2014: A year in review

Powerful June storms, topsy-turvy elections and a streak of frigid February weather were only a few top stories that graced the front pages of the Hampton Chronicle in 2014. Some of those events had a larger community-wide impact than others, but each one left a lasting impression on Franklin County in one way or another.

     What follows are the top news stories of 2014 compiled by the Chronicle news staff. We opted to forego ranking them this year, instead leaving that option up to our readers. Feel free to debate these picks and arrange them as you see fit. 2014 was a memorable year, and we look forward to seeing what 2015 has in store.

Happy New Year from the Hampton Chronicle!

Elections

       Franklin County residents had two chances to vote in 2014 during the June primary and November general election. Competition on the local ballot was fleeting, but a few contested races greeted voters when they hit the polls during both elections.

     Three spots were up for grabs on the Republican primary ballot in Franklin County. Gary McVicker challenged three-term District II Supervisor Jerry Plagge, while Cindy Dirksen opposed two-term Treasurer Chad Murray. Former Hampton mayor Shawn Dietz faced former Butler County sheriff Tim Junker for the party’s nod in the Iowa Senate District 27 race to round out the ballot.

    Read the full article in the Dec. 31 edition of the Hampton Chronicle.