Sports, June 3rd

By Slaten Swords · Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025 at 6:39 am CDT

High School Soccer

Burlington Notre Dame’s season came to an end last night in a 2-1 loss against Williamsburg in the Class 2A state quarterfinal round. The Nikes finished the season with a 16-4 record.  

The Class 1A and Class 2A semifinals start tomorrow, June 4th, at noon with Regina Catholic taking on Van Meter. Hudson will face off against West Sioux and Bishop Heelan will square off against Williamsburg before the nightcap of Gilbert versus Webster City.

The girls’ state tournament gets underway today with all three classes playing their state quarterfinal round.

High School Baseball

Dayson Workman lived up to the name for Fairfield, collecting five doubles and six RBIs in a sweep of Mt. Pleasant to start conference play last night, 20-7 in game one and 14-8 in game two. Ethan Bisgard clobbered a home run for five RBIs in game one, while Cason Miller totaled two triples and six RBIs in game two. 

Mt. Pleasant will look to stop this three-game skid tomorrow, June 4th, at home against New London with first pitch at 7:30 pm.

Fairfield will host Albia tonight at 7:30 pm.

New London now has a two-game win streak after scraping past Pekin last night 2-1. Tate Welcher nabbed a double and an RBI in the winning effort. 

Van Buren County’s Will Cocherell dealt a five inning no-hitter last night against Winfield-Mt. Union, collecting nine strikeouts in the 11-0 win. The sophomore also led the way on offense with four RBIs.

Wapello will face off against Winfield-Mt. Union tonight at 5:30 pm on the road. 

Van Buren County will take on Fort Madison tomorrow at 7 pm at the Field of Dreams.

Central Lee picked up an extra innings win last night against Anamosa, scoring two runs in the ninth inning to take a 7-5 victory. Blake Davis led the way with two RBIs for the Hawks. 

Central Lee versus Burlington has been canceled for tonight.

Danville fell to Hillcrest Academy last night 15-0. Mediapolis will host Danville tonight at 5:30 pm.

West Burlington will host Burlington Notre Dame tonight at 5:30 pm.

High School Softball

Mt. Pleasant hosted Fairfield for the first conference doubleheader for the season and the Trojans’ bats led them past the Panthers 20-9 in game one and 9-1 in game two. Mt. Pleasant responded to the call of offense in game one, even taking a 9 to 8 lead after four innings when Keagyn Coleman notched an RBI single. However, between the two games, Lilly Bergen smoked the ball, tagging three extra base hits including a triple, while scoring seven times. Leah Helmick knocked home six runs for the Trojans, while Coleman and Saige Burchett each tabbed two RBIs by night’s end.

Mt. Pleasant is taking on New London tomorrow, June 4th, at 7:30 pm at home. KILJ 105.5 FM, kilj.com, will be on the call with the pregame show at 7:15 pm.

Fairfield will continue their road trip on Thursday, June 5th, to face off against Fort Madison at 7:30 pm. 

New London’s 7th inning comeback fell short against Pekin last night in an 11-7 final. 

West Burlington/Notre Dame clobbered Highland last night 10-0 behind Lyndsey Kelley’s home run and four RBIs. Madelyn Thomas allowed only one hit and struck out two in her four innings of work. 

Holy Trinity Catholic will face off against West Burlington/Notre Dame tonight at 7 pm on the road. 

Danville shutout Hillcrest Academy last night 6-0.

Mediapolis fell to Class 2A’s #4 Louisa-Muscatine last night 11-1. Layne Price finished 1 for 2 at the plate with the lone RBI. The Bulldogs will square off against Danville tonight at 5:30 pm at home.

Columbus and Central Lee has canceled their game for tonight.

WACO’s contest against Lone Tree tonight has been canceled. It will be made up as a doubleheader on June 23rd.

Van Buren County will take on Pekin on Thursday at 5:30 pm at home.

Wapello will face off against Louisa-Muscatine on Thursday at 7 pm at home.

High School Cross Country

The Mt. Pleasant Cross Country team will be starting up their optional summer runs on June 16th. The runs are available to any 7th through 12th grader with paces and plans dependent on the level of experience. Coaches may not be present at every run as upperclassmen often lead the runs.

On Mondays and Wednesdays, the runs will begin at 6:30 am at the Old Threshers Museum Theatre. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the runs will begin at Saunders Park by the swimming pool at 7 pm. The runs will continue through mid-August until the cross country camp. If you have any questions, then contact Coach Murray at 319-850-0867. 

Prospect League

The Burlington Bees gave the home crowd something to cheer about as yesterday’s matinee ended in a Dash Denton walk-off single to give the Bees an 8-7 win over the Normal CornBelters. Kooper Schulte swatted a two-run shot to center field to collect a league leading 12 RBIs.

The Bees and Quincy Doggy Paddlers has postponed their contest for tonight. The game will be made up as a seven-inning doubleheader in Quincy on Sunday, June 8th.

The Clinton LumberKings are looking to sweep the Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp tonight at 7:05 pm.

This Day in Sports History

1888 – Baseball poem “Casey at the Bat” is first published by the San Francisco Examiner.

1978 – Phillies Dave Johnson is the first to hit two pinch hit grand slams in a year.

2018 – Golden State guard Stephen Curry breaks Ray Allen’s NBA Finals record for most 3-pointers in a game with 9 as the Warriors defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers 122-103 in Game 2.

Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report: May 26 – June 1, 2025

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, June 2nd, 2025 at 3:26 pm CDT

DES MOINES, Iowa (June 2, 2025) – Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig says Iowa farmers are hitting a key transition point in the growing season, as spring planting nears completion and attention shifts to crop maintenance and hay production.

“Planting is nearly complete across the state and most of the corn and soybeans have emerged. Many farmers are now turning their attention to applying crop protection products and baling hay,” said Secretary Naig. “While haze from Canadian wildfires has hung around the last few days, it’s expected to clear by mid-week. The forecast shows much of the state could receive some welcome rain in the week ahead.”

The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released its latest Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report for the week ending June 1, 2025, showing a productive week for growers thanks to favorable weather.

Field Conditions and Activity

Farmers enjoyed 5.4 days suitable for fieldwork, thanks to mostly dry conditions with only isolated showers. Primary activities included planting the final acres of corn and soybeans, spraying crops, and harvesting the first cutting of hay.

Moisture Levels

Topsoil moisture levels held mostly steady with:

  • 5% very short

  • 23% short

  • 70% adequate

  • 2% surplus

Subsoil moisture was rated:

  • 5% very short

  • 27% short

  • 65% adequate

  • 3% surplus

Corn and Soybeans

  • Corn planting reached 97%, with 87% emerged—running six days ahead of last year and slightly ahead of the five-year average.

  • Corn condition was reported as 84% good to excellent.

  • Soybean planting hit 96%, with 79% emerged, which is ten days ahead of last year and four days ahead of average.

  • Soybean condition came in at 81% good to excellent.

Small Grains and Forage

  • Oats emerged reached 95%, and 41% of the crop is headed, which is ahead of both last year and the typical schedule.

  • Oat condition remains strong, rated 85% good to excellent.

  • First cutting of alfalfa hay is 61% complete, outpacing last year by nearly a week.

  • Hay condition was rated 83% good to excellent, and pasture condition was also solid, with 73% good to excellent.

As the 2025 growing season continues to progress ahead of schedule in many areas, farmers are closely watching the weather forecast. A return of measurable rainfall would help maintain strong crop and pasture conditions heading into the summer.

The full weekly report is available at nass.usda.gov.

David Franklin Brown

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, June 2nd, 2025 at 12:19 pm CDT

David Franklin Brown, 78, of Danville, died Monday, March 31, 2025 at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House, West Burlington.  He was born in Burlington on November 7, 1946 to Virril Franklin and Exxa Lou “Peggy” Garland Brown.  He was a 1965 graduate of Wapello High School and then joined the United States Marines, serving in Vietnam from 1965 – 1968.

In 1967 he married Susan Small; they later divorced.  On May 7, 1998 he married Kathryn Gerst at City Hall in Mt. Pleasant.  Dave was the assistant manager of the New London Coop for many years; manager of the Danville Coop; and retired as head of maintenance for Raider’s Precast Concrete.  He was a member of the Marine Corps League in Burlington and a life time member of the New London VFW #7641.  Before his declining health, he enjoyed attending events at Memorial Auditorium and Fairfield Arts and Convention Center; loved dancing with his wife; and enjoyed watching sports, especially football.

Dave is survived by his wife Kathy of Danville; son Shannon (Heidi) Brown of La Vernia, Texas; three stepsons, David Fletcher of Cedar Rapids, Robert Fletcher of Morning Sun and Kenny Fletcher of Wapello; granddaughter Courtney Lynn Fletcher who he helped raise; grandson Jonny Salvador; great-granddaughter Thea Jordan Salvador; one brother Jerry Brown of Winfield; two sisters Louanne Whitehair of Burlington and Jane Armstrong of Loveland, Colorado; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his father Virril; his mother and step-father Peggy and Forrest Hunt; daughter Letha Brown; and two brothers, Danny and Jim.

A Celebration of Life for David and his daughter Letha Brown, who died December 3, 2024, will be held Saturday, June 7, 2025 at the New London VFW Post #7641; 802 E. McKinley, New London; from 2:30 – 4:00 pm.  The Hamilton-Walters Marine Corps League will present military rites at 4:00 pm.  Memorials to honor both David and Letha have been established for the Hamilton-Walters Marine Corps League or Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House.

Elliott Chapel, New London, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.

 

Letha Sher Brown, 55, of Danville, died Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at home.  She was born August 23, 1969 in Burlington to David Franklin and Susan Alene Small Brown.

She attended New London Schools. She worked at Motorola/Celestica and then earned a nursing degree at Southeastern Community College and worked as a traveling nurse for several years.  Letha enjoyed traveling, reading, doing word puzzles, watching movies, and always had a dog companion.  She especially loved her special time with her granddaughter.

Survivors include her son Jonny Salvador of Mediapolis; granddaughter Thea Jordan; her father David (Kathy) Brown of rural Danville; her mother Susan Brown of Florida; and her brother Shannon (Heidi) Brown of Texas.  She was preceded in death by her grandparents.

A Celebration of Life for Letha and her father David Brown, who died March 31, 2025, will be held Saturday, June 7, 2025 at the New London VFW Post #7641; 802 E. McKinley, New London; from 2:30 – 4:00 pm.  The Hamilton-Walters Marine Corps League will present military rites at 4:00 pm.  Memorials to honor both David and Letha have been established for the Hamilton-Walters Marine Corps League or Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House.

Elliott Chapel, New London, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.

Elderly Woman Reported Missing Near Oakland Mills Located Safely

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, June 2nd, 2025 at 8:11 am CDT

A 92-year-old woman reported missing in the Oakland Mills area Saturday evening has been safely located, according to the Henry County Sheriff’s Office.

A community alert was quickly issued, and law enforcement, emergency responders, and local volunteers began a coordinated search effort throughout the area. The public was asked to remain alert and contact the Sheriff’s Office with any sightings or information.

At 11:12 p.m., officials confirmed that Janet had been found in the nearby area. She was taken to a local hospital for a precautionary wellness check. No injuries or serious medical concerns have been reported at this time.

The Henry County Sheriff’s Office extended thanks to everyone who shared the alert and participated in the search.

“Community involvement played a critical role in this successful outcome,” the department said in a statement. “We’re grateful for the swift response and support.”

Anyone with further questions is encouraged to contact the Henry County Sheriff’s Office at 319-385-2712.

Celebrate the First Week of June with HCHC’s First Thursday Sale

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, June 2nd, 2025 at 8:11 am CDT

June has arrived, and with it comes the ever-popular First Thursday Sale at the HCHC Gift Shop—happening Thursday, June 5th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This is your chance to enjoy 25% off one item (some exclusions apply) and stock up on the perfect gifts, especially with Father’s Day right around the corner.

Whether you’re shopping for Dad or just browsing for something special, the gift shop has a wide selection to choose from—grilling accessories, games, home Décor, greeting cards, and more. Don’t miss out on the chance to grab a great deal on a thoughtful gift.

Check out the patriotic-themed apparel, decor, and jewelry—perfect for the summer season and upcoming July celebrations.

Please note: The 25% discount does not apply to food, flowers, cards, stamps, or books.

Mark your calendars and stop by the HCHC Gift Shop on Thursday, June 5th for the First Thursday Sale.

Anglers Invited to “Save the Bridge” at 1st Annual Catfish Tournament in Henry County

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, June 2nd, 2025 at 8:10 am CDT

The Skunk River will come alive with friendly competition and community spirit on Saturday, June 7, 2025, as local organizers host the 1st Annual “Save the Bridge” Catfish Tournament from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Held during Iowa’s Free Fishing Weekend, no license is required to participate, making this an accessible and fun event for all ages.

Participants will gather at the south shore of the Oakland Mills Dam Area at 6:00 AM for sign-up, with both boat and bank fishing allowed along the Skunk River in Henry County.

Each fisherman will be limited to five (5) catfish, and only one catfish can be entered in the Big Cat Competition. All fish must be alive at weigh-in, which will be held at 2:30 PM at the same south shore location.

The day will conclude with a community Fish Fry at 3:30 PM at Oakland Bait & Tackle, supported by freewill donations. The public is welcome to enjoy the food.

The tournament aims to raise awareness and support for preserving a local bridge, an iconic piece of infrastructure in the Oakland Mills area. For more information, contact Steve Davis at Oakland Bait & Tackle (319-217-0371) or Marc Ford (319-931-0871).

Park Place to Honor Resident Veterans with Quilts of Valor Ceremony

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, June 2nd, 2025 at 8:09 am CDT

Park Place invites the community to join in a heartfelt celebration as we honor three resident veterans with a tribute they so deeply deserve. On Friday, June 6 at 2:30 p.m., a special Quilts of Valor Ceremony will take place at Park Place, recognizing the bravery and service of those who have worn our nation’s uniform.

In partnership with the Quilts of Valor Foundation, each honored veteran will receive a handcrafted quilt—each stitch sewn with appreciation, each pattern a symbol of comfort and gratitude. These quilts are more than fabric and thread; they are a tangible expression of a nation’s thanks.

Merle Smith- Navy

Guerdon Lee- Marines

Karl Messer-  National Guard

All community members, friends, and family are warmly encouraged to attend this uplifting ceremony. Whether you’re coming to support a loved one or to simply share a smile with a neighbor, your presence will help make this event even more special.

Because freedom isn’t free—and neither are hugs, smiles, or really good quilts.

Light refreshments will be served, and all are welcome.
For questions or additional information, please contact Ashlee at 319-470-3377.

West Point Woman Arrested on Multiple Felony and Misdemeanor Drug Charges

By Hayden Douglas · Monday, June 2nd, 2025 at 8:09 am CDT

The Lee County Narcotics Task Force has announced the arrest of a West Point woman following the execution of a search warrant at her residence.

Allison Lea Wolkenhauer, 42, faces a range of felony and misdemeanor charges stemming from the investigation. She is accused of possession of more than five grams of methamphetamine with intent to deliver while in possession of a firearm — a Class B felony.

In addition, Wolkenhauer is charged with three counts of Iowa drug tax stamp violations, each a Class D felony. She also faces several serious misdemeanor charges for alleged possession of controlled substances, including morphine, oxycodone, clonazepam, ecstasy, and marijuana. She was further charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, a simple misdemeanor.

The charges are the result of a coordinated law enforcement effort. The search warrant was executed by the Lee County Narcotics Task Force with assistance from the Lee County area Special Response Team (SRT), the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the Fort Madison Police Department, and the Keokuk Police Department’s K-9 unit, including K-9 officer Szolt.

Authorities emphasize that all charges are allegations, and Wolkenhauer is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Lee County Narcotics Task Force receives partial funding from the U.S. Department of Justice, with funds administered by the Iowa Governor’s Office of Drug Control Policy.