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National Police Week 2026 by Joel Phillips

Columnists

As we observe National Police Week 2026, I am reminded of the sacred trust placed in the hands of those who wear the badge. This week is more than a ceremonial tribute; it is a moment to honor the courage of every peace officer who stands between danger and the people we serve. It is also a time to remember the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, and to support their families who carry an enduring weight that no public event can truly ease. National Police Week falls each May, culminating on Police Memorial Day. This week gives us a focused opportunity to ...

National Police Week 2026 by Chris Jones

Columnists

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15th of each year as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week including that day as National Police Week. National Police Week allows us to honor and remember our fallen law enforcement officers, support their families, and recognize the dedication and service of those who have served and are serving within the profession. For local law enforcement officers, this week offers a moment of reflection on the tremendous public support we have in Marshall County. Throughout my career, I have come to appreciate this time ...

WolfTornabane has fresh ideas

Your View

I am weary of the constant chaos and the negative tone that has come to dominate our political conversations. Neither has led to effective governance, and both have left many constituents feeling frustrated and unheard. With the election primaries just weeks away, now is the time to thoughtfully consider the candidates in both parties. We have an opportunity—and a responsibility—to choose a new direction. In recent months, our current leadership has struggled to produce meaningful results, and there has been little accountability within the GOP regarding Donald Trump’s ...

From the Mayor’s Desk: Volume 5

Columnists

“Change is constant, growth is optional.” Former longtime 2nd Ward City Councilor Tom Curley told me that in late 1998. And it stuck. I believe that Tom told me that it was a Marshalltown Chamber saying at the time. What was true in 1998 still rings true in 2026. With all the changes going on in Marshalltown right now, many of them are eyed towards improvements and growth for residents AND newcomers. And that is my idea of economic development in a nutshell. Everybody wins. A good example of this is the Arts and Culture Alliance. The City has a five-year agreement with the ...

From drug addict to Doctorate!

Columnists

Twenty plus years ago, Nikolas (Nik) Kerr, formerly from Mt. Pleasant, was in Minneapolis. He started on the north side of the city and worked his way south. He had a map of every pharmacy, drug store, Walmart and CVC in the metropolitan area. At each store he bought all the pseudoephedrine they would allow. Nik had an advantage, he didn’t look like a druggie. He looked more like Mr. America. He knew how to act, too. In some of the more downscale stores, if he thought he could get away with it, he would fake talking on his cellphone. “Oh, you’re sick? Sure, I’ll see if I can get ...

No deportation date for Bolivian immigrant tabbed for Congo

Columnists

José Yugar-Cruz, the Bolivian immigrant targeted by federal officials for deportation to the Democratic Republic of Congo, does not know when he would be deported, members of Escucha Mi Voz Iowa said Tuesday. Motions aimed at winning his release offer hope that he will not be deported at ...