PORT of Fort Madison Celebration

By Yorke Prough · Tuesday, June 13th, 2023 at 8:35 am CDT

PORT, Promoting Outdoor Recreation Trails, of Fort Madison will host an event on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 to celebrate the completion of the Rodeo Connector Trail, the culmination of ten-years of recreational trail creation in Fort Madison.  The event will take place at the trailhead located by the entrance to the Tri-State Rodeo grounds from 5-7 p.m. The ribbon cutting ceremony will begin at 5:15 p.m. followed by refreshments and entertainment provided by students from the YMCA Test Kitchen STEM Lounge Band. Wilson Brothers will also be onsite selling their BBQ and Hinterland Dairy treats.  The public is invited to attend.

 

PORT of Fort Madison began in Fall of 2013, when a group of community volunteers came together to brainstorm how to make recreational trails a reality in Fort Madison.  The ultimate goal was to improve the physical and economic health of the city with a system of recreational trails to be used by walkers, runners, and bicyclists.  PORT of Fort Madison became a subcommittee under the City of Fort Madison Parks and Recreation Board.  With seed money from RAGBRAI and Lake Cooper Trails Association, the PORT committee began laying out a multi-year plan to achieve their goal of connecting the City of Fort Madison with a safe trail system.

 

Phase one, completed in Summer of 2016, connected Ivanhoe Park to Bluff Road.  Phase two, followed, intersecting Phase one and connecting to 48th Street.  These two arms of the trail system created over a two-mile loop allowing students at the Fort Madison middle school easy access to and from school while also being used for physical education classes.  Area businesses, Wellmark Foundation Grants, SIRRC of Fort Madison, Lee County Charitable Fund and other State and Federal Grants provided monetary support for these projects.  The annual PORT hosted Spooktacular Boo-athlon also brought together local businesses and individuals to lend support to building trails while enjoying a fun family event.

 

In 2021, Phase three of the trail system was completed, connecting 48th Street to the hospital.  This was also the year PORT received a sizeable monetary donation from the FMCH-GRH Community Health Foundation (now Great River Health Foundation) to complete the Rodeo Connector trail – fulfilling the goal of connecting the city end-to-end.  The Rodeo Connector Trail runs from Bluff Road behind Fort Madison High School, up Avenue B to 15th Street – the trail runs along 15th Street all the way to the Tri-State Rodeo grounds.  In addition to the Rodeo Connector Trail, the foundation also provided funding for the trail in Riverview Park as part of the marina project.

 

Beautification and lighting along all phases of the PORT of Fort Madison trails has also been part of the plan of work.  The Rodeo Connector trail beautification was completed by Reed’s Landscaping.

 

“We are so grateful for all of the support we have received from the city, organizations, businesses and individuals over the years helping us realize the dream of a comprehensive trail system in Fort Madison.  When we began this journey ten years ago, we believed it would have a positive impact on the lives of those who lived and worked in Fort Madison, but it is so rewarding to actually see people young and old outdoors enjoying the trail. We hope all those who enjoy the trail will join us for our celebration event,” commented Angie Budnik, current PORT Chairperson.

 

PORT of Fort Madison’s Phase four trail is currently underway – it will connect the end of Phase three at 48th Street to River Valley Road past the Baxter Sports Complex.  A strategic planning session held in January laid out the plan for the next five years.

 

For more information about the upcoming event or to become involved with PORT, visit their Facebook page – PORT of Fort Madison.

Sports, June 13th

By Slaten Swords · Tuesday, June 13th, 2023 at 6:50 am CDT

High School Baseball

Mt. Pleasant was swept by Burlington at Community Field last night as the Grayhounds touted clutch bats. In game one, Mt. Pleasant got on the board first after a leadoff double by Carter Amos and a bunt single by Payson Coleman led to a wild pitch giving the Panthers a 1 to 0 lead. Burlington would score the next four runs to take a 4 to 1 lead. Nevertheless, an RBI double by Jake Ensminger and an RBI single by Payton Walker cut the deficit to one run. The Grayhounds would score 8 runs in the next two innings to win 12-3. Logan Messer went 3 for 4 with 5 RBIs in the game.

Game two started with an offensive showcase and some weak defense as RBI singles from Ensminger, J.C. Sitar, and an RBI double by Amos gave the Panthers a 3 to 2 lead after Burlington responded with two runs of their own in the bottom half of the 1st inning. Zerek Venghaus and Kyler Schwartz then allowed only a combined three hits until the 6th inning. Schwartz helped his own cause by ripping an RBI double then Messer singled home the eventual game winning run to win 4-3. Burlington remains undefeated in conference play. The Panthers will take on EBF tomorrow on the road, KILJ will be on the call, and the Grayhounds will face off against Davenport Assumption tomorrow.

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

New London handed Hillcrest Academy their 2nd loss of the season after scoring 7 runs between the 5th and 6th innings to win 8-4. Memphis Watson had a double and 3 RBIs while Vegas Watson had a double and 2 RBIs. The Tigers will take on Danville tonight on the road.

Mediapolis will travel to take on Fort Madison tonight at 7 pm.

Central Lee handled Wapello last night 15-0. Bo Herdrich led the way for the Hawks with a 3 RBI double. Landon Rudd, Corbin Pohren, and Kayden Ames each collected 2 RBIs. The Hawks will face off against Burlington Notre Dame tonight with first pitch at 5:30 pm.

Van Buren County moves to 14-1 on the season after defeating Lousia-Muscatine 10 to 1 last night. Sam Warth went 2 for 4 with 4 RBIs in the win. The Warriors will take on West Burlington today on the road. 

In Southeast Iowa conference (SEC) play, Fairfield swept Washington last night 1-0 in game one and 5-4 in game two after extra innings. Tallon Bates finished 2 for 3 with an RBI in game two. The conference series will be picked up on Thursday, June 15th.

High School Softball

Mt. Pleasant fell to Burlington in both games of their doubleheader yesterday 4-0 in game one and 12-0 in game two. Addison Clark went 1 for 3 in game one with Tyi Alter going 4 innings allowing only one run off of four hits. Jersey Beach and Jolynn Martin each went 1 for 1 in game two. The Panthers will have a rematch with the Grayhounds on Thursday, June 15th.

Van Buren County lost to Louisa-Muscatine in a high scoring game 12-8 last night. Ivy Davison smacked a home run with 4 RBIs in the losing effort. The Warriors will travel to take on West Burlington tonight at 7 pm.

New London lost to Hillcrest Academy yesterday 16-6. The Tigers will take on Danville tonight on the road. 

Winfield-Mt. Union could not stop scoring last night as they took down Danville 21-7. Anna Anderson went yard and Joise Nelson and Quin Smith tied for the team lead in RBIs with 3 apiece. The Wolves will face off against Wapello tonight at home.

Central Lee defeated Wapello 6-2. The Hawks will host Holy Trinity Catholic tonight.

Mediapolis fell to Highland 13-1. The Bulldogs will take on Pekin tomorrow, June 14th.

In SEC games, Washington swept Fairfield last night 11-9 in game one and 6-1 in game two. Fort Madison needed extras in game one to win 16-11 as they swept Keokuk after winning 5-0 in game two. Both series pick up on June 15th.

This Day in Sports History

1973 – The Los Angeles Dodgers had a lineup that included Steve Garvey at first base, Davey Lopes at second base, Ron Cey at third base and Bill Russell playing shortstop in the second game of a doubleheader against the Cincinnati Reds. First game of a record 8.5 years playing with the same infield.

2002 – Stanley Cup Final, Joe Louis Arena, Detroit, MI: Detroit Red Wings beat Carolina Hurricanes, 3-1 for a 4-1 series win; Red Wings’ 10th title; coach Scotty Bowman retires with record 9th title.

2019 – NBA Finals: Toronto Raptors beat defending champion Golden State Warriors, 114-110 to win franchise’s first Championship; last game at Oracle Arena, Oakland; MVP: Kawhi Leonard.

Road Closure June 13th

By Yorke Prough · Monday, June 12th, 2023 at 3:54 pm CDT

“Starting Tuesday June 13th Jones Contracting will be closing all of Henry St. from Just West of Marion St. to N. Broadway. They will be setting up string lines to start trimming the subbase. Once all the trimming is completed. They will start paving from N. Broadway St. to the West later this week or the first of next week weather permitting. Hopefully, all goes well and Jones Contracting will pour all of W. Henry St. in one day. Once the Concrete reaches maturity in 2 to 3 days crews will start pouring the driveways back and sidewalks to follow. W. Henry St. will not be open to traffic once it closes tomorrow until the paving is completed and has reached maturity. Garbage will be picked up off the side streets or in the alley behind your houses. If you have any questions, please call City Hall 385-1470 or Public Works at 385-1480.”

Hospice Volunteers Needed!

By Yorke Prough · Monday, June 12th, 2023 at 10:05 am CDT

Compassus Hospice is currently looking for volunteers to spend time with patients. Most volunteers visit clients in their homes or at the long-term care facilities. Volunteering with Compassus is a rewarding way to enhance the lives of hospice patients and their families. You’ll find companionship with fellow volunteers and joy in serving others. Hospice volunteers are part of a very special team of people who serve patients receiving end-of-life care and their families, working together to preserve dignity and quality of life. Hospice volunteers can provide quality care to those in need of hospice services, as well as support for their families. Their presence can be a great source of comfort and help to both the patient and family members during this difficult time. You must be 18 years or older to apply. www.compassus.com/volunteers

 

 

Mary Ann Smith

By Yorke Prough · Monday, June 12th, 2023 at 6:46 am CDT

Mary Ann Hoover Smith, 67, of Mount Pleasant died Sunday, June 11, 2023, at her home.

Mary Ann was born July 8, 1955, in Mount Pleasant, the daughter of Walter and Connie (DeWitt) Hoover. She was a member of the Mount Pleasant High School graduating class of 1973. She continued her education at a travel agent school in Minneapolis. On October 2, 1993, Mary Ann was united in marriage to Bruce Smith in Colorado. The couple spent time in Colorado before returning to Mount Pleasant in 1994. Mary Ann managed Mount Pleasant Travel, served as the Director of RSVP at Henry County Health Center, worked at Dave’s Super Value, and Hy-Vee. She ended her working career as a member of the food service crew at the Mount Pleasant schools. Mary Ann could often be found tending to her garden, she was a master gardener. She enjoyed attending auctions, keeping an eye out for special antiques, and trips to the casino. Mary Ann loved spending time with family, playing cards and sharing stories. She was a member of the Moose Lodge, where she was a Senior Regent.

Mary Ann is survived by her husband Bruce; step children, Corina Sanders of Frederick, Colorado, Hadassah (Ed) Schmitt of Ralston, Nebraska, Marley (Heather) Smith of Cheyenne, Wyoming; seven step grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; four siblings Kathy Messer, Ronnie Hoover, Janet Ensminger and Rodney Hoover.

Memorial Service will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 19, 2023, at Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel and Crematory. Visitation will be held 1:00 – 4:00 Sunday, June 18, 2023, at Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel and Crematory. A memorial fund has been established for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.  www.powellfuneralhomes.com

Larry P. Meagher

By Yorke Prough · Monday, June 12th, 2023 at 6:46 am CDT

Larry P. Meagher, 83, of New London, died Friday, June 9, 2023 at Sunrise Terrace, Winfield.  A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, June 17, 2023 at Elliott Chapel, New London with Navy Chaplain Randy Langner officiating.  Visitation will begin at 9:00 am with the family receiving friends from 10:00 until the time of the service.  According to his wishes, his body has been cremated and inurnment will follow the service at St. Alphonsus Cemetery, Mt. Pleasant with military rites by the Henry County Honor Guard.  Memorials have been established for the Vietnam Veteran’s Wall and New London VFW Post 7641.  Online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.

Calvin Maddy

By Yorke Prough · Monday, June 12th, 2023 at 6:45 am CDT

Calvin Maddy, 74, of Mount Pleasant, died Friday, June 9, 2023, at his home.

Calvin was born August 22, 1948, in Albia, Iowa, the son of Stanley and Eva (Allison) Maddy. He graduated from high school in Sheridan, Wyoming. On October 23, 1968, Calvin was united in marriage to Connie Fjeld in Mankato, Minnesota. They later divorced after raising their four children in the house Calvin built at the age of 28. He worked as a lineman for Access Energy for 40 years. Calvin enjoyed traveling and spending time with family.

Calvin is survived by his ex-wife Connie of New London; four children, son Clint (Jade) Maddy of New London and their children Korte and Garrett; daughter Carmen (Stephen) Heckenberg of Sperry and their children Drew, Ryan, and Nate; son Colin Maddy of Malcolm and his children Estella and Eva; daughter Colletta (Tony) Palladino of Des Moines and her children Ivy and Spencer; five siblings Cheryl Payne of Mount Pleasant, Frank Maddy of Henderson, Nevada, Bill Maddy of Mount Pleasant, Jane Maddy-Vasquez of Bettendorf and Tom Maddy of Mount Pleasant.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held 1:00 – 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at the Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel and Crematory. Family will be present to greet friends beginning at 5:00 p.m. According to Calvin’s wishes his body has been cremated and no formal service will be held. A general memorial fund has been established. The Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel and Crematory is caring for Calvin and his family. www.powellfuneralhomes.com

 

Sports, June 12th

By Slaten Swords · Monday, June 12th, 2023 at 6:33 am CDT

High School Baseball

Mt. Pleasant will travel to take on Burlington in a doubleheader tonight. KILJ will be on the call with pregame at 5 pm.

Winfield-Mt. Union will face off against Danville today. 

New London will host Hillcrest Academy tonight.

Mediapolis will host Highland today. 

Central Lee will take on Wapello tonight. 

Van Buren County will host Louisa-Muscatine today at 5:30 pm.

In Southeast Iowa conference (SEC) play, Fort Madison will take on Keokuk tonight and Fairfield will face off against Washington today.

High School Softball

Mt. Pleasant competed in two games over the weekend in the Fairfield invite and split them. Game one took extra innings, but the Panthers scraped by with the 7-6 win over New London. Jersey Beach smacked two doubles, Saige Burchett raced around the bases for a triple, and Beachy, Burchett, and Bethany Drury each collected 2 RBIs in the game. 

Van Buren County got the best of Mt. Pleasant in game two winning 7-3. Emma Starr, Beachy, and Ella McNamee each tallied an RBI for the Panthers. Ashlynn Huff and Sophia Jirak finished with 2 RBIs apiece. The Panthers will travel to Burlington tonight for a doubleheader. 

Van Buren County also took down New London 10-0. Huff had two doubles and added 2 RBIs to her weekend total. The Warriors will take on Louisa-Muscatine today at home.

New London will host Hillcrest Academy tonight with first pitch at 7 pm.

Winfield-Mt. Union will take on Danville tonight.

Mediapolis will host Highland today.

In other SEC games, Fort Madison will take on Keokuk on the road tonight. Fairfield will face off against Washington today. 

Iowa Hawkeye Track and Field

The NCAA outdoor national championships wrapped up competition over the weekend and here’s the highlights. James Carter Jr. finished with 2nd team All-American honors for his 13th place finish in the triple jump with a leap of 15.69 meters. 

Tionna Tobias finished in 20th in the Heptathlon, which earned her an All-American Honorable Mention. 

Austin West grabbed the bronze medal in the Decathlon with 8,054 points, earning him an All-American honor. 

Amanda Howe and Paige Magee each finished as 2nd team All-Americans with Howe finishing in 12th in the women’s hammer throw and Magee taking 13th in the 100-meter hurdles.

Iowa State Track and Field

Ezekiel Rop finished as a 1st team All-American after finishing in 7th place in the 1500 meter run with a time of 3 minutes and 43 seconds. He is the Cyclones’ 9th All-American in the 1500 meter run. 

Callie Logue grabbed 6th place in the 5,000 meter run with a time of 15 minutes and 49 seconds. This is her first career All-American honor. 

Emily March earned her second career All-American award after a 24th place finish in the discus with a toss of 161 feet 11 inches, an Honorable Mention.

This Day in Sports History

1880 – Worcester Ruby Legs pitcher Lee Richmond throws first perfect game in MLB history in 1-0 win over Cleveland Blues at the Agricultural County Fair Grounds, Worcester.

1990 – Oakland A’s Rickey Henderson becomes 2nd to steal 900 bases.

2011 – NBA Finals: Dallas Mavericks beat Miami Heat, 105-95 in Game 6 for first title in franchise history; MVP: Dirk Nowitzki.