Jamee A. Pierson

2 months ago | newtondailynews.com | Jamee A. Pierson

Almost 100 kids filled the Berg Middle School stage for the 2025 Jasper County Honor Band. Showing off their skills on musical instruments, the kids put on a show-stopping performance, no fooling, on April 1. The band was led by guest director Lynnville-Sully Middle School Band Director Brenna Hamborg. Students from all six county schools participated in the 51st edition of the honor band. “The students were awesome to work with. I had such a fun time working with all of them,” Hamborg said.

Feb 28, 2025 | newtondailynews.com | Jamee A. Pierson

For the 32nd year, the Colfax Fire Department will hold its annual soup supper. Starting at 5 p.m. March 8, people will flood into the fire station excited to get their fill of tasty soup and yummy desserts all while helping a good cause. “The soup supper is the biggest fundraiser for the department,” Colfax Fire Fighter Dennis Lester said.

Feb 26, 2025 | newtondailynews.com | Jamee A. Pierson

Sparkle and shine, bright colors and funky decorations — Wild Roots Boutique and Suites, now in Prairie City, is open and excited to welcome in the community. Located in the former Prairie Escape Wellness Center at 301 W. Jefferson St., Wild Roots features women-led businesses from a hair salon to nail technician, a tattoo artist, message therapist and esthetician. “I like color, I like funky, I like happy. I think disco balls make you happy,” owner Kayci Bloethe said.

Feb 26, 2025 | newtondailynews.com | Jamee A. Pierson

In a unanimous decision, the Baxter Community School Board at its February meeting approved moving to a four day school week for the 2025-26 school year. With, on average, 70 to 80 percent of feedback either neutral or in favor of the switch, the district felt strong support to make the change. “It’s a big undertaking and a big change,” Baxter Superintendent Chris Petersen said. Work started on the idea to move to four days in September, Petersen said.

Feb 17, 2025 | newtondailynews.com | Jamee A. Pierson

Editor’s note: This is the fifth in a series of articles exploring the results of the Jasper County Community Health Needs Assessment. Lack of childcare is a top concern in the community Health Needs Assessment, and it is an issue that has been present in the county for an extended period of time. With a workforce shortage perception of more than 56 percent for childcare providers in the county, finding quality childcare close to home is more difficult than ever for local families.