KNIA – KRLS

Newton School Superintendent Tom Messinger talks about the results of a recent survey of the elementary school population based on existing elementary school boundaries, the priority of relaying elementary school assignments for students and staff right after Christmas break, and the latest districtwide enrollment.

Newton Police Chief Rob Burdess talks about the upcoming opening of the city’s new animal control facility, how the community stepped up to help return runaway animals while this facility was being readied, and when the animal control facility will be open.

Newton Main Street Executive Director Erin Yeager talks about the requirements that must be met to qualify for the Main Street Program, what the program does to assist downtown businesses, and how shopping locally is important. 

Newton School Superintendent Tom Messinger talks about where things stand with the school board’s discussion on the future of the Emerson Hough and Woodrow Wilson Elementary schools, and the conditions of the buildings.

Executive Dean of the Newton DMACC Campus Bill Peters talks about Saturday’s upcoming Community Holiday Christmas at the DMACC Building, all the free activities that will be available for kids, and a Newton Main Street Vendors Market that will be held at the same time.

Executive Director of the Centre For Arts and Artists in Newton Sophie Kruger talks about the facility and what it does and how it assists local artists, and the gift shop they have.

Newton Pacesetters Dance Team Member Lily Bowes talks about performing as a solo finalist at the Iowa State Dance Team Association Championship in Des Moines last week, as well as competing with the team in four other state events, and how dancing may be part of her college experience.

Jasper County Veterans Affairs Director Ray Maxey talks about a monthly veterans comrade coffee they are starting in Newton, how well a similar event in November went, and the approximate number of veterans in Jasper County.

Jasper County Historical  Museum Board Member Dave Rorabaugh talks about the Museum’s 5th Annual Tree-Mendous Christmas Fundraiser which opens at the museum this weekend, and how it features around 200 decorated Christmas Trees. 

Discover Hope Ministries in Newton is celebrating its 10th anniversary and held an Open House this week, and the Founder and Executive Director, Robbie Robinson, talks about why and how he started Discover Hope and how it serves people fighting drug addiction today.