News

Love and light take center stage

Local News October 29, 2026

Love, loss and the search for light in a dark world will find expression in song today as Iowa Central Community College’s music department presents “Love and Light.” The fall instrumental and vocal concert begins at 7 p.m. today in Decker Auditorium at the Iowa Central Community College Center for Performing Arts. Admission is free. Alongside the choir’s exploration of love and hope, the band will perform selections inspired by the changing seasons, American history and the legacy of a music educator with local ties. “The Iowa Central Concert Choir is proud to present ...

Convicted meth dealer sent to federal prison

Local News October 29, 2026

A Pocahontas man has been sent to federal prison for about 22 years for dealing at least three pounds of methamphetamine in Webster County. Jordan Mefferd, 47, was sentenced on Tuesday, according to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa. Federal prosecutors said he pleaded guilty on June 15 to these charges: • Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine • Four counts of distributing methamphetamine • Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine • Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person From July 2024 to September 2025 Mefferd ...

Turek talks health care, campaign reforms

Local News October 29, 2026

Declaring himself to be a “common sense prairie populist who is working for Iowans” Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Josh Turek rallied with voters Wednesday morning at Friendship Haven in Fort Dodge. The state representative from Council Bluffs said making health care more affordable ...

Bird flu discovered in Sac County

Local News October 29, 2026

SAC CITY - Bird flu has been detected in a commercial turkey flock in Sac County, according to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. This is the eighth case of the disease, formally known as highly pathogenic avian influenza, detected in Iowa this year. Human health is not threatened by the disease, according to the department. It reported that eggs and poultry remain safe to eat. The discovery prompted Gov. Kim Reynolds to issue a disaster declaration for Sac County. That move clears the way for state agencies to assist with handling the outbreak. The ...

Man gets probation in attempted burglary, arson case

Local News October 29, 2026

A man who had been charged with trying to break into a Fort Dodge school last month and then setting a small fire at his home has been sentenced to probation, according to court records. Richard L. Beebe, 18, of 118 10th St. N.W., pleaded guilty to third degree attempted burglary and third degree arson. Court documents show he was sentenced to two years in prison and an $855 fine, both of which were suspended. He was ordered to serve two years of probation. He was initially charged with third degree attempted burglary, first degree arson and third degree criminal mischief. Fort Dodge ...

News of Record: Oct. 29, 2026

News of record October 29, 2026

Magistrate Court WEBSTER COUNTY Wednesday Domestic abuse assault impeding flow of air/blood — Bruce E. Merrill Jr., 36, 3021 20th Ave. N., preliminary hearing set for Nov. 6, no contact order issued. Driving while license suspended — Jacob D. Wood, 43, 1021 S. 25th St., $250 plus surcharge, court costs. Fifth degree theft — Diana I. Pina Blades, 23, 614 N. 12th St., two counts, pre-trial conference set for Nov. 19. Violation of a no contact order — Jason D. Fistler, 49, 2602 14th Ave. N., pre-trial conference set for Dec. 3. Sawad M. Henderson Jr., 24, 1607 Eighth ...