(Radio Iowa) – The wife of a prison guard who was murdered by an inmate at the Anamosa State Penitentiary is calling for changes in Iowa’s collective bargaining law. Sara McFarland joined an Iowa Federation Labor rally in the state capitol on Monday.

“My heart aches as I stand here today, not just as a grieving wife, but as a voice for justice and change,” she said.\ Her husband, Robert McFarland, and prison nurse Lorena Schulte were killed nearly two years ago as two inmates attempted to escape. Sara McFarland says prison staff like her late husband should be allowed to bargain over work conditions and safety issues. Under current law, prison staff not classified as public safety officers and are only allowed to discuss their wages during union contract talks.

“I promised Robert I would not stop fighting until his brother and sister officers were safe at work…To the lawmakers that say corrections work in a controlled environment so they should not be considered public safety…talk to the officers who do this job every day, then you will see just how wrong you are,” she said. “…My husband died stopping an escape attempt and keeping the public safe.”

Other union members at the event urged Iowans to rally around union priorities like raising the minimum wage and letting Iowans see a doctor of their choice if they’re injured at work. Iowa Federation of Labor president Charlie Wishman acknowledges it will require electing new people to the state legislature and congress who support union priorities.  “I know that everybody here, you’re going to do everything you can to get your members registered (to vote)” Wishman said, “…and we’re get out and we’re going to fight.”

There was no mention of a bill pending in the legislature that would change the rules for union recertification votes before collective bargaining talks begin in state and local government.

DES MOINES – The Iowa Department of Corrections today (Monday) announced the appointment of Paul Cornelius as the new Chief of Staff, effective March 1, 2024. With a distinguished career spanning 22 years in State Government, Cornelius brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. His proven leadership and commitment to excellence make him an excellent fit for this crucial position within the department.

In his role as Chief of Staff, Cornelius will play a pivotal role in advancing the mission of the Iowa Department of Corrections, working closely with leadership to develop and implement strategic initiatives, enhance operational efficiency, and promote a culture of innovation and accountability.

IDOC Director Beth Skinner said “We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Cornelius to the Iowa Department of Corrections team. His extensive background and dedication to public service make him an invaluable asset as we continue our efforts to improve the correctional system and better serve the people of Iowa.”

Cornelius expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, in saying “I am honored to join the Iowa Department of Corrections and contribute to the important work being done to promote safety, rehabilitation, and positive outcomes for all individuals within our correctional system.”

(Carroll, Iowa) – A collision this (Monday) morning in Carroll claimed the life of a woman from Glidden. The Iowa State Patrol reports 56-year-old Lisa Feilmeier, who was not wearing a seat belt, was transported by Carroll EMS to St. Anthony Hospital in Carroll, where she was pronounced deceased. The crash happened at around 6-a.m. on Highway 30, just east of Griffith Road.

The Patrol says a 2011 Chevy Equinox SUV driven by Lisa Feilmeyer, was traveling west on Highway 30 in the inside lane. A 2017 Ford Fusion driven by 41-year-old Eric Hahn, of Carroll, was also westbound in the inside lane. The SUV struck the car on the rear passenger side, in front of Deluxe Animal Hospital in the inside lane westbound.

The Chevy came to rest in the north ditch on its top. The Patrol says Eric Hahn wasn’t hurt in the collision. The Patrol was assisted at the crash scene by the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Carroll EMS, Carroll Police and Carroll Fire/Rescue.

Here is a map of counties in Iowa that have a Burn Ban currently in-place until further notice. Updates are posted on the IDPS website.

Each year Oathoudt Farm Supply and the CRYSTALYX® Cares program pick a school in the area to give a donation to, and this year Atlantic FFA was selected.  Jason Oathoudt said,  “CRYSTALYX® Cares program is ideal for rural livestock communities that is designed to assist youth or community groups raise funds to expand their educational opportunities.”

Photo credit: CRYSTALYX® Cares program
Left to Right: Joaquin Wailes, Jason Oathoudt, Colton Rudy, Wyatt

How the program works is that for every CRYSTALYX® barrel sold by a Hubbard Feeds dealership during the months of September and October, CRYSTALYX® would donate $2 per barrel to a youth or community group selected by the dealer. Oathoudt Farm Supply was enrolled in this program resulting in a donation check to Atlantic FFA.

We want to thank everyone from the community of Oathoudt Farm Supply for their support of buying barrels so Atlantic FFA could receive a donation to their chapter.  Atlantic FFA Treasurer Roth Den Beste said, “Thank you to Oathoudt Farm Supply for their generous donation.  Without support from local businesses, our FFA chapter would not be as successful as it is.”

– article provided

February 26, 2024 (DES MOINES) – Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and a delegation of farmers and other agricultural industry leaders just returned from a trade mission to Mexico that was held February 18-24. The mission, coordinated by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA), was focused on increasing exports of manufactured products and agricultural goods.

“Because of the incredible productivity of Iowa farmers and favorable free trade agreements, we have an opportunity to supply customers here and around the world. Mexico is Iowa’s largest export destination for corn, pork, and dried distillers grains as well as a significant market for soybeans, soybean meal, beef and ethanol,” said Secretary Naig. “By leading strategic trade missions to both established and emerging markets, we’re able to thank our customers for their past business, strengthen existing relationships and discover new business opportunities. All of this will create even more market demand for Iowa’s high quality, safe, consistent and reliable agriculture products.”

Iowa companies exported $4.2 billion in goods to Mexico in 2023, a new record for Iowa exports to Mexico. Mexico is Iowa’s largest export destination for corn, pork, distillers grains, a byproduct of ethanol production, and second for soybeans. Iowa exported $973 million in corn, $706 million in pork and $392 million in soybeans to Mexico in 2023. Mexico was the second largest export market for U.S. exporters in 2023, with overall total exports valued at $323 billion.   Specific to top agricultural products, Mexico purchased $28.5 billion – a record. (Source: WiserTrade)

Mission participants included members of the Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Corn, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation and IEDA staff. Delegates participated in meetings specific to their market entry or expansion needs.

The IEDA’s International Trade Office connects Iowa companies with markets for their products and services, educates Iowa businesses on exporting, and assists global companies wishing to establish or expand operations in Iowa. To learn more about these services or other trade missions the IEDA is planning, visit iowaeda.com/missions.

by Lily Johnson, Atlantic FFA Reporter

On Wednesday, February 7th, 2024, 18 members of the Atlantic FFA chapter competed in the Sub District Career Development Events at Tri-Center High School.

Extemporaneous Speaking Lola Comes

Earning a Gold rating, placing 1st and advancing to Districts, was Claire Pellett competing in Public Speaking and Lola Comes earning a gold and

Public Speaking Claire Pellett

placing 2nd in Extemporaneous Speaking.

Also advancing to Districts, the Conduct of Meetings Team placed 3rd and earned a Silver. Team members include Addie Freund, Addalyn Sonntag, Rylee Harlan, Jacquie Freund, Lily Johnson, Collin Harris and Maddy Anderson. Charli Goff placed first earning a Silver in Arc/Wire welding. Keegan Kemp also placed first with a Silver in Oxy Acetylene Welding. Lauren Comes competed in Ag Sales earning a Gold and was selected as the Alternate for Districts.

Conduct of meetings (Left to right) Addalynn Sonntag, Lily Johnson, Rylee Harlan, Collin Harris, Addie Freund, Maddy Anderson, and Jacquie Freund.

Arc/Wire welding Charli Goff

Competing but not going to district includes Bailey Grieshaber in Ag broadcasting earning a silver. Callee Pellett in Job interview receiving a silver. Chapter program consisting of Hayden Kleen, Frank Freund, and Keston Schmidt earning a bronze.

Oxy Acetylene welding Keegan Kemp

Competing in the Farm Business Management Test was Mia Kloewer placing 10th.

In the FFA Chapter Quiz, Atlantic FFA had 8 members participate.  Earning a gold were Lily Johnson placing 1st, and Addie Freund 5th. Receiving silvers were Keston Schmidt, Natalie Smith, Hunter Quist, Frank Freund, and Claire Schroeder. Earning a bronze was Hayden Kleen.

In the FFA Freshman Greenhand Quiz, Atlantic FFA had 10 members participate. Earning a Gold was Jayden Fiebelkorn. Receiving silvers were Jacquelyn Freund, Rylee Harlan, Addalyn Sonntag, Collin Harris, Maggie Cohrs, Lily Willrich, and Kayedance Sturm. Receiving Bronze include Walker Gary.

Claire, Lola, Keegan, Charli and the Conduct of Meeting team will compete at District FFA Convention Saturday March 2nd in Clarinda.  Lauren will also run for SW District Secretary.

(Atlantic, Iowa) – The Cass County 4-H Endowment committee is hosting the annual 4-H Endowment Pancake Supper on Tuesday, March 12 from 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Cass County Community Center in Atlantic. The Pancake Man will be dishing up fresh pancakes while 4-H members serve sausage, milk, juice, and coffee. Supporters can enjoy all you can eat pancakes, cost is $8/adult and $6/youth 10 & under.

There is also a silent auction going on throughout the evening. The 11 4-H clubs in Cass County, as well as additional friends of 4-H and local business supporters can donate items. If a community business is interested in supporting the Pancake Supper with a Silent Auction donation, please contact the Extension Office. Baskets need to be at the office by March 8th at 4:30pm. “This is a fun aspect to the pancake supper that is a little different each year. It’s always fun to see what new items are donated,” says Katie Bateman, Cass County Youth Coordinator. “We will be featuring different baskets on our Cass County 4-H and Extension social media pages the first weekend of March. Be sure to check out the previews and find a favorite to bid on!”

Proceeds from the 4-H Pancake Supper directly benefit the Cass County 4-H Program. All funds raised go to the Cass County 4-H Endowment. This committee distributes money to cover the 4-H Program Development Fee for all members, financial aid for out of county events, senior scholarships, and start-up dollars for new, innovative youth programs.

The 4-H Program Development Fee is $40 per youth each year to enroll. Instead of having individual 4-H’ers and families take on that expense, the Cass County Extension Council and the 4-H Endowment Committee pick up this cost for our members. “We are very fortunate in Cass County that our 4-H Endowment covers this cost for all members. That would not be possible for us to continue without the outstanding support from our community.” stated Bateman. The Cass County 4-H Endowment also offers grants for youth to attend 4-H camps or conferences outside of Cass County, encouraging them to take their 4-H experience to the next level. They also offer scholarships to graduating senior 4-Hers.

For more information on the Pancake Supper, Cass County 4-H Endowment or how to join 4-H, contact Katie Bateman, Cass County Youth Coordinator, at 243-1132 or kbateman@iastate.edu.

National FFA Week runs from Saturday to Saturday. This year, the week kicked off on Feb. 18 and ended on Saturday, Feb. 24  National FFA Week is a time for FFA members to raise awareness about the National FFA Organization’s role in developing future leaders in agriculture and the importance of agricultural education.

FFA provides the next generation of leaders who will change the world. As the nation’s top school-based youth leadership development organization, FFA helps young people meet new agricultural challenges by encouraging members to develop their unique talents and explore their interests in various career pathways. FFA members are our future leaders, food suppliers, innovators and more!  Atlantic FFA members participated in a variety of different events and dress up days as the week continued.

On Monday, Atlantic FFA members began Carhartt/Western Day where students recognized harding individuals that make our community strong.  Monday was also FFA Bingo during a seminar where winning teams were given healthy, nutritious snacks that represented a variety of agricultural crops.  Hudson Goff said, “Bingo was a great way to kick off FFA Week and spread the message of FFA.”

Tuesday FFA members celebrated Dress Like your Favorite Teacher day to give a shout out to our favorite teachers who work hard every day.  FFA members also looked around the building for miniature pigs and turned them in to Mr. Miller for a fruit snack prize. “It was super fun to go around and look for the mini pigs with my friends, and I’m happy there was a prize.” Said Maggie Cohrs.

Wednesday is a favorite for Atlantic FFA members, Tractor Day.  This year 16 FFA members drove a variety of tractors. “We had modern tractors all the way to antique tractors this year,” said Atlantic FFA Advisor Eric Miller.  “Thank you to all of the families that participated this year.” Also, FFA members had Anything but a Backpack Day where students showed off their imagination and brought unique items to carry around their school supplies that are used every day.  Charli Goff said, “It’s a great way to showcase Iowa agriculture and a fun experience for our FFA members.”

Thursday was American/Pattorict Day at AHS. Students and Staff dressed in Red White and Blue to celebrate America.  Thursday morning, the Atlantic FFA Chapter Officer Team cooked breakfast for the staff at AHS.  The morning began by FFA members cooking Butterbraids in the FCS kitchen.  Chapter President Colton Rudy then used a Blackstone griddle that was purchased with a giftcard from Tractor Supply in Atlantic to cook sausage links, bacon, eggs and finally pancakes.  FFA Officers Charli Goff, Lola Comes, Lily Johnson and Claire Pellett kept Colton supplied with food for the griddle and set everything up in the Ag room.  The meal was a success and Atlantic History Teacher Terry Hinzman said, “The FFA is very visible in the school district thanks to Mr Miller and the do a lot behind the scenes stuff at the school.”

Atlantic FFA members wrapped up the week wearing their FFA Tee Shirt day to celebrate the Atlantic FFA.  Each FFA member also took an individual photo with the FFA emblem.  These photos will be used on the Chapter Website and Chapter Scrapbook.  FFA members also played Ag Olympics that were run by Colton Rudy and Charli Goff.  Colton Rudy said ”It’s a great to get kids moving in class and showing some of the skills that agriculturist need on a daily basis.”

— article provided

DES MOINES – The Iowa Department of Natural Resources was notified of an untreated water discharge into the Boyer River in Crawford County.

At 12:30 p.m on Feb. 26, the DNR Atlantic Field Office received a call from the City of Denison Water Plant regarding a discharge of untreated groundwater. At approximately 10:00 a.m. crews from the water plant were conducting a routine maintenance inspection to the raw main located at Hwy 39 and C. Avenue in Denison when the line overflowed.

Approximately 60,000 gallons of raw untreated water were discharged and flowed approximately 235 yards on the surface and into the Boyer River. DNR staff say the Boyer River has a slight red tint likely due to the iron content of the raw groundwater.

There are no risks to the public. No dead fish have been observed.