Tom and Linda Jones are big fans of “Our Iowa” magazine.

But they never expected to be featured in it.

Tom and Linda live on an acreage north of Burlington off Highway 99 and were honored in the June/July edition of the magazine as having one of the “prettiest farms in Iowa.”

“We just never thought our farm was good enough to be in the magazine,” Tom said.

Friends had been telling them they should nominate themselves, but the Jones’ never did. Instead, “Our Iowa” magazine came to them – by accident.

“It’s the funniest story,” Linda said.

One of the Jones’ neighbors had been nominated, and an employee of the magazine drove out there to check it out. The farm didn’t fit the criteria for the magazine.&nbsp;

When the topic of flowers came up during the assessment, the neighbor told the magazine they should check out the flowers down the road at the Jones farm.

Flowers festoon the Jones’ property – including 200 unique varieties of daylilies created through cross-breeding. Linda is a certified Master Gardener through Iowa State University, and Tom might as well be.

“I’ve registered about 180 (of the unique varieties of daylilies),” Tom said. “There are about 90,000 varieties registered on the database.”

The Jones understand the nature of balance, which is reflected in their farmstead. The flowers are beautiful, but not overpopulated. The grass is natural, full of dandelions. Potatoes and other vegetables grow in raised vegetable beds, which possess a beauty of their own.

Tom, a Cedar Falls native, met Linda while they were attending college at the University of Northern Iowa. He was a business major while she was studying education.

They married in 1974 and decided to return to Linda’s family farm on the outskirts of Burlington. That’s the farm they live on today.

“Our home sits on the land that was purchased in 1947 when my dad, Wayne Kester, came home from the service and married my mother, Pauline,” Linda said in the “Our Iowa” article. “The 80-acre farm had a three-room house with no plumbing and a few outbuildings.”

Linda attended a one-room schoolhouse. As her family grew, her parents purchased another farm about a mile away.

“My grandparents’ farm, which lies across the road from us, was homesteaded by my family in 1848. It was one of the first-century farms to be recognized by the state of Iowa in 1977,” Linda said.

Tom and Linda have carved out about four acres of that for their home.&nbsp;

All the farms Linda mentioned are held in a family trust and farmed by her brother Gary.

The family farm didn’t have plumbing when Linda lived there as a child, and it still didn’t when she returned with her husband.

Starting in 1978, the couple began the monumental task of making the farm their new home.&nbsp;

Tom found a good job at Case (now CNH), which he retired from after 31 years. Linda became a teacher in the Burlington School District, mostly teaching ninth-grade math.

When they weren’t working, they were still working. Tom built their house — made entirely of red cedar — from the ground up.&nbsp;

They lived in the furnished basement as Tom built the house above them, sealing the unfinished structure in the winter. The outhouses were replaced with modern plumbing.

Tom was into green energy before green energy was popular. He had solar panels on the roof in the late 1970s.

“It was a lot of work,” he said.&nbsp;

In the summer, Tom and Linda limit their gardening hours to the morning. Their alarm is set for 5:30 a.m. every day, which gives them time to exercise at the YMCA before getting in the dirt.

But when spring rolls around, both are in the garden from sun-up to sundown.

“There’s a lot to do in the spring,” Tom said.

Linda likes to follow the Master Gardener motto of trying something new in the garden every season, which leads to a lot of trial-and-error innovations. Ways to kill the gnats and white flies on fruit without harming the helpful pollinator insects (yellow plastic drink cups covered in Vaseline).&nbsp;

Buckets of molasses in apple trees kill more harmful insects. But Mother Nature can be a feisty, random foe.

“The raccoons ate all the grapes last year,” Tom said.

Linda is coming up with new ways to foil the local wildlife. But she hasn’t always accounted for the risk imposed by loyal domestic beasts.

“We found out our dogs love tomatoes,” Linda said with a laugh.

Farm Is nothing&nbsp;&nbsp;without family

Tom and Linda will be the first to tell you that they don’t like to sit still for long.

Until they do, of course, sitting on one of the benches Tom hand-carved and guarded by the shade of the pine trees they planted together.

They also long for the not-so-quiet moments when their two adult children return home with their three grandchildren. The laughter when a grandchild picks up one of the tamer barn cats for unexpected pets.

Tom isn’t shy about showing their hard work to friends and strangers. Their two dogs — Adelaide and Sydney — are used to visitors but never tire of greeting them.

“We like to have open houses, where we invite friends and other people over. If you’re going to go to all this work…” he said.

The real highlight of their year, aside from the blooming flowers, arrives in the summer.

“A highlight of each summer is when our three grandchildren stay together at our home,” Linda said.

Their 50th wedding anniversary will be the highlight of 2024. And they won’t be anywhere near the family farm.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/7/1688658698340.jpeg" alt="Tom and Linda Jones are shown in a daylily garden featuring over 217 different varieties on Tuesday, June 27 at their rural Des Moines County home. The couple was recently featured in “Our Iowa” magazine for having one of the prettiest farms in Iowa. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Tom and Linda Jones are shown in a daylily garden featuring over 217 different varieties on Tuesday, June 27 at their rural Des Moines County home. The couple was recently featured in “Our Iowa” magazine for having one of the prettiest farms in Iowa. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By William SmithTom and Linda Jones are big fans of “Our Iowa” magazine.But they never expected to be featured in it.Tom and Linda live on an acreage north of Burlington off Highway 99 and were honored in the June/July edition of the magazine as having one of the “prettiest farms in Iowa.”“We just never thought our farm was good enough to be in the magazine,” Tom said.Friends had been telling them they should nominate themselves, but the Jones’ never did. Instead, “Our Iowa” magazine came to them – by accident.“It’s the funniest story,” Linda said.One of the Jones’ neighbors had been nominated, and an employee of the magazine drove out there to check it out. The farm didn’t fit the criteria for the magazine.&nbsp;When the topic of flowers came up during the assessment, the neighbor told the magazine they should check out the flowers down the road at the Jones farm.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/7/1688658805813.jpeg" alt="A butterfly feeds on a zinnia in a garden. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>A butterfly feeds on a zinnia in a garden. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>Flowers festoon the Jones’ property – including 200 unique varieties of daylilies created through cross-breeding. Linda is a certified Master Gardener through Iowa State University, and Tom might as well be.“I’ve registered about 180 (of the unique varieties of daylilies),” Tom said. “There are about 90,000 varieties registered on the database.”The Jones understand the nature of balance, which is reflected in their farmstead. The flowers are beautiful, but not overpopulated. The grass is natural, full of dandelions. Potatoes and other vegetables grow in raised vegetable beds, which possess a beauty of their own.Family legacyTom, a Cedar Falls native, met Linda while they were attending college at the University of Northern Iowa. He was a business major while she was studying education.They married in 1974 and decided to return to Linda’s family farm on the outskirts of Burlington. That’s the farm they live on today.“Our home sits on the land that was purchased in 1947 when my dad, Wayne Kester, came home from the service and married my mother, Pauline,” Linda said in the “Our Iowa” article. “The 80-acre farm had a three-room house with no plumbing and a few outbuildings.”Linda attended a one-room schoolhouse. As her family grew, her parents purchased another farm about a mile away.“My grandparents’ farm, which lies across the road from us, was homesteaded by my family in 1848. It was one of the first-century farms to be recognized by the state of Iowa in 1977,” Linda said.Tom and Linda have carved out about four acres of that for their home.&nbsp;All the farms Linda mentioned are held in a family trust and farmed by her brother Gary.Updating the farm&nbsp;The family farm didn’t have plumbing when Linda lived there as a child, and it still didn’t when she returned with her husband.Starting in 1978, the couple began the monumental task of making the farm their new home.&nbsp;Tom found a good job at Case (now CNH), which he retired from after 31 years. Linda became a teacher in the Burlington School District, mostly teaching ninth-grade math.When they weren’t working, they were still working. Tom built their house — made entirely of red cedar — from the ground up.&nbsp;They lived in the furnished basement as Tom built the house above them, sealing the unfinished structure in the winter. The outhouses were replaced with modern plumbing.Tom was into green energy before green energy was popular. He had solar panels on the roof in the late 1970s.“It was a lot of work,” he said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/7/1688659095446.jpeg" alt="Linda Jones checks on some grapes that she and her husband Tom grow in their garden. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Linda Jones checks on some grapes that she and her husband Tom grow in their garden. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>Care is the keyIn the summer, Tom and Linda limit their gardening hours to the morning. Their alarm is set for 5:30 a.m. every day, which gives them time to exercise at the YMCA before getting in the dirt.But when spring rolls around, both are in the garden from sun-up to sundown.“There’s a lot to do in the spring,” Tom said.Linda likes to follow the Master Gardener motto of trying something new in the garden every season, which leads to a lot of trial-and-error innovations. Ways to kill the gnats and white flies on fruit without harming the helpful pollinator insects (yellow plastic drink cups covered in Vaseline).&nbsp;Buckets of molasses in apple trees kill more harmful insects. But Mother Nature can be a feisty, random foe.“The raccoons ate all the grapes last year,” Tom said.Linda is coming up with new ways to foil the local wildlife. But she hasn’t always accounted for the risk imposed by loyal domestic beasts.“We found out our dogs love tomatoes,” Linda said with a laugh.Farm Is nothing&nbsp;&nbsp;without familyTom and Linda will be the first to tell you that they don’t like to sit still for long.Until they do, of course, sitting on one of the benches Tom hand-carved and guarded by the shade of the pine trees they planted together.They also long for the not-so-quiet moments when their two adult children return home with their three grandchildren. The laughter when a grandchild picks up one of the tamer barn cats for unexpected pets.Tom isn’t shy about showing their hard work to friends and strangers. Their two dogs — Adelaide and Sydney — are used to visitors but never tire of greeting them.“We like to have open houses, where we invite friends and other people over. If you’re going to go to all this work…” he said.The real highlight of their year, aside from the blooming flowers, arrives in the summer.“A highlight of each summer is when our three grandchildren stay together at our home,” Linda said.Their 50th wedding anniversary will be the highlight of 2024. And they won’t be anywhere near the family farm.&nbsp;They’ll be in Jamaica for two weeks.“Just the two of us,” Linda said.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/7/1688658922515.jpeg" alt="Above: Tom and Linda Jones are shown in a daylily garden on Tuesday, June 27 at their rural Des Moines County home." />
 <figcaption>Above: Tom and Linda Jones are shown in a daylily garden on Tuesday, June 27 at their rural Des Moines County home.</figcaption>
 </figure>

52 Faces: Praise grows for local farm couple

Two years ago, the state of Iowa made it impossible for cities and counties to ban the sale of fireworks.

The new law has proven to be a headache not only for Burlington Fire Chief Matt Trexel, but the city at large. You can freely buy them at several tents around town, but it’s still illegal to shoot fireworks in Burlington.

“The first offense (for shooting fireworks) is up to a $750 fine,” Burlington Police Chief Marc Denney said.

The fireworks tents are open now and have undergone inspections by the Burlington Fire Department. Trexel addressed the process during the Burlington City Council meeting Monday night.

“The fire marshal (Mark Crooks) goes over as soon as they’re open. He’s going to try to get them to put up a sign that says ‘Consumer fireworks use is not legal in Burlington,” Trexel said.

Trexel said the state highly regulates fireworks stands, meaning the city cannot attach additional ordinances. When fireworks were legalized in Iowa in 2017, local governments initially retained control over fireworks sales.

“The only thing we get to do are the inspections because we volunteer to do them. If we don’t do them, the state will do them. But there are so many tents,” Trexel said.&nbsp;

“You can’t keep them from opening. You have to allow them to open, and then we choose to do the inspection.”

The law allowing fireworks stands went into effect right before the Fourth of July holiday in 2021, and fireworks calls exploded.

“I mean, over the last two years in a row, it’s really been a mess. We had to shut down Circle K on Maple and shut down their pumps,” said Sgt. Chad Zahn, public information officer for the Burlington Police Department.

The increased use of fireworks resulted in a garage fire on Highland Avenue as the clock ticked to midnight on July 5, 2021.

“Before it was done, nine other properties were damaged,” Crooks said. “It resulted in $200,000 of losses to the insurance companies.”

The next year, in 2022, the Burlington Fire Department responded to two house fires caused by fireworks.

“From May 1 to July 31, we had two structure fires, two property damage calls, three brush fires, and a dumpster fire, all caused by fireworks,” Crooks said.

That wasn’t the only damage done. Zahn said. A man severely injured at least one of his hands last year while setting off an explosive firework.

“An officer responded and applied a tourniquet to his hand. It just ruined his hand,” Zahn said.

Zahn said the Burlington Police Department received 209 fireworks calls during the Fourth of July period (roughly a month) in 2021. That dropped to 126 last year, which he said is still an unmanageable number.

“When you figure the number of officers working at a time, and the other calls they’re trying to handle – it’s impossible to respond to 126 calls,” Zahn said.

The $750 ticket is stiff but can be tricky to enforce.

“We have to see them ignite it, or have evidence that they ignited it,” Zahn said.&nbsp;

“A fireworks call isn’t a priority call necessarily, so if we’re on another call, it may be 15 or 20 minutes before we get to that fireworks call.”

Trexel said the best way to curb illegal firework usage is through education. He doesn’t expect the general populace to keep track of Iowa’s changing laws.

That’s why he’s making a concentrated effort to get the word out through any media available. He also likes to remind the public that fireworks can be downright terrifying for pets and those suffering from PTSD — especially war veterans.

“I think there’s a certain amount of the population that doesn’t realize that they can go to Hy-Vee and buy fireworks in the tent, but you can’t use them (in the city),” Trexel said.

The expression “fireworks or gunshots?” has become an axiom for social media.&nbsp;

Gunshots and fireworks can be hard to differentiate, leading citizens to ask in Facebook posts if they just heard a gunshot or a loud explosive.

Trexel said it’s a problem not only for the police department but for the fire department as well.&nbsp;

Trying to find a fire in a bank of firework fog isn’t easy. Even though fireworks fires have only resulted in property damage so far, it could be worse.

“It’s harder for everybody to direct their resources properly,” Trexel said.

City manager Chad Bird is urging anyone with the desire to see fireworks on the Fourth of July to attend one of the local, professional displays.&nbsp;

He pointed to the West Burlington Fourth of July celebration as a great way to do that. The fireworks display, always set for 10:01 p.m. the night of July Fourth, is an example of cooperation between Burlington and West Burlington.

“The fireworks are actually shot off in Burlington because we issue the permit for that here, but it’s shot off by West Burlington and is for the city of West Burlington,” Bird said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/7/1688394085986.jpeg" alt="Colby Peukert, with Castle Fireworks, of Macon, Mo., makes sure that display tables are properly distanced on Tuesday, June 20 in a fireworks sales tent in Burlington. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Colby Peukert, with Castle Fireworks, of Macon, Mo., makes sure that display tables are properly distanced on Tuesday, June 20 in a fireworks sales tent in Burlington. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By William SmithTwo years ago, the state of Iowa made it impossible for cities and counties to ban the sale of fireworks.The new law has proven to be a headache not only for Burlington Fire Chief Matt Trexel, but the city at large. You can freely buy them at several tents around town, but it’s still illegal to shoot fireworks in Burlington.“The first offense (for shooting fireworks) is up to a $750 fine,” Burlington Police Chief Marc Denney said.The fireworks tents are open now and have undergone inspections by the Burlington Fire Department. Trexel addressed the process during the Burlington City Council meeting Monday night.“The fire marshal (Mark Crooks) goes over as soon as they’re open. He’s going to try to get them to put up a sign that says ‘Consumer fireworks use is not legal in Burlington,” Trexel said.Trexel said the state highly regulates fireworks stands, meaning the city cannot attach additional ordinances. When fireworks were legalized in Iowa in 2017, local governments initially retained control over fireworks sales.“The only thing we get to do are the inspections because we volunteer to do them. If we don’t do them, the state will do them. But there are so many tents,” Trexel said.&nbsp;“You can’t keep them from opening. You have to allow them to open, and then we choose to do the inspection.”More fireworksThe law allowing fireworks stands went into effect right before the Fourth of July holiday in 2021, and fireworks calls exploded.“I mean, over the last two years in a row, it’s really been a mess. We had to shut down Circle K on Maple and shut down their pumps,” said Sgt. Chad Zahn, public information officer for the Burlington Police Department.The increased use of fireworks resulted in a garage fire on Highland Avenue as the clock ticked to midnight on July 5, 2021.“Before it was done, nine other properties were damaged,” Crooks said. “It resulted in $200,000 of losses to the insurance companies.”The next year, in 2022, the Burlington Fire Department responded to two house fires caused by fireworks.“From May 1 to July 31, we had two structure fires, two property damage calls, three brush fires, and a dumpster fire, all caused by fireworks,” Crooks said.That wasn’t the only damage done. Zahn said. A man severely injured at least one of his hands last year while setting off an explosive firework.“An officer responded and applied a tourniquet to his hand. It just ruined his hand,” Zahn said.Zahn said the Burlington Police Department received 209 fireworks calls during the Fourth of July period (roughly a month) in 2021. That dropped to 126 last year, which he said is still an unmanageable number.“When you figure the number of officers working at a time, and the other calls they’re trying to handle – it’s impossible to respond to 126 calls,” Zahn said.The $750 ticket is stiff but can be tricky to enforce.“We have to see them ignite it, or have evidence that they ignited it,” Zahn said.&nbsp;“A fireworks call isn’t a priority call necessarily, so if we’re on another call, it may be 15 or 20 minutes before we get to that fireworks call.”Enforcement&nbsp;Trexel said the best way to curb illegal firework usage is through education. He doesn’t expect the general populace to keep track of Iowa’s changing laws.That’s why he’s making a concentrated effort to get the word out through any media available. He also likes to remind the public that fireworks can be downright terrifying for pets and those suffering from PTSD — especially war veterans.“I think there’s a certain amount of the population that doesn’t realize that they can go to Hy-Vee and buy fireworks in the tent, but you can’t use them (in the city),” Trexel said.Fireworks or gunshots?The expression “fireworks or gunshots?” has become an axiom for social media.&nbsp;Gunshots and fireworks can be hard to differentiate, leading citizens to ask in Facebook posts if they just heard a gunshot or a loud explosive.Trexel said it’s a problem not only for the police department but for the fire department as well.&nbsp;Trying to find a fire in a bank of firework fog isn’t easy. Even though fireworks fires have only resulted in property damage so far, it could be worse.“It’s harder for everybody to direct their resources properly,” Trexel said.City manager Chad Bird is urging anyone with the desire to see fireworks on the Fourth of July to attend one of the local, professional displays.&nbsp;He pointed to the West Burlington Fourth of July celebration as a great way to do that. The fireworks display, always set for 10:01 p.m. the night of July Fourth, is an example of cooperation between Burlington and West Burlington.“The fireworks are actually shot off in Burlington because we issue the permit for that here, but it’s shot off by West Burlington and is for the city of West Burlington,” Bird said.

Officials brace for fireworks use, urge safety

Mediapolis native Autumn Fjeld was just a hair’s breadth away from becoming Miss Iowa.

The 24-year-old lives in Burlington and works as a care manager for the Title 1 youth program, which provides financial assistance to local schools with a high number of children from low-income families.

Fjeld just started competing in pageants a couple of years ago, and there’s a lot more to it than she thought.

“I didn’t grow up in the pageant system. I had this misconception that it’s all physical looks and appearance,” she said.

That’s part of it, of course. But the pageant scene revolves around self-confidence, which translates to real life. When you carry yourself as a prospective queen, it’s easier to be more comfortable in tense situations.

“Fake it until you make it. I had to get rid of that barrier where I thought I had to sound like someone else. I got over that fear, and that’s when I started showing my best on stage,” she said.

To enter the Miss Iowa Pageant, prospective queens have to be the queen of a local pageant. Fjeld went to Miss Iowa as Miss Clinton County, where she splits her community service work with Burlington.

Fjeld competed in Miss Iowa last year, as well, and took home an award for her violin playing. Every contestant has a featured talent, and Fjeld has worked on her talent for the past 18 years.

Her rendition of “Devil Went Down to Georgia” impressed the judges this year, which helped put Fjeld in the top three.

“It was a really incredible feeling,” she said.

This year’s Miss Iowa contest was held last month in Davenport over three days, and Fjeld came away from the competition with new friends and a second runner-up trophy.

Fjeld graduated from Mediapolis High School in 2017 and was active in everything from cross country to soccer. She hasn’t had much time for hobbies.&nbsp;

“I embody everything that I am and put it on stage,” she said.

Fjeld isn’t done yet. Though she won’t be competing in the Miss Burlington competition this August, she does hope to snag a title at some local pageant in Iowa and compete again next year.&nbsp;

That’s up to the judges. Their tastes are never uniform and usually impossible to predict.

“Pageants are like candy. One judge may want Skittles, and another judge may want M&amp;Ms. That’s the mindset you go in to win,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/7/1688351061126.jpeg" alt="Mediapolis native and Burlington resident Autumn Fjeld, 24, receives the overall talent award at Miss Iowa for the second year in a row. The three-day event was held in Davenport on June 24, and Fjeld placed second runner-up overall." />
 <figcaption>Mediapolis native and Burlington resident Autumn Fjeld, 24, receives the overall talent award at Miss Iowa for the second year in a row. The three-day event was held in Davenport on June 24, and Fjeld placed second runner-up overall.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Beacon StaffMediapolis native Autumn Fjeld was just a hair’s breadth away from becoming Miss Iowa.The 24-year-old lives in Burlington and works as a care manager for the Title 1 youth program, which provides financial assistance to local schools with a high number of children from low-income families.Fjeld just started competing in pageants a couple of years ago, and there’s a lot more to it than she thought.“I didn’t grow up in the pageant system. I had this misconception that it’s all physical looks and appearance,” she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/7/1688351085310.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>That’s part of it, of course. But the pageant scene revolves around self-confidence, which translates to real life. When you carry yourself as a prospective queen, it’s easier to be more comfortable in tense situations.“Fake it until you make it. I had to get rid of that barrier where I thought I had to sound like someone else. I got over that fear, and that’s when I started showing my best on stage,” she said.To enter the Miss Iowa Pageant, prospective queens have to be the queen of a local pageant. Fjeld went to Miss Iowa as Miss Clinton County, where she splits her community service work with Burlington.Fjeld competed in Miss Iowa last year, as well, and took home an award for her violin playing. Every contestant has a featured talent, and Fjeld has worked on her talent for the past 18 years.Her rendition of “Devil Went Down to Georgia” impressed the judges this year, which helped put Fjeld in the top three.“It was a really incredible feeling,” she said.This year’s Miss Iowa contest was held last month in Davenport over three days, and Fjeld came away from the competition with new friends and a second runner-up trophy.Fjeld graduated from Mediapolis High School in 2017 and was active in everything from cross country to soccer. She hasn’t had much time for hobbies.&nbsp;Fjeld wouldn’t have it any other way.“I embody everything that I am and put it on stage,” she said.Fjeld isn’t done yet. Though she won’t be competing in the Miss Burlington competition this August, she does hope to snag a title at some local pageant in Iowa and compete again next year.&nbsp;That’s up to the judges. Their tastes are never uniform and usually impossible to predict.“Pageants are like candy. One judge may want Skittles, and another judge may want M&amp;Ms. That’s the mindset you go in to win,” she said.

Mediapolis native nearly became Miss Iowa – and she’s not done yet

When she began her wig shop, Today’s Modern Hair Option, there was no other shop like it in Burlington — there still isn’t.

Cline also helped found the annual Des Moines County Relay for Life 20 years ago. She lost a sister to cancer a few years before that and lost an aunt shortly before she began volunteering.&nbsp;

“I was one of the original people planning it. We used to have it at Bracewell Stadium,” Cline said.

Despite her connection to cancer and the help she has provided countless patients going through chemotherapy, that’s not what initially drew Kline to the wig business.

It was her passion for styling hair. Just not the kind of hair she first imagined.&nbsp;

“I wasn’t planning on doing this for the rest of my life,” Cline said.

But what started as a job became a career. She can’t imagine doing anything else.

“I really enjoy what I do,” Cline said.

A native of the Gladstone, Ill., area, Cline worked for a factory after high school. But she had a knack for designing clothes and styling hair.

After a few years of factory work, Cline moved to California and attended beauty school. She only needed 1,600 hours to qualify for the test to become a licensed cosmetologist in California, and she would have needed 2,100 hours in Iowa.

But the tests were only administered twice a year, and Cline had to wait five months after finishing her hours.&nbsp;

She was living by herself and needed to work. So she applied to a beauty supply company.

Wigs were part of the company’s beauty supply line, and they were all made of human hair back then.&nbsp;

She had purchased a wig before applying for the job, to practice on. She had waist-length hair, and the short wig (they were all short back then) allowed Cline to practice cutting bangs.

Cline got the job and started holding wig parties to sell the product. Wigs were ubiquitous then — so common that you could buy them with your groceries at Hy-Vee for $5, Cline said.

Synthetic wigs changed the game, extending the variety and styles available. Wigs made of real hair quickly became an outdated niche.

Cline opened her wig shop in 1970 — the same year her second son was born. She moved to several downtown locations over the years, and her children helped in the shop in their younger years.

Cline eventually expanded and hired her own employees.

“They (Cline’s children) didn’t want to be in the wig shop working for Mom,” Cline said with a laugh.&nbsp;

Cline expanded her business into turbans, which were becoming a popular alternative for cancer patients who didn’t want to wear wigs all the time. Cline’s hand-sewn turbans were far sturdier than many of the options on the market. She grew up with a sewing machine in the house.

“We were used to hand-me-downs and clothing people gave us,” Cline said.

Cline said her family endured two fires as she was growing up, which accounted for much of the donated clothing. She grew up with 10 siblings — seven more girls and three boys.

“I would take those clothes apart and make other clothes,” Cline said. “What I really wanted to do was be a designer.”

The turbans were a hit. It was just a matter of finding the customers.

“We didn’t have an oncology doctor here when I first started, but we had a doctor in Iowa City. He would come down here because there were no turbans available at the time,” she said.

Cline connected to her sales rep at Eva Gabor (which still supplies Cline with wigs today) and took the turban idea nationwide.

“He had the whole eastern US, like New Jersey, all the way the way across to Minnesota and across that territory,” Cline said. “I probably had six girls working for me sewing wigs or sewing the turbans.”

That sales rep ended up with another wig company in Florida, but he kept selling Cline’s turbans.

“He got canned because he was selling my turbans while he was supposed to be selling their product,” Cline said.

For many of Cline’s customers, the need for a wig can be very personal and private.&nbsp;

“I keep card files on everybody and ship them their wig,” she said.

Most of those customers are women (Cline has about 10 male clients), and the first fitting session can last up to three hours.

“I want them to be able to put it on correctly, by themselves, before they leave here,” she said.

It’s not as easy as it sounds. Modern wigs, ranging in price from $50 to over $350, have a simulated scalp.&nbsp;

There is mesh netting underneath, though the higher-quality wigs tend to be much lighter.

Then there are the ear tabs, which pull down the wig. Tucking them back under the wig can be a real pain if you don’t know how to do it correctly.

Cline has off-the-rack options as well, good for a night on the town, or a change of style. Many women with thinning hair are starting to favor hair clip-style wigs that thicken the appearance of their natural hair.

“A lot of women have female pattern baldness. So it’s just a variety of everything,” Cline said.

Between her work with Relay for Life and her job helping others feel good about themselves, Cline is a vital asset to many local lives. She doesn’t take the responsibility lightly.

“I would like to retire. But I don’t want to leave my customers because they come from all over,” Cline said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/6/1687995242004.jpeg" alt="Kathi Cline, the owner of Today’s Modern Hair Option, is shown Wednesday, June 21 at her downtown Burlington business. Cline has been in business for 53 years offering wigs, turbans, head wraps, halo hair, and extensions for men, women, and children. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Kathi Cline, the owner of Today’s Modern Hair Option, is shown Wednesday, June 21 at her downtown Burlington business. Cline has been in business for 53 years offering wigs, turbans, head wraps, halo hair, and extensions for men, women, and children. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By William SmithKathi Cline is an original.When she began her wig shop, Today’s Modern Hair Option, there was no other shop like it in Burlington — there still isn’t.Cline also helped found the annual Des Moines County Relay for Life 20 years ago. She lost a sister to cancer a few years before that and lost an aunt shortly before she began volunteering.&nbsp;“I was one of the original people planning it. We used to have it at Bracewell Stadium,” Cline said.Despite her connection to cancer and the help she has provided countless patients going through chemotherapy, that’s not what initially drew Kline to the wig business.It was her passion for styling hair. Just not the kind of hair she first imagined.&nbsp;“I wasn’t planning on doing this for the rest of my life,” Cline said.But what started as a job became a career. She can’t imagine doing anything else.“I really enjoy what I do,” Cline said.Quest to be a stylistA native of the Gladstone, Ill., area, Cline worked for a factory after high school. But she had a knack for designing clothes and styling hair.After a few years of factory work, Cline moved to California and attended beauty school. She only needed 1,600 hours to qualify for the test to become a licensed cosmetologist in California, and she would have needed 2,100 hours in Iowa.But the tests were only administered twice a year, and Cline had to wait five months after finishing her hours.&nbsp;She was living by herself and needed to work. So she applied to a beauty supply company.Wigs were part of the company’s beauty supply line, and they were all made of human hair back then.&nbsp;She had purchased a wig before applying for the job, to practice on. She had waist-length hair, and the short wig (they were all short back then) allowed Cline to practice cutting bangs.Cline got the job and started holding wig parties to sell the product. Wigs were ubiquitous then — so common that you could buy them with your groceries at Hy-Vee for $5, Cline said.Synthetic wigs changed the game, extending the variety and styles available. Wigs made of real hair quickly became an outdated niche.Sewing turbansCline opened her wig shop in 1970 — the same year her second son was born. She moved to several downtown locations over the years, and her children helped in the shop in their younger years.Cline eventually expanded and hired her own employees.“They (Cline’s children) didn’t want to be in the wig shop working for Mom,” Cline said with a laugh.&nbsp;Cline expanded her business into turbans, which were becoming a popular alternative for cancer patients who didn’t want to wear wigs all the time. Cline’s hand-sewn turbans were far sturdier than many of the options on the market. She grew up with a sewing machine in the house.“We were used to hand-me-downs and clothing people gave us,” Cline said.Cline said her family endured two fires as she was growing up, which accounted for much of the donated clothing. She grew up with 10 siblings — seven more girls and three boys.“I would take those clothes apart and make other clothes,” Cline said. “What I really wanted to do was be a designer.”The turbans were a hit. It was just a matter of finding the customers.“We didn’t have an oncology doctor here when I first started, but we had a doctor in Iowa City. He would come down here because there were no turbans available at the time,” she said.Traveling turbansCline connected to her sales rep at Eva Gabor (which still supplies Cline with wigs today) and took the turban idea nationwide.“He had the whole eastern US, like New Jersey, all the way the way across to Minnesota and across that territory,” Cline said. “I probably had six girls working for me sewing wigs or sewing the turbans.”That sales rep ended up with another wig company in Florida, but he kept selling Cline’s turbans.“He got canned because he was selling my turbans while he was supposed to be selling their product,” Cline said.Hair optionsAlopecia. Cancer. Male pattern baldness.For many of Cline’s customers, the need for a wig can be very personal and private.&nbsp;“I keep card files on everybody and ship them their wig,” she said.Most of those customers are women (Cline has about 10 male clients), and the first fitting session can last up to three hours.“I want them to be able to put it on correctly, by themselves, before they leave here,” she said.It’s not as easy as it sounds. Modern wigs, ranging in price from $50 to over $350, have a simulated scalp.&nbsp;There is mesh netting underneath, though the higher-quality wigs tend to be much lighter.Then there are the ear tabs, which pull down the wig. Tucking them back under the wig can be a real pain if you don’t know how to do it correctly.Cline has off-the-rack options as well, good for a night on the town, or a change of style. Many women with thinning hair are starting to favor hair clip-style wigs that thicken the appearance of their natural hair.“A lot of women have female pattern baldness. So it’s just a variety of everything,” Cline said.Between her work with Relay for Life and her job helping others feel good about themselves, Cline is a vital asset to many local lives. She doesn’t take the responsibility lightly.“I would like to retire. But I don’t want to leave my customers because they come from all over,” Cline said.

52 Faces: Building self-esteem one wig at a time

Josh Torres held a house-warming party Sunday in Fort Madison for a home he had never been inside.

Torres is the recipient of the first tiny home built by the Iowa 2x4s for Hope group, led by Lester Kistner and his sister, Stephanie Warner. Both served in the military and work to provide a permanent place to live for homeless veterans.

The rain did not dampen the open house on Sunday morning at 922 29th St., as Fort Madison Mayor Matt Mohrfeld, an honor guard, neighbors, and other community well-wishers watched as Torres got his first look at his new home.

It took less than two weeks to build, and that long only because of a few delays.

Building homes for veterans was a dream of Kistner and Warner for two years, modeling it after a group in Quincy, and it has finally come to fruition. Countless numbers of individuals and businesses provided labor, services, or products.

The 2x4s for Hope recipients do not own the home, but it comes fully furnished and fully stocked with food, and all the veteran pays for is the utilities and future household expenses.

Torres, originally from Pennsylvania, was impressed by the selflessness of the community.&nbsp;

“Everybody reaching out to help everybody. I greatly appreciate that very much. It’s something I will never forget, and it’s something I plan on paying it forward,” he said.

Torres served from 2008-2015 in the Pennsylvania National Guard, serving in Iraq.

“We did multiple missions both day and night,” Torres said. “It was my first deployment, so it was definitely an eye-opener.”

Upon returning stateside, Torres noticed, “Things were getting a little more expensive in Pennsylvania, so I decided to come out and see what life was like out here. I loved it, and I decided to stay.”

He stayed with a friend in Bloomfield, and then, through Veterans Affairs, “They helped put me into a rental until this was done,” Torres said.

Kistner and the group take applications, and Torres was selected for the first home.

Addressing the audience before entering his home, Torres said, “I didn’t serve this country because I felt I had to or because I had an obligation to. I served this country because I love this country, and it’s something I wanted to do to be a bigger part of something other than myself.”

Torres said, “I’ve been in some dark places the last three or four months, but I’m thankful to say that because of the support I have, everything is continuing to look up. I thank God for all the help he’s put before me.

“I thank you all again for your hard work and dedication to do this for veterans.”

At 576 square feet, the home is larger than the traditional 400 square feet tiny homes, but it’s still cozy.

When you first walk in, the kitchen counter and cabinets are to your immediate left, to the right is the dining area and the room flows straight into the living room with a couch, chairs, and a flat-screen TV.&nbsp;

There’s a full bathroom, an office area, and then a bedroom, but the head and foot of the bed are flushing against the walls. A large closet holds the dresser drawers.

“Our goal is to build at least one home in all 99 counties,” Kistner said, adding he plans to reach out to city officials in Burlington. Some businesses that helped with supplies in the Fort Madison home are Burlington-based.

Among the businesses which provided help were: Jim Baier Ford dealership, Shottenkirk Automotive, Farm &amp; Home, U.S. Gypsum, Lowe’s, Johnson Sod Co., JJD Contracting, Decker Construction, Keystone Cabinets, Sherwin Williams, White Oak Painting, Scottie’s Potties, Schulte Plumbing, and Hall’s Excavating.

The 2x4s group bought a lot big enough for two homes, so when the funds are secured in full, Kistner, Warner, and other volunteers will build another home for another homeless vet.

At the open house, a UFCW rep presented a check for $500 to Kistner and Warner toward that next home.

Anyone wishing to help support a home in their area may message Kistner or Warner on the Iowa 2x4s For Hope Facebook page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/6/1687707377646.jpeg" alt="Josh Torres relaxes on the couch in his new home in Fort Madison. Torres had been living with a friend since last September before being chosen to live in the first home built by the Iowa 2x4s for Hope group. Photo/Chris Faulkner" />
 <figcaption>Josh Torres relaxes on the couch in his new home in Fort Madison. Torres had been living with a friend since last September before being chosen to live in the first home built by the Iowa 2x4s for Hope group. Photo/Chris Faulkner</figcaption>
 </figure>By Chris FaulknerJosh Torres held a house-warming party Sunday in Fort Madison for a home he had never been inside.Torres is the recipient of the first tiny home built by the Iowa 2x4s for Hope group, led by Lester Kistner and his sister, Stephanie Warner. Both served in the military and work to provide a permanent place to live for homeless veterans.The rain did not dampen the open house on Sunday morning at 922 29th St., as Fort Madison Mayor Matt Mohrfeld, an honor guard, neighbors, and other community well-wishers watched as Torres got his first look at his new home.It took less than two weeks to build, and that long only because of a few delays.Building homes for veterans was a dream of Kistner and Warner for two years, modeling it after a group in Quincy, and it has finally come to fruition. Countless numbers of individuals and businesses provided labor, services, or products.The 2x4s for Hope recipients do not own the home, but it comes fully furnished and fully stocked with food, and all the veteran pays for is the utilities and future household expenses.Torres, originally from Pennsylvania, was impressed by the selflessness of the community.&nbsp;“Everybody reaching out to help everybody. I greatly appreciate that very much. It’s something I will never forget, and it’s something I plan on paying it forward,” he said.Torres served from 2008-2015 in the Pennsylvania National Guard, serving in Iraq.“We did multiple missions both day and night,” Torres said. “It was my first deployment, so it was definitely an eye-opener.”Upon returning stateside, Torres noticed, “Things were getting a little more expensive in Pennsylvania, so I decided to come out and see what life was like out here. I loved it, and I decided to stay.”He stayed with a friend in Bloomfield, and then, through Veterans Affairs, “They helped put me into a rental until this was done,” Torres said.Kistner and the group take applications, and Torres was selected for the first home.Addressing the audience before entering his home, Torres said, “I didn’t serve this country because I felt I had to or because I had an obligation to. I served this country because I love this country, and it’s something I wanted to do to be a bigger part of something other than myself.”Torres said, “I’ve been in some dark places the last three or four months, but I’m thankful to say that because of the support I have, everything is continuing to look up. I thank God for all the help he’s put before me.“I thank you all again for your hard work and dedication to do this for veterans.”Not tiny, but cozyAt 576 square feet, the home is larger than the traditional 400 square feet tiny homes, but it’s still cozy.When you first walk in, the kitchen counter and cabinets are to your immediate left, to the right is the dining area and the room flows straight into the living room with a couch, chairs, and a flat-screen TV.&nbsp;There’s a full bathroom, an office area, and then a bedroom, but the head and foot of the bed are flushing against the walls. A large closet holds the dresser drawers.“Our goal is to build at least one home in all 99 counties,” Kistner said, adding he plans to reach out to city officials in Burlington. Some businesses that helped with supplies in the Fort Madison home are Burlington-based.Among the businesses which provided help were: Jim Baier Ford dealership, Shottenkirk Automotive, Farm &amp; Home, U.S. Gypsum, Lowe’s, Johnson Sod Co., JJD Contracting, Decker Construction, Keystone Cabinets, Sherwin Williams, White Oak Painting, Scottie’s Potties, Schulte Plumbing, and Hall’s Excavating.The 2x4s group bought a lot big enough for two homes, so when the funds are secured in full, Kistner, Warner, and other volunteers will build another home for another homeless vet.At the open house, a UFCW rep presented a check for $500 to Kistner and Warner toward that next home.Anyone wishing to help support a home in their area may message Kistner or Warner on the Iowa 2x4s For Hope Facebook page.

Giving the gift of shelter to vets

DeJaynes was named Teacher/Staff of the Month for May by The Beacon..

The two most underappreciated jobs in a school system are a tie between the custodial staff and the cafeteria workers.

But Gayle Binder, a cafeteria worker herself, wants the public to know that Ann DeJaynes does a stellar job as head cashier for Aldo Leopold Intermediate School.

“She’s the best boss I’ve ever had,” said Binder of DeJaynes, who is the Burlington Beacon’s Teacher/Staff of the Month for May.

Binder has worked many different jobs over the past 35 years and in the Aldo Leopold cafeteria for just a year.

“I get along with her,” Binder said of DeJaynes. “She’s very personable. She’s direct if she’s got a problem. I really like working with her.”

DeJaynes came to work for Aldo Leopold as a server in 2019.

“Then 2020 happened,” she said, “so I didn’t really come to work for that. I did the summer, and that was about it.”

She returned to work in the 2020-21 school year, but she had to take care of a sick family member and give up her position.

DeJaynes was able to return late in the 2021-22 school year as a cook. But she was soon promoted to lead cashier — the person who runs the cafeteria — and she’s held that for about a year now.

So what’s it like running lunch duty for close to 500 students?

“They have their good days and their bad days,” DeJaynes said. “Most of the time the pretty chipper. Sometimes they don’t want to listen. They want to cut in line.

“But I enjoy just coming into work and talking to them in the morning when they come through for breakfast,” DeJaynes said. “We’ll talk a little bit, and we’ll see them at lunch. You can tell if they’re having a good day or a bad day or what their favorite foods are or whatever.”

She also likes the vacation schedule a school calendar provides, and not just having the summer off.

“The Christmas vacations and things like that,” she said.&nbsp;

“I have grandkids. They want to come to grandma’s house on their vacations, and It’s easier if I’m on vacation too.”

DeJaynes was named Teacher/Staff of the Month for May by The Beacon..<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/6/1687706729988.jpeg" alt="Ann DeJaynes is the head cashier for Aldo Leopold Intermediate School where she interacts with nearly 500 students each day. She was named&nbsp;Teacher/Staff of the Month for May by The Beacon." />
 <figcaption>Ann DeJaynes is the head cashier for Aldo Leopold Intermediate School where she interacts with nearly 500 students each day. She was named&nbsp;Teacher/Staff of the Month for May by The Beacon.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Chris FaulknerThe two most underappreciated jobs in a school system are a tie between the custodial staff and the cafeteria workers.But Gayle Binder, a cafeteria worker herself, wants the public to know that Ann DeJaynes does a stellar job as head cashier for Aldo Leopold Intermediate School.“She’s the best boss I’ve ever had,” said Binder of DeJaynes, who is the Burlington Beacon’s Teacher/Staff of the Month for May.Binder has worked many different jobs over the past 35 years and in the Aldo Leopold cafeteria for just a year.“I get along with her,” Binder said of DeJaynes. “She’s very personable. She’s direct if she’s got a problem. I really like working with her.”DeJaynes came to work for Aldo Leopold as a server in 2019.“Then 2020 happened,” she said, “so I didn’t really come to work for that. I did the summer, and that was about it.”She returned to work in the 2020-21 school year, but she had to take care of a sick family member and give up her position.DeJaynes was able to return late in the 2021-22 school year as a cook. But she was soon promoted to lead cashier — the person who runs the cafeteria — and she’s held that for about a year now.So what’s it like running lunch duty for close to 500 students?“They have their good days and their bad days,” DeJaynes said. “Most of the time the pretty chipper. Sometimes they don’t want to listen. They want to cut in line.“But I enjoy just coming into work and talking to them in the morning when they come through for breakfast,” DeJaynes said. “We’ll talk a little bit, and we’ll see them at lunch. You can tell if they’re having a good day or a bad day or what their favorite foods are or whatever.”She also likes the vacation schedule a school calendar provides, and not just having the summer off.“The Christmas vacations and things like that,” she said.&nbsp;“I have grandkids. They want to come to grandma’s house on their vacations, and It’s easier if I’m on vacation too.”

‘She’s the best boss’

Get ready for an exciting weekend in Burlington.

It all kicks off with the opening of the Young Actors’ production of Todd Wallinger’s “The Enchanted Bookshop” at the Player’s Workshop. Immerse yourself in this captivating story where a seemingly ordinary bookstore transforms into a magical world where book characters come to life after nightfall.&nbsp;

Performances are scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Grab your tickets, priced at $10 for adults and $5 for students, available online or at the Players Workshop box office one hour before each show.

Looking for some live music? From 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, head down to the Fort Madison Area Arts Finale concert series.&nbsp;

The main gallery will feature the talented pianist Vincent Garza, creating a fantastic atmosphere for you to enjoy the incredible art by photographer Mark Wallace. Visit fortmadisonart.com for more details and future event dates. But the music doesn’t stop there. Head to The Washington this Saturday night at 8 p.m. for an energetic show by the Dustin Arbuckle Band, along with special guests Matt Woods and Radoslav Lorkovic.&nbsp;

These seasoned blues and roots musicians will captivate you with their remarkable talent. Tickets are available at the door or online at www.thewashingtonmusic.com.

In the mood for a movie night? Burlington Pride presents the 1995 comedy “To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar” starring Wesley Snipes and Patrick Swayze. Join us at 8 p.m. on Friday at The Capitol Theater. Best of all, admission is free and open to the public.

Calling all young musicians! Are you ready to rock? Burlington-area singers, instrumentalists, and musical groups aged 21 and under are invited to enter the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Music Association’s Iowa Rocks Talent Contest this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Compete for the grand prize: recording time at an Iowa recording studio.&nbsp;

The winners will also have the opportunity to perform live at the Hall of Fame Induction Spectacular on Sept. 3. Visit iowarocknroll.com to submit your entry form today.

To wrap up the weekend in a delightful way, head to Crapo Park on Sunday evening for a Burlington Municipal Band concert. Enjoy ‘Songs and Dances’ — a collection of marches, pops, and songs everyone will recognize — conducted by the talented West Burlington music teacher, Ben Grochowsky.&nbsp;

It’s the perfect way to relax and soak up the beauty of the park. It will be a fantastic weekend filled with entertainment, music, and fun in Burlington!

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/5/1685114175041.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;Elizabeth PappasGet ready for an exciting weekend in Burlington.It all kicks off with the opening of the Young Actors’ production of Todd Wallinger’s “The Enchanted Bookshop” at the Player’s Workshop. Immerse yourself in this captivating story where a seemingly ordinary bookstore transforms into a magical world where book characters come to life after nightfall.&nbsp;Performances are scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Grab your tickets, priced at $10 for adults and $5 for students, available online or at the Players Workshop box office one hour before each show.Looking for some live music? From 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, head down to the Fort Madison Area Arts Finale concert series.&nbsp;The main gallery will feature the talented pianist Vincent Garza, creating a fantastic atmosphere for you to enjoy the incredible art by photographer Mark Wallace. Visit fortmadisonart.com for more details and future event dates. But the music doesn’t stop there. Head to The Washington this Saturday night at 8 p.m. for an energetic show by the Dustin Arbuckle Band, along with special guests Matt Woods and Radoslav Lorkovic.&nbsp;These seasoned blues and roots musicians will captivate you with their remarkable talent. Tickets are available at the door or online at www.thewashingtonmusic.com.In the mood for a movie night? Burlington Pride presents the 1995 comedy “To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar” starring Wesley Snipes and Patrick Swayze. Join us at 8 p.m. on Friday at The Capitol Theater. Best of all, admission is free and open to the public.Calling all young musicians! Are you ready to rock? Burlington-area singers, instrumentalists, and musical groups aged 21 and under are invited to enter the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Music Association’s Iowa Rocks Talent Contest this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Compete for the grand prize: recording time at an Iowa recording studio.&nbsp;The winners will also have the opportunity to perform live at the Hall of Fame Induction Spectacular on Sept. 3. Visit iowarocknroll.com to submit your entry form today.To wrap up the weekend in a delightful way, head to Crapo Park on Sunday evening for a Burlington Municipal Band concert. Enjoy ‘Songs and Dances’ — a collection of marches, pops, and songs everyone will recognize — conducted by the talented West Burlington music teacher, Ben Grochowsky.&nbsp;It’s the perfect way to relax and soak up the beauty of the park. It will be a fantastic weekend filled with entertainment, music, and fun in Burlington!

Plenty of music and a magical book or two

Stacey Abell The Burlington Beacon

There’s something special about reading a book, isn’t there? Even with almost everything available at the touch of a finger, there’s no replacement for holding a creation of paper and ink in your hand and being transported to another world.

And thus, you have the spirit behind the Players Workshop Young Actors’ Production of “The Enchanted Bookshop,” under the direction of Carol Hinkle, assisted by Christine Claeys and Kaitlynn Brog, with Bill Ell serving as producer.&nbsp;

Spend an hour or so browsing the literary selections at A Likely Story, an establishment where beloved characters from children’s literature classics magically come to life each night. Combine the charming but struggling bookshop from “You’ve Got Mail” with the fantastical elements of “Night at the Museum” and you’ll be on the right track.

Koertlynne Korver, 13, appears in her first PW production as the enthusiastic but scatterbrained proprietor, Margie, who is accompanied by her mischievous feline companion, Bombalurina (Regina Critser, 8). Try as she might, Margie doesn’t seem to be able to compete against the allure of the ever-ubiquitous screens, and her shop is on the verge of closing.

Unbeknownst to her, the characters from her books are also aware of her dilemma and want to help. From Dorothy (Aurora Critser, 13) and Toto (Seth Hansen, 7) to Sherlock Holmes (Alexis Roessler, 14) and Robin Hood (Sean Hansen, 13), part of the fun is trying to guess who will appear onstage next.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/6/1687358214100.jpeg" alt="Mason Schaley as Tom Sawyer, Sean Hansen as Robin Hood, Aurora Critser as Dorothy, Alexis Roessler as Sherlock Holmes, Judith Mansheim as Pollyanna, and Lily Newberry as Heidi look on as&nbsp;Fagin, played by Hayli Strange, attempts to pick the lock on a very special book. (Photo by Keith Turrill for The Beacon)" />
 <figcaption>Mason Schaley as Tom Sawyer, Sean Hansen as Robin Hood, Aurora Critser as Dorothy, Alexis Roessler as Sherlock Holmes, Judith Mansheim as Pollyanna, and Lily Newberry as Heidi look on as&nbsp;Fagin, played by Hayli Strange, attempts to pick the lock on a very special book. (Photo by Keith Turrill for The Beacon)</figcaption>
 </figure>Stacey Abell The Burlington BeaconThere’s something special about reading a book, isn’t there? Even with almost everything available at the touch of a finger, there’s no replacement for holding a creation of paper and ink in your hand and being transported to another world.And thus, you have the spirit behind the Players Workshop Young Actors’ Production of “The Enchanted Bookshop,” under the direction of Carol Hinkle, assisted by Christine Claeys and Kaitlynn Brog, with Bill Ell serving as producer.&nbsp;Spend an hour or so browsing the literary selections at A Likely Story, an establishment where beloved characters from children’s literature classics magically come to life each night. Combine the charming but struggling bookshop from “You’ve Got Mail” with the fantastical elements of “Night at the Museum” and you’ll be on the right track.Koertlynne Korver, 13, appears in her first PW production as the enthusiastic but scatterbrained proprietor, Margie, who is accompanied by her mischievous feline companion, Bombalurina (Regina Critser, 8). Try as she might, Margie doesn’t seem to be able to compete against the allure of the ever-ubiquitous screens, and her shop is on the verge of closing.Unbeknownst to her, the characters from her books are also aware of her dilemma and want to help. From Dorothy (Aurora Critser, 13) and Toto (Seth Hansen, 7) to Sherlock Holmes (Alexis Roessler, 14) and Robin Hood (Sean Hansen, 13), part of the fun is trying to guess who will appear onstage next.The would-be heroes and heroines are hindered, however, by two rules given by the Book Fairy (Avery Irish, 10): never leave the building and never be seen by human eyes or be banished to the pages of their books forever!When a mysterious customer (Allyson Hamilton, 10) stashes a stolen necklace among the shelves of books, hilarity and hijinks ensue as two bumbling smugglers (Brady Lenahan and Derrik Martin) attempt to retrieve the treasure. The characters are faced with a challenge: can they protect Margie from danger and save the bookstore without being seen?With a script packed full of jokes, quips, puns, and gags, you’ll find your funny bone tickled and your spirits lifted after going on an adventure with this youthful cast of characters. And you might even find yourself inspired to crack open a book. Performances of “The Enchanted Bookshop” will be held at Players Workshop Theater, 1431 Grove St., on June 23 and 24 at 7 p.m. and on June 25 at 2 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.playersworkshoptheater.com/" target="_blank">www.playersworkshoptheater.com</a>.

Local