What We’re Talking About

Get ready for another blast of winter.  The National Weather Service has all the details…

Accumulating Snow

• What: Wet snow accumulations of 2 to 6″, with locally higher amounts possible across central Wisconsin
• Where: Highest amounts for central Wisconsin with lower amounts extending west of the Mississippi River
• Timing: This afternoon through Wednesday morning 
• Impacts: Roads will become slushy or snow covered and slippery, especially along colder ridge tops, within periods of heavier snow, and overnight. Reduced visibilities at times. Commute may be impacted. Some blowing and drifting possible, especially while snow is falling
• ACTION: Anticipate slippery travel and reduced visibility, slow down and allow extra time to reach your destination

Gusty Winds

• What: Strong northerly winds
• Where: Areawide
• Timing: North winds gusting 35 to 50 mph late tonight and Wednesday
• Impacts: Travel will be difficult at times, especially for high profile vehicles. Highest impacts in rural areas. Localized power outages and tree damage possible. 
• ACTION: Be prepared for travel impacts. Slow down

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 4:00 PM this afternoon to 7 AM Wednesday for parts of Southwest Wisconsin, including Vernon County.

Caledonia, Minnesota native Abby Blake, who had an impressive performance on American Idol last night has exited the reality show.  Jugde Katy Perry did say after the performance, “But I think it was a step up from your audition, ” still it wasn’t enough to continue on.  Abby was one of 80 performers that didn’t make the cut.  Check out Abby’s performance of Billy Joel’s “Vienna” below.

Photo Credit:  TALENTKINGHD via YouTube

Spring and summer around these parts means road construction.  Some highways you travel everyday might be impacted by some work soon.  Check out the latest from the Iowa Department of Transportation.

-NEW HAMPTON, Iowa – March 19, 2024 – If you drive on U.S. 18 and Iowa 51 in Postville you need to be aware of an upcoming asphalt paving and resurfacing project that may impact your trip.

Beginning on Monday, April 1, until mid-November, weather permitting, crews will need to shift traffic in a head-to-head traffic pattern on one side of the road in some sections of the work zone.  Flaggers will assist you through the work area when paving and related work is underway.

Part of this project includes updating sidewalks to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. To get this work done, we’ll need to close some of the side roads in the area from time to time.

-NEW HAMPTON, Iowa – March 21, 2024 – If you drive on Iowa 56 between West Union and Elkader in Fayette and Clayton counties you need to be aware of an upcoming asphalt resurfacing project that may impact your trip.

Beginning on Wednesday, April 3, until late July, weather permitting, crews will need to intermittently close one lane so resurfacing work can take place. Flaggers and pilot cars will assist you through the work zone to keep traffic moving.

NEW HAMPTON, Iowa – March 29, 2024 – If you drive on the Iowa 150 bridge, 0.2 miles north of Iowa 93, you need to be aware of an upcoming project that may impact your trip.

Beginning on Monday, April 8 until late July, weather permitting, crews will close one lane of the bridge so bridge deck overlay work can be done. Both lanes will be worked on in separate stages according to the Iowa DOT’s New Hampton construction office.

Temporary traffic signals will be in place to help direct you through the work zone. Lane-width restriction signs will be in place in advance of the work zone to direct larger vehicles to alternate routes.

-NEW HAMPTON, Iowa – March 21, 2024 – If you drive on Iowa 150 from West Union to the Fayette/Winneshiek County line you need to be aware of an upcoming asphalt resurfacing project that may impact your trip.

Beginning on Monday, April 15, until early July, weather permitting, crews will need to intermittently close one lane so resurfacing work can take place. Flaggers and pilot cars will assist you through the work zone to keep traffic moving.

Help keep everyone on the road safer. Drive with caution, obey the posted speed limit and other signs in the work area, and be aware that traffic fines for moving violations are at least double in work zones. As in all work zones, you should stay alert, allow ample space between vehicles, and wear seat belts.

The latest traveler information is available anytime through our 511 system. Visit 511ia.org; call 511 (within Iowa) or 800-288-1047 (nationwide); stay connected with 511 on Facebook or Twitter (find links at https://iowadot.gov/511/511-social-media-sites); or download the free app to your mobile device.

Photo Credit:  Iowa DOT

NEW HAMPTON, Iowa – March 26, 2024 – If you drive on Iowa 76 to reach McGregor you will need to be aware of road closures on Iowa that begin on Monday, April 1, until mid-October, weather permitting, according to the Iowa DOT’s New Hampton construction office.

Crews will resume reconstruction work on Iowa 76 for this two-year project. You will follow detour signs on U.S. 18 and Iowa 76 to reach McGregor. Signs will be installed throughout McGregor to help direct you to businesses and parking.

Help keep everyone on the road safer. Drive with caution, obey the posted speed limit and other signs in the work area, and be aware that traffic fines for moving violations are at least double in work zones. As in all work zones, you should stay alert, allow ample space between vehicles, and wear seat belts.

The latest traveler information is available anytime through our 511 system. Visit 511ia.org; call 511 (within Iowa) or 800-288-1047 (nationwide); stay connected with 511 on Facebook or Twitter (find links at https://iowadot.gov/511/511-social-media-sites); or download the free app to your mobile device.

It’s easy to subscribe to Your 511 and sign up to receive email/text alerts. Visit https://new.511ia.org/#login to sign up. For instructions and help with this feature, visit https://www.511ia.org/help/section/how-to-create-and-manage-a-511-account.html.

Kevin Bacon has announced that he will return to Payson High School in Utah, where he shot the film Footloose over 40 years ago. Students at the school campaigned on social media (#BaconToPayson) to get Bacon to attend their prom. Their efforts, including TikTok videos and recreating scenes from the movie, caught Bacon’s attention, and he expressed his admiration for their work. “I have been so impressed with everything that’s been going on there with this crazy idea to get me to come back,” he said in a video to the students. This year marks the 40th anniversary of Footloose, making Bacon’s visit even more special. The school is also relocating after this academic year, making it the last chance for Bacon to attend prom at the same location where the film was shot.

Students at Payson High School, where “Footloose” was filmed, are on an all-out mission to have star Kevin Bacon attend their prom.

In a TODAY exclusive, @KayleeHartung reports on their viral campaign — and @kevinbacon‘s responds live! pic.twitter.com/03iduiYDUB

— TODAY (@TODAYshow) March 22, 2024

A winter storm will bring snow to the region late tonight into Friday morning. Amounts from 2 to 6″ are expected with locally higher totals possible. In addition, light icing could be realized for parts of northeast Iowa into southwest Wisconsin. Where the snow bands layout could still shift, and some refinement to how much to expect, and where, is possible as we move into tonight.

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for Fillmore, Houston, La Crosse, and Monroe counties from 10 PM this evening to 10 AM Friday. Snow with accumulations of 2 to 4 inches are possible in the counties listed.

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for Allamakee, Fayette, Clayton, Vernon, Crawford, and Grant counties from 1:00 AM to 1:00 PM Friday. Snow to a wintry mix. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches and ice accumulations of a light glaze. in the counties listed.

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for Howard, Winneshiek, and Chickasaw counties from 1:00 AM to 10:00 AM Friday. Snow to a wintry mix. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches and ice accumulations of a light glaze. in the counties listed.

University of Iowa senior guard, Caitlin Clark earned First Team All-America Honors yesterday, she has earned First Team All-America honors in four consecutive seasons and is the first Iowa women’s basketball player to do so.  Yesterday Gatorade also began selling a Water Bottle and Towel combo that Caitlin helped design, it’s for sale on the Gatorade website.  Another thing popped up while on was on social media yesterday, a song about Caitlin Clark!  The song is titled, “B-Ball Wizard(The Caitlin Clark Song).  It’s a take on The Who’s classic “Pinball Wizard”.  The song was written and sung by Rob Merritt.

When someone writes a song about you, you know you’ve made it!

Photo Credit:  madreindeer via YouTube

Outdoor weddings can be unpredictable, the weather among other things can cause some issues.  How about a wedding crasher?  Well a cow crashed an outdoor wedding on a farm in the U.K. and its comedy timing with the “does anyone object” question was perfect….Twice!!

Now that the March Madness brackets have been revealed, let the betting begin! The American Gaming Association predicts that American adults will bet $2.72 billion on the 2024 NCAA men’s and women’s tournaments. To be clear, that’s the official number – and is only the “above board” money expected to be wagered. It doesn’t factor in the many billions of dollars that will exchange hands because of things like bracket contests and casual bets with friends. When ALL the money is considered, industry insiders believe more than $15 billion will be gambled before a champion is crowned.

The Iowa Women earned the No. 1 seed in the Albany Region.  They’ll face the winner of the Holy Cross and UT Martin game on Saturday, March 23rd in Iowa City at 2:00 PM.

The Iowa State Women earned the No. 7 seed in the Portland Region.  They’ll take on No. 10 Maryland in Stanford, California.  The game will be played Friday, March 22 at 6:30 PM

The Drake Lady Bulldogs will be the No. 12 seed and will tale on No. 5 Colorado in the Albany Region on Friday, March 22 at 6:00 PM in Manhattan, KS.

The Iowa State Men earned a No. 2 seed in the East Region and will face No. 15 seed South Dakota State on Thursday, March 21, in Omaha. Tipoff is set for 6:35 p.m. (CT) on Thursday, March 21st.

The Iowa Hawkeye Men  will host No. 4 seed Kansas State in the first round of the NIT on Tuesday, March 19th at 8 p.m. in  Carver-Hawkeye Arena.

MASON CITY, Iowa – March 15, 2024 – Traveling between Lansing, Iowa, and Crawford County, Wisconsin, will become a bit easier on Monday, March 18, 2024 with the implementation of a free water taxi. This service will be in place until repairs are made to the existing bridge connecting the two states.

The water taxi will travel between the Lansing Marina and Big Slough Landing and will be available seven days a week on the following schedule.

• 7 to 10 a.m.
• 11 to 1 p.m.
• 3 to 6 p.m.

A one-way trip is estimated to take about 30 minutes.  All riders will be required to get off the water taxi at each stop.

On the Iowa side, parking and a shuttle is available at the Lansing City Hall and  Middle/Kee High School in Lansing.

Lansing City Hall
201 John Street
Lansing, IA  52151

Middle/Kee High School
269 Center Street
Lansing, IA  52151

Travelers on the Wisconsin side will need to park at the DeSoto Community Center and take a shuttle to the water taxi. Parking is not allowed at Big Slough Landing.

De Soto Community Center
57 Crawford Street
De Soto, WI  54624

Contact: Pete Hjelmstad at pete.hjelmstad@iowadot.us or 641-430-9718

Traffic was rolling along just fine on I-5 in Santa Clarita, California until a truck wiped out and spilled hundreds of rolls of toilet paper all over the freeway.

The California Highway Patrol is trying to get to the bottom of what caused the TP to roll off the back of a Ford pickup truck. The mess clogged up traffic for about 20 minutes as highway patrol officers walked along the road and tossed rolls of toilet paper over a cement barrier. (CBS News)

Coming up in May, two local high school baseball teams are set to play a game at the home of the Minnesota Twins! The Kee Hawks of Eastern Allamakee, and the South Winneshiek Warriors will battle at Target Field in Minneapolis on Thursday, May 30th.  The Twins play the Royals at Noon, the high school will start approximately an hour after the conclusion of the Twins game.

For tickets, if you are a Kee Hawk fan, contact an 8th-12th grade baseball player to purchase. Tickets will also be available at the High School office. Checks payable to Kee High Athletic Booster Club.  Any questions on the event, you can contact Athletic Director  Danny Love; dlove@kee.k12.ia.us.

If you are a South Winneshiek Warrior fan, contact a 10th-12th grade baseball player to purchase. Pay in advance and tickets will be distributed every two weeks beginning in February. Checks payable to South Winn Athletic Booster Club.  You can contact Coach Alex Smith with any questions; alex.smith@swinn.k12.ia.us

Cost for the game, which includes the Twins game is $20.00.

A 14-karat gold Lego piece has sold for over $18,000 at auction. The Lego was originally donated to a Pennsylvania Goodwill along with a bag of jewelry. The piece is a small, Bionicle mask. The piece was initially listed for $14.95 online, but employees realized they had something special when potential buyers began to offer $1,000 for the Lego. Only 30 of the rare Kanohi Hau masks were made 23 years ago.

MASON CITY, Iowa – March 8, 2024 –Repairs are underway on the existing Mississippi River Bridge at Lansing, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation’s District 2 Office.

The bridge was closed on Feb. 25, 2024, after it was discovered that two of the bridge piers shifted, making the bridge unsafe for traffic.

During the repair process, portions of the bridge deck will be removed, leaving large gaps in the bridge surface. The bridge is not safe for pedestrian use and will be closed to all traffic during repairs.

The bridge will not reopen until it is safe for public use. The repairs are expected to be complete by late April.

Construction continues on the new bridge adjacent to the existing bridge.  Project completion is anticipated in 2026.

For more information go to the Mississippi River Bridge at Lansing website or Facebook page.

Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday: Although it’s the time change that everyone initially hates because we lose an hour of sleep Saturday night, it is immediately forgiven by most people who enjoy having an extra hour of daylight in the evening. But how much do you really know about Daylight Saving Time? Here are some interesting facts.

• It is “saving” and not “savings.”
• It is a myth that Daylight Saving Time was implemented to benefit farmers. It was actually implemented in 1918 with the Standard Time Act and was intended as a wartime measure during World War I to conserve energy resources.
• Longer daylight hours encourage outdoor activities, reduce energy consumption, and enhance overall well-being.
• Retailers traditionally see increased sales because of extended evening shopping hours.
• Arizona (with the exception of the Navajo Nation), and Hawaii do not participate in DST. Arizona participated once in 1967 and never again.
• Daylight stretching later into the evening is great, but the mornings will stay darker longer, making it harder to get out of bed.
• There has been a push in Congress to make Daylight Saving Time permanent, but so far it is has not happened.
• According to the National Institutes of Health, effects of changing our clocks could include strokes, heart attacks, accidents and changes in mood.

While many people don’t look forward to shots, one German man voluntarily received the Covid vaccine 217 times in 29 months. The man did so against recommendations “for private reasons”, and then allowed scientists to examine his blood samples. While scientists suspected so many vaccines could send the man’s body into “overdrive”, he appears to have suffered no negative side effects. The patient also shows no signs of having contracted Covid. However, scientists “do not endorse hyper vaccination as a strategy to enhance adaptive immunity.”  A correspondence published in the journal Lancet Infectious Diseases found the man’s “hypervaccination” did not significantly improve or worsen his immune response.

Here is a list of Easter Egg Hunts happening in our area!

-Community Breakfast & Easter Egg Hunt is is happening Saturday, March 30th from 8:00-10:00 AM at the Retreat Methodist Fellowship Hall(E3426 County Road N, De Soto). Easter Egg Hunt will start at 10.  Check out the Bake Sale Feat. Easter Cookies!

-Waukon Easter Egg Hun is happening Saturday, March 30 at the Waukon City Park.  Registration will begin @ 10:00 am and will be done as you drive in, then go to your area and unload. Remember to bring your baskets.  Ages 11 and under grouped as boys and girls 5-under, 6-8, & 9-11.  Hunt begins 10:30am.   Prizes include bikes and money. Bring your cameras as the Easter Bunny will be there.  Donations given from local businesses and area banks.  For more info, or would like to help or donate, call Linda at 563-794-1663.

-The Red Barn Campground and Restaurant in Lansing is hosting their 3rd Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 30th at 1:00 PM.  Get your picture taken with the Easter Bunny. Bring your basket and fill it up with some goodies! Hayrack Rides too!

-The 1st Annual Fort Atkinson Public Library Easter Egg Hunt is happening Saturday, March 30th at 10:00 AM at the Fort Atkinson Public Park.  Please bring your own basket, bucket or bag to carry off your eggs! This is a free event, but free will donations will be accepted.

-The 4-H Toppers Annual Easter Egg Hunt is set for Saturday, March 30th at 10:00 AM at the Waterville Community Center.  Please bring a non-perishable food item for the local food shelf.  In the case of inclement weather, the hunt will be held in the gymnasium.

-The Elkport-Garber EMS and Elkport Garber Community Club are hosting an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 30th at 1:00 PM at the Elkport City Park.  Prizes will be awarded and come meet the Easter Bunny.

-Community children are invited to join the Easter Egg hunt at Aase Haugen in Decorah on Monday, April 1! The hunt starts at the solarium facing Ohio Street at 10:45 a.m. Follow the fun signs around the building, stopping at Assisted Living and ending at the Main Entrance where children can go inside to the Egg Cracking Station and greet the residents in the main dining room.

-The Calmar/Springfield Luther League are hosting an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 30th at 9:00 AM at Riverside Park in Spillville.  Bring your own container/basket.  The Easter Bunny will be there for pictures.

-The Calmar Community Club is sponsoring an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 30th at 10:00 AM at the South Winneshiek High School Practice Fields in Calmar.  Over 2000 eggs!  Easter Bunny will be ready for pictures by 9:45 AM.

-The De Soto Public Library is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 30th at 9:30 AM.  A story will be read after the hunt.

Do have info on an Easter Egg Hunt happening this year??  Let us know!  E-mail erik@kneiradio.com

IOWA CITY, Iowa — University of Iowa senior guard, Caitlin Clark, was unanimously named the Big Ten Player of the Year for the third consecutive season on Tuesday live on the Big Ten Network’s “B1G Today” show. Kate Martin and Hannah Stuelke earned Second Team All-Conference honors from the coaches and media.

Clark joins Ohio State’s Jessica Davenport as the only players in conference history to win back-to-back-to-back player of the year honors. This also marks the sixth time in seven seasons and 10th time overall that an Iowa student-athlete has been named Big Ten Player of the Year. Iowa has the second-most Big Ten Player of the Year award recipients in conference history.

A native of West Des Moines, Iowa, Clark is once again a finalist for every major national player of the year award, most recently being named a finalist for the Nancy Lieberman Award as the nation’s top point guard (an honor she earned the last two seasons). Clark leads the nation in assists (8.6 assists per game) and in scoring (32.3 points per game) after becoming the first player to finish No. 1 in both categories in back-to-back seasons. She also owns a nation-leading six triple-doubles this season, giving her a conference-record 17 for her career (second in NCAA history). Clark also became the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer in men’s and women’s basketball on March 3, 2024.

Clark is the first player in program history to be named First Team All-Big Ten four times in four years of competition.

Martin, a graduate student, in her sixth year with the program has played in every game and has registered the second-most points and rebounds for Iowa this season. Martin became the first Iowa women’s basketball player to notch 900+ points, 500+ rebounds, 400+ assists, 120+ steals, and 60+ blocks in a career.

A native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Stuelke recently owned the record for most points scored in Carver-Hawkeye Area history against Penn State on Feb. 8, 2024. She netted 47 points which is the third-most points in a single game in program history. In that same game, she broke the school record for free throw attempts (21) and field goals made (17). Stuelke has scored 20+ points on six occasions this season.

UP NEXT
The 2-Seed Hawkeyes will either face 10-Seed Wisconsin or 7-Seed Penn State in the Big Ten Tournament Quarterfinals on Friday. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. (CT) inside a sold-out Target Center. The game will air on the Big Ten Network and the Hawkeye Radio Network.

Manchester, Iowa – March 5, 2024 – The Delaware County Fair is proud to announce country music powerhouse Brantley Gilbert will be taking the stage on Friday, July 12th. This electrifying performance promises to be a highlight of the fair, delivering Gilbert’s signature blend of high-energy anthems and heartfelt ballads.

With an impressive repertoire that includes seven No. 1 hits, Brantley Gilbert has solidified his place as one of the most influential figures in contemporary country music. His chart-toppers include RIAA 7x Platinum-certified “Bottoms Up,” “Country Must Be Country Wide,” “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do,” “One Hell of An Amen,” and the Platinum-certified collaboration with Lindsay Ell “What Happens In A Small Town.” Additionally, Gilbert has achieved success as a songwriter, contributing to hits like CMA Song of the Year nominee “Dirt Road Anthem” and “My Kinda Party.”

Gilbert’s landmark record, Just As I Am, clinched the 2014 American Music Award for Favorite Country Album, further solidifying his status as a fan favorite. Praised by esteemed publications such as the New York Times, NPR, and American Songwriter, Gilbert’s music resonates with audiences worldwide.

Known for his ability to explore the juxtaposition between the party lifestyle and his deep-rooted faith, Brantley Gilbert brings authenticity and passion to every performance. His latest album, So Help Me God (Deluxe Edition), features 15 tracks, all co-written by Gilbert, and includes collaborations with industry heavyweights like Blake Shelton, Vince Gill, Jason Aldean, HARDY and Toby Keith, and Jelly Roll.

Fans can expect an unforgettable experience as Gilbert gears up for his Off The Rails Tour 2024, along with select dates on Rock the Country this spring and summer. Don’t miss your chance to witness this country music phenomenon live at the Delaware County Fair!

Tickets for Brantley Gilbert’s performance go on sale Saturday, March 9th at 9:00 a.m. Make sure to mark your calendars and secure your spot for what promises to be an incredible night of music and entertainment. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.delawarecountyfair.com.

Motorists in Spokane, Washington were alerted to a bizarre road hazard during their morning commute on Wednesday where they were advised to be on the lookout for angry raccoons.

An electronic road sign on the side of the road displayed a message which read, “Angry raccoons ahead.” Motorists didn’t really know what to do with that confusing information. The Department of Public Works contacted the company that controls the sign and concluded that a prankster somehow hacked into it and changed the message. Spokane Traffic Control, which owns and operates the sign, said they were relieved that the message was at least G-rated and not offensive.

Warmer air surges northward today along with winds gusting to around 25 to 40 mph from the southwest. Humidity values fall to around 20 to 25 percent this afternoon and create elevated to critical fire weather conditions today. The highest fire danger exists across northeast Iowa where the winds will be the strongest and snowpack has melted.

Any fires that start could spread rapidly and be hard to control. Avoid outdoor burning today.

• What: Southwest winds gusting 25 to 40 mph, humidity dropping to 20-30%, and dry fuels will create conditions for quick starting, moving fires.
• Where: Highest fire danger will be over parts of northeast Iowa. Elevated fire danger will be along and south of I-90.
• Timing: Through 6 pm
• Impacts: Fires will start very easily, moving quickly through dried grasses and dead leaves
• ACTION: avoid any outdoor burning

The National Weather Service in La Crosse has issued a Red Flag Warning for critical fire weather conditions for parts of northeast Iowa, which is in effect from 10 AM this morning to 6
PM CST this evening. AFFECTED AREA…In Iowa, Mitchell, Howard, Floyd, Chickasaw and Fayette.

Is Leap Day really necessary? The short answer is yes, it is … in order to keep our calendars accurate. We know that it takes 365 days for the Earth to circle around the sun, but it’s not quite exact. In actuality, it takes slightly longer – roughly 365 days and six hours. It’s just a few extra hours each year, but they add up. So, in order to keep the calendar accurate, an extra day needs to be added, hence February 29th. If we didn’t add the extra day every four years, the seasons would shift, and a white Christmas would be very unlikely in the summer.

Did you know there was a tradition of women proposing to men on Leap Day? If you didn’t, it’s probably because a survey found most women think Leap Day proposals are completely “out of date.” Two-thirds of the women surveyed said they would never consider proposing on February 29th. That said, 16% of the women polled said they were planning to propose today.

Some other Leap Day facts….

-A person born on a Leap Day is called a “29er”, a “leapling” or a “leaper”. The odds of being born on February 29th are 1-in-1,461.
-The Henriksen family from Norway set the Guinness World Record for the most children born on February 29 in the same family, with children born in 1960, 1964 and 1968. American family the Estes tied the record, with Leapers born in 2004, 2008 and 2012.

According to a new Delta Dental poll, the tooth fairy is leaving a little less this year. The average value of a lost tooth declined by 6% from $6.23 to $5.84. Still not too shabby.

U.S. regional ranking for the average value of a lost tooth

1. West ($8.54): Surged ahead of the pack to lead U.S. regions with the highest monetary gift for a lost tooth, marking a 37% increase since last year’s results.
2. Northeast ($6.87): Increased 12% and surpassed the national average by more than $1.00.
3. South ($5.51): Dropped below the national average, after leading last year with $6.59 for a lost tooth.
4. Midwest ($3.63): Significantly trailed the national average with a 36% drop, returning close to its 2021 average of $3.66.

MASON CITY, Iowa – Feb. 27, 2024 – On Sunday, Feb. 25, the Iowa Department of Transportation was alerted to unexpected movement on the existing Mississippi River Bridge connecting Iowa Highway 9 in Lansing, Iowa to Wisconsin Highway 82 in rural Crawford County, Wisconsin. The bridge was closed as a result of this discovery.

After thoroughly inspecting the bridge, engineers have determined there has been movement in two existing bridge piers near the work zone.

Work is already in progress to stabilize the two impacted piers so we can reopen the bridge as quickly as possible. However, work is expected to take up to two months. The bridge will not be reopened until it is deemed safe.

The nearest bridges for vehicle traffic to cross the Mississippi River are at La Crescent, Minnesota/Lacrosse, Wisconsin, or Marquette, Iowa/Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.

We are currently working on alternative transportation options for those who rely on the bridge.

For updates on the bridge construction and optional transportation services, please go to https://iowadot.gov/lansingbridge. Brief updates will be posted to the website and you can sign up to receive more detailed updates, as well.

You can also find more information on the Mississippi River Bridge at Lansing Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LansingBridge/.

Photo Credit: Mississippi River Bridge at Lansing via Facebook

Last night on American Idol, Loretta Lynn’s granddaughter, Emmy Russell performed for the judges. She sang an original song called “Skinny”, and the judges gave her golden ticket to Hollywood.

To find out more on Emmy Russell, check out her Instagram page.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Emmy Russell (@emmyroserussell)

Photo Credit:  American Idol via YouTube

We aren’t sure if Morgan Wallen has any acting aspirations, but after watching the longform promo for his Ryl Tea that he shared on Instagram, we think he has a lot of potential.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Morgan Wallen (@morganwallen)

An Ohio couple held their wedding in an unusual venue: a Kentucky gas station’s viral “disco bathroom.” Logen Abney and Tiana Ailstock, who live in the Cincinnati area, exchanged vows in the bathroom at the Hop Shops location in Verona. The store’s bathroom went viral online for a big red button that causes a disco ball to switch on and dance music to play. “Tiana, from the first dance in this disco bathroom to this moment, I vow to hop through life with you. through the funk beats and mellow melodies, every rhythm in life,” Abney said in his vows. The couple pressed the red button at the end of the ceremony to share their first dance.

Photo Credit: Hop Shops via YouTube

A college baseball player named Matt Masciangelo made his debut for Sacramento State last Friday and got hit by a pitch SEVEN TIMES in his first eight at-bats.  The announcer couldn’t believe it kept happening.

𝙉𝙊𝙏 1, 𝙉𝙊𝙏 2, 𝙉𝙊𝙏 3…
But how about 7? Sacramento State’s Matt Masciangelo was a hit… err… was hit… by a pitch seven times in eight plate appearances in his Hornet debut against Loyola Marymount on Friday… #StingersUp pic.twitter.com/U4enqrAQwD

— Sac State Baseball (@SacStBaseball) February 17, 2024

It was during a double- header, and then he also got hit in his first at-bat the next day.  So it was really eight of his first nine.  One was with the bases loaded, so it wasn’t on purpose.

Photo Credit: Sac State Baseball via X

The Clayton County Fair is set for later this summer, July 31 – August 5 in National, and they always bring in some great country music acts!  Thursday, August 1st the entertainment will include Whey Jennings, the Grandson of Waylon Jennings at 7PM.  Taking the stage at 9PM that night is 90’s country legends BlackHawk.  Friday, August 2nd acts include the Eli Alger at 7PM, and Not Quite Brothers at 9PM.  For all the details on the Clayton County Fair, check out the fair website here.

Students in Paris, Kentucky, have a day off from school today –and it’s not a snow day. It’s not even a holiday, although the superintendent thinks it should be. The district actually voted to close schools because it’s the day after the Super Bowl. Every year, the topic of whether “Super Bowl Monday” should be a holiday comes up and nothing is ever done about it, so Stephen McCauley, the superintendent of Paris City Schools, decided to put it up for a vote – and the board approved it.

Instead of having a long Presidents’ Day weekend, the schools will observe a long Super Bowl weekend. McCauley announced in a video, “No need to rush the kids to bed at halftime or leave the parties and taco dip early. At Paris City Schools, we understand school should adjust to fit real life. Enjoy the game and cheer on your favorite team.”

NEW HAMPTON, Iowa – Feb. 9, 2024 – If you travel on Front Street in Lansing you need to be aware of an upcoming road closure that may slow down your trip.

Beginning on Friday morning, Feb. 16, weather permitting, crews will close Front Street between Henry and Hale streets to start work on Pier 1 for the Mississippi River Bridge at Lansing replacement project.

Front Street will be closed through the fall of 2024. The next anticipated closure of Front Street will be from the fall of 2025 through the summer of 2027.

For more information about the Mississippi River Bridge at Lansing, visit the Iowa DOT website page at https://iowadot.gov/lansingbridge or Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LansingBridge.

Help keep everyone on the road safer. Drive with caution, obey the posted speed limit and other signs in the work area, and be aware that traffic fines for moving violations are at least double in work zones. As in all work zones, you should stay alert, allow ample space between vehicles, and wear seat belts.

The latest traveler information is available anytime through our 511 system. Visit 511ia.org; call 511 (within Iowa) or 800-288-1047 (nationwide); stay connected with 511 on Facebook or Twitter (find links at https://iowadot.gov/511/511-social-media-sites); or download the free app to your mobile device.

Photo Credit: Iowa DOT

Former Green Bay Packer Brett Favre spoke to Toby Keith a couple of weeks before Toby’s passing, and it sounds as if he knew the end was imminent.

In an interview with TMZ Sports, Brett remembered Toby telling him that he had quit chemo thinking it was doing more damage than good, and he was hopeful he hadn’t quit too late. Brett also said that Toby’s weight had dropped from 260 to 130, and that the singer said that whatever happened, he was OK with it.

Imagine taking a ride on a carousel and hopping up on a truck, an airplane, or a rainbow – instead of a colorful horse like you’ve come to expect. That’s the kind of merry-go-’round envisioned by PETA, which sent a letter to Chance Rides, the country’s largest manufacturer of amusement rides. The animal rights activists want the company to stop using animal designs on its carousels because it normalizes “the use of animals as conveyances and amusements.” Instead, they suggest using things like vehicles, spaceships, rainbows, and shooting stars. Chase Rides has not responded to PETA’s request.

A car scrapping company in Britain is offering jilted exes the chance to send former lovers to the junk heap for Valentine’s Day.  Scrap Car Comparison announced its “Scrap Your Ex” program will allow people to have cars named after their exes before being sent to the scrap heap. “Offering a unique form of ‘car-tharsis’ for anyone that has recently gone through a breakup, the ‘Scrap Your Ex’ scheme is open for a limited time to anyone worldwide who wants to trash the memories of a past relationship, or even nominate a friend’s ex that deserves to be junked,” the company said in a news release. Anyone seeking to have their ex scrapped for Valentine’s Day simply has to put their name into an online form and explain why their particular ex-lover deserves to end up in the dump. Each car scraped during the promotion will have a chosen ex’s name written on its chassis. The person who nominated their ex for scrapping will receive photographic evidence of the deed.

Photo Credit: Scrap Car Comparison

Jelly Roll will be featured in a Super Bowl commercial this year for Uber Eats where he pokes fun at all the tattoos he has on his face.  Here is a quick clip of the commercial.

I’m sure this list will spark some conversation.  With the big game on the way, the commercials during the game always steal the show.  The website Study Finds put together a list of the best Super Bowl commercials of all time.  Below are the top five.

1. Hey Kid, Catch- Mean Joe Greene for Coca-Cola (1979)

2. Apple’s Macintosh Commercial (1984)

3. Wendy’s: “Where’s the Beef?” (1984)

4. McDonald’s: “The Showdown” McDonald’s (1993)

5. Snickers: “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry” (2010)

Photo Credit: Reelblack One via YouTube

Darius Rucker was arrested in Tennessee on Thursday (February 1^st) and charged with drug possession.  According to TMZ the “Wagon Wheel” singer was arrested for two counts of simple possession/casual exchange of a controlled substance and one count of a violation of the state’s vehicle registration law.  The former Hootie and the Blowfish frontman was brought into jail around 10am PT and released about an hour later. His attorney, Mark Puryear told TMZ, “Darius Rucker is fully cooperating with authorities related to misdemeanor charges.

If you’ve ever thought of Chuck E. Cheese as a quality restaurant, which just happens to be inside a very large arcade, then you’re probably the ideal customer for the fun center’s new official cookbook. That’s right, Chuck E. Cheese has published a cookbook, so now you can prepare and enjoy all of your favorites at home without the deafening bells, sirens, and electronic sounds of the games all around you. The 128-page Chuck E. Cheese and Friends Party Cookbook features recipes for party favorites like pizzas, quesadillas, something called Mummy dogs, and birthday cakes – but there are also recipes for breakfast items, appetizers, snacks and desserts. The book is set to shelves on March 19th.

 

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A chain of Kentucky convenience stores are attracting visitors and going viral online for an unusual feature: a button that turns the bathroom into a disco dance party. Six HOP Shops locations in Northern Kentucky have big red buttons installed in their bathrooms with a sign reading: “Do Not Push This Button.” Mary Moss, the manager at the HOP Shops in Walton, said a winking photo of mascot Hopper the Frog on the sign is meant to indicate to customers that they should actually push the button, and its an experience she recommends. Pushing the button activates colored lights, a disco ball and music in the bathroom, turning it into a miniature dance club. The bathrooms have proven to be a big draw, with workers at the HOP Shops reporting that many people come into the stores just to experience the disco bathrooms. Videos documenting what happens when someone pushes the button have gone viral on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. The first bathroom was installed at the HOP Shop in Verona in February 2023, and proved to be such a big hit that the company started expanding them to other locations, with the sixth disco bathroom opening earlier this month in Florence.

Cody Johnson was brought to tears during a show in California when he saw a young fan in the crowd holding a sign that read “I survived my bone marrow transplant to see CoJo, your biggest fan.”

 

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