A new report highlights possible links between environmental exposures and rising cancer rates in Iowa. Researchers and public health experts are calling for stronger protections, better monitoring, and coordinated action to address risks tied to pesticides, nitrates, PFAS, and radon.
Vendor applications are now open for the 39th Annual Sweet Corn Serenade, set for July 23 in downtown Oskaloosa. The popular summer festival will feature live music, food vendors, family activities, and thousands of visitors on the town square.
A Taylor Swift tribute concert is coming to Bridge View Center in Ottumwa on July 25. Taylorville: An Unofficial Live Tribute will feature era-inspired costumes, video visuals, and a full live band as fans enjoy a night of hit songs and pop concert energy.
Mahaska County Conservation has announced a lineup of upcoming spring programs for all ages, including nature education sessions, children’s activities, fossil hunting, and community gatherings. Events will take place at the Environmental Learning Center and Russell Wildlife Area throughout late March and April.
A bill increasing taxes on health maintenance organizations to help cover a projected Medicaid budget shortfall has passed the Iowa Senate and now heads to Gov. Kim Reynolds. Supporters say the move is needed to secure federal funding, while opponents warn the change could lead to higher insurance premiums for Iowans.
The Iowa State League saw dramatic games, controversies, and tragedy during a turbulent month of June in its early history. From extra-inning battles and early night game experiments to umpire disputes and the death of Burlington catcher Herbert Whitney, the league’s instability often matched the intensity on the field.
Oskaloosa High School students are bringing the comedy The Mouse That Roared to the George Daily Community Auditorium with performances March 27 and March 28. The production highlights months of teamwork, set building, rehearsals, and leadership as students work together to bring the story of an underdog nation to life on stage.
Residents are invited to share ideas about the future of downtown Oskaloosa during a Community Input Session on March 30 at Bridget’s Public House. The meeting will include results from a recent community survey and discussions about housing, business growth, events, and other priorities for the coming years.
The Iowa House has approved two measures aimed at limiting foreign involvement in ballot issue campaigns and restricting ownership of health care facilities by certain foreign entities. The bills now move forward in the legislative process after receiving unanimous support in the House.
by Cami Koons, Iowa Capital Dispatch March 20, 2026 Farmers and those living in rural parts of the country are affected by mental health issues, and statistically, die by suicide at higher rates than other segments of the population. The volatile nature of farming, as well as a lack of mental health care available in […]
