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One Man’s Perspective: The aftermath

I spent some time over the weekend — hey, I’m working from home until December, so sue me — watching TikTok videos of people absolutely losing it over President-elect Donald Trump defeating current Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 general election.

Video content — and this is TikTok only mind you — including people ex-communicating friends and loved ones to people calling for assassination of the 47th president to Trump supporters mocking the implied distress.

Letter to the Editor: You get the government you deserve

Sadly, the “better angels among us” were outnumbered so we’ll all be living with the government we don’t deserve but Russia and China love.

There will be no storming the Capitol in a failed coup attempt, dozens of unfounded lawsuits, years of lies of a stolen election. Unlike before, this administration will insure a civil transfer of power. Maybe the last one ever. Jan. 6, 2021, never forget!

Letter to the Editor: Resolve to solve

Counting today, Veterans Day, there are 70 days until Donald Trump is inaugurated (on Jan. 20, 2025) for the second time as POTUS. I would like to suggest that we use this period of time to resolve to solve some burning issues, including, but not limited to, dealing with who is in this country illegally and why, who is working diligently for a fiscally sound economy (and who is not), and who is providing needed health care vs. the enabling of killing the unborn needlessly.

Guest Commentary: Coming together after the election — A path toward unity

Now that the election is behind us, it’s time to look ahead with a sense of purpose and commitment to rebuilding unity as a country. Political campaigns, by nature, can be divisive — pitting individuals against one another in stark contrasts of ideology, values, and vision. However, with the election concluded, it presents an opportunity for all of us to step back from the heat of partisan conflict and focus on what binds us together rather than what divides us.

Lawn & Garden: Holiday gift ideas for gardeners

It’s time to begin tackling that gift list for the holidays. Consider gifting your favorite gardener something practical and attractive to enjoy for months and even years. No matter your budget, you can find the perfect gift to generate a smile immediately and throughout the garden season.

Extension Outreach: A Journey Through Parkinson’s

In October I was able to attend the Northwest Iowa Parkinson’s Disease Conference, hosted by Dickinson County Extension staff. With over 100 in attendance, it was a valuable day of learning and networking about Parkinson’s disease.

I have a unique connection to Parkinson’s disease, having a parent as well as a grandparent with the disease. Learning about the disease, its effects and possible treatments has been a way of life since childhood.

Randy’s Review: The Palms reopening offers summer blockbusters

In a salute to the reopening of The Palms — formerly known as the Southpark 7 — in the aftermath of the flooding and subsequent cleanup, they have decided to continue showing some of the box office hits from the summer local viewers may have missed.

As a result, I too have include brief reviews of movies that they will continue showing into week two, enjoy.

 

‘BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE’ — Keaton, Ryder back in wacky demon romance

On Land and Water: A double and a tough hunt

I slapped the side of my dad’s truck hard, hoping he’d get the message, and hit the brakes before I risked a combat roll off the tailgate.

Pastor's Column: God is with you

For the seasons when it feels like you’re alone or that God is not even in your corner, I have some good news. There is a God who deeply loves you and is committed to keeping your heart safe in troubling times. 1 John 3 says that God loves you so much that He calls you His child and that is who you are as you’ve embraced Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.

Tiger Eye: My first debate tournament of this season

This week, I participated in my first debate tournament of this season. It also happened to be my first debate tournament in Lincoln-Douglas debate, which went exceedingly well.

Letter to the Editor: A passage from 'Tired of Winning'

I would like to share a passage from the book “Tired of Winning” by Jonathan Karl, a political journalist and author. These words were written by a person who had served Trump in a critical role in the West Wing. “He (Trump) lacks any shred of human decency, humility or caring.

Around the City: New rental property repair grants don’t do enough

The Spencer City Council recently approved a resolution directing city staff to use $300,000 of leftover money from last year’s budget to try and get some of the city’s 250-plus rental housing units still shuttered by the June 22 flood back open again.

The problem is that the city’s plan, while strong on good intentions, is weak in effect.

The CommStock Report: Farming with inflation and no help from Washington

Prospects for a new farm bill may or may not improve after the election. Farm bills have been enacted during lame duck sessions before. Both parties say they want to pass a new farm bill but they each have different versions of what that bill should contain and there is no consensus. They have settled for extending the current version but there are programs that eventually require that they be refreshed to be fully funded that need reauthorization or modification.

One Man’s Perspective: Vote today

I won’t offer a comment on the election. Readers probably know my viewpoint anyway … if you don’t we should talk sometime (see below). But regardless of party, regardless of who you are casting ballot for, regardless of what else you have going on, vote.

People, you’ve had plenty of time to cast you ballot via the absentee method. If you haven’t by now, make time to the polls Tuesday.

Lawn & Garden: Grow healthier gardens with the help of a soil test

Soil is the foundation of a healthy garden, but let’s be honest, most gardeners don’t like spending time, energy and money on it. It’s more fun to show off pretty flowers or share tasty vegetables. But creating a healthy soil foundation will increase your growing success which means more beautiful flowers, larger harvests and a healthier landscape to enjoy.

Extension Outreach: Getting in on Clay County 4-H fun

We had a great time at our 4-H Kick Off event last week! Thanks to everyone who was able to come out and join us for food, games and exciting new 4-H year plans. Our phenomenal leaders have great things planned for the year and we are excited to get started. If you couldn’t make it to the event, but you’re interested in getting in on the fun in Clay County 4-H this year, here is what you need to know.

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