Pella community members are invited to read and learn about a man widely respected for his football coaching ability and his high level of character.

“The Sacred Acre” tells the story of highly successful Aplington-Parkersburg High School football coach Ed Thomas, who helped his community rebuild after its 2008 tornado — then was murdered by a former player.

Central College Head Coach Jeff McMartin says the football team helped with cleanup following the devastating EF5 storm, and witnessed first hand the work Thomas and the community had to put in to recover.

Anyone is welcome to join one of the following community book discussions:
Noon Sept. 25 – Central College Geisler Library
7 p.m. Sept. 26 – Pella Public Library
7 p.m. Sept. 27 – Central College Geisler Library
Noon Sept. 28 – Pella Public Library
For the final event, Ed’s son Aaron Thomas, will speak at 7 p.m. Oct. 4 in Central’s H.S. Kuyper Fieldhouse. Aaron will also be available afterward for questions and book signings.

The Pella Wellness Consortium, which includes community wellness leaders from Central College, Pella Corporation, Pella Regional Health Center, Precision Pulley & Idler and Vermeer Corporation, are leading the effort. Copies of the book are available at the Central College Spirit Shoppe, The Sanctuary and Gifts on Jefferson (Pella Regional Health Center).