The ear is found

Sisters Jill Niemann and Jessica Zarnke and their children found the Golden Ear of Corn buried in a hole between the roots of a tree at the Loyal school playground last Wednesday, Aug. 14. Shown (front, l-r) are Sterling Niemann; Emerald Niemann; Grace Zarnke; (middle) Jace and Cruz Niemann; Jack, Alainna and Jessica Zarnke; and (back) Jill Niemann. Clues hinting at the ear’s location included references to geography in the first clue, referring to the U.S. map that has been painted on the blacktop by the playground in the past; “use your mind,” “be sure to stretch” and “stay in the shade” in the second clue; and “Think like Alice and follow the rabbit” in the third clue. The finders received $100 for their efforts and will enjoy a place in the Loyal Corn Festival parade this Sunday. “Year after year for at least 25 years, my sisters and I have been looking for this ear of corn. We would go to my grandma’s every summer, and look and look. Finally this year, everything seemed to come together,” said Jill Niemann, adding that it was extra special to pass the tradition on to their children.

CHEYENNE THOMAS/STAFF PHOTO