Opinion

Grassley's county office hours are important for senator, constituents

Letters to Editor June 11, 2023

Dear Editor, I represent U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley in 21 counties across central and south central Iowa. Part of my job is to hold annual open meetings in each county to listen and take opinions about the issues of the day and help Iowans with personal issues and requests. This can range from getting a milestone birthday greeting from Senator Grassley or the President of the United States, a flag flown over the Capitol, Capitol tours or helping with federal agencies. Examples of assistance with federal agencies would be aiding in Social Security, the VA, the IRS, USDA, the ...

COUNTRY ROADS: Lessons from a soybean field

Local Columns June 11, 2023

If you use the term “walking beans” today, a lot of younger people may need an explanation. Back in the 60s, however, many Midwest teenagers earned money each summer by pulling and chopping weeds from soybean fields for area farmers. “Bean walking” or “walking beans” we called it ...

Local Columns June 6, 2023

This is my ninth week writing about “Our Neighborhood,” the area in Webster City that I am so pleased to now call home. I’ve written, so far, about some of the former residents of this fine city; people I’m happy to have as neighbors, of a sort. The home my wife and I purchased in ...

“Power plus greed equals corruption”

Letters to Editor June 6, 2023

Dear Editor, When did it become a bad thing for someone, say the state auditor, to expose corruption? It kind of makes you wonder if someone’s got something to hide. I guess enforcing the law is not in vogue anymore. It’s just another example of the erosion of our democracy. Is there anyone, and I mean anyone, besides me worried when our elected officials act out like they’ve done? If corruption is okay, then what’s next? I’m no mathematician, but to me, power plus greed equals corruption. Let’s hope the election comes soon enough. Vote for Democracy. Dave ...

COUNTRY ROADS: Funerals and their value to the grieving

Local Columns June 4, 2023

Over the years, I have developed a discomfort with funerals. But, at the same time, I understand their value. I was honored recently to be asked to participate in a memorial service for a childhood friend. This service was of great value. Jack passed away in a New England state in ...

LIGER'S DEN: Tyler’s favorite teams of all-time? There’s plenty.

Local Columns June 1, 2023

When people talk about their favorite teams of all time, it’s usually the best team to come from their high school, the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, the University of Northern Iowa or their favorite professional sports franchise. Just about everyone I know loves the 1996 ...