Author: Hayden Douglas

Mount Pleasant, Iowa — It was officially announced that Theresa Rose will be inducted into the prestigious Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame during this year’s Iowa State Fair. The honor recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service and commitment to the 4-H program, and Theresa’s name is now proudly among those who have made a lasting difference in the lives of Iowa youth.

Theresa has been a cornerstone of the 4-H and Extension community for many years, offering her time, talents, and unwavering dedication to supporting young people and their families. Whether leading workshops, mentoring club members, organizing events, covering the county fair for KILJ, or providing steady encouragement behind the scenes, she has exemplified the spirit of 4-H in every way.

Theresa’s induction will take place during a special ceremony at the Iowa State Fair, where family, friends, and fellow 4-H supporters will gather to celebrate her achievements. The Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame, established to honor outstanding volunteers, leaders, and contributors, serves as a lasting tribute to those who shape the future through youth development.

Southeast Iowa — With hot summer weather settling in, water temperatures across Southeast Iowa continue to climb, influencing fish behavior and pushing most species into deeper, shaded, or structure-heavy areas. Anglers can still find fair action by timing their trips for early morning or late evening hours and focusing on specific habitats.

Big Hollow Lake (Des Moines County)

Water temperatures are around 88 degrees, with the most consistent action happening early and late in the day.

• Black Crappie – Fair: Crappies are suspended in 7 to 8 feet of water in flooded timber. Try vertical jigging or drift trolling near the tree edges.
• Bluegill – Fair: Look in about 6 feet of water, especially in brushier timber pockets where they can escape predatory bass.

Lake Geode (Henry County)

Temperatures range from 86 to 89 degrees, with green water and about 2 feet of clarity. The thermocline is at 12 feet.

• Black Crappie – Fair: Focus on artificial habitat structures in 8 to 10 feet of water, with fish suspended a few feet above the bottom.
• Bluegill – Fair: Found in 8 to 9 feet of water off rocky shorelines.
• Channel Catfish – Fair: Mostly 12- to 13-inch fish, but some larger catfish have moved in from local ponds. Target them near the old work road by the in-lake silt dam.
• Largemouth Bass – Fair: Bass are hanging around rock piles and structure in 6-8 feet of water.

Cedar River (Moscow to Columbus Junction)

The river is currently bank full and slowly receding. Caution is advised, as water levels remain high and current conditions may limit accessibility.

Iowa River (Columbus Junction to Mississippi River)

Currently at minor flood stage near Wapello, with levels expected to drop back within banks by late Saturday. Fishing may improve as water levels normalize.

Skunk River (Rose Hill to Coppock)

The river is about a foot below bank full. Conditions are more favorable for anglers, though flows may still be high in certain stretches.

For more information on the lakes and rivers listed above, contact the Lake Darling Fisheries Office at 319-694-2430. Stay safe, stay cool, and happy fishing!

Tate Beard, a member of the Scotts sod busters 4-H Club, had a banner day at the Henry County Fair, earning both Grand Champion and Reserve Champion honors in the breeding ewe division.

Beard, the son of Philip and Katie Beard, brought two standout animals to the ring

Securing first and second place is no small feat, and Beard says it reflects the many hours of hard work and dedication behind the scenes.

But he’s not done yet. Tate will be back in the show ring later this week with his market wethers.

As the fair continues, Beard’s determination and strong showing are setting a high bar for the rest of the competition — and proving that commitment and care behind the barn doors can lead to big moments in the spotlight.

Henry County Supervisors Explore Workforce Merger, Burn Ordinance, and Approve School Resource Officer Contract

MOUNT PLEASANT — July 17, 2025
The Henry County Board of Supervisors met Thursday morning for a full agenda that included a public hearing on a proposed burn ordinance, contract approvals, and participation in a multi-county discussion on merging Iowa’s regional workforce development boards.

Workforce Development Merger Proposal

The board joined a Zoom call with Mississippi Valley Workforce Development to discuss a proposed merger with the South Central and Northeast Iowa workforce areas. The consolidation is prompted by drastic federal funding cuts that have left the South-Central region unable to operate past October 1 without restructuring.

Key points:

• The merger would preserve local control and service delivery by combining administrative efforts.
• Supervisors expressed concern about how financial liabilities would be shared among counties.
• The decision must be unanimous across the three regions, with a letter of intent due by August 18.

Public Hearing: Open Burn Ordinance

A motion was made and approved to enter a public hearing on a proposed open burn ordinance intended to reduce unnecessary fire department calls, particularly during red flag or burn ban conditions.

One county resident addressed the board, voicing support for the ordinance’s intent but stressed the need for clear communication and public education. “Where do you find out if you’re in a burn ban or red flag day?” he asked. Also raising concerns about how smaller burns and recreational fires would be treated.

Board response:

• Supervisors and emergency officials clarified that recreational and contained fires are not the target.
• The ordinance focuses on large-scale burns like CRP or ditch burning, particularly under risky weather conditions.
• Education and outreach will be a priority. County emergency alerts, a public safety app, Facebook, and other media will be used to notify the public about burn bans and red flag warnings.

The public hearing was then closed, with no objections. Supervisors noted that official readings of the ordinance will follow at future meetings.

Contract Approved for School Resource Officer

The board next reviewed a 28E agreement with the New London School District to provide a School Resource Officer (SRO). The board approved the agreement.

Other Business

The board briefly discussed the possibility of a future 28E agreement with the City of Salem, though no timeline has been established. Updates will be provided after the public safety committee meets.

The meeting concluded with subcommittee reports and general updates.

At this year’s fair, several graduating 4-H and FFA members were recognized for their years of hard work and dedication with a special keepsake: a commemorative belt buckle, courtesy of Brownfield Ag News. The belt buckle symbolizes the culmination of their youth agriculture careers and the impact the programs have had on their lives.

Among those honored was Briar Bender, a member of the Wayne Soil Savers. Briar received the Brownfield Ag News belt buckle as he wraps up his time in both 4-H and FFA.

Briar is the son of Tracy and Jason Bender.

Another honoree, Alyssa Greaber, is a longtime member of the Jefferson Juniors 4-H Club.

Alyssa, the daughter of Troy and Cassie Graber.

The Brownfield belt buckle ceremony is a tradition aimed at recognizing young people who have committed years to leadership, livestock, community service, and personal growth through 4-H and FFA.

A new queen now wears the crown at the Henry County Fair. During Wednesday evening’s coronation ceremony, Morgan Meyer was named the 2025 Henry County Fair Queen, earning the top honor and the chance to represent Henry County throughout the coming year—including at the Iowa State Fair Queen competition.

Among those joining Meyer on the court was Zenlynn Lee, who was awarded 1st Runner-Up and also named Miss Personality Plus, impressing judges with her charisma, enthusiasm, and strong presence.

In the junior division, Quintrie Lee was crowned the 2025 Junior Queen, with Courtney Smith named 1st Runner-Up.

The younger royalty titles were also acknowledged during the ceremony. Ezra Lemley was honored as the 2023 Henry County Fair Princess, and Adalyn Anderson received the 2024 Princess 1st Runner-Up.

Each year, the Henry County Fair Royalty Contest celebrates young women who exemplify leadership, confidence, and a commitment to community. Congratulations to all the 2025 fair royalty honorees!

The 2025 Henry county Fair Royalty coverage is brought to you by Hometown Veterinary care.

WASHINGTON, Iowa — Youth exhibitors from across Washington County delivered an impressive showing at the 2025 Washington County Fair sheep competitions, demonstrating their dedication, preparation, and strong livestock handling skills across breeding, market, and specialty lamb divisions.

Breeding Sheep Results:

• Commercial Breeding Yearling Ewe:
  Champion – Ella Leyh
  Reserve Champion – Hunter Barnes

• Purebred Ewe Lamb:
  Champion – Lexton Fisher
  Reserve Champion – Javan Davis
  4th Overall Breeding Ewe – Lexton Fisher

• White or Speckled-Faced Commercial Breeding Ewe Lamb:
  Champion – Morgyn Nafziger
  Reserve Champion – Adelyn Huston
  3rd Overall Breeding Ewe – Morgyn Nafziger
  5th Overall Breeding Ewe – Adelyn Huston

• Black-Faced Commercial Breeding Ewe Lamb:
  Champion – Ella Greiner
  Reserve Champion – Ava Greiner
  Supreme Champion Breeding Ewe – Ella Greiner
  Supreme Reserve Champion Breeding Ewe – Ava Greiner

Market Sheep Results:

• Carcass Lamb Data:
  Champion – Kameron Tusing
  Reserve Champion – Luke Adam
  Top Ten Overall:

  • Covert Greiner (3rd)

  • Morgan Leichty (4th)

  • Dillon Layman (5th)

  • Rachelle Leichty (6th)

  • Makinley Davis (9th)

  • Adelyn Huston (8th)

  • Luke Adam (2nd)

• Dorset Market Lamb:
  Champion – Morgan Leichty
  Reserve Champion – Ella Leyh

• Hampshire Market Lamb:
  Champion – Ava Greiner
  Reserve Champion – Ella Greiner
  Grand Champion Individual Market Lamb – Ava Greiner
  5th Overall Market Lamb – Ella Greiner
  4th Overall Market Lamb – Ava Greiner

• Natural Market Lamb:
  Champion – Emma Greiner
  Reserve Champion – Conner Leyh
  Reserve Grand Champion Individual Market Lamb – Emma Greiner
  6th Overall Market Lamb – Conner Leyh

• Speckle Market Lamb:
  Champion – Rena Lyle
  Reserve Champion – Caedyn Huston
  8th Overall Market Lamb – Rena Lyle
  10th Overall Market Lamb – Caedyn Huston

• All Other Breeds:
  Champion – Ava Greiner
  Reserve Champion – Makinley Davis
  4th Overall Market Lamb – Ava Greiner
  9th Overall Market Lamb – Makinley Davis

• Crossbred Market Lamb:
  Champion – Ella Greiner
  Reserve Champion – Morgan Leichty
  3rd Overall Market Lamb – Ella Greiner
  7th Overall Market Lamb – Morgan Leichty
  Champion Senior Premier Exhibitor – Adelyn Huston
  Champion Junior Premier Exhibitor – Callie Brink

Pair of Lambs Results:

• Champion – Adelyn Huston

• Reserve Champion – Brysen Davis

Premier Exhibitor & Showmanship Honors:

• Champion Senior Showmanship – Jack Greiner

• Champion Intermediate Showmanship – Emma Greiner

• Champion Junior Showmanship – Callie Brink

• Champion Intermediate Premier Exhibitor – Ellyana Hahn

• Champion Senior Premier Exhibitor – Adelyn Huston

• Champion Junior Premier Exhibitor – Callie Brink

• Champion Top Gun Showmanship – Morgan Leichty

Washington County youth continue to uphold the strong tradition of agriculture and livestock excellence, and this year’s fair offered a clear example of their commitment and talent.