MVL Sun — 08.08.24

MVLCDG Celebrating volunteers Tuesday

Awards being handed out to numerous individuals

The Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group (MV-L CDG), a Main Street Iowa Organization, will host its annual volunteer recognition celebration Tuesday, Aug. 13, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., in the lower level of the Mount Vernon United Methodist Church. This event, with a fiesta theme, will celebrate the 520 registered MV-L CDG volunteers who cumulatively have logged more than 67,477 volunteer hours since the organization began in 2008.

Enjoy a taco bar with rice and beans, plus chips and salsa while festive music plays. Be sure to stop by the photo opportunity to get your picture taken with Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera. During the event, the following MV-L CDG awards will be presented to local community members:

Volunteer of the Year: Gene Freiburger for his leadership with the Living Nativity and trolley safety during Magical Night. A team of approximately 60 volunteers from St. Paul Lutheran Church assist with the Living Nativity, which includes a Thanksgiving holiday rehearsal. Gene also coordinates the Christmas Trolleys, this past year spearheading the new safety gates for First Street and Highway 1 that allow for safer trolley and pedestrian crossing during the event.

Business of the Year: Jen Juhl and White House Bakery as the journey has a storybook evolution: Jen started selling her goods from her home and then moved into the Old School Shops at the First Street Community Center. Last year, White Tree Bakery moved into the corner storefront of First Street and First Avenue West. White Tree Bakery not only adds sweet and savory flavors to uptown Mount Vernon, but they also promote the community, its events, and are always willing to help other nonprofits and community groups.

Committee of the Year: Lisbon Historical Preservation Commission for their success in getting Lisbon Main Street (Nov 2019) and Meyers Farmstead barns and outbuildings (Feb 2021) listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This year they also completed facade restoration on the Lisbon Public Library with the Meyers Farmstead restoration and rehabilitation ongoing since 2020. Committee members include Rebecca Hess, Marc Mohn, Alexandra McKendree, Amelia Kibbie, and Ann Opatz, who have averaged 630 volunteer hours per year, over the last five years working on projects. In addition, John Bardsley, liaison to the Lisbon City Council, provided advocacy for the group’s mission to preserve, protect, and promote the history of Lisbon.

Citizens of the Year: Les and Katrina Gar-

Weekend stretch

The Friends of the Palisades-Kepler State Park hosted a Qigong exercise session at the Palisades-Kepler State Park Saturday, Aug. 3. Catherine Quehl-Engel lead the class Saturday, which drew many of the stu-

dents from her classes at Lester Buresh Family Community Wellness Center to the outdoors.

As people were taking part in the exercise, Quehl-Engel encouraged them to absorb the sounds of nature as part of the

calming experience. She walked through different exercises to benefit different chis of the body and help regulate stress people might experience in daily life. Qigong classes are offered at the LBC every Tuesday at noon.

Sauerkraut Days kicks off next week

Washburn and was organized by Lisbon Library director Elizabeth Hoover de Galvez. Clark and Washburn have been making sauerkraut since they were young kids and now make multiple crocks full of sauerkraut.

Joel Kellar

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun joel-keller@uiowa.edu

The summer end cap festival in Lisbon is almost here. The Sauerkraut Days will be August 15-17. It will have many of the fan favorite traditions as well as bringing back an old tradition and new bands.

The new “old” tradition coming back to the festival is a demonstration of how to make sauerkraut. This will be the first time in ten years the event will be available to attendees of the festival to watch and learn how to make sauerkraut. It will be led by Virgil Clark and Dolores

“[Virgil] said he has never had anybody get sick from his sauerkraut. I was very afraid of the idea of fermenting something at home,” said Hoover de Galvez, “He talks a lot about just being confident while working with these [fermenting] processes and trusting the salt to do the job.”

This demonstration will take place at the Southeast Linn Community Center at 11 a.m. Saturday of the festival.

Lisbon Parks and Recreation will be hosting the movie IF at Lisbon City Park Wednesday, Aug. 14, beginning at dusk (roughly 9 p.m.). Popcorn and candy will be provided for the outdoor movie.

Thursday night will kick off the festival with the ice cream social at 6:30 p.m., accompanied by the Laidback Brass

Band. The ice cream is free and provided by Bass Farms. They will also provide bouncy houses and tractor rides Thursday night. The celebrate community event will also be held this year, providing information and resources for many community agencies and first responders and children’s activities.

The night will end with a fireworks show in City Park. The show will be done by Firehouse Pyrotechnics. The Lisbon Softball tournament will also be held at Lisbon City Park beginning Thursday afternoon.

The two headliner performances Friday and Saturday night will be Trophy Dads and Lonesome Road. Trophy Dads will play Friday night, and they perform a little bit of every genre. Jerry Dietsch, the president of the Sauerkraut Days committee, said a committee member watched the band perform live and decided they had to have them come to Sauerkraut Days. Lonesome Road will take the stage Sat-

Catherine Quehl-Engel provides steps on one of the Qigong exercises Saturday, Aug. 3, at Palisades-Kepler State Park.

Photos by Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun Participants walk through one of the action steps in Qigong Saturday at the Palisades-Kepler State Park.

VOLUNTEERS from 1

ner first served our community for 16 years as President and First Lady at Cornell College. Katrina played a key role in the creation of Chalk the Walk, The Mount Vernon Area Arts Council, The Lincoln Highway Arts Festival, and the Mount Vernon 2 Sculpture Trail. Together this year the Garners established the Mount Vernon Community Betterment Fund at The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation and established endowed funds at the Community Foundation to benefit arts in the Mount Vernon public schools, the Lisbon and Mount Vernon Public Libraries, Cornell College, the Sculpture Trail, and The Mount Vernon Area Arts Council.

“I hope the entire community will join us at our fiesta to celebrate our timeless and tireless volunteers,” said Amy Hall Haney, Chair of the MV-L CDG Organization Committee. “Please dress festively and dig out your best party/fiesta clothes and join us in thanking all who make our communities better.”

Volunteer of the Year: Gene Freiburger

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

Freiburger

Gene Freiburger is one of those volunteers who was humbled by being named Volunteer of the Year.

“I feel there are other volunteers that deserve this honor more than I do,” Freiburger said. “I want to thank MVL CDG for thinking of me for the award, though.”

Freiburger has been helping with events at Magical Night for more than 30 years. He started helping with St Paul Lutheran Church’s Living Nativity Scene in the mid 1990s. About four years ago, he started helping with the trolley rides as part of the Magical Night festival.

His favorite part of being involved in the Living Nativity Scene and trolley rides has been working with other community and church volunteers. “That, and bringing forth a message of hope,” Freiburger said.

This year, Freiburger worked with Tim Kelley to come up with a solution that would allow the trolley rides to continue and do so in a safe manner. “That was a very rewarding project to work on alongside Tim,” Freiburger said. “It was very hands on to design and come up with a solution.”

Freiburger said that the whole project consisted of three to four committee meetings discussing the new gates that will be used for Magical Nights along the intersection of Highway 1 and First Street. He and Tim Kelley also put in roughly six to eight hours fabricating the new gates and then testing them out to make sure they work.

For anyone who is sitting on the fence about volunteering for a community celebration, Freiburger encourages them to get involved and ask what they can do to help.

Freiburger has been a member of Saint Paul Lutheran Church in Mount Vernon, and will will help set up their Sauerkraut Days stand in the next week.

“I’ve also worked with the Rotary handicap ramp build and installation projects in the area,” Freiburger said.

Freiburger said he wants to extend a huge thank you to MV-LCDG and all the volunteers that “work hard to make our community a better place to live.”

Citizens of the Year: Les and Katrina Garner

Nathan Countryman

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

The list of things Les and Katrina Garner have done for the community of Mount Vernon and Lisbon is long. Les was president of Cornell College for 16 year. The couple supported the formation of the Munt Vernon Area Arts Council, Chalk the Walk festival, and the Lincoln Highway Arts festival. Most recently, the couple started forming community betterment funds to support arts, culture and non-profits in Mount Vernon.

Those contributions didn’t go unnoticed, and Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group named them the citizens of the year for 2023.

“It’s a great honor to be recognized by a community that means so much to me,” Les said to the Sun while he and Katrina were on vacation to Chautauqua County, New York.

France, on a recent trip. The couple was named citizens of the year by Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group for 2023, with a reception for all winners Tuesday, Aug. 13, at Mount Vernon United Methodist Church.

“Mount Vernon has been such a big part of our lives, and we’re extremely grateful,” Katrina said.

Katrina said it was still a surprise they were named this year for this honor, as there are a lot of volunteers and others in the community who have been more involved in many of the festivals.

“The people involved in the arts in Mount Vernon are just plain fun,” Katrina said. “They’re a bunch of real dreamers and if they dream it, it becomes a reality.”

Katrina remembers Joe Jennison presenting the idea of Chalk the Walk that first year to the Mount Vernon Area Arts Council and it was a fun idea then.

“We never thought it would grow to be as big as it has become,” Katrina said. “It’s really a lot of fun, that festival, and seeing where it went from that first year to now has been great.”

She said the only festival she had a hard time with was when they did the Wizard of Oz and she dressed up as Dorothy.

“The Ruby red slippers I had for the day were about a size and a half too small for me,” Katrina said. “So by the end of the day, my feet

were killing me. But it was such a wonderful thing to have so many kids come up and ask to pet Toto and make that memory for them at a festival.”

Les said their love of Mount Vernon came about with how welcoming the community was when they first arrived from North Carolina.

“The people in this community have always been so warm and welcoming to us,” Les said. “The schools opened so many opportunities for our sons and gave them a great education.”

Katrina said whoever was responsible for Ann Boots and Ginger Hansen being the welcoming committee for her succeeded at their job, as she fell in love with those ladies immediately.

“I remember we were registering the kids for school and I had left my purse in Ginger’s car and was worried something was going to happen to it,” Katrina said. “She reiterated that it would be okay in the car because we’re here in Mount Vernon.”

Les served as Cornell College’s president for 16 years. He said that was one of the highlights of his career before moving on to help at the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation.

“When I started with the foundation, the area was just recovering from the flood of 2008,” Les said. “That recovery opened a lot of ideas in the broader community that was innovative on how to support the rebuilding and resilience in the area.”

For Les, both as president of Cornell and working with the GCRCF, has pointed out the power of philanthropy to make a huge difference in these communities. He saw that transformative work even in the smaller grants distributed by the community foundation.

That was one of the reasons the couple made the first gifts to those community betterment funds.

Katrina said being involved in the arts scene in Mount Vernon, even if it is one of her hobbies, has meant the world to her.

“The artists are so creative and it reiterates how important the arts are to our lives,” Katrina said. “Art enriches so many lives. There are just too many arts events in Mount Vernon and Lisbon, from poetry readings, Chalk the Walk, guest speakers.”

For Les, the thing he has loved most about the arts in Mount Vernon has been how the many artists capture the beauty of the town.

“Be that in watercolor, pastels, oil, pottery, they capture the real beauty of Mount Vernon in what they do,” Les said.

Both Katrina and Les said they plan on staying in Mount Vernon. There are a few more trips they want to make while they’re physically able, like the one they’ve made to Chautauqua, N.Y.

Katrina said this vacation has been all about the transformative power of the arts and given ideas for other projects that might work in the Cedar Rapids corridor or Mount Vernon.

“This festival and vacation has helped me feel proud to call myself an artist,” Katrina said.

Les said he is looking forward to continuing to read his detective mysteries and continuing work on woodworking projects as well.

“We might build a few more free little public libraries for the community as a joint product,” Les said.

Volume 155 I Issue 32

108 First Street S.W, Mount Vernon, IA 52314

Phone: 319-895-6216

news@mvlsun.com

The Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun strives for accuracy and fairness in reporting news. If we’ve made an error or a report is misleading, let us know about it: news@mvlsun.com

STAFF

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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 First Street W., Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Subscriptions: Contact Rochelle Ferguson at 319-895-6216 or rochelle.ferguson@mvlsun.com for additional information. Subscription rates: Linn and adjoining counties – $55 annually; elsewhere in Iowa – $75 annually; out of state – $85 annually.

Copyright 2024 Mount VernonLisbon Sun, a division of The Daily Iowan and Student Publications, Inc. All articles, photographs and graphics, both in print and online editions, are the property of Student Publications, Inc., and may not be reproduced or republished without written permission. mvlsun.com

Contributed photo

Les and Katrina Garner on a canal boat in Tournus, on the Saone River in Burgundy,

Business of the Year: White Tree Bakery

This year’s Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group business of the year, White Tree Bakery (owned by Jen Juhl), views the accomplishment as another success for the business over the past three years.

“It feels amazing to be named business of the year by Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group,” Juhl said. “I didn’t think I’d be able to see such growth at such a rapid pace. After three years and three locations, I feel so happy that the community has supported me throughout.”

White Tree Bakery started in Juhl’s own kitchen as a hobby she started in her spare time, but as the community’s support has grown, so has her footprint. In early 2023, she started a shop with traditional hours at First Street Community Center in uptown Mount Vernon and then moved into a space with larger foot traffic, stepping into the former The Nourishing Root and Big Creek Emporium space in late October.

“Having a business in uptown Mount Vernon has provided foot traffic that really accelerated my business this year,” Juhl said. “People who wouldn’t ordinarily stop at a bakery do so because of the visibility I have in Uptown.”

Of course, operating a bakery comes with its own challenges –long hours and early mornings, all while balancing the other responsibilities of being a business owner and her personal life.

One of the things Juhl was recognized for was her support of the uptown businesses and festivals in Mount Vernon. For Juhl, that is just about being a great neighbor for so many other businesses.

“Being part of Uptown allows me to collaborate with my neighbor businesses, like desserts at Little Scratch, gluten-free and vegan cupcakes at Plantiful Pantry, and desserts for Palisades Café,” Juhl said. “The exposure this provides is great, but it’s basically about being a great friend and neighbor, and helping provide something for their business that they may not have the

ability or desire to do themselves.”

One of the things Juhl loves about her business is working with seasonal ingredients and coming up with inspirations for her menus for each season.

“I also have customers and staff who tell me about something growing in their garden or a wonderful meal they had, and just let the creative thoughts roam,” Juhl said.

“We do a lot of recipe testing and development here, too, because I want to get it just right.”

And part of growing her busi -

ness with foot traffic has also been increasing her staff at the bakery. What just used to be Juhl and her immediate family helping with orders, has now grown to two regularly scheduled employees and seasonal help from area young adults, especially during Mount Vernon’s festivals.

“We have a lot of fun here, but we also work very hard,” Juhl said. “I’m hiring for a parttime bakery assistant, too, and look forward to finding our next team member.”

For Juhl, though, the true cherry on top of this success has been the support she has from the community over the past three year. The support has allowed her to take baking from a part-time gig to a fully functioning bakery each week.

“My bakery is nothing without my repeat customers, people who drop in when their children and grandchildren are back in town, or for the families who stop in for a treat together,” Juhl said. “My thanks for their support over the last three years is endless.”

White Tree Bakery is open at 100 First Street S.W. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Fridays and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

Tree Bakery.

OPINIONS

Suddenly, things are getting just plain...weird

Living in Iowa

Dan Brawner

A game kids love to play is “Opposite Day” when, for one day, they get to wear their shoes on the wrong feet and have pancakes for supper and say “hello” when someone is leaving instead of “goodbye.” Temporarily breaking the rules is goofy and fun. But is this the same as “weird?”

On July 30, Fox News host Brian Kilmeade complained that Donald Trump and J.D. Vance were being labeled as weird. He argued that everybody is a little weird and being weird makes people relatable. “So, I just think that weird is cool, actually,” he said.

In fact, being weird is the exact opposite of relatable. Eating horseradish on your Cheerios might be eccentric, even charming. But giving that to your 2-year-old child is weird and creepy. No sane person would do that. Having a debate with an invisible friend is amusing. But buying clothes for an invisible friend is weird and a little worrisome.

Suddenly “weird” has become the word of the day. Trump absurdly claims that windmills cause cancer. If your old uncle Oscar said that after a couple of scotches you might chuckle and forget about it. But when the president of the United States says that, it’s weird. When you turn on the shower, Trump claims, no water comes out. If that ever happens, you call a plumber. It is not a nationwide problem. But Trump keeps bringing it up over and over again as if he expects everybody to agree with him. He insists he’d rather be electrocuted than eaten by sharks. Okay, we all have our preferences. But why use that as a regular part of his campaign speeches? It’s not as we all need to prepare ourselves for the inevitable shark/electrocution decision. People love their kids but Trump said, “If Ivanka weren’t my daughter, perhaps I’d be dating her.” It sounds weird and disturbing. People are saying J.D. Vance is weird. But does having a dolphin fetish make you weird? Yeah, it kind of does. In 1993, Trump argued before Congress that Native Americans should not be granted gaming licenses because, “Our great country is being taken over by the Indian tribes.” He said, “They don’t look like Indians to me and they don’t look like Indians to Indians.” (What?) Interviewed by the National Association of Black Journalists, Trump remarked that vice president Kamala Harris recently “turned black.” This is weird, especially coming from a guy who paints himself pumpkin orange—as if we’re all supposed to believe that is his natural suntan. In 2016, Trump announced, “I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody and I wouldn’t lose any voters, okay?” Actually, that’s not okay. Even to say that is weird. But to say it and mean it is a profoundly disturbing warning sign. The whole concept of “weird” is not possible unless it is balanced with the concept of “normal.” Are we supposed to agree that it is normal for a presidential candidate to shoot somebody with immunity? Is it normal for the leader of the free world to be a convicted felon and sex offender? If we let that slide, what else are we agreeing to? Opposite Day is only fun and a little weird if it’s “just pretend.”

SUN EDITORIAL

Honoring volunteers, big and small at CDG appreciation

The Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group’s volunteer appreciation event is returning next Tuesday, Aug. 13, at Mount Vernon United Methodist Church from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

More than 520 volunteers have logged more than 67,477 volunteer hours since the organization began in 2008.

This year’s awards winners for CDG include Gene Freiburger as volunteer of the year, White Tree Bakery (and Jen Juhl) as business of the year, The Lisbon Historic Preservation Commission as committee of the year and Les and Katrina Garner as citizens of the year.

Between making Magical Night and the trolley rides safer (Freiburger and Tim Kelley’s work this past winter), or the work to get Lisbon’s Main Street and Meyers Farmstead barns and outbuildings on the National Register of Historic Places (Lisbon Historic Preservation Commission) or the countless projects that Les and Katrina Garner have been a part of in their more than 20 years in the community (which have included help starting the Mount Vernon Area Arts Council, supporting Chalk the Walk and Lincoln Highway Arts Festival

Attorney General Bird warns Iowans of lottery scams

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird today issued a warning to Iowans about devastating lottery scams. Last year, Americans lost nearly $340 million to lottery scams. Lottery scams occur when con artists tell victims that they have won a prize and then convince the victims that they have to make payments to receive it.

“Scammers are professional manipulators and thieves,” said Bird. “They take advantage of Iowans’ hopes and dreams before stealing from them. And they steal not just money, but confidence, joy, trust, and livelihood. I urge Iowans to be vigilant and to remember that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. And if you have to pay for your prize, it is a scam.”

One example is an Iowa woman who received a phone call from an unknown number. The caller told her she hit the jackpot and had won $5.5 million, a brand new 2023 Mercedes Benz, plus payments of $5,000 a week for a lifetime. Over the course of the day, the scammer called the woman eight times, checking in to see how she was feeling. After building a trusting relationship with this woman, the scammer told her that she needed to pay a $2,000 fee to receive her prize. She withdrew from her investments, deposited the check

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Come meet your candidates!

On Sunday, Aug. 18, from 2-4 p.m. Linn County Democrats for Democracy is hosting a fundraiser for Sarah Corkery and Molly Donahue.

Sarah is running for the US House of Representative District 2 against Ashley Hinson. She is committed to everyday issues such as:

-the right for women to make their own healthcare decisions

-the importance of public education -equal rights for all Americans

and the newly formed community foundation funds for the community of Mount Vernon and Lisbon that will benefit many causes in the future), there’s plenty to celebrate. Even White Tree Bakery’s ongoing efforts to help promote the activities in the uptown and Jen’s cheerful bravado when visiting (have you ever seen anyone leave a bakery unhappy?)

But alongside those award winners is a recognition for the countless other volunteers who help make these communities and our festivals something to crow about. We’ve spoken about this in numerous editorials in the past, but it bears repeating – these celebrations, festivals and occurrences we have in our town don’t happen without the support of many different individuals able to take a shift or two and help where they are able.

This celebration is just as much about those award winners as it is for all volunteers to take time and enjoy another year of fantastic festivals in the Mount Vernon and Lisbon community (and just before the Sauerkraut Days festival returns this weekend). Come enjoy tacos and celebrate the accomplishments of many volunteers in Mount Vernon and Lisbon.

at the instructed bank, and was told, if asked about the money, to say that it was for her kids. After the first payment, she was told to send more money. At that point, s he stopped and sought help from local law enforcement.

How scammers trick you:

• Scammers call, text, email, or mail to notify you that you won the lottery, a sweepstakes, or a prize.

• Scammers demand upfront payments to collect your winnings or pay related taxes/fees.

• Scammers send emails or texts requesting personal/ financial information for you to claim lottery wins or prizes.

• Scammers pose as lottery officials or pretend to be from well-known companies that run sweepstakes to sell fake tickets or entries, demand money, or get your personal/financial details.

How to protect yourself from lottery scams:

• If you have to pay for your prize, it’s a scam.

• Hang up or do not respond to any unsolicited call or message.

• Never provide personal or financial information over the phone or email to someone unknown for alleged lottery or prize winnings.

• Report suspicious activity to the Iowa Attorney General’s Office or local law enforcement.

If you or someone you know has been targeted by a lottery scam, contact the Iowa Attorney General’s office at 888-777-4590 or file a complaint online: https://www. iowaattorneygeneral.gov/for-consumers/file-a-consumer-complaint.

-accessible, affordable and equitable healthcare -investment in jobs and inflation reduction -support of families, not corporate issues

Molly is running for Linn County Supervisor; she has been in both the state House and Senate for a total of six years. With her experience, she will be a champion for Linn County issues including: -infrastructure -mental and public health -economic development -public education -clean water -parks and recreation -natural resources

Nancy Rife

Linn County Democrats for Democracy, Mount Vernon

Saving money on your auto insurance

Sonya Sellmeyer Consumer Advocacy Officer for the Iowa Insurance Division

Auto insurance is a necessary expense for drivers, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. According to the Insurance Information Institute, Iowa had the third least expensive auto insurance in 2021 with an average expenditure of $725.30. Still, the U.S. Department of Labor states auto insurance rates rose 19.5% over the last year. Consumers can effectively save money on their auto insurance premiums.

Here’s how:

Compare quotes from different insurance companies regularly. Prices can vary significantly between insurers for

the same coverage. Many insurers offer discounts if you bundle multiple policies, such as auto and home insurance. Inquire about discounts for being a safe driver or good student, or affiliations with certain organizations or employers.

Increasing your deductible typically means lower premiums. Just make sure you can afford the deductible in case of a claim by having an emergency fund to cover any deductible expenses you may incur.

Safe driving habits can lead to lower premiums over time. Avoid accidents and traffic violations. Some companies may offer lower rates when you install an app on your phone to monitor your driving habits.

Consider the type of car you drive. Vehicles with high safety ratings and lower repair costs generally have lower insurance rates. Before purchasing a car, research insurance costs associated with different makes and models to make an informed decision.

Review your coverage needs. For instance, if your car’s value has decreased, you might not need comprehensive coverage anymore.

Some insurers offer lower premiums for drivers who drive fewer miles. Payas-you-drive programs, which base premiums on the number of miles driven, can also be cost-effective for low-mileage drivers.

Your credit and insurance score may also factor into your premium. A credit score predicts the likelihood of paying back a loan, and an insurance score determines the probability of an insurance loss. An insurance score is calculated using the information on your credit report and not your annual income, ethnic group, age, gender, and other similar factors. A high insurance score translates to less probability of filing an insurance claim, thus leading to lower premiums. Ask your

insurance carrier about access to your insurance score.

Insurers offer discounts for cars with safety features like anti-lock brakes, airbags, and anti-theft devices. Make sure the proper vehicle identification number for your vehicle is submitted to your agent so you receive discounts for these features.

Paying your premium in one lump sum annually rather than monthly may lead to savings.

Maintaining continuous auto insurance coverage which demonstrates reliability to insurers and may lead to lower premiums over time.

If you are unable to obtain coverage in the voluntary market, the Iowa Auto Insurance Plan may provide you access to automobile insurance coverage. Speak to a licensed insurance agent if you need to inquire.

The Iowa Insurance Division licenses many auto insurance carriers. To find the appropriate policy for your situation, speak to a licensed insurance agent regarding insurance options. Exploring your options may provide the most affordable coverage.

Linn County Board of Supervisors approves updated utility-scale wind ordinance

The Linn County Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved an updated ordinance for utility-scale wind projects in Linn County following the third and final reading of the ordinance. The updated ordinance is effective upon publication in the Gazette, which is expected to happen within the next week.

The updated ordinance amendments were developed by Linn County Planning & Development staff using lessons learned from the Renewable Energy Review Committee input and utility-scale solar projects, as well as an analysis of current wind ordinance best practices.

Changes in the updated ordinance include:

• Minimum setbacks of two times the height of the wind turbine

• Setting the allowable noise level at the property line of 55 dBa and ensuring the level is checked and verified every five years

• Establishing debris clean-up requirements

• Specifying maintenance procedures for grounding equipment

• Encouraging the use of local labor in construction/installation of renewable energy projects

Linn County launches

OpenGov budget dashboard, earns distinguished budget presentation award

Linn County is now using OpenGov, an online budget tool to provide additional transparency to the County’s annual budget and budget process. The OpenGov dashboard allows residents to click through financial information and see how taxpayer dollars are used to

Linn County values resident and stakeholder engagement. So, in addition to public comment opportunities, residents were invited to read a draft of the proposed ordinance amendments on the Linn County website and submit their feedback via an online form. The feedback was presented alongside the proposed changes to the Planning & Zoning Commission and Board of Supervisors.

“Linn County’s updated utility-scale wind ordinance is balanced, holds corporations liable if things go wrong, and takes into consideration the quality of life for the people of Linn County,” said

fund public programs and services. Linn County’s use of OpenGov is part of the County’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

The dashboard provides an overview of the budget process, expenditure and revenue summary by department, the capital projects budget, and more.

“The launch of the OpenGov dashboard represents a significant step forward in our commitment to transparency and community engagement,” said Linn County Supervisor Chair Kirsten Running-Marquardt. “This innovative tool not only provides our residents with accessible information about their tax dollars, but it does so in a way that’s easy to understand.”

The information in OpenGov has historically been included in the County’s annual budget documents, which are more than 100 pages. The dashboard makes it easier for residents to find budget information quickly or to take their time scrolling through the pages.

Linn County’s fiscal year 2025, which began July 1, 2024, is Linn County’s first budget year using OpenGov. Linn County received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Offi-

Linn County Supervisor Chair Kirsten Running-Marquardt. “I am proud to have worked on this ordinance. By participating in site visits, and most importantly listening to the people of Linn County, we were able to update the ordinance to balance the viewpoints of our community. Our attention to detail is what keeps Linn County a leader in renewable energy.”

A copy of the updated utility-scale wind ordinance is available on the Linn County website.

Sign up to be notified of future meetings and agendas by visiting our Agenda & Minutes webpage.

cers Association (GFOA) in recognition of the County’s efforts for the fiscal year 2025 budget presentation. It is Linn County’s 29th consecutive year receiving this prestigious award.

The GFOA awards and the use of OpenGov reflect Linn County’s commitment to meeting and exceeding the highest principles of governmental budgeting through innovative programs and outstanding financial management.

Each year the County’s budget is developed through a series of public meetings, presented to the public during a public hearing, and is then adopted by the Linn County Board of Supervisors.

To view Linn County’s OpenGov budget dashboard, visit LinnCountyIowa.gov.

Committee of the Year: Lisbon Historic Preservation Commission

Nathan Countryman

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

Preserving Lisbon’s history and protecting many of Lisbon’s historical buildings is what has landed Lisbon Historic Preservation Commission as Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development group’s committee of the year.

CDG noted the work that has went into getting both the Lisbon Main Street and Meyers Farmstead barns and outbuildings recognized on the National Register of Historic Places as reasons for the group’s nomination, as well as the repairs to Lisbon Public Library and Lisbon History Center.

“We thank the CDG for acknowledging our volunteer commission and all those who help us accomplish our goals to make our community a better place to live and work,” said Lisbon Historic Preservation Commission president Rebecca Hess.

Hess said that the group has enjoyed working together to improve the community; cultivate relationships with others who understand and support the group’s mission; research and discover solutions to problems and issues that arise.

“We often use the phrase ‘together(with our partners) we can do more,’” Hess said.

This year’s projects include the completion of masonry restoration of the Lisbon History Center and masonry repair on the Lisbon Public Library.

Their other focus has been on the Meyers

Farmstead Historic District and restoring and rehabilitating the barns and other structures within it.

“This included working with the architectural firm, OPN to produce a detailed preservation plan,” Hess said. “This plan analyzed their structural integrity, provided estimated costs of repair, restoration, and rehabilitation, and possible public uses.

“We have been working with the city of Lisbon and our many partners in an effort to save these barns since the city’s insurance company deemed them unstable and wants them demolished. This effort continues today.”

Their work has also been working with the city for the Lisbon Downtown Reinvestment Grant program, which awards grants for rehabilitating and restoring commercial buildings in the Main Street Historic District. Four grants were awarded in 2023, and more than 36 projects have been completed in the past 12 years.

“We work with building owners to protect and preserve the buildings in our Main Street Historic District, saving these historical resources and improving the appeal of our Main Street,” Hess said.

Commission members include Hess, Marc Mohn (vice-chair), Alexandra McKendree (secretary) and Amelia Kibbie. Longtime commission member Ann Opatz resigned May 2024.

Challenges for the organization include educating people in decision-making roles regarding the value of historic preservation to our community, and the proposed uses of

Past honorees for MVLCDG

The following are the past honorees of the Community Development Group and Chamber of Commerce. NOTE –(C): Citizen of the Year; (M): Merchant of the Year; (A): Above and Beyond; (B): Business of the Year; (V): Volunteer of the Year; (CM): Committee of the Year; (PR) Project of the Year).

1984

– Bud Lent (C)

1985 – Martin, Jackie (C); Prall, Dr. DDS (M)

1986 – Peters, Richard (C); Stoll, Carroll (M)

1987 – McCutcheon, Jas. W. and Ruth (C); Stoltz, Richard and Viola (M)

1988 – McWilliams, John (C)

1989 – Edelman, Robert (M); Moser, John (C)

1990 – Dietrich, Gary (M); Smith, Mike (C)

1991 – Rieniets, Lorna & Ray (M); Rogers, T. Edwin (C)

1992 – N/A

1993 – Booth, Ann (M); Kirkpatrick, Leo (C)

1994 – Purvis, Larry (M); Stoner, Vivian (C)

1995 – Koppenhaver, Ann (A); Stolls (M); Stoner, Jean (C)

1996 – Brown, Loyd and Sue (A); Pavel ka, Lois (C); Shepley Pharmacy (M)

1997 – Alger, Faye and Larry (M); Booth, Ann (C); Pizza Palace (M); Snyder, Sue (A)

Spots

LECC Farmer’s market

Lisbon Early Childhood Center (LECC) will be holding a farmer’s market from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9, in the LECC lobby that is open to the public. Items for sale will be purchasable for cash only, to help allow students to utilize money counting skills.

Donations of baked goods, fresh vegetables, fruit or jam can be made up until Friday for the cause.

One hundred percent of the proceeds will go towards purchasing new toys and activities for the school-aged program at LECC.

Summer reading lock-in

Lisbon Public Library will be holding a summer reading lock-in Friday, Aug. 9, from 6 to 8 p.m. for youth ages 8 to 12. Come eat pizza, make smoothies, sing karaoke and complete a craft. Registration in advance is requested by

rehabilitated spaces, and of course, finding time in their own busy schedules for that work.

As for what’s next for the commission, Hess said they plan to extend their partnership with the school and continue to provide educational opportunities for students to learn about Lisbon’s history.

“We also plan to continue to be the voice for the historic buildings and places that can’t speak for themselves,” Hess said. “To continue to educate the public about the economic value of historic preservation. To engage with the community in order to understand their needs, to continue our own education and building of connections with other organizations so that we can provide the city and its taxpayers with the best and most knowledgeable advice regarding its historic assets.”

The commission would like to extend thanks to the people and organizations who have worked so hard to assist the commission in their efforts to promote, protect and preserve the history of Lisbon.

1998 – McClain, Joe (A); Rife, Gladys (C); Mount Vernon Insurance (M)

1999 – Bauman & Co (M); Bova, La Vonne (A); Hills Bank (M); Larsen, Iris (C); Meers, Geneva (A); Wellso, Carolyn (C)

2000 – Lynch Ford (A); Rieniets, Lorna & Ray (C); Neal’s Water Conditioning (M)

2001 – Liberty Iron Works — Kasey & Dale Merrill (M); Bardsley, John (C); Cornell College (A); Garner, Les (A); Don Stine (Special)

2002 – Fordyce, Ed (A); Gary’s Foods (M); Hess, Becky (C)

2003 – Blooming Acres — Owen, Becka (M); Early Morning Downtown Weeder & Planter (A); Guillaume, Fran & Cherie (C)

2004 – Elliott, Rick (A); Geinzer, Guy (C); Lincoln Café — Matt Steigerwald (M)

2005 – Greb, Mark (A); Plaza Auto Action (A); Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun — Jake Krob (M); Sauter, Edward (C)

2006 – Borg, Dean (C); Polly Ann’s Antiques (M); Southeast Linn Community Center (A)

2007 – Rexroat, Dee Ann (C); Big Creek Market (M); O’Connor, Beryl (A); Mount Vernon School District (Special)

2008 – Mount Vernon Bank and Trust (M); Wolfe, Bob (V); Hill, Bob (V)

2009 – NA

2010 – Skillet Café (M); Galen Lacey (V); Eric Krob (V)

2011 – Hills Bank (B); Dean Traver (V)

signing up at the library’s website or emailing Elizabeth at eliazabeth@lisbon.lib.ia.us.

Special story time

Join Lisbon Public Library for a special Sauerkraut Days morning story time at Lincoln Square Park. Lisbon graduate Zelle Crawford will be reading her book “Bomba Bebe” in a bilingual story time Friday, Aug. 16, from 10 to 11 a.m.

Auditions for Neil Simon’s Rumors

Join Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Theater for a farcical frolic with “Neil Simon’s Rumors,” directed by Kerry Covington.

Auditions will be held in the Uptown Theater in the First Street Community Center in Mount Vernon on Aug. 18 and 19 at 7 p.m. Callbacks will be held Tuesday, Aug. 20, at 7 p.m. if needed.

Auditioners will read sections of the script. There is nothing to prepare. Please arrive early to fill out an audition and scheduling form. OR sign up online at

year has been preserving the Meyers Farmstead barns. Work is still ongoing on preserving these historic structures in the City of Lisbon. Another project the commission has worked on has been having the paint removed and damaged bricks repaired to Lisbon History Center’s exterior wall. Similar efforts have been made to the Lisbon Public Library building as well.

2012 – Fuel (B); Carol Chamberlain (V); Jim Wallace (C)

2013 – Tom Wieseler (C); Chameleon’s Pub & Grub (B); Project Bright Idea (CM); Trude Elliott (V)

2014 – Nola Owens (C); M & K Dust Control, Inc. (B); ZIP Code Day Committee (CM); Cheryl Russell (V); Save the Field (Special)

2015 – Fred & Marion Lehman (C); Kim Benesh (V); Helios Stitches N Stuff (B); Chili Cook-Off Committee (CM); Lisbon Parks and Rec (Special)

2016 – Craig Allin (C); Lee Hilliker (V); Bon Appetit (B); Animenagerie Committee (CM); Sauerkraut Days and Heritage Days (Special)

2017 – Amy White and Cathy Boggs (C); Braden Rood (V); ABCM Corp (B); Nitty Gritty (CM)

2018 – Ed Sauter (C); Beryl O’Connor (C); Amy Haney (V); Silver Spider (B); Smithsonian (CM)

2019 — Judy and Don Stine (C); Sherene Player (V); Budget Blinds (B); Main Street Iowa Spring Workshop (CM)

2020 — Citizens of Mount Vernon and Lisbon (C); Mike Smith (V); Kae Apothecary (B); Cold Turkey Challenge (PR); Magical Night (CM).

2021 – Rich and Debra Herrmann (C), Dolly Parton Imagination Library (PR), Glyn Mawr: The Local (B), Mount Vernon Baseball team (V), Heritage Days Committee (CM).

2022 – Mark Kerr (C), Iron Leaf Press (B), Lisa Lansing (V), Chalk the Walk (CM).

https://forms.gle/2S2QyfVPrkSy1hQn8

This show is open to auditioners aged 18 and older. Cast- 5M/5W

Show dates are Oct. 18 through 20 and Oct. 25 and 26

Curtain at 7:30 p.m. for Friday and Saturday shows, and 2 p.m. for Sunday matinee.

SHOW SYNOPSIS:

When they gather to celebrate a tenth wedding anniversary, four New York power couples experience a severe attack of Farce.

At a large, tastefully appointed Sneden’s Landing townhouse, the Deputy Mayor of New York has just shot himself. Though it’s only a flesh wound, Charlie Brock’s self-inflicted injury sets off a series of events causing four couples to experience a severe attack of farce.

As their tenth wedding anniversary party commences, Charlie lies bleeding in another room, and his wife Myra is nowhere in sight. The first guests, lawyer Ken Gorman and his wife Chris, scramble to get “the story” straight before the other guests arrive. As the confusions and miscommunications mount, the evening spins off into classic farcical hilarity.

Sun file photos

One of the large projects the Lisbon Historic Preservation Commission has tackled this

Donald (Don) Arthur Feaker, 65, of Lisbon, passed away Sunday, July 28, from complications of a stroke and cancer.

Visitation was Friday, Aug. 2, at Stewart Baxter & Memorial Services in Mount Vernon. Funeral was Saturday, Aug. 3, at Living Hope Global Methodist Church in Lisbon. Burial will follow at Mount Vernon Cemetery.

Don was born Dec. 8, 1958, in Webster City, the son of Beryl and Nelva (Craven) Feaker. He was united in marriage to Terrie Moore on June 25, 1976.

Don volunteered for the Mount Vernon Fire Department from January 1980 - December 1997. He was assistant chief from January 1987 – December 1991. He then was fire chief from January 1992 – December 1993. He loved the thrill of the fire department and helping his community.

He worked for J&D locker, different painting companies, and retired from Cedar Rapids Schools as a paint foreman.

Don is survived by his wife, children, Donald (Amber) Feaker Jr., Danielle (Mark) Feaker, and Derek (Ashley) Feaker; grandchildren, Lily (Ohana), Bella (Raif), Anna, Jimmy, Charlie, Henry, William, Robbie, Spencer, Mister (Trinity), Aleighsia, and Brynlee; great-grandchildren, Anthony and Iris; godson, Rayne Ballsteadt; brother, Larry (Dawn) Feaker; sister’s, Pam (Ozzie) Simonds, Cindy (Tim) Johnson, and Ronda (Keevin) Schaffer; brotherin-law, Jim (Vickie) Moore; sister’s-in-law, Tammy (Tracy) Fredericks, and Tracy (Cliff) Dyer; mother and father-in-law, James (Dorothy) Moore; several nieces and nephews; and several great nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

Don loved his family with all his heart. He will be missed by many. Love you.

Memorials may be directed to Terrie Feaker.

Please share your support and memories with Don’s family on his Tribute Wall at www.stewartbaxter.com under Obituaries

Thomas “Tom” “Buck” Bova, loving father, son, brother, uncle, and friend passed away Monday, July 29, 2024, at the age of 72, at his home in Lisbon. Visitation was Monday, Aug. 5, at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services in Mount Vernon. Funeral service was Tuesday at the funeral home with burial following at Lisbon Cemetery.

Tom was born May 17, 1952, son to John and LaVonne (Vandeberg) Bova. Tom graduated from Lisbon High School in 1970 and completed two years of college at Kirkwood.

Tom’s favorite things were watching his nephews and son participate in sports. He was a fan of the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Blackhawks, and especially anything connected with the University of Notre Dame. He enjoyed listening to 50’s rock and Neil Young, and was known for his dry, witty sense of humor.

Tom is survived by his son, Derek Bova; siblings, Gregg Bova, Barb Bova, and Lynette (Doug) Bova-Butteris; nieces and nephews, Jeremiah Butteris, Zachary Butteris, Michelle Jones, and Megan Jones; and great-nieces and nephews, Emily Jones, Violet Butteris, Branzen Butteris, and Bella Butteris. He was preceded in death by his parents, John “Chum” and LaVonne “Peewee” Bova. Memorials may be may to the family.

Please share your support and memories with Tom’s family on his Tribute Wall at www.stewartbaxter.com under Obituaries.

Be Original 4-H Club

The July Be Original 4H meeting consisted of everything fair week. We talked about everything that has to do with fair week, and what it has to offer. After discussing the topic of fair week, more discussion about what the Be Original 4H group will do for the Lisbon City Park was discussed. A new digger was placed in the city park thanks to our 4H club, and the help from the city of Lisbon! Now that fair week is over, we are working on more additions, like picnic tables, being added to the city park.

By Lauren Stolte, Club reporter

Wartburg graduates

Wartburg College awarded diplomas to 211 students during Spring Commencement on Sunday, May 26.

Samantha Bennett, of Lisbon, graduated with a bach elor of arts in biochemistry and Spanish.

Tyler Fall, of Lisbon, graduated cum laude with a bachelor of music education in music education.

Simpson College dean’s list

Simpson College announced that 204 students made the dean’s list for the Spring 2024 semester. Students named to the dean’s list achieved a GPA between 3.70 and 3.99.

Locals named to the dean’s list include:

Hunter Clark of Lisbon, Ben Gilbert Binder of Martelle, Avery Plathe of Mount Vernon and Jenna Woodward of Mechanicsvlle.

Bridge improvement project to begin August 1 on Linn Benton Road

A bridge improvement began Aug. 1 on Linn Ben ton Road south of Walford, near the Linn Johnson and Linn Benton Road intersection. The project includes a new surface on the bridge deck, new approaches to the bridge, grading under the bridge to reduce erosion, and new guardrails for increased safety.

Linn Benton Road will be closed to all traffic during the project. A detour will be posted for this project. The project is expected to last six weeks.

Motorists are reminded to comply with all traffic signs around construction projects. Do not drive around the barricades in place to protect the public and road crews.

To receive text or email updates on this and other Linn County Secondary Road construction projects, visit nCountyIowa.gov/NotifyMe.

Cole Corner

Cathy Boggs Cole Library

Come discuss books with others Aug. 20 at Cole

With the end of summer comes the beginning of our adult book discussion groups. If you have ever considered joining one of the two adult book discussion groups at Cole Library, it’s the perfect time to do it.

The August meeting for both groups is Tuesday, Aug. 20. The daytime book discussion group meets in the morning from 9:30 – 11 a.m. in Room 310. They will The Churchill Sisters: The Extraordinary Lives of Winston and Clementine’s by Rachel Trethewey. If you would like to

The evening book discussion group will also meet August 20 from 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. in Room 310. This is the first meeting of the year so each member brings 2-3 book suggestions to share with the group. After thepiled list of books so that they can vote on our titles for

These two book groups are open to anyone willing to read and engage in a discussion about the selected books.

Aug. 1 – Accident, Hwy 30, Mount Vernon

Aug. 1 – Disturbance, 300 blk Third St NW, Mount Vernon

Aug. 1 – Unlicensed peddler, Martha St, Lisbon

Aug. 1 – Medical, 900 blk W. Main St, Lisbon

Aug. 1 – Medical, 300 blk First Ave SW, Mount Vernon

Aug. 1 – Juvenile issue, 380 Old Lincoln Hwy, Mount Vernon

Aug. 1 – Trespassing, 700 blk Fifth Ave NW, Mount Vernon

Aug. 1 – Medical, 500 blk business 30, Mount Vernon

Aug. 2 – Medical, 500 blk business 30, Mount Vernon

Aug. 2 – Suspicious vehicle, 300 blk business 30, Mount Vernon

Aug. 2 – Suspicious vehicle, 400 blk Third St SW, Mount Vernon

Aug. 2 – Welfare check, 400 blk W. Main St, Lisbon

Aug. 2 – Medical, 200 blk W. South St, Lisbon

Aug. 2 – Trespassing, 700 blk Fifth Ave NW, Mount Vernon

Aug. 2 – Disturbance, 400 blk Scobey Rd, Mount Vernon

Aug. 2 – Welfare check, Hwy 30, Mount Vernon

Aug. 3 – Alarm, 200 blk School St, Lisbon

Aug. 3 – Medical, 200 blk business 30, Mount Vernon

Aug. 3 – Animal bite, 100 blk Candlestick Dr NE, Mount Vernon

Aug. 3 – Welfare check, 300 blk Candlestick Dr NE, Mount Vernon

Aug. 3 – Suspicious property, 100 blk Virgil Ave, Mount Vernon

Aug. 3 – Alarm, 200 blk business 30, Mount Vernon

Aug. 4 – Suspicious vehicle, 300 blk Virgil Ave, Mount Vernon

Aug. 4 – Medical, 200 blk Adams Ave, Lisbon

Aug. 4 – Medical, 400 blk W. Main St, Lisbon

Aug. 4 – Medical, 900 blk W. Main St, Lisbon

Aug. 4 – Disturbance, 1225 First Ave NW, Mount Vernon

Aug. 4 – Disturbance, 900 blk Second Ave NW, Mount

4 –

Aug. 4 – Agency assist- accident, Johnson Co Aug. 5 – Disturbance, Hwy 30, Mount Vernon

Don Feaker

Tom Bova

MV volleyball players win national title

Participate in team development in California

Ryan Suchomel

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com

It has been an eventful summer for Mount Vernon seniors Chloe Meester and Sydney Maue.

The future Division I volleyball players won a national volleyball title with their club team, Adrenaline 17 Ben, on July 6 in Las Vegas.

Then they participated in the NTDP (National Team Development Program) Summer Training Series with USA Volleyball last week in Anaheim, Calif.

“It has been really fun,” Meester said. “I get to meet a lot of my friends and it’s fun to build relationships.

“(In Vegas) we started off a little rough, but got out of it quickly. That last game, we didn’t give up; we kept pushing. We wanted to keep playing and end it on a good note.”

The event was the USAV Girls Junior National Championships, held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. There were many ages and skill levels. Adrenaline 17 Ben competed in the 17 National class.

“It is a big deal,” Adrenaline director Marty Smith said. “We’re not the first team from Iowa to win it … but it is impressive, high-level

volleyball.”

And it did not come easy.

Adrenaline 17 Ben (the many Adrenaline teams are named after the coach of the team, in this case, Ben Bahr) went 4-1 in pool play July 3 and July 4 to advance. They went 1-1 on Friday, finished second, then won a challenge match against Minnesota Select to earn a spot in the Gold bracket.

On Saturday, Adrenaline 17 Ben beat Premier Nebraska 17 Gold 25-19, 24-26, 19-17, in the quarterfinals and Mintonette Sports 25-15, 25-15 in the semifinals.

In the championship, they beat AVC CLE 17 Red (a Cleveland-based club) 25-27, 34-32, 15-8.

That second set in the championship was a doozy.

“They fought off five match points to get that done,” Smith said. “For a good chunk of time I wasn’t sure that was going to happen. That final was one of best matches you could watch.”

“Winning that second set was a breath of fresh air,” Maue said. “Everyone was freaked out. It was super fun. Then we dominated the third set.

“They had more chances to win than we did, but we pulled through when it counted.”

Both Meester and Maue earned

all-tournament honors, with Meester being named the captain of the all-tournament team.

“There were some matches (Chloe) just took over,” Smith said. “Everything was clicking. Every time she touched the ball, it was a kill. That doesn’t happen at this level very often.”

Smith said that Maue, who transferred to Mount Vernon from Center Point-Urbana midway through her junior year, was scary good, too.

“Her being left-handed helps a ton, and her jumping ability is amazing,” Smith said. Maue won a state title in the high jump as a sophomore with CPU. “She’s coming into her own. No one could stop her.”

For those who follow area volleyball, the rest of the Adreniline 17 Ben roster included: Dakota Mitchell, Mid-Prairie; Carley Jonker, Xavier; Addie Bomelyn, Rock Island, Ill.; Kate Passmore, Linn-Mar; Kate Shafer, Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont; Molly Shafer, Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont; Taylor Rexroth, Xavier; and Jenna Younge, C.R. Kennedy.

Meester and Maue were then invited to the NTDP Summer Training Series, which includes current and future Division I

players from around the country (Meester is committed to Louisville, and Maue to Arkansas). Some will be chosen for the national team. The program develops future Olympians.

Both Meester and Maue took part last year, as well.

Back home, there will not be much time to relax before high school volleyball practice begins Monday, Aug. 12.

Mount Vernon, the runner-up in

Kernoustie names club champion for 2024 season

It wasn’t too long-ago Kayden Pendergrass was mowing the greens at Kernoustie Golf Club.

Now, the former Mustang is the king of them.

Pendergrass, who will be a senior at Central College this fall, claimed the men’s club championship at Kernoustie on Sunday, July 28.

“I have spent a lot of time on that course,” Pendergrass said. “This win is special because of Mark (Kerr) and the other members of the club have had a big impact on me.”

Pendergrass won the 27-hole event with a score of 101 strokes. He finished three strokes ahead of the field. Andy Kahl shot a 104 and was runner-up, after winning a playoff against John Rhomberg (104). Darin Vig (105) was fourth and Blake Covington (106) was fifth.

“It was a very strong field,” Kerr said. “He bested seven former champions.”

Pendergrass didn’t start playing golf much until “the summer after my freshman year,” he said. Then he started work

at the golf course.

Class 3A a year ago, will be a heavy favorite to return to state, and win it all, especially after adding Maue.

“You rarely see two Division I players on the same team,” Smith said. “They are going to be pretty tough.”

“I’m looking forward to that a ton,” Meester said. “The dynamic duo. One of us will be in the front row at all times.”

The Mustangs open the season Thursday, Aug. 29, in Pella.

“I played a lot of golf and spent a lot of time out there,” Pendergrass said. “My main job was mowing greens, but I did some other jobs.”

It was the third time he’s played in the club championship.

His golf game has grown during his time in Pella. As a junior with the Dutch, Pendergrass averaged 79.71 strokes over 21 rounds. Central College finished third in the spring at the American Rivers Conference Championship. Pendergrass finished tied for 14th individually over three rounds at 22-over.

“I definitely saw progress in my game towards the end of spring,” Pendergrass said. “No light bulb moments, just consistent work that started to amount to some positive things.” Pendergrass started the single-day event strong, but it was the third round where he really separated from the pack.

“I was 3-under through the first four holes,” Pendergrass said. “Three birdies. Then I had a big up-and-down on No. 5 from 30 yards off the green to keep that momentum going.”

He played the final round with Kahl and Rhomberg.

“I wasn’t thinking about anyone else and how they were playing,” Pendergrass said. “Then I might be too unfocused.”

Central opens the fall season Sept. 1 at the Transylvania Fall Invitational in Lexington, Ky. After his final year of college, Pendergrass plans to continue with golf, in some form. “I will definitely stick with it,” he said.

Also from the club championship:

· Vig won the Senior Division (50-and-over) with a score of 70.

· Kahl won the first flight with a 69. Scott Ehlts won the second flight with a 75. Chad Wollum won the third flight with an 82. Nate Nammany won the fourth flight with an 89. · Nick Ehlts shot an opening 9-hole score of 30 for the low nine hole round of the day.

· The 5 Flag event winners were: Blake Covington, Nate Namanny, Steve Adams, Al Randall and Nick Ehlts.

· Special prize award winners went to Davey Rooks and Steve Vittetoe.

Contributed photo

Sydney Maue (left) and Chloe Meester (right) won a national volleyball title in Las Vegas, Nevada, and then went on to participate in the National Team Development Program Summer Training series in Anaheim, Calif.

Contributed photo

Kayden Pendergrass was named the Kernoustie Golf Club champion in their recent season tournament held in late July.

GOLF

Gookin sisters lead MV

All-State softball picks

Ryan Suchomel

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com

Everyone knows that the Gookin sisters are great softball players. But apparently, they are also as tough as rusty nails.

Freshman Hayden Gookin was a firstteam all-state pick in Class 3A for the Iowa Girls Coaches Association. Senior Addison Gookin was a second-team pick.

Both played hurt, Mount Vernon coach Robin Brand revealed.

“Hayden was throwing the last couple weeks with a broken foot,” Brand said. “Addison played with a broken thumb most of the season.”

Hayden Gookin, the WaMaC East Player of the Year, hit .446 with 14 doubles, three triples, a school-record 10 home runs and 32 RBIs. She also had a 21-6 pitching mark with a 0.74 ERA and 247 strikeouts in 171.1 innings pitched.

“She set high goals and standards for herself, and worked all season to obtain those,” Brand said. “I’m excited for everything she

did. She needs to heal. I know she’ll go on to do great things.”

She was one of two freshmen (Aubree Greenwood of West Marshall) to earn firstteam laurels in 3A.

Brand said the break was in her drive foot. Every time she pushed off the pitching rubber, it probably didn’t feel very good.

“She had a team-first mentality,” Brand said. “She’d have felt better if we made it to state.”

Senior Addison Gookin (.310, 34 runs, 8 2B, 3 HR, 20 RBI, 11 SB) was named second team all-state.

“She leads this team in so many intangibles,” Brand said. “I’m so proud of what she’s done for us. The goal for any player is to leave the program better than they found it. And our seniors have done that. I couldn’t be prouder.”

Senior Kenna Rollinger (.316, 10 2B, 34 RBI) was a third-team pick.

“Kenna was the best catcher we’ve ever had behind the plate, leading, her mental game, staying positive, her high softball IQ,” Brand said. “I couldn’t have asked for more.”

Lisbon SB makes All-state teams

Ryan Suchomel

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

ryan.suchomel@mvlsun.com

Lisbon followed its seventh-straight state tournament trip last week with three players honored as all-state by the Iowa Girls Coaches Association.

Lisbon senior Addi Petersen added to her postseason haul with a first team pick in Class 2A. The senior hit .345 with 41 runs, 12 doubles, 7 home runs, 28 RBI and 13 SB for the Lions. She also had a 7-2 pitching mark with a 4.18 ERA and 45 strikeouts in 73.2 innings pitched.

“Addi was a huge asset to our team,” Lisbon coach Abby Shultz said. “Not

Wirfs gets contract

only her softball abilities, but her leadership. The team really looked up to her, and the way she carried herself made everyone want to get better.”

Junior Addie Clark (.360, 44 runs, 7 2B, 16 RBI, 20 SB) and eighth grader Kyla Kahl (23-9, 3.26 ERA, 142 K in 172 IP) were second-team selections.

“Addie was very clutch at the plate, her hits changed the game,” Shultz said. “I can never tell if the pressure is getting to her or not, she looks the same, no matter what.

“Kyla … it is incredible an eighth grader got on the all-state team (one of three in 2A). She kept getting better all of the time and was very reliable. It is fun knowing she’s only an eighth grader, and she’ll keep getting this honor.”

Former Mount Vernon prep Tristan Wirfs became the highest-paid offensive lineman in the NFL history last week.

Wirfs and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers agreed Thursday, Aug. 1, to a 5-year, $140.63 million extension.

The three-time Pro Bowl tackle said afterwards he was happy to remain a Buccaneer.

“I don’t really want to be anywhere else” he said. “It’s pretty nice here.”

Wirfs, 25, was drafted 13th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft after a standout college career with the Iowa Hawkeyes. He won a Super Bowl ring in his rookie season, with Tom Brady at quarterback.

Both seniors were part of the 3A runner-up team in 2021 and the 3A championship team in 2022. Both played last weekend in the Senior All-Star Series in Waukee.

“I was glad to see them finish on a high note,” Brand said. “They both played really well and made Mount Vernon look good.” Addison Gookin plans to play softball at Winona State.

Elementary School

Open House for Preschool, Begindergarten & Kindergarten Students Wednesday, August 21 from 3:30 - 5 p.m. 1st - 4th Grade Supply Dropo Wednesday, August 21 from 4:30 - 6 p.m.

Popsicles on the

Know Before You Go to the Iowa State Fair

Here are a few things you should know before you go to the Iowa State Fair this year.

BUY TICKETS NOW

Purchase advance admission tickets online at www.iowastatefair.org or in person at the Iowa State Fair ticket office or area Hy-Vee and Fareway stores. Advance admission tickets are good any one day of the fair. Adult tickets are $11 and $7 for children ages 6-11. Children under 5 are free. August 8-18, admission tickets are $16 for adults and $10 for children. Skip the lines and save money!

Grandstand tickets are still available for most shows and can be purchased at www. iowastatefair.org. Beware of third-party ticket sellers and only purchase your Grandstand tickets from the Iowa State Fair. Select Ag Experience tickets for Fair After Dark and the new Llama Love family event are also on sale while supplies last.

SAVE MONEY

Purchase discounted Thrill Park passes before August 8 and save. Advance Thrill Passes are good every day of the Fair on rides and games for $30. Advance One-Day Ride Wristbands are also on sale for $40, but are limited to use on Monday-Thursday and do not include game credits. Both these deals disappear when the Fair starts.

Value packs (save over $12) for select Fair favorites are still on sale but only available at the Iowa State Fair ticket office until August 7.

GETTING TO THE FAIR

Taxis, Uber and Lyft can pick up and drop

off at Gate 8 off Dean Ave. For location purposes, the address is 203 Rock Island, Des Moines, IA 50317.

Buses will be directed through Lot A off University Ave to the paved road north of the Grandstand and drop off is located at the west end of Lot A (Gate 13).

On-site parking is available off University Ave in Lots A, B and C for $10. Cash and credit/debit cards are accepted. These lots contain both paved and hard-packed ADA/ Accessible Parking spaces. Bicycle parking is free inside Gate 11 on Grand Ave.

PARK & RIDE

Three Park & Ride locations are available with free parking from 8:30 a.m. to midnight each day. DART buses will drop off and pick up at the DART Transit Hub, Gate 10 on the Fairgrounds.

• Center Street Park & Ride, 7th and Center Streets

• Iowa State Capitol, East 12th Street

• Southeast Polk High School, NE 80th Street and Highway 163

DART roundtrip fares are cash only the day of the ride ($2 Adult, $1 Children). Discounts are given for children 6-10, persons 65+ or persons with disabilities. Receive an additional half-off of your DART shuttle tickets when you purchase them through the MyDART app, available on iOS and Android. Showing Fair advance admission tickets does not provide any additional discounts.

FAIR HOURS

The Fair is open from 8 a.m. to midnight, August 8-17, and from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on August 18. Most buildings are open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thrill Ville and Thrill Zone are open

MV, Lisbon back to school events approaching

Nathan Countryman

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

Back to school is approaching for Mount Vernon and Lisbon Schools.

Mount Vernon

Open house for Washington Elementary Students is scheduled on Wednesday, Aug. 21, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Preschool, Begindergarten and kindergarten open house and meeting with teachers will be held 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Students in first through fourth grade can drop school supplies off in classrooms Wednesday, Aug. 21, from 4:30 to 6 p.m.

All elementary students are invited to participate in popsicles on the playground sponsored by Washington Elementary Teachers and Parents organization from 4:30 to 6 p.m. that evening.

The fifth grade meet and greet is Thursday, Aug. 22, from 3 to 4 p.m. That meet and greet is extended to any new sixth, seventh and eighth-grade students to the Mount Vernon School District as a chance to tour the school before school begins.

The ninth grade and new high school student orientation is Thursday, Aug. 22, from 9 to 11 a.m.

The first day of school for Mount Vernon Schools is Friday, Aug. 23. Classes begin at 8:15 a.m. with an early dismissal at 1:05 p.m. Families at Mount Vernon are encouraged

to fill out registration materials by Friday, Aug. 9. If you need to locate the school supply lists and registration materials, visit mvcsd.org/families. If you are new to the school district, contact the appropriate school (Washington Elementary preschool through fourth grade, Mount Vernon Middle School fifth through eighth grade and Mount Vernon High School ninth through 12th grade) to set up a time to visit the schools.

Lisbon

School supply lists for all students are listed on the school website Lisbon.k12. ia.us. Lisbon elementary students who pre-ordered school supplies will find their supplies on their desk at meet the teacher night.

Lisbon’s meet the teacher night and school supply drop-off is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 21, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Lisbon Parks and Recreation will host a back-to-school bash Wednesday, Aug. 21, serving from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The meal this year will be walking tacos with all of the fixings. Stop by for a bite to eat after meeting the teachers. Lisbon Public Library has also organized an appearance by Bluey at the community event.

New families to the Lisbon School District should contact the district office to arrange a tour of the building.

The first day of school for Lisbon is Friday, Aug. 23. The day will also be an early out day, with classes dismissing at 1:15 p.m.

10 a.m. to 11 p.m., weather permitting, and Thrill Town for little ones is open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. All rides and games close at 9 p.m. on the last night, Sunday, August 18. New! Please note the updated hours. From August 8-17, be sure and enter the Fair before 10 p.m. On the last day of the Fair, August 18, enter before 7 p.m.

PLAN YOUR DAY

Planning your day or days at the Fair is easy with our online daily program and official Iowa State Fair App. Search by date, location or keyword to create your very own personalized adventure.

GETTING AROUND THE FAIR

Additional picnic tables, shade structures and benches have been installed to make your visit more relaxing this year, but the Fairgrounds is still a big place. Please plan accordingly for additional walking and stay hydrated. Look for new water bottle refilling stations or visit a water bottle station through the Blue Ribbon Foundation. Shuttles for Fairgoers run from the First Church to the Campgrounds with a stop at Pioneer Hall. Scooter rentals are available at Gate 8, 10, 11, 13 & 15 or can be reserved ahead of time through HomeTown Mobility.

SAFETY

Safety is our number one priority. Please allow additional time for bag checks and metal detectors. Bags and purses are allowed but are subject to inspection at the gates and additional checks are made when entering the Grandstand.

Weather changes quickly in Iowa and

alerts from the National Weather Service impacting the Fairgrounds will be announced grounds-wide. Weather that could impact events or concerts will be shared directly with ticket holders and on social media.

In the case of an emergency, First Aid stations are located near the Ag Building and at the Service Center on Grand Ave. Kid find bracelets are available to little Fairgoers at all information booths, the Iowa State Fair Public Safety Building, in the Hall of Law and at the Des Moines Radio Group booth in front of the Grandstand.

TIPS

Wear proper clothing for August weather and comfortable shoes. Bring sunscreen and sealed bottles of water are allowed to carry in to help keep you hydrated.

Cash and credit cards are accepted at all of the Iowa State Fair food stands and vendors. Bags, purses and soft-sided coolers are allowed but are subject to inspection at the gates and at the Grandstand.

Stay up-to-date with all of the latest and greatest activities and news at the Iowa State Fair website or on the official Iowa State Fair App.

Text FAIR to 844.844.8508 for special offers, updates on concerts and daily activities, weather alerts and more.

Have fun! The Fair is the place to make memories, so don’t forget to have fun while you are here. Stay hydrated, map your day ahead of time, enjoy free shows and entertainment, ride a few rides, try new foods and grab a seat in the Grandstand. With over 3,000 events in 11 days, there is something for everyone!

The 2024 Iowa State Fair, Fair Fever, runs from August 8-18.

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

10:15 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, Aug. 8

Story Time, Cornell Public Library Byerly Room, 9:30 a.m.

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

Free summer lunch, Southeast Linn Community Center, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Summer movies for kids, Southeast Linn Community Center, 1 p.m.

Lisbon Library board meeting, Lisbon Library, 7 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 9

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

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

Lisbon Library summer reading lock-in party, Lisbon Library, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 10

Mexican cooking class: squash, Southeast Linn Community Center, 11 a.m. (pre-registration required)

Monday, Aug. 12

Mount Vernon School Board, Mount Vernon High School Library, 6:30 p.m. Lisbon City Council, Lisbon City Hall, 7 p.m.

200 E. Market St., 455-2000 livinghopegmc.org

Pastor: the Rev. Josh Swaim

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

Tuesday, Aug. 13

MVLCDG Volunteer appreciation party, Mount Vernon United Methodist Church basement, 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 14

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

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

SELCC Youth Enrichment Class, Southeast Linn Community Center, 1 p.m. and 2:30 pm. (registration required)

Lisbon parks and recreation Sauerkraut Days movie at the park presents “If,” Lisbon City Park, 9 p.m./dusk

Thursday, Aug. 15

Story Time, Cornell Public Library Byerly Room, 9:30 a.m.

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

Free summer lunch, Southeast Linn Community Center, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Summer movies for kids, Southeast Linn Community Center, 1 p.m.

Lisbon Library board meeting, Lisbon Library, 7 p.m.

Lisbon Sauerkraut Days ice cream social and community, Lisbon City Park, 6 p.m.

Across

1 Hit on, perhaps

7 *One of 32 in London

14 Like the architecture of the Alhambra

15 Name in an Oscars envelope, e.g.

16 Stuck waiting

17 Sustained oneself with

18 Restaurant add-on

19 *Teacher in a dojo

21 Journos report to them

22 Take to task

24 Start of a children’s rhyme with the line “Have you any wool?”

25 Lead-in to boarding

26 “Geez!”

27 Mind

29 Staple of Thursday night CBS programming during the 2000s

31 Six Flags coaster with a Spanish name

33 Played “Here comes the airplane!” with

38 Geographical locale whose name resembles a tractor when written in upper- and lowercase

39 *Home to Gonzaga University

40 Clandestine meetups

42 Like some skillets

43 ___ Speedwagon

44 Other: Sp.

46 Peeper that doesn’t make a sound

47 They’re older than seniors

49 Humanitarian support

51 Belgian town known for its restorative mineral springs

54 Be bold

55 *Environs

58 Get in a corpse pose

60 Let out a sigh

62 Superlative for a quiche or frittata

64 Register

65 Ladies who lunch, maybe

66 Did up

67 *Drawn-out story of travel woes?

Down

1 Like megaphones

2 “Get ready!” ... or what to do upon hearing the ends of the answers to the starred clues?

3 Red-haired Disney princess

4 ___ Tam (“Australia’s favorite cookie”)

5 Some PC ports

6 Eastern flycatcher

7 Wood used in some surfboards

8 Boo-boo

9 Sitarist Shankar

10 Potential product of asteroid mining

11 What an inflated glove may serve as for a cow costume

12 Highlight of a rock collection

13 University of Delaware’s Fightin’ Blue

14 Question after an absence

20 Second group to vote

23 Snack brand whose Japanese flavors include tuna mayonnaise and clam chowder

25 Two out of 10

28 Give a leg up to

29 Grove

30 Like chimneys

32 Dawning sounds

34 Helpful FYI

35 A good way

36 Ambient musician whose name is found in “white noise”

37 Hibernation spot 40 Wall Street worker 41 Unwinds 42 Wind up

45 Busted

48 Like Red Delicious apples

50 Painter Velázquez

52 Supplications

53 Checkout division

55 Mediterranean appetizer

56 “Great Scott!”

57 Not much to look at

59 Indie artist’s site

61 Short, for short

63 Certain network IDs

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.

Multiple injured, one fatality in Sunday crash in rural Solon

Nathan Countryman

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

Multiple people were injured in a crash on Hwy. 1 Sunday, Aug. 4 in rural Solon. The crash happened at the intersection of Hwy. 1 and 140th Street N.E. at 5:36 p.m.

According to Trooper Palas of the Iowa State Patrol, Thomas Richard Hebel Perkins, 41, of Cedar Rapids, was westbound on 140th Avenue in a 2015 Jeep Cherokee approaching Hwy. 1. Thomas Perkins failed to stop at the intersection, colliding with the rear portion of a 2013 Shadow Cruise camper being hauled by a 2013 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Randy Ray Rouse, 63, Mechanicsville. The Cherokee then proceeded into a collision with the driver’s side door of a Toyota Rav 4 driven by Usha Mallik, 77, of Iowa City, who was southbound on Hwy. 1. A 2011 Honda CRV driven by Becky Lu, 22, of Bettendorf, was damaged by debris from the camper in the crash.

Hwy. 1 was closed for a period of time following the crash to clean up the debris.

Mallik was declared deceased at the scene and transported to the Johnson County Medical Examiner.

Thomas, his wife Samantha, an infant passenger and Matthew John Charles, 46, of Paris, France, were injured in the crash. All were wearing seatbelts in the crash.

Thomas was transported to University of Iowa Hospitals by Aircare. Samantha, the infant and Charles were transported to University of Iowa Hospitals by a Johnson County Ambulance.

The vehicles were towed away by Holiday Towing of Tiffin.

Iowa State Patrol was assisted at the scene by crews from Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, North Liberty Police Department, and Solon and Mount Vernon first responders.

The crash remains under investigation by Iowa State Patrol.

Lisbon man injured in fairgrounds crash

Matthew J. Blinks, 21, Lisbon, was injured in a crash at the Jackson County Fairgrounds July 28 at 9:03 p.m. Blinks was LifeFlighted to University of Iowa Hospital for his injuries in the crash.

According to Iowa State Patrol Officer Runge with Post 12, Blinks was participating in a stunt at the fairgrounds where he attempted to jump a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado through a camper at the Maquoketa Speedway. Blinks collided with the camper and lost consciousness. The Silverado continued off the track and then across Hwy. 62 and came to rest after striking a residential shed.

Blinks was using a seatbelt in the crash.

According to reporting by KCRG TV9, Blinks narrowly missed colliding with a vehicle on Highway 62 driven by

ENTERTAINMENT

Janie Fitzpatrick, passing just in front of her.

“I just saw some kind of flash across the road,” Fitzpatrick said. “It was just so fast you really couldn’t make out what it was. I glanced to the left and noticed the fence had been taken out, to the right of me he crashed into the shed.”

Fitzpatrick said the call was so close to being worse because she had to stop at a stoplight.

“It was just nerve racking, definitely puts a scare into you,” Fitzpatrick said. “And it’s just like the matter of 30 seconds, me stopping at a stoplight. That 30 seconds could have ended our lives, you know, so close.”

Iowa State Patrol was assisted by Maquoketa Police, Maquoketa Fire and Maquoketa EMS. Iowa State Patrol is still investigating the crash.

urday night and have been a long-time performer at the festival. Lonesome Road mainly plays country covers.

Also on Friday will be the crowning of king and queen candidates and recognition of the Grand Marshall for this year’s Sauerkraut Days. Both events will take place at the main stage in the Kraut Tent.

There will be many other artists performing throughout the festival, including Arch and the Outlaws, Laurie Maher, Matt Gogel, and Terry McCauley.

Plus, all the free sauerkraut you can eat, as well as plenty of brats and other foods. Carnival rides also return for the festival this year.

A different kind of performance will take place at the Lisbon Public Library. Author Zelle Crawford will read her new children’s book, Bomba Bebé, on Friday from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

A small schedule change will be made this year. The Pedal Pull has been moved to Saturday instead of Friday.

“A favorite part [of Sauerkraut Days] is walking around and seeing all the little kids smiling,” Diestsch said. “Our schedule is set up to try and have something for the younger kids up until 5 p.m. Saturday. We’ll go right from the parade to the Pedal Pull, then right to bathtub races.”

The festival could not happen without the many volunteers that help with its setup, tear down, and running. Dietsch said there are about 16-18 volunteers active with the committee and another 20-30 that take care of running events.

“It’s fun to work with people that enjoy volunteering,” Dietsch said.

Kraut Route 5K Run/Walk

The Kraut Route 5K Run/Walk will be Saturday, Aug. 17. Race day registration is $20, and registration can be made online ahead of the event at sauerkrautdays.com.

The race begins at 8 a.m., with competitive walk and run. Place winners are awarded in all age divisions.

The race begins and ends at Lisbon City Park.

FULL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Wednesday Aug. 14

9 p.m. - Outdoor Family Movie: IF City Park

Thursday Aug. 15

6:30-8:30 p.m.

- Free Ice Cream Social City Park

• Celebrate Community City Park

• Dusk Fireworks City Park

9-11 p.m. Teen Dance Main Street

Friday, Aug. 16

10 a.m. - Children’s Storytime and Q&A with Author Zelle Crawford: Bomba Bebé Lincoln Park Gazebo

1-4 p.m. - Golf Outing Kernoustie Golf Club

5 p.m. - Serving of Edgewood Locker Brats

+ Free Frank’s Kraut Kraut Tent

• Food and Vendors Open Main Street

• Carnival Rides Open Main Street

• Historical Displays Lisbon History Center

5:15 p.m. - Lora Light Memorial Parade 2024 Grand Marshall Announced, Kraut Stage

5:30 p.m. - Crowning of Sauerkraut King and Queen, Kraut Stage

6 p.m. - Lisbon Alumni Association Hall of Fame

Inductees Announced, Kraut Stage

6:15 p.m. - Studio 30 Dance Performance, Kraut Stage 6:45 p.m. - Lisbon Wrestling and Cheerleader Labor Auction, Kraut Stage Area

to repair the items.

“They can come in, take it apart and see how it works,” Gary said. “Then we can see what we can do to repair it. Then they can go home and feel like they accomplished something.”

in and do things, rather than just the art material shop,”

Nina said.

Where one business closes, another opens.

Nina Scott closed The Fantastic Escape, the escape room on Main Street in Lisbon, earlier this year. With the closure, she owned an empty building. As someone who is passionate about art and helping out the community, Nina Scott had an idea. She wanted to create a shop where people could trade in their partially used arts and crafts tools for cash or store credit and a place where people could buy the partially used tools at a discounted price. Enter stART.

Other spaces in the shop will also be reutilized. One section in the back is a fix-it cafe and another is a community area that will act as an area for classes and kids to come in to work and learn about art.

“I want to have it be a place that is open in the evenings for a community draw for people to actually come

The shop opened for the first time on Aug. 1. The hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. As well as, Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon and by appointment. As the business gets its feet under their legs, Nina hopes to get to the point where she can be open for longer on Saturdays and further into the evenings on weekdays. Nina wants it to be a place where kids can go after school.

Nina plans on creating grab bags that people can buy instead of each individual material or tool. She wants to create the bags to make the vast amount of materials seem less overwhelming to some customers.

Nina’s husband, Gary Scott, will be running the fix-it cafe part of the shop. People are encouraged to bring in broken electrical items, like toasters, fans and toys. Gary will help them fix the item, with the goal being teaching the customers how

Gary has lots of experience fixing items drawing on his years as an electrical and mechanical engineer. He has always liked to understand how and why things work and how to fix them when they break. He wants to pass that on to other people in the community.

The goal of the shop is to be an outlet for the community to create art and fix items. Nina said, “Service in the community is really the number one goal in life.”

7-11 p.m. - Bingo American Legion Building

9 p.m. to midnight - Street Dance with Trophy Dads, Kraut Stage

Saturday, Aug. 17

8 a.m. - Kraut Route 5K City Park

9 a.m. - Sand Volleyball, Beau Dylans 6 person, coed teams. Pre-registration required through Beau Dylans

9:30 a.m. - Parade Lineup, North Washington Street

10:30 a.m. - Lora Light Memorial Parade *No water or water balloons*

11 a.m. - Serving of Edgewood Locker Brats

+ Free Frank’s Kraut, Kraut Tent

• Food and Vendors Open, Main Street

• Carnival Rides Open, Main Street

• Cabbage Head Car Show, East Main Street, No registration required; no line up before 9 a.m.

• Bags Tournament, Kraut Stage Area, Registration Required

• Live Music by Arch & The Outlaws, Kraut Tent

• Cabbage Making Demonstration, Southeast Linn Community Center

• Historical Displays, Lisbon History Center

• Pedal Pull Registration, City Hall Parking Lot Download registration form

11:30 a.m. - Sanctioned Youth Tractor Pull (ages 4-11), City Hall Parking Lot

Noon-10 p.m. - Bingo, American Legion Building

1 p.m. - Live Music by Laurie Maher

2 p.m. - Bathtub Races, Registration Starting at 1 p.m., Fire Station

3 p.m. - Live Music by Matt Gogel, Kraut Tent

5 p.m. - Live Music by Terry McCauley, Kraut Tent

9 p.m. to midnight - Street Dance with Lonesome Road, Kraut Stage

The final portion of the shop is not quite open yet, as the couple has some remodeling of the front room to complete. The goal when it does open will be to bring Little Scratch Coffee and baked goods from White Tree to help support other

local businesses. Nina said, “It’s more of a draw to make people feel comfortable when they come in.”

Joel Kellar | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

Nina and Gary Scott are the owners of the shop stART. They have been working over the past few weeks to flip the former escape room into an arts and crafts shop and fix-it cafe.

they leave the setbacks and noise language as originally proposed for their protection.

Matt Resor, 423 Truman St, Lisbon, thanked the Board for taking the input and recommendations from the citizens of Linn County. He feels all of the changes and tweaks are common sense and all in the best interest of those that live and work in the area especially the labor. They have a ton of local people working with the solar projects. If and when these projects come to Linn County, they would like to continue that.

Mike Carberry, Iowa City and Bright Future Iowa, thanked the Board for the second consideration of the wind energy ordinance and thanked Nichols and his entire staff for their hard work. Good projects come from good policy and good policy comes through compromise. The Board and staff have listened to the public and come up with an ordinance

that is workable. When Carberry talks to developers, he talks about responsible solar and responsible wind to do projects that are responsible but also beneficial, so everyone wins. There’s a lot of money in projects and sometimes developers need to make less money by doing a better project. Linn County now has an ordinance that protects the landowners, non-participating landowners, the taxpayers, the ratepayers and everyone wins. Carberry thanked the Board again for their diligent and thoughtful work on this ordinance and looks forward to the third and final passage.

Motion by Rogers, seconded by Zumbach to approve Employment Change Roster (payroll authorizations) as follows: INFORMATON TECHNOLOGY

Tech Infrastructure Mgr Dominic Roberts

Termination/deceased 7/24/24

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT Intern Ben Schmidt

Termination/internship complete 8/9/24

COMMUNITY SERVICES Financial Mgmt Dir. Staci Meade

Termination/resignation 9/27/24

JUVENILE DETENTION Intern Sparkle Melton,

Revised termination date 6/16/24

VETERAN AFFAIRS

Intake Technician Kaleigh Gallagher End of probation8/28/24 55A $21.24–55B $22.28

ENGINEERING

Clerical Specialist Kelly Kelly

Termination/resignation 8/9/24

Moton by Rogers, seconded by Zumbach to enter into closed session pursuant to Iowa Code Section 21.5.1.j to discuss the purchase or sale of real estate.

VOTE: Zumbach – Aye, Running-Marquardt – Aye, Rogers – Aye

Motion by Zumbach, seconded by Rogers to go out of closed session.

VOTE: Zumbach – Aye, Running-Marquardt – Aye, Rogers – Aye

Adjournment at 10:57 a.m.

Respectfully submitted, JOEL D. MILLER, Linn County Auditor By: Amanda Hoy, Deputy Auditor APPROVED BY:

KIRSTEN RUNNING-MARQUARDT, Chairperson Board of Supervisors

Published in the Sun August 8, 2024.

Ceremonial renovation groundbreaking for Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum to be held during Hoover’s Hometown Days

The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, Hoover Presidential Foundation, and Herbert Hoover National Historic Site will have a Life Celebration for Herbert Hoover’s 150th birthday on Saturday, Aug. 10, starting at noon on the East Lawn of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum at 210 Parkside Drive in West Branch. This will be immediately followed by a ceremonial groundbreaking for the renovation of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum to start in early 2025. This will coincide with other activities as part of Hoover’s Hometown Days in West Branch, Iowa.

Pete Swisher, Superintendent of the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, will speak as part of the life celebration. Historical reenactors of Herbert and Lou Henry Hoover will hand out birthday cake made from the same recipe used for Hoover’s 80th birthday celebration in West Branch.

Following the Life Celebration, there will be the ceremonial groundbreaking for the renovation of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. Speakers include Iowa Lieutenant Governor Adam Gregg, President and CEO of the Hoover Presidential Foundation Mundi McCarty, Chairman of the Hoover Presidential Foundation Betsy Corridan, and

Director of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum Dr. Tom Schwartz.

The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum is one of 13 physical presidential libraries and museums that are part of the National Archives and Records Administration. It has also gone the longest without renovation or addition, with the last renovation in 1992. BRC Imagination Arts of Burbank, California oversees the concept design for the renovation with a goal of creating a more engaging museum for all. Shive Hattery of Iowa City will oversee the architectural and engineering aspects of the renovation and addition.

The project relies largely on donations, as 74% of the support for it is from Iowan individuals, foundations, and companies. This has been aided by the Hoover Tax Credit Bill, signed by Governor Kim Reynolds in 2021. This gives donors a 25% Iowa tax credit for their gifts through December 31, 2024, toward the project. The fundraising efforts have been overseen by the Hoover Presidential Foundation through the Timeless Values | Modern Experience campaign. You can learn more at timelessvaluescampaign.org.

For more information on Hoover’s Hometown Days and to see the schedule of events, visit www.hooverdays.org

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Stories of friendship highlight puppet show

Attendees of the puppet show “The Two Trees” got to share time with another special guest, when Jefferson White helped present a story to kick off the evening’s show. Jefferson and his wife, Casey, read the story “The Gift of Nothing” to tie into the Christmas in July theme for the story time.

After the story, the duo helped lead stretching exercises for all participants to take part in.

Amy White then presented her puppet show on “The Two Trees,” an original piece she was working on.

Afterwards, White asked for feedback for the story, as she noted it was a show she is still developing.

White, after the show, encouraged those in attendance to think of making their own puppet shows with items they may have around the house, like action figures or dolls as their puppets, focusing more on the story they want to tell.

She also answered technical details about her show, like how she made some of the props and backgrounds for her set.

Below: Attendees strike

above: Jefferson

and

Left: Big stretches to the sky to get some of that excess energy out ahead

Nathan Countryman

Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

nathan.countryman@mvlsun.com

Photos by Nathan Countryman | Mount Vernon-Lisbon Sun

Above: Amy White leads off the puppet show for “The Two Trees” at Lisbon story time Tuesday, July 30.

a pose for the story that Casey is telling at the family story time event.

Left

White,

his wife Casey, read “The Gift of Nothing” at Tuesday’s event at Lisbon Heritage Hall.

of the puppet show.