A CONCERT WITH A CAUSE
The Boots and Roots Benefit Concert for the Colfax-Mingo Childcare Center weathered Mother Nature to put on a fantastic show
By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune
Crowds outlasted the rain and lightning that put on a show to enjoy an evening of music as the Boots and Roots Benefit Concert for the Colfax-Mingo Childcare Center Oct. 17 in the parking lot of Georgioz. Headlining the event was Nashville musician Nick Smith who made his first trip to Iowa for the event.
“I love it. It’s no different than where I am from,” Smith said. “It’s
flat, theres corn, people like 90’s country. I’m all in.”
Smith was tapped to play the concert by friends George and Kathy Dickerson and their daughter, Teresa. A friend of Teresa’s husband, Smith has gotten to know the Dickersons when they traveled to the area the past several years.
“They were throwing this event together as a fundraiser and asked if I would come play it. It’s always good to give back,” Smith said. “For me,
they are my friends and when friends ask you to do something you always want to help them out if you can.”
A native of the Volunteer State, Smith got into music after graduating college. He moved to Nashville and started playing gigs on Broadway Street.
“I kind of got thrown in the fire and I’ve been there ever since,” Smith said.
The funds raised from
CONCERT | 2A
Veterans group authorized to add plaque to memorial south of the courthouse
Board of supervisors approve the addition, which comes at no cost to taxpayers
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Jasper County Vietnam Veterans, a local group of military service members, was given permission by the board of supervisors last week to add a plaque by the veterans memorial sculpture located on the south side of the county courthouse. Veterans Bud Pickett and Dick Couch made the
request to supervisors. “We’re wanting to put a plaque of the memorial out here on the south side of the courthouse,” Pickett said to supervisors. “The plaque would be approximately 24 inches by 10 inches and would fit probably right underneath the ribbon we put up there … We’d just like your approval to do this.”
VETERANS | 3A
ELECTION 2025
Baxter City Council Candidates
Tootie Samson
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Tootie Samson. My husband and I have lived in Baxter for about 30 years. We have three children, 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. I am a graduate of Baxter High School along with our three children and three of our grandchildren. I have served as officers on both Baxter Pride and Baxter Economic Development. I have also served on Planning and Zoning and currently serve on the Board of Adjustments.
What are you running for?
I am running for one of the open city council seats. Why are you running for city government?
I served on the council from 2019 to 2023. I am your average tax paying citizen and not a business owner. I am a voice for the citizens of Baxter and especially the elderly who have helped
SAMSON | 3A
Lindsay Bethards
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have been a Baxter resident for nearly 13 years and have loved this community since day one. I am a wife, mother of six and welcoming my first two grandchildren this winter. I am a business owner and Director of Growing Greatness Learning Center since 2021. I have been in the child care industry for over 20 years, previously running that business from my home. I am also new to the real estate industry as an agent since spring of 2024. I am a graduate of William Penn with a BA in Business Management. I am also a substitute bus driver and substitute teacher for Baxter Community School. I enjoy time spent with family and friends.
What are you running for?
Baxter City Council Why are you running for city government?
BETHARDS | 3A
Brad Hier
What are you running for?
Baxter City Council Vacancy Why are you running for city government?
Living in the Baxter community since 1995, outside of a few years in southeast Iowa with the Department of Corrections at Fort Madison, I believe it is important to give back to the community and make a positive difference to the citizens of Baxter.
With more than 23 years of State government experience in the Department of Corrections as a Deputy Director of Administration and Associate Warden of Administration with responsibilities to include the Governor’s Office, Iowa Legislature, fiscal budgets, plant and administrative operations and personnel, coupled with 15 years of private sector experience as a technology engineer, project and fiscal
HIER | 3A
Michael Churchill
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in a small town not far from Baxter. I’ve been with my wife Bunny for 15 years, married 10 and have two sons, Oliver and Andrew, one of which lives in Baxter, as well. We own and operate the local bar and restaurant in Baxter - Benola’s. I’m a Marine Corps veteran who served during the Iraq conflict — 2002-2006. I’ve worked in the technology field for over 20 years. We’ve lived in Baxter for three years
What are you running for?
City Council
Why are you running for city government?
We moved here for a reason, we bought the bar and restaurant for a reason, we see the potential for continued greatness and growth in this small community, and I want to do my part on the council to see that through.
Why do you think public service is important?
CHURCHILL | 3A
Joel Schabilion
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Joel Schabilion, my wife and I moved our family to Jasper County in 2006 after I accepted a job with the Newton Fire Department as a firefighter/paramedic. We moved to Baxter in 2007 and raised our four children and they all graduated from BCSD. What are you running for?
I am running to retain my seat on Baxter City Council after winning by special election last year. Why are you running for city government?
I am running for city government because I (and a large group of fellow residents) were frustrated with the state of our city and felt that all residents of Baxter weren’t being treated fairly/ equally or being heard when it came to concerns and priorities that the council should have. Myself, other appointees and council
SCHABILION | 3A
Christopher Braunschweig/ Jasper County Tribune A Vietnam veterans group was authorized by the Jasper County Board of Supervisors to add a plaque to the veterans memorial on the south side of the courthouse.
Submitted Photo
Boots and Roots headliner Nick Smith, a Nashville musician, takes the stage during the benefit concert Oct. 17 in Georgioz parking lot in Colfax.
Concert
Continued from page 1
the concert will go to the Colfax-Mingo Childcare Center which is currently under construction on a lot directly north of the C-M Elementary school. The Colfax Economic Development Corporation was awarded a $1.7 million grant from the State of Iowa in early 2025 and is working to match the funds for the new childcare center. The new center, which is sorely needed in an area that has been labeled a “childcare desert,” will hold more than 100 kids aged newborn through preschool. It is set to up prior to the start of the 2026-2027 school year.
Iowa DOT is ready for winter weather. Are you?
Weather in Iowa can change fast. During the fall season, one day can be warm and sunny, the next can be wet with heavy snow that impacts roadways and tests early winter driving skills. But one thing is certain - winter is coming and it’s time to prepare.
Today marks the Iowa Department of Transportation’s first official day of winter. That means our equipment, supplies, and plans are in place for future weather shifts and winter precipitation. Our goal is to keep the DOT’s 24,613 (FY 2025) lane miles as clear and safe as possible and give drivers the information needed to make smarter, safer travel decisions. Here’s what Iowans can do to get ready. How drivers can prepare for winter
Winterize your vehicle To minimize the possibility of a breakdown and getting stranded, tune up your vehicle. Check your vehicle’s wipers, hoses, battery, alternator, belts, tires, brakes, exhaust system, lights, and fluid levels. Make sure your vehicle’s heater and defroster are in good working order and you travel with plenty of gas in your tank. A breakdown is frustrating on a good day but can be dangerous during wintery weather.
Stock a winter survival kit in your vehicle - This kit should contain items to help sustain your life and the lives of your passengers should your vehicle become stranded during inclement weather. These items may include booster cables; a flashlight with fresh batteries; extra blankets and warm clothes; nonperishable, high-cal-
HOWARD ST. CHRISTIAN CHURCH
(Disciples of Christ)
Pastor Josh Burns 101 N. Locust St., Colfax Cell - 515-779-3148
orie food items; candles, matches, and a can for melting snow for drinking water; and a snow shovel. Sufficient supplies should be in the kit for all persons traveling in the vehicle. Carrying a mobile phone and charger in your vehicle is also advised for use during an emergency. Use 511 technology to see current conditions The winter road conditions legend has been updated to include pavement that is “Partially Covered with Ice” and “Completely Covered with Ice” and is visible on www.511ia.org. Along with layers that show images directly from the windshields of our snowplows and stationary cameras along the roadside, motorists can determine whether it is safe to travel now or if you should postpone your trip. Slow down for the cloud – When you see a “snow cloud” that is impacting visibility on the roadway, it’s typically a snowplow, and it’s often traveling much slower than you. Consider it a warning to slow down and get a good read on the cloud’s speed, then create a very safe distance from it. A total of 36 snowplows were struck last winter – including 15 in a single day in February. The majority of these crashes were rear-end/sideswipes. When these occur, it takes important snow-fighting equipment off the road, forcing other plows in the area to extend their routes. It’s very important that drivers give crews plenty of room to work. Kick your winter driving skills into gear – Before the first snowfall and slick roads, take time to refresh and adjust your
SUNDAY - 10 a.m. Fellowship;10:30 a.m. Worship, in person or online via YouTube
MONDAY - Pastor Josh day off
TUESDAY - 9:30 a.m. Coffee Time; 2:30 p.m. Chair Yoga
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;
Iowa Department of Transportation
As the temps drop at night you may see Iowa DOT trucks out spraying brine on sunny days. Frost is a major safety factor this time of year. The Iowa DOT’s proactive approach of spraying brine on areas prone to frost prevents the formation of an icy layer, which typically occurs on cold, clear nights.
driving behaviors.
How the Iowa DOT has prepared
Our people and equipment – The department’s 100 maintenance garages employ 1,072 full-time equipment operators, mechanics, and supervisors, and are in the process of hiring up to 633 temporary employees this winter season, to keep the agency’s 910 trucks, 40 motor graders, 33 tow plows, and 10 heavy-duty, self-propelled snowblowers on the road during winter weather.
District garage mechanics are busy doing 150-point checks from the plow blades to the salt spinner of each snow truck in their fleet. These checks are done now so that any repairs can be trucks hit the road. Garages are also conducting snow and ice removal training for new operators and refresher training for veteran drivers.
Interested in helping clear your community as a part-time snowfight-
10:30 a.m. Sunday school Communion first Sunday
er? There are positions across the state and pay is $22/hr. for new hires and $23.50 for returning drivers. Learn more about these positions and apply today.
The materials we use –The Iowa DOT has spent the warmer months stocking salt in our storage facilities for use during the winter. Buying during the spring and summer allows us to obtain better pricing because demand is low. On average, the Iowa DOT uses more than 101,000 tons of salt and nearly 25 million gallons of brine each year to help maintain safe travel on the primary highway system, consisting of interstate, U.S., and Iowa routes.
The Iowa DOT primarily uses salt brine, a simple solution of standard rock salt and water, to help with winter roadway maintenance. It can be used to pretreat roadways before a storm, thus preventing snow and ice from bonding to the pave-
Church Schedules
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
SUNDAY, Oct. 26 - 9 a.m. Fellowship; 9:15 a.m. Bible Education Classes; 10:25 a.m. Communion SundayMessage by Pastor Cody Dyer; 5 p.m. “The Well” Youth Group
MONDAY, Oct. 27 - 6:30 p.m. Men’s Group
TUESDAY, Oct. 28 - 9:30 a.m.
Women’s Prayers & Coffee - Note time change
WEDNESDAY, Oct. 29 - 9 a.m. Busy Bee Quilters and Fresh Encounter Prayer; 5:45 p.m. AWANA Family Meal; 6:25 p.m. AWANA Clubs
THURSDAY, Oct. 30 - 6:30 p.m.
The church schedule is brought to you by Coburn FUNERAL HOMES Colfax-Prairie City-Monroe 515-674-3155 www.coburnfuneralhomes.com
Men’s Group
FRIDAY, Oct. 31 - 7 p.m. Life Recovery 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. Sunday School; Family Worship
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; Today is Food Pantry Sunday
IMMACULATE
CONCEPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH
302 E. Howard St., Colfax Rev. William Reynolds
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)
ment. Brine is also used to prewet salt before it leaves the truck, increasing its ability to melt snow and ice and helping keep it on the roadway surface.
As the temps drop at night you may see Iowa DOT trucks out spraying brine on sunny days. Frost is a major safety factor this time of year. The Iowa DOT’s proactive approach of spraying brine on areas prone to frost prevents the formation of an icy layer, which typically occurs on cold, clear nights. Frost is hard to see on the road’s surface and most people don’t expect it. These unexpected encounters with a frost-covered bridge or roadway can be particularly treacherous when traveling at higher rates of speed, making it more difficult to maintain control of your vehicle.
DOT winter driving resources
Motorists are urged to monitor weather and road conditions before traveling – stay informed and plan ahead – road condi-
ASHTON CHAPEL 8887 W. 122nd St. N., Mingo
Pastors: Larry Craig & Mark Eddy
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 - 9:30 a.m. Sunday School (Sunday after Labor Day to second Sunday in May); 10:30 a.m. Sunday Worship. First Sunday communion. All are welcome. baxterbethanyucc. org
EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH BAXTER Mike Mclintock, Pastor
SUNDAY - 9:15 a.m. Sunday School; 10 a.m. Worship; 6 p.m. Awanas
WEDNESDAYS - 1st & 3rd - 6:30 p.m. Mens Bible Study 2nd & 4th - 6:30 p.m. Men’s and Womens Bible Study
THURSDAYS 10 a.m. - Womens Bible Study
BAXTER CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 218 S. Main, Baxter Pastor Ben Spera Church: 641-227-3382
SUNDAY - 10 a.m. Worship
WEDNESDAY - 6 p.m. Bible Study
THIRD THURSDAY of month6:30 p.m. Theology on Tap at Bea’s Place on Main Street Check us out on Facebook and baxtercongregational.com
tion information is available from the resources listed below.
Web: Visit the Iowa 511 website at www.511ia.org. 511 app: Download the Iowa 511 mobile app for Apple and Android devices. Search for “Iowa 511” in your device’s app store. Mobile devices should only be used when parked and off the traveled portion of the roadway.
E-mail/Text Message/ Push Notifications: Receive winter road closure and other travel advisories directly in your inbox or mobile phone. Visit www.511ia.org to subscribe to “My Reports,” customizable to the route(s) you plan to travel or the highway you use for your daily commute.
Phone: When in Iowa call 511, or 800-288-1047 from outside of Iowa.
Dynamic message boards: National Weather Service warnings are posted on the dynamic message boards displayed above or along interstates at key locations throughout the state. When necessary, interstate closure information is also made available on these signs. X (Twitter): See statewide tweets when you follow 511 Twitter https://x. com/statewideia511
Facebook: To see information we post to Facebook, “like” and “follow” the statewide 511 page or one of five regional pages https://iowadot. gov/511/511-social-media-sites For more information about winter preparedness and the Iowa DOT’s snow and ice control program, check the Iowa DOT’s winter safety website.
CORNERSTONE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP 1000 E. 12th St., Newton Rev. Josh Farver, pastor Phone 641-792-4650
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday school; 10:15 a.m. Worship
WEDNESDAY - 6:30 p.m. Prayer Meeting and Bible Study; Youth Group
HERITAGE WORD OF LIFE ASSEMBLY OF GOD 102 Second St. NW, Mitchellville Pastor Dave Adams 515-967-3330 SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Bible classes; 10 a.m.
Jamee A. Pierson/ Jasper County Tribune Crowds grew
Continued from page 1
pave the way to where Baxter is today. I am proud to live in a community that has its own K – 12 school. Baxter is a clean town, we have several small businesses and our Main Street is unlike any other. I grew up on the farm and Baxter is surrounded by beautiful farms, so it has the feel of living in the country with the convenience of small-town life.
Why do you think public ser -
Hier
Continued
manager, translate well with the responsibilities and tasks associated with a City Council role, if the citizens of Baxter were to elect me to fill one of the vacant positions. Why do you think public service is important?
As mentioned previously, a significant portion of my work career has been dedicated to public service through the Department of Corrections and I believe a continuation of public service for the citizens of Baxter results in a positive difference, if they were to elect me to fill one of the vacant positions. What issues in the city are most important to you?
Continuing focus on a safe community for all Baxter citizens, support of the K-12 school district as well as contin -
vice is important? Involvement, I’m far from a politician but attend council meetings to stay up on where we are and the future of our wonderful town. Not only did I attend ALL the meetings when I was on the council previously but attended almost all council meetings for several years prior as a concerned citizen. I still attend meetings and feel that if you want to run for a public office, you should have an idea of what you are getting yourself into and not just be a name on the ballot or popularity contest.
ued economic growth in our township through fiscal responsibility and sensible city planning. Where is the city succeeding?
Over the past several decades, the citizens of Baxter, IA have supported multiple K-12 and city economic initiatives to improve infrastructure to advance the well-being of our citizens. The Baxter Chamber of Commerce, Baxter Economic Development Corporation and other key public and private sector entities are doing excellent work to continue to move our community forward for current and future generations. Where does it need improvement? If elected to one of the vacant City Council positions, I will utilize the time in that role to collaborate with the people in our community to implement common sense solutions on behalf of the citizens of Baxter.
Schabilion
members inherited a city that was in a state of crisis with multiple critical areas that needed to be addressed immediately for the City of Baxter to remain functioning.
Why do you think public service is important?
I do not know where to begin to answer this question as I am very passionate about public service and helping others. For more than 24 years I worked in EMS (emergency medical services) with the soul purpose of helping, protecting, educating and advocating for others—nearly 18 of those years were spent at Newton Fire Department. During that time I also volunteered as
Veterans
Council members are not above the law and should be held at a higher standard than the citizens they represent. They should be in attendance to their meetings, read their council packet and most importantly follow the ordinances that they put in place for the city. They should never avoid meetings because they are afraid of the public seeing how they vote on important matters.
What issues in the city are most important to you?
Housing for the elderly with one level living that would
Bethards
This community has shown me the importance of everyone doing their part to ensure its success. We are headed in a great direction and I want to be a part of moving things forward. Why do you think public service is important?
Public service is the foundation of a strong community, especially in a small town like Baxter where every person can help make a difference. Public service ensures that our shared community life and decisions reflect the values of those that call Baxter home.
What issues in the city are most important to you?
The community’s continued growth and maintaining/improving financial stability are the most important issues to me. I want Baxter to be strong and viable for years to come and
a Reserve Deputy for about five years with the Jasper County Sheriffs Office under Sheriff John Halferty – until my health declined and I had to reluctantly step away from both. I loved both of these jobs as I personally feel that one of the great purposes we are placed on this earth for is to help and watch out for each other (and especially for those who cannot speak for or take care of themselves).
What issues in the city are the most important to you?
This is an important question because it isn’t really about what I think is the most important issue in the city is, it’s what the citizens are bringing to council and voicing their opinions about. Moving forward, I think it’s critical that whoever is on City Council and in the Mayor’s office really keep in tune/open communication with all citizens of Bax-
free up their mature homes for young families to move into and add to our school system. We are a bedroom community with most adults working out of town but want to come home to a more relaxing environment free of the big city hustle and bustle. Where is the city succeeding? We have a strong school system with growing open enrollments every year. School Bonds have helped update and continue to grow our K thru 12 school system. We have several small businesses. There are volunteer groups that contin-
remain a desirable place for families to relocate for a better quality of life.
Where is the city succeeding?
The City is headed in a better direction fiscally, we have many community partnerships moving in the right directions with fabulous ammenity building projects, our growth is slow and steady and wise decisions are being made to keep that on the upward trend.
Where does it need improvements?
We have a great foundation as a city and we all have so much pride. I think the biggest opportunity is simply to continue to build on what’s already working. Making sure we stay inclusive, connected, and proactive about future growth. I’d love to see continued collaboration of the many important pieces of this community that make it wholestrengthening Baxter’s future.
ter and lead with the best interest of all, not just the interests of a small faction. When it comes down to it, I think people are just really frustrated with feeling like they are not being heard or treated fairly.
Where is the city succeeding?
I will say that we’ve made some critical improvements in infrastructure (water system) resulting in cost savings to the citizens of Baxter which we could then use on other critical projects (streets) which I was really glad that we were able to do. Other improvements that have been made resulting in the streamlining of operations/accounting was upgrading the software the city uses which greatly helps our city and deputy clerk, the installation of remote water meter reading (which will pay for itself). There is actually a long list of things that we were able to accomplish in a relative -
ue to have several community events to attract others to our town. The Chichaqua Valley Bike Trailhead ends at the newly renovated Geise City Park and brings many bicyclists to Baxter.
Where does it need improvements?
Streets and infrastructure are problems in any city and with the cuts in government funding small towns are strapped on what to take care of first. Affordable housing for young families and definitely housing for the senior population.
Churchill
If you feel there is an opportunity to make an impact or be part of something bigger than yourself, then go for it. I felt that shortly after 9/11 when I enlisted in the US Marine Corps and I feel it now in this small town. I want to do my part and being part of city council is where I want to be. What issues in the city are most important to you?
I’m not sure what issues I’d be walking into, I have an idea, but due diligence would be required. I’d act with accountability and transparency first and foremost. As far as what’s important to me personally in this city: the school, small business development, residential growth and being financially responsible. I also want to ensure the small town charm, look and feel remains and a big part of that is listening and working with the people of the city, regarding all issues and concerns.
Where is the city succeeding?
The fact that a small town has a K-12 school is phenomenal and a big draw for small growing families. I’d make it top priority to support the school, teachers, employees and all groups associated. Where does it need improvements? residential growth and new homes development, also small business development. A phrase comes to mind — better together — business growth for the greater good of the city as a whole.
ly short amount of time — which will attest to our biggest collective achievement, which is assembling a team of individuals with the common purpose of sustaining/maintaining the community while gathering resources to move the city forward allowing it to flourish. Where does it need improvements?
A city will always need improvements—just like owning a home. There will always be a to do list with priorities set by necessity. Baxter is a great place to call home--we need to have things in place to allow young families to settle here while making sure our aging population have what they need to enjoy their golden years. Of those things that are towards the top of the “necessary list” are affordable housing and infrastructure. (And if I am missing something, I urge the citizens to please come talk to me.)
Supervisors were overwhelmingly in support of the request and commended the veterans for taking care of the memorial. Supervisor Brandon Talsma said the board appreciates the group and everything they have done. According to the county’s website, the sculpture was created in the 1990s.
The original memorial was built in 1928 and was dedicated to veterans of World War
I.However, local veterans and residents grew tired of the deteriorating condition of the memorial and pledged to have it replaced with a more fitting tribute. The new sculpture was created by Newton artist Nick Klepinger.
Depicting two soldiers in the middle of a battle scene, the sculpture is casted out of bronze. Klepinger worked on the project for more than two years. A plaque from the original sculpture has been incorporated into the new memorial. The project was kickstarted by a small group of
Jasper County veterans. With $15,000 of seed money gifted from the county board of supervisors, a committee raised more than $96,000 in private contributions and sales of bricks inscribed with names of veterans located around the granite base of the memorial.
The real reason Democrats shut down the government
Across America, hardworking families are feeling the impact of the Democrat-led government shutdown. Our troops are working without pay, federal employees are being furloughed, essential services are on hold, and critical programs for women, children, and seniors are at risk. This isn’t because Congress failed to act, it’s because Democrat leaders chose politics over people.
Our District
U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks
The House passed a bipartisan, bicameral, clean continuing resolution to keep the government open for seven weeks while we finalize full-year appropriations, which is where negotiations occur. It contained no new spending, no policy riders, and ensured stability for our military, veterans, families and farmers. Democrats supported the same kind of measure more than a dozen times under President Biden. But this time, under President Trump, they refused. Why? Because Senator Schumer and Democrats are afraid of their base and being primaried. However, they’re
public rationale is demanding a $1.5 trillion spending increase, including taxpayer-funded healthcare for illegal immigrants. They’re trying to undo the Working Families Tax Cuts, which expands relief for hardworking Americans, prohibits illegal immigrants from receiving Medicaid, and invests $50 billion in rural hospitals. Instead of joining Republicans and President Trump to pass a clean funding bill, they chose to shut down the government in pursuit of these radical priorities.
The consequences of their shutdown are real. In Iowa alone, over 18,000 federal workers face missed paychecks, and essential programs like WIC, which helps 62,000 mothers and children, are on the brink of running out of funds. Small businesses are losing access to loans, veterans’ benefits could be delayed, and Iowa’s economy could lose $137 million a week. All
because Washington Democrats are holding the government hostage to appease far-left activists.
As a 24-year Army veteran, I know what it means to serve without question, but no one should serve without pay because of political gamesmanship. Our men and women in uniform deserve better. So do our farmers, seniors, and families who depend on a functioning government.
President Trump and House Republicans did our job. We passed a clean bill to keep the lights on. It’s time for Senate Democrats to stop the political theater, stop prioritizing illegal immigrants over American citizens, and vote to reopen the government.
The American people deserve leadership that works for them, not one that uses them as leverage.
Well, we have a whole new radicalism to concern ourselves with. This coming from our own attorney general, Brenna Bird; and it must be so if she says so. After all, she is attorney general and therefore a person who knows of what she speaks.
The particular offender in this instance is the European Union, a group of 27 countries. The offense of which our attorney general speaks is a recent enactment concerning not only ESG, environmental, social, and governance practices, but also diversity, equity, and inclusion. This enactment is known, apparently, as the “Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive” and includes “sweeping” requirements. No wonder Brenda is beside herself.
This radical green agenda most assuredly will adversely affect just about everything we hold near and dear here in Iowa. And if directly affecting American companies farmers, and such with “unconstitutional and immoral requirements”, it is not tolerable.
It clearly is not tolerable according to the attorney generals of Florida, West Virginia, Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming.
The call to service Climate radicalism
You would think with all this firepower, the European Union would simply take note and rectify the situation immediately. Surely with such distinguished disgruntlement, the effort to address adverse human rights and environmental impacts would be acknowledged to be the hocus pocus that it is and discarded quickly. What a ludicrous notion that the European Union can enact its own rules which affect us Americans requiring American companies to comply if doing business in the European Union.
We don’t have these silly DEI and ESG rules here to make things complicated for foreign companies and a simple immigration raid now and then shouldn’t count. So we need to applaud our attorney general in turning her attention to European matters where things are really out of control.
There is nothing very pressing going on in Iowa that needs her attention anyway. She’s got plenty of people working for her to take care of anything that pops up needing immediate attention. Maybe it would be a good idea if all these attorney generals have a pow wow and decide on some decisive action to counteract this environmental radicalism that seems to be current on the other side of the Atlantic. Maybe they could send a delegation to Brussels for a week of talks and while there have a decent meal or two and do a little sightseeing — you know, get a little culture.
I’m sure that the presence of such dignitaries in Brussels would get their attention and they could effectively explain their objections to any diversity, equity, inclusion, climate change, environmental concerns or other radical notions which we in the States are in the process of doing away with altogether. And maybe, just maybe, convince these radicals the errors of their ways and come to their senses.
Richard E. H. Phelps II Mingo
Don’t turn a blind eye
Recent events surrounding the hiring and subsequent resignation of Des Moines Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Ian Roberts and the CYA attempts being made by that school board has left me wondering how a person could attain such a public position without someone finding out Dr. Roberts was
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Service has always been a defining pillar of my life.
I answered my own call to serve our nation when I joined Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) at Iowa State University and stepped on a path that spanned 23 years in uniform. This decision gave me the opportunity to help pay for college while opening doors to serve not only my country, but also my fellow Iowans.
While deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, I had the privilege of leading 150 Iowa Army National Guard soldiers and directing convoy operations in Kuwait and Iraq. There, I experienced the true weight of responsibility – carrying the lives of others on your shoulders as we supported one another and worked towards a shared mission.
Every time I put on our nation’s uniform, I was reminded that freedom is never free. It is fiercely protected and defended by the brave men and women who answer the call to serve.
And that call to service is alive and well today.
With President Trump back in the White House, we have seen an historic surge in military recruitment with the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force hitting their recruiting goals months in advance.
not a legal citizen of this country.
I was astonished to learn that state agencies, along with private businesses, are not required to use the E-Verify system for checking an applicant’s legal status to work in this country, and that many business owners have actively lobbied against any laws that would require them to do so. The only reason I can think of for any state agency or business owner to be against using E-Verify to confirm the legal status of a job applicant is they
From Washington, DC
U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst
Under a commander in chief that supports our men and women in uniform, young folks are eager to step up to serve their country and ensure America remains the most lethal, efficient, and effective fighting force in the world.
To build upon this progress, I introduced the SERVE Act to boost outreach efforts and open the door to show high schoolers and their families the opportunities a military career offers. By providing students with better access to recruiters and Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) programs while awarding our schools that support pathways to a military career, folks can know the true benefits of service that are available.
For me, choosing to serve not only paved the path to the American Dream and deepened my love for our great nation, but it also laid the foundation for my lifetime of service at the local, state, and federal level.
Now, I carry that mantle forward.
In the Senate, I work to ensure a bright and safe future for our next
don’t want to ask the questions if they fear the answers are not what they will want to hear.
Hiring those who do not have legal status allows for lower wages and no benefits, all good for the bottom line. Turning a blind eye as to whether or not an applicant can work here legally seems to be prevalent not just in our school boards, but has been an issue for decades in the private sector, as witnessed by the current problems we are facing with illegal immigrants
Letters to the Jasper County Tribune will be edited for libel, grammar and length and should not exceed 400 words. We reserve the right to shorten letters and reject those deemed libelous, in poor taste or of a personal nature. Include your full name, address and a daytime phone number for verification. Signed columns as well as letters to the editor and editorial cartoons represent the personal opinion of the writer or artist. Submit letters to news@jaspercountytribune.com or Newton News, P.O. Box 967, Newton, Iowa 50208.
generation. As the proud mom of a West Point graduate and active duty servicemember, I’m especially honored to hear from young Iowans and am able to nominate up to 15 students to attend a service academy every year, including the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. In addition to a prestigious classroom education, our nation’s military academies instill discipline, character, and lessons in leadership. Recently, I was heartened to meet with interested high school students and their families. As I shared about my own decision to join the military, seeing so many determined young faces ready and willing to serve filled me with pride and gave me confidence in our next generation. Service isn’t just about wearing the uniform – it’s about being a part of something greater than ourselves. As long as folks are willing to step up and put country first, the United States of America will remain strong and free. Ahead of the October 24th service academy application deadline, my office is here to support anyone interested in learning more about the process, and I stand ready to help those who also want to answer the call to serve.
Joni Ernst, a native of Red Oak and a combat veteran, represents Iowa in the United States Senate.
flooding our borders for the job opportunities that are given them by desperate or greedy employers. It’s past time we held employers accountable for hiding behind “plausible deniability” as an excuse for the hiring of those lacking legal permission to work in this country. It’s past time to pass laws requiring all employers, public and private, to use the E-Verify system as part of the hiring process.
John Moore Newton
Short-handed Bolts win ISC championship
WAVERLY — The Baxter boys cross country team will be without top runner and No. 4 ranked Max Handorf for the rest of the season due to an injury.
Maddox Peters also did not run at the Iowa Star Conference meet on Oct. 16.
But that didn’t stop the Bolts from claiming the team title at Wartburg College.
Backed by a 2-3 finish from Brecken Fisher and Maddux Tuhn, the Class 1A No. 15 Bolts scored 48 points at the top of the standings. They were 12 points in front of Collins-Maxwell, which had the race winner in Malcolm Toornstra.
“The results really don’t show how close it was,” Baxter head cross country coach Ian Thomson said. “With as many teams which don’t score due to numbers in the field as there were, we were worried about that possibly coming back to bite us. If some of those runners
between (Parker Bonney) and Collins-Maxwell’s fourth and fifth runners were non-scorers then the scores would have been very close.”
The Bolts are expected to get Peters back for this week’s state qualifying meet, but not having Handorf at the top of the lineup will certainly make things more difficult in the postseason, It did not prevent Baxter from winning another conference title though.
Fisher’s runner-up finish was clocked in 17 minutes, 15.6 seconds. Tuhn took third in 17:30.4.
Dakota Parker (19:03.5),
Lincoln Russell (20:17) and Parker Bonney (20:25.6) were the other scoring runners in 13th, 21st and 22nd, respectively.
Sam Wilhelm (22:30.4), Levi Gregory (24:16.5) and Austin England (28:3.6) were non-scoring runners in 41st, 55th and 67th, respectively.
“With the loss of (Handorf) and (Peters) for this race, I spent the week making sure everyone knew we could still win,” Thomson said. “I preached that when it comes to districts and conference that it’s all about the margins for us. I told them I believe we can still win conference and qualify for state. The margins have just shrunk.”
Toornstra’s winning time in the boys’ 5K race was 17:03.5. He’s ranked 22nd in 1A and edged 27th-ranked Fisher by 12 seconds.
“It was a total team win,” Thomson said. “If even one runner ran a little worse we wouldn’t have won. (Fisher) and (Tuhn) ran great races. They were competing the whole way. However, (Parker), (Russell) and (Bonney) stepped up. The team knew we were short staffed and they knew that the odds were against us but they still showed up. Not many teams can be missing two topfour runners on their team and still win. That just goes to show each athlete’s hard work and how deep of a team we are.”
Thomson said Handorf is out for the rest of the season due to a broken bone in his foot and Elise Hauser, the only girl on the squad, also will not return this season due to an injury.
Baxter heads to South Hamilton for state qualifying
The Bolt boys will compete for a state berth at the Class 1A
Collins-Maxwell scored 60 points in second and the rest of the eight-team field included Riceville (96), Valley Lutheran (108), Cedar Ridge Christian (116), Don Bosco (126), Colo-NESCO (130) and Janesville (200).
C-M volleyball downs pair of conference foes
By Troy Hyde Sports Editor
SULLY — Colfax-Mingo senior Britney Keeney has started 117 matches in her varsity volleyball career. But she’s never had a better stretch of consecutive matches than she did this past week during South Iowa Cedar League matchups with Belle Plaine and Lynnville-Sully.
Keeney’s career-best 16 kills led the Tigerhawks to a five-set win over the Lady Plainsmen on Oct. 13, but she backed it up with another 16 kills in the four-set win over Lynnville-Sully on Oct. 16.
Colfax-Mingo started strong against the Hawks and then recovered after a loss in the second set to down its hosts 25-18, 21-25, 25-19, 25-17.
“I do have a lot of confidence right now,” Keeney said. “I’ve played a lot of volleyball at this level, and I’m getting used to it more now.”
Colfax-Mingo posted its third straight win over the Hawks and claimed a four-set victory for the second consecutive season.
The Tigerhawks also registered back-to-back conference wins for the first time this fall.
“We dug ourselves a hole in conference play so the goal now becomes ‘can we play our best volleyball at the end of the season?’
We know we haven’t accomplished what we wanted to in the conference, but we’ve been really close in almost every one of those losses,”
Colfax-Mingo head volleyball coach Mike Hunsberger said. “I love what they’re doing. They’re fighting.”
The Tigerhawks’ win spoiled Senior Night for a group of five Hawk seniors that included Tatum Huyser, Kate Harthoorn, Jaelynn Vander Wilt, Morgan Hay and Lori Yoder.
Eight different Hawks posted at least one ace, but Lynnville-Sully had a kill efficiency of .086 and dropped its fifth straight SICL match.
Keeney put down a pair of kills early in the first set, but L-S led 3-2 following blasts at the net by Huyser and Vander Wilt and ace by Yoder.
The Hawks’ advantage grew to 7-2 after kills by Vander Wilt and Olivia Beyer.
But a pair of tip kills by Mickey Bucklin brought the Tigerhawks back to even at 9-all.
Colfax-Mingo rallied from two more three-point deficits, and Keeney led the charge. Her first kill during a service run by Katelyn Steenhoek made it 13-11, and Keeney’s block and kill on consecutive points pushed the visitors in front 15-13.
Steenhoek’s long service run started and ended with an ace, and the final point swelled the advantage to 18-13.
Lynnville-Sully (7-12, 3-7 in the SICL) got as close as two before another Bucklin kill and an ace from Keeney extended C-M’s lead back to six, and the Tigerhawks went on to win by seven.
“When we do get down, the start
of us getting back up is usually just one really good play,” Keeney said. “That usually is enough for us to play better and turn things around.”
The Hawks evened the match with better play in the second set.
A kill and an ace from Penelope Robinson gave L-S an early 3-2 lead, but the set was tied at 3, 4, 5 and 6 before the Tigerhawks (10-12, 3-7) scored four straight that included back-to-back aces by Grace Hunsberger.
A 6-0 run by the Hawks pushed the hosts back in front 12-10, but the set was again tied at 13, 15 and 16.
The Hawks controlled the back end of the second set as an ace by Harthoorn made it 18-16 and a kill by Ava Brummel swelled their lead to 23-17.
The Tigerhawks got within two with a 4-0 run, but L-S closed out the set with a free-ball kill from Isabelle Vos.
Vos made her varsity debut and put down a career-best six kills.
The Hawks got out to a 4-1 lead in the third set, but neither team grabbed much of an advantage after that.
A 4-0 run that ended with backto-back kills from Keeney and Isabelle Utz pushed C-M in front 5-4, but the set was tied at 5, 6 and 8.
Another kill from Brummel started a 6-0 run that also included another blast from Vos. The Hawks led 18-13 but were outscored 12-1 the rest of the way.
state qualifying meet hosted by South Hamilton at 4 p.m. on Oct. 23 in Jewell.
The Iowa High School Athletic Association and Iowa High School Athletic Girls Union released the assignments for all four classes on Oct. 15.
The No. 15 Bolts will be joined at South Hamilton by No. 3 Ankeny Christian Academy and No. 17 North Butler as well as Alta-Aurelia, Ar-WeVa, BCLUW, Colfax-Mingo, Colo-NESCO, East Marshall, GMG, Madrid, Manson Northwest Webster, Melcher-Dallas, Meskwaki Settlement School, Panorama, Southeast Warren, Fort Dodge St. Edmond, Woodward Academy and host South Hamilton.
Fisher is one of five ranked runners in the race. ACA’s Alex Davis is the highest ranked athlete at No. 5.
The top 10 individuals and top two teams at each 1A state qualifying meet advance to the state meet at the beginning of November.
C-M girls finish fifth, boys eighth at SICL meet
SEARSBORO — A 2-3 finish powered the Lynnville-Sully boys cross country team to its second straight South Iowa Cedar League championship on Oct. 14. And the Class 1A No. 9 Hawks left no doubt after placing its five scoring runners in the top 11 and scoring 33 points at the top of the standings.
Lynnville-Sully was so dominant that its sixth through 10 runners would have placed third overall.
No. 9 English Valleys edged No. 11 Lynnville-Sully by eight points at the top of the girls’ standings, and Colfax-Mingo was fifth after Ashlynn Hosbond led all area runners in second place in the 5K race at the Big Springs Shooting Complex.
Lynnville-Sully was 59 points in front second place English Valleys (92)on the boys’ side. Sigourney (114)edged BGM (115) by a single point for third and Montezuma (151)finished narrowly in front of North Mahaska (155) and Belle Plaine (157) for fifth.
The rest of the 10-team field included Colfax-Mingo (169), HLV/TC (174) and Iowa Valley (232). Lynnville-Sully’s Colton Alberts was the runner-up in the boys’ race.
The 19th-ranked runner in 1A posted a time of 16 minutes, 47.89 seconds. Blake Wilmesmeier (17:00.52) finished third
The top five finishers earn first team all-conference, the next five are second team and the 11th and 12th place finishers get honorable mention recognition.
Colfax-Mingo’s Sullivan Wilkins grabbed one of the first team all-conference positions as he led the Tigerhawks in fourth. His time was clocked in 17:13.35.
The rest of C-M’s scoring runners were Mario Rodriguez (19:05.84) in 19th, Willie Fitzgerald (22:05.67) in 53rd, Benjamin Faidley (22:13.79) in 55th and Ryan Moore (23:53.17) in 61st.
Asher Knutson (28:16.06) and Milo Knutson (28:20.08) were non-scoring runners in 69th and 70th, respectively. Rodriguez, Faidley and Milo Knutson all posted career-best times.
Sigourney’s Troy Klett edged Alberts for the SICL individual championship. The 1A No. 20 ranked runner posted a winning time of 16:46.43. English Valleys scored 50 points at the top of the girls’ standings. Lynnville-Sully (58) was next followed by North Mahaska (67), Sigourney (84) and Colfax-Mingo (115).
The rest of the eight-team field included BGM (157), Belle Plaine (169) and HLV/TC (204). Montezuma and Iowa Valley had incomplete teams.
North Mahaska’s Emmerson Jedlicka edged Hosbond for the individual SICL championship.
Jedlicka won the girls’ race in 19:53.26, and 1A No. 29 Hosbond posted a career-best time of 19:55.15 in second.
Colfax-Mingo’s other scoring runners were Ivy Anderson (22:40.13) in 17th, Lilyan Hadsall (24:14.58) in 31st, Mallory Sipma (25:24.3) in 39th and Jessica Gibson (25:28.22) in 40th.
Sahara Buenrostro (26:20.23) was a non-scoring runner in 46th. Anderson and Hadsall both posted career-best times.
Jasper County Tribune
Fisher Tuhn
Jasper County Tribune
Hosbond
Wilkins
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune Colfax-Mingo senior Britney Keeney, left, blocks Lynnville-Sully senior Tatum Huyser at the net during the Tigerhawks’ four-set win in Sully on Oct. 16. Keeney led C-M with 16 kills.
Volleyball Postseason
October 23
Cross Country State Qualifying Meet
Class 1A
Colfax-Mingo, Baxter coed at South Hamilton, 4 p.m.
Troy Hyde/ Jasper County Tribune
Colfax-Mingo sophomore Isabelle Utz totaled six kills and 15 digs in the Tigerhawks’ road win over Lynnville-Sully on Oct. 16.
Baxter football ends season with loss to Braves
BAXTER — Brady Boulton accounted for six touchdowns, and Montezuma broke open a close game with huge second and third quarters during a 6328 road win over the Baxter football team on Oct. 17. The Bolts and Braves were even at 6-all after one, but Montezuma outscored Baxter 42-16 in the middle two quarters of the Class 8-man District 7 contest.
The loss capped the careers of
six players, who were all recognized on Senior Night. That group included Stadan Vansice, Eli Dee, Cael Wishman, Ruger Kincaid, Trevor Hamilton and Cody Spurgeon.
Vansice rushed for 179 yards and two touchdowns to lead Baxter (3-5, 2-4). He also had 98
passing yards, one TD and four interceptions and led the Bolts’ defense with 10.5 tackles.
Colten Damman had six catches for 52 yards, Kincaid gained 28 yards and scored one TD on 12 carries and caught two passes for 19 yards and Eli Dee hauled in two passes for 11 yards and one TD. Hayden Burdess’ only catch went for 16 yards.
Miles McCord posted 5.5 tackles, Kincaid totaled 3.5 tackles and two tackles for loss, Damman and Burdess finished
Volleyball
Keeney put down four kills during an 8-0 run that saw C-M push the lead at 21-18. A kill and an ace from Utz helped the Tigerhawks finish off the come-from-behind win.
“I don’t think anything changed all that much,” Keeney said. “We started playing better. It wasn’t any big changes. We just figured things out I guess.”
Coach Hunsberger admires the way his team can come back from a deficit but would prefer they not dig themselves such a big hole moving forward.
“It’s about not letting our emotions get too big in the big moments or too down in the low moments,” Coach Hunsberger said. “We need to be more consistent throughout. We’re getting better at it. I don’t think we’ve arrived yet. I think we have more to go.”
The Tigerhawks avoided a big deficit in the fourth set. Keeney opened the frame with back-to-back kills and then consecutive aces by Hope Allen helped the visitors recover from a 7-4 hole.
The set was tied at 9 and 10 before a long service run by Grace Allen helped Colfax-Mingo go in front 15-10.
The run included two kills by Keeney and one from Bucklin.
A kill by Vander Wilt kept the Hawks’ margin at five, but a kill from Steenhoek, an ace by Utz and a block by Keeney extended C-M’s advantage to 21-12.
The surplus grew to double digits after a Bucklin block and a Keeney kill.
The Hawks closed the gap to seven before C-M finished off the victory with one final point.
Keeney finished with 16 kills, three blocks and three digs and Bucklin posted a career-best 10 kills and added two blocks.
“Both middles played big at the net. They made them alter their swings,” Coach Hunsberger said about Bucklin and Keeney. “It’s moments of learning to play more consistently as a team. We’re trying to stack good points together and then stack good sets together.”
Colfax-Mingo senior Britney Keeney put down a career-best 16 kills in SICL wins over Belle Plaine and Lynnville-Sully last week. She leads the Tigerhawks with 154 kills and 43 blocks this fall and has 35 aces. Sports Calendar
Steenhoek finished with 24 assists, seven kills and 12 digs, Grace Allen added 25 digs and three assists and Hope Allen totaled nine assists and 13 digs.
Utz registered six kills and 15 digs, Macie Porter contributed 12 digs and two assists, Dakota Allen collected two assists, three kills, nine digs and two blocks and Grace Hunsberger put down three kills.
The Tigerhawks were 89-of-95 in serves with 12 aces. Steenhoek
served 26-of-27, Utz was 16-of-17, Hope Allen finished 12-of-12 and Grace Allen served 10-of-10.
Colfax-Mingo finished with a kill efficiency of .102. Bucklin’s kill efficiency was .364 and Keeney had a .278.
Colfax-Mingo 3, Belle Plaine 2 COLFAX — A double-double from Steenhoek and career nights from Keeney and Grace Allen powered Colfax-Mingo past Belle Plaine on Oct. 13.
The Tigerhawks rallied from a 2-1 deficit to down the Lady Plainsmen 25-22, 18-25, 21-25, 30-28, 1816 during SICL action.
It was the Tigerhawks’ third straight win over Belle Plaine, but the two teams played a five-set match for the first time since 2016.
Colfax-Mingo was helped by 18 aces, and it had a kill efficiency of .117. Belle Plaine served 14 aces and had a kill efficiency of .183.
Steenhoek led the Tigerhawks with 25 assists, six kills, 19 digs and eight aces. She was 30-of-31 in serves.
Hope Allen contributed 14 assists, five digs and three aces, Keeney put down a career-high 16 kills and Grace Allen totaled a career-best 24 digs.
Keeney added eight digs, Grace Allen put down two kills, Utz registered five kills, 12 digs and six aces and Grace Hunsberger tallied six kills and eight digs.
Dakota Allen posted six kills, Bucklin had four kills and Meadow Lane and Porter each finished with seven digs.
The Tigerhawks were 98-of-111 in serves with Hope Allen going 15-of-16 and Grace Allen finishing 11-of-12.
Keeney had a kill efficiency of .325. She finished with three hitting errors in 40 attempts.
Dakota Allen’s kill efficiency was .263. She made one error in 19 tries and Bucklin had two errors in 14 attempts.
Allison Hoover led Belle Plaine (12-12, 5-3) with 13 kills, 16 digs and three aces.
Tigerhawks down Perry at Woodward-Granger tournament WOODWARD — Colfax-Mingo fell behind against Class 4A Perry during the Woodward-Granger tournament on Oct. 18.
But the Tigerhawks rallied for an 18-21, 21-19, 15-12 victory. Unfortunately for C-M, it was its only win of the day as the Tigerhawks fell in three sets to Madrid and lost in straight sets to ACGC and 4A Boone.
In the loss to Perry, Steenhoek led the Tigerhawks with 12 assists, five kills, six digs and two aces. Hope Allen added eight assists and 11 digs, Grace Hunsberger posted seven kills, three digs and three aces
and Utz totaled four kills and four digs.
Keeney chipped in three kills, two blocks and two digs, Grace Allen and Lane contributed seven digs each, Dakota Allen registered two blocks and Porter had two digs.
Colfax-Mingo finished 47-of-52 in serves with six aces. Steenhoek and Utz both served 8-of-8, Hope Allen was 7-of-8 and Keeney served 8-of-9.
Perry (6-23) was 46-of-51 with one ace. Charity Parnell led the Bluejays with eight kills and five digs.
In a preview of a first-round regional matchup, Madrid (7-24) downed the Tigerhawks 21-19, 1221, 15-12.
Steenhoek posted 10 assists and 11 digs, Hope Allen totaled 10 assists, five digs and two aces and Keeney chipped in six kills and four blocks. Utz finished with five kills and two digs, Grace Hunsberger had four kills and four digs and Dakota Allen tallied five kills.
Grace Allen secured 16 digs, Porter chipped in nine digs, Lane registered seven digs and Bucklin put down two kills.
The Tigerhawks were 47-of-52 in serves with three aces. Steenhoek served 11-of-11, Grace Allen was 8-of-8 and Hope Allen finished 12of-13.
ACGC had no trouble with Colfax-Mingo, winning 21-14, 21-5. Steenhoek’s two assists, four kills and three digs led the way, while Keeney put down three kills, Hope Allen dished out three assists, Grace Hunsberger contributed two kills and Utz posted two digs.
The Tigerhawks were 17-of-20 in serves with one ace, while ACGC (23-11) was 40-of-41 with six aces.
Stella Largent led the Chargers with 13 kills and five digs and Becca Littler dished out 21 assists.
Boone (10-16) served up eight aces in its 21-10, 21-19 win. Tria Hoyle put down six kills and Taylor Arringdale had eight digs and three aces.
Keeney finished with four kills and three aces to lead the Tigerhawks, while Steenhoek had six assists, two kills and four digs.
Hope Allen contributed four assists and two digs, Grace Hunsberger added three kills and two digs, Grace Allen registered five digs, Lane had three digs and Porter and Utz totaled two digs
Dakota Allen put down two kills, and the Tigerhawks were 27-of-30 in serves with six aces. Steenhoek and Utz served 8-of-8.
Notes: The Tigerhawks defeated Madrid in straight sets in the opening round of the Class 2A regional tournament on Oct. 20. Statistics were unavailable at press time, but full coverage of that match will be in next week’s Jasper County Tribune.
with 3.5 tackles and Spurgeon had 2.5 tackles and 1.5 tackles for loss.
Boulton led Montezuma (62, 5-1 in the district) with 159 passing yards and three scores and 118 rushing yards and three touchdowns.
Broox Stockman gained 112 yards and scored three TDs on 15 carries, and he led the Braves with 11.5 tackles.
The Braves rushed for 266 yards and picked off four passes on defense.
Madrid hands Tigerhawks season-ending road loss
MADRID — The Colfax-Mingo football team rushed for more than 100 yards for the fifth time this season, but the Tigerhawks couldn’t keep up with district runner-up Madrid during a 59-0 road loss on Oct. 17.
The Tigers locked up the second seed in the district the week before but finished off their season with a dominant home victory that included 316 rushing yards.
Madrid has outscored Colfax-Mingo 126-6 the past two seasons. The Tigerhawks (0-8, 0-6 in the district) were shut out for the first time this fall.
Fisher Grove led the C-M offense with 74 rushing yards on 16 carries. He also had 19 yards on three catches.
Wyatt Jay rushed for 25 yards on nine carries and had one catch for 29 yards, Alex Teed had a 13-yard catch and Camden Cunningham threw for 61 yards and two interceptions.
Cunningham had six tackles to lead the defense, while Kyle Wood posted 5.5 tackles, Grove had four tackles and Wyatt Thornton recovered a fumble.
Loken Velkey led the Tigers (5-3, 5-1) with 56 passing yards, 70 rushing yards and one touchdown. Easton Halverson rushed for 98 yards and six carries, and the Tigers had nine tackles for loss and two sacks.
Kinnick Grimm scored a defensive TD, snagged an interception and returned a punt for a touchdown.
Troy Hyde/ Jasper County Tribune
Britney Keeney
Jasper County Tribune
Jasper County Tribune
Vansice
Baxter freshman Olivia Parrie sets up a teammate during the Bolts’ regional match with Lynnville-Sully on Oct. 20. The Bolts’ season ended with a four-set loss to the Hawks. Full coverage of this match can be found in next week’s Jasper County Tribune.
5.2.6.1
The next steps after a breast cancer diagnosis
Certain steps may not take away the initial shock, but can help people prepare for what’s ahead
A breast cancer diagnosis can be jarring, and millions of women receive such news across the globe each year. BreastCancer.org estimates 316,950 women in the United States will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2025, as well as 59,080 new cases of ductal carcinoma in situ, a non-invasive form of the disease. The Canadian Cancer Society reports approximately 30,500 women are projected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025.
After learning they have breast cancer, individuals may not know what to do next. Certain steps may not take away the initial shock, but can help people prepare for what’s ahead.
Gather information
The first step is to learn more about your diagnosis. This should include details about the type, stage and hormone receptor status of the breast cancer from your doctor. Now is the time to ask the doctor to clarify anything you do not understand. He or she also may begin to spell out a treatment plan.
Unless the cancer is very aggressive, you likely have time to seek a second opinion. Another specialist can confirm the diagnosis and offer a second opinion about a potential treatment plan. After all expert opinions are gathered, you also may want
to learn more through reputable sources like the Mayo Clinic or the American Cancer Society before making any treatment decisions.
Share the news
Some people want to keep their cancer diagnosis a secret, but it can be helpful to let loved ones know early on. This will help you build a strong support system that can offer emotional support and additional assistance when needed. Treatment may leave you feeling weakened and ill, and you might need some helpers to lighten your
load. A counselor or therapist also can help you navigate the emotions of a breast cancer diagnosis.
Accept help
It can be difficult for those who are independent to admit they need assistance. You can take the reins by making a list of tasks or responsibilities that you may need help with. This way when people ask what they can do, you’ll have answers at the ready. Ideas include help with meal preparation, childcare, errands, transportation, or keeping you company during
Breast cancer terms to know
A recent analysis from the Agency for Research on Cancer and collaborators estimated that 3.2 million new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed annually across the globe by 2050. That would mark a significant increase in annual cases since 2022, when the World Health Organization reported 2.3 million individuals were diagnosed with breast cancer.
Though breast cancer affects millions of women and their support networks each year, it’s not always so easy to understand all of the terminology surrounding the disease. With that in mind, people recently diagnosed with the disease or those who know someone in such a position can learn these common terms to make their journey to recovery a little easier to navigate.
•Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): Many terms related to breast cancer can be scary, but DCIS is among the more welcoming words a doctor may utter. DCIS is a non-invasive form of breast cancer that doctors may characterize as “stage 0.” Breast cancers identified as DCIS are very early stage and highly treatable.
•Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC): Susan G. Komen®, an organization dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness, notes that IDC is a form of the disease that begins in the milk ducts but has spread into surrounding breast tissue and possibly into the lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
•Lumpectomy: According to Susan G.Komen®, a lumpectomy is a surgical procedure that removes only the tumor and a small amount of tissue around it. Most of the breast skin and tissue is left in place during a lumpectomy.
•Mastectomy: A mastectomy is a surgical removal of the breast. Susan G. Komen® notes there are different types of mastectomy. A modified radical mastectomy removes the breast, the lining of the chest muscles and some of the lymph nodes in the underarm area. This procedure is used to treat early and local advanced breast cancer. A total mastectomy involves surgical removal of the breast but no other tissue or nodes.
•Hormone receptor status: Hormone receptor status indicates whether or not a breast cancer requires hormones to grow. Susan G. Komen® notes a significant number of hormone receptors on a breast cancer cell indicate it needs the hormone to grow.
•Family history: Family history refers to current and past health conditions of a given individual’s biological family members. Family history of breast cancer is considered a risk factor for the disease.
•Ki-67 Rate: Susan G. Komen® notes this is a common way to measure proliferation rate. The more cells the Ki-67 antibody attaches to in a given tissue sample, the more likely the tumor cells will grow and divide rapidly.
•Local treatment: This refers to treatment that focuses on removing cancer from areas local to the breast, including the breast itself as well as the chest wall and lymph nodes in the underarm area. These are just a handful of terms that women diagnosed with breast cancer and their family members can learn to better understand the disease and the various ways it’s treated. Additional terminology can be found at komen.org. — Metro Creative
treatments. Prioritize self-care
Breast cancer can take a lot out of a person. Trying to maintain some sense of normalcy can help. Consider gentle exercise, relaxation techniques and activities that bring a smile to your face. Remember to choose healthy foods and find ways to manage stress as much as possible. Be patient with yourself, as it can take time to adapt to a diagnosis and treatment.
Speak with your employer
Breast cancer can affect your ability to work. There likely will
be appointments with doctors and consultations with your care team. Looping your employer in is a smart idea. Many supervisors will be supportive of your needs. You also may want to speak with human resources about any services that could be available to you, or how you can allocate personal time off for your treatment and care. A breast cancer diagnosis can catch anyone off guard. Taking each step slowly and learning more can make the weeks ahead a little less apprehensive.
