IOWA (IRN) – Thousands of Iowans are calling for Gov. Kim Reynolds to excuse school days missed during last month’s polar vortex. The Des Moines Register reports an online petition asking Reynolds to pardon students from making up cancellations of three bone-chilling days in late January had nearly 14,000 signatures Thursday afternoon. While the governor doesn’t have that power, Iowa state legislators do. That’s what’s happening in Michigan, where lawmakers are considering a bill to forgive snow days.

IOWA (IRN) – Rep. Steve King has confirmed that he will run for a 10th term, despite controversies over his history of caustic remarks, including about race and immigration. The Kiron Republican has been criticized by national and state leaders of his own party, has been stripped of committee assignments in Congress and has drawn three primary challengers. In a Thursday taping of Iowa Public Television’s “Iowa Press” program King said he has nothing to apologize for.

MASON CITY, IA (IRN) – A Georgia man is in a northern Iowa jail for fraud. KIMT-TV reports he’s accused of tricking a Mason City woman out of $3,000. According to court documents, he pretended to be an agent from the United Nations diplomatic courier service and promised the woman he would deliver a box in exchange for the money.

DAVENPORT, IA (IRN) – Iowa hair stylists are at the forefront of spotting signs of domestic violence. WQAD-TV reports the relationship between stylists and clients offers a comfortable, safe place to talk. In December 2018, the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office sent salons across the state a pamphlet that shows stylists how to approach clients who may be dealing with abuse and how to get help.

ANKENY, IA (IRN) – The World Championship Chili Cookoff is coming to Ankeny later this year, according to WHO-TV. Annually the chili championship brings in 10,000 people over the three-day event. It’s filled with chili cookoffs, craft beer, and live music. Ankeny anticipates an economic impact of $1.5 million. The World Championship Chili Cookoff is September 6th- 8th.