NCC unveils new competitive sports logo

Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon recently announced the launch of its new competitive sports logo, marking a bold step in the evolution of the NCC's athletic identity.

The new logo is a dynamic reinterpretation of Thunder, crafted to showcase the fierce competitiveness inherent in NCC's sports teams. It serves to distinguish between the combative spirit in the athletic arena from the friendly, approachable persona of Thunder, which NCC has maintained for its general college activities and community engagements.

A pivotal element of this new logo is the lightning bolt. This is not merely a nod to Thunder's electric persona but also homage to the storied history of NCC, particularly its award-winning electrical programs.

"Northwest Iowa Community College has consistently celebrated achievements across the spectrum, from academic success to athletic victories. This new logo stands as a powerful symbol of our dedication to excellence in sports," said Kristin Kollbaum, Director of Marketing & Communications, in a news release. "With the launch of our new soccer programs along with our existing sport shooting team, it seems like the perfect time for this reimagination of Thunder. We are excited to see how this emblem galvanizes our teams and supporters, igniting a spirit of ambition and pride."

The athletic logo is expected to debut across various athletic platforms, including team uniforms, promotional materials and digital media.

NWI fishing report

Area ice conditions are highly variable. All areas are completely ice covered. Ice thickness was 7-11 inches in most areas as of last Thursday. Ice conditions will start to deteriorate as consistent above-freezing temperatures prolong. Use extra caution along shorelines and accesses that will deteriorate fastest.

East Okoboji Lake: The lake is fully ice covered. Ice thickness was 7-12 inches in most areas as of last Thursday.

Black crappie, fair. Use minnows and plastics. Bluegill, fair. Walleye, fair. Yellow perch, fair. Sorting will most likely be needed.

Ingham Lake: The lake is completely ice covered. Ice thickness was 9-11 inches as of last Thursday.

Walleye, fair. Anglers have been successful morning and evening.

Lost Island Lake: Ice thickness was around 10 inches as of last Thursday. Black crappie, fair. Walleye, fair.

Minnewashta Lake: Ice thickness is 9-11 inches as of last Thursday. Black crappie, fair. Bluegill, fair. Pumpkinseed, good.

Scharnberg Pond: You need a valid fishing license and pay the trout fee to fish for or possess trout.

Silver Lake (Dickinson): The lake is fully ice covered. Ice thickness averaged 11 inches as of last Thursday. Walleye, fair.

Spirit Lake: The lake is fully ice covered. Ice thickness was 9-12 inches in most areas as of last Thursday. Ice can be highly variable. Be aware of large heaves.

Black crappie, good. Minnows and plastics work well. Many nice-sized fish have been seen lately. Bluegill, fair. Walleye, good. Minnows work well. Yellow perch, good. Find good numbers; may need to sort for size.

West Okoboji Lake: The lake is fully iced up. Ice conditions are highly variable with 5-11 inches being measured as of last Thursday. Foot traffic and small ATV use should be possible in most areas. Use caution.

Black crappie, fair. Try small jigs tipped with a minnow. Bluegill, good. Pumpkinseed, good. Walleye, good. Minnows and plastics work well. Yellow Perch, fair. Sorting may be needed.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

KICD weatherman visits CC/E KICD weatherman visits CC/E Monday marked National Weather Person Day, and CC/E did not let that go unnoticed. In order to enlighten students of all the ins and outs that being a weather person entails, the Mavericks invited KICD's very own weatherman, Corey Harguth, to their classrooms. Harguth spoke on what it takes to become a weather person, the hours of work and diligent physics, math and science investigating that goes into reading the weather and predicting its course to give us a forecast, and ended his time with CC/E fielding questions from the inquisitive children.

ILCC seeks nominations for Outstanding Alumni Award

The Iowa Lakes Community College Alumni & Friends Association invites nominations for the 31st annual Jim Hall Outstanding Alumni Award. Established in 1992, this award recognizes Iowa Lakes alumni who have made exceptional contributions to the community, business, school, and service clubs.

Named after Jim Hall, a dedicated 1968 alumnus and assistant football coach at Iowa Lakes, the award honors those who embody his commitment to the college. The award will be presented at the spring commencement ceremony.

Nominations are open, and the community is encouraged to submit deserving candidates who exemplify excellence and service. The deadline for submissions is March 17.

Those wishing to name a deserving candidate may send a nomination to: Iowa Lakes Alumni & Friends Association, 19 South 7th St., Estherville, IA 51334; or email at tcondon@iowalakes.edu.

More information can be found at iowalakes.edu/alumni-friends.