By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

Open House at Tori’s Angels Aug. 28

On Friday, Aug. 28 from 4-6 p.m., the public is invited to the new office of Tori’s Angels. The office is at 110 East Main St. in Panora, and the location is shared with the office of BH Real Estate and Consulting. Refreshments and light hors d’oeuvres will be served. Come and learn more about how Tori’s Angels supports Iowa families who have a child facing life-threatening conditions.

Springbrook 100^th Celebration Aug. 28 and 29

The public is invited to help celebrate 100 years of Springbrook State Park (2437 160^th Road, Guthrie Center). Scheduled events include (at campground gazebo unless noted otherwise):

Friday, Aug. 28

• 8:30 p.m.: Fire and marshmallow roast (meet at the CCC shelter)
• 9 p.m.: Full moon guided hike (meet at the CCC shelter)

Saturday, Aug. 29

• 9 a.m.: Guided exploration hike and learning the history of Springbrook State Park
• 10 a.m.: Rose’s Krafty Korner
• 11 a.m.: Kayaking at the beach (kayaks and life jackets provided or bring your own). No experience needed; kids younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• 2 p.m.: Ambassador animals meet and greet
• 2 p.m.: Slack line and crafting
• 3 p.m.: Insect investigations
• 4 p.m.: Atlatl (spear throwing)
• 5 p.m.: Music jam/folk circle (bring a chair, and an instrument if you wish)
• 6 p.m.: Free picnic (brats, hot dogs and chips provided; bring beverage and chair)

High Five Fridays at GC Elementary

Individuals and groups are welcome to sign up to provide “high fives” and similar encouragement at one of the High Five Fridays, 7:30-8:05 a.m. at Guthrie Center Elementary School. Contact gcchamberofcommerce@gmail.com to check availability of any particular Fridays.

Free grief support group in Panora this fall

Beginning Sept. 8 and running through Dec. 8, a free grief support group will meet at the Panora Public Library (102 North First St.) on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. To register, go to www.griefshare.org or call Carla Kem at 641-332-3006.

Blues and BBQ Aug. 29 at Boulder Beach

On Saturday, Aug. 29, from 4-7 p.m., great music and food will be on tap at Lake Panorama’s Boulder Beach. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to listen to live music by the Brick’N Bob Duo. Tickets cost $40 each and can be purchased from any LPA or LPN member, or by emailing Shanell.wagler@gmail.com. Proceeds will support improvements at Lake Panorama National.

Guthrie County Fair Sept. 3-7

The 2026 Guthrie County Fair will be held Sept. 3-7 at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds in Guthrie Center. The Guthrie County Fair has been an established venue since 1858. Located on the west edge of Guthrie Center, the fairground is centrally located in the county. The fair is held annually over Labor Day weekend, providing a long weekend of fun and family-oriented events. See details at www.guthriecountyfair.com.

Guthrie County Fair 5K Sept. 5

Runners and walkers are encouraged to join the Guthrie County Fair 5K on Saturday, Sept 5 at the fairgrounds. The course is flat and fun. Registration will open that day at 7:30 a.m., with the 5K to begin at 8 a.m. Participants can register online now through Sept. 2. Cost is $30 (or 15 without a T-shirt). Proceeds will support the ACGC cross country teams. To register, go to https://synergywellness5k-2026.itemorder.com/shop/home

ACGC Car and Truck Show Sept. 12

The fourth annual ACGC car and truck show will be held at Mitchell Park in Guthrie Center. There is a $20 entry fee for exhibitors, with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. All makes and models are welcome. Spectators are admitted free. For more information, contact ffa@acgcschools.org.

BBQ Cook-off in Stuart Sept. 18-19

Fun and food will be enjoyed at the Best of the Block BBQ Cook-off in downtown Stuart on Sept. 18 and 19. The fest kicks off on Friday, Sept. 18 with a freewill donation chili feed at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 offers a Legion breakfast, games and kids’ events, caricatures, a vendor fair, BBQ awards, pie auction and raffle, BBQ meat fest and street dance with live music. The complete schedule can be viewed on the Facebook page of Stuart Best of the Block BBQ. The event will raise funds for the Cottage Pantry and the American Legion.

Send your event information to rich@gctimesnews.com.       

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

Flannel Crawl in Guthrie Center Aug. 22

A full day of food, fun and shopping awaits on Saturday, Aug. 22 in downtown Guthrie Center. For $50 per person, attendees will enjoy meditation at Sapphire Skin, breakfast at the Café, shopping at local stores and the farmers market, lunch and drinks at Incredi-Bowl. The event runs 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Only 50 spots are available. Proceeds will go back to participating businesses. To register, contact Kristina Swensen at gcchamberofcommerce@gmail.com.

Panorama Hangout Aug. 23

Panorama Schools kids, parents and guardians are invited to come have a fun afternoon 3-5 p.m. on Sunday, before the start of the school year, at the Panora town square. The event will include games, popcorn, root beer floats, and a few more surprises to be added.

Casey Send-off Aug. 23

The public is welcome to join the Casey Summer Send-off beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 23 at the Casey Community Building. Food and drinks will be available from the Casey Service Club for a freewill donation.  At 8:30 p.m., the movie “Up” will be shown. Free popcorn will be provided, and candy and soda will be available for purchase. Yard games face painting and crafts will be offered. Rolling Hills Bank will provide goodie bags.

Little Chargers Grill-out Aug. 24

The public is invited to support the Little Chargers Early Learning Center by enjoying a meal of burgers, chips and dessert on Monday, Aug. 24 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. (or until sold out). The meal is available for a freewill donation. Little Chargers is at 207 Park Ave. in Guthrie Center.

Open House at Tori’s Angel Aug. 28

On Friday, Aug. 28 from 4-6 p.m., everyone is invited to the new office of Tori’s Angels. The office is at 110 East Main in Panora, and the location is shared with the office of BH Real Estate and Consulting. Refreshments and light hors d’oeuvres will be served. Come and learn more about how Tori’s Angels supports Iowa families who have a child facing life-threatening conditions.

Springbrook 100^th Celebration Aug. 28 and 29

Everyone is invited to help celebrate 100 years of Springbrook State Park (2437 160^th Road, Guthrie Center). Scheduled events include (at campground gazebo unless noted otherwise):

Friday, Aug. 28

• 8:30 p.m.: Fire and marshmallow roast
• 9 p.m.: Full moon guided hike

Saturday, Aug. 29

• 9 a.m.: Guided exploration hike and learning the history of Springbrook State Park
• 10 a.m.: Rose’s Krafty Korner
• 11 a.m.: Kayaking at the beach (kayaks and life jackets provided or bring your own). No experience needed; kids younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• 2 p.m.: Ambassador animals meet and greet
• 2 p.m.: Slack line and crafting
• 3 p.m.: Insect investigations
• 4 p.m.: Atlatl (spear throwing)
• 5 p.m.: Music jam/folk circle (bring a chair, and an instrument if you wish)
• 6 p.m.: Free picnic (brats, hot dogs and chips provided; bring beverage and chair)

High Five Fridays at GC Elementary

Individuals and groups are welcome to sign up to provide “high fives” and similar encouragement at one of the High Five Fridays, 7:30-8:05 a.m. at Guthrie Center Elementary School. Contact gcchamberofcommerce@gmail.com to check availability of any particular Fridays.

Free grief support group in Panora this fall

Beginning Sept. 8 and running through Dec. 8, a free grief support group will meet at the Panora Public Library (102 North First St.) on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. To register, go to www.griefshare.org or call Carla Kem at 641-332-3006.

Blues and BBQ Aug. 29 at Boulder Beach

On Saturday, Aug. 29, from 4-7 p.m., great music and food will be on tap at Lake Panorama’s Boulder Beach. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to listen to live music by the Brick’N Bob Duo. Tickets cost $40 each and can be purchased from any LPA or LPN member, or by emailing Shanell.wagler@gmail.com. Proceeds will support improvements at Lake Panorama National.

Guthrie County Fair Sept. 3-7

The 2026 Guthrie County Fair will be held Sept. 3-7 at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds in Guthrie Center. The Guthrie County Fair has been an established venue since 1858. Located on the west edge of Guthrie Center, the fairground is centrally located in the county. The fair is held annually over Labor Day weekend, providing a long weekend of fun and family-oriented events. See details at www.guthriecountyfair.com.

Guthrie County Fair 5K Sept. 5

Runners and walkers are encouraged to join the Guthrie County Fair 5K on Saturday, Sept 5 at the fairgrounds. The course is flat and fun. Registration will open that day at 7:30 a.m., with the 5K to begin at 8 a.m. Participants can register online now through Sept. 2. Cost is $30 (or 15 without a T-shirt). Proceeds will support the ACGC cross country teams. To register, go to https://synergywellness5k-2026.itemorder.com/shop/home

BBQ Cook-off in Stuart Sept. 18-19

Fun and food will be enjoyed at the Best of the Block BBQ Cook-off in downtown Stuart on Sept. 18 and 19. The fest kicks off on Friday, Sept. 18 with a freewill donation chili feed at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 offers a Legion breakfast, games and kids’ events, caricatures, a vendor fair, BBQ awards, pie auction and raffle, BBQ meat fest and street dance with live music. The complete schedule can be viewed on the Facebook page of Stuart Best of the Block BBQ. The event will raise funds for the Cottage Pantry and the American Legion.

Send your event information to rich@gctimesnews.com.       

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

Fall foraging Aug. 19 at Springbrook

Springbrook State Park, 2437 160^th Road, Guthrie Center, will be the site of a late summer/early fall foraging event. The public is welcome to join naturalist Anne Riordan on a hike to gather wild edibles in the park and then learn how to prepare them. The event begins at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 19. Participation is limited to 15 registrants. Cost is $20 per person. To register, go to https://forms.gle/6gCV2Ajatzpy8Lis6

Free community meal at Faith Bible Church Aug. 19

Everyone is invited to come enjoy a free meal at Faith Bible Church (2096 Highway 4, Panora) on Wednesday, Aug. 19. Serving will be from 5:30-6:30 p.m. The meal will include tater tot casserole, green beans, cottage cheese and cookies.

Arts Council Scholarship Fundraiser Aug. 20

The Guthrie County Arts Council will hold a fundraiser event from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Aug. 20 at Art on State (320 State St., Guthrie Center). For a freewill donation, attendees can enjoy homemade treats, pie, dessert bread and water or coffee.

Flannel Crawl in Guthrie Center Aug. 22

A full day of food, fun and shopping awaits on Saturday, Aug. 22 in downtown Guthrie Center. For $50 per person, attendees will enjoy meditation at Sapphire Skin, breakfast at the Café, shopping at local stores and the farmers market, lunch and drinks at Incredi-Bowl. The event runs 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Only 50 spots are available. Proceeds will go back to participating businesses. To register, contact Kristina Swensen at gcchamberofcommerce@gmail.com.

Casey Send-off Aug. 23

The public is welcome to join the Casey Summer Send-off beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 23 at the Casey Community Building. Food and drinks will be available from the Casey Service Club for a freewill donation.  At 8:30 p.m., the movie “Up” will be shown. Free popcorn will be provided, and candy and soda will be available for purchase. Yard games face painting and crafts will be offered. Rolling Hills Bank will provide goodie bags.

Little Chargers Grill-out Aug. 24

The public is invited to support the Little Chargers Early Learning Center by enjoying a meal of burgers, chips and dessert on Monday, Aug. 24 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. (or until sold out). The meal is available for a freewill donation. Little Chargers is at 207 Park Ave. in Guthrie Center.

Open House at Tori’s Angel Aug. 28

On Friday, Aug. 28 from 4-6 p.m., everyone is invited to the new office of Tori’s Angels. The office is at 110 East Main in Panora, and the location is shared with the office of BH Real Estate and Consulting. Refreshments and light hors d’oeuvres will be served. Come and learn more about how Tori’s Angels supports Iowa families who have a child facing life-threatening conditions.

High Five Fridays at GC Elementary

Individuals and groups are welcome to sign up to provide “high fives” and similar encouragement at one of the High Five Fridays, 7:30-8:05 a.m. at Guthrie Center Elementary School. Contact gcchamberofcommerce@gmail.com to check availability of any particular Fridays.

Free grief support group in Panora this fall

Beginning Sept. 8 and running through Dec. 8, a free grief support group will meet at the Panora Public Library (102 North First St.) on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. To register, go to www.griefshare.org or call Carla Kem at 641-332-3006.

Blues and BBQ Aug. 29 at Boulder Beach

On Saturday, Aug. 29, from 4-7 p.m., great music and food will be on tap at Lake Panorama’s Boulder Beach. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to listen to live music by the Brick’N Bob Duo. Tickets cost $40 each and can be purchased from any LPA or LPN member, or by emailing Shanell.wagler@gmail.com. Proceeds will support improvements at Lake Panorama National.

Guthrie County Fair Sept. 3-7

The 2026 Guthrie County Fair will be held Sept. 3-7 at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds in Guthrie Center. The Guthrie County Fair has been an established venue since 1858. Located on the west edge of Guthrie Center, the fairground is centrally located in the county. The fair is held annually over Labor Day weekend, providing a long weekend of fun and family-oriented events. See details at www.guthriecountyfair.com.

Guthrie County Fair 5K Sept. 5

Runners and walkers are encouraged to join the Guthrie County Fair 5K on Saturday, Sept 5 at the fairgrounds. The course is flat and fun. Registration will open that day at 7:30 a.m., with the 5K to begin at 8 a.m. Participants can register online now through Sept. 2. Cost is $30 (or 15 without a T-shirt). Proceeds will support the ACGC cross country teams. To register, go to https://synergywellness5k-2026.itemorder.com/shop/home

BBQ Cook-off in Stuart Sept. 18-19

Fun and food will be enjoyed at the Best of the Block BBQ Cook-off in downtown Stuart on Sept. 18 and 19. The fest kicks off on Friday, Sept. 18 with a freewill donation chili feed at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 offers a Legion breakfast, games and kids’ events, caricatures, a vendor fair, BBQ awards, pie auction and raffle, BBQ meat fest and street dance with live music. The complete schedule can be viewed on the Facebook page of Stuart Best of the Block BBQ. The event will raise funds for the Cottage Pantry and the American Legion.

Send your event information to rich@gctimesnews.com. 

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

Dog Day at the pool

Friday, Aug. 14 is the final day of the season at the Guthrie Center Aquatic Center. That evening, from 6-9 p.m., dogs will be allowed in the pool. Dogs must have all vaccinations current, and must be on a leash when not in the pool.

Fall foraging Aug. 19 at Springbrook

Springbrook State Park, 2437 160^th Road, Guthrie Center, will be the site of a late summer/early fall foraging event. Everyone is welcome to join naturalist Anne Riordan on a hike to gather wild edibles in the park and then learn how to prepare them. The event begins at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 19. Participation is limited to 15 registrants. Cost is $20 per person. To register, go to https://forms.gle/6gCV2Ajatzpy8Lis6

Free community meal at Faith Bible Church Aug. 19

Everyone is invited to come enjoy a free meal at Faith Bible Church (2096 Highway 4, Panora) on Wednesday, Aug. 19. Serving will be from 5:30-6:30 p.m. The meal will include tater tot casserole, green beans, cottage cheese and cookies.

Arts Council Scholarship Fundraiser Aug. 20

The Guthrie County Arts Council will hold a fundraiser event from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Aug. 20 at Art on State (320 State St., Guthrie Center). For a freewill donation, attendees can enjoy homemade treats, pie, dessert bread and water or coffee.

Flannel Crawl in Guthrie Center Aug. 22

A full day of food, fun and shopping awaits on Saturday, Aug. 22 in downtown Guthrie Center. For $50 per person, attendees will enjoy meditation at Sapphire Skin, breakfast at the Café, shopping at local stores and the farmers market, lunch, and drinks at Incredi-Bowl. The event runs 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Only 50 spots are available. Proceeds will go back to participating businesses. To register, contact Kristina Swensen at gcchamberofcommerce@gmail.com.

Little Chargers Grill-out Aug. 24

The public is invited to support the Little Chargers Early Learning Center by enjoying a meal of burgers, chips and dessert on Monday, Aug. 24 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. (or until sold out). The meal is available for a freewill donation. Little Chargers is at 207 Park Ave. in Guthrie Center.

High Five Fridays at GC Elementary

Individuals and groups are welcome to sign up to provide “high fives” and similar encouragement at one of the High Five Fridays, 7:30-8:05 a.m. at Guthrie Center Elementary School. Contact gcchamberofcommerce@gmail.com to check availability of any particular Fridays.

Free grief support group in Panora this fall

Beginning Sept. 8 and running through Dec. 8, a free grief support group will meet at the Panora Public Library (102 North First St.) on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. To register, go to www.griefshare.org or call Carla Kem at 641-332-3006.

Blues and BBQ Aug. 29 at Boulder Beach

On Saturday, Aug. 29, from 4-7 p.m., great music and food will be on tap at Lake Panorama’s Boulder Beach. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to listen to live music by the Brick’N Bob Duo. Tickets cost $40 each and can be purchased from any LPA or LPN member, or by emailing Shanell.wagler@gmail.com. Proceeds will support improvements at Lake Panorama National.

Guthrie County Fair Sept. 3-7

The 2026 Guthrie County Fair will be held Sept. 3-7 at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds in Guthrie Center. The Guthrie County Fair has been an established venue since 1858. Located on the west edge of Guthrie Center, the fairground is centrally located in the county. The fair is held annually over Labor Day weekend, providing a long weekend of fun and family-oriented events. See details at www.guthriecountyfair.com.

Guthrie County Fair 5K Sept. 5

Runners and walkers are encouraged to join the Guthrie County Fair 5K on Saturday, Sept 5 at the fairgrounds. The course is flat and fun. Registration will open that day at 7:30 a.m., with the 5K to begin at 8 a.m. Participants can register online now through Sept. 2. Cost is $30 (or 15 without a t-shirt). Proceeds will support the ACGC cross country teams.

To register, go to https://synergywellness5k-2026.itemorder.com/shop/home

BBQ Cook-off in Stuart Sept. 18-19

Fun and food will be enjoyed at the Best of the Block BBQ Cook-off in downtown Stuart on Sept. 18 and 19. The fest kicks off on Friday, Sept. 18 with a freewill donation chili feed at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 offers a Legion breakfast, games and kids’ events, caricatures, a vendor fair, BBQ awards, pie auction and raffle, BBQ meat fest and street dance with live music. The complete schedule can be viewed on the Facebook page of Stuart Best of the Block BBQ. The event will raise funds for the Cottage Pantry and the American Legion.

Send your event information to rich@gctimesnews.com.       

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

Superhero Health Fair Aug. 11

Panorama High School will be the site of a “superhero health fair” from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 11. There will be inflatables and other fun activities for kids, along with free school supplies and the opportunity to have a physical exam, immunizations and even a haircut. Everyone is welcome to come get ready for the upcoming school year.

Camp Perseid Aug. 12

As part of the yearlong celebration of Springbrook State Park’s 100^th year, anyone interested in watching the Perseid meteor shower is invited to reserve a camping spot at the park (2437 160^th Road, Guthrie Center) for the overnight of Wednesday, Aug. 12. The annual Perseid meteor shower is one of the year’s best meteor-viewing opportunities. This event is only open to those camping. Campers will meet at the campground gazebo to enjoy free s’mores at 9:30 p.m., with group viewing of the meteor shower scheduled 10 p.m. to midnight. No equipment is needed, since meteors are fast-moving and visible with the naked eye. Because of the new moon on Aug. 12, the sky will be very dark, which will increase the chances of seeing lots of meteors. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket. Questions? Call 641-295-6028. The event is free, but campsites require registration and payment. To reserve a camping spot, go to http://iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com

Blood Drive in Guthrie Center Aug. 13

LifeServe Blood Center will hold a blood drive at First Christian Church (105 North Fourth St.) from 2:30 6 p.m. on Aug. 13. Those interested may register for a time slot at www.lifeservebloodcenter.org

Fall foraging Aug. 19 at Springbrook

Springbrook State Park, 2437 160^th Road, Guthrie Center, will be the site of a late summer/early fall foraging event. Everyone is welcome to join naturalist Anne Riordan on a hike to gather wild edibles in the park and then learn how to prepare them. The event begins at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 19. Participation is limited to 15 registrants. Cost is $20 per person. To register, go to https://forms.gle/6gCV2Ajatzpy8Lis6

Little Chargers Grill-out Aug. 24

The public is invited to support the Little Chargers Early Learning Center by enjoying a meal of burgers, chips and dessert on Monday, Aug. 24 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. (or until sold out). The meal is available for a freewill donation. Little Chargers is at 207 Park Ave. in Guthrie Center.

Free grief support group in Panora this fall

Beginning Sept. 8 and running through Dec. 8, a free grief support group will meet at the Panora Public Library (102 North First St.) on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. To register, go to www.griefshare.org or call Carla Kem at 641-332-3006.

BBQ Cook-off in Stuart Sept. 18-19

Fun and food will be enjoyed at the Best of the Block BBQ Cook-off in downtown Stuart on Sept. 18 and 19. The fest kicks off on Friday, Sept. 18 with a freewill donation chili feed at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 offers a Legion breakfast, games and kids’ events, caricatures, a vendor fair, BBQ awards, pie auction and raffle, BBQ meat fest and street dance with live music. The complete schedule can be viewed on the Facebook page of Stuart Best of the Block BBQ. The event will raise funds for the Cottage Pantry and the American Legion.

Blues and BBQ Aug. 29 at Boulder Beach

On Saturday, Aug. 29, from 4-7 p.m., great music and food will be on tap at Lake Panorama’s Boulder Beach. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to listen to live music by Brick’N Bob Duo. Tickets cost $40 each and can be purchased from any LPA or LPN member, or by emailing Shanell.wagler@gmail.com. Proceeds will support improvements at Lake Panorama National.

Guthrie County Fair Sept. 3-7

The 2026 Guthrie County Fair will be held Sept. 3-7 at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds in Guthrie Center. The Guthrie County Fair has been an established venue since 1858. Located on the west edge of Guthrie Center, the fairground is centrally located in the county. The fair is held annually over Labor Day weekend, providing a long weekend of fun and family-oriented events. See details at www.guthriecountyfair.com.

Send your event information to rich@gctimesnews.com

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

Cops and Kids Badge Bowl postponed to September

This event was originally scheduled for Aug. 8 but has been postponed until September. When the date and time are determined that information will be published. Panorama High School’s football field will be the site of a flag football tournament in which youth will team up with deputies from the Guthrie County Sheriff’s department. The idea behind the event is not only to create a fundraiser for future outreach programs, but also to provide an opportunity for local youth to have a positive experience with law enforcement.

Lego contest at Art on State

Art on State (320 State St., Guthrie Center) welcomes everyone to submit entries in the upcoming Lego creation contest. The free event is open to adults and kids, kindergarten or older. Creations can be original or from a kit. Submissions may be brought to Art on State on Aug. 7 or 8 and will be displayed Aug. 11-15 in the store. Prizes will be awarded.

Superhero Health Fair Aug. 11

Panorama High School will be the site of a “superhero health fair” from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 11. There will be inflatables and other fun activities for kids, along with free school supplies and the opportunity to have a physical exam, immunizations and even a haircut. Everyone is welcome to come get ready for the upcoming school year.

Camp Perseid Aug. 12

As part of the yearlong celebration of Springbrook State Park’s 100^th year, anyone interested in watching the Perseid meteor shower is invited to reserve a camping spot at the park (2437 160^th Road, Guthrie Center) for the overnight of Wednesday, Aug. 12. The annual Perseid meteor shower is one of the year’s best meteor-viewing opportunities. This event is only open to those camping. Campers will meet at the campground gazebo to enjoy free s’mores at 9:30 p.m., with group viewing of the meteor shower scheduled 10 p.m. to midnight. No equipment is needed, since meteors are fast-moving and visible with the naked eye. Because of the new moon on Aug. 12, the sky will be very dark, which will increase the chances of seeing lots of meteors. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair. Questions? Call 641-295-6028.

The event is free, but campsites require registration and payment. To reserve a camping spot, go to http://iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com

Fall foraging Aug. 19 at Springbrook

Springbrook State Park, 2437 160^th Road, Guthrie Center, will be the site of a late summer/early fall foraging event. Everyone is welcome to join naturalist Anne Riordan on a hike to gather wild edibles in the park, then learn how to prepare them. The event begins at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 19. Participation is limited to 15 registrants. Cost is $20 per person. To register, go to https://forms.gle/6gCV2Ajatzpy8Lis6

Free grief support group in Panora this fall

Beginning Sept. 8 and running through Dec. 8, a free grief support group will meet at the Panora Public Library (102 North First St.) on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. To register, go to www.griefshare.org or call Carla Kem at 641-332-3006.

BBQ Cook-off in Stuart Sept. 18-19

Fun and food will be enjoyed at the Best of the Block BBQ Cook-off in downtown Stuart on Sept. 18 and 19. The fest kicks off on Friday, Sept. 18 with a freewill donation chili feed at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 offers a Legion breakfast, games and kids’ events, caricatures, a vendor fair, BBQ awards, pie auction and raffle, BBQ meat fest and street dance with live music. The complete schedule can be viewed on the Facebook page of Stuart Best of the Block BBQ. The event will raise funds for the Cottage Pantry and the American Legion.

Blues and BBQ Aug. 29 at Boulder Beach

On Saturday, Aug. 29, from 4-7 p.m., great music and food will be on tap at Lake Panorama’s Boulder Beach. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to listen to live music by Brick’N Bob Duo. Tickets cost $40 each and can be purchased from any LPA or LPN member, or by emailing Shanell.wagler@gmail.com. Proceeds will support improvements at Lake Panorama National.

Guthrie County Fair Sept. 3-7

The 2026 Guthrie County Fair will be held Sept. 3-7 at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds in Guthrie Center. The Guthrie County Fair has been an established venue since 1858. Located on the west edge of Guthrie Center, the fairground is centrally located in the county. The fair is held annually over Labor Day weekend, providing a long weekend of fun and family-oriented events. See details at www.guthriecountyfair.com.

Send your event information to rich@gctimesnews.com.