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Enjoy Fourth of July fireworks safely

Editorial

When Americans enjoy fireworks on every Fourth of July, they have John Adams to thank for the colorful displays. Adams, one of the Founding Fathers who became the country’s second president, wrote to his wife, Abigail, when the Declaration of Independence was approved in July 1776 in Philadelphia. “It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other from this time forward forever more,” Adams wrote. His reference to “illuminations” is traditionally interpreted as ...

Help celebrate Hometown Pride

Editorial

In every town there are special people who contribute to the success of the community through the giving things they do. These folks — whose selfless contributions make life better for others in their hometowns — sometimes go unacknowledged. That’s unfortunate because many of the people who work without much fanfare to enhance the lives of others truly are accomplishing exceptional results. Similarly, there are organizations that have that same type of impact. That’s one of the reasons that each year The Messenger publishes a magazine supplement called Hometown Pride. The goal ...

Working to help rural hospitals

Local Columns

Rural healthcare is top-of-mind for many Iowans. Across our state, Iowans rely on rural hospitals for compassionate, personalized care close to home. Rural hospitals are also economic anchors that support local businesses, create jobs and help small towns thrive. That’s why we’re advancing policies that support rural healthcare and rural hospitals. Republicans’ Working Families Tax Cuts Act created a $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Fund, the largest investment in rural health care in history. Under the law, Iowa will receive a minimum of $100 million annually from ...

Fireworks offer light, sound, danger

Editorial

The booming sound of fireworks can already be heard occasionally, and Independence Day is still a week away. With this year being the 250th birthday of the United States, people will be trying to make the July 4th holiday even more special, and fireworks will be part of the mix. But ...

For nearly 50 years, Branderhorst made an impact on Fort Dodge

Editorial

For nearly 50 years, Lori Branderhorst had a hand in everything parks and recreation related in Fort Dodge. Programming for the pools? No problem. Aquatics were an early specialty for her. Lakeside Municipal Golf Course? Branderhorst understood the wants and needs of local golfers. Harlan and Hazel Rogers Sports Complex? She was adept at managing baseball and softball programs. In fact, her most notable achievement was securing the girls state softball tournament in Fort Dodge through 2045. She played the key role in sealing that deal with the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union last ...

It’s time to splash down at Rosedale Rapids

Editorial

It’s a sure bet that we have not seen the last of hot weather this summer. So when the days become smoldering hot, it is good to remember that there is a safe place to cool off right here in Fort Dodge. We are referring, of course, to the Rosedale Rapids aquatic center at 10th Avenue North and 32nd Street. In 2007, voters approved a bond issue enabling the city government to borrow the millions necessary to build the aquatics center. The center opened in 2010, and it provides much more than just a rectangular pool to splash around in. Its features include: • Multiple ...