Tracey Lamm for The Beacon

Cheryl Plank believes the one thing that is preventing Hope Haven from growing as an organization is a lack of individuals to fill the many open positions available at the direct care provider of services to individuals with developmental disabilities.

Plank, who became Executive Director of Hope Haven following the retirement of Bob Bartles in January, thinks the thing that inspired her to devote her professional career to this particular field, might be the answer for Hope Haven. 

“My older sister worked in a nursing home when I was a teenager and I used to go to work with her and read to the residents. I really think that is probably what got me hooked,” Plank said.&nbsp;

Plank comes to Hope Haven after 36 years in the direct care services field. 

“I have known Bob (Bartles) for many years. We served on the IACP Foundation board (Iowa Association of Community Providers). What big shoes to come in and fill,” Plank said. 

She began her career in Muscatine and has held various positions over the years, most recently back in Muscatine assisting several community non-profit organizations with sustainability. 

“I really thought I was at my final position there,” Plank said. However, during a meeting with Bartles he revealed he would be retiring, and it sparked her interest in taking over at Hope Haven. “I love it here. Burlington has been so welcoming,” Plank said.&nbsp;

Hope Haven is respected across Iowa and is known nationally as a premier organization. 

“I want to maintain and sustain what Bob started here. We could grow, but we can’t find staff to fill the positions we currently have open,” Plank added.

Recruiting and maintaining current staff is a priority for Plank. She is seeking an individual to hire as a recruiter that will be in charge of hiring and training Hope Haven staff. 

“That is unheard of for an agency like ours,” Plank said. 

But, she feels that it is necessary in order to maintain current staff and to acquire the most appropriate individuals for current open positions with Hope Haven.

Paying competitive wages will also help as Hope Haven works to fill open positions. Additional funding from COVID-19 recovery money has helped Hope Haven increase wages. 

“But we have to work to maintain that once those funds are no longer available,” Plank said.&nbsp;

Hope Haven staff provides care and training to individuals with developmental disabilities who live in a group home setting with some independence. Job training services are also a premiere Hope Haven service. 

Many local companies and businesses have Hope Haven trained staff filling positions on site. Hope Haven also operates an aluminum can redemption center. 

Plank said it is unusual for service providers like Hope Haven to provide this type of service because of the costs to operate and the inability of those types of businesses to operate without losing money.

And while Hope Haven is a business that must maintain facilities and provide payroll, its largest asset is human capital. Plank said not just anyone can do the jobs available at Hope Haven. 

“We are dealing with people and it takes a certain kind of person to fill these roles,” Plank said. 

That is why early exposure to Hope Haven and the clients who receive services there is an important part of job recruiting for the future.

In the meantime, Plank said she plans to find areas of current operations where efficiencies can be realized and where current employees can be used differently to continue to serve clients adequately. 

“We may need to house more people in one home and job coaching may be a coach for three to four clients instead of one on one,” Plank said.

“I love my work. It is part of who I am,” Plank said. “My personal mission statement is to use my abilities to serve, support, and peace and understanding through compassionate action. Everything I do needs to fit my mission,” Plank added.

When not working, Plank and her husband bicycle, hike, and walk. Her two sons and eight grandchildren live in Iowa, and they all spend a lot of time together on 18 acres near Eddyville.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/5/1651621964412.jpeg" alt="Cheryl Plank became executive director of Hope Haven following the retirement of Bob Bartles in January. (Tracey Lamm/for The Beacon)" />
 <figcaption>Cheryl Plank became executive director of Hope Haven following the retirement of Bob Bartles in January. (Tracey Lamm/for The Beacon)</figcaption>
 </figure>Tracey Lamm for The BeaconCheryl Plank believes the one thing that is preventing Hope Haven from growing as an organization is a lack of individuals to fill the many open positions available at the direct care provider of services to individuals with developmental disabilities.Plank, who became Executive Director of Hope Haven following the retirement of Bob Bartles in January, thinks the thing that inspired her to devote her professional career to this particular field, might be the answer for Hope Haven. “My older sister worked in a nursing home when I was a teenager and I used to go to work with her and read to the residents. I really think that is probably what got me hooked,” Plank said.&nbsp;Plank comes to Hope Haven after 36 years in the direct care services field. “I have known Bob (Bartles) for many years. We served on the IACP Foundation board (Iowa Association of Community Providers). What big shoes to come in and fill,” Plank said. She began her career in Muscatine and has held various positions over the years, most recently back in Muscatine assisting several community non-profit organizations with sustainability. “I really thought I was at my final position there,” Plank said. However, during a meeting with Bartles he revealed he would be retiring, and it sparked her interest in taking over at Hope Haven. “I love it here. Burlington has been so welcoming,” Plank said.&nbsp;Hope Haven is respected across Iowa and is known nationally as a premier organization. “I want to maintain and sustain what Bob started here. We could grow, but we can’t find staff to fill the positions we currently have open,” Plank added.Recruiting and maintaining current staff is a priority for Plank. She is seeking an individual to hire as a recruiter that will be in charge of hiring and training Hope Haven staff. “That is unheard of for an agency like ours,” Plank said. But, she feels that it is necessary in order to maintain current staff and to acquire the most appropriate individuals for current open positions with Hope Haven.Paying competitive wages will also help as Hope Haven works to fill open positions. Additional funding from COVID-19 recovery money has helped Hope Haven increase wages. “But we have to work to maintain that once those funds are no longer available,” Plank said.&nbsp;Hope Haven staff provides care and training to individuals with developmental disabilities who live in a group home setting with some independence. Job training services are also a premiere Hope Haven service. Many local companies and businesses have Hope Haven trained staff filling positions on site. Hope Haven also operates an aluminum can redemption center. Plank said it is unusual for service providers like Hope Haven to provide this type of service because of the costs to operate and the inability of those types of businesses to operate without losing money.And while Hope Haven is a business that must maintain facilities and provide payroll, its largest asset is human capital. Plank said not just anyone can do the jobs available at Hope Haven. “We are dealing with people and it takes a certain kind of person to fill these roles,” Plank said. That is why early exposure to Hope Haven and the clients who receive services there is an important part of job recruiting for the future.In the meantime, Plank said she plans to find areas of current operations where efficiencies can be realized and where current employees can be used differently to continue to serve clients adequately. “We may need to house more people in one home and job coaching may be a coach for three to four clients instead of one on one,” Plank said.“I love my work. It is part of who I am,” Plank said. “My personal mission statement is to use my abilities to serve, support, and peace and understanding through compassionate action. Everything I do needs to fit my mission,” Plank added.When not working, Plank and her husband bicycle, hike, and walk. Her two sons and eight grandchildren live in Iowa, and they all spend a lot of time together on 18 acres near Eddyville.

Plank Takes Top Job at Hope Haven

The IowaWORKS Burlington office will host the Southeast Iowa Jobs Fair on Thursday, May 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Westland Mall in West Burlington. The jobs fair will highlight the wide variety of career opportunities readily available in the area and will feature over 70 employers with
immediate job openings available. Registered is not required, and all area job seekers are encouraged to attend.

IowaWORKS is joined by&nbsp;several partners,
including Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Greater Burlington
Partnership, Lee County Economic Development, Mt. Pleasant Area Chamber
Alliance, Louisa County Economic Development Group, and Iowa National Guard.

“Whether you are looking for full-time, part-time, or seasonal
employment, we have opportunities for you,” said Carolyn Farley, Operations
Manager for the IowaWORKS Burlington office. “Participating businesses
from across Southeast Iowa will be in attendance and represent amazing
employment opportunities in the areas of healthcare, manufacturing, retail,
trades, logistics, and more!”

The IowaWORKS Burlington office will host the Southeast Iowa Jobs Fair on Thursday, May 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Westland Mall in West Burlington. The jobs fair will highlight the wide variety of career opportunities readily available in the area and will feature over 70 employers with
immediate job openings available. Registered is not required, and all area job seekers are encouraged to attend.IowaWORKS is joined by&nbsp;several partners,
including Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Greater Burlington
Partnership, Lee County Economic Development, Mt. Pleasant Area Chamber
Alliance, Louisa County Economic Development Group, and Iowa National Guard.“Whether you are looking for full-time, part-time, or seasonal
employment, we have opportunities for you,” said Carolyn Farley, Operations
Manager for the IowaWORKS Burlington office. “Participating businesses
from across Southeast Iowa will be in attendance and represent amazing
employment opportunities in the areas of healthcare, manufacturing, retail,
trades, logistics, and more!”

IowaWORKS to Host SE Iowa Jobs Fair

CNH Workers Could Strike; Current Contract Ends at Midnight Saturday

UAW Local 807 members passed a strike authorization earlier this month in the union's ongoing negotiations with CNH Industrial.

The union’s contract covering Case IH workers will expire at midnight Saturday, April 30. At that point, workers might go on strike, depending on the status of contract negotiations.

Representatives with UAW 807 and CNH Industrial declined to comment on the status of negotiations, though UAW did confirm that 97 percent of its members voted for the strike. The UAW posted the results to their Facebook page, which shows that 227 voted “yes,” and six voted “no.”

The current six-year labor agreement covers both the Burlington plants and Racine, Wis., covers about 1,100 hourly employees between the two facilities.

The Burlington facility has been manufacturing equipment since 1937.

CNH Workers Could Strike; Current Contract Ends at Midnight SaturdayBy Beacon StaffUAW Local 807 members passed a strike authorization earlier this month in the union's ongoing negotiations with CNH Industrial.The union’s contract covering Case IH workers will expire at midnight Saturday, April 30. At that point, workers might go on strike, depending on the status of contract negotiations.Representatives with UAW 807 and CNH Industrial declined to comment on the status of negotiations, though UAW did confirm that 97 percent of its members voted for the strike. The UAW posted the results to their Facebook page, which shows that 227 voted “yes,” and six voted “no.”The current six-year labor agreement covers both the Burlington plants and Racine, Wis., covers about 1,100 hourly employees between the two facilities.The Burlington facility has been manufacturing equipment since 1937.

CNH Workers' Contract Ends Saturday; Strike Possible

Supervisors Pass Budget Amendment, Read Letter Concerning Budget Cut for DMC Conservation

The Des Moines County Board of Supervisors passed a $3.083 million budget amendment for fiscal year 2022 Tuesday morning (April 26) that allocates an additional $64,000 to Des Moines County Conservation.

The biggest chunk of the money – $2.6 million – went to the secondary road department, mostly to cover projects that have crossed over into the 2022 fiscal year.

Conservation Board Sends Letter About Budget Cut

Des Monies County Conservation board members Jim Garnjobst, Bob Hansen, Julie Solinski, Matthew Haas and Cathy Ziglar signed a letter addressed to the board of supervisors that outlines the difficulties the department would be facing with a nearly 16 percent budget cut for fiscal year 2023.

Supervisor Jim Cary said the letter arrived earlier in the month, and he read it aloud at Tuesday’s meeting before the board approved the budget amendment. The conservation department asked for around $60,000 in the letter. The $64,000 approved with the amendment was for this this year’s budget, ending June 30, and not for the fiscal 2023 budget. 

“We are sending this letter to document the anticipated operational issues created by the board of supervisors’ decision to dramatically reduce the Des Moines County Conservation’s budget for the fiscal year 2022 and 2023,” the letter reads.

The letter included an explanation of how the budget cut would impact the department, and that explanation was also posted in the conservation department’s Spring newsletter. 

“Compared to the current year, we will be getting about $112,000 less from the tax base next year, a cut from $712,388 to a flat $600,000. That’s just shy of 16 percent less than the amount we’re currently operating on,” the letter reads.

According to the newsletter, Des Moines County Conservation manages 19 parks, nearly 2,000 acres, over 100 campsites and over 20 miles of trails. The department employs eight full time park and conservation professionals, two permanent part time employees, and usually four summer interns every year. The department also brings contracted work teams to complete various park projects throughout the county.

Annual park visitation numbers are well into six digits, according to the newsletter.

Supervisors Pass Budget Amendment, Read Letter Concerning Budget Cut for DMC ConservationBy Beacon StaffThe Des Moines County Board of Supervisors passed a $3.083 million budget amendment for fiscal year 2022 Tuesday morning (April 26) that allocates an additional $64,000 to Des Moines County Conservation.The biggest chunk of the money – $2.6 million – went to the secondary road department, mostly to cover projects that have crossed over into the 2022 fiscal year.Conservation Board Sends Letter About Budget CutDes Monies County Conservation board members Jim Garnjobst, Bob Hansen, Julie Solinski, Matthew Haas and Cathy Ziglar signed a letter addressed to the board of supervisors that outlines the difficulties the department would be facing with a nearly 16 percent budget cut for fiscal year 2023.Supervisor Jim Cary said the letter arrived earlier in the month, and he read it aloud at Tuesday’s meeting before the board approved the budget amendment. The conservation department asked for around $60,000 in the letter. The $64,000 approved with the amendment was for this this year’s budget, ending June 30, and not for the fiscal 2023 budget. “We are sending this letter to document the anticipated operational issues created by the board of supervisors’ decision to dramatically reduce the Des Moines County Conservation’s budget for the fiscal year 2022 and 2023,” the letter reads.The letter included an explanation of how the budget cut would impact the department, and that explanation was also posted in the conservation department’s Spring newsletter. “Compared to the current year, we will be getting about $112,000 less from the tax base next year, a cut from $712,388 to a flat $600,000. That’s just shy of 16 percent less than the amount we’re currently operating on,” the letter reads.According to the newsletter, Des Moines County Conservation manages 19 parks, nearly 2,000 acres, over 100 campsites and over 20 miles of trails. The department employs eight full time park and conservation professionals, two permanent part time employees, and usually four summer interns every year. The department also brings contracted work teams to complete various park projects throughout the county.Annual park visitation numbers are well into six digits, according to the newsletter.

DMC Supervisors Pass Budget Amendment

Six Appeal and the George Maurer Group are returning to Burlington to close Civic Music Association’s 2021-2022 season at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 29 at Burlington Memorial Auditorium, 200 N. Front St.

Beginning as a collegiate hobby in 2006 at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn., Six Appeal developed into a professional ensemble in 2010. In 2012, they won the National Harmony Sweepstakes Championships. The group traveled to Moscow where they won the grand prize at the world’s largest acapella competition in both 2018 and 2109.

Maurer’s versatility on the piano and keyboard lands him in all kinds of talented company. He arranges music for orchestras and plays the piano for the nationally touring Midtown Men, starred as the original lead of Broadway’s Tony Award-winning Jersey Boys, and performs with renowned orchestras like the Boston Pops. Maurer also interviews and accompanies fellow musicians in front of a live audience in his intimate “Stripped Down” series. In addition, he performs in rock band Collective Unconscious’s wildly popular tribute shows for The Band’s “The Last Waltz,” and the Beach Boys’ “Pet Sounds.”

Information for the upcoming 2022-2023 Civic Music Association season will be available at this performance. Patrons are encouraged to reserve their seats early. Burlington Civic Music season subscriptions are available by calling 319-752-0336. Single-show tickets ($35 adults/$10 students) may be purchased from 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays and the night of the show at Memorial Auditorium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1651167004275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Six Appeal and the George Maurer Group are returning to Burlington to close Civic Music Association’s 2021-2022 season at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 29 at Burlington Memorial Auditorium, 200 N. Front St.Beginning as a collegiate hobby in 2006 at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn., Six Appeal developed into a professional ensemble in 2010. In 2012, they won the National Harmony Sweepstakes Championships. The group traveled to Moscow where they won the grand prize at the world’s largest acapella competition in both 2018 and 2109.Maurer’s versatility on the piano and keyboard lands him in all kinds of talented company. He arranges music for orchestras and plays the piano for the nationally touring Midtown Men, starred as the original lead of Broadway’s Tony Award-winning Jersey Boys, and performs with renowned orchestras like the Boston Pops. Maurer also interviews and accompanies fellow musicians in front of a live audience in his intimate “Stripped Down” series. In addition, he performs in rock band Collective Unconscious’s wildly popular tribute shows for The Band’s “The Last Waltz,” and the Beach Boys’ “Pet Sounds.”Information for the upcoming 2022-2023 Civic Music Association season will be available at this performance. Patrons are encouraged to reserve their seats early. Burlington Civic Music season subscriptions are available by calling 319-752-0336. Single-show tickets ($35 adults/$10 students) may be purchased from 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays and the night of the show at Memorial Auditorium.

Six Appeal and the George Maurer Group to Close Out Civic Music Season, Next Season Lineup to be Announced

Bob Brueck and Blaul Lofts were recognized at
the recent Main Street Iowa Development Awards celebration held in Des Moines
on April 22. The honors were presented by Governor Kim Reynolds and Debi
Durham, executive director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA)
and Iowa Finance Authority.

Brueck, often referred to as “Mr. Downtown,” was
honored with a posthumous leadership award for his vision for preserving and
renovating buildings in downtown Burlington. Judy Shotwell Brueck accepted
the award on his behalf, and many family members were in attendance. 

The 2022 Main Street Iowa Development Award
for Best Large Housing Project went to the Blaul Lofts for the rehab of the
building at 116 N. Fifth St. This
year, 13 projects were selected to be recognized from the 76 competitive
nominations submitted.

In 1985, the Iowa Legislature adopted Main
Street America’s Four Point Approach® to district revitalization by
establishing Main Street Iowa within the agency that is now the IEDA. Since
then, local Main Street programs have made a significant impact on Iowa’s
economy, including 5,237 new businesses, 15,759 jobs, and more than 13,000
building projects totaling more than $2.4 billion in private investment.
Downtown Partners, Inc. has been an accredited Main Street Program since 1996.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/1/1642474160745.jpeg" alt="Bob Brueck dedicated the last 25 years of his professional life to the revitalization of downtown and saved the Port of Burlington from possible demolition. Brueck died Jan. 16, 2022.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Bob Brueck dedicated the last 25 years of his professional life to the revitalization of downtown and saved the Port of Burlington from possible demolition. Brueck died Jan. 16, 2022.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>by Beacon StaffBob Brueck and Blaul Lofts were recognized at
the recent Main Street Iowa Development Awards celebration held in Des Moines
on April 22. The honors were presented by Governor Kim Reynolds and Debi
Durham, executive director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA)
and Iowa Finance Authority.Brueck, often referred to as “Mr. Downtown,” was
honored with a posthumous leadership award for his vision for preserving and
renovating buildings in downtown Burlington. Judy Shotwell Brueck accepted
the award on his behalf, and many family members were in attendance. The 2022 Main Street Iowa Development Award
for Best Large Housing Project went to the Blaul Lofts for the rehab of the
building at 116 N. Fifth St. This
year, 13 projects were selected to be recognized from the 76 competitive
nominations submitted.In 1985, the Iowa Legislature adopted Main
Street America’s Four Point Approach® to district revitalization by
establishing Main Street Iowa within the agency that is now the IEDA. Since
then, local Main Street programs have made a significant impact on Iowa’s
economy, including 5,237 new businesses, 15,759 jobs, and more than 13,000
building projects totaling more than $2.4 billion in private investment.
Downtown Partners, Inc. has been an accredited Main Street Program since 1996.

Bob Brueck and Blaul Lofts Honored at Main Street Iowa Development Awards

William Smith Community Editor

Community policing is often just about being there.

That’s what Burlington Police Sgt. Chad Zahn has learned during his 28-year tenure with the Burlington Police Department. He’s one of the department’s more visible officers, often stationed at community events when he's not the shift sergeant or responding to a call.

So, it only made sense for Burlington Police Chief Marc Denney to tap Zahn for the recently created Community Engagement Unit (CEU).

“It’s a community policing unit,” Zahn said. “We won’t be focusing so much on enforcement, as we will on establishing a rapport with the community. This is a vision from the chief. He really encourages the officers to become more involved in the community.”

Zahn is the only member of the unit, but the events and outings he organizes will involve officers from throughout the department. He would like some of the newer Burlington Police faces to be as recognizable as his.

One of the first outings Zahn is organizing is Coffee with a Cop. He’s hoping to host the first iteration of the outing in early May, and it will be just like the title describes, which is a chance to get to know Burlington Police officers over a cup of coffee. He’s already in contact with four local businesses that want to help and provide a venue.

“No agenda. No speeches. Just an opportunity for the community to get to know their officers,” Zahn said.

It sounds simple but establishing that kind of connection fosters trust in the police department, which aids with enforcement later.&nbsp;

“A lot of people are hesitant to just walk up to an officer and start a conversation, but that’s what we want,” Zahn said. “The community has more eyes than we do. If somebody sees something, we want them to tell us.”

Zahn has plans beyond the Coffee with a Cop program and is now in charge of the National Night Out event. The police-oriented festival, which was relaunched by the Burlington Police Department last year, consists of live entertainment, vendors, games, prizes, refreshments, and, of course, plenty of emergency vehicles.

But that’s just a start. The CEU will collaborate with community groups, department members, and other community resources to identify and solve public safety problems within the community and will develop patrol deployment plans that will allow officers to partake in problem-solving activities in conjunction with citizens.

The CEU will also collaborate with the School Resource Program, Problem-Oriented Policing Unit, K-9 program, and other specialty programs, such as Neighborhood Watch, Crime Stoppers, and the Citizen's Police Academy.

“I think this will evolve as we go on,” Zahn said. “We would like to have officers out cooking hot dogs and hamburgers for the community. We have quite a list.”

A native of Canton, Mo., Zahn started his job with the Burlington Police Department in 1994. It had been his dream job since grade school.

“I wanted to become a police officer for the excitement,” Zahn said.

While he found plenty of that, Zahn found something he didn’t know he was looking for, a pivotal role in a small community. In December of last year,&nbsp;Burlington Police Department’s B Squad, which consists of Sgt. Chad Zahn and officers Tim Merryman, Bailey Jo, Lucas Peterson, Rodney Fogle, Troy Owen, and Brennan Daniel, bought a brand-new bicycle for a FunCity worker who had been walking to work because his bike was stolen.

“I want to bring about positive interactions and show people that we are part of the community, too,” Zahn said.

For upcoming events hosted by the CEU, check the Burlington Police Department Facebook page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2022/4/1650828776958.jpeg" alt="Sgt. Chad Zahn has been tapped to head the Burlington Police Department's recently created Community Engagement Unit (CEU). Photo submitted." />
 <figcaption>Sgt. Chad Zahn has been tapped to head the Burlington Police Department's recently created Community Engagement Unit (CEU). Photo submitted.</figcaption>
 </figure>William Smith Community EditorCommunity policing is often just about being there.That’s what Burlington Police Sgt. Chad Zahn has learned during his 28-year tenure with the Burlington Police Department. He’s one of the department’s more visible officers, often stationed at community events when he's not the shift sergeant or responding to a call.So, it only made sense for Burlington Police Chief Marc Denney to tap Zahn for the recently created Community Engagement Unit (CEU).“It’s a community policing unit,” Zahn said. “We won’t be focusing so much on enforcement, as we will on establishing a rapport with the community. This is a vision from the chief. He really encourages the officers to become more involved in the community.”Zahn is the only member of the unit, but the events and outings he organizes will involve officers from throughout the department. He would like some of the newer Burlington Police faces to be as recognizable as his.One of the first outings Zahn is organizing is Coffee with a Cop. He’s hoping to host the first iteration of the outing in early May, and it will be just like the title describes, which is a chance to get to know Burlington Police officers over a cup of coffee. He’s already in contact with four local businesses that want to help and provide a venue.“No agenda. No speeches. Just an opportunity for the community to get to know their officers,” Zahn said.It sounds simple but establishing that kind of connection fosters trust in the police department, which aids with enforcement later.&nbsp;“A lot of people are hesitant to just walk up to an officer and start a conversation, but that’s what we want,” Zahn said. “The community has more eyes than we do. If somebody sees something, we want them to tell us.”Zahn has plans beyond the Coffee with a Cop program and is now in charge of the National Night Out event. The police-oriented festival, which was relaunched by the Burlington Police Department last year, consists of live entertainment, vendors, games, prizes, refreshments, and, of course, plenty of emergency vehicles.But that’s just a start. The CEU will collaborate with community groups, department members, and other community resources to identify and solve public safety problems within the community and will develop patrol deployment plans that will allow officers to partake in problem-solving activities in conjunction with citizens.The CEU will also collaborate with the School Resource Program, Problem-Oriented Policing Unit, K-9 program, and other specialty programs, such as Neighborhood Watch, Crime Stoppers, and the Citizen's Police Academy.“I think this will evolve as we go on,” Zahn said. “We would like to have officers out cooking hot dogs and hamburgers for the community. We have quite a list.”A native of Canton, Mo., Zahn started his job with the Burlington Police Department in 1994. It had been his dream job since grade school.It still is.“I wanted to become a police officer for the excitement,” Zahn said.While he found plenty of that, Zahn found something he didn’t know he was looking for, a pivotal role in a small community. In December of last year,&nbsp;Burlington Police Department’s B Squad, which consists of Sgt. Chad Zahn and officers Tim Merryman, Bailey Jo, Lucas Peterson, Rodney Fogle, Troy Owen, and Brennan Daniel, bought a brand-new bicycle for a FunCity worker who had been walking to work because his bike was stolen.“I want to bring about positive interactions and show people that we are part of the community, too,” Zahn said.For upcoming events hosted by the CEU, check the Burlington Police Department Facebook page.

BPD veteran heading up new community policing unit

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;

<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.”