IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) – The University of Iowa’s president has apologized to one offended employee for saying publicly that instructors who aren’t ready to teach their classes should be shot. Bruce Harreld wrote in an email to librarian Lisa Gardinier that his statement to the UI Staff Council was “an unfortunate off-the-cuff remark.” He says he didn’t mean to offend anyone or imply that he supports gun violence in any form.

Harreld writes that he’s used the comment in many forums previously without drawing a complaint. Gardinier says Harreld’s remark came during the Dec. 9 meeting, in response to a staffer’s question about instruction. Gardinier told Harreld the remark was “irresponsible and unprofessional.” She later welcomed his apology, saying she understood his remark to be rhetorical.

Gardinier shared the correspondence with The Associated Press.

Chairpersons for the Cass and Audubon County Community Foundations report grant funds are available in their respective counties for non-profit agencies as part of the Spring grant cycle. In each County, about $108,000 is being made available. Applications for a part of those funds are due no later than February 1st, 2016.

Detailed application procedures, fact sheets, and a link to the application form can be obtained online at http://omahafoundation.org/swiowa. Applications will only be accepted through the online system.

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Contact Dennis Nissen at 800-794-3458 or dennis@omahafoundation.org or Denise Cardos at denise@omahafoundation.org with grant application-specific questions. All completed applications will be considered at the March board meeting with notification of results in early April.

Only organizations providing charitable services in Cass County and Audubon County, respectively, are eligible. Those organizations must be able to demonstrate broad community/county support and supply a copy of their 501(c)(3) IRS determination letter. Requests for general operational funds will not be considered.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce invites you to experience the magic of Christmas at Santa’s Cabin one last time this Saturday, December 19th from1:30–to 3:30-pm in the Atlantic City Park.

Share your holiday wishes with Santa before he makes the trip back to the North Pole. Enjoy a stroll down Chestnut Street by horse drawn carriage from 1:30-to 3:30-pm, as well.

Free hot cocoa and popcorn will also be available.