Washington County Roads announcement

Washington County would like to notify the public about the road conditions after Thursday night’s ice and snow storm. County personnel have been working since 5 a.m. on Friday, December 19 to try and remove a thick layer of ice, sleet and snow mixture. The general road conditions for the county roads contain areas of bare pavement and then areas of at least an inch of ice, sleet and snow pack. As a result of these road conditions, they are urging the public to drive with caution and to treat the roads as if they are still completely covered. Washington County will continue to work on clearing the roads as long as the material keeps coming off Friday and will be back out again Saturday trying to clear the roads.

Washington County Sheriff Reports

Sheriff Jerry Dunbar reports on today's conditions



Find more KCII audio here

Highway 218 update

Highway 218 in Washington County is now listed at "wet" by the Iowa DOT. However, temperatures are dropping, and driving conditions may change.

The previous towing restriction for 218 is lifted.

Audio about Washington County roads

Washington County Roads report from the Maintenance Foreman. Heard on KCII today during Midday Magazine.


Find more KCII audio here

Cancellation list 9 a.m.

Schools

-Washington Schools closed

-St. James closed
no preschool

-Columbus Schools closed

-Highland Schools closed

-IMS closed

-Keota Schools closed

-Lone Tree Schools closed

-Mid Prairie Schools closed

-Sigourney Schools closed

-WACO Schools closed

-Wapello Schools closed

-Mt. Pleasant Public Schools closed

-Mt. Pleasant Christian School closed

-Winfield Mount Union Schools closed

-HACAP Head Start closed

-Kirkwood Community College all locations closed

--------------

Community Updates

-Washington County Mini Bus is closed

-Washington Y senior dining, home delivered meals in Washington and Brighton and the Hospitals Meals on Wheels program are canceled

-Wellman Senior Dining closed

-Keokuk County congregate meal sites are closed

-The Area Agency on Aging meal program in Columbus Junction and Columbus City is canceled

-Snow emergency for the City of Riverside.

-Louisa County government offices open at 10 a.m.

-Henry County Courthouse is closed

-Parkview Home in Wayland Christmas Party is rescheduled for Monday at 1:30

-Private Pesticide Training in Washington and Sigourney has been canceled

-No group exercise classes at the Washington Y

--------------

Businesses

-Lending Hands Adult Day Care closed

-Riverside VFW closed

-Sunrise Child Care in Wellman closed

-Dental Care by the Square in Washington is closed

-Curves in Washington opening at noon

Department of Transportation announcement

US 218: from US 61 South to I-80; I-380
roadway is completely covered with mixed snow ice or slush, towing services prohibited

last updated today at 6:58 AM

Photo downtown

Truck coated with ice in downtown. 5:15 a.m. December 19, 2008. (Ben Stanton/KCII)

Morning photos

Downtown Washington 5:15 a.m. December 19, 2008. (Ben Stanton/KCII)

Ice cancels schools, covers roads

Heavy ice observed downtown Washington. The Washington County Public Safety Center reports that some roads are better than others, but travel is not advised. Schools are canceled today (Friday) .

Here is an updated list: http://www.ask4direct.com/custom/kcii

Riverside snow emergency

City of Riverside snow emergency is in effect

Rain is falling

It came a little later than expected, but the freezing rain started falling shortly before 7 p.m.

Resources for the Ice Storm

Carbon Monoxide Fact Sheet

CDC Extreme Cold Situations Guidelines

CDC Guidelines for Emergencies Sudden Power Loss

How to Keep Food and Water Safe

Portable Generators

Latest cancellation list

Here's the latest; the list is also right here


-Washington Schools will dismiss at 1:10

-Highland dismisses at 1
no evening activities

-Keota Schools dismissing at 11:30

-Lone Tree Schools dismissing at 1

-Mt. Pleasant Public Schools dismissing at 12:40

-Sigourney Schools dismissing at 11:30

-WACO Schools dismissing at 1:10

-Wapello Schools dismissing at 1
no evening activities

-Winfield Mount Union Schools dismissing at 1
no evening activities

-Indian Hills Community College closing at noon

-Columbus Schools dismissing at 1:20

-IMS dismissing at 2

-Mid Prairie Schools Dismissing 2 hours early

-Washington Youth Wrestling has been canceled

Community announcements

Washington County cancellations, delays, early outs, and announcements are found at the following page.

Cancellations and Delays

If you have weather related cancellations or announcements, call KCII at 319-653-2113.

Ice Storm Preview

In Touch with Southeast Iowa interview with Weathereye Meteorologist Laura Lockwood on Wednesday, December 17, 2008. Keep in mind this aired on Wednesday.

The storm is expected today (Thursday) afternoon.

Find the interview on the Radio Plus Page on the list on the right side.

See the interview list

Listen to KCII during the Midday Magazine for another "In Touch" for an update from Emergency Management Coordinator Larry Smith.

Ice Storm Preparations

This blog for KCII Radio in Washington, Iowa is revived today in preparation of an ice storm expected this afternoon and evening. KCII News will be posting information here through the evening and Friday if it is necessary.

We used this space during record flooding in June to bringing you any and all relevant information.

This is what the National Weather Service issued this morning about the storm:
A MAJOR WINTER STORM WILL AFFECT THE AREA STARTING THIS AFTERNOON AND CONTINUING INTO FRIDAY MORNING. SIGNIFICANT SNOWFALL AND ICE WILL BE SEEN WITH THIS STORM BY THE TIME IT ENDS. TRAVEL IS EXPECTED TO BECOME EXTREMELY DANGEROUS...IF NOT IMPOSSIBLE...OVER PORTIONS OF FAR NORTHEAST MISSOURI...EASTERN IOWA...AND NORTHWEST ILLINOIS. THE LATEST INDICATIONS SHOW THAT THE STORM MAY PRODUCE MAINLY SNOW
NORTH OF INTERSTATE 80...WITH HEAVIEST ACCUMULATIONS OF SLEET AND FREEZING RAIN LIKELY TO THE SOUTH.

This link has several resources for preparation for severe winter weather:
http://www.crh.noaa.gov/news/display_cmsstory.php?wfo=dvn&storyid=20220&source=0

Videos

Washington County Fair 2008

KCII will post some short videos of a few events this week from the fair. Listen for live updates from the Bid Red Radio, and look for it playing music this at the fairgrounds.


4-H and FFA Livestock Judging contest

Monday, July 14


Washington, Iowa
Washington County Fair

Muscatine volunteers needed

THIS EMAIL IS FROM Tom Brehmer

I've been asked to resend this with additional numbers, as the number in the original notice goes to our office answering machine. Our office, however, is closed for the 4th of July weekend. It was thought more people may be available during the holiday weekend and we might miss some wishing to volunteer. So, if you could please run the following for this weekend, we'd really appreciate it. I'm so sorry for the inconvenience and confusion. Thanks!
----


Volunteers and Information in Muscatine is seeking volunteers to aid in flood recovery efforts for handicapped and elderly flood victims. If you are able-bodied and can help, please call Volunteers and Information in Muscatine at the following numbers:


563-299-2693

563-299-3738

563-299-9676


Tom Brehmer

Vice Chairman, V & I Board Of Directors

Muscatine, Iowa

Contact: 563-260-5486

99 reopens in Oakville

This information from Kathy Vance:

WAPELLO, Iowa- The Louisa County Emergency Management Director announced Highway 99 has been reopened in to the flooded city of Oakville. Residents are being allowed to return to their homes to begin the clean-up. Louisa County Sheriff Curt Braby is warning residents many parts of the city are still under water and to enter at their own risk.

Contractors and other professionals, volunteers and the media have also been cleared to enter the City of Oakville but must receive credentials.

Contractors and other professionals must report to the Louisa County Tax Assessors office located in the County Courthouse at 117 South Main Street in Wapello, Monday-Friday 8am-4:40pm. Contractors and professionals will have to show ID and business license.

Volunteers must report to the Solid Rock Baptist Church located in Wapello at 14041 Locust St.

Fund raising

Polly Prior from Columbus Junction has this information:

T-shirts are for sale to help with flood relief for Columbus Junction and Louisa County.

The CJ Gazette has t-shirts for sale that the money will go into a fund to help Louisa County,the 3 cities of CJ, Wapello, and Oakville.

The business "Simply Soothing" is making t-shirts for sale to help the flood relief in Columbus Junction. They will custom make the shirt with various pictures from the flood. They also have Flood Survival baseball caps.

Farmer's Market relocated in Columbus Junction

This message also from Community Development:

The Columbus Junction farmers market has relocated due to the flood. The market will be held at the American Legion parking lot, 99 2^nd St. Columbus Junction on Fridays from 4:30 to 6:30 pm until further notice. The Columbus Junction market is the only farmers market in Louisa County and is certified by the Iowa Department of Land Stewardship (IDALS) to accept Senior Nutrition Coupons and WIC vouchers. New vendors are always welcome. For more information about the Columbus Junction farmers market please contact Mallory Smith or Nitza Lopez-Castillo, Columbus Junction Community Development Center at 319-728-7971 or cdc@columbusjunctioniowa.org.

Message from Columbus Junction Community Development

This message is from Mallory Smith, Columbus Junction Community Development Director

The flood waters that recently wrecked havoc in Columbus Junction, Iowa left residents and visitors high and dry for places to eat. That is an unusual occurrence for this little town of 1,900 that boasts thirteen restaurants and three bars. The high water closed four of the town's food establishments and left nine more with tables empty, under a boil order while the city's water treatment plant was restored to normal operating conditions. On Saturday morning the boil order was lifted and cooks immediately began chopping, mixing and frying. Customers weren't far behind. People were happy to enjoy again their favorite culinary treats that in Columbus Junction range from huevos rancheros to apple pie.

The flood of 2008 created a small business disaster for this Southeast Iowa community. High water directly or indirectly affected nearly every business in the city, almost all of which are small family-owned enterprises. The easternmost portion of the downtown business district was under water for days. Over two dozen businesses and organizations are now facing the tasks of clean up, repairs or perhaps rebuilding. Businesses above the flooded area felt the effects too due to the boil order and closed highways that left the city inaccessible from the east and north for a week. Fortunately homeowners fared better and less than 10 houses were damaged.

Even now, while water is still being pumped out of the Fairgrounds, the economic recovery effort is underway. Elias Gutierrez, Executive Director for Louisa Development Group, a countywide economic development organization, is heading up efforts to connect business owners with resources such as FEMA, Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). "It's vital to have these businesses up and running again. They provide jobs, pay taxes and contribute a lot to our economy," stated Gutierrez.

City officials are hopeful that the spirit of sandbagging will extend to shopping locally. The city's largest grocery store, Economart, was underwater and is closed. Residents are being encouraged to shop at the three Hispanic markets that carry full product lines including grocery items, produce, meat, dairy, and cleaning supplies. Another option being presented is to make the trip to Wapello, the county seat fifteen minutes away, where Economart's owners have a second location. "It's a very important time to shop locally, to help the economy and show community pride," declares Mallory Smith, Columbus Junction Community Development Director.


# # #

Another roads opens

Louisa County Sheriff's office reports Highway 61 north of Wapello is open.

Roads opening back up

Only this road is listed as closed by the Washington County Secondary Roads Department: Dogwood Ave. at McKains Access northwest of Brighton.

The Public Safety Center also reports Highway 22 near Riverside is open.

Louisa County Extension resources

Louisa County Extension Office has many resources available a their website:
http://www.extension.iastate.edu/louisa

Photos of Columbus Junction

Here are a few more images courtesy of Lyle Moen. These pictures of Columbus Junction were taken June 15.

(Lyle Moen)

(Lyle Moen)

Emergency meetings in Louisa County

Louisa County Extension and the Louisa County Office of Emergency Management will be holding meetings for those displaced by flooding every night at 7 p.m. at the Solid Rock Baptist Church on Locust Street in Wapello.

These informational meetings include updates on road and flood conditions in Louisa County; the latest updates on food, housing and other services; updates on aid and question and answer sessions.

The public is welcome to attend. Meetings will continue nightly until the need is met.

Columbus Junction Boil Order Lifted

The Louisa County Sheriff's Office reports the city of Columbus Junction has lifted the boil order for the city water system. Test results are back and the city water is safe for drinking and personal use.

Highway 92 opens

According to the DOT, Highway 92 at Columbus Junction is now open. Also, Highway 70 north of Columbus Junction is open. Highway 61 north of Wapello is under intense construction and is closed for saftey concerns.

Louisa County Road Update

Louisa County Sheriff's office reports that Highway 61 north of Wapello has considerable damage. crews are working to reopen that section and possibly could have it open again Tuesday or Wednesday.

There had been bicycle traffic allowed on 61 to accommodate commuters, but that has now been restricted again because of work underway.

Highway 92 in Columbus Junction could open again soon depending on a number of factors.

Skunk River / Corallville Photos

More photos from Lyle Moen:

McKains Access

(Lyle Moen)

Skunk River at Brighton

(Lyle Moen)



The Coralville Strip

(Lyle Moen)


The Coralville Strip
(Lyle Moen)

Have pictures of local flooding? Email them news@kciradio.com

Coppock and Wapello photos

Today KCII will post several photos submitted by Lyle Moen, who graciously allowed us to bring them to you. Moen was able to get a ride in an airplane Sunday and document Washington and Louisa Counties' events.

Construction of a new bridge in Coppock was already underway before the floods came through.

(Lyle Moen)


This is Wapello
(Lyle Moen)

Throughout today, more birds-eye view shots will be posted as we upload them.

Family reunion relocated

A family reunion has been relocated. The 86th John A. Rees family reunion that was scheduled for Saturday, June 21 at the Chautauqua Park in Columbus Junction has been relocated to the first shelter at Marr park near Ainsworth at noon Saturday.

John McCain reacts to Columbus Junction visit

Senator John McCain visited Columbus Junction today, and he the guest on KCII's In Touch with Southeast Iowa for a reaction to that visit. Hear the program Friday at 12:50 p.m.

Tyson Foods Paychecks

Tyson Fresh Meats in Columbus Junction will be distributing paychecks at the plant security building between noon and 4 p.m. today (Thursday). Workers must have their work ID with them.

School websites back up and running

Washington School's website is back up. many school were affected because Grant Wood AEA in Cedar Rapids was affected by flooding, and that meant the school websites were offline for a time. they are now back up. Here are some:

http://www.washington.k12.ia.us/

http://ww2.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us/

http://www.highland.k12.ia.us/

McCain coming to Columbus Junction

G.O.P presumptive presidential nominee Senator John McCain is planning a visit to Columbus Junction today. His press office indicates the Senator will be visiting with the mayor and local officials to discuss recent flooding that set record levels. Senator McCain is expected to arrive shortly before noon today

Levee map

Here is a levee map from the Army Corp of Engineers about possible levee problems on the Mississippi. Levee map

Provided by Louisa Extension Office

Riverside and Iowa City photo submissions

Some photos submitted by Michael and Amber McHugh. These were taken the evening of Sunday, June 15.

Do you have photos to submit? Send them to news@kciiradio.com

English River up into the ball fields on W-61 in Riverside

(Michael and Amber McHugh)

Riverside Drive and Hwy 6 in Iowa City(Michael and Amber McHugh)

Iowa River just East of Riverside Casino

(Michael and Amber McHugh)

Bottled water

Columbus Junction and Columbus City must boil their water. Bottled water is available at Columbus School from 3 to 5 p.m. today (Wednesday). Those with larger water containers can have those filled also.

Brighton flooding photos

The Skunk River in Brighton reportedly reached levels higher than in 1993. Here are some photos Andrew Schneider took late last week.

Do you have photos of flooding (especially in Washington, Keokuk, or Louisa County?) Send them to: news@kciiradio.com
Include the photographers name,when it was taken and what exactly it is a picture of.

(Andrew Schneider)

(Andrew Schneider)

(Andrew Schneider)

(Andrew Schneider)

(Andrew Schneider)

(Andrew Schneider)

Some roads re-open

These roads are now open in Washington County, previously closed due to flooding.

* Willow Ave north of 130th Street east of Riverside
* 130th Street east of old 218 southeast of Riverside
* 150th Street near the Johnson-Washington County line southeast of Riverside

Here is the County Secondary Roads Dept list of roads closed.

Reminder: Highway 22 east of Riverside is also still closed.

United Methodist Church "Flood Bucket"

The United Methodist Church in Washington is putting together "flood buckets" with cleaning supplies to give to those affected; it's $45 per bucket. Financial donations to purchase them or items to put in them are accepted.

Here is what they contain.

Drop off donations or call the church 653-5446.

Cause of death verified as drowning

Southeast Iowa flooding claims a life.

An earlier post indicated the Louisa County Sheriff's office found the body of 35 year old Scott McCulley of Grandview after he had been reported missing; he was found Sunday afternoon on a search using boats. Autopsy results are still pending, but Sergeant Josh Helscher believes the cause of death is drowning.

Damage assessment phone numbers

These are numbers to call if you need assistance in Washington and Keokuk with damage assessment from flooding.

Sigourney: 641-622-2528

Washington: 319-653-3015

Flood Relief

This information is from the City of Columbus Junction

To those wishing to make a cash donation please mail them to:

United Fund of Columbus Junction
P.O. Box 263
Columbus Junction, Iowa, 52738

Or you can drop them off to Nitza at the Community Development Center office in the New Civic Center across from City Hall or you can drop your check off at any of the two banks downtown Columbus Junction. Please mark your checks Flood Relief 2008.

National Guard Wedding tomorrow in Columbus Junction

Columbus Junction City Councilor Hal Prior has this announcement:

A day of sunshine after the darkness of record floods. Iowa National Guard Specialist E-4 Curtis Lloyd Wright, 3655 CRC, 1st Detachment and Danielle Ritter will be getting married early Thursday afternoon (Exact time yet to be determined) on the Highway 92 viaduct in Columbus Junction, Iowa overlooking the scenic flood waters of the Iowa River. Both the Bride and Groom are from Macksburg, Iowa. The Groom is currently on deployment in Columbus Junction for Flood duty. The National Guard Chaplin will be performing the ceremony.

Photos of Columbus Junction

Columbus Junction City has collected many pictures of flooding there. this is one of them:




Find more photos documenting Columbus Junctions flood and flood fighting efforts:
http://www.cscolumbus.org/Flood%20photos.htm

Baptist Church needs help

The Red Cross Shelter set up in the Wapello Baptist Church --Solid Rock, 14014 Locust Street needs volunteers to assist people with registering for FEMA online or by telephone. 11:30 to 2 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m....Also people are needed to help serve meals and clean up....Other people are needed at Solid Rock at the information desk or to help organize and stock supply rooms, register new shelter residents. Just answer general questions people might have.

Call and set up a time at 319-523-5320

This information from Kathy Vance at Louisa County ISU Extension

Variety of Columbus Junction info from Kathy Vance

Kathy Vance from the Louisa County Extension Office has this update on Columbus Junction:

>Dr. Wever, Integrity Dental, will be working from Dr. Helscher’s office in Washington for the next 3-4 weeks.

>Dr. Englert has temporarily relocated to the former City Hall in Columbus City.

>Hy-Vee Drug Store is operating out of their Wapello location.

>Columbus Medical Clinic will set up a temporary location at Roundy Elementary starting June 20th.

>The Community Health Center does not yet have a temporary location.


>The sale of prepared foods and beverages is suspended in Columbus Junction until the State Government approves the water system for commercial food preparation. But 92 Roadhouse is open.

News for farmers

Washington County farmers will be eligible to apply for low-interest Emergency Loans.

Producers in Washington and other counties contiguous to the presidential disaster designated counties are eligible for these low-interest Emergency Loans.

SEE DETAILS

FSA Emergency loan funds may be used to:

* Restore or replace essential property;

* Pay all or part of production costs associated with the disaster year;

* Pay essential family living expenses;

* Reorganize the farming operation; and

* Refinance certain debts.

Those in other presidential disaster declared counties may be eligible for the Emergency Conservation Program or ECP.

Help needed for Oakville residents

Robin Dietrich of Winfield is hoping to help out those displaced from Oakville.

Twenty Oakville families she says are staying at trailer court in Wapello, and they need household items:

-cleaning supplies
-toilet paper
-toiletries
-paper towels
-bath towels

Also, they could use two more refrigerators.

Call her at 319-257-6856, or bring items to 405 South Locust in Winfield, and Robin will deliver them.

Donations to National Guard

If donations of food and other supplies made to the National Guard unit stationed at the Washington Armory remain after they finish their duties, it will be given to flood victims . Ann Moore from the 134th family readiness group says that they don't know when that will be, but eventually if there are things left over, they will in turn make that donation to local people affected.

Water in Columbus Junction

Columbus Junction City Clerk Julie Heindel says that drinking water will be passed out again to residents today from 3 to 5 p.m. at Columbus School; they may be on the other side of the school today. Heindel says that residents are also able to bring in their own large containers to be filled.

Eating food from flooded gardens

Below is from Patrick O’Malley, ISU Extension Horticulturist:

If the flooding is from primarily pooled rainwater they should be alright following previously sent precautions. However if it is from river, creek, or other source that may be contain raw sewage such as untreated release from city wastewater plants, septic systems, or livestock facilities, the general recommendation is to avoid using those garden areas for 90 days.

More roads open

Washington County Secondary Roads announces these roads are now open to traffic:

* Locust Street in the city of Coppock
* Nutmeg Ave and Poplar Blvd southeast of Kalona

Want the full list of county roads closed and other road information? County roads website

Blood drive moved due to flooding

Jenny Vinzant, Associate Donor Resource Consultant from Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center has this related announcement:

Columbus Junction is scheduled to host a drive from 1:30 - 6:30 p.m. tomorrow (June 18th) at the Legion Hall. However, the flooding has caused the Legion to be utilized as a sandbagging station and we were left to find an alternate location. The Columbus City Masonic Lodge has graciously allowed MVRBC to use the building in order to continue blood collections.

Drive Specifics:

- Date: Wednesday, June 18th

- Hours: 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

- Location: Columbus City Masonic Lodge - Corner of Columbus and Market Streets - Columbus City, IA 52737

- Goal: 40 units of blood

*As the flood waters have challenged our coordination and planning of this drive, we are relying on walk-in donors to fill our time slots and meet our goal; no need to call to schedule an appointment.

Thanks,

Jenny Vinzant

Associate Donor Resource Consultant

Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center

Solicitation for photos

KCII would like to see your photos from local flooding, especially Louisa, Keokuk, and Washington Counties. E-mail them to news@kciiradio.com; please include the photographer's name, the location, and the date it was taken.

Flooding footage

Video shot of a wide Iowa River Sunday morning east of the Riverside Casino



(Ben Stanton/KCII)

Methodist Church in Washington taking donations

New Creation Church in Cedar Rapids is housing people displaced due to flooding. The Washington United Methodist Church is collecting donations for them.

Here is a message from Pastor Julie Poulsen

I-80 open

Iowa DOT shows I-80 Between Iowa City and the Quad Cities is now open again.

Boat ban lifted

Washington County Sheriff Jerry Dunbar reports the previously enacted "boat ban" on rivers has now been lifted.

State resources

A special website is setup for information from the state about flooding.

http://www.flood2008.iowa.gov/

Message from Mayor Cicalo

This is a portion of a message is from Mayor of Washington, Rick Cicalo.

(Cicalo will also talk about the effort to move Colonial Manor residents to Washington on KCII's Washington Page at 7:30 a.m. and 12:55 p.m. on KCII AM 1380 FM 106.1)


The tragedy of flooding that affects nearby Columbus Junction and Riverside, Coralville, Iowa City and Cedar Rapids if foremost on our minds. Many Washington Citizens have responded by lending assistance. The city of Washington provides potable water. The city’s fire department has connected a hose to nearby Tyson Foods as the facility has water treatment ability to aide Columbus Junction residents and we lent assistance evacuate nursing home residents to a Washington facility by mobilizing Washington County Minibus.

There is much to say about this last weekend, we were working hard, but how do you compare our efforts to those who lose their homes and livelihoods? We do it by working just as hard the next day and the next, to assist, rebuild to see our neighboring communities thriving once again. In that, I wish to thank all of you who have volunteered your time. Mayor Wilson, of Columbus Junction also wanted you to know how much he appreciated your effort. I wish to also note and thank the drivers and staff of W.C. Minibus who were eager to answer the call for assistance.

Mayor Rick Cicalo

Mayor Wilson gives update on KCII

Mayor of Columbus Junction Dan Wilson is set to give an update on KCII radio: AM 1380, FM 106.1 during the noon hour today (Monday).

The program is expected to air at around 12:45 p.m.

Some soldiers moved to Highland School

Many National Guard Soldiers have now moved from the Washington armory near the Walmart to Highland Schools to be stationed.

National Guard soldiers stationed at the Washington Armory are doing well in general for donations of food and supplies. But, Specialist Rhonda Radosevich says that after a long day of flood response work, some soldiers would appreciate recreational donations: footballs, Frisbees, playing cards, etc.

Washington County road update

The following road has re-opened to traffic:

250th Street northeast of Ainsworth

Find the full list of roads remaining closed: county roads website

Also, Highway 22 east of the Riverside Casino is closed (see photo in a previous post).

Death reported in Wapello

Louisa County Sheriff's office reports the body of 35 year old Scott Jarad McCulley of Grandview was found after he had been reported missing; he was found Sunday afternoon on a search using boats. An autopsy is planned for today.

Special program from ISU Extension Wednesday

Iowa State University Extension is holding two more Emergency Crop Production Programs on Wednesday, June 18.

ISU Extension Linn County office will host a program 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the office located at 3279 7th Ave., Suite 140, Marion. The other program will be hosted at the ISU Extension Washington County office, 2223 250 St., Washington, from 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Each program will feature individuals with a wide range of expertise. The topics include:

• Economic Issues including crop insurance government payment issues
• Livestock Issues
• Crop Issues

The program is free and open to the public. Pre-registration is not required.

Contacts :

James Fawcett , Field Specialist, (319) 337-2145, fawcett@iastate.edu

ISU Extension info

This is a list of resources from ISU Extension office.

http://www.extension.iastate.edu/news/2008/jun/071201.htm

Columbus Junction water

Columbus Junction and Columbus City have water after an attempt to connect hoses to the Tyson Foods facility for a supply.

However, a BOIL ORDER is in effect for both cities. Also, bottled water is available at Columbus High School.

Fredonia residents can return

Residents of Fredonia evacuated on Saturday may return today (Monday) at 8 a.m.

Columbus Junction photos

C.J. flooding photos

Highway 92 was lined with a "wall of sand" last Wednesday.

Looking east from the top of the hill

(Kathy Vance)

The record-breaking height of the water was too much on Saturday and the levee broke;
here is the scene Sunday morning.

(Ben Stanton/KCII)

__________________________________________________

Downtown Columbus Junction is dry; National Guard continued work Sunday.

(Ben Stanton/KCII)

__________________________________________________
Have photos of local flooding? Email them to news@kciiradio.com

Riverside photos

Pictures of Riverside flooding Sunday morning


The Riverside VFW

__________________________________________________


The south entrance to Riverside

__________________________________________________


Highway 22; east of the casino, looking east
__________________________________________________
(Photos: Ben Stanton/KCII)

Boat ban - Louisa County

Louisa County Sheriff reports the Iowa and Cedar Rivers are off limits to boat traffic except authorized personnel.

Colonial Manor residents moved to Washington

The Washington Mayor Rick Cicalo says that the Washington County Mini Bus is mobilized to transport residents of Colonial Manor in Columbus Junction to Washington because of flooding.

Water alert

Citizens of Columbus Junction are asked not to use the water. Bottled water is getting handed out at Columbus High School from noon to 6 p.m.

Volunteer dinner tonight (Sunday)

A community volunteer dinner has been scheduled for Sunday, June 15 at 6 p.m. at Roundy Elementary School in Columbus Junction. This dinner is for all volunteers who have worked over the past few days to help Columbus Junction during their flood preparations. No reservation is necessary.

National Guard donations

Along with the items listed in a previous post, the National Guard soldiers stationed in Washington need sunscreen and aloe vera to be donated. The armory is across from the Hy-Vee.

Boat ban update

Public safety is the concern leading to the Washington County Sheriff's Office ordering a ban on any boat operations on the Iowa River, Skunk River, and English Rivers. It says that no one can enter into the areas affected by flooding unless authorized by the officer in charge if the search and rescue or disaster operation.

No unauthorized boats on the English, Skunk, or Iowa Rivers

Columbus Junction levee breaks

ISU Extension in Louisa County reports that the levee in Columbus Junction has broken. Earlier this evening a levee near Oakville also broke.

Mandatory evacuation for Fredonia

Louisa County Sheriff's office reports a mandatory evacuation is in effect for Fredonia.

Reminder: Oakville also has a mandatory evacuation by Monday. (details in a post below)

Donations to Iowa City Red Cross

Donations to Iowa City Red Cross are requested to Shirley at 461-8079.

She is taking a trip up to Iowa City and is looking for:

-bottled water
-diapers
-baby wipes
-formula

Donations still needed at armory

The Washington armory is housing soldiers from the 134th Medical, and other National Guard units from the area. The armory is across from the Washington Hy-vee.

These items are especially needed to be donated; drop them off any time of the day:
-ice (they need plenty)
-personal-sized hand sanitizer
-individual packaged snacks like granola bars (or other "grab and go" snacks)
-water
-Gatorade

Baked goods are not as useful as the items listed above.

Boat ban

Washington County Public Safety Center reports that there is a "boat ban." For safety reasons, no boats except DNR boats are wanted in the Highway 22 area.

Washington road closings update

The Washington County Engineer's Office announces the following roads are closed due to flooding:

* Nutmeg Ave and Poplar Blvd southeast of Kalona
Dogwood Ave at McKains Access northwest of Brighton
* 250th Street northeast of Ainsworth
* Willow Ave north of 130th Street east of Riverside
* Locust Street in the city of Coppock
* 130th Street east of old 218
* 150th Street near the Johnson-Washington County line

Residents encountering flooded roadways should turn around and not attempt to drive through water. Residents may contact the Washington County Sheriff's Office at 319-653-2107 if they encounter additional flooded roadways.

This is the County Secondary roads website for closed roads.

Columbus Junction facing major difficulties

The effort in Columbus Junction may not overcome the rising water. Volunteer Mary Wilson says they are at a turning point. The water is rising faster than they can handle, they are ceasing sandbagging operations.

They no longer want people to use the water in Columbus Junction, although it is not contaminated. Columbus City is having their water shut off.

Some people's homes will likely be abandoned to rising water, some may be seeking shelter. Wilson says that city leaders and officials are meeting to assess the next step.

Paws and More announcement

Paws and More in Washington needs kennels and litter boxes, they are taking in animals displaces by the flooding and you can call them at 653-4796

Hills needs volunteers

Residents of Hills ask for volunteers to help out as water levels rise and cause problems there.

Going to Illinois?

Here are some options the Louisa County Sheriff's office compiled, but keep in mind, river levels continue to rise, this information is subject to change.

Routes to Illinois.

Route to Illinois

Washington County Public Safety Center reports the best bet for getting to Illinois from Washington is going through Burlington.

Louisa County road update

All roads leading north and east of Columbus Junction, Wapello and Oakville are closed. That includes Highway 61, Highway 70 and County Road X-61, (which is Stewart Road), and all other secondary roads.

This situation could last many days and possibly more than a week according to the Louisa County Sheriff.

More bags for Columbus Junction

Washington Mayor Rick Cicalo reports 14,000 sand bags have been freed from a state system; they were stored at the staging base in Washington. They are getting sent to Columbus Junction.

Sheriff's details on evacuation for Oakville

Code Red Alert from the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office states there is a mandatory evacuation of Oakville and surrounding bottoms. This includes areas north of the Hawkeye Dolby Ditch to the Iowa River Bridge West of Oakville. Residents must be evacuated by 8 a.m. Monday (6/16/2008) morning. Officers ask that you place a white piece of paper on the front door to let them know the residence has indeed been evacuated. National Guard are being sent to the area for security. Please remember:

Solid Rock Baptist Church 14041 Locust Street, Wapello, 523-5320

- Will be a local shelter 24/7

- Will be serving 2 meals a day at noon and evening

- They will be serving residents needs through the duration of the flood and until it is

safe for families to return to their homes

- They are setting up mobile shower and laundry facilities

- You may go just for meals or showering even if you do not need to stay at the shelter

- They currently do not need supply support as they are being supported by the Red Cross

Evacuation order given to Oakville

Louisa County Sheriff's Office reports a mandatory evacuation is ordered for Oakville by Monday, June 16.

Volunteers still needed

Columbus Junction reportedly remains very low or out of bags for sandbagging. But volunteers are still needed. Ann Moore from the Washington Chamber of Commerce says they can use help serving meals at the American Legion in Columbus Junction.

The roads between Washington and Columbus Junction remains open.

New record in Columbus Junction

The Iowa River at Columbus Junction has now surpassed the record level set in 1993. The Friday at 1 p.m. observation from the U.S. Geological Survey shows 28.41 feet. The previous record was 28.3. The forecast currently shows the level could reach 33.2 feet by Monday.

In Touch with Southeast Iowa

Here is KCII's update from Emergency Management Coordinator Larry Smith, and from Columbus Junction Mary Wilson gives us the latest: Listen to the interview.

Shuttle for Volunteers

This information is from the Washington Chamber of Commerce:

Riverside Casino & Golf Resort is organizing volunteers to help sandbag in various locations that are in need of assistance. A shuttle will provide transportation to and from the work sites, departing from the casino on:

Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

Depart at 8 a.m. and return at 12:30 p.m.

Depart at 1:00 p.m. and return at 4:30 p.m.

Depart at 5:00 p.m. and return at 9:30 p.m.

· Volunteers need to meet in front of the security desk or at the employee entrance of the casino (East side of the building) before the departure times.

· Please wear boots and gloves, and bring a shovel if you have one.

Bag delivery?

Ann Moore from the Washington Chamber of Commerce reports that the Mayor called asking if anyone traveling to Columbus Junction can bring bags for sandbagging. If so, stop by the Fire station in Washington.

Highway 22 near Riverside closed

Due to flooding, Highway 22 east of Riverside near the casino is closed.

More Washington County roads closing info

Wapello levee breach

Louisa County Sheriff's office reports the levee at Wapello is breached, and is not affecting Wapello city, but surrounding areas.

Items needed for donation

Here are the items needed for the armory in Washington (post is below):

Food donations, fruit, baked goods, cases of water, Gatorade, lemonade, paper plates, cups, napkins, plastic dinnerware. Ziplock bags

Toiletries, (shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, deodorant) as they may be here for several weeks. Some have only packed for a couple of days. Joyce Dickerson says they would gladly accept monetary donations to help with the cost of supplies as well.

Donations needed

The 134th Medical Unit has been activated as well as many other units in Iowa according to Joyce Dickerson, 134th Medical Unit Family Readiness Coordinator. She reports approximately 75 soldiers in excess of our own soldiers staying at the armory in Washington that are from Fairfield and Keokuk units. Dickerson says they have been flooded out of the armory in Iowa City, and are here as a command center. The soldiers are being sent to Columbus Junction, Iowa City or wherever needed.

Anyone who would like to help can email Joyce Dickerson(thedickersons@iowatelecom.net) or donations may be dropped off at the armory across from HyVee at any time.

Washington County added to disaster declaration

Governor Chet Culver has added counties to the proclaimed emergency disaster areas. The full list now includes Washington, Louisa, Jefferson, Henry, Keokuk, and Johnson Counties among others.

Brighton flooding

Brighton City Clerk reports this morning that water is up around at least two houses near the Skunk River...reportedly higher than the '93 flood. Water there is up to around where the river lodge used to be.

River levels continue to rise

Iowa River levels at Columbus Junction are expected to break records and continue rising earlier than previously expected. According to measurements by the U.S. Geological Survey, the previous record of 28.3 feet is expected during the midday hours today. Current projections (10:50 a.m. Friday) show cresting Monday at about 33.2 feet.

What roads are closed?

Highway 22 east of Riverside near the casino is expected to close at noon today according to the Washington County Sheriff.

Here are other Washington County road announcements:
Washington road closings. This link will be updated frequently today (Friday) by Washington County Secondary Roads.

Wapello Levee breach possible

Highway 99 is closed out of Wapello. No traffic is allowed between Wapello and the bluff. Damage to the levee is reported on the north side 99, and a breach is possible at any time morning by the Louisa County Sheriff.

New location for Columbus Junction volunteers

Water is covering parts of the east side of the road in Columbus Junction, and possibly on highway 70 as well. Columbus Junction sand bagging operation has moved to higher ground. They are now at the American Legion. Volunteers are welcome, but those coming from out of town should consider difficulty accessing roads going into the city.

School websites affected

Because of flooding in Cedar Rapids, local school districts like Mid-Prairie and Washington's websites and email services are temporarily down. They will restore those when possible

This is a blog

This is a blog for KCII Washington, Iowa.