COVE CAT

Posted 11/09/2022
By Cheryl Temple
Lake Panorama Times

Name: Bio
Age: 1-plus
Available for adoption at Panora Pets

Bio came to the shelter shy, so he spent a good amount of time in a foster home. There, he realized he does like humans. Bio is a kitty with a distinct purrsonality. He loves to run, play and wrestle, as well as nap on your lap. He gets along well with other kitties. He and his foster home’s small dog became best friends. They were quite the team. Bio would knock things off the counter, and the dog would carry them off to a hiding place. Bio’s adoption fee is $25.

LAKE DOGS

Posted 11/09/2022
By Cheryl Temple
Lake Panorama Times

Name: Nova
Age: 4
Breed: Mal-Shi
Owners: Kent and Kim Kaplan

Names: Harlee Jo and Diesel
Age: 11
Breed: Yorkies
Owners: Kent and Kim Kaplan

Nova, Harlee and Diesel enjoy boat rides, golf cart rides and the various smells in the yard. They love playing on the dock and shoreline and kissing those they meet. The Kaplan family, Kent and Kim, have enjoyed living part time at the lake for 13 years. Their granddaughters, Alaina and Chesney (pictured), like to play with the dogs when visiting at the lake.

LAKE PANORAMA RIZ ELECTION DEC. 13
Trustees Bill Dahl and Corey Welberg are running for re-election to three-year terms.

Posted 11/09/22
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

Voting for two positions on the Lake Panorama Rural Improvement Zone (RIZ) board will take place Tuesday, Dec. 13. The polls will be open from noon until 8 p.m. in the lower level of the LPA office, 5006 Panorama Drive.
Or voters can request absentee ballots from the Guthrie County Auditor for the “Special Election” and fill in Lake Panorama RIZ. The last date to request an absentee ballot via U.S. Postal Service is Nov. 28. Voters also can vote absentee at the auditor’s office in the Guthrie County courthouse from Nov. 23 through Dec. 12.
Trustees Bill Dahl and Corey Welberg are running for re-election to three-year terms. Other trustees on the RIZ board are Doug Hemphill, JoAnn Johnson and Larry Petersen.
Voting is limited to individuals whose voter registration address is located within the Lake Panorama subdivision. LPA members who do not consider Lake Panorama their primary residence for voting purposes are not eligible to cast a ballot.
This is a government election, not an LPA election. Every eligible voter can cast a ballot. This differs from LPA elections, where each membership is allowed just one vote.
The trustees are responsible for administering the RIZ, which includes the platted portions of the Lake Panorama development. The Lake Panorama RIZ is a local government entity designed to manage erosion control and water quality at Lake Panorama and within its watershed.
The RIZ was formed in 1997 by the initiative of the LPA through legislation in Des Moines. The tax increment financing district allows tax growth dollars to stay within the Lake Panorama development for water quality purposes.
The board of trustees oversees the annual budget and associated expenditures. Estimated revenue for the 2022-2023 fiscal year is nearly $3 million. These funds are used exclusively to fund improvements allowed under IA Code 357.H, which includes dredging operations, erosion control practices and water quality improvements.
A key focus of RIZ is the dredging of sediment from Lake Panorama. This ensures lake depth remains suitable for safe enjoyment by LPA members and their guests.
One current multi-year project is the expansion of the 180th Trail Basin, formerly known as the CIPCO Basin. This project represents an investment of about $4 million of RIZ funds. This expanded sediment basin is where dredging spoils will go once the current basin is full. Two additional wetlands are in the planning stages and would bring the total number of wetlands protecting Lake Panorama to five.
Another project that began in late October is repairing the rip rap along the south shore, which is estimated at about $780,000 and expected to be complete before the end of this year. LPA signed an agreement with RIZ that in return for this investment, the south shore will not be used for anything beyond recreational purposes for the next 15 years.
For more information on Lake Panorama RIZ, visit www.lakepanoramariz.org.

LAKE PANORAMA RESIDENT HELPS MONARCHS THRIVE
For the past two summers, Kelli Peters has been giving monarchs a boost.

Posted 10/12/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

The eastern monarch butterfly population has experienced an 80% decline over the past two decades. Causes for the population decline include loss of milkweed habitat in the spring and summer breeding ranges of the United States, loss of overwintering habitat in Mexico and extreme weather events.
Iowa is in the center of the monarch’s summer breeding range, and about 40% of all monarch butterflies that overwinter in Mexico come from Iowa and neighboring states. Researchers agree the percentage of monarchs that survive in nature from egg to adulthood is less than 10%, and some believe the percentage is significantly lower.
For the past two summers, Kelli Peters has been giving monarchs a boost from her Lake Panorama home. She and her husband, John, have owned a home on the west side since 2008. Her interest in helping monarch caterpillars, which she calls cats, turn into monarch butterflies was pure accident.
“About four years ago, I was doing some yard work at my daughter’s home, pulled out some weeds, and this shiny thing caught my eye,” Peters says. “It was a chrysalis. I took it home and rigged up a contraption with a stick to have it hang vertically. Then I looked online to learn how to take care of it.”
Peters learned it takes approximately 10 days for a monarch butterfly to emerge from the chrysalis, but she didn’t know how long it had already been in that form.
“I watched it all the time to see if I could see any change. We decided to come to the lake one weekend, and I wanted to take it with me, but John thought I was crazy, so I didn’t,” she says. “When we came home from the lake, all that was left was a paper-thin shell. I started looking all over the house and finally found her on the side of our couch. I started tearing up; I was so excited.”
She had already named the soon-to-be butterfly Chrystal. But by the time it emerged, she knew male monarchs have two black spots on each hind wing. Chrystal was actually a male, so she renamed him Christopher, before gently releasing him to the world.
Fast forward to 2020. COVID hit in March. Both she and John started working from home and chose to live and work mainly in their lake home. A year later, they sold their Urbandale home and have been fulltime Lake Panorama residents since March 2021. Kelli, now retired, but still working part-time as a legal assistant for a West Des Moines law firm, found she missed the socialization aspect of being in the office.
“What do you do?” she asks. “Social media! TikTok has a woman who goes by Monarch CEO, who kept coming up on my feed. I was glued to the screen every time I saw her videos, and I started looking online to find everything I could about raising monarch caterpillars. I thought, ‘I could do this,’ and a hobby was born.”
Female monarchs lay their eggs on milkweed plants, and the caterpillars that hatch from the eggs feed exclusively on milkweed. Adult monarchs need nectar from flowering plants during the spring and summer breeding seasons to support reproduction and during the fall to fuel their 3,000-mile migration to Mexico, where they congregate in mountain forests.
In 2021, Peters raised and released 51 monarch butterflies, naming most of them. This year she gave up bestowing names and instead kept a notepad with key dates and statistics. She found the first monarch eggs on June 8. The first butterflies from those eggs emerged July 4, and were two males. Those were followed by five females July 5 and another male July 6. The last two of the 148 butterflies Peters released this year left her home Sept. 26 and 28. Both were males.
Peters is quick to say she’s no expert.
“I just love the miracle of watching them grow from a tiny caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly,” she says.
“An egg takes about three days to hatch,” Peters says. “Once the caterpillar hatches, it eats only milkweed, and grows 12 to 14 days to approximately 2,000 times its body size before turning into a chrysalis. Once in chrysalis form, it takes another 10 days before the butterfly emerges.”
The search for both monarch eggs and caterpillars begins around mid-June and runs through mid-September.
“We live in an area where there is a lot of milkweed,” she says. “I will go out walking or on the golf cart looking for eggs. Sometimes you get lucky and there will be a little guy already hatched. I take them home and raise them inside where parasites, spiders, birds and other environmental issues can’t kill them.”
Her husband likes to golf the Panorama West course, and Kelli sometimes goes along.
“Yes, I go ‘golfing’ with him, but not to golf, my clubs are just a prop for me,” she says. “I go to get milkweed and cats; it’s a great place to find both.”
Each stage of a monarch’s transformation, which is called metamorphosis, requires different care. The eggs Peters discovers on the underside of milkweed leaves are laid out on a paper plate until she can see they are going to hatch. Not all eggs grow, but the ones that do turn a darker color as they get close to hatching.
“I don’t try to count eggs, only caterpillars,” Peters says. “Once I know an egg is going to hatch, I place it in a plastic container that has several small holes punched in the top for air. I usually put several in one container, depending on the size of cat and container. As the cats grow bigger, I move them to larger containers.”
Peters is constantly harvesting leaves and feeding cats.
“I cut the milkweed leaves off and bring them home to clean. I remove any insects and rinse the leaves with water,” she says. “I wrap the leaves in moist paper towels and store in the refrigerator until it’s feeding time.”
Peters says her favorite part of the caterpillars is watching them get “big and fat. They gobble up the milkweed, eating it in rows like we eat corn. If there are several of them together and eating at the same time, you can hear them munching and chewing,” she says.
As the caterpillars get bigger, Peters moves them into mesh cages, knowing they soon will be ready to create a chrysalis.
“They have to hang from something. When they start to hang in the shape of the letter J, you know they are getting close,” she says. “Once the chrysalis has been formed, there’s not much to do. In about 10 days, the chrysalis turns from a bright green to black, and you can see the monarch wings through the shell.”
Once a butterfly emerges, it needs to hang for a few hours to dry and pump its wings to full size.
“I typically release them within 24 hours, if it is not too cold or raining. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, I have fed them honey water and then released the following day,” Peters says.
During the busiest few weeks, Peters spends about an hour each day tending to the monarchs in various stages.
“I clean the containers daily and add fresh paper towel and milkweed,” she says. “I relate raising caterpillars to having a dog or cat. You have to take care of them just like you would your pet.”
Like other pet owners, Peters has found ways to manage when she travels.
“Last year I went on a girls’ trip to Chicago. I loaded up plastic bags with milkweed leaves in a cooler to keep them fresh, and my containers with about 20 cats in various stages went with me,” she says.
Besides taking care of monarchs from the time they are microscopic eggs until they are ready to fly away, Peters also is improving the habitat for monarchs on their Lake Panorama property.
“I release the butterflies in my flower garden area. I have a lot of zinnias, geraniums, marigolds, petunias and butterfly plants that I plant each year,” she says. “This year I’m planting more perennials to make our gardens better so the monarchs come back each year. We planted swamp milkweed in pink and white, plus some additional butterfly weed plants, common milkweed and butterfly bushes.”
A report released in May by the World Wildlife Fund indicated the eastern monarch butterfly population increased slightly over the previous year. That shows the efforts of Kelli Peters and other like-minded monarch enthusiasts are making a difference.

SWING SET ADDED TO SUNSET BEACH PLAYGROUND

Posted 10/12/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

It’s been just over a year since an organization that helps coordinate volunteer opportunities 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.
Key funding for the program comes from a federal grant through AmeriCorps Seniors. A local sponsoring entity is needed, and the sponsor for Guthrie County is Boone County Hospital. RSVP in Boone County began in 1987. Services were expanded into Greene County in 2004 and into Guthrie County in July 2021.
Mary Porter of Guthrie Center is 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, located at 2067 Highway 4, north of Panora, provides in-kind office space on the facility’s fourth floor.
“For 30-plus years, I had worked full time as a ventriloquist with Suzi Q and had no intention of changing,” Porter says. “Then COVID hit, and for 18 months the only programming we did was by Zoom. While on our way to a wedding in Washington state in May of 2021, I received an unexpected call asking if I would be interested in a job. I think I surprised both my husband and myself when I said I would be interested in hearing about it.”
By the time Porter got back to Iowa, she had an appointment with Michele Hull of Boone, the RSVP 55+ Volunteer Program director. Hull has been with the program since 1997 and had written the grant request that allowed the program to expand into Guthrie County.
“I got excited about this opportunity because I knew I was going to get to help seniors,” Porter says.
RSVP administers several free programs. One is Adult Caregiver Respite, which matches volunteers with full-time caregivers of an adult family member or friend who cannot be left alone.
Tammy Huffman of Guthrie Center has been a full-time caregiver for her mother-in-law for the past five years. A friend of hers texted her a picture of an RSVP poster and suggested she might be able to get some help. Huffman calls the program and its volunteers a godsend.
“I have three different volunteers, all wonderful ladies, who come in two to three times each week, for two to six hours at a time,” she says. “I try to fit in as many errands as I can while I have someone here. If I have to be gone during mealtime, I put food out they can offer to her. They also can remind her to take her medicines.”
Huffman has some health issues that recently have required more trips to the doctor for her. Plans are being made to transition her mother-in-law into a nursing home, so she can focus on her own recovery.
“I urge others who need help to check on the RSVP program. Mary Porter and the volunteers all go above and beyond the call of duty,” she says.
Porter recently was approached by another full-time caregiver, who had been hesitant to sign up for the respite program because she felt she would be letting her loved one down.
“She walked up to me at a store with a big smile on her face and said, ‘Today is my free day, yesterday was rough, and I was never so happy to see my volunteer walk in this morning.’ I walked to my car and told my husband, with tears in my eyes, this is why I love my job — we are helping people,” she says.
Teresa Mowrer, who lives south of Guthrie Center, has been a volunteer in the In-Home Visitation program since last February. The woman she had been visiting recently moved, and she is waiting for another match.
“I tried to go weekly, usually for an hour-and-a-half. I would bring some newspapers, sometimes a couple of magazines and a dessert,” Mowrer says. “We mostly would just sit and talk.”
The daughter of the woman Mowrer was visiting heard about the in-home visitation program and thought it would be good for her mom. She said it gave her some peace of mind knowing someone was checking on her.
“I didn’t realize until her daughter told me that my visits were something her mother looked forward to, although she always thanked me when I left,” Mowrer says. “I have enjoyed volunteering in this way, and would encourage others to try it.”
Another opportunity for volunteers is the Phone Friends program.
“About five years ago when my husband passed away, a friend started calling me every Monday,” says Wilda Oreweiler. “It has meant so much to me. I wanted to help someone else by making regular phone calls to them.”
Porter says both 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. Recipients can participate in either program or both.
Another program that so far has volunteers but no participants in Guthrie County is the Grocery Assistance-shopping Program (GAP). GAP volunteers shop for groceries in this program that is available to 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.
Additional programs are available through partnerships. This summer, Porter matched Paula Wachholtz with Lakeside Village as a volunteer in the facility’s memory care garden.
“I retired in 2020 after 35 years as a pediatric physical therapist in the Papillion La Vista Schools. I moved to Lake Panorama fulltime and was looking for a way to get more involved in my new community,” Wachholtz says. “I learned about RSVP when I was living at Lakeside Village for three months during my home renovation. I fell in love with the Lakeside residents and was looking for a way to stay connected to them.
“So far the memory garden is my primary project,” she says. “I trim hedges, do a lot of weeding and clean up. I have loved my interactions with the Lakeside staff and the patients in the memory care unit as they come out to enjoy the day when I am there working.”
Wachholtz was the recipient of one of the $500 gifts from the Guthrie County State Bank’s May Day Acts of Kindness program. She plans to use the money for mulch and perhaps new cushions and umbrellas for the benches and tables in the garden.
Another RSVP partnership is with Elderbridge, the area agency on aging for Guthrie County. In October, Wachholtz got involved in the Elderbridge Errand Buddy program, which matches a volunteer with a senior who needs transportation to appointments or other places. Now Waccholtz is an errand buddy for a Panora resident.
Porter says the goal is to have 85 active volunteers within three years. In the first year, 14 volunteers signed up, with many calls coming in as soon as the program was publicized. With one year under her belt, Porter now is hoping to recruit additional volunteers, plus find more people who are interested in the services provided.
“The other side of this story is I need recipients to match with those interested in volunteering. It has been exciting for me as I attend a match meeting where the volunteer is introduced to the participant to find out what they have in common,” she says. “Caregivers benefit from some guilt-free time to rest, go to appointments, shop, attend a grandchild’s activities. Participants benefit from in-home or phone visits that helps keep them from getting lonely.”
Porter says volunteers benefit by staying active, meeting new people, contributing to the community, and developing new skills and knowledge. “Although this is a nationwide program and free to participants, I like to think of it as that ‘Iowa nice’ showing through with people helping people,” she says.
RSVP volunteers choose how, where and how often they want to serve. “Becoming a volunteer is as simple as visiting about your interests and the volunteer opportunities, fill out an enrollment form, and I connect you to where you will volunteer,” she says.
To learn more about how to get involved by volunteering or receiving services, contact Porter at 641-431-0132 or rsvpguthrieco@gmail.com.

Twin Vines Fall Festival set for Oct. 15
More than 20 vendors will have wares on display at this free-admission event.

Posted 10/12/22
By Shane Goodman
Lake Panorama Times

Sip on some wine or Iowa craft beers. Enjoy live music. Browse products from a variety of vendors. And plan on lunch from Zipp’s Pizzaria.
If that sounds like an afternoon of fun, then put the Twin Vines Fall Festival on your calendar now.
On Oct. 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., more than 20 vendors will be showing and selling their wares at this free-admission event.
Attendees will find products from vendors like Tripple Berry Farm/Outlaw Bacon with their jam, bacon and smoked meats; Early Morning Harvest and their produce, organic flour and honey; Kuhn’s House of Scents with handmade wax and body products; Rustic Designs and their wooden signs; and Zyia Active with activewear, to name just a few.
Kent Atha, a musician from the Des Moines area, will be performing live music from a mix of genres.
This is the first effort at a Fall Festival, which was organized by Twin Vines, a family-owned vineyard, winery and event venue located on a working farm.
“We were wanting to bring a vendor festival to the community offering music, food trucks and multiple vendors for the fall fest,” said Brad Hayes, a partner at Twin Vines.
The event was largely spearheaded by Megan Anderson, events manager at the vineyard. The festival has been in the works for about four months, according to Hayes, who said repeating the event annually could be a “possibility.”
Twin Vines is located at 2821 Highway 44 in Panora. For more information on the Fall Festival event and a full list of vendors, visit the Twin Vines Fall Festival event page on Facebook.

ON THE LAKE
Butterflies, neighbors and Halloween humor

Posted 10/12/2022
By Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher

As I edited the copy for this month’s issue, I was especially interested in the monarch butterfly story and what Kelli Peters has been doing do give them a boost from her Lake Panorama home.
I recall chasing butterflies in my childhood yard and trying to catch them. It kept my friends and me busy for days. I also remember placing the caterpillars in Mason jars with twigs and leaves and marveling in the process of the cocoon building and the ultimate transformation.
You may have noticed that the butterfly population has diminished in the past few decades, with numerous causes speculated. In recent years, though, some populations have increased. We can thank people like Kelli for their efforts to reverse this. Be sure to read the story and then chase the butterflies around your yard the next time you can.

How will your neighborhood kids remember you?
I wrote about neighbors in my Daily Umbrella column recently (www.dailyumbrella.com), and I will share a portion of it here. If you are fortunate enough to have great neighbors like Jolene and I do, then you are surely smiling. But do you ever wonder what your neighbors truly think of you? If you really want to know, ask the neighbor kid. Think I am wrong? Take a walk down memory lane and think back of your younger years and the time you spent outside. You were likely more aware of the neighborhood surroundings than most adults. As such, you had a solid grasp on the temperament of the folks living near you. Which of those childhood neighbors did you really like? And which ones did you avoid? I am betting you didn’t have to think long before images of certain people came to mind.
I remember the neighbor who taught me how to fly a kite. And I remember the one who threw my bicycle in the street because I had it in his driveway when he came home from work. I remember the neighbor who came across the street to help me down from a tree that I was too scared to jump from. And I remember the neighbors who never answered their doors on Beggars’ Night. I remember the neighbor who taught me how to throw a perfect football spiral. And I remember the one who yelled at my friends and me to shut up when we were playing Kick the Can in the early evenings.
I was reminded of all this when I saw a neighbor boy from our home in Grimes the other morning while getting in my truck to go to work. He made eye contact with me briefly and then looked away. I yelled out, “Good morning, neighbor!” He looked directly at me and then cracked something that was beginning to resemble a smile. I doubt that this brief conversation changed his day, but who knows? That small gesture may have been just what he needed. And even if it wasn’t, it made me smile.

Photo submissions
Our banner photo on the front page was snapped about 4 p.m. on Oct. 5 by Kelli Peters as a brief storm moved across the Lake Panorama dam area. Kelli took this photo from their deck, capturing both the storm clouds to the east and the beautiful fall colors on the surrounding trees.
Some of you have asked how to submit similar photos throughout the year. It’s easy. Just email to me at shane@dmcityview.com.

Halloween humor
It’s October, and that means it’s Halloween time. As such, I will spare you the lake jokes this month and share some Halloween humor that hopefully you haven’t heard before:
Are any Halloween monsters good at math? No, unless you Count Dracula.
Why is a cemetery a great place to write a story? Because there are so many plots there.
What genre of music does a mummy like the best? Wrap!
Have a great month, and, as always, thanks for reading.

SWING SET ADDED TO SUNSET BEACH PLAYGROUND

Posted 10/12/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

In 2014, shortly after receiving 501(c)3 nonprofit status, Friends of Lake Panorama started raising funds for a large destination playground at Sunset Beach. More than two years later, the playground opened in summer of 2016. The new playground replaced an old slide, merry-go-round and swings.
From the beginning, some people expressed disappointment swings were no longer available at Sunset Beach. As plans were made by Friends to upgrade play equipment at both Shady and Boulder Beaches in 2020 and 2021, swings were included.
When the Friends board discussed how to spend proceeds from the 2021 Beach Ball, members decided to bring swings back to Sunset Beach. Three swings were ordered Aug. 25, 2021, with estimated delivery expected March 2022. But, as with so many things these days, manufacturing and shipping delays led to the Sunset Beach swing set being delivered five months later than planned.
The swing set finally arrived at Lake Panorama Aug. 30 and was installed by a Boland Recreation crew the next day. Boland Recreation of Marshalltown is the vendor that now has provided new play equipment at all three of Lake Panorama’s beaches, funded by money raised by Friends of Lake Panorama. The three swings, which include two belt swings and one toddler swing, are directly west of the existing playground.
The wood fiber safety surface material was delivered Sept. 6 and spread by LPA maintenance staff two days later. At the same time, LPA installed new wood fiber in the existing playground, which had deteriorated over the last six years the playground has been in use.

TESTING SHOWS NO ZEBRA MUSSEL PRESENT IN LAKE PANORAMA … YET
The mussels have spread into much of the upper Midwest including the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, and several streams and lakes in Iowa.

Posted 10/12/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

In spring 2014, the LPA Board of Directors adopted new rules in an attempt to keep aquatic invasive species from infesting Lake Panorama. Invasive species reproduce early, often, in large numbers and in multiple ways. They grow rapidly and have few natural enemies. Aquatic invasive species can cause damage to equipment, threaten water recreation safety, and, ultimately, reduce property values.
Several aquatic invasive species have been introduced into Iowa water bodies. One of the most concerning is zebra mussels. The pest was first introduced in the Great Lakes by the emptying of water ballast from sea-going ships that arrived from the Black and Caspian seas, located between Europe and Asia. The mussels since have spread into much of the upper Midwest including the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, and several streams and lakes in Iowa.
Zebra mussels are small shellfish that can produce up to 1,000 microscopic eggs every day. The mussels attach themselves to smooth surfaces. In some lakes, rocks, dock posts, underwater portions of lifts, boat hulls, propellers and inboard/outboard units have become completely covered.
“The zebra mussel is an invasive species that has had detrimental effects on other lakes in Iowa. They can travel in ballast water or plant material that may get stuck on a vessel being transported from one lake to another,” says Lane Rumelhart, LPA’s project manager. “LPA’s invasive species policies are aimed at trying to avoid the introduction of these creatures.”
In 2020, Rumelhart worked with RMB Environmental Laboratories Inc. of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, to begin an annual program to test for zebra mussel veligers in Lake Panorama.
“Zebra mussel veligers are free-swimming larvae of the mussels. Water current can pull veligers long distances before becoming heavy enough to settle to the bottom of a waterbody,” Rumelhart says. “I talked to RMB’s water biologist about testing for zebra mussels and was told veligers become prevalent one to three years before mussels are visible. He said by testing for veligers, we may be able to get a head start on preparation for the mussels, if they ever become present.”
Rumelhart uses a tow net made specifically for capturing microscopic organisms out of water and pulls samples through the net in two locations — the marina and the dredge dock above the debris trap in the upper basin. Samples are sent to the lab in Minnesota for examination. Testing in 2020 and 2021 were negative for zebra mussel larvae in Lake Panorama. The same result was reported this fall after the 2022 samples were tested.
“LPA staff believes a two-pronged approach to invasive species is the most responsible strategy,” Rumelhart says. “First, prevention remains our top priority, so we will continue to educate our members about prevention and enforce our invasive species regulations.”
Second, Rumelhart says LPA will continue to test each summer to ensure staff and members have a head start on responding, if zebra mussel veligers are found in Lake Panorama.
“Zebra mussels could clog irrigation systems for our two golf courses and waterfront homeowners. This pest likely would create new challenges for routine dam operation and maintenance. The barge companies would require some advance planning as zebra mussels weigh down docks and boat lifts. If we ever do have to face these challenges, advance notice will help us avoid a last-minute scramble for emergency solutions,” Rumelhart says.
Here is a review of LPA’s rules related to stopping invasive species from entering Lake Panorama. Boats owned by LPA members that are used exclusively on Lake Panorama are considered “resident” boats. These must display a “resident” sticker and do not require annual inspections.
Any boat that is not used exclusively at Lake Panorama must display a “non-resident” sticker. These boats must pass an inspection by LPA personnel after returning from another body of water.
Inspections look for the following: plant parts, mud, animal specimens on boat or trailer or fishing equipment, and water in live wells, bilge tanks, ballast tanks or engine cooling systems. For members who do take their water vessels to other lakes, thoroughly cleaning, draining and drying the boat, trailer and equipment for at least five days in warm weather should allow the boat to pass inspection and be allowed back on Lake Panorama.
It’s not just boats that can transport aquatic invasive species. Any water-related equipment such as lifts and docks previously installed in another lake cannot be installed at Lake Panorama before passing invasive protocols. Equipment that has been thoroughly drained, cleaned, dried and treated may be considered for installation after security or management does an initial inspection, and the equipment sits on land away from the shoreline for a minimum of 30 days.

LPA job openings

Posted 10/12/22

The LPA Maintenance and Water departments have two full-time positions available. Duties vary, and more detail can be provided upon request. These positions need filled immediately. If you or someone you know is interested, contact the office by phone at 641-755-2301 or email lpa@lakepanorama.org.

Power and water to be shut off at LPA campgrounds by Oct. 31

Posted 10/12/22

Water and electricity will be shut off in both campgrounds by Saturday, Oct. 31. This is the normal end of the camping season and time to get non-heated facilities closed prior to winter freeze-up. LPA reserves the right to adjust this date if the temperature forecast unexpectedly dips well below freezing during the remainder of October. The campgrounds will also be closed Oct. 31 for the season.

OBITUARY
Dale Grotjohn

Posted 10/12/2022

Dale Gordon Grotjohn, 88, son of John and Edna (Krause) Grotjohn, was born May 22, 1934, in rural Schaller. He passed away Monday, Sept. 5, 2022, at the New Homestead in Guthrie Center, surrounded by his girls.
Dale graduated from Schaller High School in 1952. He worked at Kingan and Co. in Storm Lake. He then went into the United States Army in August of 1954. He was stationed in Whittier, Alaska, until July of 1956.
He was united in marriage to Arla Mae Brockway on Dec. 27, 1959. They made their home in Fort Dodge for about five months. They then moved to Waverly for two years where Dale worked for Western Electric until 1962, when they moved to Hubbard to manage the telephone company. He left Hubbard in 1970 to manage the Panora Telephone Coop Inc. in Panora, retiring in 1999.
Dale was a member of St. Thomas Lutheran Church in Panora, where he was an elder and was past president of the church board. He also was a member of the Panora Lions Club and PRIDE group. He served on the Lake Panorama Rural Improvement Zone Board, Guthrie County Hospital Board and the Panora Telephone Board.
Dale was an avid fisherman and golfer. He and Arla Mae enjoyed throwing their annual Fourth of July party socializing with many friends and family.
Dale and Arla Mae were very family oriented. They enjoyed spending time with their girls, grandchildren and great-grandchildren who affectionately called them Grandpa and Grandma Pizza!
He is survived by his daughters, Stephanie Godwin of Panora and Stacy (Jim) Henrich of Ankeny; grandchildren, Shelby (Marcus) Lewis, Sydney (Zeb) Osen, Payton (Steven) Fox, Benjamin Henrich and Reilly Henrich; and great-granddaughters, Ella and Ava Lewis and Willa Osen. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Arla Mae; sister, Florine; and brother, Keith.
Funeral services were Friday, Sept. 9, 2022, at St. Thomas Lutheran Church, Panora. Burial was in the West Cemetery, Panora. Memorials may be left to the discretion of the family.

OBITUARY
George Ohm

Posted 10/12/2022

George Ramon Ohm, 86, of Yale, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022, while at home surrounded by his family.
He was born on Aug. 2, 1936, in Jefferson to Ramon Irene (Graham) Ohm. He spent his younger years in Coon Rapids.
George was united in marriage to Bev Wood of Scranton on June 17, 1956, in Coon Rapids. The couple started out their early years together in Van Meter, where he worked as a dairy hand and settled down in Yale.
George was the mayor of Yale for eight years following 28 years as a city councilmember as well as a volunteer fireman. He was involved with the restoration and construction work on the Round Gym, helping to obtain grants and city help that allowed them to re-roof, patch the brick siding, install new windows and doors and tear out the false ceiling.
Early in his career, George worked in bridge construction, which led him to the construction of the Lake Panorama dam. Once completed, George was hired by Mid-Iowa Lakes to manage the dam, which he did for more than three decades before retiring. Along with managing the dam, he managed a crew for the construction of the golf course and lake roads. He also managed the Vacation Village built by Mid-Iowa Lakes where potential property owners would stay to tour the lake for property purchases. After CIPCO took ownership from Mid-Iowa Lakes, George also managed grounds that were purchased by CIPCO that became crop-share farmland.
Boxing in his early years drove George to founding and coaching the Yale/YJB Boxing Club, bringing a rare and rewarding sport to the community. They traveled to many cities and surrounding states and obtained championship results.
His other hobbies included trapping, fishing, hunting, bowling, riding motorcycles and hill climbing. He also played and was a pitcher for men’s softball team.
He is survived by his wife, Bev; children, Mike (Paula), Dennis (Susan), Dan, Pat (Diane), Cheryl Ohm (Nick) Balderas and Christie (Rod) Ocker; nine grandchildren, Danielle Ohm, Brad Ohm, Jason Henderson, Justin Ohm, Megan Ohm, Amanda Stradling, Logan Ohm, Dalton Downing and Dylan Downing; 10 great-grandchildren; and siblings, Garlan (Pete), Erin and Charles.
George was preceded in death by his parents; twin sister, Georgie Merical; and brother, Grant.
A celebration of life was held at the Yale Community Building on Saturday, Sept. 24. Twigg Funeral Home, Panora, was entrusted with his arrangements.

OBITUARY
Kelly Wilderman

Posted 10/12/2022

Kelly James Wilderman, 57, entered the Kingdom of Heaven on Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was surrounded by his loved ones.
Dick and Lynne Wilderman welcomed Kelly into the world on June 15, 1965, in Iowa City. Kelly loved telling stories about his childhood and growing up at the A&W. He graduated from East High School and began a long career of 37 years with UPS, and was recently retired. In his retirement, Kelly and his son-in-law, Kody, were looking forward to a global expansion of their nut business, Dick’s Nuts. Kelly and his wife of 29 years, Angie, raised their girls on the lake in Panora.
Kelly absolutely loved family time and being on the boat together or working on a project. He could tackle just about anything, even before there were YouTube videos. He enjoyed cheering on the Packers and going to his girls’ and grandkids’ sporting events. He was always one of the loudest in the stands. He never really understood how “quiet” worked. He had a contagious laugh and was an eternal optimist until the very end.
Kelly was a great friend and always looked forward to Card Club nights and the annual Guys Trip to Kansas City. He also relished in the victory of beating his dad at cribbage — although it probably didn’t happen as much as he would’ve liked. He had many things that were dear to his heart, like Wilderman family vacations, his dogs and his classic cars, but most important to Kelly, was his relationship with Jesus Christ. He always looked forward to going to church each Sunday together as a family.
Kelly was reunited in Heaven with his mom, Lynne (and certainly received the biggest and best hug imaginable); his mother-in-law, Donna Lansman, and her husband, Dave; along with all of the grandparents.
Those still here to cherish his memory are his wife, Angie; daughters, Chantelle Nielsen (Kody), Brianna, and Hope; granddaughters, Harper and Willow Nielsen; his father, Dick (Judy); brother, Mark; sister, Melanie Sesker (Kahl), and their kids, Korbin (Ryley), Aubrey, and Grace; father-in-law, Ken Slothouber (Judie); brother-in-law, Kurt Slothouber (Kelli), and their girls, Jordan and Taylor; and we wouldn’t want to forget A.J. Hawk. We are certain that one day we will all be reunited. We look forward to that day, but, until then, we will live each day the way Kelly did — to the fullest!
A celebration of life service was held on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022, at Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines.
Donations to the family will be given to spread the good news of Jesus Christ.

Q&A:
SOMETIMES THE ANSWER IS YES
And sometimes it is no.

Posted 10/12/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

Lane Rumelhart is in his third year as project manager for the Lake Panorama Association. His duties include managing the LPA building codes, projects financed by the Lake Panorama Rural Improvement Zone (RIZ), LPA communications, the annual deer hunt program, the campgrounds and beaches, and “other duties as assigned.”
Rumelhart says LPA member questions frequently touch on a handful of common topics, which can be answered with a simple yes or no. This month’s Q&A is a compilation of “yes” and “no” questions. In some cases, additional information also is provided.

The Answer is Yes
Will I get a ticket if I speed past a No Wake buoy? YES
Do I have to maintain silt fence on a waterfront project? YES
Am I required to have an LPA boat sticker for my boat/jet ski/canoe/kayak/stand-up paddleboard? YES
Can I take vegetation less than 12 inches in diameter to the brush dump? YES
Does LPA have an informational website? YES (lakepanorama.org)
Is the LPA office open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays? YES
Does LPA have the ability to communicate electronically with the membership on most topics? YES
Does the Fin and Feather club stock fish in the lake every year? YES
May I build a 100-square-foot shed on an undeveloped lot? (To clarify, undeveloped means there is no home on the lot.) YES
Are there restrooms at the beaches? YES (open seasonally)
Do I need a variance to build a home with a roof pitch less than 6/12? YES
Am I required to maintain my shoreline with rip rap that meets SUDAS specifications? YES (SUDAS is short for Statewide Urban Design and Specifications. The Institute for Transportation at Iowa State University maintains Iowa’s SUDAS manuals for public improvements.)
Do I need a recent, recorded and signed survey from a professional surveyor as part of the building permit to build a new home? YES
Do I need a permit to put in a new driveway culvert? YES
Do I need a 911 address sign on my dock? YES (www.iowadnr.gov/boatdocks)
Is the swim platform counted when LPA security measures my boat length? YES

The Answer is No
Can I camp on my undeveloped lot? NO
Will you allow a pontoon boat over 27 feet on the lake? NO
Does LPA have the ability to direct barge companies to service members? NO
Can I put a political sign in my yard? NO
Can I build a boathouse on my lot if there is no boathouse currently on it? NO
Is it acceptable to raise chickens on my lot? NO
How about goats? NO
Is the LPA office ever open on Saturdays? NO
May I build my home closer than 50 feet from the water? NO
Can LPA sell me a piece of community area? NO
Can I put a permanent dock on the community area next to my lot? NO
Would you let me keep my boat docked at one of the three beaches overnight? NO
Can I build a detached garage on my undeveloped lot across the street from my home? NO
Can I use glider kits, self-powered gliders, kites, parasails, kite tubes, flyboards, self-powered hydrofoils, self-powered surfboards or like objects on the lake? NO
May I leave a fire unattended? NO
Does LPA provide a trash disposal service? NO
Does that mean I can throw my trash into dumpsters at the beaches or golf courses or near the LPN conference center? NO
May I build my own boat ramp? NO
Can I put up a privacy fence? NO
Can kids without a valid driver’s license operate a golf cart on LPA roads? NO
Can I build a pole building? NO
Is Lake Panorama governed by the City of Panora? NO
Can I take loads of dirt to the brush dump? NO
Can LPA require my neighbors to be friendly? NO
Will LPA security trap pest animals for me? NO
May I build a 200-square-foot shed on an undeveloped lot? NO
Can I drive a vehicle over 10,000 pounds (5 tons) on LPA roads during the embargo? NO
Can LPA do something to guarantee Lake Panorama will never have a blue green algae bloom? NO
Can I have an above-ground pool? NO
Does LPA have an official connection to Next Door, so if I post a question or comment there, LPA staff will respond? NO
Rumelhart says additional information on many of these questions can be found on the Lake Panorama Association website home page, most likely under the FAQs and Documents drop down tabs. The website is lakepanorama.org. Members also can call the LPA office weekdays 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 641-755-2301, or email lpa@lakepanorama.org.

LPA UPDATES AT GM COFFEE
Rutledge noted leasing the LPN food and beverage operation would be similar to what the LPA has done for many years with the marina.

Posted 10/12/22

About 40 LPA members attended the Sept. 2 GM Coffee to hear updates from John Rutledge, LPA general manager. Rutledge started his report with a review of efforts being made to find someone to lease the food and beverage portion of the Lake Panorama National Resort operation.
“The primary focus of the LPA and LPN boards is to secure a food and beverage vendor, who would be in place by March or April of 2023,” Rutledge said. “We have invested in some advertising to increase our reach to the food and beverage industry throughout Iowa and remain hopeful we can find some viable tenant candidates to interview in the next 60 days.”
Rutledge noted leasing the LPN food and beverage operation would be similar to what the LPA has done for many years with the marina.
“The LPA is committed to having a successful, long-term food and beverage operation at Lake Panorama National. We appreciate everyone’s patience as we work through current challenges to make that happen,” he said.
Turning to the LPA, Rutledge reported a total of 7.65 miles of roads received seal-coat treatment this year, with 3.97 miles on the east side of the lake, and 3.68 miles on the west side. The cost was more than $215,000, a 23.5% increase in cost from 2021. Because of the higher cost, fewer miles of road were treated than has been the case for the past 15 years.
The LPA water safety committee recommended and the board approved a limit on personal marker buoys. Rutledge said members now can have just one marker, which must be high visibility, not larger than 18 inches in diameter, and no farther from shore than the end of the owner’s dock. Members who have personal marker buoys have until the end of the 2022 season to comply with the new rule, with enforcement by LPA security beginning in 2023.
A shortage of available boat lifts has caused some members to look for used lifts.
“If you plan to purchase a lift that has been in another lake, remember the LPA requires a 30-day quarantine, and the lift must be inspected before it can be installed here,” Rutledge said. “It is absolutely critical to the health of Lake Panorama for everyone to abide by our invasive species rules.”
Work to bore a new water main under the lake from Sunset Beach to the east side was to begin shortly after Labor Day and should be complete this fall. Rutledge said total cost of this project could reach $400,000. The old water line that was installed before the lake existed will be abandoned once the new line is in place. Another old water line near Christmas Tree Point still needs to be replaced, and plans are in the works to re-establish a line from the west side of the lake to the Boulder Beach area.
A recent inspection of the Lake Panorama dam “did not raise any red flags. We’re very happy with the report, considering the dam is now more than 50 years old,” Rutledge said. “Some short-term maintenance items that will cost less than $200,000 were identified, with another $200,000 in additional items that will need to be done over the next three to five years.”
Rutledge outlined a rule change on what items can be stored on undeveloped lots without homes. The rule now is more specific and is under the category of “Property Care” in the LPA rules and regulations.
The rule states: “Boat/PWC trailers, and boats, PWCs, and non-enclosed utility trailers are the only property that may be stored on undeveloped lots. Utility trailers must have a current registration displayed, be open in design, not longer than a 14’ model, and be completely empty. Recreational vehicles, campers, motor vehicles, enclosed trailers, dump trailers and other equipment storage are prohibited on undeveloped lots.”
A radar sign that flashes a motorist’s speed has been purchased for use by LPA security. It can be mounted on the same posts as speed limit signs within the Lake Panorama community or on a movable trailer.
“The plan is to move this around to various locations,” Rutledge said. “We aren’t trying to use it to write speeding tickets; in fact, we’ll be happy if no fines are collected because of this new tool. What we want to do is use it to correct behavior.”
With the annual LPA deer hunting program beginning Oct. 1, Rutledge reviewed results of the 2021 program. Last year there were a total of 100 hunters, with 72 of those being LPA members and 28 being guests of members. A total of 119 antlerless deer were harvested, and hunters were provided with 73 free deer tags. Since guest hunters pay a fee, the net cost of the program in 2021 was $680.
“We’re proud of how this program operates and how LPA is able to reach our goals for managing the Lake Panorama deer population in an ethical manner,” Rutledge said.
Results of a membership survey regarding low-impact recreational amenities that could be made available on the south shore of the lake’s main basin were reviewed. At its August meeting, the LPA board approved plans presented by Friends of Lake Panorama to enhance existing walking trails and allow the Panorama schools cross country teams to use trails on the south shore. Friends of Lake Panorama representatives and LPA staff will continue to discuss disc golf, a shelter house and a fishing dock, and Friends will return to the LPA board in spring of 2023 with related recommendations.
“No commercial or residential development is planned,” Rutledge said. “And no substantial removal of trees will be done. Trees that do need removed will be scrub trees or dead trees. We will retain mature hardwood trees unless we absolutely have to remove an isolated tree.”
Turning to RIZ, Rutledge said a pre-bid meeting to outline plans to repair the rip rap along the south shore was well attended. The project is estimated at about $750,000. LPA will sign an agreement with RIZ that in return for this investment, the south shore will not be used for anything beyond recreational purposes for the next 15 years. Completion of this work is expected late this year or early spring of 2023.
Rutledge reviewed some ongoing projects being funded by RIZ. Expansion of the old CIPCO basin, which has been renamed the 180th Trail Basin, is underway. This expanded sediment basin is where dredging spoils will go once the current basin is full. Two additional wetlands also are in the planning stages.
The fiscal year 2022-23 RIZ budget includes about $3 million of annual tax increment financing (TIF) revenue. RIZ is a government entity and is managed by a board of five trustees.
One more GM coffee is scheduled for 2022. It will be Friday, Dec. 2 at 10:30 a.m. at the LPN conference center.

LAKESHORE FAMILY DENTISTRY NEARS 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY
Dr. Spray credits two local businesses for making it possible for him to start a practice right out of dental school.

Posted 10/12/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

Lakeshore Family Dentistry, owned by Dr. Larry Spray, is nearing its 10th anniversary in Panora. Groundbreaking for the building at 709 East Main was held Oct. 6, 2012, an event Spray missed because of the birth of his first child the night before. The business opened April 2, 2013.
Spray says he knew from a young age he wanted to be in the healthcare field.
“Initially, I wanted to be a physician, but my youngest sister suffered from a tumor on her jaw bone that resulted in lots of treatment from oral surgeons and dentists to repair her jaw,” he says. “This was an eye-opening experience, although it didn’t solidify my decision.”
Spray grew up in Dallas Center, graduated from Dallas Center-Grimes High School, and attended Simpson College in Indianola.
“I took a year off after graduating from Simpson, debating between medical and dental school,” he says. “The work-life balance of a dentist seemed more appealing, so I went that route.”
Next up was the University of Iowa College of Dentistry.
“I started the practice in Panora right out of dental school,” Spray says. “I filled in here and there for other dentists, but once I graduated, we broke ground on the building.”
Spray credits local businesses Panora Fiber and Downing Construction for making it possible for him to start a practice right out of dental school.
“Panora Fiber helped secure a USDA loan that focuses on getting people to practice in rural areas. The money that was paid back now is in a fund that can be loaned again to others, in an effort to encourage growth,” he says. “Downing Construction had an investor who paid for the building, and I leased it back. Both of these were very helpful to me, and I would not have been able to start a practice without it.”
Spray says he is glad he was able to build his business in Panora.
“Being in Panora reminds me a lot of growing up in a small community. The hustle and bustle of a large city is not something I am familiar with,” he says. “The community is great because everyone supports everybody. Small businesses support other small businesses. There is a general interest in seeing that everyone succeeds.”
Most of the patients for Lakeshore Family Dentistry live in Guthrie County.
“Occasionally there will be a patient who is visiting Lake Panorama from further away who has an issue, but, in general, most are from Guthrie County, with some from Dallas County.”
Spray and his wife, Mallory, live west of Dallas Center. Mallory is a fourth-grade teacher at Dallas Center-Grimes. The couple has four children — Parker, Lincoln, Reagan and Spencer — and two German shorthaired pointers, Cooper and Tucker.
“We spend most of our time running kids to sporting events,” Spray says. “In the off chance I’m not at a child’s event, I can be found outdoors, exercising and training for my first triathlon, or volunteering for True Impact Outdoors, a nonprofit organization that takes disabled veterans hunting.”
Spray has five employees who help keep the dental practice running smoothly. Sue Bump is a dental assistant who has been with Spray since Lakeshore Family Dentistry opened. Bump assists Spray with dental procedures.
Misean Hernandez, a dental hygienist, has been with the practice more than six years. Kassidy Voss, also a dental hygienist, has been at Lakeshore for a year. Amanda Vogel also has been with the practice about a year. She assists with dental procedures and fills in at the front desk. New to the practice is Samantha Wilson, who works at the front desk.
Spray says people should be seen by a dentist every six months, although those with periodontal concerns should see a dentist more frequently. He recommends young children make their first visit to a dentist when the first tooth comes in, or at least by their first birthday.
Lakeshore Family Dentistry is accepting new patients and has recently started offering Invisalign orthodontic treatment. The office is open Monday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The office is closed each Wednesday. The phone number is 641-755-3030.

NEW WATER MAIN BEING INSTALLED WEST TO EAST

Posted 10/12/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

A bid of $295,000 was accepted June 17 to bore a new water main under Lake Panorama from Sunset Beach to the east side. The winning bidder was TIMCO, a company based in Oklahoma. The TIMCO bid was much lower than what both engineers had estimated, and lower than competing bidders, because the company was already mobilized in Iowa for projects in Council Bluffs and Guthrie Center. Total cost of this project, including design and engineering, is estimated at $400,000.
This line will connect to the existing water main on the east side of the lake in the 4300 range of Panorama Drive. TIMCO mobilized to the site after Labor Day and drilling began soon after. Once the new line is in place, the old water line installed before the lake existed will be abandoned. Completion is expected the week of Oct. 17.
This project is similar to the last water crossing installation that took place in 2020 in Burchfield Cove. Another old water line near Christmas Tree Point needs to be replaced, and plans are in the works to re-establish a line from the west side of the lake to the Boulder Beach area.
These water crossing projects are part of an ongoing effort to update critical infrastructure and improve the Lake Panorama Association water distribution system.

Flu and COVID booster shot clinic Oct. 14

Posted 10/12/22

Guthrie County Public Health is holding a Flu and COVID booster shot clinic at Lake Panorama Conference Center on Friday, Oct. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The COVID booster shot is Pfizer. Guthrie County Public Health has advised this booster is compatible with previous vaccines, even if those original shots were not Pfizer.
Anyone interested should call Guthrie County Public Health at 641-747-3972 to schedule a time. Bring insurance card for flu shots.

Beach and golf course outdoor restrooms to close by Oct. 31

Posted 10/12/22

Restrooms at Boulder, Shady and Sunset Beach, the two Panorama West restrooms on the course and the course restrooms at the LPN will be closed by Oct. 31 and winterized for the season.

PANORAMA WEST NATURE TRAIL SLATED FOR COMPLETION THIS FALL

Posted 10/12/22
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

The final pieces of a project that received 2021 Beach Ball funding are expected to fall into place in the next few weeks. A total of $5,000 was committed to the Panorama West Nature Trail, plus some private donations were received.
A survey conducted in April 2019 by Friends of Lake Panorama showed strong LPA member interest in walking trails at Lake Panorama. A Friends board task force was created to explore options. It was decided an existing trail being used by a limited number of people and the Panorama school’s cross country teams would be perfect as a designated nature trail.
Approval by the LPA board at its August meeting to allow the school to move cross country practices and meets to the south shore means the Panorama West trail won’t be used by the school after the 2022 season.
Seven trail marker posts with directional signage to keep users on the official trail, a trailhead sign, and two street signs for Nicholl Drive will be installed by LPA maintenance staff in the near future.
Parking for the Panorama West Nature Trail is in a cul-de-sac at the end of Nicholl Drive, which intersects with Panorama Road just south of the Panorama West clubhouse. The trailhead sign that will be installed near the parking area features a drawing of the trail created by Dan Badding.
At the three-quarters mile mark, there is an optional three-quarters of a mile loop. Those who use the official trail, plus the optional loop, will complete 2.25 miles. Two backless benches recently were installed along the trail.
The trail winds through grassy open areas and timber, and does not cross any portion of the golf course or roadways. For safety reasons, and in compliance with current LPA rules, users of the trail may include hikers, runners, cross-country skiers and dogwalkers, but no motorized vehicles.
At its Sept. 19 meeting, the Friends of Lake Panorama board reviewed the financials for the Panorama West Nature Trail. Because of the level of private donations received for this project, only $2,000 of the $5,000 allocated from the 2021 Beach Ball was needed. The remaining $3,000 will be moved to a fund for the trail network being developed on Lake Panorama’s south shore.

Check out the Haunted Village on Oct. 16
Guthrie County Historical Village offers a children’s Halloween activity.

Posted 10/12/22
Join the Guthrie County Historical Village on Sunday, Oct. 16 from 5-7 p.m. for the ever-popular Haunted Village, as the Historical Village turns into a Haunted Village for little ghosts and goblins.
This event has been held more than 15 years, and activities for the evening include games, fortunes, tattoos, stickers, treats, storytelling, the haunted museum and a hay ride. New activities this year will include “The Fur Case” by Guthrie County Conservation and a Haunted Recital by the piano students of Rachee’ Lombard.
Several local organizations work together for this event including Little Panther Daycare, Panora P.E.T.S., Lakeside Village, Panora Lions Club, W.F.P.F., Guthrie County Conservation, and the GCHV Foundation. This is a popular event with more than 200 children attending in past years.
The Haunted Village is for children fifth grade and younger. All children must be accompanied by an adult and must stay with their adult at all times. Admission is free. Costumes, even for adults, are encouraged and don’t forget to bring a bag for all of the goodies.
The Guthrie County Historical Village is located at 206 W. South St. in Panora. Learn more at thegchv.com.

FRIENDS OF LAKE PANORAMA BOARD ALLOCATES 2022 BEACH BALL FUNDS
Basketball court will be expanded to include pickleball.

Posted 10/12/22
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

The Friends of Lake Panorama’s Beach Ball July 22 had a profit of $30,000. At its Sept. 19 meeting, the Friends board of directors decided some funds will be used for projects to be completed this fall, with remaining funds set aside for future projects.
The Friends board earmarked $17,500 of 2022 Beach Ball proceeds for a basketball half-court at Sunset Beach. The LPA board approved this project at its June 2021 meeting. Now, plans have expanded to make it possible for those interested to also play pickleball on the court.
The idea of expanding the basketball court to include pickleball was raised at an informational meeting at Sunset Beach earlier this summer. Plans for a 40-foot by 50-foot court were underway, but going to 40-feet by 60-feet makes it possible to accommodate pickleball. A portable net on wheels will be stored to one side of the court.
Sport Construction Midwest, headquartered in Adel, was the vendor for the Boulder Beach sports courts and now is assisting with the Sunset Beach sports court. Once the concrete pad is ready, company employees will install a new Goalsetter MVP hoop, place sports court tile on the concrete, and paint lines for both basketball and pickleball. An 8-foot-high fence and one gate will finish off this project.
Mark and Karen Einck, who matched donations of $25,000 for the Boulder Beach basketball court, now have donated $25,000 for the Sunset Beach court. Another $5,000 in donations also has been received. Donations for this project will continue to be accepted through Nov. 1, with donors of $500 or more recognized on a sign at the court. If more money is raised than needed for the court, extra funds will be used for one or more benches near the court.
Construction on the new sports court at Sunset Beach will begin in October, and weather permitting, the project will be done this fall.
The Friends board also voted to use $4,500 raised at the 2022 Beach Ball to purchase benches and trees for the Lake Panorama dog park. Two metal benches and four Autumn Blaze Maples from Isom Tree Farm have been purchased. The 6-foot benches will be placed on concrete pads, with one near each of the two sugar maple trees donated and planted a year ago by Isom Tree Farm.
Larry Isom installed the four new maple trees Oct. 7, volunteering his time to plant and water the trees. Two went into each side of the dog park and are planted so the three trees on each side will form a canopy of shade as they mature.
The dog park, which opened June 10, is available during daylight hours. There are two sides, one for large dogs and one for small dogs. It is at the corner of Sage Trail and East RV Road, near the east campground. The park was financed by $50,000 in donations through the Friends of Lake Panorama.
The remaining 2022 Beach Ball profits will be held in reserve until these projects are complete. Additional allocations will be made at a later date, with at least some going to support enhancements to the walking and cross country trail network on Lake Panorama’s south shore.
Tax-deductible donations to the Sunset Beach sports court, the south shore trail system, or the Friends general fund can be made at any time by check payable to Friends and mailed to Friends of Lake Panorama, P.O. Box 488, Panora, Iowa, 50216. Donations also can be made using Venmo to @Panorama-Friends, or by credit card on the Friends website at friendsoflakepanorama.org.

RECIPE
Simple Family Meals Fit for Fall

Posted 10/12/2022
By Jolene Goodman
Lake Panorama Times

(Family Features) Maintaining a healthy eating plan can be challenging year-round, and busier fall schedules can make those goals even more difficult. Finding easy-to-make favorites can keep you and your loved ones on track as you navigate those hectic moments this autumn.
One simple yet delicious solution: Chopped Salad Kits and Sheet Pan Meal Starter Kits from Dole, which make it easy to incorporate vegetables without the hassle of kitchen prep. Take the guesswork out of meal planning for your time-starved family with these limited-ingredient, kit-based dishes.
Mexican Street Corn Bowls with Grilled Chicken provide a perfect balance of hearty yet nutritious flavor while taking advantage of the convenience of prepackaged ingredients. Perfect for fall weather, Roasted Chicken and Vegetable Soup requires just three ingredients and hungry loved ones for a filling meal worth celebrating.
For more original easy-to-make fall recipes, nutritional insights and information, visit Dole.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

Roasted Chicken and Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

1 Dole Homestyle Roasted Herb Sheet Pan Meal Starter Kit
1 container (32 ounces) chicken broth
1 cup whole-wheat pasta shells, cooked

Prepare sheet pan meal starter kit according to package instructions. Transfer to cutting board and carefully cut chicken and vegetables into 1/2-inch pieces.
In medium saucepot over medium-high heat, bring chicken broth to simmer. Stir in pasta shells, chicken and vegetables. Reduce heat to medium. Cook five minutes, or until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Trish Hart’s nature photo of the month
SEPTEMBER HARVEST MOON SHINES BRIGHT

Posted 10/12/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

On Sept. 8, using her Panasonic digital camera, Lake Panorama photographer Trish Hart captured the 2022 September Harvest Moon as it rose in the east. The Harvest Moon is the full moon closest to the September equinox, which marks the sun’s crossing above Earth’s equator, moving from north to south. For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, that happened this year Sept. 22.
It’s believed the name “Harvest Moon” came from farmers in the Northern Hemisphere, in the days before tractor lights, as the September moon helped them continue their work past sunset. The name was popularized by the 1903 song “Shine On Harvest Moon.”
It seems these September Harvest Moons are bigger and more orange, but that’s not true. Often, we look at a full moon shortly after sunset, when it’s near the horizon. It’s that location near the horizon that makes the Harvest Moon look bigger. The orange color is a physical effect, because when we look toward the horizon, we’re looking through a greater thickness of Earth’s atmosphere than when we look up and overhead.
Hart offers custom prints of her photos on canvas, paper, metal and glass. Learn more by visiting Nature’s Canvas Photography on Facebook.

COVE CAT

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Posted 10/12/2022
By Cheryl Temple
Lake Panorama Times

Name: Leo
Age: 8
Breed: golden retriever
Owner: Dillon Temple

Name: Charity
Age: 2-3
Breed: tortoiseshell tabby

Charity and her litter of kittens were found by an elderly couple on April 15 (Tax Day). They took care of the family until Panora Pets was able to take them in. They named her Charity, and all her kittens were given tax-themed names. Charity is a low-maintenance, gentle and mild-mannered kitty. She enjoys other gentle kitties, too! Meet Charity at Panora Pets.

LAKE DOG

Posted 10/12/2022
By Cheryl Temple
Lake Panorama Times

Name: Leo
Age: 8
Breed: golden retriever
Owner: Dillon Temple

Leo enjoys coming to Lake Panorama for the weekends and is a great greeter to those coming into Party Cove. With his fluffy tail wagging, he runs down the dock to greet visitors. Leo prides himself in keeping the cove clean by retrieving the floating logs. Leo’s biggest pet peeve is not being able to swim due to the green algae.

AND THE MUSIC PLAYS ON AND ON
In 2023, the band Rukkus will celebrate 40 years.

Posted 9/2/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

In the fall of 1973, four eighth-grade students brought their guitars and drums to their Perry Junior High School dance to provide live music. Nearly 50 years later, three of those guys still are making music together, plus, one now has his children and grandchildren in the band, too.
Mark Einck and his wife Karen both grew up in Perry. They still have their primary home there, plus a second home at Lake Panorama they purchased 24 years ago.
For that dance, Einck wasn’t a regular member of the band. It was Jim Wuebker and Joel Wilson on guitars and Larry Nichols on drums. They played mostly Beatles, Moody Blues and other songs from the 1960s and early 1970s.
The hit movie “American Graffiti” had just been released, and its theme song was “Rock Around the Clock” by Bill Haley and the Comets. Another popular song on the radio was “Angie” by the Rolling Stones. Einck, who played guitar, had learned those two songs, and the other three boys asked him to get up and play them at the dance.
“Those songs went over so well, I ended up singing and playing them three times that night,” says Einck. “The next day, the guys asked me to join the band. They soon recruited a friend to play bass and another to play keyboards, and the band PHYX was officially formed.”
That summer, the bass and keyboard players left. Rather than continue with three guitar players, Einck made the move to bass. His dad worked for a finance company that had just repossessed a Fender Precision Bass for $75, so he had his bass guitar.
The first public performance for PHYX was in the spring of 1975 at the St. Patrick’s gym in Perry. Their first big payday was July 4, 1975, at a small bar in Yale called The Place. The band was hired for $180, so each member made $45.
“That was huge for us,” Einck says. “Since none of us were old enough to drive, the parents who had pickups were our road crew. We played several more private functions that year and were making a name for ourselves, but we needed a real PA system.”
Parents drove the band members to Victor’s House of Music in Des Moines, where they picked out a new Peavey PA system, complete with monitors and microphones. The price tag was $2,000.
“That was way more than we had between us,” Einck says. “At a meeting of all four sets of parents, it was agreed Joel’s dad would cosign a loan from the bank, with open payment terms. Every time we played, we put that money toward the note.”
The guys were getting their name out, and while playing around Perry was OK, they finally booked a gig in Westside for homecoming in 1976 and were asked back in 1977. They also played for Boone’s homecoming in 1977.
“Things were going great and then one month before we all graduated in 1978, Larry quit school and moved to Florida,” Einck says. “We played one last gig with Joel taking over the drumming duties and Shaun Stokely joined for a short stint on keys. That gig was the night before I left for college at Buena Vista, and Joel went to DMACC. A month later, Jim got married, and we didn’t know if we’d ever play together again.”
Toward the end of the college school year, Wilson had found a young guitar player and a drummer, both still in high school. When Einck got home from college, those four resurrected PHYX for a second run. At the same time, Wuebker hooked up with a drummer, Dana Keenan, and found a bass player, and their band was Gemstone. The two bands played together for the next three years.
PHYX bought an old school bus and converted the front of it to a living area, with the back for the equipment. They played for proms, homecomings, weddings and community events, as well as the bar circuit. With Einck and Wilson still in college, only weekends were available, but the band usually played somewhere three out of four weekends.
While the two younger members wanted to make this their living, Einck and Wilson didn’t. After a final bash in May of 1982, the two younger band members left for Oklahoma, and Einck and Wilson went to work.
Later in 1982, Wuebker and Keenan were not getting along with their bass player, so they called Einck and Wilson to see if they had an interest in joining them.
“I was an accounting major, but my minor was in music,” Einck says. “After a couple of jam sessions together, the remnants of PHYX and Gemstone combined to form Rukkus. The first time this band played publicly was at my and Karen’s wedding reception in June 1983. We only played four songs, but we were ready to do more.”
When Van Halen came out with “Jump” in 1984, the band decided they needed a keyboard. Einck bought one, and the band incorporated “Jump” and other new songs into their repertoire. The band wouldn’t have a full-time keyboard player for another 12 years or so, because he wasn’t born yet.
Rukkus bought a newer bus that is the subject of many stories the band members still share. For instance, losing the brakes in Fort Dodge, having the transmission stuck in low gear at the Botanical Center, blowing a tire coming home from Ames, and having the exhaust system break off at the manifold in Atlantic.
In the spring of 1988, Einck was offered a new job, which was more demanding of his time. He also was going back to school that fall at Drake University to work on his MBA. The boys agreed they had had a great five-year run, and they got to go out at the top of their game. After a Friday night at Ferg’s in Grand Junction and a Saturday night wedding reception at Lake Panorama, Rukkus was officially retired.
The four band members all remained great friends and stayed in touch, but family and work took up the majority of their time. However, for the guy without kids, a new band was in his future.
Joel Wilson, better known by now as JC, was one of the founding members of the Flying Marsupials. That band toured from 1989 to 2003, considered one of Des Moines’ favorite bands for much of the 1990s. Their first gig was a wedding reception, but they only had enough material for half the show. The Rukkus boys agreed to play the first half of the gig, and the Flying Marsupials played the second half.
Rukkus was asked to play for drummer Dana’s uncle’s birthday party. The problem was, Wilson was already booked with the Marsupials. A young kid who had taken piano lessons for the last seven years and had become a really good lead guitar player stepped in — Einck’s son, Ben. Ben became a permanent member of the band at 14 and was the keyboard player first and foremost. But if Wilson was with the Supes, he was the lead guitar player.
Rukkus slowly accumulated enough gear to do larger shows and began playing six to eight times a year through the end of the 1990s and into the new century. Mark’s daughter, Emily, began singing with the band in the early 2000s.
During Ben’s high school years, he and some other classmates formed a group called Feedback, with Eric McLeod as the band’s drummer. In 2010, Rukkus drummer Keenan’s battle with alcoholism was getting the better of him, and McLeod started traveling with the band. While Keenan continued to be the starting drummer, he often would ask McLeod to finish the sets. In 2012, Keenan played his last show with Rukkus at Perry’s Friday Fest, and McLeod took over drumming duties.
McLeod joined the Iowa Army National Guard during his junior year at Perry High School and has served for more than 18 years. He is now based at the Army Aviation Support Facility in Davenport as an instructor pilot, currently mobilized in the southwest United States, and will return near the end of this year.
“I grew up with Ben as one of my closest friends and was a drummer for Ben’s band during high school,” McLeod says. “I was over at the Eincks’ a lot using Rukkus’ drum set for practice and for any performances our band had. Feedback sometimes would play a few opening songs for Rukkus at their performances, and I would have opportunities to play select songs with Rukkus as a guest drummer.
“They are all family to me,” McLeod continues. “It’s been an absolute honor that they accepted me to play drums for them when they could easily have chosen someone else. I really enjoy the genres of music we play and the chance to perform with my family, who are all incredibly talented musicians.”
JC Wilson has vivid memories of the early days.
“We were unassuming about the future; we were just being a band and having fun doing it,” he says. “I don’t remember anyone aspiring to make the big time. We just got together on a regular basis to rehearse and perform because of the camaraderie.”
Wilson is the one band member who has come closest to making the “big time.” Over the Labor Day weekend, he received the 2022 Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award. He was already a member of the association’s Hall of Fame after being inducted in 2016 as a founding member of the Flying Marsupials.
Jim Wuebker says he and Wilson started playing guitars together when they were 5 years old.
“What got me interested in playing was all the different guitars and amps,” he says. “Throughout all my years, it has been a goal for me to keep on sounding better either with new equipment or more practice. I’ve truly enjoyed trying out different amps and guitars.”
Wuebker says when Mark Einck joined the band, things changed.
“The band now had a different sound, and it was fun playing as a group and playing for people and friends,” he says. “The band became a group of friends I still really enjoy playing music with and have a very close relationship with. They are my closest friends.
“I feel if we hadn’t played together for all these years, my life would have been completely different,” Wuebker says. “But I wouldn’t have changed any of it. Playing with these guys, for our fans, and even someone listening for the first time, is a thrill. My goal is to play until I’m 70, and to just keep having fun and enjoy life.”
Ben’s two oldest sons, John, age 11, and Will, age 10, are both taking piano lessons, and John has ventured to the guitar.
“Like Ben, John and Will have grown up around Rukkus their entire life,” Mark Einck says. “Over the last two years, they both have joined us on stage. John sings and plays guitar on ‘Take it Easy,’ and Will sings ‘All These Things That I Have Done’ by the Killers. They absolutely steal the show.”
A niece, Katie Hermann, is an occasional vocalist. Another addition to the band is Mark’s nephew Nick Hermann.
“Nick is one of those people who can play any instrument,” Einck says. “We asked him to learn the banjo, and he did. We asked him to learn the fiddle, and he did. When Ben jumps on guitar when we need a third guitar, Nick takes over on keys.”
“I grew up watching and emulating Rukkus. I wanted to do what they did,” says Ben Einck. “I started learning piano at age 7 and picked up a guitar at 12. I came home every day from school for years and just played, played, played.”
“As I reflect 23 years later, for them to consider me and eventually accept me as a member of the band, I’m fortunate,” Ben says. “I can’t think of anyone who has a similar relationship with their dad and his closest friends. Their constant openness and attitudes make this band what it is today, 40 years later, and why we continue to book shows.”
Ben admits to “proud dad moments” when his sons John and Will are on stage.
“Neither has fear to get in front of hundreds of people,” he says. “Our 8-year-old daughter Andi and 4-year-old son Henry both show interest in following our footsteps. I’ll continue to encourage their passions and hope to see music flourish for them as it has for me. I hope Rukkus will see another 40 years and honor its founders.”
Rukkus has proven its staying power. In 1984, the band played for a wedding reception for Russ and Lori Hawley at the Starlite in Fort Dodge. In 2013, they played for the Hawleys’ son’s wedding reception in Des Moines.
RAGBRAI made a stop in Perry in 1986, and the city asked Rukkus to perform.
“It was one of the highlights of our career,” Einck says. “We were asked by the City of Le Mars this summer to play for RAGBRAI when it stopped there July 24. But two of the guys had family vacations planned, so we opted for family time over show time. But it’s pretty awesome that 35 years after playing our first RAGBRAI, we still are around to even be asked.”
The band limits its schedule to a handful of gigs a year, but they still draw big crowds. They are regulars at Perry’s Friday Fest in the summer, The Port on Lake Panorama, Fourth of July celebration in Yale, class reunions and private events.
Mark Einck says Wuebker and Wilson are like brothers to him.
“I don’t have a brother, so these guys have really been my brothers for 50 years. It’s rare that we have any disagreements. We were each other’s best men in our weddings,” he says. “I will always be in the band as long as I can sing, although hitting all the high notes isn’t as easy as it once was.”
In 2023, Einck, Wuebker and Wilson will have been bandmates for 50 years, and Rukkus will celebrate 40 years. Given the current lineup of young and old, it seems people will be entertained by Rukkus for many years to come.

2022 PANORAMA DAYS IN THE BOOKS
Despite high temperatures and high humidity, good crowds participated in all aspects of this year’s celebration.

Posted 9/2/2022
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.
Now what began as a single day stretches over three days. The theme for the 2022 celebration Aug. 5-7 was “Rolling Into Panorama Days.” Despite high temperatures and high humidity, good crowds participated in all aspects of this year’s celebration.
There were 36 players in the annual Friday afternoon cribbage tournament. The $5 per person entry fees were donated to support Panorama Days. Bill Eby and Stine Seed provided prize money, popcorn and caps. Mark Kopaska took first place by winning all four games. Second place went to Karen Eby, with Rex Schoonover in third and Jason Berry finishing fourth. Kelsey Pettitt had the high hand of 24.
A ribbon cutting was held at the Guthrie County Historical Village and Museum for the restored Pullman Train Car. An open house followed with free refreshments and tours of the car and the village.
At the town square, the Bill Riley Talent Show began at 6 p.m. In the senior division, Libby Ashworth qualified for the talent show at the Iowa State Fair with her dance solo. In the sprouts division, Hanna Depriest and Sophia Miller qualified for the state competition with their dance duet. Performances by the Main Street Dance Studio followed the talent show.
Emerson Bendickson, daughter of Erin and Jacob Bendickson, was named Little Miss Panorama Days. Grant Leo, son of Nels and Karla Leo, was named Little Mister Panorama Days.
About 20 cars and drivers took part in the Friday night Cruise the Loop, sponsored by Panora Auto Parts. Friday night closed with a street dance with live music provided by Charm School Dropouts, sponsored by Wood Duck Landscapes.
Saturday’s activities started at 5 a.m. with a bass fishing tournament on Lake Panorama, sponsored by Fin and Feather. Thirteen boats entered the tournament, which was a five-fish (smallmouth or largemouth bass), 15-inch minimum event.
First place went to Mike and Jake Lauzon for their five bass that weighed 12.57 pounds. Second place went to Scott and Thad Stanley for their five bass weighing in at 10.99 pounds. In third place were Jared Brinker and Curtis Sellers, who caught four fish, weighing 8.65 pounds.
The Panorama Days 5K run/walk, sponsored by Reshape, had 91 participants. The overall winner was 17-year-old Kal Hoppe of Clive, with a time of 17 minutes and 21 seconds. Kole Steiner of Guthrie Center finished second, and Bo Arrasmith of Guthrie Center took third. Hoppe also won the 10-19 age bracket, with 16-year-old Arrasmith in second place in that age category.
Mason Crees of Panora won the 0-9 age bracket. Kole Steiner of Guthrie Center won the 20-29 age bracket. In the 30-39 age bracket, Kari Crevier Dooley of Brookings, South Dakota, took first place. Jessica Carney of Adair won the 40-49 age bracket. In the 50-59 age bracket, Curtis Thornberry took first place, and Erin Nanke took second place, both from Panora. In the 70-79 age bracket, Wilbur Bates took first place, with Linda Wendl taking second, both of Panora.
The annual parade was filled with fire trucks, antique tractors, political candidates, the Iowa State University cheerleaders and their mascot Cy, Panorama School groups and more.
Parade winners in the commercial category were Panora Fiber in first place, Panora Auto Parts in second, and Guthrie County State Bank in third. In the organization category, the Panora Garden Club won first place, followed by Hope Lutheran in second and the Panorama Ski Team in third.
The Citizen of the Year award was presented to Tom and Ellen Campbell of Panora, who were recognized for their many years serving the community. Tom spent 50 years as a member of the Panora fire department. Ellen has been involved in the Panora Christian Church, Women for Panora’s Future, and many other community organizations.
The Panora Garden Club won a special award for 2022 and was presented with a plaque recognizing the “beautification and betterment” the club has provided to Panora and Lake Panorama.
The cutest baby contest, sponsored by Lakeside Village, took place Saturday at the gazebo. After several cute babies were presented, judges chose Henry Jacob Allspach, son of Jake and Ashlie Allspach, as the cutest of the cute.
The Lake Panorama Ski Team show began at 2:30 p.m., with viewing from the south shore. The ski team started in 1985 when a group of friends whose passion for skiing led them to start a show performance team. This was the team’s 38th annual performance. It included 34 skiers ranging in age from 4 to 68, performing 20 acts.
This year’s show was titled “Ski Story,” in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the first person to water ski. Ralph Samuelson was 18 years old and living in Lake City, Minnesota, when he used a pair of boards as skis and a clothesline as a towrope to ski behind his brother’s boat on Lake Pepin on July 2, 1922.
The “Ski Story” theme also had a “Toy Story” spin, with characters such as Buzz Lightyear, Woody and others from the “Toy Story” movie appearing. Performances included pyramids, swivel skiing, barefoot skiing, a girls’ line, a slinky dog and many more.
Saturday closed with fireworks from the lake’s south shore, sponsored by the Lake Panorama Association.
Festivities wrapped up Sunday. The annual Panorama Alumni golf tournament was held at the Panorama West golf course, and a gospel music festival and ice cream social at the Brethren Church.
The ninth annual Panorama Days kids’ fishing derby took place at the Lake Panorama marina Sunday morning with 82 children participating. Registration was free courtesy of the Lake Panorama Fin and Feather club. Four age groups competed, with trophies given in each age group for smallest and largest fish. The top three overall with the biggest fish also got a trophy and cash prize.
Scott Stanley, who organizes the kids’ fishing derby, says almost $2,000 worth of trophies, prizes and cash were awarded to participants.
“I saw many smiles and shouts of excitement,” he says. “It was a great day and I’m glad the fish decided to cooperate!”
In the 3-5 age group, Madden Litter had the smallest fish and Theodore Grossman had the biggest fish. In the 6-8 age group, Vander Emick had the smallest fish, and Blake Stanley caught the biggest fish. In the 9-11 age category, Alyssa Stanley caught the smallest fish and Maverick Opp had the biggest. Faith Larsen had the smallest fish in the ages 12-13 category, with Lillie Lauzon catching the biggest fish.
In the overall biggest fish competition, which earned the winner an additional trophy and cash prize, first place and $60 went to Blake Stanley for his 22.25-inch flathead catfish. Second place and $40 went to Lillie Lauzon for her 19.25-inch largemouth bass. Avery Allspach won $20 for third place with a 17-inch channel catfish.
Besides the Lake Panorama Fin and Feather, sponsors for the kids’ derby included Tristan West, owner of T-Dogg’s Bait & Tackle, who contributed 25 dozen nightcrawlers and prizes; Guthrie County Pheasants Forever Chapter, $500 cash donation; Bill and Karen Eby, cookies; and Steve and Rita Brannen, who donated the overall big fish cash prizes.

ON THE LAKE
The county fair, solitude, live music and ‘orms’

Posted 9/2/2022
By Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher

I attended my first Guthrie County Fair this week, and I was greatly impressed. As a child, I attended the Kossuth County Fair every year in my hometown of Algona. I was a city boy and never truly appreciated the work of the 4-H and FFA kids who couldn’t wait for their time to shine. I was more into the carnival rides, demolition derbies, live music and, well, let’s be honest — chasing girls. By the looks of what I saw from the youth at the fairgrounds, not much has changed. Meanwhile, there was something for everyone, regardless of backgrounds or interests. If you missed the fair, be sure to put it on your schedule for next year.

Quietness and solitude
With the county fair complete, that means Labor Day weekend has come and gone as well. With that, many part-timers at the lake call it a year. For parents with young kids who are back in school, the priorities shift as schedules become more demanding. For empty-nesters like Jolene and me, we appreciate the quietness and solitude as much as we do the liveliness and the crowds. At Lake Panorama, it’s all good.

Going green
I like my grass green. My lake water? Not so much. Some longtime lake residents say the blue-green algae is as bad as they have ever seen it. Others say it is par for the course. The good news is that the most recent tests showed low levels of microcystin, and the LPA lifted its swim advisory. Of course, this can rapidly change, so stay tuned and be cautious.

Live music continues
It seems like most every weekend, some lake resident has had live music playing and has invited everyone to anchor and listen. We have taken advantage of this and enjoy it very much. Thank you to all of you who have paid for the bands and provided this entertainment. Now if we could just get the rains to hold off for a few hours while the musicians play.

Subscribe to the Times Vedette
If you are a subscriber to our weekly Times Vedette newspaper, I thank you, as those subscriptions also help us invest in the Lake Panorama Times. If you are not yet a subscriber, I ask that you write a check for $34 now and mail it to Big Green Umbrella Media, 8101 Birchwood Court, Suite D, Johnston, Iowa 50131 or visit www.guthriecountynewspapers.com and order online. I appreciate your support of our local brands of journalism.

Lake humor
John and Daryl were fishing on Lake Panorama. John looked at Daryl and saw that he had a full bucket of fish and asked him, “Hey, Daryl, how did you catch so many fish, and I’m sitting here with nothing?”
“Eep or orms orm,” Daryl mumbled.
“What?” John asked.
“Eep or orms orm,” Daryl repeated.
“Buddy, I got no clue what you’re saying,” John remarked.
Daryl spat in exasperation and said, “Keep your worms warm!”
Have a great month, and thanks for reading.

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

‘RELUCTANT AUTHOR’ PUBLISHES BOOK
Jennifer Godwin says much of her book, “Go…Make…Ripples,” was written sitting on her Lake Panorama deck.

Posted 9/2/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

Jennifer Godwin calls herself a reluctant author. And yet her 234-page book titled “Go…Make…Ripples” now is available on Amazon and in small businesses.
“It wasn’t easy,” Godwin says. “I never wrote an essay paper in high school or attended college. I’m not a computer person, and just getting my computer to give me a blank page to write on was difficult. Yet I sat down at my computer with a monster cookie and a glass of iced tea, and I started.”
Jennifer and her husband, Dean Godwin, are high school sweethearts who graduated from Saydel and have been married 34 years. They have three children and two grandchildren. The couple has owned a home on Lake Panorama’s Horseshoe Cove for 15 years. Their primary residence is in Ankeny, and they enjoy winter vacations in Florida.
Godwin says much of her book was written sitting on her Lake Panorama deck, or overlooking water in Florida or near their Ankeny home. She says the book has been 20 years in the making, because it was 20 years ago God planted the idea by telling her, “You will write a book.”
“I know it was God because I would never have come up with this idea on my own,” Godwin says. “It was a crazy thought at the time. But as the years passed, I kept thinking about the possibility. Four years ago, the idea kept pressing on my heart, and I decided to do it.”
Godwin had worked 24 years as a portrait photographer.
“I never dreamed about writing a book; it was never a desire of mine or a link on my bucket list,” she says. “In the beginning, I had no idea who I was writing it for. I was about 90% of the way through it before I realized the book’s purpose.”
Godwin says she had a great childhood, but she was not raised in a family that went to church. At the age of 6, she was visiting a friend whose family sat down at the dinner table together and prayed before they ate. That started her on an inquisitive childhood journey that included asking questions about God, heaven and hell, baptism, churches and much more.
“I was 14 years old before I knew Easter was a religious holiday,” she says. “I started a relationship with Jesus in my teens, but my education about who God is and how to serve him happened as an adult. This book includes a lot of my personal stories about how I came to know Christ as my Savior and my spiritual journey.”
Godwin is passionate about sharing her faith with others.
“This book is for Christians who might be nervous about sharing their faith,” she says. “It includes lots of easy, simple, practical tips.”
Those tips come in the form of gray boxes of highlighted text, each starting with the word “Ripple” in bold font. In her book’s first chapter, Godwin wrote the definition of ripple effect is “a spreading effect or series of consequences caused by a single action or event.”
“Jesus was the first ripple,” Godwin says. “I am just one ripple responding to the pebbles thrown out before me. I want to keep the ripples going and want those who read my book to do the same. That’s why I included these boxes filled with suggestions for ways readers can make ripples in their own lives and share with those around them.”
Godwin spent a year and a half writing and about the same amount of time getting the book edited and ready to print. The book was published by WestBow Press, which specializes in self-published Christian books. It was released May 23 of this year on Amazon in hard cover, paperback and Kindle versions. Portions of the first two chapters of the book can be viewed on Amazon at no cost.
Godwin placed an order for 1,500 books and is marketing those through Facebook and personal contacts with local businesses.
“I think it’s important to support small businesses,” she says. “I sell books to them at a much lower price. This allows them to mark up the price to make a profit and still be below the cost of purchasing on Amazon.”
Currently, the book is available at Nine Livez and Dowd Drug in Guthrie Center, and Crafty’s Coffee and Gifts in Panora. It also is available in Ankeny at several locations, including The Attic, Charlotte Louise Mercantile, Faith Baptist Bible College, Tweedle Dee’s, Wall of Books, Walnut + Willow, and XoXo Gift & Home.
Godwin says she doesn’t have a deadline for marketing the book and is looking forward to meeting more people and making contacts with businesses, libraries, church groups and others that might be interested in her book.
Godwin says friends and family who have read the book tell her they feel she is sitting right beside them, having a conservation.
“That’s exactly what I wanted,” she says. “This is my story filled with my personal experiences. I just wrote the way I talk; I hope readers will feel that connection.”

NEW LPN GOLF CARTS… FINALLY!
Deliveries of some of the 60 electric carts ordered last fall came in mid-August, and all were onsite by the end of the month.

Posted 9/2/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

For many years, Lake Panorama National Resort has had multi-year leases for a fleet of Club Car golf carts to be used by LPN members and guests. In October 2021, an order was placed for new carts to replace those that had been in the LPN fleet for four years. At the time the order was placed, delivery was expected April 2022.
Yet , as with so many things these days, supply chain issues caused delays. It’s been a long summer for the LPN pro shop staff. That’s because instead of new carts for the 2022 golf season, they’ve had to deal with old carts and batteries that wouldn’t hold a charge long enough to make 18 holes.
Finally, deliveries of some of the 60 electric carts ordered last fall came in mid-August, and all were onsite by the end of the month. Also ordered last October were 24 gas carts, five carryalls, one range picker and one beverage cart. The carryalls, range picker and beverage cart arrived earlier this summer. The gas carts now are expected sometime in September.
The 60 electric carts feature an electronic screen that activates as golfers near the first tee. This technology allows golfers to see each hole from either an overall or closeup view. Distances are provided to the center of greens and other points of interest on the screen, and an electronic scorecard is available. Warnings about blind spots on the hole where players in front can’t be seen also are a part of this new technology.
Pro shop personnel now have remote access to battery status information and the ability to broadcast messages to the carts, such as severe weather alerts. The carts have the option of offering advance food and beverage ordering, a feature it is hoped can be rolled out in 2023.
Cart fees were increased for this season, which was an adjustment based on comparable rates charged at other courses. The annual LPN golf cart fleet cost went up about $13,000 for 2022.
For that extra cost, the LPN now has GPS on the 60 electric carts; four additional gas carts with 10 of the 24 slated for use at Panorama West; an upgraded carryall fleet that provides heavier duty carts with electric bed lifts; an additional carryall for the LPN housekeeping and clubhouse use, which made it possible to take a carryall to Panorama West for golf maintenance use; and an additional Café Express food and beverage cart.

Q&A: LPN BOARD MEMBERS PROVIDE LPN RESORT UPDATE
John Coghlan and Barry Monaghan share current status and plans for LPN with the food and beverage department.

Posted 9/2/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

While the Lake Panorama Association has owned the LPN golf course since 1977, it has owned the LPN conference center just since 2005. At the time the conference center was purchased, the LPA board established the legal corporate entity known as “LPN, LLC” to manage this wholly owned subsidiary. The Panorama West golf course and clubhouse was placed under LPN, LLC management in 2013.
As a 501(c)4 nonprofit organization, LPA is required to pay taxes only on gains from land sales. Revenues from dues and assessments are not taxable. Keeping the LPA and LPN, LLC operations separate is necessary to protect the nonprofit status of the LPA.
To keep this separation, the LPA Board of Directors created and appointed the LPN Board of Managers, which held its first meeting in October 2015. The LPA board provides oversight of the LPN, LLC board. Current members of the LPN board are Katelyn Brelsford, John Coghlan, Kathy DeLucca, Sue Merryman, Barry Monaghan, Greg Steffen and Shanell Wagler.
The month of July brought substantial changes to the LPN, with the kitchen closing and staff working with food vendors to cater scheduled events. In this month’s Q&A, two members of the LPN board provide information on the food and beverage aspect of the LPN Resort. First up is John Coghlan, who is president of the LPN board of managers.

Q. John, give us a rundown of what has been happening behind the scenes at the LPN with the food and beverage department.
A. Two key food and beverage employees resigned in late April. A decision was made then to create a task force made up of three members of the LPN board, three members of the LPA board, and three others to help determine next steps regarding the LPN food and beverage operation.
We discussed short-term, long-term and backup strategies if additional departures happened during the peak season. The short-term strategy included getting current key employees into positions that would make it possible for them to run the Links restaurant. This meant limiting the restaurant’s menu and hours, since staffing was limited.
An emphasis was placed on making sure upcoming events already on the LPN calendar could be managed. The task force developed a list of caterers who could be called on short notice to execute events, in case the restaurant needed to close due to a staffing shortage. The task force also discussed contacting food truck operators to provide options if the restaurant closed.
Additional kitchen departures in early July forced the backup plan into action. Staff began working with caterers to execute upcoming events and actively sought food trucks. However, finding food trucks has been more difficult than anticipated, as their minimum sales are more than the LPN business will support.
Since the LPN kitchen closed in early July, the LPN staff, working with event planners and caterers, have pulled off many successful events, including a 350-person wedding reception. The LPN board is grateful for everyone who stepped up to help make this possible. We’ll continue to use this same formula for remaining events on the 2022 calendar. At this time, no further events are being scheduled for this year. However, events for 2023 are being penciled into the LPN calendar.

Q. What’s the next step?
A. Long-term, the task force recommended leasing the food and beverage operation to a third-party vendor, while maintaining control over the golf and lodging departments.
It’s important for our members to know that while the LPN golf operation and Spikes snack shop are profitable, the food and beverage department has been losing money for many years. This means the LPA has had to provide an annual subsidy to the LPN, LLC.
This subsidy has grown in recent years as the COVID pandemic led to two very difficult years, and also the start of our ongoing staffing issues. We have made several upgrades in wages and working hours in attempts to improve staff retention. Yet hiring and keeping quality staff for the LPN food and beverage operation continues to be a difficult task.
So far, we’ve interviewed three potential tenants, but all decided this is not a good fit for them. We will continue to manage scheduled events with LPN staff and outside caterers, while the search for someone to lease the food and beverage operation continues.
Specific lease details would be worked out with the tenant. The LPA would have some requirements, such as the number of days the restaurant must be open for walk-in guests. The tenant would be the exclusive vendor for all events LPN books at the conference center. The tenant also could plan additional events, plus use the kitchen to cater events elsewhere.
The vendor would have the use of all existing kitchen equipment and supplies, and would be responsible for expenses such as utilities and employees. Leasing the LPN food and beverage operation would be similar to what the LPA has done for many years with the marina.
The LPA is willing to lease the operation at extremely favorable terms. For now, the LPA is more interested in finding a tenant who becomes well established and provides good service to members and guests.
I have spoken to several LPA members who know someone in the food and beverage industry, or have some connections in the industry. We need everyone’s help, and we’re open to all contacts and recommendations.

Q. In mid-July, John Rutledge stepped away from his day-to-day role at LPN, after working in an interim role as LPN director of operations for four years. To make that possible, LPN board member Barry Monaghan offered to step into Rutledge’s LPN role as a volunteer. Barry, tell us more about this change.
A. John requested this to allow him to focus on his primary role as LPA general manager and advisor to the Lake Panorama Rural Improvement Zone (RIZ) board. I’m now overseeing the food and beverage team and providing support to Royce Shaffer, who is the LPN operations manager. Royce continues to manage the non-food and beverage portions of the LPN operation.
Events have been going well, with the LPN staff and several different caterers working together. Long-time LPN employee Kashley Sneller, who had taken on much of the load for events when others left, is leaving Sept. 10 for other opportunities. We wish her well. Key contacts now for events are myself and Jen Jensen, who can be reached at jjensen@lakepanorama.org.
Besides continuing to manage scheduled events, I’m working to recruit potential tenants to take over the LPN food and beverage operation. The Iowa Restaurant Association has been contacted and we are working with them to notify their 4,000 members about this opportunity. We’re also working with Shane Goodman and his culinary magazine RELISH to find potential prospects. The hope is to have someone in place by March 1, 2023.
In the meantime, the LPN staff has done a thorough cleaning of the kitchen, followed by a professional service that has the kitchen ready for potential tenants to explore. We believe the kitchen is in good condition, adequately stocked with equipment and serving pieces, and ready for the next chapter.
Both the LPN and LPA boards are committed to having a successful restaurant, lounge and event center at Lake Panorama National Resort. We are actively seeking individuals and groups interested in discussing the possibility of leasing the LPN food and beverage operation. To learn more, anyone interested can contact me at bmonaghan@lakepanorama.org.

Panorama West Women’s League Wraps up 2022 Season

Posted 9/2/2022

The Panorama West women’s golf league wrapped up its 2022 season Aug. 30 with a four-gal best-shot tournament. The league had 82 members this year. The Tuesday tournament was followed by an awards luncheon in the Panorama West Clubhouse community room.
Cash prizes for play throughout the season were distributed to league members based on pars, birdies and chip ins. Karen Bump, Judy Schnack and Sharon Wedemeyer received “perfect attendance” gifts to recognize they played every week of league during the 2022 season.
The top 10 point winners in the league included 13 players because of some ties. Each was recognized and received cash awards. They were Emily Spradling in first place; Sharon Wedemeyer, second; Paula Hansen and Sheryl Crawmer, tied for third; Susan Thompson, fourth; Janet Luing and Donna Daniels, tied for fifth; Toni Wright, sixth; Rhoda Williams and Diane Pieper, tied for seventh; Kathy Feilmeyer, eighth; Karen Bump, ninth; and Carla Fitzgerald, tenth.
Ann Chambers served as league chair in 2022 and will serve a second year in that position in 2023. Also continuing in their 2022 positions next year will be Peg Carr as vice-chair, Nini VonBon as treasurer, Rhoda Williams as secretary, and Amy Johnson, who handles the weekly statistics.
Brenda Dinkla completed her eighth year of managing the handicaps for the Panorama West women’s league. Debbie Rockwell has agreed to take over that task for the 2023 season.

VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION EVENT OCT. 6

Posted 9/2/2022
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 and water safety.
To celebrate the many volunteers who help the Lake Panorama community, a special event is planned for Thursday, Oct. 6, at the LPN Conference Center. Social time begins at 5:30 p.m. with a catered “comfort food” dinner at 6 p.m. This is the 15th year for this free social time and dinner recognizing Lake Panorama volunteers.
Invitations will be mailed to known volunteers. But if you volunteered in the last year and didn’t receive a formal invitation, please know you’re invited and can bring one guest. Reservations are due by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 28 and can be made by calling the LPN front desk at 641-755-2080 during daily business hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

LPA BOARD APPROVES PLANS FOR TRAILS ON SOUTH SHORE
Panorama School District has committed funds to help improve the existing trail and also provide ongoing maintenance assistance.

Posted 9/2/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

At its Aug. 30 meeting, the LPA board approved a proposal from Friends of Lake Panorama that will make improvements to existing trails on the south shore of Lake Panorama’s main basin.
The board also approved Friends and LPA staff working with Panorama Community Schools personnel to move the cross country team trail from Panorama West to the south shore. The school has committed funds to help improve the existing trail and also provide ongoing maintenance assistance.
The cross country trail will begin on school property, continue onto the south shore for much of the course, and loop back to end on school property. All parking and restrooms for cross country meets will be on school property. This loop will be a total of 3.1 miles.
The south shore has several existing trail sections that will be combined into a single trail offering a variety of lengths and difficulty. Users will be able choose a combination of loops based on the total distance they want to walk.
Final details for the trail system will be developed after the south shore rip rap repair project is complete. That is expected to begin this fall and may continue into spring 2023.
Results of a survey about possible projects on the south shore were discussed, prior to board action on the trails. At its May meeting, the LPA board approved a proposal presented by Friends of Lake Panorama that included ideas for various recreational amenities that could be incorporated into the south shore. At its July meeting, the board asked LPA staff to conduct a survey to gather member input on key items included in the plan.
That survey was open for three weeks in August, and included a link to the Friends proposal. A total of 667 people responded to the survey. Questions about each of the projects included in the Friends proposal were asked, covering trails, disc golf, a small shelter house and a fishing dock.
The majority of respondents supported all projects mentioned. A question about a possible walking trail showed the most support, with more than 60% of respondents supporting this project, with another 20% neutral, and 17% opposed. A yes/no question about the Panorama cross country teams being able to use a trail on the south shore for practice and meets received 366 yes votes, 152 neutral votes and 144 no votes.
A final question gave respondents the opportunity to provide feedback and ask questions. It was agreed at the Aug. 30 board meeting that LPA staff and Friends representatives will continue to research options for a disc golf course, a single picnic table with shade and a dock. Friends representatives will return to a future LPA board meeting for further discussion on these topics.

NEW NAME FOR LOCAL COMMUNICATIONS BUSINESS
Panora Fiber continues to operate from current locations in Panora and Guthrie Center.

Posted 9/2/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

On Aug. 1, Panora Telco and Guthrie Center Communications became Panora Fiber, as did the providers’ TV services and the Solutions store. Panora Fiber continues to operate from current locations in Panora and Guthrie Center, and the same team of employees will continue to serve customers.
Andrew Randol, CEO and general manager, says for several years the company’s board of directors had been discussing the breadth of services offered under different names and the possibility of unifying under one.
“We kept discussing ‘who we are’ and how we could create a sharper focus,” Randol says. “We wanted our family of companies to unify under one name to streamline our marketing and create efficiencies. As we started to look at expanding outside our current service area, we decided it was time to take action.”
Randol turned to Shane Petersen, owner of the Cornerstone Group, for help. Petersen’s company provides marketing assistance to independent phone companies and has been managing Panora Fiber’s website, Facebook page and other news and marketing pieces for about five years.
Petersen gathered information from current staff, looked at several case studies, and developed a recommendation, which he presented at a board retreat in June. That recommendation was to place all aspects of the company under the Panora Fiber umbrella.
“Fiber is at the core of all of our business and will play a huge role in the future of communications,” Randol says.
Panora Telco, founded as a telephone cooperative in 1919, was a pioneer in deploying fiber to homes in Iowa, beginning with its first fiber customer in December 2001.
“Since then, we’ve continued to expand our fiber network, connecting more homes and businesses to its ultrafast and reliable internet and related services,” Randol says.
Below the new Panora Fiber logo are three words — Fast, Reliable, Local.
“When customers think of Panora Fiber, we want them to think of those three things,” Randol says. “We provide fast and reliable internet service, and we’re the local provider.”
Once the name change decision was made, the rush was on to meet an Aug. 1 announcement deadline. This would allow the company to use Panorama Days as a chance to introduce the change to a wide range of customers.
Jaime Waddle, administrative and customer service director, has been with the company for 20 years. She was given the task of getting everything that represents the company updated with the new name and logo.
“Designing and ordering new signs for outside and inside both buildings was the first focus,” Waddle says. “All our forms, such as applications and welcome materials, needed to be updated. We wanted to have branded clothing for all employees and board members in time for the announcement. And what our vehicles should look like needed to be decided.”
After researching options, Waddle presented Randol with a plan to have vinyl vehicle wraps that she said would “make a statement” in existing service areas, plus places where the company is making expansion plans. Most of the company’s vehicles were covered with the newly designed wraps by Aug. 1, with the exception of a couple of trucks that are scheduled to be replaced in the near future. Replacement trucks also will receive the same wraps.
Randol started working for Panora Telco in 1995 and become the company’s general manager in 1999. He was hired by Dale Grotjohn, who was the company’s general manager for 30 years.
“Dale was a great mentor to me,” Randol says. “He was a big part of our evolution, taking it from a telephone company to what we offer today.”
The company still has many telephone customers, especially businesses. It also offers subscription cable television service, although Randol says that is “becoming a thing of the past. So many people now use streaming services for television and depend on our broadband fiber for that.”
The company currently provides service to customers in Panora, Lake Panorama, Yale, Guthrie Center, Bagley, Bayard, Jamaica, Linden, and rural areas in Guthrie and Audubon counties. Randol says with the help of state and federal grant programs that target broadband expansion in underserved areas, the company is looking toward additional rural areas of Dallas county.
Closer to home, Randol says Panora Fiber will continue to invest in the communities it serves. For instance, the company business park on the east edge of Panora, which began in the 1980s with the purchase of 40 acres, continues to recruit new businesses.
“The GCH medical clinic that opened this year is a huge asset to the community,” he says. “That, combined with the renovation of the nearby building that now houses Reshape and Restyle, has given the entrance to the park a different feel. But it remains zoned as light industrial, and we’re always looking for new opportunities.”
Panora Fiber also is involved in a joint paving project with the City of Panora and the Panorama School District. West Clay Street is being extended, which will provide another access to Panorama Elementary and Little Panther Day Care.
“It also will open up 18 new lots for housing, which are desperately needed in our community,” Randol says.
Panora Fiber is governed by a seven-member board of directors. Ron Reynolds is the board president. Other directors are Dave Ryan, Lynnea Anderson, Kelvin Hafner, Trudy Hastings, LeRoy Oxley and Chris Arganbright. More details about Panora Fiber, including its services and service areas, are available online at panorafiber.com.

RACCOON RIVER VALLEY WALK BENEFITS ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION

Posted 9/2/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

The second annual Raccoon River Valley Walk to End Alzheimer’s was held in Panora Aug. 13. More than 95 participants on 15 teams raised more than $23,000. The walk began at the Michael Mills Memorial Park. The 2-mile route had walkers heading east from the park, north to the Raccoon River Valley Trail, and south on the trail before looping back to the park.
These Alzheimer’s Association fundraising walks are held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide. There are 18 walks scheduled in Iowa this fall, with Panora being the smallest town to host one, and the first walk of the 18 to be held this year.
Steve Smith of Guthrie Center, who said he had been personally impacted by the disease as a caregiver for his father, was the emcee for the opening ceremony. Smith said more than six million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and 11 million unpaid caregivers are helping loved ones who suffer from the disease.
Spinning flowers in four colors were available for walk participants to place in a Promise Garden. Smith asked various people in the crowd to show each colored flower, and explained its meaning. Blue — someone living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Purple — someone who has lost someone to the disease. Yellow — a person currently supporting or caring for someone living with Alzheimer’s. Orange — a person who supports the cause and the Alzheimer’s Association’s vision of a world without the disease.
Nora and Gracie Grove, daughters of Dave and Sara Grove, displayed white flowers, which will represent the first survivor of Alzheimer’s, once a cure is found.
The first Raccoon River Valley Walk in 2021 had a goal of raising $12,500 and exceeded that by nearly $8,000. That led organizers to set this year’s goal at $27,000. Donations can be made online to the Raccoon River Valley Walk through Dec. 22 at act.alz.org/rrvwalk.
Edwards Jones is a national presenting sponsor of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, having raised nearly $5 million this year. 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.
In addition to Edward Jones, sponsors of the local walk included Lakeside Village, New Homestead, Guthrie County State Bank, Care Initiatives, Iowa Trust and Savings Bank, Wesley Life, Panora Fiber, Nutriom, Dallas County Hospital, Hospice of the Midwest and Life Care Services. Crafty’s Coffee and Hometown Foods of Panora provided coffee and bottled water at registration.
Mel Borgeson, New Homestead manager, volunteered countless hours to prepare and organize the event. Other committee members were Terry and Mary Jane Sprague and Mary Jane Carothers. Many other volunteers were present to help the day of the event, including Joann Reil, plus members of the Panora Garden Club and the Panora Girl Scout Troop. Plans are in the works to hold a third Raccoon River Valley Walk to End Alzheimer’s in fall 2023.

LAKESIDE VILLAGE CELEBRATES DOG DAY

Posted 9/2/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

Some Lakeside Village residents and their dogs celebrated National Spoil Your Dog Day on Aug. 10 by spending the afternoon at the Lake Panorama dog park. According to the folks who created this special national holiday, recommended activities include doling out extra treats and taking your dog to a dog park to socialize with other dogs.
The Lakeside Village staff took those suggestions to heart and organized this event to give residents who own dogs the chance to let them run and roam off-leash. A small canopy was set up just inside the entrance to the small dog side of the park, which provided a shady resting spot for the humans and their canines. Special “pup cup” ice cream treats for the dogs topped off the visit.

RECIPE
Copycat Olive Garden Salad

Posted 9/2/2022
By Jolene Goodman

One of my favorite salads is the one you receive when you eat at Olive Garden restaurants. You know the one I’m talking about. The endless bowl of fresh greens and vegetables, topped with croutons and all the parmesan you desire. It combines flavors that are both satisfying and addictive. Through the last 10 years, I have replicated this recipe for my family, large gatherings and when preparing meals for friends in need. It is a go-to recipe that is a crowd pleaser… and easy. Enjoy!

Jolene Goodman is the advertising director for Lake Panorama Times and vice president of Big Green Umbrella Media.

Copycat Olive Garden Salad
2 bunches of romaine lettuce, chopped
½ red onion, thinly sliced
¾ cup pitted black olives
¾ cup (or more) pickled whole pepperoncini
2 plum tomatoes chopped
1 package of croutons
1/3 cup of grated parmesan
½ - 1 cup Italian dressing – quantity based on desired taste
Combine everything except croutons, parmesan cheese and dressing to make ahead. When ready to serve, add croutons and drizzle dressing over all. Toss and serve. (Chill salad bowls ahead of time for the best tasting salad.) Add 1-2 cups of diced grilled chicken or salmon to make this a meal.

Trish Hart’s nature photo of the month
MIRROR-LIKE

Posted 9/2/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

Photographer Trish Hart and her husband, Scott, live in Lake Panorama’s Andrews Cove, a narrow finger of water across the lake from Sunset Beach. She recently snapped this photo of their dock from a firepit seating area situated on the hillside between their house and the water.
“It’s so tranquil and relaxing when the cove is mirror-like,” Hart says. “Whenever we’re entertaining family and friends, or just a quiet evening alone, later afternoon into evening is a favorite time of day to sit and enjoy the view. And such fun to watch the deer come out with their fawns near the water across the cove.”
Hart offers custom prints of her photos on canvas, paper, metal and glass. Learn more by visiting NaturesCanvasPhotos on Facebook.

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COVE CAT

Posted 9/2/2022
By Cheryl Temple
Lake Panorama Times

Name: Utah
Age: 2-3 years old
Available at: Panora Pets
Utah has been at Panora Pets for almost a year. He is a neutered male and a bit on the small side. While at the shelter, he has been quite ornery. He finds it fun to reach out of his cage and grab a toy that another kitty is playing with. He doesn’t particularly like other kitties much. However, Utah has a great attitude and is a happy and playful kitty. Utah has the cutest look of wonderment that he pairs with a snazzy little gray and white coat.

LAKE DOG

Posted 9/2/2022
By Cheryl Temple
Lake Panorama Times

Name: Rizzo
Age: 6
Breed: boxer
Owners: Linda and Steve Roe
Rizzo is a rescue boxer that Linda and Steve Roe say they were lucky to get when he was just 6 months old. Rizzo is now 6. He is a sweetheart that loves to bark at everything.
Rizzo, the wonder dog, really isn’t into being on the water. However, happiness is being with Steve, taking on the responsibility as first mate, riding shotgun in the truck, daily walks and making sure Sunday naps are taken care of. Rizzo (though he does sigh occasionally), puts up with Mom, Linda, and annoying baby brother Charlie, an 18-month-old mix.

2022 BEACH BALL RAISES $30,000
Board will meet in mid-September to discuss how to allocate the funds.

Posted 8/10/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

An estimated 175 people attended the Friends of Lake Panorama 2022 Beach Ball July 22 at the Lake Panorama National Conference Center. After expenses, the event had a profit of more than $30,000.
The Friends board will meet in mid-September to discuss how to allocate the funds. Publicity in advance of the Beach Ball said profits would be used to support a basketball half-court at Sunset Beach and recreational projects on the south shore, such as walking trails and a disc golf course.
Both outdoor and indoor spaces were used for the Beach Ball. Outside tables were under tents, located on the grass between the conference center and the golf course. Little Joe McCarthy, a singer and songwriter who lives in Omaha, provided live music under an outdoor tent.
For the second year in a row, individuals and businesses became Friends Beach Club members to support this event. 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 11 businesses and groups of individuals that spent $700 to join the Premier level of the Beach Club. Fifteen couples spent $250 to be in the Couples Beach Club, with 12 businesses or individuals donating $150 to sponsor a table.
Seventy-six items were donated for the silent auction, which brought in $7,500, up $2,500 from 2021. The live auction of 11 items raised $17,650, up from $8,000 last year. Two items in particular gave a big boost to this year’s live auction total.
One was the Iowa State University Cyclone football package, offered by Jamie Pollard, ISU athletic director, who owns a Lake Panorama home with his wife, Ellen. It included four tickets in the athletic director’s suite in the Jacobsen Building in the north end zone for the Sept. 24 ISU versus Baylor football game. This package also included a parking pass, plus food and soft drinks during the game. Several bidders were interested and drove the price steadily higher. In the end, Tom and Rodie Gibson were the winning bidders at $4,250.
Another live auction item that generated spirited bidding was the six-course gourmet dinner for six, with a different wine paired with each course. This is the second year this has been offered by LPA members Bill and Karen Fitzgerald. The dinner is served in the winning bidder’s home, prepared and served by the Fitzgeralds. At the 2021 Beach Ball, this dinner sold at live auction for $2,000. This year, the dinner went for $4,000. Because of strong interest from bidders, the Fitzgeralds offered a second gourmet dinner, which sold for $3,500.
Laura Kemble won the 50/50 raffle, then donated her winnings back to Friends. That led to the raffle bringing in $2,450, up $200 from last year.
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 P.O. Box 488, Panora, IA 50216.
Direct donations also can be sent via Venmo @Panorama-Friends. 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 are 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.

LAKE PANORAMA CAMPGROUNDS DATE BACK TO EARLY 1970s
Pat and Denny Daniel have served as hosts at Lake Panorama’s west campground for 12 years.

Posted 8/10/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

Beginning in the early 1970s, the Lake Panorama Association prohibited camping on private lots. But there was a small campground on the west side in the timber along the road that now leads to the LPA yard waste site. It was primitive, no showers, just outhouses.
That early campground was replaced by another primitive site west of the water plant. It became less primitive when a new restroom facility was completed in spring 1980. Rock was added to the roads, and the grounds were mowed and maintained by LPA staff.
For many years, there was talk of creating a second campground for the east side. In spring 1981, an area north of Lake Panorama National where an airstrip had been planned was turned into a campground designed for self-contained units only. Water and electric hookups were available, with a nightly fee of $4.
Fast forward to 2022. Both campgrounds remain in the same locations. One thing that sets the two campgrounds apart is the west side has campground hosts. For the past 12 years, Denny and Pat Daniel have filled that role.
Denny worked for many years for Hy-Vee, moving around Iowa. When he retired, the couple wanted to live in a small community and settled on Atlantic. They purchased and renovated a home they still own. But because they have been camping since they were married in 1989, they wanted to find a nearby campground they could enjoy during the summer months.
The first place they tried was Sun Valley Lake in Ringgold County. They bid on a lot and didn’t get it, so they kept looking. When they came to Lake Panorama, a realtor showed them the two campgrounds.
“When he brought us to the west campground, we fell in love with it,” Pat says.
They purchased a C lot, then chose the spot in the west campground they wanted to call home.
“It was in the middle of things, so we liked the location,” Denny says. “We leveled it out, planted grass and trees and shrubs and flowers, and made it really nice.” After settling in for a couple of years, they became the campground hosts.
The couple is at the campground five days a week. They generally spend Monday and Tuesday at their home in Atlantic, doing laundry and mowing their yard. But if Monday is a holiday, they know things will be busy at the campground, and they stick around in case they are needed.
“We are here to help,” Pat says. “We always tell our campers if there is something they need, to just ask. We’re always open to suggestions on ways we can improve the campground. We’ve made it into a park, with nice landscaping and flower beds. There are good people here who are always willing to help with a project, like painting picnic tables.”
The Daniels have taken on several projects themselves. They added flagpoles at the entrance, installed a basketball hoop and renovated the bathrooms. A few years ago, Denny received permission from the LPA to create five new camping sites. He had a friend with a truck who hauled 80 tons of rock the LPA had piled on the east side of the lake to help make the new sites possible.
Most of the campers are like the Daniels; they own a Lake Panorama lot and keep a camper at the west campground. They come and go through the summer months, sometimes bringing grandchildren and other family and friends to visit. Some people stay at the campground while they are having a house built on the lot they own. Some are there full-time through the camping season.
The Daniels’ official duties are to clean the bathrooms and make sure needed supplies are available. Denny cleans the bathrooms each morning around 5 a.m., then usually three more times each day. The couple also helps answer questions and coordinate work tasks with LPA.
The couple keeps a pile of firewood along the edge of their lot for people who don’t bring in their own.
“If someone builds a fire, generally some neighbors join them,” Pat says. “There are lots of groups here gathering around firepits in the evenings.”
Pat maintains a notebook with names and phone numbers of all the campers, in case they see a problem while a camper is empty. Sometimes they organize a group meal.
The couple enjoys camping so much they bought a second camper and keep it at a resort in Donna, Texas. That’s where they live from Oct. 1 to April 1. They also are in volunteer mode there, as they work shifts at the guard house and help plan social activities.
This spring, Pat came up with the idea of asking all the West Campground campers if they’d like to purchase matching T-shirts. The shirts were designed by, and purchased from, a woman who lives in their same resort in Texas. The bright blue shirts feature a lighthouse and the words West Campground Lake Panorama.
About 100 shirts were purchased. The Daniels organized a get-together at Shady Beach July 2 and asked everyone to attend and wear their shirts. About 40 members of the group showed up for a group photo.
“It was a lot of work but really fun to do,” Pat says. “We enjoy being a part of the Lake Panorama West Campground family.”

LAKE PANORAMA CAMPGROUND FACTS
The west campground has 33 spaces, and the east campground has 24. Sixteen of the spots in the east campground have sewer hookup, plus water and electricity. In the west campground, all spaces have water and electricity. There are no sewer hookups, but there is a sewer dump station available.
Both campgrounds have a restroom and shower facility, plus a storm shelter. Electricity is available March 1 through Oct. 31. Water is guaranteed May 1 to Sept. 30 every year, with decisions on when to turn water on and off dependent on when temperatures could get low enough to freeze pipes.
The LPA currently does not offer weekly or daily camping. Spaces are rented on an annual basis. For 2022, the cost is $750 for the season, which includes water, electric and tax. Those in the east campground who have sewer hookups pay $80 more. Another $250 allows campers to leave their units at the campgrounds year-round. Campers must either be Lake Panorama property owners or be sponsored by an owner.
For more information on the campgrounds, or to get on a waiting list for the 2023 season, contact Lane Rumelhart, LPA project manager, 641-755-2301, lpa@lakepanorama.org.

LAKE PANORAMA’S FIRE IN THE SKY

Posted 8/10/2022
Every year, the Lake Panorama Association receives a number of questions about the date of the Independence Day Fireworks. The family of the late Joe Scheiring still coordinates this annual “Fire in the Sky” event in his memory. They have confirmed the Independence Day fireworks is always the first Saturday in July.
This means the 2023 fireworks will be Saturday, July 1. Many Lake Panorama families plan their events a year in advance, and choose this holiday weekend, and its annual fireworks display, to schedule reunions and vacations.
This photo of the July 2, 2022 Lake Panorama Fire in the Sky was taken by Michael Kleinwolterink, an amateur photographer who offers prints of his photos on metal and canvas. Kleinwolterink donated this photo, printed on metal, as a live auction item for the July 22 Friends of Lake Panorama Beach Ball. When he’s not taking pictures, Kleinwolterink is the pro shop manager at Lake Panorama National Resort. Learn more online at michaelk.photography.

ASH TREE STUMP REMOVAL UNDERWAY
Treated ash trees have a 70-80% survival rate.

Posted 8/10/2022
By Susan Thompson
Lake Panorama Times

From mid-January through February, 355 ash trees were removed from the Lake Panorama National and Panorama West golf courses. This was done because some ash trees already were showing signs of emerald ash borer (EAB) infestation, and it was inevitable the borers would continue to spread and tree death would be the result.
Also, about 100 of the trees deemed to be in “critical locations” were chosen a few years ago to receive a chemical treatment that has proven effective, in some cases, in fighting off EAB infestations. Treated ash trees have a 70-80% survival rate. Removing untreated trees increases the chances trees being treated will survive.
There were 304 trees removed at the LPN and 51 at Panorama West. While the tree removal was done by a commercial company, removing the stumps and restoring the ground where trees had stood is being handled by maintenance staff for both the Lake Panorama Association and the LPN.
A stump grinder that could be attached to a skid loader was ordered last fall and arrived late this spring. Work on stumps at the LPN course began July 20. LPA maintenance staff operate the grinder. It takes an average of 15 minutes to grind one stump, with 10 minutes for smaller stumps and 30 minutes for the largest ones.
The grinder leaves a pile of wood chips and mulch. LPN maintenance staff use a tractor bucket to scoop away as much of the mulch residue as possible. Another crew comes behind with black dirt and fills in the hole, packing it slightly above grade to allow for some settling. Some former stump areas that are close enough to the fairway to receive irrigation water are seeded at the same time. Others will be seeded this fall.
The hope is that all stumps at the LPN course can be removed by the end of August, although some in no-mow areas may be delayed until after the Panorama West course is completed.

ON THE LAKE
Dancing in the street!

Posted 8/10/2022
By Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher

Summer is here, and the time is right — for dancing in the street! Martha Reeves and The Vandellas first introduced us to this song in 1964. The Mamas and the Papas brought us their version in 1966. Van Halen’s rendition caught my ear in 1982. And then David Bowie and Mick Jagger even gave us yet another remake in 1985. Regardless of what generation you are in, or what version of the song you prefer, dancing in the street is something most all of us can relate to — especially at Lake Panorama. If dancing isn’t your thing, that’s OK. You can still celebrate, and we have had many examples of this recently.

Panorama Days rocks
At the top of the list was Panorama Days, with live music, a parade, food and fun. It is everything a community festival should be, and I am thankful to all the folks — especially those with the Panora Chamber of Commerce — who volunteered their time to make this happen.

Beach Ball impresses
Many of you also attended the Friends of Lake Panorama annual Beach Ball event. It has become the gala of the year with the “who’s who” of Lake Panorama bidding on a variety of auction items while enjoying great food and listening to live music. Susan Thompson, who writes the majority of the content in this newspaper, spearheads this amazing event with great success, and we all owe her a big thank you. See details on the results of the Beach Ball, along with event photos, on the following pages.

Angels abound
And finally, I continue to be amazed at the generosity of so many Lake residents, which is apparent yet again with the recent contributions to Tori’s Angels by the Lake Panorama National Resort women’s golf league. We provide details on their donation in this issue of the Lake Panorama Times. The Tori’s Angels effort is just one of many examples of people helping people not only here at Lake Panorama but everywhere.

Subscribers are appreciated
Speaking of helping, I want to say thank you to those of you who reached out with positive comments about what we have done with the Times Vedette newspaper. And, even more so, I want to thank those of you who sent in checks for your $34 subscriptions. Those paid subscriptions are essential to the newspaper’s success, which also helps us invest more in the Lake Panorama Times. If you are not yet a subscriber, I ask that you consider writing a check for $34 and mailing it to Big Green Umbrella Media, 8101 Birchwood Court, Suite D, Johnston, Iowa 50131 or visiting www.guthriecountynewspapers.com and ordering online.

Lake humor returns
Some of you noticed that I skipped my lake humor last month. No worries. I have a few more for you.
Three men are on a boat with four cigarettes, but they don’t have any way to light up their smokes. So what do they do? They throw one in the water, and their boat instantly becomes a cigarette lighter.
That was a joke. Don’t throw cigarettes in the lake.
Here’s another joke. If you need a custom boat built, let me know. I Noah guy who can help.
And finally, what does a pirate do when there’s too much junk in his boat? He has a yaaarrrd sale.
Have a lake joke better than these that I should share? Send it on over to me.
Have a great month, and thanks for reading. n

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

RUTLEDGE PROVIDES ORGANIZATIONAL UPDATES AT GM COFFEE
Substantial changes have taken place at the Lake Panorama National Resort.

Posted 08/10/22
At an informational meeting July 15, John Rutledge, LPA general manager, provided updates to the membership on current activities for three entities — Lake Panorama National, Lake Panorama Association and the Lake Panorama Rural Improvement Zone (RIZ).
Rutledge started his report by saying substantial changes have taken place at the Lake Panorama National Resort.
“The kitchen is now closed, and the operation is working with food vendors who will cater events,” he said. “Making sure the events already on the LPN calendar can continue is the priority. The team has been in contact with all event coordinators, and strategies are being put in place to ensure these will happen as planned.”
A task force made up of three members of the LPN board, three members of the LPA board, and three others has been working for several months to evaluate options for food and beverage service at the LPN conference center. After many discussions, the task force recommended leasing the food and beverage operation to a third-party vendor, while maintaining control over the golf and lodging departments.
“We were very transparent with existing staff about this plan, which led the executive chef and the rest of the kitchen staff to resign for other jobs in early July,” Rutledge said. “Three potential tenants have been interviewed so far, but after review, none were interested. One concern has been whether they could find enough staff to fill needed positions.”
While the LPN golf operation and Spikes snack shop are profitable, the food and beverage department has been losing money for years. This means the LPA has had to provide an annual subsidy to its subsidiary, the LPN, LLC.
Rutledge said the plan is to continue to manage scheduled events with LPN staff and outside caterers, while the search for someone to lease the food and beverage operation continues. The hope is to have someone in place by March 1, 2023.
“The specific details of any lease would be worked out with the tenant,” he said. “The LPA would have some requirements, such as the number of days the bar and restaurant must be open for walk in guests. We probably would allow them to be closed January and February. We would guarantee the tenant would be the exclusive vendor for all events LPN books on the main level of the conference center. They also could plan their own events, and use the kitchen to cater events elsewhere.”
The vendor would have the use of all existing kitchen equipment and supplies, and would be responsible for expenses such as utilities. Rutledge said a market study of similar operations shows what LPN has to offer should be worth about $60,000 annually to a tenant.
“But we would want our tenant to get well established before talking about that kind of money,” he said. “The LPA is willing to lease the first year for $1, and probably the same the second year. By the third year, if things are going well, we might ask for an increase. For now, we’re not looking to make money off of a lease, just get someone in here to provide good service to our members and guests.”
Rutledge noted leasing the LPN food and beverage operation would be similar to what the LPA has done for many years with the marina, which is leased to Lyn Coulter.
Rutledge has stepped back from his day-to-day role at LPN, after working in an interim role there for four years. Rutledge said he requested this change in order to refocus his efforts on his primary role as LPA general manager and advisor to the Rural Improvement Zone (RIZ) board. LPN board member Barry Monaghan has stepped into Rutledge’s LPN role as a volunteer, overseeing the food and beverage team and providing support to operations manager Royce Shaffer. Shaffer continues to manage the non-food and beverage portions of the LPN operation.
Turning to the LPA, Rutledge reported a total of 7.65 miles of roads received seal-coat treatment this year, with 3.97 miles on the east side of the lake, and 3.68 miles on the west side. The cost was more than $215,000, which reflects a 23.5% increase in cost from 2021. Because of the higher cost, less miles of road were treated than has been the case for the past 15 years.
The LPA water safety committee recently recommended and the board approved a limit on personal marker buoys. Rutledge said members now can have just one marker, which must be high visibility, not larger than 18 inches in diameter, and no farther from shore than the end of the owner’s dock.
“The committee had a long discussion on this topic,” Rutledge said. “I think this decision was a reasonable, middle-ground approach. The increasing number of personal buoys had the potential to narrow the channel, while also causing boaters to begin to ignore official LPA hazard buoys.”
Rutledge said a shortage of available boat lifts has caused some members to look for used lifts.
“If you plan to purchase a lift that has been in another lake, remember the LPA requires a 30-day quarantine and the lift must be inspected before it can be installed here,” he said. “It is absolutely critical to the health of Lake Panorama for everyone to abide by our invasive species rules.”
A bid of $295,000 has been accepted to bore a new water main under the lake from Sunset Beach to the east side. Rutledge said the total cost of this project could reach $400,000. The old water line that was installed before the lake existed will be abandoned once the new line is in place. Completion is expected this fall.
Rutledge said LPA continues to field complaints about lack of communication from the two barge vendors that currently have permission to operate on Lake Panorama.
“As a reminder, LPA does not govern the barge companies. We have an implied length variance, and horsepower variance, if needed,” he said. “We also rent space at the marina for each.”
(Note: At the LPA board meeting July 26, the board agreed to allow Tyler Rupp, Deluxe Docks, to operate beginning in 2023. Rupp was provided a length and horsepower variance, equivalent to what is in place for the two existing barges. Rupp also was provided a guarantee LPA would not approve a fourth competitor for three years to allow him to establish his business. Rupp will be stationed above the debris trap, as LPA did not believe the marina had space to house a third company.)
On another topic, Rutledge said boat trailers currently are the only thing allowed on private undeveloped lots.
“We will continue to strictly prohibit camping, but there is some gray area on small utility and cargo trailers that is being reviewed by two board members and LPA Security,” he said. “A recommendation will be made to the LPA board.”
Turning to RIZ, Rutledge said the fiscal year 2022-23 RIZ budget includes about $3 million of annual tax increment financing (TIF) revenue.
“This TIF program continues to be an extremely important piece of our funding model for water quality work,” he said.
Rutledge reviewed some ongoing projects being funded by RIZ. Expansion of the old CIPCO basin, which has been renamed the 180th Trail Basin, is underway. Spring Lake Construction was awarded a $3.2 million contract in August 2021. RIZ expects the project to exceed $4 million in total cost. This expanded sediment basin is where dredging spoils will go once the current basin being used is full.
Land trades and acquisitions were completed in the past two years to position RIZ for additional wetlands and sediment basins.
“RIZ continues to pursue a two-pronged approach by investing in both sediment removal and storage, and the prevention of sediment entering the lake,” Rutledge said.
Two additional wetlands are planned, with the one that will protect the west fork of Burchfield being a 2022 project. The second one has been held up due to changing regulations with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, but negotiations will continue.
RIZ is in the process of developing plans to fund substantial rip rap repairs along the south shore of the main basin. It is hoped work can begin late this year, although material acquisition may be a challenge. The LPA will sign a contract that no commercial or residential development will occur on the south shore for at least the next 15 years. If the land were developed with businesses or housing, the LPA would be required to refund the cost of the rip rap project to RIZ.
Rutledge said Friends of Lake Panorama has developed some potential plans for a multi-use recreation area on the south shore, which was approved by the LPA Board in May.
“The LPA will be working cooperatively with Friends to keep the south shore a green space, while making it more available to walkers and perhaps other recreational options,” he said.
Note: At the LPA board meeting July 26, it was decided a membership survey regarding recreational options on the south shore will be conducted. Additional information will be provided in the near future in the LPA Prompt e-newsletter.
Two more GM coffees are scheduled for 2022. These will be held on Friday, Sept. 2 and Friday, Dec. 2. Both will begin at 10:30 a.m. and be held at the LPN conference center.

LPA SURVEY TO GATHER MEMBER OPINIONS ON SOUTH SHORE PROPOSALS

Posted 08/10/22
Friends of Lake Panorama was formed in 2013 with a goal of improving recreational amenities at Lake Panorama. The nonprofit public charity has raised money for playgrounds, sports courts, the dog park, benches at beaches, improvements to the Panorama West trail and other projects.
In 2020, the Friends board decided to ask the LPA board if the charity could develop a recreational concept for the south shore of the main basin. The South Shore is the area located directly west of the ski team practice area that wraps around to the lake’s dam.
At its June 2021 meeting, the LPA board approved a motion to allow Friends to work on a plan. At its May 2022 meeting, the LPA board approved the plan presented by Friends, with the caveat Friends would work with LPA staff on items within the proposal to make sure each is low maintenance.
This survey is designed to gather LPA member input on key items included in the plan. Projects within the plan are dependent both on successful fundraising, and on designs that will fit the landscape of the south shore, once the shoreline rip rap project is complete. It is important to know LPA has no intention of developing the South Shore for residential or commercial use. The area will remain a green space with or without the proposed amenities.
The online survey is now open and will continue through Aug. 21. Survey results will be tabulated and analyzed, then reviewed by the LPA board at its Aug. 30 meeting. The survey is available at this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HZWWLZX or use the QR code provided here.

About Lake Panorama Times

Lake Panorama Times and lakepanoramatimes.com are a monthly newspaper and website of Big Green Umbrella Media, a locally owned publishing company. The print version of Lake Panorama Times is mailed to the home address of every property owner and home owner on Lake Panorama for free each month, making it the strongest method to deliver news and information to residents of the lake. This website offers additional news items and archives, all available for free.

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Phone: 515-953-4822

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COVE CAT

LAKE DOGS

LAKE PANORAMA RIZ ELECTION DEC. 13 Trustees Bill Dahl and Corey Welberg are running for re-election to three-year terms.

LAKE PANORAMA RESIDENT HELPS MONARCHS THRIVEFor the past two summers, Kelli Peters has been giving monarchs a boost.

SWING SET ADDED TO SUNSET BEACH PLAYGROUND

Twin Vines Fall Festival set for Oct. 15More than 20 vendors will have wares on display at this free-admission event.

ON THE LAKEButterflies, neighbors and Halloween humor

SWING SET ADDED TO SUNSET BEACH PLAYGROUND

TESTING SHOWS NO ZEBRA MUSSEL PRESENT IN LAKE PANORAMA … YETThe mussels have spread into much of the upper Midwest including the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, and several streams and lakes in Iowa.

LPA job openings

Power and water to be shut off at LPA campgrounds by Oct. 31

OBITUARYDale Grotjohn

OBITUARYGeorge Ohm

OBITUARYKelly Wilderman

Q&A:SOMETIMES THE ANSWER IS YESAnd sometimes it is no.

LPA UPDATES AT GM COFFEERutledge noted leasing the LPN food and beverage operation would be similar to what the LPA has done for many years with the marina.

LAKESHORE FAMILY DENTISTRY NEARS 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARYDr. Spray credits two local businesses for making it possible for him to start a practice right out of dental school.

NEW WATER MAIN BEING INSTALLED WEST TO EAST

Flu and COVID booster shot clinic Oct. 14

Beach and golf course outdoor restrooms to close by Oct. 31

PANORAMA WEST NATURE TRAIL SLATED FOR COMPLETION THIS FALL

Check out the Haunted Village on Oct. 16Guthrie County Historical Village offers a children’s Halloween activity.

FRIENDS OF LAKE PANORAMA BOARD ALLOCATES 2022 BEACH BALL FUNDSBasketball court will be expanded to include pickleball.

RECIPESimple Family Meals Fit for Fall

Trish Hart’s nature photo of the monthSEPTEMBER HARVEST MOON SHINES BRIGHT

COVE CAT

LAKE DOG

AND THE MUSIC PLAYS ON AND ONIn 2023, the band Rukkus will celebrate 40 years.

2022 PANORAMA DAYS IN THE BOOKSDespite high temperatures and high humidity, good crowds participated in all aspects of this year’s celebration.

ON THE LAKEThe county fair, solitude, live music and ‘orms’

‘RELUCTANT AUTHOR’ PUBLISHES BOOK Jennifer Godwin says much of her book, “Go…Make…Ripples,” was written sitting on her Lake Panorama deck.

NEW LPN GOLF CARTS… FINALLY! Deliveries of some of the 60 electric carts ordered last fall came in mid-August, and all were onsite by the end of the month.

Q&A: LPN BOARD MEMBERS PROVIDE LPN RESORT UPDATEJohn Coghlan and Barry Monaghan share current status and plans for LPN with the food and beverage department.

Panorama West Women’s League Wraps up 2022 Season

VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION EVENT OCT. 6

LPA BOARD APPROVES PLANS FOR TRAILS ON SOUTH SHOREPanorama School District has committed funds to help improve the existing trail and also provide ongoing maintenance assistance.

NEW NAME FOR LOCAL COMMUNICATIONS BUSINESSPanora Fiber continues to operate from current locations in Panora and Guthrie Center.

RACCOON RIVER VALLEY WALK BENEFITS ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION

LAKESIDE VILLAGE CELEBRATES DOG DAY

RECIPECopycat Olive Garden Salad

Trish Hart’s nature photo of the monthMIRROR-LIKE

COVE CAT

LAKE DOG

2022 BEACH BALL RAISES $30,000Board will meet in mid-September to discuss how to allocate the funds.

LAKE PANORAMA CAMPGROUNDS DATE BACK TO EARLY 1970sPat and Denny Daniel have served as hosts at Lake Panorama’s west campground for 12 years.

LAKE PANORAMA’S FIRE IN THE SKY

ASH TREE STUMP REMOVAL UNDERWAY Treated ash trees have a 70-80% survival rate.

ON THE LAKEDancing in the street!

RUTLEDGE PROVIDES ORGANIZATIONAL UPDATES AT GM COFFEESubstantial changes have taken place at the Lake Panorama National Resort.

LPA SURVEY TO GATHER MEMBER OPINIONS ON SOUTH SHORE PROPOSALS

LAKE PANORAMA RIZ ELECTION DEC. 13
Trustees Bill Dahl and Corey Welberg are running for re-election to three-year terms.

LAKE PANORAMA RESIDENT HELPS MONARCHS THRIVE
For the past two summers, Kelli Peters has been giving monarchs a boost.

Twin Vines Fall Festival set for Oct. 15
More than 20 vendors will have wares on display at this free-admission event.

ON THE LAKE
Butterflies, neighbors and Halloween humor

TESTING SHOWS NO ZEBRA MUSSEL PRESENT IN LAKE PANORAMA … YET
The mussels have spread into much of the upper Midwest including the Mississippi and Missouri rivers, and several streams and lakes in Iowa.

OBITUARY
Dale Grotjohn

OBITUARY
George Ohm

OBITUARY
Kelly Wilderman

Q&A:
SOMETIMES THE ANSWER IS YES
And sometimes it is no.

LPA UPDATES AT GM COFFEE
Rutledge noted leasing the LPN food and beverage operation would be similar to what the LPA has done for many years with the marina.

LAKESHORE FAMILY DENTISTRY NEARS 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY
Dr. Spray credits two local businesses for making it possible for him to start a practice right out of dental school.

Check out the Haunted Village on Oct. 16
Guthrie County Historical Village offers a children’s Halloween activity.

FRIENDS OF LAKE PANORAMA BOARD ALLOCATES 2022 BEACH BALL FUNDS
Basketball court will be expanded to include pickleball.

RECIPE
Simple Family Meals Fit for Fall

Trish Hart’s nature photo of the month
SEPTEMBER HARVEST MOON SHINES BRIGHT

AND THE MUSIC PLAYS ON AND ON
In 2023, the band Rukkus will celebrate 40 years.

2022 PANORAMA DAYS IN THE BOOKS
Despite high temperatures and high humidity, good crowds participated in all aspects of this year’s celebration.

ON THE LAKE
The county fair, solitude, live music and ‘orms’

‘RELUCTANT AUTHOR’ PUBLISHES BOOK
Jennifer Godwin says much of her book, “Go…Make…Ripples,” was written sitting on her Lake Panorama deck.

NEW LPN GOLF CARTS… FINALLY!
Deliveries of some of the 60 electric carts ordered last fall came in mid-August, and all were onsite by the end of the month.

Q&A: LPN BOARD MEMBERS PROVIDE LPN RESORT UPDATE
John Coghlan and Barry Monaghan share current status and plans for LPN with the food and beverage department.

LPA BOARD APPROVES PLANS FOR TRAILS ON SOUTH SHORE
Panorama School District has committed funds to help improve the existing trail and also provide ongoing maintenance assistance.

NEW NAME FOR LOCAL COMMUNICATIONS BUSINESS
Panora Fiber continues to operate from current locations in Panora and Guthrie Center.

RECIPE
Copycat Olive Garden Salad

Trish Hart’s nature photo of the month
MIRROR-LIKE

2022 BEACH BALL RAISES $30,000
Board will meet in mid-September to discuss how to allocate the funds.

LAKE PANORAMA CAMPGROUNDS DATE BACK TO EARLY 1970s
Pat and Denny Daniel have served as hosts at Lake Panorama’s west campground for 12 years.

ASH TREE STUMP REMOVAL UNDERWAY
Treated ash trees have a 70-80% survival rate.

ON THE LAKE
Dancing in the street!

RUTLEDGE PROVIDES ORGANIZATIONAL UPDATES AT GM COFFEE
Substantial changes have taken place at the Lake Panorama National Resort.