, and Mount Vernon would host the winner of No. 13 Mediapolis (21-1) and Benton Community (8-14) in a regional final Saturday, Feb. 22.

On Tuesday, Feb. 11, Mount Vernon closed the regular season with a 61-42 win over No. 12 (4A) Clear Creek Amana at XTream Arena in Coralville.

The Mustangs got out to a 23-10 lead after one quarter. CCA got within striking distance (10 points) midway through the fourth quarter.

Huber led the offense with 17 points. Taylor Franck had 14 points and Chloe Meester had 14 points and 16 rebounds. The win gave Mount Vernon the overall WaMaC Championship.

Lisbon sending eight to state tournament

Ryan Suchomel Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com

Lisbon coach Aaron Helmrich has had a sneaking suspicion all season his team might be pretty darn good.

At the Class 1A District Meet on Saturday, Feb. 15, at Colfax-Mingo, the Lions certainly proved it.

Lisbon won the team title by a halfpoint over Jesup, the team that denied the Lions a trip to the State Duals on Feb. 4. The Lions also qualified eight wrestlers for the state tournament this week in Des Moines.

“It was amazing,’ Helmrich said. “We battled it out all day, and had 14 guys that wanted it more.”

Helmrich said other than an occasional “rumbling” he didn’t know how the team scores stacked up.

“I don’t look until all the guys are done wrestling,” Helmrich said. “If guys wrestle hard all day, then team scores will take care of itself.

“But when I saw the last Jesup guy was done, and we were up by 0.5 … the boys were happy.”

The wrestlers who were extra happy earned a trip to state – Jack Gogel (106), Cael Stricker (113), Wesley Sadler (120), Cade Happel (126), Tiernan Boots (150), Gage Holub (165), Caleb Brown (175), and Jacob Walerius (215).

Of those, Happel, Boots and Holub won district titles. (Only Boots got a high seed at state, third.)

“Cade had some really good wrestlers in his bracket,” Helmrich said. “If you wrestle it 10 times, it might be a different 1 to 4 every time. He took care of business.”

Happel beat Kimball Elliott of

Maddie Willis | For The Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

Left: Mount Vernon’s Savanna Wright (No. 10) rises above the defense to secure a jump shot.

Abby Princehouse | For The Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

Above: Mount Vernon’s Taylor Franck (No. 11) goes for a layup uncontested at the net.

Left: Mount Vernon’s Eryn Jackson (No. 5) looks for an open teammate.

Jennifer Tischer | Contributed photo

The Lisbon wrestling team was the district champion at Colfax Mingo and had multiple qualifiers advance to the state championships.