Felony Charges Dismissed Against Burlington Nurse Accused of Stealing Medication

By Allison Jacobs · Wednesday, May 20th, 2026 at 11:47 am CDT

A judge has dismissed felony criminal charges against a Burlington nurse accused of stealing pain medication from residents at a Southeast Iowa nursing home.

Thirty-year-old Ashley Bessine had been charged in December of 2025 with four felony counts involving controlled substances, along with charges of tampering with records and dependent adult abuse.

According to prosecutors, Bessine was working at New London Specialty Care when she allegedly took prescribed oxycodone and hydrocodone medications from residents and falsified records to make it appear the drugs had been administered.

Court records allege that in one case, oxycodone pills were replaced with medication commonly used to treat high blood pressure in an attempt to conceal the theft.

However, Bessine’s attorney argued the state failed to meet a required filing deadline. Under Iowa law, prosecutors must file approved trial information within 45 days of charges being filed. The judge agreed, ruling the documents were not approved and officially filed in time, leading to the dismissal of the criminal case.

Despite the dismissal, Bessine is still facing disciplinary action from the Iowa Board of Nursing.

The board has accused her of conduct that could adversely affect patient welfare, failing to properly document patient care, and attempting to misappropriate medications belonging to patients. The board has not publicly released details about the allegations or where the incidents are alleged to have occurred.

A disciplinary hearing before the Iowa Board of Nursing is scheduled for June 26th.

The information was first reported by the Iowa Capital Dispatch.

Grassley Welcomes Southeast Iowa Leaders to Washington

By Allison Jacobs · Wednesday, May 20th, 2026 at 11:43 am CDT

 Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) met with local leaders from Southeast Iowa, including Burlington, West Burlington, Keokuk and Mt. Pleasant, during their annual trip to Washington. The group discussed a range of topics, including energy, infrastructure, healthcare and the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant. 

 

“I had a great meeting with Southeast Iowans today to hear what’s top of mind in their region,” Grassley said. “It’s important I hear directly from my constituents so I can stay informed on the issues most important to them. I appreciate these Iowans coming to Washington to advocate on behalf of Henry County, Des Moines County and Lee County, and I look forward to bringing our discussion to the policymaking tables.” 

 

Jerry M. Smith

By Allison Jacobs · Wednesday, May 20th, 2026 at 11:23 am CDT
Jerry M. Smith, 85, of Mount Pleasant, went to meet his Lord on May 19, 2026.

He was born June 22, 1940, in What Cheer, Iowa, son of Milo and Ruby Smith. He was united in marriage to Joylynn Nichols on April 30, 1960, in Richland, Iowa.

Jerry served his country in the United States Navy, receiving an Honorable Discharge on May 18, 1961.

Jerry worked for National Propane Corp, headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, for 37 years. About half of that time, he lived in various cities in Missouri, Illinois, and Iowa. He served as president of the Iowa LP Gas Association in 1987-1988.

Over the years, he was very active in scouting, wood carving, clog dancing, and square dancing plus a few other hobbies. He also served in various official positions with these groups. After moving to Mount Pleasant he and his wife started entertaining at Assisted Living and Nursing Homes with their musical talent. They also initiated Jam sessions held in Salem and played and sang for several years in Stockport.

He was a member of the American Legion, where he served as Adjunct and Financial Officer. His passion was being a member of the Henry County Honor Guard.

He is survived by his wife Joylynn; two sons Brian (Natalie) of Peoria, IL, Steven (Dena) of Colorado Springs, CO; four grandchildren Daniel, Mark, Rachel, and Blake; one step grandson Connor; two great grandchildren; two brothers LeRoy and Richard (Vickey); and sister Barbara.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one step grandson.

Funeral service will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the Olson-Yoder Funeral Home. Mark Crull will officiate. Visitation will begin at 9:30 until the time of service. Military Rites will be conducted by the Henry County Honor Guard. According to his wishes cremation will follow the service. Inurnment will be held at a later date in the Vernon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Vernon Cemetery. The Olson-Yoder Funeral Home is caring for Jerry and his family. Messages and tributes may be left at www.olsonyoderfh.com

Keokuk Community School District Opening Student Art Gallery Fall of ’26

By Allison Jacobs · Wednesday, May 20th, 2026 at 7:28 am CDT

The Keokuk Community School District is preparing to showcase student creativity in a new way with plans to open a student art gallery in Fall 2026.

The gallery will feature artwork created by Keokuk students and will be organized by the Keokuk High School Art Department. The new space will be located alongside the district’s Collaboration Center inside the Central Office building at 420 North 17th Street in Keokuk.

To help launch the gallery, the Art Department is holding a fundraiser to purchase display materials including frames, pedestals, and other presentation equipment.

Keokuk High School art teacher Leo Clark says donations and sponsorships will help create a professional-quality gallery space for students and the community to enjoy.

Sponsorship levels range from Community Sponsor recognition for donations under $250, up to Platinum Sponsorships of $1,000 or more, which include prominent recognition inside the gallery and at events.

Those interested in supporting the project can contact Leo Clark directly by email at leo.clark@keokukschools.org or through the Keokuk High School ParentSquare system.

The gallery is intended to celebrate student talent while creating another opportunity for community engagement through the arts.

Increased Traffic Expected for Memorial Day Weekend

By Allison Jacobs · Wednesday, May 20th, 2026 at 6:51 am CDT

AAA is projecting a record-breaking Memorial Day travel weekend this year, and Southeast Iowa drivers can expect busier roads as millions of Americans head out for the holiday.

According to AAA, nearly 45 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home over the Memorial Day travel period, which runs from Thursday through Monday. More than 39 million people are expected to travel by car.

While the national numbers continue to rise, AAA says higher fuel prices and ongoing inflation may cause some travelers to shorten trips or stay closer to home this year.

For Southeast Iowa residents, that could mean increased traffic along major routes including Highway 34, Highway 61, Highway 218, and Interstate 80 as travelers head toward family gatherings, campgrounds, lakes, and holiday events across the region.

AAA is reminding drivers to prepare their vehicles before traveling and to stay alert during peak travel times. Traffic experts say the busiest travel periods are expected Thursday afternoon through Friday evening, with lighter traffic expected Sunday.

Officials are also urging drivers to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles and roadside responders. During last year’s Memorial Day weekend, AAA responded to thousands of roadside assistance calls involving dead batteries, flat tires, and vehicles running out of fuel.

Air travel is also expected to remain busy nationwide, with more than 3.6 million Americans projected to fly during the holiday weekend.

As holiday travel ramps up across Iowa and the Midwest, law enforcement agencies are encouraging motorists to buckle up, avoid distractions, and never drive impaired.

Sports, May 20th

By Slaten Swords · Wednesday, May 20th, 2026 at 6:43 am CDT

High School Golf

The Winfield-Mt. Union, Danville, and WACO boys’ teams competed at Oskaloosa yesterday for the Class 1A District meet and the Wolves will be advancing to state after claiming 3rd place with a score of 326.

Winfield-Mt. Union leaned on Justin Knipfer, who finished in 5th place with a card of 77, and Cody Milks, who took 8th place with a round of 80. Danville finished in 9th place as a team, while WACO grabbed 12th place. 

WACO’s Ian Maize and Danville’s Graylon Walker each turned in a card of 83 to lead their respective teams. On the individual side, Max Kruse of Holy Trinity Catholic finished in 38th place with a score of 88, Wapello’s Cully Fry took 77th place with a score of 111, and Rowan Miller of Hillcrest Academy advanced to the state tournament with a runner-up finish of 74. 

The Class 1A state tournament will take place at Westwood Golf Course on Tuesday, May 26th, from Newton.

The Central Lee boys’ team will be heading back to the state tournament after finishing as the Class 2A District Champion with a score of 322 from Heritage Oaks yesterday and for the first time in program history Mediapolis punched their ticket to the state meet with a 3rd place score of 325.

The Hawks had three golfers finish in the top 11, including Carson Morrison and Caleb Larson, who finished with gold and silver medals, respectively, carding a 76 and a 77. Ephram Hallgren anchored the Bulldogs with a 6th place score of 78. 

Burlington Notre Dame’s Sam Yonker will also be heading to the state meet as an individual after completing a round of 77 for 4th place overall. 

The Class 2A state tournament is slated to start on Tuesday at South Hills Golf Course in Waterloo. 

Pella hosted the Class 3A District meet and Washington and Fairfield finished in 5th and 6th place, respectively, with scores of 333 and 353. Rajan Roth of Washington claimed 6th place with a score of 75, just missing out on the cut for state with the third-best score from a non-qualifying team. Drew Conrad finished in 8th place. Fairfield was led by Luke Thornton and Archer Kreuter as the pair turned in rounds of 85 and 86 for 21st and 22nd place, respectively. As an individual, Mt. Pleasant’s Brody Engle took 24th place with a score of 87. 

The Wapello girls’ team will host the Class 1A Region 5 finals at Heritage Oaks Golf & Country Club today with Winfield-Mt. Union, Van Buren County’s Sophia Jirak, and Hailey Wellington of Columbus making the trip.

The Mid-Prairie girls’ team will host the Class 2A Region 5 finals with Burlington Notre Dame’s Alexandria Booten competing today.

The Mt. Pleasant and Fairfield girls’ teams will be heading to Edmundson Golf Course today for the Class 3A Region 3 meet. 

The Washington girls’ team will travel to Stone Creek Golf Club for the Class 3A Region 4 meet today.

High School Postseason Soccer

In Class 2A Substate 5, the Central Lee boys’ team fell to Knoxville last night, 4-0. The Hawks finished the season with a 9-6 record. 

In Class 1A Substate 5, Mediapolis will take on Pella Christian on May 27th at 7 pm on the road. 

Danville will travel to Burlington Notre Dame on May 27th at 7 pm.

In Substate 6, the Columbus/Winfield-Mt. Union boys’ team will hit the road to play Tipton on May 27th at 7 pm. 

Over in Class 2A Substate 4, the Washington boys’ team will square off against Mt. Vernon on May 27th at 7 pm on the road. 

The Fairfield boys’ team will look to knock off Solon in the substate semifinals on May 27th at 7 pm on the road. 

High School Soccer

The Washington girls’ team handled Columbus/Winfield-Mt. Union last night, 5-0. The Demons will travel to Williamsburg tomorrow, May 21st, at 5 pm.

The Fairfield girls’ team fell to Mediapolis last night despite a furious second-half comeback, 3-2. Emma Metcalf scored two goals for the Trojans. 

The Mt. Pleasant girls’ team will host Mediapolis tomorrow at 4:30 pm. The Mt. Pleasant boys’ team will make up their contest against Clear Creek Amana tonight on the road.

High School Track and Field

The Iowa High School State Track and Field meet is scheduled to start tomorrow, May 21st, and run through Saturday, May 23rd, with KILJ providing updates throughout the three-day event.

Some of our local athletes will be looking to defend their titles from last year. New London’s crew of Cale Westerbeck, Gavin Strawhacker, Brigham Porter, and London Franklin will look to run it back in the 4×100 meter relay. Eli Zillman of Fairfield will look to reclaim the high jump title from his sophomore season. Lastly, Burlington’s Kylee Hill is looking to make it a three-peat from the shot put ring. 

For a full list of our state qualifiers, follow this link: State Qualifiers List

High School Boys’ Tennis

The team tennis tournament will begin tonight with Mt. Pleasant traveling to Assumption and Fairfield taking on Central DeWitt on the road for Class 1A Substate 7. 

High School Baseball

Fairfield lost to Oskaloosa last night, 9-3. The Trojans will hit the road to take on Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont tonight at 7:30 pm.

West Burlington will tangle with Fort Madison tonight at 7 pm on the road. 

Winfield-Mt. Union will host Cardinal tonight at 7 pm.

Mt. Pleasant will have their home opener tonight at 7 pm. KILJ 105.5 FM, kilj.com, will be on the call with the pregame show at 6:45 pm. Panther head coach Brent Broeker talked about what he’s hoping to see from his team tonight,

“No expectations at all. We’re going in there just, you know, I want them to play hard, you know, do things right, and have some energy. And, you know, if we come out on top, that’ll be great. You know, I was talking to our assistants, it’s more about this year, especially with our younger kids, just getting them peak playing time and then working for the end of the year and hopefully, you know, by the end of the year, everybody’s, you know, everybody feels comfortable. Everybody’s up to game speed and we can make a run at the end.”

Wapello will get back to action tomorrow, May 21st, at 5 pm at home against North Cedar. 

Van Buren County will face off against Keokuk at 5:30 pm tomorrow at home.

High School Softball

West Burlington/Notre Dame will look to bounce back against Fort Madison tonight at 7 pm on the road.  

Wapello will square off against Columbus on May 26th at 7 pm on the road.

Southeast Conference News

Keokuk announced that Jomarre “JoJo” McNair will be the new head football coach after a year of being an assistant. McNair played football and baseball at Wartburg College, earning all-conference honors as a defensive back, special teamer, and wide receiver. 

In other news, the Central Lee school board favored a move to the Southeast Conference after their workshop on the matter. The board will wait for a recommendation from Superintendent Dr. Andy Crozier to join the SEC at its June 16th meeting.

Local Summer Athletic Camps

Mt. Pleasant girls’ basketball is offering up a camp for any girls’ basketball players entering 3rd through 12th grades from June 23rd through the 25th located at the Mt. Pleasant High School Gym. The camp will focus on the fundamentals and introduce team concepts employed by the high school’s system.

If you would like to sign-up, then follow this link and fill out the form: https://kilj.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/mp-girls-bball-camp.pdf  

Winfield-Mt. Union is encouraging students entering 3rd through 8th grade to stay active this summer with their Wolfpack Performance Training program that will feature 12 dates throughout June and the beginning of July from 9 am to 9:45 am to build speed and agility. 

If you would like to sign-up, then head over to KILJ’s Facebook page and use their QR Code. 

College Baseball

Iowa defeated Illinois yesterday, 10-6, to advance in the Big Ten tournament. The Hawkeyes will square off against Michigan State at 5 pm tonight.

This Day in Sports History

1930 – University of California dedicates $1,500 to research on prevention and cure of athlete’s foot. 

2006 – Barry Bonds (San Francisco Giants) tied Babe Ruth for second place with his 714th career home run.

2015 – The NFL announced that extra points would be kicked from the 15-yard line starting with the 2015 season.

Claudia Elaine Oberman Eldridge

By Allison Jacobs · Tuesday, May 19th, 2026 at 2:16 pm CDT

Claudia Elaine Oberman Eldridge, 84, of New London, formerly of Yarmouth, died Monday, May 18, 2026 at University of Iowa Health Care Center Downtown.  She was born April 23, 1942 in Yarmouth to Jack and Wilma Kepper Oberman. On May 6, 1961 she married Robert “Bob” Eldridge in Winfield. 

Claudia was a 1960 graduate of Yarmouth High School, and attended Medical Technician school in Minneapolis. She then earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science with an emphasis on Spanish at UNI graduating with honors.

She worked as a lab tech at the Independence Mental Health Institute for four years before returning to school.  She then was a longtime Media Specialist and Spanish teacher in the Benton Community Schools, Belle Plaine Schools, and the Mediapolis School District.  She was also an adjunct teacher at Mt. Mercy College in Cedar Rapids.  Because she couldn’t be idle, she worked at Two Rivers Bank in Mediapolis.

Claudia was a member of Faith Lutheran Church, which was very important in her life, and dearly loved working with the little children, especially those who needed a little extra TLC.  She also loved working in the church tent at Old Threshers.

She enjoyed baking, canning, sewing, and tending her flower gardens. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary; Daughters of the American Revolution; and was treasurer of the Oberman-Beck Foundation.

Besides her husband, survivors include her sons Erik (Katie) of North Liberty and Darrick (Amy) of Riverside; seven grandchildren, Lexi, Hope, Faith, LilliAnne, Kahlan, Kameron and Magdalena; two great-grandchildren Cooper and Mayburry; sister Peggy Linder of Dixon, Illinois; brother George (Cindy) Oberman of Dexter, Iowa; sister-in-law Jody (Gary) Sprague of Philadelphia, PA; and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents; sister Patricia Darbyshire; and brothers-in-law Larry Darbyshire and David Linder.

Friends may call at Elliott Chapel from noon until 3:00 pm, Friday, May 22 to sign the register, then at Faith Lutheran Church, 910 E. Maple Leaf Drive, Mt. Pleasant, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm where the family will be present.  The funeral service will be at 10:00 am, Saturday, May 23, 2026 at Faith Lutheran Church with Pastor Michael Scudder officiating.  Interment will follow the service at Shinar Cumberland Cemetery, Pleasant Grove Township.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Faith Lutheran Church.  Online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.

Death of Inmate Cullor Reported in Fort Madison

By Allison Jacobs · Tuesday, May 19th, 2026 at 9:42 am CDT

Fort Madison, Iowa — An inmate at the Iowa State Penitentiary died at 7:12 a.m. on Saturday, May 16th, 2026.

Charles Cullor, age 81, was serving for crimes committed in Tama County.

Cullor’s sentence began on October 31, 1980.