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Winter 2015

Stacy’s Sweetstuff

Bringing treats, baked goods to downtown Newton

Grace Harbour’s Terry Bradley Sharing passion for music through teaching, performing

Newton Christian Conference Center

Addition of new chapel, reception hall and cabins perfect for wedding ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners a product of the Newton Daily News

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Index 4 Entertainment Terry Bradley, Grace Harbour

7 Venue

Newton Christian Conference Center

9 Reception

Modern and popular wedding songs

10 Finance

Organizing finances for present and future

11 Bakery

Tasty treats from Stacy’s Sweetstuff

14 Photography

Factors to consider before selecting

This publication is a product of the Newton Daily News.

Dan Goetz publisher 641-792-3121 ext. 6510 Abigail Pelzer Editor 641-792-3121 ext. 6530 Kate Malott Niche Publications Editor 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 Jeff Holschuh Advertising Director 641-792-3121 ext. 6540

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Terry Bradley shares passion through teaching, performing

By Alex Olp Local classical and jazz musician Terry Bradley has been playing guitar since he was 5 years old and has passed that passion along to others his whole life.

Born in Newton in 1954, Bradley runs his music business Grace Harbour, which he runs from inside his home. He acts primarily as a personal music instructor but also enjoys performing. Bradley’s home studio has a bookshelf full of composition and his favorite guitars mounted on the walls.

“Even the color of the

walls we chose for this room is a relaxing, soft color,” Bradley said. “We want everything in here to be conducive to relaxing and learning. I just have a great time teaching and I am so fortunate to be doing this. I’m a lucky guy.”

While Bradley conducts his music, teaching reminds him of the joy he had when he was a kid learning an instrument.

“The greatest thrill I have is seeing a kid’s eyes light up when they get it.

It’s just exciting,” Bradley said. “I remember when I started playing; you couldn’t get the thing out of my hands. Music is such a wonderful thing to

share, and I’m very privileged to be doing this.”

Bradley began teaching at the age 12. Advanced for his age, his music instructor organized lessons for other kids so Bradley could help them with an instrument.

“When you’re that young, it’s hard to build credibility,” he said. “I taught students that my instructor wanted me to work with, so it was an actual job with a schedule and time. It was official and I liked it.”

Bradley said he could sit in his room for hours, retreat from the world and just play guitar. That attitude has stuck with

him his whole life and it is represented in his business today. “[Grace Harbour] is kind of indicative of the spirit of what we are trying to do,” Bradley said.

“Music is like a sanctuary. It is a great antidote for the goofiness of what goes on in the world today.”

Grace Harbour is singly owned by Bradley as he started teaching full-time in 2006, but a portion of Bradley’s job is also performing. Weddings, private parties, providing background music and dinner music are all services Bradley offers.

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BRADLEY continued from 4

While performing his work in public, Bradley often has a set of pieces he plays while also accommodating his listeners’ wishes and improvising a bit, he said.

Even though Bradley typically performs alone, he has played with many individuals during his career. Twelve years ago he met Brian Keeton, pastor of Cornerstone Bible Fellowship in Newton. Keeton said he values the time that he gets to spend with Bradley.

“He’s a great musician,” Keeton said.

“He was and is a better guitar player than myself and you couldn’t have asked for a better mentor. He makes me better just by playing with someone of that caliber. Even though he can play virtually anything, he is always very humble.”

Bradley performed on the big stage plenty of times in his career. He played for the Grinnell College Orchestra, and in 1988 he began performing in the Des Moines Symphony.

“I was fortunate enough to spend 10

5

years playing at Des Moines,” Bradley said. “Man that was a blast. That was a lot of pressure, a lot of work and the demands were overwhelming, but it was fun.”

As much as he loves playing, his passion is sharing his joy for music with younger generations through teaching. That’s what he loves about Grace Harbour. However, maintaining a kid’s interest can sometimes be a challenge that comes with the job.

“It’s hard to get across to them that Eddie Van Halen wasn’t Eddie Van Halen when he first started,” he said. “It took him years to get to where he was, and it’s going to take them years to get to that point. We live in such an instant gratification society that it doesn’t happen in six weeks. It’s phenomenally hard and it takes a lot of dedication.”

Bradley has proven his dedication with his lifetime commitment to music and his passion as a music instructor at Grace Harbour — a passion born 55 years ago that has not let up.

Contact Alex Olp at aolp@newtondailynews.com.

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There are various theories as to the origin of the word “honeymoon.”

One such theory suggests the word traces its origins to the Old English phrase “hony moone,” which suggests the honeymoon was initially steeped in cynicism.

“Hony” is a reference to honey and, the theory suggests, refers to the strong feelings of affection and sweetness newly married couples harbor and display for each other. However, “moone” is a reference to how fleeting this period of

time is and how it is likely to change as quickly as the moon changes.

One rosier theory as to the origin of the word “honeymoon” suggests the word dates back to the fifth century, when calendars were based on the moon cycle. During

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this period, newly married couples drank mead (which accounts for the “honey”) throughout their first month of marriage (or for a full cycle of the moon), as mead was a beverage many believed to be an aphrodisiac.

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Newton Christian Conference Center adds new building available for weddings, more

By Jason W. Brooks Couples who get married at the Christian Conference Center this summer will have the same opportunity to take their vows in the same picturesque, natural outdoor setting that’s always been there.

This year, they’ll have a state-ofthe-art, cabin-like building available as well.

Construction crews are closing in on completing a new 69,000-square foot College Avenue Worship Center that will house a wedding chapel, dressing rooms, a large foyer, a reception hall and a kitchen.

The center, owned and operated by the The Christian Church in the Upper Midwest, is open for rent to

all types of groups, in addition to many types of ceremonies, retreats and other events.

“The facility exists because of the summer camp,” said Bill Spangler-Dunning, regional minister and president. “But the buildings and the land are part of the community.”

The center, 5604 Lincoln St. in Newton, is a few miles southeast of the Iowa Speedway. It has been home to church camps for many years, and weddings aren’t new either. The swimming pool, playground and acres and acres of rolling prairie along Elk Creek feature ponds and other examples of nature at its finest.

However, the center is working toward becoming a more all-

weather facility. The center already had a large front room and dining room in its main building, and even the enclosed back porch to the building was used for a small December wedding.

The center added two 24-bed cabins and a 36-bed cabin within the past couple of years, adding not only tons of places for overnight guests, but also a tornadoshelter area.

Completion of the College Avenue building, slated to happen by mid-May, will help make the center a destination for events — all 12 months of the year.

The building is named after Des Moines’ College Avenue Christian CENTER | 13

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Popular, modern first dance songs

Newton Daily News A couple’s first dance as man and wife is a cherished wedding tradition.

While the first dance can help set a positive tone for the reception, it also can negatively impact the festivities if a poor song is chosen.

Couples may feel pressure to choose the perfect song. Yes, this is a song the couple has selected to represent their love for each other, but it also should be one that will speak to the masses and can be thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Couples want to avoid a song that does not seem to fit with the festivities. For those couples who need a little musical inspiration, turn to many of the modern hits you’re bound to hear on the radio, which may help you to shine in that first dance.

“A Thousand Years”

by Christina Perri

“Twi-hard” fans enjoyed this romantic song during the pivotal wedding scene between Bella Swan and Edward Cullen in the popular “Twilight” movie “Breaking Dawn.” Couples looking to recreate the magic of these star-crossed lovers can embrace Perri’s delicate tone and tender lyrics.

“I Don’t Dance”

by Lee Brice

Speaking of country influences, couples who want a little twang in their first dances can choose Brice’s breakthrough hit. Romantic lyrics about spinning his partner around in circles despite not liking to dance illustrates what one partner will do for the other when in love.

“All of Me”

by John Legend

It’s been hard to escape this popular love song by R&B artist John Legend.

An ode Legend wrote to his wife, this song has quickly become a popular choice for a couple’s first dance.

80 percent

75 percent of couples live together prior to tying the knot, a living arrangement that once was a societal taboo.

of brides took their new husband’s last name in 2013, a significant dip from 86 percent in 2009.

“I Won’t Give Up”

by Jason Mraz

Another acoustic ditty, this song has a country influence and talks about not giving up and staying in a relationship for the long haul.

“Better Together”

by Jack Johnson

Johnson is known primarily for his soft rock and acoustic guitar work blended with catchy lyrics. Also an accomplished surfer, Johnson’s work is enjoyed by many but may be especially prized by couples who want to their reception to be a laid back affair full of fun and whimsy.

“I Choose You”

by Sara Bareilles

This peppy song by singer/songwriter Sara Bareilles is a good choice for couples who prefer being nontraditional. It’s faster paced and less sentimental than many other wedding songs. Couples can make that first moment on the dance floor a special experience by choosing modern classics for their first dances.

1 out of 3 couples are not marrying in religious institutions in 2013, marking an 8 percent decrease from 2009.

Source: 2013 Real Weddings Study, a comprehensive report of 13,000 brides and grooms married in the U.S. surveyed from TheKnot.com.

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How newlyweds can successfully blend finances Newton Daily News Planning a wedding is a collaborative effort for couples. Although couples spend months choosing everything from wedding bands to registry china patterns, even more decisions are on the horizon. These include decisions on housing, when to start a family and how to merge bank accounts, bills and investments that comprise their financial portfolios.

Many couples discuss finances before they tie the knot. Establishing a financial plan will shed light on how much you can afford to spend on your wedding. Consider these ways to merge newlywed finances.

Be forthcoming with information — It may be embarrassing to have a low credit score or substantial amount of debt. But it’s still best to share this information sooner rather than later. Openness with regard to finances allows couples to work collectively to improve their financial

standing. ties equally, while others realize one Begin slowly — After so many person is better suited to managing years of financial self-sufficiency, money. Whatever your decision, it some newlyweds find it difficult to should be mutual. Financial conflicts blend finances. Couples with vastly are one of the biggest contributors to different salaries may struggle to de- marital dissatisfaction. If one person termine equitable contributions to is the primary account manager, the joint accounts, so it can pay to take other spouse should have open acthings slowly. For example, open a cess to bank accounts, credit cards joint account shortly after tying the and passwords. knot, using the account to pay for Kids change everything — Plans home and living expenses. may need to be revised as children Create a savings plan — Budgets enter the equation. Separate acthat worked before you got married counts may have worked in the past, likely won’t be realistic now that you but usually it makes more financial have tied the knot. Expenses and/or sense, especially come tax time, to income may have increased, so ex- completely merge accounts when amine your finances to get an honest children are in the picture. It may assessment of your finances. Once a also be time to think about life insurclear of how much money is coming ance and disability insurance. Both in and going out picture is presented, husband and wife should each write you and your spouse can begin to a will once children are born. map out your short- and long-term Communication is the most imfinancial plans. portant thing when newly married Establish a family LODGE CFO — Many couplesNEWTON begin to merge their financAMERICINN & SUITES® couples opt to split responsibili- es.

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Stacy’s Sweetstuff brings treats to downtown

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By Jamee A. Pierson Stacy Grams began baking at home with her grandma — after many cakes and cookies later, and a successful in-home business — she is taking the leap and opening her own shop, Stacy’s Sweetstuff.

Located behind Moo’s BBQ at 208 1/2 First Ave. W., Grams is now hoping to share her treats with community on a daily basis.

Stacy’s Sweetstuff started in Grams’ home after she began baking for her nieces, nephews, family and friends more than four years ago. She bakes cookies, cakes, cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, brownies, cake balls, candies, fudge and truffles. Sugar cookies are her favorite because she enjoys decorating them, although she is not a huge fan of cleaning up after them. They are also her most popular item.

Wedding cakes are also on her resume — available in chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, lemon, orange, marble, champaign and red velvet flavors.

When doing wedding cake tasting, Grams sends home cupcake samples with the client so their friends and family can give their input as well.

It is also a trick she does to get her product out to more people, hopefully gaining additional clients.

“Before you know it was like ‘hey can you make one for my friend’s mom’s sister,’” Grams said.

A fun story Grams has about her growing busi-

ness started with the purchase of her car.

“I bought my car here in town from Noble AllAmerican, and he asked why my hands were all purple — I had just done a wedding cake. We got to talking and he ordered some cookies from me, took it back to the shop and then I had two of those guys order from me. One of the guy’s wife works at an Altoona bank and the bank contacted me for Christmas cookies for three Altoona branches,” Grams said.

Many of her friends and family suggested that she move forward in her business and do more with the skills she has. After spending time praying and looking around Newton for a potential store front, she spoke with the owner of Moo’s and things “just fell together,” she said.

Grams had been making cakes for Moo’s BBQ owner Jeremy Biondi and after finding out she was looking for a space, Biondi offered her the back room in his restaurant.

The quaint space is perfect for Grams, who didn’t want anything extravagant. In the shop she will offer cupcakes, chocolate dipped strawberries, cake balls, slices of pie, sugar cookies, chocolate covered pretzels, fudge along with daily specials. She is planning on opening Feb. 9.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at jpierson@newtondailynews.com

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• Engagement and wedding rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it was once thought that a vein in that finger led directly to the heart.

• 70 percent of all brides sport the traditional diamond on the fourth finger of their left hand.

• Diamonds set in gold or silver became popular as betrothal rings among wealthy Venetians toward the end of the fifteenth century.

• Seventeen tons of gold are made into wedding rings each year in the United States.

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Source: 2013 Real Weddings Survey, a comprehensive report of 13,000 brides and grooms married in 2013 in the U.S. surveyed from TheKnot.com.

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CENTER Continued from 7 Church — one of the primary benefactors of the facility. The reception hall, known as Bright Hall, is named for the late Lois Bright, who, along with her husband, H. Dale, took up many charity causes and formed two foundations.

The new chapel itself is named for another large benefactor: The Grant Park Christian Church. Sidewalks will link the cabins to the College Avenue Hall.

The hall is somewhat the size of a small basketball gymnasium, as it’s 80 feet long and 52 feet wide.

It has cabin-like wood paneling on the ceiling, and the kitchen has a serving-counter window. Large storage rooms are also built-in.

All of the facilities will be handicapped-accessible, Spangler-Dunning said.

The rates are posted on the center’s website, www.uppermidwestcc.org. Couples can not only rent one or more of the indoor facilities, but there are many outdoor locations available on the property.

Some of the adults who’ve chosen to use the site for their weddings attended the center years ago for summer camp, and have a strong attachment to the hideaway. Amber Elliott, who grew up in the Okoboji Lake area, is in that group — her summer camps and her wedding were both at the Newton site, and she’s now the wedding coordinator at the center.

Submitted Photos

“We have a lot of flexibility here,” Elliott said. “We know couples are planning months and months in advance. Some discuss planning for an outdoor wedding and reception, and now, a large, new indoor building will be available as a backup plan.”

Summer church camps will still be held on site. Camps are generally Sunday through Friday, freeing up facilities for weekend events.

The framing and walls were completed by early January.

Elliott said crews have plenty of incentive to finish the building by May, as weddings have already been booked at the facility.

Spangler-Dunning said the center doesn’t build until it has saved

enough money to do so, and has no construction debt as a result.

Center director Connie Derby Dicks said the building fills a need for the church’s four-state region, which covers Iowa, Minnesota and North and South Dakota. It also helps give Jasper County a unique, out of the way site for one and multi-day events.

“It’s what our congregation wants,” Derby Dicks said. “And it’s an affordable facility in a rural space.”

The center can be reached at 515-255-3168 or christianconferencecenter@gmail.com.

Contact Jason W. Brooks at jbrooks@newtondailynews.com.

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Wedding photography factors to consider

Newton Daily News Couples must make a host of important decisions when planning their weddings. Some decisions, such as choosing a venue to host the reception, require more effort and research on the part of couples than others.

One decision couples must make carefully concerns the photography package they choose for their ceremonies and receptions. Wedding photographers play a big role on a couple’s big day, and it’s important that couples about to tie the knot consider a host of factors before choosing the men or women they will ultimately task with visually documenting their wedding day.

Engagement photoshoot Couples who want to do an engagement photoshoot may want to negotiate such a shoot into their photography package. Some agencies include engagement shoots in their packages while others do not.

If the engagement photoshoot is on your list of needs, then look for an agency that provides such services as part of its packages or agencies willing to include the engagement photoshoot for free or for an added fee.

Party size The number of people on the guest list should factor into your choice of wedding photographer. If your guest list is especially large, then you might want to consider hiring two or more photographers to document the day.

Many agencies offer separate packages for couples who want one photographer and couples who prefer two or more photographers, so it pays to examine the price differences between such packages to see if more than one photographer can fit into your budget.

Couples with relatively small guest lists can typically get by with just a single photographer to document their ceremonies and receptions.

Travel When discussing a wedding photography package, ask how much travel is included in the package.

This is important for couples whose ceremonies are in a separate locations from their receptions. If the distance between the ceremony site and the reception venue is considerable, you may have to pay extra for the photographer to travel between both sites.

While a reasonable amount of travel is typically included in a photography package, it’s best that you confirm this prior to signing an agreement.

Videography Many photography agencies also offer videography services in some of their wedding packages.

Videography can be a great way for couples to document their wedding days, and it can be fun for couples to watch their wedding videos with their families down the road.

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16

The Christian Conference Center Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Sites 

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New indoor chapel and outdoor ceremony

locations; chapels, fields, forests & new pergola 

Dressing rooms for wedding party

Reception & Catering 

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Round and rectangle guest tables, black & white linens available

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Guest Lodging  

Motel-style rooms with 2 queen beds Family & dorm style cabins

Call to schedule a tour!

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