PCM-10-24-2024 by Shaw Media

Local People. Local Stories.

4-H Halloween Trunk-or-Treat

Fun

Jasper County 4-H clubs welcome kids for spooky holiday event Oct. 20 at fairgrounds in Colfax

Veterans affairs commission adopts new rules to restore order and respect

Commissioners agree to adhere to

By Christopher Braunschweig

Explorer

In the military, the acronym ROE stands for “rules of engagement” and they are guidelines that soldiers use to determine when and how they can use force in a combat situation, but in a Jasper County Veterans Affairs Commission meeting it is the values and regulations board members adhere to retain order.

set of core values at public meetings

Commissioners on Oct. 9 unanimously approved the proposed rules and will work them into future meetings. The idea to add rules of engagement — or “rules of etiquette” as it was sometimes referred — was first presented by commission secretary Fred Chabot after recent meetings got heated and sparked backlash. These new rules state board members shall practice being on time, being prepared, active-

ly listen, not speak over others, limit side conversations, follow the agenda, stay on topic, respect colleagues and guests, turn off cellphones and allow public comment at the end of the meeting unless required prior.

Before the matter was approved by the commission, Chabot stated that perhaps “rules of engagement” was not the correct term to use and that a more accurate phrase would be “core values.” Ei-

ther way, Chabot and his fellow commissioners were in agreement that the rules be applied the meeting from now on.

When Chabot first pitched the idea, he likened the grounds rules to the mission, vision, goals, commitments and core values that the Newton school board had established back when he was first elected to governing body back in the 1990s. This practice is still in use today and is recited before

every board meeting.

“I think ground rules are a good guide for this group to have in terms of how we behave, how our staff behaves at these meetings and I think it would be appropriate to add a bullet point or two in regard to what our expectations are of attendees from the general public,” Chabot said at the September meeting.

At the October meeting, commissioner Katherine Thompson presented the rules that would eventually be adopted by her fellow commissioners.

ELECTION 2024

Jasper County Supervisor Candidate Q&As

Name: Jerry Chandler, Jr

Age: 60

Residence: Newton

Occupation: Business owner, Jerry Lee

Plumbing and Heating and Chandler

Construction

Office seeking: Jasper County Supervisor

1. Introduce/Reintroduce yourself to voters and explain why you are running.

Chandler: As a 1982 graduate of Newton High School, I am a lifelong resident of Jasper County and my children and one of my siblings live here as well. Jasper County is my home. I am a longtime business owner in the community, have a passion for common-sense public service and have previously served as the assistant maintenance director for the county. I am running for county supervisor because my know-how as a contractor and plumber, and my passion for fiscal responsibility, will bring new perspective to this important role in the county. It required a great deal of dedication for me to become an HVAC tech and a licensed journeyman plumber, but it also took hours and hours of hands-on experience. This combination of formal education and ability to

learn-in-the-moment uniquely positions me for this role.

2. Secondary roads maintenance is always on the minds of residents who drive on gravel roads. How do you feel about what the county has done for gravel roads? Are there any solutions or strategies you would propose?

Chandler: County workers are doing the best they can with the resources provided. We could invest more in training with the equipment to maintain gravel. Grading, leveling and maintaining roads is skilled work. Preventative maintenance is also something to be more attentive to. It’s less expensive to care for what we have than to replace it completely once it’s totally eroded.

3. For the past few months the county has been holding town hall meetings about the proposed $6.4 million bond vote featured on the ballot this coming November. What are your thoughts on the bond and project? Are you in favor of it or not?

Chandler: It’s not a simple answer. Objectively weighing wants versus needs is something we need to see more of at all levels of government. The list of needs that require financing within Jasper County is significant, so it’s important for our citizens to understand the impact of their vote and how it can influence the

Age: 67

Residence: Newton

Occupation: Entrepreneur and farmer Office seeking: Jasper County Supervisor

1. Introduce/Reintroduce yourself to voters and explain why you are running.

Ray: As a lifelong resident of Newton, Iowa, I’m excited to share my vision for our community as I run for county supervisor. After 67 years in this close-knit county, I’ve seen both our incredible potential and the challenges we face. My 40 years as a farmer and 35 years as a small business owner have instilled in me a deep appreciation for hard work and fiscal responsibility. Though I am not a politician nor will ever claim that I am, the reason I am running for county supervisor is because I believe every resident’s voice matters, regardless of their background. It’s crucial that our county prioritizes essential services while minimizing wasteful spending of hardworking taxpayers’ money. My key priorities include improving our rural roads to ensure safe travel, enhancing the visibility of our courthouse lawn to hon-

or our veterans and carefully scrutinizing how taxpayer dollars are spent. Together, we can make a meaningful difference for Jasper County!

Ray: I understand and have experienced the concerns residents have about the maintenance of our gravel roads. Since the change in management, it’s clear that proper grading has been overlooked. Further on these roads there are visible curbs that prevent effective water drainage. As a result there is pooling, which not only creates hazards for drivers but also accelerates road deterioration. This must be addressed. Additionally, the ditches need to be regularly cleared to facilitate proper drainage, maintain road integrity and contribute to a healthier environment for wildlife. To address the concerns about our gravel roads, I propose a comprehensive strategy focused on regular inspections and maintenance, improved grading techniques and proactive ditch maintenance. Establishing a schedule for regular inspections will ensure that grading is done correct-

Name: Randy L. Ray

PCM

Jamee A. Pierson/PCM Explorer

Worth Mentioning

Send your event to news@pcmexplorer.com

Events

at The Gathering Place

Friday, Oct. 25

• Piano with Jacque Robinson

Monday, Oct. 28

• 8am Coffee & Prayer with Pastor Ann

• 10am Video Exercise Class

Wednesday, Oct. 30

• 1pm “Get Fit, Move More!” with Amy S.

PC Lions host pancake breakfast

The Prairie City Lions Club will host its monthly pancake breakfast from 7 to 9 a.m. Saturday Oct. 26 at the Prairie City Community Building. The menu includes pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs and drink. All free will donations will support the PCM Trap Team this month.

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.

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.

I want Jasper County folks to prosper. That is why I’m running for Jasper County Supervisor. On the board of supervisors, I will work to keep the county’s levy rate low, continue to improve rural roads, see that emergency services are fully funded, build relationships with our communities, and improve the quality of life for our residents.

Explorer PCM

Club News

Grinnell Chapter Daughters of the

American Revolution

In September, the Grinnell Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution enjoyed a presentation by Ann Igoe, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Grinnell Historical Museum. Igoe’s talk was on the six Sulser sisters.

Ulrich and Margarita Sulser and their family came to Grinnell in 1877. Five of their six girls stayed in Grinnell for most of their lives and married farmers. The families were very active in the farming community and the life of Grinnell. Their husbands were among the organizers of the Farm Bureau in Poweshiek County and served as directors of local banks. The youngest daugh-

ter married and lived in Omaha where she became the first woman real estate agent in Omaha. The sisters and their families helped Grinnell grow and prosper and left a home-town legacy we can all appreciate.

The Grinnell Chapter meets nine times per year and is named after Josiah B. Grinnell, the founder of the city of Grinnell. Members come from Grinnell, Newton, Montezuma and surrounding communities. Chapter meetings are the second Saturday of the month March through July and September through December. Besides having educational and entertaining programs the chapter participates in service projects that have included glazing bowls for the Empty Bowls initiative, assembling “Pick-me-

up” jars for veterans, and providing seed packets for the Hindman Settlement School in Kentucky.

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to promote historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Its members are descended from the patriots who won American independence during the Revolutionary War. Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible to join.

For information about membership in DAR, contact Nancy Bender, registrar, at 641-2367065. Members are available to help you prove your lineage to a Revolutionary War patriot.

AED donated to The Gathering Place

MONROE

The Jasper County Sheriff’s office is happy to support The Gathering Place by donating an AED, a medical life-supporting device,

to the Monroe Senior and Community Center. Brad Shutts, Lt. Sheriff of Jasper County, was pleased to be able to donate the AED as many seniors and communi-

ty members attend the Gathering Place on a daily basis.

“Monroe has a great team of EMT/Fire Department volunteers, but adding the AED

medical device will bring more safety to Monroe” Shutss said.

The Gathering Place is very grateful that the community is working together.

Stars and Stripes Veterans Breakfast

The Jasper County Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is hosting a breakfast to honor the veterans of Jasper County. All veterans and their families are welcome from 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 14 to the second floor confer-

ence room (there is an elevator) at Newton DMACC, 600 N. Second Ave. W. Please RSVP by Nov. 1 to the Iowa State Extension Office and inform them many guests will be attending. Call the Jasper County

ISU Extension office at 641-7926433.

Come for breakfast, socialize with the RSVP volunteers and stop by the resource booths if you wish. This event is sponsored by the Doerring Family.

Free alert service offered to property owners in Jasper County

The Jasper County Recorder’s office is offering a new service known as Property Fraud Alert to Jasper County property owners. This fraud protection program is a free service that alerts subscribers to the possibility of fraudulent

• Improve rural roads: Work with the county engineer to continue to improve rural roads across the county

• Responsible taxation: I will fight to keep the county’s levy rate as low as possible while providing essential services

• Local economy and quality of life: Strategically expand housing and business opportunities to grow the county’s tax base

• Support county emergency services: Work to ensure our emergency services are properly staffed and funded

• Build relationships with communities: Collaborate with city councils to grow and strengthen Jasper County

activity affecting their property. Property fraud happens when a document is recorded that transfers property to someone else unbeknownst to the rightful owner. This can occur with Quit Claim Deeds or Power of Attorneys that allow signatory powers.

The sign-up process is free and easy. The program notifies subscribers when a document is recorded that has their name on it. Multiple variations of a name, in-

cluding business names can be entered. Users can choose from any of the following forms of notification: text, email or phone. (Please note text or phone alerts will have a 563-area code and a greeting from the County Recorder.) The program is available in English and Spanish.

The Property Fraud Alert program doesn’t guarantee that a crime will not occur. It allows property owners early notification of possible illegal activity.

Sign up for free at PropertyFraudAlert.com or by calling the Property Fraud Alert Hotline at 800-728-3858 or by visiting https://www. jasperia.org/recorder/. The Fidlar Property Fraud Alert system support team or the Recorder’s staff can assist those who are not comfortable using computers. Feel free to stop by the Jasper County Recorder’s office in Room 102 of the Jasper County Courthouse or call the office at 641792-5442.

needs.

4. Paramedic-certified staff at the sheriff’s office have responded to emergency calls throughout the county and assisting smaller EMS providers. How do you feel about the advanced life support program? What should its role be?

Chandler: Centralizing these services not only make fiscal sense, but it helps keep small towns safe and thriving. This is an important program, and we need to ensure we’re paying first-responders fair wages that acknowledge their vital expertise and service.

5. Property taxes and growing assessments continue to be an issue for residents. How should the county respond to these concerns? What would you like to see be

Explorer PCM

done to help residents better understand property taxes?

Chandler: Similar to my answer about our gravel roads, I like the preventative approach; controlled spending to keep property taxes low. But when increases are necessary, providing simple transparent explanations for why is important.

6. What sort of things is the county is good at and should continue doing? What are things you think the county can improve upon?

Chandler: There’s a lot we do well. I wouldn’t have lived here my whole life and raised my family here otherwise. The Advanced Life Support program is one of those things. It’s a creative way to collectively solve an issue that many towns couldn’t tackle on their own. However, there is room for improvement when it comes to wages for first responders who serve through that program. Our county could also improve accountability measures for economic

development strategies. Additionally, I’d like to see more accountability for decision-making by the county board of supervisors. Not everything should be a yes vote. I’d like to see more healthy disagreement, dialogue and foresight when evaluating proposals and completing priorities, and willingness to make tough decisions when it comes to spending. Those types of characteristics are reflective of strategic-leadership, and I’ll bring that to this role.

7. Despite Jasper County’s adjacency to Polk County, it is still a relatively rural region. How do you feel the county should respond to future developments? Are there rural characteristics you feel the county should preserve?

Chandler: Jasper County has three empty factories. Let’s continue to explore how to use or repurpose existing facilities to attract new businesses and jobs, while preserving farmland and maintaining the charm that makes Midwestern communi-

ties like ours unique. 8. Any final comments you’d like to make to voters?

Chandler: I’m a straightforward leader who doesn’t sugarcoat what needs to be said or done. I’ve run a successful business in Jasper County for nearly 25 years and take pride in giving my customers the truth, a fair price and a solid day of work for a fair wage. I have a strong moral compass, I am not afraid of being unpopular for the sake of doing the right thing and I won’t make promises if I don’t have the influence to follow through. I’m not afraid to ask tough questions. I believe in making difficult decisions by weighing wants and needs, and I won’t jeopardize what’s right in the long run for short-term financial gains. Jasper County is my home. It’s where I was raised, and it’s where I raised my children. I’ve poured into this community as a business owner and want to continue to invest as the county supervisor.

correctly, preventing pooling and facilitating proper drainage. Utilizing the equipment we have and training maintenance staff where needed will enhance the quality of our repairs. Additionally, clearing ditches regularly is essential to protect our roads from erosion. I would also create a system for residents to report road conditions directly to the county, allowing us to respond quickly and prioritize repairs based on community input. Finally, advocating for a budget that allocates sufficient resources specifically for road maintenance is crucial to enhancing safety and usability for all residents. Together, these strategies will significantly improve the condition of our secondary roads and meet the needs of our community.

Ray: While I appreciate the efforts behind the proposed $6.4 million bond for the new Liberty Avenue Yard project, I have significant reservations. The plan aims to create a new home for the engineer’s office and secondary roads department, which

is certainly needed, given the current shop’s deteriorating condition and space limitations. However, they do not have my vote currently. This is because I believe the project is over budget, and the planning process may not have fully accounted for cost-effective solutions. When comparing this proposal to the previous bond for the administration building, which passed with considerable community support, it’s essential to recognize that the context and scale have changed. The current estimate of $6.4 million raises questions about the efficiency and practicality of the plans. If more thorough and cost-conscious planning had been implemented initially, I would be more inclined to support this project. I am also concerned that, despite assurances that the bond will not raise property taxes, any potential shifts in other levies could still lead to financial strain on residents. The promise of keeping property taxes low is reassuring, but it requires careful monitoring to ensure transparency and accountability. Furthermore, while there are additional projects mentioned—such as a training facility for the sheriff’s office and improvements at local parks—these are not included in the current bond vote. This could lead to confusion about the overall funding needs, priorities for our community and ultimately more money spent. In summary, while I recognize the need

for a new facility for the secondary roads department, I cannot support the bond as it currently stands without a more cost-effective plan and a clearer vision for how these funds will be used, we must do things right the first time. It’s crucial that we ensure taxpayer dollars are utilized efficiently and transparently for the benefit of all residents in Jasper County. With me as the supervisor you can be assured I will monitor this.

the very role it has played and found success in. Additionally, the program can foster collaboration among various agencies, enhancing overall emergency response capabilities across Jasper County. Overall, I fully support the ALS program and believe it should remain focused on delivering high-quality care to residents, with an emphasis on accessibility, affordability and responsiveness in emergency situations.

5. Property taxes and growing assessments continue to be an issue for residents. How should the county respond to these concerns? What would you like to see be done to help residents better understand property taxes?

Ray: I believe the advanced life support (“ALS”) program is a vital resource for rural communities in Jasper County, particularly for those with limited ambulance services. Having paramedic-certified staff from the sheriff’s office respond to emergency calls significantly enhances access to immediate medical care, ensuring that residents receive the support they need during critical situations. While the program may not generate substantial revenue for the county, its primary focus should be on providing essential care rather than financial gain. The health of residents should always take precedence over budget concerns. If properly managed, the county’s budget could allow for a surplus that covers the costs of this program, reinforcing the idea that every resident’s medical needs are a priority. The role of the ALS program should be to serve as a reliable support system for smaller EMS providers, bridging the gaps in service availability and ensuring timely responses to emergencies. To my knowledge, this is

Ray: Addressing concerns about property taxes and growing assessments is crucial for maintaining the trust and well-being of Jasper County residents. The county should take a proactive approach to respond to these issues by ensuring transparency in the assessment process and actively engaging with the community. First, I would advocate for clearer communication regarding how property assessments are determined, how they impact taxes and ultimately how these funds were spent. This could involve hosting regular informational sessions and workshops where residents can learn about the assessment process, the factors that influence property values and how tax rates are set. Providing accessible resources, such as online guides and FAQs, can also help demystify the system as well as provide residents with an end-of-year fiscal form that shows what funds went where.

6. What sort of things is the county is good at and should continue doing? What are things you think the county can improve upon?

Ray: Jasper County has many strengths that it should continue to cultivate and expand. Additionally, the county’s commitment to public safety, highlight-

ed by initiatives such as the advanced life support program and the recent addition of support dogs to the sheriff’s office, highlighting its dedication to the health and safety of its residents. However, there are important areas for improvement. The first being enhancing communication about property taxes and assessments is essential, as many residents find these topics confusing and are uncertain about how their funds are utilized. Additionally, if we can curb spending, there’s potential to lower the tax rate, benefiting all residents. Improving infrastructure and services, particularly road maintenance, is another critical focus that must improve. Moreover, we must prioritize creating more employment opportunities for residents. By focusing on hiring local individuals first at the county, we can ensure that those who know our community best contribute to its growth. Lastly, addressing mental health resources and developing a clear plan to combat the opioid epidemic—especially the impact of fentanyl—are crucial steps forward for this county. By supporting those battling addiction and mental health challenges, we can foster a healthier, more resilient Jasper County.

Ray: As Jasper County navigates future developments, it’s essential to strike a balance between growth and preserving the rural character that makes the region unique. One way to respond is by implementing thoughtful planning that considers the needs and desires of the community. Engaging residents in discussions about potential developments will ensure that any changes align with

their values and vision for the future. Preserving the county’s rural characteristics is vital. This includes maintaining open spaces, agricultural lands and natural resources that contribute to the county’s charm and quality of life. Development should focus on enhancing community amenities—such as parks, trails and recreational areas—while ensuring that new housing and commercial projects blend harmoniously with the existing landscape. Ultimately, the county should embrace growth that enhances the community while protecting its rural identity. By prioritizing residents, sustainable practices and curbing spending, Jasper County can successfully navigate future developments while preserving the characteristics that has made it a great place to live these past 67 years and for many generations to come. 8. Any final comments you’d like to make to voters?

Ray: As a lifelong resident of Jasper County, I want to emphasize that I’m not a career politician. I’m a working father, grandfather and small business owner deeply committed to our community. For years, I’ve juggled the responsibilities of running my own lawn care and snow removal business while managing a family farm. This handson experience provides me with a unique perspective on the everyday challenges families face. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to connect with each of you. Your voices matter, and, together, we can shape the future of Jasper County. I am dedicated to being a transparent and responsive leader who prioritizes our community’s needs. Your vote is more than just a ballot; it’s a powerful opportunity to advocate for responsible spending, improved infrastructure, and enhanced services that truly reflect our residents’ values. Let’s work together to ensure that every resident feels heard and valued. Thank you for your support!

Father commissions won to 2nd lieutenant, 22 years later, father promotes son to colonel

The apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree. Both Ken Madden and his son Sean, of rural Crawfordsville, graduated from the University of Iowa, and both participated in ROTC — Reserve Officer Training Corps. In 2002 Colonel Ken Madden had the honor of commissioning his son Sean, upon graduation from the U of I, to 2nd Lieutenant. Father Ken is on the Alumni Board at the University of Iowa and, occasionally is asked to assist in the commissioning of new officers. In this instance he jumped at the opportunity to do the honors for his son.

22 years later, on Oct. 11, 2024, Retired Colonel Ken Madden promoted Sean to Colonel at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Father Ken couldn’t be more

Supporting Christina Bohannon

Ads against Christina Bohannon say she is too “dangerous and disturbing” and even wants to “abolish prisons and police.” Law enforcement officers support her though. I think they meant that she wants to protect an individual’s rights.

I’ve gone to her rallies and she also wants these:

1. Make Iowa Number 1 in Education and give the kids lunch even in the summer.

2. Bring down the price of healthcare and prescription drugs, create jobs, improve our infrastructure and reduce the national debt.

3. Clean up our waterways and help farmers invest in sustainable farming.

4. Have universal background checks for firearms, no guns for domestic abusers and no illegal gun trafficking.

5. Have a Farm Bill that supports farmers not big cooperations.

6. Reform Immigration and get the bipartisan security bill passed

7. Restore Roe v. Wade and restore reproductive freedom

8. Protect Medicare and Social SecurityThis all seems good to me.

I don’t see anything that is “dangerous and disturbing.”

James C. Folk, M.D. Iowa City

SHARE YOUR VIEW

Letters to the PCM Explorer will be edited for libel, grammar and length and should not exceed 400 words. We reserve the right to shorten letters and reject those deemed libelous, in poor taste or of a personal nature. Include your full name, address and a daytime phone number for verification. Unsigned editorials are the opinion of the PCM Explorer as an institution. Signed columns as well as letters to the editor and editorial cartoons represent the personal opinion of the writer or artist. Submit letters to news@ pcmexplorer.com or Newton Daily News, P.O. Box 967, Newton, Iowa 50208

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

REGARDING THE NOV. 5 ELECTION ARE DUE BY NOON, OCT. 30.

pleased, nor son Sean happier.

But the anomaly doesn’t end there. In 2007, both Ken and Sean were stationed in Iraq, Sean with the Iraqi National Police and Ken with the CIA. It was Thanksgiving Day and Ken had invited Sean to join him for Thanksgiving dinner. They had just sat down when they were bombarded with insurgent mortars. Ken and Sean ran to a bomb shelter, and sat there while their Thanksgiving dinner, with mashed potatoes and gravy, got cold

and the dessert warm. Not too many fathers and sons can say they shared a bomb shelter on Thanksgiving Day, and had so much to be thankful for.

Actually, Sean Madden is writing the latest chapter in a long family legacy. It started back before the United States was even a country. Both sides of the Madden family, maternal and paternal, fought with George Washington in the Battle of Manhattan and Long Island, New York.

Both sides of the Madden family fought in the Civil War, World War I and II, and the Vietnam War. Sean’s Uncle Bob, on his mother’s side, did two tours in Vietnam, and conducted the ceremony where Sean’s dad, Ken, promoted Sean to Colonel. It’s a family affair.

Sean’s military career started with his family’s guacamole. Yep. Following graduation from college, and as a new 2nd Lieutenant, Sean was in Air Defense Artillery School. The battalion commander invited the new Lieutenants to a “Meet and Greet.” Sean thought he should take something.

So he went to the commissary, bought the ingredients, and made his family’s world-famous guacamole. (He was the only 2nd Lieutenant who brought anything.) The battalion commander’s wife loved it. Sean happened to mention to her that he would like to volunteer for duty in Iraq. Boom. Within a month of graduating from Officer Basics School, Sean was in Qatar.

In his 22 years as an Army officer, Sean has been deployed four times. He was told by a General that the way to make rank in the Army is to seek assignments that are challenging. When they are offered, volunteer. He has done this and his military career has been meteoric. Sean is at the Army War College now, and following his promotion to Colonel, by his father, he should be back at the Pentagon, fulfilling the current chapter of a long family legacy.

Each generation has gone to war, Sean Madden’s generation is no exception. Contact Curt Swarm at curtswarm@yahoo.com.

Farm to school movement has exploded across the United States

By Sandra Renner Chief People Officer

Farm to School is a win for students, a win for farmers, and a win for communities. It strengthens our food system and our local economies, and it provides opportunities for students to develop new skills, such as agricultural or livestock production, and marketing, business, and entrepreneurship.

Over the past decade, the farm to school movement has exploded across the U.S., reaching millions of students in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and U.S. territories. School gardens, school farms, high tunnels, and farm field trips have

expanded the classroom and hands-on learning for students.

Students and farmers alike are growing local food for cafeteria trays, and farm to school practices help children learn about where food comes from and make healthier choices while also creating new markets for local and regional farmers. Farm to school also helps more students explore careers in food systems, farming, and agriculture to which they might not otherwise be exposed.

Many states celebrate National Farm to School Month with special events, such as holding local food tastings like the Great Apple Crunch, launching a Harvest of the Month program, intro -

ducing local meats and proteins, or organizing a weeklong series of activities. These special events are providing even more opportunities to get involved this October and bring the farm right into school.

Find out how your state celebrates by exploring the National Farm to School Month Events Calendar at farmtoschoolmonth.org#events.

Established in 1973, the Center for Rural Affairs is a private, nonprofit organization working to strengthen small businesses, family farms and ranches, and rural communities through action oriented programs addressing social, economic, and environmental issues.

Misinformation, disinformation, hate speech and newspeak

By Thomas L. Knapp

As a free speech fundamentalist, I’m not seeing much of value on offer from either Democrats or Republicans in this year’s presidential election. While I’m not especially surprised, I am somewhat unsettled by just how open both campaigns are about their desire to suppress speech that reflects negatively on either their ideas or on their candidates as people, sometimes while cosplaying as “free speech” supporters.

I’m not unsettled because I want to shout “fire” in a crowded theater (unless there IS a fire), or use racial slurs, or convince you that bad actors with space lasers are controlling the weather, or whatever.

Nor is it that I want to hear other people doing those particular things, although I do -- because it tells me who those people are and that I shouldn’t trust them with anything, especially political power.

It’s because I’ve read George Orwell’s most popular work, “1984.”

“The purpose of Newspeak,” Orwell wrote in that novel’s appendix, “was not

only to provide a medium of expression for the world-view and mental habits proper to the devotees of Ingsoc [the single party ruling his fictional country of Oceania], but to make all other modes of thought impossible. It was intended that ... a heretical thought — that is, a thought diverging from the principles of Ingsoc — should be literally unthinkable, at least so far as thought is dependent on words.”

Attempts to control language are attempts to control your mind, and censorship is the oldest tool of that trade.

It’s all good and well to inveigh against “misinformation,” “disinformation” and “hate speech.” But usually when a politician does so, he or she has plans to censor particular words, thoughts, and ideas, either cynically in a raw grab for power or naively in the false belief that Bad Thoughts can be banished by force of law.

I call that belief false because history says it’s never ENTIRELY successful. Even the world’s most totalitarian regimes have always failed to keep their subjects’ minds in a state of continuing pristine belief, mentally (or even vocally) toeing the

regime’s line on every subject. But even partial success in such a project costs innocent people their freedoms and their lives.

Forbidding you to say X is an attempt to keep me from hearing X, and to stop both of us from thinking, or acting on, X. Even if X is untrue, that’s a conclusion we’re entitled to reach for ourselves on the basis of open expression and debate. Reaching it for us forcibly and without the ability to appeal isn’t a job we should ever entrust to government.

A little bit of censorship, even for the “best” reasons, is like being a little bit pregnant — there’s no such thing. We’re free to speak our minds, or we aren’t. Any supposed “in between” spot depends entirely on whether those in power agree with what we think ... and that’s not freedom. If a politician wants to tell you what you may or may not say, that politician isn’t your friend.

Thomas L. Knapp is director and senior news analyst at the William Lloyd Garrison Center for Libertarian Advocacy Journalism

GUEST COLUMN

Curt Swarm

Empty Nest

The PCM

Undefeated District Champ Mustangs Set To Host First Round Districts

This week the PCM varsity football team won their district with a record of eight wins and no losses, completing an undefeated regular season. To get there, they had to beat all the teams in district 2A-6. The teams in the district include West Marshall, Jesup, Union Community, Iowa Falls-Alden, and Vinton-Shellsburg. The PCM Mustangs having beat all of them in their district guarantees them a good seed in the playoffs. With the Mustangs other wins out of district against Sigourney Keota, Pella Christian, and Nevada, the Mustangs are ranked first in 2A for the state. Junior kicker Dominic Witt shared his thoughts on winning the district. “I think it gets our team more ready and conditioned,” Witt states. When asked what the team needed to do to get ready for the playoffs, he replied, “I think we just need to stay focused; we need to practice more and stop ourselves from getting carried away.” With the top seed, the Mustangs will have home field advantage in the first round. This should give the team the help they need to advance through the first round. Winning the district is also a personal accomplishment for the players. When asked about how this helped Witt, he went on to say, “I think it’ll be really important for me, especially just getting my name out there, and junior year especially is important for like high school and to get into college because people will be watching you more.” Over the course of the season, the team has an average score of 50.3 points per game. The top scorer for receiving is #6 Riley Graber with 18 receptions for 416 yards and eight touchdowns. The top scorer for rushing is #0 Adrien Robbins with 117 carries for 1285 yards with an average of 11 yards per carry, 17 touchdowns, and a season-long run of 74 yards. The biggest point-win deficit of the season came against Pella Christian, in which PCM won at home 59-7. Quarterback Gavin VanGorp threw for 100 yards and a touchdown; he also had two rushing touchdowns. Running back Adrien Robbins had nine carries for 143 yards and three touchdowns. With this record season, the team looks to top it off with a trip to the dome for a possible championship title. PCM last won a championship in the 2018 season when they had a record of 13-0. The team has a great chance to repeat what the 2018 team did that season. The first game of the playoffs for the Mustangs starts tomorrow night, October 25 at 7 p.m. with your Mustangs hosting!

PCM’s 2024-25 Forgien Exchange Students

Ines Azzini

Ines is a foreign exchange student from Italy and is currently staying with the Buckingham family. She is excited to meet new people, make friends, and fully embrace her experience. She loves the school spirit and extracurricular activities offered here at PCM. Her favorite food here in America is cookies, even though she misses the pizza and lasagna from home the most.

Kenna Grier Staff Writer

Isabella Hass

Abdulvahid Mamasaliev

Abdulvahid (Vahid) is our male foreign exchange student this year from Kyrgyzstan, he is staying with the Knight family. His favorite thing about America is the nature and cornfields and he is looking forward to making new friends. He misses his friends and family most from home. His favorite food from America is chicken enchiladas.

Isabella Hass is a foreign exchange student this year from Brazil. She is staying with the Fairbanks family. Her favorite things about America so far are the food, specifically brownies and cookies, and school. Even though she misses her family and friends, she is looking forward to traveling and getting out of her comfort zone.

Meet a Mustang

Landon Ridgway 10

Parents: Matt Ridgway

Employer: Lefevbre Mechanic

Extracurricular Activities: Football & Basketball

3 Words to Describe Yourself: Goofy, Hardworking, & Enthusiastic Favorite Class: English 10

A Piece of Advice you wish to give your younger self: Be Happy Best High School Memory: Freshmen Basketball Dream Job: Something Sports Related

Levi Edgett 10

Nickname: Lever

Parents: Michelle & Greg Edgett

Extracurricular Activities: Esports, Basketball, & Racing

3 Words to Describe Yourself: Funny, Kind, & Smart

Favorite Class: World History

A Piece of Advice you wish to give your younger self: “It’s the long, hard days that make the short, easy ones possible.” -Levi Edgett Best High School Memory: Filming Homecoming activities for TTV Dream Job: Nascar Driver

The musical this year is The Addams Family. This is the first musical we’ve done in three years so it’s going to be big. Auditions for the production were due by September 6th. I auditioned for the role of Morticia and Wednesday Addams with the song Love is Blind from Young Frankenstein. To find this song I looked up ideas for the role I wanted and it gave me a ton of options. I listened to all of them and found one I liked and practiced it almost every day before school. Eventually it was the day of auditions and I was so nervous. We had to read a monologue given to us after school and I only got 20 minutes to look at it so I was scared for how I’d do. Eventually I had to audition but after it was over I was very confident. I did so good. The wait for the cast list was the worst part; I kept second guessing how I did because so many people auditioned. After school my friend and I went straight to the choir room. We pushed through the crowd and I looked at Morticia and didn’t see my name. I don’t think I’ve ever been more scared then I was in that moment. When I looked further I saw my name next to Wednesday and I was really excited. A lot of other people were upset with the role they got so I didn’t want to seem too excited about getting a role when some people didn’t even get one. It didn’t sink in until later that night that I got a lead role and I was over the moon. At our first practice we spoke all our lines and listened to all the songs. I was very intimidated. Normally I’m good at singing lower but the songs needed me to sing very high. I started coming in before school to work on my songs with our choir director and eventually I got good at it. We started blocking scenes almost right away steering clear of the big songs. Practices have begun to dwindle down and so has time to pull everything together so the directors have started to have optional Saturday practices to work on individual songs and scenes. We’ve just recently started adding props, ordering our costumes, and running our acts. It’s all starting to smooth out and sound great. By the time the show comes around I’m confident we’ll have it all worked out. Be sure to come support us on November 15, 16, and 17!

Rylee Parsons Print Editor

Levi Edgett Staff Writer

Hall closed 8am Coffee & Devotions at TGP 10am Video Exercise Class 11:30am Congregate Meals at TGP Free Parenting Class at TGP 5:30pm PC Park Board Monroe City Council 7pm PC Fire Dept, PC City Hall Good News Club after school at ME and PCE 12 9:30am Supervisors, Jasper County Courthouse 11:30am Congregate Meals at TGP 6pm Mon American Legion 6:30pm Kiwanis, Mon City

VETERANS DAY No School

5:30pm V, G WR at Carlisle 6:30pm PCM FCA Huddle at HS

PCM girls win first-ever title at HOIAC meet

COLO — What the PCM girls cross country team did on Oct. 15 was quite impressive.

But based on recent Heart of Iowa Athletic Conference results, the Mustang boys were maybe even more impressive.

After coming up just short last season, the PCM girls claimed the conference championship at Hickory Grove Park.

The Mustangs boys came into the meet having placed as high as sixth in the past five seasons but climbed all the way up to second this fall.

The PCM girls placed four in the top 15 and three Mustangs were in the top 10 of the boys’ 5K race.

Class 2A No. 11 PCM won the girls’ championship with 56 points. That was four points better than 2A No. 15 Roland-Story (60).

The rest of the top five featured Nevada (70), 1A No. 13 Grand View Christian (91) and West Marshall. South Hamilton (146) and Greene County (200) completed the seven-team field. Saydel and Perry had incomplete rosters.

The Lady Norse were in the lead after the first three scoring runners, but PCM rallied with a stronger back of the lineup.

Lila Milani led the Mustangs in seventh with a time of 21 minutes, 1.5 seconds. Darbey DeRaad finished 10th in 21:25.8, Abi Teeter was 12th in 21:44.6 and Annie Ford took 14th in 21:52. Milani, DeRaad and Teeter all earned medals.

It was Milani’s second straight top-10 finish at the HOIAC meet.

The final scoring runner was Bailey Wheeler (22:21.7) in 21st. Raegan Vannoy (22:25) and Paiten Rumbaugh (22:40.3) were non-scoring runners in 26th and 31st, respectively.

The other non-scoring runners were Ali Hilsabeck (23:10.9), Kaitlyn Fagg (23:14.4) and Lexi Fagg (23:19.9) in 31st, 32nd and 34th, respectively.

Class 2A No. 6 Dalaney Eldridge of West Marshall won the girls’ 5K race in 19:53. Lydia Ives of Grand View Christian was the runner-up in 20:01.4.

The PCM girls won their first conference title ever. The Mustangs were second twice and third twice in the last five seasons and didn’t even have a full team from 2005-2010.

Ford was six spots better than Roland-Story’s fourth runner and Wheeler came in three positions in front of the Lady Norse’s fifth runner.

The Mustang boys were sig-

nificantly better this season than in any of the last five.

PCM placed just one runner in the top 30 and finished seventh last season and only one runner was in the top 40 the season before when the Mustangs were eighth.

Kash Fischer, Coby DeRaad and Owen Osterhaus were in the top eight and brought home medals on Oct. 15.

PCM volleyball splits final two conference contests

DES MOINES — A trio of double-doubles and career nights from those Mustangs led the PCM volleyball team to a four-set win over Grand View Christian on Oct. 15.

The Mustangs started strong and finished stronger during a 25-21, 23-25, 27-25, 25-17 road victory in Heart of Iowa Athletic Conference action.

PCM was powered by 21 aces and seven blocks. Tori Lindsay, Rebecca De Vries and Libby Winters all had double-doubles to lead the way.

Lindsay finished with 36 assists, a career-best nine aces and 14 digs, De Vries collected a career-most 19 digs and

chipped in 13 kills, four aces and two blocks and Winters produced 10 kills, 15 digs and two aces.

The Mustangs (15-10, 4-4 in the conference) also got a career-best eight kills and five digs from Claire Van Wyk and Addyson Pederson put down six kills and tallied two blocks.

Addison Steenhoek finished with a career-most 33 digs, three aces and five assists, Addi Hudnut registered 12 digs and Lillian Humpal contributed six kills, three digs and two aces.

The 33 digs from Steenhoek matched her single-match school record set earlier this season.

The Mustangs were 81-of98 in serves with 21 aces. De Vries served 22-of-23 and Van

Wyk’s kill efficiency was .273. Grand View Christian fell to 8-20 and 2-5 in the conference.

Greene County 3, PCM 1 JEFFERSON — A slow start plagued the Mustangs during a road HOIAC matchup against Greene County on Oct. 17.

PCM got a career-best 39 assists from Lindsay, a career-high 15 kills from Winters and a career-most 10 kills from Pederson but the Rams downed the Mustangs 25-11, 21-25, 25-19, 25-21.

PCM was 70-of-77 in serves with three aces in its regular season finale. The Mustangs had a kill efficiency of .153. Lindsay and Winters produced double-doubles to lead

PCM. Lindsay added 14 digs and two aces to her 39 assists and Winters collected 10 digs and two blocks to go with her 15 kills.

De Vries finished with 15 digs, seven kills, two assists and two blocks, Steenhoek tallied 17 digs and two assists and Humpal chipped in 14 digs and five kills.

Peyton Lathrum registered five kills and five digs, Pederson had two blocks, Van Wyk put down three kills and Hudnut posted five digs. Humpal served 13-of-13, Winters was 14-of-15 and Hudnut finished 9-of-10. Pederson’s kill efficiency was .400 and Winters had a kill efficiency of .333.

The Rams improved to 1213 and 5-3 in the HOIAC.

PCM football stays unbeaten, routs Iowa Falls-Alden

IOWA FALLS — A fast start and 203 rushing yards propelled the Class 2A No. 2 PCM football team to a 48-0 win over Iowa Falls-Alden on Oct. 18.

PCM completed its first undefeated regular season since 2020 and its third in at least the past 17 seasons.

The Mustangs posted their first shutout of the season and outscored their eight opponents 400-57. They led 28-0 after one quarter and 48-0 at halftime.

Gavin Van Gorp threw for 190 yards and four scores and rushed for another touchdown and Adrien Robbins added 174 total yards and two TDs to lead the Mustangs. PCM (8-0, 5-0 in the district) out-gained the Cadets 440137. The Mustangs held Iowa Falls-Alden to 2.1 yards per carry in the win.

The Mustangs open postseason play against Des Moines Christian (4-4) at 7 p.m. on Oct. 25 in Monroe. The Lions are on a three-game losing streak.

Van Gorp opened the scoring with a 6-yard TD run with 10:15 to go in the first quarter. He added TD passes of 38 yards and 55 yards to Riley Graber and Robbins and Keegan Fenton scored from 4 yards out late in the first to make it 28-0. Van Gorp connected with Graber one more time for a 35-yard TD pass and then completed

a 34-yard touchdown strike to Gavin Steenhoek

Robbins capped the scoring with a 21-yard TD run. He finished with 119 yards and one touchdown on 15 carries and had the one catch for a 55-yard TD. Robbins ranks second in 2A with 1,404 rushing yards. His 18

Submitted Photo

The PCM girls cross country team claimed its first conference title during the Heart of Iowa Athletic Conference meet on Oct. 15 at Hickory Grove Park. The Class 2A No. 11 Mustangs edged No. 15 Roland-Story by four points.

Submitted Photo

The PCM boys cross country team finished second in the Heart of Iowa Athletic Conference meet on Oct. 15. The Mustangs had their best finish in at least the past decade at Hickory Grove Park.

PCM Explorer

Lindsay De Vries Winters Pederson

in the second.

rushing TDs rank third and his 10.6 yards per carry average leads 2A. Van Gorp finished 8-of-10 through the air for 190 yards and four scores. He also rushed for 57 yards and one TD on five carries.

PCM Explorer

Corey Meints/Iowa Falls Times-Citizen PCM senior Sawyer Bouwkamp looks for running room against Iowa Falls-Alden on Oct. 18. The Mustangs finalized their undefeated regular season with a 48-0 road win over the Cadets and open the playoffs against Des Moines Christian on Oct. 25.

Corey Meints/Iowa Falls Times-Citizen

PCM junior Evan Wendt tackles Iowa Falls-Alden’s Karsen Kalous (14) as PCM senior Trenner Van Dyke closes in during the Mustangs’ 48-0 road win on Oct. 18. Class 2A No. 2 PCM takes an 8-0 record into the playoffs.

Explorer PCM

CONTINUED FROM 7

Van Gorp is currently tied for the 2A-lead with 30 total touchdowns and ranks second with 21 passing TDs. His completion percentage of 79.3 leads the class.

Graber grabbed three catches for 77 yards and two scores, Steenhoek hauled in three catches for 43 yards and one TD and Trigg Steenhoek had one catch for 38 yards.

Graber’s 10 receiving TDs rank second in 2A and Gavin Steenhoek’s seven receiving touchdowns are tied for fifth.

Jaxson Straight gained 30 yards on six carries, Harlan Shannon had one catch for 15 yards and Cutler VandeLune’s one catch went for nine yards.

Cross Country

CONTINUED FROM 7

The Mustangs didn’t have enough runners for a team score three seasons ago.

Fischer led the way in third with a time of 17:30.9, Coby DeRaad finished seventh in 17:50.6 and Osterhaus placed eighth with a time of 17:53.3. It was Coby DeRaad’s second straight top-10 finish at the HOIAC meet.

Rylan Edgington (19:16) and Kolby Clark (19:21.2) were the final scoring runners in 27th and 32nd, respectively.

Charlie Ford (19:22.7) and Joe Shaver (19:24.6) were non-scoring runners in 33rd and 34th, respectively. The other non-scoring runners were Wyatt Vannoy (21:10.2), Kaliber Fry (22:47) and Zach Richards (22:47.5) in 62nd, 75th and 76th, respectively.

Class 2A No. 26 Corben Lucchesi of Roland-Story was the boys’ winner in 17:08.6 and Nevada’s Dawson Lemke was the runner-up in 17:26.2.

Class 3A No. 19 Nevada won the boys’ title with 35 points. The Cubs placed four scoring runners in the top nine and all seven were in the first 25.

PCM (74) defeated Roland-Story (85) by 11 despite not having the services of varsity regular Gabe Nessa. Greene County (114), West Marshall (117), Grand View Christian (130), Perry (194), South Hamilton (212) and Saydel (219) completed the nine-team field.

Chase Wagaman was 2-of-4 through the air for 47 yards.

Brevin DeRaad led the PCM defense with five tackles, while Fenton, VandeLune and Trenner Van Dyke contributed three tackles. Kaiden Valcore recovered a fumble.

Dominic Witt was 6-of-6 in PATs and booted four of his eight kickoffs for touchbacks. He leads 2A with 49 touchbacks.

Iowa Falls-Alden (2-6, 2-3) was led by Andrew Bartlett’s 51 passing yards, 32 rushing yards and 4.5 tackles and one sack on defense.

Rebecca De Vries

PCM senior Rebecca De Vries leads the Mustangs with 177 kills this fall. She also ranks second on the squad with 33 blocks and 43 aces and has dished out 11 assists. Her kill efficiency of .205 ranks second on the squad, too. PCM’s 15 wins are the

Corey Meints/ Iowa Falls Times-Citizen

PCM senior Brevin DeRaad tackles Iowa Falls-Alden’s Andrew Bartlett (12) during their district contest on Oct. 18. DeRaad led the Mustangs with five tackles.

Van Gorp

Troy Hyde/PCM Explorer

PCM juniors Paiten Rumbaugh (852) and Raegan Vannoy (854) compete in a meet earlier this season. The Mustangs won their first-ever Heart of Iowa Athletic Conference girls’ cross country team title on Oct. 15. PCM was second twice and third twice in the previous five seasons.

Troy Hyde/PCM Explorer

PCM freshman Rylan Edgington helped the PCM boys cross country team finish second in the Heart of Iowa Athletic Conference meet on Oct. 15. The Mustangs were outside the top five in each of the past five seasons.

Fischer

Explorer PCM

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Debunking certain myths surrounding breast cancer

Events like National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the Susan G. Komen® MORE THAN PINK Walk® have been integral to raising awareness about the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women across the globe. Though such campaigns and events have helped many women better understand breast cancer and their own risk for the disease, certain myths surrounding breast cancer persist. Such myths are not harmless and can, in fact, lead to unsafe outcomes that jeopardize women’s health.

Questions about breast cancer should always be directed to a physician. Though physicians may not have all the answers, they remain useful allies in the fight against a disease that the World Cancer Research Fund International reports will be discovered in roughly three million women this year. As women seek more knowledge of breast cancer, it can be just as important to recognize some common myths surrounding the disease.

Myth: MRIs are more effective than mammograms.

The National Breast Cancer Coalition notes that no evidence exists to support the assertion that a magnetic resonance imaging exam is a more effective screening test for breast cancer than a mammogram. The NBCC acknowledges that an MRI can be an effective diagnostic tool when doctors suspect something is wrong. However, the NBCC advises against using MRI to screen for breast cancer since it is more likely to yield a false-positive result than a mammogram. Indeed, the National Breast Cancer Foundation identifies mammography as the gold standard for the early detection of breast cancer.

Myth: Breast size and breast cancer risk are connected.

This myth typically suggests

breast cancer is more common in women with large breasts. The NBCF notes there is no connection between breast size and breast cancer risk. Breast density, not size, may be associated with a greater risk for breast cancer. The Mayo Clinic notes dense breast tissue refers to the ways breast tissue appears on a mammogram. Women with dense breasts, which the National Cancer Institute notes affects roughly half of all women over age 40, are at higher risk for breast cancer because the dense tissue makes screening for the disease more difficult. But breast size and breast density are not one and the same.

Myth: Most breast cancer patients have a family history of the disease.

The NBCC notes that roughly 15 to 20 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer report a family history of the disease. Assuming only those with a family history are vulnerable to breast cancer gives women with no such background a false sense of security, which may discourage them from taking measures to lower their risk.

Myth: All breast lumps are cancerous.

The NBCF indicates only a small percentage of breast lumps end up being cancerous. Lumps should never be ignored, and should be reported to a physician immediately. But it’s important to avoid jumping to conclusions after finding a breast lump. A clinical breast exam can determine what’s behind the lump, and women who discover a lump should remain calm until such an exam is conducted.

These are just some of the many myths circulating about breast cancer. More information about the disease can be found at nationalbreastcancer.org.

— Metro Creative

How breast cancer can affect mental health

Breast cancer is often viewed through the lens of the physical challenges the disease poses. Women undergoing breast cancer treatment often confront fatigue, and many deal with physical changes to their bodies, some of which may be permanent. Though the physical challenges associated with breast cancer are significant, the disease also can take a toll on women’s mental health.

Each woman’s experience with breast cancer is unique. However, women with breast cancer may confront many of the same mental health challenges that others before them have dealt with. Recognition of the effects a breast cancer diagnosis can have on mental health is vital as women work to overcome their disease and go on to live long, healthy lives.

• Depression: The American Cancer Society reports that roughly one in four people diagnosed with breast cancer experience depression. Breastcancer.org notes that symptoms of depression include feelings of intense sadness; loss of interest in activities once enjoyed; feelings of extreme irritability or restlessness; isolating oneself or being unable to accept help; and lack of motivation to perform daily activities, among

others. Breastcancer.org notes that women diagnosed with metastatic or triple-negative breast cancer might be more likely to experience depression than those informed they have other forms of the disease. Women who experience early menopause brought on by breast cancer treatments and those concerned about infertility also may be more likely to develop depression.

• Anxiety: The organization Living Beyond Breast Cancer® notes more than 40 percent of people diagnosed with breast cancer experience anxiety. Anxiety brought on by a breast cancer diagnosis can be triggered at any time, including upon learning one has the disease, during treatment and even after treatment has concluded. Anxiety levels may increase while waiting for test results, anticipating the start of treatment and even during follow-up treatments. Feelings of being worried all the time; worries shifting from one problem to another; restlessness; difficulty concentrating; and difficulty falling or staying asleep are some common symptoms of anxiety, according to LBBC.

• Memory loss: Breast Cancer Now reports that women may feel more forgetful during and after breast cancer treat-

ment, noting this is often referred to as “chemo brain” or “brain fog.” Even women who are not receiving chemotherapy as part of their breast cancer treatment can experience memory loss, the cause of which remains a mystery. The fatigue and difficulty sleeping many women experience during breast cancer treatment may contribute to memory loss. Breast Cancer Now notes keeping a diary, writing things down and planning ahead are some ways to overcome the memory loss associated with breast cancer.

• Addiction: Breastcancer. org notes that some of the medicines prescribed during breast cancer treatment can be addictive. For example, opioids to treat pain and additional prescription medications to address anxiety, which can include Xanax and Valium, can be addictive. Taking only prescribed doses can reduce the likelihood of addiction. Women undergoing treatment for breast cancer may experience various side effects that affect their mental health. Women are urged to speak openly with their physicians and request help combatting any mental health complications that arise before, during and after treatment. — Metro Creative