Joseph Wore Tennis Shoes:
Stories From Small Town Journalism
"An entertaining mix of Eureka! moments, belly laughs, guffaws, colorful reportage, and a few 'You have got to be kidding me-s.' This collection may also have you grabbing a tissue or two. So, if one type of story doesn’t spin your fins, then turn the page. It’s a good bet the next one will.
"Stroll through yesteryear and present day-ish with this eloquent and articulate glimpse into small-town Americana and a time when Joseph wore tennis shoes and everybody knew your name. It’ll bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart." PagesAndPaws.com. See full review here.
"Joseph Wore Tennis Shoes is a captivating collection of stories from Dale Kovar’s 50-year career in small-town journalism, blending humor, controversy, and heartfelt moments while championing free speech and community storytelling. A must-read for those who love authentic, behind-the-scenes tales from the newsroom." – NewInBooks.com
“Dale Kovar brings a refreshing and straightforward use of language to convey simple truths. His thoughts gently probe and prod the reader’s own experiences to create new insights.” – Dr. Scott Jensen
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New Updated Cover
(Same Book)
Copies available at
WINSTED: Herald Journal
WATERTOWN: Hearthside Books
Order by phone at 320-485-2535
$18.63 (with tax = $20)
Take a peek at some sample pages here
Original Cover
Dale began writing a sports column for his hometown newspaper while he was in high school. After college and a newspaper-specific training course, he entered the field full-time and hasn’t left. He progressed through various roles of newspaper work, including 20 years as a minority owner. In January, Kovar was inducted into the Minnesota Newspaper Association's Half Century Club.
This book follows his career path and includes many reprints of his best writing, employing a variety of styles and spanning numerous topics. He tells of his highs and lows in the industry, with notes of lessons learned, and personal ties to people and places.
A fierce advocate for free speech, Kovar holds nothing back in criticizing the big media and government for their shortcomings. Throughout, his strong Christian faith is on display. Plus there are some just plain fun pieces as well.
From the top of a water tower to an upside down gymnast; from a day in kindergarten to a state political convention; from a six-overtime basketball game to an April Fool’s front page; from getting burned by a phony letter to the editor to an actual office fire. Then there's the Dead Editors Society, and more!
• See Herald Journal newspaper story