State audit finds former Baxter officials misused $90K of public funds
Special investigation report shows more than $75K was improperly disbursed
By Christopher
The State Auditor’s Office found more than $90,000 was misused by former City of Baxter employees, all of which resigned from their posts back in early 2024. Released today was a report of the
special investigation, which was requested by city officials as a result of concerns regarding certain financial transactions processed by former employees William Daggett, the former police chief; Katie Wilson, the former city clerk; and Randi Gliem, the
Election 2025
Unofficial results from the 2025 Baxter city government election have Daniel Kunkel taking the mayoral race over fellow candidate Stephen C. Smith.
Lindsay Bethards, Joel Schabilion and Michael Churchill were the topthree candidates for the three open Baxter City Council seats in the Nov. 4 election.
The mayoral race was decided by only six votes, with Kunkel receiving 160 and Smith 154 votes. There were also nine write-in votes.
For Baxter City Council, Bethards
received the most votes with 238 votes, followed by Schabilion with 193 votes and Churchhill with 155 votes. Candidates Tootie Samson received 148 votes while Brad Hier tallied 121 votes. There were 12 write-in votes.
In Colfax, Brad Magg and Karla Jones retained their city council seats, both having run unopposed.
Robert Perry will serve as the mayor of Mingo while Melanie-Goaley-Pleggenkuhle was the sole city council candidate for the three open seats. There were 83 write in votes for the open city council seats, as well.
For school board, Cory Robinson and Zach Morphew-Rapp were elect-
Penalties still pending for Baxter officials accused of improperly disbursing funds
State auditor suggests actions affect public trust and reputation of city officials
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Editor’s note: The following is one of a series of updates regarding the findings of an investigation into misused fundings by former City of Baxter officials. Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand said it will be up to other entities — most likely the sheriff’s office and county attorney’s office — to decide whether penalties will be imposed on the three former City of Baxter officials accused of misusing more than $90,000 in public funds, about $75,000 of which
City and school board election results in for Colfax, Mingo and Baxter
ed in Baxter after running uncontested. Four seats that were on the ballot in Colfax-Mingo School Board will be filled by Chet Williams, Kendra Perry, Patrick Utz and Caitlin Otto who all ran unopposed.
The PPEL, or a physical plant and equipment levy tax, passed for the Baxter School District with 73.59 percent approval. PPEL is not to exceed 67 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation of the taxable property within the Baxter School District and can be used to purchase and improving grounds, constructing schoolhouses or buildings and opening roads to schoolhouses or buildings, purchase buildings,
purchase, lease or lease-purchase of technology and equipment, pay debts contracted for the erection or construction of schoolhouses or buildings, not including interest on bonds, procure or acquisition of libraries, repairing, remodeling, reconstructing, improving or expanding the schoolhouses or buildings and additions to existing schoolhouses, expenditures for energy conservation, renting facilities under Iowa Code Chapter 28E, purchasing transportation equipment for transporting students, lease purchase option agreements for school buildings or equipment, or purchasing equipment authorized by law.
Rob Sand discusses rural healthcare issues, OBGYN challenges at roundtable
State Auditor Rob Sand, a Democratic gubernatorial candidate, speaks with participants in a roundtable on Nov. 5 at the E.J.H. Beard Administration Center in Newton.
Shaw Media sells Newton News properties to J. Louie Mullen of Eastern Iowa Publications
Local newspaper maintains all jobs and services under new ownership
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
The Newton News has been purchased by a Wyoming publisher who owns more than 40 weekly newspapers across the country, including a few in Iowa.
Shaw Media, a publisher with news products in Iowa and Illinois, had owned Newton News since 1944. The sale was finalized on Nov. 4, and it includes the products made by Newton News, PCM Explorer, Jasper County Tribune and the Jasper County Advertiser. All staff
members were able to maintain employment.
J. Louie Mullen, owner of Blackbird, LLC and Eastern Iowa Publications, has been reported to have a “hands-off” style to ownership, telling the Editor & Publisher in November 2022 that he is there more for support, does not micromanage staff and gives management an incredible amount of leeway. Mullen was introduced to the newspaper industry at a young age. His parents had him and his
Gubernatorial candidate met with providers affected by Newton pausing its labor and delivery services
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand learned something trouble from healthcare providers at a recent roundtable. He learned there is only one hospital delivering babies in the area between Waterloo and Pella and between Des Moines and Iowa City. Up until a
year ago there were two.
Newton Clinic and MercyOne Newton Medical Center paused all labor and delivery services in October 2024, leaving many Iowans in the Jasper County area and beyond to turn to UnityPoint Health Grinnell Regional Medical Center. Sand also learned there are only three doctors delivering babies in Grin-
nell.
Dr. Abby Flannagan of Grinnell Regional Medical Center told Sand her hospital is feeling the effects of the Newton’s loss of services. When Flannagan was first hired about three years ago, doctors had delivered more than 100 babies every year; now, they are
ANNIE SHINES AT C-M
Christopher Braunschweig/Jasper County Tribune
Jamee A. Pierson/ Jasper County Tribune The cast of “Annie Jr.” along with a four-legged friend, light up the stage with show-stopping performances Nov. 7 and 8.
Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune
Obituaries
William L. Hansen
Nov. 5, 2025
William L. “Bill” Hansen, age 90, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on November 5, 2025, at home while surrounded by his loving family. To honor Bill’s life, a Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the Howard Street Christian Church, 101 N. Locust St, in Colfax, IA, with Pastor Josh Burns officiating. Burial will be in the McKeever Cemetery in Colfax,
IA, where full military honors will be accorded. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bill’s family. Bill was born on October 15, 1935, in Colfax, IA, a son to Lester W. and Marjory M. (Thomas) Hansen. He was a man’s man who understood the value of an honest day’s work, as well as the importance of a positive and productive use of the free-time that life presents. Bill honorably served his country with the U.S. Marine Corps. He was able to travel the world and became involved in many projects which protected the ideals of freedom he held so dearly. Bill spent his working career in the construction trades primarily and always enjoyed driving
around town looking at all of the buildings he was directly involved with. He spent many years with Conlon Construction, but ventured out into a little concrete and tree service work here and there also. In his later years, Bill would joyfully invest countless hours chasing down the latest acquisitions to add to his antiques collection. Bill’s work ethic was strong and sturdy throughout his entire life and he always took great pride in each endeavor he faced.
Now, the side of Bill where his heart was clearly seen was surely in his off hours. He was a faithful volunteer and advocate for those less fortunate. Whether he was bringing food, clothes, tents and blankets to the homeless down by the Des Moines
River, or gathering toys for the kids in Colfax who needed a little boost for a nice Christmas in their homes, or simply volunteering and sitting on the board for the Colfax Historical Society; Bill was in his happy place when others’ lives were directly impacted by his efforts. His devotion to his church community was never in question either as his love for his Christian brothers and sisters was continually on display.
It’s difficult to imagine what the world would look like without all that Bill did throughout his 90 years among us. There are surely some openings today in the world of serving others that will need to be filled and hopefully with the same generous and gracious spirit that
Bill always brought to the table. Thank you, Bill, for giving more than you took, for leaving the world around you in better shape than you found it, and for leading by example almost every day of your life. May the Lord bless and keep you safe in His loving arms until we all meet again. Those left to cherish the memory of Bill include his five children, Lane (Susan) Hansen, Iowa City, IA, Doris (Randy) Johnson, Marshalltown, IA, Michelle (Randy) Post, Dubuque, IA, David (Arlene) Hansen, Mason City, IA, and Julie (Dan) Hildebrand, Hopkinton, IA,; his 14 grandchildren; his 3 great-grandchildren; his siblings, James Hansen, Marengo, IA, Wanda Keenan, Grinnell, IA,
Edward “Gene” Hansen, Iowa City, Iowa, and Mary Louise Mohler, Newton, IA; along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Pat Feldman; his brother, Richard Hansen; his sisters-in-law, Norma Hansen, Gladys Hansen, Melinda Hansen and Elaine Hansen; and his brothers-in-law, Paul Hardenbrook and Dan Mohler.
Bill’s family would like to thank the staff at Hospice of Dubuque and the oncology and radiation departments at Mercy One Cancer Center for their professional and compassionate care.
Online condolences may be shared with Bill’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com.
Turning challenge into opportunity: Iowa communities unite amid SNAP disruption
A growing number of Iowans are struggling to put food on the table. Today, nearly 1 in 10 Iowa households are food insecure, according to America’s Health Rankings, and Feeding America states that every county in the state has seen an increase since 2023.The impact of hunger can be life-changing. When families don’t have reliable access to safe, nutritious food, they’re often forced to make tough choices, such as deciding between buying groceries or paying for medical care. For adults living with chronic health conditions, this can mean skipping meals or medications, which may lead to serious complications. Food and nutrition insecurity are also linked to conditions like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and obesity.
Food insecurity and chronic health conditions go hand in hand. According to Feeding America, more than half of the households they serve have at least one member with high blood pres sure, and over one-third include someone living with diabetes. Children in food-insecure homes are more likely to strug
gle in school and face health challenges, while affected families are at greater risk for psychological and behavioral stress. The USDA Economic Research Service highlights that the cost of food is the most common barrier to healthy eating for people using SNAP benefits. When those benefits are disrupted, the challenges grow, but so does the opportunity. This is a moment for communities to come together, support one another, and build stronger, more resilient local food systems.
turn to charitable food networks for support. That resilience can guide us now. By working together, we can ensure that every Iowan has access to nutritious food, even during uncertainty.
“Getting food to people is essential, and it’s also important to think about variety and quality,” said Lyndi Buckingham-Schutt, assistant professor with Iowa State University. “Nutritious options help families thrive, not just survive.”
Ideas to Address the Challenge
quickly to increased need. For example, the Hy-Vee in Muscatine has set up a donation station and will ask customers if they’d like to donate $5 toward food insecurity. Hy-Vee will also provide leftover food to local pantries—an approach that other retailers and organizations can replicate.
2. Check In on Your Neighbors Food insecurity often goes unseen. A simple phone call or visit can make a world of difference. If you know someone who relies on SNAP, offer support or connect them with local resources.
3. Healthy Food Pantry Donations Supporting food pantries with nutritious, shelf-stable items is critical. According to the ISU Healthy Food Pantry Donation Guide, the most helpful items include:
• Peanut butter
• Whole grain pasta
• Brown rice
• Canned beans (no added salt)
• Canned fruits in 100% juice
• Canned vegetables
Non-food essentials are also in high demand:
• Diapers
• Toilet paper
• Feminine hygiene products
• Pet food
• Toiletries
Donation Tips:
• Choose pop-top cans for easier access.
• Avoid expired, damaged or homemade items.
• Call your local pantry to ask what they need most.
• Monetary donations and volunteering are powerful ways to help. Find your local pantry: Iowa Food Bank Association
4. Use Spend Smart. Eat Smart.
The Spend Smart. Eat Smart. website and app help families make the most of their food dollars with recipes, shopping tips, how-to videos, and meal planning tools. Visit the SpendSmart. Eat Smart. website to learn more.
During the pandemic, we learned that in times of crisis, communities
1. Pop-Up Pantry Kits and Donation Stations
Pop-up pantries and donation sites allow communities to respond
Primary Health Care offers:
• Free hepatitis C testing (if qualified)
• PrEP (HIV prevention medication)
• Canned fish/poultry
“Spend Smart. Eat Smart. is designed to help families eat well on a budget,” said Christine Hradek, health and human sciences state specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “It’s a practical resource for anyone navigating tight food budgets.”
5. Community Meals
Many places of worship, restaurants and community organizations are offering free or low-cost meals while SNAP funding is unavailable. For adults age 60 and older—and their caregivers—the Iowa Congregate Nutrition Program (often called senior lunch programs) offers nutritious meals, social connection and access to helpful support services. “Whether you’re an older adult, a family in need, or someone facing a temporary hardship, these programs are here to help you stay nourished and supported,” said Sarah Francis, professor at Iowa State. To find a meal site near you, visit the Iowa Health and Human Services website. Together, We Can Make a Difference
“This is more than a challenge; it’s a chance to strengthen community bonds and ensure every Iowan has access to healthy food. Whether through donations, volunteering or simply checking in on a neighbor, every action counts as Iowans navigate the disruption in SNAP benefits,” said Buckingham-Schutt.
• Free testing for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis
• 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
Also, look for Primary Health Care at community events!
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
Colfax-Mingo High School students perform ‘Annie Jr.’
Funds
Continued from page 1
former EMS coordinator.
The investigation — which covered the time period between July 1, 2021 and Feb. 29, 2024 — identified more than $75,000 of improper disbursements, more than $11,000 of unsupported disbursements and more than $3,800 of unbilled, uncollected and over-collected utility billings.
The report noted it was not possible to determine if additional amounts were improperly disbursed because city records were not suffi-
ciently maintained. State Auditor Rob Sand reported the $75,073.73 of improper disbursements identified in the investigation include:
• $51,275.62 of improper payroll costs and excess comp time payments, respectively, paid to Daggett;
• $3,509.55 of improper payroll costs and excess comp time payments, respectively, paid to Wilson;
• $1,461.09 of improper payroll costs and excess vacation balance payout, respectively, paid to Gliem;
• $1,776.99 of improper payroll to EMS volun-
Penalties
Continued from page 1
was deemed improper.
While there are presently no charges lobbed against former police chief William Daggett, former city clerk Katie Wilson and former EMS coordinator Randi Gliem, Sand said in a press conference earlier this morning that one of the penalties of an investigation like this is related to public trust.
“This is an important thing that you want to do well,” Sand said. “There’s a penalty in terms of reputation. Legally speaking, it’s up to other entities to decide whether or not any other actions are filed. But I’d say it’s mostly trust and reputation that keep people trying to do the best job that they can.”
Sand
Continued from page 1
expected to deliver more than 300 babies by the end of 2025. In Newton, staff were delivering upwards of 190 babies per year. By the time the services were paused, the hospital was delivering an average of around 100 babies per year. However, rural healthcare issues extend beyond the lack
teers;
• $4,050.00 of improper payments to a former water affidavit operator;
• $10,475.05 of improper disbursements to vendors and cash withdrawals;
• $2,037.66 of improper purchases made with the city’s VISA credit card, late fees, and interest; and
• $487.77 of improper disbursements to vendors for police department operations.
The $11,294.57 of unsupported disbursements are for transactions for which the city could not provide supporting documenta-
Newton News previously reported an investigation into Baxter’s finances was requested by city officials as a result of concerns regarding certain financial transactions processed by former employees. The investigation looked into the time periods between July 1, 2021 and Feb. 29, 2024.
The audit identified more than $75,000 of improper disbursements, about $51,000 of which was attributed to improper payroll costs and excess comp time to Daggett. It also found more than $11,000 of unsupported disbursements and more than $3,800 of unbilled, uncollected and over-collected utility billings.
“We also saw purchases on the city’s credit card for personal items and items that were purchased allegedly for city use but that the city no longer possesses,” Sand said during the
or removal of vital services.
Flannagan noted residency spots just aren’t there.
“It’s not that we don’t have people that want to do this job — because there is — it’s we don’t have residency spots,” she said. “We don’t have anyone to train. We don’t have anyone to pay them. It is only going to get worse because these older generations are going to retire and there’s no one coming up to replace them.”
tion, including purchases made with the city’s credit card, purchases from vendors, reimbursements issued to the former librarian and reimbursements issued to Wilson.
The $3,814.88 of unbilled, uncollected and over-collected utility billings derived from $2,851.91 of utility deposits not properly returned to certain customers, $565.47 of utility penalties and $397.50 of non-sufficient funds fees which should have been applied to account but were not.
It was recommended by the state auditor that city officials implement
procedures to ensure the city’s internal controls are strengthened, including segregation of duties, performing utility reconciliations, performing independent review of bank statements and ensuring all disbursements are properly supported and paid.
So far, no criminal charges have been issued against Daggett, Wilson or Glib.
Jasper County Sheriff Brad Shutts said in a statement on Nov. 6 that his office acknowledges the release of the report and is aware of its findings. Due to the ongoing investigation and related legal considerations,
Nov. 6 press conference, which was live streamed but a number of news stations.
Before his office conducted its audit, Sand said the city carried through its own internal investigation. Sand said just a day before meeting with city officials to review those internal findings, Gliem resigned and then 10 days later Daggett and Wilson resigned from their posts.
Sand’s recommended small towns remember the phrase “trust but verify.”
“We want to be looking at how tax dollars are getting spent,” Sand said. “And when we see people that we trust and that we believe they’re doing the right thing we want them to be led not into temptation. And the way that we do that is making sure that they know that we are looking at what they are doing.”
Flannagan and her wife both practice medicine in Grinnell. When her wife finally started her family practice, two people retired and two people left. Suddenly, she was the only family medicine doctor in town. Flannagan said her wife took on 800 to 900 patients for an entire year because there was no help.
“When I was practicing in Des Moines I had every resource available to me … Here I have no one,” Flannagan
Ownership
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Shutts said the county sheriff’s office will not be providing any additional comments at this time.
Baxter Mayor Doug Bishop provided Newton News with a comment from the city: “The audit report has been released by the State Auditor’s Office. The link is available to the public. This is an ongoing criminal investigation being handled by DCI and County Attorney’s Office. We will defer all questions to them. The City of Baxter will have no further comments at this time.” Newton News will continue to publish updates regarding the report.
Reporters asked Sand if there was an attempt to hide the misused funds.
“You don’t necessarily have to make much of an attempt to hide when you don’t have very many people looking,” he said.
Sand would not say directly if the results of the investigation show malicious intent or was simply bad bookkeeping.
But he pointed to an allegation against Daggett in the report.
“He was supposed to be calling in when he was on duty so that dispatch would know that he’s available,” Sand said. “And there was a pretty wide distinction between when his time card said he was actually on duty — or his time sheets I should say — versus when he actually called in to say he was on duty.
said. “I’m lucky if even half of my patients qualify for WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) or can even figure out how to get it done without some sort of help.”
Listening to the pressures faced by health care providers like Flannagan helped Sand to reflect on the idea of how he wants to make sure Iowa is a more welcoming state. At the end of the day, Sand said a
vast majority of Iowans want someone there to deliver their babies.
“We were talking here to a female doctor who talked about her wife. And so who do we want to have in Iowa? My answer is: everybody … I think it’s important we not just talk about being a welcoming Iowa, but actually quit with the culture wars and just be focused on actually solving real problems for people.”
Purchasing the Newton paper and its accompanying weeklies is as much of a personal choice as it is a business choice for Mullen.
brothers work as paper boys for the Sioux City Journal. His experience with news extended further when his father became publisher of a newspaper in Wyoming. Soon, even Mullen was called on to write stories.
“I’ve been coming to Newton since before I can remember,” he said. “I have family here, so it was a real treat to be given the opportunity to purchase the paper.”
When seeking out new opportunities, Mullen first looks at the community itself.
“I always try to find independent communities when I’m looking at an opportunity. The community needs to have a vibrant school, medical and business mix,” he said. “Your paper is just a reflection of your community and personality. Newton and Jasper County deserve to have that in perpetuity.”
Carrie Vander Weerdt, general manager of the Newton News, said, “I’m excited for the opportunities that this new ownership brings. I’m looking forward to the possibilities ahead, and I’m ready to work as a team to take our papers to the next level.”
Jamee A. Pierson, editor of the Newton News, said, “I am excited for this new chapter in the Newton News story. We will continue to strive to bring the best product to our readers and be a trusted source for all community members.”
Jamee A. Pierson/Jasper County Tribune
It’s spooky season and old haunts are returning from beyond the grave. There’s no reason to fear this zombie apocalypse, however, because it’s that time of the year when boarded-up businesses are coming back to life as Spirit Halloween stores. Spirit Halloween’s successful “body-snatching” business model scares up a haunting idea for reviving the government’s graveyard of lifeless real estate.
It is no secret that federal office buildings are largely empty. In fact, back in 2023, I exposed that the Department of
Housing and Urban Development and the Social Security Administration used just 7 percent of their office space. While they are the worst offenders, they are not alone. More than half of the space inside the headquarters of nearly every federal agency has gone unused for years. One of the main issues was egregious telework abuse by Biden’s bureaucrats where as little as 6 percent of telework eligible individuals actually showed up to work five days a week. Despite President Trump calling the federal employees back to work, many government offices are still ghost towns. More than half of the space inside the headquarters of nearly every agency has gone unused for years, with 7,697 government buildings completely vacant. Another 2,265 are partially empty with just a skeleton
staff. Deserted and left in a state of disrepair for years, many of these buildings have been condemned to a fate worse than death. One is described as a “roach-infested mold dungeon.” Bugs were crawling out of faucets and creeping across the floor at another. Others are literal death traps. The drinking water in many buildings is a deadly potion of toxic metals and biohazards.
Renovations and upgrades to make the horrifying offices habitable again would cost taxpayers— prepare yourself for a jump scare—$370 billion!
Yes folks, that’s “BILLION” with a B.
That’s not all. Maintaining these office spaces is quite costly to taxpayers. Every year, Washington pays out more than $81 million. Instead of wasting billions of dollars, let’s sell off these haunted houses that are unused and unneeded to businesses who can breathe new life into them. That trick would be a real treat for taxpayers because it would both reduce costs and bring in billions of dollars from monstrous sales. It’s an idea only
a zombie wouldn’t like since it’s such a no-brainer.
One of the main hurdles to making this reality has been the entrenched bureaucracy that has created red tape and a maze of regulations designed to frustrate, delay, and derail any efforts.
I am introducing the Disposing of Inactive Structures and Properties by Offering for Sale And Lease (DISPOSAL) Act to immediately auction off six specific government buildings and fast track the sale of many other unneeded and underutilized properties by undoing regulatory hurdles that deep-state bureaucrats have weaponized to delay past efforts.
Congress should embrace the Halloween spirit by passing this bill and let the unfurling of Spirit Halloween banners begin!
Potential buyers should act before these deals vanish like a ghost.
Joni Ernst, a native of Red Oak and acombatveteran,representsIowainthe United States Senate.
Veterans Day is coming up in November, and this day provides a special time to honor and recognize all veterans for their service and the families for supporting their service members.
Jasper County RSVP is planning two events in November to honor veterans of Jasper County and would like to get the word out.
First, we are hosting a luncheon for all Jasper County women veterans on Wednesday, Nov. 12 at 11:30 a.m. upstairs in the DMACC Conference room. We are looking forward to honoring the women in Jasper County who have served in any branch of the military. There will be lunch, a guest speaker, and fellowship for all. We envision this as a time to celebrate our female veterans and help connect them to other women who have served.
Second, we are hosting the second annual Stars and Stripes Breakfast on Thursday, Nov. 13 at 9 a.m. am with doors opening at 8:30 a.m. This event is also upstairs in the DMACC main conference room. There will be 15 resource tables around the room and the pledge, a prayer, and opening remarks will begin at 9 a.m. We are grateful to the Bret and Amy Doerring family for sponsoring this event. All Jasper County veterans and a family member are invited to attend. In addition, all RSVP members are invited to this event as well.
Please call the Iowa State Extension Office for either event to let us know you are coming and how many will be attending: 641-792-6433. We look forward to seeing everyone and celebrating our Jasper County Veterans! Sarah Patterson Newton
From service to civic engagement: Honoring Iowa veterans today and every day
By Paul D. Pate Iowa Secretary of State
This November, we proudly observe Military Family Appreciation Month and Veterans Day, two opportunities to honor the courage and sacrifice of Iowa’s brave military members and their families.
Veterans Day recognizes the dedication and sacrifice of our nation’s brave men and women who put it all on the line to maintain our freedom and peace. What began as Armistice Day, more than a century ago, paying tribute to those who fought in World War I, has endured and evolved into a day that pays homage to current military members and veterans of all wars.
The first Armistice Day was proclaimed on Nov. 11, 1919 by then-President Woodrow Wilson. “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the council of nations...” It was recognized with parades, public rec-
By Juan Garcia Iowa Student Loan Liquidity Corporation board member
If your family has a current or future college student, this is a great time to look for scholarships that will help offset the cost of an education. Scholarships are considered “gift aid,” meaning that they do not need to be repaid later. Some are one-time awards that can be used while a family’s college savings continues to grow; others
ognitions, and suspension of business. I am honored to have descended from several brave individuals who gave their all to defend this nation. From fighting in the Ohio Infantry during the Civil War, serving in Cuba during the Spanish American War, and defending democracy and freedom in the Army during World War II, I could not be prouder to claim them as family.
And many of my fellow Iowans have descended from the strong men and women who have stepped up to serve our great nation. Iowa has a history of stepping up. At least 41 veterans of the Revolution are buried in Iowa. More than 1,000 Iowans bore arms in the Mexican War, 76,000 in the Civil War, and 5,600 in the Spanish-American War. In World War I and World War II, over 375,000 served. We saw 85,000 serve in the Korean War, 115,000 in the Vietnam War, 3,000 in the Persian Gulf War. And more recently, more than 3,000 brave Iowa men and women served in Operation Desert Storm and around 20,000 Iowans bore arms in the War on Terrorism. Currently, Iowa has nearly 2,000 Iowa National Guard and 1,800 Iowa Reserves members deployed, actively serving our nation. Our thoughts
are renewable as long as the student remains eligible. While we hear a lot about athletic scholarships or awards for high academic achievement, no student should overlook the possibility of earning some scholarships. Many different types of organizations offer scholarships, so casting a wide net will help students locate the opportunities they are most eligible for. Here are some tips for finding and applying for scholarships: Use free scholarship aggregator sites online. There is no need to pay for a service with so many free tools available. Step 1 Scholarship Search is a new site that offers free searches based on a wide assortment of criteria. Students, parents and educators may create a profile to customize, save and
share searches. Use school and community resources. The school counselor’s office generally has a list of local scholarships. Parents’ employers, civic organizations, area businesses, and religious and community groups are all potential scholarship sources. Colleges themselves often provide scholarship awards, so it’s well worth the time to explore the admission, financial aid and departmental pages of college websites. Complete the first application. Once one application is in, it may be easier for students to complete others. It may help to set aside time each week to search for and apply for awards. One to start with is the ISL Education Lending Scholarship at www.IowaStudentLoan.org/Savings. In just a few minutes, Iowa residents who are
are with these brave individuals and their families as they work to protect our freedom.
As we pause on this day, contemplating the history of our nation and giving thanks to all the brave soldiers who have served our country, I encourage you to reach out to a veteran or military member in your life and thank them for their service. A simple gesture, a phone call, a message, or a heartfelt conversation can mean the world to someone who has sacrificed so much.
I also invite you to visit the ‘Honor a Veteran’ page on sos.iowa.gov, where you can leave a tribute to a veteran who has made a difference in your life. Since its inception in 2012, this initiative has collected over 9,500 tributes. As part of this initiative, we encourage eligible Iowa voters to not only honor a veteran, but to honor them with your vote. Participating in our elections process and exercising your fundamental right to vote is a beautiful way to honor those who have fought for our nation and protected these fundamental rights. Thank you again to the brave men and women. We can never thank you enough for your sacrifice.
current Iowa high school students, undergraduate college students, or their parents or guardians can enter for chances to win $1,000 for college. Don’t give up. It’s important to keep looking for scholarships because sponsors make their opportunities available at various times. The search should continue during the college years too, as students may become eligible for departmental or industry-related awards later on.
See the big picture. While smaller awards may seem insignificant compared to the total cost of college, remember that every scholarship earned allows savings to go further and reduces the need to take out student loans that have to be repaid with interest. Multiple small awards can add up quickly as well.
Jasper County calls off letters gauging cost-share interest on feasibility study
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Supervisors received negative feedback from neighbors living on Iowa Street regarding their proposal to enter into a costshare agreement for a feasibility study on the closed bridge over the North Skunk River. Letters were intended to be sent last week to gauge interest, but now it seems like that idea is scrapped.
Newton News reported on the board of supervisors considering the study last week before officials ever drafted the letter. Residents attended the Oct. 28 board meeting and told supervisors they were offended the county would even consider asking them to pay for the approximately $15,000 study.
Others were disappointed to learn about the idea from a newspaper article rather than the supervisors themselves. The idea was brought up during the Oct. 21 work session, and the subsequent story caused a mild uproar online. Supervisors said they were just trying to do everything they could for the neighbors.
Supervisor Thad Nearmyer explained the letters were not going to say residents had to pay for the study, but rather asked if they would be interested in splitting costs. Nearmyer said the county engineer had already exhausted his efforts in finding a solution; the study would give an outside entity a chance to do so, too.
“We were encouraged to think outside
the box,” Nearmyer said to neighbors during the most recent work session. “We had an outside-the-box idea. If this is the neighborhood saying they don’t want that option, then that’s fine. We can continue to look for other options.”
Dawn Bollhoefer, who lives along Iowa Street, advocated for having an objective third party take a look at the bridge, but she was seemingly against neighbors paying for it. Supervisor Brandon Talsma defended the county engineer, saying he does have an objective view and had tried to find grant funding for the bridge.
“A bridge that has to be replaced has to meet certain standards,” Talsma said. “The standards are not set by us. They are set by the federal department of transportation and the state department of transportation and the Iowa (Department of Natural Resources).”
But Talsma explained the reason supervisors asked about the feasibility study is because they were asked directly about it by Iowa Street residents. While supervisors were OK moving forward with a letter, Talsma still had reservations because he worried the study would be redundant and start a chain reaction.
“If we pay for a feasibility study for this bridge, we will then immediately have at least five more people coming in and requesting feasibility studies on their bridges, too,” Talsma said. “I know of five people off the top of my head that will come to us with-
Feedback from residents on Iowa Street showed the idea is out of the question
in a matter of months demanding the exact same thing.”
Mindy Adkison pleaded that residents are concerned about their safety knowing there is only one way into the neighborhood in case of an emergency. Talsma said that is why they reached out about the cost-share proposal, but he stressed the supervisors were reasonably confident all solutions had been exhausted.
Nearmyer said, “We’re trying. As Brandon indicated, we wouldn’t have to keep having these discussions but we agree you guys have a problem you want fixed and we’re trying to find ways. So far there’s no super good way to fix the bridge. I don’t know — short of a (new) bridge — will work for you.”
FURTHER BACKGROUND
INFORMATION
Public hearings were held before supervisors made any formal decision on the bridge closure and removal. They knew a number of the 16 or so households would not like the idea, but the bridge had grown old and was beyond repair. Replacing it would have been an expensive undertaking.
If the traffic count had been higher or if it was classified as a farm-to-market route, then in all likelihood the bridge could have been replaced. But it didn’t meet those parameters. Still, residents argued the removal of the bridge posed a safety risk as it would remove any other route in and out of their neighborhood.
Grinnell Chapter DAR performs Day of Service
Each year on or around Oct. 11, members of the Daughters of the American Revolution perform a service project in their community to honor the anniversary of the founding of DAR on Oct. 11, 1890. At their Oct. 11 meeting members of the Grinnell Chapter DAR put together 11 shoeboxes for homeless veterans. The shoeboxes are intended to be holiday gifts and included items such as snack crackers and bars, candy, microwaveable mac and cheese bowls, playing cards, calendars, crosswords, sudokus, notepaper, finda-word puzzles, color books and color pencils.
Grinnell Chapter put together 11 boxes out of a state goal of 50 boxes. Regent Linda Hatch delivered the boxes to Jeanne McMillan, DAR State Chair of the Service for Veterans Committee. The Des Moines Veterans Affairs Community Resource and Referral Center will distribute the shoeboxes on Dec. 4.
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to promote historic preservation, education
HOWARD ST. CHRISTIAN CHURCH
(Disciples of Christ)
Pastor Josh Burns
101 N. Locust St., Colfax Cell - 515-779-3148
SUNDAY - 10 a.m. Fellow-
ship;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-
Chapter members.
and patriotism. Its members are descended from the patriots who won American independence during the Revolutionary War. Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible
for
to join. The Grinnell Chapter is named after Josiah B. Grinnell, the founder of the city of Grinnell. Members come from Grinnell, Newton, Montezuma and surrounding communities.
For information about membership in DAR, contact Nancy Bender, registrar, 641-236-7065.
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
MINGO UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Rev. Phil Dicks 515-689-4926
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Worship service
The only other way in was through a railroad crossing, which neighbors said makes frequent prolonged stops. State law only allows trains to be stopped for up to 10 minutes at a time, but residents said they have experienced up to 40-minute delays. Maybe even longer.
In response, Jasper County decided to leave out a camera to track the crossings, but the removal of the bridge was still inevitable. The county was liable for any potential dangers or disasters, and the bridge was showing serious signs of deterioration. Residents fought hard to find alternatives but were unsuccessful.
The county attempted a number of times to find additional funding streams and grants for the bridge, but it was also unsuccessful.
Supervisors were encouraged by neighbors to get creative and think outside the box. When the supervisors received a letter complaining about them ordering a feasibility study for a proposed bridge over T-38, they took the complaint seriously and gauged board interest about ordering a feasibility study.
While they all believed the study would likely tell them what they already knew, they were open to the idea of alternative solutions. Supervisor Doug Cupples was uneasy with the idea, saying the cost-share should be primarily covered by the county and that some neighbors might take offense to it altogether.
Holiday Arts & Crafts Show Nov. 14-16
Make plans now to attend the Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Show Nov. 14-16 in the Varied Industries Building at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. This is Iowa’s largest show, with more than 300 talented exhibitors from eight states presenting and selling the Midwest’s finest handcrafts. This show is a production of Callahan Promotions, Inc. and offers patrons the chance to enjoy original, affordable arts and crafts. Products being sold include oak furniture, pottery, jewelry, clothing, floral wreaths, pet products, purses, rugs, candles, tablerunners, stained glass, lawn and garden metal art, quilts, paintings and prints, several different types of food items, and more, with more than 80,000 square feet of display space. Admission to the show is $8, with anyone 10 and under free. All patrons will receive a 3-day re-entry hand stamp good for the entire 3-day run of the show. Show hours are 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Parking for the show is always free. For the public’s convenience, a free shuttle bus service will be available on Saturday and will shuttle the public from the northern parking lots to the front of the Varied Industries Building. For a chance to win $50 Gift Certificates to redeem at the show, please visit the facebook page of Callahan Promotions, Inc. Iowa’s Largest Arts & Crafts Shows. For additional show information, call 563-3571986.
(Sunday school not meeting at this time)
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
Baxter trio headlines Bolts on all-district football squad
Senior Eli Dee led the district in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns this past season and senior Stadan Vansice ranked second in the league in total tackles.
Cody Spurgeon, a third senior, was part of a Baxter offensive line that helped the Bolts lead the district in passing yards and rank fourth in both rushing yards and touchdowns while finishing third in total yards.
All three Bolts were named to the first team in Class 8-man District 7 recently. Dee and Vansice were unanimous selections.
All-district recognition is based on statistics inside district play only.
Joining Dee, Vansice and Spurgeon on the all-district team from Baxter were seniors Trevor Hamilton and Ruger Kincaid and sophomores Hayden Burdess and Colten Damman on the second team and freshmen Miles McCord and Cooper Smith as the honorable mention choices.
Senior Cael Wishman earned a Golden Award, which goes to players who would have been all-district had it not been for an injury.
The Bolts finished 3-5 overall and 2-4 in the district and missed the postseason in Zach Hasselbrink’s first season as head coach.
Dee earned all-district honors as a wide receiver after leading the district with 41 catches, 704 receiving yards and 15 receiving touchdowns. He completed a 31-yard pass and rushed for 63 yards and one TD on six carries.
Spurgeon was a first-team offensive lineman, Hamilton was a second-team pick on the offensive line and Smith also played on the lines. Baxter’s offense led the district with 1,112 passing yards, ranked third with 2,103 total yards and finished fourth in both rushing yards (991) and offensive touchdowns (31).
Vansice’s all-district recognition came as a linebacker. He ranked second in the league with 45.5 tackles and finished with two tackles for loss.
Burdess ranked fourth in the district with 39.5 tackles and had three tackles for loss, Kincaid totaled 27.5 tackles and ranked sixth with six tackles for loss and Damman finished with 17.5 tackles.
McCord also made his biggest impact on defense, registering 20.5 tackles and recovering one fumble. Smith also recovered a fumble.
Wishman’s season was cut short due to an injury, but he totaled 11.5 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and two sacks.
Offensive MVP
Brady Boulton, sr., Montezuma
Co-Defensive MVP
Gage Swan, sr., Wayne Broox Stockman, sr., Montezuma
Specialist MVP
Luke Long, sr., Montezuma
Offensive Lineman MVP
Gage Swan, sr., Wayne
Defensive Lineman MVP
Cale Dop, jr., Southeast Warren Coach of the Year
Jeff Bumsted, Montezuma
Assistant Coach of the Year
Dave Daughton, Wayne Golden Award
Cael Wishman, sr., Baxter; Luke Erselius, sr., Montezuma.
Do you have a birthday, engagement, wedding, anniversary, birth or graduation to celebrate? Celebrate with an ad in the Newton DailyNews, Jasper County Advertiser, Jasper County Tribune or PCM Explorer. Call 641-792-3121 or email advertising@newtondailynews.com to get your ad placed today. Jasper County Tribune Explorer PCM
dvertiser Jasper County
Baxter senior Cody Spurgeon was named a first team all-district selection this fall. He was a two-way starter, totaled 29 tackles and 5.5 tackles for loss and the Bolts rushed for 1,537 yards. Baxter averaged 6 yards per carry.
