By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

On the morning of Saturday, May 16, dozens of ATVs and side-by-sides were parked at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds as riders awaited the start of the annual Red, White & Blue Cruise. The ride raises funds for area veterans. Riders signed up for raffles and the poker run, heard reminders on safe riding, and then set off on the “choose your own route” adventure to various participating food and drink establishments.

Donated prizes were raffled off to raise funds for the cause.

Dozens of riders and one “swamp thing” showed up for the ride.

ATV drivers head out on their chosen route.

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The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation’s (IFBF) Take Root program is helping farm families by creating a two-day summer immersive workshop, “Real Talk to Real Timelines,” from Aug. 12-13 at the West 48 Conference Center in West Des Moines. Designed for multigenerational farm families, the workshop builds on the success of IFBF’s Take Root program, offering a structured, hands-on setting to begin important succession planning conversations and build a clear path forward for the future of the family farm.

“Real Talk to Real Timelines” will provide farm families with guided conversations, facilitated planning sessions and one-on-one time with an attorney and other planning experts to achieve a clear, actionable transition plan. A tangible succession plan binder will help family members navigate the transition planning process while establishing the family farm vision, roles, ownership structure, governance, tax considerations, pay and benefits, long-term strategy and more.

“For more than a decade, Iowa Farm Bureau’s Take Root program has helped hundreds of farm families navigate one of the most important conversations they will have — how to preserve not only their farm operation, but the values, relationships and legacy behind it,” Amanda Van Steenwyk, IFBF farm business development manager, said. “This immersive workshop is designed to give families the time, guidance and support to make thoughtful decisions together and leave with a completed workbook that outlines their vision, roles, ownership strategy, timelines and next steps — creating a meaningful path forward for a smooth transition and a lasting family farm legacy.”

Registration for Real Talk to Real Timelines: A Take Root Immersive Farm Succession Workshop opens May 18 and is limited to 10 Farm Bureau member families. The cost is $150 per family and $50 to add two additional family members.  Early bird registration for $50 off through June 8 using promo code “FBEARLYBIRD.” For more information, or to join Iowa Farm Bureau, visit www.iowafarmbureau.com.

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On May 15, a total of 12 players participated. Several players got 16s. Dave Coffman had a 24.

On May 18, a total of 10 players participated. Bill Sheeder and Robert Klever each got a 16; Chet Vaughan got two 16s; and Dave Kading had a 17.

The Guthrie Center cribbage players generally meet at Guthrie Center Library, 400 Grand St., on Mondays at 8 a.m. and at the New Homestead independent living dining hall, 2306 State St., at 8 a.m. on Wednesdays and at 1 p.m. on Fridays. Organizers say there is always room for more, and they will be glad to teach you how to play. They play for quarters on Wednesday and Friday.

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The Guthrie County Arts Council announced its 2026 Jennifer Hewitt Memorial Art Awards.

• From ACGC, Alex Doherty, daughter of Frank and Megan Doherty.
• From Coon Rapids-Bayard, Em Sigler, daughter of Kelly and John Sigler.
• From Panorama, Karleen Ploeger, daughter of Tony and Robyn Ploeger.
• From West Central Valley, Shadow Mae Doherty, daughter of Jodi and Bill Doherty.

The Guthrie County Arts Council’s Jennifer Hewitt Memorial Art Awards are presented annually to outstanding graduating senior art students in Guthrie County school districts. The awards are in memory of Jennifer Hewitt who supported the vision and mission of the Guthrie County Arts Council as a member, artist, volunteer, president, event coordinator, teacher, mentor and friend.

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Guthrie County Deputy Sheriff Taylor Wheatley reported a two-vehicle accident occurring on May 15 at 3:36 p.m. in the ACGC High School parking lot. Cordell Michael Wolfe, 14, of Guthrie Center, was reversing a 2011 Chevrolet Colorado 2LT out of his parking spot. Wolfe did not see a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Joseph Douglas Crawford, 18, of Adair, before striking the Silverado broadside. Estimated damage to Wolfe’s vehicle is $500. Estimated damage to Crawford’s vehicle is $3,500. No citations were issued.

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Guthrie County Deputy Sheriff Todd Thorn reported a two-vehicle accident occurring on May 14 at 8:12 a.m. on White Pole Road. Jeffrey Lynn Sackett, 69, of Menlo, was driving a 2013 GMC Terrain eastbound on White Pole Road when he came up on a 2023 Kia driven by Jordan Robert Salazar, 37, of Dexter. Salazar was driving at a reduced speed due to a mower in a no-passing zone. Sackett failed to maintain control and rearended the Kia driven by Salazar. Estimated damage to Sackett’s vehicle is $9,000. Estimated damage to Salazar’s vehicle is $20,000. Sackett was issued a citation for failure to stop in an assured clear distance.