MASON CITY – The Mason City library board is meeting Tuesday afternoon, and things could get weird when the agenda reaches the “Book challenge” item, as some citizens are furious that certain books available to kids offer startling images of human genitalia, naked lessons on how to get wild pleasure, or even transmit po r no graphic material. Meanwhile, other citizens who want kids to have access to these books are equally disturbed that they could get banned altogether or moved farther away from the “children’s” area.
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Northern Iowa woman nabbed for drunk driving after returning to accident scene
Police say this Northern Iowa woman left a bar, got behind the wheel and backed into a parked car before leaving the scene of the collision, but as cops arrived to investigate, the tipsy boozer drove back to the scene with her pal, and they both shotgunned a tall cold can of comeuppance.
College Wrestling: No. 7 Iowa Hawkeyes steamroll Purdue, 32-6
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The seventh-ranked University of Iowa wrestling team defeated Purdue, 32-6, on Sunday afternoon at Holloway Gymnasium.
Women’s College Basketball: No. 13 Iowa 80, Nebraska 67
LINCOLN, Neb. – No. 13 Iowa (20-5, 11-3) defeated Nebraska (16-10, 5-10) inside Pinnacle Bank Arena on Monday afternoon, 80-67. The Hawkeyes have earned 10 consecutive seasons of 20 wins for the second time in school history.
U.S. rapidly implementing President Trump’s vision for Venezuelan oil
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Now that Venezuelan drug kingpin Nicholas Maduro and his fancy wife are locked up probably forever in an American prison, President Donald Trump and his administration are wasting no time in cranking up the oil wells and snatching all the wealth possible for U.S. taxpayers.
Iowa teen girl reported missing
An Iowa teen girl appears to have run away days ago, carrying a backpack, and police are seeking clues as to brining her home safely.
College Wrestling: No. 4 Iowa State Cyclones derail No. 15 UNI Panthers, 28-6
AMES – No. 4 Iowa State defeated in-state rival No. 15 UNI Sunday night in front of a rowdy Hilton Coliseum crowd. The Cyclones took eight of 10 matches from the Panthers, including the first five of the dual, to come out on top, 28-6.
OBIT: Russell Dean “Russ” Steenblock
Russell Dean “Russ” Steenblock, 76, of Mason City, Iowa, passed away surrounded by his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend, Russ lived a life marked by hard work, loyalty, faith, and quiet strength.
OBIT: Bernita Ann Stanton
Bernita Ann Stanton, 95, of Greene, passed away peacefully Friday, February 13, 2026, in Mason City, Iowa after a short illness. Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 1:00 PM at St. Mary Catholic Church in Greene.
OBIT: Josie “Jo” Schmitz
Josie “Jo” Schmitz, 60, of Eldora, Iowa, passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026, at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City, Iowa. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Abels Funeral and Cremation Services, Creps – Chapel in Eldora.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Vehicle Shipping Services From the USA to India
Did you know that moving a vehicle across international borders requires careful planning and coordination across multiple steps? The process involves compliance, timing, and attention to detail that can influence how smoothly…
OBIT: Olive Ferguson
Olive Ferguson, age 103 of Lake View, IA, passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Twilight Acres Nursing Home in Wall Lake, IA
Iowa Senator Doug Campbell says Senate advances school spending bill worth $8,133 per student
Iowa Senator Doug Campbell of Mason City says students are getting a good deal with a Senate bill that advanced last week.
“Under this bill, the state would be spending $8,133 per student in Iowa, not including local or federal sources of money. Including all sources of funding – state, federal and local – Iowans are investing over $19,200 per student. The state’s funding formula for how much public-school districts can spend on operations each year uses the district’s certified enrollment multiplied by a per-pupil amount, which is $7,988 this year and would be bumped up to $8,133 next year under the bill,” Campbell said. “This proposal was passed by the Senate (last) week. Public school enrollment has declined, and school employees have increased. This expenditure represents 50% of the state’s budget.”
But Democrats want to spend more.
OBIT: Marilyn Carol Dallmann
Marilyn Carol Dallmann, the daughter of Chet and Myrtle (Olson) Torreson, was born on October 25, 1931, in Wallingford, Iowa. She passed away on February 14, 2026, at her home in Estherville at the age of 94 years.
Rep. Shannon Latham says week 5 in Iowa Legislature focused on ag policy
“Week five of the legislative session focused on advancing policies that support Iowa’s agricultural community, strengthen economic growth and ensure responsible stewardship of public resources,” said Rep. Shannon Latham. “House Committees took action this week on legislation ranging from right-to-repair protections for farmers to statewide initiatives addressing cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Lawmakers also reviewed insurance trends impacting Iowa drivers and introduced measures aimed at improving accountability within public assistance programs. Alongside committee work, it was a pleasure to welcome constituents and student advocates to the Capitol to discuss their group’s priorities.”
OBIT: Kathleen Irene Garcia
Kathleen Irene Garcia, 90, of Mason City, died on Saturday, February 14,2026, at Good Shepherd Health Center with her loving family by her side. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.
OBIT: Kathy Kay Roberts
Kathy Kay Roberts, 70, of Rockwell, Iowa, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City, surrounded by the love of her family. In accordance with Kathy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
Panther men’s basketball rolls to impressive 86-62 win over Drake
CEDAR FALLS – At least four Panthers scored in double figures for a third straight game on Sunday afternoon as the UNI men’s basketball team put on an offensive show in an 86-62 win over in-state rival Drake inside the McLeod Center in Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) action.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio lectures European leaders on defense of Western “way of life” (VIDEO)
MUNICH, GERMANY – Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed the Munich Security Conference in a speech championing the leading role of the U.S. on the world stage, the Trump Administration’s American First foreign policy, and America’s deep commitment to the future of Europe and Western Civilization.
College Wrestling: UNI Panthers fall to West Virginia, 23-13
CEDAR FALLS – UNI wrestling grabbed victories in four matches, including a thrilling come-from-behind win at 125 pounds on Saturday night but would fall short as the 15th ranked Panthers fell to No. 19 West Virginia in Big 12 dual action inside the McLeod Center, 23-13.
Women’s College Basketball: Iowa State Cyclones down Kansas State, 76-72
AMES – Jada Williams (22) and Audi Crooks (20) combined to pour in 42 points as Iowa State held off Kansas State for the 76-72 win Sunday afternoon at Hilton Coliseum.
The Cyclones moved to 20-6 overall and 8-6 in Big 12 action.
OBIT: Eldon Doane
Eldon Doane, 82, of Thornton, passed away Thursday, February 12, 2026 at Westview Care Center in Britt. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, February 17 at 10:30 AM at the Thornton United Methodist Church, with interment at Pleasant View Cemetery in Thornton.
OBIT: John D Bailey
John D. Bailey, 85, of Mason City, Iowa, formerly of Clear Lake, Iowa, passed away on February 14, 2026, at Good Shepherd Health Center in Mason City.
OBIT: Randy L. Bartie
Randy L. Bartie, 52, of rural Fredericksburg, died unexpectedly, Sunday, February 15, 2026, at his home.
OBIT: Bonnie Jean Grimm
Bonnie Jean Grimm, age 92, of Osage, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Scenic Manor in Iowa Falls, Iowa.
OBIT: Gary Gene Mork
Gary Gene Mork, age 91, passed away peacefully, February 14, 2026, at Mitchell County Regional Health Center, surrounded by his family. A Funeral Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Thursday, February 19th, 2026, at 11:00. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service. Burial will take place in New Haven Cemetery.
College Basketball: No. 5 Iowa State Cyclones crush No. 9 Kansas Jayhawks, 74-56
AMES – No. 5 Iowa State (22-3, 9-3 Big 12) used a little Hilton Magic and sharp shooting in the second half to knock off No. 9 Kansas (19-6, 9-3 Big 12) 74-56 Saturday afternoon in Hilton Coliseum.
The victory keeps the Cyclones unbeaten at home this season (14-0) and 47-2 at home in the last three seasons. It also ended KU’s eight-game winning streak.
OBIT: Lois Carlberg
Mrs. Lois Carlberg, 86, went to be with our Lord and Savior on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Methodist Manor in Storm Lake, IA.
OBIT: Beatrice Elaine Abbas
Beatrice (Bea) Elaine Abbas, 85 of Alden, Iowa, passed away Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the Hubbard Care Center. Funeral service for Bea Abbas will be 11:00 AM, February 18, 2026, at the Alden United Methodist Church, 1512 Hardin Street, Alden, Iowa.
OBIT: Joyce M. Pavek
Joyce Marie Pavek, of Mason City, passed away Friday, February 13, 2026, at the Good Shepherd Health Center. She was 87 years old. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 11:30 a.m., at Major Erickson Funeral Home.
UNI mourns the passing of football student-athlete Parker Sutherland
CEDAR FALLS – The University of Northern Iowa community is mourning the loss of Panther football student-athlete Parker Sutherland, who passed away on Saturday morning.
Three-vehicle crash on Northern Iowa road sends women to hospital
LESTER, IOWA — Two women were airlifted to a hospital in critical condition Thursday afternoon following a severe three-vehicle collision involving a propane tanker in Northern Iowa.
OBIT: Judy Nolte
Judy Nolte, 86, of Sheffield, passed away, Friday, February 6, 2026, at Franklin General Hospital, Hampton while under Hospice Care. Memorial services will be held 11 AM, Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Zion St. John Lutheran Church, Sheffield.
OBIT: Lisa Ann Payne
Lisa Ann Payne, 62, passed away in her home on February 13, 2026. In accordance with Lisa’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no public services will be held at this time.
OBIT: Robert Newton
Robert was born on October 21st, 1940 and passed away on February 14th, 2026 at the age of 85
Clear Lake police arrest drunk driver with kids in car
CLEAR LAKE – A Northern Iowa man is facing serious charges after police in Clear Lake stopped him for erratic driving with kids inside his car, possibly impacting his quest for custody.
Dental Costs Are Rising, A Practical Guide to Planning a Safe Dental Trip to Mexico
When dental care gets expensive, it is normal to look for options that feel more manageable. For many North Iowa families, the real stress is not just the bill, it is the…
College Wrestling: No. 4 Iowa State Cyclones dominate No. 18 West Virginia, 32-7
AMES – It was all Cyclones in a top-20 Big 12 showdown Friday night at Hilton Coliseum, as No. 4 Iowa State won eight matches to beat No. 18 West Virginia 32-7. It was the eighth-straight win over the Mountaineers, as Iowa State improved to 23-2 all-time against West Virginia.
Iowa Senator Joni Ernst grills Minnesota Democrat Keith Ellison on massive fraud conspiracy (VIDEO)
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) challenged Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison to explain how fraud was allowed to flourish and go unpunished in his state and gave her January Squeal Award to Governor Tim Walz for allowing scammers to rip off taxpayers.
OBIT: Delores Ann Mindrup
Delores Ann Mindrup, 80, of Mesa, Arizona, and formerly of Clear Lake, Iowa, passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Zion Lutheran Church.