Explore2017

EXPLORE

YOUR 2017 NORTH IOWA SUMMER ACTIVITIES GUIDE

TAKING IN

THE BEST

DAY TRIPS IN NORTH IOWA TO FILL YOUR TIME, KEEP YOU BUSY

F2

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

2017 Summer

EVENTS Heritage Park Kite Day Albert Lea

May 13

Heritage Park - Steam School May 13-14

Forest City

Friday in the Forest

HWY 9

May 19 HWY 69

Tree Town Music Festival May 25-28

Winnebago Outdoor Adventure Race June 3

Tractor Pull June 3

International Festival June 10

Friday in the Forest June 16

Puckerbrush Days July 13-16

Heritage Festival July 16

Chamber Tractor Ride August 12

Friday in the Forest August 18

www.forestcityia.com

Mason City

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

PM Park Celebrating 100 years!

Play, Stay, Eat & Enjoy Great Company

TIKI BAR ENTERTAINMENT June 10th – Take Me Back 20th Anniversary starting at 4 pm Kraft Brothers, Jesse Allen Band & Trip- LA’s #1 Tribute Band June 21st – Blue Horizon Players June 30th – Old No. 5 * 7pm - Kansas City Band July 1st – Old No. 5 * 7pm - Kansas City Band July 2nd – Joe Santana - 7 pm July 3rd – Jim & Dave - 3:30 July 19th – Blue Horizon Players July 22nd – Blue Band Final Tour - 7 pm July 25th – Kraft Brothers - 7 pm July 28th – The Tree Town All Stars Band - 7 pm August 4th – Blue Band Final Tour - 7 pm August 5th - The 4th and Maben Band August 23rd – Blue Horizon Players

Lodging

Single or family style accommodations

Restaurant

e Cream, Yogurt c I & g Pi vin r z e

za

S

Open daily at 7 am - 10 pm Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner

TIKI BAR - FREE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT FULL BAR SPECIALTY DRINKS - FOOD

“You gotta try this place!”

15297 Raney Drive, Clear Lake (641) 357-1991 www.pmpark.net

F3

Clear Lake Tiki Bar

Open Mid May - Labor Day Open Daily

Open Memorial Day - Labor Day

5269 S. Shore Drive, Clear Lake (641) 357-9338

EXPLORE 2017 • TABLE OF CONTENTS Editor David Mayberry

641-421-0524 davidmayberry@globegazette.com

Advertising and Circulation Greg Wilderman

641-421-0545 greg.wilderman@globegazette.com

Content Courtney Fiorini, reporter Arian Schuessler, photo editor Chris Zoeller, photographer Explore 2017 is a specialty publication of the Globe Gazette.

Reach us at Box 271, Mason City, IA 50402-0271 or by email at news@ globegazette.com

ABATE ........................................F51 Arts & Reading .......................... F32 Band Festival ............................ F26 BBQ Bash .................................. F28 Bike trails .................................. F10 Cannonball Day .......................... F38 Charles City calendar ................F48 Clear Lake calendar .................. F44 Community special events ........ F18 County fairs ...............................F24 County parks ............................. F53 Fourth of July .............................F12 Golf courses ..............................F34 Horse events ............................. F14 Lakefest Weekend ..................... F41 Mason City calendar .................. F36 Municipal bands .........................F15 National Night Out .................... F37 Nights out in North Iowa ........... F16 State parks ................................ F57 The Surf Ballroom .................... F40 Tractor rides .............................F30 Whitewater parks ......................F50

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F5

JUNE 8, 15 & 22 • JULY 6, 13, 20 & 27 • August 3, 10, 17 & 24

More fun than ever! Things to do for all ages!

Live Entertainment & Movies in the Park every Thursday night!

LASER TAG!

MUSI

C!

FOOD!

WINE!

SHOP!

11

NIGHT OF FU S N!

The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce invites you to come downtown Clear Lake for Thursdays on Main, starting June 8th.

Lots of fun, food & shopping for all ages. Visit www.c1earlakeiowa.com for complete schedule and also Like Us On Facebook.

NORTH IOWA DAY TRIPS:

Taking in the region’s best day trip.

In Mason City, stop by The Music Man Square, The here are plenty Stockman House, The Historic of things to do in Park Inn, Central Park are the North Iowa for a short day trip, and top places to stop.

Taek in a race at Mason City the region’s towns offer a lot of enter- Motor Speedway while you’re tainment. Here are a few ideas. here.

Stroll through East Park and check out Cannonball Explore Mason City 457. Like art and history? and Clear Lake for a Charles H. MacNider Art day (or two) Museum, Kinney Pioneer Museum, Meredith Willson Each city warrants its own COURTNEY FIORINI

T

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

Boyhood Home and Prairie School Architectural Tour are the places for you.

This summer in Mason City, take in some food and music at North Iowa Band Festival, Up in Smoke BBQ Bash, North Iowa Fair and Great River City Festival.

Clear Lake has more than enough to do for a day.

Catch a show at the historic Surf Ballroom or just stop in for a tour to browse the music memorabilia.

Tan by Clear Lake or take a boat tour with Lady of the Lake on the water. The Lake Theater is a great place to watch a movie.

The Iowa Trolley Park Railroad Museum, Buddy Holly Crash Site, Clear Lake Arts Center, Clear Lake Fire Museum and more are good for all ages.

The Fourth of July and Blues, Bikes and BBQ are great summer festivals with entertainment and more.

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

Above: The Music Man Square docent Ken Shadle walks through the empty streetscape of the 14-year-old building Oct. 8, 2016, in Mason City.

CHRIS ZOELLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Left: A fairgoer is silhouetted while watching the Ferris wheel at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines.

PUCKERBRUSH DAYS 2017 JULY 13-16 FOREST CITY, IA

ASSOCIATED PRESS

North: Northwood and Lake Mills

Lake Mills will have July Jubilee this summer as well.

In Northwood, stop in for a drink at Worth Brewing Company and then take a stroll down Historic Main Street.

Browse the Historical Society Museums.

Drive out to Lake Mills to see the 1901 Victorian House & Gardens, the “Promise of America” sculpture resting in a natural prairie, and unique downtown businesses.

Try your luck at Diamond Jo Casino before you leave.

Northwood also boasts a Fourth of July Celebration and Founders Day this summer.

South: Hampton, Belmond and Lake Cornelia Take a short drive to Hampton for good food and craft beer. Check out Memorial Hall, a Civil War monument on the National Historic Register. Stop by the Franklin County Historic Museum, and Franklin County Courthouse, which is on the National Historic Register. continued on PAGE F8

Battle of the Businesses Bags Tournament Parade FREE Live Music Fireworks Bill Riley Talent Show Sand Volleyball Tournament For more info, including a full schedule, find us on Facebook, or visit us at www.forestcityia.com Paddler’s Tap Boyken Insurance Ay Jalisco CR Holland Crane

F7

F8

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

Summerfest/Car Show, Tuesday on the Town and the Franklin County Fair will be held this summer.

Head to the Belmond Museum, Outdoor Classroom, The Children’s Garden and then take in a film at The New Lyric Theater.

Belmond also has a Fourth of July parade.

Above: Jeff Sisson, far right, takes participants in the Cedar River Spinners Photography and Film Camp on a tour of downtown Charles City.

MARY PIEPER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

bration.

For another day, try Osage and St. Ansgar.

In St. Ansgar, check out the Veteran’s Memorial Park, Freedom Rock and First LuEast: Charles City, theran Church, the oldest LuSt. Ansgar and Osage theran Church in continuous use west of the Mississippi Take a day in Charles City River which is on the National along the Cedar River.

ARIAN SCHUESSLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE Registry of Historic Places.

Central Park-North Main The Sherman Nursery office building, which was completed in 1906, Each summer the town Street Historic District, Cook hosts Oatmeal Days and the Farm, A.B.C. Dodd House, Dr. is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Herb Festival.

Salsbury’s Laboratories, Main Mitchell County Historical buildings.

Alvin Miller House, Charles Office and Production LaboTry your luck on the white- Society has many historic Henry Parr House, Sherman ratory Building and more are items to view. In the evening, water course at Charles City Nursery Company Historic registered historic places. take in a film at the Watts TheWhitewater.

Floyd County Court House, District, Spotts Round Barn ater in Osage.

The city hosts the Charles and Wildwood Park Historic Charles Walter Hart House, Osage hosts Independence City Challenge whitewater Lucius and Maria Clinton Lane District are worth taking a event and Fourth of July Cele- Day Parade and BRAM. look at for a tour of historic House, Main Street Bridge,

West: Forest City and Britt In Forest City, check out Heritage Park and Pilot Knob State Park located a few miles east for a hike.

The city brings in Tree Town Music Festival and Puckerbrush for the summer.

Drive down to Britt for the National Hobo Museum, Armstrong House, Ag Museum, Veterans Memorial park and painted rock.

This summer Britt will have Hobo Days, Britt Draft Horse Show and the Hancock County Fair.

Go a little further

The location between Des Moines and Minneapolis gives North Iowa residents an opportunity to enjoy big-city entertainment, shopping and more.

It’s a short drive on Interstate 35 south to Des Moines and the Wells Fargo Arena for concerts, events or and Iowa Wild hockey game. The state capitol also hosts the Iowa State Fair.

Heading north, North Iowa residents can take in professional sports with the Minnesota Twins or Vikings, or get lost at Mall of America.

For art lovers, the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis is one of the five largest modern art museums in the country.

Above: Ciaran Holmes, 3, checks out the dirt on his hand while Jerry Holmes operates a steam engine during the Steam Threshing Festival at Heritage Park of North Iowa.

Left: John Bowman of the Hancock County Historical Society asks the West Hancock fourth graders to guess how much it cost to build the Larson Armstrong House.

ALLISON ULLMANN PHOTOS, THE SUMMIT

NORTH IOW IOWA FAIR JULY 19TH-23RD! FREE Carnival Rides!

Hot Air Balloon Rally!

Crystal Bowersox Live in Concert! $20 Helicopter Rides!

Small Stage Music Festival!

And Much Much More!!!

3700 4th St. SW, Mason City • 641-423-3811 www.NorthIowaEventsCenter.org

Charles H. MacNider Art Museum 303 2nd St SE • Mason City, IA • 641-421-3666 • www.macniderart.org

* Outstanding American Art Collection * Studio Classes for Children and Adults * Puppets by World-Famous Puppeteer Bil Baird

F10

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

CHRIS ZOELLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Riders in the Category 4 men’s race compete during the annual Bicycle, Blues & BBQ Festival in Clear Lake.

Momentum for cycling continues in North Iowa COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

ARIAN SCHUESSLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

From left, Matthew Jensen, Michael McCullough and Andrew Lein, all of Mason City, cycle on a paved trail between Mason City and Clear Lake.

CLEAR LAKE — Cycling is gaining momentum in North Iowa with trails and events for all riders.

Bicycle, Blues and BBQ is the biggest bike event in North Iowa and will run July 7-9.

What started as a bike race event turned into an event for everyone with blues festival music, great food and craft beer.

The event has grown significantly. Organizers expect between 7,000 and 8,000 people this year. Last year, more than

$50,000 in cash purses was given.

Entertainment this year includes Brian Naughton Band, Rachelle Coba and the Joe Moss Band. There will also be a Blues Guitar Workshop. Even those who aren’t in to racing can participate in rides across North Iowa.

RAGBRAI will have several stops in North Iowa this year.

Algona, Wesley, Hutchins, Britt, Garner, Ventura and Clear Lake are on the list of towns for Day 3 of the ride.

From Clear Lake, the cyclists will travel to Thornton, passing

Cycling in North Iowa JUNE 3 — North Iowa’s Gran Fondo, Clear Lake; 14-, 30- and 60-mile loops.

JULY 7-9 — Bicycle Blues and BBQ, Clear Lake.

JULY 23-29— RAGBRAI through Swaledale, Rockwell, Cartersville and Rockford before ending in Charles City for Day 4.

With more communities adding bike paths, more cyclists are out and about.

“The infrastructure in Mason City and Clear Lake is a safer environment for cyclists,” said Tim Putnam, organizer for Clear Lake’s Bicycle Blues and BBQ. “It’s encouraging them to come out and enjoy.”

Mason City has been working on increasing bicycle/ pedestrian trails throughout the city.

The city plans to buy 5 miles of abandoned rail line to create a bicycle trail in one of Mason City’s more scenic areas. The High Line Bike Trail would run north and south through the city, connecting to the south with the trail leading to Clear Lake and to the north with Lime Creek Nature Center and its multi-use trails.

Lake Mills is in the process of connecting its recreation trail system. The current system is a combination of recreation trail, FILE safe routes to school, paths and the intra-city sidewalk system. The American flag flies outside the fire station in Clear Lake while RAGBRAI riders fill up their water When complete, it will cover bottles at its filling station while passing through in 2014. The city, which was a RAGBRAI overnight stop almost four miles. in 2010, will be a stop on the 2017 route.

The Only Men’s & Women’s Store You’ll Ever Need!

MEN’S

Tommy Bahama Vineyard Vines Peter Millar Mizzen & Main Hardwick Clothing Southern Tide Hart Schaffner Marx Mason City, Iowa

South Federal Ave., Mason City (641) 423-5222

WOMEN’S

Karen Kane Foxcroft Krimson Klover Joseph Ribkoff Conrad C Johnston & Murphy Shoes Kut from the Kloth Denim

Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 9:30 - 5:30 p.m. • Thursday 9:30 - 8:00 p.m. • Saturday 9:30 -5:00 p.m.

www.moormanclothiers.com

Ames, Iowa

226 Main St., Ames (515) 232-3261

ARIAN SCHUESSLER PHOTOS, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Clear Lake, Mason City plan for huge Fourth of July crowds COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

The annual Clear Lake July Fourth celebration includes a parade, midway in City Park, live music and fireworks.

CLEAR LAKE — Fourth of July weekend pulls in a huge crowd in Clear Lake.

This year, the week’s festivities will begin Thursday, June 29, and continue through Tuesday, July 4.

The six days of activities include amusement rides, bingo and open-air craft show and live music every night in the band shell at City Park.

On Independence Day, spectators can take in a traditional parade down Main Avenue and evening fireworks over the lake.

The fireworks musical tribute can be heard on some local radio stations at 10 p.m.

In Mason City, the annual fireworks display is held on July 3 at the Mohawk Football Stadium at the high school.

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F13

Mason City Since 1981 the Mason City Exchange Club has provided the annual Independence Day fireworks show at Mohawk Stadium.

The event is held on July 3 each year so area residents and visitors can attend both the Mason City and the Clear Lake displays.

Gates to the stadium open at 6 p.m. The Mason City Municipal Band entertains starting at 9 p.m. Fireworks display begins at 10 p.m.

Free admission, freewill offering accepted.

Clear Lake’s July 4th THURSDAY, JUNE 29 5 p.m. — Evans United Shows Carnival opens.

SATURDAY, JULY 1 10 a.m.-9 p.m. — Arts & Craft Fair.

5-9 p.m. — Arts & Craft Fair.

Noon — Evans United Shows Carnival opens.

7 p.m. — Live music in the band shell featuring Crossfire, classic rock.

FRIDAY, JUNE 30 10 a.m.-9 p.m. — Arts & Craft Fair.

Noon — Evans United Shows Carnival opens. Noon to 5 p.m. will be $17 for Wrist Band Day. Noon — Bingo tent opens.

7 p.m. — Live music in the band shell featuring The Punching Pandas.

Noon — Bingo tent opens.

7 p.m. — Live music in the band shell featuring Arch Allies, a Styx, Journey & REO Speedwagon Tribute Band.

SUNDAY, JULY 2 11 a.m.-5 p.m. — Arts & Craft Fair.

Noon — Evans United Shows Carnival opens. Noon to 5 p.m. will be $17 for Wrist Band Day.

Noon — Bingo tent opens.

TUESDAY, JULY 4 10 a.m. — Parade

Family Fun Day Events: 1 p.m. — Family Feud Game Show 11 a.m.-5 p.m. — Arts & Craft Fair.

3 p.m. — Family Fun Time Games Noon — Evans United Shows 7 p.m. — Live music in the band Carnival opens. shell featuring StraitRun Band.

Noon — Bingo tent opens.

MONDAY, JULY 3 1:30-3:30 p.m. — Denny’s School 10 a.m.-9 p.m. — Arts & Craft of Dance.

Fair.

Noon — Evans United Shows Carnival opens.

8:30-10 p.m. — Clear Lake Municipal Band.

Noon — Bingo tent opens.

10 p.m. — Fireworks over the lake.

7 p.m. — Live music in the band shell featuring The Hepperly Band.

TIRES SERVICE DEPENDABILIT Y Complimentary Beverages • Courtesy Shuttle Service • Early Bird Drop - Off • Fluids & Tire Air Fill w/Any Service • Goodyear Credit Card • National Accounts Welcome TIRE & SERVICE STORE NEXT DOOR MS-SPAD110419_075911_0

Visit Your Friends at Graham Tire Today!

Ag & Commercial Downtown 1501 S Taft Ave • 641.201.1751 130 1st ST NW • 641.423.1933

F14

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

CHRIS ZOELLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Dan Urban of Elkhorn, Nebraska, competes with his horse Cornelius on Thursday in the jumper class of the Midstates Spring Show at the North Iowa Events Center in Mason City.

New Algona event adds to North Iowa horse show calendar MOLLY MONTAG

molly.montag@globegazette.com

ALGONA — A new added-money barrel race will collect canned goods for the Kossuth County Food Pantry this year.

The Cans for a Cause barrel race will be held Aug. 19 at the Kossuth County Fairgrounds, 700 Fair St., Algona.

Warm-ups start at 5 p.m., followed by open arena from 6:306:45 p.m.

Open division starts at 7 p.m.

Entry fees

are $30 for the Open division, $20 for Youth and $10 for the spouse race.

The spouse race is open to the husbands, fathers, mothers, boyfriends and girlfriends of participating barrel racers.

It is restricted to those who do not compete in barrel racing.

Riders who bring three non-expired canned goods will receive a free warm-up run.

The added-money total will be announced before the event.

For details, call 712-298-2528.

North Iowa Events Center, Mason City June 7-11 — Midstates Summerfest hunter/jumper show.

June 13-17 — Midstates Summer hunter/jumper show

Aug. 5-6 — Dressage show.

Sept. 9-10 — Dressage show.

Sept. 13-17 — Midstates Fall hunter/jumper show

Open Riding June 19-21 — Midstates Encore Saddle clubs around North hunter/jumper show.

Iowa host regular open riding sessions at the North Iowa June 23-25 — Dressage show.

Events Center in Mason City.

July 9 — Horsemen of Iowa’s This year’s dates include June North Iowa Saddle Club Open 6, June 27, June 28, July 5, July Show.

10, July 11, July 25, Aug. 1 and July 23 — Horsemen of Iowa Aug. 8.

Youth Fun Show.

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F17

Don’t be left out... Sign up for our EVENTS NEWSLETTER Stay up-to-date and get Mason City events delivered right to your inbox!

Sign Up Online at

www.VisitMasonCityIowa.com CHRIS ZOELLER PHOTOS, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Children jump inside one of the bouncy houses provided by Hoppy Go Lucky Friday during the first Friday Night Live event of the summer in downtown Mason City.

June 22 — 6:30 p.m. special entertainment, 7-9 p.m. live music, 9 p.m. movie.

July 6 — 6:30 p.m. special entertainment, 7-9 p.m. live music, 9 p.m. movie.

July 13 — 6:30 p.m. special entertainment, 7-9 p.m. live music, 9 p.m. movie.

July 20 — 6:30 p.m. special entertainment, 7-9 p.m. live music, 9 p.m. movie.

July 27 — 6:30 p.m. special entertainment, 7-9 p.m. live music, 9 p.m. movie.

Aug. 3 — 6:30 p.m. special entertainment, 7-9 p.m. live music, 9 p.m. movie.

Aug. 10 — 6:30 p.m. special entertainment, 7-9 p.m. live music, 9 p.m. movie.

Aug. 17 — 6:30 p.m. special entertainment, 7-9 p.m. live music, 9 p.m. movie.

Aug. 24 — 6:30 p.m. special entertainment, 7-9 p.m. live music, 9 p.m. movie.

CHARLES CITY PARTY IN THE PARK

Music and children’s activities from 5-9 p.m. select Fridays in Central Park.

May 26 — Chocolate Crackers and Coyote Wild.

June 9 — Redline.

June 23 — Dueling Pianos.

July 14 — Milk & Honey.

Aug. 4 — Endless Summer.

OSAGE FRIDAY NIGHT OUT

The event will run from 5:3010 p.m. on select Friday nights in City Park.

Food vendors open at 5:30 p.m.

Children’s activities and games are free.

June 16 — Jesse Allen.

June 30 — Trouble Shooters.

July 8 — TBA. July 14 — Spenser Rahm.

July 28 — Hwy 9.

August 11 — Kids night. Entertainment TBA.

ALGONA PARTY IN THE PARK

Live music and food one Friday a month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on the Carnegie Library lawn.

This year’s events also include “salutes,” or themed equipment displays honoring part of the community.

June 22 —Big Top Algona July 20 — Bike Oasis—A “Wheely” Good Time August 17 — A Salute To Those Who Serve

May 18 th-June 16 th Join us as we celebrate 30 Days of Fun with a social media photo contest!

Connect with us on

FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM!

ENTER YOUR PHOTOS FOR A CHANCE TO WIN! Find contest rules and information at

www.VisitMasonCityI www.VisitMasonCityIowa.com yIo

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F15

Municipal bands provide plenty of idyllic evenings COURTNEY FIORINI

Thursday, June 8 — 7:30 p.m.

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

Saturday, June 10 — 4 p.m., MacNider Art Museum for MacNider Arts Festival

North Iowa is known for its love of music — from the legacy of The Music Man Meredith Willson, to the annual North Iowa Band Festival, to numerous award-winning high school bands, choirs, choruses and orchestras.

Perhaps nothing fits the iconic image of an idyllic musical evening as does the summer municipal band concert.

Players from all walks of life — but all united by a love of and a proficiency for band music — gather on pleasant summer evenings or weekends to perform for their fellow community residents an eclectic selection of old standards, rousing marches and even new pop hits.

Here is a schedule of community bands that will be performing this summer in North Iowa.

Mason City Municipal Band

Concerts will be at the plaza north of Southbridge Mall unless otherwise listed.

Friday, May 26 — 6:30 p.m., North Iowa Band Festival Thursday, June 1 — 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 15 — 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 22 — 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 29 — 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, July 3 — 9 p.m., Mohawk Stadium for Mason City Exchange Club Independence Day Celebration Thursday, July 6 — 7:30 p.m.

Clear Lake Municipal Band

All concerts at City Park.

Saturday, June 10 — 7 p.m.

Sunday, June 11 — 3 p.m.

Saturday, June 24 — 7 p.m.

Sunday, June 25 — 3 p.m.

Tuesday, July 4 — 8 p.m.

FILE PHOTO

Sunday, July 9 — 3 p.m.

The Clear Lake Municipal Band plays a concert on a warm Sunday summer afternoon.

Saturday, July 15 — 7 p.m.

Tuesday, June 6 — 8 p.m.

Sunday, July 16 — 3 p.m.

Tuesday, June 13 — 8 p.m.

Charles City Municipal Band

Tuesday, June 20 — 8 p.m.

Concerts in Central Park unless otherwise noted.

Tuesday, June 27 — 8 p.m.

Sunday, June 4 — 7:30 p.m.

Concerts at the band shell in Hampton City Park.

Monday, July 3 — 8 p.m., Franklin County Fairgrounds

Sunday, June 18 — 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, May 31 — 8 p.m.

Tuesday, July 11 — 8 p.m.

Hampton Municipal Band

Tuesday, July 4 — 7:30 p.m., behind Charles City Public Library.

Explore Our Stores

Women’s & Men’s Fabulous Boutique Fashions, Shoes, Jewelry, Uniforms and Tuxedos!

Emerson’s at the Willow

The Willow Branch

In Willowbrook Mall, Mason City 641-424-7060 www.emersonsatthewillow.com

In Willowbrook Mall, Mason City 641-424-7060

Emerson’s by the Lake

Emerson’s on Main

308 Main Ave., Clear Lake 641-357-4467 www.emersonsbythelake.com

632 Main St., Osage 641-732-3582 www.emersonsonmain.com

SCULPTURES MADE OF WOODEN MATCHSTICKS. April 1 thru Nov. 30 Open 7 days a week from 1-5 pm 319 2nd Street, Gladbrook, IA www.matchstickmarvels.com

F16

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

CHRIS ZOELLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

An audience member hula hoops as Farm Rock performs Friday during the first Friday Night Live event of the summer in downtown Mason City.

Nights out in North Iowa feature music, food, movies COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

Folks looking to stretch their dollars during a fun night out can explore six North Iowa communities that host free events throughout the summer.

Events include something for everyone: live music, food and movies.

MASON CITY FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE

July 28 — 6-10 p.m.

August 18 — 6-10 p.m.

Sept. 15 — 6-10 p.m.

CLEAR LAKE THURSDAYS ON MAIN

Full roster of activities varies each Thursday, but the lineup always includes music, a movie in City Park and special entertainment at the 300 block of Main Street.

June 8 — 6:30 p.m. special enMusic, food and fun activities the tertainment, 7-9 p.m. live music, 9 p.m. movie.

AARON THOMAS, THE GLOBE GAZETTE third Friday of the month in June, July and August in Mason City’s June 15 — 6:30 p.m. special enDan Anderson of Swaledale talks with Larry Welch of Mason City Central Park. about his automotive creation, a 1930s paddy wagon, during Clear tertainment, 7-9 p.m. live music, June 16 — 6-10 p.m.

Lake’s Thursdays on Main festivities.

9 p.m. movie.

F18

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

FILE PHOTO

Lucas Lienemann of Dows, (left) and Will Weidemann of Clarion, put corn in cooking baskets during Corn Days in Dows.

Annual events fill summer for North Iowa’s small towns COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

If you’re looking for something to do this summer, look no further than the annual events in North Iowa communities.

Whether it’s Summerfest in Hampton or Oatmeal Day in St. Ansgar, there’s something just about every weekend.

Here’s a rundown of the events by city:

ACKLEY: The 114th Sauerkraut Days will be June 7-8. The event celebrates the community’s settlers and began as a gathering of German farmers who were drawn together by one meal — franks and kraut. The celebration includes a parade, carnival rides, the Sauerkraut Queen ceremony, entertainment, fireworks, beverage garden, live bands at night and of course, free franks and sauerkraut.

ALGONA: This community has two annual events — Founder’s Day and ABATE Freedom Rally: The ABATE Freedom Rally is June 29-July 1. The motorcycle rally usually attracts more than 10,000 people and includes live bands, food and merchandise vendors. Visit abateiowafreedomrally.com for more information.

Founder’s Day will be July

6-9. It includes trolley tours, food vendors, children’s activities, inflatables, a talent show, craft show, live entertainment and a free street dance. Visit www.algona.org/founders_day for more information.

ALLISON: Wilder Days will be June 2-3. The community celebration includes a parade, games, carnival and other activities.

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F19

A good crowd was on hand in Grafton to watch the 2014 Turkey Days parade.

GLOBE GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

BELMOND: This community has two annual summer events: Kites Over the Prairie will be June 3 and feature kites of all sizes and food.

Prairie Homestead Antique Power & Craft Show will be Aug. 18-20. The event includes antique tractors and a craft show. This year will also include the 2015 National Plowing Contest.

For more information about both events, visit belmondartscenter.org.

CRYSTAL LAKE: Bullhead Days will be July 1-4. It will include a parade, craft show, fireworks, tournaments and children’s activities.

bake sale, a tractor ride, a motorcycle ride, kids’ games and entertainment, bingo, a beanbag toss, parade and other entertainment.

FERTILE: Fertile Days will be Aug. 12-13. The celebration includes children’s activities, a parade, flea market, community meal and other activities.

GARNER: Days will be July 7-8. The celebration is dedicated to Fred and August Duesenberg, who began their first bicycle shop on Main Street in Garner.

It includes activities such as a parade, craft show, inflatables, community meals and entertainment. For more information visit garneriachamber.com.

DOWS: Corn Days will be Aug. GRAFTON: Turkey Day will be 4-6. The event includes a parade, sweet corn feed, entertainment, July 15. A variety of turkey will be inflatables, petting zoo and other available including grilled turkey, turkey drumsticks and smoked activities. turkey. Other activities include a parade, musical entertainment, DUMONT: Sandbaggin’ Day sports tournaments and a street will be July 8. In past years, the event has included garage sales, dance. a home business expo, United Methodist Church breakfast and continued on PAGE F20

JUNE 10, 2017 · 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM FREE ADMISSION · FAMILY FUN

Come join us for a celebration of global heritage, food, music, dance, art, and games for all ages!

More information, including a full schedule, can be found on our Facebook page, or by visiting www.heritageparkofnorthiowa.com.

F20

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

JEFF HEINZ, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Kyle Tabbert and Sandi Duvall help make turkey sandwiches for Grafton’s 2014 Turkey Days celebration.

GREENE: River Days will be June 16-17. The annual event celebrates the Shell Rock River which runs through the community. It usually includes live entertainment, inflatables, food vendors, parade, children’s activities and a beer garden.

HAMPTON: Summerfest will be Aug. 25-26 and includes inflatables, live entertainment, vendors, a car cruise and other activities.

beer garden and more.

LAKE MILLS: July Jubilee will be July 7-9 and usually includes a parade Saturday morning, community picnic, vendors, entertainment in the park, children’s games and street dances Friday and Saturday night.

MANLY: Railroad Ag Day will be Aug. 26. In past years the celebration has included a parade, train ride, inflatables, contests, games, food, vendors and live entertainment.

HANLONTOWN: Sundown Day celebrates summer solstice.

NASHUA: Water Over the The event will be June 18 and 21, and typically includes a kids trac- Dam Days will be June 22-25.

Past years included a parade, tor pull and lunch in the park. golf tournament, mud run, zip line, beer tent, pedal push KANAWHA: The city’s big tractor pull, meals and music.

Labor Day celebration will be For more information visit waSept. 4. It usually includes a teroverthedamdays.com. parade, pedal tractor pull, food stand and other entertainment.

NORA SPRINGS: Buffalo Days and Firemen’s Ball will be KLEMME: Ag Days will be June 24-25. The event usually inJune 16-18. The event usually cludes buffalo meal, parade and includes live music, children’s activities, a parade, street dance, other activities.

JIM CROSS, OF THE PRESS-NEWS

Alex Patterson was crowned Miss St. Ansgar 2015 during St. Ansgar’s annual Oatmeal Day held on Saturday, June 20. Other candidates included Britany White (left) and Morgan Branstad (right) OSAGE: Bike Ride Around Mitchell County, or BRAM, will be June 24. The event will include a countryside ride that will feature the flavors of food prepared in Mitchell County. For more

information visit osagechamber. com.

ROCK FALLS: Rock Falls Fun Day will be Aug. 19. Past years included a softball tournament,

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

Jasper Brophy greets a tractor in the 2015 parade at Fertile Days.

FILE PHOTOS, THE SUMMIT

bean bag toss tournament, kids’ activities, a community dinner and entertainment.

ROCKFORD: Rockford Fun Day will be July 14. It typically includes a parade, children’s activities/games and activities for adults.

ROCKWELL: This community has two annual summer events: The annual Kicken’ & Chicken Weekend will be Aug. 4-6. It includes a rodeo, softball tournament, chicken dinner, street dance, live music, motorcycle fun run and car show.

The National Truck and Tractor Pull will be July 8-9.

ST. ANSGAR: This community has three summer events: Oatmeal Day (former Town and Country Day) will be June 17.

It will include a 2x4 Bike Ride, 5K Color Walk/Run, Fun on 4th Street, sidewalk sales and a parade.

St. Ansgar will also host an Herb Festival on July 15. The

downtown event includes herbs and herbal bake goods for sale, vendors, lectures, tours, children’s workshops, Pedal Tractor Show and Dinosaur Park.

St. Ansgar’s Fall Festival will be Sept. 9 and include food, games and vendors.

SHEFFIELD: People in the Park (formerly Sourdough Days and Octoberfest) will be Aug. 19. Last year’s event included a parade, omelet breakfast, garden tractor pull, activities in the park, live music, food and fireworks.

STACYVILLE: Bratwurst Daze will be July 29. The event includes children’s games, adult games such as basketball and bean bag toss, grilled bratwurst, live music, a dance and parade.

TITONKA: Indian Days will be June 23-26. The event includes parade, community meal, games, inflatables, street dance and Bill Riley Talent Show.

F21

DEB NICKLAY, MITCHELL COUNTY PRESS-NEWS

Participants in the 2014 Stacyville Bratwurst Daze parade.

F22

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

Invites you to visit our Chamber Members and our Chamber Events Omelet Breakfast Race Day on Main Outdoor Movie Sunday Funday Chillin w/ the Chamber Treats on the Streets Great Pumpkin Contest Harvest Hoedown Frozen Frolic Visit our Facebook page for more information about the Britt & Chamber Events

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

Accountant Renner & Birchem Accounting PC Advertising/Newspapers/Radio Britt News Tribune KIOW Radio Attorneys Earl Hill Law Office Fenchel, Doster & Buck Siegrist & Jones PC Automotive Allen Auto & Tire Britt Auto Service Pritchard Auto Co Trulson Auto Parts Banks Farmer’s Trust & Savings Bank First State Bank Beauty Shops Beauty Bar Salon & Boutique Imagemaker Mayne Salon City /County Allies for Substance Abuse Prevention BIDCO City of Britt Britt Public Library HCEDC Hancock County Extension & Outreach Clothing & Accessories The Cobbler Shoppe Gifts Sew Sweet Communications Communications 1 Network, Inc Computers/Accessories Chipman Computer Service Heath’s Computer Repair LLC Convenience Store Casey’s General Store Distributors/Manufacturers Doll Distributing LLC Michael Foods Miller & Sons Golf Cars National Purity LLC Original Saw Company Sparboe Farms, Inc. Unicover, Inc.

Emergency Services Air Evac Lifeteam Britt Fire Department West Hancock Ambulance Service Entertainment Britt Aquatic Center Britt Country Club Hancock County Speedway Mojo Productions-Jared Wingert Sidetrack Lanes Titanium DJ Service-Damon Baker Farm Services Barnes Equipment LLC Britt Seed Company Maxyield Cooperative New Horizon Cooperative Scott Johnson Drainage Sents Seeds & Services Pioneer Thilges Sales, Inc.-Syngenta Seed Floral Shop Flower Cart Funeral Homes Cataldo Funeral Home Inc. Ewing Funeral Services Gas/Electric Alliant Energy Grocery Britt Food Center Hardware Swenson’s Hardware

F23

Individuals Curt & Kristi Gast Gary Gelner Gene Guenther John B. & Linda Johnson Roger Jacobson Insurance Britt-Woden Insurance Central Financial Group-Klein Insurance Insurance & Financial Solutions-Padderud State Farm Insurance Organizations/Associations Britt Area Food Bank Britt Draft Horse Show Association Britt Girl Scouts BRITT Group Britt Lions Club Hancock County Farm Bureau Hancock County Learning Center Hobo Foundation Ron Eisenman Memorial BBQ Real Estate Diemer Realty LLC Kelly Real Estate Restaurants/Lounge Heartland Diner Hillside Golf & Dining J & D Hob Nob La Guadalupana Mary Jo’s Hobo House Red Rooster Bar & Grill Titanium Lunchbox Schools NIACC West Hancock Comm. School District

Healthcare Britt Chiropractic Dental Center of North Iowa Elizabeth’s Pharmacy on Main Family Eye Care Center Hancock County Health System Summit House Assisted Living Co. Westview Care Center-ABCM Corp.

Small Businesses Big Brad’s BBQ Critter’s Closet Dan Doughan Trucking Hiscocks Enterprises LLC Hiscocks Excavating JAKS Puppies Lynn’s Farm Inc. Mike Muth Welding Small Time Enterprises-Vince Perry

Home Improvement Bauer Seamless Gutters North Iowa Lumber & Design, Inc.

Veterinary Britt Veterinary Clinic

F24

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

County fairs offer range of entertainment

The Midway on a summer night — from the 2014 Mitchell County Fair.

COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

North Iowa county fairs will host a wide range of top entertainment this season from country to 80s rock as well as standard fair fun with 4-H, FFA and open competitions, shows, displays, games and more.

The fairs run from June to September for a long summer fun.

The North Iowa Fair will hold its second hot air balloon rally after last year’s success.

Franklin County will host country music star Gary Allan, while Butler County brings Tracy Lawrence and Joe Diffie.

Area county fairs and the

Iowa State Fair are listed in calendar order: Worth County Fair — Northwood, June 14-18. Tractor pull, food, amusement rides and entertainment.

Butler County Fair — Allison, June 21-25. Tracy Lawrence with Tucker Beathard, Joe Diffie, parade, chuckwagon races and more.

Wright County Fair — Eagle Grove, July 12-17. Amusement rides.

Franklin County Fair — Hampton, July 19-23. Gary Allan, Sammy Kershaw, the Bellamy Brothers and Hairball.

2017 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Unless otherwise noted, USRA weekly racing series features • Budweiser USRA Modifieds, USRA Stock Cars, USRA Bmods, USRA Hobby Stocks and Rookies Rockin’ USRA Tuners Sunday, April 30th Test and Tune 5-8 pm Sunday, May 7th USRA Weekly Racing Series Sunday, May 14th USRA Weekly Racing Series Sunday, May 21st USRA Weekly Racing Series Sunday, May 28th NO RACES Sunday, June 4th USRA Weekly Racing Series

START YOUR ENGINES!!

Sunday, June 11th Budweiser USMTS Modifieds by Diamond Jo Casino and USRA Weekly Racing Series.

Sunday, June 18th Father’s Day Specials Coors Light Twin 25’s for Stock Cars and Bmods Miller Lite Special for Hobby Stocks and Tuners Brought to you by United Beverage Sunday, June 25th Sunday, July 2nd Sunday, July 9th Sunday, July 16th

USRA Weekly Racing Series NO RACES USRA Weekly Racing Series USRA Weekly Racing Series

North Iowa Fair Week By Wednesday, July 19th Corn Belt Clash Late Models Ted Zieman Memorial by Pabst Blue Ribbon Thursday, July 20th TBA Friday, July 21st Demo Derby Saturday, July 22nd MPI Truck & Tractor Pull Sunday, July 23rd USRA Weekly Racing Series Sunday, July 30th Budweiser ASCS Sprint cars

by AUTO Plus and USRA Weekly Racing Series (no modifieds) Sunday, August 6th USRA Weekly Racing Series Sunday, August 13th Budweiser USMTS Modifieds Hunt for the Cup and USRA Weekly Racing Series Sunday, August 20th USRA Weekly Racing Series Sunday, August 27th Season Championship.

September 15th & 16th Vintage Race Car Nationals September 29th & 30th 5 Star Classic

Winter events in the works are 2 indoor Go Cart events and a snowmobile weekend of races

USRA Weekly Show

TICKETS: Big Kids (ages 17-64) $12 Juniors (ages 13-16) $10 Seniors (ages 65+) $10 Little Kids (12 & Under) FREE Pit Pass $25

TIMES:

Pit gate opens at 4:00 PM Grandstand at 5:00 PM Racing at 6:00 PM

North Iowa Fair — Mason City, July 19-23. Hot air balloon rally, small stage music festival, free carnival rides, helicopter rides and dog show.

Floyd County Fair — Charles City, July 19-23. Dueling pianos and fashion show.

Winnebago County Fair — Thompson, July 20-23. Shotgun and Lace, carnival games, inflatables, rodeo and horse show.

Hancock County Fair — Britt, July 25- July 31. Races, Johnny Holm Band and tractor pull.

Kossuth County Fair — Algona, Aug. 1-5. Go cart races, classic 80s rock bands and demolition derby.

Mitchell County Fair — Osage, August 2-6. Tractor pull, demolition derby, Menace and Rodeo.

Iowa State Fair — Des Moines, Aug. 10-20. Nickelback, Pentatonix, Alabama, Little Big Town, John Mellencamp and Kid Rock.

Clay County Fair — Spencer, Sept. 9-17. For King and Country, Old Dominion, dirt events and racing.

Above: Mitchell County Fair Combine Demolition Derby in Osage Left: Spectators watch as the Rhinestone Roper performs during his show at the Franklin County Fair in Hampton.

CHRIS ZOELLER PHOTOS, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

CHRIS ZOELLER PHOTOS, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

A flutist in the Garner-Hayfield/Ventura High School Marching Band smiles as she performs during the North Iowa Band Festival Parade in Mason City.

Mason City is home to Midwest’s largest band festival COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

MASON CITY — The 79th North Iowa Band Festival is staying downtown for the third year with a variety of entertainment.

The festival previously had been held in East Park since 1992. Originally, it was held in Roosevelt Stadium and was moved downtown in 1982 after the stadium was torn down.

The festival returned downtown in 2015.

The 79th annual Band Festival will be held May 25-29.

The event is the largest free marching band competition in the Midwest. The festival brings in thousands of tourists.

North Iowa Band Festival Parade

Last year, tourism brought in an estimated $78.6 million into Mason City’s economy.

In Cerro Gordo County, tourism generated an estimated $191.37 million in visitor spending which is the 11th highest county level in the Iowa.

Entertainment for the band festival will include a variety of musical genres.

The country music band Thrillbillies will open Friday night followed by headliner Chris Hawkey. Hawkey is known for his country hit singles “My Kind of Crazy” and “Good Liar.”

Betty and the Gents will entertain those of all ages with a mix of classic and modern hits

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F27

Band Festival Schedule of Events THURSDAY, MAY 25 6 p.m. — Middle school night, plaza 6:45 p.m. — Mason City Municipal Band, plaza 7:30 p.m. — Orquesta Alto Maiz (The Salsa Band), First Congregational United Church of Christ 6-8 p.m. — Carnival open downtown

The Lake Mills High School Marching Band drum line traverses down East State Street during the North Iowa Band Festival Parade in Mason City. Lake Mills received the Grand Champion award for its performance.

NORTH IOWA’S

Saturday evening. The Pork Tornadoes of Cedar Rapids will take the stage Saturday as well. They are one of the most sought-after party bands in the Midwest, Band Festival officials said.

Musicians from the Mason City Municipal Band and students from the Mason City

Middle School Band, high school jazz band and high school orchestra will play on the plaza throughout the weekend. The Mohawk Danzers and Newman High School Dance Team will perform as well.

Festival activities, which also include the carnival and marketplace.

FRIDAY, MAY 26 5 p.m. — Carnival, marketplace, concessions open downtown 5 p.m. — Mohawk Danzers, main stage 5:15 p.m. — Mason City High School orchestra, main stage 6 p.m. — Thrillbillies, main stage 8 p.m. — Chris Hawkey, main stage

SATURDAY, MAY 27 8 a.m. — 28th annual Stu Nevermann Memorial Run, Aquatic Center 10 a.m. — Parade Noon — Carnival, marketplace, concessions open downtown 1 p.m. — Newman High School dance team, main stage 1:15 p.m. — Mason City High School Jazz Band, plaza 2 p.m. — Awards ceremony and Extreme Makeover announcement, main stage 5 p.m. — Betty and the Gents 7 p.m. — The Pork Tornadoes, main stage SUNDAY, MAY 28 9 a.m. — Outdoor worship service, Trinity Lutheran Church Noon — Carnival, marketplace open downtown MONDAY, MAY 29 Noon — Carnival open

LARGEST SELECTION OF CLEAR LAKE APPAREL! Your headquarters for FUN... where you will find everything under the SUN!

323 Main Ave, Clear Lake

357-7544

Hours: Mon-Sat 9-6; Sun. 9-5

CHRIS ZOELLER PHOTOS, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Up in Smoke BBQ Bash

14th edition of the BBQ Bash promises tasty entertainment COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

Up in Smoke BBQ Bash

MASON CITY — The 14th annual Up in Smoke BBQ Bash will being teams from across the Midwest and even as far as California to compete for pork glory.

The Bash is one of the biggest barbecue events in the Midwest and averages about 50 participants each year.

The Globe Gazette-sponsored event will be held July 21-22 in East Park. Attendance can approach 10,000 over the two days.

The competition is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society and the teams cook for certified KCBS judges, earning points toward

the national title.

The teams will prepare pork shoulder, ribs, brisket and chicken. The judges select the overall grand and reserve champions along with divisional winners.

The competition isn’t just about BBQ. Teams can compete in other bash contests like desserts, Spam and Anything Butt.

Entertainment this year features Standing Hampton, The Grant Family and Bolder Road.

Admission to the event and the live music is free. Vendors will be selling a wide assortment of barbecue and other types of food and beverages, and a beer garden will be open both days.

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F29

Up In Smoke BBQ Bash, East Park, Mason City

Jeff Hanson and Dustin Reese of Hogline BBQ hold their first-place trophy for the Spam Cook-Off Friday at the 2016 Up in Smoke BBQ Bash at East Park in Mason City.

Members of the judges panel sample — or SPAMple — entries in the SPAM Cook-Off at the 2016 BBQ Bash.

Schedule of events FRIDAY, JULY 21 5 p.m. — Beer garden, food court and children’s playground opens.

6 p.m. — To Be Announced.

7 p.m. — Music by Standing Hampton 9 p.m. — Kids playground closes.

10 p.m. — Food court closes.

11 p.m. — Beer garden closes.

SATURDAY, JULY 22 11 a.m. — Beer garden, food court kid’s playground opens.

Live music by The Grant Family.

11:30 a.m. — KCBS Competition.

Museum & Gift Shop Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm

Additional Summer Hours (Memorial Day - Labor Day)

Sat 9am-1pm • Sun 1-4pm

2 p.m. — Music by Bolder Road.

4 p.m. — Awards ceremony.

4:30 p.m. — Music by Bolder Road.

6 p.m. — Beer garden, food court and kid’s playground closes.

460 North Shore Drive Clear Lake www.SurfBallroom.com (641) 357-6151

With a capacity of 2,100, the Surf is a great location for wedding receptions, reunions, corporate events and more!

Guided Tours available by appointment for groups of 30 or more.

F32

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

JEFF HEINZ, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Iowa Public Television’s Dan Wardell tells listeners at the Mason City Public Library his story of “Snow White and the Seven Superheroes” in July 2014.

Keep kids busy at the library and MacNider COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

MASON CITY — There are plenty of events to keep the kids learning and busy throughout the summer at Mason City Public Library and MacNider Art Museum.

Programs for young adults include craft evenings, yoga and library after dark among other special programming.

For children, library activities include story tellers, magicians, puppeteers and more. Children and teens are

also invited to participate in the library’s summer reading program.

All reading, including books, comics, magazines, audiobooks, graphic novels and e-books, count toward totals.

For every 30 minutes young adults read, participate in a library event or volunteer at the library, they can mark a space off their log.

Teens can help with childrens programs and craft mornings, clean books, shelve, straighten rooms and

Library young adult activities Times TBA on the Mason City Public Library calendar.

June 13 — Game night

July 3 — Scavenger hunt

June 15 — Star Lab

July 4 — Library closed

June 20 — Craft

July 6 — Jeff Quinn

June 22 — Yoga

July 7 — The End

June 28 — Workshop

July 8 — Skate party

June 29 — Library After Dark shelf read.

For every 15 minutes children read by themselves, read

to someone or have someone read to them, they can fill in a circle on their log.

A parade of tractors rolls down East State Street in Mason City.

ARIAN SCHUESSLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Tractor rides offer unique view of North Iowa COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

KLMJ/KQCR Antique Tractor Parade Saturday, Aug. 26 This annual ride will start and finish at McRoberts Red Power in Greene. Route for the parade is Aredale, Hansell, Hampton, Dumont, Bristow and back to Greene. There will be breaks in Aredale, Hampton and Dumont.

Registration fee is $50 per tractor, and covers all breaks, including breakfast and dinner, and a picture with the tractor. The breakfast is also open to the public.

For more information and the registration form, call Mandy Strother at 641-456-

5656 or email her at mandy@ klmj.com. Forms are also available from sponsors and at radioonthego.com.

Forest City Tractor Ride

Saturday, Aug. 12 The Forest City Chamber of Commerce and Heritage Park of North Iowa are partnering for the 14th Annual Forest City Tractor Ride.

The 50-60 mile route starts and ends at Heritage Park of North Iowa. There will be a stop for a morning break and for a noon meal. Afternoon break will be at Heritage Park of North Iowa after the ride.

The trip is divided into two groups, a fast group and a slow group depending on the speed of your tractor.

For registration informa-

tion, contact the Chamber of Commerce at 641-585-2092, or chamber1@wctatel.net.

CVEC/KGLO Tractor Ride

Saturday, June 10 The ride will start and end in Lawler.

The ride will begin in Lawler where breakfast will be served. The tractors will move on to Little Turkey, Spillville for a morning break then on to Ridgeway. The group will stop in Cresco for lunch and on to Protivin for an afternoon break before returning to Lawler.

Pre-registration is requested to ensure adequate planning. Registered attendees receive an official tractor ride T-shirt, commemorative DVD and a swag bag.

Registration is free. Registration forms, route map, and lodging facilities are all available at DiscoverNorthIowa.com. For more information, riders can also stop into the KGLO studio in Mason City or call at 641423-1300.

North Iowa Tractor Ride

July 27-29 The 10th Annual North Iowa Tractor Ride will headquarter at the Boone County Fairgrounds, featuring nearly 200 tractors. On Thursday, July 27, the ride will roll thorugh Boone, Stratford, Yell, Ridgeport, Dayton, Pilot Mound and Fraser.

For more information, go to northiowatractorride.com.

This is not an exclusive list.

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

Wilcox Furniture is North Iowa's leading distributor of Homecrest Outdoor Furniture

Is your fabric in need of replacement?

See us for sling chair fabric replacement

Numerous fabrics to choose from

All

Specially Priced!

~A Tradition in Fine Living Since 1952 ~ 418 Main Ave., Clear Lake • 357-5241

Stop in and see our large selection

F31

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F33

Library children activities Times TBA on Mason City Public Library calendar.

June 12 — Stories and crafts

June 27 — Pick up Animals

June 14 — The Zoo Man

June 28 — Kevin Horner

June 15 — Star Lab

July 3 — Scavenger hunt

June 19 — Duke Otherwise

July 4 — Library closed

June 21 — Stories and crafts

July 5 — Dan Wardel

June 22 — Yoga

July 6 — Jeff Quinn

June 26 — Stuffed Animal storytime

July 7 — The End July 8 — Skate party

MacNider Art Museum June 7— 9:30 a.m., Learning to June 22 — 9:30 a.m., Handbuilding with Clay. Ages 5 Throw. Ages 10 and up. and up.

June 7 — Noon, Handbuilding June 22 — 2 p.m., American with Clay. Ages 5 and up.

Jubilee. Ages 5 and up.

June 8 — 9:30 a.m., June 24 — 9 a.m., Janet Fish Handbuilding with Clay. Ages and Fresh Fruit. Adult-Teen 5 and up. class.

June 10 — 9 a.m., MacNider June 26 — 8 a.m., Summer Art Arts Festival Camp. Ages 6-12.

June 10 — 9 a.m., Outdoor art June 27 — 8 a.m., Summer Art market.

Camp. Ages 6-12.

June 13 — 6:30 p.m., Art June 28 — 8 a.m., Summer Art Bugs.

Camp. Ages 6-12.

June 14— 9:30 a.m., Learning June 29 — 8 a.m., Summer Art to Throw. Ages 10 and up.

Camp. Ages 6-12.

June 14 — Noon, Handbuilding June 30 — 8 a.m., Summer Art with Clay. Ages 5 and up.

Camp. Ages 6-12.

June 14 — 1 p.m., Plastic Art. July 8 — 9:30 a.m., Sticky Ages 5 and up.

Business. Ages 5-8.

June 15 — 9:30 a.m., Handbuilding with Clay. Ages July 8 — 9:30 a.m., Optical Illusions. Ages 9 and up.

5 and up.

June 16 — 10 a.m., Whimsical Animal Wire Sculptures. Ages 7 and up.

June 21— 9:30 a.m., Learning to Throw. Ages 10 and up.

June 21 — Noon, Handbuilding with Clay. Ages 5 and up.

Unique puppet show visits MacNider Art Museum. globegazette.com/multimedia/photos

SHOP THE BEST FLORAL & HOME DÉCOR IN TOWN!

July 20 — 5:30 p.m., Art Bugs.

July 31- Aug. 4 — Summer Art Camp II.

Silk Florals, Linens, Glassware, Wall Art & More

Aug. 12 — 10 a.m., Art Bugs.

Aug. 17 — 9-11 a.m., Pokemon Polymer Clay. Ages 9 and up.

Aug. 19 — 9-11 a.m., Pokemon Polymer Clay. Ages 9 and up.

Flowers and Gifts For All Occasions 301 Main Ave., Clear Lake, IA

641-357-1505

Hours: Mon. - Sat. 9am - 5pm

F34

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

North Iowa golf courses Acorn Park Golf Course Phone: 641-736-4450 1426 Highway 105 St. Ansgar

Clear Lake’s Kyle Calaguas makes a put in a match against Newman Catholic at Highland Park Got Course in Mason City.

Algona Country Club Phone: 515-295-7308 400 Country Club Road Algona

CHRIS ZOELLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Bear Creek Golf Course Phone: 641-585-1353 145 S. Golf Course Road Forest City Belmond Country Club Inc. Phone: 641-444-4183 1208 Third St. N.E. Belmond Britt Country Club Phone: 641-843-3249 2360 James Ave. Britt Buffalo Run Golf Club Phone: 641-749-5522 Highway 122 West (west of Nora Springs) Nora Springs Cedar Ridge Golf Course Phone: 641-228-6465 2147 Underwood Ave. Charles City Garner Golf Course Phone: 641-923-2819 205 Country Club Drive Garner Gruis Recreation Area Golf Course Phone: 641-926-5393 2724 360th St. Buffalo Center Hampton Country Club Phone: 641-456-3256 1620 Country Club Lane Hampton Highland Park Golf Course Phone: 641-423-9693 944 17th St. N.E. Mason City

Hillside Golf & Dining Phone: 515-679-4007 or 515679-4262 2260 Crane Ave. Wesley

Pine Creek Golf Club Phone: 641-423-6831 Highway 65 N. — 15568 317th St. 4 miles north of Mason City

Latimer Golf Club Phone: 515-579-6090 125 East St. Latimer

Pioneer Town and Country Club Phone: 641-454-2414 410 Club Terrace Manly

Linn Grove Country Club Phone: 641-822-4990 216 Madison St. W. Rockwell Mason City Country Club Private Club, must be playing with member Phone: 641-424-2173 3331 19th St. S.W. Mason City Northwood Country Club Phone: 641-324-1662 1391 490th St. Northwood Oak Hills Par 30 Public Golf Course Phone: 641-357-2216 518 27th Ave. S. Clear Lake

Pleasant Valley Golf Club Phone: 641-998-2117 405 N. First St. Thornton Rice Lake Golf and Country Club Phone: 641-592-8022 43080 Golf Ave. Lake Mills

River Road Golf Club Phone: 515-295-7351 2308 River Road 2¼ miles northwest of Algona Round Grove Golf Club Phone: 641-816-5621 20498 Floyd Line St. Greene Slippery Elm Golf Course Phone: 641-587-2670 800 S. First St. Klemme Spring Valley Phone: 515-379-1259 1105 140th Ave. Livermore Sunny Brae Golf & Country Club Phone: 641-732-3435 3419 Golf Course Road Osage

Riceville Country Club Phone: 641-985-2447 401 E. Main St. Riceville

Veterans Memorial Golf Club Phone: 641-357-4457 2000 North Shore Drive Clear Lake

Ridge Stone Golf Club Phone: 641-892-8050 7 Brickyard Road Sheffield

Wildwood Golf Course Phone: 641-257-6322 Wildwood Park Third St. and Iowa Charles City

za

•

dw n Sa

Appetiz • s e ers ich

•P as ta

Like us on Facebook for specials and events!

200 Hwy. 18W • Clear Lake 641-357-8118 www.theotherplace.com Open Daily at 11 am Noon Specials M-F Happy Hour M-F 3:00-6:00 pm Dine In or Carry Out

H

OP

40 TV’S including a 13.5’ Screen in our new outdoor addition.

We have all the major sports channels.

Reserve our OUTDOOR ADDITION for your next big special occasion: GRADUATION • MEETINGS BIRTHDAY • ENGAGEMENT PARTY ANNIVERSARY • RECEPTIONS. Call for details.

OP LIVE

Seating: 200 inside • 70 on our deck & 180 in our new outdoor addition.

&M o re

Wednesday Night BIKE NIGHT AND DIRT TALK LIVE This is one night you won’t want to miss!

Check out our REMODELED DECK & NEW DECK MENU. Believe us when we say you’ve never seen either before!

ps • Fryers • Grill Sou

The Weather Doesn’t Matter!

ade em om

Pi z

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F35

F36

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

Mason City summer calendar Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

MAY May 23 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

Aug. 4 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

May 26 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

May 25-29 — North Iowa Band Festival.

Aug. 8 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

May 30 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

Aug. 11 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

May 30 — noon-1 p.m., Lunch ‘n’ Learn, Charles H. MacNider Art Museum, www.macniderart.org.

JUNE June 1 — 7:30 p.m., Mason City Municipal Band, Southbridge Mall plaza June 2 – Relay For Life Cerro Gordo County June 6 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

June 7-11 — Mid States Summer Horse Show, North Iowa Events Center.

CHRIS ZOELLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Mason City downtown June 22 — 7:30 p.m., Mason City Municipal Band, Southbridge Mall plaza June 23 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

June 24 — Cannonball Day June 23-25 — Dressage Horse Show, North Iowa Events Center.

June 27 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

June 8 — 7:30 p.m., Mason City Municipal Band, Southbridge Mall plaza

June 30 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

June 9 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

JULY July 3 — 9 p.m., municipal band concert, Mohawk Stadium. .Fireworks

June 10 — 9 a.m., MacNider Outdoor Market.

July 4 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

June 13 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

July 6 — 7:30 p.m., municipal band concert, Southbridge Mall.

June 14-18 — Mid States Summer July 7— 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot Horse Show, North Iowa Events south of First Congregational Center.

Church.

June 16 — 6-10 p.m., Friday Night July 9 — noon, Homemade Ice Live, Central Park.

Cream Social, Kinney Pioneer June 20 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Museum.

Farmers Market. Parking lot July 11 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa south of First Congregational Farmers Market. Parking lot Church.

south of First Congregational Church.

July 13 — 7:30 p.m., municipal band concert, Southbridge Mall.

July 14 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

July 18 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

July 20 — 7:30 p.m., municipal band concert, Southbridge Mall.

July 21 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

July 21-23 — North Iowa Fair, North Iowa Event Center.

July 21-22 — Up In Smoke BBQ Bash, East Park.

July 25 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

July 28 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

July 28 — 6-10 p.m., Friday Night Live, Central Park.

Aug. 15 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

Aug. 18 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

Aug. 22 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

Aug. 25 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

Aug. 28 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

September Sept. 1 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

Sept. 5 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

Sept. 8 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa Farmers Market. Parking lot south of First Congregational Church.

Sept. 8-10 — Mason City Civil War Re-enactment, East Park.

Sept. 9-10 — Regional dressage horse show, North Iowa Events AugUst Aug. 5-6 — Dressage Horse Show, Center.

North Iowa Events Center.

Sept. 15-16 — Great River City Festival Aug. 1 — 4-6 p.m., North Iowa

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

Mason City hosts annual

F37

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

MASON CITY — Tuesday, Aug. 1, marks the 34th Anniversary for the annual National Night Out crime and drug prevention event.

Starting at 5 p.m. residents are encouraged to show solidarity by turning on porch lights and heading to the North Iowa Event Center for the free fun-packed “family affair” in the All Seasons bldg.

A variety of activities will be held including a kid power pedal tractor pull event, bounce houses and balloon creations by Today’s Your Day as well as displays and demonstrations presented by local community organizations and youth oriented programs.

Free food will be served and there will be a drawing for prizes.

The event is sponsored in conjunction with the National Association of Town Watch, and locally by the Mason City Community Policing Advisory Board along with the Mason City Police Department.

The event will be held rain or shine.

Contact cpab.1997@yahoo. com or call 421-3650 for more information.

College Hill

Cameron Gray, 12, Nora Springs, takes a quick drum lesson during the National Night Out held in Mason City’s East Park on Tuesday night.

AARON THOMAS PHOTOS, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Left: A few hundred people attended the National Night Out event held in Mason City’s East Park. Right: Maggie Steenblock, left, 3, and her sister Avery, 12, of Mason City, jump in a bounce house during the National Night Out event held in Mason City’s East Park.

Arts Festival

39th Annual Cedar Falls, Iowa West 23rd and College

Enjoy head-to-toe pampering pampering Enjoy head-to-toe at for it’s less! best!

June 16-17, 2017 Friday Noon - 8 pm Saturday 10 am - 5 pm 75 Juried Artists | Music | Kid’s Activities Free Admission | Free Parking

Hwy. 122 by Cinema West • Mason City aesthetictouchdayspa.com

641-423-1811

F38

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

The Rotary Cannonball in Mason City’s East Park.

FILE PHOTO

Cannonball tradition continues in Mason City kids pedal tractor pull and Iowa State Fair Bill Riley Talent search.

MASON CITY — The 12th Last year, several youth annual Cannonball Day will be 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. June 24 performers from the talent search went on to compete at at East Park.

A fun-filled day for children the Iowa State Fair. Each of the competitors receive a winand adults is planned with the Cannonball Kids Fun Run, ner’s ribbon, and top winners followed by the championship receive cash prizes to help fur-

COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

ther their talent.

The Cannonball Kids Fun Run is an annual event held on Cannonball Day. Kids ages 5 to 6 run .5 mile, ages 7 to 8 run 0.75-mile, ages 9 to 10 run 1-mile and 11 to 13 run 1.5 miles. Free water and healthy snacks are offered to the runners at the end of the courses.

Pre-registration is encouraged so that each runner will have a free T-shirt available to them, however, last minute entries will be accepted for running. All pre-registered participants who cross the Finish Line will receive a unique Winners Medal designed by the Friends of the

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

CHRIS ZOELLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Hy-Vee employees Kory Attleson, left, and Ryan Evers rotate chicken over the charcoal grill during the annual Cannonball Day at East Park in Mason City. The Evening Lions Club sold and served the dinners.

Shop our specially curated selection of donated new and gently used: • Women’s clothing • Jewelry • Handbags • Shoes CHRIS ZOELLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Tracy Hedegard of Plymouth helps her 2½-year-old nephew, Ransom Buckley, pull the cord to ring the bell on the Rotary Cannonball locomotive during the 2015 Cannonball Day at East Park in Mason City.

457 and sponsored by Hy-Vee Stores in Mason City.

More than 100 runners typically enter. Those who participate receive free tickets to the activities at Cannonball Day that begin immediately after the runs about 10:30 a.m.

The Kids Fun Run is jointly organized by the Friends of the 457 and the Mason City YMCA and sponsored by local supporters.

Also available will be inflatables, Smoky the Train rides, tours of the Rotary Cannonball, and operating model train displays. On display will

be the North Iowa Vintage Car Club’s cars.

Mason City Evening Lions will serve barbecue chicken 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with driveups or eat in the park available. Entertainment will be provided through the day.

The Friends of the 457 are volunteers dedicated to restoring and preserving the M&StL 457, better known as the Rotary Cannonball.

Cannonball Day raises funds to continue the preservation and maintenance of the 1912 railroad steam engine at East Park.

And more!

Located in Willowbrook Mall, Mason City Open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Tuesday through Friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday All proceeds benefits services for individuals with disabilities supported by

F39

F40

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

Iconic Surf Ballroom plans another busy summer COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

CLEAR LAKE — Surf Ballroom is gearing for a variety of entertainment this summer.

From illusionist Rick Thomas to rockabilly riots and big-band music, there’s something for everyone in at Clear Lake’s historic concert spot.

The Surf has provided many jam packed years of entertainment without letting up.

The season starts with Fuel, a band that has sold nearly four million records worldwide boasting hit songs like “Shimmer and “Hemorrhage (In My Hands).” They will be joined

by Dishwalla and Marcy Playground.

Illusionist Rick Thomas has completed five world tours covering 50 countries and will stop in at the Surf May 28.

A regional favorite, Johnny Holm Band, will perform for the Take Me Back Reunion on June 9. Blues lovers will be entertained by Savoy Brown June 3.

Brian Setzer’s Rockabilly Riot will roll through town June 14. The three-time Grammy award winner Setzer will rock the stage with a combo of rockabilly and swing music.

Ted Nugent and Air Supply are also on the list of top entertainment this summer.

Just those events show the variety of acts booked by the Surf during the summer and throughout the year. And shows will be added to the schedule throughout the summer.

Plus, there are a variety of other activities that take place at the ballroom, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, including weddings, music education programs and more.

FILE PHOTO

Music fans can expect another summer of stars and more at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake.

Summer at The Surf Friday, May 26: Fuel with Dishwalla and Marcy Playground.

Band and Special Guest Milk & Honey.

Friday, June 2: Lita Ford with Special Guest Steelheart.

Wednesday, June 14: Brian Setzer’s Rockabilly Riot.

Saturday, June 3: Savoy Brown.

Friday, June 16: Tyler Farr.

Sunday, June 11: Hunter Sunday, May 28: Illusionist Rick Fuerste and His Vintage Orchestra.

Thomas.

Friday, June 9: Take Me Back Reunion with the Johnny Holm To cater to summertime tourists, the ballroom is open on weekends, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays and 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays. Regular hours

Friday, June 23: Canaan Smith with special guest Steve Moakler. are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The ballroom may be booked for concerts or other activities, so it’s best to call ahead to de-

Friday, June 30: Puddle of Mudd with Saving Abel.

Saturday, July 15: Dennis DeYoung and the Music of Styx.

Friday, July 28: Air Supply.

Saturday, July 29: Stever Earle and The Dukes.

Thursday, Aug. 3: Ted Nugent.

Friday, Aug. 3: Guitar Legend Dick Dale with Whitesidewalls.

termine availability.

More information — including schedule updates — is available at surfballroom.com or by calling 641-357-6151.

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F41

Clear Lake’s Lakefest Weekend focuses on art, jazz COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

CLEAR LAKE — Jazz, art and story lovers will have plenty to scope at this year’s Lakefest in Clear Lake.

Iowa Storytelling Festival

The festival features the Iowa Storytelling Festival, Art Sail and Lakeside Dixiefest in Clear Lake, from July 22 to 23.

The 29th annual Iowa Storytelling Festival, sponsored by the Clear Lake Public Library, runs from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on July 22 in City Park. Storytellers from throughout the Midwest will perform for an all-ages audience.

Art Sale

Clear Lake Arts Center’s 40th annual Art Sail features more than 75 artists showcasing and selling their art in city park, located next to the lake. For registration or more information contact the Clear Lake Arts Center 641-357-1998.

Art Sail is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 22 in City Park.

Above: David Hoffman plays trumpet with the Barehanded Wolfchokers, a seven-piece group from Davenport, at the Lakeside Dixiefest in 2015.

ARIAN SCHUESSLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Lakeside DixieFest

Left: Sara Slayton, of La Crosse, Wisconsin, spins a tale as part of the 2014 Iowa Storytelling Festival in Clear Lake’s City Park as part of the Lakefest weekend.

Traditional Dixieland Jazz will be featured during the 24th Annual Lakeside DixieFest. The event will have jazz bands lined up for free outdoor concerts Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m., and on Sunday from noon to 9 p.m.

OAK LEAF COLLECTIBLES Comics, Board Games & Records Your Pop-Culture Source!

221 N. Federal Ave., Mason City 641-424-0333 • www.dustcatchers.com

JEFF HEINZ, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

SERVICES AVAILABLE: • Alignments • Brakes • Computer Scan Analysis • Custom Exhaust • CV Boot & Joint Repair • Fuel Injection Cleaning • Nitrogen Tire Inflation • Oil Changes • Pack Wheel Bearings • Strut & Shock Installation • Tire Balance & Rotation • Tires • Transmission Flush

HOURS: MondayFriday 7:30 a.m.5:30 p.m.

Saturday 8:00 a.m.Noon

Hwy. 18 West, Clear Lake • (641) 357-7117

Miranda Lambert and Tim McGraw (right) perform at the Tree Town Music Festival

RAE YOST PHOTOS

Tree Town grows behind all-star music lineup COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

FOREST CITY —Tree Town Music Festival has steadily grown for four years.

This year’s Tree Town event is scheduled for May 25-28 at Heritage Park of North Iowa, Winnebago Industries property and WIT Grand National Rally grounds in Forest City. Headliners include Bret Michaels, Thomas Rhett, Alan Jackson and Jason Aldean.

Thousands of fans will spend Memorial Day weekend listen-

ing to their favorite country acts.

Big & Rick, Love & Theft and Chris Young are among the other big names gracing the stage this year.

The event is in its fourth year and has a history of drawing big acts, including Tim McGraw and Miranda Lambert last year.

Blake Shelton and Rascal Flatts took the stage in 2015, and Brad Paisley and Toby Keith in 2014.

Last year’s festival drew record crowds, organizers said and expectations are high for this year.

Last year, VIP tickets were almost sold out in mid-April.

Rockin’ Range passes for the front of the main stage were sold out the first day they went on sale.

Two of the camping sites sold out early. A third, larger section was close to selling out in midApril.

Although ticket sales have been brisk, fans can still see if tickets are available by checking treetownfestival.com.

There are multiple stages and beer gardens at the site.

, THE SUMMIT

Schedule of Events THURSDAY, MAY 25 3 p.m. — Brianna Alomar 5:15 p.m. — The Hepperly Band 8 p.m. — Pure Prairie League 9:30 p.m. — Bret Michaels FRIDAY, MAY 26 3 p.m. — Joe Denim 4:30 p.m. — Jake McVey 6 p.m. — Tucker Beathard 8 p.m. — Big & Rich 10 p.m. — Thomas Rhett SATURDAY, MAY 27 3 p.m. — Joe Denim 3 p.m. — Adley Stump 4:30 p.m. — Luke Bell 6 p.m. — Love & Theft 8 p.m. — Dwight Yoakam 11:30 p.m. — Alan Jackson SUNDAY, MAY 28 3 p.m. — Joe Denim 3 p.m. — David Ray 4:30 p.m. — William Michael Morgan 6 p.m. — High Valley 8 p.m. — Chris Young 10 p.m. — Jason Aldean Fans sing and cheer for Old Dominion at the Tree Town Music Festival in Forest City.

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F43

Piano cover group highlights Puckerbrush COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

FOREST CITY — Puckerbrush Days will have plenty of entertainment and fun this year.

The event begins Thursday, July 13 and runs through Sunday, July 16. Puckerbrush has been growing each year, according to committee member Scott Meinders.

Headlining the weekend of entertainment is Pianopalooza, a Des Moines-based piano cover group with a full band that covers music from the 1950s to current hits.

Pianopalooza is returning to Puckerbrush Days after performing at the festival in 2016. The band is scheduled to perform on Friday evening, July 14.

Additionally, the Puckerbrush Committee has booked Paul Weitzel and The Hats, from Mason City, on Thursday, July 13 Anthony Koester & The Skunk River Band, from Des Moines, on Saturday, July 15 and Gilbert Goldsmith, featuring Forest City natives Signe Johnson and Robby Gilbertson, opening for Pianopalooza on Friday, July 14.

The event will include a beer garden, food court, parade,

A line of tractors roll down Clark Street as part of the 2016 Puckerbrush parade.

FILE PHOTO

waterball competition, bounce house, author meet-and-greet and fireworks. The mud volleyball tournament will also return.

The Forest City Municipal Band will be performing immediately after the parade on Saturday, as well as Monte Leichsenring’s one-man band; both of whom performed at Puckerbrush Days in 2016.

This year, all live music will be free, and for all ages.

O P A !

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Pianopalooza will headline Puckerbrush Days on Friday, July 14.

GREEK FESTIVAL

SAVE THE DATE! SAT., JUNE 17, 2017 • 11 AM TO 10 PM! • Greek Style Half-Chicken • Spit-Roasted Lamb, Gyros, Souvlaki • Greek Wine & Beer • Cash Raffle

• Greek dancers from Cities • Greek Specialty Booth • Live Greek Music • Children’s Games & Crafts

FREE ADMISSION!

At HOLY TRANSFIGURATION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH 1311 2nd S.W. (Corner of 2nd S.W. & S. Pierce Ave.) Mason City, IA

F44

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

Clear Lake summer calendar MAY May 27 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers market, Surf Ballroom parking lot.

Clear Lake downtown CHRIS ZOELLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

JUNE June 3 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers market, Surf Ballroom parking lot.

June 8 — 6-11 p.m. Thursdays on Main, live music, entertainment, classic cars, a bounce house, hand-powered kiddie train rides, retail stores stay open late, vendor street market and a movie in the park.

June 9-10 — Take Me Back Festival, 8 p.m.-midnight Friday at the Surf Ballroom; 6:30 to 11p.m.

Saturday at PM Park.

June 10 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers market, Surf Ballroom parking lot.

June 16 — 6-11 p.m. Thursdays on Main, live music, entertainment, classic cars, a bounce house, hand-powered kiddie train rides, retail stores stay open late, vendor street market and a movie in the park.

June 17— Midwest F100 Nationals Truck Show, City Park. Registration noon to 6 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Saturday.

retail stores stay open late, vendor street market and a movie in the park.

July 7-8 -Bicycle, Blues & BBQ Festival.

July 22 — 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Iowa Storytelling Festival, City Park.

July 8 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers market, Surf Ballroom parking lot.

July 23 — Noon to 9 p.m. Lakeside DixieFest, City Park band shell.

July 13 — 6-11 p.m. Thursdays on Main, live music, entertainment, June 17 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers classic cars, a bounce house, market, Surf Ballroom parking hand-powered kiddie train rides, lot. retail stores stay open late, venJune 22 — 6-11 p.m. Thursdays on dor street market and a movie in Main, live music, entertainment, the park. classic cars, a bounce house, July 15 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers hand-powered kiddie train rides, market, Surf Ballroom parking retail stores stay open late, ven- lot. dor street market and a movie in July 16 — 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Lions the park.

Chicken BBQ, City Park.

June 24 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers July 20 — 6-11 p.m. Thursdays on market, Surf Ballroom parking Main, live music, entertainment, lot. classic cars, a bounce house, JULY hand-powered kiddie train rides, June 29-July 4 — Clear Lake July retail stores stay open late, ven4th celebration. dor street market and a movie in the park.

July 1 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers market, Surf Ballroom parking July 22 — 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Art Sail, lot.

City Park.

July 6 — 6-11 p.m. Thursdays on Main, live music, entertainment, classic cars, a bounce house, hand-powered kiddie train rides,

market, Surf Ballroom parking lot.

July 22 — 6-9 p.m. Lakeside DixieFest, City Park band shell.

July 22 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers

July 27 — 6-11 p.m. Thursdays on Main, live music, entertainment, classic cars, a bounce house, hand-powered kiddie train rides, retail stores stay open late, vendor street market and a movie in the park.

July 29 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers market, Surf Ballroom parking lot.

July 30 — 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Lions Hamburger and Sweet Corn Feast, City Park.

AUGUST Aug. 3 — 6-11 p.m. Thursdays on Main, live music, entertainment, classic cars, a bounce house, hand-powered kiddie train rides, retail stores stay open late, vendor street market and a movie in the park.

Aug. 4-5 — CLASS Car Show and Summer Dance Cruise, City Park.

Aug. 5 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers market, Surf Ballroom parking lot.

Aug. 10 — 6-11 p.m. Thursdays on Main, live music, entertainment, classic cars, a bounce house, hand-powered kiddie train rides, retail stores stay open late, vendor street market and a movie in the park.

Aug. 12 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers market, Surf Ballroom parking lot.

Aug. 17 — 6-11 p.m. Thursdays on Main. Live music, entertainment, classic cars, a bounce house, hand-powered kiddie train rides, retail stores stay open late, vendor street market and a movie in the park.

Aug. 19 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers market, Surf Ballroom parking lot.

Aug. 24 — 6-11 p.m. Thursdays on Main, live music, entertainment, classic cars, a bounce house, hand-powered kiddie train rides, retail stores stay open late, vendor street market and a movie in the park.

SEPTEMBER Sept. 2 — 9 a.m.-noon. Farmers market, Surf Ballroom parking lot.

Sept. 3 — 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Antiques in the Square, City Park.

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F47

Festivals and Fridays highlight Osage Chamber plans COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

OSAGE — From antique festivals to Friday nights out, the Osage Chamber of Commerce is planning a full summer of events.

One of the highlights is the Summer Treasures Fest on June 3, a celebration of antiques, repurposed items and lawn art and plants. The event is designed to complement Osage’s Autumn Artistry in the fall.

Held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the parking lots by Home Trust and Savings Bank and Art’s Shoes, the event has a focus on antiques and restored or repurposed items.

Food and refreshments will be available.

Another highlight of the summer will be the downtown farmers markets, located in the green space on the site of the old fire station (behind the China House Restaurant) on

South Seventh Street.

The markets are held from 8 a.m. until noon on the first Saturdays of the month. The current Saturday market, held at Town and Country Plaza, will continue there.

The first of five Friday Nights Out in City Park will be held from 5:30-10 p.m. on Friday, June 16. The popular event features live music, kids’ activities, food and beverages. Jesse Allen band will provide the entertainment for the first Friday.

BRAM on June 24 will allow bike enthusiasts the opportunity to tour Mitchell County from the seat of their bikes.

The tour will travel through the towns of Mitchell, Orchard, McIntire, Riceville and New Haven to enjoy the scenery along the Cedar River, Iowa country-side, and the Wapsi Great Western Trail.

Food and drink stops are provided on the longer routes,

“On the Run for Education” 5K and 1-mile Run/Walk, sponsored by the Osage Education Foundation. Registration is from 7:15-7:45 a.m. and the race starts at 8 a.m., followed by awards at 9 a.m. The race will begin and end in the Cedar River Complex parking lot. There will be drinks and snacks following the race in City Park.

This year’s Fourth of July Parade begin at 10 a.m. and a $10 fee for all entries will be charged. The Farm Bureau Town & Country BBQ follows at 11 a.m. at the CRC JIM CROSS, THE PRESS-NEWS Events Center on the Mitchell County Fairgrounds.

From windmills to washtubs, The summer winds down in visitors to Osage’s Summer Osage with the annual MitchTreasures Fest discovered many ell County Fair from Aug. hidden treasures.

2-6 at the Mitchell County Fairgrounds. Highlights inwith plenty of good eats in clude a car demolition derby, Riceville. The tour will then return to Osage to enjoy Main a combine demolition derby, sanctioned tractor pull and Street. concerts.

On the Fourth of July is the

Marion Ross of Happy Days

MUSEUM & LIBRARY HOURS

Tours by appointment

Wednesday through Saturday 10:00 am – 4:00 p.m.

507-373-8003

October through April

MUSEUM, LIBRARY & VILLAGE HOURS May through September

Wednesday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 pm

1031 Bridge Avenue Albert Lea, MN

www.fchm.us

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

Osage summer calendar

F45

JUNE June 3 — 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Third annual Treasures Fest, downtown Osage. Relics, refurbished relics, antiques, garden and yard art, and flowers and plants from local greenhouses.

June 16 — 5:30-10 p.m. Friday Night Out, Osage City Park. Live music, food and beverage vendors begin at 5:30 p.m.; activities for the kids begin at 6 p.m.

Jesse Allen band.

June 24 — BRAM. June 30 — 5:30-10 p.m. Friday Night Out, Osage City Park. Live music, food and beverages, kids activities. Trouble Shooters band.

JULY July 4 — 10 a.m. Annual Independence Day Parade, downtown Osage; followed by the Mitchell County Farm Bureau Town & Country BBQ at 11 a.m.; kids games at the Cedar River Complex. 2 p.m. Bull and Barrel Bash at the Mitchell County Fairgrounds.

July 8 — 5:30-10 p.m. Friday Night Out, Osage City Park. Live music, food and beverages, activities for the kids.

July 14 — 5:30-10 p.m. Friday Night Out, Osage City Park. Live music, food and beverages; kids activities. Spenser Rahm.

July 28 — 5:30-10 p.m. Friday Night Out, Osage City Park. Live music, food and beverages; kids activities. Hwy 9.

The kiddie train is a popular activity for the kiddos at Friday Night Out.

AUGUST Aug. 2 — 6 Mitchell County Fair, Mitchell County Fairgrounds Aug. 11 — 5:30-10 p.m. Friday Night Out, Osage City Park. Kids Night — Live music, food and beverages; kids activities.

BUILDING FAMILY MEMORIES WITHOUT PERSONAL DVD PLAYERS OR VIDEO GAMES.

SEPTEMBER Sept. 16 — 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Autumn Artistry. Downtown Osage.

Sept. 22-24 — 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cedar River Rendezvous. Milton R. Owen Nature Center.

Looking for a grill?

Come in and see our complete line of Weber Grills Gas • Electric • Charcoal Our experienced sales staff can help you make the best selection for your lifestyle

www.kramerhardware.com

Full Line Of Sea•Doo Watercraft

HUGE INCENTIVES GOING ON NOW! Area's Largest Dealer

HIGHWAY 122 WEST MASON CITY

641-424-2861

www.houseofsportsmc.com ®TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.

F46

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

Britt plans 115th Hobo Days GLOBE GAZETTE STAFF

BRITT — Stories flow like a train on the tracks during Hobo Days and the National Hobo Convention in Britt.

The 115th year of the event is Aug. 10-13.

The stories of hobos can be found in the Hobo Cemetery on the eastern side of Evergreen Cemetery in Britt. Stories of hobos such as Steamtrain Maury and Connecticut Slim.

Steamtrain Maury once danced on a stage in Nashville with June Carter Cash. When her dress caught in her shoe, Steamtrain caught her and kept her from falling off the stage.

Many hobos knew Connecticut Slim’s phrase, “I can ride coast to coast on a piece of toast,” his daughter, Connecticut Shorty, said in 2015.

The stories can also be heard around the Hobo Jungle campfire which is a traditional gathering place each evening for hobos and guests. Event attendees can hear the stories and share in the songs and dancing.

The National Hobo Museum contains items that tell the hobo story.

In 2015, Kate Severson brought her kids to the museum so they could learn.

“I wanted to show my kids the symbols and how (the hobos) communicated with each other. And how they traveled and how they lived,” said Severson, of New York and formerly of Britt.

While the event is a traditional gathering for hobos, it’s also a community celebration that features games, entertainment and a parade.

While Severson wanted her children to learn about the hobo lifestyle she also wanted them to share in one of her favorite Hobo Days events.

“My favorite thing about Hobo Days is the parade. It’s the best parade,” Severson said. “It never disappoints and it’s always fantastic. And I’ve

RAE YOST PHOTOS, THE NEWS TRIBUNE

The 2016 Hobo Queen Sunshine and 2016 Hobo King Ricardo. The two hobos were crowned during Hobo Days and the National Hobo Convention.

ALLISON ULLMANN, BRITT NEWS TRIBUNE

Hillbilly Bob sits with his 1929 Model A Ford, Old Ruthie, during Hobo Days. been to quite a few parades across the United States.”

Events throughout Hobo Days and the National Con-

vention include the crowning of the Hobo King and Queen, craft shows, a carnival and more.

ALLISON ULLMANN, BRITT NEWS TRIBUNE

Zander Schlichting, 3, of Kanawha waves to his mom, Sara, while riding on the carousel with his dad, Scott, during Hobo Days.

F48

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

Charles City summer calendar MAY May 24 — Farmers market, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

Downtown Charles City ARIAN SCHUESSLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

May 26 — Party In The Park, 5-9 p.m., Central Park. Music by Richie Lee & the Fabulous 50s Band, kids activities, food and beverages.

May 27 — Farmers market, 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park.

JUNE June 2— Classic Car Night, 5-8 p.m., Dave’s Restaurant.

June 3 — Farmers market, 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park.

June 4 — Charles City Municipal Band Concert, 7:30-9 p.m., Central Park.

June 7 — Summer Day Camp: Dr. Seuss in Nature, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tosanak Recreation Area in Rockford. For children in 1st grade and up. Register at www. floydcoia.org.

June 7 — Farmers market, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

June 9— Party In The Park, 5-9 p.m., Central Park. Music by Toaster, kids’ activities, food and beverages.

June 10 — PAWS Cedar Dog Jog 8:30-11 a.m., Labyrinth at 1200 Riverside Drive. Registration from 7:30-8:15 a.m.

June 10 — Farmers market, 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park.

June 12— Comprehensive Systems Golf Outing, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Cedar Ridge Golf Course.

Call 641-228-4842 to register.

June 14 — Farmers market, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

June 16 — Classic Car Night, 5-8 p.m., Dave’s Restaurant.

June 21 — Farmers market, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

June 23 — Party In The Park, 5-9 p.m., Central Park. Music by Redline, kids’ activities, food and beverages.

June 24 — Farmers market, 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park.

June 28 — Farmers market, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

June 30 — Classic Car Night, 5-8 p.m., Dave’s Restaurant.

JULY July 1 — Farmers market, 9 a.m.noon, Central Park.

July 3 — Fourth of July Celebration, Central Park. Bill Riley Talent Show with activities.

July 4 — July 4th activities, all day. Firecracker 5run/walk, July 4th parade, vendors, food and beverages, live music and evening fireworks.

3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

Aug. 11 — Classic Car Night, 5-8 p.m., Dave’s Restaurant.

July 14 — Party In The Park, Aug. 12 — Farmers market, 5-9 p.m., Central Park. Music by Milk & Honey, Kids activities, food 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park. and beverages.

Aug. 16 — Farmers market, July 15 — Community Breakfast, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

7:30-10 a.m., Charles City VFW. Aug. 18 — Classic Car Night, Public welcome.

5-8 p.m., Dave’s Restaurant.

July 15 — Farmers market, Aug. 19 — Art a Fest, Central 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park. .

Park.

July 19 — Farmers market, Aug. 19 — Community Breakfast, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

7:30-10 a.m., Charles City VFW. Public welcome.

July 19-23 — Floyd County Fair.

July 21 — Classic Car Night, 5-8 p.m., Dave’s Restaurant.

Aug. 19 — Farmers market, 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park.

July 22 — Farmers market, 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park.

Aug. 19 — Celebration of the passage of the 19th Amendment, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Carrie Chapman Catt Home.

July 26 — Farmers market, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

July 29 — Farmers market, 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park.

AUGUST Aug. 2 — Farmers market, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

Aug. 23 — Farmers market, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

Aug. 26 — Farmers market, 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park.

June 16-17— Whitewater Weekend, Riverfront Park.

July 4 — Charles City Municipal Band Concert, 8:30-10 p.m., Charles City Public Library.

June 17 — Community Breakfast, 7:30-10 a.m., Charles City VFW. Public welcome.

July 5 — Farmers market, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

June 17 — Farmers market, 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park.

Aug. 5 — Farmers market, 9 a.m.- SEPTEMBER Sept. 2 — Farmers market, noon, Central Park.

July 8 — Farmers market, 9 a.m.9 a.m.-noon, Central Park.

Aug. 9 — Farmers market, noon, Central Park.

Sept. 2— Farmers market, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

July 12 — Farmers market, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

June 18 — Charles City Municipal Band Concert, 7:30-9 p.m., Central Park.

July 7 — Classic Car Night, 5-8 p.m., Dave’s Restaurant.

Aug. 4 — Party In The Park, 5-9 p.m., Central Park. Music by Endless Summer, Kids activities, food and beverages.

Aug. 26 — Encouragement Corp Christian Concert, 7-10 p.m., Central Park.

Aug. 30 — Farmers market, 3:30-6 p.m., Central Park.

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F49

Britt Horse Draft Show: A 2,500-pound ballet COURTNEY FIORINI

Schedule of Events

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

BRITT — North Iowa’s unique horse event, the Britt Draft Horse Show, will be three days of fun in September.

The annual show returns on Sept. 1-3 to the Hancock District Fairgrounds in Britt.

Randy Hiscocks of the Britt Draft Horse Association said the event is not a typical horse show.

“It’s a 2,500-pound horse doing a ballet,” Hiscocks said.

The draft horses pull carts with two wheels and larger wagons as they are judged on their precision and look.

The draft horses were once popular for agriculture and industrial use but these days they are part of an international competitive show circle.

The draft horse teams in Britt are part of that circle.

The event is one of the largest Draft Horse Hitch shows in North America. There will be 18 six horse hitches.

Teams will compete throughout a summer season to earn points to the Classic Series Show. It’s the championship series, Hiscocks said.

Twelve teams earn the right to compete in the Classic Series.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 1 7 a.m. — Gate opens.

6 p.m. — Youth and amateur show.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 2 7 a.m. — Gate opens.

9 a.m. — Youth groomer and youth showmanship classes.

10 a.m. — Halter classes for hitch horses.

2 p.m. — Draft horse and grandstand show; ladies’ cart, men’s cart, unicorn, 2-4-6-horse hitches.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 3 7 a.m. — Gate opens 10 a.m. — Church services.

ALLISON ULLMANN, THE NEWS TRIBUNE

Blue Ribbon Farms competes in the four-horse hitch during the Britt Draft Horse Show on Labor Day weekend.

Gates open at 7 a.m. Friday.

Friday admission is $2 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12 and free for children under five.

For Saturday and Sunday,

admission is $10 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12 and free for children under five.

Britt draws teams from Canada, Idaho, Utah, Minnesota, Iowa and other states.

2 p.m. — Draft horse grandstand show; ladies’ cart, men’s cart, unicorn, 2-4-6-horse hitches, supreme 6-horse hitch and classic series, 6-horse hitch class.

The teams and states vary slightly from year-to-year but many are returning teams.

TIRES SERVICE DEPENDABILIT Y Complimentary Beverages • Courtesy Shuttle Service • Early Bird Drop - Off • Fluids & Tire Air Fill w/Any Service • Goodyear Credit Card • National Accounts Welcome TIRE & SERVICE STORE NEXT DOOR MS-SPAD110419_075911_0

Visit Your Friends at Graham Tire Today!

Ag & Commercial Downtown 1501 S Taft Ave • 641.201.1751 130 1st ST NW • 641.423.1933

F50

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

JEFF HEINZ PHOTOS, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Kayakers make their way through the whitewater course on the Cedar River in Charles City.

Whitewater fans play in Charles City COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

CHARLES CITY — Charles City’s Whitewater and Riverfront Park has drawn adventure-seeking water lovers from around the country.

The course draws whitewater enthusiasts year round. It beings in many tourists as well as locals. Once the weather warms up, there are kayaks on the water every weekend.

The course opened in 2011 and held its first event in 2012.

Designed by Recreation Engineering and Planning from Boulder, Colorado, Charles City WhiteWater course is made up of 11 acres of water with three whitewater features.

Depending on the water level, the features change.

Professionals try their luck on the course when the water is higher and the course is more difficult.

There are several events on the course this year.

Whitewater events June 17 — all day, The Charles City Challenge June 24 — 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Iowa Games Whitewater Slalom Slalom will be held June 24.

The games will hold competitions for 12 different divisions: Decked Canoe (C1), Decked Tandem Canoe (C2), Open Solo Canoe (OC1), Open Tandem Canoe (OC2), Kayak (K1), Tandem Kayak (K2), Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP), Kayakers make their way through the whitewater course on the Downriver Sprint, Any Solo Cedar River in Charles City during one of the WhiteWater Weekend Paddle, Downriver Sprint, Any events.

Tandem Paddle Craft, Slalom for any solo paddle craft, Slainclude the Crazy Cardboard Charles City Challenge will lom for any tandem paddle Boat Race, BBQ Challenge, be June 17. There are 25-30 craft and Throw Rope. disc golf tournament, downparticipants on the course.

Age groups are under 12, 12town farmers market among The Whitewater Weekend 17, 18-40, 41-60 and over 60 others. has become a large festival The Iowa Games Whitewater for male, female and coed. for Charles City. The events

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

ABATE rally returns to Algona

F51

COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

ALGONA — The 33rd annual ABATE of Iowa Freedom Rally in rural Algona will feature live music, camping and all things motorcycle.

The event will be June 29 to July 1 at the group’s Freedom Park, 2507 160th Ave., about 4 miles north of Algona.

This year’s bands include Godessess of Rock, Rukkus, The Jimmys, Iron Cowgirl, Dustin Bogue and Jasmine Cain. Country artist Chris Janson whose hits include “Buy me a boat” and “Holdin’ her” will perform Friday.

Hairball will take the stage Saturday.

The Beer Barn also will featured daily live music.

The event also features a tattoo and beard contest, bike rodeo, burnout pit, dyno, bike show, fireworks, helicopter rides, a sled pull and more.

Advance tickets can be purchased until June 9 for members of ABATE and the Motorcycle Riders Outreach.

Advance tickets are not available for non-members.

Tickets in advance are $40 for single members and $60 per couple. Only one person in a couple needs to be a member to qualify for the rate. At the gate, member tickets are $45. Tickets are $70 for non-members at the gate.

Saturday only tickets are $40.

ABATE stands for A Brotherhood Aimed Toward Education.

FILE PHOTOS

Hundreds of people and motorcycles gather for the ABATE of Iowa Freedom Rally in Algona.

Thousands of motorcyclists gather each year for the annual ABATE of Iowa Freedom Rally in rural Algona. The 2017 rally will be held June 29-July 1.

ABATE of Iowa schedule THURSDAY, JUNE 29 Beer Barn — Cross Eyed Mary and Taint’d Main Stage — Goddesses of Rock, Rukkus and The Jimmys.

FRIDAY, JUNE 30 Beer Barn — Iron Cowgirl and Deliverance Main Stage — Iron Cowgirl, Dustin Bogue and Chris Janson.

SATURDAY, JULY 1 Beer Barn — Midget Wrestling and Jammer.

Main Stage — Iron Cowgirl, Jasmine Cain and Hairball.

Welcome to the end of the day 1406 N. 25th St., Clear Lake

641-357-8954 www.americinn.com

• Spacious Indoor Pool • Whirlpool • Game Room • Free Breakfast • Meeting Room • Internet • Beautiful Large Lobby with Fireplace • Specialty Rooms Including Fireplace & Whirlpool Suites • Cable TV/HBO

Whether it’s business or pleasure, the staff at AmericInn will make sure your stay is relaxing and enjoyable.

HOME OF THE FREE:

Wireless high-speed internet, Long Distance Calls (within the continental U.S.) & Local Calls

• Offers Quality, Comfort, Safety & Value • Cable TV & HBO • Restaurants Adjacent • Free Continental Breakfast 1305 N. 25th St., Clear Lake

641-357-0966 www.microtelinn.com

GLOBE GAZETTE FILE PHOTO

Mason City Motor Speedway is planning on 17 events for 2017.

Gearing up for 2017 Hejna added that starting blake.schultz@globegazette.com each night at 6 p.m. was also a priority as to not make the MASON CITY — Last year’s night longer than it needs to first season under new probe. moters was a raving success for Another point of contention the Mason City Motor Speedearly last year that is more to be on the racing surface. way.

As far as the racing goes, He- ironed out this time around is Car counts were back up, jna couldn’t be more excited to the switch to the United States fans were back in the seats Racing Association. get the season underway. and good racing could be seen While Hejna said it might In a slight change this seaon any given night on the reson, modifieds will run weekly have taken a few drivers a bit vamped surface. But still, Al to get used to it, he added that with a few breaks on nights Hejna, along with fellow promany grew to love the change in which specials will be held moters Todd and Ryne Staley, and want to “race USRA excluat the track, in addition to all weren’t ready to settle with classes taking the night off for sively.” what they had as drivers will With the USRA came bigger Memorial Day and the Fourth see a tweaked version of that paydays, and that’s the one big of July. track.

One of the main things taken draw to the track will remain “What we did was kind of unchanged. If anything, the away from last season that rip the track up in the fall just needed addressed for this year paydays are getting better. to mix it in more because we “We’ve got guys that come didn’t get it exactly the way we was scheduling. Hejna said from all over because we’re there were nights when the wanted last year,” Hejna said.

“And we’re putting more bank- speedway was competing with one of the best paying tracks in the Midwest, as far as a weekly other events in the area which ing into Turns 1 and 2 to make basis,” Hejna said. “This year, lowered the number of fans it a bit more like 3 and 4.” we’ll pay $2,000 to the modiin the crowd or the car counts The track still isn’t up to fied winner, $1,000 to each the par just yet as the weather has slightly, so a few tweaks were stock cars and B modified winmade it tough to get out and do made. ner, $700 to the hobby stock “We’re keeping primarily work, but even after it’s done, winner and $400 to the tuners to Sunday this time because Hejna said they’ll never quite winner, which is more than a be completely finished because last year we tried a few off season championship in a lot nights and there were just too he wants the racing surface to many things going on,” he said. of places. be top notch at all times.

“The way to get cars is to get He added that some work on “Sunday has always been race them paid, and that keeps them the infield is also due to happen night in Mason City, and we coming.” once they get where they want want to keep in that way.”

BLAKE SCHULTZ

2017 MCMS Schedule May 7 – Opening night, USRA weekly racing May 21 – USRA weekly racing June 4 – USRA weekly racing June 11 – USMTS Modifieds June 18 – Father’s Day Special, Coors Light Twin 25s June 25 – USRA weekly racing July 9 – USRA weekly racing July 16 – USRA weekly racing July 19 – Ted Zieman Memorial, featuring Corn Belt Clash Late Models July 20 – Demo derby July 21 – TBA July 23 – USRA weekly racing July 30 – ASCS National Sprint Car Series, plus USRA weekly racing Aug. 6 – USRA weekly racing Aug. 13 – USMTS Modifieds, plus USRA weekly racing Aug. 20 – USRA weekly racing Aug. 27 – Season championships

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

Outdoor opportunities at North Iowa parks COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

North Iowa boasts 50 county parks offering a wide selection of amenities and recreational opportunities.

Whether your goals are a shady picnic spot and a playground, a favored fishing hole or a campground with facilities ranging from primitive to modern, North Iowa’s county parks have plenty of options to fit your needs.

In addition, there are numerous other conservation, wildlife and hunting areas managed by county conservation boards.

Here is a rundown of North Iowa county parks:

LINN GROVE PARK — 518 Madison St. W., Rockwell.

Provides complete camping facilities on 38 acres along a meander of Beaver Dam Creek. There are 66 electrical sites, a shower house, dump station and water fill available.

Camping fees are $12 per night with electricity and $7 per night for a primitive site. No reservations accepted.

SHELL ROCK RIVER GREENBELT & PRESERVE — Nora Springs to Rock Falls. A 7½-mile drive, walk, canoe trip or ride along the limestone bluffs on the Shell Rock River goes through 509 acres of woods, meadows and ponds. Primitive camping and picnic areas available at the preserve.

CERRO GORDO COUNTY

INGEBRETSON PARK — 203 Ash St. E., Thornton. Situated on a branch of Beaver Dam Creek just off Interstate 35. There are 23 campsites with electricity, a shower house, dump station and water fill available. Camping fees are $12 per night with electricity and $7 per night for a primitive site. No reservations accepted.

LIME CREEK CONSERVATION AREA AND NATURE CENTER — 3501 Lime Creek Road, Mason City. An extensive trail network provides space for biking, hiking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing, offering access to a 440-acre diverse, natural area. A nature center offers conservation displays, library and auditorium.

SPRING CREEK PRESERVE — 15829 300th Street, Mason City. The 34-acre park features a spring, limestone bluffs along the creek and fishing access on the Winnebago River.

STRAND PARK — 20057 340th St., Plymouth. The 33-acre park on the Shell Rock River features a tennis and basketball court, playground, picnic area, shelter and canoe access.

WILKINSON PIONEER PARK — 21425 Vine Ave., Rock Falls.

A beautiful 80-acre park with complete camping facilities; 42 electrical sites, shower house, dump station and water fill available. A covered bridge and remnant of native prairie are continued on PAGE F54

We Are Worry-Free Living Many people regard the decision to move to a retirement community as a lifestyle choice that increases their leisure time and gains them access to services and amenities to help maintain their current lifestyle.

SERVICES: • Room: with all utilities (except telephone and cable TV) • Board - 3 meals / day • Weight Monitoring • Blood Pressure monitoring • Medication counseling • Wound Care • Healthcare counseling • Bath assistance • Toenail & Fingernail care • Bedding Change weekly • Two loads of personal laundry weekly.

300 Lyndale St., Osage

(641) 832-2270 801 Blunt Parkway, Charles City

(641) 257-3003 1724 Central Ave. East, Hampton

(641) 456-2309

• • • • • • • •

BUILDING AMENITIES Beautifully decorated single-story apartment building Exterior walking paths & gardens Easy access to free laundry facilities 24-Hour beverage bar in dining room On-site beauty/barber shop • On-site exercise room Free parking • TV Lounge Reading Areas • Private Chapel Use of all common areas... lounge, dining, activity area & more

Serving the community in 4 locations: 405 27th Ave. South Clear Lake Across from State Park

(641) 357-7083

www.pickapplevalley.com

F53

F54

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

located in the park. Camping fees are $12 per night with electricity and $7 per night for a primitive site. No reservations accepted.

FLOYD COUNTY

ACKLEY CREEK PARK — 2775 Indigo Ave. Nestled along Ackley Creek 2 miles southwest of Marble Rock, this park features 37 modern camping sites with electricity and water, 10 primitive camping sites, showers and restrooms, two picnic shelters, a playground and hiking trails in the woods. The cost is $15 per night for modern camping sites and $10 per night for primitive sites.

COLWELL PARK — 2962 140th St. This primitive campground 2½ miles west of Colwell features a picnic shelter and fishing access to the Little Cedar River.

FOSSIL & PRAIRIE PARK PRESERVE AND CENTER — 1227 215th St. Stroll through acres of native Iowa prairie located 1 mile west of Rockford, discover and collect ancient sea life fossils from the quarry and visit the historic beehive kilns used by the Rockford Brick & Tile Co. The Visitor Center, open 1 to 4 p.m. daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day and 1 to 4 p.m. weekends in May, September and October, contains exhibits that interpret the unique features of the park. No admission fee.

GATES BRIDGE ACCESS — 2920 Kirkwood Road. This park along the Shell Rock River 4 miles south of Marble Rock features river access, fishing, picnicking and six primitive campsites.

ROTARY WILDLIFE AREA —1661 Rotary Park Road. This quiet picnic destination near Charles City also is a place for fishing on the Cedar River. The park has an open-sided picnic shelter, hiking trials and river access for canoes.

WEST IDLEWILD CAMPGROUND — 1374 Quarry Road.

This primitive campground 2 miles northwest of Floyd features an improved canoe ramp, fishing access, a picnic shelter, a playground, hunting and hiking trials. The cost for camping is $5 per night.

Wilkinson Pioneer Park and the Shell Rock River Greenbelt near Rock Falls CHRIS ZOELLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

Seasons Lodge, which can be rented.

NORTH HANSELL SHOOTING COMPLEX— Shotgun range, rifle range with targets to 500 yards, a pistol range and an archery range.

Open to public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and from noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays through late fall. There is a $10 per day user fee or a $50 pass for the season.

Application for season pass may be made at the complex.

POPEJOY CONSERVATION PARK — Features picnicking, picnic shelter with electricity, drinking water, restrooms, handicapped access, primitive camping LAURA BIRD, THE GLOBE GAZETTE only, canoeing, rental facilities, sledding/tobogganing, snowmoOne of two ponds at Maynes Grove located south of Hampton. biling and geocaching. The park is MALLORY PARK — Located 61 acres and 1½ miles southwest FRANKLIN COUNTY 4½ miles south and 2 miles west of Popejoy.

CREEDEN PRAIRIE — 5 miles of Hampton. The 71-acre park ROBINSON PARK — 30 acres north and 2 miles east of Hansell, features picnicking, picnic sheland includes picnicking, picnic 420 acres including large plots ter, electricity, drinking water, shelter, electricity, drinking water, of native prairie. The park fearestrooms, handicapped access, restrooms, handicapped access, tures canoeing, fishing, hunting, tent and trailer camping, hiking tent and trailer camping, hiking undeveloped natural area and trails, fi shing. trail, fishing and geocaching. geocaching.

MAYNES GROVE — 280-acre ROLLING PRAIRIE TRAIL — A INGEBRETSON MEMORIAL multi-use recreational trail that GROVE — 2 miles west and 1 mile park is located about 4 miles south of Hampton on Highway 65. has trail heads in both Coulter north of Sheffield. The 118-acre park includes a hiking trail, unde- It includes two ponds which allow and Hampton with a spur to Beeds Lake State Park. It is apveloped natural area, cross coun- fishing, canoeing and kayaking; however, no boat wakes or swim- proximately 13 miles in length try skiing and geocaching. ming are allowed. The park also with the Hampton to Beeds Lake INTERSTATE LAKE PARK features horseback riding, huntstretch surfaced in blacktop and — 26 acres and includes a boat Beeds Lake to Coulter surfaced in ramp, canoeing, fishing, hunting, ing, trails, prairie and timber areas, trails, picnic tables, benches, a crushed lime surface. Great for ice fishing and geocaching. It is a grill shelter, restrooms, a fire biking, walking and snowmobiling 2½ miles west of Coulter and 1 ring, observation tower and Four in the winter time. mile south of Highway 3.

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

WKW CONSERVATION PARK — 54 acres and 1 mile north and 1 mile east of Hampton. It includes picnicking, picnic shelter, electricity, drinking water, restrooms, handicap access, tent and trailer camping, hiking trail, interpretive trail, rental facilities, cross country skiing and geocaching.

HANCOCK COUNTY

CONCORD PARK — A 2-acre park south of Garner. Has a shelter house available to rent for $20 fee.

CRYSTAL LAKE PARK — On the east shore of Crystal Lake at 1045 320th St., rural Forest City.

State park managed by the Hancock County Conservation Board.

It is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

There is a playground, disc golf course, swimming beach, boating, fishing, hiking trail and campground. There are about 15 primitive campsites and 65 modern campsite with electricity for $15 per night. Primitive sites are $10 per night. The shelter house is available for rent for $20 per day.

Three modern log cabins with air conditioning are available for rent by reservation only from April 15 to Nov. 15 for $50 to $80 per night. For detailed information and reservations, go to www.hancock-countyia.org/conservation. html or call 641-923-2720.

EAGLE LAKE STATE PARK — 2510 Lake Ave., Britt, is also managed by the Hancock County Conservation Board. The 21-acre park has a handicapped-accessible bird watching deck, hiking trail, restrooms, playground equipment and shelter house. The shelter house is available for rent for $20 per day.

ELDRED SHERWOOD PARK — 2185 120th St., 3 miles east of Goodell. Has a small lake, horseshoe pits, modern restroom, a 2-mile trail system, shelter house and picnic area. The shelter house is available for rental for $20 per day. A campground offers 40 modern sites with electricity at $15 per night and five primitive campsites for $10 per night. The park is typically open from midApril to mid-October.

MITCHELL COUNTY

CEDAR BRIDGE PARK — Located just west of Osage on Highway 9, this park has 18 designated campsites with electrical

and water hookups, modern toilet and shower facility, playground equipment and a dump station.

Campers must self-register at the entrance. The Cedar River is easy to access from this park for fishing or boating. The Cedar River Greenbelt Trail head is also located nearby. Camping fees for electric sites are $18 per night.

Non-electric sites are $10 per night. This is also an equestrian campground with hitching posts at nine campsites. The fee for equestrian camping is $19 a night.

There is an equestrian dump station that all horse campers are asked to use. A modern cabin is also available for rental year round. For reservation, contact the MCCB office at 641-732-5204.

HALVORSON PARK — This 10.6-acre park is located 1½ miles south of St. Ansgar on Foothill Avenue, along the Cedar River.

The park features boat ramps and docks, handicapped accessible fishing, a swim beach, playground equipment, picnic shelters, modern toilet and shower facility, electric and water hookups and dump station. Approximately 50 non-designated campsites are available with electricity.

Campers must self-register at the entrance. Cost is $18 for electric, $10 without.

INTERSTATE PARK — This scenic park along the Cedar River is located on the west edge of Mitchell on Hickory Avenue. It is the site of the Mitchell Mill Dam and the historic hydro-electric powerhouse. This facility is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the only operating hydro-electric power plants in the state. Boating, fishing, water skiing and swim beach are available. The camping site offers electric and water hookups, dump station, two shelter houses, a modern toilet and shower facility and playground equipment.

Campers must self-register at the entrance. The 40-site campground charges $18 for electric, $10 without.

NEW HAVEN POTHOLES PARK — This 168-acre outdoor classroom has 1½ miles of mowed self-guided nature trails. The area is designed for “quiet type” recreation such as hiking, bird and animal observation, photography continued on PAGE F56

F55

F56

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

and cross-country skiing. Habitats include forest, marsh, prairie and the Little Cedar River. Off-road parking with walk-in access is provided. It is located 6 miles east and 1½ miles north of Osage, just off Shadow Avenue.

OTRANTO PARK — This 5-acre park, located ¼ of a mile east of Otranto on 480th Street, is a 20site, non-designated campground.

It has electrical and water hookups, modern toilet and shower facility, playground equipment, small picnic shelter, small watercraft access and dump station.

It is a popular site to put in on the Cedar River to canoe float.

Campers must self-register at the entrance prior to camping. Cost is $16 for electric, $10 without.

PINICON ALDERS WILDLIFE AREA — This 330-acre area, located ½ mile west of McIntire on 470th Street, provides habitat that includes mature hardwood forest, native prairies and grasslands. The Wapsipinicon River flows through the area and is stocked with trout by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

The area has a newer cabin with electricity. The cabin is furnished with futons, table and chairs, mini fridge, microwave, and a fireplace. Nearby are equestrian, hiking and ski trails. There is electric available and pit toilets. Cost is $40 per night. Contact MCCB for reservation at 641-732-5204.

PIONEER PARK — Located 6 miles east of Osage and 4 miles north on Shadow Avenue. The campground has been updated and has seven designated gravel campsites, with electric and water hookups and pit toilets. The shelter house is totally enclosed with electric and picnic tables. There is a $10 camping fee.

RIVERSIDE PARK — Located just east of Stacyville on 465th Street, on Little Cedar River, has modern toilet and shower facility, electrical and water hookups, dump station, volleyball sand court, regulation softball diamond, shelter house and access for small watercrafts. Cost is $16 for electric sites, $10 without.

WINNEBAGO COUNTY

AMBROSON RECREATION AREA — 3035 Iowa Highway 9, Leland. A former rest area, the multi-use recreation complex contains a mixture of uplands

and wetlands that provide wildlife habitat. Located along the Winnebago River, and containing 21 acres of ponds, the area is popular for fishing. The area is a an access point for the Winnebago River Water Trail. Canoeing and boating with electric motors only.

There are picnic tables, grills, an open shelter, playground and drinking water.

DAHLE PARK — 21179 485th Street, Lake Mills. Situated on the Winnebago River, the park offers fishing in the river and adjacent ponds. There are eight camping spots with electricity and water in a quiet oak timber. Camping is $5 per night. The park is the northern access point for the Winnebago River Water Trail.

FLORENCE RECREATION AREA AND TRAP SHOOTING RANGE — 42435 60th Avenue, Thompson, with a 3-acre, springfed fishing pond. Boating with electric motor only and canoeing is permitted. There are picnic tables, grills, an open shelter and playground. The area also contains restored prairie and is popular with pheasant hunters and trap shooters. Public shooting times are posted on the website.

All are subject to weather.

HOGSBACK WILDLIFE AREA AND TARGET SHOOTING RANGE — 48050 210th Avenue, Lake Mills. Mixed oak forest, bluffs, wildflowers and native grass are popular with deer, squirrel, turkey and wildfowl hunters. Target shooters also enjoy the target shooting range but must use only paper targets — downloadable from www.targetz.com.

LINDEN TOWNSHIP CEMETERY — 38128 90th Avenue, Thompson. Managed by the Winnebago County Conservation Board as a fine example of virgin prairie.

THORPE PARK — 34496 110th Avenue, Forest City. This multiple-use area contains a wetland popular with waterfowl hunters in the fall and 15-acre Lake Catherine which features year-round fishing. There are 15 campsites; 13 with electricity and water, two that are primitive. A rental cabin for up to six people is also available at Lake Catherine for $50 per night on weekdays and $65 per night on weekends. To see the cabin rental calendar, visit www. winnebagoccb.com. To make a

Forest City students on an outdoor adventure. cabin reservation call 641-5653390.

WINNEBAGO RIVER WATER TRAIL — This is one of Iowa’s newer designated water trails.

North canoe put-in is at Dahle Park while south access is at Pammel Park in Forest City. Additional accesses along this 27-mile water trail are located at the Lande River Conservation Area and at Ambroson Recreation Area. A detailed downloadable brochure and map of the Winnebago River Trail can be found at www.winnebagoccb.com or by calling 641565-3390.

641-324-1524. There are eight campsites for $10 per night with self-registration.

WORTH COUNTY LAKE — 1717 420th St. , Kensett. Former gravel pit provides swimming, fishing and location for picnics. There are horseshoe pits, a sand volleyball court, picnic tables, and an open shelter house that can be reserved for $10 by calling 641324-1524.

WRIGHT COUNTY

BINGHAM PARK — 2231 Victor Ave., Rowan. Twelve acres of timber along Iowa River.

LAKE CORNELIA PARK — 1768 WORTH COUNTY O’Brien Ave., Clarion. The 122-acre KUENNEN’S QUARRY — 1555 park owned and maintained by 450th St., Northwood. Two former the Wright County Conservation limestone quarries primarily used Board is located midway between for picnicking, swimming and fish- Clarion and Belmond. There is a beach, boat ramp, harbor, shelter ing. There is a handicapped-accessible fishing pier and concrete house, shower facilities, a ¾-mile grass trail, playground areas for boat ramp. A fully enclosed log cabin shelter house with heat and children and a ball field. Eight campsites are available along air conditioning can be reserved the lakeshore. Seventy campsites for $70 per day. An open shelter can be reserved for $35 by calling have 50-amp outlets and 14 have 641-324-1524. There are six open sewer and water hookups as well.

The campground does not require picnic table pavilions with grills. reservations. Camping is $15 per There is running water and renight for sites with electricity and stroom facilities. $20 per night for sites with water OCHYEE YAHOLA PARK — 1284 495th St. Northwood, offers and electricity.

OAKDALE PARK — 1739 Bucamping, hiking and equestrian chanan Ave., Renwick. This 127trails. There are four campsites in the park with electricity but no acre park is located in a heavily water. Fees are $10 per night with timbered area with woodland self-registration. An open shelter wildflowers along the Boone River. There are two open shelwith a fire ring is available and ters, four campsites and modern can be reserved by calling 641facilities. A shelter house is avail324-1524. able to rent.

SILVER LAKE PARK — 497 PIKES TIMBER — 1850 Quincy 500th St., Northwood, is located on the north shore of Silver Lake. Ave., Belmond. Heavily timbered area with two open shelters, four The park entrance is 200 yards campsites with electricity, a handwest of the fishing jetty which can be spotted from the road. An pumped well and primitive latrine. open shelter overlooks the lake. It Sources: County conservation officials and can be reserved for $10 by calling websites.

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

F57

North Iowa’s state parks provide chance to get away COURTNEY FIORINI

courtney.fiorini@globegazette.com

North Iowa’s six stateowned and state-managed parks offer wonderful opportunities to camp, swim, fish, hike, watch and photograph wildlife and numerous other activities.

While visitors are encouraged to call or email park staff with specific questions using the contact information below, reservations for state park campsites, shelters and other facilities can be made online at iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com or by calling 877427-2757 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Reservation fees are $4 per reservation via the Internet, $6 per reservation via the reservation call center, and the fee applies for each campsite, cabin, lodge, or shelter that is reserved regardless of length of stay.

Cabins, lodges and shelters can be reserved up to 12 months in advance of the time of your stay. Camping reservations can be made up to three months in advance of your planned camping date.

Reservations are accepted for only half of the campsites at most parks, with the rest

ARIAN SCHUESSLER, THE GLOBE GAZETTE

The Beeds Lake Spillway is a popular spot for anglers. available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Beeds Lake

Located 3 miles northwest of Hampton, this park surrounds a 90-acre impoundment fed by Spring Creek.

Fishing, swimming and boating (no-wake speed) are popular. A long causeway crosses the lake and a hiking trail surrounds it.

The dam, lodge, ranger’s house and other structures are of Civilian Conservation

Corps vintage. The park’s beautiful limestone CCC dam is the most photographed dam in the Midwest. Access to the dam is on the east side of the lake. continued on PAGE F58

TWO GREAT SHOPPING EXPERIENCES! BIG CITY SELECTION WITH EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE! OUR PASSION IS FASHION UNIQUE AND EXCITING FASHIONS, ACCESSORIES & GIFTS.

415 Main Avenue, Clear Lake • 641.357.1417 • Hours: Mon Thru Sat 10:00 To 5:00 Memorial Day to Labor Day Sun 11 to 4 • Open until 8 for Thursdays on Main

ONE STOP WORK WEAR STOP NORTH IOWA’S LARGEST INVENTORY OF

520 Hwy 18 East, Clear Lake • 641.357.1913 Hours: Mon - Wed 9am to 6pm • Thurs 9am to 7pm • Fri 9am to 6pm • Sat 9am to 5pm • Sun 11am to 4pm

F58

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

sites with a modern shower, restroom and playground.

Also available are two yurts: round, wood-framed tents with clear domed ceilings.

The park is one of the major boating access points for Clear Lake and features the largest modern boat ramp on the late with an extensive paved area for vehicle and trailer parking.

McIntosh Woods State Park is a popular spot for picnickers. The grassy and shaded picnic areas are a fine place for a family cookout. An open picnic shelter has been built near the boat ramp and can be reserved online.

Contact: 641-829-3847, SAM JEFSON, FOREST CITY SUMMIT McIntosh_Woods@dnr.iowa.

Trails at Pilot Knob offered views of the fall colors on Thursday. gov.

no electric motors only.

The campground has 48 electric and 12 non-electric sites, a modern restroom and shower, shelters, a playground and a youth-only campground.

Contact: 641-581-4835, Pilot_Knob@dnr.iowa.gov.

Ambrose A. Call

This 138-acre park sits 1.5 miles southwest of Algona near the East Fork of the Des Moines River and consists primarily of hilly old-growth woodlands. Shade from the forest’s closed canopy reduces understory, creating favorable conditions for hiking and wildlife viewing. There are about two miles of maintained hiking trails.

10 acres of picnic grounds Thirteen electric and three The park includes several Pilot Knob with tables and grills. The non-electric campsites are picnic shelters as well as an Located 3 miles east of shady picnic areas provide a available only on a first-come, updated stone-and-timber Forest City and 1 mile south great place for a family cookfirst-served basis (no reservalodge. There is a 144-site of Highway 9, this 700-acre tions). A log-cabin-style lodge campground (99 electric) fea- out. Playground equipment wooded park is known for its for small children is located in 13.5 miles of trails (including 8 built in 1928 can be reserved turing updated restroom and the picnic area adjacent to the miles of horseback trails), nat- through the state reservation shower facilities. campground. system. There is a modern The concessionaire offers ural diversity and year-round There are 71 electric camp- scenic beauty. vaulted restroom in the camplive bait, prepared food and sites (including seven with full ground and a pit toilet near the limited grocery items along A large amphitheater, two lodge. with canoe, kayak and paddle- sewer and water hookups) and open picnic shelters and 8 non-electric.

Other attractions include 2 boat rental. the observation tower were The park includes a sidewalk constructed by the Civilian miles of trails, an 18-hole disc A sandy beach for swimparalleling the beach, as well ming is located on the south Conservation Corps in 1934. golf course and an authentic 19th century log cabin that is side of the lake, near the lodge as an approximately half-mile The entrance portals, stone mowed-grass trail through popular for family reunions and causeway. The beautiful shelter, three stone bridges, wooded areas. and wedding receptions. lake, fed by Spring Creek, is amphitheater and observaContact: 641-357-4212, The park is managed by Pia popular destination for antion tower are all listed on Clear_Lake@dnr.iowa.gov. glers, year-round, and bass, the National Register of His- lot Knob State Park. Contact: 641-581-4835, AA_Call@dnr. catfish, and panfish are availtoric Places. iowa.gov. able.

The amphitheater seats McIntosh Woods Contact: 641-456-2047, 1,000 and is a popular wedOn the northwest side of Beeds_Lake@dnr.iowa.gov. ding spot. The 30-foot obClear Lake in the city of VenRice Lake State Park servation tower, at 1,450 feet tura, McIntosh covers 60 This 15-acre wooded park is above sea level, makes claim to located on the southeast lakeacres. Concrete boat ramps, Clear Lake being the second highest point shore of 1,200-acre Rice Lake, a courtesy dock, a modern This 55-acre park on the in Iowa. fish-cleaning station and a southeast of Lake Mills. southeast shore of beautiful Pilot Knob is listed in the large parking lot make this a The CCC-era stone shelter 3,643-acre Clear Lake is best was renovated a few years ago known for its 900-foot beach popular spot with boaters and Iowa Wildlife Viewing Guide and is an exceptional area for anglers. and there is a relatively new and adjacent picnic area with The park has a small swim- bird watching or spying for pit toilet. The park is a popular numerous tables and grills. deer. Wild turkey were introming beach, a playground destination for picnicking, There is also an open picnic duced into the area in 1979 and fishing and wildlife viewing. and an open picnic shelter. A shelter and a WPA-era lodge one-mile nature trail with in- have expanded rapidly.

There is no overnight campwith modern updates.

Eight-acre Dead Man’s Lake ing. terpretive signs winds through This park features rollincludes a 4-acre floating wooded areas and through Motorized boating with ing ground with mature oak sphagnum bog, the only one Mallard Marsh on a walkway any size motor is allowed on groves and several thickets in the state. Many unusual Rice Lake, making it popular that provide homes for various above the marsh that leads to small animals, birds and deer. a wildlife viewing blind where plants inhabit the bog and the for skiing, personal watersurrounding area, attracting a craft and fishing. Fish include you can take photos of waWoodford Island is a 3-acre diversity of wildlife. terfowl, birds and a variety of bass, bluegill, walleye, perch, island managed for wildlife The 15-acre manmade lake wildlife species. northern pike, crappie and habitat and is a great spot for The park includes 45 electric is stocked with bluegills and bullheads. fishing. bass. Boating is permitted, but Contact: 641-581-4835.

The park features more than and four non-electric camp-

GLOBE GAZETTE • EXPLORE SUMMER 2017

Join us for Amazing Sunsets Good Food Food, Great People & Live Music

Every Weekend at The Landing!

LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE

Sunday, y, May ay 28th Friday, June 2nd Friday, June 9th Friday, June 16th Friday, June 23rd Friday, June 30th Saturday, July 1st Monday, July 3rd Friday, July 7th Saturday, July 15th Friday, July 21st Tuesday, July 25th Friday, July 28th Saturday, Aug. 5th Friday, Aug. 11th Sunday, Sept. 3rd

7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 7:30pm

Split Second Band Stubble Trouble HOURS OF OPERATION Larry Myer The Mocking Birds Serving Full Menu Daily 11a 9p Kraft Brothers Breakfast 8:30 10:30am on Sat & Sun* The Duovers *Breakfast served from Memorial Day Karisa Hoover Weekend thru Labor Day Weekend You Knew Me When Hard Salami Dueling Pianos Mark Miller Band Check out all that that’ss new in 2017: Spenser Rahm New Trick Band www.StayClearLake.com Split Second Band Sun Dogs Band Kraft Brothers

For the latest updates, follow us on Facebook

THE LANDING on Clear Lake

F59

F60

EXPLORE SUMMER 2017 • GLOBE GAZETTE

YOUR KIND OF

PLACE Featuring over 950 slots and video poker machines.

Plus live blackjack, craps, roulette, poker room and more!

Dine at our award winning restaurants. Elegant dining at Woodfire Grille or casual dining at The Kitchen Buffet.

Dance and listen live as national and regional acts perform at the Big Wheel Bar every weekend.

Rest your head at one of our hotels. Accommodations include the Country Inn & Suites and Holiday Inn Express.

Must be 21 or older.

If you or someone you know needs gambling treatment, call 1-800-BETS OFF.

LOCATED 25 MINUTES NORTH ON I-35 / EXIT 214.

777 Diamond Jo Lane, Northwood, IA | DiamondJo.com