The Oskaloosa Area Chamber & Development Group is happy to announce that scholarships will again be available through its Chamber Scholars program, now in its 21st year.

High school seniors living in Mahaska County and attending any high school are eligible to apply. Pick up an application from your school counselor, from the Oskaloosa Area Chamber office or at www.oacdg.org. Scholarships will be offered in the amounts of $500 and up, and are sponsored by area businesses and industries. Last year $9,000 was distributed to 18 students. There were 29 applications from Mahaska County students from several different schools.

The application requests such information as participation in school and community activities, as well as a short essay. Typed Chamber Scholars applications and school transcripts are due at the Chamber no later than Tuesday, April 11, 2017.

“Businesses and individuals are encouraged to contribute to the scholarship fund as well.  Each year we’ve maintained our level of giving. This year we would like to increase this level. It’s important to support our youth and make it easier for them to attend college,” stated Deb Bruxvoort of the OACDG.  “Perhaps you can contribute financially to the fund, or perhaps participate in the annual OACDG Golf outing set for Friday, May 12. The golf outing raises additional funds for scholarships.”

For further information, to request an application form, or to contribute to the fund contact the Oskaloosa Chamber at 641.672.2591 or email dbruxvoort@oacdg.org.

On Tuesday, January 24^th, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office received multiple reports of a fire at Lambirth Enterprises located at 1764 Highway G-76 in rural Marion County. Witnesses reported hearing an explosion and then saw flames coming from the building. Reports indicated a person was trapped inside the building, but the person was able to make it out of the building just before deputies arrived on scene. Two people were injured and transported by ambulance. One person was transported to Knoxville Hospital and later transported to the University of Iowa Hospital burn unit where they are listed in stable condition. Another person was transported to Pella Hospital and later released.

Indiana Township Fire Department, Knoxville Township Fire Department, Columbia Fire Department, Bussey Fire and Rescue, Melcher Fire Department, Pella Fire Department, Knoxville Rescue and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office all responded to the scene of the fire. This fire is currently under investigation by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa State Fire Marshall’s Office.