By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

During the March 27 monthly meeting of the Guthrie County Hospital Board, the trustees heard from Cris Kuhns, bond counsel for the hospital’s upcoming construction project. She outlined the next steps in the process and the funding plans.

Regarding the upcoming fiscal year budget, GCH CEO Chris Stipe explained the ongoing process.

“We’ll be publishing a proposed budget,” Stipe said. “Whatever we put in the paper is proposed, because the board still has to vote on it, and we can change it.”

Foundation Director Dennis Flanery shared details on upcoming foundation events and voiced appreciation for corporate and local family sponsorships.

“We’re working on getting our golf letters out. This will be our 25^th anniversary golf event, so this year we’re going to do a little something extra. More to come on that,” Flanery said.

Danielle Lauzon reported on strong patient satisfaction survey data.

“The ER score is just off the charts. Surgery is at 100%,” CEO Chris Stipe said.

The next meeting of the trustees is set for April 24 at 4 p.m. in the Todd-Neff Conference Room. The public is welcome to join in person or via remote technology. Details can be found at www.guthriecountyhospital.org.

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

A fish fry will be held at Saint John’s Catholic Church, 804 Fifth St., Adair, tonight, March 28, from 5-7 p.m. For $15 per meal, guests will receive freshly fried breaded fish and shrimp, scalloped potatoes, coleslaw, dessert and a drink. Dine in or drive-thru. Enter the alley behind the church from the west.

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

As of this morning, an open burn ban continues in effect until further notice for all of Guthrie County. A burn ban means conditions are drier than normal and fire risk is much higher. A countywide burn ban may be issued by the State Fire Marshal when a majority of Fire Chiefs in the county concur. Individual cities or fire districts may also issue a burn ban for specific areas.

During a countywide burn ban, campfires, fire pits and backyard fireplaces are generally still allowed, assuming safe practices are used. Check for city, campground or park regulations to be sure.

Penalties for violating a burn ban may include up to 30 days in jail and/or fines of $105 to $800. During a burn ban, local fire chiefs are able to approve permits for controlled burns. More information about burn bans is available from the Adair/Guthrie County Emergency Management Agency or from Guthrie County’s website (guthriecounty.gov).

By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette

On Saturday, April 26, the annual Bonnie and Clyde races will be held — with a new twist. For the first time, an 18-mile bicycle ride will be one of the races offered.

The 5-mile run/walk starts at 9 a.m. at the Dexter Museum, 719 Marshall St., with a registration cost of $35. The 18-mile bicycle ride begins at 9:15 a.m. in Stuart and costs $35 for registration. The 1-mile run/walk starts at 9:30 a.m. in Stuart with a $30 registration cost. The starting area in Stuart is 100 N.W. Second St. The fees listed are in effect through April 20. Thereafter, the cost will increase. Competitors may register at www.getmeregistered.com and then search for “dexter.”

From the Iowa Department of Natural Resources

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is investigating a stormwater drainage ditch containing dark colored water near the North Raccoon River in Jefferson in Greene County.

On March 26 at 7:50 p.m., the DNR Field Office in Atlantic was notified of dark colored water observed in a stormwater ditch in Daubendiek Park on the southwest side of Jefferson. The stormwater ditch drains to the North Raccoon River.

DNR field staff responded to the incident and, upon arrival, observed multiple pockets of discolored water in the ditch. Water samples were collected and delivered to the State Hygienic Laboratory for further analysis. Officials are investigating the source of the discolored water but do not believe any reached the North Raccoon River. No dead fish were observed in the area.

Cleanup efforts have begun. City staff constructed a berm in the stormwater ditch, which currently has low flow, to prevent contamination from reaching the North Raccoon River. Residents are advised to avoid contact with water in the drainage ditch at this time.

Anyone with information on the incident is urged to contact Kristi Burg at 712-340-3076.

To report a release after hours, call the DNR’s emergency spill line at 515-725-8694. Quick reporting can help DNR staff identify the cause of an incident. The DNR website has more information about spill reporting requirements.