By Heather Kusel

August 28, 2014 is a day I’ll never forget.  It was the day I was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer.  By the time I finished seeing the doctor and arrived at home, our friends, family, and pastor were there waiting for us to give their prayers, support, and encouraging words.  Immediately following my diagnosis, we had people sending cards, gifts, organizing meals, watching our kids, and giving support no one can ever even imagine.  Then came a benefit fundraiser that was unimaginable and filled with so much love and support for my family and me.  Three years later, I am still fighting cancer and we still have the same support as we did on day one.  As I shop up town or walk down the street, people stop me to give encouraging words to continue this fight.  There is no where I’d rather be than living in small town Manning, Iowa. And for that I am beyond thankful! 

By Pam Kusel, Manning News Journal

​Have you thought about your legacy?  Webster’s definition of legacy is “money or property left to someone in a will; bequest, inheritance, endowment, and gift.”
But how will you be remembered after you’re gone?  People are often remembered for life’s work or projects about which they were passionate.  The name Fredda Hinz will forever evoke thoughts of the library. Mention Dan Peters and the German Hausbarn comes to mind, as well as the Trinity Church.  LeRoy and Freda Dammann have been dedicated to the success of the Hausbarn-Heritage Park and tourism for many years.
A friend recently said, “I want to leave this place better than I found it.”  That’s admirable. I’d like to think many of us want to do the same.
We are all caretakers of our community, and judging from our busy Main Street, our continual community improvements and projects, along with the compliments paid to Manning by visitors and returning alumni, we’re all doing a mighty fine job. 
This town is blessed with caring people who don’t hesitate to roll up their sleeves and help with anything from community cleanup to supporting the local food pantry.  It has also been blessed with bequests, endowments, and financial gifts.
Warren Timmerman is known for his financial gift to Manning; enabling the construction of buildings, expansions, and the purchase of hundreds of items. There are many others. Funds have been bequeathed to Manning by Lyle Schrum, Erwin Hansen, Grace Hansen, Rose Lampe, Max and Leola Timmerman, Richard Knowles, Lola Ahrendsen, and Alice Stevens, to mention only those who immediately come to mind. The benefits of this generosity to Manning cannot be measured. By developing a culture of giving, Manning can continue to reap rewards and remain a strong and progressive community.
 
 
Imagine ... My Manning
 
Ron Reischl is planning a community conversation to discuss this very topic. People are asked to come and share ideas. How would you foresee the future of Manning? What would you like to see accomplished?  You’ll be asked to “imagine your Manning.” Several local foundations and charities will be on hand to explain current projects and goals.
If you were a trustee and had to designate the use of a $5,000 bequest, what would you choose? Which charitable group or project would you give it to?  What if the donation was $50,000 or $500,000? 
You are asked to be part of this conversation Wednesday, Nov. 15. Doors of the VFW Hall will open at 6:00 pm with discussion starting at 6:30 pm.  The cash bar will be open and attendees will spend about an hour sharing ideas.  Come, “Imagine Manning.”