The Iowa Department of Education is going through an unexpected change in leadership.
Director Chad Aldis was appointed in March. Now he is resigning for family reasons, according to the governor’s office.
Gov. Kim Reynolds has chosen Virginia deputy education secretary McKenzie Snow to take his place.
Snow was previously a division director at the New Hampshire Department of Education.
She also has experience working on education policy at the federal level. That includes time in the Trump White House as a special assistant to the president on the Domestic Policy Council.
The transition is happening quickly. Snow’s appointment as Education Director starts Monday.
National anti-abortion leaders were in Des Moines last night to call on Republican presidential candidates to vocally support nationwide limits on abortion.
Top officials with Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America and The Family Leader say Republicans running in the Iowa caucuses should say what they’d do to restrict abortion. They rejected the idea that supporting a nationwide abortion ban would hurt a candidate’s chances of winning an election.
Leaders at the event say GOP presidential candidates should at least support a national ban on abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy.
The state of Iowa has settled three lawsuits against Governor Kim Reynolds that accused her of failing to follow the state’s public records law.
The settlements approved Wednesday by the state appeal board follow an Iowa Supreme Court decision from April. The justices unanimously ruled the governor’s office can be sued for not providing public documents in a timely manner.
Reynolds’ office didn’t respond to certain public records requests for more than a year, and only provided the documents after lawsuits were filed. The settlement agreements say the governor and her staff are NOT admitting to violating the law. The state will pay more than 174-thousand dollars in attorney fees.
State Auditor Rob Sand voted against the settlements, saying they put taxpayers on the hook for the governor hiding public records. Reynolds’ office says responses to records requests were “unintentionally delayed” because of the work they were doing to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The estate and children of one of the victims of the Davenport building collapse are suing for wrongful death. This is the sixth lawsuit filed.
Brandon Colvin Sr. was one of three people whose bodies were recovered from the wreckage of the apartment building that partially collapsed last month. His five children are seeking compensation over his death.
The lawsuit names building owner Andrew Wold, Wold’s hired engineering firm and contractor, as well as the City of Davenport. It accuses them of negligence saying each entity HAD knowledge of the building’s danger. But FAILED to do anything about it, causing Colvin’s death.
The petitioning children are calling for compensation to pay damages and court fees as well as punitive damages sufficient to punish and prevent it from happening again.
California will delay enforcement of its Proposition 12 animal welfare law.
An injunction of the law was set to expire July 1, but a state superior court has extended it through December 31.
Proposition 12 bans the sale of pork from breeding pigs or their immediate offspring confined in less than 24 square feet of space.
In a statement, the National Pork Producers Council called the delay of enforcement “welcome news.” The industry group says the six more months will ensure pork products already in the supply chain won’t be affected if enforcement of the law had begun next month.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has a new chancellor.
Dr. Rodney D. Bennett was approved by the Board of Regents today. He had been selected as the prime candidate last month.
Bennett will take the helm of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln on July 1, becoming the 21st UNL chancellor, succeeding current Chancellor Ronnie Green upon his retirement, which he announced in December.
Bennett will come to UNL after serving as president of the University of Southern Mississippi.
The Iowa High School Athletic Association is taking its broadcast partner to court, alleging that the Iowa High School Sports Network is violating their deal with its plan to charge a fee to stream certain championship games online.
In a lawsuit filed on Wednesday in Polk County, IHSAA is asking the court to stop IHSSN from charging fees for online streaming beginning with next month’s Iowa high school baseball championships and to clarify a dispute about an alleged contract extension between the two sides.
Submitted news releases:
Gov. Reynolds Announces Leadership Change at Department of Education
DES MOINES – Today, Governor Reynolds has announced a change in leadership at the Department of Education, appointing McKenzie Snow, presently Deputy Secretary of Education in the Commonwealth of Virginia, to replace Chad Aldis as department director. Aldis, who was named director in March of this year, has resigned for family reasons.
Snow’s appointment as Director of the Iowa Department of Education is effective Monday, June 26. Aldis will remain through June 30 to assist with the transition.
“While a leadership change at this time was unexpected, I respect why it’s necessary. I want to thank Director Aldis for his service, and I wish him and his family the very best,” Governor Reynolds stated.
“I’m confident that McKenzie Snow is the right leader for this promising time at the Department of Education. Her leadership experience over state education departments in both Virginia and New Hampshire, at the U.S. Department of Education, and for the White House has earned her the respect of educators and policymakers alike. She has worked to expand career and technical education opportunities that empower students to earn a credential or credit, implement the Science of Reading to drive literacy, and promote transparency and student-centered funding. She will be a tremendous asset as we continue to expand opportunity in Iowa’s education system.”
“Governor Reynolds is an education champion, and I am humbled by her appointment to serve Iowa’s students in partnership with families and teachers,” Snow said. “All children—regardless of their background or zip code—deserve a great education that inspires and prepares them for the future. Together, we will continue to build upon Iowa’s commitment to educational excellence for all children.”
Snow is a national education leader and dedicated public servant who has served students in the classroom, two states, and the federal government. Prior to serving as Virginia Deputy Secretary of Education over early childhood education through postsecondary pathways, she was confirmed and served as New Hampshire Division Director of Academics and Assessment, Special Education, Career Development, Adult Education, Wellness, and Nutrition.
She also served in the federal government as a Special Assistant to the President at the White House Domestic Policy Council, Senior Adviser at the Office of Management and Budget, and Policy Director at the U.S. Department of Education.
In the classroom, Snow taught remedial courses at the University of the Free State in South Africa. She has been named a Fulbright grantee, Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar, and Bush Institute and Clinton Foundation Presidential Leadership Scholar.
Snow is a fifth-generation Kansan. She and her fiancé are excited to return to the Midwest.
Maintenance of Glass Recycling Containers Continues
The City of Sioux City is pleased to report that the glass recycling container located at the Hy-Vee store parking lot at 4500 Sergeant Road is scheduled to be repainted. It will be removed on Friday, June 23, 2023 and will be unavailable for approximately 4-5 weeks.
Residents may continue to drop off glass for recycling at other locations during this time, including:
- Fareway Stores - 4040 War Eagle Drive and 4016 Indian Hills Drive
- Hy-Vee Stores - 3301 Gordon Drive and 2827 Hamilton Boulevard
- Long Lines Family Rec Center Parking Lot – 401 Gordon Drive
- Citizen’s Convenience Center - 5800 28th Street
The last glass recycling container scheduled for maintenance is located at the Fareway store located at 4040 War Eagle Drive.
To date, the glass recycling program has resulted in approximately 1,000 tons of glass made available for recycling from our community. We appreciate everyone who is taking the time to utilize this worthy program.
Heroes needed now: Give blood or platelets
Red Cross offers safety tips for Fourth of July
June 22, 2023 —The American Red Cross wants everyone to enjoy a safe and fun Fourth of July, which includes ensuring a strong blood supply for patients in hospitals across the country. There has been a concerning shortfall in blood donations in recent weeks, and the upcoming holiday could put a further strain on donations, as millions celebrate with family vacations and other seasonal activities. Donors of all blood types, especially those with type B negative or O negative blood as well as platelet donors, are needed to make an appointment to give now to ensure blood remains available for patients this summer.
To encourage blood donations, the Red Cross is offering the following to those who come to give in the coming weeks:
- All who come to give blood, platelets or plasma through June 30 will receive a $10 gift card by email to a merchant of their choice. Those who come to give in June will also be automatically entered for a chance to win a backyard theater package. Details for both offers can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/June.
- All who come to give blood, platelets or plasma July 1-11 will receive an exclusive Red Cross dry bag, while supplies last. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/gifts.
By scheduling and keeping appointments right now, donors can help ensure patients relying on blood donations also get to enjoy their summer. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Have a happy and safe Fourth of July
However people plan to celebrate Independence Day, the Red Cross has several tips to make sure they can do so safely.
Fireworks safety:
- Skip fireworks at home. Attend a public show or celebrate with glow sticks or noise makers instead.
- Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
- Wear eye protection when lighting fireworks.
- Light only one firework at a time, and never attempt to relight "a dud."
Grill safety:
- Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire.
- Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
- Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.
- Make sure everyone, including pets, stays away from the grill.
- Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to help keep the chef safe.
- Wash your hands before preparing the food.
- Don’t leave food out in the hot sun. Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice or freezer gel packs.
For additional tips, including water safety, beach safety and water park safety, visit redcross.org/watersafety.
How to donate blood
To make an appointment, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Amplify your impact − volunteer!
A stable blood and platelet supply is critical to national preparedness. Additionally, as we approach the beginning of what is expected to be another active hurricane season, the Red Cross urges everyone to get ready now and consider becoming a volunteer to help people affected by the growing number of climate-driven disasters.
Support impacted communities by assisting at Red Cross shelters, using your professional skills as a licensed health care provider or becoming a member of the Red Cross Disaster Action Team. To learn more, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.
The Okoboji Summer Theatre Kicks off the July 4 Holiday Week with Farce Classic, See How They Run
–This patron favorite runs July 4-9
<Okoboji, Iowa> June 22 2023 – Opening July 4, “See How They Run” opens at the Okoboji Summer Theatre. Written by Philip King, this classic British farce runs through Sunday, July 9. This production is sponsored by Kemna Okoboji/EV Smart of Okoboji and The Little Swan Lake Winery. SPECIAL NOTE: The Tuesday, July 4th showing of See How They Run will be a 4:30 PM matinee only.
Stephen Brotebeck returns to direct a cast of Stephens College Conservatory students and professional guest artists, including Okoboji veterans Rob Doyen and Jesse Graham Galas and newcomer Sean Birkett.
The action in See How They Run is swift, with plenty of mistaken identities to keep audiences laughing. Galloping in and out of the four doors of an English vicarage are an American actor and actress (he is now stationed with the Air Force in England), a cockney maid who has seen too many American movies, an old maid who "touches alcohol for the first time in her life," four men in clergyman suits presenting the problem of which is which (for disguised as one is an escaped prisoner), and a sedate Bishop aghast at all these goings-on and the trumped up stories they tell him. As one reviewer claims, “See How They Run has all the elements of a top-drawer farce”.
The OST Wine and Beer Bar is now open, perfect for date night at the Okoboji Summer Theatre! On Friday, July 7, join us to hear local music group Paper Moon perform under the awning at 7:30 PM before the show.
Curtain times are Tuesday through Saturday at 8 pm; Saturday matinee at 4:30 pm, Sunday evening at 6 pm. NOTE: The Tuesday, July 4th showing of See How They Run
will be a 4:30 PM matinee only. Tickets are $24. Reservations can be made through the box office (712-332-7773), 2001 US Hwy 71-Okoboji, online at http://tiny.cc/ONLINEticketing (full price tickets only) or email request to boxoffice@okobojisummertheatre.org. Student/senior/military discounts can be found at okobojisummertheatre.org. Box office hours are Monday 10-6, Tuesday through Saturday 10-8:30, and Sunday 5-7.
The 65th ANNIVERSARY season is sponsored by the Andrea Waitt Carlton Family Foundation in memory of Julie Holtze. Additional season sponsors are Krause Gentle Foundation, KUOO/Y100.1/KKOJ, Northwest Bank, Okoboji Realty, Vintage Block Inn & Suites, Polaris, and Hy-Vee.
Curtain times are Tuesday through Saturday at 8 pm; Saturday matinee at 4:30 pm, Sunday evening at 6 pm. Tickets are $24. Reservations can be made through the box office (712-332-7773), 2001 US Hwy 71-Okoboji, online at Eventbrite.com (full price tickets only) or email request to boxoffice@okobojisummertheatre.org. Student/senior/military discounts can be found at okobojisummertheatre.org. Box office hours are Monday 10-6, Tuesday through Saturday 10-8:30, and Sunday 5-7.
Special Ticket Discounts:
- ● Two students, ages 13+ (including college students), will be admitted for the regular price of one on Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
- ● Two senior citizens, age 65 or older, will be admitted for the price of one on Saturday matinees (4:30 pm) and Sunday evenings (6 pm).
- ● Two patrons, all ages, may purchase two-for-one tickets for any Saturday evening (8 pm).
- ● All Active and Reserve military may purchase two-for-one tickets for any evening (8 pm) performance.
Upcoming OST Productions:
Promises, Promises [Musical] July 11-July 16 Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike [Comedy] July 18-23 Cole [Musical] July 25-30 Dial M for Murder [Mystery] August 1-6 The Wedding Singer [Musical] August 8-13
Please 'Like' us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter at @ExperienceOST, check us out on Instagram @okobojisummertheare, and visit okobojisummertheatre.org to learn more about the exciting productions this summer. Use hashtags: #OSTSeason65 #okobojisummertheatre, #stephensbfatheatre, #stephenscollegeconservatory.
Owned and operated by Stephens College, the Okoboji Summer Theatre has been a proud member of the Spirit Lake community since 1958. The College prepares students to become leaders and innovators in a rapidly changing world. With a focus on experiential learning, performing and networking, the Conservatory for the
Performing Arts at Stephens College prepares performers and creatives to succeed in the highly competitive world of theatre, television and film. www.stephens.edu and www.okoboijsummertheatre.org.
Boji Bantam Children’s Theatre opens the season with The Mother Goose News Hour, July 5-8
<Okoboji, Iowa> June 2023 – The Boji Bantam’s Children Theatre presents its first of two productions this summer, The Mother Goose News Hour running Wednesday, July 5 through Saturday, July 8 at 10:30am.
Little Boy Blue has gone missing! Oh where, oh where could he be? Don't fret — The Mother Goose News Hour is on the case, providing live coverage of the latest and greatest happenings in the world of nursery rhymes. Hum along to your favorites as we watch Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater and a cast of familiar characters band together to give us the news and unravel the mystery.
The Boji Bantam Children’s Theatre is located at the Okoboji Summer Theatre, 2001 US-71, Okoboji, IA. Tickets are $7 for patrons of all ages and are available at the door only on the day of the show. Doors open at 10:00am. Please arrive early as seats fill up fast. For groups of 10 or more, contact the box office at 712-332-7773.
Boji Bantam productions feature professional guest artists alongside young local actors. The productions this season are directed by OST alum, Madison Dodd, and feature recent Stephens alumna Kaitlyn G. Smith, Raegan Grisolano, and Rachael Perez.
Please 'Like' us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter at @ExperienceOST, check us out on Instagram @okobojisummertheare, and visit okobojisummertheatre.org to learn more about the exciting productions this summer. Use hashtags: #OSTSeason65