By Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher
Posted 5/11/21

I have learned much in the past year about the many good things that many good people are doing at Lake Panorama and throughout Guthrie County. We are often reminded — sometimes abruptly — of what living is really all about. Baseball star Jackie Robinson may have summed it up best when he said, “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.”
I experienced this “impact” recently when I joined the Ten Squared Plus Men and saw firsthand how donations from 150 local men can, and do, make a significant impact. The concept is quite simple. The group meets three times per year, and the members write a $100 check each time. Although $100 may not sound like much, multiplied by 150 members at three times per year, the total is $45,000. We heard presentations from three organizations that are making a positive impact on Guthrie County and could do even more with additional funding. We also heard from three organizations that shared how they recently benefited from this funding.
The entire evening was casual, fun and, most importantly, heartwarming.  I saw several familiar faces and met some new friends as well. I want to thank John Rutledge for inviting me to join the group. John has yet to steer me wrong, so when he tells me I should do something, I do it.
I also want to thank Barry Monaghan, who leads this group and keeps it on task, for seeking me out and making me feel welcome. He is clearly the driving force behind this.
The group had a tough decision to make, but each member cast his vote. The top choice was the Panora Avenue of Flags. Look for more details on the check presentation and how the funds will be used in a future issue of Lake Panorama Times.
The next Ten Squared Plus Men meeting will be in August. If you are interested in joining us, please reach out to me or any member, as we would welcome you as a guest.
In this great big world, sometimes you may wonder if you can really make a difference. That’s a fair question, and the short answer is absolutely. As British businesswoman Anita Roddick said, “If you think you’re too small to have an impact, try going to bed with a mosquito.”
Thanks for reading. 

By Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher
Posted 4/16/21

Ever wish you could predict the weather? I do. It would make editorial planning for monthly publications like this one a lot easier. For example, publishing stories on snowmobiling and snow hiking seemed liked a  good idea for our March issue when we talked about them in February. We certainly were not anticipating 70 degree days in March, like it was when last month’s issue mailed to homes. Meanwhile, as I write this column on March 31, temperatures are below freezing again. It’s Iowa, right?

Years ago, I managed a weekly newspaper in Grimes that was delivered to homes on Thursdays. We would publish the weekend weather forecast on the front page. I assigned this task to a young reporter and provided him with sources on where to collect the forecast data. This was at a time when we didn’t have weather apps at our fingertips or personal digital assistants to tell us if it was going to rain or not.

After a few weeks of publishing this weekend forecast, I received a call from a reader who asked where we were getting our data, pointing out that we were nowhere close on the forecasted highs and lows. “You were off 20 degrees last week,” he shared.

So when I went back to this “reporter” and asked where he was collecting the data from, he told me, “I make it up. I can do it as well as those dopes on TV.” I then quickly pointed out how those “dopes on TV” had it correct last week and that he was 20 degrees off. And, of course, I pointed out that I didn’t hire him to predict the weather forecast.

Meanwhile, the caller who shared this all with me called back and thanked me for listening and responding, and I thanked him for pointing out the problem. I then learned that he worked for Freese-Notis, a weather forecasting corporation headquartered in Des Moines. He offered to provide the forecast to me, faxing (yes, faxing) me the data each week before press time.

Years went by, and that young reporter caused many additional problems, ultimately ending in an ugly split. Yes, I should have seen that one coming. Our family also moved to a different home about that same time, and I learned that the helpful caller from years prior was now my backyard neighbor. Although we don’t publish weather forecasts in monthly publications for obvious reasons, I can’t help but wonder if he could have predicted the unusually warm weather we had in early March. Oh, well. In the meantime, you better keep those snowmobiles and snow hiking gear ready — just in case. 

Posted 4/6/21
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

You might say “there’s a new sheriff in town.” But in this case, the Lake Panorama Association has a new security chief. Jerry Armstrong, who held that position since October 2016, retired March 26. The new LPA security chief is Corey Larsen.

“Jerry’s retirement is bittersweet,” says John Rutledge, LPA general manager. “Jerry has provided consistent and steady leadership to the LPA security department, which the LPA staff, membership and board greatly respect. He’s always a positive and encouraging person who will be dearly missed. But I know Jerry is looking forward to playing lots of golf and enjoying his well-deserved retirement.

“I am pleased to welcome Corey to our LPA management team,” says Rutledge. “Corey’s professional experience and personal demeanor make him the perfect fit for the position of LPA security supervisor. I could not have asked for a smoother transition from Jerry and Corey, and I believe Corey is positioned to be very successful in his new role.”

Armstrong was born and raised in the Panora area. In 1969, he was Lake Panorama’s first security officer for one year and still carries the badge he was issued in his wallet. Soon he began selling Lake Panorama lots.

Then he took a position as national sales manager for Harper Brush in Fairfield. That led to 22 years visiting 165 distributors throughout the country during the week and returning to his wife Nancy and their two children in Panora each weekend. The couple now has six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

When Armstrong retired from Harper Brush, he agreed to work part-time for LPA security. That soon turned into a full-time position covering the night shift, which he did for 10 years, before stepping into the LPA security chief role. Now after nearly 14 years, he’s decided to retire from full-time work. The good news is he will continue to work part-time in the security department.

“I’m 77 years old and have been thinking about retirement since last fall,” Armstrong says. “But in the past 14-plus years, I’ve never thought I didn’t want to go to work that day. Lake Panorama is a wonderful community, filled with good people who have become my friends.”

Larsen has been on the LPA staff in a part-time capacity since 2018, working both days and nights, and on both land and water. He has served as a law enforcement officer for 27 years.

Larsen’s father was a police officer for 30 years.

“Growing up in a law enforcement family, I just always knew this is what I wanted to do,” he says.

Larsen was raised in the Atlantic area, graduating from Anita High School. He enlisted in the Air Force, where he served four-and-a-half years. He returned to southwest Iowa and was hired as the Fontanelle police chief in the spring of 1997. Next came a stint in the Greenfield police department, before joining the Audubon County Sheriff’s department in 2001. He moved to the Cass County Sheriff’s office as a deputy in 2009, and recently retired from there.

He and his wife Jessica have two daughters, Faith and Gracelyn. Jessica teaches third grade in the Atlantic school system, and the family lives in Atlantic. In 2016, they purchased a condo at Lake Panorama and began spending much of their summers here, golfing and boating. This past winter, they sold that first condo and purchased a larger one.

“We love the lake,” Larsen says. “Jessica and I talked for several years about making this our retirement home. Owning our first condo here made me realize it would be a great place to work, too, so I took the part-time position. When Jerry started to talk about retiring, I told him I’d be interested in the security chief position.”

Armstrong says his successor has the right personality for the job.

“He’s a good guy,” Armstrong says. “He has 27 years of experience in law enforcement, and knows how to relate to people. He is a homeowner here and will fit right into the community.”

In retirement, Armstrong plans to enjoy more golf, which will include playing in three men’s golf leagues — Wednesday at Lake Panorama National, Tuesday and Thursday at Panorama West. He’s also looking forward to more fishing and time with his great-grandchildren. A retirement event for Armstrong will be planned later in the year, when concerns about large gatherings due to COVID-19 ease.

Nancy Armstrong works part-time at the LPN conference center front desk and doesn’t have any plans to retire in the near future. Jerry gives Nancy credit for making his work in LPA security possible.

“Sometimes the schedule can get crazy, and you have to have a supportive spouse,” he says. “Nancy has always been there for me.”

The Larsens will remain in Atlantic until their girls graduate from school, while also enjoying what Corey calls their “home away from home” at Lake Panorama. “Eventually we will move to Lake Panorama full-time,” he says.

The Lake Panorama Association Security Department is a 24/7 operation, providing many valuable services to the LPA community on both land and water. The security chief is a full-time position. The other full-time employee is Randall Rogers, who works the night shift. On both the day and night shifts, there are 27 checkpoints the officers visit twice during each shift.

Another dozen people work part-time shifts, with more in the summer and fewer in the off-season. Three patrol boats are used during the summer months to monitor lake activity.

Larsen says he welcomes interest from qualified individuals who would like to be considered for a part-time role in the security department, especially for water patrol.

Both Armstrong and Larsen say LPA is lucky to have good support from the Guthrie County Sheriff’s office, the Panora Police department, and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

“We don’t have arrest powers,” Larsen says. “But we can write tickets and assess fines if needed. My goal is to make sure Lake Panorama members and guests are safe, and doing what they’re supposed to be doing. Safety is always top of mind for me and the other security officers.”

The Security Department phone number is 641-757-9035 and is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

PHOTO: Jerry Armstrong, on the right, retired March 26 after working full-time for the LPA security department the past 14 years. His replacement as LPA security department supervisor is Corey Larsen. Armstrong and Larsen are shown with one of the familiar Lake Panorama security department trucks.

Posted 4/6/21
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

Entering his third month on the job as LPN’s head golf professional, Rob Riggins is making good on his promise to grow the game of golf at Lake Panorama through clinics and lessons.

“Everyone learns differently,” Riggins says. “Some people like to get technical and understand every movement of the swing, while others don’t want to be overwhelmed with technique. I work to find a happy medium and give each player a unique learning experience.” Riggins says he also emphasizes teaching how to “play golf”— not just how to swing a club.

The cost of a 45-minute private lesson for adults is $60. Riggins is offering a special price of $90 for those who purchase a package of three private lessons by May 31.

Because Riggins says some players prefer a group setting, this spring he is offering two, three-day clinics, one for women only and one for beginners. The women’s clinic dates are April 17, April 24 and May 1. These are all Saturdays, with the one-hour sessions beginning at 2 p.m.

The clinic for beginners also is on Saturdays at 2 p.m. The dates for this clinic, which will cover the fundamentals of golf, are May 15, May 22 and May 29. Both clinics will be held at Lake Panorama National and cost $60 per person. 

Turning to junior golfers, Riggins is continuing the summer junior golf school that has been a fixture at Lake Panorama National for more than 20 years. There are two sessions to choose from, with one hour of instruction beginning at 10 a.m. every Wednesday in either June or July. The cost is $55 for these junior golf instruction group sessions, which are open to juniors ages 5-16. Riggins also offers private 30-minute lessons for junior golfers at $20.

To sign up for either of the spring clinics or the junior golf sessions, call the LPN pro shop at 641-755-2024. Payment must be made by the time the first session begins for each clinic. To get the private lesson package at the reduced rate of $90, call the pro shop no later than April 30 and finalize the purchase before scheduling your first lesson. The private lesson package can be used anytime this year.

More details are available at www.lakepanoramanational.com/instruction.

Posted 4/6/21

Trish Hart was featured in a story in the March edition of Lake Panorama Times along with vibrant photos she has taken of Lake Panorama wildlife. Response to that feature led us to ask Hart if she’d provide a monthly nature photo for this publication, and she heartily agreed.

Many of Hart’s photos are of birds, which she captures digitally as they sit on feeders on the deck of her home or in nearby trees. This month’s photo is a male American Robin, perched in a tree, enjoying some winter berries.

According to the Audubon Society, robins winter as far north as Canada. With the breakup of flocks prior to the nesting season, when we here in Iowa see our “first robin of spring,” it may be a bird that has wintered only a few miles away, not one that just arrived from southern climates.

Hart launched “Nature’s Canvas Photography” on Facebook in January 2021, offering custom prints of her photos on canvas, paper, metal and glass. Visit NaturesCanvasPhotos on Facebook.

Posted 4/6/21
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

Lane Rumelhart is in his second year as project manager for the Lake Panorama Association. He graduated from Central College in Pella in May 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in environmental science and minors in biology and business management.

As LPA project manager, Rumelhart is responsible for managing the LPA building codes. He also has taken over management of some projects financed by the Lake Panorama Rural Improvement Zone (RIZ) and assists with LPA communications, the annual deer hunt program, and campground and beach management. In this month’s Q&A, Rumelhart highlights the LPA building codes, plus talks about some upcoming 2021 projects.

Q. How many building permits were issued by the LPA in 2020?
A. In 2020, LPA issued 93 building permits and 70 land disturbing permits. Twenty-six of the building permits were new homes. I am starting to see a trend of members demolishing old homes and building new homes over the existing areas. Members are limited by the size of the lot and the septic field required for the home. More and more lots are maximizing septic and lateral field areas for homes. I work closely with the Guthrie County Sanitarian, Mike Stringham, to ensure all homes have the required space for their lateral field.

Q. What projects require a building permit or land disturbing permit?
A. New homes, additions, garages (both attached and detached), storage sheds, decks, gazebos, fences, swimming pools, permanent docks, shoreline shelters and any other structure that would require adequate footings to be built all require building permits. Remodel projects inside the home, redoing a roof, or anything that doesn’t change the footprint of the home or structure does not need a permit.

Any kind of excavation that is closer than 100 feet to the lake or disturbs more than 1,000 square feet of land requires a land disturbing permit. If a homeowner wants to pave an existing driveway, they don’t need a land disturbing permit. But if a member is creating a new type of walkway or driveway, a permit would be required. Lot clearing, basement repairs, and most new landscaping projects require a land disturbing permit.

Bottom line – if you have questions whether you need a permit for a planned project, it’s always best to call me and ask. When in doubt, give LPA a shout.

Q. For those who want to do their own research, how can people view or get a copy of the LPA building codes?
A. We have all the necessary forms on the LPA website — lakepanorama.org. We have a direct link to the codes on the main page. I also can email the codes. Send requests to lrumelhart@lakepanorama.org. During these COVID times, members also can schedule a time to stop by the office and pick up a copy of the codes, rules and regulations, etc. by calling 641-755-2301.

Q. What is the process members should follow if they are thinking about building something?
A. The process is a bit different for each project and depends on both the nature of the project and the permit applicant’s level of preparedness. The first step should always be to contact me. I will get members and contractors all the necessary information on what I need to be able to approve a permit.

Between the months of March and October, members should expect a longer wait time. If a member and/or contractor has everything in order, we can process larger permit requests (homes, additions, garages) in seven to 10 days. Smaller projects usually take three to five days. Once I have everything I need, it doesn’t take long to check lot stakes and a few other things to get members approved. The key to a smooth permit process is working well ahead of your planned construction schedule to ensure all paperwork is completed in advance.

Q. What are the responsibilities of the volunteer building codes committee?
A. The Building Codes Committee (BCC) has an important job. Their two main functions are to recommend any updates to the LPA building codes and to hear variance requests from members. The main goal of the committee is to uphold LPA’s aesthetic integrity and protect the quality of the environment around the lake.

I do my best to give the committee a clear interpretation of the LPA codes and rules along with a description of each member’s request for a variance. The committee members decide which variances to recommend to the LPA Board of Directors for granting. The BCC meets the second Monday of every month at 6 p.m. to review member requests.

The committee needs a specific reason to grant a variance. For example, the LPA Building Codes state homes shall be built with a roof pitch that is 6/12 or steeper. Lately, many home designs have incorporated a more “modern” look with a shallower pitch, like a 4/12 pitch. These homes are still designed with acceptable aesthetics to LPA. The committee has approved many requests for a shallower roof pitch. If the BCC does not grant a request, the group does their best to offer alternative options that would be acceptable to LPA.

This committee also offers sound advice on changes made to the building codes and permit forms. Last year, I worked with the members to add language to our codes about renewable energy sources being added to homes. As times change, necessary adjustments are made to keep new ideas in line with LPA’s goals. The Building Codes Committee is a great starting point for these modifications.

Q. Last year you guided work on a water safety survey. Has anything happened because of that?
A. The survey showed LPA needed to emphasize two key areas leading into 2021 — buoy readability and water security. I worked with Jerry Armstrong, who has been the LPA security chief the last four years and recently retired, to tackle buoy readability. We ordered new stickers for all buoys that had Hazard, Dam, Keep Right, No Boats, and Ski Area verbiage.

These new stickers now have the wording placed at the top of the buoy. The old verbiage had half of the phrase on top, and the other half below the symbol. This was an issue as summer progressed because algae and other scum would accumulate on these words and make the language unreadable. These stickers are vinyl wraps that have been wrapped around the top of all the older buoys.

LPA also took a hard look at which buoys caused most concern from the membership. The “Slow No Wake” and “10 MPH” buoys were talked about quite often. LPA ordered all new “No Wake” and “10 MPH” buoys that are 20 inches taller than the previous buoys. The previous buoys were 60 inches tall, and these new ones are 80 inches tall. We also added two 80-inch buoys to replace the “Keep Right” buoys in the Narrows. We will be adding signage to these buoys regarding the towing restrictions in the Narrows on weekends and holidays.

Q. The Lake Panorama Rural Improvement Zone (RIZ) has been instrumental in the construction of three wetlands that help protect Lake Panorama from sediment. What are your responsibilities for the ongoing operation and management of these wetlands?
A. Helen’s Wetland was built in 2016 and is on the east side of Sage Trail, northeast of the LPA East Campground. Hughes Wetland was built in 2017 and is north of 200th street, north of the Fin and Feather building. The Smith Wetland was built in 2019 and is on the north side of 180th, north of Burchfield Cove.

Managing the wetlands is one of my favorite parts of this job. I adjust the pool levels according to the time of year. I try to get a higher pool elevation from March through October to catch more silt during the time period we are likely to receive rain. I lower the level in the winter months to put less stress on the grouted riprap by the wetland overflow structure.

I also look at the vegetation around each wetland to make sure native flora gets established. Right now I am trying to get a better establishment of native plants on the Smith Wetland, as it is our newest management area. It often takes three to five years for a wetland to get a healthy establishment.

We have plans to add a fourth wetland north of the Smith Wetland in the future. We have encountered some additional regulatory hoops to jump through for this project, so it has set our timeline back a bit. We still plan to get it accomplished.

LPA RIZ’s No. 1 goal with these wetlands is to stop silt from entering Lake Panorama. There are secondary benefits, too, such as the reduction of nitrogen and phosphorus in the water. These chemicals are part of the reason blue algae blooms occur in the summer. LPA has previously conducted some sampling of the wetlands to measure nitrogen reduction of the impoundment and had results consistent with other wetlands across Iowa.

Q. As LPA project manager, one of your responsibilities is to oversee and assist with new projects, often at Lake Panorama’s three beaches. What will be new in 2021?
A. Members will notice a new retaining wall at Boulder Beach this summer. Whether you are driving by on your boat or playing in the sand, you cannot miss this new addition. The old retaining wall was overgrown and started to fail. During the fall of 2020, LPA decided it was time for an upgrade. Now parents can easily sit behind the wall and see their children playing without being blocked by overgrown shrubs. We have discussed adding some benches behind the wall to make time at the beach more enjoyable. Some planters will be added later this spring to add some color to the area, while remaining easy to maintain.

Some projects I’m involved in are funded by donations to Friends of Lake Panorama. I helped coordinate the new playground installation at Shady Beach last fall and am doing the same thing now with the new playground at Boulder Beach, with installation planned in late April. As they did at Shady Beach, the LPA maintenance staff will handle the ground preparation by digging out the area for the equipment. Boland Recreation’s team then will install the pieces and LPA staff will come back to fill in the area with mulch. I’m also assisting with plans for three new memorial benches this spring.

Fundraising for a dog park continues through Friends and is just starting to take shape. I adjusted our agreement with the tenant on the LPA hay ground that will be used for the park. I have flagged the area so members can see the rough size and shape of the park and will be working to finalize construction estimates soon and hopefully break ground in August. The construction likely will be done in two phases. The first phase will include the fencing installation and turf establishment. More of the amenities like signage and water hookup will take place next spring.

Q. You’ve described your position as project manager as being a utility player in sports, meaning you handle a variety of things rather than specializing in just one thing. Were you a utility player in high school sports?
A. I played four sports all four years of high school — football, wrestling, golf and baseball. I stuck to just wrestling for four years at Central College. I now help coach wrestling at ACGC High School. When I’m not on the mat, I enjoy pursuing whitetails and helping my family manage our farms for better wildlife. I also have a close group of friends I enjoy spending time with. We usually get together to watch sports, golf or play yard games. I enjoy reading personal development books and am always taking recommendations for some new reading, so feel free to send your ideas my way!

Posted 3/9/21
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

Rob Riggins is the new head golf professional at Lake Panorama National Resort and has been on the job since early February. Riggins has extensive experience in various aspects of the golf industry and has a passion for growing the game of golf with both juniors and adults.

“I am excited to welcome Rob to Lake Panorama National,” says Royce Shaffer, LPN operations manager. “He brings years of experience to LPN. As he settles in, I believe Rob will create an experience that our membership will be proud of. His passion for teaching will grow the game, which ultimately will increase membership at Lake Panorama National and Panorama West.”

Riggins comes to LPN from the Des Moines Golf and Country Club, where he was a golf professional, tournament director and golf instructor for nearly three years.

He got his start in golf at a young age.

“I grew up in southern California in a town called Saugus, about 30 miles north of Los Angeles. My uncle would drag me to the course when I was a kid. He would just hand me a club and say ‘I’ll meet you at the green.’ I was hooked from the first moment,” Riggins says. “Other times my aunt would drop me off at the course on her way to work and pick me up on her way home. I would spend all day playing and practicing.”

While in California, Riggins was a tournament player for 10 years on multiple golf tours.

“I played a few professional golf tours over the years. For instance, the Asian Tour, Canadian Tour, a few Korn Ferry events and some professional mini tours in the U.S.,” he says. “The hardest part about playing golf for a living is being on a different golf course all the time and expecting to play great.”

He was the tournament director and golf professional at the Robinson Ranch Golf Club in Santa Clarita, California, for four years. He also worked at four other golf courses in Valencia, Thousand Oaks and Los Angeles.

Riggins moved from California to Iowa eight years ago.

“For those of us not born in Iowa, it seems we find our way here for either love or a job. I moved here for love, then also found a job,” he says.

He was hired as the general manager and director of golf instruction at Jester Park, a position he held for four years before moving to the Des Moines Golf and Country Club. He currently lives in the West Des Moines area. After settling in Iowa, Riggins played in the Iowa Open a few times when it was at Lake Panorama.

“I have always admired the Lake Panorama National Resort,” he says. “I’m so pleased to be here and look forward to helping our members and guests in any way I can.”

Riggins says golf instruction is a passion of his.

“I enjoy helping people advance their skills as a golfer. Seeing positive results in their game reflects directly on their desire to play,” he says. “I plan to develop and grow golf clinics and group lessons, because the group atmosphere seems less intimidating. The feeling everyone is watching you is a big fear to those just beginning, and the group environment seems to help players get past that.”

Riggins says he prefers to work with smaller groups.

“Five or six people is my comfort zone to ensure enough attention is given to everyone,” Riggins says. “Private lessons also will be available by appointment.”

Lake Panorama National has offered a junior golf school for more than 20 years, and Riggins plans to build on that to further advance the game of golf at the LPN.

“Growing up, I was involved in a great junior golf program,” he says. “I love to see juniors excited about playing and getting better. The current program will remain, and I will do everything I can to grow the junior program further.”

Riggins says his first few weeks on the job have been spent “getting my head wrapped around the operation. I don’t like change just for the sake of change. I like to evaluate first,” he says. “I’m sure there will be some changes as we move forward. All 2021 tournaments and special events on the calendar will remain in place. I would like to add some new, fun events and am putting ideas together.”

Riggins plans to play a key role in all LPN golf leagues, and also is eager to help at Panorama West in any way possible.

“I want everyone to feel welcome and wanted,” he says. “I have been involved with all the different leagues at the courses I have been at, and I expect to give everyone the same attention here.”

Michael Kleinwolterink started working at the LPN as a teenager in the cart barn, moved to the pro shop, and was the first assistant pro there for many years. Beginning in 2016, he spent two years as manager of the Links restaurant. In 2018, he returned to the pro shop as manager, a position he continues to hold.

“Michael is a big part of the operation. He has been involved for a long time, and I will lean on him throughout the season,” says Riggins. “Michael does a lot of the behind-the-scenes work at the club, and LPN is very lucky to have him.”

In terms of merchandise offered in the LPN pro shop, Riggins says much of that has already been ordered for the 2021 season. But, as he gets more familiar with current vendors and sees what members and guests like, some merchandising changes may occur.

“I want the shop full of merchandise that members of the club can be proud of,” he says.

Riggins is eager to get the 2021 golf season underway.

“I understand what drives golfers to do what they do and relate to the enthusiasm as well as the despair that this game can bring,” he says. “I want members at both Lake Panorama golf courses to know I am always available. They can stop by, call or email me with any questions or concerns. I am here to help.”

Posted 3/9/21

Amanda Creen, director at The Lakeside Village, a senior living community located on Lake Panorama, recently was awarded the 2020 Community Impact Award by Jaybird Senior Living. The Lakeside Village is managed by Jaybird Senior Living, which has more than 60 properties in its portfolio and is the largest operator of senior living communities in the Midwest.

The Community Impact Award is given to an individual who has made a positive impact on society through his/her own volunteerism and philanthropic efforts.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused an already precarious staffing pipeline to plunge into dangerous waters. Guthrie County lacked opportunities for area citizens to further their education and gain employment.

When she learned of the Future Ready Iowa Earn & Learn and Employer Innovation grants, Creen dove head-first into passionately lobbying for the funds that would present opportunities for local residents. Her efforts paid off, and the community was awarded more than $245,000 to assist with programming, compensation, training accommodations and educational materials.

“Over 200 people have taken CNA classes, and all will go on to be advanced CNAs. Fifty people have become ServSafe certified, and 15 have taken the Iowa assisted living manager course. None of this would have been possible if it would not have been for Amanda working so hard to help others advance their lives,” says Marla Hammer, hospitality coordinator at The Lakeside Village.

The annual Jaybird Achievement Awards were announced in the fall of last year. This was the inaugural award cycle with 11 awards given in the following categories: Community Director of the Year, Community Nurse of the Year, Community Team Member of the Year, Jaybird Team Member of the Year, Dare to Dream of the Year, Innovation Award, and Community Impact Award. As appreciation for their dedication to providing red carpet service, each winner received a cash prize and award.

For more information, call (800) 366-6716, or visit www.jaybirdSL.com. 

Posted 3/9/21

The 10 Squared Women of Guthrie County held its first quarter meeting both live and with the option of virtual attendance and voting. After hearing three presentations on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2021, the Bagley Public Library was chosen to receive the first round of funding for 2021 from the group. The group is proud to announce a lump sum of $10,100 was presented to Bagley Public Library. This consists of 10 Squared Women member donations and several employer matches. The group expects a few more member donations to come in as well.

The Bagley Public Library’s mission is to ensure that the people of the city of Bagley and the surrounding rural areas (regardless of age, financial status or ethnic background) have the right and means to free and open access to ideas, information and technology, which are fundamental to a democracy. The library will protect intellectual freedom, promote literacy, encourage lifelong learning and provide materials, formats and information services to meet these needs.

The Bagley Public Library provides a place for community members to gather and socialize. Their library offers public computer access, 24/7 Wi-Fi, faxing and copying, a meeting room, a large variety of books including large print, free DVD checkouts, Bridges, and their library online card catalog. Their programs include summer reading, story hour, reading with Zoey the therapy dog, gather and chat social hour, and game choice of the week for adults (cards, dominoes, cribbage). The donation from 10 Squared Women will go toward realizing their dream of replacing the original carpet, remodeling the kitchen and updating the bathroom in the library.

“The Bagley Public Library director, staff and board of trustees wish to express our sincere gratitude to the 10 Squared Women of Guthrie County for your generosity. You have made what seemed to be an impossible goal become possible,” says Joni Dvorak, president, library board of trustees.

The 10 Squared Women’s group holds meetings quarterly at Lake Panorama Conference Center the fourth Tuesday in February, May, August and November, subject to change. Upcoming meeting dates are Tuesday, May 25, Tuesday, Aug. 24 and Tuesday, Nov. 16 (held a week earlier due to Thanksgiving). Members in attendance hear from three nominated organizations, drawn from “the hat” of member-nominated organizations at random, and vote on the winning cause that night. COVID-19 has created the need to do things a little differently, as far as electronic conversations and virtual presentations, meetings and votes on the causes that will be funded.

10 Squared Women is focused on helping and donating to local organizations that vow to put those charitable funds to work, right in our back yards. The funds are used in various projects to benefit Guthrie County community’s residents.

The group currently has approximately 93 members and 20 organizations nominated. It strongly encourages additional philanthropic organizations and new members to come forward. Since 10 Squared Women of Guthrie County was formed in January 2017, it has contributed nearly $186,000 toward various causes in our county. These have included cities of Yale and Jamaica park improvements, and now city of Bagley for its library, daycare and preschool programs in Adair and Guthrie Center (KidZone) and Panora (Little Panther), School Backpack programs at AC/GC, West Central Valley and Panorama, as well as programs that benefit residents from all corners of Guthrie County: Guthrie County Helping Hands (Habitat for Humanity projects in Stuart, Casey, Guthrie Center, Adair, Panora, Yale, Menlo, Jamaica, and Bagley), New Opportunities, Panora P.E.T.S., Guthrie Activity Center, Tori’s Angels Foundation, Guthrie County Sheriff’s Chaplains, Guthrie County Historical Village Foundation, Guthrie County Hospital Foundation, and Guthrie County Arts Council.

10 Squared Women members are encouraged to talk to their friends, neighbors and family about the group, and to share the group within their social circles. Members are not required to attend meetings; however, in order for their vote to count, must be in attendance at the meeting. All members are expected to write their donation checks whether they can attend the meeting and vote or not.

The group is continuously looking for new members who are excited about helping their communities and Guthrie County. To learn how to get involved, visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/10squaredwomengc, or email them at 10squaredgc@gmail.com. Membership Forms and Frequently Asked Questions can be found on their Facebook page or by contacting them through Facebook or email.

Posted 3/9/21
Neil Duane Wright, 69, of Panora, passed away Feb. 20, 2021, after a year-long battle with lung cancer.

Neil was born April 2, 1951, to Donald and Juanita (Kennett) Wright in Jefferson, Iowa. After graduating from Jefferson Community High School in 1969, he attended Iowa Central Community College in Fort Dodge. In 1970, Neil was married to Susan DeWitt and had a daughter, Nichole. 

Throughout his life, Neil had many business ventures, including working for Morton Buildings and most recently owner of The Trash Man in Webster City, Iowa. Neil was a passionate businessman and loved being involved in the community. He served on the Lake Panorama Association and Panora State Bank Boards. He was a member of the Jefferson Elks. Neil was an avid golfer and a long-time member of the Jefferson community and Lake Panorama National Golf Courses.

Neil married Jolene (Golden) Wright in Hawaii on Dec. 1, 2001, and they have lived at Lake Panorama for more than 20 years. Neil and Jolene enjoyed playing cards, traveling, boating and, of course, golf, golf, golf. They also enjoyed spending time with their seven grandchildren. Neil will be remembered through many stories told on the golf course and around the card table.

Neil was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Juanita, and his grandson Kenneth Declan Cunningham. He is survived by his wife Jolene, his daughter Nichole Campbell of Cumming, Iowa; his stepchildren, Joell and Buddy Herrick of Waukee, Danny and Gina Cunningham of Perry; grandchildren Grant, Gaven and Gage Campbell, Sydney and Halle Herrick, and Skylar and Eliza Cunningham.
Services were held Feb. 25, 2021, at Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson, followed by burial in the Jefferson Cemetery.

Posted 3/9/21
By Jolene Goodman

One of the many joys of witnessing your children growing up is learning from them as they master their talents. Shane and I are blessed to have three amazing cooks in the family… our daughters! I have learned so much from them in recent years and am working to up my cooking skills, as it has become very obvious that I am now pretty lazy in the kitchen. One of my favorite recipes from Sara is fish tacos. These can vary each time she makes them, always flavorful and easy to prepare. The best part about this basic recipe is that it truly is fresh, fast and flavorful.

Experiment with your taco toppings by adding avocado, chopped carrots, cabbage and different cheese varieties. Then, start tweaking the sauce. Enjoy! In a bowl, mix spices for fish. Season each tilapia fillet with season mix. Over medium-high heat, cook two fillets at a time for eight minutes, flipping halfway. Repeat for the remaining fillets (or dust off that grill!). While those are cooking, prepare your taco toppings and mix the taco sauce.

Jolene Goodman is the advertising director for Lake Panorama Times and resides with her husband Shane on Lake Panorama.

FISH TACOS
4 Tilapia fillets
16 flour tortillas

Seasoning for fish
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp nature’s season (or salt)
1/2 tsp pepper

Taco toppings
Cilantro, chopped
Fresh greens, chopped
Red onion, diced
Tomato, diced
Feta

Taco sauce ingredients
1 cup sour cream (or mayonnaise)
2 tbsp Franks hot sauce (or more)
1/2 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp lime juice (or less, don’t use too much!)

Posted 3/9/21
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

The Lake Panorama Association (LPA) staff already is gearing up for spring and summer projects, while managing the daily changes of an Iowa winter. This month’s Q&A with John Rutledge, LPA general manager, includes information on several topics important to LPA members.

Q: What changes in COVID-19 policy can LPA members expect for this spring and summer?
A: Like everyone else, we’re looking forward to a return to a pre-pandemic environment. We remain optimistic but will approach all policy changes with a measure of caution. Policies may differ between the LPA and Lake Panorama National/Panorama West, due to the nature of those businesses and the facilities in which they operate.

Lake Panorama National and Panorama West are looking forward to welcoming guests for golf and dining. The dining facilities will continue to utilize the ample space we have available and ensure those who wish to maintain social distancing can continue to do so. As in 2020, golf will continue to offer members an opportunity to safely enjoy the outdoors and get some much-needed fresh air.

Lake Panorama National policies continue to require the wearing of masks by staff who are in contact with customers. We understand some customers appreciate this and others think it is unnecessary. Please know we don’t seek to be part of a political debate on masking, but rather, we strive to ensure we can provide all of our customers with a level of comfort and service they expect.

The LPA office will continue to be closed to walk-in traffic until further notice; however, we will accept visitors by appointment. This decision is based upon both the limited physical space of the LPA office and the well-defined peak of spring traffic LPA experiences.

For instance, LPA issued 2,841 boat stickers during 2020. In pre-pandemic times, it was common to have dozens of members cycle through the small space of LPA’s front office on a given day. But in 2020, LPA office staff and the LPA membership worked through the pandemic by communicating via email, telephone and by using the LPA drop-off box. This strategy worked extremely well and allowed us to avoid the concerns associated with a congested waiting area.

Due to the uncertainty of the year to come, the LPA office will continue our COVID-19 protocol into the 2021 season. Thanks to all of our members who have helped make this a very safe and effective approach to conducting business with the LPA office.


Q: Look ahead to 2021 and share some dates LPA members should have on their calendars.
A: The 2021 LPA annual meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 8, at the LPN Conference Center. The meeting will include the election of three members to the LPA board of directors, as well as an annual overview on the business of the association. If the board of directors determines it is imprudent to host a large gathering on May 8, then the backup date of Saturday, June 26, will be used.

The annual Fin and Feather fundraiser banquet generally coincides with the date of the LPA annual meeting. This year, the Fin and Feather officers have set Saturday, June 26, as the date for the organization’s 2021 banquet.

With COVID-19 concerns continuing, the officers decided waiting another seven weeks would be best so committee members could more safely and effectively accomplish banquet preparation. The banquet will be held at the LPN Conference Center with social hour beginning at 5 p.m. A dinner and silent/live auctions will follow at 6 p.m.

The Independence Day weekend always marks a highlight of summer for many LPA members. The annual Fire in the Sky Fireworks Show is scheduled for Saturday, July 3, 2021.

Q: What capital projects does LPA have planned for 2021?
A: LPA’s largest capital expenditure for 2021 involves a proactive maintenance project at the LPA dam. Over the last several years, LPA, Shive-Hattery Engineers and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources have been working together to develop a plan for improvements to the dam’s auxiliary spillway. This project is designed to ensure the dam remains sufficiently protected in the rare occurrence of a major flood event that utilizes the auxiliary spillway.

In 1986 and 1993, the LPA dam’s concrete principal spillway was unable to keep up with the inflow of epic rain events. So, as it was designed to do, water discharged over the earthen auxiliary spillway, which ensured the structural integrity of the dam was not threatened. On both occasions, the auxiliary spillway functioned effectively.

The principal spillway and the auxiliary spillway are separated by a substantial earthen berm. This berm is critical to ensure any flows over the auxiliary spillway are kept away from the concrete walls of the principal spillway. Inspections of the separation berm identified the importance of proactive maintenance in this area.

Bids will be requested for this earthwork project in early 2021, with the work being completed by September 2021. Total earthwork and engineering for this project is anticipated to cost between $200,000 and $250,000. The project will not require any adjustment of the lake’s water level and will not impact the 2021 boating season.

Also on the list for 2021 are the replacement of an LPA security boat and a security pickup. This department continues to maintain a fleet of three patrol boats and two security trucks.

A final notable improvement will be replacement of the bathrooms at Shady Beach and Sunset Beach. Timing of this work is up in the air but will be communicated to the membership as the project advances.

Posted 3/9/21
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

The officers of Lake Panorama Fin and Feather recently set Saturday, June 26 as the date for the organization’s 2021 annual banquet. The banquet had been tentatively scheduled for May 8 to coincide with the LPA annual meeting, but with COVID-19 concerns continuing, the officers decided waiting another seven weeks would be best so committee members could more safely and effectively accomplish banquet preparation.

The 2020 Fin and Feather annual banquet was cancelled because of COVID-19 public gathering restrictions. However, the organization was able to continue the 2020 fish stocking effort through its use of fund reserves generated at previous fundraising banquets.

More than $14,000 worth of fish were added in November 2020 to Lake Panorama. Fish stocking totals for 2020 included 2,500 walleye, 1,200 smallmouth bass and 1,000 largemouth bass.

Volunteers in the non-profit Fin and Feather group have been stocking fish and working to improve fishing conditions in Lake Panorama since 1984.

The June 26 Fin and Feather banquet will be held at the Lake Panorama National Resort with social hour beginning at 5 p.m. A dinner and silent/live auctions will follow at 6 p.m. All ages are welcome.

Tickets to the event are $35 each, with children 12 and younger $20. Another option is to join the Big Skipper Club at a cost of $125. This covers two dinner tickets, raffle tickets, name in the program and an annual family membership. The cost of an annual family membership is $40.

Donations, tickets and other payments made in 2020 were carried over to 2021 and can be used for 2021 memberships and meal tickets. Those who would like to use their 2020 payment as a donation can do so and also make 2021 purchases and payments.

To purchase dinner tickets and memberships by check, make it payable to Fin and Feather and mail to Doug Hemphill, Farmers State Bank, P.O. Box 110, Yale, IA 50277. Dinner reservations and payments also can be made online using a credit card or PayPal account. Visit the organization’s website at www.panoramafinandfeather.com.