Obesity debate: local action needed alongside national standards
The Gazette Editorial argues no single solution fits all to childhood obesity. It cites Vilack push for stricter school nutrition, studies on fat youth, and the need for local education on diet and exercise, noting Iowa actions like the Healthy Kids Act and school nutrition rules that exceed federal guidelines.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Iowa
U.S. Agriculture
Tom Vilsack
Vilsack
Department of Agriculture
Reader letters critique sensational front page coverage and public policy debates
Readers urge restraint in reporting religious issues and accuse editors of sensationalism. They discuss hospital chaplains, school abuse reporting, and broadcast symbols, then pivot to wider critique of government waste and constitutional rights, referencing Arizona immigration law and civic planning in Cedar Rapids.
National standards urged to raise U S education
Editor notes Gina Schatteman argues for national math and science standards amid patchwork state rules. She cites NAEP gaps, Race to the Top, Educate to Innovate, and STEM initiatives as steps to boost homegrown talent and U S economic vitality. University of Iowa context noted with National Lab Day events.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
U.S
United States
Mississippi
National Center For Educational Statistics
Iowa
Ries
Barack Obama
Gina Schatteman
University of Iowa, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Iowa GOP candidates clash over flood protection in Cedar Rapids debate
In Cedar Rapids on Saturday three Republican gubernatorial hopefuls debated flood prevention and watershed management. Terry Branstad praised rebuilding efforts but warned against a blank check. Bob Vander Plaats called for a cost benefit analysis. Rod Roberts urged full use of the 150 million Emergency Fund. They criticized Gov. Culver for not calling a special session and noted federal funding covers 65 percent of flood protection costs. The next governor faces large costs for Cedar Rapids and state watershed plans.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Cedar Rapids
Terry Branstad
National
Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
Rod Roberts
Carroll
Culver
Roberts
Army Corps of Engineers
Feds
Iowa
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