On 2 and 3 September 2009 Burr Oak director Michael Luick-Thrams and then-project manager Amy Kielmeyer hosted two introductory presentations to local community leaders. Those present included: Turin Mayor David Poole (in blue cap, top center photo), local farmers David and Lin Zahrt, Monona County Economic Development Director Sara Struble (green sweater, top row), Onawa City Administrator Larry Burks and Chamber of Commerce Director Ann Crawford (both in lower right photo), Public Library Director Lori Beck (blue shirt, lower right) and Monona County's Iowa State University Extension Service Education Director Cheri Hardison (white sweater, lower left).