As the Czech School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, begins to celebrate its 150th year in 2019, a project to document that history is nearing its end. For the past two years, in homes, care centers, at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library and elsewhere, I’ve talked to more than 50 people with Czech […]
Winter farmers markets in Eastern Iowa
Even if the calendar says otherwise, it certainly feels like winter. Whether you’re getting ready for the holidays, or just craving homegrown food, winter farmers markets offer a chance to buy fresh and support your local farmers. Oftentimes, vendors also sell one-of-a-kind handmade items that make great gifts, too. Following are indoor farmers markets operating […]
Iowa Organic Conference set for Nov. 18-...
Early registration is still available through Nov. 11 for the Iowa Organic Conference, happening Nov. 18-19 at the University of Iowa. Learn more about the conference from Iowa State University Extension & Outreach: IOWA CITY – The 18th annual Iowa Organic Conference, a joint effort between Iowa State University and the University of Iowa Office […]
Time to set your clocks back
So much politics this close to Tuesday’s elections and Daylight Saving Time is no different. On whichever side you stand, it happens again this weekend, when Daylight Saving Time ends. Some refer to it as “Daylight Savings Time,” but that’s another story. The switch to Standard Time happens at 2 a.m. every year on the […]
Biden campaigns with Hubbell, Finkenauer...
CEDAR RAPIDS – As light rain fell, hundreds of people waited in a line wrapped around the Second Avenue Bridge to hear former Vice President Joe Biden in a campaign rally inside the Veterans Memorial Building. Biden appeared with First District congressional candidate Abby Finkenauer and Democratic candidate for governor Fred Hubbell and running mate […]
Final photos: Smitty’s Shoe Repair in Ma
By Cindy Hadish MARION – Rich Foens has soled his last shoe. Starting as a youth in his father’s shop, Foens is retiring at age 80 after 55- to 70-hour work weeks as owner of Smitty’s Shoe Repair. Yet, he insists it wasn’t really work. “I started at age 9 and I’ve enjoyed every day,” […]
Photos: Sen. Kamala Harris visit to Ceda...
CEDAR RAPIDS – More than 150 people packed into a ballroom Tuesday, Oct. 23, at the Paramount Theatre in Cedar Rapids to hear Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) during an early vote rally. Harris is among a string of Democrats who may be testing the waters in Iowa for a potential presidential run in 2020, but […]
Orchids are a scream at new location for...
Don’t be scared off by the Halloween theme at this weekend’s Eastern Iowa Orchid Show & Sale. Organizers promise the annual event will be “a scream” at its new location, at the Elks Lodge, 801 33rd Ave. SW in Cedar Rapids. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 27 and 10 a.m. to […]
Photos: Grand opening of The History Cen...
CEDAR RAPIDS – The History Center celebrated its new home in a historic house with a grand opening today. Hundreds of visitors streamed through the doors of the building, used for years as a funeral home after serving two prominent families and renovations by Iowa’s most renowned artist, Grant Wood. The four-year effort began with […]
Guide to Iowa’s fall colors
Iowa’s incessant rains have put a damper on the start of the fall foliage season, but with dry days ahead, time still remains to enjoy this colorful time of the year. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources notes that fall colors are starting to shine across the state as more trees begin to change. Golds […]