DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – Iowa is bracing for a winter storm that’s forecast to move across the state Friday. The National Weather Service says moderate to heavy snowfall is expected with six to eight inches of snow in north-central Iowa and four to six inches of snow for the rest of the state. Mixed precipitation is possible Friday night in southern Iowa. Slick and snow packed roads may create hazardous conditions, along with blowing snow reducing visibility.

WEST BURLINGTON, IA (IRN) – The West Burlington police department has released the name of the deceased man they say shot at them and forced an hours-long standoff. WQAD-TV reports police recovered the body of Michael Kartel, 62, after the standoff. Kartel was firing shots at officers through the windows of his house, and setting multiple fires inside.

DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds asked lawmakers on Tuesday to consider increasing the state sales taxes by 1 cent to raise money to boost funding for water quality, the environment and mental health care programs. To offset the tax increase she proposed an income tax cut by an average additional 10 percent beyond the rates set in the 2018 tax cut for next year.

DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – A new hotel and casino could be coming to the Des Moines International Airport. KCCI-TV reports HighView, a property development group, presented the idea to the Des Moines airport in a meeting Tuesday morning. Airport officials say it’s important for them to review opportunities that could fund millions worth of the airport’s financial gaps.

DUBUQUE, IA (IRN) – Athletes celebrated at the Grand River Center in Dubuque after wrapping up two days of competition in the Winter Games of the Iowa Special Olympics. KCRG-TV reports about 280 athletes competed in Dubuque during the two-day event. They came from all across the state to do their best in events that included Alpine and cross country skiing, figure and speed skating, and snowshoeing.