The Clinton Herald, Clinton, Iowa

Mornings start much earlier with baby chicks
My baby chicks have become an integral part of my life these past two weeks. I now have a few chores to do before I head off to work in the morning.
Make expectations clear when hiring new administrator
On the heels of last week’s acceptance of City Administrator Gary Boden’s departure, it’s safe to say it appears there has been turmoil behind the scenes at Clinton City Hall.
Shooting spurs questions about communication
Stunned.
That’s all I could muster Wednesday morning when hearing about Aplington-Parkersburg coach Ed Thomas’ untimely death.
Firefighters did a great job
When a fire broke out at Fulton Elementary School last week, there was no doubt that it was a scary situation.
Sometimes pushing yourself too hard can be dangerous
I live to work and play hard. I like pushing myself to the limit physically when it comes to running.
Dr. Mona: Many tips for relief
DEAR DR. MONA: I am troubled by constipation which does not seem to be relieved except with a laxative.
Library volunteers serve the community
People who live in Clinton realize that one of the key features of living here is that Clinton is a good place to raise a family.
There is still an economic chill in the air
A recent morning drive took me by Riverview Swimming Pool. It reminded me of swim lessons many years ago.
Federal stimulus dollars go to local roads
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 could not have come at a more crucial time for Iowa’s aging transportation infrastructure, which is in desperate need of investment.
Bring on the baby chicks
In my wildest dreams, I could have never dreamt anything cooler than seeing my baby chicks for the first time.
A 68% increase? You’ve got to be kidding
‘Realty’ TV needs a good dose of common sense
Earlier this week, my co-worker Angie Bicker wrote about reality TV shows. I would have to agree with her assessment; giving up on the genre would probably be best.
Instant reality television stardom not worth trouble
I can’t help but feel sorry for Susan Boyle, the instant YouTube sensation from “Britain’s Got Talent.” She dazzled the world when she sang “I Dreamed a Dream” from “Les Miserables.”
Survey gives picture of global economy over next few years
A recent survey of economists requested a forecast for the U.S. economy.
Not-so-forgotten people enter lives daily
At different times in our lives, we meet people who, for whatever reason, we never forget.
Headline leads staffer down memory lane
The headline on (Angie Bicker’s) column took my breath away. You see, the Clinton Herald had given me my first job straight out of college.
Chicken coop construction nears completion
Well, here we are again back at the chicken ranch. My construction crew and I are still working hard on my baby chicks’ condo.
No links to tattoos causing problems with epidurals
DEAR DR. MONA: I’m pregnant, due very soon. I’d like to have an epidural for the pain but have been told that, since I have a tattoo on my lower back, it may not be possible.
Take time to make decision on dog ownership
I love dogs. Any time I’m around one I have to pet it and say, “Hi puppy,” in a high-pitched voice.
Turn back the clock to Camp Granada
Does the name Allan Sherman mean anything to you? Well, if his name doesn’t ring a bell, I bet his lyrics will.
‘Baby steps’ mark improvements since erratic fall
As of this writing, the stock market has moved up sharply since its lows of early March. Credit product spreads have improved since last fall.
Growing up introduces new aspirations
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Why spend money on ‘wants’ rather than ‘needs?’
Two weeks ago, the city of Clinton announced plans to take on a city street project of unprecedented size and scope.
Difficult decisions highlight Legislature session
Because of the deepening national recession, this was a year of tough decisions.
Installation of the condo is off and running
Since I wrote my column last week, construction on my chicken house has really taken off. Now, my chicken condo is more than just framing — it has walls, a roof, a window and a door.
Legislature adjourns with downsized budget
The 2009 Legislative session came to a close as the final details of the state budget were adopted.
Reliving Mavs obsession during playoff run
It’s been a long time since I’ve lived in Dallas, but I still get excited when the Mavericks are in the NBA playoffs.
Weekend construction leads to chicken condo
I have learned two facts about myself during the past few days. One, I am pretty handy and two, I can hammer in a nail.
Pregnant women should guard against flu
My pregnant patients have been asking, “If I get the flu will it hurt the baby?”
Proper planning keys airline travel
Earlier this week I prepared for an airline flight out of Moline, Ill. Over the years I’ve been on quite a few flights, but all within the United States. I’ve flown to visit my grandparents mostly, on trips to Michigan and Florida.
Learning the ropes of baby chick raising
On Saturday, I found out that I am going to be a mother. Well, to 25 baby chicks. After seven years of waiting, I am finally going to raise chickens.
Are we there yet?
The summer vacation season is almost upon us.
What comes to mind are long car trips with younger passengers aboard.
Legislative session draws to a close
As the legislature draws to a conclusion, issues seem to gain in importance and partisan politics seems to jump out of the woodwork.
There are plenty of things to do when the weather warms
I love summer, it’s my favorite season. As soon as the weather starts warming up, all I want is to be outside.
Be careful not to judge a book by its cover
Looks are not everything. Susan Boyle, a “Britain’s Got Talent” contestant and You Tube sensation, proved that to the world recently.
Dr. Mona addresses pregnancy concerns
DEAR DR. MONA: I would like to get pregnant but I am concerned because I had an ectopic pregnancy a year ago.
Clinton Regional Development Corporation’s history discussed
In these turbulent economic times, it’s comforting to know that the Clinton region is not only surviving, but in many ways thriving, during this period we have only recently begun calling a recession.
Angie, dog go on field trip to basement
Last night, my dog went on a field trip. She entered the dark, mysterious shadows of my basement.
There’s comfort to be found in children’s movies
I love watching kids’ movies. They’re fun, imaginative and transport you to places you’ve never been.
Spring brings new life to garden
Spring is a time for new life. The dawning of warmer days brings plants to life from their winter slumber. My iris and tulips, which are coming up in my yard, are perfect examples that winter’s grip on the landscape is loosening.
Easter and the Christian faith
Holy Week marks the highpoint of the year for the Christian faith. The week culminates with Easter, the day in which Christians commemorate the resurrection of Jesus. No other event in the life of Jesus Christ has greater significance, as Jesus Himself indicated.
Writer wants fresh dining experience with a side of cheer
Most people that know me know I’m not entirely satisfied with the dining options in Clinton. While there are some really good restaurants in town, we could add a few.
End of a television era approaches Thursday
Thursday marks the end of a TV era. The doors of County General’s emergency room will close for the last time.
Painful condition affects about 5 million women
DEAR DR. MONA: This is pretty embarrassing but around the time of my period I have a burning sensation and need to go to the bathroom all the time.
Lessons learned — part II
It has been said that two emotions drive markets: Greed and fear.
We all have a tendency to project our current situation into the future.
CCC celebrates Community College Month
April is community college month. Once again, Clinton Community College will be celebrating our many connections throughout the communities we serve. We invite you to celebrate with us and share your connections to Clinton Community College.
Rickertsen bids a fond farewell
Leaving a job you love is not easy.
Budget takes center stage
Last week, the Revenue Estimating Conference (REC) reduced our revenue estimates. Although it was expected, the estimates are just the latest evidence that middle-class Iowa families, employers and state revenues are continuing to feel the pinch of the deepening national recession.
Rave reviews lead to ‘Twilight’ addiction
I love to read. It’s one of my favorite pastimes. I love climbing into bed with a good book and reading until I fall asleep.
Old habit creeps back when running against the wind
If you haven’t noticed it has been a little windy outside lately. Windy days are one of my pet peeves, unfortunately there isn’t much I can do about them.
Tightening the state’s budget belt in troubled times
We continue to adjust state spending and boost job-creation efforts in response to the deepening national recession.
Equal work means equal pay
In Iowa, women make 78 cents for every dollar made by men for the same work. Our state ranks 37th among all states for gender wage equity.
Programs to feel pinch during budget workshops
The legislature is just completing the 10th week of session and work is just starting on the budget for next year.
What I learned from the tomato lady
When people ask me where I’m from, I have a hard time answering. When you’ve lived in four states and about six cities, it’s hard to say for sure.
Doctor gives advice on getting your Zzzz
Dear Dr Mona: I’m having trouble sleeping because I work the third shift. I’m also gaining weight and my family is not able to deal with me, or actually I am not able to tolerate them. What can I do, or do you have any advice? — Rashanda
Love of dogs doesn’t translate into love of being chased
I love dogs. However, I don’t like being chased by ones I don’t know and that has been happening a lot lately.
Lessons learned should guide us on what not to do
We have all read the headlines that the current financial problems are the worst since the Great Depression.
More on writing: Tips for getting started
After my Feb. 27 column on writing, I’ve gotten a lot of feedback from people who say they want to start writing, but haven’t yet. It is difficult to simply sit down and write if you haven’t ever written, or haven’t written in a long time.
During her daily run, Angie remembers Harold
When I go running I always say hello to an old friend of mine. Unfortunately, he can’t talk back. I pass his grave every time I am on the last leg of my journey. I smile and say “Hi Harold.”
Transportation, infrastructure, capitals detailed
Notice, simply complaining about poor decision making processes at the Capitol is easy and often politicians are able to sustain lengthy careers by mastering that art.
Destination Chicago: Second city’s hot spots profiled
This past weekend I spent in Chicago visiting my best friend, Brandi. Even after living in the city for the past four years, I still can’t get enough of Chicago’s charisma and air of excitement.
Investing in our children’s future
Recently I had the opportunity to meet with the joint Senate/House Education Appropriations subcommittee in Des Moines to advocate for continued state funding for afterschool programs.
The facts about cancer of the vulva
Dear Dr. Mona: For weeks, I have been having itching and seem to have a painful growth on the outside of my private area. What can I do? — Ellie
Reality shows fuel late-night TV fix
Reality shows are everywhere. There is at least one on every network. If you haven’t seen a reality show then you must be living in a bubble.
Lending is dependent on stable, and higher, asset values
Ideas, good or bad, have many parents.
Leaving a legacy: Write for those who follow
Writing. For some people it sounds like a chore, while others love it. For some it comes naturally, while others have to struggle at it for hours.
Fire facilities referendum passage a must for Clinton
Clinton voters have a big decision to make Tuesday.
Angie gives how-to lessons on being a redneck runner
I get a lot weird looks when I go running in the winter. Most people don’t think of running when it’s 20 degrees outside or having their entire body blanketed with a light layer of new fallen snow.
Ask the doctor: Spotting could be a sign of cancer
Judy, not her real name, was a 39 year-old who did not know the other 60 year-old woman named Delores. They had almost everything in common, including a female cancer that eventually stole the life away from one of them.
Home buyers can put Stimulus Bill to work
CLINTON — The “American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009,” which is commonly referred to as the Stimulus Bill, recently passed by Congress and signed by President Obama on Feb. 17, provides some significant incentives and benefits for home buyers and current home owners.
Some ways to save
Last week, I mentioned some of the problems with wasteful internal spending by the Rebuild Iowa Office. On Monday, Gov. Culver addressed this same issue and criticized the excessive salaries at the office and stated corrections will be made.
Growing middle class strengthens Iowa’s economy
In the face of the ongoing national recession, we must put a higher priority on strengthening and growing Iowa’s middle-class families.
Postseason hardwood action heats up for area teams
Well, here we are headlong into postseason basketball and the stakes are getting higher.
Natural Resources Constitutional amendment advances
Both the House and Senate passed House Joint Resolution 1 this week to add an amendment to Iowa’s constitution to protect natural resources and outdoor recreation funding.
Take medicine to improve thyroid
DEAR DR. MONA: My family doctor tells me that I need medicine to help my thyroid. I would rather not take more medicine. Are there any foods that would help? — Andrea
Students must stay in school through age 17
The House Education Committee approved House File 40 that will require students to remain in school through age 17.
Area teams hoping to make deep postseason runs
Here we are, almost three months since the start of the winter sports season and my how the time has flown.
Help for the state’s middle class
It’s tax time again, but there is good news for hard-working, middle class families.
City officials make trip to Washington
In late January, Public Works Director Gary Schellhorn, City Attorney Paul Walter and I traveled to Washington, D.C., for the purpose of meeting with our Senators and Congressmen to discuss the Waste Water Treatment Plant and Combined Sewer Overflows situation.
Legislators wrestling with budget woes
Leadership in the legislature from both parties are questioning if Governor Culver’s 6.5 percent across-the-board cut will be sufficient to balance the state budget.
Our investment in renewable energy pays off
Ensuring that Iowa remains a leader in renewable energy is a centerpiece of our bipartisan efforts in the Legislature.
Clinton’s most memorable moments detailed
This is an unusual column, but it may put dates of Clinton history into better perspective. The Bickelhaupt Arboretum has a project, headed by Ralph Sanford, to put 15 to 20 events onto a cross-section of a tree that grew (in Bill Rathje’s yard) in Clinton between 1898 and 1998.
Support your local businesses
Each year at Christmas time, we urge our readers to shop local as they get ready for the gift-giving season.
Don’t let the aging process take hold of you
DEAR DR. MONA: I’m 45 and am falling apart! I have increased blood pressure and a “tire” around my middle that I can’t get rid of. My friends are saying “welcome to menopause!” Is that true? Do I have to accept weight gain as a fact of life? — Chris
It’s about location
A library at the Harding site would be in a peaceful environment in an attractive setting that will appeal to people of all ages.
When LEIs stop declining, recovery is on the horizon
With apologies to our 16th President and President Obama’s affinity for him, four score and $700 billion ago, Washington considers a fiscal stimulus program.
Worsening national recession requires more
In this deepening national recession, Republican and Democratic legislators are working with Governor Chet Culver and Lt. Governor Patty Judge to write a fiscally responsible state budget.
Help is within reach for smokers
More Iowans than ever are quitting smoking, and new approaches continue to emerge. From support services to over the counter medications, to prescription drugs, people now have a variety of tools to help them overcome their addiction to tobacco.
Hypertension: A worldwide epidemic
Hypertension is a major public health problem in the U.S. and worldwide. More than a quarter of world’s adult population totaling one billion, have it.
Legislator expects another state-mandated budget cut
The second week of the legislature proceeded slowly.
We did not convene on Monday in recognition of the Martin Luther King holiday.
Now is the time to speak up about school district budget
We have been down this road before. Whenever the first of the year rolls around, the Clinton School District once again has to work toward putting together a budget that has to be certified by mid-April for the upcoming fiscal year.
Remember New Hope in your prayers
There are times in life when a devastating setback occurs, illness, injuries and accidents among them. If a roster of such setbacks is compiled, it would no doubt include the devastation caused by a fire.
Mentoring is a movement with a role for everyone
Generally, when I meet people and tell them I head the local Big Brothers Big Sisters agency, I get one of two reactions.
“I’ve always thought about being a Big Brother (or Big Sister), but I’m way too busy.”
Osteoporosis not a disease destined for elderly anymore
DEAR DR. MONA: My older sister has been recently told that she has severe osteoporosis in her spine causing her to become shorter. I am 45 and exercise regularly.
State needs to live within its means
Iowa’s 83rd General Assembly gaveled in on Jan. 12.
As history is being made, let us move forward as one
We are witnesses to history being made.
Yes, that’s true whenever Inauguration Day rolls around.
Give blood to help pump up supplies
Have you or someone close to you ever needed blood? Maybe it was because of an accident. Or maybe it was after a surgical procedure.
Rebuild Iowa, economic security top my 2009 agenda
During the 2009 session, I’ll focus on strengthening Iowa’s economy and helping Iowans rebuild their communities after last summer’s floods and tornadoes.
New Bridges has arrived
Wondering when our next edition of Bridges will arrive? We’re happy to report that it is here.
Mortgage Application 101
Whether you are buying a home or refinancing an existing home loan, there are a few things you can do to ensure a smooth loan application process and a solid loan approval.
Leaders must find a way to fix health care system
Our new president and Congress will face many competing priorities in 2009. With the economy certain to take center stage, it’s important to remember that health care reform is a necessary step to getting our economy back on track.
Discuss intimacy problems with a doctor
DEAR DR. MONA: My intimacy with my husband is gone. Pain and dryness stop us in our tracks, and I am only 61! Is there anything we can do? — Audrey
New year is a time for resolutions and retrospection
Several historic events mark 2008 as special. The Federal Reserve demonstrated the implications of “lender of last resort.”
YM/YW leadership answers questions posed by residents
We are extremely excited to officially begin our “Clinton YMCA-YWCA” joint venture in January!
Ask the doctor: New surgery yields better results
QUESTION: Three years ago I had surgery to repair a bulging rectum into my vagina which was causing me to have difficulty in passing my stools.
Can Rhoads take Cyclones to the promised land?
We’re a little less than a week removed since Iowa State hired Paul Rhoads as its next head football coach, and the state still doesn’t know much about the little-known coordinator from Ankeny.
Merry Christmas from our forbearers
These are tough times for many, but our ancestors from across the seas had even harsher winters than did our parents from the Great Depression.
Bladder problems may not be a natural aging process
DEAR DR. MONA: I’ve been told that leaking urine is a fact of life as I age. Since it is not going to kill me, it is OK, I guess, but I really am not accepting this gracefully. Can you help? — Marian
Time to reform high-interest payday loans
Despite tough times, Iowans want to do the best for their families. You can start the New Year right by avoiding debt this holiday season, particularly high-interest payday loans that may charge more than 360 percent interest.
Chizik hiring is a no-win situation for everybody
I know what you Cyclone fans are thinking. “I wonder what that Hawkeye-loving, Iowa State-loathing blowhard has to say about the Gene Chizik situation.”
Increase plan must be put in place
So, the Clinton City Council has us scratching our heads. In a vote last week, the council failed a motion that would phase in a sewer cost increase.
Ask the doctor: Uterus pain may not lead to scar
QUESTION: I’m 42 years old and I have a very large uterus causing pain in my lower belly. It’s putting a lot of pressure on both my kidney’s drainage tubes.
Bubbles — and their breakage — can teach us
Only eight years after the last big financial crisis, the dot.com boom, we are in the midst of another, a global debt and housing bubble.
Cy-Hawk basketball battle loses its luster
In case you haven’t heard, Iowa and Iowa State will finish their wrestling and basketball showdown tonight in front of probably half the amount of people who watched last weekend’s wrestling meet.
Summer in the 1930s
It was the Depression, and even though all one might have in their pocket was a coin or two, the sky was still blue and the wind warm as teenagers enjoyed friends, swimming and summer activities.
Commitment to student achievement pays off
Iowa students are doing better now than five years ago in several academic categories, according to the latest “Condition on Education in Iowa” report.
Clinton stores create great shopping experience
It’s only 15 days until Christmas.
Molar pregnancy occurs in oldest, youngest women
DEAR DR. MONA: What is a molar pregnancy, and should I be worried about this? I am trying to get pregnant and one of my friends had this and I am scared. Could you explain? — Bobbie
Spirit of giving encouraged at area events
Want to help out your neighbors and have some fun at the same time?
Voters deserve big pat on back for revenue purpose statement approval
Today we are sending out a big thank you to Clinton School District voters.
Historic Downtown Clinton — 1968
It seems like yesterday that Clinton had 35,000 people and our downtown area was booming.
Levine’s laundry list of complaints
I’m going to try something different. Anyone can give a solid list of what they’re thankful for during this holiday season, but not many are bold enough to share what they’re not thankful for (generally those people share that information every other day of the year).
Freezing eggs proves to be quite difficult
DEAR DR. MONA: My sister has cancer and does not yet have any children. We have heard that some women have their eggs frozen for future use. What do you think about this process and where can she have this done? — Amy
Help the Victory Center help others this holiday
It’s Thanksgiving Week and our thoughts are turning toward sitting down at the table with our families. A turkey is on the table as are all the trimmings.
Levine laments preseason expectations of Vikings
How bad is the NFC North? The division is so bad, I heard a rumor yesterday that Iowa State was thinking of joining it for a possible break from playing Big 12 teams, and possibly picking up a win against those stellar Lions who still think Barry Sanders is walking through that door soon.
Ask the Doctor tackles long-term surgical success
QUESTION: My womb and bladder have been hanging out a good three inches for the past year and I've been getting a lot of bladder infections.
School district needs support during this trying time
High school life is full of up and downs. There are times of great joy: proms, dances, achievements and awards.
Be aware of the deer
If you’ve ever driven on an open country road in the fall during nighttime hours, you know exactly what we mean when we say it’s that time of year again.
Hawkeyes may be a year away from greatness
Last Saturday, on a cold and blustery day inside Kinnick Stadium, the Iowa Hawkeyes did what few thought they could do. They won despite themselves. Against No. 3 ranked and previously unbeaten Penn State no less.
Dr. Mona gives opinion about augmentation
Dear Dr. Mona: I have very small breasts and this has always bothered me. I would like to have something done but I’m worried about breast cancer. Also, my friends are scaring me!
Quarterly magazine available at Herald
Bridges is back! Our third edition of Bridges magazine has arrived and is available at the Clinton Herald’s front desk.
Thank you for letting me serve
On Election Day, Iowa continued to demonstrate how to successfully run efficient, high-turnout elections. Innovations that Iowans helped pioneer, such as early voting, were used nationwide by voters who were determined to be heard.
Great fall sports season wraps up for area athletes
It seems like only yesterday that August started and everyone started preparing for the fall season. With the exception of the Morrison High School football team, area teams are setting its sights on the winter season. The area experienced all-time highs in the fall and some disappointments toward the end of the season.
We hope any transition is a smooth one
Change. It’s something that can sometimes be very hard to embrace. Yet at the same time, it’s something that will continue to happen in both good and bad times.
Fulton’s planned museum shows hard work pays off
Ever since the de Immigrant windmill, located across the Mississippi River in Fulton, Ill., has been opened to visitors, it’s been toured by people from all over the world.
Support the Showboat to keep theater
She was built in 1935 and named The Omar. She was created as a working boat, a two-deck tug for the Ohio River Company.
This donation will provide comfort at a critical time
Losing a family member is a painful experience. And losing a young member of a family in a tragic accident adds its own kind of pain to the mix.
Good luck in your new job, Dave
Everybody goes through a life change from time to time. For Dave Frett, that change is in the form of a new job with the Human Resources Department at Mercy Medical Center in Clinton. And with that, Frett has departed the Gateway Area Chapter of the American Red Cross, where he was executive director for 81/2 years.
Here’s a way to help the children
Looking for a way to serve your community and have a positive effect on its children? Then an opportunity that is presenting itself could be just the thing.
Go to see the county fair
The fair is coming! The fair is coming! Over the next few weeks, that statement will ring true throughout our four-county coverage area.
Congratulations to this firefighter
Firefighters are a special lot. They give of themselves, 100 percent, working to make sure that area residents are safe from fire, that they know what to do in case one breaks out, and the specifics of saving life and property should one occur.
Sanction sends wrong message
Saturday will no doubt be a great day at Club 110 in Clinton. At 6 a.m. that day, the club is allowed to reopen following a 10-day sanction levied by the Clinton City Council following a fight at the bar on Main Avenue in April.
Investment brings hope to Carroll County
There’s been some good news in recent weeks at the former Savanna Army Depot. The Savanna-based company N-Ovation, Packer Engineering of Naperville, Ill., and Northern Illinois University held a presentation at the former Savanna Army Depot to announce a $1 million grant from the United States Department of Agriculture for research and development of homegrown electricity and nitrogen fertilizer.
Pay a visit to Riverboat Days this year
It’s here again. Only this time, organizers are reaching into the past to help create a better Riverboat Days for this year and those to come.
Welcome to our new superintendent
Today we want to use this space to mark the transition that is taking place within the Clinton School District.
Welcome to the new casino
It was done quietly, but the Wild Rose Casino & Resort opened its doors Friday, making it the first land-based casino in Iowa.
It is imperative we help those in need in wake of flooding
In the days and weeks following the flooding throughout northeast Iowa, we are seeing a call to help those communities, mostly in the form of relief supply collections.
Remember to honor our flag Saturday
Saturday, June 14, is Flag Day. We hope everyone displays the United States flag that day to honor this great country of ours.
Thanks to all those carrying on Jetter’s legacy
When he died in October 2006, 62-year-old Vince Jetter left behind a legacy that benefitted the entire Clinton community.
Get out and vote
Tomorrow is your chance to be heard. On that day, residents from across Clinton County will vote in the Iowa primary and will narrow down the field of candidates for the November General Election.
At least plan lets us see which streets are being fixed
Here’s a shocker — 85 percent of Clinton’s roads are a mess. That evaluation, given by Clinton’s city administrator to Clinton City Council members, is not a surprise.
A day to reflect
What do you plan to do this Memorial Day? For most it’s a day away from work — a time to spend with family and friends around the grill or on the water, the first real sign that summer is approaching.
About that superintendent position...
Searching for a superintendent is not an easy task and one that the Clinton School District has not had to do since 1996, when board members hired current superintendent Randy Clegg.
Thanks to those who serve on school boards
It’s not easy being a school board member. Your decisions impact students, staff members, district policy and taxpayer dollars — and because of the heavy subject matter — are closely scrutinized in the public eye.
Marina operator contract needs to be in place
We just don’t get it. How can it be that we are now entering the boating season and still do not have a marina operator contract in place?
Fill the Thomson prison, already
Here we go again. Once again, talk has surfaced among state officials that now is the time to fully open up the Thomson Correctional Center — that the time has come to shutter an older prison in the state and send those inmates to the new state-of-the-art facility along the Mississippi River.
Keeping SSA office open is the right thing to do
Congratulations to our honored nurses
With a major medical center located in Clinton, as well as several clinics, the Gateway area employs many people in the health care profession.
Check your alarms and the batteries inside
Last week and again today, the Clinton Herald published stories about the importance of having working smoke detectors in area homes.
Grants are welcome news
Monday was another great day for the city of Clinton. On Monday afternoon it was announced by U.S. Sen. Charles Grassley that Clinton is receiving $600,000 in Brownfields grant funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Take me out the ball game
Today is a special day for those who love their baseball and want to cheer on their local team: The Clinton LumberKings will open their season today at Alliant Energy Field against the Cedar Rapids Kernels.
We’re betting RBD will have a great year
If you’ve read today’s front page, you already know that Riverboat Days organizers have announced two more acts that will be performing at this year’s summer festival.
Leadership Institute’s project will have benefits for years
Over the past several years, the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Institute has undertaken a class project to improve the Gateway area.
Auxiliary’s hard work makes difference
Every year, the Mercy Auxiliary works hard to conduct fundraisers and collect money to improve the health care offered by Mercy Medical Center and strengthen the nursing program at Clinton Community College.
We applaud those working to make a change
It’s not easy to lose weight. It takes dedication, a change of habits, a lifelong commitment. But for many, it is something that needs to be done.
It could be for many reasons.
Building a foundation for reading
It’s a simple message that makes so much sense. Reading to babies and children is good for their brain development and intensifies the bond between the child and parent.
Court order was best way to end humane society controversy
It’s been more than a year since it became apparent that there has been quite a bit of discord between the Clinton Humane Society Board of Directors and some of the humane society’s membership.
Remember to give to Student Food Drive
Have you donated to the local Student Food Drive being conducted by Clinton and Lincoln high school students? If not, there is still time.
Welcome back, councilmen
There’s a lot of changes on the horizon for the city of Clinton.
Reader thanks Masons for hard work
ABATE riders make Christmas better for area kids
It’s that time of year again. The television commercials are starting to reflect a feeling of the holidays, Christmas decorations can be found in store aisles and pretty soon kids will be making out their wish lists.
Incentives are a great way to clean up neighborhoods
The Clinton City Council during the past few years has been discussing ways to get people to improve their homes in Clinton’s core area.
All agencies should get on board with this agreement
During the past few weeks, area school boards and the Clinton City Council have heard reports about a Safe Schools and Community Interagency Agreement, a special interagency agreement that would promote the safety and wellness of area students.
Hancock Fabrics building purchase makes sense
For at least two years, the future of the Clinton School District’s maintenance facility was up in the air — as in where it would be located.
Honoring the heroes
Every year since 2002, the Clinton Herald has published a special section in September known as Hometown Heroes as a way of honoring our local police, fire and rescue personnel.
EICCD vote will reap benefits for many years to come
Recently we had the chance to talk to an employment agency official and learned some very startling things about the area’s job climate.
Paint the Town volunteers did a great job
Saturday was a beautiful day in downtown Morrison, Ill. The skies were sunny, the temperatures, not too hot or too cold, and the streets were ready for painting.
Stop the hate
Hate. By nature it is an ugly word. Each year, local residents show how much they wish to eradicate it from our daily lives.
Read about what’s been happening the past year
Each year in September, the Clinton Herald publishes what is known as its Progress editions on four Saturdays of the month.
Go to Victory Center meeting to allay concerns
The Victory Center Rescue Mission has been feeding, clothing and assisting the homeless since 1987.
When it comes to kids on the streets, be careful out there
Soon children will be seen heading to and from school early in the morning and later each day. Some will be in buses and cars; others will be hoofing it on the streets.
Corn on the Corner was fun for all
Corn on the Corner lived up to its name. It was “corny.” It’s what small-town, Midwest America is all about. Neighbors meeting neighbors at a communitywide block party.
Get involved in National Night Out
Looking for a way to have fun, meet some neighbors and make some new friends?
Students complete monumental task
Oftentimes, unless it is an outstanding athletic or scholarly achievement, it’s easy to overlook the good that is being done by area students.
Helping from the heart
Imagine that you are living in a house that needs some work, but you are either physically or financially unable to get it done. It would be frustrating and in some cases unsafe to continue to live this way.
Six brothers deserve recognition
We have used this space recently to write about the impact that firefighters have on our communities — how they really are heroes among us.
Remember to thank a firefighter today
Whenever they are needed, they will go. If it’s the dead of winter, in the middle of the night, no matter the time, a firefighter will respond when the emergency call goes out.
SRO program is a great benefit
Since 1995, school resource officers have been patrolling Clinton school building halls, mentoring students, conducting investigations and taking care of truancy matters.
Come on out to the Juneteenth celebration
A very special event is taking place Tuesday along Clinton’s riverfront. On that day from noon to 8 p.m., residents will be able to take part in the city’s first Juneteenth celebration.
Monday was a good day for Clinton
Months of hard work culminated Monday when ground was broken for construction of the Wild Rose Casino on Clinton’s west end — the first land-based casino that will be built in the state.
Tenants need to get serious about renter’s insurance
The Gateway area has been hit hard by fires over the past few months.
This addition is good for dogs and their owners
Pets are wonderful to have. They provide comfort, unconditional love and keep us company. In return, they need food, water, checkups, shelter and a return of the love they give.
Kudos to Lions Club for its work
Recently two Camanche toddlers received a vision test provided in cooperation with local Lions clubs that is making a world of difference for them.
‘Old Glory’ will fly proudly
How many times have you seen a displayed flag in less than good condition? While you’re happy to see someone’s patriotism, you are sad that the flag is allowed to look tattered and dirty.
Time to move on local building code
It has happened. If you missed Monday’s Clinton Herald, “it” is the signature of Iowa Gov. Chet Culver on the bill that would place a building code in those cities with a population of more than 15,000 that do not already have a code in place.
Celebrate National Library Week
How well do you know your library? Next week is a good time to find out. Sunday marks the start of National Library Week and there are many events planned to get you involved at the Clinton Public Library.
It’s time to play ‘You Pick the Hero’
You know how you hear a story and wish it was true? This week, the Herald encountered just that three times over — leading us to scratch our heads as we decide which one to believe.
Get ready for severe weather
Did your workplace or school’s in-house tornado drill device sound this morning?
We’re proud to have our community college
Each year since 2003, Clinton Community College has celebrated April’s Community College Month — and we’re glad to be a part of it.

Popular business directory searches