JCT-03-14-2024

Sheriff’s office to provide temporary services to Baxter

Small town’s police chief resigned and needs help from county until replacement is found

By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune

Following the resignation of Baxter Police Chief Bill Daggett this past February, the Jasper County Board of Supervisors authorized the sheriff’s office to provide temporary law enforcement services until the small town’s mayor and city council can determine a more permanent solution going forward.

Lt. Brad Shutts of the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office told the board of supervisors that the department has offered this type of service to Baxter in the past.

“The City of Baxter, with the loss of their police chief and the resignation last month, approached the sheriff’s office about some contract law enforcement like we’ve done in years past,” he said. “Back in 2017 we did something for them to get by until they can make a decision for what they want to do as a community.”

According to the agreement, the sheriff’s office will respond to and handle emergency and non-emergency calls for service, investigate traffic complaints and accidents, investigate crimes, enforce traffic violations and conduct routine and

special patrols as requested by the mayor or the city council.

The contract expires June 30 and does not automatically renew.

Newton News previously reported that three city employees in Baxter submitted resignations in a two-week period. In addition to the police chief, those who resigned include city clerk Katie Wilson and EMS director Randi Gliem. The newspaper learned utility clerk Erin Suttek resigned recently, too.

supervisors he was very thankful to the county for providing law enforcement services to his city.

“Our chief of police resigned and is going to be the chief of police in Mitchellville, so we decided instead of rushing into it we’re going to get a consultant in and take our time trying to find a good fit for the City of Baxter,” Bishop said. “So we appreciate the sheriff’s office for stepping up to help us through that transfer.”

Baxter announces new

superintendent

Chris Petersen selected to lead the district in 2024-25

Baxter Community School District has found its next superintendent.

Chris Petersen was announced as the next leader of the district starting July 1.

“I am honored and excited to be hired as the next superintendent at Baxter Community School District,” Petersen said. “I look forward to meeting everyone in the coming months and officially starting my role on July 1.” Petersen will take over for departing superintendent Mickolyn Clapper who has served since 2018. Petersen started his career as a 7th-12th grade social studies teacher, a role he was in for 11 years. He went on to serve as the principal, transportation director, facilities director, curriculum director and special education director in the Arcadia, Westside

By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune Petersen

and Vail school district, ArWe-Va. He has also coached a variety of sports including football, basketball, track and field, softball and baseball along with serving as an athletics director.

“I am an educator who strongly believes in the importance of building strong relationships, creating a positive culture for students and staff and collaborative decision making,” Petersen said. His current role has him working with school districts on facilities projects.

“I am extremely grateful for all of my educational experiences that have led me to the opportunity to help guide the Baxter Community School District,” Petersen said. “I am a strong advocate for rural public schools and am truly excited to be your next superintendent and continue to improve upon the great things Baxter is already doing.”

ELECTION 2024

Brad Magg to run for Iowa House District 38

Owner of Goldie’s, Colfax city council member says Iowa is ‘far better’ than what lawmakers are turning it into

By Christopher Braunschweig

Iowa House Reps. Kniff McCulla and Dunwell submit re-election papers

Republicans want to continue their work for Districts 37 and 38

Brad Magg, a city council member in Colfax and the owner of Goldie’s Ice Cream Shoppe in Prairie City and a number of concession stands at the Iowa State Fair, is running for the Iowa House District 38 seat currently held by Republican Jon Dunwell. Magg told Newton News he will be running as a Democrat.

In addition to owning Goldie’s, which won best tenderloin by the Iowa Pork Producers Association in 2009, Magg is the founder of Magg Family Catering and co-owner of Spring City Pharmacy. He also helps manage The Bacon Box, The Snack Box and G-Pop’s Candy Box concession stands at the State Fair.

As a lifelong Jasper County resident, Magg said that while his classmates in Colfax were eager to leave their hometown he saw the potential of his community and planted his roots, but not without trying to convince them to stay. Although they didn’t listen back then, he said many have reached out the past few years.

“They want to move back to town,” Magg said. “I’m happy we’ve got our community to that point and help build

it back up, but sadly now a lot of my friends are wanting to leave the state because they don’t think they’re welcome here or it doesn’t align with the way they want to raise their family.”

Magg still believes in Iowa’s potential and that the state and Jasper County are “far better” than what lawmakers are trying to turn it into. Which is why Magg feels inspired to run for House District 38, which covers nearly all of Jasper County apart from Monroe and Prairie City.

Magg told Newton News in a phone interview March 7 that lawmakers elected to the statehouse need to focus on Iowa issues and the issues that affect the state’s individual communities.

Although Magg said he has had a decent rapport with Dunwell, he also expressed frustration over the lawmaker’s decision making.

“What Mr. Dunwell is doing doesn’t quite represent the values that I think the constituents in the district have,” Magg said. “…I’ve had some great conversations with him over issues these past few years and it’s just become pretty apparent it falls on deaf ears.”

Specifically, Magg said he shared with Dunwell his concerns over last year’s property tax reform law. The law, which Magg said is touted as a tax cut, restricted how cities, school districts and counties were able to tax their citizens. Many local city leaders have voiced their opposition to the law since

important issues to move our state forward and I look forward to the opportunity to ask the voters for another term.”

Both of the Republican lawmakers representing Jasper County in the Iowa House — Rep. Jon Dunwell of District 38 and Barb Kniff McCulla of District 37 — announced in press releases this past week that they have filed for re-election. Dunwell was first elected in 2021; Kniff McCulla joined the House in 2022.

After winning a special election in 2021 to fill the seat of Rep. Wes Breckenridge, who resigned a year before his term ended, Dunwell reclaimed his spot in the statehouse in 2022. Prior to his work in the statehouse, Dunwell served as vice president of two financial services companies.

In a March 8 press release, Dunwell said it has been a great honor to represent his constituents in Iowa House District 38, which covers most of the northern half of Jasper County, including Newton, Baxter, Colfax, Lynnville, Mingo and Sully. Dunwell is also assistant majority leader of the Iowa House.

“Since I was first elected I have strived to be a representative that listens to the people of my district and acts as their voice in the statehouse,” Dunwell said. “I have had the honor of working on many

Dunwell is also a licensed and ordained pastor with the Christian & Missionary Alliance, a certified speaker, trainer and coach. In the statehouse, Dunwell serves on the Local Government, State Government, Transportation, Judiciary, Environmental Protection and International Relations committees.

Currently, Dunwell lives in Newton with his wife Christie; they have two sons, Addison and Bryce.

Speaker of the Iowa House Pat Grassley said he appreciates Dunwell’s hard work to represent his district well. No one works harder, he said.

“He is known for being extremely engaged with his community members, always seeking feedback from his constituents and always voting how he believes is best for his district,” Grassley said. “I look forward to continuing to work with him in the Iowa House.”

In a March 7 press release, Kniff McCulla also said it has been an honor

Baxter Mayor Doug Bishop told

Christopher Braunschweig/Jasper County Tribune

Representatives from all local law enforcement agencies participate in the Jasper County Law Enforcement Memorial in 2023. The board of supervisors approved the sheriff’s office to provide temporary law enforcement for the City of Baxter.

Jasper County Tribune

By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune

Dunwell

Kniff McCulla

Magg

Area Record/Tax & Money

Green beer and driving don’t mix

The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) is partnering with law enforcement across Iowa March 13-21 to remind drivers: Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.

St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the United States extend as far back as the American colonial period. Today, it’s one of our nation’s most popular holidays, celebrated with festivals, parades, and parties. These celebrations frequently feature themed cocktails and green pints, and the amount of alcohol consumed is higher than average. People are more likely to make poor decisions as a result, including driving while intoxicated.

Because St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Sunday, we anticipate alcohol consumption will increase throughout the weekend. We ask everyone to celebrate responsibly. Last

March, there were 26 traffic fatalities on Iowa roads. Almost 40 percent of those occurred the week of St. Patrick’s Day (March 11-19, 2023).

GTSB also reminds drivers to watch for pedestrians. An increase in alcohol consumption and pedestrian traffic can be a dangerous combination. If you’re on foot, cross streets in well-lit areas and use the crosswalks.

“Don’t turn a day of fun into a tragic and dev-

astating time by driving while intoxicated. It’s vital people plan ahead,“ GTSB Bureau Chief Brett Tjepkes said. “If you wait until you’ve been drinking to make a smart decision, you might not. Designate a sober driver, call a taxi, or use a rideshare service.

Our law enforcement partners will be looking for impaired drivers.”

If you find yourself drunk and stranded with your vehicle, give the keys to a sober driver who can

safely drive you home. Remind your friends to never get in the vehicle with a drunk driver. If you have a friend who is about to drive drunk, take away their keys and help them get home safely.

The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau works with city, county, state, and local organizations to develop and implement strategies to reduce deaths and injuries on Iowa’s roadways using federally funded grants.

GriefShare at FRC in Prairie City

13-week programs begins March 20

First Reformed Church in Prairie City will begin a new session of GriefShare from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 20.

If you have experienced the death of a loved one and are looking for support, healing and hope, you are welcome to attend.

The 13-week program consists of discussion; informative videos presented by Christian counselors, authors, pastors and others who share their stories and found hope through faith. In addition, each participant will receive a workbook containing five daily exercises each week as well as other resources.

There is a $15 registration fee (scholarships available). Whether your grief journey has just begun or you’ve been walking this path for a long time, GriefShare can help,

For more information or to register, contact Mary Lemmertat 515-205-0835 or at hope2you@aol. com. Begin your journey from Mourning to Joy with GriefShare.

5 counties receive the master gardener Search for Excellence Award

Five county programs with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Master Gardener program have been awarded the Search for Excellence Award for their commitment to gardening education in local communities.

The counties have won in the following categories: Jasper County, Demonstration Garden; Linn County, Workshop/Presentation; Scott County, Youth/School Garden; Story County, Innovative Project; Warren County, Community Service Project.

The Search for Excellence Award recognizes Master Gardeners who demonstrate outstanding contributions to their communities, providing significant learning and impact in the local area. All applications must show that significant learning took place, with the focus on educating the general public. Jasper County – 36 Master Gardeners and six community volunteers worked on the Inspiration Donation Garden to combat food insecurity in Jasper County. The Jasper County Master Gardeners working on the Inspiration Donation Garden.garden produced 1,946 pounds of produce in 2023 that was donated to food pantries serving the local community. Master Gardeners also provided educational programming at the Salvation Army in Newton, where participants were provided with “Garden-to-Go” kits to grow produce at home. Utilizing vertical gardening practices, Master Gardeners have created an innovative garden de -

Hiring a tax accountant

Working with a CPA will give

It’s easy to become rattled when faced with the Internal Revenue Service’s reams of compliance requirements and specifications. Even the most seasoned taxpayer may have a year when income, deductions and credits become too complicated to deal with alone. That’s when it’s time to call a certified public accountant.

DEFINING ‘CPA’

Finding a trustworthy CPA starts with understanding what they do. Certified public accountants must undergo rigorous multi-course training to ensure they grasp the complexity of our ever-changing tax code and how it all impacts your return. The CPA exam is actually four individual tests over an 18-month timeframe, covering topics like auditing, regulations, business concepts, reporting and more. These accountants typically must then work under the direct supervision of another CPA for roughly one year before being certified. There are also ongoing professional development requirements to make sure they remain up-to-date on the latest IRS updates.

WHY THEY’RE NEEDED

For some people, an EZ form is all that’s needed. In that case, you probably don’t need a CPA. But tax preparation can be a lot more complex for business owners, freelancers, second homeowners and others.

Freelancers may end up with a lengthy client list sending 1099 forms, while business owners try to sort out complex federal requirements. Second homeowners might be subject to taxation in another state. Those are just a few of the complicated tax situations that are more easily addressed by certified public accountants.

MAKING A GOOD HIRE

Some accountants only focus on business clients,

while others handle individuals or both. Ask about their specialization. You can also verify their Preparer Tax Identification Number online. Make sure your prospective CPA hire offers e-filing services and consider their fees. Remember that cheaper doesn’t always mean better. Ask friends and family members for personal recommendations among local CPAs, read online reviews and

then meet with more than one candidate to see which best fits your individual needs. Check classified advertising and business publications, since they’ll likely have advertisements for local CPAs — especially during the busy tax season. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants also offers a “Find a CPA” web tool that’s both easy to use and comprehensive.

- Greenshoot Media

sign that has been studied and duplicated by other county Master Gardener groups to increase production capacity without increasing the overall footprint of the garden. This project has

leveraged support from Des Moines Area Community College Newton, Des Moines Area Community College Food Pantry, Salvation Army of Newton and community member Tim Onnen.

Submitted Photo Jasper County Master Gardeners working on the Inspiration Donation Garden project prepare to distribute “Garden-to-Go” kits to food pantry clientele as part of the educational component of their service project.

Van Zee Team receives top real estate award

Farmers National Company, the nation’s leading farm and ranch management and brokerage company, announced the Van Zee Team was recently presented with the Farmers National Company President’s Circle Award for their outstanding efforts in real estate sales.

John and Eric Van Zee, real estate sales agents with Farmers National Company, received the company’s top award for real estate sales in 2023. John began working with Farmers National Company in 2000, and Eric began working with Farmers National Company in 2019.

John can be contacted at 641-521-0151 or by email at JVanZee@FarmersNational.com. Eric can be contacted at 515-9712633 or by email at EVanZee@FarmersNational.com.

Securing STOP THE BLEED educational license

The Department of Defense’s STOP THE BLEED (STB) Program aims to empower the public to effectively address traumatic injuries involving severe bleeding until first responders arrive. The Jasper County Emergency Management Agency has been granted a STOP THE BLEED educational license.

It’s estimated that more than 30,000 lives could be saved annually with widespread access to this essential STOP THE BLEED training. Organizations licensed to deliver DoD-approved STOP

work.”

Magg

Continuedfrompage1

Eric Van Zee it passed.

Re-election

Continuedfrompage1

serving her constituents. Iowa House District 37 covers portions of Jasper, Mahaska and Marion Counties. Kniff McCulla is seeking her second term in office after winning her first election two years ago and ousting incumbent Jon Thorup in the primary.

“I am honored to serve as representative for House District 37,” Kniff McCulla said. “Since I was first elected, we have progressed on key issues that I am passionate about: issues such as protecting life, defending freedoms, and working to improve our small business climate in Iowa.”

Kniff McCulla is the owner of KLK Construction, which celebrates 45 years of business this week. She has served on numerous community boards and recently held the position of Commissioner of the Iowa Telecommunications and Technology Commission.

In the statehouse, Kniff McCulla is the vicechair of the Ways and Means Committee and also is a member of the Commerce, Economy Growth and Technology, Health and Human Services and Labor and Workforce committees.

“It increased costs for the city, the school, the county by thousands and thousands of dollars in order to do the same thing in a more complicated manner,” Magg said. “People still don’t fully understand or can get an explanation from the state on how this is supposed to be done.”

In the end, Magg argued the law will actually cost residents more as a result. Lawmakers were so excited to call it a tax cut, but in actuality they just made it worse, he claimed.

As a city council member for 14 years, Magg said he is a big believer in local control and has never lobbied to raise taxes when budgeting.

“So the thought that the state has to come in and tell us we have to tax less without giving any support or guidance on how to do that just doesn’t make any sense and it only made the situation worse,” Magg said. “He (Dunwell) clearly doesn’t understand how some of the tax structures

THE BLEED courses play a pivotal role in the program’s success.

The Stop the Bleed Coalition is dedicated to supporting the STOP THE BLEED campaign by facilitating collaboration and cooperation among the numerous individuals and organizations committed to training and equipping the nation to mitigate the loss of life due to traumatic bleeding.

Licensed by the U.S. Department of Defense, the Coalition provides various DoD-approved services and products to the burgeoning STOP THE BLEED com-

Magg also has concerns about the status of the public education system in Iowa. It is disheartening, he said, to see extremely talented teachers, who truly care about their students, leaving the profession. Meanwhile, he said, the state is focusing its efforts on book bans.

“I don’t know the last time I saw a child actually reading a paper book,” he said. “If we’re worried about students getting their minds corrupted we should probably take the phones out of their pockets and focus on that. The amount of time, energy and money spent on this issue isn’t going to make a positive difference.”

Magg said there is no reason lawmakers cannot work together to focus on the common good rather than pushing personal agendas “for friends in high places.” Another issue that is important to Magg is healthcare. When he looks around the county, he is distressed to see a lack of doctor’s offices in smaller towns. Newton is the only community unaffected, but Magg finds it absurd

munity and the public. STOP THE BLEED stands as a vital public health initiative garnering support from both public and private sector entities and individuals dedicated to preserving lives. Jasper County Emergency Management Agency now stands among the ever-growing public-private partnerships driving the campaign forward.

Any business or organization is encouraged to reach out if they want to learn this life-saving skill. Email em@jasperema-hls.org or call 641-792-7555.

the other incorporated territories in House District 38 do not have their own. It is partly why he was so passionate about saving the pharmacy in Colfax and maintaining Spring City Pharmacy’s presence in the community. He believed if the pharmacy was lost it would likely not return. Magg said the health care system is not only broken it is a “dumpster fire next to a propane tank.”

Magg said 40 percent of independent pharmacies in Iowa are expected to close this year. While getting prescriptions through the mail can be beneficial, he argued that when people need an antibiotic they do not or should not have to wait two days for it to be delivered.

“Keep in mind that Sudafed products like Mucinex D cannot be sold without a pharmacist there to sell it to you,” he said. “So when you want high-powered allergy or sinus medication, you won’t be able to buy it anymore. The Walgreens and those kinds of pharmacies are also closing faster than independents.”

lawmakers who may be considering some type of bipartisan legislation to help. Magg said he spoke with about 12 different Republican lawmakers a few weeks ago at the statehouse.

“I spoke with Mr. Dunwell a fair amount, and he has been the least excited and least compassionate about the struggles facing Iowa and rural Iowa in general,” he said. “This isn’t good. People won’t be able to live here anymore without basic medical care.”

Which is only fueling Magg’s decision to run for office.

“I’m sick of the partisanship and the games that are being played wasting valuable resources that are doing nobody any good,” he said.

Alex Cleverley, chair of the Jasper County Democratic Party, said in a statement to Newton News that Magg would be a wonderful leader for House District 38, and she is excited to see a young public servant step up to the plate and give county voters a voice in the legislature.

Try out the New

Coupled with drastic cuts to local governments and a “complete lack of support” for public schools, Magg questioned if there will be anything left for rural Iowans.

“Every town is just going to have a Dollar General and maybe a post office if they’re lucky,” he said.

“Brad is a natural leader who wears many hats. He brings a great deal to the table, which I think voters can get behind and support,” she said. “Our current representative seems to be a little tone deaf when it comes to constituents’ needs here in Jasper County. It’s disappointing leadership.”

Magg has been passionate about restoring pharmacies, and he has shared his thoughts with

To Magg, Jasper County is great and has always been great.

“But I think we’re very close to losing that status,” he said. “…If no one pays attention or actually tries to fix the problems we’re dealing with, let alone trying to plan to be prepared for the future, then we’re not going to be great and it’s not going to be a great place to move to or raise your family or retire.”

John Van Zee

Maple Hill is famous

Maple Hill, the home I grew up in, is featured in the I-80 Rest Area in Jasper County, Iowa! I couldn’t believe it. I stopped at the rest area before I reached Newton. I was going to see my friend Phil. We grew up together, played football, baled hay, and both of us, at one time or another, lived at Maple Hill—me until I graduated from High School, Phil, later in life when he was in med school. Maple Hill was owned by his grandfather, Ulrie. It was so named because it was a large, 13-room, two-and-a-half story farm house, with double decker porches, sitting at the top of a hill that was covered with maple trees, just west of Monroe. Some of my fondest childhood memories take place at Maple Hill, and here I was looking at a picture of it on the walls of the Jasper County, I-80, Rest Area. Phil and I stacked hay in that

barn. Iowa is well known for its Interstate Rest Areas, and each of them has its own theme. On I-380, between Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, there is the rest area featuring Iowa’s famous artist, Grant Wood. In Western Iowa, where there are a lot of wind turbines, there is the Wind Turbine Rest Area. Near Des Moines there is the rest area with the soil-erosion theme. Etc. If you’re a tourist passing through, Iowa intends to not only provide you with rest and relief, but education as well.

To have Maple Hill featured as the theme for a rest area in the county of its origin, well, I’m flabbergasted. I knew Maple Hill was sorta well known, but not that well known. A lot of people have called Maple Hill their home. In fact, one of the later owners of Maple Hill claimed it was haunted. The house

Week Nine: Education and social media

On Thursday, the Iowa House voted to raise starting teacher’s salaries to $47,500 for the 2024-25 school year and to $50,000 for the 2025-26 school year. $47,500 would make Iowa’s starting teacher pay 12th in the nation and $50,000 would make Iowa fifth. With Iowa having the fifth lowest cost of living among the 50 states and the District of Columbia, Iowa’s starting teachers would have more purchasing power than almost any other state.

The House also voted to increase the minimum wage for education support staff, often referred to as “para-educators,” to $15 per hour. The legislation provides $14 million to cover the additional cost. To address School Districts’ concern about the impact of the new starting salaries upon existing salary schedules, the House voted to allocate an additional $22 million in Teacher Supplemental Support. Furthermore, the House voted to raise the Governor’s proposed State Supplemental Aid from 2.5 percent to 3 percent, giving schools more flexibility in dealing with their salary needs. These additional allocations are recurring.

All-in-all, the Iowa House has voted to provide more than 4.5 percent additional funding for Iowa’s public schools. I am so thankful to the Governor for starting this conversation. I’m hoping the Senate will keep it going.

In a bipartisan manner, the House also passed a bill to help parents and kids navigate the ever-changing world of social media. As social media has become more popular, we’ve seen the mental health of children decline. It negatively impacts our kids’ self-esteem, resulting in cyberbullying, and exposing our kids to inappropriate content. It’s tough for parents to keep up with all the new trending social media apps.

HF 2255 requires social media apps to get parental permission before anyone under the age of 18 can create an account on their platform. Under this bill, it would be against the law for social media companies to gather data on kids without permission from parents. Ultimately, this bill puts parents back in the driver’s seat when it comes to their kids’ data and the impact social media can have on their mental health.

Let’s keep the conversation going!

YOUR VIEW

Just tell me why

Millions of American don’t seem to care that Donald Trump was convicted of sexual assault or that he is a liar, a bully, dishonest in his business dealings, that he encouraged his followers to storm the United Stataes Capitol to try and stop Congress from certifying election results — injuring hundreds of police officers, watching this for three hours, making no attempt to stop their assault — a dereliction of duty.

SHARE YOUR VIEW

Millions of Americans don’t seem to care that Donals Trump referred to those buried in a U.S. military cemetery as losers. It seems that regardless of what Donals Trump says or does, millions will still be Trumpers. It seems very possible that if givens a choice, millions of Americans would choose Donald Trump over democracy. Why? Bob Halferty Newton

was even featured one Halloween Night on national television because of its reputation for being haunted. Did Phil or I realize it was haunted when we lived there? Nope. So I met up with Phil and we lunched. It was our intention to drive around and look at the farms where we grew up and reminisce about old times. We would drive by the farm where he grew up, and we would attempt to find Maple Hill. About 10 years ago Maple Hill was moved to a new location. (CNN covered the move. Would the ghosts go with it?) It was the owner’s intention to restore Maple Hill to its original stately, pre-Civil War, Southern Mansion-style elegance. However, the owner ran out of money, we heard, and the restoration was never completed. In fact, the house had been vandalized, the copper stripped from it, and was in rather bad condition. I wasn’t even sure if I could find Maple Hill. I had a rough idea of where it was, having seen where it was moved 10 years ago, but my memory was sketchy. So we drove around on back country roads west of

Monroe, and talked about old times. Here was our drinking spot. Here was a favorite parking place. Here’s where I wrecked Dad’s truck.

I took a chance with a gravel road where I thought Maple Hill might be. We drove and drove, up hill, down hill, around a bend. No Maple Hill. It’s big enough we should be able to see it if we were close. Nothing. All of a sudden, there it was! Maple Hill still stands, stately, and looking worse for wear, but she is there, waiting for some much needed TLC. Any house that is featured in an Iowa Interstate Rest Area needs to be looked after and cared for. The home where I grew up is memorialized for posterity. I’m shocked, pleased and humbled.

Gazing at Maple Hill again, Phil and I took a step back. We didn’t wish to change anything, but to feel some of the old feelings twice. Maple Hill, you were good to us. Now you belong to everyone.

Contact Curt Swarm at curtswarm@yahoo.com

Lowering costs & raising wages

By Iowa House Democratic Leader Jennifer Konfrst

It was the busiest week of the legislative session so far. The House sent over scores of bills to the Iowa Senate but it’s unclear how many of those will move ahead given the inter-party battle between the Governor and GOP legislative leaders.

House Democrats kicked off the week introducing some new ideas and bills in our People Over Politics agenda. The goal is to get the session re-focused on improving the lives of Iowans instead of just playing politics.

It’s no secret Iowans are frustrated with politics these days and just want to see elected officials get something done instead of stoking the flames of partisanship. While the root cause of their frustration is often hard to pinpoint, the most common theme I hear is folks just can’t seem to get ahead. So many Iowans are struggling to make ends meet and their paychecks simply aren’t keeping up with the rising costs of healthcare, food, child care, and utility bills.

At the same time, people are watching those at the top - the wealthy and corporations - rolling in billions of profits. There are now 756 billionaires in America who just keep getting richer. In 1989, the CEO-to-worker pay ratio was 59-1 and today it is 399-1. Corporate profits are at record highs as they continue to increase prices on real

Brandon Talsma, chair

4309 W Fourth St. S. Newton, IA 50208

641-526-3142

btalsma@co.jasper.ia.us

people while the CEOs and shareholders pocket the extra cash. It’s no wonder Iowans are frustrated and feel like the system is just rigged against them.

It won’t happen overnight, but we’ve got to start bringing some balance back to people and hold corporations accountable. Here are five simple ideas the Iowa Legislature can do right away to help Iowans pay their bills and provide some economic stability for people.

First, let’s give Iowans some more say in the workplace. Everyone deserves fair wages, respect and safety on the job. Instead of politicians trying to strip away the rights of workers (it’s happening in Iowa again this year as well), it’s time to protect collective bargaining in Iowa’s Constitution to guarantee workers have a say in the workplace. It’s just a matter of fairness.

Second, Iowans should all have the tools they need to start planning for a secure retirement when they enter the workforce. It’s a critical piece to ensure they stay and work in Iowa and invest those dollars back in our communities after retirement. The new bill we offered this week requires employers that do not offer a retirement plan to automatically enroll all employees in a retirement account in the Iowa Retirement Savings Plan Trust. It’s a simple idea that sets more people up for long-term financial security.

Some other ideas we introduced earlier this session that would im-

mediately ease the strain on the pocketbook of Iowans, includes raising the minimum wage, expanding Iowa’s sales tax-free holiday to two weeks, and making childcare more affordable for Iowa families. Instead of working together on any of these bills that would actually make a difference, GOP leaders in the House had other plans - more politics.

In an attempt to appease the Governor, leaders pushed through a bill to gut AEAs and reduce special education and mental health services for kids. On the heels of the Perry school shooting just a few months ago, they passed a bill to arm teachers. Instead of making Iowa a welcoming place for all, they approved a bill that weaponizes religious beliefs to permit discrimination. They even let an out-of-state special interest group dictate what should be taught in our social studies classrooms, instead of trusting Iowa teachers.

They’ve just gone too far. I won’t lie, it was a tough week at the State Capitol for so many Iowans, including me. I’m just as frustrated with all the politics as Iowans are.

But the way out of this mess has never been more clear: put people over politics.

State Representative Jennifer Konfrst of Windsor Heights serves the32ndDistrictintheIowaHouse and is the Iowa House Democratic Leader

How to contact your elected officials Jasper County Supervisors

Doug Cupples, vice chair 1205 S. 20th Ave. W. Newton, IA 50208

641-521-8725

dcupples@co.jasper.ia.us

Denny Stevenson 110 Railroad Street Kellogg, IA 50135

641-521-8553

dstevenson@co.jasper.ia.us

History protects heritage: Join the efforts to restore Battleship IOWA

Battleship USS IOWA, the first ship in the largest, fastest class of battleships ever produced by the United States, is on display at the Pacific Battleship Center, which is ranked in the top five museums of Southern California. Iowans can take the lead in restoring this beauty of heritage for future generations. Named after the Midwest state in the heart of the nation, USS IOWA was launched in 1943, during the sorrow and devastation of World War II. The Department of War contributed to the

advancement of Naval forces by launching a total of four Iowa Class battleships. These ships were built to be magnificent, colossal, and to defend the freedom framed in our Constitution. USS IOWA was in commission during three eras between 1942 and 1990: WWII, the Korean War, and the Cold War. She earned the nickname “The Battleship of Presidents,” having hosted presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt, Ronald Reagan, and George H.W. Bush. One of the proudest claims in her impressive

history is having been the site of the initial planning for the June 6, 1944, “D-Day”, invasion of Normandy. Permanently decommissioned in 1990, Battleship USS IOWA has been docked in Los Angeles and open to the public since 2012. Currently, she is in need of deck repair due to deterioration. Iowans can spearhead the charge nationwide so that pumps don’t have to run and visitors can have a safer experience to explore all levels of the storied ship.

President Ronald Rea-

gan said while aboard the USS IOWA, “These vessels embody our conception of liberty itself: to have before one no impediments, only open spaces; to chart one’s own course and take the adventure of life as it comes; to be free as the wind — as free as the tall ships themselves.”

To become involved in this restoration, visit Iowans for Battleship IOWA and to make a contribution to the project, contact Kyle Aube, director of development of the Battleship IOWA Museum at 877-4469261.

ACU announces 2024 scholarship contest, applications

due March 22

Community Calendar

Send items to news@jaspercountytribune.com

THURSDAY

• Baxter Garden Club meets at 7 p.m. the second Thursday of month, March to December, at the Baxter Community Building

SATURDAY

• Mulligan Stew Supper from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at the Catholic Church in Colfax. The menu includes stew, Irish soda bread, salad, dessert and drink. Free will offering.

MONDAY

• Colfax Historical Society meets at 7 p.m. the third Monday of the month at the museum

Free bison story time Friday

Join Denise Bean, youth services librarian for the Iowa Blind & Print Disabled File Photo

Enjoy an educational story time presented by Denise Bean, youth services librarian for the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, March 15 at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center.

To apply, candidates must submit a business-style resume not to exceed two pages in length and answer the following essay question in 500 words or less:

HOWARD ST. CHRISTIAN CHURCH

(Disciples of Christ)

Pastor Tom Burns Howard & Locust St., Colfax Office - 674-3746 Church Cell - 971-0569

SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Adult & Wired Word Adult Sunday school classes; 10 a.m. Fellowship Time;10:30 a.m. Worship, in person or online via YouTube

MONDAY - Tom’s day off

TUESDAY - 9:30 a.m. Coffee Time/Fellowship; 2 p.m. Easy Yoga

WEDNESDAY - 3:30 p.m. After school elementary youth; 6:10 ChiRho and CYF youth supper/ youth group

THIRD SUNDAY of month

- Marathon Sunday includes elders, board, potluck and food pantry

FIRST MONDAY of monthWIC appointments

IRA UNITED CHURCH

Rev. Michael Omundson

The church schedule is brought to you by Advantage Credit Union will be awarding three scholarships for the 2024-25 school year. One $2,000, one $1,000, and one $750 scholarship will be awarded. Applicants must be a graduating high school senior entering a two-year, four-year, or technical school in the 2024-25 school year. Applicants must also be a member in good standing of Advantage Credit Union for at least six months prior to application deadline.

As cooperative community organizations, one of the principles at the heart of the credit union movement is concern for community. What does community mean to you? How have you served your community, and how do you see your credit union working in your community?

Consider sharing personal examples and experiences. Submissions are due Friday, March 22. Submissions will be accepted in-person at Advantage Credit Union or via mail if postmarked by March 22. Mailed submissions should be sent to: ACU Scholarship Contest, 121 W. Third St. N., Newton, IA 50208.

Advantage Credit Union membership is open to everyone who lives or works in Jasper County or 18 counties in Central Iowa. For additional info, call Advantage Credit Union at 641792-5660 or email info@acuiowa.org.

Church Schedules

SUNDAY - 9:30 a.m. Church service; 10:15 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 17 - 9 a.m. Fellowship; 9:15 a.m. Bible Education Classes; 10:25 a.m. Message by Pastor Cody Dye

TUESDAY, March 19 - 3 p.m. Women’s Prayer and coffee

WEDNESDAY, March 20 - 9

a.m. Busy Bee Quilters and Fresh Encounter Prayer; 5:45 p.m. AWANA Family Meal; 6:25

Coburn FUNERAL HOMES

Colfax-Prairie City-Monroe 515-674-3155

www.coburnfuneralhomes.com

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. Sunday School; Family Worship

HOPE ASSEMBLY OF GOD

126 E. Howard

Rev. Paul Avery, pastor Church: 674-3700

SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday school; 10 a.m. Worship; 6 p.m. Evening services

WEDNESDAY - 6 p.m. Bible study

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION

CATHOLIC CHURCH

302 E. Howard St., Colfax Fr. Ron Hodges

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 ser-

Enjoy learning about bison through this free educational story time presented by Denise Bean, youth services librarian for the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, March 15 at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center.

All ages are welcome to participate in this program. All attendees will create hands-on crafts and participate in engaging activities, including working with

vice (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

SUNDAY - 9:15 a.m. Sunday School; 10 a.m. Worship; 6 p.m. Awanas 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

BAXTER

CONGREGATIONAL

CHURCH 218 S. Main, Baxter

tactile coloring pages. Attendees will learn about bison, their habitat, while enjoying the smells of the prairie. Contact madison_ zink@fws.gov or call 515-994-3400 to register and to get additional information. For information visit https://www.fws.gov/ refuge/neal-smith or Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/NealSmithNWR. Specific questions can be directed to Nancy Corona at nancy_corona@fws.gov or 515-994-3400.

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

Submitted Photo

USS IOWA was launched in 1943, during the sorrow and devastation of World War II.

Three Tigerhawks earn all-SICL boys basketball honors

The Lynnville-Sully boys’ basketball team claimed its 15 conference wins by an average of 28 points this season.

Colfax-Mingo registered four more conference victories than the previous season.

For their efforts, five Hawks landed on the all-conference team and a trio of Tigerhawks were recognized.

For Colfax-Mingo, senior Cael Bracewell and junior Harrison Rhone earned honorable mention recognition.

Senior Joe Earles claimed a Golden Award, too, which goes to players who would have been all-conference had it not been for an injury.

All-conference honors are based on statistics inside con-

ference play only.

Rhone started all 16 conference games for Colfax-Mingo. He ranked tied for ninth in the league in scoring at 14.4 points per game and his 2.6 steals per contest ranked tied for fifth.

Rhone also averaged 5.0 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game while shooting 68.4 percent from the foul line. He ranked tied for sixth with 34 made 3s

and ranked 10th in the conference with 26 made free throws.

Bracewell started all 13 conference games he played in. He averaged 8.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2.1 steals per game for the Tigerhawks.

Bracewell also ranked fifth in the conference in free-throw percentage at 76.1 and his 35 made free throws tied for sixth.

Earles played in seven of the 16 conference games after returning from an injury he suffered during the fall season. He averaged 8.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 1.0

blocks per game.

Dyke, sr., Lynnville-Sully; Mitchell Miller, sr., Lynnville-Sully; *Sawyer Stout, sr., Keota; *Asher DeBoef, jr., North Mahaska; *Brady Boulton, so., Montezuma; *Caleb Haack,

OPPORTUNITY

Van Maanen Electric is looking for individuals with a strong work ethic to join our warehouse team. Our Warehouse Associates pull parts for orders, assist with shipping and receiving materials/equipment.

Please go to www.vanmaanenelectricinc.com for position details and application or call 641-791-9473. Send Resume, application and references to jtravis@vanmaanenelectric.com Applications will be accepted through 03/31/2024

Jasper County Tribune

5.

requires that the approved contractors compile a listing of applicants, township section, road name and length of suppressant to be applied and submit this information to the Jasper County Highway Department two weeks prior to anticipated start date

6. All charges for dust control services will be processed by the approved contractor Jasper County will not process applications or accept payment for dust control services

7. No complaints regarding dust control or the dust control company will be taken by Jasper County; all complaints should be directed to the dust control company.

8. Jasper County does not require a permit fee but does require a preparation and administration fee in the amount of 16.7¢ per linear foot of applied product. This fee is collected by the approved contractor and forwarded to Jasper County.

9. Any discrepancy in length of application is between the contractor and the applicant.

10. Sign up deadlines will be set annually by the Jasp er County Highway Department Late applications will not be accepted.

11. All applicants are obligated to mark the limits of their own dust control area and maintain those markings for the duration of the dust control season

12. Applicants are obligated to fill depressions in the treated area and maintain a smooth driving surface.

13. Jasper County reserves the right to blade through any area that is no longer marked or that has become rough or potholed in order to maintain the integrity of the road surface.

14. Jasper County is not obligated to provide reapplication or any compensation for dust control areas that are scarified or bladed.

15. Jasper County reserves the right to blade through any dust control area prior to seco nd treatment

16. Jasper County will begin preparing all dust control areas for winter on or after October 1 of the current dust control year This preparation may include scarifying, blading, placement of additional rock and shaping March 14

Prairie Ag Supply, Prairie City, IA, is actively hiring a full-time person to perform all areas of accounting and office management.

Position Summary:

• Process accounts payable, accounts receivable, invoicing and deposits.

• Prepare and process bi-weekly payroll, quarterly and yearend payroll-related tax filings.

• Reconcile accounts for monthly statements.

of

and procedures in a small office environment. • Payroll knowledge and proficiency in MS Office (Word and Excel). • Strong communication and customer service skills.