Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Washington engineer anticipates hikes in fuel costs

The Washington County Engineer is anticipating high fuel prices again this summer. David Patterson says demand goes up during warm weather as more people travel, and government agencies undertake the bulk of their construction projects. The board of supervisors yesterday (5/12) approved letting the annual fuel contract for Patterson's office.

Planting season much better than last year

Despite a wet spring, farmer's are making good progress this planting season compared with last. Washington County Extension Education Director Gene Mohling says about 85% of corn is in the ground, and nearly 20% of soybeans have been planted. Mohling says the one drawback of this is a lower price. Last year delays and flooding drove the price of both commodities up significantly.

Advice from the chief of police

Washington's police chief is advising residents to review their security measures in the wake of a recent string of break ins. Greg Goodman says taking simple steps like locking your home and vehicle can significantly reduce your risk. He says motion activated lights can also greatly deter potential intruders.

MP Sup. won't receive raise

Mid Prairie Superintendent Mark Schneider won't receive a pay increase as he effectively becomes superintendent of Keota this summer. Mid Prairie staff received a 2.2% pay increase recently, but Schneider turned down his raise. He'll begin his duties as dual superintendent July 30th.

Alliant warns of scams

Alliant Energy is warning customers to beware of con-artists posing as utility workers. Alliant spokesman Dave Koch says workers in the field never collect money for any service. He says customers can always ask to see their Alliant Energy identification badge as well. Koch urges anyone who sees suspicious activity to call their local law enforcement agency.

Washington JH Band at Tulip Time

Mediacom customers can get a look at the Washington Junior High Band performing at the Pella Tulip Time Festival Parade. Band Director Craig McClenahan says the cable provider has made the performance available on their on demand channel. He says the parade can be seen by going to channel one and selecting "Mediacom Local."

Louisa RFL teams forming

The Louisa County Relay for Life event is a few months away, but a local American Cancer Society official says teams are starting to form. Kierstan Peck says the relay is on August first, when teams will gather at the L and M Elementary School. She says the event will go from noon on the first, until midnight on August second. For more information on how to start or join a team contact the American Cancer Society at 319-653-3768, 1-800-ACS-2345 or www.relayforlife.org.

4-H leadership opportunities

The Iowa 4-H is looking for students to volunteer during the 2009 summer camp season. Washington County 4-H coordinator Kati Peiffer says current freshman can serve as leaders in training with day camp for 6-10 year olds. She says sophomores and juniors can be counselors in training, and assistant cabin counselors for a week. To find out more, or register, visit www.iowa4hcamp.com.