Burlington High School teacher Aron Kehoe never expected to have a job in conservation, but that all changed after teaching a class on biodiversity.

Kehoe, who started working as Des Moines County Conservation’s Community Outdoor Recreation Education Specialist (CORES) in May, got the position by accident.

He was teaching for Burlington High School’s summer program, which offers special interest courses that don’t fit into the regular curriculum.

“I helped teach a class called ‘Local Biodiversity and Human Impact.’ It went really well, and students who weren’t typically engaged were showing up for class, learning, and creating new friendships,” Kehoe said.&nbsp;

Des Moines County Conservation Executive Director Chris Lee worked with Kehoe and fellow teacher Heather Hayes to create this class.&nbsp;

After several years of teaching this summer course, Lee recruited Kehoe for the DMCC’s CORES position, which is funded by grants from the Kiwanis Club of Burlington and the Aldo Leopold Pheasants Forever chapter.

In his role, Kehoe plans free recreational and educational events for people of all ages and backgrounds, such as hikes, bike rides, and disc golf. These events connect participants to community groups and organizations that provide them with recreational activities.

“We want to get more people out into nature. We have many beautiful locations in Des Moines County in which people can explore,” said Kehoe.

Kehoe has coordinated with various community organizations. For example, he helped host an archery activity at Community Day in the Parks on Saturday, where the attendees shot bows. Tim Marshal and Zach and Denissa Cornick helped Kehoe plan this event.

He also partnered with Teresa Heitmeier for an outreach event with s’mores and a hike where he showed individuals with disabilities how to identify plants and animals. Kehoe said they had almost 40 people come, and he plans on doing another event like it in the fall.

Kehoe aims to educate participants and help them make memories. He has several upcoming events toward this aim.&nbsp;

First of all, he has planned a bike ride through the trails from 9 a.m. to noon on July 25, starting at Zion Schoolhouse. Then on Aug. 2, a world triathlon qualifier will teach participants running theory and drills at the How to Run in a Park event from 8-9:30 a.m. at Starr’s Cave Nature Center.

Additionally, DMCC hosts pop-up events to provide more opportunities for individuals to get involved.&nbsp;

Kehoe encourages attendees to RSVP by calling the Nature Center at 319-753-5808.

When planning these activities, Kehoe eliminates as many barriers as possible. Currently, everything he has scheduled is free.

“The best things in my youth were with my grandpa and often in nature, and I don’t think expense should count people out of experiences like that,” said Kehoe.

County residents can even get transportation to some of the events if they call the Nature Center ahead of time. Another goal of Kehoe’s is to reach new demographics. Many attendees are white and middle-class, so he aims to broaden that reach. He said the response from community members has been very positive.

“Everyone I’ve reached out to has either helped me or, if they can’t help me right now, said they will in the future,” said Kehoe.

Even though he has only had the position a short time, he said it makes him “so happy” and “hardly feels like work.”&nbsp;

He loves connecting with people from all different backgrounds and seeing them make memories. Although Kehoe was never particularly interested in conservation and nature growing up, he always loved spending time outdoors, especially for runs and bike rides.&nbsp;

He ran competitively in college while attending the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater during his undergrad, so he was regularly outside. He received a bachelor’s degree in special education and went on to pursue his master’s degree in secondary education from Southeast Missouri State University.

Kehoe has long had a passion for education, which is why he said teaching was the perfect occupation for him.

“I’ve always loved learning and teaching youth,” said Kehoe.&nbsp;

“The main goal has been to meet students where they are and help them become the best version of themselves. I learn just so much from them and they help me focus on areas in which I can grow, too,” said Kehoe in describing his approach to teaching.

He will continue working part-time as a teacher next school year and applies the same mindset he uses as a teacher to his position at Des Moines County Conservation.

“I want people to learn about nature, not fear it,” said Kehoe.

Going forward, Kehoe wants to keep “bringing joy and making people stewards of conservation.”&nbsp;

Kehoe’s office is at Starr’s Cave Nature Center, along with information about pollinators and a beaver exhibit. The Center is located on Starr’s Cave Parks and Preserve, an 184-acre park with several miles of hiking trails.

Kehoe encourages everyone to check out the Nature Center on Facebook and stop by to see it in person.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/7/1722224938590.jpeg" alt="Aron Kehoe, the community outdoor recreation education specialist with Des Moines County Conservation, gives Eleanor Danforth, 7, some pointers about archery on July 13 at Dankwardt Park. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Aron Kehoe, the community outdoor recreation education specialist with Des Moines County Conservation, gives Eleanor Danforth, 7, some pointers about archery on July 13 at Dankwardt Park. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By Maggie FitzpatrickBurlington High School teacher Aron Kehoe never expected to have a job in conservation, but that all changed after teaching a class on biodiversity.Kehoe, who started working as Des Moines County Conservation’s Community Outdoor Recreation Education Specialist (CORES) in May, got the position by accident.He was teaching for Burlington High School’s summer program, which offers special interest courses that don’t fit into the regular curriculum.“I helped teach a class called ‘Local Biodiversity and Human Impact.’ It went really well, and students who weren’t typically engaged were showing up for class, learning, and creating new friendships,” Kehoe said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/7/1722224985828.jpeg" alt="Aron Kehoe, the community outdoor recreation education specialist with Des Moines County Conservation, poses for a photo at the Starr’s Cave Nature Center. Photo/Maggie Fitzpatrick" />
 <figcaption>Aron Kehoe, the community outdoor recreation education specialist with Des Moines County Conservation, poses for a photo at the Starr’s Cave Nature Center. Photo/Maggie Fitzpatrick</figcaption>
 </figure>Des Moines County Conservation Executive Director Chris Lee worked with Kehoe and fellow teacher Heather Hayes to create this class.&nbsp;After several years of teaching this summer course, Lee recruited Kehoe for the DMCC’s CORES position, which is funded by grants from the Kiwanis Club of Burlington and the Aldo Leopold Pheasants Forever chapter.In his role, Kehoe plans free recreational and educational events for people of all ages and backgrounds, such as hikes, bike rides, and disc golf. These events connect participants to community groups and organizations that provide them with recreational activities.“We want to get more people out into nature. We have many beautiful locations in Des Moines County in which people can explore,” said Kehoe.Kehoe has coordinated with various community organizations. For example, he helped host an archery activity at Community Day in the Parks on Saturday, where the attendees shot bows. Tim Marshal and Zach and Denissa Cornick helped Kehoe plan this event.He also partnered with Teresa Heitmeier for an outreach event with s’mores and a hike where he showed individuals with disabilities how to identify plants and animals. Kehoe said they had almost 40 people come, and he plans on doing another event like it in the fall.Kehoe aims to educate participants and help them make memories. He has several upcoming events toward this aim.&nbsp;First of all, he has planned a bike ride through the trails from 9 a.m. to noon on July 25, starting at Zion Schoolhouse. Then on Aug. 2, a world triathlon qualifier will teach participants running theory and drills at the How to Run in a Park event from 8-9:30 a.m. at Starr’s Cave Nature Center.Additionally, DMCC hosts pop-up events to provide more opportunities for individuals to get involved.&nbsp;Kehoe encourages attendees to RSVP by calling the Nature Center at 319-753-5808.When planning these activities, Kehoe eliminates as many barriers as possible. Currently, everything he has scheduled is free.“The best things in my youth were with my grandpa and often in nature, and I don’t think expense should count people out of experiences like that,” said Kehoe.County residents can even get transportation to some of the events if they call the Nature Center ahead of time. Another goal of Kehoe’s is to reach new demographics. Many attendees are white and middle-class, so he aims to broaden that reach. He said the response from community members has been very positive.“Everyone I’ve reached out to has either helped me or, if they can’t help me right now, said they will in the future,” said Kehoe.Even though he has only had the position a short time, he said it makes him “so happy” and “hardly feels like work.”&nbsp;He loves connecting with people from all different backgrounds and seeing them make memories. Although Kehoe was never particularly interested in conservation and nature growing up, he always loved spending time outdoors, especially for runs and bike rides.&nbsp;He ran competitively in college while attending the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater during his undergrad, so he was regularly outside. He received a bachelor’s degree in special education and went on to pursue his master’s degree in secondary education from Southeast Missouri State University.Kehoe has long had a passion for education, which is why he said teaching was the perfect occupation for him.“I’ve always loved learning and teaching youth,” said Kehoe.&nbsp;“The main goal has been to meet students where they are and help them become the best version of themselves. I learn just so much from them and they help me focus on areas in which I can grow, too,” said Kehoe in describing his approach to teaching.He will continue working part-time as a teacher next school year and applies the same mindset he uses as a teacher to his position at Des Moines County Conservation.“I want people to learn about nature, not fear it,” said Kehoe.Going forward, Kehoe wants to keep “bringing joy and making people stewards of conservation.”&nbsp;Kehoe’s office is at Starr’s Cave Nature Center, along with information about pollinators and a beaver exhibit. The Center is located on Starr’s Cave Parks and Preserve, an 184-acre park with several miles of hiking trails.Kehoe encourages everyone to check out the Nature Center on Facebook and stop by to see it in person.

52 FACES: All the world is a classroom

Photos 1 and 2: Allison Nalley is crowned the 2024 Des Moines County Fair Queen by last year's queen Caroline Nealey during the Des Moines County Fair Queen Pagea on Tuesday at Southeastern Community College's Agri Sports Arena in West Burlington. 

Photo 3: Nalley, center, along with Brenna Thie, left, who was named the 2024 Des Moines County Fair Spirit Award winner,  and Jennifer Lohmann, right, who was named the 2024 Des Moines County Fair Princess.

Photos by John Lovretta<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/7/1721921106410.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/7/1721921132601.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Photos 1 and 2: Allison Nalley is crowned the 2024 Des Moines County Fair Queen by last year's queen Caroline Nealey during the Des Moines County Fair Queen Pagea on Tuesday at Southeastern Community College's Agri Sports Arena in West Burlington. <figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/7/1721921160618.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Photo 3: Nalley, center, along with Brenna Thie, left, who was named the 2024 Des Moines County Fair Spirit Award winner, and Jennifer Lohmann, right, who was named the 2024 Des Moines County Fair Princess.

Nalley Crowned 2024 DMC Fair Queen 

Jerry Jackson, 78, has been blind most of his life.

He’s also a passionate cyclist who plans to complete the entire RAGBRAI route later this month. He’s done it several times before but noted this may be his last.

“Unless I decide to do it again when I’m 80,” he said with a grin and sincere intent.

It’s doubtful Jackson will be the oldest participant in the race. And he knows for sure he won’t be the only blind rider. He’s one of seven, among the 10,000-plus riders.

But he’s sure to be the oldest blind rider on the route. A true RAGBRAI rarity.

Jackson didn’t start his life blind. He gradually lost his vision over the years — the fallout from a rare genetic disease that has robbed Jackson’s two daughters of their sight as well.

From a sensory perspective, Jackson experiences RAGBRAI differently than most. But the vibe is the same – an intoxicating mix of camaraderie and excitement.

“Most people probably enjoy the scenery. I hear people all around us. Boom boxes and radios blasting away. You hear all kinds of music,” Jackson said.

Equipped with a standard white walking cane, Jackson has no trouble getting around by himself. He works two jobs in Burlington — repairing bicycles at Bickel’s Cycling and Fitness and providing customer service at the Agency Street Hy-Vee.&nbsp;

Jackson was an avid cyclist before losing his vision and has ridden RAGBRAI several times. After becoming visually impaired, he started using a tandem bike, requiring a partner to pedal the other end.

This time around, Jackson will be riding with his friend and Burlington resident Doug Beck. They’ve ridden RAGBRAI on a tandem bicycle before and have developed an unstated synchronization. Their pedaling cadence melds together, which is important for a smooth ride on a tandem bike.

“We don’t have to talk while we’re riding,” Beck said. “You see other people on tandems talking a lot more, saying when they are going to shift.”

Beck does more than ride with Jackson. As Jackson’s designated captain, Beck acts as Jerry’s guiding arm even while walking. Jackson can traverse almost any terrain with his cane, but having an assistant describe the surroundings makes life easier.

“Not that you would hear Jerry complain. You never hear him complain,” Beck said.

Jackson laughs when he hears people say that.

“I guess I’m blessed. I don’t have to see a lot of things other people have to see,” he said, with a smile.

If Jackson ever lamented his lot in life, no one saw it.

“It’s not that bad,” the ever-affable Jackson said. “I think just about any other disability would be worse. I have no reason to complain about being blind. God gives me the strength to make the best of each day.”

Jackson was diagnosed with a rare disease called ADNIV — autosomal dominant neovascular inflammatory vitreoretinopathy. It is hereditary, affecting just a few families in Iowa and one family in Ohio.

The disease is so rare that Jackson and his family were featured in several publications — from the “Des Moines Register” to “People” magazine. In 2013, of the approximately 123 diagnosed cases in the U.S., 84 were in the Jackson family bloodline, dating back to the early 1800s.

“Now we have found it in hundreds of family members,” he said.&nbsp;

Both of his daughters, Shawnna Williamson and Shannon Jackson have been impacted by ADNIV. Jerry’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren have a 50 percent chance of inheriting the disease.

Jerry got one glimpse of one grandchild, Bobbi, shortly after an eye surgery. He vividly remembers every detail.

“This one time, she was sitting on my lap in the car going down the road, and the sun happened to hit her face, and I was looking that way. I really wasn’t focusing on her face, but I just happened to catch a glimpse,” he said.

Jackson started losing vision in his early 20s when he worked for the now-defunct Leopold Desk Co.

“I was driving home from the desk company, and I started noticing spots floating around,” Jackson said. “I went to the doctor, and he had never seen anything like it before.”

He was unaware of the history of blindness in his family. His great-grandmother was known to be blind but was not alive when Jerry was born. While his mother lost her sight when she was in her 50s, and his grandmother lost her sight when she was in her 60s, neither was affected at the time Jerry experienced his problems.

Of course, Jackson had no idea the condition was hereditary. Neither did his doctors. It was shortly after Jerry experienced problems that a cousin and his mother had similar symptoms; it was concluded there likely was a genetic cause.

By 1973, Jackson’s vision had deteriorated to where he had to stop driving. He didn’t need someone to tell him.

“I couldn’t see far enough ahead to feel it was safe,” Jackson said.

He underwent several laser surgeries over the following years, but none of them were successful.

The disease caused Jackson’s retina to swell, restricting blood flow through the blood vessels. This caused abnormal blood vessels to grow in the retina, which Jackson described as similar to a clump of grapes. Those vessels were inherently weak, causing dangerous hemorrhaging inside his eyes.

Thus began the numerous laser surgeries, which burned Jackson’s retinas to the point of blindness. The upside was, that Jerry got to keep his eyes — even though his retinas look like a volcanic landscape. The treatment took his sight&nbsp; before the disease could.

“They would shoot it with a laser to stop the bleeding,” Jackson said. “You would see this flash, and it would just burn.”

It was during this time that Jackson’s disease was named ADNIV. Physicians at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics spent years drawing blood from Jackson’s family so they could study the disease and identify a genetic marker. Researchers even turn up at family reunions.

According to Richard Lewis, a research editor with the University of Iowa, ADNIV can be traced through five generations of Jacksons. Lewis created a family tree listing all of the family members who might have been affected.&nbsp;

“It was only recently known that it (ADNIV) is confined to certain families and is being passed down from one family member to another,” Lewis said.

Jerry has learned to use the sounds around him to compensate for his loss of vision. When he comes near a car or another object, the echoes from his cane have a different tone.&nbsp;

He can tell the difference between parking lots by the texture he feels under his cane. He also memorizes his route to work and other places through local landmarks, and he used to be able to discern when a traffic light changed just by the clicking noise it made.

Traffic lights in Burlington don’t make that sound anymore, but that doesn’t stop Jerry from crossing the street.

“If there’s traffic, I can tell which way it’s going, but I can’t tell if someone is turning,” he said.

By now, Jerry Jackson doesn’t think in terms of “sighted” and “unsighted,” save for the times his obvious condition enters the conversation.

“I’m lucky. I remember what things looked like. I remember colors and other things that people born with blindness don’t know,” he said.

After years of becoming more adept at repairing bicycles, Jackson started a bike ministry through his church — Burlington Baptist Church. The ministry makes a point of repairing bicycles for those who need them for work and other necessities.

“We’re so busy we can barely keep up. I’m running out of room,” Jackson said.

The bike ministry at Burlington Baptist Church isn’t interested in demographics. The used bicycles they repair and give away are equally distributed to everyone, often through local charitable organizations.

That includes children who need a way to school. Single mothers who need a way to work. Locals who have lost their driver’s license. Recently released inmates who don’t have easy access to transportation. Anyone who needs a hand.

“It’s not always the kids. It’s the older people too,” said bike ministry member Paul Fraise.

Jackson got the ministry rolling about eight years ago. He asked Burlington Baptist Church minister Kendall Adams what he thought of the idea.

Adams responded by asking the church for volunteers to help Jackson. Fraise and fellow church member Randy Simmons were two of the first to join, and they have been with the club ever since.

“The one thing we are having a hard time finding for the ministry is a used three-wheeled bike. We don’t see those as much anymore,” Jackson said.

The members meet in Jackson’s basement every week, toiling under bright white lights as they catch up with each other. Jackson, who uses the back half of the basement for his own classic bike collection, usually leads the project.

They usually don’t know who the bikes are going to, and they don’t care. However, occasionally, when they get a request — often for a child in need — the members get to see the results of their volunteer work in person.&nbsp;

“That’s just been a blessing,” Jackson said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/7/1721574660589.jpeg" alt="Jerry Jackson, left, takes a break while riding a tandem bicycle with Doug Beck. The two have been training together for the upcoming RAGBRAI bicycle ride across Iowa, finishing in Burlington. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Jerry Jackson, left, takes a break while riding a tandem bicycle with Doug Beck. The two have been training together for the upcoming RAGBRAI bicycle ride across Iowa, finishing in Burlington. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By William SmithJerry Jackson, 78, has been blind most of his life.He’s also a passionate cyclist who plans to complete the entire RAGBRAI route later this month. He’s done it several times before but noted this may be his last.“Unless I decide to do it again when I’m 80,” he said with a grin and sincere intent.It’s doubtful Jackson will be the oldest participant in the race. And he knows for sure he won’t be the only blind rider. He’s one of seven, among the 10,000-plus riders.But he’s sure to be the oldest blind rider on the route. A true RAGBRAI rarity.Jackson didn’t start his life blind. He gradually lost his vision over the years — the fallout from a rare genetic disease that has robbed Jackson’s two daughters of their sight as well.From a sensory perspective, Jackson experiences RAGBRAI differently than most. But the vibe is the same – an intoxicating mix of camaraderie and excitement.“Most people probably enjoy the scenery. I hear people all around us. Boom boxes and radios blasting away. You hear all kinds of music,” Jackson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/7/1721574937673.jpeg" alt="Jerry Jackson is shown riding stoker on a tandem bicycle with Doug Beck in front riding in the captain's position. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Jerry Jackson is shown riding stoker on a tandem bicycle with Doug Beck in front riding in the captain's position. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>Riding With A FriendEquipped with a standard white walking cane, Jackson has no trouble getting around by himself. He works two jobs in Burlington — repairing bicycles at Bickel’s Cycling and Fitness and providing customer service at the Agency Street Hy-Vee.&nbsp;Jackson was an avid cyclist before losing his vision and has ridden RAGBRAI several times. After becoming visually impaired, he started using a tandem bike, requiring a partner to pedal the other end.This time around, Jackson will be riding with his friend and Burlington resident Doug Beck. They’ve ridden RAGBRAI on a tandem bicycle before and have developed an unstated synchronization. Their pedaling cadence melds together, which is important for a smooth ride on a tandem bike.“We don’t have to talk while we’re riding,” Beck said. “You see other people on tandems talking a lot more, saying when they are going to shift.”Beck does more than ride with Jackson. As Jackson’s designated captain, Beck acts as Jerry’s guiding arm even while walking. Jackson can traverse almost any terrain with his cane, but having an assistant describe the surroundings makes life easier.“Not that you would hear Jerry complain. You never hear him complain,” Beck said.Jackson laughs when he hears people say that.“I guess I’m blessed. I don’t have to see a lot of things other people have to see,” he said, with a smile.A Rare ConditionIf Jackson ever lamented his lot in life, no one saw it.“It’s not that bad,” the ever-affable Jackson said. “I think just about any other disability would be worse. I have no reason to complain about being blind. God gives me the strength to make the best of each day.”Jackson was diagnosed with a rare disease called ADNIV — autosomal dominant neovascular inflammatory vitreoretinopathy. It is hereditary, affecting just a few families in Iowa and one family in Ohio.The disease is so rare that Jackson and his family were featured in several publications — from the “Des Moines Register” to “People” magazine. In 2013, of the approximately 123 diagnosed cases in the U.S., 84 were in the Jackson family bloodline, dating back to the early 1800s.“Now we have found it in hundreds of family members,” he said.&nbsp;Both of his daughters, Shawnna Williamson and Shannon Jackson have been impacted by ADNIV. Jerry’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren have a 50 percent chance of inheriting the disease.Jerry got one glimpse of one grandchild, Bobbi, shortly after an eye surgery. He vividly remembers every detail.“This one time, she was sitting on my lap in the car going down the road, and the sun happened to hit her face, and I was looking that way. I really wasn’t focusing on her face, but I just happened to catch a glimpse,” he said.An Unknown HistoryJackson started losing vision in his early 20s when he worked for the now-defunct Leopold Desk Co.“I was driving home from the desk company, and I started noticing spots floating around,” Jackson said. “I went to the doctor, and he had never seen anything like it before.”He was unaware of the history of blindness in his family. His great-grandmother was known to be blind but was not alive when Jerry was born. While his mother lost her sight when she was in her 50s, and his grandmother lost her sight when she was in her 60s, neither was affected at the time Jerry experienced his problems.Of course, Jackson had no idea the condition was hereditary. Neither did his doctors. It was shortly after Jerry experienced problems that a cousin and his mother had similar symptoms; it was concluded there likely was a genetic cause.By 1973, Jackson’s vision had deteriorated to where he had to stop driving. He didn’t need someone to tell him.“I couldn’t see far enough ahead to feel it was safe,” Jackson said.He underwent several laser surgeries over the following years, but none of them were successful.The disease caused Jackson’s retina to swell, restricting blood flow through the blood vessels. This caused abnormal blood vessels to grow in the retina, which Jackson described as similar to a clump of grapes. Those vessels were inherently weak, causing dangerous hemorrhaging inside his eyes.Thus began the numerous laser surgeries, which burned Jackson’s retinas to the point of blindness. The upside was, that Jerry got to keep his eyes — even though his retinas look like a volcanic landscape. The treatment took his sight&nbsp; before the disease could.Jackson still remembers the pain.“They would shoot it with a laser to stop the bleeding,” Jackson said. “You would see this flash, and it would just burn.”It was during this time that Jackson’s disease was named ADNIV. Physicians at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics spent years drawing blood from Jackson’s family so they could study the disease and identify a genetic marker. Researchers even turn up at family reunions.According to Richard Lewis, a research editor with the University of Iowa, ADNIV can be traced through five generations of Jacksons. Lewis created a family tree listing all of the family members who might have been affected.&nbsp;“It was only recently known that it (ADNIV) is confined to certain families and is being passed down from one family member to another,” Lewis said.Adapting and ThrivingJerry has learned to use the sounds around him to compensate for his loss of vision. When he comes near a car or another object, the echoes from his cane have a different tone.&nbsp;He can tell the difference between parking lots by the texture he feels under his cane. He also memorizes his route to work and other places through local landmarks, and he used to be able to discern when a traffic light changed just by the clicking noise it made.Traffic lights in Burlington don’t make that sound anymore, but that doesn’t stop Jerry from crossing the street.“If there’s traffic, I can tell which way it’s going, but I can’t tell if someone is turning,” he said.By now, Jerry Jackson doesn’t think in terms of “sighted” and “unsighted,” save for the times his obvious condition enters the conversation.“I’m lucky. I remember what things looked like. I remember colors and other things that people born with blindness don’t know,” he said.After years of becoming more adept at repairing bicycles, Jackson started a bike ministry through his church — Burlington Baptist Church. The ministry makes a point of repairing bicycles for those who need them for work and other necessities.“We’re so busy we can barely keep up. I’m running out of room,” Jackson said.The bike ministry at Burlington Baptist Church isn’t interested in demographics. The used bicycles they repair and give away are equally distributed to everyone, often through local charitable organizations.That includes children who need a way to school. Single mothers who need a way to work. Locals who have lost their driver’s license. Recently released inmates who don’t have easy access to transportation. Anyone who needs a hand.“It’s not always the kids. It’s the older people too,” said bike ministry member Paul Fraise.Jackson got the ministry rolling about eight years ago. He asked Burlington Baptist Church minister Kendall Adams what he thought of the idea.Adams responded by asking the church for volunteers to help Jackson. Fraise and fellow church member Randy Simmons were two of the first to join, and they have been with the club ever since.“The one thing we are having a hard time finding for the ministry is a used three-wheeled bike. We don’t see those as much anymore,” Jackson said.The members meet in Jackson’s basement every week, toiling under bright white lights as they catch up with each other. Jackson, who uses the back half of the basement for his own classic bike collection, usually leads the project.They usually don’t know who the bikes are going to, and they don’t care. However, occasionally, when they get a request — often for a child in need — the members get to see the results of their volunteer work in person.&nbsp;It’s always wonderful.“That’s just been a blessing,” Jackson said.

52 Faces: Road Warrior

When Bob Fleming landed a job at the IBM computer corporation in the early 1950s, he thought his life was set.

“It was a good job with a good company,” the 93-year-old Fleming said.

But before he worked his first day, he met with John Winegard at the behest of his father. John had just started the Winegard antenna company a few years earlier, a growing business with no guarantee of success.

Inexplicably, Fleming decided to ditch IBM in favor of Winegard. His would-be bosses and future bosses at IBM couldn’t understand his decision. They tried to research the history of Winegard and found nothing.

Fleming couldn’t explain it either. His training in the Air Force had set him up for such a position, and he graduated from the University of Iowa with a business degree.

But he liked Winegard’s offer. More importantly, he loved Burlington. He was born there and has lived his entire life there.

“Why would I want to leave?” he said.

So Fleming and Winegard got to work. Fleming didn’t stop working for 40 years, retiring as vice president at the age of 65. By then, he working for John’s son, Randy Winegard.

“Eventually, I was hiring people and traveling around the country, talking to our top customers and helping to build the business,” Fleming said.

That was just the start. Fleming served eight years on the city council, becoming a key Burlington figure. He was the primary driver behind Burlington’s decision to change the city government and hire a city manager.&nbsp;

Fleming was the only member of the council in favor of the change to a city manager — at first.

“So I thought, ‘Well, I’ve got myself into a mess now. These guys aren’t going to want to deal, you know.’ But I was wrong. They adjusted to it. We brought in a good city manager, and he got us oriented and got things organized,” Fleming said.

A few weeks ago, Fleming and seven other University of Iowa alumni, including Tom Brokaw, were honored with the “Eight Over 80” award. The award honors those who have made significant contributions after turning 80.

Fleming, a regular volunteer and board member, met that requirement 13 years ago. His son Kevin nominated Fleming for the awards.

Born in Burlington in 1931, Fleming attended Catholic schools in town.&nbsp; He would eventually become a substitute teacher for Notre Dame, and several of his children are teachers.

“My dad worked at the Leopold (Desk) Company for many years,” he said.

Fleming actually attended two colleges. He attended the College of the Holy Cross in Western Massachusetts for a few years, just as the Korean War was heating up.

One year, while back home on Christmas break, Fleming and more than half a dozen of his friends decided to enlist in the Air Force.&nbsp;

While his father was not fond of the idea of Bob starting a military career, he told his son that he was “doing the right thing.”

After basic training, Fleming thought he would be shipped to Korea. But he was to be kept stateside, as an instructor in the school he had just graduated from.

“I never bragged too much about my military experience, because so many guys — and I thought I would be one — were being shipped to Korea. Well, I got shipped to Cheyenne, Wyo., to attend the school on radio electronics,” he said.

Though he was only in the Air Force for four years, Fleming’s skill set expanded greatly in that time. He even learned how to be a lineman, climbing poles with spiked boots as fast as he could.

Fleming also served as an MP (military policeman), and found himself in the middle of a deadly shootout that ended with a dead police officer and two AWOL soldiers.

Fleming didn’t do any shooting. He only carried a baton. When he got a gun to help search for the perps, he forgot one vital thing.

“They (the police) said I did a pretty good job, except for one thing. They said I needed to have bullets in my gun,” Fleming said with a laugh.

One of the AWOL soldiers threatened Fleming with gang violence, and Fleming said the threat did bother him for a while. But then he came back home to Burlington and married his high school sweetheart; the possible gang violence was forgotten.

“We were very happily married. Then we ended up having three boys and two girls. So we’ve been very blessed,” Fleming said. “My two younger sons live in town.”

Fleming said his oldest son is 70-years-old.

“I can’t believe I have a son that old,” he said, grinning.

Fleming’s first wife died of cancer around the time he retired, and he was able to retire earlier than he planned to take care of her and be with her during her final days of life.

Fleming married his current wife Anita several years after that — another happy marriage that makes Fleming count his blessings.&nbsp;

He had no intention of running for city council, but discovered a deeper love for Burlington once he was talked into running.

&nbsp;After retirement and serving three terms on the council, Fleming continued to swim in local volunteer waters. He was involved with the Burlington Chamber of Commerce. He served as a trustee for St. Paul’s Catholic Church and found himself on the Great River Health board.

“I was on the board when we decided to build the new hospital, which was quite an event,” Fleming said.

Fleming stays active, mentally and physically. He works out on a regular basis at the Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center. Until a few weeks ago, he served on the Burlington Planning Commission.&nbsp;

Fleming said he’s been blessed with good health, and his decision to protect that health through exercise has kept him nimble.

He loves Burlington as much as he did in his youth, back when he delivered newspapers by hand. Slipping into the unseen crevices of city government only strengthened his infatuation.

“I’ve been lucky. I’ve had a good life,” Fleming said. “I thought Burlington is a good town, and I still think it’s a good town.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/5/1716915294817.jpeg" alt="Photo by John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Photo by John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By William SmithWhen Bob Fleming landed a job at the IBM computer corporation in the early 1950s, he thought his life was set.“It was a good job with a good company,” the 93-year-old Fleming said.But before he worked his first day, he met with John Winegard at the behest of his father. John had just started the Winegard antenna company a few years earlier, a growing business with no guarantee of success.Inexplicably, Fleming decided to ditch IBM in favor of Winegard. His would-be bosses and future bosses at IBM couldn’t understand his decision. They tried to research the history of Winegard and found nothing.Fleming couldn’t explain it either. His training in the Air Force had set him up for such a position, and he graduated from the University of Iowa with a business degree.But he liked Winegard’s offer. More importantly, he loved Burlington. He was born there and has lived his entire life there.“Why would I want to leave?” he said.So Fleming and Winegard got to work. Fleming didn’t stop working for 40 years, retiring as vice president at the age of 65. By then, he working for John’s son, Randy Winegard.“Eventually, I was hiring people and traveling around the country, talking to our top customers and helping to build the business,” Fleming said.That was just the start. Fleming served eight years on the city council, becoming a key Burlington figure. He was the primary driver behind Burlington’s decision to change the city government and hire a city manager.&nbsp;Fleming was the only member of the council in favor of the change to a city manager — at first.“So I thought, ‘Well, I’ve got myself into a mess now. These guys aren’t going to want to deal, you know.’ But I was wrong. They adjusted to it. We brought in a good city manager, and he got us oriented and got things organized,” Fleming said.A few weeks ago, Fleming and seven other University of Iowa alumni, including Tom Brokaw, were honored with the “Eight Over 80” award. The award honors those who have made significant contributions after turning 80.Fleming, a regular volunteer and board member, met that requirement 13 years ago. His son Kevin nominated Fleming for the awards.“I was flattered,” Fleming said.Born in Burlington in 1931, Fleming attended Catholic schools in town.&nbsp; He would eventually become a substitute teacher for Notre Dame, and several of his children are teachers.“My dad worked at the Leopold (Desk) Company for many years,” he said.Fleming actually attended two colleges. He attended the College of the Holy Cross in Western Massachusetts for a few years, just as the Korean War was heating up.One year, while back home on Christmas break, Fleming and more than half a dozen of his friends decided to enlist in the Air Force.&nbsp;While his father was not fond of the idea of Bob starting a military career, he told his son that he was “doing the right thing.”After basic training, Fleming thought he would be shipped to Korea. But he was to be kept stateside, as an instructor in the school he had just graduated from.“I never bragged too much about my military experience, because so many guys — and I thought I would be one — were being shipped to Korea. Well, I got shipped to Cheyenne, Wyo., to attend the school on radio electronics,” he said.Though he was only in the Air Force for four years, Fleming’s skill set expanded greatly in that time. He even learned how to be a lineman, climbing poles with spiked boots as fast as he could.Fleming also served as an MP (military policeman), and found himself in the middle of a deadly shootout that ended with a dead police officer and two AWOL soldiers.Fleming didn’t do any shooting. He only carried a baton. When he got a gun to help search for the perps, he forgot one vital thing.“They (the police) said I did a pretty good job, except for one thing. They said I needed to have bullets in my gun,” Fleming said with a laugh.One of the AWOL soldiers threatened Fleming with gang violence, and Fleming said the threat did bother him for a while. But then he came back home to Burlington and married his high school sweetheart; the possible gang violence was forgotten.Life moved on. And life was good.“We were very happily married. Then we ended up having three boys and two girls. So we’ve been very blessed,” Fleming said. “My two younger sons live in town.”Fleming said his oldest son is 70-years-old.“I can’t believe I have a son that old,” he said, grinning.Fleming’s first wife died of cancer around the time he retired, and he was able to retire earlier than he planned to take care of her and be with her during her final days of life.Fleming married his current wife Anita several years after that — another happy marriage that makes Fleming count his blessings.&nbsp;He had no intention of running for city council, but discovered a deeper love for Burlington once he was talked into running.&nbsp;After retirement and serving three terms on the council, Fleming continued to swim in local volunteer waters. He was involved with the Burlington Chamber of Commerce. He served as a trustee for St. Paul’s Catholic Church and found himself on the Great River Health board.“I was on the board when we decided to build the new hospital, which was quite an event,” Fleming said.Fleming stays active, mentally and physically. He works out on a regular basis at the Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center. Until a few weeks ago, he served on the Burlington Planning Commission.&nbsp;Fleming said he’s been blessed with good health, and his decision to protect that health through exercise has kept him nimble.He loves Burlington as much as he did in his youth, back when he delivered newspapers by hand. Slipping into the unseen crevices of city government only strengthened his infatuation.“I’ve been lucky. I’ve had a good life,” Fleming said. “I thought Burlington is a good town, and I still think it’s a good town.”

52 Faces: Never too old to make a difference

Billy Sims BBQ and Wing Stop are moving into the location that formerly housed Shokai Sushi and Taco John’s before that.

The building that housed those restaurants was demolished Wednesday.

A new building will be constructed, the menu will be expanded and the employee count will be doubled. The businesses are owned and operated by Jeremy Music and Brandon Mosley, who also own Scooter’s Coffee.

Billy Sims BBQ and Wing Stop are currently located at the City Center shopping strip, at 2750 Mount Pleasant St. Construction should start within a couple of months, and the new location could open as early as this winter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/5/1715886494846.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Beacon StaffBilly Sims BBQ and Wing Stop are moving into the location that formerly housed Shokai Sushi and Taco John’s before that.The building that housed those restaurants was demolished Wednesday.A new building will be constructed, the menu will be expanded and the employee count will be doubled. The businesses are owned and operated by Jeremy Music and Brandon Mosley, who also own Scooter’s Coffee.Billy Sims BBQ and Wing Stop are currently located at the City Center shopping strip, at 2750 Mount Pleasant St. Construction should start within a couple of months, and the new location could open as early as this winter.

Billy Sims and Wing Stop Are Moving 

The most popular pieces have been in the brand’s production line for years: the chore coat, the double knee pants, the watch hat beanie, and the K87 pocket tee.&nbsp;

Recently, those designs have seen Carhartt move beyond a street wear-adjacent brand into one of the bestselling brands.

Nichole Pieper, Carhartt manager for Standard of Beaverdale, has seen the evidence.

“It has now become a big trend for the younger generation. Things from the 1980s are making a comeback, and Carhartt was really big in the 80s,” she said.

Carhartt was founded in 1889, supplying work wear to railroad workers.

“Since then, it has evolved so much,” Pieper said. “Obviously, it’s well known for bib overalls and coats. But they have worked really hard to renovate their line to fit more with the youth while maintaining the durability and sustainability that Carhartt is always known for,” Pieper said.

One of the newest innovations that impresses Pieper is the Sun Defender long-sleeve shirt that can be worn in the summertime.

“It actually has more sun protection than most of your sun lotion that you put on,” Pieper said.

The cool kids in New York City started wearing domestic Carhartt products around 2020, and it has had a hip-hop connection since the 1990s.

Tommy Boy Records bought 800 Carhartt jackets, added its logo, and gave them to acts, including House of Pain who wore them in their video for “Jump Around.”

“It’s actually beautiful to see all these young kids coming in, and it’s nice to show them all the different products and even show them things that they didn’t even know were out here,” she said.

Rachel Neil, lead designer and manager of Standard of Beaverdale’s kitchen and bath department, said the COVID-19 pandemic impacted Standard of Beaverdale.

It made the store busier than ever. It seemed like everybody who was stuck in their home wanted to remodel it. And that’s exactly what Standard of Beaverdale specializes in.

“It was overwhelming. But it’s nice to be busy. We have four designers here, three full-time, and we’re all just extremely busy,” Neil said.

There were plenty of material shortages, but it didn’t impede business.

“It worked out, and it was great for us. I mean, nobody enjoyed the pandemic, but it was great for business,” Neil said.

Neil said sage green and blues are really popular in kitchen design right now. Ten years ago, Standard of Beaverdale expanded the shop with a second story dedicated entirely to kitchen and bath design.

As far as fixtures and hardware colors, the black matte is where it’s at.&nbsp;

“I don’t feel like it’s trending, I feel like it’s going to be popular forever,” Neil said. “The older generations are still drawn to honey oak.”

Neil said the second floor is just one stop on a complete home renovation that can be completely done in-store.

“We keep everything here, as far as any type of material that you would need. We’ve got many contractors that we can recommend to clients. We pride ourselves on customer service,” she said. “We’re there from the beginning to the end.”

Standard of Beaverdale opened its doors in 1970. Since then, the locally-owned lumberyard and construction material dealer has offered custom building and home design services.

“You can literally walk in here with a piece of land and, you know, buy everything you need to build the house, furnish the house,” said Ben Dobson, appliance store manager for Standard of Beaverdale.

Dobson said the latest trend for washing machines and other appliances is “smart appliances.” Those would be appliances you can run from your smartphone, such as setting the oven to preheat for a pizza you can scan at a grocery store.

Dobson said they are nice, but not all rural customers have fast internet access. He stands behind sturdier and more trusted brands — such as Speed Queen washing machines — that are sold in the store.

“Speed Queen is the tried-and-true good product, and that’s something we have tried to kind of change the mentality. We want stuff that is going to work for the customer. Stuff that is going to last,” Dobson said.

That doesn’t just apply to washing machines. It’s a store-wide standard of excellence.

“We employ our delivery guys, and our service guys work for the store. We’re not bringing outside people into your home. If you have a delivery issue, you can call me and I can sit down with the guys and say, ‘Why did this happen?’ A lot of box stores are going to third-party contractors now,” Dobson said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/5/1715884887519.jpeg" alt="Photo by John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Photo by John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By William SmithCarhartt is catching on again.The most popular pieces have been in the brand’s production line for years: the chore coat, the double knee pants, the watch hat beanie, and the K87 pocket tee.&nbsp;Recently, those designs have seen Carhartt move beyond a street wear-adjacent brand into one of the bestselling brands.Nichole Pieper, Carhartt manager for Standard of Beaverdale, has seen the evidence.“It has now become a big trend for the younger generation. Things from the 1980s are making a comeback, and Carhartt was really big in the 80s,” she said.Carhartt was founded in 1889, supplying work wear to railroad workers.“Since then, it has evolved so much,” Pieper said. “Obviously, it’s well known for bib overalls and coats. But they have worked really hard to renovate their line to fit more with the youth while maintaining the durability and sustainability that Carhartt is always known for,” Pieper said.One of the newest innovations that impresses Pieper is the Sun Defender long-sleeve shirt that can be worn in the summertime.“It actually has more sun protection than most of your sun lotion that you put on,” Pieper said.The cool kids in New York City started wearing domestic Carhartt products around 2020, and it has had a hip-hop connection since the 1990s.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/5/1715884858350.jpeg" alt="Photo by John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Photo by John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>Tommy Boy Records bought 800 Carhartt jackets, added its logo, and gave them to acts, including House of Pain who wore them in their video for “Jump Around.”“It’s actually beautiful to see all these young kids coming in, and it’s nice to show them all the different products and even show them things that they didn’t even know were out here,” she said.The PandemicRachel Neil, lead designer and manager of Standard of Beaverdale’s kitchen and bath department, said the COVID-19 pandemic impacted Standard of Beaverdale.It made the store busier than ever. It seemed like everybody who was stuck in their home wanted to remodel it. And that’s exactly what Standard of Beaverdale specializes in.“It was overwhelming. But it’s nice to be busy. We have four designers here, three full-time, and we’re all just extremely busy,” Neil said.There were plenty of material shortages, but it didn’t impede business.“It worked out, and it was great for us. I mean, nobody enjoyed the pandemic, but it was great for business,” Neil said.Neil said sage green and blues are really popular in kitchen design right now. Ten years ago, Standard of Beaverdale expanded the shop with a second story dedicated entirely to kitchen and bath design.As far as fixtures and hardware colors, the black matte is where it’s at.&nbsp;“I don’t feel like it’s trending, I feel like it’s going to be popular forever,” Neil said. “The older generations are still drawn to honey oak.”Neil said the second floor is just one stop on a complete home renovation that can be completely done in-store.“We keep everything here, as far as any type of material that you would need. We’ve got many contractors that we can recommend to clients. We pride ourselves on customer service,” she said. “We’re there from the beginning to the end.”Service Since 1970Standard of Beaverdale opened its doors in 1970. Since then, the locally-owned lumberyard and construction material dealer has offered custom building and home design services.“You can literally walk in here with a piece of land and, you know, buy everything you need to build the house, furnish the house,” said Ben Dobson, appliance store manager for Standard of Beaverdale.Dobson said the latest trend for washing machines and other appliances is “smart appliances.” Those would be appliances you can run from your smartphone, such as setting the oven to preheat for a pizza you can scan at a grocery store.Dobson said they are nice, but not all rural customers have fast internet access. He stands behind sturdier and more trusted brands — such as Speed Queen washing machines — that are sold in the store.“Speed Queen is the tried-and-true good product, and that’s something we have tried to kind of change the mentality. We want stuff that is going to work for the customer. Stuff that is going to last,” Dobson said.That doesn’t just apply to washing machines. It’s a store-wide standard of excellence.“We employ our delivery guys, and our service guys work for the store. We’re not bringing outside people into your home. If you have a delivery issue, you can call me and I can sit down with the guys and say, ‘Why did this happen?’ A lot of box stores are going to third-party contractors now,” Dobson said.

Standard of Quality

Traces offers sustainable clothing and an upscale resale shop

Tracy Dunn started her&nbsp;Traces Boutique business on Earth Day, April 22, 2021.

It was an online-only business, offering environmentally friendly products from her kitchen. Soon, she was doing pop-ups at Corked 101.

Four months later, Dunn bought the Fiber Addicts store at 403 Jefferson St., and she marked her business’s third anniversary this past week.

“Everything is sustainable in nature,” Dunn said of all her products and clothing items, “either how it’s made or where it’s made or what it’s made from.”

There are three prongs to sustainability, she said: “Environment, economics, and ethics.

“You need people to be able to put into the economy,” Dunn said of the second part. “There needs to be economics and be able to sustainably run without affecting the other two prongs.”

She then said, “Ethics is a big one that a lot of people are focusing on. It’s a fair wage, fair trade.”

As an example, she used “that horrible brand Shein. You can get boxes and boxes of clothing for a hundred bucks. It is so cheaply made,” Dunn said. “But all of their workers are extremely underpaid.”

“The owner has women in Nepal at a sewing center,” Dunn said. “These women used to be trafficked. But now, in the sewing center, they’re getting a fair wage, so they can be put back in the economy.”

The clothing is environmentally friendly as the owner uses deadstock, the last bits of fabric, Dunn said, and she noted that a portion of the purchase price goes back to shelters for human trafficking victims.

Another company, Certified B Corporation, offers certificates that give a stamp of approval many companies seek out.

“They have to go under stringent environmental, ethical, and economic data collection,” Dunn said. Certified B “goes looking all through their supply chain, their water usage. All of those sorts of things that people care about for the environment,” Dunn said.

The upscale resale section is to avoid the wasteful “Fast Fashion” that several stores are promoting.

“They bring out clothing every week,” Dunn said, instead of marketing for the four seasons. You wear it once or twice and then throw it out.

“Putting more clothing into the world is a stressful thing,” she said.

Dunn resells well-made clothing items that may be “medium-speed fashion. We want to give them a new life,” she said.

That’s why she keeps her inventory small but with multiple sizes.

“We just have brands that are made very well,” Dunn said. “I’ve got pants that I’ve had for three years, and they don’t look like I’ve had them for more than three months. You can be sustainable and still look fabulous.”

The store is open Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dunn has a full-time job as engineering manager at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant.

Dunn has around 20 name brands. The best-sellers are her Conscious Steps socks.

The unisex socks come in a variety of “really fun” patterns, Dunn said, but the main selling point is the charity the purchase supports.

If you buy “socks that save cats,” proceeds go to the Best Friends Association. If you buy “socks that support mental health” the company gives a portion of the sale to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

“Everybody has a different charity they’re involved in,” Dunn said.

Another interesting product is plantable cards by Artsy Em. “It’s seed paper,” Dunn said.

It’s blank on the inside, so you add your own greeting. After reading the card, the recipient soaks it in water and plants it to become flowers. “Bee food,” she said. “It’s its waste stream.”

Dunn donates a portion of each purchase to plant a tree.

“We’re working on planting an entire mangrove forest in East Africa,” Dunn said.

Dunn is aware that “sustainability is a very personal goal. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.”

One customer wanted to buy sandals for her daughter-in-law, who refuses to wear leather.

So Dunn said that would rule out the hand-made, hand-beaded sandals from Africa.

“Let’s go find a different pair of recycled tire sandals,” Dunn said.

Some don’t want cotton products. Some only want products made in America.

“We’re trying to appeal to a wide variety of consumers to help start their sustainability journey,” Dunn said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2024/5/1715090925670.jpeg" alt="Photo by John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Photo by John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>Traces offers sustainable clothing and an upscale resale shopBy Chris FaulknerTracy Dunn started her&nbsp;Traces Boutique business on Earth Day, April 22, 2021.It was an online-only business, offering environmentally friendly products from her kitchen. Soon, she was doing pop-ups at Corked 101.Four months later, Dunn bought the Fiber Addicts store at 403 Jefferson St., and she marked her business’s third anniversary this past week.“Everything is sustainable in nature,” Dunn said of all her products and clothing items, “either how it’s made or where it’s made or what it’s made from.”There are three prongs to sustainability, she said: “Environment, economics, and ethics.“You need people to be able to put into the economy,” Dunn said of the second part. “There needs to be economics and be able to sustainably run without affecting the other two prongs.”She then said, “Ethics is a big one that a lot of people are focusing on. It’s a fair wage, fair trade.”As an example, she used “that horrible brand Shein. You can get boxes and boxes of clothing for a hundred bucks. It is so cheaply made,” Dunn said. “But all of their workers are extremely underpaid.”In contrast is the Elegant Tees brand.“The owner has women in Nepal at a sewing center,” Dunn said. “These women used to be trafficked. But now, in the sewing center, they’re getting a fair wage, so they can be put back in the economy.”The clothing is environmentally friendly as the owner uses deadstock, the last bits of fabric, Dunn said, and she noted that a portion of the purchase price goes back to shelters for human trafficking victims.Another company, Certified B Corporation, offers certificates that give a stamp of approval many companies seek out.“They have to go under stringent environmental, ethical, and economic data collection,” Dunn said. Certified B “goes looking all through their supply chain, their water usage. All of those sorts of things that people care about for the environment,” Dunn said.The upscale resale section is to avoid the wasteful “Fast Fashion” that several stores are promoting.“They bring out clothing every week,” Dunn said, instead of marketing for the four seasons. You wear it once or twice and then throw it out.“Putting more clothing into the world is a stressful thing,” she said.Dunn resells well-made clothing items that may be “medium-speed fashion. We want to give them a new life,” she said.That’s why she keeps her inventory small but with multiple sizes.“We just have brands that are made very well,” Dunn said. “I’ve got pants that I’ve had for three years, and they don’t look like I’ve had them for more than three months. You can be sustainable and still look fabulous.”The store is open Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dunn has a full-time job as engineering manager at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant.Socks Are A Big SellerDunn has around 20 name brands. The best-sellers are her Conscious Steps socks.The unisex socks come in a variety of “really fun” patterns, Dunn said, but the main selling point is the charity the purchase supports.If you buy “socks that save cats,” proceeds go to the Best Friends Association. If you buy “socks that support mental health” the company gives a portion of the sale to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.“Everybody has a different charity they’re involved in,” Dunn said.Another interesting product is plantable cards by Artsy Em. “It’s seed paper,” Dunn said.It’s blank on the inside, so you add your own greeting. After reading the card, the recipient soaks it in water and plants it to become flowers. “Bee food,” she said. “It’s its waste stream.”Dunn donates a portion of each purchase to plant a tree.“We’re working on planting an entire mangrove forest in East Africa,” Dunn said.Dunn is aware that “sustainability is a very personal goal. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.”One customer wanted to buy sandals for her daughter-in-law, who refuses to wear leather.So Dunn said that would rule out the hand-made, hand-beaded sandals from Africa.“Let’s go find a different pair of recycled tire sandals,” Dunn said.Some don’t want cotton products. Some only want products made in America.“We’re trying to appeal to a wide variety of consumers to help start their sustainability journey,” Dunn said.Dunn earned her mechanical engineering degree at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, Ind. But during that time, “when I was supposed to be studying, I would look through Pinterest. I had an idea of starting my own business, and it was a clothing store,” she said.It took a while for that seed of sustainability to germinate, but now that it has, Dunn said, “It was a whirlwind how it all came together.“I wasn’t expecting it to grow and expand and be what it is,” Dunn said. “Right now, I’m just riding the wave.”Dunn said the whole point of this “is to bring sustainability to light.”She said her favorite quote, posted in her storefront window, is, “We don’t need a million people doing sustainability perfectly. We need a million people doing it imperfectly.”