Public business must stay in public view says Gazette editorial
The Gazette urges transparency after a federal ruling penalized Cedar Rapids and former Police Chief William Byrne over public accountability. A slander suit about a probationary recruit’s exit reached trial, with Byrne declining to discuss personnel specifics. The piece argues leaders must explain department actions while protecting private details.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Cedar Rapids
William Byrne
U.S. District Court
Byrne
the Gazette
Call for nationwide election reform to protect ballot integrity
The piece argues for a coordinated review led by the National Association of State Election Directors to fix ballot design and counting accuracy. It warns that current systems from punch cards to touch screens may be inadequate and urges standards to preserve democracy.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Florida
National Association of State Election Directors
NASED
Public Attitudes Toward Waste Disposal Questioned
A Marion attorney asserts Linn County survey results on landfill and recycling are biased by question framing. He argues Bluestem Solid Waste Agency should listen to public opinion and improve decisions rather than manipulate votes.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Linn County
Bluestem Solid Waste Agency
Hennessey
Bluestem
Linn
Gore urged to concede Florida election amid recount disputes
A letter blasts Al Gore for challenging the Florida result despite Bush winning after multiple counts. The writer accuses Gore of fabricating votes, calls for acceptance, and claims his actions harm democracy and national credibility.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
al Gore
Gov. Bush
Florida
Gore
Cedar Rapids Bond Vote Urges Yes for School Improvements
Harry and Miriam Kiliper urge Cedar Rapids voters to approve the December 12 bond issue of 46 million dollars to repair aging schools. They highlight state matching funds of 750000 dollars and cite minimal annual costs of about 47.60 dollars for a 100000 dollar home, stressing essential wiring, plumbing, and classroom expansion.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids Community
Linn County
Johnson
Washington High School
Gazette Readers Letters Policy Note
The Gazette states it does not vouch for letters content or judge opinions. It invites corrections or contradictions from readers with equal opportunity for publication.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Gazette
Cedar Rapids CRCSD Bond Vote Based on Facts
Enrollment in CRCSD rose by three students in five years while staff increased by 543. The first five year plan adds 68 rooms with a $19 million second phase, plus $3.6 million electrical upgrades to finish in three years. About $20 million in deferred maintenance exists, $17 million in Lew Finch’s term.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Cedar Rapids Community School District
CRCSD
Ron Corbett
Lew Finch
The Gazette letter submission guidelines and rules
The Gazette outlines requirements for letters and guest columns including full name signature address and daytime phone number not published anonymous submissions are prohibited and material may be edited. 300 word limit for letters one per writer every 30 days and column length guidance of 650 words or fewer with contact options via mailbox fax and email.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
the Gazette
Cedar Rapids
Iowa
Also Mentioned on This Page
Mark Bowden
Jerry Elsen
Dave Storey
Scott Swenson
Peg Schmitz
K.I.S.S
Wally Taylor
Marion
Bush
Florida Supreme Court
Clinton
C.R
Sheila Harman
Harry and
Miriam Kiliper
This is just the beginning! Our collection holds over 300 years of history, including rare newspapers, obituaries, marriage records, birth records, and so much more—most of which you won’t find anywhere else!