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!

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 <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.

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>.

<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>.

"The Enchanted Bookshop" is a delight for all ages

At 56 years old, Rev. Marty Goetz — a Catholic fixture in Des Moines County for the past 11 years — is heading out on a new adventure.

After June 28, Goetz will be the new pastor at Sacred Heart Parish in Newton. He was reassigned by the Catholic Diocese and is excited to meet his new parishioners.

But it will be difficult for Goetz to move his heart out of Burlington and West Burlington. He has been serving the area for the past 11 years, and it has become home.

“I’ve spent over a third of my priesthood here in Burlington,” Goetz said. “This is the longest assignment I’ve ever had.”

It will be a tough move. Goetz has been fighting breast cancer for two years, and it has metastasized through his body. At this point, the cancer has reached stage 4 and is in his bones. He will continue medical treatment at his new assignment, including cancer medications that cost $30,000 monthly, paid by insurance.

“I don’t know if I’m worth $30,000 a month,” the ever-jovial Goetz said with a laugh.

Goetz will be the first to tell you that his job is to lift others up, no matter his struggles. But that relationship with his parishioners and fellow priests is reciprocal — they lift Goetz up.&nbsp;

“I am not alone. They (the parishioners) do the same for me when I’m hurting. And I’m able to share joy and life with them. It’s pretty special,” he said.

For the past four years, Goetz has had to endure a litany of hardships. His father died in 2019. Then COVID-19 turned the world upside down. In 2021, he was diagnosed with cancer. A few months after that, his mother died.

“Through all of that, God is good. He’s good because I’ve seen so many people, people I didn’t even know, have reached out to me and lifted me up in prayer. And this year, some days are easier than others. But you know, God is good. And that’s what’s important,” Goetz said.

Aside from his jovial, slightly mischievous bent, Goetz has long been known as a practical priest. A man of God unafraid to face reality. That is why he takes comfort in Psalms in the Bible.

“I know all about decay in my bones,” he said.

Father Marty Goetz gives the benediction at the Notre Dame High School Class of 2023 graduation ceremony

Goetz knew he wanted to be a priest from a young age.

But it wasn’t God that attracted him to the priesthood. It was a man of God — the late Rev. Martin Diamond — who inspired Goetz to earn the clerical collar. Goetz, who grew up in Keokuk, is named after Rev. Diamond, the pastor of St. Peter’s (now the Church of All Saints) in Keokuk when Goetz was a child.

“When I was little, I wanted to be just like him,” Goetz said. “I spent a lot of time at the church. I would do pretend Mass on my dining room table.”

Goetz is pastor of SS John and Paul in Burlington, SS Mary and Patrick in West Burlington, and St. Mary in Dodgeville, and led the consolidation between the two parishes six years ago.

He can quote scripture with the best of them and loves talking sports, turning the mechanics of golf and baseball into metaphors better describing God’s message. When Goetz doesn’t have his collar on, it’s impossible to know you’re talking to a priest.

Though Goetz dreamed of becoming a priest as a child, his priorities changed in high school.

“Other things grabbed my attention. Sports, girls, girls, girls, sports, girls,” he said with a laugh. “When people asked me what I wanted to do, I said I want to either be a fireman or a sportswriter.”

Goetz fulfilled the latter ambition by working for The Daily Gate City newspaper for two years, but something was missing from his life.

“There was this little nudge at the back of my mind that said priesthood, priesthood,’” Goetz said.

Goetz followed that nudge, and it changed the course of his life. A St. Ambrose University graduate (he also spent a year at Southeastern Community College in Keokuk), Goetz entered the Mundelein Seminary at St. Mary of the Lake, Ill., which gave him a chance to explore if he was a man who wanted to spread God’s word.

“You don’t go to seminary to be a priest. You go to see if God is calling you to the priesthood,” he said.

Goetz was ordained to the priesthood on May 29, 1992, at the Church of All Saints in Keokuk, and used the Rev. Diamond’s chalice during the ordination mass. Goetz still has that chalice and treasures it to this day.

“I still remember that day as if it were yesterday. It was a beautiful day,” he said.

Goetz became the Parochial Vicar for St. Patrick’s in Iowa City after that, then moved on to Davenport and Clinton before taking a two-year absence from the priesthood from March 1999 to April 2001. It was a hard time for Goetz, but an illuminating one.

Once again, Goetz found himself searching for God.

“I got lost. I did what I thought I did best, and I ran away,” he said. “I couldn’t believe Jesus could love somebody like me.”

Goetz sold running shoes and later insurance for GEICO, and was named salesman of the month in October 2000. But it wasn’t his calling.

“I finally got the courage to write a letter to Bishop (William) Franklin that said, ‘During the past few weeks, I’ve been discovering a call back to the priesthood,’” he said. “I remember being so nervous mailing that letter.”

Goetz heard back from Bishop Franklin the next day. He was welcomed back into the fold with open arms. The incident helped him understand others who left the church and found their way back to God.

“I ran away, but I had a home to come back to,” he said. “I was able to truly realize what was most important, and that was God in my life and family and friends who didn’t give up on me. It makes me a better priest today.”

The now-closed Keokuk Cardinal Stritch High School and Burlington Notre Dame Catholic Schools once were fierce rivals, and Goetz never imagined he one day would work for the “enemy.”&nbsp;

But when he arrived in Burlington 11 years ago after serving at churches in Keota, Sigourney, Keswick, Richmond, Riverside, and Wellman (he also was vocation director at the Diocese of Davenport for five years), he found only friends.

“It’s nice being close to home,” he said. “These last 11 years have been a blessing.”

Goetz discovered he wanted to work with schools during his many assignments, leading him to Notre Dame and Burlington’s Catholic community.&nbsp;

“People ask me if I had it to do all over again, would I? And the answer is yes. I hope and pray that when my time comes they will look at me, look at my priesthood, and say, ‘He was so happy being a priest. He couldn’t understand why everyone would not want to share that same joy,’ ” Goetz said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/6/1687270126420.jpeg" alt="Father Marty Goetz is shown prior to the Notre Dame High School Class of 2023 commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 28. Goetz, who has pastored to local Catholics for more than a decade, will be the new pastor at Sacred Heart Parish in Newton after June 28.&nbsp; Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Father Marty Goetz is shown prior to the Notre Dame High School Class of 2023 commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 28. Goetz, who has pastored to local Catholics for more than a decade, will be the new pastor at Sacred Heart Parish in Newton after June 28.&nbsp; Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By William SmithAt 56 years old, Rev. Marty Goetz — a Catholic fixture in Des Moines County for the past 11 years — is heading out on a new adventure.After June 28, Goetz will be the new pastor at Sacred Heart Parish in Newton. He was reassigned by the Catholic Diocese and is excited to meet his new parishioners.But it will be difficult for Goetz to move his heart out of Burlington and West Burlington. He has been serving the area for the past 11 years, and it has become home.“I’ve spent over a third of my priesthood here in Burlington,” Goetz said. “This is the longest assignment I’ve ever had.”It will be a tough move. Goetz has been fighting breast cancer for two years, and it has metastasized through his body. At this point, the cancer has reached stage 4 and is in his bones. He will continue medical treatment at his new assignment, including cancer medications that cost $30,000 monthly, paid by insurance.“I don’t know if I’m worth $30,000 a month,” the ever-jovial Goetz said with a laugh.Goetz will be the first to tell you that his job is to lift others up, no matter his struggles. But that relationship with his parishioners and fellow priests is reciprocal — they lift Goetz up.&nbsp;“I am not alone. They (the parishioners) do the same for me when I’m hurting. And I’m able to share joy and life with them. It’s pretty special,” he said.For the past four years, Goetz has had to endure a litany of hardships. His father died in 2019. Then COVID-19 turned the world upside down. In 2021, he was diagnosed with cancer. A few months after that, his mother died.“Through all of that, God is good. He’s good because I’ve seen so many people, people I didn’t even know, have reached out to me and lifted me up in prayer. And this year, some days are easier than others. But you know, God is good. And that’s what’s important,” Goetz said.Aside from his jovial, slightly mischievous bent, Goetz has long been known as a practical priest. A man of God unafraid to face reality. That is why he takes comfort in Psalms in the Bible.“I know all about decay in my bones,” he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/6/1687270271295.jpeg" alt="Father Marty Goetz gives the benediction at the Notre Dame High School Class of 2023 graduation ceremony. Photo/John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Father Marty Goetz gives the benediction at the Notre Dame High School Class of 2023 graduation ceremony. Photo/John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>Father Marty Goetz gives the benediction at the Notre Dame High School Class of 2023 graduation ceremonyPriest, fireman,&nbsp;or a sports writerGoetz knew he wanted to be a priest from a young age.But it wasn’t God that attracted him to the priesthood. It was a man of God — the late Rev. Martin Diamond — who inspired Goetz to earn the clerical collar. Goetz, who grew up in Keokuk, is named after Rev. Diamond, the pastor of St. Peter’s (now the Church of All Saints) in Keokuk when Goetz was a child.“When I was little, I wanted to be just like him,” Goetz said. “I spent a lot of time at the church. I would do pretend Mass on my dining room table.”Goetz is pastor of SS John and Paul in Burlington, SS Mary and Patrick in West Burlington, and St. Mary in Dodgeville, and led the consolidation between the two parishes six years ago.He can quote scripture with the best of them and loves talking sports, turning the mechanics of golf and baseball into metaphors better describing God’s message. When Goetz doesn’t have his collar on, it’s impossible to know you’re talking to a priest.Though Goetz dreamed of becoming a priest as a child, his priorities changed in high school.“Other things grabbed my attention. Sports, girls, girls, girls, sports, girls,” he said with a laugh. “When people asked me what I wanted to do, I said I want to either be a fireman or a sportswriter.”Goetz fulfilled the latter ambition by working for The Daily Gate City newspaper for two years, but something was missing from his life.“There was this little nudge at the back of my mind that said priesthood, priesthood,’” Goetz said.Finding God twiceGoetz followed that nudge, and it changed the course of his life. A St. Ambrose University graduate (he also spent a year at Southeastern Community College in Keokuk), Goetz entered the Mundelein Seminary at St. Mary of the Lake, Ill., which gave him a chance to explore if he was a man who wanted to spread God’s word.“You don’t go to seminary to be a priest. You go to see if God is calling you to the priesthood,” he said.Goetz was ordained to the priesthood on May 29, 1992, at the Church of All Saints in Keokuk, and used the Rev. Diamond’s chalice during the ordination mass. Goetz still has that chalice and treasures it to this day.“I still remember that day as if it were yesterday. It was a beautiful day,” he said.Goetz became the Parochial Vicar for St. Patrick’s in Iowa City after that, then moved on to Davenport and Clinton before taking a two-year absence from the priesthood from March 1999 to April 2001. It was a hard time for Goetz, but an illuminating one.Once again, Goetz found himself searching for God.“I got lost. I did what I thought I did best, and I ran away,” he said. “I couldn’t believe Jesus could love somebody like me.”Goetz sold running shoes and later insurance for GEICO, and was named salesman of the month in October 2000. But it wasn’t his calling.“I finally got the courage to write a letter to Bishop (William) Franklin that said, ‘During the past few weeks, I’ve been discovering a call back to the priesthood,’” he said. “I remember being so nervous mailing that letter.”Goetz heard back from Bishop Franklin the next day. He was welcomed back into the fold with open arms. The incident helped him understand others who left the church and found their way back to God.“I ran away, but I had a home to come back to,” he said. “I was able to truly realize what was most important, and that was God in my life and family and friends who didn’t give up on me. It makes me a better priest today.”Coming to BurlingtonThe now-closed Keokuk Cardinal Stritch High School and Burlington Notre Dame Catholic Schools once were fierce rivals, and Goetz never imagined he one day would work for the “enemy.”&nbsp;But when he arrived in Burlington 11 years ago after serving at churches in Keota, Sigourney, Keswick, Richmond, Riverside, and Wellman (he also was vocation director at the Diocese of Davenport for five years), he found only friends.“It’s nice being close to home,” he said. “These last 11 years have been a blessing.”Goetz discovered he wanted to work with schools during his many assignments, leading him to Notre Dame and Burlington’s Catholic community.&nbsp;“People ask me if I had it to do all over again, would I? And the answer is yes. I hope and pray that when my time comes they will look at me, look at my priesthood, and say, ‘He was so happy being a priest. He couldn’t understand why everyone would not want to share that same joy,’ ” Goetz said.

52 Faces: A practical priest — a beloved father

As a 16-year-old junior firefighter for West Burlington, Mark Crooks was fighting fires while most teenagers were getting their drivers licenses.

After a 35-year career in fire protection, including the past 18 years as Burlington fire marshal, Crooks is finally hanging up his gear for good.

“I just think I’m ready,” Crooks said.

Crooks has spent his entire adult life taking calls, missing countless nights of sleep over the past four decades. His final day is June 30. After that, all Crooks will need to worry about is keeping enough gas in the RV while he and his wife travel the country.

“I’m 56 years old now, and there are some things I would like to do,” he said.

Born in Burlington and raised in West Burlington, Crooks and his wife have lived in West Burlington for the past 24 years. They have three boys who went through the West Burlington School District, as did Mark.

His son, Andy, is a paramedic at the Burlington Fire Department. His middle son, Nathan, is an officer for the Burlington Police Department.

Blending his professional family with his blood family has been an unexpected delight for Crooks.

“This whole community has been really good to us,” he said.

Crooks loved watching crime and emergency shows as a tyke.

But his family had a business selling propane, and Crooks helped out. When he turned 18, he volunteered at the West Burlington Fire Department. But he also worked for his parents, delivering propane cylinders.

He joined the Burlington Fire Department full-time in 1988.

“I thought, ‘what the heck, I’m going to take a shot at it.’ So I went through the whole testing process. I was the second one hired out of three and I’ve been here ever since,” Crooks said.

Crooks signed up to fight fires, and the road to investigating them ran the gamut of the department. Crooks became an EMT, then a paramedic. He met his wife in one of the medical classes.

“When we got married, she went back to school and became a registered nurse, and she’s been working at the hospital (Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center) since then,” he said.

Crooks was a firefighter/paramedic for about 12 years. He was promoted to shift captain in January 2000. He kept that role for about five years, then took the job as Burlington Fire Marshal. The previous fire marshal was closing in on retirement, which allowed Crooks to learn the job before taking it.

He learned more about the job by becoming a part-time fire inspector for West Burlington in 2003. His father had passed away by then, and his mom had sold the propane business.

“I sat down, and I worked with the building official out there, and he taught me about fire code and how to do inspections,” he said.

Crooks was allowed to work 14 hours a week for West Burlington, which left him little downtime after fulfilling his full-time duties in Burlington.

“It really provided me a good opportunity to learn the codes and do inspections, and work hand-in-hand with a building official,” Crooks said.&nbsp;

“For about five years, I was doing both communities.”

When Crooks was hired full-time as the Burlington fire marshal, West Burlington combined the inspector job with a newly-created fire chief position.

Due to the nature of his work, Crooks does not have to be at a fire scene until the blaze is extinguished. But he is usually there before then, especially during his shift. He said about 70 percent of the fire calls he has taken over the years are accidental or out of the fire victim’s hands. The rest are deemed suspicious.

If there is enough evidence, that suspicion can lead to an arrest, as it did with the First United Methodist Church fire in 2007. Crooks is proud of the working relationship he has fostered with Burlington police and surrounding law enforcement agencies over the years.

He said that cooperation led to the arrest of a man who set fire to several South Hill homes in 2008. The next year, Crooks investigated a fatal fire that turned out to be a murder.&nbsp;

Dennis Richards was convicted of second-degree murder and second-degree arson for strangling his ex-wife Cyd Richards to death, setting her home in Burlington on fire in January 2009.

There had been a variety of evidence introduced at the trial, such as gas cans and DNA from blood found on Dennis Richards’ clothing.

“I’ve worked with some awesome detectives over the years and very dedicated individuals. It’s been a lot of fun to co-mingle with the two different departments. And because of that, I know many of the police officers down there (Burlington Police Department) on a first-name basis,” Crooks said.

When the Tama building caught fire in 2018, Crooks was hiking with Boy Scouts in Colorado. Two of his sons are Eagle Scouts, and Crooks rediscovered his passion for scouting about a decade ago.&nbsp;

He kept up with the fire despite spotty cell phone reception. He landed right in the middle of the investigation when he returned.

The exact cause of the fire has not been released.

“We can’t release a cause unless we are 100 percent sure,” Crooks said.

Being a fire marshal entails a lot more than fire investigations. Building inspections are a big part of it, and Crooks was on the ground floor of the FunCity complex, ensuring it was up to code.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/6/1686869527383.jpeg" alt="Burlington Fire Department Fire Marshal Mark Crooks on Tuesday, June 6, at the downtown Burlington Fire Station. Crooks will retire from the Burlington Fire Department at the end of June.&nbsp; Photos by John Lovretta" />
 <figcaption>Burlington Fire Department Fire Marshal Mark Crooks on Tuesday, June 6, at the downtown Burlington Fire Station. Crooks will retire from the Burlington Fire Department at the end of June.&nbsp; Photos by John Lovretta</figcaption>
 </figure>By William SmithAs a 16-year-old junior firefighter for West Burlington, Mark Crooks was fighting fires while most teenagers were getting their drivers licenses.After a 35-year career in fire protection, including the past 18 years as Burlington fire marshal, Crooks is finally hanging up his gear for good.“I just think I’m ready,” Crooks said.Crooks has spent his entire adult life taking calls, missing countless nights of sleep over the past four decades. His final day is June 30. After that, all Crooks will need to worry about is keeping enough gas in the RV while he and his wife travel the country.“I’m 56 years old now, and there are some things I would like to do,” he said.Born in Burlington and raised in West Burlington, Crooks and his wife have lived in West Burlington for the past 24 years. They have three boys who went through the West Burlington School District, as did Mark.His son, Andy, is a paramedic at the Burlington Fire Department. His middle son, Nathan, is an officer for the Burlington Police Department.Blending his professional family with his blood family has been an unexpected delight for Crooks.“This whole community has been really good to us,” he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/6/1686869679083.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>A job, then a careerCrooks loved watching crime and emergency shows as a tyke.But his family had a business selling propane, and Crooks helped out. When he turned 18, he volunteered at the West Burlington Fire Department. But he also worked for his parents, delivering propane cylinders.He joined the Burlington Fire Department full-time in 1988.“I thought, ‘what the heck, I’m going to take a shot at it.’ So I went through the whole testing process. I was the second one hired out of three and I’ve been here ever since,” Crooks said.Crooks signed up to fight fires, and the road to investigating them ran the gamut of the department. Crooks became an EMT, then a paramedic. He met his wife in one of the medical classes.“When we got married, she went back to school and became a registered nurse, and she’s been working at the hospital (Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center) since then,” he said.Crooks was a firefighter/paramedic for about 12 years. He was promoted to shift captain in January 2000. He kept that role for about five years, then took the job as Burlington Fire Marshal. The previous fire marshal was closing in on retirement, which allowed Crooks to learn the job before taking it.He learned more about the job by becoming a part-time fire inspector for West Burlington in 2003. His father had passed away by then, and his mom had sold the propane business.“I sat down, and I worked with the building official out there, and he taught me about fire code and how to do inspections,” he said.Crooks was allowed to work 14 hours a week for West Burlington, which left him little downtime after fulfilling his full-time duties in Burlington.“It really provided me a good opportunity to learn the codes and do inspections, and work hand-in-hand with a building official,” Crooks said.&nbsp;“For about five years, I was doing both communities.”When Crooks was hired full-time as the Burlington fire marshal, West Burlington combined the inspector job with a newly-created fire chief position.Life as a fire marshalDue to the nature of his work, Crooks does not have to be at a fire scene until the blaze is extinguished. But he is usually there before then, especially during his shift. He said about 70 percent of the fire calls he has taken over the years are accidental or out of the fire victim’s hands. The rest are deemed suspicious.If there is enough evidence, that suspicion can lead to an arrest, as it did with the First United Methodist Church fire in 2007. Crooks is proud of the working relationship he has fostered with Burlington police and surrounding law enforcement agencies over the years.He said that cooperation led to the arrest of a man who set fire to several South Hill homes in 2008. The next year, Crooks investigated a fatal fire that turned out to be a murder.&nbsp;Dennis Richards was convicted of second-degree murder and second-degree arson for strangling his ex-wife Cyd Richards to death, setting her home in Burlington on fire in January 2009.There had been a variety of evidence introduced at the trial, such as gas cans and DNA from blood found on Dennis Richards’ clothing.“I’ve worked with some awesome detectives over the years and very dedicated individuals. It’s been a lot of fun to co-mingle with the two different departments. And because of that, I know many of the police officers down there (Burlington Police Department) on a first-name basis,” Crooks said.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/6/1686869736588.jpeg" alt="In this file photo, Burlington Fire Marshal Mark Crooks sifts through the rubble of a home during an investigation." />
 <figcaption>In this file photo, Burlington Fire Marshal Mark Crooks sifts through the rubble of a home during an investigation.</figcaption>
 </figure>When the Tama building caught fire in 2018, Crooks was hiking with Boy Scouts in Colorado. Two of his sons are Eagle Scouts, and Crooks rediscovered his passion for scouting about a decade ago.&nbsp;He kept up with the fire despite spotty cell phone reception. He landed right in the middle of the investigation when he returned.The exact cause of the fire has not been released.“We can’t release a cause unless we are 100 percent sure,” Crooks said.Being a fire marshal entails a lot more than fire investigations. Building inspections are a big part of it, and Crooks was on the ground floor of the FunCity complex, ensuring it was up to code.&nbsp;He works with the Burlington School Administration on school inspections and knows most business owners in town.“It’s quite interesting,” he said.A busy futureThere is never an ideal time to leave public service. Something always goes unfinished. And plans for the future must be handed to someone else.The fire department is busier now than it ever has been, Crooks said.“Back in the late 80s and early 90s, we were averaging about three-and-a-half calls per day,” Crooks said. “Now we’re closer to 17 calls a day.”The number of fires has not increased. However, people call the police and fire more than they used to. The nature of fire response has changed as well. Despite the number of calls, the number of fires averages about 30 to 50 structure fires a year.“Back then (in the late 1980s), we staffed one ambulance with two people, and they handled all the calls throughout the city. Now we staff three ambulances, and there are many times where all three ambulances are out at the same time,” Crooks said. “Last month, in April, we had 515 calls department-wide. That’s a combination of fire and EMS.”The demands on the fire department continue to grow. The influx of apartments in Burlington results in more work for the city and fire inspectors, and the department is interested in obtaining a third fire station to cut down call times.“It seems like just the sheer number of transports that we have to the hospital is increasing. I mean, it just seems like it’s off the charts. And it just seems to keep creeping up more and more and more every year,” Crooks said.Life outside the flamesCrooks started driving a West Burlington school bus in 2010, and it has been something he continues to enjoy.&nbsp;“They were hurting for school bus drivers, and my three kids were in school there. So I was driving activity buses to different sporting events or music concerts or whatever,” he said.Crooks has continued to drive a school bus after his sons graduated from West Burlington. It has become a hobby.“I love going to the sporting events anyway. So a lot of the time I’ll sit down and I’ll keep the scorebook. And so there are no better seats in the house than sitting at the scorer’s table,” Crooks said.That gives Crooks extra pocket money to indulge in his other passions — scouting and camping. He has been a Boy Scout for over 40 years and has a new RV waiting for him.He will miss the job and, more so, the people. But there is a younger generation of Crooks brothers looking out for the city now.“All three of my sons worked for the city at one time. Daniel mowed grass in the park one summer when he was on college break. I never dreamed that even one of my kids would ever come to work in emergency services. And here two of them are doing just that,” Crooks said.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/6/1686869796607.jpeg" alt="Fire Marshall Mark Crooks looks on as members of the Burlington fire department respond to a report of smoke coming from an apartment in Burlington.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Fire Marshall Mark Crooks looks on as members of the Burlington fire department respond to a report of smoke coming from an apartment in Burlington.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
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