The Des Moines County Supervisors approved salary hikes for county officials Tuesday, Feb. 1, during the Board of Supervisors meeting.

Des Moines County compensation board member Dan Cahill presented a plan prepared by fellow board member Charlie Walsh during the meeting, asking for a 20 percent raise for Des Moines County Sheriff Kevin Glending and a 10 percent raise for Des Moines County Attorney Lisa Schaefer.&nbsp;

The board also recommended 10 percent raises for the Des Moines County auditor, Des Moines County Recorder, and Des Moines County Treasurer, as well as a 3 percent raise for the supervisors themselves.

Cahill said the raises would make the salaries commiserate to that of Iowa counties with similar-sized populations, and the “Back the Blue” law passed in 2021 specifies that the sheriff’s salary is comparable to command-level salaries at the Iowa State Patrol and city police chiefs.

The Des Moines County supervisors adopted the compensation board’s recommendations by cutting the salary hikes by 30 percent during Tuesday’s meeting.&nbsp;

They then voted unanimously to approve the salary hikes at the reduced percentage.

The Des Moines County Sheriff will receive a 14 percent pay increase, raising his salary from $108,372 to $123,544.

The Des Moines County Attorney will get a seven percent pay increase, raising her salary from $122,011 to $130,551.

The Des Moines County auditor, county recorder, and county treasurer will all receive seven percent pay raises.&nbsp;

The auditor’s salary will increase from $76,066 to $81,390, the county recorder’s salary will increase from $76,066 to $81,390, and the county treasurer’s salary will be raised from $75,359 to $80, 643.

The Des Moines County Supervisors — Shane McCampbell, Jim Cary, and Tom Broeker — will each receive a 2.1 percent raise, raising their salaries from $40,506 to 41,356.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/2/1675388095323.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Beacon StaffThe Des Moines County Supervisors approved salary hikes for county officials Tuesday, Feb. 1, during the Board of Supervisors meeting.Des Moines County compensation board member Dan Cahill presented a plan prepared by fellow board member Charlie Walsh during the meeting, asking for a 20 percent raise for Des Moines County Sheriff Kevin Glending and a 10 percent raise for Des Moines County Attorney Lisa Schaefer.&nbsp;The board also recommended 10 percent raises for the Des Moines County auditor, Des Moines County Recorder, and Des Moines County Treasurer, as well as a 3 percent raise for the supervisors themselves.Cahill said the raises would make the salaries commiserate to that of Iowa counties with similar-sized populations, and the “Back the Blue” law passed in 2021 specifies that the sheriff’s salary is comparable to command-level salaries at the Iowa State Patrol and city police chiefs.The Des Moines County supervisors adopted the compensation board’s recommendations by cutting the salary hikes by 30 percent during Tuesday’s meeting.&nbsp;They then voted unanimously to approve the salary hikes at the reduced percentage.The Des Moines County Sheriff will receive a 14 percent pay increase, raising his salary from $108,372 to $123,544.The Des Moines County Attorney will get a seven percent pay increase, raising her salary from $122,011 to $130,551.The Des Moines County auditor, county recorder, and county treasurer will all receive seven percent pay raises.&nbsp;The auditor’s salary will increase from $76,066 to $81,390, the county recorder’s salary will increase from $76,066 to $81,390, and the county treasurer’s salary will be raised from $75,359 to $80, 643.The Des Moines County Supervisors — Shane McCampbell, Jim Cary, and Tom Broeker — will each receive a 2.1 percent raise, raising their salaries from $40,506 to 41,356.

 Board OKs County Salary Hikes

Above: Nate Pace, manager of both the Blaul and Churchill Lofts, talks about commercial space in the Churchill Lofts building at 116 N. Fifth St. in downtown Burlington. The downtown Burlington apartment complex is open for business.&nbsp;Photo/John Lovretta

The Churchill Loft’s 48-unit apartment complex at 100 N. Fourth St. (the corner of Fourth and Valley Street) is finally open for business — and the market-rate apartments are going fast.

The building houses 15 one-bedroom units varying in size from 674 to 1,140 square feet. Price-wise, the apartments range from $850 to $1,100 per month.

There are 30 two-bedrooms ranging from 867 to 1,685 square feet and priced from $1,160 to $1,550 per month. There are three, 1,560-square-foot three-bedrooms for $1,625 per month.

Each unit has a spacious bathroom, some with double sinks, and an open floor concept with high ceilings.

The Churchill Lofts also sports a first-floor commercial space consisting of four units, including the space formerly occupied by Mr. Moto’s Public House, which is nearly finished.

Above: The kitchen of an apartment in Churchill Lofts is shown. Photo/John Lovretta

The first floor is equipped with a recreation area, giving tenants access to the fitness center at Blaul Lofts at 425 Valley St. Y &amp; J Properties recently finished converting the building into 38 apartment units, with a ground-floor commercial space currently occupied by Lynne’s Food Cravings and Parties Unlimited.

The Churchill building was constructed in 1907 and housed a factory before serving as the home of Churchill Drug Co. until 1928. Kevin Bangert, who owned Moto’s, sold the building to Y&amp;J in 2018.

The Ebert building was constructed in 1900 as a wagon factory and blacksmith shop by John H. Ebert &amp; Sons, which changed its name to Ebert Supply Co. in 1950. Ewinger Supply Co. purchased the building in 1957, and the building was used as storage until Ewinger sold it to Burlington Trading Co.

The developers have worked to restore or keep as many of the building’s original components as possible. That includes retaining the large wood columns and rafters, as well as 277 windows that were restored.

The units themselves include stainless-steel appliances, granite countertops, an in-unit washer/dryer, historic windows, natural sunlight, hardwood floors, large bedrooms with closet space, a private parking lot, and open floor plans made for hosting friends and family,

One of the big selling points of the apartments is the pet-friendly rules. The grassy area between the Ebert and Churchill buildings will be transformed into a community green space where families can bring their pets, and those pets are allowed in the apartments as well.

Property manager Nate Pace said Churchill Lofts is equipped with security cameras accessible via key fobs. It was one of the most requested features – that and the pets.

“This is a big town for pets,” Pace said.

In addition to the Churchill Lofts, Pace has also opened a new gym – Fit on Fifth. The boutique gym is free to tenants of the loft, and gym memberships for the general public are $28 per month. First responders, as well as members of the police, fire department, and corrections can get a membership for $30 every three months. Military veterans and those currently serving can use the gym for free.

The gym sports a unique look that consists of exposed brick and old wooden beams and includes free weights, a personal trainer, Matrix exercise machines, a Smith machine, two cable crossover machines, Muay Thai instruction, and heavy bags. The gym is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily and is located at 104 N. Fifth St.

Above:&nbsp;Fit on Fifth, a gym located in the Blaul Loft building, in downtown Burlington. Photo/John Lovretta

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1675180296792.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Above: Nate Pace, manager of both the Blaul and Churchill Lofts, talks about commercial space in the Churchill Lofts building at 116 N. Fifth St. in downtown Burlington. The downtown Burlington apartment complex is open for business.&nbsp;Photo/John LovrettaBy William SmithThe Churchill Loft’s 48-unit apartment complex at 100 N. Fourth St. (the corner of Fourth and Valley Street) is finally open for business — and the market-rate apartments are going fast.The building houses 15 one-bedroom units varying in size from 674 to 1,140 square feet. Price-wise, the apartments range from $850 to $1,100 per month.There are 30 two-bedrooms ranging from 867 to 1,685 square feet and priced from $1,160 to $1,550 per month. There are three, 1,560-square-foot three-bedrooms for $1,625 per month.Each unit has a spacious bathroom, some with double sinks, and an open floor concept with high ceilings.The Churchill Lofts also sports a first-floor commercial space consisting of four units, including the space formerly occupied by Mr. Moto’s Public House, which is nearly finished.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1675180499745.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Above: The kitchen of an apartment in Churchill Lofts is shown. Photo/John LovrettaThe first floor is equipped with a recreation area, giving tenants access to the fitness center at Blaul Lofts at 425 Valley St. Y &amp; J Properties recently finished converting the building into 38 apartment units, with a ground-floor commercial space currently occupied by Lynne’s Food Cravings and Parties Unlimited.The Churchill building was constructed in 1907 and housed a factory before serving as the home of Churchill Drug Co. until 1928. Kevin Bangert, who owned Moto’s, sold the building to Y&amp;J in 2018.The Ebert building was constructed in 1900 as a wagon factory and blacksmith shop by John H. Ebert &amp; Sons, which changed its name to Ebert Supply Co. in 1950. Ewinger Supply Co. purchased the building in 1957, and the building was used as storage until Ewinger sold it to Burlington Trading Co.The developers have worked to restore or keep as many of the building’s original components as possible. That includes retaining the large wood columns and rafters, as well as 277 windows that were restored.The units themselves include stainless-steel appliances, granite countertops, an in-unit washer/dryer, historic windows, natural sunlight, hardwood floors, large bedrooms with closet space, a private parking lot, and open floor plans made for hosting friends and family,Pets AllowedOne of the big selling points of the apartments is the pet-friendly rules. The grassy area between the Ebert and Churchill buildings will be transformed into a community green space where families can bring their pets, and those pets are allowed in the apartments as well.Property manager Nate Pace said Churchill Lofts is equipped with security cameras accessible via key fobs. It was one of the most requested features – that and the pets.“This is a big town for pets,” Pace said.Fit on FifthIn addition to the Churchill Lofts, Pace has also opened a new gym – Fit on Fifth. The boutique gym is free to tenants of the loft, and gym memberships for the general public are $28 per month. First responders, as well as members of the police, fire department, and corrections can get a membership for $30 every three months. Military veterans and those currently serving can use the gym for free.The gym sports a unique look that consists of exposed brick and old wooden beams and includes free weights, a personal trainer, Matrix exercise machines, a Smith machine, two cable crossover machines, Muay Thai instruction, and heavy bags. The gym is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily and is located at 104 N. Fifth St.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1675180573025.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Above:&nbsp;Fit on Fifth, a gym located in the Blaul Loft building, in downtown Burlington. Photo/John Lovretta

Lofty Goal: Offering Housing In Downtown Burlington

Above: Evan Pauly beats a drum to lead a group down the sidewalk in downtown Fort Madison on Saturday, Jan. 28, as part of the North Lee County Right to Life group's annual March for Life. About 75 people took part in the march.&nbsp; Photo/Chris Faulkner

Seven months ago in June 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court struck the nearly 50-year-old Roe v. Wade ruling that made Constitutional a women's right to get an abortion.

Not long after the Jan. 22, 1973, decision on Roe, a group of Fort Madison and area residents started the North Lee County Right to Life chapter.

Every January since — coinciding with the Jan. 22 date — the group began holding a March for Life through Fort Madison's downtown, promoting its support for the unborn.

The court's ruling last summer didn't ban abortions but left it up to state governments to decide, so the group continues to march.

“We're still kind of the same,” march coordinator Judy Pauly said of the Right to Life group's purpose. “We're still trying to hope someday the decisions that people make are based on love for a child. There's other options for you.”

Instead of walking down the middle of the street through three downtown blocks, Pauly said they were informed by the city that groups could no longer do that unless they had insurance for liability reasons and paid for barricades and police traffic control.

The group opted to stay on the sidewalks, and some members acted as crossing guards when the marchers crossed at an intersection.

About 75 people took to the sidewalks, most holding signs with various statements supporting their pro-life views.

One of them was 12-year-old Emma Menke of St. Paul.

“It goes along with my faith,” she said of what formed her pro-life view.

Pauly said the group continues to march because when Roe v. Wade passed, “We were losing babies. That has not changed, unfortunately."

“I look at it as we're the voice for those who don't have a voice,” she added.

The contention is often when life begins, and to the North Lee County Right to Life organization, “From conception to birth, they're still a baby,” Pauly said. “They look different than everybody else. They have different DNA than everybody else. They're unique.

“We just feel that each child has a right to live."

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1675179866065.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Above: Evan Pauly beats a drum to lead a group down the sidewalk in downtown Fort Madison on Saturday, Jan. 28, as part of the North Lee County Right to Life group's annual March for Life. About 75 people took part in the march.&nbsp; Photo/Chris FaulknerBy Chris FaulknerSeven months ago in June 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court struck the nearly 50-year-old Roe v. Wade ruling that made Constitutional a women's right to get an abortion.Not long after the Jan. 22, 1973, decision on Roe, a group of Fort Madison and area residents started the North Lee County Right to Life chapter.Every January since — coinciding with the Jan. 22 date — the group began holding a March for Life through Fort Madison's downtown, promoting its support for the unborn.The court's ruling last summer didn't ban abortions but left it up to state governments to decide, so the group continues to march.“We're still kind of the same,” march coordinator Judy Pauly said of the Right to Life group's purpose. “We're still trying to hope someday the decisions that people make are based on love for a child. There's other options for you.”Instead of walking down the middle of the street through three downtown blocks, Pauly said they were informed by the city that groups could no longer do that unless they had insurance for liability reasons and paid for barricades and police traffic control.The group opted to stay on the sidewalks, and some members acted as crossing guards when the marchers crossed at an intersection.About 75 people took to the sidewalks, most holding signs with various statements supporting their pro-life views.One of them was 12-year-old Emma Menke of St. Paul.“It goes along with my faith,” she said of what formed her pro-life view.Pauly said the group continues to march because when Roe v. Wade passed, “We were losing babies. That has not changed, unfortunately."“I look at it as we're the voice for those who don't have a voice,” she added.The contention is often when life begins, and to the North Lee County Right to Life organization, “From conception to birth, they're still a baby,” Pauly said. “They look different than everybody else. They have different DNA than everybody else. They're unique.“We just feel that each child has a right to live."

Area Residents March for Life in Fort Madison

Above: Morgan Hoenig, local foods coordinator and master gardener coordinator with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, talks about corn to first graders in Becky Davis’ North Hill Elementary School classroom in Burlington. Photo/John Lovretta

Morgan Hoenig owns and operates an organic farm in Mount Pleasant, and likes to empower kids through food — the kind of fruits and vegetables some children have never seen or tasted.

Hoenig, who also works at the Iowa State University Extension office, heads up the Taste of Iowa program at the Iowa State University Extension Office that exposes first-grade children to new foods. The program is relatively new, only two years old. Her goal is to reach kids at an early age so they can understand food and where it comes from.

Above:&nbsp;DJ Smith, a first-grade student in Becky Davis’ North Hill Elementary School classroom, enjoys some popcorn during the presentation about corn. Photo/John Lovretta

“The kids are not allowed to say yuck. Don’t yuck my yum!” Hoenig said.

Apples from Lee County, carrots and beans from Iowa, popcorn from Hoenig’s research farm, maple syrup from Illinois — it’s all fair game. After trying the new foods, the students are given a choice between “Liked,” “Loved,” or “Tried.”

Their responses fill a poster that hangs in the classroom, allowing other students to see what their friends have eaten.

“Positive peer pressure is very important,” Hoenig said. “When kids next to them say ‘yum, it makes them more likely to try something.&nbsp;

Hoenig said she wanted the kids to “taste the difference between homegrown and store-made products.” She uses syrup as a classroom example, showing the kids the difference between corn syrup and actual raw maple syrup.

Hoenig said the thrust of the program is to connect children back to farm-grown products that they likely have encountered before.

“Adults and kids are disconnected (from food),” Hoenig said.

Hoenig’s office presents the food program through Des Moines County schools, which includes Danville, Mediapolis, North Hill, and Blackhawk Elementary Schools. Hoenig herself has won multiple grants for her one-woman organic farm, which garnered a visit from President Obama.

Hoenig and county youth coordinator Mary Steffener take the program directly into the schools and encourage parents not to discourage their children from trying new foods.

“One of the best parts of my job is when parents call her excited because their child had tried a new food,” Hoenig said.

Above:&nbsp;Catherine Malatek, a first-grade student in Becky Davis North Hill Elementary School classroom enjoys some popcorn during a presentation about corn by Morgan Hoenig, local foods coordinator and master gardener coordinator with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Photo/John Lovretta

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1674931772198.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Above: Morgan Hoenig, local foods coordinator and master gardener coordinator with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, talks about corn to first graders in Becky Davis’ North Hill Elementary School classroom in Burlington. Photo/John LovrettaBy Andy SchneiderMorgan Hoenig owns and operates an organic farm in Mount Pleasant, and likes to empower kids through food — the kind of fruits and vegetables some children have never seen or tasted.Hoenig, who also works at the Iowa State University Extension office, heads up the Taste of Iowa program at the Iowa State University Extension Office that exposes first-grade children to new foods. The program is relatively new, only two years old. Her goal is to reach kids at an early age so they can understand food and where it comes from.Then they get to taste it.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1674932443652.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Above:&nbsp;DJ Smith, a first-grade student in Becky Davis’ North Hill Elementary School classroom, enjoys some popcorn during the presentation about corn. Photo/John Lovretta“The kids are not allowed to say yuck. Don’t yuck my yum!” Hoenig said.Apples from Lee County, carrots and beans from Iowa, popcorn from Hoenig’s research farm, maple syrup from Illinois — it’s all fair game. After trying the new foods, the students are given a choice between “Liked,” “Loved,” or “Tried.”Their responses fill a poster that hangs in the classroom, allowing other students to see what their friends have eaten.“Positive peer pressure is very important,” Hoenig said. “When kids next to them say ‘yum, it makes them more likely to try something.&nbsp;Hoenig said she wanted the kids to “taste the difference between homegrown and store-made products.” She uses syrup as a classroom example, showing the kids the difference between corn syrup and actual raw maple syrup.Hoenig said the thrust of the program is to connect children back to farm-grown products that they likely have encountered before.“Adults and kids are disconnected (from food),” Hoenig said.Hoenig’s office presents the food program through Des Moines County schools, which includes Danville, Mediapolis, North Hill, and Blackhawk Elementary Schools. Hoenig herself has won multiple grants for her one-woman organic farm, which garnered a visit from President Obama.Hoenig and county youth coordinator Mary Steffener take the program directly into the schools and encourage parents not to discourage their children from trying new foods.“One of the best parts of my job is when parents call her excited because their child had tried a new food,” Hoenig said.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1674932590392.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Above:&nbsp;Catherine Malatek, a first-grade student in Becky Davis North Hill Elementary School classroom enjoys some popcorn during a presentation about corn by Morgan Hoenig, local foods coordinator and master gardener coordinator with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Photo/John Lovretta

Healthy kids, healthy choices: Program teaches kids the roots of food

Above:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ukrainian refugees Nina Rozum, her grandson Yehor, and her daughter Viktoriia, pose for a photograph in Burlington.&nbsp;The family left war-torn Ukraine for a new life in Burlington. Photo/John Lovretta

It’s been about a year since Russia invaded Ukraine.

An eternity for Ukrainian refugee Viktoriia Rozum, her 15-year-old son Yehor Rozum, and Viktoriia’s mother Nina Rozum who were looking for a way out of war-torn Ukraine.

“I had a good job in Ukraine. I worked in a commercial bank, my mother worked in a state kindergarten, and my son studied at school and had good grades. My son knows history well and participated in school Olympiads,” Viktoriia said.

The Rozum family found their refuge from the war in Burlington, arriving to stay with a host family last summer. They stayed with another host family after that and just moved into their own apartment a few weeks ago.

Because of her previous employment as a civil servant in Ukraine’s treasury, Viktoriia fears she and her family could be a target if they go back. Even if they did go back, their home in Ukraine has been bombed relentlessly.

“Unfortunately, in my region in the Donetsk region, 80 percent of the entire infrastructure has been destroyed,” Viktoriia said, tears forming in her eyes as she spoke into a translation app.&nbsp;

“Where my house was, unfortunately, now there is no way to restore all the destruction brought on by the war.&nbsp;

Due to his youth and previous exposure to English, Yehor was the best English speaker in the family — and still is. But his syntax and word recognition were rough, and he would often say “I understand” when he was confused by an English speaker.

In the months since then, Yehor’s English has improved exponentially.&nbsp;

He currently attends Burlington High School as well as ESL (English as a Second Language) classes, and never uses a translator app.&nbsp;

He can hold a conversation with friends and strangers and has purposefully avoided using translation apps. He figures relying on the program would only stunt his understanding of English.

“I want to learn English quickly,” he said.

His mother and grandmother are learning too. They both take ESL classes at Southeastern Community College, and Viktoriia can communicate much better than when she arrived.

She used some of her new English (sans translation app) to make Yehor blush as he was talking about all the new friends he has made at school.

“He has a girlfriend,” Viktoriia said with a smile.

Yehor immediately waved his arms to indicate that it was not true, saying: “We just talk a lot.”

Yehor is eager to soak in as much American culture as he can. He still likes to talk to his friends in Ukraine nearly every day, but he’s started to settle into his new life.&nbsp; Now he wants a job, as soon as possible. Nights, weekends — it doesn’t matter to Yehor.

“I would like to be able to help support my family,” he said.

Yehor isn’t the only one looking. Viktoriia has already had one job interview at Shearer’s Foods and is set up for a second interview. Viktoriia will be taking her driving test next week, which will allow her to become more self-sufficient in getting to work and shopping.&nbsp;

Above:&nbsp;Viktoriia Rozum uses a translation app on her phone to express her gratitude to the people of Burlington who have helped her family after fleeing war-torn Ukraine.&nbsp;Photo/John Lovretta

A loose but dedicated group of churches and volunteers have been helping the Rozums for the past few months, providing transportation, necessities, and other items.&nbsp;

The volunteers also helped the Rozums financially and physically, helping to pay for the apartment and helping them move in. Viktoriia said she can’t show enough gratitude for all they have done.

“I want to say that the kind and considerate people of Burlington and their friends from all over America have helped me throughout our stay in Burlington,” she said.

Viktoriia and her family are all in for America. They consider this their new home, and they want to contribute. They appreciate the support America has shown Ukraine.

“I consider it my duty to work, pay taxes, and be a full resident of the USA. I want to thank every citizen of the United States for supporting my country. In the near future, I will be able to continue to help my country and support my family and friends in Ukraine, who cannot leave my homeland,” Viktoriia said.

There’s still more to do before reaching that point. The new apartment has neither a television nor internet access, and the locals who have been helping them would like to get a TV in there to further help the Rozums with their English assimilation. Internet access is even more vital since Yehor needs it to complete his homework assignments.

Those who would like to help the Rozums can contribute to a GoFundMe page, which can be found on the GoFundMe website by searching for “Rozum Family.”

In the meantime, the Rozums keep busy, occasionally killing time by playing chess. It’s a family tradition that started with Yehor’s grandmother Nina and was passed on to him through his mother, Viktoriia. She currently attends bi-monthly meetings of the Burlington Chess Club and has a lot more to teach Yehor.

“She is better than me. I’m just learning,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1674930965321.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Above:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ukrainian refugees Nina Rozum, her grandson Yehor, and her daughter Viktoriia, pose for a photograph in Burlington.&nbsp;The family left war-torn Ukraine for a new life in Burlington. Photo/John LovrettaBy William SmithIt’s been about a year since Russia invaded Ukraine.An eternity for Ukrainian refugee Viktoriia Rozum, her 15-year-old son Yehor Rozum, and Viktoriia’s mother Nina Rozum who were looking for a way out of war-torn Ukraine.“I had a good job in Ukraine. I worked in a commercial bank, my mother worked in a state kindergarten, and my son studied at school and had good grades. My son knows history well and participated in school Olympiads,” Viktoriia said.The Rozum family found their refuge from the war in Burlington, arriving to stay with a host family last summer. They stayed with another host family after that and just moved into their own apartment a few weeks ago.Because of her previous employment as a civil servant in Ukraine’s treasury, Viktoriia fears she and her family could be a target if they go back. Even if they did go back, their home in Ukraine has been bombed relentlessly.“Unfortunately, in my region in the Donetsk region, 80 percent of the entire infrastructure has been destroyed,” Viktoriia said, tears forming in her eyes as she spoke into a translation app.&nbsp;“Where my house was, unfortunately, now there is no way to restore all the destruction brought on by the war.&nbsp;Recovery will take 10 years or more.Adapting to AmericaDue to his youth and previous exposure to English, Yehor was the best English speaker in the family — and still is. But his syntax and word recognition were rough, and he would often say “I understand” when he was confused by an English speaker.In the months since then, Yehor’s English has improved exponentially.&nbsp;He currently attends Burlington High School as well as ESL (English as a Second Language) classes, and never uses a translator app.&nbsp;He can hold a conversation with friends and strangers and has purposefully avoided using translation apps. He figures relying on the program would only stunt his understanding of English.“I want to learn English quickly,” he said.His mother and grandmother are learning too. They both take ESL classes at Southeastern Community College, and Viktoriia can communicate much better than when she arrived.She used some of her new English (sans translation app) to make Yehor blush as he was talking about all the new friends he has made at school.“He has a girlfriend,” Viktoriia said with a smile.Yehor immediately waved his arms to indicate that it was not true, saying: “We just talk a lot.” 
Learning the cultureYehor is eager to soak in as much American culture as he can. He still likes to talk to his friends in Ukraine nearly every day, but he’s started to settle into his new life.&nbsp; Now he wants a job, as soon as possible. Nights, weekends — it doesn’t matter to Yehor.“I would like to be able to help support my family,” he said.Yehor isn’t the only one looking. Viktoriia has already had one job interview at Shearer’s Foods and is set up for a second interview. Viktoriia will be taking her driving test next week, which will allow her to become more self-sufficient in getting to work and shopping.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1674931222702.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Above:&nbsp;Viktoriia Rozum uses a translation app on her phone to express her gratitude to the people of Burlington who have helped her family after fleeing war-torn Ukraine.&nbsp;Photo/John LovrettaA loose but dedicated group of churches and volunteers have been helping the Rozums for the past few months, providing transportation, necessities, and other items.&nbsp;The volunteers also helped the Rozums financially and physically, helping to pay for the apartment and helping them move in. Viktoriia said she can’t show enough gratitude for all they have done.“I want to say that the kind and considerate people of Burlington and their friends from all over America have helped me throughout our stay in Burlington,” she said.Viktoriia and her family are all in for America. They consider this their new home, and they want to contribute. They appreciate the support America has shown Ukraine.“I consider it my duty to work, pay taxes, and be a full resident of the USA. I want to thank every citizen of the United States for supporting my country. In the near future, I will be able to continue to help my country and support my family and friends in Ukraine, who cannot leave my homeland,” Viktoriia said.There’s still more to do before reaching that point. The new apartment has neither a television nor internet access, and the locals who have been helping them would like to get a TV in there to further help the Rozums with their English assimilation. Internet access is even more vital since Yehor needs it to complete his homework assignments.Those who would like to help the Rozums can contribute to a GoFundMe page, which can be found on the GoFundMe website by searching for “Rozum Family.”In the meantime, the Rozums keep busy, occasionally killing time by playing chess. It’s a family tradition that started with Yehor’s grandmother Nina and was passed on to him through his mother, Viktoriia. She currently attends bi-monthly meetings of the Burlington Chess Club and has a lot more to teach Yehor.And not just about chess.“She is better than me. I’m just learning,” he said.

Embracing America: War refugees call Burlington home

Slowly but surely, funding is rolling into the Dankwardt Park Playground project.

Eric Tysland, Community Development and Parks Director reported that nearly $1 million has been raised or committed to the new playground, which will be installed later this year. That includes in-kind donations and services from area businesses.

The $1.9 million playground will be accessible to all children and designed with features specifically catered to those with special needs. Fundraising is ongoing.

“Hopefully, the playground will be completed this summer,” Tysland said.

Measuring 6,500 square feet, the playground will include a wheelchair-inclusive spinner, wheelchair-inclusive swings, a tire swing, musical instruments, rocks for climbing, swinging benches for parents, and a double tower structure that reaches into the trees.

The city hired Confluence, an architecture and urban design firm out of Cedar Rapids, to design the playground.

“We want to bring the playground up into the trees. Kind of that tree house effect. There’s a lot of unique opportunities for play in this tower,” Tysland said.

Tysland said beloved aspects of the old playground will be incorporated into the new one. The west side of the playground will be designated as a play area for toddlers between the ages of 2 and 5. The area will also be festooned with benches for parents, and a landscaped berm will surround part of the playground to encourage children to stay in the play area.

Tysland said the playground will offer a challenging and imaginative experience. The layout will allow individuals of all ages and abilities to explore, have fun, interact, and enjoy the park.

Nick MacGregor, assistant city manager for public works, had some good news for the council regarding the rail crossing at the 800 block of Jefferson Street.

The crossing, which has been closed since June of 2022, will be open sooner rather than later. Portzen Construction crews started work to cut away curbing near the railroad crossing at the 800 block of Jefferson Street Monday.

By reducing the curbing altered by TIGER-granted funded construction, the crossing can be reopened without disrupting the quiet zone, which bars passing trains from blowing their horns.

MacGregor and Burlington Mayor Jon Billups have been adamant about getting the crossing reopened since it was closed six months ago. The closure, instigated by BNSF, has been a continuing source of contention between BNSF and the city.

• The city’s Goal Setting Final Report and Priorities for 2022-2024.

• A resolution approving nuisance abatements for various properties.

• A resolution approving an application for funds through the enhanced Iowa Community Attraction and Tourism Program of the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

• Resolution approving an agreement for professional services for the Dankwardt Park playground project

• Resolution authorizing the filing of an application with the state of Iowa and Southeast Iowa Regional Planning for STBG Funds for improvements on Sunnyside Avenue from U.S. 61 to Osborn Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1674325803543.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Beacon StaffSlowly but surely, funding is rolling into the Dankwardt Park Playground project.Eric Tysland, Community Development and Parks Director reported that nearly $1 million has been raised or committed to the new playground, which will be installed later this year. That includes in-kind donations and services from area businesses.The $1.9 million playground will be accessible to all children and designed with features specifically catered to those with special needs. Fundraising is ongoing.“Hopefully, the playground will be completed this summer,” Tysland said.Measuring 6,500 square feet, the playground will include a wheelchair-inclusive spinner, wheelchair-inclusive swings, a tire swing, musical instruments, rocks for climbing, swinging benches for parents, and a double tower structure that reaches into the trees.The city hired Confluence, an architecture and urban design firm out of Cedar Rapids, to design the playground.“We want to bring the playground up into the trees. Kind of that tree house effect. There’s a lot of unique opportunities for play in this tower,” Tysland said.Tysland said beloved aspects of the old playground will be incorporated into the new one. The west side of the playground will be designated as a play area for toddlers between the ages of 2 and 5. The area will also be festooned with benches for parents, and a landscaped berm will surround part of the playground to encourage children to stay in the play area.Tysland said the playground will offer a challenging and imaginative experience. The layout will allow individuals of all ages and abilities to explore, have fun, interact, and enjoy the park.Nick MacGregor, assistant city manager for public works, had some good news for the council regarding the rail crossing at the 800 block of Jefferson Street.The crossing, which has been closed since June of 2022, will be open sooner rather than later. Portzen Construction crews started work to cut away curbing near the railroad crossing at the 800 block of Jefferson Street Monday.By reducing the curbing altered by TIGER-granted funded construction, the crossing can be reopened without disrupting the quiet zone, which bars passing trains from blowing their horns.MacGregor and Burlington Mayor Jon Billups have been adamant about getting the crossing reopened since it was closed six months ago. The closure, instigated by BNSF, has been a continuing source of contention between BNSF and the city.In other business, the council approved:• The city’s Goal Setting Final Report and Priorities for 2022-2024.• A resolution approving nuisance abatements for various properties.• A resolution approving an application for funds through the enhanced Iowa Community Attraction and Tourism Program of the Iowa Economic Development Authority.• Resolution approving an agreement for professional services for the Dankwardt Park playground project• Resolution authorizing the filing of an application with the state of Iowa and Southeast Iowa Regional Planning for STBG Funds for improvements on Sunnyside Avenue from U.S. 61 to Osborn Street.

Playground raises $1M; Work begins on closed Jefferson Street crossing

Great food, beer, and cocktails are always in demand.&nbsp;

V.O.’s MMXV, the former Bent River Brewery at 500 Jefferson St. in downtown Burlington, seeks to add a rotating menu of tasty and unique items to the local restaurant scene.&nbsp;

The name is the initials of owners Tony and Angela VanOrder. The Roman numerals are the year of their marriage.&nbsp;

The VanOrders purchased the business last year from Becky Anderson of Burlington.&nbsp;

“We shot all kinds of names out there, and everybody was like, just make it about you guys,” said VanOrder.&nbsp;

“MMXV is just when Angela and I got married,” said Tony VanOrder.&nbsp;

The couple sought to offer a little bit of everything with varied tastes from all over the world.&nbsp;

V.O’s has overhauled the menu and is offering tasty and fresh new options made in-house.

There are a variety of freshly made smash burgers brimming with flavor and offered in as many patties as you can handle.&nbsp;

“We wanna turn downtown into a place where you can come get different stuff,” Tony VanOrder said.

VO’s also offers fish or pork belly tacos as well, to satisfy almost any palate.&nbsp;

“I do everything I can to not copy off of everybody,” he said.&nbsp;

“For the fish and chips, I use a 10-ounce beer-battered red snapper fillet.”

Additionally, there will be a rotating cast of beers on tap from craft breweries.

“We won’t know what they are until they bring it to us,” Tony VanOrder said.&nbsp;

When asked about the overall atmosphere, he said it is casual dining that is family oriented.

The restaurant has always been a spacious building. The building sat vacant for several years before it became Bent River.&nbsp;

There have been slight aesthetic changes to the restaurant. They are transitioning to a music-themed restaurant.

For better viewing, VanOrder said the center wall has been lowered in spots so that people sitting on the barside can view the bands.

“There will never be a cover,” VanOrder said very adamantly. VanOrder himself spent 24 years in the active and reserve military. Tony did several tours during conflicts like the Iraq War and Afghanistan.&nbsp;

He retired last year, and it was a natural transition point to taking over the restaurant. Angela VanOrder is a registered nurse of 23 years.&nbsp;

For the past 10 years, she has been the clinical director for the Department of Labor. The VanOrder children also work at the restaurant as waitresses and busboys.&nbsp;

“It’s a family operation,” Angela VanOrder said.&nbsp;

The couple owns Corked 101, a wine bar with charcuterie boards and flatbreads in Burlington.

They also own Corked Wine and Barrel, a wine and whiskey bar with food offerings in Fort Madison. Wines from Corked 101 will be available at V.O.’s. Tony VanOrder shared that the restaurant’s motto is “always forward.”

“Learning to push forward and not look back,” Tony said, was an important lesson.

What’s in a name? At V.O.’s, you can count on a friendly and relaxed dining experience.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1674168402847.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Andy SchneiderGreat food, beer, and cocktails are always in demand.&nbsp;V.O.’s MMXV, the former Bent River Brewery at 500 Jefferson St. in downtown Burlington, seeks to add a rotating menu of tasty and unique items to the local restaurant scene.&nbsp;The name is the initials of owners Tony and Angela VanOrder. The Roman numerals are the year of their marriage.&nbsp;The VanOrders purchased the business last year from Becky Anderson of Burlington.&nbsp;“We shot all kinds of names out there, and everybody was like, just make it about you guys,” said VanOrder.&nbsp;“MMXV is just when Angela and I got married,” said Tony VanOrder.&nbsp;The couple sought to offer a little bit of everything with varied tastes from all over the world.&nbsp;V.O’s has overhauled the menu and is offering tasty and fresh new options made in-house.There are a variety of freshly made smash burgers brimming with flavor and offered in as many patties as you can handle.&nbsp;“We wanna turn downtown into a place where you can come get different stuff,” Tony VanOrder said.VO’s also offers fish or pork belly tacos as well, to satisfy almost any palate.&nbsp;“I do everything I can to not copy off of everybody,” he said.&nbsp;“For the fish and chips, I use a 10-ounce beer-battered red snapper fillet.”Additionally, there will be a rotating cast of beers on tap from craft breweries.“We won’t know what they are until they bring it to us,” Tony VanOrder said.&nbsp;When asked about the overall atmosphere, he said it is casual dining that is family oriented.The restaurant has always been a spacious building. The building sat vacant for several years before it became Bent River.&nbsp;There have been slight aesthetic changes to the restaurant. They are transitioning to a music-themed restaurant.For better viewing, VanOrder said the center wall has been lowered in spots so that people sitting on the barside can view the bands.“There will never be a cover,” VanOrder said very adamantly. VanOrder himself spent 24 years in the active and reserve military. Tony did several tours during conflicts like the Iraq War and Afghanistan.&nbsp;He retired last year, and it was a natural transition point to taking over the restaurant. Angela VanOrder is a registered nurse of 23 years.&nbsp;For the past 10 years, she has been the clinical director for the Department of Labor. The VanOrder children also work at the restaurant as waitresses and busboys.&nbsp;“It’s a family operation,” Angela VanOrder said.&nbsp;The couple owns Corked 101, a wine bar with charcuterie boards and flatbreads in Burlington.They also own Corked Wine and Barrel, a wine and whiskey bar with food offerings in Fort Madison. Wines from Corked 101 will be available at V.O.’s. Tony VanOrder shared that the restaurant’s motto is “always forward.”“Learning to push forward and not look back,” Tony said, was an important lesson.What’s in a name? At V.O.’s, you can count on a friendly and relaxed dining experience.&nbsp;

Letters Spell Big Changes for Local Restaurant

&nbsp;Note: This story has been updated with the following photo:

Work began on Monday to cut away curbing near the railroad crossing in the 800 block of Jefferson Street. The work is being completed in order to expedite the opening of the railroad crossing. BNSF Railway closed the crossing citing safety concerns.&nbsp;Photo/Jeff Abell

The railroad crossing at the 800 block of Jefferson Street could reopen within a month if the weather stays mild.

Nick MacGregor, assistant city manager for public works, said the plan is to cut back the curb at the crossing.&nbsp;

Once the work is done, the crossing will be back to its former configuration — before it was narrowed by TIGER grant-funded construction on Jefferson Street. That will allow the city to reopen the crossing without disrupting the quiet zone, which bars passing trains from blowing their horns.

If the city were to open the crossing now, before the work is done, the quiet zone would end.

MacGregor said BNSF contacted him just before Christmas, offering to put in temporary crossing arm pole bases instead of narrowing the crossing. That temporary solution would have taken three months or longer, however, and the crossing has been closed since June 2022.

MacGregor and Burlington Mayor Jon Billups have been adamant about getting the crossing reopened since it was closed six months ago. The closure has been a continuing source of contention between BNSF and the city.

The move to close the crossing in June came as an unpleasant shock to MacGregor and the city.&nbsp;

BNSF said the crossing “no longer conformed to proper safety standards due to the changes with the curb,” but never mentioned there would be a problem while participating in two years of design meetings with city officials before that.

“We started design coordination with them back in January of 2020,” MacGregor said.

Leo Foley, Project Engineer at Veenstra and Kimm — which is overseeing the TIGER grant redevelopment of downtown Burlington — was just as shocked. He expressed his frustrations with BNSF Railway during a city council meeting in September.

“We had our plans approved by the railroad as well as the DOT (Department of Transportation)&nbsp; railroad department, and everything was looking good,” Foley said. “Now they’re saying they would like to replace these with brand new signals. We’re saying no, that wasn’t part of our project, it shouldn’t be a city cost. We’re going back and forth.”

BNSF wanted the city to pay for new signal lights before reopening the crossing. The city said the railroad should pay, noting that BNSF approved the construction around the railroad tracks without mention of new signals.

Thanks to the US Federal Highway Administration and Federal Rail Administration, neither side has to pony up for the cost of new signalization.

In October, the Burlington city council approved a $500,000 amendment to the TIGER grant during a special city council meeting Monday night, Oct. 10. The grant, which came from the highway and rail administration, is to be used to improve and adjust the closed railroad crossing at the 800 block of Jefferson Street. Those permanent changes, which are not related to the short-term solution BNSF offered before Christmas, could have taken up to 18 months. The crossing would have stayed closed the entire time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1673998103219.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Note: This story has been updated with the following photo: Work began on Monday to cut away curbing near the railroad crossing in the 800 block of Jefferson Street. The work is being completed in order to expedite the opening of the railroad crossing. BNSF Railway closed the crossing citing safety concerns.&nbsp;Photo/Jeff AbellBy William SmithThe railroad crossing at the 800 block of Jefferson Street could reopen within a month if the weather stays mild.Nick MacGregor, assistant city manager for public works, said the plan is to cut back the curb at the crossing.&nbsp;Once the work is done, the crossing will be back to its former configuration — before it was narrowed by TIGER grant-funded construction on Jefferson Street. That will allow the city to reopen the crossing without disrupting the quiet zone, which bars passing trains from blowing their horns.If the city were to open the crossing now, before the work is done, the quiet zone would end.MacGregor said BNSF contacted him just before Christmas, offering to put in temporary crossing arm pole bases instead of narrowing the crossing. That temporary solution would have taken three months or longer, however, and the crossing has been closed since June 2022.MacGregor and Burlington Mayor Jon Billups have been adamant about getting the crossing reopened since it was closed six months ago. The closure has been a continuing source of contention between BNSF and the city.Unexpected obstacleThe move to close the crossing in June came as an unpleasant shock to MacGregor and the city.&nbsp;BNSF said the crossing “no longer conformed to proper safety standards due to the changes with the curb,” but never mentioned there would be a problem while participating in two years of design meetings with city officials before that.“We started design coordination with them back in January of 2020,” MacGregor said.Leo Foley, Project Engineer at Veenstra and Kimm — which is overseeing the TIGER grant redevelopment of downtown Burlington — was just as shocked. He expressed his frustrations with BNSF Railway during a city council meeting in September.“We had our plans approved by the railroad as well as the DOT (Department of Transportation)&nbsp; railroad department, and everything was looking good,” Foley said. “Now they’re saying they would like to replace these with brand new signals. We’re saying no, that wasn’t part of our project, it shouldn’t be a city cost. We’re going back and forth.”BNSF wanted the city to pay for new signal lights before reopening the crossing. The city said the railroad should pay, noting that BNSF approved the construction around the railroad tracks without mention of new signals.Finding the moneyThanks to the US Federal Highway Administration and Federal Rail Administration, neither side has to pony up for the cost of new signalization.In October, the Burlington city council approved a $500,000 amendment to the TIGER grant during a special city council meeting Monday night, Oct. 10. The grant, which came from the highway and rail administration, is to be used to improve and adjust the closed railroad crossing at the 800 block of Jefferson Street. Those permanent changes, which are not related to the short-term solution BNSF offered before Christmas, could have taken up to 18 months. The crossing would have stayed closed the entire time.

Fair Weather Key To Opening Jefferson Street Crossing Within Four Weeks

The city of Burlington is hosting a food drive inspired by a seventh-grader’s essay and needs the public’s help.

City council member Annie Wilson spoke about the food drive at the end of the city council work session, noting that all the donations would be distributed to local food pantries.

“It’s an important food drive. We need to make sure we bring in a lot of goods, said Mayor Jon Billups at the Jan. 9&nbsp; meeting.

The food drive coincides with an essay written by Burlington seventh-grader Ava Fruehling, who just won the annual “If I Were Mayor” contest. Fruehling’s essay focused on food scarcity and how it affects families and students.

The Iowa League of Cities hosts the “If I Were Mayor” essay contest, which challenges seventh-grade students to write a one-page essay about what they would do if they were the mayor.&nbsp;

The city of Burlington partners with local schools annually, and the winning essay will be moving on to the state level to represent local youth and the city of Burlington.&nbsp;

The essays are judged based on creativity, clarity, sincerity of thought, and proper use of grammar.

Fruehling will also be awarded a $100 cash prize from Burlington Rotary Club. Fruehling will read her essay in person at the Feb. 6 city council meeting, and will also be recognized by the council during the meeting.

Last year’s winner was Edward Stone Middle School student Dresden Fishback.&nbsp;

“If I were mayor I would strive to lower unemployment rates by creating programs to help unemployed people find jobs and create more job opportunities. Unemployment rates are a big issue, unemployment lowers the productivity and liveliness of our communities, as well as negatively impacting our economy by causing inflation and slowing the growth of businesses, and our economy as a whole.”

The food drive inspired by Fruehling’s essay started Monday, Jan. 9, and will continue through Feb. 6. Food items can be brought to city hall at 400 Washington St. during business hours.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1673834378138.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Beacon StaffThe city of Burlington is hosting a food drive inspired by a seventh-grader’s essay and needs the public’s help.City council member Annie Wilson spoke about the food drive at the end of the city council work session, noting that all the donations would be distributed to local food pantries.“It’s an important food drive. We need to make sure we bring in a lot of goods, said Mayor Jon Billups at the Jan. 9&nbsp; meeting.The food drive coincides with an essay written by Burlington seventh-grader Ava Fruehling, who just won the annual “If I Were Mayor” contest. Fruehling’s essay focused on food scarcity and how it affects families and students.The Iowa League of Cities hosts the “If I Were Mayor” essay contest, which challenges seventh-grade students to write a one-page essay about what they would do if they were the mayor.&nbsp;The city of Burlington partners with local schools annually, and the winning essay will be moving on to the state level to represent local youth and the city of Burlington.&nbsp;The essays are judged based on creativity, clarity, sincerity of thought, and proper use of grammar.Fruehling will also be awarded a $100 cash prize from Burlington Rotary Club. Fruehling will read her essay in person at the Feb. 6 city council meeting, and will also be recognized by the council during the meeting.Last year’s winner was Edward Stone Middle School student Dresden Fishback.&nbsp;Her essay read, in part:“If I were mayor I would strive to lower unemployment rates by creating programs to help unemployed people find jobs and create more job opportunities. Unemployment rates are a big issue, unemployment lowers the productivity and liveliness of our communities, as well as negatively impacting our economy by causing inflation and slowing the growth of businesses, and our economy as a whole.”The food drive inspired by Fruehling’s essay started Monday, Jan. 9, and will continue through Feb. 6. Food items can be brought to city hall at 400 Washington St. during business hours.

Council’s decision Spurred by 7th-Grade essay contest

By William Smith Community Editor

Over the years, the members of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Burlington have weathered their share of storms together.

A fire tore through the original church building in 1939, rendering the congregants without a home of their own for two years.

The death of popular pastor Chuck Evans, who ministered at the church in the 1980s, brought the congregation closer together.

And in 2019, an unexplained explosion permanently put the building out of commission. Aside from some special church services held in the unheated remains, parishioners have been worshiping with their brethren at Faith Lutheran Church on Sunnyside Avenue.

On the evening of Tuesday, Jan. 10, the parishioners of Trinity paid their final respects to their former house of worship during a decommissioning service. Bishop Amy Current of the Southeastern Iowa Synod was also on hand to provide support and guidance.

Inside the fellowship hall, where the service began, there was no heat or electricity. 

Instead, attendees held candles to counter the darkness. Damage to the sanctuary itself made worshiping there impossible.

Tears were shed, words of encouragement were shared, and goodbyes were offered.

“For this building that has sheltered Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church for 138 years, the memory of this place will continue to inspire devotion to the God who makes all things possible. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer,” said the Rev. Ryan Cosgrove, pastor of Faith and Trinity churches.

Cosgrove mentioned the life events hosted by the church — baptisms, confirmations, marriages, funerals — the cycle of celebration and mourning that defines a long-standing church.

Bob Maschmann, a 35-year parishioner at Trinity Lutheran, said he will miss the building.

“Our three daughters were all baptized there and went to Sunday school and married there, so it’s kind of sentimental,” he said.

But Maschmann is far more concerned with the people in the building rather than the building itself. Grief and denial have passed, leaving only the determination to carry on.

“Initially, I thought, ‘Oh well, we’ll just fix whatever was destroyed,’” Maschmann said. “But it (the building) was so perfectly blown out. So it was kind of traumatic to come to the conclusion of what we’re doing.”

To this day, no one knows why part of the church exploded on the morning of Saturday, March 16, 2019.

“They (police and fire departments) couldn’t determine a cause; there was too much damage,” Cosgrove said.

It was 10:37 a.m. on that Saturday, and Cosgrove’s wife, Amanda, sent him a text: “Did you feel/hear that?!?!” followed by, “Are you ok?!”

Cosgrove hadn’t heard the explosion but immediately rushed over to the church on Central Avenue. It was obvious the office windows had been blown out, and a police car was sitting in front of the adjacent parsonage by the time he arrived.

“After exiting my car, I could smell gas,” Cosgrove said.

While Cosgrove spoke with the police, Mike Whitson and Doug Streeter boarded up the windows, barricaded the basement steps, and braced the sagging office ceiling.

Cosgrove was able to lead a service later that night at Faith Lutheran Church on Sunnyside Avenue. He was already serving as the pastor at both churches, and there were talks of merging even before the explosion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1673834606794.jpeg" alt="Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church which was damaged by an explosion in March of 2019 is seen prior to a special service of thanksgiving and decommissioning on Tuesday, January 10, 2023. (John Lovretta/for The Burlington Beacon)" />
 <figcaption>Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church which was damaged by an explosion in March of 2019 is seen prior to a special service of thanksgiving and decommissioning on Tuesday, January 10, 2023. (John Lovretta/for The Burlington Beacon)</figcaption>
 </figure>By William Smith Community EditorOver the years, the members of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Burlington have weathered their share of storms together.A fire tore through the original church building in 1939, rendering the congregants without a home of their own for two years.The death of popular pastor Chuck Evans, who ministered at the church in the 1980s, brought the congregation closer together.And in 2019, an unexplained explosion permanently put the building out of commission. Aside from some special church services held in the unheated remains, parishioners have been worshiping with their brethren at Faith Lutheran Church on Sunnyside Avenue.On the evening of Tuesday, Jan. 10, the parishioners of Trinity paid their final respects to their former house of worship during a decommissioning service. Bishop Amy Current of the Southeastern Iowa Synod was also on hand to provide support and guidance.Inside the fellowship hall, where the service began, there was no heat or electricity. Instead, attendees held candles to counter the darkness. Damage to the sanctuary itself made worshiping there impossible.Tears were shed, words of encouragement were shared, and goodbyes were offered.“For this building that has sheltered Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church for 138 years, the memory of this place will continue to inspire devotion to the God who makes all things possible. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer,” said the Rev. Ryan Cosgrove, pastor of Faith and Trinity churches.Cosgrove mentioned the life events hosted by the church — baptisms, confirmations, marriages, funerals — the cycle of celebration and mourning that defines a long-standing church.Bob Maschmann, a 35-year parishioner at Trinity Lutheran, said he will miss the building.“Our three daughters were all baptized there and went to Sunday school and married there, so it’s kind of sentimental,” he said.But Maschmann is far more concerned with the people in the building rather than the building itself. Grief and denial have passed, leaving only the determination to carry on.“Initially, I thought, ‘Oh well, we’ll just fix whatever was destroyed,’” Maschmann said. “But it (the building) was so perfectly blown out. So it was kind of traumatic to come to the conclusion of what we’re doing.”<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1673833861368.jpeg" alt="Arne and Jena Hausknecht during a special service of thanksgiving and decommissioning for Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church (John Lovretta/for The Burlington Beacon)" />
 <figcaption>Arne and Jena Hausknecht during a special service of thanksgiving and decommissioning for Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church (John Lovretta/for The Burlington Beacon)</figcaption>
 </figure>It couldn’t be savedTo this day, no one knows why part of the church exploded on the morning of Saturday, March 16, 2019.“They (police and fire departments) couldn’t determine a cause; there was too much damage,” Cosgrove said.It was 10:37 a.m. on that Saturday, and Cosgrove’s wife, Amanda, sent him a text: “Did you feel/hear that?!?!” followed by, “Are you ok?!”Cosgrove hadn’t heard the explosion but immediately rushed over to the church on Central Avenue. It was obvious the office windows had been blown out, and a police car was sitting in front of the adjacent parsonage by the time he arrived.“After exiting my car, I could smell gas,” Cosgrove said.While Cosgrove spoke with the police, Mike Whitson and Doug Streeter boarded up the windows, barricaded the basement steps, and braced the sagging office ceiling.Cosgrove was able to lead a service later that night at Faith Lutheran Church on Sunnyside Avenue. He was already serving as the pastor at both churches, and there were talks of merging even before the explosion.“What will happen is it will be Trinity’s identity that Faith will merge into, but we can eventually change our name,” Cosgrove said.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1673833879186.jpeg" alt="Rev. Ryan Cosgrove on Tuesday, Jan. 10, during a special service of thanksgiving and decommissioning for Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. (John Lovretta/for The Burlington Beacon)" />
 <figcaption>Rev. Ryan Cosgrove on Tuesday, Jan. 10, during a special service of thanksgiving and decommissioning for Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. (John Lovretta/for The Burlington Beacon)</figcaption>
 </figure>A long historyKay Weiss loves Trinity Lutheran Church. But she loves the people even more.Weiss joined the church in 1987 – the same year she moved to Burlington. She had just been hired as the director of the Burlington Public Library and broke her arm after slipping on ice during her first day at work.Her new family at Trinity Lutheran Church reached out to her immediately.“They were just very welcoming,” she said.Weiss has worshiped at several churches over the years and has always held a leadership role. She followed suit at Trinity, helping to compile the church’s history.“Trinity Lutheran is a big, formal kind of sanctuary,” she said.Surprisingly, the imposing stone landmark is not as old as many might believe. The Trinity Lutheran congregation was founded in 1884 as a mission church, but they needed a building. On May 2, 1884, the general synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church purchased the Olivet Christian Church at 115. S. Central Ave., back when it was known as Boundary Street.The first pastor’s wife wrote of her experience of arriving in Burlington, decades behind other established churches in town.“Never shall I forget the utter sense of loneliness we experienced when the railroad train set us down in the city of Burlington, Iowa, at midnight, to plant a mission in that strange city, where all the other denominations had from 30 to 50 years the start of us. No church, no people, no home!” she wrote.That original church burned down on Dec. 31, 1939, forcing the congregation to worship at Bethany Lutheran Church for a couple of years. A new church building, much larger than the original, was commissioned, built, and erected by June of 1941. The church bell survived the fire and was incorporated into the new church.Though the congregation found themselves without a building again after the 2019 explosion, many of the church artifacts have been moved to Faith Lutheran Church — including a large, stained glass window that depicts Jesus with his arms extended in a gesture of welcome.<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1673833772950.jpeg" alt="Candles were the primary source of light during a special service of thanksgiving and decommissioning for Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church on Tuesday, January 10. (John Lovretta/for The Burlington Beacon) " />
 <figcaption>Candles were the primary source of light during a special service of thanksgiving and decommissioning for Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church on Tuesday, January 10. (John Lovretta/for The Burlington Beacon) </figcaption>
 </figure>New church familyDoris Erlewine and the members of Faith Lutheran Church have made it a point to open their hearts to the congregation from Trinity Lutheran Church.Erlewine has been a member of Faith Lutheran since 1978 and has been delighted to welcome new members into her church family.“I think the people from Trinity are more comfortable coming in now that some of the things from their old church are here. I think it’s a good thing,” she said. “I hate to see the church go down there because I think there’s a need for a church in that part of town.”For now, though, there is no distinction between the people of Trinity and Faith Lutheran. They are one. The Trinity Lutheran building will be demolished sometime later this winter, and Faith Lutheran will be renamed in the future to represent the shared identity of the congregation.Bishop Amy Current ended the final service at Trinity with the following words of thanksgiving and hope:“With thanks to God for the work accomplished in this place, I declare this building to be vacated for the purposes of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. May the witness of the people who ministered here in the name of Jesus Christ continue to live on as they leave these walls and begin life in a new place.”<figure>
 <img src="https://d2eftiauov6o73.cloudfront.net/public/2023/1/1673833803174.jpeg" alt="Bishop Amy Current of the Southeast Iowa Synod presided during a special service of thanksgiving and decommissioning for Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. (John Lovretta/for The Burlington Beacon)" />
 <figcaption>Bishop Amy Current of the Southeast Iowa Synod presided during a special service of thanksgiving and decommissioning for Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. (John Lovretta/for The Burlington Beacon)</figcaption>
 </figure>