Fairfield, Iowa — On September 2, 2025, the Fairfield Police Department, with support from the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, the Fairfield Veterinary Clinic, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, executed a search warrant at a residence in the 100 block of Cardinal Drive, uncovering severe animal neglect.

The investigation began on August 27, when police received reports that a large number of animals were living in unsafe and unsanitary conditions. Officers conducted a thorough investigation, gathering statements, observations, and evidence that ultimately led to the approval of a search warrant.

Upon entering the home, law enforcement and animal welfare professionals discovered numerous animals confined in overcrowded kennels, many covered in feces and deprived of proper food, water, and care. The living conditions were deemed hazardous to both the animals and humans.

In total, 38 dogs, 10 cats, and 13 various small animals were rescued from the property and transferred to animal welfare organizations for medical treatment and rehabilitation.

The property’s occupants, Ellen Marie Telleen, 44, of Fairfield, and Krysta Marie Telleen, 26, of Fairfield, were arrested and each faces 48 counts of animal neglect, classified as simple misdemeanors. Both were transported to the Jefferson County Correctional Facility, booked, and later released after posting bond.

Lieutenant Joel Smith of the Fairfield Police Department stated, “This was a significant rescue operation. Thanks to the swift action of our officers and the assistance of our community partners, these animals are now receiving the care they desperately needed.”

The Fairfield Police Department was assisted in the investigation by the Jefferson County Attorney’s Office, Fairfield Veterinary Clinic, Animal Rescue League of Iowa, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

Henry County residents are encouraged to “Grow Another Row” this season, sharing the bounty of their gardens with neighbors in need. Through the Grow Another Row and Share with Others campaign, community members can donate fresh produce to local food pantries, libraries, and community centers, ensuring everyone has access to healthy fruits and vegetables.

Donations can be made at multiple sites across the county, that list is at kilj.com

Healthy Henry County Communities reminds gardeners that even small donations make a difference. Whether you have extra cucumbers, tomatoes, beans, or other garden goods, your contributions help put nutritious food on the tables of families throughout the area.

“Reminders: When donating fresh produce, call ahead for hours and drop-off guidance,” the campaign notes. “If you can’t wash or bag the produce, please place it in a cardboard box and be sure to include your name.”

By participating in this initiative, Henry County residents can help neighbors in need while reducing food waste and fostering a stronger, healthier community.

For more information, visit HealthyHenryCounty.org

Recognized as one of the top five large outdoor rodeos in the nation since 2000, the Tri-State Rodeo has reached another milestone—its 2025 induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame. The celebrated event, which also features the Jim Baier Chute Out, continues to draw the world’s top rodeo athletes and fans alike.

“Every year, we aim to provide something unique and enjoyable for our long-time attendees while also attracting newcomers who may not have experienced the event before,” said Bobby Hotkamp, Chairman of the Tri-State Rodeo. “2025 is going to be unforgettable!”

In addition to four nights of thrilling rodeo competition, visitors can expect four evenings of national entertainment on the Great River Health Stage, followed by live music from top bands inside the Bud Light Stockyard.

The entertainment kicks off on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, with country star Nate Smith. In just a few years, Smith has amassed more than 1.6 billion career streams and topped the charts with back-to-back No. 1 singles, “Whiskey on You” and “World on Fire.” Tickets are on sale now at www.tristaterodeo.org

Wapello’s own Lydia Fisher is set to compete for the crown of Miss America later this week in Orlando, carrying with her both hometown pride and pageant history.

Fisher was crowned Miss Iowa in June, marking the pinnacle of a 15-year pageant journey. She became the first contestant in state history to win all four divisions of the Iowa pageant system—earning titles as L’il Miss Iowa in 2010, Junior Miss in 2014, Teen Miss in 2017, and now Miss Iowa 2025.

The Miss America competition runs September 2–7, with the national finals scheduled for Sunday evening. To support their hometown representative, Wapello High School will host a public watch party. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., with the event beginning at 6 p.m.

For many in Wapello, Fisher’s achievements represent not only her own hard work but also a source of pride for the community. As she takes the national stage, her hometown will be cheering every step of the way. You can watch the Miss America 2026 finals for free on the official Miss America YouTube Channel (@missamericaofficial) and on PageantVision.com. The pageant will not be broadcast on traditional television this year.

With only scattered rainfall across the state, Iowa farmers had 6.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending August 31, 2025, according to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. Activities in the field included cutting and baling hay.

Topsoil moisture was rated 1% very short, 9% short, 78% adequate and 12% surplus. Subsoil moisture was rated 1% very short, 7% short, 79% adequate and 13% surplus.

Corn development continued to move forward, with 92% of the crop in the dough stage or beyond. Sixty-three percent of corn has reached the dent stage, which is two days ahead of last year but two days behind the five-year average. Nine percent of corn has matured. Overall, corn condition was rated 1% very poor, 2% poor, 13% fair, 58% good and 26% excellent.

Soybeans are progressing as well, with 95% setting pods. Nineteen percent of soybeans have begun coloring, which is one day ahead of last year but one day behind the average. Scattered reports noted soybeans beginning to drop leaves. Soybean condition was rated 1% very poor, 3% poor, 19% fair, 58% good and 19% excellent.

Oat harvest was virtually complete across the state. The third cutting of alfalfa hay was 87% finished. Pasture conditions remained favorable, with 72% rated good to excellent.

Two employees of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department are facing charges following an incident at a Libertyville bar earlier this month.

According to court documents, Deputy Austin Almon and jailer Dustin Mallinger have both been charged with disorderly conduct – fighting/violent behavior, a simple misdemeanor. The charges stem from an altercation on the evening of August 1, 2025, at the Dew Drop Inn in Libertyville, Iowa.

Court records indicate that both men had been drinking alcohol at the establishment when a dispute arose. Witnesses reported that Mallinger initially pushed Almon inside the bar before being escorted outside by other patrons. The confrontation continued outdoors, where Mallinger allegedly grabbed Almon’s shirt, breaking his necklace, while being restrained by acquaintances. During the struggle, Almon punched Mallinger in the face, causing an injury to Mallinger’s left eye that resulted in bleeding and swelling.

Multiple witnesses were interviewed, with statements confirming that the fighting occurred in public view. Court documents note that numerous patrons and acquaintances attempted to restrain both men during the altercation.

In interviews with investigators, Almon admitted to consuming alcohol and acknowledged punching Mallinger in the face. Mallinger also admitted to drinking but told investigators he could not recall his aggressive actions due to intoxication.

Both Almon and Mallinger are scheduled for court hearings on September 4, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.

The case represents a significant legal matter for the Sheriff’s Department, as both a deputy and a jailer now face criminal charges related to their off-duty conduct. The department has not yet released a public statement regarding the incident or any potential disciplinary measures.

The Des Moines County Engineer’s Office has announced that two railroad crossings will be temporarily closed for repairs the remainder of the week.

According to County Engineer Brian J. Carter, BNSF Railway has scheduled closures at the Jimtown Road and 210th Avenue crossings. The closures will remain in place until Friday, September 5.

Motorists are encouraged to plan alternate routes during this period.

For more information or general questions regarding the project, BNSF may be contacted directly at 815-503-3895.