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Opinion

An update on the county budget

Editorials

We have turned the page on another year at the Tama County Board of Supervisors. Mid-January means that it is time for budget hearings and discussions. When the new board took over last January, we promised transparency and made a commitment to the taxpayer to use sound budgeting principles. ...

On Nature: Cattle and Conservation

Local Columns

It is good at the start of a new year to look back for positive environmental stories. Especially noteworthy this year are two locally-led, cost-sharing projects that demonstrate the compatibility between cattle and conservation. They are Iowa’s Cattle and Conservation Working Lands Project, ...

Dengler Domain: Freedom

Local Columns

What everyone wants is freedom. It does not matter if it is from the government or from industry. Everyone wants to be able to make the best decisions for themselves without outside influence. The centralization of decision making is not great for experiencing freedom. This is why when one owns ...

AEA supports provide connections, support for area educators

Editorials

Education is deeply rewarding – but at times, it can also feel isolating. Many educators spend their days making hundreds of decisions independently while navigating complex student needs, accountability pressures, and the emotional weight that comes with caring deeply about those they serve. ...

A year in review as sheriff

Local Columns

This past year as Sheriff has been challenging, eye opening, and rewarding. Overall, I truly love being Sheriff. A portion of the year was spent preparing for and handling a full murder trial, while also preparing for a second. What many people do not see is how much work happens long before a ...

Heather’s Highlights: County Government and You, December 2025

Local Columns

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a great Christmas and New Year’s! At least we got a break from all the snow we were getting in early December. I’m excited to have celebrated my 1-year anniversary since I took the oath of office as a County Supervisor. Thank you for the opportunity to ...

Embracing Iowa’s Energy and Future

Editorials

As your State Senator representing District 27, one of the unique privileges of this role is gaining firsthand insight into innovative technologies and opportunities emerging across North America. With the Iowa legislative session set to begin in January 2026, I've been reflecting on upcoming ...

Dengler Domain: College Football

Local Columns

College football is a mess. Talent is not worse, but something about the game feels off with where the sport is heading. The façade of being on scholarship was all which mattered did not make sense in comparison to when coaches started making lucrative salaries and athletic conferences began ...

Ringing in America250

Editorials

As we wind down the year, America is winding up to celebrate an important milestone in our nation’s history. On July 4, 2026, the United States of America will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding. When the clock strikes midnight on December 31, America inches closer ...