Stories written by Staff Writer with AI Assist

Health providers say recognizing the warning signs and risk factors of heart disease can help save lives. Understanding differences in symptoms between men and women, knowing personal risk, and seeking early medical care are key steps in preventing heart emergencies.

OSKALOOSA — While screenings are critical, cardiology providers say everyday habits have an even greater long-term impact on heart health. Exercise, diet, sleep, stress management, and avoiding tobacco remain the foundation of prevention. Regular activity strengthens the heart and improves circulation. A common goal is at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise five days a […]

OSKALOOSA — February is American Heart Month, and cardiology providers at Mahaska Health are urging residents to treat it as a wake-up call. Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the United States, and providers say many of those deaths are preventable with early screening and healthier daily habits. Heart Month […]

Mahaska County, Iowa – Dry grass and strong winds are creating dangerous fire conditions across Iowa as spring begins. Fire officials say this time of year is one of the easiest times for outdoor fires to get out of control, even when no burn ban is in place. The Iowa State Fire Marshal warns that […]
Feb 17 2026 | Posted in
Local News |
Read More »

A recent wave of online comments from Oskaloosa residents called for more stores, restaurants, youth activities, and better downtown parking. Many people said they want cheaper places to eat, more clothing options, and more reasons to stay in town instead of driving elsewhere. The frustration is clear. But the conversation also shows a gap in […]
Feb 17 2026 | Posted in
Local News |
Read More »

The Oskaloosa freshman boys basketball team closed its season last night with a hard-fought win at Burlington, ending the year on a high note after months of steady improvement. The season began back in November with a strong opening victory at Fairfield, setting the tone for a group that continued to battle through a long […]

by Cami Koons, Iowa Capital Dispatch February 16, 2026 Iowa lawmakers advanced two bills from House subcommittees Monday that would restrict the commercial operation of self-driving vehicles and assign liability to the owners of autonomous vehicles. The bills were opposed by automotive industry representatives who argued the legislation would prohibit situations like an automated car […]
Feb 17 2026 | Posted in
State News |
Read More »

The Oskaloosa boys wrestling team competed Saturday at the Class 3A District 8 tournament in Norwalk and came away with three state qualifiers. Colton Shaffer, Matthew Phillips, and Parker Jordan all earned spots in the State Wrestling Tournament, which begins at 4 p.m. Wednesday for Class 3A. The tournament decided who moves on to state […]

FireHouse brought their classic hard rock sound to Riverside Casino earlier this year, showing fans they still have the energy and passion that made them famous in the 1990s. With new lead singer Nate Peck stepping in after the loss of founding vocalist C.J. Snare, the band delivered a performance that blended nostalgia with fresh life. Here is a brief look at the band’s history, their recent Iowa show, and how fans can find upcoming concerts at Riverside Casino.
Feb 16 2026 | Posted in
Music and Arts |
Read More »

The Oskaloosa girls bowling team competed Monday at the district state qualifying meet at Plaza Bowl in Clinton, bowling both the team event in the morning and the individual event in the afternoon. The Indians stayed competitive all day and had one bowler advance to the state tournament. In the team competition, Oskaloosa finished in […]