Breaking News

Professor picked to lead Center for Intellectual Freedom

The Iowa Board of Regents has made another final selection for the Center for Intellectual Freedom at the University of Iowa’s permanent leader after its previous choice rejected the offer. After closed-session interviews Wednesday afternoon, the board announced at its Nov. 12 meeting that UI political science associate professor Brian Lai would serve as the center’s new director. Board President Robert Cramer said in his board report that the center is getting a restart. “The Center for Intellectual Freedom at the University of Iowa did not work this past year,” Cramer ...

MNW honors ‘experienced soldiers’

MANSON — Local veterans were honored Wednesday morning during a Veterans Day program at Manson Northwest Webster Junior/Senior High School, led by FFA and Student Council members. “It is a day we stand and support our fellow Americans who have so proudly served our country in the armed ...

‘Freedom is not automatic’

GOWRIE — Honoring veterans can begin with a thank you, but Matteo Luna challenged students at Southeast Valley High School on Wednesday to carry that gratitude into the way they also live. “Here’s one thing that we can all do to show our thanks to veterans,” Luna said. “Go out and ...

Taking center stage with Greyson Chance

Becoming a drum major for Fort Dodge Senior High’s All-American Marching Band was the perfect catalyst for Greyson Chance. The Fort Dodge Senior High student has plans after high school to be involved in band, so this opportunity was a perfect fit for the senior. “Being a drum major has pushed me to be a better person, a better leader, and a better musician,” Chance said. “ I had to make sure to be more responsible with my time, my actions, and more responsible for my fellow band members. “ It means a lot to me that Mr. (Al) Paulson (band director) would entrust me with such ...

Painting holiday magic

HUMBOLDT — One year ago, Kelsey Olson was learning how to turn business windows into holiday canvases. This year, her artwork has taken her across state lines and brought her back to a childhood favorite, where she is giving young visitors something they can touch, explore and enjoy. The ...

Webster City resident was a Tuskegee Airman

WEBSTER CITY — When it came time to serve his country during World War II, Maurice V. Esters looked to the sky. The late Webster City man enlisted in the Army Air Force and became one of the Tuskegee Airmen, America's first black fighter pilots. He was one of 12 Iowans to be part of that ...