All-School Play

by Michael Cooley

The Creston High School plays begin tonight in the auditorium, and participants say they're looking forward to showing off their hard work. Keirston Henry, a junior, is publicity director for the plays this year.

“There's about thirty students on our cast this year, and it's called 'Zombie Movie,'” Henry tells Creston Radio News.

Henry says the cast has invested a lot of time in rehearsal for the final performances.

“They've spent roughly about 26 hours so far,” says Henry. “That's not including their extra time at home. That's just in class, regular practices.”

According to Henry, a lot of people behind the scenes have also contributed toward the show's success.

“We have a lot of people that have spent many hours doing painting and set production,” Henry explains. “We couldn't do it without them.”

The shows are tonight and tomorrow night, both starting at 7:00pm. Advance reserve tickets are available by calling the activities department at the high school. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for students. Activity passes are not accepted.

State Boards, Commissions Appointments

by Michael Cooley

The Iowa Senate has confirmed the appointments of dozens of Iowans to state-level boards and commissions, as recommended by Governor Chet Culver. Of the list, several new appointments and re-appointments are from the Creston Radio listening area.

Those appointees include Denise Mandi of Winterset, who was re-appointed to the Board of Podiatry. A new appointment, Joyce Hoepker of Bedford, will serve a year on the Commission on Community Action Agencies. Meanwhile, Catherine Reamen-Gerdes of St. Charles was re-appointed to the Criminal & Juvenile Justice Planning Advisory Council. For the Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Board, K. Allen Hillgren of Stuart will serve an additional year. Connie Maxson of Creston was newly appointed to the School Budget Review Committee. Finally, Fred Diehl of Osceola was re-appointed to the Vision Iowa Board.

Fire Departments Get Grants

by Michael Cooley

Two local fire departments have been selected to receive grants through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley says the Leon Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department is set to get about $35,000 in free money, while the Prescott Fire and Rescue Department will see just over $15,000 in grant funding.

The money will come from FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters Grants Operations and Safety Program, which provides money to supplement training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness, and health and safety modifications to stations and facilities.

Grassley says day in and day out, firefighters put their lives on the line for the good of their community and that it's important those men and women have the necessary equipment and training to help keep the community safe.