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It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.

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Home Care In Alburnett, IA

Home Care Alburnett, IA

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Alburnett Historical Society in Alburnett, IA gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Alburnett, IA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

In-Home Care Alburnett, IA

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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Elderly Care for Coreline I.
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“Tracey Gray helped me in the biggest way today! She saved my day and I”

Tracey Gray helped me in the biggest way today! She saved my day and I am so thankful for her choice to help me! Thank you! #CertPrint #AlwaysBestCare
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Elderly Care for James T.
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“Always best care provided excellent caregivers to us. I am really happy with the care”

Always best care provided excellent caregivers to us. I am really happy with the care and support they provided to my father. Highly recommended to all!
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In-home Care for Michael H.
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“On behalf of my family, I would like to thank Always Best care for all”

On behalf of my family, I would like to thank Always Best care for all the support your caregivers have provided to my mother. She was very pleased with the care she received. I confidently recommend Always Best Care to all.
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Senior Care for Melanie S.
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“Always Best Care in Cedar Valley IA realy helps me a lot. They have Reliable”

Always Best Care in Cedar Valley IA realy helps me a lot. They have Reliable Caregivers who helped me to take care of my loved one for several years. They are highly trained and managed well the daily routines and activities like bathing and dressing. Caregivers of always best care is dependable and passionate to their work. I am satisfied and so glad that I chose their service. Highly recommend whoever needs their caregiving service!
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TESTIMONIALS

“Tracey Gray helped me in the biggest way today! She saved my day and I am so thankful for her choice to help me! Thank you! #CertPrint #AlwaysBestCare”

Coreline I.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care provided excellent caregivers to us. I am really happy with the care and support they provided to my father. Highly recommended to all!”

James T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“On behalf of my family, I would like to thank Always Best care for all the support your caregivers have provided to my mother. She was very pleased with the care she received. I confidently recommend Always Best Care to all.”

Michael H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care in Cedar Valley IA realy helps me a lot. They have Reliable Caregivers who helped me to take care of my loved one for several years. They are highly trained and managed well the daily routines and activities like bathing and dressing. Caregivers of always best care is dependable and passionate to their work. I am satisfied and so glad that I chose their service. Highly recommend whoever needs their caregiving service!”

Melanie S.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Alburnett, IA?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

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Senior Care Alburnett, IA

Types of Elderly Care in Alburnett, IA

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming
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Respite Care Alburnett, IA
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
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Caregivers Alburnett, IA
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Noelridge Park in Alburnett, IA with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
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Home Care Alburnett, IA
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Fuller's Pub & Grub Inc. or visit The Granger House Victorian Museum, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

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In-Home Care Alburnett, IA

Benefits of Home Care in Alburnett, IA

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Alburnett, IA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

Elderly Care Alburnett, IA

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your IA's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
Senior Care Alburnett, IA

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Alburnett, IA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.

Respite Care Alburnett, IA

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
Caregivers Alburnett, IA

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Alburnett Senior Housing
  • Terrace Glen Village
  • Garnett Place
  • CountryHouse
  • Emery Place
  • Grand Living At Indian Creek
Home Care Alburnett, IA

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

In-Home Care Alburnett, IA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Alburnett, IA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

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Elderly Care Alburnett, IA

Latest News in Alburnett, IA

Family fuels Caves’ competitive fire

Caves is one of four siblings and can make anything a competitionThe Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.ALBURNETT – Laken Caves honed his competitive streak in a family that could turn the simplest activity into a contest.He is one of four siblings who vie for bragging rights. Even parents get into the mix. Who is the fastest? Biggest? Strongest? Toughest? Anything and everything.“We can make really anything a competition,” Caves said. &ldqu...

Caves is one of four siblings and can make anything a competition

The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.

ALBURNETT – Laken Caves honed his competitive streak in a family that could turn the simplest activity into a contest.

He is one of four siblings who vie for bragging rights. Even parents get into the mix. Who is the fastest? Biggest? Strongest? Toughest? Anything and everything.

“We can make really anything a competition,” Caves said. “Who can eat the most food is a competition between me and my brother. It's fun.”

Caves has transferred that mentality to the football field, serving as a playmaker and leader for No. 8 Alburnett. The junior running back is one of Class 2A’s most productive running backs, helping the Pirates to the state quarterfinal Friday night at No. 3 Osage.

“I believe that coming from the competitive family has really shaped him into an outstanding competitor and has given him a great knowledge of how to compete,” Alburnett Coach Nick Wooldrik said. “He really studies the game and works to be the best at everything he does. His parents, brothers, and sister are all great athletes and he is one of the best I’ve been around.”

Caves is an all-around athlete for the Pirates. He plays basketball, track and baseball, earning third-team all-state honors by the Iowa High School Baseball Coaches Association as a sophomore. Sports, and success, came naturally to him.

“That's kind of been a theme in our family,” Caves said. “We grow up living in a competitive world, so when the first time we step on that field it’s a different ballgame.”

The bar was set high for Caves, who older brother, Hunter, and older sister, Savannah, were all-state athletes for the Pirates. He has a younger brother, Daxle, following him. Their dad, Josh, also played football for the Pirates.

“I think it shapes and molds me because I always wanted to be bigger and better than my older brother,” Caves said. “Then, my dad would be like I could do that back in high school. He would show us his tapes. We'd see him running over people and whatever. So, we are like, well, I'll show you something. Just trying to get better than him, too.”

Caves’ passion for football sprouted from watching his dad’s videos, huddling around the television with his brothers. He loved the sport from the start.

“That kind of just started off with a love for me, watching him going out there and do it,” Caves said. “Seeing how he reacted to things and I just kind of wanted to see him react to me.”

His family and Alburnett fans have had plenty to react to, especially this season. Caves leads 2A with 2,707 all-purpose yards. He also ranks second in rushing yards (1,774) and third in rushing touchdowns (22). He averages 8.6 yards per carry, toting it 207 times this season – both rank fourth in 2A.

Caves is Alburnett’s top receiver with 26 catches and 359 yards. He also averages 32.1 yards per kick return, taking one 92 yards for a score against 1A No. 3 Iowa City Regina, and averages 17 yards per punt return.

“Laken can do everything on the football field,” Wooldrik said. “He is great with the ball in his hands. He could be an all-state receiver if we played him there more. He is also a great defensive player. He’s a great tackler, can cover the best receiver and has a knack for finding the ball at safety.”

In the postseason opener against Crestwood, he scored TD runs of 36 and 34 yards for a 13-6 victory. Caves rushed for 267 yards and four TDs in the second-round win over Waukon. He added 33 receiving yards and was second on the Pirates with six tackles.

Running back is still his most coveted role.

“I love running the ball,” said Caves, who praised his offensive line. “My favorite thing is running in between the tackles, finding open holes. Occasionally making a guy miss, maybe hitting a guy, but I just love the feeling of just running inside and then booking it out into open space.”

The 5-foot-11, 180-pounder has worked tirelessly in the offseason, lifting, fine-tuning footwork and improving his technique. He noted that he uses a rope to tie a tire around his waist, using it for resistance to run sprints trying to get an advantage on opponents.

“His intangibles that stand out to me is first his work ethic,” Wooldrik said. “He will be in the weight room every day, maintaining his body. He has elite speed and quickness.

“And he is one of the toughest kids I’ve been around. He plays through more injuries than anyone would know. He never wants to miss a rep in practice and we have to tell him to go home from the practice field. He’s always looking to get better.”

Natural instincts take over during games, subscribing to advice from Alburnett assistant Clayton Rush.

“He mentioned this one time and it's kind of just stuck with me,” Caves said. “He said when in doubt be athletic. When I get the ball, I’m just trying to be athletic, make the first guy miss, read the blocks and, at the end of the day, put the ball in the end zone.”

Alburnett is making its second quarterfinal appearance and first since 2011. The Pirates are still in search for their first semifinal berth and trip to the UNI-Dome. Caves said the Pirates have embraced the chance to make school history.

“We have a motto at Alburnett,” Caves said. “It's E.A.T. - effort, attitude, and toughness. I think that we bring effort, attitude, and toughness to every game. We show that out on the field.

“Obviously, just getting to the Dome is all of our goals. We're excited to get there, hopefully.”

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Alburnett downs Crestwood in hard-fought Class 2A high school football postseason battle

Alburnett’s Laken Caves scored 2 touchdowns in 13-6 victoryThe Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.ALBURNETTT – Heart. Guts. Grit.Alburnett has used those ingredients for a successful recipe in hard-fought games. Pirates Coach Nick Wooldrik said it’s been a hallmark of this year’s players.“These guys have worked their butts off all summer, all season,” Wooldrik said. “We kept talking about how we’re built to win ...

Alburnett’s Laken Caves scored 2 touchdowns in 13-6 victory

The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.

ALBURNETTT – Heart. Guts. Grit.

Alburnett has used those ingredients for a successful recipe in hard-fought games. Pirates Coach Nick Wooldrik said it’s been a hallmark of this year’s players.

“These guys have worked their butts off all summer, all season,” Wooldrik said. “We kept talking about how we’re built to win these close games. We’re not always flashy. … They know if they keep it close, we have a good chance to win in the end.”

All the intangibles were on display in eighth-ranked Alburnett’s postseason opener against Crestwood Friday night at Jim Carver Field at Martin Sports Complex. Laken Caves scored two third-quarter touchdown runs and the Pirates defense forced four turnovers in a 13-6 victory over the Cadets in a Class 2A first-round high school football playoff game.

“It took a lot of physicality and a lot of effort,” Caves said. “They came out and hit us well but we hit them back.”

The game would classify as an old-fashion slobber knocker thanks to the first-half defensive standoff and scoreless fourth. Despite running just 21 offensive plays in the first half and managing just two first downs, the Pirates were still confident in their ability to produce points with some adjustments.

“We were just missing a few blocks in the first half,” Wooldrik said. “They were doing some things, defensively, we weren’t ready for. We knew we could capitalize on things once we got to halftime. We drew up some new stuff.”

Alburnett ended the scoring drought on its second possession of the third. The Pirates covered 80 yards on three plays. The initial spark came on a 43-yard screen pass from Brody Kaestner to Caves, setting up his 36-yard TD run for a 7-0 lead.

“(Alburnett lineman Hunter) Sauer made a heck of a play and creamed someone,” Caves said. “I saw that, read my blocks and got in the end zone.”

Crestwood answered with its lone scoring drive of the game. Cadets quarterback Alex Loden slipped in for a 1-yard TD but the extra point was missed, making it 7-6 in favor of Alburnett with 4:38 left in the third.

The Pirates extended the lead back to seven on the next series. Caves rushed for a 34-yard score on fourth-and-3, bursting into the second level off left tackle.

“There was a lot of game left,” said Caves, who finished with 189 offensive yards including 139 rushing on 24 carries. “We tried to keep up the tempo. Just keep playing.”

Caves, who hadn’t played much defense since an early-season ankle injury, added two interceptions. He joined Tayten Coufal, who had a pick to thwart Crestwood’s first drive of the game.

“He’s just a good athlete,” Wooldrik said of Caves. “The other guys complement him well. It’s not just Laken. We get pressure on the quarterback. It’s a good team win for us.”

The Cadets held a 35-21 edge in plays and a 117-43 advantage in offensive yards, rushing for 111 before halftime. Loden and Jose Lievano formed a strong 1-2 punch. Loden ran for 123 yards and Lievano added 84, but Crestwood only reached the red zone once.

“We’ve done that all year,” Wooldrik said. “We’ll bend a little bit. We’ll give up some yards here or there but when push comes to shove, we seem to step up and make a big stop.”

Alburnett improved to 7-2 overall, advancing to next week’s round of 16. Crestwood closed the season at 4-5.

ALBURNETT 13

CRESTWOOD 6

AT ALBURNETT

CRE ALB

First Downs 16 9

Rushes-yards 47-205 30-132

Passing yards 52 123

Comp-att-int 2-15-3 9-16-0

Total yards 257 255

Fumbles-lost 2-1 2-1

Punts-avg. 3-44.3 6-32.2

Penalties-yards 6-40 5-56

Crestwood 0 0 6 0 -- 6

Alburnett 0 0 13 0 -- 13

ALB – Laken Caves 36 run (Reis Moore kick)

CRE – Alex Loden 1 run (kick failed)

ALB – Caves 34 run (kick failed)

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

RUSHING – Crestwood: Loden 26-123, Jose Lievano 18-84, Ethan Bergan 2-2, Finnegan Donlan 1-(minus 4). Alburnett: Caves 24-139, Owen Henriksen 2-3, Cooper Franklin 1-3, Team 1-(minus 4).

PASSING – Crestwood: Loden 2-15-3-52. Alburnett: Brody Kaestner 9-16-0-123.

RECEIVING – Crestwood: Finnegan 2-52. Alburnett: Cash Varner 4-63, Caves 2-50, Henriksen 2-11, Franklin 1-(minus 1).

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Linn County Sheriff’s Office investigating bomb threat in Alburnett School District

The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.The Linn County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a bomb threat that was reported to the Alburnett School District Friday, according to a news release from the sheriff’s office.The release states the threat was reported in a voicemail message left by a computer-generated voice and its origin is unknown.A Facebook post from the school district, announcing that students would be dismissed at 10:45 a.m. Friday, states ...

The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a bomb threat that was reported to the Alburnett School District Friday, according to a news release from the sheriff’s office.

The release states the threat was reported in a voicemail message left by a computer-generated voice and its origin is unknown.

A Facebook post from the school district, announcing that students would be dismissed at 10:45 a.m. Friday, states the district learned of the threat through an email and immediately notified law enforcement.

“Nothing has been noted out of place. A K-9 unit was brought in to check areas of the main building. Building administration and several staff members did a visual sweep of the Alburnett buildings and properties. Law enforcement assured us that we were fine to proceed as normal operating school procedures but out of precaution we are dismissing at 10:45 this morning,” the post reads. “Again, at Alburnett CSD we have our students and staff safety at the highest priority. Sorry for this inconvenience.”

Similar threats were made in other areas of the state Friday, and the sheriff’s office is working with other agencies to investigate and determine if the calls are related, the sheriff’s office release states.

The Algona Community School District in northern Iowa also posted on Facebook about receiving a bomb threat after announcing that school would be canceled Friday.

“We have learned through working with state and federal authorities that this is a threat that has been made in other places throughout the nation,” the post reads.

The Iowa State Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting with the investigation.

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Alburnett earns home game to open high school football postseason

The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.Alburnett football has aspired to finish its season in the UNI-Dome.The Pirates will start that trek at home. They will open the Class 2A playoffs in the friendly confines of Jim Carver Field at Martin Sports Complex for the first time in three seasons.“This was a goal all season to host a first-round game,” Pirates Coach Nick Wooldrik said. “The kids have worked hard all season and that worked paid off. We&rs...

The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.

Alburnett football has aspired to finish its season in the UNI-Dome.

The Pirates will start that trek at home. They will open the Class 2A playoffs in the friendly confines of Jim Carver Field at Martin Sports Complex for the first time in three seasons.

“This was a goal all season to host a first-round game,” Pirates Coach Nick Wooldrik said. “The kids have worked hard all season and that worked paid off. We’re excited to bring a game to Alburnett this week.”

Iowa High School Athletic Association released first-round postseason pairings for 2A, 1A, A and 8-Player divisions Saturday morning. The fields for 5A through 3A will be determined after Week 9 play.

Alburnett closed the regular season with a 33-14 victory over Anamosa Friday night, finishing 6-2 overall and runner-up in 2A District 5. The Pirates will face Crestwood (4-4) next Friday.

“We really haven’t seen much on Crestwood but it’s always fun to prepare for a team that you don’t know much about,” Wooldrik said. “They have had a good tradition of football so we’re going to have to be ready for a battle.”

The Pirates thrive on physical and tough play. They amassed 283 rushing yards against the Blue Raiders, including 268 and two touchdowns from sophomore running back Laken Caves. He added 16 yards and a score receiving.

Caves has accounted for 1,374 of Alburnett’s 1,735 yards on the ground.

“Our run game has really been our bread and butter this year,” Wooldrik said. “We have a great running back and offensive line. We lean on them when we need a play.”

Alburnett is joined in the playoffs by district foes West Branch (6-2), Bellevue (7-1) and Anamosa (3-5). The Pirates tied with West Branch and Bellevue atop the district with the Bears winning the tiebreaker after Friday’s 43-20 victory over the Comets. West Branch will host Denver (4-4), while Bellevue and Anamosa hit the road. The Comets head to Waukon (5-3), while the Blue Raiders play at Roland-Story (6-2).

The competitive district has the Pirates tested and ready for the playoffs.

“We’ve played close games all year against some really good teams,” Wooldrik said. “I believe that has prepared us for every situation we will see. We will have to adjust on the fly at times but we are a veteran group and can adapt.”

In Class A, North Linn closed the regular season with a 7-1 mark and was runner-up in District 4. The Lynx will host Columbus Community (3-5) at Troy Mills. North Linn beat Columbus at home, 54-7, on Sept. 19.

“We’ll take a look at what worked well last time we played and form the game plan around that,” North Linn Coach Jared Collum said. “This late in the season there’s not a whole lot of new install. Obviously, both teams are familiar with each other.”

The Lynx won their first seven games of the season but lost to Wapsie Valley, 42-0, Friday night in a battle of ranked teams. They will focus on fixing mistakes and execute better in the postseason.

“Despite the loss last night, we still have a pretty good resume,” Collum said. “We’ve played good football the majority of the season.”

Iowa City Regina, Dyersville Beckman, Cascade and Sigourney-Keota will each host a first-round game in 1A. The Regals (8-0) capped a perfect regular season with a 42-0 win over Louisa-Muscatine. They host Northeast (3-5).

Beckman (7-1) will host Jesup (2-6). Union Community heads to Cascade for a matchup of 6-2 teams. Sigourney-Keota (4-4) welcomes Truro I-35 (5-3).

Springville started the 8-Player season with four straight losses. The Orioles have turned their fortune around, winning four in a row and earning a playoff berth. Springville (4-4) will travel to Turkey Valley (5-3) for the first round.

Iowa Valley and Edgewood-Colesburg were unblemished through Week 8 and both host postseason openers. Iowa Valley (8-0) hosts wildcard Moravia (5-3), while Ed-Co (8-0) welcomes WACO (3-5). Montezuma (6-2) will start the playoffs at home against East Union (6-2).

LINN-MAR WINS 4TH STRAIGHT

Linn-Mar started the season 0-4 but has strung together four straight victories, including a marquee win this season. The Lions scored all their points in the second half and knocked off 5A Cedar Falls, 21-13, Friday night at Linn-Mar Stadium.

"Our guys love each other and whatever happens, we want to stay together and enjoy this experience as long as we possibly can,” First-year Linn-Mar Coach Duane Orr told The Gazette after the win. “I promise, as long as they keep letting us play, you are going to see an effort like you saw tonight. That is just the way these kids are wired, the way they are coached. I just love coaching this team.”

Linn-Mar trailed 10-0 at halftime. Quarterback Derek Roling hit Chase Bradley for a 49-yard scoring strike in the third and added a 1-yard QB sneak in the fourth, giving the Lions a lead they didn’t surrender.

"He's such a gutsy and poised kid,” Orr said of Roling. “I can't tell you how incredible it is for a sophomore to be thrown in like he has. His first start was (in Week 3) against Liberty. Since his very first game, he has maintained poise. He's been a terrific manager of our offense and he very rarely makes a mistake.

“He does great things with his legs and the throwing game is really coming. He's finding guys in key places, getting the ball to receivers in space and letting them make plays.”

The Lions (4-4) remain in the postseason hunt with a Week 9 game at No. 7 Iowa City West, who lost to Prairie, 45-31, at John Wall Field. In addition to Linn-Mar and Prairie, Waukee pulled off an upset in 5A, blocking a late field goal and handing No. 1 Waukee Northwest its first loss, 31-28.

The focus isn’t on a playoff berth but on the consistent progress that has fueled the strong turnaround this season.

"I'm being completely honest, the entire emphasis all year long, and you can ask any of the guys, has been getting better each week,” Orr said. “We got to get better next week. They have bought into that and I just haven't let them think about anything other than that. I've got the right coaches around me to help reinforce that every day in practice.”

WEST DELAWARE, CLEAR LAKE ON COLLISION COURSE

The winner-take-all battle is set when No. 4 West Delaware plays at No. 1 Clear Lake for the 3A District 2 title in Week 9. The Hawks walloped Benton Community, 42-20, Friday. The Lions blanked Charles City, 63-0. Both teams are 8-0 and 4-0 in the district.

UNION COMMUNITY EARNS 6TH VICTORY

Union Community closed the regular season with a 36-12 victory over Sumner-Fredericksburg Friday night at home. The Knights improved to 6-2 overall, tallying the most wins in seven seasons. Union was 6-4 in 2018.

Caden Sorensen paced the Knights with 192 total yards, passing for 100 and rushing for 92. He ran for three TDs and passed for two more, hitting Cooper Spore and Jase Loveless for scores.

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