Author: Kadie Johannson

On Thursday, April 2, Chuck Grassley visited Mount Pleasant to tour MackayMitchell Envelope Company and hold a question-and-answer session with employees as part of his 99-county tour of Iowa. The Q&A was held from 2:15 to 3:15 p.m. at the company’s facility on East Mackay Avenue.

During the visit, Grassley toured the production floor with President and Chief Operating Officer David Mitchell. The company, founded by Harvey Mackay, now 93, remains family-led, with Scott Mitchell serving as CEO and his son, David Mitchell, overseeing day-to-day operations.

One highlight of the tour was a look at one of the company’s newest investments — a 628 machine. Purchased in 2023 for approximately $3.5 million, the machine requires just two operators and can produce up to 1,000 envelopes per minute. It can print an envelope with five colors, embossing, varnishing, and a window in a single run. In 2025 alone, the machine produced roughly 250 million envelopes.

Mitchell, who also serves as chairman of the national Envelope Manufacturers Association, was joined by the organization’s president, Marie Clark of Washington, D.C. Clark said her goal is to help federal decision-makers better understand the day-to-day realities on manufacturing floors and how policies made in Washington impact workers and businesses across the country.

An estimated 80 to 100 employees attended the Q&A, raising questions about major issues affecting both their jobs and the industry. Topics included political partisanship, the sustainability of and rising United States Postal Service rates, and increasing fuel costs, among others.

While the discussion was productive, company leaders emphasized ongoing challenges facing production. Rising diesel prices continue to drive up transportation costs, impacting operations in real time as products are shipped nationwide. Tariffs have also affected production. Global tensions, including conflict involving Iran, were cited as concerns, particularly regarding the availability of raw materials used in adhesives and inks that move through the Strait of Hormuz.

At the same time, increasing costs tied to the United States Postal Service are making traditional mail less attractive for MackayMitchell’s customers. Postage rates have risen roughly 30 percent over the past five years, creating what Mitchell described as a “death by a thousand cuts” — gradually shrinking the company’s competitive position in the marketplace.

Grassley addressed those concerns by emphasizing that the Postal Service remains a bipartisan priority in Washington. He noted that lawmakers on both sides of the aisle recognize it as a critical piece of the nation’s infrastructure, particularly for rural communities that rely on consistent and reliable delivery.

When asked about the future of the company, Mitchell said he anticipates a return to balance and equilibrium as market pressures stabilize. He also pointed to the long-standing trust Americans place in the mail system — built over more than 250 years — especially at a time when scams and AI-driven impersonations are on the rise, emphasizing that reliability and security continue to make traditional mail an essential form of communication

Mitchell says in an era of scams and AI impersonation, the U.S. mail and paper-based communication still delivers something rare—trust—and remains vital to rural America; a sentiment Senator Grassley shared during his comments.

The Tri-State Rodeo Operating Committee is thrilled to unveil the star-studded entertainment lineup for the 78th Annual Tri-State Rodeo, coming to Fort Madison, Iowa, September 9–12, 2026. This year’s celebration promises bigger thrills, world-class talent, and unforgettable nights you won’t want to miss.

Celebrated as one of the nation’s top five large outdoor rodeos since 2000, the Tri-State Rodeo made history with its induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2025. Get ready for electrifying action as the Tri-State Rodeo and the Jim Baier Chute Out bring the world’s most elite rodeo athletes to center stage!

Bobby Holtkamp, Chairman of the Tri-State Rodeo, shared, “Each year, we pull out all the stops to deliver an experience that’s bigger, bolder, and more thrilling than ever before. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time guest, 2026 promises the kind of excitement you’ll be talking about for years to come!”

Alongside four adrenaline-charged rodeo nights, the Tri-State Rodeo is turning up the excitement with four evenings of show-stopping national entertainment on the Great River Health Stage. And the party doesn’t stop there—each night will keep the energy soaring with electrifying live bands inside the Bud Light Stockyard!

Kicking off the excitement on Wednesday, September 9, the Tri-State Rodeo proudly welcomes chart-topping American country sensation, Niko Moon! His debut single, “Good Time,” shot straight to #1 on country radio, and his infectious, feel-good tracks keep climbing the charts, spreading positive vibes and unforgettable energy wherever they’re played. But Niko’s talents don’t stop at performing, he’s penned eight #1 hits and over 40 major cuts for superstars like Morgan Wallen, Avicii, Dierks Bentley, Pitbull, Zac Brown Band, Rascal Flatts, and more.

Headlining on Thursday, September 10, is Wynonna. Wynonna’s 1992 self-titled solo debut catapulted her to stardom, building on her legacy with The Judds. A five-time Grammy winner and multi-platinum artist, she’s become a powerhouse in American music. Her iconic hits—like “No One Else On Earth” and “I Saw The Light”—and her unforgettable voice have made Wynonna a true country superstar.

Friday, September 11, 2026, features Parker McCollum. Parker McCollum is a country music superstar known for his authentic sound and powerful performances. Named an ‘Artist to Watch’ by top industry outlets like Rolling Stone, Billboard, and CMT, he’s sold out major venues nationwide. McCollum’s award-winning hits—including “Burn It Down,” “Pretty Heart,” and “To Be Loved By You”—have earned him multiple ACM and CMA honors, cementing his status as one of country’s hottest artists.

The Great River Health Stage will closeout on Saturday, September 12, with Brantley Gilbert. Brantley Gilbert, a pioneer of country’s rock-and-rap style, is a multi-Platinum, award-winning artist with over 8 billion streams and seven No. 1 hits, including “Bottoms Up” and “Country Must Be Country Wide.” Known for his fierce independence and high-energy shows, Gilbert has toured with legends and continues to shape the future of country music.

Every night explodes with a thrilling lineup of rodeo events, all brought to life by our legendary announcer, Boyd Polhamus. The excitement continues with the return of Cervi Championship Rodeo as our top-tier stock contractor, and we’re amping up the fun with John Harrison joining as our rodeo clown, Barrelman, and specialty act in 2026. Don’t miss the jaw-dropping finale on Friday and Saturday nights, a spectacular, sky-filling drone show lighting up the arena!

Keep the party going inside the Bud Light Stockyard, where four nights of unforgettable after-parties await! Dance the night away to high-energy performances by The Boys, Brody Vancil & the Burners, and two show-stopping nights with The Bobby Ford Band.

Don’t wait—tickets for the Tri-State Rodeo go on sale Friday, April 3, at 8 AM! Secure your spot at www.tristaterodeo.org or call the Tri-State Rodeo Box Office at (319) 372-2550. One ticket unlocks access to heart-pounding rodeo action, electrifying concerts, and the hottest after-parties of the year!

About Tri-State Rodeo: In 1948, C.E. (Eddie) Richards brought the Rodeo to the Tri-State area, a tradition that has continued yearly, as Fort Madison is home to the best rodeo on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Great Lakes Circuit. Thousands of people flock to the Fort Madison area every year, starting Labor Day weekend, for a week of action-packed entertainment and events. Since 2000, the Tri-State Rodeo has been named one of the nation’s top five large outdoor rodeos and continues to rank first among rodeos in the Great Lakes Circuit. In 2001, it ranked 43rd among the nation’s more than 700 sanctioned PRCA events. No other rodeo east of Kansas City, Missouri, is ranked higher. The Tri-State Rodeo continues to attract the nation’s top cowboys, with competition spread over four nights the first week in September, and big-name musicians headlining the Wednesday – Saturday night performances.

2026 Rodeo Week – Activities Calendar

Saturday, September 5
YMCA Rodeo Stampede 5K (Registration begins at 7AM)
Pancake Breakfast (6:30AM – 10AM) sponsored by Fareway at Tri-State Rodeo Grounds.
Special Kids Rodeo – Pre-registration is required to ensure a t-shirt is on hand. Forms will be available on www.tristarterodeo.org.

Sunday, September 6
Chili Supper (5PM – 7PM) sponsored by Fareway at Tri-State Rodeo Grounds.

Monday, September 7
Little Spurs Rodeo (10AM) – Registration forms will be on www.tristaterodeo.org and select local businesses. Registration opens at 8:30AM.
Pork Dinner (5PM – 7PM) sponsored by Hy-Vee at Tri-State Rodeo Grounds.
Lil Miss Rodeo and All-Around Cowboy (6:30PM) in the C.E. “Eddie” Richards Arena.

Tuesday, September 8
Pee Wee Barrel Race (5:30PM) in the Saddle Club Arena behind the C.E. “Eddie” Richards Arena.

Wednesday, September 9 – Jim Baier’s Chute Out
Tri-State Rodeo Competition Jim Baier CHUTE OUT (Gates 5PM | Performance 7PM)
The Great River Health Stage Entertainment: Niko Moon (Immediately following the Rodeo Competition)
Bud Light Stock Yard Entertainment: The Boys (Immediately following The Great River Health Stage show)

Thursday, September 10 – Connection Bank’s Family Night
Tri-State Rodeo Competition (Gates 5PM | Performance 7PM)
The Great River Health Stage Entertainment: Wynonna (Immediately following the Rodeo Competition)
Bud Light Stockyard Entertainment: Brody Vancil & The Burners (Immediately following The Great River Health Stage show)

Friday, September 11 – Josh Denning & Associates-Ameriprise Financials’ Military Night
33rd Annual Tri-State Rodeo Golf Tournament (8:30AM Registration / 9AM Tee off) Sheaffer Memorial Golf Course
Tri-State Rodeo Competition (Gates 5:30PM | Performance 7:30PM)
The Great River Health Stage Entertainment: Parker McCollum (Immediately following the Rodeo Competition)
Bud Light Stockyard Entertainment: The Bobby Ford Band (Immediately following The Great River Health Stage show)

Saturday, September 12 – Sullivan Auctioneers Big Iron / Cinch’s Saturday Night Finale
Grand Rodeo Parade (9:30AM) – Travels down Avenue G in Fort Madison, Iowa.
Tri-State Rodeo Competition (Gates 5:30PM | Performance 7:30PM)
The Great River Health Stage Entertainment: Brantley Gilbert (Immediately following the Rodeo Competition)
Bud Light Stockyard Entertainment: The Bobby Ford Band (Immediately following The Great River Health Stage show)

Sunday, September 13
Lion’s Club Fly-In Breakfast (7AM – 11AM) – Fort Madison Municipal Airport

The Mount Pleasant Community School District Board of Education held two public hearings during their work session Monday night at the high school media center, giving residents a chance to weigh in on the district’s proposed tax rate and the possible closure of Salem Elementary.

The first hearing focused on the fiscal year 2027 certified budget, including the proposed tax rate. District leaders are continuing to evaluate financial pressures and long-term budget sustainability.

During public comments, Henry County taxpayers raised concerns about the increase in the management fund budget, which jumped $250,000 for this upcoming year.

In Iowa, a school district’s management fund can only be used for specific costs like insurance, legal claims, unemployment, and early retirement benefits—not for everyday expenses like staff salaries, building operations, or keeping a school open.

Superintendent John Henriksen explained the reasoning is due to the increase in insurance costs and liabilities as wind and hail coverage is now excluded from the policy and would cost the district to pay a large deductible in those cases where hail and wind damage is significant. In short, the management fund is specifically tied to “risk of loss”—meaning damage, liability, or financial exposure—not general expenses or cost-saving measures.

A second public hearing addressed a more emotional topic — the possible closure of Salem Elementary School at the end of the 2026–2027 school year. The possible closure of Salem is part of phase two of nearly $1.8 million budget reduction process across MPCSD. District officials note the closure of Salem could save the district just over $523,000. Phase two also includes more staffing and district-wide reductions as well, bringing phase two of budget reductions to an estimated savings of nearly $814,000.

While those in attendance were close to 100 people, around 20 people spoke publicly about their thoughts on the possible closure of Salem Elementary, which currently serves 87 students Kindergarten through 5^th grade. Citizens and parents shared concerns and perspectives as the district considers options in address enrollment trends and facility costs.

One of the first to speak was Salem Elementary school third grader Levi Schinstock. He urged the board to keep his school open. He told the board he loves his school, his teachers, and having his younger brothers in the same building as him— even if they “drive him nuts sometimes.”

Levi’s parents, along with many others, also shared their thoughts. Heidi Shilling, a third generation Salem student, said her family is not new to fighting to keep Salem school open. Her grandmother, her mother, and now she stands up to advocate for Salem Elementary, the school her kids attend now.

Concerns about bullying and student behavior in other attendance centers were a top issue for many parents, with some telling the board they chose to open enroll their children into Salem Elementary to get them away from those problems. Other concerns mentioned the economic strain on Salem, the amount of time children spend on bus routes, and going away from small class sizes, which many parents believe is one of the main reasons Salem Elementary is top performing school in academics.

Following the hearings, the board moved into a work session, reviewing the proposed buildings and grounds project list, along with continued discussion on the certified budget.

Board members agreed with the public that perhaps the management fund budgeted at $1,250,000 could be reduced to $1,000,000, which allows them to lower the income surtax rate. Board Member Craig Hurd noted he’d rather see the income surtax rate reduced than the property tax rate, noting taxing businesses and corporations is his preference over taxing individuals through income tax.

No final decisions were made Monday night. Any action on the budget or the future of Salem Elementary would come at a later board meeting.