United Group Insurance

Due to drought, water flow of Raccoon River at Des Moines is 10% of normal

News, Weather

May 12th, 2021 by Ric Hanson

(Radio Iowa) – The main source of drinking water for Iowa’s largest city and the surrounding metro area is down about 90-percent from normal due to the extended drought. Des Moines Water Works C-E-O Ted Corrigan says most longtime residents have never seen the river levels this low. “The median flow in the Raccoon River during May is 4,000 CFS (cubic feet per second) and today the river’s flowing at about 400 CFS,” Corrigan says, “so it’s quite a bit lower than it would typically be at this time of year.” While the river is far below its normal level, Corrigan says it’s no reason to panic.

“There’s currently no issue. We have plenty of water to supply all of our customers,” Corrigan says. “Conditions are dry. The grass is green and there’s plenty of water but the river is low and it’s not cause for concern but it’s cause for awareness and communication.” Residents are -not- being warned to stop watering their lawns, filling swimming pools or washing their cars. “We are not recommending that anyone cut back on anything at this point in time,” Corrigan says. “We always ask that people use water wisely. Make sure that as they’re setting up their irrigation systems that they’re not watering the sidewalk and the driveway and those kinds of things, that they’re not wasting water.”

Corrigan was asked if he sees this as a being a short-term situation. “Hard to say, honestly,” Corrigan says. “There’s forecast rain for the next several days. If we get that, that will certainly help. If we don’t, it will be cause for additional awareness.”

The Des Moines Water Works supplies drinking water to about a half million residents in the capitol city area.

Updated COVID-19 Guidance for Mills County Offices

News

May 12th, 2021 by Ric Hanson

Mills County Public Information Officer Nick Johnson reports, in their regular meeting on Tuesday, May 11th, the Mills County Board of Supervisors adopted updated procedures for county offices, effective as of 8-a.m., May 13th. The updates include:

  1. The Mask Mandate has been lifted. Employees and visitors to county offices who wish to continue to wear a mask, may do so, but it is no longer required.
  2. Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Susan Christensen, has ordered that masks and/or face coverings shall be worn in ALL Court-controlled areas, until further notice. This does not include the top floor of the Mills County Courthouse. Anyone conducting business or attending court on the upper level of the courthouse, will be required to wear a mask.
  3. Social distancing should be maintained in the common areas by all persons in the courthouse.
  4. Any person with COVID-19 symptoms should refrain from entering a public building. Stay home if you are ill.
  5. Good handwashing is essential, and hand sanitizers will be available at all entrances and in all offices.
  6. Should you have any questions specific to your business, contact the appropriate department directly.

Please be advised also, that these precaution are in place to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. However, these measures do not eliminate the possibility of contracting or spreading the virus.

Johnson says also, COVID-19 vaccines are now readily available in Mill County. Mills County Public Health has the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines. HyVee Pharmacy in Glenwood has the Pfizer vaccine. Kohl’s Pharmacy in Malvern also has the Moderna vaccine. Appointments at all locations are available, and walk-ins are accepted.

State Qualifying Track Meets on tap Thursday

Sports

May 12th, 2021 by admin

2021 State Qualifying Track Meets will be contested on Thursday around the state. In Class 4A, the top two place winners in each event plus the next twelve (12) best performances statewide from qualifying meet place winners (1st – 8th) will advance to the state meet. Class 3A and Class 2A, the top two place winners in each event plus the next eight (8) performances statewide from qualifying meet place winners (1st – 8th) will advance to the state meet. In Class 1A, the top place winner in each event plus the next fourteen (14) best performances statewide from qualifying meet place winners will advance to the state meet. If there are ties, the highest qualifying meet place winner (1st – 8th) will be the qualifier. If the tie still remains, the school name, as printed in the IHSAA Directory, will be used as the tie breaker. The first school name alphabetically will become the qualifier. There will be no more than 24 qualifiers in any event.

Tickets for state qualifying meets are $6. All sites will utilize HomeTown Ticketing, which creates a digital ticket for spectators. Tickets for all sites and classes will go on sale at 9 a.m. on Monday, May 10 through the IHSAA Tickets page.

Here is a look at where area teams will be competing.

CLASS 1A

@Audubon: Alta-Aurelia, Audubon, CAM, Coon Rapids-Bayard, Earlham, Exira-EHK, Glidden-Ralston, Griswold, IKM-Manning, Newell-Fonda, Nodaway Valley, Orient-Macksburg, St. Mary’s Storm Lake, Stanton.

@ Mount Ayr: Bedford, Diagonal, East Union, Essex, Lamoni, Lenox, Moravia, Mormon Trail, Moulton-Udell, Mount Ayr, Murray, Seymour, Southwest Valley, Wayne.

@ West Harrison: Ar-We-Va, Boyer Valley, East Mills, Fremont-Mills, Heartland Christian, Iowa School for the Deaf, Logan-Magnolia, Riverside, Sidney, St. Albert, Tri-Center, West Harrison, West Monona, Woodbine.

CLASS 2A

@ Treynor: ACGC, AHSTW, Clarinda, Kuemper Catholic, Missouri Valley, MVAOCOU, Panorama, Red Oak, Shenandoah, Treynor, Underwood, West Central Valley.

CLASS 3A

@ Glenwood: Atlantic, Bishop Heelan, Carroll, Clarke, Creston, Denison-Schleswig, Glenwood, Harlan.

CLASS 4A

@ CB Abraham Lincoln: CB Abraham Lincoln, CB Thomas Jeffeson, Dowling Catholic, Lewis Central, Sioux City East, Sioux City North, Sioux City West, WDM Valley.

Iowa’s governor says no reason for us to continue to fear Covid any longer

News

May 12th, 2021 by Ric Hanson

(Radio Iowa/updated) – Governor Kim Reynolds says there’s no reason to fear Covid-19 any longer. She says Covid case numbers in Iowa are at a 10 month low, the number of Iowa hospital patients being treated for Covid is down 90 percent from the high point in November, and about half the state’s adults are fully vaccinated. “Life really is getting back to normal,” Reynolds says, “and all around us, there are more signs of it.”

Reynolds says it’s time to lean FURTHER into normal and that’s why she has declared that the three-hundred extra dollars in federal benefits for unemployment Iowans will end June 12th.  “Jobs are readily available and employers are eager to hire,” Reynolds says, “and it’s time to get back to work.” House Democratic Leader Todd Prichard says the governor’s move is heartless and shows Reynolds is willing to use vulnerable Iowans as a stepping stone for her own political gain.

Reynolds says regular unemployment will continue. And, to other critics who say more Iowans would join the workforce if businesses offered better pay, Reynolds says the market is taking care of that. “I love it when I have businesses tell me they’re having some of their best years ever and they’ve got orders that are waiting to be filled,” Reynolds says. “They just can’t find employees to help build the equipment, so I think these are great jobs, they have benefits, there’s opportunities for growth…and you’re seeing wages adjust accordingly.”

The governor says many state employees who’ve been working from home will be returning to their offices in the coming weeks. Reynolds says state agencies are assessing which jobs can be done remotely. “I’m excited about that because I think that opens up the application pool statewide,” Reynolds says, “and that gives people that don’t necessarily live in the metro areas the opportunity to be a state employee.” Reynolds says she plans to meet with businesses and organizations over the next few days to discuss how all can return to more normal work, business and entertainment experiences.

“There’s no reason for us to fear Covid-19 any longer,” Reynolds says. “We know how to manage it and individuals can be trusted to make decisions that will keep us on a path forward. I believe Iowans are ready to live our lives more fully again and I think we’ve earned it.” Reynolds made her comments late this (Wednesday) morning during a news conference to highlight the state’s response to increased demand at food pantries and food banks.

Officials say more than 400-thousand Iowans are food insecure and the need for food assistance is 50 percent higher than than it was two years ago.

Five year transportation plan update approved

News

May 12th, 2021 by Ric Hanson

(Radio Iowa) – The state Transportation Commission has approved the first draft of its updated five-year transportation plan. The plan include an estimated three-point-six billion dollars for road construction and improvement, which the D-O-T’s Stuart Anderson says includes some ongoing projects. “The Interstate 74 bridge replacement over the Mississippi River in the Quad Cities. We are in the last major year of construction on that project — hoping to see a second span open to traffic by the end of this calendar year,” he says. It also includes continuing work on the I-80/380 interchange west of Iowa City.”We have the final phase of that work underway now, so that should be wrapped up in the next couple of years,” according to Anderson. “And then out west in Council Bluffs, continuing a multi-year effort to reconstruct the interstate system in that area.”

He ways work will continue on expanding I-35 to six lanes from Polk County to Story County and Ames. The five-year plan is updated and new projects are approved in June. One new project ties into the work near Iowa City. “The commission is now wanting to prioritize the reconstruction and widening of Interstate 380 between Iowa City and Cedar Rapids. So they were able to add into this program the first phase of that work — which really builds on the reconstruction of the mixmaster at 80 and 380. So, they’ve added in this program the first phase of that work.,” according to Anderson.

The pandemic has cause delays in getting products and increased the prices of a lot of construction materials. Anderson says that hasn’t been an issue for roads yet. “So far our lettings for fiscal year 2021 which we are wrapping up now, have come out almost exactly equivalent to the amount we estimated for the five-year program. Which is great news,” Anderson says. “But the next months we’ll be monitoring very closely.” He says they don’t know how long supply chain issues will last and if they will eventually hit road construction. “There has been discussion about steel prices increasing, obviously a lot of steel goes into construction. Fuel prices — because of the supply issues they are having with fuel now — a lot of fuel goes into road construction projects — so that could have an impact,” Anderson says.

Anderson says the road use tax funding that fell off at the start of the pandemic, but that has rebounded and they’ve also gotten federal pandemic funds to help with any deficits.

Adair County Tourism Launches New Website

News

May 12th, 2021 by Ric Hanson

(Greenfield) – There’s a new way to explore Adair County. The Adair County Tourism Council has launched a new website: visitadaircounty.org. The site offers information on the county’s tourist sites and attractions as well as dining and lodging options. ACTC Chairman Terri Queck-Matzie says “The mission is simple. We want people to visit Adair County. We have much to offer here. We hope this website will make it easier to identify and connect with the things they want to do.”

Even more information about activities and happenings in Adair County can be found on the Adair County Iowa Tourism Facebook page.

Adams County Sheriff’s report, 5/12/21

News

May 12th, 2021 by Ric Hanson

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office reports three recent arrests. At around 7:30-p.m. May 7th, Deputies arrested 37-year-old Clay Pettit, of Mt. Ayr, on an active warrant for Burglary in the 3rd Degree. His cash or surety bond was set at $5,000. That same evening, Adams County Deputies arrested 32-year-old Angel Sharpsteen, of Corning, on an active warrant for Failure to Appear. She was transported to the Adams County Jail.

And, on May 6th, Adams County Deputies arrested 46-year-old Alisha Peckham, of Creston, on an active warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance/1st offense (Meth). Her bond cash/surety was set at $1,000.

On-farm BeefMeet events focus on climate and environmental sustainability

Ag/Outdoor

May 12th, 2021 by Ric Hanson

The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association is set to host four educational, on-farm events, in June. “BeefMeets” feature educational sessions on policy and production, industry updates, a farm tour, trade show and meal. This year’s focus is climate and environmental sustainability. Well-respected professionals will share how beef cattle producers can further enhance their reputation as the original stewards of the land and natural resources at the meetings, one of which is set to take place in Lewis, on June 10th. (see details below)

Thursday, June 10: Southwest Region BeefMeet at the Euken-Myers Farm (67242 610th St.) Lewis, IA.

Beef Sustainability – A Paradigm Shift presented by Ashley McDonald, NCBA senior director of sustainability . There is more and more going on around beef sustainability, but the good news is the world is beginning to see U.S. beef production as part of the solution to their environmental challenges. Find out what the landscape of goals, commitments and initiatives looks like and how the cattle industry can further enhance its reputation as the planet’s original stewards, driving demand for our product.

Other event dates and locations can be found here. In addition to the educational sessions, a full trade show and networking opportunities, cattlemen will have the opportunity to share policy and industry concerns with ICA leaders. The evening will conclude with a tour of the hosting beef operation.The regional BeefMeets will take place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Registration is encouraged, but walk-ins are always welcome. The price is $25 for members, $35 for non-members and free for students.

Come see how the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association is working for you at the 2021 BeefMeets! Register today at https://www.iacattlemen.org/events-meetings/beefmeets-regional-conventions or call 515-296-2266. Payment will be taken at the door, the day of the event.

Caridnals place Martinez on 10-day Injured List

Sports

May 12th, 2021 by admin

ST. LOUIS, Mo., May 11, 2021 – The St. Louis Cardinals announced prior to tonight’s game that they have placed right-handed pitcher Carlos Martínez (right ankle) on the 10-day Injured List, retroactive to May 9.  The team also announced that right-handed pitcher Johan Oviedo has been recalled from Memphis (AAA).

Martínez, who posted a 9-8 win over the Rockies last Saturday (May 8), is 3-4 with a 4.35 ERA in seven starts this season, limiting the opposition to a .219 BA and just two home runs.

Oviedo (0-1, 4.61) has made three appearances (two starts) for the Cardinals this season. The rookie right-hander worked 2.2 innings, throwing 48 pitches, in a start for Memphis this past Sunday (May 9).

Oviedo wears uniform no. 59.

Cardinals receive city approval for increased fan capacity beginning May 21st

Sports

May 12th, 2021 by admin

ST. LOUIS, Mo., May 11, 2021 – The St. Louis Cardinals organization announced that it has received approval from the City of St. Louis and the Health Department to increase capacity at Busch Stadium beginning Friday, May 21.

“As more of our residents make the choice to become vaccinated, in tandem with the Cardinals leadership’s efforts to have stadium-goers follow COVID-19 safety protocols, we believe more fans can be allowed into Busch Stadium without impacting the critical work our community has done to limit the spread of SARS-COV2,” said Dr. Fredrick Echols, acting director of Health for the City of St. Louis.  “As the Cardinals take this latest step toward a new normal, we all must continue to comply with the city’s COVID-19 mitigation measures to continue efforts to reopen the economy in a safe and responsible manner.”

Seating pods will now be spaced a minimum of three feet apart in all directions, allowing Busch Stadium capacity to roughly double.  Additional tickets to the May 21-23 weekend series vs. the Chicago Cubs at Busch Stadium are on sale now at cardinals.com or via phone at 314-345-9000, with tickets starting as low as $20.  Ticket on-sale dates for June games will be determined and announced at a later date.

Additionally, the St. Louis Cardinals are partnering with the City of St. Louis to host a vaccination event inside the Cardinals Club at Busch Stadium on Wednesday, May 12 (9AM—4PM), Thursday, May 13 (9AM—4PM), and Friday, May 14 (9AM—1PM).  Each individual who receives a vaccine at the event will receive a voucher good for two free tickets to a 2021 Cardinals game.  Free parking will be offered in the Starr Lot located directly across the street from Gate 2, on the southwest side of Busch Stadium.  Individuals can also ride Metrolink to the Stadium Station downtown to be dropped off directly across the street from the ballpark.  Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines will be available.  Individuals are asked to register in advance for the event at https://form.jotform.com/211295106818152 (link accessible via St. Louis Department of Health’s social media accounts @CityofSTLDOH).  Individuals must enter through Gate 2 (Home Plate) for the event.  The club plans to announce a similar vaccination effort in cooperation with St. Louis County at a later date.

“We are thankful for the guidance provided by Mayor Tishaura Jones’ office and Dr. Echols in helping us safely increase our capacity at Busch Stadium,” said Bill DeWitt III, Team President.  “We are also proud to partner with the City of St. Louis in their effort to vaccinate more fans and encourage those who haven’t been vaccinated yet to come down to the ballpark, get your vaccine, and enjoy a Cardinals game on us later this year.”

“I am excited that Busch Stadium will now be able to welcome more Cardinals fans into Downtown St. Louis,” said City of St. Louis Mayor Tishaura Jones.  “As we #ReopenSTL, I encourage our visitors from all over the region to support our businesses Downtown, and to do so with the health and safety of others in mind.”

To accommodate the increase of guests at the ballpark, gate times will open two hours before first pitch on Friday-Sunday games and one-and-a-half hours before first pitch on Monday-Thursday contests.

Policies and protocols that have been in place since the start of the season will remain to ensure the health and safety of fans, employees, and players in 2021, including:

·         Socially-distanced seating: Guests will be seated in pods of four or less with a minimum distance of three feet between seating pods in all directions.

·         Masks required: Masks are required at all times in all areas of the stadium, including the seating bowl, unless guests are actively eating and drinking.

·         Mobile-only ticketing: All game tickets will be delivered via the MLB Ballpark app, ensuring a touchless entry into the ballpark.

·         Cashless transactions: Concession stands, kiosks and other retail transactions made in the stadium are cashless and only offer credit and debit payment options. Debit cards are available for purchase using cash with no service fees at a limited number of locations inside the stadium.

·         Bags not permitted: To reduce contamination and ensure touchless entry, bags are not permitted to be brought in to Busch Stadium, except for medical bags, diaper bags with a child or clutches/wristlets not exceeding 6″ x 8″.  All exceptions must enter via the designated Inspection Lane at each gate.

·         Designated entry gates: Guests will be directed to enter and exit the stadium through one of six designated entry gates to expedite the process and limit crowding at any one entrance.  A designated entry gate will be noted on each ticket.  Guests are not permitted to exit and re-enter the stadium.

Fans can view the full list of Busch Stadium policies and protocols for the 2021 season at cardinals.com/backatbusch.

Further, with the increase in capacity, the organization is looking to add more ushers and event staff at Busch Stadium.  Interested candidates should visit cardinals.com/jobs to apply or learn more information.