Thursday, June 30, 2011

Saylorville Lake Closings

High water at Saylorville Lake's shut down several boat ramps, beaches and other recreation areas ahead of the July Fourth holiday weekend. The Army Corps of Engineers says Lakeview Lower Boat Ramp, Sandpiper Beach and boat ramp, Cherry Glen Lower Boat Ramp, Lincoln Access Boat Ramp, Oak Grove Beach and the section of the Neal Smith Trail between Prairie Flower Campground and the Saylorville Marina are all closed.

Traffic Jams Expected Tomorrow Night Downtown

Des Moines police expect about 100,000 people downtown tomorrow night for several large events. There's the Yankee Pops Concert at the State Capital, the Iowa Cubs at Principal Park, and the Iowa Barnstormers at Wells Fargo Arena. There will be problems with traffic so be prepared.

WDM Sprays For Bugs this Weekend

The city of West Des Moines plans to spray chemicals to control mosquitoes and other insects during the evening from Friday to Sunday. The Des Moines Register reports that's with the cooperation of the weather. For more information, call the West Des Moines Public Works Department at 222-3480.

School Fraud

A state audit's found the business manager of a small Iowa school district, Lake Mills Community, used over $200,000 in school funding to pay off her personal credit card balances. State Auditor David Vaudt says Chris Mathahs resigned in December. Among other things, KCCI reports the investigation found Mathahs improperly used district money to go to a conference in Florida, where, oddly enough, she gave a presentation on how small districts can minimize the risk of fraud.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

new budget


Iowa lawmakers have nearly completed a 6 billion dollar budget for the fiscal year that begins tomorrow, but a session-long effort to find a property tax reform compromise appears to be in doubt. Top leaders say they have finished most of the work on a new spending plan that will span the next two budget years as Governor Branstad has demanded.

search for new president

A panel charged with finding a new president for Iowa State University met for the first time yesterday. Candidates for the job will likely come from within higher education, but selecting someone from outside academia should not be ruled out, they concluded during the session.

Heat Watch Tomorrow

Excessive heat watch take effect tomorrow afternoon right through Friday morning. The National Weather Service says the peak period of concern's from 1-to-8p.m. tomorrow. Temperatures tomorrow are expected to hit the mid to upper 90s across the watch area, with the Heat Index reaching 105 to 110 degrees during the mid to late afternoon hours. NWS advises drinking plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Des Moines Automated Traffic System Goes Live Sunday

At 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, any traffic violations recorded by Des Moines’ automated traffic safety system will get you a ticket an a fine. According to the Des Moines Register, a red-light violations will cost you $65. Speeding tickets start at $65 for driving 1 to 15 miles/hour over the limit; $75 for 16 to 20 mph; and $80 for 21 mph. After that you'll be charged $2 for each mile an hour over the posted limit.

Corps Upping Outflow From Red Rock Lake

If you live along the Des Moines River downstream from Red Rock Lake, the Army Corps of Engineers says you could soon see flooding. The Corps increased the release from the same to 30,000 cubic feet/second. They're trying to preserve water storage space. KCCI reports engineers say water behind the dam's expected to keep rising and so will the outflow. When the pool hits 776 feet above sea level, the outflow will be raised to 35,000 cubic feet/second.

Woman Admits Stealing to Feed Gambling Habit

Julie Fridolfson's got a 10-year suspended sentence, and three years probation yesterday, after admitting she stole $55,000 from the Iowa Drainage Ditch Association to feed her gambling habit. The Fort Dodge woman plead guilty to theft. KCCI reports the 49-year old stole the money between July 2009 and August of last year. Prosecutors say Fridolfson's paid back every penny.

President's Pep Talk

President Obama gave a pep talk on jobs during his visit to Iowa. Obama said it's innovative companies like Alcoa that are going to help jump start the economy and the work force. To help accomplish this, the President announced a new commitment that will help community college students get jobs.

His Blood Alcohol Level Was What??

A West Des Moines man's been charged with operating while intoxicated after testing almost five times the legal limit. According to WHO TV, 28-year old Douglas Cochrane spun out on I-35 after police say he had second thoughts about passing another car Sunday afternoon. Officer say Cochrane had a preliminary blood alcohol level of .386 The legal limit's.08.

Neiderbach's Lawyer Wants New Trial

Jonas Neiderbach's attorney's filed paperwork to get him a new trial. The 22-year old was convicted by a Polk County jury in May on six felony charges stemming from life-threatening brain injuries suffered by his then-six week old son, Ethan, in 2009. KCCI reports the filing claims the court was in error on rulings concerning evidence and instructions to the jury. Neiderbach was supposed to be sentenced tomorrow.

Polk County Tax Sale

The Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel was one of the properties on the block at this weeks annual Polk County tax sale. The Savery’s unpaid bill of $172,489 was one of the largest outstanding balances. The County's owed over $6.5-million in overdue taxes. The Des Moines Register reports each of the 3,000 tax certificates bought to Monday's auction entitles the holder to take the title after two years if the owner hasn’t paid him or her back. No word on who bought the Savery certificate.

Car Almost Ends Up in Pond, Driver Charged

A 45-year-old woman was arrested last night after police say she drove her car through the yard of a home in the 700 block of Southeast 25th Street, and ended up hanging over the embankment to a pond. The Des Moines Register reports a police found a bottle of whiskey in the car. Robin Stajcar, was charged with operating while intoxicated, having an open container, driving without a valid driver’s license, and not having a license. Her boyfriend was in the car, but was released by police.

Donahoe Sentenced

The Urbandale teen who plead guilty to vehicular homicide in April has been given a 10-year suspended sentence, and 5 years probation yesterday. Prosecutors tell KCCI 18 year-old Nicholas Donahoe was doing almost 100 MPH last November when his vehicle rolled several times, killing a friend, 17-year-old Steven Lollman. Donahoe can stay out of prison if he isn't charged with a crime in the next 5 years.

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Rodriguez Ordered Released

The alleged driver of a vehicle that hit and killed an Iowa Air National Guardsman two years ago is going due to his mental incompetency. A judge's ruled Santos Rodriguez, jailed since 2009, for killing Bruce Mundy while trying to get away after stealing some gasoline, can't be tried because he's brain damaged and can't understand the charges against him. Polk County's been working for a week on a permanent supervised living situation for Rodriguez.

WDM Play Day Coming Up

West Des Moines 2nd annual All City Play Day is July 19th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the City Hall campus. The Des Moines Register says the night includes big-wheel races, a bubble gum blowing contest, softball and football throwing contests, potato sack races and many more family activities. The night'll be topped off by a Metro Arts “Jazz in July” concert

Feds Sending Money foir 2010 Ice Storms

Sen. Tom Harkin says Iowa's getting just over $4-million from the federal government to cover costs related to the damage caused by ice storms in January 2010. The money will come from the FEMA. The funds will be distributed to 15 Iowa counties affected by the storms, including Story, Cherokee and Pocahontas counties.

DuPont Plant for Nevada

DuPont got plans for a new plant in Nevada that'll turn corn cobs and cellulose into ethanol. Officials say it takes renewable energy to another level. KCCI reports the project's been in the works since last July. A DuPont spokesperson says corn stover and cobs can now become another farm commodity for area growers.

MissingTama County Money

Iowa's state auditor says over $35,000 collected by the Tama County sheriff's office between 2007 and 2010, never made it into the county's bank account. KCCI reports over $11,000 in jail board fees were never collected. Sheriff Dennis Kucera asked for the audit after jail administrator Gwen Wathan was fired last December. The report's been sent to forwarded to the attorney general's office, the State Department of Criminal Investigation and Tama County Attorney Brent Heeren.

Maplenol Barn Move Set for the 29th

West Des Moines Schools are working with Ron Holland Housemoving, Valley Evangelical Free Church and other community partners to move the Maplenol barn June 29. The City of West Des Moines has asked that the move begin at 11 p.m., and the barn be off the street by 6a.m. The plans for the barn to be moved south across the field at Valley High School to Ashworth Road, south down Valley West Drive to Mills Civic Parkway to 35th Street and finally to its new home on Fuller Road. Expect detours.

More Missouri River Bridge Closings

Another Missouri River closed yesterday and another will temporarily close tomorrow, leaving no river crossings open between Sioux City and Council Bluffs. The Des Moines Register reports Iowa Highway 175, which connects Onawa with Decatur, Neb., is closed west of I-29 because of erosion on the east bridge abutment. U.S. Highway 30 between Missouri Valley and Blair, Neb., will close Wednesday morning for at least two days.

Stabbing Victim Says He Stabbed Himnself

Urbandale Police say charges are pending against 19-year old Stuart Turner. After first telling police he'd been attacked by someone with a knife at South Karen Acres early yesterday, police tell the Des Moines Register during an interview later yesterday, Turner had a new story: his injuries were self-inflicted. Police also say the residential park isn't dangerous.

Des Moines Cop Charged with Assault

A Des Moines police officer's on administrative leave after being charged with assault with injury. 44-year-old Stewart Drake was arrested around 5 a.m. Saturday. The Des Moines Register reports there was an alleged physical confrontation between Drake and 45-year old Melissa Winters who says she'd recently moved back in with him. Winters says the argument started when she questioned him about an ex girlfriend. Drake says there was no physical altercation..

Husband Charged in Wife's Murder

A Butler County man's now charged with first-degree murder in the death of his wife. 36-year old Jury Petersen was found dead in her home on North High St. in Greene June 4. An AMBER alert was issued for her missing 2-year old son Jacob. KCCI reports 39-year old Thomas Peterson was found in South Dakota, where he ramming 2 police vehicles trying to escape. The child was in the car. Thomas Peterson's in the Winner City Jail in Tripp County, South Dakota, on $500,000 bond.

Monday, June 27, 2011

Up Manure Creek

More than 100-thousand fish were killed from manure that seeped into Whitewater Creek in Peosta...that's the tally from the Department of Natural Resources. Manure from the livestock feedlots was pumped to a reception pit that overflowed in heavy rains, and the manure reached the creek.

Branstad Meets Obama Tuesday

Governor Branstad says he'll press President Obama to issue a disaster declaration along the Missouri River during the president's trip to eastern Iowa. Branstad's scheduled to meet with the president during Obama's visit to Bettendorf today.

Friday, June 24, 2011

New DART GM Expected Monday

Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority officials are expected to name the agency's new general manager at a special meeting Monday. The Des Moines Register reports they have a finalist and are working out the details of a contract. 3 current DART employees made the final 5, including Elizabeth Presutti, chief development officer, and Tom Reynolds, chief operations officer.

Budget Logjam May be Broken

The Iowa Senate approved three spending bills today, and legislative leaders said they are increasingly optimistic passage of a $6 billion state budget is likely next week to avert a possible state government shutdown. The bills passed cover natural resources and agriculture, public safety, and economic development; plus a plan to change the state mental health system. All of it goes to the house.

Not Guilty in Fairgrounds Faucet Theft

A Polk County jury's found the Mingo couple accused of stealing 300-plus water faucets from the Iowa State Fairgrounds not guilty of felony theft. The Des Moines Register reports Michael and Elizabeth Stover testified that the faucets they turned in at a Des Moines scrapyard were payment for stuff they'd sold a Mexican man they only know as 'Hector.'

Police Saturation in Des Moines Metro Tonight

There'll be more police and deputies on Polk County roads tonight. The Central Iowa Traffic Safety Task Force's doing a metro-wide saturation patrol. It's designed to remind drivers of traffic laws, with an emphasis on impaired drivers. The 4th of July holiday is next weekend.

Snow Days Becoming History?

Could snow days be a thing of the past for schools? KCCI reports educators from 93 school districts have been meeting this week to talk about getting more computer based learning into classrooms. It's the digital eCurriculum, and state officials say 4 courses are planned for this fall including algebra, english, physical science and social studies.

Man accused of a tree removal scam

Officials are warning of a scam involving tree removal in a Des Moines neighborhood. A woman says a man named Pat Williams came to the door and gave her his business card claiming he owned Family Tree Service out of Newton. He told her he wanted to pay $475 for the Walnut tree in her back yard. He chopped it down and she still hasn't seen her money. With recent media attention, the man says he'll try to resolve the matter today.

Store cited for selling tobacco to a minor

A convenience store has agreed to the suspension of its tobacco license. The Kum and Go at 6990 Douglas Ave. in Urbandale will have its permit to sell cigarettes suspended for 30 days starting on Sept. 1 after the city council accepted a settlement agreement. The store was cited for its third violation of selling tobacco to a minor on Feb. 24. Store officials will also have to pay a $1,500 fine.

Urbandale to add a new ambulance

Urbandale is getting a new ambulance and they'll spend about $208,000 to do it. A lower bid of $193,000 was rejected because it didn't meet the city's needs and specifications. The new ambulance should be ready in about six months, and it will make the fourth ambulance in the fleet.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

More Budget Agreements?

A state house/senate conference committee's reportedly agreed on two parts of a proposed $6-billion budget. The Des Moines Register says part of it calls for $522-million to fund prisons, the Iowa State Patrol and other public safety programs; outlawing K-2, Salvia and bath salts, making the possession, sale or manufacture an aggravated misdemeanor. Lawmakers are said to be close to agreeing on a public-private partnership for the Iowa Department of Economic Development.

West Glen Town Center Going to Auction

A Polk County Judge's signed a foreclosure order that'll allow parts of West Glen Town Center to be sold at a sheriff’s sale this winter to satisfy a $27 million mortgage debt owed to Midwest Independent Bank of Missouri. The bank sued West Glen and its' owners in February after they defaulted on a $30-million loan for developing phase 2 of the project. A separate court order put the Promenade and Keystone buildings in the development, in receivership.

DuPont Botanical Garden Grant

DuPont's giving $3-million to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Center. DuPont Chair and CEO Ellen Kullman says the money will pay for more learning opportunities on science, plants and water. KCCI reports educational seminars and world-renowned speakers talking about clean water and agriculture will be appearing at the Botanical Garden. The Botanical Garden's expected to draw 140,000 annual visitors downtown.

Mills County Mandatory Evac

Rising flood waters led to a mandatory evacuation order for part of Mills County. The area includes the homes west of I-29 and south of Gaston Avenue to the Fremont County line. According to KCCI, groundwater east of the Missouri River levee's have already made some roads impassable. Residents in the evacuation zone have been ordered to get out by 4p.m. tomorrow at the latest.

Swanson Convicted

Michael Swanson's been convicted of first-degree murder and first-degree robbery for the killing of gas station clerk Sheila Myers last November. He's also charged with killing Vicky Hall, another gas station attendant. KCCI reports the jury took less than an hour to return the verdict.

Wells Fargo branch robbed Wednesday

Police are looking for a bank robber. Aman went into a busy Wells Fargo branch in Des Moines yesterday morning with a gun under his shirt. Tellers at the Wells Fargo on Ingersoll Ave. said he carried a bag and left the bank on foot with the stolen cash. He's described as a thin black man with a goatee, wearing a red shirt and jeans, a black hat and dark glasses. Police are investigating.

State rests in Swanson case

The state wrapped up its case yesterday in the Michael Swanson murder trial in Carroll. Swanson hasn't testified, but the jury did hear his words from last November after the alleged crime, when he said he felt powerful and his adrenaline was pumping. He also admitted to killing convenience store clerk Sheila Myers so she couldn't call police. The defense maintains Swanson was legally insane at the time of the slayings. He's also charged with killing another clerk the same day. That trial is set for July.

Bachman hosts Sunday night event

Republican Michele Bachmann is hosting an event Sunday night in Waterloo that she's inviting all Iowans to. The party happens the night before she makes her formal presidential campaign announcement speech. It starts at 5:30 p.m. at the National Cattle Congress' Electric Park Ballroom.

Students show good progress in proficiency tests

Des Moines students are doing well. School district officials say a higher percentage of students are meeting standards in reading, math and science in state proficiency tests. The overall percentage of Des Moines fourth-, eighth- and 11th-graders who were "proficient" last year on reading, math and science tests is higher than five years ago in every category except fourth- and 11th-grade math.

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Man dies trying to save two children

A man is being called a hero after diving into the Cedar River at Palisades-Kepler State Park near Mount Vernon last Sunday, trying to save two children he had never met. 41-year old Jonathan Paul Jones was fishing from the river bank when he heard screams and saw two children struggling in the water. Family members said Jones pitched his cellphone and wallet and dove in, with his own children standing by. They were able to contact relatives to pick them up after their father didn't surface. The other children in the water were rescued. Jones' body was discovered Monday.

Des Moines Register suffers layoffs

A newspaper publisher is laying off staff, and that affects workers at the Des Moines Register. The Register says 13 employees were laid off Tuesday, primarily in the news department. They do include sports columnist Sean Keeler. Newspaper publisher Gannett Co. is laying off 700 workers nationwide, and it's largest paper, USA Today, appears to have been spared from the cuts.

Boy Scout meeting area damaged

The meeting area of a boy scout troop was targeted by vandals. Police are investigating the incident that left a shed, benches and a small bridge damaged. The vandalism occurred sometime last week, and police have no suspects.

Street closures in effect today for Art Festival

You may find traffic delays as a number of streets close today for the Des Moines Art Festival. Streets closed around the Western Gateway Park include Locust Street from 10th to 16th, and two lanes of Grand Avenue from 11th to 16th. Three are also closures on Ingersoll, 12th, and 13th. The streets won't open until 6am Monday.

Swanson trial underway

During the first day of testimony at the Michael Swanson trial, a witness testified he pointed a 40-caliber handgun about two feet from the face of a convenience store clerk and pulled the trigger. A defense attorney argued during opening statements Monday that Swanson has never known right from wrong and was legally insane when Sheila Myers was killed. Swanson faces life in prison without parole if convicted. He'll stand trial in the death of another convenience store clerk, Vicky Bowman-Hall, in July.



Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Lower Limit for BWI Starts July 1st

A new lower limit for boating while intoxicated goes into effect next week in Iowa. The new limit will be set at .08 blood alcohol level, the same for driving or boating. According to KCCI, if you're charged, the penalty is two days in jail, a $1,000 fine and no boating license for a year. Over the last three summers 63% of Iowa's boating deaths involved alcohol.

State Senate Democrats Move Ahead on Budget

The Iowa Senate's passed spending bills to pay for the departments of the judiciary, economic development, and transportation. Democrats are pushing an almost $6-billion budget package which they'll be sending to the GOP controlled house. There will be 13-spending bills in all. Gov. Branstad says the package is a step in the right direction, but there should be deeper tax cuts and changes to Medicaid funding.

Bye Bye Rebuild Iowa

The Rebuild Iowa office closes Thursday, three years after opening to deal with the 2008 floods. The office was organized to coordinate the state's recovery efforts and helped secure more than $4.3 billion in disaster recovery funding. An office spokesperson tells KCCI, the Rebuild Iowa Office website is expected to remain online for another six months.

World Food Prize Winners

Former presidents of Ghana and Brazil are this year's winners of the World Food Prize for their work to cut by half, the number of people in their countries who suffer from hunger. Former Ghana President John Kufuor and former Brazil President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva will split the $250,000 prize that comes with the honor this fall in Des Moines. Iowa native Norman Borlaug created the prize in 1986 honoring work to ease global hunger. Borlaug who died in 2009, won the 1970 Nobel Peace Prize.

Rain Brings More Flood Warnings

Last night's storms dropped more rain on the region, and the National Weather Service has issued flood warnings for several rivers, including all or parts of the Des Moines River, the east and west forks of the Des Moines River, the Raccoon River, North River and the Chariton River. Police also reported a tornado in Polk County close to midnight, about three miles northwest of Valeria near the Jasper County line.

Des Moines Arts Festival This Weekend

This weekend's the big Des Moines Arts Festival. It runs Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The Des Moines Register reports the event's grown since 1958 to an event that draws 200,000 every year to the Western Gateway. Students from more than 90 metro schools have displayed their work in the Nurturing a Student's Vision program that began in 2002. The International Festivals and Events Association named last year's event the "best festival in the world."

First Swanson Trial Starts

Jury selection was finished, and opening arguments started yesterday in the first trial of Michael Swanson. He's the Minnesota teen charged with killing gas station clerks Vicky Hall and Sheila Myers in robberies last November. This trial concerns Myers killing. . Prosecutors say Swanson knew what he was doing, taking a ski mask, handgun and shotgun when he left his home. His attorney's say Swanson is insane and incapable of realizing his actions.

Son Charged with Killing Mom's Boyfriend

Oskaloosa police say 25-year old Bradley Arterburn's been charged with first degree murder, after they say he used a medieval axe to stab his mothers' boyfriend multiple times Sunday night. 58-year old Robert Horovitz was airlifted from his home to a hospital where he later died. KCCI reports the mother called police, telling them her son had stabbed her boyfriend and then cut himself. Arterburn was taken into custody after being treated.

Oops, Am I in the Wrong Apartment?

25-year old Emanuel Perez is being held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, after police picked him up at Westridge Apartment Complex early yesterday. Police tell WHO they think Perez, who's from Clive walked into an unlocked apartment thinking it was his own and went to bed. A woman and her 2 daughters live there, and a 10-year ran screaming when she saw Perez in her bedroom. Police say Perez appeared confused and intoxicated when they picked him up.


New Home for Bob Brown Chevrolet

There's a ground breaking tomorrow morning for a new Bob Brown Chevrolet location in Urbandale. KCCI reports the $20-million facility's going up in the 3600 block of 111th Street near Douglas and I-80/35. 30 new jobs are expected to be created when the dealership moves into the new 100,000 square foot building. The plans' to have it completed by the spring on neat year.

Monday, June 20, 2011

New Sharon Twister

A National Weather Service team says a tornado hit the town of New Sharon Monday morning. The tornado was classified as an EF1, with 110 mph winds. The tornado hit around 5:05 a.m. and left a 50 yard wide and half a mile long path. KCCI reports no one was hurt during the tornado. Some metro and rural roads were also covered by flash flooding.

Wife Attacks Ex With Car

Des Moines police say a mother tried to run over her child’s father with her car yesterday. 27-year old Jason Owens says he and his wife were arguing over custody of their 3-year old son when his wife backed up her car, knocking him down with an open door, then driving forward and hitting him. She returned later to pick up their son, and tried to run Owens over again. Noone knows where the wife is, but she's wanted for domestic assault with a dangerous weapon and child endangerment.

TallGrass Supermarket Coop

A new grocery store's expected to open in West Des Moines this fall. Tallgrass Grocery's going to be a co-op at Valley Junction, and it will focus on local foods. A member of Tallgrass' Coop Steering committee tells KCCI they want to work with farmer's markets, web-based Iowa Food Co-op, CSA's and locally owned retailers.” Tallgrass hopes to have at least 200 memberships by the end of this month.

Principal resigns over spankings

An elementary school principal we told you about in Mount Vernon has resigned after controversy errupted over birthday spankings. Washington Elementary principal Terry Eisenbarth submitted his resignation Friday night. Mount Vernon police investigated and found no wrongdoing, but parents complained after finding out kids would be called to the office on their birthdays and spanked with a padded stick. Eisenbarth will get $13,500 and benefits through August.

City backs off of erosion control because of budget issues

Des Moines has to scale back erosion control because of high costs. Ravine improvements had been aimed at controlling erosion and curbing damage to roads, sewers, and utilities on the west side, but City Council members have voted to reject all of the bids on the project because they exceeded its budget by hundreds of thousands of dollars. The city hasn't abandoned the project, but they'll start from scratch seeking new bids and altering the design of the project.

Monday starts off stormy

Storms moving through much of Iowa have been a concern so far today. More than 1200 MidAmerican Energy customers in the Des Moines area were without power around 6am today. Some water pooled in roadways and parking lots and Des Moines police had to keep drivers out with barricades. The National Weather Service said by 4am, 2 to 4 inches of rain had fallen in some areas. Despite the stormy start to the day, things should clear out this afternoon.

New traffic signals have flashing yellow arrows

Those in charge of traffic flow are always looking for ways to keep traffic moving, and now a new trend is coming to Des Moines. In three spots around the city, you'll see new traffic lights at left turns. There's a new flashing yellow arrow. That means drivers can turn after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians. The city says it will allow drivers to move quicker through the intersection and it will also increase safety. The lights are located on Merle Hay and Madison, Merle Hay and Hickman and Indianola Avenue and Watrous. More lights like this are expected in the coming months.

Sunday, June 19, 2011

new train hub

Flooding of the Missouri River in the Western part of the state is making Des Moines the popular railroad hub. Officials say four to eight additional freight trains are being rerouted through the Capital city's downtown during the evening and overnight hours.

fema funding

Iowa communities will share nearly 15-million dollars in FEMA grants to make storm repairs. The grants were given to the communities of Des Moines and Lake View, as well as the Corn Belt Power Cooperative, the Nishna-botna Valley Rural Rural Electric Cooperative, the Raccoon Valley Electric Cooperative and the Western Iowa Power Cooperative.

Friday, June 17, 2011

Another Hamburg Levee Seeping

Water has seeped through a second levee built to protect Hamburg from flooding from the Missouri River. KCCI reports this levee's on the southern edge of town and public works crews are working on it. Hamburg Mayor Cathy Crain says it's holding well and not in danger. Levee seepage isn't unusual, and can be fixed.

Branstad No Budget No Contingency Plan

Gov. Branstad's office today was supposed to release details on the state contingency plan if there's no budget by July 1st. What they released were 84 pages of documents and over 100 emails, most of them media clips and press releases mentioning the word 'shutdown.' A Branstad spokesperson says there's no contingency plan for not having a budget, but the governor does have broad powers to keep government running if there's no budget.

Wells Fargo Not Offering New Reverse Mortgages

Des Moines based Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is getting out of the reverse mortgage business. They allow homeowners 62 and up to convert the equity in their home into cash. Reverse mortgages have come under fire for high upfront fees and other problems. Wells Fargo says it's concerned seniors may not be able to maintain home ownership, unpredictable home values, and federal rules that don't let banks determine if a customer can afford property taxes and other expenses. A handful of jobs in Iowa will be cut.

Reward offered in train derailment case

A $10,000 reward is being offered in the rail swith tampering case near Menlo. Authorities say the switch was tampered with in an effort to derail a train last Sunday. Iowa Interstate Railroad is offering the money for information that leads to a conviction.

Rides available to the State Fair

Getting to the State Fair may be easier this year. The Iowa State Fair and Windstar Lines have formed the State Fair Express, which will provide round-trip rides to the fair from 46 Iowa locations. The fair is set for Aug. 11- 21, and bus schedules are listed for the first 10 days.

To sign up, call (888) 494-6378 during business hours.

Residents recover after Willow Park Apt fire

On Wedneday, residents of the Willow Park Apartments in south Des Moines were helping each other survive. Yesterday, that turned to a recovery effort. The building contained about 30 units, all of which have been destroyed because of smoke and water damage. Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the fire, but they know it started on the third floor. Neighbors have been giving displaced residents a place to stay and a place to store what they could salvage.

How would Iowa handle a goverment shutdown?

What happens if state government shuts down? Governor Terry Branstad is releasing contingency plans today, telling us how the state would handle a possible shutdown July 1. Minnesota released their contingency plans this week, the proposed to close all parks, the state zoo, lottery, and road projects. Even though Brandstad is releasing Iowa's plans, he continues to express confidence that budget matters will be resolved before the deadline.

Barn needs a permit to be moved

Many wanted the barn on the Valley High School campus in West Des Moines to be historically preserved. They didn't get their way this week when the West Des Moines school district voted to sell it for $1 to a church that will use it as a storage facility. Valley Church must still get a foundation permit from the city's Board of Adjustment at it's June 29th meeting before the building can be moved.

Cell Towers New Target of Copper Thieves

Thieves after copper wiring have found a new target. Des Moines Police tell KCCI they're hitting cell towers. Two towers on East Douglas were stripped of their copper early yesterday, and it happened at another tower on County LIne Road a couple of weeks ago. Scrap dealers say copper's now selling for $3 and $4 per pound, and they have no way to know if what they're buying was stolen.

Reward for Railroad Switch Box Tampering

Iowa Interstate Railroad's now offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the person or persons responsible for tampering with a railroad switch box west of Menlo. A railroad spokesperson tells KCCI the consequences of a train derailing because of the tampering could've been devastating--ethanol is moved on their tracks in that area. If you know something sent the information to (319) 298-5405 or to MenloReward@IASRR.com.

Express Bus to State Fair from Des Moines

If you want a ride to the Iowa State Fair from Des Moines, The Iowa Fair and Windstar Lanes have formed the State Fair Express, a service that will provide round-trip rides to the fair from 46 locations statewide for the Fair in August. According to the Des Moines Register each bus ticket includes admission, a fair coupon book. Ticket prices will vary by location - adult tickets run from $22 to $50 - and reservations can be made up to one week in advance.

Polk County ID Theft Ring Bust

Four Texas men were busted at a Budget Inn in unincorporated Des Moines, caught with stolen credit cards and thousands of dollars of fraudulently purchased gift cards. The Polk County Sheriff, working with Urbandale and Ankeny Police arrested 26-year old Donald Sterling, 27-year old Courtland Turner, 26-year old Kelso Strawther, and 27-year old Irri Young on charges including possession of stolen property, forgery, identity theft, and narcotics possession.

Polk County ID Theft Ring

Four Texas men were busted at a Budget Inn in unincorporated Des Moines, caught with stolen credit cards and thousands of dollars of fraudulently purchased gift cards. The Polk County Sheriff, working with Urbandale and Ankeny Police arrested 26-year old Donald Sterling, 27-year old Courtland Turner, 26-year old Kelso Strawther, and 27-year old Irri Young on charges including possession of stolen property, forgery, identity theft, and narcotics possession.

Express Bus Service For Iowa State Fair

If you want a ride to the Iowa State Fair from Des Moines, The Iowa Fair and Windstar Lanes have formed the State Fair Express, a service that will provide round-trip rides to the fair from 46 locations statewide for the Fair in August. According to the Des Moines Register each bus ticket includes admission, a fair coupon book. Ticket prices will vary by location — adult tickets run from $22 to $50 — and reservations can be made up to one week in advance.

Reward Offered for Menlo Railroad Switch Tampering

Iowa Interstate Railroad's now offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the person or persons responsible for tampering with a railroad switch box west of Menlo. A railroad spokesperson tells KCCI the consequences of a train derailing because of the tampering could've been devastating--ethanol is moved on their tracks in that area. If you know something sent the information to (319) 298-5405 or to MenloReward@IASRR.com.

Copper Thieves Hitting Cell Towers

Thieves after copper wiring have found a new target. Des Moines Police tell KCCI they're hitting cell towers. Two towers on East Douglas were stripped of their copper early yesterday, and it happened at another tower on County LIne Road a couple of weeks ago. Scrap dealers say copper's now selling for $3 and $4 per pound, and they have no way to know if what they're buying was stolen.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Fort Des Moines Master Plan

There's a meeting August 1st to get public comment on a proposed master plan for Fort Des Moines Park. It'll be that evening at 6:30 at the Fort Des Moines Museum and Education Center, 75 E. Army Post Road in Des Moines. Polk County Conservation staff will ask the public for feedback on elements of the park’s master plan. Those who cannot attend the public meeting can fill out an online survey at www.leadingyououtdoors.org.

Dems Plan to Push Their Own State Budget

With no progress on the state budget, democrats in the state senate say they will pass their own state budget plan next week. Sen. Bob Dvorsky, heads of the Senate Appropriations Committee, says plans are in place beginning Monday to assemble a Democratic budget that can be approved and sent to the House, which is controlled by Republicans. Lawmakers have no new negotiating sessions planned.

U.S. Senate Votes to Kill Ethanol Subsidy

The U.S. Senate's voted to repeal tax credits for producing ethanol, a vote that budget cutters hope will demonstrate a growing appetite in Congress to end special interest tax breaks to help reduce government borrowing. The vote repeals the $5 billion annual subsidy. The tax credit, due to expire at the end of the year, provided 45 cents per gallon to oil refiners who mix ethanol with gasoline.

Des Moines Gets New Associate School Superintendent

Thomas Ahart's been named an associate superintendent for the Des Moines school district. He's currently principal of Warren G. Harding Middle School, and working to finish his doctorate in education leadership from Drake University. In his new job, Ahart will be focused on teaching and learning, specifically learning functions, curriculum, assessment and various education programs like special education and gifted and talented

Des Moines Magazine Publisher Cuts Jobs

Meredith Corp., the Des Moines-based publisher of Ladies' Home Journal and Better Homes and Gardens, is cutting 75 jobs nationwide, and ending publication of its ReadyMade magazine. KCCI reports the layoffs include 20-people in Des Moines. CEO Steve Lacy says the cuts will let the company to devote more resources to key initiatives, including digital.

Roof collapses at Irina's

Recent heavy rains have taken their toll on an Urbandale restaurant. The roof at Irina's Restaurant has caved in and that could close the restaurant most of the summer. The restaurant went through a long process to get a liquor license after moving to Urbandale, and it was turning into a popular spot. Ongoing roof repairs were happening, and the owner says the contractor didn't cover it properly.

Teens suspected in beauty supply store robbery

Mid-K Beauty Supply on University Avenue was robbed yesterday, and two teenage girls are suspects. A witness confronted the teens and confronted them about concealing items in a purse, according to police. One of the teens was calm and told the other teen to surrender it. She didn't and started swinging her purse and hit someone, then pulled out a box cutter. She eventually dropped it and ran. Police are still looking for the girls.

House vandalized, spray painted

32-year old Raymond King found words spray painted on his walls when he returned home yesterday. "Got ya" and "You lose" were among the phrases painted on doors, wall, furniture, and cabinets. The house had been ransacked with drawers pulled out and flipped over. Electronics were on the floor. Detectives are checking on motives, but so far no arrests have been made. The house is in the 800 block of Pioneer Road. An empty can of black spray paint was found on the bathroom floor.

Pella pool responds to drownings with new rules

Two teenagers drowned last year in Pella at the aquatic center, and this summer they've implemented surprise safety drills for life guards and swimming restrictions for children. Many pool managers say they have these restrictions, but Pella goes a step further where life guards will be secretly video taped while on duty. And twice a week a toddler sized dummy will be placed in the pool and life guards will have to reach it within 20 seconds.

Ankeny Regional Airport Grant

Ankeny Regional Airport's gotten a $1.2-million federal grant to buy land to improve safety on one of their runways. The Des Moines Register reports the crosswinds landing strip at the airport is 4,200 feet, but only 3,855 feet is currently usable because the airport does not own enough open land at the end. The grant will provide partial reimbursement to the airport for 24.5 acres for the project.

Flores Gets Bond

A Polk County judge's set bond yesterday at $500,000 for David Flores, who's been man granted a new trial in a 1996 murder case in Des Moines. Flores was convicted of killing a woman during a rolling gun battle between rival gangs. Flores was sentenced to life, but he's waiting to see if the Iowa Supreme Court will interfere with a lower court decision granting a new trial.

New Hamburg Levee Could be Tested Today

Work on a secondary levee to protect Hamburg from Missouri River flooding was due to be completed last night, although it could be two months for the city’s battle against high water is over. Floodwaters are expected to reach the foot of the protective barrier sometime today, a day later than an earlier forecast. The Army Corp of Engineers tells the Des Moines Register the floodwaters' expected to crest about a foot below the top of the new levee.

Deadline Coming for New State Budget

Iowa state government could run out of money, and be forced to shutdown in a couple of weeks if lawmakers don't pass a budget by July 1. Tension in the statehouse is mounting over the fast-approaching deadline. The state can't spend a dime after July 1 unless state lawmakers vote for it. According to KCCI, The statehouse says no budget means state troopers could be cut back, state parks could close and state workers could go without paychecks.

Apartment Complex Fire

Des Moines fire crews spent several hours battling a fire at Willow Park Apartments complex at 6512 Chaffee Road. About 35 firefighters and a dozen trucks responded to the scene. Officials think it started in the attic of a corner apartment of the three story building. WOI TV reports everyone got out of the building safe and is accounted for.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Broadlawns Gets New Palm Scanners for Patients

Starting next week, Broadlawns Medical Center will start keeping track of patients with technology new hand palm scanners.
Next Wednesday, the medical records of patients will be callled up using PatientSecure palm scanners. Broadlawns the first hospital in the state to use the scanners, and one of only twelve in the nation using them. The hospital's installing 35 palm scanners at a cost of $90,000.

Polk Youth Shelter Closing

Polk County's expanding its juvenile detention program when the county’s 102-year-old youth shelter closes at the end of the month. The change will boost the county’s capacity for juvenile detention beds from 33 to 44.. The Des Moines Register Reports noone's sure where the 18-young people there now will be going when the shelter closes, but a county spokesperson says they won't be out on the street.

Des Moines a Top City for Families in U.S.

Parenting magazine's ranked Des Moines #5 on its list of best cities in the country for families. KCCI reports the rankings are based on great schools, affordable homes, low crime, jobs and parkland. The article says " ... Des Moines ranks in the Top 10 for both education and health, offering kids the opportunity to experience city life in the midst of America's farmland.

DM Police Justified in Shooting Credit Union Robbery Suspect

An internal investigation's found Des Moines police were justified in opening fire on a suspect last month after the robbery of a credit union and a carjacking. The Des Moines Register reports officers opened fire on 28-year old James Brooks when he alleged drove a stolen van at them last month. The 4 officers involved are off administrative leave and back on duty. Brooks faces multiple counts including attempted murder and robbery and is being held without bond.

David Flores Gets Bond

A judge has set bond at $500,000 for David Flores. The ruling also says that unless otherwise ordered by the Iowa Supreme Court, Flores will be entitled to a new trial for first-degree murder. Flores was convicted of the 1996 murder of Phyllis Davis, who was caught in a shootout between rival gangs in Des Moines. KCCI reports Flores was granted a new trial after it was found that Flores defense didn't have access to evidence pointing to another gunman.

Inmate missing

Prison inmate Daniel Avery has been reported as escaped after he didn't return from work release Sunday in Des Moines. The Iowa Department of Corrections says Avery is serving a 15-year sentence for robbery, assault and other convictions out of Polk County.

Racetrack gets new lease

The Prairie Meadows lease has been approved after the old one expired December 31. The nearly 8-year lease with the Racetrack and Casino will mean about $26 million in annual revenue for Polk County for the next three years and possibly more after that. Polk County owns the land. The racetrack-casino is operated by a nonprofit board.

Police could use technology to read license plates

Des Moines police are looking into technology that would read license plates on passing vehicles to help officers find suspects and stolen cars. This would be part of an overall effort to use technology to the police department's benefit. The license plate recognition systems would be added to red-light cameras and mobile automated speed enforcement. City Council has given the police department the okay to request proposals from vendors for license plate readers for one patrol car and one vehicle in the parking enforcement unit.


Search continues for missing Mt. Pleasant woman

A Mount Pleasant woman disappeared over three weeks ago and family and friends are still baffled. 24-year old Jackie Douthart was last seen May 21, and those around her think she's a victim of foul play. Her mother says she was headed into down to get something to drink, and that's the last she knew. Police haven't reported any suspects and aren't releasing any information until it's concrete. Family and friends have conducted several searches on their own.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Neiderbach Negligence Lawsuit

The adoptive parents of a severely brain-damaged child have filed a malpractice suit against Mercy Medical Center and two doctors they claim missed signs of abuse. Dr. Lynn Lindaman, Dr. Scott Barron and others are accused of negligence and recklessness for not asking more questions when Ethan Neiderbach arrived at their Emergency Room with a broken arm in June of 2009. The boys father's been convicted of child endangerment, and the mother's doing 20-years on a guilty plea to child endangerment.

Lake Red Rock Rising

The Army Corps of Engineers says recent heavy rain's raised the level of Lake Red Rock near Knoxville. The lake level this morning was 769.3 feet and is expected to hit 774 feet by Sunday. The inflow and more rain in the forecast mean officials are considering increasing the outflow from the dam over the next several days. KCCI reports plans call for a release of 30,000 cfs if the pool rises to 775 feet, which could mean some downstream flooding.

Broadway Project

Recreation lovers will be able to connect to the Neal Smith Trail north of Polk City now that a 5-foot bike lane's almost done. The Des Moines Register reports the new trail's part of a larger Broadway project, which should be finished by the end of the month. From Parker Boulevard to Big Creek State Park, you'll notice Broadway's been widened, and there are sidewalks The street's now 24 feet wide. Curb, gutter, and turn lanes have also were installed.

Flores Bail Decision Expected Soon

A Polk County judge's expected to decide by the end of the week if David Flores will be freed on bond while waiting for a new trial in a 1996 murder case. Flores was convicted of killing a woman during a rolling gunbattle between rival gangs in Des Moines. He was sentenced to life. Prosecutors says bail should wait until after the Iowa Supreme Court decides if it'll grant the state's request for further review.



WDM School Board Approves Maplenol Barn Sale

The West Des Moines School Board's given its blessing to selling the historic Maplenol Dairy Barn for $1 to the Valley Evangelical Free Church. The church plans to make the barn a part of a planned expansion. Until the West Des Moines Board of Adjustments decides whether to approve the church’s proposed foundation, the 79-year-old barn will stay at its current location at Valley High School.

Polk County and Prairie Meadows Agree on New Lease

Polk County Supervisors have signed off on a new 7-year 7 month lease agreement with Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino. The county will get $15.6 million a year in rent and $10.4 million in each of the first three years. Prairie Meadows will pay property taxes in excess of $4.5 million. KCCI reports money from the lease will pay for bonds for the Iowa Events Center, infrastructure, economic development grants, and support non-profit groups.

Tea Party campaign kicks off

You may be seeing a lot of the Tea Party in the coming weeks. Iowa Tea Party activists kicked off an 18-city, statewide tour last night with the goal of influencing the 2012 Iowa caucuses. Issues at the forefront include a balanced budget and tax reform. Organizers expect appearances during the three-week journey by at least five Republicans running for president. The tour stops in Des Moines July 2.

Franklin Field plans move forward

More than a dozen people voiced their concerns to the Des Moines City Council last night about the future of Franklin Field. There are two acres of green space off Franklin and 52nd in northwest Des Moines, right next to the community garden and trail, and part of Glendale Cemetery. A proposal is on the table for low-income housing for seniors there. The city council had to vote on if this land was considered "excess," meaning it could be sold off. There was much discussion, but the council decided it was excess, which allows the senior community to move forward.

Burglars target places outside the home

Urbandale police are warning of a burglary ring that targets gyms and employers, and involves several states. Police say in a news release that the Des Moines metro area has been hit at least twice in the past six weeks by the burglary ring. Police say residents should take all their valuables with them or leave them at home when going to the gym or even going to work.
Anyone who sees something suspicious should call police immediately.

Search continues for missing man last seen in the river

Authorities have resumed the search for the body 23-year old Dax Bell. He's the man who jumped into the Des Moines River after a crash on Interstate 235 Saturday. He fled from the accident scene and jumped into the river. Bell was seen struggling in the water and then going under. He's believed to have drowned. Des Moines Police Sgt. Chris Scott says the search for Bell's body will continue all week

Man may be released while awaiting new trial

A Polk County judge will decide soon if David Flores will be released on bond. Flores was granted a new trial in a 1996 murder case, and while he waits for it he could be released. He was convicted of killing Phyllis Davis during a rolling gunbattle between rival gangs in Des Moines and was sentenced to life in prison.

Monday, June 13, 2011

Polk City Bond Vote

The Polk City Council's expected to wait until July to take a final vote on a proposed ordinance for $9-million in new bond debt for water and sewer improvements and to refinance most of Polk City's existing utilities debt. According to the Ledger, the city's waiting for a bond rating, which will determine how much interest the city will have to pay investors over the 30-year life of the proposed issue. The vote's expected to now come up for a vote at their July 11th meeting.

Maplenol Barn Sale Vote Expected Tonight

The West Des Moines school board's expected to vote tonight on selling the Maplenol Barn new Valley High School. Valley Church wants to buy the barn, move it, renovate it; and make it part of their expansion plans. KCCI reports School administrators are expected to recommend that the board approve the sale of the barn for $1.

More Missouri Flood Closures

Iowa DOT says expect the I-29/680 intersection near Loveland to close soon because of floodwaters from the Missouri River. It's Exit 13B from I-680 west to I-29 north. A DOT spokesperson tell KCCI when the interchange floods, it also will close I-680 west- and east from near Beebeetown to the interchange, and I-29 south- and north from the interchange to Missouri Valley.

Levee Breach

The Army of Corps of Engineers reports a Missouri River levee south of Hamburg's finally given way. The water's not expected to hit town for the next couple of days, but the Des Moines Register reports almost 1000 people have left Fremont County, and officials don't think anyone's still in the area that's expected to get water. The breach's led the state to close a couple of roads: I-29, from the Iowa 2 interchange to the U.S. 136 interchange; and all of Iowa/Missouri 333.

Des Moines council to consider bike path funds

Des Moines may get another street with designated bike lanes. Last year, Des Moines re-striped several blocks of Ingersoll by reducing it from four lanes to three and adding bike lanes. The same plans are in the works for Hubbell Avenue. City Council will vote today to ask the Department of Transportation for the funds for Hubbell Avenue. The project is estimated at $390,000. The city hopes the DOT will pay for all but $60,000. This corridor is one of the priority spots for the city's master bicycle and trail plan.

Man dies after Sunday night traffic accident

An accident shortly after 11:30pm last night claimed the life of a 58-year old Wellsburg man. Richard Leroy England suffered fatal injuries in the wreck on Interstate 35 in northern Polk County. The early investigation reveals it may have been a UPS semi truck that England was driving when he lost control and veered off the roadway. He died at Mercy Medical Center.

New companies not coming to Iowa as quickly as the US overall

US Census data shows businesses owned by women in Iowa is growing at the slowest pace in the nation. Women-owned businesses grew by 20 percent between 2002 and 2007 nationwide, but in Iowa the pace was more like 3.8 percent. Experts say this could be due to a Midwest aversion to risk. Fewer people start companies, and the ratio of female-owned companies is even further divided. Overall, Iowa ranks 42nd for it's increase in companies.

Des Moines man finds valuable gem

A Des Moines man who visited Arkansas over Memorial Day weekend made a pretty rare discovery. Troy Smith was spending the weekend at the Crater of Diamonds State Park near Murfreesboro, Arkansas, which lets visitors take screens of dirt and sift for gems. Smith found a 1.97 carat diamond. It's the fourth largest diamond found at the park this year. And it's finder's keepers. No word yet on how Smith plans to use it.

City Council to consider YWCA demolition

Des Moines City Council has been taking bids to demolish the YWCA and they'll vote today on what to do. The city received just two bids to demolish the vacant building at 717 Grand Ave. The bids were an average of $572,315 over the city engineer's $1.65 million project estimate. Because of that, the council is expected to toss both bids and start from scratch. They'll still likely tear the building down, but maybe the won't excavate or refill the basement. Officials want to redevelop the site so the taxes can be a source of revenue.

Friday, June 10, 2011

Flood Warning for Area Rivers

The National Weather Service's issued a flood warning for the Raccoon River in and around Polk County and all or parts of the Des Moines, Middle and North rivers. The warnings are in effect until tomorrow. On the Raccoon from Van Meter, in Dallas County, to Walnut Creek. The Middle River-for the Indianola area, where it's expected to overflow its' banks. The Des Moines River--from Clear Creek near Tracy to the Middle Avery Creek near Chillicothe.

Polk County Digital Flood Mapping Delayed

New digital maps showing where flooding is most likely to occur in Polk County have been delayed until at least 2014. Planning for the new Polk County maps began in 2005, a year FEMA started a project to try to use advances in mapping technology to better identify areas susceptible to flooding. A series of policy shifts have followed at FEMA and other agencies. One of the shifts involves flood modeling and how levees would hold up.

Federal Judge to Approve Wells Fargo Sex Discrimination Case Settlement

A federal judge says she'll sign off on a $32 million settlement of a sex discrimination case against Wells Fargo. The Business Record reports Wells Fargo will have to run a 4-year program to improve training and promotion of female financial advisers, and make sure more lucrative customer accounts are allocated fairly. The company will also have to operate under the watch of an outside monitor. The deal covers 1200 female employees.

Man Beaten Up Over Truck

Be careful buying a truck from the ex-girlfriend of a man in prison. Des Moines Police say that's what got Steve White clotheslined off his motorcycle earlier this week. KCCI reports the 48-year old tells police a Hot Rods Harley employee knocked him off his bike and beat him up, as an example, for buying his truck from his ex. White says he offered to give the guy back the truck, but got beat up anyway. White's in serious condition with a broken nose, a gash over one eye, back and neck injuries.

Copper taken from Ankeny roof

Copper theives have taken the metal right off of the air conditioners on the roof of an Ankeny stripmall. Several businesses at the stripmall on Southeast Delaware Avenue in Ankeny were robbed Monday night, and had to deal with the heat earlier this week without air conditioning. Several stores closed because of it. The rooftop is 20 feet off the ground, and the strip mall's owner said the theives must have wanted the copper pretty badly. Police are investigating.

Flooding to cause detour near Council Bluffs

It looks like the rising Missouri River will force the closure of a strectch of Interstate 29 north of Council Bluffs in western Iowa. The Iowa Transportation Department says it will be closing I-29 from milepost 55 on the north edge of Council Bluffs to the I-29 interchange with Interstate 680, about 12 miles away. They'll have a detour will be set up taking traffic to the I-680-Interstate 80 interchange.

East Village cracks down on late night noise

The Locust Tap tavern in Des Moines' East Village is drawing attention for its noise. Noise complaints date to at least October 2009, and most agree the solution is as simple as keeping the front door closed. The regular noise complaints gave the City Council cause to reject the owner's routine request for an outdoor service permit to coincide with this weekend's Capital City Pride festival. An East Village neighborhood meeting is scheduled for June 23rd to talk more about it.

Teacher retires after 51 years

A teacher with a 51-year career is stepping down. Chemistry teacher Freida Griffin says at age 81, it's time to retire. She began her career in Pleasantville and moved to Des Moines with her husband in 1964. She taught for 17 years at the former Kurtz Junior High School, which is now Lincoln South, then for 11 years at McCombs Middle School. She's been a substitute teacher for the past 19 years at McCombs, Weeks, Callanan and Brody middle schools and Roosevelt and Lincoln high schools.

Des Moines sets record for rainfall

Des Moines set a record in the past day, receiving 4.53 inches of rain in 24 hours. The old record set back in 1984 was shattered, That stood at 2.2 inches in a 24-hour period. Several roads in the metro have reported flash flooding, and you may still find some closures and delays.

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Cities Not Liking GOP Tax Cuts for Business

The state GOP plan to cut commercial and industrial property taxes by 25% over 5 years has some city governments', including Des Moines, crying foul. Local governments say this plan would force them into a bad choice: higher residential property taxes or deep cuts in critical services. The Des Moines Register says the tax cuts would lower state revenue by $347 million at the end of 5 years, and another $14-million in revenue reductions.

Tingle Pleads Guilty, Gets Deferred Sentence

Former Warren County Attorney Brian Tingle plead guilty today to drug possession charges. The 44-year old got a deferred judgment and was put on probation for one year. He must complete a substance abuse treatment program, undergo random drug testing and complete 200 hours of community service.

Missouri Flooding May Be With Us For a While

Hundreds out of their homes because of possible Missouri River flooding may not be get back home until late summer. The river's set to reach peak flows within days but won't get back to normal until September as officials manage overflowing reservoirs. KCCI reports the timeline has even veteran river-town residents resigned. They're packing to last all summer.

Gingrich Staying Despite Staffers Quitting

Newt Gingrich says he's staying in the race for the GOP presidential nomination despite the mass resignations of a number of his senior staff. KCCI reports Gingrich's campaign manager, senior strategists and key aides in early primary and caucus states, including Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina, have walked. CBS news is reporting that the move may signal a possible presidential bid by Texas Gov. Rick Perry.

Nebraska Assistant track coach found dead

The NCAA track championships are underway today. Nebraska Assistant Coach Mark Colligan is on the minds of many today after passing away yesterday. He was found unresponsive in his Des Moines hotel room.

Maplenol Barn may go to a church

What to do with that barn on the Valley High campus in West Des Moines....Monday, administrators will recommend the barn be sold to Valley Church for $1. If the recommendation is approved Monday, the barn would be used as a storage facility on the church's 35-acres campus at Fuller and Mills Civic Parkway. The district would spend $67,500 to move the building and the church would provide the foundation.

DART accepting input on new GM

Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority General Manager Brad Miller is leaving for a job in Florida at the end of this month. Transit officials are open to input as they look for his replacement. Finalists for his replacement will be interviewed the week of June 20, and in the meantime you can share comments via www.surveymonkey.com.

Lawmakers working to avoid shutdown

State lawmakers are still trying to hammer out a budget bill. Republicans and Democrats exchanged jabs yesterday, each accusing the other of gunning for a goverment shutdown. That would likely take effect July 1st if lawmakers can't reach a compromise. That would close state offices and close state parks, not to mention put thousands out of work.

A Couple of Heavy Rains Could Bring Flooding to Des Moines

While families and officials react to flooding in western Iowa, some forecasters are sounding an alarm: all it would take is a few good rains to bring flooding to Des Moines. The National Weather Service is keeping an eye on the Saylorville Reservoir and the Des Moines River. While forecasters say the river basin and lake can handle a couple of inch rain, if we get a couple of those in a row, all bets are off. The Weather Service says there's a 40% chance June will end up wetter than usual. Top flood officials from all over the state met last night at the Des Moines Botanical Center to talk about flood preparedness.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Regents Agree to Raises at U of I, ISU, and UNI

The state Board of Regents has agreed to pay raises of between .5 and 4.5% for non-union faculty and staff at the state’s three public universities. The raises were approved despite the Governor's proposal cutting 6% from the higher education. U of I faculty and professional and scientific staff will see pay increases of 2 to 4%. ISU will see raises of .5%. UNI professional and service salaries would climb 2.25% July 1, and 1.25% next January.

Regents Approve Work at ISU

The state Board of Regents has approved building a new ISU football training facility, and renovation of the school’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences building. The $20.6 million football facility will be paid for through bonds and private money. A $12 million renovation of Curtiss Hall will create a student services mall, a commons area and will modernize classrooms and offices. The project will be paid for with $7 million in private donations.

State House Approves Budget

The Iowa House passed a new state budget this afternoon. KCCI reports the House started debate on the budget almost four weeks after lawmakers were expected to adjourn the session. Representatives discussed and voted on a number of amendments including changes to commercial and property taxes. The Senate still hasn't voted on a budget for the next fiscal year.

Wells Fargo Offering Fixed Rate Student Loans

Wells Fargo's taking a step away from the rest of the pack, and is offering fixed rate student loans. KCCI reports Wells Fargo's fixed rate student loans will run from 7.75 and 14.25%, depending on the credit score of the applicant and/or cosigner, usually a parent. Wells Fargo's fixed rates are higher than the 6.8% rate charged on most federal student loans. Federal loans also offer safeguards that do not come with private student loans.

Valley Church CLose to Getting Maplenol Barn

West Des Moines school administrators are going to recommend Monday that the district sell the Maplenol Barn to Valley Church for $1. The Board of Education's expected to act on that recommendation when they meet that night. The Des Moines Register reports the recommendation's being made because the church is a long-standing community organization, has the money for the project, and is willing to oversee the long-term operation of the barn once it is moved.

Board of Regents to discuss salaries today

The Iowa Board of Regents is meeting to discuss the search for the next president at Iowa State, plus salary policies for non-union workers and the state budget stalemate. They'll meet today in Iowa City. They are expected to consider approving salary policies for the state's three public universities that would give non-union employees raises generally averaging 3%.

Cooler weather coming

The average temperature this time of year is in the 80's, but several towns in Iowa reported reaching 100 in the past few days. Des Moines has seen unseasonalbe highs in the mid 90's, but things should begin cooling down after today. Thursday and Friday we'll be back in the 70s.

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Des Moines Mobile Speed Camera

Des Moines police are making public where their mobile speed camera will be. Tomorrow the 1500 block East Euclid Avenue (westbound) Thursday, 800 block Hwy 65 Bypass (westbound) and Friday, 1800 block Beaver Avenue (southbound). The Des Moines Register reports the Police department will have the locations of the mobile speed device on its Facebook page every Thursday or Friday.

Cumming's Targets Going Green

The Des Moines Business Record reports the town of Cumming's hosting an event challenging itself to be Iowa's first 'green city' by 2020. Congressman Leonard Boswell and Greater Des Moines Partnership President and CEO Martha Willits will speak at the event, tomorrow from 4 to 8p.m. at Egnacio's Hall in Cumming.
Ludwig and Associates Inc. will exhibit its plan to the public.

One of the Metro's Most Wanted Behind Bars

A man on the Metro’s Most Wanted list is behind bars. 52-year old Scott Austin was arrested this morning by U.S. Marshals and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at a local motel. The Des Moines Register reports Austin's now in the Polk County Jail on $120,000 bond. He's faces narcotics charges including manufacturing and possession of methamphetamine.

Budget Talks Progress?

The Iowa Senate and House are close to a compromise on spending about $1.5 billion on state health and human services programs for the coming fiscal year. State Sen. Jack Hatch, a Des Moines Democrat, chairs the Senate Health and Human Services Budget Committee, and says the two sides are close on money, but still have some differences. Among them: women’s health programs, health care cost containment, and health care for low-income, underinsured and the uninsured.

Construction company fined for safety violations

An Iowa construction company has been fined $14,000 for safety violations in a January accident that killed a worker at the University of Iowa campus. One citation was issued that listed six serious violations. Iowa Bridge and Culvert, Inc., of Washington was also cited in 2009 and was fined $5400 in that incident. Kevin Hammons, of Washington, was working to restore Art Building West on the UI arts campus when a steel beam fell on top of him.

Jethro's sandwich loses ESPN contest

Remember the monster sandwich we told you about that was in the running for ESPN's Fanwich contest? The Emmenecker sandwich at Jethro's BBQ was named after the point guard who helped take Drake University to the 2008 NCAA Tournament. It didn't quite get enough votes to win the contest and lost out to a sandwich from a San Francisco deli named after Giants' pitcher Matt Cain. The Des Moines sandwich got almost three thousand likes on Facebook though.

Measles threat appears to be over

Last month there was some concern about Des Moines residents who may have been exposed to measles after being near a baby boy who brought the disease back from India. Fifteen or twenty Iowans had to isolate themselves at home if they couldn't show they had been vaccinated. Now the health department reports the quarantine has been lifted and no new cases have popped up. The boy in Dallas County had a relatively mild case, according to his pediatrician, and is expected to be okay.

Tea Party candidates to be part of bus tour

Five Republican presidential hopefuls have signed on for the Iowa Tea Party Bus Tour this summer: Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, Newt Gingrich, Gary Johnson and Rick Santorum. The three-week bus tour and will make stops in 20 cities starting June 13 in Council Bluffs. It's the first in Iowa for the Tea Party movement and ends July 2 in Des Moines.

Monday, June 6, 2011

State Budget Stalemate

The Statehouse budget dispute is hardening with both parties trying to build support for their positions rather than bargaining for a compromise. Gov. Branstad says he'll start a 43-city tour to build support for a deal he reached with House GOP leaders. Branstad want's an overall budget of under $6 billion. Democrats want to spend more on schools. The state's expected to end the fiscal year with about $1 billion in reserves.

Urbandale Track Coach Charged with Sexually Exploiting a Minor

Urbandale police have charged an assistant girls’ track coach for sexual exploitation of a minor. The Des Moines Register reports 33-year old Chad Ziesman, 33, of Urbandale was arrested Friday after turning himself in. The investigation started when a 14-year-old girl told staff at Urbandale Middle School she'd gotten inappropriate texts and email from Ziesman. An investigating officer says the messages were sexually explicit.

Des Moines Police Have to Tase Man In Traffic

Des Moines police arrested 43-year old Ronnel Beechum early this morning after watching him interrupting traffic outside the Kum N Go in the 2200 block of University Avenue. Police tell KCCI Beechum hit an officer who tried to pat him down for weapons, and had to be tased to get him into cuffed. Beechum had a glass pipe and a container with 33-blue pills. He told police the pills were morhpine. Among the charges against him: narcotics possession with intent, and assaulting a police officer.

Mom Catches Son Huffing and Beats Him Up

Des Moines Police arrested 45-year Tina Flatt after they say she beat up her son last night. Police say a neighbor tipped her off that her son was huffing a chemical air duster in her apartment. KCCI reports she went into the apartment, and tackled her son then started beating him up and trashing the apartment. She's charged with burglary, harassment and domestic violence. Officers noticed a strong odor of alcohol and gave Flatt a breathalyser. She blew a .155.

Disaster recovery office closing

Even though concerns about flooding are growing, the office that coordinated the state's recovery from the historic flood and tornado disasters of 2008 is going out of business. The Rebuild Iowa Office will close on June 23. The law requires it to "sunset" after three years.

Renters, beware of a scam

There is a new scam targeting renters. Crooks take sales information from various websites, then place that information on home rental sites. The crooks then collect the first month's rent and sometimes security deposits but come up with various stories about why they can't turn over house keys to the new renters. The Des Moines Area Association of Realtors talked to the Register about the scam, saying it has been around for a couple of years. But the number of complaints has grown recently.

Gas prices drop further

Gas prices are down in Des Moines another 6 cents in the past week. The city-wide average is now $3.54 per gallon. The price of crude oil is down under $100 a barrel now on the New York Mercantile exchange, because supplies are adequate.

Des Moines church closes after a century

A church that was started 117 years ago had its final sermon yesterday and the doors were closed. The chapel of Grant Park Christian Church on Des Moines' east side has called it quits after a declining number of members and a lack of financing. The church has been struggling for a decade or so and had 40 current members when it made the decision to close. They plan to gift the building to another church rather than sell.

Used car prices are up

Used-car prices are at their highest level in many years. Trade-in values of used cars have jumped significantly, especially for small cars. Someone trading in 2009 Kia Rio in good condition, for example, can expect it to fetch about $7,500 this month, up 17 percent from its value of $6,400 in May. That means buyers will see higher prices too, as much as 30 percent this month compared to a year ago. The supply is down because people stopped buying as many new cars three years ago during the recession. Highs may come down by August or September.

Friday, June 3, 2011

Maplenol Barn New Home

The Maplenol Barn may have finally found a new home. The West Des Moines City Council's approved a plan to move the 79-year old clay tile building to Southwoods Park, near South 39th Street and Mills Civic Parkway. The West Des Moines school district still needs to OK the plan before it becomes official. If this all works, The Des Moines Register reports the group Friends of the Maplenol Barn, would be responsible for the buildings' upkeep and management.

Child Endangerment Mom

A Des Moines woman's in the Polk County Jail on $10,000 bond, charged with child endangerment for allegedly hurting her 10-year-old son. 31-year old Furaha Evengerine is charged with child endangerment. The Des Moines Register reports Nahimana Meshack got to school Wednesday with injuries to his face and arms. He told school officials his mother tied him up and struck him with a shoe. Police say Evengerine admitted hitting him.

Trial Date Set For Pastor Charged with Sexual Abuse

A trial date of July 12th's been set for the former pastor of Pella's Covenant Reformed Church. According to KCCI, Patrick Edouard's charged with multiple counts sexual abuse and exploitation by a counselor. He's plead not guilty to the charges

Iowa sees more children living in poverty

An Iowa State study says the number of Iowa children in homes below the poverty level is rising faster than the national average. The number of children in poverty is still actually below the national average, but that number is rising faster than the rest of the nation. Iowa's rates have sped up while the rest of the country has slowed down.

Price gouging rule in effect as it relates to flooding

Attorney General Tom Miller says the state's price gouging rule is now in effect for six counties facing flooding from the Missouri River. Gov. Branstad's disaster emergency declaration yesterday triggered it. The rule protects people from those who substantially raise prices for needed goods or services without justification, and it applies for six months.

Bus service offered for summer NASCAR race

If you're looking ahead to the NASCAR race in August, you can make plans to have an easier time driving in. FanExpress has partnered with Iowa Speedway to give fans a transportation option for the 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series on Saturday, August 6th. Hy-Vee grocery stores will be pickup locations in Ankeny, West Des Moines, and south Des Moines. You'll be bused to the track. Call the Iowa Speedway for more.

866-RUSTY-GO (866-787-8946).

High speed chase ends in arrests

A police pursuit through Polk and Story counties got up to 100 mph yesterday. Ankeny police started out pursuing the car driven by 41-year old Mike Lee Jackson of Des Moines just before 10 a.m. State Patrol troopers joined the pursuit. Jackson drove around spike strips - the first police attempt to stop the vehicle. Then a trooper on US Highway 65 used his vehicle to force Jackson to stop. Jackson was charged with third-offense OWI, felony eluding, two counts of assault on a police officer and driving with a suspended license. The passenger was intoxicated and charged with having an open alcohol container.

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Rathbun Lake Beach Closed

The beach at Rathbun Lake's been closed after tests found high levels of fecal bacteria, a sign the water has organisms that could sicken people and pets. Sampling started before the Memorial Day, but confirmation tests delayed the report of high bacteria. The Des Moines Register reports the beach will be reopened when levels return to safe levels. Organisms related to fecal contamination from humans and animals can cause a variety of intestinal illnesses and skin infections.

Study Shows More Kids in Iowa Below the Poverty Line

A new Iowa State study says the number of Iowa children in homes below the poverty level is rising faster than the national average. Sociology Professor David Peters, says 13.5% of the state’s kids are living in poverty compared to the national average of 18.2%. However, in the last decade, Iowa’s rate's gone up 3%, compared to 2% nationally. Peters says the number of kids in poverty's climbing even faster in the state's smaller cities: Fort Dodge, Waterloo, Marshalltown and Sioux City.

Measles Outbreak Appears to be Over

Iowa's Public Health Department says there's been no new confirmed cases of the measles since an outbreak was reported last week. KCCI reports passengers on a flight with a child who had the measles, were released from home confinement today. Others who had direct contact with the infected youngster in the hospital, will be out of home confinement Saturday. These people, were isolated because they either hadn't been or weren't sure they'd gotten the MMR vaccine against measles.

Gilmore Gets Life No Parole for Killing Wife

27-year old Dante Gilmore has been sentenced to mandatory life in prison without the possibility of parole by a Polk County Judge. KCCI reports Gilmore's the Des Moines man convicted last month of 1st degree murder for shooting his wife Randi to death inn their home in April 2010. Prosecutors say Gilmore repeatedly shot her during a domestic dispute while she was trying to get away from him.

Bank robber suspect identified

Des Moines police have their suspect in a bank robbery last month. 28-year-old Ryan McLeod is suspected of robbing a West Bank May 16th. Police believe he recently moved to Des Moines from Kansas. He indicated he had a gun and handed a note to the teller, then made off with an undisclosed amount of cash. A warrant has been issued for McLeod's arrest for second-degree robbery.

Motorcyclist hospitalized after accident

An accident yesterday left a motocyclist hospitalized. A motorcycle and two other vehicles crashed on the ramp from westbound interstate highway 235 to northbound I-35/80. The accident is still under investigation.

Shots fired in Des Moines, no injuries reported

Gunfire was exchanged last night, but police say there were no injuries. Witnesses say the driver of a small, maroon, four-door car tried to run down a pedestrian in the 1100 block of 17th Street, and after jumping and rolling on the car to avoid injury, the pedestrian ran away. Then five or six shots were fired at him. One witness said it looked like the pedestrian was firing back. Police don't have the names of those involved, only witness accounts. They'll follow up today.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Clive Aquatic Center Hours

With warm weather expected the next few days, they're going to tr and have the Clive Aquatic Center open from 11:a.m. to 7:30p.m. the rest of the week. That will depend on the weather and staff availability. The Des Moines Register reports a decision on hours will be made on a daily basis. you can call to check after 11:00a.m. each day by calling 440-0599.

WDM Council Member Running Again

West Des Moines City Councilman Charles Schneider says he's running for reelection. According to the Des Moines Register, Schneider's been on the council since 2007. He's one of two council members up for re-election in November. He says he wants to make sure West Des Moines stays a brain gain engine for Iowa. Any resident wanting to run for either seat can file candidate papers at City Hall starting Aug. 29.


Strip Club Patron Beaten

Des Moines police are looking for 6-men they believe attacked 34-year old Jabbar Faheem last night. Faheem tells police his attackers thought a dancer at the Beach Girls strip club was a police informant, and that he was involved with her and an informant as well. He says the 6 men attacked him while he smoking a cigarette outside a house with a couple of friends. KCCI reports Faheem's recovering at Mercy Medical Center.

Restaurant Roof Thief

Here's a unique take on the restaurant robbery. CUt a hole in the buildings roof, drop in, empty the cash register and leave the same way you came in. KCCI reports Des Moines Police are looking for the thief who did that at the TNT Vietnamese restaurant. The suspect got $200, and apparently also tried to take a big screen TV.

Budget stalemate continues

What happens if a budget stalemate stretches past the June 30 deadline and causes a state shutdown? Governor Branstad said Tuesday that contingency plans exist, but very little beyond that has been said. One of the biggest sticking points in budget talks involves school funding.

One month to go until the red light cameras start clicking

Officials have called a news conference today to share the latest details on the city's red-light and speed camera enforcement campaign. There's a one-month countdown now, to fines for those caught on camera speeding and running red lights. When the fines begin, the city will contract with a collection agency to recover unpaid citations, which is something that has worked in other cities. It's expected to be a big boost for the city's budget, but they've said their focus is on safety, not the revenue.

Missouri River Flooding Update

Over near the Missouri River dozens of volunteers are helping residents in a riverside neighborhood protect their homes from rising flood waters. Four homes in the River View subdivision in Sloan are directly affected. One homeowner said the river’s edge is usually 150 feet away. Now, it’s six feet from entering her basement. The family has built a wood and dirt barrier in front of the basement on the porch. Other homeowners in Nebraska and Iowa who live in low-lying areas near the Missouri River have already started evacuating to avoid floodwaters, but so far the flooding has mostly affected farmland in the two states.

LED Lamps Stolen, Bridge Doesn't Light the Night

In just a month since the opening of the High Trestle Bridge, 12 of the bridge's LED lights have been stolen. Boone County Conservation Board director Andy Hockenson tells KCCI it looks like someone pried the fixtures off the bridge. Hockenson said they are looking at options to protect the lighting by adding a cage around each fixture. The conservation board is also considering other security features to prevent future vandalism. Right now the bridge, which is 13 storeis above the river, is no longer lit up at night due to the damage.