Bands united
The PCM High School and Middle School Bands come together for performance at final home football game
Republicans lose the bells and whistles and get serious at trapshoot
Fundraiser emphasizes the tight races between Dunwell, Trump, Miller-Meeks
By Christopher Braunschweig PCM Explorer
The Jasper County GOP Trapshoot was uncharacteristically restrained this year apart from the fiery speeches from guests like U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, who fought back against new ads from her opponent, and former acting U.S. Attorney General Matt Whittaker, who lobbied for another Trump presidency.
Sure, folks fired off rounds of trap and skeet, and many seemed to be having a good time doing it in between chats with candidates or their representatives. But the energy was surprisingly low for an event that has attracted nearly every major Republican candidate and helped ramp up enthusiasm amongst the ranks.
In the past, guests like a “fired up” Gary Leffler took an extreme approach. Leffler, who ran an un-
successful primary for Iowa’s 3rd Congressional District seat two years ago but is most famously known for his American Flag-decorated tractor, featured signs and enlarged dollar bills demonizing Democrats.
The trapshoot has hosted Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds and former Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg, U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst, Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, numerous state-
house legislators and council members and supervisors, presidential candidates and even a former contestant on “The Apprentice.”
Still, even without special guests the trapshoot has always managed to gather Republicans in one space for an exciting start to the day.
Perhaps it was the change in
SHUT DOWN
Speed cameras use denied in Prairie City by IDOT
By Jamee A. Pierson PCM Explorer
An often controversial piece of equipment in Prairie City is no longer allowed to be used. In a letter from the Iowa Department of Transportation on Sept. 30, the city’s permit application to continue using speed cameras was denied after speed camera use was legislated in House File 2681 earlier this year.
“We are disappointed by the DOT’s decision,” Prairie City Mayor Chad Alleger said. “From our understanding of how the bill was written, we should have been approved”.
In the denial letter, systems operations division director Dave Lorenzen said the three fixed cameras located on Highway 163 and South State Street across from Prairie City Elementary were deemed “not necessary.” The city was instructed to “cease using all systems at those locations until the city obtains a permit to operate” them from the IDOT.
“The city may choose to reapply for a permit at a later date,” Lorenzen said.
“However, since the city is not being issued a permit at this time, the earlier the
IDOT could issue a permit for any new location or for previously denied location is July 1, 2026.” According to House Fire 2681, section 321P, the IDOT may approve or disapprove the application for a permit based on the department’s determination that a system is appropriate and necessary and the least restrictive means to address the critical traffic safety issues at a location. For existing systems, an application had to be submitted with a list of system locations, justification for placement of the systems and use of the systems. That is the application that was denied by the IDOT causing the city to cease using the speed cameras as of Oct. 1.
“The use of this system had greatly reduced the number of speeding vehicles coming through the area by the school and on the highway which has made the roadways safer to all using them,” Prairie City Police Chief Kevin Gott said. “While the total volume of traffic has remained basically the same, the number of vehicles traveling greater than 10 miles over the limit has
County removes all but one temporary stop sign after Hwy 14 reconstruction
Engineer says sign need at S. 96th Ave. W. and W. 16th St. S. intersection
By Christopher Braunschweig
Construction of Highway 14 between Monroe and Newton has concluded, which means several of the temporary stop signs placed at various interactions around the Monroe and Reasnor areas have been removed. However, the county engineer Michael Frietsch felt it was best to keep one set of signs permanent. As a result, the Jasper County Board of Supervisors on Sept. 24 approved a resolution adding a stop sign on the eastbound South 96th Avenue West at the intersection of West 16th Street South. Frietsch said there are sight distance issues and warrants a stop control at the T-intersection.
Stop signs have since been removed from the following intersections:
• Rosebud Avenue and South 112th
Avenue West
• West 24th Street South and South 104th Avenue West
• West 16th Street South and South 104th Avenue West
• West Eighth Street South and Rodeo Avenue West
• West Eighth Street South and South 112th Avenue West
• West Eighth Street South and South 104th Avenue West
• South 104th Avenue West and Rifle Street
Back in April, Frietsch said these roads were receiving heavy amounts of traffic after Highway 14 South closed due to construction. The posted detours guided motorists through Prairie City and Colfax, but many had learned to take gravel roads when traveling north from Monroe to access areas like Newton.
Christopher Braunschweig/PCM Explorer
U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks participates in the Jasper County GOP Trapshoot on Sept. 21 in Newton. Miller-Meeks is in a tight race with Democratic challenger Christina Bohannan.
Screenshot from Beacon Jasper County has decided to keep a stop sign on South 96th Avenue West at the intersection of West 16th
PCM Explorer
Jamee A. Pierson/PCM Explorer
Jamee A. Pierson/PCM Explorer
The three stationary speed cameras located in Prairie City were denied a permit for use following state legislation limiting speed cameras use earlier this year.
Worth Mentioning
Send your event to news@pcmexplorer.com
Events at The Gathering Place
Thursday, Oct. 10
• 10am Patty Richards Music Show
Friday, Oct. 11
• Piano with Jacque Robinson
Monday, Oct. 14
• 8am Coffee & Prayer with Pastor Ann
• 10am Video Exercise Class
Tuesday, Oct. 15
• 6pm Bingo
Wednesday, Oct. 16
• 1pm “Get Fit, Move More!” with Amy S.
Thursday, Oct. 17
• 11:30am or 6 pm Pre-planning workshop with Coburn Funeral Home
• 2pm Planning Your Estate by Family Leader
UMW Fall Bazaar
Monroe United Methodist Church is hosting its 2024 UMW Fall Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12. Coffee time will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and lunch will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
TOPS
TOPS 1025 meets at 5:30 p.m. every Monday at the First Reformed Church in Prairie City for weigh-in, with meeting to follow. Go to the north side parking lot at the church and enter in the north door. Call 515-994-2200 for information.
PCM Food Pantry
The PCM Food Pantry at the Monroe Presbyterian Church, 113 S. Main St. in Monroe, is open 9 a.m. to noon and 6 to 7 p.m. Mondays and 9 a.m. to noon Thursdays.
Men’s Recovery meeting
Lighthouse Recovery Ministries hosts a Men’s Recovery meeting at 6:30 p.m. each Monday at Grace Alive Church, 703 W. Second St. in Prairie City. Contact Barb at b.miller@lighthouserecoveryia.com with questions.
PCM Clothing Closet
The PCM Clothing Closet, on the second floor of the Family Life Center at 105 S. Sherman St. in Prairie City, will be open from 3:30 to 7 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday and 2 to 4 p.m. Sundays. Message volunteers through the PCM Clothing Closet Facebook page to schedule a time for donations.
Alzheimers and Dementia Support Group
The Prairie City First Reformed Church hosts an Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group that meets at 3 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at the Prairie City First Reformed Church. This support group is for family members and caregivers of those living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
GriefShare at FRC
First Reformed Church in Prairie City will host GriefShare each Wednesday for those who have experienced the death of a loved one and are looking for support, healing and hope. For more information contact Mary Lemmert, 515-205-0835 or at hope2you@aol.com.
Community Meal Wednesday
A Community Meal will be served beginning at 5 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at the Monroe United Methodist Church. All are invited to share our free meal and fellowship.
Explorer PCM
M. LaVonne Pendroy
Sept. 30, 2024
M. LaVonne (Clark) Pendroy, 89, of Monroe, Iowa passed away peacefully Sept. 30, 2024 at the Comfort House in Pella, Iowa. LaVonne was born November 19, 1934 in Prai-
Obituaries
rie City, Iowa the daughter of Ken and Blanche (Peery) Clark. She was united in marriage to Marvin E. Pendroy on February 4, 1953. Those left to honor her memory include her children Philip (Deb) Pen-
droy, Paul (Lynn) Pendroy, Perry (Pam) Pendroy, Pat (Karen) Pendroy all of Monroe; 10 grandchildren, Paula (Garrett) Van Der Hart, Vance Pendroy, Jennifer Thompson, Jacob (Angie) Clark, James (Stephanie) Clark, Jackie (Jeremy) Dittmer, Kelli Walker, Nathan Walker, Zachary Pendroy, Krystal (Johanna) Pendroy, and several great and great
great grandchildren. Proceeding her in death were her parents, her husband Marvin and infant daughter Phyllis LeeAnn, and her siblings, and a grandson in law Mark Thompson. Memorial contributions may be made to Wesley Life Hospice in Lavonne’s name. Celebration of life is planned for a later date.
Voeller joins World Food Prize as youth programming and education intern
The World Food Prize Foundation welcomes Trey Voeller as Youth Programming and Education Intern for the 2024-25 academic year. Voeller is one of nine students selected for this prestigious internship opportunity. Since the creation of its collegiate internship program in 2001, the Foundation has welcomed over 400 students from around the country. Internship programs provide undergraduate students with the opportunity to explore global issues of food insecurity, sustainable, and international development. As an Intern, students will take on
significant responsibility and initiative as they encounter a wide variety of Foundation projects. Youth Programming and Education Interns will play a vital role in youth outreach, youth program promotion, and networking.
“Throughout the upcoming year with the World Food Prize Foundation (WFPF), I am excited to foster relationships with youth in Iowa and globally within the youth programs offered by the WFPF by learning about their passions and research papers addressing food insecurity,” Voeller said. “Beyond student connections, I eagerly look forward to meeting food and agricultural leaders worldwide, developing a deep understanding of food scarcity, and improving my leadership skills as a Youth Programming and Education Intern.”
Voeller plans to graduate from Des Moines Area Community College in the Spring of 2025 with an Associates in Biology and later transfer to pursue a bachelor’s degree from a neighboring college. Voeller will provide The World Food Prize Foundation with a valuable skill set and wealth of knowledge. Each Intern will be paired with a mentor as they seek to explore the complexities of operating a global non-profit organization and fulfill The Foundation’s mission of inspiring action to increase the quality, quantity, and availability of food for all.
More information about the World Food Prize Foundation internship program can be found at www.worldfoodprize.org/en/ learn_and_act/world_food_ prize_foundation_internships/.
Gardening in the Air virtual symposium returns Oct. 19
Gardening is an art, and to be successful, a gardener must manage a wide range of factors and conditions. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will help bring the many pieces together in a one-day, nine-session webinar Oct. 19 called Gardening in the Air.
Led by horticulture experts from across the Mid-
west, the Gardening in the Air Virtual Symposium will feature presentations from three tracks, including Gardening in a Changing Environment, Edible Vegetables and Nature Critters.
Attendees can mix and match sessions based on personal preference, by selecting up to three different programs. One session from each track will
be offered at 9 a.m., 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Central Time. All sessions will be offered via Zoom, requiring participants to have internet access and a valid email address. Gardening in the Air.“This online symposium is a great opportunity to get advice and information on how to garden better – all at a time when many of us are reflecting on our gardens from this past year and looking to figuring out what to do next year,” said Aaron Steil, horticulture specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. Under Gardening in a Changing Environment, participants can choose from three sessions called Pick Me: Decision Points of How New Plants Are
Chosen; Gravel Gardens and Other Water Wise Gardening Techniques; and Urban Forestry for the 21st Century: A Climate Tool for All.
The second track sessions are History and Culture of Vegetables, Colorful Vegetables, and Vegetable Gardening Methods for Small Spaces.
Lastly, the Nature Critters track sessions are If You Plant It, They Will Come: A Plan to Attract Birds; What to Expect When You’re Expecting the Spotted Lanternfly to Arrive; and Better Flower and Garden Photography. There is no cost to attend the Zoom sessions, but registration is required by Oct. 13.
Drivers stay alert for deer movement
Drivers are advised to stay alert as they travel Iowa’s roadsides over the coming weeks. Autumn deer behavior, crop harvest and peak travel times for motorists combine to hike the risk of vehicle-deer collisions in Iowa.
From the middle of October until the third week of November, Iowa bucks become more active in the pursuit of does during the breeding season. Motorist may
be distracted by the first deer that crosses not seeing the pursuing buck. This adds to multiple scenarios of fast moving, unpredictable deer crossing highways.
The crop harvest is already in full swing, concentrating deer into remaining cover that is often brushy creeks, trees or fence lines which often intersect with roads. A third factor will be the change away from daylight savings time on Nov. 3, placing
more Iowans behind the wheel during the deer-heavy dawn and dusk periods.
A few ways to give drivers an edge during this period are to reduce speed, increase following distance from other cars and to sweep eye movements from ditch to ditch, especially during those low light periods and when approaching those brushy or tree lined ‘funnels’ near roads. Drivers are also encouraged not to ‘veer for deer,’ leav-
ing the lane of traffic could cause a collision with another vehicle or a roadside obstacle, such as a utility pole or culvert.
Iowa’s deer herd is managed to balance recreational opportunities, such as wildlife viewing and hunting, with negative impacts like crop and property damage. Iowa’s deer management relies on an engaged stakeholder process to make science-based decisions for the benefit of all Iowans.
Voeller
Explorer PCM
Cameras
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greatly decreased. This is a result of the success from having the program in place.” He also said the number of accidents
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weather that caused this anomaly. Usually, the trapshoot is mired by extreme forecasts. It’s either really windy, really muggy, really rainy or really bright. But for the first hour or so the weather was damn near perfect. Then the wind picked up. Then again from a different direction. It became too much for Miller-Meeks, whose hair kept getting in her eyes during her turn at trap. Historically, she is one of the better shooters, but the wind no doubt caused a few shots to miss their target. During her speech, she found a new target: opponent Christina Bohannan.
“I know if you’ve watched TV at all then you know I had to take a break from being on the yacht and drinking champagne,” Miller-Meeks said sarcastically. “I had to change the champagne to beers to be here in Iowa. If you’ve seen the ad, you’ll know what I’m talking about.”
Miller-Meeks may be referring to Bohannan’s “Up There” ad, which depicts Miller-Meeks with a crowd of people clinking glasses of champagne. The ad claims Miller-Meeks’ campaign took over $1 million from special interests groups. Other Bohannan For Congress ads feature the same scene.
It is not the first time Bohannan’s ads have caused a stir. Several TV news outlets, including KCCI, have run a fact check segment on the
has been greatly reduced since the cameras have been in place. In a similar timeframe, from 2016-2019 there were 63 recorded accidents compared to 28 recorded accidents from 2020-present.
“The overall goal of the program was to improve the safety of the roadways but there is also a financial impact that will be noticed, as well,” Gott said. “The city
Bohannan campaign’s ad that claims Iowa has one of the strictest abortion bans in the country and that it’s because of Miller-Meeks. KCCI reported the claims untrue.
Miller-Meeks told the Jasper County crowd: “Christina Bohannan is trying to lie and buy her way into Congress. And we are not going to let her do that.”
As with any election season, Miller-Meeks said there is a lot on the line for this congressional district election. If the Electoral College has a tie, she said, the U.S. House of Representatives decides the tie-breaker. Miller-Meeks said Donald Trump would want a Republican-led House on that situation.
“Do you think Christina Bohannan will vote to impeach President Trump? Yes. Do you think I will vote to impeach President Trump? No way! No how! Never!” Miller-Meeks said. “… There is one thing I agree with Kamala Harris on: Let’s turn the page on the Biden/Harris Administration and get his country back on track!”
Whittaker has made a number of appearances in Jasper County, but it was his first outing to the trapshoot. He spoke about national security being a key issue on the ballot, claiming the United States is weaker than it has ever been since the “outbreak of World War II.” The world is on fire, Whittaker said.
“We have Hezbollah/ Hamas causing chaos and war in the Middle East, we have Russia invading Ukraine and we have an ever-ascending China
is currently evaluating how current and future projects will now be funded with the loss of the violations paid by speeding motorists.”
Dollars from the speed cameras have been used to fund the new public library location and fire and EMS building, along with numerous other projects. The city has collected more than $3 million since
that is currently not being checked by the United States of America and our allies,” he said. “…We all know Donald Trump is much stronger than a weak Kamala Harris.”
The southern border, he added, is out of control. Whittaker lobbied that a Trump White House means a more secure border and an immigration system that works for the American people, serves the interests of the United States and brings “the best and the brightest” from around the world.
“I mean, we can’t bring everybody and we can’t have a system that’s unorganized,” he said before pinning the issue on Democrats. “…You cannot cause the problem and then suggest somehow you’re going to fix it. That’s like somebody breaks into a house and suggests they’re going to offer you security.”
where you live every child is safe to play in their front yard, and everyone is secure in their own homes with their personal effects.”
Donald Trump will do that, he added, because he has seen him do it before. Trump issued an executive order to the U.S. Department of Justice in 2017 to support law enforcement and reduce crime in America. Whittaker said the United States needs to get back to measures like these.
“Instead of weaponizing the Department of Justice against political enemies like we’ve seen under (U.S. Attorney General) Merrick Garland,” he said.
the cameras were put in place in 2021.
“While we respect the decision of the IDOT, we are disappointed in the outcome since we feel that we did meet all of the requirements that were asked for,” Gott said. “Prairie City was not the only city affected by the decision, since the majority of the permits from other communities were denied, as well.”
said. “And my question to my good friends here in Jasper County is: Who do you want in charge of that birthday celebration and that fireworks show on July 4, 2026. I think the answer is pretty clear.”
Providing most of the hoots and cheers and early applauses was Dunwell, who was noticeably tired this time around. Dunwell has campaigned for this seat four times since 2020. He campaigned and lost to Wes Breckenridge in 2020. He won the seat in a special election the following year when Breckenridge resigned.
In 2022, he won the seat against Democratic opponent Erick Zehr and Libertarian challenger Michael Wood. Now, he’s back at it again.
Dunwell, too, stressed the importance of this election. He recalled a conversation he had with a Democratic lawmaker blaming Republican policies for the increased lines at the food pantries. Dunwell said he stopped her and told her to think about a few things.
must be used to lower the levy — what you pay per $1,000 on your home,” Dunwell said.
The Republican lawmaker went on to celebrate the party’s legislative wins this past year, including the decision on a law that supporters say protects girls sports but others say bans transgender students. Dunwell also praised the state’s sixweek abortion ban, but he said more needs to be done on that issue.
“We’re about providing resources for moms and dads who are going through the birth of a baby and need our help and need our support,” he said.
Dunwell went on to say one of the best things Jasper County has going for is its support from the governor, and his relationship with the governor.
“When we needed help with our redevelopment zone at Legacy Plaza, the governor stepped in,” he said. “When we needed help with the racetrack, the governor stepped in. When our conservation was looking for grants, Mariannette Miller-Meeks and the federal government stepped in and the governor stepped in.”
Earlier this year the U.S. Senate failed to advance a border security bill after all Republicans but one voted against it. Many lawmakers say Trump put pressure on lawmakers to block the deal. Whittaker went on to say Democrats are suggesting there is not a crime problem in America.
“Immigrant crime has skyrocketed because of this illegal border invasion,” he said. “We have to get back to a law and order system. We have to get to a place that no matter
The economy, he concluded, is also an issue Americans need to consider when going to the polls. Inflation has been out of control, and Whittaker said Americans have lost their savings because they have to spend more than what they are making. Whittaker said Trump will bring down inflation and bring back prosperity.
Of course, there was another reason Whittaker said Republicans should vote and encourage others to vote for Donald Trump that has nothing to do with issues.
“In 2026, we’re going to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States of America,” Whittaker
“We have a 2.8 percent unemployment rate in Iowa and we have a growing economy. The reason people are suffering and the reason the lines are so long is because of the Biden tax inflation,” Dunwell said. “It has driven prices for groceries through the roof and we’ve had high energy costs across the board.”
Fiscal responsibility is of the utmost importance for Dunwell. He said Republicans have lowered the state’s income tax for all Iowans. He touted the Republican’s controls on property tax, noting there is still work to be done. However, House File 718 has been heavily criticized by local taxing entities.
“We put in some checks and some balances saying how high they can raise that levy, what they have to do with all of that assessment growth, saying in most cases some of that assessment growth
Dunwell added Jasper County can pick up the phone and talk about opportunities to make sure it stays in the forefront of the her mind outside the urban area.
“I need your support,” Dunwell said. “We need to get Donald Trump elected president, amen? We need to get Mariannette Miller-Meeks continue to represent us in the U.S. House. We need to elect Doug Cupples as a Jasper County supervisor and we need to elect Thad Nearmyer for that two-year seat.”
Nearmyer, a candidate for county supervisor and the former chair of the Jasper County Republican Party, spoke briefly about the importance of voting early — which is also an uncharacteristic trait of Republicans — and in his speech he revealed what could be the reason for the event’s tonal shift.
“President Trump, Congresswoman Miller-Meeks and Representative Dunwell are all in super tight races and they need every vote they can get,” he said. “(Dunwell’s) opponent is the real deal. We should not overlook this. We have to work our tails off and make sure our entire slate gets elected.”
Christopher Braunschweig/PCM Explorer
Iowa House Rep. Jon Dunwell listens to a guest speaker during the Jasper County GOP Trapshoot fundraiser on Sept. 21 in Newton. Dunwell is running for re-election to the Iowa House District 38 seat.
Confronting the threat of the Chinese Communist Party
The aggressive actions of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) pose an undeniable threat to our national security.
Last year, when a Chinese spy balloon flew over the nation’s airspace garnering national news attention, Chinese-state intelligence operations rose to the forefront of national security discussions. While Beijing’s influence operations are not always as obvious, they are equally as alarming. In addition to purchasing farmland next to military bases, the CCP has stolen enough intellectual property to cost the United States hundreds of billions of dollars. In one of the most poorly kept secrets, CCP-owned enterprises often employ children or exploit and oppress religious minorities for slave labor — particularly in the manufacturing sector.
Our District
U.S. Rep.
Mariannette Miller-Meeks
Perhaps most insidiously, the Chinese government subsidizes the creation of synthetic fentanyl precursors which are supplied to cartels and trafficked into the United States – contributing to the deaths of over 70,000 Americans each year. We cannot mischaracterize these offenses as the scrappy, potshots of a faraway bully. The CCP’s strategy of subver-
There aren’t enough services to prevent homelessness
By Annabelle Ortiz
Do you know who experiences homelessness in the United States? Often, it’s hard-working parents who give back to their communities — maybe people just like you.
I worked with people experiencing homelessness and helped women who were survivors of domestic violence. Then I experienced domestic violence myself and lost my own home. After that, I knew firsthand what it was like.
I’m a woman of faith and married an elder from my church. It came as a terrible shock when I suffered a severe injury from violence at his hands and had to take my children from a previous relationship and flee our home.
There weren’t safe openings in the shelters where my children and I could be together, so I sent them to be with their father while I tried to survive homelessness and get back on my feet.
I applied to my state’s crime victims compensation fund to help secure housing and reunite with my children, but this process took over two years. In the meantime, I had major surgery whose complications resulted in permanent disability and left me unable to sustain meaningful employment.
I was disabled, separated from my children, homeless, and in shock. Life wasn’t supposed to be this way.
When my victim’s compensation funds finally came through, I got my children and relocated us to another state where we would be safe. I was accepted into a leadership institute and began cooking meals for those in need. I started my own ministry. The leadership program even used my story to train social workers.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) helped us through the hard times. With prayer and a modest safety net, I was back on track. Then COVID-19 hit. The homeless shelter I cooked for closed down due to insufficient funds. SSDI mistakenly halted my payments due to a clerical error that would take months to sort out. My rent skyrocketed overnight. I quickly fell behind on rent and ended up back on the street.
Here’s what I’ve learned from the people I’ve ministered to — and my own bad luck: There are precious few services that help prevent homelessness. The obstacles to assistance when we need it are many. You must be destitute to receive help, and as soon as you begin to get back on your feet, that critical assistance can be pulled away.
Further, it’s more expensive to have assistance programs kick in after the tsunami and toss us a sponge for cleanup. We need to prevent the storm from happening in the first place. We aren’t homeless due to desire. Grave things have happened to us, most of them beyond our control.
If we are ill, we need health care. If our partners are abusing us or our children, we need assistance safely relocating. If our rent skyrockets, we need rental assistance and a Renters Tax Credit. If there isn’t enough affordable housing, we need to build it. If we’re disabled or lose work, we need reliable and sufficient disability and unemployment insurance. And if our children are hungry, we need help putting food on the table.
None of this is as expensive as the huge tax breaks politicians give the wealthy or the over one trillion dollars a year spent largely to increase the profits of the defense industry. These are questions of priorities. Ask yourself, if what happened to me happened to you or your loved one, what would you want?
Policies that ensure our safety, security, and prosperity. That’s what we all want. Together, we can demand it.
Annabelle Ortiz is a mother, founder of GHB911 CommunityOutreach,andapassionateadvocate.
sion is an urgent and imminent threat. Through their “united front” work — a blueprint for state-backed foreign influence operations — the CCP funds Confucius Institutes across America with the objective of manipulating public perception.
Despite these grave threats, the Biden-Harris Administration has failed to respond decisively. They promised to be tough on China, yet we have witnessed an alarming expansion of Chinese Communist influence. In this leadership vacuum created by the White House, House Republicans have taken initiative by passing 25 critical bills aimed at countering the CCP’s threats. One of the most important of these bills was prohibiting the CCP from purchasing farmland.
The House of Representatives passed the ‘Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act’ which would allow USDA to review foreign investments into agricultural land. Our home state has been a leader on this
issue by enacting stronger reporting requirements for foreign investments into Iowa farmland. It is crucial for us to keep our domestic food supply secure. Also among the 25 bills is also the ‘STOP CCP Act’, which imposes stringent sanctions on CCP officials who continue to harass Taiwan or contribute to the Uyghur genocide and the ‘End Chinese Dominance of Electric Vehicles in America Act’. It prohibits Chinese manufacturers of EV components from receiving U.S. tax credits.
Let me be clear: the fight against the CCP’s influence is far from over. We will not back down. Together, we must defend our nation, uphold our values, and stand fiercely against communist tyranny.
In Congress, I will remain relentless in my commitment to legislation that confronts the ever-growing threat of the CCP. We cannot afford complacency; our national security and way of life in Iowa are at stake.
Presidential candidate endorsements speaks volumes
By Steve Corbin
There’s only a few weeks remaining before the 2024 presidential election comes to a close, that is, pending post-Nov. 5 election certification, recounts, challenges and lawsuits. Ed Kilgore, political columnist for Intelligencer-New York Magazine since 2015, estimates that only 4-7 percent of the electorate is genuinely undecided as to whether to vote for GOP’s Trump-Vance ticket or the Democratic Party’s Harris-Walz team.
However, there might be a bigger problem for both political campaigns. That is, Pew Research Center’s analysis of the past three elections reveals 63 percent of Americans – an alarming number — are not dependable voters. Sometimes they vote and sometimes they don’t vote. These voters are referred to as irregular voters.
What might be influential to the undecided and irregular voters won’t come down to Trump-Vance promises or Harris-Walz platitudes, per se, but to endorsements by people of influence and/or by political loyalists announcing they are voting for a person from the “other side.”Let’s explore what’s been happening along these lines Donald J. Trump, Republican
In late August, Trump announced two former Democrats were appointed to his hopeful post-Nov. 5 transition team, namely Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard. Kennedy, a former Democrat, turned independent but most recently ended his presidential campaign. Five months ago, Trump called Kennedy a ”radical left lunatic.” Former U.S. Rep. Gabbard (Dem., Hawaii, 20132021) left the Democratic Party
in 2022. The Daily Beast reported that on Feb. 19, 2023, Gabbard spoke at a `Russian Patriot’ rally at Washington, DC’s National Mall along with former Democrat congressman Dennis Kucinich (Ohio), former Libertarian congressman Ron Paul and Green Party presidential candidate Dr. Jill Stein. Two other Democrats have endorsed Trump: Ruben Diaz, Sr., a New York City council person and New York State senator, and Rod Blagojevich, former Illinois governor who was released from prison after Trump pardoned him (Feb. 18, 2020) and cut short his 14-year sentence related to political corruption (News Nation, Aug. 30).
Three current Democratic Party U.S. House of Representatives (i.e., Jared Golden — Maine, Josh Harder — California and Mary Peltola — Alaska) along with three Democrats running against GOP candidates (i.e., Lanon Baccam — Iowa, Adam Frisch — Colorado and Janelle Stelson — Pennsylvania) have not formally endorsed Harris (Politico, Aug. 14). They may throw their support to Trump.
The Guardian reports more than 60 billionaires, technology titans and venture capitalists are backing Trump’s campaign (Sept. 6).
Kamala Harris, Democrat CNBC News reported on Sept. 24 that 405 economists endorsed vice resident Harris for president over former president Trump.
In a Sept. 18 letter published by the New York Times, 111 former staffers, all Republicans who served in the Reagan, G.H.W. Bush, G.W. Bush and/or Trump administrations or members of Congress, announced they are
backing Harris. The former GOP employees wrote: “Of course, we have plenty of honest, ideological disagreements with Vice President Harris and Gov. Walz. That’s to be expected. The alternative, however, is simply untenable.”On Sunday, Sept. 22, a letter released by 741 former national security officials — made up of bipartisan senior leaders — endorsed Harris for president,calling Trump “impulsive and ill-informed” (CNBC).
On Sept. 6, 88 corporate leaders signed a letter endorsing Harris for president. Signers included James Murdoch (an heir to the Murdoch family media empire of Fox News and Wall Street Journal), Facebook co-founder Dustin Moskovitz and more than a dozen who made their fortunes on Wall Street (CNBC)
The `Republicans for Harris’ website says “over 100,000 people have joined this campaign within a campaign” (Newsweek, Sept. 5).
Thirty-six news agencies have endorsed Harris for president as compared to seven endorsing Trump’s candidacy.
Traditionally, endorsements have played a major role in giving one side or the other an advantage. With the Trump-Harris race being more deadlocked as compared to previous elections, this may be the year party switchers, billionaires, national security officers, presidential staffers and economists may sway the undecided and irregular voters to determine who will be America’s 47th president.
A special plea to the irregular voters: don’t sit out this election. Vote on Nov. 5 as research is replete the future of democracy is at stake. Contact Steve Corbin at Steven.B.Corbin@gmail.com
The PCM
PCM Volleyball Celebrates Senior Night
There are a total of 6 senior Mustangs on the volleyball team. Four being players (Rebecca DeVries, Addison Steenhoek, Chloe Sloan, and Stella Stravers), and two managers (Jake Winters and Maddie Burkett). When asked why Winters decided to step up and be a manager this year, he said, “Since I play volleyball myself, I kind of wanted to just help out at practices and share my wisdom and help the girls get better this year. I also wanted to just spend time with my friends since all of them are participating in volleyball and Maddie Burkett is alongside managing.” As much fun as Thursday’s game was for the Mustangs, it was also super emotional as this was the seniors night. The night they walk through their home gym, which they’ve played in for years, not only high school but also youth leagues, and reminisce on their memories. They walk with their parents as their parents hold their tears back. Seniors are then brought gifts, which are funded by the team, and give their juniors a hug. The gift baskets this year contained sugar scrub, lotion, shower steamers, candy, and Alani’s. Along with a cute little basket. Although this was senior night and the last home game for all levels, your varsity team will be back on October 10 at home for a triangular against Cardinal and Woodward-Granger. Be sure to come support them!
How does Senior Kaden Clark handle two Fall SportsSenior Nights?
by: J. Steenhoek
Band and football senior Kaden Clark explains how he balances football with playing in the marching band. Clark reflects on a typical day at marching band by stating, “Usually we meet in the band room at 7 o’clock. Then we’ll either go outside and practice our marching or stay inside and practice our music.”
On game days when Clark has to play during halftime, he will “go to the sideline by the kicking net, and then I’ll take off all my pads and my gloves. Then usually I’ll have my dad there with a gatorade and my sweatshirt, so I’ll throw my sweatshirt on and get a drink of gatorade, and I’ll meet the band on the field.” Clark explained the reasoning behind this saying, “It’s usually cold, so when I come back from playing, I’m still kind of warm, so I don’t have to worry about getting hurt in the second half.” Balancing the two can be difficult, but Clark seems to have it managed. Clark was honored with other band members, Hannah Minteer, Isabelle Masterson, Dave Westphal, Jake Winters, Max Kimball, and Xander Madison.
A Glimpse into Cheer from a Senior Cheerleaders Prospective
by: J. Steenhoek
PCM High School cheer senior Ryanne Helton describes a typical day at football cheer practice, saying, “We usually come in at 3:20. Some of the girls come in and tell us to get stretched and everything, then we just do stunts.” Practices are only twice a week now, but they used to be every day to prepare for the first few games of the season. Helton continued on with, “I’m looking forward to making new friends, and I like going to other schools and seeing everything that they have.” With playoffs coming up, cheer practices will have to become more frequent to really work on getting the routines down. Helton was one of the 4 cheer seniors inclduing, Jaylyn DeVries, Taylor Fairbanks, and Charlotte Landwehr were all honored for every thing they have done on the cheer team. before Friday’s football game against Vinton-Shellsburg.
Flipping on the Competion
J. Steenhoek
This football senior class knows when to flip the switch from fun to serious. While absolutely destroying their competition this season, scoring over 300 points total and limiting their opponents to just above 50 so far. The 19 seniors, Tad Wilson, Finn Wilson, Easton VanVeen, Gavin VanGorp, Cutler VanderLune, Trenner VanDyke, Kaden Valcore, Trigg Steenhoek, Harlan Shannon, Adrien Robbins, Pete Kiernan, Carson Hansen, Riley Graber, Brevin DeRaad, Gavin DeRaad, Kaden Clark, Sawyer Bouwkamp, Tate Birkenholtz, and Konnor Bell were finally able to have some fun and be honored on this past Friday night. The main “theme” these boys’ are carrying on for this year is “Backflips and Fireworks.” Riley Graber gave us what this theme meant to him. “To me, the backflips and fireworks shirt symbolizes what type of work this class has put in for this season and the type of team we want to be remembered as. One that was great at winning and great at putting on a show for the community.” This team will definitely be one to remember, as they are currently undefeated this season and hoping to keep that streak against West Marshall tonight.
October Students of the Month
Tate Birkenholtz
Parents: Jeese & Cate Birkenholtz
Future Plans: Attend Iowa University with an Undecided Major Extracurricular Activites: Football & FCA
Favorite Classes: Spanish 4
Advice for Underclassmen: “Enjoy the moments” Best High School Memory: Playing football with my friends
Dream Job: Strength & conditioning coach for football
Rylee Parsons Print Editor
Parents: Dustin & Andrea Engle
Employer: Fishin’ Hole
Future Plans: Enlist in the National Guard. Go to DMACC then transfer to UNI for a buisness degree
Extracurricular Activites: Trap
Favorite Classes: Spanish 4, Fitness, & Physcology
Advice for Underclassmen: “Don’t be scared to try new things” Best High School Memory: Football Games & Tee-peeing with friends for homecoming Dream Job: Pilot
I believe PCM students in all grade levels should have more of a voice regarding conflicts and resolutions when it comes to the decisions being made about their school. I think they should be heard whenever they have a thought and/or an opinion about any topic. This can even be as little as “I want the old meat in the crispitos” to as big as designing our own class t-shirts for homecoming week. Some PCM students are afraid to speak their minds and have a voice because they don’t know what the outcome would be. They could get a suspension, so they will keep their thoughts and opinions to themselves when it could be a really good idea to help the school. Others don’t care if they get into trouble and just speak their minds despite the consequences they may face. I think it would be a good idea that students should be more comfortable in school. I think one idea to make the kids feel more comfortable is that students could send out a Google form and make it anonymous so that when students want to voice their opinions, they have an opportunity to. Student Government is the group that makes decisions for the student body to express their opinions; however, I think they should be reaching out to the whole student body to get more information on what everybody in every grade wants to see as far as changes within the school. If we did this, we could make the kids feel more comfortable while attending school. Last year journalism student Shay Burns did a Q&A with former student school board representative Faith Defenbaugh. Q: What does this entail? A: “I go to every school board meeting, and if it is something that evolves students or the students or anything like that in general, I have the opportunity to speak up and give my opinion on it, and in the future, when there’s something that revolves around the bigger student, I’ll be able to bring it back here and get students’ input on it, then bring it back to the school board and discuss it further with them.” I believe there should be more of giving out their opinion when they have the chance, especially when it comes to the student body. We need to try to make the PCM School District a better place for all students and let the kids be able to express themselves without having to face the consequences of getting into trouble or being ignored completely.
Senior Kaden Clark walking down the track Friday night to be honored for both his accomplishments in Football and in the Band.
Photo
Cheer senior Ryanne Helton seen walking down the track with her family on senior night.
Photo
Volleyball manager Jake Winters walking down the court with his family before Thursday’s game.
Photo by: R. Parsons
Senior football player Riley Graber walking down the track with his parents last Friday.
Photo by:
Alyce Engle
Piper Clark Web Editor
Piper Clark Web Editor
Rylee Parsons Print Editor
Addyson Pederson TTV Editor
PCM football makes quick work of Vikings
PCM Explorer
MONROE — The Class
2A No. 2 PCM football team scored touchdowns on its first three plays from scrimmage, blocked two punts in the first quarter and dominated Vinton-Shellsburg 52-8 on Oct. 4.
The Mustangs led 31-0 after one and scored all 52 points in the first half to stay unbeaten on Senior Night.
The 2A District 6 victory clinches a playoff berth for PCM. The Mustangs improved to 6-0 and are outscoring opponents 303-50 this season.
Adrien Robbins went 68 yards to paydirt on PCM’s very first offensive play and the hosts never trailed.
Trenner Van Dyke blocked Vinton-Shellsburg’s first two punts and the Mustangs turned them into quick points.
Robbins made it 14-0 with a 13-yard TD run and then Gavin Van Gorp connected with Riley Graber on a 12-yard TD pass.
After another three-andout from the Mustang defense, the offense scored in two plays with Gavin Steenhoek catching a 19-yard TD pass from Van Gorp.
Dominic Witt booted a 40-
yard field goal at the end of the first. Robbins scored on a 72-yard touchdown run in the second and Graber grabbed a 26-yard TD catch to cap the Mustangs’ scoring.
Evan Jones also scored on a short TD run with 4:10 to go until halftime.
Vinton-Shellsburg’s only points came on an Alex Bramow 7-yard run and a Bramow two-point conversion run with 1:04 to go in the game.
The Mustangs (6-0, 3-0 in the district) out-gained the Vikings 400-151. PCM’s varsity offense ran only 20 plays.
PCM has scored at least 52 points in five of its six games.
Vinton-Shellsburg is being outscored 269-24 this fall.
The Vikings (0-6, 0-3) rushed for 49 yards on 27 carries.
Robbins led PCM with 237 yards and three TDs on 10 carries. He also had a 14-yard catch.
Robbins ranks third in 2A with 1,064 rushing yards despite ranking only 20th in carries. His 11.7 yards per carry leads 2A and his 13 rushing TDs are third.
Van Gorp finished 6-of-8 through the air for 82 yards
and three scores. His 22 TDs rank second in 2A and his 14 passing touchdowns also are second.
Jones gained 42 yards and scored one TD on six carries, Chase Wagaman ran for 25 yards on two carries and Steenhoek caught a 19-yard TD.
Graber’s two catches went for 38 yards and two scores. He leads 2A with eight receiving TDs and is tied for seventh with 411 yards on only 16 catches.
The Mustangs ran for 318 yards and averaged 14.5 yards per carry in the win. They had a 15-7 advantage in first downs.
Tad Wilson led the defense with five tackles and one sack, Brevin DeRaad tallied five tackles and Easton VanVeen and Jones both chipped in four tackles.
Finn Wilson collected three tackles, Kaden Clark contributed 2.5 tackles, Tucker Wheeler had one sack and Steenhoek snagged one interception.
Witt’s 40-yard field goal is the sixth longest in 2A this season. He was 7-of-7 in PATs and booted eight of his nine kickoffs for touchbacks. His 39 touchbacks are the most in 2A.
PCM volleyball sweeps Hawks on Senior Night
MONROE — Addison Steenhoek thought something was fishy before PCM’s Heart of Iowa Athletic Conference volleyball matchup with South Hamilton on Oct. 3.
The Mustang senior saw balloons in the training room and wondered what they were for.
After the 25-19, 25-8, 25-15 home win over the Hawks, Steenhoek found out the balloons and celebratory signs were for her.
Steenhoek’s now the school-record holder for career digs and digs in a single match.
“I had no clue any of this was happening. It was a fun surprise,” Steenhoek said after the win. “I saw the balloons in the training room and asked what they were for. My teammates said they were for the other team. I had a lot of family and friends here to support me so that was awesome, too.”
The Mustangs started slow on Senior Night but dominated the second and third sets. The victory kept them above .500 for the season and improved their conference mark to 3-2.
South Hamilton is 9-4 against PCM since 2010, but the Mustangs registered their second straight sweep and are winners of four of the past five matches against the Hawks.
Addyson Pederson’s kill and Steenhoek’s ace gave PCM an early lead in the first set, but the game was tied at 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Another Steenhoek ace made it 10-7 later and an ace by Rebecca De Vries kept the advantage at three at 13-10.
South Hamilton (6-20, 1-4 in the HOIAC) got within 13-12 before PCM scored three straight to go up by four.
The Hawks never got closer than two the rest of the way, and the Mustangs ended the set on a 6-2 run.
The biggest reason for the tight first set was in part because of five missed serves by PCM. It missed eight serves in the entire match.
“We’ve started slow the last few matches. It’s taken a minute to settle in for some reason,” PCM head volleyball coach Sarah De Vries said. “We need to focus on the strengths but work on the weaknesses, too. Our serving goes up and down. The first set was terrible.”
The Mustangs (12-8) scored the first five points of the second set. Pederson began the run with a block and ended it with a kill.
A Steenhoek ace later kept the margin at five and then a block by Libby Winters, a kill by Rebecca De Vries and an ace by Peyton Lathrum extended PCM’s advantage to 13-4.
The Mustangs led 15-5, 16-6 and 17-7 before back-to-back kills by Winters and Chloe Sloan pushed the margin to 19-7.
That’s as close as South Hamilton got the rest of the way as PCM ended the set
with a 5-0 run.
“Our serving hasn’t been quite what it was earlier in the season,” Steenhoek said. “We needed to get back to the basics, be confident and get all of our hits in.”
A long service run by Tori Lindsay helped PCM score the first seven points of the third set. She ended the run with back-to-back aces. The lead grew to 14-2 thanks in part to a pair of kills from Lillian Humpal and two Steenhoek aces.
The Hawks didn’t go down without a fight. A Winters block made it 17-6 and her kill kept the lead at double-digits later. South Hamilton closed to 22-15 before a kill and a block from Pederson and an ace by Steenhoek ended the match.
Steenhoek finished with 17 digs and six aces. She extended her school-record for career digs to 587. Chelsea Bird, the previous record holder, finished her career with 533 digs.
“It was obviously fun. We’ve been playing together since we were little so winning on a night like this is cool,”
Steenhoek said about the Senior Night win. “We had a lot of fans here tonight so we wanted to get the win for them, too. It’s nice to end our careers on this floor with a win.”
Lindsay finished with 25 assists, three digs and four aces. She leads the team with 329 assists and 52 aces.
Rebecca De Vries added 10 kills, two assists, three digs and two aces. Her kill efficiency was .500 and she improved her season kill total to a team-best 147.
Winters chipped in seven kills, three digs and two blocks. Her kill efficiency was .400 and she now leads the Mustangs with 43 blocks.
Pederson registered five kills and two blocks, Sloan and Humpal tallied three kills each and Stella Stravers posted three digs. Pederson’s kill efficiency was .375.
The Mustangs finished 66-of-74 in serves with 14 aces. Lindsay was 21-of-22 in serves, while Steenhoek ended 18-of19, De Vries was 9-of-10, Winters and Lathrum served 6-of-7 and Humpal was
6-of-6. PCM had a kill efficiency of .231.
“It’s a mental game just as much as it’s a physical game,” Coach De Vries said. “When you are in your head too much and worried about mistakes, sometimes you don’t play as fluidly as you should. They need to just let that natural ability flow and go after it.”
Notes: Steenhoek broke her own single-match school record for digs with 33 earlier this season in a road loss to Sigourney. She currently has a team-best 185 digs. … Coach De Vries inserted Stravers and Sloan into the starting lineup together for the first time this season. It was the second start for Sloan and Stravers’ first start this fall. Seniors Rebecca De Vries and Steenhoek and senior managers Madeline Burkett and Jake Winters also were recognized before the varsity match.
Nevada 3, PCM 0 MONROE — It took a bit for PCM to get going on Oct. 1, but when the Mustangs did, they played right with Nevada during a HOIAC matchup.
PCM’s slow start resulted in a 25-13, 25-19, 25-23 loss. It was Nevada’s 16th straight three-set sweep against the Mustangs.
“It took us a bit to figure out Nevada,” Coach De Vries said. “They are a tough team with a lot of attacking options, but each set we stayed closer with them. This is one match I would have loved to had another set. We were playing some great volleyball and had some exciting rallies.” Lindsay led the Mustangs with 15 assists, three kills, nine digs and three aces.
Winters tallied five kills, nine digs and two assists, Rebecca De Vries added nine kills, two digs and two assists and Steenhoek posted three assists and eight digs.
Humpal registered two kills, three digs and two aces and Lathrum put down four kills. PCM was 46-of-56 in serves with seven aces.
The Cubs (26-9, 5-1) improved to 19-0 against PCM since 2007.
“Nevada is probably the toughest serving team we have faced so far and that threw us off a bit,” Coach De Vries said.
“Not being able to get good attacks off our serve receive was a factor in this loss. I’m proud of our girls and how they continued to fight for every point.”
Mustangs finish second at Pleasantville tournament
PLEASANTVILLE — PCM had two different results in its three-set matches at the Pleasantville tournament on Oct. 5.
The Mustangs rallied to down Colfax-Mingo in three but lost an early lead against host Pleasantville in what turned out to be the championship match.
PCM finished 3-1 for the day though and came home with a runner-up finish.
Troy Hyde/PCM Explorer
PCM junior Gavin Steenhoek (7) celebrates a first-quarter touchdown with senior Riley Graber during the Mustangs’ home win over Vinton-Shellsburg on Oct. 4. Graber caught two TD passes in the victory, too.
By Troy Hyde PCM Explorer
Troy Hyde/PCM Explorer
PCM senior Stella Stravers made three digs in her first start of the season for the Mustangs during their three-set win over South Hamilton on Oct. 3.
Short-handed Mustangs face tough field at Nevada
COLO — The PCM cross country teams both were short-handed against a tough field on Sept. 30.
The Mustangs faced a trio of state-ranked squads and a handful of other Class 3A programs during the Nevada Cub Invitational at Hickory Grove Park.
The 2A No. 11 PCM girls were without three varsity regulars and another runner who has been on varsity this season, while the boys did not have two of its top five in Coby DeRaad and Gabe Nessa.
Still, the Mustang girls finished fourth in a 10-team field and trailed 2A No. 17 Roland-Story by only 28 points. The PCM boys took sixth and trailed 2A No. 18 Roland-Story by only 14 points.
Class 3A No. 10 Gilbert scored 65 points to win the girls’ team title. Class 3A No.
13 North Polk (73) was eight points behind in second with 2A No. 17 Roland-Story (100), 2A No. 11 PCM (128) and Iowa Falls-Alden (129) completing the top five.
The PCM girls did not have the services of Abi Teeter, Bailey Wheeler, Annie Ford or Paiten Rumbaugh due to either injury or illness, according to PCM head cross country coach Eric Osterhaus.
Lila Milani led the way in seventh with a time of 22 minutes, 6.7 seconds.
Darbey DeRaad (22:10.2) was next in ninth. Raegan Vannoy (23:40.3) finished 30th, Ali Hilsabeck (24:04.5) took 38th and Alexis Fagg (25:46.5) ended up 52nd as the final scoring runner. Katelynn Fagg (26:02.4) was a non-scoring runner in 54th.
Class 3A No. 15 Alexis Hergenreter of North Polk won the girls’ 5K race in 20:13.7.
The Mustang boys scored a
respectable 165 points without two of its top runners.
Class 3A No. 1 Gilbert posted a perfect score of 15 after its five scoring runners went 1-23-4-5. North Polk (81) edged 3A No. 16 Nevada (82) in second and the rest of the top five featured West Marshall (142) and 2A No. 18 Roland-Story (151). PCM (165) led the next group in sixth.
The Mustangs were led by Kash Fischer in 11th. His 5K time was 18:43. Owen Osterhaus (19:28.3) finished 21st. Joe Shaver (20:28.9), Rylan Edgington (20:30.3), Charlie Ford (20:42.4) and Kolby Clark (20:44.4) were separated by only 16 seconds in 43rd, 44th, 46th and 47th, respectively.
Clark and Wyatt Vannoy (21:09.8) were the non-scoring runners. Vannoy placed 49th.
Class 3A No. 3 Logan Bleich of Gilbert won the boys’ race in 17:10.3.
The Mustangs opened with a 2114, 21-5 win over Martensdale-St. Marys and then rallied to down Colfax-Mingo 18-21, 22-20, 15-12. They also swept Southeast Warren in a tight match 22-20, 21-19.
In the title match, PCM started with a 21-12 win, but the Trojans rallied to win 21-16, 15-13.
Rebecca De Vries led the Mustangs with eight kills, two aces and two blocks against Martensdale-St. Marys (5-21).
Lindsay added 10 assists, two kills and three digs, Winters chipped in seven digs and three kills and Steenhoek tallied six digs and three aces.
The Mustangs were 39-of-40 in serves with Steenhoek going 11-of11, Hudnut serving 10-of-10 and Lindsay finishing 10-of-11.
PCM had a kill efficiency of .270 with Rebecca De Vries finishing at .538 and Winters posting a .400.
In the comeback win over Colfax-Mingo (6-11), Lindsay finished with 12 assists, five kills, three digs and three aces.
Rebecca De Vries registered six kills, three blocks, six digs and two aces.
Winters added two kills, two assists, three blocks and eight digs, Pederson tallied three kills and two blocks and Steenhoek chipped in three assists and five digs. Hudnut collected six digs and Lathrum put down three kills.
The Mustangs were 48-of-53 in serves with Lindsay going 17-of17 and Humpal finishing 8-of-8.
Steenhoek hit on seven of her eight serves.
PCM finished with seven aces and had a kill efficiency of .155.
The Mustangs got 14 assists, six kills and five digs from Lindsay against Southeast Warren.
Rebecca De Vries posted six kills, five digs, three blocks and two aces, Winters had six kills, five digs and two blocks and Steenhoek registered two assists, six digs and two aces.
Pederson put down four kills, Hudnut had five digs, Humpal collected four digs and Claire Van Wyk tallied three digs.
The Mustangs were 36-of-42 in serves with five aces. Steenhoek finished 10-of-11.
PCM had a kill efficiency of .229 with Lindsay finishing at .667 and De Vries hitting at .312.
Jessica Lillig led Southeast Warren (21-13) with four kills, seven assists and five digs.
Rebecca De Vries put down 10 kills and had five digs and two aces in the loss to Pleasantville.
Winters added eight kills, two blocks and eight digs, Lindsay had 25 assists and eight digs and Pederson put down six kills.
Steenhoek finished with 15 digs, Hudnut and Stravers each posted three digs, Humpal collected two digs and Lathrum put down two kills.
PCM was 41-of-51 in serves and had a kill efficiency of .237. Pederson’s kill efficiency was .750, while Winters finished at .467 and De Vries ended at .222.
Lillian Mason led Pleasantville (18-10) with eight kills, six assists and eight digs.
PCM Explorer
Troy Hyde/PCM Explorer
PCM juniors Joe Shaver, left, and Charlie Ford compete in a meet earlier this season.
Troy Hyde/PCM Explorer
The PCM volleyball team recognized senior Addison Steenhoek for her 500 career digs after the Mustangs’ three-set victory over South Hamilton on Oct. 3. Steenhoek now has the school record for career digs with 587.
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PCM EXPLORER
The different types of breast cancer
The term “breast cancer” does not describe a single type of cancer, but rather several forms of a disease that can develop in areas of the breast. The American Cancer Society says breast cancer type is determined by the specific cells in the breast that become cancerous. There are many different types of breast cancer, and the medical community’s understanding of the disease is based on decades of research and millions of patients treated.
In 2001, Dr. Charles Perou first classified breast cancer into subtypes based on genomic patterns. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation says breast cancer is broadly divided into two types: non-invasive breast cancers and invasive breast cancers. Non-invasive breast cancers are called Stage 0 breast cancers or carcinomas in situ. These are thought to be the precursors to breast cancer, says the BCRF. While non-invasive breast cancers are not initially life-threatening, if left untreated, they can develop into invasive breast cancers, which can be fatal.
Here is a look at some of the different types of breast cancer.
• Invasive ductal carcinoma: This is the most common type of breast cancer, advises the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.®. Invasive ductal carcinoma accounts for 70 to 80 percent of all breast cancer diagnoses in women and men. This cancer forms in the milk ducts and spreads beyond.
• Invasive lobular carcinoma: This is the second most common type of breast cancer, accounting for 10 to 15 percent of diagnoses, says the BCRF. Invasive lobular carcinoma originates in the milk-pro -
Breast Cancer Awareness Month Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Millions of women across the globe are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women each year, with nearly three million new cases confirmed every 12 months.
duce feelings of depression, anxiety and more while also making women more capable of adapting to their situation.
ducing glands of the breast known as lobules. Tumors that form due to invasive lobular carcinoma more commonly grow in lines in the breast rather than in lumps, so they present differently on a mammogram.
• Inflammatory breast cancer: Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare, fast-growing type of breast cancer. The inflammatory name comes from the appearance of the skin of the breast. It looks red and inflamed, which is caused by breast cancer cells blocking lymph channels in the breast and skin, says Breast Cancer Now, a research and support charity.
• Tripe-negative breast cancer: The NBCF says a diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer means the three most common types of receptors known to cause most breast cancer growths are not present in the cancer tumor. These receptors are estrogen, progesterone and the HER2/neu gene. Since the tumor cells lack necessary receptors, certain treatments like hormone therapy and drugs that target these receptors are ineffective. Chemotherapy is still an option.
• Metastatic breast cancer: This type of breast cancer is also known as Stage IV breast cancer. Metastatic breast cancer originates in an area of the breast, but spreads (metastasizes) to another part of the body, most commonly the bones, lungs, brain, or liver, indicates BreastCancer.org.
Individuals hoping to learn more about breast cancer should be aware that there are various types of the disease. Which type an individual has is an important variable doctors consider as they plan a course of treatment.
Those figures are undoubtedly daunting, but they also tell a different story of perseverance and survival that can comfort women who have recently received a breast cancer diagnosis. According to the WCRF, in 2020 there were 7.8 million women worldwide who had lived for at least five years after their breast cancer diagnosis. Indeed, survival rates for breast cancer have improved dramatically in recent decades. Women often overcome the disease on account of their own personal resilience, but also by drawing on the experiences of others for inspiration and strength, namely through support groups. Women recently diagnosed with breast cancer may be surprised to learn just how beneficial support groups can be.
• Support groups can help women overcome the mental challenges of a diagnosis. A 2019 study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology examined the effectiveness of support groups for women with breast cancer and their caregivers. The study found that participation in a support group can help to re -
• Support group participation during treatment can have a lasting effect. A longitudinal study published in the journal Psychooncology in 2014 found that social support of breast cancer patients was positively predictive of better physical and mental health-related quality of life at three-year follow-up appointments for breast cancer patients. That means the benefits of joining a breast cancer support group are not only evident during treatment, but endure long after treatment as well.
• Support groups can be informative on multiple levels. Breastcancer.org notes that participation in a support group can teach women diagnosed with the disease how to become better advocates for themselves. That’s a notable benefit, as women confronting the mental health side effects of cancer treatment, including depression and anxiety, may feel as though they lack agency. In addition, by listening to others in a support group, women can identify new resources for understanding their disease and treatment plan.
Support groups can be invaluable for women diagnosed with breast cancer. Women can speak with their cancer care team to learn about local support groups.
Mureema Solberg, M.D. Family Practice
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Dr. Sydney Rice D.O. Family Medicine Obstetrics and Gynecology