Today's Local News

Keokuk man killed in crash near Coralville

Posted: Monday, August 31st, 2009 at 7:21 am

A Keokuk man was killed yesterday in a single vehicle crash in Johnson County. The Iowa State Patrol says 20 year old Nathan J Bowden was northbound on 380, near Coralville at about 1:00 AM when he crossed the median and smashed into a light pole. Police say the accident remains under investigation.

Cheers and jeers at Loebsack’s town hall meeting

Posted: Monday, August 31st, 2009 at 7:21 am

Eastern Iowa Congressman Dave Loebsack was greeted by a mix of cheers and jeers during a town hall meeting Saturday in Washington. Healthcare reform was at the center of the discussion, and one of the biggest concerns was that legislation currently on the table, would drive private insurers out of business. Those at the meeting in favor of healthcare reform says insurance companies already make life and death decisions for people, and spend too much on overhead costs.

BOS Preview

Posted: Monday, August 31st, 2009 at 7:20 am

Washington County Supervisors are slated to accept the final plat for the English Valley Estates subdivision at this week’s meeting. They’ll also continue discussions on a property tax abatement request. Supervisors are also expected to approve a joint service agreement for the E-911 Service Board. The meeting starts at 9:30 tomorrow morning in the Washington County Courthouse.

Kalona revitalization

Posted: Monday, August 31st, 2009 at 7:20 am

Downtown Kalona may be getting a facelift, depending on how a planning meeting goes tonight (8/31). Chamber board member Laurie Mostek says much of the attention is focused on street resurfacing and water draining issues. Mostek says an Iowa City-based firm will be on hand tonight during the meeting to discuss renovation plans and see what areas residents would like improved. She says community members are encouraged to participate in the meeting.

Moonlight Paddle

Posted: Monday, August 31st, 2009 at 7:19 am

Southeast Iowans will be able to enjoy a canoe ride under the stars this Friday (9/4) at Louisa County Conservations Moonlight Paddle. The groups Katie Hammond says the event will feature a leisurely cruise along the Odessa Wildlife Trail beginning at 9:00 pm. She says the event will run until 11:00 that night, and boats are available to rent for $10- per person for a double canoe and $15 for a kayak. Call 319-523-8381 for more information.

IUB: winterize now

Posted: Monday, August 31st, 2009 at 7:19 am

As summer begins to fade, the Iowa Utilities Board is urging residents to get a jump on winterizing their homes. The IUB’s Rob Hillesland says that includes things like putting plastic over windows, replacing aging insulation and installing more efficient doors and windows. More information about weatherazation is available on the IUB’s website.

Small business loans

Posted: Monday, August 31st, 2009 at 7:15 am

Small business owners can get a hand recovering after certain natural disasters. Iowa State Universitys Small Business Development Center will offer support at no cost to business owners in recovering from floods, fires, and tornadoes. Center Director Jim Heckmann says the program has already assisted over three-thousand disaster victims and 350 companies.

Final Satellite voting and Demon opener

Posted: Friday, August 28th, 2009 at 4:58 am

The Demon Football Team opens the season tonight (8/28), but those in attendance will be able to do more than take in football. Washington County Auditor Bill Fredrick says they will be offering the final satellite polling place ahead of school elections. Tonight’s polls will will be open from 4:30 to 9:00 at Case Field.

M-P Candidates take questions

Posted: Friday, August 28th, 2009 at 4:58 am

Candidates for Mid-Prairie School Board took questions last night during a public forum. Some areas of discussion included the new administration sharing agreement with Keota, the Home School Assistance Program, and the role of a board members. Incumbents Jim Hussey and Jack Dillon, are vying for three at large seats against newcomers Stacia Bontrager and Angi Wilson. To hear highlights from the Mid-Prairie Candidates forum, tune in to In Touch With Southeast Iowa all next week during the KCII Mid Day Magazines.

Loebsack to visit Washington

Posted: Friday, August 28th, 2009 at 4:58 am

Congressman Dave Loebsack is in Washington tomorrow (8/29) for a town hall meeting at the high . One likely discussion topic is healthcare reform. Loebsack has told KCII many of the problems stem from issues with Medicare and other programs. He says while Americas quality of healthcare is one of the best, the problem is making it accessible to everyone. The Loebsack will be speaking at the high school auditorium Saturday morning at 9:30 am.