Iowa gets a “B” for human capital on the latest Manufacturing and Logistics Report Card. The national report looks at the number of high school and college-educated workers. The study added, however, that relatively high taxes may prevent some firms from relocating to the state.

Presidential GOP candidate Marco Rubio told supporters in Windsor Heights last night he has a way to fix the national debt crisis. Rubio says the social security and Medicare programs need to be reformed.

Des Moines’ Airport Authority meets next week to decide whether to make a move to terminate the National Guard’s lease at the airport. The National Guard Bureau missed another deadline to submit plans for the Iowa Air National Guard base in Des Moines.

IDOT and the Iowa Economic Development Authority are looking for a company to help them put together a new energy plan for the state. They want to promote energy, economic and environmental benefits. Proposals are due next month.

Egg and poultry groups told a U-S Senate Ag Committee hearing yesterday that state and federal officials failed to move quickly enough to ward off the bird flu. Senator Chuck Grassley is optimistic about future assistance and prevention of the bird flu in Iowa after the hearing.

Folks with respiratory problems may not want to go outside today.  The Department of Natural Resources say wildfire in Canada have sent some plumes our way, and it’s really hurting the air quality.

A central Iowa pastor is buying raffle tickets with the hope that he’ll be able to spare a city official from being shocked by a stun gun. The city of Van Meter has been selling the tickets as part of a public safety fundraiser. The winner will get the opportunity to use a stun gun on the City Administrator or a city councilman…or opt not to stun anyone.

Waukee has made the list of Ten Best Cities for Families in Family Circle Magazine. Waukee was cited for its tight-knit roots, community festivals and excellent schools.