(Arnolds Park)– Voting for Winter Games Cheerleaders concluded Friday and the results are now in. This year’s cheerleaders include Sue Boettcher, Bree Blom, Tom and Krista Nelson, Nathan Kraft, Joseph Salmon, Jo Van Patten and Kiley and Kyle Zankowski.
Officials with the Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce say a total of more than 1,800 ballots were cast electronically and in-person.
You can read more about the backgrounds of this year’s cheerleaders from information included in their nominations:
Sue Boettcher
“She works at ISU Extension where she does many programs to support small businesses, helps educate on Parkinson disease, and promote protecting the environment through conservation to name a few. She loves to teach people about bird watching, Master gardening, and shares her love of everything through photography. She is willing to help in anyway that is needed within the community and church. Her enthusiasm for the lakes area is evident in all the ways she works to promote it not only in her job but through her posts. She will not only bring a smile but a major positive energy to being a cheerleader.”
Bree Blom
“If you are looking for a Winter Games hype person, Bree is the one! An Okoboji weekend warrior who became a permanent resident 10 years ago, has been enjoying Winter Games for the last 24 years. As an area naturalist who absolutely loves this area, she wants everyone that comes to the Iowa Great Lakes to enjoy what all there is to offer. When everyone else’s favorite
holiday is Thanksgiving or Christmas, Bree’s is Winter Games! She helped bring Stumps to Winter Games and was a co-chair for several years. It has always been one of her dreams to become an Okoboji Winter Games Cheerleader, so let’s make that dream come true!”
Tom & Krista Nelson
“Tom and Krista Nelson can often be found enjoying and being a part of various activities in the Iowa Great Lakes – from trivia nights and volleyball leagues to volunteer opportunities. Tom recently returned from deployment and is employed at Bank Midwest. Tom is also on the board of the Spirit Lake Noon Kiwanis and is an active member giving his time as much as possible. Krista works remote from their home in Spirit Lake and can often be found on the volleyball courts playing in various leagues or teaching young athletes.
Nathan Kraft
“Nathan is an avid supporter of the community – always willing to give and serve others. He represents what the U of O Cheerleaders purpose is – to recognize those that give, support, and volunteer with the communities of Spirit Lake, Okoboji and Milford. He was a vital part of the flood relief and helps support by giving time and donations to so many other community events. Nathan and his wife are always willing to help!”
Joseph Salmon
“Joe is a selfless person who acted in a heroic manner to save a fellow tourist. Joe was later injured severely but still maintains a positive and Boji proud attitude.”
Jo Van Patten
“Jo is a Spirit Lake native who came back to the Iowa Great Lakes area to raise her family and be a huge advocate for the community. Jo spends countless hours giving back to our community in a variety of ways. She has generously volunteered to serve on the board for the SL Music Boosters,
SL After Prom, been an instructor at various workout facilities, active in Relay for Life and the list continues. She is frequently seen at many of the philanthropic fundraiser events in the area, always supporting with a smile and her infectious personality. Throughout her work in Iowa Great Lakes area, she has always been a supporter and cheerleader for the community we all love!”
Kiley & Kyle Zankowski
“Kyle and Kiley Zankowski bring unmatched energy and enthusiasm, making them the perfect candidates for University of Okoboji cheerleaders. Kiley, as the Tourism Director for the Iowa Great Lakes area, has spent years promoting the community, including running Winter Games as Chamber staff. This would mark the first time she can participate as a cheerleader, making it an especially meaningful opportunity. Meanwhile, Kyle, a dedicated teacher and coach, inspires young athletes daily with his passion and positivity. Together, their vibrant personalities, lifelong connection to the area, and ability to energize those around them would make them exceptional representatives for the University of Okoboji.”
