(Radio Iowa) – [UPDATED] – Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird will seek reelection in 2026 and will not run for governor. In April, a few days after Governor Kim Reynolds announced that SHE would not seek reelection, Bird appeared at an Iowa Faith and Freedom Coalition gathering and told the crowd she was wrestling with a decision about her own political future. “I’ve had a verse on my mind. Sometimes as you pray, sometimes something comes to you, but one is, ‘Speak Lord, for your servant is listening.’ Have you ever prayed that one before? We probably all have at different times, but I am certainly listening,” Bird said.

Bird’s announcement that she’ll seek reelection comes a day before President Trump is scheduled to speak in Iowa. Bird was the only statewide elected official to endorse Trump before the 2024 Iowa Caucuses. Ever since, Trump has been predicting Bird will be Iowa’s governor someday. “This is, by the way, one of the truly most respected people in all of politics, beyond your state, beyond anywhere,” Trump said in October. In mid-May, Bird posted a video on social media featuring several of Trump’s remarks about her as Bird has attended White House events. “She’s so popular in Iowa,” Trump said. “She came out so early and I appreciate it very much.” Bird is serving in her first term as Iowa’s attorney general after defeating Democrat Tom Miller, the nation’s longest-serving attorney general.

Brenna Bird (IA Atty. General)

During public events, Bird has touted landmark policy changes and new laws she’s pushed for at the state and federal level, but Bird has said the conservative movement has more work to do. “I will stand for freedom,” Bird said. “I will fight for Iowa and we will fight alongside each other as we work to make America great again.” Those were Bird’s comments in mid-April. Bird today (Wednesday) told the The Des Moines Register she’s running for reelection because there’s more work to do as attorney general and she learned from being raised on a farm that you don’t stop halfway through a job.

Democrat Nate Willems, a lawyer from Mount Vernon who’s a former state legislator, launched a campaign for attorney general in early May. Iowa Congressman Randy Feenstra, a Republican who has formed an exploratory campaign for governor, issued a written statement Wednesday, calling Bird an exceptional and fearless advocate for President Trump and his conservative agenda and promising to do everything he can to see her re-elected.

(Radio Iowa) – Iowans who celebrate Independence Day early with fireworks may be upsetting some of their neighbors, and not just for shattering the tranquility. Those loud noises can make it very difficult for people who have post-traumatic stress disorder, or P-T-S-D, according to victim advocate Erin Collins at Emplify Health by Gundersen.

“The most important thing to remember during this holiday season is that there are people out there that you may not know that hide out in their houses that avoid the fireworks and the festivities,” Collins says. “It’s not because they’re less patriotic or less appreciative of the holidays. It’s just that the loud cracks and booms associated with fireworks, it’s very difficult for them to handle.”

P-T-S-D is a mental health disorder that can develop in some people after they witness a scary, dangerous or even shocking event. Fireworks can be particularly distressing for people who’ve been around gunfire, so Collins suggests if you want to set off noisemakers, abide by state and local ordinances and laws.

Sailors watch fireworks in Yokosuka, Japan, August 8, 2018. (U.S. Navy photo by Garrett Zopfi) – via VA.gov

“Containing it around the time of the 4th of July is better,” Collins says. “It’s a lot more surprising for people who have PTSD when they’re firing them off at all hours of the day during the week. They can brace for impact on the 4th of July, but if there’s fireworks going off at all hours, then it’s a lot more difficult for them to cope.” The holiday is supposed to be about celebrating our nation’s independence, and honoring those who help to maintain our freedoms, but people who set off small explosions may be doing the opposite for those who served.

“Sometimes our veterans who have come back from foreign wars are impacted by those loud cracks and booms from fireworks,” he says. “Some of them have trauma or PTSD, and it’s important to remember them during this time of year, not only as a celebration for their sacrifice, but also to be aware that they may be impacted by those celebrations.” If you might be suffering from the disorder, Collins says talk to a professional about treatment options.

“They may include some medications to help ease the anxiety or depression that often is associated with that disorder,” Collins says. “Also, counseling and therapy can be very effective in adapting to a life, whether you’re a service member who is discharged or a member of the public.” He notes, P-T-S-D is very treatable.

Emplify Health by Gundersen has clinics in Calmar, Decorah, Fayette, Lansing, Postville and Waukon, and a hospital in West Union.

(Algona, Iowa) – A fireworks accident Tuesday night in northern Iowa resulted in the death of a man from Whittemore, in Kossuth County. According to the Kossuth County Sheriff’s Office, the accident happened at around 9:10-p.m., Tuesday, at the corner of 5th Street and Kossuth Avenue, in Whittemore. Authorities say 33-year-old Patrick Prentice was injured while holding a launcher tube while lighting fireworks, when the incident occurred.

Rescue crews and Sheriff’s Deputies arrived on the scene. Prentice was transported to the Kossuth Regional Health Center in Algona, where he was pronounced deceased. The State Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct and autposy.

The Kossuth County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Whittemore and Kossuth County EMS, and Air Med 3 from Mason City. The Kossuth County Medical Examiner’s Office assisted in handling the accident investigation.

(Radio Iowa) – A wind turbine plant in West Branch re-opened Tuesday as the national debate on renewable energy continues. Nordex U-S-A C-E-O Manav Sharma tells K-C-R-G T-V he has nothing but compliments for the state of Iowa. “Of all the places, we have never felt more welcome than we have here in Iowa,” Sharma said. Wind power makes up about 60 percent of the state’s total electricity production, the highest rate in the country. Governor Kim Reynolds attended the event and says the plan is to keep investing in renewable energy.

“We’re number one because we’ve been intentional, and we’ve been intentional to build a workforce, put in place the infrastructure and the policy climate to empower companies like Nordex to thrive,” Reynolds says. While Iowa has embraced wind energy, Nordex’s reopening in the state comes alongside a national debate over renewable energy. The Trump Administration’s ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ is removing tax credits for wind manufacturers. But, Senators also removed a proposed new tax on wind projects, which Nordex said would’ve prematurely killed the business. Sharma admits that uncertainty is the enemy of business.

Manav Sharma, CEO Nordex (photo from windpowermonthly.com)

“Is there an uncertainty in the business today, yes. But does that dissuade us from taking the business decisions we needed to take? No. And the reason is the economic behind wind still work,” Sharma says. While Sharma wouldn’t go into specifics, he said the West Branch plant already has enough contracts to keep it open for several years.

The facility will also be used as Nordex’s North America training site.

(Radio Iowa) – Despite outcries about high grocery prices, an American Farm Bureau Federation survey finds the cost of a typical Independence Day meal for a family of ten fell slightly from last year. Christopher Pudenz, an economist with the Iowa Farm Bureau, says they based the study on an array of foods many of us will be enjoying on a picnic table beside the grill this weekend. “There are about a dozen items total, things to make hamburgers, hamburger buns, cheese, ground beef. There’s some items for desserts,” Pudenz says. “There’s some side items like chips, potato salad, things like that, and of course, you’ve got to have your lemonade for your July 4th cookout.” While some items are more expensive than during the 4th of July weekend last year, the prices on others have dropped.

“The price this year for ten people total was $70.92,” Pudenz says. “That comes out to $7.09 per person, and that is the second highest that they have registered since 2013, when the American Farm Bureau started doing this informal survey.” That total is down 30-cents from last year, which was the highest priced meal at $71.22. Tariffs impacted the costs on some items this year, while other market influences brought more price stability. “There were several items that had year-to-year increases,” Pudenz says. “Fewer cattle available meant beef prices were higher. Steel and aluminum tariffs caused the price on canned goods, specifically pork and beans, to be higher. Some of the items that went down though, greater pork availability meant that the pork chop was cheaper this year than last year.”

Iowa Farm Bureau Federation photo

The price also fell from last year on potatoes and wheat, meaning the prices for potato salad and buns were cheaper. He notes how higher prices at the grocery store don’t necessarily translate to farmers making more money. “It’s important to keep in mind that the share of the retail food dollar, so the dollar spent at the grocery store, only about 15 cents of that makes it back to the farmer,” Pudenz says. “There are lots of other components that get a little bit of that dollar along the way.” Despite that, he says Iowa farmers remain resilient, continuing to meet demand and provide a stable food supply.

DES MOINES – Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate today (Wednesday) announced that after a nationwide search, Bailey Kelley will take on the role of Director of Elections. Kelley has been on staff with the Iowa Secretary of State’s office for two years, most recently serving as Deputy Director of Elections. In a press release, Pate said “We conducted a nationwide search to find the best candidate for this role, and it was clear that the most qualified person came from within our own staff. Bailey has extensive experience in elections and academia and has proven herself as a valuable member of our team. We are looking forward to seeing her excel in this new role.”

Kelley received the Certified Elections Registration Administrator (CERA) certification from the Election Center, also known as the National Association of Election Officials. The professional certification for election administrators requires graduates to complete an extensive number of hours of election training and attend several conferences and workshops to gain experience and education on voter registration and election administration.

Bailey Kelley, IA Director of Elections

Prior to joining the Elections Team with the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office, Kelley worked in elections in Johnson County, Iowa.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds all boaters and anglers to check for unwanted hitchhikers on their boats and equipment this Fourth of July to help protect Iowa lakes and streams.

Aquatic invasive species move from one water body to another by hitchhiking on boats, in bait buckets and on other equipment used in the water. They can create serious problems for Iowa waters and negatively impact the quality of outdoor recreation experiences.

“Aquatic invasive species can reduce native species and make lakes and rivers unusable for boaters, anglers and swimmers, “said Kim Bogenschutz, aquatic invasive species coordinator for the Iowa DNR.

These invasive species often grow quickly and spread fast when brought to another lake or stream due to a lack of natural predators or competitors.

Boaters and anglers can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species to new water bodies by cleaning, draining and drying their boats and equipment after each time on the water.

• CLEAN any plants, animals, or mud from your boat and equipment before you leave a waterbody.
• DRAIN water from all equipment (motor, live well, bilge, transom well, bait bucket) before you leave a waterbody and leave drain plugs out during transport.
• DRY anything that comes into contact with water (boats, trailers, equipment, boots, clothing, dogs). Before you move to another waterbody either: Spray your boat and trailer with hot or high-pressure water; or Dry your boat and equipment for at least five days.
• Never release plants, fish or animals into a water body unless they came out of that waterbody and always empty unwanted bait in the trash.

These steps are not only recommendations; they are the law. It is illegal to possess or transport aquatic invasive species, transport any aquatic plants on water-related equipment, and transport boats with drain plugs intact in Iowa. It is also illegal to introduce any live fish or plants, except for hooked bait, into public waters.

Learn more about aquatic invasive species, including a list of infested waters in the current Iowa Fishing Regulations or at www.iowadnr.gov/ais.

DES MOINES – The Fourth of July holiday weekend draws thousands of people to Iowa state parks, beaches, lakes and rivers. Follow these tips and precautions to keep you, your friends and family safe this holiday weekend.

Beach & Swimming Safety

Water is refreshing and fun, but it’s essential to know how to stay safe in and around water to prevent accidental drownings. Stay safe wherever you choose to swim, whether it’s a backyard pool, a pond or lake, or a public pool.

• Keep a close eye on others, especially children. Assign a designated adult to watch over children, and never assume someone else is watching them. Be close enough to touch the child at all times. Even in ankle deep water, the current can be strong enough to sweep you off your feet and out into deeper water.
• Swim with a buddy.
• Avoid swimming or wading in rivers.
• If you haven’t swam in a long-time, refresh your abilities. All children should learn to swim with formal lessons.
• Always wear a life jacket. Make sure kids wear their life jackets before getting in the water.
• Avoid alcohol while swimming.
• Stay within the roped-in area of the lake.
• Obey posted signs and flags.
• Learn how to perform CPR. If you are already certified, learn the latest techniques and refresh your skills by recertifying. Check with your local hospital, workplace or doctor’s office for training opportunities.
• Take a water bottle with you and keep it nearby throughout the day. It’s easy to get dehydrated in the sun, particularly if you’re active and sweating.
• Note that
  • Iowa’s public beaches do not have lifeguards on duty.
  • Alcohol is prohibited at some public beaches.
  • Glass bottles are prohibited on beaches.
  • Pets are prohibited on beaches.

Boating Safety

• Plan ahead and avoid peak hours and large crowds of boating.
• Park your vehicles and trailers in designated parking spaces NOT in grass areas or they will be ticketed and towed.
• Alcohol and boating don’t mix. Wind, sun glare and heat can enhance the effects of alcohol, hindering the operator’s ability to make necessary decisions.
• The same limit of .08 for operating a vehicle under the influence applies to boating.
• Always have a designated operator that avoids consuming alcohol.
• File a float plan with a friend, including your destination, expected time of return and type of boat.
• Always wear a properly fitted lifejacket. Kids under age 13 must wear a life jacket at all times when the boat is underway. The vessel must have enough life jackets for all members on board.
• Check for open ramps or water hazards before heading out.
• Before leaving the house, check the trailer lights, wheel bearings and the hitch.
• Make sure there is a current fire extinguisher and horn/whistle, a wearable life jacket for everyone and a USCG approved throwable device onboard.
• Slow down and watch for other boaters or personal watercraft, have patience.
• Avoid dams and other hazards on waterways.
• Obey all posted warning signs and rules.
• Drain plugs and other water draining devices must be removed and/or remain open during transport to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species to new water bodies.
• Take a boater education course. Iowa law requires any person 12-17 years old, who will operate a motorboat over ten horsepower or a personal watercraft, to successfully complete the education program.

State Park and Forest Campground Safety

The Fourth of July is one of the busiest times to visit a state park as people enjoy beaches and outdoor activities in the summer sun.

• Pack snacks, food, water and personal hygiene products to bring along for hiking and other recreational activities in state parks. Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids. Pack bug spray and sunscreen.
• Keep pets on leashes.
• Slow down on park roadways and obey posted speed limit signs. Families and kids are often walking or biking on the roads.
• Share the trail – be aware of hikers, bikers and equestrians when using multi-use trails. Bikers yield to hikers and horseback riders. Give plenty of space and communicate your presence to keep everyone safe.
• If a parking lot becomes full at a park or campground, staff may temporarily close the parking lots and limit the number of visitors at that point. If there is no parking available, do not park in the grass areas, along roadways or any other area that is not a designated parking lot. Violators will be cited.
• If a park is busy, consider visiting a nearby state park that is less populated. Or visit the park during non-peak times, which often include mornings and evenings.
• “Carry In, Carry Out”—pick up any trash and carry out what you carry into the park.
• Don’t transport firewood; buy it locally. Burn all the firewood at your campsite rather than leaving it or transporting it to a new area.
• Use designated fire rings or grills, and fully extinguish fires when done. Don’t burn trash.
• Be respectful of your neighbors camping around you. Keep noise levels low, especially at night.
• Check the DNR website for current alerts and closures.
• If you plan to fish, be sure to have a current fishing license. Anyone 16 years and older must have a fishing license to fish Iowa waters. You can purchase one by visiting: https://gooutdoorsiowa.com/, or by downloading the Go Outdoors Iowa app on your mobile device through the Google Play store or the App Store. You can also buy your fishing license at some retailers in your area.

Paddling Safety

Whether it be tubing, kayaking or canoeing, paddlers are enjoying the splash of the water, scenic views, and wildlife viewing from Iowa’s rivers, rapids and streams. Many new paddlers are getting out on the water for the first time this summer.

• Always wear your life jacket. Kids 12 and under must wear a life jacket at all times when the vessel is underway. Iowa law requires life jackets on every watercraft, whether it’s a motorized boat, jet ski, kayak, canoe, or even a paddleboard.
• Never paddle rain swollen rivers, rapids or streams that are at or near flood stage.
• Paddle with a group, not by yourself.
• Tell a friend or loved one where you will be paddling, including what access to what access, and when you are expected to return. It will be easier to find you if you need help.
• Know and understand your river levels and flows, as well as the weather forecast.
• Avoid swimming, wading, paddling or boating near low-head dams. Often difficult to see from upstream, low-head dams have deadly recirculating currents. Watch for warning signs, listen for rushing water, and get out and scout when in doubt.
• Learn about and study your route in advance. Know where your take-out access is located, how many river miles downstream, and how long it is going to take to get there.
• Check the Iowa DNR’s interactive paddler’s map for updates on real-time hazards like downed trees and log jams, strainers and bridge construction. Pay attention to the dam warning signs and know where dams are located before you head out on the water. Bridge construction projects across Iowa could close some sections of rivers this summer.
• Bring along a dry bag with a set of extra clothes you can change into if you get wet, a first-aid kit and a protected cell phone or weather radio.
• Pack plenty of water to stay hydrated. Wear light, loose fitting clothing that dries quickly. Wear a hat, sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen.
• Find individual water trail maps, including access points at iowadnr.gov/water-trail-maps.

Fireworks Safety

Fireworks are a spectacular and traditional way to celebrate the Fourth of July.

• Fireworks are strictly prohibited in state parks; only sparklers are allowed.
• Fireworks can cause serious burns and eye injuries. The Iowa Department of Public Health encourages families to make sure an adult supervises fireworks and keeps young children from playing with or igniting them.
• Keep fireworks pointed away from you and others when igniting them, and back up quickly after lighting. If fireworks don’t ignite or burn fully, don’t try to relight them or pick them up. Keep a bucket of water or hose on hand to respond to a fire or mishap.
• If you have asthma or other lung impairments, be aware of air quality conditions following firework shows, which can temporarily emit smoke and small particulates in the air, impacting breathing.
• Pick up litter and dispose of any unused fireworks in a safe manner.