Column

Publisher’s View — Kyle Troutman: Old news to celebrate
In the past two weeks, there have been more important topics to cover in this space than my mid-July trip to Wales, my first time across the pond for a mix of business and vacation.

Community Voices — Jon Horner: The two words that never go out of style
I recently received one of many “Thank You” cards from various members of the Class of 2026.

Publisher View — Kyle Troutman: See you at the polls!
In less than a week, Barry County voters will have their say on numerous local races and issues, as well as a few prominent constitutional amendments — all of which have the potential of maintaining or altering the future paths of our county and state.

Community Voices — Terry Held: The fight for reading; Literacy on the ropes
There are battles that announce themselves with headlines and protests, and there are also quiet battles.

Publisher’s View — Kyle Troutman: Looming in optimism
It was 8:10 p.m. on Thursday in Cardiff, Wales, when I got the news. Three local newspapers and our press ceased operations — effective immediately.

Community Voices — Merlyn Johnson: Amendment 5 presents important questions about Missouri’s future
On Aug. 4, Missouri voters will decide the fate of Amendment 5, one of the most significant tax proposals to appear on a statewide ballot in many years.

Publisher View — Kyle Troutman: Give it a rest, chaos
It’s inevitable. Every time I try to leave town, the world goes a little bonkers. Floods and murders have both occurred while I have been “on vacation,” and hopefully we’ll…

Publisher View — Kyle Troutman: Reflecting and preparing
May and December are typically our busiest months of the year at the newspaper, but July is giving the other two a run for their money this year.

Staff View — Sheila Harris: Death threats are not OK
I learned last week that Mike Henbest, owner of the property where HydroAg Environmental proposes to construct a sludge-storage tank, has been receiving death threats.

American Insights — Dakoda Pettigrew: Alice Paul’s dream
Women voting: It was her dream. It was also the unfulfilled promise of America’s founding principles.




