School board unanimously approves the decision which received up to 80% neutral or favorable feedback from the community
By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune
In a unanimous decision, the Baxter Community School Board at its February meeting approved moving to a four day school week for the 2025-26 school year. With, on average, 70 to 80 percent of feedback either neutral or in favor of the switch, the district felt strong support to make the change.
“It’s a big undertaking and a big change,” Baxter Superintendent Chris Petersen said. Work started on the idea to move to four days in September, Petersen said. Along with his administrative team and the school board, Petersen began researching what a four day school week would look like for the Baxter community.
One big driver for the district was turnover in the teaching staff year in and year out.
“As we are looking at improving student outcomes and what we can provide for students, one of the things we were noticing consistently over the past three or four years is we are turning over about 25 to 30 percent of our staff (each year). The last school year we had to fill 14 teaching positions and nine of those positions either have zero applicants or one,” Petersen said. “One of the things we talked about was how do we provide the best eduction for kids, which directly ties in to providing high quality teachers, and how do we provide consistency for kids, which means how do we keep those teachers.”
When looking at data, Petersen found that many teachers were leaving Baxter to move to higher paying positions in the greater Des Moines metro area. With public school districts receiving
around 2 percent increases to funding from the state legislature, he knew that Baxter wouldn’t be able to match up to the larger districts.
BAXTER CSD | 3
Jasper County to recruit sheriff’s deputy for the City of Baxter
Jasper County and Mingo share responsibility on East Street bridge replacement
Agreement approved by the board of supervisors, project estimated at $900K
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Jasper County will be sharing costs with City of Mingo to replace a bridge along East Street. The board of supervisors on Feb. 18 approved a 28E agreement
between the county and the small town of about 300 people, and the contract specifically details the division of costs and responsibilities for this project. The bridge, classified as
By Christopher Braunschweig PCM Explorer
Without any kind of law enforcement officer on staff for the City of Baxter, the small town with a population of less than 1,000 people formed an agreement with Jasper County Sheriff’s Office to provide those crucial services. The county board of supervisors approved the agreement at its Feb. 18 meeting.
Sheriff Brad Shutts presented supervisors with a 28E agreement for contracted law enforcement services, which would begin July 1. Unlike the prior agreement already in place between the county and city — which provides only
Soup’s on!
Colfax Fire Department Annual Soup Supper looking to once again raise funds to help the community
By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune
For the 32nd year, the Colfax Fire Department will hold its annual soup supper. Starting at 5 p.m. March 8, people will flood into the fire station
excited to get their fill of tasty soup and yummy desserts all while helping a good cause.
“The soup supper is the biggest fundraiser for the department,” Colfax Fire
SUPPER | 2
40-hours-a-week law enforcement services to be provided to small town
temporary services — this new agreement allows more law enforcement presence.
“Right now we’re doing contract law enforcement, just not at a guaranteed 40 hours of actual physical time up there,” Shutts said. “…It is already in the budget for that additional deputy with the income this contract brings. The first year, I believe, is $130,416. But they are giving us a bunch of equipment to help us out.”
According to a copy of the agreement in the supervisors agenda, the kinds of equipment that will be given to the sheriff’s office include two mobile radios, four portable radios, three computers,
firearms owned or loaned to Baxter, tint and sound meter, breath tests, a handheld mini-radar, bolo wraps and five tasers.
Costs for the deputy include: the annual salary of $70,630; health insurance for $22,000; vehicle costs including insurance and fuel and other equipment for a combined $26,000; IPERS for $6,011; FICA for $5,403; and $372 for long-term disability. In total, this amounts to $130,416. Quarterly payments will be billed to Baxter. Also included the agreement were projected three-year cost increases.
Selection committee is closer to determining candidate for VA director
If applicant is approved by commission, it goes to supervisors for final approval
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
In the coming weeks it is likely the Jasper County Veterans Affairs Commission will hold a meeting to decide who they want as their next director or administrator of the department. Following a successful vote, the matter will then be taken to the Jasper County Board of Super-
visors for final approval. Dennis Simon, director of human resources for Jasper County, said out of the 19 eligible applications, a total of seven people were interviewed by the selection committee. Apart from Simon serving as an advisor, the committee was made up of two commissioners, Supervisor Brandon
Christopher Braunschweig/Jasper County Tribune
Sheriff Brad Shutts of the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office speaks with the county board of supervisors during the Feb. 18 meeting at the courthouse in Newton.
File Photo
The annual Colfax Fire Department Soup Supper is set for 5 p.m. March 8 at the fire station. The event raises funds to be used by the department for the community.
Robert L Brown
Feb. 15, 2025
Obituaries
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church or Quarry Springs Park. Condolences may be left for the family at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com
Crop Production Services, Bob retired in 1995 after 26 years in the fertilizer and farm chemical industry.
Robert L Brown, age 91 of Colfax, passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at MercyOne in Newton. Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 11:00 am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Colfax. The family will greet friends for one hour prior to the service on Thursday at the church. Burial will take place at Colfax Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to
Joseph Martin Hadsall
Feb. 18, 2025
The son of Clyde and Sadie (Issacson) Brown, Bob was born on November 30, 1933, in Colfax. He graduated from Colfax High School in 1952. On January 28, 1961, he was united in marriage to Joyce Ann Evans. After High School, Bob began working in the trucking business with his father. In 1964, he worked as the plant manager for Spencer Chemical Company. In 1969, he took the same position with Kerr-McGee Company in Mingo. Through several name changes to Agrico and eventually
During his retirement, Bob had the pleasure of being a consultant with Agrium Chemical Company, making several trips to Argentina. He also enjoyed working for Helena Chemical Company delivering chemicals throughout Iowa.
Bob was a lifelong member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. He was very proud to also be a lifelong resident of Colfax. He served for many years with the Colfax Volunteer Fire Department and on the City Council. Bob loved following and especially tailgating
at Iowa Hawkeye games. He enjoyed traveling with Joyce and a close group of friends. Bob was known to put on an awesome fish fry. He took great pride in his yard and won the Christmas Display contest several times. Those left to honor his memory include his two sons, Jeff (Darcy) Brown and Todd (Marianne) Brown; three grandchildren, Annie (Colton) Jungjohan, Rachel Brown and Grant Brown; four great grandchildren, Keaton, Paisley, Harper, and Bowie and his brother, Don Brown. Preceding Bob in death were his parents, wife, Joyce in 2020, granddaughter, Samantha Brown and his siblings, Marcella, Shirley and Bill.
18th annual state archery tournament begins Feb. 28
An estimated 2,200 students from more than 140 schools from across Iowa will be in the Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center (Bullseye) and the 4H Building (3D) at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines from Feb. 28 to March 2, to participate in the 18th Annual National Archery in the Schools Program State Tournament. This is the largest youth archery tournament in Iowa.
which will allow 60 participants to shoot at a time.
Admission is $5 for those 19 and older; 18 and younger are admitted for free.
Archers Shoot for College Cash & Equipment Archers participating in the Iowa Archery in the Schools Program can earn money for college. More than $10,000 will be awarded in college scholarships based on performance at the state tournament.
Joseph Martin Hadsall, age 91, of Marshalltown, passed away on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at Harmony in Marshalltown under the care of Iowa River Hospice.
At this time no services will be held. Condolences may be left for Joe’s family at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com. If you wish to send a card, please address it to, “Attn: Joe Hadsall, Coburn Funeral Home, 24 W Howard St, Colfax, IA 50054.” The son of Lewis C. and Elsie A. (Daft) Hadsall, Joe was born on July 8, 1933, in Colfax. He graduated from Colfax High School in 1951. On July 11, 1953, he was united in marriage to Donna Cross in
Colfax. Joe and Donna moved from Colfax to Ablilene, Kansas for two years, then Grinnell for a year before making their home in Marshalltown in 1964. Joe worked at Maytag and then was drafted into the US Army where he proudly served for two years. Following his time in the Army, Joe became a financial advisor. He loved the work he did and was a natural people person. Above all, Joe loved his family deeply.
Those left to honor Joe’s memory include
his daughters; Debra (Steve) Lindeman and Diana (Larry) Couch, his two son-in-law’s; Dave Tychsen and Wes Etter. 14 grandchildren, and many great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife; Donna (Cross) Hadsall, parents; Lewis and Elsie (Daft) Hadsall, two daughters; Susan Tychsen and Shelley Etter, his brothers; Robert Hadsall, Vern Hadsall, and Richard Hadsall, and a sister; June Wurtz.
Winter weather impacts local blood supply
Extreme winter weather has caused widespread disruptions across the Midwest, resulting in canceled blood drives and closures of LifeServe Blood Center Donor Centers across Iowa, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Illinois. Unfortunately, this has led to the loss of more than 900 blood donations, significantly impacting the supply of lifesaving blood products for patients in need.
The need for blood in our hospitals is constant - regardless of weather. LifeServe alone needs 2,600 red blood cells collected per week to meet the needs of patients who rely on blood transfusions for surgeries, cancer treatments, trauma care and more. Without a steady flow of donations, we risk being in a dangerous situation where hospitals could face shortages and be unable to take care of their patients. You can help right now! We’re calling on our communities to step up and act. If your blood donation was canceled due to weather, please reschedule as soon as possible. If you’ve nev-
er donated before, now is the perfect time to get involved and make a difference in someone’s life. Your donation can save up to three lives. Local blood drive are scheduled for:
• Kellogg and Killduff Communities Blood Drive will be from 2 to 6:20 p.m. March 11 at Kellogg United Methodist Church-Fellowship Hall, 417 Second Street
• Newton Community Blood Drive is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 14 at DMACC Newton Conference Center-Second Floor, 600 N. Second Ave. W.
• Prairie City & Monroe Community Blood Drive will be from 7:15 to 10:30 a.m. March 15 at First Reformed Church, 300 E. Fifth St. in Prairie City
• Newton Community Blood Drive is from 12:30 to 6 p.m. March 20 at Community Heights Church Gathering Place, 2500 S. 13th Ave.)
• Colfax and Mingo Communities Blood Drive will be from 7:15 to 11:30 a.m. March 29 in the Bloodmobile at Colfax United Methodist Church, 7 S. Locust St.
in Colfax
To schedule your appointment, call 800-287-4903 or visit lifeservebloodcenter.org. To schedule your lifesaving appointment, visit lifeservebloodcenter.org or call 800.287.4903.
LifeServe Blood Center is a non-profit, community-based blood center that has served the needs of local hospitals and patients in our region since 1947. As one of the 15 largest blood centers in the country, LifeServe provides blood products to 175 hospitals primarily in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Illinois. LifeServe is committed to saving lives by providing premier service to volunteer blood donors and access to a safe, quality blood supply for hospitals and patients. Your donation with LifeServe will help save your neighbor, a friend or family member or a stranger on the street.
You make a difference in your community. For more information about blood donation or to schedule an appointment to donate blood, call 800-287-4903 or visit lifeservebloodcenter.org.
Average professional retiring shortly after turning 60
A high cost of living and advancements in medicine that have contributed to longer life expectancies would seemingly compel individuals to work longer, but data indicates the average professional is retiring shortly after turning 60.
Data from the 2024 MassMutual Retirement Happiness Study indicates that the average retirement age among American retirees is 62. That’s in spite of the fact that pre-retirees and retirees who participated in the study indicated that 63 is the ideal retirement age. Canadians are staying in the workforce a good deal longer, as Statistics Canada reports the average retire-
Find
ment age across Canada in 2023 was 65.1.
That disparity could be due to the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), which replaces part of retirees’ income with a monthly, taxable benefit. The Government of Canada reports the standard age to start the CPP is 65. — Metro Creative
here
Iowa student participation in the National Archery in the Schools Program has grown each year beginning from scratch in 2006 to now more than 4,800 participants in 2025.
“The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) is one of the finest youth sports programs in Iowa. It teaches discipline, focus, and perseverance while giving students of all skill levels an opportunity to excel. NASP not only promotes physical activity but also fosters confidence, personal development, and an appreciation for the sport of archery,” said Zach Benttine, archery coordinator for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Competition begins Friday at 5p.m., then resumes at 8 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday for the bullseye and 3D competitions. There will be 50 targets set up for bullseye, which will allow 100 participants to shoot at a time. There will be 30 targets set up for 3D,
An additional $13,000 will be awarded outside of the state competition to archers participating in the program based on academics, essays, and other established criteria.
In addition to scholarships, teams receiving placement at the state tournament will also be eligible to receive an estimated $18,000 in equipment for their schools.
Scholarships are provided by Iowa Hunter Education Instructor Association, Pheasants Forever/ Quail Forever, Whitetails Unlimited, Iowa Bowhunters Association, Safari Club International, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Haney Family Foundation, Chuck Hallier Memorial, and the National Archery in the Schools Program.
For more information on the Iowa Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) visit www.iowadnr.gov/ nasp.
Supper
Continuedfrompage1
Fighter Dennis Lester said. “It has helped keep the department up to date on things big and small.”
Along with helping with fighting fire and caring for firefighters, the department looks to use these funds to purchase a new defibrillator. What used to be a $10,000 purchase is nearly $40,000 today, Lester said.
“While today the defibrillator can do much more than just deliver a for first responders, it comes with a price tag,” Lester said.
On the menu is the classic firehouse chili and famous Ron’s potato soup along with a variety of fruits and vegetables and desserts donated by volunteers. The supper is a free will donation event. Checks can be made payable to the Colfax Fire Association. Come pack the station and help the community volunteers continue their life-saving work in Colfax.
“We started looking to see if there is something we can do to level the playing field to get and retain high quality teachers,” Petersen said.
When researching districts in the state that had converted to four day school weeks, Petersen found Martensdale-St. Marys as a close comparable for Baxter. With similar student body sizes, open enrollment numbers and distances from metro areas, it was a good place to learn how it might impact Baxter.
“I spent quite a bit of time with their superintendent asking questions, learning the process they used, which we in turn used when planning ours,” Petersen said. “Most importantly, I asked him, ‘Did the retention change for you when you made the move?’ He said the year before they switched they had 15 teacher openings. Once they made the move they only had three openings.”
Looking closer at the data before the switch, Martensdale-St. Marys had four elementary positions open and only received six applications. The next year after moving to four days, the district had two elementary openings with 19 applications received for one position and 16
JCSO
By fiscal year 2027, the fee for Baxter will increase by 6 percent to $140,621. The next year it will increase by 3 percent to $144,840. The year after that it will increase by 3 percent to $149,185.
The deputy assigned to Baxter will work a minimum average of 40 hours per week within the
Mingo
Continuedfrompage1
Bridge F04, is over a small stream on North East Street, whose right-of-way jurisdiction is shared between Mingo and Jasper County.
County Engineer Michael Frietsch said the agreement clearly states that the county will own the new bridge — just as it owns the current bridge — and that secondary roads will take care of the necessary maintenance and inspections of
for the other.
“It was quite a drastic change in their applicant pool,” Petersen said.
As the leadership teams moved forward with the research, the move to reach out to the community and get opinions from locals on how they felt about the change.
An community information meeting was held in December with about 150 people in attendance. A 2024 survey was also made available to everyone in the community to learn opinions and concerns about the idea.
“We let people know early on that really it isn’t going to be a decision made by the school board or superintendent; it is going to be based on the data we receive from the parents and public,” Petersen said. “The initial survey data came in. And even with a second survey it stayed really consistent with 75 to 80 percent of the people either neutral or in favor.”
The district released a FAQ document addressing questions and concerns along with holding a public forum with both Martensdale-St. Marys and Saydel superintendents, who both have four day school weeks, in attendance.
“They shared their experience both from concerns and the planning process and once it was implemented,” Petersen said.
One concern the district wanted to address was child care. The school itself does
incorporated area. The sheriff’s office still reserves the right to reassign a deputy at any time to an emergency call outside of the incorporated area of Baxter. Services will also be provided seven days a week.
Apart from routine patrols in Baxter, the deputy will also enforcement state laws and investigate and follow up crimes. The city and its attorney will be responsible for all municipal code violations and dangerous building offenses. Traffic and vehicle
the new bridge. The City Highway Bridge Program will reimburse the project.
“We are also going to go ahead and reimburse Mingo for their work for acquiring the right-ofway on their side,” Frietsch said. “We’re going to agree to them $5,000 maximum as compensation back to them for their right-of-way they got on the west side of the bridge. Essentially that’s what this is doing.”
East Street is a county road for about 0.3 miles from Iowa Highway 117 North. Frietsch noted the westernmost portion of
not run a child care center but it wants to be active in helping parents with any struggles they may have as it moves to no school on Mondays.
“We have a care center across from the school. While we don’t provide care we could provide them space,” Petersen said. “We also had some high school students and paras approach us about baby-sitting or providing care.”
A surprising finding from the other districts was how child care started out as a big concern but once the switch was implemented it wasn’t mentioned as an issue.
“After talking to 10 different districts they said daycare was the number one issue at the onset and it has not been an issue since,” Petersen said.
Two additional concerns were academic performance and the length of the school day. The district previously shared research has found there is little to no negative impact on academic achievement. Districts that operate with 30 or more student hours per week showed no significant impact on student achievement.
“(The switch) adds 40 minutes to the school day,” Petersen said. “As we looked at our calendar this year and the number of student contact hours we have this year, we actually will have almost identical student contact hours next year. We don’t really lose that academic time.”
violations and public offenses will be filed by the sheriff’s office.
If the city is to hold a special event such as RAGBRAI or Baxter Fun Days during the term of this agreement, the cost of additional law enforcement necessary to provide coverage during these events — as determined by the sheriffs office and approved by the city — shall be covered by Baxter as reimbursement.
The deputy will have access to the Baxter Police Department building.
the road belongs to Mingo.
“This enables us to then be able to leverage those City Bridge (Construction) Funds that they got, and it allows us to go ahead and proceed with this project as far as the contract goes,” Frietsch said, noting another version of the contract had already been signed by the Mingo City Council prior to the board meeting.
Construction costs for the bridge are estimated at $900,000. Supervisor Brandon Talsma said the bridge project is almost two years in the making.
As for why the district selected Mondays, Petersen once again listened to the public.
“We did Mondays for a few different reasons,” Petersen said. “In the past, we had a PD and a lot of holidays fall on Mondays, so it felt like more of an easier transition. We got some feedback to leave Fridays alone, feedback from the community to have it be on a Monday.”
As the move to four days goes into effect, work on how it is impacting students and staff will not stop. As with any new program or change, leaders will continue to evaluate it as the school year progresses.
“One thing that we will do is after we implement this next year we’re consistently evaluating it and reevaluating it,” Petersen said. “Both from an academic standpoint and a community-feeling standpoint, extracurricular, all of those concerns, we are going to make sure we reevaluate on a continuous basis.”
With the decision made, work will begin to take the research and potential plans and make them a reality.
“Now that we move into the transition phase we’re working with each staff group. What does it look like for curriculum. What does it look like for extra curricular transportation on Mondays,” Petersen said. “Now we can go into the planning.”
Shutts said the Baxter City Council had already approved the 28E agreement by the time he presented it to the Jasper County Board of Supervisors. The sheriff said the position will also be posted internally for anyone who wants to have it. So the deputy for Baxter could be an existing employee.
However, the sheriff’s office would then need to fill that open deputy position. Supervisor Brandon Talsma spoke favorably with the agreement, saying it will
Director
Continuedfrompage1
Talsma and Mike Gunsaulus.
“I thought we had very good candidates,” Simon said. “There is no individual that is turn key and has sat in the VSO position or has current or prior accreditations. So whoever would be coming in would be starting from Day One going through the training. As we know with (employee) Josh (Price) it will take about a year.”
benefit Baxter and benefit the sheriff’s office. Talsma suggested finding law enforcement in small towns is an issue in other surrounding counties.
“They’ve struggled over the past years with maintaining a police chief and a workforce up there,” Shutts said of the city, whose police chief and other city staff resigned in early 2024. “It’s not that we hire people easier than what they do, but it just takes a lot off their shoulders and we can take care of them.”
general assistance for just over a year now. Simon said the committee was very pleased with two of the applicants but could not come to a final determination.
“I’m going to schedule another meeting where we (the selection committee) can get together and hopefully finalize our recommendation,” Simon said, noting he would be in contact with the chair of the commission to see if a special meeting needs to be held or wait until the scheduled March 12 meeting.
Recently, Price was able to acquire his necessary accreditations. He has been working as the shared benefits coordinator for veterans affairs and
If the commission agrees with the committee’s choice, then Simon said his job is to then setup drug tests, background checks and develop a hiring resolution
for the county board of supervisors to authorize payroll and benefits. He said by next week he could see some progress. It depends on when the committee can meet. Commissioner Marta Ford noted that since the veterans affairs commission just went through what the accreditation process looks like for Price, it should make it easier for the upcoming director, too. They know what to do now, she said, and they know how long it takes. Ford said the commission has better guidelines. Simon said as the director goes through the process, Price will get to act as a mentor and access the system to do some work under his supervision.
Combatting the fentanyl crisis
The fentanyl crisis has become one of the most pressing challenges our nation faces. According to the CDC, fentanyl is now the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-45 and is responsible for over 70 percent of all drug-related deaths in the U.S. In 2022, 469 Iowans and more than 100,000 Americans died from fentanyl overdoses.
Tragically, the numbers have continued to rise in 2023 and 2024, with the death toll reaching even higher levels than in previous years. The devastating impact on families, communities,
IFMA
U.S. Rep.
Mariannette Miller-Meeks
and the nation as a whole is staggering. Immediate action is critical to end this epidemic. Unfortunately, the crisis has worsened under the Biden-Harris administration, with loose border policies that have enabled drug cartels to flood our country with deadly fentanyl. These cartels exploit vulnerabilities in our border security, bringing in record amounts of fentanyl that end up on our streets, in our schools, and in our homes. But there is hope. Under the leadership of the Trump administration, significant strides were made to secure the border and curb the flow
opposed to SF 310 – urges lawmakers
‘please
don’t make fire safety illegal’
Our organization represents the men and women who are charged with fire code development and enforcement, public education, and fire investigations for communities in Iowa that have dedicated personnel in these areas of service delivery.
Today, we are urging lawmakers to vote NO to SF 310. This proposed legislation compromises safety in Iowa, puts our residents and firefighters at risk, and prioritizes profit margins above fire safety. Many Iowa communities adopt local code requirements that are appropriate for their community. This legislation unnecessarily removes home rule and considers all Iowa communities in the same way. Fire department capabilities and acceptable risk vary greatly throughout Iowa. When a community recognizes prudent code requirements for development within their local community, they should not be pre-empted by state legislation.
Specific points to consider when considering this legislation include:
1. Iowa already lags behind national averages for fire death rate. The US Fire Administration (which compiles fire data) indicates that the fire death rate in Iowa is 11.3 deaths per 1,000 residential fires (calendar year 2022) which is nearly twice the national average of 6.1 deaths. Prohibiting communities from requiring fire sprinklers (which are highly effective at preventing deaths and minimizing fire impact) is reckless. Prohibiting sprinklers in residential buildings is akin to prohibiting requirements for seat belts in automobiles, it just doesn’t make sense.
2. Removing requirements for safeguards puts firefighters and the public at greater risk. Iowa’s fire departments are running more calls for service – this leaves less firefighters available to handle other calls, which means less firefighters available to fight townhome residential fires. Compounding the issue is the larger size of townhomes (as compared to most single family detached homes) – which requires more firefighters to fight the fire.
3. Preserve local control. Iowans know best what is best for Iowa. Likewise, each city and town in Iowa know best what is right for their community. Local control (home rule) is a central Tenet to Iowans and should be preserved. The local community knows what their fire department is capable of and how best to protect their residents. Let these communities decide what level of protection is appropriate. Iowa Fire Marshals Association (IFMA)
SHARE YOUR VIEW
Letters to the Newton News 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.
Unsigned editorials are the opinion of the Newton News as an institution. 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 Daily News, P.O. Box 967, Newton, Iowa 50208.
Our District YOUR VIEW
of illicit drugs, including fentanyl. I’m working alongside them to strengthen these efforts and ensure we stop the cartels from exploiting our southern border.
As a member of Congress, I am committed to doing everything I can to fight this growing crisis and protect the lives of Iowans and all Americans. One important step forward in this battle is the recent passage of H.R. 467, the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act, or the HALT Fentanyl Act. This bill will make the current temporary Schedule I classification for fentanyl — and any substance mixed with it — permanent. By doing so, it will give law enforcement the tools they need to stop these dangerous drugs from entering our communities and wreaking havoc, without hampering it’s legitimate use for surgery. It will also support research to better understand the
effects of fentanyl-related substances on public health, ensuring that we can more effectively respond to this crisis. Additionally, we continue our efforts to make narcan & naloxone readily available to treat overdoses, reduce barriers for substance use disorder treatment and educate young people on the dangers of fentanyl-laced medications.
The fentanyl epidemic requires swift and decisive action, and we cannot afford to wait as more lives are lost. I am proud to support the HALT Fentanyl Act and will continue to push for policies that protect our communities, strengthen border security, and provide law enforcement with the resources they need to combat drug trafficking.
I will remain focused on doing everything I can to keep Iowans safe and to strengthen efforts to stop fentanyl from reaching our streets.
Supporting the supers
In regards to a recent letter to the editor in the newspaper from
Keep it local
I just learned that the city council is considering dropping Dodd’s Trash Hauling and replacing their services with some other non-local company.
Are they out of their minds? Has Dodd’s not provided excellent customer service for 58 years? The answer is YES! Are Newton residents complaining about Dodd’s? The answer is NO!
I can’t believe the city would even consider dropping Dodd’s,
Mr. Moore, I also applaud the county supervisors for foregoing their own pay raise. Mr. Moore the ball is in your court. I suggest you move it forward. Take out nomination papers for the next election. I will be the first to
for what? To save a few dollars. Is that all that matters now? Does excellent service and a decades-long proven commitment to the community mean nothing at all now? I’ll quote the CEO’s wife in the movie National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, upon learning her husband has cut out Christmas bonuses for employees that year, “What a lousy way to save a buck!” Yeah, what a lousy way to treat a long-time partner of Newton and Jasper County. Randy Ervin gave the best argument against
Protect the health of the working farmers
Once again. Senator Rosenboom made a misjudgment based on bias. I, a cisgendered female, sat in that Feb. 15 legislative forum with my chemo bald head. He needs to stop judging people by their appearance. He needs to realize that women own 47 percent of Iowa farm ground and 39 percent of those female owners actively farm (Des Moines Register, June 29, 2018). That’s a significant number of farming constituents. How many other constituents does he judge based on appearance? I can step outside my home and see several other farmsteads where the farmers have had or currently have cancer. How is the delayed action by the state to deal with the second highest can-
sign your papers. But I will support Mr. Talsma if he chooses to see re-election. He does a super job for looking out for the Jasper County taxpayers’ interest. Marvin Rorabaugh Colfax
this ridiculous proposal when he pointed out that not only is Dodd’s a local company, hiring local residents, but they actually care about and participate in this community. Dodd’s has done nothing to deserve termination. I would hope you all would listen to Randy Ervin and emphatically reject this idea of replacing them and show some community pride and keep them as our waste and recycling provider.
John Moore Newton
cer rate in the country helping farmers? While the legislature is spending their limited session time protecting large corporations, more farmers, including women farmers, other minority farmers, and farmworkers will be diagnosed with cancer. Who’s gonna feed us? Who’s gonna fill their shoes? We want to see action and transparency, not a decrease in the available funding. And no, a million bucks is nowhere near enough to deal with the issue.
Linda Wormley Newton
How to contact your elected officials Jasper County Supervisors
Brandon Talsma, chair 4309 W Fourth St. S. Newton, IA 50208 641-526-3142
btalsma@jasperia.org
Doug Cupples, vice chair 1205 S. 20th Ave. W. Newton, IA 50208 641-521-8725 dcupples@jasperia.org
Thad Nearmyer 4360 S. 96th Ave. W. Monroe, IA 50170 641-891-8863
tnearmyer@jasperia.org
Apply now for 2025 landowner education program
Iowa landowners may apply to participate in the 2025 Landowner Education Program offered by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. The application window is open until April 4. Program events will take place in June and July.
The program is intended for landowners who are interested in learning about soil health and conservation, and whose land is dedicated primarily to row crops. The program consists of two online workshops and five in-person events in the Ames-Ankeny area of central Iowa. There is no cost to participate, thanks to program sponsorships, but space is limited.
The Landowner Education Program brings together Iowa State experts on conservation, agronomy, economics and law, noted Catherine DeLong, water quality program manager with ISU Extension and Outreach.
“There are many steps between interest in conservation practices and implementation,” DeLong said. “This can include discussing with family members or other land beneficiaries, speaking with a lawyer to adapt or create a written lease, discussing practices with a tenant including cost-share of any expenses, equipment needs, etc.
Hearing from the experts can help
Iowa State University
A prior landowner education group learning about soil health and conservation, and whose land is dedicated primarily to row crops.
landowners navigate the agronomic, legal, financial and relational aspects to managing their land for soil health.”
“The Landowner Education Program also includes a survey to understand what the participating landowners would like to learn about. We take that into account as we develop the program and create a curated educational plan that uses the landowners’ time thoughtfully,” said Julia Baker, natural resource program specialist, who co-leads the program with DeLong.
The program also provides the opportunity for interactive learn-
ing and networking with fellow landowners. Carolyn Harryman was a member of the program’s 2024 cohort.
“As I worked with other members of the group, I feel there are many landowners in Iowa that may not have been directly working with the family farming operation until more recently, as is my situation,” Harryman said. “The array of topics covered was outstanding and greatly helped me improve my farming knowledge.”
The online application for the 2025 program is available from the Landowner Education Program webpage.
Community Calendar
Send items to news@jaspercountytribune.com
THURSDAY
• AMVETS meets at 7 p.m. the fourth Thursday of month at the Colfax Fire Station.
• Mingo Park & Recreation regular meeting meets at 6:30 p.m. the last Thursday of month at City Hall
SATURDAY
• Poweshiek Partners 4-H club meets at 9 a.m. the first Saturday of the month in the C-M Elementary lunchroom
MONDAY
• BEDCO meets at 5:30 p.m. the first Monday of month
• Colfax Cub Scouts Pack 345 meets at 7 p.m. the first Monday of month in the C-M High School Cafetorium
• Colfax Planning & Zoning meets at 7 p.m. the first Monday of month at the library
TUESDAY
• Mingo Library Board meets at 5 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month (public meeting)
• Baxter American Legion meets at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of month at the Baxter Community Building
WEDNESDAY
• Hominy Ridge 4-H Club meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of month in the Baxter School Cafeteria
• Colfax Public Library Board of Trustees meets at 5 p.m. the first Wednesday of month in the downstairs meeting room.
• MEDCO meets the first Wednesday of month
• Baxter City Library Board meets at 7 p.m. the first Wednesday of month at the Baxter Library
3 simple ways to get back in creditors’ good graces
A robust credit rating is a key component of a strong financial foundation. There’s a reason consumers’ credit histories are important to landlords, car dealerships and mortgage lenders. Adults who can demonstrate a track record of sound financial decision-making and responsible money management are seen as safer bets by landlords and lenders than those who have shaky payment histories.
Young adults may not recognize the significance of a strong credit rating until their financial reputations have already taken a hit. Indeed, the Urban Institute reported in late 2024 that 16 percent of young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 with a credit record had debt in collections. Such individuals and older adults who have struggled to make ends meet without taking on debt may one day aspire to own a home or secure a favorable auto loan, and each goal is more difficult for consumers with poor credit ratings to achieve if they
HOWARD ST. CHRISTIAN CHURCH
(Disciples of Christ)
Pastor Josh Burns 101 N. Locust St., Colfax Cell - 515-779-3148
SUNDAY - 10 a.m. Fellowship;10:30 a.m. Worship, in person or online via YouTube
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
cannot restore their reputation in the eyes of prospective creditors. Thankfully, consumers can take three simple steps to rebuild their credit.
1. Start paying on time. One of the fastest ways to build debt is to skip or miss payments on consumer debts like credit cards. When that happens, consumers must pay percentage-based interest charges, which can be especially high on credit cards. When borrowers don’t pay on time, relatively small debts can quickly balloon, costing consumers sizable amounts of money and threatening their financial reputations. In addition, the financial experts at NerdWallet point out that late payments can stay on a credit report for more than seven years, which underscores the significance of paying bills on time each month.
2. Utilize as little credit as possible. Credit utilization ratio is one of the variables reporting agencies like Experian use to determine consumers’ credit
ratings. Overutilization of credit adversely affects a credit score, so consumers with poor credit histories are urged to avoid using credit cards when they have funds available in their savings or checking accounts. Consumers now have readily available access to information that determines their credit scores, and that includes their credit utilization ratio. Monitor that ratio and make a concerted effort to keep it low. Data from Experian gathered in the third quarter of 2022 revealed that the average utilization ratio among consumers whose credit scores were considered excellent was 6.5 percent, while those whose scores were considered fair had a ratio of 56.1 percent. Individuals whose scores were considered poor (between 300 and 579) had an average utilization ratio of 82.1 percent. The disparity in these ratios underscores their significance in relation to building a strong financial reputation.
3. Apply for a secured cred-
it card. NerdWallet notes that secured credit cards can be the right vehicles for individuals who need to start over in relation to their credit histories. The credit reporting agency Equifax notes secured credit cards require cash deposits that are used to insure purchases made on credit. Secured credit cards are ideal for borrowers who have been deemed highrisk due to past mistakes. Pay-
Church Schedules
SUNDAY - 9:30 a.m. Church service; 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
SUNDAY, March 2 - 9 a.m. Fellowship; 9:15 a.m. Bible Education Classes; 10:25 a.m. Communion Sunday, Message by Pastor Cody Dyer; 5 p.m. “The Well” Youth Group MONDAY, March 3 - 6 p.m. Deacon/Deaconess meetings TUESDAY, March 4 - 3 p.m.
Women’s Prayer and Coffee
WEDNESDAY, March 5 - 9 a.m. Busy Bee Quilters and Fresh Encounter Prayer; 5:45 p.m. AWANA Family Meal; 6:25 p.m. AWANA Clubs
SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH
Newton, Iowa
SATURDAY - 4 p.m. Mass
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Mass
COLFAX FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
S. Locust & W. Division St. Office - 674-3782
Rev. Phil Dicks pastor
SUNDAY - 10:30 a.m. Family Worship with Holy Communion; Sunday School
HOPE ASSEMBLY OF GOD
126 E. Howard Rev. Paul Avery, pastor Church: 674-3700 hopeassemblyofgod@yahoo.com
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday school; 10 a.m. Worship
WEDNESDAY - 7 p.m. Evening Service
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
CATHOLIC CHURCH
302 E. Howard St., Colfax Fr. Marty Goetz
515-674-3711
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Mass
DAILY MASS - 8 a.m.
MINGO UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Rev. Phil Dicks 515-689-4926
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Worship service (Sunday school not meeting at this time)
ASHTON CHAPEL
8887 W. 122nd St. N., Mingo Pastors: Larry Craig & Mark Eddy
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday school; 10 a.m. Worship
BETHANY UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 5627 N. 95th Ave. W., Baxter 641-227-3402
Pastor Chris Hayward
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday School (Sunday after Labor Day to second Sunday in May); 10 a.m. Sunday Worship. First Sunday communion. All are welcome. baxterbethanyucc.org
EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH BAXTER Mike Mclintock, Pastor
WEDNESDAYS - 1st & 3rd6:30 p.m. Mens Bible Study 2nd & 4th - 6:30 p.m. Men’s and Womens Bible Study
THURSDAYS 10 a.m. - Womens Bible Study
ment histories on secured credit cards can be recorded and shared with reporting agencies, which makes them a valuable asset for individuals who need to demonstrate an ability to pay bills on time
Consumers can consider these three strategies and others as they seek to rebuild their credit and get back in the good graces of lenders.
BAXTER CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 218 S. Main, Baxter Pastor Ben Spera Church: 641-227-3382
SUNDAY - 10 a.m. Worship
WEDNESDAY - 6 p.m. Bible Study
THIRD THURSDAY of month - 6:30 p.m. Theology on Tap at Bea’s Place on Main Street Check us out on Facebook and baxtercongregational.com
CORNERSTONE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP 1000 E. 12th St., Newton Rev. Josh Farver, pastor Phone 641-792-4650
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday school; 10:15 a.m. Worship
WEDNESDAY - 6:30 p.m. Prayer Meeting and Bible Study; Youth Group
HERITAGE WORD OF LIFE
ASSEMBLY OF GOD
102 Second St. NW, Mitchellville Pastor Dave Adams 515-967-3330
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF HOPE Capitol II Theatre in Newton SUNDAY - 9:30 a.m. Livestream Worship Service
C-M’s Sykes, Dybevik win twice at state tourney
By Troy Hyde Sports Editor
Colfax-Mingo senior Caden Sykes was able to do in one season what many high school wrestlers are unable to do in their entire four-year careers.
And then he came to Wells Fargo Arena and won a pair of matches during the Iowa High School Boys State Wrestling Championships.
“It was an experience, and it was an honor to be here,” Sykes said. “I give all the glory to my coaches. I’m here because of them. They are amazing people and amazing coaches. Having them in my corner has made my first and only season of wrestling pretty special.”
Sykes and C-M junior Teagan Dybevik both finished 2-2 at the state wrestling tournament. They needed a few more wins to reach the medal stand, but the Tigerhawks ended their seasons on the biggest stage despite facing some challenges along the way.
Sykes (39-8) had to overcome simply not having as much experience as others because the only season in which he finished was this one.
Dybevik (21-5) was in and out of the lineup with injuries this winter and spent some of this state tournament battling through a shoulder injury that sidelined him for stints during the season.
They also both ran into some tough opponents along their paths and scored impressive wins, too.
Sykes won his opening round match at 175 pounds, 9-3, against Kingsley-Pierson’s Calvin Harvey on Feb. 19.
And then defeated South Central Calhoun’s Cooper Nattress 5-2 in his first elimination match.
Sykes’ losses came against 1A No. 3 Justin Wirtz of Emmetsburg and 1A No. 8 Bode Stanley of Interstate 35.
Dybevik pinned both Hudson’s Alston Loeb and Treynor’s Maverrick Kalb at 285 but lost by fall to Missouri Valley’s Vinny Zappia.
He also suffered a 9-6 loss in SV-1 to ninth-ranked Grant Gray of Northeast on Feb. 19.
“(The tournament) is hard and a lot of it’s not a perfect system,” Colfax-Mingo head boys wrestling coach Stacey Rice said. “Some of it has to do with where you fall in the bracket.”
Sykes led Harvey (37-14) 3-1 after one period and 3-2 after two. He won the match with a takedown with 32 seconds left
and added a takedown in the closing seconds for the 9-3 win by decision.
He moved to the back side of the bracket after the loss to Wirtz.
Sykes trailed Wirtz 6-1 after one and then lost by fall in the second.
Wirtz (40-3) ended up fifth on the medal stand.
In his first elimination match, Sykes jumped out to an early lead against Nattress (4116) and got back points to go
up 5-0. It was 5-1 after two and ended up that way after three, too.
The Tigerhawk senior was never really in the match against Stanley, who won by technical fall. It was 3-0 after one and 7-0 after two before Stanley (42-10) won 16-1.
“I was pushing for the podium, but you can see the different levels to this thing when you get here,” Sykes said. “I tried to have the mindset of I’ve been here before, but in reality, most
of these guys wrestle all year round and doing offseason freestyle.
“They take it very serious. Those guys are special, and I definitely experienced that with my last match.”
Dybevik rallied to win his first match against Loeb (30-12) but lost a big lead against Zappia.
In the win over Loeb, Dybevik trailed 6-1 after one and 11-6 in the second before winning by fall.
The closest match for Dybevik came against ninth-ranked Gray (45-4) in the second round. He led 3-0 early and 5-2 after the first but trailed 6-5 in the second.
Dybevik got an escape in the third to tie it, but Gray scored a takedown in the final seconds of SV-1 to win 9-6.
Gray finished seventh in the weight class.
“Teagan lost to a guy in overtime yesterday and then comes back today to win a match,” Rice said. “The kid he lost to yesterday lost a close one today. That’s how close Teagan is.” His first elimination match came against Kalb (22-22). He scored the first takedown but led 3-2 after one. He got an escape in the second to go up 4-2 before winning by fall. Dybevik could not get to Day 3 though after losing by fall to Zappia. He led 6-1 after one and 12-3 after two. The lead grew to 15-5 in the third, but Zappia (42-13) won by fall with 1:14 to go.
“His mindset has transitioned from I don’t believe I can get there to maybe I can get there to now I know I belong here,” Rice said about Dybevik. “It’s driving him a little more.
“We’ve talked. He’s made huge strides, but there things he absolutely needs to work on.”
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Colfax-Mingo senior Caden Sykes, right, won two matches at his first and only state wrestling tournament on Feb. 19 and Feb. 20.
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Top: Colfax-Mingo senior Caden Sykes finished 2-2 in his only state wrestling tournament at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. Left: Colfax-Mingo junior Teagan Dybevik reacts to his come-from-behind win at the state wrestling tournament on Feb. 20 at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines.
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Colfax-Mingo junior Teagan Dybevik, top, won twice by fall and lost a match in overtime at the state wrestling tournament on Feb. 19 and Feb. 20 inside Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines.
CONRAD — Karlee Koehler buried a career-best six 3-pointers and scored a career-high 19 points and the Baxter girls basketball team used a fast start to eliminate BCLUW on Feb. 18.
The Bolts snapped a four-game skid against the Comets and a 16-point advantage after the first quarter held up during a 46-39 road win over BCLUW in Class 1A Region 8 quarterfinal action.
Koehler’s career night helped the Bolts get off to a quick start and they never looked back.
The Comets defeated Baxter twice in conference play, but the Bolts advanced in the postseason despite a tough shooting night from the floor.
Baxter shot only 31.7 percent from the floor but made 8-of-18 from 3-point range and connected on 12-of-23 from the free-throw line.
BCLUW made nine free throws and hit six 3s but shot only 21 percent from the floor.
Koehler added seven rebounds to her career-high 19 points and Kamdyn Krampe chipped in 13 points, eight rebounds, five assists and two steals. Krampe was 6-of-12 from the foul line and Koehler made 6-of-10 from distance.
Emie Tuhn registered five points, four rebounds and two assists, Kaylyn Krampe totaled five points, two rebounds and two steals and Kendall Brummel posted five rebounds, three assists and three steals. Avery Wonders grabbed three boards.
Karlee Koehler
Baxter senior Karlee Koehler scored a career-high 19 points, made a career-most six 3-pointers and grabbed seven rebounds in the Bolts’ regional quarterfinal win over BCLUW on Feb. 18. She averaged 8.0 points per game this winter.
Baxter boys end season after split of SICL opponents
BAXTER — Eli Dee put in 24 points, Perrin Sulzle and Cainan Travis produced double-doubles and the Baxter boys basketball team rallied past Iowa Valley in their Class 1A District 9 quarterfinal matchup on Feb. 17
The fourth-seeded Bolts trailed by six at halftime but dominated the fourth quarter to rally for a 5851 victory.
Baxter led 8-6 after one but was outscored 20-12 in the second. The hosts closed the gap to two after three but won the fourth 24-15.
Sulzle and Travis led the Bolts with a pair of double-doubles. Travis totaled 14 points, 12 rebounds, four assists and two steals, Sulzle finished with 17 points, 11 rebounds and two assists and Dee chipped in 24 points, four rebounds and two assists.
Dee was 8-of-8 from the freethrow line and Baxter finished 14of-19 as a team, while Iowa Valley was only 6-of-12.
Stadan Vansice registered two rebounds and four assists, Maddux Tuhn posted two rebounds and three assists and Colten Damman grabbed two boards.
The Bolts (14-9) shot 36 percent from the floor, made only 2-of-13 from 3-point range and was out-rebounded 38-31 but committed only nine turnovers.
Iowa Valley (12-11) shot 40 percent from the floor and was 5-of17 from the 3 but turned it over 13 times.
Caleb Haack led the Tigers with 24 points, 14 rebounds, four assists and six blocks.
North Mahaska 69, Baxter 56
NEW SHARON — Baxter competed very well against North Mahaska in the first and last quarters on Feb. 20.
It was the middle two periods that doomed the Bolts though and the Warhawks ended their season, 69-56, in the Class 1A District 9 semifinals.
North Mahaska dominated the second quarter in both meetings against Baxter this winter. The Warhawks outscored the Bolts 2616 in the latest meeting and won the period 24-14 earlier this season.
It was a two-point game after one and Baxter outscored its hosts 24-13 in the fourth. North Mahaska (20-3) had a 19-7 advantage in the third though.
Dee led the Bolts with 25 points and three assists. He was 4-of-10 from 3. He ended the season with a school-record 666 points and averaged 29 points per contest.
Travis totaled 13 points and five rebounds and Sulzle contributed 10 points and eight boards, but North Mahaska out-rebounded the Bolts 41-18. The Warhawks had a 15-3 advantage in offensive boards.
Vansice chipped in three points and three rebounds and Dakota Parker put in three points. The Bolts shot 41.5 percent from the floor, made 10-of-28 from 3 and turned the ball over only nine times.
North Mahaska got 25 points, six rebounds and 11 assists from Asher DeBoef and Adrian Smith totaled 17 points and nine rebounds. Jack Kelderman did not score but grabbed 11 rebounds.
The Warhawks shot 44.4 percent from the floor and made 11of-34 from 3.
Jasper County Tribune
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Baxter junior Stadan Vansice registered two rebounds and four assists in the Bolts’ district win over Iowa Valley on Feb. 17 and then posted three points and three rebounds in the team’s season-ending loss to North Mahaska on Feb. 20.
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Baxter senior Cainan Travis totaled 14 points, 12 rebounds, four assists and two steals in the Bolts’ district win over Iowa Valley on Feb. 17.
Jasper County Tribune
BAXTER GIRLS | 8
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Baxter sophomore Kendall Brummel, center, posted five rebounds, three assists and three steals in the Bolts’ regional semifinal win over BCLUW on Feb. 18.
Baxter’s Tuhn named to all-district squad
Baxter senior Emie Tuhn finalized her record-setting prep basketball career recently.
With that, comes postseason honors. And the Bolts sharpshooter
was named to the Iowa Girls Coaches Association Class 1A North Central All-District squad recently. She also was part of the IGCA academic all-state squad.
Tuhn ranks 15th in 1A with an 18 points per game average and cur-
rently leads 1A and ranks fourth in the state with a school-record 84 made 3-pointers. Her school-record 411 total points rank 13th in 1A, too.
Tuhn, who started all 23 games this season for Baxter, averaged five
rebounds, four assists and 3.4 steals per contest. She shot 70 percent from the free-throw line and 36 percent from 3. The Central All-District team is made up of 10 players, including BCLUW’s Grace Farnsworth.
State Wrestling Rewind: Tigerhawks win multiple matches
Baxter Girls
Baxter led 20-4 after one quarter. The Bolts (13-10) were outscored 3526 the rest of the way.
Klayre Gallentine highlighted BCLUW (15-8) with 11 points and seven rebounds, while Grace Farnsworth finished with nine points and 11 boards.
The Comets are 8-3 against Baxter since 2017, and the Bolts won for the first time in the last five meetings.
Gladbrook-Reinbeck 57, Baxter 16
REINBECK — The Bolts couldn’t overcome a poor shooting night, and 1A No. 8 Gladbrook-Reinbeck held Baxter to single digits in all four quarters during a 57-16 loss in the regional semifinals.
Baxter suffered a season-ending loss in part because it shot only 15.4 percent from the floor. The Bolts made only 2-of-21 from 3 and connected on 2-of-12 from the foul line.
Brummel led the Bolts with four points, eight rebounds and two blocks and Kamdyn Krampe totaled six points and three boards.
Tuhn’s final prep game included three points and eight rebounds. She finished her high school career with a school-record 1,290 points.
Tuhn’s school-record 84 made 3-pointers this season currently leads 1A and she made a school-record 259 career treys.
Koehler finished with three points, Kaylyn Krampe had two rebounds and two blocks and Mallory Bottorff grabbed two boards.
Kennedy Brant led Gladbrook-Reinbeck (20-3) with 22 points, 15 rebounds, four assists and five blocks and Brinn Schneider totaled 14 points and nine rebounds.
The Rebels out-rebounded Baxter 52-24 and grabbed 21 offensive rebounds. They were 8-of-9 from the foul line and won the game despite making only 3-of-20 from 3.
Gladbrook-Reinbeck advanced to the regional final where it played 11th-ranked Lynnville-Sully on Feb. 26.
Baxter senior Karlee Koehler,
scored a career-high 19 points and made a career-most six 3-pointers in the Bolts’ regional win over BCLUW on Feb. 18.
Troy Hyde/ Jasper County Tribune
right,
Jasper County Tribune Tuhn
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Colfax-Mingo junior Teagan Dybevik, back, won twice by fall and lost a match in overtime at the state wrestling tournament on Feb. 19 and Feb. 20 inside Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines.
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Colfax-Mingo senior Lily Webster, top, battled her way to a fourth-place finish at
100 pounds during the Class 1A girls state wrestling tournament at Xtream Arena in Coralville earlier this month.
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Colfax-Mingo senior Caden Sykes, top, finished 2-2 in his only state wrestling tournament at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines.
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Colfax-Mingo senior Emma Cook, top, fell behind in four of her six matches at the Class 1A girls state wrestling tournament but still finished third at 235 pounds.
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Colfax-Mingo senior Lily Webster, right, needed only 32 seconds to end her first match at the girls state wrestling tournament at Xtream Arena in Coralville earlier this month.
