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Opinion

Lowering costs for Iowa small businesses and taxpayers

Local Columns

When I’m traveling across Iowa, I’ve had important conversations with Iowans from communities large and small about how we can make life more affordable for our families, farmers, workers, seniors, and small businesses. From health insurance to housing to grocery bills, I’m working with ...

No one should feel like they’re facing winter alone

Local Columns

There’s a certain point every year when the temperature drops, the sky turns that particular shade of gray, and we all look around and think, “Welp … here we go.” Winter in Iowa — at least this year — isn’t subtle. It just shows up and sticks around. And with winter comes a ...

A thank you for a job well done

Editorial

During a big winter storm such as the monster that dropped 13.5 inches of snow on Fort Dodge recently, lots of people like to stay inside, sipping their favorite hot beverage while they watch the white stuff pile up outside. But one group of people goes out in every storm, and the work of ...

Lights at Kennedy makes season bright

Editorial

As Christmas approaches, the campground at John F. Kennedy Memorial Park has once again been transformed into a holiday wonderland. The 22nd annual Lights at Kennedy will help make the season more festive for area residents and visitors. Additionally, the event raises money to support local ...

Memories from the family that made Shimkat Motor Co. a success

Local Columns

When your family is in the car business, it’s a really big deal when you turn 16-years-old and get your driver’s license and your very first car. Bill Shimkat remembers in vivid detail that day in 1986 when his father, Edward C. Shimkat, took him out to the Fort Dodge family’s ...

A Time for Angels helps those who mourn

Editorial

The death of a loved one is the emotional equivalent of getting hit by a train. There’s almost nothing that can create the bewildering range of emotions that the death of a loved one can generate. The range of emotions can include anger, fear, sadness, loneliness and other feelings that ...