April is National Donate Life Month across the nation and in the state of Iowa. It is an opportunity to bring awareness to life saving organ and tissue donation.
Websites mentioned in this program:
registerme.org
https://www.iowadonornetwork.org/
The Oakland Mills Nature Center will open for the season on Saturday, April 18th! The Nature Center is located in Oakland Mills Park, Top-of-Hill Area 2591 Nature Center Drive, Mt. Pleasant. Hours: Saturdays 9:00 a.m.- noon from mid-April through mid-October. Contact the Conservation Department Offices at (319) 986-5067 to schedule other appointments.
Learn about the Skunk River Valley and the variety of plants and animals in this area. Discover how each species of wildlife interacts with its habitat and test your knowledge of nature by experiencing the exhibits.
The Henry County Conservation Department has announced its first annual Art Contest! Paintings, drawings, and 3D art that depict the animals who call the park out at Oakland Mills, home. There are three classes for contestants to register: 10yrs and under, 11yrs-18yrs, and adult. Submissions must be turned into the Henry County Conservation Department Office by Monday, May 4, 2026, by 5:00pm. Judging will take place on Wednesday, May 6 at the HCCD board meeting. The meeting is open to the public (contestants do not need to be present to win). Winners will be announced to the public on Thursday, May 7, 2026. Three lucky winners will have their art printed on Oakland Mills Merchandise and will receive a prize. Call 319-931-0336 with questions or email: apacha@henrycountyconservation.com.
Full details can be found HERE.
The City of Danville City Council will meet in regular session on Monday, April 6 at 5:3pm. The meeting will take place in Danville City Hall, 105 W. Shepherd Street. Items on the agenda include department reports, final review of the City of Danville 2045 comprehensive plan with a public hearing scheduled for April 20, 2026, among other items. This meeting is open to the public.
It is with both sadness and gratitude for a life well-lived devoted to service and ministry that we announce the passing of Gary L. Reynolds. Born on Friday, October 6, 1944, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Gary passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at the age of 81 in Chicago. A resident of Schaumburg since 1991, Gary touched countless lives with his unwavering faith and passion for service.
Gary’s life was characterized by a steadfast commitment to his beliefs and community. He earned a MBA from North Park University and a Master of Divinity from Bethel Seminary. His education laid the foundation for his enduring dedication to his work with Converge, formally known as the Baptist General Conference, where he was a beacon of faith and support.
As an educator and church planter, Gary spent time in Brazil and in Mexico spreading the message of hope and love. His devotion to God’s creation was evident in his love for people, the outdoors, and especially being near to or on the water — a pastime that brought him great joy and peace.
Gary’s legacy is carried on by beloved wife of 58 years, Doris (nee Dumse), his cherished daughters, Cristiana (Brian) McDowell and Diana Michelle Reynolds, his dear brother, Wayne (Nancy) Reynolds, and nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Gunnard and Velma (nee Whal) and his sister, Carol.
Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we are grateful for the profound impact Gary had on everyone who knew him. His life of service and dedication will be celebrated at Village Point Church in Elk Grove Village on Saturday, April 18. Inurnment of his cremains will be held at Burge Cemetery, rural New London, Iowa, at a later date. Elliott Chapel, New London, is assisting the family with local arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Summer Brazil Ministry Opportunity through Village Point Church, continuing Gary’s lifelong mission of spreading love and faith to all corners of the globe.
As we remember Gary, let us find comfort in his enduring teaching and beautiful memories he leaves behind. May he rest in peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior.
Roland Leslie Hatton, 93, passed away on March 27, 2026. Born October 8, 1932, in Janesville, Wisconsin but grew up in Winfield, Iowa. Roland was a cherished presence whose life was marked by steady devotion, quiet strength, and the enduring love of family and friends. He lived in Chandler, Arizona.
Roland’s story began in Winfield, Iowa and carried him onward through learning and service. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree at Iowa Wesleyan University, a foundation that would support a life defined by responsibility and care for others.
From 1952 to 1956, Roland served in the US Navy, answering the call of duty during his younger years. In his working life, he was an Insurance Claim Adjuster in Cedar Rapids, Iowa—work that required patience, fairness, and a measured hand, qualities that reflected the way he moved through the world. He uplifted everyone he associated with by always telling jokes and singing songs.
Roland is survived by Janet Fye Hatton, his loving wife of 68 years; Teresa Holmes (Tim), his daughter; Tracy Hatton (Karen), his son; and his grandchildren, Zachary Holmes, Chelsea Holmes, Trevor Hatton, Logan Hatton, and Jenna Hatton.
Roland was preceded in death by his twin daughters; his Parents, Walter and Ethel Hatton; and his Brother Walt Jr. and his sister-in-law, Shirley Hatton.
In the rhythms of everyday life, Roland found joy in golf, traveling in the motor home, fishing, college sports, basketball and football—simple pleasures that became lasting memories for those who shared the time with him.
He was a member of the Methodist Church, a Life member VFW, and part of the Iowa Mutual 20-year club, connections that spoke to a life rooted in faith, loyalty, and community.
Special thanks to Hospice of the Valley in Arizona. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Roland’s honor.
A graveside service will be held for Roland at Trinity Cemetery, rural Mt. Union, Iowa at a later date.
Elliott Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com
