Henry County Supervisors Revisit Solar and Battery Ordinances

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, August 5th, 2025 at 10:50 am CDT

MOUNT PLEASANT — The Henry County Board of Supervisors held a work session Tuesday morning to review proposed ordinances for solar energy and battery storage projects. While no action was taken, the discussion outlined key concerns and potential changes as large-scale renewable energy development continues gaining traction.

Setbacks and Screening

Supervisors generally agreed that current setbacks—300 feet from homes, 50 feet from roads—are in line with other counties. They also discussed the 15-foot height limit on panels, with questions raised about whether it accounts for sun-tracking systems that tilt. Concerns about glare were addressed, though newer solar technologies appear to minimize reflection.

Zoning and Farmland Use

The board emphasized alignment with the county’s 2017 comprehensive plan, which prioritizes preserving high-value farmland and discouraging commercial development in rural areas. Supervisor Marc Lindeen expressed skepticism about converting row crops to solar, questioning whether it truly reduces carbon emissions long-term.

Residential vs. Commercial Systems

A 100-kilowatt threshold still marks the divide between residential and commercial projects, with larger systems facing stricter regulations. Supervisor Steve Detrick noted Access Energy lacks the infrastructure to support major commercial solar or battery storage developments.

Noise and Environmental Oversight

Supervisors discussed potential noise from transformers and tracking systems, referencing reports showing some units reaching 65–105 decibels—well above the county’s 45-decibel ordinance. They also stressed the need for DNR oversight on floodplain and drainage concerns, particularly for projects like a proposed 10,000-acre solar installation in the Green Bay Bottom.

What’s Next

The board tentatively scheduled another work session for 9:00 a.m. on August 15, inviting representatives from Access Energy and industry consultant Bruce Hudson to provide input. Supervisors want to ensure Planning & Zoning is on the same page before advancing ordinance changes.

James Daniel Pearson

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, August 5th, 2025 at 9:53 am CDT

James Daniel Pearson, 81, a resident of Fairfield, passed away Sunday, August 3, 2025 at Jefferson County Health Center in Fairfield.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Behner Funeral Home in Fairfield is assisting with arrangements.

Jim was born June 23, 1944 in Des Moines, the son of Robert C. and Catherine l. Pearson.

Jim grew up in Des Moines and following high school, attended and graduated from the University of Iowa. Jim served in United States Army, stationed in Germany during the Viet Nam War.  Following his service in the Army, he attended law school at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and graduated in 1974.

He was a follower of transcendental meditation, beginning in 1972 and became a teacher shortly after graduating from law school. Jim oversaw the Fayetteville, Arkansas TM center, and then moved to the national TM headquarters in California. Jim moved to Fairfield in the 1980s and began his law practice, eventually specializing in immigration law helping many students at MIU and local internationals.

Jim loved history, travel, photography, hiking, and Chicago bears. His caring and giving personality will be greatly missed by many.

He is survived by a cousin, Shari Patrick of Washington state, and some dear friends.
Online condolences may be made to Jim’s family by viewing his obituary at www.behnerfh.com.

Sports, August 5th

By Slaten Swords · Tuesday, August 5th, 2025 at 6:39 am CDT

Mt. Pleasant Fall Season Preview

The Mt. Pleasant Panthers are looking forward to a successful fall season with a lot of talent returning to the three major sports, here’s a reminder of what they accomplished last year and who will be returning.

The Panther football squad knocked down a couple of walls last year, snapping a 23-game losing streak, a four-year home and district matchup losing streak on their way to a 4-5 record. The team will have to replace a future St. Ambrose Bee in Payton Walker, who has led the team in rushing and tackles. Look for Ramzy Davis to step up in his senior season as he rushed for 312 yards and six touchdowns in the final five games of the season.

The volleyball team will be loaded with experience after a mostly junior-led team totaled 12 wins, including a playoff victory over Fort Madison in four sets. The Panthers will be leaning on Addison Clark and Alex Scott, two 2nd Team All-SEC members from last year, as they combined for 390 kills. Abby Carthey, who led the team in assists, will also return.

The boys’ and girls’ cross country teams will be looking to make some waves after the two teams graduated a combined three runners. The boys’ team will be leaning on Silas Hulett as he was able to put up a sub-18 minute time. Expect this young team to improve throughout the season.

The girls’ team will be exciting to watch with fresh talent coming onto the scene along with a returning state qualifier in Quintrie Lee, as she finished with a time of 20 minutes and 20 seconds, which was good enough for 63rd place. The Panthers are excited to welcome Avery Fedler, who competed in Seattle for the Brooks PR Invitational in June and took 3rd place in the 800-meter junior division with a time of 2 minutes and 12 seconds.

Local Athletic Camps

Some upcoming camp starting dates to keep an eye on include:

Fairfield’s high school volleyball camp will start tomorrow, August 6th, and run through the 8th with a 6 pm start time. The camp will cost $40 and take place at Fairfield High School.

The Van Buren County football camp will also start on August 6th for 3rd all the way through 12th graders. 3rd through 8th graders will also have camp on the 7th starting at 10 am with a $30 cost, while the high schoolers will go until the 8th from 7 am to 10 am with a $45 cost. 

Lastly, at Danville High School, the Soukup Basketball camp for all boys and girls entering 3rd through 8th grades will take place on August 8th and run through the 10th. The cost will be $60 per camper and you can sign up at www.soukupbasketballcamp.com. 

College Football

Iowa State’s long snapper Drew Clausen has been placed on the 2025 Patrick Mannelly Award watch list, the award given to the nation’s best long snapper. He joined the Cyclones before the 2024 season after three years at the University of Northern Iowa. He played in all 14 games last year. 

The special teams unit will have a spotlight on them as Kyle Konrardy was named to the 2025 Lou Groza Collegiate Place-Kicker Award watchlist after breaking Iowa State’s freshman record 21 field goals and the school record for kicking points last season at 109. 

The Preseason Coaches Top 25 released yesterday and Texas sits atop the standings with Ohio State, Penn State, and Georgia rounding out the top four. The SEC leads the conferences with nine teams within the top 25 followed by the Big Ten with six teams and the Big 12 with five teams, including Iowa State at #21. Iowa was not ranked within the top 25.

Prospect League

The Cape Catfish will travel to face off against the Lafayette Aviators tonight at 7 pm for game one of the three-game Prospect League Championship series. 

This Day in Sports History

1921 – KDKA Pittsburgh presents first radio broadcast of MLB; Pirates beat Phillies, 8-0; Harold Arlin first play-by-play broadcaster for the MLB.

1979 – Pete Rose collects the Nation League record 2,427th career single in a 5-2 home loss versus the Pirates.

2006 – Warren Moon becomes the first Black quarterback to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio; joined by Troy Aikman, John Madden, Rayfield Wright, Harry Carson, and Reggie White.

Preppin’ Mama Represents Mount Pleasant with Pride at the 2025 Open for Business Statewide Contest

By Hayden Douglas · Tuesday, August 5th, 2025 at 6:02 am CDT

Inside the historic Pearl City Station in downtown Muscatine, five inspiring small business owners stepped into the spotlight Monday night to pitch their dreams, share their strategies, and showcase the power of Main Street entrepreneurship. Among them, representing Mount Pleasant with heart and hometown pride, was Preppin’ Mama.

A Local Vision with Statewide Impact
Dani Murphy and her daughter, Tatum Kane, the dynamic duo behind Preppin’ Mama, took the stage to present their vision of a modern homesteading education hub. Rooted in their passion for self-sufficiency and community connection, the Mount Pleasant-based business offers workshops and mentorship programs that teach food growing, cooking, and preservation.

Their pitch emphasized not only their deep knowledge and passion for homesteading but also their commitment to helping others build confidence and resilience through practical skills. With Mount Pleasant in their hearts and the future in their sights, Dani and Tatum made a strong case for how Preppin’ Mama can grow into a statewide resource for education, sustainability, and rural entrepreneurship.

Cheering on Mount Pleasant
The 2025 Open for Business Statewide Contest—hosted by the Iowa Economic Development Authority and Main Street Iowa—is designed to elevate and invest in Main Street businesses across the state. The event drew supporters, judges, and economic leaders from around Iowa to witness firsthand the creativity and determination of local entrepreneurs.

During the evening, Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority, highlighted the vital role of small businesses like Preppin’ Mama.
“Small businesses make up 99% of Iowa’s business community,” she said. “When we support them, we’re investing in people, families, and the very identity of our communities.”

Recognition and Reward
As the judges tallied their results and anticipation filled the room, a surprise announcement added to the excitement. Preppin’ Mama was awarded a tied fourth-place finish, sharing the honor with Torrent Brewing Company of Ames. Each business was awarded $10,000 to support future growth.

Applause erupted from the crowd as Dani and Tatum accepted the recognition, proudly representing Mount Pleasant on a statewide stage. The funds will support their continued mission to expand workshop offerings, increase access to their mentorship programs, and strengthen rural education in food security and sustainability.

Shining a Light on Main Street
Preppin’ Mama’s success is part of a larger celebration of Iowa’s Main Street innovation. Other awardees included DroneEx of Elkader ($15,000), Z’s Pizza & Diner of Waverly ($20,000), and the grand prize winner, The Honey Den of West Branch, which took home $25,000.

But for Mount Pleasant, the night belonged to Preppin’ Mama.

“This wasn’t just about business,” said one event organizer. “It was about vision, passion, and community. And Preppin’ Mama brought all three.”

As Dani and Tatum return home with new support and statewide recognition, Mount Pleasant can proudly say: one of Iowa’s best and brightest small businesses is growing right here.

Marianne Williams

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, August 4th, 2025 at 2:09 pm CDT

  Marianne Williams, 77, of New London and formerly of Mt. Pleasant, died Thursday, July 31, 2025 at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.

Marianne Denzler Williams was born September 28, 1947 in Munich, Germany. She was the daughter of Wendlin and Zenta (Schmaus) Denzler. She attended a business college in Munich. After her education, she worked in a veterinarian clinic in Augsburg, Germany. Marianne was united in marriage to Larry Williams. The couple later divorced.

Marianne emigrated to the United States and became a US Citizen in 1970 in Baltimore, MD. She moved to the Mt. Pleasant area where she lived with her family on a farm southeast of Mt. Pleasant. Marianne worked as a telephone operator for the Contel Telephone Company. In 1980, Marianne opened up a photography studio on the west side of the Mt. Pleasant town square. She operated the studio until 1992. Marianne then owned and operated the 34 Restaurant in Danville, IA. Marianne also worked for REM and Hope Haven.

Marianne was a member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church and sang in the church choir. She was a longtime member of the Mt. Pleasant Kiwanis Club and the former Lions Club.  She was a member of a poetry society and was a former candidate for a position on the Henry County Board of Supervisors.

Marianne loved to work in arts and crafts, most especially knitting. She was an ardent animal rights activist.

Those thankful for sharing in Marianne’s life include her 2 sons – Drew Williams and his wife Kelly Murphy of Rockford, IL and Michael Williams of Hillsboro, IA; 2 grandchildren – Thadius Williams and Ashli McCusker and her husband Michael and a great granddaughter – Rhiannon McCusker.

Her parents precede Marianne in death.

A memorial funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, August 12 at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, 607 South Jackson Street, Mt. Pleasant. Father Ross Epping will celebrate the mass. Friends may call from 12 Noon to 7PM on Monday, August 11 at the Kimzey Funeral Home, 213 North Main Street, Mt. Pleasant. The family will be present to receive friends from 5-7 PM.

Online condolences may be directed to www.kimzeyfh.com

Crystal Ann Reneker

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, August 4th, 2025 at 8:21 am CDT

Crystal Ann Reneker, 78, of rural Douds, passed away Saturday, August 2, 2025 at her home.

A celebration of life will be held at 5:00 p.m. Friday, August 8, 2025 at Oak Grove Church, 15818 Iowa Oak Grove Ave, Douds, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Oak Grove Church or Noah’s Ark Animal Foundation and mailed to the family at 15105 Iowa Oak Grove Ave. Douds, Iowa 52551. Behner Funeral Home in Fairfield is assisting the family.

Crystal was born December 5, 1946 in Fairfield, the daughter of Fred and Frances (Miller) Turner. She married Gary Reneker, April 4, 1970 in Memphis, Missouri.

Crystal worked as a bookkeeper for Iowa Tire Sales and as a LPN for Jefferson County Hospital and Park View Care Center, along with being at home, caring for her family.

Crystal loved her dogs and Christmas. She enjoyed shopping and thrifting. Crystal also loved spending time in Colorado and visiting Estes Park.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Gary; children, Melodee (Randy) Staton of Douds, Johnny (Laura) Mineart of Fairfield, and Tiffany (Gregory Oakes) Reneker of Des Moines; grandchildren, Austin, Jordan, Jacob, Madison, and Emma; ten great-grandchildren; and a cousin, Lucinda Goodwin.

She was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter, Kaitlyn Mineart; and sister, Mona Sue Howard.

Online condolences may be made to Crystal’s family by viewing her obituary at www.behnerfh.com.

Larry Lee “Fuzz” Neff

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, August 4th, 2025 at 8:19 am CDT

Larry Lee “Fuzz” Neff, 86, of Lockridge passed away on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at his home surrounded by love.

Larry was born on August 16, 1938 in Wayland, Iowa, the son of Gerald and Mary (Stalder) Neff.  He attended Wayland High School.  Larry worked at many farms over the years, including a turkey farm, Boshart farm, Don Sheets farm and Mel Jaspering farm. Larry then went to work for Jefferson County as a county road grader for 30 years until his retirement.

He was previously married to Sharon (Layman) Barton and Ruth Ann (McDole) Gugel and later divorced.  In 1979, he met the love of his life, Barbara Gerleman and they were united in marriage on December 12, 2008.  

Larry enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, mushroom hunting, tinkering with tractors, watching westerns and feeding the birds in the winter months.  He most enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and spent many, many Sundays playing cards and enjoying his other “family” at the Eagles Nest in Coppock.

Those thankful for sharing his life include his wife, Barbara, his children, Lynn Neff of Fairfield, Angie (Kenny) Kempf, of Wayland, Maryjo (Matt) Rich, of Washington, and Wendi Neff (Michael) Ulin, of Washington, his six grandchildren, Morgan (Nick) Kaufman, Mason (Haley) Rich, Makenna (Koltyn Niles) Rich, Amiah (Jeff Cox) Neff, Aidan Ulin and Alec Ulin, one great grandchild, Brewer Kaufman along with his honorary sons, Craig Kaufman and Dan Raymond.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandparents, a brother. Rich Neff and by his mother and father-in-law and two brothers-in-law.  Larry’s father passed away in 1944 when he was 6 years of age. Edith and Tom Lowry helped raise him with his mom and he considered them as his second set of parents.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Murphy Funeral Home in Mount Pleasant with Father Nick Adam officiating.  Burial will follow in the Lockridge Cemetery.  Those attending the service are asked to dress casual.   Friends may call after 2 p.m. on Wednesday at the Murphy Funeral Home where the family will be present from 5 to 7 p.m. that evening.  In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to the Lockridge First Responders or to Compassus Hospice in his memory.  

 

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

 

Murphy Funeral Home of Mount. Pleasant, is caring for his arrangements.

Salem Nurse Surrenders License Amid Multiple Allegations of Substance Use

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, August 4th, 2025 at 7:44 am CDT

Jennifer Melcher, a licensed nurse from Salem, has voluntarily surrendered her nursing license following new disciplinary action from the Iowa Board of Nursing involving allegations of drug use and on-duty impairment.

In its most recent case, the board charged Melcher with excessive use of drugs that may impair a licensee’s ability to practice safely and competently. The charge stemmed from allegations that Melcher repeatedly used marijuana and was suspected by co-workers of being impaired while on duty. The board has not released the name of Melcher’s employer, her specific role, or whether any patients were affected.

Without admitting to the allegations, Melcher agreed to surrender her nursing license to resolve the matter.

This is not the first time Melcher has faced disciplinary action. In September 2024, the Board of Nursing charged her with a similar violation, again alleging repeated marijuana use. In that case, there was no indication she was under the influence while working. Melcher accepted an indefinite suspension of her license at the time, with reinstatement contingent upon her being deemed fit to return to practice.

Court records also show a pattern of impaired driving incidents. In February 2025, Melcher was arrested in Henry County after a single-vehicle accident and charged with second-offense operating while intoxicated (OWI). She later pleaded guilty. The incident marked at least her third OWI arrest, with prior convictions in 2010 in Wapello County and in 2017 while she was employed by GrapeTree Medical Staffing. In the 2017 case, she initially faced a second-offense OWI charge but ultimately pleaded guilty to a reduced first-offense charge.

Melcher’s nursing license status and disciplinary history are publicly recorded by the Iowa Board of Nursing and will remain part of the state’s official record.