11 tickets issued during alleged underage drinking party

An alleged underage drinking party resulted in 11 citations in Washington County over the holiday weekend. 911 reports indicate police were called to 2471 Palm Avenue just after ten Sunday night. Officers issued possession tickets to 10 people whose ages range from 17 to 20. 43 year old Richard Redlinger was cited under Washington County's social host ordinance, which provides penalties to those who knowingly allow underage drinking on their property. 

Clarinetist featured at Learn at Lunch

The September Learn at Lunch will feature music from a blind clarinet player. Dick Ramberg lost his sight to retinal cancer as a child. However, Ramberg still found success as a musician, financial advisor and advocate for people with disabilities. He'll be sharing his story in Washington this month. The Learn at Lunch is on September 21st. Ramberg will also be preforming with the Barbary Coast Dixie Land Band at the Washington Community Center. Contact the chamber of commerce for more information or to make a reservation.

Hispanic Heritage

Columbus Junction will be kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month with some south of the border music. Community Development member Mallory Smith says the cultural event will feature the music of Las Guitarras de Mexico on September 18. Smith says the Des Moines-based group specializes in traditional Mexican ballads played with authentic instruments. She says the band will play during the Farmers Market from 4:30-6:30 and at Hacienda Restaurant from 8-10.

Republican gubernatorial candidate says SC overstepped bounds on gay marriage ruling

A Republican gubernatorial hopeful says one of his top priorities is allowing Iowans to vote whether to allow same sex marriage. Rod Roberts is from Carroll. He's currently serving in the Iowa House of Representatives. He says the State Supreme Court overstepped it's bounds in making the ruling that allows same sex marriage.

Election Day

Voters across Iowa head to the polls today to elect school board members. In Washington, they'll decide on a different school issue as well. Voters will be asked if the district should levy nearly 12 million dollars in general obligation bonds for the first phase of a massive facilities overhaul. The plan calls for the building a a new high school, renovating the current one, and turning it into the junior high. The polls are open until 8:00 this evening.

Absentee taxpayers

Washington County is having some trouble with absentee taxpayers. Treasurer Jeff Garrett says his office has run into numerous situations where they attempt to collect property taxes, and find out that there is no longer a home at the location, or the structure is uninhabitable. Garrett says this often happens with mobile homes. He says the county is pretty limited in these types of situations because the structures aren't worth much at a tax sale.

Sheriff warns of potential scam

Washington County Sheriff Jerry Dunbar is warning residents about a potential phone scam where the caller claims to be raising money for law enforcement. Dunbar says the local sheriff's organization and the Iowa State Sheriff's and Deputy Association no longer solicit by phone, and rely on direct mail. He says the best way to tell if a letter is legitimate is to look for his signature and the acronym ISSDA. He says the phone scammers claim to be with the United States Deputies Association. He says they are looking into what can be done with the organization and it's claims.

School Board preview

Washington School Board members will be going over election results at tomorrow's (9/9) meeting. They'll also be selecting a delegate for the 2009 Iowa State Association of School Boards Assembly, and sign off on a Riverboat Foundation Grant Proposal. Members are also slated to approve an architect recommendations from the facilities committee. The meeting starts at 7:00 in the school administration building.

Leadership Washington

Leadership Washington celebrates its 20th anniversary this month. Main Street Executive Director Amy Vetter says the 20th anniversary class includes seventeen individuals representing a wide range of organizations in Washington County. She says Leadership Washington covers a number of important issues to Washington such as economic development, industry, and agriculture. Vetter says a special luncheon will be held tomorrow (9/9).

Conservation grants available

The Washington Soil and Water Conservation District is encouraging residents to apply for conservation grants. WSWC Secretary Teresa Munn says they want to get residents interested in improving and maintaining the natural beauty of Washington County. Applications must be postmarked by December 1. For more information, call 653-6654.

Harkin hopes to prevent healthcare related infections

One of Iowas US Senators wants to help prevent healthcare-associated infections. Senator Tom Harkin recently announced more than $880,000 to help persons infected with these conditions after entering a hospital for another problem. Harkin says 1.7 million people are affected annually by HAIs which results in about 99,000 deaths.

Labor Day

Government offices, financial institutions and many businesses are closed today in observance of Labor Day. The Washington County Mini Bus will also not be running. Labor day was first celebrated in1882 when workers in New York City marched from city hall to Union Square in the first ever Labor Day Parade. Congress declared it a legal holiday 12 years later.

Transit Officers

The Washington County Sheriff's Office is hiring some transportation officers. Sheriff Jerry Dunbar says they've been asked to house more federal inmates than initially expected in the new jail. Dunbar says they were unable to find enough certified officers for the job. He says that's why they're creating a pool of candidates who will undergo training and work for the department on a part time basis.

School Elections

Voters across Iowa head to the polls tomorrow to elect school board members. In Washington Five candidates are seeking three open seats. There are contested races in districts five and seven. In Mid Prairie, four candidates are seeking three at large seats. Two of them are incumbents. In Highland there are no contested races, and all running are incumbents.

Heidie Vittetoe

A Washington School Board candidate up for reelection tomorrow says her experience is one of her biggest assests. Heidie Vittetoe is running unopposed in district 6. Vittetoe was initially scheduled as a guest on the Washington Page for KCIIs Candidates series last week, but requested her time be given to the Common Ground for Washington Schools group.

Kalona City Council

The Kalona City Council will decide on a number of city revitalization plans during their meeting this Tuesday. Chamber member Laurie Mostek says much of the focus of the project has been improving the streets and infrastructure in town. The council will also discuss approval of 53-thousand dollars for the lift station project among other issues. The public is invited to come and voice their opinion, but will be limited to five minutes per person.

Energy Expo

The Beach Boys arent the only ones focusing on renewable energy in southeast Iowa this week. The Iowa Renewable Energy Association, or I-Renew, will hold a renewable energy and sustainability expo this Saturday. I-Renew Executive Director Mike Carberry says the group will cover everything from solar to geothermal energy and ways to make buildings energy efficient. Carberry says they will also discuss green jobs and how to live a healthier lifestyle.

Operation ReLeaf

Alliant Energy is encouraging residents to promote resource conservation by planting trees this fall. Allaints Nancy Craig says in the Operation ReLeaf campaign offers three-thousand landscaping trees to residents for as low as $25. She says planting trees is an appealing and cost-efficient way to reduce home heating and cooling costs. Craig says order forms are available on Alliant Energys website or by calling the DNR at 515-281-6749.

Doggie Paddle

The third annual Washington Dog Park's "Doggie Paddle" is this Wednesday. Before park officials drain the pool in Sunset Park, dog owners are invited to let their pooch have a dip. Admission is five dollars per dog, and they must be current on their shots. Proceeds benefit the Washington Dog Park. Paws and More will also be on hand offering microchipping. The Doggie Paddle runs from 4-8 this Wednesday.

KCII and Hy-Vee Great Grab Giveaway Grand Prize Winners

Congratulations to Ruth Bellinger, Orbie Brown, Connie Reed, Rose Streff and Aimee Vayan, our  KCII and Hy-Vee Great Grab Giveaway grand prize winners.  They all won a 3-minute/$100 shopping spree at the Washington Hy-Vee that starts this morning at 10am.  They also get to get inside the Great Grab Box to collect other prizes and time certificates to ad time and money to their shopping spree.

NEWS UPDATE - Area Schools Below Standards

The Iowa Department of Education reports that a record number of Iowa schools are failing to meet the standards of federal No Child Left Behind legislation. Approximately 20%--293 of Iowas 1,442 schools fail to meet the legislative targets on test scores, attendance and graduation rates. Schools that fail to meet goals for 2 years in a row fall into the category of in need of assistance. Area schools include Washingtons Stewart and Lincoln Elementary, Mid Prairie Middle School, and Columbus High School.

Beach Boys in Fairfield

Fairfield will become the green energy capitol of America this Labor Day when the rock band the Beach Boys will hold a benefit concert at the middle school. The citys Ken Chawkin says Fairfields mayor will also award lead singer Mike Love the title of Energy Czar for the day. Chawkins says the band is one of the most vocal advocates for energy independence. He says Mondays concert will be one of the nations first green concerts.

US Cellular Tower

US Cellular customers in Pleasant Plain received a boost recently with the completion of a new signal tower south of town. US Cellulars Kevin Schuster says the new tower will give customers access to their 3G broadband network, giving them high-speed internet access on their cell phones. Schuster says with cell phones so important these days, the new tower will help local residents receive quality service.

Iowa Soil

A Naturalist at the Washington County Conservation Center says much of what Iowa is famous for can be credited to what's under our feet. Pam Holz says soil that makes for rich farming is also ideal for wetlands. Holz says that's because it contains a high percentage of clay, which holds water very well. She says this is why farmers often need to till their fields. On the other hand, she says it's not ideal for septic tanks. She says they need to be above the water table.

Heritage Reports

The Heritage Area Agency on Aging is looking for more representation from Washington County. Max Lewis is Chairman of the Washington County Taskforce. He told supervisors this week they are looking for at least two people to serve three year terms. Heritage is a division of the Iowa Department of Aging. Anyone interested in serving should contact the Washington County Board of Supervisors.

Childrens Foundation

A couple from Washington is embarking on a fundraising tour for the Children's Foundation next week. Steve and Diana Stout had initially decided to buy a retirement home in Mexico. They later decided to sell they're home and travel the US to raise money for the foundation which aids abused and abandoned children. The Stouts are getting ready to travel all over the US in their motor home to solicit money from Rotary organizations in various communities. Steve has been involved in Washington's Rotary. They plan to leave on Wednesday.

Piano Wiz Kids

The Iowa Mennonite School's Fine Art Series kicks off this month with "Piano Wiz Kids." Instructor Susan See says the event will feature kids as young as 11 playing some of the most difficult piano pieces ever created. The IMS Fine Arts series will also feature music from Carrie Newcomer in February, and It's About All Reunion which is program made in the spirit of old time radio in March. "Piano Wiz Kids" is September 12.

Vets Picnic

Military men and women are being invited to the third annual Washington County All Veteran's Picnic. Post 29 American Legion Vice Commander Barb Duder says vets have unique bond. The picnic starts with a social hour at Marr Park tomorrow afternoon at three with a social hour. Duder says people should bring a side dish for the potluck.

Sports Clinic

Iowa Mennonite School will be offering a free sports clinic this month for students wishing to participate in athletics. The schools Larry Swartzendruber says the September 19 event will be a joint girls softball and basketball clinic. He says the softball portion of the day will be from 9-11 am with basketball from noon-2 pm. Swartzendruber says a boys clinic for similar sports will be held in November. For more inforation, call 319-656-2073.

NEWS UPDATE - 1 killed in rollover accident

A 16 year old Tiffen girl was killed, and two other teens were hospitalized after a rollover accident on I-380, near North Liberty last night. The Iowa State Patrol Says Alyssa Benedict was a passenger in the van, and that she was not wearing her seatbelt. Another passenger, 16 year old Rachel Petersen of Tiffen, and the driver 15 year old Rachel Stewart of North Liberty were taken to the University of Iowa Hospital. Police say Stewart lost control when the van entered the median and overturned, coming to rest on its top. They say the accident remains under investigation.

Greiner pulling for Brandstand's return

A former state lawmaker from Keota is lobbying hard to see former governor Terry Brandstad return to office. Sandy Greiner says Brandstand's previous experience dealing with the farm crisis in the 1980s would be helpful in the current economic climate. Greiner says Brandstads experience with the Flood of 93 will also help him with recovery efforts after last summers floods. She says the Draft Brandstad PAC is currently encouraging him to run again. More information can be found at www.draftbrandstand.com

To till, or not to till

A U.S. Department of Agriculture study suggests conventional tillage practices could actually hold back more carbon than a no-till operation. Researchers have found that below the surface, plowed fields hold just as much, if not more carbon than no till. However, they say no till fields will contain more carbon, if they are left that way. A common practice is to plow one year, and no till the next. Iowa State University Soil Scientist Mahdi Al-Kaisi says leaving crop residue has many other benefits, including a reduction in erosion.

Supervisors approve English Valley Estates

Washington County Supervisors have given the green light to a subdivision near Kalona. English Valley Estates will be located just west of town. Assistant County Engineer Jacob Thorius told supervisors this week, the last thing developers will have to do, is raise the elevation of the site. Supervisors approved the final plat for the project. That means construction can begin as soon as all DNR specifications are met.

Downtown construction schedule pushed back

Construction on the south Side of Washington's square is taking longer than initially predicted. City Administrator Dave Plymann says progress on the new library and street upgrades were delayed because of material shortages. Plymann says crews are currently working on flooring and painting in the library. He says they hope to have everything wrapped up in a few weeks.

Snap-On No Compromise tour planned

Plans are in the works for a Snap-On Tools promotional event in downtown Washington. Joe Carroll is a Snap On sales developer based in Washington. He says the No Compromise tour will feature a custom built vehicle known as the Glo-Mad, which is a 57 Chevy Nomad, partially built out of Snap On Tools. The event is scheduled for October tenth in Downtown Washington.

Louisa businesses fair well with smoke free act

More than a year after the Smokefree Air act was passed, Louisa County Tobacco Use Prevention Coordinator Kaitlyn Wintermeyer says only three businesses have received violations in the past year. She says none of these businesses received a second notice. She says this shows how supportive employers are of the act.

Non profits invited to meet

Non-profit organizations in Washington are invited to a special Chamber of Commerce meeting next Thursday (9/10) at 3:30 pm. Executive Director Tim Coffey says the meeting will be especially valuable for volunteer or non-profit board members, as they will discuss new policies that organizations must follow. For more information and to reserve a seat, call 653-3272.

Final day of election interviews

This is the final day (9/04) of school board candidate interviews on KCII. We'll be airing the final segment of the Mid Prairie meet the candidates forum on In Touch With Southeast Iowa during the Mid Day Magazine. We'll also air an interview with members of the common ground for Washington School's committee on the Washington Page during the Morning Magazine.

GOP Gubernatorial candidate stops by KCII

A Republican gubernatorial hopeful says he would handle flood recovery in a much different manner. Rod Roberts is a GOP member of the Iowa House, from Carroll. He says the state should have responded more quickly last summer. Roberts says he was happy that money from the economic emergency fund was appropriated in January this year, however...he feels it was "a day late, and a dollar short." Roberts says only about a third of the fund was used for flood recovery. The Carroll Republican stopped by KCII's Studios yesterday (9/2) on his way to the Old Thresher's Reunion in Mt. Pleasant.

YMCA Childcare director: preschool vital to success later

Iowa House Speaker Pat Murphy says they hope to offer ninety percent of four year olds access to preschool by 2011. Murphy says studies suggest learning during the preschool years helps prepare students for success later in life. That's an assessment Washington YMCA Childcare Director Shalon Hoyle agrees with. Hoyle says preschool is also a time when children begin to learn social skills. She says that's why their program is "play based." The Y's program is funded through the state's voluntary preschool program.

Candidate interviews

KCII continues school board candidate interviews today (9/3). Tsalika Drown will be on the Washington Page at 7:30 during the morning magazine. Drown is a challenger in Washington's district 5. There will also be more comments from last week's Mid Prairie candidates forum on In Touch with Southeast Iowa, during the Mid Day Magazine. These, and programs from earlier this week are available online, head to our home page and click on Radio Plus.

Ag Expo planned

The latest in agriculture technology will be on display near Crawfordsville this this month. The ISU Extension service says the Advances in Precision Agriculture EXPO will feature demonstrations on auto steer, auto shutoff planters and strip tilling and planting with guidance systems. The EXPO is being held on September 17 at the ISU Southeast Iowa Research Farm. Contact the Washington County Extension for More information.

ISU Extension 20 taking shape

With the restructuring of state ISU extension offices, southeast Iowas Region 20 is beginning to take shape. The Extensions Kathy Vance says this region includes the counties of Louisa, Henry, Des Moines, and Lee. She says with the restructuring, county and area director positions have been eliminated and replaced by regional directors. Vance says Region 20 is one of the most progressive offices in Iowa, holding more meetings than other offices and working to overcome budget cuts.

Sigourney hopes to give all students laptops

Students at Sigourney High School will be getting a bonus this school year. The schools Shannon Web says during their Apple Roll-Out tonight, the school will be handing out some unique learning tools to high school students. Web says in the next few years they hope to give all K-12 students in their district their own laptops. She says with technology such a big element in teaching today, the laptops will be a good addition to students studies. The Apple Roll-Out will be held tonight in the high school at 6:30.

Zahs nominated for NEA Award

A former Washington Junior High teacher is being honored by the National Education Association. Michael Zahs, who retired last year, was nominated for a Teaching Excellence award. While Zahs did not win the award, he is being recognized during the Salute to Excellence in Education Gala in Washington D-C. Iowa State Education Association President Chris Bern says Zahs is "really the embodiment of what teaching and learning is all about."

St. James forms Right to Life chapter

Washington is home to a new chapter of a national pro-life organization. The Washington Right to Life group is based in St. James Catholic Church and will hold regularly meetings the first Tuesday of every month. The groups Angela Fritz says their mission is to raise awareness of the rights of unborn children and support life from conception. For more information, contact St. James Catholic Church

Supervisor Chair: zoning objections based on lack of information

A committee is almost done drafting a zoning ordinance for Washington County. The proposal has drawn fire from some members of the community. Board of Supervisor Chair Jim Miksch says part of that, is from a lack of information. Miksch, and other supervisors have recently sat in on lengthy discussions on the developing ordinance. A final public hearing is expected near the beginning of October. After that it would move on to the Board of Supervisors for final approval, or dismissal

Local counties among disaster areas

Jefferson, Iowa, Keokuk and Mahaska are among the 22 counties declared federal disaster areas due to recent crop losses during storms earlier this summer. Washington County was given secretarial designation. That expands eligibility for individuals to get USDA 

Farmers need to report damage

Local farmers are urged to report uninsured crop and property damages due to the recent flash flooding. Emergency Management Coordinator Larry Smith says teams will be coming in to assess losses and they need reports from local victims. Smith says anyone wishing to report losses should call 641-660-1825 as soon as possible as the damage assessment team will be working in the next few days.

Fairfield man injured while fleeing police

A Fairfield man was hospitalized over the weekend after rolling his vehicle during a police chase. The Iowa State Patrol says 25 year old Judah James Bolser was eastbound on Highway 34 attempting to elude officers when his SUV rolled over and came to rest on the drivers side. The State Patrol says Bolser was driving under the influence during the time of the accident.

Washington School candidate: invest now, save later

An incumbent on the Washington School Board says the district can save money later, by investing now. Patty Roe is up for reelection in district five. To hear more from Roe tune in to the KCII Morning Magazine for the Washington Page. We'll be interviewing a different candidate each day this week on the program. 

M-P School candidate: arts integral to education

A Mid Prairie School Board member up for reelection next week says the arts are an integral part of a student's overall education. Jack Dillon is the longest serving member currently on the board. He says a sense of belonging is vital to learning. Dillon took part in a candidates forum. To hear more from that forum, tune in to the KCII Mid Day for In Touch With Southeast Iowa. 

Angus Association welcomes Jr. member from Washington

The American Angus Association is welcoming a new junior member from Washington. Riley Sieren will join nearly 33,000 other active adult and junior members in the largest beef registry association in the world. Junior members are eligible to register cattle, and take part in Angus Association sponsored shows and other national and regional events. 

Salsa Judging

The tenth annual Washington Farmers Market Tasters Choice Salsa Contest is this tomorrow (9/3). Market Master Bob Shepherd says contestants need to furnish a labeled quart of their own home made salsa by 4:45. He says sampling starts at 5:00 in Central Park. After that, tasters will be asked to vote on their favorites. Shepherd stresses that double dipping wont be allowed, and that everyone is invited to enter a salsa, or serve as a judge. 

Common Ground hopeful facilities committee will entice voters

A group that's hoping Washington School bond measure is approved on election day says voters should be aware of a new facilities committee. John Thorne says the committee will serve as a sort of facilities watchdog, and act as a liaison between taxpayers, and the school board. The measure calls for issuing nearly $12-million for phase one of a massive overhaul of all the district's buildings, and construction of a new high school.

Schmitz: local schools not skimping on student support

A local lawmaker says despite an economic recession, area schools aren't skimping on student support. Fairfield State Senator Becky Schmitz says statistics show an increase in per-student funding across the board at local schools. She says in the last three years, total per-student funding has increased by at least 14-percent among area schools. Schmitz says these increases has much to do with bipartisan support for education in the legislature.

Lewis: Schools should be run like a business

A Washington School Board candidate says schools should be run like a business. Sheryl Lewis is running in district seven. She says businesses are always looking for ways to reduce expenses. To hear more from Lewis tune in to the KCII Morning Magazine (9/1) for the Washington Page. That program will be played again during the Mid Day Magazine.

Bontrager: Schools need to be aggressive finding funding

A candidate for Mid-Prairie School Board says they need to aggressively seek extra funding sources. Challenger Stacia Bontrager says one of a board members biggest responsibilities is making sure the district is financially healthy. Bontrager participated in candidates forum last week. To hear more from that forum, tune in to the KCII Mid Day Magazine (9/1) for In Touch With Southeast Iowa.

Vine Avenue completed

The Washington County Engineer says his office has completed a project funded by stimulus money. David Patterson says Vine Avenue between 150th and highway 22 is open after being reconstructed. He says they received more than $732,000 from the federal government. Patterson says the comparison between the old and new highway is "like night and day."

Park Board discusses security measures

Washington Park Board members are talking security at tonight's (9/1) meeting. Parks Superintendent Tim Widmer says they've already taken some steps after a break in at the pool. The board will also be brushing up on workers compensation rules, and setting the 2010 pool season dates. The meeting starts at 6:30 in Washington City Hall.

IMS alum's work to be displayed

The work of an IMS graduate will be on display beginning next week as part of the schools Stories in Stone exhibit. IMS Director of Development Larry Swartzendruber says class of 92 graduate Adam Flemmings abstract sculptures of alabaster and limestone are made with only a traditional hammer and chisel. Flemmings work will be open for viewing beginning September 12 and some pieces may be purchased.

Brinning brings home bacon at swine showing

A Keota 4-Her won top honors in swine show at the Iowa State Fair. Youth Coordinator Kati Peiffer says McKenna Brinning exhibited the Grand Champion Market Barrow August 18. Brinnings winning pig was auctioned off during the State Fairs Sale of Champions August 22.

Cheers and jeers at Loebsack's town hall meeting

Eastern Iowa Congressman Dave Loebsack was greeted by a mix of cheers and jeers during a town hall meeting Saturday in Washington. Healthcare reform was at the center of the discussion, and one of the biggest concerns was that legislation currently on the table, would drive private insurers out of business. Those at the meeting in favor of healthcare reform says insurance companies already make life and death decisions for people, and spend too much on overhead costs.

Keokuk man killed in crash near Coralville

A Keokuk man was killed yesterday in a single vehicle crash in Johnson County. The Iowa State Patrol says 20 year old Nathan J Bowden was northbound on 380, near Coralville at about 1:00 AM when he crossed the median and smashed into a light pole. Police say the accident remains under investigation.

Chamber holds informational meeting ahead of bond vote

The Washington Chamber of Commerce is hosting an informational meeting on the upcoming school bond issue. Chamber Executive Director Tim Coffey says they want citizens to be as informed as possible before election day. Coffey says unlike some chambers, they're not taking a position on the bond issue. The meeting is tomorrow night at 7:00 at the high school auditorium.

IASB offers advice on choosing school board members

School elections are next week, and the Iowa Association of School Boards has some recommendations for choosing candidates. The IASB says while there is no "ideal" board member profile, they should have a "laser like focus on improving achievement for all students...act with professionalism and integrity when monitoring district finances...and understand the board's roles and responsibilities."

Kalona revitalization

Downtown Kalona may be getting a facelift, depending on how a planning meeting goes tonight (8/31). Chamber board member Laurie Mostek says much of the attention is focused on street resurfacing and water draining issues. Mostek says an Iowa City-based firm will be on hand tonight during the meeting to discuss renovation plans and see what areas residents would like improved. She says community members are encouraged to participate in the meeting.

BOS Preview

Washington County Supervisors are slated to accept the final plat for the English Valley Estates subdivision at this week's meeting. They'll also continue discussions on a property tax abatement request. Supervisors are also expected to approve a joint service agreement for the E-911 Service Board. The meeting starts at 9:30 tomorrow morning in the Washington County Courthouse.

IUB: winterize now

As summer begins to fade, the Iowa Utilities Board is urging residents to get a jump on winterizing their homes. The IUB's Rob Hillesland says that includes things like putting plastic over windows, replacing aging insulation and installing more efficient doors and windows. More information about weatherazation is available on the IUB's website.

Moonlight Paddle

Southeast Iowans will be able to enjoy a canoe ride under the stars this Friday (9/4) at Louisa County Conservations Moonlight Paddle. The groups Katie Hammond says the event will feature a leisurely cruise along the Odessa Wildlife Trail beginning at 9:00 pm. She says the event will run until 11:00 that night, and boats are available to rent for $10- per person for a double canoe and $15 for a kayak. Call 319-523-8381 for more information.

Small business loans

Small business owners can get a hand recovering after certain natural disasters. Iowa State Universitys Small Business Development Center will offer support at no cost to business owners in recovering from floods, fires, and tornadoes. Center Director Jim Heckmann says the program has already assisted over three-thousand disaster victims and 350 companies.

Loebsack to visit Washington

Congressman Dave Loebsack is in Washington tomorrow (8/29) for a town hall meeting at the high . One likely discussion topic is healthcare reform. Loebsack has told KCII many of the problems stem from issues with Medicare and other programs. He says while Americas quality of healthcare is one of the best, the problem is making it accessible to everyone. The Loebsack will be speaking at the high school auditorium Saturday morning at 9:30 am.

M-P Candidates take questions

Candidates for Mid-Prairie School Board took questions last night during a public forum. Some areas of discussion included the new administration sharing agreement with Keota, the Home School Assistance Program, and the role of a board members. Incumbents Jim Hussey and Jack Dillon, are vying for three at large seats against newcomers Stacia Bontrager and Angi Wilson. To hear highlights from the Mid-Prairie Candidates forum, tune in to In Touch With Southeast Iowa all next week during the KCII Mid Day Magazines.

Final Satellite voting and Demon opener

The Demon Football Team opens the season tonight (8/28), but those in attendance will be able to do more than take in football. Washington County Auditor Bill Fredrick says they will be offering the final satellite polling place ahead of school elections. Tonight's polls will will be open from 4:30 to 9:00 at Case Field.

Season flu shots expected to be early

Washington County's public health administrator says they could be offering seasonal flu shots a little earlier than normal this year. Edie Nebel says that's because they'll be offering a vaccine for the H1N1 virus as well. She says nothing is definite at this point. She says it's also unclear how much H1N1 vaccine Washington County will receive.

Supervisor hopes to lobby state on voting 911 commissioners

A Washington County Supervisor hopes to lobby the state legislature to allow more voting members on the local 911 Commission. Steve Davis says Iowa law prevents contracted entities from having a vote on such commissions. He says they hope to be in contact with lawmakers to have the rules changed.

Keokuk, Wash, Jefferson Counties hardest hit by heavy rain

Parts of southeast Iowa says more than seven inches of rainfall between Wednesday and early Thursday. State Climatologist Harry Hillaker says parts of Washington, Jefferson and Keokuk Counties were hit the hardest Hillaker says while it's been a very wet year, The state is still not on pace to set any precipitation records.

Home tax credits offered

As the economy starts to recover, more incentives are becoming available for first time homebuyers. Iowa Association of Realtors President Terry Knapp says first time buyers can receive up to $8,000 in tax credits. Knapp says low mortgage rates and high inventory in Iowa have kept the state's housing market stable. He says purchases must be made by November 30 to qualify.

Better communities program

Washington residents will have a chance to learn how to better their community September 8. The YMCA will host Kent Zimmerman, CEO of the Wallace Centers of Iowa who will discuss building communities through dialogue, active learning, and citizen engagement. Zimmerman will also show participants how they can apply for certain grants to improve the community.

400 voters cast absentee ballots

More than 400 voters in the Washington School District have cast absentee ballots so far ahead of next month's election. County Auditor Bill Fredrick says 213 of them came from satellite polling places earlier this week. Fredrick says all absentee ballots are stored until they are ready to be tabulated on the actual election day. There will be one more satellite polling location this Friday at Case Field during the Demon Football home opener.

M-P meet the candidates night

Mid Prairies Meet the Candidates night is this evening (8/27) at the high school. Education Association President Karri Bell says all candidates have been deeply involved in both the school district and surrounding communities. She says two candidates are incumbents with one being the current board president. Bell says the Meet the Candidates night will give participants an opportunity to better know all hopefuls and to find out which is the best choice for them. The event starts tonight at 6:30.

County to devise disaster mitigation plan

Washington County is working on a hazard mitigation plan, with some financial help from Homeland Security. County Engineer David Patterson says they already have an emergency preparedness plan in place. He says this is what to do in the long term in the wake of a disaster. Patterson says they are working with the East Central Iowa Council of Governments to develop the plan. The total grant amount is around $38,000.

Emergency planning to discuss H1N1

The Washington County Emergency Planning Committee is preparing for the H1N1 Virus. Public Health Adminstrator Edie Nebel says they're discussing planning and the forming of an ethics committee to deal with vaccination. Nebel says they're also talking about a Regional Emergency Preparedness exercise that's coming up in October. The Committee is meeting tomorrow (8/28) morning at the Sheriff's Office at 10:00.

Wellman Community Center expected to be done by November

Wellman will receive nearly $800,000 to help build a new community center thanks to the USDAs Community Facilities Program. Mayor Ryan Miller says the $6-million facility will fill many of the towns needs. He says the building will hold both workout and childcare facilities, and will be used by local schools. Miller says with the federal grants and funds raised from the community, they should have enough to finish and furnish the new community center. He says as of now the project is about 70-percent finished. He expects the center to open sometime in November.

WCRF fall grant cycle begins

Applications are available for the Washington County Riverboat Foundation's fall grant cycle. They can be downloaded on their website at www.washingtoncountyriverboatfoundation.org, or picked up at the their office in Washington. They advise applicants to review all guidelines before filing the application because some procedures have changed. The deadline to file is October 9.

Watermelon Day

The Washington YMCA's Watermelon Day celebration is this evening (8/27). Y Executive Director Greg Woller says the annual event serves as a sort of end of summer party. He says many of the activities will center on watermelon. Woller says they'll be closing down the block of East Main Street that the Y is on for the event. Things get started at 5:00. Admission is seven dollars. Kids under five are free.

Riverside 4-Hers bring home Swin Showmanship Award

Two Washington County 4-Hers earned top honors in livestock showmanship at the State Fair last week. Lexi and and Macey Marek of Riverside were named top showmen for the intermediate and junior divisions of swine showing. ISU Extension Director Gene Mohling says showmanship is different from other livestock competitions because it focuses on the presentation of the animal rather than the animal itself. Both Lexi and Macey are members of the Jackson Jets 4-H Club.

Facilities committee continues architect screenings

The Washington School Facilities Committee is moving to the next phase of architect screenings tomorrow (8/27). They'll be interviewing Cedar Rapids based OPN at 3:30, Des Moines based DLR Group at 5:00, and West Des Moines' SVPA at 6:30. Architects are being chosen to help with a proposed facility overhaul of all school district buildings, and construction of a new high school. Whether that happens is contingent upon voters approving more than $11-million in bonds during the September 8th Election.

Orscheln to move to old Wal-Mart building

Washington's old Wal-Mart building will be occupied again by next year. Orscheln Farm and Home's corporate office tells KCII their Washington store will be moving to the former Wal-Mart location sometime during the the 2010 calendar year. The store is currently operating in the 1600 Block of East Washington. Management at the local location say they are unable to comment at this time. The company specializes in outdoor, farm, ranch and rural lifestyle items.

Washington Co. behind state, federal unemployment numbers

Statewide unemployment numbers edged up to 6.5 percent last month, hitting a mark not seen since 1986. Iowa Work Force Development Director Elizabeth Buck says most jobs were lost in manufacturing. In Washington County, unemployment numbers dropped slightly from 5.3 to 5.2 percent last month. Local and statewide numbers are still favorable when compared with the nation as a whole. The U-S unemployment rate was at 9.4 percent in July.

Crop Update

Cool, wet weather continues to keep Iowa crop development behind schedule. However, most corn and soybeans are rated in good to excellent condition. Gene Mohling is a regional director with the ISU Extension Service. He says pests and disease continue to be a concern. 93 percent of corn is in or past the milk stage, which is on par with the five year average. 88 percent of soybeans are setting pods, which is about eight percent behind average.

ID thieves could use old medication bottles

Simply throwing away prescription drug containers may be a dangerous way to get rid of them. Senior Medicare Patrol Planning Director Brenda Sayre says the user information on the labels can be used by identity thieves to retrieve valuable personal information. Sayre says any papers that have social security numbers or Medicare numbers should be shredded to avoid danger. She also says blacking out a persons name or other personal information on labels is also helpful.

ICA regional meeting

New products and services will be the focus at the Iowa Cattlemens Associations regional meeting next Thursday (9/2). ICA Communications Manager Trent Wellman says the organizations executive vice president will be on hand to provide an ICA update, and a DNR representative will speak to the group about watershed programs for cow and calf operations. Wellman says the group will also hold an election for the Southeast Regional Vice President position. If you are interested in attending, call 1-800-888-1730.

Semi annual manure application traning

The Washington County Extension Office is reminding confinement operators and commercial manure applicators that they are required to undergo regular training. Iowa law mandates two hours of continuing education annually, and or take and pass an exam once every three years. The continuing education and the test are available at local DNR offices. For more information contact the Washington County Extension.

SE Iowans bring home big rabbit prizes

Two southeast Iowans won big at the State Fair this past week with a little help from some unusually large rabbits. Marge Westercamp of Batavia won top honors in the Largest Rabbit contest on Friday with Fawny, her 20 lb. 4 oz. pet. Westercamps rabbit easily stood above the next largest one by more than four pounts. Brightons Jennifer Wharton placed second with 16 lb. 2 oz. rabbit Jack.

Slain couple's estate sells for $1 million

The estate of a southeast Iowa couple killed by their son has been auctioned off to seven buyers for nearly one million dollars. Sandra and Michael Bentler, and their three daughters we're killed in 2006 at their home in rural Bonaparte. Their son Shawn was convicted of the slayings in 2007. The 445 acre estate was divided into seven tracts of land. One included the Bentler home and 28 acres of surrounding land. State law prohibits those convicted of murder from benefiting from their victims' deaths.

Redbrick School becomes museum

A new museum to the area's country schools has been established just outside Washington. Carlton Mangold, with the County Historic Preservation Commission, says the Red Brick School House was one of nearly 150 that once operated in Washington County. Mangold says about eight thousand dollars was donated to renovating the Red Brick School House. He says a great deal of historical items were also given to the effort. There will be an open house the last weekend in September.

Mt. Pleasant woman injured after rollover

A Mt. Pleasant woman was hospitalized last night after a crash on a Henry County road near highway 34. The Iowa State Patrol says 79 year old Sarah Hassenfritz lost control of her SUV near 260th and Nebraska Avenue when she entered the road ditch causing the vehicle to overturn. They say she was not wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash. Hassenfritz was taken to Henry County Hospital, and later transferred to University of Iowa Hospital. The State Patrol says the accident remains under investigation.

Miller House considered for Natl. Historic Places

The Washington City Historic Preservation Commission is lobbying to have a piece of property added to the National Registry of Historic Places. The commission is meeting tomorrow (8/26) at 7:00 at the public library to review nomination papers. Individuals who are curious about the National Register of Historic Places nomination process are encouraged to attend.

Northey to visit SE Iowa

Iowa Agriculture Secretary Bill Northey will be swinging through the area next week. He's hosting town meetings at the Farm Bureau Offices in Washington and Sigourney. Northey will also attend an event recognizing Iowa football coach Hayden Fry in Coralville. All of the visits are set for Friday September fourth. He'll be in Coralville at 10:00 am, Washington at 1:00 pm and Sigourney at 3:00 pm.