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Local Columns

A celebration today of Albert Habhab’s 100th birthday

As he moved into his 90s, Al Habhab would confide to close friends that he already had made plans to celebrate his 100th birthday with a party at the Fort Dodge Community Orchard on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025. “I told Bev and Greg Baedke to reserve that date,” he would say, referring to ...

September is Life Insurance Awareness Month

September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, making it an ideal time to educate yourself about this important financial decision. According to the Life Insurance Marketing and Research Association (LIMRA), 44 percent of consumers are only somewhat or not knowledgeable about life insurance. ...

Q&A: Blue slips

Q: What is the blue slip tradition in the U.S. Senate? A: The blue slip refers to a paper form, literally a blue piece of paper, the Senate Judiciary Committee has used for more than a century to give home-state senators the courtesy to show their endorsement or disapproval for a ...

Honoring labor, honoring Jane Burleson

Recently, I was honored to introduce Fort Dodge’s own Jane Burleson as she was inducted into the Iowa Federation of Labor’s Hall of Fame. Jane’s incredible story is a reminder that the labor movement is not just about contracts and wages; it’s about people who spend their lives fighting ...

‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill’ is jet fuel for economy

Among several issues that Americans report as their highest priorities, a strong economy usually tops the list. That makes complete sense. After all, a strong economy means bigger paychecks, more jobs, and greater opportunities for families, farmers, workers, and businesses in Iowa and ...

A destination that doesn’t know it’s a destination

As a Webster County supervisor, I serve on a variety of boards and commissions that help shape and support our community. These appointments allow me to work closely with local and regional partners while making sure county priorities are represented. I’ve had the privilege of serving on the ...