Beckman Heritage Farms north of Burlington is celebrating 175 years this weekend. However,&nbsp; owner Doug Beckman said the farm is about a decade older than that.

The farm is so old, Beckman said, it technically has two first-time sales dates — the first from before Iowa was even a state.

“We have one barn on the property that we are positive was built before the Civil War,” Beckman said.

Doug and his wife purchased the farm from Doug’s grandparents in 2016. While Doug doesn’t make a full-time living from the farm (he works for BNSF Railway), the Beckmans grow corn and soybeans there.

“I grew up on the farm and helped my grandpa with all that. We worked side by side for many years,” Beckman said.&nbsp;

Not long ago, the Beckmans started growing pumpkins. That led to an annual fall festival that has grown exponentially over the past few years.

“We had over 1,000 people the first year,” Doug Beckman said.

The next iteration of the fall festival is set for this weekend, and more than 70 vendors will be on hand. So will the YouTube personality who goes by the name “The Farm Babe.”&nbsp;

She’s in town today and will be featured at the Saturday event.

“We are going to have a special program at 11 a.m. where she is going to talk a little bit, and she will touch on the advances of modern agriculture,” Doug said.

If you miss the Beckmans this weekend, there’s still time to enjoy the fall atmosphere at the farm before the year ends.

“We are going to stay open every weekend through Halloween. We put an 80-acre corn maze out there, a big bounce house,” he said.

The original 140-acre farm borders Flint Creek and is located along the Flint River Trail system.

The Beckmans live on a 240-acre neighboring property that connects to the original farm on its northern boundary. Over 30 acres of native prairie grass on the farm is part of the Conservation Reserve Program, and there are six acres of pollinating plants to support bees and butterflies.

The farm even features a trail system for visitors leading to a natural spring surrounded by limestone. That spring has slowly been hollowed out over the course of thousands of years.

“We call the farm our hobby. It seems like more work than a normal hobby,” Doug said.

The history of the farm extends well beyond the Beckmans. Alexis Phelps, one of the founders of Oquawka, Ill., sold the 160 acres to Maria Mathilde Beckman for $250.

Maria Beckman (also known as Mary) was born in Germany on Nov. 12, 1789, and emigrated to the United States in 1841 at 52 with her four children. About a year before Iowa was admitted to the Union as the 29th state, Beckman sold the 160-acre farm to Frederick Weidekind for $900.

The farm was briefly out of the Beckman family for a few years, but it didn’t take long to get it back. The bank foreclosed on the property while Weidekind owned it, and Mary Beckman bought it back at auction for $538.50 in 1848.

The farm stayed in the family after that. Though Maria Beckman was the head of the farm, she still wouldn’t have the right to vote in U.S. elections until 78 years later.

The history fascinates Doug — so much that he constructed a timeline on the farm’s website.

The farm’s legacy belongs to everyone who touched it — not just the Beckman family, Doug said.

“The farm and its history have always been important to me,” Doug said. “It’s just a legacy that’s ongoing, and we’re one little piece of that. We hope that we can build up on that and sustain it, take good care of the property, and make good sound decisions when it comes to conservation.”

Beckman Heritage Farms is hosting a Fall Market on Saturday (Sept. 23) and Sunday (Sept. 24) with 75 unique vendors and crafts, food, music, and family activities.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/9/1695404894813.jpeg" alt="Doug and Heather Beckman and their eleven-month-old daughter Vivian are shown on Wednesday, Sept. 20 at their 175-year-old family farm at 14572 N Prairie Grove Road in Burlington.&nbsp; Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Doug and Heather Beckman and their eleven-month-old daughter Vivian are shown on Wednesday, Sept. 20 at their 175-year-old family farm at 14572 N Prairie Grove Road in Burlington.&nbsp; Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By William SmithBeckman Heritage Farms north of Burlington is celebrating 175 years this weekend. However,&nbsp; owner Doug Beckman said the farm is about a decade older than that.The farm is so old, Beckman said, it technically has two first-time sales dates — the first from before Iowa was even a state.“We have one barn on the property that we are positive was built before the Civil War,” Beckman said.Doug and his wife purchased the farm from Doug’s grandparents in 2016. While Doug doesn’t make a full-time living from the farm (he works for BNSF Railway), the Beckmans grow corn and soybeans there.“I grew up on the farm and helped my grandpa with all that. We worked side by side for many years,” Beckman said.&nbsp;Not long ago, the Beckmans started growing pumpkins. That led to an annual fall festival that has grown exponentially over the past few years.“We had over 1,000 people the first year,” Doug Beckman said.The next iteration of the fall festival is set for this weekend, and more than 70 vendors will be on hand. So will the YouTube personality who goes by the name “The Farm Babe.”&nbsp;She’s in town today and will be featured at the Saturday event.“We are going to have a special program at 11 a.m. where she is going to talk a little bit, and she will touch on the advances of modern agriculture,” Doug said.If you miss the Beckmans this weekend, there’s still time to enjoy the fall atmosphere at the farm before the year ends.“We are going to stay open every weekend through Halloween. We put an 80-acre corn maze out there, a big bounce house,” he said.The original 140-acre farm borders Flint Creek and is located along the Flint River Trail system.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/9/1695404997157.jpeg" alt="Pumpkins and gourds outside a hay barn on George and Heather Beckman's 175-year-old family farm.&nbsp;Beckman Heritage Farms is hosting a Fall Market on Saturday (Sept. 23) and Sunday (Sept. 24) with 75 unique vendors and crafts, food, music, and family activities. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Pumpkins and gourds outside a hay barn on George and Heather Beckman's 175-year-old family farm.&nbsp;Beckman Heritage Farms is hosting a Fall Market on Saturday (Sept. 23) and Sunday (Sept. 24) with 75 unique vendors and crafts, food, music, and family activities. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>The Beckmans live on a 240-acre neighboring property that connects to the original farm on its northern boundary. Over 30 acres of native prairie grass on the farm is part of the Conservation Reserve Program, and there are six acres of pollinating plants to support bees and butterflies.The farm even features a trail system for visitors leading to a natural spring surrounded by limestone. That spring has slowly been hollowed out over the course of thousands of years.“We call the farm our hobby. It seems like more work than a normal hobby,” Doug said.The history of the farm extends well beyond the Beckmans. Alexis Phelps, one of the founders of Oquawka, Ill., sold the 160 acres to Maria Mathilde Beckman for $250.That was the first time she bought it.Maria Beckman (also known as Mary) was born in Germany on Nov. 12, 1789, and emigrated to the United States in 1841 at 52 with her four children. About a year before Iowa was admitted to the Union as the 29th state, Beckman sold the 160-acre farm to Frederick Weidekind for $900.The farm was briefly out of the Beckman family for a few years, but it didn’t take long to get it back. The bank foreclosed on the property while Weidekind owned it, and Mary Beckman bought it back at auction for $538.50 in 1848.The farm stayed in the family after that. Though Maria Beckman was the head of the farm, she still wouldn’t have the right to vote in U.S. elections until 78 years later.The history fascinates Doug — so much that he constructed a timeline on the farm’s website.The farm’s legacy belongs to everyone who touched it — not just the Beckman family, Doug said.“The farm and its history have always been important to me,” Doug said. “It’s just a legacy that’s ongoing, and we’re one little piece of that. We hope that we can build up on that and sustain it, take good care of the property, and make good sound decisions when it comes to conservation.”Beckman Heritage Farms is hosting a Fall Market on Saturday (Sept. 23) and Sunday (Sept. 24) with 75 unique vendors and crafts, food, music, and family activities.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/9/1695405091206.jpeg" alt="Doug and Heather Beckman and their eleven-month-old daughter Vivian. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Doug and Heather Beckman and their eleven-month-old daughter Vivian. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>

A legacy of family farming

Southeastern Community College and Great River Health have announced a partnership to launch a radiologic technology program. The 24-month program is scheduled to start in the fall of 2024.

Students will graduate with an associate of applied science degree, or AAS, in Radiologic Technology. They will take general classes at either of SCC’s West Burlington or Keokuk campuses. Coursework specific to the program will be offered at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington.

The curriculum includes anatomy and physiology, radiobiology, pathology, medical imaging, radiation physics, patient care procedures, and medical ethics.

Program enrollment will be capped at 20 students for each year of the two-year program for a total of 40 students.

“This is good for our institutions, our students, and our communities,” said SCC President Dr. Michael Ash.

In addition to housing the program classroom, simulation lab facilities, and staff offices, Great River Health will underwrite the cost of two faculty positions and offer a limited number of student sponsorships.

Ash said that if not for the partnership, the college wouldn’t be able to offer the program.

“The startup costs to purchase the equipment alone would be well over a million dollars,” explained Ash. “Not only are we able to reduce our costs to offer the program, students will train on the very same equipment used in hospitals today and be immersed in a working diagnostic imaging department environment.”

Students who successfully complete the program will be ready to enter occupations such as MRI technologist, sonographer, radiation therapist, radiologic technologist, and cardiovascular technologist. Graduates must pass a licensure test before they can begin their careers.

Job prospects for graduates are bright. The median salary for the region is $60,000 per year with a national projected job growth of 6% annually.

In addition to broader statistics, Greg Fields, vice president of diagnostic imaging for Great River Health says that it is becoming more difficult to maintain the current staff of over 100 employees in the department.  “Over the past few years, we’ve averaged anywhere from 8 to 10 openings each year, and that’s a trend we expect to continue.”

Students in their second year of the program will be eligible to be selected for sponsorship by Great River Health and receive a learning stipend. Sponsored students who successfully complete the program and secure licensure will be guaranteed an interview for employment at one of Great River Health’s locations throughout the region. Complete details will be released in the coming months.

Second-year SCC nursing student Emilia Sorrell said that sponsorship monies provided through the current nursing partnership have helped her focus on her coursework and not work quite as many hours.

“I work part-time and go to school full-time,” Sorrell said. “For me, the stipend is about two months’ rent. For some of my fellow students, it could be six months of utility bills they don’t have to worry about.”

Beyond providing benefits to SCC, Great River Health, and students, Dr. Ash explained how the partnerships benefit the region.

“Programs like this help us keep the people we have and even attract new people to the region,” said Ash. “That’s important because they buy houses, they buy groceries here, they participate in what’s happening in our communities.”

Great River Health President and CEO Dr. Michael McCoy is excited about the novelty of the program made possible by the partnership. “I’m looking forward to our first class of students coming next fall. It’s a very unique environment. If I were a student, I’d find this more appealing than any other program.”

Persons interested in the radiologic technology program can contact the SCC Admissions office at (319) 208-5155.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/9/1694442976653.jpeg" alt="Great River Health President and CEO Dr. Michael McCoy (left) and SCC President Dr. Michael Ash (right) ink a partnership for the Radiologic Technology Training Program. (Photo submitted)" />
 <figcaption>Great River Health President and CEO Dr. Michael McCoy (left) and SCC President Dr. Michael Ash (right) ink a partnership for the Radiologic Technology Training Program. (Photo submitted)</figcaption>
 </figure>Southeastern Community College and Great River Health have announced a partnership to launch a radiologic technology program. The 24-month program is scheduled to start in the fall of 2024.Students will graduate with an associate of applied science degree, or AAS, in Radiologic Technology. They will take general classes at either of SCC’s West Burlington or Keokuk campuses. Coursework specific to the program will be offered at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington.The curriculum includes anatomy and physiology, radiobiology, pathology, medical imaging, radiation physics, patient care procedures, and medical ethics.Program enrollment will be capped at 20 students for each year of the two-year program for a total of 40 students.“This is good for our institutions, our students, and our communities,” said SCC President Dr. Michael Ash.In addition to housing the program classroom, simulation lab facilities, and staff offices, Great River Health will underwrite the cost of two faculty positions and offer a limited number of student sponsorships.Ash said that if not for the partnership, the college wouldn’t be able to offer the program.“The startup costs to purchase the equipment alone would be well over a million dollars,” explained Ash. “Not only are we able to reduce our costs to offer the program, students will train on the very same equipment used in hospitals today and be immersed in a working diagnostic imaging department environment.”Students who successfully complete the program will be ready to enter occupations such as MRI technologist, sonographer, radiation therapist, radiologic technologist, and cardiovascular technologist. Graduates must pass a licensure test before they can begin their careers.Job prospects for graduates are bright. The median salary for the region is $60,000 per year with a national projected job growth of 6% annually.In addition to broader statistics, Greg Fields, vice president of diagnostic imaging for Great River Health says that it is becoming more difficult to maintain the current staff of over 100 employees in the department. “Over the past few years, we’ve averaged anywhere from 8 to 10 openings each year, and that’s a trend we expect to continue.”Students in their second year of the program will be eligible to be selected for sponsorship by Great River Health and receive a learning stipend. Sponsored students who successfully complete the program and secure licensure will be guaranteed an interview for employment at one of Great River Health’s locations throughout the region. Complete details will be released in the coming months.Second-year SCC nursing student Emilia Sorrell said that sponsorship monies provided through the current nursing partnership have helped her focus on her coursework and not work quite as many hours.“I work part-time and go to school full-time,” Sorrell said. “For me, the stipend is about two months’ rent. For some of my fellow students, it could be six months of utility bills they don’t have to worry about.”Beyond providing benefits to SCC, Great River Health, and students, Dr. Ash explained how the partnerships benefit the region.“Programs like this help us keep the people we have and even attract new people to the region,” said Ash. “That’s important because they buy houses, they buy groceries here, they participate in what’s happening in our communities.”Great River Health President and CEO Dr. Michael McCoy is excited about the novelty of the program made possible by the partnership. “I’m looking forward to our first class of students coming next fall. It’s a very unique environment. If I were a student, I’d find this more appealing than any other program.”Persons interested in the radiologic technology program can contact the SCC Admissions office at (319) 208-5155.

SCC, Great River Health ink partnership for radiologic technology training program

It seems like Mallory Kienast is always baking.

She learned the art from her grandmother and mother at a young age and never stopped. Kienast was the girl everyone looked to for treats — even when she was a youth in the 4-H club.

“People liked my cinnamon rolls and my creations, and I started baking competitively,” she said.

Then Kienast took things further, and a hobby became a side hustle. She was one of those high school kids who carried their own business cards.

“I made little business cards that said ‘Made by Mallory,’ ’’ she said. “My mom was a special needs associate at West Burlington School. So a lot of my sales were to other teachers in the breakroom.”&nbsp;

This Saturday, Kienast will be showing off her baking expertise at the World Food and Music Festival in Des Moines — for the second year. Her buttercream proved such a hit she was immediately invited back after last year’s festival.

“It’s a really great way to celebrate running my cottage bakery,” she said.

Kienast is a home baker right now, but she’s hoping that will change in the future. She’s working with the health department, so she can sell her “Made by Mallory” sweets in local stores. The macarons — featuring a proprietary recipe invented by Kienast — give the cookies a softer texture than most macaron cookies. It’s her signature dish.

“So your standard American buttercream, you know if it’s sitting out at a party or anything like that it kind of develops that little crust to it. I didn’t like that. It would always make me slide off the frosting because I want to bite into the softness. So I kind of worked to create my own buttercream recipe that does not crust so it maintains a really soft bite. So it’s really ideal for parties and events,” she said.

Kienast has created over 50 signature flavors by experimenting with ganache fillings. She even makes ganache cakes. To ensure her customers get to try all the flavors, Made by Mallory offers a monthly subscription for a multi-pack of different flavors.

“I also have a goal of getting a food truck and a long-term goal of getting a storefront. I would love to have a storefront bakery right along Jefferson Street,” she said.

Kienast never sought baking as a career path.&nbsp;

A Notre Dame High School graduate who started out in the Burlington School District, she took a short hiatus from baking while attending college at the University of Northern Iowa.

That hiatus didn’t last long. Kienast had already started her “Made by Mallory” brand before she graduated.

“I would sell at the farmers market in Cedar Falls,” she said.

Kienast majored in marketing and public relations and got into marketing work just before the pandemic hit.

“I worked with local small businesses,” she said.

The pandemic gave Kienast a chance to pursue her hobby as a career.&nbsp;

She and her husband have three boys between the ages of 1 and 5, so she knew it had to be a financial success.

It’s been far more than that. Her oldest boys are helping out in the kitchen, baking alongside her. It’s everything she hoped for.

“They keep me busy baking,” she said with a laugh.

Kienast enjoys the physical act of baking but likes to look beyond her oven into the bigger picture.&nbsp;

She’s proud to sell a quality product of her own design. But she’s even more delighted to see that product that can bring joy to those around her.

One of Burlington’s favorite bakers, the retired Martha Wolf, shares that sentiment. Before Martha retired, she shared a word with Kienast as Kienast dined at the Ivy Bake Shoppe with a friend.

“We were just being present in the moment of enjoying good food together, and we weren’t on our phones at all. Martha came out to say that she really noticed that and how much that touched her,” Kienast said.

Kienast still gets goosebumps telling the story. That conversation congealed her determination and desire.

“That’s totally something I want to create for people — a time that they can just really be present with each other. And I think it’s so much more important today because we have 1,000 things to distract us,” Kienast said.

To find out more about Made by Mallory and her subscription service, visit the “Made by Mallory” page on Facebook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/9/1693852283284.jpeg" alt="Mallory Kienast, owner of Made By Mallory Bakery, takes a break from using a palette knife to sculpt flowers out of ganache on a buttercream base while decorating a cake in her home on Tuesday, Aug. 22 in West Burlington. Mallory offers custom-order cakes, cupcakes, macarons, and more. For more photos, visit our Facebook page or burlingtonbeacon.com. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Mallory Kienast, owner of Made By Mallory Bakery, takes a break from using a palette knife to sculpt flowers out of ganache on a buttercream base while decorating a cake in her home on Tuesday, Aug. 22 in West Burlington. Mallory offers custom-order cakes, cupcakes, macarons, and more. For more photos, visit our Facebook page or burlingtonbeacon.com. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By William SmithIt seems like Mallory Kienast is always baking.She learned the art from her grandmother and mother at a young age and never stopped. Kienast was the girl everyone looked to for treats — even when she was a youth in the 4-H club.“People liked my cinnamon rolls and my creations, and I started baking competitively,” she said.Then Kienast took things further, and a hobby became a side hustle. She was one of those high school kids who carried their own business cards.“I made little business cards that said ‘Made by Mallory,’ ’’ she said. “My mom was a special needs associate at West Burlington School. So a lot of my sales were to other teachers in the breakroom.”&nbsp;This Saturday, Kienast will be showing off her baking expertise at the World Food and Music Festival in Des Moines — for the second year. Her buttercream proved such a hit she was immediately invited back after last year’s festival.“It’s a really great way to celebrate running my cottage bakery,” she said.Kienast is a home baker right now, but she’s hoping that will change in the future. She’s working with the health department, so she can sell her “Made by Mallory” sweets in local stores. The macarons — featuring a proprietary recipe invented by Kienast — give the cookies a softer texture than most macaron cookies. It’s her signature dish.“So your standard American buttercream, you know if it’s sitting out at a party or anything like that it kind of develops that little crust to it. I didn’t like that. It would always make me slide off the frosting because I want to bite into the softness. So I kind of worked to create my own buttercream recipe that does not crust so it maintains a really soft bite. So it’s really ideal for parties and events,” she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/9/1693852423427.jpeg" alt="Mallory Kienast, owner of Made By Mallory Bakery, assembles cookie and cream macarons. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Mallory Kienast, owner of Made By Mallory Bakery, assembles cookie and cream macarons. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>Kienast has created over 50 signature flavors by experimenting with ganache fillings. She even makes ganache cakes. To ensure her customers get to try all the flavors, Made by Mallory offers a monthly subscription for a multi-pack of different flavors.“I also have a goal of getting a food truck and a long-term goal of getting a storefront. I would love to have a storefront bakery right along Jefferson Street,” she said.Kienast never sought baking as a career path.&nbsp;A Notre Dame High School graduate who started out in the Burlington School District, she took a short hiatus from baking while attending college at the University of Northern Iowa.That hiatus didn’t last long. Kienast had already started her “Made by Mallory” brand before she graduated.“I would sell at the farmers market in Cedar Falls,” she said.Kienast majored in marketing and public relations and got into marketing work just before the pandemic hit.“I worked with local small businesses,” she said.The pandemic gave Kienast a chance to pursue her hobby as a career.&nbsp;She and her husband have three boys between the ages of 1 and 5, so she knew it had to be a financial success.It’s been far more than that. Her oldest boys are helping out in the kitchen, baking alongside her. It’s everything she hoped for.“They keep me busy baking,” she said with a laugh.Kienast enjoys the physical act of baking but likes to look beyond her oven into the bigger picture.&nbsp;She’s proud to sell a quality product of her own design. But she’s even more delighted to see that product that can bring joy to those around her.One of Burlington’s favorite bakers, the retired Martha Wolf, shares that sentiment. Before Martha retired, she shared a word with Kienast as Kienast dined at the Ivy Bake Shoppe with a friend.“We were just being present in the moment of enjoying good food together, and we weren’t on our phones at all. Martha came out to say that she really noticed that and how much that touched her,” Kienast said.Kienast still gets goosebumps telling the story. That conversation congealed her determination and desire.“That’s totally something I want to create for people — a time that they can just really be present with each other. And I think it’s so much more important today because we have 1,000 things to distract us,” Kienast said.To find out more about Made by Mallory and her subscription service, visit the “Made by Mallory” page on Facebook.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/9/1693852501091.jpeg" alt="Mallory Kienast, owner of Made By Mallory Bakery, uses a palette knife to sculpt flowers out of ganache on a buttercream base while decorating a cake. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Mallory Kienast, owner of Made By Mallory Bakery, uses a palette knife to sculpt flowers out of ganache on a buttercream base while decorating a cake. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>

Kienast bakes up a tasty business

I had no idea what I was walking into as I stepped aboard the giant Corps of Engineers boat docked in front of Memorial Auditorium last Tuesday.&nbsp;

All I knew was what I read in the paper. The vessel Mississippi was going to be in town, and the Mississippi River Commission was taking public input.&nbsp;

Thank God it was a Tuesday, my weekly formal meeting day for which I don khakis and a clean collared shirt. Even then, I was underdressed among the suits and full-on military regalia.

“Are you on the list?” someone asked as I walked up to the registration table. List? Nobody said anything about a list. No problem. They had registration cards for that.&nbsp;

“Are you giving testimony?” was the next question. Testimony? Clearly, this was not the run-of-the-mill town hall public input session I thought it’d be. They didn’t even have coffee.&nbsp;

“Um, I guess I’m not fully informed on what exactly this is.”&nbsp;

That was about all I could come up with. They explained that so-and-so had just given opening remarks, followed by another so-and-so with an important sounding title having just opened the hearing so now they’re taking testimony from the public.&nbsp;

“So anybody can come here and share their thoughts about the river?” I asked, to which I got a less-than-emphatic yes.&nbsp;

I was led up to this very formal conference room where, as luck would have it, there was an empty seat next to Burlington City Manager Chad Bird. At least I knew someone in the crowd. I quietly took the seat, and we exchanged nods. I listened as someone presented about levee issues, complete with a PowerPoint slideshow, to five very formal-looking people seated in front. The Commission, I presumed.

One break and half a dozen presenters later, I heard, “Mr. Chris Lee” over the intercom. How formal. I stood and puffed my chest like I imagined someone called “mister” should. I had jotted some notes, so I didn’t sound like I was completely winging it. Or so I hoped.&nbsp;

“Hello Commission members. Thank you for allowing us to speak…” I led in homage to the formality. Then I proceeded to lay out the two issues that I’ve discussed repeatedly in this column and on my blog over the years.&nbsp;

One, our river has a sediment issue. I told them that every time it floods, the parking areas at my department’s boat ramps get buried in silt. And in the 15 years, I’ve been with this department, we’ve had at least four flood events where FEMA has paid for damages. I have no idea how much money that amounts to across the state or the watershed, but it’s got to be near-astronomical.&nbsp;

Two, while the earlier presenters discussed record-setting high-water events a la 1993 and 2008, what I don’t hear anyone discussing is the amount of time the water gets somewhat above flood stage and stays there, thus wrecking both the recreation value and ecology of our river. Extended periods of high water have devastated the bottomland forests on many islands and backwater areas. Nearby examples include the area just north of the Mississippi-Skunk River confluence and Lake Odessa in Louisa County. These areas have hundreds of acres of what used to be maple and cottonwood forests now looking like the Everglades scattered with dead and decaying trees.

And near as I can tell, nobody is paying any attention. I can’t begin to quantify the extent of the ecological impact, but it must be enormous.&nbsp;

To me, this is a transportation and commerce issue as much as a conservation issue. Thus the Corps of Engineers should care. And the solution, in my mind at least, is to deal with the water and sediment well before it reaches the Mississippi in the first place. In other words, apply conservation up in the watershed so that the water stays where it falls a bit longer and then has a chance to shed the sediment before reaching the tributaries that carry it to the Mississippi.&nbsp;

I noted that the federal Farm Bill is being rewritten this year. It has more power to implement the necessary conservation practices than any other legislation. My recommendation is to work with the other federal agencies involved in Farm Bill programs rather than each agency working in its own silos.

No, it’s not a silver bullet. Nothing is. But imagine if the Corps could work with the Department of Agriculture to focus on slowing the rate at which water reaches the Mississippi and keeping the sediment on the farm fields from which it comes. Done on a broad enough scale, maybe we wouldn’t need taller levees or as much dredging.&nbsp;

Such was my testimony to the Mississippi River Commission and Corps of Engineers. I have no idea if anything will come from it. I’d expect not. It’s been my experience that getting the government to adopt a long-term view and cooperate across agencies is akin to swimming north in front of Burlington. But as the Lorax knows, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”

And I’m happy to testify to that.&nbsp;

Chris Lee is the Executive Director at Des Moines County Conservation. He also writes podcasts about parks and natural resources at www.outdoorexecutivedad.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/9/1693851606607.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Chris Lee&nbsp;I had no idea what I was walking into as I stepped aboard the giant Corps of Engineers boat docked in front of Memorial Auditorium last Tuesday.&nbsp;All I knew was what I read in the paper. The vessel Mississippi was going to be in town, and the Mississippi River Commission was taking public input.&nbsp;Thank God it was a Tuesday, my weekly formal meeting day for which I don khakis and a clean collared shirt. Even then, I was underdressed among the suits and full-on military regalia.“Are you on the list?” someone asked as I walked up to the registration table. List? Nobody said anything about a list. No problem. They had registration cards for that.&nbsp;“Are you giving testimony?” was the next question. Testimony? Clearly, this was not the run-of-the-mill town hall public input session I thought it’d be. They didn’t even have coffee.&nbsp;“Um, I guess I’m not fully informed on what exactly this is.”&nbsp;That was about all I could come up with. They explained that so-and-so had just given opening remarks, followed by another so-and-so with an important sounding title having just opened the hearing so now they’re taking testimony from the public.&nbsp;“So anybody can come here and share their thoughts about the river?” I asked, to which I got a less-than-emphatic yes.&nbsp;Sweet. Sign me up.&nbsp;I was led up to this very formal conference room where, as luck would have it, there was an empty seat next to Burlington City Manager Chad Bird. At least I knew someone in the crowd. I quietly took the seat, and we exchanged nods. I listened as someone presented about levee issues, complete with a PowerPoint slideshow, to five very formal-looking people seated in front. The Commission, I presumed.One break and half a dozen presenters later, I heard, “Mr. Chris Lee” over the intercom. How formal. I stood and puffed my chest like I imagined someone called “mister” should. I had jotted some notes, so I didn’t sound like I was completely winging it. Or so I hoped.&nbsp;“Hello Commission members. Thank you for allowing us to speak…” I led in homage to the formality. Then I proceeded to lay out the two issues that I’ve discussed repeatedly in this column and on my blog over the years.&nbsp;One, our river has a sediment issue. I told them that every time it floods, the parking areas at my department’s boat ramps get buried in silt. And in the 15 years, I’ve been with this department, we’ve had at least four flood events where FEMA has paid for damages. I have no idea how much money that amounts to across the state or the watershed, but it’s got to be near-astronomical.&nbsp;Two, while the earlier presenters discussed record-setting high-water events a la 1993 and 2008, what I don’t hear anyone discussing is the amount of time the water gets somewhat above flood stage and stays there, thus wrecking both the recreation value and ecology of our river. Extended periods of high water have devastated the bottomland forests on many islands and backwater areas. Nearby examples include the area just north of the Mississippi-Skunk River confluence and Lake Odessa in Louisa County. These areas have hundreds of acres of what used to be maple and cottonwood forests now looking like the Everglades scattered with dead and decaying trees.And near as I can tell, nobody is paying any attention. I can’t begin to quantify the extent of the ecological impact, but it must be enormous.&nbsp;To me, this is a transportation and commerce issue as much as a conservation issue. Thus the Corps of Engineers should care. And the solution, in my mind at least, is to deal with the water and sediment well before it reaches the Mississippi in the first place. In other words, apply conservation up in the watershed so that the water stays where it falls a bit longer and then has a chance to shed the sediment before reaching the tributaries that carry it to the Mississippi.&nbsp;I noted that the federal Farm Bill is being rewritten this year. It has more power to implement the necessary conservation practices than any other legislation. My recommendation is to work with the other federal agencies involved in Farm Bill programs rather than each agency working in its own silos.No, it’s not a silver bullet. Nothing is. But imagine if the Corps could work with the Department of Agriculture to focus on slowing the rate at which water reaches the Mississippi and keeping the sediment on the farm fields from which it comes. Done on a broad enough scale, maybe we wouldn’t need taller levees or as much dredging.&nbsp;Such was my testimony to the Mississippi River Commission and Corps of Engineers. I have no idea if anything will come from it. I’d expect not. It’s been my experience that getting the government to adopt a long-term view and cooperate across agencies is akin to swimming north in front of Burlington. But as the Lorax knows, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”And I’m happy to testify to that.&nbsp;Chris Lee is the Executive Director at Des Moines County Conservation. He also writes podcasts about parks and natural resources at www.outdoorexecutivedad.com.

I speak for the trees — and the river that is killing them

Chris Faulkner The Burlington Beacon

What once was the home of Sunday editions will now be the home of Sunday services.

Crossroads Community Church finally has its own building, and the first public worship gathering will be this Sunday, Sept. 3 at 10 a.m.

But instead of being on a four-acre lot at the corner of Agency and Curran Streets, as was the original plan, it will be at 800 S. Main St., in the former home of the Hawk Eye newspaper.

Crossroads was founded in November 2007 as a church plant of the North American Baptist Conference but is now non-denominational. The members met at several locations through the years, starting with the Howard Johnson Banquet Room and ending with the Peterson Building at 315 Jefferson St.

“We enjoyed renting because it is low overhead,” Pastor Jason Unzicker said. “But we got to the point with our size that all the places for rentals were either large, open spaces that could be used for a sanctuary and then no office space for children’s ministries, or vice versa, maybe all office space but no open space.”

In 2014, the congregation purchased a four-acre plot of land on the corner of Agency and Curran Streets to erect their own church building, and the church began setting aside its annual surplus giving into a building fund.

“God was really watching after us on that,” Unzicker said. “We got to the point where we were ready with the design and everything was ready to pull permits and go. But right then, COVID hit, and everything shut down.”

A year later, the church talked to the general contractor. With a large increase in construction costs, it was deemed not prudent to build.

“For that amount of money to build, we thought we could probably buy something and renovate it,” Unzicker said.

That’s when the former Hawk Eye building came up for sale. 

“We looked at it, and it seemed like God was opening up that door,” Unzicker said.

In 2022, the church was able to sell the property they owned at Agency and Curran Streets when Des Moines County placed the winning bid. Providentially, their bid was the exact amount needed for the church to buy the Hawk Eye building.

Renovations began immediately, Unzicker said, and the church used Specter Build as the contractor.

Everything but the press room and a garage was gutted. 

The large area that was the home of editors, reporters, ad staff, and other newspaper personnel became a church sanctuary on one side with a fellowship center complete with a kitchen on the other side.

The pastor has his own office, and several rooms were made for children’s ministries and Sunday School classes.

Unzicker said they couldn’t get any takers on the printing press.

“We would have really had to cut the garage door and drag (the press) out for people willing to scrap it, but we couldn’t find a buyer for it. So we’re just going to take it down piece by piece,” he said.

The church started with about 70 parishioners and has seen between 70 and 120 at the services over the years, Unzicker said.

As for the overall financing of the project, Unzicker said, “We felt like God didn’t lead us to do any capital campaigns or ask for any pledges. We felt like God will provide everything to do it if we just tithe, and our people are faithful tithers.”

Unzicker said in the last couple of months, they had to take out a small loan. But they’re trusting God to provide the finances for that debt.

After the first week, the services can also be viewed on the Crossroads Community Church Facebook page or online at <a href="https://crossroadsburlington.com/">crossroadsburlington.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/9/1693703484160.jpeg" alt="Pastor Jason Unzicker stands at the entryway to the sanctuary of Crossroads Community Church at 800 S. Main St., Burlington. (Chris Faulkner/The Burlington Beacon)" />
 <figcaption>Pastor Jason Unzicker stands at the entryway to the sanctuary of Crossroads Community Church at 800 S. Main St., Burlington. (Chris Faulkner/The Burlington Beacon)</figcaption>
 </figure>Chris Faulkner The Burlington BeaconWhat once was the home of Sunday editions will now be the home of Sunday services.Crossroads Community Church finally has its own building, and the first public worship gathering will be this Sunday, Sept. 3 at 10 a.m.But instead of being on a four-acre lot at the corner of Agency and Curran Streets, as was the original plan, it will be at 800 S. Main St., in the former home of the Hawk Eye newspaper.Crossroads was founded in November 2007 as a church plant of the North American Baptist Conference but is now non-denominational. The members met at several locations through the years, starting with the Howard Johnson Banquet Room and ending with the Peterson Building at 315 Jefferson St.“We enjoyed renting because it is low overhead,” Pastor Jason Unzicker said. “But we got to the point with our size that all the places for rentals were either large, open spaces that could be used for a sanctuary and then no office space for children’s ministries, or vice versa, maybe all office space but no open space.”In 2014, the congregation purchased a four-acre plot of land on the corner of Agency and Curran Streets to erect their own church building, and the church began setting aside its annual surplus giving into a building fund.“God was really watching after us on that,” Unzicker said. “We got to the point where we were ready with the design and everything was ready to pull permits and go. But right then, COVID hit, and everything shut down.”A year later, the church talked to the general contractor. With a large increase in construction costs, it was deemed not prudent to build.“For that amount of money to build, we thought we could probably buy something and renovate it,” Unzicker said.That’s when the former Hawk Eye building came up for sale. “We looked at it, and it seemed like God was opening up that door,” Unzicker said.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/9/1693703658413.jpeg" alt="The Hawk Eye newspaper office was formerly located in the building at 800 S. Main St., Burlington. The space shown is now the site of a church sanctuary and fellowship center." />
 <figcaption>The Hawk Eye newspaper office was formerly located in the building at 800 S. Main St., Burlington. The space shown is now the site of a church sanctuary and fellowship center.</figcaption>
 </figure>In 2022, the church was able to sell the property they owned at Agency and Curran Streets when Des Moines County placed the winning bid. Providentially, their bid was the exact amount needed for the church to buy the Hawk Eye building.Renovations began immediately, Unzicker said, and the church used Specter Build as the contractor.Everything but the press room and a garage was gutted. The large area that was the home of editors, reporters, ad staff, and other newspaper personnel became a church sanctuary on one side with a fellowship center complete with a kitchen on the other side.The pastor has his own office, and several rooms were made for children’s ministries and Sunday School classes.Unzicker said they couldn’t get any takers on the printing press.“We would have really had to cut the garage door and drag (the press) out for people willing to scrap it, but we couldn’t find a buyer for it. So we’re just going to take it down piece by piece,” he said.The church started with about 70 parishioners and has seen between 70 and 120 at the services over the years, Unzicker said.As for the overall financing of the project, Unzicker said, “We felt like God didn’t lead us to do any capital campaigns or ask for any pledges. We felt like God will provide everything to do it if we just tithe, and our people are faithful tithers.”Unzicker said in the last couple of months, they had to take out a small loan. But they’re trusting God to provide the finances for that debt.After the first week, the services can also be viewed on the Crossroads Community Church Facebook page or online at <a href="https://crossroadsburlington.com/">crossroadsburlington.com</a>.

From Papers to Prayers

By Chris Faulkner Burlington Beacon

Former Vice President Mike Pence came to Fort Madison Thursday night (Aug. 31) for a town hall meeting at the Kingsley Inn. The Republican from Indiana made his case for returning to the White House, this time as the president.

“I'm running for president because I think this country is in a lot of trouble,” Pence said. “Frankly, Joe Biden has weakened this country at home and abroad.”

In terms of the economy, Pence stated that inflation is up by 16.6 percent and mortgage rates are up to a 22-year high.

Pence said he met with a group of pastors in Burlington earlier in the day who told him the requests at local food banks were up 30 percent.

"I hear that everywhere I go,” he said. “Families are hurting.”

He criticized President Biden's border policies, saying they “have let millions of people come across our border, not to mention the flow of Fentanyl that's claiming lives in every community in the country.”

He touted the achievements made by the Trump/Pence administration.

“In our four short years, we've rebuilt our military, we've revived our economy, we achieved energy independence for the first time in 75 years, we reduced illegal immigration at the southern border of the United States by 90 percent,” he said.

“In the midst of it all, we appointed three conservatives to the Supreme Court.”

He then opened the floor up for questions from the audience, with about 50 to 60 in attendance.

One attendee asked how Pence would balance the country's partnerships and alliances around the world with funding, while still providing for the needs of the citizens in this country.

Pence said that part of the solution is to have a balanced federal budget. “Fiscal solvency is the foundation of our prosperity and our security in the long term,” Pence said.

“We've got to be willing to talk about the principal drivers in federal spending today, which are entitlements.”

He said that 70 percent of our budget is Social Security and Medicare.

But, he said, “Let me be real clear: If you're in retirement today, or if you're going to retire in the next 25 years, we're going to keep all the promises we make,” Pence said.

“I'm not somebody who believes in changing horses in the middle of the stream, so I tell people if you're 40 years or older, we'll keep you in the same program we've always promised.”

But, he said, “To put our country back on fiscal integrity, I really believe we've got to say to Americans under the age of 40, we need to have a conversation of how we reform these New Deal programs, and Social Security in particular, and give you a better deal.”

He quoted the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 10 years ago as saying, "The national debt is the greatest threat to American national security."

“In the next year or so, we're going to spend as much interest on the national debt as we do on national defense,” Pence said.

A balanced budget will allow the U.S. to provide “the resources that we need to stand up to our enemies and stand with our allies,” he said. He also said he will make sure the country's allies will pay their fair share.

Another attendee asked Pence for his stand on biofuels and private property rights.

“I'm a great champion of personal property rights, the right of contract,” Pence said. “I'm incredibly proud of what we did when we got rid of the waters of the USA regulation." 

Pence was challenged on his answer, and provided the following response: “We didn't kill it, but I promise you it will be gone, it will all be gone in the next Republican administration.”

“I'm an all-of-the-above energy guy,” Pence said regarding biofuels. “I come from Indiana, and I'm incredibly proud of biofuels and ethanol. I've seen incredible contributions to what they make. I was for ethanol before it was cool.”

When asked what his position was on wind and solar, Pence repeated his “all-of-the-above” stance. But the person responded that “big oil companies have been your favorite one.”

Pence said, “I'm for natural gas, I'm nuclear, I'm wind, I'm solar, I'm renewables. I'm all that. What I'm not is a Green New Deal guy. I'm not interested in using the power of the government and government mandates and subsidies that mostly go to China for batteries to force the American people into either electric vehicles or force the American people into fossil fuels.”

Another man said that President Trump “had the idea that we could invalidate an election. Where did that come from? Is there anything in the U.S. Constitution that supports that?”

“The short answer is no, definitively no,” Pence said.

He said somewhere in December of 2020, “there began to appear a theory, then propagated by some lawyers who came in and advised the president that I had some right to reject or return electoral votes. No vice president in history would have ever asserted that, and no one ever should.”

He said he understood the disappointment of the 2020 election. He punctuated his defense for certifying the electoral college votes with a quote from the Bible: "He keeps his oath even though it hurts."

Pence said, “I believe that I am the best qualified, the best prepared, and the most tested conservative, and I will be ready Day One to turn this country around.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/9/1693695078138.jpeg" alt="Among the 50-60 people who showed up to see former Vice President Mike Pence speak at the Kingsley Inn in Fort Madison was 96-year-old Bill Mullans. When Pence learned he was a World II veteran, he handed Mullans a Challenge medal, which are historically presented by unit commanders in special recognition of an achievement. (Chris Faulkner/The Burlington Beacon)" />
 <figcaption>Among the 50-60 people who showed up to see former Vice President Mike Pence speak at the Kingsley Inn in Fort Madison was 96-year-old Bill Mullans. When Pence learned he was a World II veteran, he handed Mullans a Challenge medal, which are historically presented by unit commanders in special recognition of an achievement. (Chris Faulkner/The Burlington Beacon)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Chris Faulkner Burlington BeaconFormer Vice President Mike Pence came to Fort Madison Thursday night (Aug. 31) for a town hall meeting at the Kingsley Inn. The Republican from Indiana made his case for returning to the White House, this time as the president.“I'm running for president because I think this country is in a lot of trouble,” Pence said. “Frankly, Joe Biden has weakened this country at home and abroad.”In terms of the economy, Pence stated that inflation is up by 16.6 percent and mortgage rates are up to a 22-year high.Pence said he met with a group of pastors in Burlington earlier in the day who told him the requests at local food banks were up 30 percent."I hear that everywhere I go,” he said. “Families are hurting.”He criticized President Biden's border policies, saying they “have let millions of people come across our border, not to mention the flow of Fentanyl that's claiming lives in every community in the country.”He touted the achievements made by the Trump/Pence administration.“In our four short years, we've rebuilt our military, we've revived our economy, we achieved energy independence for the first time in 75 years, we reduced illegal immigration at the southern border of the United States by 90 percent,” he said.“In the midst of it all, we appointed three conservatives to the Supreme Court.”He then opened the floor up for questions from the audience, with about 50 to 60 in attendance.One attendee asked how Pence would balance the country's partnerships and alliances around the world with funding, while still providing for the needs of the citizens in this country.Pence said that part of the solution is to have a balanced federal budget. “Fiscal solvency is the foundation of our prosperity and our security in the long term,” Pence said.“We've got to be willing to talk about the principal drivers in federal spending today, which are entitlements.”He said that 70 percent of our budget is Social Security and Medicare.But, he said, “Let me be real clear: If you're in retirement today, or if you're going to retire in the next 25 years, we're going to keep all the promises we make,” Pence said.“I'm not somebody who believes in changing horses in the middle of the stream, so I tell people if you're 40 years or older, we'll keep you in the same program we've always promised.”But, he said, “To put our country back on fiscal integrity, I really believe we've got to say to Americans under the age of 40, we need to have a conversation of how we reform these New Deal programs, and Social Security in particular, and give you a better deal.”He quoted the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 10 years ago as saying, "The national debt is the greatest threat to American national security."“In the next year or so, we're going to spend as much interest on the national debt as we do on national defense,” Pence said.A balanced budget will allow the U.S. to provide “the resources that we need to stand up to our enemies and stand with our allies,” he said. He also said he will make sure the country's allies will pay their fair share.Another attendee asked Pence for his stand on biofuels and private property rights.“I'm a great champion of personal property rights, the right of contract,” Pence said. “I'm incredibly proud of what we did when we got rid of the waters of the USA regulation." Pence was challenged on his answer, and provided the following response: “We didn't kill it, but I promise you it will be gone, it will all be gone in the next Republican administration.”“I'm an all-of-the-above energy guy,” Pence said regarding biofuels. “I come from Indiana, and I'm incredibly proud of biofuels and ethanol. I've seen incredible contributions to what they make. I was for ethanol before it was cool.”When asked what his position was on wind and solar, Pence repeated his “all-of-the-above” stance. But the person responded that “big oil companies have been your favorite one.”Pence said, “I'm for natural gas, I'm nuclear, I'm wind, I'm solar, I'm renewables. I'm all that. What I'm not is a Green New Deal guy. I'm not interested in using the power of the government and government mandates and subsidies that mostly go to China for batteries to force the American people into either electric vehicles or force the American people into fossil fuels.”Another man said that President Trump “had the idea that we could invalidate an election. Where did that come from? Is there anything in the U.S. Constitution that supports that?”“The short answer is no, definitively no,” Pence said.He said somewhere in December of 2020, “there began to appear a theory, then propagated by some lawyers who came in and advised the president that I had some right to reject or return electoral votes. No vice president in history would have ever asserted that, and no one ever should.”He said he understood the disappointment of the 2020 election. He punctuated his defense for certifying the electoral college votes with a quote from the Bible: "He keeps his oath even though it hurts."Pence said, “I believe that I am the best qualified, the best prepared, and the most tested conservative, and I will be ready Day One to turn this country around.”

Pence makes his case in Fort Madison

By William Smith Community Editor

Karla Mundt never intended to be one of the more recognizable faces in Burlington. It just happened that way. 

Karla loves life — and she loves art. She sees both in every nook and cranny of the city that helped raise her.

“Art is everywhere around here!” she said during an interview with The Beacon, lifting her hands into the air.

Despite her bachelor of fine arts degree from the University of Iowa, Mundt was uninterested in teaching. She loves art, though, and Karla always follows her inspiration.

“I’m not as patient as some of my friends at art school,” she said with a laugh. “Everywhere they go, they have a sketchbook and they’re drawing. For me, it’s like, ‘When I get an assignment, I’ll draw.’”

Karla wasn’t concerned about making a living off her art. She just followed her muse, which landed her a part-time teaching position at the Arts For Living Center on Washington Street. It later became the Art Center of Burlington on Jefferson Street.

“You know, I really fell into that accidentally. One of my friends was teaching a class at the Art Center, and he couldn’t come. And they’re always looking for teachers,” Karla said.

Karla filled-in. When the class was over, she was asked to stay. Her skill and creativity were evident.

“I thought, well, I could do that. So I did, you know, and I had the time to do it,” she said.

Karla still teaches at the Art Center today — everything from watercolors to pottery. She is a cheerleader for unlocking the creative potential of young minds.

“I just want to stick with my kids’ class most of the time, and once a month, do an adult class,” she said. “It’s amazing. Some of the kids will just do the most amazing things with clay.”

Karla has never pigeonholed herself as only an artist. Her life experiences go far beyond that.

“I got married. I was in Canada for two-and-a-half years. I worked at a domestic violence shelter,” she said.

Karla and her husband have two adult children who still live in Iowa, and she never misses a chance to hike. Nature is just as much a refugee as her paintbrush.

Somehow, seemingly by accident, Mundt found herself at the heart of the community. She got involved in downtown committees and volunteer organizations, planting flowers along Jefferson Street. Karla said she got involved to support her brother Bill Mundt, owner of Mundt’s Piano and Organ.

She started designing intricate table displays for the former Des Moines County Historical Society fundraiser — Desserts By Design — because it stirred her creatively.

She organized an annual Earth Day art project for children due to her passion for recycling and protecting the earth. Karla seamlessly created art from trash the children picked up during the Keep Burlington Beautiful Earth Day clean-up.

“You just take a couple of things and slap them together,” Karla said, downplaying her role.

Ever self-effacing, Karla argues her contributions to Burlington are derived from selfish motivations. But then she betrays that sentiment by showing love to the city she continually champions.

Karla recently volunteered to help put up the new wheat paste mural at the Burlington Public Library — an eight-hour project. And she did her best to avoid every camera at the event.

“I would be just as happy reading a book all day,” she said.

Karla lost her mom last year. Now she is in the phase of her life where it’s time to let go of her mother’s possessions.

“That’s my big future project. I need to declutter,” she said. “It’s time to get rid of the stuff I don’t need or use.”

After that, Karla would like to travel more. She and her husband have been on an informal conquest of Iowa’s 60 state parks — not counting preserves and recreational areas.

They’ve visited about 30 of those parks already. As usual, Karla’s latest inspiration was triggered by chance.

“I was just going through some old magazines to throw out, and the ‘Iowa Outdoor Magazine’ had an article several years ago about a woman who visited every state park. And I was like, I could do that,” Karla said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/8/1693160553649.jpeg" alt="Artist Karla Mundt on Tuesday, Aug. 15 at the Art Center of Burlington. Mundt has been teaching at the center for more than 30 years. (John Lovretta/The Burlington Beacon)" />
 <figcaption>Artist Karla Mundt on Tuesday, Aug. 15 at the Art Center of Burlington. Mundt has been teaching at the center for more than 30 years. (John Lovretta/The Burlington Beacon)</figcaption>
 </figure>By William Smith Community EditorKarla Mundt never intended to be one of the more recognizable faces in Burlington. It just happened that way. Karla loves life — and she loves art. She sees both in every nook and cranny of the city that helped raise her.“Art is everywhere around here!” she said during an interview with The Beacon, lifting her hands into the air.Despite her bachelor of fine arts degree from the University of Iowa, Mundt was uninterested in teaching. She loves art, though, and Karla always follows her inspiration.“I’m not as patient as some of my friends at art school,” she said with a laugh. “Everywhere they go, they have a sketchbook and they’re drawing. For me, it’s like, ‘When I get an assignment, I’ll draw.’”Karla wasn’t concerned about making a living off her art. She just followed her muse, which landed her a part-time teaching position at the Arts For Living Center on Washington Street. It later became the Art Center of Burlington on Jefferson Street.“You know, I really fell into that accidentally. One of my friends was teaching a class at the Art Center, and he couldn’t come. And they’re always looking for teachers,” Karla said.Karla filled-in. When the class was over, she was asked to stay. Her skill and creativity were evident.“I thought, well, I could do that. So I did, you know, and I had the time to do it,” she said.Karla still teaches at the Art Center today — everything from watercolors to pottery. She is a cheerleader for unlocking the creative potential of young minds.“I just want to stick with my kids’ class most of the time, and once a month, do an adult class,” she said. “It’s amazing. Some of the kids will just do the most amazing things with clay.”More than an artistKarla has never pigeonholed herself as only an artist. Her life experiences go far beyond that.“I got married. I was in Canada for two-and-a-half years. I worked at a domestic violence shelter,” she said.Karla and her husband have two adult children who still live in Iowa, and she never misses a chance to hike. Nature is just as much a refugee as her paintbrush.Fostering creativitySomehow, seemingly by accident, Mundt found herself at the heart of the community. She got involved in downtown committees and volunteer organizations, planting flowers along Jefferson Street. Karla said she got involved to support her brother Bill Mundt, owner of Mundt’s Piano and Organ.She started designing intricate table displays for the former Des Moines County Historical Society fundraiser — Desserts By Design — because it stirred her creatively.She organized an annual Earth Day art project for children due to her passion for recycling and protecting the earth. Karla seamlessly created art from trash the children picked up during the Keep Burlington Beautiful Earth Day clean-up.“You just take a couple of things and slap them together,” Karla said, downplaying her role.Ever self-effacing, Karla argues her contributions to Burlington are derived from selfish motivations. But then she betrays that sentiment by showing love to the city she continually champions. Karla recently volunteered to help put up the new wheat paste mural at the Burlington Public Library — an eight-hour project. And she did her best to avoid every camera at the event.“I would be just as happy reading a book all day,” she said.Sixty state parksKarla lost her mom last year. Now she is in the phase of her life where it’s time to let go of her mother’s possessions.“That’s my big future project. I need to declutter,” she said. “It’s time to get rid of the stuff I don’t need or use.”After that, Karla would like to travel more. She and her husband have been on an informal conquest of Iowa’s 60 state parks — not counting preserves and recreational areas.They’ve visited about 30 of those parks already. As usual, Karla’s latest inspiration was triggered by chance.“I was just going through some old magazines to throw out, and the ‘Iowa Outdoor Magazine’ had an article several years ago about a woman who visited every state park. And I was like, I could do that,” Karla said.

A love of art, a love for Burlington

William Smith Community Editor

Des Moines County and the surrounding area is mired in a mental health crisis — a crisis that stretches across the state of Iowa.

The Elevate Mobile Crisis Response Team, under the auspices of the Mental Health Agency of Southeast Iowa, is looking to close the gaps in the state’s mental health system.

They’re doing it right now. Anyone within an eight-county region — Des Moines, Henry, Lee, Louisa, Van Buren, Jefferson, Washington, and Keokuk — can call the “988” mental health line.

Two responders with experience in mental health counseling will arrive at your door within an hour. Jennifer Stevenson, director of the Mobile Crisis Response Service, said there is no mental health problem too large or small.

Stevenson would never dare define how important an individual’s mental health crisis might be. They are all important.

“If you are struggling, we will come right to you. And right to you means the home, the car, the gas station, the hotel lobby. Wherever it might be,” Stevenson said. The unit doesn’t just rely on direct calls for help. Anyone can call — a family member worried about self-harm to a gas station attendant concerned a patron is in crisis.

“I really see the mobile crisis as a community unifier,” Stevenson said.

So does Sgt. Chad Zahn, who serves as the public information officer for the Burlington Police Department. Zahn has been pursuing the concept of a mobile crisis unit for several years. He’s delighted the organization is now serving local residents.

“We liken it to an ambulance for someone suffering a mental crisis,” Zahn said. “You have to get to the cause of that crisis, and that’s something we aren’t able to do, strictly because of the amount of time it takes.”

It isn’t easy, and that is why the mobile crisis response team has a close relationship with the police department. Many of the department’s repeat offenders — locals suffering mental health problems in a public setting — now have someone to talk to them after the initial police call.

“Our relationship with law enforcement is critical. We are here to help them. They are asked to be pseudo-professionals in everything,” Stevenson said. “They can get back to the policing, and we can do the follow-up care,” Stevenson said.

Stevenson said the responders will work in pairs for safety’s sake, and police will respond to any possible dangerous calls first.

Much of the legwork that determines the safety of a situation will be done over the phone through the Mobile Crisis Response Service. The responders will show up in their private vehicles, acting discreetly. There are no uniforms or name badges. Stevenson doesn’t want to attract attention to matters that people want to keep private.

“This is a program where someone is experiencing a crisis right now, and we’re able to be with them right now,” Stevenson said.

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 </figure>William Smith Community EditorDes Moines County and the surrounding area is mired in a mental health crisis — a crisis that stretches across the state of Iowa.The Elevate Mobile Crisis Response Team, under the auspices of the Mental Health Agency of Southeast Iowa, is looking to close the gaps in the state’s mental health system.They’re doing it right now. Anyone within an eight-county region — Des Moines, Henry, Lee, Louisa, Van Buren, Jefferson, Washington, and Keokuk — can call the “988” mental health line.Two responders with experience in mental health counseling will arrive at your door within an hour. Jennifer Stevenson, director of the Mobile Crisis Response Service, said there is no mental health problem too large or small.Stevenson would never dare define how important an individual’s mental health crisis might be. They are all important.“If you are struggling, we will come right to you. And right to you means the home, the car, the gas station, the hotel lobby. Wherever it might be,” Stevenson said. The unit doesn’t just rely on direct calls for help. Anyone can call — a family member worried about self-harm to a gas station attendant concerned a patron is in crisis.“I really see the mobile crisis as a community unifier,” Stevenson said.So does Sgt. Chad Zahn, who serves as the public information officer for the Burlington Police Department. Zahn has been pursuing the concept of a mobile crisis unit for several years. He’s delighted the organization is now serving local residents.“We liken it to an ambulance for someone suffering a mental crisis,” Zahn said. “You have to get to the cause of that crisis, and that’s something we aren’t able to do, strictly because of the amount of time it takes.”It isn’t easy, and that is why the mobile crisis response team has a close relationship with the police department. Many of the department’s repeat offenders — locals suffering mental health problems in a public setting — now have someone to talk to them after the initial police call.“Our relationship with law enforcement is critical. We are here to help them. They are asked to be pseudo-professionals in everything,” Stevenson said. “They can get back to the policing, and we can do the follow-up care,” Stevenson said.Stevenson said the responders will work in pairs for safety’s sake, and police will respond to any possible dangerous calls first.Much of the legwork that determines the safety of a situation will be done over the phone through the Mobile Crisis Response Service. The responders will show up in their private vehicles, acting discreetly. There are no uniforms or name badges. Stevenson doesn’t want to attract attention to matters that people want to keep private.“This is a program where someone is experiencing a crisis right now, and we’re able to be with them right now,” Stevenson said.Stevenson is staffing up with more responders right now, who will cover the gamut from social workers to police officers. Those who don’t have enough crisis response training will receive instruction.Of course, not everyone wants help — even if they may need it. Stevenson said responders aren’t pushy. If they respond to the same person 20 times and are told to leave 20 times, that’s what they’ll do.Eventually — maybe the 21st or 22nd time — they can make a connection to that person better. In some circumstances, they may be preventing someone from taking their own life.“We’re really doing triage out in the field,” Stevenson said. “We’re looking at how we can help you and support and keep you safe for the next 24 hours.”Zahn provided a recent example of the mobile crisis unit action. Police officers recently had to take someone to the hospital who was suffering a mental health crisis. Though the Burlington Police Department trains its officers to deal with those situations, they also have to be available for the next call.That leaves an officer about 20 minutes to deal with the situation – mostly as a taxi service to the hospital. The officer leaves shortly after, and often, so does the patient.That didn’t happen this time, Zahn said. The Mobile Crisis team responded to the hospital after being contacted by law enforcement and was able to stay with the patient for an extended period.“We were impressed. All of the officers were impressed,” Zahn said.Stevenson and Zahn don’t claim the program is a cure-all, but it is a desperately needed bandage on an open mental health wound. That wound has festered since the MHI mental health institute in Mount Pleasant closed in 2015.“We noticed a big difference in the number of calls since that closed,” Zahn said.The service is free — no matter how many times you call.“You will never get a bill from anyone,” Stevenson said.

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