OSKALOOSA — High school seniors living in Mahaska County and attending any high school are eligible to apply now for a Chamber Scholarship sponsored by the Mahaska Chamber & Development Group. Information is available from one’s school counselor or the web at https://www.mahaskachamber.org/resources/scholarships/ where you will find a link to the fillable form. Scholarships are sponsored by area businesses and industries. Last year $25,000 was distributed to 23 students.

The application requests information such as participation in school and community activities, as well as a short essay. Be prepared with a pdf of your transcript. On-line applications and school transcripts are due no later than Saturday, April 1, 2024.

“Businesses and individuals are encouraged to contribute to the scholarship fund as well.  Our giving remains constant, but we would encourage more. Students are already asking for the application. It’s important to support our youth and make it easier for them to attend college,” Deb Bruxvoort stated.  “Perhaps you can contribute financially to the fund, or perhaps participate in the annual Chamber Golf outing set for Friday, May 10. The golf outing raises additional funds for scholarships.”

The Chamber Scholars program, now in its 28th year, continues to partner with “52577 Scholarship”. Contributions to the program are tax deductible and can be made in any amount. If one chooses to donate $1,000 it will be awarded this year. If one wants to contribute to the perpetual scholarship fund through “52577”, any amount may be donated to be used in future years.

For further information to apply or to contribute to the fund contact the Mahaska Chamber at 641.672.2591 or email dbruxvoort@mahaskachamber.org.

OSKALOOSA, IOWA — Oskaloosa High School Senior Chasity Richardson will be contributing her artistic talent to Think Iowa City’s (Iowa City/Coralville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau) Herky on Parade 2024.

Herky on Parade is a public art project in the Iowa City/Coralville area where designers take 75, blank, 6’1″ Herky sculptures and adorn the Hawkeye mascot with unique designs created by artists from the region. Each Herky features the same pose, with a distinctly different look given to the statuette by different regional artists.

Richardson’s submission stood out among a pool of talented artists, earning her a spot in this prestigious community art event. The blank Herky sculptures are giant canvases she will customize with her theme. All 75 Herkys will be displayed throughout Johnson County from May to September 2024, drawing people to the area.

Richardson’s journey with Herky on Parade began with a straightforward application process where she drew her proposed design.

“I’m envisioning Herky as a passionate fan, donning Hawkeye overalls and paint on his face—capturing the essence of a gameday enthusiast,” she says. “The idea came to me after thorough research to ensure originality. Watching games helped the concept dawn on me as an obvious choice, simplicity is key” she says.

Richardson will be working on her Herky masterpiece in the high school art classroom as part of the OHS Entrepreneurship in the Arts class. Although the exact timeline for receiving her Herky back to Oskaloosa is pending, she aims to complete the project in approximately a month.

“I don’t think it should take any longer than that—I just need to get the materials,” she said. “I feel very honored to do this. I’m excited to get started and proud to contribute to this unique project.”

Richardson is undecided about her post-high school plans, but is focused on securing a job after she graduates in February.

“Because Herky is fiberglass, I’ll be using enamel paint that I’ve never used before,” Richardson says. “It’s a new experience for me, and I’m grateful to have [Art Teacher] Mr. Kargol there to teach me.”

The Herky on Parade consortium is responsible for organizing this event. The Herkys are fiberglass sculptures that weigh approximately 50 pounds each and will be permanently affixed to a 3′ x 5′ concrete slab. All proceeds from the Herky on Parade auction, which takes place after the display period, are directed to a local charitable organization.

By Sam Parsons

Another winter weather advisory is set to take effect for our area tonight.

The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a winter weather advisory for portions of southern Iowa beginning at 8pm tonight and running through noon tomorrow. During this time, mixed precipitation is expected, with snow accumulations amounting to less than 1 inch, and ice accumulations up to 1/10 of an inch.

The NWS says that slippery road conditions are likely in some areas, and that all travelers should slow down and use caution while driving.

For the latest travel conditions, visit 511ia.org.