TAG SEARCH RESULTS FOR: ""

Musco Lighting Partner with U.S. SOCCER Foundation, Launches ‘IT’S EVERYONE’S GAME’

Posted on by KBOE Administrator
CHICAGO, IL (Dec. 5, 2017) – The U.S. Soccer Foundation is launching a national campaign, It’s Everyone’s Game, aimed at dramatically expanding its impact on children across the country through soccer-based programs. To kick off the campaign, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, the Chicago Park District and the Chicago Fire Soccer Club will announce their support for the initiative by committing to build 50 soccer play spaces in under-served neighborhoods in the next five years. The project is made possible by a $3 million gift from the Kenneth C. Griffin Charitable Fund and a substantial contribution from the Hauptman family and Chicago Fire Soccer Club. In partnership with communities, municipalities and corporate partners across the country, the Foundation is pledging to reach one million children annually and build 1,000 soccer courts, called mini-pitches, by 2026.
Former U.S. National Team stars Kristine Lilly, Staci Wilson, Cobi Jones and Brian McBride will also be on hand at the event to commit their support to the It’s Everyone’s Game campaign. McBride is also a former Chicago Fire player.
“Our Soccer for Success program shows that soccer can be the difference between a child who thrives and a child who falls through the cracks,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, President & CEO, U.S. Soccer Foundation. “Yet far too many children across the country do not have access to soccer programming or the opportunity to engage with a coach who can help them develop critical life skills that support their development on and off the playing field. The premise of our work is simple: We train coach-mentors.  We make sure there are fields to play on.  And we support after-school soccer programs in underserved communities that are offered free to participants. By eliminating barriers and creating opportunities, we help the kids who need us most to not only play soccer, but also to be healthier, more active, and more confident.”
It’s Everyone’s Game will result in a dramatic expansion of the Foundation’s proven work in improving physical and social youth development through soccer. Since after-school programming around Soccer for Success started in 2009, the Foundation and its partners have positively impacted over 100,000 children in more than 180 underserved communities around the country, helping them embrace an active, healthy lifestyle while nurturing their personal growth through team-building and mentorship.
According to a recent evaluation of Soccer for Success by American Institutes for Research (AIR), 88 percent of participants work better on a team, 86 percent stay away from anti-social behaviors and 72 percent try harder in school. Internal research validates these findings. Eighty-three percent of children at greater risk for health issues improved or maintained their health. The Department of Justice also cited the program’s unique ability to engage and retain youth who may not enter or stay in a traditional mentoring relationship.
Mayor Emanuel and the Chicago Park District, in partnership with Chicago Fire Soccer Club, are making a major commitment to expand access to soccer play spaces in underserved neighborhoods across the city. In addition, the Mayor’s Office and Chicago Park District will work with the Foundation, schools and other community-based organizations to expand Soccer for Success.
“These new soccer pitches will give young people across Chicago state-of-the-art places to play and learn one of the world’s most exciting and popular games,” said Mayor Emanuel. “This partnership provides a great opportunity for our youth to stay active, and gain teamwork and leadership skills that will serve them on and off the field throughout their lives.”
“I am thrilled to support the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s efforts to provide children across Chicago greater opportunities to play soccer,” said Ken Griffin, Founder and CEO, Citadel. “I’ve enjoyed soccer for over 30 years, first as a player and more recently as a coach, where I’ve seen the game teach children the importance of teamwork, the benefits of practice and the joy of competition.”
“These mini-pitches will transform the everyday lives of Chicagoland children, and further grow the passion for soccer across our city,” said Andrew Hauptman, Owner and Chairman, Chicago Fire Soccer Club. “I’m very proud that the Chicago Fire Soccer Club is partnering with the U.S. Soccer Foundation, Mayor~Emanuel, Ken Griffin, and the Chicago Park District in order to make such an important and positive impact throughout our community. This initiative perfectly complements the extensive community programming that the Fire has developed and runs throughout Chicago.”
Major industry and corporate partners will help bring It’s Everyone’s Game to communities across the country. National partners who are partnering with the Foundation include adidas, Major League Soccer, Musco Lighting and Target.
“Major League Soccer is committed to improving the communities where we live and play our games by supporting initiatives that enrich and educate youth and promote inclusion at all levels of the sport,” said JoAnn Neale, Chief Administrative & Social Responsibility Officer, Major League Soccer.  “We’re proud to partner with the U.S. Soccer Foundation to provide access to soccer and grow the game through Soccer for Success programming.”
“Musco has been a longtime partner of the U.S. Soccer Foundation and has lent support to its mission for nearly two decades,” said Jeff Rogers, Vice President of Sales, Musco Lighting. “Soccer for Success is a great program to benefit thousands of young people across the country who need and deserve an opportunity to have access to coach mentors and safe places to play in their communities, and we are proud to support the Foundation’s It’s Everyone’s Game campaign in making this happen.”
Through its partnership with adidas, the U.S. Soccer Foundation will be able to provide participants with the equipment and materials necessary to succeed on and off the field. In addition, adidas will support the campaign by participating in the launch event and providing access to pro-athletes and a dedicated coaching staff who will use the sport of soccer to positively impact these players’ lives.
Target Corp. (NYSE: TGT) recently pledged $6 million to support the Foundation’s mission to improve lives and communities through soccer by building 100 mini-pitches in communities across the country.
Other metropolitan areas that have taken steps to joining in It’s Everyone’s Game include: Baltimore, MD; Columbus, OH; Hendersonville, TN; Houston, TX; Kansas City, MO; Louisville, KY; Miami, FL; Nashville, TN; Newark, NJ; North Miami, FL; Oklahoma City, OK; Orlando, FL; Philadelphia, PA; Reno, NV; Rochester, NY; San Bernardino, CA; Tucson, AZ; and Washington, DC.
Additionally, the City of New York recently opened the first 10 of 50 mini-pitches as part of a public-private partnership to build and maintain fields in under-served areas.
In early 2017, Mayor Emanuel joined the U.S. Soccer Foundation, Major League Soccer and the Chicago Fire Soccer Club officials to open the two mini-pitches in Chicago’s Gage Park neighborhood, where today’s event will be held. The pitches were also supported by MLS WORKS (MLS’ community outreach initiative), Southern New Hampshire University and the Chicago Park District. The pitches support local youth programming, including the Chicago Fire Soccer Club’s P.L.A.Y.S Program and the Chicago Police Department’s new Community Engagement through Sports initiative.   
It’s Everyone’s Game at its core represents access and inclusion. As an extension of this ethos, the Foundation will be unveiling customized pitch crests for each partner city as symbols of local engagement between the broader soccer community and It’s Everyone’s Game. The uniquely-designed campaign pitch crests will be available on the campaign website for participants to share on social media channels using #EveryonesGame.
For more information about It’s Everyone’s Game, how to stay updated on the campaign, and ways to get involved, visit itseveryonesgame.org.

 

About Musco Lighting
Since 1976, Musco Lighting has specialized in the design and manufacture of sports and large area lighting solutions around the world. Musco’s industry-leading LED system technology features unmatched light control, uniformity, and reliability, and has transformed the player and fan experience at everything from neighborhood fields, to major college and professional venues, to the Olympic Games. As the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s longest-tenured partner, Musco has worked with the organization for more than 20 years to help communities provide more opportunities for youth participation, as well as personal growth beyond the sport.

 

About the U.S. Soccer Foundation
The U.S. Soccer Foundation’s programs are the national model for sports-based youth development in underserved communities. Since its founding in 1994, the Foundation has established programs proven to help children embrace an active and healthy lifestyle while nurturing their personal growth beyond sports. Its cost-effective, high-impact initiatives offer safe environments where kids and communities thrive. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the U.S. Soccer Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) organization. Follow us on Twitter at @ussoccerfndn and Facebook at facebook.com/ussoccerfoundation.

Four Oskaloosa Employees Recognized At City Council

Posted on by KBOE Administrator

A special acknowledgement presentation occurred during the Monday, December 4th, City Council meeting. Spearheaded by Mayor David Krutzfeldt, four Oskaloosa employees were recognized for their dedication to the city and community.

“We talk about longevity and the importance of it,” said Mayor Krutzfeldt.  “The institutional memory of the people that have been our employees for five years 10, 15, 20 plus years, how that affects the culture and how the city works.” Krutzfeldt continued to say that it goes just beyond the years, it also deals with the way to train younger employees and changing with technology. Stating that there are continuous changes and thus continuous improvements.

First to be recognized was Susan Hasso, the Administrative Assistant of the Oskaloosa Public Library for 20 years.

Amy Miller, the City Clerk and part of the Finance Department, was awarded for 25 years of service.

Police Chief John ‘Jake’ McGee was recognized for 30 years of service to the city of Oskaloosa and the Oskaloosa Police Department.

Finally, David Christensen Fire Captain with the Oskaloosa Fire Department, was recognized for 35 years of service.

Mayor Krutzfeldt continued to make comments regarding the instrumental individuals in this community. “These are the people that become the backbone of the culture of Oskaloosa.” Krutzfeldt continued, “So, over the years, they’ve had to take the values, what we are trying to do as a city – especially in administration – but also in the services that people see. ‘This is what we want to do, we want to give the very best service we can.’ So the people of Oskaloosa can be proud and appreciative of the efforts thats coming from the city.”

Oskaloosa Boys Sharp Offensively in Rout of Centerville

Posted on by KBOE Administrator

The Oskaloosa Indians Boys Basketball team was back at it on Tuesday night against Centerville in a non-conference matchup. The offensive output stole the show, as the Indians scored a season-high in their 92-65 victory.

The first quarter started with both teams hitting some early shots in a fast-paced affair. By the end of the quarter, Osky had put together enough to take a 19-14 lead into the second.

The Indian defense would slow the Big Red offense significantly in the second quarter as Centerville only mustered nine points in the period. Oskaloosa, on the other hand, continued to stay hot as several players got into the act offensively. After a 25 point quarter, Osky had a 44-23 halftime lead.

The third quarter was something special to watch, as both teams put on one of the best collective offensive displays one would ever see at a high school game. The teams traded baskets for most of the third quarter en route to scoring a ridiculous 62 combined points. Oskaloosa would get the better end after becoming unconscious from three-point land with Spencer Tucker leading the way. The Indians outscored the Big Reds 39-23 in the offensive showcase in just eight minutes of basketball.

The fourth quarter saw the running clock and some strong work from the second unit of Centerville to cut the lead down by the end of the game, but it was all Osky with the 92-65 final.

The Indians were led by Spencer Tucker, who exploded from downtown in the second half and cruised to a 22-point night. Xavier Foster had a big game all around with 19 points, 6 rebounds, 4 steals, and 2 blocks. Jarad Kruse and Cole Henry also chipped in plenty of offense, as Kruse had 16 and Henry had 14.

Centerville was led by Dan Hargrave, who finished with 15 points.

Oskaloosa is back in action on Friday as they will play Grinnell in Little Hawkeye Conference play. That will be a part of a doubleheader starting with the girls’ game at 6:15 PM. You can hear the broadcast on 99.5 FM/740 AM KMZN and watch a live video stream on radiokmzn.com and MCG Channel 7. The pregame show will begin at 6 PM.

City Preparations for Winter Weather

Posted on by KBOE Administrator

Winter weather will happen – ready or not – and it’s never too early to remind everyone “Ice and Snow…..Take it Slow.”

The Oskaloosa Police Department reminds citizens when winter weather conditions become severe with freezing rain, sleet, ice or snow fall which cause difficult travel conditions, the City Manager has the authority to declare a snow emergency within the city. The announcement will be made through the City’s website at www.oskaloosaiowa.org and local media outlets, such as KBOE/KMZN, and will give the date and time the snow emergency begins. Citizens can also sign up to receive e-mail or text alerts when a snow emergency has been declared. Go to the city’s web page and located on the lower left-hand side of the front page is a “Notify Me” button. Fill out the necessary information and an e-mail/text alert will be sent when a snow emergency has been declared. One can also log onto www.kboeradio.com and click on the “Closings” button on the top for all the latest weather delays, closures and emergencies.

When a snow emergency is declared, no on-street parking is allowed. If you leave your vehicle parked on city streets during a snow emergency, you may receive a $25 parking ticket and/or your vehicle could be towed at your expense. Citizens who do not have off-street parking available to them may park their vehicle(s) in the city parking lots within the central business district. Once the street is plowed you should remove your vehicle from the city parking lot so the street department can plow the lots. On-street parking is allowed again
only after the full width of the street has been plowed, or the snow emergency has been cancelled.

The City of Oskaloosa has prepared a brochure for residents which is available on the city website and through City Hall – 220 South Market Street, Public Works – 804 South D Street, or at the Mahaska County Law Center – 214 High Avenue East. The brochure contains frequently asked questions along with important information for citizens. Remember when a snow emergency is declared, no on-street parking is allowed until the full width of the street has been plowed or the snow emergency is cancelled.

Eventually, winter weather will arrive, prepare now and remember “Ice and Snow….Take it Slow”.

North Mahaska Leads the Way As Six Area Girls Teams Ranked

Posted on by KBOE Administrator

The latest poll from the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union came out late last week and a half-dozen schools in the area are ranked in girls basketball.

In Class 1A, North Mahaska continues to lead the charge at #4 after a strong start. Their biggest test of the early portion of the season will be this Friday on the Game of the Week on 104.9 FM KBOE. The Warhawks will be hosting the Bravettes of Montezuma, who are ranked #9 for the second straight week. Both teams already boast early season wins over Lynnville-Sully, who is still in the rankings at #13.

Pekin joins the fray in Class 2A as the Panthers are #14 in the latest poll. Pekin has won three of their first four games, all of which came on the road. Their lone loss was at #13 Mediapolis.

In Class 4A, Grinnell and Pella are still representing the tough Little Hawkeye Conference. Grinnell is still in the #4 slot while Pella dropped three spots down to #13. Both teams are starting to get into the thick Little Hawkeye Conference.

The next rankings from the IGHSAU will come out later this week.

Central-Decatur Teacher Chosen As One Of 44 Milken Award Honorees

Posted on by KBOE Administrator

Joni Readout, a master teacher and planner at Central Decatur Junior-Senior High School, was selected as one of 44 Milken honorees for 2017-18. Readout is the first in the district to receive the prestigious honor and comes with a $25,000 cash prize.

Iowa Department of Education Director Dr. Ryan Wise and Central Decatur Community School District Superintendent Chris Coffelt joined the Milken Family Foundation in presenting the Award to Readout in a gymnasium packed with her peers, students, dignitaries and media.

“Teacher leaders play a crucial role in K-12 education today,” said Lowell Milken, chairman and co-founder of the Milken Family Foundation. “As a master teacher, Joni Readout helps drive instruction in the school, working hand-in-hand with Secondary Principal Rudy Evertsen and the leadership team. Through intense planning, daily professional learning and a laser-focus on school goals, Joni works tirelessly with fellow faculty to refine classroom practices and raise student achievement growth. These skills, enhanced by her professionalism, care and compassion, make her worthy of the Milken Educator Award. I look forward to the knowledge and experiences she will bring to our national network of educators.”

As Readout received the honor, emotions overwhelmed the educator and leader.

“I think I was just so shocked and humbled by the idea that someone was paying attention to the work that I was doing and especially it being an award that you are not nominated for, they seek you out,” Readout said. “I was just completely overwhelmed with emotions when someone had recognized me for my work.”

Readout is a graduate of Iowa State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 2009 and a master’s in curriculum and instructional technology in 2015. She has been teaching at Central-Decatur for nine years now. Teaching 7th and 8th grade reading, 6th grade math and then all subjects in 6th grade at the elementary. “Our school [Central-Decatur] was fortunate enough to be contacted for a federal grant through NIET and TAP System, [they] came to our school and we began using the TAP system in our teacher leadership program.”

The school began using the TAP System for their teacher leadership and Readout got involved by applying for the mentor teacher position, then working up to a master teacher. She has held the master teacher position for four years, though she prefers the title instructional coach.

Central-Decatur Community School District soon became an example for the other 333 school districts in Iowa. Being a member of the TAP Advisory Board, Readout had the opportunity to lead Central-Decatur CSD to be a Teacher Leadership and Compensation System (TLC) model for other Junior-Senior High Schools.

“Iowa has made a significant investment in teachers through the state’s teacher leadership system, which is about strengthening instruction and offering new career pathways,” said Wise. “It’s exciting to see a master teacher receive national recognition in one of the first school districts to implement a plan through Iowa’s teacher leadership system. Joni Readout and the Central Decatur Community School District are making a difference for the community and for Iowa.”

At Central-Decatur they have instilled a development for teachers called “ clusters” meetings that she has utilized to strengthen teachers effectiveness and the success of students. 

“A lot of schools call them PLC meetings, but we call them clusters meetings. They are weekly professional development meetings that are job embedded, so our teachers come during their lunch hour,” Readout said. “So I teach professional development for an hour, two days a week.” Readout works with the grade 5-12 math teachers, along with the CTE and art teachers during her “clusters” meeting. “Its all about increasing teacher effectiveness and therefore increasing our students abilities and achievements,” Readout said.

Readout also teaches an Intro to Education course to juniors and seniors at high school. “Part of that was my want to influence students that are thinking about becoming a teacher. And so, I definitely incorporate a lot of the same learning that I provide for teachers during our cluster meetings in that,” said Readout. Beyond that, she has taken her experiences, teaching and knowledge to Graceland University student to share with them and help to see if education is a career that they want to delve into. 

As for the $25,000 cash prize, Readout isn’t quite sure what she will spend it on.

“I haven’t thought about much yet. I have to give credit to the students and staff I work with and the administration team that I work with for challenging me and pushing me. I want to have some sort of celebration, some of the kids joke about a pizza party,” said Readout. “But for the rest of it, I haven’t thought too much about where that money would go.”

Past recipients have used their Awards to fund their children’s education or their own continuing education. Others have financed dream field trips, established scholarships and even funded the adoption of children.

In the end, Readout extends thanks to numerous people who had a hand in her success. “I appreciate so much being recognized for the work that we do here at CD [Central-Decatur] and I appreciate it so very much. [I] thank all the people that have had an influence on me, from my professors at Iowa state to the people I work with here,” Readout said. “So I just want to give credit to all the other educators and hard working teachers that put in lots and lots of time so that our students can be successful.”

You can learn more about Joni Readout, Milken Educator awards, and the TAP System at: www.milkeneducatorawards.org

About the Milken Educator Awards

The first Milken Educator Awards were presented by the Milken Family Foundation 30 years ago in 1987. The Awards provide public recognition and individual financial rewards of $25,000 to elementary and secondary school teachers, principals and specialists from around the country who are furthering excellence in education. Recipients are heralded in early to mid-career for what they have achieved and for the promise of what they will accomplish.

Milken Educators are selected in early to mid-career for what they have achieved and for the promise of what they will accomplish. In addition to the $25,000 prize and public recognition, Readout’s honor includes membership in the National Milken Educator Network, a group of more than 2,700 top teachers, principals and specialists dedicated to strengthening education.

In addition to participation in the Milken Educator Network, 2017-18 recipients will attend a Milken Educator Forum in Washington, D.C., March 20-23, 2018. Educators will have the opportunity to network with their new colleagues and hear from state and federal officials about the importance of maximizing their leadership roles to advance educator effectiveness.

 

 

Officer Killed Four Decades Ago Honored Near Prairie City

Posted on by KBOE Administrator

An Iowa police officer killed in the line of duty 40 years ago was honored Sunday. Family, friends and fellow officers gathered near Prairie City at a Highway 163 bridge which is now named for Donald “Rusty” Hewitt. The part-time Prairie City cop was killed on December 3, 1977 while assisting Iowa State Patrol Officers during a high-speed pursuit. Hewitt was 24-years-old. Current Prairie City Police Chief Joe Bartello says a friend of the Hewitt family came up with the idea of naming the bridge in honor of Hewitt.

“I started looking in to it and working with the DOT. I found out the process was not as complicated as you might think it is for something through the DOT,” Bartello said.

The process basically involved showing the project had the support of both the local city council and the Jasper County Board of Supervisors.

“I presented to both and both approved it,” Bartello said. “We passed that approval off to the DOT, we were able to get a sign designed and placed here.”

The bridge at mile marker 18 on Highway 163 is now identified as the Donald Rusty Hewitt Bridge. The crash that killed Hewitt also killed a passenger in his vehicle, 20-year-old Kenneth McCuen Jr. of Prairie City.

Navy Posthumously Awards Iowan Silver Star Medal for Valor at Pearl Harbor

Posted on by KBOE Administrator

The Navy recently authorized the posthumous award of a combat medal to a Sailor who was present at Pearl Harbor during the Japanese attack of Dec. 7, 1941, officials announced Monday, December 4th.

Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer awarded the Silver Star Medal to Chaplain Lt. j.g. Aloysious H. Schmitt for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving on the battleship USS Oklahoma (BB 37). As Oklahoma was capsizing, Schmitt sacrificed his own life to assist many of his shipmates in escaping to safety.

Navy Chief of Chaplains Rear Adm. Margaret Kibben will present the Silver Star Medal to a member of Schmitt’s family during a ceremony on the campus of Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa on Dec. 7.  The 8:45 a.m.(Central time) presentation ceremony will be preceded by a special Catholic mass  in a campus chapel previously dedicated to Schmitt, and in which his remains are interred.

“The presentation of the medals is not only appropriate but simply the right thing to do,” said Spencer. “One of my highest priorities is to honor the service and sacrifice of our Sailors, Marines, Civilians, and family members and it is clear that Lt. Schmitt and Petty Officer George are heroes whose service and sacrifice will stand as an example for current and future service members.”

In addition to Schmitt’s Silver Star, the Secretary also awarded the Bronze Star Medal to Chief Boatswain’s Mate Joseph L. George for action at while serving aboard the repair ship USS Vestal (AR 4).

In October 1942 Schmitt was posthumously awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, the Navy’s award for non-combat heroism.  The Navy later published a clearer definition of combat for award purposes, making.   Schmitt was retroactively eligible for the Silver Star Medal, the military’s third-highest personal decoration for valor in combat. Schmitt’s family petitioned the Navy to upgrade his recognition to a combat valor award.

Schmitt’s family is happy to celebrate the heroism of their loved one.

Dr. Steve Sloan is the great-nephew of Chaplain Schmitt. Although he never met Schmitt – who was known in the family as “Father Al” – Sloan says the story was a topic of discussion at every family holiday gathering when he was growing up.

“We would talk about what happened, how many Sailors he helped escape, and what went on – we would kind of relive it every holiday and it became a bit of a tradition.  So we’re very excited about the medal.  I think for the older people in the family it’s a form of closure, but for the rest of us, our hope is that this is just the beginning of the story; that with the return of his remains and the presentation of the medal, his story will become known to a whole new generation.”

According to the Navy’s Nonresident Training Course History of the Chaplain Corps, Part 2, Schmitt was hearing confessions aboard Oklahoma when four torpedoes hit the port side of the ship.  As the vessel began to list to port, the crew tried to escape. Schmitt made his way with several others to a compartment in which an open porthole – a small, circular window in the outer hull of the ship – afforded a means of escape. One by one, the Sailors in the space, with Schmitt’s help, crawled through the porthole to safety.

When they were all out, Schmitt attempted to get through the small opening. Even with the frantic assistance offered by the men who were already out, Schmitt struggled to get through the porthole.  During the attempt to escape, the chaplain became aware that others had come into the compartment from which he was trying to escape. Realizing that the water was rising rapidly and that even this one exit would soon be closed, Schmitt insisted on being pushed back to help others who could get through more easily, urging them on with a blessing.

As water poured into the ship, she gradually rolled over, and settled on the bottom of the harbor.  More than 400 Oklahoma Sailors, including Schmitt, lost their lives.

Named after the chaplain, USS Schmitt (DE 676) was commissioned July 24, 1943. The ship performed convoy escort missions in the Atlantic Ocean before being transferred to the Pacific. The ship also participated in combat operations off Balikpapan, Borneo in the summer of 1945. After conducting peacetime training and upkeep following the end of World War II, the ship was decommissioned on June 28, 1949.

The Naval History and Heritage Command, located at the Washington Navy Yard, is responsible for the preservation, analysis, and dissemination of U.S. naval history and heritage. It provides the knowledge foundation for the Navy by maintaining historically relevant resources and products that reflect the Navy’s unique and enduring contributions through our nation’s history, and supports the fleet by assisting with and delivering professional research, analysis, and interpretive services. NHHC is composed of many activities including the Navy Department Library, the Navy Operational Archives, the Navy art and artifact collections, underwater archeology, Navy histories, ten museums, USS Constitution repair facility and the historic ship Nautilus.

For more news from Naval History and Heritage Command, visit www.history.navy.mil.

Oskaloosa MidAmerican Location Closing

Posted on by KBOE Administrator

 To introduce its new customer service kiosk, MidAmerican Energy Company is hosting a meet and greet in Penn Central Mall on Friday, December 8, from 10 AM. to 12 PM Smokey Row coffee will be served to the attendees.

Individuals interested in attending the event can stop by and grab a free cup of coffee, take a picture with Louie the Lightning Bug and speak with one of MidAmerican Energy’s customer service representatives to learn about the new, easy-to-use payment kiosk.

“Our Oskaloosa customers can expect the same great service that we have provided and now our new kiosk is another way to support our customers,” said Kathi Allison, director, customer contact operations for MidAmerican Energy. “We are excited to offer a more convenient location, extended hours and even more payment options including debit and credit cards.”

As MidAmerican Energy transfers its Oskaloosa-area customers over to using the new kiosk, its Oskaloosa office at 2411 N. Market St., will close in January. Customers with further questions are encouraged to visit www.midamericanenergy.com or call 888-427-5632.

The Oskaloosa locations will observe no net job loss, according to Adam Jacobi, Public Relations Representative for the Corporate Communications at MidAmerican Energy. The new kiosk will simply provide enhanced hours and services for walk-up payment and billing inquiries, with extended hours and features to better serve Oskaloosa customers.

Of the three positions at the customer office in Oskaloosa, two positions were vacated earlier this year, and their positions were transferred elsewhere within the company. The remaining position will be reassigned and remain at the service center.

“The Oskaloosa service center will remain open and staffed with service and support personnel to ensure our Oskaloosa-area customers continue to receive prompt, reliable service,” Jacobi said. This location will continue to handle local service calls as usual.

Bills and payments can still be made through the mail or online through your MidAmerican Energy account, in addition to the kiosk.

About MidAmerican Energy Company
MidAmerican Energy Company is an energy provider serving 760,000 electric customers and 742,000 natural gas customers in Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and South Dakota. It is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa. Information about MidAmerican Energy is available on the company’s website, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube pages, which can be accessed viawww.midamericanenergy.com.

Sigourney and EV Face Off in Double Header

Posted on by KBOE Administrator

Friday night saw a conference double header between Sigourney and English Valleys. The girls game featured a battle of the unbeatens as the Savages rolled into North English with a 1-0 record to face the 2-0 Bears. The opposite was true in the boys game as the 0-1 Savages faced the 0-2 Bears, both teams looking to pick up their first win.

In the girls game, English Valleys started off hot. Madison Trimpe was the go-to girl as she scored the team’s first 8 points. She would finish with 11. The score was tied after the first quarter. The beginning of the 2nd quarter saw the Savages start to pull away. Sigourney used speed, defense, and a couple Brooke Waechter buckets to outscore the Bears 18-7 in the second quarter, making the halftime score 28-17. The second half featured more of the same as Sigourney continued to press English Valleys, eventually winning the game 56-31. The offensive leaders for Sigourney were Brooke Waechter with 18 points, and Autumn Barthelman with 15 points.

As mentioned previously, the second game pitted two teams without a win against each other. It was obvious early on that the Sigourney Savage boys were hungry to put one in the “W” column, as they came out on fire. They outscored English Valleys 17-4 in the 1st quarter, and that is how the rest of the night would go as well. Sigourney saw a majority of its points coming from the trio of Spencer Magill (16), Brady Powers (17), and Dustin Haines (14). The Savages would end up rolling the Bears, 66-17.

Next up for the English Valleys, they travel to Keota for another conference double header on Tuesday, December 5th. Sigourney returns home for their next conference double header against Belle Plaine, also on Tuesday, December 5th.

NEWSLETTER

Stay updated, sign up for our newsletter.