By Beacon Staff A West Burlington man was arrested after a vehicle chase that reached speeds in excess of 100 mph wound through West Burlington and Burlington late Friday night, ending when the suspect ran into a vehicle on Mount Pleasant Street. No injuries were reported from the accident, according to a press release issued by the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office Saturday. No further information has been released by police about the vehicle that was struck by the suspect. Izaak Edmund Krieger-Coen, 29, has been charged with speeding, felony eluding, possession of a controlled substance (marijuana), failure to obey a stop sign, driving on the wrong side of a two-way highway, reckless driving, and no insurance. He was transported to the Des Moines County Correctional Center, where his bond was set at $5,000. The chase started at approximately 11:36 p.m. Friday, April 22, according to the release. A deputy with the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop a vehicle for an equipment violation at US 34 and Beaverdale Road. The vehicle failed to stop and attempted to elude law enforcement while heading east on US 34, reaching speeds of 100 miles per hour. The suspect vehicle entered the Burlington city limits and drove north in the southbound lanes of traffic near Roosevelt and West Avenue before weaving back into the correct lanes. The suspect drove east on Division Street and continued to elude law enforcement while speeding and driving through multiple stop signs. The suspect was headed north at South Sixth Street and Market Street when he swerved into the southbound lanes of traffic and towards a marked law enforcement vehicle that had its emergency lights and sirens on. The suspect continued to elude law enforcement throughout downtown Burlington and the North Hill area.&nbsp; The suspect eventually drove west on Mount Pleasant Street, then struck a vehicle at Mount Pleasant Street and Spiegel Street. The damage disabled the suspect’s vehicle, enabling his arrest. The Des Moines County Sheriff's Office was assisted by the Burlington Police Department, West Burlington Police Department, Eighth Judicial District High-Risk Unit, and the Iowa State Patrol.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1650763012464.jpeg" alt="Izaak Edmund Krieger-Coen, 29, has been charged with speeding, felony eluding, possession of a controlled substance (marijuana), failure to obey a stop sign, driving on the wrong side of a two-way highway, reckless driving, and no insurance.&nbsp; Photo provided with press release." />
 <figcaption>Izaak Edmund Krieger-Coen, 29, has been charged with speeding, felony eluding, possession of a controlled substance (marijuana), failure to obey a stop sign, driving on the wrong side of a two-way highway, reckless driving, and no insurance.&nbsp; Photo provided with press release.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Beacon Staff A West Burlington man was arrested after a vehicle chase that reached speeds in excess of 100 mph wound through West Burlington and Burlington late Friday night, ending when the suspect ran into a vehicle on Mount Pleasant Street. No injuries were reported from the accident, according to a press release issued by the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office Saturday. No further information has been released by police about the vehicle that was struck by the suspect. Izaak Edmund Krieger-Coen, 29, has been charged with speeding, felony eluding, possession of a controlled substance (marijuana), failure to obey a stop sign, driving on the wrong side of a two-way highway, reckless driving, and no insurance. He was transported to the Des Moines County Correctional Center, where his bond was set at $5,000. The chase started at approximately 11:36 p.m. Friday, April 22, according to the release. A deputy with the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop a vehicle for an equipment violation at US 34 and Beaverdale Road. The vehicle failed to stop and attempted to elude law enforcement while heading east on US 34, reaching speeds of 100 miles per hour. The suspect vehicle entered the Burlington city limits and drove north in the southbound lanes of traffic near Roosevelt and West Avenue before weaving back into the correct lanes. The suspect drove east on Division Street and continued to elude law enforcement while speeding and driving through multiple stop signs. The suspect was headed north at South Sixth Street and Market Street when he swerved into the southbound lanes of traffic and towards a marked law enforcement vehicle that had its emergency lights and sirens on. The suspect continued to elude law enforcement throughout downtown Burlington and the North Hill area.&nbsp; The suspect eventually drove west on Mount Pleasant Street, then struck a vehicle at Mount Pleasant Street and Spiegel Street. The damage disabled the suspect’s vehicle, enabling his arrest. The Des Moines County Sheriff's Office was assisted by the Burlington Police Department, West Burlington Police Department, Eighth Judicial District High-Risk Unit, and the Iowa State Patrol.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday Night Chase Reaches Speeds of Over 100 MPH, Ends In Crash and Arrest on Mount Pleasant Street

By Paul Elledge for The Beacon The final production of the Players Workshop season is ready to be "eaten up" by the audience! "The Kitchen Witches" by Caroline Smith is a comedy that pits two hosts of live and online cooking shows against each other. No punches are pulled as the two women, Dolly and Isobel, go head to head about everything from recipes to love lives to dressing rooms. And when they are put together on the same show? Watch out, as the "witches" fully appear! Directors Ron Teater and Mary Krohlow really let the actresses embody their inner witch as they stand nose to nose yelling over each other and make hilarious snide remarks under their breath. The set is what you would expect from a cable-access studio and fits well without being distracting. Costuming is great and really adds to the characters. The aforementioned actresses are Christa Parry as Dolly Biddle and Jayne Gobble as Isobel Lomax. These two both bring comedy to these characters - even though they spend a good amount of time yelling at each other. It would have been really easy to make the anger over the top and bury the comedy, but Parry and Gobble manage it like pros. Parry in particular shines as she has an alter ego to start the show, but I won't spoil it. Scott Teater plays Stephen Biddle the producer of Dolly's show who also happens to be her son. Caught between the warring women, Stephen downs antacids like candy and freaks out just enough to add to the comedy while also keeping the live show on track. Rob, the props and camera guy played by Brayden Bowers, reminds you of the old silent movies: he doesn't say much, but his presence and movement always have to be watched because they add to the comedic theme. One extra bit is that the show is played as though it were local. The Kitchen Witches online show is filmed in front of a live audience at the "Burlington Community Center" and references to local towns like Mediapolis and Biggsville are pretty common. It's a nice touch along with the performers interacting with audience members. So, if you enjoy laughing and feeling like you are part of the show, come see "The Kitchen Witches" April 22, 23, 28, 29, and 30 at 7:30 pm or April 24 and May 1 at 2:00 pm. As always, more information can be found at the&nbsp; Players Workshop Facebook page or at <a href="https://www.playersworkshoptheater.com/">www.playersworkshoptheater.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1650676392109.jpeg" alt=""The Kitchen Witches" by Caroline Smith is a comedy that pits two hosts of live and online cooking shows against each other. Photo by Joey Jolin" />
 <figcaption>"The Kitchen Witches" by Caroline Smith is a comedy that pits two hosts of live and online cooking shows against each other. Photo by Joey Jolin</figcaption>
 </figure>By Paul Elledge for The Beacon The final production of the Players Workshop season is ready to be "eaten up" by the audience! "The Kitchen Witches" by Caroline Smith is a comedy that pits two hosts of live and online cooking shows against each other. No punches are pulled as the two women, Dolly and Isobel, go head to head about everything from recipes to love lives to dressing rooms. And when they are put together on the same show? Watch out, as the "witches" fully appear! Directors Ron Teater and Mary Krohlow really let the actresses embody their inner witch as they stand nose to nose yelling over each other and make hilarious snide remarks under their breath. The set is what you would expect from a cable-access studio and fits well without being distracting. Costuming is great and really adds to the characters. The aforementioned actresses are Christa Parry as Dolly Biddle and Jayne Gobble as Isobel Lomax. These two both bring comedy to these characters - even though they spend a good amount of time yelling at each other. It would have been really easy to make the anger over the top and bury the comedy, but Parry and Gobble manage it like pros. Parry in particular shines as she has an alter ego to start the show, but I won't spoil it. Scott Teater plays Stephen Biddle the producer of Dolly's show who also happens to be her son. Caught between the warring women, Stephen downs antacids like candy and freaks out just enough to add to the comedy while also keeping the live show on track. Rob, the props and camera guy played by Brayden Bowers, reminds you of the old silent movies: he doesn't say much, but his presence and movement always have to be watched because they add to the comedic theme. One extra bit is that the show is played as though it were local. The Kitchen Witches online show is filmed in front of a live audience at the "Burlington Community Center" and references to local towns like Mediapolis and Biggsville are pretty common. It's a nice touch along with the performers interacting with audience members. So, if you enjoy laughing and feeling like you are part of the show, come see "The Kitchen Witches" April 22, 23, 28, 29, and 30 at 7:30 pm or April 24 and May 1 at 2:00 pm. As always, more information can be found at the&nbsp; Players Workshop Facebook page or at <a href="https://www.playersworkshoptheater.com/">www.playersworkshoptheater.com</a>.

"Kitchen Witches" Cooks Up Laughs

By William Smith Community Editor Burlington’s annual Earth Day Clean-Up returns for its 21st year this Saturday and will start in a different location from previous years. The event, which always lands on or around Earth Day, is set to start at 8 a.m. Saturday, April 23 at Community Field. The event is usually held at the Port of Burlington, but the TIGER Grant-funded construction surrounding the port building doesn’t make it feasible this year. As always, the cleanup is being hosted by the Keep Burlington Beautiful committee. The official cleanup is slated to be from 8 to 11 a.m., but volunteers can also clean at other times. “We just want take pride in our community,” said Keep Burlington Beautiful committee member Jessica Gerling. “This is the area that we all inhabit, and this gives people the ability to give back, and to meet other people in the community.”&nbsp; Despite the location change, the event will work much as it has in previous years. Groups of volunteers armed with trash bags will spread out across the Burlington area, from Bonn’s Hollow to the highway exit points in between. Before the volunteers head out, they need to stop by Community Field for a drive-through experience that will supply them with all the materials they need. There will even be free smoothies. LED lightbulbs will be provided to the first 50 people by the Renewable Energy Committee. “We will have tents set up at Community Field, and people will stop by, get their location they will be cleaning, and sign a waiver,” Gerling said. “Then they will move over to the next tent, and Des Moines County Conservation will be passing out safety vests and gloves and trash bags.” Once the volunteers are done cleaning up, they’ll either bring the loaded trash bags back to Community Field to be loaded in a solid waste truck or leave them and mark the location via text message so the bags can be picked up by city crews. "Dress appropriately and wear shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. If you have any extended grabbers you want to use, or heavy gloves, bring those. We just have the vinyl, nitro gloves,” Gerling said.&nbsp; Gerling is hoping to assign some groups of adults to the exit ramps and noted that those areas are particularly rife with trash. Youth are also prominent during the clean-up, consisting of scout troops and other clubs that will be assigned to various areas. “We had 200 people come out last year, and they collected 500 pounds of garbage. I would love to see more people come out,” Gerling said. Gerling is encouraging those who can’t attend the event to still engage in a little clean-up, even if it’s just around their yard and neighborhood. Door prizes are available for those who post pictures of their cleanup efforts on Keep Burlington Beautiful's Facebook page with the hashtag #keepburlingtonbeautiful. Participants will also have a chance to buy 2022 Earth Day Cleanup T-shirts for $10; shirts from previous years will be on sale for $5. Gerling said this year’s door prizes are particularly robust, and one of the prizes is an all-expenses paid camping package. The forecast calls for a temperature of 76 degrees Saturday, ensuring ideal conditions for a garbage clean-up – despite the 40 percent chance for rain. “We’re excited for a great day,” Gerling said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1650659494211.jpeg" alt="Tyler French of Burlington, left, along with a group of downtown business employees and their children, worked to clean up the Third Street alley leading to Jefferson Street. The volunteers joined more than 100 others who participated in the 19th annual Burlington&nbsp;Earth&nbsp;Day&nbsp;Cleanup in 2019.&nbsp; Beacon file photo by William Smith." />
 <figcaption>Tyler French of Burlington, left, along with a group of downtown business employees and their children, worked to clean up the Third Street alley leading to Jefferson Street. The volunteers joined more than 100 others who participated in the 19th annual Burlington&nbsp;Earth&nbsp;Day&nbsp;Cleanup in 2019.&nbsp; Beacon file photo by William Smith.</figcaption>
 </figure>By William Smith Community Editor Burlington’s annual Earth Day Clean-Up returns for its 21st year this Saturday and will start in a different location from previous years. The event, which always lands on or around Earth Day, is set to start at 8 a.m. Saturday, April 23 at Community Field. The event is usually held at the Port of Burlington, but the TIGER Grant-funded construction surrounding the port building doesn’t make it feasible this year. As always, the cleanup is being hosted by the Keep Burlington Beautiful committee. The official cleanup is slated to be from 8 to 11 a.m., but volunteers can also clean at other times. “We just want take pride in our community,” said Keep Burlington Beautiful committee member Jessica Gerling. “This is the area that we all inhabit, and this gives people the ability to give back, and to meet other people in the community.”&nbsp; Despite the location change, the event will work much as it has in previous years. Groups of volunteers armed with trash bags will spread out across the Burlington area, from Bonn’s Hollow to the highway exit points in between. Before the volunteers head out, they need to stop by Community Field for a drive-through experience that will supply them with all the materials they need. There will even be free smoothies. LED lightbulbs will be provided to the first 50 people by the Renewable Energy Committee. “We will have tents set up at Community Field, and people will stop by, get their location they will be cleaning, and sign a waiver,” Gerling said. “Then they will move over to the next tent, and Des Moines County Conservation will be passing out safety vests and gloves and trash bags.” Once the volunteers are done cleaning up, they’ll either bring the loaded trash bags back to Community Field to be loaded in a solid waste truck or leave them and mark the location via text message so the bags can be picked up by city crews. "Dress appropriately and wear shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. If you have any extended grabbers you want to use, or heavy gloves, bring those. We just have the vinyl, nitro gloves,” Gerling said.&nbsp; Gerling is hoping to assign some groups of adults to the exit ramps and noted that those areas are particularly rife with trash. Youth are also prominent during the clean-up, consisting of scout troops and other clubs that will be assigned to various areas. “We had 200 people come out last year, and they collected 500 pounds of garbage. I would love to see more people come out,” Gerling said. Gerling is encouraging those who can’t attend the event to still engage in a little clean-up, even if it’s just around their yard and neighborhood. Door prizes are available for those who post pictures of their cleanup efforts on Keep Burlington Beautiful's Facebook page with the hashtag #keepburlingtonbeautiful. Participants will also have a chance to buy 2022 Earth Day Cleanup T-shirts for $10; shirts from previous years will be on sale for $5. Gerling said this year’s door prizes are particularly robust, and one of the prizes is an all-expenses paid camping package. The forecast calls for a temperature of 76 degrees Saturday, ensuring ideal conditions for a garbage clean-up – despite the 40 percent chance for rain. “We’re excited for a great day,” Gerling said.

Earth Day Volunteers Will Clean The Streets Saturday

By Stacey Abell Burlington Beacon

David Kroll always seems to
be one step ahead.

At least that was a recurring
theme in conversations between friends and family members of&nbsp;the
Burlington-based musician and songwriter&nbsp;during an invitation-only
listening party on April 4, 2022.

While others are making
plans, he's already in the future with everyone trying to catch up in his wake.
Nothing, however, could have adequately prepared him for two major life events
that would knock him off his feet.

In his new recordings, his
first since 2017 and the only of songs he’s written completely independently,
Kroll explores the central theme of love that runs through it all.

“The last time I saw him, I had no idea it would be
the last time I saw him.”

The words hung heavy in the air as Kroll recalled his
best friend, Tracy “Tray” McCampbell. The dimly lit confines of The Washington
filled with a cacophony of voices as friends and family from near and far
gathered to celebrate McCampbell’s life and the song written in his honor. 

Known as “Tray Mac” to his countless friends,
McCampbell passed away on July 8, 2020, after having been diagnosed with cancer
a year and a half earlier. He was 34 years old.

“If you asked any of the guys, they would all say Tray
was their best friend,” Stacy McCampbell, Tray’s mother, said with a smile. Tray
had a genius for friendship. After moving away from Burlington, he often had to
keep his trips back to his hometown under the radar to avoid being pulled in
multiple directions. From an early age, he had a personality and presence that
was beyond his years. As Stacy said, he was “larger than life.”

Tray’s death took even those closest to him by
surprise because they didn’t fully understand the severity of his condition or
how much he was suffering.

“He protected us from that because he loved us so
much,” said Candice Ives, Tray’s sister. Along with his wife, Mandy, Tray often
shielded his loved ones from the difficult news and instead focused on the possibilities.

After Tray died, Kroll knew he had to do something to
keep his friend’s memory alive. He was the first of Tray’s loved ones to get a
tattoo, a stylized design surrounding the name “Tray Mac” emblazoned on his right
inner wrist. 

But it wasn’t enough for the friend who had been by
his side since childhood and had poured so much love into the world. In a
statement he wrote after Tray’s death, Kroll said, “If we are put on this earth
to experience love, Tray experienced love that equaled a thousand lifetimes
over in just 34 years.”

Kroll describes “Tray Mac” as his favorite of the
three songs he recently recorded, but the songwriting process was a struggle.
The first verse came easily, but everything after seemed bent on going down a
dark path. 

He knew that wasn’t what Tray would have wanted. 

“Some people in this world are just songworthy. And
he was. I knew it had to be good. I didn’t want to do him wrong,” Kroll said.

On his journey to complete the song, Kroll sat down
for a reading with a psychic, hoping to have some sort of connection with Tray.
Despite his skepticism, he found the extra push he needed in the message
delivered to him: “You’re overthinking it. Finish the damn song!”

The puzzle finally came together with a little help
from friends Bob Huppenbauer, Lamar Timmons, Jon Ludens, Derrick Taylor, and
Zach Boyd. 

The group keeps Tray’s memory alive by sharing stories
of their exploits, adventures, and humorous anecdotes. The five of them
recorded some of their memories as voice memos; those recordings are woven
together at the end of the extended version of the song.

Sitting across the table from Kroll, Stacy’s support
for his latest songwriting endeavor is evident. “We just love David,” she said.
She does admit that this moment is bittersweet for her: “When I heard the guys
on the extended version, that’s when the tears started flowing.”

Timmons’ segment elicited peals of laughter from those
in attendance as he recounted his tendency toward clumsiness in his youth. Tray
once told him, “My mom said there are two types of people, Lamar – liabilities
and assets. And you are a liability.”

Others spoke of Tray’s leadership, his intelligence, and
his infectious laugh. But most of all, they recalled how he loved fearlessly.

And, true to Kroll’s intention, the lyrics are humorous
and sweet but never maudlin.

Kroll related to the audience that everyone in the recording
studio was “bawling their eyes out” when the voice memos were added. Many
expressed they felt like they knew Tray after listening to the song.

“I hope that when you hear the song, you’ll get to
know Tray,” he said. “And if you weren’t lucky enough to know him, you’ll wish
you had.”

Tray showed his friendship by supporting Kroll through
a deeply personal revelation. At the age of 34, Kroll came out to his family
and friends. Opening up about his identity as a gay man was not an overnight
journey. 

“If you would’ve told me that I would go back to
Nashville and sing songs about being gay, I would’ve said, ‘No way in hell!’” 

Kroll described how his previous songwriting
experiences involved writing hundreds of songs for other people, turning them
in to a team, and receiving feedback.

“They would tell me if they (the songs) suck or not,”
Kroll said with a chuckle.

But times have changed. And Kroll said, “I have a lot
to say.”

Kroll characterized this phase in his life as a time in
which he can be true to himself and is “comfortable in his skin.” He views his
talent as a tool he can use to ease the way for other people who might be in
the same situation. 

Much to his amazement, his family, friends, and the
Burlington community received him with open arms. And now, he wants
everyone to feel as welcome.

“Whatever platform I have, I want to use it. If
there’s anyone struggling, you’re represented,” Kroll said. “You’re not the
only person in the world feeling like this.”

To that end, Kroll is releasing two new songs toward
the beginning of June, which coincides with the start of Pride month. 

“Child of the Sun” is an earnest, wistful recounting
of a man searching for love. It was written during a period of transition for
Kroll – he was leaving an old life behind and looking to forge a new identity.
In Kroll’s words, “It was written about someone I was hoping to find one day.”

The second of the two songs, “When I Found You,” is
the next chapter in that story. As Kroll says, “I found that someone.”

Kroll’s voice became choked with emotion as he speaks
about his partner, Devin Rohr. “The stars lined up for Dev and I to meet,”
Kroll said.

At the end of each verse, Kroll’s voice soars upward
into a tender falsetto which breaks way into a joyous chorus celebrating
newfound love.

And the joy with which Kroll sings is also about finding room in
his heart to love himself: “When I stopped trying to be the man everyone wanted
me to be…When I found you, I found me.”

Most of those gathered at the listening party have
been with Kroll for the long haul, since his days as a local boy with a voice
and a dream.

“It’s good to see him getting back to his writing,
writing things that mean a lot to him,” said David’s mother, Diane Kroll,
beaming with pride. “It’s going to be good to hear.”

Alaina Paxton and Lori Ray of Dallas City met Kroll
before he went to Nashville the first time and have logged miles on the road
following his band to various locales throughout the country. “He’s written a
lot of songs with other people. We just love the songs and we’re excited to
hear new music,” Ray said.

Cindy Nichting of Salem has been all over the country
to see Kroll perform and is excited to see him back in the studio and happy
with where he’s at in life. “We didn’t know if that was going to happen,” she
said.

Although he’s no longer in the Nashville scene, Kroll has
a newfound love for his craft inspired by his hard-won creative freedom. He
admitted that when he left Music City, he thought he might never write songs again. But now, he says, “I don’t think that’s true.”

“I lived in fear until the age of 34, and to let go of
that fear was life-changing,” Kroll said. “When you sit down to write a song
and you start getting real, it gets a lot easier.”

Kroll has lived long enough to have regrets, but he tries
not to dwell on them. Instead, he focuses on being grateful for a life he didn’t
think was possible.

In his own way, Kroll is doing his part to live up to
the words he wrote in tribute to Tray: “I believe the reason we are here on
this earth is simple. It’s to experience love. To spread, share, and receive
love.”

“Tray Mac” will be released on all music streaming
platforms May 1 in honor of Tray’s birthday. 

“When I Found You” and “Child of the Sun” will be
released on June 1 and June 3, respectively.

David Kroll will be performing at Friday Fest, April
22 at 5:30 p.m. at The Depot. Follow @KrollPatrol on Facebook and @davidkrollmusic
on Instagram for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1650647285405.jpeg" alt="The cover art for one of David Kroll's newest songs, "Tray Mac," depicts Tray McCampbell and his wife, Mandy. McCampbell died in 2020 from a rare form of cancer. Image provided by David Kroll" />
 <figcaption>The cover art for one of David Kroll's newest songs, "Tray Mac," depicts Tray McCampbell and his wife, Mandy. McCampbell died in 2020 from a rare form of cancer. Image provided by David Kroll</figcaption>
 </figure>By Stacey Abell Burlington BeaconDavid Kroll always seems to
be one step ahead.At least that was a recurring
theme in conversations between friends and family members of&nbsp;the
Burlington-based musician and songwriter&nbsp;during an invitation-only
listening party on April 4, 2022.While others are making
plans, he's already in the future with everyone trying to catch up in his wake.
Nothing, however, could have adequately prepared him for two major life events
that would knock him off his feet.In his new recordings, his
first since 2017 and the only of songs he’s written completely independently,
Kroll explores the central theme of love that runs through it all. 
Larger Than Life<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1650647147460.jpeg" alt="David Kroll and Tray McCampbell's friendship began in their youth and continued on through adulthood. Photo submitted by Stacy McCampbell" />
 <figcaption>David Kroll and Tray McCampbell's friendship began in their youth and continued on through adulthood. Photo submitted by Stacy McCampbell</figcaption>
 </figure>“The last time I saw him, I had no idea it would be
the last time I saw him.”The words hung heavy in the air as Kroll recalled his
best friend, Tracy “Tray” McCampbell. The dimly lit confines of The Washington
filled with a cacophony of voices as friends and family from near and far
gathered to celebrate McCampbell’s life and the song written in his honor. Known as “Tray Mac” to his countless friends,
McCampbell passed away on July 8, 2020, after having been diagnosed with cancer
a year and a half earlier. He was 34 years old.“If you asked any of the guys, they would all say Tray
was their best friend,” Stacy McCampbell, Tray’s mother, said with a smile. Tray
had a genius for friendship. After moving away from Burlington, he often had to
keep his trips back to his hometown under the radar to avoid being pulled in
multiple directions. From an early age, he had a personality and presence that
was beyond his years. As Stacy said, he was “larger than life.”Tray’s death took even those closest to him by
surprise because they didn’t fully understand the severity of his condition or
how much he was suffering.“He protected us from that because he loved us so
much,” said Candice Ives, Tray’s sister. Along with his wife, Mandy, Tray often
shielded his loved ones from the difficult news and instead focused on the possibilities.After Tray died, Kroll knew he had to do something to
keep his friend’s memory alive. He was the first of Tray’s loved ones to get a
tattoo, a stylized design surrounding the name “Tray Mac” emblazoned on his right
inner wrist. But it wasn’t enough for the friend who had been by
his side since childhood and had poured so much love into the world. In a
statement he wrote after Tray’s death, Kroll said, “If we are put on this earth
to experience love, Tray experienced love that equaled a thousand lifetimes
over in just 34 years.”Tray Mac<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1650647749573.jpeg" alt="Memories of Tray McCampbell's life are recounted in the song "Tray Mac." Friends contributed recorded voice memos to the project. Pictured from left to right are Zach Boyd, Lamar Timmons, McCampbell, and Kroll. Photo submitted." />
 <figcaption>Memories of Tray McCampbell's life are recounted in the song "Tray Mac." Friends contributed recorded voice memos to the project. Pictured from left to right are Zach Boyd, Lamar Timmons, McCampbell, and Kroll. Photo submitted.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kroll describes “Tray Mac” as his favorite of the
three songs he recently recorded, but the songwriting process was a struggle.
The first verse came easily, but everything after seemed bent on going down a
dark path. He knew that wasn’t what Tray would have wanted. “Some people in this world are just songworthy. And
he was. I knew it had to be good. I didn’t want to do him wrong,” Kroll said.On his journey to complete the song, Kroll sat down
for a reading with a psychic, hoping to have some sort of connection with Tray.
Despite his skepticism, he found the extra push he needed in the message
delivered to him: “You’re overthinking it. Finish the damn song!”The puzzle finally came together with a little help
from friends Bob Huppenbauer, Lamar Timmons, Jon Ludens, Derrick Taylor, and
Zach Boyd. The group keeps Tray’s memory alive by sharing stories
of their exploits, adventures, and humorous anecdotes. The five of them
recorded some of their memories as voice memos; those recordings are woven
together at the end of the extended version of the song.Sitting across the table from Kroll, Stacy’s support
for his latest songwriting endeavor is evident. “We just love David,” she said.
She does admit that this moment is bittersweet for her: “When I heard the guys
on the extended version, that’s when the tears started flowing.”Timmons’ segment elicited peals of laughter from those
in attendance as he recounted his tendency toward clumsiness in his youth. Tray
once told him, “My mom said there are two types of people, Lamar – liabilities
and assets. And you are a liability.”Others spoke of Tray’s leadership, his intelligence, and
his infectious laugh. But most of all, they recalled how he loved fearlessly.And, true to Kroll’s intention, the lyrics are humorous
and sweet but never maudlin.Kroll related to the audience that everyone in the recording
studio was “bawling their eyes out” when the voice memos were added. Many
expressed they felt like they knew Tray after listening to the song.And that’s Kroll’s fondest wish.“I hope that when you hear the song, you’ll get to
know Tray,” he said. “And if you weren’t lucky enough to know him, you’ll wish
you had.”True to Himself<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1650647961242.jpeg" alt="Kroll views his talent as a tool and a platform he can use to let other people know they are not alone. Photo by Phil Pool/Omni Photography" />
 <figcaption>Kroll views his talent as a tool and a platform he can use to let other people know they are not alone. Photo by Phil Pool/Omni Photography</figcaption>
 </figure>Tray showed his friendship by supporting Kroll through
a deeply personal revelation. At the age of 34, Kroll came out to his family
and friends. Opening up about his identity as a gay man was not an overnight
journey. “If you would’ve told me that I would go back to
Nashville and sing songs about being gay, I would’ve said, ‘No way in hell!’” Kroll described how his previous songwriting
experiences involved writing hundreds of songs for other people, turning them
in to a team, and receiving feedback.“They would tell me if they (the songs) suck or not,”
Kroll said with a chuckle.But times have changed. And Kroll said, “I have a lot
to say.”Kroll characterized this phase in his life as a time in
which he can be true to himself and is “comfortable in his skin.” He views his
talent as a tool he can use to ease the way for other people who might be in
the same situation. Much to his amazement, his family, friends, and the
Burlington community received him with open arms. And now, he wants
everyone to feel as welcome.“Whatever platform I have, I want to use it. If
there’s anyone struggling, you’re represented,” Kroll said. “You’re not the
only person in the world feeling like this.”To that end, Kroll is releasing two new songs toward
the beginning of June, which coincides with the start of Pride month. “Child of the Sun” is an earnest, wistful recounting
of a man searching for love. It was written during a period of transition for
Kroll – he was leaving an old life behind and looking to forge a new identity.
In Kroll’s words, “It was written about someone I was hoping to find one day.”The second of the two songs, “When I Found You,” is
the next chapter in that story. As Kroll says, “I found that someone.”Kroll’s voice became choked with emotion as he speaks
about his partner, Devin Rohr. “The stars lined up for Dev and I to meet,”
Kroll said.At the end of each verse, Kroll’s voice soars upward
into a tender falsetto which breaks way into a joyous chorus celebrating
newfound love.And the joy with which Kroll sings is also about finding room in
his heart to love himself: “When I stopped trying to be the man everyone wanted
me to be…When I found you, I found me.”Love Lives On<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1650648728637.jpeg" alt="Surrounded by friends and members of the McCampbell family, David Kroll introduced three new songs at a listening party on April 4. Photo by Stacey Abell." />
 <figcaption>Surrounded by friends and members of the McCampbell family, David Kroll introduced three new songs at a listening party on April 4. Photo by Stacey Abell.</figcaption>
 </figure>Most of those gathered at the listening party have
been with Kroll for the long haul, since his days as a local boy with a voice
and a dream.“It’s good to see him getting back to his writing,
writing things that mean a lot to him,” said David’s mother, Diane Kroll,
beaming with pride. “It’s going to be good to hear.”Alaina Paxton and Lori Ray of Dallas City met Kroll
before he went to Nashville the first time and have logged miles on the road
following his band to various locales throughout the country. “He’s written a
lot of songs with other people. We just love the songs and we’re excited to
hear new music,” Ray said.Cindy Nichting of Salem has been all over the country
to see Kroll perform and is excited to see him back in the studio and happy
with where he’s at in life. “We didn’t know if that was going to happen,” she
said.Although he’s no longer in the Nashville scene, Kroll has
a newfound love for his craft inspired by his hard-won creative freedom. He
admitted that when he left Music City, he thought he might never write songs again. But now, he says, “I don’t think that’s true.”“I lived in fear until the age of 34, and to let go of
that fear was life-changing,” Kroll said. “When you sit down to write a song
and you start getting real, it gets a lot easier.”Kroll has lived long enough to have regrets, but he tries
not to dwell on them. Instead, he focuses on being grateful for a life he didn’t
think was possible.In his own way, Kroll is doing his part to live up to
the words he wrote in tribute to Tray: “I believe the reason we are here on
this earth is simple. It’s to experience love. To spread, share, and receive
love.”…“Tray Mac” will be released on all music streaming
platforms May 1 in honor of Tray’s birthday. “When I Found You” and “Child of the Sun” will be
released on June 1 and June 3, respectively.David Kroll will be performing at Friday Fest, April
22 at 5:30 p.m. at The Depot. Follow @KrollPatrol on Facebook and @davidkrollmusic
on Instagram for more information.

In new music, Kroll writes from the heart

In the end, removing the concrete stage attached to the Port of Burlington proved too expensive a venture for the Burlington City Council.

The council unanimously voted against a resolution to remove the stage during its regular meeting on Monday night, April 18, just a week after discussing the benefits of removing it during a council work session.

“I’m the one who brought this up. So, I’m willing to vote it down tonight, with the intent that we still look at the project, to look at a bid from a local contractor,” mayor Jon Billups said during the meeting.

Council members agreed that the spalling and cracking stage should be removed and possibly replaced with parking or space for entertainment acts.&nbsp;

However, justifying the cost without a definitive end goal did not make sense.

Billups said the council can revisit the issue with a vote on a more complete plan in the future.

“As far as projects go in the city, removing the stage, even if we don’t use it, it is very low on the list. I feel like there’s a lot of other needs we need to address,” councilman Matt Rinker.

The tipping point that turned the council against the stage removal came when Rinker said it could cost as much as $200,000 to raze the stage and repair the area after it is removed.&nbsp;

Despite hundreds of Facebook comments condemning the plan, no one from the public attended Monday’s meeting to speak for or against it.

During last week’s work session, assistant city manager for public works Nick MacGregor presented an $85,000 estimate to remove the stage.&nbsp;

That estimate included concrete and rebar removal and the removal of a power transformer.&nbsp;

It did not include repair of the area, and MacGregor said Rinker’s overall estimate isn’t far off. MacGregor said it could cost somewhere between $100,000 and $200,000.

Regardless of what happens in the future, Billups said the tile plaque that runs the length of the stage and commemorates its construction will be preserved. He said disrepair to the stage, consisting of spalling and cracking, has already damaged one of the tiles.&nbsp;

The stage was paid for by the now-defunct Burlington Steamboat Days committee, and Billups noted that his father, Ron Billups, is one of the names on that plaque.

“Steamboat Days runs in my blood,” Billups said, noting this he is a past volunteer, board chairman, and foundation president for BSD.

Mike O’Neil, the executive director of Burlington Riverfront Entertainment, spoke at the meeting and confirmed that he has never used the stage for concerts.

In other news, the council approved changes to the solid waste ordinance that makes it unlawful to dump in business or commercial dumpsters without the owner’s express consent.&nbsp;

This enables the owner to press charges and gives the police more authority to enforce the ordinance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1650465006587.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Beacon StaffIn the end, removing the concrete stage attached to the Port of Burlington proved too expensive a venture for the Burlington City Council.The council unanimously voted against a resolution to remove the stage during its regular meeting on Monday night, April 18, just a week after discussing the benefits of removing it during a council work session.“I’m the one who brought this up. So, I’m willing to vote it down tonight, with the intent that we still look at the project, to look at a bid from a local contractor,” mayor Jon Billups said during the meeting.Council members agreed that the spalling and cracking stage should be removed and possibly replaced with parking or space for entertainment acts.&nbsp;However, justifying the cost without a definitive end goal did not make sense.Billups said the council can revisit the issue with a vote on a more complete plan in the future.“As far as projects go in the city, removing the stage, even if we don’t use it, it is very low on the list. I feel like there’s a lot of other needs we need to address,” councilman Matt Rinker.The tipping point that turned the council against the stage removal came when Rinker said it could cost as much as $200,000 to raze the stage and repair the area after it is removed.&nbsp;Despite hundreds of Facebook comments condemning the plan, no one from the public attended Monday’s meeting to speak for or against it.During last week’s work session, assistant city manager for public works Nick MacGregor presented an $85,000 estimate to remove the stage.&nbsp;That estimate included concrete and rebar removal and the removal of a power transformer.&nbsp;It did not include repair of the area, and MacGregor said Rinker’s overall estimate isn’t far off. MacGregor said it could cost somewhere between $100,000 and $200,000.Regardless of what happens in the future, Billups said the tile plaque that runs the length of the stage and commemorates its construction will be preserved. He said disrepair to the stage, consisting of spalling and cracking, has already damaged one of the tiles.&nbsp;The stage was paid for by the now-defunct Burlington Steamboat Days committee, and Billups noted that his father, Ron Billups, is one of the names on that plaque.“Steamboat Days runs in my blood,” Billups said, noting this he is a past volunteer, board chairman, and foundation president for BSD.Mike O’Neil, the executive director of Burlington Riverfront Entertainment, spoke at the meeting and confirmed that he has never used the stage for concerts.In other news, the council approved changes to the solid waste ordinance that makes it unlawful to dump in business or commercial dumpsters without the owner’s express consent.&nbsp;This enables the owner to press charges and gives the police more authority to enforce the ordinance.

Council nixes removal of Port of Burlington stage

The community is invited to a celebration of life for Gabryel Atkinson on Saturday, April 16 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Bracewell Stadium. There will be goodies and inflatables for families to have fun and make memories together. Per Gabryel's request, attendees are encouraged to wear sports attire, jerseys, or a costume. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Special Needs Foundation of Des Moines County. Gabryel passed away on Saturday, April 9, 2022. He was diagnosed with a rare chromosome 9 abnormality before he was born. In fact, Gabryel was the only documented case of this abnormality in the world, and doctors had cautioned his parents that he might not survive through the pregnancy. During his young life, Gabryel faced many health complications and had more than 50 procedures and countless hospital admissions. Despite these adversities, he lived life to the fullest -- even attending school and making it to the first grade. He especially loved Miss Hallie, Miss Alma, and the rest of his Black Hawk family. Gabryel is survived by his parents, Ande and Liz Atkinson, and brothers, Sebastyan Atkinson and Austin Mayo.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1650051601604.jpeg" alt="Gabryel Atkinson" />
 <figcaption>Gabryel Atkinson</figcaption>
 </figure>The community is invited to a celebration of life for Gabryel Atkinson on Saturday, April 16 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Bracewell Stadium. There will be goodies and inflatables for families to have fun and make memories together. Per Gabryel's request, attendees are encouraged to wear sports attire, jerseys, or a costume. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Special Needs Foundation of Des Moines County. Gabryel passed away on Saturday, April 9, 2022. He was diagnosed with a rare chromosome 9 abnormality before he was born. In fact, Gabryel was the only documented case of this abnormality in the world, and doctors had cautioned his parents that he might not survive through the pregnancy. During his young life, Gabryel faced many health complications and had more than 50 procedures and countless hospital admissions. Despite these adversities, he lived life to the fullest -- even attending school and making it to the first grade. He especially loved Miss Hallie, Miss Alma, and the rest of his Black Hawk family. Gabryel is survived by his parents, Ande and Liz Atkinson, and brothers, Sebastyan Atkinson and Austin Mayo.

Celebration of Life for Gabryel Atkinson

U.S. Sen. Charles Grassley spoke on a variety of topics at the Burlington Public Library Wednesday morning, April 13, running the gamut of the political spectrum.

Most of those topics sprang from questions in the audience. Topics included the legitimacy and power of the Centers For Disease Control, Hunter Biden’s laptop, the Capitol Riot, and the war in Ukraine.

When one audience member asked Grassley what he knew about a possible Neo-Nazi presence in Ukraine, Grassley said he doubted a country with a Jewish leader —&nbsp; president Volodymyr Zelenskyy —was harboring a large Nazi presence. He said any Nazis would likely be an anomaly.

“I think he (Zelenskyy) is a very great president,” Grassley said.&nbsp;

Before answering questions, Grassley brought up one issue that particularly concerns him — the rising inflation and high gas prices.&nbsp;

He lightly lauded President Joe Biden for allowing the summer sale of E15 (ethanol-based) gasoline. The fuel is normally banned from sale in the summer to combat smog.&nbsp;

“He is allowing that to happen, at least this summer. Hopefully, it’s every summer,” Grassley said.

Grassley said the frustration over rising gas prices is rife everywhere he goes.

“I know your frustration about it. I feel that frustration at my town meetings. It’s affecting the family pocketbook all the time.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1650038670072.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Beacon StaffU.S. Sen. Charles Grassley spoke on a variety of topics at the Burlington Public Library Wednesday morning, April 13, running the gamut of the political spectrum.Most of those topics sprang from questions in the audience. Topics included the legitimacy and power of the Centers For Disease Control, Hunter Biden’s laptop, the Capitol Riot, and the war in Ukraine.When one audience member asked Grassley what he knew about a possible Neo-Nazi presence in Ukraine, Grassley said he doubted a country with a Jewish leader —&nbsp; president Volodymyr Zelenskyy —was harboring a large Nazi presence. He said any Nazis would likely be an anomaly.“I think he (Zelenskyy) is a very great president,” Grassley said.&nbsp;Before answering questions, Grassley brought up one issue that particularly concerns him — the rising inflation and high gas prices.&nbsp;He lightly lauded President Joe Biden for allowing the summer sale of E15 (ethanol-based) gasoline. The fuel is normally banned from sale in the summer to combat smog.&nbsp;“He is allowing that to happen, at least this summer. Hopefully, it’s every summer,” Grassley said.Grassley said the frustration over rising gas prices is rife everywhere he goes.“I know your frustration about it. I feel that frustration at my town meetings. It’s affecting the family pocketbook all the time.”

Grassley addresses gas prices, Ukraine

The first Harry
and Virginia Murray Foundation Free Travelogue of 2022 takes place at the
Capitol Theater in downtown Burlington on Thursday, April 21. “A Cruise Down
the Nile”, presented by Marlin Darrah with two showtimes, 1:30 pm and 7:30
pm. The Murray Foundation presents five free travelogues per year, as a gift to
the community Harry and Virginia Murray lived in and loved. The Egypt of the Pharaohs. Of ancient
Greeks and Romans. Of Christian Egypt. Islamic Egypt. All these people’s
lifeblood was and remains the Nile, the longest river on earth. Egypt is the
gift of the Nile. It flows through the most populated country in the Middle and
the second-most populated country in Africa. The magnificent river flows
northward, almost entirely through desert, from Sudan into Egypt, where since
ancient times its civilization has depended on the great Nile. Here, along the
banks of the river, you will find nearly all the cultural and historical sites
of Ancient Egypt. Even today - except for the Mediterranean coastal towns - most
of its population lies near the Nile. This high-definition cinematic study
by award-winning filmmaker, Marlin Darrah, tells us the story of Egypt and the
Nile, taking you on a memorable journey to incredible destinations such as the
Pyramids of Giza and Sakkara; through the market streets of the swollen and
over-burdened city of Cairo, with a population of over 10 million; to ancient
Memphis; to the beautiful city of Alexandria by the Mediterranean; to the remarkable
achievement known as the Suez Canal; to the holy sites in Sinai; to the Red Sea
and the great Temples of Luxor, Karnak, and Aswan. Along the way, you’ll meet
some of the friendliest and most hospitable people in the world. Pre-show keyboard entertainment
starting 20 minutes prior to the shows will be provided by Jerry Parks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1649865988660.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The first Harry
and Virginia Murray Foundation Free Travelogue of 2022 takes place at the
Capitol Theater in downtown Burlington on Thursday, April 21. “A Cruise Down
the Nile”, presented by Marlin Darrah with two showtimes, 1:30 pm and 7:30
pm. The Murray Foundation presents five free travelogues per year, as a gift to
the community Harry and Virginia Murray lived in and loved. The Egypt of the Pharaohs. Of ancient
Greeks and Romans. Of Christian Egypt. Islamic Egypt. All these people’s
lifeblood was and remains the Nile, the longest river on earth. Egypt is the
gift of the Nile. It flows through the most populated country in the Middle and
the second-most populated country in Africa. The magnificent river flows
northward, almost entirely through desert, from Sudan into Egypt, where since
ancient times its civilization has depended on the great Nile. Here, along the
banks of the river, you will find nearly all the cultural and historical sites
of Ancient Egypt. Even today - except for the Mediterranean coastal towns - most
of its population lies near the Nile. This high-definition cinematic study
by award-winning filmmaker, Marlin Darrah, tells us the story of Egypt and the
Nile, taking you on a memorable journey to incredible destinations such as the
Pyramids of Giza and Sakkara; through the market streets of the swollen and
over-burdened city of Cairo, with a population of over 10 million; to ancient
Memphis; to the beautiful city of Alexandria by the Mediterranean; to the remarkable
achievement known as the Suez Canal; to the holy sites in Sinai; to the Red Sea
and the great Temples of Luxor, Karnak, and Aswan. Along the way, you’ll meet
some of the friendliest and most hospitable people in the world. Pre-show keyboard entertainment
starting 20 minutes prior to the shows will be provided by Jerry Parks.

Cruise the Nile at Burlington’s Capitol Theater

By William Smith Community Editor

Robert Scott, future Burlington Community School District superintendent, was in Burlington this past weekend, to get a feel for the community while meeting with local leaders and attending a school board meeting.

One thing was obvious to him. Burlington bleeds purple and gray. And now, so does he.

Scott, who takes over for retiring BCSD Superintendent Pat Coen on July 1, said he has rarely seen a community so passionate about its schools.

“I really felt it when I was going through the interview processes here. Just the pride. I could feel the purple passion coming through. It just kept drawing me in more and more,” he said. “My mission, which is service to others, I felt like I could really bring that here and help Burlington.”&nbsp;

A Davenport native, Scott has spent most of his life in the Quad Cities area. He’s also a big sports guy and remembers playing Little League baseball in Burlington as part of the away team.

“I played on these ball fields when I was a kid at Central High School. All three of my kids have played on these ball fields,” he said.

Scott joined the U.S. Army for two years after high school and was stationed in Germany, before attending St. Ambrose College and graduating from the University of Iowa. He’s been married to his high school sweetheart for over 30 years, and their three children have already flown the nest.

“My son is a pharmacist; my middle child, she just graduated with her master’s degree and will be teaching elementary; and my youngest is a freshman in college right now,” he said.

Starting out his teaching and coaching career in the suburbs of Chicago, Scott soon moved back to the Davenport School District, where he served as an associate principal for four years. He went on to serve as associate superintendent for another eight years.

“During those eight years, the majority of my time was spent at the secondary level,” he said. “I had four high schools I oversaw, one of those being an alternative high school; five middle schools, and two of those were K through 8.”

Scott was just in his first year as the director of athletics and activities for Centennial High School in Ankeny when the superintendent job in Burlington opened. He couldn’t resist applying.

“It was just too good of a job to pass up. I was looking for a one-high-school district,” he said. “I’m going to have a lot of fun here.”

Scott is hoping the rest of the staff and students will, too.&nbsp;

As an administrator who rose through the ranks as a coach and teacher, Scott said he has a proven history of being pro-teacher.

“I continue to think like a teacher. I was vice president of the teacher’s union when I was a teacher. I know what it’s like to sit on the other side, and I can think, ‘How does this impact teachers?’ when I’m making a decision. That’s one of my strengths,” he said.&nbsp;

“At the end of the day, I have to ask, ‘Is it the right thing for kids?’ I want to have the smartest people in the district around me.”&nbsp;

Like most school administrators across Iowa and the rest of the country, Scott has two huge challenges ahead of him: helping the district recover from the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and working around the current teacher shortage.

“We have to get kids caught back up from the academic loss they had. We do have monies available, but teachers have been working really hard, and it’s been stressful for teachers,” he said.&nbsp;

“One of the benefits of COVID has been our acknowledgment of how online learning can be successful for some kids. For some kids, it’s been a great thing.”&nbsp;

In the end, though, numbers are just numbers. Scott is looking forward to the practical, hands-on work that connects a student’s education to the community around them.&nbsp;

A reason to graduate beyond just a letter grade and a pat on the back.

Scott likes to call that transition between student life and adult life “the 13th grade.”

“I talk a lot about the 13th grade. I’m trying to work with our administrative team on what’s next for our kids. It could be two-year college, four-year college, the military, going right into the workforce,” he said.

That’s why Scott puts such an emphasis on extracurricular activities. For many students, it’s the first conduit to the world outside of their own.

“Kids being involved in at least one activity has always been a mission of mine. It could be the chess club, the band. It could be a sports team,” he said.&nbsp;

When Scott takes over the superintendent job on July 1, he wants everyone to know him.&nbsp;

More importantly, he wants everyone to be able to find him and talk to him about anything.

“I really want people to know that I’m here to serve them. I’m here to serve the school board, I’m here to serve the teachers and the parents, and the students and staff. I want them to hear that over and over from me,” he said.&nbsp;

“And I want to be accessible. It’s one of the things I’ve always been in my career. I enjoy meeting with people.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1649706122232.jpeg" alt="Robert Scott will begin his tenure as superintendent for the Burlington Community School District on July 1, 2022. Submitted photo." />
 <figcaption>Robert Scott will begin his tenure as superintendent for the Burlington Community School District on July 1, 2022. Submitted photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By William Smith Community EditorRobert Scott, future Burlington Community School District superintendent, was in Burlington this past weekend, to get a feel for the community while meeting with local leaders and attending a school board meeting.One thing was obvious to him. Burlington bleeds purple and gray. And now, so does he.Scott, who takes over for retiring BCSD Superintendent Pat Coen on July 1, said he has rarely seen a community so passionate about its schools.“I really felt it when I was going through the interview processes here. Just the pride. I could feel the purple passion coming through. It just kept drawing me in more and more,” he said. “My mission, which is service to others, I felt like I could really bring that here and help Burlington.”&nbsp;A Davenport native, Scott has spent most of his life in the Quad Cities area. He’s also a big sports guy and remembers playing Little League baseball in Burlington as part of the away team.“I played on these ball fields when I was a kid at Central High School. All three of my kids have played on these ball fields,” he said.Scott joined the U.S. Army for two years after high school and was stationed in Germany, before attending St. Ambrose College and graduating from the University of Iowa. He’s been married to his high school sweetheart for over 30 years, and their three children have already flown the nest.“My son is a pharmacist; my middle child, she just graduated with her master’s degree and will be teaching elementary; and my youngest is a freshman in college right now,” he said.Starting out his teaching and coaching career in the suburbs of Chicago, Scott soon moved back to the Davenport School District, where he served as an associate principal for four years. He went on to serve as associate superintendent for another eight years.“During those eight years, the majority of my time was spent at the secondary level,” he said. “I had four high schools I oversaw, one of those being an alternative high school; five middle schools, and two of those were K through 8.”Scott was just in his first year as the director of athletics and activities for Centennial High School in Ankeny when the superintendent job in Burlington opened. He couldn’t resist applying.“It was just too good of a job to pass up. I was looking for a one-high-school district,” he said. “I’m going to have a lot of fun here.”Scott is hoping the rest of the staff and students will, too.&nbsp;As an administrator who rose through the ranks as a coach and teacher, Scott said he has a proven history of being pro-teacher.“I continue to think like a teacher. I was vice president of the teacher’s union when I was a teacher. I know what it’s like to sit on the other side, and I can think, ‘How does this impact teachers?’ when I’m making a decision. That’s one of my strengths,” he said.&nbsp;“At the end of the day, I have to ask, ‘Is it the right thing for kids?’ I want to have the smartest people in the district around me.”&nbsp;Like most school administrators across Iowa and the rest of the country, Scott has two huge challenges ahead of him: helping the district recover from the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and working around the current teacher shortage.“We have to get kids caught back up from the academic loss they had. We do have monies available, but teachers have been working really hard, and it’s been stressful for teachers,” he said.&nbsp;“One of the benefits of COVID has been our acknowledgment of how online learning can be successful for some kids. For some kids, it’s been a great thing.”&nbsp;In the end, though, numbers are just numbers. Scott is looking forward to the practical, hands-on work that connects a student’s education to the community around them.&nbsp;A reason to graduate beyond just a letter grade and a pat on the back.Scott likes to call that transition between student life and adult life “the 13th grade.”“I talk a lot about the 13th grade. I’m trying to work with our administrative team on what’s next for our kids. It could be two-year college, four-year college, the military, going right into the workforce,” he said.That’s why Scott puts such an emphasis on extracurricular activities. For many students, it’s the first conduit to the world outside of their own.“Kids being involved in at least one activity has always been a mission of mine. It could be the chess club, the band. It could be a sports team,” he said.&nbsp;“I just want to see them connected.”When Scott takes over the superintendent job on July 1, he wants everyone to know him.&nbsp;More importantly, he wants everyone to be able to find him and talk to him about anything.“I really want people to know that I’m here to serve them. I’m here to serve the school board, I’m here to serve the teachers and the parents, and the students and staff. I want them to hear that over and over from me,” he said.&nbsp;“And I want to be accessible. It’s one of the things I’ve always been in my career. I enjoy meeting with people.”

Incoming BCSD superintendent cites track record of service and accessibility 

Des Moines County Conservation invites the public to celebrate the completion of the reconstructed boat ramp at Big Hollow Lake with a ribbon cutting ceremony on site at noon this Friday, April 8.&nbsp;

The project was made possible by private donations which provided the match for a marine fuel tax grant awarded by the state. The rebuilt ramp is less steep than the original. Visitor complaints and public input identified the need to improve the ramp's grade and the project was made a priority in the recent park master plan which outlines goals for many other future park improvements, many of which focus on accessibility. Future improvements at the boat ramp site will include an ADA-accessible walkway from the parking area to the bottom of the ramp, new boat docks, and additional paving at the boat ramp area and throughout the park.&nbsp;

"This is just the first of many improvements coming to this park," said Chris Lee, conservation department Executive Director. "With the incredible support of this community, Big Hollow really will become a world-class park."

The department is waiting on the decisions on two separate grant applications submitted this spring. And a capital campaign team recently formed to raise additional funds which are often used to leverage grants, much like was done for the boat ramp. If received, the pending grants will allow for the addition of 18 additional RV campsites, paving of the existing RV sites, and adding paved walkways at the beach as well as at the fishing jetty and kayak launch below the campground.&nbsp;

Big Hollow Lake is an immensely popular fishing destination, attracting thousands of residents and visitors to the county park three miles west of Sperry every year. It's not uncommon for dozens of trucks and trailers to line the parking area on any given Saturday throughout the summer. The reconstructed ramp will make accessing the lake a bit easier for anglers and recreational boaters alike.

"An improved boat ramp is something a lot of people have asked for over the years and we're happy to offer it just as the spring fishing and boating season kicks off," said Lee.

While the ramp is currently open and available to use, some site work still needs to be finished. The ribbon-cutting ceremony at noon on Friday will mark the official completion of the project. Boaters and anglers are encouraged to bring their boats and fishing poles to include in promotional photos.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://www.desmoinescounty.iowa.gov/ImageRepository/Document?documentID=3656" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Des Moines County Conservation invites the public to celebrate the completion of the reconstructed boat ramp at Big Hollow Lake with a ribbon cutting ceremony on site at noon this Friday, April 8.&nbsp;The project was made possible by private donations which provided the match for a marine fuel tax grant awarded by the state. The rebuilt ramp is less steep than the original. Visitor complaints and public input identified the need to improve the ramp's grade and the project was made a priority in the recent park master plan which outlines goals for many other future park improvements, many of which focus on accessibility. Future improvements at the boat ramp site will include an ADA-accessible walkway from the parking area to the bottom of the ramp, new boat docks, and additional paving at the boat ramp area and throughout the park.&nbsp;"This is just the first of many improvements coming to this park," said Chris Lee, conservation department Executive Director. "With the incredible support of this community, Big Hollow really will become a world-class park."The department is waiting on the decisions on two separate grant applications submitted this spring. And a capital campaign team recently formed to raise additional funds which are often used to leverage grants, much like was done for the boat ramp. If received, the pending grants will allow for the addition of 18 additional RV campsites, paving of the existing RV sites, and adding paved walkways at the beach as well as at the fishing jetty and kayak launch below the campground.&nbsp;Big Hollow Lake is an immensely popular fishing destination, attracting thousands of residents and visitors to the county park three miles west of Sperry every year. It's not uncommon for dozens of trucks and trailers to line the parking area on any given Saturday throughout the summer. The reconstructed ramp will make accessing the lake a bit easier for anglers and recreational boaters alike."An improved boat ramp is something a lot of people have asked for over the years and we're happy to offer it just as the spring fishing and boating season kicks off," said Lee.While the ramp is currently open and available to use, some site work still needs to be finished. The ribbon-cutting ceremony at noon on Friday will mark the official completion of the project. Boaters and anglers are encouraged to bring their boats and fishing poles to include in promotional photos.&nbsp;

Big Hollow Boat Ramp Grand Reopening

He had to take it home in pieces. When Detroit, Mich., resident Dan Robar and his son, Jackson Robar, showed up at the Preservation Station on Valley Street Friday, March 25, they knew the colonnade and attached arch inside the building wouldn’t fit into their rented U-Haul. So they started taking it apart, piece by piece. Heritage Trust President Ray Delmege and fellow volunteers were there to help. “This is not the largest individual sale we’ve made, but it is the largest piece we’ve sold,” Delmege said. Robar purchased the piece, which includes a cabinet with glass doors, for $7,800. He has renovated a couple of houses over the past couple of years and happened across the colonnade on Facebook. He's currently working on another house, built in 1930. “It’s almost like it was made for it. The right dimensions and everything,” Robar said. “The glass on it is fantastic. That really sealed the deal.” Like almost every item in the Preservation Station – which is filled with the best salvaged material from demolished houses in the area – the colonnade has a history to it. “It came from Carl A. Nelson’s house,” Delmege said. “It’s not the one he grew up in. It was built in the 1940s, I believe. It had been vacant for several years, and the company wanted to use the lot it was on. They gave us the right to go in and salvage whatever we could take out of it, which we did. The fire department used the house as a training exercise to burn it.”&nbsp; Heritage Trust, which runs the Preservation Station, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the preservation and restoration of Burlington. To acquire items, members of the Heritage Trust negotiate access to a house or building scheduled for demolition. They then show up wielding hammers and pry bars to salvage useful nonstructural building components prior to demolition, which are then resold at Preservation Station. All of the proceeds are earmarked for grants and loans to help preserve and restore historic homes and buildings in the area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1649203283975.jpeg" alt="Photo by William Smith" />
 <figcaption>Photo by William Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>He had to take it home in pieces. When Detroit, Mich., resident Dan Robar and his son, Jackson Robar, showed up at the Preservation Station on Valley Street Friday, March 25, they knew the colonnade and attached arch inside the building wouldn’t fit into their rented U-Haul. So they started taking it apart, piece by piece. Heritage Trust President Ray Delmege and fellow volunteers were there to help. “This is not the largest individual sale we’ve made, but it is the largest piece we’ve sold,” Delmege said. Robar purchased the piece, which includes a cabinet with glass doors, for $7,800. He has renovated a couple of houses over the past couple of years and happened across the colonnade on Facebook. He's currently working on another house, built in 1930. “It’s almost like it was made for it. The right dimensions and everything,” Robar said. “The glass on it is fantastic. That really sealed the deal.” Like almost every item in the Preservation Station – which is filled with the best salvaged material from demolished houses in the area – the colonnade has a history to it. “It came from Carl A. Nelson’s house,” Delmege said. “It’s not the one he grew up in. It was built in the 1940s, I believe. It had been vacant for several years, and the company wanted to use the lot it was on. They gave us the right to go in and salvage whatever we could take out of it, which we did. The fire department used the house as a training exercise to burn it.”&nbsp; Heritage Trust, which runs the Preservation Station, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the preservation and restoration of Burlington. To acquire items, members of the Heritage Trust negotiate access to a house or building scheduled for demolition. They then show up wielding hammers and pry bars to salvage useful nonstructural building components prior to demolition, which are then resold at Preservation Station. All of the proceeds are earmarked for grants and loans to help preserve and restore historic homes and buildings in the area.

Historic Sale For The Preservation Station

Speaking with a distinguished southern drawl folded over a baritone voice, Sid Champion is more than a Civil War historian.&nbsp;A Mississippi native and resident, he’s directly descended from the Confederate side of the Civil War history.

“I’m looking for the busted knuckles version of history. Not the embellished history,” he said.&nbsp;“The right side won the war.”

Champion spoke on March 10 at Messiah Lutheran Church on invitation from the Southeast Iowa Civil War Round Table. Indulging in a private Civil War-themed potluck with the round table before the presentation, Champion spoke about his family history.

“I’ve been doing this (Civil War presentations) for about 17 or 18 years, and I did private tours of the land. I’ve also been doing multiple tours every year for military outfits,” he said.

The great-great-grandson of Sid and Matilda Champion, he still lives near the land they settled in 1853 in Mississippi.&nbsp;

He has a treasure trove of Civil War letters written between his great-great-grandparents, portraying a couple caught up in the ravages of war.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I see him (Sid) as a man who gave his all for his country as he saw it, and was sorely disillusioned, even though he still believed in the cause,” he said.

When the Civil War erupted in 1861, Sid, 38, joined the 28th Mississippi Cavalry and left for Vicksburg to participate in the war.&nbsp;

For the first time since their marriage, Matilda was left alone with four young children to care for and 65 enslaved people to manage.&nbsp;

With the help of the overseer, operations continued as usual until May 16, 1863.&nbsp;That is when the war came to Champion Hill.&nbsp;The Champion house was taken over and used as a Union hospital.&nbsp;

From that point on, Matilda’s life would never be the same.

Ironically enough, the original Sid Champion was not at the Battle of Champion Hill.

“He was close by the battle, and went back to Vicksburg for the siege,” Champion said.

Sid remained in Vicksburg with the 28th Mississippi Cavalry. Matilda and the children returned to Brae Mar to live with her parents.&nbsp;Soon after the fall of Vicksburg, she learned that her house had been burned as General Sherman and his men marched back to Jackson.

Matilda, now homeless, took the children to Rankin County, where Sid purchased property to be used as a refuge.&nbsp;Sid remained in the Confederate army from 1862 to 1865. Matilda and the children scraped out a miserable existence in Rankin County.&nbsp;

In May 1865, after three long years of war, Sid was mustered out of the army and returned to his wife and children.&nbsp;They sold the Rankin County property and returned to Midway Station, now known as Champion Hill, to start over again.

“He (Sid Champion) died in 1868 of what sounded like lead poisoning, leaving Matilda to raise four children,” Champion said, noting that Matilda held onto the land and became a well-known, public figure locally.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1649109071606.jpeg" alt="Civil War historian Sid Champion conducts a presentation about his great-great-grandfather, also named Sid Champion, who fought in the Civil War. Photo by William Smith.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Civil War historian Sid Champion conducts a presentation about his great-great-grandfather, also named Sid Champion, who fought in the Civil War. Photo by William Smith.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Beacon StaffSpeaking with a distinguished southern drawl folded over a baritone voice, Sid Champion is more than a Civil War historian.&nbsp;A Mississippi native and resident, he’s directly descended from the Confederate side of the Civil War history.“I’m looking for the busted knuckles version of history. Not the embellished history,” he said.&nbsp;“The right side won the war.”Champion spoke on March 10 at Messiah Lutheran Church on invitation from the Southeast Iowa Civil War Round Table. Indulging in a private Civil War-themed potluck with the round table before the presentation, Champion spoke about his family history.“I’ve been doing this (Civil War presentations) for about 17 or 18 years, and I did private tours of the land. I’ve also been doing multiple tours every year for military outfits,” he said.The great-great-grandson of Sid and Matilda Champion, he still lives near the land they settled in 1853 in Mississippi.&nbsp;He has a treasure trove of Civil War letters written between his great-great-grandparents, portraying a couple caught up in the ravages of war.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I see him (Sid) as a man who gave his all for his country as he saw it, and was sorely disillusioned, even though he still believed in the cause,” he said.When the Civil War erupted in 1861, Sid, 38, joined the 28th Mississippi Cavalry and left for Vicksburg to participate in the war.&nbsp;For the first time since their marriage, Matilda was left alone with four young children to care for and 65 enslaved people to manage.&nbsp;With the help of the overseer, operations continued as usual until May 16, 1863.&nbsp;That is when the war came to Champion Hill.&nbsp;The Champion house was taken over and used as a Union hospital.&nbsp;From that point on, Matilda’s life would never be the same.Ironically enough, the original Sid Champion was not at the Battle of Champion Hill.“He was close by the battle, and went back to Vicksburg for the siege,” Champion said.Sid remained in Vicksburg with the 28th Mississippi Cavalry. Matilda and the children returned to Brae Mar to live with her parents.&nbsp;Soon after the fall of Vicksburg, she learned that her house had been burned as General Sherman and his men marched back to Jackson.Matilda, now homeless, took the children to Rankin County, where Sid purchased property to be used as a refuge.&nbsp;Sid remained in the Confederate army from 1862 to 1865. Matilda and the children scraped out a miserable existence in Rankin County.&nbsp;In May 1865, after three long years of war, Sid was mustered out of the army and returned to his wife and children.&nbsp;They sold the Rankin County property and returned to Midway Station, now known as Champion Hill, to start over again.“He (Sid Champion) died in 1868 of what sounded like lead poisoning, leaving Matilda to raise four children,” Champion said, noting that Matilda held onto the land and became a well-known, public figure locally.

Descendant Discusses Civil War Era

By William Smith Community Editor

For the parishioners of First United Methodist Church in Burlington, the Rev. Melanie Greengo’s perpetual smile has become a source of comfort.

The church’s previous pastor, Melisa Bracht-Wagner, died on March 14 at the age of 45.&nbsp;Greengo was assigned to start at the church in February by the Council of Bishops and has already made her home at the parsonage.

“Normally, us Methodists move in July,” Greengo said, noting that she was brought in after the council briefly considered an interim pastor.

Greengo moved to Burlington from Columbus Junction after serving as pastor for United Methodist churches in Columbus Junction and Columbus City.&nbsp;But she hails from much farther north: all the way in southern Minnesota, near the city of Albert Lea. Greengo grew up on a hobby farm full of pigs, sheep, and chickens.&nbsp;

“All of my family is still up in that area. I’ve kind of been the wanderer. I married a Navy man after I got my nursing degree,” she said, noting that she and her husband later divorced.&nbsp;

“We had a couple of kids, lived in Hawaii, Washington state, and Virginia.”

Greengo and her family moved to Iowa in 2007 after her ex-husband retired, and it was there she began to rediscover her faith.

“I grew up Christian Reformed (a Protestant Christian denomination),” she said.&nbsp;

“I had been out of the church since I was 18, so probably 10 or 15 years. The church I grew up in was very fire and brimstone, ‘you’re going to hell’ kind of preaching. It never felt like that was very helpful.”

Despite her initial disconnect from the church, Greengo wanted her children to grow up with faith. They visited four or five churches until they found the right one in Osage.

“We sat down in the pew, and my youngest looked at me, and she said, ‘This is the one.’ ”&nbsp;

To which Greengo replied: “It is, I think.”

So Greengo started getting more involved.&nbsp;She joined the personnel committee and taught Sunday school.

Finally, Greengo entered a school for lay ministry. But even that wasn’t enough to satisfy her calling for religion, which had returned stronger than ever.

“I did a year of it, and I realized I wanted way more than that. So, we packed up the family, and we went to seminary at the United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities,” she said.&nbsp;

“That was a big jump, and I still didn’t know what I was going to do with that. I didn’t see myself as a pastor yet.”&nbsp;

But her path was already laid before her. Though Greengo never imagined she would become a pastor, looking back, her passion for religion manifested at a young age. She had just never seen it quite so clearly before.

“I went to a very conservative church growing up, and I went to catechism every Wednesday night for four years through high school,” she said. “I remember arguing with the pastor specifically about some verses in Second Timothy and women as pastors and the head of the church.”

The passion and intellectual mind for theology were already there. But after four years of seminary, one thing was still missing for Greengo: a knack for public speaking.

“I was petrified of speaking in public,” Greengo said.

So, the pastor at the Methodist church Greengo attended in Osage gave her a simple job, to help with Ash Wednesday.

“She didn’t need help. I learned that later,” Greengo said with a laugh.

Eventually, Greengo became comfortable with speaking in front of people, even though she’s still a natural introvert.

“It’s not as terrifying anymore,” she said. “I can eat breakfast on Sundays now.”

As the new pastor of First UMC, Greengo has two goals right now: absorb the history and culture of the church and help the congregation heal.

“They (the congregation) have been wonderful. There’s a lot of grief for them and a lot going on right now. They have still gone a long way to make me feel welcome,” she said. “The staff has been great.”

Greengo is also a spiritual director and is delighted by the working relationship with the Building Bridges program, which has office space at The Loft (an event space also run by the church).&nbsp;

Building Bridges is a charity program designed to lift people out of poverty by giving them the resources and knowledge to do it themselves.

As a former hospice worker, Greengo isn’t afraid of tough, emotional issues. She cherishes the opportunity to help people through tough times.

“That’s what I love about this job, too,” she said.&nbsp;

“I celebrate people’s lives through baptisms and weddings, but I also get the benefit of sitting with people through the hard stuff. I’ve always said it was an honor to sit with people in hospice and be that reminder that God is in the room.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1649086839768.jpeg" alt="The Rev. Melanie Greengo is the new pastor at First United Methodist Church in Burlington. The previous pastor, the Rev. Melisa Bracht-Wagner, died on March 14, 2022. Photo by William Smith" />
 <figcaption>The Rev. Melanie Greengo is the new pastor at First United Methodist Church in Burlington. The previous pastor, the Rev. Melisa Bracht-Wagner, died on March 14, 2022. Photo by William Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>By William Smith Community EditorFor the parishioners of First United Methodist Church in Burlington, the Rev. Melanie Greengo’s perpetual smile has become a source of comfort.The church’s previous pastor, Melisa Bracht-Wagner, died on March 14 at the age of 45.&nbsp;Greengo was assigned to start at the church in February by the Council of Bishops and has already made her home at the parsonage.“Normally, us Methodists move in July,” Greengo said, noting that she was brought in after the council briefly considered an interim pastor.Greengo moved to Burlington from Columbus Junction after serving as pastor for United Methodist churches in Columbus Junction and Columbus City.&nbsp;But she hails from much farther north: all the way in southern Minnesota, near the city of Albert Lea. Greengo grew up on a hobby farm full of pigs, sheep, and chickens.&nbsp;“All of my family is still up in that area. I’ve kind of been the wanderer. I married a Navy man after I got my nursing degree,” she said, noting that she and her husband later divorced.&nbsp;“We had a couple of kids, lived in Hawaii, Washington state, and Virginia.”Greengo and her family moved to Iowa in 2007 after her ex-husband retired, and it was there she began to rediscover her faith.“I grew up Christian Reformed (a Protestant Christian denomination),” she said.&nbsp;“I had been out of the church since I was 18, so probably 10 or 15 years. The church I grew up in was very fire and brimstone, ‘you’re going to hell’ kind of preaching. It never felt like that was very helpful.”Despite her initial disconnect from the church, Greengo wanted her children to grow up with faith. They visited four or five churches until they found the right one in Osage.“We sat down in the pew, and my youngest looked at me, and she said, ‘This is the one.’ ”&nbsp;To which Greengo replied: “It is, I think.”So Greengo started getting more involved.&nbsp;She joined the personnel committee and taught Sunday school.Finally, Greengo entered a school for lay ministry. But even that wasn’t enough to satisfy her calling for religion, which had returned stronger than ever.“I did a year of it, and I realized I wanted way more than that. So, we packed up the family, and we went to seminary at the United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities,” she said.&nbsp;“That was a big jump, and I still didn’t know what I was going to do with that. I didn’t see myself as a pastor yet.”&nbsp;But her path was already laid before her. Though Greengo never imagined she would become a pastor, looking back, her passion for religion manifested at a young age. She had just never seen it quite so clearly before.“I went to a very conservative church growing up, and I went to catechism every Wednesday night for four years through high school,” she said. “I remember arguing with the pastor specifically about some verses in Second Timothy and women as pastors and the head of the church.”The passion and intellectual mind for theology were already there. But after four years of seminary, one thing was still missing for Greengo: a knack for public speaking.“I was petrified of speaking in public,” Greengo said.So, the pastor at the Methodist church Greengo attended in Osage gave her a simple job, to help with Ash Wednesday.“She didn’t need help. I learned that later,” Greengo said with a laugh.Eventually, Greengo became comfortable with speaking in front of people, even though she’s still a natural introvert.“It’s not as terrifying anymore,” she said. “I can eat breakfast on Sundays now.”As the new pastor of First UMC, Greengo has two goals right now: absorb the history and culture of the church and help the congregation heal.“They (the congregation) have been wonderful. There’s a lot of grief for them and a lot going on right now. They have still gone a long way to make me feel welcome,” she said. “The staff has been great.”Greengo is also a spiritual director and is delighted by the working relationship with the Building Bridges program, which has office space at The Loft (an event space also run by the church).&nbsp;Building Bridges is a charity program designed to lift people out of poverty by giving them the resources and knowledge to do it themselves.As a former hospice worker, Greengo isn’t afraid of tough, emotional issues. She cherishes the opportunity to help people through tough times.“That’s what I love about this job, too,” she said.&nbsp;“I celebrate people’s lives through baptisms and weddings, but I also get the benefit of sitting with people through the hard stuff. I’ve always said it was an honor to sit with people in hospice and be that reminder that God is in the room.”

Greengo Shepherds Grieving Congregation

By Beacon Staff David Keane, former Burlington High School principal, has been selected to become the curriculum and instruction director for the West Burlington Independent School District.&nbsp; Keane is listed for the position under the personnel agenda item for the West Burlington school board meeting scheduled for Monday, April 4. If approved by the board, he would start the job July 1. The salary for the position is yet to be determined.&nbsp; In October 2021, Keane was replaced at BHS by interim principal Monica Meyers. The curriculum and instruction director is a newly-created position for the West Burlington School District. At the Feb. 21 school board meeting, West Burlington superintendent Lisa Beames put forth a request for the new position. After being tabled, the motion for the new position passed 3-2 during a special school board meeting on March 7. Beames&nbsp;cited the fact that the school district hasn't added a new administrator since 2002, and since that time, enrollment has increased by 190 students and staffing by 12 teachers and nine paraeducators. Funding for the position will come from TLC and general fund dollars.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1649034936555.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Beacon Staff David Keane, former Burlington High School principal, has been selected to become the curriculum and instruction director for the West Burlington Independent School District.&nbsp; Keane is listed for the position under the personnel agenda item for the West Burlington school board meeting scheduled for Monday, April 4. If approved by the board, he would start the job July 1. The salary for the position is yet to be determined.&nbsp; In October 2021, Keane was replaced at BHS by interim principal Monica Meyers. The curriculum and instruction director is a newly-created position for the West Burlington School District. At the Feb. 21 school board meeting, West Burlington superintendent Lisa Beames put forth a request for the new position. After being tabled, the motion for the new position passed 3-2 during a special school board meeting on March 7. Beames&nbsp;cited the fact that the school district hasn't added a new administrator since 2002, and since that time, enrollment has increased by 190 students and staffing by 12 teachers and nine paraeducators. Funding for the position will come from TLC and general fund dollars.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former BHS Principal Up for Curriculum and Instruction Director at WB

Ed and Rose Lacsa started living the American Dream a few weeks earlier than anticipated.

For the past several months, the couple has transformed the building at 3136 Sunnyside Ave. (at the corner of Roosevelt Avenue) into an Asian grocery store — aptly titled Midwest Asian Variety Store.

Two weeks ago, Ed and Rose opened the doors for a soft launch. They had planned to open later, but demand grew as word about the store leaked.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1649032619997.jpeg" alt="Ed &amp; Rose Lacsa recently opened Midwest Asian Variety store at the corner of Sunnyside and Roosevelt. Photo by William Smith" />
 <figcaption>Ed &amp; Rose Lacsa recently opened Midwest Asian Variety store at the corner of Sunnyside and Roosevelt. Photo by William Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>By Beacon StaffEd and Rose Lacsa started living the American Dream a few weeks earlier than anticipated.For the past several months, the couple has transformed the building at 3136 Sunnyside Ave. (at the corner of Roosevelt Avenue) into an Asian grocery store — aptly titled Midwest Asian Variety Store.Two weeks ago, Ed and Rose opened the doors for a soft launch. They had planned to open later, but demand grew as word about the store leaked.“People kept asking us, ‘When are you going to open? So we opened,’ ” Ed said.The shelves are full of Asian grocery items that can be hard to find in more rural areas. The couple said their stock will be expanded over the coming weeks. However, many staples of Asian cuisine are already in stock.“First of all, people like rice. Rice is very important for Asians instead of bread,” Ed said. “And we have Asian delicacies.”Journey to Iowa<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1649033218121.jpeg" alt="Photo by William Smith" />
 <figcaption>Photo by William Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>Ed and Rose married 35 years ago and moved to the U.S. from their home in Singapore around 2000. They are originally from the Philippines. Ed took a job at a company in Arkansas and moved his family to America.Soon after moving to Arkansas, Ed and Rose began looking toward Iowa. They moved to Burlington four years after arriving in Arkansas, fully aware of how uncomfortable the winters could be further north.“I wanted my children to attend Iowa schools,” Ed said.Ed had been hearing Americans laud the value of Iowa schools ever since he arrived, and his research into the schools only proved their point. He found an engineering job in Mount Pleasant, and in 2009, he and Rose briefly tried opening an Asian grocery store.“When the kids were young, we tried something like this, but we abruptly stopped because we’re so busy,” Ed said.Ed still works as a structural design engineer in Mount Pleasant. Rose lost her job at The Great Wall restaurant when it permanently closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was the perfect opportunity to try again.“We wanted to adapt to the American traditions, the American way of living. And I think we did. Or we would have gone back,” Ed said with a laugh."Aside from an expanded grocery inventory, the couple hopes to offer “to-go” food bowls and quick bite items like egg rolls and rice balls.“We have to install some kitchen equipment first,” Ed said.For now, the couple is telling all their customers the same thing — if they can’t find it in the store, they can order it for them.“We buy most of our items wholesale in Chicago,” Ed said.The service itself is all local, he said, adding: “We really like it here.”Store Hours• Monday: Closed• Tuesday-Friday: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.• Saturday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.• Sunday: 9 a.m. - noon

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