Big Old Glory

Gregory R. Norfleet/West Branch Times Barnharts Custom Services put up a roughly 20-by-30-foot United States flag the morning of July 3 to mark the 250th anniversary of America through the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Numerous families and businesses placed decorations or displays to celebrate the holiday.

Cue the Indiana Jones music.
Because walking through the new Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum feels more like an adventure.
And that’s intentional.

Fiero show brings 80s vibe to city
by Gregory Norfleet · News · July 22, 2026
Hoods and hatches up.
80s music on the boom box.
Tape cassettes, including 80s hits recorded right off the radio, on display in a trunk.
Bright sun, 87-degree heat, and lots of talk about cars.
Even a flux capacitor.

Hoover Highlights: Thinking about Hoover after tour? We succeeded
by Thomas Schwartz, Hoover Museum director · News · July 22, 2026
When the Herbert Hoover Presidential Museum closed in January 2025, people began asking the question: “What will be different?”

Foundation: Take new look at Hoover’s legacy
News · July 22, 2026
WEST BRANCH — Few American presidents have had their economic philosophy debated as passionately or remembered as long as Herbert Hoover, according to a Hoover Presidential Foundation press release.

Downey Baptist’s Bible school teaches how everyone ‘very important to Jesus’
by Gregory Norfleet · News · July 22, 2026
About 12 to 14 children attended last week’s Downey Baptist Church Vacation Bible School, with an “Emerald Crossing” theme.

Church news
News · July 22, 2026

Upcoming events
News · July 22, 2026

Council offers rare relief for extra water use
by Gregory Norfleet · News · July 15, 2026
Normally, the West Branch City Council hesitates when asked to waive sewer fees for a broken water pipe, a leaky toilet, or a sprinkler inadvertently left on overnight.

Heartland Fieros bringing car show here
by Gregory Norfleet · News · July 15, 2026
Pontiac only spent five years producing about 370,000 Fieros, but the two-seater rear mid-engine cars left a big impression in the 1980s.

WBHS survey: 2024 grads wanted more rigor in class
by Gregory Norfleet · News · July 15, 2026
West Branch High School Class of 2024 graduates reported feeling ready to handle English classes, but wanted more academic rigor elsewhere and help getting ready for a career.