Ignoring topography, efficiency, expense and even their own surveyors’ recommendations, regional railroad officials in the mid-19th century diverted a new rail line around New Philadelphia, Ill., “the first town in the United States planned, platted and legally registered by an African American,” a University of Illinois researcher reports.

By Jason Kuiper, Omaha World-Herald, Neb. Jul. 13--COUNCIL BLUFFS -- No one can say the first year on the job was uneventful for Martha Bruckner.

By Jason Kuiper, Omaha World-Herald, Neb. Jun. 11--COUNCIL BLUFFS -- One Planned Parenthood health clinic in the metro area has closed but a second site will be coming to Council Bluffs. The Planned Parenthood at 4610 Dodge St. stopped seeing patients last month.

By Jason Kuiper, Omaha World-Herald, Neb. Feb. 22--COUNCIL BLUFFS -- When you're as tech savvy as Chikai Ohazama, an everyday paper map doesn't quite cut it.

By Jason Kuiper, Omaha World-Herald, Neb. Feb. 13--COUNCIL BLUFFS -- In a few weeks, Council Bluffs Community School District voters will get their first chance in 10 years to decide whether to extend a building improvement levy that has been in place for at least 60 years.