Tuesday, January 31, 2012

State Senate Ways and Means Chair Gives Gov a Choice

The Chair of the State Senate's Ways and Means Committee says they won't be signing off on any tax cuts, until Gov. Branstad signs legislation to expand a tax credit benefiting lower-income families. Democrat Joe Bolkom says it would help working families making under $45-grand/year and stimulate the economy. Branstad, a republican, vetoed the plan twice last year, saying it should be part of a discussion on taxes in general.

Altoona Coffee's with Legislators Start Saturday

Altoona's Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring some coffee's with state legislators. The first is this Saturday from 9:30 to 11a.m. at the Altoona Public Library. There's be another one March 3rd and April 7th. The Herald-Index reports Polk County Supervisor Tom Hockensmith, Sen. Dennis Black and Rep. Kim Pearson, all plan to be there. Each official will make a brief statement before taking questions.




Changes On the Way for Motel Relax

Urbandale’s mayor, city manager and police chief had a chat this week with Jill Mollison and her lawyer. She owns Motel Relax on Hickman Road. The Des Moines Register reports neighborhood protested Saturday about the 500 plus police responses there for everything from deaths to suicides since 2009. Police will be stopping in to check with on duty clerks as well as review calls to the motel on a daily basis to try and cut down public nuisances.

Ex Public Official Nailed By State Audit

A state audit's found the former deputy city clerk of Melcher-Dallas deposited over $8300 in city utility payments into her own bank account as well as getting over $5600 in salary she wasn't supposed to get. Patricia Ripperger's bank notified the city's mayor about the deposits, and they were recovered by the city. KCCI reports the audit also found Ripperger approved her own time sheets which didn't match the hours paid in city records.

Regency Rehab and Skilled Nursing Center Fined in Gangrene Death

A Council Bluffs care facility is facing a federal fine of nearly 62 thousand dollars after a resident there died from contracting gangrene. The Des Moines Register reports that documents indicate that staff of Regency Rehab and Skilled Nursing Center did not properly care for the injury, and the attending physician reported that staff put ice on a wound, cutting off the blood supply to a broken leg. The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services imposed the fine against the facility.

Man Fined for Destroying Bald Eagle Nest

It's illegal to cut down a tree with a bald eagle's nest in it, and a southeast Iowa man found that out the hard way. US Wildlife officials report that they fined Orvin Yoder of Bonaparte 25 hundred dollars for disturbing the bird's nest. Yoder was cutting down a tree along the Des Moines River near Keokuk last fall.

Monday, January 30, 2012

Lawmakers Keeping Fuel Tax Hike Plan Alive

The Governor may not like it, but state lawmakers say they're pressing ahead with a plan to raise the fuel tax. The Des Moines Register reports the chairs of the house and senate transportation committees want an 8-to-10-cent fuel tax hike to cover $215-million in road and bridge work. Gov. Branstad repeated his opposition to the hike today, but the lawmakers say unless leadership tells them to back off, they're moving ahead.

Young People Push Leiglsature for Social Host Law

Young people from around Iowa were at the Capital today lobbying legislators for stiffer state laws on underage drinking. The Des Moines Register reports they want a social host law barring adults from letting those underage drink liquor on their property, as well as widen the state's minor-in-possession law to include consumption as well as possession. Violators of such a law would be guilty of a misdemeanor and face fines.

Ottumwa PD Bust Man for Sexually Abusing Girl

A 33-year old man's been charged by Ottumwa Police in a sex abuse case involving a 12-year-old girl. KCCI reports Darwin Fletcher's being held in the Wapello County Jail, on two counts of 3rd degree sexual abuse. Police were notified last week that the child had been sexually abused, and an initial investigation determined the abuse had taken place on two different occasion at a home detectives haven not identified.

Burkle Pleads Not Guilty

Jackie Burkle's entered a not guilty plea this morning to killing her newborn twin girls. Burkle's charged with two counts of first-degree murder. KCCI reports Huxley Police were called to check on the welfare of the 22-year-old, and found she'd given birth to the girls in her apartment, and that they didn't survive. Their remains were found in the trunk of her car. She's being held on $1-million bond.

Mom Busted for Allegedly Trying to Kill Dad, Kids with Grandma

Two little kids are with there grandma today, after their mother allegedly tried to kill their father. Police said it happened in Red Oak on Saturday. KCCI reports that police arrested 25 year old Kathi Lehman on attempted murder and child endangerment charges. Police said Lehman stabbed 49 year old Patrick Colebank, who was taken to Creighton University Medical Center. Red Oak police said the couple's children, ages 1 and 2, were inside the apartment at the time.

Mason City PD Looking for New Baby

Mason City Police have now been looking for a then newborn for about three weeks, and say they have no new leads. The Mason City Globe Gazette reports that the 19 year old from Charles City, who is believed to be the baby's mother, is not cooperating with police, but has also not been arrested. Police believe the baby was born prematurely, and weighed about three pounds at birth.

Friday, January 27, 2012

WDM School Bus Driver Canned after Child Found Asleep on Bus

A West Des Moines school bus driver's been canned, after they left their bus at the end of their shift, but left a kindergartner behind on the bus. The child, from Clive Elementary, feel asleep on the bus. The school district got moving when the parent called wondering where their child was. Searchers found the youngster on the bus. A district spokesperson tells KKCI drivers failing to check their buses at the end of a shift is unacceptable.

Two Busted in Synthetic Pot at Gas Stations

Two men are in the Jasper County Jail after their gas stations were raided by drug agents acting on complaints that both stations were selling synthetic marijuana. The busts were made at the Petro Shop in Newton an the Kellogg County Store in Kellogg. KCCI reports 46-year old Jaswant Singh and 58-year old Jamail Manhani are charged possession with intent to deliver synthetic cannabinoid, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Counterfeit Cash Shows Up in Iowa

Counterfeit money's been making the rounds in a few Iowa cities. Iowa City Police say $10's and $20's were passed at local businesses. There have also been some phony $20's spotted in Northeast and Southwestern Iowa. Investigators say the printing on the phony bills was o.k., and the denominations were right, but the paper wasn't right, and like real paper money, the phony bills didn't have a security strip or watermark.

Postal Worker Gets Six Years

36 year veteran postal worker Roger Dengler has been sentenced to six years in prison for turning his Davenport home into a drug house. This all started back in '06 when investigators confiscated 80 pounds of pot from a hotel room. The next thing he knew, Dengler was taking pot out of tires that were shipped to his house, repackaging it and selling it to people in the area. Its not known if the tires were shipped through the mail.

Winning Ticket Withdrawn

The 14.3 million dollar Hot Lotto claim has been withdrawn. The Des Moines Register reports that Crawford Shaw "abruptly" withdrew the claim last night. Shaw said he doesn't even know who is behind Hexam Investments Trust, which is the group claiming to have the ticket. It is curious, though that Hexam even said they'd donate the proceeds of the winnings -- the amount after taxes to Iowa charities. So while lottery officials said they would have liked to pay the prize, they can't, since there's now no one to pay.

Thursday, January 26, 2012

No Support During Drug Testing Bill Hearing

Three bills that would require drug tests for welfare applicants didn't get a lot of support during testimony before a house subcommittee this afternoon. The Des Moines Register reports on social service advocate says he didn't have to pass a drug test to get a homestead tax credit, or a drivers' license, and calls the testing requirement treating people differently just because they're poor.

MidAmerican Nuke Plant Bill Gets Initial Approval

Despite concerns of consumer and environmental groups, a state senate committee's approved legislation that would allow MidAmerican Energy to bill customers for the cost of a proposed nuclear power plant before construction even starts. KCCI reports the Iowa Utilities Board analyzed the plan and says it puts the risk on consumers which opponents say sets a dangerous precedent. Lawmakers could start debating the bill next week.

Lawmakers Send Bill to Gov. Raising Vet Tuition Funding

The House has sent Gov. Branstad a measure raising spending on tuition assistance for deployed vets who want to attend public Iowa colleges. KCCI reports a big Iowa National Guard troop deployment's raised demand for the program, forcing officials to cut funding from 90% of tuition to 50%. The bill passed today comes up with $1.3-million to keep the 90% tuition cost coverage. The governor hasn't decided if he'll sign it into law.

State Senate Pres. Says Raise the Gas Tax

Iowa's State Senate President says the time has come to put aside and send the governor a bill raising the fuel tax. Jack Kibbie a democrat, says there's bipartisan support for a tax hike to pay for road and bridge work. The House Speaker, a republican, isn't saying if there's support in his chamber for a tax hike.

Texting While Driving Likely Killed 22 Year Old

No texting while driving. Police tell us that all the time. Now, police say its likely the cause of a crash on Interstate 80 that killed 22 year old Nikki Johnston on January 13. Nikki was the one texting. The crash happened near Avoca that day and police say Johnston lost control of her car and went through a grass median before a semi-truck heading east broadsided her at about 70 mph. Johnston died on impact.

Relax Motel Too Lax

Conditions at Urbandale's Motel Relax have become so lax that police will help with the clean up. KCCI TV reports that in 365 days last year, police were called to the place 360 times. Police say the scenes they come upon range from druggies and drunks to bodies at the hotel. Now, police and the owners are strategizing on how to clean up the motel and get rid of the crime.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Legislative Panel Considers Requiring More to Submit DNA Samples

A legislative committee's considering a study bill that would require anyone in the state convicted of aggravated misdemeanors-like assault or domestic violence to submit a DNA sample to be used in profiling by police. Current law requires convicted felons to submit DNA, which can be compared with state and national databases to help solve other crimes. The Des Moines Register reports the ACLU and Iowa Association for Justice oppose the proposal.

Guv's Got Questions to Answer About Commitment to LGBTQ Youth Conference

Gov. Branstad's not saying if a Family Leader report, that he wants his title removed from the “Iowa Governor’s Conference on LGBTQ Youth” is true. The Des Moines Register reports a Family Leader official also says state agencies won't be part of the March 8th event. Iowa Safe Schools runs the conference and the goal is to protect kids and stop bullying that can lead to poor school performance, increased dropout rates and child suicide.

Ottumwa Man Charged in sex Abuse/Incest Case

23-year old Seth Babcock's been charged by Ottumwa Police in a sexual abuse and incest case. KCCI reports police started their investigation last September. Babcock's behind bars in the Wapello County Jail charged with sexual abuse, incest, and exhibition of obscenity to minors.

Legislature Considering Banning Red Light and Speed Cameras

A state house transportation subcommittee has approved and sent to the full panel a bill banning automated red light and speed cameras. KCCI reports Des Moines and Cedar Rapids are on the list of cities using the cameras, and officials from those communities told committee members they have data showing their use cuts down on the number and severity of accidents. A committee member says the cameras may violate civil liberties.

Gold or Goldstein: No Matter. He's in Trouble!

What's in a name? Maybe something hidden. Case in point, moviemaker Harel Goldstein. He's serving time in California on federal bank fraud charges. When he made movies in Iowa, he was known as Harel Gold to hide the trouble he was in in California. Prosecutors charge that Goldstein, or Gold made up invoices so he could claim tax credits when he made the movie Underground here in Iowa. Goldstein pleaded guilty to fraud and forgery charges in Iowa this week.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Branstad Still Doesn't Like Gas Tax Hike But---

Gov. Branstad today unveiled the $50-million in savings found in Iowa’s Road Use Tax Fund, something he demanded before any consideration of a gas tax hike. But The Des Moines Register says he's still opposed to the hike. He did say he wouldn't threaten to veto a hike if the state house and senate both approve one.

DM School Board Accepts Corey Burgess Resignation

Des Moines school board's accepted Corey Burgess resignation after a closed door meeting. Noone's talking about why Burgess was let go. The Des Moines Register reports an investigation was done after complaints were made against Burgess by teachers at McCombs Middle, where he was principal last year, and a teachers union rep said while the issues weren't student related-they were serious. There's been no info on the results of that investigation.

White House Cites Iowa Green Jobs for Vets Program

The Iowa Green Veterans AmeriCorps program's been cited by the White House as one of the successes in helping veterans nationwide. Iowa DNR tells KCCI they connect vets with real opportunities in green jobs and the natural resources field through work like helping rural, low-income and elderly residents identify and implement energy improvements, help with disaster recovery, and protect state parks. There are 10-vets working full-time in the program here and in Cedar Rapids.

Driver in Deadly Weekend Crash Had Suspended License

The Iowa State Patrol says the driver of a car involved in a head-on crash in Greene County last weekend didn't even have a driver's license. KCCI reports 42-year old David Muir's license was suspended. Muir was driving a car that slammed into a pick up Sunday afternoon. A passenger in Muir's car and the driver of the pick up died. Muir was traveling over 80mph at the time of the crash.

Man Sentenced for Brothers' Deaths

The Newton Daily News reported that the driver accused of killing brothers David and Dakota Stattleman last march has been sentenced. 19 year old Joseph Stoner will do ten years and pay the teens' parents 150 dollars in restitution for each death. The investigation showed that Stoner was intoxicated by a controlled substance at the time of the crash.

Rest Stops to be Demolished

Two rest stops on I-80 will be demolished. That will make room for a new interchange. Crews will build an interchange for exit 119 in Dallas County, just west of Des Moines. Its not known if the rest stops, that see about half a million people a year as they travel, will be rebuilt after the new interchange is complete..

Monday, January 23, 2012

Branstad Unemployment Office Shutdown Challenger to State Supreme Court

The Iowa Supreme Court's set February 21st to hear oral arguments in the lawsuit over Gov. Branstad's line item veto of a bill that shut down 36 unemployment offices statewide. The suit was brought by AFSCME, and 6-state lawmakers last August, claims a governor can't move money removed from the budget in a line item veto somewhere else. A Polk County judge ruled the veto unconstitutional in December.

Branstad Objects to Electrical Work Inspections for Farmers

Gov. Branstad's signed an objection to a 2008 rule requiring farmers to have safety inspections after having electrical work done on their property. Branstad says it's a power grab by the electrical examining board, and hurts farmers with a cost averaging $500. The Des Moines Register reports the inspection price is on a sliding scale and many inspections cost less than that. Branstad's action will make it easier for farmers to challenge the rule in court.

Deadline Set for Hot Lotto Winner to Claim Cash Prize

The Iowa Lottery's set a 3p.m. Friday deadline for the winner of a Hot Lotto jackpot to claim their prize. If they don't show, the prize will go away. According to KCCI, the $7.5 million ticket was turned in December 29th, just a few minutes before the one-year deadline. A New York attorney signed the ticket for a trust, and has so far refused to identify the owner of the trust or how he ended up with the ticket.

DM PD Looking for Murder Witness Jordan Dock

Des Moines Police need your help finding Jordan Dock. He's wanted as a material witness in the murder of Teandre Trumbo-Talton. KCCI reports Trumbo-Talton was gunned down outside Paul Revere's Pizza. 20-year old Demiko Carr and 17-year old Chavez Nash, both from Des Moines, have been arrested. If you know where Jordan Dock is, call Des Moines Police detectives at 515-283-4869 or Polk County Crime Stoppers at 515-223-1400.

DM City Council Has Hotel Project Vote Today

Des Moines City Council's expected to give a green light today to a new hotel in downtown. The plan before them would put a 129-room Hampton Inn along the Des Moines River south of Court Avenue, and includes a 238-space garage and a second extended stay hotel. KCCI reports the $32-million project calls for two hotels, the Hampton Inn, and an extended stay hotel.

Two Hurt in Weekend Snowmobile Crash

The Dubuque County Sheriff's office says two people were hurt when their snowmobiles collided over the weekend. Investigators said the collision also did about 15 thousand dollars in damage. Sheriff's investigators said the crash happened around 6 Saturday night when 44-year-old Robert Freiburger of Mount Vernon tried to slow his snowmobile before it hit one that 22-year-old Chad Donovan of North Liberty was driving. Both were treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Police Seek Pair in Thefts

Police were searching the Des Moines River banks near Southeast 22nd Street and Hartford Avenue this morning for a couple of suspects wanted on warrants for burglary or theft. Police started looking for 31 year old Jamie Johnson and 29 year old Troy Collins last night. The Des Moines Register reports that they found an SUV they were believed to be riding in and followed it from an apartment complex in the two thousand block of Southeast King Avenue to near the river. They have not found the two despite following footprints until early this morning.

Friday, January 20, 2012

DM Police Bust Two for Trumbo-Talton Murder

Des Moines Police have arrested two people for the January 7th murder of Te’Andre Trumbo-Talton. The Des Moines Register reports they've been identified as 20-year old Damiko Carr of Des Moines and 17-year old Chavez Nash. Police also have a warrant for 19-year old Jordan Dock of Des Moines, who they believe was a witness to Trumbo-Talton's shooting. If you know where Dock is, call Des Moines Police-515-283-4869 or Polk County Crime Stoppers at 223-1400.

Road Use Tax Savings Details Due Tuesday

Gov. Branstad's expected to take the wraps of how Iowa's DOT's found $50-million in savings in the Road Use Tax Fund. The Governor's supposed to release the details in a speech at a Transportation Day event. Iowa DOT was asked to find the savings to free up more cash for state, county, and city road projects so there's be no need to raise the gas tax. The Des Moines Register reports the fund gets over a billion a year.

MidAmerican Buys Another Wind Farm

MidAmerican Energy Holdings of Des Moines is buying the 81-megawatt Bishop Hill II wind project near Peoria, Ill., from Invenergy Wind. The Des Moines Register reports the project should be on line in the fourth quarter of this year. MidAmerican, the state's largest electric and gas company's already bought or built 3,300 plus megawatts of wind generation, and invested over $6-billion in wind projects here and in Wyoming, Washington and Oregon.

Southwest Coming to Des Moines Airport

You have a new travel choice to and from Des Moines Airport. Southwest Airlines is taking over AirTran Airways operations here and at 21 other domestic and international airports. The changeover will be gradual, and Southwest officials haven't set a date for the switch here. KCCI reports Southwest has a long reputation of bringing lower fares to airports where it operates. At some airports fares have dropped by up to 45% after they've entered the market.

Car-Train Crash in Ames

KCCI's reporting that Ames police were called to a crash involving a car and train early Friday morning. Police said the train slammed into the driver's side door of a car at the intersection of Ontario Street and Scholl at 3 a.m. The woman who was driving was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

Snow to 7 Inches By Tonight

By tonight, the Hawkeye state could see as much as 7 inches of snow in some parts. The heaviest snow, falling now, the National Weather Service says, should end this afternoon. The heaviest snow expected closer to Mason City. Driving could be a challenge for much of the day.



Thursday, January 19, 2012

No "Blue Alert" for Iowa

A plan to create a “Blue Alert” system in Iowa's been killed by a State Senate Judiciary SubCommittee. "Blue Alert" would've been used to help speed the arrest of violent offenders who've wounded or killed a law enforcement officer. State Sen. Robert Hogg of Cedar Rapids, says the Governor already has the power to create an alert with an executive order, and he says public safety officials have told him there are times when they prefer not to issue a public alert.

Dirty Dancing's Out at Valley High

Sexually suggestive dancing's out at West Des Moines Valley High School. The no dirty dancing policy taxes effect with the schools winter formal next week. The Des Moines Register says the new policy says in part that “Students should face their dancing partners, and any dancing that involves groping, grinding, or public displays of affection will result in those students being asked to leave the dance.”

State House Committee Has Compromise Commercial Prop Tax Proposal

The House Ways and Means Committee's expected to consider a compromise commercial property tax cut plan. KCCI reports the plan would cut tax rates by 40% over the next 14-years, rather than Governor's 8-years. The proposal gives small business more relief, something demanded by State Senate Democrats. It also gives all property tax payers a break by providing more money for education and tying residential property tax hikes to inflation.

Snow is on the Way

The National Weather Service says snow is headed this way, but the Des Moines Metro's not expected to be the hardest hit. Forecasts call for snow to start overnight and we could get 1 to 2" here. The heaviest snow will be in the northern and northeastern part of the state where totals could hit 5 to 7". What everyone will get is wind chills which are expected to run from -20-to-30 below. The snow should end tomorrow night.

Prairie Meadows Opens March 1

Workers are putting the final touches on the new 32 million dollar hotel at Prairie Meadows which opens March 1, and hotel officials said after one look at the two-story lobby, you'll know that you've moved from the prairie to the city. There's a 30 foot bar, a saltwater pool and whirlpool, and both, user-friendly. The hotel also has self-cleaning windows that use a special coating that utilizes sunlight to decompose dirt, which then washes off in the rain.

Who Won Iowa?

Is it possible that the Iowa Caucus has no winner? KCCI is reporting so today. When the caucus was over last week, Mitt Romney had won by eight votes. Now, officials say Rick Santorum has won by 34 votes. But GOP officials say they will not declare a winner since votes from eight precincts are now missing. Unofficially, Santorum would end up with 29,839 votes to Romney's 29,805. Officially, GOP officials will make the announcement later today.

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Lawmakers Moving to Boost Tuition Funding for National Guard

Iowa's Senate has said yes to $1.3-million more in financial aid for Iowa National Guard members who attend Iowa colleges and universities. According to the Des Moines Register, there's a serious funding problem with thousands of troops back from Iraq and Afghanistan and returning to school. The Guard had planned to cut financial aid from 90% of tuition to 50% because of the jump. The house is expected to approve the funding hike as well.

Missing Crawfordsville Woman Safe in Texas

The 45-year-old Crawfordsville businesswoman who's been missing for two weeks is alive and well and in Texas. The Des Moines Register reports a Washington County Sheriff’s spokesperson says Sharon Hopf is safe with family. Last week investigators said they believed her disappearance was of her own choosing to escape family and work stress.

Traffic Stop Turns up Meth Making Material

A traffic stop's landed two men in the Polk County Jail after a deputies made a traffic stop in the 3900 block of Northeast 14th Street last night. They noticed a strong chemical odor, and did a search that turned up several items used to make methamphetamine. KCCI reports 51-year-old Thomas Dell, of Des Moines, and 43-year-old Todd Sheriff, of Delaware Township are being held on $400,000 bond each.

WDM and Waukee Getting I-80 Hookup

The Federal Highway Administration's given a green light to a project that'll give West Des Moines and Waukee an interchange with I-80. KCCI reports ramps linking I-80 to Alice's Road/105 Street are part of a 1,700 acre plan for development in the area. A bridge over the interstate's already in place as well as some of the connectors. Next is an environmental impact study, the interchange design, with construction starting this fall and ending by Spring 2013.

State Pays to Settle ISU Car Crash

The State Appeals Board has agreed to pay $35,000 to settle a lawsuit brought by Nancy Willett. She was hurt in March 2010 when her car was rear-ended by a vehicle driven by an Iowa State University Employee. The crash was on the Highway 65 off ramp near Carlisle. KCCI reports Willett sued for medical bills, lost income and property damage.

Casey's Sales Up

Ankney based Casey's general stores said yesterday that sales of drinks and food boosted its revenues for December, 2011. For stores open at least a year, sales of prepared food were up more than 13 percent, but grocery sales were only up about seven percent. Casey's gas sales fell by about two and a half percent even though the price of gas was up about 15 cents a gallon in December 2011 over December 2010. Casey's has about 17 hundred stores under names like Casey's General store and Just Diesel.

Crawford Shaw Shows Up

Crawford Shaw was here yesterday and actually met with Iowa lottery officials! He's the Bedford New York attorney who is the trustee for Hexam investments Trust, and so did some local attorneys who represent the trust. The jackpot has not been paid out though, as lottery officals tell KCCi that the investigation continues. Lottery officials also say they have to complete a security process, and that it will be some time before the payout is made.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Iowa On Line Poker Bill in the Works

State lawmakers in favor of internet poker, are looking at a plan that would let Iowa join with other state's and possibly foreign countries, where on line gaming is legal. State Sen. Jeff Danielson, a Cedar Falls democrat, tells the Des Moines Register he will soon draw up a bill to legalize internet poker. It could raise $3-to$13-million in new tax revenues. A Register Poll last January found 73% of Iowans oppose on line gambling.

Pioneer Bringing New Corn Variety to Market

Pioneer Hi-Bred's coming out with a new corn variety that's more drought resistant. Published reports say the seeds, called Optimum AQUAmax, should boost yields by 5% when there's limited water. It was created with conventional breeding, so it won't need government approval. Pioneer, based in Johnston, is part of DuPont, which is in a race with other seed companies to get products to market that can grow in drier and low water environments.

Story Blogged at 01-17-12 15:29 by djennings

Pioneer Has New Corn Seed Variety

Pioneer Hi-Bred's coming out with a new corn variety that's more drought resistant. Published reports say the seeds, called Optimum AQUAmax, should boost yields by 5% when there's limited water. It was created with conventional breeding, so it won't need government approval. Pioneer, based in Johnston, is part of DuPont, which is in a race with other seed companies to get products to market that can grow in direr and low water environments.

Lawmaker Suggests Nursing Home Just for Sex Offenders

Some state reps, including Democrat Helen Miller of Fort Dodge, says the answer to one current issue is to create a special nursing home for elderly sex offenders and other law breakers. Miller's comment over the weekend follows reports of a sex offenders who was accused of sexual contact with another resident of a nursing home in Pomeroy. KCCI reports Gov. Branstad's wants nursing home to tell the families of residents when a sex offender moves in.

Man Busted in Attempted Meat Theft

Des Moines Police have arrested 47-year old William Taylor for robbery and drug possession. Police say they were called to a Fairway store, and employees say they'd gotten into a scuffle with Taylor who tried to steal about $300 worth of meat. He had a box cutter, but told them he'd pull a gun if they called police. After his arrest, he was taken to the Polk County Jail where officers found a joint in one of his pockets.

Attroney Wants Boy Tried as Juvenile

A hearing on the matter is set for the 20th of this month after an attorney in Kingsley questioned why 14 year old accused of shooting his stepbrother to death is in adult instead of juvenile court.
Attorney, John Polifka is asking the judge to deny the prosecution's request that his client be waived into adult court after the boy allegedly shot and killed his 17 year old stepbrother. The boy is charged with involuntary manslaughter and willful injury. The shooting happened on December 9. Polifka said if the boy were charged as a youthful offender, he could be rehabilitated or punishment when he reaches the age of maturity.

Shaw Says He'll Be In Iowa

And still, we wait...
The Des Moines Register reports that the New York attorney who signed a winning Lottery ticket turned in just minutes before the deadline again says he’ll be in Iowa this week to explain the mystery. As of early this morning, the newspaper reported that Crawford Shaw said he'd be here on Monday -- its Tuesday -- to meet with lottery officials, spend few days, and quote -- “ get everything straightened out.” Lottery officials won't pay until they're confident that the trust that Shaw represents owned the ticket legally.

Monday, January 16, 2012

New Flood Sensors

Iowa's Flood Center has doubled the number of flood sensors statewide. KCCI reports the agencies online database gets information from 100 sensors, giving officials real-time monitoring of water levels in the state's rivers and streams. Those sensors use sonar to determine how fast water levels are rising. The U.S. Geological Survey also has over 150 gauges providing similar information from around the state.

WDM Fire Traced to Electrical Problem

West Des Moines fire officials say an electrical malfunction was behind Sunday's fire at the Normandy Terrace Apartments. They think the problem was in a light circuit in the attic space over a stairwell. KCCI reports 25-residents were displaced by the fire. There's been no word yet on when any of the 25-people displaced will be allowed to go back to claim their belongings Early damage estimates are around $500,000.

Cop Firing Upheld

Cedar Rapids Civil Service Commission's upheld the police department's firing of a Robyn Obadal from the force. She was terminated after being convicted of a misdemeanor. Obadal, who had 14-years on the job, was convicted of trespassing for letting two dogs out of a locked kennel at a home last summer. Obadal can appeal the decision to district court.

Panhandling Turns to Car Chase

A couple panhandling inside a WalMart in Altoona yesterday, led to a car chase that ended off I-80 in Johnston where Michael Thone, of Minneapolis was forced off the road. He's in the Polk County Jail on multiple charges including driving without a license and eluding. A passenger in the car, Anne Fairbanks of North Dakota, is also in the county jail, charged was on an outstanding warrant for a parole violation in North Dakota.

Two injured in House Fire

KCCI reports that fire officals said a home was a total loss and one person was hospitalized after a fire reported last night. Crews from three departments battled the house fire near Zearing and McCallsburg in Story County. When they got there, crews found the house engulfed,and now say a wood burning stove may have caused the fire. Two people were in the house at the time of the fire. One was taken to Ames with burns.

Huntsman Out

CBS News is confirming that former Utah Governor John Huntsman will pull out of the race for the White House. Huntsman all but ignored Iowa and its first in the nation caucuses to focus on New Hampshire's first in the nation primary.

Friday, January 13, 2012

Woman Charged with December Death

Urbandale Police say they've filed charged against a woman in the December death of Michael Mehalovich. Christina Garner's charged with involuntary manslaughter. Police were called to Motel Relax December 16th for an unresponsive man. Toxicology led the Polk County Attorney's office to bring the new charge. Garner's already facing drug charges.

DM Officials Look for Apartment Fire Cause

Firefighters say there were no injuries, but they're still trying to find out what started a fire very early this morning at 926 Oakridge Drive. A woman living in the apartment tells the Des Moines Register she was in her kitchen when she saw flames in the living room. Damage to the apartment's estimated at $75,000.

Hopf May Have Disappeared on Her Own

The Washington County Sheriff now says he believes Sharon Hopf disappeared on her own. According to KCCI, Sheriff Jerry Dunbar says conversations with family and co-workers show Hopf was stressed, had deleted all emails sent from her work computer January 4th, and disappeared the next day. Her car was found in Missouri, and investigators now don't believe foul play is involved. Anyone with information should call 319-653-2107.

Polk County Bond Issue?

Polk County's supervisors have started talking about a plan that would lead to asking voters for $83-million in a bond referendum. The Des Moines Register reports there's been talk of turning the downtown jail into a criminal courts annex; renovating the existing courthouse for civil trials, probate and family court: and making the convention complex the home of traffic, juvenile and small claims court and the county attorney's office.

Man Wanted for Mount Ayr Murder

Deputies investigating a 911 call found a 45-year old woman dead in a home near Mount Ayr early today. KCCI reports the Iowa Department of Public Safety want 40-year old Robert Taylor for first degree murder. The dead woman's 45-year old Lori Yeager. A 9-year old girl called police to report a domestic altercation between Taylor and Yeager. Anyone who knows where Taylor is should call the Ringgold County Sheriff: 641-464-3921.

Tho Reopens

Remember this:






We told you about Van Pham Tho's car repair shop being broken into in November because our partners at KCCI TV told us about it. Now, he's back in business thanks to total strangers like Dr. Brenda Flaming,






who told Tho to pay it forward.

20 Out of Apts Because of Fire

KCCI is reporting that fire investigators are now looking for the cause of a fire that had 20 people out of their apartments at 926 Oakridge in Des Moines. It was just after 3:30 a.m. wen a woman called 911 to say her building was on fire. When firefighters got there, there was heavy smoke. Nobody was hurt in the fire.

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Polk City Considers Moratorium Impact Fee

As an incentive for new construction, Polk County Commissioners extended their impact fee moratorium last year. The Lakeland Ledger's reporting the Polk City Council's given an initial approval to extend that moratorium for another year. Their proposal, if given final approval, would extend the moratorium on municipal impact fees for police, fire, recreation and general government from Oct. 1, when the initial one-year moratorium expired, to Sept. 30.

Burkle Case Highlights Need to Better Publicize Safe Haven Law

The day police say Jackie Burkle killed her twin newborn daughters, she was only 10 miles away from an Ames hospital that would have taken the kids no questions asked. With Iowa’s safe haven provision, Burkle could have handed the infants over to workers at any health care facility staffed around the clock with no legal consequences. The Des Moines Register reports social service agencies say this is a sign the save haven provision needs to be better publicized.

Legislative Leaders say Gas Tax Approval Likely

Leaders from both parties of the legislature say they'll probably approve a hike in the gas tax. Lawmakers appear to be coming together on a proposal that gets $50-million in savings from the transportation department for the budget year starting July 1st, paired with a 4-cent hike in the fuel tax, gasoline and diesel fuel, in each of the next 2-years. The tax is 21 cents/gallon for gas and 19 cents for ethanol-blended fuel now; and the state gets $22-million for each penny hike.

Assault Charges For High School Wreslters

4-members of the North High School wrestling team in Sioux City face misdemeanor charges of simple assault after an alleged hazing incident involving another team member. KCCI reports police say the students assaulted another boy Dec. 19 at the school. Police say the incident involved humiliation techniques on the bare skin of sensitive body parts.

Mother Faces Child Endangerment Charge

A 23-year-old Waterloo woman is facing a charge of child endangerment. Trina Davis told police last week that her toddler daughter was scalded in the bathtub. Court documents say that Davis left a nine year old in charge when she went to the store. A four year old turned on the hot water in the tub and the 22 month old climbed inside. The girl had to have skin grafs because of the burns on her legs. Davis was released from just not long after her arrest.

Pharmacy Owner Punches Would Be Robber

A man on the wrong end of a punch is in jail after he tried to rob a Council Bluffs pharmacy. Police there said 30 year old Donald A White used a box cutter to try to rob the Union pharmacy of some high powered painkillers. Owner Bil Shipley said he punched White when White threatened him with the box cutter. Shipley then held White down until police arrived and arrested him. White was also wanted for another crime that day too.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Troops Return to Iowa

About 60 members of the U.S. Army Reserve's 332nd Engineer Company are back home. They returned to Decorah yesterday. The unit was deployed in Afghanistan back in March. The soldiers built seven bases, more than a dozen surveillance and operations centers and 30 miles of road during their 10-month deployment.

Goodrich Engine Fire

350-people were evacuated from Goodrich Engine Components in West Des Moines this morning due to a fire. West Des Moines fire marshal says one of the workers was testing a gas turbine engine when there was a fireball. The investigation into what went wrong is underway. Four people were treated for minor injuries.

UI Gets Flood Fix Cash

The federal government's come up with over $100-million for two major flood projects at The University of Iowa. Most of the funds will be used to renovate Hancher Auditorium, the rest for the Art Building East. Both were damaged during the flooding of 2008. University officials are still waiting for word on if they'll be getting federal funds to deal with problems at the art museum.

Facility On Trial in March

A 30-year-old Ankeny woman who authorities say was found intoxicated while working in a hospital emergency room in Osage on Thanksgiving night goes on trial on March 30. Julie Johnson pleaded not guilty to seven related counts. Deputies went to the Mitchell County Regional Health Center on November 24 where Johnson worked through an employment agency, but was not an employee of the facility.

House Fire in Marshalltown, Everybody OK

What caused a house fire in Marshalltown? Fire crews say they don't know, but they do know that everybody got out okay. It happened around 11 Tuesday night, and after his mom went to bed, a teen who lives at the house stayed up to chat on facebook. He heard a neighbor outside yelling, went to the door to find out his house was on fire, and so got everyone, including the pets out safely. The fire spread quickly, but fire crews were faster and were able to save part of the house.

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Davenport Man Gets 50-years for Molesting Sisters

A Davenport man's been sentenced to 50-years in prison for molesting three sisters. 25-year old Jaymie Souder was turned in by one of the girls who told someone at her school. The girls mother, who was Souder's girlfriend, has been charged with neglect and child endangerment for not stopping the attacks

Huxley Infant deaths

Huxley police and the DCI have released new information in the deaths of twin girls. According to KCCI, police were called Saturday to make welfare check on 22-year old Jackie Burke. Burke was found in a duplex where she'd given birth to the baby girls. The infants didn't survive, and their bodies were found in the trunk of Burke's car in her driveway. Burke was treated at a hospital, and investigators are waiting for lab results on the infants.

Branstad Says He'd Consider Hiking Gas Tax

In his Condition of the State speech today, Gov. Branstad said he'd consider signing a bill to raise the gas tax. Branstad also says he's throwing in the towel on ending free statewide preschool. The Des Moines Register reports the governor says the gas tax hike would not be for the budget year starting July 1st, since he expects the transportation department to come in with a proposal for saving $40-to-$60-million that'll be switched to road work.

Wind Advisory

The NWS in Sioux Falls has issued a wind advisory, from 6 am to 6 pm tomorrow. The winds are expected to hit 25 to 35 mph with wind gusts near 40 through the day. You can expect wind chills in the teens and single digits.

Iowa Business Involved in Boeing 787

Quatro Composites of Orange City's gotten a contract to make parts for Boeing's 787 jet. Quatro will be making stowage bin fittings. The company designs and fabricates composite materials. KCCI reports Quatro President Steve Roesner says they'll work with Boeing on tooling, parts certification, testing and production. Quatro Composites makes and designs items for the aerospace, military, industrial and medical businesses.

As Dixville Notch Goes, So Goes...

Not only is New Hampshire the first to go to the polls in the primary, but Dixville Notch is the first in New Hampshire to go to the polls. The village voted at midnight and this time, its a tie. Boston dot com reports that nine ballots were cast and here's how it went: 2 for Romney, 2 for Huntsman, one for Gingrich, one for Paul, and 3 Democrats chose President Obama. The village clerk said the nine who voted are the entire population of Dixville Notch.

USDA to Close Offices

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says it will close almost 260 offices and labs to save about 150 million dollars of its 145 billion dollar budget. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said that the agency has to quote "be better stewards of the taxpayers dollars". Those on the other side of the issue say they're concerned most about food safety in the wake of closing the offices.

Monday, January 9, 2012

WDM Student Charged with Assault on School Worker

A Valley High School student's been arrested for assault and disorderly conduct after attacking a school employee. A West Des Moines Police spokesperson says 16-year old Brayden Dunagan-Hobbs had an argument with a school employee in study hall last Thursday, and was ordered to report to the office. Dunagan-Hobbs refused, picked up an overhead projector and tried to throw it at the staffer. Instead it hit and injured another student.

Drake Names New Provost

Deneese Jones will become Drake University Provost June 1st. The university introduced her today, and she will be in charge of all of Drake's academic programs, library, student activities and other areas. The Des Moines Register reports Jones comes from Longwood University in Virginia, where she's been Dean of the College of Education and Human Services since 2005. Jones replaces Michael Renner, who quit in April.

Mason City Police Looking for Newborn

Mason City Police need your help finding a baby. KCCI's reports Iowa Workforce Development cleaning staff found the placenta and umbilical cord for a newborn in a bathroom Saturday. The mother's been identified as 19-year old Chanel Hanley of Charles City, who's refusing to cooperate with police. The child's between 29-and-32-weeks old and weighs an estimated 3 pounds. Call 641-421-3636 if you have any information.

Police Find Missing Iowa Woman's Car in Missouri

Authorities say they've found Sharon Hopf's car at an abandoned home just outside Wright City, Mo., but she's still missing. KCCI reports the Iowa businesswoman was reported missing Thursday when she didn't show up for work at a company she owns in Kalona. The Washington County Sheriff says her cell phone signal disappeared shortly after she left her home Crawfordsville for work. Police in Iowa and Missouri are continuing the investigation.

DM Police Don't Know if Weekend Shooting Victim Was Gunman's Target

Des Moines Police say they don't know if the person who shot 23-year old Teandre Trumbo-Talton intended to kill him. Trumbo-Talton was standing on a sidewalk with some friends early Saturday outside Paul Revere's Pizza when he was shot. He died at Mercy Hospital. According to KCCI, a man drove up, got out of his car, fired several times into the group and drove away. If you have information, call 5415-283-4869.

Car of Missing Woman Found

A missing Iowa businesswoman is still missing, but her car was found near St Louis. The Washington County Sheriff said 45 year old Sharon Hopf didn't show up for work last Thursday and was reported missing. Now, investigators are combing her 1999 white Chevy Lumina for clues that might lead to her or what happened to her. Hopf owns Hopf Home Furnishings in Coralville and Kalona.

Greenfield Police Investigate Hazing

Police are investigating allegations of hazing in a Greenfield school. KCCI reports that Greenfield police officers said the incident happened in late December at Nodaway Valley High School and involved the school's wrestling team. The police chief said the incident involved several students and confirmed detectives are already conducting interviews and collecting evidence. A Greenfield woman said she didn't want her name out there, but that she knows the victim, that the attack happened in the school's locker room after the 16 year old wrestler missed a meet. She said several teammates attacked the boy. The school said while no wrestling meets have been canceled, students safety comes first.

Friday, January 6, 2012

Iowa State Panel Decisions Could Cost Cities Millions

Iowa's Property Assessment Appeal Board will make decisions in the next few weeks on whether or not to lower the assessed value of commercial properties in four of the state's biggest cities. That decision could cost Des Moines, West Des Moines, Clive and Urbandale up to $155-million combined in taxes; and Polk County and school districts in those cities could lose millions more.

Authorities say Delaware County Woman Killed by 10-year Old

Delaware County Sheriff's are continuing the investigation of last night's death of 41-year old Amy Hettinger. She was shot in the head last night inside her home on 120th Street in Dundee. Authorities say she was shot by a 10-year old girl who'd been handling a loaded handgun at the time of the shooting.

MidAmerican Adding Wind Turbines

MidAmerican Energy's got three new wind turbine projects in the works that'll add 176 in the state by the end of the year. The new turbines will be in five counties, including Adair and Marshall. They'll keep MidAmerican as the No. 1 rate-regulated utility in the U.S. in ownership of wind-powered capacity. KCCI reports when done, MidAmerican will own 2,285 megawatts of wind generation, or 29% of total generation capacity.

Winterset Teacher Charged with Sex Exploitation

A Winterset Elementary School third grade teacher's been charged today with three counts of sexual exploitation by a school employee, after police say he was spotted kissing two juvenile girls and fondling one of them during separate incidents in September 2011. The Des Moines Register reports 26 year old Drew Lipovac could get 9-years in prison. A school employee claims Lipovac had inappropriate physical contact with at least one female high school student.

Cedar Rapids Boy Shot in Head--Doesn't Go to Hospital for 3 Days

Cedar Rapids Police say a 13-year-old boy didn't go to the hospital for three days after he was shot twice in the head New Year's Day. KCCI reports the boy says he heard gun shots when we was taking out the trash, but didn't know he'd been hit until he got inside. He was staying with a friend while his mom was out of town. When she got back home she rushed him to a hospital where he was treated and released.

Iowa City Schools Hire Teachers

Within the next two weeks, the Iowa City school district says it will hire about eight teachers to cut the size of some elementary school classes. The Iowa City Press-Citizen reports that will do the hiring by January 17, the eight will be disbursed through seven schools and they'll be considered long term subs. That way, superintendent Steve Murley says the district will have more flexibility, and can hire them right away.

5 Hurt in Crash Thursday

Multiple ambulances were called to a crash near Woodward on Thursday. KCCI is reporting that Iowa State Patrol said five people were taken to Des Moines hospitals with what were believed to be non-life threatening injuries. Troopers said a teen driver was southbound on Highway 210 when their vehicle hit a black SUV with two adults and two children inside. The black SUV flipped onto its top. Rescue crews had to extricate the teen driver from their vehicle. The crash closed the highway for more than an hour. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Man Casts Doubt on Who Won Iowa Caucus

Are the caucus numbers right? That's the question being raised by a Ron Paul supporter in rural Iowa, after he says the numbers he helped tablulate showed a 20-vote discrepancy that, if verified, would make Rick Santorum the winner in Iowa. Only 53 people caucused in Moulton. Edware True says he noted results as they were tabulated, and shows 2 votes for Mitt Romney. The official report lists 22 votes. True says he hopes it is a mistake. Party officials say he is not a precinct captain or county chairperson, so he has no business talking about results. The process of certifying the caucus is still being completed.

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Lawmakers Confident on Reaching Commercial Property Tax Deal

Leaders of the legislature say they may be close to a deal to reform commercial property taxes. According to KCCI democrats, who control the senate, say they think they can come to terms with the governor and the GOP controlled house. A big hurdle will be phasing in reductions in commercial property taxes over a longer period of time. The governor says cutting those taxes is key to his economic development plan.

Where Will Money For Ed Reforms Come From?

We don't have specifics on how lawmakers will pay for Gov. Branstad's education reform plans, but the Des Moines Register reports there are hints that money set aside for other purposes, may be tapped to pay for the reforms. Using money from the sales tax for schools to pay for proposed reforms would receive stiff opposition from Iowa lawmakers from both parties as well as from local school officials. That tax raises around $380 million a year.

Iowa PIRG Says Pass on Nuke Plants

Iowa Public Interest Research group says the state should pass on nuclear power plants unless they can generate electricity at lower cost than other options, including energy conservation. The Des Moines Register says Iowa PIRG also says if MidAmerican Energy wants to build a nuke plant, it should be their shareholders who take the financial risk, not rate payers.

Cargill Closing DM Soybean Crushing Plant

Cargill's shutting down its Des Moines soybean crushing plant, eliminating 22-jobs. KCCI reports Cargill will be spending $20-million on an upgrade to a Cedar Rapids plant that does the same work. The Des Moines plant will close February 4th. A company spokesperson says people eating less meat's one of the reasons for their decision, letting it focus more on the more competitive soybean side of the business.

Mystery Surrounds SCC Bball Season

Why did Southeastern Community College forfeit the rest of its men's basketball season? That's a good question, to which we're not getting any answers. Ten player were kicked off the team after a campus burglary, but nobody at the school is talking about why the team gave up the games. Police went to the school last month when a coach reported a break in, but was told the school would handle it, so there was no report filed. When somebody asked the school's president about the burglary, she said there was no burglary at SCC, and blew off all other comments.

Judge Orders Both Moms' Names on Birth Certificate

The Iowa health department has been ordered by a Polk county Judge to issue a birth certificate with both lesbian parents names on it for their two year old daughter. That ruling came down yesterday and the judge said her order supports the striking down of the state's supreme court ban on same sex marriage. Heather and Melissa Gartner, who live in Des Moines, sued to have both parents names on young Mackenzie Gartner's birth certificate so she'd have two parents like most kids. The department is reviewing the ruling.

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Perry Reassessing Campaign

Texas Governor Rick Perry said he's heading home to reassess after his showing in last night's Iowa caucus. Perry got ten percent of the votes following Mitt Romney, Rick Santorum, Ron Paul and Newt Gingrich. Perry's next strategic move would have been to campaign in South Carolina, but he's now thinking about it. Perry got into the race after the Ames straw poll, sored to the top of the numbers, and then fell back, behind Romney and Santorum.

Caucus Win for Romney is Just 8 Votes

If the results were this close in the election, it'd probably be headed for the Supreme Court, but since the 8-vote margin for Mitt Romney over Rick Santorum happened in the caucus, there's no recount planned. Ron Paul finished a close third, according to the state GOP. Texas Gov. Rick Perry, who placed fifth, said late Tuesday that he would return to his home state to consider whether his campaign would continue. Romney and Santorum each had roughly 25% of the vote. Paul, a U.S. representative from Texas, had 21%. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich was at 13%. Perry was at 10%, Rep. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota had 5%, and former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman had 1%.

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Caucus Day's Here

By some estimates, as many as 120,000 republican voters will be out tonight to make their choices for the GOP presidential nominee in the Iowa caucuses.The most recent polling puts the race in the three way heat between Mitt Romney, Ron Paul, and Rick Santorum, but that Des Moines Register poll also says 41% of those with a first choice, are still open to changing their choice. The campaign for caucus votes has been underway for almost a year.

Commodity Prices Close Higher First Trading Day of New Year

Corn and soybeans continued their 2011 year end rally today on the Chicago Board of Trade, with March corn closing up 12 cents per bushel to $6.58 and March soybeans up 20 cents per bushel to $12.18. The Des Moines Register's reporting hogs were also up on the first trading day of the new year, picking up $1.22/ hundredweight to $85.32 for March delivery.

DM Airport Officials Issue Warning for Tomorrow and Thursday

Des Moines Airport officials say expect 50% more people than normal flying out of the airport tomorrow and Thursday. That's because a lot of the media and others who are in the state for the caucuses will be getting out of town. The Des Moines Register says they're offering suggestion: including check your flight status early and often, get to the airport at least two hours early, and have your government issued photo ID ready.

Caucus Occupy

Both major political parties and Des Moines area police agencies say they're ready for any problems tonight if protests are staged by Occupy Des Moines. The Des Moines Register says there've been rumors circulating that Occupy members may try to disrupt caucus meetings tonight. That's led GOP officials to move the central vote reporting site to an undisclosed location.

Iowa's Top Court Tor Review Becker Conviction

Iowa's Supreme Court will review the case of 26-year old Michael Becker. He claims he was legally insane when he shot and killed Ed Thomas, football coach at Aplington-Parkersburg high school in June 2009. A jury didn't buy it and convicted him of first degree murder in June 2010, and he was sentenced to life in prison. An appeals court upheld the conviction, rejecting arguments that the jury was improperly instructed on the insanity defense.

Perry Trying to Come From Behind

Texas Governor Rick Perry is like the horse in the last place in the Kentucky Derby, trying to pull off a come from behind win. He and his supporters gathered last night at the Hotel Pattee tor try to get the momentum moving toward a victory in tonight's caucus. The polls have recently shown Perry out of relevancy, and he's trying to stay relevant, so as to pull it off tonight, to make the photo finish.

Convenient: Frie Breaks Out Across The Street

Clinton firefighters quickly handled a blaze at an apartment building: It was right across the street from their station. Convenient. The fire started early Sunday and The Clinton Herald reports several apparatus were on the scene. Nobody was hurt and officials say the flames were contained on the building's back porch and were extinguished within minutes 2:50 a.m. alarm.

Monday, January 2, 2012

An Iowa City Leading Vote in Reader's Digest Contest

Lake City's topped a new Reader's Digest contest, and they want your help to staying there. KCCI reports it's the 'We Hear You America' contest and Lake City's looking for help with a pool project. The winner will get $50,000. Voting ends March 1st, and Lake City already has over 1.2-million votes. They want the vote of every Iowan. The contest website is: http://wehearyouamerica.readersdigest.com. You can vote early and often.

Man Arrested for Domestic Assault on Wife and Stepdad

Marshalltown Police say they arrested Javier Juarez over the weekend for domestic assault, and child endangerment, after they say he tried to stab his wife and stepfather New Years Eve. There were three children in the home at the time of the incident. The wife and stepfather were treated and released from, a hospital, Juarez is in the Marshall County Jail.

Arrests At Occupy Die In

Occupy protesters held what they called a "die-in" at the Hotel Savery in downtown. Witnesses tell KCCI about a dozen, out of 50-demonstrators, laid down on the floor of the lobby and refused to leave. The Des Moines Register reports they had dollar bills taped over their mouths to protest corporate money in politics, and the President's signing the Defense Authorization Act, allowing indefinite detentions by the military. Police arrested all twelve.

Weather Shouldn't Be Problem for Caucuses

If weather's a factor in Iowa Caucus turnout, then there should be plenty of people showing up tomorrow night. According to KCCI, the forecast says cold but dry. The day should be sunny in the mid 30's and tomorrow night clear skies with a low in the 20's.

Occupy Stages Die In

Occupy protesters held what they called a "die-in" today at the Hotel Savery in downtown Des Moines. Witnesses tell KCCI a group laid down on the floor of the hotel lobby and refused to leave. Des Moines Police were called in to deal with it.

Soldiers May Only Get Half for School

With nearly three thousand soldiers returning to Iowa from the Middle East, the money the government gives to GIs for college, some 3.1 million dollars will have to go even farther. So National Guard members who were expecting nearly all of their education to be paid by the bill, it will now only cover half the cost.

Undecideds Will Decide

The undecideds will decide who takes on Barack Obama for the White House this fall. The Iowa Caucus is tomorrow, and while some say Mitt Romney will win, others say until its over tomorrow night, there's a dead heat between Romney and Ron Paul. And those who step back and look at the bigger picture say its up for grabs until its over.

Teacher dies

Grief counselors will be available at Prairie Ridge Middle School after district officials said that teacher and varsity tennis coach Dennis Hoefle suffered a brain aneurysm last week and died. There was a candlelight vigil to remember Hoefle last night.




Sunday, January 1, 2012

If Romney wins, is it already over?

It seems every political writer, reporter and host is in the state this week, as the nation's first votes to find a republican nominee commences here Tuesday night. The final Des Moines Register poll, released last night, shows Mitt Romney with a small lead in a tight 3-way race for the top, with Ron Paul and Rick Santorum. Newt Gingrich placed a more distant 4th with only 12%. Should results hold, it's seen as a big boost for Romney who holds a substantial lead in next stop's New Hamphshire, just a week later. A non-incumbent has never won both Iowa and New Hampshire in the same year, since the GOP Iowa caucuses began to matter in 1980. The Christian Science Monitor says that if that happens, it "may be game over." Writing for the Monitor, reporter Linda Feldmann says "Romeny will have a lock on the Republican nomination, as the only candidate with momentum, big money, a national organization and substantial room for growth in his numbers." With candidates like Newt Gingrich in Virginia failing to even qualify for the ballot in the state he resides, internal organization questions abound for all besides Romney in whether there is an alternative candidate with the structure to compete for the duration of the primary process.

Final Register poll results

The final Des Moines Register poll before the Iowa caucuses confirms the erosion of Newt Gingrich's support and a surging Rick Santorum. In 4 days polling, Mitt Romney leads with 24% to Ron Paul's 22% and Rick Santorum's 15%. But a deeper look reveals Rick Santorum rising late. Taking only the final 2 days of the poll, Rick Santorum's support jumps from 15% to 20%, moving ahead of Ron Paul into 2nd place. State polls have remained fluid for months with no fewer than 6 different candidates shown leading over the past 6 months.

If Newt Gingrich finishes in 4th with 12%, some of his supporters fear his lead in South Carolina could collapse as well. Santorum's biggest issue moving forward from Iowa would be building momentum in such a short amount of time before New Hampshire's primary just a week later.

Should Romney win a tight-race on Tuesday night, it could help pave the way for a quicker nomination process. The former Massachusetts governor holds a commanding 27 point lead over his nearest competitor in New Hampshire, according to the latest CNN/Time poll.