Special to the Times Vedette

On Feb. 9, Guthrie County Hospital announced approval of a $46 million renovation project, marking a historic investment in the future of health care for Guthrie County and the surrounding communities.

The comprehensive renovation will modernize existing facilities, expand clinical capabilities and enhance patient-centered care while maintaining the hospital’s long-standing commitment to serving rural Iowa. The project is designed to improve patient experience, enhance patient privacy, support medical staff and ensure the hospital can meet the evolving health care needs of the region for decades to come.

Hospital leadership worked closely with hospital staff, architects and construction partners to ensure the project reflects both best practices in modern health care design and the unique needs of our patients.

“Guthrie County Hospital has been a cornerstone of this community for decades,” said Christopher Stipe, hospital CEO. “This project honors that legacy while building a facility that supports advanced care, workforce recruitment and long-term sustainability. Having virtually no debt, the hospital is in a strong financial position. With the assistance of the USDA, local banks and other financial partners, we feel it is the right time to proceed with the project.”

The project includes new construction for the lobby, laboratory, sleep lab, IV services area, MRI addition and kitchen with updated serving and dining spaces. Clinic and specialty clinic areas, along with the physical therapy and fitness center, will be expanded and remodeled. Updates and improvements are also planned for the emergency room, surgical department and inpatient rooms. In addition, the renovation will include a new conference center with meeting rooms available for community use.

“Guthrie County Hospital is one of the most important institutions serving Guthrie County. Continuing to update health care services is essential to meeting the needs of all residents, particularly as the county’s population continues to age,” said Brian Johnson, Guthrie County Supervisor.

The renovation and expansion will be completed in phases over 30 months to minimize disruption to patient care and hospital operations.

“This renovation represents more than brick and mortar — it’s an investment in the health, safety and well-being of our community,” said Dennis Flanery, director of the Guthrie County Hospital Foundation. “By upgrading our facilities, we are ensuring that high-quality, accessible care remains close to home for future generations. This is a great way to kick off our 75^th anniversary for the hospital.”

Additional details, including project timelines and opportunities for community engagement and support, will be shared in the coming months by the hospital and the foundation.

For more information about the renovation or the Guthrie County Hospital Foundation, visit https://guthriecountyhospital.org or contact Dennis Flanery at 641-332-3879.

Photos by Betty Cooper | Special to the Times Vedette

A youth cheer clinic was hosted by the Panorama basketball cheerleaders who performed at half time of the girls game on Friday. 

Click images to enlarge.

By Shane Goodman | Times Vedette

The Panora Chamber of Commerce held its Community Gala on Saturday, Feb. 7 at the Captain’s Pick at the Lake Panorama Conference Center with more than 135 attendees. The event brought together many new members and longtime supporters. Guests enjoyed a meal from The Captain’s Pick, great conversation, and live music by Jackie Johnson and Paul Hart with the Riverside Drive Duo.

During the evening, the chamber highlighted the 2025 goals and achievements with reflections from Past President Angie Worth and comments from current 2026 President Dave Grove, who shared a glimpse of what’s ahead. Jaime Waddle, the treasurer of the chamber, was also recognized for her ongoing contributions to the betterment of organization. 

Photos by Nicole Crusinberry Photography

Click images to enlarge

Photos by Shane Goodman

Click images to enlarge.

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

The Guthrie County Board of Supervisors met in regular session on Feb. 10. County Treasurer Brenda Campbell and County Engineer Josh Sebern provided departmental updates.

Sebern spoke regarding two proposed resolutions regarding County Line Road east of Stuart. The road is shared with Adair County. Sebern explained that Resolution 26-22 would reduce the service on a portion of the road to Level B. Resolution 26-23 would vacate a portion of the road. 

“It’s in their 28E jurisdiction, so it’s theirs to take the lead on,” Sebern said. “We have to set up a joint Board of Supervisors meeting, virtually.”

The supervisors voted to set the joint public hearings. The date and time will be coordinated with Adair County.

A Liquor License renewal for Shootout Saloon and a new Liquor License for Golden Outdoors were approved.

In the “Supervisors Updates” portion of the meeting, Supervisor Brian Johnson provided a legislative update.

“The pipeline bill, they’re negotiating, some of the leaders are. And the tax bill will continue to evolve as they go through the process,” he said.

Sebern noted that because the county road crew has not needed to spend much time plowing snow or treating roadways, they have been running chainsaws to remove trees in some areas.

The supervisors meet regularly on Tuesdays at 9 a.m. The public is welcome to attend in person at the courthouse or via remote technology. To join remotely, call 323-792-6123, then use meeting code 547029216#

By Shane Goodman | Times Vedette

The Yale Fire Department held its 24^th annual pancake breakfast on Sunday, Feb. 9  from 7 a.m. to noon at the Yale Community Building. Pancakes, eggs, sausage, and biscuits and gravy were served as a fundraiser for the department. Food was prepared and served by department members. 

Kelly Kirtley and Cathy Ohm

Dan and Tammy Russell

Natalie and Henry Genovese

Mary Dorsett, Bette Donahey and Jean Higgins

Dave and Barb Ryan

Merlin Clark

Dailen Steiner

Logan Wolf

Zach Spencer

Chris Little

Mike Carey