Opinions
We just ended the fifteenth week of the legislative session, and Tuesday marked the 100th day and the scheduled final day of the legislative session. As predicted and with important work still to be completed, we will be heading into overtime.
This week, a few notable bills that were passed...
Another week, a few more bills, and we are still not ready to sine die. It has been a lot of “hurry up and wait,” but we have debated a handful of bills and passed them off the floor and over to the Senate.
Discussions continue on Property tax reform, the focus in on working through the details,...
I have been having fun with a new hobby: making my own spice blends to cook with. Being able to control the amount of salt, spice, heat etc. makes a lot of sense and after you buy bulk amounts of the main ingredients it’s simple to toss a batch of steak seasoning, barbeque rub or pulled pork blend...
Seeking veterans and helpers to lead parade
With the 4th of July approaching quickly, and as our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, our committee has selected a very special group to serve as the 2026 Grand Marshals. We are proud to honor all veterans, active-duty military members,...
Echoes from the Loafers’ Club Meeting
Did you notice the notice?
I noticed the notice.
Did you notice it wasn’t worth noticing?
I noticed.
Driving by Bruce’s drive
I have a wonderful neighbor named Bruce. Whenever I pass his drive, thoughts occur to me. Spring brings high school...
Dear Savvy Senior,
I want to leave something meaningful for my children and grandchildren, beyond just money or property. I’ve heard about “legacy letters,” but I don’t really know what they are or how to start one. Can you help?
--Legacy Seeker
Dear Seeker,
You’re asking a wonderful question. A...
This week, the House advanced a property tax reform bill with bipartisan support (64-23). Many of you have been following these discussions closely, and while this marks a key step forward, there is still work to be done as we continue working with the Senate to reach meaningful, long-term reform...
Spring in North Iowa is my favorite season (although many others favor the harvest time). Reconnect 720 is also one of my favs because so much time and effort go into planning activities, events or simply conversations that are pleasing to men and women over age 60. It’s a good time and place to be...
WOW! I have hit the mother lode of cookbook collecting. A few days ago a friend let me borrow two really old newsletters titled Best of the Open Line that were “created monthly as a public service to it’s listeners by WMT, Cedar Rapids, Iowa” That’s the statement on the front page and the WMT radio...
Echoes from the Loafers’ Club Meeting
My doctor told me to eat more jelly doughnuts.
Are you sure the doctor told you to do that?
Well, he said, “Cut back on the ice cream,” but I knew what he meant.
Driving by Bruce’s drive
I have a wonderful neighbor named Bruce. Whenever I pass his drive,...