Sunday was a beautiful evening to gather at the MVAOCOU football field for the kick off of HoCo 2024. The annual BBQ brought Ram families together for supper and games. Following the meal, the Homecoming court was presented. With the ladies dressed in formal dresses and the men in suits they were introduced by class. Finally, the royalty to reign over HoCo '24 were announced. Brylei Clausen, daughter of Jaclynn and Kevin Clausen of Anthon was crowned as the Homecoming queen. Luther Cameron, son of Lucy and Adam Cameron of Danbury was crowned the king.
    Homecoming continues Wednesday night with the parade, pep rally, and powder puff football. On Friday, the Ram Rally will be held at 1:00 at the high school. The MVAO Foundation tailgate party will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 at the football field. The football game against Manson NW Webster will be at 7:00. A high school tailgate will be held in the high school parking lot after the game.
    Full Homecoming footage will be printed next week.
    Photo by The Mapleton Press. Thanks, Jenna Comes!

    The MVAO School Foundation has helped teachers enhance their job through grants over the last year. In order to raise money for these grants, the foundation will be holding their annual tailgate party before the Homecoming game this Friday. Staley's chicken will be served from 5:00 until 7:00 at the football field. There will be plenty of games also available to play before the Homecoming football game's kick off. Cornhole, giant Jenga, football toss, bounce houses, and mini golf will be available to enjoy.
    Tickets for the meal are $12 and can be purchased at any bank in Danbury, Mapleton, or Anthon or at the party.
    Please consider supporting the Foundation at this party.

    DES MOINES, Iowa – Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and Iowa Farm Bureau Federation President Brent Johnson honored 439 Iowa farm families with Century or Heritage Farm designations at the 2024 Iowa State Fair. The program celebrates farms that have been owned by the same families for 100 and 150 years, respectively.
    This year, 277 Century Farms and 162 Heritage Farms were recognized during ceremonies in the historic livestock pavilion on the Iowa State Fairgrounds. To date, more than 21,000 Century Farms and 2,000 Heritage Farms have been recognized throughout Iowa. The Century Farm program began in 1976 as part of the Nation's Bicentennial Celebration. The Heritage Farm program began in 2006.
    Included on the Heritage Farm list is a farm located at Poplar Ave and 105th St. in rural Mapleton, owned by Dennis and Trude Ortner.
    Included on the Century Farm list is a farm located at 4605 290th St. in rural Danbury, owned by Neal Seuntjens.
    "The families that own and steward Century and Heritage Farms play a crucial role in maintaining Iowa's rural tradition, contributing to our state's identity, and sustaining our agricultural economy. Year after year and decade after decade, through hard-won successes and by overcoming obstacles, these innovative families embody remarkable strength, resilience, and grit," said Secretary Naig. "The opportunity to celebrate each family's legacy, hear their inspiring stories and personally congratulate each family makes this unique event my favorite of the entire year."
    The recognition is made possible through a partnership between the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation.
    "Being recognized as an Iowa Century or Heritage Farm is a testament to the work ethic and perseverance required to reach that milestone," said Brent Johnson, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation President. "It's a privilege to honor these hardworking farm families and celebrate their family farm legacies and the positive impact made on our state."