Steve Ortman

1 month ago | telegraphherald.com | Steve Ortman

On Sunday morning, Feb. 9, I rose from the ashes of a wild night feeling like a zombie. Actually, scratch that. A zombie that’d been run over by a freight train. For on my 40th birthday, I reunited with my longtime friends from Elkader, Iowa, to celebrate my milestone accomplishment. I made it to 40! That’s nothing to take for granted these days. It was a superb weekend where I felt a lot of love. Was it too much love? I hope not. I’d like to think I’m a pretty thoughtful individual.

Jan 17, 2025 | telegraphherald.com | Steve Ortman

I took my first step on the creaking wooden stairs for my journey into the dark abyss. With each step, the screaming wood only gets louder. The darkness only darker as I inch my way closer to the light string, hanging from what feels like miles away at the top of the ceiling. As I cautiously moved further down, the stairs made more cries for help as if they were about to split in two, almost acting as a warning to turn around and go back. There’s nothing down here for you, young Steven.

Nov 21, 2024 | telegraphherald.com | Steve Ortman

I don’t know about you readers, but I’m getting tired of the Dallas Cowboys disappointing America on Thanksgiving day. I’m all about traditions, don’t get me wrong, but I wouldn’t mind a little fresh blood during the iconic Thanksgiving slate of National Football League action. But just as sure as your Thanksgiving rolls will be buttered, the Cowboys and Detroit Lions will be taking the field that day.

Oct 24, 2024 | telegraphherald.com | Steve Ortman

Hey there. ’Member me? It’s been awhile. But after a 4½ month break, it feels great to be back musing about my wacky upbringing in picturesque small town Elkader, Iowa. I have been busy after all. My career has taken me on a different journey away from the Telegraph Herald, as I’ve spent recent months cannonballing off the high dive and into the world of insurance at Ludovissy and Associates.

May 30, 2024 | telegraphherald.com | Steve Ortman

Ah, springtime. It’s one of my favorite times of year. The warming temperatures. The blooming flowers. Those spring walks with the family. Bike rides with friends. The NCAA tournament. The NFL Draft. WrestleMania. School is almost out and summer is on the horizon. And on those rainy spring days, indoor recess during elementary school. While growing up in Elkader, Iowa, in the 1990s, the fourth- through sixth-graders traveled to tiny Volga, Iowa, for their schooling each day.