Logan Findlay, a 2024 BGM High School graduate, stands by the big Manatts rock at the company headquarters in Brooklyn. Thanks to iJAG, a job’s program offered at BGM and taught by Deb Hunt, Findlay spent his mornings during his last semester at BGM working at Manatts through a paid internship in the equipment shop. This fall, he will attend Kirkwood Community College where he will study diesel mechanics. He will then return to Brooklyn and work full-time at Manatts. “I’m glad to have the opportunity to stay local and work for a great company,” said Findlay. (Submitted photos). By J.O. Parker
Logan Findlay of rural Brooklyn will attend Kirkwood Community College in the fall to study diesel mechanics, thanks in part to Manatts’ Internal Scholarship Program, a Registered Apprentice Program through the State of Iowa and a careers class at BGM High School. Findlay, the son of Brett and Stephanie Findlay who just graduated in May, has always been interested in mechanics and working on automobiles. During his senior year at BGM, he took part in a careers program called iJAG (Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates) taught by Deb Hunt. In only its first year being offered at BGM, the program’s purpose is to help students prepare for life after high school. Iowa is one of 35 states that offers the jobs program on the high school level. The program has been available in Iowa for 25 years and in the United States since 1980. About 30 BGM high school students currently take part in the iJAG program. Students in the class learn how to complete a job application, prepare a professional resume, participate in mock interviews, take part in job shadowing opportunities and career assessments to learn where their strengths lie. Hunt invites area guest speakers to attend iJAG classes throughout the school year where they share about various jobs available at their workplaces. In the fall, Sue Esther and Adela Fragoso spoke to the iJAG students about the variety of career choices Manatts has to offer. “One of the opportunities they spoke about was a paid internship for seniors who had half day schedules,” said Hunt. It didn’t take Findlay long to realize what this internship could do for him. He was already attending Marshalltown Community College in Grinnell and an apprenticeship at Manatts was the direction he wanted to take his life. “I started out in auto mechanics (at MCC) and realized I wanted something bigger with more power,” said Findlay. He spent the second semester of his senior year as an intern in the equipment shop at Manatts. “His decision, I believe, speaks very highly of this young man’s work ethic and dedication to a goal,” said Hunt. “In January, he began working at Manatts in the mornings and finishing up his high school classes and two college classes in the afternoons,” said Hunt. “Not an easy senior semester.” “Mrs. Hunt knew I like working on vehicles and she worked on setting up the opportunity to intern at Manatts to see if it was something I liked,” noted Findlay. “She cares about her students and works hard to help them succeed.” On April 17, Findlay and his family traveled to Des Moines where he signed a Iowa Skilled Trades Letter of Intent, which states that he fully intends to promote the Skilled Trades in all aspects going forward. Hunt said that Manatts will cover the cost of Findlay’s college education, his books, tools and a tool chest. And while at Kirkwood, Findlay will work for one of Manatts’ sister companies in the Cedar Rapids area while completing his degree. Once Findlay completes the two-year diesel mechanics course at Kirkwood in May 2026, he will have earned an associate of applied science degree. He will then return to Brooklyn and work full-time as a diesel mechanic for Manatts. “We are deeply committed to fostering the next generation of skilled professionals through our partnership with Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates (iJAG),” said Brain Manatt, President of Manatts. “We look forward to witnessing the positive impact Logan will have on our team and the broader field. Together, with iJAG, we are not just building futures but also strengthening our industry for years to come.” Teaching excellence Hunt has been a teacher for 10 years. The 2023-24 school year was her first at BGM. Prior to that, she spent nine years at the alternative school in Ottumwa. Raquel Carper, a sophomore at BGM last year, took part in the iJAG program because she wanted to test the waters and learn about different jobs and programs available. “I am interested in food science and baking,” Carper said. “It’s helping me a lot. Mrs. Hunt is a great teacher.” Heidi Kirkpatrick, a junior at BGM last year, said her interests are in the healthcare field and possibly in the medical field in the military. “I completed a job shadow at UnityPoint Grinnell Regional and toured the hospital,” she said. “I also attended a special session to learn about opportunities at Grinnell College.” “These are just ideas for the students,” said Hunt of the iJAG program. “This class (iJAG) is for our future,” noted Kirkpatrick. “She (Mrs. Hunt) helps us look through and learn about all of our options,” added Carper. “I’m glad to have the opportunity to stay local and work for a great company,” said Findlay.
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Bernard the Mechanical bull will be at the 10th Annual Extreme Bull Riding Tour - Poweshiek County Fairgrounds on Saturday, July 6. If riding a bull is on your bucket list, you can cross that off without the worry of getting stepped on!
Purchase your advance tickets ($15, 5 and under are free) at the Poweshiekcountyfair.org; from a fair board member; the fair office; Wagon Wheels West; Total Choice Shipping & Printing; Brown's Show Fit, Grinnell; Halls Feed and Seed, Brooklyn; Capra Bank (People's Savings Bank), Montezuma; and First State Bank, Grinnell, Brooklyn and Lynnville. Poweshiek Iowa Development (Pow I-80) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Dan Nieland as its new executive director. With a strong background in economic development and a passion for community growth, Nieland brings fresh perspectives and a strategic vision to our organization. “We are excited to have Dan Nieland join our team,” said Brian Manatt, Chair of Poweshiek Iowa Development. “His leadership and expertise will be instrumental in driving sustainable economic growth and ensuring a brighter future for all residents.” Nieland has worked in economic development for over a decade, both in the public and private sectors. His experience includes fostering business partnerships, attracting investment, and implementing sustainable growth strategies. Nieland’s commitment to community well- being aligns perfectly with our mission to create job opportunities and enhance the quality of life in Poweshiek County. “I am incredibly excited to build on the economic foundation that Pow I-80 has built over the years,” said Nieland. “There is incredible potential in Poweshiek County to both retain, grow, and expand the business community. Many communities in Iowa would be jealous of all the things the area has to offer. I can’t wait to hit the ground running.” Nieland holds a master’s degree with an emphasis on Public Management and has previously served as a small business education specialist with Iowa State University (ISU) Extension & Outreach. In that role, he worked with small businesses throughout Iowa to start, grow, repair, and /or sell their business. He also worked for ISU Extension & Outreach in Jasper County as their community and economic development coordinator, where he planned, coordinated, and facilitated small business training and events to foster economic activity. “Nieland’s dedication to collaboration, innovation, and community engagement will undoubtedly benefit our organization and the entire county,” said Delphina Baumann, chair of the Hiring Committee. “His experience and ability to build partnerships with and across other community and economic development organizations stood out as a big plus during the hiring process.” Poweshiek Iowa Development is Poweshiek County's economic development agency. It is dedicated to fostering economic growth, innovation, and prosperity in the region by leveraging partnerships and strategic initiatives. Poweshiek Iowa Development aims to create a vibrant and sustainable economic ecosystem for businesses and residents alike. Join us on Thursday, July 4 for an afternoon of celebration.
The Grinnell on the Fourth Parade, presented by Ahrens Park Foundation, is scheduled to take place on Thursday, July 4 at 5 p.m. There is no cost to enter a float in the parade but all entries must register in advance. Those wishing to participate may fill out the entry form on the Chamber’s website or pick up a form at the Chamber office. Registrations must be completed by noon on July 3. All entries with horses must have approval from Chamber staff and make arrangements to clean up after animals. All entries subject to approval. Entries will be placed as they arrive and categorized as best as possible. Entries wanting to be next to each other should plan to arrive at the same time. The Chamber is also in search of volunteers to help organize line-up for the parade. If you are interested in helping with this year’s parade, please contact the Chamber office at 641-236-6555. Volunteers need to be on hand from 3:30 - 4:50 p.m. and will be able to leave to watch the parade. The fireworks display, managed by the City of Grinnell, will take place Thursday, July 4 at dusk at Ahrens Park, 1510 Penrose St.. Grinnell on the Fourth festivities are presented by the Ahrens Park Foundation, which is celebrating 30 years of Ahrens Park in 2024. Additional partners include the City of Grinnell, Grinnell Mutual, GreenState Credit Union, Clarity Eyecare and Windsor Manor. Jan Boelen, right, shares her thankfulness to those gathered at the Brooklyn Ruritan Building on Friday, May 31 during the presentation of the Gary Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award presented to the family by Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, middle. Dorine’s husband, Jan, is at left holding the award plaque. Jan and Dorine, owners of Bear Creek Dairy north west Brooklyn, were joined at the presentation by their children and grandchildren. As part of the presentation, the Boelen family donated $5,000 to the Brooklyn Fire Department and $2,000 to the other area fire departments who helped battle a blaze at the dairy farm in June 2023. And the recent dairy drive-thru at the dairy farm raised an additional $1,600 for area fire departments. By J.O. Parker A Brooklyn dairy farm family was recently honored with the Gary Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig presented the honor to Jan and Dorine Boelen and family, owners of Bear Creek Dairy, on Friday, May 31 at the Brooklyn Ruritan Building. Bear Creek Dairy, northwest of Brooklyn, was established in 2009 by Jan and Dorine Boelen. The dairy operation also includes son Joris and daughter-in-law Katherine Boelen, as well as son Teun and daughter-in-law Jennifer Boelen. Other family members include Dorine's father Rens Kouwenberg, daughter Dieuwertje Boelen and fiancé Johnny Phillipo, son Geert Boelen and family, and son Hessel Boelen. Jan and Dorine have five grandchildren. “Even though the Boelens are still relatively new to Iowa and the United States, they have followed a similar pattern of generations of Iowa farm families who chased their dreams, found fertile soil, settled in Iowa, and established themselves as involved members of their community,” said Secretary Naig. “Not only do the Boelens excel on their farm by taking good care of their cattle and land, but their community contributions and education efforts exemplify what it means to be a good farm neighbor.” “It’s a huge honor to be recognized with such an award,” said Dorine. “It means a lot to our family and to be recognized for our hard work.” Before moving to Iowa and starting Bear Creek Dairy, Jan and Dorine owned a 160-head dairy in the Netherlands, their native land. They embarked on a journey to move their family to America to pursue a more sustainable life. The family settled in Poweshiek County and immediately started building a new life in Iowa. When they purchased the farm, it included 234 milk cows. Over time, with the goal of making it a generational success, they have made additions to expand the operation. Today, the farm includes approximately 4,000 cattle, including 2,000 Holstein cows that are milked three times per day. In addition to the work of family members, the farm’s 20 employees help keep the operation running efficiently as they milk for 23 hours per day. The farm grows corn for silage, soybeans, and utilizes rye as a cover crop, which is seeded at the end of corn chopping season and also provides feed for the cattle. In order to produce high quality Grade A milk, which is sold to Prairie Farms, the Boelens believe strongly in ensuring a high standard of care for their cattle. The family uses innovative technologies to track health, fertility, nutrition and production. They take pride in paying close attention to detail, including regular veterinary visits, professional hoof trimming and foot baths, and incorporating sprinklers and an advanced ventilation system for cow comfort. “Bear Creek Dairy demonstrates their commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability through a number of practices,” noted a representative with the Gary Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award. “In addition to utilizing cover crops, they upcycle food waste to create a gluten byproduct in feed rations. They have added LED light utilization in barns and incorporated a plate cooler to conserve energy. Sand is recycled and reused for bedding in the barns.” Giving back to the community As part of the day’s celebration, the Boelen family presented a check for $5,000 to the Brooklyn Fire Department Chief Les Taylor and $2,000 to neighboring fire departments who helped the family after a machine shed and equipment was destroyed by fire in June 2023. Fire departments from Victor, Montezuma, Deep River, Grinnell, Hartwick, Chelsea, Malcom and Searsboro joined the Brooklyn Fire Department in battling the blaze. Firemen were on site for two – three days keeping the fire at bay. The BFD also received a $2,000 donation from 1st Interstate Bank; a $250 donation from Key Coop, a $500 donation from the Dana Company and a $500 donation from the Gordan family of Bondurant. “We are all volunteers,” said Taylor, who has been chief since January 2020 and with the BFD since March of 2007. “This is great. It will help fund our department with equipment and supplies for the volunteers.” In addition, at the annual Bear Creek Dairy drive-thru event held May 31 – June 2, $1,600 was raised through freewill offerings and that money is being donated to the eight area fire departments that helped the BFD battle the blaze. And Dorine noted that Wal-Mart donated $150 to the drive thru event and Hy-Vee donated $150 and 500 cookies to be served to guests taking the tour. In addition to the annual drive thru tour, the Boelen families are active participants in many local events such as the Brooklyn Flag Festival, community parades, Grinnell Lions Club Ag Day, Montezuma Freedom Fest, and trunk-or-treat Halloween events at Diamond Lake and St. John’s Lutheran Church. Various members of the family are active in both the Poweshiek County Farm Bureau and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation. The family also hosts farm tours, educational outreach programs and Clover Kids 4-H presentations. The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award is made possible through a partnership with the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF), The Big Show on WHO Radio, and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. Now in its 20th year, this award recognized Iowa livestock farmers who take pride in caring for the environment and their livestock while being good neighbors. It is named in memory of Gary Wergin, a long-time WHO Radio farm broadcaster who helped create the award. Brooklyn Fire Chief Les Taylor is shown holding a $5,000 check from the Boelen family and a $2,000 check from 1st Interstate Bank with representative Melina Hodzic for the work in fighting a fire at the Bear Creek Dairy in June 2023. In addition, the BFD also received a $250 donation from Key Coop, a $500 donation from the Dana Company and a $500 donation from the Gordan family of Bondurant. The Boelen family also donated $2,000 to the eight area fire departments who helped battle the blaze at the dairy farm. And the recent Bear Creek Dairy drive-thru raised an additional $1,600 that will be donated to area fire departments as well.
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