Archive for September, 2009

Bond vote more successful than previous years

Posted: Thursday, September 10th, 2009 at 5:47 am

Even though the Washington School bond measure didn’t pass, it got more support than previous efforts. In 2006, two bond referenda fell short by roughly 20 percent. Then last year another proposal lacked about 12 percent. This time around, it needed nine percent more. It called for borrowing almost $12 million as part the first phase $36-million overhaul of the district’s facilities.

Crop Update

Posted: Thursday, September 10th, 2009 at 5:47 am

Below average rainfall last week combined with low humidity came as welcome news to many Iowa Farmers, especially those in low lying areas on the eastern side of the state. Greg Tahssen , with the U-S-D-A, says disease continues to be a concern. Tahssen says corn and soybean conditions statewide are still in good to excellent conditions, but progress is well behind. Two percent on corn in southeast Iowa is safe from frost, that compares with the five year average of 17 percent.

Disease report: Washington Co. healthy overall

Posted: Thursday, September 10th, 2009 at 5:47 am

The Iowa Department of Public Health released their annual disease report yesterday and Washington County looks pretty healthy. Public Health Director Edie Nebel says most of the reports in the county include isolated cases of food-borne illnesses. Nebel says whenever a case is reported in Washington, an investigation is set up to find out how and where the person got sick. 

Louisa Extension offers smoking cessation

Posted: Thursday, September 10th, 2009 at 5:46 am

The Louisa County Extension Office is offering a free smoking cessation class in October. The Extension’s Kaitlyn Wintermeyer says 83 percent of current smokers in Iowa say they wish they could quit. She says this program will help prevent and deal with cravings. The program October 14 through November 25. To register, call 319-523-2381. 

MSW SWEEP this Saturday

Posted: Thursday, September 10th, 2009 at 5:46 am

Main Street Washington is having a SWEEP, or Support Washington’s Economic Enhancement Projects, event this Saturday. Executive Director Amy Vetter says it’s a celebration to recognize the completion of the sidewalks on East Washington Street. She says there will be a prize given for the most creatively decorated broom. The sweep is being held in conjunction with Washington’s annual Craft Show, which features more than 100 exhibits and vendors from across the Midwest. 

Family 4-H Program

Posted: Thursday, September 10th, 2009 at 5:46 am

The Washington County 4-H program is trying to get more families involved. They’re hosting a session with their volunteers to teach them how to better encourage family involvement in 4-H, as part of the Iowa State University Extension Youth Development training. The statewide goal is to prepare volunteers who work with young people. The Washington session is September 16 at the County Fairgrounds. 

School Bond Issue Fails

Posted: Wednesday, September 9th, 2009 at 6:08 am

Voters in the Washington School District have said no to the first phase of a massive facilities overhaul. 51 % voted for issuing almost $12-million in general obligation bonds during yesterday’s election. The measure required at least 60% to pass. School Board President Eric Turner says their next step is to explore their options. Turner says he felt it was one of the best plans that’s been laid before voters for Washington School facilities. 

Lewis tops Frakes

Posted: Wednesday, September 9th, 2009 at 6:08 am

Another woman is joining the Washington School Board. Voters in district 7 last night elected Sheryl Lewis to the post. Lewis Captured 220 votes, topping her opponent Harold Frakes. He grabbed 149 votes. The two had vied for the seat being vacated by Cathy Rich at the end of this term

Roe Holds off Drown

Posted: Wednesday, September 9th, 2009 at 6:08 am

Washington School Board member Patty Roe will be serving another term. Roe says voters likely chose her because of her experience. Roe captured 244 votes, topping her opponent’s Tsalika Drown who had 142. This will be Roe’s second term on the Board of Education. 

2 incumbents; 1 new comer join M-P Board

Posted: Wednesday, September 9th, 2009 at 6:07 am

The Mid Prairie School Board will soon have a new member. Last night voters elected Stacia Bontrager to the board with 199 votes. The two incumbents, Jack Dillon and Jim Hussey will retain their seats on the board with 215 and 202 votes respectively. The members will all serve three year terms.