JCT-11-27-2025

Serving Colfax

Mingo

Western Jasper County

TREE-MENDOUSLY ENTERTAINING

Jasper County Historical Museum to have more than 200 trees on display for fifth annual holiday event

By Christopher Braunschweig

For the past two years, the Tree-mendous Christmas Experience has attracted more than 1,000 people to the Jasper County Historical Museum in Newton, and the dedicated volunteers — who spend countless hours decorating the museum with holiday decorations and hundreds of trees — want to continue that trend.

Every Saturday and Sunday from Dec. 6 until Dec. 28, the museum at 1700 S. 15th Ave. W. will open its doors to visitors to see the more than 200 decorated trees on display. Even the exhibits don Christmas decorations! Every nook and cranny is covered in festive trimmings and ornaments.

Visitors can visit the museum

1-8 p.m. Saturdays and 1-4 p.m. Sundays. The museum will also be open 1-4 p.m. Christmas Day, allowing families a chance to get out of the house for some fresh air and a relaxing outing to a one-of-a-kind spectacle founded right here in Jasper County.

Admission to the Tree-mendous Christmas Experience is free, but free will donations are very much accepted. The funds go directly to the museum.

Group options are available by calling ahead at 641-792-9118.

In 2023, the Tree-mendous Christmas Experience recorded 1,300 guests. The following year it brought in 1,400 visitors, which organizers were pretty happy with considering there were a number of bad weather days. Visitors in 2024 came from 50 different towns in Iowa and 23 different states.

Opioid settlement committee awards $144K to agencies in Jasper County

Recipients are using funds to help people with substance use disorders

By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune

Four organizations in Jasper County that help individuals with substance use disorders were collectively awarded more than $144,000 by the county’s opi -

oid settlement committee. The board of supervisors approved the appropriations in a 3-0 vote during their Nov. 18 meeting at the courthouse.

Becky Pryor, administrator of the Jasper County Health Department, gave a brief presentation

about the organizations and the money they would be receiving.

Capstone Behavioral Healthcare was awarded $70,000 for justice-involved substance treatment and $150,000 for a new

Getting creative with giving

The Jasper County 4-H Festival of Trees is a fun, unique way for kids to give back

By Jamee A. Pierson Jasper County Tribune

For almost two decades, the Jasper County 4-H Festival of Trees has called the Jasper County Courthouse home. But the festival’s origins are a little further west at the Jasper County Fairgrounds.

Originally hosted by the Jasper County Fair Board in Colfax, the event coincided with Colfax Country Christmas, the yearly holiday celebration in the community. As the years passed, 4-H clubs took over the organization of the festival and in 2006 it moved to the county seat.

“It is a good fit, the building is so pretty,” Iowa State University Extension and Outreach County Youth Coordinator Stacey Wilson said.

“We do get a lot of compliments and positive

comments on the festival. We like to bring to light that 4-H is not just for farm and rural kids. There is community service involved, life skills involved, record keeping and all kinds of communication skills. This lets the public see all of the citizenship that 4-H clubs and kids do.”

While decorating trees to circle the first and second floors of the courthouse might not seem like a community service activity, the 4-H groups have turned it into a community-centered giving opportunity. Each club decorates the trees to reflect a charity or nonprofit it has selected to give back to for the season.

“Clubs pick a charity or nonprofit to support then pick items to either put on the tree to decorate with,” Wilson said.

Supervisors OK hiring of conservation admin assistant/naturalist

Talsma voted no, saying the board needs to consider

By Christopher Braunschweig Jasper County Tribune

Jasper County Conservation received majority support from the county board of supervisors on the hiring of a new administrative assistant/naturalist position, which was a point of contention earlier this fall. Supervisor Brandon Talsma voted against the hiring last week, saying he will likely vote against similar resolutions. Including those from the sheriff’s office and secondary roads, two departments that Talsma said are some of the most important in the county.

In a phone interview with Newton

News, Talsma explained his decision to vote no was motivated by upcoming budget constraints and the uncertainties from possible property tax reform laws coming out of the Iowa Legislature. It is a decision upheld by his past statements regarding new hires and new positions.

“This upcoming budget year is going to be extremely tight,” he said. “We need to try to find cuts and savings where we can … Over 50 percent of our budget is property taxes and the vast majority of property taxes is going to pay for — not equipment, not programs, not special projects — but wages and benefits.”

budget constraints

For the past year or so, Talsma said he has been trying to force conversations with department heads to find ways to save costs, either through attrition — a process in which positions are not refilled after employees leave, thus saving money — or other creative means like shared positions.

Talsma suggested conservation and secondary roads discuss the possibility of a shared position, similar to the one shared by other general assistance and veterans affairs. However, this proposal was contested by conservation board members and caused community wide backlash online for some time.

A delayed appointment to the conservation board only exacerbated the backlash. Robyn Friedman had been awaiting her reappointment to the board for some time, but was ultimately rejected. Instead, supervisors appointed one of their own to the conservation board: Thad Nearmyer. Again, the community lashed out. Supervisors and conservation board members were originally at odds with over an empty position. If left unfilled, conservation argued it could mean fewer educational programs for students in Jasper County. Conservation also argued it

Baxter Federated Garden Club

Baxter Federated Garden Club met on Nov. 17. Nine members were present. Meeting called to order by president Macy Lick. For roll call members shared what they have planned for Thanksgiving. Secretary report was given by secretary Deb Krampe who read the September minutes which were approved as read. For October’s meeting five members toured the Ap

pleberry Farm in Marshalltown.

Treasurer Report was given by treasurer Janet Damman. Janet presented a written report of all expenses and income during October and November.

No correspondence or announcements were shared.

Old and New Business — Macy thanked everyone who helped with planting the community trees and the trees in the Children’s Park. She also thanked the five members who helped clean up the cemetery and Baxter sign gardens.

A big thank you went to Laura, Lynette, and Peggy for decorating our Christmas tree at the Jasper Coun-

Club News

ty Museum for the Tree-mendous Christmas Experience.

The members who attended the Appleberry Farm in October had a good time.

The Fall Front Door Contest was a success! Winners were recognized in the Jasper County Tribune with first place going to Rapp-Morphew’s winning $100, second place going to the Pyle’s winning $75, and third place to the Bethards winning $50.

The club will be sponsoring a Christmas Decorating contest for Baxter residents during the month of December with the same cash prizes as the fall contest. Committee members Janet and Cindy will be heading up this contest.

Club members discussed what to do with the main street planters for the holiday season. It was decided to have members adopt the business section planters and decorate them. Each member present signed up for one or two planters and will have them decorated by the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Laura shared that the club has 50

hours of volunteer time in. This is not including the time spent watering the main street planters.

President Macy announced that the club would be getting $100 this next year for putting on the Breakfast for the district meting. Next year’s district meeting will be in Oseola at the Oseola Conservation Building and the State Federated Garden Club meeting will be at the Prairie Rose Casino in Jefferson.

The club will be honoring long time member Betty Nikkol by submitting a Circle of Roses award for her exceptional dedication and making a difference with her knowledge and participation. As well as donating our Plant-a-Tree (Penny for Pines) donation in her honor. Big thank you goes to Beth for submitting these awards.

Next meeting will be the club’s Christmas Potluck at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10 at Deb Krampe’s.

Meeting adjouned. Diane served a wonderful apple butterscotch cake and snack mix while members enjoyed doing a craft they had brought.

Pella’s Tunnel of Lights

This holiday season, Pella’s downtown square will once again shine brightly. Pella Fiber is teaming up with Spirit of Pella to offer residents and visitors free holiday photos beneath the Tunnel of Lights. Director of Telecommunications Doy Ousley and Local Programming Coordinator Monte Goodyk from Pella Fiber have been involved in downtown lighting efforts for several years.

“We delight in knowing that hundreds of individuals, families, and friends have been able to capture special holiday memories to share because of this event,” said Doy Ousley.

Community members and visitors are invited to experience the Tunnel of Lights in Pella’s Central Park from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28, and Saturday, Nov. 29, where Goodyk will take professional digital photos on a first-come, first-served basis each night. Images will be available for download from a website the following week.

Advanced Beef Cow Calving Clinics to prepare producers for calving season

Four

The Iowa Beef Center is offering four Advanced Calving Clinics to help Iowa cattlemen and women prepare for a successful calving season and subsequent breeding period. Clinics will be offered at four locations across Iowa: on Jan. 6 in Fayette and Clinton counties and on Jan. 7 in Greene and Montgomery counties.

Session topics will cover essentials from conception to calving, including strategies for managing dystocia with practice using a life-size calving model, beef cow nutrition basics, neonatal calf health and care and calving distribution management. Attendees of previous Advanced Calving Clinics have reported substantial satisfaction with the program, estimating an average benefit of $1,480 per operation.

“Whether you’ve calved 10 cows or 10,000 cows, there’s always a new tip or technique to learn to help you get one more calf born alive,” said Denise Schwab, beef specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “These clinics will feature a variety of hands-on and classroom sessions and opportunities to share questions and experiences.” Local veterinarians Dr. Cody Sacquitne of South Winn Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Michelle Hohrman of DeWitt Veterinary Clinic, Dr.

Amy Klauer and Dr. Charles Martin of Fairview Veterinary Clinic and Dr. Aimee Anderson of Anderson Veterinary Services will be present at their respective locations to provide insights on neonatal calf health and common reproductive challenges in the local area.

“A popular feature of the calving clinics is the life-size calving model,” said Erika Woolfolk, beef specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach.

“Dr. Caitlin Wiley from the ISU College of Veterinary Medicine will help participants with tips and tricks for handling difficult delivery situations.”

Additionally, Randie Culbertson, assistant professor and cow-calf specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, will present a session on improving rebreeding success. Schwab and Woolfolk will also lead a presentation on preand post-calving nutrition.

Because the sessions are designed for individual hands-on learning, attendance is limited to 50 participants per clinic location, and preregistration is required. The cost is $25 per person, which includes a meal.

Those who want to attend should register at least two days in advance of their desired location date by contacting the respective county extension office:

• Fayette County: Jan. 6, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., 504 S. Vine St., West Union. To register, call 563-425-3331.

• Clinton County: Jan. 6, 4:30 to 9:30 p.m., 512 10th St., DeWitt. To register, call 563-659-5125.

• Greene County: Jan. 7, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Clover Hall at the Greene County Fairgrounds,601 E. Lincoln Way, Jefferson. To register, call 515-386-2138.

• Montgomery County: Jan. 7, 4:30 to 9:30 p.m., White Fair Building at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 1809 N. Fourth St., Red Oak. To register, call 712623-2529. This statewide program is supported through sponsorship of the calving model from Boehringer Ingelheim. Additionally, local sponsors include the Greene and Clinton County Cattlemen’s Association.

For more information, contact Erika Lundy-Woolfolk at ellundy@iastate.edu or Denise Schwab at dschwab@ iastate.edu.

Giving

Continued from Page 1

Instead of a candy cane or Christmas ornament on the tree, guests are likely to see a dog toy, dish towel or t-shirt used as decorations. The themes can get quite inventive and each year the kids are challenged with

Settlement

Continued from Page 1

how to make it unique and still beautiful

“When we had the Animal Rescue League they would use dog or cat toys,” Wilson said. “They are all so unique. There is one club that makes their tree out of packages of toilet paper that they then donate to the PCM Food Pantry. Then, they wrap garland around it.”

Many organizations benefit from

Intensive outpatient substance treatment program. Pryor noted this would be the last time the committee would fund Capstone’s justice-involved substance treatment going forward.

Clearview Recovery received $45,987 for a sewer-related infrastructure project at women’s treatment facility in Prairie City. Sheepgate was awarded $25,000 for a building project. Newton Church of The Way was given $3,478 for the books needed for a new celebrate recovery program.

In total, the opioid settlement committee received nine applications before the Oct. 31 deadline. The committee interviewed each applicant on Nov. 7 and then met last week to decide which projects would receive funds. Pryor said it was a hard decision because there was a lot of really good programs that applied.

Supervisor Brandon Talsma disclosed that he is a board member of Capstone and would be abstaining from the conversations related to the organization. He also abstained from voting on the two projects related to Capstone. Supervisor Thad Nearmyer, a committee member, said there was a lot of interest for funds. “We weren’t able to fully fund every project … But there is definitely a lot of interest,” he said. “It’s a good thing to get this money out into the community.”

the tree’s themes, including Quilts of Valor, the PCM Food Pantry, local animal organizations and a variety of nonprofits throughout the county. The festival not only brings eye candy to the courthouse, it also works to help those in need where they live.

While the trees will be up until after Christmas, those wanting to see all of the decorations will need to stop by before Dec. 25. As the holiday ap -

Conservation

Continued from Page 1

had the authority and money in the budget to hire someone. Supervisors agreed.

Still, what supervisors have described as a miscommunication resulted in some residents speaking out at meetings, or airing frustrations online.

But those discussions about a shared position never took place, and Talsma was against the idea of hiring someone if it meant having to fire the person shortly after to make room in the budget. Talsma told Newton News when an opportunity presents itself, the county needs to ask: Does this position really need refilled?

Talsma said, “Can this position be split across other jobs that already exist? Can it be combined with other needs and requirements from other departments in the county to where we’re achieving multiple departments’ goals? As budget constraints continue to tighten … this is the conversation that has to take place.”

Since those conversations never took place, Talsma voted no

proaches, some of the items used to decorate the trees will make their way to the people and organizations the trees are based around to celebrate the giving theme.

“It is a really fun night,” Wilson said. “No matter what kind of day you are having, you see all of the kids, some who haven’t seen each other since the fair. It is exciting and warms your heart.”

against the hiring resolution for the administrative assistant/naturalist. Talsma said other departments are going to be requesting additional full-time positions, including the sheriff’s office and secondary roads.

“My answer is probably going to be ‘no’ to those as well,” he said. “In secondary roads, we eliminated a full-time position in that department a year ago. We took a fulltime position and cut it back down to part-time … My priority has always been roads and law enforcement. Now, not saying they’ve got a blank check.”

Talsma stressed his decision to vote no was not personal, saying he is an avid outdoorsman and supports Jasper County Conservation.

The board of supervisors chairman said he advocated for conservation to receive ARPA funding and for the department to be compensated for an easement over a bike trail with MidAmerican Energy. Talsma said he also fought for the updated campgrounds at Mariposa Park.

To him, the board of supervisors — comprised of all Republicans — have to start saying “no” at some of these future hirings. Talsma said if the county continues to fill po -

sitions and continues to add new employees, then Jasper County cannot also try to keep its property tax levies low for residents.

Talsma said there used to be a lot of “fat” and overtaxation in Jasper County’s budget. After seven years in office, Talsma said the “easy stuff” that can be cut from the budget that shouldn’t impact citizens or departments too much has already been cut. Property tax reform from the state adds another challenge.

“I feel like Jasper County has done a very good job of keeping our property tax asking down way below what the other taxing entities are, and I want to maintain that going forward into next fiscal year,” Talsma said. “But because we’re kind of running out of those places to cut, it’s going to prop these harder conversations.”

Prior to the board approving the hiring resolution, Nearmyer acknowledged the past issues between supervisors and conservation.

“It’s my goal to help smooth out any problems that there might be,” he said. “So I wanted to take the opportunity today to say that, and I’m looking forward to what the future holds there.”

Place of prayer and meditation causes concern

My place of prayer and meditation is the bathroom, precisely, sitting on the stool, and has been for the 36 years I have been clean and sober. It is a place that is private and can be found for the most part wherever I am, be it at home, a motel, or someone else’s home. Even while traveling, a bathroom stall in the Men’s Room works so-so.

My time of prayer and meditation is early in the morning when I arise, and I arise early. This also benefits my privacy as no one else is up yet, tapping on the door, wanting to use the bathroom.

The time spent during prayer and meditation is upwards of an hour as I have quite a list, both on paper and mental, of people whom I pray for. Following prayers for specific people, I study my book of daily meditation, and then may read for awhile and/or “surf the Net.” I spend so much time on the toilet stool that my legs fall asleep and I have to stand up to restore circulation.

Herein lies the problem. Ginnie

Scholarships are free money for college OPINION

By Juan Garcia Iowa Student Loan Liquidity Corporation board member

If your family has a current or future college student, this is a great time to look for scholarships that will help offset the cost of an education. Scholarships are considered “gift aid,” meaning that they do not need to be repaid later. Some are one-time awards that can be used while a family’s college savings continues to grow; others are renewable as long as the student remains eligible.

While we hear a lot about athletic scholarships or awards for high academic achievement, no student should overlook the possibility of earning some scholarships. Many different types of organizations offer scholarships, so casting a wide net will help students locate the opportunities they are most eligible for.

Here are some tips for finding and applying for scholarships:

Use free scholarship aggregator sites online. There is no need to pay for a service with so many free tools available. Step 1 Scholarship Search is a new site that offers free searches based on a wide assortment of criteria. Students, parents and educators may create a profile to customize, save and share searches.

Use school and community resources. The school counselor’s office generally has a list of local scholarships. Parents’ employers, civic organizations, area businesses, and religious and community groups are all potential scholarship sources. Colleges themselves often provide scholarship awards, so it’s well worth the time to explore the admission, financial aid and departmental pages of college websites.

Complete the first application. Once one application is in, it may be easier for students to complete others. It may help to set aside time each week to search for and apply for awards. One to start with is the ISL Education Lending Scholarship at www.IowaStudentLoan.org/Savings. In just a few minutes, Iowa residents who are current Iowa high school students, undergraduate college students, or their parents or guardians can enter for chances to win $1,000 for college.

Don’t give up. It’s important to keep looking for scholarships because sponsors make their opportunities available at various times. The search should continue during the college years too, as students may become eligible for departmental or industry-related awards later on.

See the big picture. While smaller awards may seem insignificant compared to the total cost of college, remember that every scholarship earned allows savings to go further and reduces the need to take out student loans that have to be repaid with interest. Multiple small awards can add up quickly as well.

SPEAK OUT

Brandon Talsma, chair 4309 W Fourth St. S. Newton, IA 50208 641-526-3142 btalsma@jasperia.org

Curt Swarm Empty Nest

showed me an article in the Des Moines Sunday Register that equated spending too much time on the toilet stool with causing hemorrhoids. The article indicated that people who take their smart phone to the bathroom and spend five minutes on the toilet have a likelier chance of sprouting hemorrhoids.

FIVE MINUTES!? I’m spending an hour a day on the toilet seat and, yes, I do have hemorrhoids and, yes, they do bother me and, yes, they do bleed. The bleeding is a major source of concern as I take a blood thinner, Eliquis. I have visions of having to rush to the emergency room, or call an ambulance, due to uncontrollable bleeding. It hasn’t happened yet. “Yet” is the operative word.

Normally I would think this subject too gross or in poor taste for newspaper publication. However, the Des Moines Sunday Register devoted a full page, IN COLOR, to this subject, so I guess it’s met the smell test. (Sorry.)

To add to the difficulties, the cancer treatment I just went through was effective in arresting the cancer, but it gave me colitis. Thank you very much. If you don’t know what colitis is, don’t feel like the lone stranger. I didn’t either until it was gifted me. Colitis is an inflammation of the inner lining of the colon. Without going into detail, and grossing you out further, I’ll just say that colitis has necessitated me spending more time on the toilet seat. End of conversation.

For you old school people out there, like me, yes, hemorrhoids are also known as “piles.” Don’t ask me why, it’s kind of strange. In high school, we had a kid whose nickname was Piles. Funny. I never knew why until I am one. “Piles” comes from the Latin term “pila” meaning “ball.” Okay, hemorrhoids are sort of like a ball. Once again, end of subject.

My dilemma is: after 36 years of spending upwards of an hour a day in prayer and meditation every morning

on the toilet, I’m so addicted to the custom that I don’t think I can change even though it may be doing me harm. What am I to do?

I know. I can install a sitz bath in the bathroom and spend the hour in the warm comfort of the sitz, while praying and meditating. When I was 13, and first came down with hemorrhoids (from junior high football) the doctor recommended a sitz bath. I tried one in the hospital after my first surgery for hemorrhoids, and it was warm and comforting, sorta like a bidet, I’m told.

I’m caught between a rock and a hard place, no pun intended. It’s important that I pray and meditate every morning, for both me and the people I pray for, but it’s also important that I take care of my health. Every time I get in a hurry and think about skipping my morning hour of prayer and meditation, which is almost every morning, I hear the voice of God. “You know, Curtis, I can stop time.”

The life of a monk, prostrate in prayer 24/7, is becoming more appealing every day.

Contact Curt Swarm at curtswarm@yahoo.com

OPINION

Thanksgiving: Have an attitude of gratitude

By Bryan Golden

Thanksgiving is much more than a big meal with family and friends. It’s a time to reflect on, and be thankful for, all of the good things you have. It’s important to be grateful, not just on Thanksgiving, but each and every day. Rather than lamenting what you feel is lacking in your life, begin each new day by developing an attitude of gratitude. Take inventory of your blessings and you will be surprised at just how much you have to be thankful for.

If you have enough to eat, a place to live, a way to get around, people who care about you, or people you care about, then you are wealthy. If you lack any of these elements, you must still be grateful for what you do have, while striving to obtain whatever is absent.

Focus on all positive aspects of your life. Take nothing for granted. Every morning, recharge your appreciation. Be happy for everything there is, not upset over what you feel is missing. Dreams of the future shouldn’t diminish appreciation for the present. If all you do is concentrate on what you want, you won’t enjoy today. Don’t be jealous of others; what they do or have has no bearing on you.

SHARE YOUR VIEW

You can feel bitter or resentful for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you feel something is missing from your life, things aren’t going your way, or you have been treated unfairly. You may wonder, “why do these things always happen to me?”

Life’s problems tend to dominate your thoughts, turning your focus to what you feel is wrong. You may start to resent those who appear to be better off. You’re apt to dwell on things you think would make your life better if you had them. If only you had more money, more time, a bigger house, a different car, a different job, a different boss, had picked a different career, etc.

Once your attitude becomes one of deficiency instead of abundance and appreciation, you can become overwhelmed by feelings of frustration and feel like a victim. As this happens, a consuming vicious cycle starts.

Being bitter or resentful blows situations out of proportion. People who are bitter frequently find that their situations deteriorate and their mental and physical health decays.

It’s difficult, if not impossible, to achieve your goals while you are bitter or resentful. Regardless of what challenges might befall you,

bitterness makes finding solutions much more elusive. There is no point to feeling bitter since it accomplishes nothing, harms you and makes things worse. Filling yourself with gratitude on a daily basis makes you feel good, while driving out negative feelings. Begin your practice of gratitude each morning as soon as you wake. Every day is a great day. If you have any doubts, try missing one. Take inventory of everything, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, that is good in your life. If it helps, make a written list of all things you are grateful for. Read your list every day. As you do this, you will build and reinforce your attitude of gratitude. Don’t waste any time with what you feel you don’t have. Keep things in perspective. Consider all the people who have overcome difficulties far worse than yours. Don’t be consumed by your problems, there is always a solution. Maintaining an attitude of gratitude allows your mind to devise a resolution for your circumstances. Make everyday a day of Thanksgiving and you will be amazed how much better your life will become.

ContactBryanGoldenat Bryan@columnist.comorvisitwww. DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com

Letters to the Jasper County Tribune will be edited for libel, grammar and length and should not exceed 400 words. We reserve the right to shorten letters and reject those deemed libelous, in poor taste or of a personal nature. Include your

How to contact your elected officials

Jasper County Supervisors

Doug Cupples, vice chair 1205 S. 20th Ave. W. Newton, IA 50208 641-521-8725 dcupples@jasperia.org

Thad Nearmyer 4360 S. 96th Ave. W. Monroe, IA 50170

641-891-8863 tnearmyer@jasperia.org

Giving thanks for traffic safety

The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) is teaming up with law enforcement agencies across Iowa to promote road safety during the Thanksgiving holiday season. Drivers can expect to see increased police presence on Iowa roads through November 30, 2025.

As families travel near and far to celebrate, GTSB urges everyone to remember that seat belts are not only the law, they are also your best defense against serious

injury or death in a crash. Last year, during Thanksgiving week (November 24-30, 2024), there were 17 fatal or serious injury crashes, including 5 that involved unrestrained occupants. This heartbreak may have been prevented with the simple click of a seat belt.

Additionally, GTSB reminds everyone that Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving and to plan for a sober driver before heading out. Impaired driving is more than

Metro Creative As families travel near and far to celebrate, GTSB urges everyone to remember seat belts are your best defense against serious injury or death in a crash.

New snowmobile law streamlines permit requirements for residents 2025

Iowa snowmobilers are no longer required to purchase and display an annual trail user permit, according to a new law that went into effect July 1, 2024. The law folded the trail user permit into the annual snowmobile registration fee, which will now be $30 plus administration fees. The previous price for each type was $15.

just drunk driving- it’s drugs as well, and If You Feel Different, You Drive Different.

GTSB collaborates with city, county, state, and local organizations to create and implement strategies aimed at reducing fatalities and injuries on Iowa roads through federally funded grants.

For more tips on safe travel this Thanksgiving, visit Drive Smart Iowa. Be safe and enjoy your holiday!

Snowmobilers who own a new machine or have not yet entered the snowmobile into the state registration system need to go to the County Recorder’s office in their county of residence to start the registration process. To renew an existing registration, visit the County Recorder or go online to www.gooutdoorsiowa.com

Nonresident snowmobilers will still need to purchase and display the trail user permit, which are available at any County Recorder’s Office, through retailers that sell hunting and fishing licenses, or online at www. gooutdoorsiowa.com

Learn more about Iowa’s snowmobile programs at: www.iowadnr. gov/snowmobiles.

Registration and permit fees for snowmobiles are placed in a dedicated account for snowmobile programs in Iowa, including the Iowa Snowmobile Trail Grant Program, which is administered through the Iowa State Snowmobile Association. The grant program supports snowmobile trail development and grooming; equipment purchases and maintenance; and trail signage in cooperation with snowmobile clubs all across Iowa.

Be mindful of heart health risks during this year’s hunting season

The thrill of bagging a big buck or a pheasant can bring a smile to any hunter’s face. But the exertion of dragging that trophy back to camp could bring on a heart attack or stroke, according to the American Heart Association. In rural settings where EMS responses can be delayed and minutes matter, it’s important for hunters to be ready to respond in a cardiac or stroke emergency.

“Many people look to hunting as a way to relax and commune with nature and if you’re healthy and in good physical shape, it can be a great way to get some outdoor exercise. However, for many hunters, the extra exertion, colder temperatures and even the excitement of the hunt can add up to a deadly combination,” said Robert Gavora., an American Heart Association board member and Chief Administrative Officer at MercyOne-Iowa Heart. “People in rural areas may experience longer wait times for EMS, so it’s import-

HOWARD ST. CHRISTIAN CHURCH

(Disciples of Christ)

Pastor Josh Burns

101 N. Locust St., Colfax Cell - 515-779-3148

SUNDAY - 10 a.m. Fellowship;10:30 a.m. Worship, in person or online via YouTube

MONDAY - Pastor Josh day off TUESDAY - 9:30 a.m. Coffee Time; 2:30 p.m. Chair Yoga

WEDNESDAY - 3:30 p.m. After school elementary youth; 6:15 ChiRho and CYF youth supper; 7:30 p.m. Youth Group

THIRD SUNDAY - 8 p.m. Elders meeting, Board meeting after church; Collect for Food Pantry

FOURTH SUNDAY - Potluck

Dinner

FIFTH SUNDAY - Potluck

Breakfast

FIRST MONDAY - WIC appointments

FOURTH & FIFTH TUESDAY3 p.m. Table of Grace

IRA UNITED CHURCH

Pastors Doug Cupples and Phil Butler

SUNDAY - 9:30 a.m. Church

ant to recognize symptoms and to be able to take quick action.”

“Some heart attacks are sudden and intense. But most start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Know all the signs, even those that aren’t the norm, pay attention to your body and call 911 if you experience any of these symptoms,” Gavora said.

Heart attack symptoms include:

Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes – or it may go away and then return. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

Shortness of breath. This can occur with or without chest discomfort.

Other signs. Other possible signs include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or light-

headedness. Use the letters in F.A.S.T to spot a stroke

F = Face Drooping – Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile uneven?

A = Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S = Speech Difficulty – Is speech slurred?

T = Time to call 911

Other signs can include: numbness or weakness of face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech; trouble seeing in one or both eyes; trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination; or a severe headache with no known cause

“Heart attacks and strokes can happen even to people who seem in good physical shape,” Gavora said. “Listen to your body, take breaks if needed and have a plan in case of

emergencies. Never hunt alone if possible and if cell phone service isn’t available, use walkie-talkies to stay in touch with your hunting party. Recognizing the warnings signs and seeking immediate help are key.”

Getting a person to the hospital quickly during a heart attack or stroke is critical to ensure they get medication and treatment to save their life. If calling 9-1-1 isn’t an option in the woods, it can also help to know in advance where the closest hospital is to the hunting area. The American Heart Association urges hunters to learn Hands-Only-CPR in case one of their hunting party suffers a cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest differs from a heart attack because the heart suddenly stops beating, often without any warning. Signs of a cardiac arrest are: • Sudden loss of responsiveness – The person doesn’t respond, even if you tap them hard on the shoulders or ask

Church Schedules

service; 10:30 a.m. Sunday school Communion first Sunday

METZ COMMUNITY CHURCH

3253 W. 62nd St. S., Newton Pastor David Rex 641-521-4354

SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday school; 10:10 a.m. Worship Last Saturday of month - 8 a.m. Men’s Breakfast

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, Colfax Minister, Pastor Cody Dyer Church Office 674-4165

SUNDAY, Nov. 30 - 9 a.m. Fellowship; 9:15 a.m. Bible Education Classes; 10:25 a.m. Communion Sunday - Message by Pastor Cody Dyer

MONDAY, Dec. 1 - 6:30 p.m. Men’s Group

TUESDAY, Dec. 2 - 9:30 a.m.

Women’s Prayers & Coffee; 6:30 p.m. Gospel of John Bible Study

WEDNESDAY, Dec. 3 - 9 a.m.

Busy Bee Quilters and Fresh Encounter Prayer; 5:45 p.m. AWANA Family Meal; 6:25 p.m. AWANA Clubs

FRIDAY, Dec. 5 - 7 p.m. Life

The church schedule is brought to you by Coburn FUNERAL HOMES

Colfax-Prairie City-Monroe 515-674-3155 www.coburnfuneralhomes.com

Recovery Meeting

SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH Newton, Iowa

SATURDAY - 4 p.m. Mass SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Mass

COLFAX FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH S. Locust & W. Division St. Office - 674-3782

Rev. Phil Dicks pastor SUNDAY - 10:30 a.m. Sunday School; Family Worship

HOPE ASSEMBLY OF GOD

126 E. Howard Rev. Paul Avery, pastor Church: 674-3700 hopeassemblyofgod@yahoo.com

SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday school; 10 a.m. Worship; Today is Food Pantry Sunday

IMMACULATE

CONCEPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH

302 E. Howard St., Colfax Rev. William Reynolds

515-674-3711

SUNDAY - 11 a.m. Mass

MINGO UNITED

METHODIST CHURCH Rev. Phil Dicks 515-689-4926

SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Worship service (Sunday school not meeting at this time)

ASHTON CHAPEL

8887 W. 122nd St. N., Mingo

Pastors: Larry Craig & Mark Eddy

SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday school; 10 a.m. Worship

BETHANY UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 5627 N. 95th Ave. W., Baxter 641-227-3402

Pastor Chris Hayward

SUNDAY - 9:30 a.m. Sunday School (Sunday after Labor Day to second Sunday in May); 10:30 a.m. Sunday Worship. First Sunday communion. All are welcome. baxterbethanyucc.org

EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH BAXTER Mike Mclintock, Pastor SUNDAY - 9:15 a.m. Sunday School; 10 a.m. Worship; 6 p.m. Awanas

WEDNESDAYS - 1st & 3rd6:30 p.m. Mens Bible Study 2nd & 4th - 6:30 p.m. Men’s and Womens Bible Study

THURSDAYS 10 a.m. - Womens Bible Study

BAXTER

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 218 S. Main, Baxter Pastor Ben Spera Church: 641-227-3382

SUNDAY - 10 a.m. Worship

WEDNESDAY - 6 p.m. Bible Study

THIRD THURSDAY of month - 6:30 p.m. Theology on Tap at Bea’s Place on Main Street Check us out on Facebook and baxtercongregational.com

loudly if they’re OK. The person doesn’t move, speak, blink or otherwise react.

• No normal breathing –The person isn’t breathing or is only gasping for air. In the event of a cardiac arrest, seconds count. Call 9-1-1, begin CPR immediately and continue until professional emergency medical services arrive.

“Learning hands-only CPR is one of the best skills any hunter can have. The American Heart Association offers many local CPR classes, and even if you haven’t taken a formal class, you can still save a life. It’s two simple steps – call 9-1-1 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest,” Gavora said. “While hunting can be a very strenuous activity, taking a few precautions and being prepared can make a difference in the safety of the experience.”

Learn more about heart attacks and strokes, along with preventive health tips at heart. org.

CORNERSTONE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP 1000 E. 12th St., Newton Rev. Josh Farver, pastor Phone 641-792-4650 SUNDAY - 9 a.m. Sunday school; 10:15 a.m. Worship

WEDNESDAY - 6:30 p.m. Prayer Meeting and Bible Study; Youth Group

HERITAGE WORD OF LIFE ASSEMBLY OF GOD 102 Second St. NW, Mitchellville Pastor Dave Adams 515-967-3330

SUNDAY - 9 a.m.

Colfax-Mingo girls rally past SE Warren in season opener

LIBERTY CENTER — The Colfax-Mingo girls basketball team lost five games by single digits last season.

The Tigerhawks hope to flip that script in the new season, and they took a step in that direction on Nov. 21 when they rallied from a halftime deficit to down Southeast Warren, 37-30, on the road.

Colfax-Mingo won the non-conference game despite shooting just 28.8 percent from the floor.

Southeast Warren was 0-of-10 from 3-point range and missed seven free

throws on its home floor though.

The Warhawks led 10-5 after one quarter and went into halftime with a seven-point lead.

But the visitors outscored Southeast Warren 18-2 in the third to grab an advantage they didn’t relinquish.

Blain Houseman led the Tigerhawks (10) with nine points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals and Isabelle Foglesong added 10 points, three rebounds and two assists.

Lydia Hansen totaled nine points, five boards and two steals, Mallory Sipma collected six points, six re-

bounds and two steals and Mickey Bucklin registered six rebounds and two steals off the bench.

Dakota Allen posted three rebounds, two assists and two steals and Katelyn Steenhoek corralled two boards.

The Tigerhawks, who lost to Southeast Warren by three points last season, were 4-of-18 from 3 and 3-of-6 from the free-throw line.

They swiped 12 steals and had 18 turnovers.

Southeast Warren (0-1) turned the ball over 25 times, shot 36 percent from the floor and was 4-of-11 from the foul line.

Madison Olsasky led the Warhawks with nine points, seven rebounds and four steals and Jessica Lillig added 10 points and four boards.

Tigerhawk trio leads Colfax-Mingo girls at Ballard dual tournament

HUXLEY — Emmalyn Buchman, Brianna Freerksen and Londyn Alanis all were 3-0 for the night, but the Colfax-Mingo girls wrestling team returned home with just one win from the Ballard dual tournament on Nov. 20.

The Tigerhawks edged the host Bombers, 36-30, but the Southeast Polk junior varsity snuck past Colfax-Mingo, 42-36, and Carlisle scored a 53-24 victory.

Colfax-Mingo was 5-4 in contested matches against Ballard and both teams took a forfeit. There were double forfeits at 100, 105 and 110 pounds.

Freerksen (125), Alanis (140), Isabelle Cushatt (145), Samantha Wheeler (155) and Kennedy Phillips (190) all won by fall in the first period and Buchman accepted a forfeit at 235.

Wheeler’s match took 9 seconds, Phillips won by fall in 14 seconds, Cushatt posted a 31-second pin and Freerksen won by fall in 38 seconds.

The Tigerhawks were 4-4 in contested matches against the Rams, but

Southeast Polk had a 3-2 advantage in forfeit wins. There was one double forfeit.

Freerksen, Alanis, Cushatt and Phillips all won by fall and Wheeler and Buchman accepted forfeits. Phillips won her match in 25 seconds and Freerksen’s pin came in 33 seconds.

Carlisle was 6-4 in contested matches against the Tigerhawks, and the Wildcats took the only three forfeits in the dual.

Freerksen bumped up to 130 but still won by fall. Alanis, Buchman and Lily Anderson (135) also earned wins by pin.

Freerksen and Alanis were 3-0 with three pins, Buchman was 3-0 with two forfeits and Cushatt, Wheeler and Phillips all won twice.

Buchman’s first-place finish leads C-M to eighth at Urbandale

URBANDALE — Buchman made a huge statement at the end of an undefeated day, Cushatt and Phillips placed third in their weights and Colfax-Mingo was eighth in the 15-team field at the Metro North Wrestling Invitational on Nov. 22.

The Tigerhawks were 23-14 in matches and finished just 11 points back of Class 2A No. 7 Indianola.

Ames won the tournament title

with 164.5 points. The Little Cyclones (164) edged Fort Madison and the rest of the top 10 included DCG (135), Benton Community (126.5), Johnston (120), Indianola (113.5), West Des Moines (109.5), Colfax-Mingo (102.5), Marshalltown (95) and Creston (92).

Buchman won the 235 bracket with a 3-0 day. Her third pin of the tournament came in the championship match against 2A No. 7 Lilian Miller of Council Bluffs Abraham Lincoln.

Cushatt was 3-1 with three pins at 145 and Phillips finished 4-1 with four pins at 190.

Cushatt’s lone loss came against DCG’s Jenah Gray, who is ranked 11th in 2A at 140.

Phillips started and ended her day with a pin. Her last win came against 1A No. 8 Ellie Hutton of Interstate 35 and her lone loss was against 2A No. 8 Aubrey Borcherding of DCG.

Freerksen (125) and Alanis (140) both were fifth at their weights. Freerksen and Alanis were 3-2 with three pins and one of Alanis’ losses came to 2A No. 8 Lauryn Metcalf of Ames.

Emily Cook gave the Tigerhawks two top-six finishes at 235. She was sixth after a 2-3 day. Both of her wins came by fall.

Wheeler was 1-3 with a 19-1 technical fall victory at 155.

Keeney headlines Tigerhawks on all-SICL volleyball team

ninth with 20 aces and chipped in three assists and 44 digs and was 125-of-141 in serves.

Baxter girls finish 13th at BGM tournament

BROOKLYN — Johnelle Gliem placed third in her weight class to lead the Baxter girls wrestling team to a 13th-place finish on Nov. 22.

Madison Jochems and Kenzie Wignall also scored top-eight finishes and the Bolts totaled 33 points at the BGM Girls Wrestling Tournament.

Class 1A No. 2 Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont won the tournament title with 158 points. The rest of the top five included Iowa Valley (145), Pekin (135), North Mahaska (129) and North Tama (121). There were 17 teams in the field.

Gliem’s third-place finish came at 170 pounds. She was 2-1 with two pins.

Wignall was sixth at 125. She started and ended her day with losses by fall but had three pins in between.

Jochems (130) opened with a loss to EBF’s Georgia Smith, who is ranked third in Class 1A at 125. Jochems was 2-2 with two pins.

Malayla Hurd also competed for the Bolts and was 0-2 at 235.

Gliem places third to lead Bolts in season opener

SIGOURNEY — The Newton girls wrestling team features 20 first-year athletes this season.

But it was the veterans on the Cardinals’ squad that led the way in the team’s season opener at Sigourney/Keota on Nov. 18.

Ashlyn Van Manen won her bracket with a 4-0 day, Kylee Adams placed second at 115 and Alivia Conley finished third at 125 as the Cardinals came in fourth in the team standings.

Baxter’s three varsity wrestlers netted 36 points, and the Bolts finished 18th in the 22team field.

Gliem placed third at 170, while Jochems (130) and Hurd (235) each took sixth at their weights.

Gliem opened with a bye and finished with a pair of wins by pin in the first period and a loss by fall.

Jochems started with a loss by fall but ended her prep debut with a pair of first-period pins. Hurd finished 2-2 with two first-period falls.

Class 1A No. 2 EBF won the tournament championship with 178 points. West Liberty (131.5), Pekin (128), Newton (120) and North Mahaska (106.5) completed the top five.

Colfax-Mingo senior Britney Keeney ranked fifth in the South Iowa Cedar League in kills, sixth in blocks and ninth in aces this past season, and Lynnville-Sully senior Tatum Huyser led the Hawks in multiple statistical categories. Both area hitters were named to the first team of the all-SICL volleyball squad recently.

C-M junior Katelyn Steenhoek also was recognized with a second-team selection.

The honorable mention choices were L-S senior Kate Harthoorn, C-M senior Grace Hunsberger and C-M junior Grace Allen.

All-conference recognition is based on statistics inside conference play only. The SICL Coach of the Year was Tim Burgess of conference champion Montezuma.

Keeney led the Tigerhawks and ranked fifth in the SICL with 104 kills. She was sixth with 27 blocks,

Steenhoek made a strong case for first team after ranking 10th in the conference with 160 assists, second with 27 aces and first with 210 serves and 190 successful serves. She also added 63 kills, nine blocks and 115 digs.

Steenhoek

Allen

Hunsberger registered 52 kills, 44 digs, 14 aces, five blocks and two assists and finished 109-of-120 in serves. Allen ranked eighth in the SICL with 177 digs and tallied 11 assists, three kills and 10 aces and was 103of-111 in serves. South Iowa

Coach of the Year

Tim Burgess, Montezuma Golden Awards

Kieren Perez, sr., North Mahaska; Olivia DeBevec, so., English Valleys. All-Conference First Team Setters: Erilea Kupka, so., HLV/TC; Chloe Snook, sr., Montezuma. First Team Libero: Shaye Strong, sr., BGM. First Team Players: Britney Keeney, sr., Colfax-Mingo; Tatum Huyser, sr., Lynnville-Sully; Nataliya Linder, jr., North Mahaska; Sydnee Burgess, jr., Montezuma; Ava Gehrking, jr., English Valleys; Nicole Gensley, sr., HLV/TC; Addy Fineran, sr., Sigourney; Bailey Gretter, jr., Sigourney. Second Team Setter: Carly Lake, jr., North Mahaska. Second Team Libero: Lauryn Larmore, so., Montezuma. Second Team Players: Katelyn Steenhoek, jr., Colfax-Mingo; Lilly Ferry, sr., Montezuma; Abby Van Wealden, sr., North Mahaska; Emery Hall, jr., HLV/TC; Hadyn Bender, jr., English Valleys; Elise Lyle, so., Keota; Jules Stamp, so., Belle Plaine; Maeci Marshall, jr., Iowa Valley. Honorable Mention Grace Hunsberger, sr., Colfax-Mingo; Grace Allen, jr., Colfax-Mingo; Kate Harthoorn, sr., Lynnville-Sully; Kennedy Cooper, jr., Belle Plaine; Jadie Dahlquist, so., Belle Plaine; Emy Minnaert, sr., BGM; Mya Beck, so., BGM; Joslyn Bender, so., English Valleys; Anna Gorsh, sr., English Valleys; Caidyn Schmidt, so., HLV/TC; Raegan Stowell, sr., HLV/TC; Clara Fry, sr., Iowa Valley; Olyvia Grant, fr., Iowa Valley; Kennedy Jackson, sr., Keota; Jaylah Redlinger, jr., Keota; Mya Smothers, jr., Montezuma; Leah Urfer, jr., Montezuma; Gracie DeGeest, sr., North Mahaska; Alivia Schock, sr., North Mahaska; Becca Gretter, jr., Sigourney; Clara Hanselman, jr., Sigourney.

Blain Houseman

Colfax-Mingo sophomore Blain Houseman led the Tigerhawks to a win in their season opener against SE Warren on Nov. 21. Houseman totaled nine points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals, and Colfax-Mingo rallied from a halftime deficit.