Trial evidence wrapped up in two days, sent to jury Thursday

A jury in Dickinson County found Kyle Ricke guilty of first-degree murder in the death of Algona police officer Kevin Cram. The prosecution and defense presented their cases over two days before sending it to the jury. The state and defense rested their cases Wednesday afternoon. The state’s witness list included Ricke’s mother, agents from the Iowa Dept. of Criminal Investigation, and medical examiners.

By Molly Montag, News Correspondent

Kossuth County’s libraries have cleared the first hurdle to reversing a $188,000 funding cut.

In front of a standing-room only crowd, the Kossuth County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on Tuesday, July 9, to direct the county auditor to draft a budget amendment restoring funding to the county library system.

SPIRIT LAKE—A Dickinson County jury today, Thursday, July 11, found Kyle Lou Ricke of Algona guilty of first degree murder in the slaying of Algona Police Officer Kevin Cram. Ricke faces life in prison without the chance for parole. 

A jury was seated and opening arguments began Tuesday morning, July 9.

This is the story of Kim JinHo. Torn from his family during a war, rescued by a G.I. from Algona, adopted by that G.I.’s mother and became a successful and respected U.S. citizen. His story is one of sorrow, courage and hope. He is not so different from the immigrants of today. Motivated by a dream and a chance.

By Marilyn Deal

By Molly Montag, News Correspondent

The Kossuth County Planning and Zoning Commission is expected to consider issuing a moratorium on the construction of commercial solar farms next week. The ban is expected to be temporary.

The 5-member Planning and Zoning Commission will consider a moratorium on commercial solar projects at a meeting on Monday, July 15, said Kossuth County Engineer Doug Miller, who also acts as the county’s zoning administrator.

Got a great nature photo?  Don’t miss your opportunity to showcase that photo in this year’s “Portraits of Kossuth” Photography Contest sponsored by the Kossuth County Conservation Board.  Here are the rules:

Must be a nature photo (weather, wildlife, landscapes, etc.).

Photo must have been taken in Kossuth County within the last 12 months.

Photo must be at least 8” x 10” and be framed and ready to hang (frame can be any size).

The Wesley Glow Run sponsored by the Wesley Public Library was held Wednesday night, July 3 followed the next day with July 4th games and activities.

Photos below in order:

Carter Rasmussen was all smiles after he won the big pedal tractor.

Cooper Earles gives a thumbs up.

Kara Eischen showed no fear when the ball came at her.

Drew Fogarty reaches high to volley the ball.

By Joanne Roepke Bode, Kossuth County Farmers Market

Our community is gearing up for a special week in Algona - the annual Founders’ Day celebration. One of the special activities happening during this time is the Art in the Park event on Saturday, July 13. Kossuth County Farmers Market customers will have many more faces greeting them when they arrive at the market this Saturday - art vendors will be there with us in the Carnegie Lawn area.

By Molly Montag, News Correspondent

An Algona gas station has been fined for allegedly selling tobacco to an underage customer.

Algona City Council members voted Monday, July 1, to accept a settlement with Chib, LLC, doing business as Akron Stop, for an alleged incident that happened at the company’s station at 107 US Highway 18 West.

The Water’s Edge Nature Center is hosting a traveling exhibit from the International Wolf Center for the month of July.  Wolves and Wild Lands Exhibit shows a variety of wolf species and gives information about the animal, their interaction with humans, and insight into their future.  This display will be housed at the nature center for the month of July.  Nature center hours are Monday through Friday, 8 to 4:30 p.m. or weekends from 1 to 4 p.m.

Patron’s at the West Bend library had a great day learning origami with Takeshi. Besides learning a few origami patterns they were also taught a folk dance. 

Below photos in order:

Ashlyn Montag created an Origami Penguin.

Takeshi from Japan, a participant of the Japan Outreach Initiative, shared information about his home town in Japan.

Kids got creative with recycled materials creating masterpieces at the West Bend Library. Photo above: Espyn Wirtz creates a flower arrangement using painted egg cartons. First photo below: Thaddeus Gambell and Emrie Ulrich work on art using recycled lids and buttons. Second photo below: Brooklyn Montag and Linnea Zaugg glue their projects together for a bright piece of art. Submitted photos

Learn the latest in pork industry trends and technology at annual event

AMES, Iowa – Pork producers and others involved with swine production can learn the most current information on emerging critical industry topics at Iowa Swine Day, July 25 at the Iowa State Center in Ames. Sessions will be presented by renowned speakers from the U.S. and around the world. The event is organized and presented by the Iowa Pork Industry Center at Iowa State University.

ORANGE CITY, Iowa – The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dairy Team monthly webinar series continues Wednesday, July 17, from 12 noon to 1 p.m.

By Sonya Sellmeyer, Consumer Advocacy Officer for the Iowa Insurance Division

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average roof replacement cost is $10,000.  Understanding the coverage for your roof on your homeowners insurance can be the knowledge that ensures your home and your finances remain secure in the face of Iowa weather.