Vermeer funeral is this morning
A funeral service is this morning for the founder of Vermeer Corporation. Gary Vermeer passed away Monday at the Hospice of Pella Comfort House at the age of 90. A company funeral service was held yesterday at the Vermeer Global Pavilion Arena. A family and community service is at 10:30 a.m. at Faith Christian Reformed Church in Pella.
Knoxville native was member of famous ISU team
A 74-year-old Knoxville native who was the All-American Captain of Iowa State’s Celebrated 1959 “Dirty Thirty” team passed away Monday in Dallas, Texas. Sources say that Dwight Nichols was also a Korean War Veteran before joining the celebrated football team.
Neighbor helps foil burglary
A neighbor’s watchfulness helped foil a crime in Knoxville Thursday. Knoxville Police Chief Dan Losada says a neighbor on the north side of town called police when they noticed suspicious activity to the house next door. Losada says because of the residents attentiveness, officers were able to arrive on scene and arrest two suspects on burglary charges.
Central discusses global climate change
Central College turned their attention to the issue of global climate change Thursday. For the second consecutive year, the college participated in a national teach-in on the subject. Professor of Biology Russ Benedict spoke about the already noticeable impact of climate change on plants and animals. He says current extinction rates are thought to be equal to those that claimed the dinosaurs.
Paperwork requirements increase for police departments
Although 2008 didnt see a significant rise in crime, there has been a rise in time officers spend doing paperwork. Police Chief Dan Losada says although last year’s statistics even show a decrease in some areas- such as in total accidents and total citations issued – new state requirements are making officers spend more time on paperwork.
Local hospitals say flu vaccine still available
Local hospitals haven’t yet seen a dramatic increase in the amount of influenza cases. That’s according to officials with both Pella Regional Health Center and Knoxville Hospital and Clinics. The last available report from the Iowa Influenza Surveillance Network described activity in the state as sporadic. Both hospitals say flu vaccinations are still available.
McKay-Ziller joins hospital board
Another community leader with years of experience has joined the Knoxville Hospital & Clinics board of trustees. Hospital spokeswoman Katrina Nelson says Megan McKay-Ziller will bring a vast amount of knowledge of the community and the understanding of the importance of having local health care available and accessible.
Pella Christian celebrates homecoming
Pella Christian High School gets a break from classes this afternoon as part of homecoming week. Guidance Counselor Dan Van Kooten says students have the opportunity to participate in class competitions, which are organized by the student council. Activities include tug of war, half-court shot and a lip-synching contest, among others. The homecoming king and queen will also be announced.
Chamber hosts legislative forum
State Senator Paul McKinley and State Representative Jim Van Engelenhoven will be at the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce Friday at 4 p.m. for the 2009 Legislative Forum. All residents are welcome to get an update on recent legislative issues and ask questions. The forums are held the first Friday of each month.
Missoula Children’s Theatre returns to Pella Opera House
Aspiring child actors take note: The Missoula Childrens Theatre is returning to Pella. According to the Pella Opera House, the audition for a production of “The Little Mermaid” will be held Monday starting at 3:45 p.m. at the Opera House. Roles are available for students in all grades and about 50 students will be cast in the show. Performances are February 14 at the Opera House.