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A vote for Scot Ely is a vote for safety, accountability and common sense

Letters to Editor

To the editor: I’m writing today because our schools, and our community, need strong, practical leadership, and that’s exactly what Scot Ely will bring to the (Webster City) School Board. I’ve known Scot for many years, both personally and professionally. I’ve seen firsthand how he approaches every challenge with level-headed logic, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility to others. When I’m faced with a tough decision in my own business, he’s often the person I call for practical, common-sense advice. Scot’s background in law enforcement gives him a unique and ...

Kerry Jacobsen is extremely professional, dedicated and kind

Letters to Editor

To the editor: I am writing in support of Kerry Jacobsen’s election to the Webster City Community School Board. Kerry and her young family have lived in Webster City for 15 years. She moved here after graduating from Iowa State University when both her and her husband’s careers required a move to our area. They selected Webster City because the community was very similar to the towns they had grown up in, as well as having a strong school district for their children. Kerry grew up in northwest Iowa, in a small town near Orange City. Kerry has been very involved with her children's ...

Ross says she's proud to support Ariel Bertran for school board

Letters to Editor

To the editor: I am proud to support Ariel Bertran for the Webster City School Board. Ariel brings a strong financial background, having spent 15 years in banking, and currently serves as our Community Development director, where she has shown dedication to strengthening and improving our community. Her professional experience gives her a deep understanding of budgets, finances and strategic planning, skills that are essential for guiding our schools effectively. As a mother of four children, Ariel has a personal investment in the future of our schools. She understands firsthand the ...

Bertran is a leader who will move our schools forward

Letters to Editor

To the editor: I’m writing to share my strong support for Ariel Bertran in the upcoming 2025 school board election. Ariel has the experience, heart, and vision our schools need to continue growing and improving for every student. Ariel knows that education is about more than test scores — it’s about creating meaningful opportunities for all students to learn, grow and thrive. She values our teachers, listens to families, and believes every child deserves a safe, supportive and inspiring learning environment. What stands out most about Ariel is her commitment to collaboration ...

A perfect pain in the rear

Local Columns

Okay, I’m a senior citizen now and I’m mature enough to admit to my faults. My jaws crack noisily when I eat apples and I snarf down popcorn too quickly. I bore my family by repeating jokes and personal anecdotes and my Dutch stubbornness and German temper sometimes get in the way of human harmony. I preach “sermons” worthy of Billy Sunday when I get disgusted with someone or something and I have been known to have been too frugal. This list, unfortunately, goes on. The stain of original sin did not pass me by. One fault I have difficulty admitting, however, is the fault of ...

The Daily Freeman-Journal and Kendall Young Library are hosting two candidate forums

Local Columns

The Daily Freeman-Journal and Kendall Young Library are partnering to host two candidate forums relevant to the upcoming Webster City School Board and City Council of Webster City elections. These forums will take place at Kendall Young Library. The school board forum will be on Monday, October 27, from 6 to 8 p.m. The City Council of Webster City forum will be on Tuesday, October 28, 6 to 8 p.m. Moderating these events is Bill Shea, editor of The Messenger, Fort Dodge. The forums will follow the following format: First, each candidate will be allowed time to address the ...