Today's Local News

Summer reading

Posted: Monday, June 1st, 2009 at 4:15 am

With so many activities taking place this summer, the Kalona Public Library reminds you that one of the best activities is simply reading a book. Their Summer Reading program will be starting up June 9 and the theme this year is Be Creative. Marissa Tartaglia with the library says the program will also incorporate music and art activities. She says the program has events and activities for all ages from kindergarten to teens. Information on the Be Creative Summer Reading Program can be found at 319-656-3501.

Washington Co Historical Society Launches website

Posted: Sunday, May 31st, 2009 at 4:15 am

Washington County’s Historical Society is launching a website. Board member Terry Oneill says they decided to put some of their content online so tourists can plan a trip through Washington County’s historical landmarks. Oneill says there’s no real centralized archive of historical information about Washington County. He’s hoping this website will change that. The site can be visited at www.washingtoncountyhistoricalsociety-iowa.org

Jefferson Co. Board of Supervisors

Posted: Sunday, May 31st, 2009 at 4:14 am

The Jefferson County Board of Supervisors will be holding an open meeting on tomorrow. The meeting will be held in the first floor meeting room of the Jefferson County Courthouse in Fairfield. Items on the tentative agenda include a meeting with the county engineer and attorney, discussion of a fireworks permit, and consideration of a disposal system contract. There will be an opportunity for comments from the public.

Kalona City Council

Posted: Sunday, May 31st, 2009 at 4:14 am

The Kalona City Council will be meeting tomorrow in the Kalona Public Library. Items on the agenda include discussion of the farmers market, approval of cigarette permits for local stores, and discussion for the issuing of a liquor license for Tuscan Moon Grill. The meeting will be held in the librarys meeting room at 7:30 pm.

Babysitting Basics

Posted: Sunday, May 31st, 2009 at 4:14 am

Washington County Extension will be offering a second Babysitting Basics course June 15-19. Nancy Adrian with the Extension office says the course will cover topics such as age appropriate toys, activities, safety information, and first aid procedures. Adrian says the course is available for both boys and girls completing 5th grade and above. Registration forms can be picked up at the Extension office and are due by June 5 along with a $25 fee. For questions, contact Nancy Adrian at 653-4811.

Washington SWEEP

Posted: Saturday, May 30th, 2009 at 4:11 am

Washington community members gathered in Central Park yesterday (5/29) to celebrate the Centennial Fountain’s 70th anniversary. Among those present were Sarah Morrison Miller. She witnessed the fountain being built in the late 30’s. She says her father was part of the committee that spearheaded the project. Morrison Miller says today the fountain is just as beautiful, and has served as a centerpiece for Washington.

Grassley Flood Relief

Posted: Saturday, May 30th, 2009 at 4:10 am

Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley says the federal government is committed to providing assistance to victim’s of last year’s flooding. The New Hartford Republican says they have a plan in place in case FEMA money runs out. Grassley’s not worried about that happening. He says there is still money allocated for Iowa that has not been spent yet. To date Washington County has received nearly $254,000 in federal aid.

Loebsack Stimulus

Posted: Saturday, May 30th, 2009 at 4:09 am

Some school administrators have expressed concern over how Iowa is using federal stimulus money. The state is using the funds to back fill cuts made by the Iowa legislature this spring. Congressman Dave Loebsack says it’s meant to preserve jobs until the economy turns around. Iowa is getting $54-million in economic recovery money. Loebsack says in education, most of that money is going to title-1 programs, special education and reduced cost lunches.

BOS 28E

Posted: Saturday, May 30th, 2009 at 4:08 am

Washington County will continue to contract out certain mental health services to Southeast Iowa Case Management. Supervisors this week approved the new arrangement. Case Management Director Marcy Murphy says her agency acts as a sort of liaison. Her company provides services for 12 other counties in the region.

Family Wellness Carnival

Posted: Saturday, May 30th, 2009 at 4:06 am

Summer vacation is a time for fun in the sun and for families to take part in activities together. Bright Futures Chiropractic in Kalona is holding a Family Wellness Carnival today so that parents and kids can understand the importance a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Chris Grier says that the event will feature various games and activities as well as opportunities to learn about good health choices. Grier says the summer months provide the perfect time for families to begin a wellness routine that they can build on once school begins again.