Q: How many memberships are sold at the LPA golf courses?
A: According to data reported at the general manager coffee on June 26 from Royce Shaffer, Lake Panorama National director of operations, a total of 116 season passes were purchased for the Panorama West golf course and 229 passes so far this year at the Lake Panorama National golf course. Combined, the total number of golf memberships is 345, which would translate to about one in five LPA members, although not all golf memberships are from LPA members.
Q: What is the population density of Guthrie County as compared to Polk County?
A: The number of people residing in Guthrie County (population 10,623), on average, per square mile, is 18. The number of people residing in Polk County (population 492,401), on average, per square mile, is 858. For comparative purposes, the population density of Iowa from the 2020 Census is 57.12 people per square mile, based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau.
Q: How does someone go about becoming the Guthrie County Fair Queen?
A: The following information is from the fair’s website www.guthriecountyfair.com.
Unfortunately, if you are interested in applying, you are too late for this year, as the deadline to request an application was July 5. But, for future years, keep this in mind: Applicants are encouraged to be involved in a community organization, such as 4-H, FFA, girl scouts, church group, etc. Applicants are not limited to 4-H and FFA membership. The young lady chosen will not only represent Guthrie County at the Iowa State Fair Queen competition but will also be awarded a $300 scholarship from the Guthrie County Fair Board at the conclusion of her reign. The competition is open to young ladies between the ages of 16 and not older than 21 years of age on Aug. 13, the first day of the 2026 Iowa State Fair. The candidate must reside within Guthrie County (or an adjoining county if the majority of her activities are within Guthrie County). Contestants must never have been married or have had children. Complete rules and the application request form can be completed at www.guthriecountyfair.com.
Q: Can I still nominate someone for the Citizen of the Year? If so, how do I do it?
A: That answer depends on when you are reading this. Nominations must be received by Friday, July 11, 2025. You can mail nomination letters to the Panora Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 73, Panora, IA 50216. The Panora Chamber of Commerce has recognized an outstanding member of the Panora/Lake Panorama community since 1989. The year 2020 was the only year the recognition did not take place. The criteria for Citizen of the Year are as follows:
- Any service performed for the betterment of Panora that the nominator deems worthy.
- No restrictions on the number of years a person can be nominated.
- Winners cannot be considered again for 10 years.
- Nominees must be a citizen of Panora or Lake Panorama.
- Nominees must be nominated in writing, signed by the nominator.
Paid city employees are eligible, but their nomination must not be for their regular duties. Anyone who works for the promotion and betterment of our community rather than excellence in profession or job. The 2025 Citizen of the Year will be announced during Panorama Days, Saturday, Aug. 2 after the parade in the gazebo.