ANAMOSA, IA (IRN) – An inmate assaulted two staff members at the Anamosa State Penitentiary Monday morning. An inmate punched a correctional officer, and the officer used pepper spray to bring the inmate temporarily under control. While other staff helped restrain the inmate, a responding officer suffered an injury to his hand during the struggle.

DAYTON, IA (IRN) – The Webster County attorney is investigating reports of a celebration of life ceremony that packed a bar and grill in Dayton. A celebration of life took place Friday at the Iron Saddle Saloon. Photos from the event show a full bar with no COVID-19 mitigation efforts in place. Dayton Mayor Dave Bills says he attended, and there are no problems because everyone knew each other. He says “we’re smart people” and that “he’s not too concerned about the health risks.”

DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – Iowans may pay more in utility costs next month because of the polar vortex. The Iowa Utilities Board said, “While customers will likely see an increase on their bills, we don’t yet know how much or the timing of when they will see the increases.”

CORALVILLE, IA (IRN) – State wildlife officials said on Monday that the recent extremely cold weather in Iowa may be to blame for the deaths of dozens of geese along the Iowa River in Coralville. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources said they believe that reduced food supply due to cold weather is the cause of illness and death among waterfowl.

DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – High school competition will return to Drake Relays following a one-year hiatus due to COVID-19. Organizers of Drake Relays announced Monday that Iowa high school students will return for competition in 2021. Strict COVID-19 protocols will be enforced, and high school competition will be condensed to one day.