Jasper County has been added to president’s disaster declaration
EMA had been requesting additional assistance since the May floods and storms
ment to Newton News.
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Jasper County has now been added to the president’s major disaster declaration following the severe flooding and wind storms that occurred one month ago. The decision comes after emergency management officials met with state leaders and even U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley to convince the feds for help.
“Advocating for Iowans’ needs at the federal level is my core responsibility as an elected representative,” Grassley said in a state-
“Local residents and emergency responders have communicated with my staff and spoken with me directly about the urgent need for federal assistance following May’s severe storms. I was glad to support Jasper County’s addi-
tion to the Major Disaster Declaration, and I stand ready to help storm-impacted Iowans recover in any way that I can.”
In a press release from Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management, it was announced three more counties had been added to the presidential disaster order: Jasper, Adams and Cedar. The counties of Adair, Polk, Story and Montgomery were included in the original declaration on May 24.
Jasper County pays more rent at Colfax congregate meals site
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Jasper County last week renewed its contracts with elderly nutrition’s congregate meals sites in Colfax and Monroe, which will now both be paid the same amount of rent after The Gathering Place requested an increase a number of months ago. The rent for both facilities is now $400 per month.
Jamey Robinson, director of Jasper County Emergency Management Agency, continues to receive calls from residents who are still negatively impacted by last month’s storms. Many saw damages to their homes and essential utilities like heating and
Go out for Game
Night
Colfax Main Street holding Game Night fundraiser July 12
be paying more rent at its Colfax congregate meals site after the board of supervisors agreed to pay more at the new congregate meals site in Monroe. Payment is now the same as rent for The Gathering Place in Monroe
Kelli Van Manen, program director of Jasper County Elderly Nutrition, said the contract for the Colfax Community Senior Citizens Center was submitted to the supervisors for the original rate of $200 per month. But she said Colfax has expressed a desire to increase the rent, noting expenses have gone up.
“We are currently paying $400 for The Gathering Place,” she said. “Colfax doesn’t have quite as many people attending as The Gathering Place, but they are our backup kitchen and they are currently providing $450 in volunteers per month, helping to deliver meals to help cut expenses.” Van Manen, who has worked elderly nutrition for the past 14 years, told the board of supervisors her budget can afford to pay Colfax $400 per month, especially
Baxter special election July 9
Two city council seats up for grabs in Baxter special election following the city receiving a petition to vote rather than appoint members
By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune
After receiving a petition, the City of Baxter will hold a special election to fill two city council seats. The special election is set for July 9 and will include three candidates vying for two seats. On the ballot will be Joel Schabilion, Dalton Kinzel and Michael Churchill. Voting will take place from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Baxter City Hall. Absentee voting is also available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on normal business days through July 8 at the county auditor’s office at the Jasper County Courthouse in Newton. At the June 10 council meeting, interim clerk Kel-
ly Groskurth informed the council a petition for a special election was received for the seat vacated by former council member Josh Meckley, who resigned at a special May 2 council meeting. The council had approved filling the seat by appointment and at the May 28 meeting selected Churchill to become the newest council member. According to Iowa Code, a petition can be made to hold a special election to fill the seat and one was presented within the time frame needed. Also, because a seat was filled by appointment earlier in the year it is also on the ballot July 9. That seat is currently filled by Kinzel, who has been serving since January.
considering the facility has been paying the $200 rate for many, many years. She recommended the board agree to a rent increase.
Supervisors agreed to pay more rent. Denny Stevenson went so far as to say an increase was probably past due.
| 3
By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune
What’s better than a night with games, pizza and beer?
Raising money for a local project at the same time. Colfax Main Street is holding a Game Night Fundraiser Party from 6 to 10 p.m. July 12 at The Colfax Historical Society Building.
“The idea for the fundraiser came from our organization team,” Colfax Main Street Director Stuart Patterson said.
“One of the volunteers had participated in a similar fundraiser and had a lot of fun and they thought it would be a fundraiser activity that the community would be interested in.”
To participate, a group of six ages 21 and over, or 18 or older for non-alcohol participants, must complete a 550 piece puzzle, consume a large Georgioz pepperoni pizza and drink a case of Busch Light beer over the span of four hours. Whoever gets it done first, wins not
only bragging rights but their entry fee of $300 back. Second place wins half of their registration fee back.
“We are encouraging the teams to dress up with a beach party theme and we will have prizes for best team costume and best individual costume,” Patterson said. “We’re also going to throw in some fun random challenges for the teams to complete.”
Funds raised will be used towards Colfax Main Street project. They hope to have 15 to 20 teams participating.
“One of Colfax Main Street’s more inward strategic transformation strategies is to ‘support a strong, sustainable Main Street Colfax nonprofit program,’ which means we are focusing on increasing volunteerism, sustainability fundraising practices and enhancing communication about the Main Street Colfax program to
for
his home in Newton, the market he was expecting to finish his radio career on his own terms.
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Editor’s note: This is Part one
local news stories was now the top story in
File Photo Two elderly nutrition cooks prepare for congregate meals. Jasper County will now
Christopher Braunschweig/Jasper County Tribune
From left: Joe Swanson, commercial production director, has been spending a great deal of his time at the library to apply
jobs after Alpha Media USA decided to terminate local on-air personalities
Obituaries
Gerritt H. Lourens
June 2, 2024
Gerritt H. “Gerry” Lourens, age 74 of Mitchellville, passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024 at Bishop Drumm Care Center in Johnston. A memorial celebration of life will be held on Friday, July 19th at the Colfax Historical
Society. The family will greet friends starting at 6:00pm and will have a small service consisting of a slideshow of Gerry’s life and a time of sharing. A meal will be served prior to the time of sharing, and all are welcome to attend. Memorials may be directed to The American Cancer Society and condolences may be left for the family at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com.
The son of Gerritt and Mabel (Coen) Lourens, Gerry was born on October 7, 1949 in Des Moines,
A recorded call promises a government grant, flood insurance or help with applications for assistance. Don’t respond or provide personal information or payment to these callers. They may be scammers trying to get your credit card or checking account information, according to Carol Ehlers, human sciences specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
“Scammers often try to take advantage of you during a crisis — when you may be vulnerable and looking for help, particularly when you don’t have phone or Internet service to do research. Be on the lookout for scams by fake government employees, bogus charities, dishonest contractors and others trying to take advantage of your situation,” Ehlers advised.
Recognizing the tricks that scammers use can help you spot scams more easily.
Ask questions
Be alert and ask questions, Ehlers said. For example:
• Can I see your identification and contractor’s license?
Iowa. On June 9, 1990, he was united in marriage to Marcy Osborne in Des Moines. Gerry grew up on the family farm and knew from a young age that farming was his calling. His passion for farming began in the basement with his toy tractors, where he ‘farmed’ the entire basement. This childhood hobby grew into a lifelong dedication to the family farm where he created a beautiful life and lifestyle for his children and grandchildren.
Gerry loved his fam-
ily more than anything and was incredibly proud of the blended family he and Marcy created. His grandkids always looked forward to his pancakes, which he “made with love”. Gerry cherished time spent at the Civic Center, attending concerts, time with friends, bowling, playing cards, enjoying the lake and boating, and looked forward to the next family gathering, sitting on the deck overlooking the Lourens Farm with everyone he loved.
Gerry took immense
pride in maintaining his farm, keeping it well-manicured and ensuring his equipment was in immaculate condition, a testament to his hard work and dedication. Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Marcy; children, Gerry Jr. (Chris) Lourens, Laurie (Matt) Chenoweth, Jess (Michelle) Osborne, Brian (Ashley) Osborne and Natalie (Jenna Darsee) Lourens; 13 grandchildren, Chelsey (Clayton), Colin (Kelsey), Colton, Braydon, Taylor,
Avoid scams following disasters
• Can you provide three recent recommendations from the area?
• How long have you been in business?
If the person trying to sell you a product or service can’t or won’t answer your questions, or if the paperwork doesn’t match the promises made to you, these are warning signs.
Confirm identities
Con artists may pose as government employees, insurance adjusters, law enforcement officials, bank employees or whoever it takes to get to your money. Scammers can easily fake titles and uniforms, Ehlers said.
• Always ask for identification and call the organization the person claims to work for to confirm that the person does work there.
• Never give personal information to anyone you don’t know.
• Remember that government employees will not generally ask you for payment or financial information such as your bank account number.
Don’t make a decision under pressure
After a disaster, contractors and others may arrive at your door offering to help with home repair, debris removal and other disaster-related assistance. Beware of contractors going door-to-door and people offering unsolicited opportunities or high-pressure tactics to force you to make a snap decision.
“Take your time, stop, think and investigate, and never sign anything without fully reading and understanding it first,” Ehlers said. “Stay up to date on possible scams happening in your area.”
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird urges Iowans to be on the lookout for scammers and shady contractors targeting victims of recent storms and flooding. If Iowans are suspicious of a storm-chaser scam or price gouging, they should contact the Iowa Attorney General’s Office at 888777-4590 or file a complaint online.
After major disasters, the Federal Emergency Manage -
Alex(Mellissa), Emily, Addison, Henry, Emma, Cora, Caleb, and Isaac; 4 great grandchildren, Jeremy, Bradley, Charlie, and Hudson; father in law, Al Schornack; sister in law, Jan (Dave); brother in law, Kent (Nancy); and several nieces, nephews, and their children. Preceding Gerry in death were his parents, Gerritt and Mabel; brother, Arnold; sister, Jean; mother in law, Marilyn Schornack; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
ment Agency has a Current Disasters page that lists recent disaster declarations and includes a tool you can use to search by location. Read more information from FEMA about spotting and reporting fraud. If you’re unsure about any offer you receive, contractor you encounter or action you’re asked to take, ask a trusted relative, friend or an attorney for a second opinion before acting.
According to Ehlers, ISU
Extension and Outreach provides access to information and educational resources to help Iowans recover from the current floods affecting northwest Iowa. AnswerLine, 800262-3804, provides information and resources for Iowans with home and family questions. The toll-free hotline is available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Language interpretation is available. Dial 711 for TTY/ TDD.
IDALS offers increased cover crop cost share for Iowa farmers
Iowa farmers interested in planting cover crops this fall may be eligible to receive a higher cost share for their efforts. Applications are now open for an incentive offered through the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s Water Quality Initiative.
Through the program, first-time cover crop users are eligible for $30 per acre, and returning cover crop users are eligible for $20 per acre.
“With a $5 per acre increase from last year, we are thrilled to see this incentive continue,” Cynthia Farmer, senior policy associate with the Center for Rural Affairs, said. “The program demonstrates Iowa’s leadership on conservation and water quality.”
In addition to cover crops, the program supports additional conservation practices that build
soil health and improve water quality. Farmers implementing no-till or strip-till are eligible for $10 per acre, and first-time users of a nitrogen inhib -
sistance.
cooling systems. Others have lost everything.
Unyielding in his approach, Robinson continued to push for further assistance from the federal government by reaching out to the governor’s office, state departments and Iowa lawmakers. He told Newton News he is not sure why Jasper County was excluded from the declaration in the first place. Robinson estimates Jasper County suffered $10 million in damages. He also said 208 people had been impacted by substantial flooding.
As a result of Jasper County being added to the declaration, residents can now apply for Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Individual Assistance Program, which provides affected homeowners, renters and businesses with programs and services to maximize recovery efforts. These services include
housing, personal property replacement, medical expenses and legal services. Individuals and business owners who sustained losses should apply for assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362. The helpline operates from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Residents can also register online at www.disasterassistance.gov or by downloading the FEMA app. Homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofits whose property was damage or destroyed by this disaster may be able to apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration. Small businesses, agricultural cooperatives and private nonprofits impacted may be eligible for capital loans.
Applications for disaster loans or capital loans can be filled out online at www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-as-
SBA’s customer service center can be reached by phone at 1-800-659-2955 or by email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability are encouraged to dial 711 to access telecommunications relay services.
FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are currently being displayed to Clay, Emmet, Lyon, Plymouth and Sioux Counties to help survivors of the record flooding in northwest Iowa. The DSA teams are also assisting residents in Adams, Cedar and Jasper Counties.
FEMA’s involvement is the result of a month of work from Robinson.
“Repeated trips to people’s houses, conversations, gathering information, submitting information — push, push, push, push,” Robinson said.
Robinson told Newton News that he met with federal officials on June 25 and gave FEMA workers the list of reported damages in Jasper County. Most
itor with fall fertilizer application are eligible for $3 per acre.
“As farmers plan for the upcoming season, this financial assistance will provide the necessary support for increased use of cover crops and other conservation practices in Iowa,” Farmer said.
The incentive is limited to 160 acres per participant and cannot be applied to acres enrolled in other state or USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) cost-share programs. However, the incentive may be combined with other climate-smart commodity programs administered by non-NRCS entities.
Interested farmers should visit their local Soil and Water Conservation District office to apply. A list of offices can be found at costshare.iowaagriculture.gov/districts.
of the damages were to homes. Robinson said either three or four businesses reported any damages to their properties. Kellogg experienced some of the worst damage from the floods. Homes in a recent subdivision suffered significant water damage to their basements after a nearby culvert was clogged. Holmdahl Park was completely under water. And the highway leading into town was at one point submerged and
impassable. Robinson said Newton itself had 150 reports of damages. Residents had anywhere from a few inches to a few feet of water in their basements. Jasper County’s inclusion in the president’s disaster declaration means FEMA will meet residents to survey their damage and get them registered in recovery programs. Jasper County EMA is working on creating a response center using one of the FEMA
buses. It will be set up for a few days.
“They’ll look at their damages,” Robinson said. “They can’t duplicate services. So if they have insurance and insurance is paying for it they’re not going to get a check. That is one thing. If insurance isn’t paying it, then they’ll give them money based on the percentage of damages up to a certain amount.”
Important to note: The damaged home must be primary residence.
Adobe Stock
Beware of phone calls from unknown numbers late at night as they could be a scam, fraud or phishing call.
Christopher Braunschweig/Jasper County Tribune
Only the roof of the shelter in Holmdahl Park can be seen during the May 21 floods in Kellogg. A month after the president issued a disaster order for a number of Iowa counties affected by storm damage and floods, Jasper County and two other counties were added to the declaration.
According to the agreement with Colfax Community Senior Citizens Center, the space can
serve an average of 50 to 100 persons at about noon each day, five days per week. The Gathering Place has enough space to serve an average of 20 persons a day, according to the contract. Several months back is
Fundraiser
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increase awareness,” Patterson said. “Our organization team is a group of volunteers who’s focus is to create fundraisers for the Colfax Main Street Program and projects and find ways to recruit new volunteers who are interested in helping make the Downtown Colfax business district a thriving and vibrant place. They’re crucial in helping our program to ‘keep the lights on’ and generating more interest in our program.”
Event organizers encourage teams to be safe and responsible including having designated drivers for when the evening concludes. Additional snacks and drinks will also be available throughout the night.
“I’m looking forward to seeing if a new activity like this is something fun for community members to participate in,” Patterson said. “We’re always trying to figure out what is going to be fun or interesting for community members to participate in.”
Radio
Continuedfrompage1 town.
Alpha Media USA, a radio broadcasting company that owns several stations across the country and had purchased the Newton radio brands in 2015, made staff cuts at many of its Midwestern stations this past May. Which meant that Jamie Grout, Joe Swanson and Randy Van Roekel were taken off the air. Lane couldn’t believe it. He had been listening to the Newton radio stations for the past 40 years. It was a trusted and an immediate source of news, and it provided entertainment for listeners on the road. All three on-air personalities have been replaced with syndicated satellite programming.
“I was shocked,” Lane said. “How can we go without a local radio station in a town of 15,000? Of course the paper now we only get two days a week, and that limits us there, too. Years ago we’d get it every day. With the radio station you could get the news three times a day. My gosh. What
are we gonna do?”
was decided The Gathering Place would be the host for the congregate meals site in Monroe, but it was to also serve as a trial period. If elderly nutrition did not see the numbers, it would drop its contract and move on.
However, Van Manen said the site has been going well and attendance is good.
“We’re averaging 11 a day,” she said. “I was hoping 12 to 15. With summer months the folks that come to congregate sites are more mobile and involved in other community events. But it’s gone well and they have lots of things going well there. We have been able to coordinate on some of those things with them.”
In contrast to the Colfax site, volunteers primarily help at The Gathering Place itself, which lets elderly nutrition staff focus its efforts on deliveries. The Jasper County Board of Supervisors voted 3-0 to approve both contracts.
In addition to listening to the news programs, Lane had also worked with radio staff to promote shows organized by the Jasper County Concert Association, and he even helped do some ads for them for Newton Village and Forbes. Ever since the radio shifted away from its local programming, he has not bothered to listen.
All he hears now is music, and it’s not the type Lane really cares for.
“It’s just a major hole in my life because now I can’t get their local news,” Lane said. “I’d say it’s a real loss to the community, too. We’ve just lost a source of local news. How do we find out what’s going on? Or what the school board is doing? Or what the board of supervisors or city council are doing? It’s a loss.”
Community members have not taken the loss lightly either.
In response to the radio station’s Facebook promotions for a four-person trip to Orlando, community members ignored the prompts and gave ‘em a small-town tongue lashing. Comments show people don’t care about theme park passes or hotel stays.
They care about the people who supported the community.
I wouldn’t want to win a free trip from a station that just fired their longtime local radio persons who helped support our community and replace them with some piped in music with DJs that no one knows and aren’t here for our community! Keep your crap. Wouldn’t take it. Won’t listen anymore either. Great people who support and care about our community were fired. We invited them into our homes to get local news. Maybe you should have kept them. Nope. You fired local talent without warning and autocast the radio stations, so no local info or flavor.
Fran Henderson, a Newton resident and avid follower of KCOB, piped in on Facebook, too. She said listeners “don’t care about Orlando theme parks,” but what they do care about is “local coverage in Newton, Iowa.” In a follow-up interview, Henderson suggested Alpha Media USA doesn’t understand the station’s impact.
“They did so many things,” she said. “Local news and weather in the morning. They cover our football games and basketball games. They have obituaries on in the morning. They’re always supportive of community things like the Fourth of July Parade. Jamie Grout had always provided a commentary for that.”
Similarly to Lane, Henderson depended on both
the radio station and the local newspaper to keep her informed. She enjoyed the Jasper County news reported by Van Roekel and posted on MyIowaInfo.com. Without his reports, Henderson is devastated. She doesn’t plan on listening anymore. There’s no point, she said.
“It’s just wrong. Just so wrong.”
THE VOICES WE LOST: JAMIE GROUT
When Jamie Grout was inducted into the Iowa Rock ’n’ Roll Hall of Fame last year for his almost 50year career as a radio DJ, he held up his trophy and told the crowd: “Not bad for a guy that’s been fired seven times.” The longtime radio man remarked to Newton News that the number has now increased to eight.
For the past 16 years, Grout served as content manager and co-host of the live morning show, The Jolt with Sarah & Jamie, on Energy 106.7, and he also hosted afternoons playing country on KCOB. In the ’80s, he covered mornings for a few years on KCOB. So he was on his “second tour” at the station.
“I don’t know if you’ve ever seen ‘WKRP (in Cincinnati),’ but the theme song talks about going town to town and up and down the dial — that’s kind of what I did after that,” Grout said of his first tour at the radio stations. “I’m glad to have ended up back in my hometown.”
Which is partly why Grout has developed such a big following in the com-
munity. He was a local who fulfilled his childhood dreams of being on the radio. In addition to his radio work, his participation in local groups and community events put a face to the voice on the radio and further solidified his celebrity status. Grout has been in the industry for so long he knows how volatile it can be. So he has taken the firing with a grain of salt, because, after all, he has been through this before. Radio is different than a lot of businesses. It so often has gone in different directions, and when it does it is usually at the cost of staffing.
“I wish nothing but the best for Ron McCarthy, who is remaining at the station, and Sarah (Jorges), who is also staying there in sales,” Grout said. “I wish nothing but the best for ‘em. But I hope and pray the people who have lost their jobs also end up with work or end up doing something where they’re happier.”
In a May 23 Facebook post, Grout bid farewell to his old friends KCOB and Energy 106.7. The post generated almost 500 impressions and more than 200 comments. Community members were overwhelmingly supportive, which tells Grout that the radio stations were staples in Newton.
“It’s always been there for people and they knew they could turn it on to Cardinal sports and local news and events that were going on,” he said. “We did a lot of public service things
Metro Photo A team of six must complete a 550 piece puzzle, consume a large Georgioz pepperoni pizza and drink a case of Busch Light beer, or non-alcoholic beverage, over the span of four hours. Teams are encouraged to dress up with a beach party theme and win prizes for best team costume and best individual costume. There will also be other fun challenges for the teams to complete.
and all that stuff. We tried to help the community. We tried to be ultra-local. And I think we were. Now it’s lost its localism. And that’s too bad.”
Grout is still looking toward the future. Following his termination, he has applied for jobs while working part-time at HyVee. Grout wants to stay in radio. He’s not ready to get out of the business just yet, especially when he is one year shy of making the 50year milestone.
Technically, he could retire. But even if he did, he would still need a job. Working radio in a local market does not result in lavish living.
“You’re not doing this for the paycheck in a market the size of Newton or Marshalltown,” he said. “You’re doing it because of the love of the business.”
Which is why Grout cherishes his memories at the radio station, especially the people he has gotten to know over the years. Those same people have reached out to support him and offer kind words. It is has been overwhelming at times, he said, but it tells him that the on-air personalities made a connection.
“When you’re on the air every day and you reach a certain amount of people, you have this bond with them,” Grout said. “It’s a friendly voice. It’s somebody who is a companion and keeps them company and it’s someone they can trust to keep them entertained and informed. There is a level of trust there.”
Biden bureaucrats punish law-abiding gun owners
Our Constitution’s framers affirmed our right to bear arms through the Second Amendment for an important reason; to provide Americans with means of protection and self-defense. They made this very clear when they wrote “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”
Unfortunately, the Biden Administration has chosen to disregard this principle on which our nation was founded by attempting to impose some of the strictest gun laws in American history.
As the Representative for Iowa’s 1st Congressional District and a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment, I am proud to defend Iowans’ right to
Mariannette Miller-Meeks
bear arms by voting against measures that seek to restrict or ban firearms in the United States.
On January 31, 2023, Biden’s unelected bureaucrats at the ATF published their final rule 2021R08F, “Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached Stabilizing Braces.”
This rule would have retroactively turned millions of law-abiding gun owners – including many disabled veterans – into criminals for simply attaching a stabilizing brace to their pis -
North to Alaska, the last frontier
On our cruise ship, the rugs in the elevators have the day of the week imprinted on them. What a hoot! Is it because there are so many seniors on board that the ship is like a floating nursing home? Or because, on a cruise, we tend to forget what day it is? I dunno but, like a gaggle of geese, it makes for noisy comments on our way to the buffet.
There is no coffee pot in our cabin. Grr. I get up in the middle of the night to write and read and pray. Coffee is required. There are also no electrical plugins in the bathroom, except for one high up on the wall. What gives? Even the most basic no-tell motel has room coffeepots and plugins. I found out that coffee pots and hair dryers are considered fire hazards aboard ship. Okay, I can appreciate that. So, I sufficed by robbing our cabin refrigerator of Diet Coke in the middle of the night. Ka-ching!
This is the Land-of-the-Midnight-Sun. I’m writing at 12:04 a.m. right now and it’s broad daylight. With our insulated cabin curtains drawn, it’s almost like night, but not quite. My middle-of-the-night inspiration is still active, however. Summer Solstice is approaching (longest day of the year) and we can celebrate by staying up all night, or day. Ginnie thinks of everything, and has included in her luggage — blindfolds! She says that I need to stay up here in the winter when it’s the opposite — darkness for 23 hours a day. I could dig it.
With so much daylight, flora grows monstrous. Outside one of our hotels, rhubarb was taller than my head, with leaves the size of elephant ears. Alaskans don’t cut out seed stems like we do in Iowa. They use rhubarb like a decorative plant.
As we approached Juneau, the ship captain comes on the intercom: “There are only three ways of getting to Juneau, Alaska — boat, airplane or birth canal. Ask’a Inuit.” Everyone up here thinks they’re comedians.
As you can discern, Ginnie and I are on vacation in Alaska. We joined with two high school classmates who were gracious enough to include us. The trip is a combination of cruise ship along the coast and an inland tour of the Yukon and Denali National Forrest.
We spent the first three nights in Vancouver, British Columbia (my first time in Canada). I could be impressed by the city. There is so much to see and do. However, the hordes of homeless on the streets of China Town was a bummer. We even saw what looked like a teenage boy, passed out on the sidewalk in the middle of the day. I’m having a hard time wrapping my mind around this social dilemma. My world view doesn’t include a land of plenty with people clawing for existence on the streets. If it was Mexico City, maybe. But Canada?
We went on a whale siting excursion and saw hump back whales putting on a fantastic blow-show. And our steamboat tour at Fairbanks, Alaska might be the best tour I’ve ever been on. A helicopter ride that let us view Dall Sheep, landed on the tundra, and gave us a sight of Mount Denali, was a lifting experience, as was the Tundra-Wildlife Tour and Dog Sled Demonstration. Ginnie got to hold a Husky puppy.
The train ride from Danali National Park to Anchorage was extraordinarily beautiful. We rode in the top viewing seats and had a rare sight of Mt. Denali, wildlife and glacier-swollen rivers and streams.
We spent three nights in Seattle where we went sightseeing on Whidby Island, ate King Crab, then it was home. Buddy could smell the Husky puppy on Ginnie. Uh-oh.
BTW: Alaska doesn’t have snow days. They have snow shoes.
Contact Curt Swarm at curtswarm@yahoo. com
tol to help shoot safely and accurately.
Lawful gun owners could have faced up to 10 years in federal prison, become felons, and received a $250,000 fine for having a stabilizing brace on their lawfully-purchased firearm.
I cosponsored legislation that passed the House to protect millions of gun owners by nullifying this blatantly unconstitutional pistol brace ban rule.
When Democrats tried sneaking a “red flag” provision into the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would have allowed military judges to issue gun confiscation orders without the servicemember even being present in court to defend themselves, I was quick to push back against it and refused to vote in favor of the bill until that provision was removed.
Recently, I voted in the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee for H.R. 705 (the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act). This bill ensures no veteran loses their Second Amendment right
because the VA appoints someone to help manage their VA benefits. H.R. 705 prohibits the VA from automatically sending these veterans’ names and information to the FBI simply because they have a VA-appointed fiduciary. Our veterans deserve the same due process as any other American.
While President Biden penalizes law-abiding American citizens, he lets illegal, criminal aliens run amok across our nation. More than 9.5 million illegal immigrants have crossed the border since Biden took office, and not a single one of them has had a background check.
If he were as focused on securing our border and prosecuting actual criminals as he is punishing law-abiding citizens, we would undoubtedly see a drop in violent crimes around the country.
In Congress, I will continue to defend Iowans and their Second Amendment rights against any encroachment from Biden bureaucrats in DC.
By Steve Corbin
One of the renowned Greek storyteller Aesop’s 725 fables was called “The Donkey and His Purchaser.” In summation a man wished to purchase a donkey and decided to give the animal a trial to see how the donkey would fit in with his herd. He took the donkey home and put him in the field with the other donkeys. Quickly the donkey-on-trial joined the laziest and greediest donkey. Seeing who the new donkey chose to spend time with, the man returned the donkey back to its owner because he knew the donkey-on-trial would also become lazy and greedy. The moral of the story: a man is known by the company he keeps (www.grammarits.com and Greta Dsouza).
Likewise, a parallel five word phrase from the Bible speaks volumes: “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33).
The phrases are all about ethics and morals. If you hang around dishonest people, your association with them reflects a lack of good judgement, moral standards and character. Might an examination of who our mainstream 2024 presidential candidates associate with assist America’s 161.4 million registered voters pick out who to vote for on Nov. 5? Your choice for president could also be a direct reflection on your judgement capability, moral standards and character.
Let’s examine Biden and Trump’s respective election associates as they seek to become the 47th president of America.
To date, Joe Biden’s re-election campaign is based upon seeking advice, guidance and counsel from Julie Chavez Rodriguez (campaign manager), Quentin Fulks (principle deputy campaign manager) and Mike Donilon (chief strategist).
Brandon Talsma, chair 4309 W Fourth St. S. Newton, IA 50208 641-526-3142 btalsma@co.jasper.ia.us
Biden’s national campaign co-chairs include Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (Delaware), Rep. Jim Clyburn (S. Car.), Sen. Chris Coons (Delaware), Sen. Tammy Duckworth (Illinois), Jeffrey Katzenberg (media proprietor), Louisiana Emeritus Rep. Cedric Richmond (Democratic National Committee senior advisor) and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Thirteen others assisting in Biden’s re-election campaign include Colleen Coffey, Jennifer O’Malley Dillon, Mia Ehrenberg, Grace Landrieu, Charles Lutvak, Alana Mounce, Kevin Munoz, Michael Pratt, Michael Press, Roohi Rustum, Sara Schreiber, Becca Siegel and Michael Tyler.
None of Biden’s 23 re-election associates have a criminal record, are under investigation or on trial.
Donald Trump’s national staff campaign is composed of two co-campaign managers (Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles), two senior advisors (Brian Jack and Jason Miller), Steven Cheung as communications director and Karoline Leavitt as national press secretary. These individuals have no criminal record.
The remainder of Trump’s re-election campaign aides, allies, assistants and associates who -- according to Reuters News -- have faced criminal prosecution include Steve Bannon, Elliot Broidy, Michael Flynn, Rick Gates, Paul Manafort, Peter Navarro, Stewart Rhodes (Oath Keepers), Roger Stone and Allen Weisselberg.
Four more people can be added to the Reuters News list by what MSNBC has referred to as “Trump’s team of felons”: Tom Barrack, Kenneth Chesebro, George Papadopoulos and Sidney Powell. USA Today claims five additional Trump election associates who’ve had legal trouble of their own include Jeffrey Clark, John Eastman, Jenna Ellis, Rudy Giuliani and Mark Meadows.
The right-wing conservative-based Wall Street Journal notes to not forget Ray Smith III (one of Trump’s 18 co-defendants in the criminal conspiracy to alter the outcome of the 2020 Georgia election) plus Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira, alleged for mishandling – with Trump - federal secret classified documents at Mar-a-Lago.
And, let’s not forget Trump acolytes and Republican Representatives Andy Biggs (Arizona), Jim Jordan (Ohio), Kevin McCarthy (Calif.) and Scott Perry (Pennsylvania) have violated Congressional ethics rules by defying legitimate Congressional subpoenas related to their involvement in or knowledge of the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the US Capitol meant to overturn the results of a free and fair election.
The Washington Post described the number of people in Trump’s orbit “who’ve been convicted of crimes is so great” as a “remarkable universe of criminality.” Those statements were made in 2019. The size of Trump’s current universe of criminality is even more daunting.
William J.H. Boetcker (1873-1962), a revered Presbyterian minister, is credited for stating “A man is judged by the company he keeps and a company is judged by the men it keeps, and the people of Democratic nations are judged by the type and caliber of officers they elect.”
What will be the caliber of officers `We The People’ elect on Nov. 5? Will the ethics, morals, judgement, character and the company Biden and Trump respectfully keep be a plausible voting guide? Your good (or poor) judgement, moral standards (or not) and character (or lack thereof) may very well be measured by who you vote for on Nov. 5. Steve Corbin, Professor Emeritus of Marketing, University of Northern Iowa
Denny Stevenson 110 Railroad Street Kellogg, IA 50135 641-521-8553 dstevenson@co.jasper.ia.us
Curt Swarm Empty Nest
Geisler-Penquite Foundation funds extraordinary conservation project
The Giesler-Penquite Foundation has partnered with Jasper Conservation Connection, a friends Group for Jasper County Conservation, to fully fund a $700,000 Geisler-Penquite Land Stewardship Lab as the 2nd phase of its Environmental Education Center project. The Geisler-Penquite Foundation gift will create an Outdoor Recreation Center and Prairie Production Lab that includes a greenhouse, prairie production and seed cleaning area, classroom, indoor archery range, public restrooms, and a public use area for canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, cross-country skis, and snowshoes.
“It is so exciting to be a part of this important community project,” Dan Skokan, president of the Geisler-Penquite Foundation Board said. “It perfectly embodies the Geisler and Penquite families’ hopes and dreams for Jasper County.”
Established in 2009, the Geisler-Penquite Foundation’s roots trace back to 1969 when the Geisler Penquite Charitable Corporation was created with $7,000 investment by the Jasper County farm family of John E. and Gertrude Setzer Geisler and their children, Cecil Geisler Penquite and her husband Loren, and Harold Geisler and his wife Mavis. Since then, distribution of the family’s farm holdings and investments have resulted in grants totaling nearly $9 million to Central College and 16 Jasper County non-profit organizations whose missions align closely with the family’s deeply held values
Submitted by Jasper County Conservation
The Giesler-Penquite Foundation has partnered with Jasper Conservation Connection, a friends Group for Jasper County Conservation, to fully fund an Outdoor Recreation Center and Prairie Production Lab.
of hard work, diligence, a love for learning and strong adherence to Christian principles.
Jasper County Conservation staff and volunteers share a commitment to the Geisler and Penquite family values and believe teaching about our local natural surroundings, and seeing others develop that same love of land is the greatest complement to our organization and our conservation mission. “The vision for the Geisler-Penquite Land Stewardship Lab is to create a place for people of all ages to learn about and enjoy nature and agriculture in Jasper County. It will be a great asset in our efforts to recognize the natural history of the area and to teach ways to be sustainable in the future,” Keri
Van Zante, Jasper County Conservation Director, said. “The generosity and support of the Geisler-Penquite Foundation is overwhelming, and we feel so very special to be a part of the Geisler and Penquite family legacy.”
The Geisler-Penquite Foundation and Jasper Conservation Connection challenge conservation supporters to match this generosity to help make the third and final phase of this project, an open-air classroom valued at $500,000, a reality. Those interested in becoming involved with this exciting project can contact Keri Van Zante, Jasper County Conservation Director, at 641-792-9780, or by email at kvanzante@jasperia.org.
Community Calendar
Send items to news@jaspercountytribune.com
SATURDAY • Poweshiek Partners 4-H club meets at 9 a.m. the first Saturday of the month in the C-M Elementary lunchroom
SUNDAY • Colfax Historical Society Museum is open from 2 to 4 p.m. every Sunday through Labor Day.
MONDAY
• Baxter City Council meets at 6 p.m. the second Monday of month at City Hall
• Colfax City Council meets the second Monday of month at city hall
• Colfax Country Club meets at 7 p.m. the second Monday of month
• Mingo American Legion Auxiliary meets at 1 p.m. the second Monday of month
• Mingo City Council meets at 6 p.m. the second Monday of month
TUESDAY • Colfax Farmers Market is open from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at Mineral Springs Park
• Mingo Library Board meets at 5 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month (public meeting)
WEDNESDAY
• C-M Athletic Booster Club meets at 6 p.m. the second Wednesday of month in the high school
THURSDAY
• Baxter Garden Club meets at 7 p.m. second Thursday of month, March to December, at the Baxter Community Building
Safety tips to help families protect themselves against the risks of electric shock
With summer upon us and the 4th of July holiday just around the corner, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is reminding people about potential electrical hazards that exist in swimming pools and hot tubs, onboard boats, on docks and piers, and in waters surrounding boats, marinas, and launch ramps.
While most people are unaware of electrical dangers posed in water environments such as electric shock drowning (ESD), each year people are injured or killed from these hazards. ESD can occur when improperly installed or maintained electrical systems within marinas or boat electrical systems result in electrical current in the water, which can then pass through a person’s body, causing a level of paralysis that can ultimately cause serious injury or drowning.
“Because ESD is not well known, NFPA continues to raise awareness about the presence of electrical hazards in water to help prevent deaths and injuries from happening in pools and waterways,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA
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
schedule
intermittently.
vice president of Outreach & Advocacy. “Never swim near a marina, dock, or boatyard, and have a qualified electrician inspect your boat, swimming pool equipment, hot tub, and spa before engaging in any water activities to ensure all life-saving measures and protection systems are functioning properly.”
Following are tips for swimmers, and boat and pool owners: Swimmers
Never swim near a marina, dock, or boatyard.
While in a pool or hot tub look out for underwater lights that are not working properly, flicker, or work intermittently.
If you feel a tingling sensation while in a pool, immediately stop swimming in the direction you are heading. Try and swim in a direction where you had not felt the tingling. Exit the water as quickly as possible; avoid using metal ladders or rails. Touching metal may increase the risk of shock. Boat owners
Avoid entering the water when
launching or loading a boat.
These areas can contain stray electrical currents in the water, possibly leading to electric shock drowning or injury from shock, including death.
Each year, have the boat’s electrical system inspected by a qualified marine electrician to be sure it meets the required codes of your area, including those set by the American Boat & Yacht Council. Make the necessary repairs, if recommended. Follow the same steps after any major storm that affects the boat.
Check with the marina owner about the marina’s electrical system and whether it has recently been inspected to meet the required codes of your area, including the National Electrical Code® (NEC®).
Have ground fault circuit protection (GFCI and GFPE) installed on circuits supplying the boat; use only portable GFCIs or shore power cords (including “Y” adapters) that bear the proper listing mark for marine applications when using electricity near water. Test GFCIs monthly.
NEVER modify the electrical
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, June 30 - 9 a.m. Fellowship; 9:15 a.m. Bible Education Classes; 10:25 a.m. Message by Pastor Cody Dyer
TUESDAY, July 9 - 3:30 p.m.
Women’s Prayer and Coffee; 6 p.m. Trustee meeting
WEDNESDAY, July 10- 9 a.m.
Busy Bee Quilters and Fresh Encounter Prayer
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 with Holy Communion
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. 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 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
BAXTER CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
system on a boat or shore power to make something work. The code-required safety mechanisms in place are intended to alert people if something is wrong with the boat and with shore power.
Pool owners
If you are putting in a new pool or hot tub, be sure the wiring is performed by an electrician experienced in the special safety requirements for these types of installations and that the completed work is inspected by the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).
Have a qualified electrician periodically inspect and — where necessary — replace or upgrade the electrical devices or equipment that keep your pool or hot tub electrically safe. Have the electrician show you how to turn off all power in case of an emergency.
If there are overhead electrical lines, make sure they have proper clearance over the pool and other structures, such as a diving board. If you have any doubts, contact a qualified electrician or your local utility company to make sure power lines are a safe distance away.
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
Shaw Media
While in a pool or hot tub look out for underwater lights that are not working properly, flicker, or work
Celebrate responsibly
As Iowans celebrate Independence Day, the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) reminds all drivers, No One’s a Good DRUNK Driver. In 2022, a person was killed every 39 minutes in a drunk-driving crash on our nation’s roads. July 3 through July 7, law enforcement across the state will be on high alert for signs of drunk driving and taking necessary steps to remove these dangers from the road.
Every year, the Fourth of July stands out as one of the deadliest times on Iowa roads. Over the past five years (2019-2023), there have been 32 traffic fatalities during the holiday, with 50 percent of those being alcohol related.
Easing pet stress
With the 4th of July right around the corner, it’s important to make sure your pet is safe and calm during firework displays.
The loud booms, pops, and fizzes associated with fireworks can make pets feel uneasy. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to help calm your pet’s nerves. Prepare in advance. Now is a great time to ensure your pet has a properly fitted collar with current ID tag. Make sure your pet’s microchip is registered to you and your contact info is current. If your pet is not already microchipped, ARL Animal Services offers low-cost microchip options. Learn more at ARL-Iowa.org/Wellness
windows open defeats the purpose of being inside in the first place. Keeping the house closed up during firework shows will help minimize the booms, pops, and fizzes your pet hears outside.
Turn on the TV or radio. Playing sounds your pet would hear on a regular basis can also help keep them calm during firework displays.
Use calming sprays or collars. Several companies make sprays and collars for cats and dogs that help keep them relaxed in stressful situations — including fireworks. Most of these products can be found at pet supply stores and veterinarian offices.
Lots of planning goes into Fourth of July festivities, plan for a sober driver. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, be proactive — take away the keys, find a safe ride home, or offer a couch.
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau works with city, county, state, and local organizations to develop and implement strategies to reduce death and injury on Iowa’s roadways using federally funded grants.
“If you sense any level of buzz, it is your duty to stay away from the driver’s seat. For some people, even one drink is too many to drive safely,” GTSB Bureau Chief Brett Tjepkes, said. “Unfortunately, many drivers don’t realize how impaired they are or feel they’re still good to drive after consuming alcohol. That’s why GTSB launched a new campaign this year to remind Iowans, No One’s a Good DRUNK Driver.”
Set up a safe zone. Ideally, this safe zone would be in an interior room or lowest level of your house to help minimize the sound of the fireworks, but ultimately, it should be in a room that your pet feels most comfortable in. Put your pet’s kennel or bed in this room for added comfort, along with some toys. Once the firework show begins, put your pet in the safe zone and close the door behind you until the fireworks are over. If you’re uncomfortable leaving your pet alone during the fireworks, stay with them in the safe zone to cuddle and play.
Keep curtains, doors, and windows closed. Pets should always be kept indoors during fireworks, but being inside with the curtains, doors, and/or
Use a compression shirt. Many pet owners have experienced positive results with compression shirts for their dogs. Compression shirts can be found at most pet supply stores and are convenient anxiety relievers.
Talk to your vet about medications. If your pet gets overstimulated by fireworks, talk to your veterinarian about pet anxiety medication options. Most of these medications only have to be administered before a stressful event (like fireworks), and they can be a big help in calming your stressed pet.
Lost & Found Pets page. Check the Lost & Found Pets page on our website to familiarize yourself with what to do if your pet should ever get lost — or what to do if you find a lost pet, just go to ARL-Iowa.org/LostPet
Shaw Media
The Fourth of July stands out as one of the deadliest times on Iowa roads.
C-M baseball scores season-high 21 runs in win over rival HLV
THORNBURG — The Colfax-Mingo baseball team started the game with seven runs and ended it with seven runs during a 21-3 road win over HLV on June 26.
The Tigerhawks scored a season-high 21 runs thanks in part to 17 walks.
They also out-hit the Warriors 9-5 and took advantage of three HLV errors in the South Iowa Cedar League contest.
Colfax-Mingo led 7-0 after one and 11-1 after three. The Tigerhawks scored three in the fourth and seven in the fifth to end the game early.
Cael Bracewell, Donnie Baucom and Xavier Woods all had two hits to lead the visitors.
Bracewell doubled, tripled, scored four runs, had four RBIs, walked twice and was hit by one pitch.
He’s leading the Tigerhawks with 24 runs, 10 doubles, 18 walks, eight hit by pitches and 43 total bases.
He’s also batting a team-best .408 and has a team-high .613 onbase percentage.
Baucom finished with two hits, two runs, three RBIs and two walks, Woods doubled, scored four runs, walked once and stole
one base and Joe Earles had one hit, three runs, three RBIs and four walks.
Earles leads the Tigerhawks (8-10, 7-7 in the SICL) with 15 RBIs.
Konner Dalton tallied one hit, one run, three RBIs, two walks and one steal and he was hit by one pitch.
Kyle Wood chipped in one hit, one run, one RBI and one walk, Kaden Dalton walked once, was hit by one pitch, scored one run, had one RBI and stole one base and Alex Teed walked twice and scored three runs.
Logan Exley was hit by a pitch and scored one run and Anthony Camp walked once and had one RBI. Camden Cunningham walked once and scored one run.
The Tigerhawks drew 17 walks and were hit by four pitches but also struck out 10 times.
Cunningham (1-5) started on the mound and earned his first career varsity pitching win after allowing three runs — one earned — on four hits, four walks and one hit batter. He struck out eight in five innings.
Boston York led HLV (1-13,
1-13) with two hits, one walk, one run and one steal.
Colfax-Mingo 3, North Mahaska 2
COLFAX — Bracewell belted his third home run of the season and struck out a career-best 18 batters on the mound during Colfax-Mingo’s 3-2 home win over North Mahaska on June 24.
The Tigerhawks broke a scoreless tie with a two-run fourth and added the eventual winning run in the fifth.
The Warhawks plated one run in the sixth and seventh, but it was not enough.
Bracewell (5-1) held North Mahaska to four hits and one earned run in seven innings and 106 pitches.
The 18 strikeouts are the most at Colfax-Mingo in at least the Bound era. He now has a state-best 105 strikeouts in 48 2/3 innings. His earned run average is 1.29 and opponents are batting .136 against him.
Bracewell’s season total of 105 and career total of 308 also are the most at C-M in the Bound era.
He finished with two hits and a solo home run at the plate, while Earles had one hit, one run and one RBI.
BASEBALL | 8
Colfax-Mingo sophomore Kyle Wood, right, jumps back to first base during a home game earlier this season. The Tigerhawks went 2-1 last week with conference wins against North Mahaska and HLV.
Baxter baseball can’t hold lead against BGM
BROOKLYN — The Baxter baseball team scored first and held a lead into the sixth inning, but the Bolts were limited to four hits during a 4-2 road loss to BGM on July 1. Baxter scored twice in the third but couldn’t hold the lead after the Bears scored all four runs in the sixth.
BGM out-hit the Bolts 7-4 and won the non-conference game despite committing three errors.
Perrin Sulzle had two of the team’s four hits and score one run, while Ben Richardson doubled, scored one run, walked once and was hit by a pitch.
Sulzle leads the Bolts with 37 total bases and he’s tied with Richardson with a team-best 24 runs. Richardson is now tied for the team lead with seven doubles.
Colten Damman had the other hit, Cael Wishman walked once and was hit by one pitch and Hayden Burdess and Liam Trent each had one RBI. Wishman drew his team-best 12th walk, Trent now has a team-high 20 RBIs and the Bolts (10-12) struck out 12 times at the plate.
Colton Moffit (6-2) started and pitched into the sixth inning but took the loss after allowing four earned runs on six hits and six walks. He struck out six in 5 2/3 innings.
Wishman got the final out and gave up one hit.
BGM (16-7) was led by Beau Burns, who finished with two hits, one walk and one steal, while Dominic Coleman and Dakota Heishman each had two hits and two RBIs.
Janesville 10, Baxter 3
BAXTER — The Bolts had more hits than Janesville but stranded 14 runners on base during a 10-3 home loss on June 24.
Baxter led 2-1 after one, but the Wildcats tied the game in the third and then pulled away with four in the fourth, three in the sixth and one in the seventh.
The Bolts also scored once in the seventh, but it wasn’t near enough. Baxter out-hit Janesville 13-9 in the Iowa Star Conference matchup.
Richardson, Sulzle, Wishman and Burdess all had two hits. Burdess added two walks, one run and one steal, Wishman doubled and scored one run and Richardson scored one run. Sulzle now leads the team with 30 hits.
Aiden Johnson doubled, walked twice and had one RBI, Cody Spurgeon had one hit and one walk and he was hit by a pitch. Moffit, James Esqueda and Jace Bottorff had the other hits. Spurgeon leads the Bolts (8-7 in conference play) with 10 hit by pitches.
Errors plague Baxter softball in latest losses
BAXTER — Holly Zahurones had two hits and spun all five innings in the circle, but the Baxter softball team was plagued by 12 errors during a 26-2 non-conference home loss to Ogden on June 26.
The Bolts were limited to five hits and the Bulldogs went ahead for good after scoring in the opening inning.
Ogden plated at least one run in each of the five innings and finished off the Bolts with four in the third, five in the fourth and 15 in the fifth.
Zahurones, Baxter’s only senior, had two of the five hits and scored one of the two runs.
She also took the loss in the circle after allowing 26 runs — seven earned — on 16 hits, six walks and one hit batter in five innings.
Zahurones struck out two and dropped to 0-3.
Briah Mortensen tallied one hit, one RBI and one walk, Ken-
dall Brummel finished with one hit, one run and one steal and Camden Moffit had the other hit and contributed one RBI.
Karlee Koehler was hit by a pitch and Avery Wonders walked once. Brummel leads the Bolts (0-19) with 13 steals and 11 runs.
Emma Moorman led the Bulldogs (14-16) with four hits, five runs and three RBIs.
Breanna Wenger tallied three hits, five runs, two RBIs and two walks and Lauren Mathews collected three hits and five RBIs.
Janesville 15, Baxter 2 BAXTER — The Bolts were limited to three hits and committed eight errors during a
15-2 home loss to Janesville on June 24. The Wildcats scored three in the first, two in the second and 10 in the third to win the Iowa Star Conference games in three innings.
Emie Tuhn had two of the team’s three hits, while Brummel tallied one hit and one run.
Wonders walked once and scored one run for Baxter (0-13 in the conference) and Mortensen was hit by a pitch.
Wonders took the loss in the circle after allowing seven runs — three earned — on four hits and two walks in 2 1/3 innings. She struck out two. Zahurones got two outs but not before surrendering eight
runs — three earned — on three hits, two walks and one hit batter. She struck out one. Hayden Pugh led Janesville (9-14, 6-7 in the conference) with a homer, three runs, two RBIs and two walks.
Collins-Maxwell 14, Baxter 0 COLLINS — Erica Houge homered and spun a no-hitter in the circle for Collins-Maxwell and the Spartans downed the Bolts 14-0 in three innings on June 21. Class 1A No. 5 Collins-Maxwell scored eight in the first and six in the second to end the game early.
Jasper County Tribune
Brummel Tuhn
Jasper County Tribune
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune Baxter eighth-grader Colten Damman had one of the team’s four hits in a road game against BGM on July 1. The Bolts lost to the Bears, 4-2.
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Colfax-Mingo senior Konner Dalton, left, pitches the ball to sophomore Alex Teed for the force out at second base during a home game earlier this season.
Jasper County Tribune
Troy Hyde/ Jasper County Tribune
Bracewell
C-M
July 6
Baseball Districts
Class 2A District 13
Colfax-Mingo vs. Woodward-Granger at Ogden, 5 p.m.
Class 1A District 14
Baxter vs. Madrid at Ankeny Christian Academy, 5 p.m.
July 8
Softball Regionals
Class 1A Region 4
Baxter at BCLUW, 7 p.m.
Class 2A Region 4
Colfax-Mingo at Woodward-Granger, 7 p.m.
July 9
Baseball Districts
Class 2A District 13
Colfax-Mingo/W-G winner at Van Meter, 7 p.m.
Class 1A District 14
Baxter/Madrid winner vs Ankeny Christian/ Panorama winner at TBA, 7 p.m.
July 10
Softball Regionals
Class 1A Region 4
Baxter/BCLUW winner at BCM, 7 p.m.
Class 2A Region 4
Colfax-Mingo/W-G winner at Iowa City Regina, 7 p.m.
July 12
Softball
Regional semifinals, TBD
July 13
Baseball District championship games, TBD, 7 p.m.
July 15
Softball Regional finals, TBD
C-M softball falls to pair of SICL rivals
COLFAX — The Colfax-Mingo softball team led after the first inning and scored seven runs in the first three frames but couldn’t hold back BGM during an 18-7 loss on June 26.
The Tigerhawks scored four runs in the first and led 7-4 after three but the Bears plated 14 runs in the final three frames to rally in the South Iowa Cedar League contest.
The game ended after six innings due to the 10-run mercy rule.
Emma Cook had two hits, two RBIs and one walk to lead Colfax-Mingo, while Dakota Allen had one hit, one run and one RBI. Allen leads the Tigerhawks with 13 RBIs.
Victoria Woods had the other hit, Olivia Rausch walked once, scored two runs and stole two bases, Katelyn Steenhoek walked once, scored one run and had one RBI and was hit by one pitch and Brooklyn Yanske chipped in one walk, one RBI and one run.
Rausch leads Colfax-Mingo (2-17, 1-14 in the SICL) with 17 runs and 11 steals. Sydney Veasman and Brianna Freerksen scored one run each and Veasman tallied two RBIs.
Freerksen (1-8) took the loss in the circle after allowing 11 runs — four earned — on five hits and one walk. She struck out one in 2 2/3 innings.
Yanske also pitched 3 1/3 in-
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Exley tallied two hits, one double and one RBI, Baucom had the other hit and Kaden Dalton walked once and scored one run. Konner Dalton was hit by a pitch and stole one base.
The Tigerhawks and Warhawks split the season series, but Colfax-Mingo has won three of the past four and four of the last six.
Lucas Nunnikhoven led North Mahaska (9-13, 8-7) with a double, triple and two runs.
BCLUW 20, Colfax-Mingo 19
BEAMAN — Colfax-Mingo’s non-conference game against BCLUW on June 27 featured just about everything.
The Tigerhawks trailed by four runs after two innings, took a lead with a seven-run third but lost 20-19 after committing five errors.
The C-M pitchers also walked 14 and hit two batters. The Tigerhawks led 14-9 after four and maintained a five-run lead after five, but the Comets scored eight in the final two frames to walk it off.
Colfax-Mingo drew a season-high 21 walks and was hit by five pitches but also struck out nine times.
The 19 runs were the most by the program in a loss since at least the 2008-09 season.
Bracewell and Earles had three hits to lead the offense, while Kaden Dalton tallied two hits and Konner Dalton walked five times.
All three Bracewell hits were doubles and he added three runs, two RBIs and three walks, Earles collected four runs, scored one run and was hit by a pitch and Kaden Dalton doubled, scored three runs, had two RBIs, walked four times and stole two bases.
Baucom and Woods each had one hit. Baucom finished with three RBIs and one walk, Woods added two runs, one RBI and two walks and Konner Dalton scored one run.
Teed walked three times, was hit by a pitch, scored four runs and had one RBI, Jace Lewis walked twice, scored two runs and had one RBI and Exley was hit by two pitches, walked once and scored two runs.
Kaden Dalton (0-1) took the loss after allowing 11 runs — nine earned — on eight hits and eight walks in 2 2/3 innings.
Konner Dalton pitched four innings and surrendered nine runs — four earned — on four hits, six walks and two hit batters. He also struck out two.
Cael Keller led BCLUW (7-12) with three hits and four runs.
nings and surrendered seven runs — three earned — on eight hits.
Ryanne Van Dee led BGM (12-8, 9-7) with five hits, four runs, three RBIs and two steals and Jeryn Kalinay had three
hits, three runs and two steals. Laila Morrison chipped in two hits and four RBIs.
North Mahaska 14, Colfax-Mingo 4
Six different Tigerhawks had
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Brummel walked once and stole two bases and Blaire Jutting walked once. The Bolts were out-hit 9-0 and committed two errors.
Wonders (0-12) took the pitching loss after allowing eight earned runs on five hits and four walks in 2/3 innings.
Zahurones pitched 1 1/3 innings and surrendered six earned runs on four hits and three walks.
Houge homered, had three RBIs and stole two bases, while Cypress Erickson finished with three hits, three runs, four RBIs and three steals. The Spartans (23-2, 13-0) stole 11 bases.
Houge struck out nine and walked two over her three innings.
Clarksville 12, Baxter 0
CLARKSVILLE — Baxter had more errors (5) than hits (0) during a 12-0 road loss to 1A No. 12 Clarksville on June 19.
The game was scoreless after one inning, but the Indians scored seven in the second and five in the third to end the game early.
Clarksville out-hit the Bolts 8-0 and the Indians committed one error.
Mortensen and Moffit both walked once to lead the Bolts’ offense.
Jutting (0-2) took the pitching loss after allowing nine runs — two earned — on four hits, four walks and one hit batter in 2 1/3 innings.
Zahurones got one out. She surrendered three runs — none earned — on two hits and two walks.
Hannah Wangsness led Clarksville (17-8, 12-1) with two hits and three RBIs.
Notes: Games against Ankeny Christian Academy and Belle Plaine scheduled for June 25 and June 28 were canceled due to weather. … The Bolts open 1A Region 4 postseason play against conference rival BCLUW at 7 p.m. on July 8 in Conrad. Baxter lost 9-6 and 7-1 to the Comets this season.
one hit, but North Mahaska cranked out 10 hits and took advantage of three Tigerhawk errors during a 14-4, five-inning victory in SICL play on June 24.
The Warhawks led 2-1 after one before scoring three in the second and fifth, one in the third and five in the fourth. C-M plated two in the fourth and one in the fifth but it wasn’t enough.
Freerksen had one hit and two walks, Woods tallied one hit, one walk, one run and one RBI and Allen doubled and had one RBI.
Rausch and Steenhoek each registered one hit and one run, Cook had one hit and one walk and Macie Porter walked once and scored one run. Veasman registered one RBI.
Freerksen pitched three innings in the circle and took the loss after allowing 11 runs — eight earned — on seven hits and five walks.
Yanske surrendered three runs — one earned — on two hits, two walks and one hit batter in two innings.
Olivia Ridgeway and Madeline Doonan each had two hits and three runs and Kaylia Shipman tallied two hits, two runs and two RBIs for North Mahaska.
The Warhawks (8-11, 8-7) stole seven bases. Ridgeway swiped two bags.
Notes: Colfax-Mingo opens Class 2A Region 4 postseason play against Woodward-Granger at 7 p.m. on July 8 in Woodward.
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Johnson (1-3) took the pitching loss after allowing six runs — three earned — on four hits, four walks and one hit batter in 3 2/3 innings. He struck out three.
Trent tossed 1 2/3 innings and surrendered one earned run on one hit and two hit batters. He fanned one.
Wishman allowed no earned runs and two hits and struck out one in his one inning, while Nolan Hill surrendered three earned runs on two hits, one walk and two hit batters in 2/3 of an inning. Hill struck out one.
Janesville (13-11, 13-2 in the conference) was led by Trevor Forey’s four hits and four runs. Talan Pietz had two hits and two RBIs.
Notes: The Bolts’ home game against Melcher-Dallas scheduled for June 25 was canceled due to weather. Baxter’s home game against Belle Plaine on June 28 was postponed to July 2. ... Baxter opens postseason play against Madrid at 7 p.m. on July 6 in Urbandale. The game is being hosted by Ankeny Christian Academy.
freshman Kendall
had one hit and one run in games against Janesville and Ogden recently. Brummel leads the Bolts with 11 runs, nine hits, 13 steals and nine total bases and also has drawn four walks.
Kendall Brummel
Baxter
Brummel
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Colfax-Mingo sophomore Brianna Freerksen puts the ball in play during a home game earlier this season.
