Jane Anne Boutique Recognized as 2026 Small Business of the Year Finalist by Mount Pleasant Chamber

By Kadie Johannson · Monday, May 4th, 2026 at 4:54 pm CDT

Mount Pleasant is celebrating Small Business Week, recognizing the local entrepreneurs who help drive the community forward.

Festivities kicked off today with a spotlight on Jane Anne Boutique, honored as one of this year’s Small Business of the Year finalists by the Mount Pleasant Area Chamber Alliance. Community members gathered to celebrate the boutique’s impact and commitment to local retail.

Jane Anne Boutique is joined by three other finalists: Northeast Animal Hospital, The Shop Dewitt Built, and Mount Pleasant Tire. Each business is being recognized this week for its contributions to the local economy and community engagement.

The celebration will wrap up Friday morning with the Chamber’s annual Small Business Breakfast, where the 2026 Small Business of the Year winner will be officially announced.

Following the announcement, the winner will be featured live on Paul and Kadie’s “Generation Gap” program Friday at 9 a.m. on 105.5 FM and kilj.com

Small Business Week continues to highlight the vital role local businesses play in keeping Mount Pleasant thriving.

Please join KILJ and the community with a big congratulations to owner Kathie Brune and the entire Jane Anne Boutique crew as they celebrate being a finalist for the Mount Pleasant Area Chamber Alliance 2026 Small Business of the Year competition.

Jones Contracting Awarded Bid for Winfield Avenue Street and Trail Project by City of Mt. Pleasant

By Kadie Johannson · Monday, May 4th, 2026 at 2:42 pm CDT

The Mount Pleasant City Council approved a contract for the Winfield Avenue 2026 Street and Trail Project during a special session Monday, May 4, 2026, at City Hall.

The City Engineer reported the winning bid came in about 16% below the original estimate, with two bids submitted. The project includes both street improvements and a trail component, with the trail portion estimated at approximately $478,000.

The total project bid was awarded to Jones Contracting Corp. at $2,475,777. The county is expected to take on about $551,000 in responsibility for the project. The resolution to award the contract was approved unanimously, with a motion by Councilmember Engberg and a second by McWilliams.

Before work begins, the Iowa Department of Transportation must give final approval. Once that happens, the city will move forward with the contractor to get the project underway and completed as soon as possible this summer.

The council is scheduled to meet next in regular session on May 13, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. The Community Development Committee will meet at 8 am at Central Park Coffee Company in downtown Mount Pleasant on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

Robert Elmer Zeh

By Allison Jacobs · Monday, May 4th, 2026 at 1:33 pm CDT

Robert Elmer Zeh, 91, of rural West Point, Iowa, passed away at 6:25 p.m. Saturday, May 2, 2026, at his home.

He was born on June 20, 1934, in Quincy, Illinois, the son of Leonard and Alta Vivian (Slater) Zeh. On December 13, 1969, he married Verla Marlene Gray in Marthasville, Missouri. She preceded him in death on December 24, 2000.

Survivors include his daughter: Susan Raddatz; grandchildren: Steve (Randi) Hunt, Arlen (Lus) Hunt, Toni (Joe) Mecum, Kyle (Jodi) Hunt, Jennipher (Shawn) Burris, Marissa (Mike) Krehbiel, Sara (Klay) Vermazen, Rachel (Marc) Roll; great grandchildren: Cole, Aiden, Kody, Matthew, Tyler, Kaspian “The Boy”, Joseph, Jr. “The Boy”; brothers: Wayne Zeh and Virgil Zeh.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Donald, Clifford; sisters: Dorothy, Phyllis and Nancy.

Robert was a United States Marine Corps. veteran. He began as a shoemaker for the Iowa State Penitentiary and retired in June of 1994, as a corrections officer after twenty-five years of work. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #1287. He found great joy in attending craft shows, where he sold his handmade belts. In his free time, Robert loved watching wrestling and was a longtime fan of John Wayne films and Elvis Presley’s music. He also had a special fondness for his tractor.

A visitation will be held from 12:00 noon to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Schmitz Funeral Home in Farmington, where the family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 8, 2026, at Schmitz Funeral Home in Farmington, with Pastor Larry Wallingford officiating.

Burial will be at Greenglade Cemetery in Farmington, Iowa, with full military rites presented by the Farmington American Legion Richardson – Anthony Post 231

A memorial has been established in his memory.

Schmitz Funeral Home of Farmington is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com.

 

Southeastern Community College Gets Ready for Postseason Baseball and Softball

By Slaten Swords · Monday, May 4th, 2026 at 10:31 am CDT

West Burlington, IA- The Southeastern Community College (SCC) baseball and softball teams are gearing up for their respective Region 11 tournaments after another year of successful play on the diamond, yet both teams are looking to avenge some wrongs from yesteryear.

Softball

SCC has enjoyed a revitalization of their program going back to the late 2010s, picking up their sixth consecutive winning season though this year has been their best winning percentage at 0.674. Their 31-15 record was good enough to secure the #2-seed in the NJCAA Division I Region 11 tournament.

Due to their success, the Blackhawks will get to host their semifinal bout against #3 Indian Hills Community College in a three-game series starting with a doubleheader on Wednesday, May 6th, at 2 pm. On the season, SCC is 3-1 against the Warriors, outscoring them 25 to 8 in their three victories.

However, Indian Hills has knocked the Blackhawks out of the Region 11 tournament in two of the last three years, including a loss in the 2023 championship series. Moreover, the Blackhawks have failed to soar out of the semifinals the past two seasons after being swept by Iowa Western Community College last campaign.

SCC will look to set the tone with Araceli Rivas in the circle as the sophomore posted a 2.72 ERA for the season with a 9-4 record in 21 starts. Amazingly, Rivas is averaging nearly 10 strikeouts per seven innings. At the plate, Logan Kelley has been unstoppable, clouting three triples, 15 doubles, and 16 home runs for a slugging percentage of 0.856.

The winner of the series in West Burlington will face off against the winner between #1 Iowa Western, who touts Burlington alum Saydee Plummer and her 2.47 ERA, and #4 Marshalltown Community College, who went 4-12 in conference play.

Baseball

SCC baseball has been the definition of consistency, although that might be an understatement. The Blackhawks have not lost more than 22 games in a season in the at least the past 15 years, won 50 games last year, and currently rank #7 in the country in NJCAA Division II.

Nonetheless, the Blackhawks are in the same boat as their softball counterparts having struggled in the Region 11 Division II tournament over the last two years. Of course, that was on the heels of winning the Region 11 championship in 2023 over Iowa Central and then going 6-3 in the NJCAA DII World Series before losing to Heartland Community College, 8-6, in the championship game.

The last two years, the Blackhawks have been able to get the Region 11 championship, but Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) shocked everyone in 2024 for the upset victory and Iowa Central got their revenge last year right when it appeared that the Blackhawks were going to rip it away from them again.

Unfortunately, SCC has also faltered in their last two World Series’ trips, going 2-4 with two one-run losses.

Still, this team has positioned themselves for a nice run, garnering the top seed and a bye after going 22-5 in conference and 43-13 overall. Their most impressive run of the season saw the Blackhawks claim 19 straight games from March 21st to April 11th.

This year’s team has been able to get it done in any fashion at the plate with Kam Francois sitting 5th in the conference in batting average at 0.425, while Gavin Awbrey’s 16 home runs have him tied for 7th in the ICCAC and 9th in extra base hits.

Additionally, their 5.09 ERA is the best amongst the conference, even considering #5 Kirkwood Community College, who has the best offense and only eight losses for the season. The Blackhawks will be looking for Kyler Kaczmarksi—3.12 ERA—and Isaac Flamino—4.34 ERA—to have strong outings on the mound to boost this team past an offensive-heavy conference.

SCC will take on either #4 DMACC or #5 Northeast on Friday, May 8th, at 3:30 pm from Merchants Park in Carroll, Iowa in a double-elimination bracket. The Blackhawks went 3-0 against DMACC and 2-1 against Northeast.

The team they never could get past was Kirkwood, getting outscored 35 to 20 in their three losses.

Mark Kimzey Recognized for 40 Years of Dedication

By Allison Jacobs · Monday, May 4th, 2026 at 10:19 am CDT

A Mount Pleasant funeral director is being recognized for decades of service to Iowa communities.

Mark Kimzey of Mount Pleasant was recently honored at the Iowa Funeral Directors Association Convention for 40 years of dedication to the funeral service profession. Kimzey was one of eight funeral directors from across the state to receive the recognition from peers and colleagues.

A graduate of Interstate 35 Community High School, Iowa Wesleyan College, and Worsham College of Mortuary Science, Kimzey has spent his career serving families throughout Iowa. He has worked with Meyer Brothers Funeral Homes in Sioux City and Fullerton-Hage Funeral Home in Charles City, and for the past 25 years has owned and operated Kimzey Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant.

In addition to his professional work, Kimzey remains active in the community through First United Methodist Church, Mount Pleasant Lodge Number 8 AF and AM, Mount Pleasant Evening Rotary, and the Mount Pleasant Chorale. Along with his strong love and support of the community, Mark Kimzey is also a loyal daily listener of KILJ.

The annual IFDA Convention brings together funeral professionals from across the state to share ideas, attend educational sessions, and strengthen their ability to serve families. The association represents more than 650 licensed funeral directors and 300 funeral home establishments across Iowa, with a mission focused on promoting excellence in funeral service.

For more information, visit the Iowa Funeral Directors Association website.

Mental Health Resources Available Across Southeast Iowa

By Allison Jacobs · Monday, May 4th, 2026 at 9:56 am CDT

Help is available 24/7 for individuals and families in need

As communities across the region continue to recognize the importance of mental health—especially during Mental Health Awareness Month—residents in Southeast Iowa are being reminded that help is available close to home.

From crisis hotlines to local counseling services, a wide range of resources are in place to support individuals and families facing mental health challenges, substance use concerns, or emotional distress.

Immediate Help: 24/7 Crisis Support

For those in immediate danger, call 911.

Free, confidential support is available around the clock:

These services connect callers with trained counselors who can provide support, guidance, and referrals at any time of day.

Family & Community Support

Mental health support often extends beyond clinical care:

When to Reach Out

Residents are encouraged to seek help if they or someone they know is experiencing:

  • Ongoing anxiety or depression
  • Difficulty managing daily life
  • Substance use concerns
  • Thoughts of self-harm

Early support can make a meaningful difference, and many services are available regardless of ability to pay.

You’re Not Alone

Mental health challenges affect individuals and families across Southeast Iowa every day—but help is always within reach.

Whether it’s a phone call, a text, or a visit to a local provider, taking that first step can lead to support, treatment, and recovery.

Thank a Teacher This Week!

By Allison Jacobs · Monday, May 4th, 2026 at 9:49 am CDT

This week marks Teacher Appreciation Week, a time to recognize the dedication and impact of educators in classrooms across Southeast Iowa and the nation.

Teachers play a vital role in shaping the future, not only by educating students, but also by mentoring, supporting, and inspiring the next generation. From early childhood classrooms to high school and beyond, their work extends far beyond lesson plans—helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

In local schools, Teacher Appreciation Week is often marked with small gestures of thanks, notes from students, and recognition from parents and the community. While those moments are meaningful, many say the support of families and communities throughout the year makes the biggest difference.

The week also serves as a reminder of the challenges educators face, including balancing classroom demands, adapting to new learning needs, and ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.

As Teacher Appreciation Week continues, community members are encouraged to take a moment to thank a teacher—whether it’s a simple message, a kind word, or continued support for education.

Sports, May 4th

By Slaten Swords · Monday, May 4th, 2026 at 6:35 am CDT

High School Track and Field

Fairfield will host the Brookhart-Crew Relays tonight with Mt. Pleasant, Washington, and West Burlington/Notre Dame competing.

Columbus will hold their Wildcat Relays tonight with Wapello participating. 

Danville and New London will travel to the Highland Relays tonight.

Van Buren County will host their own Co-Ed meet tonight. 

High School Soccer

The Burlington Notre Dame boys’ team split their weekend triangular, losing a tight one to Wahlert Catholic, 1-0, and disposing of Columbus Catholic, 7-0. Tatum Warner, Liam Lowery, and Jordan Edgington each scored two goals and tabbed an assist in the winning effort. The Nikes will host Williamsburg on Saturday, May 9th, at 10:30 am.

The Burlington Notre Dame girls’ team will tangle with West Branch at home tonight at 5 pm.

The Washington girls’ team dropped both games on their weekend slate, losing 4-1 to New Hampton and 7-0 to perennial powerhouse Denver. 

Mt. Pleasant will take on Washington tonight with the Panthers hitting the road as the girls’ teams will lead off the night at 4:30 pm.

Fairfield will face off against Keokuk tonight with the girls’ hitting the road and boys’ team hosting with the girls’ game starting at 5 pm and the boys kicking off at 4:30 pm.

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

The Wapello girls’ team will take on Benton at 5 pm tonight at home, while the boys’ team will compete against Sigourney-Keota at 7 pm.

The Danville boys’ team will host Hillcrest Academy for their senior night tomorrow, May 5th, at 6:30 pm.

Central Lee will face off against Columbus/Winfield-Mt. Union on the road tomorrow with the girls’ teams playing at 5 pm.

Mediapolis will travel to Wapello tomorrow with the girls’ teams leading off at 5 pm.

High School Golf

The Mediapolis boys’ team competed at the Knoxville Invitational over the weekend and the Bulldogs finished in 5th place with a team score of 322. Ephram Hallgren shot a 78 to finish in 12th place followed immediately by Gannon Gunn’s card of 79. 

The Washington boys’ team will host an invitational today with Danville, Fairfield, Mediapolis, and Mt. Pleasant making the trip.

WACO will host Lone Tree today.

Wapello will take on Louisa-Muscatine today at home.

Holy Trinity Catholic will square off against Burlington Notre Dame today at home.

The Washington girls’ team will hold an invitational today with Mediapolis and Danville joining the fray.

The Central Lee, Mt. Pleasant, and Van Buren County girls’ teams will travel to Keokuk for an Invite today.

The New London girls’ team will participate in the Grayhound Invite tomorrow, May 5th, along with Burlington Notre Dame, Danville, and Fairfield. 

The Southeast Iowa Super Conference boys’ teams will meet for their conference showdown on Wednesday, May 6th, at Flint Hills Golf Course.

High School Boys’ Tennis

Mt. Pleasant will look to win the regular season conference title tonight against Burlington on the road. 

Fairfield will travel to Keokuk tonight.

Southeastern Community College

The baseball team demolished North Iowa Area Community College 14-4 over the weekend. The Blackhawks earned the #1-seed and a bye in the Region 11 Division II tournament; they will take on the winner between Des Moines Area Community College and Northeast on Friday, May 8th, at 3:30 pm at Merchants Park in Carroll, Iowa.  

The #2 softball team will host a best of three-game series against #3 Indian Hills Community College for the Region 11 Division I tournament on Wednesday, May 6th, at 2 pm.

College Baseball and Softball

The Iowa baseball team dropped their contest to Illinois yesterday, 6-2, but a 6-5 win on Saturday gave the Hawkeyes the series victory. Iowa will host St. Thomas tomorrow, May 5th, at 6 pm.

The Iowa softball team finished the regular season with a pair of losses to Purdue over the weekend, 6-1 and 7-5. The Hawkeyes recorded 27 wins and 27 losses for the year. 

The Iowa State softball team dropped the rubber match to #22 UCF after beating the Knights 13-9 on Saturday and losing 12-4 yesterday. The Cyclones finished the regular season with a 32-23 record. 

This Day in Sports History

1869 – Cincinnati Red Stockings play their 1st official baseball game, a win against the Great Western Base Ball Club, 45-9.

1893 – Cowboy Bill Pickett invented bulldogging, the skill of grabbing cattle by the horns and wrestling them to the ground.

1984 – Dave Kingman’s fly ball never comes down as it gets stuck in the Metrodome ceiling.