Odebolt Betterment Committee

About the Peterson Pioneer House

2012-01-16T07:18:00.000-06:00

Many of the Chronicle readers have been following information in the City Council and Odebolt Betterment Committee minutes about The Peterson Pioneer Home Relocation Project. In 1996, charter member of Questers, Phyllis Kies, wrote the following interesting narrative briefly explaining the history of the home and the origin of the restoration. Even though a few details have since changed, it will still refresh the memory or inform!

"The Peterson Pioneer Home is the oldest home in Odebolt, Iowa, that is as it was originally built.

Nils Magnus Peterson and his wife, Maria (Mary) Caroline Olson, came to Odebolt from Sweden in 1885. On December 28, 1885, they purchased a lot in Odebolt for $100, for their homestead. Erection of the house was started and completed in 1886. Nils was a carpenter. The town of Odebolt was laid out and lots were sold in 1877, so the Peterson family was among the earliest residents.

Five children were raised in this small frame house. They were Edith, Maria, Albert, Jennie Caroline, Esther Margaret, and Carl Charles (called Charles B.) Baby Carl died en route to Iowa. (The two Carls seem strange, but that is according to records.) Nils Peterson passed away in 1906. He was followed in death by his wife in 1922. All of the children left Odebolt along the way (descendents are in South Dakota and Illinois) except Edith (unmarried), who continued to live in the house until she passed away in the spring of 1973.

The house is small – a living room (that’s where the pot-bellied stove is), a small bedroom (parent’s – Edith’s bed is there – it’s the only fit piece of furniture that was in the house when we were given permission to restore it), a kitchen (the stove in the kitchen is unusual – the oven has doors on both sides), and a small pantry with shelves. A steep stairway leads to the two bedrooms upstairs, one for the boys and one for the girls. From the back door a sidewalk led to the alley where one building housed a space for cobs, coal, wood, and the outhouse (it was not restorable). Edith had a beautiful flower garden in the backyard which the local 4-H girls cared for until the town decided to mow everything!! Outside the back door was a pump that furnished the water. A slanted cellar door leads to the dirt basement.

During later years, because Edith was very poor and as they said at the time “was on the county”, she could not pay taxes so the town council approached her and said that they would take care of her, along with the county, as long as she lived, if she would agree to give her property to the town of Odebolt when she died. She agreed, and they put electricity in each of the rooms (just a bulb hanging from the ceiling), put in running water (a stool in the pantry and a sink in the kitchen – one faucet for cold water) and an old electric stove. When she passed away they intended to sell the house and lot for the lot price!

However, when she passed away, knowing the town council’s plans, we Questers attended their next meeting and asked to have permission to restore the house to its original state. They were very unhappy with us, but they couldn’t turn us down! We asked to have permission to restore it in preparation for our centennial celebration during the summer of 1977, and that if they wanted to do otherwise with it after that, it would be their right. (My husband said that he got a kick out of hearing many of the town fathers calling us “a bunch of crazy old women” – at that time we were fairly young!) Of course we have continued to care for it ever since.

We took out the electricity, the stool, the sink and the stove and stripped the interior completely. The floors are as they were originally – wide boards, oiled. The local druggist told us that he had old wall paper in the basement of his store that was at our disposal. It was dry and crisp but we soaked it with wall paper paste and hung fresh wall paper in each room. The curtains Edith had hanging at the windows were taken down and I washed them in the gentle cycle and they turned out beautifully. There were no curtains in the kitchen and pantry so I made some of unbleached muslin. We contacted the Odebolt residents through the local news paper asking for articles for the home – either loaned or donated. (We have signed statements for each on file) and that is the way the home has been furnished. There are still two of us on the furnishing committee that have to be contacted and the article has to be approved or otherwise recommended for the local museum. Furnishings for the home are as nearly as possible of the late 1880-1890’s. Local volunteers keep the exterior painted.

Local second grade children tour the home every spring and it is opened for visitors on the first Sunday afternoon of each month during the summer or by appointment throughout the year. The town clerk contacts me whenever she has an out-of-town inquiry.

We started work the spring we were given permission to restore the home and by that fall we were able to have our first open house. The brochure was ready for distribution at that time."

Watch for other articles forthcoming! Plans are coming together to move The Peterson Pioneer Home to the educational, historical square across from the Odebolt Museum, Historic Adams Bank and adjacent to the Corner Green Space and Richland #1 Country School House. You may call City Hall to make arrangements to tour the home. Keep your eyes and ears open for an invitation to an Omelet Brunch in the coming months! Donations of any amount are now being gratefully accepted by Deb Reinhart, Treasurer of the Odebolt Betterment Committee.

As they say…………..STAY TUNED !!!!!!

1-10-12 OBC Meeting Minutes

2012-01-15T12:20:00.002-06:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee met Jan. 10, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. at the Downtown Café. Present were Elaine Rex, Kathy Willhoite, Howard Hustedt, Kerry and Deb Reinhart, Carol Raasch, Jack Bensley, and Linda Godbersen.

The minutes of previous meeting were read. Howard made a motion to accept the minutes as read, Kerry seconded. All ayes.

Bank balance at this time is $5,939.05. Breakdown as followed:
Undesignated: $445.95
City Park: $2,820.55
Greenspace: $11.55
Sign Landscape: $61.00
Peterson Pioneer Home Relocation: $2,350
Jack made a motion to accept the treasurer report, Elaine seconded. All ayes
There is $300.91 in Iowa State for upkeep on Triangle Park.

Carol gave a report on the Rural School Project. At this time electricity has been run to the building. The electricity was supposed to be trenched but there is too much debris in the ground so a pole was installed. Shingles and windows have been ordered, they are waiting on the contractor to install them.

Kerry gave update on the City Park Project. The project has been completed and the final report for the Sac Co. Endowment Foundation has been filled out and Kerry delivered it to Sac City. Mid American has given the Odebolt Betterment Committee a donation of $250.00 for the park project, Kerry will install a new walk in door on the west side of the enclosed shelter house.

Kerry has talked to Vance about sealing and highlighting the signs, Vance stated that he will check on this. Also was noted that some of the plants around the signs will have to be replaced, Vance stated that he will pay for having them replaced.

Kathy gave a report on the Peterson Pioneer Home. Kris and Deb have worked on the Sac Co. Endowment Foundation grant and the INS grant. There are plans for an omelet brunch in the near future; there are still some details that need to be worked out. United Bank of Iowa will be making a donation towards this project on Jan. 17th, Elaine, Ron and Howard will accept if for the Odebolt Betterment Committee.

There has been no mention on the County property, but we need to come up with some type of plan for this area before we meet with the County Engineer. Maybe this area will be a future plan for the committee.

As of Feb. 3, 2011 Jamboree Foods will close their doors. Howard has talked to several people about this and would like to know our thoughts on trying to get someone in the building. There may be a community meeting on this subject to see if there is enough interest in the community to keep the store open. If anyone has any comments please let Howard know.

Future plans for this spring may be the M43 intersection, the pool area and the Monument Circle.

The next meeting will be Feb. 14, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. at the Downtown Café.
Secy/Treas
Deb Reinhart

11/8/11 OBC meeting minutes

2012-01-02T10:26:00.000-06:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee met Nov. 8, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. at the Downtown Café.

(Excerpts)

City Park
- We are still waiting for Odebolt Tree Service to finish the tree trimming.
- We have had some trouble with mischief in the park, and contacted the authorities and will continue watching the area.
- Bob Lickteig has done a nice job on repairing and repainting the entrance pillars. We would like the thank Mark and Tandy Reis for the use of water for this project.

Country School
- The Country School has been moved to town. Carol Raasch received compliments on the coverage from the area news stations and papers. She will apply for the Sac. Co. Endowment Foundation grant.

Peterson Pioneer Home.
- We received a $100.00 donation towards the Peterson Pioneer House Relocation Project from Kris Ziegmann at this time.
- City Council ok'd the move

- In process of writing for grants.

- Madeline Meyer has retired has OBC chair person and Linda Godbersen will take over as Chair person the first of the year.

Our next meeting will be Jan. 10, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. at the Downtown Café.
Click for the full minutes

Iowa Farmer Today article

2011-11-21T13:12:00.003-06:00

Article from "Iowa Farmer Today" about the Rural Legacy Project.
Read the article on-line.

Council approves Pioneer Home move to downtown

2011-11-11T07:38:00.001-06:00

During the November 7, 2011 Odebolt City Council meeting the move of the Peterson Pioneer Home to 2nd Street in downtown Odebolt was approved.

(From Council minutes) "Kris Ziegmann and Kerry Reinhart were present representing the Pioneer Home Project. In conjunction with the Odebolt Betterment Committee they are seeking Council approval to move the building to 2nd Street in the vicinity of Richland # 1 School House. Kris gave projections on future plans and costs. She is working on several grants to help fund the project and they will be having a fund raiser in the near future. Following questions it was moved by Hemphill and seconded by Scott to approve the project."

October OBC Meeting Minutes

2011-11-02T20:55:00.004-05:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee met Oct. 11, 2011 at 6:00 at the Downtown Café. Present were Kris Ziegmann, Kerry and Deb Reinhart, Linda Godbersen, Madeline Meyer, Jack Bensley, Joan Godbersen, Don and Audrey Poppen Frieda Stehr, Elaine Rex, Kathie Willhoite, and Joel Ahart.

Minutes of the previous meeting were accepted and written.

The bank balance at this time is $4,114.33. Breakdown as followed:
Undesignated: $323.45
City Park: $3,684.33
Green space: $45.55
Sign Landscape: $61.00

We received a $100.00 donation from the Alumni Reunion Committee with a thank you for Madeline speaking at the reunion.

Joan reported that Mid America has contacted her on what community projects were taking place in Odebolt and she reported on the park project. They stated that they would be sending a $250.00 donation for this project.

There is $300.91 in savings at Iowa State Bank for upkeep on the Triangle Park.

Joan had contacted Deb to see if the OBC was interested in applying for the TREES PLEASE grant. Kerry has contacted Bill and Theresa Fertig to see if they would be interested in planting trees on their property west of town. We have not heard from them at this time. Linda will contact Theresa and see if they are interested in paying the match and once they are planted the trees would be their responsibility.

Kerry reported that Bob Lickteig has power washed, repaired cracks and painted the pillars. The estimate for this was $380.00. Deb will pay when she receives a bill. Odebolt Tree Service has started trimming trees, we hope that he will have this completed by the 1st of Nov. so that we can finish up the Sac Co. Endowment Foundation grant. Joan asked about putting a new entry door on the west side of the enclosed shelter house. Kerry said that he would do it and it was decided that a solid door would be installed. Linda reported that she thought there was something wrong with the faucet on the north side of the bathroom, Kerry will check it out. Linda also cleaned up around the playground equipment.

Kerry has been watering the trees on Main Street and will water them again before winter arrives. The 3 trees by the west entrance sign need to be watered, Kerry will see if he will be able to do this.

The Richland #1 school has been moved into Carol’s yard and is ready for the move into town. We do not need to help the movers as they have this under control. After it is in position, Greg Neville Const. will get it ready to be placed on the foundation.

Kathie and Kris will prepare a plan for the Peterson Pioneer Home. They will talk to Howard about fund raising. Any donations will be deposited into the OBC checking account. They will look into fund raising projects such as a brunch; maybe see if the 4-H will help with this event. Other projects may include note cards, t-shirts and maybe crocks.

Madeline shared a scrapbook of the progress of the Peterson Pioneer home. Madeline asked for a motion for Odebolt Betterment Committee to be willing to be a sponsor of the moving of the Pioneer Home from its present location to 2nd street, along with the Questors and any other organization that would like to join. Kerry motioned and Linda seconded, all ayes that OBC would be willing to take on this project. We have received a bid from Electric Co.of $400.00 for electrical and Kris will work with Greg Neville Const. on which foundation is best for the house. Elaine has a bid of $4,000 from Dale Hoefling for moving the house. Kerry and Kris will put up plywood to cover back door for the winter.

Deb, Kris and Linda are planning on going to the Sac Co. Endowment Fund training on Oct. 25th for the Odebolt Betterment. Elaine will go on Oct. 26.

Other project possibilities that were discussed were maybe the pool area and the cemetery.

Election of officers were held. Linda was nominated for chairperson. Deb motioned to accept, Frieda seconded . All ayes. Deb was nominated for secretary-treasurer. Joan motioned to accept, Jack seconded. All ayes.

It was mentioned that the entrance signs need to be resealed. Kerry will talk to Vance about this.

Next meeting will be Nov. 8th at 6:00 at Downtown Café.

Video of the Richland #1 Schoolhouse move to Odebolt

2011-10-24T12:08:00.002-05:00

Video by Carol Raasch posted on YouTube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiOaQ5-_Gcg

This link should take you to the video I uploaded on the move last Tuesday.
(I apologize for several black spaces in the video....some for a minute or so! You
might want to fast-forward those places.) I couldn't bear to cut out too much.
- Carol

Photos of 10-18-11 Schoolhouse move to Odebolt

2011-10-21T19:01:00.004-05:00

Photos taken by Carol Raasch of Richland #1 Schoolhouse begin moved from the country into Odebolt on October 18, 2011.
Read news stories about the move

Rural Legacy Project needs Documentarian

2011-10-05T17:35:00.005-05:00

Documentarian Needed

The Rural Legacy Project City of Odebolt Steering Committee is in need of a special person who may wish to clip out, organize and preserve all of the publicity about the steps that our project is taking. While we have been able to plan out and publicize the project at hand, we are in need of someone to locate those articles and photos and put them into a resource that will document the project as well as preserve the information for others wishing to do something similar. If you want to take part in the Rural Legacy Project in this manner, please contact Carol Raasch at 712-668-4285.

September 2011 Minutes

2011-10-04T17:39:00.005-05:00

Click to read our September 13, 2011 minutes

Our next meeting is Tuesday, October 11th, 6 p.m. at Odebolt's DownTown Cafe.

City Park entrance receives a 100th birthday gift

2011-10-03T20:05:00.005-05:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee with Greg Neville Const. and Bob Lickteig, along with the support of Sac Co. Endowment Foundation, Tuesday Club and individuals, have made some improvements to the northwest corner of the City Park. The erosion problem at the entrance has been taken care of and the pillars have received a power wash, some patching and a new coat of paint.

2011-08-24T17:25:00.003-05:00

Work started today on the Rural Legacy Project.

The foundation for Richland #1 is being poured by Greg Neville Construction. Plans to move the school are being made for the latter part of September. This project is being made possible by Sac County Endowment Foundation, the Gil and Barbara Renze Grant, and individuals. If you would like to learn more about the Rural Legacy Project our next meeting will be held August 30, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church in Odebolt or if you would like to contribute you can leave you contribution at Iowa State Bank in Odebolt.

August 9, 2011 OBC Meeting Minutes

2011-08-18T19:56:00.004-05:00

EXCERPTS FROM THE AUGUST 9 MEETING ( CLICK FOR THE FULL MINUTES )

CITY PARK: The only thing we are waiting for to complete this year’s project is for Odebolt Tree Service to trim trees. This needs to be done by the 1st of October. Next year’s park project will include adding some seating around the playground area, adding another picnic area to the north of the enclosed shelter house, extending the enclosed shelter house and preserving the entrance pillars. Deb is putting the finishing details for the REAP grant for this project.

RURAL LEGACY PROJECT: Madeline stated the Rural Legacy is planning on beginning their project in late August.

PETERSON PIONEER HOUSE
The Questors had a good discussion about what needs to be done to preserve this house and they think that moving it down to 2nd Street would be a good idea. They asked if the OBC would help them to move it to this location. After the move they will take care of repairs and the tours. Discussion was held and it was decided in order to have both buildings look nice they should each be facing 2nd Street, with the School House set correctly to accent the Greenspace Park. Mayor Rex has talked to the movers and they will come sometime this week to see if the house is structurally sound to move. The Questors asked if the present lot of the Pioneer Home would be sold if this money would come to the Pioneer Home Project.

Next meeting will be held Sept 13 at 6:00 at the Downtown Café.

July 12, 2011 Odebolt Betterment Comm. Minutes

2011-07-27T21:27:00.003-05:00

Click here to read the July 12th Odebolt Betterment Committee meeting minutes (.pdf)

Rural Legacy receives Sac County Endowment check

2011-07-21T18:48:00.011-05:00

The Rural Legacy Project Steering Committee of the City of Odebolt is proud to announce the receipt of a $5,500.00 check awarded by the Sac County Endowment Foundation for the purpose of starting the preparation for the site and the moving of the Richland #1 school building to Odebolt. Shown in the photo receiving the check are, left to right: Carol Raasch, Chair of the Steering Committee; Ron Rex, Mayor of Odebolt; and Deb Reinhart, grant writer.

The project can now move ahead with plans to lay out a concrete foundation for the building at the site on 2nd Street and to prepare the building for the move to town. It is hoped that the school building, when finished, will become a representative example of how rural school buildings were constructed and laid out in the western 2/3 of Iowa; how they led the development of the rural life structures of the community; and how these schools were the center of the lives of many families still represented in this community.

For more information, check out other Rural Legacy posts or contact one of the committee members.

Good News for Rural Legacy

2011-07-16T18:45:00.003-05:00

(Click image to enlarge it)

The Rural Legacy Committee has received word that they have been awarded a $5,000.00 grant from the Gilbert and Barbara Renze Foundation. We will be receiving the money around the 1st of August. We are planning on starting work in late August.

If you are interested in contributing to this project please make your check payable to the Rural Legacy Project and send your contributions to
Carol Raasch
1870 290th St
Odebolt, Iowa 51458

June 28, 2011 Rural Legacy Project meeting minutes

2011-07-14T21:02:00.002-05:00

The Rural Legacy Project held their monthly meeting June 28,2011 at the Odebolt Presbyterian Church . The meeting was opened at 7:00 p.m. with 9 in attendance: Carol Raasch, Sandy Host, Deb Reinhart, Irene Thayer, Madeline Meyer, Barbara Bloom, Greg Raasch, Melissa Raasch and Ways Raasch. The minutes of the May meeting were read and approved.

The treasurer, Greg, reported a total balance of $26,615.10. Carol presented bills that needed to be paid at this time. Sandy moved that these bills be paid, seconded by Madeline. Motion carried.

The Rural Legacy Project has received a check for $5,500 from the Sac County Endowment Foundation. Carol read a letter received from the Keep Iowa Beautiful grant rejecting our request. We will be applying for the Gil and Barb Renze Grant. Deb, Irene and Carol will work to fill this out and have it turned in by the due date of July 6.

A special thank you to Kerry, Deb, Greg and Ways for putting up the location sign before Creek Days. Some discussion was held regarding the location of our building in respect of future buildings which maybe added to the area. We will recheck the measurements and present position. We will begin to plan the process regarding the cleaning and restoration tasks. Sandy will meet with a restoration architect June 29, to inspect the present building structure and concerns. It was agreed that we want the 1883 style. Sandy will report next month on the findings.

Eighty-six books were sold during Creek Days. We are still receiving orders for $30 each ($36 if mailed).We will check out other events and locations for promoting the sales. The Odebolt web site is providing information and it will also be published in the Ida Co. Courier, Sac Sun and Odebolt Chronicle. Currently the books are available for sale at Iowa State Bank.

Monetary gifts of $100 or more will be recognized with a card of thanks. Thank you notes will be sent to those giving donations-in-kind as well as monetary. The City of Odebolt and Sac Co. Endowment Foundation will be sent note of appreciation.Some guidelines will be establish for items to be included in the museum. We will work with the Odebolt Museum to clarify these.

Our next meeting will be July 26, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. at the Odebolt Presbyterian Church.

June Minutes

2011-06-26T11:21:00.003-05:00

Click for the June 14, 2011 OBC Meeting Minutes (.pdf file)

A busy week at City Park

2011-06-06T21:12:00.004-05:00

It has been a busy time at the Odebolt City Park. Within the past week Greg Neville and his construction crew have finished resurfacing the basketball court and installing new basketball hoops. They also added a sidewalk to the open shelterhouse, added on a patio area to the enclosed shelterhouse and reconstructed the area around the pillars. Joel Ahart of J&A Lawn Service has finished up the dirt work and has reseeded. Be sure to check us out when you are in town for "Creek Days". Thank you to the Sac Co. Endowment Foundation, City of Odebolt, Iowa Network Services, Tuesday Club , Ingleside Club and many individuals who made this project happen.

OBC City Park Project Progress

2011-05-24T20:53:00.005-05:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee has been busy at the City Park. We have added windows, counter top and ceiling fans to the shelter house. The Electric Co. has rewired the shelter house. The Odebolt Tree Service has removed 5 tree stumps and when weather permits will do some trimming. Greg Neville Const. has started on the concrete work. J&A Lawn service will do some reseeding in the area and the Wall Lake Hardware will do some updating in the restroom area.

The flower bed on the south end of the park is a nice addition and we would like to thank Twyla Godbersen for the statue and Dale Godbersen and Guy Trimble for helping in assisting in the project. We would like to say"Thank You" to Iowa Network Services, Sac Co. Endowment Foundation, City of Odebolt, Tuesday Club, Ingelside Club and individuals for making this project possible.

5-10-11 OBC Meeting Minutes

2011-05-20T17:48:00.001-05:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee met May 10, 2011 at the DownTown Café. Present were Phyllis Franken, Joan Godbersen, Linda Godbersen, Janet Leonard, Kerry and Deb Reinhart, Jack Bensley, Madeline Meyer, Freida Stehr, Sandy Host and Roxie Meier.

Meyer called the meeting to order. Last month’s minutes were approved as written. The bank balance is $8,662.

Kerry Reinhart gave a report on progress at the city park. We have finished painting the shelterhouse and the privacy fence around the restroom area; four new windows and six-feet of countertop have been installed; and the Electric Company has finished the wiring update with installation of two ceiling fans.

On May 11, Linda Godbersen and Kerry and Deb Reinhart met at the park to build a flowerbed on the south side of the restroom area. Deb and Linda will work with Amy Stangl on a grant from the Sac County 4-H Foundation to plant flowers in this area.

Odebolt Tree Service has finished removing five stumps and filling in the holes. The rest of the work will be done as weather permits.

Meier was present to suggest future projects for the Odebolt Swimming Pool. The committee is checking on the feasibility of these projects.

Bensley had nothing to report on the county property.

Sandy Host gave a report on the Richland #1 school renovation.

Howard Hustedt wasn’t present. He reported that the memorial plaques should be set in time for Odebolt Creek Days. They will be set between the pergola and the flagpoles.

Meyer and Kerry Reinhart have checked on the trees and shrubs to see if they survived the winter and they have. Meyer will contact Marjo’s to see if the trees in the Greenspace Park should be watered since this is their first year. If they do, she will take care of watering them.

We will set up a table at Creek Days. Deb Reinhart will get some pictures of past and present projects to Linda Godbersen and have them enlarged. Deb is working on new pamphlets.

The next meeting is June 14 at 6 p.m. at the DownTown Café.

If you would like to learn more about the Odebolt Betterment Committee, attend our meetings.

- Deb Reinhart Secretary

April 12, 2011 OBC Mtg Minutes

2011-05-01T15:28:00.002-05:00

Click for the 4-12-2011 MINUTES (.pdf file)

HIGHLIGHTS
- Discussion on possibility of moving the County sand pile and doing a project in the area. This would need State and County permission.

- Rural Legacy Project update (moving the country school into town);

- Update on City Park project. New windows, counter top, wiring, ceiling fans in shelter;tree Stump removal, etc.

- Memorial plaque ordered from Christensen-Huffman with list of contributors for Downtown Greenspace.

- Next meeting to be Tuesday, May 10th at the Downtown Cafe.

Work starts at City Park

2011-04-03T14:40:00.003-05:00

Odebolt Betterment has started work at the Odebolt City Park this past week. New windows have been added in the shelterhouse and the Electric Co. has started updating the wiring , with new ceiling fans to be added. Also planned for the park is some landscaping, resurfacing the basketball area, tree trimming, which has been started by Odebolt Tree Service, and updating around the restroom area. This work is being done with the help from the Sac County Endowment Foundation , City of Odebolt, Tuesday Club and individuals. If you are interested in donating to the park project you can mail your contribution to Iowa State Bank and designate City Park Project or if you would like to volunteer you can call Kerry or Deb Reinhart.

Odebolt Betterment Committee receives funding for City Park

2011-03-13T15:40:00.004-05:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee is pleased to announce that they have received funding this past week for the City Park Project. This funding has been made possible by the Sac County Endowment Foundation, City of Odebolt, INS, Tuesday Club and individuals. This money will be used to make some much needed improvements in the City Park.

These improvements will include remodeling the enclosed shelter house, by installing some windows, a counter top for serving, updating the wiring and installing ceiling fans. Also we plan to replace some of the sidewalk, taking care of the erosion problem, resurfacing the basketball court, installing the basketball hoops, doing some work around the restroom area, stump removal and installing a sidewalk to the open shelter house.

Our plans are to start this project around the 1st of April. If anyone is interested in donating to this project you may drop your donation at Iowa State Bank and designate to the City Park. Or if you would like to volunteer to this project or have any questions please call Kerry or Deb Reinhart.

You can check out our past projects at http://odeboltobc.blogspot.com/

CLICK HERE for the March 8, 2011 OBC Meeting minutes

OBC Feb. 8, 2011 Meeting Minutes

2011-02-14T18:06:00.003-06:00

Excerpts:
OBC will be the recipient of a $1300.00 grant from Iowa Network Services, designated for the shelter house.

Update on the country school progress: Sandy Host has been to the City Council meeting and has their approval to move the school to the east half of the vacant lot west of the Greenspace on Second Street. OBC will coordinate with Sandy on their part in the project.

Kerry Reinhart has arranged to get an Iowa flag through Senator Kettering and Howard Hustedt will obtain a US flag from the Legion for the Greenspace. Both flags need replacing.

READ THE FULL MINUTES (pdf file)

January 18, 2011 Meeting

2011-01-23T17:46:00.007-06:00

Highlights of the January OBC meeting ...
** Officers were re-elected: Madeline Meyer,Chairperson, Linda Godbersen, Co-Chairperson and Deb Reinhart, Secy/Treas

** The plaque for Downtown Greenspace will be ready to put in place in the spring, and a new flag will be ordered from the American Legion to put up in the spring.

** Sandy Kessler Host gave a report on the work that she has done on the renovation of the Richland #1 Country School and the book that she has written titled “Iowa’s Lost Treasure-The Rural School System 1858-1953.” A majority of the school’s furnishings and documents have been located. The Odebolt Betterment Committee voted to support Sandy's hope of moving and renovating the Richland #1 Country School to the 70’ lot west of the Greenspace.

Read the full minutes (.pdf)

Click the photo to enlarge it.

(Photo courtesy of Sandy Kessler Host)
Richland #1 Country School - Class of 1945-46 Vilma Rehm, teacher
Foot, Bicycle, and Pony Transportation:
Back row: Margaret Einsphar, Joan Siebrecht, Elaine Miller, Calvin Sewell, James Buehler.
Front row: Genevieve Raasch, Donna Sewell, Patty Brucker, Helen Kessler.
Bicycles: Lois Kessler, Ruth Kessler, Howard Einsphar.
Ponies: James Sewell, Jim Meyer, Robert Siebrecht, Edward Brown, Paul Miller

November Minutes

2010-11-24T20:55:00.003-06:00

Click below for the November minutes
November 9, 2010 OBC Meeting Minutes (.pdf file)

Future Plans for the City Park

2010-10-31T16:37:00.004-05:00

     The Odebolt Betterment Committee is making plans for some much needed improvements in the City Park for next year. The improvements will include: updating the enclosed shelterhouse by installing more outlets, 2 ceiling fans, a serving counter and 4 new windows. These updates will make the shelterhouse user friendly.
     We will also do some repair work on the outside of the building and finish by giving it a sprucing up.
     We also plan on installing a walkway to the open shelterhouse. This will make this area accessible to everyone who wishes to use this area for a picnic or just to enjoy the afternoon.
     We would also like to do some landscaping in the area to make it more eye appealing and resurface the basketball court and install backboards and hoops.
     We are in the process of applying for several grants to help with these projects, but we are in need of your contributions also. If you have any questions about this project please contact Kerry or Deb Reinhart, or if you would like to contribute to this cause please mail to Deb Reinhart Box 34, Odebolt, Iowa 51458 or you can drop your donation at Iowa State Bank and designate the City Park Project.
If you are interested in learning more about the Odebolt Betterment Committee feel free to attend one of our monthly meetings usually held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 6:00 at City Hall. This month's meeting will be held Nov. 9.

October 12 Meeting Minutes

2010-10-20T07:50:00.002-05:00

The October meeting minutes are now posted at
www.odebolt.net/obc_minutes.html

2010-10-07T20:28:00.005-05:00

Click for the September 14, 2010 OBC Meeting Minutes

The landscaping is complete around the open shelterhouse at the City Park. Many plans are being made for the City Park in the future. Watch here for details.

Finishing touches are going on the Downtown Greenspace Project pergola by Chase Miller.

2010-08-15T10:11:00.003-05:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee and BDH Construction Bryce Hustedt and Hernandez Roofing by Rafael Hernandez have finished the revitalization of the open shelter house at the City Park. The future plans for this area are to do some landscaping around the shelter house and to put in a sidewalk to the shelter house. If you are interested in contributing to this project please take your contribution to Iowa State Bank and designate City Park Project. If you would like to learn more about the Odebolt Betterment Committee you may attend our meetings usually held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month.

Watch for the playground equipment coming soon to the City Park.

READ THE AUGUST 3RD MEETING MINUTES

2010-07-14T17:41:00.002-05:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee, Lundell Plastics, and the OA/BCIG School have completed the landscaping around the FFA sign on the west edge of Odebolt on Highway 175.

Progress on Downtown Greenspace Project

2010-07-03T07:29:00.007-05:00

     The Odebolt Betterment Committee’s Downtown Greenspace Project is one step closer to becoming a reality.
     The community, City of Odebolt , Mid-American Energy and the Sac Co. Endowment Foundation have helped make this dream come true.
     The Electric Co. and Gary’s Backhoe and Trenching Service have made all the preparations for the lights and clock to be placed in the near future. Greg Neville Construction and Bohlmann Concrete have finished placing a picnic table, benches and planters. The Prairie Pedlar has furnished the planting for this area.
     If you are interested in donating to this project and having your name on the plaque of contributors please have your contribution sent by July 15, 2010 to
Deb Reinhart
Box 34
Odebolt, Iowa 51458
or take them to Iowa State Bank and designate "Greenspace." in the memo line.
Recent contributors to the Downtown Greenspace Project are Margaret & John Hubiak, Roger & Ruth Neville, Eleanor Peterson, and Jerry and Donna Reynolds.

2010-06-20T16:32:00.003-05:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee with Odebolt-Arthur Ministerial Association has completed the landscaping around the church sign west of Odebolt on Hwy. 175

2010-06-10T19:24:00.002-05:00

Work has begun on the Odebolt Betterment Committee's Downtown Greenspace. The community, Sac Co. Endowment Foundation and City of Odebolt have helped make this a reality. There will be a horseshoe-shaped sidewalk,benches, table, lights,flag poles and a clock. The work is being done by Greg Neville Construction, Electric Co. and Mid-American Energy. If you are interested in donating to this project please take your contribution to Iowa State Bank and designate Downtown Greenspace Project. Thanks

May 11th minutes

2010-05-21T09:33:00.003-05:00

Lots of projects in the works! Click below for the May Minutes.
http://www.odebolt.net/obc_minutes.html

To the right is a photo of the "Centennial Clock" which was chosen for the Downtown Greenspace Project. It was ordered May 15th. Funds from a grant received from the Sac County Endowment Foundation were used for purchase of the clock. Benches, a table and trash can will be ordered soon for the Greenspace.

2010-04-25T17:50:00.006-05:00

Work has started on the City Park. Bengford Landscaping was hired to set the edgers and place the rock. Along with the help of the Odebolt Betterment Committee, Vance Lundell and financial support of the community the first step is complete. The next step is to place a picnic table, 1 bench and place something on top of the pedestal. If anyone knows of what used to set on this please contact us at obcodebolt@gmail.com.

April 2010 meeting

2010-04-17T14:15:00.003-05:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee met April 13, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. There is much happening this summer. We have checked all of the trees to see if they survived the harsh winter and noticed that 1 concolor will have to be replaced.

Howard gave an update on the Downtown Greenspace Project. The community along with the Sac County Endowment Foundation have been very generous with their support of this project. Our plans are to start on this project approximately May 1st.

Kerry has plans to do some landscaping at the City Park to help slow the erosion. With the support of the community and INS this will be starting in a few weeks. Taylor Bengford will be doing the work for this project.

If anyone is interested in donating to either of these projects please contact Howard Hustedt, Joan Godbersen, or Deb Reinhart or leave your donation at Iowa State Bank. Please put in the memo which project you are donating to.

Our next meeting will be Tuesday, May 11, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall.

To learn more about the Odebolt Betterment Committee you can log on at http://odeboltobc.blogspot.com/

March meeting

2010-03-15T17:53:00.002-05:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee held their monthly meeting March 9, 2010 at Odebolt City Hall. We had much to discuss as we have received two greatly appreciated grants. The first one is from the Sac County Endowment Foundation which will be used for the Downtown Greenspace Project on the corner of 2nd and Main. Matching funds are needed for this project, if interested in donating please leave your donations at Iowa State Bank and specify Greenspace Project. If you have any questions on this project contact Howard Hustedt or Linda Godbersen.

The second grant was received from INS for a landscaping project at the City park to help with erosion and create a centrally located picnic area that will give you an overall view. This grant was made possible by the generosity of INS Charity Grant Program, and the support of Sac. Co. Mutual Telephone, Mayor Ron Rex and Senator Steve Kettering. If any one would like to donate to this project, please leave your donations at Iowa State Bank and specify City park. If you have any questions on this project contact Kerry or Deb Reinhart.

The next meeting will be held April 13 at 6:00 at City Hall.

Click to read the MARCH 9TH MINUTES

Good news for OBC City Park project

2010-03-07T13:22:00.005-06:00

On March 5, 2010 INS representative, J.D.Siebret and Sac County Mutual Telephone general manager, Ron Sorensen, presented a $1500.00 Iowa Network Services Charity Grant to the Odebolt Betterment Committee. This money will be used to purchase an all-weather picnic table and bench for the City park.

Our plans for this summer are to do some landscaping around the oak tree. We will be putting some curb around the tree, with landscaping fabric and 3/4 inch rock to help the run-off when it rains. The bench and picnic table will be placed in this area when finished. When we were in the park this past August, the monarch butterflies were migrating and had landed in this tree for a rest on their way south.

We are looking for a picture of what used to be on top of the granite pedestal next to the tree, or if someone knows, please tell us.. Also if anyone would like to donate to this project please contact us at obcodebolt@gmail.com (mailing address in the right column) or send donations to Iowa State Bank, P.O. Box 465, Odebolt, IA 51458.

We appreciate the support we have received from INS, Sac County Mutual Telephone, Mayor Ron Rex, and Senator Steve Kettering on this project.

Read a bit of the history of Odebolt City Park at the Odebolt History Pages.

We appreciate you!

2010-03-05T13:27:00.001-06:00

Thank you to Guy Trimble of TRIMBLE ENTERPRISES, INC., for sponsoring our web page at www.odebolt.net/obc.html

March meeting for OBC

2010-02-28T10:10:00.002-06:00

The February 9 meeting for the Odebolt Betterment Committee was cancelled due to the weather. They will hold their meeting March 9,2010 at 6:00 at City Hall. We have a lot of things to discuss. Hope to see you there.

January 2010 Highlights

2010-01-25T16:43:00.012-06:00

The OBC held a meeting January 12th. The meeting was very informal due to weather conditions.
Highlights were:
- A letter from "Trees Please" confirmed that we received a $1000 grant, which needs to be matched locally
- Triangle Park Project. The City of Odebolt paid the bill for the shelter house and donated a picnic table; Gary Roth donated labor and dirt; Evapco donated the plaque stand, Horsley Construction donated labor for the sidewalk; and Kerry and Deb donated the sidewalk plaques. We would like to thank all the volunteers that helped with this project.
- $300.00 was placed into a savings account at Iowa State Bank for upkeep on the Triangle Park area.
- We should know the results on the Sac County Endowment Grant by March 1, 2010.
- Future plans are to landscape around the church sign and FFA sign on west Hwy 175
- Discussions were held on revitalizing the Monument Circle, other grant options, and the Downtown Greenspace Project.

Excerpts from Nov. 11, 2009 Meeting Minutes

2009-11-15T21:04:00.022-06:00

Click for the full
November OBC Meeting Minutes
(.pdf form will open in another window)

(The next meeting date in the minutes are in error. The meeting will be Tues., Jan. 12, 2010)

City Park Project ... An application for an INS grant has been completed. We hope to know by the middle of January if we will receive any money from this grant. The City has pledged $300. Members will visit Peterson Mfg. to look at picnic tables and benches.

Downtown Green Space Project ... Cost for flags & flag poles, cement work, benches, picnic table, clock lights, and electrical work will total about $36,000. Grant application will be made by December 4th to the Sac County Endowment Foundation. Local funds are being raised for matching funds for the grant. OBC has also applied for a "Trees Please" grant to cover cost of trees.

We will take off the month of December because of the holidays.

Working on Grants for the Park Betterment Project

2009-11-06T09:54:00.009-06:00

Downtown Green Space Project

The 2nd and Main Street Greenspace Project is the newset OBC project. This is a mock-up of what it may look like. It is hoped it will be finished by June 2010. Click for a close-up.

Joan Godbersen and Linda Godbersen attended the Sac County Endowment grant training session on Tuesday, Oct 27th in Sac City. The foundation has approximately $96,800 in funds to disperse for vertical infrastructure throughout the county. We will begin compiling our application and budget for the project. We must raise 50% matching funds. Howard Hustedt has already been working on raising funds. Applications are due December 4th and we should hear by March if we will receive grant money. We want the project completed before Creek Days.

At the November 2nd City of Odebolt Council Meeting the Odebolt Betterment Committee requested $300.00 as matching funds for the Park Betterment Project. It was approved.

Landscaping rock and edging at City Park

2009-10-09T21:18:00.001-05:00

From October 5th City of Odebolt Council Minutes:
Kerry Reinhart, Odebolt Betterment Committee, requested approval for placing landscaping rock and edging around the trees at the Park to prevent muddy run-off. In the future, the shelter houses need updating. The Mayor thanked Reinhart for his past and future efforts on behalf of the betterment of Odebolt.

175 Triangle Park Shelterhouse is complete!

2009-09-19T08:48:00.007-05:00

Members of the Odebolt Betterment Committee have finished the shelterhouse at the Triangle Park. It has been re-shingled, repainted, & installed a handicapped accessible sidewalk, flowerbed, picnic table, and history plaque telling about the watch tower.

We hope you will stop by and check it out. If you would like to know more about our organization please feel free to attend our meetings. If interested in donating to our group please leave your donation at Iowa State Bank.

Click for our latest meeting minutes!

Entry sign landscaping completed!

2009-08-31T07:47:00.006-05:00

Our next meeting will be Tuesday, September 15, at 6 p.m. in City Hall. ALL ARE WELCOME to sit in on the meeting.

Yesterday the OBC finished up landscaping around the entry signs. They really look good! The total cost for the entry sign landscaping will be $3789.43 and the sign committee’s responsibility will be $2760.00, which can be covered from the OBC funds. Funding included a $1028.60 grant from Iowa's Living Roadways. (Photo shows the entry sign at the west edge of town.)

We have applied for a REAP grant and will hopefully get it so we can start on the Memorial Walk project (continuing the sidewalk from Memorial Walk Park east to the triangle park between 1st and 3rd streets).

The Highway 175 Triangle Park historic plaque has been ordered and hopefully will be here next week. Hemer Plumbing & Heating may be interested in having a mural painted on the north side of their building downtown. We have a lot of good ideas and we have a great group of people to work with!

OBC 175 PARK REVITALIZATION

2009-08-21T17:06:00.005-05:00

The Odebolt Betterment Committee is in the process of working on the entrances and corridors through town. One of our projects is to revitalize the triangle park located on Hwy 175. (Before photo to right)

Through our research we have discovered that in the 1950’s this was called the Rotary Park. During the Cold War it was the site for the Odebolt Ground Observers Corps Observation Tower. The GOC group was active in the early 50’s. Members of the group scanned the skies to identify low-flying aircraft, and reported to the Air Force base in Omaha. You can read about this organization and see photos at the Odebolt History Pages ... click for GROUND OBSERVERS CORPS.

We are accomplishing our plans for this area: we have painted the shelter house at the cost of $52.00, re-shingled at the cost of $465.40 and added a decorative handrail at the cost of $220.00. We also wish to add a handicapped accessible sidewalk from Sac Ave. up to the shelter house at a cost of approximately $750.00, plant a low maintenance landscape area to the south of shelter house to eliminate traffic noise at a cost of $450.00 and place a plaque telling the history of the Watch Tower near the shelter house at the cost of $1600.00. The photo shows our progress; shingled, new flower bed and picnic table.

Progress Notes

2009-04-10T07:14:00.009-05:00

April 10, 2009

Things are happening. The Reinharts and helpers are moving ahead with improvements to the roadside shelter house. Private funds are coming in, which we really appreciate. And the City is contributing $500.00. Still a long way from our goal.

Received notice of funding in the amount of $1,028.60 from the Iowa's Living Roadways grant for landscaping around the ODEBOLT signs.

The TREES PLEASE grant in the amount of $1000.00 is being used for trees along Hwy. 175 through town. Madeline has these trees ordered. Madeline, Kerry & Deb have really been working to keep things moving.

From the April 6, 2009 City Council Meeting Minutes

Kerry and Deb Reinhart were present to represent the Odebolt Betterment Committee. Two applications have been submitted for planting trees and shrubs along Hwy. 175 to enhance the corridor passing through town. Kerry also requested approval to start shingling the shelter house along Hwy. 175. The future plans for this site also include repainting the shelter house, adding a decorative handrail, handicap accessible sidewalk, low maintenance landscaping and the placement of an historical plaque telling the history of the Odebolt Ground Observers Corp. Observation Tower (photo to left). At this time financial support has been received from P. Dale Gronemeyer, Mary Jeanne Thompson, Lundell Plastics and the City of Odebolt. More financial assistance is needed in order to complete the project. The Mayor & Council commended the Reinharts for their work on these projects.

January 8, 2009

We received word that we have qualified for a $1000.00 matching grant from MidAmerican's Trees Please Program. We have other applications in the process and are hopeful for landscaping items. As the timing is not ours to choose, things might not happen until the fall of 2009 or even the spring of 2010. We are continuing to push forward.