Opinion

Class act

Your View June 13, 2026

Everyone deserves a teacher, friend and mentor like Mr. Clark. Our friendship began about 15 years ago with a simple phone call. From that moment on, he became an important part of my life. Back in junior high, I wanted to be like him — and in 1973, that dream came true when I became a football coach. Over the years, we shared many moments, including a visit to Nora Springs where we spent the day talking, laughing and reminiscing about Anson Junior High and life. He always had a sharp mind and a kind spirit. I will truly miss him. I’ll never forget the nickname he gave me ...

Pet safety during severe weather: Knowing when to call 911, when to call non-emergency, and when to call the Rescue League

Columnists June 13, 2026

Extreme weather can impact more than just us humans. Our furry friends can sense these storms approaching as well. During severe weather pets can become frantic, run away, hide, escape through fences, and find themselves in places they shouldn’t be. This is why it’s important to take your ...

I need a favor from you

Your View June 12, 2026

Whenever you begin a project that is years in the making, costs lots of money and tons of personal time, you keep your eyes fixed on the finish line. You know the community will appreciate it. All along the way, the group creating the project are dogged by the “we don’t need this, our community doesn’t deserve nice things” from people on Facebook and in person. Yet the people behind the project trudge on to completion. When the project finally becomes reality, it is more beautiful than anyone in the community could have imagined. Ribbon cuttings and celebrations abound from ...

Trolling for Trolls in Clinton

Columnists June 12, 2026

Wanna little day trip that is sorta like a pilgrimage? Head for Clinton, Iowa on U.S. Hwy. 30 on the Mighty Mississip to see the Trolls. We first saw Trolls a couple of years ago in Chicago at the Morton Arboretum. I never imagined that others might wind up in Clinton, Iowa. But yep’r, ...

Here to ‘help’

Columnists June 12, 2026

Politicians promise they’ll “help” us. President Donald Trump says he’ll “create the jobs and future you deserve.” President Joe Biden liked to say, “Help is on the way.” I prefer President Ronald Reagan’s: “The nine most terrifying words in the English language are, ‘I’m from the government and I’m here to help.’” An economy runs best when government gets out of the way and lets free market competition work. Economist Donald Boudreaux gets that, and it’s why “The Triumph of Economic Freedom” is the title of his new book. Boudreaux explains ...

RAGBRAI ride and rest

Your View June 12, 2026

As Ragbrai comes through town it is time for Marshalltown to open our doors to people from many different places. As a rider of Ragbrai long ago I do remember the need for rest and the comfort it was to have a night’s sleep after the hot ride or the rainy ride on the 7 day journey. People on the route and wherever I stayed were gracious and I know how much I appreciated it. Those of us in Marshalltown once again have been given the chance to open up our yards, homes and hearts to those who may be just a bit weary at the end of the ride. Thank you to the many who have already ...