CRESTON, Iowa (AP) — Crews in the southwestern city of Creston were struggling yesterday to reach what appeared to be a plugged sewer line. The state Department of Natural Resources says workers discovered the problem yesterday afternoon in an area about a quarter-mile from a road. Gaining access to the line has been difficult and crews were cutting trees to reach the area last night.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — A House panel has approved a bill that would limit the growth of local government and slow the projected increase in the taxable value of residential and agricultural properties. The bill backed by Governor Terry Branstad now goes to the full House. Some Senate Democrats say they worry the bill would reduce state revenues.

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Governor Terry Branstad and China’s consul general are stressing the importance of trade in advance of a visit to Iowa by China’s vice president. Speaking at a Statehouse news conference yesterday, Consul General Yang Guoqaing noted that China’s relationship with Iowa is vital because the state is an agricultural powerhouse. Branstad said yesterday he’s committed to improving trade relations with China.

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz says Phil Parker could have left Iowa for a defensive coordinator’s job at another major program more than once. Ferentz also said yesterday that departed offensive coordinator Ken O’Keefe’s job will be a tough one to fill after O’Keefe left for the Miami Dolphins.