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What America means to me: North Iowa residents reflect on our nation's 250th birthday

From the America 250: Stories from Iowa's history and how they've shaped the country series

Globe Gazette
Jun 28, 2026
Jun 28, 2026 Updated Jul 13, 2026
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Fireworks can be seen from South Shore Drive as part of Clear Lake's annual Fourth of July celebration.

LISA GROUETTE, Globe Gazette

Fourth of July fireworks in Mason City on July 3, 2019.

People gather to watch a fireworks show over Clear Lake on a past Fourth of July.

LISA GROUETTE, Globe Gazette

The Vietnam Veterans of America ride in the Clear Lake Fourth of July parade.

Mary Pieper - Globe Gazette

Alicia Bruggeman of Garner watches the Clear Lake Fourth of July parade with her 7-month-old son, Kason.

MARY PIEPER

Around 100 decorated boats made their way along the shoreline as part of Clear Lake's Independence Day boat parade.

LISA GROUETTE, Globe Gazette

Former Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad sits on the shoulder of Iowa Highway 9 outside of Buffalo Center during the 36-mile tour of the stretch of road on Thursday.

ROBIN McCLELLAND, Globe Gazette

John Lee, a coach and teacher at Mason City High School, was elected mayor of Mason City on Tuesday night.

LISA GROUETTE, Globe Gazette

Mason City Mayor Bill Schickel poses with his wife, Candi, and his surprise proclamation dedicating his exemplary tenure.

ROBIN McCLELLAND, Globe Gazette

Sen. Amanda Ragan, D-Mason City.

Zachary Dupont Globe Gazette

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Globe Gazette

John Lee, mayor of Mason City

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In this Series

America 250: Stories from Iowa's history and how they've shaped the country

Updated Jul 13, 2026
AMERICA'S 250TH: A look back on 160-plus years of big news in The Journal
Updated Jul 13, 2026
Three early 20th century historical figures who called Sioux City home
Updated Jul 13, 2026
America 250: Siouxland went all out for nation's Bicentennial celebration
35 updates