Today's Local News

How to keep EAB at bay

Posted: Wednesday, June 3rd, 2009 at 5:09 am

The Emerald Ash Borer has devastated tree populations in many Midwestern states, but a local wildlife expert says Iowa has been spared thus far. The Department of Natural Resources' Don Pfeifer says in order to keep it that way, people need to use local firewood. He says the borer lays eggs under the bark of Ash trees and can be transferred to along with firewood. Pfeifer says anyone who has guests coming to the area needs to remind them to get firewood here, and not bring it from places effected by the beetle. 

Fee increases ease scheduling

Posted: Wednesday, June 3rd, 2009 at 5:09 am

Washington County Clerk of Court Julie Johnson says increases in court costs have cleared up a "scheduling nightmare." Johnson says before the hike, her office, and others across the state, were forced to take furlough days, which often backed up court schedules. The state legislature approved the increases this spring.

Two wheeled safety

Posted: Wednesday, June 3rd, 2009 at 5:08 am

Warmer weather means more two-wheeled vehicles on the roads. Washington Police Chief Greg Goodman says bicycles and motorcycles can be more difficult to see than passenger cars. He's urging drivers to use extra caution. Goodman says bikers can do their part to stay safe as well. He says there is no helmet law on the books in Iowa, or Washington. However, he encourages those who ride to wear one to add another level of protection.

PQAPlus training set

Posted: Wednesday, June 3rd, 2009 at 5:08 am

Iowa State Extension offices and the Iowa Pork Center are teaming up to offer Pork Quality Assurance Plus training sessions. In Washington County, swine field specialist Tom Miller is conducting the program. Miller says it's designed to certify safe pork products. He says it covers everything from proper use of medical equipment to humane treatment The Washington P-Q-A Plus session is June 16. It costs $25 and pre-registration is required.

Flood warning continues today

Posted: Tuesday, June 2nd, 2009 at 4:50 am

Portions of Eastern Iowa remain under a flood warning today as heavy rainfall continued in the area yesterday. The National Weather Service says the Iowa River was nearly half a foot above flood stage yesterday, and could rise high enough to effect agricultural land in Johnson and Iowa counties today. Motorists are reminded to never drive through flooded out roadways and bridges.

FEMA videos document flood, tornadoes

Posted: Tuesday, June 2nd, 2009 at 4:50 am

FEMA has complied a video documentary of last year's Iowa natural disasters. Videographer Mike Mancino says the "Triumph over Tragedy" series captures the recovery efforts in areas hit by flooding and tornadoes last year. They include such efforts in Iowa City, Muscatine and Cedar Rapids. They also feature first responders and a one year anniversary slide show. The videos can be viewed at FEMA's website.

Riverside could get new trails

Posted: Tuesday, June 2nd, 2009 at 4:49 am

The city of Riverside may be getting some brand new trails. At their Community Visioning meeting last week, representatives from various development organizations discussed the possibility of adding a trail that connects Riverside with Vine Avenue north of Highway 22. This trail would also link up with the Riverside Casino just east of town. Enthusiasm for the proposal was high from the various attending organizations, which included such groups as Trees Forever, the Iowa DOT, and city representatives.

Washington Park Board

Posted: Tuesday, June 2nd, 2009 at 4:49 am

Washington Park Board members will be discussing a new sound system for the Central Park Bandstand at tonight's (6/2) meeting. They'll also continue talks on whether the city's aquatic center should be renamed after former YMCA swim coach Milo Steele. Also on the docket is a progress report on construction at Water Tower Park. The meeting starts 6:30 this evening in Washington City Hall.

Wellman City Council

Posted: Tuesday, June 2nd, 2009 at 4:49 am

Council members, as well interested members of the general public, met for the Wellman City Council meeting yesterday (6/1). One of the highlights of the meeting was a proposition to enter into a contract agreement for law enforcement with Washington County for the 2009-10 fiscal year. Other topics included the sheriffs report, approval of the agenda, Aprils financial statement, and an approval to close a city road. The meeting was held yesterday at the Wellman Municipal Building.

Iowa’s housing market still positive

Posted: Tuesday, June 2nd, 2009 at 4:49 am

With news of big bailouts, corporate reorganizations, and layoffs all over the country, its hard to find a light at the end of the economic tunnel. But Steve Olson with West Chester Savings Bank says the housing loan situation in Iowa is quite positive. He says a recent 8-thousand dollar tax credit as well as low mortgage rates makes now an ideal time for first-time buyers to start looking to buy a home. He says both of these factors make Iowa unique from the rest of the nation when it comes to finding a loan.