The Clinton Herald, Clinton, Iowa

Early Valentine pitch
Last week, I described my fiancé’s comedic, albeit sincere, attempt at building a cat tower.
Railports could improve local job creation
Joe Jongewaard of the Iowa Department of Economic Development stopped by the Statehouse to talk with legislators about an I-JOBS proposal to increase local job opportunities around the state.
Check smoke detectors
Three generations of a Clinton family were laid to rest Saturday.
Leadership institute progresses through the year
Everything came full circle for me this week.
Passed House bills detailed by local congressmen
On Monday, the Iowa House passed unanimously HF 2075.
The Herald is bringing back two features
Do our readers really care what Lindsay Lohan or Britney Spears are up to?
Baking is Angie’s passion
I love to bake. That’s the truth right there in a nutshell.
Construction of ‘cat condo’ shows fiance’s true loyalty
This past weekend, I traveled to my hometown to go shopping for my wedding dress with my mom and sister.
Looking out for veterans
As Iowa veterans visited the State Capitol on Thursday, plans were announced to enact new protections for military families, and to continue the multi-year, multi-million dollar expansion of the Iowa Veterans Home.
Residents, pay attention to school district budget discussions
There are big changes proposed within the Clinton School District.
Change is coming to state government
A major initiative to reorganize Iowa’s state government for the first time in almost 25 years was approved Wednesday by the Senate’s State Government Committee.
Will this season cure the pain of being a Vikings fan?
Sunday marks a day I’ve been anticipating for almost a decade.
Legislature awaits budget proposal from governor
We are playing the waiting game on the state budget. Unfortunately, the governor did not include his proposed budget as part of his Condition of the State address.
Good deed helps editor recover from bad week
Did you ever have one of those weeks?
Chicken-raising momma surfaces in Florida
Since I first started writing about my girls and their crazy antics, I have heard from other chicken mommas from across the globe — to the far corners of the Earth where no chicken farmer has gone before.
Dr. Mona explains premature ovarian failure
Dear Dr. Mona: I am 30 years old and was on birth control pills after the delivery of my child who is now 11⁄2.
New foods for the new year
With 2010 in full swing, expect to see a variety of new foods in the grocery store.
New sports should be added to Olympics
As the days of January continue to pass, the spirit and excitement of the 2010 Winter Olympics are inching closer.
Less time means rushing important legislation
The Iowa General Assembly gaveled in at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 11.
New year brings something new to the table
New challenges exist every year, but I have a feeling 2010 will bring with it something I’ve never battled before.
Legislature works fast during session’s first week
The 2010 session of the Iowa Legislature convened Monday, Jan. 11, at the State Capitol in Des Moines.
Jobs, fiscal responsibility are main priorities
As soon as the 2010 session got under way this week, Republican and Democratic legislators got right down to work on balancing the next state budget.
Ames: If you build it, they will come
Last month I talked about the Lincolnway Railport and provided answers to many of the questions that have been posed regarding the potential, positive, economic impact of the project for our entire region.
Getting through a bad day
Bad days are inevitable; however, some are worse than others and only if you’re lucky one bad day can morph into the next day.
Ask the doctor: More surgery needed after failure
QUESTION: I had a hysterectomy and anterior and posterior repair done three months ago.
Future of text messaging may soon be upon us
Forgot milk? There should be a text for that.
Creating jobs, balancing the budget top priorities
The 2010 Legislative session began Monday and I wanted to share with you some of my priorities for this session.
Legislator wants citizens to keep in touch
The 2010 session of the Iowa Legislature convenes today.
Some teams able to handle adversity better than others
Watching Texas implode in the season’s final college football game Thursday made me appreciate the ability some teams possess in overcoming obstacles.
Cold weather brings new meaning to doing chores
When I headed out the door to do my chicken chores last night, dressed like an Eskimo, I started humming one of Cole Porter’s songs, “Too Darn Hot,” from his musical “Kiss Me Kate.”
Set achievable and realistic New Year solutions
As we begin a brand new year, everyone tells themselves they are going to make this year the healthiest by losing weight or becoming more physically active.
Men and women deal with depression in different ways
Dear Dr. Mona: I would like to understand why women always seem to be the ones complaining of depression. — Jerry
Keep the cold to yourself, Canada
I have a bone to pick with Canada. In addition to comics, good hockey players and funny accents, our neighbor to the north decides to inundate us with frigid air for about three months every year.
New year means new forecasts
The beginning of a new year brings forecasts, predictions and resolutions.
Remembering the moments of 2009
Welcome to 2010.
2009 packs itself with historic moments
This has been a monumental year from President Barack Obama’s historic inauguration starting off 2009 to the tragic death of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson.
26 years and counting, baby doll is still best gift
During this time of year, many of us are searching for that perfect Christmas gift for that special someone.
Constant problem leads to embarrassing situations
DEAR DR. MONA: I need help. I cannot stand and am so embarrassed about my problem. I cannot control passing gas and am now afraid to be around people because of it. Can you advise? — Betty
Budget focuses on small businesses, families
With the 2010 legislative session just around the corner, I’m keeping my focus on helping middle-class families and small businesses, creating good-paying jobs and balancing the state budget without raising taxes.
Christmas memories start with Nintendo
A few weeks ago, Lifestyles Editor Angie Bicker gave her top-10 list of Christmas movies.
Angie’s chickens now reach celebrity status
Since I started raising chickens in June, my girls have achieved celebrity status.
Snow days take on new meaning
Snow days aren’t near as much fun as what they were when I was younger.
No more business as usual at the Statehouse
I am now preparing for the next session, which officially begins Jan. 11.
Cozy up on the couch and get ready for Christmas
Several years ago, the Clinton Herald published a series every Monday called “On the Job.”
Many men, women feel pain from varicose veins
DEAR DR. MONA: My mother is 62 and has suffered from varicose veins for years.
Intruder reports — separating fact from fiction
It is a scary time in Clinton and the surrounding area.
Christmas not complete without John Denver, Muppets
It’s hard to believe the Christmas season is upon us. As I’ve grown older, the years seem to go by faster and faster.
Christmas not complete without John Denver, Muppets
It’s hard to believe the Christmas season is upon us. As I’ve grown older, the years seem to go by faster and faster. When I was a kid, I relished that, but now I would like to sit back and watch a few more crimson sunsets fade into the cornfields behind my home or catch a few more light and fluffy snowflakes on my tongue. I guess, in the end, we all get a little wiser too.
Black Friday takes unique twist
After filling my face full of turkey, mashed potatoes and football Thursday, I began to turn my focus toward the next holiday — Christmas.
Angie, chickens especially thankful today
Thanksgiving equals togetherness — being with the ones you love. Like most of you I will be sitting around the table tomorrow with my family enjoying a mouth-watering meal with all the trimmings along with a certain little sheltie’s head in my lap begging for some turkey.
Patient, doctor will still decide mammogram testing
DEAR DR. MONA: I am lost. What am I to make of the news that we don’t need mammograms each year? I just turned 40. — Melody
Report shows Iowa doing better than other states
The State of Iowa and many Iowans have experienced a rough year.
Good outweighs bad for area in prison debate
A town of about 600 people seems like an odd choice to put a zoo, but during the past week, the amount of media and government officials made Thomson, Ill., appear more like a mass of people ravaging for the next juicy story than a quiet, small western Illinois town.
Suspension leads to troubling sign for youth
When laying out today’s newspaper, I came across a story that bothered me.
Community support outstanding for food drive
Wow!!
We are only three days into our food drive to benefit the Victory Center’s Great Thanksgiving Banquet and we already are astounded at the community’s response to our request for food.
A grandfather’s bravery
Two dates are very important in my family tree. One is Oct. 29, 1942, and the other is June 27, 1945.
Cancer treatments force patient to freeze eggs
DEAR DR. MONA: My sister has cancer and does not have children. We have recently been talking about how she could freeze her eggs for future use.
Tough budgeting decisions will build a stronger Iowa
In spite of the best revenue estimates of state budget experts, Iowa is being hit harder than expected by the national recession.
Iowa Legislature honors veterans during session
Veteran’s Day is Nov. 11. As older Iowans remember, it was originally called Armistice Day and celebrated the end of World War I.
Good job, Kings!
It’s been quite a season. The performance of our Clinton High School River Kings football team has been magical over the past few weeks.
The people have spoken, or at least a minority of them
A drastic change occurred in Clinton on Tuesday.
Running, football deliver plenty of comebacks
I have been an Iowa Hawkeye fan since birth. I swear my booties must have been crocheted with black and gold yarn.
Iowans still feeling pains from economic downturn
There’s no doubt that Iowa and the rest of the country are facing tough times.
Local election counts on you to get out and vote
Tomorrow is the day.
From 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., residents will have the opportunity to head to the polls and choose which candidates they wish to have represent them.
Movies equal highlight of Halloween
Kids will take to the streets tonight symbolizing the beginning of the holiday season. Although tempted to join the candy consumption, I instead will provide the teeth-decaying items to trick-or-treaters.
Fall cleanup leads to scary sights
With winter rapidly approaching, my last two weekends have been consumed with yard work.
Community rallies behind River Kings success
Bad weather? Check.
Needing a comeback? Check.
National recession hits Iowa families, businesses, budget
While Iowa is faring much better than most states, Iowa families, communities and businesses are still reeling from the economic earthquake caused by the biggest recession since the Great Depression.
Flu packs punch, but will H1N1 deliver on hysteria?
The first shipments of the H1N1 vaccine took off this week, and as I crouched down, having countless intimate conversations with my toilet last Friday, I wondered how much I would give to have that remedy.
Christmas in October
Yesterday will go down as one of the happiest days of my life. Last night after supper, Cordy and I went out to do our chicken chores.
Your input matters to help future of Riverboat Days
If you read yesterday’s front page article about the future of Clinton’s Riverboat Days, we hope you have been inspired to action.
Little aspects of adulthood sneak up on editor
During my tenure as a student for 17 years, I had a distinct picture of what adulthood would be like.
Air quality issue starts at home
On Thursday, Sept. 18, CRDC hosted a meeting for local plant managers and safety and environmental staff regarding air quality issues as they impact our region.
Vitamin D deficiency can be dangerous to your health
Recently there has been a lot of news about Vitamin D, whether it is network news, a medical magazine or Reader’s Digest.
Fall Festival, Paint the Town showcase the fun to be had here
Today’s the day — there are two fun community events going on that no doubt will be fun for all.
‘Mid-life! The Crisis Musical’ at Circa '21 has something for everyone
Yes, the title says it all. You can easily guess the focus of the latest offering from the incomparable dinner theater in the District of Rock Island.
Swelling during pregnancy typical in early, late stages
DEAR DR. MONA: My daughter, who is 24 weeks pregnant, is starting to have swollen legs. I know this happens late in pregnancy sometimes, but her legs look quite big and I am worried about this. Please advise. — Mary Ann
A chicken labor of love for desired comfort
I have come to the conclusion that there is nothing I wouldn’t do for my girls — no mountain I wouldn’t climb or river I wouldn’t cross, which is saying a lot since I don’t know how to swim.
Rekindling faded memories from past big games
Life started out great in 2003.
Food glorious food; Angie picks her top-10 favorites
There are certain things in life that I cannot think about living without. I, like 99.9 percent of most people, have undeniable cravings that may or may not be good for me.
Recovering is not recovery
In one of my recent articles, I noticed that my picture had been bumped for other news.
Gable’s presence provides big steps for CCC athletics
Wednesday can be a solid step forward for Clinton Community College athletics.
Danger looms inside the coop
There is never a dull moment out here on the farm.
Lowered immune systems may be susceptible to skin infections
DEAR DR. MONA: I have boils between my legs and in my armpits. Diabetes runs in my family and someone said this could be because of diabetes. How much should I worry about this? — Anna
‘Finally Friday’s’ offers filler for lost events, marina
Finally it’s Friday never meant so much.
Timing of financial tools’ use is crucial
Imagine arriving home from work and setting out the contents for meatloaf, the dinner selection you had planned.
Social networking takes new shape since inception
The term social networking took new meaning to me about four years ago.
Life not easy for best friend
I love my dog. I don’t know how many different ways I can say it or shout it to the world.
Weather takes unpredictable toll
I felt slow.
Not that I didn’t anticipate that feeling for maybe a day, but after mid-week, I started to worry.
Progress remains steady for Gateway area
So much is happening in the Clinton region right now.
Thunderstorms bring out worst in dog
There are some things in life you can never plan on. One of them is having a dog who is deathly afraid of thunderstorms.
Environmental changes may lead to problems
DEAR DR. MONA: I am concerned about a vaginal discharge with a bad odor that I cannot get rid of.
Response to economy will affect history
August is a traditional vacation month, a last hurrah before the onset of autumn. Many spend their day relaxing with something on their reading list.
Small businesses would benefit from health care reform
As Americans debate how best to reform our nation’s health care system, two things have become increasingly clear.
Rock the River rekindles early childhood memories
One of my earliest childhood memories is of sitting on my grandparents’ living room floor listening to a Billy Graham crusade on TV.
Suspicions unfortunately proven after trip to condo
Suspicions are never good — especially when they come true in a chicken house.
Little evidence that stress causes miscarriages
DEAR DR. MONA: I recently miscarried and I am bothered a bit because one of my friends told me this was due to stress over some family issues.
Disaster update: One year later
As required by law, the Rebuild Iowa Office (RIO) issued its quarterly report on July 10.
Ask the doctor: What weight loss options work?
QUESTION: I am swimming in weight loss options. I have tried, without success, various things and gimmicks to loose weight.
Happy ending to Bix training
I ran with the best of the best during Saturday’s 35th annual Quad-City Times Bix 7. I was definitely in my element Saturday.
There are signs economy is starting to recover
First the bad news. In several weeks, the lazy, carefree days of summer will end and educators and students will return to school.
Food choice could lead down a dangerous path
Even though I’m too old to enjoy the summer as a care-free student, basking in the sun each day before inevitably dragging myself back to school in the fall, the summer months still hold a special meaning.
CCCDA appreciates railport project support
On July 15, CRDC was awarded $200,000 from the Clinton County Community Development Association (CCCDA) which will be used to cover some upfront expenses related to the development of the Lincolnway Railport.
New habits emerge as babies become older
My chicks are no longer babies. Like most parents, its hard to see my children grow up.
Treatment necessary for post-menopausal problem
DEAR DR. MONA: I stopped having menstrual periods four years ago and then recently I started to have vaginal bleeding again. Is this normal? I am still young (49) and I assume this is OK. — Janice
RAGBRAI Day 2: A hilly ride complete with a scary tour
GREENFIELD — Anyone thinking Iowa was flat simply needed to do Monday’s 72-mile route of RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa).
A Hooters helmet and fainting goats?
RED OAK — If there were ever perfect conditions for RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa), Sunday’s were it.
Timing keys importance to costly decisions
At a time when citizens need help the most, it seems some governmental bodies and businesses have horrible timing.
Popular sports movies give added motivation
When the Quad-City Times Bix 7 rolls around every year, I am naturally pumped up and ready to go.
Schueller: Legislation will help Iowans
It is an honor to serve as your State Representative. The 2009 Legislative Session is over and I’m proud of the progress we made helping middle-class families.
Running into a new pair of shoes
Like most women, I love to buy shoes. However, my shoe taste might be a little different than most. I enjoy buying running shoes.
Treatments available for unwanted hair
DEAR DR. MONA: What can I do about my facial hair? No matter how I treat it, it persists. — Melissa
Balancing state budget top priority for Legislature
Fiscal responsibility and balancing the state budget are top priorities for the Iowa Legislature.
Riverboat Days celebration offers pleasant surprise
At about this time last year, my wife, Christina, and I were disappointed about missing the annual Fourth of July festivities back home in southwest 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.

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