COMMON THREAD OF CIVIL SERVICE
WWII veteran and his Iowa Air National Guard grandson surprised with Quilts of Valor
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Ethan Opfer knew about the surprise in store for his grandfather Lawrence Opfer, a World War II veteran, but he didn’t know there would be a second surprise. He had planned to present a handmade Quilt of Valor to his unsuspecting grandpa to acknowledge his service. Ethan did not expect to receive a quilt of his own.
“I knew about my grandpa getting one and was told about helping present it and everything, and then I kind of looked over and saw them pulling another quilt out of the bag,” Ethan said. “So then I was like, ‘What’s going on?’ Then mom and dad walked on out. I was not expecting that one by any means.”
Draped in fabrics of red, white and blue, their multi-generational service was celebrated with a standing ovation during a Veterans Day ceremony at Colfax-Mingo High School. Lawrence smiled graciously when he was given his quilt, but his smile grew wider when he saw his grandson wearing the same colors.
“Boy I tell you that was wonderful to get that,” Lawrence said. Lawrence served the U.S. Navy Air Corps/U.S. Navy from June 15, 1944 until June 9, 1946. He went to flight training school at Doane College in Crete, Neb. and St. Mary’s College in San Francisco, Calif. As the war was coming to an end, Lawrence decided he would transfer to the Navy.
Jasper County EMA launches new smartphone app
Emergency notifications and other info can be accessed on Jasper Ready
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
Want to know what to expect from the latest severe weather event in Jasper County? Well, now, there’s an app for that.
Jasper County Emergency Management Agency has announced the release of a new, custom smartphone application. According to the press release, the Jasper Ready app will serve as an innovative way for Jasper County EMA to connect with residents and visitors by providing information quickly and efficiently.
Developed by myEMAapp.com, a brand of OCV, LLC, which is a company that specializes in mobile app development for emergency management agencies and public safety organizations across the United States, the Jasper Ready app provides quick access to items of public interest.
In addition to providing the most up-to-date emergency alerts, the app is loaded with preparedness materials for all types of emergency situations, from floods and home fires to chemical emergencies and even nuclear explosions. There is also a county directory and a link to make an anonymous report of a school threat.
Users can also report storm damage and develop their own preparedness plans that includes a checklist of what to bring. There is also a link to submit volunteer applications and current weather forecast information in Jasper County. After downloading
communication,” OCV Partner and CRO Kevin Cummings said. “Mobile apps offer agencies a better way to Jasper Ready The Jasper Ready app is free to download on the App Store and Google Play. The application provides emergency alerts to users and allows them to make their own preparedness plan. There is also an abundance of resources available in the app.
the app, users can decide if they want notifications, too. “Over 80 percent of people in the United States own and use smartphones as their primary means of
Bohannan campaign wants recount, MillerMeeks campaign cries ‘election deniers’
All 20 counties, including Jasper County, would have to recount IA-01 race, which looks to be decided by 802 votes
By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune
The Democratic challenger for Iowa’s 1st Congressional District seat is calling for a recount in all 20 counties, including Jasper County.
Christina Bohannan’s campaign announced on Nov. 14 their intentions to issue a full recount of the congressional district race. The results collected
by the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office currently shows U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, the Republican incumbent, leading by just 802 votes.
In a statement released by Bohannan’s campaign manager, Jindalae Suh, the race was described as “razor-thin.” This is not the first time this congressional district was decided by such close
RECOUNT | 3
‘SNAP, SNAP’
Baxter High School debuting ‘The Addams Family’ musical at 7 p.m. Nov. 22 and 23 at BHS East Gym
Christopher Braunschweig/Jasper County Tribune
From left: Lawrence Opfer and his grandson Ethan Opfer get a standing ovation after receiving their Quilts of Valor simultaneously during a Veterans Day ceremony in Colfax-Mingo Jr./Sr. High School. Lawrence served the U.S. Navy Air Corps/U.S. Navy during World War II, and Ethan served the Iowa Air National Guard.
Obituaries
Sierra Linda Hostetter
Nov. 13, 2024
Sierra Linda Hostetter, age 20, of Colfax, Iowa, passed away on November 13, 2024, in Des Moines, Iowa. A private family gathering will be held at a later date. Memorials in Sierra’s
name may be made out to ChildServe. If you wish to send a card or memorial, please make it out to, “Attn: Sierra Hostetter, Coburn Funeral Home, 24 W Howard St, Colfax, IA 50054.”
The daughter of Steve and Malinda (Oswalt) Hostetter, Sierra was born on April 19, 2004, in Des Moines, Iowa. From the very beginning Sierra defied odds, persevered through many challenges, and embodied true strength. She became the definition of small but mighty. Sierra
Baxter Garden Club
Baxter Federated Garden Club met on November 14, 2024 at the Gowdy Tree Farm.
Eleven members were present.
Program Presentation Laurie and Kevin Gowdy shared the many services they offer at their family owned Christmas Tree Farm located near Melbourne. A thank you donation will be sent to the Gowdy family for hosting our meeting.
Meeting Called to Order by Co-President Beth Simbro. For roll call members shared what their favorite kind of real Christmas tree is.
Secretary Report was given by Secretary Deb Krampe who read the October minutes which were approved as read.
was known for her infectious smile, contagious laugh, and loving spirit. Sierra loved and enjoyed the simple things in life. She loved spending time in the sun, and to those around her she became the sunshine itself, making even the rainiest of days brighter. She set an example to focus on the small joys in everyday life. She brought out the best in those around her. Sierra was a teacher without ever having spoken a word. She taught kindness, compassion, true selflessness, and joy. She
showed the world true goodness and true love. Her family was made better by her.
Those left to carry on Sierra’s memory include her parents; Steve and Malinda (Oswalt) Hostetter, her siblings; Sydni and Shane Hostetter, her grandparents; Linda and Steve Oswalt and Les and Mary Jo Hostetter, as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
“What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” – Helen Keller
Club News
Treasurer Report was given by Treasurer Janet Damman. Janet presented a written report of all expenses and income during October Correspondence/Announcements Beth passed around to members the Penny for Pines certificate we received. Beth also shared the many Christmas events that the Community of Baxter is hosting. Macy made a motion that the club put together a bird theme gift basket for the silent auction. Peggy seconded the motion and all voted in favor of the motion.
Club members are to donate items to go in the basket and take to Beth’s by December 2nd.
Peggy, Laura, and Lynnette showed
Let DMACC culinary students help with Thanksgiving
The Iowa Culinary Institute Baking and Pastry Arts program at DMACC is currently accepting orders for its Fifth Annual Thanksgiving Dinner Roll Fundraiser. Rolls can be pre-ordered by the dozen in either white or whole wheat and will be packaged in a foil pan to make them easy to heat up. The cost is $8 per dozen and order pick-up will be available
pictures of the Christmas tree they decorated for the Jasper County Museum Tree Extravaganza. The public can tour the trees on weekends starting after Thanksgiving.
Old and New Business
Members donated food items to the Baxter Food Pantry. Macy will deliver these items.
Beth thanked all the members that helped with fall clean up of the cemetery and Baxter sign gardens. Members will be cleaning off the main street planters and it was discussed decorating them with greenery. This will depend on pending weather.
Beth asked if anyone had outdoor Christmas decorations they would like to donate to help with the deco -
from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Nov. 27, at both the DMACC Newton Campus in Newton and the DMACC Urban/ Des Moines Campus in downtown Des Moines. You will be asked to specify your preferred pick-up location when placing an order. To place an order, visit baking.dmacc.edu and submit your order no later than noon, Nov. 25.
rating of the Baxter sign. Discussion on whether the Club should do a Tea as a fundraiser this next year will continue to be revisited. It was suggested that the club work a concession stand as a possible fundraiser. Year end reports will be completed and turned in to the FGCI by their due dates.
December’s meeting will be our annual Christmas potluck on the 12th at 6:00pm at Deb Krampe’s house. We will have a short meeting to elect officers, set goals for next year, and discuss program agenda.
Janet served homemade cookies, cider, and hot chocolate while members enjoyed some social time.
Women in Ag coming together to cultivate confidence and harvest happiness
The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Women in Ag Leadership Conference takes place at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames. The twoday event begins Wednesday, Dec. 4 from 11:15 a.m. to 8 p.m. and continues from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5.
This year’s theme, “Breaking Ground, Seeding Success,” reflects the hard work women put into their agricultural careers and the rewards they achieve. The conference focuses on career advancement, leadership development and trending topics in agriculture.
A special feature of the conference this year is the option to take part in a Red Cross First Aid and Life-Threatening Bleeding and Tourniquet Application certification course.
On Wednesday, the popular campus tours will be back. Attendees can choose from one of five tours highlighting everything from a Victorian-era Christmas at the Farm House Museum to Regenerative Agriculture at the Bioeconomy Institute.
As the conference opening speaker, Iowa’s homegrown advocate for women in agriculture, Lexi Marek Beeler, will discuss three actions all women can implement to make an impact.
Intensive workshops feature strong women who are leaders and role models. Mastering mental strength to thrive under pressure, leading effectively on the board,
and managing land and sharing a vision for the farm are key skills they’ll help attendees build. The day ends with a relaxed dinner, networking and a social hour.
On Thursday, the conference will feature keynote speaker Heather Malenshek of Land O’ Lakes Inc. Forbes named Malenshek as one of the country’s most influential chief marketing officers. She has a passion for helping others achieve their true potential.
The 2024 Women Impacting Ag honorees Chris Cornelius, Julie Kenney, Wendy Johnson and Janette Smith will share their stories. The luncheon panel will feature Angie Treptow and Karen Rawson, leaders in finance and lending, who will share their stories and discuss the farm economy.
The breakout sessions offer topics such as agricultural entrepreneurship, family business transitions, better conversations, the emotional connection of marketing, leading as communicators and growing into farm management roles.
The capstone speaker is April Hemmes. Her passion for agriculture is at the core of who she is. Throughout her 40-year career in farming, she has taken on leadership roles from supporting the local FFA chapter to becoming a director on the United Soybean Board.
Early bird registration is available through Nov. 22 and saves $20. Regular registration is $140 for adults and $80 for students. Scholarships may be requested. Register on-
line at www.regcytes.extension.iastate.edu/womeninag. Farm Credit Services of America is a major sponsor. The ISU Extension and Outreach Women in Ag Program improves the quality of life in Iowa by providing research-based educational programs to expand agricultural enterprise, improve natural resource management and support the community of women in agriculture. Visit www.extension.iastate.edu/womeninag to learn more about our programs.
In observance of Thanksgiving, the ad deadline for the following papers have changed.
Nov. 29th Newton News: Ad deadline is Mon., Nov. 25 at 5pm. Dec. 2nd Newton News & Dec. 5 Jasper County Tribune
As soon as he was on a ship, he was asked to be the ship engine mechanic on a landing craft infantry (LCI) transport ship. Lawrence’s ship was headed through the Panama Canal when the war ended, so he was directed to a port in Charleston, S.C., to decommission the ship. From there, he went back home.
Civil service runs in the family. In addition to Ethan’s service in the National Guard, all four of Lawrence’s brothers served in the military. Larry Opfer, Lawrence’s son, said all five boys were enlisted in World War II and returned home safely to their sister and widowed mother.
By the time Ethan separated from the Iowa Air National Guard, he had been promoted to staff sergeant and worked his way through the ranks in the intelligence units. He served from 2017 until 2023.
App
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alert, inform and prepare the public. Apps allow public safety agencies the ability to reach and serve their citizens where they are: their smartphones.”
Jasper Ready is available for download for free in the App Store and Google Play by searching “Jasper Ready” in the
City of Colfax Colfax residents are reminded the City’s snow ordinance is in effect November 1 through March 31.
To receive a Quilt of Valor at his alma mater alongside his grandpa is a memory he will cherish.
“That is a once in a lifetime experience for many, many people that share military service with their family,” Ethan
search bar.
Jasper County EMA Executive Director Jamey Robinson said the app revolutionizes emergency management by providing real-time alerts, community notifications and critical resources. It’s a one-stop tool for staying informed, making quick decisions and accessing lifesaving information during emergencies.
“We aim to create safer, more resilient communities by improving communication, boosting preparedness and enhancing response efficiency — ultimately saving lives” Robinson said.
said. “I think in all the years I’ve attended these veterans assemblies, this is the first time I can remember there being multiple generations in the same assembly. That’s going to stick with me for a long time.”
Surrounded by fellow veter-
Recount
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margins. In 2020, the race between Miller-Meeks and Democrat Rita Hart went in the Republican’s favor by six votes.
“Over the past week, Iowa election officials have worked tirelessly to count and record hundreds of thousands of ballots in Iowa’s 1st congressional district race, resulting in a razor-thin margin,” Suh said. “As Rep. Miller-Meeks has acknowledged, a recount is to beexpectedinthisverycloserace.
“To be absolutely certain that every voter is heard, the Bohannan campaign will request a recount in all 20 counties across the
ans of all ages and his 98-yearold grandfather, Ethan hopes the message of service resonates with civilians on Veterans Day.
“I want people to take the time and realize that as divided as our country is right now ser-
district,aspermittedbyIowalaw. We have full trust in this process andwillaccepttheresultsregardless of the outcome.
“All Iowans should feel confident that at the conclusion of this transparent, precinct-level recount process, every lawful vote will be counted and reported accurately.”
In response, the Miller-Meeks campaign went on the offensive and issued statements attacking Bohannan, calling her a “failed congressional candidate.”
Alan Ostergren, Miller-Meeks’ counsel, said, “This is one more attempt by the DC Democrats to thwart or delay the will of Iowa voters. This margin of victory is insurmountable. Bohannan is just needlessly costing taxpayers money.”
Miller-Meeks’s campaign said in a statement, “Just as Democrats are trying to steal a Senate seat in Pennsylvania, Bohannan and the Democrats remain election deniers in this race as well. This is a delaying
vice is something that affects everybody. It’s something that everybody can do,” he said. “It doesn’t matter if it’s military, police or teaching the youth of our nation. It’s something everybody can get behind and unify behind.”
Ann Leonard made the Quilts of Valor, and it had always been her dream to present a pair of them to family members. Larry is Leonard’s banker, and when she learned his father served in World War II she asked if he had received a Quilt of Valor before. He had not. Leonard said she felt a calling to make the quilt. In the course of their conversation, Larry mentioned his son also served.
“I’ve always wanted to have a grandfather and grandchild get recognized,” Leonard said. “I’ve probably made 10 to 15 quilts. I’ve seen the older generations receive their quilts and appreciate them, and I think it would be an impactful experience for younger generations to have that. It was a dream of mine. It came true today.”
tactic to thwart the will of the people.
“A recount won’t meaningfully change the outcome of this race as the congresswoman’s lead is mathematically impossible to overcome. Mariannette was humbled to win the support of the majority of voters and we remain confident Mariannette Miller-Meeks has been re-elected to a third term.”
Iowa House Rep. Jon Dunwell, who represents Jasper County in the Iowa Legislature, said in a tweet that it is time for Bohannan to concede. “Virtually no chance she can overcome the margin to change the outcome,” Dunwell said. “Miller-Meeks is the winner.”
Jasper County Auditor Jenna Jennings said attorneys from both sides are still trying to work through all the paperwork and put together a recount board. As of Nov. 14, Jennings has reached out to both campaigns. Her plan is to start the recount by 9 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 18.
Depending on how fast a recount board is formed, there could be delays in when the recount process can begin for all 20 counties.
Christopher Braunschweig/Jasper County Tribune
Ethan Opfer and Larry Opfer show off the quilt made by Ann Leonard for World War II veteran Lawrence Opfer, who received his quilt during a Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11 in Colfax-Mingo Jr./Sr. High School in Colfax.
years clean and sober!
A year ago at this time (34 years clean and sober) I had no idea I’d be where I am today. I just had my third infusion of an immunotherapy drug, Keytruda, for cancer of the lymph nodes, called Merkel Cell Carcinoma (very rare). I feel pretty good and am hoping there will not be side effects from this third infusion, like there was with the first. I was pretty sick for about three weeks after the first infusion, hardly any at all following the second. However, I am bummed to find out that, even though I may be cancer free now, I will still have to continue the infusions for one year. Criminy! It’s an infusion confusion! All-in-all, the cancer I have (Stage III) is hardly anything compared to the bad cancers, like pancreatic, bone, brain, etc. While in the oncology and infusion departments at the University of Iowa Hospital, Ginnie and I saw some really sick people: they were skin and bones with no hair. I’m in pretty good shape so far, don’t have any
Curt Swarm Empty Nest
hair to lose, and hopefully we’ve caught the cancer before it spreads. I think we have. Thanks to all your prayers and some fantastic doctors at the U of I, I do believe this cancer is whipped. We’ll see. It’s much healthier to be optimistic than pessimistic. A nice treat while I was getting my second infusion was that some University of Iowa football players came through and visited with patients. (BTW: my little infusion only takes 15 minutes. Others I know can take like five hours.) I wasn’t feeling too well, and this friendly football player came in to talk with us. My spirits were immediately lifted, like a hot-air balloon rising. He was really nice and I managed to have a nurse snap a picture of us. I didn’t know who he was, his name tag only said “Sebastian.” Anywho, when I was watching the Iowa-Northwestern game that Saturday, Iowa’s
Women’s reaction to Trump’s victory
By Steve Corbin
WPart1ofa3-partseries
The results from Nov. 5’s presidential election revealed Donald Trump received about 3.5 million more votes than Kamala Harris and he captured over 300 electoral college votes to become America’s 47th president. As compared to Donald Trump’s 2016 and 2020 bid for president, the votes secured revealed an improvement in virtually all demographic categories, including that of women.
On Wed., Nov. 6, I reached out to women across America — from both political parties — and asked for their reaction, in two sentences or less, to the election results. Thirty-six women, from 24 states, replied to my inquiry. The response was so large that this column boomeranged from an intended singular op-ed to a 3-part series. Why? Most newspapers do not want op-eds to exceed 800 net words. Each op-ed of this threepart series will be approximately 725 net words.
Speaking of words, according to F. Willis Johnson, United Methodist pastor and freelance writer for The Fulcrum, words paint vivid pictures for reason and discourse, sometimes to unite or divide, and sometimes to inspire or inflame.
Johnson feels the words used by Harris in her campaign painted a picture of the nation reaching for its highest ideals and to “push forward even when the path ahead proved challenging.” He reasoned Trump’s discourse conjured “a world of grievance, division and nostalgia for a bygone era. Harris’ words were inclusive, Trump’s are exclusive” (The Fulcrum, Nov. 7).
You may disagree with Johnson’s assessment, but words have different meanings to different people. As you read the words expressed by 36 women featured in this 3-part series, try your level best to comprehend the feelings women are conveying as many historians have repeatedly said women have been the soul of America since our founding moment; for the long-term betterment of our nation we must listen to their words and personal story.
“I wonder if this is what it felt like in Germany in 1932. I wonder if anyone saw what was coming and why so many people in the United States do not.” — Anne
“Apparently there are women who still want to set the table rather than be at the table. Disappointing.” — Helen
“As a professional woman, I worked for years to overcome the glass ceiling and harassment just to have a president elected who has set me back 48 years based on his actions towards women. I also have a transgender niece and a gay niece who are being told that they don’t have the same rights as I do based on the Republican platform.” — Jen
“Oh, I could write a symphony on Trump’s blatant misogyny.” - Amy
“I am sickened by the voters who find it acceptable for women to die of sepsis or hemorrhage in a hospital parking lot, because the allure of saving a few bucks on their grocery bill is their more compelling priority. I find the lack of intelligence and critical thinking skills among American voters to be astounding.” — Jennifer
“I was absolutely shocked that an intelligent, competent, joy filled woman with extensive accomplishments lost to a man who is a liar, assaults women and is a felon on 34 counts. My next thought was fear for the future of my children, grand and great grandchildren.” — Irene
“The hardest thing for me to accept about the results of the election is that — hateful, hurtful false rhetoric, racism, misogyny, homophobia (need I go on) — is what my fellow Americans want. We know exactly what Trump is, and we endorsed it.”
— Nita
“What do I have to say — I say my soul is crushed. I believe we have set in motion a vicious new world order of dangerous destruction, hate and greed.” — Maggie
“Why in the hell do men get to control our (female) reproductive rights? It’s not a political issue because it’s a woman’s right to have control of her own body.” — Jane
“Helpless . . . hopeless . . . hidden . . . in this antiquated America of malignant masculinity.” — Devon
“I’ve always taught my children and students that `character matters.’ Heartbroken for the America I’d hoped to leave future generations.” — Jane
What are your thoughts about this sample of 11 women’s feelings about the election outcome?
Next up: Part two of this 3-part op-ed series will reveal what 12 additional women from across America are thinking about the election outcome. The sentiment of 13 women will be published in the third op-ed. Contact Steve Corbin at Steven.B.Corbin@gmail.com
Homecoming, there he was, number 29, Sebastian Castro, star safety on the U of I football team. Far out.
While I was so sick after that first infusion, I saw something in the mail that looked like a solicitation. It was from a group called Help to Others that I had never heard of. I didn’t pay any attention to it, but Ginnie did. She opened it and there was a get-well note along with a HyVee gift card. Wow! That was just so nice: a group of anonymous people reaching out to help. That really humbled us and let us know that there were people out there who cared. Thank you. We will definitely be sending Help to Others (HO) a contribution.
Speaking of Ginnie. She takes really good care of me. I’m so fortunate. We had a little scare with her possibly having cancer, but it proved benign. She may have surgery coming up early next year. I owe her a lot of care. I can fix a lot of Mac-and-Cheese.
About aronia berries. As you may remember, when I was first diagnosed with neuro endocrine carcinoma on my forehead, Ginnie and I started drinking
aronia juice daily. By the time we had an appointment at the U of I Clinic, the cancer on my forehead had cleared up. However, trace amounts of cancer were detected in my lymph nodes, which necessitated the immunotherapy infusions. I feel the aronia juice definitely helped clear up the cancer, kept it at Stage III, and reduced its spread. If you want more information about aronia berries and where to find them, go the website www.linngrovearonia.com. So, 35 years clean and sober. It’s hard to believe that 35 years ago I almost died of alcoholism. Yup. Today, at 76, I have a family who loves me and a lot to look forward to—a cancer free life and/or Paradise for Eternity. I wasn’t sure if I was going to teach my creative writing class this winter, but I think I’ll be up for it. I get so much benefit from watching those eager beavers write and improve and publish.
To the men out there: get a cancer policy. Virtually every male will eventually have prostate cancer. And with Iowa being the second highest state for cancer rate, per capita, it’s a no-brainer. ContactCurtSwarmatcurtswarm@ yahoo.com
Iowa’s Taxpayer Relief Fund
It is a tale as old as time. Democrats and their friends in the media attacking Iowa Republicans during an election campaign for lowering income tax rates on working Iowans. As part of this sad tale, they always claim that cutting taxes will leave the state’s budget short on money in future years. Their story comes with an example of where similar actions went wrong –Kansas. But these chicken little claims always fail to include one big difference between what Iowa is doing and Kansas did –Iowa’s Taxpayer Relief Fund.
Just what is the Taxpayer Relief Fund? It is an account in the State Treasury that holds unanticipated state revenue to be returned to the taxpayers. For funds to be deposited in the Taxpayer Relief Fund, actual state revenue has to exceed what had been projected for state tax collections by the three-member Revenue Estimating Conference (REC). The difference between what was collected in tax revenue and what the REC had pro -
State House
State Rep. Jon Dunwell
jected is deposited into the account once the fiscal year’s books have been closed. When the Fund was created in 2011, the account was originally called the Taxpayer Trust Fund. The maximum amount that could be deposited per year was limited to no more than $60 million. If there were funds deposited into the account, they would be returned to taxpayers through a special income tax credit on Iowans’ state income tax return.
As part of the 2018 state tax reform law, the Taxpayer Trust Fund was changed to the Taxpayer Relief Fund. The limit on the amount of funds that could be deposited into the account was stripped from the law, as was the automatic return of the funds via the personal income tax credit. Instead, the Fund
would be dedicated to tax relief which would be determined by the Legislature.
So how does the Taxpayer Relief Fund work? Let’s use the final numbers for Fiscal Year 2024. When the Legislature passed the FY 22 budget in May 2023, the revenue forecast called for the state to collect $9.6265 billion in tax revenue. When the books were closed on Fiscal Year 2024, actual state revenue amounted to $9.7558 billion. The difference between the two figures is $129.3 million, which is the amount deposited into the Taxpayer Relief Fund. Thanks to strong, sustained revenue growth over the last five years, the Taxpayer Relief Fund has grown significantly. The Fund now holds $3.9422 billion in its account. Thanks to forward thinking and learning the lessons of Kansas, Iowa is in a solid financial position as implementation of the income tax reductions continues to phase in over the next few years.
The Founders who wrote our Constitution recognized, in their Federalist Papers explaining the document and the reasoning and compromises establishing it, that societal factions have existed since the start of mankind and the development of societies. We each have different life experiences, different contexts within which these occur, different demographics, and a variety of additional factors that all contribute to our priorities and positions on issues. These vary within our local community as well as expanded areas such as our county, our state and our
country – also between countries in the entire world. Having an understanding of the facts involved in defining each of these situations, and how these are being processed to determine position on issues, is very important for effective communications, negotiations on policies, and relationships that are not negative. We need to see others as people, just as we each are, and treat others as we want to be treated. This does not mean agreeing on everything. History has shown this is not going to happen. Simply repeating a falsehood and/or prejudice adds to the problem rather than addressing it effectively.
Having the ability to research actual facts (not relying on some undocumented social media post or podcast) provides supported perspectives and positions as a good starting point. Using higher-level thinking and problem-solving skills to process this information can help in better understanding the individual reasoning. Stemming from this can be an effectively negotiated compromise on issues that need to be addressed – without ignoring the needs of some factions (thus denigrating them in their eyes and creating more animosity). We are each individuals whose lives are based on multiple factors that influence our priorities and positions. Our Founders said we have a right to be heard and our positions considered. Sue Atkinson Baxter
Baxter’s Russell wins diving state championship
By Troy Hyde Sports Editor
MARSHALLTOWN — With around a five-point deficit heading into the final dive of the night, Baxter junior Camryn Russell needed a big score to rally her back to the front.
Instead of attempting a dive with a low difficulty score, Russell pulled off an impressive final leap when the most difficult dive in her lineup resulted in 53.3 points.
That was enough to move her back into the lead and Iowa City West’s Kamila Swanson couldn’t quite do enough in her final attempt.
Russell won her first 1-meter diving state championship with a score of 488.25. Swanson was the runner-up with a 486.9. Swanson needed a score of 48.66 to win the championship but came up 1.35 points shy at the Iowa High School Girls State Diving Championships on Nov. 15 at the Marshalltown YMCA in Marshalltown.
“I knew I had to go after it and not hold back,” Russell said about her final attempt. “I had been hitting it in practice and doing well with it lately. I just tried to do what I do in practice and if I did that it would work out.”
It was only the third time Russell attempted that final dive in competition this season. She opened the season with it and struggled with the twist. But brought it back out at regionals and needed it to win the title against Swanson.
Russell’s final dive had a 2.6 degree of difficulty, while Swanson’s last attempt was a 1.7.
“I like to save harder ones for the last three rounds because I know my girls are good enough to handle that,” Grinnell/BGM/ Baxter diving coach Deidre Freeman Huff said. “It gives them a little confidence going into those final dives.
“There was a lot of pressure on Camryn in that spot. She did a great job coming back and finishing strong.”
Russell was in third after the first round of dives. A score of 48.4 on her second attempt moved her into second. She followed that with a 49.5 and then went in front with a 54 and a 50 to complete the first cutoff.
The top 20 scores after five dives moved on and they cut
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 month - WIC appointments
IRA UNITED CHURCH
Rev. Michael Omundson
the field of 32 down to 16 after eight dives. The top six finishers earned a spot on the podium.
Russell led by 15 points after six dives but only held an advantage of 4.35 after seven attempts.
The lead grew slightly after eight attempts, but she moved to second following scores of 43.7 and 40.8.
That’s when she needed a big finale to give herself a chance. The only time Russell checked the scoreboard throughout the night was after Swanson scored a 54 to take the lead on her ninth dive.
“It was nerve wracking,”
Russell said. “I tried not to get too stressed out. I knew what dives she had left. I was thinking about what she did in warmups and what she hadn’t done in the meet yet. I knew based on degree of difficulty that I would have a chance.”
Swanson led by 5.45 points with two dives to go. Russell’s 40.8 on her 10th attempt closed the gap slightly.
Then Russell took advantage of her high degree of difficulty dive to move back into the lead early in Round 11. Freeman Huff said Russell posted a score in the 50s with the dive at regionals, too.
“I just like having a good last dive so it can help me get some points at the end,” Russell said. “It’s a hard dive, but it’s still a solid one. It could be a strong ending.”
Russell’s first three seasons as a diver for the Grinnell/BGM/ Baxter squad has produced a title, fifth-place finish and seventh-place finish.
Southeast Polk’s Holli Hetzer finished third with a score of 449.75. Kate Hauser of Marshalltown took fourth with a 417.95 and Campbell Dopler of Bettendorf came in fifth with a 405.95.
Grinnell/BGM/Baxter’s Norah Nicol finished one spot off the podium in seventh. That’s a place Russell was familiar with after her freshman season.
Swanson, who recently committed to the University of Iowa diving team, finished third last year and 23rd as a sophomore.
It was second state diving champion at Grinnell/BGM/ Baxter in the past three seasons.
“I guess I got lucky with the talent that came in and wanted
to dive,” said Freeman Huff, who dove collegiately at Iowa and was part of the United States national team from 2012-2015.
Grinnell is not the biggest of cities in Iowa, but Baxter is
by far the smallest town with a state diver on it this season.
Of the 30 qualifiers who are not on the Grinnell/BGM/Baxter diving team, 28 of them are part of programs from much
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, Nov. 24, Baptism Sunday - 9 a.m. Fellowship; 9:15 a.m. Bible Education Classes; 10:25 a.m. Message by Pastor Cody Dyer; 5 p.m. “The Well” Youth Group
TUESDAY, Nov. 26 - 3 p.m. Women’s Prayer and Coffee (Note time change)
WEDNESDAY, Nov. 27 - 9 a.m.
The church schedule is brought to you by
Busy Bee Quilters and Fresh Encounter Prayer; NO AWANA, Thanksgiving Break
SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH Newton, Iowa
SATURDAY - 4 p.m. Mass
SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Mass
COLFAX FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
S. Locust & W. Division St. Office - 674-3782
Rev. Phil Dicks pastor
SUNDAY - 10:30 a.m. Sunday School, Family Worship
HOPE ASSEMBLY OF GOD
126 E. Howard
Rev. Paul Avery, pastor Church: 674-3700
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 SUNDAY - 9:15 a.m. Sunday School; 10 a.m. Worship; 6 p.m. Awanas
WEDNESDAYS - 1st & 3rd - 6:30 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
larger
CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 218 S.
communities. Algona is smaller than Grinnell and Hauser attends West Marshall but dives for Marshalltown.
Photo by Gary Hanson
Baxter junior Camryn Russell attempts one of her 11 dives at the state meet on Nov. 15 in Marshalltown. Russell won her first 1-meter dive title with a huge score on her final attempt.
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Baxter junior Camryn Russell won the 1-meter diving state championship on Nov. 15 at the Marshalltown YMCA. She won the title with a 53.3 score on her final attempt.
Eight Bolts earn all-district football honors
The Baxter football team led Class 8-man District 9 with 2,371 offensive yards this past season. The Bolts also ranked third in the district with 29 touchdowns.
Headlining the roster was senior Perrin Sulzle, who led the league in five statistical categories.
Sulzle was one of three Bolts named to the all-district first team recently. He was a first teamer in the utility spot, while senior Carter Smith and junior Eli Dee earned first-team honors at offensive line and wide receiver, respectively.
Senior Cainan Travis and juniors Cael Wishman and Stadan Vansice were second-team selections and seniors Cade Robinson and Grant Anderegg were the honorable mention choices.
All-district recognition is based on statistics inside district play only. The Bolts finished 2-4 in district games.
Sulzle led 8-man District 9 with 773 passing yards, 1,718 offensive yards and 73 completions and tied for the district lead with 22 total touchdowns and 12 passing touchdowns.
Sulzle started the season as the team’s tight end. He caught 14 passes for 115 yards and one TD in district play, ranked second in the league with 830 rushing yards and finished fourth with nine rushing TDs. He only threw four interceptions.
Dee led the Bolts and the district with 31 catches, 338 receiving yards and seven receiving TDs. His 12 total touchdowns
ranked tied for fifth and his 653 offensive yards ranked 10th.
Smith and Anderegg earned all-district honors on the offensive line after helping the Bolts lead the district with 1,093 passing yards.
Baxter also ranked third in the league with 1,278 rushing yards, 28 total TDs and a 6.0 yards per carry average.
Vansice claimed second team recognition at wide receiver after ranking third in the district with 20 catches.
He also ranked sixth with 210 receiving yards and tied for fourth with four receiving touchdowns.
Wishman and Travis both grabbed honors on the defensive side of the ball. Travis led the Bolts and tied for sixth in the district with 43 tackles.
Wishman ranked 10th in tackles with 40. His five sacks led the league and his 12.5 tackles for loss were second. Wishman also tied for the district lead with two fumble recoveries.
Robinson rushed for 203 yards on 45 carries. He ranked second in the district with 26 catches and his 258 receiving yards ranked third. Robinson added two TD receptions.
Thirteen Bolts also earned academic all-district recognition.
That group included Smith, Sulzle, Travis, Anderegg, Vansice, Robinson, Dee, seniors James Esqueda and Skyler Stoll, juniors Aiden Chugg and Cody Spurgeon and sophomores Cole Frasher and Coy Mergen.
The all-academic team features sophomores, juniors and
seniors who post a grade point average of 3.25 or better.
Class 8-Man District 9
Final Standings
Team District Overall
Audubon 6-0 10-1
FD St. Edmond 5-1 5-4
Collins-Maxwell 3-3 5-4
Colo-NESCO 2-4 5-4
Baxter 2-4 3-5
Glidden-Ralston 2-4 3-5
CRB 1-5 1-7
Most Valuable Player
Aaron Olsen, sr., Audubon. Offensive Player of the Year Colby Wallace, sr., Glidden-Ralston. Defensive Player of the Year
Austin Christensen, jr., Audubon. Lineman of the Year
Adam Walker, sr., Fort Dodge St. Edmond First Team Offense
Quarterback: Colby Wallace, sr., Glidden-Ralston.
Running Back: Aaron Olsen, sr., Audubon; Josef Dvorak, sr., Collins-Maxwell.
Wide Receiver/Tight End: Eli Dee, jr., Baxter; Grant Galles, jr., Fort Dodge St. Edmond.
Offensive Line: Carter Smith, sr., Baxter; Colton Hansen, sr., Audubon; Quintin Jaeschke, sr., Fort Dodge St. Edmond.
Kicker: Koleman Hanson, jr., Fort Dodge St. Edmond. Utility : Perrin Sulzle, sr., Baxter.
Defense
Defensive Line: Adam Walker, sr., Fort Dodge St. Edmond; Tyler Mohr, sr., Coon Rapids-Bayard; Ely Jorgensen, sr., Audubon. Linebacker: Austin Christensen, jr., Audubon; Dominic McClain; sr., Fort Dodge St. Edmond; Wyatt Oswald, sr., Coon Rapids-Bayard. Defensive Back: Adam Obrecht, sr., Audubon; Alex Daniel, jr., Glidden-Ralston. Punter: Breckin Clatt, sr., Colo-NESCO.
Four Tigerhawks score all-SICL volleyball honors
Colfax-Mingo senior Trinity Smith was second in the South Iowa Cedar League in both kills and digs this past season.
Sophomore Katelyn Steenhoek was second in assists, junior Britney Keeney ranked fourth in blocks and senior Kaylee Collins was top 10 in digs.
All four Tigerhawks were selected to the all-conference volleyball team for their efforts.
Smith earned first-team honors, while Steenhoek was a second-teamer. Keeney and Collins were the honorable mention selections.
All-conference recognition is based on statistics inside conference play only.
The Tigerhawks finished 4-4 in SICL matches.
Smith ranked second in the SICL with 160 kills and 160 digs. She also was fifth with 21 aces and finished with nine assists and nine blocks. Her serve percentage was 86.1 and her kill efficiency was .123.
Steenhoek’s 247 assists ranked second in the SICL and she added 16 kills, five blocks, 78 digs and 13 aces. Her serve percentage was 87.3.
Keeney’s 23 blocks ranked fourth in the conference and her 18 aces tied for 10th.
She also contributed three assists, 64 kills and 29 digs and her serve percentage was 88.1. Keeney’s kill efficiency was .140.
Collins, the Tigerhawks’ libero,
finished with 132 digs, which ranked ninth in the conference. She added 16 assists, two kills and 13 aces.
Collins finished 103-of-105 in serves, and the 98.1 percent ranked third in the SICL. South
Coach of the Year
Grace Ceresa, North Mahaska
Golden Award
Tatum Huyser, jr., L-S; Karagyn Minnaert, sr., BGM.
All-Conference
First Team
Setter: Kayla Readshaw, sr., North Mahaska; Erilea Kupka, fr., HLV; Taylor Rozenboom, sr., Sigourney. Libero: Dani Aller, sr., Sigourney
Players: Trinity Smith, sr., C-M; Regan Grewe, sr., North Mahaska; Ema Roberts, sr., HLV; Kayleah Laughlin, sr., Belle Plaine; Josephine Moore, sr., Sigourney; Nataliya Linder, so., North Mahaska; Lydia Kriegel, sr., Iowa Valley; Sydnee Burgess, so., Montezuma. Second Team
Setter: Izzy Kriegel, sr., Iowa Valley. Libero: Kimberly Clarahan, sr., Keota. Players: Katelyn Steenhoek, so., C-M; Sydney Andersen, sr., North Mahaska; Lily Randall, sr., HLV; Reagan Clarahan, sr., Sigourney; Ava Gehrking, so., English Valleys; Allison Hoover, fr., Belle Plaine; Kylee Larmore, sr., Montezuma; Shaye Strong, jr., BGM. Honorable Mention Britney Keeney, jr., C-M; Kaylee Collins, sr., C-M; Alaina Roberts, sr., L-S; Jakeira Hay, sr., L-S; Denisyn Adams, sr., Belle Plaine; Layne McLeod, sr., Belle Plaine; Emy Minnaert, fr., BGM; Ana Coleman, so., BGM; Kennedy Jackson, jr., Keota; Lauryn Larmore, fr., Montezuma; Chloe Snook, jr., Montezuma; Hadyn Bender, so., English Valleys; Olivia Debevec, fr., English Valleys; Raegan Molyneux, sr., HLV; Ayla Hall, sr., HLV; Clara Fry, jr., Iowa Valley; Maeci Marshall, so., Iowa Valley; Breckyn Schilling, sr., North Mahaska; Abby Van Weelden, jr., North Mahaska; McKinly Chittick, sr., Sigourney; Bailey Greater, so., Sigourney.
Russell is probably the only one though who has to drive 45 minutes just to attend practice every day.
“I think competing against everyone in the state is cool because I’m first out of everybody,” Russell said. “But I also know that I put a lot of time into this between driving, practice and meets. It’s nice that it actually paid off.”
Freeman Huff is a Grinnell alum herself.
Returner: Cooper Wierson, jr., Collins-Maxwell.
Utility : Jakob Koopman, jr., Fort Dodge St. Edmond.
Second Team
Offense
Quarterback: Ethan Swisher, jr., Fort Dodge St. Edmond.
Running Back: Aaron Hindt, so., Fort Dodge St. Edmond; Caden Oswald, so., Coon Rapids-Bayard.
Wide Receiver/Tight End: Stadan Vansice, jr., Baxter; Brody Weber, jr., Audubon. Offensive Line: Max Webster, jr., Fort Dodge St. Edmond; Preston Voelker, jr., Colo-NESCO; Gavin Carnine, sr., Collins-Maxwell. Kicker: Landon Gjerde, jr., Colo-NESCO.
Utility : Carson Wessel, jr., Audubon.
Defense
Defensive Line: Cael Wishman, jr., Baxter; Waylon Hein, sr., Glidden-Ralston; Dalton Martin, jr., Collins-Maxwell. Linebacker: Cainan Travis, sr., Baxter; Klay Baker, sr., Fort Dodge St. Edmond; Austin Boege, jr., Collins-Maxwell.
Defensive Back: Jack Stanerson, sr., Audubon; Mark Bower, sr., Colo-NESCO.
Utility : Lucas Christian, sr., Glidden-Ralston; Reed Oswalt, jr., Collins-Maxwell.
Honorable Mention Cade Robinson, sr., Baxter; Grant Anderegg, sr., Baxter; Gabe Jensen, sr., Audubon; Logan Stetzel, sr., Audubon; Lucas Robinson, sr., Collins-Maxwell; Nate Smith, sr., Collins-Maxwell; Jack Angell, jr., Colo-NESCO; Hunter Hardin, sr., Colo-NESCO; Eli McAlister, fr., Coon Rapids-Bayard; Ethan Bauer, jr., Coon Rapids-Bayard; Collin Sturm, sr., Glidden-Ralston; Landon Rohrbeck, jr., Glidden-Ralston; Sam Myer, sr., Fort Dodge St. Edmond.
Kaylee Collins
Colfax-Mingo senior Kaylee Collins led the Tigerhawk volleyball team with a serve percentage of 96.0. She was 192-of-200 in serves with 23 aces. Collins ranked second on the squad with 211 digs and added 33 assists and five kills as the team’s libero.
She knows what it’s like to dive for a smaller program in Iowa. That’s one of the reasons she wanted to return to her hometown to coach a sport she was very successful in.
“It’s amazing for Camryn,” Freeman Huff said.
“I grew up in Grinnell and she’s part of a smaller community than that. It was amazing for me to have that experience myself. That’s why I came back to Grinnell. I want them to know they also can do this despite not having more access to pools, diving boards and even coaching to an extent.” Russell is unsure about her future at this point.
She’s also a standout hurdler for the Baxter Bolts. If she does want a future in diving, Freeman Huff expects her to have plenty of options.
“Her future is up to her. If she wants to do both track and diving, an NCAA Division 3 school would probably allow her to do that,” Freeman Huff said. “But she can definitely dive at a bigger school like Iowa if she chooses to.”
Notes: Russell entered the state meet following a score of 430.6 at regionals. Swanson scored a 494.2 at regionals, while Hetzer posted a regional score of 491.1. Russell (520.25) did have the highest 11dive score of the season though.
Sulzle Dee Smith Vansice
Wishman Travis
Jasper County Tribune
Anderegg Robinson
Jasper County Tribune Collins Smith Keeney
Steenhoek
Troy Hyde/Jasper County Tribune
Camryn Russell won
