Here is the latest Iowa news from The Associated Press…

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Former Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer isn’t saying if he’ll run for president in 2016. But if he does, he thinks he can connect with Iowa voters. Schweitzer, a Democrat who served as governor from 2005 through early 2013, visited Iowa yesterday. He spoke in front of about 100 people at an event hosted by a liberal advocacy group.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Governor Terry Branstad has suspended rules limiting the work hour of truck drivers who haul propane. Branstad announce his action yesterday evening. It’s effective today and will continue through January 2nd. Branstad signed a proclamation saying the suspension of work rules is necessary because of a shortage of propane.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa (AP) — A group of researchers have established a center for Arctic studies at the University of Northern Iowa. The Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier reports the National Science Foundation awarded a $749,000 grant to Andrew Petrov, a UNI assistant professor of geography, to run the program over the next five years.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Trevor Berkeley drilled his only 3-pointer of the game as Drake scored six points in the final 16 seconds to rally past Western Michigan 71-68 last night. Jacob Enevold Jensen scored 16 points for Drake, which improved to 7 and 3. Jordan Daniels added 14 with seven assists, and Chris Caird had 10 points for the Bulldogs in Des Moines.

The Atlantic City Council, Wednesday, approved the sale of City owned properties at 807 Elm and 203 Locust Streets. Mayor Dave Jones said there was only one bid for the property at 807 Elm Street. The Council approved the lone bid of $1,000 submitted by Janet Jordan. Jones said there were three bids for the property at 203 Locust Street. The Council accepted a bid of $2,050 from ROMAR Investments (Robert and Marlo Stamp). Other bidders included Janet Jordan, who submitted her bid of $1,000 and Chuck Templeman, whose bid of amounted to $2,000. All bidders had previously agreed to provide a performance guarantee to demolish the buildings on the properties and remove them from the site.

In other business, City Administrator Doug Harris and Mayor Dave Jones reminded residents of their obligation under City Ordinance, to shovel their sidewalks within 72 hours of the end of a snow event. Harris said the City received complaints after the last snowstorm from citizens, about some sidewalks not being shoveled. The Mayor says the City will follow-up on those complaints as they are received, and make the property owners aware of their responsibility to provide a safe walking environment.

Atlantic City Councilmen Steve Livengood and Shawn Shouse were recognized for their years of service to the City during the Council’s regular session Wednesday night. Both men opted not to seek re-election last November. Livengood has served on the Council in the At Large position for the past eight-years, numerous committees and as Mayor Pro-Tem on several occasions. Mayor Dave Jones read from plaques commemorating the service of both men. First up was Livengood.

Steve Livengood receives his plaque from Mayor Jones.

Jones said Livengood’s diligence, dedication and exemplary service has inspired many people to witness a “true public servant who quietly and tirelessly labored to help others and make Atlantic a better place to live.” He said his humor and inspired service will be greatly missed. Shouse has been on the Council for the past four-years as the 5th Ward representative. He too has served on numerous committees and commissions. Jones pointed out Shouse was always meticulous in making sure City documents and procedures were followed correctly, making sure the “I’s” were dotted and the “T’s” crossed.

Shawn Shouse receives his plaque from the Mayor.

He said Shouse had taken the City’s lawyer “To task a couple of times…has been fair about his concerns…we’ve had some disagreements, but Shaun’s always been good for the Council and everything else.” Afterward Livengood and Shouse spoke about their experiences in City government. Livengood said people have said being a Councilperson is a “Thankless job,” but in his experience, it isn’t. He said “If it’s a thankless job, you’re doing it wrong.” Shouse said “It’s been a really interesting learning experience, and I would encourage other folks to consider it…it’s been fun, actually.”

The Mayor then issued the oath of office to Lori Stuart, who will succeed Shouse, Bob Cord, who replaces Livengood, and Councilperson Kathy Somers, who was unopposed in her bid for re-election to the 2nd Ward. City Clerk Deb Field issued the oath of office to Dave Jones, who was re-elected for a second term, in November.

Mayor Jones directs returning Councilperson Kathy Somers (Center), and newly elected Councilpersons Stuart and Cord in reciting the Oath of Office.

Officials at Cass County Health System recently announced plans for a new chapel to be installed in the Cass County Memorial Hospital. ““Having a centrally accessible space for patients and families to have a quiet moment is an important part overall health,” explained Pat Markham, CEO. “With our recent expansion and renovation our patient areas for inpatient, surgery and emergency care have all relocated and no longer provide convenient access to the former chapel.”

The chapel will include a wall-sized customized wood frame with stained glass panels that are back lit with LED lights. “The design is absolutely beautiful, and will provide a quiet place for meditation and renewal our patients, families and staff,” Pat continued. For more information on how you help support this project, please contact Dawn Marnin, Foundation Director, 712-243-7409 or email mardd@casshealth.org.