RECIPE
Game Day chicken wings

15819 a
Posted 9/3/2021
By Jolene Goodman

I love game day. I grew up in Ames, and my parents were true Cyclone fans, attending games and tailgates every Saturday for decades. Iowa State fans tailgate in style with an abundance of food, games and friends gathering for one common purpose: to cheer on their team.  Through the years, I have learned the good, the bad, the easy, the hard and then the most loved food choices at a tailgate. It is undeniable that chicken wings are always a hit. Try this recipe out for your next gathering!

Jolene Goodman is the advertising director for Lake Panorama Times.

_________________________________________________


(Family Features) To find more gameday recipe inspiration, visit Culinary.net.
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS:
1/2 cup butter, cubed
1/3 cup flour
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
10 chicken wingettes, thawed
dipping sauces (optional)
fresh parsley (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 425 F.
Line baking sheet with foil. Arrange butter cubes on foil.
In medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
Coat both sides of wings in flour mixture then evenly space among butter cubes on baking sheet.
Bake wings 30 minutes.
Turn wings over and bake 15 minutes, or until crispy and fully cooked.
Serve with dipping sauces and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired.

RSVP 55+ VOLUNTEER PROGRAM NOW IN GUTHRIE COUNTY
RSVP administers four programs, and all are free services.

Maryporter
Posted 9/3/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times

An organization that helps coordinate volunteer opportunities recently expanded into Guthrie County. The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is one of the largest volunteer networks in the nation for people 55 and older with about 700 programs nationwide. In Iowa, 37 programs are offered in 66 counties.
Key funding for the program comes from a federal grant through AmeriCorps Seniors, yet a local sponsoring entity is needed; that sponsor is Boone County Hospital. RSVP in Boone County began in 1987. Services were expanded into Greene County in 2004 and into Guthrie County in late July 2021.
Michele Hull of Boone is the director for the RSVP 55+ Volunteer Program now offered in these three counties. She’s been with the organization since 1997.
“This got started because I received a call from an individual in Panora asking if there was a way to get any of the services we provide in Boone County into Guthrie County,” Hull says. “I wrote an expansion grant in 2020 to allow us to expand into Guthrie to help the county’s elderly population and also explore other partnerships.”
The approval of that grant made the Guthrie County expansion possible. Iowa received 19 RSVP expansion grants.
Mary Porter of Guthrie Center has been hired as the Guthrie County coordinator for the program that helps senior volunteers find opportunities to help others locally, while also taking requests from those in need of assistance. The Lakeside Village, 2067 Highway 4, north of Panora, is providing in-kind office space on the facility’s fourth floor.
“Mary is very enthusiastic and looking forward to meeting and talking to people about the RSVP services,” Hull says. “People can meet her at her office, or she can meet those interested elsewhere, in their homes or a public location such as a library. She’ll also be spreading the word through meetings with churches, businesses, pharmacies, medical clinics, hospital departments and local clubs and organizations.”
RSVP administers four programs, and all are free services. RSVP Respite provides the gift of time, rest and relief to a full-time caregiver of an adult family member or friend who cannot be left alone. Respite volunteers offer quality companionship to care recipients; no personal care of the recipient is involved.
The In-Home Visitation and Phone Friend programs provide friendship and companionship for older adults who are socially isolated, who may be lonely, or just want good conversation. In-home and phone friend volunteers brighten someone’s day by bringing some friendship and fun into their life. Recipients can participate in either program or both.
The Grocery Assistance Program (GAP) helps disabled adults of any age and individuals 60 and older who may have difficulty getting groceries from the store to the kitchen. Participation may be short term, such as during a temporary illness or recuperation period, or long term. GAP volunteers shop for groceries to help individuals eat healthy, maintain their independence and remain in their home.
Additional programs will be available through two partnerships. Elderbridge, which is the area agency on aging for Guthrie County, offers an Errand Buddies/Transportation program and a Telephone Reassurance program. Volunteers will be recruited through RSVP and referred to Elderbridge to help with these programs.
Fraud Fighters is a partnership with the Iowa Insurance Division. Recruited volunteers will be trained by officials in the insurance division to give short presentations on fraud and scams targeted to the population audience of people aged 50 and older.
Hull says they hope to build other partnerships with nonprofits, education and health entities as they grow.
“Through these partnerships, community needs will be met or enhanced through volunteerism,” she says.
RSVP volunteers choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, says Hull.
“Also, volunteers do not have to be retired to volunteer. Folks can be fully working, semi-retired or retired. The volunteer opportunities we currently have can be done day or evening,” she says. “Becoming an RSVP volunteer is as simple as visiting about your interests and the volunteer opportunities, fill out an enrollment form, and we connect you to where you will volunteer.”
In addition to providing valuable services to individuals and communities, Hull says older volunteers also are living active lives through volunteering.
“A growing body of research shows an association between volunteering and mental and physical health benefits,” she says. “In particular, older volunteers report lower mortality rates, lower rates of depression, fewer physical limitations, and higher levels of well-being than those in the same demographic who do not volunteer.” 
When requesting grant funds to expand into Guthrie County, Hull was required to set certain goals. One of those was to have 85 volunteers working with RSVP programs and community partnerships in Guthrie County within three years.
“We hope to get to that sooner,” she says.
To learn more about how to get involved by volunteering or receiving services, contact Mary Porter at 641-431-0132 or rsvpguthrieco@gmail.com.

2 ACES AT PANORAMA WEST 
Paula Hansen and Mary Kay O’Grady each had a hole-in-one.

Posted 9/3/2021
Two women each had a hole-in-one within two days at the Panorama West golf course in August. Paula Hansen aced the seventh hole Aug. 23. Lyle Hansen and Bill and Karen Eby were witnesses. She used a five-wood for the 132-yard shot. This was Hansen’s third hole-in-one.
A day later, Mary Kay O’Grady aced the fifth hole during the Tuesday morning women’s league, using her five-wood for the 125-yard hole. Her feat was witnessed by Coop Rickert. This was O’Grady’s first hole-in-one.
Each year, those who get a hole-in-one at Panorama West have their name added to a sign in the pro shop and receive a handmade plaque in recognition of their achievement. 

VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION EVENT SET FOR OCT. 7
This is the 14th year for this free social time and dinner recognizing Lake Panorama volunteers.

Posted 9/3/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times

Volunteers play a big role at Lake Panorama. Many maintain landscape beds at the lake’s three beaches, two golf courses and lake entrances. Others organize the Lake Panorama ski team and serve on the board of directors for the Lake Panorama Association, Lake Panorama National, and Friends of Lake Panorama.
Board members for the Southern Panorama Sewer District, On-Site Waste Water Management, and the Lake Panorama Rural Improvement Zone also volunteer many hours. The same is true for members of four committees appointed annually by the LPA board — appeals, building codes, land sales, water safety.
To celebrate the many volunteers who help make the Lake Panorama community great, a special event is planned for Thursday, Oct. 7 at the LPN Conference Center. This is the 14th year for this free social time and dinner recognizing Lake Panorama volunteers. The last one was held in October 2019, as COVID led to a cancellation of the 2020 event.
Social time begins at 5:30 p.m. with a “comfort food” dinner at 6 p.m. featuring fried chicken, meatloaf, mashed potatoes, additional sides and chef’s choice dessert.
Invitations will be mailed to known volunteers. But if you volunteered in the last two years and didn’t receive a formal invitation, please know you’re invited and can bring one guest. Reservations are due by Oct. 4 and can be made by calling the LPN front desk during business hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at 641-755-2080.

Q&A: GUTHRIE COUNTY COVID UPDATE 
Booster dose will be available in Guthrie County as soon as it is FDA-approved and CDC-recommended. 

Jothamarber
Posted 9/3/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times 

Jotham Arber, an epidemiologist, is executive director of health services for the Guthrie County Public Health department. While his position in the public health department covers many areas, since January 2020, much of his focus has been on COVID-19. In this month’s Q&A, he provides an update on the impact of COVID-19 in Guthrie County and beyond.

Q. What is the current recommendation on getting a third shot, and how will these be available in Guthrie County? 

A. On Aug. 13, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommended an additional (third dose) COVID-19 vaccine for moderately to severely immunocompromised people in order to provide sustained boosted protection. This includes people who have the following:
• Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood (currently receiving chemotherapy or radiation)
• Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
• Received a stem cell transplant within the last two years or taking medicine to suppress the immune system
• Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome); currently receiving IV treatment with Immune Globulin (IgG) medication
• Advanced or untreated HIV infection
• Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress a person’s immune response (prescribed oral steroids for longer than two weeks or prescribed oral steroids more than three times over a one-year period)
This vaccine can be received 28 days after your second dose. The additional dose is the same dose as the first two, and it is recommended you receive the same brand as your first and second dose. These are currently available in Guthrie County at all of our pharmacies and through the health department. You can go to healthyguthrie.com to make an appointment or go to any of our pharmacies for a walk-in appointment. Make sure to bring your vaccination card so the third dose can be noted on the card.
The CDC also has indicated it is working toward FDA approval and has provided recommendations for a booster dose, which CDC officials would like to see initiated in September of this year. The booster dose would be given to people who have fully functioning immune systems. The hope is that providing this booster dose six-to-eight months after the second dose will increase the level of neutralizing antibodies to provide a longer and more robust protection against Sars COV2.
This booster dose will be available in Guthrie County as soon as it is FDA-approved and CDC-recommended. The health department will send reminder cards and is putting people on a waitlist for the booster dose. You can get on the list by calling 833-833-4600. Currently we are waiting for the full guidance for the booster shot to be provided.

Q. If someone received their first two shots in Guthrie County, will they be contacted directly about the third? What about people who received their first two shots elsewhere?

A. Once we have the full recommendations for the booster dose, the health department will work to get reminder cards out with recommended dates to every Guthrie County resident who received a shot, regardless of where they got their first shots. Individuals who received the shot at the health department will be directly contacted at the beginning of the month that they are due for a booster.

Q. What is the prevalence of the Delta variant in Guthrie County, and what is the trend line?

A. Over the last three months, the Delta variant has become the most prevalent variant in Guthrie County. It makes up 90 percent of all cases we are seeing in the county. Cases have been steadily rising, and, in the past month, we are seeing case numbers very similar to last year.

Q. Can we be confident the current vaccines available are effective against the Delta variant?

A. The current vaccines provide great protection against the Delta variant. Although there has been a decrease in overall efficacies from 95 percent to 92 percent, these vaccines still are keeping people from severe illness and hospitalizations. When we look at the data on who is getting severely ill and hospitalized, the majority of cases are amongst those who are not vaccinated.

Q. What is the percentage of new COVID cases in Guthrie County for those who are vaccinated vs. those who are not?

A. Currently less than 10 percent of COVID cases in Guthrie County are in those who are vaccinated. And 95 percent of those vaccinated individuals who have tested positive report very mild symptoms, with most making comparisons to allergies or sinus infections. Ninety percent of cases in Guthrie County are in unvaccinated individuals.
More than 85 percent of all hospitalizations in the last three months have been in unvaccinated individuals. In the hospitalizations that occurred in vaccinated individuals, all patients had immunocompromising conditions that made them much more vulnerable to hospitalization.

Q. What percentage of Guthrie County residents are vaccinated?

A. Countywide more than 60 percent of all residents have been vaccinated. In residents 65 and older, this percentage is more than 98 percent. In adults over 18, more than 65 percent are vaccinated, and we are closing in on 28 percent of residents under 18 and older than 12.

Q. Some people who have been vaccinated are getting COVID. Why do you think it’s still important to get vaccinated?

A. Vaccines are not 100 percent effective, and we expected some people who were vaccinated would still get COVID-19. Even still, vaccines are the key to keeping people from getting severely ill and staying out of the hospital. When we get vaccinated, we are giving our body the ability to defend itself from the virus with neutralizing antibodies and to rapidly respond when its defense is broken through to prevent severe disease.

Q. What do you think is ahead for us in the coming weeks and months?

A. Over the next few weeks, I think we will see cases continue to rise. We have started seeing that trend already. There are close to 4,000 individuals in Guthrie County who remain unvaccinated. Some may have already had a COVID-19 infection, providing some protection. But those who have had neither the vaccine nor an infection are the most vulnerable to severe infection. With the Delta variant being up to three times more transmissible than the variant we saw last year, and having a fairly large pocket of vulnerable residents, we anticipate the virus transmission rates to remain high.
We have seen several hospitalizations in the last two weeks of August and anticipate seeing more primarily in our unvaccinated population while transmission rates remain high. We have also seen breakthrough cases in vaccinated residents and will most likely see more as high transmission rates increase exposures to both vaccinated and unvaccinated residents.

Q. What are your recommendations about masking and social distancing?

A. There are things we always recommend to reduce virus transmission and keep people healthy. These include social distancing when transmission is high; wearing masks in indoor, large gathering, high-risk areas; and, most importantly, staying home when you are sick. When we are symptomatic, we are most infectious and most likely to spread sickness, so please stay home when you are sick!
We know not everyone can be vaccinated, and there are people who are much more vulnerable to sickness. So I recommend we all protect our community by getting vaccinated and taking extra precautions when necessary. We can all do our part to keep each other healthy and safe, because in the end, the only way we get through this pandemic is together. n

HUMMINGBIRDS STOCKING UP FOR FLIGHT TO THE TROPICS

Hummingbird4
Posted 9/3/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times 

Hummingbird sightings at Lake Panorama bird feeders became more frequent in August, as these tiny birds began to prepare for their winter migration. There are about 360 species of hummingbirds. Their heart beats up to 1,200 times per minute, and they’re the only bird that can fly backwards.
Trish Hart is a local photographer who specializes in Lake Panorama wildlife. Many of Hart’s photos are of birds, which she captures digitally as they sit on feeders on the deck of her home. She says activity at her hummingbird feeder was busy in August, as the birds “bulk up for their long migration south.
“Increased activity at the feeders is an early signal that fall migration is underway. They sense changes in the daylight duration, and the decline in flowers, nectar and insects. These brightly colored beauties fly thousands of miles south to winter in Mexico and Central America,” Hart says.
Ruby-Throated hummers are the most frequently seen breed at the Hart feeders. The males have a bright rose-colored throat. The throat color of females is more muted, yet they have brighter back feathers that shimmer an emerald-green.
Hart offers custom prints of her photos on canvas, paper, metal and glass. For more information, visit NaturesCanvasPhotos on Facebook. 
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Lake Dog

Posted 9/3/2021
By Cheryl Temple
Lake Panorama Times

Gidget
6 years old
Standard Poodle, parti-color
Owners:  Jan and Don Graham

The Grahams are avid boaters and campers at the Lake Panorama west campground. They plan to build in the next year or two. Gidget enjoys doing anything with people, including camping and boating. She likes to travel, go for walks, chase birds and eat cucumbers. Yes, cucumbers. Her pet peeves are fireworks, rain and being brushed (which is not handy for grooming). She is pictured with the Graham grandchildren: Owen, Elijah and Paige Martin.
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Cove Cat

Posted 9/3/2021
By Cheryl Temple
Lake Panorama Times

Mowgli
4 months old
Maine Coon Cat
Owner: Taylor Schwartz

Mowgli enjoys visiting his grandparents, Tammy and Dave Schwartz, at the lake. So far, his favorite things are bird watching, chasing bugs, watching boats go by and sunbathing in the windows that overlook the lake. His extended fur family includes Solita and Diego (both ragamuffins), Mateo (a ragdoll), and Judge (a Bernese mountain dog). Mowgli may be small now, but watch out, Judge, he might outgrow you! The expected weight of a Maine Coon cat is 25-30 pounds when full grown.

FAMILY-OWNED LAKE LUMBER SOLD TO ANOTHER LOCAL FAMILY 
Kelvin Hafner purchases longtime Panora business from the Neel family. 

Posted 8/10/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times 

2021 marks the 94th year the Neel family has been in the lumber business. 2021 also marks the first year for the Hafner family to be in the lumber business, with Kelvin Hafner’s recent purchase of Lake Lumber.
The transfer of ownership was announced to Lake Lumber employees July 19 in a meeting that involved Tom and Sharon Neel and Hafner.
“I told them I want to learn from them,” says Hafner. “Customer service has always been important at Lake Lumber, and I want to continue that emphasis.”
The succession plan calls for the Neels to continue to work at Lake Lumber. No final date has been set for them to retire.
“We’ll be here for a while,” Tom says. “We want to help him succeed, and we’ll be available as needed.”
Hafner calls the arrangement exciting. “I’ll be a sponge, learning from Tom and Sharon and the rest of the staff. It’s going to take me a while to process everything, to learn their internal programs. I want our contractors and customers to know this will be a seamless change.”
The Neel family’s long history in the lumber business began in 1900 when George Neel and Sons purchased a lumberyard in Rippey. One of those sons, Leonard, started Neel Lumber in Grand Junction in 1927. His son, Bob, took over the business in 1954. Bob and Dorothy Neel purchased Lake Lumber in 1977 and continued to operate the Grand Junction location until it closed in 1982.
Bob and Dorothy’s son, Tom, joined the business in 1984. Tom and Sharon met in Minnesota, where he attended Mankato State, and she attended the University of Minnesota. When they married and moved to Panora after graduation, Sharon worked for Midwest Landscaping. She joined the lumber business in 1992, taking over management of the hardware line, so Tom could focus on building materials.
Working in the lumber and construction business isn’t new to Hafner. While attending college, he worked part-time for Beach Building Center in Muscatine and transitioned to a full-time position there after graduation.
Next was a sales manager position with Moehl Millwork, a locally owned wholesale distributor of millwork products based in Ankeny. The company serves lumber dealers throughout Iowa and contractors in the Des Moines metro area. Through that position, Hafner met the Neels and has worked with them for many years.
Tom Neel says he put out some feelers to industry contacts in the past year about possibly selling the business. Hafner had, in conversation, inquired about the Neel’s succession plans, which was to someday sell. Hafner later expressed serious interest, and they started working through the details.
Bob and Dorothy Neel were among the first people to own a home at Lake Panorama. They moved into the house they built in 1979. Bob passed away in 2000. Dorothy continues to live in her Lake Panorama home, although she spends some time at Lakeside Village during the winter months. In January 2016, at the age of 86, she officially retired from her Lake Lumber bookkeeping duties.
Tom and Sharon both turn 60 years old this year and say it was never their goal to beat Dorothy’s record of working until the age of 86.
“We’re ready to slow down,” Tom says. “We hope to travel more. I want to spend more time fishing, and hunting, and laying in my hammock. I hope we can have at least 20 good years of retirement.”
Three years ago, Tom and Sharon moved from Panora to a new home they built at Lake Panorama, on a lot next to Dorothy. Their daughter Breanne is the branch manager at Lincoln Savings Bank in Clive. Daughter Emily is a graphic designer with Two Rivers Marketing in Des Moines.
While both girls worked at Lake Lumber during high school, they didn’t have an interest in being involved long-term in the lumber business.
“This is a very tough, competitive business. There aren’t many independent, locally owned lumber companies anymore,” Tom says.
Hafner recently resigned from Moehl Millwork after 25 years to take on this new opportunity as the owner of Lake Lumber. He has lived at Lake Panorama since 2000. His family consists of two sons — Drew, a junior at Iowa State University, and Ethan, who will be a freshman at Iowa State this fall — and his fiancé, Stephanie Hummel.
“We’ve always been community oriented,” says Sharon. “I think it’s great for someone who is already in our hometown to be taking over the business, rather than a corporation that doesn’t know the community and customers.”
“The Neels have established a great legacy here, and I’m humbled to have the opportunity to carry it on,” Hafner says. “I’m looking forward to taking some of the load off their plates and helping make this a positive transition for them and their customers.”
Hafner acknowledges another thing he’s happy about is the short commute. He’s been traveling to Ankeny each work day for the past three years, and for 21 years before that driving at least 1,000 miles a week.
“Now I have a 5-minute commute,” he says. “I don’t even have time to finish my coffee.” 

2021 BEACH BALL RAISES $25,000
Friends board will meet in mid-August to discuss how to allocate the funds.

Posted 8/10/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times

An estimated 200 people attended the Friends of Lake Panorama 2021 Beach Ball on July 30 at the Lake Panorama National Conference Center. After expenses, the event had a profit of $25,000.
The Friends board will meet in mid-August to discuss how to allocate the funds. Three projects had been designated to receive Beach Ball funding: Lake Panorama dog park, three swings at Sunset Beach, and enhancements to the Panorama West trail.
Information about these three current projects, plus two future projects, were on display at the Beach Ball. One of the new projects involves developing a proposal for a multi-use recreational area on Lake Panorama’s south shore on the main basin. The proposal is expected to include a disc golf course and a walking/hiking trail with additional recreational amenities considered. The plan will need approval from the LPA board of directors before work begins.
The other new project is half-court basketball at Sunset Beach. The LPA board approved this project at its June meeting, and fundraising will begin this fall.
Both outdoor and indoor spaces were used for the Beach Ball. Outside tables were under a series of tents, located on the grass between the conference center and the golf course. A buffet dinner was served outside and included steaks and chicken kabobs cooked on a nearby charcoal grill. Little Joe McCarthy, a singer and songwriter who lives in Omaha, provided live music under an outdoor tent.
After dinner, with weather radar showing heavy rain headed to the area, a decision was made to move the live auction into the banquet room. Those sitting outside moved their chairs inside to participate in the live auction, while volunteers quickly took down tents and stacked tables and chairs as the rain arrived.
New in 2021 was the Friends Beach Club. Those who joined at one of these levels paid a little extra to get a little extra, while also making an extra donation to Friends of Lake Panorama. Friends Beach Club members were listed in the program.
There were 17 businesses and groups of individuals that spent $600 to join the Premier level of the Beach Club. Fourteen couples spent $200 to be in the Couples Beach Club, with 12 businesses or individuals spending $150 for the Sponsor level.
There were 77 items donated for the silent auction, which brought in nearly $5,000. The live auction of 13 items raised $8,000, and the profit from a 50/50 raffle was $2,250.
Donations to Friends of Lake Panorama are accepted at any time and can be designated for a current or future project, or for the general fund to be allocated by the Friends board.
Checks can be made payable to Friends of Lake Panorama and mailed to PO Box 488, Panora, IA 50216.
Direct donations also can be sent via Venmo @Friends-Panorama. Credit cards are accepted on the Friends website, although Friends is charged a 2.9% processing fee on these donations. Donors are asked to consider increasing their donation to help cover this additional cost.
All donations are tax-deductible. Donors of $500 or more will be recognized on signs erected near specific projects they designate and on the donor page of the Friends website. More information is available at www.friendsoflakepanorama.org.

ON THE LAKE:
Fundraisers, family-owned businesses, festivals and patience

Shane summer 2021
Posted 8/10/2021
By Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher

Much has happened since our last issue of Lake Panorama Times with an incredible Beach Ball event, the sale of a longtime local business, an amazing community festival, and a reminder that we need to be patient with — and continue to support — our local business community.

Beach Ball impresses
If you attended the Beach Ball on July 30, you know that it was another wonderful event that raised significant money for projects at Lake Panorama. This gala is spearheaded by Friends of Lake Panorama, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization operated exclusively for charitable purposes and consisting of volunteers. Susan Thompson, who writes much of the content in this newspaper, works tirelessly to lead the Beach Ball activities, and I thank her for her commitment to the organization. I was also pleasantly surprised at the efforts of those in attendance who jumped in to help move items indoors and tear down tables and chairs as the storm approached.  Those actions exemplify what Friends of Lake Panorama — and the lake community — are all about.

Lake Lumber sells
In this issue, you will see a story about the sale of Lake Lumber. I especially enjoyed reading this article because I appreciate what Tom and Sharon Neel and their family have done for the community for decades. In this world of chain stores and corporate takeovers, it is refreshing to see that our local hardware and lumber store will continue to be locally owned (and that Tom and Sharon will continue to help). Be sure to check out the story and stop in and tell new owner Kelvin Hafner hello and thank him for being here.

Panorama Days returns
I am writing this column on the Friday of Panorama Days with a full expectation that the festival will be a huge success. I say this because I have complete confidence in Marla Hammer and Dale Hochreiter, who co-chaired this year’s event, along with the many volunteers who worked diligently to bring this event back to the area.

Algae blooms 
None of us like to see algae blooms on the lake, but we are unfortunately learning to deal with it.  That doesn’t mean we have to accept it. Water quality is going to continue to be an important issue for our entire state, and lake residents understand this better than most. Jolene and I took our family to Okoboji recently, and the algae blooms on the Upper Gar made it look like a green lawn. We can do better.

Patience needed
Speaking of Okoboji, we experienced the pain of the business owners and operators there who were operating with reduced hours and limited options. Many of the pools were closed as well.  The primary reason for their struggles is the same that many local businesses here face — a shortage of workers. As more people get back to work, this will certainly improve. In the meantime, we need to do all we can to be patient and continue to support our local businesses.
Enjoy the remainder of your summer, and, as always, thanks for reading.

Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305

RECIPE:
A perfect pairing for summer supper

15821 a
Posted 8/10/2021
By Jolene Goodman
Lake Panorama Times

(Family Features) Few moments make summers quite as special as family meals, whether you’re soaking up the sun’s rays on the patio or beating the heat at the dining room table. You can make evenings the highlight of the day with loved ones by centering dinner around the flavors of the season.
Fish, for example, is a popular choice for many with its lighter texture and a flavor profile that’s easily paired with a variety of veggies. These Blackened Salmon Sliders with Pickled Beet Relish can feed a family in a fun, handheld way with Aunt Nellie’s Pickled Beets serving as a perfect partner for the fish fillets.
To find more summer-inspired meal ideas perfect for sharing with family and friends, visit readsalads.com and auntnellies.com.

 Jolene Goodman is the advertising director for Lake Panorama Times.


Blackened salmon sliders with pickled beet relish

Recipe courtesy of tarateaspoon.com
Prep time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 sliders (2 per serving)

4 single-serve cups Aunt Nellie’s Diced Pickled Beets
1 finely chopped scallion (about 2 tablespoons)
1/2 cup shredded radishes
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup finely crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley
2 teaspoons chopped oregano
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided
1 pinch ground black pepper
2 pounds salmon fillets, skinless
3 tablespoons blackened seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
12 slider buns
1 cup baby arugula

Drain beets well. In medium bowl, combine diced beets, scallions and radishes. Set aside.
In small bowl, combine yogurt, feta, parsley and oregano. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and black pepper. Set aside.
Cut salmon into 12 roughly 2 1/2-inch squares, about 1/2-inch thick. Slice thick parts of fillets in half to make thinner, if needed.
Sprinkle fillets with salt, to taste, on both sides. Sprinkle evenly with blackened seasoning until well coated.
Heat nonstick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat and add oil. Add salmon, in batches if needed, and cook, turning once, until salmon is crisped and almost cooked through, about 1 1/2 minutes per side. Remove and let rest.
Spread each slider bun with about 1 tablespoon yogurt sauce. Layer arugula, salmon and beet relish on each slider and serve.

LPN RECEIVES SUPPORT FROM GRANITE CLUB MEMBERS
New members are the Kluster Klub, Lake Panorama Realty and The Trash Man.

Graniteclublpr
Posted 8/10/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times

In 2008, 12 businesses made monetary or in-kind contributions to Lake Panorama National to support the construction of Spikes, the snack and restroom facility located near the first tee. In exchange, the businesses received a granite sponsorship sign on an LPN tee box. Several have maintained their annual sponsorship since.
Five original Granite Club members who renewed for 2021 now are in their 13th year supporting LPN. These are Panora Telco on the third hole; Guthrie County State Bank & GCSB Investment Center on hole five; Exterior Sheet Metal on the eighth hole; Bryton Insurance on the ninth hole; and Total Financial Solutions on the 15th hole.
New members for 2021 are the Kluster Klub, which is made up of a group of LPN supporters, and is on the second hole; Lake Panorama Realty on the 11th hole; and The Trash Man on No. 14.
Lake Panorama Barge joined the Granite Club in 2020, is featured on the 7th hole, and renewed for 2021.
Minnesota Cabinets is on the 18th hole and has been a member for three years. Five members joined in 2018 and are in their fourth years. These are R&K Bristle Farms on the first hole; Iowa Trust & Savings Bank on No. 4; Hawley Insurance on the sixth hole; and Robert Carr Insurance Agency-State Farm on No. 16.
Two members joined in 2017 and have renewed annually. These are Jensen Sanitation on No. 13 and Tometich Engineering on the 17th hole.
Just two holes remain available for sponsorship – 10 and 12. Annual sponsorships are $500. New sponsors also are asked to pay the cost of the sign, which is $350.
Granite Club members receive a free round of golf for a foursome, including carts, when they purchase or renew their annual membership. Club members also are recognized on the LPN website and in the LPN Resort Weekly e-newsletter.
Granite Club membership isn’t restricted to businesses. Individuals, couples or groups are welcome to become club members, showing their support and appreciation for Lake Panorama National. All money raised is used for improvements at LPN.
Details of the Granite Club, along with a request form for more information, can be found on the LPN website at lakepanoramanational.com. Or call Royce Shaffer, LPN operations manager, at 641-755-2080.

ORIENTATION SESSION AUG. 14 FOR NEW LPA MEMBERS 
Invitations were mailed to new property owners who purchased at Lake Panorama within the last 18 months.

Posted 8/10/2021
The second Lake Panorama 101 session will be Saturday, Aug. 14 from 10-11 a.m. in the dining room at the Lake Panorama National Conference Center. Refreshments will be available.
The idea for Lake Panorama 101 came from a group of volunteers who believed there should be an organized, face-to-face opportunity to welcome new property owners to Lake Panorama. The first session was held June 18, with more than 30 people in attendance.
Topics covered during the presentation portion will be the Lake Panorama Association, Lake Panorama National, amenities available to LPA members, and resources for learning more and getting involved. There will be time for questions.
Invitations were mailed to new property owners who purchased at Lake Panorama within the last 18 months. Yet the Lake Panorama 101 sessions aren’t limited to those who receive invitations or who are new property owners. Any LPA member interested is welcome to attend.
The book “Lake Panorama – The First 50 Years” will be available for purchase at a cost of $35. The full-color, hardcover book includes both historic and contemporary photos. Book chapters describe six decades of planning and development. There are special topic chapters on Lake Panorama’s two golf courses, infrastructure and water quality efforts.
Those planning to attend the Aug. 14 session are asked to RSVP by calling the LPN front desk during daytime 

GIANT FLAG PART OF JULY 4 CELEBRATION

Flag 3
Posted 8/10/2021
For the fourth year in a row, a giant American flag was created on the lawn of Lyle and Paula Hansen’s Lake Panorama home to help celebrate the Fourth of July. Their son, Chip Hansen, is the mastermind behind what has become an annual tradition. The flag is made to scale and is five times the size of a standard 3-foot x 5-foot flag. Chip prepped the site by mowing the grass July 1. On July 2, Chip, Lyle and three of Chip’s friends started on the flag, using a commercial paint sprayer to apply the white. Spray cans were used for the red and blue colors. The process of measuring and staking out the flag, sprayer set-up and paint drying time took about six hours. Drone photo taken by Andy Harrelson.   

Lake Panorama Association Board of Directors Meeting

Posted 8/10/2021
June 29, 2021
The Lake Panorama Association Board of Directors met June 29, 2021, at 5 p.m. at Lake Panorama National Conference Center. Board members in attendance were Mary Jane Carothers, Emily Donovan, Gary Evans, David Finneseth, Julie Fulton, Rich Schumacher and Jim Spradling.
LPA Staff in attendance: Danna Krambeer, Corey Larsen, Lane Rumelhart and John Rutledge.
Visitors in attendance: Bob Goldsmith, Russ Hawley, Jan Reinecke, and Susan Thompson, LPA members.
President Schumacher called the meeting to order at 5 p.m.
Agenda Item 1 – Approval of the Agenda  
Spradling moved to approve the agenda. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
Agenda Item 2 – Open Forum – No one spoke
Agenda Item 3 – Consent Agenda
Carothers moved to approve the consent agenda. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
Consent agenda to include:
a) LPA General Manager’s Report
b) Approval of minutes from 05.25.2021 LPA Board Meeting
c) Acceptance of 05.31.2021 consolidated financial report – LPA & LPN, LLC
d) Set date for next board meeting, 07.27.2021
e) Accept minutes from 05.24.2021 LPN LLC Board of Managers meeting
f) Accept minutes from 06.14.2021 Building Codes Committee Meeting
g) Accept minutes from 06.08.2021 Water Safety Committee Meeting
h) Quit Claim Deed for Lot 6253 to correct for missing Mid IA Lakes Deed
i) Approve minutes from the  06.26.2021 LPA Board of Directors organizational meeting
Agenda Item 4a – Friends of Lake Panorama update and request for project approval  
Jan Reinecke, president of Friends of Lake Panorama, presented an update on the Dog Park project progress and future projects. Conceptual development of a multi-use recreational area on the South Shore, including walking trails and developing additional uses including a Disc golf course. Second project is a half basketball court on Sunset Beach. Reinecke asked for approval to proceed with conceptual and feasibility studies.
Evans moved to approve Friends request to pursue the concept of a south shore multi-use trail and encourage the further development of this concept by Friends of Lake Panorama. Final approval to be obtained from the LPA board of directors prior to any construction. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
Evans moved to approve the Friends project for construction of half-court basketball court at Sunset Beach, contingent on Friends of Lake Panorama raising 100 percent of the funding for this project. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
Agenda Item 4b – Offer to purchase 30’ wide section of land on south end of Boulder Beach, for combination with existing lot/home on adjacent Lot 1506 
Russ Hawley presented an offer of $40,000 to purchase a 30’ wide section of land adjacent to existing owned lot 1506, plus all closing costs, including survey, abstracting, document preparation fee and closing costs.
Carothers moved to table this item to the next board meeting. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
Schumacher moved to Agenda Item 4j.
Agenda Item 4j – Building Code change 2860 Boathouses: define maintenance vs. structural repair and establish rules for both  
Bob Goldsmith spoke to the board regarding his boathouse, asking for approval of a permit to repair and rebuild his boathouse. The building committee was unable to approve, based on the request for structural change.
Excerpt from the Building Code Committee Minutes:
Rumelhart asked the committee for guidance on the direction of boathouse construction and maintenance at Lake Panorama. Rumelhart explained that members interpret the rule differently and the section in the Building Codes needs to be clarified. The issue is in 2860.2, where it states: “Any construction on existing boathouses will be for the purpose of maintenance of the boathouse with no structural changes, including change of roofline, allowed.” Marckres agreed the rule offered no guidance on what was considered a structural change, and it should not be left up to interpretation of LPA Management. Rumelhart informed the committee it was his understanding the rule was placed to eventually eliminate boathouses at the lake. Brown disagreed and asked why LPA would prohibit members from spending money on a structure inherited with the lot. Brown believed if an engineer gave LPA written approval of the foundation of the boathouse that allowed a safe structure to be built, members should be able to build back a boathouse to the exact same dimensions as what was previously there. The entire committee agreed with Brown’s point, and Schumacher added that we would not want to let anyone change a foundation, because we might as well let anyone build a brand-new boathouse. Rumelhart asked the committee if anyone were opposed to the addition or subtraction of windows and doors to a boathouse. Brown commented that LPA does not require a permit to add a window or door to a home, as that is not changing the roof pitch or footprint. Brown then made a motion to add verbiage to section 2860 in the LPA Building Codes to allow boathouse to be built back to the exact same dimensions, size and roof pitch pending a licensed engineer’s approval of the foundation. Motion seconded by Miller and unanimously approved.
Carothers moved to table the rules discussion until the next meeting, by which time LPA management and attorney can rewrite the building codes regarding boathouses. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
Agenda Item 4c – Committee Appointments for 2021-2022 year
The board discussed the recommendation for committee appointments and Board members for each committee. Rutledge noted the board would need to select two members of the board of directors to serve on each committee.
Building Committee/Term Expires
Andy Harrelson 2024
Jon Marckres 2024
John Miller 2023
Dirk Westercamp 2023
Terry Gebard 2023
Kent Brown 2022
Ken Powell 2022
Gary Evans LPA Board Member
Julie Fulton LPA Board Member

Water Safety Committee/Term Expires
Chad Tope 2024
Mike Appleseth 2024
Therese McConeghey 2023
Todd Nevenhoven 2023
Dale Behrends 2022
Todd Hyde 2022
Marina Tenant – Lyn Coulter Continuous
Emily Donovan LPA Board Member
Jim Spradling LPA Board Member

Land Sales Committee/Term Expires
Charles Schnack 2024
Bob Batschelet 2023
Kathleen DeLucca 2023
Tom Jeschke 2022
Maureen Lubeck 2022
MJ Carothers LPA Board Member
Dave Finneseth LPA Board Member

Appeals Committee/Term Expires
Mindy Larsen Poldberg 2024
Pam Johnson 2023
Dan York 2023
Linda Reis 2022
John McDermott 2022
Finneseth moved to approve the committee member appointments, as listed with term dates. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
Agenda Item 4d – Side lot Variance request, lot 374, 6324 Panorama Drive 
Excerpt from the Building Code Committee Minutes:
Dale Behrends, owner of lot 374, requested a two-foot side lot variance to build stairs to a deck. The committee reviewed the plans for the deck as Behrends explained the stairs would block doors and windows if placed anywhere else on the home. Rumelhart pointed out that the lot next to Behrends was an LPA Community Area and would take 100% membership vote to sell the lot. Based on the fact that the proposed deck and stairs met all other requirements and LPA would still have sufficient access along the side lot area, Gebard made a motion to grant a two-foot side lot variance for lot 374. Motion seconded by Schumacher and unanimously approved.
Evans moved to approve variance request for two feet side lot setback variance for deck stairs, on lot 374, 6324 Panorama Drive, Dale & Laura Behrends. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
Agenda Item 4e – Fence Variance Request, 5112 Karen Drive, Promontory Point Condo  
Excerpt from the Building Code Committee Minutes:
Chris and Brenda Duree at 5112 Karen Drive requested a variance to build a fence up to two feet taller than the 48-inch required fence in LPA Building Codes. Rumelhart pointed out that the Duree’s home was part of the Promontory Point HOA and neighbored the Clover Ridge HOA. The Clover Ridge HOA engages in short-term rentals via a relationship with LPN, LLC. This allows more frequent rental than is experienced anywhere else, due to LPA’s home rental rules. Durees also inherited a very tall retaining wall on the edge of their property that could cause harm if someone unfamiliar with the area came across and fell over. Chris Duree pointed out that the terrain of the lot did not work well with a four-foot-tall fence, as the property drops off near the retaining wall and would need a higher fence to ensure privacy beyond the wall. Based on the fact the Duree condo is located in close proximity to LPN, LLC related lodging, Duree’s privacy is restricted, and the retaining wall could pose a threat to a guest, Evans made a motion to grant a variance to allow for a fence up to six feet tall on the north side of 5112 Karen Drive, Promontory Point Condo. Motion seconded by Miller and unanimously approved.
Donovan moved to approve variance request to allow a six (6) foot tall fence on the north side of 5112 Karen Drive, Promontory Point Condo, Chris and Brenda Duree. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
Agenda Item 4f – Garage Door Variance request for detached garage, Parcel A of Lot 112, 6930 Donahey Drive  
Excerpt from the Building Code Committee Minutes:
David Kruse with Grand Homes and Renovations represented Toby and Stephanie Geiger at 6930 Donahey Drive to request a variance for a garage door that was not a traditional overhead door. Kruse presented plans for swinging garage doors that met the size requirement of 8’x7’ in LPA Building Codes. Rumelhart pointed out to the committee that the structure met all other guidelines in LPA’s Building Codes, even though some members questioned the structure’s true use as a garage. After further discussion, Westercamp made a motion to award a variance allowing swinging garage doors on the detached garage on Parcel A of Lot 112, 6930 Donahey Drive, as the doors were still aesthetically pleasing and met the size requirement of a regular eight-foot by seven-foot overhead door. Motion seconded by Powell and unanimously approved.
Evans moved to approve variance request for swinging garage doors on the detached garage on Parcel A of Lot 112, 6930 Donahey Drive, Toby & Stephanie Geiger. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
Agenda Item 4g – Building Codes addition 2901 Lighting Regulations – Prohibit flashing white lights from shore 
Excerpt from the Building Code Committee Minutes:
Rumelhart asked the committee to look at some minor adjustments in three sections of the building codes. 
The first section was to add a section under Lighting to prohibit white, flashing lights near shore with the exception of the Marina Lighthouse Jetty. Westercamp made a motion to approve the following language to prohibit white, flashing lights. Motion seconded by Powell and carried unanimously.
2901 Lighting Regulations: 2901.6 The use of white, flashing lights shall be reserved exclusively for LPA centerline lake buoys; the display of white, flashing lights from shore shall be strictly prohibited, with the exception of the marina lighthouse jetty. Members are responsible to ensure any lights displayed from shore are in good working order and that they cannot be reasonably mistaken for an LPA centerline buoy.
Carothers moved to approve the following addition to the Building Codes. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
2901 Lighting Regulations: 2901.6 The use of white, flashing lights shall be reserved exclusively for LPA centerline lake buoys; the display of white, flashing lights from shore shall be strictly prohibited, with the exception of the marina lighthouse jetty. Members are responsible to ensure any lights displayed from shore are in good working order and that they cannot be reasonably mistaken for an LPA centerline buoy.
Agenda Item 4h – Building Codes addition 2802 & 2850 – Only storage sheds allowed on undeveloped lots 
Excerpt from the Building Code Committee Minutes:
Rumelhart asked the committee to look at some minor adjustments in three sections of the building codes, second section review requested -  
2802 Construction Types Prohibited: 2802.4 No building, other than a storage structure of 100 square feet or less, may be erected on any lot prior to the erection of a dwelling house.
2850 Gazebo Building Permit and Requirements: 2850.1 Only one gazebo or similar structure per lot. 2850.11 Gazebos may only be constructed on developed lots.
Donovan moved to approve adopting the following additions to the Building Codes regarding storage sheds and gazebos. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
2802 Construction Types Prohibited: 2802.4 No building, other than a storage structure of 100 square feet or less, may be erected on any lot prior to the erection of a dwelling house.
      2850 Gazebo Building Permit and Requirements: 2850.1 Only one gazebo or similar structure per lot.
2850.11 Gazebos may only be constructed on developed lots.
Agenda Item 4i – Consider Building Code change to 2810 re: modular construction 
Rumelhart asked the committee to look at some minor adjustments in three sections of the building codes, third section review requested -
Excerpt from the Building Code Committee Minutes:
Westercamp pointed out that the current codes allow residences to be stick built, modular, or log. Last meeting the committee voted to approve Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF). Westercamp felt that the term “modular” should be taken out of the codes, and stick built should be enhanced to read: “stick built stud construction.” Rumelhart noted that modular homes can be pre-built with studs. Westercamp agreed with Rumelhart but felt “modular” could represent other building types that should not be allowed at LPA. With no further discussion, Miller made a motion to eliminate “modular” and add “stick built stud construction” to section 2810.0 of the LPA Building Codes. Motion seconded by Westercamp and unanimously approved.
Rutledge recommended the board table this recommendation from the Building Codes committee until further study can be completed by LPA management and the LPA attorney.
Spradling moved to table discussion on modular restrictions. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
Agenda Item 4k – Rule change 5.1(t) Prohibit self-powered hydrofoils and surfboards
From the Water Safety committee meeting minutes:
Rutledge proposed a rule change to 5.1(t) to add self-powered hydrofoils and surfboards to the prohibited activities list. Appleseth mentioned these types of watercraft require a lot of practice and pose a threat to other boaters as members fall off these pieces of equipment. Visibility was also noted as a serious point of safety concern. Behrends made a motion to approve the following rule change to 5.1(t), effectively banning self-powered hydrofoils and surfboards. Motion seconded by Tope and carried unanimously. (Strikethrough deleted and Underline added.)
5.1 (t) Prohibited Activities: Any authorized vessel operating on the lake shall not use any glider kits, motorized glider, kites, parasails, kite tubes, flyboards or like objects in connection with said use of vessel.
To ensure safe use of Lake Panorama, LPA prohibits the use of glider kits, self-powered gliders, kites, parasails, kite tubes, flyboards, self-powered hydrofoils, self-powered surfboards or like objects.
Spradling moved to approve the update to the LPA rules on Prohibited Activities as follows. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
5.1 (t) Prohibited Activities: Any authorized vessel operating on the lake shall not use any glider kits, motorized glider, kites, parasails, kite tubes, flyboards or like objects in connection with said use of vessel.
To ensure safe use of Lake Panorama, LPA prohibits the use of glider kits, self-powered gliders, kites, parasails, kite tubes, flyboards, self-powered hydrofoils, self-powered surfboards or like objects.
Agenda Item 4l – Rule addition 5.6 Prohibit deicers and bubblers around docks and lifts in winter 
From the Water Safety committee meeting minutes:
Aerators were present during the 2020-2021 winter season, which caused concern from the membership. Appleseth mentioned the devices are a threat to winter recreation such as snowmobiles and ice fishermen. Rutledge asked the committee to make a motion to prohibit aerators and deicers in rule 5.6(c). Behrends made a motion to approve the following rule change to 5.6(c), which will prohibit aerators and deicers during the winter season. Motion seconded by Nevenhoven and carried unanimously. (Strikethrough deleted and Underline added.)
5.6 LAKE USAGE / PROPERTY RIGHTS ISSUES: 5.6(c) The use of bubblers or deicers around docks and lifts is prohibited. This rule shall not apply to LPA or Rural Improvement Zone operations.
Carothers moved to approve the following update to the LPA rules on lake usage of bubblers or deicers. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
5.6 LAKE USAGE / PROPERTY RIGHTS ISSUES: 5.6(c) The use of bubblers or deicers around docks and lifts is prohibited. This rule shall not apply to LPA or Rural Improvement Zone operations.
Agenda Item 5a – Rule change 5.5 Invasive species quarantine period for used lifts and docks 
From the Water Safety committee meeting minutes:
At the May Board of Directors Meeting, LPA’s rule on Invasive Species protection was reviewed. Rutledge explained our current rule, 5.5(h) requires members to bring used lifts, docks, or similar items to Lake Panorama and sit out for the winter season before being placed in the lake. With the shortage of steel across the country, local vendors are struggling to provide members with new lifts. This has led to members searching for lifts outside of the Lake Panorama Community. With lifts being brought in from lakes with known invasives, Larsen and Rumelhart were looking for direction from the Board on how to handle going forward. Rutledge recommended an adjustment to the rule, which would allow the lifts to enter Lake Panorama following a successful inspection by LPA and completion of a 30-day quarantine period. This period would start once the lift has been inspected and approved by LPA Management. Behrends made a motion to approve the following rule change to 5.5(h), which will allow boat lifts, docks, or similar structures to enter Lake Panorama after a successful inspection by LPA and a 30-day quarantine period. Motion seconded by McConeghey and carried unanimously. (Strikethrough deleted and Underline added.)
5.5 INVASIVE SPECIES PROTECTION: (h.) No water-related equipment such as boats and lifts previously installed at any other water body shall be moved to or installed at Lake Panorama, unless all of the following conditions have been met.
(1.) Water-related equipment shown to have been thoroughly drained, cleaned, dried and treated may be considered for permission to install, but only in the boating season following removal from a previous water body, and only after thorough inspection to confirm clean status.
The water-related equipment shall have successfully passed an inspection by LPA staff, which confirms the equipment is thoroughly clean, drained and dry. LPA shall have sole discretion in approving the equipment’s condition and shall have the right to require the member drill drainage holes in select locations of the equipment to ensure the equipment is not retaining water within the internal components of the structure.
Following successful inspection by LPA staff, the equipment shall be tagged and quarantined for not less than 30 days. The member shall be responsible for securing a suitable quarantine location, which is safely distanced from the lake or areas that immediately drain into the lake. LPA shall have sole discretion to confirm what constitutes a suitable quarantine location.
Evans moved to approve the following update to the LPA rules on Invasive Species Protection, adding quarantine option. Motion seconded, carried unanimously.
(Strikethrough deleted and Underline added.)
5.5 INVASIVE SPECIES PROTECTION: (h.) No water-related equipment such as boats and lifts previously installed at any other water body shall be moved to or installed at Lake Panorama, unless all of the following conditions have been met.
(1.) Water-related equipment shown to have been thoroughly drained, cleaned, dried and treated may be considered for permission to install, but only in the boating season following removal from a previous water body, and only after thorough inspection to confirm clean status.
The water-related equipment shall have successfully passed an inspection by LPA staff, which confirms the equipment is thoroughly clean, drained and dry. LPA shall have sole discretion in approving the equipment’s condition and shall have the right to require the member drill drainage holes in select locations of the equipment to ensure the equipment is not retaining water within the internal components of the structure.
Following successful inspection by LPA staff, the equipment shall be tagged and quarantined for not less than 30 days. The member shall be responsible for securing a suitable quarantine location, which is safely distanced from the lake or areas that immediately drain into the lake. LPA shall have sole discretion to confirm what constitutes a suitable quarantine location.
Schumacher moved to Agenda item 7
Agenda Item 7 – Other Business – Request to use goats for vegetation management on LPA property
Steve Jayne and Karen Shaff requested the Board consider the “Goats on the Go” be allowed on lake lots to maintain vegetation. Rutledge advised the board he had denied their request based upon his understanding of the LPA covenants. Rutledge asked the board to review his interpretation and confirm or correct his decision.
Williams, legal counsel, advised the board the LPA Covenants state “No animals or fowl shall be kept or maintained on said lots except customary household pets in reasonable numbers.” In his legal opinion, this covenant prohibits the keeping of livestock on-property, even if it is for a short period of time.
Based upon legal counsel guidance, the board confirmed management’s denial of the Jayne/Shaff request.
Rutledge discussed request from member regarding fireworks. Paul Davis called and requested permission to shoot fireworks from South Shore on July 4. Rutledge noted Davis annually obtains a permit from Guthrie County for use on his own property, and his neighbor’s property. Rutledge advised Davis that he is free to launch from his own property, but LPA does not allow members to launch fireworks from LPA-owned property. The only exception is for members who coordinate a show in advance and use a fully-insured fireworks company. Rutledge asked the board to confirm or correct his decision to deny Davis’ request.
The Board confirmed management’s denial of Davis’ request, noting fireworks cannot be set from LPA property without proper permits and approved authorization by LPA.
 Agenda Item 6 – Closed Session – The board entered closed session at 6:45 p.m. to discuss legal matters. Board exited closed session at 7:05 p.m.
Adjourn - With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:06 p.m.

OUT & ABOUT:

Tracy Welberg sent these photos of sand castles created by kids on Boulder Beach. 
Img 2174

OUT & ABOUT:

Caleb Pelzer, age 8, recently caught this crappie on the shoreline of Party Cove and released it back.

COFFEE WITH THE GM 
Seal coating, boat permits, emerald ash borers and more.  

Posted 8/10/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times 

At a July 29 “Coffee with the GM,” John Rutledge, LPA general manager and LPN, LLC director of operations, provided an update on three entities — the Lake Panorama Association, Lake Panorama Rural Improvement Zone (RIZ), and Lake Panorama National Resort.
For the LPA, Rutledge said seal coating of 4.38 miles of roads on Lake Panorama’s west side is complete. Because of issues with oil bleeding through in hot weather, the seal coat vendor recommended using an alternative product that costs more but is less prone to bleed-through and tar splatter.
“We’re pleased with this new product and think this adjustment will help us get the tar splatter issue under control,” Rutledge said. “Bleed through may still be an issue in very hot weather, but we’re already seeing signs that this will be an improvement.”
Seal coating is expected to be done in late August on the east side.
“Sometimes a late summer application also causes problems because the pea gravel doesn’t adhere as well in cooler temperatures,” he said. “But this new product is expected to be better for this, as well.”
Rutledge said the maintenance staff now is raking the three beaches twice a week to remove goose manure and debris.
“Our beach grooming equipment does a good job of picking up these items, while also aerating the sand. It’s not perfect, but doing this twice a week, rather than just once a week, is making a difference,” he said.
Dead fish are being found in some areas of the lake, attributed to blue-green algae. Rutledge said the LPA continues to monitor blue-green algae in the lake.
“Dry weather and clear water have created ideal conditions for a ‘bloom’ of blue-green algae,” he said. “This has happened earlier than normal, and it’s happening across Iowa, not just at Lake Panorama.”
Rutledge said the LPA will continue to test for microcystin concentrations in blue-green algae blooms. Tests are conducted weekly and LPA will issue notices for any swimming advisories that are warranted. He encouraged the use of common sense, such as keeping dogs from drinking lake water in areas of heavy bloom. If conditions look scummy or the water appears like paint, swimming and water recreation should be avoided.
The number of boat stickers sold to members each year is something the LPA board and staff tracks.
“We don’t want to see a substantial increase in boat stickers annually because of boat density concerns,” Rutledge said. “We need to protect the lake space for the safe enjoyment of our members.”
Through July, there were 1,332 permits for boats with motors over 10 horsepower, compared to 1,298 in 2020. The number of jet skis was down eight, with the number of small fishing boats unchanged from 2020. Boat stickers for kayaks and similar low-impact vessels increased from 1,097 in 2020 to 1,134 this year.
Deer hunting rules for this fall will remain the same. Last year 116 non-antlered deer were harvested by 90 hunters. Rutledge said of those hunters, about three-fourths were LPA members and the remaining were guests.
“This program is working really well at keeping the deer population at Lake Panorama in balance,” he said.
New buoys that have improved readability and visibility are receiving good feedback from LPA members. Rutledge said the LPA spent $10,000 this year on taller buoys and new stickers for existing buoys, and he expects to transition to the taller buoys throughout the lake in the future.
Rutledge said Todd Hyde, a member of the LPA water safety committee, volunteered his time to create a 10-minute safety video.
“It’s really good, Todd and others involved did an outstanding job. I suggest all LPA members view the video, and ask guests who will be using their boats or jet skis to watch it before handing over the keys,” he said. (See sidebar for more details.)
The LPA water department has plugged and abandoned the two Dakota wells located at the Guthrie County airport, and left that property. Final reports to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources regarding the upgrades to the water plant have been submitted, and the plant is functioning well.
“The quality of the water our customers is receiving is much better than it was on our old system, and we’re getting good comments,” Rutledge said. “Those who have not yet adjusted their water softener settings can save some money by doing so.”
Rutledge said the Lake Panorama dam is scheduled for its five-year exam in 2022. Some earth work will be done this fall between the concrete spillway and the auxiliary spillway, where water can go during a flood.
“This will create a well-defined separation between the two spillways, to ensure water going over the emergency spillway doesn’t impact the concrete spillway,” he said.
Turning to RIZ, Rutledge reported the 2021 dredging program is going well. RIZ funding is being used to riprap the west side of the Burchfield stream and create a “bench” that will allow an excavator to dredge sediment in that area.
RIZ also is financing some erosion repair work along the road near the county basin, and a new fuel tank and cold storage shed at the dredge dock. Plans to raise the sides of the CIPCO sediment basin are in the works.
At Lake Panorama National, Rutledge said the golf side of the business is doing well. The food and beverage side is more of a challenge, because of the many job openings for servers and kitchen support.
“We have some really talented people on board now, but we’re still short-staffed,” he said. “We’re concerned about burning out our good employees, which is why the LPN restaurant continues to be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.”
A contractor has been hired to build a wall along the north end of the pond on LPN’s fifth hole, with work planned for this fall. The approach area between the green and the pond has been deteriorating. It’s believed building a vertical wall will be more effective than the usual rock riprap. The hole may be out-of-play for a couple of weeks as this work is done.
Rutledge said emerald ash borers have reached the area, and LPA soon will need to budget for the removal of dead ash trees. Some success has been shown with a chemical treatment done every two years by a certified specialist. He said the LPA chose to have about 100 trees in “critical locations” treated.
“We’ll probably lose about 400 ash trees located on the two golf courses, three beaches and the marina area,” Rutledge said. “That will be more than our staff can handle, so we’ll contract with an outside vendor to remove the dead trees. We believe the cost to remove trees could be substantial and will do our best to absorb this into our budget in phases.”
The next GM coffee will be Thursday, Sept. 2, beginning at 10:30 a.m., at the Lake Panorama National conference center.

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S IN PANORA IN SEPTEMBER 
Fundraising events are held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide.

Lakeside
Posted 8/10/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times

For the first time, the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be held in Panora. These fundraising events are held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide and constitute the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.
One in three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. More than six million Americans are living with the disease. In 2021, Alzheimer’s cost the United States $355 billion, a number that is projected to rise to more than $1.1 trillion in 2050.
There are 18 walks scheduled in Iowa this fall, with Panora being the smallest town to host one. Others are in cities such as Ames, Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs, Des Moines, Fort Dodge, Iowa City, Mason City, Ottumwa, Sioux City, Spencer and more.
The walk is Saturday, Sept. 11. It begins at the Michael Mills Memorial Park at Southeast 5th Street in Panora and is titled the Raccoon River Valley Walk. Registration begins at 8 a.m. with a special ceremony at 9 a.m. The opening ceremony will immediately be followed by the 2-mile walk.
On Aug. 1, there were nine teams with 34 participants registered for the Raccoon River Valley Walk. A fundraising goal of $12,500 has been set for this event, and nearly half of that had been raised by Aug. 1.
Edwards Jones is a national presenting sponsor of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Dave Grove, an Edward Jones financial advisor based in Panora, and Melissa Loest, an Edward Jones financial advisor in Guthrie Center, were instrumental in getting the local walk scheduled.
“Alzheimer’s is a disease that affects almost every family,” says Grove. “We lost my grandmother, Kay, to Alzheimer’s in early 2019, and my family will be walking in her memory as Team Kay Grove. The walk is a great opportunity to raise up families who are impacted by the disease, and we look forward to the first survivor.”
Grove says even though the Iowa/Iowa State football game is Sept. 11 at 3:30 p.m., he hopes those planning to head to Ames for the game still will participate in the morning walk.
“I can’t think of a better way to start a football Saturday than by coming out and helping make the world a better place,” he says.
In addition to Edward Jones, the Lakeside Village in Panora and the New Homestead in Guthrie Center have been key supporters.
“Lakeside has always participated in the Des Moines walk, but this year we are honored to support an issue so close to hearts right here in Panora,” says Amanda Creen, Lakeside’s director. “We are working with the Alzheimer’s Association of Central Iowa to encourage local businesses and community members to sign up to walk by starting a team.” Or, Creen says those interested can join The Lakeside Village team at https://bndfr.com/Qr4g3.
The New Homestead also has been a key supporter of the walk, both financially and with their time. Grove says former employee Nancy Wells and current manager Mel Borgeson have volunteered countless hours to prepare and organize the event. Jaime Waddle of Panora Telco also has been a key force in the planning.
While there is no fee to register for the walk, all participants are encouraged to raise funds that allow the Alzheimer’s Association to provide 24/7 care and support and advance research toward methods of prevention, treatment and, ultimately, a cure. The Alzheimer’s Association is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. All donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Every registered participant who achieves the fundraising minimum of $100 will receive an official Walk to End Alzheimer’s T-shirt via USPS. To receive a shirt in time for the walk, participants must raise the T-shirt minimum at least four weeks prior to the event.
Anyone interested in volunteering to help with the Sept. 11 walk, or who would like to start a team, join an existing team, or make a donation, can get more information and register online at https://act.alz.org and enter the Panora zip code of 50216. Or contact Natalie Rork, 515-512-9101, narork@alz.org.

WALKING ACROSS AMERICA 
Army vet stops at Lake Panorama. 

Posted 8/10/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times

A chance meeting in California in 2017 between two U.S. Army veterans led to one visiting the other at Lake Panorama for three nights in July. But this second meeting wasn’t by chance; it was part of a much larger story.
Alex Seling is a U.S. Army veteran whose home is in California. He served as a combat medic with the 25th Infantry Division, 2-27 Wolfhounds and deployed to Iraq in 2008.
“For years after leaving the military, I struggled with severe depression, anxiety and insomnia, eventually leading to serious suicidal thoughts,” Seling says. “In 2017, I’d finally had enough suffering, so I decided to do something different that would force me to grow and transform into a healthier, happier person.”
That “something different” was to hike the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, from Mexico to Canada over a period of seven months. It was outside a general store in Kennedy Meadows, which is known as the gateway to the Sierra Nevada, that he talked with Jillian Ortner, who now lives at Lake Panorama. Ortner grew up in California and was in the area with family members.
“We grab ice cream there when we take a day to be in Kennedy Meadows,” she says. “I saw a few hikers, restocking and resting, and I asked what they were doing. Alex gave me his card, explained why he was hiking, and was on his way. I thought it was a very cool thing he was doing, and I’ve followed him on Instagram ever since.”
Ortner also is an Army veteran, serving four years in Louisiana, Kuwait, Germany and Iraq, where she was stationed for the initial invasion. She empathized with some of the feelings Seling expressed about feeling lost and unsettled after her Army discharge.
Seling says hiking the Pacific Crest Trail ended up being much more than he expected.
“It brought me more joy and fulfillment than anything I had ever done in my life,” he says. “The journey tested me constantly and forced me to grow as a person in order to break through new challenges.”
Once back home, Seling says he handled challenges much differently than he had before his journey.
“I now had the courage and confidence to face challenges head on,” he says. “Instead of feeling stuck and hopeless, I fought for better outcomes and followed through making important changes and difficult decisions.”
Seling started a job that paid well and he enjoyed.
“I found I was much happier, loving, and accepting of people and new situations. I had more joy in my life,” he says.
Three years after returning from his hike of the Pacific Crest Trail, Seling says he felt called to take on an even greater challenge, hiking across the United States on the American Discovery Trail (ADT).
“Knowing the positive effects this type of adventure can have on a person, I decided to dedicate this hike to raise funds for other veterans to go on similar long-distance adventures,” he says. “I know from experience that, for many veterans living on the brink of suicide, embarking on a long-distance adventure could transform their lives.”
Thus was born “Alex’s Coast to Coast Hike for Veteran Suicide Prevention.” He started in late December 2020 on a beach in Delaware. That was followed by difficult winter weather in West Virginia, where he used snowshoes to walk through knee-deep snow and sometimes across snow drifts 6 to 8 feet tall.
“Ohio was tough, as there was a lot more wilderness, and the trail was really overgrown,” he says. Next was Indiana and Illinois, before crossing the Mississippi River into Iowa at Davenport June 9. He soon became ill and spent more than a week in a hotel in Muscatine, recovering and resting.
“When I saw on Instagram he was hiking the American Discovery Trail, I reached out,” says Ortner. Since Seling is hiking the northern route of the trail, she knew he would be going through Iowa and close to Lake Panorama. She offered housing and food for the stretch of trail in the Guthrie County area.
The ADT is a series of much shorter trails, many of them rails to trails, especially in Iowa. That means Seling didn’t hike a straight line across the state. From Davenport, he worked his way north to Waterloo, before heading back south to Des Moines. That’s where he got on the Raccoon River Valley Trail.
Ortner picked him up south of Yale late in the day on July 7. After an overnight stay with her and her family, she delivered him back to the same spot the next morning. That evening, she picked him up near Coon Rapids and returned him to the trail there the morning of July 9. She picked him up again that evening, and once again returned him to the trail the next morning, about 10 miles east of Audubon. Seling crossed into Nebraska July 19.
In an interview at the Ortner home July 8, Seling reflected on his time so far in Iowa.
“There is a big bike culture here, which means Iowa has a lot of nice, paved trails,” he said. “And I’ve learned Iowa is hillier and more scenic than both Illinois and Indiana.”
Seling carries a small tent, backpack and a ukulele bass he enjoys playing in the evening. He started out cooking meals as he camped along the trail but found it was easier to rely on bagels with tuna, protein bars, and food picked up at convenience stores. Occasionally, he treats himself to a restaurant meal.
Sometime in November, Seling’s 4,800-mile trek will end in Pt. Reyes National Seashore in California. Between Iowa and there, he will walk through Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, Nevada and California. When he first started, he was walking 12-15 miles a day, but now tries to average 20-25 miles. Seling says this pace is necessary to get him through mountain passes to the west before winter weather gets too bad.
His website is www.alexanderseling.com. That’s where information about the two nonprofits he is raising money for can be found and donations made. Eighty percent of all donations go to Warrior Expeditions, which specializes in long-distance adventures for veterans.
“Their programs are perfect for those who are new to this type of adventure, as they outfit veterans with everything they need to embark on long-distance hiking, cycling, or kayaking adventures,” Seling says. “They provide top-of-the-line gear, orientation and training, a monthly allowance, and coordinated assistance with local supporters.”
The remaining 20 percent goes to Mission 22, a nonprofit that helps veterans in many different ways, such as comprehensive health programs, fitness, martial arts, outdoor recreation, community and other creative methods.
While Seling spent a year saving money for this trip, contributions to help pay for his personal expenses also are welcome. Some donors provide regular support and are rewarded with early access to his videos, adventure journals and photos.
In addition to his website, it’s easy to track Seling’s hike across America on social media, where he has a presence on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

OUT & ABOUT:
Beach Ball
The Beach Ball event, hosted by Friends of Lake Panorama, was held at Lake Panorama National Resort on July 30.

42 GOLFERS PARTICIPATE IN 2021 LPN JUNIOR GOLF SCHOOL
Participants learned full swing, pitching, chipping and putting fundamentals along with golf etiquette and rules of golf. 

Posted 8/10/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times 

A total of 42 young golfers participated in the 2021 Lake Panorama National Junior Golf School. Two sessions with four weeks each were offered in June and July with a final event held at Panorama West. There the juniors played a few holes before being treated to a pizza party and gift bag. Young people ages 5 to 17 are eligible to attend the annual school.
The juniors learn full swing, pitching, chipping and putting fundamentals along with golf etiquette and rules of golf. Participants are divided into age groups and rotate between the putting green, chipping area and driving range. At the end of the hour, the juniors head to Spikes to choose a free drink.
Rob Riggins, LPN head golf professional, and Michael Kleinwolterink, LPN pro shop manager, led the golf school. Assisting were several past and current players from the Panorama High School boys golf team and other LPN staff. David Van Ahn, who retired this spring after coaching the Panorama boys golf team for several years, also volunteered his time for the junior golfers.
The Junior School has two sponsors that have supported the school for many years — the Lake Panorama Association and Guthrie County State Bank. Sponsor funds made it possible to give each junior golfer a gift bag on the final day of each four-week session, filled with a $15 LPN gift card, a free round of golf at Panorama West, three sleeves of golf balls and a bag of golf tees. 

LPN WOMEN’S LEAGUE RAISES $7,000 FOR TORI’S ANGELS 
Foundation provides financial support to Iowa children with life-threatening medical challenges. 

Toriridgley
Posted 8/10/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times 

On July 15, the usual Lake Panorama National women’s league night turned into a Rally for Tori’s Angels. The result was a donation of $7,104 being presented to the Tori’s Angels Foundation, which provides financial support to Iowa children with life-threatening medical challenges.
This is the fifth year for this event. The evening included a nine-hole, four-gal best-shot tournament, with 66 players participating in games and fundraising events on the golf course.
The winning team of Linda Reis, Carla Fitzgerald and Kathy DeLucca ended their round with a 29. Pin events were closest to the beach on the first hole, won by Carrie Mary; hitting inside the halo on the third hole — Katelyn Brelsford, Carla Fitzgerald and Laura Tofteland, and closest to the pin on the third hole, Laura Tofteland.
The foundation’s namesake is Tori Heckman of Panora, who had life-saving heart surgery in 2011 at the age of 5 after several other heart surgeries. Ten years later, the foundation has provided assistance to 83 children, with four new applications pending.
After golf there was a silent auction and a presentation by Bill Ridgley, president and CEO of the Tori’s Angels Foundation.
“Our biggest challenge is there are more children who need help than we can support,” he said. “We’re really just scratching the surface of the needs families have when a child has a serious illness.”
He said about 60 percent of sponsored children are battling cancer. Others have heart or lung issues, or a variety of other serious health concerns. Sponsorship of a child can begin at birth, with sponsored children aging out at 19.
Ridgley said the foundation’s budget for the current year is $340,000.
“If insurance doesn’t cover something needed, we do,” he said. “Sometimes children need to go to another state for treatment, so we pay for airfare and hotel rooms for their parents to get to and from as needed.”
Ridgley stressed all money donated to the foundation goes to supporting sponsored children and their families. No foundation expenses are taken from donations; instead, members of the foundation board cover all operating expenses.
The work of the foundation is done by volunteers. Kathy Klinge, who lives at Lake Panorama, was introduced as the Tori’s Angels volunteer coordinator. Ridgley said the foundation has about 40 volunteers scattered around Iowa, but they could use more, especially in Guthrie County.
Ridgley closed by thanking the LPN women’s league for organizing the fundraiser and those in attendance who helped make it a success.
“Our kids say thanks, too,” he said.
A member of the LPN women’s league, Lorrie Motsick, said the granddaughter of one of her cousins is receiving support from Tori’s Angels. Motsick said she recently held a garage sale, donated the $1,000 proceeds to the foundation, and encouraged others to look for ways to support the foundation.
Jordan Douglass, a recent Panorama high school graduate and member of the LPN women’s league, provided entertainment with her award-winning dance routine.
The LPN women’s league board got the fundraising ball rolling with a $500 donation. Money raised at the July 15 event included the purchase of donated silent auction items, activities on the golf course, the sale of raffle tickets for six centerpieces, the sale of Tori’s Angels T-shirts, and direct donations.
Becky Rolfes chaired the event planning committee, which also included Nancy Clawson, Mare Langel, Sherri Miller, Carol Redshaw and Julie Tibbles.
“Over the years, I’ve been involved in many fundraisers for different causes,” said Rolfes. “This one, for children with life threatening illnesses, seems to bring out the most generous spirit in everyone. One-hundred-percent of all costs incurred, facilities used and items sold were freely given. This allows us to donate all of the funds raised to Tori’s Angels.” 
Donations can be mailed at any time to Tori’s Angels Foundation, 4677 Panorama Drive, Panora, Iowa, 50216. Online donation options are available on the foundation’s website, www.torisangels.org, and its Facebook page. To request an application for support for a child, contact Ridgley at bridgley@netins.net or 712-249-6423.

BENCHES AT BEACHES 
Memorials can be purchased for a loved one or by those who want to leave their mark on Lake Panorama while they are alive.

Lpt aug 2021 (16)
Posted 8/10/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times

A survey conducted by Friends of Lake Panorama in April 2019 showed LPA member interest in additional amenities at Lake Panorama’s beaches. This led to Friends promoting high quality benches at beaches to some families looking for options to memorialize a loved one.
In 2019, a metal bench on a concrete slab was installed at Boulder Beach, in memory of Kim Lubeck. This spring, a metal swinging bench was installed at the Boulder Beach playground, in memory of Bill Priestley. Another metal swinging bench was installed at Sunset Beach, on concrete, in memory of Lois and Dean Porath. A stationary metal bench also was installed on concrete at Sunset Beach, in memory of Courtney Allen Sr.
LPA and Friends personnel have worked together to identify locations at all three beaches for these heavier metal benches, either stationary or swinging, with final placement determined prior to installation. Each would be placed on a concrete pad. For instance, the area behind the new Boulder Beach wall is suitable for four or five concrete pads with a bench on each.
The Friends board has endorsed this “Benches at Beaches” project. The current cost of either a stationary or swinging bench on a concrete slab is $3,200. In keeping with the colors used for new playground equipment, bench colors available are blue and green.
These benches can be purchased either as a memorial for a loved one, or by those who want to leave their mark on Lake Panorama while they are alive. The benches include signs that can be engraved with up to four lines of text.
Friends will not be conducting a general fundraising campaign. Instead, this Benches at Beaches project targets individuals, couples and families interested in sponsoring a single bench. The goal is to find sponsors for several benches before installation would occur, which would mean a cost savings on concrete pours and possibly reduced shipping costs.
Those interested in discussing the sponsorship of a bench at one of Lake Panorama’s three beaches can email staff@friendsoflakepanorama.org, or call Susan Thompson at 515-240-6536.

WITHOUT THE DAM, THERE WOULDN’T BE A LAKE   
History and statistics about the Lake Panorama dam

Mikegliem
Posted 8/10/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times 

The 1,250-foot earthen dam on the Middle Raccoon River doesn’t get a lot of attention. But without it, there wouldn’t be a Lake Panorama. This month, Mike Gliem, who is the water treatment and dam operations supervisor for the Lake Panorama Association, answers questions about both the dam and the LPA water treatment system.

Q. Give us some history and statistics about the Lake Panorama dam. 
A. Just like the Lake Panorama Association, the dam is now 51 years old. The Leonard Nelson Construction Co. of Red Oak was awarded the contract in the spring of 1969 to build the dam at a cost of $1.115 million. Construction began April 25, 1969, with completion expected in three months. Heavy rains stopped construction in June, and it was more than a year later, on June 8, 1970, before the dam gate was closed and Lake Panorama began to fill.
The dam is made up of an 850-foot-long earth embankment, a 100-foot-long gate, and a 300-foot-long emergency spillway. The earth embankment is 400 feet wide at its base and 20 feet wide on top.
The steel gate, which is raised and lowered using a hydraulic control system, is about 10 feet high. Below the gate is a reinforced concrete chute spillway 100 feet wide and 290 feet long. It ends in a St. Anthony Falls Stilling Basin, which is a series of raised concrete blocks in an area 33 feet long that dissipates energy from the flowing water to protect the riverbed from erosion.
The emergency spillway on the east side is a grassed surface spillway. Water has gone over it twice, in 1986 and again in 1993.
On the west side, there is a 30-inch diameter concrete pipe under the earthen dam for controlling the lake level during periods of low river flows. This also is used when water needs to be diverted away from the dam gate for inspections and repairs.
George Ohm, who was on the original construction crew, managed the dam for more than 30 years. I took over in 2000, after training with George for three years. I started with the LPA in 1993 doing water patrol part-time, then moved to a full-time position in security and trained with George.

Q. Some work is planned at the dam for this year, correct?  
A. I do two informal inspections of the dam each year, and we have a formal inspection done every five years by our engineering firm and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). During some of the recent inspections, it has been noted that in the northeast embankment between the main spillway and the emergency spillway, the slopes have begun to sluff off from weather and deterioration of the shale.
This makes it very hard to maintain this area. This fall, we will be reshaping the berm to a more manageable slope and adding some tile along the wall of the spillway. This project is very similar to the project we did on the lower portion of the berm when new riprap was added below the spillway in 2008.

Q. The LPA notified members the lake was about 3 inches low earlier this summer. Where are we now, and what do you expect for the rest of the year? 
A. What is considered “normal” for Lake Panorama is an elevation of 1,045.5 feet above sea level. That puts the water surface 24 feet below the top of the dam. Our goal is to keep the water as close to that level as possible.
The rains we got July 12 filled the lake back up, but that has not lasted long. We are down 3 inches again, with hot temperatures and no rain in the extended forecast. Late July, August and going into the fall is traditionally a drier time of the year.
If we stay dry, I expect the same as last year, which was about 3 to 4 inches lower than normal going into the winter. The DNR requires Lake Panorama to maintain a minimum outflow of 20 cubic feet per second, unless the inflow is less than that. In that case, we can match our outflow to the inflow.
Q. Let’s turn our attention to the water treatment aspect of your job. The LPA membership seems pleased with the recent upgrades to the water plant.
A. The latest upgrades at the water plant included a new Jordan well, which allowed us to discontinue the use of our two old Dakota wells, so we no longer have iron and manganese issues. We also added two reverse osmosis (RO) units to treat the water from the two Jordan wells that now provide all of our water; one Jordan well was built with the last upgrade. We also installed a lift station and bored in 3 miles of pipe for our RO concentrate outfall line.
The RO system has made a great improvement in water quality. LPA water previously had a hardness of 615 parts per million or 36 grains per gallon. The new system is providing water that is 120 parts per million or 7 grains per gallon. The DNR completed their final walk-through inspection June 4 and the project passed without any concerns.

Q. There have been some additional improvements to the water distribution system in recent years, with more planned. Talk about that. 
A. The lake is 50 years old and so are a lot of the valves and fire hydrants. We have been replacing valves that don’t work and replacing old “blow off” hydrants with fire hydrants. A lot of the cul-de-sacs didn’t have any way to flush the main at the end so we have added blow off hydrants to those.
Water mains have had to be added, or replaced with larger pipe, and sometimes rerouted to make them more functional. Plus new mains have been added as Lake Panorama continues to grow. We had to replace a river crossing in Burchfield Cove in 2020, which opened our eyes to the remaining three river crossings we have in the water distribution system. Looking ahead, we are planning a booster station project to help improve water pressure in the Chimra Road area. It may not seem like it, but there is a method to our madness.
On behalf of the LPA staff, I want to thank the LPA membership for their strong support of both the dam and water departments. We work hard to ensure these critical infrastructure items are well maintained and the membership’s consistent support makes that possible.

COVE CAT

Fullsizeoutput 1b6f
Posted 8/10/2021
By Cheryl Temple
Lake Panorama Times

Frankie Jo
Owners:  Dan and Joan McKinney


Frankie Jo enjoys life at Lake Panorama with Dan and Joan McKinney. The McKinneys, along with Danielle and Emma Johnston, found her as a stray while walking on the beach at St. George Island, Florida. She stole everyone’s hearts with her sweet personality, and they quickly decided that she should become a member of the family. After her first airplane ride, Frankie Jo found her forever home at the lake. Frankie got her name from the area in which she was found, Franklin County. Frankie enjoys people, toys and lots of attention.

LAKE DOG

Fullsizeoutput 1b13
Posted 8/10/2021
By Cheryl Temple
Lake Panorama Times

Gable “Gabe” Tofteland
15-year-old Beagle
Owners: Barry and Laura Tofteland


Gabe enjoys boat rides where he can be at the front of the boat — because it has the best sniffs. He’s a beagle, and his nose takes over. In his younger years, Gabe enjoyed exploring on land and chasing wildlife. As much as Gabe loves living at the lake, he hates being wet, so no swimming. Gabe’s owners, Barry and Laura, have lived on the lake for 15 years. They enjoy entertaining, spending time on the lake and golfing. They say Panora living is the best.

Trish Hart’s nature photo of the month

Orioletrishhart
Posted 8/10/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times 

Trish Hart is a local photographer who specializes in Lake Panorama wildlife. Many of Hart’s photos are of birds, which she captures digitally as they sit on feeders on the deck of her home. This month’s photo is a male Baltimore Oriole, enjoying a beak full of grape jelly.
These brightly colored songbirds share the colors of the coat of arms of 17th-century Lord Baltimore and received their name because of this. Baltimore Orioles are common in open woods in spring and summer. Their bag-shaped hanging nests are woven of plant fibers. They spend their winters in the tropics.
Baltimore Orioles seek out ripe fruit. Special oriole feeders make it easy to offer cut oranges, grape jelly or a sugar water supplement that is similar to the flower nectar these birds like. They arrive in Iowa in the spring and are easily attracted to feeders when they get here.
It seems the birds disappear from feeders as quickly as they arrived. This is because while they are nesting and feeding young, their diet changes to add protein for the young birds. That means they hunt insects instead of visiting feeders.
Hart offers custom prints of her photos on canvas, paper, metal and glass. For more information, visit NaturesCanvasPhotos on Facebook.

DUREE'S PHOTOGRAPHY HOBBY HAS WORLD WAR II ROOTS

Posted 7/6/2021
Lake Panorama resident says photography is therapeutic for him.

By Susan Thompson 

Lake Panorama Times 

Chris and Brenda Duree moved from Grinnell to Lake Panorama in the fall of 2018. Brenda had grown up in the area, graduating from Adair-Casey in 1976. Her son, Brandon Monaghan, had recently moved to Lake Panorama, and they enjoyed the area.
Chris was retiring after a long career in education, and Brenda’s job allowed her to work from home much of the time. They found a condo in the Promontory Point development and settled in.
“We don’t need to go on vacations,” Brenda says. “We can do all the things we love right here — biking, kayaking, boating, golfing.”
Besides those activities, Chris adds a few other hobbies to his list — construction, cooking, baking, fishing, hunting, hiking.
“I’ve always been interested in lots of things. The word ‘bored’ has never been in my vocabulary. My problem is narrowing things down.”
The hobby he’s had the longest is photography.
“It’s really therapeutic for me,” he says. “Photographers see things others don’t see. There is so much beauty and color in nature. My favorite subjects are wildlife, flowers and plants. I spend a lot of time outdoors, and enjoy taking pictures to record the beauty that’s around us.”
Chris was raised in Ottumwa, where photography was a part of his life from a young age. His father, Bill, was a bombardier in World War II.
“He sat out in that glass nose cone at the front of a B-17 bomber, determining when to drop a bomb. He also had the responsibility of taking pictures as the bomb dropped,” Chris says.
When the bomber planes returned to the airbase — if they made it back, Chris interjects as he tells his father’s story — bombardiers would process their film and judge how effective they had been at hitting their intended targets.
That’s where Bill Duree developed his love of photography. When he was discharged from the military, he attended a one-year program at the New York Institute of Photography. Then he returned home to Ottumwa and opened the Duree Photography Studio, later adding a second studio in Fairfield.
“I grew up in the darkroom,” Chris says. “My father took mostly portraits, such as weddings, school graduations and families. He talked about how difficult it is to get the perfect shot.”
Chris has three daughters and Brenda has two sons. Their blended family includes 10 grandchildren, ranging in age from a 1-year-old to almost 16.
“Everyone enjoys getting together, which we try to do at least twice each year,” Chris says. “When that happens, I take family pictures, and have to work to make sure everyone is smiling and looking at the camera. The kids know I have to get a good photo before the gifts are opened or the Easter egg hunt starts.”
After high school, Chris earned a bachelor’s degree in education at the University of Iowa. He worked as a carpenter in construction to put himself through college. When he graduated, he took some time to learn more about construction and built homes for several years in Iowa City and Ottumwa for two different companies.
New home construction slowed in the 1980s recession, so he turned to a teaching career. He taught and coached for seven years before earning a master’s degree in administration at Drake. That took him to a high school principal’s job in Creston. Later Chris was hired as the vice president of academic affairs at Southwestern Community College in Creston, where he worked for nine years. He left in 2006 to complete a doctorate in education at Iowa State University.
Brenda attended Iowa Lakes Community College to begin her career as a registered nurse. She later earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree at the University of Iowa and a master’s and doctorate degree in education at Iowa State University. While pursuing these degrees, she also was a practicing RN for more than 20 years, mostly in emergency rooms in Mason City and Des Moines.
Brenda enjoyed mentoring nursing students who were gaining practical experience at facilities where she worked, so she decided to try teaching. She was hired at Southwestern Community College to teach nursing full-time. She attended graduate school and continued to work as a nurse on weekends at Methodist emergency room in Des Moines. The couple met at Southwestern Community College.
More career moves were in the works for both of them. Chris was named chancellor at Iowa Valley Community College District, which has locations in Marshalltown, Iowa Falls and Grinnell. He served in that position for 10 years.
Brenda taught nursing and served as the nursing director at Iowa Valley until she was recruited to William Penn in Oskaloosa to develop a new nursing program. The couple moved to Grinnell to split their commutes.
After Chris retired in July 2019 and the couple was settled at Lake Panorama, he took on a new challenge. He works part-time as an assistant professor of practice in the Iowa State University School of Education, mentoring master’s and doctoral students in educational leadership.
Brenda works full-time for the University of Iowa as faculty in the College of Nursing. She teaches both undergraduate and graduate classes, mostly online. She also manages the student preceptorship program for the southwest quarter of Iowa, which places student nurses in a community health or public health setting for one semester.
While Brenda works full-time, Chris keeps his camera nearby. He currently uses a 35 mm Nikon with a telephoto lens.
“It’s really versatile and has more technology built into it than I have figured out,” he jokes.
Most of Chris’ photos are taken outdoors and shared digitally with friends and family, and an occasional submission to Lake Panorama Times, or a posting on social media.
“I like to share my work with people to illustrate the scenes of nature we have throughout the year within a 5-to-10-mile radius around the lake, and often times right in people’s backyards,” Chris says.
The couple says they are loving life at Lake Panorama and enjoy their view overlooking the pond on the fifth hole of Lake Panorama National and a piece of the lake they can see from their deck.

FIRST ORIENTATION SESSION HELD FOR NEW LPA MEMBERS

Julie
Posted 7/6/2021
Topics covered included the Lake Panorama Association, Lake Panorama National, amenities available to LPA members, and resources for learning more and getting involved. 

By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times

The first “Lake Panorama 101” session was held June 18, with more than 30 people in attendance. The idea for Lake Panorama 101 came from a group of volunteers who believed there should be an organized, face-to-face opportunity to welcome new property owners to Lake Panorama.
Topics covered during the first 45-minute session were the Lake Panorama Association, Lake Panorama National, amenities available to LPA members, and resources for learning more and getting involved.
The main presentation was given by Julie Wykoff, a Lake Panorama 101 volunteer. Fifteen minutes of audience questions followed.
One audience question was about how the LPA Security Department operates. John Rutledge, LPA general manager, explained this private security department includes several retired law enforcement officers with a breadth of experience.
“They’re here to protect the safety of our members and guests,” Rutledge said. “Both land patrol and water patrol officers work to make sure the LPA rules are understood and followed.”
He said the LPA has a good relationship with the Guthrie County Sheriff’s Department, which is called in for assistance as needed. LPA Security is available by phone 24/7. Rutledge encourages LPA members to add the LPA Security number, which is 641-757-9035, to their cell phones. In an emergency, LPA members also should dial 911, or call the sheriff’s office directly at 641-747-2214.
During her presentation, Wykoff discussed the Panorama Prompt newsletter, which is distributed each Wednesday via email. She said it is the official avenue for the LPA to communicate with its members and often features updates on current and new rules and regulations members need to know.
To sign up for the Panorama Prompt, Danna Krambeer, LPA accountant, said members need to go to the LPA website and request a login. Once that has been done, she automatically signs members up for the weekly Prompt.
Krambeer said once one person in the membership has established an account, a second person’s email can be added to the same account, if desired.
Wykoff contrasted the Lake Panorama Association website with Lake Panorama Nextdoor, which is a social media site limited to the 50216 area code. She said Nextdoor is best suited to sharing photos, publicizing local events, getting advice on contractors and vendors, and buying and selling items.
“If you have questions about an LPA rule or amenity, the best place to go is the LPA website and use the search feature to find the answer you need,” she said.
One attendee asked if there is a map that shows the correct name for the larger coves on Lake Panorama. Rutledge responded that would be possible to provide, and the next week’s Panorama Prompt provided a link to such a map. Find it here: http://lakepanorama.org/document_view.asp?id=439
Special invitations were mailed to new property owners who purchased at Lake Panorama within the last 18 months. However, the Lake Panorama 101 sessions aren’t limited to those who receive invitations, or who are new property owners. Any LPA member interested is welcome to attend.
Such was the case with former Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad, who attended the June 18 Lake Panorama 101 session. He and his wife Christine have owned a home on Lake Panorama for eight years. He asked a question about how the Lake Panorama Rural Improvement Zone (RIZ) money is being spent.
Branstad was Iowa’s governor in 1997 when the first Iowa law allowing the creation of rural improvement zones related to private lake developments was passed, and he signed it into law. He also was governor in 2015 when needed updates were made to the Iowa code related to RIZ, and he also signed that piece of legislation into law.
At the time the Lake Panorama RIZ was formed in 1997, it was estimated this could mean up to $75,000 a year coming back to Lake Panorama. Estimated revenue for the current fiscal year is $2.6 million.
Rutledge thanked Branstad for his long-time support of RIZ, then outlined dredging work that removes sediment coming into the lake from upstream, and upstream wetlands that keep sediment from reach the lake. Three wetlands have been installed to date, with two more in the planning stages.
Other questions asked and answered were related to shelter house rentals, road maintenance, and other topics. A handout distributed at the end of the session provided contact information on various groups, activities and volunteer opportunities.
The next Lake Panorama 101 session will be Saturday, Aug. 14, 10-11 a.m., in the dining room at the Lake Panorama National Conference Center. Refreshments will be available.
The book “Lake Panorama – The First 50 Years” also will be available at the Aug. 14 event. The LPA financed the book’s production, which was delivered to the LPA office July 19, 2019. Just over 1,000 books were printed, with less than 350 remaining in stock. The book costs $35.
The full-color, hardcover 112-page book includes both historic and contemporary photos. Book chapters describe six decades of planning and development. There are special topic chapters on Lake Panorama’s two golf courses, infrastructure and water quality efforts. Sidebar stories highlight various groups and activities such as the Lake Panorama ski team and Fin and Feather.
Those planning to attend the Aug. 14 Lake Panorama 101 session are asked to RSVP by calling the LPN front desk during daytime business hours at 641-755-2080. n

ON THE LAKE
A walk around Panora and a plan for the future

Shane summer 2021
Posted 7/6/2021
By Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher

Part of what makes living and playing at Lake Panorama so appealing is the fact that we are fortunate to have an attractive community next to the lake. Panora certainly isn’t Okoboji or even Clear Lake, but that’s OK for most property owners here who prefer less of the traffic congestion and party atmosphere. On the flip side, talk with lake residents at Sun Valley Lake or Diamondhead Lake, and you will certainly hear about how they miss having a city with real amenities. And rightfully so.
This leads me to the results of a recent report from an Iowa Downtown Resource Center Walk Around conducted in Panora. The report offers many observations and recommendations, stating that “Downtown Panora is enticing for visitors driving through town.” It says the sidewalks around the square are “well maintained,” and “attractive amenities such as plantings, lights, benches, and decorative sculptures enhance the pedestrian experience.”
It also says the downtown buildings and architecture are “unique with a combination of one, two and three-story buildings.”
The folks from the Iowa Downtown Resource Center say they find the inner square in downtown Panora especially interesting with the historic auditorium building, library, community center and city hall. They point out the green space, gazebo and stamped concrete area in the square as “an excellent event venue.” More on that later.
So what could make Panora even better, according to the report? They suggest more downtown business signage from a “visitor’s” point of view including “attractive entrance/welcome signage,” bike trail signage to Panora destinations, and in-town signage directing people to the historic business district, schools, library, etc.
The report also says a focus is needed on some of downtown Panora’s largest buildings that “need more than just a façade treatment.” It also suggests adding awnings to Panora’s downtown that can “provide color, vibrancy, and functionality.”
In regards to apartment living, the report recommends creating “active upper floors, especially with housing,” noting that “half of downtown Panora’s upper floors are occupied by apartments – some high quality and some substandard.”  It also suggests developing a “parking opportunities map” to identify current and potential parking spots for apartment dwellers.
The report recommends sweeping the vacant buildings, repairing broken glass, cleaning the windows and then placing “Business Opportunity” or “This Space would Make a Great Bakery” type signs in them.
Now back to the event venue space I mentioned previously. The report says Panora lacks “entertainment-based businesses and consistent events that would give residents more options for entertainment and enhance quality of life.” They recommend developing a “promotional series with a common theme, time, and location (in the existing event space around the gazebo).” They suggest starting small with activities that can draw 100-200 people like a local performer, a car show, an outdoor movie, a pet parade, food/beverage garden, etc.
And after all these recommendations are accomplished, they suggest a longer-term goal in improving “the rears of your downtown buildings” and potential parking areas.
There is no doubt that a look from the outside is helpful, and that’s exactly what this report offers, as well as some ideas on how to pay for some of it.
So what do you think? Do you agree with the recommendations? Have some of your own?  Think things are fine just the way they are? Shoot me an email and let me know your thoughts.
In the meantime, give thanks for what we have and be sure to support our local businesses.
Thanks for reading.

Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305

Armstrong retirement party July 16

Posted 7/6/2021
Jerry Armstrong, who was LPA’s security chief beginning in October 2016, retired March 26. In 1969, he was Lake Panorama’s first security officer for one year, before moving on to selling Lake Panorama lots, then 22 years traveling the country for Harper Brush.
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.
A retirement party honoring Armstrong is open to all and will be Friday, July 16, 3-6 p.m., in the banquet room at the LPN Conference Center. The room will continue to be available for guests who want to stay later.
Both hot and cold appetizers will be served, including veggies with ranch dip, soft pretzels with pepper jack cheese sauce, BBQ meatballs, spinach and artichoke dip with pita chips, and salsa and queso with chips. There will be cake and a cash bar. Iced tea, lemonade and coffee also will be available.
In retirement, Armstrong is playing more golf, fishing, and spending time with his wife Nancy and their four great-grandchildren. He also continues to be a member of the LPA security department, working some part-time shifts, both land and water patrol.

TWO ACES AT PANORAMA WEST

Posted 7/6/2021
Two golfers had holes-in-one within days of each other at the Panorama West golf course in mid-June. Sherry Miller aced the eighth hole on June 15 during the Tuesday morning women’s league. She used a driver for the 110-yard feat, which was witnessed by Karen Eby.
On June 18, Dick Sheets scored a hole-in-one on the fifth hole, which is 144 yards. This was witnessed by Garrett Young, the Panorama West golf superintendent who was waiting for Sheets to pass before he started to mow the green. This is Sheets’ fourth career hole-in-one.
Each year, those who get a hole-in-one at Panorama West have their name added to a sign in the pro shop and receive a handmade plaque in recognition of their achievement. 

MUSIC ON MAIN BASIN JULY 23 

Posted 7/6/2021
One of the few good things that came out of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 was several lakefront property owners at Lake Panorama hosting live music events from their back decks, yards or docks.
Two such events were scheduled for the Fourth of July weekend. A third has been set for Friday, July 23. A few residents of the Sunset Ridge Condo Association, which is on the main basin south of The Port, have joined together to host this event.
Mike Tiedeman of Des Moines will play guitar and sing for two hours, beginning at 8:45 p.m. Boaters are encouraged to anchor lakeside near the Sunset Ridge Condos. From land, the address is 5447 Chimra Road. 

PANORAMA DAYS 5K RUN/WALK AND KIDS WARRIOR RUN ITEMS NEEDED

Posted 7/6/2021
Reshape Fitness Studio will be hosting the Panorama Days 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, Aug. 7 at 8 a.m. There will also be a Kids Warrior Run, which will start at 9:15 a.m. Kids ages 10 years and younger will run obstacles on Main Street in Panora.
Donations are being accepted for the participants for the 5K Run/Walk. Items in need are Gatorade/Powerade, one-gallon water jugs for the two water stations provided during the race, bananas or other fruit, and granola bars for the participants after the race. The kids will receive popsicles/freezer pops after their event.
The Run/Walk had 64 participants in 2019. The goal for this year is 80-90.
Volunteers are also needed to help at registration from 7-7:45 a.m. @ Start Line and for water stations set up at The Port and the Historical Village.
Contact Trudy Hastings at 309-337-1579 or Sue Bump at 515-321-8521 with your donation by Friday, July 23. 

Panora Chamber welcomes new members

Posted 7/6/2021
The Panora Chamber of Commerce welcomes new members, Clear Mortgage – Chip Hansen and Carrie Hansen; BHHS First Realty – Rod Robson; Kozy Home – Shanna Jenkins; Rustic Goddess – Shay Derry; and Lake Panorama Pizza. A total of 11 new members have joined in 2021.
In other chamber news, volunteers are needed for the Chamber Information booth during Panorama Days, and nominations for Citizen of the Year will be available the first week of July.
The next chamber meeting is Monday, July 19 at Twin Vines. 

LPN LADIES LEAGUE ANNUAL 4-GAL TOURNAMENT HELD

Posted 7/6/2021
The June 24 morning downpour did not stop 144 women from showing up ready to compete in the LPN Ladies League Annual 4-Gal Tournament. This year’s annual tournament attracted 107 non-LPN members and 37 members to the course and is the largest fundraiser for the LPN Ladies League.
The theme this year was “Live Laugh Love Golf.” And from the players’ reviews, the tournament lived up to its tag line. As usual, the Panora community stepped up in support of the tournament with local businesses willingly providing products for the raffle. In addition, many private residents and league members donated their time and talents to help plan, decorate and provide in-demand raffle items. The LPN Ladies League is truly indebted to every volunteer and contributor.
In addition, the tournament would not be possible without these generous corporate donors:
Hole-In-One Sponsors: Guthrie County State Bank/GCSB Investment Center; Iowa Trust and Savings Bank-Panora
Birdie Sponsors: Lake Panorama Realty-Lee Howe, John McDermott, Dee Powell, Julie Wykoff, Realtors; Lake Panorama Association; Panora Telco; Sunset Realty
Par Sponsors: Farmers State Bank-Yale; Peoples Bank-Guthrie Center
The planning committee already is looking ahead to the next LPN Ladies League Annual 4-Gal Tournament, scheduled for June 23, 2022.

PWCF AWARDS $5,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS TO GUTHRIE COUNTY STUDENTS

Posted 7/6/2021
The Prairie Woodland Conservation Foundation (PWCF) proudly awarded 10 Guthrie County students funds to continue their education after high school. The Bennie F. Hall Prairie Woodland Conservation Foundation Scholarships, totaling $5000, were awarded to AC/GC senior, Jorja Hoover; Panorama seniors Wyatt Appleseth, Paige Cmelik, Ruby Hummel, Kinze Labbs, Lauren Soll and Shey Storesund; West Central Valley senior Sabrina Becker; graduating senior Kael Rutledge and college sophomore Brooke Halterman.
The Bennie F. Hall PWCF Scholarship Program aims to provide Guthrie County graduating seniors and existing college undergrads who show an interest in pursuing careers in conservation, agribusiness or a similar field with scholarship money to continue their education at a two or four-year college or vocational school. Each award recipient met the required academic criteria, completed and submitted an application for review and wrote a comprehensive essay about conservation in Guthrie County.
“The PWCF members were beyond impressed with the number of applicants this year, and the overall caliber of students who applied for this award,” mentioned PWCF Chair, Maggie Armstrong. “The foundation’s hope is that conservation continues to be a top priority in Guthrie County, and this scholarship program helps reinforce these efforts through its award recipients.”
The Bennie F. Hall Prairie Woodland Conservation Scholarship is awarded each spring and students in Guthrie County are encouraged to complete and submit an application. For more information about the scholarship, visit www.gccb.org or speak with your schools’ guidance counselor.

About the Bennie F. Hall Prairie Woodland Conservation Scholarship:
In 2001, long-time Guthrie County resident, Bennie Hall, left his estate to the Prairie Woodland Conservation Foundation for conservation purposes. Mr. Hall was an avid hunter and trapper and had a great respect for wildlife, habitat and conservation in general. The following year, The Prairie Woodland Conservation Foundation created a scholarship program in Mr. Hall’s memory. Each year, the PWCF awards funds to graduating high school seniors and college undergraduate students who qualify through the scholarship application process.

About the Prairie Woodland Conservation Foundation:
Established in 1986, the Prairie Woodland Conservation Foundation is a five-person board appointed by the Guthrie County Conservation Board and maintains a 501 C 3 Iowa non-profit corporation status. The general purpose of the PWCF is to request and accept gifts from people or organizations for the development and enhancement of environmental, educational and conservation projects in partnership with the Guthrie County Conservation Board. 

DATES SET FOR TWO ‘COFFEE WITH THE GM’ EVENTS

Posted 7/6/2021
The next coffee is scheduled for July 29.

By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times

Since April 2015, “Coffee with the GM” events have been held several times each year in an effort to improve communications between the Lake Panorama Association and LPA members.
Because of COVID-19 restrictions, none were held in 2020. Now that in-person meetings are possible, two coffees have been set.
John Rutledge, LPA general manager and LPN director of operations, invites LPA members to join him for coffee and other refreshments at these informal gatherings.
The next two coffees are scheduled for July 29 and Sept. 2. Both dates are on a Thursday. These will be at the Lake Panorama National conference center, begin at 10:30 a.m., and last about an hour.
At these coffees, Rutledge provides an update on current happenings and takes questions from members in attendance. A third coffee may be added later in the year.
If members have questions or items they would like covered about LPA policies or developments, they can email lpa@lakepanorama.org to give Rutledge an opportunity to prepare in advance. LPA members with questions specific to their own membership or property should call the LPA office during regular business hours at 641-755-2301.

Panora Citizen of the Year nominations now being accepted

Posted 7/6/2021
The Panora Chamber of Commerce has recognized an outstanding member of the Panora/Lake Panorama community since 1989. The year 2020 was the only year the recognition did not take place.

Criteria for Citizen of the Year:
• Any service performed for the betterment of Panora that the nominator deems worthy.
• No restrictions on the number of years a person can be nominated.
• Winners cannot be considered again for 10 years.
• Nominees must be a citizen of Panora or Lake Panorama.
• Nominees must be nominated in writing, signed by nominator.
• Paid city employees are eligible but their nomination must not be for their regular duties.
The following statement applies to all nominees: Anyone who works for the promotion and betterment of our community rather than excellence in profession or job. 
Nominations must be received by July 16, 2021.  Please mail nomination letters to the Panora Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 73, Panora, IA 50216.
The 2021 Citizen of the Year will be announced at Panorama Days, Saturday, Aug. 7, 2021.

Maytag’s Four-Cheese Mac with Fig-Balsamic Drizzle

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Posted 7/6/2021
By Cyd Koehn
Cyd’s Catering
515-208-2091
www.cateringbycyd.com 

Makes 6 servings.

For the macaroni and sauce:
1/2 pound dried elbow macaroni
1/4 cup unsalted butter
3 tablespoons flour
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
4 cups heavy cream
2 cups grated Maytag White Cheddar Cheese (8 ounces), divided
2 cups cubed Havarti cheese (8 ounces)
1/4 cup Maytag Blue Cheese (1 ounce)

For the panko topping:
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Fig-Balsamic Drizzle
2 tablespoons fig jam
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar reduction

Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 9 x 9 baking dish. Cook pasta in boiling salted water just until al dente (do not overcook). Drain and set aside.

2. Meanwhile, for the sauce, in a heavy 3-quart saucepan melt the 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and salt and pepper to taste. Cook and stir until a smooth paste forms, about 30 seconds (do not allow this mixture to brown). Slowly pour in the cream while stirring. Cook and stir until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Add 1 1/2 cups of the Maytag White Cheddar, the Havarti, and the Maytag Blue. Cook and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the cheese sauce to the cooked pasta; stir to coat evenly. Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish. Top with remaining 1/2 cup of Maytag White Cheddar.

3. For the panko topping, in a small bowl, combine the panko crumbs, melted butter, and the 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Sprinkle panko topping evenly over macaroni mixture. Bake about 20 minutes or until the mac-and-cheese is bubbling and the crumbs are golden.

4. For the Fig-Balsamic Drizzle, whisk together the fig jam and balsamic vinegar reduction. To serve, divide macaroni and cheese among six shallow bowls. Spoon a little Fig-Balsamic Drizzle over each serving.

Note: To reheat the prepared casserole, cover with foil and bake in a preheated 350°oven about 25 minutes or until heated through (165°F). If the macaroni noodles are dry, to add more moisture, use milk or cream.

LIMITED NUMBER OF TICKETS REMAIN FOR JULY 30 BEACH BALL

Posted 7/6/2021
New this year is the Friends Beach Club.

By Susan Thompson 

Lake Panorama Times

The Friends of Lake Panorama’s fourth Beach Ball fundraiser is Friday, July 30 at Lake Panorama National with tables available either in the LPN banquet room or outside under tents between the conference center and the golf course.
There will be 30 round tables with seating for eight at each. As of July 1, all 30 tables have sponsors. An estimated 50 tickets for those purchasing only event tickets are available at some of the sponsored tables.
New this year is the Friends Beach Club, with many of the table sponsors joining at either the Premier or Sponsor level. These levels include an additional contribution to the nonprofit charity while getting some tickets in the 50/50 raffle and names in the 2021 Beach Ball program.
Those interested in purchasing some of the remaining 50 tickets have two options. They can join the Friends Beach Club – Couple for $200, which includes two dinner tickets, five tickets in the 50/50 raffle, and their name in the 2021 Beach Ball program. Individuals also can join the Friends Beach Club for $100, which includes one dinner ticket, two tickets in the 50/50 raffle, and the person’s name in the program.
Besides the Beach Club options, just dinner tickets can be purchased for $50 each, with half of that going to Friends, the other half to the LPN. The planned dinner menu includes charcoal-grilled 10-ounce NY strip steaks, chicken kabobs, pasta primavera, fruit bowl, dinner rolls, and desserts of strawberry shortcake cups and triple chocolate Ghirardelli brownies.
The 2021 Beach Ball will feature live music, a 50/50 raffle, and both live and silent auctions. Registration is 4:30-5:30 p.m., with dinner served 6-7 p.m. Cash bars will be available both in the LPN banquet room and outside. The silent auction will close at 7 p.m., with the live auction beginning at 7:15 p.m.
A wide variety of items will be offered on both auctions. Kurt Johnson is donating a set of custom bags/cornhole boards. Michael Kleinwolterink is donating one of his photos of Fourth of July fireworks over Lake Panorama, printed on metal. Danny Cunningham, Lake Panorama Barge, is donating two dock bumper pads. These are a few of the items that will be offered during the live auction.
The silent auction will include a wide variety of gift cards, home décor items, wine, several gift baskets, a selection of jewelry items, several golf-related items, and Jody Muench’s Guthrie County Tapestry Afghan. While a good number of items has been donated so far, there is room for more quality donated items for both the live and silent auction.
Anyone interested in purchasing Beach Ball tickets or donating an auction item, can contact Susan Thompson, thomcomm@netins.net, or 515-240-6536.
Three projects will receive funds from this year’s Beach Ball. One is the Lake Panorama Dog Park. The goal is $50,000 to construct the park and provide all desired amenities, with nearly $42,000 in donations so far.
Another project that will receive Beach Ball funding involves enhancements to an existing trail near the Panorama West golf course, that is estimated to cost $5,500. Plans include marking a 2.5-mile trail, which will include a 1.5 mile out-and-back section, and an optional 1-mile loop. A trail map will be on a kiosk at the trail head. Directional signage, distance markers and two benches will be installed.
Three swings added to the Sunset Beach playground is the third project that will receive Beach Ball proceeds. These will be the same swings as the ones now at both Boulder and Shady beaches. The budget for this project is $8,000.
The Friends board of directors will meet in mid-August to decide how to divide the 2021 Beach Ball proceeds among these three projects.
Tax-deductible donations can be made at any time by check payable to Friends of Lake Panorama, and mailed to Friends of Lake Panorama, P.O. Box 488, Panora, Iowa, 50216. Donations also can be made by credit card on the Friends website at friendsoflakepanorama.org. 

PANORAMA WEST 2-GAL TOURNAMENT WELCOMES 72 PLAYERS 

Posted 7/6/2021
The Panorama West women’s golf league hosted a 2-gal best-shot tournament Tuesday, June 8. A total of 36 teams participated with players from Panora, Guthrie Center, Jefferson, Audubon and surrounding communities. The tournament theme was “Prickly Pairs and Pars.”
The theme was carried out with attire worn by committee members, plus three husbands of committee members. Twelve centerpieces, which were given away as door prizes, were Talavera style pots filled with colorful paper cacti.
Katie Richardson of Jefferson won the special event, which involved hitting her drive closest to the cardboard cactus in the middle of the ninth fairway.
Cash prizes were awarded to the top three teams in five flights. Winners of the championship flight were Carla Fitzgerald and Susan Thompson, with a score of even par 27. They won a scorecard playoff against Connie Hamilton and Nancy Scheffers, who also shot a 27, for second place. Paula Hansen and Sherry Miller placed third with a score of 29.
The tournament was followed by a buffet luncheon at the Panorama West Clubhouse, catered by Lake Panorama National.
Tournament committee members were Emily Spradling, Mary Kay O’Grady, Coop Rickert and Julie Wykoff.

OBITUARY: JANET ERICKSON 

Janeterickson bw
Posted 7/6/2021
Janet Lee Erickson, 84, daughter of Sam and Louise (Devine) Monroe, was born March 16, 1937, in Des Moines. She passed away June 20, 2021, in Panora.
 Janet graduated from Des Moines Lincoln High School in 1955. In 1958, she married Leslie “Eddie” Dorsett. To this union, two sons were born: Bill and Brian. They later divorced. She started working at Equitable Life Insurance Company and then Preferred Risk Insurance for about 10-12 years. She also worked at 3M. She married Ted Erickson on Aug. 15, 1970, in Des Moines. They made their home in Des Moines before moving to Lake Panorama in 1973. She was a volunteer at the Guthrie County Hospital in Guthrie Center where she helped with the Hospital Foundation Board for six years with five of those years working with Jody Sutton. She also worked in the Pro Shop at Lake Panorama National Golf Course.
 Janet was very involved in golf. She was past president of the ladies league along with holding various other board member offices for the league. She was tapped as co-chair of the ladies Solheim Cup and volunteered tirelessly for the Iowa Open while it was held at Lake Panorama.
 Janet enjoyed traveling, spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and her monthly lunches with Cindy and Carol, also with Kay and Jeanette. She also volunteered at the 3 C’s in Panora for many years.
 Janet is survived by her husband, Ted Erickson; sons, Bill (Denise) Dorsett and Brian (Beth) Dorsett both of Panora; step-children, Ted (Cindy) Erickson, Kim (Lynn) Clayton, and Kathy (Mike) Woods all of Des Moines; 6 grandchildren, Bailey (Brody), Abbey (Michael), MacKenzie (Josh), Dalton (Tiffany), Laura (Chad), and Nate (Heidi); 12 great-grandchildren with 2 more on the way, 1 great-great-granddaughter; 8 step-grandchildren, William (Jacque), Alec, Daniel (Kat), Kyle (Staci), Branden, Sarah, Eric (Amanda), and Lauren (Chico); and 11 step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Jeanne Ware.
 Funeral services were June 24, 2021, at the Twigg Funeral Home, Panora. Burial was in the Brethren Cemetery, Panora.

OBITUARY: Louise K. Brown  

Louisebrown bw
Posted 7/6/2021
Louise K. (Gleason) Brown, age 85, of Indianola, passed away Thursday, June 17, 2021, peacefully at home, surrounded by her family. She was born Oct. 1, 1935 in Audubon.
She was raised by her parents Lois and George Gleason to be a strong woman. In 1953, she graduated from Audubon High School with the nickname “Deed,” a childhood name given to her by her little brother Richard. She was an accomplished soloist and went to Morningside College, in Sioux City, majoring in music.
Louise worked at Corky’s Drive-In as a carhop in Audubon where she met Everett. They were married June 24, 1956, in Audubon.
Throughout the years, Louise worked for AT&T as a switchboard operator and a telephone operator.  Her most rewarding job was working as a special education teacher’s aide, which she did for many years in Ralston, Nebraska, and Missouri Valley. In life, though, her most cherished moments were raising their three children and caring for her family, (this often came in the form of cookies). Louise was a talented cook and baker, and she loved entertaining family and friends. She was active in church and community activities in the many towns they lived in. Panora and Mesa, Arizona, were two of her favorite communities to live, shop and entertain in. Music and playing cards were always a part of her life. Louise loved to travel. She especially enjoyed family vacations to Galena, Branson and Lake Tahoe. She and Everett traveled with friends to many national parks and presidential libraries. Other special places were Hawaii, Alaska, Belgium, Denmark, Lake Louise in Canada and several cruises.
Louise is survived by her husband, Everett, and their three children: Anthony Brown (Kris Jacob) of Lidderdale; Rachel (René) Engelhardt of Alexandria, Ohio; and Curtis (Cherie) Brown of Belle Plaine. Her eight grandchildren Timothy (Jordan) Brown of Cedar Rapids; Peter (Jess) Brown of Carroll; Ben (Rebecca) Engelhardt of Columbus, Ohio; Marie Engelhardt of Westerville, Ohio; Heidi Engelhardt of Fort Collins, Colorado; Nolan (Madison) Brown of Tiffin; Holly (Dustin) Kriegel of Hartwick; and Austin Brown of Belle Plaine. Her nine great-grandchildren Titus, Logan, Jensen, Mia, Emma, Lillian, Roosevelt, Cameron, Zoe and one on the way. Her brother Richard (Lela) Gleason of Audubon, and her sister-in-law Margery (Roy) Middaugh of Glidden.
Louise was preceded in death by her parents, George and Lois Gleason of Audubon; her in-laws Peter and Marie Brown of Brayton; her sister Norma Jean (Tootie) Davis and brother in-law Marvin Davis of Warrenton, Mississippi; in-laws Marilyn and Frank Smith of Brayton; and in-laws Earl and Jean Brown of Amana.
A Celebration of Life service was held June 26, 2021, at Trinity United Presbyterian Church in Indianola. Graveside committal of cremains was in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Audubon. Memorials may be given to Wesley Life Hospice or the Louise Gleason Brown Scholarship Fund for a scholarship to be awarded at Audubon High School Graduate C/O Audubon State Bank P.O. Box 149 Audubon, IA 50025. To sign an online condolence, visit www.overtonfunerals.com.

OBITUARY: JOHN SEWARD 

Johnseward bw
Posted 7/6/2021
John Wendell Seward passed to heaven on June 8, 2021. His family lovingly cared for him at the end of his life with the assistance of Wesley Life hospice and staff from Brio of Johnston. Prior to Brio, John and his wife Marilyn had homes in the Glenstone neighborhood of Grimes; Lake Panorama near Panora; Tucson, Arizona; Victoria, Minnesota, and West Branch, Iowa.
John (Jack) was born March 27, 1936, on a farm near New Providence, Iowa, to Wallace Wendell Seward and Verma Lois Whitehead Seward. He had two older brothers, Irwin and Lyle Seward. John was raised on a farm, was active in 4-H, and participated in multiple school activities before graduating from Melbourne High School in 1954. John graduated from Iowa State University where he majored in agricultural education. He held various leadership positions as a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. While at ISU, John participated in ROTC and was commissioned as a 2nd Lt. He received Scabbard & Blade and Alpha Zeta honors. John started his career with Cargill, Inc. in June 1958. He served in the military from September 1958  to August 1960, stationed at Fort Sill in Oklahoma and then Fort Riley in Kansas. Following his military service, John returned to Cargill. John’s career with Cargill spanned 38 years. He started in sales and held multiple positions including general manager for Nutrena Feed Division (West Branch), director of marketing and research for Animal Nutrition Division, area supervisor for businesses in United States, Canada, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. He retired as a senior vice president in September 1996. He met many of his closest friends through Cargill, and they continued to gather socially to travel, golf, share a meal and catch up with each other long after John retired. 
On Aug. 11, 1957, John married Marilyn Kay Smith. Together John and Marilyn raised three daughters: Laurie, Peggy and Jody. John and Marilyn moved frequently throughout their 62 years of marriage. They lived in Oklahoma, Kansas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska and Arizona, but Iowa was always “home.” They extended their time in West Branch to allow the girls to finish high school. While in West Branch, John was a member of the West Branch City Council, president of the chamber of commerce, and taught Sunday School at the W.B. United Methodist Church. 
John loved traveling, golf, his dogs, the United Methodist Church, ISU football and basketball, Jack Daniel’s, the daily newspaper, a good game of cards or cribbage, and teasing family, friends and strangers. John especially loved his family and spending time with them. He created memories through visits to extended family, family vacations, homes on the lake, touring Green Valley, family holidays, and the annual “Grandchildren’s Week,” where a new adventure was planned for each day.
John had a keen sense of curiosity and enjoyed both learning and teaching. As the family patriarch, John especially enjoyed teaching his daughters and grandchildren. He taught us the value of education by insisting we read every owner’s manual cover to cover. He taught us to make decisions (you can have ketchup or mustard but not both), and that sometimes children just need an answer (even if it’s not accurate). He taught us about car maintenance as we rotated his tires while he watched from the lawn chair with beer in hand. Each grandchild received a certificate for graduating from “manners camp.” With a twinkle in his eye, John could be both witty and silly, and he left us with so many stories.
John was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, a son-in-law, and a great-grandchild. He deeply missed his wife and best friend Marilyn, who passed away May 2020.
John leaves behind his children Laurie and Neil Barrick, Peggy and Randy Pierce, Jody and Mark Holmes. He will be missed by his grandchildren Jon (Tanya) Pierce, Megan Woody, Jenna Hoffman, Jennifer (Tom) Spurgin, Rachel (Mikael) Gustafson, Ben (Allyson) Holmes and Andrew (Alizabeth) Holmes, nine great grandchildren, eight nieces and nephews, and many friends. 

52nd LPA ANNUAL MEETING HELD

Newboardmembers
Posted 7/6/2021
More than 100 people attended, representing 57 voting members.

By Susan Thompson 

Lake Panorama Times 

The 52nd annual meeting of the Lake Panorama Association was June 26. It was postponed from its usual date in early May to allow for more people to get vaccinated and for concerns about meeting in large groups to ease.
More than 100 people attended, representing 57 voting members. It was announced the LPA currently has a total membership of 1,725, with 21 of those inactive because 2021 dues have not been paid. A total of 419 ballots were cast in the election for three people to serve on the LPA board of directors.
Re-elected for another three-year term were Emily Donovan and Rich Schumacher. Newly elected was Julie Fulton. Fulton will serve until May 2022, completing the final year of the unexpired term of the late Neil Wright, who was elected in 2019 and resigned because of health reasons in July 2020.

Financial and audit report
Gary Evans, LPA board treasurer, provided the 2020 financial and audit report for the LPA and its subsidiary, LPN, LLC. For 2019, Evans said the LPN operation showed an operating loss of $395,377, with overall revenue down $462,093 from 2019.
“The LPN was faced with many challenges in 2020 due to COVID-19,” Evans said. “In spite of these challenges, LPN management made quick adjustments to capitalize on all available avenues to continue business. Although LPN’s financial performance suffered due to COVID-19, LPN did successfully apply for SBA’s Payroll Protection Program. This loan of $229,212 was fully forgiven and was very important in keeping LPN running through 2020.”
Turning to the LPA, Evans said the 2020 net income was $580,488, which included $264,504 that was the auditors’ adjustment for land sales expense.
“This is an accounting adjustment for tax purposes and does not represent new money coming into the organization,” he said.
Evans said the LPA board decided a 5-percent dues increase should be applied for 2021.
“The board’s budgeting process focuses extensively on cash flow,” he said. “Cash balances are targeted for 20 percent, with the possibility these will be in the 17 to 18 percent range if non-budgeted expenditures are approved by the board as a midyear budget amendment.”
Evans said it’s important to remember the LPA board does not set its annual operating budget with the expectation of selling land. All operating expenses are covered by LPA’s recurring operating revenues.

President’s remarks
Mary Jane Carothers, completing her second year as LPA board president, chaired the meeting. In her report to the membership, Carothers said 2020 brought many challenges to LPA.
“Just as in your world, COVID outbreaks, quarantines and vaccinations posed new questions and trials as the association staff worked hard to keep all the amenities and services you expect as a member available, even in the midst of one of the longest economic shutdowns that I can recall in my lifetime,” she said. “I am proud to report the challenges of 2020 proved we have a strong board, management team, staff and a great deal of membership support.”
Carothers talked about the new LPA water plant that came online in the fall of 2020.
“Members have been enjoying a tremendous improvement in water quality,” she said. “LPA water previously had a hardness of 615 parts per million or 36 grains per gallon. The new system is providing water that is 120 parts per million or 7 grains per gallon. The DNR completed their final walk-through inspection on June 4 and the project passed with flying colors.”
Another point of pride for the LPA is the new maintenance facility, Carothers said.
“I think it is vital we support those who serve the association with such dedication. Being able to give these staff members a great place to work and maintain equipment was the right thing to do.”
Carothers thanked the LPN management team and staff for weathering an extremely difficult year.
“Very few industries were hit as hard by the pandemic as food and beverage operations. This challenge has continued into 2021 with widespread staff shortages in the industry,” she said. “Despite these challenges, LPN has added new faces to the management team, and they are positioning the organization for a bright future.”
Carothers also expressed her appreciation to the Lake Panorama Rural Improvement Zone (RIZ) board members for their continue efforts to protect and improve water quality in Lake Panorama. And she thanked Friends of Lake Panorama for raising money for additional recreational amenities.
“I am grateful for their continuing effort to improve the quality of life at Lake Panorama and urge you to generously support their fundraising efforts,” she said.

Challenges, golf, timeshares
John Rutledge, LPA general manager and LPN, LLC director of operations, began his report with a look at the LPN.
“The LPN, LLC operation continues to be a great benefit to our community. But it also continues to be a challenging business model to perfect,” he said. “This was certainly true in 2020, and I’m proud to say our staff and board continues to pursue an improved guest experience and also the best financial outcome possible.”
Rutledge said staffing in the food and beverage industry continues to be a challenge.
“The good news is our staff works extremely hard so you don’t know how short-staffed we are,” he said. “But we’re concerned about burnout, and we’re working to address this issue.”
This year has seen 28 additional golf memberships at Lake Panorama National over 2020, and one additional membership at Panorama West.
“Golf continues to provide a solid foundation for the LPN business model, and key transitions in turf and pro shop staff have gone very well in 2021,” Rutledge said.
Rutledge said the Clover Ridge Timeshare dissolution has been completed. All 22 units were sold, and several have entered into lodging agreements with LPN. LPA and all other creditors were paid from the proceeds of the unit sales.
Water infrastructure 
Shifting gears to the LPA, Rutledge said a highlight of 2020 was the completion of the LPA water infrastructure project.
“When you go into a project of this size, there is always the chance of a surprise,” he said. “It was a relief to get through this project without any significant hurdles, and I am pleased to report the finished product met the expectations of all involved.”
In addition to the well and reverse osmosis system, LPA has completed a scheduled water main replacement on the west side of the lake, installed a replacement main under Burchfield cove, and completed some planned work on 200th Road.

Beaches
Rutledge said several improvements have occurred at the lake’s three beaches. LPA replaced the retaining wall at Boulder Beach with a poured concrete wall, which is a substantial upgrade from the deteriorating landscape timbers that were previously there.
“Friends of Lake Panorama made an outstanding impact at the three beaches, with benches and swinging benches being added at all three locations,” Rutledge said. “Playground upgrades at Boulder and Shady beaches are both a marked improvement above what we’ve previously been able to offer.”

Water safety
Water safety and boat density became topics of focus in 2020 due to the surge in lake usage during the pandemic, Rutledge said.
“A water safety poll was conducted in the fall, with buoy readability being the primary concern. In response, LPA invested in 80-inch tall buoys for all SLOW 10 MPH and NO WAKE locations,” he said. “The remaining 60-inch tall buoys have been re-stickered to ensure the messaging is as high up on the buoy as possible.”
Zebra mussel veliger (larvae) testing was implemented in 2020 and will be conducted annually, Rutledge said. “The 2020 test was negative. We are doing everything we can to prevent zebra mussels from entering Lake Panorama,” he said. “If LPA ever discovers the presence of veligers, we will at least have some lead time to prepare.”

RIZ
Next Rutledge turned his attention to RIZ. Dredge America was hired in 2020 to remove more than 700,000 cubic yards of silt from the river channel. This supplemented LPA’s work and made use of County Basin easements that are set to expire within the 2020 decade.
A new and larger debris skimmer was delivered in 2020. This was a $400,000 purchase that replaced the skimmer LPA purchased over 20 years ago.
“Debris events have been limited over the past two years, due to drought conditions, but we are ready when the rains return,” Rutledge said.
Perhaps the biggest endeavor for RIZ has been land acquisition. Rutledge said land has been acquired for expansion of the CIPCO basin, which will serve the lake once the County Basin is exhausted. Also acquired are the sites for two additional wetlands, as well as a site for a future sediment basin.
Rutledge said RIZ is slated to generate $2.6 million in the 2021-22 fiscal year.
“These funds are critical to maintaining water quality and sustaining our ongoing effort to ensure Lake Panorama addresses sedimentation,” he said.

Property values
“The results of this effort are apparent when you look at Lake Panorama property values. The assessed valuation of the Lake Panorama Subdivision was $489 million for 2020, based on Jan. 1, 2020 values,” Rutledge said. “I expect the Jan. 1, 2021, and Jan. 1, 2022, values to be substantially higher, and our community will pass the half-billion-dollar mark.”
For comparison, Rutledge said all cities in Guthrie County have a combined value of $280 million.
“In other words, Lake Panorama is nearly twice the value of all cities combined,” he said. “I see these increases in property valuations as a barometer for our community, which shows we’re moving the right direction. The LPA, LPN and RIZ are all pieces of this puzzle, and all point to Lake Panorama being a huge economic driver in Guthrie County.”
After a brief question-and-answer session, the 52nd annual LPA meeting adjourned at 11 a.m.
Shortly after the LPA annual meeting adjourned, the LPA board of directors convened a special meeting to elect officers for the coming year. A slate of officers was nominated, and elected unanimously to take office upon adjournment of the special meeting. LPA board officers now are Rich Schumacher, president; Emily Donovan, vice president; David Finneseth, secretary; and Gary Evans, treasurer. 

Q&A: Event co-chair Dale Hochreiter answers a few of our questions.

Dalehochreiter bw
Posted 7/6/2021
By Susan Thompson 
Lake Panorama Times 

The first Lake Panorama Day was Aug. 2, 1969. It was originally scheduled to celebrate the completion of Lake Panorama’s dam, but weather and other delays meant that didn’t happen until the summer of 1970. Yet the party went on as planned.
Now more than 50 years have passed, and what began as a single day stretches over three days. Panora Chamber board members Marla Hammer and Dale Hochreiter are co-chairs for the 2021 community celebration. In this month’s Q&A, Hochreiter talks about plans for this year’s event.

Q. Tell us about the theme for the 2021 Panorama Days.  
A. This year’s theme – “Come Together” – was settled on during a brainstorming session where Chamber members were discussing options. So many of the things we were talking about involved how divided the country has become politically, and the struggles caused by COVID-19. We wanted a theme that would reflect our desire to have a fun weekend together, in Panora and at Lake Panorama, and put aside some of the worries of the past year.

Q. Let’s take a look at the events day by day. What’s on the schedule for Friday, Aug. 6? 
A. The annual cribbage tournament, sponsored by Stine Seed, begins at 2 p.m. in the community center, with registration at 1:30 p.m. The usual Friday evening farmer’s market will be on the west side of the square, beginning at 4:30 p.m. At the same time, there will be a Chalk the Block event for all ages in the town square park.
Cruise the Loop, with all types of cars welcomed, and hosted by Retro LUX, will run 6:30-8 p.m., with the starting point the NAPA store on the west edge of Panora. A cake walk for kids, sponsored by the Women for Panora’s Future, will be in 7-7:30 p.m. in Vet’s Auditorium.
Members of the Main Street Dance Studio will perform 6-7 p.m. on a stage in the town square park, followed by the Bill Riley Talent Show. Little Miss and Mister Panorama Days also be announced.
Crue Nation and Villains Dance will wrap up the first day with three hours of music from the 1980s, beginning at 8 p.m. Villains Dance’s goal is to make everyone attending feel like they just attended a real 1980s arena rock concert. Crue Nation will follow with a tribute to Motley Crue. Admission to this show is free, courtesy of sponsor Crystal Freeze Dry, and will take place in the town square park.

Q. Sounds like a busy start. What’s in store for Saturday? 
A. Saturday starts early with a bass fishing tournament on Lake Panorama beginning at 5:30 a.m. and running to 1:30 p.m. Registration begins at the marina at 5 a.m. for this event sponsored by Lake Panorama Fin and Feather.
The traditional pancake breakfast will be available in the Community Center from 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Panorama Days 5K Run, sponsored by Reshape Fitness Studio, begins in front of the library at 8 a.m. The Kid’s Warrior Run for ages 10 and under is at 9 a.m.
Parade registration starts at 9 a.m. at the Panorama Elementary School, with the parade at 10 a.m. One of the features of this year’s parade will be a Belgian Horse team.
The Panora Citizen of the Year and parade category winners will be announced in the gazebo following the parade. Local live music will be available in the gazebo 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cutest baby contest, sponsored by Lakeside Village, will begin at 12:30 p.m.
An escape room, sponsored by Panora Auto Parts, will be offered from noon to 8 p.m. Cost will be $15 for a half-hour and $25 for an hour. Location is yet to be determined.
A kid’s zone will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., sponsored by Panora Telco. A classic car show at P.J.’s Drive-In will be open the same hours. A bags tournament, sponsored by Active Health Solutions & Key Mortgage Group, will be on Main Street 1-4 p.m., with registration at 12:30 p.m. Bingo will be in the community center 1-3 p.m., hosted and sponsored by Guthrie County State Bank. The Panorama alumni banquet will begin at 5 p.m. at the community center.
The Lake Panorama ski team show will begin at 2:30 p.m. The Port will offer live music beginning at 9 p.m., and the Lake Panorama Association will present its annual fireworks display from the south shore at dusk.

Q. That leaves us with Sunday. What’s on tap to wrap up 2021 Panorama Days? 
A. At 7:45 a.m. Sunday, a non-denominational community church service will be conducted on the south shore. Those attending can come by boat or vehicle. A breakfast at the Community Center will be served 8 a.m. to noon.
The kid’s fishing derby, sponsored by the Lake Panorama Fin and Feather, will be 9-11 a.m. at the Lake Panorama marina, with registration at 8:45 a.m. A golf tournament to raise money for the annual alumni banquet will begin at 12:30 p.m. at the Panorama West golf course.
At 5 p.m., there will be a gospel music festival at the Panora Church of the Brethren, followed at 6 p.m. by sandwiches and an ice cream social.

Q. I know the Panora Chamber has been working on fundraising for the 2021 Panorama Days. How has that been going? 
A. Our community really has been “coming together” — just as this year’s theme says, with individuals contributing money, and businesses stepping up to sponsor many of our planned events. Direct donations to Panorama Days continue to be welcomed. Donations can be sent by check to P.O. Box 73, Panora, Iowa, 50216, and should be marked as a Panorama Days donation. Donations also can be made electronically using Venmo@panora-chamber.
Plans may continue to evolve between now and Aug. 6. Check the Chamber’s Facebook page and panorachamber.org website for more details. There also is an ad elsewhere in this publication that lists the current schedule. Anyone with questions can call me at 641-757-0605.
Blue satin rose of sharon

Design your gardens for year-round color and protect your investment

Posted 7/6/2021
You will look forward to the change of seasons as your landscape transforms throughout the year.

By Melinda Myers


Create a colorful year-round garden filled with flowers, greenery, colorful fruit, fall color, winter interest and a few surprises. Consider seasonal interest when planning a new garden or landscape. Adding a few key plants to existing gardens can help boost your landscape’s seasonal appeal.
Include a variety of plants with multiple seasons of interest as well as bird and pollinator appeal. You will look forward to the change of seasons as your landscape transforms throughout the year.
Use trees and shrubs to provide the framework and longevity in your landscape. Serviceberries, crabapples, dogwoods, and many others have flowers, fruit, pollinator, and bird appeal and add winter interest with their bark or form. Look for those with colorful exfoliating bark like paperbark maple, heptacodium, and river birch for a beautiful statement in the winter garden.
Include a few summer blooming shrubs like St John’s wort, buttonbush, panicle hydrangeas and Rose of Sharon. They add an unexpected fresh look to your summer landscape.
Perennials combine nicely with trees, shrubs, and annuals, adding seasons of color and texture. Include those that also attract songbirds, bees, and butterflies by creating a beautiful habitat. Blue star (Amsonia), Siberian iris, sedum, Rudbeckia, coneflower, and grasses are just a few that can brighten any garden with several seasons of color, provide homes for beneficial insects and food for the birds.
End the season with fall bloomers like goldenrod, asters, and hardy mums. These provide food for late season pollinators.  Leave healthy plants stand, providing homes for many beneficial insects, winter interest in the garden, and food for the songbirds.
Use annuals to fill any voids, add season long color and yearly changes in the landscape. Containers on steps, decks and patios help bring the garden to your front and back door.
Include spring flowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils and hyacinths planted in fall for a colorful welcome to spring. These and many of the earliest bloomers like winter aconites, grape hyacinths, and crocus provide needed nectar for early season pollinators.
Evergreens are always a welcome addition to any landscape. They provide shelter for the birds and year-round greenery.  Find new and interesting ways to include them in your landscape.
Use taller evergreens for screening bad views, buffering traffic and other noises, or creating privacy.  Use evergreens with interesting form and texture to create a focal point in a garden bed or landscape. Combine them with perennials and flowering shrubs for added seasonal interest.
Then keep your landscape looking its best by protecting key plants from hungry critters like deer, rabbits and voles. Skip the fencing and scare tactics by applying a rain resistant, organic repellent like Plantskydd (plantskydd.com) at planting. You will need fewer applications and the odor-based repellent sends animals dining elsewhere before taking a bite out of your plants. Apply repellent before animals start feeding and follow the label directions for best results.
Continue to gather ideas with visits to public gardens and partaking in garden tours. Be sure to take notes and pictures that you can reference later. Creating a year-round landscape is an ongoing process that is part of the fun and adventure of gardening.

Melinda Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Tree World Plant Care for her expertise to write this article. Myers’ website is www.MelindaMyers.com.