Breaking News

News Brief

Man pleads guilty in Kossuth Co. pursuit

ALGONA — A man who led law enforcement officers on a vehicle pursuit in northern Kossuth County in January has entered a guilty plea that will apparently spare him from prison, according to court records. Jose L. Renteria, 41, of Lakota, pleaded guilty to eluding, second or subsequent offense, court records show. Under the terms of the plea agreement, he would be sentenced to a five-year prison term, which would be suspended, and four years of probation. He would also have to pay a $1,025 fine, plus any restitution. The Kossuth County Sheriff’s Office has entered a claim of ...

Grant awarded for Lohrville spray pad

LOHRVILLE — The City of Lohrville was awarded a $53,000 state Community Attraction and Tourism grant to build a 1,550-square-foot spray pad at Lohrville City Park, according to the Iowa Economic Development Authority. The project will include approximately 20 interactive water features for multiple age groups and abilities, supported by a recirculation system to collect, treat and reuse water. As the first spray pad in Calhoun County, it will expand recreational access and enhance regional quality of life. The total project cost is $178,897.

No paper Monday due to the holiday

The Messenger will not be published on Monday in commemoration of the Presidents Day holiday. The Messenger office will be open Monday during normal business hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check www.messengernews.net over the weekend for breaking news. The Messenger will resume publication on Tuesday.

Dayton Community Club plans fundraiser

DAYTON — The Dayton Community Club will hold its membership drive and fundraiser meal from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m Feb. 22 in the Dayton Community Center. The menu will be chili and a baked potato bar. Free will donations will be accepted. All proceeds from the meal will be used for playground equipment at Oak Park. Those who wish to donate to the club should contact Jody at Security State Bank. The Dayton Community Club consists of neighbors working together to improve the town. The club’s projects include the Dayton Expo, Ladies Night Out, Old Engine Day, food stands at the ...

State Patrol plans enforcement effort

Drivers should expect to see more Iowa State Patrol cars and troopers around Fort Dodge on Friday. The State Patrol will be conducting a high visibility enforcement effort, according to Trooper Paul Gardner. “There will be more troopers working the area,” he said. “The public will see more State Patrol cars.” He said troopers will be targeting speeding, seatbelt violations and violations of the new state law requiring all electronic devices to be used in hands-free mode while driving. At night, the troopers will also be targeting drunk driving.

NW Iowa League of Cities announces high school senior scholarships

The Northwest Iowa League of Cities announces its High School Senior Scholarship Program. High school seniors in Northwest Iowa League member communities pursuing post-secondary education or training in fields that may lead to city government careers — like public administration, water/wastewater, law enforcement, firefighting, EMS, city planning, public engineering, and more are eligible. How to apply: • Contact your City Hall for an application • Or email Angela Duitsman at angela@fondaiowa.com Deadline: April 15, 2026 Scholarships: Up to five awards of $1,000 each, ...