Don’t mean it

Gregory R. Norfleet/West Branch Times West Branch Middle School jazz band members perform “It Don’t Mean A Thing” on Saturday during the annual Swing Show at the Performing Arts Center. Over two days, student musicians played jazz music, sang solos, performed as small bands, and danced with show choirs. On Saturday, the event also spotlighted the Fine Arts seniors.

A Linn County judge gave a West Branch man a suspended five-year sentence after reaching a plea deal last month for enticing a minor.

Dog dies, home destroyed by morning fire in Downey
by Gregory R. Norfleet · News · March 19, 2025
Fire destroyed a home in Downey and then rekindled, prompting West Branch Fire Department to return to the scene on March 13.

Firefighters climbing for lung research
by Gregory R. Norfleet · News · March 19, 2025
Inspired by a local resident and in honor of 9-11 firefighters, West Branch will send four of its own smoke-eaters to climb steps for healthier lungs and charity.

No injuries in rollover crash
by Gregory R. Norfleet · News · March 19, 2025
Driver Patrick Stearns, 31, of Davenport, Fla., refused treatment after his 2021 Freightliner semi rolled onto its side about 3:30 p.m. March 11 near the 251 milemarker on eastbound Interstate 80.

Hills’ indecent exposure case continues
News · March 19, 2025
A Johnson County judge set a case management conference for 9 a.m. March 24 for a West Branch man accused of indecent exposure and an Iowa City Wal-Mart.

Bohannan joins Hoover Foundation board
News · March 19, 2025
The Hoover Presidential Foundation has announced the addition of Zach Bohannon to the Board of Trustees.

Campus news
News · March 19, 2025
Coe College has awarded Karley Staker of West Branch a William E. Shrope Scholarship for the 2024-25 academic year.

Church news
News · March 19, 2025

School menus
News · March 19, 2025
School menus for Mar. 20 through 26 at West Branch Community Schools.

Upcoming events
News · March 19, 2025