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Panora City Council revisits lack of water meter access in apartment building

Feb 10, 2026 | News

By Shane Goodman | Times Vedette

The regular meeting of the Panora City Council was held on Monday, Feb. 9 with the bulk of the meeting dedicated to a follow-up discussion on the lack of water meter access to an apartment building, as well as a budget workshop review of the fiscal year 2027 city budget. 

Water Distribution Superintendent Ismael Galvan addressed the council over an ongoing concern about access to water meters at a multi-unit apartment building, noting that upon further inspection, one of the tenants in the building changed the locks, and they no longer have access to the meters.

Galvan noted how it would not be fair to shut water off to everyone in the building because of the decisions of one tenant. “But, we need access,” he said. 

After lengthy discussion, the council suggested that Galvan research the crawl space in the building for meter access before they pursue other options. 

In other news, the councilmembers approved a class E Retail Alcohol License for Panora Hometown foods – Reinhart Bros Inc. The council also received a copy of the City Council Personal Code of Conduct, and councilmembers are to review and sign.

In addition, the council approved Resolution 26-07, which is the Restated Plan for the Panora Urban Revitalization Area. The council also approved a corresponding ordinance, the First Reading of Ordinance 361, Amending Ordinances Designating an Area of Panora, Iowa as the Panora Urban Revitalization Area. The council approved this and voted to waive the second and third readings. 

The council also approved Resolution 26-08, approving a set time and date for a public hearing to hear comments regarding a proposed FY26 Budget Amendment for General Fund Transfers that was previously approved. Resolution 26-09 was also approved, allowing a revision to the Employee Handbook relating to an updated on pay increases for electric utility certifications. In addition, former councilmember Shane Gliem was appointed as a member to the Planning and Zoning Commission.

The council held a budget workshop for fiscal year 2027 and reviewed the proposed budget that was presented by City Administrator Lisa Grossman. 

The next regular meeting is set for Monday, Feb. 9 at 5:30 p.m. The public is welcome. Interested persons may attend in person or electronically by visiting the website https://meet.goto.com/cityofpanora or by phone 1-312-757-3121 (Access Code 295-099-701, Audio PIN 220#).

Stark’s Performance Horses offers ‘Western pleasure horsemanship’

Feb 9, 2026 | News

Safety and fun go hand-in-hand at Stark’s Performance Horses.

Clients learn to ride horses as well as the various chores involved in horsemanship, including brushing and grooming.

By Rich Wicks | Panora Times, January 2026

Dana and Dan Stark of rural Panora (1977 A Ave.) own and operate Stark’s Performance Horses. Dana shared how the business started and her philosophy. 

Dana and Dan Stark of Stark’s Performance Horses.

“I grew up in northwest Indiana, and I was a 4-H member. I always loved horses, and I wanted to be a horse trainer. When I moved here, we bought this place in 2008, and I did some lessons. So, I ended up working for a trainer, and I did some lessons for him. Then I took a break to have kids,” Dana said. “When I came back, I decided I wanted to put up my own barn on my own property and start my lessons again.”

Dana explained the basic approach she takes with the clients she works with.

“We mainly have paint horses and quarter horses,” she said. “In my opinion, they make the best kids’ horses. I always tell people we’re a how-to barn. So, at first you learn how to touch a horse, and eventually you learn how to ride a horse. We do a lot of what’s called Western pleasure horsemanship. Think of more of a leisurely, comfortable ride.”

Most of Stark’s clients are children, starting as young as age 4.

“I have a couple riders in the 4- to 6-year-old range. They’re always on a line and led by me,” Dana said. “Usually around the age of 6, they get comfortable and can ride by themselves.”

Dana said that many riders in the 6-plus-year-old range are ready to join group lessons rather than individual lessons. Another point that Dana clarified is that her clients do not need to own a horse. She is happy to match up a horse with a client, based on size and ability. 

 For those who imagine becoming a horseback barrel racer or rodeo star or professional jockey, Stark’s does not offer those types of lessons. 

“We do trail class, not trail riding. I don’t do any type of fast activities.” 

Dana also emphasizes that her clients need to learn the various chores involved in horsemanship, including brushing and grooming horses.

“Tack cleaning, the parts of the saddle, the parts of the bridle,” Dana said.

Dan and Dana noted that the recent popularity of the TV show “Yellowstone” has brought more families into the horse-riding hobby. 

“It’s about cattle ranching in the Yellowstone area,” Dan said.

“Ever since ‘Yellowstone,’ so many kids are interested in horses. And as somebody that’s been in 4-H and gone through all the stuff, I love it,” Dana said. “There are a lot of people interested in horses now.”

Dana noted that she works with riders throughout the year, but the warmer months are the busiest season. 

“I have about 20 kids I work with and I do about 20 hours a week in lessons. I have a variety of ages. I have the kids 5-9 years old, and then the teenagers, and a group of 65 and older,” Dana said. “I have what I call my moms’ group.”

“The entire program is designed around not just riding around in circles but learning everything you need to know to properly be a horse owner,” Dan said.

Dan shared a favorite story of a shy young rider who quickly gained confidence with horses.

“She loved horses but was super shy. When she first started coming, she was super nervous,” he said. “And then she won a buckle at the State Fair last year.”

The Starks make sure safety is a top priority.

“We go over all safety information. We teach how to lead a horse, where to stand, and all the basic knowledge,” Dana said.

Another offering from the Starks is that if a rider bonds with a particular horse, the family is welcome to buy that horse, if they wish.

“Part of my business plan is purchasing horses and putting them through the program, and, ideally at the end of the program, someone will purchase that horse for their own,” Dana said. “That’s what I’m looking to do is provide more kids a quality horse at an affordable price.”

For anyone interested in learning more, check out the Stark’s Performance Horses Facebook page. 

Dana Stark (in yellow) with clients on horseback.

Guthrie County Sheriff’s Office Weekly Report — Feb. 2-8, 2026

Feb 9, 2026 | Guthrie County Sheriff's Report

2-2-26

  • 1:15 a.m. Panora Ambulance responded to a medical call in Jamaica
  • 9:46 a.m. Guthrie County Sheriff transported an inmate from the Polk County Jail to the Guthrie County Jail on an active Guthrie County warrant
  • 12:30 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a complaint of a scam call in rural Panora
  • 1:22 p.m. Panora Ambulance responded to a lift assist request in rural Panora
  • 1:42 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy assisted a motorist in Guthrie Center
  • 6:26 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy attempted to serve a civil paper in rural Casey
  • 6:32 p.m. Guthrie County Deputies responded to a family situation in rural Bayard
  • 7:12 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a report of harassment in Guthrie Center 
  • 7:25 p.m. Guthrie County Deputies performed a civil stand-by in Bayard
  • 7:55 p.m. Guthrie County Deputies responded to a domestic situation in rural Casey
  • 8:07 p.m. Panora Ambulance responded to a medical call in rural Panora
  • 8:52 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy attempted to serve a civil paper in Guthrie Center

 

2-3-26

  • 5:47 a.m. Guthrie County Sheriff and Chief Deputy responded to a report of suspicious person on Jaguar Trail
  • 6:45 a.m. Guthrie County Sheriff responded to a car vs. deer accident on Highway 25 south of Guthrie Center
  • 7:15 a.m. Guthrie County Chief Deputy checked on a disabled motorist in rural Casey
  • 8 a.m. Guthrie County Reserve Deputy transported an inmate to a facility in Des Moines
  • 8:16 a.m. Panora Police assisted an individual 
  • 8:25 a.m. Guthrie County Deputy performed a welfare check in Guthrie Center
  • 8:36 a.m. Panora Ambulance responded to a medical call in Guthrie Center
  • 10:15 a.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a report of a car vs. deer accident in rural Dexter
  • 12:15 p.m. Stuart Police responded to a complaint at the high school
  • 1:15 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a complaint in rural Coon Rapids
  • 1:20 p.m. Panora Ambulance and Guthrie County Sheriff responded to a medical call in rural Panora
  • 3:50 p.m. Stuart Police responded to an animal complaint
  • 4:05 p.m. Stuart Police responded to a complaint at the high school
  • 4:20 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy took a fraud report in Guthrie Center
  • 4:45 p.m. Panora Ambulance responded to a medical call in Guthrie Center
  • 5:25 p.m. Guthrie County Deputies served a court order in Guthrie Center
  • 8:48 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a driving complaint in Bayard
  • 10:29 p.m. Panora Police responded to a report of a fight 
  • 10:45 p.m. Panora Police and Guthrie County Deputy performed a welfare check in Panora

 

2-4-26

  • 12:40 a.m. Guthrie County Deputy checked on a disabled vehicle in rural Guthrie Center
  • 9:10 a.m. Stuart Police responded to a complaint at Kwik Star
  • 10:25 a.m. Panora Ambulance responded to a medical call in Panora
  • 10:47 a.m. Guthrie County Deputy followed up on an investigation in Guthrie Center
  • 12:33 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy served a civil paper in rural Adair
  • 4:02 p.m. Panora Police responded to a complaint
  • 4:36 p.m. Guthrie County Deputies located and arrested an individual in Guthrie Center on a Dallas County arrest warrant
  • 6:08 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy transported one male to the Dallas County line and transferred custody to a Dallas County Deputy
  • 6:20 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy served a civil paper in rural Panora
  • 7:30 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy followed up on an investigation in Guthrie Center
  • 9:30 p.m. Stuart Police, Guthrie, Dallas, and Adair County Deputies responded to a report of a robber in Stuart
  • 11:40 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy put down an injured deer in rural Yale

 

2-5-26

  • 4:48 a.m. Stuart Rescue responded to a medical call in Stuart
  • 6:23 a.m. Guthrie County Deputy removed debris from the roadway in rural Panora
  • 7:56 a.m. Guthrie County Deputy put an injured deer down in rural Guthrie Center
  • 8:47 a.m. Guthrie County Deputies, Guthrie Center Fire and Panora Ambulance responded to a vehicle accident in Guthrie Center
  • 10:30 a.m. Guthrie County Sheriff transported an inmate to Greene County for court
  • 11:20 a.m. Stuart Police assisted an individual
  • 12:55 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy followed up on an accident investigation in Guthrie Center
  • 1:21 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy served a civil paper in Guthrie Center
  • 1:50 p.m. Stuart Fire assisted Dexter Fire with a call in Redfield
  • 2:37 p.m. Stuart Police responded to a report of suspicious activity
  • 2:50 p.m. Panora Ambulance responded to a medical call in rural Guthrie Center
  • 2:55 p.m. Stuart Police responded to an animal complaint
  • 5:40 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a trespass complaint in rural Casey
  • 5:47 p.m. Stuart Rescue and Stuart Police responded to a medical call in Stuart
  • 6:18 p.m. Stuart Police responded to a harassment complaint
  • 7:15 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy attempted to serve a civil paper in rural Panora
  • 7:40 p.m. Panora Ambulance and Guthrie County Sheriff and Deputy responded to a medical call in rural Bayard
  • 7:47 p.m. Stuart Police responded to a report of suspicious activity
  • 8:15 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to an animal complaint in Bayard
  • 9:20 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy attempted to serve a civil paper in rural Panora
  • 10:56 p.m. Stuart Ambulance responded to a medical call in Casey

 

2-6-26

  • 6:33 a.m. Stuart Rescue responded to a medical call in Stuart
  • 10:21 a.m. Stuart Rescue responded to a medical call at Community Care Center
  • 10:31 a.m. Guthrie County Deputy served a civil paper in Guthrie Center
  • 11:35 a.m. Stuart Police responded to a report of identity theft
  • 12:15 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy transported an inmate from Carroll County to the Guthrie County Jail
  • 1:21 p.m. Stuart Police responded to a report of suspicious activity
  • 1:30 p.m. Stuart Rescue responded to a medical call in Stuart
  • 1:46 p.m. Stuart Police responded to an animal complaint 
  • 2:29 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy assisted Adair Ambulance and Adair Police with a medical call in Adair
  • 4:34 p.m. Stuart Police assisted a motorist 
  • 5:39 p.m. Stuart Police removed debris off of the roadway 
  • 6:12 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy removed debris off of Wagon Road
  • 7:37 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy served civil papers at Lake Diamondhead 
  • 8:47 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a driving complaint on Highway 141 in Bagley 
  • 9:01 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a driving complaint on Highway 141/ Highway 25

 

2-7-26

  • 2:51 a.m. Stuart Police responded to a parking complaint 
  • 5:20 a.m. Menlo Fire responded to a report of a suspicious smell in Menlo 
  • 6:47 a.m. Guthrie County Deputy assisted a motorist in Guthrie Center 
  • 8:22 a.m. Stuart Police and Ambulance responded to a medical call in Stuart 
  • 11:39 a.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a driving complaint on Wagon Road
  • 1:24 p.m. Stuart Fire and Ambulance responded to a grass fire in rural Stuart 
  • 1:36 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a parking complaint in Bayard
  • 2:22 p.m. Panora Ambulance responded to a medical call at Lake Panorama 
  • 4:58 p.m. Panora Ambulance transported a patient from Guthrie County Hospital back to LakeSide Village
  • 6:07 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy, Menlo Fire and Stuart Ambulance responded to a smell of smoke in a residence in Menlo 
  • 11:30 p.m. Stuart Ambulance responded to a medical call in Stuart 

 

2-8-26

  • 12:12 a.m. Guthrie County Deputy was in a high speed pursuit on Highway 44
  • 12:45 a.m. Guthrie County Sheriff responded to a domestic in Casey 
  • 1:15 a.m. Guthrie County Deputy transported one male to Guthrie County Jail 
  • 1:21 a.m. Stuart Ambulance responded to a medical call in Menlo
  • 1:42 a.m. Panora Ambulance responded to a medical call at Lake Panorama 
  • 1:54 a.m. Guthrie County Sheriff transported one male to Guthrie County Jail 
  • 6:41 a.m. Stuart Ambulance responded to a medical call in rural Redfield 
  • 8:15 a.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a lift assist in rural Guthrie Center 
  • 12:21 p.m. Panora Ambulance responded to a medical call in Jamaica 
  • 12:59 p.m. Panora Ambulance responded to a medical call in Guthrie Center 
  • 1:27 p.m. Stuart Fire and Ambulance responded to a grass fire in rural Stuart 
  • 1:29 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a report of harassment in Casey 
  • 1:49 p.m. Casey Fire responded to a grass fire in rural Casey 
  • 2:33 p.m. Panora Fire and Ambulance responded to a vehicle fire in rural Panora 
  • 2:41 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy assisted a pedestrian in rural Bayard 
  • 3:39 p.m. Guthrie County Deputy responded to a car vs deer accident in rural Guthrie Center 

Forrest Paul Schnobrich

Feb 9, 2026 | Obituaries

1942-2026

Forrest Paul Schnobrich, 83, affectionately known as “Brick” to his friends and family, passed away on Feb. 5, 2026, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, leaving behind a legacy of love, wisdom and passion. Born on Nov. 22, 1942, in the small town of Avery to Everall and Winona (Gailey) Schnobrich, Forrest was raised in the nurturing community of Casey, where he developed a lifelong love for sports and education.

Forrest’s journey through life was marked by his devotion to his family. He was united in marriage to Carolyn Smith on Aug. 6, 1966, and together they were blessed with two daughters, Amy and Tracy. His family later grew to include wife, Carol Ann, whom he married on July 21, 1992. Carol Ann brought two stepchildren, Brett and Bryan Cushman, who respected and thought highly of Forrest, into the fold, and together they enjoyed a life filled with joy and companionship. Forrest was a devoted grandfather to Bryce, Brock, Lauryn, Becca, Tate and Trey. You could find Forrest in attendance at their various activities throughout the years. They will fondly remember the stories he shared and the love he had for them.

Forrest’s educational pursuits were a testament to his love for learning and athleticism. He graduated from Adair-Casey High School in 1961, where he excelled in all four sports, with a particular passion for basketball. His academic talents took him to Northwest Missouri State University, where he joined the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity and further honed his leadership skills.

After college, Forrest embarked on a career in education, teaching and coaching at Atlantic High School from 1965 to 1967. His life took a turn when he was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War in 1968. He served his country with pride and was honorably discharged in 1970 as an E-4. Forrest continued his teaching and coaching career in North English and West Union until 1973, when he returned home to become an insurance agent for Mertes Insurance in Adair and eventually becoming owner of the Insurance Store Ltd. His dedication to his clients was unwavering, and he continued to serve them until his passing. Forrest’s entrepreneurial ventures also led him to own Scooters and Brick’s Cafe in West Des Moines and Grimes for a time.

Forrest’s commitment to his community was evident through his membership at the Casey United Methodist Church and the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of which he was a founding member, and these churches provided him with hope and inspiration. His active involvement in various organizations such as the Adair Lions Club, Adair Chamber, VFW, American Legion, Casey Service Club, and the Independent Insurance Agents of Iowa, where he served as past president, showcased his dedication to service. He was particularly proud of his work with the Guthrie County Hospital Board and Foundation, the Iowa Gold Star Museum at Camp Dodge, and his contributions to the Guthrie County Youth Association and the Boys and Girls Club of Central-Southwest Iowa. He was also a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge, Eastern Star and a Shriner.

Forrest “Brick” Schnobrich will be remembered not only for his professional achievements and community involvement but more so for the warmth and wisdom he brought into the lives of those around him. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide his family, friends and community for generations to come.

Preceded in death by his parents, Everall and Winona Schnobrich, and his beloved in-laws, Byrle and Deloris Spillers, along with his brother-in-law James Kirkpatrick.

Left behind to remember Forrest are his wife, Carol Ann, his daughters Amy (Bill) Littler, Tracy (Kelly) Troster, stepsons Brett (Dee Welch) Cushman and Bryan Cushman, grandchildren Bryce (Chelsea) Littler, Brock (Cloe Hoyt) Littler, Lauryn Troster, Becca Littler, Tate Troster and Trey Troster, sisters-in-law Tana Kirkpatrick and Sheila (Mark) Edwards. Also left behind are all the friends and colleagues he had made through the years. Forrest’s memory will be cherished by all who knew him. His loving, wise and passionate nature touched the lives of many, and his absence will be profoundly felt.

Visitation with viewing will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026, at the Casey United Methodist Church in Casey. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026, also at the Casey United Methodist Church.

Interment with cremains will immediately follow the service at Dalmanutha Cemetery, rural Casey, where full military honors will be accorded. There will be a luncheon at the Casey Community Building following interment.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Forrest Schnobrich Memorial Fund. Memorials will be designated to organizations that were meaningful to Forrest during his lifetime. Contributions may be sent in care of Johnson Family Funeral Home & Crematory, P.O. Box 246, Stuart, Iowa 50250.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at

DeVona ‘Dee Dee’ Buchanan

Feb 9, 2026 | Obituaries

1943-2026 

DeVona Pearl Buchanan, lovingly known as “DeeDee,” age 82, was born on Nov. 8, 1943, in Rapid City, South Dakota. Her parents were Bill and Sandie Stevens. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend, DeeDee passed away peacefully on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at Edencrest at Kettlestone in Waukee.

DeeDee grew up in South Dakota and Wyoming and graduated from Interstate 35 High School in Truro in 1961. She went on to attend Americana Academy, graduating from beauty school in 1963. On Dec. 20, 1963, she married Edward Buchanan. DeeDee spent the majority of her career owning and operating her own hair salon. She retired when she and Ed moved to Lake Panorama in Panora. They were longtime members of St. Cecilia Catholic Church.

Throughout her life, DeeDee embraced adventure and connection. She enjoyed camping, golfing, snow skiing, water skiing, gardening and traveling alongside Ed across the country. An avid traveler, she proudly visited all 50 states and numerous countries. Above all, DeeDee cherished time spent with her family and friends and fondly treasured the many winters she and Ed spent in Orange Beach, Alabama.

DeeDee is survived by her son, Bill (Malloree) Buchanan of Raphine, Virginia; her daughter, Tonia (Stan) Rouse of Dexter; her grandchildren, Tyler and Tanner Buchanan, and Kyl, John and Katelynn Rouse; her siblings, Sherry (Roger) Mason, Ginny Stevens, Joni (Larry) Nelson and Kelly (Sandy) Stevens; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Buchanan, and her parents, Bill and Sandie Stevens.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral Mass will be 10 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, Panora.  Visitation will be Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, from 5-7 p.m. with a Rosary at 7 p.m. at the Twigg Funeral Home, Panora. Burial of her cremains will be in the Conway Cemetery, Conway.