In 2001 the Danbury Public School held its last classes, the fifth and sixth graders from MVAO Public School. The fifth graders were then sent to Mapleton as part of the elementary school, and the sixth graders were sent to Anthon as part of the middle school, as the junior high was renamed. The building in Danbury was doomed to be demolished.
    In February of 2002, the building received a reprieve as the city of Danbury purchased the building for a dollar from the school district. The school district removed all asbestos and did other repairs so that the building was usable. The community club took over management of the building, turning the lower portion into a recreation center. This worked well with the gym as a focal point. Classrooms were rehabbed into a weight room, and the cafeteria became a game room. An open house for the new rec center was held on February 21, 2003.
    A little over 23 years later, the rec board held another open house in this building. In 2025 they began a major overhaul to the facilities with the help of a MRHD grant and some generous donations from individuals, families, and businesses. Visitors were able to tour the recently renovated facility and see firsthand the many improvements that have transformed the building into a more versatile sports and recreation space for the community.
    "The updates to the Rec Center will be a game changer for Danbury and the surrounding communities," stated MVAOCOU Baseball Head Coach Zak Scott, one of those who provided input into assets which could potentially help the baseball team, especially early in the season when the weather is not friendly for practices. "We're very fortunate to have a facility like this in our area."
    Daily, members log in to get time on the exercise machines or time in the batting cages. Little league members visit on Sunday afternoons for a form of spring training. A couple times a week the rec center is overrun by elementary students enjoying the chance to get rid some of their bottled up energy during the after school program.
    Among those who paid a visit to the rec center on Saturday were Missouri Riverboat Historical Development members David Gleiser and Kevin Clausen. The two along with other guests were given tours of the improved facilities and were also able to see the batting and pitching cages in action.
    "Having a recreation center is a major quality-of-life asset for any community, no matter its size, stated MRHD Executive Director David Gleiser. "This project did a great job of repurposing an older building into a space that youth and residents in this area will enjoy for years to come. Congratulations to the Danbury Community Club for taking the lead and completing this amazing project!"
    During the open house, professional instructors Bobby Post and Matt Passerelle were offering pitching and hitting lessons for youth ball players. Post, the Sioux City Explorers pitching coach who has been involved in professional baseball for more than 30 years, worked with pitchers during the morning sessions. Passerelle, a former associate scout for the Kansas City Royals and Baltimore Orioles and a longtime minor league coach and manager, provided hitting instruction. With more than 25 years of training experience, Passerelle has also coached extensively in independent baseball, including time with the Sioux City Explorers and as manager of the Chicago Dogs. The lessons, organized with the help of the Danbury Little League, provided young athletes with a unique opportunity to work with experienced professional coaches without having to travel out of town. The positive response from players and families highlighted the value of the new batting facilities and the opportunities they can bring to the community.
    The Danbury Rec Center Board, consisting of Joann Treiber, Linda Colbert, and Dale Drees, expressed appreciation for the many donors, volunteers, and organizations who helped make the renovation possible. Their support has helped transform the facility into an important recreational resource for the community and surrounding rural areas. While the recent renovations mark a major milestone, the Rec Center Board notes that the work is not finished. Additional improvements and new programs are already being explored as the board continues its efforts to make the Danbury Rec Center an even better place for youth, families, and residents of all ages.

    Members of the MVAOCOU Dance Team spent Friday afternoon teaching 52 elementary students dance routines at their annual dance clinic. Those routines were then presented to family and friends at the annual dance show held that evening. Along with the dances from the clinic, the dance team also presented their state routines which both received excellent 1 ratings. Rylan LeFebvre also wowed the crowd with her solo performance. The evening ended with the annual light show.
    To the left, Kami Schrunk holds onto Marley Scott as she flips during the novelty routine to Ninja Turtle Takedown.
    More pictures from the evening can be found inside this Review and will eventually be posted online at www.danbury-ia.com.

    St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Anthon will be holding a soup supper on Saturday from 6:00 until 7:00 p.m. Chili and chicken noodle soup along with cinnamon rolls will be served for a free will donation. Delivery will also be available for Anthon residents.
    Please consider supporting the parishioners.

    The Easter Bunny's Danbury assistant is in need of some Kraft shipping paper to make a cool waterfall for the Easter Eggstropiganza. If you have any you can spare, please contact Lynn at 840-0327 or drop it off at 209 Thomas Street in Danbury. The assistant needs it by April 2nd. Thanks.