Today's Local News

June Fatalities

Posted: Saturday, July 4th, 2009 at 6:18 am

The number of fatal crashes on Iowa highways this year was the lowest in almost three decades. District 13 Trooper Jason Marlow says one possible reason for the decline was an increased police presence on the Hawkeye State’s roads. Marlow hopes motorists will continue to make good decisions. Marlow expects increased traffic throughout this holiday weekend and reminds drivers to be alert, obey the speed limit and never operate a vehicle while impaired.

4th of July

Posted: Saturday, July 4th, 2009 at 6:18 am

There’s a birthday party going on today, and everyone in the U.S. is invited. The country is 233 years old today, and several area communities have celebrations planned. Some kicked off the festivities with fireworks last night, but there’s still some local displays set for tonight. The city of Washington’s are at dusk at the county fairgrounds. Wellman’s will be at 9:35 in the downtown area. Wayland’s are at dusk at the football field. Richland’s are at 9:30 at Alumni Park. Sigourney’s are at dusk at the expo. Shiloh’s fireworks were postponed from last night, they will now be tonight at 9:00. For patriotic music this holiday weekend keep it tuned to KCII.

Kids Day

Posted: Saturday, July 4th, 2009 at 6:17 am

Kids Day at this year’s Washington County Fair will have some south of the border flare. The theme is fiesta fun. The day will feature activities like maraca making, the cactus limbo and the fiesta duck dive. Kids day is July 22 from 9:30 ’till noon at the Washington County Fairgrounds. All kids are welcome to attend, and come and go throughout the morning.

Stay-Cation

Posted: Saturday, July 4th, 2009 at 6:17 am

Lt. Governor Patty Judge is encouraging Iowans to take a stay-cation this year and enjoy the sights and destinations of Iowa. Steve Reif with the Kalona Historical Village says in tough economic times people recognize the importance of tourism in eastern Iowa. He says the Historical Village is one of the top tourist destinations in Iowa, boasting two quilt galleries and a number of historical buildings. Reif says tourism is important to places such as the village because it keeps the culture and heritage of Iowa alive.

Workforce Grant

Posted: Saturday, July 4th, 2009 at 6:16 am

The severe weather that swept through southeast Iowa last year has left a positive note. The Department of Labor recently awarded Iowa Workforce Development over 11-million dollars to create almost 650 temporary jobs to aid in cleanup efforts from last years tornadoes and floods. Senator Tom Harkin says this grant will kill two birds with one stone, rebuilding Iowa communities and creating more jobs for Iowans.

State Patrol on Special Detail

Posted: Friday, July 3rd, 2009 at 6:43 am

AAA expects fewer motorists out on the roads this holiday weekend. However, the Iowa State Patrol will still have an increased presence. Safety education officer Jason Marlow says the nice weather forecast will likely mean a higher volume of traffic. Marlow says they’ll be keeping an eye out for speeders, aggressive drivers, and motorists under the influence. The Iowa State Patrol’s special holiday detail kicked off yesterday (7/2) and runs until Monday (7/5)

Washington Gets a Jump on the 4th

Posted: Friday, July 3rd, 2009 at 6:43 am

Washington residents kicked off 4th of July festivities last night with patriotic music from the municipal band, and blasts from a homemade cannon. Retired Army Artillery Commander Wayne Gamon constructed the cannon. He says it’s in his blood, and was fun to build. The cannon fire accompanied the “Stars and Stripes Forever.” Municipal band conductor Tom Macnimar says their annual “Liberty Concert” just wouldn’t be complete without it The festivities continue this weekend in Washington County. Our website has a listing of Fireworks displays, and stay tuned to KCII for patriotic music this 4th of July weekend.

Walmart Hiring for New Facility

Posted: Friday, July 3rd, 2009 at 6:37 am

Washington’s Walmart is relocating to it’s new facility on the east side of town soon, and looking to make some hires. According to the company’s website, both full and part time positions will be available. There will be openings for cashiers, as well as in the grocery and photo lab departments. The store is also in need of overnight associates temporary setup crews. Those interested can apply at Walmart’s current location, or online at www.walmart.com

IFB on Cap and Trade

Posted: Friday, July 3rd, 2009 at 6:37 am

The Iowa Farm Bureau says the current cap and trade bill moving through Congress could have a devastating impact on Agriculture. IFB national policy advisor Marty Schwager says higher energy prices, would lead to increased production costs. Schwager says the Farm Bureau estimates that if the cap and trade bill passes, U-S farmers will see production costs go up by five-billion dollars by the year 2020. He says they would favor a voluntary, market based way to reduce greenhouse gases.

Fireworks Safety

Posted: Friday, July 3rd, 2009 at 6:37 am

Most types of fireworks are illegal in Iowa, unless part of an organized display with properly trained personnel present. Assistant State Fire Marshal Jeff Quigle says things like sparklers and snakes are legal, but can still pose a safety hazard. He recommends keeping a coffee can, or a can of water nearby so remnants can be disposed of and extinguished properly.