https://iowa-news.com Just The News Iowa delivers timely coverage of Iowa politics, local government, business, community affairs, education, and public policy. Dedicated to factual reporting and balanced journalism, the publication keeps readers informed about the issues, decisions, and events shaping Iowa and its communities. en Thu, 03 Sep 2026 05:51:50 GMT Hannibal Media Platform © 2026 Just The News Iowa 60 https://iowa-news.com/article/pentagon-ordered-troops-to-stop-calling-iran-conflict-operation-epic-fury https://iowa-news.com/article/pentagon-ordered-troops-to-stop-calling-iran-conflict-operation-epic-fury The Pentagon quietly ordered military personnel to stop calling ongoing U.S. operations against Iran “Operation Epic Fury,” months after the Trump administration declared the operation over. The directive raises questions about casualty classifications and transparency. Politics John Damon Thu, 03 Sep 2026 04:01:03 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/kate-martin-signs-with-chicago-sky-iowa-star-returns-closer-to-home https://iowa-news.com/article/kate-martin-signs-with-chicago-sky-iowa-star-returns-closer-to-home Former Iowa Hawkeyes star Kate Martin signs with the Chicago Sky on a developmental contract, bringing her closer to home and giving her another shot at the WNBA level. Sports John Damon Thu, 03 Sep 2026 03:01:05 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/travis-kelces-car-wash-investment-hit-with-dollar2-million-bonus-lawsuit https://iowa-news.com/article/travis-kelces-car-wash-investment-hit-with-dollar2-million-bonus-lawsuit Travis Kelce's Club Car Wash investment faces a proposed class-action lawsuit over unpaid employee bonuses. A former worker claims the company paid only 25% of promised bonuses, seeking more than $2 million in damages. Business John Damon Thu, 03 Sep 2026 02:01:23 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-no-touch-phone-law-what-drivers-need-to-know-in-2026 https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-no-touch-phone-law-what-drivers-need-to-know-in-2026 Iowa's hands-free driving law bans holding your phone behind the wheel. Learn the penalties, exceptions, and how to stay compliant in 2026. Politics John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 21:01:06 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/gopher-football-predictions-2026-iowa-hawkeyes-showdown-looms-as-key-test-for-minnesota https://iowa-news.com/article/gopher-football-predictions-2026-iowa-hawkeyes-showdown-looms-as-key-test-for-minnesota Minnesota's 2026 football predictions show the Gophers at just 43% confidence against Iowa, making the Week 8 rivalry clash a pivotal test for both teams. Sports John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 20:01:19 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/new-poll-shows-texas-governor-race-tightening-abbott-leads-hinojosa-by-just-1-point https://iowa-news.com/article/new-poll-shows-texas-governor-race-tightening-abbott-leads-hinojosa-by-just-1-point A new poll shows Texas Governor Greg Abbott leading Democratic challenger Gina Hinojosa by just 1 point, raising questions about Republican strength in the Lone Star State. Politics John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 19:01:36 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/huskies-look-to-rebound-in-2026-with-strong-core-big-ten-battles-ahead https://iowa-news.com/article/huskies-look-to-rebound-in-2026-with-strong-core-big-ten-battles-ahead Washington Huskies look to rebound in 2026 with quarterback Demond Williams, a veteran offensive line, and a defense full of playmakers. A Halloween showdown at Nebraska could be a primetime test. Sports John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 18:03:06 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/big-ten-week-1-can-iowa-start-strong-and-what-about-wisconsins-tough-test-against-notre-dame https://iowa-news.com/article/big-ten-week-1-can-iowa-start-strong-and-what-about-wisconsins-tough-test-against-notre-dame Iowa looks to dominate Northern Illinois while Wisconsin faces a tough test at Notre Dame. Full Big Ten Week 1 predictions and analysis. Sports John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 17:03:01 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/caseys-general-stores-iowas-gas-station-pizza-giant-takes-on-dominos https://iowa-news.com/article/caseys-general-stores-iowas-gas-station-pizza-giant-takes-on-dominos Iowa-based Casey's General Stores has become the fifth-largest pizza chain in America, beating Domino's in sales growth and winning over customers with scratch-made pies and small-town charm. Business John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 16:01:30 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/uscs-empty-seats-raise-questions-as-lincoln-riley-defends-trojans-attendance https://iowa-news.com/article/uscs-empty-seats-raise-questions-as-lincoln-riley-defends-trojans-attendance USC coach Lincoln Riley dismisses attendance concerns, but empty Coliseum seats and declining numbers raise questions as the Trojans face a critical 2026 home slate. Sports John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:01:46 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/week-one-college-football-hawkeyes-face-tough-spread-plus-our-best-bets-for-iowa-fans https://iowa-news.com/article/week-one-college-football-hawkeyes-face-tough-spread-plus-our-best-bets-for-iowa-fans Week one college football brings big spreads and big questions for Iowa fans. Here are the best bets, including a look at the Hawkeyes' matchup against Northern Illinois. Sports John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 14:01:14 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/caitlin-clark-says-shes-the-best-shes-ever-felt-as-fever-star-hits-stride https://iowa-news.com/article/caitlin-clark-says-shes-the-best-shes-ever-felt-as-fever-star-hits-stride Former Iowa Hawkeye Caitlin Clark says she feels 'the best' she ever has in her WNBA career, posting career-high numbers for the Indiana Fever after battling injuries. Sports John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 13:01:50 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-bred-running-back-kaleb-johnson-returns-home-to-bolster-packers-shaken-backfield https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-bred-running-back-kaleb-johnson-returns-home-to-bolster-packers-shaken-backfield The Packers acquired Iowa standout Kaleb Johnson to help fill the void left by Josh Jacobs, while also adding two new tight ends just days before the season opener. Sports John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 12:02:15 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/gop-skips-dallas-convention-as-iowa-republicans-focus-on-local-races https://iowa-news.com/article/gop-skips-dallas-convention-as-iowa-republicans-focus-on-local-races Republicans are skipping the Dallas convention in droves, prioritizing district work over the national spectacle. What does this mean for Iowa voters? Politics John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 09:01:40 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/can-iowas-favorite-underdogs-crash-the-college-football-playoff-in-2026 https://iowa-news.com/article/can-iowas-favorite-underdogs-crash-the-college-football-playoff-in-2026 The 12-team College Football Playoff guarantees a spot for a non-power conference team every year. Here are the four best bets to crash the party in 2026. Sports John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 08:07:12 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/big-ten-football-2026-full-win-projections-top-storylines-and-iowa-hawkeyes-outlook https://iowa-news.com/article/big-ten-football-2026-full-win-projections-top-storylines-and-iowa-hawkeyes-outlook The 2026 Big Ten football season is nearly here. From the national title race to the Heisman Trophy, here is a full breakdown of how every Big Ten team will fare this fall, including a detailed look at the Iowa Hawkeyes. Sports John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 07:02:39 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/lincoln-riley-fires-back-at-critics-over-usc-crowd-but-iowa-fans-know-the-real-story https://iowa-news.com/article/lincoln-riley-fires-back-at-critics-over-usc-crowd-but-iowa-fans-know-the-real-story USC coach Lincoln Riley dismisses criticism over sparse season-opening crowd, but Iowa fans see a familiar contrast in dedication. Heat, schedule, and social media fuel the debate. Sports John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 04:01:11 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/south-bend-cubs-power-past-cedar-rapids-as-iowa-farm-teams-shine-in-final-stretch https://iowa-news.com/article/south-bend-cubs-power-past-cedar-rapids-as-iowa-farm-teams-shine-in-final-stretch Angel Cepeda homered twice as South Bend beat Cedar Rapids 8-4. Iowa Cubs, Knoxville, and Myrtle Beach also saw key performances and roster moves in the final stretch. Sports John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 03:00:51 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/from-housekeeper-to-casino-president-iowa-trained-executive-leads-hard-rock-resort https://iowa-news.com/article/from-housekeeper-to-casino-president-iowa-trained-executive-leads-hard-rock-resort Allie Evangelista went from housekeeping to casino president, with career stops in Iowa along the way. Her story shows how hospitality skills transfer across industries. Business John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 02:01:29 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/rollins-importing-beef-is-a-gut-punch-to-ranchers-but-a-wake-up-call-for-us-food-independence https://iowa-news.com/article/rollins-importing-beef-is-a-gut-punch-to-ranchers-but-a-wake-up-call-for-us-food-independence U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins says the Trump administration's temporary tariff suspension on imported ground beef is a wake-up call for American food independence. Speaking at the Farm Progress Show in Boone, she defended the consumer-first decision while unveiling the 'Ranchers First Initiative' to rebuild the nation's beef herd. Politics John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 01:01:38 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/doj-sues-kansas-city-schools-over-transgender-policies-parental-rights https://iowa-news.com/article/doj-sues-kansas-city-schools-over-transgender-policies-parental-rights The Justice Department's first FERPA-based lawsuit over transgender policies targets a Kansas school district, raising questions about parental rights that Iowa already addresses by law. Politics John Damon Wed, 02 Sep 2026 00:01:48 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-land-at-no-8-in-big-ten-power-rankings-as-qb-question-looms https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-land-at-no-8-in-big-ten-power-rankings-as-qb-question-looms The Iowa Hawkeyes open the 2026 season ranked No. 8 in the Big Ten, with quarterback uncertainty and receiver depth concerns holding them back in the early power rankings. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 23:01:46 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-ben-kueter-ranked-no-2-heavyweight-as-ncaa-preseason-wrestling-rankings-drop https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-ben-kueter-ranked-no-2-heavyweight-as-ncaa-preseason-wrestling-rankings-drop The 2026-27 NCAA wrestling preseason rankings are out, and Iowa's Ben Kueter is ranked No. 2 at heavyweight. Here's what the rankings mean for the Hawkeyes and Iowa wrestling fans. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 22:01:02 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-kaden-wetjen-shines-in-nfl-preseason-as-steelers-steal https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-kaden-wetjen-shines-in-nfl-preseason-as-steelers-steal Iowa's Kaden Wetjen dazzled in the NFL preseason with a 74-yard touchdown and a 45-yard punt return, proving the Steelers' fourth-round pick was a smart investment. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 21:01:15 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/college-football-2026-how-iowa-fans-can-watch-every-game-this-season https://iowa-news.com/article/college-football-2026-how-iowa-fans-can-watch-every-game-this-season The 2026 college football season is here. Iowa fans can watch every Hawkeyes and Cyclones game with DIRECTV's MySports Genre Pack, which bundles all the essential channels. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 20:01:27 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/usda-turns-to-satellites-and-ai-to-fix-crop-estimates-after-farmer-backlash https://iowa-news.com/article/usda-turns-to-satellites-and-ai-to-fix-crop-estimates-after-farmer-backlash USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins announced a new pilot project using satellite imagery and AI to improve crop estimates, responding to farmer criticism over unreliable data that has shaken Iowa's farm economy. Business John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 19:01:48 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/ftc-sues-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharges-iowa-joins-22-state-lawsuit https://iowa-news.com/article/ftc-sues-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharges-iowa-joins-22-state-lawsuit The FTC and 22 states, including Iowa, are suing Amazon over alleged secret ad auction manipulation that extracted over $20 billion from advertisers since 2019. Business John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 18:03:04 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-football-2026-how-to-watch-hawkeyes-cyclones-and-every-week-1-game https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-football-2026-how-to-watch-hawkeyes-cyclones-and-every-week-1-game Iowa football 2026 kicks off August 27. Here's how to watch the Hawkeyes, Cyclones, and every Week 1 game, plus streaming options for cord-cutters. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 17:02:43 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-football-fans-how-to-watch-eastern-illinois-vs-minnesota-thursday-night https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-football-fans-how-to-watch-eastern-illinois-vs-minnesota-thursday-night Iowa football fans can catch Eastern Illinois vs Minnesota Thursday night on NBCSN and Peacock. Get the full preview, kickoff time, and streaming details here. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 16:01:08 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/pen-america-report-political-attacks-push-public-libraries-to-breaking-point https://iowa-news.com/article/pen-america-report-political-attacks-push-public-libraries-to-breaking-point A new PEN America report reveals public libraries are at a 'breaking point' amid censorship battles, worker harassment, and defunding threats, with Iowa among the most affected states. Politics John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 15:01:46 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-state-faces-rebuild-as-eclectic-big-12-season-kicks-off https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-state-faces-rebuild-as-eclectic-big-12-season-kicks-off Iowa State faces a rebuild after Matt Campbell's departure, while Texas Tech, BYU, Oklahoma State and Houston battle for Big 12 supremacy in a wide-open conference season. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 14:01:42 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/wnba-star-sophie-cunningham-credits-iowas-caitlin-clark-paige-bueckers-for-leagues-boom https://iowa-news.com/article/wnba-star-sophie-cunningham-credits-iowas-caitlin-clark-paige-bueckers-for-leagues-boom Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham credits Iowa's Caitlin Clark and other young stars for the WNBA's record growth, urging veterans to embrace the new era. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 13:01:43 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/louisvilles-iowa-bred-safety-koen-entringer-brings-big-ten-grit-to-cardinals-defense https://iowa-news.com/article/louisvilles-iowa-bred-safety-koen-entringer-brings-big-ten-grit-to-cardinals-defense Koen Entringer, a 13-game starter for Iowa's top-ranked defense, transfers to Louisville for his final season. Here's what his move means for both teams. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 12:02:13 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/gopher-football-2026-realistic-bowl-projections-and-what-success-looks-like https://iowa-news.com/article/gopher-football-2026-realistic-bowl-projections-and-what-success-looks-like Minnesota football enters 2026 with real bowl aspirations. Here's what the Gophers can actually achieve this season and which bowl games are within reach. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 09:01:21 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-projected-to-hold-steady-at-no-21-in-next-coaches-poll https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-projected-to-hold-steady-at-no-21-in-next-coaches-poll The Iowa Hawkeyes are projected to move up one spot to No. 21 in the next Coaches Poll after a Week 1 win over Northern Illinois. Here's the full projected top 25. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 08:05:06 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/could-the-2027-nfl-draft-produce-a-record-7-first-round-quarterbacks-iowa-fans-should-pay-attention https://iowa-news.com/article/could-the-2027-nfl-draft-produce-a-record-7-first-round-quarterbacks-iowa-fans-should-pay-attention The 2027 NFL Draft class could break the record for most quarterbacks taken in Round 1. Iowa fans will see two top prospects this season in Ohio State's Julian Sayin and Minnesota's Drake Lindsey. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 07:28:46 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/presbyterian-womens-wrestling-ready-to-battle-for-ncaa-trophy-spot https://iowa-news.com/article/presbyterian-womens-wrestling-ready-to-battle-for-ncaa-trophy-spot Presbyterian College women's wrestling returns eight All-Americans and nine NCAA qualifiers, positioning the Blue Hose for another top-five finish and a possible trophy run in 2026-27. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 04:01:08 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/nascars-2026-chase-16-drivers-10-races-one-champion https://iowa-news.com/article/nascars-2026-chase-16-drivers-10-races-one-champion Denny Hamlin leads a tightly packed 16-driver field into NASCAR's 2026 Chase, where 10 races and 100 points separate the champion from the rest. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 03:01:19 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-week-1-depth-chart-key-takeaways-ahead-of-niu-opener https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-hawkeyes-week-1-depth-chart-key-takeaways-ahead-of-niu-opener Iowa's Week 1 depth chart reveals an undecided quarterback battle, a surprise at kicker, and key roles for transfers. Here's what to watch against NIU. Sports John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 02:01:23 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-parkcraft-company-made-these-vintage-salt-and-pepper-shakers-worth-big-money https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-parkcraft-company-made-these-vintage-salt-and-pepper-shakers-worth-big-money Vintage salt and pepper shakers can be valuable finds. Iowa's Parkcraft Company made one of the most sought-after sets. Here are six styles worth hunting for at thrift stores. Arts and Entertainment John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 01:01:45 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/banks-only-10-house-democrats-signed-basic-american-values-pledge https://iowa-news.com/article/banks-only-10-house-democrats-signed-basic-american-values-pledge Sen. Jim Banks warns that only 10 House Democrats signed a basic values pledge, proving the party has been hijacked by socialists. He calls on Iowans to elect Ashley Hinson and keep the Republican majority. Politics John Damon Tue, 01 Sep 2026 00:02:03 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/penn-state-footballs-iowa-state-connection-what-40-transfers-mean-for-2026 https://iowa-news.com/article/penn-state-footballs-iowa-state-connection-what-40-transfers-mean-for-2026 Penn State's 2026 roster features 24 transfers from Iowa State, giving Iowa football fans a familiar connection to Happy Valley. Here's what to know. Sports John Damon Mon, 31 Aug 2026 23:01:25 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/denny-hamlins-best-shot-at-nascar-cup-championship-why-jgr-insider-says-its-his-to-lose https://iowa-news.com/article/denny-hamlins-best-shot-at-nascar-cup-championship-why-jgr-insider-says-its-his-to-lose Denny Hamlin enters the NASCAR Chase as the No. 1 seed with no road courses on the playoff schedule. Insiders say this is his championship to lose. Sports John Damon Mon, 31 Aug 2026 22:01:13 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-grunkemeyer-among-qbs-poised-for-breakout-mendoza-leap-in-college-football https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-grunkemeyer-among-qbs-poised-for-breakout-mendoza-leap-in-college-football Virginia Tech quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer, who faced Iowa in his first career start, is among the top candidates to make a dramatic improvement this season, following the path of Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza. Sports John Damon Mon, 31 Aug 2026 21:01:04 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/cyclospora-cases-top-17000-as-feds-cut-parasite-research https://iowa-news.com/article/cyclospora-cases-top-17000-as-feds-cut-parasite-research Confirmed cyclospora infections top 17,000 as federal research cuts raise concerns, with Iowa set to host a relocated USDA project. Health John Damon Mon, 31 Aug 2026 20:01:17 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/whittingham-embraces-michigan-challenge-names-favorite-ann-arbor-restaurant https://iowa-news.com/article/whittingham-embraces-michigan-challenge-names-favorite-ann-arbor-restaurant Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham is settling into Ann Arbor, embracing a brutal Big Ten schedule, and bringing his analytics-driven approach to the Wolverines as they open the 2026 season against Western Michigan. Sports John Damon Mon, 31 Aug 2026 19:01:42 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/penn-state-transfer-ethan-grunkemeyer-named-virginia-tech-starting-qb https://iowa-news.com/article/penn-state-transfer-ethan-grunkemeyer-named-virginia-tech-starting-qb Virginia Tech coach James Franklin has named Penn State transfer Ethan Grunkemeyer the Hokies' starting quarterback, citing his experience, mobility and leadership as key factors in the decision. Sports John Damon Mon, 31 Aug 2026 18:02:47 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-snap-restrictions-blocked-by-court-but-other-states-push-junk-food-bans https://iowa-news.com/article/iowa-snap-restrictions-blocked-by-court-but-other-states-push-junk-food-bans A federal court blocked Iowa's SNAP junk food waiver, but other states are moving forward with restrictions on sugary drinks and candy. Here's what Iowa families need to know. Politics John Damon Mon, 31 Aug 2026 17:02:32 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-own-bridges-of-madison-county-topped-the-1990s-bestseller-charts https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-own-bridges-of-madison-county-topped-the-1990s-bestseller-charts Robert James Waller's Iowa-set novel topped the 1993 charts, but John Grisham's six-year reign defined the decade. Arts and Entertainment John Damon Mon, 31 Aug 2026 16:01:09 GMT https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-caitlin-clark-heads-to-world-cup-as-wnba-break-reshapes-playoff-race https://iowa-news.com/article/iowas-caitlin-clark-heads-to-world-cup-as-wnba-break-reshapes-playoff-race The WNBA's FIBA World Cup break gives Caitlin Clark's Fever teammates a chance to rest and build chemistry for the playoff push, while Iowa fans watch Clark represent Team USA in Germany. Sports John Damon Mon, 31 Aug 2026 15:01:58 GMT