Rising Oil Prices Are Affecting Iowa Farmers
(Iowa) — Rising oil prices being driven by the war in Iran are presenting a economic mixed bag for farmers. Iowa State University agricultural economist Chad Hart says rising oil prices tend to drive up corn and soybean prices to meet demand for fuel alternatives like ethanol and bio-diesel. That could help offset some of the increase in oil prices for farmers. Hart says it’s unclear how long prices will continue going up.
Iowa Subcommittee Stalls Bill Banning DEI Offices At Private Universities
(Iowa) — A Iowa subcommittee has decided not to advance a bill that would ban diversity, equity, and inclusion offices at private universities in Iowa. House File 2488 had already passed the House is stalling in the Senate. Supporters argue private institutions should not receive taxpayer funding if they promote DEI practices. Opponents say the measure could lead to broader state oversight of any school that accepts public money, including independent colleges. The subcommittee decided not to advance the bill during a meeting today.
Ames Man Accused Of Killing Sister, 1-Year-Old Nephew In Ames Stabbing, Victims Identified
(Ames, IA) — An Iowa man is accused of killing his sister and her child in Ames on Friday. Police say 26-year-old Markasia McCuddin and one-year-old Liam Sanders-McCuddin died after police responded to reports of a stabbing Friday evening. Officers found both victims at the scene suffering from stab wounds. While police and medics attempted life-saving treatment, both victims were later pronounced dead. Police arrested Markasia McCuddin’s brother, 27 year-old Davontrez McCuddin of Fort Dodge, who’s been charged with two counts of first-degree murder.
Iowa State Patrol Vehicle Destroyed in Blizzard Crash
(Jaspar County, IA) — An Iowa State Patrol vehicle was destroyed Sunday night after being struck by a semi during blizzard conditions in Jasper County. According to officials, the trooper had stepped out of his patrol vehicle to assist with a crash involving several semitrucks along the interstate. While he was outside the vehicle, another semi driver lost control and crashed into the parked patrol SUV. No injuries were reported. The State Patrol responded to almost 400 calls for service during the blizzard on Sunday.
Sioux City Businessman Called to Testify in Epstein Investigation
(Washington D.C.) — A former businessman from Sioux City is set to testify as part of the congressional investigation into Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Ted Waitt, co-founder of Gateway Computer Company, has been called to appear before the U.S. House Oversight Committee in Washington D.C.on April 16. According to a letter sent to Waitt, lawmakers believe he may have information relevant to the committee’s ongoing investigation. Waitt is not facing any charges and is being called strictly as a witness.
