CHARLES CITY (AP) — A company based in the Czech Republic has opened its first North American tire factory in Charles City. Mitas opened the plant today in a ceremony attended by Governor Terry Branstad and Petr Gandalovic, the Czech ambassador to the United States.

SIOUX CITY (AP) — A Sioux City-based maker of vinyl and aluminum windows and doors says it is expanding its South Sioux City, Nebraska manufacturing operations. The Sioux City Journal in Iowa says Gerkin Windows and Doors is breaking ground on land near its current 165,000-square-foot factory built in 2004.

SIOUX CITY (AP) — Morningside College Athletic Director Jerry Schmutte will resign next month to take a position in Hastings College in Hastings, Nebraska. Officials at Sioux City-based Morningside say Robbie Rohlena, dean of enrollment, will act as interim athletic director starting June 1st. The search for Schmutte’s replacement is under way.

WATERLOO (AP) — Mitchell County supervisors are sending out requests for architects to submit proposals for a new courthouse. The decision came after a consultant said creating an efficient work space in the existing courthouse built in 1858 would be difficult. Supervisor Joel Voaklander says he’s sending letters to about a half-dozen architectural firms. He’s also looking into temporary space for courthouse offices.