PCM-06-20-2024

Explorer PCM

Crowned

Jasper County has new royalty. Libbie Keith was crowned Jasper County Fair Queen while Meredith Chipps earned the title of Jasper County Fair Princess at the annual contest June 15 at the YMCA Theater in Newton.

‘(The candidates) have been preparing for the last month,” organizer Codi Holdeman said. “They have been nervous, they have been excited. Today, they’ve cried, they

Libbie Keith named 2024 Jasper County Fair Queen, Meredith Chipps fair princess

made friendships, they’ve made memories and they’ve gained skills that will last them a lifetime.”

Six girls competed for the crown, all 4-H or FFA members throughout the county. Along with Keith and Chipps, Trinity-Ann Hanson, Rylee DeHaai, Lexi Kephart and Cadie Horn took the stage in hopes of being selected to represent the county.

MCing the event were 2023 Queen Jocelyn Harder and Princess Hope Bonham. The candidates started the contest by in-

troducing themselves and their escorts who helped them to the stage. They then showed off a casual clothing ensemble they put together while the explanation of why they selected the pieces was shared.

Working with the 2024 fair theme, the candidates shared what “Stars, Stripes and Jasper County Fair Nights” means to them. Whether it was through dance, song or just their own words, each

QUEEN | 3

Getting WILD!

The Blank Park Zoo shares different animals and information about them to kids during a Monroe Public Library event June 10 in downtown Monroe

Jamee A. Pierson/ PCM Explorer

A shy armadillo finally emerges from its carrier to be seen my dozens of kids during the Blank Park Zoo’s visit sponsored by the Monroe Public Library.

Take a trip to the farmers market

The Prairie City Farmers Market is back each Thursday and filled with goods from vegetables to crafts

from the ground coming as the season progresses.

If it is Thursday, then downtown Prairie City is the place to be. The Prairie City Farmers Market is back each week from 5 to 7 p.m. with a growing number of participants hoping to sell their delicious and fun goods.

Tables line the sidewalk on the northwest side of Garden Square Park each with unique finds. From baked goodies to handmade crafts, there is a little of everything. And more is coming.

“This year has been one that if you planted tomatoes in the middle of April, you’d be having tomatoes right now. But you normally can’t get a tomato to grow in April to early May,” organizer Scott DeVries said. “You would have had to have one heck of a stepping out in faith to put something in the ground in April. But it just got hot. It sounded like maybe by the last week of June we will have tomatoes.”

A few fresh vegetables made a quick appearance before being quickly bought up. Turnips and radishes were fresh and ready with even more gifts

The Prairie City Farmers Market is a long-held tradition. It was first held Saturday mornings before a brief hiatus, and then it moved to its current Thursday slot. Those that want to participate need not worry about a lengthy process to start selling.

“People can go to the Facebook page and the form is linked there,” DeVries said. “Or just show up. We will take anybody on farmers market night and work them in.”

Additional activities from the Prairie City Public Library are also planned for a few Thursday evenings. Touch-ATruck, a time for kids to come learn about the fire department, will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. June 27. Magician Rick Eugene will wow the crowd with his eye dazzling tricks starting at 4:30 p.m. July 18. Once the shopping is done, at 6:30 p.m. July 25 a family movie night featuring “Garfield” will take place at the library.

The farmers market will run each Thursday through Sept. 26. For more information, visit the Prairie City Farmers Market Facebook page.

A.

The Prairie City Farmers’ Market is set for 5 to 7 p.m. each Thursday through the end of September in Garden Square Park.

NASCAR CUP SERIES IN NEWTON

The grandstands were packed for three days of racing, culminating in the first NASCAR Cup Series race in Iowa Speedway history

History was made this past weekend as race fans finally got what they had always been asking for: a NASCAR Cup Series race at the Iowa Speedway. A sold out crowd watched the Iowa Corn 350 on June 16 at the Newton-based racetrack, which had previously held the Hy-Vee Perks 250 NASCAR Xfinity Series race on June 15 and the Atlas 150 Menards ARCA Series race June 14.

Jamee A. Pierson/PCM Explorer

Meredith Chipps, left, was crowned Jasper County Fair Princess and Libbie Keith, right, took home the title of Jasper County Fair Queen at the annual contest June 15 at the Newton Community Theatre.

By Jamee A. Pierson PCM Explorer

By Christopher Braunschweig PCM Explorer

By Jamee A. Pierson PCM Explorer

Jamee

Pierson/PCM Explorer

PCM Food Pantry

The PCM Food Pantry at the Monroe Presbyterian Church, 113 S. Main St. in Monroe, is open 9 a.m. to noon and 6 to 7 p.m. Mondays and 9 a.m. to noon Thursdays.

Events at The Gathering Place

Thursday, June 20

• 9am Crafts with Jamee ($4 for craft)

• 10am Focus Group

Monday, June 24

• 8am Coffee & Prayer with Pastor Ann

• 10am Video Exercise Class

Tuesday, June 25

• 9am Crafts with Jamee ($4 for craft)

Wednesday, June 26

• 1pm “Get Fit, Move More”

Thursday, June 27

•5pm Acoustic JAMM session, bring finger food

Friday, June 28

2pm Piano with Jacque Robinson

TOPS

TOPS 1025 meets at 5:30 p.m. every Monday at the First Reformed Church in Prairie City for weigh-in, with meeting to follow. Go to the north side parking lot at the church and enter in the north door. Call 515-994-2200 for information.

Men’s Recovery meeting

Lighthouse Recovery Ministries hosts a Men’s Recovery meeting at 6:30 p.m. each Monday at Grace Alive Church, 703 W. Second St. in Prairie City. Contact Barb at b.miller@lighthouserecoveryia.com with questions.

PCM Clothing Closet

The PCM Clothing Closet, on the second floor of the Family Life Center at 105 S. Sherman St. in Prairie City, will be open from 3:30 to 7 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday and 2 to 4 p.m. Sundays.

Prairie City-Monroe Blood Drive

The upcoming blood drive will be from 7:15 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 20 at First Reformed Church, 300 E. Fifth St., Prairie City. Call 800-2874903 to schedule an appointment.

Explorer PCM

Phil Clevenger

June 4, 2024

Obituaries

He was the Jasper County Medical Examiner for 13 years.

Dr. Phil Clevenger, 76, of Newton, died Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at his residence in Newton after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Philip Lloyd Clevenger was born to Lloyd and Jane Clevenger on February 18, 1948, in Newton, Iowa. He graduated from Monroe High School in 1966 and the University of Iowa in 1970 with a degree in Finance. He was a Federal Bank Examiner before he changed career paths. He spent several years working part-time jobs while attending Eastern Michigan University to fulfill science requirements and then was accepted to medical school at C.O.M.S. (Des Moines University). He graduated from medical school in 1981 and did a 2-year Family Practice Residency at Des Moines General Hospital. He spent the majority of his 32 years of practicing medicine in Jasper County. Upon retirement, he spent his time volunteering at free medical clinics in the Des Moines area.

Academic Achievement

Iowa State University

AMES — More than 4,450 graduates received degrees from Iowa State University this spring including: Klaire Jungling of Prairie City, Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education, Summa Cum Laude; Madeline Ladehoff of Prairie City, Bachelor of Science, Entrepreneurship, Interdisciplinary Studies; Madeline Ladehoff of Prairie City, Bachelor of Science, Entrepreneurship, Interdisciplinary Studies; Dane Owens of Prairie City, Bachelor of Science, Biology, Summa Cum Laude and Bachelor of Science, Biology, Summa Cum Laude; Gabriel Steenhoek of Prairie City, Bachelor of Science, Agricultural Systems Technology, Summa Cum Laude; Blake Van Der Kamp of Prairie City,

Bachelor of Science, Agricultural and Life Sciences Education, International Agriculture, Magna Cum Laude, Honors Program Member and Bachelor of Science, Agricultural and Life Sciences Education, International Agriculture, Magna Cum Laude, Honors Program Member; Meleisha Vos of Reasnor, Bachelor of Science, Animal Science, Summa Cum Laude; Seth Greiner of Runnells, Bachelor of Science, Nutritional Science (H SCI), Summa Cum Laude.

More than 10,600 Iowa State University students have been recognized for outstanding academic achievement by being named to the spring semester 2024 dean’s list. Students named to the dean’s list must earn a grade point average of at least 3.50 on a 4.00 scale while

Phil had four children with Susan Karr: Mia (Bill) Hoeft of Coralville, Greg (Teresa) Clevenger of Solon, Drew (Gretchen) Clevenger of St. Ansgar, and Jason (Alicia) Clevenger of Johnston. Phil later married his best friend, Caren DeVoe and became stepdad to Cassie (Travis) Cook of Colfax and Justin (Sierra) DeVoe of Prairie City. Phil and Caren spent the last 25 years of his life together in Newton.

Dr. Clevenger’s life was a testament to compassion, dedication, and service to his community. While practicing medicine, Phil left an indelible mark on the lives of countless patients. Known affectionately as “Doc” to many, his impact extended far beyond the confines of his office. In the last 20 years of his life, Phil and Caren helped many people achieve the dream of home ownership.

Whether it was treating a common cold or providing comfort in times of crisis, he approached every patient with empathy and unwavering care. His commitment to healing went beyond the clinic walls; he was a familiar face on the sidelines of high school football games in Monroe and St. Ansgar, offering his expertise and support to the teams he cherished.

Phil enjoyed traveling with his wife, Caren. The

carrying a minimum of 12 credit hours of graded course work including Monroe students: Tristan A. Doehne, Carson Duinink, Noah Hirayama, Riley Hjortshoj, Evan Johnson, Andrew Mitchell, Emma Thomas; Prairie City students Victoria Conoan, Kyler Fischer, Emma George, Klaire Jungling, Madeline Ladehoff, Kate McClellan, Brayden Nessa, Megan Noel North, Dane Owens, Jay Steenhoek, Paige Steenhoek, Kaeden Strum, Blake Van Der Kamp; Meleisha Vos of Reasnor.

University of Mississippi NIVERSITY, MS — Maren Egging of Reasnor, was named to the University of Mississippi’s Spring 2024 Chancellor’s Honor Roll, which is reserved for students who earn a semester grade point average of 3.75-4.00.

adventures on which they embarked ranged from helping serve in healthcare in El Salvador and most recently to the pyramids of Egypt. He was always eager to share pictures and stories of their travels. In addition to traveling, Phil was an avid golfer who greatly enjoyed spending time on the course with his children and his brother-in-law, Dean. What Phil enjoyed most of all though, was family. Nothing lit up his eyes more than spending time with his family. He made a conscious effort to see his 21 grandchildren participate in activities and traveled all over the state to support them up until his death. All who knew him will miss him tremendously.

Even as he was battling cancer, he always found something to enjoy each day. He fought with dignity and grace, inspiring all who knew him with his resilience. While the family deeply mourns his passing, they find comfort in knowing he is now at peace, free from pain and sickness, and surrounded by the eternal love and grace of God.

He is survived by his wife, Caren; children and step-children, Mia and husband Bill Hoeft and their children, Morgan, Rachel, and Will; Greg and his wife Teresa Clevenger and their children, Jarod, Katy, Jackson, Walker, and Carter; Drew and his wife, Gretchen Clevenger and their chil-

dren, Hannah, Joe, Matt, and Lauren; Jason and his wife Alicia Clevenger, and their children, Henry, Mira, and Maggie; Cassie and her husband Travis Cook and their children, Emma and Emily; and Justin and his wife, Sierra DeVoe and their children, Quinton, Braxton, Kinley, and Jayda; his sister, Barbara DeHaai and her husband Dean; brother-in-law, Bill Robson and his wife RuthAnn; brother-in-law, Joe Robson and his wife Joy; one sister-in-law, Jan Keenan; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Jane Clevenger; sister, JoAnn Justmann and her husband Herb; parents-in-law, Wilber and Coleen Robson; brother-in-law, Ray Smothers; and nephew, Wesley Robson.

The family will greet friends from 4-7 p.m., Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at the Wallace Family Funeral Home and Crematory in Newton. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 20, 2024, at the First United Methodist Church in Newton. Following the service, there will be a reception at 1611 1st Ave. W., in Newton. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation which can be directed to the Wallace Family Funeral and Home and Crematory and will be dispersed to local charities according to Phil’s wishes.

BLI hosts Summer Musical June 23 in Pella

The Bible League International of Central Iowa is planning a service of patriotism and praise for their Summer Musical at 7 p.m. June 23 at Trinity Church in Pella.

The event will include vocal numbers by the Pella Barbershop Chorus and music of bagpipes played by Pastor Erik Kamps. There will be information of the symbolism of a flag-folding ceremony, and hear how the Bible League is serving ethnic churches within the U.S. An offering will be taken for support of the Bible League International.

PRAISE THE ROOF!

Fierce Faith Music Fest 2024 still attracts large crowds in its third year despite racing taking over much of the weekend spotlight

girl had a unique take on how those words applied to their lives.

The evening gown portion was accompanied by a different random question answered by each of the candidates. Without prior knowledge of what they would be answering, each contestant had to be quick on their feet to give precise answers to the best of their ability.

Then it was the hardest part: the wait. As the judges gathered to make a decision, friends and family in the crowd greeted their candidates to help make the time go a little faster.

About 30 minutes later, the work was done and the girls gathered backstage to find out who would be the next queen and princess. Harder and Horn said a few final words about their time with the titles, each getting choked up as they reflected on what it meant to them to wear the crowns.

To begin the awards, DeHaai was selected as Miss Congeniality for the contest, an honor

voted on by the contestants. The time had finally come with Bonham going first, walking back and forth behind the line of candidates before reaching up to place the princess crown on Chipps. Next, Harder followed the same path, working to keep the crowd guessing before she crowned Harder as the newest fair queen.

“This means a lot to these girls,” Jasper County Fair President Roger Zaabel said. “You’re all winners ... this is our future in Jasper County.”

Get to know the 2024 Jasper County Fair Queen and Princess

Libbie Keith — Newton

Libbie Keith is a 2024 Graduate of Newton High School. She is the daughter of Craig and Angel Keith. During high school, Libbie was on the bowling team, both football and winter varsity cheer teams, played the flute and piccolo in concert and marching band, and was involved in FFA and National Honors Society. Outside of school, she danced in InMotion and is involved in Sherman Sunbeams 4-H Club. Some of her achievements include graduating with highest honors, valedictorian, 4.0 GPA, All-American Cheer

to

and being the first four-time state bowling qualifier in her school’s history. Some of her best memories and friends have come out of being a part of the Jasper County Fair and camping on the grounds. She also enjoys being a role model to the younger kids and influencing them to want to stay active in FFA and 4-H.

Caring

“Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve dreamed of being the role model that all the little girls, including myself, looked up to,” Harder said. “I am very excited for all the adventures this year brings. It’s a dream come true!”

Meredith Chipps — Monroe Meredith Chipps is the daughter of Mitchell and Melissa Chipps. She is currently about to go into her senior year at PCM High School. Some activities she is involved in are golf, FFA, 4-H, FCA and National Honor Society. Meredith is excited to serve as princess because she wants to meet more people from the county and express her love for our county fair to others.

Christopher Braunschweig/PCM Explorer

Jordan Feliz performs the headlining set of Fierce Faith Music Fest 2024 on June 15 at Community Heights Alliance Church.

Christopher Braunschweig/PCM Explorer

Sanctus Real performs on the Fierce Faith Music Fest 2024 stage on June 15 at Community Heights Alliance Church in Newton.

Jamee A. Pierson/PCM Explorer

Meredith Chipps has an animated response

being named the 2024 Jasper County Fair Princess at the annual queen contest June 15.

The 80th anniversary of D-Day

On the 80th anniversary of D-Day, it’s essential to pause and reflect on the profound significance of this historic event.

On the 6th of June 1944, Major General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s rallying cry echoed across the shores of Normandy: “The eyes of the world are upon you. The hopes and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere

march with you.” These words encapsulated the spirit of bravery and sacrifice that defined the Allied troops who embarked on that fateful mission.

Imagine the scene: 160,000 Allied troops, including 73,000 Americans, braving the unknown as they stormed the beaches of Normandy. Each step forward was a testament to their unwavering dedication to upholding liberty in the face of tyranny. It’s a reminder of the extraordinary courage

Saving yields: Replant coverage offers a second chance for crops

By Kelsey Willardson, policy associate Center for Rural Affairs

As planting season winds down, farmers impacted by adverse weather events this spring may find themselves concerned about future crop yields.

According to the National Weather Service, May 2024 had the most severe weather in more than a decade, with thousands of thunderstorms and hundreds of tornados reported across the country.

Because newly planted seeds are vulnerable until the plant has emerged and is well established, operations hit by severe weather could incur a significant loss of income before their crops have a chance to grow. When these situations happen early in the season, farmers may have the opportunity to replant affected areas, but that adds unexpected expenses.

Farmers who have purchased Whole Farm Revenue Protection (WFRP) won’t bear the expense on their own. Replant coverage for annual crops, with the exception of industrial hemp, is included in WFRP, a crop insurance program that allows farmers to insure multiple crops and even livestock under a single policy. If seeds or seedlings are lost due to severe spring weather, the farmer can file a claim to cover the cost of replanting, or 20% of the expected revenue from that crop, whichever is lower.

Unlike other types of crop insurance that provide payments after crops are lost to adverse weather, pest infestations, or disease, replant coverage allows farmers a second chance at recouping their yields.

While the window for replanting is narrow, WFRP helps farmers protect their yields in the earliest stages of development.

To learn more about the program, view and download a copy of WFRP fact sheet at cfra.org/publications/whole-farm-revenue-protection.

YOUR VIEW

Make our voices heard

I, like most others in the area, was shocked and angered by the news that we were losing yet another source of local news, and that those who worked hard to bring us that news had been fired. Newton needs our local radio the same way we need our YMCA and local library. All serve a community need. I know nothing about this Alpha Media Group who are responsible for this action, but I do know that money talks and it’s time we all used the power of our voices to show these new owners they have made a terrible mistake. I have reprogrammed the radio tuner in my car to delete the Newton station that I had preset and would encourage all others to do the same. No listeners means no ratings, and advertisers will not spend money to advertise with a station that has no listeners. Tell any businesses that advertise with this group that you no longer listen to these stations. Maybe when these new owners realize no one is listening any longer, they might decide to cut their losses and sell back the stations to a local investment group who can then restore a great source of local news, community activities, and sports coverage. How about it, this is our chance to channel our outrage into action. Let’s come together to make our voices heard and keep our precious dollars from those who advertise with these stations.

John Moore Newton

displayed by ordinary individuals in the pursuit of a noble cause.

The bravery exhibited on D-Day transcends the battlefield; it serves as a timeless example of human resilience and determination in the face of adversity. These soldiers fought not for personal gain or recognition but for the principles of freedom, democracy, and justice. Their sacrifice was not in vain; it paved the way for a world free from oppression and tyranny.

As we commemorate the bravery of those who fought on the beaches of Normandy, it’s crucial to consider the broader lessons of their sacrifice. Their courage serves as a reminder of the values embodied in our constitution that define our nation: freedom, equality,

and justice regardless of station. We must honor their memory not just with words but with actions that uphold these principles.

Furthermore, we must never forget the sacrifices made by those who served honorably on that fateful day. Their legacy lives on in the freedoms we enjoy today, reminding us of the debt of gratitude we owe to those who came before us.

On this anniversary of D-Day, may we unite as one nation, proud of our history and resolute in our commitment to a brighter tomorrow. As President Ronald Reagan said, “We will always remember. We will always be proud. We will always be prepared so we may always remain free.”

SHARE YOUR VIEW

Letters to the PCM Explorer will be edited for libel, grammar and length and should not exceed 400 words. We reserve the right to shorten letters and reject those deemed libelous, in poor taste or of a personal nature. Include your full name, address and a daytime phone number for verification. Signed columns as well as letters to the editor and editorial cartoons represent the personal opinion of the writer or artist. Submit letters to newsroom@newtondailynews. com or Newton News, P.O. Box 967, Newton, IA 50208

Youth For Understanding student returns to Mt. Pleasant for a visit

In 1978 Mike and Marilyn Vincent of Mt. Pleasant welcomed their second-of-five Youth For Understanding students (Foreign Exchange Students). This one from Finland. Her name is Outi (pronounced “Otie”) Svinhufvud. She was 17 and a senior in high school. Mike and Marilyn’s only disappointment was that Outi had black hair. They had pictured a Scandinavian blonde. But Outi soon warmed their hearts. She was outgoing, smart and had a deep, resonating voice — but it’s easy to understand, even when she whispers. She’s been told her hertz, or voice wave length in cycles per second, is ideal for hearing. Outi would spend the year with the Vincents and graduate from Mt. Pleasant. She would then return to Finland for a second graduation. Her mother had wanted Outi to be in the Youth for Understanding program so that she would learn to speak English. Although extremely smart in mathematics, physics and chemistry, Outi struggled with foreign languages.

As luck, or Divine Providence, would have it, Marilyn just happened to be a high school English and speech teacher. Much to Outi’s terror, Marilyn pushed Outi to take speech. In Finland, there was no such course. Marilyn was patient and taught Outi composure, eye contact and tricks to overcome nervousness, like deep breathing. Most

importantly, Marilyn taught Outi how to make each individual in the audience feel like she was talking directly to them. Outi credits the speech training she received at Mt. Pleasant Community High School as a key ingredient for the successful career she would have. She went on to earn a Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Technology in Finland, and worked in computer sales, and international banking management, positions that required much public speaking.

Why is Outi back in the U.S.?

Her 28-year old son, Öjvind (pronounced “Ovind”), is a world class Pokemon Cards player. The North American Championship for Pokemon Cards is being held in New Orleans. He has played in 11 World Championships. Outi and Öjvind decided that since they were coming to the United States anyway, they would drop by Mt. Pleasant to visit with Mike and Marilyn Vincent. They all have such fond memories of the year they spent together. The Vincents had no other children at the time, so Outi had the Vincents and their

home all to herself.

Outi comes from some royalty. Her Great Grandfather was the third president of Finland from 1931 - 1937. His name was Pehr Evind Svinhufvud, and was known by friends and family as Ukko-Pekka, which translates to “Friendly Old Man” or just plain “Friendly Dude.” According to Outi, her son, Öjvind looks a lot like her Great Grandfather.

BTW: Finland is known as the happiest country in the world. They received their independence from Russia in 1917 during the Russian Revolution. According to Öjvind, Russia was too busy with the Revolution to worry about Finland. Finland joined NATO after Russia attacked Ukraine, because Finland has an 800-mile border with Russia. All males in Finland are required to serve in the military, with nearly half of its population of five-million people involved with the military. From Tuusula, Finland, both Outi and Öjvind say that compared to the United States, the politics in Finland is boring. Big news in Finland might be what the President had for breakfast. Outi says that when she was here in 1978, the United States was much more united. She sees a lot of division now and what she calls, “nonsense news.”

Contact Curt Swarm at curtswarm@yahoo.com

Curt Swarm

Empty Nest

BASEBALL

PCM uses big innings to down 1A No. 5 Hawks

By Troy Hyde PCM Explorer

PRAIRIE CITY — Trenner Van Dyke knew he was out of pitches when he got Lucas Sieck to pop up with one out in the top of the seventh inning.

The next time he gets into a similar situation though, he will probably remember if runners were on base.

After he caught Sieck’s pop up near foul territory on the first base side of the field, Van Dyke tossed the ball up in the air in excitement. He was looking forward to a win over thenClass 1A No. 2 Lynnville-Sully but a run scored on the play after the ball landed on the infield in front of his defense.

Luckily for him and the PCM baseball team, the cushion was large enough to overcome a mistake as the Mustangs scored three runs in the third to grab the lead and added five in the sixth to stay in front during a 9-4 non-conference home victory on June 11.

“I just totally forgot there were runners on base. I wasn’t looking at them anymore and was just focused on the batter,” Van Dyke said after the win. “I was done with pitches so I knew I was coming out of the game. Luckily we had a good cushion.”

Van Dyke improved to 3-1 after tossing 6 2/3 innings against the state-ranked Hawks. He allowed three earned runs on 11 hits and one walk, struck out six and was forced out of the game after throwing 111 pitches.

Shay Burns got the final out of the game. Van Dyke credited his defense as a big reason why PCM scored the win.

The Mustangs committed three errors, but Lynnville-Sully had its worst defensive game of the season with seven errors.

“Our defense did their job tonight,” PCM head baseball coach Lewis Daye said. “Trenner pitched well and we know if we play good defense behind him, we are probably going to win.

“You have to put the ball in play and make them get an out. They might make a mistake. They might overthrow the ball. You at least have to force them to do their job.”

That’s what the Mustangs did in the third. After L-S took a 2-1 lead with two runs in the top half of the frame, PCM scored three runs on three Hawk errors in the bottom of the frame.

Easton Webb walked with one out and Gabe Hobbs was hit by a pitch. Then three straight errors on ground balls helped PCM take the lead for good.

Lannon Montgomery struck out the final two batters of the frame to keep the game at 4-2, but the mistakes proved costly in the final outcome.

“We gave them way too many free bases and it’s hard to be competitive when you give a team 15 free bases,” L-S head baseball coach Scott Alberts said. “We didn’t play as well as we can.”

PCM scored one run in the bottom of the first. L-S went in front in the third after Blake Van Wyk and Corder Noun Harder both singled and scored on Carson Maston’s two-run double.

The Hawks stranded the bases loaded in the sixth before PCM (7-9) added to its lead with five runs in the bottom half of the inning.

Kaleb DeVries led off the inning with a walk and singles that didn’t leave the infield by Webb and Hobbs loaded the bases.

A fielder’s choice off the bat of Jack Jungling resulted in a dropped ball at home for another Hawk error. Another run scored on a second error in the frame and then Jensson Hood’s RBI fielder’s choice to second plated another run.

With two outs, Jacob Wendt delivered a two-run single to

cap the Mustangs’ scoring.

“It feels great. I firmly believe that when we are on our ‘A’ game, we can beat anyone around, regardless of rankings,” Daye said. “We feel like we can compete with anyone when we are at our best, no matter who’s pitching.

“I definitely wanted this one. The team wanted this one. This is a good win.”

Noun Harder legged out an infield single to lead off the seventh but left the game with an ankle injury.

C.J. Nikkel walked to put two runners on base. Nikkel and pinch runner Matthew Mintle both moved up a base later in the inning and then Maston’s RBI single made it 9-3. Nikkel sprinted home when Van Dyke threw the ball up in the air after Sieck’s pop out.

The game ended one batter later though as the Hawks lost for the first time this season.

“You can’t just throw a firstpitch fastball every time to a team like this so I tried to mix it up,” Van Dyke said.

“They got us last year and were undefeated coming into the game. But we got them this year, and it feels good.”

PCM’s six hits were all singles. Webb led the Mustangs with one hit, two walks and two runs and Hobbs had one hit, two runs, one walk and one hit by pitch. Webb leads the team with 15 walks.

Trigg Steenhoek collected one hit, one run and two RBIs, Jungling chipped in one hit, two runs and one RBI and Jacob Wendt’s hit resulted in two RBIs.

Steenhoek now leads the team with 14 RBIs. DeVries walked once and scored two runs and now leads the team with 18 runs.

Farver tallied one hit and was hit by one pitch, Alex Wendt

walked twice and stole one base and Hood drove in three runs and stole one base.

The Mustangs’ offensive night included six walks, two hit by pitches and seven errors.

Noun Harder finished with three hits, one run and one steal and Maston collected two hits, doubled and had three RBIs

The Hawks, who dropped to No. 5 in the latest 1A poll, were playing their second of six games last week.

Alberts and the coaching staff were trying to navigate through a busy week of pitching and elected to take Maston out after 40 pitches. He allowed no earned runs and no hits in 1 2/3 innings. He did walked three and struck out two. The team trailed 1-0 when he left the game.

Montgomery (1-2) gave the Hawks 3 1/3 innings and he allowed three runs — none earned — on two hits, two walks

and two hit batters. He struck out four and was pulled after 60 pitches but took the loss.

Van Wyk tossed the sixth inning and surrendered five unearned runs on three hits and one walk.

Saydel 5, PCM 4

PRAIRIE CITY — A slow start doomed the Mustangs against 3A Saydel on June 12.

The Eagles plated three runs in the first and two more in the second before holding off a late Mustangs’ run in a 5-4 home loss in Heart of Iowa Athletic Conference play.

The win completed the season sweep for Saydel, but both games were decided by a single run.

PCM got within 5-1 with a run in the second and then closed the gap with another run in the third. Neither team scored again until the Mustangs plated two in the seventh. The home team out-hit Saydel 10-5 but was plagued by two errors.

DeVries and Steenhoek had three hits each to lead the Mustangs, which fell to 5-5 in conference play.

Steenhoek added three RBIs, one run and one steal, DeVries scored one run and stole one base and Farver, Hobbs, Jungling and Hood all had one hit. DeVries leads the Mustangs with 25 total bases.

Hobbs and Webb each had one walk and one run, Jungling drew one walk and Alex Wendt contributed one RBI.

Farver (0-4) took the loss on the mound after allowing five runs — three earned — on four hits, four walks and one hit batter in six innings. He struck out six.

Webb tossed the final frame and surrendered no runs and no hits while striking out two.

Boyd Jones led Saydel (147, 8-2 in the conference) with three hits and two steals and Jace Embry tallied three RBIs.

Ryan Van Houten (3-1) pitched into the seventh inning and got the win after striking out seven and allowing four earned runs.

Bondurant-Farrar 5, PCM 3

BONDURANT — The Mustangs were held to five hits and their pitchers issued seven walks and hit two batters during a narrow loss to Bondurant-Farrar on June 14.

Troy Hyde/PCM Explorer

PCM assistant baseball coach Jason Burns, right, celebrates senior Jacob Wendt’s two-run single in the Mustangs’ five-run sixth frame against Lynnville-Sully on June 11. The Mustangs won the game 9-4.

Troy Hyde/PCM Explorer

PCM junior Trenner Van Dyke pitched the Mustangs to a win over state-ranked Lynnville-Sully on June 11. Two of his three wins this season came against ranked squads.

SOFTBALL

No. 13 PCM ends long losing streak against Saydel

MONROE — A scheduling quirk forced the PCM softball team to play Saydel on back-toback nights, but the Class 3A No. 12 Mustangs ended a seven-game losing streak against the Eagles with a pair of Heart of Iowa Athletic Conference wins last week.

The first game was played on PCM’s home field and it ended in a 10-0, six-inning triumph on June 12. The Mustangs scored nine of their 10 runs in the fourth, fifth and sixth frames.

PCM out-hit Saydel 14-2, led by Libby Winters and Camden Webb, who had three hits apiece.

Tori Lindsay also belted her team-best fourth homer of the season, Hadley Millang clubbed her third big fly and four other players had at least one hit.

It was scoreless after two innings, but PCM went in front 1-0 in the third. The Mustangs plated two in the fourth, four in the fifth and three in the sixth.

Lindsay’s two hits were a homer and a triple and she finished with two runs and three RBIs. Millang added two hits,

a home game earlier this season.

Webb has a school record seven saves and is 3-1 in the circle for the Class 3A No. 13 Mustangs.

two runs and three RBIs. Winters scored one run and stole two bases, Webb scored one run, had one RBI and stole one base and Lillian Humpal finished with one hit, one run, one walk and one RBI.

Addison Steenhoek totaled one hit and one walk, Holly Wood chipped in one hit and one RBI and Lark Drake walked once and scored one run. Steenhoek leads the team with nine walks.

Addi Hudnut had the other hit and Ryan DeVore and Peyton Lathrum each scored one run as courtesy runners.

Rylee Parsons improved to 9-0 in the circle after allowing just two hits and striking out five in four innings. She’s struck out 62 batters in 49 innings and has an earned run average of 1.00.

Webb entered the game with her team up 3-0 and earned the two-inning save. She allowed no runs, no hits and just one walk and struck out three.

Webb now has a school-record seven saves. She’s struck out 43 batters in 40 2/3 innings and her ERA sits at .86.

Saydel (7-7, 7-3 in the

June 20

Softball

PCM at Pella Christian, 7:15 p.m.

Baseball PCM at Roland-Story, 7:30 p.m.

June 21

Softball

PCM at Cardinal, 7:30 p.m.

June 24

Softball

South Hamilton at PCM, 7:30 p.m.

Baseball South Hamilton at PCM, 7:30 p.m.

June 25

Softball

PCM at Knoxville, 7 p.m.

Baseball

PCM at Atlantic, 7:30 p.m.

June 26

Softball

Nevada at PCM, 7:30 p.m.

Baseball Nevada at PCM, 7:30 p.m.

June 27

Softball

BCLUW at PCM, 7:30 p.m.

June 28

Softball

PCM at Des Moines Christian, 5:30 p.m.

Baseball

PCM at Sigourney, 5:30 p.m.

HOIAC) has lost five straight games. The Eagles had one error and Colbie Tenborg finished with two hits.

PCM finished 4-1 in its five games last week against teams with a combined record of 5221.

PCM 4, Saydel 3

DES MOINES — One day after ending a seven-game losing streak against Saydel, the Mustangs played the Eagles again on June 13.

This time, the two teams continued a suspended game from earlier this season. PCM jumped on the Eagles in the first before the suspension and closed out the win with a single run in the fourth and downed its hosts 4-3 during HOIAC action.

It was the Mustangs’ first season sweep of the Eagles since 2019.

PCM (13-2, 9-1) scored three runs in the first, but Saydel tied the game with a run in the second and two in the third.

The Eagles out-hit the Mustangs 9-5 and PCM committed one error.

Parsons and Webb split time in the circle. Parsons started the regularly scheduled game and got four outs. Webb (3-1) began the suspended portion of the game and pitched 2 2/3 innings to get the win.

Webb allowed two earned runs on six hits and struck out three.

Parsons re-entered the game for the final three innings and got the save. She tossed 4 1/3 innings total and surrendered one earned on three hits and four walks and struck out two.

Webb led the offense, too, with two hits, one RBI and one steal. Winters doubled and finished with two RBIs and one run, Lindsay had one hit and one run and Drake had the other hit.

Lindsay leads the team with a .463 on-base percentage and Winters is tied for the team lead with 13 RBIs.

Humpal and Steenhoek both walked, Humpal stole one base and DeVore and Lathrum each scored a run as courtesy runners. Lauren Frantz had three hits to lead the Eagles, while Jenna Davidson struck out nine over

PCM did not commit an error and DeVries belted his first career varsity homer, but it wasn’t enough against the 3A Bluejays, who are receiving votes in the latest state poll.

Jungling led the Mustangs with two hits, while DeVries homered and had three RBIs.

Alex Wendt doubled and scored one run, Hobbs had one hit and two steals and Farver was hit by a pitch and scored one run. Webb also walked once.

Jacob Wendt (1-2) took the pitching loss after allowing five earned runs on three hits, seven walks and one hit batter in 5 2/3 innings.

He struck out four and was pulled after 110 pitches.

Carson Hansen got the final out on a strikeout but not before allowing one hit and hitting one batter.

The Bluejays (13-7) won the game despite committing three errors. Cole Miller (3-1) had one hit and one RBI at the plate and got the pitching win after surrendering two earned runs and striking out eight in six innings.

PCM’s non-conference schedule has featured games against Williamsburg, 1A No. 5 Lynnville-Sully and 3A Pella, Newton and Bondurant-Farrar.

seven innings in the circle.

PCM 10, East Marshall 1 MONROE — The Mustangs jumped on 2A No. 12 East Marshall early and never looked back during a 10-1 non-conference home win on June 11.

The Mustangs had a 15-3 advantage in hits, led by three hits from Humpal and two hits each from Steenhoek, Winters, Hudnut and Wood.

Steenhoek homered, doubled and had three RBIs, Humpal added three RBIs and one steal, Hudnut doubled and scored two runs and Winters and Wood each scored one run and had one RBI.

Lindsay had one hit, one walk and three runs and she was hit by one pitch, Millang homered and had two RBIs, Webb finished with one hit and one run and Drake tallied one hit.

Steenhoek now has three homers and Lindsay is up to a team-best 18 runs and a teammost six hit by pitches.

It was PCM’s third straight win over East Marshall, which got a solo home run from Peyton Grabenbauer in the second.

Parsons earned the win after allowing one earned run and one hit with four strikeouts in four innings.

Webb got the save after surrendering no runs and two hits with two strikeouts in three innings. Morgan Neuroth took the loss for the Mustangs (18-3) after surrendering six earned runs on 15 hits. She struck out six in six innings.

PCM 6, Pleasantville 3

PLEASANTVILLE — The Mustangs used a five-run third frame to put away Pleasantville on June 14.

PCM led 1-0 after two and then the five runs in the second put the Mustangs in front for good and they went on to win 6-3 during a non-conference road game.

The Mustangs out-hit Pleasantville 11-8 and won the game despite committing four errors.

Lindsay led the Mustangs with three hits, one double, one run and one stolen base and Steenhoek, Hudnut and Scarlett Mosher each had two hits.

Hudnut doubled, scored two

West Marshall 14, PCM 3

PRAIRIE CITY — Class 2A No. 1 West Marshall was too much for PCM on June 10.

The Trojans broke open a tie game with a six-run second and added crooked numbers in the third, fourth and sixth during a 14-3, six-inning road win in HOIAC action.

The Mustangs were out-hit 11-5 and committed two errors. PCM pitchers also walked nine batters and hit three. Farver led the PCM bats with two hits, one run and one RBI and Webb had one hit, two walks and one RBI.

Jacob Wendt doubled and scored one run, Hood had one hit and one run and Jungling walked twice and stole one base. Hobbs also walked once.

Jacob Wendt started on the mound and allowed seven earned runs on six hits, three walks and one hit batter in two innings.

Hood pitched one inning and allowed three earned runs on three hits and one walk. He struck out one.

Hansen tossed three innings and surrendered four runs — two earned — on one hit, five walks and two hit batters. He struck out two.

Beckham Desotel led West Marshall (23-1, 10-0) with three hits and four RBIs. Vincent Clawson (4-0) earned the pitching win after striking out six in four innings.

runs and had one RBI, Humpal doubled and tallied one RBI, Mosher doubled and finished with one RBI and Millang doubled and scored one run. DeVore and Winters each scored one run.

Humpal leads the team with five doubles, is tied with Winters with 13 RBIs and has a team-best eight steals.

Winters also got her first career varsity pitching win after allowing an unearned run on two hits with seven strikeouts in five innings.

Parsons tossed 1 1/3 innings and surrendered an unearned run on four hits with two strikeouts. Webb got the final two outs, one by strikeout, to earn her school-record seventh save. Pleasantville (12-7) was led by Kally Wysong, who finished with three hits, one run and one RBI.

West Marshall 6, PCM 4 STATE CENTER — PCM took an early lead against stateranked West Marshall, but the Trojans rallied with a big third inning and edged their visitors, 6-4, to earn a series split this season on June 10.

The Mustangs led the HOIAC contest 1-0 after two, but West Marshall scored four in the third to take the lead and then plated two more in the sixth after PCM tied the game with single runs in the fourth, fifth and sixth.

Humpal doubled, hit a solo home run and scored two runs, Webb had two hits and one RBI and Steenhoek and Hudnut each belted solo homers, too. Drake, Millang and Wood each had one hit, Steenhoek walked once and Lindsay was hit by a pitch. Steenhoek has drawn a team-best nine walks.

Webb (3-1) took the loss after allowing two runs — none earned — on two hits in three innings. She struck out two and PCM committed two errors. Parsons started the game and went three innings. She allowed four earned runs on four hits and two walks. She struck out three.

Taylor Thomas (5-1) got the pitching win for West Marshall (15-4, 9-1) after surrendering four earned runs in six innings. Jillian Karsjens led the offense with two hits.

Farver Jungling

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