Thursday, December 29, 2011

Ken Mason National Intercollegiate Rodeo Coach

Ken Mason named the 2011 Coach of the Year

University of Tennessee also inducted Mason into
University of Tennessee at Martin Rodeo Hall of Fame in 2011

Russell native and Missouri Valley College Rodeo Coach, Ken Mason was recognized for both of his accomplishments at the UT Martin rodeo April 16, 2011.

Martin is the son of Richard and Charlene Foland of Russell and a 1991 graduate of Russell High School.  He's the son-in-law of Doug and Colette Swarthout and Steve and Pat Sallee.

For the past six years, Ken has been the rodeo coach at the Marshall, Missouri, College of Missouri Valley College for the past six years.  He and his wife, Kari, live in Marshall with their two daughters, Sydnee and Taylor.

Mason's rodeo career started in Iowa High School rodeo where he won the state championship in bareback riding in 1991 and qualified for the National High School Finals in both bareback riding and saddle bronc riding in 1989, 1990 and 1991.

While attending college, Ken competed in bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, and team roping.  He won many championships while in college.  In 2010, Coach Mason led the men's team to their fourth consecutive Ozark Regional Championship and its first NIRA Reserve National Championship.  The Lady Vikings ended the 2010 season as Ozark Region runner-ups, and also qualified for the College National Finals Rodeo.   The men's team finished the season as Ozark Region Champions, winning by 1973.33 points to secure a spot to compete in the College National Finals Rodeo.

Holidy Lighting Winners

Pictured is the second place residential winner, Ron and Vicki Bingham of 402 S. Prairie St. in Russel.  They received $50 in Chamber gift certificates.  Pictured from left:  Chariton Community Betterment President, Mary Jo Fisher, Vicki Bingham, and Chariton Chamber Executive Director, Shantel Dow.

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Years and Years Ago

December 6, 2011

Dr. Wendell Force, a Russell native, was now associated with Dr. E.G. Danner, Chariton Optometrist.  Dr. Force is the son of Nora and Guy Force of Russell.
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December 15, 2011

50 years ago -
Russell High School inaugurated its new gymnasium.  Opponents for the opening game were Moravia, both boys and girls teams.  The gym was part of a new $165,000 school improvement program which also included classrooms and other facilities.

December 22, 2011

60 years ago -
Three Lucas County men were inducted into the Marine Corps at Des Moines.  They were James L. May of Russell, Gust H. Sutherland of Lucas and Scotty J. Hall of Lucas

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Carol Swigart wins Chariton Giveaway Drawing

Carol Swigart of Russell (at the left) was the winner of the Chariton Chamber's grand prize Holiday Giveaway drawing held on December 16.  She received $500 in Chamber gift certificates for being the grand prize winner.  Her winning ticket was from the Chariton Pamida.  Standing at the right is Chariton Chamber Business and Professional Division President, Betty Pepping.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Stork News

Isabella Marie and Gabriella Marie Sandy, twin daughters, were born to Brock and Erin Sandy, Holdrege, NE.  Isabella Marie, 5 lbs, 9 oz. and 18¼" long at 4:12pm; Gabriella Marie, 5 lbs. 11oz and 18 3/4" long at 4:13pm.  They were born on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2011 at Phelps Memorial Health Center, Holdrege, NE.  Their sister Olivia welcomed them home.  Great-grandmother is Mary Sandy of Chariton.

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Evelyn Riggs Celebrated her 90th Birthday

Evelyn Riggs celebrated her 90th birthday December 22.  Her family honored her with a card shower.  You may send cards to 103 W. Ames #6, Russell, Iowa 50238.