Cheese maker to establish milk transfer station in Washington

Washington's Industrial Park is getting a new business. The Washington Economic Development Group says Wisconsin based Montchevre produces goat cheese and is establishing a transfer station for milk in Washington. Montchevre President Arnaud Solandt says Washington is a good location because it's in the middle of their milk routes. Solandt says they hope to one day make a full scale production facility in Washington. Construction on the 2.75 acre site is expected to start this summer. To learn more about the company visit: http://www.montchevre.com/

Washington Pork

The H1N1 virus and a slumping economy haven't been kind to the pork industry. However some Washington County hog farmers seem to be growing. Board of Supervisors Chairman Jim Miksch says they've seen a lot of expansion requests lately. Supervisors this week are slated to sign off on such an expansion. The meeting starts tomorrow (6/2) morning at 9:30 in the Washington County Courthouse.

Kewash Enhancement

An enhancement project is being proposed for the Kewash Trailhead. The plan would revamp the landscape of a two block section of trail at north Avenue D and west to north F. It would remove some or all of the second growth trees and replace them with a preferred. The effort could take place over the next year or two.

School's out safety

Area schools will be out for the summer soon and that means more kids out during the day. Washington Police Chief Greg Goodman is reminding residents to use extra caution as there will be increased pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Goodman says it's easy to get distracted by cell phones and car stereos. He urges drivers to focus on driving while behind the wheel.

Washington Co. Historical Society launches website

Washington County's Historical Society is launching a website. Board member Terry Oneill says they decided to put some of their content online so tourists can plan a trip through Washington County's historical landmarks. Oneill says there's no real centralized archive of historical information about Washington County. He's hoping this website will change that. The site can be visited at www.washingtoncountyhistoricalsociety-Iowa.org

Hamakuah needs volunteers

Summer vacation is near, and teens will be looking for something to do. Hamakuah Youth Center Director Deb Bodenstiener says that means expanded hours for them. She says that also means they need extra help. She says anyone interested in volunteering should contact Hamakuah Place in Washington.

Riverside Council

The Riverside City Council will be holding a meeting the city hall today at 5:30. The council will begin with a closed session with an open meeting beginning at 6:30. Items to be discussed include approval of the agenda, the sheriffs report, painting the water tower, and an update from the city administration. There will also be a public hearing in order to discuss the Elimination of Sanitary Sewer Inflow Program and the SRF Loan. The public is invited to give input, however due to time constraints all comments will be limited to three minutes.

Summer reading

With so many activities taking place this summer, the Kalona Public Library reminds you that one of the best activities is simply reading a book. Their Summer Reading program will be starting up June 9 and the theme this year is Be Creative. Marissa Tartaglia with the library says the program will also incorporate music and art activities. She says the program has events and activities for all ages from kindergarten to teens. Information on the Be Creative Summer Reading Program can be found at 319-656-3501.