STORYCOUNTYSUN.COM • INSIDE: REAL ESTATE WEEKLY • VOL. 13, IS. 9 • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2020
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The Story City Friends Endowment recently presented a $1,000 check to the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry of Story City. From left, Al Holm (Story City Friends Endowment), Betty Grinde, (Loaves & Fishes), Dale Henricks (Story City Friends Endowment) and Brandie and Hayden Gossel (Loaves & Fishes). CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Story City Friends Endowment donates $1,000 to Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry of Story City The Story City Friends Endowment recently presented a $1,000 check to the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry of Story City. This award, part of the endowment’s annual contribution back
Flora Wellington, a third-grade student at United Community School, finished in third place in the Iowa Reading Association’s Creative Writing Contest with an original poetry entry titled “A Shadowy Scare.” CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Flora Wellington, a third-grader at United Community School, places third in Iowa Reading Association’s Creative Writing Contest Flora Wellington, a third-grade student at United Community School, finished in third place in the Iowa Reading Association’s Creative Writing Contest. She wrote an original poetry entry titled “A Shadowy Scare.” Students from across Iowa submitted their original compositions to the contest to be judged through their local
reading councils. Flora’s teacher, Mrs. Josilyn Schmidt, represented the Boone/Story Reading Council. Winners have received a letter of congratulations and a certificate honoring their accomplishments. Normally the firstplace winners from each grade level, K-12, are recognized at the June conference each summer.
However, due to health concerns relating to large group gatherings with the coronavirus, the Iowa Reading Association Summer Conference in Ames has been canceled. For more information on the Iowa Reading Association or the Creative Writing Contest (short stories and poetry), visit www.iowareading.org.
to the community, is one of several awards which will be given out during 2020. Funds will used toward food pantry operations and supplies during these challenging times. For more informa-
tion on how your donations to the Stor y City Friends Endowment help to support the community on a permanent on-going basis, please contact Dwayne Fiihr at (515) 733-4486.
Nominations open for 16th-annual Philanthropy Day Awards Nominations are being sought for the 16th-annual Philanthropy Day Awards presented by the Story County Alliance for Philanthropy. The awards recognize individuals, families, groups and businesses throughout Story County who have exhibited outstanding financial or leadership support for any charitable cause. With the occurrence of the coronavirus in 2020, there are many examples of organizations and individuals who have contributed greatly this year. Award categories include: Individual/ Family Philanthropist, Business/Corporate/ Foundation Philanthropist, Individual Volunteer Fundraiser, Group Volunteer Fundraiser and Youth Volunteer Fundraiser.
Jean Kresse, president and CEO of the United Way of Story County, said “We are so proud of the giving spirit of our community and appreciate the opportunity to say thank you for helping to make things even better in our community.” Any individual, group, business, corporation or foundation within Story County may be considered. The first step in the nomination process is to submit a short intent to nominate form, due by June 26, 2020. The form can be found online at www. storycountyphilanthropy.org or submitted in person at the United Way of Story County office, 315 Clark Ave., in Ames. Full nomination forms, which can also be found on the web-
site or at the United Way office, are due July 31, 2020. Philanthropy Day is supported by many organizations and individuals who give their time and talent as members of the Story County Alliance for Philanthropy. The members of the alliance recognize the importance of Philanthropy and volunteer year-round to celebrate and support Philanthropy in Story County. Award winners will be honored at the 2020 Philanthropy Day celebration on Nov. 19, 2020, at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames. For more information, visit www.storycountyphilanthropy. org or call the United Way of Story County office at (515) 2685142.
Editor’s Note: With how rapidly everything is changing related to COVID-19, please visit the Ames Tribune website, www.amestrib.com, for more information as it becomes available. Follow the Ames Tribune on Facebook as well. Community calendar suspended: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that no gatherings with 50 people or more take place for the next eight weeks to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. Due to this, and the constantly-changing environment surrounding COVID-19 throughout the county and state, the Ames Tribune will suspend its community calendar until further notice. Thank you for your understanding.
PAGE 2 • STORY COUNTY SUN • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2020 The Story County Sun is published weekly on Wednesdays by Gannett Co., Inc., at 317 Fifth St., Ames, IA, 50010. (515) 233-3299 Mary Beth Scott, sales manager, (515) 663-6951, MScott@amestrib.com. Ali Eernisse, RE Weekly, (515) 663-6956, AEernisse@amestrib.com. Kylee Mullen, content coordinator, (515) 663-6901, news@midiowasun.com. Director of Sales: Kim Fowler
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VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES VOLU N TEER CEN TER OF STORY COU N T Y
“Being good is commendable but only when it is combined with doing good is it useful.” — Unknown The Volunteer Center of Story County connects people of all ages with volunteer opportunities, promotes volunteering and recognizes volunteers. For additional information, to volunteer, or to list volunteer needs, visit www.vcstory.org, call (515) 268-5323, email director@vcstory.org or visit from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
ADVOCATE FOR QUALITY LONG-TERM CARE
Office of State Long-Term Care Ombudsman The Volunteer Ombudsman Program is currently accepting new applicants across the State of Iowa at this time. Volunteer Ombudsman are trained, certified volunteers who visit one local long-term care facility to advocate for residents’ rights. This included visiting with residents about their quality of care and quality of life in the facility and seeking to resolve any of their concerns in cooperation with the facility. This unique and rewarding opportunity requires a minimum commitment of three hours per month for one year. COVID-19 OPPORTUNITIES
Multiple agencies
are healthy, not at-risk and are able to volunteer are encouraged to get involved. Organizations seeking volunteers are taking available safety precautions for volunteers, staff and clients. Volunteers are encouraged to do the same. Positions include Pen Pals with Central Iowa RSVP, making homemade face masts for Mary Greeley Medical Center and packing food boxes for the Food Bank of Iowa.
OVERNIGHT VOLUNTEERS
Martha’s House of Hope
VEGETABLE HARVESTERS
Mustard Seed Community Farm
Volunteers stay at the house from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. Duties include ensuring curfew is met and helping in emergencies or when babies arrive. A comfortable bed is provided for volunteers to sleep.
Every week on Tuesday and Friday for 20 weeks (May to October) harvesters are needed for three hours to learn how to safely harvest, handle, wash, pack and store more than 50 kinds of vegetables. Volunteers receive a box of vegetables each time.
Multiple agencies
VOLUNTEER CONSERVATOR OR GUARDIAN
SENIOR HEALTH INSURANCE INFORMATION PROGRAM ASSISTANT
Want to serve from home? Reiman Gardens has several projects you can work on for their upcoming fall events, the American Red Cross is looking for support for its programs and services, including supporting communication between active military members and their families, and maintaining an events calendar with VCSC.
Iowa Department Mary Greeley of Human Services Medical Center
VIRTUAL VOLUNTEERING
BLOOD DONOR Volunteers are still needed at many local agencies and organizations. There are multiple opportunities for you to volunteer from home for your favorite causes. Needs are clustered together on the VCSC online referral website. Volunteers who
appointment at the donor center or a blood drive near you.
LIfeServe Blood Center Donating blood is one of the easiest ways to give back to your community. Call 1-800-2874903 to schedule your donation
Volunteers are needed to serve as conservators or guardians for wards of the state, typically individuals with mental illness, mental disabilities, or dementia. Volunteers use skills with accounting, real estate, taxes, etc. to work with professionals from DHS and other service agencies to handle matters such as paying bills, settling outstanding debts, selling, leasing, mortgaging property, investing funds or fi ling taxes for some one unable to make sound decisions on their own.
Provide one-on-one assistance to help Medicare beneficiaries, caregivers, or representatives with questions and problems related to Medicare and health insurances. Assist the sponsor site (MGMC) to create awareness or SHIP/SMP services in the county, including informal discussions and group presentations. The position is needed for four hours every other week December through October, and a minimum of four hours every week October through December each year.
For more volunteer opportunities with Central Iowa RSVP and Volunteer Center of Story County, visit www.amestrib.com.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2020 • STORY COUNTY SUN • PAGE 3
PEOPLE
Nevada Kiwanis Student Recognition
The Roland-Story FFA Chapter was recently awarded a “Gold” rating in the area of public relations as they were recognized as one of 15 FFA chapters in the state of Iowa to be awarded a WHO public relations award. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Roland-Story FFA receives award, gold rating for public relations The Roland-Story FFA Chapter was recently awarded a “Gold” rating in the area of public relations as they were recognized as one of 15 FFA chapters in the state of Iowa to be awarded a WHO public relations award. The WHO Public Relations Award highlights chapters that
have done an outstanding job in using their voice to tell the story of agriculture and our organization by being an advocate for their own FFA Chapter. Congratulations to Roland-Story FFA on being recognized as one of 15 FFA chapters in Iowa for this achievement.
The mission of the Nevada Kiwanis Club is to work together to provide opportunities and support for the children of our community and the world. For 30 years Nevada Kiwanis has held a Recognition Event for middle school (7-8 grades) and senior high students that excelled in academics, and leadership and “most improved” as nominated by faculty and principals. Many of those students had also transitioned through Kiwanis “Service Leadership Program” clubs in the school, such as K-Kids, Builders Club, and Key Club. K-Kids, led by Kristi Kenealy just completed raising $2,000 for the county animal shelter and Key Club, led by Teresa Kaloupek, serves at Harmony Clothing Closet, helped with a Kiwanis book drive to put children’s books in laundromats, and also helped with Step into Storybooks. With the effects of the global pandemic still being felt, the spring Recognition Event for this year’s
nominees could not be held. The question became, “how do we recognize this year’s good efforts?” As an alternative, the Kiwanians of Nevada, Iowa wish to recognize ALL students, as well as parents and school employees of the District for their resiliency in these trying times.
We know sacrifices are being made and acts of good will and service are still being carried out. Many plans had to be adapted, postponed, or cancelled. This may not have created the memories we all wished for, but hopefully created more of the character we strive for. So, to the students of
Nevada School District, we say, ‘CONGRATULATIONS’ for rising to and meeting these challenges. Covid-19 will go away, but the YOU, the future of our community, country, and world, will always be there. On this our greatest hopes rest. NEVADA KIWANIS, Spring 2020
PAGE 4 • STORY COUNTY SUN • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2020
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES C E N T R A L I OWA R S V P
Connecting people to purpose Adopt-a-Flower-Garden RSVP is looking for two to three volunteers who would like to plant and maintain a flower garden as part of the Adopt-aFlower-Garden program through the city of Ames. Mulching and planting will take place in mid to late May and volunteers are encouraged to weed and maintain the garden throughout the summer. To learn more contact RSVP at (515) 292-8890. Fraud Fighters One in three Americans ages 65 and older are scammed, losing $36.5 billion annually to financial exploitation, criminal fraud and caregiver abuse. The Iowa Insurance Division (IID) is requesting help from RSVP in implementing their Fraud Fighters Program. Volunteers will conduct presentations to educate community members (primarily targeting seniors and retirees) on types of fraud, provide prevention tips to avoid fraud, and provide resources to assist you if you are a victim of fraud. Training and all presentation materials for volunteer presenters will be provided by IID staff. To learn more, contact RSVP at (515) 292-8890. Salvation Army Representative Payee VolunteerLooking for volunteers to distribute weekly checks and review receipts and visit with payees to monitor any changes to their status or any other impending issues. Volunteers should be able to communicate well, write legibly and keep accurate records. Training and supervision will be
Orientation Contact Central Iowa RSVP at (515) 292-8890 to arrange for an orientation for volunteers.
Information For more information about RSVP, please visit the website, www. rsvpvolunteer.org, like the Facebook page, Central Iowa RSVP, or call (515) 292-8890.
provided as well as the opportunity to attend meetings as scheduled. Needing two volunteers for one to three hours from 9 a.m. to noon on Tuesdays. Call RSVP at (515) 292-8890 for more information. Food Pantry/Doing the Most Good Market Attendants Looking for volunteers to help with food pantry and market pantry from 12:45 to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday . Volunteers will meet and greet families, direct them through the pantry and market and assist with sorting, shelving or restocking needs. This job requires standing, lifting (20lbs) and kneeling. A cheerful attitude and ability to respect the confidentiality of all those who visit the Salvation Army is a must. The Salvation Army encourages volunteers who can work on a consistent basis. To learn more contact RSVP at (515) 292-8890. Volunteer Ombudsman/Advocate The Office of the State LongTerm Care Ombudsman is searching for dedicated volunteers for its Volunteer Ombuds-
RSVP offers adult volunteers aged 55+ quality opportunities to share their skills, interests and life experiences in response to a wide variety of community needs. Serving Story County since 1973 and Marshall County since 2003, RSVP recruits volunteers from all economic, educational and social backgrounds.
man Program (VOP). Volunteer Ombudsmen will receive free training to become certified volunteers who visit local long-term care facilities and advocate for residents’ rights. This includes visiting with residents about their quality of care and quality of life in the facility and seeking to resolve any of their concerns in cooperation with the facility. This unique and rewarding opportunity requires a minimum commitment of three hours per month. To learn more contact RSVP at (515) 292-8890 RSVP Volunteer Driver Transportation Program You can make a difference in the lives of Story County residents by becoming part of a pool of volunteers who provide occasional rides to those in need of transportation. Priority is given to seniors needing rides to medical appointments. This service is provided entirely by volunteers who use their own vehicles. One to two more Nevada drivers are needed to help riders in that area. Please call RSVP at (515) 292-8890 for more information. Reiman Gardens Butterfly Wing Docents - Volunteer among the butterflies! Volunteers are needed to help with monitoring the space to ensure that USDA regulations are followed and the butterflies are contained within the exhibit. These volunteers, also known as Butterfly Wing Docents, interact directly with the public answering questions about the butterflies and plants in the exhibit. All new Butterfly Wing Docents are required to attend one training
session. Prefer two-hour commitments with both weekday and weekend opportunities available between 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Perfect for individuals and couples. To learn more contact RSVP at (515) 292-8890 Conservatory Docents - Do you enjoy interacting with people and teaching others? Are you into tropical plants? Reiman Gardens’ new Conservatory Docent volunteer position might be the perfect opportunity for you! Conservatory Docents greet visitors to the Hughes Conservatory, share information about the plants and current center display, and are available for questions. No plant knowledge is necessary to get started. Weekday and weekend opportunities are available. Perfect for individuals and couples. Mary Greeley Medical Center Caring Hands Volunteer The Caring Hands Program uses trained volunteers to provide non-therapeutic hand massage to patients and/or family members at the William R. Bliss Cancer Center. The volunteer will provide an opportunity for patients/family members to receive a voluntary, complimentary, hand massage using gloved hands, with gentle massage. Volunteers will introduce themselves and the service to the patient/family member. A minimum six-month commitment is required. 9 to 11 a.m. on Mondays. Call RSVP at (515) 2928890 for more information.
For volunteer opportunities with Central Iowa RSVP and Volunteer Center of Story County, visit www.amestrib.com.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2020 • STORY COUNTY SUN • PAGE 5
PEOPLE
Eva Kellen, May Student of the Month for Nevada FFA and Ag Ed Eva Kellen, Nevada FFA May Student of the Month 2019 District FFA Soils Team 2019 Fall FFA Mum & Pumpkin sales 2019 Presenter to Ames Kiwanis 2019 PAS Ag Education participant 2020 Iowa FFA Legislative Symposium 2020 Subdistrict Prepared Public Speaking 2020 North Central District FFA Contest volunteer 2020 Nevada FFA Banquet officer 2019-20 Middle School Ag Day Co-Chairperson 2020 National Honor Society Inductee Daughter of Kim & Jeff Kellen Class of 2020 Picture Nevada FFA Eva Kellen, Nevada High School Ag Ed-FFA student of the month
The Roland-Story FFA Chapter was recently awarded a “Gold” rating in the very prestigious Supreme National Chapter Award at the state FFA convention, which was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. CONTRIB UTED PHOTO
R-S FFA earns honor at Virtual State Convention The Roland-Story FFA Chapter was recently awarded a “Gold” rating in the very prestigious Supreme National Chapter Award. Due to COVID-19, the state FFA convention was canceled, but the state officer team put together a virtual conference this past week. In the area of Chapter Awards, Roland-Story was one of 26 chapters in the state that received recognition by earning a “Gold” rating. The National Chapter Award Program
is designed to recognize FFA chapters that actively implement the mission and strategies of the organization. These chapters improve chapter operations using the National Quality Chapter Standards and a Program of Activities (POA) that emphasize growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture. Chapters are rewarded for providing educational experiences for the entire membership.
Eva Kellen is the Nevada High School Ag Ed-FFA May Student of the Month. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
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PAGE 6 • STORY COUNTY SUN • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2020
PEOPLE
ERP’s Stumbo visits with Town and Country Kiwanis Judi Stumbo, executive director of the Emergency Residence Project (ERP) recently visited the Town and Country Kiwanis Club in its weekly virtual meeting. ERP serves needy men, women and families in Story, Marshall, Boone, Hardin and Greene counties. She says the clients are good people and living from paycheck to paycheck, for whatever reason they find themselves homeless requiring assistance to recover.
ERP in Ames is located on South Kellogg Avenue with its main building, a nearby duplex and a quadruplex. The residents of the main building are living in rented motel rooms on account of the current pandemic. During the past 10 months, ERP has provided 16,000 nights of shelter for 630 people, She is impressed with community support for ERP. Assistance from the city of Ames, Story County and United Way of Story County have provided the
needed funds for these motel rooms estimated to be $52,000 through June 30. She is also impressed with our volunteer spirit. The long-range plans being considered include a name change from Emergency Residence Project; a fundraising campaign for a building a new facility that would include a wing for women; a wing for men; and a wing for families. It also would include a day shelter, and areas for medical assistance and spaces
Run for Roses donates $21K to National Arthritis Foundation Judi Stumbo
for related social service agencies. Stumbo’s message was optimistic and included, “You find the best in people during the worst of time.” The members expressed a desire to have her at a future in person meeting of the club.
As a result of another successful Run For The Roses, Ames Area Running Club and Iowa State’s Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority recently presented a check for $21,000 to the AOPI’s Philanthropy, the National Arthritis Foundation. The check presentation was done “virtually” with all AOPI members in attendance from their homes throughout Iowa and the United States. Run For the Roses has raised a total of $326,000 for Arthritis Research in the
past 33 years. Special thank you’s go to Morgan Cocagne and Lydia Frey, AOPI Philanthropy co-chairs for all their efforts to continue making Run For The Roses “An Ames Fall Tradition.” Pictured, the AOPI Virtual Zoom Gang, Check presenters from Left Don Muff, CoDirector, Eileen Muff, AOPI Philanthropy Advisor, and Roman Lynch, Co-Director. The 34th Annual Run For The Roses will be on Sunday, Oct. 4. Please mark your calendar.