Shortly after 11 a.m. on Monday, emergency crews were dispatched to the intersection of 200th st. and Lexington Avenue, just north of Mount Pleasant, following reports of a field spraying truck entangled in a power line.

According to scanner traffic, the incident involved a sprayer truck that became stuck to an overhead power line while working near the roadway. Responding agencies included the Mount Pleasant Fire Department, the Henry County Sheriff’s Department, and Access Energy Cooperative.

Upon arrival, first responders found the driver still inside the sprayer. Out of an abundance of caution, the operator remained in the cab for over 40 minutes until Access Energy crews could safely assess and resolve the electrical hazard.

Using a bucket truck and specialized equipment, Access Energy Cooperative was able to safely disconnect the sprayer arm from the power line. Once the equipment was separated, the operator carefully backed the sprayer away and successfully lowered the boom.

No injuries were reported. The Mount Pleasant Fire Department, & Henry County Sheriff’s Department worked together to secure the road way and clear the area.

The scene was fully cleared shortly before noon. No power was reported to be affected during the accident.

Henry County road crews will be performing shoulder maintenance this week on two key routes:

• Franklin Avenue from 235th Street to Salem

• 235th Street from Mount Pleasant to Westwood

The work will be conducted as a moving operation, and drivers are advised to use caution as one-lane traffic conditions will be in place at times.

Motorists are encouraged to slow down, watch for workers and equipment, and allow extra travel time if driving in these areas.

For more information, contact Tracy Sammons, Office Manager at the Henry County Engineer’s Office.

The Mount Pleasant Community School District Board of Directors will hold its regular monthly meeting on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Media Center at Mount Pleasant Community High School.

The agenda includes a variety of important items, ranging from financial decisions to policy updates and personnel matters. Superintendent Henriksen will provide updates on several topics, including the upcoming Iowa Association of School Boards (IASB) Summit on Student Success taking place June 11 in Ankeny, as well as the Board’s summer meeting schedule and legislative developments.

Standing board committees, including the Finance and Site/Policy Committees, will also give brief reports.

Key Action Items on the Agenda:

• Instructional Support Program: The Board will consider a resolution to continue participation in the district’s Instructional Support Program, along with scheduling a public hearing for July 14 at 6:00 PM.
• VIBE Program Partnership: A proposed 28E agreement with Burlington Community School District will be considered for shared participation in the VIBE virtual learning program.
• Student Handbook Updates: Proposed changes to the 2025–2026 student handbook will be up for approval.
• Bread Bid and Special Education Contract: The Board will vote on the 2025–2026 bread bid and a contract with Great Prairie AEA for the transfer of state special education funding.

Closed Session and Superintendent Contract

Toward the end of the meeting, the Board will enter a closed session under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i) to conduct a year-end review of the superintendent’s job performance. Following this review, the Board is expected to vote on the approval of the superintendent’s contract.

Community members are encouraged to attend. The full agenda and supporting materials are available through the district website at www.mtpcsd.org.

Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts have a fresh reason to explore the scenic trails of Oakland Mills Park this June. The Henry County Conservation Department is hosting a self-guided hike titled “Flowers of Iowa” from June 6 through June 19.

This unique, family-friendly activity invites participants to discover and learn about the native flowers of Iowa while enjoying a peaceful walk along the park’s trails. The hike begins at Turtle Town, located next to the Oakland Mills Nature Center. There, hikers will receive instructions and guidance on how to follow the trail and engage with educational materials throughout the route.

The self-paced format offers flexibility for visitors to explore on their own schedule. Informational signs along the trail will provide insights into various wildflowers found in the area, making it both an educational and recreational outing.

Best of all, the program is free to the public—making it an accessible opportunity for anyone interested in Iowa’s natural beauty and botanical diversity.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a budding botanist, or simply looking for a relaxing walk surrounded by summer blooms, the Flowers of Iowa hike offers a meaningful way to connect with nature.

For more information, contact the Henry County Conservation Department or stop by the Oakland Mills Nature Center.

Washington County 4-H youth involved in sheep projects are invited to attend a Sheep Showmanship Project Meeting on Monday, June 9 at 7:00 p.m. in the main show ring at the Washington County Fairgrounds.

The session will be led by an experienced project leader who will provide valuable guidance on proper show ring techniques and tips for making a positive impression on judges during competition. Youth are encouraged to bring their lambs to practice hands-on skills, but those without animals are also welcome to come and observe.

Showmanship is a vital component of livestock exhibition, emphasizing not only the quality of the animal but the exhibitor’s ability to handle and present it effectively. This workshop is designed to boost participants’ confidence and sharpen their presentation skills ahead of upcoming county and state fair events.

The meeting is open to all 4-H members enrolled in the sheep project area. No prior experience is necessary, making this an excellent opportunity for newcomers to get involved and learn from seasoned mentors.

For more information, families are encouraged to contact the Washington County Extension Office.

Event Details:

• What: Sheep Showmanship Project Meeting
• When: Monday, June 9, 7:00 p.m.
• Where: Main Show Ring, Washington County Fairgrounds
• Who: All 4-H members (lambs optional)
• Hosted by: Washington County 4-H, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach

This educational program exemplifies the commitment of 4-H to developing leadership, responsibility, and livestock care skills in youth across Iowa. For more information, families are encouraged to contact the Washington County Extension Office.