Prep Track and Field: Heat Assignments and Times for the State Track and Field Meet

By Slaten Swords · Monday, May 19th, 2025 at 2:05 pm CDT

Prep Track and Field- The 2025 State Track and Field meet is slated to start at 9 am on Thursday, May 22nd, and run all the way through Saturday, May 24th, with the last event scheduled for 4:20 pm. With 16 local teams making the trip west to Des Moines, here’s a look at what heat they are in and when their events are set to run.

Girls Class 1A

Wapello’s Kate Lanz will compete in the 3rd heat of the preliminary 200-meter dash on Thursday at 4:20 pm.

At 5 pm, Van Buren County will be in the 1st section of the 4×800 meter relay finals.

Later on in the evening at 7 pm, Alaina Gourley will be running in the preliminary 400-meter dash in the 3rd heat for Danville.

The Thursday afternoon field events at 2 pm will have Isabella Forbes throwing the shot put in the 1st flight. At 4:30 pm, we will see Kynlee Buffington of Winfield-Mt. Union leaping in the 2nd flight of the long jump.

On Friday, May 23rd, at 2:40 pm, WACO will be competing in the distance medley relay finals as apart of the 2nd section.

Winfield-Mt. Union’s Josie Nelson will compete in the 3rd heat of the preliminary 100-meter hurdles at 4 pm. At 5:40 pm will be the 400-meter hurdles finals, which will include Josie Dykstra of WACO running in the 1st section.

Continuing on Friday, the 4×200 meter relay finals will take off at 4:40 pm with Van Buren County running in the 2nd section. The Warriors will then compete in the 3rd heat of the preliminary round of the 4×100 meter relay at 6:20 pm.

Danville will be sporting a team in the 3rd heat of the preliminary round of the 4×400 meter relay set for 7 pm on Friday night.

For the Friday afternoon field events starting at 4:30 pm, Bren Graber will be reporting to the high jump as she enters as the #13 seed. The starting heights for the four classes will all be 4 feet and 10 inches.

To kick off Saturday morning, Danville will run in the sprint medley relay finals at 9 am.

At 10:30 am, a couple of different members of the Southeast Iowa Super Conference will be participating in the 800-meter run finals: Carlee Lunsford of WACO will run in the 1st section and Gourley and Kaylee Snowgren of Van Buren County will be timed in the 2nd section.

Boys Class 1A

On Thursday at 2 pm, Hayden Shelman of WACO and Logan Franklin of New London will participate in the long jump in the 1st flight, while London Franklin of New London will be in the 2nd flight.

At 4:30 pm, Kolton Small of Wapello will throw the discus in the first flight.

Columbus will run in the shuttle hurdle relay at 2:40 pm in the 3rd heat.

Jackson Shacklett of Danville and Muniz will compete in the 3200-meter run at 3:50 pm.

At 4:40 pm, Columbus will have two competitors in the 200-meter dash preliminary with Alexander Rees in the 1st heat and Lamar Ceant in the 2nd heat. Van Buren County’s Lincoln Bainbridge will join Ceant in the 2nd heat.

Columbus will be the lone squad of our local teams in the 4×800 meter relay. Section 1 will begin at 5:50 pm.

On Thursday night at 6:45 pm, New London’s London Franklin will be sprinting in the 3rd heat of the 100-meter dash.

Kohlby Newsom of Winfield-Mt. Union will be up late on Thursday night as the Wolve will compete in section 3 of the 400-meter dash finals at 7:20 pm.

Danville and WACO will tout distance medley teams in Section 2 when the finals begin on Friday at 3:20 pm. Van Buren County will compete in Section 3.

Friday will start with the field events for our local teams, as Louden Husienga will compete in the high jump at 2 pm. The starting height will be 5 feet and 9 inches.

On Friday afternoon at 4:20 pm, Rees and Ceant will attempt to advance to the 110-meter hurdle finals as they run in the 3rd heat.

At 4:30 pm, Small will throw the shot put in the 2nd flight.

At 5:10 pm, Columbus will run in the 1st section, Danville and Van Buren County will compete in the 2nd section, and New London will participate in the 3rd section for the 4×200 meter relay finals.

Into late Friday evening, Danville and Columbus will participate in the 3rd heat preliminary of the 4×100 meter relay at 6:40 pm.

In the last event of Friday, the 4×400 meter relay preliminary will start at 7:40 pm. Van Buren County will compete in the 1st heat and Danville will run in the 2nd heat.

To start off Saturday, Danville will run in the 1st Section of the sprint medley relay at 9:50 am. Van Buren County will wait until the 3rd heat of the finals.

A trio of local athletes will participate in the 800-meter run finals on Saturday at 11:10 am. Nick Powell of Danville was placed in the 1st section, while WACO’s Jude Dykstra and Newsom will run in the 2nd section.

Dykstra and Newsom will not get the luxury of an extended break with the 1600-meter run slated to start at 2:45 on Saturday afternoon with Muniz and New London’s Riley Raines set to join the fray.

Girls Class 2A

Kira Messer of Mediapolis will be the lone member of Class 2A that we will be keeping tabs on as she will be running at 12:50 pm on Thursday in the 1st heat of the preliminary race of the 100-meter dash.

Boys Class 2A

To kickoff Friday morning at 9 am, Mediapolis’ Lathan Keller will participate in the high jump. The starting height will be 5 feet and 11 inches.

Kegan Damico of Central Lee is the lone competitor for the Hawks, and he will wait until Friday afternoon at 12:20 pm in the 400-meter hurdles. He will run in the 1st section.

At 1 pm, Mediapolis will participate in the 4×100 meter relay preliminary as the Bulldogs were put in the 1st heat. Shortly after at 2:10 pm, the Bulldogs will run in the 2nd heat of the preliminaries for the 4×400 meter relay.

On Saturday at 2:52 pm, Simon Wendel of Mediapolis will run in the 1600-meter run finals.

Girls Class 3A

The field events will begin at 9 am with Fairfield’s Elyse Setterstrom throwing the discus in the 1st flight. Brylie Lorence of Fort Madison will wait until the 2nd flight to get her first throw.

To start off the track events on Thursday morning, Washington, in the 1st heat, Fairfield in the 3rd heat, and Keokuk in the 6th heat, will compete in the shuttle hurdle relay at 9:20 am.

Avery Rump and Jordyn Marshall of Fort Madison will display their endurance in the 3000-meter run at 9:55 am.

Mt. Pleasant’s Alex Scott will begin her busy Thursday at 10:50 am as she takes off in the 2nd heat of the 200-meter dash preliminaries. Jaedyn Moore of Washington will run in the 3rd heat.

The second round of field events are scheduled to start at 11:30 am with Camryn Atterberg of Keokuk competing in the high jump. Mt. Pleasant will have both Linzy Striegel and Izzy Sloat competing in the long jump in the 1st flight on Friday.

At 11:45 am, Washington will team up in the 1st section of the 4×800 meter relay finals, while Fort Madison will have a team in the 2nd section.

The preliminary 100-meter dash, scheduled for Thursday at 12:57 pm, will feature two members of Mt. Pleasant with Kiyah Sanders running in the 1st heat and Scott competing in the 3rd heat.

On Friday morning at 9 am, Ella Ensminger of Mt. Pleasant and Lorence will be dueling in the 2nd flight of the shot put.

West Burlington, in the 1st section, and Fort Madison, in the 2nd section, will run in the distance medley at 9:20 am.

On Friday at 10:30 am, Lilly Bergren of Fairfield and Layonna Stewart of Keokuk will face off in the 2nd heat of the 100-meter hurdles preliminary race. Additionally, Washington will tout Leighton Messinger in the 3rd heat.

At 11:15 am, Keokuk will participate in the 1st section and Mt. Pleasant will compete in the 3rd section of the 4×200 meter relay finals.

Same day at 12:10 pm, Bergren and Messinger will meet back up in the 400-meter hurdles finals in the 1st section.

Keokuk will tout a 4×400 meter relay team in the 1st heat of the preliminary round on Friday at 1:35 pm.

Mt. Pleasant and Washington will square off on Friday at 12:50 pm in the 4×100 meter relay with the Demons running in the 2nd heat and the Panthers in the 3rd heat of the preliminaries.

Mt. Pleasant’s sprint medley team will be up early on Saturday with the 1st section scheduled for 9:25 am.

At 10:50 am on Saturday, Fort Madison’s Mara Smith will participate in the 800-meter run finals in the 2nd section.

At 2:30 pm on Saturday, Fort Madison will have both Avery Rump and Jordyn Marshall run in the 1500-meter run.

Boys Class 3A

To start the field events on Thursday at 9 am, Mason Watkins of West Burlington, Kenden Bowie of Fort Madison, Fairfield’s Ryan Giberson, and the defending champion Eli Zillman of Fairfield will compete in the high jump. The starting height will be 5 feet and 11 inches.

The second half of the morning events, starting at 11:30 am, will see Greyson Hartman of Washington will throw in the 2nd flight of the discus along with Fort Madison’s Brayton Schneider.

At 11:10 am, Ryan Bair of Keokuk will be in the 1st heat preliminary of the 200-meter dash.

Washington and Fort Madison will compete in the 2nd section of the 4×800 meter relay at 12:30 pm on Thursday afternoon.

The 100-meter dash preliminaries are set for Thursday at 1:12 pm and Landry Haberichter of West Burlington will run in the 1st heat and Keokuk’s Ryan Bair will sprint in the 2nd heat.

Peyton Lambert of Fort Madison, in the 2nd section, and Chayce Smith of Keokuk, in the 1st section, will participate in the 400-meter dash finals on Thursday afternoon at 1:50 pm.

At 2:20 pm, Fairfield will run in the shuttle hurdle relay preliminaries in the 5th heat.

Friday morning at 9 am will feature two Trojans participating in the long jump in Spencer McCready in the 1st flight and Zillman in the 2nd flight. However, the favorite will be Dayton Lamar of Fort Madison as he will be the last jumper in the 2nd flight.

A trio of Southeast Conference throwers ill compete in the shot put on Friday at 11:30 am. Fort Madison will have Caden Barnes heaving the shot in the 1st flight, while Hartman and Fort Madison’s Urijah Brooks will toss the shot in the 2nd flight.

At 10 am on Friday, Fairfield and Washington will take their marks in the distance medley. The Demons will be in the 2nd section and the Trojans will be in the 3rd section.

West Burlington and Keokuk will compete in the 4×200 meter relay finals on Friday at 11:45 am. The Falcons will be in the 1st section and Keokuk will run in the 3rd section.

At 12:30 pm on Friday afternoon, Logan Hamma of West Burlington and Fairfield’s Dylan Adam will face off in the 2nd section of the 400-meter hurdles finals.

Bair and Haberichter will get to display that speed again on Friday at 1:10 pm in the 4×100 meter relay preliminaries with the Falcons running in the 2nd heat in lane eight and Keokuk taking the 3rd heat in the lane one.

Keokuk was put in the 2nd heat preliminary of the 4×400 meter relay, which is scheduled to run at 2:25 pm on Friday afternoon.

On Saturday morning at 10:10 am, Fairfield earned a spot in the 2nd section and Keokuk will compete in the 3rd section of the sprint medley relay.

Fairfield’s Gabe Tejada will be aiming for the individual championship in the 800-meter run as he will pound the track in the 2nd section finals. Tyler Alderton of Washington will run in the 1st section along with Fort Madison’s Nolan Guzman.

Girls Class 4A

Burlington will be busy in the field events with Lilian Mennen jumping in the 1st flight of the high jump on Thursday at 4:30 pm.

Kylee Hill will be tossing in the 1st flight of the discus at 2 pm on Thursday and defending her shot put title at 2 pm on Friday as the last thrower of the 2nd Flight.

Boys Class 4A

Laderrias Shealey of Burlington will be the lone Grayhound as he will be in the 2nd heat preliminary of the 100-meter dash. The race is scheduled to start on Thursday at 6:52 pm.

Up Next

Stay tuned to KILJ for updates and results throughout the three-day event! We would also like to thank all of our sponsors for allowing us to cover the State Track and Field meet!

Prison Employee Accused of Smuggling Tobacco for Cash at Mount Pleasant Facility

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, May 19th, 2025 at 11:55 am CDT

A former staff member at the Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility is facing felony charges after allegedly smuggling tobacco into the prison and profiting thousands of dollars from the scheme, according to police.

Joseph Martens, 32, of Keokuk, was arrested last month and charged with ongoing criminal conduct, a Class B felony, and possession of contraband in a correctional facility, a Class D felony. Authorities say Martens conspired with others to bring tobacco into the prison between October and December of 2024.

Martens was booked into the Henry County Jail on April 26, 2025, on a warrant related to the charges. He posted bond later that same day.

According to a criminal complaint, Martens received approximately $3,500 in exchange for supplying tobacco to an inmate. The scheme reportedly involved multiple individuals, some of whom used mobile payment apps to exchange money, while others helped distribute the tobacco once it was inside the prison.

When KILJ News Director, Hayden Douglas contacted the correctional facility, he received this response from Zach Carlyle, Communication Specialist with Iowa Department of Corrections Central Office:

Good morning Hayden,

Thank you for reaching out to us. The Iowa Department of Corrections does not comment on open investigations or personnel matters. Thank you for your inquiry, and don’t hesitate to reach out in the future. Have a great day!

The case remains under investigation. This is the second arrest of a Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility employee since the new year.

This incident adds to growing concerns over contraband being brought into Mount Pleasant’s correctional facilities.

MOUNT PLEASANT MUNICIPAL UTILITIES Regular Meeting: 1:00 P.M. Tuesday May 20, 2025

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, May 19th, 2025 at 10:44 am CDT

MOUNT PLEASANT MUNICIPAL UTILITIES                                              Mount Pleasant, Iowa.

                                                                                                                                                                            

 

Board of Trustees:                                                                                                          Regular Meeting:

Dan McCabe, Chairman                                                                                                   1:00 P.M. Tuesday

Harvey Ungerman                                                                                                              May 20, 2025

David George                                                                                                                      (MPMU Conference Room

Michelle Rosell                                                                                                                     located at 509 N. Adams St.)

Mike Tometich

                          

                                                                        AGENDA

 

  1. CALL TO ORDER.
  2. Roll call.
  3. Approval of Agenda.

 

  1. MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS.
  2. Regular Board Meeting April 15th, 2025 – Approval.
  3. Special Board Meeting May 8th, 2025 – Approval

                                                                                                                        

  1. Approval of Warrants.
  2. Treasurer’s Report – Jody Fuller.
  3. 2024-2025 Amended Budget – Review & Approval
  4. 2025-2026 Budget – Review & Approval

 

  1. LEGAL COUNSEL.                                                                        
  2. Attorney – Timothy J. Whipple (Ahlers & Cooney P.C.).

                                                                                         Nate Lucas – General Manager                                                                                                                           

  1. Cedar Lane Well #7 and Water Distribution System Project – Update & Approval
  2. Possible Closed Session with guests to discuss Well #7 litigation-
  3. Motion: Pursuant to Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(c), the Board may hold a closed sessions to discuss strategy with counsel in matters that are presently in litigation or where litigation is imminent where its disclosure would be likely to prejudice or disadvantage the position of the governmental body in that litigation.
  4. Consideration and Motion to Approve legal counsel and staff to prepare documentation declaring Cahoy Pump to be in default of the contract for Well #7.
  5. Consideration and Motion to authorize legal counsel and staff to initiate a claim on the performance bond for the contract.
  6. Consideration and motion to approve legal counsel and staff to negotiate with Cahoy and/or its surety regarding possible litigation and/or settlement terms for subsequent board approval.
  7. AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) – No Update
    1. Board review of the replacement metering project.
  8. Hydraulic Model & Water Distribution Study – No Update
  9. a) Board review of the modeling project.
  10. Hoaglin Dr. Overhead to Underground Improvement Project – Update
    1. Board review of the Hoaglin Dr. overhead to underground improvement project.
  11. Transmission System Power Supply Project – Update.
  12. Status update of the associated 69 kV transmission system power supply work.
  13. Monthly Activities.

 

  1. OTHER BUSINESS.
  2. Other Business, Unscheduled for Consideration by Board of Trustees.
    1. Closed Session will convene w/ guests.
      1. Pursuant to sections of Iowa Code 9 to discuss marketing and pricing strategies or proprietary information related to electric transmission or wholesale power supply.

 

Laurie Greenfield

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, May 19th, 2025 at 10:06 am CDT

Laurie Greenfield, 64, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 15, 2025, surrounded by family and love.

She was born on December 13, 1960, in Washington, Iowa. Laurie’s life took her to many places over the years, each one becoming a part of her story. Though she called many places home, it was in Urbana, Iowa that she and Larry settled and built a life filled with love, faith, and family. Laurie lived a life marked by deep faith, selfless love, and unwavering strength. She was the devoted wife of Larry Greenfield, the love of her life, and a proud mother to her daughter, Erin and son Joe.

A teacher, a graduate of ministry school, and an ordained minister, Laurie spent her life pouring into others with compassion and purpose. Her faith in Jesus was the foundation of everything she did—unshakable even in the hardest seasons. She shared that faith not just through words, but through the way she loved, forgave, and served others. Laurie fought a long, courageous battle never losing her trust in the One who sustained her. Through every trial, she remained anchored in hope, teaching those around her what it truly means to walk by faith. Her strength was quiet but fierce, her heart ever turned toward the Lord.

Laurie was a devoted mother to her daughter, Erin, with whom she shared a deep and cherished bond, and a loving mother to her son, Joe, whose presence she carried in her heart even across distance. She also embraced her stepsons, Justin and Jeremy, with open arms, and welcomed their partners, Zoe and Molly, as part of the family. Laurie loved Erin’s husband, Gabe, like a son, and delighted in seeing her family grow through each unique connection and relationship. Her greatest joy was being “Mimi” to her cherished grandchildren: Wyatt, Sawyer, Owen, Grace, and Hunter. Whether reading stories, playing games, or going on family adventures, Laurie treasured every moment spent with them. She also adored her loyal dog, Bella, and found peace and inspiration in nature especially in the gentle scent of lilacs, one of her favorites.

Laurie was one of many siblings, part of a large and loving family who supported her faithfully throughout her life and especially during her final journey. Each sibling held a treasured place in her heart, and she felt deeply loved by them all. In her final days, she was lovingly accompanied by her sister Crystal, who never left her side—a constant presence of strength, comfort, and grace. Throughout her journey, Laurie was cared for with extraordinary devotion by her beloved husband, Larry. His steady love, gentle strength, and unwavering care were a reflection of the vows they shared and the deep bond between them. He was not only her partner in life, but her faithful support through every season including the hardest ones.

Laurie had a smile that could light up a room – radiant, genuine, and beautifully contagious. Her hugs were never rushed; they lasted a full 60 seconds, because anything less just wouldn’t do. And if you told her you loved her, you had to look her in the eyes because love, to Laurie, deserved your full attention. These small but powerful gestures were her way of making people feel seen, known, and deeply loved. Her joy was real, her laughter was rich, and her presence left a lasting mark on everyone she met.

Now, her battle is over. Her body is at rest, but her spirit is alive in glory – resting fully in the eternal light of her Savior. No more pain. Only peace. Only joy. Only Jesus.

A Graveside Service will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Forest Home Cemetery, in Mount Pleasant, with words of comfort by Terry Jerrel.  A Celebration of Laurie’s life will follow at the Assembly of God Church, in Mount Pleasant. Those who are attending are asked to wear purple in her memory.  A memorial has been established in her memory. Murphy Funeral Home is caring for Laurie and her family.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.murphyfuneralandmonuments.com

TWO-DAY SWAP AND FLEA MARKET SET FOR MAY 23-24

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, May 19th, 2025 at 8:40 am CDT

Get ready to explore treasures and bargains at the Two-Day Swap and Flea Market, happening Friday, May 23, from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, May 24, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admission and parking are free for all shoppers.

Held at the Midwest Old Threshers grounds, this event features a wide variety of vendors offering everything from antiques and tools to crafts and collectibles. Inside vendor spaces under the Wright Family Pavilion have already sold out, but outside spots will be available on-site for $35 per truck and trailer setup.

Vendor setup and pre-registration begins Thursday evening, May 22, at 5:00 p.m. Outside spaces do not require pre-registration—just show up and pay at the gate. Don’t miss this opportunity to buy, sell, and browse during one of the area’s most popular spring market events. May 23-24th.

Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregiver Wellness Workshop to Support Local Caregivers in Mediapolis

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, May 19th, 2025 at 8:39 am CDT

The Mediapolis Public Library will host a vital wellness workshop for caregivers navigating the emotional and mental demands of supporting individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Scheduled for Thursday, May 29th, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., the event promises practical guidance and professional support for both family caregivers and paid professionals.

Titled the “Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregiver Wellness Workshop,” the session will be led by acclaimed educator and author Lisa Santiago, BA, MA, Ed.S. Santiago is known for her award-winning book, “Alzheimer’s: Quick Tips for Caregivers Living with a Wild Raccoon,” which blends insight with humor and real-world strategies for managing the unique challenges of caregiving.

The workshop will provide:

  • Tips to help caregivers stay mentally and emotionally healthy,
  • A 1-hour professional development certificate for attendees,
  • And access to caregiver-focused materials, including Santiago’s book, which will be available for purchase.

This free event is hosted by the Mediapolis Public Library, located at 128 N. Orchard St., Mediapolis, IA 52637. It is open to the public and designed to empower those caring for loved ones with dementia-related conditions.

For more information, individuals are encouraged to contact the library at 319-394-3895.

This event offers a meaningful opportunity for community members to connect, recharge, and gain valuable resources for one of the most demanding and compassionate roles anyone can take on.

New London Specialty Care Earns Rare Deficiency-Free Rating, Celebrates Commitment to Excellence

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, May 19th, 2025 at 8:39 am CDT

NEW LONDON, Iowa (May 18, 2025) — Staff at New London Specialty Care are celebrating a significant achievement after the facility received a deficiency-free designation following its latest annual state inspection.

The rare distinction means the care center met or exceeded all federal and state regulations across a wide range of categories, including resident care, services, and the overall living environment. The recognition followed an unannounced and comprehensive survey process conducted by state inspectors. These evaluations include reviewing records, observing daily operations, and interviewing residents, family members, and staff.

Jessica McDyer, Chief Operating Officer for Care Initiatives said, “To achieve a deficiency-free survey takes a collective effort and really demonstrates this team’s commitment not only to providing quality care but ensuring residents have engaging activities, feel safe, and have an environment where they can thrive,” Care Initiative which owns and operates the facility.

McDyer noted that this is the second consecutive time New London Specialty Care has achieved the designation — a feat that highlights the consistency and dedication of the team.

Licensed to serve up to 46 residents, New London Specialty Care provides round-the-clock support to individuals from Henry County and surrounding areas. In addition to medical and personal care, the facility emphasizes quality of life through a variety of daily programs, educational offerings, and social activities that foster physical wellness, mental stimulation, and a strong sense of community.

Care Initiatives is a West Des Moines-based nonprofit that operates skilled nursing facilities across Iowa, with a focus on compassionate, person-centered care.

Cops & Bobbers Kids Fishing Event Set for June 14 at Heron Bend

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, May 19th, 2025 at 8:38 am CDT

Families across Southeast Iowa are invited to reel in some fun at the upcoming “Cops & Bobbers” kids fishing event, happening Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Heron Bend in Lee County.

Hosted by the Fort Madison Police Department, Keokuk Police Department, and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, this free community event is open to youth ages 15 and under. The fishing kicks off at 9:00 a.m. and runs until 11:00 a.m., offering kids a chance to fish alongside local law enforcement officers in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Participation is free, but registration is required, and space is limited to just 25 children. Organizers encourage early sign-ups to ensure a spot. Those interested can call 372-2525 ext. 279 to register.

Food and drinks will be provided during the event, and while limited fishing equipment will be available, participants are encouraged to bring their own gear if possible.

Sponsored by Axalta and Lee County Conservation, “Cops & Bobbers” aims to foster positive connections between youth and law enforcement while enjoying the great outdoors.

For more information or to reserve a spot, contact Lee County Conservation at the number above.