Several first responders were out in subzero temperatures overnight, working to knock down a house fire near 24th and Meadow Drive on the west end of Blair.     Blair, Herman, Kennard, Fort Calhoun, Bennington and Irvington Fire and Rescue responded, along with Blair Police, Washington County Sheriff’s Office and 911 dispatchers.     Two residents were rescued and transported to the hospital with smoke inhalation, both are listed in serious condition at this time according to

Yesterday, when Woodbine, Iowa Elementary School principal Jill Ridder planned a ceremony to celebrate the student’s recent state test scores. Instead, she found HER name announced as the nation’s newest Milken Educator Award Recipient. Milken Educator Awards Senior Vice President Dr. Jane Foley, along with Iowa Department of Education Director McKenzie Snow presented Ridder with that honor along with a 25 thousand dollar cash prize.     Ridder is Iowa’s 49th recipient since

86 year old Nancy Sherill Skelton passed away January 18th. She is survived by her children, Tammy Podraza, Kim Riggle, Trachy McHugh and Chris Guinan and their families. Visitation is tomorrow at 10, the funeral service is at 11, both at the United Methodist Church in Missouri Valley. 37 year old Karisha Lee Pablonis passed away January 12th. A Celebration of Life is this Sunday, 1 to 4 pm at the Eagles Club in Missouri Valley. 76 year old Linda Boehler Salter of Missouri Va