Iowa is celebrating this year. The year-long commemoration will culminate on Dec. 28, 2021. Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs offers some background: Before President James Polk went to bed on Dec. 28, 1846, he dipped his quill pen in ink … more

In the natural course of nature will a lake eventually die? In the northern part of Iowa, three different glaciers impacted the landform and the formation of the lakes throughout the Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa. According to the … more

As the days of winter continue, sometimes it is pleasant to think about all of the joy that spring promises – warmer temperatures, longer days, working to prepare and plant vegetable and flowers gardens and once again hearing the sounds of Five … more

The U.S. Department of the Interior has designated the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, as a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its enduring role in the history of American music. The ballroom is best known for hosting the last concert of … more

There are very few people in this world I cherish as much as my grandmother, Mary Blake. Having been born the first grandchild a whole seven years before any others came along, I’ve had the privilege to spend countless, uninterrupted hours … more

Everything has its designated “day” and today, Jan. 21, is National Squirrel Appreciation Day. Here’s what it says online: Originally a creation by Christy Hargrove, National Squirrel Appreciation Day on January 21 is a day to learn about … more

Since the glacial formation of Five Island Lake, it has been local people interested in the long-view of the lake that’s been the impetus to improve it. In Dr. James Coffey’s book, Saving the Glacier’s Creation, the author states that Five … more

Wednesday's attack on the Capitol, a politically motivated riot which resulted in the loss of five lives including that of 42-year-old Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, was truly a shock and a devastating moment in American history. But the … more

Another exciting opportunity is on the horizon for Emmetsburg - several, really. In addition to the strategic plan that is being developed by the City of Emmetsburg, Emmetsburg Municipal Utilities and Emmetsburg Community School District, a … more

For most of us 2020 was a never-ending set of challenges. Whether dodging and weaving the onslaught of bad news caused by the ongoing pandemic, or trying desperately to simply avoid the actual pandemic itself, the year presented a master class in … more