Viva Perry Latino Festival Saturday in Perry
Though there will be a wide variety of activities for people of all ages to take part in this weekend, there’s more than just a parade, crafts and food behind this Viva Perry Latino Festival.
Organizer Jon Wolseth with Hispanics United for Perry says its truly a collaborative effort.
“It really harkens into this ability to celebrate who we are and celebrate the changes that are happening in this community. I think it speaks volumes about Perry that we have such a diverse group of people and institutions that are involved in making this festival happen.”
Rosa Gonzales, who is also with HUP says just planning for the event has been rewarding.
“To help provide an opportunity for people to showcase what they do best or what they really like to do is important because I believe that everyone who participates feels proud in being able to give some time and the things they like to do. I really like it.”
The event kicks off with a parade downtown Perry starting at 10am Saturday and festivities continue until 9pm.
Perry Police Warn Against Scam
The Perry Police Department warns the public of a scam that has been targeting residents this week.
According to the department, residents have been receiving calls from an entity claiming to be Alliant Energy. The caller demands payment and threatens to turn off the power if they do not receive money within an hour.
The phone calls are coming from 844-834-2554. Everyone is encouraged to not give the caller any personal information as this is a scam and not a representative from Alliant. These types of calls often target elderly residents and if you have concerns with a questionable call, contact the police department.
Anyone with questions on their power bill can call Alliant Energy at 800-255-4266.
Unemployment Rates Decrease in July
Unemployment rates dropped in all three counties in our primary coverage area last month.
According to Iowa Workforce Development, Dallas County’s unemployment rate decreased from 3 percent in June to 2.7 percent in July. Greene County saw a four tenths of a percent drop last month to 3.5 percent and Guthrie County’s unemployment rate decreased by two-tenths to 3.1 percent in July.
All three counties are fairing better now than they were a year ago when unemployment ranged from 3.4 percent in Dallas County, to 4.1 percent in Guthrie and 4.4 percent in Greene.
The statewide unemployment rate increased slightly last month to 3.8 percent, while the national unemployment rate in July was 5.3 percent.
Raccoon Valley Radio to Air Meet the Candidates: School Board Election Magazine
As we’ve reported, there are six names on the ballot for three open positions on the Perry Community School District’s Board of Education this year.
Two incumbents are running again, as Jim Lutmer and Kenia Alarcon look to serve another four-year term. Meanwhile, Pete Malmberg, Corey Eastman, Susan Brelsford and Linda Andorf are each hoping to secure a spot at the table for the first time.
So why did each candidate decide to run? What changes are they hoping to see in the school district? What do they feel are Perry’s strengths and weaknesses?
Join us next Thursday, September 3rd for a special school board election program right here on the Raccoon Valley Radio network. We will ask each candidate those questions and more, to help you get informed on the issues before the September 8th election.
Plan to join us at 6pm September 3rd on AM 1310 KDLS and the new 99.7 FM. The program will also be available on-demand via our website and mobile streaming apps through election day.
Weekly Rain Total Update
The local weather reporting areas that typically see the most rain in August have been the driest this year.
According to the National Weather Service, another 0.43 inches of rain fell over Perry this past week for a total of just under 2.7 inches this month. Jefferson saw another 1.6 inches of rain for a total of 4.8 inches since August 1st and Guthrie Center received 0.37 inch of rain for a total of 3.8 inches this month.
Normal monthly averages are just over 4 inches in Perry, 3.9 inches in Jefferson and 4.3 inches in Guthrie Center.