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The Messenger seeks freelancers

News Brief

If you want to make an impact in your community, and have a front row seat for all of its activities and developments, The Messenger has an opportunity for you. The Messenger is seeking freelance writers and photographers who will be responsible for a variety of news and feature stories. Their work will be published online and in print. These are remote work opportunities with flexible schedules. If you are interested please send a resume and a few samples of your work to Editor Bill Shea at bshea@messengernews.net.

Nominations for Hometown Pride wanted

News Brief

The Messenger is seeking nominations for its annual publication called Hometown Pride. Do you know someone who has an interesting story to tell? Perhaps they have a long track record of civic and public service. Or maybe they have an interesting and unique hobby. Or perhaps they have had some fascinating experiences they’re willing to talk about. The Messenger would like to highlight them in the annual magazine. If you know someone worth featuring in this publication, please send some information about them and ways to contact them to bshea@messengernews.net.

Fort Dodge Public Library adult summer reading program is ‘Plant a Seed, Read!’

News Brief

Fort Dodge Public Library invites adults ages 18 and older to participate in the 2026 Adult Summer Reading Program, “Plant a Seed, Read!” This summer’s program celebrates gardening, nature, creativity, and reading with hands-on activities, educational programs, trivia, prizes, and more continuing through Aug. 22. Participants may enjoy a variety of free events and activities such as reading logs, trivia, and a guessing jar, all while earning chances to win weekly and grand prizes.

Ace is the place and it is open for business

Local Business

WEBSTER CITY — The Ace Hardware store in downtown Webster City has opened its doors with a fresh look and everyone is smiling as they greet you when you walk through the doors. No one is smiling more than Andy Pruismann, the new manager of the store, which is located at 541 Second ...

City: Sports pavilion owner failed to pay on time

Local News

The company that city officials say is buying the sports pavilion at Corridor Plaza failed to make eight payments in a timely manner and has not reported some other required financial data, according to a notice of forfeiture approved by the City Council. In the opinion of city leaders, that company is MandM LLC, of Ankeny. But last month, the Fort Dodge-based Better Way Project announced that it had ousted the Ankeny outfit and was now the owner and manager of the property. It put up signs naming the facility the BetterWay CourtPlex. In a series of transactions last year, the City ...

Fort Dodge Public Library has programs and events scheduled for June

News Brief

Fort Dodge Public Library, 424 Central Ave., has scheduled events for June. • 10 a.m. on June 13 DIY Beaded Planter Stakes & Flower Pot Painting Create your own decorative beaded planter stakes and paint a flower pot to brighten up your home or garden. • 6 p.m. on June 15 Smitty’s Lawn and Landscape: Pollinator & Perennial Month Learn about the benefits of pollinators, how to plant pollinator-friendly gardens, and how to choose the right perennials for different spaces and needs. • 7 p.m. on June 22 Emily’s Paper Crafts Discover the art of quilled ...