IGHSAU’s Basketball Survey Results Summary

By Slaten Swords · Thursday, April 24th, 2025 at 2:06 pm CDT

Prep Girls’ Basketball- The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) made the results from their basketball survey sent to coaches and activities directors back in March public and here’s some of the takeaways from the survey.

Declining Participation?

Two questions centered around the issue of declining participation numbers for basketball. One dealt with the statewide cause and the other focused on why numbers may be down at the respondent’s school.

There were nine total choices: basketball is difficult, long season, conflicts with club volleyball, other sports or activities, playing time, time constraints, burn out, girls are weeded out early on, or other, and the respondent was to check all that apply.

Interestingly, around 90% of respondents thought statewide participation was down due to conflicts with club volleyball with basketball being a difficult sport coming in second around 75%. None of the other reasons crossed 50%.

Shifting to locality centered thinking, club volleyball conflicts shrunk to around 60%, while basketball difficulty hovered around 70% overtaking the main reason for respondents when it came to their school.

Family Week?

The most divisive question was if the respondents were in favor of implementing a “family week” from Christmas Eve to January 1st with 55.79% of respondents saying no to the family week.

HUDL

Most feel comfortable with the HUDL, a video posting/sharing app for games and highlights, process (83.13%). However, individual responses felt that issues arose with the statewide pool of videos, making it difficult to find film on opponents.

Additionally, a common experience of opposing schools or coaches not posting their film persisted amongst the responses. Another common concern was the cost with the HUDL livestream budgets hovering around $12,000.

How to make the Game Better?

There was a litany of responses for what the respondent would add or change to the sport of basketball with some suggesting the removal of conferences and having a district system or more flexibility for schools to schedule teams of equal talent.

Ironically, the most prevalent answer involved removing something from the game. Coaches and ADs thought it would help everyone if the season was shortened with one suggestion saying to start the season after Thanksgiving and a couple taking the total number of games down by at least three or four.

More

If you would like to see the full results from the survey, then follow this link: Survey Results

Jamie Sue Turner

By Hayden Douglas · Thursday, April 24th, 2025 at 1:33 pm CDT

September 19, 2001 – April 21, 2025

Jamie Sue Turner passed away on April 21, 2025 surrounded by her loved ones, after fighting a long hard battle with kidney disease.     Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 27, 2025 at Snyder & Hollenbaugh Funeral & Cremation Services of Columbus Junction.   Celebration of Life for Jamie will be held from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at the Columbus Junction American Legion.  Memorial Donations are preferred in lieu of flowers.    Online condolences may be left at www.sandhfuneralservice.com.

Jamie Sue was born on September 19, 2001 in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, daughter of Donald Turner and Misty (Jeremiah) Warren.

Jamie Sue loved spending time with her family and friends. Especially out at the farm with her Papa, she was a true Papa’s girl. She enjoyed singing Karaoke with her dad, aunts & uncles and jamming out in the car with her mom. She was the happiest when she was surrounded by her siblings, they enjoyed laughing and cracking jokes. She had the best sense of humor and always brought laughter to any situation.

Jamie Sue was one of nine children; Amanda (Shawn) Port, Brandon Turner, Andrea (Zach) Murphy, Jeremy Utteridge, Bethany (Logan) Sickels, Bubba (Jeremiah), Ben and Eli Warren. She adored being an aunt to her nieces and nephews. Olivia, Gage & Wyatt Port, Serenitie Turner, Zoey & Nile Murphy, Kade Kelso, Kayler, Kash, Karter & Kimber Utteridge, and Memphis, Houston & Tulsa Sickels.

Jamie Sue was proceeded in death by her grandfathers, Dale Turner and Larry Hurr.

Jamie Sue was the true meaning of “Turner Strong” and our little hero.

Henry County Emergency Management – Proposed Burn Ordinance Update

By Hayden Douglas · Thursday, April 24th, 2025 at 10:38 am CDT

Henry County Emergency Management – Proposed Burn Ordinance Update (Walt Jackson)

Walt Jackson presented a proposed county fire ordinance aimed at improving communication and safety around controlled burns in Henry County. He emphasized that while initiating a burn ban through the State Fire Marshal’s Office is a fairly straightforward process, the greater challenge is determining when to lift the ban, especially with fluctuating weather forecasts.

The proposed ordinance would:

  • Require residents to notify dispatch before any open burning, providing details such as name, location, contact info, and a fire mitigation plan.
  • Automatically trigger a county burn ban whenever a Red Flag Warning is issued by the National Weather Service—allowing for quicker, more responsive safety measures without waiting for state approval.
  • Reduce unnecessary fire department callouts, which frequently happen when control burns are mistaken for emergencies.
  • Include penalties for non-compliance, with escalating consequences for repeat offenders—ranging from warnings to fines and reimbursement of equipment costs at FEMA rates if departments sustain losses (e.g., hoses or blowers damaged during repeat calls).
  • Provide exemptions for recreational fires, burning barrels with approved screens, and other low-risk activities.
  • Allow for coordination with fire departments for burning during narrow windows required by conservation programs such as CRP (Conservation Reserve Program), with discretion left to fire officials.

The ordinance has support from fire chiefs, law enforcement, and the County Attorney’s Office, and a draft has been reviewed and revised.

Next steps would include a public hearing, followed by the typical ordinance process including readings and a vote.

Jackson noted neighboring counties, including Washington, Des Moines, and Jefferson, are pursuing or have implemented similar ordinances to create regional consistency for landowners who manage property in multiple counties.

Henry County Board of Supervisors Approves Permits, Reviews Fellowship Cup Agreement, and Prepares for Seasonal Hiring

By Hayden Douglas · Thursday, April 24th, 2025 at 10:37 am CDT

The Henry County Board of Supervisors met Thursday morning for a regular session, addressing a variety of county business ranging from infrastructure projects and utility permits to seasonal hiring and community support agreements.

Infrastructure and Maintenance Updates

The board heard from County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss, who provided an extensive update on road maintenance and utility permits. Hotchkiss reported that seven new utility permits had been issued to KCTC for fiber installation across various county roads, including Benton Avenue, 270th Street, Dakota Avenue, and several others. “There’s a lot of fiber going in on the southern side of the county,” he noted.

Hotchkiss also announced a right-of-way permit for a paved entrance on Franklin Avenue. The contractor began work this week due to favorable weather conditions.

In maintenance news, a significant project on Henry-Lee Street involved replacing a large 66-inch crossroad pipe. Crews completed excavation and backfill, with slope work continuing into the week. Meanwhile, on Old Highway 34, seeding has been completed, and crews are now waiting for drier conditions to lay erosion control matting.

Hotchkiss also reported on continued work by Norris Asphalt and Helms Construction for a future project slated to begin in mid-May. The county has processed nearly 50,000 tons of roadstone from its Dowstone operation, nearly halfway to its production goal.

Additionally, the county will begin advertising for a part-time seasonal equipment operator position, largely used for mowing and pipe crew assistance. The role has no benefits and is considered temporary, often filled by retirees or part-time workers.

Fellowship Cup Agreement Renewed

Supervisors unanimously approved the annual agreement with Fellowship Cup, a Mount Pleasant-based food assistance organization. The county contributes $500 per month—$6,000 annually—from general assistance funds to support local families in need.

The agreement, which has existed since the inception of Fellowship Cup, outlines the county’s expectations and the data provided in return—such as the number of households served and the cost of food. General Assistance Coordinator Sarah Berndt confirmed that the funds are separate from the $1,500 annually given to the Southeast Iowa Food Bank.

General Assistance and Department Transition

Sarah also presented her monthly report, noting a spike in General Assistance activity with 16 client contacts over the past 30 days. Reasons for ineligibility included income limits and overdue bills. She noted that six direct cremation funds had been used, prompting her to notify local funeral homes that only four remain in the yearly allocation.

The board discussed the ongoing transition of General Assistance responsibilities  under Public Health. Berndt confirmed that all documents and forms have been shared, and staff are ready for a smooth hand off.

The session concluded with no major public comments.

Salem Launches New Friday Evening Farmers’ Market Starting May 23

By Hayden Douglas · Thursday, April 24th, 2025 at 6:58 am CDT

Salem, Iowa – A fresh opportunity for local produce, crafts, and community connection is coming to Salem this summer. The Salem Farmers’ Market is making its debut and will be held every Friday evening from 4:30 to 7:30 PM, starting May 23 through October 3, 2025—weather permitting.

The weekly market aims to bring together local growers, artisans, and families for a relaxed and vibrant evening atmosphere in the heart of town.

Organizers are now welcoming vendor applications. Interested individuals can apply by filling out a short online form here: Vendor Application. All applicants are strongly encouraged to read the Vendor Information, Rules & Agreement document beforehand, which can be found at Vendor Info & Rules.

For those who prefer a paper copy or need assistance finding specific details, the City Clerk at Salem City Hall is available during regular business hours to answer questions about the market.

Sports, April 24th

By Slaten Swords · Thursday, April 24th, 2025 at 6:24 am CDT

High School Track

The Mt. Pleasant and Mediapolis girls’ teams will travel to Washington to participate in an invitational tonight.

Central Lee, Wapello, Van Buren County, Columbus, and West Burlington/Notre Dame will travel to compete in the Gardner-Wilson Relays at Louisa-Muscatine High School tonight.

The Mt. Pleasant, Fairfield, and Mediapolis boys’ teams will compete in the Ike Ryan Relays at Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont High School tonight.

Winfield-Mt. Union will celebrate their senior night today at the Pankoke Relays with Danville, New London, and WACO making the trip.

The Fairfield girls’ team will compete in the Golden Hawk Relays tonight at Mid-Prairie High School.

The 115th Drake Relays will get underway for our local high school athletes today. KILJ 105.5 FM, kilj.com, will be giving updates throughout the multi-day event. For a full list of all of our local athletes competing, follow this link: Drake Relays Roster. 

The field events this afternoon will be our focus for today with Kylee Hill of Burlington throwing the discus and Washington’s Greyson Hartman heaving the shot put. The high jump will feature three members of the Southeast Conference in Fairfield’s Eli Zillman and Ryan Giberson along with Kenden Bowie of Fort Madison. Lastly, Mt. Pleasant’s Avin Truong will be competing in the long jump.

High School Tennis

The Mt. Pleasant boys’ team defeated Fort Madison last night 8-1 to improve to 4-0 on the season. Lou Schimmelpfennig and Elijah Rynders shutout their opponent to win their singles showdown, while Max Heater glided to an 8-2 final against James Janic. The team of Dane Cook and Rynders escaped with a narrow 8-6 win in their doubles match.

Mt. Pleasant will take on Keokuk tonight with the girls’ team on the road and the boys’ team at home.

The Fairfield girls’ team will face off against Maharishi tonight at home, while the boys’ team will attempt to host Mt. Pleasant tomorrow, April 25th.

High School Golf

Wapello hosted their invite yesterday and the Highland girls’ team dominated their way to a nearly 30-stroke lead, while the Hillcrest Academy boys’ team handled business, shooting a 330 for the victory. Emmalin Marshall’s nine-hole score of 92 led the Arrows to a 2nd place team score of 414. Columbus grabbed 3rd place followed by Burlington Notre Dame and Winfield-Mt. Union took 6th place with a team score of 474.

On the boys’ side, the Wolves slotted themselves into 2nd place with a solid team score of 358. In a distant 3rd place was Wapello with a team score of 404 as Barrett Garrison carded an 87. Columbus and Danville, separated by a stroke, finished in 4th and 5th place, respectively. Danville’s Mattix Furnald turned in an 83 for the nine-hole course.

WACO will face off against Columbus today at home. 

Winfield-Mt. Union will hit the road to compete against Louisa-Muscatine tonight. 

Wapello will take on Columbus on Monday, April 28th, at home.

Danville will make the trip to Central Lee on Monday to play at the Green Acres Country Club.

The Mt. Pleasant girls’ team will travel to compete in the Oskaloosa Invite today. 

The Fairfield girls’ team will hit the road to participate in the Golden Hawk Invitational today. 

Mediapolis will host Holy Trinity Catholic today.

The Van Buren County and Burlington Notre Dame boys’ teams will participate in the Davis County Invitational today.

The Fairfield boys’ team will host an invite tomorrow, April 25th, with Mt. Pleasant and Van Buren County making the trip.  

New London will face off against Winfield-Mt. Union tomorrow on the road. 

High School Soccer

The WACO boys’ team will take on Highland on the road tonight at 5 pm.

Burlington Notre Dame will square off against Wapello tonight on the road with girls’ teams playing first at 5 pm with the boys game to follow.

Fairfield will take on Burlington tonight at 5 pm with the girls’ team at home and the boys’ team on the road.

Columbus will host Central Lee at the Muscatine Soccer Complex tonight with the girls’ teams playing at 5 pm and the boys’ teams to follow at 7 pm.

Mt. Pleasant will square off against Fort Madison tonight with the boys at home and the girls on the road. 

The Mediapolis girls’ team will take on Monmouth-Roseville tomorrow, April 25th, on the road at 5 pm. The Mediapolis boys’ team will travel to WACO on Monday, April 28th, at 5 pm.

The Danville boys’ team will travel to Hillcrest Academy tomorrow at 5 pm.

High School Girls’ Wrestling

The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) first sanctioned girls’ wrestling for the 2022-23 season, then followed that up with the addition of two classes in last year’s state tournament. As the sport continues to rapidly grow, the IGHSAU approved the implementation of a girls wrestling state dual tournament for the 2026-27 season.

The tentative date for the dual state qualifying meets is January 18th, 2027, with state to follow on January 22nd. The number of classes and the venue will be announced at a later time. The state dual tournament will commence before the individual state qualifying meets, similar to Iowa high school boys’ wrestling.

Southeastern Community College                                                     

The softball team ends the regular season with a bitter taste, getting swept by Indian Hills Community College on the road. The ICCAC Player of the Week, Jeliane Stewart, nearly brought the Blackhawks back herself in game one, swatting a three-run shot in the top of the sixth to go down a run; but, the offense could not capitalize on the Freshman’s sixth home run in seven games as they went down 4-3. Game two was a struggle in the circle, allowing double-digit runs for the first time since April 12th in a 13-3 final. 

The baseball team swept Des Moines Area Community College in front of the home crowd yesterday, slugging the Bears 13-3 in game one and sneaking away with game two 13-10. The Blackhawks will travel to Southwestern Community College on Saturday, April 26th, for the first two games of a three-game series.

This Day in Sports History

1956 – AL umpire Frank Umont is the first to wear glasses in a regular season game. 

1963 – Future Basketball Hall of Fame point guard Bob Cousy plays his last NBA game for Boston as the Celtics beat the LA Lakers, 112-109, in Game 6 for their 5th straight NBA Championship.

1981 – Bill Shoemaker wins his 8,000th race, 2,000 more than any other jockey at the time.

Burlington Police Investigate Shooting on Oak Street

By Hayden Douglas · Thursday, April 24th, 2025 at 6:17 am CDT

BURLINGTON, IA — The Burlington Police Department is investigating a shooting that occurred late Wednesday morning in the 1200 block of Oak Street. Officers responded to the scene at approximately 11:30 a.m. on April 23 following reports of an adult male who had been shot in the leg.

When officers arrived, they found the victim conscious and immediately provided medical aid. The man was then transported by ambulance to Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center, where he was treated for two gunshot wounds. Authorities confirmed the injuries are non-life-threatening.

Through the initial investigation, officers determined that the suspect was known to the victim. The suspect reportedly fled the scene prior to the officers’ arrival.

The case remains under active investigation by the Burlington Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Burlington Police Department at (319) 671-7001 or Crime Stoppers at (319) 753-6835. Tips to Crime Stoppers that lead to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.

Authorities remind the public that a criminal charge is merely an accusation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

High School Girls’ State Dual Wrestling Coming to Iowa for the 2026-27 Season

By Slaten Swords · Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025 at 4:19 pm CDT

Prep Girls’ Wrestling- High School girls’ wrestling has been growing exponentially across the nation, but especially here in Iowa with the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) first sanctioning it for the 2022-2023 season then expanding it to two classes this past season.

Now, the IGHSAU has approved the implementation of a girls wrestling state dual tournament for the 2026-27 season.

“A state dual meet tournament is something that our wrestling schools have wanted,” said IGHSAU Executive Director Erin Gerlich. “The impressive growth of girls wrestling in Iowa along with more schools being able to field a full roster of wrestlers in every weight class shows that girls wrestling is ready for a dual team tournament.”

The tentative date for the dual state qualifying meets is January 18th, 2027, with state to follow on January 22nd. The number of classes and the venue will be announced at a later time. The state dual tournament will commence before the individual state qualifying meets, similar to Iowa high school boys’ wrestling.