Iowa’s right-to-work debate tests state marketing claims
The editors argue Iowa should trumpet its right-to-work status as a factor attracting business, noting the 1947 law and Taft Hartley linkage. Governor Vilsack defends the administration, saying there is no plan to change the statute. Supporters cite Iowa’s tradition of self-determination as a selling point for relocation.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Iowa
Tom Vilsack
State Department of Economic Development
Vilsack
Sos
Wilsack
Congress
Chuck Larson
Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids Cry for Change: Citizens Call for City to Reassess Priorities
A resident urges Cedar Rapids readers to question spending on art structures and a new stadium while funding for schools, police, and aid for families near poverty level remains scarce. The letter condemns commercialization and calls for residents to reclaim city governance.
Edison IBM partnership eyed for Cedar Rapids schools plan
A July to October 2000 debate outlines Edison Schools and IBM collaboration to model technology in Cedar Rapids schools. ALOT proposes staged funding, independent needs evaluation, and a 20 year plan while urging a public presentation by Edison before any bond vote. Dick Spencer, IBM retiree, serves as ALOT treasurer.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
IBM
ALOT
Edison Schools Inc
Edison
United States
Sean Rush
IBM Global Education
Cedar Rapids
Lew Finch
Learning Alliance
Ian Jukes
Jukes
Battle Hymn meaning and Christian abolitionist heritage
A reader responds to William C. Jacobson’s July 4 column arguing that The Battle Hymn of the Republic embodies Christian abolitionist roots. The letter insists Julia Ward Howe framed the hymn with explicit faith in Jesus Christ and God’s role in a nation founded on liberty and equality.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Jesus
William C. Jacobson
Julia Ward Howe
Jesus Christ
Gazette letter policy invites 300-word submissions
The Gazette accepts letters up to 300 words. Include your name, street address and daytime phone number, but only your name and hometown will be published. Send to The Gazette Box 511 Cedar Rapids Iowa 52406 or via FAX 319 398 5846 or email gazedit fyiowa com.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Gazette
the Gazette
Cedar Rapids
Iowa
Inmates weigh suit over telephone rate costs
Cedar Rapids source Mauryne Simoens notes inmates consider legal action over charges for phone calls. The commentary questions the fairness of bills and frames the issue as a friction between punished and punisher with calls limited by policy.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Mauryne Simoens
Cedar Rapids
East Post Road extension framed as land development move
The Gazette argues the East Post Road extension would be built soon to aid land development rather than for transportation. It notes the Draft 2030 Transportation Plan allows cost sharing with developers and could enable eminent domain to secure right of way, prompting public concern over subsidizing private development.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
East Post Road
the Gazette
City Development Department
Lynne Carlson
Cedar Rapids
Gazette Readers Letters Policy Summary
The Gazette states it does not vouch for letter accuracy nor judge opinions. It allows readers to publish their views with equal opportunity for corrections or responses.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Gazette
Clean air concerns in Cedar Rapids health worries persist
Tom Naughton of Cedar Rapids questions air quality despite Linn County Health Department reports and EPA audits. He cites respiratory issues in Cedar Rapids and rural areas, notes Grassley inquiries, and urges stronger regulations and public access to reports.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Cedar Rapids
Linn County
Tection Agency
Kansas City
Chuck Grassley
Grassley
Linn County Health Department
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Tom Naughton
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Mark Bowden
Derry Elsen
Dave Storey
Scott Swenson
Peg Schmitz
Statehouse
Chicago
Buddy
Tas Yka Lees
Seattle
C.R
Dick Spencer
Jacobson
United States of American