August 2015 Newsletter

City of Milo
P.O. Box 111
Milo, IA 50166
Visit us on the web at:
www.cityofmilo.com
Submit Articles to:
milonews@iowatelecom.net
The City of Milo reserves the right to edit articles
submitted for the Milo Newsletter.
Milo Newsletter
AUGUST, 2015
www.cityofmilo.com
St. Paul Lutheran Church Picnic
Lacona Celebration - August 29th
St. Paul Lutheran (Germantown)
Church will host their annual
picnic on Sunday, August 2nd.
The church is located in rural
Lacona - Germantown.
The stand opens at 3:00 pm. Come enjoy
homemade ice cream, homemade pie, fried
chicken, beefburgers and more. There will be kid
games & adult tournaments.
Entertainment by the Al Butler Family will begin at
5:00 pm and last until 7:00 pm. Come listen to some
great singing and fun!
The annual Lacona celebration will be held
Friday, August 28th and Saturday, August 29th.
Friday night features lawn tractor pulls and food.
Saturday begins with a 5K run, the parade follows
at 11 am. Throughout the day there will be a tractor
show, music and entertainment, games of chance,
BBQ contest, bag tournament, horse shoes, drawings,
food, fire department demonstration.
Registration information for the 5K run is featured
later in this newsletter.
Fun for all ages!
Milo City Council Minutes
Milo Public Library - Monday, June 8, 2015
plaque to present to Chet Crouse. Second by Miller.
Ayes-All. Motion carried.
Amended Agenda: Terry Morgan – Mayor asked
about presenting a plaque to Terry Morgan for his
years served on the city council. Motion by Doss to
purchase a plaque to present to Terry Morgan.
Second by Miller. Ayes-All. Motion carried.
Milo City Council was called to order by Mayor
Hitsman at 7:00 p.m. Council answering roll call:
Doss, Graham and Miller. Hall was absent.
Consent Agenda: Motion by Doss to amend the
agenda to include under new business Chet Crouse
and Terry Morgan; and to approve the May 18, 2015
minutes; and accounts payable for May 19 - June 8,
2015 in the amount of $57,941.51. Second by Miller.
Ayes-All. Motion carried.
Propositions And Remarks From Mayor/Council
Mayor indicated Councilwoman Hall’s
grandmother had passed away and asked that the
newly planted DNR Trees for Kids trees need to be
watered and that one of Doug’s assistance could
water the trees. Discussion followed regarding the
trees and that they may need braced. Mayor
indicated that there is graffiti in the park. Another
item is that 12-15 year old youths are knocking on
doors late at night and then running. A report has
been made to the Sheriff regarding this issue.
Public
Stan Hughes spoke regarding availability for
appointment to Milo City Council. Hughes stated
that he would be available if no other citizen stepped
forward.
Public Hearing: Budget Amendment
Motion by Miller to open the public hearing
regarding the FY2015 Budget Amendment. Second
by Doss. Ayes-All. Motion carried. Mayor Hitsman
asked if any public was present to speak regarding
the budget amendment. Public answered no. Motion
by Doss to close public hearing regarding the FY2015
Budget Amendment. Second by Miller. Ayes-All.
Motion carried. Motion by Doss to approve
Resolution 738: FY2015 Budget Amendment. Second
by Miller. Ayes-All. Motion carried.
Adjourn
Motion by Doss to adjourn at 7:18 p.m. Second by
Miller. Ayes-All. Motion carried.
— By order of the Milo City Council
City Election Candidacy Papers Due
Old Business
Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements –
Mayor stated that the disadvantaged community
application with the DNR is still being reviewed.
Movie licensing – Item tabled to June 22, 2015
council meeting.
Do you have some really
great ideas for improving the
City of Milo? Do you see a
street issue or a park issue that
needs addressed? Maybe you
would like to improve Main
Street or help bring a new
business to town? Then City
Council is for you!
This is an election year for Milo and on November
3, 2015 citizens of Milo will vote and elect a mayor
and three council members. If you want to be one of
those people, find the candidacy information you
need at www.sos.state.ia.us under the elections tab or
stop by City Hall for a copy.
All candidates and incumbents must file the
appropriate paperwork with the Warren County
Auditor at 301 North Buxton, Suite 101, Indianola,
Iowa. The deadline for filing candidacy papers at the
office of the Warren County Auditor is August 24 September 17, 2015 at 5:00 p.m.
Departmental Reports
Doug Hembry – was not available at this council
meeting due to being at a fire meeting.
Water Distribution System and Sanitary Sewer
System GPS/GIS Mapping – tabled.
Wire Welder bids/purchase – City Clerk presented
bids for the wire welder. Motion by Graham to
approve the purchase of the wire welder. Second by
Doss. Ayes-All. Motion carried.
New Business
Building permit application for a deck at 409
Belmont – Motion by Graham to approve the
building application and permit for 409 Belmont.
Second by Doss. Ayes-All. Motion carried.
Amended Agenda: Chet Crouse – Mayor Hitsman
addressed council regarding presenting a plaque to
Chet Crouse for his many years of service to the
Milo community. Motion by Doss to purchase a
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Milo City Council Minutes
Milo Public Library - Monday, June 22, 2015
another note, the Milo Lion’s Club is refurbishing
and painting the band shelter in exchange for the
City of Milo/MidAmerican Energy donation of $500.
Water Distribution System and Sanitary Sewer
System GPS/GIS Mapping – tabled.
Milo City Council was called to order by Mayor
Hitsman at 7:00 p.m. Council answering roll call:
Graham, Hall and Miller. Doss was absent.
Consent Agenda: Motion by Graham to approve
agenda; the June 8, 2015 minutes; and accounts
payable for June 9 – June 22, 2015 in the amount of
$7,997.63. Second by Miller. Ayes-All. Motion
carried.
New Business
Discuss / Approve Council Appointment Council chose to discuss the potential appointees
privately asking them to step out of the room.
Discussion followed. Council invited the potential
employees to return to the council meeting. Motion
by Graham to approve the council appointment of
Joe Kinser. Second by Hall. Ayes-All. Motion carried.
Mayor Hitsman then administered the Oath of
Office to Joe Kinser and he was seated on the City of
Milo Council.
Jim Quick – addressed council and submitted his
resignation as president of the 4th of July Committee
effective immediately. Erica Wadle has replaced him.
Councilman Graham asked for a list of the board
members. City Clerk will provide the information to
council.
Building Permit Application for 212 South 5th
Ave – Motion by Hall to approve the building
application for 212 South 5th Avenue, Milo, Iowa.
Second by Miller. Ayes-All. Motion carried.
Resolution 742: Street Closings for the Annual
4th of July Celebration – Motion by Graham to
approve Resolution 742. Second by Hall. Ayes-All.
Motion carried.
MidAmerican Energy LED Streetlight Initiative –
Mayor Hitsman addressed Council regarding the LED
Streetlight Initiative indicating that it is a 10 year
phase-in project that is free to the City of Milo
unless the city wanted to have a custom update
sooner than it would be $100 per streetlight.
Discussion followed. Councilman Kinser suggested
potentially starting at Main Street. Council asked for
more information regarding cost savings. Item
tabled.
ICAP Property Insurance Deductible Options –
Council discussed remaining with ICAP Insurance
and deductible options / premium savings as well as
the choice of an insurance agency. Motion by
Graham to remain with Weinman Insurance Agency
and ICAP Insurance. Second by Miller. Ayes-All.
Motion carried. Motion by Hall to adjust the ICAP
property insurance deductible from $500 per
occurrence to $2,500 per occurrence saving the City
of Milo $1,246.30 annually. Second by Graham.
Public – none.
Public Hearing: Council Vacancy to Fill by
Appointment
Motion by Graham to open the public hearing to
appoint to a vacant council seat. Second by Hall.
Ayes-All. Motion carried. Mayor Hitsman introduced
the council to the potential appointees and allowed
each interested person to speak. Kristy Rohm spoke
to council indicating that she was fairly new to town
and thoroughly enjoys the small town atmosphere
and wanted to become more involved in the
community. Joe Kinser spoke to council regarding
his family and work background and how it would
benefit Milo. Councilwoman Hall asked each
candidate to tell council an idea they have for
improving of Milo. Joe Kinser spoke saying that he
really liked the changes in the park making sure
dangerous trees are removed. Also, what he has read
in the newsletter about Milo trying to get Mediacom
to provide services in Milo and thought maybe a
survey to find the need in the community. Kristy
Rohm shared her concern about the water in the
ditches and that a plan could be put together to take
care of it. Discussion followed between council and
the potential appointees. Motion by Hall to close the
public hearing to appoint to a vacant council seat.
Second by Graham. Ayes-All. Motion carried.
Old Business
Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements –
no change in status.
Movie licensing – Councilwoman Hall spoke
regarding the sponsoring of the movies for the City
of Milo. Council discussed options and asked that an
article be put in the August newsletter regarding the
idea and need for sponsors and the potential ability
for club fundraisers. Tabled to July 6, 2015.
Departmental Reports
Doug Hembry – City Clerk shared with council
that the City Park bathrooms are being updated
inside and out and the playground equipment in
City Park is being painted. If the rain slows down the
City Park shelter exterior will be updated. On
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(Continued on page 4...)
Milo City Council Minutes
4th of July Committee
Milo Public Library - Monday, June 22, 2015
(...continued from page 3)
Our community is one of the best around. So
many went above and beyond in helping make this
year’s 4th of July a success.
Your 2015 committee members were Lisa ButlerMsuya, Carrie Jacobs, Tangela Mason, Alisha Hunter,
Michelle Fuller, Jim Quick, and Erica Wadle. Wooo
hooo - We survived!!
To the City of Milo - your crew is AMAZING. Park
preparations, volleyball court maintenance, street
closures, all the small details make a huge difference.
Jan and Rudy Wadle, Brian Hertzler, Joan Ehlinger,
Cameron Hertzler your time and dedication between
set up, tear down, supplies, the sound system,
running the volleyball tourney and simply
volunteering wherever needed is so appreciated!
Tiffany Chumbley & Kristie Davis Storm you
rocked the mud run!!!
The church groups, trap team, Spanish club,
nighthawks softball team, the fire department,
Details Plus, and the fireworks crew your time and
efforts were not unnoticed. From running the
concession stand, dunk tank, fireworks, car show, car
smash, and bags tournament, we were able to put on
a memorable celebration.
Jackson Baumgarten you made the park look
spectacular! Mike Allen, Dillon Dykstra, and Howard
Agan, we appreciate the use of convertibles for the
parade. Promotions Plus did a great job with the
handheld fans and bells!
To our numerous volunteers who came thru and
sacrificed their family time - running the check in at
the car show, parade registration, kids’ games,
information booth, raffle ticket stand, set up, clean up
and EVERYTHING in between - WE THANK YOU!!!
Stay turned for details about an up coming poker
tournament this fall and our next Wine Down to
Milo next spring. We look forward to seeing you all
back next year!
We could certainly use more committee members
so if you would like to get involved PLEASE let us
know. Contact us at our email address
milofourthjuly@gmail.com, our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/MiloJuly4th or contact
Erica Wadle at 515-988-9577.
Ayes-All. Motion carried.
Review May 2015 Warren County Sheriff’s
Report – Mayor Hitsman informed council that the
Sheriff has done extra patrol due to youth knocking
on doors and the problem seems to have subsided.
Council discussed the May 2015 Sheriff’s Report.
Review / Approve May 2015 Treasurer’s Report –
Motion by Graham to approve the May 2015
Treasurer’s Report. Second by Hall. Ayes-All.
Motion carried.
Employee Evaluations – Tabled to next meeting
so that Doug Hembry could be in attendance.
City Clerk will distribute to Mayor / Council
Incumbents - City Clerk provided to the incumbents
the Nomination Petition, Affidavit of Candidacy and
Candidates Guide to the Regular City Election. City
Clerk informed council and all present at the
Nomination Petition, with at least 10 signatures, and
the Affidavit of Candidacy must be filed with the
Warren County Auditor. The filing period is August
24 – September 17, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. City Clerk will
have copies available at City Hall if any citizen is
interested in running for City Council. Mayor
Hitsman announced to council that he is not
running again for Mayor. City Clerk has written an
article for the newsletter informing the public that
there are council seats available.
Propositions And Remarks From Mayor And
Council – None.
Adjourn
Motion by Graham to adjourn at 7:42 p.m. Second
by Hall. Ayes-All. Motion carried.
— By order of the Milo City Council
Milo 4th of July 2015 Royalty
Queen ~ Samantha Kosman
King ~ Kole Manser
Pr incess ~ Ali Wadle
Pr ince ~ Dominic Wadle
Great job by all contestants who sold raffle tickets!
Your participants were:
Cassidy Barr
Gwen Williams TJ Dierking
Grant Minton
Trenton Mein Dalton Weeks
Samantha Benesh Alivia Ruble
Dailynn Phinney
Jack Williams
Thank you all for your hard work and for
supporting these kids to help make a difference for
our annual celebration!!!
Golf Cart Registration
If you own or are thinking of purchasing a golf cart
for use within the city limits of Milo, please contact
City Hall for registration information! 641-942-6241
or email cityclerk@cityofmilo.com
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Warren County Nutrition Program
If you are 60+ and
are in need of a home
delivered meal please
contact the Lacona
Meal Site at 614-5343401 or Vicki White
at 515-961-1003.
The suggested
contribution is $3.50
for any one over the
age of 60. Anyone
under 60 the cost of
the meal is $7.68 per
meal. You are always
welcome to attend
the Lacona meal site
or any other site in
Warren County.
4th of July Parade Winners
Movies in Milo?
Novelty
1st place - Indianola Dance Academy
2nd place - Phillips Floors
3rd place - Reynolds Ag
We need your opinion! Milo
City Council has been considering
showing children’s movies once a
month at the Community Center
or in City Park. The City would
need to invest in a projector and
find sponsors to defray the
licensing fee of each movie.
Council has also talked about allowing local groups
to fundraise for themselves by selling concessions.
Obviously a lot of planning and helping hands will
be needed to provide movies to our local youth!
Please consider these questions regarding “Movies
in Milo”: Is it a good idea? What day of the week?
After school on a Wednesday early out? Saturday
morning? Maybe in the evening? Timeframe? Allow
children to bring pillows/blankets? What age group?
Require a parent to stay? Types of food for
concessions? Anything else?
Please return your written opinion to City Hall
or email to cityclerk@cityofmilo.com or attend
the 7:00 pm - August 17, 2015 council meeting.
Thank you!
Bikes
1st place - Andy Kyner
2nd place - Vernon and Tammy Braness
3rd place - Harold Butran
Horses
1st place - Tami Rodgers
2nd place - Danielle Miller
3rd place - Paula Weeks
Tractors
1st place - Nancy Schurman
2nd place - Snuggs Family
3rd place - Edd Robinson
Floats
1st place - Lyle Ohnemus
2nd place - Jackson Baumgarten
3rd place - Amy Johnson
Cars
1st place - Justin Kappelman
2nd place - Dean Fridley
3rd place - Miguel Gracia
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4th of July Raffle
Milk Money Scholarship Fund
Special Raffles
Let Freedom Ring Patriotic Gift Basket Giveaway Meagan Johnson
Cash Raffle Prize - Abby Singleton
Bags Game Set - Dustin Wadle
Shania Twain Tickets - Brad Ball
We are taking donations for a special fund for
students at the Southeast Warren School Milo
Primary Center to pay for afternoon milk, grades K
to 3rd. This afternoon milk is the extra milk students
have during snack time. Not all families are able to
afford this extra milk fee and it is not covered by the
free and reduced lunch program.
If you would like to contribute to this fund, please
mail your check, payable to Southeast Warren
Community Schools, to the Milo Primary School,
316 N. 5th Street, and designate it to the Milk
Money Fund or contact Patty Harrington, 641-9426216, at the Milo Primary School after August 18th.
A semester of afternoon milk for one child is $31.50.
This fund was started seven years ago and provided
milk for many students both during the first and
second semesters. The Milo Methodist Church and
the Milo Lions started this fund. The goal is to
provide afternoon milk to any of the students who
weren’t receiving, who wished to have it. Last year
53 students were provided a semester of milk at the
Primary School. There is no income requirement
anyone is eligible. Some students use the Fund for
both semesters, others just in the fall or spring.
The Milk Money Fund is run through the school
lunch program and all deposits and charges are
tracked, while maintaining the confidentially of the
students receiving milk. You can be confident that
your donation is going directly to a child.
Main Raffle Drawing
3 Piece Luggage Set - Abigail Costigan
Hammock with Stand - Bret Hall
23 Piece Tool Set - Renee Hembry
Patriotic Jumbo Car Visor - Damon Quick
Fuji Camera - Zeb Beck
Keurig Coffee Maker - Lisa Alexander
XL Flat Electric Griddle - Ben Crall
Oscillating Heater - Ethan Scharnhorst
Outdoor Extension Cord - Wesley Duncan
Car Cleaning Kit - Kurt Douglas
Cake Pop Maker - Merna Becker
Metal Outdoor Drink Holders - Sheryl Van Syoc
Kids Razor Tricycle - Denise Marean
Double Glider - Nicole Barning
Fire Pit - Zachary Mosher
Bissell Vacuum - Cody Hunter
Charcoal Grill - Kathy Morrison
Cabin Scenic Glass Lazy Susan - Gary Fridley
50' Garden Hose - Linn Smith
4 Patriotic Tiki Torches - Grace Rowe
Paper Shredder - Chelsea Kingery
Salt/Pepper and Napkin Holder Set - Ben Crall
Giant King Lawn Chair - Josh Dittmer
12v Cordless Drill - Ben Crall
Barbie Bike - Carol Roland
Decorative Table Torches - Zaddie Beck
Solar Welcome Sign - Amanda Bales
Butterfly Bush - Carol Nash
9 Holes Golf at Shady Oaks - Mark Rohn
Pool - B. Estes
Personal Speakers - Brock Manser
Hawkeye Round Table - B. Estes
Kids Game Table - Kurt Douglas
Box of 3M Products - Brandon Dittmer
$20 Frosty’s Lacona Gift Certificates Tom Ripperger, Kaylee Bauer, Kaleb Baumgarten,
Jackson Fischer, Ann Drish
Milo Lions Club Refurbishes Band Shelter
Have you noticed the freshly painted band stage in
City Park? You can thank a Lion’s Club member! The
Lion’s Club repaired, power washed and painted the
band shelter just in time for the 4thof July
Celebration. In appreciation, the City of Milo voted
to give the MidAmerican Annual $500 Community
Donation to the Lion’s Club to use towards more
concrete for the walking / biking trail. One good
turn always deserves another!
Newsletter Submissions
Car Keys Found
On July 14, 2015, a set of Chrysler car keys was
found near 5th Street in Milo. If you think these
might belong to you, please stop by City Hall or call
641-942-6241 to identify.
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Please contact Patty Harrington, 641-942-6232,
or Misti Kosman at the Milo City Hall, 641-942-6241,
to submit items for the newsletter. Or email items
directly to Patty at milonews@iowatelecom.net.
Submissions to the Milo Newsletter are due by the
20th of the preceding month.
City Concrete/Tree Dump Locked
Disaster Applications Available
Rural Warren County Outreach Office
The Milo City Dump will be locked due to illegal
dumping. A key, for Milo citizens only, will be
available at City Hall during normal business hours.
The City Dump will be unlocked on Saturday and
Sunday from 8 am – 6 pm for citizen’s use. The
only items allowed in the City Dump are concrete,
dirt and yard vegetation (including trees). Absolutely
no lumber or trash!
Governor Terry E. Branstad issued a proclamation
of disaster emergency for Rural Warren County as a
result of recent severe weather and heavy rains
during June 2015. The Governor’s proclamation
allows state resources to be utilized to respond to
and recover from the effects of a severe storms that
significantly impacted the counties.
This proclamation activates the Iowa Individual
Assistance Program which provides grants of up to
$5,000 for households with income levels up to 200
percent of the federal poverty level (example: or a
maximum annual income of $40,180 for a family of
three). Grants are available for home or car repairs,
replacement of clothing, personal property or food,
and for the expense of temporary housing
Applications for Iowa Individual Assistance
Programs are being taken by Joanna Crane at the
following office: Red Rock Area Community Action,
Warren County Site Office, 1009 S Jefferson Way,
Indianola, IA 50125, (515) 961-2543.
Applications are also available on the Iowa
Department of Human Services website, but
applications will need to be taken to the Warren
County Office to be processed. Potential applicants
have 45 days from the date of the proclamation or
until August 10th to submit an application/claim.
Red Rock Area Community Action will determine
household eligibility for the program. Upon
approval, vouchers will be issued to for eligible
disaster related repairs or to purchase eligible
replacement items from written estimates. Original
receipts are required for those seeking
reimbursement from paid actual expenses related to
storm recovery.
Library News
The Milo Public Library will be having a back to
school pizza party for school age children on
Thursday, August 20th at 6:30 p.m. Please let us
know if your child will be attending so that we are
able to purchase an adequate amount of pizza. We
will also be playing board games that evening and
will have a drawing for a few prizes. If your child is
planning on attending, contact Miss Renee or Miss
Nancy at milolibrary@iowatelecom.net, 641-9426557 or let us know when you are in the library.
Also in August we will continue our Reading
Buddies Program. Your child may sign up to come
in to read with Nancy or Renee on Thursday
afternoons from 2-4 p.m. We have fun with this
program in the month of July. Any extra reading a
child can do over the summer will help them more
then you know when school starts in the fall. If they
can’t come read with us remember to let your child
read to you and you read to them.
Just a reminder that if you like to look at
magazines, we have over 70 different publications
here at the Milo Public Library. They can be checked
out for a period of time. Come in today and see if we
have anything that interests you.
Check out our Facebook page. Look up Milo
Public Library. Lots of updates on what has been
going on at the library and what is to come.
Kiddie Parade Winners
Bikes
1st place - Rylynn Mason
2nd place - Laine Mason
3rd place - Kaleb Baumgarten
Milo’s Got Talent Show Winners
Division 12 and Under
1st Place - Kaylee Bauer, Maddi Logue, Zoey Sherman
2nd Place - Hailie Spiker
Novelty
1st place - Dailynn Phinney
2nd place - Bill Hinrichs
3rd place - Cole and Sasha Wieck
Division 13 and above
1st Place - Courtney Miller
2nd Place - Annika Shaw and Annie Tate
Honorable Mention - Hunter Talbot
Patriotic
1st place - Trace Storm
2nd place - Josephine Edginton
3rd place - Carson Fredregill and Karter Crutthers
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Tour of Homes
City of Milo - Yard of the Month
Planning has started for the 23rd
Annual “A Frosted Christmas” Milo
Small Town Country Christmas.
Anyone wishing to open their home
for our Tour Of Homes please contact
Jackson Baumgarten at 515.720.7883.
We appreciate your support!
The City of Milo would like to recognize those
who take pride in their yards! Vote on your favorite
yard by filling out the information below and drop
off at the City Hall by the 2nd Friday of the month.
One winner will receive the “Yard of the Month”
sign to display in their yard for the entire month.
This is a people’s choice award so a resident may win
more than once and consecutively. The yard with
the most votes wins!
Essay Winner
Name and address of yard owner:
“Why I love Milo’s 4th of July Celebration”
__________________________________________________
The Milo 4th of July Committee selected J’Lyn
Knutson’s essay as the winner of the “Why I love
Milo’s 4th of July Celebration” Essay Contest. J’Lyn
is in 7th grade and the granddaughter of Pat and
Sharon Knoer. Enjoy reading J’Lyn’s winning essay!
“There are many reasons why I love the Milo 4th
of July celebration. I got to be in the kiddie parade.
My family does “Horse Poop Bingo”, which is fun.
I also love playing games in the park. These are
only a few of the memories that make me love the
4th of July!
We have a tradition on the 4th of July called,
“Horse Poop Bingo. The parade goes past my
grandma and grandpa’s house. That’s where we play
it. Before the parade, we mark numbers on the street
with chalk. You pay a dollar for a number before the
parade, and hope a horse poops on your number.
Then you win the money. If there’s poop on two, the
people who tie have to split the money. One time
my grandpa won. He gave my sister, cousin, and me
some money.
I also loved being in the kiddie parade for 6 years.
On my second year, we put my toy, Butterscotch,
pony in my grandpa’s wagon. My cousin and I were
dressed up as cowgirls. We had cowgirl hats, vests,
handkerchiefs, and cap guns. We sat on Butterscotch.
We got first place in the Wild, Wild West kiddie
parade.
I love the Milo 4th of July celebration because the
games in the park. When I was younger I won the
watermelon seed spitting contest. We had kid races
in the park. One of my favorite activities in the park
is Bingo! I got to bring a frog for a frog jumping
contest last year.
Overall this fun tradition has run through my
family along time, and it will not end with me. The
parade, “Horse Poop Bingo”, and games are just the
most fun parts of the tradition. They are the reasons
I love to be part of the celebration.
__________________________________________________
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Why should it be awarded “Yard of the Month”?
__________________________________________________
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Additional Comments:
__________________________________________________
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School Supply Program
Red Rock Area Community Action Program
Warren County Center is kicking off it’s
fundraising for school supplies.
Last year, over 160 area youth utilized this
program. This program is completely funded with
donations from local community organizations,
churches, and individuals. Supplies will be available
August 3rd for local students. For more information,
please contact our office at 515-961-2543.
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Milo Lions Club
What a glorious 4th of July Milo enjoyed! The
weather cooperated. The Milo Mud Run did well for
us, and for our pedestrian/bike trail project. So did
the bounce houses and bingo. Folks sure seemed to
enjoy the new bingo benches/tables. Thanks to
Pierce Brothers Repair for their very welcome help
with metal work. (Yes, the generous and talented
Troy Williams often helps us with metal projects.
Have you seen his beautiful work on our trail
benches? They’re worth the look. Anyway, there are
other people eager to help when our club needs
special skills. God bless them for their generosity
too.) Folks in the front bingo ranks added to their
fun by making the caller blush several times. And, in
the early hours, we seemed to have a good natured
microphone competition going with the park stage.
You know, the stage our club, led by President Randy
Uttley, tuck-pointed and painted in time for the big
day. We tip our hats to the gracious entertainers who
used the stage through the afternoon. They didn’t
overwhelm our bingo, and we hope that we didn’t
spoil any of their performance.
Be it known that, in a few days, Lion Jay Mosher
will celebrate his birthday. As Van & Bonnie would
say, “it ends in a zero.” Jay’s children held an
advance celebration at Motor Friends Church the
afternoon of July 5th. Most of you know that I do
not drive. Jay not only introduced me to the Milo
Lions Club, but he’s taken it upon himself, for years,
to make sure that I get to and from club meetings.
Oh it is true that I owe many people for that sort of
kindness, but Jay has easily logged the most hours. I
bought a local yearbook some time back, which
turned out to include Jay’s graduating class. Jay was
voted most likely to succeed. I believe by most
measures that he has proven the prediction right.
I’ve found him to be a remarkably moral and ethical
man who takes his responsibilities to church, family,
and community seriously. His stories of local history
are endlessly fascinating, as are those about the ups
and downs within Iowa’s Capitol, where Jay busies
himself within, and without, the printing office. I
believe it is Jay’s sense of humor which has helped
him endure. He looks for, and usually finds, the
humor in things, and then he shares it. Happy
birthday Jay! And thank-you.
I can imagine most of the good and bad things
said about me. This is the reward of shouting out
when something, or someone, is wrong. I prefer the
happy stories, the “Here is someone doing it right,
why don’t you see if you can equal or top them?” I
apologize for not seeing all the good people are
doing. And I apologize for not expressing my
admiration as well as I might wish. God sees all, and
rewards people according to their works. Me? I labor
several floors lower, and closer to my pay grade.
Even so, I’ll share what I find. And while I might
occasionally temper my words to offer
encouragement or to spare someone’s feelings, I
endeavor to tell the truth as much as I know it. Life
is too short for lies. Those who blow empty sunshine
usually blow it.
What do you think of when I mention John
Swartzendruver? I don’t have to be next to you to
know that you are smiling. John is like the reformed
version of Ebenezer Scrooge. He’s about as good a
man and as good a neighbor as our good old town
has ever known. John has known tough times and
hard moments, and he’s learned the best possible
therapy for them. He helps others facing struggles of
their own. I am in awe of his compassion, which
blessed me long before I got to know him. When I’ve
faced the backlash of saying something people don’t
want to hear, John has called me up to say
something akin to, “You done good.” It’s funny.
John’s silence has been more reason to re-examine
my position than all the words of my critics. I do not
believe I’m the only beneficiary of his kindness. I
have every reason to believe that I am just one of
many. It’s meant a lot to me. How about to you?
Do you look at your past and think, “I did some
things that I wish someone had noticed.” or, “I’ve
done things I sure wish people hadn’t seen.”? Part of
growing up and growing older is cultivating the
former and limiting the latter. One of the greatest
compliments I ever received came from Merna
Becker. (Sorry Merna, how often have I tried to spell
your name “Myrna?”) Merna once watched someone
do something self-serving and unethical. She
channeled her frustration by turning to me and
saying, “You never would have done that.” She was
half right. There were times, thankfully long ago,
when I did my share of selfish, mean, and
destructive things. Perhaps you can imagine the
bullies I knew as a kid. I’m glad you can’t. My
solution was to become meaner, harder, and more
9
(Continued on page 10...)
Milo Lions Club
Warren County Fit Club
(...continued from page 9)
Warren County Fit Club will be starting regular
Turbo Kick/PiYo classes on September 8th at 6:00
at the Milo Community Center. Come torch some
serious calories and have fun getting fit. Please
contact Kristie Storm with any questions at
641-414-4267. Stay in the Warren County Fit Club
loop by liking us on Facebook!
cunning than them. That’s no solution. It’s poison.
Good cannot be accomplished with more evil.
Perhaps you’ve heard that Jesus Christ is
transformative? It’s truer than many know. I am not
the man I was. The old me wouldn’t even recognize
the new me. Thank my pastor and his wife, Howard
and Lanita Town. It’s said Jesus could do no miracles
in his home…village. The Towns are gems in our
midst. When Merna made her declaration, I felt that
maybe I was making progress on a better path. I will
treasure her words forever. It felt like winning the
lottery, and then some.
Last, for now, but not least, appreciate your Cub
Scout and Boy Scout leaders. Think of Lisa and
Jayson Prater, Mike Fridley, Brian Jimenez, and, some
years back, Kelly Hayes. Mike and Brian spent a week
in July shepherding several SEW boys at Camp
Mitigwa. All these folks give of themselves to make
our world a richer better place. It takes time, energy,
and commitment, and they’ve contributed in full
measure. The same talents find expression in our
Milo Lions Club. We like to think we’re making
yours a better richer world.
We Are Still Collecting
Indianola Hy-Vee Receipts!!!
Keep those Hy-vee
receipts coming! They really
make a difference. Hy-Vee is
continuing their donations
as we continue to collect
the receipts. They appreciate
our business and give back
to the Milo Community! If
you need to drop off your
receipts stop by a local
business or contact a
Community Projects, Inc
committee member.
— Lion Alan S. Gardner
Warren County Izaak Walton League
City of Milo Curfew
Hunters Education class that we host with the
Warren County Conservation Board is coming up in
August. The classes will be on Thursday August 6th
and Saturday August 8th. Those interested need to
contact the WCCB at 515-961-6169.
We have sign up for our fall trap shooting leagues
in August as well. Monday night the 24th and
Thursday the 20th and 27th. Open trap shooting is
on Tuesday’s at 6:30 pm until end of October and
Thursdays until League starts up.
We have a calendar on our www.warrenikes.com
web page that will be updated with our activities.
City of Milo Ordinance 46.01 CURFEW. “The
Council has determined that a curfew for minors is
necessary to promote the public health, safety,
morals, and general welfare of the City and
specifically to reinforce the primary authority and
responsibility of adults responsible for minors; to
protect the public from the illegal acts of minors
committed after the curfew hour; and to protect
minors from improper influences and criminal
activity that prevail in public places after the curfew
hour…… 2. Curfew Established. No minor shall be
in a public place between the following hours:
Sunday – Thursday 11:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m. and
Friday – Saturday 12:00 midnight – 5:00 a.m. ……”
The complete ordinance is available for review at
City Hall.
Recycle Ink Cartridges & Cel Phones
The Southeast Warren Primary School in Milo is
recycling used inkjet cartridges and old cell phones.
Simply drop off your used inkjet cartridges and old
cell phones with us - you can include cell phone
batteries and even cell phone chargers. The drop-off
location is the Southeast Warren Primary or
Intermediate Schools or at the Milo Post Office.
Visit us on the web at:
www.cityofmilo.com
10
Warren County Farm Tour
Get in touch with Warren County’s eclectic rural
agriculture scene during the first annual Warren
County Farm Tour on Sunday, August 30th from
11am-6 pm. Visit 9 local niche farms that will offer
up-close experiences with everything from growing
fruits, vegetables and herbs to raising ducks, goats
and even worms! In addition to having some good
wholesome fun on the farm, you will have the
opportunity to buy fresh from the farm products like
homemade soaps/lotions, candles, honey, flowers, ice
cream, jellies, fresh baked pies and more from a
variety of local vendors.
Warren County has an eclectic and robust
agricultural scene. This new event invites guests of
all ages to visit 10 of our unique Warren County
niche farms to have an up close experience with life
on the farm. A day full of inspiration, fun and
finding out where our food comes from! Please help
us make the first annual Warren County Farm Tour a
roaring success and consider sponsoring at one of
the levels below.
garden, restrooms, & air conditioning.
Laotian Farm - Phrakhounmany Philavanh, or
simply “Air” is an immigrant from Laos who is
getting back to his roots on his 11 acre farm near
Milo, IA. Adopting methods of farming in order to
minimize costs and maximize the use of every inch
of land he has implemented a rotation system to
keep his ducks, chickens, goats and cattle well taken
care of. Air raises specific breeds of animals that are
desired by different cultures including Muskovy
Duck, which are a Laotian favorite.
Ridge Top Horse Ranch - Horse Stable, Horseback
Trail Rides in Iowa, Boarding stalls/pasture, Indoor
Arena, Viewing area, meeting room rental for
birthdays, reunions, parties, FFA groups, scouts, and
more to come! Overnight Horse Hotel Stay, Western
Riding Lessons for kids and adults, Summer Horse
Camps, Horse Arena for rent also!
The Farm - Attractions at The Farm include a
petting zoo with a pony, goat, calf, chickens, and a
pig. There will be children?s farm games & farm
education, hay rack rides & vintage equipment
showcased. John restores old farm machinery and
visitors will enjoy seeing these impressive historic
farm implements . Lori also appreciates farm history.
Enjoy spending time wandering through her shop
discovering antique and re-purposed vintage items.
Peace & Plenty Farm - Steve and Beth Voltmer,
owners and caretakers of Peace & Plenty Farm,
purchased the property from Steve’s parents in 2006.
When you visit, you’ll enjoy watching the kids (16
and under) fish from our pond. There will be a small
petting zoo, too! Bluegrass music, Catered food, with
Warren County farm raised beef and (hopefully)
sheep will be available for purchase from our local
restaurant, The Depot.
Willis Farm - The Willis farm, located in the SW
part of Warren County, is primarily used for the
production of hay and pasture. In addition, five large
gardens produce a variety of garden vegetables sold
at farmers’ markets in Indianola and Norwalk. Those
vegetables are also made into salsa, relishes, jams
and jellies. They also commercially produce zinnias
which are sold to florists.
Fairview Community Church - Restrooms, air
conditioning, food & craft vendors.
So come and have some fun, be inspired and
find out where your food comes from!
Go to www.WarrenCountyFarmTour.com, find us
on Facebook or call Beth McGeough at 515-961-7252
to find out more about our 2015 tour line-up!
Farms on the Tour
Fogle’s 40 Organic Acres has been developed on
what was a former clay and coal mine. Scrub trees
and brush were cleared to create the fields. The
hardy shrubs have withstood harsh winters, late
season frosts, dry summers, and 17-year Cicada
infestation.
Butcher Creek Produce grow vegetables. This year
there are over 12,000 onions, 1,000 tomato plants
including heirloom tomatoes, 250 pounds of seed
potatoes which will yield 25,000 potatoes, 40,000
beets, 800 cabbage plants, 1,000 assorted pepper
plants, kale, collard and green beans, broccoli,
cucumbers, pumpkins, melons and sweet corn.
Where in Iowa can you find 900,000 African Night
Crawlers? At the Wyatt Family Farm, Central Iowa
Organic Fertilizer (CIOF). Here you will learn how
worms are hatched, fed, grown into full sized night
crawlers and how the organic worm castings are
extracted, bagged and readied for delivery. CIOF
harvests about a ton of castings every three days.
Worm castings are very popular with Master
Gardeners, Organic Farmers and especially with
novice gardeners!
Edge of the Woods Raspberry Farm - Beth and
Rick McGeough grow raspberries, red and black,
blueberries, blackberries and tart cherries on their 65
acre farm. There you can pick your own berries or
shop in the Berry Building for tantalizing fresh fruit
pies, jams, jellies, relishes.
Annette Nature Center - Prairie & native veggie
11
Fourth Annual Lacona Celebration
5K Fun Run/Walk
Saturday, August 29th
9:00 am
The route will be both on and off road and will wind through beautiful native prairie on the outskirts of
Lacona. The perfect route for a run or leisurely walk. All proceeds from this walk/run will go back to
fund adult fitness equipment in the city park.
Race Day Check-In: 8:00-8:45am, runners and walkers at the Lacona Park
First name
Last name
Street address
city, state, zip
T-shirt size: (circle one)
s
m
age (on race day)
l
phone/email
xl
xxl
Age divisions: 16 and under, 17 and over (adult) Medals will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in
each division. Medal awarded for most improved time from 2014 5K also.
Registration: $25.00 if registered by August 10th, $30 up to day of race. Please add $5.00 for xxl tshirt. Late registrations are not guaranteed a shirt or correct size.
Make checks payable to Lacona Celebration Committee and mail form and fee to: Lacona Celebration
5K PO Box 148 Lacona, Iowa 50139
WAIVER AND RELEASE STATEMENT
(All participants must read and sign)
In consideration of the acceptance of my entry, I hereby represent that I have read this application
fully and certify that I have full knowledge of the risks involved in this event and that I am physically
able to participate in it and have no medical conditions that prevent my participation. I hereby by for
myself, heirs, executors and administrators waive and release all claims against the Lacona Celebration
Committee, City of Lacona, USA Track & Field, and all organizers and sponsors involved with this event.
Signature:
Date:
*Complete and separate form required for each participant, in the event of heavy rain or
lightning the event may be cancelled.
*Sanctioned by USA Track & Field