Washington Sheriff Moves to Jail

The Washington County Sheriff's Office has completed their move to the new jail. There was thought they may have had to delay the move a couple of weeks to finish getting systems such as phones set up but in a release yesterday, it was announced the relocation is complete. The sheriff has said he wants to be based at the jail to be able to quickly respond to problems that may come up. The phone number to reach the sheriff's office will remain the same.

Washington Band Stand Renovations

Renovation work on the Washington bandstand on the square could begin in August. City Parks Board Member Don Pfeiffer says that is dependent on the amount of money the board is able raise. He says they have secured a $130,000 grant from the Riverboat Foundation and they'd need to raise around another $170,000. Some of the things they want to do include replacing the tiered stage with a flat stage and improve acoustics. Pfeiffer says they plan to begin fund raising events very soon and hope to have enough before summer starts to be able to begin work in August.

County Supervisor Meeting

Washington County Supervisors will look at quotes for roadway painting at their meeting today. The Washington County Engineer's office will present the quotes to supervisors. They will also consider an equipment purchase to be used on county secondary roads, fill a Brighton Township Trustee position and get a structural report on the English River Bridge. The Supervisors' meeting starts at 9:30am in the basement of the courthouse.

Edible Insect Program At Marr Park

Most Americans don't eat insects but there is program on Saturday talking about the many people around the world that do. According to Marr Park Naturalist Pam Holz the United States and Europe are the only places that don't eat insects. Holz says they are putting on Bug Banquet: Edible Insects, a program that talks about just what the title describes and the nutritional value. It will be Saturday at 1:00 pm at the Conservation Education Center at Marr Park. The cost is $3.

IMS Concert

Come enjoy an afternoon concert of musical talent presented by Iowa Mennonite School students. The concert will be given on Sunday, March 8th at 3:00 p.m. in Celebration Hall at Iowa Mennonite School. This concert is a fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and donations will be accepted at the door. Light refreshments will also be served.

Kalona Days

Kalona is gearing up for Kalona Days, festival director Dave Finley is now accepting applications for food vendors, arts & crafts vendors, as well as groups, organizations and businesses that wish to have a booth or display at this 2 day event. Kalona will celebrate its 130th birthday during the festival with a parade, entertainment, contests, classic car show, dance and games for all ages. Organizers are constructing what may be the largest quilt cake of its kind in America. For information or a vendor application please call the Kalona General Store 319-656-3535.

Low Income Energy Assistance

Alliant Energy is reminding qualified Iowa residents that they can apply for Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds now through April 15. To obtain energy assistance, qualified utility customers can apply for LIHEAP funds until April 15, 2009. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible. For more information on where or how to apply for LIHEAP funds, people can contact their local community action agency or visit www.dcaa.iowa.gov and click on Bureau of Energy Assistance.

New Doctor Coming To Washington

A new doctor is coming to Washington. Washington Hospital and Clinics says Dr. Lloyd Holm is moving here from Omaha. Dr. Holm is an OB/GYN and will practice at Women's Healthcare of Washington. He will replace Dr. Nathan Thomas who is moving to Texas in July. Dr. Holm has been serving as an associate professor at the University of Nebraska and will begin work in Washington in June.

IMS Boys Make State Tournament

The IMS boys basketball team has qualified for trip to the state tournament in Des Moines. Saturday night, IMS beat Prince of Peace out of Clinton 59-51. So now IMS will have to wait to see exactly when and who they will play next Monday. The activities association won't post the pairing until all of the sub-state games are finished. There are still four sub-state games that will be played this evening. Once the finals are in, the state will post pairings which will make it clear when next Monday, IMS will play.

Antler Measuring

Deer hunters interested in having antlers measured should bring them to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Southeast District Office on March 2 or March 4. Donald Pfeiffer with the DNR based in Lake Darling says measuring will be held today from 1 p.m. until 8 p.m. and Wednesday from 1 p.m. until 8 p.m. The Southeast District Office is located in Lake Darling State Park, three miles west of Brighton on State Highway 1 and 78. If you would like to reserve a specific time between 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., please call 319-694-2430 for an appointment. Those not making appointments and others after 5:00 p.m. will be on a first come-first served basis. Allow 20 minutes for each antler set to be measured.

County Offering Historic Preservation Grant

Non-profit groups undertaking historic preservation projects in Washington County could be eligible for a grant from the county. The Washington County Historic Preservation Commission says they've been authorized to distribute $4000 to help with such projects. Projects that are eligible include those that involve securing, maintaining, acquiring, or retaining historic sites, structures, or artifacts that are at least 50 years old and have significance to the county. Grant applications are due March 15th. If you would like more information you can call 653-3879.

Talley's Folly Coming To Washington

The Old Creamery Theater Company is bringing a production of Talley's Folly to the Washington Community Theater in mid March. According to the group Talley's Folly is a charming story about one evening in the courtship of two unlikely lovers. Performances will be March 13th and 14th and March 20th and 21st with start times at 7:30 each evening. For tickets you can call the box office at 653-5175.

Armenian Program at the Kalona Public Library

There will be a program at the Kalona Public Library about Armenia and its culture, songs, music and language. Youth Services Librarian, Marissa Tartaglia says the main goal of Armenia: the Sleeping Beauty is to teach American children about Armenia: culture, language, music and art. The classes will be taught by two foreign exchange students from Armenia, Arevik Torosyan and Armen Sahakyan. This is a 6-week program starting March 7th and ending May 2nd, every Saturday from 10:30am to 12:00pm at the Kalona Public Library.

Midwest Regional Orchestra Festival

Iowa Mennonite School will be hosting the Midwest Regional Orchestra Festival March 20-22. Marcia Miller with the Lower Deer Creek Church says host homes are needed for the approximately 80 students attending from Bethany Christian in Goshen, Indiana and Central Christian in Kidron, Ohio. She says if you are willing to host anyone, or would like further information; please contact Paul Davidson at 319-668-8041. Please let him know by March 9, indicating how many boys or girls you would be able to host. Host families are asked to provide two breakfasts, sack lunch on Saturday, and lunch on Sunday as well as taking the youth to worship with you.

New Doctor Coming to Washington

A new doctor is coming to Washington. Washington Hospital and Clinics says Dr. Lloyd Holm is moving here from Omaha. Dr. Holm is an OB/GYN and will practice at Women's Healthcare of Washington. He will replace Dr. Nathan Thomas who is moving to Texas in July. Dr. Holm has been serving as an associate professor at the University of Nebraska and will begin work in Washington in June. 

Talley's Folly

The Old Creamery Theater Company is brining a production of Talley's Folly to the Washington Community Theater in mid March. According to the group Talley's Folly is a charming story about one evening in the courtship of two unlikely lovers. Performances will be March 13th and 14th and March 20th and 21st with start times at 7:30 each evening. For tickets you can call the box office at 653-5175.

IMS Culinary Arts Class

The IMS Culinary Arts class is opening a student-run restaurant called "Saveurs du Monde" which will run for six weeks featuring a different international cuisine each week. This Wednesday will feature French Cuisine with a menu of Quiche Lorraine, French yogurt, fruit tart, and a croissant for the price of $6.00. Please call the office to make your reservation by Monday. Serving begins promptly at 8:30 a.m. 

Armenia: The Sleeping Beauty

There will be a Program at the Kalona Public Library about Armenia and its interesting culture, songs, music, language, and other fun stuff. Youth Services Librarian, Marissa Tartaglia says the main goal of Armenia: The Sleeping Beauty is to teach American children about Armenia: culture, language, music and art. The classes will be taught by two foreign exchange students from Armenia, Arevik Torosyan and Armen Sahakyan. This is a 6-week program starting March 7th and ending May 2nd, every Saturday from 10:30am to 12:00pm at the Kalona Public Library.

Home Foreclosure

State Representative Larry Marek is backing a plan to prevent foreclosures on Iowa homes. Four proposed bills deal with the subject. One would make it illegal for bankers or brokers to mislead borrowers or make false statements. They also would not be able to charge fees for loans that don't materialize, or accept undisclosed compensation for their service. Another bill would mandate that homeowners are given the number to a foreclosure hotline at the beginning of a foreclosure. Finally the foreclosure on homes of military reserve member or their family while serving on active duty would be prohibited.

Washington School Facilities Consultants

Washington Community Schools is in the process of having their facilities reviewed by a consultant, who intends to provide the district with a recommendation, most importantly the high school. Board President Eric Turner says these two consultants have been working with the Iowa School Boards Association, and have reviewed other districts for the association. He says the Washington board felt their services would be useful, so the consultants are carefully looking at all of the district's facilities as well as past plans presented to voters. Turner says in the end they will provide the board with a concise recommendation concerning buildings in the district.

Kalona Rec Center

The Kalona Rec Center may have received some damage this winter with the snow and melting ice. Todd Fitzsenry the Parks and Recreation Director says there may have been a leak into the building from the roof that has caused some damage to the racquetball courts. Fitzsenry says he has spoken with the Kalona City Council and they are aware of the problem and will be working on getting a builder to look at the building and see what can be done.

Disaster Area Taxes

Special income tax benefits apply to many who were affected by the natural disasters in the Midwest last summer. Phyllis Zalenski, Family Resource Management Specialist with the Iowa State University Extension says even those who did not suffer direct property losses may be eligible for tax benefits. Some counties are eligible for all the tax provisions while others are eligible only for some of the tax benefits. The best thing is for people to consult a tax expert and to always ask questions.

IMS boys move to sub-state

The IMS boys basketball team has made it to sub-state. IMS beat Central City last night 62-51 in the district final game. They next will play Prince of Peace for the right to go to Des Monies and play in the state tournament a week from Monday. Prince of Peace is 19-5 while IMS is 23-1, their only loss was to 3A Keokuk. Tomorrow's sub-state game will be played at Cedar Rapids Prairie and will start at 6:30pm.

Water Shop Open House

The Water Shop in Kalona has been growing and they have decided to show the public what they do. Co-Owner Audrey Miller says they are holding the open house to show their appreciation for the support that they have received from the area community and to give them an opportunity to see the facility and what they have to offer. The open house is Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Home Shopping Extravaganza

If you missed out on saving with the Home Shopping Extravaganza, you'll have another chance but the times will be very different. KCII is returning to the air with our radio auction and items will be starting at 60% off. The auction will be Saturday morning from 7:30-9am, then there will be a break for the Coaches Corner, and then back on the air from 11am-12pm. You can also join us on Monday from 8am-12pm.

National Award To Washington For Blood Drives

The organization, America's Blood Centers is presenting a national award to the City of Washington. Iowa Blood Drives Bi-Monthly Civic Sponsorship Rotation puts on blood drives in the community throughout the year to generate donations for the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center. Yale Jarvis coordinates the drives. He received a letter from America's Blood Centers saying Washington is going to be awarded the 12th Annual National Humanitarian Service Award. The award recognizes a civic group that has encouraged the spirit of volunteering.

Sheriff's Office Move Delayed

The Washington County Sheriff's Office will soon be relocating to the new jail but their moving plans have been delayed slightly. Sheriff Dunbar says they were hoping to be moved out there last week. Dunbar says the person that is helping switch systems, such as the phones, has been ill and if he can't make it out this week, the office may have to wait a couple more weeks for the move. The sheriff says the main purpose for the move is to be able to quickly address problems that may come up at the jail.

New Chamber Director Starting Friday

The Washington Chamber's new director will start on the job Friday. The chamber board announced last week they had hired Tim Coffey. Coffey has been running a fund raising consulting firm in Washington primarily working with non-profit groups. He says as he takes the position he wants to work closely with WEDG and Main Street Washington to market the city in a higher visibility way. He also would like to make the benefits of being a chamber member more visible, with the hope of increasing membership.

Former Keokuk Resident Accused Of Murder In Missouri

Missouri officials have charged a former Keokuk County resident with first degree murder in the death of his roommate who also used to live in Keokuk County. According to Daviess County Sheriff Officials, Carlos Sarmiento is accused of killing Lance Davis. Keokuk County Sheriff Jeff Shipley says both men used to live in Keokuk County about two or three years ago.

Attorney Generals Warns Of Phishing Scams

The Washington Chamber of Commerce has recently circulated a warning issued by the Iowa Attorney General's Office warning of various phishing scams going around the state. Bob Brammer with the Attorney General's Office says these scams primarily involve email or text messages. He says they all are seeking personal information from you such as social security number or credit card number. Brammer says legit companies don't ask for such information in email. He says the only time you should be asked for your credit card number, is if you have gone to a website, selected items to purchase, and are closing out the purchase. Finally Brammer says while many times you may hear of individuals being scammed, small businesses should also be cautious.

Mid Prairie Home School

The Mid-Prairie Home School Supervisors are talking to the state lawmakers about Home School Drivers ed. Superintendent Mark Schneider says he hasnt really studied the issue too much yet. Schneider says he has a lot of faith in the home school department and believes that they would not be going after something if it didn't have merit. Schneider says the home schooling teachers at Mid-Prairie are some of the best he has worked with.

Fruit Tree & Brambles Clinic

Wondering how to get the most out of fruit trees? Keokuk County Extension Education Director Gary Bickmeier says they have a clinic coming up that covers just that. He says the Fruit Tree and Bramble Care and Selection clinic will look at several things including how to properly care for fruit trees. The program will be March 12th at 5:30 at Marie Atwood's across from the Sigourney John Deere. The cost is ten dollars and to register you can call 800-515-2680.

Sextro Contract Renewed

The Washington School Board President says the district's interim superintendent's work and help dealing with the district's budget was key in the board's decision to keep him another year. Board President Eric Turner says he feels many are pleased with Interim Superintendent Dave Sextro's performance in his first year in the district and Turner feels he's brought some trust back to the district. Sextro was hired at the beginning of the school year for one year after Dave Schmitt resigned in August.

Mourning loss of employee

The Riverboat Casino and Golf Resort is mourning the loss of one of their employees. Spokeswoman Sharon Haselhoff says Tina O'Leary of Lone Tree had been a dealer at the casino since they opened and a model employee. Haselhoff says the casino wants to extend their deepest sympathies to family and friends of Tina O'Leary and her tragic loss will be felt throughout the company. O'Leary was the victim of a murder suicide in Lone Tree over the weekend.

Work Release Area at Jail

Washington County Supervisors have approved putting the project to build the work release area of the county jail out to bid. The supervisors have had the item on their agenda the last couple of weeks but wanted to get a few questions answered, primarily if additional work would affect warranties on equipment and systems in the current facility. After receiving a report that it wouldn't be a problem they approved a bid letting for March 24. The work release area and a covered drop off area were in the original plans but the county wanted to get the main facility constructed first and then make sure there was enough money approved by voters for the add-ons.

Demon Basketball

The Washington Demon girls' basketball team saw their season come to an end last night, one game short of the state tournament. Last night in Fairfield, the Keokuk Chiefs beat the Demons 44-36. Demon Head Coach Phil Long says he felt his team left all on the floor and that's what he wanted. It is the furthest the Demons have been in the post season tournament since they last qualified for state in 2002. This was the first Regional Final team Phil Long as taken as head coach and comes in his fourth season.

Mid Prairie Honors Retirees

The Mid Prairie School Board honored the teachers that are retiring at the end of the school year. At the board meeting on Monday, 4 teachers were presented a plaque for their outstanding achievements and years of service to Mid Prairie. Being honored were Special Education teacher Mr. Dalton, who has been with mid prairie for 11 years; Librarian Mrs. Conway, who has been there for 22 years; and Reading Teacher Mrs. Shellady and Band Teacher Mrs. Curtis who have both been with Mid Prairie for 31 years.

Public Library Programs for kids

The Washington Public Library has a few programs coming up for local little ones. Story time for preschool readers will start next Tuesday at 9:30. Wee Read for toddlers with an adult will be Tuesday at 10:30. Also the library will put on Create Your World a creative writing club for writers K-5th grade which begins next Wednesday at 4:00 pm. And for a little older kids, the Scribblers Club, a teen creative writing club for 6th-12th graders begins Monday at 4:00 pm. You can register at the Washington Public Library's front desk.

Story Times

During the month of March, on Wednesdays from 10:30-11:00am in the childrens area of Kalona Public Library, the Youth Services Librarian Marissa Tartaglia will be holding story times for preschoolers. Tartaglia says story times help build early childhood literacy skills through listening, finger plays, rhymes and songs. The story time themes for March are as follows: Dr. Seuss, Leprechauns, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and Fairytales & Knights. Melina Lagios. Also a guest librarian at the Kalona Public Library will conduct the March 18th story time in honor of the 40th Anniversary of Eric Carles, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. For additional information, contact Marissa at 319-656-3501.

Washington Man One Of Two Found Dead In Lone Tree

The body of a Washington man was one of the two bodies found in a Lone Tree home over the weekend. According to the Johnson County Sheriff's office 51 year old Timothy Mellinger of Washington died of a self-inflicted gun shot wound in a murder suicide. The other body discovered was that of 39 year old Tina O'Leary who died of asphyxiation. The Sheriff's office and Iowa DCI say Mellinger and O'Leary were involved in a relationship that ended around Thanksgiving last fall. They suspect Mellinger killed O'Leary and then took his own life.

Highway 22 Road Work

Roadway patching today will reduce Iowa 22 to one lane in the city of Riverside, according the Iowa Department of Transportation. The patching project is set to run from Iowa 1 to U.S. 218 and be completed by late this afternoon. Flaggers will be in place to assist motorists through the work zone.
The Iowa DOT urges motorists to caution in the area, obey flagger instructions and posted signs, reduce distractions and always wear seat belts.

Schmitz Stance On Prevailing Wage

State Senator Becky Schmitz says she supports the idea of state lawmakers passing a prevailing wage bill. Such a bill would require workers on projects funded by state dollars, be paid by the typical wage for the area identified by the state labor department. Schmitz says this practice is used in many cases today when the state uses federal money on projects and will be used when stimulus package money comes to Iowa, so it's not an out of the box proposal. Schmitz said at a weekend town hall meeting in Washington that she'd vote for such a bill. However, Schmitz says since it couldn't pass in the House, it is highly unlikely they'll spend time introducing such a bill in the Senate. Opponents of prevailing wage have expressed concern about being forced to pay a higher wage, could drive up governmental project costs.

County Supervisors

Washington County Supervisors will again consider bidding out the project to build the work release area of the county jail. The area was included in the original plans, but the county held off to make sure there was enough money in what voters approved to build the work release area. Now that they are comfortable there is a enough money they plan to bid the project. However, supervisors have held off approving putting the job out to bid because there have been concerns about how much responsibility the original builder would have and if warranties will be affected if additions are made. The supervisors meet this morning at 9:30.

Teacher In-Service

You probably know how your child spends a teacher in service day, but what about their teacher? One of the ways Washington Community School District has used in-service days this year to implement a standard practice for teachers in the district designed to improve student reading comprehension. District Curriculum Director Veta Thode says some of these include stating what will be covered in the class, writing it on the board, reading to or with students, and giving very detailed explanations not assuming prior knowledge of a subject. Thode says these are non-negotiable practices that apply to all teachers.

Wellman Water Supply

The Wellman water supply is getting a make over. City Administrator Dave Ross says everything seems to be going well in getting the new reverse osmosis system put in. Ross says they are working with H.R. Green Company and getting all the details worked out and they should have a construction date set very soon. Ross says that even though the water bill will rise to pay fore the system it is worth it in the long run, he says the water people will receive is cleaner and healthier than it has ever been.

Demons Girls Basketball Team in Regional Final

In local sports, the Washington Demon girls basketball team will play the Keokuk Chiefs tonight for the right to go to the state tournament next week. The Demons reached the Regional Final round after beating Mount Vernon on Saturday. Tonight's game was originally scheduled to be played at Iowa City Regina, but the state has moved the game to Fairfield, and will start at 8-pm instead of 7-pm. You'll be able to hear the game on KCII we'll be on the air around 7:45 with the pre-game show. You can also listen to the game at www.kciiradio.com .

Kalona Elementary Playground Projec

The Kalona Elementary School Playground Improvement Committee is conducting a Caseys Partnership Card fundraiser from March 2nd to March 27th, Jan Knebel, Playground Improvement Chairperson sa

Marek Votes No Prevailing Wage

A state lawmaker from Washington County ended up being the deciding vote in the house on the prevailing wage bill in. The bill would have required a wage set by the labor department be used on projects involving state money. The wage would be based on the average wage in the area. Representative Larry Marek says he wasn't pressured to vote for it as much as some reports suggest. He says in the end he represents the people in the county and the district and received input from numerous people against it so he voted against it Friday. The bill failed on a 50-50 vote. In addition to the input from constituents, Marek was also concerned the bill would increase the costs of several large projects coming up in the county. Marek made his remarks at a legislative briefing on Saturday in Washington; you can hear that briefing at kciiradio.com

County Budget

The budgeting process is continuing for Washington County Supervisors. Supervisor Wes Rich says going in they decided to give county employees a 3.5% salary increase except for the supervisors themselves. They also asked that departments keep their budgets to around the amount they had this fiscal year and not to go over 1.5%. He says they have not reached a bottom line point yet, they have still been working on budget work sessions, but the process will be coming to a close soon.

Underage Drinking Law

State Lawmakers are considering legislation comparable to Washington's ordinance that makes it illegal to knowingly allow minors to consume alcohol on your property. County Attorney Barb Edmondson says one thing being looked at is altering the state law that makes it illegal to provide alcohol to minors to also make it a crime to knowingly allow minors to consume on your property.

Military Academy Appointments

Congressman Dave Loebsack is looking for area students interested in attending one of the military academies. Representative Loebsack says there is a shortage of mid-level career officers in the armed forces. The only way a student can attend one of the academies is through congressional appointment. You can find information about applying for a nomination at Representative Loebsack's website, www.loebsack.house.gov

Kalona Days

Kalona Days are being prepared. Kalona Days Chairman Dave Finley says the organizational meeting for new and returning committee members is scheduled for tomorrow at 5:00 PM in the Kalona Chamber Building. Finley says this years event will be presented on June 19 20 in the streets of downtown Kalona in celebration of Kalonas 130th birthday.

New Geothermal System

The WACO School District is still getting a new geothermal system installed. Superintendent Greg Ray says the system was supposed to be completed by the New Year. He says the construction process has been hit with many obstacles such as weather. Ray says he has spoken to the school board and informed them that the system should be installed by the end of the year and will be able to activate the system by the beginning of the next school year.

Movie Day

The Kalona Library will be holding a movie night this Thursday. Youth Services Librarian, Marissa Tartaglia says when schools are cancelled or get out early they like to hold activities at the library to give the kids something constructive to do. She says in conjunction with the early-out on Thursday the 26th, the Kalona Public Library will be showing the movie Wall-E from 1:30pm to 3:10pm.

Underage Drinking Law

State Lawmakers are considering legislation, comparable to Washington's ordinance, that makes it illegal to knowingly allow minors to consume alcohol on property. County Attorney Barb Edmondson says one law being looked at is altering the state law that makes it illegal to provide alcohol to minors and to also make it a crime to knowingly allow minors to consume alcohol on property. 

Military Academy Appointments

Congressman Dave Loebsack is looking for area students interested in attending one of the military academies. Representative Loebsack says there is a shortage of mid-level career officers in the armed forces. The only way a student can attend one of the academies is through congressional appointment. You can find information about applying for a nomination at Representative Loebsack's website,www.loebsack.house.gov.

Kalona Days

Kalona Days are continuing preperations. Kalona Days Chairman Dave Finley says the organizational meeting for new and returning committee members is scheduled for Tuesday at 5:00 pm in the Kalona Chamber Building. Finley says this year's event will be June 19 and 20, in the streets of downtown Kalona in celebration of Kalona's 130th birthday.

Movie Night

The Kalona Library will be holding a movie night this Thursday. Youth Services Librarian Marissa Tartaglia says when schools are cancelled or get out early they like to hold activities at the library to give the kids something constructive to do. She says in conjunction with the early-out on Thursday, the 26th, the Kalona Public Library will be showing the movie Wall-E from 1:30pm to 3:10pm.

Legislative Briefing

State Senator Becky Schmitz and Representative Larry Marek are coming to Washington to update residents on issues state lawmakers are working on. The Chamber is putting on the Legislative update which will be in the county courthouse this morning at 10. If you can't make it, you can listen to KCII at 1pm as we will broadcast a recording of the update on the radio and online atwww.kciiradio.com

Parents as Driving Teachers

The Mid Prairie Home School Program is trying to get a bill passed through legislation. Home School Supervising Teacher Andrea Farrier says it looks like they have democratic sponsorship in both the house and the senate for parent-taught driver's education for home schooling families. She says things are not finalized yet but the bills have been submitted to LSA, and she is very hopeful about their potential to get out of the transportation committees and to the floor for debate.

Prevailing Wage

Two Washington County Supervisors went to Des Moines to voice their opposition to the prevailing wage bill. Supervisors Adam Mangold and Wes Rich left yesterday. Mangold says after reading the proposed legislation, his interpretation is that a wage would be set by the state from information they gather from workers around the state, and that would be applied to all projects in which state money is used. Mangold says he feels this will increase the costs of projects to local governments. Mangold says according to Iowa Republican Party officials, they believe State Representative Larry Marek from Riverside will be the deciding vote. Marek said last Saturday he planed to vote against, then this week it is Mangold's understanding he changed his mind. Now after talking to constituents again, Mangold believes Marek will vote against it. 

Stimulus Money for Education

Earlier this week Iowa Congressman Dave Loebsack reported to the Washington School District, they'd get around $500,000 from the stimulus package, but it may not be that simple. Interim Superintendent Dave Sextro says the Iowa Department of Education says that the money will be earmarked for title one education. Sextro says the department is urging districts to sit back and relax until they get final notification on how much will be coming. According to Sextro title one is a program that gives students who struggle with reading and math extra help to bring them up to their grade levels.

Tax Preparation Awareness

As you prepare your taxes this year, there might be a few credits you are able to claim that you might not have known about. ISU Extension Family Resource Management Specialist Mary Wienand says one you want to be aware of is the earned income credit. She says because people's situation may change, such a change may have put them within the requirements to be able to claim the earned income credit which can be worth as much as $4800. She also says some tax payers are unaware there is a $500 credit for childcare on your state taxes. Finally you might be eligible for free tax preparation assistance. You can learn more at www.irs.gov.

Read Across America

Students in Kalona Elementary School will join millions of their peers across the country to celebrate the ninth annual National Education Association's Read across America Day on Monday, March 2. Second Grade Teacher, Kerri Bell says NEA's Read Across America Day, which falls on Dr. Seuss's birthday, expects more than 45 million readers, both young and old, to pick up a book and read. Kalona Elementary Family Literacy Night will be Monday, March 2 from 6-7:00p.m. in the Kalona Elementary Media Center

Wellman House Fire

The investigation into a Wellman house fire has been concluded. The fire seriously damaged a home owned by Tim Hathaway. Wellman Fire Chief Jeff Fair says the home was engulfed in flames before they arrived on the scene. Fair says the home was so badly damaged there was no way to conclude what had started the fire. The home is considered a complete loss. He says the investigation has been closed.

Senator Grassley visits

U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley held a town hall meeting in Washington, and talked a little about congressional efforts to address the economy. Senator Grassley says the government is not wanting to be in the bank investment business, so the hope is banks will buy back the stocks the government has purchased in the next two years. He says the government did something similar with Chrysler about thirty years ago. Yesterday's meeting was part of a bigger series of meetings Grassley is holding to gather input from constituents.

Schmitz Labor

The recent discovery of the activities at the Atalissa turkey processing plant and at the meat packing plant in Postviille, has State Senator Becky Schmitz calling for stronger enforcement. At Atalissa it was discovered mentally disabled men were living in poor conditions and at Postville, child labor laws were being violated. Schmitz says the state needs to address these problems. She says failure to enforce labor protection laws especially those concerning wages, cheats workers, drives down wages and is unfair to those businesses compliant to labor laws.

County Attorney vs. Underage Drinking

Washington County's Attorney was recently at the State Capitol talking about ways Washington has fought underage drinking. Barb Edmondson spoke at a press conference sponsored by Iowa Alliance of Coalitions for Change. It's a youth coalition formed to fight underage drinking. Edmondson describes strategies to reduce underage drinking such as social host ordinance passed both by the City of Washington and the county. She also serves on state and national committees that address juvenile issues such as underage drinking.

Demon Dash for Cash

Washington Community Schools and Bodywrx are putting on a 5K Run/Walk and Mile Run/Walk to raise money for local schools. They are calling Demon Dash for Cash, Teri Hartzler is the chair of the event. She says it will be April 18th at the Washington Junior High. The proceeds go towards the purchase of books for the media centers and libraries for the four schools in the district. Hartzler says there are sponsorship packages available.

Paving Work

Kalona will be getting new paving work done. The Kalona City Council approved moving ahead on paving 10th Street from Highway 22 to the middle school by beginning to bid for design work. One block of F Avenue would also be paved. City Administrator Doug Morgan said the engineers had given the probable cost at $149,000. The street would most likely have 7 inches of concrete at 31 feet in width. He noted the entrance to the school was currently 25 feet wide, so the last block of the paving project would narrow to conform to the school entrance. The City Council agreed that this paving work should be number one priority this year.

Valentine Craft Event

The Kalona Library held a Craft Event on Valentines Day. Youth Services Coordinator
Marissa Tartaglia says on Valentines Day kids came to the library to make different things. Tartaglia says youth have been coming to the library more and more, she says every week it seems that more kids are attending the library and participating in different events such as the craft event and reading groups.

ISU Crawfordsville Research Farm Educational Meeting and Annual Meeting

Everyone is invited to the ISU Crawfordsville Research Farm Educational Meeting. The annual meeting for the SE Iowa Agricultural Research Association will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 5 in the Washington County Extension office in Washington. Gary Bickmeier, the Keokuk County Extension Education Director says after a short business meeting, Kevin Van Dee, farm superintendent for the SE Iowa Research & Demonstration Farm will give an update on research occurring on the farm. Again the event will be 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 5 in the Washington County Extension office in Washington.

Washington Y Director

The Washington Community Y will be looking for a new director. Darren Pickles has accepted a job in the Lancaster metro area in Pennsylvania. He will be the branch director for the Lancaster Y which is opening a new 45,000 square foot facility on 10 acres of land. Pickles says this opportunity just kind of fell on him and it was the toughest decision he's had to make. Pickles last day at the Washington Community Y is March 6th.

Prevailing Wage

One Washington County Supervisor is opposed to the idea of requiring prevailing wage on state funded projects. Supervisor Wes Rich says lawmakers are looking at requiring the area's prevailing wage be used on projects that involve state money. Rich says the requirement of using prevailing wage will likely force projects to cost more which could lead to higher taxes.

Kalona Days

Kalona days aren't far off and they'll need a new committee chair. Dave Finley says because of the lack of support from the chamber he has resigned from the Kalona Days committee. Finley says he thought the chamber would give the committee the money they raised last year to help with this year's Kalona Days, but that doesn't seem to be the case. Finley says they have been invited to a special Kalona Chamber of Commerce meeting to be held in the chamber building, tomorrow morning at eight to discuss the funding of Kalona Days.

All-State Showcase

The Washington High School Speech team is sending three events to Ames to perform at the All-State Speech Festival, and they are asking for your help. The students are heading up Friday and will perform on Saturday. To help with costs for the trip they will be performing for local residents tonight at the high school auditorium. They'll take donations at the door to help with the costs of the trip. The performance starts at 7:30pm.

Kalona Elementary Playground

The Kalona Elementary Playground Improvement Committee is asking the Kalona City Council for help with their project. Kerri Bell says they started raising money to improve the playground at Kalona Elementary in 2006 and they have raised over $86,000. She says they still need to raise up to $250,000 to complete the project.

Flood Rebuilding Seminar

Louisa Count Extension is putting on a seminar geared towards homeowners rebuilding or remodeling after the summer flood. The Flood Rebuilding Seminar is sponsored by Iowa State University and Louisa County Extension. Louisa County Extension Education Director Kathy Vance says the all day seminar will bring together specialists from Iowa State University and Iowa Community College to provide the latest information in their fields. The seminar will be held at the Oakville Community Building in Oakville on Monday, March 2. To register or for more information contact the Louisa County Extension office at 319-523-2371.

$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.