Features

MS, HS Jazz Bands take high honors at NEIBA

Published by admin on Wed, 03/12/2025 - 9:04am

     On March 8, the Monticello Middle School and High School Jazz Bands participated in the NEIBA (Northeast Iowa Bandmasters Association) District Jazz Festival.

   The Middle School Band earned a “Superior” rating. Eighth-grader Mary Grace Lyons was named as an honorable mention for Outstanding Soloist.

   The High School Band received second place, earning a place at the Iowa Jazz Championships on April 8. Sophomore Alan Arriaga-Rangel also earned an Outstanding Soloist award in Class 2A.

Staying mission focused in an uncertain environment

Published by admin on Wed, 03/12/2025 - 9:03am

   For many people and organizations, there is a lot of current concern about the funding climate at the federal level. There are a lot of partnerships and agreements with the federal government for construction, business, non-profits, schools, and more, so they can focus on things our local communities need to stay prosperous and vibrant. With the current freeze on funding and the dissolution of certain positions and programs, it can be hard to know if our community organizations will still be able to work in the coming days, months, and years.

Library offers Spring Break activities

Published by admin on Wed, 03/12/2025 - 9:03am

     The Monticello Public Library has lots of activities and events planned for Spring Break, March 17 through 21.

Monday, March 17

   • St. Patrick’s Day activities

   • I Spy Something Green Challenge

   • St. Patrick’s Day crafts

Tuesday, March 18

   • Game Day – Gather at the library with friends or family to play a card game or board game

Harms family honored by School Foundation

Published by admin on Thu, 03/06/2025 - 2:19pm

     The honorees at the 20th Annual Tailgate Party & Alumni Reunion, held on March 1, were the Harms family: Ruth, John and Kathy, and Katie.

   These three generations of a family with over 150 years of history in Monticello have contributed so much to the community over the years, not to mention the Monticello Community School District (MCSD), the students, and the Monticello School District Foundation.

School Foundation raises $32,500 for the MCSD

Published by admin on Thu, 03/06/2025 - 2:18pm

     The Monticello School District Foundation welcomed several Monticello High School alumni to their 20th Annual Tailgate Party & Alumni Reunion on March 1.

   This year’s theme was “Making it Happen…Overdrive in 2025.”

   “We want to thank our generous donors,” expressed School Foundation past-president Annette Smith. “We all know why we’re here tonight. We need your help to ensure we can continue to drive our students to their peak performance. So for 2025, we’re kicking it in overdrive!”

Lambert’s grandsons continue to show off ’31 Ford Model A

Published by admin on Thu, 03/06/2025 - 2:15pm

     Cousins Blaine Brighton and Carson Cox, both 19, of Monticello, are carrying on a family tradition.

   Last March, their grandfather, Michael (Mike) Lambert, Sr., passed away. His obituary noted the fact that he “loved cruising in his 1931 Ford Model A Pickup and showing it off at car shows.” Lambert also cherished moments spent with his family…

Kelchen’s Kafe expands to offer lunch

Published by admin on Thu, 03/06/2025 - 2:12pm

     Kelchen's Kafe opened in late 2023, specializing in home-cooked breakfast, fresh breakfast pastries, and coffees.

   Owners Shelly Kelchen and her daughter, Nicole Reyner, bring years of restaurant service to their own business.

   At first, they were open six days a week till 11 a.m. After Father's Day in June 2024, they extended their operations to seven days a week.

   "Our customers were asking for it," Reyner said.

Starlighters announces cast for ‘August: Osage County’

Published by admin on Thu, 03/06/2025 - 2:09pm

     Starlighters II Community Theatre has announced the cast for their first production of their 51st season.

   “August: Osage County” is a gripping, dark comedy and drama that delves into the chaos of family dysfunction. When the Weston family reunites at their Oklahoma home following the mysterious disappearance of their patriarch, secrets are exposed, tensions flare, and buried resentments boil over. At the center of the storm is Violet Weston, the sharp-tongued, pill-popping matriarch who spares no one from her scathing wrath.

Model Car Contest winners announced

Published by admin on Thu, 03/06/2025 - 2:06pm

   The 40th Annual Model Car Contest (featured at the KCRG-TV9-presented 56th Annual O’Reilly Auto Parts Rod & Custom Car Show) took place, Feb. 22-23 at the Monticello Berndes Center.

   Contest winners received a trophy and model kit awards.

   Results are as follows:

Car Class

Anamosa P.E.O. chapter invites all to Spring Tea event

Published by admin on Thu, 03/06/2025 - 1:59pm

     The Anamosa P.E.O. Chapter will hold its 12th annual Spring Tea on Saturday, April 12, at Fawn Creek Country Club, Anamosa. The tea will begin at 1:30 p.m.

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