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“No Kings” Protest in Oskaloosa Draws Regional Support Amid National Unrest

Demonstrators gather across multiple levels at the “No Kings” protest in Oskaloosa on June 14, 2025, with participants lining the pedestrian bridge near William Penn University and filling the surrounding hillside to display signs and call for the protection of democratic norms. (photo by Chad Farner)

OSKALOOSA, Iowa (June 14, 2025) — Amid escalating tensions over national protests and a wave of political violence, Saturday’s “No Kings” gathering in Oskaloosa highlighted both local discontent and a disturbing connection to recent murders of elected officials in Minnesota. The demonstration took place on the pedestrian bridge near William Penn University, drawing members of the Mahaska […]

Air-Cooled Antiques Return to Oskaloosa for Nostalgic Gathering

Attendees at the Air Cooled Antiques of Iowa car show in Oskaloosa take a closer look at a vibrant green Volkswagen bus—one of several vintage air-cooled vehicles showcased during the nostalgic gathering at Rock Island Tap.

OSKALOOSA, Iowa — The Rock Island Tap served as the nostalgic backdrop for the return of the “Air Cooled Antiques of Iowa” car show on Saturday, reviving memories and engines alike as classic air-cooled vehicles stole the show at the Rock Island Tap with personality and charm. Originally held in 2013 at the same location, […]

BBQ 4 Badges Returns for Its 8th Year: Smokin’ Good Food, Big Support for Local First Responders

Team 'Meat Sweats' during BBQ4Badges 2021.

OSKALOOSA, Iowa — The smell of smoked meats will once again fill the air around the Oskaloosa Square as the 8th Annual BBQ 4 Badges takes place on Saturday, June 21, in support of Mahaska County’s emergency responders. The grassroots event, led by organizer Wyndell Campbell, has grown into a beloved community tradition, drawing in […]

The Mahaska Legacy: How a Native Peacemaker and a Union Gunboat Carried One Name into History

OSKALOOSA, Iowa — It’s easy to forget what a name carries. For most of us, Mahaska is the county on our driver’s license, the statue at the courthouse square, the word that sits atop signs and letterheads. But long before it was a place, Mahaska was a man — and not just any man. He […]

SIDEBAR: Legal Boundaries in Question Following School Board Comments

US Supreme Court Building

OSKALOOSA, Iowa — The June 10 Oskaloosa School Board meeting not only resulted in the appointment of Sharma Parlett to a vacant seat but also ignited concerns about how public boards interact with their constituents, particularly regarding free speech, transparency, and the use of power. During the meeting, a warning was issued at the start […]

Parlett Appointed to Oskaloosa School Board as Public Rallies Behind Superintendent Fisher; Board President Issues Warning to Critics

Sharma Parlett was appointed to the Oskaloosa Community School District Board of Directors Tuesday night in a 4-2 vote.

OSKALOOSA, Iowa — Sharma Parlett was appointed to the Oskaloosa Community School District Board of Directors Tuesday night in a 4-2 vote, following a public meeting marked by passionate support for Superintendent Mike Fisher and pointed remarks from board leadership that raised legal and ethical concerns. Parlett was one of six applicants for the vacancy […]

Mahaska County Supervisors Address Economic Development, Infrastructure, and Technology Upgrades

Mahaska County Courthouse

OSKALOOSA — The Mahaska County Board of Supervisors convened for its regular meeting on Monday, June 2, 2025, with a full agenda that reflected an ongoing commitment to improving public infrastructure, enhancing administrative tools, and supporting economic development across the county. The meeting opened with standard procedural actions, including approval of the agenda, minutes from […]

Oskaloosa City Council Appoints New Member, Advances Major Infrastructure Projects

Oskaloosa City Hall

OSKALOOSA, Iowa — The Oskaloosa City Council convened on June 3, 2025, for its regular meeting, during which key infrastructure items and a significant council appointment were addressed. Following the recent resignation of Charlie Comfort, the council voted to appoint Andy Holmberg to fill the at-large vacancy. Holmberg was selected from a field of interested […]

County Update: Southeast Connector Project, Roads, and Law Enforcement in Focus

Proposed SE Connector

Mahaska County Supervisor Mark Groenendyk recently sat down with Oskaloosa News to provide an update on county operations following the adoption of the upcoming fiscal year’s budget. With litigation-related expenses no longer burdening the county, Groenendyk confirmed that the county’s tax asking has been reduced by approximately $500,000. A key focus moving forward is infrastructure, […]

Expanding Access to Rural Healthcare: A Deep Dive into Mahaska Health’s New Sharon Clinic

The Mahaska Health New Sharon Clinic, located at 112 South Main Street, provides area residents with convenient access to same-day appointments, family medicine, physicals, and more—delivered by a dedicated care team from Mahaska Health.

In the heart of northern Mahaska County, the Mahaska Health New Sharon Medical Center stands as a critical link in the region’s healthcare network. Located at 112 South Main Street, the clinic is more than just a family medicine practice—it’s a vital resource for rural residents seeking comprehensive, timely, and connected care without having to […]

           

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