Opinions
This week and next, we continue to be focused on moving bills through committee to keep them eligible for floor debate. February 19 is the cut off for policy bills to remain eligible this session.
HSB 696 – Welfare Reform
This bill strengthens the integrity and sustainability of Iowa’s public...
The title of this little (about 6” square) cookbooklet is “Betty Crocker’s Foods Men Like” (1970). In itself that isn’t unusual but the book contains only 26 recipes, organized according to the alphabet. In my world men like a lot more foods than that so these recipes must be cream of the crop!...
Year of the Fire Horse
The Lunar New Year, commonly referred to as the Chinese New Year, highlights Chinese astronomical animals and elements. With 12 signs and five elements, certain combinations only arrive once every 60 years. In 2026, celebrants will recognize the Fire Horse with celebrations...
Echoes from the Loafers’ Club Meeting
I have the memory of an elephant.
Really?
Yes, I remember seeing an elephant at a fair when I was nine years old.
Echoes from the Loafers’ Club Meeting too
Folklore said if a woman saw a robin flying overhead on Valentine’s Day, it meant she would marry a...
Dear Savvy Senior,
What are the rules regarding inherited IRAs? My brother and I recently inherited our father’s IRA when he passed away late last year and would like to know what we need to do to handle it properly.
Oldest Sibling
Dear Oldest,
I’m sorry to hear about the loss of your father,...
The winter sports seasons have almost wrapped up with postseason play about to begin. We want to remind you of the different ticketing setups for post season events. Whether we host a post season game or not, the IHSAA (boys sports) and IGHSAU (girls sports) do NOT accept cash or passes for...
This week, Iowa House Republicans introduced the Iowa Skilled Workforce Act (HSB 674) to close the gap between available jobs and the skilled workers needed to fill them. The bill creates a strategic partnership between the state, schools, and the trades to train the next generation of workers for...
Hello,
As funnel week approaches, the senate is considering proposals centered around the many issues in which Iowans have shown concern. It is very important legislation begins moving forward.
On Monday night, we had the Iowa caucuses, which are critical in the election process. Many of us...
Dear Savvy Senior,
What resources can you recommend for researching good places to retire in the U.S.? My husband and I are interested in relocating to a warmer climate when we retire next year.
Looking to Relocate
Dear Looking,
It’s exciting to think about relocating in retirement! Whether you’...
Echoes from the Loafers’ Club Meeting
My sister is a librarian. She hit me with a grammar book.
Did you get a concussion?
No, but I was in a comma for a week.
Driving by Bruce’s drive
I have a wonderful neighbor named Bruce. Whenever I pass his drive, thoughts occur to me. We’d been dodging...