Chip Shot in the Tuba Contest

Are you a great golfer, a good golfer or even a lucky golfer? Here’s a chance to double your money – chip your shot into the tuba and we’ll double your money – giving you Chamber bucks! All the funds raised go to the Band Shell Restoration Fund. Join us at the HACCers Open between noon and 7 p.m. on August 14. Anyone can participate in the Chip Shot in the Tuba contest.



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Summerfest Countdown

The countdown to Summerfest begins. August 13 and 14th, clear your calendar and come to Band Shell Park. Friday night is Teen Dance Night featuring DJ Shel-Shock. Saturday night the Whitesidewalls bring you the rock ‘n roll revue for your listening and dancing pleasure.

Some of the local acts include: Bailey Condon Singing Sensation, the Ben Ady Band, Tina Deardeuff Tie Dye Butterfly, Tiffany Spurgeon Classics to Pop, and Yupitsa Polka Band.

You can purchase wristbands early for the Inflatable Rides at Center One. Wristbands will be available later this week. One is $20, or three for $50. This wristband is good for both days and only available for both days if you purchase it early. Monkey Mountain, Climbing Wall, Kids Bounce, Bungee Run, Obstacle Course, Inflata Hoops – those are just a few of the inflatable games that may be at Summerfest. Rest assured the kids will love them and spend hours enjoying them.

Farmers Market will be open, there’s a Dunk Tank, Hampton Jaycees Bingo, Pedal Pull and an ice cream eating contest. KLMJ Tractor Ride will also make an appearance! The downtown stores are also having sidewalk sales on Saturday for your shopping pleasure.

A new addition this year is the Antique and Unique Lawn Mower Show on Saturday the 14th. Now is your opportunity to showcase your old or unique lawnmower. Registration is Saturday from noon to 2 with judging at 4 p.m. Todd Mollenbeck is the organizer and welcomes your phone calls at 641-579-6306.

The 50/50 Raffle Ticket sales have begun. Purchase one for $1 or six for $5. Come to Center One for those tickets. How does it work? The winner will receive half of the total ticket sales in Chamber Bucks! The other half is a fund raiser. Imagine the shopping you can do in Franklin County!

We’d like to take a moment to thank our sponsors for Summerfest. Our sponsors, so far, are:

Red Sponsors ($500 or greater):
Hampton Hardware
Hampton Rotary Club
North Central Millwright
Sackville Insurance

Orange Sponsors ($300):
Dumont Telephone Company
First National Bank of Hampton
Kiwanis Club of Hampton
Omnium
Redneck Trailer Supplies
Craig Semler
Winfield Solutions LLC

Green Sponsors ($200):
Butch Gruelke Auto Body Inc.
Hampton Publishing
Hampton State Bank
KLMJ/KQCR Radio
United Bank and Trust

Yellow Sponsors ($100):
Casey’s General Store
Edwards Contracting Inc.
Franklin County Lumber
Hampton Lions Club
Koenen-Collins Chiropractic Clinic
Koerner-Whipple Pharmacy/Fireside Gifts
Dr. William B. Moore, P.C.
Murphy’s Heating and Plumbing
Steve Pearson
Rick’s Pharmacy

General Sponsorship ($50):
Franklin County Abstract Company
Jeffery A Jaacks, LPA
Krukow Real Estate

Please contact the Chamber office and add your name to this list!


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HACCers Open

Thursday August 4th the fun begins! Golf, socializing and networking and a steak dinner at the end of the day. What a great way to spend a Thursday. This is an annual Tournament with prizes on every hole; there are 17 different activities and chances to earn a prize. Good luck Golfers!


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Want Tractors?

Summerfest Fund Raiser at the Tractor Ride on Tuesday

The KGLO/KWMT Tractor Ride starts this week and they’re coming right through Franklin County!

The first stop on Tuesdays ride will be in Dows from 9 a.m. until 10:10 a.m. Latimer is up next, from 11:15 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. While in Latimer, the North West Franklin 4-H club will be serving lunch. The final destination before heading back to Iowa Falls on Tuesday is Beeds Lake. You will be able to see the tractors arriving there anywhere from 2 until 3:05 in the afternoon.

The Summerfest Committee will be selling ice cream sundaes and raising funds for Summerfest in August. So why not head on over to Beeds Lake on Tuesday, get an ice cream sundae and enjoy the tractors?

The tractor ride has over 200 riders who travel through the countryside of Northern Iowa or Southern Minnesota. Usually they are antique tractor enthusiasts and their tractors are over 20 years old. In a three day span they travel over 185 miles.

Country Fair - Alexander Iowa

PUBLIC INVITED TO “LATHAM COUNTRY” FOR FREE, FAMILY FUN
Everyone is invited to take a scenic country drive to Alexander, Iowa, on Friday, July 30, for a day filled with family entertainment at the Latham Country Fair. Activities will open to the public at 9:00 a.m. and conclude at 3:00 p.m.
“From a petting zoo to balloon animals, and from in-field demonstrations to high-powered ag policy presentations, we’ve planned a day full of activities for the entire family to enjoy,” said Shannon Latham, vice president, Latham Hi-Tech Seeds. “Family is incredibly important to Latham Hi-Tech Seeds, which has been family owned and operated for more than 60 years. That’s why we’re Celebrating Our Independence by inviting you and your family to the Latham Country Fair.”

Production and agronomic presentations will begin at 9:15 a.m., with Iowa State University (ISU) Extension Corn Specialist Roger Elmore sharing tips on how to produce 300-Bushel Corn. “How to Make 80-Bushel Beans,” will be the topic of discussion when the University of Minnesota’s Seth Naeve takes the stage at 10:15 a.m. Daren Mueller, a researcher working on ISU’s Corn and Soybean Initiative, will present, “Stop the Nematodes: Corn and Soybeans,” at 11:15 a.m.
At 11:30 a.m., “The Big Show” featuring WHO Radio’s Mark and Bob will broadcast live from Latham Seeds’ headquarters. Mark Pearson, host of Iowa Public Television’s Market to Market, will serve as the afternoon’s keynote speaker.
“We’re honored that Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey and Iowa Farm Bureau Federation President Craig Lang have agreed to lead a discussion on the 2012 Farm Bill,” says Latham. “Join them at 2 p.m. to discuss how the Farm Bill could impact your state and your farming operation.”
In addition to esteemed speakers, the Latham Country Fair will feature a day filled with entertaining and educational activities. Monsanto’s Mobile Technology Unit,TM showcasing advances in plant breeding, biotechnology and Genuity™ trait innovations in corn and soybeans, will be on site providing guided tours.
Another draw to the Latham Country Fair will be big equipment displays, thanks to cooperation from Hagie Manufacturing of Clarion, Iowa; Phelps Implement of Hampton, Iowa; and SUKUP Manufacturing of Sheffield, Iowa.
The Franklin County Farm Bureau will provide kids hands-on learning related to animal and livestock presentation through activities associated with their Ag in the Classroom Curriculum.
Throughout the day there will be ongoing tours of showcase plots including Latham Hi-Tech Hybrids and Latham Hi-Tech Soybeans with LibertyLink, Agrisure and the Genuity family of traits and technologies. Research demonstrations will highlight VOTiVOTM biological seed treatment for nematode control in both corn and soybeans; a corn population study; and Latham’s research on soybean lines featuring both CystX for soybean nematode resistance (SCN) and the new Genuity Roundup Ready 2 Soybean technology.
While farmers take a look at products in the pipeline, their families can enjoy games and crafts. Children’s activities include:
• Petting zoo;
• Bounce House;
• Giant Slide;
• 50-foot obstacle course;
• Skee Ball;
• T-ball; and
• Basketball Hoop Challenge.
The Latham Country Fair will also include craft fair and commercial exhibits including several Hampton Area Chamber members. Please contact Shannon Latham at 515-371-0450 if you are interested in exhibiting at the Country Fair.
“We planned the Latham Country Fair to include activities, information and product showcases for everyone to enjoy,” says Shannon Latham. “I encourage you to bring your family and enjoy a day where the food and the fun are already taken care of ― all you need to do is come and enjoy! I’ve been a huge fair fan from the time I joined 4-H in third grade ― and while I admit that was quite a while ago, I still enjoy a good fair. We’re hoping our events on July 30th create fond memories for all who attend.”
For directions to the Latham Country Fair and more details on the day’s activities and presentations, visit www.lathamseeds.com and click News and Events, Country Fair.

Gwen Sebastion - Live in Hampton!

KLMJ Bringing Gwen Sebastian to Town on Saturday August 24 LIVE!









Saturday, July 24 at the Church of the Living Word 7 p.m.

This is a benefit for Relay for Life. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the radio station and Center One. We suggest you listen to the radio – they’re offering a ticket special!


Visit www.gwensebastian.com for more info about the singer.

HACC'ers Open Update

August 4th , 1 p.m., Hampton Country Club – join us for a fun afternoon of golf, socializing and networking. Enjoy a great steak dinner at the end of the day. There are still a few spots left for both sponsors and teams. Contact Tyler Heeren at First National Bank for more information.

Sponsors this year are Hampton State Bank, First National Bank, Franklin RED, Omnium, United Bank and Trust, Scheideman Financial, Hampton Publishing, Sackville Insurance, Buresh Building Systems, Midwest Meter/Mid:com, North Central Milwright, KLMJ, Butch Gruelke, Murphys Plumbing and Heating and Redneck Trailer. Why not add your name to that list?

Fair Parade

HACC kicked off Fair Week with the Fair Parade.

There were many entries and everyone was winner in our book. The Judges this year were Scott Sackville and Alan Moritz. Our thanks to Mari Ann Wearda for taking these pictures!

Grand Champions - Honk 'n Holler

Reserve Grand Champions - First National Bank

Pride of Franklin County - Franklin County Public Health

We Saw You at the Fair

WINNIE HAWKS COMING TO TOWN

Franklin County Tourism will be hosting the Iowa Winnie Hawks camping group (www.iowawinniehawks.com) on July 9 & July 10 at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. The group is expected to bring about 100 units with about 200 people.

There will be a Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce shopping experience and a shop-hop hosted by the Hampton Specialty Shops. On Saturday, July 10, ABCM Corporation will be providing bus transportation for the campers to tour the community with continuous stops at Franklin County Historical Sites, Shopping, Fairgrounds, Dining establishments, Franklin Prairie Apartment and Leahy Grove Apartments.

All bus tours will rally at the historical Windsor Theatre for the 1:00pm matinee of the Franklin County Players community theatre production of “Our Town”. Buses will then take a final route to take people back their respective starts after the play production. This production will be the debut of the non-profit Windsor Theatre as the home of the Franklin County Arts Council premier production of live performance dating back to the 1913 opera house. The Windsor will continue to run movie 7 days a week as they have been starting in the 1920.


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Our Town

Have you gotten your tickets for the production of Our Town at the Windsor Theatre?
July 9 - 7 pm
July 10—1 pm and 7 pm
Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for kids
There is a special for Friday evening—have wine and cheese at merry bees and attend the play with a reserved seat for only $15.
Tickets can be purchased at Center One.

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Last Concert of the Season

Hampton Municipal Band
Leon Kuehner, Director
Concert Number 7, July 6, 2010


America----------------------------------------------------------------arr. Conley
Strike Up the Band-------------------------------------------------arr. Conrad
Allied Honor-------------------------------------------------------------Karl King
Highlights from “The Music Man”----------------------------------arr. Reed
Devonshire Overture----------------------------------------------------Ployhar
Americans We-----------------------------------------------------------Fillmore
Clarinet Carousel--------------------------------------------------------Bennett
Clarinet Duet: Josh Anderson, Maggie Voelker
Three Ayres from Gloucester--------------------------------------arr. Stuart
Here’s That Rainy Day--------------------------------------------arr. Lowden
National Emblem----------------------------------------------------------Bagley
May the Good Lord Bless & Keep You------------------------------Wilson
Robbi Stevens, vocal soloist
Old Scottish Melody--------------------------------------------------arr. Wiley
Stars and Stripes Forever-----------------------------------------------Sousa
America the Beautiful----------------------------------------------arr. Dragon
Star Spangled Banner----------------------------------------------arr. Sousa

The Hampton Municipal Band, under the direction of Leon Kuehner, will be presenting its seventh and final concert of the summer Tuesday, July 6th, at 8:00 PM, on the east parking lot of the Franklin County Courthouse. Featured performers for the evening will be Maggie Voelker, Josh Anderson, and Robbi Stevens . Voelker & Anderson, will be performing a clarinet duet entitled “Clarinet Carousel”, arr. by Harold Bennett, and Robbi Stevens will be singing “May the Good Lord Bless and Keep You” by Meredith Wilson,

The Municipal Band is made up of fifty-five area musicians of all ages. Concerts have been scheduled on Tuesday evenings in June through July 6th. Because of the structural issues with the city band shell, this year performances will be held on the east parking lot of the Franklin County Courthouse beginning at 8:00 PM. This final concert will also launch the fund raising campaign to renovate the band shell, jointly coordinated by Main Street Hampton and Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce.

Because of the absence of benches, concert goers are encouraged to bring a lawn chair.


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Chamber Members Love Your Support

Graphics Plus
641-648-2583
We are a full service advertising specialties company offering a wide range of promotional items to promote your company.
Www.atotalgraphicsolution.com

Hampton Auto Glass
641-456-2425
Windshield Replacement and Repair
Butch Gruelke
10 7th St NW Hampton
Let us fix it for you!

Hampton Community Christian Day Care
641-456-4922
We take care of your children like they were our own
Laura Bradley
104 Twelfth Avenue NE
Hampton, IA 50441

Hampton Country Club
641-456-3256
Among the premiere 9-hole courses in Iowa, the Hampton Country Club golf facility in Hampton, Iowa features 3,176 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 37. The course rating is 34.8 and it has a slope of 124. www.hamptoncountryclub.com




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Camp For Free

Image via Wikipedia

State Park Campground Hosts Needed

If you love to camp and enjoy working with people, you might have what it takes to be a great campground host! In exchange for a free campsite, campground hosts commit to at least 4 weeks of service. Tasks include answering questions, explaining rules and regulations, helping with registration, directing people to points of interest, litter control, light maintenance, and other responsibilities as agreed upon with park staff. To download an application and to see a list of parks needing hosts, visit http://www.iowadnr.gov/volunteer/camphostpage.html or contact Elizabeth Gull at (515) 281-0806 or elizabeth.gull@dnr.iowa.gov.

"Well, spring sprang. We've had our state of grace and our little gift of sanctioned madness,
courtesy of Mother Nature. Thanks, Gaia. Much obliged. I guess it's time to get back to
that daily routine of living we like to call normal."
- David Assael


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Feeling Dramatic?

Cover of Our Town (Widescreen Edition)

Auditions for the Franklin Players production of “Our Town” will be held on May 18 and 19, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Center I in Hampton. “Our Town”, the Pulitzer Prize winning play by Thornton Wilder, will be presented at the Windsor Theatre in Hampton on July 9 & 10. There is a wide range of roles available for males and females of all ages. Rehearsals for the production will begin on June 1.

If you have any questions, you may contact the show’s director, Dani Dohlmann, by emailing her at danielle.dohlman@wartburg.edu. This production is sponsored by the Franklin County Arts Council.


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Get Your Workout On

Image by Jiuck via Flickr

Summer Specials at Franklin Wellness Center – June 1 to September 1. Memberships are:
$125 Family
$90 Individual Membership
$100 Senior Couple Membership
$85 Senior Membership
$45 Youth Membership
Use of the entire facility, Paid in full option only, no ACH’s.



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Iowa Grown for You

Image by NatalieMaynor via Flickr

Franklin County Farmer’s Market begins this Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. in Main Street Square. Iowa Farmer’s Market W.I.C. and Senior Checks are accepted. Starting June 1 – they will be open on Tuesday as well. For more information, contact 456-4811.

Fruits –Vegetables – Plants – Honey – Eggs – Flowers – Baked Goods

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Summer Ideas for your Family

Image by Paul Denton Cocker via Flickr

A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken. ~James Dent


June
Tuesdays on the Town June 8, 15, 22, 29
June 18 and 19th Alexander Quasiquicentennial

July
Franklin County Fair July 15-18
HACCers Open July 27

August
Summerfest August 13 and 14
Beeds Lake Run and Ham Jam—August 28


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Found in the new visitors guide

REA Power Plant Museum—rural Hampton: Located 4 miles south of the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Hampton and 1 1/2 miles west on gravel roads, the Corn Belt Power REA plant was the first farmer owned power plant in the nation to receive an REA grant and only the second in the nation to go “on line” in the 1930’s. The plant was given to the Franklin County Historical Society and has been turned into a rural and electrical museum. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For more information, or a tour, call Marvin Rodemeyer.

That’s right—Franklin County now has a visitors guide. Thanks to Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce and Hampton Publishing you can now find a comprehensive listing of things to do in Franklin County. Also included is the Chamber business directory (buy local shop Chamber), government listings, historical sites and advertisements. You’ll find them around Iowa at rest stops, in the places where this newspaper is delivered and at the Hampton Chronicle office.
Whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times.

This arises from the fact that they are produced by men who ever have been, and ever shall be, animated by the same passions, and thus they necessarily have the same results. Machiavelli

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like: Seven Stars Restaurant Winfield Solutions - 641-456-4566Small Business Social Media Summit www.smallbizsocialmediasummit.comLeahy Grove 641-456-2701Rehabilitation Center of Hampton 641-456-4701The Wood Cellar 641-456-5510TownsEnd Winery - 641-456-2836Your ad can go here too!

Are You Being Scammed?

Image by dpstyles™ via Flickr

Recently, there have been a couple of unethical people in town saying they have the Chamber’s backing to sell you something. Or maybe you received an email from a group saying they were representatives of the Chamber. Please call the Chamber at 456-5668 and verify. We’re very good at letting you know in advance if we are promoting something. Don’t be fooled by these groups – and know also that they may say they are from one of our civic organizations. Call the Chamber or that organization. We are here to support you.

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Be A Part of your Community

Be a Part of Your Community

Community involvement is one of the best ways to feel connected to your community. There are many diverse communities surrounding the U of M campus—the best way to learn about them is to become a part of them. And by the simple gesture of offering your skills and enthusiasm, you will positively impact other lives, as well as your own.
(from http://www.servicelearning.umn.edu/volunteer/benefits.html)


Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like: Seven Stars Restaurant Winfield Solutions - 641-456-4566Small Business Social Media Summit www.smallbizsocialmediasummit.comLeahy Grove 641-456-2701Rehabilitation Center of Hampton 641-456-4701The Wood Cellar 641-456-5510TownsEnd Winery - 641-456-2836Your ad can go here too!

Movies America Update

Movies America reopened across the street from the original location Saturday, April 24 at 10:00am. The store is wonderful and even has tanning beds. It’s a temporary space until the store across the street has been remodeled. There are a lot more movies available now! Stop in and see what’s going on – your support of this chamber member is greatly appreciated.

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like: Seven Stars Restaurant Winfield Solutions - 641-456-4566Small Business Social Media Summit www.smallbizsocialmediasummit.comLeahy Grove 641-456-2701Rehabilitation Center of Hampton 641-456-4701The Wood Cellar 641-456-5510TownsEnd Winery - 641-456-2836Your ad can go here too!

Short Term Thinking

Short-term Thinking (usually) = Trouble
Think back on the business disasters of the last decade.
What they have in common is short-term thinking. Making the quarterly numbers. Maximizing quick profits. Jumping in to a hot market to make a killing. Lying to close business. Inflating the numbers to get a big buyout.
Building a sustainable business and a stellar reputation is a long-term project. Oaks take years. Squashes take weeks.
Here’s the ugly truth: people do what they are incentivized to do. And for most people, short-term incentives win out over long-term results.
There are no short-cuts. You need to build for the long haul. Which means patience, vision, and concern for others, not just yourself.
Do for others what you have them do for you. You won’t find this practiced at Enron-like companies. Invest your professional time in companies that think long-term; or, if you’re creating your own organization, make this a foundation stone.
You might not get the applause from the superficial crowd. Be convinced that that’s a very good thing!
Taken from Seven Profound Business Truths found at http://brandimpact.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/seven-profound-business-truths1.pdf

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like: Seven Stars Restaurant Winfield Solutions - 641-456-4566Small Business Social Media Summit www.smallbizsocialmediasummit.comLeahy Grove 641-456-2701Rehabilitation Center of Hampton 641-456-4701The Wood Cellar 641-456-5510TownsEnd Winery - 641-456-2836Your ad can go here too!

Spruce Up Day

It’s that time of year again! The Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the city wide Spruce Up Days May 7 and May 8. The purpose of the Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce is to support economic growth, by improving the quality of life and business climate in the Franklin County area. The Chamber believes that cleaning up the town is a great way to begin improving the quality of life.

Friday, May 7th you will be able to have your appliances and electronics picked up. Come to the chamber office at 5 1st St NW and get your sticker. Each sticker costs $25 and can be used to have the following items picked up. Microwaves, refrigerators, freezers, stoves, dishwasher, washer, dryer, hot water heater, furnace, air conditioner, dehumidifiers, vcrs, DVD players, stereos, computer towers, game systems, television or monitors. Each item will require a sticker and each sticker is $25. If there is no sticker, the item will be left.

The Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce is not picking up any items except for appliances and electronics. The Chamber would like to be able to pick up all your trash, but Waste Management is not providing the offloaders as they have in the past. Waste Management has also not renewed their membership with the Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce. You can take your other items to the Landfill of North Iowa in Clear Lake. Their website is www.landfillnorthiowa.org
Saturday May 8th The Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce will pick up your bagged leaves and bundled sticks. Come to the chamber office and get your sticker. For $10, you will get 3 bags or 3 bundles, or a combination of the two, picked up. You will receive three stickers for a total of $10.

Saturday May 8th - Need mulch? This year the Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce will deliver two wheelbarrows full of mulch to you for $10. Come to the Chamber office and purchase your flag. Then put the flag somewhere in your front yard area (so it can be seen from the street) and they will put the mulch there. If you need more than two wheelbarrows, purchase another flag for $10 and be sure to put it where you want the mulch delivered. Be sure the driver can see the flag(s) from the street.

The Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce will also have the downtown sidewalks washed and the street sweeper will come along and remove the dirt from the gutters. They invite the civic organizations in town to come out on Saturday and clean up downtown. Mainstreet Square, Bandshell Park and the Courthouse Square would all be a great place to begin. The retail organizations are invited as well to clean up in front of their stores.



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The Wood Cellar 641-456-5510
TownsEnd Winery - 641-456-2836
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Open House at the Library

Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce made an Ambassador Call to The Hampton Public Library on April 15th. They celebrated National Library Week with an open house on Thursday April 15th, 2010 from 10am to 5pm. Ambassadors received a light snack and got their new library cards. Be sure to stop by and turn in your old card and receive a new, laminated card along with a key fob card.

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Leahy Grove 641-456-2701
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The Wood Cellar 641-456-5510
TownsEnd Winery - 641-456-2836
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Visit to Got You Covered

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The Wood Cellar 641-456-5510
TownsEnd Winery - 641-456-2836
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Earth Week

Celebrate Earth Week at Cornerstone Cottage

Monday, April 19: Book signing & author reception

Tuesday, April 20: Celebrate Earth Week by exploring Franklin County’s green spaces. Pick up brochures and information all day long at Cornerstone Cottage.

Wednesday, April 21: The greenest product is one that already exists. Buy it or sell it on eBay! 1pm to 4pm. Stop in and visit with our eBay expert, Kim Waterman. Imagine having a personal shopper to locate that item you’ve been looking for. You name the price, we do the shopping. Learn how we can help you turn your unwanted item into cash when we sell it for you on eBay. Stop by to chat with Kim and set your appointment.

Thursday, April 22: Attend Deb Brown’s “green” cleaning workshop and learn how to avoid using toxic household cleaning items. She’ll also show you how buying your cleaning products in a concentrated form (which you dilute with plain water before using) can save hundreds of pounds of household waste annually. The workshop is at 2pm, and will repeat at 5:30. Please call the store or e-mail us to let us know you’re coming. Yes! We’re open late Thursday night.

Friday & Saturday, April 23 & 24: Judy and the rest of the staff at Cornerstone Cottage will show you how to reuse and repurpose household and architectural salvage items such as old furniture, windows, doors and gates to create home and garden sculptures that reflect your heritage and personality.

Easter Weekend

Sheffield Community Club will have an Omelet Breakfast on Saturday, April 3rd at the Sheffield Inn. Made to order omelets served with toast, coffee, orange juice or milk will be served for a freewill donation from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM. The proceeds from omelet breakfast will assist the Girl Scouts with their trip to Savannah and the Boy Scouts with camp expenses. This news was brought to you by D and L Sanitation.

The Hampton Jaycees will be holding their annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 3, 2010. Due to potential wet weather, we are partnering with the Windsor Theatre this year. The hunt will begin at 12:30 at the Windsor. The Windsor will then be showing a special matinee at 1:00 for just $1.00 for anyone wishing to attend.

Geneva United Methodist Church will be serving a Sunrise Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Sunday April 4 - right after Sunrise Service at 7 a.m. Join us for a great breakfast!

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Chamber Meeting April 1

April 1 2 to 4 pm Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting their First Annual Spring Meeting. All chamber members and their guests are invited to the Windsor Theatre from 2 pm to 4 pm. The program will include a State of the Chamber address, New Business, Events and Discussion.

Special Guest Speaker will be Senator Chuck Grassley. Senator Grassley will speak about small business concerns and will take questions.

Popcorn and sodas will be served

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Two New Benefits Aid Employers

Image by alykat via Flickr

Steve Pearson, CPA, provided Chamber members with this news from the IRS.

Two new tax benefits are now available to employers hiring workers who were previously unemployed or only working part time. These provisions are part of the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act enacted into law today.
Employers who hire unemployed workers this year (after Feb. 3, 2010 and before Jan. 1, 2011) may qualify for a 6.2-percent payroll tax incentive, in effect exempting them from their share of Social Security taxes on wages paid to these workers after March 18, 2010. This reduced tax withholding will have no effect on the employee’s future Social Security benefits, and employers would still need to withhold the employee’s 6.2-percent share of Social Security taxes, as well as income taxes. The employer and employee’s shares of Medicare taxes would also still apply to these wages.
In addition, for each worker retained for at least a year, businesses may claim an additional general business tax credit, up to $1,000 per worker, when they file their 2011 income tax returns.
“These tax breaks offer a much-needed boost to employers willing to expand their payrolls, and businesses and nonprofits should keep these benefits in mind as they plan for the year ahead,” said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman.
The two tax benefits are especially helpful to employers who are adding positions to their payrolls. New hires filling existing positions also qualify but only if the workers they are replacing left voluntarily or for cause. Family members and other relatives do not qualify.
In addition, the new law requires that the employer get a statement from each eligible new hire certifying that he or she was unemployed during the 60 days before beginning work or, alternatively, worked fewer than a total of 40 hours for someone else during the 60-day period. The IRS is currently developing a form employees can use to make the required statement.
Businesses, agricultural employers, tax-exempt organizations and public colleges and universities all qualify to claim the payroll tax benefit for eligible newly-hired employees. Household employers cannot claim this new tax benefit.
Employers claim the payroll tax benefit on the federal employment tax return they file, usually quarterly, with the IRS. Eligible employers will be able to claim the new tax incentive on their revised employment tax form for the second quarter of 2010. Revised forms and further details on these two new tax provisions will be posted on IRS.gov during the next few weeks.

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Winfield Solutions - 641-456-4566
Small Business Social Media Summit www.smallbizsocialmediasummit.com
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• Jobs bill offers tax breaks for hiring (sfgate.com)
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Help the School

HAMPTON DUMONT SCHOOL DISTRICT
NEEDS YOUR HELP
Parents, residents, business owners—Hampton Dumont Community School District wants to know what you think of how they are doing! Please visit www.hdcsd.org and click on the survey link. These are totally anonymous surveys. You can visit the library, bank, Chamber of Commerce, Dumont Telephone Company or any school to pick up a hard copy.


Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114
Winfield Solutions - 641-456-4566
Small Business Social Media Summit www.smallbizsocialmediasummit.com
TownsEnd Winery - 641-456-2836

Harriman Nielsen Fund Raiser

Image by Xabier.M via Flickr

Tickets are now available for the Harriman Nielsen Historic Farm Fundraiser – an evening of traditional Danish food and music. The meal and program will be held on Sunday, April 18 at the Hampton Country Club with social time at 5:30 pm and the meal at 6 pm. The meal will include appetizers, salads, main course, beverages, and a dessert.

The program will include entertainment by Glenn Henriksen, a versatile pianist and organist from Armstrong, Iowa. Glenn started piano lessons at age seven, attended Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, and over the years has developed a unique musical style. He has recorded several CDs including “Danish Songs and Hymns”. You can listen to selections from Mr. Henriksen recordings at www.pianoglenn.com.

Tickets to the event are $30 each, with proceeds going toward phase II restoration projects at the property. Tickets may be purchased at Center 1, or any of the following board members: Deb Kalousek, Berry Johnson, Jackie Dohlman, Sally Van Wert, Doreen Petersen, Mary Marquard, Lowell Lange, Jim Jorgensen, Scott Hoegh, or John Lyman.

For more information on the event, contact Doreen Petersen at 641-456-3825.

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114
Winfield Solutions - 641-456-4566
Small Business Social Media Summit www.smallbizsocialmediasummit.com
TownsEnd Winery - 641-456-2836

Find Your Fun in Franklin County

Image by J. Stephen Conn via Flickr

Franklin County Tourism has been selected as one of only 32 Iowa locations to be included in the Explore Iowa program. Explore Iowa is a guide to 32 exciting getaways throughout the beautiful state of Iowa. The Iowa Bankers Association and its successful IBA Bank Club will promote this travel package and reach over 30,000 Iowa families. The guides will be distributed to all participating banks, CVB’s, Tourism Regional Directors and package participants beginning April 1.

This package is to be used by out of town people visiting Franklin County. If you have family traveling here to visit, why not encourage them to use the Find Your Fun In Franklin County Package?

Find Your Fun in Franklin County
This package includes:
2 nights lodging Country Heritage B&B: • romantic suite with whirlpool
Full breakfast for 2
$50 chamber bucks (same as cash at specialty shops all over town)
Local guide to take you fishing - ice or regular - Guaranteed to catch fish!
Dinner for two at restaurant of your choice
Tour of 3 historical sites in Franklin County: Historical Society Museum, Old Stone House, and Harriman Nielson Historic Farm
Wine tour and sampling at Townsend Winery
A round of golf at Hampton Country Club
$250 + tax (Value $500)
Good through 4/30/11
Reservations: 641-456-5668, Brook Boehmler

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114
Winfield Solutions - 641-456-4566
Small Business Social Media Summit www.smallbizsocialmediasummit.com
TownsEnd Winery - 641-456-2836

Americas Lost Landscape

Movie Showing at Maynes Grove
Franklin County Conservation is pleased to present the films America's Lost Landscape: The Tall Grass Prairie and Restoring Fire at Maynes Grove Lodge. All interested in learning more about Iowa's native landscape and the practices that have transformed Iowa to its present state are welcome to attend. This event is free to the public and refreshments will be provided. The showing will be March 23, 2010 at 7pm. If you are interested in attending contact Franklin County Conservation at 641-456-4375 or email via our website franklincountconservation.org


Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114
Winfield Solutions - 641-456-4566
Small Business Social Media Summit www.smallbizsocialmediasummit.com
TownsEnd Winery - 641-456-2836

Troubled Waters

Documentary “Troubled Waters” Available FREE

The film “Troubled Waters” will premiere at the Iowa Water Conference in Ames on Monday, March 8. The new Iowa Learning Farm video explores rivers and the human relationship with them. “Troubled Waters” calls attention to our attitudes and treatment of rivers, both good and bad. It highlights Iowans who share their personal relationships with their local river and explores the treatment that rivers have received by humans. The video is produced by Jacqueline Comito and Jon Anderson, Anderson Production Services LLC. The film serves to launch dialogue about the issues that affect our waters and asks the viewer to appreciate rivers, to acknowledge their importance and their power. The video is filmed entirely on Iowa’s waters and features an original musical score. “Troubled Waters” will be available by request after March 9. To request your free copy of this DVD, email: ilf@iastate.edu.

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

The United States Army Field Bank in Concert in Iowa Falls

Image by rjsfan4ever via Flickr

The internationally acclaimed United States Army Field Band and Soldier’s Chorus from our nation’s capitol in Washington D.C., will be appearing in concert in the Iowa Falls Alden High School gymnasium on Monday evening, April 19th at 7:30 p.m. Music critics consider the United States Army Field Band to be one of the most versatile and inspiring musical organizations in the world. The 100 piece band and chorus, together, present a powerful and diverse program of marches, overtures, popular music, patriotic selections and instrumental solos.

Jeanne Busse, Chairman of the Warren Cultural Commission in Warren, Michigan said it all. “Superb—Magnificent and Breathtaking. It warmed my heart; brought tears to my eyes and expressed so well my love for and pride in my country.”

Tickets will be available at the Times– Citizen office beginning the middle of March. Tickets are free and required for admission to the concert. Mark Monday April 19 on your calendar and get your tickets early.

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114
Winfield Solutions - 641-456-4566
Small Business Social Media Summit www.smallbizsocialmediasummit.com
TownsEnd Winery - 641-456-2836

Monitor the Wildlife

Become an official Volunteer Wildlife Monitor!

The Volunteer Wildlife Monitoring Program is for volunteers who wish to get involved with the collection of wildlife data for the Iowa DNR Wildlife Diversity Program. We need enthusiastic and sharp-eyed volunteers who have a passion for wildlife and its conservation! For more information, visit the DNR Volunteer Wildlife Monitoring Program webpage: http://www.iowadnr.gov/wildlife/diversity/vwmp.html

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

Backyard Abundance

Backyard Abundance Introduces “Seeds of Sustainability”

Backyard Abundance and its partners have organized a series of environmental education events entitled “Seeds of Sustainability” that run through March. Screening environmental films, a seed swap, presentations on growing local food and a book discussion are scheduled in Iowa City and Coralville. The series culminates with presentations and workshops by Dave Jacke. Mr. Jacke is a nationally acclaimed ecological landscape designer and author of the award-winning book “Edible Forest Gardens.” For more information and to see a list of all events, visit the Backyard Abundance website: www.BackyardAbundance.org.


Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

Hampton Dumont School District Needs Your Help

Parents, residents, business owners—Hampton Dumont Community School District wants to know what you think of how they are doing! Please visit www.hdcsd.org and click on the survey link. These are totally anonymous surveys. You can visit the library, bank, Chamber of Commerce, Dumont Telephone Company or any school to pick up a hard copy.

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

Women in Ag Conference

So what do you know about farming? Do you own a farm and not live on it? Do you live in town and wish you knew a little bit more about farming? Want to get away for a day and network, learn more about the rural economy?

Come to the Women in Ag Conference. March 27th at the Best Western in Clear Lake . It’s only $40 for a days worth of information and fun. Stop at one of the Hampton banks and see if they will sponsor you!

Call Bev Peters for more information at 641-456-4811. Or visit www.extension.iastate.edu/franklin


Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

MARK YOUR CALENDAR CORNER

A staycation (also spelled stay-cation, stacation, or staykation) is a neologism for a period of time in which an individual or family stays at home and relaxes at home or takes day trips from their home to area attractions.

Have you started planning your summer of staycations?

Consider in June:
Tuesdays on the Town—live music, shopping and lots of fun in Hampton! Every Tuesday in June.
Alexander Quasquincentennial June 19

How about July?
Fourth of July—Breakfast at Beeds Lake, music around town and events still in planning stages
Franklin County Fair—July 14-18

Don’t forget August!
Summerfest—August 13 and 14th
Beeds Lake Run and Ham Jam—August 28
And why not visit The Old Stone House, Harriman Nielsen Historic Farm, REA Plant and/or the Historical Museum?



Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

IOW A FARMERS FEED US

Whether you’re enjoying a delicious pork chop dinner or a T-bone steak hot off the grill, farmers from across the state work hard so Iowa families and those around the world can enjoy their favorite foods.

We invite you to spend time getting to know us and our families. Watch us at work and take a quick tour of our farms so you can learn more about our dedication to growing safe food, and raising healthy crops and livestock, while protecting and conserving the land.

Visit http://FarmersFeedUS.org and WIN FREE GROCERIES FOR A YEAR!

FUN FARM FACTS
Mature turkeys have more than 3,500 feathers.
There are 47 different breeds of sheep in the U.S.
Pork is the most widely eaten meat in the world.
The average person consumes 584 pounds of dairy products a year.
Elevators in the Statue of Liberty use a soybean-based hydraulic fluid.
Like snowflakes, no two cows have exactly the same pattern of spots.
The longest recorded flight of a chicken is 13 seconds.
The average dairy cow produces seven gallons of milk a day, 2,100 pounds of milk a month, and 46,000 glasses of milk a year.
Turkeys originated in North and Central America, and evidence indicates that they have been around for more than 10 million years.
Agriculture employs more than 24 million American workers (17% of the total U.S. work force).
Today's American farmer feeds about 155 people worldwide. In 1960, that number was 25.8.
One pound of wool can make 10 miles of yarn. There are 150 yards (450 feet) of wool yarn in a baseball.
Soybeans are an important ingredient for the production of crayons. In fact, one acre of soybeans can produce 82,368 crayons.
The heaviest turkey ever raised weighed 86 pounds, about the size of an average third-grader.
It is possible to lead a cow upstairs but not downstairs, because a cow's knees cannot bend properly in order to walk down.
Cows have 4 stomachs and can detect smells up to 6 miles away!




Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

Interview With Dr. Simon Estes

Dr. Simon Estes is a professor at Wartburg College. Leon Kuehner and I had the opportunity to interview him for the upcoming Simon Estes In Residency program. Here’s a few excerpts.

Why Wagner? What about that composer that resonates with you?
Many people say he’s probably the greatest of all composers. He wrote all of his own lyrics. He wanted the human voice to be another instrument in the orchestra. You can listen to his music without the human voice and still enjoy it. Listen to Verdi (and this is where he Dr. Estes started singing). With the voice or melodic vocal line—it can be a little boring. Wagner’s music is all symphonic and beautiful. I have sung all of his operas except for one.

It’s a long way from Centerville Iowa to the places you’ve been. How did growing up in Iowa prepare you for the trip?
My faith, my parents taught me humility, the work ethic, being responsible, discipline, courage and never give up. Regardless of the obstacles. We were extraordinarily poor—by the end of the week we were hungry. My parents taught us never to hate. They taught us to pray for those who hated us. It’s a Christlike teaching that I received from my mother and father. You can hate evil, but you not not hate another human being. Pray for them.

Why did you choose Hampton to be the first county in your Roots and Wings Tour?
I believe God has a hand in this. My first voice teacher taught me for free. I told him if I ever had a career, I’d pay him back. He said No, just remain humble. I am from Iowa and I think it’s great we are starting this in Hampton. I had this idea to perform in all 99 counties. Hampton literally jumped off the map into my hands . Trent Grundmeyer made a call and we started talking and next thing you know—Hampton jumped up and demanded that we start there. What you guys are doing has blown me over. You are showing the rest of the state that Iowa can do something very special.


Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-5042
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

WHO WAS THE REAL ST. VALENTINE?

The first representation of Saint Valentine appeared in the Nuremberg Chronicle, (1493); alongside the woodcut portrait of Valentine the text states that he was a Roman priest martyred during the reign of Claudius II, known as Claudius Gothicus. He was arrested and imprisoned upon being caught marrying Christian couples and otherwise aiding Christians who were at the time being persecuted by Claudius in Rome. Helping Christians at this time was considered a crime. Claudius took a liking to this prisoner -- until Valentinus tried to convert the Emperor -- whereupon this priest was condemned to death. He was beaten with clubs and stoned; when that didn't finish him, he was beheaded outside the Flaminian Gate. Various dates are given for the martyrdom or martyrdoms: 269, 270, or 273.


Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

Six Things I Learned From Children
1. Live in the moment.      It’s great to plan and dream — but let’s not forget to enjoy where we are at this very moment.
2. Breakfast is a good thing.  A bowl of fiber cereal, maybe an egg and bacon, or just a protein shake.  Breakfast can change your world.  You set the pace for the day – and if you don’t eat breakfast, your body thinks it is starving and will save up all those calories as fat storage.
3. Toys!  More toys! We learn pretty early that toys kick start our imagination.  Little kids play with legos and learn to create cities and worlds out of little pieces of plastic.  As adults – what toys are you using every day?  I like my Blackberry Pearl, my iPod wannabe, and my laptop.  Use your toys to spark your imagination.
4. Walk away from mean people. Kids have the ability to determine if someone is worth their time.  Mean people?  They just ignore them and walk away.  What if we did the same thing?
5. Repeat repeat repeat. Kids repeat what they hear.  They say things over and over until they get it.  They repeat it to their friends.  It’s how they process things.  We could repeat the good things we hear for a change! (come on – we hear the news all day long, and its the same thing at night that you heard in the morning – and mostly all bad news.)
6. Ask for what you want.  I just got back from a road trip to Kansas.  My 5 year old great nephew asked for some toys.  He was very specific.  He wanted a Walmart sword, some Scooby Doo little plastic people and a Kansas tshirt.  Not a Missouri shirt – he had one of those already.  He got exactly what he asked for.  What do you want?

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

A Commitment to the Community

Workshifters are those that don’t always work from an office. You may find yourself at a clients, in a coffee shop or at home.

Workershifters in a rural community have a great challenge. We are asked to bring our friends and families into this century. We choose to do it, because it needs to be done. We have stepped up to the plate and expect to hit the ball out of the park. Because that is what people in rural America do - we help each other.

Score.org gives these statistics for small businesses in the rural economy:

• Since 1969, the number of self-employed persons in rural America has increased over 240 percent to 5.3 million.
• There are more than 1.2 million rural, small businesses.
• In the rural economy, small business comprises almost two-thirds of jobs and 90 percent of rural establishments.
• In the service sector, rural firms are particularly important where they account for 64 percent of rural jobs and 89 percent of rural establishments.
• It is estimated that by 2015, one in three persons in rural America will be self-employed in some capacity.

We have a commitment to the community. This workshifter is determined to work with the small businesses where she lives to keep our community vibrant, exciting and growing.
By Deb Brown

The nice thing about living in a small town is that when you don’t know what you are doing, someone else does.

Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

AMBASSADORS VISIT ALLIANT ENERGY

Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors visited Alliant Energy offices South of Hampton Wednesday February 6. Steve Gilbert, the site director conducted an informal presentation and tour of the site.
Did you know there are over 7,000 parts in one wind turbine? Iowa passed California and now only trails Texas in installed wind power generating capacity. Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce gladly welcomes Alliant Energy and their employees to Franklin County.
A wind turbine works the opposite of a fan. Instead of using electricity to make wind, a turbine uses wind to make electricity.
The wind turns the blades, which spin a shaft, which connects to a generator and makes electricity The electricity is sent through transmission and distribution lines to a substation, then on to homes, business and schools.
Visit www.alliantenergy.com for more information.


Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

Landfill of North Iowa Designated Cell Phones for Soldiers Site

The Landfill of North Iowa has teamed up with “CELL PHONES FOR SOLDIERS” and is now a designated drop off site. Citizens may donate their old cell phones, the cell phones are recycled and the revenue generated is used to purchase phone time for our troops overseas. What a great way to help support our military men and women. Dig out those old cell phones and donate them to a wonderful cause! Cell phones can be dropped off at the Landfill of North Iowa anytime during regular business hours. Drop boxes are available in the scale office and e-cycling building. To learn more call 877-LANDFILL.


Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

Have We Got a Deal for You!

Dave Hisler, Location General Manager for Schwans—New Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce Member

Have we got a deal for you!

The first 20 people that come to Center One at 5 1st Street SW in Hampton and ask for the Franklin County News Special will receive:
$5 in chamber bucks and
Over $100 in Schwans coupons
And a Schwans calendar loaded with recipes, stunning photos and more.

That’s right—for free.


Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

Think Safety During Snow Removal

Another snowstorm is on the horizon and with that knowledge I finally broke down and bought a snow blower. I have never owned or even run a snow blower in my life. I’m an old guy which is probably why I bought the machine plus the fact my wife is getting tired of scooping all this snow. I’m excited to put the machine to use which may take my mind away from operating it safely. So it is time to take a minute to consider some safety tips on moving that snow.

When I bought the snow blower the salesman checked the machine over and started it up for me. He made sure it has fresh fuel and oil in the machine, checked the tires and the oil levels in the engine and gear box and performed all required lubrication.

I need to find some time to read the owner's manual. It will give me the best insight and instructions on how to properly use each function of the blower.

One thing I have learned while watching my wife scoop snow is that she needs to remove the snow as soon as possible after the snowfall. This is true for snow blower operation too. Packed, wet, frozen or heavy snow will slow down the machine and can cause jams if the snow freezes up in the discharge chute. These jams can be solved by bringing the blower into a warmer area. If that isn't possible try using hot water, but be sure to avoid refreezing of the water.

Never put a hand in the blower unless the machine is turned off. A snow blower essentially operates like a lawn mower. It is important to clear branches and rocks out of the path. I never had this problem when my wife was moving snow. When rocks and branches get into a snow blower they can go right through my neighbor’s window. Also, if you are removing snow from an incline always go downhill at a slow speed.
Those of you who have lived in north Iowa for long know that when blowing snow; shoot it away from sidewalks or the house. When shoveling snow I always told my wife to dump the snow in the lawn which is also true for blowing snow. I’ll also be careful to avoid building snow windrows uphill from drives and walks. This will prevent the snow from thawing and then freezing across pathways.

I’m looking forward to having this snow blower provide a semi-retirement for my wife and her snow shoveling career. All I have to do is follow these snow blowing tips to be sure that retirement lasts for a long time.

By Gary Hall Iowa State University Regional Extension Education Director


Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

How to Fix the Economy

Got this in my email today and just had to share, it’s brilliant! No clue about the actual numbers, but it could be off by nearly the population of the US and still cost less than the bailouts.
The Fix
There recently was an article in the St. Petersburg Fl. Times. The Business Section asked readers for ideas on: “How Would You Fix the Economy?”
I think this guy nailed it!
_____
Dear Mr. President,
Please find below my suggestion for fixing America ’s economy. Instead of giving billions of dollars to companies that will squander the money on lavish parties and unearned bonuses, use the following plan. You can call it the “Patriotic Retirement Plan”:
There are about 40 million people over 50 in the work force. Pay them $1 million apiece severance for early retirement with the following stipulations:
1) They MUST retire. Forty million job openings – Unemployment fixed.
2) They MUST buy a new American CAR. Forty million cars ordered – Auto Industry fixed.
3) They MUST either buy a house or pay off their mortgage – Housing Crisis fixed.
It can’t get any easier than that!!
P.S. If more money is needed, have all members in Congress pay their taxes…
Mr. President, while you’re at it, make Congress retire on Social Security and Medicare. I’ll bet both programs would be fixed pronto!
(found this on the internet at http://mycustomday.wordpress.com/2010/01/15/fixing-the-economy/)


Hampton Today made possible by sponsors like:
Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
Denise Passehl – Watkins – 641-580-4052
Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114

Image via Wikipedia

ISU EXTENSION ANNOUNCES IOWA 4-H SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 2010

The Iowa 4-H Foundation announces the 2010 scholarship programs for 4‑H’ers attending or planning to attend college fall 2010. More than 100 scholarship programs totaling over $100,000 may be awarded.
The various awards range in amounts from $500 to $5,000. Some of the scholarships are open to students pursuing any field of study, while others are open to students pursuing degrees in agriculture, food and nutrition, ag business, animal science, and journalism. Former Iowa 4-H'ers and current 4-H'ers graduating from high school are eligible applicants.

The majority of the scholarships will be awarded to students attending Iowa State University. Some scholarships are also available to students planning to attend another Iowa Regent university, Iowa private college, or Iowa community college.

Contact the Franklin County Extension Office to receive a scholarship application or to receive more information about individual scholarships at 641-456-4811 or jackied@iastate.edu 4-H Scholarship information, forms, and applications are also available on the 4-H public web page:
www.extension.iastate.edu/4H/teens/scholarships.htm.


Applications are due before or on February 1, 2010, to 4-H Scholarships, Extension 4-H Youth Bldg-ISU, Ames, Iowa 50011-3630.
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Michelle Hartman – Tupperware –641-373-8880
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Franklin County Farmers Market 641-456-4811
Patrick Palmer – The Computer Guy – 641-420-1234
Seven Stars Restaurant – 641-456-5378
Debra Brown – Melaleuca - 641-458-1114