Afternoons with Joe

Iowa manufacturers are expanding and investing, but experts warn Gen Z’s reluctance to enter factory jobs could slow growth, raise costs, and reshape the state’s economy.

Black Hawk County has revealed the winning names from its annual snowplow naming contest, including Truck Norris, Plow Patrol, and Plowabunga. The newly named plows will be unveiled later this winter.

A 2025 holiday survey by Sera Capital ranks all U.S. states on generosity, spending, and holiday habits, Kentucky leads the “Nice” list, Hawaii and others land on the “Naughty” side, and Iowa sits near the national average.

Cedar Falls has released its holiday facility closures, adjusted refuse collection dates, and seasonal pickup details for late December and early January. Here’s what residents need to know.

Cedar Falls has opened a new municipal parking lot downtown, offering free four-hour parking with enforcement Monday through Saturday. The lot will serve as a temporary solution through spring 2026.

Small Business Saturday in Waterloo and Cedar Falls has been rescheduled to December 6, with shopping giveaways, free reusable bags, and a family-friendly pickle scavenger hunt to support local businesses.

Dave Boesen has been elected mayor of Waterloo, unseating longtime incumbent Quentin Hart in a runoff. The former firefighter and city council member pledges new transparency, fiscal responsibility, and a fresh start for the city.