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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 Van Horne, IA

Home Care Van Horne, 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 the historic Bedstemor's House 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 Van Horne, IA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

In-Home Care Van Horne, 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.

Hear from Our Clients
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

“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 Van Horne, 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 Van Horne, IA

Types of Elderly Care in Van Horne, 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 Van Horne, 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 Van Horne, 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 Wildcat Bluff Recreation Area 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 Van Horne, 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 Crooked Antler Pizza & Grill or visit Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, 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 Van Horne, IA

Benefits of Home Care in Van Horne, 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 Van Horne, 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 Van Horne, 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 Van Horne, 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 Van Horne, 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 Van Horne, 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 Van Horne, 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:

  • Sunrise Assisted Living Suites
  • Windsor Manor Assisted Living Community
  • Amana Retirement Community - Lakeview Village
  • Rock Ridge Residential Care
  • Keystone Senior Suites
  • Keystone Care Center
Home Care Van Horne, 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 Van Horne, 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 Van Horne, 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 Van Horne, IA

Latest News in Van Horne, IA

Funding improvements to ‘aging buildings’ priority of next Benton superintendent

Incoming Benton schools Superintendent James Bieschke believes the people make the school, community a ‘special place’Grace King VAN HORNE — Securing funding to improve “aging buildings” in the Benton Community School District will be one of the top priorities of incoming Superintendent James Bieschke.Bieschke, 49, who officially begins his new role July 1, said he is “listening to voters” as dis...

Incoming Benton schools Superintendent James Bieschke believes the people make the school, community a ‘special place’

Grace King

VAN HORNE — Securing funding to improve “aging buildings” in the Benton Community School District will be one of the top priorities of incoming Superintendent James Bieschke.

Bieschke, 49, who officially begins his new role July 1, said he is “listening to voters” as district officials consider next steps following a failed bond referendum in March.

Residents opposed the $48.5 million school bond referendum for Benton schools with 64 percent voting against the measure and 65 percent voting against a levy to pay the principal of the bond.

Read More: Bond referendums in three Eastern Iowa school districts being considered Tuesday

“We have aging buildings that need to be improved. Securing funding for those projects is at the top of the list,” Bieschke said.

Bieschke, who has been associate superintendent in the Benton school district since 2020, said he doesn’t look at the defeated bond referendum as a failure. “We gained so much information and created discussion in our community. Those are positive steps moving forward.”

Bieschke said his initial observations gathered from a survey to community members this spring is that the tax impact of the bond, the overall cost of the project and current economy were the main factors influencing the way people voted.

The proposed projects under the referendum included building a new elementary school in Van Horne, renovations and an addition to Atkins Elementary School, and safety upgrades and improvements to the heating, cooking and electrical system at the middle and high school.

Land would need to be acquired to build an 80,000-square-foot elementary school, with the capacity for 600 to 700 prekindergarten to sixth-graders.

It was the first bond referendum in the Benton Community School District since 1979.

“The board knows we need to slow down a little to figure out what might be acceptable to our voters,” Bieschke said.

There are “no plans” to go back to voters with another bond referendum as district officials reevaluate the needs of the schools and community and different funding avenues, Bieschke said.

The district serves about 1,700 K-12 students across eight communities — Atkins, Blairstown, Elberon, Keystone, Newhall, Norway, Van Horne and Watkins — and is growing by 1 to 2 percent every year, district officials said.

Bieschke has years of experience as an educator in Benton schools and elsewhere across the state. His first teaching job was as a business teacher at Benton High School. From there, he went to teach and coach wrestling at Prairie City-Monroe High School in Monroe.

Interested in administration, Bieschke earned a principal licensure at Drake University — where he also later earned a Ph.D. From there Bieschke moved to Marengo to be a principal in the Iowa Valley Community School District.

When the principal position at Benton High School opened up, Bieschke applied, calling his return to the district was a “dream come true.”

Bieschke was promoted to associate superintendent of the district in 2020 when schools closed to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Outgoing Superintendent Pamela Ewell, who is retiring, gave “invaluable” guidance and leadership to Bieschke, he said.

“It’s exciting and a little nerve-wracking” to be named the next leader of the district, Bieschke said. “I have so much respect for the people who have been a part of this district in the past. I want to continue the good work. I do feel that pressure, that weight, and I want to make sure I carry on the success of the district.”

“I truly believe Benton is a special place and it comes down to the people,” Bieschke said.

Bieschke grew up in Sloan and graduated from Westwood High School. He credits his work ethic with wrestling as a student-athlete and growing up on a farm with his grandparents.

While Bieschke is no longer involved in coaching wrestling, he thinks it’s “awesome” the sport was expanded to high school girls last school year.

“I thought it might take a few years for Benton to get (girls wrestling) off the ground, but there was an immediate outpouring of girls interested,” Bieschke said.

Bieschke is meeting with other school leaders and legal counsel on how to implement new legislation for schools made by the Iowa Legislature, he said.

“We get these mandates and sometimes we really have to search for the best way to go about it,” he said.

Regardless, Bieschke said the district will adhere to their vision of “quality education for a lifetime of learning,” he said.

Comments: (319) 398-8411; [email protected]

Bobcats and beyond are wearing orange to support Benton Community’s Tatum Schroeder

VAN HORNE, Iowa (KCRG) - For the first time in their five trips to the state tournament, Benton Community earned a quarterfinal victory as they took down Des Moines Christian winning 40-34.“I think the experience of playing down there last year, definitely helped get some of those jitters out of the way early,” Benton Community girls basketball head coach Jeff Zittergruen said.“After the clock hit zero, a lot of pressure just went off our shoulders,” senior guard Jenna Twedt said. “We were really, ...

VAN HORNE, Iowa (KCRG) - For the first time in their five trips to the state tournament, Benton Community earned a quarterfinal victory as they took down Des Moines Christian winning 40-34.

“I think the experience of playing down there last year, definitely helped get some of those jitters out of the way early,” Benton Community girls basketball head coach Jeff Zittergruen said.

“After the clock hit zero, a lot of pressure just went off our shoulders,” senior guard Jenna Twedt said. “We were really, really happy. We knew all the hard work we put in throughout the season had paid off at that moment. "

While the Bobcats donned their usual blue and gold, they also wore orange bows and shoelaces.

“The orange is for Tatum,” Twedt explained.

Tatum Schroeder is a sophomore on the Benton Community girls basketball team, who recently suffered a concussion during a game. Her symptoms lingered longer than expected.

“She couldn’t ever finish a drill in practice, which was really weird. She’s always been one of those people who can just like run for forever. She just has high stamina,” Twedt said.

After a trip to the emergency room, Tatum was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia.

“To go from thinking that it might be that, to the worst case scenario with the diagnosis, it was definitely tough. It’s been tough for our girls. You have to grow up quite a bit when you see a teammate who is really in a spot where she’s going to have a really, big fight ahead of her,” Zittergruen said.

She’s receiving treatments at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, which means Tatum had to watch the Bobcats’ first game from her hospital bed. She saw her teammates wearing orange, the color of leukemia awareness, to show their support.

“It’s not good to be in that situation at all, but we have her back. We’re here for her and just hoping she can keep fighting,” junior guard Emma Townsley said.

It’s not just the Van Horne community wearing orange. Even their county rival and state semifinal opponent Vinton-Shellsburg had t-shirts created to show their support. The Vikettes know in times like these, the two communities separated by just 14 miles, are stronger together.

“It’s really cool that even though we’re rivals, they’re still able to be with us for a cause,” Townsley said.

“At the end of the day, basketball is basketball, but seeing everyone come together and show their support for her is really cool,” Twedt added.

Copyright 2023 KCRG. All rights reserved.

Van Horne Newsletter September

Greetings Van Horne area residents!Congratulations to the Benton Community softball team in achieving their goal of a state championship. Well done.With summer sports winding down, fall sports are kicking into gear. Keep in mind when traveling our city streets that there are a lot of athletes that are using those same streets as a practice area. Please drive carefully.Time to thank some city residents that do a lot of organization, as well as running programs in our town. First off, the council and I would like to thank ...

Greetings Van Horne area residents!

Congratulations to the Benton Community softball team in achieving their goal of a state championship. Well done.

With summer sports winding down, fall sports are kicking into gear. Keep in mind when traveling our city streets that there are a lot of athletes that are using those same streets as a practice area. Please drive carefully.

Time to thank some city residents that do a lot of organization, as well as running programs in our town. First off, the council and I would like to thank the organizers of the Music Fest that was held back in June. They are Eva Bartelt and Beth Hoopes. Thank you for all the time and organizational skills for this event.

Also, now that the summer recreation programs are completed, we would like to say thanks to these individuals who are either on the Rec Board (Rebecca Norton, Curtis Janssen, Jen Bange) or helped out in any way with the summer programs.

Has anybody driven down Main Street and not noticed the beautiful flower planters along the street? They are gorgeous. We have the following people from the Floralia Arrangers to thank for these lovely displays: Janet Knaack, Carla Albertsen, Pat Franzenburg, Paula Frazier, Gloria Feurbach, Mary Fry, Faye Nolan, Winifred Nolan, Dorothy Paulsen, Evelyn Petersen, Gladys Werner and Karen Werner.

I apologize if we have missed anyone, we thank you all. The council approved Craig Ivester to fill the vacant council position. Thank you for volunteering and welcome aboard.

Keep in mind school will be beginning soon and with it will be another group of beginning drivers and the streets will also have a lot more traffic. Again, drive safely.

Thought for the month from an unknown! “Every failure will teach you a lesson that you need to learn, if you keep your eyes and ears open and be willing to be taught. Every adversity is usually a blessing in disguise. Without reverses and temporary defeat, you would never know the sort of metal of which you are made.”

Thanks and have a great rest of the month as well as Labor Day.

Your Mayor Marty.

Dates on Deck

August 19 Angry Birds Movie and fun at the VH Rec Complex around 7:30 p.m.

August 20 Van Horne Fireman Dinner from 5-7 p.m. @ Emergency Response Station

August 30 Senior Citizen Luncheon at Noon @ community center

September 8 Book Club at 3:30 p.m. @ the library

September 8 “Prohibition in Eastern Iowa” at 7 p.m. @ the library

September 12 Library Board Meeting at 5:30 p.m. @ the library

September 12 Van Horne Council Meeting @ 6:30 p.m.

September 18 Lions Breakfast from 8:30 to noon @ community center. Future Green Tree Giveaway

September 24 Fall garage sales from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

EZ TRASH SOLUTIONS: Starting June 30, we have been contracting our garbage through EZ Trash Solutions of Brandon. So far I have received no complaints and haven’t heard of any issues other than reprogramming our brains to put garbage out on Thursdays now. “Welcome Aboard” Bill and Dawn Phillips. With new companies come changes, and I believe these are for the good. In the past, the Van Horne Businessmen have been instrumental in a town wide clean-up day. The Phillips have a program where they will pick up your bulky items anytime during the year. You can just call them 319-521-6978, email them [email protected] or visit their website eztrashsolution.com to schedule a pickup. Stay tuned for an update next month on recyclables vs. garbage.

WE WRITE IT; YOU SHOULD READ IT: The Van Horne Monthly Newsletter can be found in the Hometown Journal that comes out on the second Wednesday following the city council meeting (usually the third Wednesday of the month). Printed in the Star Press Union and on their website monthly. Copies can be picked up at city hall in the vestibule. Or check out the city website.

VAN HORNE FUTURE GREEN will be having a drawing to give away a nice Sugar Maple tree (includes planting) at the September 18 Van Horne Lions Breakfast. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY! Just sign up at the breakfast! Please come enjoy a great breakfast and have a chance to win a beautiful tree to be planted in a spot of your choice!

VAN HORNE FIRE DEPARTMENT ANNUAL FUNDRAISER DINNER: It is at the Van Horne Fire Station on Saturday Aug. 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. Serving: Ribeye steaks, pork chops, salads, sides and drinks. Please support this worthy cause.

FALL GARAGE SALES: It’s that time again. Clean out your cupboards and drawers. Fall Garage Sales are scheduled for Sept. 24, 2016. Watch for sign ups at Chelsea Bank.

LIONS NEWS

Lions breakfast on Sunday, Sept. 18, 8:30 a.m. to noon. The Future Green will be giving away a tree and planting at this breakfast and all you have to do is sign up. Garbage bags for sale at the Chelsea Savings Bank or call 228-8148 or 228-8348.

REC NEWS

• Van Horne Rec Department will host an Angry Birds movie night at the ballpark on Friday, Aug. 19. Please bring some blankets or chairs and arrive around 7:30 p.m. or after for some fun and games, the movie will start at dusk!

• Next Rec Board meeting will be held Sept. 19 at 7 p.m. at the community center.

• As always, we are looking for new committee members to help out at the various activities for our kids! Please contact [email protected] if you want to be added to the email list as a committee member.

• If you have any ideas or suggestions for us to look into for this coming year please email us at [email protected]

LIBRARY NEWS

“PROHIBITION IN EASTERN IOWA “ Presentation: The Van Horne Public Library will be having a program on “Prohibition in Eastern Iowa” with author Linda McCann. The presentation will be Thursday, Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. in the library. Everyone is invited to join us for the program and refreshments!

Prohibition was the 13-year period when it was illegal to manufacture, sell or transport liquor in the U.S. So, why did so many Iowa farmers chose to break the law and make moonshine? Linda was able to speak with the children of moonshiners and bootleggers and was surprised to discover their reasons. Whatever was going on nationwide, went on in Iowa. Al Capone was here. Murders occurred over liquor. There were gunfights on our narrow two-lane roads. Linda will share items specific to your area.

Prohibition in Eastern Iowa was published by The Iowan Books, and was runner-up for the Shambaurgh Prize for nonfiction in Iowa in 2014. She will have copies of this book and all her books available for purchase.

CHECK IT OUT!

DVDs - Batman vs. Superman, Miracle from Heaven, Allegiant

Children’s titles - My First Pet , Space Princess and Happy Howl-o-ween by Mary Man-Kong, Max and Ruby’s Preschool Pranks by Rosemary Wells, Curious George: Farm to Table by Julie M. Fenner, The Berenstain Bears Visit the Firehouse by Mike Berenstain, Night of the Ninth Dragon by Mary Pope Osborne

Adult fiction Titles - Magic by Danielle Steel, Make Me Love You by Johanna Lindsey, The Games by James Patterson, Someone Always Knows by Marcia Muller, First Comes Love by Emily Giffin, Here’s to Us by Elin Hilderbrand, Before the Fall by Noah Hawley, Once Upon a Wine by Beth Kendrick, The Hearts of Horses by Molly Glass, Modern Girls by Jennifer S. Brown, Night and Day by Iris Johansen, Midair by Kodi Scheer, My Mrs. Brown by William D. Norwich, The Assistants by Camille Perri, Mrs. Lee and Mrs. Gray by Dorothy Love, The Second Half by Lauraine Snelling, Honor Redeemed by Christine Johnson, Every Bride Has Her Day by Janice Thompson

Non-fiction titles - A Father’s Betrayal by Gabriella Gillespie

Memorial dedicated in Van Horne

A Veterans Memorial dedication in Van Horne drew the company of Sen. Joni Ernst, at a ceremony on Friday, Nov. 11, at the community center. The memorial is next to the fire station in Van Horne.Van Horne Mayor Marty Junge said, “This memorial is a fantastic addition to the City of Van Horne.” He thanked the veterans who served the country.Jay Herman of the Van Horne Legion pointed out the project started with the vision a couple of years ago by Legion members in Van Horne. He introduced Commander Bob ...

A Veterans Memorial dedication in Van Horne drew the company of Sen. Joni Ernst, at a ceremony on Friday, Nov. 11, at the community center. The memorial is next to the fire station in Van Horne.

Van Horne Mayor Marty Junge said, “This memorial is a fantastic addition to the City of Van Horne.” He thanked the veterans who served the country.

Jay Herman of the Van Horne Legion pointed out the project started with the vision a couple of years ago by Legion members in Van Horne. He introduced Commander Bob Wilson, Mike Kerkman and Don Knaack, commending them for the work they put into it. Jim Barr was the finance officer. Dick Duncalf, Bob McVay, Derrick Pickering and Herman rounded out the committee.

Ernst presented the Hanford Trophy to Commander Wilson for their community service prior to her speech.

Herman also presented a plaque of dedication to Mayor Junge. Herman also thanked Junge for the help from his business who helped install the monument, as well as the fire department of Van Horne.

Junge thanked Legion members, past and present, saying, “You instilled a great work ethic into Post. Your Post is fantastic. You do a lot of things in the community and the community does appreciate it. I’ve never seen, in a small community like this, money raised for something like that.”

Junge pointed out a lot of money was raised for the community room they were in that afternoon, as well as the library and city hall. The Legion did this project on their own within a year and half. “It’s a tremendous thing for the community.”

Ernst thanked the veterans and those that support the veterans, especially the five veterans who served in World War II. “Thank for your service. It is a great honor to be in your presence today,” she said.

Ernst gave a history of her military service and what made her successful in the military and her career. Her interest started when she was at Iowa State and went on an agricultural exchange in Ukraine. She wanted to be a part of a group that protects the rights and opportunities she didn’t see in Communist Ukraine. She served for 23 years.

“We are a wonderful country. It is our honor and our opportunity to defend those values,” Ernst said.

Her four pillars by which she has conducted her career are assuming risk, leadership, selfless service and gratitude, using examples from her life and the lives of those she awarded medals to that day.

She said veterans represent those four pillars and the best in the United States.

She told the veterans, “God bless you for raising your right hand when you knew times would be difficult. We appreciate your service so very much. God bless you all for your wonderful service.”

Prep wrestling: Raiders give coach E special win

VAN HORNE -- The Bobcat Jerry Eckenrod Invitational hosted by Benton Community High School the past 43 years brings to it some of the best wrestlers and teams in the state, regardless of class.To win this event is special. Extra special when you’re the son of the late Hall of Fame Benton coach for whom this tournament was named after, and as Williamsburg’s head coach had his team stamped champions for the first time.Grant Eckenrod’s Raiders showed good balance throughout their lineup in last Sat...

VAN HORNE -- The Bobcat Jerry Eckenrod Invitational hosted by Benton Community High School the past 43 years brings to it some of the best wrestlers and teams in the state, regardless of class.

To win this event is special. Extra special when you’re the son of the late Hall of Fame Benton coach for whom this tournament was named after, and as Williamsburg’s head coach had his team stamped champions for the first time.

Grant Eckenrod’s Raiders showed good balance throughout their lineup in last Saturday’s victory at Van Horne, placing 12 of its 13 wrestlers — 10 of those fourth or better — and accumulating a meet best 194 points, 6-1/2 ahead of runner-up Don Bosco.

Jerry Eckenrod coached Benton from 1968-97. He won 212 duals and coached 41 state qualifiers, including four state champions. Grant Eckenrod was a two-time state medalist in three trips to Des Moines under his father’s guidance.

“I’m very proud of our kids,” said Grant Eckenrod. “I know they are wrestling for themselves and each other, but this means a lot.”

Grayson Kesterson spearheaded the Raiders’ title drive by claiming the 106-pound championship. Ranked fourth in Class 2A, Kesterson recorded an impressive win in the final, pinning Union Community’s No. 2 rated Jack Thomsen in 3:04 to run his record to 25-1.

Freshman teammate Jalen Schropp joined Kesterson in the finals, taking runner-up honors at 113 pounds. Schropp picked up two pins and a major decision before losing a wild match to West Marshall’s Hunter Pfantz, 16-15.

Josh Holub (195) and Logan Knutson (285) collected third places for Williamsburg, Jose Maldonado (138), Gage Blythe (145), Gage Hazen-Fabor (152), Tucker Stanerson (170), Isaac Maser (182) and Dalton Kuhnle (220) all finished fourth, Cavin Malloy (160) came in fifth and Garrett Jenson (120) was eighth.

Grant Eckrenrod said winning this tournament was big for his team. “We talk about taking it to the next level, but we haven’t walked the walk,” he said. “Maybe this is the first step.”

BOBCAT JERRY ECKENROD INVITATIONAL

Team scores (top 5 only)

1. Williamsburg 194, 2. Don Bosco 178.5, 3. Davenport Assumption 165, 4. Cedar Rapids Jefferson 147, 5. Dallas Center-Grimes 136.

Williamsburg results

106 — Grayson Kesterson, 1st, 29 team points: Quarterfinals: pinned Jaden Collins (CRJ) 0:46; Semifinals: major dec. Peyton Braunschweig (DCG) 13-0; Finals: pinned Jack Thomsen (Union) 3:04.

113 — Jalen Schropp, 2nd, 23 points: 1st round: pinned Justin Holst (M) 1:41; Quarterfinals: pinned Ayden Kovaleski (DCG) 0:56; Semifinals: major dec. Carter Weeks (VS) 11-0; Finals: lost by dec. to Hunter Pfantz (WM) 16-15.

120 — Garrett Jenson, 8th, 7 points: 1st round: pinned Spencer Milling (BC) 5:40; Quarterfinals: lost by fall to Brock Henderson (NL) 3:44; 2nd round cons: lost by major dec. to Luke Rasdeke (VS) 13-2; 3rd round cons: major dec. Brady Webb (I, 13-0; 7th/8th place: lost by fall to Kayden Kauzlarich (C) 0:55.

126 — Dylan Caskey, DNP. Quarterfinals: lbf to Sean Casey (DA) 0:25; 2nd round cons: lost by dec. to Matthew Doyle (I) 11-5; 3rd round cons: lost by fall to Jacob Worthen (U) 5:46.

138 — Jose Maldonado, 4th, 14 points: Quarterfinals: dec. Cole Engel (WD) 6-1; Semifinals: lost by fall to Bryce Mureano (DCG) 1:31; 3rd round cons: dec. Tanner Erickson-Dale (I) 6-4; 3rd/4th place: lost by major dec. to Chris Karamitros (CRW) 11-3.

145 — Gage Blythe, 4th, 13 points: 1st round: pinned Sam Graesert (I) 1:52; Quarterfinals: lost by dec. tp Ethan Hromidko (NL) 5-3; 2nd round cons: dec. Antonio (CRJ) 3-1; 3rd round cons: dec. Thomas Even (DB) 2-0; 3rd/4thplace: lost by dec. to Dakota Boyer (EBF) 3-0.

152 — Gage Hazen-Fabor, 4th, 13 points: 1st rondo: major dec. Tristan Voelker (WD) 11-2; Quarterfnals: dec. Dustin Anderson(CRJ) 6-4; Semifinals: lost by tech. fall to Zane Mulder (DCG) 20-5, 4:00; 3rd round cons: dec. Brody Scheer (BC) 4-1; 3rd/4th place: lost by dec. to Abe Michel (M) 7-1.

160 — Cavin Malloy, 5th, 13 points: 1st round: major dec. Tristan Voelker (WD) 11-2; Quarterfinals: dec. Seth House (I) 5-0; semifinals: lost by fall to Julien Brodersen (DA) 2:59; 3rd round cons: lost by dec. to Bryce Schares (DB) 5-4; 5th/6th place: won by medical forfeit over Tyonchi Johnson (CRW).

170 — Tucker Stanerson, 4th, 14 points: 1st rojund: dec. Brady Neth (M) 7-2; Quarterfinals: pinned Gaige Berryman (EBF) 2:37; Semifnals: lost by dec. to Kort Johnson (VS) 2-0; 3rd round cons: dec. Sam Johnson (WD) 4-3; 3rd/4th place: lost by tech. fall to BrockTimmons (DA) 16-1, 3:10.

182 — Isaac Maser, 4th, 17 points: Quarterfinals: won by medical forfeit over Riley Pfiner (BC); Semifinals: lost by dec. to Tavian Rashed (CRJ) 10-5; 3rd round cons: major dec. Peyton Nolting (I) 12-1; 3rd/4th place: lost by dec. to Harrison Goebel (WD) 7-2.

195 — Josh Holub, 3rd, 15 points: 1st round: pinned Shawn Solomon (M) 2:37; Quarterfinals: lost by fall to Samuel Maresh (BC 2:21; 2nd round cons: dec. Hunter Crawford (I) 1-0; 3rd round cons: dec. Taylor Viktora (CRJ) 6-3; 3rd/4thplace: dec. Matt Cobler (EBF) 6-0.

220 — Dalton Kuhnle, 4th, 18 points: Quarterfnals: pinned Kane McEnany (NL) 2:38; lost by fall to Noah Broderson (DA) 1:49; 3rd round cons: pinned Joe Kaiser (I) 3:25; 3rd/4th place: lost by fall to William Faulkner (CRW) 2:22.

285 — Logan Knutson, 3rd, 18 points: Quarterfinals: dec. Kaleb Zieser (WD) 4-3; Semifinals: lost by fall to Kyler Schott (NL) 0:42; 3rd round cons: pinned Nolan Melchert (DA) 4:23; 3rd/4th place: dec. Kaleb Zieser (WD) 3-1.

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