Archive for May, 2009

Many people in Washington County were hopeful the state legislature would provide funding to improve secondary roads during the recent session. Ed Raber, with the Washington Economic Development Group, says the governor's bonding plan does provide some money, but not as much as many had hoped.

Washington County Supervisors are talking roads at this week's meeting. They're slated to approve an agreement to provide inspection services for the state department of transportation. They'll also discuss purchasing right of way easements for highways. The supervisors are also expected to give a credit card to the county engineer's office. The meeting begins at 9:30 tomorrow morning in the lower level of the Washington County Courthouse.

Volunteers for the are needed to help the annual Kalona Days Fun Run. Kalona Days Director Dave Finley says they need people to coordinate publicity, mailings and advanced registration. Finley says they are also looking for help with the many activities during the evening of the run. He says without such volunteers, the fun run wouldn't be possible. The 1 or 5-k run is scheduled for June 19. For more information contact Finley at 319-656-3535.

The Kalona Public Library is having story times for kids each Wednesday in May. Youth Services Librarian Marissa Tartaglia says story times help build early childhood literacy skills, through listening, finger plays, rhymes and songs. Themes include jungle animals, Cadecott winners, transportation and aliens. For more information contact Tartaglia at 319-656-3501.

Open government meetings and transparency in policy making are considered crucial to democracy. Yet Iowa's open meeting laws are sometimes unclear, especially in the face of changing technology. Kathleen Richardson is the executive secretary of the Iowa Freedom of Information Council. She says whether or not things like email, online social networking or even phone calls are covered by the law is a murky area. KCII's news team recently participated in an open meetings webinar conducted by Richardson.

The city of Washington’s Planning and Zoning Commission is reviewing the current comprehensive plan at this week’s meeting. They’ll also be taking a look at some recommended changes to ordinances that deal with district maps and annexation. In addition, commissioners will hear a rezoning petition by Wal-Mart. The meeting is this Tuesday evening at 7:00 at the Washington Public Library. Building and Zoning Administrator Jason Geyer says any interested parties and all citizens may appear and be heard.

Washington State Bank is having their fourth annual financial fair this week. WSB Vice President Sue Basten. She’ll be discussing strategies for a volatile market and how the banking industry has changed. Basten will also discuss the Federal Deposit Insurance Company’s transaction guarantee program. To find out more, or register for the seminar visit Washington State Bank’s website. The financial fair is this Tuesday from 2 to 5 pm at the bank.

IMS senior Abbie Miller, daughter of Tony and Diane Miller, will present a combination art show and piano recital in Celebration Hall Saturday evening, May 9th at 7 p.m. The program will feature several two piano works as well as a trio consisting of piano, violin and cello. A special arrangement of the old hymn, Softly and Tenderly, written for strings, tin whistle, piano and vocalist will also be performed. Miller will be assisted by her classmates, friends, and family. The public is invited to this event, art gallery, and the reception which follows.

The annual Kalona Days Fun 1k, 5k run set for June 19 is seeking individuals to help organize this years event. Dave Finley, Kalona Days Director says volunteers are needed to coordinate publicity, mailings, advance registration as well as those who can help with the many activities the evening of the run. He says without volunteers the Fun Run will not be possible. For information please contact Dave Finley, Kalona Days Director (319)656-3535

Funeral services for a fallen Iowa soldier are today, and flags at government buildings will be at half staff in his honor. Staff Sergeant Leroy Webster was killed in action while on patrol in Iraq late last month. Webster is from Hartley, in Northwestern Iowa. Governor Chet Culver’s directive applies to all U-S and state flags. The half staff mandate applies to all state, federal and county buildings. Business and individuals who display the flag are also encouraged to participate as a sign of respect to Webster and his family.