News | Spencer Daily Reporter

King hosts 38th town hall in Ruthven (9/16/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

RUTHVEN — U.S. Rep. Steve King made his second to last stop of his current 39 county town hall tour Monday, meeting with voters inside the senior center in Ruthven over the noon hour. During the town hall, three members of the Podunk Resistance conducted a peaceful protest outside bearing signs while King delved into updates and issues, including a number of topics relating to illegal immigration...
Seasons free kids’ carnival set for Sept. 26 in Spencer (9/16/19)

Seasons Center for Behavioral Health is hosting a free kids’ carnival from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, in Spencer. This free, family-friendly event is open to the entire community and families of all ages are welcome. The free kids’ carnival will take place at Autumn’s Center at 120 E. Fifth St. in Spencer...
Orrison announces intent to run for reelection (9/16/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

Ward 2 City Councilman Bill Orrison announced his intent to run for reelection during Monday night’s City Council meeting. “I had announced four years ago after I was elected, ... I said then I was not going to pursue another term,” Orrison said. “But there’s been so many exciting things going on in the last couple years. I just want to stay around and see that happens...
Council punts on microbrewery ordinance, approves Main Street restorations (9/16/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

Being described by City Attorney Don Hemphill as “the cart being ahead of the horse,” the second filing of an ordinance allowing the establishment of microbreweries downtown was given the rare recommendation to be voted down in order to later return to the subject with a different ordinance and restart the process...
5 agencies unite for multicounty traffic safety saturation (9/16/19)

For the first time ever in northwest Iowa, two state and three county law enforcement agencies are coming together for a traffic safety saturation project. Administration from the Iowa State Patrol, Iowa Motor Vehicle Enforcement, Lyon County Sheriff’s Office, Osceola County Sheriff’s Office and the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office have put together a saturation project for Friday in order to combat injury and fatality crashes...
Library to host ‘Tea Awakenings’ (9/16/19)

Nathan Clark will use his extensive tea knowledge for a tea tasting at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, at Spencer Public Library. Clark is no stranger to libraries or to tea. He is the director of the Emmetsburg Public Library and has been a tea enthusiast for many years. As part of his program, he demonstrates tea preparation with many different types of teas and gives samples out for participants to try. A light lunch will be provided...
Linn Grove campground plan, flood repairs on hold (9/16/19)

By Dana Larsen, NWIA Publishing

LINN GROVE — Plans for a Linn Grove campground development on the north side of the Little Sioux River remain on hold after an archeological find in the area. During a preliminary check of the area, evidence was found of a foundation for a possible Great Oasis culture dwelling. ...
Changes on the home front for Homeology (9/16/19)

By Seth Boyes, Northwest Iowa Publishing

ARNOLDS PARK ― It's been a whirlwind transition, but former Homeology Decor and Boutique owner Laura McMahon said she's excited the business is now in the hands of Megan Helgeson. The two began talks in late August, and Helgeson officially took the reigns of the Arnolds Park business on Sept. 9. The pair said customers can expect many aspects of Homeology to remain the same, but some new brands and products will likely make their debut in the near future...
Longhouse-Northshire Resident of the Month (9/16/19)

Muriel Lorraine Roberts Boyles was born Jan. 13, 1927, on a farm in Reinbeck to Ralph Elmer and Muriel Nesta Shoemaker Roberts. This was the same place her mother was born. Muriel has two siblings: Gwendolyn Faye and Jerold Allen Roberts. She attended and graduated from Everly High School...
Northwest Bank, Aventure Staffing earns ‘Top Workplace’ awards (9/16/19)

Both operations continue streaks on list Northwest Bank and Aventure Staffing have both been awarded a 2019 Top Workplaces honor by the Des Moines Register. The Top Workplaces are based solely on the results of an employee feedback survey administered by Energage LLC, a leading research firm that specializes in organizational health and workplace improvement. Several aspects of workplace culture were measured, including alignment, execution and connection, just to name a few...
Business Brief (9/16/19)

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Avera President and CEO Bob Sutton announced a new chief medical officer has been selected to lead Avera Medical Group. Kevin Post has accepted the role of Avera Medical Group’s CMO when Tad Jacobs retires at the end of 2019. Post will start in October in order to spend some time learning the role with Jacobs. ...
Ag Brief (9/16/19)

ANKENY — Iowa soybean farmers have been elected to state and national leadership posts. during a recent meeting of the Iowa Soybean Association board of directors. Joining ISA President Tim Bardole, of Rippey, on the state association’s executive committee are: Jeff Jorgenson, of Sidney, president-elect; Dave Walton, of Wilton, treasurer; Robb Ewoldt, of Davenport, secretary; and Randy Miller, of Lacona, at large. ...
Keeping fairgoers safe, 20 years on (9/15/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

It has long been said the “World’s Greatest County Fair” is a massive undertaking by the community. Joe Lau, of Spencer, is one of the many community members who adds a fair job to his schedule come fair week and decided for the 2019 Clay County Fair, he would again return as a security guard and end his fair career on the 20-year mark...
Soapbox Voices: Taylor wants to fix ‘broken’ Congress (9/15/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

The final soapbox voice heard for the 2019 Clay County Fair was Republican candidate for Iowa’s 4th Congressional District, Jeremy Taylor. Taylor introduced himself to fairgoers, highlighting his past service as a state representative and his current service in the Iowa Army National Guard...
Snapshots from the Fair - Sept. 16, 2019 (9/15/19)

A young calf takes advantage of some personal attention from Tyce Heuton, a kindergarten student from Albert City. The two came face-to-face at Grandpa's Barn. --- During his performance of "Blue Hawaii," in the Forever Elvis: The Spirit Lives tribute show, Elvis made his way from the Farmers Bank stage and into the audience to deliver some special gifts...
Valor in action (9/15/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

Medal of Honor recipient shares story During CommStock Investments’ annual customer appreciation event held inside the Eurocast Events Center Ballroom Saturday at the Clay County Fair, the crowded room heard from keynote speaker Clint Romesha, recipient of the Medal of Honor...
King to host town hall in Ruthven today (9/15/19)

RUTHVEN — U.S. Rep. Steve King, from Iowa’s 4th Congressional District, will be hosting a town hall meeting in Palo Alto County Monday. The town hall, which is open to the public, will be conducted from noon to 1 p.m. at the Ruthven Senior Center, located at 1301 Gowrie St. King has pledged to hold a town hall in each of the 39 counties in his district this year, and as scheduled this town hall will be the 38th King will have hosted in the district since January...
Gov. Reynolds makes fair stop (9/15/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

Gov. Kim Reynolds made her first stop to the Clay County Fair since ascending to the office of governor Friday. Reynolds, joined by state legislators and party members, toured the fair making stops and talked to fairgoers at a number of eateries, an agriculture implement dealer, Grandpa’s Barn and also stopped to meet Clay County Fair staff in their office before departing...
Sioux Central declares ‘Constitution Week’ (9/15/19)

By Sue Nielsen, Buena Vista Chapter, DAR

There are two documents of paramount importance to American history: the Declaration of Independence, which forged our national identity, and the Constitution, which set forth the framework for the federal government that is still in use today. While Independence Day is a major national holiday, fewer people know about Constitution Week, an annual commemoration of the living document central to our American way of life. ...
Beautiful sound may complement beautiful view for musician (9/15/19)

STORM LAKE — The physical beauty of Buena Vista University attracted Josh Dunsbergen to the Storm Lake campus more than one year ago. The sound of the place has him even more excited about his college choice. Dunsbergen plays trombone for the BVU Marching Blue, the university’s marching band, which made its first appearance in 21 years on campus while entertaining players and fans as the Beavers hosted Concordia University in the third annual Community Night football game on Peterson Field at J. ...
US Corn Belt farmers hope for an endless summer (9/15/19)

By John Roach, AccuWeather staff writer

With a week left of summer officially, you’d think farmers might want to finally see an end to this frustratingly difficult season. Actually, they’re wishing for an endless summer. Corn and soybeans are still roughly seven to 10 days behind schedule thanks to the delayed start to planting because of rains and flooding. So, the longer the warmth can linger, the better hopes for getting their crops to maturity...
Business Brief (9/15/19)

Northwest Iowa Bone, Joint and Sports Surgeons’ team of doctors has a new addition, Dr. Jesse Wolfe. Wolfe is an Emmetsburg native and completed his Bachelor of Science degree at Bethel University in Arden Hills, Minnesota. He received his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine from Des Moines University in 2016. ...
ISU leadership headlines Ag Outlook panel (9/12/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

The Iowa Soybean Association hosted the Ag Outlook Panel Thursday morning inside the Clay County Fair and Events Center ballroom, where Iowa State University leadership: ISU President Wendy Wintersteen, Dean of the College of Agriculture Daniel Robison and Vice President for Extension and Outreach John Lawrence, took questions including how the university positions Iowa agriculture for the future...
A place of their own (9/12/19)

By Randy M. Cauthron, Managing Editor

Tiny Town designed to let kids play, parents rest As Centennial Plaza at the Clay County Fair continues to evolve with new arches designed to serve as monuments to the entrances of the former Ag Building; another new addition to open space includes Tiny Town...
Scheduled Clay County Fair Soapbox Appearances (9/12/19)

The Clay County Fair Political Soapbox, a partnership between the fair, Spencer Daily Reporter and SDR Radio Group, is located near the northeast corner of The Depot building on the Clay County Fairgrounds. The soapbox talks offer candidates a small, more informal setting where they can address potential voters...
Live at the Clay County Fair (9/12/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

Broadcaster Orion Samuelson gets up close and personal with fairgoers In a crowded Eurocast Events Center Ballroom, an iconic voice often heard on the radio was instead heard in person as famous broadcaster Orion Samuelson hosted a panel and question and answer session Thursday afternoon at the Clay County Fair. Moving between jokes, personal stories, Samuelson Sez and pieces of personal wisdom, the crowd listened intently as the broadcaster spoke for approximately an hour...
Jacobsen will not seek council reelection (9/12/19)

Leann Jacobsen, Spencer Ward 4 City Councilwoman announced Thursday afternoon she will not be seeking reelection. “The time has come for me to step aside to follow other pursuits,” Jacobsen explained in her statement. “To support much of the city's exciting momentum, it is important to have an inclusive council. I encourage other progressive-minded women to step forward and campaign for a seat, so that a balanced perspective can continue benefitting the council's direction.”...
Snapshots from the Fair - Sept. 13, 2019 (9/12/19)

Demonstrating what they mean by “Big Air,” members of the ATV Big Air Tour team boarded BMX bikes, motocross and four-wheel sports vehicles to entertain a large crowd in the Sleep Number Grandstand. The tricks and stunts kept the crowds cheering throughout...
Snapshots from the Fair - Sept. 12, 2019 (9/12/19)

A family affair. It’s been a long time since the Christians family all got together at the Clay County Fair, but one brother and four sisters spent a day together at the “World’s Greatest County Fair” and found the perfect place for a quick family photo just outside the Ag Learning Center. ...
Friday at the Fair (9/12/19)

Jake Rose With Jon Pardi —7:30 p.m. — Sleep Number Grandstand With his latest single, “Econoline” setting the pace, Jake Rose will kick off a night of hot country when he takes the Sleep Number Grandstand stage to open for Jon Pardi at 7:30 p.m, Friday...
SHS homecoming royalty announced (9/12/19)

Full week of activities begin Monday, Tailtwisters add pregame bonfire Thursday night Celebrating the theme “We Got the Beat,” the Spencer High School homecoming celebration will commence on Monday with a series of dress up days and activities which will continue through the week, culminating in the homecoming dance Friday, Sept. 20, following the home football game against Humboldt...
Bones headed to PLAC (9/12/19)

Minneapolis music scene stalwart Scottie Miller has been around long enough to acquire a funky nickname — “Bones,” membership in the Minnesota Blues Hall of Fame, experience touring with blues icon Bo Diddley, a signature style that warps far to the south of his home tundra, and an international representative...
Discussion continues for Lincoln, Fairview development (9/11/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

The Spencer Community School Board will continue their preliminary discussions surrounding two potential projects at Fairview and Lincoln Elementary Schools. The board reviewed a number of concepts and improvements with CMBA Architects during their Tuesday evening meeting, ultimately choosing to continue development discussions. The current scope of potential developments for both schools was estimated to cost approximately $13 million...
City of Royal pursues lift station grant (9/11/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

ROYAL — The city of Royal is working with Northwest Iowa Planning and Development to apply for and secure grant funds for a lift station generator for use in preventing backups during a sewer system outage. NWIPD Planner Cara Elbert said additional documentation needs to be filed before the city’s application can proceed, and the city hoped to alleviate potential damages that could occur during a lift station outage by replacing a 4-decade-old generator still in use...
‘Prisoners of War’ author to present at Ruthven Library (9/11/19)

By Jay Schoning, Ruthven Zip Code

RUTHVEN — The Ruthven Public Library will welcome author Linda McCann at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 20. Explore Iowa history and Iowa stories with one of our state’s most prolific researchers and writers. McCann has traveled and spoken to hundreds of individuals and groups about the history and narrative of Iowa — what is still here to photograph and research, as well as what has been lost to time. ...
Franken aims to continue service in Senate (9/11/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

Democratic candidate and Sioux County native meets voters at Clay County Fair soapbox Retired three-star admiral and Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, Michael Franken, was the first candidate for Senate to speak at the 2019 Clay County Fair political soapbox Tuesday, and said he was familiar with the “World’s Greatest County Fair,” having last attended as a high schooler in the 1970s. ...
Thursday at the Fair (9/11/19)

ATV Big Air Tour 7 p.m. — Sleep Number Grandstand Derek and Jon Guetter split their time between entertaining live audiences and creating films of their crazy stunts. And they do it all while riding ATVs. The Guetters will bring the high-flying, thrill-a-minute ATV Big Air Tour to the Clay County Fair for some action beginning at 7 p.m. Thursday in the Sleep Number Grandstand...
Local bridge projects receive federal funding (9/11/19)

By Russ Mitchell, NWIA Publishing

Cost estimates and a meeting with the Iowa Department of Transportation could change the totals, but Dickinson County may be in line to receive about $1.5 million in new funding toward bridge repairs. State Rep. John Wills on Sept. 4 said the Iowa Department of Transportation secured a major federal grant to improve aging bridges across the state...
King’s support for renewable fuels earns ‘Fueling Growth’ Award (9/11/19)

WASHINGTON — Iowa 4th District U.S. Rep. Steve King, R-Kiron, was presented with the “Fueling Growth” Award by representatives of Growth Energy. Growth Energy is the nation’s leading biofuel trade association, and the “Fueling Growth” award is the highest honor given by the organization to congressional biofuel advocates.
Tuesday at the Fair (9/9/19)

When legendary Christian recording artist Michael W. Smith takes the Sleep Number Grandstand stage at the Clay County Fair for an evening of praise and worship following opener Tauren Wells, it will be the first time Smith has performed at “the World’s Greatest County Fair” since 1996...
Never Forget (9/9/19)

By Randy M. Cauthron, Managing Editor

Exhibit, NY firefighters offer inside glimpse at 9/11 attacks The 18th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on New York, Washington, D.C., and other sites on the East Coast falls on Wednesday. Locally, many people were on the Clay County Fairgrounds when the national tragedy forced Americans to stop what they were doing and find the nearest news source to learn more about the devastating assault and subsequent loss of life on United States soil...
The golden sound (9/9/19)

Music-loving visitors to the Sleep Number Grandstand Monday evening were treated to a trip down memory lane as the Country Gold Tour performed a plethora of classic country hits from a variety of decades. The audience heard from a number of performers accompanied on stage by the tour band, including (pictured) Leroy Van Dyke, who joked about last performing at the Clay County Fair in 1972 before bringing the crowd to its feet with “Auctioneer.”
Snapshots from the Fair - Sept. 10, 2019 (9/9/19)

Even Uncle Sam came prepared for the inclement weather conditions which have greeted Clay County fairgoers the first three days of the fair. The long-legged patriot engaged crowds on Veterans Day, Monday. --- John and Johnna Perry, the creative husband and wife duo who comprise Up, Up & Away’s Balloon Masters, are creating an original piece in the Ag Marketplace on the fairgrounds. ...
Clay County Fair Veterans Day program honors ‘The Forgotten Service’ (9/9/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

Veterans Day speaker showcases military laser technology Each year the Clay County Fair Veterans Day highlights veterans and a specific branch of the military. This year, the branch highlighted was the United States Merchant Marine, which speaker Brig. ...
Foreigner ticket refunds available (9/9/19)

Saturday was a rare event at the Clay County Fair — a grandstand concert cancellation. Due to muddy track conditions that affected stage placement and issues with the stage surface, Foreigner felt that the grandstand stage was unsafe for the band and stage personnel...
Williams and Company celebrates 90 years (9/9/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

Williams and Company started in Sioux City nine decades ago, but company officials say it was always the plan to call the northwest Iowa region home, including in the city of Spencer. Williams and Company P.C., is celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2019, and has grown to a staff of more than 70 with locations in Spencer, Le Mars, Sheldon, Estherville, Onawa and Yankton, South Dakota...
A new artistic chapter (9/9/19)

By Joseph Hopper, Staff Writer

Davis returns to fair and creates art you can witness Artist and Spencer High School Graduate Kipp Davis has had a big year professionally with work completed throughout the state and the Midwest. After completing Spencer’s first building mural earlier this year in the downtown, Davis has returned to Spencer for another project, a large mural in the Dish Central Plaza where fairgoers can watch him progress from start to finish. ...
Scheduled Clay County Fair Soapbox Appearances (9/9/19)

Tuesday, Sept. 10 Saturday, Sept. 14 Sunday, Sept. 15...
Questers Club honors Palmer for 4-H historic project at Clay County Fair (9/9/19)

This fair season marked a first for a local historic preservation group. Spencer’s Romanzo A. Coates Questers Club recognized and honored Alexandria Palmer, a sixth grade student at Sacred Heart Catholic School, with the 4-H Preservation and Restoration Award during the Clay County Fair. The award is similar to an existing Quester’s state-level award presented during the Iowa State Fair each year...
Gunshot survivor makes the most of life (9/9/19)

By Dana Larsen, Northwest Iowa Publishing

ALTA — Gary Jackson might be the only man alive who took his bride on a honeymoon to see where he had been shot down. Jackson, an Alta car enthusiast, brought his latest project, a sleek, red-trimmed black Corvette convertible, to the Kiwanis Kar Show over the Labor Day weekend, a long haul from a hospital bed years ago where they told him he would never walk again...