Front Page Lead

Let it fly

Nathan Broek | Sports EditorTim Boekhout of Rock Rapids has enjoyed archery most of his life as a member of archery clubs in surrounding communities. It did not take long, however, for him to realize there were other members of the community that liked archery also.“I’ve been a member of other archery clubs before and, […]

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Proud to be a Marine

FAMILY LINEAGE OF SERVING Gordon Faber poses with a self-portrait from his time serving in the military 50 years ago. He was one of four brothers to serve and says he enjoyed every minute of serving. (Photo/Nathan Broek) may is military appreciation monthGordon Faber reflects on being in the Marine Corps during the war in […]

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Time for remembrance

Jennifer Kor | Staff Writer jkor@ncppub.com Memorial Day is a federal holiday set aside to honor and mourn military personnel who have lost their lives while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Many communities celebrate with services organized by veterans’ organizations such as American Legion or VFW and auxiliaries. “Memorial Day is important because it […]

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Two extensions to be added to trail system

Jessica Jensen | Managing Editor jjensen@ncppub.com During the regular city council meeting Monday, May 11, the council awarded a contract to Mulder Concrete of George for a combined project consisting of adding two extensions to the trail system in Rock Rapids. The extensions will be added to the trail known as the Boone Street Trail […]

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Incumbent sheriff talks about his role, deputies and success

Jessica Jensen | Managing Editor jjensen@ncppub.com (This is the first of a two-part series.) When Stewart Vander Stoep was a youngster, he recalls telling the church preacher what he wanted to do when he grew up. “I either wanted to be a country music superstar like Johnny Cash or a policeman,” he recalled. “Well, the […]

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Challenger says his skill set makes him the right choice

Jessica Jensen | Managing Editor jjensen@ncppub.com (This is the first of a two-part series.) A unique opportunity in the largest county attorney’s office in the state as a college undergraduate led Steve Michael to fall in love with law enforcement. Following jobs in Miami, Florida, and with the Polk County sheriff’s department, Michael got a […]

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More beautification for Story Street

Jessica Jensen | Managing Editor jjensen@ncppub.com When a two-block section of South Story Street in Rock Rapids’ downtown area was set to undergo rehabilitation last year, the plan included beautification in the form of new light poles and hanging flower baskets. However, the window to put the baskets on the poles last spring was missed […]

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Victory in Europe Day anniversary observed

Victory in Europe Day, or V-E Day, is celebrated on May 8 and marks the surrender of the forces of Germany to the United Nations in Europe, ending World War II in Europe. This year commemorates the 75th anniversary of that formal act in 1945. The anniversary was celebrated in Rock Rapids at the Veterans’ […]

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At the corner of memories and fun

Jessica Jensen | Managing Editor jjensen@ncppub.com When Nate and Hannah Englekes’ middle son, Griffin, first started riding bike, it quickly became one of his favorite things to do. “He had a balance bike and he was on it 24/7,” said Nate. “As soon as he woke up in the morning, he’d be outside on his […]

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Highlighting healthcare close to home one year later

FACILITY IN OPERATION FOR ONE YEAR The new Avera Merrill Pioneer Health Campus opened in Rock Rapids May 1, 2019. Staff and providers have taken great pride in continuing to offer healthcare close to home the past 12 months. (Photo/Ashley Huisman) Jessica Jensen | Managing Editor jjensen@ncppub.com Just before May 1, 2019, the staff and […]

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