(Atlantic, Iowa) – A lightning strike a little after 7-a.m. today (Wednesday), in Atlantic, caused a power outage for about 650 residents on the south side of town. AMU Comptroller Jennifer Saathoff told KJAN News lightning struck a power pole near 22nd and Olive Streets, causing the outage and setting the pole on fire.

Power was restored to most customers between 8:15-and 8:30-a.m., a little later for other customers.

DES MOINES, IA – The Iowa Business Council (IBC) has released its second-quarter Economic Outlook Survey (EOS) for 2023. The report measures member expectations for sales, capital spending and employment for the next six months. If the index measures above 50, sentiment is positive. The second-quarter survey’s overall economic outlook index is 64.17, an increase of 4.45 from the 2023 first-quarter report. The survey’s findings indicate a strong confidence in Iowa’s economy and represent a significant increase in optimism across all areas measured by the IBC compared to the previous quarter’s results. Specifically, sales expectations among IBC members increased by 3.47 to a value of 68.75. Capital spending expectations increased by 4.31 to 61.25 and employment expectations increased by 5.56 to a value of 62.50.

Concerns relating to workforce attraction and retention remain the number one concern with 90% of surveyed IBC executives listing it as a primary business challenge. An unfavorable business climate tied specifically to supply chain challenges was the second primary concern cited by 55% of IBC executives. The cost of products and services continues to round out the top three business challenges with 50% of IBC members reporting inflation as a core concern.

From a workforce perspective, 80% of IBC executives surveyed report that it is somewhat to very difficult to hire employees compared to 94% from the first-quarter survey. Phil Jasper, President of Mission Systems for Collins Aerospace and Chair of the Iowa Business Council, said “IBC members remain confident in Iowa’s economic position. Despite a narrative of an impending downturn in the national economy, Iowa business leaders are optimistic about the future here in Iowa.” IBC President Joe Murphy said “These results show a continued resiliency among IBC companies and the state of Iowa as a whole. Iowa business leaders remain agile and skilled in their ability to plan for potential future disruptions while continuing to put forward pro-growth strategies throughout our state.”

The Economic Outlook Survey has been completed by IBC members on a quarterly basis since 2004. The report provides insight regarding the projected trends for the state of Iowa, which can be used for business and economic planning. The reported trends have a state-wide impact, especially when considering that IBC companies have a presence in all 99 counties

(Atlantic, Iowa) – A reminder to citizens of Atlantic: Fireworks are allowed within the City Limits from 6- until 11-p.m., from Friday (June 30) through Tuesday, July 4^th. The City Council set those dates and times during their meeting June 7^th. The City said also, citizens should be aware of that only individuals 18 and older may purchase fireworks. Furthermore, persons under the age of 18 may only set-off fireworks under the DIRECT SUPERVISION of an Adult. Other rules include:

• It is illegal to set-off fireworks if you are intoxicated or impaired.
• Only shoot fireworks on your OWN property, or where permission has been given.
• NO Fireworks may be discharged within 300-feet of public school buildings, Assisted Living Facilities, or Hospital.
• You are liable for fireworks in your possession and those discharged by you.
• Do not alter, remove or handle powder from fireworks. Never disassemble fireworks
• Use fireworks according to directions, and NEVER point them at humans or animals.

Violating fireworks laws will result in costly fines, starting at $250.

The 2023 City-sponsored fireworks display contract was awarded to last year’s vendor, “Wild Wayne’s.” The company will fire-off their display at dusk/dark on July 4^th, at the Well Fields next to the Atlantic Sports Complex, across from the KJAN Studios.

In addition, on the 4^th of July, the Atlantic Rotary will hold their Flight Breakfast at the Atlantic Airport. The menu features all you can eat pancakes by The Pancake Man, sausage and drinks, for just $8. Fly-In Pilots eat for free! Proceeds support Atlantic Rotary Service Projects. The Flight breakfast takes place from 7-until 11-a.m., Tuesday.

The City of Atlantic’s Police, Fire and EMS personnel want you to have fun, and celebrate the Independence holiday responsibly and safely.

(Red Oak, Iowa) – Police in Red Oak report a man was arrested Tuesday night on a Montgomery County warrant. 18-year-old Kaiden Dale Jarvis Schooling, of Red Oak, was arrested in the 900 block of N. 6th Street, at around 9:07-p.m. He was wanted on a warrant for Failure to Appear (in Court). Schooling was also charged with Disorderly Conduct (A simple misdemeanor). He was being held in the Montgomery County Jail on a $1,000 bond.