Sunday, June 7, 2009

New state committee formed in anticipation of further cuts

Iowa is receiving hundreds-of-millions of dollars in federal stimulus and recovery money, but a Southeast Iowa state lawmaker says tough budget times arent over. Fairfield Senator Becky Schmitz says Its unlikely that revenues will turn around by the time the Legislature reconvenes in January, and its unlikely that federal stimulus dollars will be so plentiful next year. Schmitz says the legislature needs to start planning for cuts now. She says theyre creating a a new State Government Reorganization Committee to find ways to improve state services, share costs across departments, increase efficiencies, and save money. 

Halcyon House Celebrates 50 years

The Halcyon House in Washington is celebrating it's 50th anniversary this year. The senior living center has expanded its programming and facility since was established in 1959. Executive Director Chris Marshal in the future they hope to allow more people to stay in their homes longer. Marshal says they'll recognize the facility's 50th year, they'll have a ceremony on June 19 in the front lawn. She says the public is invited to hear a reflection on the past, and what the future holds for the Halcyon House. 

Cancer Survivors Day

The American Cancer Society today honors the nearly 11 million cancer survivors today with National Cancer Survivors Day. The nationally-recognized commemoration honors cancer survivors across the country as well as the 110,000 survivors in Iowa. The American Cancer Society is a 3-million member grassroots organization that works to support patients and their families. The organization has fought to pass smoke-free laws, improve healthcare access, and raise money for cancer research. 

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 tomorrow 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.