HUMBOLDT - It's not just about the next four years, it's about the next 40 years. That was the message at the Humboldt County Republican Central Committee fundraiser Thursday evening at the Humboldt County Fairgrounds. Approximately 100 people attended the event. Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, and Rep. Tom Latham, R-Iowa, both made appearances at the event.

EMMETSBURG - Palo Alto County's Sesquicentennial Celebration begins today, with a full line-up of events and activities lasting throughout the weekend. Palo Alto County is made up of nine communities, with Emmetsburg operating as the county seat. The first county government was organized in 1858. The day kicks off at 9 a.m. with games for kids at Soper Park.

CLARION - In 1937, a group of youths from Wright County decided it would be fun to steal watermelons from a farmer in the middle of the night. A harmless prank, to be sure, though one that would cost one of the young men his life. The subsequent murder trial and its aftermath will be re-enacted Tuesday evening at the Heartland Museum in Clarion. The trial will begin at 7 p.m.

GOWRIE - Gowrie has a lot more going for it than its annual Fourth of July celebration. That said, it's not a bad reason to make the trip. Festivities kicked off Wednesday evening, and residents are hoping that once people visit, they'll want to come back. ''Gowrie is the perfect small town,'' said City Clerk Shelley Segebart. ''I've lived in bigger towns, and it's just too busy.