Tuesday, March 7, 2023
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA (IRN) – Firefighters in Cedar Rapids responded to a garage fire early this morning. Fire crews said the two adults and four children living in the home were able to make it out safely. The fire extended from the garage to the home. Officials said the garage is a total loss and there was major damage done to the house. The cause of the fire is under investigation. DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – A $4 million settlement has been reached in a racial discrimination lawsuit against the University of Iowa football program. But some of that money is to be paid by residents of Iowa. The settlement has Iowa taxpayers paying about $2 million, something State Auditor Rob Sand is strongly opposed to. Sand says this is the fourth discrimination lawsuit filed against Iowa’s Athletic Department in less than nine years – all under Gary Barta’s leadership. He argues taxpayers should not be on the hook for this mistake. ALLAMAKEE COUNTY, IA (IRN) – A 58-year-old man from Postville was driving a semi-tractor and trailer when the vehicle entered a ditch and tipped onto its side in Allamakee County. The trailer was carrying roughly 4,000 chickens, many of which were killed or severely injured. The driver wasn’t injured. IOWA CITY, IA (IRN) – Public transportation in Iowa City could soon become a more convenient option for all residents. City staff have continued their conversation on the possibility of a city-wide zero-fare transit system, and are considering funding options. OSKALOOSA, IA (IRN) – A historic building in Oskaloosa is finding new life. The outside of the old post office will remain almost the same while the building will be turned into a sit-down style restaurant — with the top floor becoming a private area for special events. The basement will become an open bar.