Hollingshead Announces Candidacy

OGDEN, Iowa---Ogden native Chet Hollingshead has officially announced that he is running for Boone County Supervisor.  Hollingshead will be on the Republican Primary ballot on June 5th.  In a statement, Hollingshead said "Boone County is facing many challenges and we need conservative leadership at the courthouse."  Currently, Hollingshead is President of the Ogden School Board, first elected to the Board in 2009.

Baltimore Manages First Bill Through House

BOONE, Iowa---State Representative Chip Baltimore, Republican of Boone, managed the first bill of the year through the Iowa House Wednesday.  The bill received unanimous approval and puts into law Governor Terry Branstad's Executive Order that requires new rules to have a "Jobs Impact Statement".  Baltimore says it means state agencies look into the impact of rules and regulations before they're implemented.

Supervisors to Consider Trail Agreement

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors will give consideration to an amendment to a Joint Public Service Agreement between Boone and Polk Counties, Conservation Boards from Boone, Polk, Dallas and Story Counties and the Cities of Ankeny, Madrid, Sheldahl, Slater and Woodward.  The proposal would create a long term fund for future repairs on the High Trestle Trail.  All entities would contribute to the fund.  The Boone County Conservation Board was receptive to the proposal.  Conservation Director Andy Hockenson will discuss the proposal with the Supervisors.

Applicants Still Sought for Citizen's Police Academy

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone Police Department is once again planning their annual Citizen Police Academy.  Boone Police Chief Bill Skare says the program will begin February 23rd and will last until April 12th.  Skare says there's no cost, but it does require that anyone interested commit three hours each Thursday evening.  Skare says the program has proven to be pretty popular and basically it exposes the public to the operating procedures of the department.  Applications are available at various locations, including online.

"Y" Receives Monsanto Grant

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Family YMCA has been awarded a $15,000 grant from the Monsanto Fund to help cover the cost of renovating portions of the building.  Last Thursday, Steve Morman, Boone Monsanto Operations Manager presented the larger than life check to Jerry Mackie a Boone County Family YMCA Board Member and Vicki Greco the Boone County Family YMCA Executive Director.  The grant will help cover the cost of transitioning the wellness center and Child Watch program. 

ACS Daffodil Days

BOONE, Iowa---American Cancer Society volunteers have begun taking orders for the 2012 Boone County Daffodil Days.  Those that place orders will be able to pickup their purchases at the First United Methodist Church in Boone on Wednesday, March 14th.  Two years ago, Daffodil Days sponsors were sought and the number has grown to 14 this year.  But, Mary Maybee says their goal is to get daffodils to everyone in the county on March 14th.  She says orders for daffodils are being taken until mid-February.

Supervisor Continue Budget Work

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors will be meeting Tuesday in the board room at the Boone County Courthouse for a budget work session.  The Board has been collecting budget requests from various agencies that receive service from the county, but major portions of the budget have yet to be presented.  Public Safety, Secondary Roads and Mental Health are the three big portions of the overall county budget.  Last week, Boone County Transportation submitted a budget request for $60,000.  The amount is unchanged from a year ago.  This year, Boone County Transportation is receiving over $54,000.

Three Killed in Two Vehicle Accident Near Rippey

RIPPEY, Iowa---Three people were killed when two vehicles collided west of Rippey Sunday afternoon.  The Iowa State Patrol is conducting the investigation and reports that a car, operated by 42-year old David James Muir of Rippey went out of control and spun into a pickup driven by 54-year old Dwight Lee Snogren of Jamaica.  Muir's passenger, 19-year old Andrew Gordon Jackson of Orient and the two drivers died as a result of the impact.  The State Patrol has been unable to determine if weather was a contributing factor.

Public Debt Up $4.4 Million in Boone County

BOONE, Iowa---Public debt in Boone County, as calculated by the State of Iowa, totalled $68.7 million in the fiscal year 2011, up from $64.2 million in the 2010 fiscal year.  Public Debt for the City of Boone went up $2.4 million.  The City of Ogden went up nearly $1 million.  Both were financing mandated storm and sanitary sewer projects.  The other notable increase was the Ogden School District which had completed a construction project.  The current fiscal year has already seen a bond sale by the Boone School District with another expected in the next month.

New Historical Center Exhibit Opens Saturday

BOONE, Iowa---"Kate Shelley:  Boone County's Railroad Heroine" is the name of the new exhibit, opening Saturday at the Boone County Historical Center.  Executive Director Charles Irwin says will not only provide new information about Kate Shelley, but will also expand information with Boone County's railroad history.  Irwin says additional information is also made available about the major storm that struck Boone in July 1881 which triggered Shelley's act of heroism.  The new display will be available for public viewing Saturday from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Top 5 Radon Posters From Sacred Heart in Boone

BOONE, Iowa---Iowa's First Lady Chris Branstad joined several other Thursday in the Iowa Radon Poster Contest Awards Ceremony.  The easy part was that it was held in Boone at the Sacred Heart School.  That's because the top 5 were submitted by Sacred Heart Students.  5th place went to Amanda Brown, 4th place to Sean Fitzsimmons, 3rd place to Marie Volcko, 2nd place to Danny Anderson and 1st place went to Sarah Statz.  The 5 were selected from a field of 177.  More than 300 were initially entered in the statewide contest.

Conference Board Approves Vanguard Contract

BOONE, Iowa---The members of the Boone County Assessor's Conference Board have approved a contract with Vanguard Appraisal for the revaluation of Commercial and Industrial property in Boone County.  The revaluation was ordered by the Iowa Department of Revenue as part of the final equalization order last October.  Conference Board members were not pleased with the action, but had little choice to meet the demands of the Department of Revenue.  The contract identifies dollar amounts for properties and could amount to an estimated $197,000.

Libraries Submit '13 Budget Requests to Supervisors

BOONE, Iowa---Local librarians met with the Boone County Supervisors this week and submitted their annual budget request.  The three public libraries in Boone County have asked for the Board to allocated $80,700 for the next fiscal year.  The amount is the same request submitted the past two years.  This current fiscal year, the public libraries from Boone, Madrid and Ogden are splitting up $67,613.  As is the case, the Board has accepted the request with no guarantee and will consider it and others during budget preparation.

CAFO Expansion Planned

BOONE, Iowa---Last year, William Whitley of Birmingham, Alabama proposed the construction of a confined animal feeding operation in Jackson Township, northeast of Boone.  At the time, residents opposed to the development noted that Whitley could return and expand the operation.  That is the scenario coming to the Boone County Board of Supervisors.  The Board was informed that they will need to submit their master matrix scoring and recommendation to the Iowa DNR on the proposed expansion of Capstone Finishers.  The current facility holds just under 2,500 head and the additional structure will hold just over 2,700.  Information is available here.

Parent Forum on Bullying and Harassment Thursday

BOONE, Iowa---Parents or anyone that's interested is encouraged to attend the parent forum on bullying and harassment at the Boone Middle School Thursday evening at 7:00.  This week on Tuned In on KWBG, Sue Gradoville and Karlene Hughes said parents and the public are welcome to come and learn how Boone Schools addresses problems and also get questions answered.  School Resource Officer Dave Powers said the chance to visit face to face with staff and  parents can get a lot of questions answered.  The program will be held in the commons of the Boone Middle School.

Watershed Management Plan Gains Approval

BOONE, Iowa---Multiple groups, including landowners have helped develop a Watershed Management Plan for the Don Williams Lake in northern Boone County and last week, the US EPA approved the work.  The plan was developed over the last two-years and was submitted last November.  Don Williams Lake was added to the list of impaired waters in 1998 because of siltation and organic enrichment.  The plan outlines a 1,593 ton per year reduction in sediment over a 20-year planning cycle.  

Conference Board Meeting Includes Budget Discussion

BOONE, Iowa---A special meeting of the Boone County Conference Board will give the Board a chance to discuss the items for the assessor's budget for the next fiscal year.  With the recent resignation of D. Kevin Burggraaf, work on the budget has not been completed.  Budget preparation could fall to County Auditor Phil Meier who would be acting as Temporary Assessor for the purposes of developing a budget.  A budget needs to be developed and published so that a public hearing can be held prior to the Conference Board adopting the budget.  The budget is expected to include the cost of a third party revaluation of commercial and industrial property in Boone County, ordered by the Iowa Department of Revenue.

FFA Chapter Conducting Coat Drive

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone A&M FFA Chapter is conducting a Coat Drive to help local residents in need of a winter coat, caps, gloves or scarves.  Theresa Fitzgerald is President of the Boone Chapter and says they have a nice collection of items already, but anyone wishing to donate may do so by dropping off items at the Boone High School Principals Office on the first floor.  Fitzgerald says the club will distribute items to those needing some help, Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Ag Shop of the Boone High School.  She says the entrance is right off Monona Street.  Fitzgerald says coats that don't find a new home will be taken to the Boone County Homeless Shelter.

Council Hopes to Complete Budget Work Tuesday

BOONE, Iowa---Budget work for the Boone City Council has been moving ahead smoothly this month.  Boone Mayor John Slight, on Tuned In, said he hopes the Council will complete their budget work sessions Tuesday evening.  The Council will hear presentations from Department Heads and will eventually pass the information along to city staff for the preparation of a preliminary budget.  The formal public hearing on the budget is not expected until the Council's meeting on March 5th.

Duffy Sets Special Conference Board Meeting

BOONE, Iowa---Steve Duffy, Chairman of the Boone County Board of Supervisors has called a Special Meeting of the Boone County Assessors Conference Board for Wednesday evening.  The Assessors Conference had tentatively been set to meeting on January 24th, a meeting set a year ago for budget preparation.  However, Assessor D. Kevin Burggraaf has resigned and the office is currently under scrutiny by the Iowa Department of Revenue.  Duffy has said the meeting will include selecting a panel to review potential candidates to replace Burggraaf.

Historical Center to Unveil New Kate Shelley Exhibit

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Historical Society will host an opening of a new, professionally designed and updated exhibit called "Kate Shelley:  Boone County's Railroad Heroine".  Charles Irwin, says the new exhibit will feature a series of panels with text and photographs highlighting Kate Shelley's adventures the night of July 6th 1881.  But Irwin the exhibit will be expanded to include the flooding damage that occurred on Honey Creek through Boone that night.  The new exhibit will be unveiled Saturday afternoon, January 21st from 1:00 until 4:00.  The 21st also marks the 100th anniversary of the death of Kate Shelley.

Council Meetings

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Council will have a couple of busy days this week.  The Council will hold a regular meeting Monday evening and will also hold a budget work session on Tuesday evening at the Boone City Hall.  The regular Council Meeting will include public hearings on the annexation of portions of the industrial park east of Boone.  The budget work session will have the department heads making budget presentations for the next fiscal year.  The regular Monday meeting is at 7:00 PM.  The budget work session begins at 6:00 PM.

School Concept Drawings

BOONE, Iowa---Boone School Superintendent Brad Manard says work is well underway on the concept drawings for the Boone High School renovation and remodeling project.  Manard says architects for the DLR Group and quite a bit of work has been done on preparation of the general concept.  He says the design includes several ideas that  have been well received at other schools, including at Huxley, Ankeny and Southeast Polk.  Manard says over the next couple of weeks, extensive staff input will be sought.  The timeline calls for bids to be received by late spring.

Pufferbilly Logo and Theme

BOONE, Iowa---The Pufferbilly Days Steering Committee has announced the winners of the 2012 logo and theme contest.  The theme is "Riding the Rails Along Scenic Trails" with a logo featuring a train that spells our Pufferbilly Days through the center.  The winning theme was submitted by Betty Wilhelm and the winning logo was designed by Susannah Cunningham, both from Boone.  The theme and logo will be officially unveiled later this spring.  Pufferbilly Days will be held September 6th through September 9th.

House Fire

LOGANSPORT, Iowa---The Boone and Ogden Fire Departments along with additional emergency responders were at the scene of a house fire north of Boone Thursday afternoon.  The early report had flames beginning to come through the roof of the home as fire fighters got to the scene.  There were no immediate reports of injuries.  The cause was not available.  Additional information from authorities was not available at this time.

Process Begins to Replace Assessor

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors began taking steps Wednesday to fill the position of Boone County Assessor.  D. Kevin Burggraaf resigned Monday.  Supervisor Steve Duffy is Chairman of the Board and also serves as Chairman of the Assessor's Conference Board and says he is required to notify the Iowa Department of Revenue of the vacancy.  Duffy will also be able to request a list of candidates to consider for the position.  As Chair of the Conference Board, Duffy is expected to call a meeting of the Conference Board to choose an Exam Committee to lead the search for a new assessor.

Board Chooses 2012-13 School Calendar

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone School calendar doesn't include a spring break this year, but it will return next year, if the Board completes action on a planned early start during their next regular meeting.  The calendar being promoted by the Board, on a 3-1 vote, would include spring break and would start in mid-August.  The calendar is comparable to the Ames School calendar.  The School Board will conduct a required public hearing in February for the change in the early start for the next school year.

Assessor Resigns

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Assessor D. Kevin Burggraaf has resigned as the Boone County Assessor.  Chairman of the Boone County Supervisors, Steve Duffy, announced the receipt of the letter Monday afternoon.  Duffy serves as Chair of the Assessor's Conference Board and said he expects to call a special meeting to accept the resignation and decide how to proceed to fill the vacancy.  The Conference is slated to meet on January 24th to consider the Assessors budget for the fiscal year.  There is also the matter of bid to complete the Department of Revenue mandated revaluation of commercial and industrial property in Boone County.

Another Council Budget Worksession

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors will hold their second in a series of budget work session on Tuesday evening at the Boone City Hall.  Monday night, the Council considered requests for Hotel Motel Tax dollars.  The Tuesday meeting will focus on the Capital Improvement Projects for the city.  Administrator Luke Nelson says general CIP are projects that cost over $12,000.  The Council will also review departmental requests for the use of the Local Option Sales Tax.  75% of the tax can be used for Capital Projects and Capital Purchases.  20% goes to property tax relief and the remaining 5% is directed to Human Service programs.

High Trestle Trail Maintenance Fund

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Conservation Commission is supportive of a proposed 28-E Agreement which would have partners on the High Trestle Trail contribute toward a fund that would be used for trail maintenance and repairs in the future.  The agreement would call on Boone County to pay $5,000 annually to build the fund.  Other members would contribute varying amounts.  Commission members felt the agreement would be beneficial for Boone County, because a large portion of the trail and the bridge itself are located in Boone County.  The High Trestle Trail Steering Committee will consider action on the agreement later this week.  The agreement would also go to the Boone County Supervisors for their approval.

Fire Department Holds Awards Banquet

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone Fire Department hosted is first ever Awards Banquet on Sunday at the Boone City Hall.  Fire Chief Justin Adams says the intent is to turn it into an annual event to recognize the growing number of fire fighters and families that dedicated and committed to providing a safe environment to the community.  Fire Fighters selected Josh Lemon as the Rookie Fire Fighter of the Year.  Captain Chip Zehner as the Fire Fighter of the Year.  The Life Saver Award went to Fire Fighters Todd Kennedy and Clint McFarland when they responded to a call to R&W last year.  And the Fire Chief's Award went to Greg Eckstrom, part of the paid on call team of fire fighters.

Boone Police Breakup Underage Drinking Party

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Police Officers have charged a number of underage individuals with illegal possession of alcohol after breaking up a party in the 200 block of Ringgold about 1:00 Saturday morning.  Several young people were cited and released but a group aged 15, 16 and 17 were released to adults.  One 20-year old was charged with underage possession of alcohol.  Shane Michael Gibbs was also charged with Child Endangerment and was taken to the Boone County Jail.  A list of names from the incident on January 7th can be found here.

Friday Accident Update

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Police have released information on a car-pedestrian accident in downtown Boone Friday afternoon.  Authorities report that the accident occurred about 5:45 on Story Street near the intersection with 9th Street.  59-year old Jean Elsberry crossed the road and was struck by a south bound vehicle operated by 70-year old Luella Miller.  Elsberry was struck in the leg and was taken by ambulance to the Boone County Hospital.  Miller was not charged by the investigating officer.

Radon Program Planned

BOONE, Iowa---January is Radon Awareness Month and Mike Salati, Boone County Health and Sanitation, a part of Boone County Planning and Development will be hosting a series of seminars to inform the public about the dangers of radon.  Salati says he considers radon to be a serious public health issue, but one that can be dealt with by testing, taking steps to remedy the problem and in turn offering a health environment.  Salati has free seminars planned for Boone and Ogden.  Information on the first seminar is available here.

Pedestrian Struck Friday

BOONE, Iowa---Details have not been released, but a pedestrian was stuck by a car in downtown Boone late Friday afternoon.  The Boone County Communication Center reported that Boone Police received the call about a quarter to six, near 9th and Story Streets.  Emergency personnel did report one person being transported to the Boone County Hospital, but were not at liberty to release information on the identity or the condition of the patient.  Boone Police are conducting the investigation and were assisted by the Boone Fire Department, Fire and Rescue and the Boone County Ambulance.

DMACC Housing Expansion

BOONE, Iowa---Last month, DMACC Boone Campus Provost Tom Lee said plans were coming together to move ahead with another apartment building on the Boone Campus.  Originally, High Development had constructed the apartments for student housing.  A few years ago, Lee proposed taking over the complex and since then has seen an additional building constructed and a waiting list of students wanting to live in the apartments.  The Boone City Plan and Zoning Commission will meet Monday and will consider a site plan for the next apartment building.

Council Holds Special Meeting Monday

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Council will hold a special meeting Monday to give consideration to request for funding from the city's Hotel Motel Tax.  The deadline for various agencies to submit funding requests was Thursday afternoon.  14-requests will be considered for either full or partial funding by the Council.  Boone Mayor John Slight says the requests for funding will certainly exceed the amount the Council has available to allocate.  

Community Blood Drive Monday

BOONE, Iowa---January is National Blood Donor Month and LifeServe Blood Center will be holding a one-day community blood drive in Boone, Monday afternoon.  The drive is sponsored by the Boone County Hospital Auxiliary and will be held 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Boone Senior Citizens Center at 1112 Story Street.  Appointments are encouraged and can be made online at www.lifeservebloodcenter.org or by calling toll free 800-287-4903.

Theatre Auditions Monday and Tuesday

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Community Theatre is moving ahead with plans for their first production of 2012.  Mary Maybee and Scott Porter are Co-Directing "Steel Magnolias" and will hold auditions for a half dozen women's roles on Monday and Tuesday.  Maybee says a variety of parts are available for women in their late teens on up.  Porter says the plans are to push for a dinner theatre with four productions in late March.  Auditions will be held at the Boone Community Theatre and Play House at 106 S. Webster Street beginning at 7:00 each evening.

DCI Investigation Complete

BOONE, Iowa---The Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation into an allegation made against former Boone Police Officer Rodney Thompson has been completed and the investigative report has been forwarded to the Iowa Attorney General's Office for review and a charging decision.  The investigation was the result of an allegation made by a mother about what she felt were inappropriate text messages to her 15-year old daughter.  Thompson was place on administrative leave last August 15th and resigned on August 17th.

Chamber Focus Member Service

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kurt Phillips says the adage is true, a Chamber of Commerce is only as strong as it's members.  Phillips says in 2012, recruiting more members for the Chamber will be a priority, but maintaining and serving the current members is a must.  Phillips on KWBG Thursday said the Chamber Board of Directors will be instrumental in helping to obtain those goals this year.

Record High Temperatures

BOONE, Iowa---Record high temperatures were reported all through the upper Midwest Thursday.  For Boone, unofficially the mercury topped out at 62 degrees, surpassing a reading of 59 degrees set in 1956.  The unseasonably warm weather is a continuation of the last three weeks of December.  State Climatologist Harry Hillaker reported the average temperature was over 12 degrees warmer than normal.  A normal daytime high would be around 30 degrees and the overnight low would be about 10 degrees.

Home Destroyed by Fire

OGDEN, Iowa---Four fire departments, sheriff's deputies, Boone County Ambulance, Boone County Emergency Management and Boone County Search and Rescue spent several hours battling a house fire in rural Boone County Tuesday.  The initial call was received about a quarter after eleven and many responders were on the scene until mid afternoon.  The William and Susan Bogue home on 223rd Place was destroyed.  Boone Fire Chief Justin Adams said Boone Fire responded for mutual aid.  He says strong winds made fighting the fire very difficult.  A couple of fire fighters were checked at the scene for smoke and heat related issues.

Boone County Republicans Support Santorum

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Republicans turned out in force Tuesday's caucuses.  Those taking part in the presidential preference vote cast their ballot for Senator Rick Santorum followed by Congressman Ron Paul then Governor Mitt Romney.  At the Boone Caucus site at DMACC, a handful of people were not included in the process because they arrived after 7:00 PM.  Party officials have said registration was held from 5:30 to 7:00 and then the doors were closed to begin the caucus.  As it was, there was a very big turnout locally. Results can be found here.

Deadline Approaches For Grant Applications

BOONE, Iowa---Every year, the Boone City Council accepts applications for a portion of the city's Hotel Motel Tax and the deadline for the next fiscal year is rapidly approaching.  In fact the deadline is 5:00 PM on Thursday.  Boone City Administrator Luke Nelson says the Council will award funds to facilities and services in the areas of recreation, convention, culture, entertainment and economic development.  More information on the program is available on the city website www.boonegov.com.  No applications are accepted after the 5:00 PM deadline.

County Board To Hear Budget Requests

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors will continue the process of collecting budget requests for a number of departments and agencies.  A few requests for the 2013 Fiscal Year have already trickled in, and over the next couple of weeks, many others will be received.  Wednesday, the Boone County Fair Board will be submitting their budget request.  Charles Irwin will appear on behalf of the Boone County Historical Society and Michele Hull will submit a proposal for the RSVP program.  The Board always cautions that submitting a request doesn't mean funds will be available to fill the request.

Supervisors Select Duffy as Chair

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Supervisors officially made Steve Duffy, the Chairman for the next year. The selection is part of the organizational meeting held Tuesday.  Some of the routine business is to make appointments to Boards and Commissions.  There are still a few appointments to make and recommendations on those appointments are pending.  The Board has campaigned to have people interested in being a part of the  governmental process to let them know so they can build a list of candidates for boards and commissions.  

House Fire

OGDEN, Iowa---Numerous agencies responded to a house fire on 223rd Place in Boone County Tuesday.  Not a lot of details have been released at this time.  The home, owned by William and Susan Bogue, was reported on fire late Tuesday morning.  The Ogden Fire Department, Boone Fire Department, Ogden First Responders, Boone County Ambulance, the Boone County Sheriff's Department, Boone County Emergency Management and Boone County Search and Rescue.  The cause of the fire hasn't been determined at this time. There were no immediate reports of any injuries.

Sheriff Announces Retirement Plans

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Sheriff Ron Fehr says he will retire after this year, completing six-terms as Sheriff of Boone County.  Fehr began with the Sheriff's Department as a Deputy in 1982.  He will have been in law enforcement 33-years when he retires the end of this year.  His formal announcement has opened the door for others to announce plans to seek the office.  Already, Chief Deputy Gregg Elsberry has indicated plans to seek the Democratic nomination and the Boone County E911 Coordinator and former Iowa State Highway Patrolman Rick Lampe has announced that he will seek the Republican nomination for Sheriff.  

Supervisors Organizational Meeting Tuesday

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors will conduct their annual organizational meeting, Tuesday in the board room at the Boone County Courthouse.  The meeting will determine the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Board.  Meeting dates will be set, depositories and so on.  There are usually a number of additional, routine business matters that are addressed.  The regular, weekly meeting for the Supervisors is still expected to be held on Wednesday.

Boone County Caucuses

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County voters will have a few locations for Tuesday's first in the nation presidential caucuses.  Republicans will be meeting at the DMACC Boone Campus Gym, at the Madrid Junior-Senior High School and at the Ogden Middle School.  For Democrats, caucus goers will be gathering at the Boone High School Library, the Leonard Good Library in Ogden and also at the Madrid Public Library.  Each party has different precincts meeting at designated locations.  Many will begin by signing in, starting as early as 5:30 with the caucuses beginning at 7:00 PM.

TreeCycle Program Begins Sunday

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County residents have long supported the Boone County TreeCycle program and the same is expected again this year.  The program takes real Christmas trees and mulches the trees for use in the parks in Boone County.  Lisa Anderson, Boone County Environmental Coordinator says residents are invited to take their real trees, clean them of decorations, ornaments, tinsel, tree stands and drop them off at designated locations.  She says the program is free of charge and will run from the 1st through the 15th of January.  Additional information is available here.

Teams Already Registering For Wellness Challenge

BOONE, Iowa---Nicole Bruce, Director of Live Healthy Iowa says teams are already signing up for the next 100 Day Wellness Challenge, beginning in January.  On the KWBG "Tuned In" Program Friday, Bruce said registration started on December 20th.  She says the online registration is the easiest way for people to sign up or learn more about the program.  Bruce says there is a nominal fee to register, but coupons to lower the cost are available.  She says those that are interested can chose to record activity or weight loss or both.  Information on getting a team registered is available at www.livehealthyiowa.org.

Multiple Injuries In Thursday Accident

BOONE, Iowa---Three people were taken to the Boone County Hospital Thursday evening, following a multiple vehicle accident on US Highway 30 west of Boone.  Sheriff Ron Fehr says deputies investigated the accident that started when a pickup with a trailer full of hay was struck by a vehicle that was apparently struck by yet a third vehicle.  Taken to the Boone County Hospital were 21-year old Megan Engleen of Boone, 20-year old Curtis Sievers of Jefferson and 19-year old Joseph Hupp of Scranton.  None of the injuries were considered life threatening.

Candidates Announce

BOONE, Iowa---Most of the political campaign focus is on the Presidential candidates in Iowa, but after the Caucuses next Tuesday, attention will turn to the June Primary and local candidates for public office.  After winning a term for Boone County Sheriff in 2008, Ron Fehr indicated it may be his last term.  If Fehr decides to retire, there are already candidates that have shown an interest in running.  Current Chief Deputy, Gregg Elsberry has indicated he will seek the Democratic nomination for Sheriff.  Rick Lampe of Ogden, retired from the Iowa State Patrol and currently the Boone County E911 Coordinator, has indicated he will seek the Republican nomination for Sheriff.  

Compensation Board Asked to Reconsider Increases

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Compensation Board met earlier this month to consider recommendations for salary increases for Boone County elected officials.  The Board's recommendations go to the Supervisors and can be accepted, lowered or rejected outright.  The last couple of years, proposed increases were eliminated.  This year, the Compensation Board recommended dollar amount increases based on salaries for similar positions in similar sized counties.  The proposal created some issues for the Supervisors and for Department heads as well.  A letter is being prepared, asking the Compensation Board of reconvene and reconsider their recommendations.

Special Conference Board Meeting Delayed

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Attorney Jim Robbins told the Boone County Supervisors that they currently have the authority to call a special meeting of the Assessor's Conference Board, however he also encouraged the Board to give Assessor D. Kevin Burggraaf a chance to respond to issues raised by the Iowa Department of Revenue.  The Assessor's Conference Board is expected to hold a regular, annual meeting January 24th to consider the Assessor's Budget.  A second, special meeting could be held in February to address the Revenue Department's concerns over the handling of the Commercial and Industrial Valuations in Boone County.

One Injured in Single Vehicle Rollover

BOONE, Iowa---23 year old Mandy Cox sustained an apparent broken ankle when she lost control and rolled her vehicle north of Boone Tuesday afternoon.  Boone County Sheriff Ron Fehr says Cox was traveling north and lost control when her front tire went onto the shoulder.  She was taken to the Boone County Hospital by ambulance, where she was treated.  Investigators estimated damages to her vehicle at $5,000.  Cox was alone in her vehicle at the time of the accident.

Snow Removal Budget Looks Good

BOONE, Iowa---The good news about the extremely mild weather this fall and during the first few days of winter is the condition of the city's snow removal budget.  A year ago, Boone City Administrator Luke Nelson noted that the city had gone through a good portion of the budget as well as supplies of salt and sand.  Things have been quite a bit better this December.  Public Works has actually been out three or four times to spread sand and salt at intersections because of slippery conditions.

Arrest Made in Stabbing Incident

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Sheriff Ron Fehr says his department has charged 22-year old Blaine R. Snyder of Boone in connection with a stabbing incident at a party east of Boone last Saturday night.  Fehr says injuries to 18-year old Bailie J. Biersner led to a Felony Serious Assault charge.  Injuries to 18-year old Jackson Martin led to a charge of Aggravated Assault.  Injuries to Biersner were to her face and resulted in 60-stitches.  Fehr says she is receiving additional treatment at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines.  Martin was treated and released from the Boone County Hospital.

Hiker Falls at Ledges

BOONE, Iowa---Emergency personnel answered a call to the Ledges State Park Wednesday afternoon, to rescue a hiker who fell while hiking on the Lost Lake Trail.  Detailed information is not available at the present time, but the hiker was apparently had to be approached off the Des Moines River.  Boone County Sheriff's Deputies, Boone County Ambulance, Boone Fire and Rescue, Boone County Search and Rescue and park personnel handled the rescue.  The unidentified individual was taken to a hospital in Des Moines. 

Tree Trimming Continues

BOONE, Iowa---Mild weather conditions have allowed Boone Public Works personnel to continue their efforts trimming street trees.  Boone Mayor John Slight this week said he was pleased with the amount of work Public Works was able to complete this year.  The trimming of street trees, those on the parking, have been an issue for Slight.  He feels the city should deal with the trimming while city code says it's the responsibility of the property owner.  Public Works and Parks Director John Rouse says city personnel are now working on the south half of the city.

Supervisors to Consider Property/Liability Insurance

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors will be making a choice on property and liability insurance quotes when they meet Wednesday.  Currently the coverage is with Quam Insurance and the Board has also received information on coverage from Boehm Insurance.  Presentations were made to the Board last Wednesday.  Since then Supervisors have been comparing the information, seeking the most cost effective coverage.  Usually quotes for insurance coverage is sought every three years.

Frosty Conditions Cause Accidents

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Sheriff Ron Fehr reported that his department had 4-single vehicle accidents between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM Monday.  Fehr noted that frosty, slippery road conditions were to blame for all the accidents.  The first occurred on the west side of Boone, one at the junction of Highways 30 and 17, one  on Kale Road near Fraser and one north of Boone on Nature Road.  At least two people were transported by ambulance and another visited the hospital by private vehicle.  No serious injuries were reported.  Fehr noted that mild weather conditions have limited drivers exposure to slippery road conditions.

Council Decides Stop Sign Unnecessary

BOONE, Iowa---Since the traffic control system at South Story Street and Park Avenue has malfunctioned, public works has left a 4-way stop sign in the intersection, even though the signals are all flashing red.  City Council Member Gary Nystrom brought the matter up during Monday's Council meeting.  The Council decided that because of the traffic, it would be better to remove the 4-way stop sign and just go with the flashing red lights.  Parks and Public Works Director John Rouse says his department is still waiting for a newly constructed controller to install at the intersection.

Two Injured In Knifing at Party in Rural Boone.

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Sheriff Ron Fehr says Detectives are continuing their investigation into a stabbing incident, reported by the Boone County Hospital Emergency Room personnel Saturday night.  Fehr says an adult male teenager and and adult female teenager were at the party, reportedly at 2180 180th Street, about 6 miles east of Boone.  The female received severe slashes to the head and face and the male was slashed across the arm.  A suspect was located and a knife was confiscated.  Charges are pending.  The identity of those involved has not been released.

Frosty Roads Responsible for Multiple Accidents

BOONE, Iowa---Like many parts of the state, weather conditions this morning made the commute a trying affair.  Boone County Emergency Management Coordinator Dave Morlan says roads built up a frost cover as temperatures dropped.  Then traffic compacted the frost, creating a glazing condition.  At least four accidents were reported when vehicles left the road, hit the soft shoulder and ditch and then rolled.  A number of people were taken to the Boone County Hospital for treatment of injuries.  Conditions improved as throughout the morning.

Fire Department Recruiting Interested Volunteers

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone Fire Department is in the midst of it's annual campaign to attract interested people to be paid on call fire fighters.  Fire Chief Justin Adams says this is the third year recruiting and training will begin in mid-January.  He the paid on call effort has been as successful as he'd hoped it would be, but it's a constant effort to continue adding and replacing personnel.  Qualifications to apply for the paid on call program are available at the Fire Department Headquarters at 923 8th Street in Boone are on line at www.boonegov.com.

Baltimore Expects A Busy Session

BOONE, Iowa---Representative Chip Baltimore, Republican Representative from Boone, says the legislature will have some important matters to deal with beginning in January.  Baltimore on the KWBG "Tuned In" program says he thinks some progressive things can be done for mental health services in the state.  He also says there will be a big focus on education reform.  However, he still expects most of the attention to be on the economy and jobs.  The legislature will convene on January 9th.

Duffee Recognized at Gold Star Event

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Veteran Ray Duffee will be part of a presentation honoring World War II Heroes, Saturday afternoon at the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum at Camp Dodge in Johnston.  Duffee's story as a Navy Corpsman with the Marines at the Battle of Tarawa is included in a book by Scott McGaugh called Battlefield Angels.  Duffee is included in the list of special guests for the event that begins at 2:00 PM.  It is open to the public.

Tree Trimming Half Done

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Public Works and Parks Director, John Rouse, told the Boone Park Commission that the city's tree trimming program is half done when work was completed north of Mamie Eisenhower Avenue.  Rouse told the Commission this past week that trees in the parking had been trimmed when access was available.  Work will move south of Mamie Eisenhower and with luck will be completed in a year or so.  The Boone City Council has diverted funds used for tree planting to tree trimming rather than enforce the city ordinance requiring property owners to have the street trees trimmed.

Trail and Bridge Maintenance Fund

BOONE, Iowa---A number of participants in the High Trestle Trail and Bridge have been talking about developing an agreement that would require the groups to contribute money for a maintenance endowment fund.  Discussion could also include a Regional Trail District for maintenance and management consistency and sustainable funding.  The proposed 28-E agreement was only recently presented to the County Supervisors and  Conservation Board.  It's still to early to tell exactly how the plan will play out, but Boone County officials have been interested in seeing what develops.

Efforts Addressing Delinquent Bills Continues

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Utility Committee is on a mission to try and reduce the number of shut-offs and delinquent utility bills.  Staff told Committee members this week that the more they dug into the matter the more difficulties they encountered.  Part of the problem is that some of the soft ware used to develop reports hasn't matched up to usage reports.  Utility Committee Chair, Council member Gary Nystrom says working at reducing delinquencies will benefit all users of the city water system.

Boone County Family Y Hosts Open House

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Family YMCA is hosting a Silent Night-A Holiday Open House, Friday afternoon and evening.  Part of the event is inviting the public in to take a look at the work that was done following the fire a couple of months ago.  The fire was actually confined to a basement office, but there was extensive smoke damage.  The renovations includes moving some activities around and installing new equipment.  A Silent Auction will be held from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM.  Santa Claus is expected to participate.

Hope Foundation Has Successful Festival

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone Hope Foundation annual Festival of Hope Saturday turned out to be the biggest fund raiser the group has had.  At the end of the Festival on Saturday, the Foundation at $22,101.  The amount exceeded the $15,700 received last year and the more than $16,000 in 2009.  So far this year, the Hope Foundation has expended nearly $28,000 to assist more than 75 families and more than 130 Boone School District students.

Supervisors City Continue Talks On Paving

BOONE, Iowa---Businesses in the Boone Industrial Park are pushing for the city and the county to move ahead quickly with a plan to pave the Industrial Park Road and a portion of Quartz Avenue.  The road has not received much attention because of uncertainty about annexation.  The recent voluntary annexation agreement has taken care of the uncertainty.  The city has federal money, allocated for the proposed overpass project and will use that money next year if possible.  The county is planning on a project that would be ready to go in 2013.  City Administrator Luke Nelson is expected to update the Council next week.

Utility Committee Considers Phase 4

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Council's Utility Committee has voted to move ahead with planning for the fourth phase of the mandated sanitary sewer rehabilitation project.  The fourth phase affects the northeast part of the community and is projected to cost about $1.5 million.  Perry Gjersvik with Foth Engineering told the Committee that the Iowa DNR has signed off on the proposal and the next step will be to finalize plans, expected in January.  The Council recently endorsed an application for a Community Development Block Grant to defray some of the expense.

CIE Receives Cash Contribution

BOONE, Iowa---The effort to obtain pledges and donations for the Central Iowa Expo site in Boone County received a nice show of support Tuesday.  Monsanto donated $150,000 to help support the 2012 Farm Progress Show Hay Expo to be held next June.  Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Bill Northey says he was pleased to see Monsanto step up and help promote the show and he hopes other ag businesses in Iowa will follow suit.  Northey says having a site promoting agriculture is an investment for Iowans.  Monsanto Corporate Affairs representative Dave Tierney present the big check Tuesday.

Park Commission Preps for Skate Pond

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone Park Commission is determined to have a successful skate pond, if it ever gets cold enough for ice and skating.  Park Commission members this week learned that new skates have been delivered and also helmets for those just learning.  Older skates were being checked and cleaned up.  The warming house was being prepared and Park Commission members put out a call for volunteers to help run the warming house, when the skate pond opens.  Those interested in volunteering can get additional information by calling the Boone Parks Department at 432-4211 extension 142.  If there's no answer, leave a message.  Opening of the skate pond is weather dependent.

Conservation Board Rescinds Alcohol Policy

BOONE, Iowa---Last month, the Boone County Conservation Board took action to deal with alcohol related issues that either are or are expected to occur on the High Trestle Trail and Bridge in Boone County.  This month, the Commission rescinded their action after receive input from the Boone County Sheriff's Department. The trail is considered a public area and there are already state laws that regulate alcohol on those areas.  Commission members agreed to work with current state code.  Concerns had been raised about potential problems with alcohol on the High Trestle Bridge.

Festival of Hope Saturday

BOONE, Iowa---The 7th Annual Festival of Hope will be held Saturday at the Boone County Hospital Atrium.  The Festival is the brainchild of the Hope Foundation, established by Boone School District personnel to raise money and use it to help students and families of students in the Boone School District.  This year, for the first time ever, the Foundation has actually used up all the money they've raised last year.  Rhonda Getschman is a board member and says there's a waiting list of families that need additional assistance.  The Festival of Hope will run from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM.

Pufferbilly Logo and Theme Deadline Nears

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce has returned to having the annual Pufferbilly Days Logo and Theme contest.  Chamber Executive Director Kurt Phillips says local artists are encouraged to submit their ideas for the 2012 Pufferbilly Days festival.  The winning logo and theme will each receive $25 in Boone Bucks.  Phillips says the plan is to judge and announce the winners on December 19th.  More information on the contest is available here.

Paul Campaign Draws Crowd Thursday

BOONE, Iowa---Congressman Dr. Ron Paul brought his Presidential Campaign to Boone County Thursday and packed the Ericson Public Library meeting room.  Paul, currently running second in the polls among Republican candidates has consistently held a strong following in Boone County.  Paul spoke about his plans to cut a trillion dollars in federal spending in his first year as President.  With the caucuses in Iowa just over 3 weeks away, Paul Campaign members took time to organize.

Power Outage

BOONE, Iowa---More than 1,700 Alliant Utilities customers in Boone were without power for more than an hour Wednesday afternoon.  Scott Drzycimski, Communications Program Manager, says the problem was traced to a transmission issue, were an arrestor on a transmission line on the south side of Boone failed causing the outage.  In fact, the outage also affected some of the service for Midland Power customers.  Repairs were made and service was restored by 3:30 in the afternoon.

Employees Recognized

BOONE, Iowa---Each year, the Boone County Board of Supervisors takes time to recognize county employees that have served Boone County residents for 15, 20, 25, 30 or more years.  This week, the Board took time during their regular meeting to recognize 10 employees.  Pictured are Bill Mulder (15 years); Supervisor Bill Lusher; Tim Sheibley (30 years); John Grush (25 years); Dennis Consier (20 years); Veronica Rardin (15 years); Roger Koch (20 years); Sheryl Hurst (35 years); Supervisor Tom Foster; Lois Powers (15 years) and Supervisor Steve Duffy.  Not pictured is Tamara Reimers with 15 years of service.

Shop With A Cop

BOONE, Iowa---There are Shop With A Cop programs and then there's the Boone Police Associations Shop With A Cop program.  Thursday marks the annual Shop With A Cop program for more than 100-children.  The number is narrowed down from the more than 200-children that were nominated.  Members of the Boone Police Department host the event, but hundreds of volunteers will be helping.  Earlier this week, Boone Mayor John Slight, a long time supporter of the program, said monetary donations were still coming in with the most recent check, more than $1,900 from Pat Clemons, Inc.

Grant Received for Miles of Lights

BOONE, Iowa---The Miles of Lights campaign received a big boost with a grant from the Leonard Good Trust of Ogden.  Public Works and Parks Director John Rouse says the Boone Area Merchants Association and Holly Larson in particular worked to secure the grant that will be used to help purchase additional new lighting for the city.  Rouse says the $5,000 will be spent after the holidays in hopes of securing a better price.  Early, Rouse said city personnel were using multiple decorations for parts to make one working street decoration.  Most of the decorations had been in place for 20 years.  Rouse says the city maintains a separate Miles of Lights account and people can donate to the account year round.

Supervisors Amend Ordinance

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Supervisors quickly amended their recently adopted ordinance establishing voting precincts in Boone County, effective next month.  The recommended changes were made by state officials after a review of the previously adopted ordinance.  Part of the amendment included identifying city ordinance for Boone and Madrid which spell out voting precincts in those communities.  Auditor Phil Meier says if either city amends it's ordinance, it will be covered automatically by the county ordinance.  By the way, the Madrid City Council Tuesday amended their ordinance at the request of the state.

Hospital Selects HMS to be Project Manager

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Hospital has retained the services of HMS technology services to be the project manager for the new electronic health records system.  Joe Smith, Chief Executive Officer says HMS was selected because of their working knowledge of the Meditech software system.  Smith says virtually all the hardware has been installed and now the hard work of developing the program for local medical records gets underway.  Hospital staff have estimated the entire project will cost about $5-million, much of which will be reimbursed by the federal government. 

Supervisors To Amend Voting Precinct Ordinance

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone County Board of Supervisors will be considering an amendment to the recently adopted ordinance setting out voting precincts in Boone County.  Auditor and Commissioner of Elections Phil Meier says the amendment will focus on the precincts for Boone and Madrid.  Both cities establish voting precincts by ordinance and the amendment will identify the precincts by those ordinances.  Meier says that way if the cities make a change, it will automatically be included in the county's ordinance.

Traffic Signal Malfunction

BOONE, Iowa---Boone Public Works and Parks Director John Rouse told the Boone City Council this week that he will not recommend repairs on the traffic signal at South Story and Park Avenue.  Rouse says the signal has been a problem since a lightning storm last May.  He told the Council Monday that the company that built the system is now in the process of building a new controller box.  Rouse did not have an estimated time frame to get the traffic lights operational.

Council Goal Setting

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Council will hold another work session Tuesday to complete work on Council goals for the coming year.  Boone City Administrator, Luke Nelson has said he would bring out Council goals for the past several years so everyone gets a good feel for the progress that's been made.  Five years ago, the top goal dealt with annexation.  The Council last month accepted a phased in 37-year voluntary annexation of the industrial park.  However, an annexation study being conducted to consider other areas has yet to be submitted by Snyder and Associates.

Airport Development Request

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Council Economic Development Committee will continue discuss a request from the Airport Commission to participate with a development proposal to locate Half-Fast Flying Adventures at the Boone Municipal Airport.  Discussions have been going on for most the past year, but the Committee has been concerned about committing any funds to a project at the airport when few if any jobs are tied to the proposal.  Staff has been working possible tax rebates for a hangar project.

Ohlson Assumes Council Seat Tuesday

OGDEN, Iowa---David Ohlson will take the oath of office Tuesday, filling the unexpired term on the Ogden City Council.  Ohlson was elected in November to fill the position on the Council held by Lyle Conklin.  Former Mayor Mark Trueblood had filled in since Conklin passed away, but did not seek election to the seat.  Ohlson will be sworn in prior to the regular meeting Tuesday evening.  Other unexpired terms were filled on the Boxholm City Council and the Luther City Council.

LP Tanker Site Cleaned Up

BOONE, Iowa---Boone County Sheriff Ron Fehr says the clean up of an LP tanker that tipped into a ditch near Moingona was uneventful.  Fehr says as a precaution, residents within a quarter of a mile were evacuated. He says the driver, 31-year old Lee B. Butterfield made the turn a little short causing the trailer to roll into the ditch.  The trailer did have some 2,000 gallons of LP on board.  Damage was minimal and Fehr says the clean up occurred without incident.

Council Meets Monday

BOONE, Iowa---The Boone City Council will have a pretty light agenda for their Monday meeting.  Council members will be considering a couple of change orders for the Community Development Block Grant Housing Rehabilitation program.  The change orders were briefly discussed at a previous Council meeting.  The Council has historically been concerned about unexpected change orders on projects.  The change orders actually affect to housing rehab projects.

Chilly Night Greeted Parade Goers

BOONE, Iowa---Wind chill was very noticeable Thursday evening for the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Holiday Lighted Parade in Boone.  After a year off from the Boone Area Merchants Association hosted event, the Chamber picked up the opportunity.  Judging of the entries was held and the float entered by U.S. Bank took top honors.  Lora & Company was second and third went to the Boone National Guard.  The Community Tree was lite following the parade.  Organizers felt that gusty north winds did limit the crowd.

LP Truck Rolls In Boone County

BOONE, Iowa---Emergency responders were handling a single vehicle accident Thursday afternoon near Moingona in Boone County.  An LP tank truck rolled into the ditch.  Authorities are planning a controlled evacuation of the area while they deal with the situation.  The Boone County Sheriff's Department and Ogden Fire Department were handling the call initially.  There are no reports of any injuries.  Additional details are expected later.

Community Concert

BOONE, Iowa---The 11th Annual Community Concert celebrating the Christmas Story will be held at the Boone High School Auditorium Sunday evening.  The annual event features more than 60-volunteer members of a combined choir representing numerous congregations across Boone County.  Pam Grundstad of Boone directs the performance.  There is no admission charge, but a free will offering for Habitat for Humanity of Boone and Greene Counties will be accepted.  This is the largest annual fundraising event for Habitat for Humanity.

Potential Winter Storm

BOONE, Iowa---Thursday's passage of a week cool front caused a little flurry activity in the KWBG listening area, but there's a better chance of a more substantial winter storm headed into the weekend.  Boone County Emergency Management Coordinator Dave Morlan says the down side at this time is the uncertainty of the storms track.  Morlan says the certain part is that we will have some precipitation but exactly what and how much is still being studied.