Joseph Howard Overmyer

By Hayden Douglas · Thursday, May 29th, 2025 at 2:12 pm CDT

Joseph Howard Overmyer, 75, a resident of Fairfield, passed away Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at Jefferson County Health Center in Fairfield.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to the family in care of Susan Overmyer, 106 N. Morgan St. Fairfield, Iowa 52556. Behner Funeral Home in Fairfield is assisting the family.

Joe was born October 9, 1949 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the son of Howard and Delores (Badders) Overmyer. He married Susan Schlie in Fort Wayne, February 8, 1977.

Joe worked as a salesman of rare violins, violas, and cellos in Chicago and New York City. He was a collector of motorcycles, a top-notch musician, and a lover of music. A brilliant and devoted father and jovial and supportive friend to so many in his Fairfield community, Joe loved his family, his friends, and his dog.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Susan; daughter, Josie Overmyer of Fairfield; sister, Sally (Denny) Feasby of Missouri; and brother, Gary Overmyer of Valparaiso, Indiana, and the many friends he made throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Benjamin Overmyer; and sister, Judy Sterling.

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

Single Car Crash on Hwy 218 Southbound & Kentucky Ave Sends Vehicle Across Northbound Hwy 218

By Hayden Douglas · Thursday, May 29th, 2025 at 2:07 pm CDT

Mount Pleasant, Iowa — Emergency crews responded to a single-vehicle crash early Thursday afternoon at the intersection of Highway 288 and Kentucky Avenue, just south of Mount Pleasant.

The incident occurred around 1:30 p.m. when a vehicle traveling southbound on Highway 218 crossed the center median and entered the northbound lanes, ultimately coming to a stop after colliding with the cable wire barricade.

Mount Pleasant Fire Department and the Iowa State Patrol arrived on scene shortly after the call, followed by Henry County EMS. Emergency medical personnel evaluated the female driver, who was transported to Henry County Medical Center for further examination. Her condition is currently unknown.

Authorities confirm that this was a one-vehicle accident. At this time, it is unclear what caused the vehicle to cross into oncoming traffic. The incident remains under investigation by the Iowa State Patrol.

Stay tuned to KILJ for updates as more information becomes available.

After 24 Years, Henry County’s General Assistance Director, Sarah Berndt, Says goodbye

By Hayden Douglas · Thursday, May 29th, 2025 at 11:40 am CDT

After more than two decades of service, Henry County’s General Assistance Director Sarah Berndt has officially transitioned the department to the Public Health Department, marking the end of the county’s standalone General Assistance office. The change comes as part of a broader realignment of mental health and disability services across Iowa, which led to the dissolution of several local departments, including General Assistance.

“This is my last report. I am no longer the General Assistance Director,” Sarah Berndt announced in her final update to the Board. “We transitioned to Public Health yesterday, keeping the same phone number.”

She spent the last several weeks preparing for the handoff, including updating all forms with Public Health Director, Katie Reuter’s information; requesting website updates, and notifying community partners—such as funeral homes—of the change.

The transition also involved hours of collaboration with the new team. “A lot of my time recently—about 10% during the last reporting period—was spent working with Katie and her staff, going over how I did things, and making sure the files were transitioned,” she said. Those records are now being scanned and stored under the Public Health department.

During her final report, she shared that there were 19 contacts in the past month, many of which involved questions or requests for applications that were not completed. She also handled two cremation requests that ultimately didn’t move forward due to eligibility issues—one involving a Lee County resident and another with incomplete follow-through.

As she concluded her report, one of the Supervisor Chairman, Marc Lindeen offered thanks: “I just want to publicly say thank you for all you’ve done. June 4th will mark 24 years of your service. We wouldn’t be where we are without your guidance.”

“It’s been a great 24 years,” Sarah responded. “A few rough days, sure—but most have been really good. It’s been an honor to serve the county.”

Though her title and department may be gone, her dedication to public service continues in Henry County.

Henry County Supervisors Open Public Hearing on Burning Ordinance, Residents Request More Input Before Final Vote

By Hayden Douglas · Thursday, May 29th, 2025 at 11:17 am CDT

The Henry County Board of Supervisors held a public hearing this week to gather input on a proposed open burning ordinance aimed at reducing unnecessary emergency calls and ensuring safe outdoor fire practices. While the ordinance has been in discussion for over a month, members of the public voiced concerns about the timing, accessibility, and clarity of the draft.

The hearing was opened by the board following a motion and vote. Chairman Marc Lindeen acknowledged the ordinance had been made available at the auditor’s office since May 15.

The ordinance outlines fire safety measures during state-issued burn bans, including requirements for spark screens on burn barrels and mandatory notifications to authorities before larger burns. It exempts recreational campfires and cooking fires but mandates stricter guidelines during hazardous conditions. However, confusion arose over key sections—such as what qualifies as a burn permit and how to obtain one—and whether the ordinance applies only during burn bans or at all times.

Henry County Emergency Management Coordinator Walt Jackson clarified that the ordinance is only enforceable during state-issued burn bans, not year-round. He noted that during red flag warnings, the ban periods are often brief, typically lasting 6 to 12 hours. He also emphasized the importance of education alongside enforcement, saying, “Every time we make a change, it’s an opportunity to educate the public so they know what the rules are.”

Supervisor Chad White, a frequent burner himself, said he had reviewed the draft ordinance and found nothing overly restrictive, but acknowledged that more clarity in the ordinance might be helpful for some residents. He also noted that several people have already begun voluntarily notifying dispatchers before conducting burns.

The board confirmed that no additional public hearings are currently scheduled, though they acknowledged a second hearing could be added.

Some members of the public urged the board to consider holding one more hearing, arguing that time and additional public exposure—through newspapers, radio, and social media—would allow for more informed feedback.

The supervisors ultimately exited the public hearing phase without committing to an additional session, but left the possibility open depending on public response in the coming weeks.

Residents are encouraged to contact their supervisors directly with comments or concerns in the meantime.

BREAKING: Major Accident Involving Construction Truck and Pig Hauler Causes Traffic Backup on Highway 218 North

By Hayden Douglas · Thursday, May 29th, 2025 at 8:48 am CDT

Mount Pleasant, Iowa (KILJ) — Traffic was backed up for miles on Highway 218 North just north of Mount Pleasant Thursday morning following a serious collision involving multiple large vehicles.

The accident occurred near the intersection of 218 Northbound and 170th Street, just south of Swedesburg. The crash involved a livestock trailer, and a Construction Semi. As of now, it is unclear how the accident unfolded or severity of any injuries. Henry County EMS was evaluating one scene and Medforce Air Medical was called to the scene.

Emergency personnel from the Henry County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa State Patrol, Henry County EMS, and surrounding first responders rushed to the scene. Authorities directed traffic while crews worked to clear the roadway and assess the situation.

Motorists experienced significant delays as responders worked to clear the livestock from the roadway, and drivers are urged to avoid the area this Thursday morning or seek alternate routes until the scene is fully cleared.

Stay with KILJ for the latest updates as more information becomes available.

Sports, May 29th

By Slaten Swords · Thursday, May 29th, 2025 at 6:38 am CDT

High School Tennis

Fairfield’s Rumin Luo started day two of the Class 1A State Singles Tournament with a sweep of Bishop Heelan’s Easton Lubarski, sending the Trojan to the 5th place match against Tyler Grote of Sergeant Bluff-Luton. Unfortunately, Luo was outmatched, falling 6-3 in set one and 6-0 in set two to finish the tournament in 6th place. 

High School Golf

The boys’ State Golf Meets for Classes 1A, 2A, and 3A are in the book and here’s how our local teams performed. 

In Class 1A, Hillcrest Academy’s Liam Schrock took home the silver medal after a phenomenal second round score of 71 (-1) to finish with a two-day score of two-over par. Rowan Miller finished in 8th place with a score of 153. The duo helped the Ravens take 4th place as a team. Boyden-Hull was the team champion.

Central Lee in Class 2A collected 8th place as a team with Mylan Lowenberg leading the way with a two-day score of 162, which tied him for 30th place. Caleb Larson finished tied for 39th place with a final card of 20-over par. Columbus Catholic took the team crown by 14 strokes.

Lastly, Drew Conrad of Washington carded a 78 on day two to finish in 24th place with a score of 152. Waverly-Shell Rock won the tiebreaker over MOC-Floyd Valley for the Class 3A championship.

The girls’ Class 1A state meet will be held at American Legion Golf Course in Marshalltown with New London’s Emma Busby and Wapello’s Emmalin Marshall making the trip, starting today and concluding tomorrow, May 30th.

High School Soccer

In the girls’ Class 1A Region 3 bracket, Washington was throttled by Assumption last night 10-0. The Demons finished the season with a 9-8 record. 

The Mediapolis girls’ team fell victim to Mid-Prairie’s underdog run last night as the Golden Hawks secured another 2-1 road victory. Mid-Prairie will square off against Assumption tomorrow, May 30th, at 7 pm on the road for the Regional Championship.

In the girls’ Class 2A Region 4 bracket, Fort Madison’s Ellie Hellman did all that she could, stopping 11 shots on goal but the Bloodhound offense could not generate any pressure, leading Hunter Pender to score a 2nd half goal for the Grayhounds in a 1-0 final. Burlington will travel to Xavier tomorrow at 7 pm for the Regional Championship.

In the boys’ Class 1A Substate 5 bracket, Mediapolis will make the trip to West Liberty tonight for the Substate Championship at 7 pm.

In the boys’ Class 2A Substate 5 bracket, #6 Burlington Notre Dame can punch their ticket to state tonight at home against Maquoketa at 7 pm.

The Mt. Pleasant boys’ team will square off against Williamsburg on the road tonight at 7 pm for the Class 2A Substate 6 championship. 

High School Baseball

Winfield-Mt. Union could not contain Burlington’s offense last night, losing 12-4 at Community Field. Parker Wilson went 2 for 3 at the plate with an RBI and a stolen base. The Wolves will take on Louisa-Muscatine tonight at 5:30 pm at home.

Mt. Pleasant’s six-run 5th inning spelled disaster for Van Buren County as the Panthers’ walked away with an 11-3 victory. Zach Newton (two doubles) and Brayton Hutson (one double) combined for three extra base hits as the senior duo tabbed three RBIs apiece. Cree Kite nabbed the lone RBI for the Warriors.

Mt. Pleasant starts a three-day home stand tomorrow, May 30th, against Muscatine at 7 pm. KILJ 105.5 FM, kilj.com, will be on the call with the pregame show at 6:45 pm.

Van Buren County will travel to Mediapolis tonight with first pitch at 7:30 pm.

Central Lee outlasted Fairfield last night 12-9 in an explosive display of offense. Aiden Westercamp led the Trojans with three RBIs and a double. Fairfield will hit the road on Saturday, May 31st, for the Davis County Classic.

New London squashed Keokuk last night 11-1 as eight Tigers collected at least one RBI in the textbook definition of small ball with no extra base hits. Gage Burden and Owen Nehring tag teamed the no-hitter, but issued 10 combined walks.

West Burlington will compete against New London at home tonight at 5:30 pm.

Burlington Notre Dame will travel to Central Lee tonight at 7:30 pm.

Danville will take on Highland tonight at 5:30 pm on the road. 

Wapello will look to right the ship against Hillcrest Academy tonight at 5:30 pm on the road. 

High School Softball

Mt. Pleasant took a 4 to 2 lead over Central Lee in the 2nd inning after notching five hits, including a two-RBI single for Saige Burchett. But, Central Lee’s offense proved too powerful as the Hawks flew away with the victory, 9-5. Carley Pezley led the Hawks offense with two RBIs on three hits. 

Mt. Pleasant will host Mid-Prairie at 7 pm tomorrow, May 30th. 

Central Lee will square off against Holy Trinity Catholic tonight at 7 pm at home.

Holy Trinity Catholic swept Keokuk in dominant fashion last night 15-6 in game one and 15-4 in game two.

Fairfield won their season opener last night against Van Buren County 7-5. Leah Helmick and Lancey Norris each picked up two RBIs in the effort. The Trojans will compete in a doubleheader tonight against Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont at home with game one at 5:30 pm.

Van Buren County will tangle with Mediapolis tonight on the road with first pitch at 7 pm.

West Burlington/Notre Dame played the role of the cardiac kids last night, scoring seven-runs in the top of the 7th inning before allowing two runs in the bottom half of the inning to eventually close the door on a 12-11 victory over West Liberty. The Falcons will compete against New London at home tonight at 7 pm.

Wapello will travel to Hillcrest Academy tonight at 7 pm.

Columbus will host WACO tonight at 7 pm.

Danville will take on Highland tonight at 7:30 pm on the road. 

Southeastern Community College

The baseball team’s season came to end in the consolation semifinals yesterday at the hands of East Central Community College in a 13-4 final. Owen Sikkink collected two RBIs in the loss. The Blackhawks finished the season with a 50-15 record. 

Prospect League

The Burlington Bees fell to the Normal CornBelters last night 9-5 on the road. Kooper Schulte continued his hot start to the season with an RBI and a double. The Bees will get their rematch tonight at 6:30 pm.

The Clinton LumberKings lost a tight one last night 7-6 to the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes. The LumberKings will look to avenge their loss tonight against the Lucky Horseshoes at 6:30 pm.

This Day in Sports History

1922 – The US Supreme Court rules organized baseball is a sport and not a business and thus not subject to antitrust laws.

1971 – Indianapolis 500: Defending champion Al Unser Sr. becomes the first and only driver to win the race on his birthday as he led for the final 83 laps.

1977 – Indianapolis 500: A. J. Foyt became the first driver to win the Indy 500 four times. Janet Guthrie also became the first female to qualify and compete in the race.

Michael A. Chrissinger

By Hayden Douglas · Wednesday, May 28th, 2025 at 4:56 pm CDT

Michael A. Chrissinger, 62, of Mt. Pleasant, died Friday, May 23, 2025 at his residence.

Funeral arrangements are pending at the Kimzey Funeral Home, 213 North Main Street, Mount Pleasant. Online condolences may be directed to www.kimzeyfh.com.