Sheriff’s office and Baxter school district team up to fund SRO position
Deputy likely to be assigned to the newly established role sometime this summer
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Jasper County Sheriff’s Office and the Baxter school district have formed a partnership to provide a dedicated school resource officer to students and staff.
Supervisors approved the 28E agreement between the sheriff’s office and school district at their April 25 meeting. Sheriff Brad Shutts said this SRO project has been in the works for more than a year, and it has finally come to fruition in part due to a $125,000 grant from the fed-
eral government over three years.
“Some of the stipulations were we had to be primary agency, which now we are in Baxter,” Shutts said, referring to an agreement approved in February that authorized a deputy to provide 40-hoursa-week law enforcement services to Baxter, which has been without a police department for some time.
Federal grant money will only provide a little more than $41,000 each year. The school district will allocate
Baxter’s Class of 2025 celebrates graduation May 18
Colfax opts for advanced life support agreement with sheriff’s office
Jasper County paramedics will respond to EMS calls when available or required
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Colfax followed in Baxter’s footsteps last month and formed an agreement with Jasper County Sheriff’s Office to receive advanced life support (ALS) services and allow for more consistent paramedic-level care during emergency calls, particularly in the more rural areas of town.
Sheriff Brad Shutts said the 28E agreement works similarly with the contract drafted for Baxter. In the event the sheriff’s office provides the only medic on a transport, then Colfax authorizes the county to bill for services. If the county receives payment, then the county will reimburse Colfax $150.
Jasper County veterans arrive in droves for recognition day at State Capitol
Ceremony stresses importance of honoring service 50 years after Vietnam War ended
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Everywhere you looked you saw a Jasper County veteran. They arrived to the Iowa State Capitol on a pair of buses. Several others drove their own vehicles with families or were chauffeured with a son or daughter. Many wore red or yellow T-shirts with the words “Jasper County Veteran” stitched over their hearts.
It is estimated about a hundred veterans from Jasper County attended the Iowa Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day on May 14. The annual ceremony takes place on the south side of the capitol grounds near the
Iowa Vietnam War Memorial Wall. Local veterans say it is quite the ordeal and it draws big crowds.
“I’ve been there once before,” said Vietnam veteran David Elliott. “We go out there and they have someone come in to give a
Jasper County is now obligated to provide ALS services when available and when required or requested by Colfax.
The sheriff’s office shall also
According to the resolution included in the supervisors agenda documents, Colfax and Jasper County acknowledge it is in the best interest of all service providers to provide assistance and support for the operation of ALS services when the sheriff’s office’s ALS deputies take over primary care for the patient.
speech, and it’s recognition for people like me that have served their country. To me, it feels good to be recognized. Things were not favorable for us fellas when we came back.”
Christopher Braunschweig/Jasper County Tribune Deputy paramedics for the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office will be obligated to provide ALS services when available and when required or requested by Colfax.
Jamee A. Pierson/Jasper County Tribune
On a picture perfect day, 38 Baxter seniors crossed the stage to become the newest graduating class. Friends and family filled the gym to watch as the Class of 2025 became the latest Bolt alumni.
Christopher Braunschweig/Jasper County Tribune Veterans from Jasper County board a bus to attend the Iowa Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day ceremony on May 14 at the Iowa State Capitol grounds in Des Moines.
By Christopher Braunschweig
Click It or Ticket
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) is partnering with law enforcement across Iowa to support the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Click It. Don’t Risk It. high-visibility enforcement effort. The national seat belt campaign, which coincides with the Memorial Day holiday, is May 19-June 1.
It is perceived everyone wears a seat belt, but data shows that’s not true. In 2024, 44 percent of traffic fatalities in Iowa were unbuckled; that translates to 108 lives lost. In a GTSB survey of over 1,450 Iowans, 88 percent reported always buckling up in the front seat. Only 67 percent always buckle in the back seat.
“No matter the type of vehicle you’re traveling in, where you’re seated, or what type of road you’re driving on, the best way to protect yourself in a crash
is to buckle up,” Brett Tjepkes, Iowa GTSB Bu reau Chief, said. “Unfor tunately, many families are suffering because their loved ones did not follow this sim ple step. If this enforcement effort alerts people to the dangers not buckling up, we’ll consider the mission a success.”
If you know a friend or a family member who does not wear a seat belt, please talk to them about changing their habits. Help GTSB and law enforcement spread this lifesaving message before one more friend or family member is killed. Seat belts save lives, and everyone — front seat and back, child and adult —
needs to be properly restrained when traveling.
GTSB works with city, county, state, and local organizations to develop and implement strategies to reduce death and injury on Iowa roads using federally funded grants.
Monthly dairy webinar on May 29
to focus on impact of inbreeding in Holstein dairy cattle
The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dairy Team’s monthly webinar series continues on Thursday, May 29, from noon to 1 p.m. This program will be presented by John Cole, chief research and development officer with the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding. He will discuss the impact of inbreeding in Holstein dairy cattle.
Genetic base changes include both corrections for observed genetic trends in the population and adjustments to account for inbreeding, according to Cole. He will share how the changes observed in Predicted Transmitting Ability for individual animals may not match the base change values as they have previously, due to larger Estimated Future Inbreeding changes in the population than in the past.
Before joining the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding, Cole spent three years as the senior vice president, research and development, for PEAK Genetics, where he oversaw genetics and reproductive biology research for the largest producer of
cattle genetics in the world.
Cole has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed research articles, mentored many postdoctoral scientists and graduate students and is a frequent speaker at industry and scientific meetings.
Producers, dairy consultants and industry reps are encouraged to attend the webinar live, which is available at no cost. Those who wish to attend should register online at least one hour before the webinar.
This webinar will also be archived for later viewing on the ISU Extension Dairy Team website.
For more information, contact the ISU Extension and Outreach dairy field specialist in your area: in Northwest Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230 or fredhall@ iastate.edu; in Northeast Iowa, Jennifer Bentley, 563-382-2949 or jbentley@ iastate.edu; in East Central Iowa, Larry Tranel, 563-583-6496 or tranel@iastate. edu.
Memorial Day Service Monday in Baxter
Insurance tips for high school and college
By Sonya Sellmeyer Consumer Advocacy Officer for the Iowa Insurance Division
Graduating from high school or college is a major milestone and comes with new responsibilities, including managing insurance needs. Whether driving a car, renting an apartment, or planning for your health, understanding basic insurance coverage is essential for financial protection. For cheaper car insurance it’s smart to stay on your parent’s policy, if possible. However, if you need a policy, shop around for quotes and inquire about discounts for good grades, safe driving courses, and policy bundling with renters insurance. Also, understand key car insurance terms such as liability coverage which pays for damage you cause to others’ property or injuries to others. Iowa law requires minimum liability coverage of $20,000 of bodily injury to or death of one person in any one accident; $40,000 because of bodily injury to or death of two or more persons in any one accident; and $15,000 because of injury to or destruction of property of others in any one accident. Collision coverage pays for damage to your car from an accident after you pay the deductible or the out-of-pocket amount. Comprehensive coverage may reimburse for non-collision incidents like theft, animal collisions, or weather damage. If your car is going with you to a dorm or apartment, report the change of location to your insurance company. Your personal property will need protection, too. First, check with your parents to see if their homeowners
graduates
policy extends coverage to a student living in a dorm or apartment. If not, renters insurance is essential and approximately $20 a month. It protects your personal belongings against theft and fire, and many landlords require it. Renters insurance also provides liability coverage, and additional living expenses in case your dwelling becomes uninhabitable by a fire or storm disaster. The policy may also cover your property if it is stolen from your car. Be sure to take inventory of your belongings and choose coverage that matches their value. If you are purchasing a home,homeowners insurance will be required by the mortgage company.
Even young, healthy people need health insurance. Under federal law, you can stay on your parent’s health insurance until age 26.If that’s not an option, explore health plans that cover essential services like preventive care, emergency services, and prescriptions. If you obtain a job with benefits, an employer-sponsored health plan is often the most affordable and comprehensive choice. Another option to consider is a Marketplace plan through HealthCare.gov. You may qualify for subsidies to lower your premium. Also, if you’re pursuing further education, universities often offer cost-effective coverage. Always speak to a licensed insurance agent regarding all your insurance options, and compare several companies before purchasing any insurance policy. Higher deductibles can lower your premium but mean more out-of-pocket costs if you file a claim. Starting your insurance journey early helps you build good habits and financial resilience.
Metro Creative
Baxter American Legion Post 493 will present a Memorial Day Service at 10
Monday, May 26 at Restland Cemetery in Baxter.
$45,000 during the 2025-26 school year, then $47,500 in 2026-27, then $50,000 in 2027-28 and $52,500 in 202829. Shutts said quarterly payments will be billed to the Baxter school district. According to the agreement between Baxter and the county, the SRO shall be assigned a four, 10-hour day work week to coincide with the district’s new four-day school week schedule. At this point, the sheriff’s office has not decided who will be hired to become the SRO at Baxter Community School District.
When an SRO is hired on in Baxter, he or she will have to patrol the district and neighboring properties, provide safety and security at district events, facilitate in-ser-
the board of supervisors.
vice training, work closely with administrators and staff to ensure a safe learning environment and be a visible and ac -
allow any Colfax service provider access to patient care reports when a paramedic-deputy was involved. The same agreement was formed with Baxter back in March.
Baxter Mayor Doug Bishop spoke highly of the agreement formed with his city, and he thanked both the sheriff and
“Without this program we would not be able to function an ambulance service for the entire West Malaka Benefitted Fire District up there,” Bishop said. “It has saved our goose several times up there. Volunteers are short to come by. People don’t have time for the training or work from home and don’t have the desire.”
Supervisor Brandon Talsma noted communities like Kellogg and Colfax have been very
tive law enforcement officer on site.
The SRO will also act as a deterrent for criminal and delinquent ac -
supportive of the ALS program ever since it was introduced by former Sheriff John Halferty. Talsma said it behooves Jasper County to try to keep the volunteer agencies up and running.
“We don’t want to come in and take over territory,” Talsma said. “That’s not what we’re trying to do. We’re trying to fill the gaps and enhance the service that’s already there.”
Bishop added, “It’s a great symbiotic relationship.”
tions and will coordinate security and crowd control at extracurricular activities, serve as the initial first responder and school safety coordinator for district emergencies, provide classroom talks, conduct security assessments and carry out many other duties.
Baxter Mayor Doug Bishop thanked the sheriff and his department for all of the efforts they put in to help the small town and its school district.
“The responsive relationship we’ve had with the sheriff’s office is going to be a tremendous cost savings to taxpayers in both the county and the city,” Bishop said. “I think a lot of small towns as we move forward with law enforcement are going to have to start looking at agreements like
enforcement professionals honor the six individuals who died while on active duty: Prairie City Police Chief Mike German, Lieutenant Patrick Richardson, Officer Bobby Barrickman, Officer Dan McPherren, Officer Donald “Rusty” Hewitt and Reserve Captain Howard Holdefer.
this.”
Supervisor Brandon Talsma agreed, saying other county supervisors in Mahaska, Marshall and Poweshiek Counties have reached out to Jasper County to coordinate similar agreements in their own regions. Talsma told Bishop to not be surprised when he receives phone calls inquiring about it.
“We already have,” Bishop said. “As budget constraints get tighter, a lot of people are going to have to start looking at things like this. And, in my personal opinion, it brings a higher level of law enforcement to small communities.”
In a followup with Newton News, Shutts indicated the sheriff’s office will have a deputy assigned as SRO sometime this summer.
In addition to remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice, the ceremony also recognizes select officers with awards. Newton Officer Kyle Lovan earned the Jasper County Law Enforcement Professional of the Year Award by the Newton News, and Jasper County Chief Deputy Duane Rozendaal earned the Jasper County Law Enforcement Distinguished Service Award by the Rotary Club of Newton.
Christopher Braunschweig/Jasper County Tribune
The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office has teamed up with Baxter Community School District to hire a school resource officer.
What’s in their air pods
Part 1
What do you listen to during a workout? Does music motivate you in any way?
For me personally, I cannot run without music. I listen to podcasts sometimes on walks or other low-resistant training. But if I’m out for a job or running on the treadmill at Anytime Fitness, you can bet I am listening to my playlist.
But what do area track and field athletes listen to before they step on the track or before they compete in a field event?
The answers certainly vary. And here are a few of them in the third part of a three-part series.
Track and field teams from Baxter
Troy Hyde This & That
and Colfax-Mingo made their way to Sully to compete in a Class 1A state qualifying meet hosted by Lynnville-Sully on Thursday.
L-S senior Olivia Norrish did not have to ride a bus to the track meet, but she tries to find any song with the word fast in it. But it also depends on what kind of meet it is.
“If it’s state or a meet like this one, I want to listen to something that calms me down because I get more anxious,” Norrish said. “But if it’s a fun meet, I’ll listen to something that pumps us all up. Any song that mentions being fast. There’s a lot of them. It gets us in the mood to go fast.”
Norrish’s teammates — junior Kate Harthoorn and freshman Isabelle Vos —
Senate File 383: A
step toward fairness for Iowa pharmacies
State House
State Rep. Jon Dunwell
Over the past decade, Iowa has lost more than 200 pharmacies, with over 30 closing in 2024 alone. Rural communities have been hit hardest, leaving many Iowans struggling to access essential medications. Pharmacists, the most accessible healthcare providers, are vital to both rural and urban communities. When the only pharmacy in a town shutters, the impact on residents is profound, threatening their health and well-being.
For too long, Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) have driven this crisis through abusive, anti-competitive practices. These middlemen negotiate drug prices but often reimburse pharmacies below the cost of acquisition, forcing closures and inflating prescription prices nationwide. PBM-driven pressures overwork and understaff pharmacies, leading to burnt-out staff, risks to public safety, and subpar care. Iowa’s community pharmacists deserve a level playing field to serve their neighbors effectively.
This week, the Iowa Legislature passed Senate File 383, a robust PBM reform bill to address these issues. The legislation introduces critical regulations to ensure fairness and transparency. It prohibits PBMs from discriminating against pharmacies operating within their licenses, removing patient choice through tactics like forced
SPEAK OUT
mail-order prescriptions or unnecessary specialty drug designations. It bans additional cost-sharing based on where patients fill prescriptions and eliminates spread pricing, where PBMs pocket the difference between what they pay pharmacies and charge insurers. All rebates must now return to employee plan sponsors, and patient payments must apply toward deductibles.
Additionally, the bill mandates that PBMs reimburse retail pharmacies (excluding large chains and mail-order-only entities) at the national or state average acquisition cost plus a $10.68 dispensing fee. Pharmacies can appeal inadequate reimbursements, and PBMs must report regularly to the Insurance Division for oversight. The bill also requires a study of Pharmacy Services Administrative Organizations and wholesalers, with a report due by January 1, 2026.
Senate File 383 brings transparency to a broken system, empowers patients to choose their providers, and ensures pharmacies are fairly compensated to keep their doors open. By prioritizing Iowa’s healthcare infrastructure, this bill keeps dollars in our communities rather than funneling profits to out-of-state corporations. It’s a vital step toward protecting access to care and ensuring Iowans receive the quality healthcare they deserve.
How to contact your elected officials Jasper County Supervisors
Brandon Talsma, chair
4309 W Fourth St. S. • Newton, IA 50208 641-526-3142 btalsma@jasperia.org
Doug Cupples, vice chair
1205 S. 20th Ave. W. • Newton, IA 50208 641-521-8725 dcupples@jasperia.org
Thad Nearmyer
4360 S. 96th Ave. W. • Monroe, IA 50170 641-891-8863 tnearmyer@jasperia.org
both mentioned Christian music, which is becoming more popular among high school girls it seems.
“If it’s a longer bus ride, I’ll start with some rap,” Vos said. “Whatever’s popular. Then when it gets closer, I’ll switch to a few Christian songs to get my mind calmed down.”
Baxter junior Grace Anderegg also prefers Christian music. She mentioned the song Goodbye Yesterday by Elevation Rhythm.
“It’s really good for track,” Anderegg said. “It gets me in the mindset and allows me to forget about everything else.”
Eli Dee, another junior from Baxter prefers to listen to music that calms him down. He likes anything slow that can help him with his nerves.
Lynnville-Sully junior Dawson James is all over the place with his musical choices.
He listens to older country on bus rides over to track meets but switches to newer rap right before he’s about com-
pete in the shot put and discus.
His teammate — junior Connor Deal — has a rap and R&B playlist that he listens to. He’s a big Kanye West fan.
Colfax-Mingo freshman Ashlynn Hosbond is a distance runner for the Tigerhawks. She doesn’t listen to music before she runs but prefers 90s rock on long runs.
“It depends on the day though,” Hosbond said. “I’ll listen to whatever’s trending right now or some 90s rock. I just like to have something to take my mind off the run.”
Colfax-Mingo freshman Chase Trotter likes old school Drake but also enjoys older rock bands like ACDC.
Junior Wyatt Thornton also prefers rap or classic rock. Some of his favorites are ACDC, Eminem and BigXthaPlug.
“I also do a breathing exercise right before the gun to put me in the right head space,” Thornton said.
ContactTroyHydeat thyde@shawmedia.com
Biden’s
Tax Day has come and gone, and working Americans were hit with a bill averaging $14,000 or more. There’s probably a whole lot you’d prefer doing with the earnings you worked for other than giving it to the IRS, and I’m guessing shipping the money off to China isn’t one. But folks, that’s exactly what Washington has been doing with millions of tax dollars every year. After reviewing the receipts, I uncovered more than $18 million sent to China over the last four years by the Biden administration. The projects paid for in the communist country with our tax dollars include:
• $24,000 promoting a “bakery ingredients roadshow;”
• $42,300 constructing and installing a billboard;
• $600,000 supporting arts and entertainment;
• nearly $150,000 putting on DEI trainings; and
• $7 million underwriting research by Chinese government institutions and universities.
Before Biden left office, he left Beijing a present, approving mil-
Supporting our LEOs
A thanks to Newton News for the special section honoring our law enforcement during Police Week. We as a community should be proud and respectful of those who risk their lives every day to protect and serve our city and county. It seems that too often our judgements and opinions of the police are clouded by the very few negative incidents involving law enforcement, and we take for granted all the great things they do that they don’t get near enough credit for. My default position is to side
Beijing giveaways
lions of dollars more for China.
Folks, Americans should never pay taxes to China, not one cent.
We currently owe China more than $760 billion, so it makes absolutely no sense whatsoever to borrow more money from China just to give it right back!
I’m working to make sure the cash coming out of your paycheck will never be given to China again.
I led the fight to cut off U.S. taxpayer funding to the infamous Wuhan Institute of Virology. And my blueprint for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to trim $2 trillion from Washington’s budget calls for ending giveaways to China.
DOGE already canceled a $1.7 million grant for Peking University and another $135,000 for China Medical University. In addition, six Chinese labs were removed from the Department
with the police whenever there are accusations of misconduct, unless and until I see convincing evidence that the accusations are fair and accurate. I know that there are some around here who are quick to condemn and express anger at those whose jobs they really have no idea about. There are also folks who claim to support the police, but not if they are being pulled over for speeding or erratic driving, or if they are receiving a ticket for shooting off fireworks outside of the allowed times. Those folks think it’s some sort of game to “outwit the cops” and to get away with doing something they know they shouldn’t be doing. And of course, when they get caught they aren’t upset with their own bad behavior, they take
of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) list of institutions eligible to receive U.S. taxpayer dollars. Stopping the cash flow to China is challenging because government agencies aren’t even tracking how or where the money is going. That is why I am giving my April 2025 Squeal Award to Former President Biden for billing taxpayers for his giveaways to Beijing. While requiring you to report and pay taxes on every dollar you earn under the threat of an audit, Washington can’t even account for how those dollars are being spent. This needs to change, which is why I introduced the Tracking Receipts to Adversarial Countries for Knowledge of Spending (TRACKS) Act, requiring every penny spent in China be accounted for and disclosed for public scrutiny. I also introduced the Accountability in Foreign Animal Research Act (AFAR) Act, ending U.S. taxpayer funding of risky research in China’s labs. JoniErnst,anativeofRedOak and a combat veteran, represents Iowa in the United States Senate.
it out on the police officer. Some even become local celebrities and have T-shirts printed up to mock the police.
In my opinion, if the sight of a police officer causes you to feel stress, or anger, that’s a reflection on you and your life choices. When I see a uniformed officer, I feel safe.
How about we all make an effort to interact with those in uniform in a positive way, instead of thinking of them as the “enemy.” They are charged with keeping us safe from those who think they are above the laws.
Talk to and get to know a police officer. You’ll find out they really are pretty good people. John Moore Newton
U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst
From Washington, DC
Baxter Alumni Reunion June 14
The Baxter Alumni Reunion will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, June 14 in the school commons. Sandwiches, salads, bars and beverages will be served with a free will donation. No reservations are needed. Alumni and guests are invited to come reminisce with friends and classmates. Call Diane Engle at 641-227-3665 with questions.
Memorial Day weekend travel tips
Certain times of year inspire more travel than others. Memorial Day weekend certainly fits that bill. AAA estimated 44 million people traveled during Memorial Day weekend in 2024, and that popularity is at least in part due to the holiday’s reputation as the unofficial beginning to summer.
A Memorial Day weekend getaway can be just what people need to get into the summer swing of things. With summer set to kick off, even if only unofficially, travelers can consider these tips to make the most of this popular time to travel.
• Book early. Whether Memorial Day weekend travelers are flying or traveling by bus or train, it’s important to book reservations as early as possible. Flights on popular travel weekends fill up quickly, so booking early can increase the chances flyers will be able to depart and return at the time of their choosing. The same goes for bus and train travel. Lodging also can fill up quickly, so book hotel reservations or reserve stays through sites such as Airbnb as early as possible. Booking early can help travelers ensure they aren’t shut out of their desired destination, and it also can save money, as rates tend to go up the
With summer set to kick off, even if only unofficially, travelers can consider these tips to make the most of this popular time to travel.
closer one gets to the travel weekend.
• Time your travel. Memorial Day weekend motorists might want to get on the road before the sun rises. Leaving early, when there are fewer cars on the road, reduces the chances of being caught in a traffic jam. If pre-dawn is simply too early, AAA indicates it’s best for Thursday and Friday travelers to be on the road prior to 11 a.m. Leaving after 7 p.m. on Thursday or 8 p.m. on Friday is best for those who must travel at night. Travelers taking to the air or the rails might also benefit by leaving
on Thursday and/or returning on the Tuesday after Memorial Day to reduce time spent in crowded airports or train stations.
• Expect delays. Travel delays can be stressful, but they’re nearly inevitable during peak travel periods like Memorial Day weekend. Parents traveling with young children can plan for travel delays by packing extra snacks and downloading extra entertainment onto kids’ tablets. Adults traveling without children can build delays into their itineraries and consider them before booking dining or entertainment reservations on the day of their arrival.
• Limit luggage. Memorial Day weekend tends to feature ample sunshine and warm weather, which makes it easier to travel light. Air travelers can pack just a carry-on so they don’t have to wait at the luggage carousel or worry about potentially lost bags. Car and train travelers also can pack light so they have more room to maneuver.
Memorial Day weekend is a busy time to travel. A handful of strategies can make this year’s travels a little more manageable.
Metro Creative
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Interesting facts related to Memorial Day
Memorial Day is celebrated annually on the last Monday of May across the United States. The proximity of Memorial Day to the summer solstice has led many to view the weekend preceding the holiday as the unofficial kickoff to summer. However, Memorial Day is about more than backyard barbecues and weekend getaways.
Memorial Day honors service members who died while serving in the United States military. Though Memorial Day traces its origins to
the years following the American Civil War in the mid-nineteenth century, it did not become an official federal holiday until 1971. That’s one of just many interesting facts about Memorial Day that are worth noting as the United States prepares to commemorate the sacrifices of military personnel who died in service of the country.
• Memorial Day began as something of a grass roots movement. According to History. com, by the late 1860s individuals in towns across the war-ravaged United States began holding springtime tributes to soldiers who lost their lives during the American Civil War.
• Among the more notable postwar commemorations was one organized by former slaves in Charleston, South Carolina. That commemoration occurred less than a month after the Confederate forces surrendered in 1865. Despite
HOWARD ST. CHRISTIAN CHURCH
(Disciples of Christ)
Pastor Josh Burns 101 N. Locust St., Colfax Cell - 515-779-3148
SUNDAY - 10 a.m. Fellowship;10:30 a.m. Worship, in person or online via YouTube
WEDNESDAY - 3:30 p.m. After school elementary youth; 6:15 ChiRho and CYF youth supper; 7:30 p.m. Youth Group
THIRD SUNDAY - 8 p.m. Elders meeting, Board meeting after church; Collect for Food Pantry
FOURTH SUNDAY - Potluck Dinner
FIFTH SUNDAY - Potluck Breakfast
FIRST MONDAY - WIC appointments
FOURTH & FIFTH TUESDAY - 3
p.m. Table of Grace
IRA UNITED CHURCH
Pastors Doug Cupples and Phil Butler
SUNDAY - 9:30 a.m. Church service;
that, History.com notes that in 1966 the federal government declared Waterloo, New York, the birthplace of Memorial Day.
• Postwar commemorations also were organized by northern veterans of the Civil War.
General John A. Logan, who led an organization of Union veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance in May 1868. General Logan referred to the holiday as Declaration Day and chose May 30 because it was not the anniversary of any specific battle and therefore unlikely to be viewed by some as controversial.
• Early commemorations of Decoration Day, which gradually came to be known as Memorial Day, initially honored only those soldiers who died during the American Civil War. However, that changed over time as American servicemen fought in various wars, including both World
Wars, the Vietnam War, the Korean War, and other conflicts.
• The red poppy has become a symbol of Memorial Day. That red poppy can be traced to a poem by Canadian John McCrae, who served as a Lieutenant Colonel in World War I. “In Flanders Field” notes the red poppies that grew in fields where countless soldiers had been buried in modern-day Belgium. The poem was published in 1915, three years before the war ended. Sadly, McCrae himself was a casualty of the war, succumbing to pneumonia in France in 1918 while still in the service.
Memorial Day honors service personnel who lost their lives while serving in the U.S. military. The holiday’s inspiration and lengthy history merits consideration as the nation prepares to commemorate countless soldiers’ sacrifices once more.
— Metro Creative
Church Schedules
10:30 a.m. Sunday school Communion first Sunday METZ COMMUNITY CHURCH 3253 W. 62nd St. S., Newton Pastor David Rex 641-521-4354
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday school; 10:10 a.m. Worship Last Saturday of month - 8 a.m. Men’s Breakfast
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, Colfax Minister, Pastor Cody Dyer Church Office 674-4165
THURSDAY, May 22 - 6:30 p.m. Men’s Group
SUNDAY, May 25- 9 a.m. Fellowship; 9:15 a.m. Bible Education Classes; 10:25 a.m. Message by Pastor Cody Dyer
TUESDAY, May 27 - 3:30 p.m.
Women’s Prayer and Coffee; 6:30 p.m. Gospel of John Bible Study
WEDNESDAY, May 28 - 9 a.m. Busy Bee Quilters and Fresh Encounter Prayer
THURSDAY, May 29 - 6:30 p.m. Men’s Group; Outreach Meeting
SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH Newton, Iowa
SATURDAY - 4 p.m. Mass SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Mass
COLFAX FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
S. Locust & W. Division St. Office - 674-3782
Rev. Phil Dicks pastor
SUNDAY - 10:30 a.m. Family Worship; Sunday School
HOPE ASSEMBLY OF GOD
126 E. Howard
Rev. Paul Avery, pastor Church: 674-3700 hopeassemblyofgod@yahoo.com
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday school; 10 a.m. Worship
WEDNESDAY - 7 p.m. Evening Service
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
CATHOLIC CHURCH
302 E. Howard St., Colfax Fr. Marty Goetz
515-674-3711
SUNDAY - 11 a.m. Mass
MINGO UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Rev. Phil Dicks
515-689-4926
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Worship service (Sunday school not meeting at this time)
ASHTON CHAPEL
8887 W. 122nd St. N., Mingo Pastors: Larry Craig & Mark Eddy
Community Calendar
Send items to news@jaspercountytribune.com
THURSDAY • AMVETS meets at 7 p.m. the fourth Thursday of month at the Colfax Fire Station.
MONDAY • Baxter School Board meets at 7 p.m. the fourth Monday of month
• C-M Food Pantry meets at 6:30 p.m. the last Monday of month at the Food Pantry
• Colfax Park Board meets at 6 p.m. the last Monday of month in the library meeting room
TUESDAY • Colfax Farmers Market is open from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at Mineral Springs Park
• C-M Education Foundation Committee meets at 5:30 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of month in Central Office
THURSDAY
• Mingo Park & Recreation regular meeting meets at 6:30 p.m. the last Thursday of month at City Hall
Help stop aquatic hitchhikers this Memorial Day weekend
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds all boaters and anglers to “Clean, Drain, and Dry” their boats and equipment this Memorial Day weekend to protect Iowa lakes and rivers from aquatic hitchhikers.
Aquatic invasive species, everything from zebra mussels to Eurasian watermilfoil, move from one waterbody to another by hitchhiking on boats, in bait buckets and on other equipment used in the water. They often grow quickly and spread fast when brought to another lake or stream due to lack of natural controls.
“Boaters and anglers can help slow the spread of aquatic invasive species to new water bodies by checking their boat and equipment for unwanted hitchhikers after each time on the water,” said Kim Bogenschutz, aquatic invasive species program coordinator for the Iowa DNR.
Aquatic invasive species can create serious problems for Iowa waters by reducing native species and making lakes and rivers unusable for boaters, anglers and swimmers.
These steps are not only recommendations; they are the law. It is illegal to possess or transport prohibited aquatic invasive species, transport any aquatic plants on water-related equipment, and transport boats with drain plugs intact in Iowa. It is also illegal to introduce any live fish, except for hooked bait, into public waters.
Find more information about aquatic invasive species and a list of infested waters in the currentIowa Fishing Regulationsor atwww.iowadnr. gov/ais.
Clean, Drain, Dry is a simple three step process that boaters need to follow every time they move from one body of water to another. CLEAN any plants, animals, or mud from your boat, trailer, and equipment before you leave a waterbody. DRAIN water from all equipment (motor, live well, bilge, transom well, bait bucket) before you leave a waterbody and leave drain plugs out during transport. DRY anything that comes into contact with water (boats, trailers, equipment, boots, clothing, dogs). Before you move to another waterbody either: Spray your boat and trailer with hot or high-pressure water; or Dry your boat and equipment for at least five days. Never release plants, fish, or animals into a waterbody unless they came out of that waterbody and dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday school; 10 a.m. Worship
BETHANY UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 5627 N. 95th Ave. W., Baxter 641-227-3402
Pastor Chris Hayward
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday School (Sunday after Labor Day to second Sunday in May); 10 a.m. Sunday Worship. First Sunday communion. All are welcome. baxterbethanyucc. org
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF HOPE Capitol II Theatre in Newton SUNDAY - 9:30 a.m. Livestream Worship Service
MITCHELLVILLE CHRISTIAN
DISCIPLES OF CHRIST 210 Third St. NW, Mitchellville Text/Voicemail 515-519-0206 SUNDAY - 10 a.m. Coffee Time; 10:30 a.m. Worship Time, in person or via YouTube Live at 1040 am
WEDNESDAY
Metro Creative
Downward trend in Iowa cash rental rates for 2025
Ann Johanns Department of Economics Iowa State University
The 2025 survey of cash rental rates for Iowa farmland shows that rates decreased, on average, by 2.9 percent in 2025 to $271 per acre. This is the first decline in cash rents since 2019, after a peak of $279 per acre the previous two years of the survey. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach conducts the annual Cash Rental Rates for Iowa Survey.
Crop reporting districts experienced differing results in cash rents: from a decrease of 6.9 percent in Crop Reporting District 8 (South Central) to an increase of 2.8 percent in Crop Reporting District 9 (Southeast). Every Crop Reporting District showed a decline, with the exception of the Southeast Crop Reporting District, which reported an average cropland cash rent 0.8 percent ($2) higher than its previous peak of $252 in the 2023 survey.
The intent of the Cash Rental Rates for Iowa 2025 Survey is to report typical rents in force, not the highest or lowest values heard through informal sources. Iowans supplied 1,492 usable responses about typical cash rental rates in their counties for land producing corn and soybeans, hay, oats, and pasture. Of these, 44 percent came from farm operators, 37 percent from landowners, 8 percent from professional farm managers and realtors, 6 percent from agricultural lenders and 5 percent from other professions and respondents who chose not to report their status. Respondents indicated being familiar with a total of 2.5 million cash-rented acres across the state. Changes in average rent across counties and land quality There was considerable
variability across counties in year-to-year changes, as is typical of survey data, but 68 out of the 99 Iowa counties reported decreases in average rents for corn and soybean acres.
All land qualities reported similar decreases in average cash rents. High-quality land experienced a 3.4 percent decrease, from $328 per acre in 2024 to $317 in 2025. Medium-quality land experienced a 2.5 percent decrease, from $278 per acre in 2024 to $271 in 2025. Low-quality land experienced a 3.0 percent decrease, from $232 per acre in 2024 to $225 in 2025.
The report also shows typical rents for irrigated, alfalfa, grass hay, oats, pasture, corn stalk grazing and hunting rights by crop reporting district. New information in the 2025 report includes crop reporting district averages for land in organic crop production.
Using the survey information
Survey information can serve as a reference point for negotiating an appropriate rental rate for next year. However, rents for individual farms should be based on productivity, ease of farming, fertility, drainage, local price patterns, longevity of the lease and possible services performed by the tenant. Three major factors with the potential to influence future cash rents are crop prices, government payments and land values.
The survey presents typical dollars of rent per bushel of corn and soybean yield for each county, based on the county average yield for each crop during the last five years, and row crop CSR2 index point. This year, the rent per bushel ranged from $0.95 to $1.88 for corn and from $3.11 to $6.20 for soybeans, with overall averages for corn and soybeans of $1.39 and $4.67,
respectively. The statewide average per CSR2 index point was $3.38, with a range of $2.32 to $4.78.
An important factor considered by landowners when negotiating cash rents is the return on their farmland investment. Calculations based on the ISU Land Value Survey and Cash Rental Rates for Iowa Survey show the evolution of the ratio of average cash rents to average land values in Iowa. The calculations suggest that the average return on investment for landowners who cash rent their land to operators has followed a declining trend since the early 1990s, stabilizing at around 3 percent after 2010. Note that this ratio does not measure net returns as ownership costs, including real estate taxes, are not considered in its calculation.
Survey resources
The annual survey was car-
ried out by ISU Extension and Outreach. This information would not be possible without the 1,492 responses on typical cash rents from producers, landowners and ag professionals across the state. Every survey response is greatly appreciated. The full publication is available for download.
AgDM File C2-10, Cash Rental Rates for Iowa 2025 Survey, provides detailed results by county and Crop Reporting District. Archived publications from previous years are also available on this webpage, and Ag Decision Maker File C2-11, Historical County Cropland Rental Rates, reports historical county averages from previous years. Other resources available for estimating a fair cash rent include the AgDM Information Files Computing a Cropland Cash Rental Rate
(C2-20), Computing a Pasture Rental Rate (C2-23) and Flexible Farm Lease Agreements (C2-21). All of these fact sheets are on the Ag Decision Maker Leasing page, and include decision tools (electronic spreadsheets) to help analyze individual leasing situations. An online decision tool can be used to visualize the cash rents by land quality in each county by year, and compare trends in cash rents for a county versus its CRD and the state average. For questions regarding the cash rent survey, contact the authors. For general leasing questions, contact the farm management field specialist in your area. Farm management specialists will once again present farmland leasing programs across the state in July and August for an in-depth assessment of trends and issues impacting Iowa tenants and landowners.
Iowa State University
Iowans supplied 1,492 usable responses about typical cash rental rates in their counties for land producing corn and soybeans, hay, oats, and pasture.
Sports
Richardson’s four wins lead Bolts to district title
By Troy Hyde Sports Editor
SULLY — The Baxter boys track and field team won five events and finished second in five others during the Class 1A state qualifying meet at Lynnville-Sully on May 15.
The Bolts were good enough to put themselves in position to win a district championship.
Their toughest competition coming into the night was expected to be Iowa Valley. The Tigers were every bit as good as the Bolts, but a false start before the 4x100-meter relay opened the door for Baxter, and it walked through it on its way to the district championship.
“I was really excited from the start and getting some points on the board early helped us,” Baxter head boys track and field coach Ryan Hermes said. “We had some confidence going into the night and believing in ourselves, doing what we actually knew we can and trusting ourselves was a big part of it, too.”
Baxter led Iowa Valley by eight points with two events to go. The Tigers were heavily favored in the final two events of the night, but the false start took away 10 points, and the Bolts took advantage on the scoreboard with a five-point victory.
Baxter won the district championship with 126 points. Iowa Valley was second with 121, and the rest of the top five included Lynnville-Sully (116), BCLUW (63) and BGM (58).
“Coy Mergen got us an extra three points in the 200, and we
needed any point we could get tonight,” Hermes said. “It just bounced our way. A few things here and there didn’t go our way, but we put kids in the best positions to qualify and I think we gave them the best chance to get to state.”
The Bolts left the state qualifying meet with five automatic bids into the state meet. They found out the next day that four other events earned at-large berths.
Matt Richardson headlined the group with four state events, Max Handorf clinched a state berth in three events on
his 16th birthday and the duo led the Bolts with 1-2 finishes in both the 1,600- and 3,200-meter runs.
Lynnville-Sully left its home track with a pair of automatic state bids, but the Hawks locked up six at-large berths on May 16.
The rest of the 14-team field included Montezuma (55), Collins-Maxwell (51), Colfax-Mingo (49), North Mahaska (30), North Tama (25), GMG (24), Meskwaki Settlement School (8), Twin Cedars (5) and Melcher-Dallas (3).
The Tigerhawks had to wait until the next day to see if they
qualified for state in any event. They got good news though as the runner-up distance medley relay team was fast enough to lock up the final at-large bid.
“Sully Wilkins is one of the hardest workers I’ve coached,” Colfax-Mingo head boys track and field coach Matt Barkalow said.
“His offseason running and year-round weightlifting have been difference makers for him. After narrowly missing state cross country this fall, I’m so happy for him that he qualified for state track this spring.”
Wilkins anchored the Tiger-
hawks’ distance medley relay to second. Colfax-Mingo’s quartet also included Tony Buenrostro, Wyatt Thornton and Chase Trotter and they posted a season-best time of 3 minutes, 48.11 seconds.
“Chase Trotter is a special talent and young man,” Barkalow said. “As a freshman, he turned in a 51.3-second leg on the distance medley at the state qualifying meet, and he’s going to be returning to Drake an awful lot the next three years.”
Baxter ties for third, C-M places eighth at state qualifying meet
By Troy Hyde Sports Editor
SULLY — The Lynnville-Sully girls track and field walked off its home track on May 15 knowing it qualified for the state track and field meet in three events.
Those three events produced three school records and 11 topthree finishes overall led the Hawks to their first regional championship since 2012.
“Doing it at home on the night we hosted our first-ever state qualifying meet was awesome,” L-S head girls track and field coach Kevin Johnson said. “We won Monday here and felt confident in some stuff. We did what we needed to do and got three school records. That doesn’t hurt. It was a good night.”
The Hawks won the regional championship with 106 points. It was their third title in school history and the first regional championship of Johnson’s
coaching career.
Lynnville-Sully edged BCLUW (98) by eight points and Baxter and North Mahaska tied for third with 81 points each.
The Bolts also locked three automatic state berths on May 15 and Camryn Russell, Makayla True and Sydney Hibbs earned at-large berths the next day.
The top finisher in each Class 1A state qualifying meet advances to the state meet, and the next best 14 performances from around the state clinch at-large berths.
“I’m so happy with how the kids competed all night,” Baxter head girls track and field coach Josh Russell said. “Field events got us started off well and we went on to break four school records and set at least five more season/personal best performances. I was so happy for the girls who qualified and heartbroken for a few of our other events that were close to
making it through.”
Collins-Maxwell scored 75 points in fifth, and the rest of the 13-team field included Iowa Valley (62), Montezuma (62), Colfax-Mingo (57), Melcher-Dallas (39), North Tama (30), BGM (22), Meskwaki Settlement School (20) and GMG (8).
Colfax-Mingo had to wait until May 16 to find out if it qualified for any state events.
Freshman Ashlynn Hosbond was the lone qualifier as she advanced to state in the 3,000-meter run.
“(Hosbond) has shown great talent and determination throughout the season,” Colfax-Mingo head girls track and field coach Laurie McGhee said. “Her success in cross country has carried over into an impressive performance on the track this spring.
“She excels at the longer distances and has only begun to tap into her full potential.”
GIRLS TRACK | 8
Baxter’s Vansice makes history at sectional tournament
BELLE PLAINE — Stadan
Vansice set a school record and became the first Baxter male golfer to reach the district tournament when he fired an 86 at the sectional tournament on May 14.
It was the end of the season for the rest of the Bolts, but Vansice played in the district tournament on May 19. Baxter finished fourth with a 370 at Belle Plaine Country Club. South Hamilton won the sectional championship with a 324 and the other two advancing teams were BCLUW (334) and Gladbrook-Reinbeck (344). The rest of the seven-team field featured host Belle Plaine (427), Madrid (436) and GMG (479).
The top three teams and top two finishers plus ties not on a qualifying team at the Class 1A sectionals qualify for districts.
Vansice and Belle Plaine’s Cooper Hoey shot an 86 to advance as individual qualifiers.
Luke Mortensen of South Hamilton was the meet medalist with a 75 and BCLUW’s Zaden Eggers shot a 78 as the runner-up medalist.
Vansice’s school-record and career-best score led the Bolts, who also got a career-best 88 from Charlie Maher.
Masyn Titus (98) and Cainan Travis (98) had the other counting scores and Colten Damman (102) turned in a non-counting score. It was the 18-hole varsity debuts for Maher, Titus, Travis and Damman.
Vansice played in the district tournament on May 19 at Highland Park Golf Course in Mason City. His season ended short of the state tournament after shooting an 87. Vansice finished 27th out of 78 golfers.
Colfax-Mingo boys end golf season at sectionals SIGOURNEY — Seven area
golfers posted career-best scores at Sigourney Golf Club on May 14, but it was not enough to advance to the next round of the postseason.
Colfax-Mingo’s season ended after the Tigerhawks finished eighth at a 1A sectional tournament hosted by Sigourney.
The top three teams and the top two individuals plus ties on non-qualifying teams advance to the district tournament.
Colfax-Mingo’s Cason Fitch carded a career-best 83, but Melcher-Dallas’ Colton Cox and Hunter DeGard were the individual qualifiers after firing a pair of 80s.
Sigourney won the sectional championship with a 286. Wayne (324) and Moravia (337) also advanced to districts and the rest of the eight-team field
included Southeast Warren (342), Melcher-Dallas (346), Martensdale-St. Marys (355), Colfax-Mingo (363) and Lynnville-Sully (439).
Fitch led the Tigerhawks with his career-best 83. Jace Lewis fired a career-best 89, Shane Hostetter turned in a career-best 91 and Luke Padgett had a 100 to finalize Colfax-Mingo’s scoring golfers. Sean Ament’s career-best 110 and Gavin Sydnes’ 114 were non-counting scores.
Sigourney had the top five individual scores in the tournament. Jordan Tremmel shot a 69 as the meet medalist and Solon Yates fired a 71 as the runner-up medalist.
The Savages’ six golfers shot 78 or better.
Jasper County Tribune
Vansice Maher
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
The Baxter boys track and field team won the district championship at the Class 1A state qualifying meet hosted by Lynnville-Sully on May 15.
BOYS TRACK
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Baxter freshman Kamdyn Krampe, left, celebrates the Bolts’ win in the shuttle hurdle relay with sophomore Kendall Brummel during the Class 1A state qualifying meet in Sully on May 15.
C-M’s Brenner, Baxter’s Koehler advance to final round of regional golf
PLEASANTVILLE — Two
area golfers extended their seasons, but the rest of the trio of golf teams ended their spring campaigns during the opening round of the Class 1A Region 4A golf tournament on May 16.
Colfax-Mingo’s Lily Brenner was fourth and Baxter’s Karlee Koehler placed fifth to advance.
Colfax-Mingo’s team shot 403 at Pleasantville Golf & Country Club but was seven shots back of runner-up North Mahaska (396) and Martensdale-St. Marys won the regional meet with a 348.
The top two teams and the top six individual advanced to the 1A Region 4 final, which was played on May 21 at Prairie Knolls Golf Course in New Sharon.
A third team would have advanced if host Melcher-Dallas would have finished in the top two, but the Saints did not have enough golfers for a team score.
Southeast Warren (408), Baxter (432) and Lynnville-Sully (440) completed the field. Lamoni and Mormon Trail also did not have enough golfers for a team score.
Martensdale-St. Marys had the top three golfers in the individual standings.
Brenner led the area golfers with a career-best 86. All five Tigerhawks posted career-best
scores as Lily Webster (101), Dakota Allen (105) and Chloe Clements (111) had the other counting scores.
Webster finished in a tie for ninth overall and Faith Allen (115) turned in a non-counting score.
Koehler’s career-best 92 led the Bolts and placed her fifth overall. Klaire Shanks (106), Rilynn Titus (109) and Ashlee Herr (125) had the other counting scores.
Melodie Smith (132) turned in a non-counting score. Herr and Smith posted career-best scores.
Brenner leads Colfax-Mingo girls at SICL tournament
OSKALOOSA — Brenner finished 15th, but Colfax-Mingo was eighth at the South Iowa Cedar League tournament on May 12.
The Tigerhawks turned in a 472 at Oskaloosa Golf Course.
North Mahaska won the conference championship with a 384. The Warhawks were six shots better than BGM (390) and Iowa Valley (434) and English Valleys (445) finished ahead of L-S in third and fourth, respectively.
Keota (465), Montezuma (468), HLV/TC (472) and Sigourney (491) completed the field.
Matt Richardson
Baxter senior Matt Richardson qualified for the state track and field meet in four events during the Class 1A district meet in Sully on May 15. Richardson enters the state meet with top-10 times in both the 1,600- and 3,200-meter runs.
Colfax-Mingo junior Lily
earlier this season.
regionals after a top-five finish in the opening round last week.
Brenner shot a 105 in 15th to lead the Tigerhawks. Dakota Allen (118), Webster (122) and
Girls Track
Continuedfrompage7
Camryn Russell led the Bolts as she will compete in four events at the state meet for the first time in her career.
She won the 100 hurdles in 15.88 seconds, which is the sixth-best qualifying time.
Camryn Russell finished second in both the long jump and 400 hurdles, but both got in on distance and time. Russell’s long jump distance reached a career-best and school record 16-8 1/2. That was the ninthbest qualifying leap.
Her time in the 400 hurdles was clocked in 1:10.04, which was the final at-large time.
“It felt good because I didn’t jump well at conference,” Camryn Russell said about her long jump mark. “I knew I had a good jump in there so it felt good to finally do it.
“I was happy with how I ran in the 100 hurdles. I want to run a 15.5 at state. Hitting one hurdle can ruin your time, but my goal is top five. I think I can get that.”
The Bolts’ shuttle hurdle relay also is headed to state. They posted a school-record time of 1:10.29 with Kamdyn Krampe, Kendall Brummel, Grace Anderegg and Camryn Russell.
It was the ninth-best qualifying time, and Anderegg made the pass that gave the Bolts the lead for good on the third leg.
Cadence Linn (130) had the other counting scores. It was the 18hole debut for Linn.
Second-half surge sends C-M soccer past Perry
Jasper County Tribune
COLFAX — Victoria Woods and Lily Anderson scored one goal each, Baxter’s Ashlyn Finch delivered her first assist of the season and the Colfax-Mingo girls soccer team downed Perry, 2-0, in non-conference action on May 12.
The Tigerhawks scored both goals in the second half after a scoreless first 40 minutes. It was the seventh goal of the season for Woods, and Anderson scored her fifth of the spring.
Emmalyn Buchman had five saves for the Tigerhawks, who improved to 10-1-3.
Perry (6-7-3) was led by Cate Erickson, who made 17 saves.
The Tigerhawks take a four-match winning streak into the postseason and hosted Benton Community (4-9-3) in a Class 1A Region 7 quarterfinal on May 21 in Colfax.
The Tigerhawks defeated Benton Community, 7-1, earlier this season at the Newton tournament.
the 800 in a career-best 2:39.6.
Anderegg, Russell and Brummel were on last year’s state-qualifying shuttle hurdle relay team, but they had to wait for an at-large berth last season.
“It was really good. Super exhilarating,” Anderegg said. “We got second last year so we had to find out later. It feels amazing to leave here knowing we are in. That’s definitely way less stressful. Just being able to punch our tickets is great.
“My goal is to get in front of the girl next to me. Then if I can maintain a lead, I think we have a good chance to get first because Camryn always does well as our anchor.”
Avery Wonders got the Bolts’ other win. She won the high jump with a school-record leap of 5-1. That’s tied for the fifth-best qualifying jump, and it bested Huyser, who was a Drake Relays qualifier in the event.
“Lifting up my knee and bringing my arm with it has been something we’ve been working on,” Wonders said.
“That’s something my coach has helped me a lot with. There’s a lot of things mentally that I’m working
on, too. I can’t stare at the bar before I jump, I can’t tell myself I’m not going to get over it. I try to have a positive attitude.”
True and Hibbs had to wait until the next day to see their names listed as at-large qualifiers. Both Bolts finished fifth in their events, but they got in on time.
True was fifth in the 3,000 with a time of 11:57.69, which was the 23rd-best qualifying time.
Hibbs is headed to state in the 100 after posting a school-record time of 13.34.
“We knew going in that if (Hibbs) had a good start and could sustain her sprint mechanics through the 100 she would have a chance to qualify,” Coach Russell said. “She has a lot of good races in front of her. It wasn’t the time or the finishing place (True) wanted, but she did enough to get through and I’m so happy for her. She has worked hard to get to this point and has earned that race next week.”
Wonders also competed in the 400 and placed fourth in 1:05.49.
Hosbond is the Tigerhawks’ lone qualifier. She was second in the 3,000 with a time of 11:36.98.
She also placed fourth in the 1,500 in 5:25.95 and took fifth in
“I’m excited. I’ve worked hard at that event all season,” Hosbond said about the 3,000. “At the beginning I didn’t know if I’d even like the event, but it’s turned out to be my favorite.
“I wish I would have pushed more in the third 200 of the 800. I’m stuck at 5:24 in the 1,500, but if I run that one more, I think I can get better at it. It’s not a bad PR, but it can get better. I need be comfortable with being uncomfortable.”
The Tigerhawks’ next best finish came in the shuttle hurdle relay. The quartet of Jessa Purdie, Lily Anderson, Evalyn Anderson and Trinity Smith finished the race in 1:17.6.
Smith also was fourth in the 400 hurdles in 1:13.43 and Britney Keeney (86-8) placed sixth in the discus.
Grace Hunsberger (4-10) and Claire Hunsberger (4-8) finished 3-5 in the high jump and Lexie Aller (33-4 1/2) and Emma Cook (career-best 32-7 1/2) were 5-6 in the shot put.
There were four high jumpers who advanced to state with leaps of 4-10. One of them was a regional champion and two of them were runner-ups.
Jasper County Tribune
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Brenner chips onto a green during a meet
Brenner advanced to the final round of
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune Baxter senior Makayla True qualified for the state track and field meet in the 3,000-meter run.
Sports Calendar Tigerhawks end regular season at L-S
SULLY — Tatum Huyser was part of four wins, the Hawks won three relays and the Lynnville-Sully girls track and field team won its regular-season finale at home on May 12.
The Hawks scored 133 points in the L-S Last Chance meet, and they were 15 points in front of second-place Pekin (118).
The rest of the top five featured North Mahaska (103), Belle Plaine (101) and East Marshall (96).
Colo-NESCO (28), Colfax-Mingo (27) and GMG (20) completed the field.
Colfax-Mingo’s night was highlighted by a tie for third in the high jump from the Hunsberger cousins.
Grace Hunsberger and Claire Hunsberger tied for third in the high jump with leaps of 4 feet, 8 inches.
Trinity Smith (14-10 1/4) finished fifth in the long jump, Lily Arndt (85-8) was fifth in the discus and Emma Cook produced a career-best throw of 32-7 1/2 and placed sixth in the shot put.
C-M boys finish fifth at L-S Last Chance
regular season with a victory on its home turf on May 12.
The Hawks won the L-S Last Chance meet with 164 points. Pekin was the runner-up with 143.5 points, while East Marshall (100), Belle Plaine (97) and Colfax-Mingo (87.5) completed the top five.
Colfax-Mingo
Boys Track
Colfax-Mingo had the lead for most of the race, but Baxter’s Richardson rallied his group to a win on the final leg.
Richardson passed Wilkins with about 300 meters to go in the race. The Bolts’ foursome also included Lincoln Betterton, Logan Rainsbarger and Eli Dee, and they won the race in 3:44.09.
It was just part of Richardson’s big night as he won the 1,600 and 3,200 and anchored the Bolts to a win in the 4x800 relay, too.
Richardson and Handorf both enter the state meet with top-10 times in the mile and two mile.
Richardson started his night with a win in the 3,200. He won the race in 10:07.6 and Handorf grabbed an at-large bid in second with a time of 10:16.82.
The duo also went 1-2 in the 1,600 as Richardson won in 4:34.42 and Handorf was second in 4:38.72.
Richardson will compete at state in four events for the first time in his career. He was 21st in the 3,200 as a sophomore and 10th last year and finished 12th last spring in the 1,600. Handorf was 22nd in the 3,200
SULLY — Dawson James was a double winner, Jaiden Richards won the 100 and opened the Hawks’ winning 4x100 relay team and the Lynnville-Sully boys track and field ended its
The rest of the eight-team field featured Cardinal (53), North Mahaska (41) and GMG (35).
Colfax-Mingo took first in the distance medley relay and placed third in four other events.
The distance medley relay
as a freshman last season.
“I’m excited, and the four events are spread out on all three days,” Richardson said.
“So I can run fresh mostly.”
Handorf and Richardson joined freshmen Maddux Tuhn and Hayden Burdess in the 4x800 relay shortly after the 3,200 and the Bolts still won the race in a season-best and school-record time of 8:34.11.
That’s the 10th-best qualifying time in Class 1A.
The Bolts’ fifth win came from Dee in the long jump. He won the event with a career-best
leap of 20 feet, 11 1/4 inches.
Dee scratched on his first two jumps and had to have a decent mark on his third attempt just to make the finals.
“I was nervous, but I knew I had to get one out there,” Dee said.
“I was way off the board to make sure I got it in. I just started earlier this season. The more I practice, the better I get. I’m more comfortable with it.”
The other two state qualifiers were Rainsbarger in the 110 highs and Handorf in the 800.
Rainsbarger finished sec-
team of Tony Buenrostro, Will Thornton, Chase Trotter and Sullivan Wilkins won the race in 3 minutes, 51.77 seconds.
Colfax-Mingo was third in a trio of relays. Isaiah Baucom, Xavier Woods, Buenrostro and Trotter finished third in the sprint medley relay in 1:42.08 and then teamed up to place third in the 4x100 relay in 46.65. Alexander Rodriguez-Briseno, Owen Ament, Joe Grimm and Kyle Wood grabbed the bronze in the 4x800 in 9:38.67.
The Tigerhawks’ lone runner-up finish came from Trotter
ond in the 110 high hurdles in a career-best time of 15.23 seconds and Betterton was sixth in 16.63.
Rainsbarger was 17th in the event last year and placed 15th as a sophomore.
“It feels utterly amazing,” said Rainsbarger, whose career-best time in the event also broke his own school record. “I did not have a good year last season so I had to come out and prove myself again. And to do it on a night that’s potentially my last feels incredible.”
Handorf was the runner-up in the 800 in 2:04.51, but that was good enough to lock up an at-large berth.
Carter Smith missed out on a state berth in his final try. He took second in the discus with a toss of 135-0 and placed fourth in the shot put with a throw of 43-3.
Betterton (career-best 23.24) and Coy Mergen (career-best 24.14) went 3-6 in the 200. Betterton missed out on an at-large berth by .03 seconds.
Dee also placed fifth in the high jump with a leap of 5-4, and the Bolts 4x100 relay team of Mergen, Dee, Betterton and Rainsbarger finished third in a season-best 45.91. The final atlarge time was 44.91.
Colfax-Mingo’s distance medley crew is heading to the state meet for the first time.
Three of them also ran the
in the 200. His silver-medal run was clocked in 24.07 and Fisher Grover (25.37) placed fifth. Grove also was fourth in the 100 in a career-best 12.34. Wilkins (2:10.02) and Ament (2:19.29) finished 3-5 in the 800 and then the duo finished 4-6 in the 1,600. Wilkins was fourth in the mile in 5:05.87 and Ament was sixth in 5:19.8.
Woods (5-8) placed fourth in the high jump and Mario Rodriguez finished fourth in the 3,200 in a career-best time of 12:12.82.
4x400 relay and finished third in 3:37.56. That quartet was Trotter, Thornton, Izaiah Lewis and Buenrostro. It was their second-best time of the season but not quite fast enough for an at-large berth.
“It’s been great having Tony Buenrostro back out as a senior following a two-year hiatus,” Barkalow said. “He’s an amazing starter — both quick out of the blocks and a very fast sprinter when in full-stride.”
The Tigerhawks’ sprint medley relay team also was third. The foursome of Isaiah Baucom, Camden Cunningham, Fisher Grove and Lewis posted a time of 1:44.77.
Thornton was the closest individual to earning an at-large berth. He was fourth in the 400 hurdles in a career-best 58.13 seconds. The final at-large time was 57.75.
Thornton wasn’t sure if his time would be good enough, but he felt like it gave him a shot.
“Wyatt Thornton would have won one of the other districts in the 400 hurdles from his state qualifying time but it’s great to see him qualify on the distance medley,” Barkalow said.
Wilkins ran a career-best 2:06.31 and placed fourth in the 800, Xavier Woods took fourth in the high jump with a leap of 5-6 and Grove (56.96) was sixth in the 400.
Jasper County Tribune
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Left: Colfax-Mingo junior Wyatt Thornton, left, gets the baton from senior Tony Buenrostro during the state qualifying meet at Lynnville-Sully on May 15. The duo will represent the Tigerhawks in the distance medley relay at this week’s state meet. Right: Colfax-Mingo junior Mallory Sipma runs in the 4x800 relay at the state qualifying meet.
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune Baxter sophomore Max Handorf, right, hands the baton to freshman
any
They thought they were
a secret. Thankfully, sentiments have changed.
“It makes a fella finally feel good,” Elliott said.
Nowhere was that more evident than the Iowa Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day ceremony. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds attended the ceremony and read aloud her proclamation. Retired United State Marine Corps Col. Gerald “Gerry” Berry told war stories. The crowd was big, just like the veterans said it would be.
Veterans saluted their nation’s flag during the National Anthem and the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance. Listen closely and you could hear a muffled “Oorah!” from
old Marines. Gold Star Families — which are families who lost a loved one serving in the military — were recognized for their resilience.
Jewel Gullett, of Newton, is part a Gold Star Family. Her brother, Rollin Davis, was killed in Vietnam in 1968. She still tears up thinking about her brother. She attended the ceremony in Des Moines to honor not only her brother but all veterans who served. It is important, she said, that their service is celebrated.
“This is an honor to keep their memories alive,” Gullett said, adding that she remembers her brother as a happygo-lucky guy. “…He was a really good kid.”
This year’s event was even more special as it was the 50year anniversary of the fall of Saigon, which marked the end of the Vietnam War.
To Elliott and Wennihan, it sure doesn’t feel like 50 years have passed.
“I remember things like it
was just yesterday,” Elliott said. “Believe me.”
Wennihan added, “Fifty years ago I was in an Army hospital still. I had a spinal cord injury from a back surgery. I had a blood clot. They medevacked me from Germany to Denver. So I was sitting in the hospital bed watching the fall of Saigon in a room full of wounded Viet-
nam vets. That was quite the deal.”
Doug Bishop, chair of the Jasper County Veterans Alliance, spoke on behalf of the “In Memory” program, which honors the veterans who have died from exposure to Agent Orange, post-traumatic stress disorder and other illnesses as a result of their service. Jasper
County took the lead in the program in 2019.
“All of you here as spouses and family members know 58,000 of our men and women died in Vietnam, but that war didn’t kill everybody by the end of May 1975,” Bishop said. “Coming up with PTSD, mental health issues, Agent Orange, all of the above. It took a lot more than 58,000 after that.”
The program was expanded statewide. When Jasper County first launched the program in 2019, it inducted 33 veterans. Bishop said this year alone 23 new inductees have been added, increasing the total number of Iowa Vietnam War veterans who died from duty-related illnesses to 180.
“At one time we were second only to Indiana per capita as to how many veterans we had inducted,” Bishop said. “I’m guessing if we were to check, damn, we might be first in the nation. So kudos to all of you who have done that. We’re going to keep that push going.”
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Locations:
Way Ames, IA
Marshalltown
1st Monday of the month 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
PHC Medical Dental Clinic 101 Iowa Ave., W, #102 Marshalltown, IA
Christopher Braunschweig/Jasper County Tribune
Veterans from Jasper County salute at the Iowa Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day ceremony on May 14 at the Iowa State Capitol grounds in Des Moines.
