TIME TO TAILGATE A new downtown destination location
WHO13 RVTV headed to Baxter to celebrate the annual Cy-Hawk football game Sept. 5
By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune
It’s Cy-Hawk week and Baxter gets to celebrate the annual in-state rivalry football game with the RVTV crew from WHO13. The town will trade in Bolt purple for black, cardinal and gold Sept. 5 and party it up throughout the day and night.
“It honestly came about very fast and I wasn’t sure we had a chance, but it was so easy to tell WHO13 why Baxter is the perfect place for
RVTV to stop and everything Baxter is about,” organizer Amanda Moorman said. “After a great friend and local business owner encouraged me to fill out WHO13’s 2024 RVTV Host City Application for Baxter, an email was received on April 29 congratulating us on being selected as one of the stops chosen on RVTV’s road to the Cy-Hawk game.”
Planning kicked off right away and while bringing together another community event
might have been stressful, Moorman said it was a lot of fun. The people who stepped up to make RVTV’s Baxter stop great put in the hard work and the event is bigger and better then they hoped for.
“Without the people who stepped up to be a part of this team and committee, it would have never became this big,” Moorman said. “Our main goal throughout all of the planning is to showcase our hometown of Baxter.”
Activities begin when the WHO13 RVTV crew rolls into town at noon. The kickoff party starts at 3:30 p.m. along with the kids carnival and inflatable and Robert Yeltman live music.
WHO13’s first live broadcast starts at 4 p.m. with a second one at 5 p.m.
Colfax adds pocket park next to city hall
When the City of Colfax remodeled the building that became the new city hall location, city leaders also had their eye on the alleyway next door. After years of work, that space is the newest pocket park for the community to enjoy and a bright spot in downtown Colfax.
Let’s Paddle Skedaddle
The fourth annual Paddle Skedaddle is set at Quarry Springs Park in Colfax. Whether paddling around in a kayak or taking a trail run through the park, this event is a fun, unique experience.
“It was a wonderful event,” Quarry Springs Park Board Vice President Kim Seebeck said.
The race pushes off at 8:15 a.m. Sept. 8 at Quarry Springs Park. It has a two-mile kayak course to “paddle” and a three-and-half-mile trail run to “skedaddle.”
New for 2024, there is a dog walkers category for the walk/run only option. Dogs should remain leashed, and bags will be included at registration.
“We want to encourage anyone with well-behaved dogs who love to walk or run to join us,” Seebeck said.
Chip timing will also be provided this year by B&W Racing Services to give racers their exact finishing time. Racers need to provide their own kayak, and life jackets are a must. Quarry Springs Outfitters will have a limited number of kayaks available to rent for $10 each. To participate, it is $45 solo or $35 as a team member. Runners only pay $30.
Packet pickup runs from 7 to 7:30 a.m. at the park office with a racer meeting to follow at 8 a.m. Organizers anticipate participants should be able to finish the race in about two hours and 15 minutes if going at a walk and easy paddle pace.
“We always planned on this when we bonded for city hall. When we were building city hall it was a time of high inflation, and with any project of this magnitude there are change orders that come along. So funding ran out,” Colfax City Administrator Wade Wagoner said. “We had kind of an ugly alley
Fourth annual kayak and run/walk race set for Sept. 8 at Quarry Springs Park
Newton Clinic and MercyOne to pause all labor, delivery services
Years of recruitment challenges, OB-GYN shortages force rural medical centers to stop services after Oct. 15
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Newton Clinic and MercyOne Newton Medical Center are going to pause all labor and delivery services indefinitely, citing a decade of “significant recruitment and physician workforce challenges” that have forced the care centers to now investigate other options to provide these types of services to rural areas.
In a joint statement released on Friday, Aug. 30, by Newton Clinic Administrator Mark Thayer and MercyOne Newton Chief Operating Officer Chad Kelley, the clinic announced it will cease its search for physicians dedicated to obstetrics. The hospital, in turn, must stop all newborn deliveries after Oct. 15.
All mothers expected to deliver after Oct. 15 are encouraged to continue their prenatal care appointments with their obstetrical physician in Newton Clinic to discuss their care and options for trans-
fer and delivery. Mothers scheduled to deliver prior to that date will continue to receive care and can deliver in Newton.
“As difficult as this decision is, patient safety is of utmost importance to both organizations,” the statement said. “Both the Newton Clinic and MercyOne Newton Medical Center will continue to commit to the high standards of prescribed and emergency care followed by every care center in Iowa.”
Furthermore, hospital policies and procedures — along with interfaculty arrangements — are in place to safely care for and triage all patients.
Nurses employed in the labor and delivery department at MercyOne Newton Medical Center will be offered continued employment in other positions and departments. Thayer told Newton News in a follow-up interview there is nothing he worked harder on in the past five years than recruiting obstetrics providers.
“We’ve had success bringing in
providers and then all of a sudden the door just shut on us in the past 12 months,” Thayer said in a recent phone interview. “We’re losing Dr. (Sarah) Florence, and we can’t do it with one doctor.
Dr. (Tara) Gravenstine has announced no plans to leave.”
Newton Clinic is actively looking for options for Gravenstine to deliver her patient’s babies at other hospitals or at least provide prenatal care. Thayer said the clinic historically has exclusively provided obstetrics services at the adjoining hospital; it was the only hospital that providers were able to deliver at.
“That has worked for probably the last 100 years,” Thayer said. “At one point almost every one of our doctors did OB. I’ve been at the Newton Clinic now for 28 years and I think at one time I had six providers that were all doing OB. Part of the problem is as providers get older they sometimes pull back on services.”
Other factors are at play, too. Thayer
said some doctors are lacking cesarian section, or C-section, experience when they compete their residency. To establish that competency, he said it takes a minimum of 25 to 50 completed C-sections. There was a time when Newton could train those services locally.
“But they don’t allow that anymore,” Thayer said. “We’re also finding a lot of new doctors just want to have an outpatient practice and don’t want take on OB or really even step foot in a hospital. Really, they just want to have a clinic practice. Which is understandable. We’re kind of faced with two storms simultaneously.”
Health experts have been warning about the shortage of obstetricians and gynecologists for years. Thayer said it has been challenging trying to find that skillset for Newton Clinic. It is also cost-prohibitive for the clinic to have
Photo by Mary Dell Flattery
The fourth annual Paddle Skedaddle is set for Sept. 8 at Quarry Springs Park in Colfax.
Photo by Stuart Patterson
Colfax Mayor David Mast cuts the ceremonial ribbon at the new pocket park next to city hall in downtown Colfax Aug. 27.
Submitted Graphic
WHO13’s RVTV will be in Baxter Sept. 5 with the kickoff party starting at 3:30 p.m.
By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune
By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune
OWLS program ‘Woodpeckers: The Hole Story’ documentary
Jasper County Conservation Board will host an Older, Wiser, Livelier Seniors (OWLS) program at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11 at the Jasper County Armory/Annex Building in Newton. The
public is invited to come for coffee and a showing of the 2023 Nature documentary “Woodpeckers: The Hole Story”, which highlights the incredible and unique adaptations of woodpeckers. Natu-
ralist Katie Cantu will briefly talk about the woodpeckers in Jasper County and give tips for attracting them to your yard.
OWLS conservation program encourages se -
niors to stay active and learn new things about the natural world. Contact the Jasper County Conservation Board office at 641-7929780 for more information.
Miller-Meeks announces fall contest for Iowa students
Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) announced a fall writing contest dedicated to honoring the state of Iowa. The contest is open to elementary, middle, and high school students in Iowa’s 1st District and is a unique opportunity for students to highlight what they love about the Hawkeye State.
“Iowa 1st District has a robust culture of writing as the home of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Iowa is also home to great schools and a rich heritage grounded in hard work and the American spirit,” Miller-Meeks said. “In honor of the state we all love and cherish, I am proud to invite students from Iowa’s 1st District to submit works of writing and art on what makes Iowa special.”
Winners will be honored with a meeting opportunity with Congresswoman Miller-Meeks and works acknowledged in the congressional record.
Contest Details
The prompt for this year’s competition is “What makes Iowa special?”
Submission Requirements
Essays should not exceed 450 words
Visual art submissions must include a caption/description
Include the student’s name, school, grade/year, and a parent or guardian’s contact details (address, phone number, email)
Eligibility and Categories
High School Students: Written Essay (3 winners)
Middle School Students: Written Essay (3 winners)
Elementary School Students:
Written Essay or Visual Art (3 winners) Deadline and Announcement Submit entries by email by Sept. 28
Winners will be announced by Oct. 10 Contest questions and submissions should be directed to Anthony. Fakhoury@mail.house.gov.
Annual CWS/CROP Walk Oct. 6
By Barry Hurto Special to the Jasper County Tribune
The 78th annual CWS/CROP Walk to alleviate hunger needs in Iowa, the United States and abroad, will begin at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6 on the west side of the Jasper County Courthouse in Newton, according to Barry Hurto, Jasper County Chairman. Most of the local churches who usually take part have been contacted through Mission Coalition (an interdenominational committee made up of the mainline
congregations in Newton) and will raise funds through pledges, collect those monies, and turn them into their team leaders prior to the date of the walk. “We will welcome with open arms new groups wanting to have a part in this year’s walk.”
“The final amount raised (in 2023) through pledges and online contributions totaled $4,134.66, with 25 percent of that amount ($1,033.67) split among our local agencies. The Salvation Army received $620.19; and the Food Pantry of Colfax, the
Kellogg Food Pantry, the Baxter Food Pantry and the PCM Food Pantry each received $103.37,” Hurto said. “If these figures are a trifle disappointing, please bear in mind that many churches, both in Newton and Jasper County, continue to reach out to those in need through their own Blessing Boxes, which provide free essentials (mostly non-perishable food) to the homeless and needy, and Neighbors Helping Neighbors also supports projects where hunger is an issue.
“With the cost of all
food products increasing each year, I must applaud those (and mainly the members of your congregations) who have given generously to support Church World Service and CROP in their global outreach. I’m very proud of our local participation and offer my heartfelt congratulations to all who have made it happen through the years,” Hurto said.
The route will be provided at the gathering on Oct. 6, and a reception for the participants will be at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Latham Hall following the event.
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
MONDAY
• BEDCO meets at 5:30 p.m. the first Monday of month
• Colfax Cub Scouts Pack 345 meets at 7 p.m. the first Monday of month in the C-M High School Cafetorium
• Colfax Planning & Zoning meets at 7 p.m. the first Monday of month at the library
TUESDAY
• 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
• Hominy Ridge 4-H Club meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of month in the Baxter School Cafeteria
• Colfax Public Library Board of Trustees meets at 5 p.m. the first Wednesday of month in the downstairs meeting room.
• MEDCO meets the first Wednesday of month
• Baxter City Library Board meets at 7 p.m. the first Wednesday of month at the Baxter Library
THURSDAY
• Baxter Garden Club meets at 7 p.m. second Thursday of month, March to December, at the Baxter Community Building
DNR State Forest Nursery accepting seedling orders
The DNR State Forest Nursery is gearing up for fall 2024 and spring 2025 seedling orders.
Seedlings can be ordered Sept. 3 - May 30. The bare-root seedlings are packaged in bundles of 25 inside sealed and labeled plastic bags.
Tree varieties include 23 species of native hardwoods, eight evergreen species and 15 smaller trees and shrubs. Prices range from $.80 to $1.20 per seedling. Seedlings are sold in three age classifications, and range in size from 10-30 inches depending on the species.
Evergreens and a few other species are only available for spring delivery; all other species are available both spring and fall. Fall delivery is in November and spring delivery is in April and May. Customers can choose to have their order shipped or they can pick it up at the State Forest Nursery in Ames.
“Planting trees and shrubs can help landowners reach a variety of goals,” said Pat Griffin, DNR State Forest Nursery manager. “Native, affordable seedlings are available to help you make your planting successful.”
The DNR State Forest Nursery sells approximately 1 million seedlings per year, and 3-5 million seedlings are grown on-site at any given time. Located on 98 acres just south of Highway 30 in Ames, the nursery was established by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, and has operated continuously ever since.
For more information, visit the online sales site at http://nursery.iowadnr.gov/ or call 1-800-865-2477 during regular business hours, Monday – Friday. DNR’s expert nursery staff can assist with species selection and answer questions about your tree needs and nursery offerings.
Safety reminders when using ATVs and UTVs
Many farmers and ranchers are owners of various ATVs and UTVs. While these machines are efficient and practical, remembering all safety precautions while riding is important.
In this article, Steven Freeman, professor in agricultural and biosystems engineering at Iowa State University, offers some basic safety advice.
Number of riders
An ATV is designed to have only one rider, whereas a UTV may be designed for multiple riders. If more than one person is riding an ATV at a time, this changes the center of gravity on the machine and how it is going to function. Always make sure that the ATV is sized appropriately for the operator.
Having proper registration when using an offroad vehicle is important. When operating an ATV on your own farm, no license or registration is needed. However, if you are operating the ATV on
state or public land, registration is required. Riders ages 12-17 are required to have a valid education certificate on their person when operating. Riders younger than 12 must be under direct parental or adult supervision. Wear a helmet When operating an ATV, operators should wear a helmet. If the helmet does not have a face shield, then appropriate eye protection is recommended. Appropriate clothing is also a must. Long sleeve shirts or jackets, heavy pants, boots and gloves should be worn. If an incident occurs, appropriate clothing offers the operator more protection from road injuries, along with being protected from brushy vegetation and the sun. Operators on a UTV should be wearing a seatbelt. A helmet is recommended depending on the situation.
If you are riding an ATV on a trail for an extended period of time,
padded gloves are suggested. This reduces the stress and strain of holding onto the handlebars and helps the operator maintain control. Along with riding on a trail, it is important to remember that you need to stay visible on an ATV. This means
that your lights must be working correctly, and you should wear a bright colored jacket or safety vest. Before going anywhere, a safety check of the whole piece of equipment should be performed. This way, you know the machine is working in the best condition. A necessary farm tool
It is also important to remember that ATV and UTVs have a place on farms. Many farmers and ranchers use ATVs to herd their cattle. Using an ATV can be a more practical option for the farmer as they can go places that a pickup cannot, but the operator must be paying attention to the terrain. More information is available in the ISU Extension and Outreach publication Safe Farm: Promoting Agricultural Health and Safety.
Metro Photo
Writing contest dedicated to honoring the state of Iowa due Sept. 28.
next to the beautiful city hall so I set out to try to find grants.”
After working with Main Street Iowa to develop drawings of what the park would look like, Wagoner set out to make it a reality. He struck gold with the T-Mobile Hometown Grant which gave $46,000 to the project.
“The main one was T-Mobile. They gave us almost $50,000,” Wagoner said. “Jasper Community Foundation kicked in almost $5,000, and that was enough to buy the furniture, lay the brick, make the sculpture and plant all of the flowers.”
Work started last fall and continued throughout the spring and summer. A ribbon cutting was held Aug.
Paddle
Awards will begin at 10:30 a.m. and be presented to the top male/ female in the following age categories: 17 and under, 18 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 and over.
THE COURSE
Start the paddle just southwest of the main office along the shoreline.
Paddle south, then east towards the east lake. Go around a buoy and head back to the finish/transition just north of where the race started.
OB
27 to celebrate the official opening of the pocket park.
A unique addition to the park is a sculpture designed by Colfax Main Street Director Stuart Patterson and fabricated by VS Fab Works. Featuring waves passing over each other, it brings the community’s past and present together in one space.
“This was an underutilized alley and now it’s a great outdoor ‘living room’ space for the community to hang out at,” Patterson said. “There’s still potential to add cool features in the future like outdoor string lights, murals and more. We’re looking forward to seeing how the project continues to evolve.”
The new park was full of people to celebrate the new addition to the city. It is a space that is poised to see continued use and become a destination spot in downtown Colfax.
“It is beautiful — I love it,” Wagoner said.
Drop the kayak off with the help of our volunteers, run through the transition area and start your run or tag your partner to get started.
The run will head west alongside the road to the park and then to the southwest corner of the park towards the dike trail entrance. The run will head east for a mile through woods, then north around the east lake towards the isthmus between the north and east lake. The last three quarters of a mile will be through a sandier soil and back towards the finish line near the park office.
two OB-GYNs on staff because it lacks the volume to support it.
Newton’s higher percentage of Medicaid reimbursements — which typically do not reimburse as well as commercial insurance — also limits revenues. While costs certainly play a factor in maintaining plentiful and quality maternal care, Thayer said it is not the primary factor.
“The main factor is doctors are coming out of residency without having C-section competency, and only a small percentage of them want to even do OB,” he said.
Although Thayer was skeptical any political issues had any affect on the clinic, many warned the state’s more restrictive abortion law passed one year ago would have a strong negative impact on rural health care, which was already steadily losing many of its labor and delivery units.
According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Iowa ranks 52 out of 52 states and territories for OB-GYN physicians per capita.
Thayer noted the clinic’s location between two other maternal care provider areas 30 minutes away gives patients more options and thus limits their volume of deliveries. Newton Clinic typically delivers 100 babies per year. A
RVTV
Continuedfrompage1
and final live shot at 10 p.m. or whenever the NFL game finishes.
“We have a lot of activities and events happening throughout the afternoon into evening,” Moorman said. “We have more than 40 businesses/families who will have tent spots lining Main Street in Baxter. It has been truly incredible to see the amount of people both businesses and families that stepped up to be apart of this event and support Baxter RVTV.”
Additional events include at 50/50 raffle for a Cy-Hawk cooler and Jason Kincel live music at 4:30 p.m., Baxter Bolts pep rally at 5 p.m., Jordan Beem live music at 6 p.m., the NFL game on
the big screen at 7 p.m. and Cody Hicks band at 8 p.m.
“We will have five food trucks in addition to our local businesses who will also have their storefronts open,” Moorman said.
“There is a whole street designated to being our Kid’s Carnival area with inflatables, snacks, cotton candy and carnival games. In addition, we have our veteran’s memorial that is currently working to bring a Huey Helicopter into Baxter to add to our memorial park right on Main Street. It’s truly going to be a breathtaking addition.”
While Baxter may be off the beaten path, it is a strong community with a lot of pride in what they have built. From the school district to the growing downtown, the organizers are excited to invite everyone to see what makes Baxter great.
couple of years ago staff were delivering upwards of 190 babies per year.
“That number has trended down partly because we’re getting really choosey in terms of risk factors,” Thayer said. “Patients that have elevated BMIs are unable to deliver in Newton, and if they have other prenatal risk factors they are typically transferred to higher care facilities such as Des Moines.”
Pam Pratt, a Newton mother of two boys, was sad to hear the labor and de -
livery services were put on hold for the foreseeable future.
“Both of our boys were delivered here in Newton, and we had great experiences with both prenatal and delivery care from the doctors and nurses at the clinic and MercyOne,” she said. “It is heartbreaking for the city to lose access to this kind of medical care. Thank you to the doctors and nurses who served our community well.”
Nicole Terry, a Newton moth-
“Having special events like this in Baxter can make such an impact, not only on our community and businesses, but also on all of those who come to visit. So often the small-town atmosphere is forgotten and diminished with the fast-paced life and those who just pass on by,” Moorman said.
“When people get to really come inside, be welcomed by this community and take it all in, I think that’s when you realize how important these small communities really are.
“You get a chance to see the people and the buildings and the true beauty that lies within the walls that one day can be turned into something amazing. It may not always be easy times here, but, man, do we stick together. And when you ask for support, you get a whole crowd that will stand up with you.”
er whose 1-year-old son was born in town, was also saddened to hear the recent news. Her son was a geriatric, high-risk pregnancy, and Terry had appointments twice a week, two hours in length, during the last month before delivery.
“I was, and am, lucky enough to work within walking distance from Newton Medical Center and walked to many of my appointments,” she said. “I cannot imagine having to drive 30 minutes to and from medical appointments multiple times a week, while also recognizing that I am that much further from emergency labor and delivery services.” Jasper County is now is an obstetrics desert, and that will not only affect future decisions for her family but many other young families in similar situations.
Terry said if she was thinking of expanding her family now, not only would access to services be a concern but also transportation costs, emergency situations, greater loss of sick leave before maternity leave and future family appointments after delivery for herself and her child or children.
“I loved my doctors, nurses, and entire experience at Newton Medical Center labor and delivery,” Terry said. “I am happy I was able to deliver so close to home with such excellent staff. I feel for all those affected by this news and worry what the long-term effects of this closure will mean for the future of Newton and its growing families.”
Jamee A. Pierson/Jasper County Tribune
Colfax Main Street Director Stuart Patterson designed the sculpture at the new pocket park located next to Colfax City Hall
Christopher Braunschweig/Newton News Newton Clinic and MercyOne Newton Medical Center announced on Aug. 30 they are pausing all labor and delivery services after Oct. 15, which leaders say is a result of a decade of recruitment struggles.
Request your absentee ballot now
By Rita Hart Iowa Democratic Party Chair
After losing my 2020 Congressional race by just six votes, I know firsthand how close elections can be and how important it is that every Iowan votes in 2024.
Iowans have a chance to vote in four Congressional races that could determine who gets the majority party of the U.S. House of Representatives and how much our next President can accomplish during his or her first two years.
There’s so much on the line, from securing reproductive freedom nationwide to the survival of the Department of Ed-
YOUR VIEW
ucation, the future of Medicare and Social Security, and even the ability to negotiate for prescription drugs and keep the price of insulin under $35 a month. That doesn’t even scratch the surface of what we can get done at the local level.
That’s why I wanted to let you know you can request your absentee ballot now. Voting from home is safe, convenient, and secure.
To request your absentee ballot, go to your local county auditor’s office. Remember to bring a valid form of identification. If you’re a new voter or need to register to vote, you will need to bring a document like your utility bill so you can prove your place of residence.
You can also print an absentee ballot request form from the Iowa Secretary of State’s website, sos.iowa.gov and mail it to your local county auditor.
Within the last two years, the Iowa Democratic Party has been working hard to lay the groundwork and we have put in the time and energy into the party it-
Public money should go to public schools
With a new school year starting it is worth remembering that during the years Iowa Republicans have controlled both houses of the legislature and the office of the governor, they seem to have forgotten what is important to Iowans. This has been particularly true in how public education has been handled.
The Red Pride signs we see around Newton are only one example of how Iowans everywhere value their public schools.
The Republicans in the Iowa Legislature seem to have forgotten this because the money appropriated to fund our schools has not kept pace with inflation year after year. The Republicans have allowed the financial support of education in Iowa to deteriorate. Inadequate funding means we are failing our children.
Rather than seek solutions to improve our schools, which benefit thousands of students, the Republicans have turned their backs on them. Republicans instead voted to support private and religious schools by giving vouchers of tax money to parents so they can send their children to these schools. This benefits only a small number of students by comparison.
Public money should go to public schools. It is simply the most cost-effective way to educate our children.
Voters in District 38 need to elect Brad Magg to the Iowa House in November. He believes sustainable funding for public schools is vital to the future of our state. He will not forget what is important to Iowans.
Robert W. Holley Newton
Brad Magg’s dedication is long-standing
As a former high school teacher, coach and athletic director, I have written several letters of recommendation. Brad Magg is running for the office of Iowa House District 38, and it is an honor to recommend Brad for this position.
It can be said that Brad is a person of experience beyond his years. Brad began his catering business while still in high school and owned his first restaurant at the age of 20.
I have served several years on the Colfax City Council with Brad and like everything Brad does in his business ventures,
SHARE YOUR VIEW
he is an all-in work horse as a city councilman. He will not be outworked by anyone. I have witnessed firsthand the love Brad has for Colfax, and I know he loves Jasper County and the State of Iowa the same way.
Brad Magg will be committed to serving the 38th District with the same dedication and work ethic he has put into all the projects and opportunities he has taken on.
Vote for Brad Magg; he will work for all of us!
Bryan Poulter, retired teacher, coach and athletic director Colfax
Letters to the Jasper County Tribune will be edited for libel, grammar and length and should not exceed 400 words. We reserve the right to shorten letters and reject those deemed libelous, in poor taste or of a personal nature. Include your full name, address and a daytime phone number for verification. Signed columns as well as letters to the editor and editorial cartoons represent the personal opinion of the writer or artist.
Submit letters to news@jaspercountytribune.com or Newton News, P.O. Box 967, Newton, Iowa 50208
self so we can get out the vote.
This includes working with our county parties, which are the foundation of the party itself. Reach out to your county party to get involved, to get local information, or to talk about your local candidates today. Your county party is run by your friends and neighbors who volunteer because they understand the power of the voting booth and recognize that local representation really matters. The work that they do is vital to the democratic process.
This year, the Iowa Democratic Party has raised more money than the Republican Party every quarter. While working on strengthening our party, we’ve also helped get Democrats like Kimberly Sheets elected in Warren County, sold out our largest fundraising event – the Liberty and Justice Dinner – two years in a row, and we are building stronger relationships than ever with our Democratic leaders like Jennifer Konfrst, Pam Jochum and Rob Sand.
These successes and relationships are vital as we look to pick up more seats in the Iowa House and Senate this year, and we begin our long journey to regaining a Democratic majority.
The Iowa legislature has been under Republican control for so long that they have become extremely partisan and no longer fairly represent the majority of Iowans.
Their extreme policies ban abortions at six weeks, give millions of dollars to private schools, cut our Area Education Agencies that provide crucial services to Iowa’s children and families, and fail to feed Iowa’s children who are going hungry through no fault of their own.
The only way to bring some common sense and balance back to our state legislature is to elect some Democrats so that bipartisanship has a fighting chance.
I hope you’ll consider requesting your absentee ballot now, or make your plan to vote at IowaDemocrats.org/PlanYourVote.
68 days in captivity
When 82-year-old Roy Libby and his wife Karla of Mt. Pleasant hear of hostages being taken, it brings back memories and emotions that hit home. Three and a half years ago, on Jan. 3, 1989, Roy and his fellow missionary associate, Richard Grover, were taken hostage by a group of guerrilla fighters near Cali, Colombia, at their annual church association conference.
The insurgents appeared out of a sugarcane field disguised as Army soldiers, but their ragtag appearance made them suspicious. The guerrilla fighters said they were there to protect the missionaries from fighting that was going to occur nearby. Soon, it was revealed that they wanted Roy and Dick to accompany them for the purpose of bringing back a communique. Since the church congregation of more than 100 was unarmed, there was no alternative but to accompany the soldiers.
All-in-all, compared to savage brutality that hostages can be subject to today, Roy and Dick were treated well. It was more of a spiritual retreat for them, but traumatic for their families. Their wives didn’t know if their husbands were being tortured, or why they were taken, or if they would be released.
The captors asked them what they would like to have to help pass the time. Would they like a pocket knife for whittling? Roy thought this was a strange thing to ask a prisoner, but decided to ask for a Bible and something to write on. They were furnished with two Gideon New Testament Bibles, with Psalms and Proverbs, a hymnal and a devotional, plus a small pad of paper. Roy wrote in tiny print short “daily prayers” revealing events in such a way that it wouldn’t incriminate the soldiers. During their 68 days of captivity, Roy and Dick read through the New Testament six-and-a-half times, and Psalms five times. They read a Proverb a day. It was their mental and spiritual food. On two
school notebooks, Roy wrote 76 devotionals in Spanish. (In training for missionary work, they had been taught Spanish.)
Never were guns pointed directly at them, and at times guns were even stacked within easy reach of the captives. Roy and Dick prayed for God’s Will to be done. They were moved twenty times in the foothills of the rugged Andes mountains of Colombia. Each farmhouse, or simple shelter would be the stopping place for this band of nine or ten. Sometimes these stopping places had been abandoned and other times were inhabited by families.
Although they never witnessed nor were subject to violence or brutality, it was always just under the surface. At one farmhouse where they were held, the previous owner had a son murdered when the father refused to let his son be taken by the guerrilla group.
Most of the dozen or so combatants were of the 15 – 20-year age, with little more than a second-grade education. Their prize possession was their weapon.
Roy and Dick were given the best places to sleep, which could be a single or double bed, a dirt or board floor, or concrete. Every meal was provided to them first. On the first Saturday evening in captivity, the owner of the house had returned with a sack of small bread rolls. He gave everyone a roll. Roy and Dick saved one of these rolls so that they could have holy communion the following Sunday morning.
The second in command of the guerrilla group, Orlando, had a girlfriend, Jenny. Orlando asked Roy and Dick what they were reading. Dick without reservation said, “We’re reading from the book
of Thessalonians, where we are told that our savior, Jesus Christ, after He was crucified, rose from the dead and then ascended into heaven. We are expecting Him to return for his believers. That could happen any day, and if it does, you won’t be able to find us.” That very night there was a radio broadcast in Spanish entitled, “The Day the Lord Came Back.” Orlando and Jenny came into Roy and Dick’s room and listened to the broadcast.
On Sunday, March 12, 1989, Roy and Dick were released without demands nor monetary exchange. The kidnappers stated, “We had been informed that you were members of the CIA or DEA and it was our responsibility to put you on trial. It was discovered that there was not enough evidence to convict or acquit you.” They demanded that Colombia stop extraditing Drug King Pins to the U.S. for prosecution.
Both Roy and Dick’s families had been moved to Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Roy and Dick flew to Quito where they were reunited with their families. Their families were so relieved to see them. Both men enjoyed a much-needed vacation and spent time sharing the stories of God’s grace during their captivity. They returned to missionary work, Roy as Director of Ethnic Ministries with a Baptist Association in Oregon for 25 years, and Dick to teach in Ecuador. Roy and Karla have been married 61 years. The two families continue to be in contact.
Twenty years following his kidnapping, Roy and Karla went back to Colombia to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the church’s mission in Colombia. One of Roy’s captors came forward and asked for forgiveness. And Roy was told that Orlando had found Jesus Christ.
The Lord works in mysterious ways. Contact Curt Swarm at curtswarm@yahoo.com
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Curt Swarm
Empty Nest
150 ATTEND COLFAX/COLFAX-MINGO ALUMNI BANQUET: COLOR THE WORLD
Saturday May 25th was a beautiful day for class reunions and a lovely evening for the 111th Annual Colfax/Colfax-Mingo Alumni Banguet. One hundred and fifty attended the banquet this year! So happy to see our numbers up and so many new faces that, I was very happy about, and several of our younger alumni, it gave me hope. It was a great day and evening of reminiscing with old and new friends.
We had a delicious meal of Porkloin and gravy, cheesy potatoes, greenbean casserole, lettuce salad, roll and butter, coffee and iced tea. Our dessert for the evening was apple or cherry pie. I had many compliments on the meal. Thank you to Altoona Hy-vee for the delicious food.
The theme was chosen by the 50 year class “Color The World”. The decorations were based on crayolas. The tablecloths were white, splattered with primary colors all over, with crayons scattered down the center of the tables. I bought out the Dollar store on anything Crayola. We also had Quart jars with orange and blue raffet insided, with various color ballons, thank you to Denise Rawlins Bracewell for sharing with us!!! The stage curtain was decorated with plastic sticky decals of colored crayons, a crayon fleece throw, looking like a box of crayons, covered the podium. On each side of the podium were three, 3 foot blow up colored crayons. The program, was designed by the 25 year,class ErinHerbold Swalwell 99’ and Libby Hysell Carlton 99’, printed by Carter printing.
The program began with President Denise Rawlins Bracewell 85’, she as welcomed and congradulated the honored classes, 1974, celebrating their 50 year reunion, as well is the graduating class of 2024, she gave a special welcome to her twins, Cael and Marissa. Congrats to the 25 year class 99’.
Denise then introduced, Erin Herbold Swalwell 99’. Erin did a lovely job of welcoming everyone and kept the evening running smoothly. She then introduced Alumni Secretary /Treasuer, Monica Guy Hysell72’, to give the annual secretaries and treasurers report. To save time at the banquet, Monica put her thank you’s in the program. Those thank you’s are as follows; thank you for the 13 alumni , friends and students that stuffed 2,400 envelopes. To Karen Schlooser Rawlins ’63, who put lablels on the 2,400 envelopes, thank you. Ben Cooper and the school personel for setting up for the banquet, thank you. To fellow alumni who decorated Denise Rawlins Bracewell 85’ Marissa Bracewell 24’ Karen Schlosser Rawlins 63’, Marianne Lester Glasford 63’, Terry and Monica Guy Hysell 72’ for decorating. To Ms.Korie Whiteman, and “Generation On” for being our servers at the Banquet, thank you and to supply us with the sound.
To the best officers out there, thank you, you are great!!! Thank you the Becky Carter 99’, for the beautiful bou-
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 monthMarathon Sunday includes elders, board, potluck and food pantry
FIRST MONDAY of monthWIC appointments
IRA UNITED CHURCH
Rev. Michael Omundson
SUNDAY - 9:30 a.m. Church service; 10:15 a.m. Sunday school (communion first Sunday)
quets and donating them, for our special quests.
To my husband Terry, thank you for your help and support, I couldn’t do this without you. To all of you Fellow Alumni, for coming to the Annual Alumni Banquet, you are what makes this possible, thank you each and everyone of you. Thank you all again, it takes a small villiage to make this possible.
Monica then began by extending her Congratulations to the honored classes 1974, the newest members of the graduating class of 2024, where they can return and reminisce old memories and make new with their fellow alumni.
Congratulations to the class of 99’, which is the class of her daughter, Libby Hysell Carlton.
Old business, there was know old business for the night.
New business, As we have been talking about doing a new roster, we are happy to announce, we have a new one published this year in 2024. They can be purchased in Colfax, by contacting, myself or Karen Schlosser Rawlins 63’. The price is $20, to mail one to you out of town will cost $26, that includes the postage and envelope. So if you want one please don’t hesitate to get one, they are really nice with a laminated cover and spriral binding. Other new business, tonight we have 32 towns other than Colfax-Mingo represented; Urbandale, Prairie City, Mitchellville, Waukee, Altoona, New Virginia, Coralville, Gladbrook, Burlington, Boone, Ames, Atkins, Iowa City, Des Moines, Waukee, Newton, Norwalk, Newton, Denver, Sheldahl, West Des Moines,Centerville, Boone, Ames, Atkins, Runnells, Polk City, Baxter, Carlisle, Pella, Grimes and Mt.Vernon. as well as 6 states; Nebraska, Florida, Illinois, New Hampshire, Washington and California. It is you that travel from all over of the US that make our banquet so special. Thank you!!
Which leads me to a very special part of the banquet, we have several special guest with us this evening. Our 4 eldest graduates of the evening, Agnes Conn Pease 1945 is celebrating her 79th reunion! 1949-Celebrating her 75th class reunion this year, Mary Ellen Goss Van Dusseldorp. Joyce Wadsworth Pierce 1947 is celebrating 77 years and in 1950, Virgina Beals Hunter 1950, celebrating her 74th reunion. Each one was given a bouquet of flowers, donated by Becky Carter 99’’. Other class reunion years for this year are; 1954-70 years, 195965 years, 1964-60 years, 1969-55 years, 1974-50 years, 1979-45 years, 1984-40 years, 1989-35 years, 1994-30 years, 1999-25 years, 2004-20 years, 2009-15 years, 2014-10 years, 2019-5 years.
The following are recognized for their perfect attendance over the years and deserve to be recognized; 1954-70 Years- Sharon Tomlonovic Padgett, Marilyn Thompson Rhone 1971-53 years- Charles Wilson 1976-48 years- Don Lester 1984-40 years- Christine Daft Da-
mon This then has concluded the secretary and treasures report of 2024.
Erin, did a great job as the MC for the evening, and had many gracious words to say to her fellow alumni. Mary Clarke Newton 74’, filled in as our pianist for the evening, thank you, Mary. Then we all stood and sang the “Orange and the Black”.
Superintendent Mr. Tim Salmon was introduced by Erin, and informed the alumni the many great things that are happening in the district, proud of the academics and achievements accomplished by students. Erin introduced Mary again as we all stood to sing Onward C-M!!!!!
The John Reynolds award ’41 was presented by Vice President Cassie DeVoe Cook 02’. John Reynolds was a graduate of the class of 1941 who was killed in a tragic mid-air airplane crash in December of ’65. In ’66 the award was established by his wife in his memory. John was a dynamic, fun loving, hardworking individual with a motto, “A quitter never quits and a winner never quits.” Congratulations to 2024 recipient Cael Bracewell. Cael, is a fine young man as he is great athlete that has greatly bestowed the characteristics required for this award!!!
Cassie continued on introducing the graduates, parents, grand-parents, great- grandparents of the graduating class of 2024 that attend the banquet. The Pierce family had 4 generations represented tonight!! Joyce Wadsworth Pierce, Lenis Pierce Steenhoek, Erika Steenhoek Earles and Joe Earles. Erin then introduced the 50 year class speaker, Robert, “Bob”, Davidson. Bob too, said he was proud to have four generation of the Davidsons to be in the school district, his dad, himself, daughter and his grandchildren. He took the the trip down memory lane of the gas prices, housing prices, food prices and more. The best music, cars and much more. Lots of laughs telling stores on the class. Great job Bob, very well done!!!!
Erin then read the memorials of thosed who have passed on since last May. We do have a list also of others that we have learned that has passed as well. The list is as follows; I have the list attached.
Erin, then introduced Denise, for the farewell, as she expressed her gratitude for everyone coming to the banquet return home safely. It was a great night and a good time was had by all. We concluded by singing “Auld Lang Syne”!!!!!
Those attending the banquet are as follows;
Honorary guest-Tim Salmon, superintendent, 1945-Agnes Conn Pease, 1947- Joyce Wadsworth Pierce, celebrating 75 years, 1949- Mary Goss Ellen VanDusseldorp, 1950-Virginia Beals Hunter, 1953-Darren Clippinger and 2 guests, 70 year class of 1954-Marilyn Thompson Rhone, Sharon Tomlonovic Padgett and Mr., Bill Hansen, Bill Payn-
Church Schedules
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
FRIDAY, Sept. 6 - The Cellar following the Colfax-Mingo home football game
S. Locust & W. Division St. Office - 674-3782 Rev. Phil Dicks pastor
SUNDAY - 10:30 a.m. Sunday School; Family Worship; Today is Food Pantry Sunday
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
ter, Phyllis Freestone Moffitt and son, Stanley Daft, Francis Duffy Larrabee and Mrs., Bob Russell and Mrs., 1956Delories Zachary Shepley, James Warnock, Leroy Hydock and guest, 1957Keith Russell 1958-Karen Kintz Russell, Grace Tomlonovic Brown, 1959- Docela Edwards Chatterjee 1960-Ron Wing, Janice Case Wing. 1962-Edward Hansen, LeVern Faidley, Pat Findley Underwood, Roger Brown, James Pieper. 1963-Marianne Lester Glasford, Karen Schlosser Rawlins, Celebrating 60 years, 1964- Sheryl Wing McWilliams, Dennis Rawlins, 1965- Gene Steenhoek, Judie Shepley Lafferty 1966-Lenis Pierce Steenhoek, Carl Dale Tiffany, Richard Griggs 1968- Don Wing, Earl DeRocher, Terry Leanord 1969-John VanBoord, Jyce Rorabaugh 1970- Jim Tomlonovic 1971- Chuck Wilson 1972 - Denise Pierce Bell, Terry Hysell, Monica Guy Hysell, Connie Pease Luppes, Jeanine Husson Sage, Tim Normandin 1973-Mark Husson, Charlet Rachels Daft, Bob Rhone, Dennis Smith 1974-celebrating 50 years, Karen Van Dusseldorp, Joe Robson and Mrs., Donna Rhone Harvey, Don Earles, Mardell Ingraham Tomlonovic, Rick Samson and Mrs., Barb Hysell South, Marilyn Faidley, Nancy Stevens Rhone, Janet Wing Gould, Jim Riddle, Teri Hadsall Gilbert and Mr., Eric Sage and Mrs., Debra Challen Mendenhall, Robert Davidson and Mrs., Larry Daft, Duane Brandhof and Mrs., Sue Snowden Sampica, Mark Bell, Diane Bowie Richardson, Vernon Rawlins, Kevin and Belinda Wierick Williams, Mary Clarke Newton 1975- Bill Daft and Mrs., Diane Pierce Stocker and Mr., Rhonda VanDusseldorp Spain and Mr., 1976-Willow Williams Patterson, Steve Patterson, Don Lester 1977-Michelle Raper Wing, Joel Sage, NancyHammer Earles, Steve Weirick, Tony Brown and Mrs., Galen Shepley, Rusty Thompson, Deanna Steenhoek, Dennis Lester and Mrs., Larry Debruyn and Mrs., 1978- Kathy Daft Wolf, Donnie Roam 1979-Celebrating 45 years, Caren Robson Clevenger, Sheila Clarke Bresse, Debra Ferguson Wing and Mr., 1980- Marla Shepley, Randy Brown and Mrs., 1981-Debi Brown Hainer and Mr., Jeanette Warnock Roam, Danny Williams 1982-David Daft, Lori Pierce Smith, JD Smith. 1984- Celebrating their 40th reunion year-Melissa Beuher Daft, Christine Daft Damon, Cheryl Lafferty Wiggins 1985- Denise Rawlins Bracewell and Mr. 1986-Rowdy VanCleave 1989- celebrating 35 years Tonya Steenhoek Nicholson 1990-Christy Tiffany Hibbert and Mr., 1991-Mark Earles 1994- Celebrating 30 years Erika Steenhoek Earles, 1999- celebrating 25 years, Erin Herbold Swalwell 2002 Cassie DeVoe Cook and Mr. 2005- Kim Davidson Lang 2009- Katy Davidson Wasko 2023- Cole Bracwell, Seniors-2024- Joe Earles, Marissa Bracell, Cael Bracewell. Monica Guy Hysell ‘72 Secretary/Treasurer of Colfax/Colfax-Mingo Alumni Association
Church: 641-227-3382
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 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 Pastor Ben Spera
SUNDAY - 10 a.m. Worship
WEDNESDAY - 6 p.m. Bible Study
THIRD THURSDAY of month6:30 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
Slow start plagues C-M football in loss to Wayne
By Troy Hyde Sports Editor
COLFAX — The Colfax-Mingo football team can’t take away the first quarter it played against Wayne on Aug. 30.
But the Tigerhawks will use the positives they saw from the final three frames of their 26-7 loss as reasons to feel optimistic moving forward in head coach Drake Buscherfeld’s first season.
Wayne scored the game’s first 26 points and led 20-0 after one quarter, but Colfax-Mingo outscored the Falcons through the final three periods and outgained its visitors by 23 offensive yards.
“I thought our guys fought really hard. Maybe harder than they ever have,” Buscherfeld said. “We played much better in the second half. I’m not saying without the first quarter we win, but the box score says that.”
There were six scoring drives in the game between the two teams. But neither squad had one that went more than 53 yards. And Colfax-Mingo’s two longest drives covered 68 yards and 56 yards but both resulted in no points.
Wayne used a short field after a blocked punt on C-M’s opening drive of the game to score first. The Falcons drove 19 yards in three plays and Fischer Buckingham ran for 14 on the final play to make it 6-0.
Colfax-Mingo’s Shane Hostetter hooked up with newcomer Caden Sykes for 38 yards on the Tigerhawks’ next possession, but the drive stalled after a sack, penalty and tackle for loss.
Wayne then made it 14-0 when it drove 51 yards in four plays. Karter Murphy converted a third and 8 with a 24-yard run and then found Cole Gibson for a 25-yard touchdown.
After C-M’s third drive went for negative yards, Wayne went back to work with anoth-
er short field. This time, the Falcons drove 32 yards in five plays. Murphy’s 18-yard TD run pushed the margin to 20-0.
“We started off really poor. We gave them a touchdown on the blocked punt,” Buscherfeld said. “Then the quarterback broke a tackle or two on a short field and we are down 14-0 like that. We just couldn’t come back from that. But I believe we won the second half.”
Colfax-Mingo’s longest drive came on its next possession.
The Tigerhawks (0-1) used two Hostetter runs to secure their
first first down of the night and back-to-back completions to Sykes moved the chains again.
C-M nearly lost possession on a fumble but got the ball back before Hostetter eventually completed another pass to Sykes for 28 yards.
In a goal-to-go situation, Hostetter ran the ball four straight times but couldn’t get in. The Tigerhawks had fourth and goal from the 1 but went backwards to end the possession.
“When you get on the inch line, you have to score there. We
made too many mistakes penalty-wise, too,” Buscherfeld said. “We just have to start faster. I’m proud of our guys. I think a big issue during our scrimmage was not fighting back when adversity hit, but I think we battled back and got a lot better. We just have to execute better offensively.” Wayne (1-0) led 20-0 at halftime and neither team scored in the third. The Tigerhawks forced a turnover on downs after Wayne drove 40 yards in 10 plays and then stopped the Falcons after 15 yards in three plays on their next drive.
Wayne scored on its third drive of the second half to go up 26-0. It drove 53 yards in eight plays and Gibson grabbed a 4-yard TD pass on fourth and goal.
The Tigerhawks flipped the field on their next drive but stayed off the scoreboard despite moving the ball 52 yards in 14 plays. The biggest gainers on the drive were a pair of screen passes to newcomer Wyatt Carpenter that resulted in 35 yards.
But after C-M’s final first down of the drive, there were three incomplete passes, a holding penalty and a sack.
The Tigerhawks were sacked five times in the loss and Wayne also registered 9.5 tackles for loss.
“They have two really good defensive tackles. We haven’t seen anything like that yet,” Buscherfeld said. “We are very young up front. I thought they battled well and figured it out at the end. I think we also have to stand in the pocket and trust it a little bit more. That’s on us coaches. Sometimes we tell them to bail and we shouldn’t. I’ll take the blame on that. I believe in the offensive line. We’ll get better.”
The Tigerhawk defense forced Wayne into a punt on its next-to-last possession and the short field resulted in points for the hosts.
After an incompletion on first down, Hostetter hooked up with Sykes for a seventh time and this one went for 24 yards. Hostetter scored from 1 yard out on the next play.
“I feel very good about how the defense played,” Buscherfeld said. “I will take some of the blame as far as just not being ready to play right away. Maybe we have to look at a different pre-game.
C-M volleyball wins twice at home tournament
COLFAX — The Colfax-Mingo volleyball team opened its season with a split of its four matches during the annual Tigerhawk Volleyball Invitational on Aug. 31.
Colfax-Mingo began its day with a win over Jasper County rival Baxter and also scored a sweep against Murray, but the Tigerhawks lost to Coon Rapids-Bayard before falling to GMG in the semifinals.
Baxter swept Murray in pool play but lost to East Marshall despite claiming the first set. The Bolts also lost to Coon-Rapids Bayard.
The tournament expanded from four to eight teams this season. One pool featured Colfax-Mingo, Baxter, Murray and Coon Rapids-Bayard, while the other included Nodaway Valley, East Marshall, Iowa Valley and GMG.
Coon-Rapids Bayard downed Iowa Valley in the semifinals and then defeated GMG in the championship match. East Marshall defeated Baxter in the matchup of third-place teams.
Colfax-Mingo opened its day with a 21-12, 14-21, 15-9 win over Baxter.
Back-to-back aces by Trinity Smith made it 8-4 in the first set.
An ace by Kaylee Collins pushed the margin to 11-5 and the Tigerhawks eventually scored six straight to go in front 15-5.
A tip kill by Smith made it
18-9 and Britney Keeney’s kill extended the lead to 20-10. Dakota Allen’s kill gave C-M the match lead.
The Bolts (1-5) jumped out to a 4-0 and 7-1 lead in the second set. Kills by Kendall Brummel and Abbie Meyer led the early charge and the lead stayed at six before Smith closed the gap to 11-9 following a pair of kills and an ace.
Colfax-Mingo got its deficit to 12-11, but kills from Denver Sulzle and Meyer and an ace from Caydence Sulzle pushed the margin back to four.
An ace by Kaylyn Krampe kept Baxter’s advantage at four and Meyer finished off the set win with back-to-back aces and a kill.
The third set belonged to Colfax-Mingo. The Tigerhawks forced a Baxter timeout after jumping out to a 7-1 lead. That stretch included an ace by Katelyn Steenhoek, a kill by Keeney, a block by Smith, a service error and a net violation.
The Tigerhawks never trailed by fewer than four the rest of the way. A tip kill and consecutive aces by Smith pushed the C-M lead to 13-6 and two service errors by the Bolts ended the match.
Smith led the Tigerhawks (22) with seven kills and five aces, while Cadence Linn added two kills and five digs. Steenhoek dished out 11 assists, Keeney registered three kills and two blocks and Collins tallied five digs. Allen collected three digs and Victoria Woods and Grace Hunsberger each put down two kills.
The Tigerhawks were 42-of50 in serves with seven aces. They had a kill efficiency of .188. Collins served 9-of-9 and Smith was 9-of-10.
Keeney had two kills, two digs and five aces in Colfax-Mingo’s 21-17, 21-14 win over Murray. Smith also had four kills and five digs and Steenhoek contributed seven assists and two aces.
Collins finished with six digs and three aces and Allen had two digs. The Tigerhawks were 35-of-41 in serves with 12 aces. Steenhoek served 9-of-9.
In Colfax-Mingo’s 21-17, 2119 loss to Coon Rapids-Bayard, Smith finished with five kills and eight digs and Steenhoek dished out 11 assists and collected four digs.
Collins posted six digs and two aces, Hunsberger put down four kills and Keeney chipped in
three kills. Linn contributed five digs. Colfax-Mingo was 35-of-37 in serves with four aces and had a kill efficiency of .167. Collins was a perfect 8-of-8 in serves. Malia Clayburg led CR-B (7-0) with 13 kills and Amelia Cook delivered 16 assists. The Crusaders had a kill efficiency of .255. In the 21-16, 21-14 semifinal loss to GMG, Colfax-Mingo was led by Steenhoek, who had 13 assists, two kills and three digs. Smith added five kills, five digs and two blocks. Keeney chipped in three kills and two digs, Collins collected five digs and Hunsberger put down three kills. Linn and Allen
both tallied three digs. The Tigerhawks were 26-of-31 in serves and had a kill efficiency of .107.
GMG (4-1) got nine assists and four kills from Hadlee Hempy and the Wolverines produced a kill efficiency of .318.
Baxter lost to Coon Rapids-Bayard 21-18, 21-8. Clayburg finished with seven kills and nine digs, Anna Hart chipped in 10 digs and Cook dished out 14 assists. The Bolts won the opening set 21-15 against East Marshall but lost 21-16, 15-10 in the final two sets.
Baxter’s statistics from each match were unavailable at press time.
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Colfax-Mingo senior Shane Hostetter (11) ran for 63 yards and a touchdown in the Tigerhawks’ 26-7 loss to Wayne in their season opener on Aug. 30.
Troy Hyde/ Jasper County Tribune
Colfax-Mingo junior Britney Keeney defends at the net against Coon Rapids-Bayard on Aug. 31 during the team’s annual home tournament in Colfax.
Jasper County Tribune
Meyer
Sports calendar
September 5
Cross Country Colfax-Mingo coed at Ottumwa, 4:15 p.m.
September 6 Football
Grand View Christian at Colfax-Mingo, 7 p.m.
Baxter at Coon Rapids-Bayard, 7 p.m.
September 7
Cross Country
Baxter coed at Central College, 9 a.m.
September 9 Volleyball
Colfax-Mingo at BGM, 7:30 p.m.
September 12
Volleyball
Baxter, Valley Lutheran at BCLUW, 7:30 p.m.
Cross Country
Baxter coed at Colfax-Mingo, 4:30 p.m.
September 13
Football
Colfax-Mingo at Saydel, 7 p.m. Fort Dodge St. Edmond at Baxter, 7 p.m.
September 16
Volleyball
Colfax-Mingo at Montezuma, 7:30 p.m.
Cross Country
Baxter coed at South Tama County, 5 p.m.
Colfax-Mingo coed at Pleasantville, 5 p.m.
September 19
Volleyball
Colfax-Mingo at HLV, 7:30 p.m.
Cross Country Baxter, Colfax-Mingo coed at Colo-NESCO, 4:30 p.m.
September 20 Football
Colfax-Mingo at EBF, 7 p.m.
Baxter at Glidden-Ralston, 7 p.m.
September 23
Volleyball
Colfax-Mingo at North Mahaska, 7:30 p.m.
September 24
Volleyball
Meskwaki Settlement
School at Baxter, 7 p.m.
Cross Country Baxter, Colfax-Mingo coed at West Marshall, 5:15 p.m.
September 27
Football
Cardinal at Colfax-Mingo,
7 p.m.
Colo-NESCO at Baxter,
7 p.m.
September 28
Volleyball
Baxter at BGM tournament,
9 a.m. September 30
Volleyball
Lynnville-Sully at Colfax-Mingo, 7:30 p.m.
Baxter volleyball drops first two matches of new season
BELLE PLAINE — Karlee Koehler dished out 16 assists, Abbie Meyer finished with 17 digs and Adison Bonney put down 10 kills, but the Baxter volleyball team lost twice during its season openers on Aug. 27.
The Bolts fell in straight sets to Highland 25-19, 25-15 and lost in two sets to host Belle Plaine 25-12, 25-20.
In the loss to Belle Plaine, the Bolts were led by Koehler’s eight assists, Meyer’s nine digs and Bonney’s six kills.
Alyvia Burdess also dished out six assists, Caydence Sulzle tallied seven digs, Denver Sulzle put down four kills and Kendall Brummel had two kills. It was the varsity debuts for both Denver Sulzle and Brummel.
Baxter was 29-of-33 in serves with four aces and it had a kill efficiency of .324.
Allison Hoover led Belle Plaine (20) with 12 assists, four digs and six aces and Kayleah Laughlin tallied five kills, four digs and six aces. The Lady Plainsmen had a 16-4 advantage in aces.
In the loss to Highland, Meyer led the Bolts (1-5) with five kills and eight digs. Koehler tallied eight assists, Caydence Sulzle chipped in 11 digs and Bonney put down four kills.
Burdess dished out two assists and collected four digs, Brummel tallied three digs and Danika Flora had two digs. The Bolts were 26-of-35 in serves.
Highland (2-3) was led by Ava Sexton’s four kills, Laney Skelton’s nine assists and Lilly Barre’s seven digs.
Buscherfeld added, “Once the kids got going and played more, they realized they could play with this team. They realized their abilities matched up. I’m proud of how they fought and didn’t roll over. There’s a lot of positives to take into our next game.”
Football sometimes is a game of inches. The Tigerhawks just missed on a long touchdown pass from Hostetter to Xavier Woods in the first half and had a near interception on one of Wayne’s first three scoring drives.
Buscherfeld also felt like a touchdown on the long drive in the first half that resulted in no points would have changed the course of the game.
“We are going to see five or six plays where we missed a long touchdown by a few inches,” Buscherfeld said. “I see that as a positive. It means we are doing things right. We just have to execute and believe in ourselves.”
Colfax-Mingo had an 11-7 advantage in first downs and out-gained the Falcons 255-232.
Hostetter finished 10-of-26 through the air for 167 yards. He also rushed for 63 yards and a touchdown.
Sykes grabbed seven passes for 127 yards and Carpenter gained 35 yards on his two passes.
Woods kicked a 35-yard extra point after C-M was penalized after its TD.
Sykes led the defense with seven tackles and his lone punt went for 35 yards. Jace Lewis also had three tackles,
one sack and two tackles for loss.
Brock Nichol tallied six tackles, Carpenter and Camden Cunningham each had five tackles, Hostetter chipped in four tackles and Jashawn Fleming produced three tackles.
Murphy threw for 95 yards and one score and rushed for 58 yards and another score to lead Wayne. Buckingham gained 63 yards and scored one TD on 17 carries and Gibson grabbed four passes for 73 yards and two TDs.
Buckingham led the Falcon defense with nine tackles, Murphy had seven tackles and Gibson secured five tackles, 1.5 sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss.
Baxter senior Perrin Sulzle led the Bolts with seven total touchdowns in the team’s Week 0 win over Springville on Aug. 23. Sulzle threw for one TD, rushed for two and had 10 catches for 132 yards and four touchdowns. He also tallied 5.5 tackles on defense.
Perrin Sulzle
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Baxter junior Danika Flora receives a serve during a match earlier this season. The Bolts lost twice in their season openers at Belle Plaine on Aug. 27.
Jasper County Tribune
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune Colfax-Mingo senior Caden Sykes grabbed seven passes for 127 yards in his Tigerhawk debut on Aug. 30.
