Nominations are wanted for the the 2013 Master Pork Producer and Environmental Steward awards.

The Iowa Pork Producers Association began the program in 1942.

“Iowa’s pork producers represent some of the most efficient, innovative and adaptive in the industry,” said Tyler Bettin, IPPA producer education director. “It is important that we continue to recognize the efforts of our best and brightest producers. Doing this demonstrates to consumers our commitment to the environment and production of safe food while also educating other producers of best management practices and industry opportunities.”

Award recipients will be recognized at the 2014 Iowa Pork Congress in January and will receive a $1,000 cash award.

Nomination forms and instructions can be found at iowapork.org.

DART wants rider feedback and has scheduled six public meetings to do so.

They’ll run from April 15th to 18th and will be an opportunity for the public to learn about the 2013 service proposal. The proposal includes adding night services on two east-side Des Moines routes, expanding night service for all routes later into the evenings, and expanding hours of operation on weekends

MONDAY, APRIL 15

·        Noon – 1:30 p.m., DART Central Station, 620 Cherry Street, Des Moines

·        5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., Four Mile Community Center, 3711 Easton Boulevard, Des Moines

TUESDAY, APRIL 16

·        Noon – 1:30 p.m., DART Central Station, 620 Cherry Street, Des Moines

Merle Hay Road Gateway Area is set for a revamp.

The Johnston City Council last Fall asked for the services of AECOM and Hoisington Koegler Group to conduct a market analysis and redevelopment plan.

The stretch from south of NW 55th Avenue along both sides of Merle Hay Road to Interstate 35/80 is thought of as an important access route to the city.

The hope is to maximize the potential of the area.

So far, three redevelopment concepts have been proposed. The public is welcome to attend a consultation on March 26th from 6-7.30 p.m. at Johnston Public library to offer their views on the project.