I had the privilege of covering everything from gritty SICL (Sigourney, Keota, English Valleys and Tri-County) and SEISC (Pekin) matchups to postseason excitement, always trying to match the energy and pride the community brought every game night. That dedication paid off — the News-Review earned recognition from the Iowa Newspaper Association, including first place for Best Use of Graphics (mini football helmets), second for Best Sports Section and Headline Writing, and third for Best Use of Social Media.

From there, I moved west to be the sportswriter at the Creston News Advertiser, a daily where I had the opportunity to cover more schools, a community college and Iowa State football.

I covered the 2021 Cheez-It Bowl both with a photo gallery page and a feature on two Creston Community School District alumns who were members of the ISUCF'V'MB. I was honored to be awarded second place for both Best Breaking News Photo and Best Sports Photo by the INA.

Additionally, during the past two years (2023 and 2024), photos captured by me have been displayed at the Iowa State Fair.

Now back in Ames, I’m excited to be contributing to the Ames Voice — a publication committed to serious, community-driven reporting. Local journalism is where my heart is, and I’m thrilled to help cover the activities that make this city more than just a place on the map.

Thanks for reading — and for continuing to support journalism that puts community first.

Jared Larson | Staff Reporter & Photographer
[email protected]

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Now, time for this week’s news!

Top Story

Traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial comes to Nevada

by Kyle Werner | Published on August 5, 2025

A traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial will be making a stop in Nevada on Thursday.

The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., makes its way across the country every year to honor local veterans, and its next stop will be in Nevada.

The exhibit is put on by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and sponsored by local organizations.

“Nevada is honored to provide the opportunity for Iowans to visit the replica Vietnam Veterans Memorial,” said Emily Shaack, the executive director of Main Street Nevada.

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