(Brad Trom’s poem, “Release the Epstein Files and the Flying Monkeys,” utilizes a surrealist lens to explore the tension between public demand for transparency and the absurdity of modern political discourse. Set against the backdrop of a “marble white” dome—evocative of the U.S.

There is an adage that says, with age comes wisdom. I’ve achieved the one part but keep waiting for the second part to kick in. At my age, there are so many things that I still don’t know. I made it through high school and college and even taught school for well over 40 years if you include subbing. So, you would think that by now I would have a pretty good handle on most things. But there are still things I haven’t figured out.

Recent events in our region and across the country have reminded us of the importance of community and school safety. In moments like these, we are especially grateful for the first responders who stand ready to serve in the most difficult situations. Their training, professionalism, and willingness to do challenging work provide an essential layer of safety for all of us.

Byron’s school board held its annual organizational meeting last week, electing every officer except the vice chair.
David Wernimont was elected board chair, Carrie Delaney the clerk and Jeremy Aagard the treasurer for 2026. The vote for vice chair ended in a 3-3 tie between Lisa Jessen and Kelli Crary, with Wernimont not in attendance. The board will vote again at their Jan. 20 meeting.

Triton school board members took action Monday night to address the district’s financial situation with a plan to take its fund balance from negative to positive numbers.

Dodge County Commissioners voted 4-1 on Tuesday to move forward with having a full-time County Attorney beginning in 2027.
Commissioner John Allen voted against the resolution.
County Attorney Paul Kiltinen, who has suggested the move in the past, brought it forward again at the December Committee of the Whole meeting, prior to the full board session.

Students in Byron and Kasson-Mantorville walked out of classes Tuesday to protest the activities of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) in Minnesota and throughout the nation.
The Byron protest was organized by Jay, a senior at the high school who did not want their last name revealed.
“I heard about what happened to Renee Good,” Jay said, “and was frustrated by what ICE is doing.”