$500,000 to Washington Schools

The national stimulus bill President Obama signed yesterday should be sending extra money to Washington schools. U.S. Representative Dave Loebsack of Iowa visited Washington school district yesterday and reported the district would receive an estimated $500,000. He says the district can use the money as it sees fit.

New Chamber Director

The Washington Chamber of Commerce has named a new director. The board has hired Tim Coffey as their new executive director. Coffey moved to Washington in 2001 from Mason City and opened Coffey and Associates, which is a fund raising consulting business. Chamber Board President Sue Basten says Coffey brings an incredible amount of non-profit experience and will bring a new type of energy and enthusiasm to the chamber. Coffey replaces Susan Wellington who left to become the executive director of Lending Hands Adult Day Care.

City Council Meeting

The Washington City Council has a public hearing tonight on allowing the city to guarantee the repayment of capital loans using property taxes. City Administrator Dave Plyman says they are looking at issuing $3.5 million in bond notes for a project. This tells the investor that the city guarantees the note will be repaid and if needed, the city will levy property taxes to repay the loan. The hearing will be part of the council's meeting tonight at seven at the Washington Public Library.

Recycling Center

A reduction in the value of materials collected at the county recycling center is causing the Supervisors to have to commit more money to its operation. Washington County Supervisors took action yesterday to allocate $28,0000 provided the city also funds the recycling center at that level. The $28,000 is up from $16,000 this fiscal year. Supervisor Jim Rosein told fellow supervisors the reason for the increase is the value of the recycled materials has declined.

Kalona City Council

The Kalona Historical Village is very thankful to the city council. The Kalona Historical Village Executive Director Steve Reif was present at the city council meeting on Monday to stand before the council and attendees to express the villages heartfelt thanks. The city council approved the villages request to help with funds to help pay some expenses.

Improv night at Kalona Library

Improv night is coming to the Kalona Library. Youth Services Librarian Marissa Tartaglia says there will be around six or seven teens that will be putting on a show for the public. She says the show will be like the TV show Whose Line is it Anyway. Tartaglia says the Teen Advisory Group will be the participants and it will be Monday at 6:45pm in the Kalona Library.

Riverside City Council

The Riverside City Council is looking at projects coming up within the next year. City Clerk Tina Thomas says the City Engineer spoke to the city council on Monday about going to bid for work on a commercial road in Riverside. Thomas also says the council set a date for a public hearing on the 2009-2010 budget estimate. The date for the public hearing will be on March 9th at 6pm.

$500,000 to Washington Schools
The national stimulus bill President Obama signed yesterday should be sending extra money to Washington schools. U.S. Representative Dave Loebsack of Iowa visited Washington school district yesterday and reported the district would receive an estimated $500,000. He says the district can use the money as it sees fit.

New Chamber Director
The Washington Chamber of Commerce has named a new director. The board has hired Tim Coffey as their new executive director. Coffey moved to Washington in 2001 from Mason City and opened Coffey and Associates, which is a fund raising consulting business. Chamber Board President Sue Basten says Coffey brings an incredible amount of non-profit experience and will bring a new type of energy and enthusiasm to the chamber. Coffey replaces Susan Wellington who left to become the executive director of Lending Hands Adult Day Care.

City Council Meeting
The Washington City Council has a public hearing tonight on allowing the city to guarantee the repayment of capital loans using property taxes. City Administrator Dave Plyman says they are looking at issuing $3.5 million in bond notes for a project. This tells the investor that the city guarantees the note will be repaid and if needed, the city will levy property taxes to repay the loan. The hearing will be part of the council's meeting tonight at seven at the Washington Public Library.

Recycling Center
A reduction in the value of materials collected at the county recycling center is causing the Supervisors to have to commit more money to its operation. Washington County Supervisors took action yesterday to allocate $28,0000 provided the city also funds the recycling center at that level. The $28,000 is up from $16,000 this fiscal year. Supervisor Jim Rosein told fellow supervisors the reason for the increase is the value of the recycled materials has declined.

Kalona City Council
The Kalona Historical Village is very thankful to the city council. The Kalona Historical Village Executive Director Steve Reif was present at the city council meeting on Monday to stand before the council and attendees to express the villages heartfelt thanks. The city council approved the villages request to help with funds to help pay some expenses.

Improv night at Kalona Library
Improv night is coming to the Kalona Library. Youth Services Librarian Marissa Tartaglia says there will be around six or seven teens that will be putting on a show for the public. She says the show will be like the TV show Whose Line is it Anyway. Tartaglia says the Teen Advisory Group will be the participants and it will be Monday at 6:45pm in the Kalona Library.

Riverside City Council
The Riverside City Council is looking at projects coming up within the next year. City Clerk Tina Thomas says the City Engineer spoke to the city council on Monday about going to bid for work on a commercial road in Riverside. Thomas also says the council set a date for a public hearing on the 2009-2010 budget estimate. The date for the public hearing will be on March 9th at 6pm.

Washington Page
7:30 a.m. & 12:55 p.m. Sue Basten, Washington Chamber of Commerce Board President Hiring a new chamber director
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

In Touch With Southeast Iowa
12:50 p.m. Wes Rich, Washington County Supervisor
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

News Photo Archive

U-S Representative Loebsack's visit

Iowa U-S Representative Dave Loebsack is visiting the Washington Community School District today. Interim Superintendent Dave Sextro says Congressman Loebsack will be in the district's central office from 10:00-11:30am. Sextro says Loebsack wants to discuss green schools and green construction. Loebsack is also interested in hearing from juniors or seniors wanting appointments to one of the military academies. Sextro says the public is welcome to attend Loebsack's visit.

Wellman fire under investigation

The investigation into a Wellman house fire continues. Friday evening's fire seriously damaged a home owned by Tim Hathaway. The fire fighters determined there was no one inside the house during the blaze, and there were no injuries as a result of the fire. The Washington County Safety Center says the Fire Marshall and the Wellman Fire Department are looking into the cause.

Washington County Supervisors

Washington County Supervisors will vote on going out to bid for the project to build the work release area of the county jail. The Supervisors meet at 9:30 this morning. The project at the jail was not included in the original construction because the county wanted to make sure they didn't go over the $5-million approved by voters. Supervisors will also discuss their funding level for the county recycling center. Finally they'll act on a board appointment to the land use and planning commission.

Law Enforcement Increase

The Washington County Board of Supervisors approved a 3 1/2 % increase in the amount cities in the county will pay the Sheriff's Office for contract law enforcement. Sheriff Dunbar says the cost of law enforcement to Kalona rose from just under $69,000 to just over $70,000. Sheriff Dunbar says the majority of the money goes to deputy salaries.

Unemployment Meeting

Workers unemployed because of the summer flood or current economic climate, can learn about services out there that can help. The Kirkwood Dislocated Worker Program is putting on an informative meeting tomorrow at the Washington County Fairgrounds in the new building. Attendees can find out what assistance is out there including some special assistance for those out of work because of the flood last summer. The meeting starts 9:00 am tomorrow morning.

Box Tops for Education

You can donate money using scissors. Stuart Media Specialist Kathleen Kishel says you can look on your cereal boxes or other items around the house for the Box Tops for Education labels from General Mills items. Kishel says they can be sent in and redeemed for ten cents for each label. Kishel says last October they sent in a batch and got a check in December for $900s. Kishel says she uses the money to replace worn books in Stewart's library. Just send your labels to the school with a student or drop them off.

Farm Bill Program

The Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 contains a wide variety of legislation affecting everything from school lunches to milk checks. Keokuk County Extension Education Director Gary Bickmeier says new payment rules basically attribute USDA commodity payments to individual taxpayers, regardless of the number and nature of farm business they are involved in. An informative meeting on the Farm Bill Program for Keokuk County will be held February 26th beginning at 6:00 pm at the Expo Fairgrounds in Sigourney. Registration is not required but is encouraged in case of weather cancellations. For registration or further information contact the Keokuk County Extension Office at 641-622-2680.

Mid Prairie Bomb Threat

The Mid Prairie High school received of a bomb threat last week. Sheriff Dunbar says it has been determined the threat was false. He says the investigation is still on going. He says the main deputy in charge of the investigation is located at the school. Dunbar says they are talking to people and is certain that the person or persons responsible will be held accountable

Young Professionals Day at Capitol

Washington young professionals, you are invited to take a day and see the state government at work. You're invited to Young Professionals Day at the Capitol. Young Professionals of Iowa Board Member Adam Mangold says it's a great chance to see what goes on in state government, seeing both houses in session and talking with state lawmakers from the area. Young Professionals Day at the Capitol is February 23rd. If you are interested you can contact Mangold at 653-2421.

US Census

With 2010 just around the corner, the U.S. Census Bureau is preparing to do that head count they do every ten years. Darrel Hysler works in the Cedar Rapids Office and says they are mandated by the Constitution every ten years to count the U.S. population. Hysler says they are currently hiring local workers to help with the process. He says the jobs pay between $11.75 and $15 an hour and have flexible hours which is good for someone out of work and looking around. If you are interested call 866-861-2010. 

Government Offices Closed Today

Local government offices are closed today for the President's Day holiday. The county courthouse and county offices will not be open. Also Washington city offices will be closed and the Post Office will be closed. They will reopen tomorrow. 

Kalona City Council

The Kalona City Council will be holding their meeting tonight. Carri Bell, representative from the Kalona Elementary will be there to give an update on the Kalona Elementary Playground Project. Also Parks & Recreation Superintendent Todd Fitzsenry will be giving a proposal for upcoming improvements in the park. The Kalona City Council meeting will be held at the Kalona Public Library meeting room tonight at 7:30.

Riverside City Council

The City of Riverside will be holding their city council meeting tonight. Carol Riggan will speak to the council about a figure 8 event for Trek Fest. The council will be discussing the hotel/motel tax yearly set aside amount and a resolution which is a salute to hospitalized veterans. The council will meet at 6:30 PM at the City Hall. 

Home Shopping Extravaganza

KCII's Home Shopping Extravaganza kicks off tomorrow. The three day radio auction allows listeners to call in and purchase gift certificates that are good for items or dollars amounts at many local businesses, at a reduced price. There are also certificates available for businesses across Iowa. The auction begins tomorrow, Wednesday and Thursday at 10-am which is three hours earlier than past years.

On demand Audio

Washington Page
7:30 a.m. & 12:55 p.m. Joe Nichols, GM of KCII - Home Shopping Extravaganza
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

In Touch With Southeast Iowa 
12:50 p.m. Adam Mangold, Young Professionals of Iowa - YP Day at Capitol
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

News Photo Archive

Boy Scout Supper

Warm up with a Boy Scout soup supper this evening. Troop 235 has their annual soup supper at St. Mary's Parish Center in Riverside from 4:30-7:30pm. The cost is $6 and children 5 and under get in free. They'll have all you can eat soups, veggies, cheese, and crackers, desserts, and drinks. Carry out is available. 

U.S Census Bureau

With 2010 just around the corner, the U.S. Census Bureau is preparing to do that head count they do every ten years. Darrel Hysler works in the Cedar Rapids Office and says they are mandated by the Constitution every ten years to count the U.S. population. Hysler says they are currently hiring local workers to help with the process. He says the jobs pay between $11.75 and $15 an hour and have flexible hours which are good for someone out of work and looking around. If you are interested call 866-861-2010. 

Kalona City Council

The Kalona City Council will be holding their meeting tomorrow. Carri Bell, Representative from the Kalona Elementary will be present to give an update on the Kalona Elementary Playground Project. Also at the meeting Todd Fitzsenry, Parks & Recreation Superintendent, will be giving a proposal for upcoming improvements in park. The Kalona City Council will be held at the Kalona Public Library meeting room tomorrow at 7:30pm.

Mid Prairie Schools

The Mid Prairie School District will be holding school tomorrow. Normally Presidents Day is a day off for students but Superintendent Mark Schneider says with the numerous cancelled days during the winter they are making up days. He says making up days now will prevent them from having to push back the last day of school too far into summer.

Wellman Fire

The Washington County Public Safety Center received a 911 call yesterday around 6:50pm for a house fire in Wellman. No one was inside the residence. The Washington County Public Safety Center says the home sustained considerable damage and the fire is still under investigation. The fire was at 1756 120th St in Wellman. Wellman Fire department, Kalona Fire Department, Washington County Sheriff and Washington County secondary roads were called to the scene as well as Eastern Iowa Light & Power along with the Red Cross.

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Government Offices Closed

Local government offices will be closed Monday for the President's Day holiday. The county courthouse and county offices will not be open. Also Washington city offices will be closed and the Post Office will be closed. They will reopen Tuesday.

Senator Becky Schmitz

State Senator Becky Schmitz says the primary focus so far this session has been on dealing with the current economic climate and it's impact on state government. Schmitz says she knows the deepening national recession puts a strain on the budgets of Iowa middle-class families. She says that's why she is wanting to hear constituent suggestions for balancing the state budget without raising taxes. Schmitz asks that comments be sent to becky.schmitz@legis.state.ia.us.

Mid Prairie Snow Day

The Mid Prairie School District is making up snow days. Superintendent Mark Schneider says Monday was normally scheduled to be a day off for students for Presidents Day but with the many cancellations that the snow has caused they will be holding school to make up for those cancelled days. Schneider says it will be a normal school day with school starting and stopping at regular hours. He says making up the snow days through the year helps to keep the last day of school from getting pushed back too far.

Hunter education courses

Hunter education courses will be offered in Washington in just a little over a week. The DNR puts on the class. Anyone born after 1972 has to have a hunter education certificate when they purchase a license. The seven session class will be at Washington Junior High February 24th, 25th, and 26th and March 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th. Class will be from 3:30-5pm each day. Participants should be at least twelve years old. Registration forms will be available at Washington Junior High and are due February 23rd. You can call Jim Cuddeback for more information at 319-653-4789.

Singing Valentines

The Metro Mix Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is taking orders now to sing for your special someone. Abby Dodd with the group says arriving unannounced, a quartet will search out the recipient in an office, home, restaurant, school or almost any setting. Reservations for singing valentines can be made by calling 319-361-8509

Valentines Day Cards

The Kalona Post office has seen an increase in Valentines Day cards being sent out. Post Master Gae Walton says this year she has seen more people sending and receiving Valentines Day Cards. Walton says she believes that it is due to the economy that people are just sending cards to show there love and affection rather than sending out bigger bulkier gifts.

Crawfordsville Lions Supper

Have breakfast for supper and help a good cause. The Crawfordsville Lions are having their pancake, sausage, and egg supper this evening from 4-7pm at the WACO Elementary School in Crawfordsville. Tickets for adults are six dollars at the door and tickets for kids 12 and under are three dollars and preschoolers are free. Half of the proceeds benefit Jenna Waters.

School Stimulus

It appears the removal of the school construction item in the economic stimulus package Congress has been working on, has a direct impact on Washington. Iowa U-S Representative Dave Loebsack plans to visit the Washington School District at ten o'clock Tuesday morning. Interim Superintendent Dave Sextro says his understanding is that Loebsack was going to discuss the spending of around $800,000 the district was going to get as part of the package, but that was removed. Sextro says Loebsack still plans to visit and discuss green schools and green construction.

Keota School board looking for a change

The Keota School Board is talking about a change in superintendents. Board President Jared Lyle says they have been talking to different school districts about sharing a superintendent and last week met with the Mid Prairie board president and vice president about the possibility of sharing a superintendent starting with the 2009-10 school year. Mid Prairie Superintendent Mark Schneider says this is strictly a discussion item at this time. Schneider says this will be on the agenda for the next board meeting on Monday, February 23rd.

Paws and More Micro-chipping

Paws and More is encouraging you this Valentine's Day to keep your pet close to your heart with a micro-chipping event. A micro-chip with your contact information is implanted just under the skin around the neck of your pet and can be scanned to retrieve contact information. The micro-chipping is being offered for $25, which is a reduced rate. You can stop by Paws and More behind Casey's today, tomorrow, or Sunday between noon and four. No appointment is needed.

Speech All-State

The Washington High School Speech Team is sending three events to the All-State Speech Festival in Ames a week from Saturday. Speech Coach Jan Gallagher says you have to score high at a state competition to be invited. She says they received all-state recognition before but have never been invited to perform at the festival. Gallagher says they are going to put on a performance for residents next Thursday at 7:30pm in the high school auditorium to raise money for the trip.

IMS Singing Valentines

IMS Students are selling singing valentines on Saturday. Kristen Brenneman with IMS says the students travel around the area such as Wellman, Washington, Iowa City, and other communities, singing valentines to people. She says they have been doing this for over 5 years. For those interested you can call IMS at 319-656-2073 and speak with Mary Lou. The cost to sing to a single person is $35 and to sing to a group of people is $65. They'll be singing from 8am to 4pm.

County Engineer Award

The Washington County Engineers' office has received recognition from the Iowa Concrete Paving Association for a recent project. County Engineer Dave Patterson says it was for an overlay project they this past summer on old Highway 218 north of Highway 22. Patterson says they replaced a deteriorating asphalt road with a nice concrete overlay. He says they were also able to add paved shoulders. He says a team reviewing projects around the state deemed it the Best Concrete Overlay Award.

Keokuk County Salt supply

Keokuk County salt supplies are looking fine. Keokuk County Supervisor Ernie Griener says they were prepared this year. According to Greiner the Keokuk County Highway department had over 700 tons of salt ready. Griener says they should have plenty for the rest of the season.

On Demand Audio

Washington Page
7:30 a.m. & 12:55 p.m. Mary Wienand, ISU Extension
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

In Touch With Southeast Iowa
12:50 p.m. Darrel Hysler, US Census Bureau
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

News Photo Archive

School Budget Cuts

The Washington Schools Interim Superintendent is advising the board cut $612,000 from the budget. The recommendation comes after the district went $63,000 over it's spending authority last fiscal year and in the midst of anticipated cuts coming from the state. Interim Superintendent Dave Sextro says going in they wanted to stay away from cutting teachers that had direct student contact. The district will have six early retirements at the end of this school year, under this proposal those positions would either not be filled or the anticipated salary would be lower. Also the custodial staff would be reduced and some services contracted out. Sextro has asked the board to act on the recommendation at their March board meeting.

Parent/Teacher Conferences

Washington High School is hosting parent/teacher conferences this evening. The conferences will be held in the varsity gym. Parents can pick up their student's schedule and mid-term grade cards at the door. Parents are encouraged to visit with each teacher. The parent/teacher conferences will be from 4:30-8pm this evening in the high school gymnasium.

Washington County Riverboat Foundation Grants

Washington County Riverboat Foundation has posted application for their spring grants. Executive Director Jim Logan says they anticipate a large number of applications judging from their past experience. He urges first time applicants to refer to their website for guidelines as to what they are looking for and the actual application. He says they can only award grants to truly non-profit groups or governmental bodies. Applications will be due April 10th.

Work Release

Washington County intends to seek bids for work to complete the area of the jail that will house their work release program. The area was in the original design plans but the county held off including it in the actual construction because they wanted to make sure they were within the $5 million approved by voters. Sheriff Dunbar says the program allows inmates to serve jail time but leave during the day to go to work. Those inmates pay $50 a day in cash up front to be apart of the program and are checked up on during the day.

Mid Prairie Drama Performance

Mid-Prairie drama students are just back state competition and will be putting on a performance for the public. Mid Prairie Drama Director Tamara McClintock says she felt they did very well at the competition and they have decided to put on a show free for the public. McClintock says the production is tonight at 7pm at Mid Prairie High School.

Washington County Empowerment Board

The Washington County Empowerment Board is having their meeting Thursday, February 26th from 4:30-6:00pm at the Kalona Library. Washington County Empowerment Coordinator Tasha Beghtol, says empowerment is a statewide initiative that provides local funding for programs to benefit families with children as old as five. Again their meeting is on Thursday, February 26th from 4:30-6:00pm at the Kalona Library.

Keokuk Board of Supervisors

The Keokuk Board of Supervisors are looking at the budget for the next fiscal year. Supervisor Ernie Griener says the board spoke with Sheriff Jeff Shipley and the Keokuk County Highway Department about their budgets for the 2010 fiscal year. The board also spoke with County Recorder Melissa Bird and a S.T.I representative about remote access technology to improve services of the county offices.

On Demand Audio

Washington Page
7:30 a.m. & 12:55 p.m. Pastor Bob Wallenberg
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

In Touch With Southeast Iowa
12:50 p.m.
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

News Photo Archive

County Salaries

Washington County Supervisors have approved the Compensation Board's recommendation for county elected officials for next fiscal year. The recommendation leaves the supervisor salaries unchanged at just over $33,000. The other officials would get a 3 1/2 % increase. The increase applies to the County Attorney, Auditor, Recorder, Treasurer, and Sheriff. That would take effect July first.

County Road Solutions

How to keep county gravel roads in good shape? That was the focus of a recent public work session requested by local members of the Iowa Farm Bureau. County Engineer Dave Patterson says one of the big issues is higher traffic, but the county is not seeing a rise in funds coming in. Patterson says in talking with area residents some suggest ways of generating more funds such as implementing impact fees for new developments or different types of registration fees for vehicles or a secondary road assessment district.

School Board Meeting

The Washington School board will receive a recommendation on budget cuts at their meeting tonight. Interim Superintendent Dave Sextro says the board will receive an update on the Governor's latest budget cuts. Sextro says he will present his expenditure reduction recommendation to the board for the consideration. The board will also act on a contract that would have Sextro stay on as interim superintendent for one more year. The meeting is tonight at 7pm.

Paws and More in Kalona

More area residents will have the option of contributing a dollar a month to Paws and More through their water bill. This is an opt in program that already exist for Washington water users. Angie Talbot with Paws and More says she went to the Kalona, Wellman and Riverside city councils and asked if they could establish a similar program in those cities. The three councils approved the request and residents will now have an option to make the donation to Paws and More.

Kiwanis Spaghetti Dinner

The Washington AM'ers Kiwanis Club is putting on their 7th Annual Spaghetti and Meatball Dinner and Ice Cream Social tonight. The all you can eat event costs $8 in advance and $9 at the door for adults and $5 in advance and $6 at the door for children. It will be at the Washington Junior High from 4pm to 7pm tonight. The money from the event goes to fund AM'ers Kiwanis projects such as Secret Santa.

Columbus Junction Council

The Columbus Junction City Council is looking at the purchase of a flood pump. City Clerk Julie Heindel says the council will discuss the purchase. The pump would take water that overflows from the river and pumps it back in. She says the council is considering the purchase after last summer's flood. The council will discuss the idea at their meeting tonight at 5:30 in the new Civic Center/City Hall.

Kalona Sewer Project

Work is continuing on the Kalona sewer project. City Administrator Doug Morgan says it's coming along smoothly. Morgan says the cold winter weather has not disrupted any work. C.L Carroll Company is doing the work and Morgan says the project is expected to be complete by the late summer.

Washington Page
7:30 a.m. & 12:55 p.m. Dr. Bill Tweeton, Kiwanis AMers Spaghetti Dinner
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

In Touch With Southeast Iowa 
12:50 p.m. 
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

News Photo Archive

Tuesday, February 10 - Washington County News

Washington County Supervisors
Washington County Supervisors will hear a recommendation on what county elected officials should make next fiscal year. The Compensation Board will provide their recommendation to the board at todays meeting. Also the board will re-look at reconfiguring their meeting room to better accommodate the board's expansion to five supervisors. Finally they'll consider final approval for the completion for an area that will house the county jail's work release program. The meeting begins tomorrow morning at 9:30.

Senator Chuck Grassley Town Hall Meetings
Senator Chuck Grassley will be holding town hall meetings in 24 counties next week. Senator Grassley says he has met with Iowans in every county, every year that he has represented Iowa in the United States Senate. He says its this exchange of ideas that gives him greater insight directly from Iowans that he can take to Washington D.C. Grassley will be in Louisa County on Wednesday, February 18th at the Wapello Ambulance Building. The next day he'll be at Washington County Hospital and Clinics, in the Robert Nicola Conference Room, in Washington from 7:15 8:15 a.m.

Pork Farmer Award
A Washington County pork producer has been awarded a prestigious award within the state's pork industry. Rob Stout is among this year's recipients of the Master Pork Producer Award. Stout was presented with a brass belt buckle at the 37th annual Iowa Pork Congress Banquet in Des Moines. He is part owner of Wellman Feeder Pig Inc. and has received three Pork Quality Assurance Level three certification status and his farm is registered with the National Animal Identification System.

Washington Public Health Website
Washington County Public Health and Home Care has a new site. The new site went online today. Director Edie Nebel says you can find a lot of information about their services, a calendar for upcoming vaccination clinics, and links to national websites such as the CDC. Nebel says the hope in developing the new site was to have something that was both easy to navigate around and update. Their web sit is www.washph.com.

Kalona Days
Kalona Days preparation is getting underway. Dave Finley and his wife Susan are the Co-Directors for Kalona Days again this year. Dave Finley says this years theme is Celebrating Our Heritage. He says it is in honor of Kalonas 130th birthday. Finley says there are a lot of things to do before the big day.

Washington Speech and Drama
Washington High School had several students get high marks at a weekend state speech and drama competition. Jan Gallagher is one of the coaches and says they competed in Pella, at one of four state competitions going on in Iowa on Saturday. They had nine events and eight of them received division 1 ratings, which is the best you can get. Seven of those groups got division one ratings from all of their judges.

Purple Martin Workshop
The 4th annual Purple Martin Workshop will be March 28th. Jim Walters says the Workshop will have a variety of speakers talking about the birds and there will also be different activities. Walters says the 4th Annual Purple Martin Workshop will be at the CAM Iowa Clothing Center at 1005 Nutmeg Ave near Kalona. There is a $2.00 admission and children under 10 are free. Lunch will also be available. For information, contact Jim Walters at 319-466-1134.

Washington Page
7:30 a.m. & 12:55 p.m. Shelia Hanson, PAWS and More Animal Shelter
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

In Touch With Southeast Iowa
12:50 p.m. County Engineer David Paterson, County Roads
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

News Photo Archive

Monday, February 9 - Washington County News

Smoking Ban
Last year state lawmakers passed a ban on smoking in public places, but that might be adjusted. State Representative Larry Marek from Riverside says the ban applied to places such as restaurants and bars. House File 211 would allow for these places to designate an opened air section such as a patio for smoking. He stresses it would not change things inside. Marek says many have signed on to House File 211.

County Roads
County roads and the future of those roads will be the focus of a work session tonight. County Engineer David Patterson says this is an opportunity to talk about the condition of county roads. He says the hope is to discuss solutions for addressing problems such as funding to keep them in good condition to dealing with higher traffic among other things. The work session will be at 7 tonight at the Washington County Fair Building.

Mid Prairie School Board
The Mid prairie School board will be meeting on Thursday, February 12th. Superintendent Mark Schneider says they will be discussing the Special Education Program plan and report and the Gifted & Talented Program. Schneider says at the meeting the board will be going over the 2009-10 School Calendar. He says the board will be focusing on finance by looking at possible summer infrastructure projects

Sweetheart Supper
The Washington Community Y is putting on their annual Sweetheart Supper on Friday. The evening will include entertainment for you and your valentine and on the menu will be rib-eye steak, cheesy potatoes, veggies, salad and a brownie desert served with cherry nut ice cream. The cost is $8 per person and you can make reservation by calling 653-5300. Reservations should be made by Wednesday so they know how many steaks will be needed.

Good Sense Budget course
The Lower Deer Creek Church in Kalona is holding a budget course on February 15th. Jim Hershberger says the course is to help people understand and put together a budget and to help meet financial goals. Hershberger says it is a 3 week course and the class is for anyone even if they are not affiliated with the church. Again the class starts on Sunday, February 15th. Anyone who is interested can call the church office.

Pipeline awareness and education meeting
Alliant Energy and the Iowa Pipeline Association offers pipeline awareness and education meetings for emergency responders. Representatives from the Iowa Pipeline Association and pipeline regulatory consultants will provide information on pipeline safety, hazard awareness, and characteristics of the products/materials transported through pipelines. A portion of the training will include two new tabletop exercises. The program will be Tuesday, February 24th at the Keokuk County Community Center in Hedrick. To register, visit www.iowa-piepline.com. All programs will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Weed Class
The Washington County Extension will be site of a weed, insect, and pesticide class for commercial pesticide applicators. Nancy Adrian with Washington County Extension says the course is needed as part of a pesticide applicators licensing. It will be on Wednesday from 9 to 11:45 am at the Washington County Extension office.

Washington Page
7:30 a.m. & 12:55 p.m. Fran Stigers, Washington Community Y
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

In Touch With Southeast Iowa
12:50 p.m.
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

News Photo Archive

Sunday, February 8 - Washington County News

Bee Keeper Courses
Calling all interested bee keepers. There is a class coming to the Kirkwood Washington Center later this month for beginning bee keepers. Andrew Joseph works for the State of Iowa and says the four week course starts February 17th, and the next three Tuesdays after that. The cost is thirty-nine dollars for the class and twenty-five for the manual. You can register by calling Kirkwood Washington Center at 653-4655.

Smoking Ban
Last year state lawmakers passed a ban on smoking in public places, but that might be adjusted. State Representative Larry Marek from Riverside says the ban applied to places such as restaurants and bars. House File 211 would allow for these places to designate an opened air section such as a patio for smoking. He stresses it would not change things inside. Marek says many have signed on to House File 211. 

Speech Team 
The Washington High School Speech Team competed at the state speech contest on Saturday and fared very well. Of the 9 groups that competed, 8 received Division I ratings. The students now have a chance to make the All-State competition in Ames on February 21st. The coaches are Jan Gallagher, Lynn Loula, and Amy Adrian.

Budget Course
The Lower Deer creek Church in Kalona is holding a budget course on February 15th. Jim Hershberger says the course is to help people understand and put together a budget and to help meet financial goals. He says it is a three week course. Hershberger says the class is for anyone even if they are not affiliated with the church. Again the class starts on Sunday, February 15th. Anyone who is interested can call the church office.

Pancake Supper
The Kalona Optimists club is preparing for there fundraising events in March. Doug Morgan says they are having a pancake supper on March 5th. He says the funds raised will go to help the youth of Kalona. Morgan says the event will be held at Kalona Middle School.

News Photo Archive

Saturday, February 7-Washington County News

State Budget Cuts
State lawmakers are preparing to cut the state's budget. State Representative Larry Mareck from Riverside says Iowa is looking at around a 6% cut across the board. He says we are in better shape than some other state around us but that doesn't make it any better. Merick says one thing they can do to turn things around is take steps to make Iowa more attractive to new industries.

Tax Refund Loans
Tax season is nearly here and as you prepare an area state lawmaker warns about the temptation of refund loans. State Senator Becky Schmitz says it maybe tempting to borrow on your refund and pay the loan off when your refund check arrives, but she says in many cases the interest is excessive considering it's backed by your tax return. Schmitz says these loans might have been more reasonable in the past but with e-file the time to process your return is much faster.

Kalona Tourism
Some business owners in Kalona feel that the economy has not affected Kalona tourism very much. Edie Kemp owner of the Carriage House Bed & Breakfast says the people around Kalona do what they want to do when they want to do it. She says she has not seen a big down turn in tourism. Kemp says when it comes to people doing things with their family, people will do what it takes to take care them.

Prospective Student Day
IMS is having a Prospective Student Day. Larry Swartzendruber says the day is for students in 8th grade that may wish to attend IMS to come out and visit the campus and meet teachers and students. He says it gives students a chance to see students life and what is taught in the classrooms. The event is Friday, February 13. Swartzendrubber says they hold the Prospective Student Day every year but are contemplating holing it more often to increase exposure to IMS.

Ainsworth Breakfast Buffet
The Ainsworth Opera House is putting on their first fund raiser of the New Year this morning. They have a breakfast buffet going on from 7-10am. They are serving biscuits and gravy, bacon, sausage, hash browns, scrambled eggs, breakfast casseroles, fresh fruit, pancakes, rolls, coffee cake, and more plus coffee, juice and milk. The cost is seven dollars for adults and children ten and under are free. That again is going on at the Ainsworth Opera House from 7-10 this morning.

Bee Keeping Class
Calling all interested bee keepers. There is a class coming to the Kirkwood Washington Center later this month for beginning bee keepers. Andrew Joseph works for the State of Iowa and says the four week course starts February 17th, and the next three Tuesdays after that. The cost is $39 for the class and $25 for the manual. You can register by calling Kirkwood Washington Center at 653-4655.

4-H Skate Party
The Washington County 4-H County Council held a countywide 4-H Skating Party on Sunday, January 25, at the Wellman Rec. Center. Kati Peiffer, the 4-H-Youth Coordinator says 211 4-Hers, family members, and friends took advantage of the fun by roller-skating. She says the skaters had time to free skate, as well as do the limbo and racing games. The Skating Party is one of the many countywide activities held for 4-Hers throughout the year.

Friday, February 6 - Washington County News

City Council approves soil work contract
The Washington City Council approves a contract to have services done by Geo-Technical engineering services for the proposed Wastewater treatment facility. TEAM Services will do that work. City Administrator Dave Plyman says that this company did similar work for the library project that includes soil borings.

Schmitz want Iowa to be a wind energy leader
The State Senator that covers Washington County says that renewable energy is a strong part of the Iowa economy. Becky Schmitz says she wants to see Iowa as a leader in renewable energy. Schmitz has some listening posts scheduled in Washington County. Today in Wellman at City Hall at 9:30, Kalona Public Library at 10:45, and in Riverside at Murphy's at noon.

IMS Fine Arts
The IMS Fine Art series ended last weekend. Mary Lou Gingrich with IMS says she feels the Series has been a success. She says that through out the fall and winter they had close to a packed house for every event. Gingrich says the series goes through the fall and winter and the spring and fall is when they have school productions.

Master Gardeners plan sale
The Washington County Master Gardeners set the date for their spring plant sale. According to Nancy Adrian From the extension office, the group will do that May 16. The group met last week and had a program from Carolyn Schmidt about a botanical garden in Cape Town, South Africa. Schmidt's daughter is a missionary in Cape Town and they visited her last year. The next meeting will be on February 24 at 6:30 p.m. at the Extension Office.

Sound of Washington
A new group in Washington is a special needs choir. Kim Eckler is one of the founders of Sound of Washington and says the idea started because someone she knew is nearly bed ridden, and enjoyed singing. Eckler says they wanted to be able to provide a way to get out in the community and sing. The group meets Tuesdays at 6 at the Washington Mennonite Church.

American Legion Riders
The American Legion Riders in Washington plan a fund raiser next week. Barb Duder from that group says that on Valentines Day, they have a soup supper at the National Guard Armory in Washington. Duder says that the riders are cooking a variety of soup February 14 from 4:30 to 7:30, again at the National Guard Armory.

Pathway School fundraiser
Pathway Schools is holding an auction to raise money for a scholarship. Edie Kemp says there will be many items on the auction. Its Friday, February 20 from 4 to 8 p.m.

Columbus Junction salt supply
The Columbus Junction area was running very low on salt when winter arrived. City Clerk Julie Heindel says during the first part of winter their supplier was not sending any of the salt they needed. Throughout the winter they have been getting salt from a variety of places so they could keep the streets.

Washington Page
7:30 a.m. & 12:55 p.m. Kim Eckler, Sound of Washington
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

In Touch With Southeast Iowa
12:50 p.m. Larry Marek, State Representative
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

Friday, February 6 - Washington County News

City Council approves soil work contract
The Washington City Council approves a contract to have Geo-Technical engineering services for the proposed Wastewater treatment facility. TEAM Services will do that work. City Administrator Dave Plyman says that this company did similar work for the library project that includes soil borings.

Schmitz want Iowa to be a wind energy leader
The State Senator that covers Washington County says that renewable energy is a strong part of the Iowa economy. Becky Schmitz says she wants to see Iowa as a leader in renewable energy. Schmitz has some listening posts scheduled in Washington County. Today in Wellman at City Hall at 9:30, Kalona Public Library at 10:45, and in Riverside at Murphy's at noon.

IMS Fine Arts
The IMS Fine Art series ended last weekend. Mary Lou Gingrich with IMS says she feels the Series has been a success. She says that through out the fall and winter they had close to a packed house for every event. Gingrich says the series goes through the fall and winter and the spring and fall is when they have school productions.

Master Gardeners plan sale
The Washington County Master Gardeners set the date for their spring plant sale. According to Nancy Adrian From the extension office, the group will do that May 16. The group met last week and had a program from Carolyn Schmidt about a botanical garden in Cape Town, South Africa. Schmidt's daughter is a missionary in Cape Town and they visited her last year. The next meeting will be on February 24 at 6:30 p.m. at the Extension Office.

Sound of Washington
A new group in Washington is a special needs choir. Kim Eckler is one of the founders of Sound of Washington and says the idea started because someone she knew is nearly bed ridden, and enjoyed singing. Eckler says they wanted to be able to provide a way to get out in the community and sing. The group meets Tuesdays at 6 at the Washington Mennonite Church.

American Legion Riders
The American Legion Riders in Washington plan a fund raiser next week. Barb Duder from that group says that on Valentines Day, they have a soup supper at the National Guard Armory in Washington. Duder says that the riders are cooking a variety of soup February 14 from 4:30 to 7:30, again at the National Guard Armory.

Pathway School fundraiser
Pathway Schools is holding an auction to raise money for a scholarship. Edie Kemp says there will be many items on the auction. Its Friday, February 20 from 4 to 8 p.m.

Columbus Junction salt supply
The Columbus Junction area was running very low on salt when winter arrived. City Clerk Julie Heindel says during the first part of winter their supplier was not sending any of the salt they needed. Throughout the winter they have been getting salt from a variety of places so they could keep the streets.

Washington Page
7:30 a.m. & 12:55 p.m. Kim Eckler, Sound of Washington
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

In Touch With Southeast Iowa
12:50 p.m. Larry Marek, State Representative
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

News 2-5-08

Drainage solution proposed 
The Washington City Council hopes that a plan to install a new system of pipes in the north side of the city will help prevent problems with drainage. The City Council set a public hearing about a relief sewer project. City Administrator Dave Plyman says that they are looking at a way to get the water that's pumped out of basements to go to storm sewers. The public hearing is set for next week on Wednesday at 6 p.m. at City Hall. 

City Council hears trails proposal 
Washington City Council hears a proposal for a trails signage to connect the Kewash trail to downtown. Councilor Bob Shepherd told the council money they are required to pay from a penalty from the DNR could fund it, and this proposal would have signs and a route established. Shepherd says the five thousand dollars wont fully cover the project, but some other funds may be available. 

Movie canceled because of school schedule 
A movie day in Kalona has been canceled. Todd Fitzsenry says because the Mid-Prairie school district is planning to have school on their normally scheduled day off, they had to cancel that on Presidents Day.

Home School Department 
The Mid-Prairie Home School department is looking for changes to state legislation. Andrea Farrier a supervising teacher with the Mid-Prairie Home School says she went to Des Moines to speak with legislators last week. She says she is trying to get them to introduce a new bill to allow parents of home schooled students to teach drivers ed. 

Keokuk Extension meeting 
A Field Agronomist will discuss problems and solutions to fertilization decisions just prior to the Private Pesticide Training. February 18, the Keokuk County Extension office scheduled two sessions, one beginning at 1 p.m. and the other beginning at 6:30 p.m.. The Private Pesticide Training begins at 1:30 and 7 pm. Both sessions will be held at the Expo Grounds in Sigourney.

Emergency Management meeting 
The Washington County Emergency Management Commission gets together next week. They plan to talk about an update to a grant, purchase of equipment and certification of their budget. Emergency Management Coordinator Larry Smith has said that their budget looks roughly the same as the past, but there might be less money available for grants. The commission meets Feb 11 at 7 p.m. at the courthouse

High School blood drive
Washington High School students plan the annual blood drive in March, and they are ready to take appointments. Its on Wednesday, March 11 in the Washington High School gym from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. To schedule an appointment contact Erik Buchholz at 653-2143 or Ryan Bell at ryanbell09@hotmail.com. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Extension office summer trip 
The Southeast Iowa Extension offices are planning a trip to Kansas City, Missouri. It's June 17 to 18. According to the Washington County Extension Office, some highlights of the trip are a visit to The Money Museum, and a tour of the Kansas Speedway. Organizers plan a formal dinner theater and a visit to Science City and Cabelas.

Wednesday, February 4 - Washington County News

Increased fees for Law Enforcement
The Washington County Supervisors increased fees for contract law enforcement services. The board used a formula to determine how much to charge each city that does not have a police department and that pays for law enforcement from the sheriff's office. A chart showing the figures shows most cities had an increase to their payments except Crawfordville which went down 7 percent. Sheriff Dunbar says paying employees is the main factor for increases. Kalona is up 19 percent to about 70 thousand dollars. Other cities include Riverside with a 24 percent increase, and Wellman with a 16 percent increase

Zoning Commission public hearing
The Washington County Zoning Commission is done with another public hearing. Secretary Jacob Thorius says that about half of the fifty residents that showed up on Monday had input to offer the commission. Thorius says that some people don't want zoning, others do, but many believe something needs to be done to direct future growth.

Mid-Prairie making up classes
The Mid-Prairie school district is using days off for class. Superintendent Mark Schneider says they have already held class on a normally scheduled day off on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Schneider says they will be holding class on President’s Day February 16, which is normally a day off.

Riverboat Foundation opening
The Washington County Riverboat Foundation is taking applications to fill a director position. Jim Logan is the Executive Secretary and says that they are looking for someone to represent the rural area of Washington County. The seat was left empty when Larry Marek became State Representative and stepped down to avoid conflict of interest. Applications are available online at http://www.washingtoncountyriverboatfoundation.org

City Council addressing drainage
The Washington City Council is addressing an issue with drainage on the north side of the city. City officials say the area around Highland Avenue is poorly draining, and the council assigned a committee to talk with residents and offer some possible solutions. That issue is on the agenda tonight for the council, they could set a public hearing on a relief sewer.

Grasshorse plans move
A Winfield company is moving to Mount Pleasant. Vivan Jennings with Grasshorse Technologies says they are an emerging animation business that focuses on animated content for entertainment organizations. Jennings says they have been located in Winfield for about a year and half but they needed a bigger location due to growth.

Community Center works around construction
The Washington Central Park Community Center has been getting around the construction on the south side of the square. Work on the new library began in the spring, and that's right next door to the community center. Max Cousins says people are still able to get there. Listen to the Washington Page today for more from Max Cousins about what is coming up for the center.

Wapello Rural Water seeks input
The Wapello Rural Water Association is holding a survey to see who might like rural water brought to their property. Kathy Alex says they are getting some funding from rural development and they need to see how many people would like the water service so they know how much to budget. The area they are looking at is south of English River and north of Crooked Creek and east of Highway 1 and west of 218. The number to call for information is 1-800-906-8388.

Washington Page
7:30 a.m. & 12:55 p.m. – Max Cousins, Central Park Community Center
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

In Touch With Southeast Iowa
12:50 p.m. – Jim Logan, Washington County Riverboat Foundation
Listen to the interview on the Radio Plus page.

News Photo Archive

Wednesday, February 4 - Local Sports

Demon Wrestling
The Demon wrestlers were at Montezuma last night for what was scheduled to be a triangular with Montezuma and Sigourney-Keota, but BGM also showed up so they got three duals in. The Demons beat BGM 46-30 and Montezuma 54-27 and lost to Sigourney-Keota 49-21. Demon Head Coach Brent Van Weelden says some of the wrestlers that did well include Parker Turner at 130, he went 3-0 on the night. He says quaite a few wrestlers were wrestling up last night so they wouldn't have open weights. Clint Stout was at 145 and he went 2-1, Chris Graf was at 160 and he went 2-1, Tyler Jaspering was 3-0, and at 285 Tyler McDonald was 2-1, he lost to McLaughlin from Sigourney-Keota 4-1. Van Weelden says this closes out their dual seasons and it was big to get the two wins, because that means the Demons end their dual season with a winning record at 9-8, which was a goal of theirs. The Demons wrestle at Sectionals on Saturday at Mediapolis where they will face Columbus, Fairfield, Louisa-Muscatine, Mediapolis, and West Burlington.

Mid-Prairie beat Trojans
The Mid Prairie boys basketball team used a first half run to get up on Fairfield and won by 17 points. The Trojans scored the game's first basket to go up 2-0 but Mid Prairie went on an 18-0 run and led 22-10 at halftime. The Golden Hawks got up 32-15 towards the end of the third and won 46-29. They did it by really spreading the ball around. Abe Kos was the Golden Hawks leading scorer with 10 points, Tanner Miller had 9 and Ryan Gent had 8. Quite a few had 2 points. Dillon Gilpin was Fairfield's leading scorer with 6.


Other area games
WACO boys basketball team beat Mediapolis last night 57-45. Nathan Shelman scored 18 points and Tad Morrow had 17.


Mepo girls beat WACO 44-30. It was a two point game going into the fourth. For WACO Ashley Brooks had 10 points.


Girls

Louisa-Muscatine 41 Highland 31

Pekin 42 Lone Tree 38


Boys

Wapello 64 Winfield-Mount Union 60

Radio Classifieds-Wednesday, Feb 24th

FOR SALE

-1976 Ford Granada for parts/scrap metal. non running. $300 obo.
319-530-1925

FOR SALE
-6 pure lab puppies for sale, they were born 12-28-08.
3 black females
2 yellow females
1 black male
$125 each
319-656-2968 after 4 pm

FOR SALE
-Dark brown lift chair-like new-$700
319-658-2916

FOR SALE
-2006 Chrysler Sebring Convertible limited-$14,500
-Men’s Diamond ring 1/4 carrot-$450 OBO
319-461-6920

FOR SALE
-Office chair on rollers-like new
319-653-6440

FOR SALE
-Shiba Inu Dog (purebred, no papers) for sale. 2 1/2 years old and spayed. She gets along well with cats and kids. Crate, toys and food included. Would love a tall fenced in yard to run in! Asking $150
Michele 319-653-4397

FOR SALE
-2005 KTM 250 2 stroke-$1800
319-461-3588

FOR SALE
-1995 Cougar XR7-fule line needs replaced-$800 OBO cash
319-936-3956

FOR SALE
-4440 John Deere tractor with without a loader
-John Deere 1460 disc mow co
-Large round bales of hay
319-257-6764

FOR SALE
-Murray Snow Blower-5 hp-$350
-Sofa, chair and ottoman-$75
in Keota
319-430-0796

FOR SALE
-Cedar computer desk-$50 OBO
319-471-6004

FOR SALE
-Cannon PC311 coping machine
319-653-6440

FOR SALE
-Hypertech Computer Programmer for a 1999 GMC-$100
319-548-2666

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

WANTED
-A brand new baby kitten, just weened or ready to be weened.
319-257-6642 Rhonda or Duane

WANTED
-Looking to rent a home or townhouse in Kalona or Richmond area.
319-656-3535

WANTED
-Topper for 2003 full sized F-150
319-698-2245

WANTED
-Tractor chains for 12.4 x 28 tires
319-461-0367

WANTED
-Sports Trading Cards
-US Postage Stamps
-Wrist & Pocket Watches
319-471-8989

WANTED
-4 bedroom house in Washington area that allows a small dog
319-548-1049

WANTED
-1984-1988 FORD BRONCO FOR PARTS
641-233-0130

WANTED
-Used or new walkie talkies
319-461-4797

WANTED
-Truck rims for Dayton wheels for 11-22.5 tires
319-530-6696

WANTED
-Dog cage for in the house for a medium sized dog
319-430-3180

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

GIVE AWAY
-4 year old female cat, spayed, declawed. Very friendly and good with kids.
319-523-2038

GIVE AWAY
-Young very colorful roosters-1 year old
319-257-6764

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

MOVING SALE
-Moving Sale
319-698-2245

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

FOR RENT
-2 bedroom upstairs apartment-$375/month
319-461-0489

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.


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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.