The last week in February marks Eating Disorders Awareness Week, a national campaign to bring awareness to this common mental health condition that 30 million Americans will struggle with at some point in their life. That statistic boils down to nearly 10% of the population. While some people still hold the assumption that you can tell who has an eating disorder by their size, the truth is only 2% of those struggling are at a low body weight.

Recovery from eating disorders is near and dear to my heart, both as a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and as a person who has experienced an eating disorder and recovered. Fifteen years ago, during Eating Disorders Awareness Week, I entered treatment. It took years of specialized treatment and unwavering support from family and friends, but I made it through. I show up for my clients every day hoping they will experience full recovery too.

Eating disorders take many forms. They can present as either one primary symptom or a mixture of the following: food restriction, binge eating, purging behaviors of several types, rigidity around the quantity, quality, or other aspects of food, preoccupation with food, compulsive eating, avoidance of foods due to sensory qualities such as texture, or avoidance for fear of adverse consequences such as choking.

Many eating disorders come with body dissatisfaction, and compulsive exercise or exercise avoidance. Eating disorders are like chameleons, shifting in presentation to hide and protect their very existence.

People who struggle with eating disorders miraculously keep behaviors hidden from their closest family and friends for months, years, or even decades. Our bodies have evolved with the ability to adapt to starvation in the form of famine, so many sufferers are incredibly ill but may have a neutral or larger body size and normal blood work and vital signs. However, eating disorders are still the second most deadly mental illness.

The assumption that people will become underweight if there is a legitimate problem fuels the suffering. This means parents, friends, even doctors and healthcare providers miss identifying this condition. Again, it’s like a chameleon: hard to see unless you’re specifically looking for it.

One interesting phenomenon about eating disorders is often the person experiencing the problem doesn’t want to change, or may not even see their very clear symptoms as a problem at all. There is actually a clinical term for this, “anosognosia,” which is the inability to recognize that one is ill.

In some ways, not seeing clear eating disorder symptoms as a problem is unsurprising, considering the rules eating disorder sufferers follow closely mimic popular diets. For people in larger bodies, healthcare guidance sometimes prescribes the very symptoms we diagnose as eating disorders in thin people!

Just this year, the American Academy of Pediatrics endorsed drastic weight loss measures for growing children, including pharmaceutical and surgical methods. The eating disorder community is in disbelief, not only because of the lack of research supporting such extreme measures, but because advising children (or anyone) to lose weight is directly correlated with contributing to the development of eating disorders.

Iowans are particularly unlucky when it comes to seeking eating disorder treatment. The University of Iowa had the one specialized inpatient unit for eating disorder patients in the state and closed last year to expand services to more general mental health beds. There are ZERO facilities in the state of Iowa for those with eating disorders.

The statistic of 30 million Americans suffering boils down to 100,000 Iowans who have limited access to care, which flows over to the outpatient setting as well. Most folks will never need intensive medical monitoring, but they do need therapy and nutritional therapy support, usually weekly, for at least several months, sometimes years.

Unfortunately, as caring and compassionate as your standard medical provider, therapist, and nutrition professionals are, they are ill-equipped in supporting eating disorder sufferers without specialized training. They have overflowing caseloads and limited time. Treating eating disorders requires extensive time and specialized education.

Do you want to join me in doing something to support those struggling with eating disorders? If so, learn more by browsing the Eating Disorder Coalition of Iowa (EDCI) website at edciowa.org, where resources for families, professionals, and the public are available.

Visit the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA) website at nationaleatingdisorders.org for even more resources and a confidential screening to see if you may benefit from support.

If you’re a professional who wants to make a difference, attend a conference or join a free online webinar to expand your knowledge to support the eating disorder sufferers you see in your practice. Please contact me directly to collaborate on providing care for our local clients!

Despite the mountain of work for both professionals and those suffering, recovery is possible. People can and do recover from eating disorders every day. The sooner they have access to specialized treatment and comprehensive support, the better their outcomes are. We must act NOW if we hope to reduce the incidence of eating disorders in the years and decades to come.

Michelle Russell, RD, LD, CEDS, is a dietitian and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist practicing in downtown Burlington. She provides nutrition therapy for individuals and families struggling with eating disorders and is one of less than ten certified specialists in the state of Iowa. Michelle’s definition of healthy eating includes eating for enjoyment and acknowledges that there are many ways our bodies are nourished. She may be reached via phone at 319-208-9038 and email michelle@michellerussellrd.com.

by Michelle Russell for The BeaconThe last week in February marks Eating Disorders Awareness Week, a national campaign to bring awareness to this common mental health condition that 30 million Americans will struggle with at some point in their life. That statistic boils down to nearly 10% of the population. While some people still hold the assumption that you can tell who has an eating disorder by their size, the truth is only 2% of those struggling are at a low body weight.Recovery from eating disorders is near and dear to my heart, both as a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and as a person who has experienced an eating disorder and recovered. Fifteen years ago, during Eating Disorders Awareness Week, I entered treatment. It took years of specialized treatment and unwavering support from family and friends, but I made it through. I show up for my clients every day hoping they will experience full recovery too.Eating disorders take many forms. They can present as either one primary symptom or a mixture of the following: food restriction, binge eating, purging behaviors of several types, rigidity around the quantity, quality, or other aspects of food, preoccupation with food, compulsive eating, avoidance of foods due to sensory qualities such as texture, or avoidance for fear of adverse consequences such as choking.Many eating disorders come with body dissatisfaction, and compulsive exercise or exercise avoidance. Eating disorders are like chameleons, shifting in presentation to hide and protect their very existence.People who struggle with eating disorders miraculously keep behaviors hidden from their closest family and friends for months, years, or even decades. Our bodies have evolved with the ability to adapt to starvation in the form of famine, so many sufferers are incredibly ill but may have a neutral or larger body size and normal blood work and vital signs. However, eating disorders are still the second most deadly mental illness.The assumption that people will become underweight if there is a legitimate problem fuels the suffering. This means parents, friends, even doctors and healthcare providers miss identifying this condition. Again, it’s like a chameleon: hard to see unless you’re specifically looking for it.One interesting phenomenon about eating disorders is often the person experiencing the problem doesn’t want to change, or may not even see their very clear symptoms as a problem at all. There is actually a clinical term for this, “anosognosia,” which is the inability to recognize that one is ill.In some ways, not seeing clear eating disorder symptoms as a problem is unsurprising, considering the rules eating disorder sufferers follow closely mimic popular diets. For people in larger bodies, healthcare guidance sometimes prescribes the very symptoms we diagnose as eating disorders in thin people!Just this year, the American Academy of Pediatrics endorsed drastic weight loss measures for growing children, including pharmaceutical and surgical methods. The eating disorder community is in disbelief, not only because of the lack of research supporting such extreme measures, but because advising children (or anyone) to lose weight is directly correlated with contributing to the development of eating disorders.Iowans are particularly unlucky when it comes to seeking eating disorder treatment. The University of Iowa had the one specialized inpatient unit for eating disorder patients in the state and closed last year to expand services to more general mental health beds. There are ZERO facilities in the state of Iowa for those with eating disorders.The statistic of 30 million Americans suffering boils down to 100,000 Iowans who have limited access to care, which flows over to the outpatient setting as well. Most folks will never need intensive medical monitoring, but they do need therapy and nutritional therapy support, usually weekly, for at least several months, sometimes years.Unfortunately, as caring and compassionate as your standard medical provider, therapist, and nutrition professionals are, they are ill-equipped in supporting eating disorder sufferers without specialized training. They have overflowing caseloads and limited time. Treating eating disorders requires extensive time and specialized education.Do you want to join me in doing something to support those struggling with eating disorders? If so, learn more by browsing the Eating Disorder Coalition of Iowa (EDCI) website at edciowa.org, where resources for families, professionals, and the public are available.Visit the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA) website at nationaleatingdisorders.org for even more resources and a confidential screening to see if you may benefit from support.If you’re a professional who wants to make a difference, attend a conference or join a free online webinar to expand your knowledge to support the eating disorder sufferers you see in your practice. Please contact me directly to collaborate on providing care for our local clients!Despite the mountain of work for both professionals and those suffering, recovery is possible. People can and do recover from eating disorders every day. The sooner they have access to specialized treatment and comprehensive support, the better their outcomes are. We must act NOW if we hope to reduce the incidence of eating disorders in the years and decades to come.Michelle Russell, RD, LD, CEDS, is a dietitian and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist practicing in downtown Burlington. She provides nutrition therapy for individuals and families struggling with eating disorders and is one of less than ten certified specialists in the state of Iowa. Michelle’s definition of healthy eating includes eating for enjoyment and acknowledges that there are many ways our bodies are nourished. She may be reached via phone at 319-208-9038 and email michelle@michellerussellrd.com.

Eating Disorders are a Public Health Crisis

Downtown Partners on Tuesday evening unveiled the new brand for the downtown Burlington businesses.

The new brand is to give downtown Burlington a way to brand itself to those outside the community and to make it a destination for tourists.

The branding was made possible by a $15,000 grant applied for by Downtown Partners to Main Street Iowa. This allowed the group to hire Ben Muldrow of Arnett Muldrow &amp; Associates to create a new brand. After months of work, the new brand was finally unveiled downtown Tuesday night at the Capitol Performing Arts Center.

Amy Moyner, the executive director of Downtown Partners hosted, and opened the event by stating the reason for the branding.

“The vision of downtown Burlington is to be a unique and vital downtown that celebrates the history, encourages entrepreneurial spirit, artistic expression, entertainment activity, hospitality to visitors, and instills a sense of place in our community,” Moyner said.

Sue Ann Wells, the Bean Counter owner, and a Downtown Partners member spoke first at the presentation. Wells stated that as a small business owner, it is hard to be recognized.

“Since the Bean Counter opened and long before, downtown Burlington had been in search of a way to create a brand which would bring us all together,” Wells said.

Wells went on to explain that though she had been in business for a number of years and was present on social media, still getting her business recognized was difficult.

“There are still many people in our local community who have never heard of the Bean (Counter). It is difficult for a single business to be well known in a community, and even more difficult to get your name out there, outside of the community. This is where our downtown brand is going to be a game changer,” Wells said.

Brandon and Kathy Bentz, owners of the Scotten Building on the 700 block of Jefferson Street, were next to speak. The couple moved to West Burlington two years ago and noticed that Burlington was different from the rural communities they had previously lived in.

“The community, people, and the vibe were different from most places we had lived,” Brandon Bentz said.

Bentz plans his new building, “to open in late June, early July a full-service restaurant, brewery, corner market butcher shop, commercial spaces for five new upstart businesses, and some additional loft-style housing.”

Later in the year, they plan to add additional parking, sandlot volleyball, and the potential for an amphitheater for concerts and other outside events.

“We plan on having a large marketing campaign to go along with what we are developing, but we can’t do it alone,” Bentz said.

Bentz talked about the community coming together under the new brand to help bring people into the community, and establish a sense of common purpose and togetherness. Bentz said that the new branding would help with that purpose.

K.C. Fleming, who is a medical staff recruiter for Great River Medical Center, was the next to speak.

He spoke about how other cities such as Chicago and New York had brands that were instantly recognizable. That branding for companies such as Nike or Apple explains what their brand is about, and this new downtown branding would do the same for Burlington.

“What we see tonight is going to help pull everything together, to what downtown Burlington means to us,” Fleming said.

Moyner then revealed the brand to the audience, Burlington Downtown It’s Happening! The logo is a rainbow of colors that spell out the word Burlington with the Downtown placed inside the letter U.

Moyner also stated that there would be a rebranding of the Trick or Treat Downtown, The Witches Walk, and the Sip and Stroll.

The Downtown Partners will also offer classes that teach how to use the new brand in association with your business or products.

People have wanted a united downtown presence for a while, and it appears it’s happening downtown.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/2/1677456442053.jpeg" alt="The logo for downtown Burlington." />
 <figcaption>The logo for downtown Burlington.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Andy SchneiderDowntown Partners on Tuesday evening unveiled the new brand for the downtown Burlington businesses.The new brand is to give downtown Burlington a way to brand itself to those outside the community and to make it a destination for tourists.The branding was made possible by a $15,000 grant applied for by Downtown Partners to Main Street Iowa. This allowed the group to hire Ben Muldrow of Arnett Muldrow &amp; Associates to create a new brand. After months of work, the new brand was finally unveiled downtown Tuesday night at the Capitol Performing Arts Center.Amy Moyner, the executive director of Downtown Partners hosted, and opened the event by stating the reason for the branding.“The vision of downtown Burlington is to be a unique and vital downtown that celebrates the history, encourages entrepreneurial spirit, artistic expression, entertainment activity, hospitality to visitors, and instills a sense of place in our community,” Moyner said.Sue Ann Wells, the Bean Counter owner, and a Downtown Partners member spoke first at the presentation. Wells stated that as a small business owner, it is hard to be recognized.“Since the Bean Counter opened and long before, downtown Burlington had been in search of a way to create a brand which would bring us all together,” Wells said.Wells went on to explain that though she had been in business for a number of years and was present on social media, still getting her business recognized was difficult.“There are still many people in our local community who have never heard of the Bean (Counter). It is difficult for a single business to be well known in a community, and even more difficult to get your name out there, outside of the community. This is where our downtown brand is going to be a game changer,” Wells said.Brandon and Kathy Bentz, owners of the Scotten Building on the 700 block of Jefferson Street, were next to speak. The couple moved to West Burlington two years ago and noticed that Burlington was different from the rural communities they had previously lived in.“The community, people, and the vibe were different from most places we had lived,” Brandon Bentz said.Bentz plans his new building, “to open in late June, early July a full-service restaurant, brewery, corner market butcher shop, commercial spaces for five new upstart businesses, and some additional loft-style housing.”Later in the year, they plan to add additional parking, sandlot volleyball, and the potential for an amphitheater for concerts and other outside events.“We plan on having a large marketing campaign to go along with what we are developing, but we can’t do it alone,” Bentz said.Bentz talked about the community coming together under the new brand to help bring people into the community, and establish a sense of common purpose and togetherness. Bentz said that the new branding would help with that purpose.K.C. Fleming, who is a medical staff recruiter for Great River Medical Center, was the next to speak.He spoke about how other cities such as Chicago and New York had brands that were instantly recognizable. That branding for companies such as Nike or Apple explains what their brand is about, and this new downtown branding would do the same for Burlington.“What we see tonight is going to help pull everything together, to what downtown Burlington means to us,” Fleming said.Moyner then revealed the brand to the audience, Burlington Downtown It’s Happening! The logo is a rainbow of colors that spell out the word Burlington with the Downtown placed inside the letter U.Moyner also stated that there would be a rebranding of the Trick or Treat Downtown, The Witches Walk, and the Sip and Stroll.The Downtown Partners will also offer classes that teach how to use the new brand in association with your business or products.People have wanted a united downtown presence for a while, and it appears it’s happening downtown.

It’s happening: Downtown Burlington Gets a Logo, Branding

&nbsp;Horne receives The Burlington Beacon’s Teacher/Staff of the Month award for February.

Tuty Horne discovered a passion for education at a young age.

Horne, the winner of The Burlington Beacon’s first Teacher/Staff of the Month award, was already tutoring in her home country of Indonesia when she was 17 years old.

“The way I learned, my education was kind of different. That’s why I combine what I’ve learned from my background,” she said.

Horne moved to America in 1997 and started out as a volunteer in education. She lost her husband to cancer in 2004 and transitioned from volunteer to full-time teacher.

She has been teaching ever since, raising a daughter while working in both Fort Madison and Burlington schools.

Four years ago, Horne became a lead teacher for early head start at the Corse Early Childhood Education Center. That means she helps children 3 and under develop social skills and learn about the world around them — mostly through play.

Horne is more than a caretaker. She watches the children as they play, investing in each of their individual learning styles.

“Nurturing is important, and building relationships,” Horne said. “At the same time, we are teaching them self-control. We are helping them become self-sufficient.”

Horne was nominated for the award by Cindy McCannon, who works as a cook at the school. Horne had no idea she had been nominated and thought the award was a mistake at first.

McCannon wasn’t going to spoil the surprise.

“I didn’t say anything to anybody,” she said.

Horne, who has never sought nor imagined a turn in the spotlight, was delighted by the sentiment behind the award. She and McCannon shared a hug after an interview with The Burlington Beacon.

“Tuty has a heart for what she does, and it shows,” McCannon said. “She always goes above and beyond, and she has got to be one of the kindest people I’ve ever met in my life. Everybody loves working with her.”

Horne received a prize package provided by The Burlington Beacon, Burlington by The Book, and Dunn Brothers Coffee.

&nbsp;Horne receives The Burlington Beacon’s Teacher/Staff of the Month award for February.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/2/1677269023190.jpeg" alt="Tuty Horne" />
 <figcaption>Tuty Horne</figcaption>
 </figure>By William SmithTuty Horne discovered a passion for education at a young age.Horne, the winner of The Burlington Beacon’s first Teacher/Staff of the Month award, was already tutoring in her home country of Indonesia when she was 17 years old.“The way I learned, my education was kind of different. That’s why I combine what I’ve learned from my background,” she said.Horne moved to America in 1997 and started out as a volunteer in education. She lost her husband to cancer in 2004 and transitioned from volunteer to full-time teacher.She has been teaching ever since, raising a daughter while working in both Fort Madison and Burlington schools.Four years ago, Horne became a lead teacher for early head start at the Corse Early Childhood Education Center. That means she helps children 3 and under develop social skills and learn about the world around them — mostly through play.Horne is more than a caretaker. She watches the children as they play, investing in each of their individual learning styles.“Nurturing is important, and building relationships,” Horne said. “At the same time, we are teaching them self-control. We are helping them become self-sufficient.”Horne was nominated for the award by Cindy McCannon, who works as a cook at the school. Horne had no idea she had been nominated and thought the award was a mistake at first.McCannon wasn’t going to spoil the surprise.“I didn’t say anything to anybody,” she said.Horne, who has never sought nor imagined a turn in the spotlight, was delighted by the sentiment behind the award. She and McCannon shared a hug after an interview with The Burlington Beacon.“Tuty has a heart for what she does, and it shows,” McCannon said. “She always goes above and beyond, and she has got to be one of the kindest people I’ve ever met in my life. Everybody loves working with her.”Horne received a prize package provided by The Burlington Beacon, Burlington by The Book, and Dunn Brothers Coffee.

'She Always Goes Above and Beyond'

Oquawka, Ill., misses Kent Hamilton.&nbsp;

The well-known Oquawka, Ill., grocer and father of famed golfer Todd Hamilton, died in November 2022.

“He was such a good person,” said Tianna Lane, owner of the Muddy Cup Coffee Co.

Locally owned grocery stores are a dying breed in the world.&nbsp;

The days of strolling down to the small corner store for a gallon of milk and bread are almost gone.

Hamilton’s Super Market in Oquawka, Ill., was one of those local small-town grocery stores.&nbsp;

Kent Hamilton owned and operated the grocery store and was a fixture in Oquawka.&nbsp;

It was a popular destination for Oquawka residents looking to pop in and pick up a few things like fresh-cut steaks. Customers were family to Kent.

“He would deliver groceries, and he asked my grandma, ‘How are you doing Millie? How is your arthritis?’ He wouldn’t just drop off groceries and leave,” Oquawka resident Sue Bigger said.

Everyone in town knew Kent. He was a stranger to no one.&nbsp;

“If you were new in town he would find out who you were,” Bigger said.

Kent’s generosity was legendary. He would let locals run a tab, and never worried much about getting paid back.&nbsp;

A trip to the grocery store meant a long talk and catching up with Kent while he cut meat. People have described visits as a “therapy session.”

“There is not a single time that I can remember that I didn’t walk behind that meat counter to get a Kent hug,” said Tianna Lane.&nbsp;

That sentiment was echoed by every person who knew Kent.&nbsp;

Residents were sad to see the grocery store shut its doors in 1998. Fisher’s Food Center now fills the void left by its closure.&nbsp;

Kent Hamilton was a lifelong resident of Oquawka, attending Union High School in Biggsville.&nbsp;

Later, he attended Southeastern Community College in West Burlington and played on the basketball team.

His son Todd Hamilton won the PGA Tour British Open in 2014, becoming a local celebrity. A sign at the edge of town reads: “Home of 2004 British Open winner Todd Hamilton.”&nbsp; Kent Hamilton was also an avid golfer and spent much of his free time on the course.

“He was known at every golf course in the area,” Tianna Lane said. Kent couldn’t have been more proud of his son. As he watched his son win his first major golf tournament, all he could say was, ‘Wow! Wow! Wow!’ “

Jon Beckinger, an avid golfer from Biggsville, Ill., remembered Kent fondly. He said, “Kent was a good guy. I remember him telling me if there was anything I wanted signed by his son, to just let him know.”

After his store closed its doors, Kent took a job at Hy-Vee in Burlington and continued cutting meat. However, Oquawka and the Mississippi River were in his blood. When not on the golf course, he was on the river.

Time marches on and leaves emptiness and change in its wake. Like the wake left by the waves on the mighty Mississippi, if you ride out tough times, calmer waters are ahead.

Kent may be gone, but he left a lasting legacy of kindness that will live on in the hearts of those who loved them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/2/1677178834800.jpeg" alt="Kent-Hamilton" />
 <figcaption>Kent-Hamilton</figcaption>
 </figure>By Andy SchneiderOquawka, Ill., misses Kent Hamilton.&nbsp;The well-known Oquawka, Ill., grocer and father of famed golfer Todd Hamilton, died in November 2022.“He was such a good person,” said Tianna Lane, owner of the Muddy Cup Coffee Co.Locally owned grocery stores are a dying breed in the world.&nbsp;The days of strolling down to the small corner store for a gallon of milk and bread are almost gone.Hamilton’s Super Market in Oquawka, Ill., was one of those local small-town grocery stores.&nbsp;Kent Hamilton owned and operated the grocery store and was a fixture in Oquawka.&nbsp;It was a popular destination for Oquawka residents looking to pop in and pick up a few things like fresh-cut steaks. Customers were family to Kent.“He would deliver groceries, and he asked my grandma, ‘How are you doing Millie? How is your arthritis?’ He wouldn’t just drop off groceries and leave,” Oquawka resident Sue Bigger said.Everyone in town knew Kent. He was a stranger to no one.&nbsp;“If you were new in town he would find out who you were,” Bigger said.Kent’s generosity was legendary. He would let locals run a tab, and never worried much about getting paid back.&nbsp;A trip to the grocery store meant a long talk and catching up with Kent while he cut meat. People have described visits as a “therapy session.”“There is not a single time that I can remember that I didn’t walk behind that meat counter to get a Kent hug,” said Tianna Lane.&nbsp;That sentiment was echoed by every person who knew Kent.&nbsp;Residents were sad to see the grocery store shut its doors in 1998. Fisher’s Food Center now fills the void left by its closure.&nbsp;Kent Hamilton was a lifelong resident of Oquawka, attending Union High School in Biggsville.&nbsp;Later, he attended Southeastern Community College in West Burlington and played on the basketball team.His son Todd Hamilton won the PGA Tour British Open in 2014, becoming a local celebrity. A sign at the edge of town reads: “Home of 2004 British Open winner Todd Hamilton.”&nbsp; Kent Hamilton was also an avid golfer and spent much of his free time on the course.“He was known at every golf course in the area,” Tianna Lane said. Kent couldn’t have been more proud of his son. As he watched his son win his first major golf tournament, all he could say was, ‘Wow! Wow! Wow!’ “Jon Beckinger, an avid golfer from Biggsville, Ill., remembered Kent fondly. He said, “Kent was a good guy. I remember him telling me if there was anything I wanted signed by his son, to just let him know.”After his store closed its doors, Kent took a job at Hy-Vee in Burlington and continued cutting meat. However, Oquawka and the Mississippi River were in his blood. When not on the golf course, he was on the river.Time marches on and leaves emptiness and change in its wake. Like the wake left by the waves on the mighty Mississippi, if you ride out tough times, calmer waters are ahead.Kent may be gone, but he left a lasting legacy of kindness that will live on in the hearts of those who loved them.

Honoring an Oquawka icon

Special Needs Foundation Executive Director Ricci Neilson and case services coordinator Megan McIntire pose in front of medical equipment.&nbsp; The organization has been helping Burlington residents since 1951. Photo/Andy Schneider

&nbsp;For those in need, finding necessary medical resources can be difficult. That is where Burlington’s Special Needs Foundation comes in.&nbsp;

The organization has been&nbsp; helping Burlington residents since 1951, providing free rentals of vital medical equipment such as walkers and heart rate monitors.&nbsp;

It currently helps between 30,000 to 50,000 residents per year. Its mission is to improve health, welfare rehabilitation, employment, education, recreation facilities, and opportunities for children and adults with disabilities in Des Moines County.&nbsp;

“The need in Des Moines County is always rising,” said executive director Ricci Neilson, who began working at the Special Needs Foundation in 2020.&nbsp;

The foundation exists through the interest accrued from an endowment fund and with monetary, equipment, and supply donations.&nbsp;

“We have everything from Depends, to diabetic supplies, feeding tubes, heart rate monitors — we have a little bit of everything,” Neilson said.&nbsp;

The Special Needs Foundation also supplies medical equipment such as walkers, wheelchairs, benches, canes, crutches, toilet seat risers, lift chairs, hospital beds, and more for those in need.&nbsp;

This type of equipment is crucial to residents unable to pay for this equipment.&nbsp;

“We are an amazing place. We do a little bit of everything. If we don’t have it, we can get it for you,” Neilson said.&nbsp;

The foundation offers help with questions about Medicare, Medicaid, and even SNAP Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.&nbsp;

Neilson said it is all accomplished with a limited staff consisting of one full-time employee, one part-time employee, and a few volunteers.&nbsp;

“We can’t always say yes, but I hate to say no. I will try to help you find what you need where you are,” Neilson said.&nbsp;

The Special Needs Foundation offers more than equipment and supplies. The organization supports multiple programs, offering scholarships for people with disabilities.&nbsp;

The foundation also sponsors the Special Needs Boy Scouts, the Special Olympics, Hope Haven, Day of the Child, a water exercise, and a camping program.&nbsp;

Neilson stressed the foundation isn’t just for the elderly or people with special needs.&nbsp;

“It’s for anybody in the community,” she said.&nbsp;

The foundation has been providing direct service to children and adults with disabilities and chronic health conditions since its inception.&nbsp;

The foundation was incorporated in 1951 by concerned citizens. Founder Edward B. Gnahn was dedicated to helping those who faced challenges.&nbsp;

In 1958 Gnahn left his estate in trust for the Special Needs Foundation, enabling assistance to continue for future generations.

The Special Needs Foundation is located at 829 Harrison Ave. and can be reached at (319) 752-8222.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/2/1677178241661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Special Needs Foundation Executive Director Ricci Neilson and case services coordinator Megan McIntire pose in front of medical equipment.&nbsp; The organization has been helping Burlington residents since 1951. Photo/Andy SchneiderBy Andy Schneider&nbsp;For those in need, finding necessary medical resources can be difficult. That is where Burlington’s Special Needs Foundation comes in.&nbsp;The organization has been&nbsp; helping Burlington residents since 1951, providing free rentals of vital medical equipment such as walkers and heart rate monitors.&nbsp;It currently helps between 30,000 to 50,000 residents per year. Its mission is to improve health, welfare rehabilitation, employment, education, recreation facilities, and opportunities for children and adults with disabilities in Des Moines County.&nbsp;“The need in Des Moines County is always rising,” said executive director Ricci Neilson, who began working at the Special Needs Foundation in 2020.&nbsp;The foundation exists through the interest accrued from an endowment fund and with monetary, equipment, and supply donations.&nbsp;“We have everything from Depends, to diabetic supplies, feeding tubes, heart rate monitors — we have a little bit of everything,” Neilson said.&nbsp;The Special Needs Foundation also supplies medical equipment such as walkers, wheelchairs, benches, canes, crutches, toilet seat risers, lift chairs, hospital beds, and more for those in need.&nbsp;This type of equipment is crucial to residents unable to pay for this equipment.&nbsp;“We are an amazing place. We do a little bit of everything. If we don’t have it, we can get it for you,” Neilson said.&nbsp;The foundation offers help with questions about Medicare, Medicaid, and even SNAP Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.&nbsp;Neilson said it is all accomplished with a limited staff consisting of one full-time employee, one part-time employee, and a few volunteers.&nbsp;“We can’t always say yes, but I hate to say no. I will try to help you find what you need where you are,” Neilson said.&nbsp;The Special Needs Foundation offers more than equipment and supplies. The organization supports multiple programs, offering scholarships for people with disabilities.&nbsp;The foundation also sponsors the Special Needs Boy Scouts, the Special Olympics, Hope Haven, Day of the Child, a water exercise, and a camping program.&nbsp;Neilson stressed the foundation isn’t just for the elderly or people with special needs.&nbsp;“It’s for anybody in the community,” she said.&nbsp;The foundation has been providing direct service to children and adults with disabilities and chronic health conditions since its inception.&nbsp;The foundation was incorporated in 1951 by concerned citizens. Founder Edward B. Gnahn was dedicated to helping those who faced challenges.&nbsp;In 1958 Gnahn left his estate in trust for the Special Needs Foundation, enabling assistance to continue for future generations.The Special Needs Foundation is located at 829 Harrison Ave. and can be reached at (319) 752-8222.

A Special Place in the Community

By William Smith Community Editor

Most people need to hear a friendly voice in the morning.

For the past 15 years,&nbsp;&nbsp;Savanna Evans has loved her job — working on radio. She has been the friendly voice on several local radio stations, including KGRS and 101.7 The Bull. But at the end of the month, Evans will say goodbye, and she will miss her time behind the microphone.

“I think what I’m gonna miss the most is, this is gonna sound so cheesy, is being that happy voice for someone in the morning, who might be struggling and can’t see the positivity,” Evans said.&nbsp;

“Everyone is going through something in their lives, and if I can just be a bright spot to get someone’s morning started, it makes me feel good.”

That positivity is not faked. Listeners can hear it in her voice. Her genuine enthusiasm is tempered by years of voice training, resulting in liquid-smooth delivery that never sounds manufactured.

“I always smile when I do my show,” she said. “Even if I’m sick or going through something or I don’t feel good. I put on a smile because I want to make somebody else feel happy in the morning.”

Evans started working as an on-air-personality at Pritchard Broadcasting at 17 before graduating from West Burlington High School. She wasn’t even sure about the job until she walked into the studio and watched someone else do it.

“It just felt like something clicked,” she said. “I can’t describe it any other way. And it felt like I finally figured it out. Maybe this is it.”

Evans, who began broadcasting under her maiden name Savanna Quam, juggled school, a part-time job at Subway, and a part-time job at Pritchard Broadcasting. She ended up working 10 years for Pritchard and is closing out five years with Titan.

She quickly transitioned into full-time employment at the radio station and moved into her new career without hesitation. It was like going to school and getting paid for it.

“I just wanted to learn everything,” she said. “I wanted to learn how to board op (operating the sound system). And then I wanted to dabble into the news department and see what that was all about. And learn how to do a voice track, learn how to do an on-air shift, and how to be a personality.”

Evans never stopped working. She inherited that work ethic from her mother, who raised Savanna and her sister on a single-family income. Savanna’s mother worked at the record store in Westland Mall before it became FYE, resulting in long nights.

Now that Evans has two daughters, she does not want to let her work life overshadow her family. She arrives at work around 4 a.m. every weekday and never gets to take her daughters to school or stay with them when they are sick.

“I text them every morning, asking how everybody is doing. I don’t want to have to ask him (her husband) every morning. I want to be there with them,” she said.

Her husband, Derek Evans, recently purchased Heartland Packaging in West Burlington from his parents. He spends his mornings getting their daughters to school while Savanna is at work.

“They (Savanna’s daughters) are such a fun age right now. They just love life right now. And they’re happy. They like learning, and they like going to school. They still love mom. And I want to just soak it all in as much as I can. Because you only get one shot,” Evans said.

Evans’ recognizable voice is not going to go to waste. For the last three years, she has been freelancing voice work for every kind of media imaginable — audiobooks, video games, and YouTube videos.

It is part of the job she never wants to let go of. When she is on air, her entire presence transforms. Her hands wave excitedly in the air. Her natural exuberance elevates to the same intensity as a stage performance.

And now she has time for the more important things in life, such as taking her daughter to her first Backstreet Boys concert.&nbsp;

“I mean, I’ve seen them (Backstreet Boys) three times, and my 7-year-old now wants to see them. So now I can take her because now she is a Backstreet Boys fan,” Evans said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/2/1676940416752.jpeg" alt="Savanna Evans, the New Mix 107.3 KGRS Mix Mornings Operations Manager at work in the studio, Monday, Feb.13, at the Titan Broadcasting and Digital Group offices in Burlington. Evans who has been with Titan Broadcasting for the last five years and before that with Pritchard Broadcasting for 10 years is leaving at the end of the month. (John Lovretta/The Burlington Beacon)." />
 <figcaption>Savanna Evans, the New Mix 107.3 KGRS Mix Mornings Operations Manager at work in the studio, Monday, Feb.13, at the Titan Broadcasting and Digital Group offices in Burlington. Evans who has been with Titan Broadcasting for the last five years and before that with Pritchard Broadcasting for 10 years is leaving at the end of the month. (John Lovretta/The Burlington Beacon).</figcaption>
 </figure>By William Smith Community EditorMost people need to hear a friendly voice in the morning.For the past 15 years,&nbsp;&nbsp;Savanna Evans has loved her job — working on radio. She has been the friendly voice on several local radio stations, including KGRS and 101.7 The Bull. But at the end of the month, Evans will say goodbye, and she will miss her time behind the microphone.“I think what I’m gonna miss the most is, this is gonna sound so cheesy, is being that happy voice for someone in the morning, who might be struggling and can’t see the positivity,” Evans said.&nbsp;“Everyone is going through something in their lives, and if I can just be a bright spot to get someone’s morning started, it makes me feel good.”That positivity is not faked. Listeners can hear it in her voice. Her genuine enthusiasm is tempered by years of voice training, resulting in liquid-smooth delivery that never sounds manufactured.“I always smile when I do my show,” she said. “Even if I’m sick or going through something or I don’t feel good. I put on a smile because I want to make somebody else feel happy in the morning.”Evans started working as an on-air-personality at Pritchard Broadcasting at 17 before graduating from West Burlington High School. She wasn’t even sure about the job until she walked into the studio and watched someone else do it.“It just felt like something clicked,” she said. “I can’t describe it any other way. And it felt like I finally figured it out. Maybe this is it.”Evans, who began broadcasting under her maiden name Savanna Quam, juggled school, a part-time job at Subway, and a part-time job at Pritchard Broadcasting. She ended up working 10 years for Pritchard and is closing out five years with Titan.She quickly transitioned into full-time employment at the radio station and moved into her new career without hesitation. It was like going to school and getting paid for it.“I just wanted to learn everything,” she said. “I wanted to learn how to board op (operating the sound system). And then I wanted to dabble into the news department and see what that was all about. And learn how to do a voice track, learn how to do an on-air shift, and how to be a personality.”Evans never stopped working. She inherited that work ethic from her mother, who raised Savanna and her sister on a single-family income. Savanna’s mother worked at the record store in Westland Mall before it became FYE, resulting in long nights.Now that Evans has two daughters, she does not want to let her work life overshadow her family. She arrives at work around 4 a.m. every weekday and never gets to take her daughters to school or stay with them when they are sick.“I text them every morning, asking how everybody is doing. I don’t want to have to ask him (her husband) every morning. I want to be there with them,” she said.Her husband, Derek Evans, recently purchased Heartland Packaging in West Burlington from his parents. He spends his mornings getting their daughters to school while Savanna is at work.Now that dynamic will switch.“They (Savanna’s daughters) are such a fun age right now. They just love life right now. And they’re happy. They like learning, and they like going to school. They still love mom. And I want to just soak it all in as much as I can. Because you only get one shot,” Evans said.Evans’ recognizable voice is not going to go to waste. For the last three years, she has been freelancing voice work for every kind of media imaginable — audiobooks, video games, and YouTube videos.It is part of the job she never wants to let go of. When she is on air, her entire presence transforms. Her hands wave excitedly in the air. Her natural exuberance elevates to the same intensity as a stage performance.And now she has time for the more important things in life, such as taking her daughter to her first Backstreet Boys concert.&nbsp;“I mean, I’ve seen them (Backstreet Boys) three times, and my 7-year-old now wants to see them. So now I can take her because now she is a Backstreet Boys fan,” Evans said.

Sunshine in the Morning

Video games have a long history of movie tie-ins.&nbsp; Sometimes games are set in a movie universe without a specific movie tie-in. This allows the developers to play in that sandbox, but not be constrained by a specific plot.&nbsp;

“Spider-Man” on the PlayStation from Insomniac games is widely regarded as one of the best open-world games on the platform.

Spider-Man has an amazing story and a stellar voice cast to carry out that story.&nbsp;

The graphics are great and there are a wide variety of costumes to choose from.&nbsp;

Gameplay-wise you won’t have more fun than web swinging around and beating up bad guys. There are multiple add-ons including the Miles Morales stand-alone game.

“Alien Isolation” on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC is a master class in survival horror.&nbsp;

With the look and feel of the first movie, you set foot on an alien-infested ship, with little to help you stay alive.

It features all of the looks of the 70’s original movie without being hindered by a specific plot line. Hiding in lockers and hearing the slowly building beeping of your proximity detector will give anyone an anxiety attack.

“Mad Max” for the Playstation, Xbox, and PC is how you do a movie universe game without tying into a specific movie.&nbsp;

A giant open world filled with cobbled-together cars and freaky denizens will call to mind Mel Gibson regardless of the movie. Somehow this game slipped under most people’s radar. “Mad Max” is more fun than it has any right to be.

“The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape From Butcher Bay” is a great stealth-based action game based around the Riddick films. Sneak around the prison and take people out by attacking from the shadows.

Released on the original Xbox, this game was leagues ahead of most due to its fantastic lighting and texture work. By not being tied to a specific movie, the game was free to go its own way and is better for it. Vin Diesel supplied the voice and consulted on the game.

“Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World” for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC is one of the great cartoon beat-em-ups of modern times. The soundtrack alone is worth the price of admission. This one is more closely related to the original graphic novels than the movie. Sprinkle in some pixel characters that look just like their comic book counterparts and you have one of the great movie/ comic book brawlers.

“Middle Earth: Shadow of Mordor” for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC had all of the grandeur of Peter Jackson’s films and all of the gameplay of “Assassin’s Creed,” featuring lots of exploration and a good combat system that features stealth elements. Top that off with the Nemesis system where rivals will hunt you down to kill you and you have all of the makings of a great Lord of the Rings game.

There are plenty of other great movie-related games, but I’ve highlighted some of my readily available recent picks. Sometimes not being tied down by a specific movie can make the best possible game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/2/1676919724097.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Andy SchneiderVideo games have a long history of movie tie-ins.&nbsp; Sometimes games are set in a movie universe without a specific movie tie-in. This allows the developers to play in that sandbox, but not be constrained by a specific plot.&nbsp;Let’s run down a few of my favorites.“Spider-Man” on the PlayStation from Insomniac games is widely regarded as one of the best open-world games on the platform.Spider-Man has an amazing story and a stellar voice cast to carry out that story.&nbsp;The graphics are great and there are a wide variety of costumes to choose from.&nbsp;Gameplay-wise you won’t have more fun than web swinging around and beating up bad guys. There are multiple add-ons including the Miles Morales stand-alone game.“Alien Isolation” on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC is a master class in survival horror.&nbsp;With the look and feel of the first movie, you set foot on an alien-infested ship, with little to help you stay alive.It features all of the looks of the 70’s original movie without being hindered by a specific plot line. Hiding in lockers and hearing the slowly building beeping of your proximity detector will give anyone an anxiety attack.“Mad Max” for the Playstation, Xbox, and PC is how you do a movie universe game without tying into a specific movie.&nbsp;A giant open world filled with cobbled-together cars and freaky denizens will call to mind Mel Gibson regardless of the movie. Somehow this game slipped under most people’s radar. “Mad Max” is more fun than it has any right to be.“The Chronicles of Riddick: Escape From Butcher Bay” is a great stealth-based action game based around the Riddick films. Sneak around the prison and take people out by attacking from the shadows.Released on the original Xbox, this game was leagues ahead of most due to its fantastic lighting and texture work. By not being tied to a specific movie, the game was free to go its own way and is better for it. Vin Diesel supplied the voice and consulted on the game.“Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World” for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC is one of the great cartoon beat-em-ups of modern times. The soundtrack alone is worth the price of admission. This one is more closely related to the original graphic novels than the movie. Sprinkle in some pixel characters that look just like their comic book counterparts and you have one of the great movie/ comic book brawlers.“Middle Earth: Shadow of Mordor” for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC had all of the grandeur of Peter Jackson’s films and all of the gameplay of “Assassin’s Creed,” featuring lots of exploration and a good combat system that features stealth elements. Top that off with the Nemesis system where rivals will hunt you down to kill you and you have all of the makings of a great Lord of the Rings game.There are plenty of other great movie-related games, but I’ve highlighted some of my readily available recent picks. Sometimes not being tied down by a specific movie can make the best possible game.

Movie Related Video Games That Lack A Movie

Samuel Morehead, president of Burlington High School’s National Honor Society, stands next to fellow senior and club member Melanie Reid. The National Honor Society is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, which will include a reception on March 8 at the high school. Photo by William Smith

The National Honor Society at Burlington High School may just be the most helpful volunteer organization that hardly anyone outside of the school has heard of.

The current club membership — about 25 sophomores, juniors, and seniors — is starting to change that, finally gaining their due recognition.&nbsp;

Last week, the club celebrated its 100th anniversary by hosting the school’s first-ever teddy bear toss at a BHS basketball game. Spectators were encouraged to bring new stuffed animals to the game so they could throw them out on the court during halftime.&nbsp;

It was a resounding success, according to National Honor Society president Samuel Morehead.&nbsp;

“A much better success than I honestly expected. We ended up getting 208 I believe,” he said.

Those stuffed animals will be donated to a children’s hospital.&nbsp; It’s a first-time event for the club and by far its most visible.

It certainly won’t be the last teddy bear toss.

“I think it will just get bigger,” Morehead said.

Most of the time, club members work on the periphery of other worthwhile causes or events. They rake leaves for elderly residents in the fall. They help unload paper for recycling during in the spring during Clean Out Your Files Days and buzz around the annual Oktoberfest (hosted by the Burlington Noon Lions Club) like volunteer bees. In December, they help set up Memorial Auditorium for Toys for Tots.

The Burlington High School is the oldest National Honor Society charter in the state, consisting of generations of hard-working students with strong GPAs (grade point averages) looking to help those around them.

“It’s not just about your grade point average,” said fellow senior club member Melanie Reid. “They look for character.”

Students who apply for the National Honor Society undergo a peer review by an anonymous group of teachers. Aside from the base requirements of having a 3.4 GPA or higher, students are judged by their contributions and volunteer hours, as well as their leadership qualities. Freshmen have to wait for a year if they want a chance to join.

It’s a very proactive, self-sufficient group. Morehead said club members make sure to focus on a new service project every month. There’s still plenty of school year left.

“We will be doing some different things at the hospice house, and we will help out with (BHS) graduation,” Morehead said. “We’re also doing things with the elementary schools, where we will partner with them and help them with their field days. We’ve got a lot of good activities coming up.”

The National Honor Society will celebrate its 100th anniversary in a more formal way during a reception scheduled for 6 p.m. on March 8 at Burlington High School.&nbsp;

“We’re also inviting different people from the community, such as the mayor,” Morehead said. “It won’t be a super-long affair.”

Since they’re both seniors, Reid and Morehead will be passing the club torch to their classmates underneath them.

Both have big plans for college. Morehead wants to study biomedical science and has his colleges narrowed down to a few choices.&nbsp;

Reid will be heading straight to Southeastern Community College to go through the three-year nursing degree offered in partnership with Great River Health.

Both of them are involved in enough extra-curricular activities and clubs to keep their feet in constant motion. Graduation is just around the corner, though, and they will be exchanging one busy life for another.

Until then, Reid and Morehead will be garnering as much publicity about the National Honor Society as they can.

“People think that it’s just a smart kids club, but it’s a very fun group of people,” Reid said. “It’s a lot more than great students.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/2/1676914046643.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Samuel Morehead, president of Burlington High School’s National Honor Society, stands next to fellow senior and club member Melanie Reid. The National Honor Society is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, which will include a reception on March 8 at the high school. Photo by William SmithBy William SmithThe National Honor Society at Burlington High School may just be the most helpful volunteer organization that hardly anyone outside of the school has heard of.The current club membership — about 25 sophomores, juniors, and seniors — is starting to change that, finally gaining their due recognition.&nbsp;Last week, the club celebrated its 100th anniversary by hosting the school’s first-ever teddy bear toss at a BHS basketball game. Spectators were encouraged to bring new stuffed animals to the game so they could throw them out on the court during halftime.&nbsp;It was a resounding success, according to National Honor Society president Samuel Morehead.&nbsp;“A much better success than I honestly expected. We ended up getting 208 I believe,” he said.Those stuffed animals will be donated to a children’s hospital.&nbsp; It’s a first-time event for the club and by far its most visible.It certainly won’t be the last teddy bear toss.“I think it will just get bigger,” Morehead said.Most of the time, club members work on the periphery of other worthwhile causes or events. They rake leaves for elderly residents in the fall. They help unload paper for recycling during in the spring during Clean Out Your Files Days and buzz around the annual Oktoberfest (hosted by the Burlington Noon Lions Club) like volunteer bees. In December, they help set up Memorial Auditorium for Toys for Tots.The Burlington High School is the oldest National Honor Society charter in the state, consisting of generations of hard-working students with strong GPAs (grade point averages) looking to help those around them.“It’s not just about your grade point average,” said fellow senior club member Melanie Reid. “They look for character.”Students who apply for the National Honor Society undergo a peer review by an anonymous group of teachers. Aside from the base requirements of having a 3.4 GPA or higher, students are judged by their contributions and volunteer hours, as well as their leadership qualities. Freshmen have to wait for a year if they want a chance to join.It’s a very proactive, self-sufficient group. Morehead said club members make sure to focus on a new service project every month. There’s still plenty of school year left.“We will be doing some different things at the hospice house, and we will help out with (BHS) graduation,” Morehead said. “We’re also doing things with the elementary schools, where we will partner with them and help them with their field days. We’ve got a lot of good activities coming up.”The National Honor Society will celebrate its 100th anniversary in a more formal way during a reception scheduled for 6 p.m. on March 8 at Burlington High School.&nbsp;“We’re also inviting different people from the community, such as the mayor,” Morehead said. “It won’t be a super-long affair.”Since they’re both seniors, Reid and Morehead will be passing the club torch to their classmates underneath them.Both have big plans for college. Morehead wants to study biomedical science and has his colleges narrowed down to a few choices.&nbsp;Reid will be heading straight to Southeastern Community College to go through the three-year nursing degree offered in partnership with Great River Health.Both of them are involved in enough extra-curricular activities and clubs to keep their feet in constant motion. Graduation is just around the corner, though, and they will be exchanging one busy life for another.Until then, Reid and Morehead will be garnering as much publicity about the National Honor Society as they can.“People think that it’s just a smart kids club, but it’s a very fun group of people,” Reid said. “It’s a lot more than great students.”

 A Tradition of Helping

Above:&nbsp;A photograph from 1982 shows Wayne Easley next to his new wife, Sandra Easley, minutes after they were married in Mosquito Park that same year.

Sometimes, love and fate overlap, defying star-crossed random chance.

When Wayne Easley rescued his wife Sandy from the raging Skunk River in 1982, he had no romantic intent in mind. Neither did she.

“We loved each other very much,” Wayne said.

No amount of intervening circumstances could keep them apart. Wayne lost Sandy to cancer in August 2021 and has thought about her every day since. She was his world.

“I took care of Sandy for that seven, eight years doing her cancer therapy and treatments, all that kind of stuff,” Wayne said, wiping tears from his eyes.

A native of Memphis, Tenn., who eventually ended up in Burlington and worked at General Electric, Wayne had known Sandy and her sisters since they were young. He and his first wife were friends with Sandy’s oldest sister.

Wayne and his first wife were long divorced by the time Wayne reconnected with Sandy and her family in 1982.

Sandy, her boyfriend-at-the-time, her sister, and her sister’s husband were canoeing down the Skunk River by Oakland Mills to celebrate 1982’s Fourth of July holiday.

Easley and his friends were camping downriver, and he was eagerly awaiting the canoe trip to reach their campsite.

“I sat on the bank for about four-and-a-half hours waiting for them,” he said. “I could see the bridge crossing over the Skunk River. They were on the far side of the river, and I started waving.”

Upon seeing Wayne on the river bank, the canoe riders started paddling toward shore. But the river was up, the current was swift, and the canoe tipped over.

Wayne immediately went into a controlled panic.

“‘Oh my God!’ I yelled at my friends. The canoe tipped over,’ ” Easley said, reliving the incident. “I went running from one spot to another. I went over to this campsite and there were some people camping around there. And I asked if they had a rope.”

One of the campers handed Wayne a tangled, nylon ski rope.

“I threw the rope and pulled Carlotta (Sandy’s sister) to the shore,” he said. “I don’t know how many people were behind me, but there were a lot of people. I pulled, and people helped me.”

Carlotta told Wayne she wasn’t a strong swimmer and pleaded with him to rescue the others. The stiff current would be a threat to anyone who entered the water.

“I took the rope and went straight out for her (Sandy). I don’t know how I did it. To this day, I don’t know how I did it, but I swam out to her. And when I got to her, I got her feet from underneath the branches and I tied the rope on her. They pulled her to shore,” he said.

Wayne and Rusty Maddox, who was 18 at the time (Wayne was 34), managed to rescue everyone. They were later recognized by the Des Moines County Conservation Board for their life-saving efforts, and each of them received a letter from the executive director, Jeff Bergman.

“Many times a person will not endanger their own lives to save someone else who is in danger,” the letter reads.&nbsp;

“Fortunately, you were concerned about the other person and acted with an unselfish impulse.”

Easley wasn’t thinking of accolades while clinging to a tree in the middle of the Skunk River. He just wanted to get pulled back to shore without injury.

“I said, ‘Man, something’s going to hit me in the back of the head and I’m going to drown,’” Easley said.

By the time Easley made it to shore, everyone involved was exhausted and brimming with adrenaline. On the spur of the moment, Easley kissed Sandy, right in front of her then-boyfriend.

“He left.&nbsp; That was his mistake,” Easley said.

Sandy hung out with Easley and his friends that night, but she had a life in Dubuque to get back to. She eventually married the man she was canoeing with, though they divorced roughly six years later.

Sandy still lived in Dubuque, and Wayne lived in southeast Iowa. After her marriage ended, Sandy and Wayne became close friends – then something more. He still remembers the first time he knocked on her door.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/2/1676395848043.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Above:&nbsp;A photograph from 1982 shows Wayne Easley next to his new wife, Sandra Easley, minutes after they were married in Mosquito Park that same year.By&nbsp; William SmithSometimes, love and fate overlap, defying star-crossed random chance.When Wayne Easley rescued his wife Sandy from the raging Skunk River in 1982, he had no romantic intent in mind. Neither did she.“We loved each other very much,” Wayne said.No amount of intervening circumstances could keep them apart. Wayne lost Sandy to cancer in August 2021 and has thought about her every day since. She was his world.“I took care of Sandy for that seven, eight years doing her cancer therapy and treatments, all that kind of stuff,” Wayne said, wiping tears from his eyes.A native of Memphis, Tenn., who eventually ended up in Burlington and worked at General Electric, Wayne had known Sandy and her sisters since they were young. He and his first wife were friends with Sandy’s oldest sister.Wayne and his first wife were long divorced by the time Wayne reconnected with Sandy and her family in 1982.Then disaster struck.Sandy, her boyfriend-at-the-time, her sister, and her sister’s husband were canoeing down the Skunk River by Oakland Mills to celebrate 1982’s Fourth of July holiday.Easley and his friends were camping downriver, and he was eagerly awaiting the canoe trip to reach their campsite.“I sat on the bank for about four-and-a-half hours waiting for them,” he said. “I could see the bridge crossing over the Skunk River. They were on the far side of the river, and I started waving.”Upon seeing Wayne on the river bank, the canoe riders started paddling toward shore. But the river was up, the current was swift, and the canoe tipped over.Wayne immediately went into a controlled panic.“‘Oh my God!’ I yelled at my friends. The canoe tipped over,’ ” Easley said, reliving the incident. “I went running from one spot to another. I went over to this campsite and there were some people camping around there. And I asked if they had a rope.”One of the campers handed Wayne a tangled, nylon ski rope.“I threw the rope and pulled Carlotta (Sandy’s sister) to the shore,” he said. “I don’t know how many people were behind me, but there were a lot of people. I pulled, and people helped me.”Carlotta told Wayne she wasn’t a strong swimmer and pleaded with him to rescue the others. The stiff current would be a threat to anyone who entered the water.So Wayne jumped in.“I took the rope and went straight out for her (Sandy). I don’t know how I did it. To this day, I don’t know how I did it, but I swam out to her. And when I got to her, I got her feet from underneath the branches and I tied the rope on her. They pulled her to shore,” he said.Wayne and Rusty Maddox, who was 18 at the time (Wayne was 34), managed to rescue everyone. They were later recognized by the Des Moines County Conservation Board for their life-saving efforts, and each of them received a letter from the executive director, Jeff Bergman.“Many times a person will not endanger their own lives to save someone else who is in danger,” the letter reads.&nbsp;“Fortunately, you were concerned about the other person and acted with an unselfish impulse.”Easley wasn’t thinking of accolades while clinging to a tree in the middle of the Skunk River. He just wanted to get pulled back to shore without injury.“I said, ‘Man, something’s going to hit me in the back of the head and I’m going to drown,’” Easley said.By the time Easley made it to shore, everyone involved was exhausted and brimming with adrenaline. On the spur of the moment, Easley kissed Sandy, right in front of her then-boyfriend.“He left.&nbsp; That was his mistake,” Easley said.Sandy hung out with Easley and his friends that night, but she had a life in Dubuque to get back to. She eventually married the man she was canoeing with, though they divorced roughly six years later.Sandy still lived in Dubuque, and Wayne lived in southeast Iowa. After her marriage ended, Sandy and Wayne became close friends – then something more. He still remembers the first time he knocked on her door.“Oh my gosh. When Sandy came to the door, she was so happy to see me. So happy,” he said.As their relationship blossomed, Wayne kept threatening to go get her and bring her back as his wife. Eventually, he did just that.“I helped her pack everything. We moved to Burlington pulling this boat behind my car,” he said.The two would regularly eat breakfast at the Hy-Vee on Angular Street, staring at a photograph of Mosquito Park that hung on the wall.“We thought it would be a nice place to get married. So we got married there,” Wayne said.&nbsp;“We got married the same day Burt Reynolds and Lonnie Anderson got married — April 29, 1988.”It was the happiest day of Easley’s life. He openly wept as he described carrying his new wife across the threshold of their home.Sandy went on to become the structural supervisor for Hope Haven and loved collecting angel figurines. She had an entire “angel room” dedicated to her passion.But there was only one living angel in the Easley household. And Wayne misses her terribly.“She was a very special lady,” he said.