Mount Vernon-Lisbon
Mount Vernon investigating expansion to LBC
OPN investigating potential cost of adding daycare center to LBC
Nathan Countryman
Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com
The City of Mount Vernon will be investigating a potential addition to the Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center that could add a community daycare to the space. OPN Architects will be investigating potential designs and costs for adding a daycare to the center.
City administrator Chris Nosbisch said that the look to add the daycare center began after the recommendation for the new pool concluded and ruled out an indoor pool at the LBC as an option.
The city, Mount Vernon School District and Cornell College have continued discussions on the need for more daycare options in the community.
Nosbisch said that after speaking with mayor Tom Wieseler and a visit to Mahaska County YMCA in Marshalltown, who has a daycare attached to their fitness center, the idea started getting more traction to at least investigate.
“The challenge for any daycare option is always catering to infants to toddlers,” Nosbisch said. “We know that any childcare solution in these communities is going to need to be subsidized to a degree.”
Nosbisch said if the option only houses 50 children, at a cost of a few million, it might not be worth exploring.
The goal is to see the square footage that can be used to the northwest of the LBC. There is a possibility for some grant funding for the project.
Nosbisch said the city is not excited to be in the daycare business, but feels that researching this option for housing a daycare is worth looking at.
Council member Craig Engel said that the school system continues looking at a fourth building that will help them expand their own childcare options. Mayor Tom Wieseler said that discussion happened at a work session of the school board a few weeks ago, and it might take them four to five years to have the funding for another
HOLIDAY SPARKLE
Nutcracker takes stage Dec. 8
Nathan Countryman
Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com
Dance Arts Iowa’s production of “The Nutcracker” will return Sunday, Dec. 8, at 2 p.m. at Mount Vernon Performing Arts Center. Tickets are available at the door for $10 each.
The group was having one of their final studio rehearsals ahead of the production ahead of Thanksgiving holiday.
Allie Teague is playing the role of Drosselmeyer in the production.
“I’m usually one of the miscellaneous parts in the production,” Teague said. “This role gives me a chance to expand what I do in dance.”
Teague said that one of the changes this year is Drosselmeyer has much larger movements to draw attention to what he is doing, a change from parts she has played in the past.
Atticus Happoldt plays the role of The Nutcracker in the production.
“Just being here and dancing with my friends is fun,” Happoldt said.
Happoldt said this is his ninth year in dance, and the role is not that challenging.
“It’s a classic Christmas show we’ve put a lot of work into,” Happoldt said.
Reagan Ireland plays Clara in this year’s production.
“I get to be one of the main focuses of the show,” Ireland said.
Violet Olinger plays a number of roles in the production.
“It’s a lot of smaller solos I have throughout the show,” Olinger said. “
Thanksgiving closures
Mount Vernon and Lisbon City Halls will be closed Thursday, Nov. 28 and Friday, Nov. 29.
Garbage collection in Lisbon will be impacted by the Thanksgiving holiday. If your garbage is picked up on Thursdays, Johnson County Refuse will collect trash Friday, Nov. 29, instead.
Mount Vernon and Lisbon Schools
For her, it’s been a lot of practices on her duets and solos for the show that has been the minor challenges.
Jill Wilkins is one of the directors of the dance show.
“What I enjoy the most is it’s an opportunity for all of our dance instructors to collaborate and work together,” Wilkins said. “Our older and younger students also get an opportunity to work together.”
Courtenay Baker is another of the directors of the show.
“I love seeing how our dancers grow in their dance expertise year to year,” Baker
are closed Wednesday, Nov. 27 through Friday, Nov. 29.
Cole Library will be closed for Thanksgiving holiday, as will SELCC and Lisbon Public Library.
Linn County closures
In observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, most Linn County governmental offices will be closed Thursday and Friday, Nov. 28 and 29. Regular business hours resume Monday, Dec. 2.
The following services will continue to operate:
• Juvenile Detention and Diversion
said. “I also love that we have adults and families dancing in the party scene as part of this production.”
“It’s a wonderful community production that fits the Christmas theme,” Teague said.
“It’s a Christmas tradition,” Happoldt said.
“I think it’s a great show that shows the high level of talent in our community,” Wilkins said.
“It’s just a Midwestern Christmas tradition,” Baker said.
PHOTOS | 20
Services
• Mental Health Access Center
• Linn County LIFTS will be closed Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28 but will operate reduced routes in Cedar Rapids, Hiawatha, and Marion on Friday, Nov. 29 (no rural service).
The Sheriff’s Office will be closed; however, continuous operations will be available for routine and emergency responses. This includes the Patrol Division, Communications Division, and the Correctional Center. In an emergency, always dial 911.
Vehicle registrations can be renewed online at any time at www.iowataxandtags.org.
Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
The Nutcracker and his army face off against the Rat King and his army during the show.
building project.
Nosbisch said even if that continues, there is probably still going to be a need for another daycare option as well.
“We’re looking to cater to different ages of kids,” Nosbisch said. “They may be looking to increase the
number of 3-year-old and 4-year-old daycare options.”
Council member Stephanie West said she is glad to see the city investigating this option.
“The need in the community is so great, and this would be money well spent to discover if it is feasible,” West said.
Nosbisch said he expected LBC staff to be more resis-
Iowa School Performance Profiles released
Area schools range from needs improvement to high performing
Nathan Countryman
Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com
The Iowa Department of Education recently released their Iowa School Performance Profiles for 2024. Area schools scores range from needs improvement to high performing in the assessments.
“Overall, Mount Vernon School District continues to perform well above the state averages,” superintendent Matt Leeman said. “While the State average isn’t our overall bar for performance it is noteworthy. As a district we do need to work to improve our growth in both ELA and math across the board. We need to maintain our higher levels of proficiency at the same time as we ensure that all students are making growth. “
Leeman also said the district is working on post-secondary readiness and work-based learning opportunities at the high school level.
“We have had conversations since my arrival about extending our offerings in the MOC and internship areas,” Leeman said. “Given that there is now a direct measurement focused upon this will only help to amplify and expedite this focus for us. Interestingly enough, prior it was very important to have a concentrator status in the CTE areas and that now is just completely gone from the scoring. My concern with this becomes we shift our focus for goals for the next five years and this could change again and our scoring will not be reflective of the work that we’ve then done.”
Leeman said with the district just establishing their “Big Rock” goals, the performance profiles arrived at an opportune time for the school to shift their focus for buildings to be presented at the December meeting.
“The Mount Vernon School district has a lot to
tant to the idea, but both Sarah Boots and Matt Siders saw this as a great potential addition to the center.
“As long as we’re involved in governance for the common good, we need to engage in this issue,” Wieseler said.
Nosbisch said that this is also a connected issue in this community.
(86.83 compared to 61.55), mathematics (89 compared to 69.81) English language arts (89.25 compared to 72.72) and in growth in mathematics (73 compared to 50), and English language arts (59 compared to 50).
The district was below the state average in chronic absenteeism (15.85 compared to 21.63) and attendance growth (1.92 compared to 2.18).
be proud of with the profiles overall as many districts don’t compare to our data,” Leeman said. “Our bar, though, will continue to be high and moved higher. That just ensures that we are doing the best that we can for our students as a whole.”
Mount Vernon High School
Mount Vernon High School had a score of 545.2 out of 900 points for 60.58 percent. The district was marked as acceptable, slightly below the statewide average of 60.95 percent.
The district beat the statewide averages in proficiency in science (75 compared to 61.55), mathematics (83.71 compared to 69.81), English Language Arts (80.34 compared to 72.72) postsecondary readiness index (79.46 compared to 68.99).
The district had a 4-year graduation rate of 88.24 (ahead of statewide average 87.46) and 5-year rate of 95.74 (ahead of statewide average 89.65).
The district fell behind in growth in mathematics (44 compared to statewide average of 50), English Language Arts (34 compared to statewide average of 50) and postsecondary readiness of work-based learning (0.89 compared to statewide average of 25.47).
The district was also lower than the statewide average of chronic absenteeism (15.53 compared to 21.63) and was ahead of the statewide average on attendance growth (2.95 compared to 2.18).
Mount
Vernon Middle School
Mount Vernon Middle School had a score of 514.76 out of 700 points for a 73.54 percent. The school was noted as high performing, exceeding the state average of 60.95 percent. The school showed proficiencies above the state average in science
“We need to see some growth in our community to sustain valuation increases for our tax base,” Nosbisch said. “You can’t convince families to move to a community without daycare options or opportunities. If you can’t convince new families to move to the community, you’re going to continually see issues in enrollment numbers.”
of 900 placed them at 59.33 percent, slightly below the state average and in the threshold of acceptable scores. The school was noted with a need to help students with disabilities (IEP) scoring lower and targeted for more help in the coming year. Because the district needs improvement and was targeted for improvement, they were dropped to the needs improvement category.
Washington Elementary
Washington Elementary School had a score of 460.76 out of 700 for a 65.82 percent. The school was noted as commendable, exceeding the state average of 60.95 percent.
The school showed proficiencies above the state average in mathematics (83.01 compared to 69.81), English language arts (77.67 compared to 72.72), and growth in English language arts (58 compared to 50)
The school was below the state average in growth in mathematics (46 compared to 50).
The district was below the state average in chronic absenteeism (9.13 compared to 21.63) but above the state average in attendance growth (3.66 compared to 2.18).
Lisbon Schools
Lisbon High School was marked as needs improvement and Lisbon Elementary was marked as an acceptable district.
“As a school district, we continue to look at opportunities for continuous improvement and intentionality in the ways that we empower student growth,” said superintendent Autumn Pino. “One area that we are proud of is the continued focus on individual students and efforts to meet them where they are at and stretch them to higher levels of performance. This is important to us and will continue to be work that we are committed to as a school system. We will continue to look at academic priorities and the most effective ways to allocate resources that support staff development and student learning.”
Lisbon High School
Lisbon High School was noted as a school that needs improvement. The district’s score of 533.99 out
Engel said that a survey conducted this spring showed 34 businesses and 344 individuals felt an investment in child care would be a good investment in the community.
“This is a huge source of stress for many in our community, and this is an opportunity to make something better for the community,” West said. Volume
changes have been made to our master schedule to increase intervention time and support for all students.”
Lisbon High School beat the statewide average in science (70.71 compared to statewide 61.55), mathematics (76.25 compared to 69.81) and English and Language arts
SCHOOLS | 20
“At the secondary level we have started to implement the following action steps: Adjusted from MAP testing to FAST, which will provide us with an additional data point to monitor student performance (From two data points to three),” said secondary principal Jack Leighty. “This also creates an opportunity for more cohesion and district alignment. In addition,
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Official Newspaper: Mount Vernon, Lisbon, Bertram, Linn County, Mount Vernon Community School District, Lisbon Community School District The Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun (USPS 367-520), a division of The Daily Iowan, is published weekly every Thursday by Student Publications, Inc., 100 Adler Journalism Building, Room E131, Iowa City, Iowa 52242. Periodicals Postage Paid at the Mount Vernon Post Office and additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun, 108 1st St SW, Mount Vernon, IA 52314.
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mvlsun.com
Area first responders speak about readiness for disasters, tips for households
Nathan Countryman
Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com
Emergency preparedness was the topic of discussion at Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center’s Adult Speaker Series Thursday, Nov. 21.
Mount Vernon-Lisbon Police Chief Doug Shannon, Mount Vernon Fire Chief Nathan Goodlove and Lisbon-Mount Vernon Ambulance Service director Jacob Lindauer all presented the ways their training and working together helps keep these communities safe and lessons they learned.
Shannon said that when it comes to disaster preparedness, what citizens need to keep in mind is that the goal is when a disaster hits, that citizens can be self-sufficient for 72 hours.
“We know one of the lessons we learned in the derecho is when communications went down for citizens, they went down for staff as well,” Shannon said. “That was one of the things we worked on following that derecho as a lesson learned was building redundancy in emergency communications.”
In the case of an emergency Goodlove said it is advised to keep at least a gallon of water per person per day available.
“The one thing we can say in the floods of 2008 and the derecho is our area had no fatalities,” Goodlove said. “A lot of that has to do with the Midwest Nice nature, and neighbors taking care of each other in the case of emergencies.”
Lindauer said that one of the lessons learned in the derecho was the importance of having data on people who may be on concentrated oxygen or other aids impacted by power outages.
“Linn County Public Health had that data, but we needed to have signatures in place to get access to that data, which was made harder without having access to a fax machine,” Lindauer said. “We were able to send crews to check on those addresses and either ourselves, their families or neighbors got them to alternative addresses to get the resources they needed.”
Shannon said one thing Mount Vernon and Lisbon should know they are lucky about is the level of responders that we have in the area.
“We have two great fire departments, a full-time police department and an outstanding EMS service,” Shannon said. “We
The Scoop: Season’s Greetings!
Jessie Thurn Director of Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group
The CDG is excited for the next Shop Small event Saturday, Nov. 30, rom 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The first 50 shoppers to visit the CDG booth in Hilltop Pocket Park will receive an amazing swag bag, filled with local goodies from sponsoring businesses. Throughout the day starting at 8:30 a.m., shoppers will have the opportunity to win local business gift certificates or Community Cash, by participating in trivia every 30 minutes.
all work together as departments on reporting what went well, what we learned from here, and how we can make sure we respond better in the next time.”
Lindauer said due to the geography of where Mount Vernon and Lisbon are working, his organizations works with responders from multiple counties —Johnson, Cedar, Jones and Linn — and getting them all on the same radio frequency or channel can be a challenge in an emergency.
Goodlove said there is work to get to a more uniform state system, but doubts that will be a reality anytime soon.
“What’s more likely to happen is for a regional dispatch to be established for our county area instead,” Goodlove said.
Goodlove said it would be great if there were more dedicated dispatchers knowledgeable for fire or EMS, as many dispatchers are good for law enforcement calls.
“I know they are constantly struggling to find dispatch operators, however,” Goodlove said.
Shannon said 90 percent of the issues with tiered responses is working through communications breaking down or not working, despite training and exercises conducted.
Lindauer said that all these local departments having great working relationships is a huge deal.
“I can speak from experience that you don’t always find great relationships like this between multiple departments,” Lindauer said.
One of the big improvements all three noted was the installation of a generator at the LBC.
“To have that support from our community members and council that this is a priority is huge,” Goodlove said. “It’s a significant investment in these buildings, but allows them to do so much for people in case of emergencies, be that charging medical devices or having a shelter.”
All three agencies said that recruiting has been it’s own kind of challenge.
At the fire department, Goodlove said that work was done to bring on younger members over the past several years.
“We found that we had several members who were older and needed to do some succession planning and targeted recruitment for younger members,” Goodlove said. “We did that with recruiting Cornell students and starting a cadets program.”
Lynch Ford Chevrolet has sponsored $500 of Community Cash for their customers, redeemable at the CDG booth.
The holiday spirit continues Thursday, Dec. 5, from 5-8 p.m. for Magical Night! This is truly a community event with magic sprinkled throughout first street Mount Vernon. If you cannot attend Magical Night, you can support the effort by participating in the Magical Night Silent Auction hosted by local banks. For more information, please see the Facebook Event for details: https://www.facebook. com/@visitmvl/
Finally, the CDG recently launched its annual Investment Drive! The commitment of the Mount Vernon and Lisbon communities has been instrumental in the CDG sponsoring annual events, hosting Entrepreneuza sessions, bringing on a social media manager, and much more. To receive a copy of the investment drive, please email your name and address to: director@visitmvl.com.
To support the CDG’s Investment Drive today, please scan the PayPal QR code.
Shannon said that for the police department, hiring a brand new officer and their training comes at a $35,000 price tag. It’s why allowing people to sign up for the officer reserves is beneficial, as it gives them enough training to learn more about the career before joining the force.
Lindauer said recruiting was one of his first tasks as a director.
“I know those first few months, it was just me and possibly a volunteer like Jim Wallace responding to medical calls,” Lindauer said. “We utilized fire department and police help on some of those calls.”
Lindauer said he took a different approach, and helped to create an environment where volunteers have the opportunity to learn and expand their knowledge and improve themselves.
“While 50 percent of our crew is community based, I still have people from Cornell, Coe, University of Iowa who come to this service to get experiences they don’t get in other services,” Lindauer said.
Training a paramedic is a $20,000 to $25,000 investment, whereas an EMT or Advanced EMT is a $2,000 to $2,500 investment, but the service needs all tiers of responders to house coverage.
The biggest hurdle for EMS is trying to shift people from the mindset that every call for service needs to be transferred to a hospital, that sometimes just medical professionals treating what they encounter in the field is enough.
Shannon said one of the biggest accomplishments during his tenure as chief was bringing together Mount Vernon and Lisbon’s police departments to provide 24/7 coverage for the two communities.
“It was hard for these two departments to provide that coverage on their own, but
with the merge, it’s allowed us to better use community resources and service,” Shannon said.
Goodlove said that for the fire department, the biggest challenge is keeping firefighters in the necessary gear that the department can afford for them. A goal he has for the next 10 to 20 years is to get sleeping quarters at the department, so those on call in the evening hours can respond to calls even faster.
“Most fires today involve items that are made from plastic or synthetics, which are toxic when they burn and they burn hot,” Goodlove said. “The lag time we have to most responses is three to seven minutes just to get to the fire department, and then respond to scene. In that time, fires are developing stronger.”
Goodlove recommended smoke alarms in every bedroom and one on each floor. He also recommended people have carbon monoxide detectors on every floor. In rural homes, he recommended propane detectors as well. Fire extinguishers kept in a location away from sources of heat, but readily accessible.
Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun Lisbon-Mount Vernon Ambulance services director Jacob Lindauer, Mount Vernon-Lisbon Police chief Doug Shannon and Mount Vernon Fire chief Nathan Goodlove present about public safety at the adult speaker series.
OPINIONS
Iowa City: Leave your leaves alone! Thankful for a lot in these communities this year
Living in Iowa
Dan Brawner
Sometimes the most sensible thing to do is…do nothing.
Take the city of Iowa City. For the last few years, I have been raking my leaves to the curb in the hope that this time, they will send their leaf truck to our house and slurp them up. Although the truck never came, it seems I have misjudged their inaction as indifference when, all this time, they were really protecting the environment.
This autumn, Iowa City is officially recommending that residents leave our leaves alone. Iowa City climate ambassador Robert Traer explained to The Daily Iowan, “In fact, it becomes an opportunity of an incubating environment for this whole world of insect and microorganism life.” (Because, if there is anything our gardens need, it’s more bugs and mold.)
Plus, this environmentally friendly approach to street maintenance may also explain the city’s rationale for not plowing their alleys after a blizzard. Maybe the snow helps nourish the organic gravel?
In any case, I am delighted to have an excuse to not rake my leaves this fall. There have been numerous studies extolling the benefits of allowing leaves to decay naturally. Composted leaves replenish nutrients in the soil, they help prevent weeds from sprouting in the spring and can insulate root vegetables like carrots, kale and leeks. Also, according to a study by Public Interest Network, in 2020, emissions from Iowa gas-powered leaf blowers and garden tractors produced 247,179 metric tons of carbon dioxide.
And there are lots of things you can do with your dead leaves. You could pile them up and jump on them. Wouldn’t that be fun? You could pick out the most colorful ones and glue them to your bedroom walls like wallpaper.
You could use the leaves to stuff a scarecrow for Halloween. It might not scare crows, but just imagine the calls you will get from neighbors. “I don’t want to alarm you but there is some creepy guy just smiling on your porch swing. He hasn’t moved in hours!” Or, “I couldn’t help noticing how nice and clean your lawn looks. If the landscaper resting on the porch swing is done at your house, could you send him over here?”
Getting out of work in the name of ecology is a principle I could live by. So, I really ought to protect the spiderwebs in my house because where there are spiderwebs, there are spiders and spiders eat insects. I don’t want a lot of insects in my house. Unless they’re spiders. Friendly spiders. (But not too friendly.)
Sure, I could vacuum up the dust and little pet hair tumbleweeds that accumulate in the dark corners. Except that they provide a natural habitat for dust mites. And what’s a dust mite without its dust? It’s just a mite. Wouldn’t that be kind of sad?
I’ve notice that when I ignore most household chores, after a while, they seem to take care of themselves. Take leaves, for example. This year, there was a thick blanket of sycamore leaves on our lawn. Then a 50-mile-an-hour wind swept them all to Cedar County. Now it’s their problem.
There’s a lot to be thankful for in our communities this year.
One of the big ones for this newspaper is Mount Vernon beginning the first steps on investigating a possible child care addition to the Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center. For the past two years, the work of the Childcare Solutions Group of the League of Women Voters has highlighted how significant an issue this is to our community, and that even with the expansion of Lisbon Early Childcare Center to a west location, there is still a waitlist and a need in this community.
We agree with city administrator Chris Nosbisch that this center alone may not fix the issue in the communities, and that the city may not be the entity who ends up running the center, but the catalyst to get this started for this community. We also agree, however, that if we don’t do something, we’re going to continue a pattern of stagnant enrollment and growth in our communities, as we can’t attract young families to live and work in a community without childcare options. And even if it doesn’t seem economically feasible for an addition, we at least know that as well.
We commend the ongoing work of the school, city, Cornell
College and Childcare Solutions Group to keep this issue on focus in our community and working towards making sure this is a priority that is addressed in Mount Vernon and Lisbon.
A paving project addressed the stretch of Business 30 between Mount Vernon and through most of Lisbon, as prices finally came back to within reason of engineer estimates. It’s one of the smoothest roads in the communities of Mount Vernon and Lisbon now, and those millings helped to pave a number of alleys in Lisbon as well.
This weekend is also the second Shop Small Saturday for Mount Vernon and Lisbon area businesses. We think Anna Wilson hit it on the head in a conversation with the editor the other day – People always worry so much about making all their purchases locally, when it is just as simple as starting small to get that ball rolling. If we don’t want a town that has big box retailers and want the small town environment we have in the uptown, we owe it to them to shop small starting today.
This list could be a whole lot longer, for sure. At the end of the day we’re thankful for you as readers and what you all do for this community.
Bridging the gap: How Kirkwood Community College blends traditional degrees and jobspecific training to serve our community
Jasmine Almoayyed Vice President of Continuing Education and Training, Kirkwood Community College
In today’s rapidly changing economy, traditional pathways to education and employment are evolving, and Kirkwood Community College is at the forefront of this transformation. In addition to offering standard degree programs, we are deeply committed to bridging the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that our students are equipped with theoretical knowledge and practical skills required in today’s workforce. This blending of traditional degrees and job-specific training allows us to address the unique needs of students and the community.
Kirkwood has long served as an educational solution for a broad range of students. Current high school students earn credentials through our dual enrollment programs, and our community-based English as a Second Language programs serve hundreds with varying skill and literacy levels, helping them attain language proficiency, join the workforce, and thrive in our communities. Our high school completion programs provide foundational knowledge and remove barriers for hundreds of adults annually, supporting them in earning the high school diplomas they need for employment.
While we are best known for our two-year degree programs, which serve students aiming to transfer to fouryear institutions, and for our skilled graduates in career and technical education programs, many are unaware of the thousands of working professionals we serve.
Our partnerships with local businesses and industries allow us to continuously update our programs to reflect real-time market demands. Through customized training, apprenticeship programs, and a wide array of certificates, credentials, and courses offered through our Continuing Education division, we work closely with employers to identify skills gaps and emerging technologies that require specialized workforce. This adaptive approach
has been essential in fields such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and information technology, where skills evolve quickly. It also supports employers in fields with specialized skills unmet by traditional education programs or where licensures require ongoing education to stay current with industry needs.
One of Kirkwood’s unique strengths is our dual approach, which offers both degree and certificate options, allowing students to customize their educational journey. Students in our traditional degree programs can supplement their studies with certifications that provide job-ready skills, while those enrolled in specific training programs can, if they choose, transition into associate degree programs. This flexibility allows students to stack credentials, making them more versatile and adaptable in a job market that values both depth and breadth of expertise.
Our focus on job-specific training programs plays a critical role in meeting the needs of the local economy. As a community college, Kirkwood has a responsibility to our seven-county region to cultivate a workforce that can support the growth and sustainability of local businesses. Through collaboration with regional employers, economic development agencies, and governmental partners, we are helping create job opportunities and economic stability, especially in high-demand fields where skilled workers are scarce. When local businesses have access to skilled talent, they can expand, innovate, and contribute to a more prosperous community. The success stories we hear from students and partners reflect the value of this approach.
At Kirkwood, we believe education is more than a job pathway; it is a bridge connecting individuals to opportunities, families to prosperity, and communities to growth. By blending traditional degrees with job-specific training, we are ensuring our students can navigate the modern workforce and contribute meaningfully to regional success. Having spent the last 16 years in workforce and economic development, I am proud to be part of an institution that so effectively serves our community by preparing individuals not just for jobs but for lifelong careers and personal growth.
Our commitment to bridging this educational gap strengthens Kirkwood’s legacy as a leader in accessible, relevant, and community-focused education.
GUEST COLUMN
Almoayyed
Thank you to MV-L CDG
As we enter the Thanksgiving season of gratitude, I want to mention one group that helps make this area such a great place to live, and that is the Mount Vernon Lisbon Community Development Group (MVL-CDG, or CDG). For those who don’t know, CDG is one organization that covers a lot of civic areas. This includes tourism, Chamber of Commerce, economic development plus a smattering of historical preservation to boot. In other words, they are a force behind a lot of the good stuff that happens here, like assisting with the many festivals, and helping businesses apply and win many state and nation-wide grants/contests for both building improvements & business expansion.
I personally have the privilege of helping with the volunteer appreciation event they put on every summer. These two towns have so many great volunteers, and yet everyone is modest, not wanting the spotlight. CDG gives out several awards, and I am always amazed to hear how much the honorees selflessly do for the community – without ever expecting any recognition for it. It feels so good to be able to give them, and all of the volunteers we have around here, some heartfelt thanks.
CDG also funds it’s own BIG grants to help community businesses get noticed with facades and signs (applications are due in early December!), puts out community surveys to help our businesses, works on expanding the community’s presence on social media. And more.
In November CDG is starting it’s annual appeal for
Mount Vernon’s TIF increases due to higher valuation
Nathan Countryman
Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com
Mount Vernon’s property valuation increased from $348 million to $418 million this past year.
City administrator Chris Nosbich said that increase in valuation has increased the city’s debt capacity for projects moving forward. The city still has to have the ability to repay the debt it takes on, and not all the debt would be taxable.
The increase in valuation increased debt capacity for the city from $16.8 million up to $20 million.
“We keep 20 percent of our debt capacity in reserves in
Softball bleachers being installed this winter
Local donor helps finish softball diamond’s final project
Nathan Countryman
Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com
The final phase of the Van Metre Family Softball Diamond will be installed in the coming weeks, when the new bleachers for the stadium are installed.
Fred Burke helped with the completion of the project, making a $68,000 donation to see new bleachers installed at the softball field.
“When I saw the bleachers were not completed on the softball field, that became my mission to see this done,” Burke said. “You can’t see the entire field with the current bleachers, as these bleachers are not what was intended. The new dugouts impede the view from those bleachers. I met with Dr. Greg Batenhorst quite a few times about this project, so much it became a minor thorn in his side, but it was also a project he wanted to see completed before he retired.”
Mount Vernon activities director Matt Thede said it has
funds. I would like to remind everyone of the great work they’re doing and ask those of you reading this to participate in their annual fundraising drive as best you can. Respond to the fundraising letter when you get it, go online and donate, or contact the new director, Jessie, at the Visitor Center in Mount Vernon to see how you can help.
Your donation will go to keeping so many great events and programs going, and perhaps even help CDG expand their work. It all helps the two towns of Lisbon and Mount Vernon continue to be one community that’s an incredible place to live.
Thank you, Barbara Ihde Lisbon
Spread joy, share life this holiday season!
This December, unwrap the gift of generosity by lending an arm to spread holiday cheer.
Phi Lambda Xi of Cornell College is hosting a blood drive with ImpactLife on campus on Wednesday, December 11 from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. in Thomas Commons, specifically Hall-Perrine.
Text (641) 275-0094 to schedule your appointment or visit online at https://login.bloodcenter.org/donor/ schedules/drive_schedule/129592 today!
Kaylanna
case of emergencies, like the derecho,” Nosbisch said. “Still, we ended the year with roughly $5 million of debt capacity.”
Council member Scott Rose asked if the additional debt capacity might help speed up process on building or bidding a new aquatic center.
“Yes, this theoretically could,” Nosbisch said. “I’d say we have the Hwy. 1 road projects, uptown streetscape projects and child care items that are sitting out there to possibly consider as well.”
The city also had to approve it’s Tax Increment Financing report by Dec. 1 of this year. In that fund, the city anticipates a request of $1,110,346 for the coming year.
Nosbisch said that the city had certified two bonds this year that will span two years in the fund —one for the Glenn Street and Minish Street extension and one for the pool project’s debt to extend the life of the pool for the next 10 years.
“We will see these projects on the budget for fiscal year 2025 and 2026,” Nosbisch said.
The city also has $200,000 in support for a child care building project in the community that they have earmarked.
There are currently eight outstanding notes in the TIF district. One of those projects will fall off in the next fiscal year.
Nosbisch said he is comfortable where the city sits with it’s debt capacity moving forward.
always been the plan to have the new bleachers as part of the project, but the bleachers encountered several hurdles.
“There was the COVID-19 pandemic, which delayed completion of the field,” Thede said. “We also saw increased construction costs.”
When the bleachers were originally to be installed, necessary parts went missing in Mexico. The district also had a wire transfer payment for the bleachers get hacked.
After two years of these setbacks, Thede said the school had to get creative on tackling the project. When the bleachers for the Armstrong Family Activities Complex went out for bid, Thede asked for three bids to be made for the project to include the softball diamond as well.
From there, Burke made the significant donation for the project, and Mount Vernon and Cornell shared the remaining $30,000 for the bleacher construction.
This concludes a project that the late Dave Van Metre had funded in this community with the plans, as he said, to build the “best softball diamond in the Midwest.” Van Metre’s impact to the community contributed to a number of projects that were completed, including Cornell College’s football field renovations and the weight room at the high school before the softball diamond.
The construction of the new softball diamond saw an entire new field, lights, dug outs, cages and fencing around the field.
“It fills the philosophy that Dave Van Metre lived by —’a society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they shall never sit’” Thede said. “Fred will get the chance to sit on those bleachers in the coming seasons at the softball diamond. We as a district are indebted to everyone who has made this facility a reality.”
“Mount Vernon athletes have gotten used to playing on Class A facilities,” Burke said. “I’m glad I was able to make this happen and benefit a facility that Mount Vernon and Cornell share.”
With the seats being installed in December, they will be ready for Cornell softball season beginning in the spring.
Seu Mount Vernon
League of Women Voters discuss transportation in Mount Vernon, Lisbon
Linn County LIFTS provides low-cost transportation option
Nathan Countryman
Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com
The Mount Vernon-Lisbon unit of the Linn County League of Women Voters held a discussion on transportation issues in the communities of Mount Vernon and Lisbon.
Carter Baldwin, director of Linn County LIFTS, said that the group has a contract to provide transportation for people with disabilities in the community of Cedar Rapids.
“Anyone who is unable to ride a city bus in Cedar Rapids is able to utilize our service,” Baldwin said. “We also provide service to the rural areas in Linn County to provide oneway travel from their town to Cedar Rapids.”
LIFTS operates from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and rates are $2 for senior citizens or $6 for regular citizens.
LIFTS has 25 buses they use on a daily basis, and rides from anywhere in Linn County to Cedar Rapids.
Baldwin said prior to the pandemic, LIFTS had a bus that was dedicated to the Mount Vernon and Lisbon communities.
A large percentage of the users of LIFTS at the time were assisted living centers and other group homes, and during the pandemic, many of those institutions started their own transportation services for their residents.
LIFTS fleet of buses went to smaller sized 25 passenger buses that are handicap accessible that have the flexibility to house wheel chairs and walkers.
“Our biggest challenge has been finding the right size of buses that serve different communities,” Baldwin said. “When you think of the transportation in the mornings and evenings, you picture roads full of cars, while at other times of the night or day, there are far fewer cars on the road. That’s similar to the buses. They are full in the mornings and afternoons.”
LIFTS only provides transportation in Linn County.
“If someone needs to get a ride to Iowa City, we will get them a connection to the 380 Express that will get them to that location,” Baldwin said.
Baldwin said that the number of riders in Mount Vernon and Lisbon each month on LIFTS is roughly 10 per month.
“If we saw an increase in users and numbers in Mount Vernon and Lisbon, we could see offering a dedicated route to the communities, like on Tuesdays or Thursdays,” Baldwin said. “The issue we encounter is people trying to use the service are at the whims of availability for their appointments to fall on those days.”
LIFTS also needs at least 24 hours notice of a request to utilize the public transportation, to make sure there is a route that can stop in the community and give someone a ride to Cedar Rapids and a ride back, as needed. They prefer having upwards of five days notice for a ride.
Baldwin did say LIFTS does provide some a way to get to and from work.
“We know that’s a barrier for long-term employment for some,” Baldwin said. “They might see a job in Amana, but they can’t get there without transportation and we can’t drive to Amana, as we only serve Linn County.”
Baldwin said that some employers have created their own shuttle routes to provide employees a way to get to and from work in some rural communities.
Southeast Linn Community Center director Nicole McAlexander said the organization offers transportation services for seniors who live in the Mount Vernon and Lisbon communities. Those rides are provided by funding from Heritage Agency on Aging that reimburses mileage for volunteers. Volunteers offer the rides at no charge, and can give rides to medical appointments or other services seniors need a driver for. As long as volunteers accept no money for their transportation from the rider, they are not considered a taxi.
McAlexander said SELCC is able to provide a driver for 90 percent of the rides needed, but the asks for drivers are increasing and a number of volunteers providing rides are snowbirds.
“If we’re unable to provide a ride, we will work with the person needing one about other options available,” McAlexander said.
McAlexander said they also can’t provide same or next day rides, as they have to make sure a volunteer can take on the ride.
City administrator Chris Nosbisch said that the request for information for rides in Mount Vernon accounts for less than 1 percent of the calls made to city hall.
“Iowans by nature are stubborn and humble at the same time,” Nosbisch said. “If we look at where transportation solutions have been developed, they’ve been facilitated mostly by need. Most Iowans will do everything in our own power to drive ourselves instead of utilizing public transportation.”
Nosbisch, who also sits on the East Central Iowa Council of Government board, said that transportation is one of the tougher issues the organization tackles.
“I know that if Mount Vernon was isolated as a community on its own, we wouldn’t qualify for state dollars to assist our population, as our median income is to0 high,” Nosbisch said. “Providing transportation at the city level is not an efficient use of tax dollars. We don’t have the usership to make that viable, and there are options like LIFTS that fulfill that.”
Nosbisch also said larger cities are starting to see impacts as well.
“DART, the regional bus for Polk County, sees the City of Des Moines as their largest user,” Nosbisch said. “Some of the suburbs have started pulling out of contracts with the bus service there, since they are not seeing the usership other locations see.”
Nosbisch said Mount Vernon and Lisbon are lucky to be in close proximity to Cedar Rapids, and have robust transportation systems available either through LIFTS or SELCC or Corridor Rides who are able to help get people where they need.
How to schedule a ride with LIFTS
To request a ride with LIFTS, call 319-892-5170. The phone is staffed Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on the days holidays are observed.
Any calls made after hours may be left on voicemail and the call will be returned. Until the call is returned, the request will not be scheduled. We must make certain the information is correct before we will make the reservation.
Individuals should schedule rides at least one day prior to but no more than 30 days in advance of the day they need a ride. LIFTS will provide same-day service if space is available.
In order to serve you and others better, you are asked to give the scheduler the following information:
• Rider’s name
• Pick-up address (must be a specific address)
• Drop-off address (must be a specific address)
• Date of trip
• Desired time to be picked up and/or dropped off (please leave plenty of time for the appointment)
• If there will be an attendant or companion accompanying the rider
• If any mobility device will be used
• If a service animal will be used
In addition, the rider should write down the dispatcher’s name, date(s) of trip(s) and trip times. It would be helpful for the rider to confirm this information.
LIFTS may not be able to provide you with a ride for the exact time requested, due to the number of trips requested. LIFTS will always attempt to schedule rides as efficiently and effectively as possible.
The heaviest demand is from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. If you are able to schedule your appointments other than these times, we will be more likely to meet your requested time.
Spots
Community Blood Drive
Phi Lambda Xi of Cornell College will be hosting a blood drive with ImpactLife Wednesday, Dec. 11, from 2 to 6 p.m. in the Hall-Perrine rooms of Thomas Commons.
Text (641) 275-0094 to schedule your appointment or visit online at https://login.bloodcenter. org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/129592
Holiday concerts for Mount Vernon, Lisbon
Holiday concerts are coming up for Mount Vernon and Lisbon Schools.
Lisbon’s junior high choir and band concert is set for Thursday, Dec. 5, 6:30 p.m. at Lisbon Auditorium.
Mount Vernon’s Melodies and Masterpiece concerts for kindergarten and first grade will be held Monday, Dec. 9, at the Mount Vernon Performing Arts Center beginning at 6 p.m.
Mount Vernon’s second and third grade Melodies and Masterpieces will perform Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. at Mount Vernon Performing Arts Center.
Lisbon High School Concert band holiday concert is Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. at Lisbon Auditorium.
Mount Vernon’s fourth grade and orchestra Melodies and Masterpieces show will perform Thursday, Dec. 12, at 6 p.m. at Mount Vernon Performing Arts center.
Lisbon elementary concerts begin Thursday, Dec. 12, at Lisbon Auditorium. First grade performs at 6 p.m., second grade at 6:45 p.m. and third grade at 7:30 p.m.
Lisbon alternative kindergarten and kindergarten concerts are Friday, Dec. 13, beginning at 2 p.m. in the Lisbon Auditorium.
Mount Vernon High School choir, band and orchestra will have holiday concerts at the Mount Vernon Performing Arts Center Sunday, Dec. 15. The event begins at 2 p.m. with the choir, followed by the band then orchestra performances.
Lisbon’s junior high and high school choir concerts are Monday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m. in Lisbon Auditorium.
Fourth, fifth and sixth grade musical concerts are Tuesday, Dec. 17 at Lisbon Auditorium. Fourth graders perform at 6 p.m., fifth graders at 6:45 p.m. and sixth grade at 7:30 p.m.
The Lisbon 4-year-old-preschoolers will have a performance at Lisbon Auditorium at 9 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 19.
Mount Vernon Fine Arts Association presents Christmas with Jim McDonough
The Mount Vernon Fine Arts Association is hosting a holiday concert featuring Jim McDonough Thursday, Dec. 19 at 7 p.m.
The holiday concert features McDonough’s signature piano arrangements of holiday music and timeless favorites in a concert suited for all generations. This special holiday event not only marks McDonough’s first performance at the Mount Vernon Performing Arts Center, but also the first appearance by an International Steinway Artist on the venue’s own Steinway concert grand piano.
“This year’s show promises to be a warm and personal experience for all,” McDonough said. “Similar to my PBS television special, ‘Home for Christmas,’ those in attendance will feel the nostalgia of gathering around the piano to share in our favorite holiday songs and treasured memories.”
Tickets for the event are available at https:// mvhstheatre.ludus.com/.
Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
Chris Nosbisch, Carter Baldwin, Nicole McAlexander and Jane Carlson at the transportation forum at Mount Vernon City Hall.
Girl Scouts holding toy drive for SELCC
Donations of new toys can be made at Dance Arts Iowa Nutcracker performance
Girl Scouts from Service Unit 812 are excited to partner with the SELCC and Dance Arts Iowa to collect new toys for local families this holiday season. Girl Scouts participate in service projects throughout the year to help make our world a better place. This service project adds to efforts of the SELCC to help local families during the holiday season. All items for the Girl Scout Toy Drive can be dropped off at the designated table at the Dance Arts Iowa Nutcracker Performance Dec. 8 at the Mount Vernon High School Performing Arts Center. Girl Scouts will be there collecting donations from 1:30-3:30 pm. They will make sure all donations get to the SELCC.
The Nutcracker performance starts at 2 p.m. and tickets for the performance are $10 at the door for community members wanting to see the show. No ticket necessary to make a donation. If that drop off date is missed, donations can also drop items off at the SELCC during their normal open hours before December 18, 2024.
The SELCC coordinates holiday gifts for 200 local kids through the Adopt-a-Family program and partnerships with many local groups. In addition, donated toys from Toys for Tots, local donations, and donations collected by Girl Scouts will be available December 18-20 at SELCC for community members who are in need of something extra for the children in their lives. Parents and grandparents can come from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 18th and 20th, and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on December 19. These donations from the Girl Scout event stay local and help brighten the holidays for Mount Vernon and Lisbon youth.
Girl Scouts is a national organization dedicated to helping girls develop courage, confidence and character through a variety of activities since 1912. Each Girl Scout Troop is made up of 3-20 girls ages 5-18. A group of troops is called a service unit and our local service unit is 812- made up of over 118 girls from troops in Mt Vernon, Lisbon, Solon and Springville. We have openings for many more girls! For more information or to sign up check out girlscoutstoday.org. Girls ages 5 to 18 and adult volunteers are welcome to sign up. Scholarships for membership are available through the Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois Council if there are financial hardships.
Renovations will limit access to Wickiup Hill Learning Center
December 3-10
Renovations aimed at restoring some Wickiup Hill Learning Center exhibits to their original condition while enhancing the overall visitor experience will take place starting December 3. This project will breathe new life into the displays, ensuring that they accurately reflect the region’s unique ecosystems, biodiversity, and cultural history. “By updating the interactive elements and educational materials, Linn County Conservation’s nature center aims to create a more engaging and informative environment for guests of all ages,” said Kent Rector, Wickiup Hill Learning Center Manager. “We appreciate the public’s patience during this project.”
To facilitate these improvements, all Wickup Hill Learning Center indoor exhibit and display areas will be closed from December 3 to December 10. There will be limited access to the building. Restrooms will still be available for use during normal business hours. Outdoor areas continue to be open sunrise to sunset.
Mount Vernon Lions Club
The Mount Vernon Lions Club met on Wednesday, Nov. 20, at the Local in Mount Vernon. Greg West introduced the speaker for the evening, Mount Vernon High School head volleyball coach Maggie Willems. She talked about the most recent state championship season where the team did not lose a set on the way to the title. She also discussed how the volleyball program coordinates with other sports and activities at the school.
The next lions Club meeting will be the Christmas Party December 18 at Gwen’s in Lisbon.
Club reporter Richard George
MV CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS
Flag policy review held
The Mount Vernon City Council held a review fol lowing a year of the flag policy.
City administrator Chris Nosbisch said that one request was not championed by city council, and one request was vetoed in the middle of the year.
Council member Mark Andreasen said he will be bringing back the request for the flag that was vetoed earlier this year, citing the decision for the veto was to let a whole year elapse before any changes were made.
Council member Craig Engel said it was important to review how the policy was sitting with the council after a year being implemented.
Nosbisch said if the council does review the policy for addition of new flags, he would make a change that removes city administration from making requests to changes to the policy.
“This is the city council to make decisions on what flags should or should not be flown, not city staff,” Nosbisch said.
Nosbisch said there has not been any significant outcry to the flags displayed this first year in the pol icy.
Council member Stephanie West said she had reread the policy and still feels well about the decision.
Mount Vernon approves site plan for First Street business
The City of Mount Vernon approved a site plan for a new business along First Street East. The new busi ness owned by Doug Berner will add office space and contractor equipment storage in the location of the former bowling alley, which is zoned for limited com mercial.
Berner has been working with the council to clean up the area and work on a site plan that progressed through the planning and zoning commission. The planning and zoning commission approved recom mendation of the site plan. The commission asked Berner to have a sanitary sewer line must be televised and connection approved prior to construction beginning. A six foot opaque fence is required along the rear lot line and northwest corner to protect existing residential uses adjacent to the parcel.
Cole Corner
Cathy Boggs Cole Library
Homemade gift ideas in Cole Library books
Many people enjoy giving homemade gifts at holiday time. If this is you then we have many new and tried and Quilting Legacy, Jan and Jim Shore; Sewing for the Home, Vanessa Arbuthnott; Journal with Thread, Jessie Chorley; Block Print for Beginners, Elise Young; Sewing Clothes, Joi Mahon; Modern Day Quilter, Kiley Ferons; A Begin-
Books that we already have in our collection that I Christmas in the Country, Rhonda McCray; Christmas at Buttermilk Basin, Stacy West; Stitches from the Yuletide, Kathy Schmitz; and my all-time favorite Baby Says Sew,
I know you will find inspiration in these books and many others at Cole Library to make your seasons bright.
Thursday, November 28: Closed
Friday, November 29: Closed
Saturday, November 30: Closed
Sunday, December 1: 12pm-10pm
Monday, December 2: 8am-10pm
Tuesday, December 3: 8am-10pm
Wednesday, December 4: 8am-10pm
Thursday, December 5: 8am-10pm
POLICE CALLS
Nov. 18 – Medical, 100 blk E. Market St, Lisbon
Nov. 19 – Motorist assist, Hwy 30, Mount Vernon
There will also need to be streetside landscaping to provide visual and auditory screening from the Mount Vernon cemetery.
All distances need to be properly confirmed in final plans with dimensions noted as well.
Berner said work will begin as soon as his contractor says it is possible to begin.
Nov. 19 – Disturbance, 500 blk business 30, Mount Vernon
Nov. 20 – Suspicious vehicle, Seventh St SE, Mount Vernon
Nov. 20 – Agency assist- road hazard, Hwy 30, Linn Co
Nov. 20 – Medical, 400 blk B Ave NE, Mount Vernon
Nov. 21 – Disturbance, 100 blk Market St, Lisbon
Nov. 22 – Welfare check, 1100 blk Abbe Hills Rd, Mount Vernon
Nov. 23 – Car unlock, 900 blk Commercial St, Lisbon
Nov. 23 – Suspicious vehicle, 1225 blk First Ave NW, Mount Vernon
Nov. 24 – Suspicious vehicle, 200 blk First St NE, Mount Vernon
Nov. 24 – Suspicious activity, 300 blk S. Washington St, Lisbon
SPORTS
Chloe Meester named VB player of the year
Ryan Suchomel
Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com
Back in August, before the Mustangs started their march to 45 wins and a Class 3A state championship, Mount Vernon coach Maggie Willems gave senior Chloe Meester a word.
LEAD.
“I knew that Chloe continuing to develop as a leader was important for our team to be able to do what we ultimately did this season,” Willems said.
So, in addition to her thunderous attacks and solid all-around play, Meester tried to deliver for the Mustangs in other ways.
“I definitely had to work on it,” Meester said. “At first it was really hard. It was hard to always stay positive when things don’t go your way.
“You get stuck sometimes, but you have to lead them out.”
By the time the playoffs began, Meester wrote the word on her forearm, to remind her she had more to do than just bump, set and spike.
“Chloe is a middle daughter, and has wonderful middle child tendencies,” Willems said. “She is deeply caring and loves to have fun. And she probably isn’t someone that wanted to tell someone what to do.
“For her to learn how to tactfully ask certain things of her teammates, or to create energy, and most important lead through adversity … she managed her own frustrations and helped her teammates, too.”
Mount Vernon, after finishing runner-up at state a year ago, swept its way through the 3A state field this fall. Meester averaged 4.8 kills per set and hit at a .461 efficiency on the season.
Last week, Meester was named the Player of the Year in Iowa, regardless of class. She was the 3A Player of the Year, too, an honor she repeated from 2023. She was told by her Willems between classes.
“Coach stopped me in the hallway,” Meester said. “When she showed me … ‘Dang! I didn’t think I’d get it.’”
A pretty good year often comes with some pretty good postseason honors.
Meester was also on the 8-player IGCA Elite All-State Team, as was senior hitter Sydney Maue.
Meester and Maue were joined on the 3A All-State team by senior setter Sydney Huber. Senior Paige Schurbon was a third-team all-state pick.
Willems was the 3A Coach of the Year.
Meester, Huber, Maue and Schurbon were also all first team in the Class 3A Northeast District. And Willems was District Coach of the Year.
“I can lead a team to win it all,” Meester said. “It’s about being positive and supporting others. They will work hard and support you, too. Which my team did.”
GIRLS’ WRESTLING
MV girls place second at Wilton Invite
Lisbon girls’ place 11th
Ryan Suchomel
Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com
Last season, Mount Vernon and Lisbon wrestlers were on the same team. On Saturday, Nov. 23, the separate girls’ programs finished second and 11th at the Wilton Invitational.
“We brought nine girls and seven scored, so I was pleased to finish second,” Mount Vernon coach Trevor Trende said. “We competed at a very high level and scored lots of points.”
Mid-Prairie won the 14-team event with 182 points. The Mustangs had 155 and were followed by Wilton with 153.5. Lisbon scored 67.
The Mustangs had three champions – freshman Kate Martin at 110, junior Gracie Pinckney at 170 and senior Libby Dix at 190.
“Gracie and Libby took care of business,” Trende said. “Kate got her name in the rankings, so we’re excited for her.”
Pinckney beat second-ranked Samantha Lyons of Fairfield in the finals, 3-2.
Dix, who wrestled through a minor injury Saturday, got her 100th career win. She is the first Mount Vernon girls’ wrestler to accomplish the feat.
“Quite a milestone,” Trende said. “With hopefully man
SEASON PREVIEW
MOUNT VERNON
Coach: Trevor Trende (third season)
2023-24 results: Third in WaMaC Tournament
Returning letter-winners (7): Kiersten Swart, jr., 115; Gracie Pickney, jr., 170; Libby Dix, sr., 190; Carly Elliott, jr., 105; Maci Stoner, so., 170; Addy Whisner, jr., 145; Kaylee Kintzel, jr., 155.
Outlook: The Mustangs return state champion Libby Dix and third-place Kiersten Swart and state-qualifier Gracie Pickney to build around in their first season separated from Lisbon. Mount Vernon is dealing with a less-crowded wrestling room, “but we are holding our own,” Trende said. “When people get healthy, we’ll be close to a full lineup.”
Junior Addy Whisner returns after finishing one match short of state last year. And a few freshmen could make a big impact this winter, as well.
“The middle school program has really helped with the development of the girls,” Trende said. “I’m super excited.” That group includes freshman Kate Martin at 110 pounds and Josie Panos, who is wrestling up a weight at 235. “They are capable of finishing on the (state) podium,” Trende said.
LISBON
Coaches: Seth Hall and Cassie Bowdre (first season)
2023-24 result: First season
Returning letter-winners (1): Lillian Gaiser, sr., 125
Outlook: Lisbon decided to start its own girls wrestling program after sharing with Mount Vernon for the first two years. Former boys’ assistant Seth Hall and former junior high coach Cassie Bowdre are co-coaching the Lions this year.
The Lions aren’t starting from scratch, but will have some growing pains early on.
“We’re further ahead than I was expecting,” Hall said. “And the girls are learning pretty quick.”
Hall said there are 12 girls in the wrestling room and 11 on varsity. Seniors Addie Clark and Lillian Gaiser are the team captains.
A number of freshmen will compete, including Emma Dietsch, who was state AAU runner-up in eighth grade.
more to come.”
Kiersten Swart (115) and Addi Whisner (145) placed second and Josie Panos (235) was third.
“Kiersten lost to the No. 1 girl in the state,” Trende said. “It was a tough loss, but it is good to get that competition early in the season.”
Reanah Utterback of Sigourney-Keota pinned Swart in the championship.
Lisbon’s top finisher was freshman Emma Dietsch, who placed second at 155. Senior Lillian Gaiser (125) was third.
“We had wrestled Tuesday at Sigourney, and while the team score didn’t show it, they picked up on a lot of improvements Saturday at Wilton,” Lisbon co-coach Seth Hall said. “It was a pretty tough field with ranked girls all over the place.”
Wilton Tournament Team scores – 1. Mid-Prairie 182; 2. Mount Vernon 155; 3. Wilton 153.5; 4. Anamosa 112; 5. Davenport West 103; 6. Tipton 98; 7. Columbus 94; 8. Davenport Assumption 85.5; 9. Fairfield 74.5; 10. Center Point-Urbana 72; 11. Lisbon 67; 12. Sigourney-Keota 63; 13. Durant 51; 14. Iowa City High 37. MOUNT VERNON
110 – Kate Martin, 4-0, first. 115 – Kiersten Swart, 2-1, second. 125 – Alexa Glaza, 4-1, fifth. 145 – Addi Whisner, 2-1, second. 170 – Gracie Pinckney, 3-0, first. 170 – Lydia Woods, 2-2, sixth. 190 – Libby Dix, 2-0, first. 190 – Dottie Korte, 2-1, fifth. 235 – Josie Panos, 2-1, third. LISBON
105 – Ann Marie Morgan, 0-2. 115 – Gracie Cummings, 0-2. 120 – Jordyn Jarchow, 02. 125 – Lillian Gaiser, 3-1, third. 130 – Carlee Turkington, 1-2. 140 – Alina Mallie, 3-1, fifth. 145 – Addison Clark, 2-2. 155 – Emma Dietsch, 2-1, second. 155 – Kaylee Jordan, 1-2, fourth. 235 – Shyanne Carne, 3-2, sixth.
Sigourney-Keota Tournament
Team scores – 1. Pekin 132; 2. West Liberty 123.5; 3. Newton 105; 4. Sigourney-Keota 79; 5. Grinnell 76; 6. Clear Creek Amana 67; 7. East Union 64; 8. North Mahaska 63; 9. Lisbon 57; 10. Lone Tree 52; 11. Moravia 48; 12. Oskaloosa 47; 13. Waco 35; 13. Washington 35; 15. Southeast Warren 34; 16. Louisa-Muscatine 26.5; 17. Pleasantville 22; 18. Tri-County 17. LISBON
105 – Ann Marie Morgan, 0-5. 120 – Jordan Jarchow, 1-2, fourth. 130 – Lillian Gaiser, 2-1, third. 135 – Carlee Turkington, 0-2. 140 –Alina Mallie, 0-2. 145 – Addison Clark, 0-2. 155 – Emma Dietch, 2-1, third. 170 – Kaylee Jordan, 2-3, fourth. 235 – Shyanne Crane, 0-3, fourth.
South Tama Invitational
Team scores – 1. Vinton-Shellsubrg 215.5; 2. South Tama 179; 3. Solon 156.5; 4. West Delaware 132.5; 5. Benton 126; 6. Mount Vernon 115; 7. Williamsburg 114.5; 8. Iowa Valley 82; 9. AP/GC 75; 10. Center Point-Urbana 72; 11. BGM 63; 12. Grinnell 57; 13.
Joel Kellar | For the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun Mount Vernon’s Chloe Meester (No. 16) spikes down a ball at the state tournament. Meester was named player of the year in Iowa this year, as well as Class 3A player of the year.
Sun File photos
Above: Mount Vernon’s Kiersten Swart grapples with an opponent last season. Swart placed second at the meet in Wilton, losing to the number 1 ranked wrestler in the state in the 115-pound division. Left: Mount Vernon’s Libby Dix dominates an opponent from last season. Dix placed first in 190 pounds at Wilton.
Ogden 44; 14. BCLUW 39; 15. AGWSR 26; 16. Meskwaki 18; 17. Union 3. MOUNT VERNON 110 – Katie Martin, 2-1, second. 115 – Kiersten Swart, 3-1, second. 125 – Alexa Glaza, 1-3, eighth. 145 – Addi Whisner, 3-1, third. 170 – Lydia Woods, 0-3, eighth. 190 – Libby Dix, 3-0, first. 235 – Josie Panos, 3-1, third.
One of the team: Gunnar Fishler’s kicks a tradition for Mustangs
It’s a warm, clear homecoming night at Mount Vernon High School. The student section stands are packed shoulder-to-shoulder. It’s a white-out. Players jump up and down, wave their hands and do anything they can to fire up the home crowd.
But the loudest cheer of the night occurs when the Mustangs’ senior kicker Gunnar Fishler walks onto the field. He is the shortest player, but might have the biggest heart. From an early age, Fishler has struggled with balance and coordination issues. He needs a walker to help him move. With each step he takes toward midfield, his walker shines under the Friday night lights. And the cheers grow louder.
Fishler’s parents say there has never been an official diagnosis. But his challenges haven’t stopped him from participating in one of the things he loves most – sports.
“Usually he is, I would say, pretty active,” Gunnar’s dad, Frank Fishler, said, “but he gets tired easy.”
A love for sports – football specifically – came naturally to Gunnar Fishler. He grew up cheering for the Iowa Hawkeyes and Seattle Seahawks. Russell Wilson is his favorite player, so naturally, he now roots for the Pittsburgh Steelers. His father is an assistant baseball coach at Cornell College.
Gunnar, an only child, played adaptive baseball while he was growing up because his parents valued the lessons sports can bring. When Gunnar reached middle school, his parents urged him to continue in team sports.
Bob Haugse, the principal at Mount Vernon Middle School, brought up the idea of football. The Fishlers thought about it, went home and presented the idea to Gunnar. He was ecstatic.
“He liked to kick,” Frank said. “So, we decided that a controlled special kick would help him to play and be a part of the game day.”
Fishler played two years for Mount Vernon Middle School before making the transition to high school. With the help of high school principal Steve Brand and athletics director Matt Thede, Gunnar joined the junior varsity team his freshman year. After two years on JV, Fishler moved up to the varsity team last season.
MVFB players earn postseason honors
Ryan Suchomel
Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com
Mount Vernon which went 5-0 in Class 3A, District 4 play, and swept the district postseason honors.
“We have a lot of well-deserving kids,” Mount Vernon
Meester named All-American Mount Vernon senior Chloe Meester was named an American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) first team All-American.
Meester, the Player of the Year in Iowa, had 575 kills and hit at a .461 efficiency as a senior while leading the Mustangs to a Class 3A state title. She will play next fall for Louisville.
Meester was the only first-team pick from Iowa. Reagan Hanfelt of Ankeny was a third-team pick. Brooke Larsen, Council Bluffs Lewis Central; Delaney Miller, Ankeny Centennial; and Jaeden Pratt, Ankney Centennial, earned honorable mention.
Swart honored twice by IATC
Mount Vernon-Lisbon cross country coach Kory Swart was honored by the Iowa Association of Track Coaches (IATC) as a Class 3A At-Large Coach of the Year for both boys and girls.
The IATC awards a State Coach of the Year in each class, and each gender, then five At-Large Coaches of the Year.
The Coach of the Year for 3A girls was Douglas Cutler of Pella and 3A boys was Aaron Thomas of Gilbert. Both won state titles.
Every game the Mustangs play – home or away – often begins with Fishler’s right foot striking the ball. Technically, the kick is ceremonial. Mount Vernon has reached an agreement with each of its opponents to allow Fishler to kick the ball without anyone on the field. It’s like a celebrity throwing out the first pitch in baseball. Following the kick, the ball is re-spotted at the 40-yard line, where senior Bennett Harp handles kicking duties.
But don’t let anyone in Mount Vernon tell you Fishler’s kick doesn’t count. The cheer from the crowd each time his right foot connects with the ball is one of the loudest of the night. Players celebrate like it’s the biggest play of the game, huddling around Fishler, giving him high-fives and tapping him on the helmet. Smiles fill the Mount Vernon bleachers.
Frank Fishler insists Gunnar doesn’t get nervous when he walks onto the field for Friday night football games. He has his own gameday routine, heading home after school, eating his pregame classic McCrispy from McDonald’s, and then starting to focus on his goals for the night.
Because there are goals. From the very beginning, Gunnar set the goal for himself of kicking the ball 10 yards. In high school, it started happening. And then on Oct. 4 this season, something historic. During an away game against Davenport Assumption, Gunnar walked onto the field, lined up for his kick, bent his right leg back and thrust it forward as fast as he could. When the ball stopped rolling it landed 15 yards downfield.
A personal best.
The special teams players, lined up next to him, ran over and slapped him on the helmet. A few embraced him. As Gunnar came back to the sidelines, the entire team surrounded him with hugs and high-fives.
“Attaboy, Gunnar!”
“Nice kick, Gunnar!”
“Way to go, Gunnar!”
Gunnar couldn’t escape a compliment. But all he could look for was his family.
“I was thinking about them in the stands,” Gunnar said. “I just wanted to get a powerful kickoff. It pumps up my teammates.”
Now, even as Mount Vernon’s season ended in the Class 3A playoff semifinals, Gunnar’s impact to the school and community are clear.
Coach Brad Meester said. “And the district was good about it. They knew we had tons of good players.”
Offensive Player of the Year went to junior utility Jase Jaspers. Jaspers had 250 rushing yards and 2 TDs on 57 carries, a team-best 59 catches for 867 yards and 8 touchdowns.
“When a team has to game plan for a guy, that makes him special,” Meester said. “Jase can do about everything. He’s a weapon.”
Defensive Player of the Year went to junior linebacker Jaxon Anderson. He led the team with 70 tackles, including 49 solo stops. He had 14 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks and one interception (returned for a TD).
“He commands the defense,” Meester said. “Our D-line was so good, sometimes the running back doesn’t even get to the second level.”
Offensive Lineman of the Year went to senior Josef Briesmeister. Meester said he didn’t allow a sack during district play.
Lisbon’s Ries earns ‘You Can’ Award
Lisbon senior Kayla Ries was nominated for the E. Wayne Cooley “You Can” Award by her coach Lance Kamaus. Kamaus wrote: “Despite limited playing time, Kayla is one of the unquestioned leaders of our team. She is a respected voice among her peers and practices what she preaches.”
3 Lions named academic all-state
Three Lisbon volleyball players -- Kolsie Bixler, Madison Flockhart and Kaitlynn Hasselbusch -- were honored as academic all-state recently by the IGCA.
In previous years, players needed a minimum score of 27 on the ACT and a 3.75 GPA to qualify.
Meester, Eagles play at nationals
The Kirkwood Eagles wrapped up their season this past week, going 2-2 at the NJCAA Division II Championships at the Alliant Energy Powerhouse in Cedar Rapids.
Sophomore Emma Meester, a Mount Vernon grad, played in 43 of the 44 matches this season for Kirkwood (36-8). Playing at outside hitter, she averaged 2.22 kills per set and attacked at a .231 efficiency.
“He’s at everything. He literally shows up at everything.” Thede said, shaking his head with a laugh. “And everyone can see that.”
Ever since Gunnar arrived at Mount Vernon, he’s formed a special relationship with the school’s athletics director.
“I see him during the day, and we joke about racing down the hallway,” Thede said with a smile. “We talk about baseball, joke about the Cubs and Cardinals. It’s always just a joy when you see him.”
This is not your average student-teacher relationship. Gunnar has made a bigger impact on his teacher than he’ll ever know.
“Gunnar always brings those things back to me. Like, why we even do sports,” Thede said.
He paused for a moment, glancing at the bench where Gunnar sat.
“Everybody is unique in every battle they fight in life. It’s just a great life reminder every time I see him,” Thede said. Through therapies and, according to Frank, hard work, Gunnar is progressing steadily. Post-high school, Gunnar has plans to attend a transitional school. While he’s still uncertain about what exactly he wants to do, Gunnar has thought about staying in sports, perhaps even following in his father’s footsteps as a coach.
For Frank and Meg, this fall has been a season of lasts for them as well. Just like Gunnar, they’re trying to soak in every minute that remains of their son’s high school football career.
“I’m going to miss seeing him come out here every Friday night just being embraced by the community,” Frank said. “And when he comes out, having that ambition to kick the ball 10 yards.”
“Multiple times Joe had a guy 20 yards down the field,” Meester said.
Defensive Lineman of the Year went to senior Kael Riniker. He was second on the team in tackles with 45.5, including 33 solo, 28 tackles for loss, plus a team-best and state-best 15 sacks.
“A nose guard that quick off the ball makes it tough for the offense,” Meester said.
Those four were also first-team all-district picks, along with QB Kellen Haverback, jr.; WR/TE Watson Krob, sr.; RB Cooper Hird, sr.; OL Aaron Bellamy, sr.; DL Nova Lane, sr.; DB Michael Ryan, jr.; DB AJ McDermott, sr.; P Bennett Harp, sr.; DEF UT Ethan Wood, sr.
Second-team laurels went to WR/TE Cole Thurn, sr.; OL Brody Nosek, sr.; DL Tyler Williams, sr.; LB Caysen Curran, jr.; and DB Luke Paulus, sr.
In total, Mount Vernon had 18 players honored. Jaspers was also honored as a first-team return specialist in addition to his first-team offensive utility spot.
Clark, Rhomberg honored by A-R-C
Former Lisbon standout Cole Clark was a second-team American Rivers Conference pick at linebacker.
Clark, a junior at Central College, finished second on the team with 81 total tackles, including 8.5 tackles for loss. He also had 2.5 sacks, one interception and one quarterback hurry.
Former Mount Vernon star Joey Rhomberg was an A-R-C honorable mention pick at quarterback. Rhomberg, a freshman, was 158 for 239 passing for 1,650 yards with 22 touchdowns and 5 interceptions for the University of Dubuque. He also ran for 38 yards and punted twice.
Mustang girls play in exhibition
No. 2 Mount Vernon (3A) played a girls’ basketball exhibition game against No. 8 (4A) Cedar Rapids Xavier on Saturday.
The Saints won, 61-52.
With volleyball winning a state championship, most of the group only had a few practices under their belt before taking the court.
Freshman Savanna Wright led the team with 18 points.
Senior Sydney Huber had 12 points.
Up next is one that counts, a Rivalry Saturday game against No. 1 Estherville-Lincoln Central at 12:20 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, at Kirkwood.
Avery Arens | For the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun Gunnar Fishler prepares to kick the football earlier this season at a Mount Vernon home football game.
Avery Arens For the Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
HappyHolidays
Ability Physical Therapy
The gift of relaxation and massage
Ability Physical Therapy will once again be offering their massage special buy three gift cards get one free. This offer starts Nov. 29 and goes through Dec. 31. With this of fer you will have the opportunity to help fill some stockings along with give yourself the gift of relaxation. Massage therapy is offered at their Mount Vernon, Solon, Marion, and Center Point offices by a licensed massage therapist.
Anbriette’s Pet Salon
Pamper your cat or dog
Anbriette’s Pet Salon has a range of gifts for the four-legged friends in your family. Pet sweaters, shampoos, collars, toys and delicious treats are all available at the salon. If you can’t make up your mind, Anbriette’s offers gift certificates, too. Call the salon to schedule a pet grooming appointment as well. Anbriette’s is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. Call (319) 895-6128 or (319)-551-6131 to schedule an appointment for pet grooming.
Back Porch Pickers and Artisans
Hundreds of vendors
“A little bit of everything.”
That’s how Ann Dew-Hansen describes what you can find at Back Porch Pickers and Artisans in Mount Vernon.
The business has more than 100 different vendors with their own little booths and shops to sell.
“We have unique and varied antique items, collectibles, and hand made items that can be found in doors,” Dew-Hansen said.
The store is open 7 days a week. Visit the shop Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8, for the holiday open house and the Great Gnome Hunt that takes place throughout the store. Three gnomes will be hidden throughout the booths in the store, with those who find them winning gift certificates for the store.
The shop will also be taking part in Shop Small Saturday on Nov. 30, with booth wide sales and gift give aways.
The store is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, and open Christmas eve from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Some of their newest attractions include a vintage candy booth, that features nostalgic candies and sodas.
With more than 10,000 square feet of vendors, there is plenty of variety to find, including home goods, decorations, jams and jellies and more.
“Shopping here is supporting hundreds of small businesses this holiday season,” Dew-Hansen said.
The shop is open Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. and is located at the corner of Hwy. 1 North and Sixth Street N.E. in Mount Vernon.
Bauman and Company
Quality apparel for any occasion
For more than 100 Christmases, Bauman’s has been helping holiday shoppers pick out the perfect gifts and this year is no exception!
“Bauman’s has introduced some exciting new items this year, including a signature scent for women, adding to our popular men’s cologne,” said Olivia Randall, co-owner of Bauman’s. “We’ve also brought in Taos shoes and Nocs water proof binoculars, which are perfect for birding, along with Brighton and Wooden Element jewelry for unique gift options.”
Randall says customers can also expect to find stylish and comfortable casual wear, including 7 Diamonds apparel for
both men and women, perfect for gifting.
Camp Craft Cocktails is another standout option, offering a creative and delicious way to enhance holiday gatherings.
Bauman’s will be participating in Shop Small Saturday Nov. 30, with extended hours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and be open until 8 p.m. on Magical Night, Thursday, Dec. 5. Both events will feature complimentary hot drinks and free gift wrapping to make your shopping experience even more festive. Additionally, Bauman’s will be open the two Sundays before Christmas, from noon to 4 p.m., to help with all your last-minute holiday needs.
Hours for the store are Monday-Wednesday & Friday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Brothers Market
Stocking stuffers, coffee, jams and more
Brothers Market is primed to offer a variety of gifts this holiday season.
The grocery store in Lisbon has all sorts of chocolate and candies, perfect to stuff stockings this holiday season. They also feature popcorn, grown here in Iowa, a wide selection of Amish Wedding canned foods, including jellies, pickled beets, salsas and fruits, meat and cheese trays and fruit baskets, ready to order. Just call Brothers Market to get one of these holiday essentials ready.
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Cabin Coffee, located inside Brothers, also has a variety of mugs and tumblers, with designs for the Mount Vernon Mustang, Lisbon Lion and Cornell Ram fan in your life.
The store offers a gift card kiosk, with gift cards to restaurants and businesses across the Midwest. And if you are still unsure if that would be helpful to the people on your shopping list, Brothers Market offers gift cards to the grocery store as well.
Caroline’s Flowers for All occasions
Caroline’s Flowers for all Occasions offers more than flowers
Caroline Kelly notes that she has several new items on her store shelves, including some exclusive items no one else in Iowa has. Prices range in gifts from $2 to $200, with many
between $2 and $30.
Her hours are Mondays through Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will be open Shop Small Saturday. Call Caroline at 319-651 5678 if you want to come in anytime during off-hours. The shop is located at 601 First Avenue S.W. (the corner of Hwy. 1 and Palisades Road) in Mount Vernon.
Craft Bazaar and bake sale
Shop for baked goods and homemade crafts
The long-running Mount Vernon Craft Bazaar and Bake Sale will kick off Magical Night, Thursday, Dec. 5, from 5-8 p.m., at Mount Vernon City Hall in uptown Mount Vernon. The Craft Bazaar and Bake Sale will also be open from 1-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Drawings for door prizes will be held.
Dance Arts Iowa
Gift of dance, Nutcracker performance Dec. 8
Dance Arts Iowa gives students several opportunities to learn the art and sport of dance.
The instructors at Dance Arts Iowa offer ten different styles of dance, as well as tumbling classes for students.
Dance Arts Iowa is open to both boys and girls to learn, and they also sell dancewear for all
The group also has two opportunities to catch them in the coming weeks. Dancers will be performing at a Living Window in Abbe Creek Gallery from 5-6:30 p.m. during Magical Night Thursday, Dec. 5. The dances will include holiday dances from younger students, Spanish Dancer from the Dance Arts Iowa performance of the Nutcracker.
There is also the opportunity to catch Dance Arts Iowa’s performance of the holiday classic “The Nutcracker” Sunday, Dec. 8, at 2 p.m. at Mount Vernon Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased in advance at danceartsiowa@ gmail.com or can be purchased at the door.
Elite Fitness
Membership discounts, Cyber Monday deals Elite Fitness conveniently offers day, week, and month passes for family members coming home for the holidays! Open 24/7/365, it’s the best spot to stay fit this holiday season. Elite Fitness is offering 15% off paying for a year upfront on Black Friday. Trainer Joe Klein BA, ACSM-CPT, EP-C, PN-1, is willing to work with you to meet your fitness goals.
On Cyber Monday- Elite is offering 5% off gift cards, Buy 4 get 1 personal training, $20 off Resting Metabolic Rate test. For more information, visit www. eliltefitnessiowa.com
Fuel Coffee
Fuel is excited to offer holiday goods and specialty shopping for our 20th year
The shop is brimming with old favorites including National
Parks outdoor wear and gift items, our best-selling Nepalese mittens and gloves, and a wide selection of journals and cards. New items include felt puppets, Mount Vernon glassware, and new jewelry designs. These and an array of items encircle the heart of Fuel - the coffee counter - where seasonal coffees, ciders, and sodas rule the holidays accompanied by Pat’s baked goods drawn fresh from the oven all day long.
Stop in, make yourself at home for a spell, and enjoy Fuel’s holiday surroundings. We look forward to seeing you.
Hands in Harmony
If you’re looking for a way to relax this holiday season, Hands in Harmony and Angel’s Nest have you covered They have plenty of windchimes and sun catchers in stock.
The store is also a great location to get facials or waxing treatments. If the stress of the holidays is getting to you, schedule a massage or couples mas sage at the store.
If you don’t know what to look for, they always have gift cards readily available as well.
Watch the store for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday specials this year.
Hands in Harmony is located in uptown Mount Vernon at 104 First Street West or can be found at myhih.com to book massage appointments
Iron Leaf Press
Stationery, holiday greetings, and more
Iron Leaf Press is heading into their third year at their new location, next to First Street Community Center.
At 113 First St. NE, Suite A, you’ll find holiday cards, specialty pens and pencils, and gifts for the stationery enthusiast. You’ll also find a selection of small gifts and ornaments as well as fun stocking stuffers for all ages.
Stop in during Small Business
Saturday on November 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and during Magical Night on Dec. 5, along with their regular hours throughout the holidays. And their online shop is available 24/7, with local delivery available.
Lynch Ford Chevrolet
Oil changes, gift certificates and vehicle pick-up and drop-off
If you’re looking for a gift that will pay off all year round, Lynch Ford Chevrolet is selling gift certificates.
They can be used for an oil change or light maintenance in Lynch’s no-appointment needed Quick Lane.
Shuttle service is available if you need to get back to work or home while your vehicle is in the shop, and they’ll even come
to pick-up and deliver your vehicle following car maintenance ser vice.
Lynch Ford Chevrolet services all makes and models of vehicles, and every service visit comes with a complimentary car wash and vacuum.
Mount Vernon Bank and Trust
Grateful for local businesses
This holiday season, we’re grateful for so many awesome local businesses. We hope you check out all of the local offerings as you shop for gifts. And if you’re looking for a great local bank, stop in and see us.
Mount Vernon Insurance Agency
Safe and happy holidays
Mount Vernon Insurance Agency wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday this holiday season.
Silver Spider
Gifts for everyone on your list
No matter who you need to get a gift for, odds are you’ll find something at Silver Spider in uptown Mount Vernon.
Enjoy perusing the shelves, where you’ll find magnets, scarves, scrunchies, mittens, socks, mugs, books, kitchen towels, action figures, journals, sunglasses and jewelry. Pokemon cards, stickers and other stocking stuffers are among some of the newer offerings this year as well.
Check out the back room for toys, puzzles and games geared toward the younger set, such as plush toys, squish es, craft kits, lots of stickers and activity pads.
If you can’t decide, a gift card to Silver Spider is always a great idea as well.
Southeast Linn Community Center
Support pantry, less fortunate with many options this holiday season
Southeast Linn Community Center encourages people to keep the center and food pantry in mind this season, and there are numerous ways to help the organization.
The annual campaign for Southeast Linn Community Center kicked off this week. According to director Nicole McAlexander, that campaign and the support from individuals in this community remains the largest single source of SELCC’s budget, with 40 percent of the budget coming from those funds.
“Feeding our neighbors is always a top priority for SELCC. Over the last 5 years we’ve seen a 64% increase in the number of people using the pantry. Each one of them is a valuable member of our community and we are grateful for the donations that make it possible for us to support these neighbors.”
SELCC will distribute 163 Thanksgiv ing food boxes this week and will have roughly the same for Christ mas food boxes. Donors can sponsor a holiday food box for a family this holiday with a donation of $50 to SELCC, or sponsor gift bags for a local senior for a donation of $25.
More than 250 people have been adopted for gifts for the holidays.
SELCC will also be present at the soup supper at United Methodist Church in Mount Vernon for the cookie walk during Magical Night Dec. 5. They will also host a cookie walk as part of Lisbon’s Christmas Night in Lisbon City Hall.
“We’ll have additional toys available Dec. 18 through Dec. 20 for people who aren’t participating in Adopt-A-Family, but need a little extra help with gifts,” McAlexander said.
And a huge thank you to the customers and Gary’s Foods for supporting a round-up for SELCC during the month of November.
“All of these are team efforts and we are so thankful for all of the individuals and organizations who partner with us to make the holidays brighter,” McAlexander said. “St Johns The Baptist Catholic Church provides the Thanksgiving turkeys and UMCMV contributes Christmas hams. Lynch Ford packs all the food boxes. Adopt-a-Family supporters include Lisbon Schools, MV schools, St Johns, Seeds of Faith, UMCMV & First Presbyterian Churches.”
Sparrow Massage Therapy
This holiday season, Sparrow Massage Therapy (located in First Street Community Center’s Second Floor) is excited to help you give the gift of relaxation and wellness
Sparrow Massage Therapy is offering 33% off all electronic gift cards starting at midnight on Black Friday and throughout the day November 30 with the discount code Holiday. It’s the perfect way to treat your loved ones—or yourself.
To accommodate busy schedules and holiday breaks, Sparrow Massage Therapy is offering a wide array of availability throughout the holiday season. Whether you need to unwind
after shopping or take some time for yourself, Stephanie is here to help make the season a little less stressful.
“As a small-town massage therapist, I love supporting our community during the holidays,” said Stephanie Turner, owner of Sparrow Massage Therapy. “Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful gift or a moment of self-care amid the holiday hustle, Sparrow Massage Therapy is here to help.”
Gift cards can be purchased quickly and easily online—making holiday shopping stress-free.
stART to explore creativity
Games, craft supplies and learning experiences
At stART, you can find items that help people express their creativity, explore different types of art and experience.
“It might be hard to pick out craft supplies for someone else, so a gift certificate is a great option,” said Nina Scott. “Five to $25 dollars will go a long way toward craft supplies when you thrift. And, in case you want to keep the crafting mess to a minimum, we do have a range of rental bins available on site so you can work on projects here.”
If you are looking for a more traditional package under the tree, stART also offers a selection of interesting and quality games.
“The games are intended for a variety of ages and interest and can be played alone, in pairs, in groups and for parties,” Scott said. “We also offer unique handmade items. “
Or maybe, you want to give a loved one a chance to experience and grow their art talents. stART has a number of classes
they are offering, including a beginning drawing class, offered for 10-15-year-olds and 15-year-olds to adults. The hour long classes are $10 per session and will be offered at least once a week.
And if your interest isn’t listed here, stop in to let stART know what you want to explore in arts and craft interests. While you’re there, enjoy free coffee at their newly opened coffee bar.
stART will be open for Shop Small Saturday Nov. 30 and their traditional hours during the holiday season (4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon or by appointment at other times). Feel free as well to check out game nights every Wednesday at 7 p.m.
The Local
The Local has a curated retail area with home goods, seasonal home decor, and gift items, along with their holiday cocktails
Their holiday hours are: Tuesday, Wednesday, Fri day and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sun days noon to 4 p.m.
They will be open for Shop Small Saturday, Nov. 30, beginning at 8 a.m.
to 4 p.m. Also, their elf night on Magical Night will be returning again this year from 5 to 8 p.m.
They also host several holiday events for the public, so watch their social media pages for more information.
White Tree Bakery
Get your holiday orders in by
It will be White Tree Bakery’s last Christmas on the corner of First Street and Highway 1, as the business plans to move into the former Palisades Café location at the beginning of the year.
Still, Jen is working on making sure holiday treats and favorites are stocked in the counter, especially for Shop Small Saturday and Magical Night events, which her shop will be open during.
If people want to order a holiday themed box or one of their favorite pies for the Christmas holiday, deadlines for those orders are Friday, Dec. 20.
White Tree Bakery will be closed Christmas day through New Year’s, as they make the move to their new location on First Street Northwest towards the beginning of the year.
Wilkie Liquors
Weekly specials and gift sets
Wilkie Liquors in Mount Vernon is your gift and party headquarters, with a great selection of beers, wines, liquor and accessories.
The store, located at 724 First St. E., will have normal hours throughout the holiday, so stock up on what you need to make your celebrations merry and bright.
Owner Tammy Pitlik said that they’ll be featuring new items weekly at the store, as well as holiday gift sets.
Room 222
Linn County ready for winter weather
The Linn County Secondary Road Department is prepared for the 2024-25 winter season. Part of the preparation is sharing information with residents about the Secondary Road Department’s hours of operation, snow routes, Track-a-Plow technology, and the County snow and ice ordinance and policy Hours of Operation
Regular hours of operation for the Secondary Road Department are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m. These hours may be extended during a snow event to 4 a.m.-6 p.m., including Saturdays and Sundays, at the discretion of the County engineer or designee. Linn County does not operate outside of these maximum hours of operation except in the case of assisting emergency personnel or a declared emergency by the Board of Supervisors or Governor.
Snow Routes
Maps of the priority and standard routes are available on Linn County’s website at LinnCountyIowa.gov/ Engineer or the Engineer’s Office, 1888 County Home Road, Marion.
No Parking on County Roads
All Linn County secondary roads (including those located within subdivisions) are established as snow routes. To minimize the hazards associated with snow removal operations, parking of vehicles within the rightof-way is prohibited for any reason following
Snow removal routes on Linn County secondary roads are prioritized by traffic count and road surfacing and are designated as priority routes and standard routes. There are 30 priority routes served by 30 truck snowplows and plow operators. There are 41 standard routes served by 30 truck snowplows, 11 motor graders, and their operators. Linn County has approximately 1,200 miles of secondary roads, which is roughly the equivalent of driving from Linn County to Nashville and back.
snowfalls exceeding one inch, or freezing rain in any amount, until 48 hours after the roads have been plowed and/or are no longer blowing shut due to drifted snow and County snow removal operations are completed, with the roads fully open to traffic. Vehicles found in violation of this County ordinance can be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense.
Snow and Ice Ordinance and Policy
• Hard surface roads are given priority during and following snow events.
• Rock roads are plowed to provide access to the hard-surface system. Rock roads are opened to one-lane travel as soon as practicable during regular County operating hours. Road crews attempt to open rock roads to travel within two or three days following the snow event; this is not always possible during heavy snow with wind.
• Linn County does not have a bare or dry pavement policy. Crews apply salt and sand to hardsurfaced roads to provide grit and help clear the surface when practicable, particularly on hills, curves, and intersections. It is important to remember each winter storm has individual characteristics and road crews respond accordingly. In addition, the Secondary Road Department will from time-to-time test
and evaluate various new products, equipment, and methods to develop strategies for improving effectiveness and response to winter driving conditions. For these reasons, the level of service will not be the same from one road to the next, nor from one storm to the next.
The entire Linn County Snow and Ice Removal Ordinance and the Secondary Road Department Winter Maintenance Operation Policy are available on Linn County’s website LinnCountyIowa. gov.
Track-A-Plow
Linn County residents can now see the locations of Linn County snowplows during snow events. This online program uses AVL (automated vehicle location) technology to provide current and historical locations of snowplows on Linn County’s secondary roads.
The Track-a-Plow website is updated approximately every five minutes during a snow event using AVL technology on each snowplow and motor grader.
The Track-a-Plow website is available at: https://experience. arcgis.com/experience/1a 4afc36ee544a179bdad4db ae77d065
A link to the webpage is also available at LinnCountyIowa.gov.
Snow Response Updates
Linn County provides text and email updates to its response to snow events. Subscribe to receive the updates by visiting LinnCountyIowa. gov/NotifyMe.
Winter Driving Safety Tips
• Remember that speed limits are meant for dry roads, not roads covered in snow and ice. Reduce your speed and increase your following distance as road conditions and visibility worsen.
• Be cautious on bridges and overpasses as they are commonly the first areas to become icy.
• Keep a safe distance when following snowplows. This is critical because snowplows create a swirl of snow that can blind the driver of a car following too closely or cars approaching from the opposite
direction.
• Do not stop too closely behind a stopped snowplow. The operator may be preparing to back up and may not see you.
• Do not pass a snowplow unless your visibility is clear and it is completely safe for you, the snowplow operator, and other vehicles. Snowplow operators may have limited visibility, and the road in front of them may be worse than the road behind.
• Patience is necessary during the winter season. The snowplow operator is working to provide safe road conditions for you and your family.
• Use caution when snowbanks limit your view of oncoming traffic.
• Monitor road and weather conditions by checking local news stations or online traffic and weather sites.
• Notify the Linn County Secondary Road Department at 319-8926400 or Engineer@ LinnCountyIowa.gov if you are forced to abandon your vehicle on or along a county road. This may assist with your retrieval of the vehicle and reduce the negative effect on the snow response.
Motion by Running-Marquardt, seconded by Rogers to go out of closed session.
Adjournment at 10:54 a.m.
Respectfully submitted, JOEL D. MILLER, Linn County Auditor
By: Rebecca Shoop, Deputy Auditor APPROVED BY: KIRSTEN RUNNING-MARQUARDT, Chairperson Board of Supervisors
Published in the Sun November 28, 2024.
LINN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
CEDAR RAPIDS, LINN COUNTY, IOWA
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2024
9:00 A.M.
(These are the minutes in their entirety. Archived minutes can be found at www. linncountyiowa.gov).
The Board met in session at the Linn County Jean Oxley Public Service Center. Present: Chairperson Running-Marquardt, Vice Chairperson Rogers and Supervisor Zumbach. Board members voting “AYE” unless otherwise noted.
Chairperson Running-Marquardt called the meeting to order.
Motion by Running-Marquardt, seconded by Rogers to approve minutes of November 18, 2024 as printed.
The Board received updates from the following Department Heads: Charlie Nichols, Planning and Development Dir. - Working on improving communication with homeowners and contractors; budget is on track, however, revenues are over projections; planning on several budget Offers for FY26; State of Iowa is moving forward with adopting 2024 building codes (Linn County is on the 2021 versions); Linn County’s Building Official has been elected the President of the Iowa Association Building Officials; every year the International Code Council holds hearings relating to code change proposals submitted by entities with a vested interest in construction standards (Linn County’s Building Official attends hearings every year); Clerical Staff have been attending trainings and conferences geared toward their areas of expertise; City of Center Point is interested in working on a Fringe Area Agreement with the County to help guide development within the two-mile area outside their city boundaries (Palo, Bertram & Springville are also interested); working on United Development Code text amendments; Phase II of Duane Arnold Solar project is near completion; Phase III and IV was to be applied for this year, however, the CEO of NextEra has expressed interest in restarting the Nuclear Power Plant; and permit activity. He will update the Board on the parcel project on December 2nd. Discussion continued regarding whether Alliant would still need the Phase I & II solar sites if the Nuclear Plant is reopened. Would decommissioning come early and land turned back to its previous state? Nichols stated that he would be surprised if it was decommissioned early, noting that it is his understanding that more power is needed than they thought and would possibly need to use both solar and nuclear.
Steve Estenson, Risk Management Dir. – Working with Darrin Gage on setting date and time for bids to demo the barns at County Home Road and Dows. Supervisor Zumbach stated that he has been asked by several people about salvage rights and Estenson responded that salvage rights are the responsibility of the demolition contractor.
Joi Alexander, Communications Dir. –Editorial Calendar; working with Planning & Development on their handouts and website; working with the Road Dept. with winter weather readiness information; contacted Larson Const. regarding a potential groundbreaking date of the Secondary Roads Headquarters; working on the PAFR; signed up for a webinar regarding website accessibility; will follow up with departments that are not following ADA accessibility requirements on the website; partially activated the EOC on November 5th (election day) where PIO’s from Cedar Rapids and Marion participated; change to Chapter 21, Open Meetings law (government bodies must provide some kind of electronic access for board members to attend a meeting remotely); sat in on interview for a Public Health Communication Specialist; and continue to work with departments on clothing orders.
Public Comment: A member of the public stated that he will be exercising his right under the Fourth Amendment of
the United States Constitution. He read from documents provided by Linn County, the Courthouse, Cedar Rapids Gazette and other public records regarding Chad Pelley, Twenty40 Building Concepts. He stated that Linn County has a business relationship with Pelley (Dows Property) which includes paying him large amounts of taxpayer’s dollars. He continued to read from documents dating back to 1993 regarding Pelley’s sexual abuse of a 15 yr. old girl as well as kicking and punching a woman in the face. He noted Pelley’s involvement in children’s organizations and his history of violence against women and children. He also alluded to conflicts of interest with Pelley and a member of the Board. The Board canvassed votes of the November 5, 2024, General Election 2 tier for Center Point-Urbana Bond measure. Results are on file at the Auditor’s Office. Adjournment at 9:45 a.m. Respectfully submitted, JOEL D. MILLER, Linn County Auditor By: Rebecca Shoop, Deputy Auditor APPROVED BY: KIRSTEN RUNNING-MARQUARDT, Chairperson Board of Supervisors Published in the Sun November 28, 2024.
MOUNT VERNON CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 213 1ST STREET NW MOUNT VERNON, IOWA 52314 NOVEMBER 18, 2024
The Mount Vernon City Council met November 18, 2024, at City Hall, 213 1st Street NW, Mount Vernon, IA. A Zoom option was available. The following Council members were present: Andresen, Rose, West and Engel. Absent: Tuerler. Call to Order. At 6:30 p.m. Mayor Thomas M. Wieseler called the meeting to order. Agenda Additions/Agenda Approval. Wieseler noted that Change Order #22024 Pool Improvements did not come in and this item will be tabled. Motion made by West, seconded by Rose to approve the Agenda as amended. Motion carries. Tuerler absent.
Consent Agenda. Revised minutes were sent to Council prior to the meeting with a revision on the ordinance number that was referenced in the motion for Ordinance #10-7-2024B. Motion made by Rose, seconded by Andresen to approve the Consent Agenda with this change. Motion carries. Tuerler absent. Approval of City Council Minutes – November 4, 2024 Regular Council Meeting Ordinance Approval/Amendment Ordinance #10-7-2024B: Amending Chapter 46 Minors of the Mount Vernon Code of Ordinances. The attached ordinance reflects the changes that were identified by City Council on November 4, 2024. Staff has not received any verbal or written communication regarding this ordinance since the first reading. Motion made by Rose, seconded by Engel to approve Ordinance #10-7-2024B. Roll call all yes. Tuerler absent. Ordinance passes its second reading. Ordinance #11-4-2024A: Amending Chapter 165 Zoning Regulations, Article 302 Definitions and Article 413 LI – Limited Industrial District of the Mount Vernon Code of Ordinances. The attached ordinance reflects the changes that were identified by City Council on November 4, 2024. Staff has not received any verbal or written communication regarding this ordinance since the first reading. Motion made by Andresen, seconded by West to approve Ordinance #11-4-2024A. Roll call all yes. Tuerler absent. Ordinance passes its second reading. Resolutions for Approval Resolution #11-18-2024A: Certifying to County Auditor, TIF Debt Incurred in Calendar Year 2024 for Fiscal Year 2026. The city is required to certify the amount of TIF (Tax Increment Financing) dollars it is requesting for the next fiscal year by December 1st of each calendar year. Mt. Vernon’s request consists of three submittals. Spring Meadow Heights and Stonebrook subdivisions account for the residential development agreements in place and the third document itemizes TIF monies that are used to repay bonds (Streets, Pool, LBC, etc). Motion made by Engel, seconded by Rose to approve Resolution #11-18-2024A. Roll call all yes. Tuerler absent. Resolution passes. Resolution #11-18-2024B: Approving the Annual Urban Renewal Report for Fiscal Year 2024. The Urban Renewal Report is an annual report required by the State that shows how the City uses Tax Incre-
ment Financing. Motion made by Rose, seconded by Andresen to approve Resolution #11-18-2024B. Roll call all yes. Tuerler absent. Resolution passes. Resolution #11-18-2024C: Accepting Work for the Project Known as the 2024 Business 30 Improvements Project –Council Action as Needed. The Business 30 Improvement Project is now complete. V&K Engineering has provided a Certificate of Completion and reviewed all necessary testing of the improvements. The final contract price is $740,406.75; just over $41,000 less than the original bid amount. Motion made by Engel, seconded by West to approve Resolution #11-182024C. Roll call all yes. Tuerler absent. Resolution passes. Resolution #11-18-2024D: Accepting Work for the Project Known as the Highway 1 Storm Sewer CCTV Project –Council Action as Needed. The Highway 1 Storm Sewer work is now complete. V&K Engineering has provided a Certificate of Completion and reviewed all necessary testing of the improvements. The final contract price is $23,091.00. Motion made by West, seconded by Engel to approve Resolution #11-18-2024D. Roll call all yes. Tuerler absent. Resolution passes. Resolution #11-18-2024E – Approving Voluntary Annexation of Property as set forth within Application for Voluntary Annexation. Staff is working through the revised annexation applications for CTM Holdings and Troy and Tracy Louwagie. The State determined that our first annexation application could not proceed as the City of Mount Vernon is within the urbanized area of Lisbon. There is an extended application process that exists for these situations. Motion made by Rose, seconded by West to approve Resolution #11-18-2024E. Roll call all yes. Tuerler absent. Resolution passes. Motions for Approval Consideration of Claims List – Motion to Approve. Motion made by Engel, seconded by Andresen to approve the Claims List. Motion carries. Tuerler absent. PAYROLL CLAIMS
WATER/ SALT-ALL
MEDIACOM PHONE/INTERNET-PW 322.76
CENTRAL IOWA DISTRIBUTING SUPPLIES-LBC 313.00
AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES SUPPLIES-LBC 302.59
CENTRAL IOWA DISTRIBUTING SUPPLIES-CITY HALL 295.00
MEDIACOM PHONE/INTERNET-FD 294.16
MOUNT VERNON BANK & TRUST CO NSF
CHECK-WAT,SEW,SW 272.21
CURTIS ENGLISH PORTABLE RR RENTALS-P&REC 260.00
KONICA MINOLTA MAINT PLAN/COPIES-PD 255.20
CITY LAUNDERING CO SERVICES-LBC 253.92
MIDWEST RADAR & EQUIPMENT EQUIP
MAINT-PD 246.00
GARY’S FOODS SUPPLIES-PD,P&REC,LBC 238.46
AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES BLINDSCITY HALL 231.40
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT SYSTEMS INSURANCE CLAIMS-ALL DEPTS 224.01
The Board of Adjustment approved a Conditional Use Permit for this on October 24, 2024. Motion made by Rose, seconded by Engel to approve the Site Plan for 520 1st Street SE. Motion carries. Tuerler absent.
Discussion and Consideration of LBC Expansion Options and Preliminary Design Proposal with OPN Architects – Council Action as Needed. The Mt. Vernon Community School District, the City of Mount Vernon and the Childcare Solutions Group continue to review possible solutions to the lack of childcare options in Mount Vernon. One possible avenue that has been discussed, after a site visit to the Oskaloosa YMCA, is the possibility of a childcare addition to the LBC. OPN created the original design of the LBC and would complete a feasibility study of a childcare addition to the LBC property for $19,000.00. Due to the critical need for daycare options in the community, Council agreed with the importance of this study. Motion made by Engel, seconded by West to approve contracting with OPN Architects for the childcare study and expansion of the LBC, not to exceed $19,500.00. Motion carries. Tuerler absent.
Discussion and Consideration of Pay Application #2 – Glenn Street Extension – Council Action as Needed. Glenn Street pay application #2 is in the amount of $216,469.71. The main road surface for both Minish and Glenn have been poured. The remaining work includes backfilling along the curb, storm sewer intake installations and the setting of manholes. Motion made by Rose, seconded by Andresen to approve Pay Application #2-Glenn Street Extension. Motion carries. Tuerler absent.
Pay Application #1 is in the amount of $21,936.45.
CATERPILLAR FINANCIAL SERVICES
949.39 SPRINGVILLE READY MIX SALT SHED CONCRETE-PW FACILITIES 912.50 IOWA SOLUTIONS INC COMPUTER MAINT-PD 850.00
BANKCARD
SUPPLIES-PD 84.92
BANKCARD 8076 REFUND-LBC 80.00
CENTURY LINK PHONE CHARGES-PD 77.42
JAMISON W BILLINGSLEY REFEREE-P&REC 75.00
PRESTO-X PEST CONTROL-CITY HALL 63.80
GALLS LLC UNIFORMS-PD 63.42
PRESTO-X PEST CONTROL-PD 62.00 STAR EQUIPMENT LTD TROWEL RENTAL-RUT 60.00 PAUL SHARP DEPOSIT REFUND-WAT 59.83
LINN COUNTY TREASURER STONEBROOK 7,PH2,OUTLOT A&B 58.00
FIRE SERVICE TRAINING BUREAU
TRAINING-FD 50.00
UNITYPOINT CLINIC-OCCUPATIONAL
DRUG TESTING-PW
INSTRUCTOR-LBC 20.00
HAWKINS INC CHEMICALS-WAT 20.00 GALLS LLC UNIFORMS-PD 15.63 AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES SUPPLIES-P&REC 12.99
Discussion and Consideration of Pay Application #2 – Bryant Road Water Main Improvements – Council Action as Needed. Pay application #2 for the Bryant Road Water Main Extension Project is in the amount of $4,969.66. The pay application represents the 5% retainage for the project and will be released upon approval of this pay application as the thirty-day waiting period has expired. Motion made by Andresen, seconded by Rose to approve Pay Application #2-Bryant Road Water Main Improvements. Motion carries. Tuerler absent.
Discussion and Consideration of JEO Invoice # 154209 – Uptown Streetscape Plan – Council Action as Needed. Included with the invoice is a progress report from JEO Consulting Group. Motion made by Engel, seconded by West to approve Invoice #154209 from JEO Consulting Group in the amount of $11,858.60. Motion carries. Tuerler absent.
Discussion and Consideration of Pay Application #2 - 4th Street Reconstruction Project – Council Action as Needed. The final walk through for this project took place on Friday, November 15, 2024. Additional testing is being done to the compaction of the asphalt and fixes may need to be made in the future. Overall, staff is happy with the project. Motion made by West, seconded by Andresen to approve Pay Application #2-4th Street Reconstruction Project in the amount of $235,939.48. Motion carries. Tuerler absent.
Discussion and Consideration of Pay Application #2 - Business 30 Improvements Project – Council Action as Needed. Pay application #2 for the Business 30 Improvements is in the amount of $240,541.63. This project is complete and the necessary testing has been reviewed by our engineers. The final pay application for the retainage will be processed after the mandatory thirty-day waiting period has elapsed. Motion made by Rose, seconded by Engel to approve Pay Application #2-Business 30 Improvements. Motion carries. Tuerler absent.
Discussion and Consideration of Pay Application #1 – Highway 1 Storm Sewer CCTV – Council Action as Needed. This project was necessitated by the scheduled IaDOT Hwy 1 reconstruction plans.
CALENDAR & PUZZLES
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
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Thursday, Nov. 28
Happy Thanksgiving!
Lisbon, MV City Halls closed, Cole Library and Lisbon Library closed. SELCC closed.
Fourteenth Annual Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk, starts and ends at 405 Wolfe Lane Mount Vernon, 9 a.m. group start time.
Friday, Nov. 29
Happy Thanksgiving! SELCC, Lisbon and MV City halls closed, Cole Library and Lisbon Library closed.
Saturday, Nov. 30
Shop Small Saturday, Mount Vernon and Lisbon area businesses, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Monday, Dec. 2
Mount Vernon City Council, Mount Vernon City Hall, 6:30 p.m.
Washington Elementary Teachers and Parents, Washington Elementary School Room 201, 6 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 3
Project 60, Lisbon Schools Lions Den, 11 a.m. Lego Club, Cornell college Room 108, 3:30 p.m. Yarn squad, Cornell College Cole Library Room 326, 6:30 p.m.
Mount Vernon Fine Arts Association, Mount Vernon High School, 7 p.m.
Learn to play Bridge, Cornell College Cole Library
200 E. Market St., 455-2000 livinghopegmc.org
Interim Pastors
Services live streamed at Living Hope Global Methodist Church’s YouTube page
Sundays at 9:45 a.m. Sun.: 9:45 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 Jack Ray 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
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
room 108, 7-9 p.m.
Mount Vernon Middle School Parent Teacher Organization meeting, Mount Vernon Middle School, 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 4
Cards, Southeast Linn Community Center, 10-11:30 a.m.
Linn Lunch Bunch, Southeast Linn Community Center, 11:30 a.m.
Mount Vernon Booster Club Meeting, Mount Vernon High School, 5:30 p.m.
Lisbon Public Library Board meeting, Lisbon Public Library, 7 p.m.
Cornell Choral and Chamber Orchestra present “Handel’s Messiah”, Mount Vernon High School Performing Arts Center, 7 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 5
Story Time, Cornell College Cole Library Browsing Room, 9:30 a.m.
Fiber Friends, Southeast Linn Community Center, 10:30 a.m.
LBC Adult Speaker Series “First Day of Freshman History 2005“ by Bob Meeker, Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center, 1 p.m.
Lauren Farmer book reading, Cornell College Van Etten-Lacey House, 4-5 p.m.
Magical Night, uptown Mount Vernon, 5-8 p.m.
Across
1 Workplace for a young Abraham Lincoln
4 Marine animal with distinctive eye patches
8 Promote oneself
13 Had beef, perhaps
14 Sport
15 Writes with a point?
17 Selecting for a jury
19 Nickname alternative to Teddy
20 Bash
21 “If it’s brown, lay down. If it’s black, fight back. If it’s ___, say goodnight!” (bear advice)
23 Vinyl records, slangily
24 Stinging jellyfish
26 North Dakota’s most populous city
28 Epsilon follower
29 They end in diciembre
31 “Darn it!”
32 Emphasis-providing suffix
33 Thick Japanese noodle
34 Words of protest
35 “Who’s interested?” ... or, phonetically, what four answers in this puzzle are vis-à-vis the answers next to them
38 Get ready to fly
40 Ancient Peruvian
41 “Also also ...,” for short
44 Hefty read
45 “Dude!”
46 Bareilles who wrote the music and lyrics for Broadway’s “Waitress”
47 Frank Sinatra’s reads “The best is yet to come”
50 Arrogantly confident
52 City that’s home to the World of Coca-Cola museum: Abbr.
53 Actress Salma
55 Radiator sound
56 Proponents of crystal healing
58 On the same side
61 Totally forgets to do something, informally
62 Sports team’s assignment
63 DiFranco who played Persephone in “Hadestown”
64 Tip-off that you’ve forgotten something in the toaster
65 Move gradually
66 GPS option: Abbr.
Down
1 Antioxidant-infused water brand
2 Costs of withdrawing
3 Emphasizes, in a way
4 Baby that’s up all night?
5 Big name in outdoor gear
6 “Must this conversation happen again?”
7 Cry of frustration
8 Fighting fish
9 Last choice, often
10 Crush
11 Take to the door
12 Security deposit payers
16 Makes more alluring, with “up”
18 Flour in Indian cuisine
22 Theoreticals
24 Singer with the 2023 #1 hit “Kill Bill”
25 Word after leading or lunch
27 Serengeti herd
30 Live
33 Prefix with directional
34 Cone ___ (iconic costume piece for Madonna)
35 Got rid of
36 Really got to work, with “down”
37 Second
38 Abdominal floor exercises
39 Mishmash
41 Cook until a crust forms
42 Roll call response
43 Voice
44 Becomes less tense
45 “I tell ya ...”
46 Personal stake, in a metaphor
48 Animated film character with a Scottish accent
49 French cup
51 Reproach
54 Deftness
57 Prefix with system
59 Table support
60 Block in Atlantic City
SUDOKU
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.
Miscellaneous
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Kitchen Assistant needed in the Elementary School.
Hours: 10:30 am - 1:30 pm. If interested, please contact Nutrition Director Mallory Gerber at mgerber@mvcsd.org.
CLASSIFIEDS
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Help Wanted Help Wanted Help Wanted
(77.5 compared to statewide average of 72.72). The district also had a four-year graduation rate of 97.67 (better than statewide average of 87.46) and 5-year rate of 94.12 (better than statewide average of 89.65).
The school fell below the statewide average in growth of mathematics (41.5 compared to statewide average of 50), growth of English language arts (37.5 compared to statewide average of 50) and post-secondary readiness of work-based learning (11.9 compared to statewide average of 25.47)
The district also had slightly higher chronic absenteeism than the statewide average (22.33 compared to 21.63).
Lisbon Elementary
“The Elementary has started focusing on growth measurements the
last couple of years to make sure that we are monitoring progress of all learners in our system,” said elementary principal Justin Brown. “We look at rates of acquisition for students from progress monitoring of students that are in need of intervention. We want to make sure that students, regardless of their score, are making adequate progress. If those results are showing progress that isn’t meeting the expectation, instructional changes will be made.
“Though our scores are close to the state average in growth - That seems to be the area that we need to have our attention on, which we do. We will continue to work at it.”
Brown said that the district will also try to understand why they did go down a category from Commendable to Acceptable.
“We were .33 of a point away from
scoring in the same category,” Brown said. “There is a lot of good work going on in our building and we want to continue for that to be our focus.”
Lisbon Elementary School had a score of 424.33 out of 700 points, for 60.62 percent. The school was marked acceptable, and slightly behind the state average of 60.95 percent.
Lisbon Elementary School was above the statewide average in proficiency in science (70.91 compared to state average of 61.55), mathematics (76.39 compared to 69.81), and English Language Arts (79.83 compared to state average of 72.72).
The district was below average in growth in mathematics compared to the state average (46 compared to state average 50) and English language arts (49 compared to state average of 50).
The district had 100 percent participation from students in all categories.
No new registrations will be taken after Friday, December 13th.
Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun
Left: Clara (Reagan Ireland) and The Nutcracker (Atticus Happoldt) welcome to the Snow Queen and snow flakes during the show.
Right: The Rat King sneaks up on Clara during The Nutcracker.