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Letters to the Editor

Thanks those who made MAGWED a success

To the editor: I would like to give a shout out to several of your area friends and family for the tremendous job they do in hosting a fishing event held annually at Triggs Bay Resort in Okoboji, called MAGWED. This event was started by Bob Brown, of the Fort Dodge Messenger, in 1975 to encourage fellowship and fishing. Fifty years later, this event has evolved into one of the best fishing events held in the Okoboji area each year. I want to thank Jerod Dencklau, of Moorland, and his whole crew for the incredible job they do every year in hosting this family event. Next year Grant ...

Appreciates work done by Beacon of Hope

To the editor: I have been a steadfast supporter of the Beacon of Hope since its inception under the leadership of Steven Roe. My commitment to this cause has continued throughout the organization’s journey, including its ongoing efforts under the guidance of Brian Bidleman. The dedication and perseverance demonstrated by the Beacon of Hope inspire confidence and deserve continued recognition from our community. Jesus Christ tells us “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine you did for me.” The Beacon has done this since its ...

Iowa needs a governor who shows up

To the editor: Iowa voters aren’t asking for anything complicated. They want a governor who shows up, listens, and actually fights for them. That’s exactly why I’m supporting Adam Steen for governor. Adam brings something Iowa is missing right now: real leadership rooted in presence, accountability, and the courage to challenge the status quo. He’s not scripted. He’s not insulated. He’s accessible, engaged, and willing to take on tough conversations — because he understands that government should serve people, not political insiders. That stands in sharp contrast to ...

Property tax relief shouldn’t come at the expense of Iowa Central

To the editor: As the Legislature debates property tax reform, I want to be very clear about what’s at stake for Iowa Central Community College and the communities we serve. Community colleges account for just 2 to 3 percent of the average property tax bill. That’s a small slice. Limiting that portion will not meaningfully change what most Iowans pay. But it will have a very real impact on students, workforce training, and local economies. At Iowa Central, those dollars are not sitting in a flexible pot. They are largely restricted by law to essential costs—facilities, ...

Trump’s insult to Christians

To the editor: In posts he personally approved and shared, Donald Trump circulated images depicting himself as a miracle worker—laying hands on the sick—and standing shoulder to shoulder with Jesus in a posture suggesting spiritual intimacy and authority. These are not casual visuals; they deliberately frame a political figure in overtly sacred terms, inviting viewers to see him through a religious lens rather than a civic one. Christianity centers on humility, repentance, and the clear distinction between the divine and the human. Images that blur that line — casting a ...

Criticizes president’s response to pope

To the editor: President Donald Trump overstepped his authority, outstepped his ego, thinking he needed a response to the pope’s statement, opinion, about the Iran war. He probably lost thousands of voters. Eugene Anderson Fort Dodge