Baxter continues progress to bring Dollar General to town
Rezone and new plat of survey approved on first reading by Baxter City Council
By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune
Progress is continuing to bring a Dollar General store to Baxter. During the October city council meeting, it was approved to rezone the property and approve the plat of survey on the corner of East Avenue and Highway F-17 West on the southeast side of the community. Following the approval of the Baxter Planning and Zoning Commission to rezone the property from R-2 High Density Residential to C-1 Commercial and the plat of survey submitted by the Overland Group, LLC, Baxter City Council took up the subject. During a public hearing, Overland Group attorney John Fatino
spoke in favor of the plat and noted both the city engineer and Jasper County gave their approval.
Citizens Brock and Robin Hansen raised concerns about stormwater calculations and requested a meeting with the engineers from the Overland Group, MSA Professional Services and Jasper County to review drainage data with more detail. Robin Hansen raised similar questions during the planning and zoning commission meeting where City Engineer Nichole Sungren with MSA Professional Services said that the storm-water design meets Iowa’s Statewide
‘You are special. Never stop believing that.’
Annie Jr.’ to hit the stage at Colfax-Mingo Jr./Sr. High Nov. 7 and 8
By Jamee A. Pierson
Jasper County Tribune
It’s only a few days away. The Colfax-Mingo Jr./Sr. High production of “Annie Jr.” will hit the stage at 7 p.m. Nov. 7 and 8 at the Colfax-Mingo Jr./Sr. High School auditorium.
“Productions like ‘Annie Jr.’ give Colfax-Mingo students a chance to grow in confidence, creativity and teamwork,” director Tyler Harper said. “The arts teach kids to communicate, problem-solve and express themselves — skills that last far beyond the stage.”
At the start of the year, Harper selected three productions for the students to choose from
Submitted Photo
Colfax-Mingo students look to shine on the stage during the production of
“Annie Jr.” Nov. 7 and 8.
that he know would work at the school. The kids spent a few weeks watching clips from the show and sharing their thoughts, excitements and boredoms before making a selection.
“Overall the students felt this was a great show for the community — especially their younger siblings,” Harper said.
Rehearsals started with 40 kids playing a part in making the production come to life. From acting on stage to make sure the music starts on cue and finding
the perfect lighting, everyone has an important part to play to make the show go off without a hitch.
“Rehearsal has been so much fun,” Harper said. “Many students that aren’t performing have helped our cast in learning their parts. We laugh a lot, but the students have crammed a lot of learning into a very short learning period. There hasn’t been a day go by that I haven’t seen a different student shine.”
Productions at Colfax-Min-
go can differ from other area schools because they involve students in grades 7 through 12. By having one show for the school, it gives students a great opportunity to learn from each other and make goals for themselves for the future.
“Because our musicals are 7-12, kids that normally don’t spend much time together spend time learning from each other,” Harper said. “The younger students spend time trying to reach the level of the older students. The older students work hard to pass on knowledge, but they make sure they keep developing skills to keep them ahead of the young ones.”
With opening night coming up soon, Harper is getting excited to see the kids shine on stage and show off all of their hard work.
“It is always a joyful experience when our audiences see the
OORAH! 250 YEARS OF MARINES
Jasper County veterans are celebrating the semiquincentennial of the U.S. Marine Corps on Nov. 10 at American Legion Post 111 in Newton
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
How do you spot a Marine? Well, if you’re a civilian in Jasper County, you may have to rely on them wearing their signature red T-shirts sporting the corps insignia, or work up the courage to shout “oorah!” in a crowded room, hoping the battle cry is returned. And it almost always is. For the retired Marines in Jasper County, they can take one look at someone and usually tell if they had served in the U.S. Marine Corps. They tell me there is just something about them that makes them stand out from other people. That sense of familiarity was developed from
their rigorous training and it hasn’t gone away. Marines can pick each other out from crowds by the way they sit or act or how they carry
themselves. It is like an aura only they can detect, and it derives from a shared experience of combat, basic training or the memorization
of the core values. It is with them forever, even after they have been discharged.
talent and abilities of our kids. I’m ready to see them shine,” Harper said. “My favorite part to every show is the closing song. You get to watch all these teenagers just belting their hearts out, living in the moment. No troubles. No worries. Just singing.” Performances of ‘Annie Jr.’ will be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 7 and Nov. 8 in the Colfax-Mingo Jr./ Sr. High School auditorium. Tickets are $5 and only available at the door.
“We’re so thankful for the incredible support from our parents and community in bringing ‘Annie Jr.’ to life. Whether through donations, meals for our cast, costume and set help or the generous gift of time, this show truly represents the spirit of Colfax-Mingo,” Harper said. “We hope the community will join us for an evening of music, laughter and joy as our students shine on stage.”
Ashley Hinson does not support ‘nuclear option’ to end government shutdown
Congresswoman and U.S. Senate candidate suggests bypassing filibuster would backfire
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Republican U.S. Senate candidate Ashley Hinson told reporters last week she does not support the “nuclear option” of removing the filibuster in order to reopen the federal government, say-
ing that doing so could allow Democrats to “pack the courts” and take more seats when the pendulum swings the other way. Des Moines Register’s Stephen Gruber-Miller recently reported that Hinson’s primary opponent for U.S. Senator of Iowa, Jim Carlin, said he would support the nuclear option to bypass the Senate filibuster and pass a government funding bill with a simple majority of 51 votes rather than a super majority of 60 votes.
Christopher Braunschweig/Jasper County Tribune
From left: Duane Wacha, Art Heikkila, Wesley Justus, Charlotte Ross, Mady McKim and Leo Yokiel showcase a table featuring the U.S. Marine Corps insignia at the American Legion Post 111 in Newton.
Hinson
Submitted Photo
Progress is moving forward to bring a Dollar General store to Baxter. The city council recently approved to rezone the space for commercial use.
Obituaries
Jerry Dean Briles Oct. 28, 2025
Jerry Dean Briles, age 77, passed away on October 28, 2025.
Jerry Dean Briles was born on October 23, 1948, the second of three boys to Herschel “Pete” and Wilma (Telfer) Briles. He married Sharon Kay Bell on August 31, 1968. They have 2 sons, Brian Dean (the late Stacey) and Kurt
Cheranne Rae Williams
Oct. 27, 2025
Cheranne Rae Williams, age 89, of Colfax, Iowa, passed away on Monday, October 27, 2025. A graveside service will be held for Cheranne at Colfax Cemetery, at 10:00 AM, on Friday, October 31, 2025. Memorials may be made out in her name to the Iowa
Marlys Doreen Schiermeister
Sept. 29, 2025
Marlys Doreen Schiermeister, 88, formerly of Mingo died on Monday, September 29, 2025, at Oak Pointe of Kearney in Kearney, Missouri. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, November 7, 2025, at the Wallace Family
Alan (Alicia), and four grandchildren, Joslin, Brooke, Brody, and Kinsley Briles. Jerry graduated from Colfax High School in 1966, and then he attended Northeast Missouri State in Kirksville, Missouri, for one year.
Jerry was a hard worker and a good provider for his family. He worked at the Colfax Livestock Sales Company for over 54 years, the Monroe Company for 1 ½ years, mowed many yards for 15 years, Wilson Auction Service in Colo, and worked in various positions and departments at Maytag for 31.3 years before retiring in June of 2000.
Jerry liked playing cribbage and pitch. He
also enjoyed attending both household and livestock auctions. He loved watching old game shows and westerns - he has seen every John Wayne movie many times over.
After retirement, he enjoyed reading a good mystery or suspenseful novel, working on word searches for hours at a time, and going on road trips around central Iowa. Those left to honor Jerry’s memory include
his loving wife of 57 years, Sharon, his two sons and daughter-in-law, his four grandchildren, his two brothers Jim (Judy) and Randy (Polly), many friends, his extended salebarn and Maytag families, and his “adopted son and daughter” Eric and Jenny Anderson.
A visitation at the Coburn Funeral Home in Colfax, Iowa, will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 1-4 PM
with family present. No funeral will be held per his request, but a private family burial will be held in Waveland Cemetery in Prairie City. In lieu of flowers, donations on Jerry’s behalf can be made to the PCM Food Pantry. Preceding Jerry in death were his parents, Pete and Wilma, his daughter-in-law Stacey, and many extended family members and friends.
Commission for the Blind, “524 Fourth Street, Des Moines, IA 50309,” and Park Centre in Newton, “500 1st St N, Newton, IA 50208.”
If you are unable to attend and wish to send a card, please address it to, “Attn: Cheranne Williams, Coburn Funeral
Funeral Home and Crematory. The family will greet friends with a lunch immediately following the service at the funeral home. Memorials to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa or the Mingo Fire Department may be left at the funeral home Marlys, the daughter of Everett and Vernice (Newcomer) Carlson, was born on June 16, 1937, in Driscoll, North Dakota. She graduated as Salutatorian of her high school class in Driscoll, where she also played basketball. She then attended business college in Bismarck. On August
Home, 24 W Howard St, Colfax, IA 50054.”
The daughter of Hubert and Mildred (Greene) Chalstrom, Cheranne was born in Fort Dodge, Iowa on February 20, 1936. While attending college in Des Moines, she met Owen Williams. They were united in marriage on December 23, 1956, in Fort Dodge. Together they raised four kids and called Colfax home in 1972. Cheranne worked
25, 1957, Marlys was united in marriage with Jerold “Jerry” Schiermeister in Driscoll. In 1961, they moved to Des Moines and a short time later to Baxter. Jerry and Marlys were blessed with four children, Greg, Lynette, DeeAnn, and Colette. They were great parents and raised their children to appreciate the value of hard work. Marlys served as a Girl Scout Leader for her daughters, helping them earn many patches. In 1974, they made their home in Mingo. Marlys was a homemaker while her children and grandchildren were young,
for Mid-American taking on different roles such as a dispatcher and a customer service representative.
In her free time, she loved to travel, taking trips throughout the years. She was always a crafty person. She would crochet towels, knit blankets, and find other activities to learn. She and Owen enjoyed spending time at the casino, slowly playing penny slots. Even if she wasn’t win-
except for a short time working at the Baxter Nursing Home. Later in life she became an insurance agent and then worked at the Post Office in Mingo, until her retirement in 2007.
Marlys was a member of the Eastern Star in Baxter, on the Mingo City Council, and served as Treasurer for the Bethany United Church of Christ in Baxter. She and Jerry loved to travel. She also enjoyed fishing, Tuesday morning bowling, gardening, and keeping a clean and orderly home.
Marlys is survived by
ning, she would happily sit and take in the scene. She frequently spent time walking through farmers markets and flea markets to see what they had to offer. The kids and their spouses could always count on a birthday cake from her every year. She’d order a special cake from Hy-Vee to help celebrate the day. Those left to honor her memory include her kids, Lynn (Kevin) Blake, Mike (Lori) Williams, Nancy
her children, Greg (Lisa) Schiermeister of Runnells, Lynette (Frank) Maher of Mingo, DeeAnn (Don) Van Dusseldorp of Colfax, and Colette (Merrill) Miller of Kearney, Missouri; grandchildren, Justin (JoLynn) Schiermeister, Ashley (Trevor) Gosselink, Jerold (Kirsten) Schiermeister, Amie (Jared) Vander Schel, Brandon (Theresa) Maher, Jonathan (Ashley) Van Dusseldrop, Samantha (Curtis) Jackson, Jamie Van Dusseldorp, Scott Van Dusseldorp (Alyssa Eilander), Derek (Hailey) Miller, and Dacia
(Toby) Williams, and Jon Williams; grandchildren, Ryan (Lilita) Woody, David (Kendra) Woody, Michael (Michelle) Dunn, Adam (Randi) Williams, and Nick (Ann) Williams; as well as 16 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild, and various cousins. Preceding her in death include her husband, Owen C. Williams; and her parents, Hubert and Mildred (Greene) Chalstrom.
Miller; her great-grandchildren, Stella, Talia, Gabe, Brayden, Bailey, Taylor (Logan), Kaylyn, Eben, Barrett, Delilah, Guinevere, Bromwell, Cooper, Dalton, Sawyer, Kay-Cee, and Ensley; her sister, Dorothy Foose of Florida; brothers-in-law, Donald Nicolay of North Dakota and Orville Oster of Florida; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jerry Schiermeister; brother, Dean Carlson; two sisters, LaVonne Carlson and Diane Oster; and sister-in-law, Doris Nicolay.
IMPACT accepting applications for Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program
IMPACT Community Action Partnership is taking applications for the 2025–26 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that began Oct. 1 and runs through April 30, 2026. Those eligible to apply in October include households with elderly members age 60 or older, or a family member who is disabled. Applications for all other income-eligible households will begin Nov. 1.
Families in Boone, Jasper, Marion, Polk or Warren counties interested in applying for LIHEAP should visit www.impactcap.org/energyassistance, to apply online or schedule an appointment by phone or in person. Families may also call 515-518-4770 to schedule an appointment or request an application to be mailed to them.
Applicants will need to provide some form of identification, a copy of their most recent heating and
JOURNEY STARTS HERE
Primary Health Care offers:
electric bill, social security or I-94 cards, and proof of gross income for all household members for either the past 30 days, the most recent 12 months or for the previous calendar year.
LIHEAP assistance is based on household income and size, dwelling, fuel type, and other factors. Eligibility income maximums for participation are established according to the Federal Poverty Levels (FPL). Annual income maximums for LIHEAP are set at 200 percent FPL and are listed below:
• Free testing for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis
• Free hepatitis C testing (if qualified)
• PrEP (HIV prevention medication)
• PEP (emergency medication for preventing HIV after exposure)
• Help connecting to care & treatment for people living with HIV
• Free condoms, safer sex supplies & supplies for reducing harms of substance use
To make an appointment:
Call 515-248-1500
Schedule online at: https://phctheproject.org/free-testing Also, look for Primary Health Care at community events!
7 - $97,300
8 - $108,300
*For households with more than eight members, add $11,000 for each additional member. **All income will be annualized.
The program is funded by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, Community Access and Eligibility Division, Community Action Agencies Unit, and has been established to help qualifying low-income Iowa homeowners and renters pay for a portion of their primary heating costs. This program is not designed to pay a household’s total energy cost. The program will provide supplemental assistance based on several factors. Those factors include total household income, household size, dwelling type, and type of heating fuel, among others.
Locations:
Des Moines
Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
PHC University Medical Clinic 1200 University Avenue, #120 Des Moines, IA
Ames
2nd Wednesday of the month
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
PHC Medical Dental Clinic 3510 W. Lincoln 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
REAP grant awarded to Baxter for Giese Park pond
Dredging work will allow fish to be added to the pond for first time
By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune
Flooding can cause a variety of problems for communities, and when Baxter was hit in 2024 the pond at Giese Park was negatively impacted. To address the issue, Baxter was awarded a $50,000 Resource Enhancement and Protection grant by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
“During the storm, the pond at Giese Park filled with sediment and reached its capacity to handle storm-water,” the city said in a press release.
In order to make the needed improvements,
Baxter Public Works Director Bryce Halter worked with city staff to request funding to dredge the pond and increase its capacity. The work was approved by FEMA in July 2025, which had previously declared the area a disaster.
This is the fifth project in Jasper County to be awarded a REAP grant. The dollars fully fund the dredging work.
Previously, the pond was too shallow to support fish, but the dredging work will create a healthier habitat and allow fishing at Giese Park for the first time.
“This will give local res -
Dollar General
continued from page 1
Urban Design and Specifications standards. Sungren once again answered general questions about the storm-water design and said that more detailed
Marines
continued from page 1
Leo Yokiel joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1961 and was discharged three years later. He recalled an experience from a month or so ago at the local Culver’s where a young man held the door open for him. When Yokiel thanked him, the man told him he would do that “for any of my brothers.”
idents a place to fish close to home, rather than having to travel outside the community,” the city said.
Additional funds left over from the dredging will be used towards establishing a walking trail around the pond. The trail was identified by residents as an important priority during the Community Visioning process.
“The city will continue to working toward longterm improvements at Giese Park to support both recreation and storm-water management, and we appreciate the community’s input and support along the way,” the city said.
hydrology data would need to be provided by the Overland Group’s hydrologist. The city council directed Baxter City Administrator Lucas Battanito to coordinate a meeting between all interested parties to discuss storm-water details.
The council approved the plat and rezone on their first readings and de -
To him, that shows just how connect Marines are to one another.
“Whether you know them or not, if they know that you are one, you’re a brother,” Yokiel said. “And you’re a brother forever.”
“Once a Marine, always a Marine,” said Wesley Justus, a Marine with more than 20 years experience in the corps and its reserve program. By Nov. 10, it is going to be real easy to find our local Marines, because it will mark the
U.S. Marine Corps’s 250th birthday. Jasper County Marines are preparing a birthday bash, of sorts, starting at 5 p.m. at the American Legion Post 111 in Newton. All local Marines are invited to attend the celebration. They’ll be enticed with cake and camaraderie and the pride of recognizing the longstanding traditions of the U.S. Marine Corps, which was formed Nov. 10, 1775 by Second Continental Congress. These events also allow Marines to pay tribute to their fallen brothers and sisters.
Mady McKim, who has spent a dozen years in the corps and its reserves, said the U.S. Marine Corps is all about traditions. Recruits are taught the history of the corps, and they’re expected to know it and remember it. The training taught them discipline, which inevitably carried over to their civilian lives in different ways.
cided to continue with the second and third readings at future city council meetings.
When to the project was first presented a few months ago, the city addressed how it would be funded and what the process would be to add the general store.
“The city is not funding or initiating
Charlotte Ross, who first joined the Army Reserves before enlisting in the Marine Corps, said the Marines have the best training. They have to, she said, because Marines are “the tip of the spear.” Justus pointed out it is clear that Marines, even after they are discharged, are a very proud people.
“We’re a very close group,” Yokiel said. “I was never in a combat situation, but people who have been protect the person on either side. They take care of one another. It’s always been that way … I think it’s something you keep forever. It’s part of you. I got out in 1964, but I still consider myself a Marine.”
Justus and Keith Thorpe helped kickstart the birthday celebrations at the American Legion. McKim said these events happen all over the country. Now entering its eighth or ninth year, the local celebration keeps veterans engaged with other vet-
this project,” city staff said. “The city’s role is to ensure the request is reviewed through the proper public process, as required by state law and the City of Baxter’s zoning ordinances.” Fatino said during the public hearing the project would bring a new retail business to Baxter and fill the gap from the recent grocery store closure.
erans. Thankfully, Marines have a lot to relate with other Marines.
Ross said, “It all starts from bootcamp. Everybody goes in and everyone is from everywhere. You don’t know the person next to you, but by the end of training not only do I know you and you and you — whether I know you or not — we all went through the same thing. We all came out of it. It builds you up inside.”
Justus is looking forward to another night of camaraderie this year.
“We stand beside each other and with each other and respect each other,” he said. “If somebody’s not respecting one of us, they’re not respecting all of us.
The nucleus that we’ve got, we’ve gained and we’re looking forward to that camaraderie. If somebody needs help, what can we do to figure it out.
“We do that for any branch also. But we’ll be there first.”
Hinson
continued from page 1
“So what I’m focused on is making sure we do get the government back open,” Hinson said to Newton News on Oct. 24 during a stop in Jasper County. “And we have had bipartisan support to do that, so I think we will get there. I think the Democrats are definitely playing politics with this shutdown.”
The congresswoman also pointed to recent comments made by House Minority Whip Katherine Clark of Massachusetts, who said government shutdowns are terrible and negatively affect families and that Democrats take the responsibility of a shutdown very seriously, but it is “one of the few leverage times we have.” Currently, Republicans hold a trifecta in the federal government with President Donald Trump in the White House and majorities in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. However, a lack of a supermajority allows the minority party in the Senate to force a filibuster.
Health care and the extension of expiring health insurance subsidies have been the primary focus for Democrats opposing the government spending bill. Hinson called Clark’s comments “absolutely disgusting” but added Democrats need to come to the table and they can reach agreement after the government is open.
“House Republicans and Republicans across the board care about the cost of healthcare,” Hinson said. “We want to make sure that it comes down. We want to make it affordable and accessible. And we can have that conversation if we get the government back open. And I think we can do that in a bipartisan way.”
Submitted Photo Baxter is working to create a walking trial around the pond at Giese Park. The pond will also get an upgrade due to a REAP grant to dredge the water, expand the size and add fish.
SNAP funding is running out
The Democrat Government Shutdown has been going on for nearly a month and continues to negatively affect Iowans and the entire country. Families are struggling to pay their bills, small businesses are losing critical revenue, and federal employees who work hard for our community are working without pay or are furloughed. Now with the continued shutdown, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is at risk of having a lack of funding. 267,000 Iowans, including over 100,000 children could lose SNAP because Democrats refuse to reopen the government. While the program’s ben-
Our District
U.S. Rep. Mariannette
Miller-Meeks
efits for October are being paid out, federal officials and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have said there will be no federal funding for SNAP in November if the shutdown does not end. This means many children could go without quality food because Democrats are willing to let American families suffer to gain political leverage.
Food banks and pantries across Iowa are already experiencing increased demand and they will not be able to meet the needs since more people are requiring assistance because of the shutdown. If SNAP funding runs out, food banks will be too overrun and unable to fill this gap
leaving countless Iowans hungry. This is unacceptable that Democrats are okay with their citizens suffering if it means they can get leverage in political games.
I have visited many food banks in Iowa and this past March I stopped by a local food pantry and the Iowa Food Bank Association where I saw firsthand the hard work that is put in and the amount of people they help. These food banks benefit so many families and make sure they have access to good, healthy food. Their work fighting hunger across our state is making a real impact, and it’s an honor to support their efforts.
WIC the supplemental program for Women, Infants, and Children may also lose funding if the Democrat Government Shutdown continues. This program provides food, nutrition education, and healthcare referrals for children up to age 5. These funds are
incredibly important to new mothers to be able to get formula, diapers, and food for their children. Democrats are putting these children’s lives at risk and are not caring about their quality of nutrition. I will continue to stand up for the funding of WIC and SNAP.
I voted to pass the Clean CR through the House of Representatives and have supported opening the government and continuing funding for these essential programs. I also introduced the Keep SNAP Funded Act of 2025 to ensure full funding for the SNAP Program during the government shutdown. This bill will let Congress appropriate funding to the SNAP program to resume their services, ensuring uninterrupted assistance.
The Senate Democrats must stop playing games and reopen the government so that we can ensure no child goes hungry and no parent worries about feeding their child.
As you know, me being a criminal defense lawyer, I’m always looking for ways to make my particular profession more profitable. This being the major reason why I’m always rooting for our state legislature to make more crimes and more severe punishments every time they are in session. Usually, they are quite active in doing so and I am thankful for that. What we now have is a great example of another method of increasing our business, hence the earning power of the criminal defense bar. President Trump is leading the way and must be given credit for this new effort — prosecuting our political rivals or people who displease us. Comey and Bolton are great examples. This effort must be studied and emulated by our own governor, Reynolds, and our own attorney general, Brenna Bird. When you think about it, it will be a whole new era in America — prosecuting political opponents and people who don’t please. We have the framework now of a police state that will be able to assist in this effort. We’ve always had secret police, but now they are even more secret — wearing masks and such. I can only applaud the efforts that are being made to increase the business of people in my particular profession, the criminal defense bar.
I know that I am in the minority here in that most of my colleagues think this effort to prosecute political rivals and people who don’t please as unamerican and fascist. But what the Hey! It’s good for business: I’m all for it. We’ve got thousands of crimes on the books both federal, state, county, city, etc. We should be using them to good purpose by putting more people in jail and otherwise making their lives miserable. They will need my services. I can see my business mushrooming. Congress and our state legislatures have been making more crimes every session for several centuries now. It’s time we begin using them.
You ask, how is this possible? It’s easy. Trump has shown the way. You call up your attorney general or local county attorney and say “Hey Ms. Attorney General, so-and-so said nasty things about me and I want him prosecuted. Find some crime you can charge him with and do so promptly.” As I said, with all the crimes that are on the books, it should be easy to find something to charge him with.
In Iowa, you don’t even need a grand jury to indict, you merely need to file a trial information and you can do this without having to convince a group of citizens to be accomplices in your efforts to use the criminal law for your own benefit. It is even easier than in the federal system where you need a grand jury, so let’s get with it shall we. Inflation is with us, it costs more money than ever to survive in a decent manner, and the more money we have, the better it is. I know this is a little self-serving, but oh well.
Richard E. H. Phelps II Mingo
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. THE FIRST AMENDMENT
Trump’s rural recession: Trade wars and health cuts effect
By Steve Corbin
The phrase “You gotta dance with the one who brought you to the party” is an early 20th century Southern dance etiquette saying. It is an idiom that means you should have gratitude to the people or things that helped you succeed.
Sixty-three percent of America’s 3,144 counties are predominantly rural and Donald Trump won 93 percent of those counties in 2024. Analyses show that rural counties have become increasingly solid Republican and Trump’s margin of victory within rural America reached a new high in the 2024 election.
We are at the 260th day of Trump’s 2.0 presidency. Polling by ActiVote reveals that Mr. Trump’s approval rating is rapidly declining with rural Americans (Newsweek, Sept. 5).
Let’s explore why rural-based Americans who danced with Trump in the 2024 election are not happy with his actions.
America’s agriculture market
Historians note Presidents’ Franklin D. Roosevelt (Dem.) and Richard Nixon (Rep.) were the backbone to make USA the global agriculture market leader. Evidence is replete America’s worldwide agribusiness sector prowess has been evaporating at a quick pace since Trump’s Jan. 20 inauguration (Brennan Center for Justice, Aug. 3).
Economic harm
The trade wars initiated by Mr. Trump have devastated export markets for American products like soybeans, corn, wheat, sorghum, cotton, pork, dairy and beef. For example, China retaliated against Trump by shifting its purchasing of soybeans from USA to Brazil and Argentina.
Five countries (China, Canada, Mexico, Turkey and Russia) and the 27-member European Union have imposed their own levies against America, causing higher prices on equipment, steel and fertilizer needed by farmers (Tax Foundation, Sept. 26). The trade retaliation will continue to harm small
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and medium-sized family farms and is trickling down to all of America.
Trump’s heightened immigration enforcement has led to raids on farms and processing plants, causing severe labor shortages in the ag labor sector. It’s sad that the Trump administration is not aware that of the 2.4 million farm workers, about 1.2 million are undocumented, who help plant, tend, harvest, pack, sort and prepare food-related products Americans depend upon (CBS News and https:// farmonaut.com).
USDA’s faux pas
Withholding USDA funding has created severe financial, operational and rural community impacts, forcing many farmers into economic distress, threatening farm viability and damaging rural economies (NRDC, Sept. 10).
USDA payment freezes and staffing cuts have stalled irrigation and rural housing projects, which has extended hardship beyond the farm into rural-based communities.
When the USDA reneged on signed contracts, most farmers lost their trust in USDA partnerships and government commitments (ibid).
Rural health and safety
The Trump 2.0 administration’s cut to rural health and telehealth programs have put healthcare access at risk for the 64 million people who live in USA’s rural areas.
Trump’s effort to repeal or weaken the Affordable Care Act will disproportionately cause rural Americans -- who rely heavily on Medicaid or individual markets -- to lose insurance.
Budget reductions of opioid and substance abuse response programs -- an acute problem in rural America –will have a devastating impact.
Erosion of community infrastructure
Mr. Trump’s reduced support for clean water infrastructure will directly affect rural public health. Similarly, reducing investments in rural broadband will put rural America further behind their urban and suburban peers.
Trump has imposed less funding for
rural roads, bridges and transit, which will impede economic growth and public safety.
Rural households -- who spend around 40 percent more on utilities as a share of their income -- will face greater hardship as a result of the Trump administration eliminating not only the low-income home energy assistance program but by reducing the weatherization assistance program.
Social safety nets
President Trump’s cuts to the SNAP program will dramatically make it worse for 9.8 million rural-based school children as their food insecurity rates are the highest in America (Feeding America, May 14). It appears Trump would rather bail out farmers ($46 billion during first presidency) than assist in feeding children (Forbes).
These examples collectively illustrate how Trump’s 2.0 actions – in only 260 days -- have directly worsened living conditions in rural America by reducing access to essential services, increasing financial insecurity, declining healthcare, eroding community infrastructure and increasing food insecurity for 9.8 million school children.
Trump’s actions are a slap-in-theface to about two-thirds of Americans who reside in a rural county, whereby 93 percent of them danced with him in the 2024 election. More broadly, Trump’s actions affect all Americans as everyone depends on ag products to exist.
This begs the question: when will our 535 Congressional delegates – regardless of their political persuasion –wake up to the economic mess Donald Trump and his cabinet acolytes have created and take action to save America from further domestic and international ruin? Without Congressional intervention, the next 1,200 days of Trump 2.0 is going to be quite cloudy and murky.
Steve Corbin is Professor Emeritus of Marketing, University of Northern Iowaandanon-paidfreelanceopinion editorandguestcolumnist
St. Nick’s Christmas Club applications available
Jasper County residents needing assistance this holiday season can pick up an application for St. Nick’s Christmas Club beginning at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 3, at the Newton YMCA, 1701 S. Eighth Ave. W.
Applicants must meet eligibility guidelines including children 18 and younger must be Jasper County residents, served by only one program for holiday help, and the custodial guardian must apply. All eligibility guidelines are included in the application packet and are posted on the Club facebook page. Application packets are limited and are available on a first come, first served basis. Only one application will be given per person. Completed applications must be turned in to the YMCA by 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9, or completed on-
line using the special QR code by 8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. Club volunteers will review all applications and partner with other non-profits offering holiday assistance to ensure eligibility. Those applying for multiple programs will not be eligible for St. Nick’s Christmas Club assistance. This is to ensure the Club can assist the most children in need. If accepted into the program,
children will receive new pants, shirt, socks, underwear (or diaper), and an item from their wish list. Families will also receive a food-only gift card purchased by the Club from local grocery stores. St. Nick’s Christmas Club was founded in 1988 by a group of friends seeing a need in Newton. The organization has grown to serve all of Jasper County communities with an all-volunteer group. The Club is a non-profit under the Jasper Community Foundation. Donations may be made by mailing c/o St. Nick’s Christmas Club, P.O. 162, Newton, Iowa 50208. For those wanting to adopt a family the annual adoption book will be released in late November. For more information, email newtonchristmasclub@gmail.com.
Jasper County EMA Director named 2025 Iowa Hazmat Technician of the Year
Jasper County Emergency Management Director Jamey A. Robinson has been named the Hazmat Technician of the Year by the Iowa Hazmat Task Force, a statewide honor recognizing individuals for outstanding leadership and contributions to hazardous materials response.
Robinson received the award for his work in developing and securing Propane Flare and Response Kits for hazmat teams across Iowa. What began as a local effort to equip his own team with specialized propane response tools evolved into a statewide initiative, ensuring every Iowa Hazmat Team now receives a kit at no cost, thanks to a partnership with the Iowa Propane Gas Association.
This effort has even begun to attract national attention, with discussions underway to expand the program so responders across the country can receive
Colfax Historical Society
The Oct. 20 meeting of the Colfax Historical Society was called to order at 7 p.m. by president Kevin Williams and he thanked everyone for attending. Members present were: BJ Williams, Karen Russell, Aaron Bartholmey, Steve and Cindy L. Van Dusseldorp, Don and Joyce Jessen, Larry and Charlet Daft, Stanley Daft, Peggy Dvorak, Kathy Mathews, Larry Hurto, Chris and Tran-
HOWARD ST. CHRISTIAN CHURCH
(Disciples of Christ) Pastor Josh Burns 101 N. Locust St., Colfax Cell - 515-779-3148
quillity Smith. Minutes of the Sept. 15 was read. Treasurer’s report was presented. The facility manager, Tranquillity Smith reported we have several weddings coming up and other types of rentals.
Election of 2026 Officers and three-year term members of the Board was held. President, Larry Daft, Vice President, Kevin Williams, Secretary, Peggy Dvorak, Treasurer, Aaron Bartholmey,
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 ser-
similar equipment and training to handle propane emergencies safely.
With more than 15 years of experience as a Hazmat Technician, Robinson previously built a county hazmat response team in another jurisdiction before taking on his current role in Jasper County. Today, he continues to work closely with the Newton Fire Department, which provides hazmat services for the county, focusing on training, readiness, and equipment to ensure responders are prepared when needed.
“The Propane Response Kits fill a critical gap that our teams have faced for years,” Robinson said. “To see it come full circle — from an idea at the local level to something benefiting every hazmat team in Iowa — is truly humbling. I’m honored to receive this recognition, but the real success is what it means for responder safety and statewide preparedness.”
The propane response training, held in conjunction with the Iowa Hazmat Task Force Symposium last week in Newton, brought together hazmat professionals from across the state to enhance skills and share best practices in propane emergency response.
Club News
Three-year term Board of Directors: Karen Russell, Kathy Mathews, Steve Van Dusseldorp. Peggy made the motion to approve all of the nominees, seconded by Cindy L. motion carried.
Kevin will be contacting Josh Williams again about the log cabin Eagle Scout project.
Joyce purchased a large piece of black granite from GMT in Ankeny for $90 and it will be engraved for another cost.
She will receive an invoice in six weeks.
An Election Day Soup Supper will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 4 in our Community Room from 4:30 to 7 p.m. We will have soup, crackers, veggies, dessert and drinks. There will be a free will donation. Committee in charge is Cindy L. and Peggy. Desserts will be donated by several volunteers to help.
Kevin talked to Judy Atwood and she has of-
Church Schedules
vice; 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
The church schedule is brought to you by Coburn FUNERAL HOMES Colfax-Prairie City-Monroe 515-674-3155 www.coburnfuneralhomes.com
Fall Decorating Contest
The Baxter Garden Club sponsored a Front Door Fall Decorating contest. Baxter residents were encouraged to decorate their front door by Oct. 20, when judging occurred.
First place winner was the Morphew-Rapps who won $100. Second place winner was the Pyles winning $75. Third place winner was the Bethards winning $50.
Jasper County receives funding for leadership training
The Iowa Rural Development Council (IRDC) announced the selection of 10 local leadership initiatives to receive funding for trainings that focus on skills and professional development. Jasper County was one of the 10 communities selected to receive a SPARK grant of up to $2,500.
The SPARK Leadership Grant Program is targeted toward rural communities who want to host soft skills-based leadership trainings. Funded by Alliant Energy, the program aims to strengthen leadership capacity and collaboration across rural Iowa.
“Alliant is proud to partner with the Iowa Rural Development Council to support leadership training around our state as we continue to live out our purpose of serving our customers and building stronger communities,” Dennis Jordan, Alliant Energy Director of Customer, Community and Economic Development, said.
“We were thrilled with the number of outstanding applications we received for this first round of SPARK Grants,” IRDC Board Chair Mark Reinig said. “The grant recipients will be holding trainings that, among other things, support that community’s vision for expanding local leadership and their ability to address existing gaps.”
The IRDC is a statewide public-private non-profit organization focused on rural vitality and local capacity that will sustain and grow Iowa’s small towns.
For more information contact director@iowardc.org.
fered us a safe, dreyman’s desk and other items.
Kevin will need help moving the safe.
Larry H. said there is a Christmas tree with lights for Peggy, Cindy L. and Steve to decorate at Jasper County Museum.
Kevin and Larry D. were at the Friday night football game when Joe Laws was inducted into the first Hall of Fame and his granddaughter Katie from Anamosa was in attendance to accept the
award. They also had literature on Joe Laws and asked people who were there to sign a petition.
The museum will be open the second Saturday of the month on Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon with Tranquillity and Rachel volunteering and from noon to 2 p.m. Peggy and Rachel will be volunteering. Admission is free.
The next meeting will be held on Monday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m.
FRIDAY, Nov. 14 - 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 - Today is Holy Communion, All Saint’s Day and the Church Charge Conference at 4 p.m.
HOPE ASSEMBLY OF GOD
126 E. Howard Rev. Paul Avery, pastor Church: 674-3700 hopeassemblyofgod@yahoo.com
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 - 9:30 a.m. Coffee Time; 10 a.m. Worship Time, in person or via YouTube Live at 1040 am
WEDNESDAY - 5:30pm W.O.W Youth Group with supper provided Visit mitchellvillechristianchurch. org and follow us on Facebook
Robinson
Career-best performance nets Hosbond top-20 finish at state meet
Wilkins gives Colfax-Mingo pair of top-40 tallies in FD
By Troy Hyde Sports Editor
FORT DODGE — Ashlynn
Hosbond was out of excuses. It was just time to go for it.
And the Tigerhawk sophomore posted a career-best time and finished 20th at the Iowa High School State Cross Country Championships on Nov. 1.
“I started to believe in myself and told myself I was capable of it,” Hosbond said. “I decided to just go for it and see what happens.”
Hosbond came into her second state cross country meet ranked No. 26. But she fared better than a pair of runners who edged her out throughout the season and came within 8 seconds of a state medal.
Colfax-Mingo senior Sullivan Wilkins joined Hosbond at Lakeside Municipal Golf Course inside Kennedy Park and finished 37th in his first state meet.
“It was a good experience especially after missing it by one spot last year,” Wilkins said. “I’m proud of how I did. I gave my all. It sucks though because I wanted to finish my career with a time under 17 minutes.”
There were 158 runners in the Class 1A girls’ 5K state race, and over half of the top 15 were seniors.
That’s where Hosbond hopes to be next year after moving up 60 spots from her first time on the state course.
Her 20th-place finish was clocked in a career-best 19 minutes, 50.5 seconds. That would
have earned her a top-15 finish in 2A.
“I want to get on the deck. I think that would be so cool,” Hosbond said. “I never imagined I’d be that close to the top 15 considering I was 82nd last year. It’s crazy to climb 60 spots in one year.”
Top-ranked Lili Denton of Council Bluffs St. Albert defended her title with a time of 17:56.6 and then committed to the University of Texas on Nov. 3.
Second-ranked Chloe Glosser of Pekin was the runner-up in 18:33.5.
Hosbond was less than 4 seconds behind conference rival Emmerson Jedlicka of North Mahaska but finished in front of No. 15 Jayden Peters of Collins-Maxwell and No. 20 Elizabeth Erickson of Colo-NESCO.
Erickson was faster than Hosbond at this year’s state qualifying meet, but Hosbond was able to use last year’s state experience to her advantage.
“I realized from last year that it’s not always going to be easy in the beginning. You just have to push yourself,” Hosbond said. “I need to keep putting in the work. I felt tired at the end today so more work and more mileage will help with that. I need to get in the weight room more, too.”
Wilkins competed in the state meet for the first time but put together an impressive final race, finishing 37th in the 1A boys’ state race with a time of 17:20.2.
There were 152 runners in the 1A boys’ 5K race and seven of the top 15 finishers were seniors.
South Winneshiek sophomore Hugh Conway won the individual state championship with a time of 15:50.7. He came into the state meet ranked No.
8 in 1A.
Top-ranked Hayden Thompson of Lake Mills was the runner-up in 16:02.7 and second-ranked Knute Rogne of
Lake Mills finished third in 16:03.4. A time of 16:49.6 was needed to earn one of the 15 state medals.
“I went out 10 seconds faster than normal,” Wilkins said. “That was a bit too hard. I’m just glad I got to experience it this year.”
Baxter’s Tuhn scores strong finish in first state meet
By Troy Hyde Sports Editor
FORT DODGE — When
Maddux Tuhn was asked why he made the switch from football to cross country after his freshman year, the Baxter sophomore gave a simple answer of “everyone else in my family did it.”
But when he had the chance to ask his oldest sister Elie Tuhn for advice about running at the state cross country meet, Maddux pivoted to her fiancee, Spencer Moon, who won the nationals 10K for Simpson College last year.
“He basically told me to stick behind someone and let them do the work for me,” Maddux Tuhn said.
Tuhn fared better than most non-ranked runners who compete at the state meet for the first time.
There are even some multiyear state qualifiers who haven’t finished as high as Tuhn did on Nov. 1 at the Iowa High School State Cross Country Championships.
Tuhn did not run a personal-best time, but he was 46th overall in the Class 1A boys’ 5K race at Lakeside Municipal Golf Course inside Kennedy Park.
He posted a time of 17 minutes, 30 seconds. The top 15 finishers in each race earn a
spot on the all-state deck. That 15th and final medal time was 16:49.6.
“For this environment, and a not super easy course, I thought he did a good job,” Baxter head cross country coach Ian Thomson said. “You never know what to expect.
“He’s barely ran cross country so I think this is just the beginning for him. I think we have a shot to get three medalists next year and he’s one of them.”
The biggest challenge for first timers at the state cross country meet is trying not to get out too fast. It’s a fast race up front and it’s easy to get caught up in that pace.
Tuhn didn’t think he got out fast enough, though, and Thomson agreed with him.
“He was in 60th at the first quarter mile so I would have liked to see him get out a little faster,” Thomson said.
There were 152 runners in the 1A boys’ state race. Tuhn was in the top 30 percent of the field, and seven of the top 15 finishers were seniors.
South Winneshiek sophomore Hugh Conway won the individual state championship with a time of 15:50.7. He came into the state meet ranked No. 8 in 1A.
Top-ranked Hayden Thompson of Lake Mills was the runner-up in 16:02.7 and sec-
ond-ranked Knute Rogne of Lake Mills finished third in 16:03.4.
Not even a 2-3 finish could land No. 2 Lake Mills a state championship as it placed second with 69 points.
Class 1A No. 1 Oakland Riverside won the championship with 54 points. Third-ranked Ankeny Christian Academy placed third with 124.
With only one senior on this year’s varsity roster, Thomson anticipates a big season from the Bolts in 2026.
“Looking at the top guys we have back, I think we have a shot to win it next year,” Thomson said. “Max Handorf should be top five, and we think Brecken (Fisher) and (Tuhn) take a step forward, too. We have a lot of guys back from this year and two strong eighth graders coming in who can score, too.”
Thomson expects Tuhn to knock off 30-40 seconds from his time this year. The Baxter sophomore expects to surprise a lot of people next fall, too.
“It was a good experience this year,” Tuhn said. “It felt more real when I got into the start area. The nerves kicked in.
“I need to get in more miles. The most miles this summer I did at one time was five. I went to a few open runs in the offseason, but I should have done more for sure.”
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune Baxter sophomore Maddux Tuhn, right, runs in the state cross country meet in Fort Dodge on Nov. 1. Tuhn placed 46th in his first state experience.
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Top: Colfax-Mingo sophomore Ashlynn Hosbond (820) posted a career-best time and placed 20th in the Class 1A girls’ 5K race at the state cross country meet in Fort Dodge on Nov. 1. Left: Colfax-Mingo senior Sullivan Wilkins (995) competed in the state cross country meet for the first time on Nov. 1. He placed 37th in the Class 1A boys’ 5K race in Fort Dodge.
2025 Fall Sports Rewind
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
The fall sports seasons at Baxter and Colfax-Mingo wrapped up this past weekend at the state cross country meet. Clockwise from upper left: Baxter’s Ruger Kincaid runs the ball against Twin Cedars earlier this season. The Bolts finished 3-5 this fall; Baxter’s Denver Sulzle led the Bolts volleyball team with 52 kills and 11 blocks. Baxter was 7-20 this fall; Baxter’s Lincoln Russell and Colfax-Mingo’s Willie Fitzgerald, left, run in a cross country meet earlier this season; Colfax-Mingo’s Dakota Allen (9) and Britney Keeney helped the Tigerhawk volleyball team to a 12-16 record. Keeney led the squad with 165 kills and 51 blocks and added 36 aces; Colfax-Mingo’s Chase Trotter, right, rushed for 312 yards, gained 168 yards on 11 catches and scored four TDs for the Tigerhawk football team. Colfax-Mingo finished its season 0-8; Colfax-Mingo’s Jessica Gibson (38), Sahara Buenrostro (37) and Lilyan Hadsall compete in the team’s home cross country meet earlier this season.
