City council eyed to ease library budget cuts and save services
The Gazette Editorial urges Cedar Rapids to explore revenue options after an 8 percent library funding cut starting July 1. It proposes a referendum to raise the library levy from 4 to 10–12 cents, maintain books spending, and potentially close Sundays to save about 345 thousand dollars, with reversals if a levy passes. It argues against new fees and stresses universal access to books, programs, and digital resources.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Westdale Mall
Lori Barkema
Jim Prosser
Cedar Rapidians
Library Board
Library
Letters accuse Congress of treason over Iraq retreat
A reader critique blames Democratic leaders for pressuring a U.S. pullout from Iraq and links this to risk for soldiers. The letter cites funding, equipment shortages, and political motives, and contrasts modern troops with Revolutionary War resilience. It also covers theater reviews and civic concerns, including local budget cuts and public safety.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
U.S
Iraq
Afghanistan
George Washington
Continental Army
Valley Forge
Congress
America
Mort Kondracke
Fox News
San Francisco Chronicle
3Rd Infantry Division
United States
Arkansas National Guard
39Th Brigade
Can Slick Promotions Truly Help Africa
The piece examines the Red campaign branded by Bono, Vanity Fair, and major sponsors, analyzing publicity efforts in Africa. It questions whether advertising philanthropy translates to real aid, noting fundraising shortfalls and the gap between branding and outcomes. It urges direct giving to the Global Fund and stresses storytelling limits in conveying Africa's diversity.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Africa
Vanity Fair
Bono
New York Times
Red
Global Fund
Gap
Apple
Motorola
Advertising Age
Sally Struthers
Christian Children’s Fund
Blood Diamond
Scotland
Ralph Lauren
Paul Simon
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Globalfund.org
Underground power lines impractical and dangerous claim
A March 6 letter argues against burying electric transmission citing safety and practicality. The author, an earthmoving equipment operator, references an Iowa One Call luncheon on digging hazards and legalities, noting 110 volt ground risk versus high voltage overhead lines and insulation challenges for underground installations.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Iowa
Ben Wantl
Coralville
Take a risk and go see TGRs latest production
A reader recalls taking family to Theatre Cedar Rapids for part one of Angels in America with elephants entering the U S Cellular Center across from the theater. The review praises the onstage production as one of the best but notes many empty seats and calls the choice a bold risk by TCR management. The observer recalls the elephants and the strong, thought provoking drama.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Tam
Eric Clark
U.S. Cellular Center
Clark
Ticketmaster
Colter
Frederick North English
Angels
Abbie Swanson
Mount Vernon
Theatre
Cedar Rapids
Angels In
TCR
Also Mentioned on This Page
the Gazette
Gazette
Compassion
Ezekiel
Sodom
Tom Munckton
Karen Heller
Philadelphia Inquirer
TGR
Che Hasette
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