DiscoverAde.com Newsletter

"Helping the World Discover Adel"
DiscoverAdel.com Newsletter
Vol. 73 November 2014
Dear Friend of Adel, 

For me, living in Adel is about the great folks that live here and the wide range of passionate people we've encountered.

Case in point, we had the honor of talking with Al Laudencia of Hal n Al's Q & Catering. I had the pleasure of trying their "Q" at their inaugural debut at the Sweet Corn Festival a few years back. It was excellent and I've always wanted to do an interview. Due to logistics and scheduling it always stayed on our "to do" list. Over the years we've had folks come up and say, "You should do an interview on these guys!" This month that goal was achieved, it was well worth the wait.

Terry was "traveling" this month. I assume Terry drove because last I knew Terry was still on the no-fly list. Which is a good thing, imagine sitting next to Terry for a 4 hour flight. Did it twice, "fool me once shame on you fool me twice..." you know how it goes. So in the unique style that belongs to Terry, we have the journey as Terry saw it, maybe.

So grab a cup of coffee, there is a lot to cover this month and we look forward to seeing you in Adel.

Chris

In This Issue
Al Laudencia...- Hal n Al's Q & Catering
Heart of Iowa Fall Art Crawl - Penoach
Holiday Open House at Adel HealthMart Nov. 7
Panther Creek Church Luncheon, Craft and Bake Sale Nov. 9th
UMC Harvest Dinner & Bake Sale Nov. 16.
Adel Community Thanksgiving Soup Supper
Adel Winterset TV & Appliance Adds Furniture
Help the Adel Food Pantry Prepare for Winter
Annual Holiday Open House Nov. 14th & 15th
Operation Christmas Child Collection Week
ISU Extension and Outreach News & Events
Adel Business Holiday Open House Dec. 5th
Annual Holiday Open House Studio 10 Dec. 6th
Around Town - Upcoming Events
BAl Laudencia - Hal n Al's Q & Catering

Hal n Als Q and Catering - Adel Iowa Every interview for DiscoverAdel.com is unique and showcases the wonderful talent that Adel, Iowa has to offer.  

 

Now and again, we stumble upon a business owner who defines his or her company by a different set of rules and reaches greatness, not because it was an idealized goal, but because their priorities put quality ahead of quantity.  

 

This month we were honored to speak with Al Laudencia of Hal n Al's Q & Catering, an up and coming Adel-based barbeque business that is taking the Des Moines metro area by storm.

 

Al has worked in kitchens since he was 13 where he started as a busboy. As a kid from Ames, Al attended Iowa State University majoring in Marketing with a minor in Biology. He graduated in Saint Louis with a degree in Applied Behavioral Science and attended graduate school for Business Administration, supported by AT&T for whom he was a salesman. Regardless of his profession, Al has always had a restaurant position as well.

 

In 1998 a headhunter sought him out to manage a national chain's East St. Louis location and it was this eye opening experience that lead to his love for barbeque.

 

The cultural differences between Al and his crew were vast, but as is true across the world, food became the great equalizer. One day the grill cook asked if Al had ever had a "snoot sandwich" and promised to "hook him up." The next day, Al was handed a Styrofoam container that popped open to show a golden brown, crispy piece of pork snout on top of a slice of cheap white bread with a dollop of potatoes salad and beans. His mouth watered, and Al's love affair with barbeque was sealed. He purchased a BBQ Weber grill, created a makeshift smoker, and lived by the number one rule of "low and slow, baby."

 

The allure and necessity of the "low and slow" rule ran true with Al when he learned the cooking method developed out of necessity during the time of slavery. Brisket, ribs, and other inferior cuts of meat were discarded by the masters and given to slaves. These scrap cuts were tough and flavorless but the slaves learned that if they cooked it long enough at a very low temperature, due to the lack of refrigeration and the perpetual cooking kept the food longer, the meat would become tender. Some began adding sauces to the top to enhance the flavor, others rubbed the meat with a mixture of dry spices to infuse flavor. Today these different techniques make up the regions of Kansas City, St Louis, Texas, and Carolina style barbeque. Hal n Al's Q is a combination of Kansas City and St Louis. To keep the meat in top form, he pulls and slices the meat tableside so that it stays juicy.

 

In 2008 Al moved back to Des Moines and met his wife, Betsy Chase of Adel in 2009. The savory dishes as a result of Al's hobby were shared at family functions and loved by his in-laws. Al was incredibly excited to learn his wife was planning to buy him a small smoker for an upcoming holiday to do away with the makeshift grill, available at many retail outlets for about $l00. Around that same time, a fellow chef was planning to leave Iowa and wanted to make sure that his smoker was placed in good hands. This commercial sized smoker was on a trailer and came with a much higher price tag.

 Hal n Als Q and Catering - Adel Iowa

 

Al and Betsy realized they had about half the money for the big rig, but weren't sure where to find the rest. In a classic American family scene, a comment around the holidays was made about the smoker and lack of funds. Across the room Betsy's father Hal of DeSoto, Iowa overheard and said, "Why don't we go half and half?" Hal n Al's Barbeque was born and a whirlwind began. Betsy and Al had a baby in May, purchased their home in Adel in June, and the smoker was purchased in July.

 

 

Hal n Al's Q & Catering's first event was the Adel Sweet Corn festival, giving people a taste of their original dry-rubbed pulled pork. Their daughters, Taylor and Lily, experienced taking money and making change, as well as customer service. After that, the goal was one catering per month, ranging anywhere from individual requests for family dinners to larger requests to serve 100. During this time Al continued to wait tables at Biaggi's Italian restaurant in Des Moines full time, which any professional restaurateur can tell you is grueling work on its own, and running the family business on the side.

 

As the catering requests have grown, Al's time at the restaurant has decreased, allowing him more time for his own business. Al's method of marketing is a combination of samples and social connections.  

 

Hal n Als Q and Catering - Adel Iowa Traditionally, or perhaps stereotypically, BBQ is viewed as a man's world.  

 

For Al, he knows that 80% of the buying power is with women, and he jokes they have access to the other 20% too; hence the pink pig's tail on his logo, which also serves as a heartfelt homage to his mother who passed away due to breast cancer complications.

 

By keeping his target audience in mind, along with the values of honesty, generosity, and genuine human interest, Al is able to create an environment where customers need not worry about lifting a finger- he'll do the dishes, and if you need entertainment, Al is a DJ, piano player, and singer for his other business, Two Men and Tune, with partner Rick Ludwig who have performed at the Iowa State Fair.

 

Hal n Als Q and Catering - Adel Iowa At the initial catering appointment, Al brings along samples to try because he believes strongly that once he gets someone's mouth watering, and they then find out he charges less than the other guys, the sale is closed.  

 

What was once a goal of 12 caterings a year is now a reality of seven per week. These still include small family dinners and now include professional meetings, weddings, and graduations up to 1,000.  

 

As word spreads, Al is able to keep up, but will soon need to expand further, so the family has begun talks of a restaurant in the future.

 

Hal n Al's Q & Catering has a prestigious clientele of bankers, various industry vice presidents, city and state politicians and has been honored to be selected as the Iowa Wild hockey team's official caterer for the 2014-2015 season, preparing breakfast, dinner, and snacks for the team and administration members every home game. But it is important to note that they hope to expand their business, especially graduations, in Adel.

 

"I live in Adel- just give me an opportunity- the first samples on us. I'd like to do more with Adel because I've found home. I like to know my neighbors. I love that the people are truly interested in their community without excluding what's in their backyard (which is Des Moines.) We've found a town that can help raise our kids, not just educate them. If 'it takes a village to raise a family,' then Adel is that town. I'm entrusting my kids to the city of Adel and knowing I can trust that they will get the best. We're ranked 7 in the state- that says a lot about our community, our families, and how and what we feel about our kids. Its neat to see how supportive this town is in every way."

 

Its important to keep in mind that Hal n Al's is a catering business- happy to prepare foods of all types not just barbeque. With 35 years of restaurant experience, connections throughout the industry, and Filipino heritage, Al is able to create traditional American, French, Greek, Asian, and Italian cuisine for breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts, and snacks.

 

Hal n Als Q and Catering - Adel Iowa  

Al is an incredibly inspirational conversationalist that other business owners can learn from, which illustrates why his clients love his businesses. "I've taken my passion and God has said, 'this is where you're gonna go.' I'm just going along for the ride. And I'm not going to get in the way of myself. You're the one who tells you, you don't have time for it. There are a million places for you to get food, to get catering, but the one way to make myself stick out, its in the service and that feeling people get from the experience. "

 

"It doesn't take that much more to be number one. Water boils at 212 degrees. It does absolutely nothing at 211. Races are won by nanoseconds. But the guy who wins, wins exponentially by giving that little extra nanosecond more. It's about giving more when you feel like giving up; thinking not about yourself, but about that customer and how you can make them feel. Now, you better follow up with some good food and good service, but once you got that, the train is rolling so watch out."

 

Hal n Al's Q & Catering

1413 Lynne Dr.

Adel, Iowa 50003

Phone: 515-991-6887

Website: www.halnalsqc.com 

Email: allaudencia@hotmail.com 

BHeart of Iowa Fall Art Crawl - Penoach Nov 2
Penoach Winery - Adel Iowa Adel's Penoach Winery will host three artists as part of the Heart of Iowa Fall Art Crawl on Sunday, November 2nd from 1-5 pm.

Heiland Pottery, Sitka Photography, and Just My Type Designs.

A great time to shop for some unique gifts.

Also on Sunday, join us for an old-fashioned Windmill Raising at 1:00.

We are looking for volunteers for this hands-on project if you want to help mix concrete to set the legs, or just come to watch. Watch as Stan's summer-long project is finally put in place! We will have $2 beers for the afternoon!

Penoach Winery Penoach Winery
26759 N Avenue
Adel, Iowa 50003
Phone: (515) 993-4374
Website: www.penoach.com
Facebook: Penoach-Vineyard-Winery
Holiday Open House at Adel HealthMart Nov. 7
Adel HealthMart Holidays - Adel Iowa Adel HealthMart is having our Holiday Open House on November 7th.

We will be having free refreshments, door prizes, and a free gift with purchase to the first customers of the day which supplies last!

We have new merchandise arriving daily including holiday decor items, as well as great gift items!

Be sure to put Friday, November 7th on your calendars! Follow us on Facebook!

 
Adel HealthMart - Adel IowaHours:
Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Sunday: Closed

Adel Health Mart
Phone: 515-993-3644
Fax :515-993-4714
After hours Emergency: 515-333-2959
Email: jane@adelhealthmart.com
Website: www.adelhealthmart.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/adelhealthmart
BPanther Creek Church Luncheon, Craft and Bake Sale Nov. 9th
Panther Creek Church Adel Iowa Panther Creek Church of the Brethren Women's Fellowship is hosting a Soup Luncheon, Craft & Bake Sale on Sunday, November 9 from 11:45am - 2pm.

The menu includes: chili and cheesy potato soup, with corn bread and crackers, relishes, holiday cookies, bars, and a beverage.

A free will offering be accepted for the luncheon.

Holiday crafts and homemade baked goods and candies will be available for sale.

Panther Creek Church of The Brethren
24529 J Ave.
Adel, IA 50003
Phone: 515-993-4096
BUMC Harvest Dinner & Bake Sale Nov. 16
Harvest Dinner The community is invited to the Adel United Methodist Church Harvest Dinner & Bake Sale.

Sunday, November 16th, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm.

The menu includes: ham balls, mashed potatoes, green beans, applesauce, rolls, fall dessert, and a beverage.

Cost: Adults - $7.00; children under 10 $4.00. Carry outs are available.

The proceeds towards repairing the parsonage steps.

Adel United Methodist Church
115 South Tenth Street
Adel, Iowa 50003
Phone: (515) 993-3791
Website: www.adelumc.org
Facebook: Adel-United-Methodist-Church
BAdel Community Thanksgiving Soup Supper
Community Thanksgiving  Soup Supper - Adel Iowa Adel Community Thanksgiving Soup Supper & Worship Service at Panther Creek Church of the Brethren.

Tuesday, November 25th.

Soup Supper begins at 6:00 p.m.

Thanksgiving Worship Service begins at 7:00 p.m.

The annual Adel Community Thanksgiving Worship Service will be hosted by the Panther Creek Church of the Brethren in the fellowship hall.

The menu will include a variety of soups, crackers, breads, relish trays, pumpkin bars and pie provided by members and friends of the following Adel-area congregations: Adel United Methodist, New Hope Evangelical Free, First Christian, Saint John's Catholic, Grace Lutheran, Faith Lutheran and Panther Creek Church of the Brethren.

John Fieck, discipleship pastor of New Hope Evangelical Free Church, will offer the message. All proceeds from the soup supper and Thanksgiving worship service will help support the A.D.M. Ministerial Association Emergency Fund.

In recent years, the A.D.M. Ministerial Association Fund has been used to fill automobile gas tanks, purchase groceries, clothing, and basic household items, assist with rent, pay for medicine, and help with heating and utility bills. Through this fund the Christian community in Adel is reaching out with God's love to the "least" (Matthew 25:31-46) among us: the widow, the orphan, the stranger, the poor, the sick and the homeless.

The Panther Creek Church of the Brethren is located at 24529 J Avenue, Adel - ½ mile south of the intersection of P-58, Highway 44 and J Avenue (8 miles northwest of Adel, 8 miles west of Dallas Center, 10 miles south of Perry, 10 miles northeast of Redfield). Please call (515) 993-4096 for directions

Panther Creek Church of The Brethren
24529 J Ave.
Adel, IA 50003
Phone: 515-993-4096
BAdel Winterset TV & Appliance Adds Furniture
Adel Winterset TV and Appliance Adel Iowa Adel Winterset TV and Appliance is now carrying furniture.

We have different sizes and styles that will fit your home and design tastes.

See the full line in our 71 page Catalog.

Stop buy the store or call to discuss with Tammy and the staff.
Adel Winterset Tv and Appliance Furniture

Adel Winterset TV and Appliance
916 Main St.
Adel, Iowa 50003
Phone: (515) 993-5287
Website: www.adelwintersettv.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adtv4287?ref=br_tf
BHelp the Adel Food Pantry Prepare for Winter
Adel Food Pantry As the weather gets cooler it's a good time to help the Adel Good Samaritan Food Pantry Board prepare for winter.

In addition to canned and dry goods you can also purchase gift cards at Fareway in Adel.

Drop food off any weekday at the church in the box outside the office.

Due to the Holiday, the Food Pantry will be closed Wednesday, November 26th.

As much as they would like to provide baby food and diapers they don't have the room. If you are inclined to do so take them to the Crisis Intervention office

The Food Pantry serves the residents of the ADM School District and the town of Van Meter, Iowa.

Good Samaritan Food Pantry of Adel
United Methodist Church
115 South Tenth Street
Adel, Iowa 50003
Phone: (515) 423-0753
Website: www.adelfoodpantry.com
Annual Holiday Open House Nov. 14th & 15th
Adel Holiday Open House Hollie Forsman, LeRoy Wicks and Laura Brenner invite you to Our Holiday Open House.

Friday, Nov. 14th, 2 - 6 pm. Saturday, Nov. 15th, 9 - 4 pm. at the Raccoon Valley Bank Community House.

Featuring:
  • Rustic signs, barn quilts and furniture by Crow Corner Primitives
  • Furniture by Leroy Wicks of Raccoon River Rustics
  • Quilted and Seasonal items by Laura Brenner of 2 Long Arm Quilters
  • Pottery and quilted projects by Donna Bremer
Forsman Holiday Open House
Join us and see what we've been up to this year!

Hollie
Crow Corner Primitives
Website: www.crowcornerprimitives.com

Event Location:
Raccoon Valley Bank Community House
1016 Main St.
Adel, Iowa 50003
BOperation Christmas Child Collection Week

Operation Christmas Child Adel Iowa November 17 - 24 is National Collection Week for Operation Christmas Child!

Filling an empty shoe box with basic, simple items, such as school supplies, hygiene items (no liquids, please), small toys, and hard candy can make the difference of a lifetime for a child!

This outreach, a division of the international relief organization Samaritan's Purse, extends all around the world to millions of children living amid devastating poverty and extreme crises. (For more information, go to samaritanspurse.org).

Operation Christmas Child boxes are distributed to children who are living in destitute conditions. Many of them are orphans, having lost their parents to war or disease. Others have fled from persecution. Most of these children are so impoverished that they barely get enough food to sustain their lives. They live in unimaginable despair with no hope for reprieve.

How can we help? We can let these children know that they are loved, that their lives are worth something. We can pack a box with basic but much appreciated necessities, send it, and pray. When these children receive their gifts, they realize that they are not alone. This simple gift gives them the gift of hope, and it opens the door for the gospel to be shared with the children and their families. With your help, we can make a difference! Operation Christmas Child boxes change lives!

Please bring your gift-filled shoe box (please include $7 for shipping) to the Adel United Methodist Church (115 S. 10th & Prairie, Adel). Boxes may be dropped off November 17 - 24. Hours are: Monday - Friday (17th - 21st) from 4 - 7 PM; Sat./Sun. (23rd, 24th), 2:00 - 4:00 PM; and Monday, Nov. 24th (final day), 9 - 11 AM. (Please drive up to the ramp extending from the church to Prairie Street. It's an easy transition to transport the boxes from your vehicle into the church!).

Thank you and God bless you!

Stefanie Wilderdyke, Operation Christmas Child Coordinator
Email: stefaniewilderdyke@yahoo.com; 515-993-1003

Ideas & Guidelines for Operation Christmas Child Items

A Personal Note
You may enclose a note to the child and a photo of yourself or your family. (If you include your email address, the child may write back).

School Supplies
Pens, pencils and sharpeners, crayons or markers, stamp and ink pad sets, writing pads or paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.

Toys
Small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yo's, jump ropes, small Etch A Sketch,® toys that light up or make noise (with extra batteries), Slinky,® etc.

Hygiene Items
Toothbrush, toothpaste, mild bar soap (put in Ziploc baggie), comb, washcloth, etc.

Other
T-shirts, socks, ball caps, wrapped/packaged candy, sunglasses, hair clips, toy jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries)

Do Not Include
Used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives or military figures; chocolate or food; out- of-date candy; items with violent themes (skulls, Pokémon, ghosts, etc.); liquids or lotions (this includes: hand-sanitizer, mouthwash, shampoo, bubbles, liquid lip gloss, nail polish, and water-filled bouncy balls); medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snow-globes or glass containers; aerosol cans.

How to Fill a Shoe Box for Operation Christmas Child

1. Use an empty shoebox (standard size, please) or a similarly-sized plastic container. You can wrap the box (lid separately), but wrapping is not required. Most importantly, pray for the child who will receive your gift.

2. Determine whether your gift will be for a boy or a girl, and the child's age category: 2-4, 5-9, or 10-14. Print out the appropriate boy/girl label from Samaritanspurse.org/occ or cut out label from your brochure. Mark the correct age category on the label, and tape the label to the top of your box.

3. Fill the box with a variety of gifts that will bring delight to a child. Use the gift ideas provided on the bottom of this page. Please include at least one item a child can immediately embrace such as a stuffed toy, doll, ball or toy truck.

4. Please donate $7 or more for each shoebox you prepare to help cover shipping and other project costs. You can give online by using our "Follow Your Box Donation" option at Samaritanspurse.org/occ or you can write a check to Samaritan's Purse (note "OCC" on memo line) and place it in an envelope on top of the gift items inside your box. If you or your group are preparing more than one shoebox, you may make one combined donation.

Operation Christmas Child - Adel UMC Adel Iowa 5. Place a rubber band around each closed shoebox and drop it off at the collection center at the Adel United Methodist Church at 115 South 10th & Prairie, November 17-24, 2014.

Questions? Please call Stefanie Wilderdyke, Operation Christmas Child Coordinator (515) 993-1003 or email stefaniewilderdyke@yahoo.com 

 

Adel United Methodist Church
115 South Tenth Street
Adel, Iowa 50003
Phone: (515) 993-3791
Website: www.adelumc.org
BISU Extension and Outreach News & Events
Iowa State University Extenion ¡Adelante! A Conference on Latino Civic Engagement Nov. 13

On November 13 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Iowa State University Extension and Outreach-Community and Economic Development will be sponsoring ¡Adelante! A Conference on Latino Civic Engagement.

This conference will bring together municipal officers, civic leaders and community advocates throughout Iowa to learn about successful capacity-building projects for members of the Latino community.

Participants will share stories of successes and challenges with the goal of sparking further conversations within home communities. This meeting will touch upon three interrelated themes: advocacy, engagement and leadership... Continue reading

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ARC PLC decisions Informational Meeting Nov. 17th

ISUExt 2014 Farm Bill Iowa State University Extension and Outreach of Dallas County will be hosting a free, public "Finalizing ARC PLC Decisions" meeting at ADM High School on November 17.

The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. and last approximately two and a-half hours.

This meeting is designed to help farmers, landowners and other agri-business professionals with issues related to the pending update, election and enrollment decisions for the new five-year farm program.

In addition, participants will learn more about ARC PLC regulations, procedures and FSA forms.

The meetings will feature the ARC PLC online calculators to help with decision-making and estimating potential annual ARC PLC payments for 2014 through 2018. The USDA FSA county office staff will be presenting along with Steve Johnson, ISU Extension Farm Management Specialist.

Register by Nov. 13 by contacting Aleta Cochran at (515) 993-4281 or aleta@iastate.edu.
~~~~
Fumigation Continuing Instructional Course Nov. 18th

ISU Pest Management Course Dallas County Extension will host a Fumigation Continuing Instructional Course for commercial pesticide applicators on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2014.

The program will be shown at locations across Iowa through the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Pest Management and the Environment Program.

The local site for the Nov. 18 CIC is the Dallas County Extension office. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. followed by sessions from 9 to 11 a.m.

The registration fee is $35 on or before Nov. 11 and $45 after Nov. 11. To register or to obtain additional information about the CIC, contact Anne Feltner by calling (515) 993-4281.

The 2014 course will provide continuing instructional credit for commercial pesticide applicators certified in categories 7C (Fumigation) and 10 (Demonstration and Research). The course will cover topics including effects of pesticides on groundwater and other non-target sites; pests, pest management, and pesticides; specific factors that may lead to a hazardous condition, including continuous exposure in various situations involving human exposure; and pesticide stewardship.

Additional information and registration forms for this and other courses offered through the PME Program can be accessed at www.extension.iastate.edu/PME.

    ~~~~  

Commercial Ag Weed Course Nov. 12th

ISU Extension Farming
Dallas County Extension will offer the Commercial Ag Weed, Insect and Plant Disease Management Continuing Instructional Course for commercial pesticide applicators Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2014.

The program will be shown at locations across Iowa through the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Pest Management and the Environment program.

The local attendance site is the Dallas County Extension office located on the fairgrounds. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., and the course runs from 9 to 11:30 a.m.

The registration fee is $35 on or before Nov. 5 and $45 after Nov. 5. To register or to obtain additional information about the CIC, contact Anne Feltner calling (515) 993-4281.

The course will provide continuing instructional credit for commercial pesticide applicators certified in categories 1A, 1B, 1C and 10. Some of the topics to be covered include water quality protection; pests, pest management and pesticides; phytotoxicity; and pesticide stewardship.

Certified Crop Advisor Continuing Education Units in soil and water management and pest management will be offered at this program. Any interested participant should bring his or her CCA number.

Additional information and registration forms for this and other courses offered by the PME program can be accessed at www.extension.iastate.edu/PME/ComAp.html.

 

Dallas County ISU Extension Office
28059 Fairground Road
Adel, Iowa 50003
Phone: (515) 993-4281
Fax: (515) 993-1027
Website: www.extension.iastate.edu/dallas
Facebook: www.facebook.com/isuextensiondallascounty
BAdel Business Holiday Open House Dec. 5th
Adel Partners Chamber of Commerce Holiday Open House Adel Partners will be hosting the 20th Annual Adel Business Holiday Open House on Friday, December 5th.

This year's theme is "Light Up the Holidays." The Open House runs from 5:00-7:00 pm with recipe cards and samples at Chamber businesses, civic organizations, and churches.

Luminaries will be displayed throughout the community to light the way to participating businesses and will replace the parade.

Storefronts throughout Adel will be decorated for the holidays as part of the 10th Annual Storefront Decorating Contest. Bring your spare change and use your coins to vote for your favorite storefront display in the new "People's Choice" category. All money collected will be donated to the Good Samaritan Food Pantry.

The Adel Public Library will be hosting a variety of children's activities during the Open House, including face painting with Mrs. Claus and balloons with Santa's elf.

Santa Claus will be at HomeCare Services during the event-bring your camera and one of our volunteers will take your picture free of charge. Stop by City Hall for the unveiling of a new City logo that acknowledges our community's history while also representing Adel's bright future.

We hope that you will join us to enjoy holiday treat samples at each participating business and collect the recipe cards. Watch for a list and map of participants in Dallas County News the week before the event.

Maps will also be available at participating businesses and the Adel Public Library. You won't want to miss this great annual kick off to the holiday season in Adel.

If Adel Partners Chamber of Commerceyou are interested in participating or volunteering, please contact the Chamber at 993-5472 or chamber@AdelPartners.org.

  Adel Partners Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 73, 301 S.
10th Street, 2nd Floor
Adel, IA 50003
Email: chamber@AdelPartners.Org
Website: www.adelpartners.org
Facebook: AdelPartnersChamberOfCommerce
Annual Holiday Open House Studio 10 Dec. 6th
Studio 10 Holiday Open House - Adel Iowa Studio 10 in Adel, will be having our annual Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 6th from 3:30-5:30 p.m.

We will be offering great discounts on products, gift certificates, and services.

Door prizes will be drawn for those who attend the event, and Pure Privilege participants will receive double points on purchases that weekend.

Pre-orders will begin for Pure Privilege Double Points weekend in November.

Marc Stephens and Friends Adel Iowa Please follow us on Facebook for more details as we get closer to the event www.facebook.com/AdelStudio10.

Studio 10
907 Main St.
Adel, Iowa 50003
Phone: (515) 993-3300
Website: www.facebook.com/AdelStudio10
Around Town
Halloween 2014 Halloween Party at Captain's Quarters Nov. 1st!

Captain's Quarters in Adel, is going to have a Halloween Costume Party on November 1st at 8:00 pm! Live music will be provided by...   Continue reading
Captains Quarters and CQ Brewing - Adel Iowa HOP Day at Captain's Quarters Nov. 2nd

HOP Day is finally here! Sunday, November 2nd. We will be hopping forward an hour to start us out on HOP day! We will have a lot of ...  Continue reading
Veterans Fair 2014 Veterans Fair and Open House Nov. 1st

Veterans Benefits & Fair Open House Saturday, November 1st, 2014. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Van Meter Veterans Reception Center....  Continue reading
First Christian Church Free Will Donation Garage and Bake Sale Nov. 1st

The FCC Youth are holding a Free Will Donation garage and bake sale. There are many interesting items donated and of course...  Continue reading
Free Kids Closet - Adel, Iowa Free Kids Clothes Closet

Stop by the Kids Clothes Closet in Adel on the first and third Saturday of each month from 9-11:00 a.m. Find clothes for infants to...  Continue reading
Fusion Youth Misitry 2 New Youth Ministries at Fusion Church

Fusion Church in Adel, is introducing 2 new Youth Ministries.
Kids Connection - Connecting Kids to Christ is for grades 1 -5.
Spark Youth Ministry is for...  Continue reading
ADM Schools 2014 ADM Sports Schedule Posted

The Adel DeSoto Minburn (ADM) School's 2014 Sports Schedule of Events has been posted at Adel DeSoto Minburn CSD...   Continue reading 
River Valley Golf Course River Valley Golf Course Chilli Opens Nov. 2nd

It's time for the River Valley Golf Course Chilli Opens. Each Sunday a different format with a homemade chili dinner afterwards....   Continue reading 
Adel Quilting & Dry Gods Co. Adel Iowa Open Sew Friday at the Adel Public Library

Join Jacque Johnson, owner of Adel Quilting & Dry Goods Co., the 2nd Friday of each month at the Adel Public Library for Open Sew Friday! Participants may join...    Continue reading

Ikes Avengers - Adel Iowa Ike's Avengers on Facebook

"In an attempt to raise awareness of childhood lung disease and the challenges each family faces, I have created this page for Ike's Avengers"...   Continue reading 

Wednesday Night Suppers Adel UMC Wednesday Night Community Suppers

The Adel United Methodist Church welcomes everyone in the community to enjoy a meal and Christian fellowship each Wednesday from ... Continue reading
Check out the full list of events on the 
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Courtesy of Your Adel Public Library:
 

There are so many things to love about November:  

 

the falling leaves, snuggling up with a good book and hot drink, family-get-togethers and fun Thanksgiving crafts.  

 

There are however a few other things to get excited about this month, and they are all happening at the Adel Public Library!

~~~~

Are you a fan of the popular television drama, Downton Abby?  

 

We welcome adults to our very new and exciting event, Downton High Tea Party.

 

There is no cost for participants; food and drinks will be provided.  

 

Pre-registration is required, as there is a limit of 18 for this event.  

 

You may dress in your most elegant and respectable tea party attire (yes, large hats and gloves are welcome!).  

 

To register, please call Paula at 515-993-3512 or email her at paula@adelpl.org.  

~~~~

The Friends of the Adel Public Library Foundation will be holding a silent auction at the library, beginning Monday, November 24th at 10:00 am and going through Friday, December 12th at 5:00 pm.

~~~~

Dallas County Conservation will be putting on a very special Story Time

titled, Let's Talk Turkey,on Monday, November 10th at 10:30 am.  

 

 

As always, our Preschool Story Time is on Mondays, Toddler Time is on Tuesdays, and Music Time is on Thursdays.  

 

All programs begin at 10:30 am.

~~~~  

We will be showing Mr. Peabody & Sherman on Wednesday, November 5th for our Early Out Movie.  

 

The movie begins at 2:00 pm. We will provide popcorn!  

 

We will also hold an Early Out Craft on Wednesday, November 19th at 2:00 pm.  

~~~~

Classic Movie Monday is Monday, November 17th at 2:00 pm.

~~~~

Book Clubs 

 

Our Brown Bag Book Club

will continue to meet this month and discuss Will Schwalbe's book, "The End of Your Life Book Club." 

 

It will take place on Thursday, November 13th at 12:00 pm.   

 

Our Evening Book Club will resume in December due to the holidays.

~~~~  

 

We will have a couple closures due to holidays

this month.  

 

We will be closed in observance of Veteran's Day on Tuesday, November 11th.  

 

We will also be closed for Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 27th and Friday, November 28th.

~~~~

November at the Adel Public Library is packed full of fun and we are excited for each and every day of it!   

~~~~  

To keep up-to-date on all of the clubs, events, information and programs at Adel Public Library, be sure to check out our website,  www.adelpl.org,

and "Like" us on "Facebook

 

Library Hours:
Mon and Fri 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Tues - Thurs 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

~ Brittany

Adel Public Library
303 S. 10th St.
Adel, Iowa 50003
Adel Public Library
Recipe of the Month
DDiscover Chef
Real Coffee

If you know our family, you know coffee is important. Water, sleep, these things have little importance in our lives, but a nice, hot cup of Joe can't be beat.

I knew Lori was the one when her great Grandfather, Stoney, poured me a mug of sludge so thick you could stand a spoon in it. He actually watered it down before handing it to me.

And Lori thought I was a keeper because I didn't ask for cream or sugar.

My mother fell in love with my Father's family because my future grandfather used a French press to make coffee.

Both sides own at least one 40 cup coffee pot that requires at least two refills during any given holiday.

Coffee scoops are proudly handed down generation to generation.

And those who make weak coffee are kindly discouraged not to make the coffee.

Weak coffee is defined as see through, brown, or the blasphemous decaf. Don't get me started on those crazy one cup pods, the equivalence of one piece of chocolate at Halloween.

As we get ready for Thanksgiving, and the clans gather for a good mug of sludge, and I suppose turkey, I offer the requirements for the perfect pot of coffee.
 
Really Good Coffee

 

Directions:

1. Following the manufactures instructions fill the pot with water- no single cups allowed.

2. Grind your own beans for a fresh, aromatic flavor. I highly recommend "Highlanders Grog", found at our local Fareway.  

 

3. You'll need just shy of 1/2 cup once ground for a 12 cup pot.

 

To makes very strong coffee consider using Espresso beans and a an old fashioned epresso maker, but that's another article.  

Don't overload the filter, too much coffee and the water can't move freely, causing overflow and you'll get grounds in your cup.

Note: The perfect coffee cup hasn't been washed in at least 2 weeks.  

 

Simply rinse it out. Rough as it may look, this rich brown patina is equivalent to a seasoned pan or wok. The hot coffee will "sanitize" it and the flavors are definitely enhanced.

 

Of course for appearance sake, we keep clean cups for visitors and friends.  

 

Just make sure you know which cup is yours!

For best results, share with friends. And try not to scoff if they ask for milk or sugar..

 

Enjoy!
Terry Traveller - Reflects on Traveling
Terry Traveller

Recently, I went on a short trip to the East Coast as part of the Annual Convention of Silly People.

I suppose I should preface, this is an exclusive club with many secret handshakes and party dues.

For your security and mine, do not ask about the Order of Grand Poohbahs.

If you like cement shoes, look for those with ketchup stains on their lapel and quietly ask, "are you left footed on Tuesdays?"

I cannot tell you the appropriate response, for that breaks the code, but I can tell you it includes a startled look and mumbling about foolishness.

You have been warned.

On my trip I saw the much talked about fall colors of New England, the grand construction of early Colonialism, the inside of a sailboat, and brick sidewalks that were once trampled by George Washington and Paul Revere.  

With all the history and powdered wigs, I found myself missing Iowa.

The trees back East were no more spectacular than ours, the construction of very square buildings with poor plumbing was nothing to write home about (aside from this lengthy letter home), the sailboat was pretty boring compared to all the levers in a thresher, and the brick sidewalks made me think,

"Ha! We have brick streets. Cheapskates."

Maybe it was the hours in conference rooms discussing how to master the art of Silly Walks and casually odd conversation (I was the main speaker), or the dinner requirements of breaking a boiled red crusteans's back while it looked at me with those beady black eyes.

Whatever the reason, I found myself missing good bacon, smiling faces, and the sultry sounds the nonexistent Iowa accent.

Once I was back amongst the corn fields, driving along Highway 6, I saw the brick sign illuminated with Adel's motto, Growing with Pride, and knew I was home.  

So for all of you who have no desire to leave Iowa, and who consider Hawaii an International vacation, I say here here! Because nothing beats Adel, Iowa.

Happy travels!

Terry T.

Terry Traveller
Email: terry@discoveradel.com
Veteran's Day Event Nov. 11
Veterans Day

Courtesy of ADM Alumni Assn:

On Tuesday, November 11, 2014 Colonel (Ret.) Ted Severn will be guest speaker at a Veteran's Day event open to the public at no charge with seating limited to 120.

The event will be held at the ADM High School, 801 Nile Kinnick Dr. S., in Adel.

It will start at 8:30 am with a flag-raising ceremony followed by Col. Severn's presentation from 9am - 10am in the high school auditorium, and a reception will follow at 10am in the ADM school board room.

Public parking will be available in the east parking lot - follow the signs - as you enter the ADM campus from the west off of Highway 169.

In 1970 then Captain Severn was commander of Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division in Vietnam.

He was Private John McClurg's commanding officer. Private McClurg (Adel High School Class of '69) was the last ADM alumnus to be killed in action (KIA).

Captain Severn was wounded in action (WIA) in June of 1970 and Private McClurg was KIA two months later on August 17, 1970. John was 19 years, 3 months and 17 days old.

Col. Severn will discuss his military career and experiences in Vietnam and what it was like to serve with a rifle company in a combat zone.

The ADM Alumni Association worked with the ADM Middle School Veteran's Day Committee to arrange for and sponsor Col. Severn's visit.

ADM Alumni Association
P.O. Box 122
Adel, Iowa 50003
Open Letters on the November 4th Dallas County Propositions
Vote

As the November 4th Elections approach, we've received two letters from Adel City Council members on their positions concerning ballot Proposition A and Proposition B.

Additional information concerning the proposed Dallas County Sheriff's Office - Law Enforcement Center and the proposed Dallas County Admin Facilities located here.

Read the full letters here.

- Editor
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