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Reflections on America250

Local Columns

A letter written 250 years ago by John Adams to his wife Abigail reminds 21st century Americans about the bold sacrifice and binding covenant our nation’s founders made on behalf of generations to come. “...I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure that it will cost us to maintain this Declaration and support and defend these States. Yet, through all the gloom, I can see the rays of ravishing light and glory. I can see that the end is more than worth all the means. And that posterity will triumph...” On July 4th, Americans will celebrate 250 years of triumph ...

It’s a day to celebrate America

Editorial

Whether you spend this Fourth of July picnicking, enjoying a parade, attending a community celebration, watching a fireworks display or just plain loafing, there should be at least a brief time to pause and reflect on this country’s enduring experiment in constitutional democracy. And that reflection should prompt everyone to realize how lucky they are to be living in the United States of America. Certainly on this 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Americans are troubled by anxiety over pressing problems at home and abroad. Our relations with Russia, China and ...

Supports railroad merger

Letters to the Editor

To the editor: Fort Dodge has always had a relationship with the railroad. From the High Bridge to the tracks running through the heart of our city, the rail line is more than infrastructure. It is part of who we are. For the industries that drive our regional economy, from agriculture to manufacturing, reliable rail is not just nice to have; it is essential. As CEO of the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance, an organization dedicated to unifying and coordinating economic and community development to enhance the quality of life in the Fort Dodge region, my job is to position this ...

Salutes Charles Clayton

Letters to the Editor

To the editor: I just want to give Charles Clayton acknowledgement on his contribution to the Fort Dodge community. He has given so much to this city through his giving, and if you’re not benefiting, it’s more because of your own hatred of a successful person. Don’t stop doing what you’re doing, Chuck. Congratulations. James T. Mosley Fort Dodge

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 ...