Russell News Prepares for a Leave of Absence

Russell News is taking a leave of absence for January-February, some slower news months in the area.

We will also take that time to evaluate to see if there is any interest in continuing. If no one steps up during that time to help, it will be retired. If you have any thoughts on how to continue, if it has accomplished its goals by keeping the public informed or if there is a need for any change in format, please use the contacts at the end of this edition, or call Karen at 535-6251 or Bob and Sharon at 535-2602.

Russell City Council Mini-minutes December 1, 2014 

Brian Beaty gave the Fire Department report. The new rescue is in service. The fire department has received a grant to purchase new slide-in units for the grass trucks.

Our new water/wastewater permit compliance requires a self-assessment and the need to secure the services of an engineer. The lagoon inspection report was distributed to all council members.

M. Neer had asked the council at a previous meeting if the city would forgive the tax lien assessed to the property prior to their purchase. Approved.
Duane and Dana saw a copy of the Iowa Municipal Policy Leaders Handbook-A Guide for Iowa Mayor's and Council Members. They felt it was a very good guide to have available to the Mayor and Council. The cost is $29.00 each or $26.50 for five or more copies. Approval was made to purchase 2 copies.
Any Special Business event that include outside music will be limited to one street event per calendar month. Each business will be limited to one street event per month. Permission for each street event must be obtained from the city council at the council meeting the month before the event. Set up must be completed no earlier than 6 a.m Saturday morning with take down completed by one hour after business closing. Sunday-Thursday nights any outside music will be off by 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights any outside music will be off by 1 a.m. There will be a resolution prepared to be approved at the next council meeting concerning these guidelines.
Discussion followed concerning some vandalism to the Community Building downspouts and some graffiti on the back wall of the bandstand.
Resolution was passed for City Employee Larry Mitchell’s 2015 paid holiday schedule.
There will be a budget work session on Thursday, January 8, 2015 at 6 p.m.
Council members present were Dana Blue, Susan Beecher, Jay Pierschbacher and Crystal Moore,
along with Duane Bedford, Mayor Pro Tem, and Wendy Nickell, City Clerk. Others attending were Police Chief Jeff Johnson, city employee Larry Mitchell and Brian Beaty representing the fire department.
The next meeting will be on Monday January 5, 2015 at 7 p.m.

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December Calendar

Sunday School, 9:30-10:15 a.m. During Advent Faith United Methodist Sunday School class will be using Adam Hamilton's video series, the Journey. It is about the trip to Bethlehem.

Monday, December 15, 5:15 p.m. Russell Museum Board meeting

Sunday, December 14th , 6 p.m. First Baptist Christmas Cantata, Candlelight service and Children's program, followed by a cookie fellowship.

Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24 at 6 p.m. Faith United Methodist Church Christmas Eve service .

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical Society Blog:
http://russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com/ 

For Lucas County information try their blog at www.lucascountygenealogy.blogspot.com.
If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please e-mail myoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402.

Around Town, November 25th

November Calendar 

Tuesday, November 25th 7 p.m. The Inter-church Council Thanksgiving service will be at the First United Methodist Church in Chariton. Everyone welcome. 

Thursday, November 27, Thanksgiving Day, give thanks for the freedoms we have 

Sunday, November 30, Faith United Methodist Church will have a Hanging of the Greens. Worship from 10:30-11:30. Hanging of the Greens to follow worship and potluck to follow Hanging of the Greens. 

December Calendar 

For Advent Faith United Methodist Sunday School class will be using Adam Hamilton's video series, the Journey. It is about the trip to Bethlehem. Sunday School is from 9:30-10:15 Sunday mornings. 

Monday, December 1, 7 p.m. Russell City Council meeting 

Tuesday, December 2nd , 3-7 p.m., Blood Drive at the Community Center. Contact Deb at 641-203-0681 to set up an appointment. 

Tuesday, December 2nd, 2 p.m. Garden Club at Ellen Hawkins, everyone welcome 

Tuesday, December 2nd, 6 p.m. American Legion/Auxiliary 

Wednesday, December 3, 6:30 p.m. Faith United Methodist Church Night Owl's group will meet at Connie Smith's for our Christmas meeting. We will be taking a collection of items for abused women and children. For those who want to participate there will be a gift exchange. 

Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24 at 6 p.m. The Christmas Eve service at Faith United Methodist Church. 

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical Society Blog: 

http://russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com 

For Lucas County information try their blog at:

http://lucascountygenealogy.blogspot.com

If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please e-mail myoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402. 

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Around Town November 18th

November Calendar

Mon, Nov 24, 1:15 p.m. Russell News meeting at the Museum, everyone welcome. 

Thu, Nov 27, Thanksgiving Day, give thanks for the freedoms we have. 

Tue, Dec 2nd , 3-7 p.m., Blood Drive at the Community Center. Contact Deb at 641-203-0681 to set. 

up an appointment. 

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Russell Council Mini-minutes 

November 3, 2014

   The Council approved Resolution 14-9, City of Russell employee handbook and Resolution 14-10, Filing Nuisance Abatement properties with the Lucas County Treasurer were approved.

   Vicki Jordan commended our first responders and the Fire Department on their prompt arrival to their personal emergency. 

    Harley Haven will continue to have events to help fund FD so they can get the training and equipment they need. 

    The 1997 Fire Department fire rescue truck is here. Craig is working to outfit the unit with the needed equipment and supplies and will check with RRWA about testing fire hydrants.

Pictured is the 1997 Rescue Unit that was recently purchased
by the Russell Fire Department (Bill Howes photo)

   Larry will attend to cleaning ditches at Mumford/Sallee properties as weather and work constraints allow and clean out trees at Garfield and Smith and level out where water pools build up.

   Ed will be meeting with Ray this week concerning The Track.

   The City Clerk will attend the Annual Budget training presented by the Iowa League of Cities.

   Ron Bingham will be asked to fix the east facing Russell sign at Hwy 34.

   It was agreed to purchase, for a reasonable price of $100, an 

emergency double light for the dump truck (if needed, it may just need a new bulb) and $35 for a single light for the pickup and skid loader with purchases made at O'Reilly Auto Parts.

  Tennis court paint quote is $5675 from Tennis Services of Iowa.  We are still waiting to hear on the grant from SPLASH. Craig G. will also submit a grant to SCICF. 

  Council members in attendance were Susan Beecher, Duane Bedford, Dana Blue, Jay Pierschbacher, and Crystal Moore along with Ed Scheel, Mayor, Wendy Nickell, City Clerk, and Fire Chief Craig Alexander.

   The next meeting will be on Monday December 1, 2014 at 7pm.

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical Society Blog:

http://russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com. 

For Lucas County information try their blog at:

http://lucascountygenealogy.blogspot.com.

If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please e-mail:

myoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402.

Trunk or Treat

   On Saturday, Oct. 25, 2014, Russell Community had their Trunk or Treat event at the Trojan Field.  It was a great success.  There were lots of kids in different costumes from an elephant, to Dorothy, and many others.  The costume contests were split up into 3 groups.  The winners of the Preschool and under were:  1st place - Aislin Carroll, a donut; 2nd place - Marin Neer, a Polka Dot; 3rd place - Tucker Marler, a Robot.  The winners for K-2nd were:  1st place - Calvin Briggs, SI; 2nd place - Baylor Atwell, a Rodeo Clown; 3rd place - Sophia Martin, a Hippie Girl.  The winners for 3rd and up were:  1st place - Briley Atwell, a Crazy Cat Lady; 2nd place - Ava Johnson, as Dorothy; 3rd place - Blayne Beaty, as Willie.

   It was a gorgeous day for this event.

Lucas County Arts Council's Arts Festival

Arts Festival held on October 25th at the Chariton Freight House.

Around Town Nov 11th

No new news this week, but here is the November calendar so far this month.

Tuesday, November 11, Veteran's Day, Please fly your flag and thank a veteran

Sunday, November 16, 2 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Center-fire rifle

Monday, November 17, 5:15 p.m. Museum Board Meeting

Monday, November 17, 6 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Annual meeting in the new education building. Supper at 6: p.m.; meeting to follow.

Monday, November 24, 1:15 p.m. Russell News meeting at the Museum

Thursday, November 27, Thanksgiving Day

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical Society Blog:

http://russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com. 

For Lucas County information try their blog at:

http://lucascountygenealogy.blogspot.com.

If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please e-mail:

myoak10@gmail.com 

or call 641-535-2402.

Around Town November 4th

Around Town

   Tue, Nov 4, 7 a.m.-9 p.m. is a big day in our country in which we have the privilege of voting.  Please take seriously your civic duty and cast your vote.  
  The Russell Community Club's Trunk and Treat party was a success thanks to Hardee's, BP, Casey's, Last Chance, and Keith Goodrich for donating prizes that was held on Saturday 25, at the Campground in Russell.  There was a big crowd of kids that attended and everyone had a good time.  Also thanks to the young group of the Russell Community Club for getting this day organized and a success.
  The Museum welcomes Robin Thompson as the new curator, and thanks Betty Cross for her years of service. It takes time and perseverance to preserve our communities history and it is appreciated.

November Calendar

   Tue, Nov 4, 7 a. m. - 9 p.m. State wide election.

   Tue, Nov 4, 2 p.m. Garden Club at Pat Lindeman's, Guests are always welcome.  Call Ginger at 535-2023 for details. They enjoyed their October meeting at Martha Allen's.  Her lesson was about vegetables that can also be used in flowerbeds for their decorative leaves.  Elephant ears are also wonderful for their size, shape, and colors.

   Tue, Nov 4, 6 p.m. American Legion/Auxiliary at the Community Center

  Wed, Nov 5, 6:30 P.M. The Faith United Methodist's Night Owls will meet at Louise Narber's. Louise will also have the lesson.

   Thu, Nov 6, 6:30 p.m. The Russell Community Club meet at the Russell Community Center.

   Fri, Nov 7, 9 a.m. Putting out flags for the Avenue of Flags at the Russell Cemetery.

   Fri, Nov 7, 6 p.m. Russell Auxiliary/Legion supper to honor Russell Veteran's and their spouses.

   Tue, Nov 11, Veteran's Day, Please fly your flag and thank a veteran

   Sun, Nov 16, 2 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Center-fire rifle 

   Mon, Nov 17, 5:15 p.m. Museum Board Meeting

  Mon, Nov 17, 6 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Annual meeting in the new education building.  Supper at 6 p.m., meeting to follow.

   Mon, Nov 24, 1:15 p.m. Russell News meeting at the Museum

   Thu, Nov 27, Thanksgiving Day

         

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical Society Blog:

http://russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com. For Lucas County information try their blog at http://lucascountygenealogy.blogspot.com.  If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please e-mailmyoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402.

Around Town October 28, 2014

November Calendar

Sun, Nov 2, 2 p.m. - Russell Sportsmen's Club Trap shoot

Mon, Nov 3, 7 p.m. - Russell City Council meeting 

Tue, Nov 4, 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. - State-wide election, be prepared when you vote.

Tue, Nov 4, 2 p.m. - Garden Club at Pat Lindeman's; Guests are always welcome. Call Ginger at 535-2023 for details. They enjoyed their October meeting at Martha Allen's. Her lesson was about vegetables that can also be used in flowerbeds for their decorative leaves. Elephant ears are also wonderful for their size, shape, and colors.

Tue, Nov 4, 6 p.m. - American Legion/Auxiliary at the Community Center 

Wed, Nov 5, 6:30 p.m. - The Faith United Methodist's Night Owls will meet at Louise Narber's. Louise will also have the lesson. 

Sun, Nov 16, 2 p.m. - Russell Sportsmen's Club Center-fire rifle 

Mon, Nov 17, 5:15 p.m. - Museum Board Meeting 

Mon, Nov 17, 6 p.m. - Russell Sportsmen's Club Annual meeting 

Thu, Nov 27, - Thanksgiving Day 

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical Society Blog:

http://russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com. 

For Lucas County information try their blog at 

http://lucascountygenealogy.blogspot.com.

If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please

e-mail myoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402.

Around Town October 21st

October Calendar

Thu, Oct 23, 6:30 p.m. Community Club at the Community Center 

Sat, Oct 25th -The Second Annual Trunk or Treat event is being sponsored by the Russell Community Club. Any child who wants to attend is invited but MUST be accompanied by an adult. No age limit. 

Trick or Treating will run from 1 p.m until 2 p.m. at participating cars. A hay ride, hot dogs and hot chocolate will follow and activities should be finished by 4 p.m.. There will also be prizes awarded.  It will be held at the Trojan Field, with a rain date of Saturday, November 1st. 

Mon, Oct 27, 1:15 p.m. Russell News meeting at the Museum, every one welcome.

Fri, Oct 31, Happy Halloween, Stay Safe.

Tue, Nov 4, State wide election, be prepared when you vote.

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical Society Blog:

http://russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com. 

For Lucas County information try their blog at

http://lucascountygenealogy.blogspot.com.

If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please e-mail Me at

 myoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402.

Around Town October 14th

 Around Town

The Second Annual Trunk or Treat event is being sponsored by

 the Russell Community Club.

Any child who wants to attend is invited but MUST be accompanied by an adult. It is not for Russell residents only and there is no age limit.

Trick or Treating will run from 1 p.m until 2 p.m. at participating cars. A hay ride, hot dogs and hot chocolate will follow and activities should be finished by 4 p.m. There will also be prizes awarded.

It will be held at the Trojan Field on Saturday, October 25^th, with a rain date of Saturday, November 1^st.

Russell Council Mini-Minutes  October 6, 2014

Beggar’s night  this yea will be held on the evening of Thursday October 30^th  from 6-8 p.m.

Cain Patterson has been voted on as a member of the Fire Dept...  Council members will look   over another copy of a handbook for discussion and approval... It was determined that a resolution will be drawn up to outline guidelines for music or other events in town...  Resurfacing the tennis court will be postponed until spring.  SPLASH grant is still pending on whether we will get any funds. Craig Gooder will write a grant to SCICF also.... A court date was postponed to Oct. 14 on a nuisance complaint...  Legal documents will be initiated regarding issues with The Track... Lori Myers explained issues with cleaning up their yard. .. A 1997 rescue/pumper truck has been located.  A $25,000 grant from the Vredenburg Foundation and $40,000 from the Fire Department Money Market account will be used as payment.  A grant for $15,000 will be coming to the Fire Dept. in November and will be deposited back into the FD-MM account.  ISO fire protection inspector will be here Oct 7.  The roof of the original Fire department building is leaking in a 2-3 places, possibly around vent pipes. Kevin McCullough will be contacted to check and fix the leaks.

 Mayor Ed Scheel, Mayor Pro Tem Duane Bedford and City Clerk Wendy Nickell were approved as signers on the city accounts at Great Western Bank...Emergency street lighting costs will continue to be researched.  Chris Feehan received permission to remove the sidewalk in front of 704 S. Prairie...  In the 600 block of South Chapman a tree on the city right-of-way is a hazard and needs to be removed .The council gave approval for Larry to call Paige Tree Service about having it taken down.

Todd Folkerts was down to look at the Highland/Shaw street issues and gave his recommendations. Central asphalt gave quotes using 5" of asphalt 60 ft. from Highland on east to Paige's of $12,555.  6" would be around $13,300.  No action was taken on those quotes. Larry will work on the culvert on West Smith St by M. Neer... There are 3 bad debt utility accounts and was approved to send letters to the property owners and if no payment is received in 30 days the charges will be applied to their taxes...It was approved to direct the money from the sale of 803 S. Prairie to be held for the acquisition and removal of derelict properties...It was approved to postpone the tennis court resurfacing until the spring. Norris will do the resurfacing for the current quote of $18,089.20. Dan's tennis service in Cedar Rapids will send an estimate for painting the tennis court...  It was approved to use shingles to re-roof the volleyball court shelter house and to postpone the project until the spring... The City clerk will call Ron Bingham to see if he can do any repair to the east facing Russell sign on the Highway 34...Larry will dig in tile on part of south Highland and along the south side of Shaw Street to Clanin’s east fence after locates have been made.

Council members present were Susan Beecher, Crystal Moore, Duane Bedford, Jay Pierschbacher and Dana Blue along with Mayor Ed Scheel, and City Clerk Wendy Nickell.   Also in attendance were city employee Larry Mitchell, Police Chief Jeff Johnson, and Fire Chief Craig Alexander. Visitors were Lori Myers, Vicki Jordan, Craig Gooder and Brian Beaty.  The next meeting will be on Monday November 3 at 7 p.m.

October Calendar

Sat, Oct 18, 5-7 p.m.  Faith United Methodist Church Fall Soup Supper Homemade soups, salads and desserts. Freewill offering. Everyone is welcome.

Sun, Oct 19, 2 p.m.  Russell Sportsmen's Club, Deer gun sight-in and match

Mon, Oct 20. 5:15 p.m. Russell Museum/Library Board meeting

Thu, Oct 23, 6:30 p.m. Community Club at the Community Center

Mon, Oct 27, 1:15 p.m. Russell News meeting at the Museum, everyone welcome.

Tue, Nov 4, State wide election, be prepared when you vote.

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical Society Blog:

http://russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com.  For Lucas County information try their blog at http://lucascountygenealogy.blogspot.com.If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please e-mailmyoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402.

Around Town October 7, 2014

Around Town 

The Community Club, along with others, is planning the second annual Trunk or Treat event on the tentative date of Saturday, October 18, at the campground. Watch here for further details. 

October Calendar

Tue, Oct 7, 2 p.m. Garden Club meeting at Martha Allen's, south of Russell 

Tue, Oct 7, 6:00 p.m. American Legion/Auxiliary 

Sat, Oct 18, 5-7 p.m. Faith United Methodist Church Fall Soup Supper . Homemade soups, salads and desserts. Freewill offering. Everyone is welcome.

Sat, Oct 18, Community Club, Trunk or Treat, at Campground

Sun, Oct 19, 2 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club, Deer gun sight-in and match

Mon, Oct 20. 5:15 p.m. Russell Museum/Library Board meeting 

Thu, Oct 23, 6:30 p.m. Community Club at the Community Center 

Mon, Oct 27, 1:15 p.m. Russell News meeting at the Museum, every one welcome.

Tue, Nov 4, State wide election, be prepared when you vote.

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical Society
 Blog http://russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com/

For Lucas County information try their blog at 

http://lucascountygenealogy.blogspot.com/

If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please
 e-mail myoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402.

Around Town September 30th

   The September Garden Club meeting was held at the home of Jackie and Betty . Betty showed some pictures of the wonderful landscaping and some unique decorations on her daughter, Cathy's, property in Bella Vista Arkansas.  Russell continues to see improvements in the landscaping as another house has been removed on South Prairie St. next to Feehans. Tennis players can look forward to the resurfacing of the tennis court, courtesy of a Vredenburg grant, and work is in process to see about replacing the shelter roof at the volleyball court. The Museum/Library is also pleased to be a recipient of two new computers and a printer also awarded with a Vredenburg grant. 

   Further comments on the Fall Festival-More thank you's to the Chariton Middle Band who did a fine job in the parade, Mike Mason who splendidly handled the master of ceremonies for the parade, and to the Community Club for providing for the first, second and third place trophies for the parade.

October Calendar

Wed, Oct 1, 6:30 p.m. Night Owls will meet at Faith United Methodist Church with Ronda Harrison as hostess and giving the lesson.

Sun, Oct 5, 2 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club, Trap shoot (youth shoot free)

Mon, Oct 6, 7 p.m. Russell City Council 

Tue, Oct 7, 2 p.m. Garden Club meeting at Martha Allen's, south of Russell 

Tue, Oct 7, 6:00 p.m. American Legion/Auxiliary 

Sat, Oct 18, 5-7 p.m. Faith United Methodist Church Fall Soup Supper . Homemade soups, salads and desserts. Everyone is welcome. 

Sun, Oct 19, 2 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club, Deer gun sight-in and match

Mon, Oct 20. 5:15 p.m. Russell Museum/Library Board meeting 

Thu, Oct 23, 6:30 p.m. Community Club at the Community Center 

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical Society Blog http://russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com/

For Lucas County information try their blog at 

http://lucascountygenealogy.blogspot.com/

If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please e-mail myoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402.

Russell Fall Festival Best In Smoke BBQ Results

To the left is The Overall Grand Champion Matt Ouverson
To the right is The Overall Reserve Grand Champion Randy Kern
Photos by Jewell Martin

The Russell Fire Department had a Best in Smoke BBQ Contest on Saturday, Sept. 12 and 13.  They had seven entries.  Here are the results of the competitions.  In the Chicken category: 1st, The Wicked Pig, Matt Ouverson, Norwalk; 2nd, Outhouse Smokers, Alex and Kellie Drake, Chariton; 3rd, Wide Open BBQ, Cory Swigart and Ryan Atwell, Russell; 4th, Smokin' Mikes, Mike Sherrick, Chariton; 5th, Gothic Town Grillers, Randy Kern, Eldon; 6th, Poling's BBQ, Steve Poling, Chariton; 7th Keep It Simple BBQ, Tim and Cindy Kelly, Allerton.  In the Ribs category, The Wicked Pig, Matt Ouverson, Norwalk; 2nd, Outhouse Smokers, Alex and Kellie Drake, Chariton; 3rd, Keep It Simple BBQ, Tim and Cindy Kelly, Allerton; 4th, Gothic Town Grillers, Randy Kern, Eldon; 5th, Wide Open BBQ, Cory Swigart and Ryan Atwell, Russell; 6th, Polings BBQ, Steve Poling, Chariton; 7th, Smokin' Mikes, Mike Sherrick, Chariton.  In the Pork category: 1st, The Wicked Pig, Matt Ouverson, Norwalk; 2nd Wide Open BBQ, Cory Swigart and Ryan Atwell, Russell; 3rd, Gothic Town Grillers, Randy Kern, Eldon; 4th, Poling BBQ, Steve Poling, Chariton; 5th, Smokin' Mikes, Mike Sherrick, Chariton; 6th, Outhouse Smokers, Alex and Kellie Drake, Chariton; 7th, Keep it Simple BBQ, Tim and Cindy Kelly, Allerton.  In the Brisket category:  1st, The Wicked Pig, Matt Ouverson, Norwalk; 2nd, Gothic Town Grillers, Randy Kern, Eldon; 3rd, Smokin' Mikes, Mike Sherrick, Chariton; 4th, Outhouse Smokers, Alex and Kellie Drake, Chariton; 5th, Wide Open BBQ, Cory Swigart and Ryan Atwell, Russell; 6th, Polings BBQ, Steve Poling, Chariton; 7th, Keep it Simple BBQ, Tim and Cindy Kelly, Allerton.  In the Dessert category:  1st, Polings BBQ, Steve Poling, Chariton; 2nd, Wide Open Dessert Kings, Kinser Werts and Karin Jones, Russell; 3rd, Outhouse Smokers, Alex and Kellie Drake, Chariton.  In the overall, the Grand Champion was The Wicked Pig and they received $500 and a trophy.  The Reserve Champion was Gothic Town Grillers and they received $250 and a trophy.  3rd place went to Wide Open BBQ and 4th went to Outhouse Smokers.  5th place went to Smokin' Mikes, and 6th went to Polings BBQ.  7th place went to Keep it Simple BBQ.  In each category, 1st place received $100, 2nd place received $50 and 3rd place received $25, plus they received trophys.

Around Town September 23

Russell Fall Festival Featured Best in Smoke Competition

  On Friday, September 12, entertainment at the bandstand started the Russell 2014 Fall Festival at 8 p.m. and lasted until midnight. 

   On Saturday, the following day, the Russell Museum and Library provided a breakfast to 90 people for a free will offering from 7-9:30 a.m. People were able to start their day by enjoying biscuits and gravy, sausage, scrambled eggs, cinnamon rolls, coffee, juice and milk, along with enjoying good company before the events of the day got started.  People who had never been to the building before were surprised to find the many interesting books in the library and then even more surprised when they stepped into the past when they entered the incredible museum the Museum staff has maintained for anyone to visit and learn about Russell's past history.

   The Russell Volunteer Fire Department sponsored the "Best in Smoke" BBQ competition on Saturday.  Winners will be announced in this blog later.

   Live music was played on the bandstand from 2 p.m until 4 p.m.

 The Fall Festival Parade "Russell is Smokin' Hot" started at 4 p.m. with Marilyn and Butch Evans as Parade Marshals.

Butch and Marilyn Evans were parade marshals at
the Russell Fall Festival Parade.
Photo by Carol Swigart.

 They have been very prominent in their community.  The 1st place entry award went to Beaty Insurance, 2nd place entry to Methodist Church and 3rd place to Southside bar. 
   The car show was held from 6 p.m. to midnight.  Russell's 1st Annual "Take Pride in Your Ride Show N' Shine" brought a variety of cars, tractors, a vintage race car, lawn tractors and more.  Many participated in the parade as well.  Calling all rides:  No matter what it was, show up and show it off was held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. next to the bandstand.  Cars, trucks, tractors, motorcycles, bicycles, golf carts, hot rods.  If it had wheels and a motor it was welcome.
  The Fireman's Dinner BBQ aromas filled the area and people enjoyed the delicious food at 5 p.m. with a free will offering.

    There was a gun raffle, a Henry 30/30 Golden Boy.  Participants had to be over 18 and winners will be announced in a later blog.
   The Southside held a street dance from 9 p.m. to midnight.  It benefited the Fire Department and had music by the band "Ruination Day".
   The weather was perfect and everyone had a lot of fun.  The planners are to be commended for the good job of including a variety of activities for all ages.

photos above submitted by Carol Swigart

In the photo above to the left in the front is: Kasyn Paige, Blayne Beaty, Baylor Atwell, Back: Kinzlee Paige and Brian Beaty  with Beaty Insurance the 1st place float winners in the Russell Fall Festival.  The 2nd place winner was Faith United Methodist Church and the 3rd place winner was Southside Bar (photo by: Jewel Martin).

In the photo to the right are children: Derek Coker, Brocklynn Ruble and Mckenna Andersen, enjoying the beautiful day while watching the Russell Fall Festival Parade. (photo by: Jewel Martin).

September Calendar 

Tue, Sept 23, 3-7 p.m. Blood Drive at the Community Center, sponsored by the Community Club. Call 1-800-452-1097 to schedule a time. 

Sun, Sept 28, 2 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Ladies only handgun clinic. NRA instructors will conduct a handgun instruction clinic for ladies only at the Russell Sportsmen’s Club, 41570 280th Avenue southwest of Russell. Participants must be 14 or older. For more information or to register, call Ted at 641-340-1022. 

Mon, Sept 29, 7 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Trap shoot 

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical Society Blog Russell Iowa Historical Society

For Lucas County information try their blog at

Lucas County Genealogical Society

If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please e-mail myoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402.

Wayside Garden Club September Yard of the Month

The Russell Wayside Garden Club has chosen the Russell Baptist Church parsonage, home of Pastor and Mrs. Marshall Felderman, as the September Yard of the Month.  Their front flower beds are filled with many beautiful impatients and coleus.

Around Town September 16th

Russell City Council Mini-minutes

September 8, 2014

   Ownership changes at Harley Haven were made from Scott Jordan 100% owner to Scott Jordan 50% owner and Vicki Jordan 50% owner.

   Permission was denied to allow the street closure (Harley Haven) for their event on September 20, due to earlier music problems.

   Wendy, City Clerk, is to attend the fall Data Technologies software training session in Des Moines on Wednesday October 15.

    Approval was granted to close the street in front of the Southside all day on September 13 for the parade and street dance from 9 p.m. -12 a.m. 

   Water/ditch issues regarding Shaw St and Highland St. and others were discussed.

   Congratulations to RVFD on 3rd place finish at the state convention. The City of Russell is extremely fortunate to have such a stellar fire department keeping us safe. 

   It was approved the city paying for one Kybo and the fire department will pay for a second for the Fall Festival. Shawn Werts will be cleaning Maple and Shaw streets sometime during the week of Sept. 8-13.

   Larry is going to get several estimates on fixing the switch on the pickup and estimates for emergency lighting for the dump truck/skid loader/backhoe and to get more cold-patch to fix potholes.

   Smoke testing the sewer system was mentioned and having Larry do the work. Storm drains are in bad shape. Some clay tile drains were found that are not on the maps of the city system.

   The City of Russell received $20,000 in grant money from the Vredenburg Foundation to resurface the tennis court. Norris Asphalt bid on the project and that bid amount is good through the end of this year. Duane will seek a bid from another asphalt company before a decision is made.

    Along with posting the City Council agenda at city hall it will also be posted at the post office and bank.

    It was decided not to proceed at this time with finding funds for a generator at the community building.

    Permission was granted to move the bus stop to West Shaw St. at the bandstand. Dana will meet with the school officials to inform them of this change.

    Duane had obtained bids from Menards (shingles) and Lockridge (metal) for replacing the shelter house roof at the volleyball court. The metal roofing bid was comparable to the bid for shingles. Susan will take a copy of the metal roofing quote to Gingerich metal roofing for a bid.

    The council asks to be thinking about money-making ideas for the city. 

   There is a need for an employee handbook implemented for the city. The clerk will ask EMC insurance to see if they can assist.  Susan has an old handbook from the City of Chariton to use as a guideline. Employee reviews should be done every year. None have been implemented since the clerk or the city employee has been hired. 

     Discussion followed about the tax increase.

    Marvin Neer received a bill for mowing that was assessed to the previous owner’s taxes.  He was told charges remain with the property. The city can waive these charges. It was requested the clerk find out if there were any charges to waive the mowing charges.

    Larry brought his log-book in that he uses to document his daily work. He is requested to bring the log-book to every meeting.

    Council members in attendance were Dana Blue, Crystal Moore and Susan Beecher along with Mayor Pro Tem Duane Bedford and Wendy Nickell, city clerk.  Mayor Ed Scheel was absent as was council member Jay Pierschbacher. Others attending were City employee Larry Mitchell, Jim Neer was in attendance representing the fire department. Visitors were Ken Mumford, Dolores Carroll, Kevin Tanner, Sue Neer, Marvin Neer, Chris Knust, Brenda Knust, Becki Neer, Pat Conway, Butch Evans and Jeff Neer. The next meeting will be on Monday, October 6 at 7pm.

September  Calendar

   Sunday, September 21, 2 p.m.  Russell Sportsmen's Club .22 rifle (youth shoot free)

   Russell Sportsmen’s Club and Southern Prairie Pheasants Forever will sponsor a free .22 rimfire rifle shooting experience for youth. The activity is open to youth 3rd grade through high school.  Targets, ammunition, eye/ear protection, and safety instruction will be provided.  A limited number of .22 rifles will be available for use.  Participants may bring their own firearm if they desire.  Both optical and iron sights are acceptable.  The range is located at 41570 280th Avenue southwest of Russell.  Youth should arrive early.  Required safety instruction will start promptly at 2:00.  For more information, call Dan at 641-203-5296.

   Monday, September 22, 1:15 p.m. Russell News meeting at the Museum, new members are needed

   Tuesday, September 23, 3-7 p.m. Blood Drive at the Community Center, sponsored by the Community Club. Call 1-800-

452-1097 to schedule a time.

   Sunday, September 28 2 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Ladies only handgun clinic

   Monday, September 29, 7 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Trap shoot

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   For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical SocietyBlog http:// russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com <

   For Lucas County information try their blog at http://lucascountygeneology.blogspot.com

If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please e-mail myoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402.

Around Town September 9

Russell Fall Festival/Bestinsmoke Competition and More 

   The theme for the parade at 4 p.m on September 13 is “Russell is Smokin Hot”. There will be 1st., 2nd, and 3rd places chosen for the winners of the parade. 

   From 7-9:30 a.m. The Museum is providing a breakfast. For a free-will offering, they will provide biscuits and gravy, sausage, scrambled eggs, cinnamon rolls, coffee, juice and milk. Start the fun day visiting with old friends, check out the many books available for a donation and also all the many new books added for check-out. 

   September 12 &13, Russell Volunteer Fire Dept.'s Best in Smoke BBQ Competition Contact Shawn Werts at 641-203-3164 or russellbestinsmoke@gmail.com for rules, sign-in sheet and other information. 

   Friday- Set-up, check in. Enjoy entertainment at the Bandstand from 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 

   Saturday, Cooks are working, winners announced at 6 p.m., Car and tractor show­-12p.m. , Live band at the bandstand 2 -4 p.m. Parade- 4 p.m., Dinner with free-will offering-5 p.m.

   There will also be a gun raffle, a Henry 30/30 Golden Boy. The drawing will be on Saturday. You must be 18 to enter.

The day will also feature Russell's 1st Annual "Take Pride in Your Ride Show N' Shine". Calling all rides: No matter what it is, show up and show it off from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. next to the bandstand. Cars, trucks, tractors, motorcycles, bicycles, golf carts, hot rods. If it has wheels and a motor, we want to see it. Afterward, cruise your ride in the parade at 4 p.m. 

   The Southside Bar is planning a street dance from 9 p.m-12. It will be a benefit for the Fire Department with music by the band "Ruination Day". 

September Calendar 

   Tuesday, September 9, noon-8 p.m. Chariton School Bond election, see Chariton paper for more information. 

   Monday, September 15, 5:15 p.m. Museum Board meeting 

   Monday, September 15, 7 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Trap Shoot 

  Sunday, September 21, 2 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club .22 rifle (youth shoot free)

  Monday, September 22, 1:15 p.m. Russell News meeting at the Museum, new members are needed

  Tuesday, September 23, 3-7 p.m. Blood Drive at the Community Center, sponsored by the Community Club. Call 1-80-452-1097 to schedule a time. 

  Sunday, September 28 2 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Ladies only handgun clinic 

  Monday, September 29, 7 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Trap shoot 

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical SocietyBlog http:// russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com <

For Lucas County information try their blog at http://lucascountygeneology.blogspot.com

If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please e-mail myoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402.

Area Firefighters take Fire Truck to Africa

Area Firefighters take Fire Truck to Africa in 2014

Submitted by Bob McCurdy 

After two years, a group of Indianola and Norwalk Firefighters including Mark McCurdy of Russell, returned to Zambia, Africa to deliver a fire truck on a promise made in 2012. The fire truck was found in Alaska and made its way to Indianola. There it was updated with equipment for the truck and for the fire fighters. Many Iowa fire departments donated surplus items. The State of Iowa found several copies of fire prevention training books used in teaching the elementary students in Iowa. 

This trip is a follow-up to the 2012 visit to help the village of Katete, Zambia. This project had two major parts with this mission. One was to get the fire truck to the village and get the Iowa group of firefighters to the same spot in Lusaka, Zambia. 

To retrieve the truck, starting in Indianola the fire truck had to be transported to a shipping line. With the help of the Des Moines Truck Brokers and Luett Farms, the fire truck was taken to Jacksonville, Florida to be placed on a cargo ship to leave on April 14, 2014 to Walris Bay, Namibia on the west coast of Africa. This was helped by Worldwide Export. The next step was to get the truck to Lusaka, Zambia which is the capitol city. 

To begin their long journey the group of firemen took vehicles to Chicago to depart by plane to Washington DC, Johannesburg, South Africa and then to Lusaka, Zambia.

At Lusaka there is an airport where the firemen could meet up with the fire truck. In Lusaka the Zambia Officials welcomed both the fire truck and the firemen and sent them on the final leg of the journey to the village of Katete with the fire truck and two other vehicles.

On the trip to Katete the fire truck ran out of gas at one-thirty in the morning. The group was lucky to have more than one vehicle, one of which went ahead on a dirt road. A half hour up the road they found an African gas pump out in the open and not near any village. It was made up of a gas pump and a pole for a light, nothing else.

Once the fire truck was fueled, they continued on to Katete where they were to meet with the village manager and the mayor. The village leaders were proud to show off the new fire station that they had erected. This was a surprise and was an act faith between the two cultures that were involved. Many times in the past, foreigners had made promises to people in Africa that never happened. Also the people of the village and the nearby community showed how well they appreciated the help provided two years before. 

In the nearby village was the Saint Francis Hospital that the team visited and inspected two years ago. During the 2014 inspection they found that many of the fire safety suggestions had been acted upon, which made for a safer environment for the hospital of 350 beds that served 200,000 people with referrals from the whole Eastern Province of Zambia.

During the next week the group split up into two groups, one group taught the Katete fire fighters how the fire truck worked and helped with their training activities. The other group worked with the youngsters in schools to teach fire safety. STOP-DROP-ROLL was a part of the program and the young people enjoyed all of materials from Iowa schools that help them with fire safety.

Before the return trip the group did a re-inspection of fire safety procedures at the Hospital.

The official Hand-off Ceremony was held with Governor of The Eastern Province of Zambia, District Fire Secretary, the village manager, the mayor, and the community was in attendance to receive their new fire truck. There they held a demonstration of how the old fire truck worked and then how well the fire truck that Iowa fire fighters had just presented to Katete.

The Ministry in the capitol of Lusaka, on the way home, also invited the Iowa group back to help them in the future.

Mark has pictures and is willing to talk to groups when available. Contact him at 641-535-4302.

Around Town September 2nd

Russell Fall Festival/Bestinsmoke Competition and More 

   Saturday, September 13 from 7-9:30 a.m. The Museum is providing a breakfast. For a free-will offering, they will provide biscuits and gravy, sausage, scrambled eggs, cinnamon rolls, coffee, juice and milk. Start the fun day visiting with old friends, check out the many books available for a donation and also all the many new books added for check-out 

   September 12 &13, Russell Volunteer Fire Dept.'s Best in Smoke BBQ Competition Contact Shawn Werts at 641-203-3164 or russellbestinsmoke@gmail.com for rules, sign-in sheet and other information. 

   Friday- Set-up, check in. Enjoy entertainment at the Bandstand from 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. 

   Saturday, Cooks are working, winners announced at 6 p.m., Car and tractor show­-12p.m. , Live band at the bandstand 2 -4 p.m. Parade- 4 p.m., Dinner with free-will offering-5 p.m.

There will also be a gun raffle, a Henry 30/30 Golden Boy. The drawing will be on Saturday. You must be 18 to enter.

   The day will also feature Russell's 1st Annual "Take Pride in Your Ride Show N' Shine". Calling all rides: No matter what it is, show up and show it off from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. next to the bandstand. Cars, trucks, tractors, motorcycles, bicycles, golf carts, hot rods. If it has wheels and a motor, we want to see it. Afterward, cruise your ride in the parade at 4 p.m. 

   The Southside Bar is planning a street dance from 9 p.m-12. It will be a benefit for the Fire Department with music by the band "Ruination Day". 

September Calendar 

   Tuesday, September 2, 2 p.m. Garden Club, an outing planned by Jackie Andrews. For information call Ginger at 535-2023 or if you need a ride. New members or guests are always welcome. 

   Tuesday, September 2, 6 p.m. American Legion/Auxiliary 

  September 3 at 6:30 p.m. Night Owls at Faith United Methodist Church. Esther Harlan will be the hostess , Zelda Boldt will have the lesson.

   September 6th weekend in Grinnell, Russell Volunteer Fire Department State Convention, again we want to thank the firemen and their families, for the time they devote to making Russell a safer place.

   Sunday, September 7, 2 p.m. Faith United Methodist Church in Russell will have a Gospel Concert, silent auction and ice cream social. Please join them for a fun afternoon. 

   Sunday, September 7, 2 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club and Southern Prairie Pheasants Forever will offer a free trap shooting experience for middle school and high school youth at the Russell Sportsmen's Club range. Clay pigeons, ammo, eye/ear protection, safety instruction and shooting fundamentals will be provided. Youth model firearms will be available for use as well. Youth may bring their own firearms if desired. The range is located at 41570 280th Avenue southwest of Russell. For more information, call Dan at 641-203-5296. 

   Monday, September 8 , 7 p.m. Russell Council Meeting

 Tuesday, September 9, noon-8 p.m. Chariton School Bond election, see Chariton paper for more information. 

  Monday, September 15, 5:15 p.m. Musuem Board meeting 

  Monday, September 15, 7 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Trap Shoot 

 Sunday, September 21, 2 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club .22 rifle (youth shoot free)

 Monday, September 22, 1:15 p.m. Russell News meeting at the Museum, new members are needed

 Tuesday, September 23, 3-7 p.m. Blood Drive at the Community Center, sponsored by the Community Club. Call 1-80-452-1097 to schedule a time. 

  Sunday, September 28 2 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Ladies only handgun clinic 

  Monday, September 29, 7 p.m. Russell Sportsmen's Club Trap shoot 

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For Russell news updates try the Russell Historical SocietyBlog http:// russelliowahistoricalsociety.blogspot.com <

For Lucas County information try their blog at http://lucascountygeneology.blogspot.com

If you have comments or suggestions for this column, please e-mail myoak10@gmail.com or call 641-535-2402.