North Iowa's 95 most popular letters to the editor in 2018: Baseball, Mohawks, Trump and King
Letter: Lessons learned upon return to Mason City
What is wrong with these people? That's what my dear mother would say if she was alive today!
Returning after nearly half a century, I am baffled. So before I got back to whence I came, I'll throw by 50 cents worth in. Mason City's economy is nonexistent. If y'all want to kick-start Cerro Gordo (fat hill), I'd suggest the economic development council hire a jam-up grant writer instead of raising utilities and taxing the middle class for all these past foo-pas your city's council seems to dream up.
That bottle bill is no longer working. Use a closed-down plant or factory and build a state-of-the-art recycling facility. Get some people working and get rid of these flies!
Use that boarded up Marshal and Swift building a nonprofit alternative education program. Teach vocational skills, small-engine repair, welding, plumbing and such. Use Patrick's Place as a culinary school for healthy foods, growing herbs and seasonal veggies.
And now that Younkers is gone, bulldoze Southbridge! Turn it into a park, with food truck vendors and artisans. Have a splash station for summertime fun. Ice it over in the winter for outdoor skating, cocoa shacks and soup stations. The grants are out there.
Lastly and of grave concern is your court system. I cannot call it a judicial one. The plea deals or probation for crimes against the innocent and vulnerable sickens me. And I have no suggestions for that.
Dear Mother would say at times, "You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear!" Needless to say my experience has been enlightening. I've made some awesome friends and learned a lot about this weather!
Jo Parker, Mason City
Letter: Sour grapes over baseball title
Congratulations to Mason City Newman on its baseball championship this summer. However, I wonder if it is somewhat tainted. While attending a Lisbon game this summer, I overheard a fan say, "Everyone hates Newman because they recruit players." It is evidently legal in Iowa but could be considered morally objectionable.
Putting all that aside, here is my main reason for this letter. I was not able to attend the championship game in Des Moines but was kept apprised of the progress. When hearing that my grandson, Brett Givens, who pitched for Lisbon, hit three batters in the first inning, it raised a question mark for me. Is the Newman coach teaching his players to get hit by pitches? My grandson does not throw exceptionally fast but is very accurate, can spot his pitches very well and did not hit another batter all year in over 15 games pitched.
While looking at Iowa high school baseball statistics, I noticed that Newman pitches were hit by pitches 106 times and that no other team in all of Iowa was hit 100 times. I wonder if Newman would have won as many games if it hadn't been "lucky" enough to for the players to get hit by pitches at possibly exact opportune times.
One wonders if this is really luck or a set pattern by a super egotistical coach who wants to win at any and all costs? If so, I hope there's not a "slip up" one of these years and one of his players gets seriously injured. Also, I wonder if the Iowa High School Athletic Association should initiate an investigation, and could a reprimand, suspension or worse be in order?
James Givens, Rio Hondo, Texas
Letter: On grandpa's sour baseball grapes
I am a grandfather of three Newman graduates who played baseball on state championship teams, including this year. Mr. Givens’ ill-informed rant ("Sour grapes over baseball title," Aug. 29) full of personal attacks, skewed facts, and disingenuous congratulations must come from his lack of understanding of the game and a superficial analysis of the statistics, or perhaps just gossip.
Congratulations to Mason City Newman on its baseball championship this summer. However, I wonder if it is somewhat tainted. While attending a …
Mr. Givens character is reflected in his personal attack on Coach Bohl, whom I’m sure he hasn’t met, and the Newman organization. The Newman baseball program enjoys a reputation of excellence in our community, the state of Iowa and beyond. Coach Bohl and his assistants demand and get the best from their players on and off the field. Newman teams offer respect to all but quarters to none.
The assertion that Newman recruits to build a team is refuted by the fact that all but one player on this year’s team started kindergarten at Newman. Which 5-year-old is your next star? A tradition can’t be imported; it must be built. If excellence is the goal, wins and losses take care of themselves.
While I am sure that Brett Givens is a fine young man, being on that large of a stage and facing that storied opponent might rattle a person and affect his accuracy. The hit batters stat only speaks to the quality of opposing pitchers and the toughness of Newman batters. Scoring 477 runs in a year doesn’t suggest luck.
I do observe that Mr. Givens diminishes the achievements of his grandson and the Lisbon team by denigrating the Iowa High School Athletic Association, umpires and opponents. Instead of celebrating their great season, he puts a sad footnote to their accomplishments. There is no disgrace in being beaten by a better team – just in being a poor sport.
Arlin Beemer, Mason City
Letters to the editor: Wrong about the left, tyrants, candidates, health care
Letter: Writer has it wrong about the left
This is in response to John Johnson's letter regarding the left's supposedly hypocritical stance on border control versus gun control.
First off, most people on the left do not have any problem with having a border that is safe and secure, both for the sake of the citizens of the United States as well as the citizens of Mexico. Our issue with border control relates more to how some politicians choose to implement those security measures, and the ideas they have to try and solve the problem (building a wall that will do nothing to actually stop people from coming here, for instance, and which would be a complete waste of money that could be put to much better use).
We also take issue with the nasty rhetoric used by some to describe immigrants. Whether they're here legally or not, they deserve to be treated like human beings. Stereotyping and discriminating against them is not the way to tackle the issue.
Second, an immigrant's legal status does not have any bearing whatsoever on how likely they are to commit murder. That's not how it works. The vast majority of undocumented/illegal immigrants are non-violent. Besides that, plenty of people have been killed by citizens who were either born and raised in this country or came here legally, too.
Finally, John, if you want your view points to be taken seriously and respected, maybe drop the snide tone and dismissal of "lefties", as well as the jabs at Hogg. Just saying.
Angela Niles, Mason City
Letter: Tyrants can't defame the free press
You may remember the Pentagon Papers case. The decision from the Supreme Court shows us why we can't have a delusional tyrant defame the free press. From Justice Black, concurring with Justice Douglas regarding New York Times v. United States:
"In the First Amendment, the Founding Fathers gave the free press the protection it must have to fulfill its essential role in our democracy. The press was to serve the governed, not the governors. The Government's power to censor the press was abolished so that the press would remain forever free to censure the Government. The press was protected so that it could bare the secrets of government and inform the people.
"Only a free and unrestrained press can effectively expose deception in government. And paramount among the responsibilities of a free press is the duty to prevent any part of the government from deceiving the people and sending them off to distant lands to die of foreign fevers and foreign shot and shell.
"In my view, far from deserving condemnation for their courageous reporting, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and other newspapers should be commended for serving the purpose that the Founding Fathers saw so clearly. In revealing the workings of government that led to the Vietnam war, the newspapers nobly did precisely that which the Founders hoped and trusted they would do."
Paul Barenthin, Northwood
Letter: Albert Lea regains control of health care
It has been over a year since we started our journey to save Albert Lea's health care. We have rallied, lobbied, raised funds, attended countless meetings, written letters, called politicians and visited the state capitol. I and several others even learned how to tweet!
We are fortunate that Save Our Healthcare has the support of both city and county. There are many brilliant, determined and compassionate people working together to accomplish our goal to regain control of our health care.
Have you ever heard the song “Unanswered Prayers?" I believe that we will live to appreciate the turn of events that started a year ago. Let go of the past and look to the future! In the meantime, we still have ER, clinic, same-day surgery, Health Reach, and cancer center. Mayo will provide surgery here until 2019 and baby delivery until 2020. Soon Mayo will add inpatient behavioral health to treat the mentally ill (a disease like cancer or diabetes; with proper care, there is much hope.)
We are now in the first phase with the consulting firm that will guide us in restoring our lost services. We have had many calls from potential providers that are interested in our endeavor. They recognize that at the intersection of two interstates lies a beautiful city with caring residents, an historic downtown, vibrant businesses and thriving education institutions. They see a Blue Zone community with walking trails, bike trails, parks, gorgeous lakes, beautiful assisted living centers, and much more.
Remember that you are an important part of our success.
Merilynn Linde, Albert Lea, Minn.
Letter: Kavanaugh is the right pick
The process for confirming President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee has started. As a member of Concerned Women for America of Iowa, I support the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh.
Kavanaugh was confirmed to the D.C. Circuit Court in 2006, and his record is exemplary, supporting the Constitution and its original intent. Not only does his record show that he is a guardian of our liberties as spelled out in the Constitution, he is highly regarded by those with whom he has worked. He has an extensive resume from clerking in the Ninth and Third Circuit Courts to serving as associate counsel and senior associate counsel to President George W. Bush.
Alberto R. Gonzales, former Attorney General of the United States, has remarked that Kavanaugh understands the appropriate role of a judge, that he is disciplined and not arrogant.
Kavanaugh is the kind of individual that I want as a public servant. He has demonstrated that he bases his rulings within the confines of the Constitution and that he is a conservator of liberty. He is highly capable, and I believe he is an excellent nominee for the Supreme Court.
Carol A. Evers, Riverside
Letter: More to the county treasurer race
Oh Skipper, there you go again! While there are certainly twists in this year’s elections, there are many more twists than what's been reported.
When writing about the challenge to incumbent Pat Wright who has been treasurer for eight years, and worked in that office for 40, you stated Natasha Lewerke was fired from the Treasurer’s office “for an error in dispersal of funds involving car dealerships.” The Globe Gazette newspaper reported on June 2016 that the State's audit revealed "based on the DOT's calculation, a dealership and a company performing upfitting avoided paying approximately $283,867.” That’s one heck of an error; it wasn’t a dispersal. I think it was one dealership and one company that turned chassis into saleable trucks; no cars involved. The devil’s in the details.
I’ve got to admit that Natasha is not short on moxie, responding to her termination by suing Cerro Gordo County, Pat Wright as treasurer and Pat Wright personally. The case was dismissed with prejudice. "The lawsuit continued to be drug out [sic] and it was most important for me to be able to run for this position," Lewerke said. "Pursuing my dream to be treasurer is much bigger than any lawsuit." I guess so! Her signs just say “County Treasurer Natasha Lewerke."
Skipper got one part very right, people are not real aware of county elections. Next time you look at one of Natasha’s signs, imagine an uninformed voter seeing it. Doesn’t she appear to be the incumbent? “Re-elect Pat Wright for Treasurer” seems a bit more forthright.
Oh well, this year it seems that the Republicans are abounding in truthiness … like attributing a political portfolio to a first-time candidate because her husband’s brother won a seat. My son-in-law’s a brewer; think Fat Hill will let me run their vats?
Tracy Smith, Clear Lake
Letter: Left can't have it both ways
Hey lefties, question: If gun control is the answer to school shootings, would not border control be the answer to illegals killing American citizens?
And before you whine about politicizing the death of Mollie Tibbetts at the hands of an illegal immigrant, you and your happy cohorts in the media need to look at yourself and your gushing support the likes of David “cameraman” Hogg. Newspapers ran stories covering his nationwide bus tour.
John Johnson, Britt
Letter: Wife-beaters, child-abusers shouldn't have guns
In 2014, the Iowa Gun Owners sent their Federal Candidate survey to then candidate Rod Blum. They asked Rod Blum if he supports repealing the “Lautenberg Domestic Misdemeanor Gun Ban.” The Lautenberg Amendment, named after Sen. Frank Lautenberg, made it illegal for convicted domestic abusers to buy a gun. Domestic abuse victims need such protections because these victims are five times as likely to end up dead if their abuser can access a gun. Sen. Lautenberg argued that wife-beaters and child-abusers should not have guns. But Rod Blum wanted to repeal the Lautenberg Amendment, in essence saying, wife-beaters and child-abusers should have guns.
On this same survey, Blum vowed to oppose any expansion of background checks to purchase a firearm. Those who currently wish to purchase guns or ammo without undergoing a background check can do so through private gun sales or over the internet. Most gun owners and NRA members want universal background checks. They support universal background checks because, as law-abiding citizens, they do not want criminals and people with mental health issues to access guns. But Rod Blum opposed universal background checks.
In April 2017, I spoke to Rep. Blum in person. I wrote down questions about Blum’s survey answers, gave him the paper with my contact info, and asked him to respond to these questions. Blum took the paper, shook my hand, looked me in the eye, and promised to respond to these questions. Rod Blum never contacted me about this or answered my questions. As a concerned citizen, I do not want women and children who have suffered abuse to be shot by their abusers. And as a voter, I do not want a representative who tells me to my face he will answer these questions, and then breaks that promise.
Caleb Gates, Cedar Rapids
Letter: Library conflict is about power
From the time Mary Markwalter took over at the library, she has been trying to get the society out of there. One of the first things she did was to remove about half of their shelving and put it in another room. It was not used for anything, just sitting there empty. But she asserted her authority.
She has not been friendly to the people working in the room (ask some of the genealogy members), being rude and constantly remarking how the society was taking up room, time and library assets while doing nothing meaningful.
Mary enjoys power, and some of us in the society wonder if she really wants (or needs) the room, or whether it's just another attempt to gain total control over her little fiefdom. She runs the building like a prison, which is another example of her desire for power. So I wish everyone would just step back, take a deep breath, and ask the real purpose in this proposed change. Is there a real purpose in this, or just another step in Mary's little game of total control?
Also consider this: once she gets the genealogy department out of there, how long before she sets her sights on the archives room?
The library is a needed, respected and loved part of Mason City. But it should not be run on someone's ego or desire for authority.
Lowell Swenson, Mason City
Letter: Sour grapes over baseball title
Congratulations to Mason City Newman on its baseball championship this summer. However, I wonder if it is somewhat tainted. While attending a Lisbon game this summer, I overheard a fan say, "Everyone hates Newman because they recruit players." It is evidently legal in Iowa but could be considered morally objectionable.
Putting all that aside, here is my main reason for this letter. I was not able to attend the championship game in Des Moines but was kept apprised of the progress. When hearing that my grandson, Brett Givens, who pitched for Lisbon, hit three batters in the first inning, it raised a question mark for me. Is the Newman coach teaching his players to get hit by pitches? My grandson does not throw exceptionally fast but is very accurate, can spot his pitches very well and did not hit another batter all year in over 15 games pitched.
While looking at Iowa high school baseball statistics, I noticed that Newman pitches were hit by pitches 106 times and that no other team in all of Iowa was hit 100 times. I wonder if Newman would have won as many games if it hadn't been "lucky" enough to for the players to get hit by pitches at possibly exact opportune times.
One wonders if this is really luck or a set pattern by a super egotistical coach who wants to win at any and all costs? If so, I hope there's not a "slip up" one of these years and one of his players gets seriously injured. Also, I wonder if the Iowa High School Athletic Association should initiate an investigation, and could a reprimand, suspension or worse be in order?
James Givens, Rio Hondo, Texas
Letter: Library board won't compromise
Update on genealogy library (GL) eviction: Thirty-five supporters attended the library board meeting on Aug. 21. Twelve or more spoke 75 minutes on the importance of keeping the GL intact in its present location in the MCPL, plus we'd gathered 725 signatures on a petition. The board tabled it, as three members were absent. Two members stated they did not see the necessity of voting on this matter, as they had already voted on it. (May 5, voted to evict the GL). They approved an extension until Sept. 30, but told us to continue looking for alternate space.
City Council wants the two groups to reach a compromise. The Library Board proposes: 1) NCIGS turn ownership of our collection over to the MCPL. 2) The collection would be moved to another area. (Library director stated in July they only had room for 500 of our 5000 items.) 3) Our members can apply to become volunteers to conduct genealogy searches. (Impossible with 90 percent of the collection missing.) NCIGS Board learned of this proposal the night before the meeting. It was never formally sent. The "stinger" is the room is to become a meeting room with a fee. That is more important than a genealogy library?
NCIGS proposes: 1) GL be left as is, but renamed the Genealogy and History Center and operated by NCIGS. (MCPL is almost totally lacking in history resources, which the GL has); 2) NCIGS will pay $1,200 a year (FY2018 the library received $1,315 for all rented rooms). The Globe Gazette Editorial Board stated NCIGS should not have free space. We were never asked to pay anything.
Now, who has been willing to compromise? We need the public to speak up for us. Please contact your city councilman. Thanks for your support.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Reynolds identifies with farmers
Gov. Reynolds understands Iowa farmers. She has signed into law affordable health care for farmers, testifying to the EPA in favor of Iowa's biofuel industry, and pressing President Trump's administration to support ethanol production and expand markets for Iowa farmers among this growing trade war.
Fred Hubbell's criticism of Gov. Reynolds as "nothing more than politics" shows an extreme negligence of the farming community.
This November, I am supporting our Governor, Kim Reynolds.
Nancy Rockman, Mason City
Letter: Appreciate work by genealogy volunteers
I've been saddened to read about the Mason City Public Library's threat of removing the genealogical collection from the building. The collection represents unknown long hours, days and years of hard work done by dedicated volunteers to preserve such important history for future generations.
Many people do not become interested in researching their family lineage until mid-life when they have more time and motivation to do the research. Libraries are the logical places for people to seek such help, as I did when finding our family's past.
I have used the MCPL, Forest City Public Library, St. Olaf College library and archives, plus many other resources in the past. I also used the local newspaper archives to obtain obituaries that were put on index cards in both the Lake Mills and Forest City libraries. This information has helped many people, locally and out-of-state, to flush out family ancestors. It has been exciting to connect descendants to early ancestors who were early residents of my hometown of Lake Mills.
A town's genealogical collections should be considered a "real gem" in the library collection, with those using it appreciating the volunteers' service of love by the preservation of the town/community's history for future generations.
Elaine Bergan, Northwood
Letter: Candidates must address climate change
Of all the issues being discussed and debated in the run up to mid-term elections, it is quite disheartening that global warming and climate change are hardly mentioned at all.
Tariffs and immigration reform are, of course, pressing issues — they have an impact on our daily lives, and should be addressed. But is there anything more urgent than working together to find ways to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and at least attempt to mitigate the catastrophic effects of global warming, such as melting polar ice, rising sea levels, and drought? Aren’t we already seeing some of these effects in extreme weather conditions, wildfires, and massively destructive hurricanes?
I am encouraged by the efforts of people like Don Hofstrand, providing reliable information about the causes and effects of global warming, and by groups such as the Citizens Climate Lobby, organizing ordinary citizens, and helping us use the power of our voice and our vote to demand concrete actions by those we have elected to represent us at all levels of government.
Whether it is at a political rally or town hall meeting or just in conversation at the coffee shop, we should keep this issue out front. It should not be said by our children or by future generations that we were bystanders or silent witnesses to one of the most catastrophic disasters facing humankind. Please call, write, email, or speak directly to those we have elected to represent our voice, and to those who are seeking your vote, and let them know how important this issue to you.
Paul Collier, Mason City
Letter: Materials belong at the library
I am deeply disappointed and dismayed that the Mason City Public Library Board and Director Mary Markwalter are demanding that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society vacate the library's Genealogy Room, which houses over 5,000 historical reference materials relating to genealogy. While some of the items can be found online, many others are accessible only in print.
According to my (print) Webster's dictionary, a library is "a place where literary and artistic materials such as books, periodicals, newspapers, pamphlets, prints, records, and tapes are kept for reading, reference, or lending." Furthermore, the collection is a natural extension of the library's historical archives; both may be referenced by the same users. Properly promoted, the two sections can enhance the library's fine reputation.
In addition to personal interest, genealogy is a topic often assigned to students from elementary level through post-high school. Social studies and history teachers and their students often visit the collection.
NCIGS is a nonprofit organization maintained by volunteers who also staff the genealogy room during daytime library hours. Any proposed move is expensive beyond our means, in large part because any area housing the collection must be climate-controlled to prevent damage to valuable documents by heat, cold and humidity. The purchase or rent and remodeling of suitable quarters is vastly beyond the means of NCIGS.
To date, no other potential use of the space has been divulged.
Please join teachers, NCIGS and other interested citizens in preserving this valuable library of materials by attending the Mason City Council meeting at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 21. The library board meets at 4:15 p.m. the same day in the second floor of the board room.
Doris Smith, Mason City
Letter: Library needs genealogy club
According to USA Today, genealogy is currently the second most popular hobby in the U.S.
Despite online resources, family history isn’t becoming an armchair-only hobby. A few years ago, University of Illinois Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism professor Carla Santos described “genealogy tourists” as a fast-growing segment of leisure travelers. They’re tourists in search of their own stories. After interviewing visitors to the Genealogy Center at the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Santos described them as searching for a “generational sense of the self.”
“It starts at home, where they learn everything they can online. Then they want the tactile experience of research, of going to the library to learn more.”
“This form of tourism is growing rapidly and is increasingly popular as western societies age,” Dallen Timothy, professor at Arizona State University and editor of the Journal of Heritage Tourism.
During the last major library remodeling, the club and the library worked together, planning club space in the library as part of the library’s long-term plans. Now some club shelving has been removed at the librarian’s instructions causing irreplaceable documents to be stored on the porch of a club member.
Genealogy resources that can’t be found on the internet are a draw to the genealogist. Not all resource material can be digitized; old maps and plat books are valuable for research and information.
The genealogy group depends on membership dues for its finances and doesn’t have funding or cash flow to be able to buy or rent space elsewhere.
Library use is trending down. Libraries need to support resources that bring people in the door to justify their existence.
Library board: reverse the eviction order and support this valuable part of your community.
Patty Paul, Boerne, Texas
Letter: Act now to protect republic
I am worried for our country. If we do not get off our backside and stop this violent movement that is happening now by the far left and right, we will lose our republic and Constitution to socialism. We have a right to march and protest peacefully, but we do not have a right to violence.
As a citizen of the United States, we not only have a right to vote, but it is our duty to vote. We need to elect people who will represent us and enforce all our laws equally without a two-tier system.
In Webster's dictionary, look up the definition of a republic and socialism. Then decide which we want to be governed by. Let us act now, so we don't have to react later.
Alyce Hugeback, Hampton
Letter: Collection headed to the dump?
On June 1, Mark Suby, president of North Central Iowa Genealogical Society, received a letter from librarian Mary Markwalter. It stated: “Due to the changing space utilization needs of the library, the Mason City Public Library Board of Directors is requesting that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society remove the items owned by the Society and its members and vacate the space currently used by the Society at the Mason City Public Library by August 1, 2018.”
The Genealogy Library has been located in the MCPL since 1979. The first few years, they operated out of a few boxes but over the years through grants and donations, the library has grown to over 5,000 books. There are books on immigrants from European countries, passenger lists from ships, several sections on Iowa with histories of towns, cemetery records, church histories, plat maps, family histories, census, military records, and vital records from 1855-1940, and so much more.
It is considered a top-notch genealogy library, a place where not only citizens of Mason City and Cerro Gordo County come for information about their ancestors, but also serves the surrounding eight counties, plus people all across the country who stop in or write us.
There is renewed interest in genealogy with DNA testing and the TV show, plus, Rod Hungerford is in the library most weekdays to assist people who don’t have a computer or have no idea how to use one to find genealogy records.
So what is to happen to this valuable genealogical collection we have amassed? NCIGS is a small organization and doesn’t have money to pay rent, so will it end up in the city dump? We need help and input from the citizens of Mason City.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Keep collection at the library
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed “eviction” of the Genealogy Room at the Mason City Public Library. This Genealogy Room holds an extensive collection of genealogical materials including local, regional and state family histories, cemetery records and other related items of interest – gathered over many years. These materials are of great interest to people in the North Iowa and southern Minnesota areas. This collection is one of the most complete and most sophisticated of its type in Iowa and Minnesota. Many volunteers have spent hours collecting and collating these materials and have organized them into albums, journals and displays.
My granddaughter and I have spent hours there obtaining family records. It has been an educational experience for both of us. She, as a young girl, was able to learn of some of her ancestry and to establish a hobby of studying genealogy. I have often thought of how blessed we are to have such a wealth of information close to us in the Mason City Public Library.
It would be a shame, a tragedy to move this extensive collection to another location. Most likely, it would result in it being fragmented and located to multiple locations.
I am hopeful that the Library Board and the City Council will reconsider and give second thought in order to keep this very valuable Mason City resource in its current location.
Judy Evans, Mason City
Letter: Give offenders an either-or option
I see in the paper that due to a shortage of personnel in the military we are now going to allow people in with past drug use and other issues with the law. In the 1950s and '60s similar people were given a choice of prison or military duty when in trouble with the law. Let's save the $200 million the government is now offering in bonuses for new recruits, offer the old either-or choice to offenders, and also take some burden off our prison system.
Robert Freund, Greene
Letter: Trump is worse than expected
Donald Trump called on Attorney General Jeff Sessions, or Mr. Magoo as Trump once called him, to end the special counsel investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, just the latest in a series of actions indicating Trump believes he is above the law.
These actions have not been actions and words that we would see from an innocent man. An innocent person would fully cooperate in every way possible to expedite a conclusion and clear their name and get back to running the country. Trump has shown time and again that he intends to thwart the investigation, even at the risk of triggering a constitutional crisis.
Yet in a recent poll, 37 percent of Americans said Trump was honest and trustworthy. This also tells us that this same 37 percent from the poll are idiots and/or woefully uniformed. I am begging for Mueller to subpoena Trump's income tax returns. The only reason anyone would not release them voluntarily as all previous presidential candidates have since it has been expected over the last 50 years, is obviously because they don't want voters to know what is there. Duh?! Is the audit still ongoing after two years?
For those of us that thought that maybe after elected he would tame down and do a respectable job, you can kiss that thought goodbye. It is much worse than I could have ever imagined. He has embarrassed Americans and insulted our allies over and over and again. He represents the greatest danger this great country has been in for decades. He makes stupid Americans even more stupid! Trump has proven at least one thing: the Constitution may have given the president too much power, at least in Trump's case.
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Sanitizing the nominee's record
After the filing of the Freedom of Information Act request by the Democratic senators was denied, I became concerned about the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.
Why are the Republican senators sanitizing Kavanaugh’s government records during his service under President George W. Bush? Is it the possibility that Kavanaugh lied to the Senate prior to his confirmation in 2006? Why not turn over all the records that will show whether Kavanaugh was or was not involved in discussions about Guantamino Bay torture?
Any member of Congress, including Sen. Grassley, should be concerned enough to let the record speak for itself.
Julie Stewart Ziesman, Waukee
Letter: Find a win-win solution with library
There seems to be a great deal of conflict surrounding the genealogy society's use of a room in the Mason City Public Library. The room has been in use for the past 40 years and is lauded as one of the great collections for persons searching for their ancestors. The service is used not only by locals but by many across the state of Iowa and internationally as well. Since the availability of tracing ancestors through DNA, the process has become a phenomenon worldwide.
The service of the society is not only widely known, it has the ability to provide necessary help required by those of us who need help and are not Internet-savvy. Placing this service on the Internet is not a viable solution because the society has the guidance of a valuable person to give help to those of us who need it. Let's face it: I still recall having to leave my comfortable chair to walk across the living room and turn the knob on the television to channels 3, 6 and 10.
I don't understand why this service, which is such a gem and a star in Mason City's history, can be closed without a win-win agreement. The library board meets at the library on Aug. 21 and is open to the public. Please attend to fight to keep this service that Mason City should be proud of.
Nancy Hewett, Mason City
Letter: Appalled by library's decision
I read with a heavy heart Steve Bohnel's article about the Mason City Public Library's decision to force the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society to move out of the public library building. As both a Mason City native and as a genealogist, I am appalled at the library's decision.
Public libraries all across the country -- small and large -- know that family history researchers are among their most important patrons and supporters. Libraries have changed a lot over the past half-century, but one thing remains the same -- it is a place people can go to get help with all kinds of research.
Small nonprofit genealogy societies like NCIGS really have few options. Many small genealogy and family history societies across the Midwest rely on public libraries and historical societies for their physical existence.
Yes, there is a lot on the internet, but family history researchers know that there is no substitute for getting help from local volunteers (and professional librarians) who know the local territory. What better place than a public library?
I am a director of the Minnesota Genealogical Society, a past president of MGS, and a past director of the Association of Professional Genealogists. I graduated from Mason City High School in 1968, and have always thought the Mason City Public Library was one of the best things about Mason City -- a real gem the Mason City should be proud of.
I hope there is a happy ending to this story.
Jay Fonkert, Roseville, Minnesota
Letter: Raising my plunger to 'Urinetown'
Using comedy to present a serious subject is tricky, but the lively choreography and amazing singing talent on stage at Mason City Community Theater carry it off splendidly. The outstanding talent of both new and returning members reminds me that we don't have to travel to a big city for professional live theater; it is right here under our noses. You won't want to miss the youngest members of the cast who don't miss a beat and appear to be having the time of their lives.
So get on over to Mason City Community Theater for the remaining shows Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights at 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., and better bring a little extra change in case you need to to use "the facilities." Just kidding!
However, our donations to One Iowa North Scholarship Fund are welcome and the tips on conserving water that are posted on the walls remind us of what not to take for granted.
Beverly Butler, Mason City
Letter: Local control needed for decisions on new hog confinements
Factory farms are detrimental to public health. They contribute to hazardous water conditions where people and animals can get sick by drinking or even touching water. It makes a person think, why are so many confinements going up?
Part of the reason is because counties and local folks have no say in the construction of factory farms. Even if a community opposes them due to environmental, health or other reasons, the DNR gets the final say -- and they almost always get rubber stamped.
We need local control in every county so the people can decide what they want.
Thankfully, more people and their county supervisors are saying enough is enough! Twenty-two counties have passed resolutions or written letters requesting action from the Legislature. They are nonbinding but sent a clear message to the Statehouse that people on the ground want more protections from factory farms. Has your county taken action?
Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement is listening to people who want change. No more factory farms until we have local control and fewer than 100 impaired water bodies in Iowa.
Shannon Walker, Clarion
Letter: Confident in Timely Mission
As a past member of the Board of Directors and past employee of Timely Mission Nursing Home, I was sadden by the death of Virginia Olthoff and the mistakes that may have been made. However, it should also be noted that Timely Mission has a long history of treating residents with respect and dignity.
While no nursing home is perfect, I know that the staff and board of Timely Mission care deeply for the residents they serve. The people of Buffalo Center and surrounding communities have been very fortunate to have this facility in our community for 50 plus years.
Timely Mission has always passed yearly inspections by the State of Iowa with few or any discrepancies. The threat of the state imposing a $30,000 fine will only impose hardship on the current residents and staff. This money would need to be made up by higher fees to residents or lower employee pay. It will do nothing to fix the mistake that was made.
I sincerely believe that while Virginia may have not been treated correctly, everything necessary is being done to make sure it never happens again. The people of Buffalo Center should continue to have full confidence that their loved ones will be treated with the respect and love they so deserve.
Denny Murra, Buffalo Center
BUFFALO CENTER | Virginia Olthoff's daughter says she was a cheerful, kindhearted woman who loved to give others affectionate nicknames like "…
Letter: Pollution blame goes beyond ag
Kristen Arnold recently shared her opinion whose to blame for Iowa's pollution ("Iowa deserves better waterways," published Aug. 1). Her view was corporate farmers. My contention is she needs to evaluate her footprint first.
Does she know the water quality in the Des Moines River before and after it passes thru her community? A farmer is required to test his soils. Does she know what emissions are emitted from her car? A new John Deere tractor's engine actually has cleaner air coming out than going in. Does she know her personal trash probably goes to a landfill which as it decays, if at all, produces methane gas?
We all have ownership in our water issues. Each of us leaves a footprint on the environment each and everyday.
Instead of blaming someone else for the problem, let's focus on creating and solutions.
Brent Fedders, Mason City
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned t…
Letter: Without details, it's easy to forgive
In response to Roxann Newell's letter to the editor ("Touched by aunt's forgiveness," July 25): One should not make a judgement until they are sure they have all the facts.
Before my statement was read, I asked the judge if I could say a few words. She said yes. I told everyone that my statement was not at attack on Codie, but an attack on what Codie did. The Globe did not post that part.
Very few people besides myself and my wife knew what was going on. Many times we shared a meal with Ken, Kathy and Codie, and sometimes just to visit.
Both me and my wife would offer words of encouragement to Codie. Many times we would listen to Ken and Kathy's hopes and frustrations concerning Codie.
As far as Sharon being able to forgive Codie: Sharon did not know Codie personally due to a 35-year rift that Sharon had with Ken. The rift continued up to Ken's death.
It's easy to forgive when you don't know what's going on.
Marv Hackbart, Mason City
Letter: Lessons learned upon return to Mason City
What is wrong with these people? That's what my dear mother would say if she was alive today!
Returning after nearly half a century, I am baffled. So before I got back to whence I came, I'll throw by 50 cents worth in. Mason City's economy is nonexistent. If y'all want to kick-start Cerro Gordo (fat hill), I'd suggest the economic development council hire a jam-up grant writer instead of raising utilities and taxing the middle class for all these past foo-pas your city's council seems to dream up.
That bottle bill is no longer working. Use a closed-down plant or factory and build a state-of-the-art recycling facility. Get some people working and get rid of these flies!
Use that boarded up Marshal and Swift building a nonprofit alternative education program. Teach vocational skills, small-engine repair, welding, plumbing and such. Use Patrick's Place as a culinary school for healthy foods, growing herbs and seasonal veggies.
And now that Younkers is gone, bulldoze Southbridge! Turn it into a park, with food truck vendors and artisans. Have a splash station for summertime fun. Ice it over in the winter for outdoor skating, cocoa shacks and soup stations. The grants are out there.
Lastly and of grave concern is your court system. I cannot call it a judicial one. The plea deals or probation for crimes against the innocent and vulnerable sickens me. And I have no suggestions for that.
Dear Mother would say at times, "You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear!" Needless to say my experience has been enlightening. I've made some awesome friends and learned a lot about this weather!
Jo Parker, Mason City
Letter: Iowa deserves better waterways
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned the water was unsafe due to bacterial contamination. How disappointing for the weekend but how tragic for life!
I'm happy to pay taxes to protect public land, but now we can't even enjoy them. In Iowa where there are seven times more pigs than people, our waterways are under perpetual toxic harm. We know that corporate agriculture is the biggest contributor to water pollution in Iowa.
It doesn't have to be this way. Can you imagine the amazing recreational/tourist possibility of our rivers and public parks if our waters were pollutant-free?
Bottom line: this isn't just our swimming water, irrigating water, life-sustaining water. To get the clean water that Iowa's families deserve, we need polluters to pay to clean up the mess they made.
Kristyn Arnold, Des Moines
Letter: Prosecutors should quit making plea deals with pedophiles
No justice. It was very disheartening and disappointing to see another admitted pedophile to be given a very soft plea deal, as reported in the Globe Gazette on July 17.
This time it's Hancock County County Attorney, Robert Blake Norman, making the shameful deal with Damien Kyhl, who sexually assaulted multiple children over multiple years.
Instead of taking him to trial and being able to take this sexual offender off our streets for decades, it appears he'll be serving what could be five years of a negotiated 10-year sentence.
In no time. this pedophile will be back out and able to reoffend against our children. Also, no justice for the victims. Shameful.
We can only hope that the judge presiding in this case sees this as the dangerous plea deal this and refuses to accept it. It's past time for our county attorneys to quit making these soft plea deals with these dangerous individuals.
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: Thankful to live in Hancock County
It takes the debt of the lowest 55 counties to equal the combined debt of Winnebago and Mitchell counties. Sixteen of those 55 have no debt what so ever. If it wasn’t for Polk, Winnebago would be first at $40 million and Mitchell second at $32 million. Even counties with large cities like Waterloo and Cedar Rapids have lower debt.
And before a supervisor pens a reply to this paper remember this: You can drive from one county to another and your tires will always be on gravel. For the amount of debt you buried your constituents under, yours ought to be gold plated.
It really makes me wonder who was in charge to let your counties get in such disrepair that you had to borrow all that money and how you plan on repaying it while servicing current needs.
Note to the taxpaying residents of Winnebago and Mitchell who owes $72 million to bond holders: the movie "The International" has a tag line that fits your situation. “(Bondholders) control your money. They control your government. They control your life. And everybody pays.”
Hancock County is one of those debt-free 16, and for that, I thank the supervisors.
Also when you ask a Mitchell County Supervisor about the debt he piled on you, thank him for filing a lawsuit against opioid drug makers. Thanks to him and the big law firm pushing this lawsuit, the price of drugs will go up and you will get to pay for that too.
John Johnson, Britt
Letter: Sincerely, from 'The Rest of Iowa'
Dear Northwest Iowa, Please evolve. Sincerely, The Rest of Iowa.
Kevin Young, Sheffield
Letter: 'Conspiracy,' Bush funeral tell the GOP story
Trump is the worst and most dangerous president in modern times or longer. Christians, how can you support someone who was cheating on his third wife while his son was being born and admitted to assaulting many women. Remember the "Hollywood Tapes" and the 16 women who came forth, most credible? The same is true with his first two wives.
The Mueller investigation has already proven Trump has committed known crimes in his campaign for president. We probably don't know the extent but Bob Mueller and his team do. So far, Michael Cohen and General Flynn have pleaded guilty for crimes and are cooperating. Trump campaign chairman and Trump long-time associate, Paul Manfort, is not cooperating, but I don't think he will get pardoned.
Trump and his "deplorables" say it is all a "Democratic conspiracy." Really? Fired FBI director, James Comey, is a Republican and his replacement, deputy director Andrew McCabe, an independent who Trump also forced out. Current FBI director is Christopher Wray, a Republican. Fired deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein, is a Republican, and Matt Whitaker is a Republican replacing the fired Jeff Sessions, a.k.a." Elmer Fudd," also a Republican who Trump called "Mr. Magoo." Bob Mueller, special prosecutor heading the Russia probe, is a Vietnam hero and former FBI director, also a Republican.
Shame on a GOP Congress which didn't want Trump either, but selfishly fell in line after the election knowing the potential for disaster.
I watched the entire George H.W. state funeral. What a stark contrast to how an American president should be and what we have. Maybe the most qualified ever and served honestly and for the good of the country, never for himself.
He was a patriot, war hero, exemplary family man, honest businessman and politician, all the opposite of Trump. Amen.
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Closing Younkers is positive
John Skipper should retire completely. His negative “guest” columns are the last thing Mason City needs.
Across the country, brick-and-mortar retail malls are in trouble. Sears, JC Penney, Younkers, and numerous other retail giants have been leaving malls because they are no longer profitable. Mall operators need to look for alternatives to department store anchors to populate their malls. Specialty stores, restaurants, services, and entertainment represent the mall of the future.
The closing of the Younkers store presents a unique opportunity for Mason City, not the dark days indicated by Mr. Skipper in his negativity-loaded column. The redesign of the mall can now include the hotel as an integral part of the mall instead of building it in the parking lot. Take the Younkers store and convert it into the lobby of the new hotel, with meeting rooms and restaurants, with connections to the mall with its specialty stores, music events, sports events and special events that will become part of the mall in the future. Build the hotel rooms on additional floors above the mall level. The location will still be adjacent to Music Man Square, allowing for the use of that property as a conference center. The parking lots that exist would be maintained as they are.
I know that this change of direction will mean an extension of the project with the various grants changed to fit the new direction. This new direction will mean a positive direction for downtown Mason City, affirming the vote of the people and ignoring the naysayer’s dark days predictions.
Michael M Roddy, Mason City
Letter: Handle your own garbage, Minnesota
I wonder how many Iowans and our elected officials are aware that Iowa is soon to become a dumping grounds for garbage from Minnesota. According to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, the Minneapolis suburb of Burnsville announced that they were running out of space to dump their refuse. However, waste management is working out an arrangement to solve that problem by shipping their garbage and dumping into sites in Iowa.
I can’t help but wonder if our legislators are willing to become the “go-to” garbage state for Minnesota. Why can’t they find their own site or sustainable environmental solutions instead of bringing their potential pollution problems into our state?
I think we have enough of our own problems to deal with instead of becoming the garbage state of the Midwest for other state’s problems.
What do you think Linda Upmeyer?
Robert Wolfram, Ventura
Letter: Appalled at question about Mohawks
As an MCHS alum who ran track as a Mohawk, and whose brother was on the Mohawks' state championship football and swim teams, and whose sister played Mohawks sports and served as a class officer, I’m appalled at the effort underway to deep-six the name Mohawks from Mason City athletics.
According According to the respected, pro-Native American website Warpaths2Peacepipes.com, “the Mohawk were one of the most feared of all the native Indian tribes, and terrified their enemies due to the violent and brutal way in which they waged war.”
News flash to members of the Mason City School Board: Don’t even consider trying to ruffle the feathers of today’s Mohawks and their legions of fans. Any board member who votes for this ludicrous, politically correct proposal will be about as pleased with the results of their next election as Gen. Custer was with Little Big Horn.
Todd Blodgett, Clear Lake
Letter: Writer remembers parade without candy
Band Festival Parade, I remember them well. I used to look forward every year for the parade to march down State Street. Saturday I went, mainly to watch the veterans ride by. Something was drastically wrong with the whole setup.
Nowadays, this parade has turned into a mass giveaway of candy for the kids. They line the front of the onlookers, running into the street to what? Retrieve a Tootsie Roll or two shouted on by mothers and grandmothers who, if they see one, rush out in front of everyone. Kids enter into the parade route to watch for upcoming treat-throwers. There is no thought of safety for them. The throwers enter into the onlookers, also disrupting the parade enjoyment. Many throw candy into the crowd, hitting us in the face. I saw no sign of anyone keeping kids back so one can see what is coming up.
And since I'm at it, what makes the public entitled to spread out their blankets and post-off sections as early as Thursday to reserve their spot on city-owned property? Is there no order to anything anymore? I see the photos of parades past, and they are well organized and the crowd can enjoy the parade without all of the screaming of kids and mothers to "Get out in front. More candy is coming!" Next year, no parade for me, thank you!
Pat Blanchard, Mason City
Letter: No permission needed for 'hawks
In response to Le Anne Clausen de Montes's letter regarding the use of name "Mohawk" by the Mason City School District:
Most, if not all, names used today to refer to individual Native American tribes were coined by European settlers and the later independent nation states of the Americas. These names are often based on translations of derogatory terms used by enemy tribes. The "Mohawks" called themselves the "Kanien'kehá:ka" (i.e., the people of the flint). Competing Native American tribes referred to the them by various unfavorable terms such as "muhuwe:yck" which translates to "cannibal monsters" or "real snakes."
Dutch settlers paraphrased these terms into the new word "Mohawk", which first appeared in 1630. This Dutch phrase was later adopted into the English language just as Kanien'kehá:ka adopted various cultural traits from other peoples for their own benefit.
The Mason City School District does not need permission to use the English language.
Greg Schotanus, Plymouth
Letter: Facts support Symonds' sentence
1. On one of his last Talk to the Mayor programs, Mayor Bookmeyer said the loudest noise is often made by the person who doesn't know the facts.
2. People who were not present at the Symonds sentencing don't know the facts. I do as I was there.
3. People in attendance know the Judge relied upon the contents of the pre-sentence report prepared by the Department of Corrections, which was also used by the prosecution and by the defense, who asked for, but did not receive, a deferred judgment.
4. People in attendance saw the victim impact statement given by the victim's father.
5. People in attendance heard the explanation of the Assistant Attorney General Scott Brown for the appropriateness of an Alford plea in this case.
6. An Alford plea allows the defendant to admit that if the case went to trial, the State would be able to prove the offense charged, which is often a lesser included offense. The use of the Alford plea allows the prosecutor to avoid bringing the family of the victim through at least one set of depositions and through a full blown trial, and allows the prosecutor to often achieve much the same result as to sentencing. Most families appreciate not having to relive the trauma all over again at depositions and trial.
Robert S. Swanson, Mason City
Letter: Sand is the better watchdog for Iowa
I am writing this to urge that you vote for Rob Sand for Iowa state auditor on Nov. 6. I have served as a director of the Iowa Law School Foundation for about 14 years and became acquainted with Rob about 10 years ago when he was a student representative to our board.
Rob grew up in Decorah, and he exudes strong Iowa values. He was assistant attorney general of Iowa for about eight years and prosecuted public corruption and financial crimes, including the successful prosecution of the "Hot-Lotto" court case. He knows the state auditor must call a spade a spade regardless of partisanship, and during his time with the attorney general, he prosecuted Democrats and Republicans alike.
Rob Sand has said, and I fully concur, that the auditor's office is "supposed to be a watchdog for Iowa taxpayers" and should be "sniffing around" whenever there is a major change in a program affecting Iowans. While the media was raising concerns about Medicaid privatization over two years ago, the current state auditor, Mary Mosiman, only requested an audit this past June after pressures from a state senator to do so. I would further note that while the executive director of the Iowa Communications Network stole $380,000, Mosiman missed more oversight meetings for that agency than everyone else on the board. What kind of watchdog would you call that?
What corruption might a proactive state auditor discover? We desperately need a watchdog like Rob Sand as state auditor. Rob Sand is a man of high character and integrity, and he will devote every ounce of energy he has to being a great "watchdog" for all Iowans. I am proud to support him even though I am a lifelong Republican, and I urge you to vote for him on Nov. 6.
Raymond M. Beebe, Forest City
Letter: Appalled by library's decision
I read with a heavy heart Steve Bohnel's article about the Mason City Public Library's decision to force the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society to move out of the public library building. As both a Mason City native and as a genealogist, I am appalled at the library's decision.
Public libraries all across the country -- small and large -- know that family history researchers are among their most important patrons and supporters. Libraries have changed a lot over the past half-century, but one thing remains the same -- it is a place people can go to get help with all kinds of research.
Small nonprofit genealogy societies like NCIGS really have few options. Many small genealogy and family history societies across the Midwest rely on public libraries and historical societies for their physical existence.
Yes, there is a lot on the internet, but family history researchers know that there is no substitute for getting help from local volunteers (and professional librarians) who know the local territory. What better place than a public library?
I am a director of the Minnesota Genealogical Society, a past president of MGS, and a past director of the Association of Professional Genealogists. I graduated from Mason City High School in 1968, and have always thought the Mason City Public Library was one of the best things about Mason City -- a real gem the Mason City should be proud of.
I hope there is a happy ending to this story.
Jay Fonkert, Roseville, Minnesota
Letter: Attacks on Ragan are dirty lies
My neighbors and I have recently received mailings and Facebook postings that deliberately misrepresent our Iowa State Sen. Amanda Ragan (D-Mason City). These are sponsored by the Republican Party of Iowa and are a shameful attempt to falsify the record and delude the public before the upcoming November elections.
They make the same fraudulent claims of silly spending such as heated sidewalks that Republican campaigns have been putting in their advertisements against Democratic legislators for the last 10 years. The same cunning lies were used successfully by Americans For Prosperity two years ago to vilify and “take out” Mary Jo Wilhelm and Brian Schoenjahn. One would think that Republican ad-men, for the money they are paid, could at least invent new ones instead of running the same old pathetic lies.
The truth is that Amanda Ragan has been an exemplary representative for the people of Senate District 27 in Cerro Gordo, Franklin, and Butler counties. She is one of the most hard-working, knowledgeable, and caring public servants in Iowa government and has received awards for being an outstanding legislator.
Amanda Ragan has called time and again for oversight of the disastrous turnover of Medicaid to private out-of-state insurance companies that has resulted in wasted money and lower standards of care. She has fought for better funding of education and other vital services, while the all-Republican-statehouse has frittered away the state’s surplus on corporate give-a-ways.
The disgraceful defamation spread by the Republican Party may backfire on Shannon Latham of Sheffield, the opponent slated to run against Amanda Ragan. Latham could condemn and disassociate herself from this politics of personal destruction, but if this early smear is any indication, we may have a down and dirty campaign coming.
David Mansheim, Parkersburg
Letter: Schedule the tax sale as soon as possible
I came to Mason City early October 1958 to join the carpentry apprentice program. I retired in 2003, and that's worked out OK for me. Forty-five years of building (mostly housing, some commercial), and 35 years of real estate. Sears' new shopping center was being rushed to completion that fall for the Christmas shopping rush. That seamed to have worked out OK.
Seemed like not that many years later a North Iowa developer and a Clear Lake realtor decided to build a smaller shopping center along Highway 18 to the west.That seems to be working out OK.
Then came the talk of needing to do a downtown shopping area. I don't recall who owned it or who built it, but it seemed to work out OK for a long time.
I have not completed a large amount of research on the details of these owners. However as far as I know, all of the many houses I built are still paying taxes.
I have never herd of anyone selling, transferring, improving, or mortgaging property with three or four years of tax leans on any or all of the parcels.
First thing tomorrow morning, there needs to be a tax sale filed on Southbridge Mall.
Then the Chamber and or the City can start the planning of what would be nice downtown. Maybe the first thing could be renaming it City Center or something.
It's really a nice location for shopping and has a great center court for our less-than-perfect weather.
Don Kibsgaard, Mason City
Letters to the editor: Wrong about the left, tyrants, candidates, health care
Letter: Writer has it wrong about the left
This is in response to John Johnson's letter regarding the left's supposedly hypocritical stance on border control versus gun control.
First off, most people on the left do not have any problem with having a border that is safe and secure, both for the sake of the citizens of the United States as well as the citizens of Mexico. Our issue with border control relates more to how some politicians choose to implement those security measures, and the ideas they have to try and solve the problem (building a wall that will do nothing to actually stop people from coming here, for instance, and which would be a complete waste of money that could be put to much better use).
We also take issue with the nasty rhetoric used by some to describe immigrants. Whether they're here legally or not, they deserve to be treated like human beings. Stereotyping and discriminating against them is not the way to tackle the issue.
Second, an immigrant's legal status does not have any bearing whatsoever on how likely they are to commit murder. That's not how it works. The vast majority of undocumented/illegal immigrants are non-violent. Besides that, plenty of people have been killed by citizens who were either born and raised in this country or came here legally, too.
Finally, John, if you want your view points to be taken seriously and respected, maybe drop the snide tone and dismissal of "lefties", as well as the jabs at Hogg. Just saying.
Angela Niles, Mason City
Letter: Tyrants can't defame the free press
You may remember the Pentagon Papers case. The decision from the Supreme Court shows us why we can't have a delusional tyrant defame the free press. From Justice Black, concurring with Justice Douglas regarding New York Times v. United States:
"In the First Amendment, the Founding Fathers gave the free press the protection it must have to fulfill its essential role in our democracy. The press was to serve the governed, not the governors. The Government's power to censor the press was abolished so that the press would remain forever free to censure the Government. The press was protected so that it could bare the secrets of government and inform the people.
"Only a free and unrestrained press can effectively expose deception in government. And paramount among the responsibilities of a free press is the duty to prevent any part of the government from deceiving the people and sending them off to distant lands to die of foreign fevers and foreign shot and shell.
"In my view, far from deserving condemnation for their courageous reporting, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and other newspapers should be commended for serving the purpose that the Founding Fathers saw so clearly. In revealing the workings of government that led to the Vietnam war, the newspapers nobly did precisely that which the Founders hoped and trusted they would do."
Paul Barenthin, Northwood
Letter: Albert Lea regains control of health care
It has been over a year since we started our journey to save Albert Lea's health care. We have rallied, lobbied, raised funds, attended countless meetings, written letters, called politicians and visited the state capitol. I and several others even learned how to tweet!
We are fortunate that Save Our Healthcare has the support of both city and county. There are many brilliant, determined and compassionate people working together to accomplish our goal to regain control of our health care.
Have you ever heard the song “Unanswered Prayers?" I believe that we will live to appreciate the turn of events that started a year ago. Let go of the past and look to the future! In the meantime, we still have ER, clinic, same-day surgery, Health Reach, and cancer center. Mayo will provide surgery here until 2019 and baby delivery until 2020. Soon Mayo will add inpatient behavioral health to treat the mentally ill (a disease like cancer or diabetes; with proper care, there is much hope.)
We are now in the first phase with the consulting firm that will guide us in restoring our lost services. We have had many calls from potential providers that are interested in our endeavor. They recognize that at the intersection of two interstates lies a beautiful city with caring residents, an historic downtown, vibrant businesses and thriving education institutions. They see a Blue Zone community with walking trails, bike trails, parks, gorgeous lakes, beautiful assisted living centers, and much more.
Remember that you are an important part of our success.
Merilynn Linde, Albert Lea, Minn.
Letter: Kavanaugh is the right pick
The process for confirming President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee has started. As a member of Concerned Women for America of Iowa, I support the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh.
Kavanaugh was confirmed to the D.C. Circuit Court in 2006, and his record is exemplary, supporting the Constitution and its original intent. Not only does his record show that he is a guardian of our liberties as spelled out in the Constitution, he is highly regarded by those with whom he has worked. He has an extensive resume from clerking in the Ninth and Third Circuit Courts to serving as associate counsel and senior associate counsel to President George W. Bush.
Alberto R. Gonzales, former Attorney General of the United States, has remarked that Kavanaugh understands the appropriate role of a judge, that he is disciplined and not arrogant.
Kavanaugh is the kind of individual that I want as a public servant. He has demonstrated that he bases his rulings within the confines of the Constitution and that he is a conservator of liberty. He is highly capable, and I believe he is an excellent nominee for the Supreme Court.
Carol A. Evers, Riverside
Letter: More to the county treasurer race
Oh Skipper, there you go again! While there are certainly twists in this year’s elections, there are many more twists than what's been reported.
When writing about the challenge to incumbent Pat Wright who has been treasurer for eight years, and worked in that office for 40, you stated Natasha Lewerke was fired from the Treasurer’s office “for an error in dispersal of funds involving car dealerships.” The Globe Gazette newspaper reported on June 2016 that the State's audit revealed "based on the DOT's calculation, a dealership and a company performing upfitting avoided paying approximately $283,867.” That’s one heck of an error; it wasn’t a dispersal. I think it was one dealership and one company that turned chassis into saleable trucks; no cars involved. The devil’s in the details.
I’ve got to admit that Natasha is not short on moxie, responding to her termination by suing Cerro Gordo County, Pat Wright as treasurer and Pat Wright personally. The case was dismissed with prejudice. "The lawsuit continued to be drug out [sic] and it was most important for me to be able to run for this position," Lewerke said. "Pursuing my dream to be treasurer is much bigger than any lawsuit." I guess so! Her signs just say “County Treasurer Natasha Lewerke."
Skipper got one part very right, people are not real aware of county elections. Next time you look at one of Natasha’s signs, imagine an uninformed voter seeing it. Doesn’t she appear to be the incumbent? “Re-elect Pat Wright for Treasurer” seems a bit more forthright.
Oh well, this year it seems that the Republicans are abounding in truthiness … like attributing a political portfolio to a first-time candidate because her husband’s brother won a seat. My son-in-law’s a brewer; think Fat Hill will let me run their vats?
Tracy Smith, Clear Lake
Letter: Left can't have it both ways
Hey lefties, question: If gun control is the answer to school shootings, would not border control be the answer to illegals killing American citizens?
And before you whine about politicizing the death of Mollie Tibbetts at the hands of an illegal immigrant, you and your happy cohorts in the media need to look at yourself and your gushing support the likes of David “cameraman” Hogg. Newspapers ran stories covering his nationwide bus tour.
John Johnson, Britt
Letter: Wife-beaters, child-abusers shouldn't have guns
In 2014, the Iowa Gun Owners sent their Federal Candidate survey to then candidate Rod Blum. They asked Rod Blum if he supports repealing the “Lautenberg Domestic Misdemeanor Gun Ban.” The Lautenberg Amendment, named after Sen. Frank Lautenberg, made it illegal for convicted domestic abusers to buy a gun. Domestic abuse victims need such protections because these victims are five times as likely to end up dead if their abuser can access a gun. Sen. Lautenberg argued that wife-beaters and child-abusers should not have guns. But Rod Blum wanted to repeal the Lautenberg Amendment, in essence saying, wife-beaters and child-abusers should have guns.
On this same survey, Blum vowed to oppose any expansion of background checks to purchase a firearm. Those who currently wish to purchase guns or ammo without undergoing a background check can do so through private gun sales or over the internet. Most gun owners and NRA members want universal background checks. They support universal background checks because, as law-abiding citizens, they do not want criminals and people with mental health issues to access guns. But Rod Blum opposed universal background checks.
In April 2017, I spoke to Rep. Blum in person. I wrote down questions about Blum’s survey answers, gave him the paper with my contact info, and asked him to respond to these questions. Blum took the paper, shook my hand, looked me in the eye, and promised to respond to these questions. Rod Blum never contacted me about this or answered my questions. As a concerned citizen, I do not want women and children who have suffered abuse to be shot by their abusers. And as a voter, I do not want a representative who tells me to my face he will answer these questions, and then breaks that promise.
Caleb Gates, Cedar Rapids
Letter: Library conflict is about power
From the time Mary Markwalter took over at the library, she has been trying to get the society out of there. One of the first things she did was to remove about half of their shelving and put it in another room. It was not used for anything, just sitting there empty. But she asserted her authority.
She has not been friendly to the people working in the room (ask some of the genealogy members), being rude and constantly remarking how the society was taking up room, time and library assets while doing nothing meaningful.
Mary enjoys power, and some of us in the society wonder if she really wants (or needs) the room, or whether it's just another attempt to gain total control over her little fiefdom. She runs the building like a prison, which is another example of her desire for power. So I wish everyone would just step back, take a deep breath, and ask the real purpose in this proposed change. Is there a real purpose in this, or just another step in Mary's little game of total control?
Also consider this: once she gets the genealogy department out of there, how long before she sets her sights on the archives room?
The library is a needed, respected and loved part of Mason City. But it should not be run on someone's ego or desire for authority.
Lowell Swenson, Mason City
Letter: Sour grapes over baseball title
Congratulations to Mason City Newman on its baseball championship this summer. However, I wonder if it is somewhat tainted. While attending a Lisbon game this summer, I overheard a fan say, "Everyone hates Newman because they recruit players." It is evidently legal in Iowa but could be considered morally objectionable.
Putting all that aside, here is my main reason for this letter. I was not able to attend the championship game in Des Moines but was kept apprised of the progress. When hearing that my grandson, Brett Givens, who pitched for Lisbon, hit three batters in the first inning, it raised a question mark for me. Is the Newman coach teaching his players to get hit by pitches? My grandson does not throw exceptionally fast but is very accurate, can spot his pitches very well and did not hit another batter all year in over 15 games pitched.
While looking at Iowa high school baseball statistics, I noticed that Newman pitches were hit by pitches 106 times and that no other team in all of Iowa was hit 100 times. I wonder if Newman would have won as many games if it hadn't been "lucky" enough to for the players to get hit by pitches at possibly exact opportune times.
One wonders if this is really luck or a set pattern by a super egotistical coach who wants to win at any and all costs? If so, I hope there's not a "slip up" one of these years and one of his players gets seriously injured. Also, I wonder if the Iowa High School Athletic Association should initiate an investigation, and could a reprimand, suspension or worse be in order?
James Givens, Rio Hondo, Texas
Letter: Library board won't compromise
Update on genealogy library (GL) eviction: Thirty-five supporters attended the library board meeting on Aug. 21. Twelve or more spoke 75 minutes on the importance of keeping the GL intact in its present location in the MCPL, plus we'd gathered 725 signatures on a petition. The board tabled it, as three members were absent. Two members stated they did not see the necessity of voting on this matter, as they had already voted on it. (May 5, voted to evict the GL). They approved an extension until Sept. 30, but told us to continue looking for alternate space.
City Council wants the two groups to reach a compromise. The Library Board proposes: 1) NCIGS turn ownership of our collection over to the MCPL. 2) The collection would be moved to another area. (Library director stated in July they only had room for 500 of our 5000 items.) 3) Our members can apply to become volunteers to conduct genealogy searches. (Impossible with 90 percent of the collection missing.) NCIGS Board learned of this proposal the night before the meeting. It was never formally sent. The "stinger" is the room is to become a meeting room with a fee. That is more important than a genealogy library?
NCIGS proposes: 1) GL be left as is, but renamed the Genealogy and History Center and operated by NCIGS. (MCPL is almost totally lacking in history resources, which the GL has); 2) NCIGS will pay $1,200 a year (FY2018 the library received $1,315 for all rented rooms). The Globe Gazette Editorial Board stated NCIGS should not have free space. We were never asked to pay anything.
Now, who has been willing to compromise? We need the public to speak up for us. Please contact your city councilman. Thanks for your support.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Reynolds identifies with farmers
Gov. Reynolds understands Iowa farmers. She has signed into law affordable health care for farmers, testifying to the EPA in favor of Iowa's biofuel industry, and pressing President Trump's administration to support ethanol production and expand markets for Iowa farmers among this growing trade war.
Fred Hubbell's criticism of Gov. Reynolds as "nothing more than politics" shows an extreme negligence of the farming community.
This November, I am supporting our Governor, Kim Reynolds.
Nancy Rockman, Mason City
Letter: Appreciate work by genealogy volunteers
I've been saddened to read about the Mason City Public Library's threat of removing the genealogical collection from the building. The collection represents unknown long hours, days and years of hard work done by dedicated volunteers to preserve such important history for future generations.
Many people do not become interested in researching their family lineage until mid-life when they have more time and motivation to do the research. Libraries are the logical places for people to seek such help, as I did when finding our family's past.
I have used the MCPL, Forest City Public Library, St. Olaf College library and archives, plus many other resources in the past. I also used the local newspaper archives to obtain obituaries that were put on index cards in both the Lake Mills and Forest City libraries. This information has helped many people, locally and out-of-state, to flush out family ancestors. It has been exciting to connect descendants to early ancestors who were early residents of my hometown of Lake Mills.
A town's genealogical collections should be considered a "real gem" in the library collection, with those using it appreciating the volunteers' service of love by the preservation of the town/community's history for future generations.
Elaine Bergan, Northwood
Letter: Candidates must address climate change
Of all the issues being discussed and debated in the run up to mid-term elections, it is quite disheartening that global warming and climate change are hardly mentioned at all.
Tariffs and immigration reform are, of course, pressing issues — they have an impact on our daily lives, and should be addressed. But is there anything more urgent than working together to find ways to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and at least attempt to mitigate the catastrophic effects of global warming, such as melting polar ice, rising sea levels, and drought? Aren’t we already seeing some of these effects in extreme weather conditions, wildfires, and massively destructive hurricanes?
I am encouraged by the efforts of people like Don Hofstrand, providing reliable information about the causes and effects of global warming, and by groups such as the Citizens Climate Lobby, organizing ordinary citizens, and helping us use the power of our voice and our vote to demand concrete actions by those we have elected to represent us at all levels of government.
Whether it is at a political rally or town hall meeting or just in conversation at the coffee shop, we should keep this issue out front. It should not be said by our children or by future generations that we were bystanders or silent witnesses to one of the most catastrophic disasters facing humankind. Please call, write, email, or speak directly to those we have elected to represent our voice, and to those who are seeking your vote, and let them know how important this issue to you.
Paul Collier, Mason City
Letter: Materials belong at the library
I am deeply disappointed and dismayed that the Mason City Public Library Board and Director Mary Markwalter are demanding that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society vacate the library's Genealogy Room, which houses over 5,000 historical reference materials relating to genealogy. While some of the items can be found online, many others are accessible only in print.
According to my (print) Webster's dictionary, a library is "a place where literary and artistic materials such as books, periodicals, newspapers, pamphlets, prints, records, and tapes are kept for reading, reference, or lending." Furthermore, the collection is a natural extension of the library's historical archives; both may be referenced by the same users. Properly promoted, the two sections can enhance the library's fine reputation.
In addition to personal interest, genealogy is a topic often assigned to students from elementary level through post-high school. Social studies and history teachers and their students often visit the collection.
NCIGS is a nonprofit organization maintained by volunteers who also staff the genealogy room during daytime library hours. Any proposed move is expensive beyond our means, in large part because any area housing the collection must be climate-controlled to prevent damage to valuable documents by heat, cold and humidity. The purchase or rent and remodeling of suitable quarters is vastly beyond the means of NCIGS.
To date, no other potential use of the space has been divulged.
Please join teachers, NCIGS and other interested citizens in preserving this valuable library of materials by attending the Mason City Council meeting at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 21. The library board meets at 4:15 p.m. the same day in the second floor of the board room.
Doris Smith, Mason City
Letter: Library needs genealogy club
According to USA Today, genealogy is currently the second most popular hobby in the U.S.
Despite online resources, family history isn’t becoming an armchair-only hobby. A few years ago, University of Illinois Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism professor Carla Santos described “genealogy tourists” as a fast-growing segment of leisure travelers. They’re tourists in search of their own stories. After interviewing visitors to the Genealogy Center at the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Santos described them as searching for a “generational sense of the self.”
“It starts at home, where they learn everything they can online. Then they want the tactile experience of research, of going to the library to learn more.”
“This form of tourism is growing rapidly and is increasingly popular as western societies age,” Dallen Timothy, professor at Arizona State University and editor of the Journal of Heritage Tourism.
During the last major library remodeling, the club and the library worked together, planning club space in the library as part of the library’s long-term plans. Now some club shelving has been removed at the librarian’s instructions causing irreplaceable documents to be stored on the porch of a club member.
Genealogy resources that can’t be found on the internet are a draw to the genealogist. Not all resource material can be digitized; old maps and plat books are valuable for research and information.
The genealogy group depends on membership dues for its finances and doesn’t have funding or cash flow to be able to buy or rent space elsewhere.
Library use is trending down. Libraries need to support resources that bring people in the door to justify their existence.
Library board: reverse the eviction order and support this valuable part of your community.
Patty Paul, Boerne, Texas
Letter: Act now to protect republic
I am worried for our country. If we do not get off our backside and stop this violent movement that is happening now by the far left and right, we will lose our republic and Constitution to socialism. We have a right to march and protest peacefully, but we do not have a right to violence.
As a citizen of the United States, we not only have a right to vote, but it is our duty to vote. We need to elect people who will represent us and enforce all our laws equally without a two-tier system.
In Webster's dictionary, look up the definition of a republic and socialism. Then decide which we want to be governed by. Let us act now, so we don't have to react later.
Alyce Hugeback, Hampton
Letter: Collection headed to the dump?
On June 1, Mark Suby, president of North Central Iowa Genealogical Society, received a letter from librarian Mary Markwalter. It stated: “Due to the changing space utilization needs of the library, the Mason City Public Library Board of Directors is requesting that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society remove the items owned by the Society and its members and vacate the space currently used by the Society at the Mason City Public Library by August 1, 2018.”
The Genealogy Library has been located in the MCPL since 1979. The first few years, they operated out of a few boxes but over the years through grants and donations, the library has grown to over 5,000 books. There are books on immigrants from European countries, passenger lists from ships, several sections on Iowa with histories of towns, cemetery records, church histories, plat maps, family histories, census, military records, and vital records from 1855-1940, and so much more.
It is considered a top-notch genealogy library, a place where not only citizens of Mason City and Cerro Gordo County come for information about their ancestors, but also serves the surrounding eight counties, plus people all across the country who stop in or write us.
There is renewed interest in genealogy with DNA testing and the TV show, plus, Rod Hungerford is in the library most weekdays to assist people who don’t have a computer or have no idea how to use one to find genealogy records.
So what is to happen to this valuable genealogical collection we have amassed? NCIGS is a small organization and doesn’t have money to pay rent, so will it end up in the city dump? We need help and input from the citizens of Mason City.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Keep collection at the library
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed “eviction” of the Genealogy Room at the Mason City Public Library. This Genealogy Room holds an extensive collection of genealogical materials including local, regional and state family histories, cemetery records and other related items of interest – gathered over many years. These materials are of great interest to people in the North Iowa and southern Minnesota areas. This collection is one of the most complete and most sophisticated of its type in Iowa and Minnesota. Many volunteers have spent hours collecting and collating these materials and have organized them into albums, journals and displays.
My granddaughter and I have spent hours there obtaining family records. It has been an educational experience for both of us. She, as a young girl, was able to learn of some of her ancestry and to establish a hobby of studying genealogy. I have often thought of how blessed we are to have such a wealth of information close to us in the Mason City Public Library.
It would be a shame, a tragedy to move this extensive collection to another location. Most likely, it would result in it being fragmented and located to multiple locations.
I am hopeful that the Library Board and the City Council will reconsider and give second thought in order to keep this very valuable Mason City resource in its current location.
Judy Evans, Mason City
Letter: Give offenders an either-or option
I see in the paper that due to a shortage of personnel in the military we are now going to allow people in with past drug use and other issues with the law. In the 1950s and '60s similar people were given a choice of prison or military duty when in trouble with the law. Let's save the $200 million the government is now offering in bonuses for new recruits, offer the old either-or choice to offenders, and also take some burden off our prison system.
Robert Freund, Greene
Letter: Trump is worse than expected
Donald Trump called on Attorney General Jeff Sessions, or Mr. Magoo as Trump once called him, to end the special counsel investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, just the latest in a series of actions indicating Trump believes he is above the law.
These actions have not been actions and words that we would see from an innocent man. An innocent person would fully cooperate in every way possible to expedite a conclusion and clear their name and get back to running the country. Trump has shown time and again that he intends to thwart the investigation, even at the risk of triggering a constitutional crisis.
Yet in a recent poll, 37 percent of Americans said Trump was honest and trustworthy. This also tells us that this same 37 percent from the poll are idiots and/or woefully uniformed. I am begging for Mueller to subpoena Trump's income tax returns. The only reason anyone would not release them voluntarily as all previous presidential candidates have since it has been expected over the last 50 years, is obviously because they don't want voters to know what is there. Duh?! Is the audit still ongoing after two years?
For those of us that thought that maybe after elected he would tame down and do a respectable job, you can kiss that thought goodbye. It is much worse than I could have ever imagined. He has embarrassed Americans and insulted our allies over and over and again. He represents the greatest danger this great country has been in for decades. He makes stupid Americans even more stupid! Trump has proven at least one thing: the Constitution may have given the president too much power, at least in Trump's case.
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Sanitizing the nominee's record
After the filing of the Freedom of Information Act request by the Democratic senators was denied, I became concerned about the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.
Why are the Republican senators sanitizing Kavanaugh’s government records during his service under President George W. Bush? Is it the possibility that Kavanaugh lied to the Senate prior to his confirmation in 2006? Why not turn over all the records that will show whether Kavanaugh was or was not involved in discussions about Guantamino Bay torture?
Any member of Congress, including Sen. Grassley, should be concerned enough to let the record speak for itself.
Julie Stewart Ziesman, Waukee
Letter: Find a win-win solution with library
There seems to be a great deal of conflict surrounding the genealogy society's use of a room in the Mason City Public Library. The room has been in use for the past 40 years and is lauded as one of the great collections for persons searching for their ancestors. The service is used not only by locals but by many across the state of Iowa and internationally as well. Since the availability of tracing ancestors through DNA, the process has become a phenomenon worldwide.
The service of the society is not only widely known, it has the ability to provide necessary help required by those of us who need help and are not Internet-savvy. Placing this service on the Internet is not a viable solution because the society has the guidance of a valuable person to give help to those of us who need it. Let's face it: I still recall having to leave my comfortable chair to walk across the living room and turn the knob on the television to channels 3, 6 and 10.
I don't understand why this service, which is such a gem and a star in Mason City's history, can be closed without a win-win agreement. The library board meets at the library on Aug. 21 and is open to the public. Please attend to fight to keep this service that Mason City should be proud of.
Nancy Hewett, Mason City
Letter: Appalled by library's decision
I read with a heavy heart Steve Bohnel's article about the Mason City Public Library's decision to force the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society to move out of the public library building. As both a Mason City native and as a genealogist, I am appalled at the library's decision.
Public libraries all across the country -- small and large -- know that family history researchers are among their most important patrons and supporters. Libraries have changed a lot over the past half-century, but one thing remains the same -- it is a place people can go to get help with all kinds of research.
Small nonprofit genealogy societies like NCIGS really have few options. Many small genealogy and family history societies across the Midwest rely on public libraries and historical societies for their physical existence.
Yes, there is a lot on the internet, but family history researchers know that there is no substitute for getting help from local volunteers (and professional librarians) who know the local territory. What better place than a public library?
I am a director of the Minnesota Genealogical Society, a past president of MGS, and a past director of the Association of Professional Genealogists. I graduated from Mason City High School in 1968, and have always thought the Mason City Public Library was one of the best things about Mason City -- a real gem the Mason City should be proud of.
I hope there is a happy ending to this story.
Jay Fonkert, Roseville, Minnesota
Letter: Raising my plunger to 'Urinetown'
Using comedy to present a serious subject is tricky, but the lively choreography and amazing singing talent on stage at Mason City Community Theater carry it off splendidly. The outstanding talent of both new and returning members reminds me that we don't have to travel to a big city for professional live theater; it is right here under our noses. You won't want to miss the youngest members of the cast who don't miss a beat and appear to be having the time of their lives.
So get on over to Mason City Community Theater for the remaining shows Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights at 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., and better bring a little extra change in case you need to to use "the facilities." Just kidding!
However, our donations to One Iowa North Scholarship Fund are welcome and the tips on conserving water that are posted on the walls remind us of what not to take for granted.
Beverly Butler, Mason City
Letter: Local control needed for decisions on new hog confinements
Factory farms are detrimental to public health. They contribute to hazardous water conditions where people and animals can get sick by drinking or even touching water. It makes a person think, why are so many confinements going up?
Part of the reason is because counties and local folks have no say in the construction of factory farms. Even if a community opposes them due to environmental, health or other reasons, the DNR gets the final say -- and they almost always get rubber stamped.
We need local control in every county so the people can decide what they want.
Thankfully, more people and their county supervisors are saying enough is enough! Twenty-two counties have passed resolutions or written letters requesting action from the Legislature. They are nonbinding but sent a clear message to the Statehouse that people on the ground want more protections from factory farms. Has your county taken action?
Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement is listening to people who want change. No more factory farms until we have local control and fewer than 100 impaired water bodies in Iowa.
Shannon Walker, Clarion
Letter: Confident in Timely Mission
As a past member of the Board of Directors and past employee of Timely Mission Nursing Home, I was sadden by the death of Virginia Olthoff and the mistakes that may have been made. However, it should also be noted that Timely Mission has a long history of treating residents with respect and dignity.
While no nursing home is perfect, I know that the staff and board of Timely Mission care deeply for the residents they serve. The people of Buffalo Center and surrounding communities have been very fortunate to have this facility in our community for 50 plus years.
Timely Mission has always passed yearly inspections by the State of Iowa with few or any discrepancies. The threat of the state imposing a $30,000 fine will only impose hardship on the current residents and staff. This money would need to be made up by higher fees to residents or lower employee pay. It will do nothing to fix the mistake that was made.
I sincerely believe that while Virginia may have not been treated correctly, everything necessary is being done to make sure it never happens again. The people of Buffalo Center should continue to have full confidence that their loved ones will be treated with the respect and love they so deserve.
Denny Murra, Buffalo Center
BUFFALO CENTER | Virginia Olthoff's daughter says she was a cheerful, kindhearted woman who loved to give others affectionate nicknames like "…
Letter: Pollution blame goes beyond ag
Kristen Arnold recently shared her opinion whose to blame for Iowa's pollution ("Iowa deserves better waterways," published Aug. 1). Her view was corporate farmers. My contention is she needs to evaluate her footprint first.
Does she know the water quality in the Des Moines River before and after it passes thru her community? A farmer is required to test his soils. Does she know what emissions are emitted from her car? A new John Deere tractor's engine actually has cleaner air coming out than going in. Does she know her personal trash probably goes to a landfill which as it decays, if at all, produces methane gas?
We all have ownership in our water issues. Each of us leaves a footprint on the environment each and everyday.
Instead of blaming someone else for the problem, let's focus on creating and solutions.
Brent Fedders, Mason City
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned t…
Letter: Without details, it's easy to forgive
In response to Roxann Newell's letter to the editor ("Touched by aunt's forgiveness," July 25): One should not make a judgement until they are sure they have all the facts.
Before my statement was read, I asked the judge if I could say a few words. She said yes. I told everyone that my statement was not at attack on Codie, but an attack on what Codie did. The Globe did not post that part.
Very few people besides myself and my wife knew what was going on. Many times we shared a meal with Ken, Kathy and Codie, and sometimes just to visit.
Both me and my wife would offer words of encouragement to Codie. Many times we would listen to Ken and Kathy's hopes and frustrations concerning Codie.
As far as Sharon being able to forgive Codie: Sharon did not know Codie personally due to a 35-year rift that Sharon had with Ken. The rift continued up to Ken's death.
It's easy to forgive when you don't know what's going on.
Marv Hackbart, Mason City
Letter: Lessons learned upon return to Mason City
What is wrong with these people? That's what my dear mother would say if she was alive today!
Returning after nearly half a century, I am baffled. So before I got back to whence I came, I'll throw by 50 cents worth in. Mason City's economy is nonexistent. If y'all want to kick-start Cerro Gordo (fat hill), I'd suggest the economic development council hire a jam-up grant writer instead of raising utilities and taxing the middle class for all these past foo-pas your city's council seems to dream up.
That bottle bill is no longer working. Use a closed-down plant or factory and build a state-of-the-art recycling facility. Get some people working and get rid of these flies!
Use that boarded up Marshal and Swift building a nonprofit alternative education program. Teach vocational skills, small-engine repair, welding, plumbing and such. Use Patrick's Place as a culinary school for healthy foods, growing herbs and seasonal veggies.
And now that Younkers is gone, bulldoze Southbridge! Turn it into a park, with food truck vendors and artisans. Have a splash station for summertime fun. Ice it over in the winter for outdoor skating, cocoa shacks and soup stations. The grants are out there.
Lastly and of grave concern is your court system. I cannot call it a judicial one. The plea deals or probation for crimes against the innocent and vulnerable sickens me. And I have no suggestions for that.
Dear Mother would say at times, "You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear!" Needless to say my experience has been enlightening. I've made some awesome friends and learned a lot about this weather!
Jo Parker, Mason City
Letter: Iowa deserves better waterways
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned the water was unsafe due to bacterial contamination. How disappointing for the weekend but how tragic for life!
I'm happy to pay taxes to protect public land, but now we can't even enjoy them. In Iowa where there are seven times more pigs than people, our waterways are under perpetual toxic harm. We know that corporate agriculture is the biggest contributor to water pollution in Iowa.
It doesn't have to be this way. Can you imagine the amazing recreational/tourist possibility of our rivers and public parks if our waters were pollutant-free?
Bottom line: this isn't just our swimming water, irrigating water, life-sustaining water. To get the clean water that Iowa's families deserve, we need polluters to pay to clean up the mess they made.
Kristyn Arnold, Des Moines
Letter: Prosecutors should quit making plea deals with pedophiles
No justice. It was very disheartening and disappointing to see another admitted pedophile to be given a very soft plea deal, as reported in the Globe Gazette on July 17.
This time it's Hancock County County Attorney, Robert Blake Norman, making the shameful deal with Damien Kyhl, who sexually assaulted multiple children over multiple years.
Instead of taking him to trial and being able to take this sexual offender off our streets for decades, it appears he'll be serving what could be five years of a negotiated 10-year sentence.
In no time. this pedophile will be back out and able to reoffend against our children. Also, no justice for the victims. Shameful.
We can only hope that the judge presiding in this case sees this as the dangerous plea deal this and refuses to accept it. It's past time for our county attorneys to quit making these soft plea deals with these dangerous individuals.
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: Awarding my own scholarship
To the Iowa 4-H Youth Development Program:
For several years our family has given out a scholarship to a student from West Hancock. I’ve included a couple from this year for you to view. This will be the last year based on membership in 4H. I got a lot out of FFA back when I was in school and my daughter the same with 4H. Once you caved to the gay lobby you lost my support. I’m done being told what I have to accept.
Next year’s application will be open to all kids with one simple question.
Pick two news stories that are currently hot topics and write me an opinion on each.
Far too long I have given my money to students without looking at their world view. I’m done. If all these special interest groups want to shape the world in their view I see no reason for me to fund them. I’ll fund students who think like me. I’ll be damn if I’ll write a check to a student I might see on TV protest what I believe in, be it the LGBT issue or the right to keep and bear arms.
John Johnson, Britt
Letter: This massive tax cut is a massive hoax
"Massive tax cuts for the middle class" is a hoax!
A married couple making $80,000 a year will pay about $1,600 a year less in taxes. Is that what Trump calls a massive tax cut? What are they going to do with all that extra money? How much will that increase their standard of living? Not enough to notice.
How about a couple making $120,000 a year? Their take-home pay will be about $3,200 per year more or double the first couple. Still far from "massive and spectacular."
Now let's jump to $600,000 a year. Now we are well above "middle class." This couple's tax savings amounts to $37,576 per year. Their income is five times that of the couple making $120,000, but their Trumped-up tax savings is 11.5 times as much.
The next example we double this couples income to $1,200,000 per year. Their tax savings will be $105,149 after the cut. Their income is double the previous couple, but their increased tax savings is nearly triple.
Are you getting the reality yet?
Those earning $400,000 a year and upward into the millions will save tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands to millions in taxes. But it will not stimulate the economy if not the reverse, because the very rich already have about everything they could want. The result will be the loss of tons of government revenue without the increase of jobs and income expected.
Then a Republican Congress and an insane idiot President will start talking about deep cuts in entitlement programs to balance loss of revenue. This bill was not the largest U.S. tax cut in history as Trump claimed, but the eighth. The SOTU speech sucked except that Trump was able to stay on teleprompter and not trip over his own stupidity.
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Tired of fixing jerks' actions
Just what exactly is it with white Americans these days, such as #PoolPatrolPaula, #PermitPatty and #BBQBecky who have nothing better to do with their time than to flaunt their supposed white privilege and call the police on black Americans who are doing nothing more than living normal lives, doing normal things, and even just having a good time together?
Enough already. Please, stop it. Just stop. We're tired of constantly nursing black eyes because of jerks like you.
Kevin Young, Sheffield
Letter: North Iowa Fair was awesome this year
Well done, North Iowa Fair Board and everyone else involved.
Congratulations!
The North Iowa Fair was awesome this year. What a joy to see so many people attending.
With it being free, there were so many that could enjoy it, and there was no financial burden felt for any family.
We were amazed at how many events could be attended, and the many rides.
Keep up the good work. Thanks to you all.
Harlan and Marge Baack, Mason City
Letter: Endless use of property tax money
Thank you, John Johnson, for your letter regarding the debt in Mitchell and Winnebago counties ("Thankful to live in Hancock County," Jan. 3). In the past eight years, I have argued against the use of the money gained from wind farms as an excuse to bond money for often unnecessary projects in our county. My protests fall on deaf ears. Our local supervisor verbally attacks anyone who disagrees with him. When I have used expert opinions like, Dave Swenson of Iowa State, my supervisor indicates no one knows as much as he does about these matters, period. He insists that debt is good and an asset to the county.
The existing wind farms and the newly proposed one should have been literally a wind fall for Mitchell County. Instead it has turned into an endless use of property tax money that should have gone into the general fund. Mitchell County should be one of those debt-free counties. Now we have the distinction of a county with a population of 10,000, having a debt of $32 million. If the supervisors get their way, soon to be more. Maybe we can be No. 1.
Deo Koenigs, St. Ansgar
It takes the debt of the lowest 55 counties to equal the combined debt of Winnebago and Mitc…
Letter: Kavanaugh shouldn't be confirmed
Tired of Republicans blaming Democrats for Kavanaugh. Democrats had no problem letting Gorsuch in.
Kavanaugh is a big problem and should not be confirmed. Even if he is innocent of the sexual abuse, he showed his true colors in the hearing.
He is a liar and totally biased. That will not make a good judge. In fact, I don't believe he should be the judge he is now with his total bias and lies.
Everyone knows 17 has never been a legal drinking age.
The Republicans thought nothing of not allowing President Obama to select another SCOTUS and they said if Clinton won, they would leave the SCOTUS position open for four years! They are such hypocrites!
We don't want this lying, biased person on the court!
Phyllis Maskarina, Mason City
Letter: On accusations and hypocrisy
Liberal hypocrisy....Christine Ford has accused Judge Kavanaugh of sexual assault that supposedly occurred over 36 years ago with very vague details including lack of date, place it occurred, and who may have been present. Yet many Democrat leaders believe her without question.
On the flip side, Democrats have elected Keith Ellison in Minnesota to run for Attorney General, and he holds the No. 2 position in the DNC. Mr. Ellison has been charged with assault by his ex-girlfriend, where there is a credible 911 call tape describing the assault as evidence.
Democrats still hold the Clintons in high regard despite the numerous claims of sexual assault by Bill while governor of Arkansas, and of course his affair with Monica Lewinsky while in the White House, an intern less than half his age, is well documented. Hillary verbally attacked all his victims, yet she was selected by the Democrats to run for president, and remains a major voice for the party.
Are only women who accuse Republicans not Democrats to be believed?
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: People are plenty informed on ag
After reading Mr. Hestness letter, I feel compelled to reply.
No, people are not "uninformed" in regard to farmers or ag entities. Quite the opposite in today's world, the taxpayers fully understand who feeds and accommodates the world. The taxpayers do! Without the safety net of taxpayer subsidies, entitlements, the many perks... For example, no contributing to road tax, crop insurance that is nothing more than a subsidy, depreciation, and all of the numerous ways to avoid paying income tax (the majority of farmers operate at a loss most of the time....right?)...there would not be farmers! Today, taxpayers are the real backbone of agriculture.
Yes, the farmer has long hours with spring planting and fall harvest. It certainly is not a 52 weeks out-of-the-year job. I wonder, how many farmers would punch a time clock every day, week after week, year after year? This is what the majority of laboring workers are required to do, plus many have required overtime hours, meaning weekends. If you are fortunate enough to not punch a time clock, and happen to be in management, that isn't just a spring or fall position either! If a worker loses his job, nobody is there to bail him out!
Now about animals raised in humane conditions: let them have free range. That is the only truly humane way. Enough of the confinements, before our once pristine state is totally taken away because of greed and power.
When you travel the countryside, I really do not see too many struggling farmers, as there homes and farms pay witness to that, but if you are struggling, then possibly, when you have those "over the top" years, better stick some back for a lean year!
Myrna Marnin, Mason City
Letter: Mohawk should remain a fixture
I do not understand why one person's complaint/opinion (LeAnne Clausen seeking publicity and her name in the paper), should result in any action directed to renaming our high school's athletic teams. The Mohawks have been Mason City's mascot and team name for nearly 100 years, and now, an unorthodox pastor is claiming reason to suggest that name be changed.
I am 69 years old and have never in my lifetime heard anyone complain about the Mason City school system mascot or team name, that is unless they were just beaten by a Mohawk team in a sporting event. So now Leanne is talking to Mohawk representatives to get their take on the issue and stirring up more publicity, this time on the front page of the Globe, above the fold yet (prime space). Seems to me the pastor should be concentrating on the needs of her flock.
Despite the claim that the Mohawk Nation had "no connection to Iowa," if true, does that mean we should not be able to honor them if we choose. I say no! I appreciate, honor, and respect daily our military personnel (hero warriors) and never think about whether they are associated with my specific geographic area, because their dedication, skills, and honor are deserving of my gratitude and respect. The same is true of the Mohawk Nation and Mason City's choice to honor them since 1925.
Maybe Leanne thinks that Texans only live in Texas, or all Angels and Saints are in Los Angeles and New Orleans, or that Detroit is a natural habitat for Lions. Really, it makes no difference. The Mohawks have been at home in Mason City for nearly 100 years and should remain a fixture there for another 100 years.
Thomas Frank, Mason City
Letter: Turn off Fox News at night
Why does Trump claim NBC, CBS, ABC, and CNN and the other reliable news media as "fake news" and that only Fox News reports the truth? Do you really buy into that? Trump supporters do!
Fox News people, such as Chris Wallace, Shephard Smith, Neil Cavuto, and White House correspondent John Roberts and a few others, are generally fair and unbiased, but at night, their programming turns into a politically biased, lying, right-wing fiasco. Anyone who is pretty well-informed and reasonable in their thinking, and at least half-way intelligent, would see that quickly. But the regular viewers are hearing what they want to hear and watching with blinders on. The price they pay is political and factual ignorance.
In covering politics, CNN covers all points of view and brings in political and non-political experts from many fields, Democrat, Republican, and non-partisan to discuss and debate issues. I don't see this approach with Fox News. Hosts such as Tucker Carlson, Laura Ingram, Jeanine Pirro (disgusting) Shawn Hannity and a couple of other goons, are way far right. Hannity makes $36 million a year and has net worth of over $80 million. It is no wonder he loves the Trump tax cuts for the very rich, while the middle class takes it in the shorts from Republicans once again.
It is my belief that when the Mueller investigation ends the Trump presidency will end. Justice and the law must prevail to save this greatest country ever and its institutions and way of life that Trump threatens. Republicans, he is going to tear your party apart!
In closing, I would like to direct you to a Fox News segment of May 4 by Fox News host Neil Cavuto that is exemplary. Just google "Fox News host Neil Cavuto blasts Trump for 4 straight minutes."
Steven Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Trump earned the browbeating
Meghan McCain completely and thoroughly destroyed Cadet Bone Spurs in the eulogy she gave for her father, tearing him limb from limb. I sincerely trust that Ivanka and Jared were forced to skulk their way out of the Washington National Cathedral with their tails between their legs after the verbal browbeating their spoiled-brat, man-child father so richly deserved.
Kevin Young, Sheffield
Letters to the editor: Wrong about the left, tyrants, candidates, health care
Letter: Writer has it wrong about the left
This is in response to John Johnson's letter regarding the left's supposedly hypocritical stance on border control versus gun control.
First off, most people on the left do not have any problem with having a border that is safe and secure, both for the sake of the citizens of the United States as well as the citizens of Mexico. Our issue with border control relates more to how some politicians choose to implement those security measures, and the ideas they have to try and solve the problem (building a wall that will do nothing to actually stop people from coming here, for instance, and which would be a complete waste of money that could be put to much better use).
We also take issue with the nasty rhetoric used by some to describe immigrants. Whether they're here legally or not, they deserve to be treated like human beings. Stereotyping and discriminating against them is not the way to tackle the issue.
Second, an immigrant's legal status does not have any bearing whatsoever on how likely they are to commit murder. That's not how it works. The vast majority of undocumented/illegal immigrants are non-violent. Besides that, plenty of people have been killed by citizens who were either born and raised in this country or came here legally, too.
Finally, John, if you want your view points to be taken seriously and respected, maybe drop the snide tone and dismissal of "lefties", as well as the jabs at Hogg. Just saying.
Angela Niles, Mason City
Letter: Tyrants can't defame the free press
You may remember the Pentagon Papers case. The decision from the Supreme Court shows us why we can't have a delusional tyrant defame the free press. From Justice Black, concurring with Justice Douglas regarding New York Times v. United States:
"In the First Amendment, the Founding Fathers gave the free press the protection it must have to fulfill its essential role in our democracy. The press was to serve the governed, not the governors. The Government's power to censor the press was abolished so that the press would remain forever free to censure the Government. The press was protected so that it could bare the secrets of government and inform the people.
"Only a free and unrestrained press can effectively expose deception in government. And paramount among the responsibilities of a free press is the duty to prevent any part of the government from deceiving the people and sending them off to distant lands to die of foreign fevers and foreign shot and shell.
"In my view, far from deserving condemnation for their courageous reporting, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and other newspapers should be commended for serving the purpose that the Founding Fathers saw so clearly. In revealing the workings of government that led to the Vietnam war, the newspapers nobly did precisely that which the Founders hoped and trusted they would do."
Paul Barenthin, Northwood
Letter: Albert Lea regains control of health care
It has been over a year since we started our journey to save Albert Lea's health care. We have rallied, lobbied, raised funds, attended countless meetings, written letters, called politicians and visited the state capitol. I and several others even learned how to tweet!
We are fortunate that Save Our Healthcare has the support of both city and county. There are many brilliant, determined and compassionate people working together to accomplish our goal to regain control of our health care.
Have you ever heard the song “Unanswered Prayers?" I believe that we will live to appreciate the turn of events that started a year ago. Let go of the past and look to the future! In the meantime, we still have ER, clinic, same-day surgery, Health Reach, and cancer center. Mayo will provide surgery here until 2019 and baby delivery until 2020. Soon Mayo will add inpatient behavioral health to treat the mentally ill (a disease like cancer or diabetes; with proper care, there is much hope.)
We are now in the first phase with the consulting firm that will guide us in restoring our lost services. We have had many calls from potential providers that are interested in our endeavor. They recognize that at the intersection of two interstates lies a beautiful city with caring residents, an historic downtown, vibrant businesses and thriving education institutions. They see a Blue Zone community with walking trails, bike trails, parks, gorgeous lakes, beautiful assisted living centers, and much more.
Remember that you are an important part of our success.
Merilynn Linde, Albert Lea, Minn.
Letter: Kavanaugh is the right pick
The process for confirming President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee has started. As a member of Concerned Women for America of Iowa, I support the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh.
Kavanaugh was confirmed to the D.C. Circuit Court in 2006, and his record is exemplary, supporting the Constitution and its original intent. Not only does his record show that he is a guardian of our liberties as spelled out in the Constitution, he is highly regarded by those with whom he has worked. He has an extensive resume from clerking in the Ninth and Third Circuit Courts to serving as associate counsel and senior associate counsel to President George W. Bush.
Alberto R. Gonzales, former Attorney General of the United States, has remarked that Kavanaugh understands the appropriate role of a judge, that he is disciplined and not arrogant.
Kavanaugh is the kind of individual that I want as a public servant. He has demonstrated that he bases his rulings within the confines of the Constitution and that he is a conservator of liberty. He is highly capable, and I believe he is an excellent nominee for the Supreme Court.
Carol A. Evers, Riverside
Letter: More to the county treasurer race
Oh Skipper, there you go again! While there are certainly twists in this year’s elections, there are many more twists than what's been reported.
When writing about the challenge to incumbent Pat Wright who has been treasurer for eight years, and worked in that office for 40, you stated Natasha Lewerke was fired from the Treasurer’s office “for an error in dispersal of funds involving car dealerships.” The Globe Gazette newspaper reported on June 2016 that the State's audit revealed "based on the DOT's calculation, a dealership and a company performing upfitting avoided paying approximately $283,867.” That’s one heck of an error; it wasn’t a dispersal. I think it was one dealership and one company that turned chassis into saleable trucks; no cars involved. The devil’s in the details.
I’ve got to admit that Natasha is not short on moxie, responding to her termination by suing Cerro Gordo County, Pat Wright as treasurer and Pat Wright personally. The case was dismissed with prejudice. "The lawsuit continued to be drug out [sic] and it was most important for me to be able to run for this position," Lewerke said. "Pursuing my dream to be treasurer is much bigger than any lawsuit." I guess so! Her signs just say “County Treasurer Natasha Lewerke."
Skipper got one part very right, people are not real aware of county elections. Next time you look at one of Natasha’s signs, imagine an uninformed voter seeing it. Doesn’t she appear to be the incumbent? “Re-elect Pat Wright for Treasurer” seems a bit more forthright.
Oh well, this year it seems that the Republicans are abounding in truthiness … like attributing a political portfolio to a first-time candidate because her husband’s brother won a seat. My son-in-law’s a brewer; think Fat Hill will let me run their vats?
Tracy Smith, Clear Lake
Letter: Left can't have it both ways
Hey lefties, question: If gun control is the answer to school shootings, would not border control be the answer to illegals killing American citizens?
And before you whine about politicizing the death of Mollie Tibbetts at the hands of an illegal immigrant, you and your happy cohorts in the media need to look at yourself and your gushing support the likes of David “cameraman” Hogg. Newspapers ran stories covering his nationwide bus tour.
John Johnson, Britt
Letter: Wife-beaters, child-abusers shouldn't have guns
In 2014, the Iowa Gun Owners sent their Federal Candidate survey to then candidate Rod Blum. They asked Rod Blum if he supports repealing the “Lautenberg Domestic Misdemeanor Gun Ban.” The Lautenberg Amendment, named after Sen. Frank Lautenberg, made it illegal for convicted domestic abusers to buy a gun. Domestic abuse victims need such protections because these victims are five times as likely to end up dead if their abuser can access a gun. Sen. Lautenberg argued that wife-beaters and child-abusers should not have guns. But Rod Blum wanted to repeal the Lautenberg Amendment, in essence saying, wife-beaters and child-abusers should have guns.
On this same survey, Blum vowed to oppose any expansion of background checks to purchase a firearm. Those who currently wish to purchase guns or ammo without undergoing a background check can do so through private gun sales or over the internet. Most gun owners and NRA members want universal background checks. They support universal background checks because, as law-abiding citizens, they do not want criminals and people with mental health issues to access guns. But Rod Blum opposed universal background checks.
In April 2017, I spoke to Rep. Blum in person. I wrote down questions about Blum’s survey answers, gave him the paper with my contact info, and asked him to respond to these questions. Blum took the paper, shook my hand, looked me in the eye, and promised to respond to these questions. Rod Blum never contacted me about this or answered my questions. As a concerned citizen, I do not want women and children who have suffered abuse to be shot by their abusers. And as a voter, I do not want a representative who tells me to my face he will answer these questions, and then breaks that promise.
Caleb Gates, Cedar Rapids
Letter: Library conflict is about power
From the time Mary Markwalter took over at the library, she has been trying to get the society out of there. One of the first things she did was to remove about half of their shelving and put it in another room. It was not used for anything, just sitting there empty. But she asserted her authority.
She has not been friendly to the people working in the room (ask some of the genealogy members), being rude and constantly remarking how the society was taking up room, time and library assets while doing nothing meaningful.
Mary enjoys power, and some of us in the society wonder if she really wants (or needs) the room, or whether it's just another attempt to gain total control over her little fiefdom. She runs the building like a prison, which is another example of her desire for power. So I wish everyone would just step back, take a deep breath, and ask the real purpose in this proposed change. Is there a real purpose in this, or just another step in Mary's little game of total control?
Also consider this: once she gets the genealogy department out of there, how long before she sets her sights on the archives room?
The library is a needed, respected and loved part of Mason City. But it should not be run on someone's ego or desire for authority.
Lowell Swenson, Mason City
Letter: Sour grapes over baseball title
Congratulations to Mason City Newman on its baseball championship this summer. However, I wonder if it is somewhat tainted. While attending a Lisbon game this summer, I overheard a fan say, "Everyone hates Newman because they recruit players." It is evidently legal in Iowa but could be considered morally objectionable.
Putting all that aside, here is my main reason for this letter. I was not able to attend the championship game in Des Moines but was kept apprised of the progress. When hearing that my grandson, Brett Givens, who pitched for Lisbon, hit three batters in the first inning, it raised a question mark for me. Is the Newman coach teaching his players to get hit by pitches? My grandson does not throw exceptionally fast but is very accurate, can spot his pitches very well and did not hit another batter all year in over 15 games pitched.
While looking at Iowa high school baseball statistics, I noticed that Newman pitches were hit by pitches 106 times and that no other team in all of Iowa was hit 100 times. I wonder if Newman would have won as many games if it hadn't been "lucky" enough to for the players to get hit by pitches at possibly exact opportune times.
One wonders if this is really luck or a set pattern by a super egotistical coach who wants to win at any and all costs? If so, I hope there's not a "slip up" one of these years and one of his players gets seriously injured. Also, I wonder if the Iowa High School Athletic Association should initiate an investigation, and could a reprimand, suspension or worse be in order?
James Givens, Rio Hondo, Texas
Letter: Library board won't compromise
Update on genealogy library (GL) eviction: Thirty-five supporters attended the library board meeting on Aug. 21. Twelve or more spoke 75 minutes on the importance of keeping the GL intact in its present location in the MCPL, plus we'd gathered 725 signatures on a petition. The board tabled it, as three members were absent. Two members stated they did not see the necessity of voting on this matter, as they had already voted on it. (May 5, voted to evict the GL). They approved an extension until Sept. 30, but told us to continue looking for alternate space.
City Council wants the two groups to reach a compromise. The Library Board proposes: 1) NCIGS turn ownership of our collection over to the MCPL. 2) The collection would be moved to another area. (Library director stated in July they only had room for 500 of our 5000 items.) 3) Our members can apply to become volunteers to conduct genealogy searches. (Impossible with 90 percent of the collection missing.) NCIGS Board learned of this proposal the night before the meeting. It was never formally sent. The "stinger" is the room is to become a meeting room with a fee. That is more important than a genealogy library?
NCIGS proposes: 1) GL be left as is, but renamed the Genealogy and History Center and operated by NCIGS. (MCPL is almost totally lacking in history resources, which the GL has); 2) NCIGS will pay $1,200 a year (FY2018 the library received $1,315 for all rented rooms). The Globe Gazette Editorial Board stated NCIGS should not have free space. We were never asked to pay anything.
Now, who has been willing to compromise? We need the public to speak up for us. Please contact your city councilman. Thanks for your support.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Reynolds identifies with farmers
Gov. Reynolds understands Iowa farmers. She has signed into law affordable health care for farmers, testifying to the EPA in favor of Iowa's biofuel industry, and pressing President Trump's administration to support ethanol production and expand markets for Iowa farmers among this growing trade war.
Fred Hubbell's criticism of Gov. Reynolds as "nothing more than politics" shows an extreme negligence of the farming community.
This November, I am supporting our Governor, Kim Reynolds.
Nancy Rockman, Mason City
Letter: Appreciate work by genealogy volunteers
I've been saddened to read about the Mason City Public Library's threat of removing the genealogical collection from the building. The collection represents unknown long hours, days and years of hard work done by dedicated volunteers to preserve such important history for future generations.
Many people do not become interested in researching their family lineage until mid-life when they have more time and motivation to do the research. Libraries are the logical places for people to seek such help, as I did when finding our family's past.
I have used the MCPL, Forest City Public Library, St. Olaf College library and archives, plus many other resources in the past. I also used the local newspaper archives to obtain obituaries that were put on index cards in both the Lake Mills and Forest City libraries. This information has helped many people, locally and out-of-state, to flush out family ancestors. It has been exciting to connect descendants to early ancestors who were early residents of my hometown of Lake Mills.
A town's genealogical collections should be considered a "real gem" in the library collection, with those using it appreciating the volunteers' service of love by the preservation of the town/community's history for future generations.
Elaine Bergan, Northwood
Letter: Candidates must address climate change
Of all the issues being discussed and debated in the run up to mid-term elections, it is quite disheartening that global warming and climate change are hardly mentioned at all.
Tariffs and immigration reform are, of course, pressing issues — they have an impact on our daily lives, and should be addressed. But is there anything more urgent than working together to find ways to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and at least attempt to mitigate the catastrophic effects of global warming, such as melting polar ice, rising sea levels, and drought? Aren’t we already seeing some of these effects in extreme weather conditions, wildfires, and massively destructive hurricanes?
I am encouraged by the efforts of people like Don Hofstrand, providing reliable information about the causes and effects of global warming, and by groups such as the Citizens Climate Lobby, organizing ordinary citizens, and helping us use the power of our voice and our vote to demand concrete actions by those we have elected to represent us at all levels of government.
Whether it is at a political rally or town hall meeting or just in conversation at the coffee shop, we should keep this issue out front. It should not be said by our children or by future generations that we were bystanders or silent witnesses to one of the most catastrophic disasters facing humankind. Please call, write, email, or speak directly to those we have elected to represent our voice, and to those who are seeking your vote, and let them know how important this issue to you.
Paul Collier, Mason City
Letter: Materials belong at the library
I am deeply disappointed and dismayed that the Mason City Public Library Board and Director Mary Markwalter are demanding that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society vacate the library's Genealogy Room, which houses over 5,000 historical reference materials relating to genealogy. While some of the items can be found online, many others are accessible only in print.
According to my (print) Webster's dictionary, a library is "a place where literary and artistic materials such as books, periodicals, newspapers, pamphlets, prints, records, and tapes are kept for reading, reference, or lending." Furthermore, the collection is a natural extension of the library's historical archives; both may be referenced by the same users. Properly promoted, the two sections can enhance the library's fine reputation.
In addition to personal interest, genealogy is a topic often assigned to students from elementary level through post-high school. Social studies and history teachers and their students often visit the collection.
NCIGS is a nonprofit organization maintained by volunteers who also staff the genealogy room during daytime library hours. Any proposed move is expensive beyond our means, in large part because any area housing the collection must be climate-controlled to prevent damage to valuable documents by heat, cold and humidity. The purchase or rent and remodeling of suitable quarters is vastly beyond the means of NCIGS.
To date, no other potential use of the space has been divulged.
Please join teachers, NCIGS and other interested citizens in preserving this valuable library of materials by attending the Mason City Council meeting at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 21. The library board meets at 4:15 p.m. the same day in the second floor of the board room.
Doris Smith, Mason City
Letter: Library needs genealogy club
According to USA Today, genealogy is currently the second most popular hobby in the U.S.
Despite online resources, family history isn’t becoming an armchair-only hobby. A few years ago, University of Illinois Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism professor Carla Santos described “genealogy tourists” as a fast-growing segment of leisure travelers. They’re tourists in search of their own stories. After interviewing visitors to the Genealogy Center at the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Santos described them as searching for a “generational sense of the self.”
“It starts at home, where they learn everything they can online. Then they want the tactile experience of research, of going to the library to learn more.”
“This form of tourism is growing rapidly and is increasingly popular as western societies age,” Dallen Timothy, professor at Arizona State University and editor of the Journal of Heritage Tourism.
During the last major library remodeling, the club and the library worked together, planning club space in the library as part of the library’s long-term plans. Now some club shelving has been removed at the librarian’s instructions causing irreplaceable documents to be stored on the porch of a club member.
Genealogy resources that can’t be found on the internet are a draw to the genealogist. Not all resource material can be digitized; old maps and plat books are valuable for research and information.
The genealogy group depends on membership dues for its finances and doesn’t have funding or cash flow to be able to buy or rent space elsewhere.
Library use is trending down. Libraries need to support resources that bring people in the door to justify their existence.
Library board: reverse the eviction order and support this valuable part of your community.
Patty Paul, Boerne, Texas
Letter: Act now to protect republic
I am worried for our country. If we do not get off our backside and stop this violent movement that is happening now by the far left and right, we will lose our republic and Constitution to socialism. We have a right to march and protest peacefully, but we do not have a right to violence.
As a citizen of the United States, we not only have a right to vote, but it is our duty to vote. We need to elect people who will represent us and enforce all our laws equally without a two-tier system.
In Webster's dictionary, look up the definition of a republic and socialism. Then decide which we want to be governed by. Let us act now, so we don't have to react later.
Alyce Hugeback, Hampton
Letter: Collection headed to the dump?
On June 1, Mark Suby, president of North Central Iowa Genealogical Society, received a letter from librarian Mary Markwalter. It stated: “Due to the changing space utilization needs of the library, the Mason City Public Library Board of Directors is requesting that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society remove the items owned by the Society and its members and vacate the space currently used by the Society at the Mason City Public Library by August 1, 2018.”
The Genealogy Library has been located in the MCPL since 1979. The first few years, they operated out of a few boxes but over the years through grants and donations, the library has grown to over 5,000 books. There are books on immigrants from European countries, passenger lists from ships, several sections on Iowa with histories of towns, cemetery records, church histories, plat maps, family histories, census, military records, and vital records from 1855-1940, and so much more.
It is considered a top-notch genealogy library, a place where not only citizens of Mason City and Cerro Gordo County come for information about their ancestors, but also serves the surrounding eight counties, plus people all across the country who stop in or write us.
There is renewed interest in genealogy with DNA testing and the TV show, plus, Rod Hungerford is in the library most weekdays to assist people who don’t have a computer or have no idea how to use one to find genealogy records.
So what is to happen to this valuable genealogical collection we have amassed? NCIGS is a small organization and doesn’t have money to pay rent, so will it end up in the city dump? We need help and input from the citizens of Mason City.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Keep collection at the library
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed “eviction” of the Genealogy Room at the Mason City Public Library. This Genealogy Room holds an extensive collection of genealogical materials including local, regional and state family histories, cemetery records and other related items of interest – gathered over many years. These materials are of great interest to people in the North Iowa and southern Minnesota areas. This collection is one of the most complete and most sophisticated of its type in Iowa and Minnesota. Many volunteers have spent hours collecting and collating these materials and have organized them into albums, journals and displays.
My granddaughter and I have spent hours there obtaining family records. It has been an educational experience for both of us. She, as a young girl, was able to learn of some of her ancestry and to establish a hobby of studying genealogy. I have often thought of how blessed we are to have such a wealth of information close to us in the Mason City Public Library.
It would be a shame, a tragedy to move this extensive collection to another location. Most likely, it would result in it being fragmented and located to multiple locations.
I am hopeful that the Library Board and the City Council will reconsider and give second thought in order to keep this very valuable Mason City resource in its current location.
Judy Evans, Mason City
Letter: Give offenders an either-or option
I see in the paper that due to a shortage of personnel in the military we are now going to allow people in with past drug use and other issues with the law. In the 1950s and '60s similar people were given a choice of prison or military duty when in trouble with the law. Let's save the $200 million the government is now offering in bonuses for new recruits, offer the old either-or choice to offenders, and also take some burden off our prison system.
Robert Freund, Greene
Letter: Trump is worse than expected
Donald Trump called on Attorney General Jeff Sessions, or Mr. Magoo as Trump once called him, to end the special counsel investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, just the latest in a series of actions indicating Trump believes he is above the law.
These actions have not been actions and words that we would see from an innocent man. An innocent person would fully cooperate in every way possible to expedite a conclusion and clear their name and get back to running the country. Trump has shown time and again that he intends to thwart the investigation, even at the risk of triggering a constitutional crisis.
Yet in a recent poll, 37 percent of Americans said Trump was honest and trustworthy. This also tells us that this same 37 percent from the poll are idiots and/or woefully uniformed. I am begging for Mueller to subpoena Trump's income tax returns. The only reason anyone would not release them voluntarily as all previous presidential candidates have since it has been expected over the last 50 years, is obviously because they don't want voters to know what is there. Duh?! Is the audit still ongoing after two years?
For those of us that thought that maybe after elected he would tame down and do a respectable job, you can kiss that thought goodbye. It is much worse than I could have ever imagined. He has embarrassed Americans and insulted our allies over and over and again. He represents the greatest danger this great country has been in for decades. He makes stupid Americans even more stupid! Trump has proven at least one thing: the Constitution may have given the president too much power, at least in Trump's case.
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Sanitizing the nominee's record
After the filing of the Freedom of Information Act request by the Democratic senators was denied, I became concerned about the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.
Why are the Republican senators sanitizing Kavanaugh’s government records during his service under President George W. Bush? Is it the possibility that Kavanaugh lied to the Senate prior to his confirmation in 2006? Why not turn over all the records that will show whether Kavanaugh was or was not involved in discussions about Guantamino Bay torture?
Any member of Congress, including Sen. Grassley, should be concerned enough to let the record speak for itself.
Julie Stewart Ziesman, Waukee
Letter: Find a win-win solution with library
There seems to be a great deal of conflict surrounding the genealogy society's use of a room in the Mason City Public Library. The room has been in use for the past 40 years and is lauded as one of the great collections for persons searching for their ancestors. The service is used not only by locals but by many across the state of Iowa and internationally as well. Since the availability of tracing ancestors through DNA, the process has become a phenomenon worldwide.
The service of the society is not only widely known, it has the ability to provide necessary help required by those of us who need help and are not Internet-savvy. Placing this service on the Internet is not a viable solution because the society has the guidance of a valuable person to give help to those of us who need it. Let's face it: I still recall having to leave my comfortable chair to walk across the living room and turn the knob on the television to channels 3, 6 and 10.
I don't understand why this service, which is such a gem and a star in Mason City's history, can be closed without a win-win agreement. The library board meets at the library on Aug. 21 and is open to the public. Please attend to fight to keep this service that Mason City should be proud of.
Nancy Hewett, Mason City
Letter: Appalled by library's decision
I read with a heavy heart Steve Bohnel's article about the Mason City Public Library's decision to force the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society to move out of the public library building. As both a Mason City native and as a genealogist, I am appalled at the library's decision.
Public libraries all across the country -- small and large -- know that family history researchers are among their most important patrons and supporters. Libraries have changed a lot over the past half-century, but one thing remains the same -- it is a place people can go to get help with all kinds of research.
Small nonprofit genealogy societies like NCIGS really have few options. Many small genealogy and family history societies across the Midwest rely on public libraries and historical societies for their physical existence.
Yes, there is a lot on the internet, but family history researchers know that there is no substitute for getting help from local volunteers (and professional librarians) who know the local territory. What better place than a public library?
I am a director of the Minnesota Genealogical Society, a past president of MGS, and a past director of the Association of Professional Genealogists. I graduated from Mason City High School in 1968, and have always thought the Mason City Public Library was one of the best things about Mason City -- a real gem the Mason City should be proud of.
I hope there is a happy ending to this story.
Jay Fonkert, Roseville, Minnesota
Letter: Raising my plunger to 'Urinetown'
Using comedy to present a serious subject is tricky, but the lively choreography and amazing singing talent on stage at Mason City Community Theater carry it off splendidly. The outstanding talent of both new and returning members reminds me that we don't have to travel to a big city for professional live theater; it is right here under our noses. You won't want to miss the youngest members of the cast who don't miss a beat and appear to be having the time of their lives.
So get on over to Mason City Community Theater for the remaining shows Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights at 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., and better bring a little extra change in case you need to to use "the facilities." Just kidding!
However, our donations to One Iowa North Scholarship Fund are welcome and the tips on conserving water that are posted on the walls remind us of what not to take for granted.
Beverly Butler, Mason City
Letter: Local control needed for decisions on new hog confinements
Factory farms are detrimental to public health. They contribute to hazardous water conditions where people and animals can get sick by drinking or even touching water. It makes a person think, why are so many confinements going up?
Part of the reason is because counties and local folks have no say in the construction of factory farms. Even if a community opposes them due to environmental, health or other reasons, the DNR gets the final say -- and they almost always get rubber stamped.
We need local control in every county so the people can decide what they want.
Thankfully, more people and their county supervisors are saying enough is enough! Twenty-two counties have passed resolutions or written letters requesting action from the Legislature. They are nonbinding but sent a clear message to the Statehouse that people on the ground want more protections from factory farms. Has your county taken action?
Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement is listening to people who want change. No more factory farms until we have local control and fewer than 100 impaired water bodies in Iowa.
Shannon Walker, Clarion
Letter: Confident in Timely Mission
As a past member of the Board of Directors and past employee of Timely Mission Nursing Home, I was sadden by the death of Virginia Olthoff and the mistakes that may have been made. However, it should also be noted that Timely Mission has a long history of treating residents with respect and dignity.
While no nursing home is perfect, I know that the staff and board of Timely Mission care deeply for the residents they serve. The people of Buffalo Center and surrounding communities have been very fortunate to have this facility in our community for 50 plus years.
Timely Mission has always passed yearly inspections by the State of Iowa with few or any discrepancies. The threat of the state imposing a $30,000 fine will only impose hardship on the current residents and staff. This money would need to be made up by higher fees to residents or lower employee pay. It will do nothing to fix the mistake that was made.
I sincerely believe that while Virginia may have not been treated correctly, everything necessary is being done to make sure it never happens again. The people of Buffalo Center should continue to have full confidence that their loved ones will be treated with the respect and love they so deserve.
Denny Murra, Buffalo Center
BUFFALO CENTER | Virginia Olthoff's daughter says she was a cheerful, kindhearted woman who loved to give others affectionate nicknames like "…
Letter: Pollution blame goes beyond ag
Kristen Arnold recently shared her opinion whose to blame for Iowa's pollution ("Iowa deserves better waterways," published Aug. 1). Her view was corporate farmers. My contention is she needs to evaluate her footprint first.
Does she know the water quality in the Des Moines River before and after it passes thru her community? A farmer is required to test his soils. Does she know what emissions are emitted from her car? A new John Deere tractor's engine actually has cleaner air coming out than going in. Does she know her personal trash probably goes to a landfill which as it decays, if at all, produces methane gas?
We all have ownership in our water issues. Each of us leaves a footprint on the environment each and everyday.
Instead of blaming someone else for the problem, let's focus on creating and solutions.
Brent Fedders, Mason City
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned t…
Letter: Without details, it's easy to forgive
In response to Roxann Newell's letter to the editor ("Touched by aunt's forgiveness," July 25): One should not make a judgement until they are sure they have all the facts.
Before my statement was read, I asked the judge if I could say a few words. She said yes. I told everyone that my statement was not at attack on Codie, but an attack on what Codie did. The Globe did not post that part.
Very few people besides myself and my wife knew what was going on. Many times we shared a meal with Ken, Kathy and Codie, and sometimes just to visit.
Both me and my wife would offer words of encouragement to Codie. Many times we would listen to Ken and Kathy's hopes and frustrations concerning Codie.
As far as Sharon being able to forgive Codie: Sharon did not know Codie personally due to a 35-year rift that Sharon had with Ken. The rift continued up to Ken's death.
It's easy to forgive when you don't know what's going on.
Marv Hackbart, Mason City
Letter: Lessons learned upon return to Mason City
What is wrong with these people? That's what my dear mother would say if she was alive today!
Returning after nearly half a century, I am baffled. So before I got back to whence I came, I'll throw by 50 cents worth in. Mason City's economy is nonexistent. If y'all want to kick-start Cerro Gordo (fat hill), I'd suggest the economic development council hire a jam-up grant writer instead of raising utilities and taxing the middle class for all these past foo-pas your city's council seems to dream up.
That bottle bill is no longer working. Use a closed-down plant or factory and build a state-of-the-art recycling facility. Get some people working and get rid of these flies!
Use that boarded up Marshal and Swift building a nonprofit alternative education program. Teach vocational skills, small-engine repair, welding, plumbing and such. Use Patrick's Place as a culinary school for healthy foods, growing herbs and seasonal veggies.
And now that Younkers is gone, bulldoze Southbridge! Turn it into a park, with food truck vendors and artisans. Have a splash station for summertime fun. Ice it over in the winter for outdoor skating, cocoa shacks and soup stations. The grants are out there.
Lastly and of grave concern is your court system. I cannot call it a judicial one. The plea deals or probation for crimes against the innocent and vulnerable sickens me. And I have no suggestions for that.
Dear Mother would say at times, "You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear!" Needless to say my experience has been enlightening. I've made some awesome friends and learned a lot about this weather!
Jo Parker, Mason City
Letter: Iowa deserves better waterways
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned the water was unsafe due to bacterial contamination. How disappointing for the weekend but how tragic for life!
I'm happy to pay taxes to protect public land, but now we can't even enjoy them. In Iowa where there are seven times more pigs than people, our waterways are under perpetual toxic harm. We know that corporate agriculture is the biggest contributor to water pollution in Iowa.
It doesn't have to be this way. Can you imagine the amazing recreational/tourist possibility of our rivers and public parks if our waters were pollutant-free?
Bottom line: this isn't just our swimming water, irrigating water, life-sustaining water. To get the clean water that Iowa's families deserve, we need polluters to pay to clean up the mess they made.
Kristyn Arnold, Des Moines
Letter: Prosecutors should quit making plea deals with pedophiles
No justice. It was very disheartening and disappointing to see another admitted pedophile to be given a very soft plea deal, as reported in the Globe Gazette on July 17.
This time it's Hancock County County Attorney, Robert Blake Norman, making the shameful deal with Damien Kyhl, who sexually assaulted multiple children over multiple years.
Instead of taking him to trial and being able to take this sexual offender off our streets for decades, it appears he'll be serving what could be five years of a negotiated 10-year sentence.
In no time. this pedophile will be back out and able to reoffend against our children. Also, no justice for the victims. Shameful.
We can only hope that the judge presiding in this case sees this as the dangerous plea deal this and refuses to accept it. It's past time for our county attorneys to quit making these soft plea deals with these dangerous individuals.
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: Trump is worse than expected
Donald Trump called on Attorney General Jeff Sessions, or Mr. Magoo as Trump once called him, to end the special counsel investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, just the latest in a series of actions indicating Trump believes he is above the law.
These actions have not been actions and words that we would see from an innocent man. An innocent person would fully cooperate in every way possible to expedite a conclusion and clear their name and get back to running the country. Trump has shown time and again that he intends to thwart the investigation, even at the risk of triggering a constitutional crisis.
Yet in a recent poll, 37 percent of Americans said Trump was honest and trustworthy. This also tells us that this same 37 percent from the poll are idiots and/or woefully uniformed. I am begging for Mueller to subpoena Trump's income tax returns. The only reason anyone would not release them voluntarily as all previous presidential candidates have since it has been expected over the last 50 years, is obviously because they don't want voters to know what is there. Duh?! Is the audit still ongoing after two years?
For those of us that thought that maybe after elected he would tame down and do a respectable job, you can kiss that thought goodbye. It is much worse than I could have ever imagined. He has embarrassed Americans and insulted our allies over and over and again. He represents the greatest danger this great country has been in for decades. He makes stupid Americans even more stupid! Trump has proven at least one thing: the Constitution may have given the president too much power, at least in Trump's case.
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Spencer student feels twisted over racism charge
Being a member of the high school student section, I believe that our side of the story needs to be heard ("Racism charge spoils game," Jan. 26).
The USA theme was just one of many that we have done throughout the season, as well as many others against various teams in our conference. No racism was intended, we did not chant "USA" or "Go back where you came from." There were no voices of the Storm Lake student section that chanted back at us, or of one of their players that received a technical foul for the words he spoke.
I feel that our support for our basketball players has definitely been twisted at least nine different ways. We had a theme that shows the colors of our country. The key dangling was directed at one student of the opposing team who reportedly stole a car; we did not chant anything racist.
I cannot speak for everyone, but I know that our student section as a whole would not chant something to be seen as racist. We have minorities in our school, even though we are majority Caucasian. We know how to act respectful and are not racist toward minorities in our own school and of the surrounding communities.
Morgan Roberts, Spencer
Letter: Trump wants U.S. to prosper
After reading a letter to the editor in the Globe Gazette, I felt very strongly the need to defend those of us Trump supporters who were "hornswaggled" or who were put in the box of Deplorables.
First I have to say that after eight long years, we finally have a president that honestly loves our great country and truly wants to see it prosper.
The economy that Trump inherited was far from healthy. Most employers were paying huge amounts of taxes, not to mention Obama made it extremely hard for the small business owner to stay in business and almost impossible for anyone to start a new business. Next, we have the disastrous Obamacare, which made thousands of people have to decide between having health care or putting food on their table. This is exactly what the left wants - everyone dependent on the government for everything needed to live.
Having strong relations with our allies is good, and with Trump, it will only get better. I'm more concerned with our enemy - the enemy that Obama gave pallets and pallets of money to - with which they are using to better their nuclear warheads and other terroristic ideas they come up with.
Trump is at least taking steps to protect the U.S. and other countries from his so-called friend "Kimmie" and North Korea.
Let's remember it was Obama who opened the flood gates for the illegals to enter the U.S. These people are breaking the law, the law that is here to protect our country and the people in it. Why on Earth can't we follow the laws and send them back to where they came from? It is so sad that the U.S. is being laughed at by so many because we are allowing the illegals to take over this great country.
PJ Kruger, Clear Lake
Letter: We are better than the NRA
We are gun owners. We have four: my late father-in-law’s FBI service revolver, my wife’s late husband’s 38 special, and my late father’s 22 revolver. I also have a single-shot 18 gauge shotgun I hunted with as a kid. I have a constitutional right to own these and wouldn’t want any legislation passed that would change that.
In 1762, Jean-Jacques Rousseau coined the term “social contract.” With apologies to him, let me summarize. The only completely free human is a castaway on an island where his actions have no effect on anyone else. Those who live with others compromise their personal rights to make society work. In the interest of societal safety, we have agreed to limit our 1st amendment freedoms by making it illegal to yell “fire” in a crowded auditorium.
Similarly, we have made the same choice to limit our 2nd amendment rights. We have deemed it unwise for our society to allow private ownership of surface to air missiles or functional Sherman tanks. Consequently, the issue is not limiting our 2nd amendment rights. That decision has already been made. It’s how we rationally limit them. The test: when does a personal freedom harm the greater society?
For what reason do we require personal ownership of assault rifles? Personal and family protection? Do we really think we are likely to need a weapon to protect ourselves that is capable of killing 17 & wounding another 14 kids in less than 60 seconds?
The 2nd amendment is not going away. The question is how we use it to protect our freedoms without harming society. Our children are currently trying to educate us. Let’s listen. We, as Americans, are better than the NRA!
Walter Bate and Martha Ryan, Mason City
Letter: Wright hasn't been transparent
Residents of Cerro Gordo County, Patricia Wright claims she is running a transparent campaign for County Treasurer.
With that being said, I feel it is necessary to share a few things that she is choosing to not be transparent about.
In 2013, Pat Wright's tax deputy was using county computers to do online shopping while "working." She allowed a foreigner to remote into her computer and breach the county's computer program which cost the taxpayers over $40,000. Many people know about the breach but few know that the deputy was using the computer for personal shopping. All employees have to sign the IT policy stating they won't use the computers for personal issues, but this tax deputy is still working there for some reason.
Pat also claims to be a proven leader but yet less than two months ago under her leadership she cost the taxpayers another $8,000-$10,000 when ballots were printed wrong! As a proven leader did she take responsibility? No! She blamed her deputy for that. A true leader would have stepped up and taken ownership. After all, a leader would make sure things are checked and double checked for errors.
People need to understand that under Pat's leadership there have been several issues that get swept under the rug.
The biggest complaint in that office is poor customer service and I believe that is a result of the "proven leader."
Vote Natasha Lewerke on or before Nov. 6.
Roxane Francis, Mason City
Letter: Iowa has changed for the worse
I am 80-year-old, an Iowan born-and-bred and educated. A daughter lives in Iowa City. We own property. I love the state. I have always regarded Iowans as common sensible, reasonable, intelligent, never met an illiterate person.
Now I find the Legislature has, among other things, legalized sawed-off shotguns, approved stand-your-ground laws, sharply cut public educational funds and at the same time turned a nearly $1 billion surplus into a multi-million-dollar deficit.
Do Iowans really fear their neighbors so much they legalize weapons banned in civilized states since before I was born? And give them to children? Do they now have so little regard for life they approve killing an aggressor even if given an equally available means of escape without killing? Do they really approve crippling the public educational system of a state once regarded as the envy of the entire nation? Do they punish victims of rape and incest twice, once the original crime and second forced to carry pregnancy to term even at risk of their life? Do they really approve a governor supposedly of the entire population, who gives a speech promoting the idea that one party, the Democrats, is trying to sabotage the actions of the other?
I once supposed I might like to retire to Iowa City. A delightful small college town. Active, intellectual, Big 10 sports, safe, four seasons. No more. Now I must reconsider those plans, as should anyone else. Apparently the population has changed sharply and not for the better.
John Rasmussen, Palm Desert, Calif.
Letter: King's re-elections are baffling
Because I was born and raised in northern Iowa, I have followed your politics with great interest. Rep. Steve King’s re-elections baffle me.
King sponsored H.R. 3599 which could subvert state and local measures addressing animal welfare laws, food safety, food labeling, environmental requirements and more.
He has questioned the historical contributions of non-white “subgroups” and retweeted a neo-Nazi promoting views of unabashed white supremacists.
King doesn’t support campaign finance reform. He voted no on grants for making backup paper ballots available and no on extending provisions of the Voting Rights Act.
King voted over 60 times to repeal the Affordable Care Act, has proposed using Medicaid reimbursements to pay for a border wall by defunding Planned Parenthood, co-sponsored bills to protect life beginning with fertilization and to include pre-born human beings in 14th Amendment protection.
He voted against the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act.
He voted against medical marijuana and for preventing states from authorizing its use.
King is against the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which oversees financial institutions and has returned $12 billion in restitution to roughly 29 million Americans.
King’s voting record includes:
No on regulating the subprime mortgage industry.
No on reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act.
Yes on constitutionally defining marriage as one-man-one-woman.
Yes on barring the EPA from regulating greenhouse gases.
No on protecting whistleblowers from employer recrimination.
No on expansion of Medicare.
No on giving mental healthcare equity with physical healthcare.
No on extending SCHIP to cover 6 million more kids
No on requiring negotiated drug prices for Medicare Part D.
No on restricting no-bid defense contracts.
Yes on allowing electronic surveillance without a warrant.
We all have opinions, assumptions and beliefs, but what are they based on? A vote for J.D. Scholten would be a vote for civil rights and a compassionate society.
Jackie Aase, Port Townsend, Washington
Letter: Casino would revive downtown
The mall/downtown area could be fixed by the city taking over the mall, and putting a casino where Penny's was. The stores would fill up in the mall and be able to charge less for rent to keep them there.
They could build their hotels and have potential customers and more visitors for Music Man Square, the art museum, and other surrounding businesses. The movie theater could open back up, maybe a steak house in the mall, all possible through revenue from the casino or from taxes from a casino.
More people means more business. It's a win, win, win! Take a lesson from Worth County: only the local people would spend their money here instead of driving 20 miles. And it's also closer for a number of surrounding communities to gamble here.
Wake up Mason City, or deal with the consequences.
Jay Sheahan, Mason City
Letter: Mason City can be a better host
To the people of Mason City: Shame on you!
A missed opportunity on your part! You want state money to fund your renaissance project, but when the most important state official is supposed to be in town, instead of a warm greeting, she’s being set up for ridicule and protests. I, for one, don’t blame her for canceling the event at the Farmer’s Market on Friday, June 1. Again, shame on you!
You don’t have to agree, but weren’t you taught to give respect to the office? After all, Gov. Reynolds is the first woman governor of Iowa. Throughout the 2016 election, I kept hearing we need a woman leader. Here in Iowa, we have one! OK, so she’s not a Democrat – so what!?
If you could clean the filter between your ears, you’d understand she really does have Iowa and its people first and foremost on her list!
No. 1 for me is the “heartbeat bill.” Those of you against this – seriously?! No abortion after 20 weeks – that’s five months, half way to term. If you wait that long, why not wait four more and let someone who really wants a child have him or her?
No. 2 is the “tax cut bill.” How are a few extra dollars in your paycheck a bad thing?
But once again, shame on you! You could have been waiting to show our governor that Mason City is a great place to visit. Instead, you got all mean and snarky, so she canceled. Weren’t we taught better than that?
Oh, and when the Dems have their pictures taken with Abraham Lincoln in the background, you know he was a Republican right?
Pat Weydert, Rockwell
Letter: Blood on the hands of NRA, pols
Let's face facts: President Trump does not want the assault rifles banned, as he is in bed with the NRA. He has been bought and paid for. Our Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst is another senator bought and paid for by the NRA. As is our Chuck Grassley. The NRA owns their votes. So nothing will be done about outlawing these weapons of murder. Arm the teachers? That is not the answer. Why does he want to turn our schools into a war zone?
Why does he wish to add to the problem instead of fixing the obvious solution? Why? Because he is owned as is our congress by the NRA!.
When the next terrible slaughter occurs, and it will, it is the NRA who has blood of innocent victims dripping from their hands.
Dan Mumby, Mason City
Letter: King is no friend of agriculture
Earlier this year an important issue with organic livestock, USDA National Organic Program Animal Welfare Law, was in the review and public comment process. Our farmer-owned marketing cooperative, Organic Valley, which I am a member of, asked its farmers to contact their U.S. senators and representatives in regards to this legislation. There were over 40,000 people that responded with support for this rule. Approximately two dozen people were opposed, yet the legilsation ruled in favor of those who were opposed! And this is a democracy?
Sen. Grassley responded with a two-page letter to me, and while I do not agree with his position, at least a thoughtful reply was received. The only response that I got back from Rep. Steve King’s staff was that “Congressman King is not receiving communication from his constituents.”
As a member of the ag committee, Congressman King has no respect or time for the smaller, family farmer. He supports big ag corporations. What has he accomplished as a congressional representative for this district? You cannot serve the people if you will not communicate with those you represent.
Congressman King is an embarrassment to our state. Let’s elect someone who can represent the needs of our district, and that person is JD Scholten.
Tom Frantzen, New Hampton
Letter: A lesson in TIF benefits, budgeting
To John (J.B.) Johnson ("Thankful to live in Hancock County," Jan. 3) and to those of you who do not understand tax increment financing, or TIF, allow me to present a simple explanation:
Let's say you are a farmer wanting to obtain more land. You have an uncle who is worth millions. The uncle comes to you and says, "Nephew, if you purchase this 160-acre piece of land over time, I will be willing to make the payments for you, and in the end, you will own the land without having to place your own personal money into the project." Who wouldn't take up an offer such as this, especially when you know the uncle has always been honorable?
With TIF, a large project (such as windmills) comes to a county. Windmills pay a huge amount of property taxes, taxes that go to all taxing bodies within that district. A county has to have debt, certain kinds of debt, in order to utilize TIF. So the counties incur debt by improving roads and bridges and then by utilizing TIF, divert the property tax monies from the other taxing bodies to the county to pay for the debt. The state back-fills the school district 87.5 percent of the lost revenue, so there is virtually no lost revenue to the schools. Due to the back-fill, the county receives more than 140 percent of the money that would be generated from the windmill property taxes if those taxes were not TIFed. The county is the big beneficiary.
Yes, Mr. Johnson, Winnebago and Mitchell counties have debt. But this debt is not being paid for by the rest of the property taxpayers of the county. Instead, those taxpayers are benefiting by improvements made with TIF, thus holding down property taxes that otherwise would need to be raised to pay for the necessary repairs to our crumbling roads and bridges.
As a Mitchell County Supervisor, I am proud to understand how to stretch the property tax dollars to benefit all taxpayers of the county, a win-win for everyone.
Stan Walk, St. Ansgar
It takes the debt of the lowest 55 counties to equal the combined debt of Winnebago and Mitc…
Letter: Lawmakers act like Iowa is Iran
I took the opportunity to attend a local legislative forum. The Legislators in attendance were, Mr. Guth, Baxter and Gassman. I thank them for the opportunity for us to express our views. It was a lively discussion.
The audience had many concerned questions on a variety of important topics. During the gun control discussion, we learned from our legislators that guns do not kill people, people kill people. There apparently is no need for further gun control measures, because that means we are coming to take their guns away. We were told this is a societal issue.
Too many divorces and single-parent households. The cure for all of this is the need for religion in schools, they stated. When someone asked about increasing funding for our schools, a legislator stated we can't increase funds to schools because there are 600,000 people on Medicaid.
I then asked, does that mean people should not have health care? The legislator asked me which church I belong to. I asked why does that matter. He said, because that is where you should get you health insurance from.
So, if it takes you two or three jobs to cover your bills, too bad. Our state government is not interested in you having a living wage. I bet you also did not realize the negative impact you have had on our society, due to your divorce.
More guns will fix our problems.
Religion in our schools will fix all of our ills.
And if you do not belong to the "right" church, too bad when it comes to health coverage. Wow!
These are the people writing our laws. It is time we decide if we want to continue as a democracy, or be a theocracy such as Iran. We need to take action now.
Lissa Holloway, Britt
Letter: Online, out-of-town hurts local business
Mason City no longer biggest shopping hub. With our mall empty and Shopko filing for bankruptcy, the pharmacy so far, store closing may be coming. Our choices for shopping are limited.
It's hard being in business. Too many people shop online. For the convenience and sent right to your door. Our society have gotten so lax and lazy, drive-up food lanes, online grocery delivery and the list goes on.
We the people are doing it to ourselves, putting stores out of business, plus jobs lost. Now people drive to Des Moines or Minneapolis for the day or weekend to shop and spend their money and have fun doing it. Instead of adding jobs, we're losing jobs. People drive 30-50 miles to go to work but live here.
So I may be old-fashioned, but we are hurting ourselves. I believe in shopping local and supporting hometown business.
Kay Bessman, Mason City
Letter: Ernst, others fear NRA reprisal
Regarding the latest school mass killing, I’ve come to believe politicians actually say, “My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims’ families, but not my vote.”
Why? Fear of NRA reprisals, even though most of its members want background checks. They want responsibility, accountability. Unfortunately, the NRA is merely a lobby for the gun industry.
Did you know that of the top ten recipients of NRA money, No. 7 was Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst receiving $3,124,273 — the only woman on that list. How will she please her big donor without deflecting to the mental illness strategy, that complex issue where gun legislation gets lost or marginalized?
In 1994 we had an Assault Weapons Ban, but it expired in 2004. We must pressure (through our votes) politicians to ban them permanently. They’re only for military and law enforcement. I was shocked when my seventh grade grandson’s baseball coach displayed an AR 15, this killing machine, as his lottery fundraiser prize. I did not contribute.
The gun deaths in our country point to a corruption of the Second Amendment. It is our duty to stop this corruption by voting only for lawmakers who will fight for thorough background checks and a permanent assault weapons ban.
Johanna Anderson, Osage
Letter: Change the name to Americans
I am a "Mohawk" writing in support of your kind community member Le Anne Clausen de Montes and her efforts to teach her four children respect for others by suggesting a Mason City High School mascot name change based on the consent of the St. Regis Indian Reservation residents.
There are enrolled tribal members from Akwesasne living in all 50 states, including Iowa. This is a far cry from 100 years ago when the population of Native Americans was at the lowest point due to centuries of disease, forced relocation and a broken way of life since 1492.
There is no connection between legitimate Native history and the whimsical short-lived nostalgia that Mason City Mohawks supporters are clinging to in response to the admirable efforts of your progressive city resident Le Anne.
A troubling pattern is emerging in the review of the stated justifications of the supporters of similar tribal-themed mascotivism across America, also seen with some professional sports franchise fanatics. The assertions of tradition and honor are referenced from afar without any basis in reality or relevance to the actual descendants of those few survivors a century ago from an original estimated population size ranging from 1,000,000 to 50,000,000 depending on whose data you embrace.
Instead of focusing on historical warlike traits to be modeled on the Mason City athletic playing surfaces, why not change the name to the Americans? This is what the colonists referred to their Native neighbors in that era, as opposed to their European origins.
Hard-earned Iowa tax dollars are being committed to a public school district in your community that is engaging in idolatry by committing to produce quality citizens while maintaining a double standard of preference and entitlement. And by the way, Mohawk is an Algonquin word for “flesh eaters.”
Charles Kader, Cleveland, Ohio
Letter: Keep the proud name, tradition
Unless we're willing to ask approval from the families of Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, Mckinley, John Adams, Roosevelt, Harding and others, to use their names for our schools, I think we can keep our long and proud tradition using the Mohawk mascot and name for out sports teams without consulting the Mohawk Nation.
Mason City teams have been the Mohawks with little or no objection until now, when a local minister has decided to seek publicity and attention. She says it's been on her mind for a long time. My suggestion would be for her to consider her flock and spend more time thinking about how she could serve them and do something useful, something to help those in need.
I really don't think the Mohawk Nation minds having a small school in Iowa that chooses to honor their tribe by claiming their traditional courage and honor as an object of respect and aspiration.
Thomas Frank, Mason City
Letter: More gracious behavior, please
It was very refreshing to read of Dean Snyder Construction's graciousness in the handling of the unexpected Gatehouse-G8 outcome. When I saw last week's headline: "Clear Lake construction company claims Mason City, developer ignored legal letters about hotel drawings" I cringed, thinking that the city would have another lawsuit on its hands. Instead, Snyder's spokesperson indicated, "Many exciting things are to come involving the River City Renaissance Project, and we are confident that with the new council and mayor, they will be handled with great care."
This letter is not an indictment on the decision that was made - in fact, given all of the facts that I became aware of, I really believe the City Council made the best decision for the city of Mason City. But, importantly, it's an acknowledgment of civic-minded behavior and graciousness. Honestly, we didn't see much of this in 2017, from the Prestage project to elements of this hotel development. Here's to giving our best to supporting our City and each other in 2018.
Steve Weiss, Mason City
MASON CITY | Dean Snyder Construction Co. of Clear Lake was treated unfairly during the proc…
Letter: King's support, base is in Iowa
Congressman Steve King is a steadfast supporter of life, the Constitution and agriculture. He continues to work hard in the best interest of Iowans. Because of leaders like King, the average Iowan will see a $2,000 increase in take-home pay in 2018, America is seeing its lowest unemployment levels since 1969, black and Hispanic unemployment are at all-time lows, and consumer confidence is approaching a record high. He has my vote and hopefully yours, too.
Nearly 75 percent of King’s individual donors come from within Iowa. King’s top donor city is Sioux City. More than 70 percent of his opponent’s individual donors come from outside of Iowa. His top donor cities are San Francisco and New York.
Why are Californians and New Yorkers trying to influence your vote?
King has been named “Friend of Agriculture” by the Iowa Farm Bureau. He’s been endorsed by the NRA and has the full support of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association. He introduced the “Heartbeat Bill” in Congress. Before office, King started and ran a construction company and has lived his entire life in Iowa.
His opponent is endorsed by: Bernie Sanders, a socialist; Cory Booker, an anti-meat, animal rights extremist; Elizabeth Warren, a radical leftist; and, most notably, the Des Moines Register. He has never held a real job, started a business, made a payroll or even run for dog catcher but somehow believes he’s qualified to be your Congressman.
Are 4th District Iowans more aligned with the Farm Bureau, NRA, renewable fuels and the sanctity of life, or are they more aligned with socialists, animal rights extremists, San Francisco and the habitually unemployed?
Iowa is ranked No. 1 in the country. Democrats like King’s opponent want to change that.
Please support a better Iowa and a better America by re-electing Congressman Steve King.
Craig Williams, Manning
Letter: Obama's words are socialist, communist
Former President Obama and his wife, Michelle, signed a contract with Netflix to create a documentary series that he hopes will unite people from all walks of life.
Now isn't that a hoot! He had eight years to unite this country and bring races, religions, and income classes together, but all we ended up with was a very divided nation.
President Obama was always quick to blame the police for incidents that took place. He drastically increased the hostility levels between citizens and police officers.
He was very adept at creating a hostility between the earning classes in this country. He once said that just because you're rich doesn't mean you created the wealth based on your talents. He said the wealthy person did not make it on his own, and that everyone else should get credit for the success of the individual. His words smacked of socialism or communism.
Mr. Obama can make his so-called documentaries, but he shouldn't expect many to buy into his theories and anti-capitalistic rhetoric.
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: Iowa deserves better waterways
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned the water was unsafe due to bacterial contamination. How disappointing for the weekend but how tragic for life!
I'm happy to pay taxes to protect public land, but now we can't even enjoy them. In Iowa where there are seven times more pigs than people, our waterways are under perpetual toxic harm. We know that corporate agriculture is the biggest contributor to water pollution in Iowa.
It doesn't have to be this way. Can you imagine the amazing recreational/tourist possibility of our rivers and public parks if our waters were pollutant-free?
Bottom line: this isn't just our swimming water, irrigating water, life-sustaining water. To get the clean water that Iowa's families deserve, we need polluters to pay to clean up the mess they made.
Kristyn Arnold, Des Moines
Letter: Touched by aunt's forgiveness at double murder sentencing
My heart aches and the tears are flowing. I just finished reading the impact statements made by relatives of Ken and Kathleen Hackbart at Codie Matz's sentencing for double homicide.
What a contrast there is in those opposite statements! I'm very sad at the anger that filled Marv Hackbart's remarks, read by Pat Hackbart, calling Codie a pathetic loser, as well as other rage-filled names.
And then I read statements from another sibling of Ken Hackbart, Sharon Badenschier, whose remarks spoke of forgiveness, wishes for healing, purpose in life, and helping others find peace.
Wow, Sharon, you are a shining example of understanding and choosing forgiveness. You have touched my heart and the tears came as I read your statement. I pray the rest of the family will find that healing power of forgiveness that you have found.
I had a powerful, life-changing event in my life that required forgiveness nearly six years ago.
Our 24-year-old son died hours after seeing a doctor for nausea and a horrendous headache that he was experiencing for a day and a half.
I felt the doctor "killed" my son for not sending Ben to the hospital, for not ordering a blood test and in general for not getting how very sick he was.
She sent him home to rest for the afternoon and he died a few hours later.
For months, my anger at that woman doctor in North Liberty, Iowa, was consuming me and the bitter root of unforgiveness was growing inside my heart and soul.
It took time, God's grace and work on my part to heal my grief and bitterness, and I was able to forgive.
Forgiveness is transforming; it changes you.
Thank you, Sharon, for the courage you had to share your forgiving statements to the court and to your nephew, Codie.
I'm very sorry for your loss and for all the family's loss. May all the family find peace and healing and even forgiveness following this tragedy.
Roxann Newell, Mason City
Letter: There must be better candidates
I can't believe the council and search committee presented questionable men for the city administrator position, especially when at the last minute one is recommend by a friend on the committee.
Have you read their qualifications? Any one from mayor on down who presented these men for this position should resign or step down. This is a clear example of subterfuge on the residents of Mason City.
I don't feel any one of them is qualified. Surely there are better qualified candidates than these!
Willis White, Mason City
Personnel Director Perry Buffington credited Jackson and Hinson for finding 60 possible candidates, which produced what he felt was an impressive field. He added that constant turnover is common in the city administrator profession.
In his current job as city manager in Independence, a job he has held since 2014, one of Roder's main accomplishments has been the installation of a new pool/aquatic center, built under budget by $800,000 for a total of $2.9 million.
In his most recent job as city manager in Dixon, Illinois — a job he held from 2016-17 — O'Donnell developed a five-year capital improvement program, which helped city council members and staff to identify projected shortfalls in revenue streams, and avoid any future shortfalls.
Helfenberger, who served as city administrator in St. Cloud, Florida, from 2015-17, was responsible for helping lead a downtown development, ranging from hotel restoration to a new 10-15 story mixed-use building. The developer who assisted in the project spent more than $10 million on St. Cloud's downtown area.
Pederson, who last worked as city manager in Paducah, Kentucky from 2010-17, helped bring a $20 million, 124-room hotel to the city's downtown waterfront. It opened in July 2017.
Lansing, who started as Garner's city administrator in 2011, said earning the same position in Mason City would be a "career enhancement."
All five candidates will be available to answer questions from the community in a public reception on Feb. 16 from 5-7 p.m. in the Salisbury Room at the MacNider Art Museum, 303 Second St. S.E. They also will be interviewed by city officials from Feb. 16-17.
Letter: Officials must act on downtown
This letter is directed to all city elected office holders: Hey, guess what?!
Our mall will go under in May. Younkers is closing. That means all the other small stores will also close. People will lose their jobs!
Do you think without those stores, we can still have our sports complex? I really doubt that. If the mall stores were still there, maybe people would come and buy things before and after an event.
Mr. Chouder has never come through on any of his projects! What makes you think he will now?!
As elected office holders of this city, you need to wake up and do something ASAP to keep our downtown alive and thriving.
We don't have time to play what-ifs.
I'm proud Mason City is where I live, but we need to do more for our central core downtown.
Kathy Sage, Mason City
Letter: Feel sorry for the disgraceful Trump
I watched a good majority of Trump's campaign speeches and got more horrified the more I watched and listened. He is the one who started the rioting and hating.
He encouraged it (by telling the police not to be too nice to criminals and praising a guard for body-slamming), and he even encouraged the crowds by his rhetoric and making statements that he love "chaos." That's very obvious!
After all the shameful displays he put out there, he has the audacity to say the media re the problem and that they should tone it down. They are just reporting what they see. He has brought out the worse in everyone (me included), not just his groupies.
In his eyes, the Dems are the cause of the migrants coming in. It would not be a surprise to be if his own party is behind it to rev-up the elections coming up. And who would be surprised if his supporters are sending the bombs to so many big politicians?
He is a conning, egotistical, know-it-all who thinks he is a gift to the world, but in reality, he is a want-a-be dictator. If things continue as they are, our country is going to be a banquet for every dictator in the world and have him as their guide. Where did the people that elected this guy come from?
I can't believe some of the legislators think it is OK for him to "express" himself in the manner he is comfortable with. He's a disgrace! But maybe we should feel sorry for him, as all the name he calls others is what he feels about himself.
Everything I see and hear about him I believe – he couldn't tell the truth if it hit him in the face! His truth is making up stories and only he believes it.
Beverly McCormick, Garner
Letter: Dems set stage for historic defeat
Editor's note: This letter to the editor has been removed from the Globe Gazette's website and will not appear in print. Several sentences were identical to a column by Wayne Allyn Root, published June 28 in the Las Vegas Review Journal. The letter-to-the-editor was sent to the Globe Gazette electronically on July 1.
Letter: For results, vote straight GOP
It’s time to cut all the crap about the midterm election. Let’s get down to reality, not conjecture.
Since President Trump took office, his unusual tactics have been scrutinized but they have all produced the desired results. Jobs, economy, tax breaks, more fair healthcare, North Korea talking denuclearization, UN countries paying more of their agreed-to fees, tariffs are getting results. I can go on and on.
Let me ask: when have you ever heard a school system or teacher say they were happy with their funding? Not even when Democrats were in charge. Mr. Hubbell specifically says he won’t raise taxes on “middle” income, but he won’t say he isn’t raising taxes on businesses. If he were to win, the company you work for loses money (probably freezes wages, cuts jobs, trickle down to you getting less).
I respectfully request you all keep the growth blessing Iowa and our nation by getting out and voting Republican right down the line. You can even do it at the county auditors office before Tuesday, Nov. 6.
James Killius, Mason City
Letter: Signs point to the end times
What is this world coming to? It's so sinful, dark, upset. How do you straighten is out?
Seems the only answer is to ask God for forgiveness and get back to His word, do what He says.
Disciples asked Jesus what will be the signs of thy coming? He said, "Take heed, do not be deceived." Also as it was in Noah's day, eating, drinking, marrying, sexual immorality, etc. That's our world today.
Many disasters, worldwide famines, starvation, storms, floods, fires, killings, greed, unrest, rich-richer, poor-poorer.
But hey, I keep looking up. Jesus could come for His bride any moment. All these things happening is for all, especially for Israel, to turn to God.
Jesus also said, "When the fig leaves (Israel) are tender, His coming is at the door."
Israel's so hated by the world, but they are still going back to their homeland, just as Jesus said in the end times.
Have you asked Jesus to forgive you and invited him into your heart and live for Him? If not, do so today, no promise for tomorrow. Have that peace in your heart. This world can't give.
Delphia Foell, Sheffield
Letter: Judge the law and the accused
A jury convicts a man of murder because he shot through his apartment door and accidentally killed someone he thought was breaking it but turned out to be an innocent person. Based upon what I've read, it does sound like an accident, but it doesn't sound like murder. If the citizen had been a police officer, he'd have gotten a paid vacation instead of trial and prison!
Nowadays, during jury selection, they overly screen out and dismiss any who indicate a knowledge of their Constitutional rights, so they end up with intimidated puppets (bound by a bunch of technicalities and legal mumbo-jumbo) willing to feed the defendant to the lions to satisfy the prosecution system.
Jurors have a right to judge law as well as facts, but no judge or prosecutors want jurors to know that.
The state of New Hampshire (the Freedom State - no seat belt law for adults, and they have a lower fatality rate per mile of travel than seat-belt Iowa has) enacted a law to require their courts to remind jurors of their Constitutional right to put the law on trial as well as the defendant. This is something our power-hungry officials here in Iowa don't want to happen.
Herman Lenz, Sumner
Letter: No, God didn't pick Trump for us
In the June 10 Globe Gazette, there was a letter to the editor titled "Settle down, God picked Trump" by Melba Muhlenbruch from Hampton. I would like to refute her statements.
The only news about Hillary Clinton that is referred to lately is what Donald J. Trump digs up and tweets about. Hillary did not win the election because Donald J. Trump and his Russian pal Vladimir Putin and their cronies infiltrated our democracy so Trump could win. Hillary did, however, win the popular vote by over 3 million votes. Doesn't it make you shudder to think that this president can undo all of the freedoms that so many gave their lives for over the decades?
Mr. Trump is not a native American. He must have had ancestors who came to this country from somewhere in Europe or possibly Russia to live in this great nation years ago. Why is he so against immigration?
God does not vote in our elections. If he could, he would not pick someone with half a brain and an ego as big as a blimp! Nor would God put someone such as Trump in as president who shows all of the world how to bully or dictate or be "king." Why should Trump continue to make the United States look bad all over the world?
My Bible tells me that in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve disobeyed God, those that followed would be given the right to choose. When we choose the wrong things, we end up paying a big price. How much longer do we have to pay the price of having Trump for our president?
Dorothy Abbas, Hampton
Letter: Immigrants pay taxes, too
“There are two things you can not avoid in life - death and taxes.” These were words from one of my father’s sermons when I was growing up. I think about them at this time of year as I am getting ready to file my own taxes and to prepare taxes for Spanish-speakers. It makes me think about the necessary services which are paid by our taxes.
With recent tax cuts, which are permanent for corporations and the rich, and temporary for the rest of us, some of us will pay more in other ways. The lowest income Americans will receive a tax cut of about $60 a year. However, they will pay in reductions in Medicaid, food assistance, and other programs that are their safety net and that they need to survive.
Neither party talks about the poor, but prefer to talk about the middle class. As we have increased national disasters and demands from the President and his party to build a border wall, our representatives voted to cut taxes, mainly on the rich. The poor will pay for “tax reform” the most.
There’s a misconception that undocumented immigrants don’t pay taxes. As a tax preparer I can attest that this is not true.
Taxes are withheld from everyone’s paychecks, regardless of immigration status. The difference is that illegal immigrants will never receive benefits for Social Security taxes of the approximately $13 billion paid each year into Social Security by the undocumented.
Many immigrants file taxes to obtain the amount of taxes they overpaid and receive a refund. However, there are others who do not file taxes or receive refunds due to fear that information will be shared with ICE.
We ought to remember that we are a nation of immigrants, even (or especially) at tax time.
Kris Gannett-Sanchez, Mason City
Letter: Leave taxpayers out of the mall
It is high time Mason City gets out of the mall business.
No more city (taxpayer) money for this continued boondoggle.
Get rid of it, sell it completely to private investors, and let them do with it as they wish.
Do the leaders of this community ever learn?
Michael Syverson, Mason City
Letter: We don't need another $100k job
In response to the headline ("Council scraps finalists," March 9), about the city of Mason City not selecting any of the candidates for city administrator, I am wondering why we should continue the search and just stop it right now.
I have heard over and over from our mayor that Jacobson is doing a fine job, and we have a fine staff supporting him. Why do we need to add another $100,000-plus job to our payroll when it is working fine right now?
I agree with the mayor to a point: if it is working with the system in place right now (he said we are comfortable,) why don't we just name Jacobson administrator with his fine staff.
Our population is not getting any larger, and if things are working, why do we need to add more payroll?
John Lindsay, Mason City
Letter: Rhetoric explains increase in violence
At the time of his retirement in 1996, Gen. Barry McCaffrey was the most highly decorated four-star general in the Army. In 2017 he said, "Trump lacks the emotional and intellectual complexity to steer a super power, and if left unchecked, he will eventually degrade our once great country until it’s as twisted, hateful, and small as he is. It really makes me sick, to be honest.”
The Anti-Defamation League reports hate crimes went up 34 percent in 2016, 57 percent in 2017, and are on pace with 2017's numbers in 2018. After the killings in Pittsburgh on top of the pipe bombs sent and all the other violence the U. S. has experienced since Trump became president, it is clear we need to vote a check on this president.
A check Congress is constitutionally tasked to be, but that the current cowardly Republican Congress refuses to be. As another general and former Fox News contributor (he quit) Gen. Michael Hayden said, “If this is who we are or who we are becoming, I have wasted 40 years of my life. Until now, it was not possible for me to conceive of an American president capable of such an outrageous assault on truth, a free press, or the First Amendment."
What has changed in the past two years? The rhetoric of our leader. No other president in my 70-year lifetime has acted or spoken in the hateful manner Trump does. Telling his supporters to beat people up. Leading them in chants to "lock her up." Calling the press the "enemy of the people." The pipe-bomber saw him as a “father figure.”
Americans must vote Blue this election to ensure some restraints on the worst instincts and impulses of this president and his followers.
Lonna Gooden Van Horn, Northwood
Letter: Your congressman is a bully
Let's congratulate some of the Iowa cities in Rep. Steve King's District 4:
Sioux City, Forest City, Klemme, Hampton, Sibley, Pomeroy, Hornick, Lawton, Orange City, Hawarden, Rock Rapids, Mason City and Council Bluffs.
Your Congressman attacked Emma Gonzalez's heritage because he is a bully who cannot empathize with the horror she and her fellow students endured of gun violence and murder.
Rep. King attacks her family heritage while for years, he has boasted of his own maternal heritage relationship to Abraham Lincoln.
Lee Hazer, Council Bluffs
Letter: Hatred may come back to haunt
I was always told growing up that if you hated someone, it would hurt you more than it hurt them. The hatred that is rampant in America toward our president today is going to hurt our country immeasurably if tempers don't cool down.
Congress is toying with our destruction if it doesn't see to it that our military has the backing it needs to protect us from North Korea, Iran and others who would be most happy if we met our demise.
There are so many things on Congress's plate that need to be attended to and if they would only cooperate with each other and seek God's guidance they could come up with solutions that would be fair. The idea of having only one's own way like a spoiled child is repulsive and gets very "old."
As groups roam the streets in protest, I often think it would be a good lesson in appreciation for the freedom we have if those protesters spent a week in North Korea under the Kim regime without food, etc. Maybe there could be a rude awakening and a change of heart. Some in the leadership of the Democrats urge them to resist and block anything Trump or the Republicans want you to do even if it destroys us and they seem to be following that advice.
I say, "Wake up Americans before your own hatred comes back to haunt you." Thank God you are free, at least for the moment.
Melba Muhlenbruch, Hampton
Letter: Factory farms are ruining Iowa
We in Iowa are facing ever-increasing threats of water and air pollution from factory farms. The industry knows it, our governor knows it, our legislators know it, the Department of Natural Resources knows it - but nobody seems to have a spine anymore. I love Iowa, and it is very hard to watch the hog industry destroy our beautiful state.
We are in the midst of an environmental disaster, and all Iowans - both urban and rural - should be concerned. Factory farms are using our good water and returning it to us in the form of toxic waste. One would think we'd have some protections for our resources, but sadly, money has been too much of a motivator for our local and state leaders to resist.
The DNR reports that 750 waterbodies are impaired in Iowa. Yes, they continue giving their stamp of approval for more and more factory farms. It appears that the DNR is not concerned with protecting our water.
We must rise up, or factory farms will continue plaguing our landscape. The time for politicians to ignore our voices is over. We must be heard by our votes, our written words, and our calls. We need a moratorium now!
Jim Batton, Rowan
Letter: Tired of fixing jerks' actions
Just what exactly is it with white Americans these days, such as #PoolPatrolPaula, #PermitPatty and #BBQBecky who have nothing better to do with their time than to flaunt their supposed white privilege and call the police on black Americans who are doing nothing more than living normal lives, doing normal things, and even just having a good time together?
Enough already. Please, stop it. Just stop. We're tired of constantly nursing black eyes because of jerks like you.
Kevin Young, Sheffield
Letter: Dems set stage for historic defeat
Editor's note: This letter to the editor has been removed from the Globe Gazette's website and will not appear in print. Several sentences were identical to a column by Wayne Allyn Root, published June 28 in the Las Vegas Review Journal. The letter-to-the-editor was sent to the Globe Gazette electronically on July 1.
Letter: Do something about slavery, trafficking
It would surprise most Americans to know that slavery still exists...it surprised me. In fact, right now, more than 40 million people are someone else’s property — enslaved in factories, fishing boats, and brothels. Today, (June 29, 2018) the U.S. State Department released the 2018 Trafficking in Persons Report, which shines a spotlight on human trafficking, and ranks 188 countries on their efforts to bring an end this crime within their borders.
It is essential that this annual report tell the truth about slavery so we can effectively work towards a world where everyone is free. The Trump Administration and Congress should utilize U.S. diplomacy and foreign aid to combat slavery, specifically by protecting the integrity of the report, reauthorizing the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, appointing a new Ambassador to head the Trafficking in Persons office, and fully funding U.S. efforts to bring an end to this stoppable crime.
While this problem is a global problem, it is also a local problem. Our state is at the hub the interstate sex trafficking network. As responsible citizens, we must do all in our power to see that this problem is erased in our communities, in state and in our world. I urge you, the reader, to read the TIP Report to become more aware of this horrendous problem – then do something about it!
Jim Stern, Osage
Letter: Someone, stand up to Rep. Waters
I would love to see just one Democrat with a moral backbone stand up to Maxine Waters and tell to her stop promoting violence towards people. What an embarrassment she is. Her behavior and comments are despicable.
Phyllis Rodgers, Mason City
Letter: 50-50 in 2020 wants focus on issues
As we head into the fall election, rumblings about “negative” campaigning have already begun. What do we mean by “negative’ tactics? The bipartisan board of directors for 50-50 in 2020 would like to share our perceptions on the subject with candidates from all parties, at every level.
What’s positive? Explaining how your policy on a particular issue differs from that of your opponent. This is a legitimate, in fact, necessary element of any campaign. Tell us what you stand for and how it is different from your opponent’s policy.
Painting a vision of the future. Tell us what you plan to do and why that will make our state better.
Working hard to connect with as many voters as you can. Explain your record. Tout your experience and your abilities without criticizing your opponent personally.
What’s negative? Launching personal attacks on your opponent. That practice should have been left behind in junior high (or as it’s now called, middle school).
Defining your opponent with derogatory labels and slogans. They are not informative and they insult the voters’ intelligence and sensibilities.
Demonizing your opponent. This practice only demeans the one doing it.
Taking words and phrases out of context and twisting their meanings. This practice should be beneath the dignity of honest candidates and parties. Manipulating your opponent’s visual image is a similar form of deceit.
We can have a hard-hitting, full-bore campaign on the issues without sinking into the muck of negative campaigning. Iowa voters are more than ready for a civil, respectful contest. We sincerely hope the candidates and their parties will deliver.
Christine Louscher, Algona; Cheryl Jahnel Erb, Charles City; and 10 other 50-50 in 2020 board members
Letter: Summer production was a hit
Once again, Mason City was astounded by the production of "Brigadoon" by Mason City High School. That should not be surprising as the high school has done an excellent production each year. The cast and crew along with their director are truly to be commended. What a talent we have in our high school students.
One would think that this production would come from a professional troupe. Everyone was in character at all times even during the musical numbers during the show. Truly an excellent performance. If you were fortunate enough to witness this event, you know what I am saying.
If for some reason you missed this, you truly missed one of North Iowa's best enjoyments. No one but the actors and directors know of the hours spend during rehearsal and time at home working to make this truly a night to remember. I am already looking forward to next year's production.
Pat Blanchard, Mason City
Letter: Time is running out on Trump
There is no longer any justification for being a Trump supporter. I could see during the campaign and election and Hillary's unpopularity that some could have been hornswoggled by Trump's unconscionable lies, poor judgement, and lack of knowledge about most everything. But after a year and a half of "much worse than we could have ever imagined," it's time for a reality check.
Trump inherited a healthy and recovering economy, no wars, unemployment rate at 4.7 percent and dropping, and we had strong and healthy relations with our allies, while we were sanctioning foes like Russia and North Korea. The stock market had tripled over the last eight years. There was economic momentum, and Trump quickly started taking credit for it even before the inauguration.
There is not one positive action taken or positive result under Trump, and with all the executive orders and legislation that has occurred, there is only one direction for the country to go. Do you think if Trump could push a button and make himself "supreme ruler", he wouldn't do it?
Republicans are too gutless to take charge of their party and pay the price to do what is right for democracy and America's future. Now Trump wants to have his new friend "Kimmie" at the White House, along with Putin, for a dictator party. Kim is a psychotic killer of his own people, even his uncle and half-brother. Trump excuses it by saying ,"Well other countries have done bad stuff." Trump brags that he "did a hell of a job over there and that the nuclear threat is gone."
Really? I predict Mueller with have his ducks in a row, and Trump will be one of them. He is a consummate law-and-order professional, and Trump can only act guilty in the meantime.
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Health care 'products' will harm us
After the 2016 Medicaid debacle, the 2018 Iowa Legislature went after private insurance. They passed a bill that will allow the sale of a "product" to avoid the requirements of the Affordable Care Act.
What does this mean for Iowans? It means the belief you are covered in the event of illness or injury may be illusory. Think you are covered for a stroke? With this product, the company may deny coverage because of previous high blood pressure. Believe that $500,000 hospital bill is covered? Sorry, your coverage limit is $100,000 per claim. Think your children are covered until they are 26? They may only be covered until they are 18. These policies were rampant before the Affordable Care Act, leaving many families no options other than bankruptcy after serious illness or injury.
While these plans may appeal to a healthy 32-year-old, what happens when that 32-year-old is struck by illness or injury? Suddenly this Iowan may be facing hundreds of thousands of dollars of medical bills only to find there is little to no coverage for them.
There is no doubt that the cost of health care is outrageous. But selling illusory products is not the answer. Other states have tackled and are continuing to tackle this problem in ways that provide real coverage to their residents at a reduced cost. We need a process in the Iowa Legislature that examines all possible options for Iowans rather than ramming through a bill that provides only the illusion of coverage. We’ve been down that road before, and it led to bankruptcy for many Iowa families. If elected as your representative, I will work for real solutions to our health care problems.
Tim Knutson, Northwood
Letter: Move tobacco policy to help Iowa
It’s hard to remember what it was like before Iowa’s Smokefree Air Act went into effect. Restaurants and bars had two sections: one smoking and the other for secondhand smoking. Dining tables had ashtrays on them. Smoking was allowed at malls and bowling alleys.
In the 10 years since the law’s implementation on July 1, 2008, all that has changed for the better.
But despite this progress, Iowa could do more to reduce smoking rates, protect our kids and improve the health of our communities. We can raise the tax on tobacco products to discourage kids from taking up smoking and encourage those who are trying to quit. I support a tax increase of $1.50 per pack of cigarettes and a similar amount for other tobacco products. Such an increase is projected to save Iowa more than $750 million in long-term health care costs from adult and youth smoking declines. It is projected to reduce youth smoking by more than 16 percent and help more than 20,000 adults finally quit.
Join me in celebrating what we have accomplished in the 10 years since the Iowa Smokefree Air Act passed and encourage our lawmakers to reduce tobacco use further by raising the tobacco tax. It’s time to take our tobacco policy into the future.
Carolyn Sunde, Forest City
Letter: Public needs clarity on port authority
Before proceeding with the Gas Pipeline proposed by the Mitchell County Board of Supervisors there are questions to be answered. MCBOS along with supervisors from Cerro Gordo, Worth, and Winnebago counties created a new level of government that is unaccountable. Members include Merlin Bartz, Worth County supervisor, Stan Walk, Mitchell County supervisor, and Jennifer Andrade, director of Mitchell County Economic Development. Andrade never faces voters in an election. Who belongs from your county?
The Port Authority approved a lease option between Midstream Methanol and the Port Authority on June 22, 2017. The land was owned by Merlin and Lisa Bartz. Bartz abstained from the vote. Lease options were signed between the Port Authority and Merlin and Lisa Bartz. Again, Bartz abstained.
Fast forward to the MCBOS meeting June 19. Mitchell County Attorney Mark Walk requested a closed session to discuss the gas pipeline. Walk announced he would not proceed with the closed session. He explained that it had to do with citizens concerned about Merlin Bartz acquiring certain property that was being leased to the Port Authority. The attorney stated he interviewed former Supervisor Shannon Paulus and decided there would be no reason for further discussion. That simple?
Finally, Stan Walk wrote an email that has been widely circulated and carries threats of physical violence. In the email he states, “Mess with my projects one more time behind my back and the gloves come off, never to go back on again, understood?” Doesn’t the title of county supervisor mean you work for the entire county and the citizens as a whole? What are “your” projects Supervisor Walk?
For many years the Walk/Voaklander agenda has been operating mostly unchecked. Remember, one man cannot run the whole show. It always takes two votes to pass “Walk’s projects.”
Al Winters, Osage
Letter: No, God didn't pick Trump for us
In the June 10 Globe Gazette, there was a letter to the editor titled "Settle down, God picked Trump" by Melba Muhlenbruch from Hampton. I would like to refute her statements.
The only news about Hillary Clinton that is referred to lately is what Donald J. Trump digs up and tweets about. Hillary did not win the election because Donald J. Trump and his Russian pal Vladimir Putin and their cronies infiltrated our democracy so Trump could win. Hillary did, however, win the popular vote by over 3 million votes. Doesn't it make you shudder to think that this president can undo all of the freedoms that so many gave their lives for over the decades?
Mr. Trump is not a native American. He must have had ancestors who came to this country from somewhere in Europe or possibly Russia to live in this great nation years ago. Why is he so against immigration?
God does not vote in our elections. If he could, he would not pick someone with half a brain and an ego as big as a blimp! Nor would God put someone such as Trump in as president who shows all of the world how to bully or dictate or be "king." Why should Trump continue to make the United States look bad all over the world?
My Bible tells me that in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve disobeyed God, those that followed would be given the right to choose. When we choose the wrong things, we end up paying a big price. How much longer do we have to pay the price of having Trump for our president?
Dorothy Abbas, Hampton
Letter: Trump shouldn't trust North Korea
I was with the First Marine Division as a combat infantry man on the line fighting in North and South Korea for most of 1951. I fought against Kim Jong Ung's father and watched Kim Jong Un rise to power. His father started the invasion in 1950 without warning and was determined to take control over South Korea. Both are ruthless killers and have been trying to take control ever since.
This sudden change of hear on Kim's part is just another attempt to conquer South Korea. He has tried several times to eliminate the governing members of South Korea. He has and continues to infiltrate by digging tunnels. He tried bluffing with atomic weaponry. I think he will continue to keep his atomic weaponry. They have a lot of mountains in which to hide them. The next trick will be probably be opening free passage of their borders. History has shown the ruling bodies of South Korea have been shaky at times.
In 1951, U.S. prisoners were badly treated by North Korean soldiers. Just ask any surviving former U.S. prisoners. I have witnessed atrocities to South Korean civilians, too. Kim Jong Un has eliminated those who oppose him and will continue to subjugate South Korea.
I have been in combat with North Korea soldiers a number of times. When they hit our line and discover we were Marines, they usually bounced back and tried those on our flanks. Concerning their meeting, I am reminded of the poem about "the young lady from Niger who sat on the back of a tiger..."
Beware of the tiger, President Trump.
Robert Echelbarger, Mason City
Letter: Jesus preferred outcasts over the popular
"Gays not allowed" signs are popping up again in store fronts. And the U.S. courts have ruled it is OK to do so.
You – who cast people away, deny entrance, dismiss as though you are too righteous and sinless to even acknowledge their existence – don't know the spiritual and emotional scars you are causing, often so deep and long-lasting.
Jesus identified himself more with the outcasts of his day than those who believed themselves a part of the "in crowd" in the temple.
I once knew a preacher who once a month visited a prison to administer to the inmates, until his own outside supporters so hounded and vilified him, he had to stop it.
All are sinners, and all come short of the ideal God wishes for each of us. But by Jesus' scars, all our scars will be healed. But what purpose is there in making more scars for others to deal with?
"Group not allowed" is not only un-American but also unbecoming of the people of Jesus Christ.
How many other groups will be "not allowed" in the future?
Steven Russell, Clear Lake
Letter: Obama's words are socialist, communist
Former President Obama and his wife, Michelle, signed a contract with Netflix to create a documentary series that he hopes will unite people from all walks of life.
Now isn't that a hoot! He had eight years to unite this country and bring races, religions, and income classes together, but all we ended up with was a very divided nation.
President Obama was always quick to blame the police for incidents that took place. He drastically increased the hostility levels between citizens and police officers.
He was very adept at creating a hostility between the earning classes in this country. He once said that just because you're rich doesn't mean you created the wealth based on your talents. He said the wealthy person did not make it on his own, and that everyone else should get credit for the success of the individual. His words smacked of socialism or communism.
Mr. Obama can make his so-called documentaries, but he shouldn't expect many to buy into his theories and anti-capitalistic rhetoric.
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: Hubbell's money made Iowa better
Some people say that they do not “begrudge Fred Hubbell for his wealth.” However, that is exactly what they are doing. They even cite Citizen's United that only dealt with spending for political campaigns by organizations, not by the candidate.
Should Hubbell be excluded from spending his own money to support his own candidacy? Most candidates spend their own money on their own campaigns as well as asking for individual contributions. Besides his own money, Hubbell raised more money than any other Democratic gubernatorial candidate.
Fred Hubbell has a history of spending his time and money for the betterment of Iowans. Chastising Democrats for electing a proven public servant for his generosity only causes a division.
Julie Stewart Ziesman, Waukee
Letter: Remove Dix; release the names
I am surprised whenever I see Republican State Senator Bill Dix quoted in your paper. Why is he still in the Iowa Senate, and why is he still in leadership?
The woman in the Senate Republican office who expressed concerns to him about the sexual harassment of women in the office and on the senate floor was fired by Dix. She reports intolerable conditions, and his instinct is to fire her?! What a disgusting reaction!
Dix might not have been harassing women, but he was in charge, and he allowed it. The harassment in that Republican office was so egregious that a court awarded her $1.75 million, and the Republicans expect the Iowa taxpayers to pay. We should not have to pay!
Let those who are unable to act like decent human beings pay the bill and give us their names. Dix should be gone.
JoAnn Hardy, Mason City
Letter: Children don't speak for all
When adult members of society suggest that we allow our college-age children to educate us and make major societal decisions for us, that is when society is lost. I submit, those who make such suggestions are obviously unfit to decide anything for themselves and fortunately they do not speak for everyone. You can be sure the rest of us stand willing and capable of making sound and responsible judgments for ourselves. Just stay out of the way.
Thomas Frank, Mason City
Letter: Vision, not the mall, is the problem
Oh, come on Mason City Leaders! "Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me!" How many times does it take for Gatehouse Capital to fool you?
I am so frustrated with the leadership of this neighboring city that I spend a lot of time in. I love Mason City and see nothing but potential every time I visit. There is no finer place in northeast Iowa than that beautiful plaza and Central Park area. So, why does it struggle to be vibrant?
You don't need to look any further than your wonderful Mason City Community Theater; the beautiful sculptures that grace the City; the Frank Lloyd Wright complex that brings visitors from the entire world; or Music Man Square to validate my vision.
No, a defunct shopping mall is not the problem.
Sound community development requires visionary, strong leaders and decision makers. It requires citizens who believe and are willing to become invested. As a former city council member and a state senator, I have seen this formula successfully implemented multiple times in communities I served.
Get with it Mason City! Tomorrow is waiting!
Betty Soukup, Clear Lake
Letter: Library conflict is about power
From the time Mary Markwalter took over at the library, she has been trying to get the society out of there. One of the first things she did was to remove about half of their shelving and put it in another room. It was not used for anything, just sitting there empty. But she asserted her authority.
She has not been friendly to the people working in the room (ask some of the genealogy members), being rude and constantly remarking how the society was taking up room, time and library assets while doing nothing meaningful.
Mary enjoys power, and some of us in the society wonder if she really wants (or needs) the room, or whether it's just another attempt to gain total control over her little fiefdom. She runs the building like a prison, which is another example of her desire for power. So I wish everyone would just step back, take a deep breath, and ask the real purpose in this proposed change. Is there a real purpose in this, or just another step in Mary's little game of total control?
Also consider this: once she gets the genealogy department out of there, how long before she sets her sights on the archives room?
The library is a needed, respected and loved part of Mason City. But it should not be run on someone's ego or desire for authority.
Lowell Swenson, Mason City
Letter: Only invasion is shaded in blue
The "blue wave" from election day keeps getting bigger and bluer. Thirty-six House seats flipped now, and Orange County, California flipped totally blue for the first time in 70-plus years.
What happened to that "invasion" of the murderous caravan from Central America that Trump hyped out on 45 times the three weeks before election day but not one time since?
What happened to the "10 percent additional middle class tax cut" Trump promised before the election and hasn't mentioned since?
Trump has chosen arms deal money over justice in believing the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia over our own CIA on the slaughter and dismemberment of an American journalist and resident.
He has been played a fool by Kim Jung Un on nuclear disarmament, as we have discovered 16 secret silos we didn't know he had and there is no deal in writing.
Putin's election interference has been proven and agreed on by our 17 intelligence agencies, and the U.S. president does not take it seriously.
Now, we find daughter Ivanka, senior adviser to Trump, has breached security in the use of her personal email for government business just like what Hillary was accused of. This was Trump's main campaign theme against Hillary for the 2016 election.
The turbulence and drop in the stock market shows indices have lost all those big gains for the year. The 18-month investigation and evidence by the Washington Post that Trump's father was very rich, and by tax cheating schemes, siphoned $800 million to son Donald who said daddy gave him $1 million at age 30 and he paid it back with interest.
The Mueller Russia investigation will wrap up, and I'm not sure they even need Trump's testimony. If he is innocent, he should be demanding to testify.
He doesn't pass that test!
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Mayo tarnishes its legacy in Albert Lea
Mayo is flaunting their success reflected in Becker's Healthcare report in having two of the eight Minnesota hospitals that recently received five-star (top) ratings from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. One of these is Mayo Clinic Health System-Albert Lea.
Instead of rewarding Albert Lea's hospital’s efforts in achieving this distinction, Mayo has removed ICU services from Albert Lea to Austin, Minnesota without any prior discussion. Mayo’s future plan is to remove inpatient surgery and Baby Place. We are sad to be left vulnerable without a full-service hospital.
So for those in other areas that wish for the “honor” of having Mayo as your local hospital, be wary: they are great at what they are known for but they do not belong in rural health care. I feel bad for the Mayo legacy as this is not what the Mayo brothers intended. I think of a quote from Warren Buffett: "It takes at least 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you'll do things differently."
I hope that Mayo will once again honor its value that “the best interest of the patient is the only interest to be considered” before it’s too late to salvage its reputation. We continue to fight for our rights in our community and to preserve our legacy. Please join our cause! This is so important to us as individuals, to retain our history and for the future of our communities.
Merilynn Linde, Albert Lea, Minn.
Letter: Blue wave being doused by Stormy
Poor liberal democrats, you've overplayed your hand and you're losing badly.
The more they talk about Stormy, the more they turn off Americans.
Want to watch liberals lose their minds? Tell them that President Trump is about to win the Nobel Peace Prize. That he's actually earned as opposed to President Obama, who got it for doing nothing.
Isn't that a hoot?
The good news keeps coming for Trump. The economy is booming. Last week it was reported unemployment fell below 4 percent, the lowest since 2000. ADP also reported that in April U.S. Private Companies added more than 200,000 jobs for the fifth month in a row.
Obama bragged nonstop about quantity, never mentioning that his job growth consisted mostly of crappy, low-wage, part-time jobs that required food stamps to survive. Trump's new jobs are great jobs. Manufacturing, mining, and professional service jobs led the way in the April report. Over the past 12 months, manufacturing has added 245,000 high wage jobs.
The Democrats response? Bring up Stormy the porn star. It's all liberals want to talk about. CNN and MSNBC have given Stormy wall-to-wall coverage for the past two months.
The result? Trump and the GOP are exploding in the polls. Blue wave in November? Not anymore. This obsession with Stormy is a disaster for Democrats.
Most recent polls show Trump at a robust 51 percent approval at Rasmussen. Far above where he was on Election Day, and also far above where Obama was at the same time in his presidency.
So here's my message for Democrats: Please keep talking about Stormy. Ignore jobs. Ignore the economy. Ignore the tragedy of Obamacare. Ignore illegal immigration. Make it all about Stormy 24/7.
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: Levy requests don't add up
I, Jack McCourt, plan on beating the school board on their asking for renewal of two levies.
A retired school teacher told me they hired Versteeg because he was a good financial expert. According to the Globe, his first budget is $700,000 short.
The common people in Mason City still run this town when they get out and vote. There is a lot more of us than the ones that are called the elite. Who in their right mind would approve giving any tax spenders 10 years of your taxes against your house?
I hope the student enrollment doesn't keep going down, 110 students a year. Our buildings are built to hold 6,000 kids. Do we still even have 3,000?
The gas and list cost is the same, regardless of how many are attending. When I went to school, we had a school dentist and free drivers training.
Jack McCourt, Mason City
Letter: Mason City PD respects one of their own
The respect by the Mason City Police Department and former staff to one of their own, Lloyd Boone, was appreciated.
The officers were part of the honor guard and escort to the cemetery with several cops standing beside their vehicles in the blowing cold and stopping traffic for the motorcade.
Especially touching to me was the salute Lloyd received by a young policeman.
Thank you.
Janis Garrard, Mason City
Letter: More to the county treasurer race
Oh Skipper, there you go again! While there are certainly twists in this year’s elections, there are many more twists than what's been reported.
When writing about the challenge to incumbent Pat Wright who has been treasurer for eight years, and worked in that office for 40, you stated Natasha Lewerke was fired from the Treasurer’s office “for an error in dispersal of funds involving car dealerships.” The Globe Gazette newspaper reported on June 2016 that the State's audit revealed "based on the DOT's calculation, a dealership and a company performing upfitting avoided paying approximately $283,867.” That’s one heck of an error; it wasn’t a dispersal. I think it was one dealership and one company that turned chassis into saleable trucks; no cars involved. The devil’s in the details.
I’ve got to admit that Natasha is not short on moxie, responding to her termination by suing Cerro Gordo County, Pat Wright as treasurer and Pat Wright personally. The case was dismissed with prejudice. "The lawsuit continued to be drug out [sic] and it was most important for me to be able to run for this position," Lewerke said. "Pursuing my dream to be treasurer is much bigger than any lawsuit." I guess so! Her signs just say “County Treasurer Natasha Lewerke."
Skipper got one part very right, people are not real aware of county elections. Next time you look at one of Natasha’s signs, imagine an uninformed voter seeing it. Doesn’t she appear to be the incumbent? “Re-elect Pat Wright for Treasurer” seems a bit more forthright.
Oh well, this year it seems that the Republicans are abounding in truthiness … like attributing a political portfolio to a first-time candidate because her husband’s brother won a seat. My son-in-law’s a brewer; think Fat Hill will let me run their vats?
Tracy Smith, Clear Lake
Letter: Smart meters look like a dumb deal
Iowa Consumer Advocate Mark Schuling is opposing Alliant Energy’s smart meter rollout at an Iowa Utility Board hearing Nov. 5 in Des Moines. Many Attorneys General and state utility boards around the country have opposed smart meters due to many studies showing no cost benefit, just rate hikes.
Smart meters cost about six times more than analog meters, with one-third the lifetime. There is also the multi-million-dollar initial cash expense to replace 481,000 working analog meters.
Studies show that the faster outage reporting that Alliant and other utility companies claim do not result in faster service restoration.
U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry has warned about serious dangers to America’s security from the smart grid and smart meters. So has former CIA Director James Woolsey, calling the smart grids “stupid” on national TV (along with many other cyber security experts and institutions).
The ACLU and many others oppose smart meters for privacy violation: a $2.2 trillion per year data market is expected, for selling detailed customer personal lifestyle data. Alliant claims it will not sell data, but Alliant customer service reps have told me, “We may change any policy at any time without notice.”
Although Alliant’s planned opt out meter has been shown to be acceptable for health, Alliant’s proposed opt out proposal is severe: We would read our own meter, pay $15/month (Alliant saves millions each year by laying off meter readers), with a four-day monthly window to submit readings (our travel scheduled around reading our meter, and no more opt outs allowed after an temporary opt out period - in perpetuity).
Oppose the smart meter roll out by contacting the Iowa Utility Board.
Einar Olsen, Fairfield
Letter: Trump meets all the wrong criteria
The narcissistic personality occurs where a person has an inflated sense of their own importance and seeks to gain recognition of this from others. Other symptoms could be preoccupation with fantasies of power, success, intelligence and focus on self with little empathy for others. Behaving in an arrogant and entitled manner and seeking constant admiration, praise and approval, exaggeration of achievements and abilities are others.
Because the narcissistic personality has such focus on them, they have little time for considering the needs of others. In order to be successful, they must be better than others, which may make other people the enemy. Their lack of real concern for others also leads them to prodding and bullying people into making them feel good. When they find such compliant people they will make full, unfair and unkind use of them.
Count up the number of staffers Trump has trashed and fired. Either he made some huge errors in judgement or he couldn't have his way with them. His attitude may be characterized as 'you're either with me or against me'. Fired FBI director James Comey would come to mind here.
Narcissistic personalities are often successful in business, where their need for praise leads to hard work and success. Initially they may project a friendly and helpful image, but their true nature emerges later when there is blame (which they cannot take) and recognition (which they crave) being handed out. They make terrible managers (or presidents), stealing all the glory and blaming others for their own failures.
Narcissists are different from psychopaths, although there may be significant overlap. The psychopath values control while the narcissist seeks to inflate their sense of identity. I think it is obvious that Trump qualifies for both, and that scares me! He must go!
Steven Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Iowa's can policy is a dump
OK. So people are finding it more and more difficult to redeem their cans and bottles to recoup the 5-cent (per container) deposit they paid when purchasing beverages.
Iowa law requires beverage sellers to redeem the 5 cents for containers they sold.
But what about the people (and I'm pretty sure there are many of us) that purchase a six-pack at one store. And a 12-pack at another store. And a six-pack at a different store. And a 24-pack at a (still) different store; etc., etc.
Some of these people may not ever return to the store(s) of purchase because of the inconvenience or whatever.
Others prefer to "amass" their 5-cent containers and cash them all in at once. At one location.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that: A) landfills will soon be flooded with beverage containers; and B) so will Iowa's roadways.
People will toss them out their car windows. Or throw them in their trash. People who search for these nickels (helps keep roadways cleaner) will no longer bother if there is no longer a reliable redemption center where they can easily cash them in. Just a few things that would make recipients of all those 5-cent deposits able to keep that cash. Cha-ching!
A possible solution might be that the State of Iowa should establish its own redemption centers. Either that or the beverage wholesalers should put their competitiveness aside and open their own redemption centers.
So wake up, Iowa!
Bill Amos, Plymouth
Letter: Neighbor trades profits for pollution
I have lived in Hardy since 1999. I moved to the country with the great outdoors in mind – but boy, was I wrong!
In the fall of 2014, I learned that two 2,500-head hog factories were being built just 2,599 feet east of my acreage. I was never asked or told anything about it – just that Hawker Farms II (one of Iowa Select's many LLCs) was moving in next door.
My home is becoming a prison due to the smell. Yardwork and sitting outside is no longer a joy – it has become a nightmare.
The amount of money that has been spent on Golden Malrin just to kill the flies is outrageous.
My property value will be lower when I decide to sell the acreage.
I fear for my health and water contamination by the way this factory farm manure is being spread near me.
It's already bad enough, but now, Iowa Select is putting up yet another hog factory south of me.
We get the pollution while CEO Jeff Hansen gets all the profits. These buildings are still sprouting up all over Iowa. This has got to stop. We need a moratorium!
Kathy Johnson, Hardy
Letter: Time is running out on Trump
There is no longer any justification for being a Trump supporter. I could see during the campaign and election and Hillary's unpopularity that some could have been hornswoggled by Trump's unconscionable lies, poor judgement, and lack of knowledge about most everything. But after a year and a half of "much worse than we could have ever imagined," it's time for a reality check.
Trump inherited a healthy and recovering economy, no wars, unemployment rate at 4.7 percent and dropping, and we had strong and healthy relations with our allies, while we were sanctioning foes like Russia and North Korea. The stock market had tripled over the last eight years. There was economic momentum, and Trump quickly started taking credit for it even before the inauguration.
There is not one positive action taken or positive result under Trump, and with all the executive orders and legislation that has occurred, there is only one direction for the country to go. Do you think if Trump could push a button and make himself "supreme ruler", he wouldn't do it?
Republicans are too gutless to take charge of their party and pay the price to do what is right for democracy and America's future. Now Trump wants to have his new friend "Kimmie" at the White House, along with Putin, for a dictator party. Kim is a psychotic killer of his own people, even his uncle and half-brother. Trump excuses it by saying ,"Well other countries have done bad stuff." Trump brags that he "did a hell of a job over there and that the nuclear threat is gone."
Really? I predict Mueller with have his ducks in a row, and Trump will be one of them. He is a consummate law-and-order professional, and Trump can only act guilty in the meantime.
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Our boat isn't big enough for all
Illegal and legal immigration has been a big issue that has divided many of us.
As Christians, we believe God gave us the Ten Commandments to live by, as our government gives us laws to live by. We have God's laws and our government's laws to keep order in our lives and country. When the government does not enforce these laws, it causes great disorder that we are experiencing.
When should you stand for the laws or when do you stand for compromise? Or do we have to give up one for the other? We all need to compromise, but at what point do you compromise if it is giving up your laws and values?
Of all the countries in the world, the U.S. leads in the number of immigrants we let into our country to become citizens. We should welcome people into our country to become citizens, if they come here legally. The U.S. can only allow so many people across our borders. Compare our country to a big boat. We can only allow so many people across our borders, or, as a boat, we too will surely sink.
Ask yourself: is my business, church or house ever locked? If yes, why? Why do I not have more children? Why not 20 or 30? Do I not try to monitor my children so they choose friends wisely? People coming into our country to become citizens should be monitored very carefully for their principles and willingness to assimilate. Why do we have a broken immigration system?
What is the answer? To me, the answer is to enforce the laws we have now until such time they can be changed. We need to control immigration first by controlling our borders. Only then can we reform immigration.
Alyce Hugeback, Hampton
Letter: A version of a better society
Help me stop public ownership of handguns for civilians. Only law enforcement and military should have handguns. It does not take away your right to bear arms. You can still have guns that kill – shotguns and rifles!
Sex for money is illegal and everyone knows this, so why isn't porn against the law? It is the same as prostitution!
Same-sex marriage should not be in the church. It is against the morals of the church!
Reginald Noling, Rudd
Letter: On accusations and hypocrisy
Liberal hypocrisy....Christine Ford has accused Judge Kavanaugh of sexual assault that supposedly occurred over 36 years ago with very vague details including lack of date, place it occurred, and who may have been present. Yet many Democrat leaders believe her without question.
On the flip side, Democrats have elected Keith Ellison in Minnesota to run for Attorney General, and he holds the No. 2 position in the DNC. Mr. Ellison has been charged with assault by his ex-girlfriend, where there is a credible 911 call tape describing the assault as evidence.
Democrats still hold the Clintons in high regard despite the numerous claims of sexual assault by Bill while governor of Arkansas, and of course his affair with Monica Lewinsky while in the White House, an intern less than half his age, is well documented. Hillary verbally attacked all his victims, yet she was selected by the Democrats to run for president, and remains a major voice for the party.
Are only women who accuse Republicans not Democrats to be believed?
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: Putting people above profits
I know there are North Iowans like me who are either on our Medicaid program or know people who are. We know how important it is for Iowans of little income or who are severely disabled to get the medical care and treatment they need and still be able to enjoy some quality of life. We cannot continue to “experiment” and fail with such an essential program that is desperately needed by over half a million Iowans.
Gov. Reynolds, who appears to dish out happy talk like “It will get better tomorrow,” recently hired a subsidiary, Iowa Total Care, of Centene, a huge Missouri company that has paid over $23 million in penalties in over 12 states, to replace AmeriHealth Caritas.
Fred Hubbell says he will return our failing Medicaid program to a state-run program like Connecticut did for its people. Fred knows how to strengthen any weaknesses in the old program and make it better. As a caring sensitive and sensible businessman, Fred Hubbell knows it is wise not to continually put profit above people.
Johanna Anderson, Osage
Letter: Class of '68 reunion a success
I just returned home to Minnesota after spending an exhilarating weekend in Mason City for the Class of 1968's 50th reunion! And we are all 68 – how often does that happen? We had an excellent turnout, nearly 200 attendees from a class of 480-plus, and we have at least 77 deceased that we know of.
The local committee did an outstanding job planning and carrying out the reunion and it was so much fun to see classmates we've known lately only through Facebook, and before Facebook probably not at all.
Lynne Ploetz, Hanover, Minn.
Letter: Stomp out childhood cancer
September marks the beginning of Fall Festivals and fun activities for many but for many others this month is for Childhood Cancer Awareness and trying to publicize the need for new and better treatments for the children diagnosed with childhood cancer.
In our geographical region, a child diagnosed with cancer will be treated in one of three locations: University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital in Iowa City, Mayo Clinic in Rochester or Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines. For these kids and their families, this involves hospitalizations at those locations for varying amounts of time, ambulance rides because of fevers or other reactions to treatment and often one parent leaving the workforce to become a full time caregiver. Of the precious children diagnosed, one out of five will die, survivors are more likely to develop secondary cancers, heart failure and other health problems with about 35% dying within 35 years of diagnosis.
But what is truly unacceptable is that so little progress has been made in finding new treatments for these kids! Only 4 percent of the National Cancer Institute’s budget is designated for childhood cancer research. In the last 30 years, only three new drugs have been approved that were specifically developed to treat children with cancer. When you consider that childhood cancer is not one disease but is comprised of 12 major types and over 100 subtypes, it is easy to see much more is needed.
So, with September being designated Go Gold for Childhood Cancer Awareness, please find a way to support further research for kids. One way is to support a fundraiser Stomping Out Childhood Cancer on Sept 29 at Surf District Rock ‘n Roll Grill, Clear Lake.
Please help stomp out childhood cancer!
Donna Buol, Clear Lake
Letter: Hubbell will restore health care
Fred Hubbell and Rita Hart are the perfect pair to rid our state of this Medicaid privatization nightmare, and once again restore a system that is run by Iowans and delivers the health care to Iowans that we need.
Fred, since he began campaigning, has been a stalwart advocate for reversing the disastrous privatization that the Branstad-Reynolds administration enacted unilaterally. That move wasn't just a terrible display of partisanship – it stole health care from Iowans who need it the most.
Not only that, it is delaying and denying payments to Iowa providers that are struggling to stay in business, and many of them, especially in rural communities across the state, are closing their doors as a result.
I am voting for Hubbell-Hart, because from Day One they will turn around this failure, and instead create a system run by Iowans that will expand good, quality health care.
This is the type of leadership we need in Iowa. Iowa needs a governor who can deliver results in restoring access to health care.
Bob Wymore, Mason City
Letter: Writer's zone isn't very quiet
I thought the city adopted quiet zones for certain areas of the city? Why aren't they being enforced?
Over the last several weeks, the train horns have been sounding for every train that has passed through the city north and south of State Street. Shouldn't the city or the police be able to make contact with Union Pacific and issue citations or fines for violating the ordinance?
Why did the city spend the money for the additional barricades for several of the crossings and allow the closure of other crossings if they are not going to hold the railroad to their part of the agreement?
Are there other frustrated citizens out there that want something done about this?
Where are our city council members that live in these areas? Why are they not saying something about this?
They can certainly hear the whistles. Was the five-year battle to get the quiet zones for nothing?
Jon Wiese, Mason City
Letter: Vote to restore former health system
More than one-quarter of Iowans – or more than 600,000 people – rely on Medicaid for their health care. Among them are people regarded as vulnerable in our society: those who are disabled, economically disadvantaged, or elderly.
Unfortunately, they often don’t have a voice that gets heard on political issues. They certainly didn’t ask for Medicaid privatization. Gov. Branstad did it without legislative collaboration. Gov. Reynolds and Rep. Tedd Gassman refuse to recognize the harm they are inflicting.
Privatization began in April 2016. Since then, Iowa has thrown billions away to out-of-state corporations. The new system has been a disaster despite what the current administration says. Underpayments to medical providers, denial of coverage for medical goods, and denial of care previously covered have harmed people locally. Families now strain to fill gaps once provided for by the state system.
Iowans acknowledge the need for Medicaid. I lived unaware of how vital it was until I had a son who needed it. I regret this is a dangerous time. Many of our current legislators refuse to admit that privatization isn’t working. It won’t be easy, but the former system of Iowans providing care for Iowans must be restored.
Debra Jensen, candidate for Iowa House, is ready for the task. As a public health nurse, she witnessed problems first-hand and understands what needs to happen to fix them. As my wife and I get older, we need to know a quality Medicaid system will be there for our son when we aren’t. Help our family and others by voting for Deb Jensen.
Mark Newcom, Forest City
Letter: Which cape will library board wear?
Will the Library Board of Trustees – John Henry, president; Dennis Reidel, vice president; Carrie Berg, Mark Dodd, Jennifer Lee, Dave Moore, Shelly Schmidt; and Library Director Mary Markwalter become heroes or villains? The board has an opportunity at its Sept. 18 meeting to make that decision.
They can become heroes by rescinding their vote to evict the Genealogy Library, or villains by evicting the Genealogy Library on Sept. 30. Note: Mark Dodd and Jennifer Lee were not trustees when the eviction was voted on.
They might become heroes in the eyes of the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society, that owns the collection of 5,000-plus books and materials housed in the Genealogy Library and their thousands of supporters who have come forward upon hearing of the eviction. Many supporters are not genealogists but feel the Genealogy Library should remain as an integral part of the MCPL.
They will definitely be villains if they uphold their vote to evict the Genealogy Library. Notes from library board meetings:
In March, noted the GL provided no income, need to determine what revenue it might generate.
In April, director stated she needs to talk to NCiGS about paying rent, (but never did contact us).
In May, voted to evict GL.
In August, interview announced room to become meeting room with usage fee.
Records show that the library only generated $1,315 FY2018 from the rooms it rents, yet it needs to add another rental room? NCIGS has offered to pay a guaranteed $1,200 a year, which has not been accepted.
The thing is, NICIGS would have gladly paid a nominal rental fee all the years it has occupied the space in the MCPL. We were never asked for rent, but now they are making us look like the villains.
So will the library board choose to be heroes or villains?
Mark Suby, Mason City
Letter: Dedor offers unique House option
I want to go on record endorsing Richard Dedor to represent Iowa House District 19 as an Independent. Since he isn’t tied to the Republican or Democratic parties, he offers a unique option to voters this election. I know Richard will focus on the job to be done and in making the right choice for Iowans. Our future leader is willing and eager to put people ahead of political parties.
One example of what he plans to do in office is offering real solutions to help the state’s economy. While reviewing his jobs plan, I realized its great potential, when matched with key education reforms, to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, doctors and teachers. His new approach gives the same stale problems of the past new life and new hope.
Richard exemplifies honesty, fairness, balance and innovation. I know he’s excited to take on this new challenge and move Iowa toward a better future for all. I ask you to throw your support behind him this election and give him the chance to work for you.
Tracie Dedor, Mason City
Letter: Public, club deserve library truth
On May 30, the Mason City Library Board served notice to the North Iowa Genealogical Society to vacate the space that they are using at the library. The Genealogical Society has been housed in the library for about four decades. I read the reason for the eviction at first was the space was to be used for youth. Now it’s my understanding the reason has changed to the library would like to rent the genealogical room space out for meeting space to the general public for additional income.
I read the July 17 financial report for the Mason City library. It reflects the total amount of meeting room fees collected at the library in fiscal year 2018 (July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018) was $1,315.
On Aug. 21, the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society offered to pay rent in the amount of $1,200 a year to the library. If the genealogy board rental offer is accepted by the library board, this would nearly double the annual rental income for the library.
As a former banker, that if the library doesn’t accept their offer, it would seem the eviction may be for other than financial reasons.
The library should be truthful for the reason for the eviction, not only to the genealogy club members, but to the taxpayers that have come to the library board meetings in support of leaving the genealogy room in the library. Perhaps cool heads will prevail and a compromise can be reached.
Patty Paul, Boerne, Texas
Letter: Haven't we heard this before?
My mind drifts back to the presidential campaign of 1972 when I was a young boy. There were many contenders in the race, but two would surge to the forefront: Richard Nixon and George McGovern.
McGovern was the democratic hopeful. He believed in the immediate pull out of the war in Vietnam. He wanted amnesty for draft-dodgers and deserters. He wanted tax cuts for middle income Americans. In short, he was as close to a Democratic socialist as you could get in 1972. He was ultimately brought down by a poor choice for vice president.
Nixon was already under investigation for his role in the Watergate break-in. Running on a conservative platform, he whipped up a rabid following, even though there was strong evidence building that he was a "crook," a charge he would vehemently deny. His followers chose to ignore the evidence and Nixon was elected for a second term.
Fast forward to 2016. We had two choices in our presidential election, neither of them were worthy of our vote. Hillary looked as crooked as Nixon, and Trump filled his rabid followers with rhetoric that sounded like it came from the mouth of an inexperienced 14-year-old boy.
The election was Hillary’s to lose, and lose she did. She was brought down under the weight of her husband’s scandals as well as her own poor judgement.
Scandal after scandal and a propensity for making false statements and grandiose plans wouldn’t keep Trump out of the White House. Haven’t we heard this story before?
All in all, America has been sold a bill of goods, and was left with only two choices, very bad choices, to lead this nation and the free world. All we can do now is hunker down and wait for 2020, hoping history will not repeat itself.
Paul Barenthin, Northwood
Letter: GOP has a long list of problems
The Republican Party, lead by Donald Trump, were and are willing to:
• Give large tax breaks to the top 1 percent of Americans, which sky rocketed the national debt, while denying pay raises to federal employees. Have you heard our Republican governor, senators or House members rebuke this? No.
• Allow so-called health insurance policies to be sold without knowing what will, or will not be covered. And to legally allow discrimination towards those persons who have health issues.
• Deny Medicaid patients the care they so desperately need. Deny adequate reimbursement to healthcare providers for their services due to Medicaid privatization. Medicaid privatization was done as a cost saving measure. But Gov. Reynolds can't show us the numbers that she has actually saved our state money. This so-called saving was done at the expense of health care services to Iowa families.
• Allowing alternative facts known to be false to serve the purpose of their political cause.
• Cast aside American values, principles and ideals, while watching Mr. Trump show lack of respect towards John McCain, and veterans in general. All the while Republicans being too afraid to speak out against this kind of behavior.
Please consider voting for the Democrats values:
• Honesty, truthfulness, respect and inclusiveness.
• Health care for all without discrimination.
• Equitable taxation the puts people first over corporations.
• Immigration reform done in a humane fashion.
• Where care for Iowans and our environment takes precedence over profits.
• Providing adequate resources/funding for our public schools to ensure a stable and 21st century education for all Iowa children.
As for our local elections, I support Connie Price for House Representative District 8, as she believes in all of the above democratic values. Please vote on Nov. 6.
Lissa Holloway, Britt
Letter: Blum's woes are his own doing
U.S. Rep. Rod Blum ripped a page straight from President Trump’s playbook when news broke that the two-term Republican is under investigation by the House Committee on Ethics: He lashed out at his opponent — and news outlets for reporting the story.
Democrats and the media aren’t to blame for the Blum's ethical shortcomings any more than politics played a role in the decision to open an investigation.
The case was referred by the Office of Congressional Ethics, an independent and nonpartisan panel that reviews allegations of misconduct by members of Congress. The House Committee on Ethics, which agreed that Blum’s actions warranted further investigation, is similarly balanced. The committee has an equal number of Republicans and Democrats, with a representative from Blum’s own party serving in the top post as chair.
Blum accused his opponent and other Democrats of waging "a crusade of personal destruction on me and other principled leaders working to drain the swamp in Washington — this is the Swamp fighting back."
He also attacked the media for simply doing their job by covering the story: “Still, the complicit media continues to take its cues from the Democratic party and they work to make mountains out of molehills in order to deliver an election scandal headline.”
No, Representative. For all your bullying and misdirected finger-pointing, this is the House Committee on Ethics holding you accountable for your own misdeeds.
The Ethics committee won't announce its findings, including any penalties, until December. First District voters will have an opportunity to make their voices heard before that, on election day.
Cynthia Moothart, Minneapolis
Letter: Our path of unintended fallout
Farming and other professions come with some hard lessons, many the result of unintended consequences of past policies, practices and good intentions.
Even engineers inside companies like Facebook and Google wrestle questions whether sacrificing principles for a paycheck are really worth the risk.
“Business as usual” that obsesses on lucrative balance sheets and “growing the economy” may be futile if the outcomes are adverse climate change, melting ice caps, species extinction, more severe storms, flooding, droughts, fires, famine, and economic collapse.
Human nature is tempted to seek short-term personal comfort and wealth. Regrettably, it is easier to succumb to the temptation to ignore or marginalize the long-term consequences on the rest of creation.
We seem to be preoccupied with pursuits of lifestyles and methods of commerce that cultivate an unsustainable false economy. How long can we “cut corners” to exploit our ability to maximize profits without regard for the enormous cost of restoring our mutual life support systems?
By ignoring externalized costs, we risk adverse climate change that jeopardizes our ability to sustain abundant production of healthful food. As stated by retired ISU Professor and Nobel-Prize winning panelist Gene Takle, imagine corn trying to pollinate in a 108-degree oven, or “look at adding air-conditioning” to hog buildings when temperatures are 13 degrees higher in the dead of summer.
Transitioning to regenerative ag and restoring healthy soils are urgent.
Dr. Edward Wenk, Jr., in his 1979 book, Margins for Survival, stated, “We seem to have spun a cultural web where the predilection for the short run may constitute a self-fulfilling prophecy that by benign neglect of the longer run, there may be none.”
Only about two months remain for citizens to vote for responsible congressional, state and local candidates who comprehend the gravity of the consequences of climate change.
Roger R. Patocka, Estherville
Letter: Library doesn't own my work
I have written over 40 family histories using resources of the Genie Room. Regarding the Sigdal Eggedal Family and Farm Book, I translated the 1,208 pages. I did not ask for or receive money for the Danish and Swedish dictionaries, nor the 800 sheets of paper and two ink cartridges.
The Library Board must not be aware that I own the intellectual property rights, as does everyone who gave a family history to the Genie collection. I will not assign my rights over the the library to place my books into the public domain. I have information of still living people that I must protect.
I hope that someone will find information from the translation.
Carol Pannhoff, Mason City
Letter: Keep county office under Wright
RE: Pat Wright, Cerro Gordo County treasurer
Having known Pat for nearly 40 years, I feel I have a good measure of her character. Pat is experienced, honest, watchful and hard working.
Re-elect Pat Wright to continue to keep our county treasurer office under competent leadership.
Rosalie Boozell, Mason City
Letter: Kavanaugh, Court should rule on law's intent
The Supreme Court is filling a vacancy. All who want a Constitutional court want Kavanaugh to get the post.
The Court should rule on original intent, not a new law, as it proved in the abortion issue.
Since the Court slammed its gavel against decency and the meaning of a civilized nation, the Court has allowed 300 million abortions.
That is something to drink your coffee in the morning by.
Russell McAfee
Letter: Schedule the tax sale as soon as possible
I came to Mason City early October 1958 to join the carpentry apprentice program. I retired in 2003, and that's worked out OK for me. Forty-five years of building (mostly housing, some commercial), and 35 years of real estate. Sears' new shopping center was being rushed to completion that fall for the Christmas shopping rush. That seamed to have worked out OK.
Seemed like not that many years later a North Iowa developer and a Clear Lake realtor decided to build a smaller shopping center along Highway 18 to the west.That seems to be working out OK.
Then came the talk of needing to do a downtown shopping area. I don't recall who owned it or who built it, but it seemed to work out OK for a long time.
I have not completed a large amount of research on the details of these owners. However as far as I know, all of the many houses I built are still paying taxes.
I have never herd of anyone selling, transferring, improving, or mortgaging property with three or four years of tax leans on any or all of the parcels.
First thing tomorrow morning, there needs to be a tax sale filed on Southbridge Mall.
Then the Chamber and or the City can start the planning of what would be nice downtown. Maybe the first thing could be renaming it City Center or something.
It's really a nice location for shopping and has a great center court for our less-than-perfect weather.
Don Kibsgaard, Mason City
Letters to the editor: Wrong about the left, tyrants, candidates, health care
Letter: Writer has it wrong about the left
This is in response to John Johnson's letter regarding the left's supposedly hypocritical stance on border control versus gun control.
First off, most people on the left do not have any problem with having a border that is safe and secure, both for the sake of the citizens of the United States as well as the citizens of Mexico. Our issue with border control relates more to how some politicians choose to implement those security measures, and the ideas they have to try and solve the problem (building a wall that will do nothing to actually stop people from coming here, for instance, and which would be a complete waste of money that could be put to much better use).
We also take issue with the nasty rhetoric used by some to describe immigrants. Whether they're here legally or not, they deserve to be treated like human beings. Stereotyping and discriminating against them is not the way to tackle the issue.
Second, an immigrant's legal status does not have any bearing whatsoever on how likely they are to commit murder. That's not how it works. The vast majority of undocumented/illegal immigrants are non-violent. Besides that, plenty of people have been killed by citizens who were either born and raised in this country or came here legally, too.
Finally, John, if you want your view points to be taken seriously and respected, maybe drop the snide tone and dismissal of "lefties", as well as the jabs at Hogg. Just saying.
Angela Niles, Mason City
Letter: Tyrants can't defame the free press
You may remember the Pentagon Papers case. The decision from the Supreme Court shows us why we can't have a delusional tyrant defame the free press. From Justice Black, concurring with Justice Douglas regarding New York Times v. United States:
"In the First Amendment, the Founding Fathers gave the free press the protection it must have to fulfill its essential role in our democracy. The press was to serve the governed, not the governors. The Government's power to censor the press was abolished so that the press would remain forever free to censure the Government. The press was protected so that it could bare the secrets of government and inform the people.
"Only a free and unrestrained press can effectively expose deception in government. And paramount among the responsibilities of a free press is the duty to prevent any part of the government from deceiving the people and sending them off to distant lands to die of foreign fevers and foreign shot and shell.
"In my view, far from deserving condemnation for their courageous reporting, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and other newspapers should be commended for serving the purpose that the Founding Fathers saw so clearly. In revealing the workings of government that led to the Vietnam war, the newspapers nobly did precisely that which the Founders hoped and trusted they would do."
Paul Barenthin, Northwood
Letter: Albert Lea regains control of health care
It has been over a year since we started our journey to save Albert Lea's health care. We have rallied, lobbied, raised funds, attended countless meetings, written letters, called politicians and visited the state capitol. I and several others even learned how to tweet!
We are fortunate that Save Our Healthcare has the support of both city and county. There are many brilliant, determined and compassionate people working together to accomplish our goal to regain control of our health care.
Have you ever heard the song “Unanswered Prayers?" I believe that we will live to appreciate the turn of events that started a year ago. Let go of the past and look to the future! In the meantime, we still have ER, clinic, same-day surgery, Health Reach, and cancer center. Mayo will provide surgery here until 2019 and baby delivery until 2020. Soon Mayo will add inpatient behavioral health to treat the mentally ill (a disease like cancer or diabetes; with proper care, there is much hope.)
We are now in the first phase with the consulting firm that will guide us in restoring our lost services. We have had many calls from potential providers that are interested in our endeavor. They recognize that at the intersection of two interstates lies a beautiful city with caring residents, an historic downtown, vibrant businesses and thriving education institutions. They see a Blue Zone community with walking trails, bike trails, parks, gorgeous lakes, beautiful assisted living centers, and much more.
Remember that you are an important part of our success.
Merilynn Linde, Albert Lea, Minn.
Letter: Kavanaugh is the right pick
The process for confirming President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee has started. As a member of Concerned Women for America of Iowa, I support the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh.
Kavanaugh was confirmed to the D.C. Circuit Court in 2006, and his record is exemplary, supporting the Constitution and its original intent. Not only does his record show that he is a guardian of our liberties as spelled out in the Constitution, he is highly regarded by those with whom he has worked. He has an extensive resume from clerking in the Ninth and Third Circuit Courts to serving as associate counsel and senior associate counsel to President George W. Bush.
Alberto R. Gonzales, former Attorney General of the United States, has remarked that Kavanaugh understands the appropriate role of a judge, that he is disciplined and not arrogant.
Kavanaugh is the kind of individual that I want as a public servant. He has demonstrated that he bases his rulings within the confines of the Constitution and that he is a conservator of liberty. He is highly capable, and I believe he is an excellent nominee for the Supreme Court.
Carol A. Evers, Riverside
Letter: More to the county treasurer race
Oh Skipper, there you go again! While there are certainly twists in this year’s elections, there are many more twists than what's been reported.
When writing about the challenge to incumbent Pat Wright who has been treasurer for eight years, and worked in that office for 40, you stated Natasha Lewerke was fired from the Treasurer’s office “for an error in dispersal of funds involving car dealerships.” The Globe Gazette newspaper reported on June 2016 that the State's audit revealed "based on the DOT's calculation, a dealership and a company performing upfitting avoided paying approximately $283,867.” That’s one heck of an error; it wasn’t a dispersal. I think it was one dealership and one company that turned chassis into saleable trucks; no cars involved. The devil’s in the details.
I’ve got to admit that Natasha is not short on moxie, responding to her termination by suing Cerro Gordo County, Pat Wright as treasurer and Pat Wright personally. The case was dismissed with prejudice. "The lawsuit continued to be drug out [sic] and it was most important for me to be able to run for this position," Lewerke said. "Pursuing my dream to be treasurer is much bigger than any lawsuit." I guess so! Her signs just say “County Treasurer Natasha Lewerke."
Skipper got one part very right, people are not real aware of county elections. Next time you look at one of Natasha’s signs, imagine an uninformed voter seeing it. Doesn’t she appear to be the incumbent? “Re-elect Pat Wright for Treasurer” seems a bit more forthright.
Oh well, this year it seems that the Republicans are abounding in truthiness … like attributing a political portfolio to a first-time candidate because her husband’s brother won a seat. My son-in-law’s a brewer; think Fat Hill will let me run their vats?
Tracy Smith, Clear Lake
Letter: Left can't have it both ways
Hey lefties, question: If gun control is the answer to school shootings, would not border control be the answer to illegals killing American citizens?
And before you whine about politicizing the death of Mollie Tibbetts at the hands of an illegal immigrant, you and your happy cohorts in the media need to look at yourself and your gushing support the likes of David “cameraman” Hogg. Newspapers ran stories covering his nationwide bus tour.
John Johnson, Britt
Letter: Wife-beaters, child-abusers shouldn't have guns
In 2014, the Iowa Gun Owners sent their Federal Candidate survey to then candidate Rod Blum. They asked Rod Blum if he supports repealing the “Lautenberg Domestic Misdemeanor Gun Ban.” The Lautenberg Amendment, named after Sen. Frank Lautenberg, made it illegal for convicted domestic abusers to buy a gun. Domestic abuse victims need such protections because these victims are five times as likely to end up dead if their abuser can access a gun. Sen. Lautenberg argued that wife-beaters and child-abusers should not have guns. But Rod Blum wanted to repeal the Lautenberg Amendment, in essence saying, wife-beaters and child-abusers should have guns.
On this same survey, Blum vowed to oppose any expansion of background checks to purchase a firearm. Those who currently wish to purchase guns or ammo without undergoing a background check can do so through private gun sales or over the internet. Most gun owners and NRA members want universal background checks. They support universal background checks because, as law-abiding citizens, they do not want criminals and people with mental health issues to access guns. But Rod Blum opposed universal background checks.
In April 2017, I spoke to Rep. Blum in person. I wrote down questions about Blum’s survey answers, gave him the paper with my contact info, and asked him to respond to these questions. Blum took the paper, shook my hand, looked me in the eye, and promised to respond to these questions. Rod Blum never contacted me about this or answered my questions. As a concerned citizen, I do not want women and children who have suffered abuse to be shot by their abusers. And as a voter, I do not want a representative who tells me to my face he will answer these questions, and then breaks that promise.
Caleb Gates, Cedar Rapids
Letter: Library conflict is about power
From the time Mary Markwalter took over at the library, she has been trying to get the society out of there. One of the first things she did was to remove about half of their shelving and put it in another room. It was not used for anything, just sitting there empty. But she asserted her authority.
She has not been friendly to the people working in the room (ask some of the genealogy members), being rude and constantly remarking how the society was taking up room, time and library assets while doing nothing meaningful.
Mary enjoys power, and some of us in the society wonder if she really wants (or needs) the room, or whether it's just another attempt to gain total control over her little fiefdom. She runs the building like a prison, which is another example of her desire for power. So I wish everyone would just step back, take a deep breath, and ask the real purpose in this proposed change. Is there a real purpose in this, or just another step in Mary's little game of total control?
Also consider this: once she gets the genealogy department out of there, how long before she sets her sights on the archives room?
The library is a needed, respected and loved part of Mason City. But it should not be run on someone's ego or desire for authority.
Lowell Swenson, Mason City
Letter: Sour grapes over baseball title
Congratulations to Mason City Newman on its baseball championship this summer. However, I wonder if it is somewhat tainted. While attending a Lisbon game this summer, I overheard a fan say, "Everyone hates Newman because they recruit players." It is evidently legal in Iowa but could be considered morally objectionable.
Putting all that aside, here is my main reason for this letter. I was not able to attend the championship game in Des Moines but was kept apprised of the progress. When hearing that my grandson, Brett Givens, who pitched for Lisbon, hit three batters in the first inning, it raised a question mark for me. Is the Newman coach teaching his players to get hit by pitches? My grandson does not throw exceptionally fast but is very accurate, can spot his pitches very well and did not hit another batter all year in over 15 games pitched.
While looking at Iowa high school baseball statistics, I noticed that Newman pitches were hit by pitches 106 times and that no other team in all of Iowa was hit 100 times. I wonder if Newman would have won as many games if it hadn't been "lucky" enough to for the players to get hit by pitches at possibly exact opportune times.
One wonders if this is really luck or a set pattern by a super egotistical coach who wants to win at any and all costs? If so, I hope there's not a "slip up" one of these years and one of his players gets seriously injured. Also, I wonder if the Iowa High School Athletic Association should initiate an investigation, and could a reprimand, suspension or worse be in order?
James Givens, Rio Hondo, Texas
Letter: Library board won't compromise
Update on genealogy library (GL) eviction: Thirty-five supporters attended the library board meeting on Aug. 21. Twelve or more spoke 75 minutes on the importance of keeping the GL intact in its present location in the MCPL, plus we'd gathered 725 signatures on a petition. The board tabled it, as three members were absent. Two members stated they did not see the necessity of voting on this matter, as they had already voted on it. (May 5, voted to evict the GL). They approved an extension until Sept. 30, but told us to continue looking for alternate space.
City Council wants the two groups to reach a compromise. The Library Board proposes: 1) NCIGS turn ownership of our collection over to the MCPL. 2) The collection would be moved to another area. (Library director stated in July they only had room for 500 of our 5000 items.) 3) Our members can apply to become volunteers to conduct genealogy searches. (Impossible with 90 percent of the collection missing.) NCIGS Board learned of this proposal the night before the meeting. It was never formally sent. The "stinger" is the room is to become a meeting room with a fee. That is more important than a genealogy library?
NCIGS proposes: 1) GL be left as is, but renamed the Genealogy and History Center and operated by NCIGS. (MCPL is almost totally lacking in history resources, which the GL has); 2) NCIGS will pay $1,200 a year (FY2018 the library received $1,315 for all rented rooms). The Globe Gazette Editorial Board stated NCIGS should not have free space. We were never asked to pay anything.
Now, who has been willing to compromise? We need the public to speak up for us. Please contact your city councilman. Thanks for your support.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Reynolds identifies with farmers
Gov. Reynolds understands Iowa farmers. She has signed into law affordable health care for farmers, testifying to the EPA in favor of Iowa's biofuel industry, and pressing President Trump's administration to support ethanol production and expand markets for Iowa farmers among this growing trade war.
Fred Hubbell's criticism of Gov. Reynolds as "nothing more than politics" shows an extreme negligence of the farming community.
This November, I am supporting our Governor, Kim Reynolds.
Nancy Rockman, Mason City
Letter: Appreciate work by genealogy volunteers
I've been saddened to read about the Mason City Public Library's threat of removing the genealogical collection from the building. The collection represents unknown long hours, days and years of hard work done by dedicated volunteers to preserve such important history for future generations.
Many people do not become interested in researching their family lineage until mid-life when they have more time and motivation to do the research. Libraries are the logical places for people to seek such help, as I did when finding our family's past.
I have used the MCPL, Forest City Public Library, St. Olaf College library and archives, plus many other resources in the past. I also used the local newspaper archives to obtain obituaries that were put on index cards in both the Lake Mills and Forest City libraries. This information has helped many people, locally and out-of-state, to flush out family ancestors. It has been exciting to connect descendants to early ancestors who were early residents of my hometown of Lake Mills.
A town's genealogical collections should be considered a "real gem" in the library collection, with those using it appreciating the volunteers' service of love by the preservation of the town/community's history for future generations.
Elaine Bergan, Northwood
Letter: Candidates must address climate change
Of all the issues being discussed and debated in the run up to mid-term elections, it is quite disheartening that global warming and climate change are hardly mentioned at all.
Tariffs and immigration reform are, of course, pressing issues — they have an impact on our daily lives, and should be addressed. But is there anything more urgent than working together to find ways to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and at least attempt to mitigate the catastrophic effects of global warming, such as melting polar ice, rising sea levels, and drought? Aren’t we already seeing some of these effects in extreme weather conditions, wildfires, and massively destructive hurricanes?
I am encouraged by the efforts of people like Don Hofstrand, providing reliable information about the causes and effects of global warming, and by groups such as the Citizens Climate Lobby, organizing ordinary citizens, and helping us use the power of our voice and our vote to demand concrete actions by those we have elected to represent us at all levels of government.
Whether it is at a political rally or town hall meeting or just in conversation at the coffee shop, we should keep this issue out front. It should not be said by our children or by future generations that we were bystanders or silent witnesses to one of the most catastrophic disasters facing humankind. Please call, write, email, or speak directly to those we have elected to represent our voice, and to those who are seeking your vote, and let them know how important this issue to you.
Paul Collier, Mason City
Letter: Materials belong at the library
I am deeply disappointed and dismayed that the Mason City Public Library Board and Director Mary Markwalter are demanding that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society vacate the library's Genealogy Room, which houses over 5,000 historical reference materials relating to genealogy. While some of the items can be found online, many others are accessible only in print.
According to my (print) Webster's dictionary, a library is "a place where literary and artistic materials such as books, periodicals, newspapers, pamphlets, prints, records, and tapes are kept for reading, reference, or lending." Furthermore, the collection is a natural extension of the library's historical archives; both may be referenced by the same users. Properly promoted, the two sections can enhance the library's fine reputation.
In addition to personal interest, genealogy is a topic often assigned to students from elementary level through post-high school. Social studies and history teachers and their students often visit the collection.
NCIGS is a nonprofit organization maintained by volunteers who also staff the genealogy room during daytime library hours. Any proposed move is expensive beyond our means, in large part because any area housing the collection must be climate-controlled to prevent damage to valuable documents by heat, cold and humidity. The purchase or rent and remodeling of suitable quarters is vastly beyond the means of NCIGS.
To date, no other potential use of the space has been divulged.
Please join teachers, NCIGS and other interested citizens in preserving this valuable library of materials by attending the Mason City Council meeting at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 21. The library board meets at 4:15 p.m. the same day in the second floor of the board room.
Doris Smith, Mason City
Letter: Library needs genealogy club
According to USA Today, genealogy is currently the second most popular hobby in the U.S.
Despite online resources, family history isn’t becoming an armchair-only hobby. A few years ago, University of Illinois Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism professor Carla Santos described “genealogy tourists” as a fast-growing segment of leisure travelers. They’re tourists in search of their own stories. After interviewing visitors to the Genealogy Center at the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Santos described them as searching for a “generational sense of the self.”
“It starts at home, where they learn everything they can online. Then they want the tactile experience of research, of going to the library to learn more.”
“This form of tourism is growing rapidly and is increasingly popular as western societies age,” Dallen Timothy, professor at Arizona State University and editor of the Journal of Heritage Tourism.
During the last major library remodeling, the club and the library worked together, planning club space in the library as part of the library’s long-term plans. Now some club shelving has been removed at the librarian’s instructions causing irreplaceable documents to be stored on the porch of a club member.
Genealogy resources that can’t be found on the internet are a draw to the genealogist. Not all resource material can be digitized; old maps and plat books are valuable for research and information.
The genealogy group depends on membership dues for its finances and doesn’t have funding or cash flow to be able to buy or rent space elsewhere.
Library use is trending down. Libraries need to support resources that bring people in the door to justify their existence.
Library board: reverse the eviction order and support this valuable part of your community.
Patty Paul, Boerne, Texas
Letter: Act now to protect republic
I am worried for our country. If we do not get off our backside and stop this violent movement that is happening now by the far left and right, we will lose our republic and Constitution to socialism. We have a right to march and protest peacefully, but we do not have a right to violence.
As a citizen of the United States, we not only have a right to vote, but it is our duty to vote. We need to elect people who will represent us and enforce all our laws equally without a two-tier system.
In Webster's dictionary, look up the definition of a republic and socialism. Then decide which we want to be governed by. Let us act now, so we don't have to react later.
Alyce Hugeback, Hampton
Letter: Collection headed to the dump?
On June 1, Mark Suby, president of North Central Iowa Genealogical Society, received a letter from librarian Mary Markwalter. It stated: “Due to the changing space utilization needs of the library, the Mason City Public Library Board of Directors is requesting that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society remove the items owned by the Society and its members and vacate the space currently used by the Society at the Mason City Public Library by August 1, 2018.”
The Genealogy Library has been located in the MCPL since 1979. The first few years, they operated out of a few boxes but over the years through grants and donations, the library has grown to over 5,000 books. There are books on immigrants from European countries, passenger lists from ships, several sections on Iowa with histories of towns, cemetery records, church histories, plat maps, family histories, census, military records, and vital records from 1855-1940, and so much more.
It is considered a top-notch genealogy library, a place where not only citizens of Mason City and Cerro Gordo County come for information about their ancestors, but also serves the surrounding eight counties, plus people all across the country who stop in or write us.
There is renewed interest in genealogy with DNA testing and the TV show, plus, Rod Hungerford is in the library most weekdays to assist people who don’t have a computer or have no idea how to use one to find genealogy records.
So what is to happen to this valuable genealogical collection we have amassed? NCIGS is a small organization and doesn’t have money to pay rent, so will it end up in the city dump? We need help and input from the citizens of Mason City.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Keep collection at the library
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed “eviction” of the Genealogy Room at the Mason City Public Library. This Genealogy Room holds an extensive collection of genealogical materials including local, regional and state family histories, cemetery records and other related items of interest – gathered over many years. These materials are of great interest to people in the North Iowa and southern Minnesota areas. This collection is one of the most complete and most sophisticated of its type in Iowa and Minnesota. Many volunteers have spent hours collecting and collating these materials and have organized them into albums, journals and displays.
My granddaughter and I have spent hours there obtaining family records. It has been an educational experience for both of us. She, as a young girl, was able to learn of some of her ancestry and to establish a hobby of studying genealogy. I have often thought of how blessed we are to have such a wealth of information close to us in the Mason City Public Library.
It would be a shame, a tragedy to move this extensive collection to another location. Most likely, it would result in it being fragmented and located to multiple locations.
I am hopeful that the Library Board and the City Council will reconsider and give second thought in order to keep this very valuable Mason City resource in its current location.
Judy Evans, Mason City
Letter: Give offenders an either-or option
I see in the paper that due to a shortage of personnel in the military we are now going to allow people in with past drug use and other issues with the law. In the 1950s and '60s similar people were given a choice of prison or military duty when in trouble with the law. Let's save the $200 million the government is now offering in bonuses for new recruits, offer the old either-or choice to offenders, and also take some burden off our prison system.
Robert Freund, Greene
Letter: Trump is worse than expected
Donald Trump called on Attorney General Jeff Sessions, or Mr. Magoo as Trump once called him, to end the special counsel investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, just the latest in a series of actions indicating Trump believes he is above the law.
These actions have not been actions and words that we would see from an innocent man. An innocent person would fully cooperate in every way possible to expedite a conclusion and clear their name and get back to running the country. Trump has shown time and again that he intends to thwart the investigation, even at the risk of triggering a constitutional crisis.
Yet in a recent poll, 37 percent of Americans said Trump was honest and trustworthy. This also tells us that this same 37 percent from the poll are idiots and/or woefully uniformed. I am begging for Mueller to subpoena Trump's income tax returns. The only reason anyone would not release them voluntarily as all previous presidential candidates have since it has been expected over the last 50 years, is obviously because they don't want voters to know what is there. Duh?! Is the audit still ongoing after two years?
For those of us that thought that maybe after elected he would tame down and do a respectable job, you can kiss that thought goodbye. It is much worse than I could have ever imagined. He has embarrassed Americans and insulted our allies over and over and again. He represents the greatest danger this great country has been in for decades. He makes stupid Americans even more stupid! Trump has proven at least one thing: the Constitution may have given the president too much power, at least in Trump's case.
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Sanitizing the nominee's record
After the filing of the Freedom of Information Act request by the Democratic senators was denied, I became concerned about the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.
Why are the Republican senators sanitizing Kavanaugh’s government records during his service under President George W. Bush? Is it the possibility that Kavanaugh lied to the Senate prior to his confirmation in 2006? Why not turn over all the records that will show whether Kavanaugh was or was not involved in discussions about Guantamino Bay torture?
Any member of Congress, including Sen. Grassley, should be concerned enough to let the record speak for itself.
Julie Stewart Ziesman, Waukee
Letter: Find a win-win solution with library
There seems to be a great deal of conflict surrounding the genealogy society's use of a room in the Mason City Public Library. The room has been in use for the past 40 years and is lauded as one of the great collections for persons searching for their ancestors. The service is used not only by locals but by many across the state of Iowa and internationally as well. Since the availability of tracing ancestors through DNA, the process has become a phenomenon worldwide.
The service of the society is not only widely known, it has the ability to provide necessary help required by those of us who need help and are not Internet-savvy. Placing this service on the Internet is not a viable solution because the society has the guidance of a valuable person to give help to those of us who need it. Let's face it: I still recall having to leave my comfortable chair to walk across the living room and turn the knob on the television to channels 3, 6 and 10.
I don't understand why this service, which is such a gem and a star in Mason City's history, can be closed without a win-win agreement. The library board meets at the library on Aug. 21 and is open to the public. Please attend to fight to keep this service that Mason City should be proud of.
Nancy Hewett, Mason City
Letter: Appalled by library's decision
I read with a heavy heart Steve Bohnel's article about the Mason City Public Library's decision to force the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society to move out of the public library building. As both a Mason City native and as a genealogist, I am appalled at the library's decision.
Public libraries all across the country -- small and large -- know that family history researchers are among their most important patrons and supporters. Libraries have changed a lot over the past half-century, but one thing remains the same -- it is a place people can go to get help with all kinds of research.
Small nonprofit genealogy societies like NCIGS really have few options. Many small genealogy and family history societies across the Midwest rely on public libraries and historical societies for their physical existence.
Yes, there is a lot on the internet, but family history researchers know that there is no substitute for getting help from local volunteers (and professional librarians) who know the local territory. What better place than a public library?
I am a director of the Minnesota Genealogical Society, a past president of MGS, and a past director of the Association of Professional Genealogists. I graduated from Mason City High School in 1968, and have always thought the Mason City Public Library was one of the best things about Mason City -- a real gem the Mason City should be proud of.
I hope there is a happy ending to this story.
Jay Fonkert, Roseville, Minnesota
Letter: Raising my plunger to 'Urinetown'
Using comedy to present a serious subject is tricky, but the lively choreography and amazing singing talent on stage at Mason City Community Theater carry it off splendidly. The outstanding talent of both new and returning members reminds me that we don't have to travel to a big city for professional live theater; it is right here under our noses. You won't want to miss the youngest members of the cast who don't miss a beat and appear to be having the time of their lives.
So get on over to Mason City Community Theater for the remaining shows Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights at 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., and better bring a little extra change in case you need to to use "the facilities." Just kidding!
However, our donations to One Iowa North Scholarship Fund are welcome and the tips on conserving water that are posted on the walls remind us of what not to take for granted.
Beverly Butler, Mason City
Letter: Local control needed for decisions on new hog confinements
Factory farms are detrimental to public health. They contribute to hazardous water conditions where people and animals can get sick by drinking or even touching water. It makes a person think, why are so many confinements going up?
Part of the reason is because counties and local folks have no say in the construction of factory farms. Even if a community opposes them due to environmental, health or other reasons, the DNR gets the final say -- and they almost always get rubber stamped.
We need local control in every county so the people can decide what they want.
Thankfully, more people and their county supervisors are saying enough is enough! Twenty-two counties have passed resolutions or written letters requesting action from the Legislature. They are nonbinding but sent a clear message to the Statehouse that people on the ground want more protections from factory farms. Has your county taken action?
Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement is listening to people who want change. No more factory farms until we have local control and fewer than 100 impaired water bodies in Iowa.
Shannon Walker, Clarion
Letter: Confident in Timely Mission
As a past member of the Board of Directors and past employee of Timely Mission Nursing Home, I was sadden by the death of Virginia Olthoff and the mistakes that may have been made. However, it should also be noted that Timely Mission has a long history of treating residents with respect and dignity.
While no nursing home is perfect, I know that the staff and board of Timely Mission care deeply for the residents they serve. The people of Buffalo Center and surrounding communities have been very fortunate to have this facility in our community for 50 plus years.
Timely Mission has always passed yearly inspections by the State of Iowa with few or any discrepancies. The threat of the state imposing a $30,000 fine will only impose hardship on the current residents and staff. This money would need to be made up by higher fees to residents or lower employee pay. It will do nothing to fix the mistake that was made.
I sincerely believe that while Virginia may have not been treated correctly, everything necessary is being done to make sure it never happens again. The people of Buffalo Center should continue to have full confidence that their loved ones will be treated with the respect and love they so deserve.
Denny Murra, Buffalo Center
BUFFALO CENTER | Virginia Olthoff's daughter says she was a cheerful, kindhearted woman who loved to give others affectionate nicknames like "…
Letter: Pollution blame goes beyond ag
Kristen Arnold recently shared her opinion whose to blame for Iowa's pollution ("Iowa deserves better waterways," published Aug. 1). Her view was corporate farmers. My contention is she needs to evaluate her footprint first.
Does she know the water quality in the Des Moines River before and after it passes thru her community? A farmer is required to test his soils. Does she know what emissions are emitted from her car? A new John Deere tractor's engine actually has cleaner air coming out than going in. Does she know her personal trash probably goes to a landfill which as it decays, if at all, produces methane gas?
We all have ownership in our water issues. Each of us leaves a footprint on the environment each and everyday.
Instead of blaming someone else for the problem, let's focus on creating and solutions.
Brent Fedders, Mason City
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned t…
Letter: Without details, it's easy to forgive
In response to Roxann Newell's letter to the editor ("Touched by aunt's forgiveness," July 25): One should not make a judgement until they are sure they have all the facts.
Before my statement was read, I asked the judge if I could say a few words. She said yes. I told everyone that my statement was not at attack on Codie, but an attack on what Codie did. The Globe did not post that part.
Very few people besides myself and my wife knew what was going on. Many times we shared a meal with Ken, Kathy and Codie, and sometimes just to visit.
Both me and my wife would offer words of encouragement to Codie. Many times we would listen to Ken and Kathy's hopes and frustrations concerning Codie.
As far as Sharon being able to forgive Codie: Sharon did not know Codie personally due to a 35-year rift that Sharon had with Ken. The rift continued up to Ken's death.
It's easy to forgive when you don't know what's going on.
Marv Hackbart, Mason City
Letter: Lessons learned upon return to Mason City
What is wrong with these people? That's what my dear mother would say if she was alive today!
Returning after nearly half a century, I am baffled. So before I got back to whence I came, I'll throw by 50 cents worth in. Mason City's economy is nonexistent. If y'all want to kick-start Cerro Gordo (fat hill), I'd suggest the economic development council hire a jam-up grant writer instead of raising utilities and taxing the middle class for all these past foo-pas your city's council seems to dream up.
That bottle bill is no longer working. Use a closed-down plant or factory and build a state-of-the-art recycling facility. Get some people working and get rid of these flies!
Use that boarded up Marshal and Swift building a nonprofit alternative education program. Teach vocational skills, small-engine repair, welding, plumbing and such. Use Patrick's Place as a culinary school for healthy foods, growing herbs and seasonal veggies.
And now that Younkers is gone, bulldoze Southbridge! Turn it into a park, with food truck vendors and artisans. Have a splash station for summertime fun. Ice it over in the winter for outdoor skating, cocoa shacks and soup stations. The grants are out there.
Lastly and of grave concern is your court system. I cannot call it a judicial one. The plea deals or probation for crimes against the innocent and vulnerable sickens me. And I have no suggestions for that.
Dear Mother would say at times, "You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear!" Needless to say my experience has been enlightening. I've made some awesome friends and learned a lot about this weather!
Jo Parker, Mason City
Letter: Iowa deserves better waterways
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned the water was unsafe due to bacterial contamination. How disappointing for the weekend but how tragic for life!
I'm happy to pay taxes to protect public land, but now we can't even enjoy them. In Iowa where there are seven times more pigs than people, our waterways are under perpetual toxic harm. We know that corporate agriculture is the biggest contributor to water pollution in Iowa.
It doesn't have to be this way. Can you imagine the amazing recreational/tourist possibility of our rivers and public parks if our waters were pollutant-free?
Bottom line: this isn't just our swimming water, irrigating water, life-sustaining water. To get the clean water that Iowa's families deserve, we need polluters to pay to clean up the mess they made.
Kristyn Arnold, Des Moines
Letter: Prosecutors should quit making plea deals with pedophiles
No justice. It was very disheartening and disappointing to see another admitted pedophile to be given a very soft plea deal, as reported in the Globe Gazette on July 17.
This time it's Hancock County County Attorney, Robert Blake Norman, making the shameful deal with Damien Kyhl, who sexually assaulted multiple children over multiple years.
Instead of taking him to trial and being able to take this sexual offender off our streets for decades, it appears he'll be serving what could be five years of a negotiated 10-year sentence.
In no time. this pedophile will be back out and able to reoffend against our children. Also, no justice for the victims. Shameful.
We can only hope that the judge presiding in this case sees this as the dangerous plea deal this and refuses to accept it. It's past time for our county attorneys to quit making these soft plea deals with these dangerous individuals.
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: Trump earned the browbeating
Meghan McCain completely and thoroughly destroyed Cadet Bone Spurs in the eulogy she gave for her father, tearing him limb from limb. I sincerely trust that Ivanka and Jared were forced to skulk their way out of the Washington National Cathedral with their tails between their legs after the verbal browbeating their spoiled-brat, man-child father so richly deserved.
Kevin Young, Sheffield
Letters to the editor: Wrong about the left, tyrants, candidates, health care
Letter: Writer has it wrong about the left
This is in response to John Johnson's letter regarding the left's supposedly hypocritical stance on border control versus gun control.
First off, most people on the left do not have any problem with having a border that is safe and secure, both for the sake of the citizens of the United States as well as the citizens of Mexico. Our issue with border control relates more to how some politicians choose to implement those security measures, and the ideas they have to try and solve the problem (building a wall that will do nothing to actually stop people from coming here, for instance, and which would be a complete waste of money that could be put to much better use).
We also take issue with the nasty rhetoric used by some to describe immigrants. Whether they're here legally or not, they deserve to be treated like human beings. Stereotyping and discriminating against them is not the way to tackle the issue.
Second, an immigrant's legal status does not have any bearing whatsoever on how likely they are to commit murder. That's not how it works. The vast majority of undocumented/illegal immigrants are non-violent. Besides that, plenty of people have been killed by citizens who were either born and raised in this country or came here legally, too.
Finally, John, if you want your view points to be taken seriously and respected, maybe drop the snide tone and dismissal of "lefties", as well as the jabs at Hogg. Just saying.
Angela Niles, Mason City
Letter: Tyrants can't defame the free press
You may remember the Pentagon Papers case. The decision from the Supreme Court shows us why we can't have a delusional tyrant defame the free press. From Justice Black, concurring with Justice Douglas regarding New York Times v. United States:
"In the First Amendment, the Founding Fathers gave the free press the protection it must have to fulfill its essential role in our democracy. The press was to serve the governed, not the governors. The Government's power to censor the press was abolished so that the press would remain forever free to censure the Government. The press was protected so that it could bare the secrets of government and inform the people.
"Only a free and unrestrained press can effectively expose deception in government. And paramount among the responsibilities of a free press is the duty to prevent any part of the government from deceiving the people and sending them off to distant lands to die of foreign fevers and foreign shot and shell.
"In my view, far from deserving condemnation for their courageous reporting, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and other newspapers should be commended for serving the purpose that the Founding Fathers saw so clearly. In revealing the workings of government that led to the Vietnam war, the newspapers nobly did precisely that which the Founders hoped and trusted they would do."
Paul Barenthin, Northwood
Letter: Albert Lea regains control of health care
It has been over a year since we started our journey to save Albert Lea's health care. We have rallied, lobbied, raised funds, attended countless meetings, written letters, called politicians and visited the state capitol. I and several others even learned how to tweet!
We are fortunate that Save Our Healthcare has the support of both city and county. There are many brilliant, determined and compassionate people working together to accomplish our goal to regain control of our health care.
Have you ever heard the song “Unanswered Prayers?" I believe that we will live to appreciate the turn of events that started a year ago. Let go of the past and look to the future! In the meantime, we still have ER, clinic, same-day surgery, Health Reach, and cancer center. Mayo will provide surgery here until 2019 and baby delivery until 2020. Soon Mayo will add inpatient behavioral health to treat the mentally ill (a disease like cancer or diabetes; with proper care, there is much hope.)
We are now in the first phase with the consulting firm that will guide us in restoring our lost services. We have had many calls from potential providers that are interested in our endeavor. They recognize that at the intersection of two interstates lies a beautiful city with caring residents, an historic downtown, vibrant businesses and thriving education institutions. They see a Blue Zone community with walking trails, bike trails, parks, gorgeous lakes, beautiful assisted living centers, and much more.
Remember that you are an important part of our success.
Merilynn Linde, Albert Lea, Minn.
Letter: Kavanaugh is the right pick
The process for confirming President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee has started. As a member of Concerned Women for America of Iowa, I support the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh.
Kavanaugh was confirmed to the D.C. Circuit Court in 2006, and his record is exemplary, supporting the Constitution and its original intent. Not only does his record show that he is a guardian of our liberties as spelled out in the Constitution, he is highly regarded by those with whom he has worked. He has an extensive resume from clerking in the Ninth and Third Circuit Courts to serving as associate counsel and senior associate counsel to President George W. Bush.
Alberto R. Gonzales, former Attorney General of the United States, has remarked that Kavanaugh understands the appropriate role of a judge, that he is disciplined and not arrogant.
Kavanaugh is the kind of individual that I want as a public servant. He has demonstrated that he bases his rulings within the confines of the Constitution and that he is a conservator of liberty. He is highly capable, and I believe he is an excellent nominee for the Supreme Court.
Carol A. Evers, Riverside
Letter: More to the county treasurer race
Oh Skipper, there you go again! While there are certainly twists in this year’s elections, there are many more twists than what's been reported.
When writing about the challenge to incumbent Pat Wright who has been treasurer for eight years, and worked in that office for 40, you stated Natasha Lewerke was fired from the Treasurer’s office “for an error in dispersal of funds involving car dealerships.” The Globe Gazette newspaper reported on June 2016 that the State's audit revealed "based on the DOT's calculation, a dealership and a company performing upfitting avoided paying approximately $283,867.” That’s one heck of an error; it wasn’t a dispersal. I think it was one dealership and one company that turned chassis into saleable trucks; no cars involved. The devil’s in the details.
I’ve got to admit that Natasha is not short on moxie, responding to her termination by suing Cerro Gordo County, Pat Wright as treasurer and Pat Wright personally. The case was dismissed with prejudice. "The lawsuit continued to be drug out [sic] and it was most important for me to be able to run for this position," Lewerke said. "Pursuing my dream to be treasurer is much bigger than any lawsuit." I guess so! Her signs just say “County Treasurer Natasha Lewerke."
Skipper got one part very right, people are not real aware of county elections. Next time you look at one of Natasha’s signs, imagine an uninformed voter seeing it. Doesn’t she appear to be the incumbent? “Re-elect Pat Wright for Treasurer” seems a bit more forthright.
Oh well, this year it seems that the Republicans are abounding in truthiness … like attributing a political portfolio to a first-time candidate because her husband’s brother won a seat. My son-in-law’s a brewer; think Fat Hill will let me run their vats?
Tracy Smith, Clear Lake
Letter: Left can't have it both ways
Hey lefties, question: If gun control is the answer to school shootings, would not border control be the answer to illegals killing American citizens?
And before you whine about politicizing the death of Mollie Tibbetts at the hands of an illegal immigrant, you and your happy cohorts in the media need to look at yourself and your gushing support the likes of David “cameraman” Hogg. Newspapers ran stories covering his nationwide bus tour.
John Johnson, Britt
Letter: Wife-beaters, child-abusers shouldn't have guns
In 2014, the Iowa Gun Owners sent their Federal Candidate survey to then candidate Rod Blum. They asked Rod Blum if he supports repealing the “Lautenberg Domestic Misdemeanor Gun Ban.” The Lautenberg Amendment, named after Sen. Frank Lautenberg, made it illegal for convicted domestic abusers to buy a gun. Domestic abuse victims need such protections because these victims are five times as likely to end up dead if their abuser can access a gun. Sen. Lautenberg argued that wife-beaters and child-abusers should not have guns. But Rod Blum wanted to repeal the Lautenberg Amendment, in essence saying, wife-beaters and child-abusers should have guns.
On this same survey, Blum vowed to oppose any expansion of background checks to purchase a firearm. Those who currently wish to purchase guns or ammo without undergoing a background check can do so through private gun sales or over the internet. Most gun owners and NRA members want universal background checks. They support universal background checks because, as law-abiding citizens, they do not want criminals and people with mental health issues to access guns. But Rod Blum opposed universal background checks.
In April 2017, I spoke to Rep. Blum in person. I wrote down questions about Blum’s survey answers, gave him the paper with my contact info, and asked him to respond to these questions. Blum took the paper, shook my hand, looked me in the eye, and promised to respond to these questions. Rod Blum never contacted me about this or answered my questions. As a concerned citizen, I do not want women and children who have suffered abuse to be shot by their abusers. And as a voter, I do not want a representative who tells me to my face he will answer these questions, and then breaks that promise.
Caleb Gates, Cedar Rapids
Letter: Library conflict is about power
From the time Mary Markwalter took over at the library, she has been trying to get the society out of there. One of the first things she did was to remove about half of their shelving and put it in another room. It was not used for anything, just sitting there empty. But she asserted her authority.
She has not been friendly to the people working in the room (ask some of the genealogy members), being rude and constantly remarking how the society was taking up room, time and library assets while doing nothing meaningful.
Mary enjoys power, and some of us in the society wonder if she really wants (or needs) the room, or whether it's just another attempt to gain total control over her little fiefdom. She runs the building like a prison, which is another example of her desire for power. So I wish everyone would just step back, take a deep breath, and ask the real purpose in this proposed change. Is there a real purpose in this, or just another step in Mary's little game of total control?
Also consider this: once she gets the genealogy department out of there, how long before she sets her sights on the archives room?
The library is a needed, respected and loved part of Mason City. But it should not be run on someone's ego or desire for authority.
Lowell Swenson, Mason City
Letter: Sour grapes over baseball title
Congratulations to Mason City Newman on its baseball championship this summer. However, I wonder if it is somewhat tainted. While attending a Lisbon game this summer, I overheard a fan say, "Everyone hates Newman because they recruit players." It is evidently legal in Iowa but could be considered morally objectionable.
Putting all that aside, here is my main reason for this letter. I was not able to attend the championship game in Des Moines but was kept apprised of the progress. When hearing that my grandson, Brett Givens, who pitched for Lisbon, hit three batters in the first inning, it raised a question mark for me. Is the Newman coach teaching his players to get hit by pitches? My grandson does not throw exceptionally fast but is very accurate, can spot his pitches very well and did not hit another batter all year in over 15 games pitched.
While looking at Iowa high school baseball statistics, I noticed that Newman pitches were hit by pitches 106 times and that no other team in all of Iowa was hit 100 times. I wonder if Newman would have won as many games if it hadn't been "lucky" enough to for the players to get hit by pitches at possibly exact opportune times.
One wonders if this is really luck or a set pattern by a super egotistical coach who wants to win at any and all costs? If so, I hope there's not a "slip up" one of these years and one of his players gets seriously injured. Also, I wonder if the Iowa High School Athletic Association should initiate an investigation, and could a reprimand, suspension or worse be in order?
James Givens, Rio Hondo, Texas
Letter: Library board won't compromise
Update on genealogy library (GL) eviction: Thirty-five supporters attended the library board meeting on Aug. 21. Twelve or more spoke 75 minutes on the importance of keeping the GL intact in its present location in the MCPL, plus we'd gathered 725 signatures on a petition. The board tabled it, as three members were absent. Two members stated they did not see the necessity of voting on this matter, as they had already voted on it. (May 5, voted to evict the GL). They approved an extension until Sept. 30, but told us to continue looking for alternate space.
City Council wants the two groups to reach a compromise. The Library Board proposes: 1) NCIGS turn ownership of our collection over to the MCPL. 2) The collection would be moved to another area. (Library director stated in July they only had room for 500 of our 5000 items.) 3) Our members can apply to become volunteers to conduct genealogy searches. (Impossible with 90 percent of the collection missing.) NCIGS Board learned of this proposal the night before the meeting. It was never formally sent. The "stinger" is the room is to become a meeting room with a fee. That is more important than a genealogy library?
NCIGS proposes: 1) GL be left as is, but renamed the Genealogy and History Center and operated by NCIGS. (MCPL is almost totally lacking in history resources, which the GL has); 2) NCIGS will pay $1,200 a year (FY2018 the library received $1,315 for all rented rooms). The Globe Gazette Editorial Board stated NCIGS should not have free space. We were never asked to pay anything.
Now, who has been willing to compromise? We need the public to speak up for us. Please contact your city councilman. Thanks for your support.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Reynolds identifies with farmers
Gov. Reynolds understands Iowa farmers. She has signed into law affordable health care for farmers, testifying to the EPA in favor of Iowa's biofuel industry, and pressing President Trump's administration to support ethanol production and expand markets for Iowa farmers among this growing trade war.
Fred Hubbell's criticism of Gov. Reynolds as "nothing more than politics" shows an extreme negligence of the farming community.
This November, I am supporting our Governor, Kim Reynolds.
Nancy Rockman, Mason City
Letter: Appreciate work by genealogy volunteers
I've been saddened to read about the Mason City Public Library's threat of removing the genealogical collection from the building. The collection represents unknown long hours, days and years of hard work done by dedicated volunteers to preserve such important history for future generations.
Many people do not become interested in researching their family lineage until mid-life when they have more time and motivation to do the research. Libraries are the logical places for people to seek such help, as I did when finding our family's past.
I have used the MCPL, Forest City Public Library, St. Olaf College library and archives, plus many other resources in the past. I also used the local newspaper archives to obtain obituaries that were put on index cards in both the Lake Mills and Forest City libraries. This information has helped many people, locally and out-of-state, to flush out family ancestors. It has been exciting to connect descendants to early ancestors who were early residents of my hometown of Lake Mills.
A town's genealogical collections should be considered a "real gem" in the library collection, with those using it appreciating the volunteers' service of love by the preservation of the town/community's history for future generations.
Elaine Bergan, Northwood
Letter: Candidates must address climate change
Of all the issues being discussed and debated in the run up to mid-term elections, it is quite disheartening that global warming and climate change are hardly mentioned at all.
Tariffs and immigration reform are, of course, pressing issues — they have an impact on our daily lives, and should be addressed. But is there anything more urgent than working together to find ways to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and at least attempt to mitigate the catastrophic effects of global warming, such as melting polar ice, rising sea levels, and drought? Aren’t we already seeing some of these effects in extreme weather conditions, wildfires, and massively destructive hurricanes?
I am encouraged by the efforts of people like Don Hofstrand, providing reliable information about the causes and effects of global warming, and by groups such as the Citizens Climate Lobby, organizing ordinary citizens, and helping us use the power of our voice and our vote to demand concrete actions by those we have elected to represent us at all levels of government.
Whether it is at a political rally or town hall meeting or just in conversation at the coffee shop, we should keep this issue out front. It should not be said by our children or by future generations that we were bystanders or silent witnesses to one of the most catastrophic disasters facing humankind. Please call, write, email, or speak directly to those we have elected to represent our voice, and to those who are seeking your vote, and let them know how important this issue to you.
Paul Collier, Mason City
Letter: Materials belong at the library
I am deeply disappointed and dismayed that the Mason City Public Library Board and Director Mary Markwalter are demanding that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society vacate the library's Genealogy Room, which houses over 5,000 historical reference materials relating to genealogy. While some of the items can be found online, many others are accessible only in print.
According to my (print) Webster's dictionary, a library is "a place where literary and artistic materials such as books, periodicals, newspapers, pamphlets, prints, records, and tapes are kept for reading, reference, or lending." Furthermore, the collection is a natural extension of the library's historical archives; both may be referenced by the same users. Properly promoted, the two sections can enhance the library's fine reputation.
In addition to personal interest, genealogy is a topic often assigned to students from elementary level through post-high school. Social studies and history teachers and their students often visit the collection.
NCIGS is a nonprofit organization maintained by volunteers who also staff the genealogy room during daytime library hours. Any proposed move is expensive beyond our means, in large part because any area housing the collection must be climate-controlled to prevent damage to valuable documents by heat, cold and humidity. The purchase or rent and remodeling of suitable quarters is vastly beyond the means of NCIGS.
To date, no other potential use of the space has been divulged.
Please join teachers, NCIGS and other interested citizens in preserving this valuable library of materials by attending the Mason City Council meeting at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 21. The library board meets at 4:15 p.m. the same day in the second floor of the board room.
Doris Smith, Mason City
Letter: Library needs genealogy club
According to USA Today, genealogy is currently the second most popular hobby in the U.S.
Despite online resources, family history isn’t becoming an armchair-only hobby. A few years ago, University of Illinois Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism professor Carla Santos described “genealogy tourists” as a fast-growing segment of leisure travelers. They’re tourists in search of their own stories. After interviewing visitors to the Genealogy Center at the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Santos described them as searching for a “generational sense of the self.”
“It starts at home, where they learn everything they can online. Then they want the tactile experience of research, of going to the library to learn more.”
“This form of tourism is growing rapidly and is increasingly popular as western societies age,” Dallen Timothy, professor at Arizona State University and editor of the Journal of Heritage Tourism.
During the last major library remodeling, the club and the library worked together, planning club space in the library as part of the library’s long-term plans. Now some club shelving has been removed at the librarian’s instructions causing irreplaceable documents to be stored on the porch of a club member.
Genealogy resources that can’t be found on the internet are a draw to the genealogist. Not all resource material can be digitized; old maps and plat books are valuable for research and information.
The genealogy group depends on membership dues for its finances and doesn’t have funding or cash flow to be able to buy or rent space elsewhere.
Library use is trending down. Libraries need to support resources that bring people in the door to justify their existence.
Library board: reverse the eviction order and support this valuable part of your community.
Patty Paul, Boerne, Texas
Letter: Act now to protect republic
I am worried for our country. If we do not get off our backside and stop this violent movement that is happening now by the far left and right, we will lose our republic and Constitution to socialism. We have a right to march and protest peacefully, but we do not have a right to violence.
As a citizen of the United States, we not only have a right to vote, but it is our duty to vote. We need to elect people who will represent us and enforce all our laws equally without a two-tier system.
In Webster's dictionary, look up the definition of a republic and socialism. Then decide which we want to be governed by. Let us act now, so we don't have to react later.
Alyce Hugeback, Hampton
Letter: Collection headed to the dump?
On June 1, Mark Suby, president of North Central Iowa Genealogical Society, received a letter from librarian Mary Markwalter. It stated: “Due to the changing space utilization needs of the library, the Mason City Public Library Board of Directors is requesting that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society remove the items owned by the Society and its members and vacate the space currently used by the Society at the Mason City Public Library by August 1, 2018.”
The Genealogy Library has been located in the MCPL since 1979. The first few years, they operated out of a few boxes but over the years through grants and donations, the library has grown to over 5,000 books. There are books on immigrants from European countries, passenger lists from ships, several sections on Iowa with histories of towns, cemetery records, church histories, plat maps, family histories, census, military records, and vital records from 1855-1940, and so much more.
It is considered a top-notch genealogy library, a place where not only citizens of Mason City and Cerro Gordo County come for information about their ancestors, but also serves the surrounding eight counties, plus people all across the country who stop in or write us.
There is renewed interest in genealogy with DNA testing and the TV show, plus, Rod Hungerford is in the library most weekdays to assist people who don’t have a computer or have no idea how to use one to find genealogy records.
So what is to happen to this valuable genealogical collection we have amassed? NCIGS is a small organization and doesn’t have money to pay rent, so will it end up in the city dump? We need help and input from the citizens of Mason City.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Keep collection at the library
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed “eviction” of the Genealogy Room at the Mason City Public Library. This Genealogy Room holds an extensive collection of genealogical materials including local, regional and state family histories, cemetery records and other related items of interest – gathered over many years. These materials are of great interest to people in the North Iowa and southern Minnesota areas. This collection is one of the most complete and most sophisticated of its type in Iowa and Minnesota. Many volunteers have spent hours collecting and collating these materials and have organized them into albums, journals and displays.
My granddaughter and I have spent hours there obtaining family records. It has been an educational experience for both of us. She, as a young girl, was able to learn of some of her ancestry and to establish a hobby of studying genealogy. I have often thought of how blessed we are to have such a wealth of information close to us in the Mason City Public Library.
It would be a shame, a tragedy to move this extensive collection to another location. Most likely, it would result in it being fragmented and located to multiple locations.
I am hopeful that the Library Board and the City Council will reconsider and give second thought in order to keep this very valuable Mason City resource in its current location.
Judy Evans, Mason City
Letter: Give offenders an either-or option
I see in the paper that due to a shortage of personnel in the military we are now going to allow people in with past drug use and other issues with the law. In the 1950s and '60s similar people were given a choice of prison or military duty when in trouble with the law. Let's save the $200 million the government is now offering in bonuses for new recruits, offer the old either-or choice to offenders, and also take some burden off our prison system.
Robert Freund, Greene
Letter: Trump is worse than expected
Donald Trump called on Attorney General Jeff Sessions, or Mr. Magoo as Trump once called him, to end the special counsel investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, just the latest in a series of actions indicating Trump believes he is above the law.
These actions have not been actions and words that we would see from an innocent man. An innocent person would fully cooperate in every way possible to expedite a conclusion and clear their name and get back to running the country. Trump has shown time and again that he intends to thwart the investigation, even at the risk of triggering a constitutional crisis.
Yet in a recent poll, 37 percent of Americans said Trump was honest and trustworthy. This also tells us that this same 37 percent from the poll are idiots and/or woefully uniformed. I am begging for Mueller to subpoena Trump's income tax returns. The only reason anyone would not release them voluntarily as all previous presidential candidates have since it has been expected over the last 50 years, is obviously because they don't want voters to know what is there. Duh?! Is the audit still ongoing after two years?
For those of us that thought that maybe after elected he would tame down and do a respectable job, you can kiss that thought goodbye. It is much worse than I could have ever imagined. He has embarrassed Americans and insulted our allies over and over and again. He represents the greatest danger this great country has been in for decades. He makes stupid Americans even more stupid! Trump has proven at least one thing: the Constitution may have given the president too much power, at least in Trump's case.
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Sanitizing the nominee's record
After the filing of the Freedom of Information Act request by the Democratic senators was denied, I became concerned about the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.
Why are the Republican senators sanitizing Kavanaugh’s government records during his service under President George W. Bush? Is it the possibility that Kavanaugh lied to the Senate prior to his confirmation in 2006? Why not turn over all the records that will show whether Kavanaugh was or was not involved in discussions about Guantamino Bay torture?
Any member of Congress, including Sen. Grassley, should be concerned enough to let the record speak for itself.
Julie Stewart Ziesman, Waukee
Letter: Find a win-win solution with library
There seems to be a great deal of conflict surrounding the genealogy society's use of a room in the Mason City Public Library. The room has been in use for the past 40 years and is lauded as one of the great collections for persons searching for their ancestors. The service is used not only by locals but by many across the state of Iowa and internationally as well. Since the availability of tracing ancestors through DNA, the process has become a phenomenon worldwide.
The service of the society is not only widely known, it has the ability to provide necessary help required by those of us who need help and are not Internet-savvy. Placing this service on the Internet is not a viable solution because the society has the guidance of a valuable person to give help to those of us who need it. Let's face it: I still recall having to leave my comfortable chair to walk across the living room and turn the knob on the television to channels 3, 6 and 10.
I don't understand why this service, which is such a gem and a star in Mason City's history, can be closed without a win-win agreement. The library board meets at the library on Aug. 21 and is open to the public. Please attend to fight to keep this service that Mason City should be proud of.
Nancy Hewett, Mason City
Letter: Appalled by library's decision
I read with a heavy heart Steve Bohnel's article about the Mason City Public Library's decision to force the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society to move out of the public library building. As both a Mason City native and as a genealogist, I am appalled at the library's decision.
Public libraries all across the country -- small and large -- know that family history researchers are among their most important patrons and supporters. Libraries have changed a lot over the past half-century, but one thing remains the same -- it is a place people can go to get help with all kinds of research.
Small nonprofit genealogy societies like NCIGS really have few options. Many small genealogy and family history societies across the Midwest rely on public libraries and historical societies for their physical existence.
Yes, there is a lot on the internet, but family history researchers know that there is no substitute for getting help from local volunteers (and professional librarians) who know the local territory. What better place than a public library?
I am a director of the Minnesota Genealogical Society, a past president of MGS, and a past director of the Association of Professional Genealogists. I graduated from Mason City High School in 1968, and have always thought the Mason City Public Library was one of the best things about Mason City -- a real gem the Mason City should be proud of.
I hope there is a happy ending to this story.
Jay Fonkert, Roseville, Minnesota
Letter: Raising my plunger to 'Urinetown'
Using comedy to present a serious subject is tricky, but the lively choreography and amazing singing talent on stage at Mason City Community Theater carry it off splendidly. The outstanding talent of both new and returning members reminds me that we don't have to travel to a big city for professional live theater; it is right here under our noses. You won't want to miss the youngest members of the cast who don't miss a beat and appear to be having the time of their lives.
So get on over to Mason City Community Theater for the remaining shows Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights at 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., and better bring a little extra change in case you need to to use "the facilities." Just kidding!
However, our donations to One Iowa North Scholarship Fund are welcome and the tips on conserving water that are posted on the walls remind us of what not to take for granted.
Beverly Butler, Mason City
Letter: Local control needed for decisions on new hog confinements
Factory farms are detrimental to public health. They contribute to hazardous water conditions where people and animals can get sick by drinking or even touching water. It makes a person think, why are so many confinements going up?
Part of the reason is because counties and local folks have no say in the construction of factory farms. Even if a community opposes them due to environmental, health or other reasons, the DNR gets the final say -- and they almost always get rubber stamped.
We need local control in every county so the people can decide what they want.
Thankfully, more people and their county supervisors are saying enough is enough! Twenty-two counties have passed resolutions or written letters requesting action from the Legislature. They are nonbinding but sent a clear message to the Statehouse that people on the ground want more protections from factory farms. Has your county taken action?
Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement is listening to people who want change. No more factory farms until we have local control and fewer than 100 impaired water bodies in Iowa.
Shannon Walker, Clarion
Letter: Confident in Timely Mission
As a past member of the Board of Directors and past employee of Timely Mission Nursing Home, I was sadden by the death of Virginia Olthoff and the mistakes that may have been made. However, it should also be noted that Timely Mission has a long history of treating residents with respect and dignity.
While no nursing home is perfect, I know that the staff and board of Timely Mission care deeply for the residents they serve. The people of Buffalo Center and surrounding communities have been very fortunate to have this facility in our community for 50 plus years.
Timely Mission has always passed yearly inspections by the State of Iowa with few or any discrepancies. The threat of the state imposing a $30,000 fine will only impose hardship on the current residents and staff. This money would need to be made up by higher fees to residents or lower employee pay. It will do nothing to fix the mistake that was made.
I sincerely believe that while Virginia may have not been treated correctly, everything necessary is being done to make sure it never happens again. The people of Buffalo Center should continue to have full confidence that their loved ones will be treated with the respect and love they so deserve.
Denny Murra, Buffalo Center
BUFFALO CENTER | Virginia Olthoff's daughter says she was a cheerful, kindhearted woman who loved to give others affectionate nicknames like "…
Letter: Pollution blame goes beyond ag
Kristen Arnold recently shared her opinion whose to blame for Iowa's pollution ("Iowa deserves better waterways," published Aug. 1). Her view was corporate farmers. My contention is she needs to evaluate her footprint first.
Does she know the water quality in the Des Moines River before and after it passes thru her community? A farmer is required to test his soils. Does she know what emissions are emitted from her car? A new John Deere tractor's engine actually has cleaner air coming out than going in. Does she know her personal trash probably goes to a landfill which as it decays, if at all, produces methane gas?
We all have ownership in our water issues. Each of us leaves a footprint on the environment each and everyday.
Instead of blaming someone else for the problem, let's focus on creating and solutions.
Brent Fedders, Mason City
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned t…
Letter: Without details, it's easy to forgive
In response to Roxann Newell's letter to the editor ("Touched by aunt's forgiveness," July 25): One should not make a judgement until they are sure they have all the facts.
Before my statement was read, I asked the judge if I could say a few words. She said yes. I told everyone that my statement was not at attack on Codie, but an attack on what Codie did. The Globe did not post that part.
Very few people besides myself and my wife knew what was going on. Many times we shared a meal with Ken, Kathy and Codie, and sometimes just to visit.
Both me and my wife would offer words of encouragement to Codie. Many times we would listen to Ken and Kathy's hopes and frustrations concerning Codie.
As far as Sharon being able to forgive Codie: Sharon did not know Codie personally due to a 35-year rift that Sharon had with Ken. The rift continued up to Ken's death.
It's easy to forgive when you don't know what's going on.
Marv Hackbart, Mason City
Letter: Lessons learned upon return to Mason City
What is wrong with these people? That's what my dear mother would say if she was alive today!
Returning after nearly half a century, I am baffled. So before I got back to whence I came, I'll throw by 50 cents worth in. Mason City's economy is nonexistent. If y'all want to kick-start Cerro Gordo (fat hill), I'd suggest the economic development council hire a jam-up grant writer instead of raising utilities and taxing the middle class for all these past foo-pas your city's council seems to dream up.
That bottle bill is no longer working. Use a closed-down plant or factory and build a state-of-the-art recycling facility. Get some people working and get rid of these flies!
Use that boarded up Marshal and Swift building a nonprofit alternative education program. Teach vocational skills, small-engine repair, welding, plumbing and such. Use Patrick's Place as a culinary school for healthy foods, growing herbs and seasonal veggies.
And now that Younkers is gone, bulldoze Southbridge! Turn it into a park, with food truck vendors and artisans. Have a splash station for summertime fun. Ice it over in the winter for outdoor skating, cocoa shacks and soup stations. The grants are out there.
Lastly and of grave concern is your court system. I cannot call it a judicial one. The plea deals or probation for crimes against the innocent and vulnerable sickens me. And I have no suggestions for that.
Dear Mother would say at times, "You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear!" Needless to say my experience has been enlightening. I've made some awesome friends and learned a lot about this weather!
Jo Parker, Mason City
Letter: Iowa deserves better waterways
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned the water was unsafe due to bacterial contamination. How disappointing for the weekend but how tragic for life!
I'm happy to pay taxes to protect public land, but now we can't even enjoy them. In Iowa where there are seven times more pigs than people, our waterways are under perpetual toxic harm. We know that corporate agriculture is the biggest contributor to water pollution in Iowa.
It doesn't have to be this way. Can you imagine the amazing recreational/tourist possibility of our rivers and public parks if our waters were pollutant-free?
Bottom line: this isn't just our swimming water, irrigating water, life-sustaining water. To get the clean water that Iowa's families deserve, we need polluters to pay to clean up the mess they made.
Kristyn Arnold, Des Moines
Letter: Prosecutors should quit making plea deals with pedophiles
No justice. It was very disheartening and disappointing to see another admitted pedophile to be given a very soft plea deal, as reported in the Globe Gazette on July 17.
This time it's Hancock County County Attorney, Robert Blake Norman, making the shameful deal with Damien Kyhl, who sexually assaulted multiple children over multiple years.
Instead of taking him to trial and being able to take this sexual offender off our streets for decades, it appears he'll be serving what could be five years of a negotiated 10-year sentence.
In no time. this pedophile will be back out and able to reoffend against our children. Also, no justice for the victims. Shameful.
We can only hope that the judge presiding in this case sees this as the dangerous plea deal this and refuses to accept it. It's past time for our county attorneys to quit making these soft plea deals with these dangerous individuals.
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: On grandpa's sour baseball grapes
I am a grandfather of three Newman graduates who played baseball on state championship teams, including this year. Mr. Givens’ ill-informed rant ("Sour grapes over baseball title," Aug. 29) full of personal attacks, skewed facts, and disingenuous congratulations must come from his lack of understanding of the game and a superficial analysis of the statistics, or perhaps just gossip.
Congratulations to Mason City Newman on its baseball championship this summer. However, I wonder if it is somewhat tainted. While attending a …
Mr. Givens character is reflected in his personal attack on Coach Bohl, whom I’m sure he hasn’t met, and the Newman organization. The Newman baseball program enjoys a reputation of excellence in our community, the state of Iowa and beyond. Coach Bohl and his assistants demand and get the best from their players on and off the field. Newman teams offer respect to all but quarters to none.
The assertion that Newman recruits to build a team is refuted by the fact that all but one player on this year’s team started kindergarten at Newman. Which 5-year-old is your next star? A tradition can’t be imported; it must be built. If excellence is the goal, wins and losses take care of themselves.
While I am sure that Brett Givens is a fine young man, being on that large of a stage and facing that storied opponent might rattle a person and affect his accuracy. The hit batters stat only speaks to the quality of opposing pitchers and the toughness of Newman batters. Scoring 477 runs in a year doesn’t suggest luck.
I do observe that Mr. Givens diminishes the achievements of his grandson and the Lisbon team by denigrating the Iowa High School Athletic Association, umpires and opponents. Instead of celebrating their great season, he puts a sad footnote to their accomplishments. There is no disgrace in being beaten by a better team – just in being a poor sport.
Arlin Beemer, Mason City
Letters to the editor: Wrong about the left, tyrants, candidates, health care
Letter: Writer has it wrong about the left
This is in response to John Johnson's letter regarding the left's supposedly hypocritical stance on border control versus gun control.
First off, most people on the left do not have any problem with having a border that is safe and secure, both for the sake of the citizens of the United States as well as the citizens of Mexico. Our issue with border control relates more to how some politicians choose to implement those security measures, and the ideas they have to try and solve the problem (building a wall that will do nothing to actually stop people from coming here, for instance, and which would be a complete waste of money that could be put to much better use).
We also take issue with the nasty rhetoric used by some to describe immigrants. Whether they're here legally or not, they deserve to be treated like human beings. Stereotyping and discriminating against them is not the way to tackle the issue.
Second, an immigrant's legal status does not have any bearing whatsoever on how likely they are to commit murder. That's not how it works. The vast majority of undocumented/illegal immigrants are non-violent. Besides that, plenty of people have been killed by citizens who were either born and raised in this country or came here legally, too.
Finally, John, if you want your view points to be taken seriously and respected, maybe drop the snide tone and dismissal of "lefties", as well as the jabs at Hogg. Just saying.
Angela Niles, Mason City
Letter: Tyrants can't defame the free press
You may remember the Pentagon Papers case. The decision from the Supreme Court shows us why we can't have a delusional tyrant defame the free press. From Justice Black, concurring with Justice Douglas regarding New York Times v. United States:
"In the First Amendment, the Founding Fathers gave the free press the protection it must have to fulfill its essential role in our democracy. The press was to serve the governed, not the governors. The Government's power to censor the press was abolished so that the press would remain forever free to censure the Government. The press was protected so that it could bare the secrets of government and inform the people.
"Only a free and unrestrained press can effectively expose deception in government. And paramount among the responsibilities of a free press is the duty to prevent any part of the government from deceiving the people and sending them off to distant lands to die of foreign fevers and foreign shot and shell.
"In my view, far from deserving condemnation for their courageous reporting, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and other newspapers should be commended for serving the purpose that the Founding Fathers saw so clearly. In revealing the workings of government that led to the Vietnam war, the newspapers nobly did precisely that which the Founders hoped and trusted they would do."
Paul Barenthin, Northwood
Letter: Albert Lea regains control of health care
It has been over a year since we started our journey to save Albert Lea's health care. We have rallied, lobbied, raised funds, attended countless meetings, written letters, called politicians and visited the state capitol. I and several others even learned how to tweet!
We are fortunate that Save Our Healthcare has the support of both city and county. There are many brilliant, determined and compassionate people working together to accomplish our goal to regain control of our health care.
Have you ever heard the song “Unanswered Prayers?" I believe that we will live to appreciate the turn of events that started a year ago. Let go of the past and look to the future! In the meantime, we still have ER, clinic, same-day surgery, Health Reach, and cancer center. Mayo will provide surgery here until 2019 and baby delivery until 2020. Soon Mayo will add inpatient behavioral health to treat the mentally ill (a disease like cancer or diabetes; with proper care, there is much hope.)
We are now in the first phase with the consulting firm that will guide us in restoring our lost services. We have had many calls from potential providers that are interested in our endeavor. They recognize that at the intersection of two interstates lies a beautiful city with caring residents, an historic downtown, vibrant businesses and thriving education institutions. They see a Blue Zone community with walking trails, bike trails, parks, gorgeous lakes, beautiful assisted living centers, and much more.
Remember that you are an important part of our success.
Merilynn Linde, Albert Lea, Minn.
Letter: Kavanaugh is the right pick
The process for confirming President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee has started. As a member of Concerned Women for America of Iowa, I support the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh.
Kavanaugh was confirmed to the D.C. Circuit Court in 2006, and his record is exemplary, supporting the Constitution and its original intent. Not only does his record show that he is a guardian of our liberties as spelled out in the Constitution, he is highly regarded by those with whom he has worked. He has an extensive resume from clerking in the Ninth and Third Circuit Courts to serving as associate counsel and senior associate counsel to President George W. Bush.
Alberto R. Gonzales, former Attorney General of the United States, has remarked that Kavanaugh understands the appropriate role of a judge, that he is disciplined and not arrogant.
Kavanaugh is the kind of individual that I want as a public servant. He has demonstrated that he bases his rulings within the confines of the Constitution and that he is a conservator of liberty. He is highly capable, and I believe he is an excellent nominee for the Supreme Court.
Carol A. Evers, Riverside
Letter: More to the county treasurer race
Oh Skipper, there you go again! While there are certainly twists in this year’s elections, there are many more twists than what's been reported.
When writing about the challenge to incumbent Pat Wright who has been treasurer for eight years, and worked in that office for 40, you stated Natasha Lewerke was fired from the Treasurer’s office “for an error in dispersal of funds involving car dealerships.” The Globe Gazette newspaper reported on June 2016 that the State's audit revealed "based on the DOT's calculation, a dealership and a company performing upfitting avoided paying approximately $283,867.” That’s one heck of an error; it wasn’t a dispersal. I think it was one dealership and one company that turned chassis into saleable trucks; no cars involved. The devil’s in the details.
I’ve got to admit that Natasha is not short on moxie, responding to her termination by suing Cerro Gordo County, Pat Wright as treasurer and Pat Wright personally. The case was dismissed with prejudice. "The lawsuit continued to be drug out [sic] and it was most important for me to be able to run for this position," Lewerke said. "Pursuing my dream to be treasurer is much bigger than any lawsuit." I guess so! Her signs just say “County Treasurer Natasha Lewerke."
Skipper got one part very right, people are not real aware of county elections. Next time you look at one of Natasha’s signs, imagine an uninformed voter seeing it. Doesn’t she appear to be the incumbent? “Re-elect Pat Wright for Treasurer” seems a bit more forthright.
Oh well, this year it seems that the Republicans are abounding in truthiness … like attributing a political portfolio to a first-time candidate because her husband’s brother won a seat. My son-in-law’s a brewer; think Fat Hill will let me run their vats?
Tracy Smith, Clear Lake
Letter: Left can't have it both ways
Hey lefties, question: If gun control is the answer to school shootings, would not border control be the answer to illegals killing American citizens?
And before you whine about politicizing the death of Mollie Tibbetts at the hands of an illegal immigrant, you and your happy cohorts in the media need to look at yourself and your gushing support the likes of David “cameraman” Hogg. Newspapers ran stories covering his nationwide bus tour.
John Johnson, Britt
Letter: Wife-beaters, child-abusers shouldn't have guns
In 2014, the Iowa Gun Owners sent their Federal Candidate survey to then candidate Rod Blum. They asked Rod Blum if he supports repealing the “Lautenberg Domestic Misdemeanor Gun Ban.” The Lautenberg Amendment, named after Sen. Frank Lautenberg, made it illegal for convicted domestic abusers to buy a gun. Domestic abuse victims need such protections because these victims are five times as likely to end up dead if their abuser can access a gun. Sen. Lautenberg argued that wife-beaters and child-abusers should not have guns. But Rod Blum wanted to repeal the Lautenberg Amendment, in essence saying, wife-beaters and child-abusers should have guns.
On this same survey, Blum vowed to oppose any expansion of background checks to purchase a firearm. Those who currently wish to purchase guns or ammo without undergoing a background check can do so through private gun sales or over the internet. Most gun owners and NRA members want universal background checks. They support universal background checks because, as law-abiding citizens, they do not want criminals and people with mental health issues to access guns. But Rod Blum opposed universal background checks.
In April 2017, I spoke to Rep. Blum in person. I wrote down questions about Blum’s survey answers, gave him the paper with my contact info, and asked him to respond to these questions. Blum took the paper, shook my hand, looked me in the eye, and promised to respond to these questions. Rod Blum never contacted me about this or answered my questions. As a concerned citizen, I do not want women and children who have suffered abuse to be shot by their abusers. And as a voter, I do not want a representative who tells me to my face he will answer these questions, and then breaks that promise.
Caleb Gates, Cedar Rapids
Letter: Library conflict is about power
From the time Mary Markwalter took over at the library, she has been trying to get the society out of there. One of the first things she did was to remove about half of their shelving and put it in another room. It was not used for anything, just sitting there empty. But she asserted her authority.
She has not been friendly to the people working in the room (ask some of the genealogy members), being rude and constantly remarking how the society was taking up room, time and library assets while doing nothing meaningful.
Mary enjoys power, and some of us in the society wonder if she really wants (or needs) the room, or whether it's just another attempt to gain total control over her little fiefdom. She runs the building like a prison, which is another example of her desire for power. So I wish everyone would just step back, take a deep breath, and ask the real purpose in this proposed change. Is there a real purpose in this, or just another step in Mary's little game of total control?
Also consider this: once she gets the genealogy department out of there, how long before she sets her sights on the archives room?
The library is a needed, respected and loved part of Mason City. But it should not be run on someone's ego or desire for authority.
Lowell Swenson, Mason City
Letter: Sour grapes over baseball title
Congratulations to Mason City Newman on its baseball championship this summer. However, I wonder if it is somewhat tainted. While attending a Lisbon game this summer, I overheard a fan say, "Everyone hates Newman because they recruit players." It is evidently legal in Iowa but could be considered morally objectionable.
Putting all that aside, here is my main reason for this letter. I was not able to attend the championship game in Des Moines but was kept apprised of the progress. When hearing that my grandson, Brett Givens, who pitched for Lisbon, hit three batters in the first inning, it raised a question mark for me. Is the Newman coach teaching his players to get hit by pitches? My grandson does not throw exceptionally fast but is very accurate, can spot his pitches very well and did not hit another batter all year in over 15 games pitched.
While looking at Iowa high school baseball statistics, I noticed that Newman pitches were hit by pitches 106 times and that no other team in all of Iowa was hit 100 times. I wonder if Newman would have won as many games if it hadn't been "lucky" enough to for the players to get hit by pitches at possibly exact opportune times.
One wonders if this is really luck or a set pattern by a super egotistical coach who wants to win at any and all costs? If so, I hope there's not a "slip up" one of these years and one of his players gets seriously injured. Also, I wonder if the Iowa High School Athletic Association should initiate an investigation, and could a reprimand, suspension or worse be in order?
James Givens, Rio Hondo, Texas
Letter: Library board won't compromise
Update on genealogy library (GL) eviction: Thirty-five supporters attended the library board meeting on Aug. 21. Twelve or more spoke 75 minutes on the importance of keeping the GL intact in its present location in the MCPL, plus we'd gathered 725 signatures on a petition. The board tabled it, as three members were absent. Two members stated they did not see the necessity of voting on this matter, as they had already voted on it. (May 5, voted to evict the GL). They approved an extension until Sept. 30, but told us to continue looking for alternate space.
City Council wants the two groups to reach a compromise. The Library Board proposes: 1) NCIGS turn ownership of our collection over to the MCPL. 2) The collection would be moved to another area. (Library director stated in July they only had room for 500 of our 5000 items.) 3) Our members can apply to become volunteers to conduct genealogy searches. (Impossible with 90 percent of the collection missing.) NCIGS Board learned of this proposal the night before the meeting. It was never formally sent. The "stinger" is the room is to become a meeting room with a fee. That is more important than a genealogy library?
NCIGS proposes: 1) GL be left as is, but renamed the Genealogy and History Center and operated by NCIGS. (MCPL is almost totally lacking in history resources, which the GL has); 2) NCIGS will pay $1,200 a year (FY2018 the library received $1,315 for all rented rooms). The Globe Gazette Editorial Board stated NCIGS should not have free space. We were never asked to pay anything.
Now, who has been willing to compromise? We need the public to speak up for us. Please contact your city councilman. Thanks for your support.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Reynolds identifies with farmers
Gov. Reynolds understands Iowa farmers. She has signed into law affordable health care for farmers, testifying to the EPA in favor of Iowa's biofuel industry, and pressing President Trump's administration to support ethanol production and expand markets for Iowa farmers among this growing trade war.
Fred Hubbell's criticism of Gov. Reynolds as "nothing more than politics" shows an extreme negligence of the farming community.
This November, I am supporting our Governor, Kim Reynolds.
Nancy Rockman, Mason City
Letter: Appreciate work by genealogy volunteers
I've been saddened to read about the Mason City Public Library's threat of removing the genealogical collection from the building. The collection represents unknown long hours, days and years of hard work done by dedicated volunteers to preserve such important history for future generations.
Many people do not become interested in researching their family lineage until mid-life when they have more time and motivation to do the research. Libraries are the logical places for people to seek such help, as I did when finding our family's past.
I have used the MCPL, Forest City Public Library, St. Olaf College library and archives, plus many other resources in the past. I also used the local newspaper archives to obtain obituaries that were put on index cards in both the Lake Mills and Forest City libraries. This information has helped many people, locally and out-of-state, to flush out family ancestors. It has been exciting to connect descendants to early ancestors who were early residents of my hometown of Lake Mills.
A town's genealogical collections should be considered a "real gem" in the library collection, with those using it appreciating the volunteers' service of love by the preservation of the town/community's history for future generations.
Elaine Bergan, Northwood
Letter: Candidates must address climate change
Of all the issues being discussed and debated in the run up to mid-term elections, it is quite disheartening that global warming and climate change are hardly mentioned at all.
Tariffs and immigration reform are, of course, pressing issues — they have an impact on our daily lives, and should be addressed. But is there anything more urgent than working together to find ways to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and at least attempt to mitigate the catastrophic effects of global warming, such as melting polar ice, rising sea levels, and drought? Aren’t we already seeing some of these effects in extreme weather conditions, wildfires, and massively destructive hurricanes?
I am encouraged by the efforts of people like Don Hofstrand, providing reliable information about the causes and effects of global warming, and by groups such as the Citizens Climate Lobby, organizing ordinary citizens, and helping us use the power of our voice and our vote to demand concrete actions by those we have elected to represent us at all levels of government.
Whether it is at a political rally or town hall meeting or just in conversation at the coffee shop, we should keep this issue out front. It should not be said by our children or by future generations that we were bystanders or silent witnesses to one of the most catastrophic disasters facing humankind. Please call, write, email, or speak directly to those we have elected to represent our voice, and to those who are seeking your vote, and let them know how important this issue to you.
Paul Collier, Mason City
Letter: Materials belong at the library
I am deeply disappointed and dismayed that the Mason City Public Library Board and Director Mary Markwalter are demanding that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society vacate the library's Genealogy Room, which houses over 5,000 historical reference materials relating to genealogy. While some of the items can be found online, many others are accessible only in print.
According to my (print) Webster's dictionary, a library is "a place where literary and artistic materials such as books, periodicals, newspapers, pamphlets, prints, records, and tapes are kept for reading, reference, or lending." Furthermore, the collection is a natural extension of the library's historical archives; both may be referenced by the same users. Properly promoted, the two sections can enhance the library's fine reputation.
In addition to personal interest, genealogy is a topic often assigned to students from elementary level through post-high school. Social studies and history teachers and their students often visit the collection.
NCIGS is a nonprofit organization maintained by volunteers who also staff the genealogy room during daytime library hours. Any proposed move is expensive beyond our means, in large part because any area housing the collection must be climate-controlled to prevent damage to valuable documents by heat, cold and humidity. The purchase or rent and remodeling of suitable quarters is vastly beyond the means of NCIGS.
To date, no other potential use of the space has been divulged.
Please join teachers, NCIGS and other interested citizens in preserving this valuable library of materials by attending the Mason City Council meeting at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 21. The library board meets at 4:15 p.m. the same day in the second floor of the board room.
Doris Smith, Mason City
Letter: Library needs genealogy club
According to USA Today, genealogy is currently the second most popular hobby in the U.S.
Despite online resources, family history isn’t becoming an armchair-only hobby. A few years ago, University of Illinois Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism professor Carla Santos described “genealogy tourists” as a fast-growing segment of leisure travelers. They’re tourists in search of their own stories. After interviewing visitors to the Genealogy Center at the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Santos described them as searching for a “generational sense of the self.”
“It starts at home, where they learn everything they can online. Then they want the tactile experience of research, of going to the library to learn more.”
“This form of tourism is growing rapidly and is increasingly popular as western societies age,” Dallen Timothy, professor at Arizona State University and editor of the Journal of Heritage Tourism.
During the last major library remodeling, the club and the library worked together, planning club space in the library as part of the library’s long-term plans. Now some club shelving has been removed at the librarian’s instructions causing irreplaceable documents to be stored on the porch of a club member.
Genealogy resources that can’t be found on the internet are a draw to the genealogist. Not all resource material can be digitized; old maps and plat books are valuable for research and information.
The genealogy group depends on membership dues for its finances and doesn’t have funding or cash flow to be able to buy or rent space elsewhere.
Library use is trending down. Libraries need to support resources that bring people in the door to justify their existence.
Library board: reverse the eviction order and support this valuable part of your community.
Patty Paul, Boerne, Texas
Letter: Act now to protect republic
I am worried for our country. If we do not get off our backside and stop this violent movement that is happening now by the far left and right, we will lose our republic and Constitution to socialism. We have a right to march and protest peacefully, but we do not have a right to violence.
As a citizen of the United States, we not only have a right to vote, but it is our duty to vote. We need to elect people who will represent us and enforce all our laws equally without a two-tier system.
In Webster's dictionary, look up the definition of a republic and socialism. Then decide which we want to be governed by. Let us act now, so we don't have to react later.
Alyce Hugeback, Hampton
Letter: Collection headed to the dump?
On June 1, Mark Suby, president of North Central Iowa Genealogical Society, received a letter from librarian Mary Markwalter. It stated: “Due to the changing space utilization needs of the library, the Mason City Public Library Board of Directors is requesting that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society remove the items owned by the Society and its members and vacate the space currently used by the Society at the Mason City Public Library by August 1, 2018.”
The Genealogy Library has been located in the MCPL since 1979. The first few years, they operated out of a few boxes but over the years through grants and donations, the library has grown to over 5,000 books. There are books on immigrants from European countries, passenger lists from ships, several sections on Iowa with histories of towns, cemetery records, church histories, plat maps, family histories, census, military records, and vital records from 1855-1940, and so much more.
It is considered a top-notch genealogy library, a place where not only citizens of Mason City and Cerro Gordo County come for information about their ancestors, but also serves the surrounding eight counties, plus people all across the country who stop in or write us.
There is renewed interest in genealogy with DNA testing and the TV show, plus, Rod Hungerford is in the library most weekdays to assist people who don’t have a computer or have no idea how to use one to find genealogy records.
So what is to happen to this valuable genealogical collection we have amassed? NCIGS is a small organization and doesn’t have money to pay rent, so will it end up in the city dump? We need help and input from the citizens of Mason City.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Keep collection at the library
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed “eviction” of the Genealogy Room at the Mason City Public Library. This Genealogy Room holds an extensive collection of genealogical materials including local, regional and state family histories, cemetery records and other related items of interest – gathered over many years. These materials are of great interest to people in the North Iowa and southern Minnesota areas. This collection is one of the most complete and most sophisticated of its type in Iowa and Minnesota. Many volunteers have spent hours collecting and collating these materials and have organized them into albums, journals and displays.
My granddaughter and I have spent hours there obtaining family records. It has been an educational experience for both of us. She, as a young girl, was able to learn of some of her ancestry and to establish a hobby of studying genealogy. I have often thought of how blessed we are to have such a wealth of information close to us in the Mason City Public Library.
It would be a shame, a tragedy to move this extensive collection to another location. Most likely, it would result in it being fragmented and located to multiple locations.
I am hopeful that the Library Board and the City Council will reconsider and give second thought in order to keep this very valuable Mason City resource in its current location.
Judy Evans, Mason City
Letter: Give offenders an either-or option
I see in the paper that due to a shortage of personnel in the military we are now going to allow people in with past drug use and other issues with the law. In the 1950s and '60s similar people were given a choice of prison or military duty when in trouble with the law. Let's save the $200 million the government is now offering in bonuses for new recruits, offer the old either-or choice to offenders, and also take some burden off our prison system.
Robert Freund, Greene
Letter: Trump is worse than expected
Donald Trump called on Attorney General Jeff Sessions, or Mr. Magoo as Trump once called him, to end the special counsel investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, just the latest in a series of actions indicating Trump believes he is above the law.
These actions have not been actions and words that we would see from an innocent man. An innocent person would fully cooperate in every way possible to expedite a conclusion and clear their name and get back to running the country. Trump has shown time and again that he intends to thwart the investigation, even at the risk of triggering a constitutional crisis.
Yet in a recent poll, 37 percent of Americans said Trump was honest and trustworthy. This also tells us that this same 37 percent from the poll are idiots and/or woefully uniformed. I am begging for Mueller to subpoena Trump's income tax returns. The only reason anyone would not release them voluntarily as all previous presidential candidates have since it has been expected over the last 50 years, is obviously because they don't want voters to know what is there. Duh?! Is the audit still ongoing after two years?
For those of us that thought that maybe after elected he would tame down and do a respectable job, you can kiss that thought goodbye. It is much worse than I could have ever imagined. He has embarrassed Americans and insulted our allies over and over and again. He represents the greatest danger this great country has been in for decades. He makes stupid Americans even more stupid! Trump has proven at least one thing: the Constitution may have given the president too much power, at least in Trump's case.
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Sanitizing the nominee's record
After the filing of the Freedom of Information Act request by the Democratic senators was denied, I became concerned about the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.
Why are the Republican senators sanitizing Kavanaugh’s government records during his service under President George W. Bush? Is it the possibility that Kavanaugh lied to the Senate prior to his confirmation in 2006? Why not turn over all the records that will show whether Kavanaugh was or was not involved in discussions about Guantamino Bay torture?
Any member of Congress, including Sen. Grassley, should be concerned enough to let the record speak for itself.
Julie Stewart Ziesman, Waukee
Letter: Find a win-win solution with library
There seems to be a great deal of conflict surrounding the genealogy society's use of a room in the Mason City Public Library. The room has been in use for the past 40 years and is lauded as one of the great collections for persons searching for their ancestors. The service is used not only by locals but by many across the state of Iowa and internationally as well. Since the availability of tracing ancestors through DNA, the process has become a phenomenon worldwide.
The service of the society is not only widely known, it has the ability to provide necessary help required by those of us who need help and are not Internet-savvy. Placing this service on the Internet is not a viable solution because the society has the guidance of a valuable person to give help to those of us who need it. Let's face it: I still recall having to leave my comfortable chair to walk across the living room and turn the knob on the television to channels 3, 6 and 10.
I don't understand why this service, which is such a gem and a star in Mason City's history, can be closed without a win-win agreement. The library board meets at the library on Aug. 21 and is open to the public. Please attend to fight to keep this service that Mason City should be proud of.
Nancy Hewett, Mason City
Letter: Appalled by library's decision
I read with a heavy heart Steve Bohnel's article about the Mason City Public Library's decision to force the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society to move out of the public library building. As both a Mason City native and as a genealogist, I am appalled at the library's decision.
Public libraries all across the country -- small and large -- know that family history researchers are among their most important patrons and supporters. Libraries have changed a lot over the past half-century, but one thing remains the same -- it is a place people can go to get help with all kinds of research.
Small nonprofit genealogy societies like NCIGS really have few options. Many small genealogy and family history societies across the Midwest rely on public libraries and historical societies for their physical existence.
Yes, there is a lot on the internet, but family history researchers know that there is no substitute for getting help from local volunteers (and professional librarians) who know the local territory. What better place than a public library?
I am a director of the Minnesota Genealogical Society, a past president of MGS, and a past director of the Association of Professional Genealogists. I graduated from Mason City High School in 1968, and have always thought the Mason City Public Library was one of the best things about Mason City -- a real gem the Mason City should be proud of.
I hope there is a happy ending to this story.
Jay Fonkert, Roseville, Minnesota
Letter: Raising my plunger to 'Urinetown'
Using comedy to present a serious subject is tricky, but the lively choreography and amazing singing talent on stage at Mason City Community Theater carry it off splendidly. The outstanding talent of both new and returning members reminds me that we don't have to travel to a big city for professional live theater; it is right here under our noses. You won't want to miss the youngest members of the cast who don't miss a beat and appear to be having the time of their lives.
So get on over to Mason City Community Theater for the remaining shows Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights at 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., and better bring a little extra change in case you need to to use "the facilities." Just kidding!
However, our donations to One Iowa North Scholarship Fund are welcome and the tips on conserving water that are posted on the walls remind us of what not to take for granted.
Beverly Butler, Mason City
Letter: Local control needed for decisions on new hog confinements
Factory farms are detrimental to public health. They contribute to hazardous water conditions where people and animals can get sick by drinking or even touching water. It makes a person think, why are so many confinements going up?
Part of the reason is because counties and local folks have no say in the construction of factory farms. Even if a community opposes them due to environmental, health or other reasons, the DNR gets the final say -- and they almost always get rubber stamped.
We need local control in every county so the people can decide what they want.
Thankfully, more people and their county supervisors are saying enough is enough! Twenty-two counties have passed resolutions or written letters requesting action from the Legislature. They are nonbinding but sent a clear message to the Statehouse that people on the ground want more protections from factory farms. Has your county taken action?
Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement is listening to people who want change. No more factory farms until we have local control and fewer than 100 impaired water bodies in Iowa.
Shannon Walker, Clarion
Letter: Confident in Timely Mission
As a past member of the Board of Directors and past employee of Timely Mission Nursing Home, I was sadden by the death of Virginia Olthoff and the mistakes that may have been made. However, it should also be noted that Timely Mission has a long history of treating residents with respect and dignity.
While no nursing home is perfect, I know that the staff and board of Timely Mission care deeply for the residents they serve. The people of Buffalo Center and surrounding communities have been very fortunate to have this facility in our community for 50 plus years.
Timely Mission has always passed yearly inspections by the State of Iowa with few or any discrepancies. The threat of the state imposing a $30,000 fine will only impose hardship on the current residents and staff. This money would need to be made up by higher fees to residents or lower employee pay. It will do nothing to fix the mistake that was made.
I sincerely believe that while Virginia may have not been treated correctly, everything necessary is being done to make sure it never happens again. The people of Buffalo Center should continue to have full confidence that their loved ones will be treated with the respect and love they so deserve.
Denny Murra, Buffalo Center
BUFFALO CENTER | Virginia Olthoff's daughter says she was a cheerful, kindhearted woman who loved to give others affectionate nicknames like "…
Letter: Pollution blame goes beyond ag
Kristen Arnold recently shared her opinion whose to blame for Iowa's pollution ("Iowa deserves better waterways," published Aug. 1). Her view was corporate farmers. My contention is she needs to evaluate her footprint first.
Does she know the water quality in the Des Moines River before and after it passes thru her community? A farmer is required to test his soils. Does she know what emissions are emitted from her car? A new John Deere tractor's engine actually has cleaner air coming out than going in. Does she know her personal trash probably goes to a landfill which as it decays, if at all, produces methane gas?
We all have ownership in our water issues. Each of us leaves a footprint on the environment each and everyday.
Instead of blaming someone else for the problem, let's focus on creating and solutions.
Brent Fedders, Mason City
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned t…
Letter: Without details, it's easy to forgive
In response to Roxann Newell's letter to the editor ("Touched by aunt's forgiveness," July 25): One should not make a judgement until they are sure they have all the facts.
Before my statement was read, I asked the judge if I could say a few words. She said yes. I told everyone that my statement was not at attack on Codie, but an attack on what Codie did. The Globe did not post that part.
Very few people besides myself and my wife knew what was going on. Many times we shared a meal with Ken, Kathy and Codie, and sometimes just to visit.
Both me and my wife would offer words of encouragement to Codie. Many times we would listen to Ken and Kathy's hopes and frustrations concerning Codie.
As far as Sharon being able to forgive Codie: Sharon did not know Codie personally due to a 35-year rift that Sharon had with Ken. The rift continued up to Ken's death.
It's easy to forgive when you don't know what's going on.
Marv Hackbart, Mason City
Letter: Lessons learned upon return to Mason City
What is wrong with these people? That's what my dear mother would say if she was alive today!
Returning after nearly half a century, I am baffled. So before I got back to whence I came, I'll throw by 50 cents worth in. Mason City's economy is nonexistent. If y'all want to kick-start Cerro Gordo (fat hill), I'd suggest the economic development council hire a jam-up grant writer instead of raising utilities and taxing the middle class for all these past foo-pas your city's council seems to dream up.
That bottle bill is no longer working. Use a closed-down plant or factory and build a state-of-the-art recycling facility. Get some people working and get rid of these flies!
Use that boarded up Marshal and Swift building a nonprofit alternative education program. Teach vocational skills, small-engine repair, welding, plumbing and such. Use Patrick's Place as a culinary school for healthy foods, growing herbs and seasonal veggies.
And now that Younkers is gone, bulldoze Southbridge! Turn it into a park, with food truck vendors and artisans. Have a splash station for summertime fun. Ice it over in the winter for outdoor skating, cocoa shacks and soup stations. The grants are out there.
Lastly and of grave concern is your court system. I cannot call it a judicial one. The plea deals or probation for crimes against the innocent and vulnerable sickens me. And I have no suggestions for that.
Dear Mother would say at times, "You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear!" Needless to say my experience has been enlightening. I've made some awesome friends and learned a lot about this weather!
Jo Parker, Mason City
Letter: Iowa deserves better waterways
My family went to Pine Lake State Park for a greatly anticipated weekend of camping, swimming and beach picnics. When we arrived, we learned the water was unsafe due to bacterial contamination. How disappointing for the weekend but how tragic for life!
I'm happy to pay taxes to protect public land, but now we can't even enjoy them. In Iowa where there are seven times more pigs than people, our waterways are under perpetual toxic harm. We know that corporate agriculture is the biggest contributor to water pollution in Iowa.
It doesn't have to be this way. Can you imagine the amazing recreational/tourist possibility of our rivers and public parks if our waters were pollutant-free?
Bottom line: this isn't just our swimming water, irrigating water, life-sustaining water. To get the clean water that Iowa's families deserve, we need polluters to pay to clean up the mess they made.
Kristyn Arnold, Des Moines
Letter: Prosecutors should quit making plea deals with pedophiles
No justice. It was very disheartening and disappointing to see another admitted pedophile to be given a very soft plea deal, as reported in the Globe Gazette on July 17.
This time it's Hancock County County Attorney, Robert Blake Norman, making the shameful deal with Damien Kyhl, who sexually assaulted multiple children over multiple years.
Instead of taking him to trial and being able to take this sexual offender off our streets for decades, it appears he'll be serving what could be five years of a negotiated 10-year sentence.
In no time. this pedophile will be back out and able to reoffend against our children. Also, no justice for the victims. Shameful.
We can only hope that the judge presiding in this case sees this as the dangerous plea deal this and refuses to accept it. It's past time for our county attorneys to quit making these soft plea deals with these dangerous individuals.
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: Government's priority is to protect
RE: Letter to the editor "Writer has it wrong about the left," Sept. 2:
We are a country of laws, and protecting our citizens is the No. 1 priority of the federal and state governments, or at least should be. According to our Constitution, it's simple if you're not supposed to be here, you can't hurt somebody here.
There is enough crime by our own citizens we don't need help from illegals. A few weeks back, 380 illegals were detained after crossing the border illegally, and not one of them went to a port of entry and asked for asylum, which by law we have to. But they will also be vetted – why do you think that is?
So here is the point: we have walls all over the world - governments, institutions, private businesses, and homes have walls and they all work quite effectively, not perfect but they definitely serve their purpose. And yes, everybody has rights.
Why does the Left push illegals' rights and then work to diminish mine that are protected by our Constitution?
Terry Morris, Belmond
Letters to the editor: Wrong about the left, tyrants, candidates, health care
Letter: Writer has it wrong about the left
This is in response to John Johnson's letter regarding the left's supposedly hypocritical stance on border control versus gun control.
First off, most people on the left do not have any problem with having a border that is safe and secure, both for the sake of the citizens of the United States as well as the citizens of Mexico. Our issue with border control relates more to how some politicians choose to implement those security measures, and the ideas they have to try and solve the problem (building a wall that will do nothing to actually stop people from coming here, for instance, and which would be a complete waste of money that could be put to much better use).
We also take issue with the nasty rhetoric used by some to describe immigrants. Whether they're here legally or not, they deserve to be treated like human beings. Stereotyping and discriminating against them is not the way to tackle the issue.
Second, an immigrant's legal status does not have any bearing whatsoever on how likely they are to commit murder. That's not how it works. The vast majority of undocumented/illegal immigrants are non-violent. Besides that, plenty of people have been killed by citizens who were either born and raised in this country or came here legally, too.
Finally, John, if you want your view points to be taken seriously and respected, maybe drop the snide tone and dismissal of "lefties", as well as the jabs at Hogg. Just saying.
Angela Niles, Mason City
Letter: Tyrants can't defame the free press
You may remember the Pentagon Papers case. The decision from the Supreme Court shows us why we can't have a delusional tyrant defame the free press. From Justice Black, concurring with Justice Douglas regarding New York Times v. United States:
"In the First Amendment, the Founding Fathers gave the free press the protection it must have to fulfill its essential role in our democracy. The press was to serve the governed, not the governors. The Government's power to censor the press was abolished so that the press would remain forever free to censure the Government. The press was protected so that it could bare the secrets of government and inform the people.
"Only a free and unrestrained press can effectively expose deception in government. And paramount among the responsibilities of a free press is the duty to prevent any part of the government from deceiving the people and sending them off to distant lands to die of foreign fevers and foreign shot and shell.
"In my view, far from deserving condemnation for their courageous reporting, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and other newspapers should be commended for serving the purpose that the Founding Fathers saw so clearly. In revealing the workings of government that led to the Vietnam war, the newspapers nobly did precisely that which the Founders hoped and trusted they would do."
Paul Barenthin, Northwood
Letter: Albert Lea regains control of health care
It has been over a year since we started our journey to save Albert Lea's health care. We have rallied, lobbied, raised funds, attended countless meetings, written letters, called politicians and visited the state capitol. I and several others even learned how to tweet!
We are fortunate that Save Our Healthcare has the support of both city and county. There are many brilliant, determined and compassionate people working together to accomplish our goal to regain control of our health care.
Have you ever heard the song “Unanswered Prayers?" I believe that we will live to appreciate the turn of events that started a year ago. Let go of the past and look to the future! In the meantime, we still have ER, clinic, same-day surgery, Health Reach, and cancer center. Mayo will provide surgery here until 2019 and baby delivery until 2020. Soon Mayo will add inpatient behavioral health to treat the mentally ill (a disease like cancer or diabetes; with proper care, there is much hope.)
We are now in the first phase with the consulting firm that will guide us in restoring our lost services. We have had many calls from potential providers that are interested in our endeavor. They recognize that at the intersection of two interstates lies a beautiful city with caring residents, an historic downtown, vibrant businesses and thriving education institutions. They see a Blue Zone community with walking trails, bike trails, parks, gorgeous lakes, beautiful assisted living centers, and much more.
Remember that you are an important part of our success.
Merilynn Linde, Albert Lea, Minn.
Letter: Kavanaugh is the right pick
The process for confirming President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee has started. As a member of Concerned Women for America of Iowa, I support the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh.
Kavanaugh was confirmed to the D.C. Circuit Court in 2006, and his record is exemplary, supporting the Constitution and its original intent. Not only does his record show that he is a guardian of our liberties as spelled out in the Constitution, he is highly regarded by those with whom he has worked. He has an extensive resume from clerking in the Ninth and Third Circuit Courts to serving as associate counsel and senior associate counsel to President George W. Bush.
Alberto R. Gonzales, former Attorney General of the United States, has remarked that Kavanaugh understands the appropriate role of a judge, that he is disciplined and not arrogant.
Kavanaugh is the kind of individual that I want as a public servant. He has demonstrated that he bases his rulings within the confines of the Constitution and that he is a conservator of liberty. He is highly capable, and I believe he is an excellent nominee for the Supreme Court.
Carol A. Evers, Riverside
Letter: More to the county treasurer race
Oh Skipper, there you go again! While there are certainly twists in this year’s elections, there are many more twists than what's been reported.
When writing about the challenge to incumbent Pat Wright who has been treasurer for eight years, and worked in that office for 40, you stated Natasha Lewerke was fired from the Treasurer’s office “for an error in dispersal of funds involving car dealerships.” The Globe Gazette newspaper reported on June 2016 that the State's audit revealed "based on the DOT's calculation, a dealership and a company performing upfitting avoided paying approximately $283,867.” That’s one heck of an error; it wasn’t a dispersal. I think it was one dealership and one company that turned chassis into saleable trucks; no cars involved. The devil’s in the details.
I’ve got to admit that Natasha is not short on moxie, responding to her termination by suing Cerro Gordo County, Pat Wright as treasurer and Pat Wright personally. The case was dismissed with prejudice. "The lawsuit continued to be drug out [sic] and it was most important for me to be able to run for this position," Lewerke said. "Pursuing my dream to be treasurer is much bigger than any lawsuit." I guess so! Her signs just say “County Treasurer Natasha Lewerke."
Skipper got one part very right, people are not real aware of county elections. Next time you look at one of Natasha’s signs, imagine an uninformed voter seeing it. Doesn’t she appear to be the incumbent? “Re-elect Pat Wright for Treasurer” seems a bit more forthright.
Oh well, this year it seems that the Republicans are abounding in truthiness … like attributing a political portfolio to a first-time candidate because her husband’s brother won a seat. My son-in-law’s a brewer; think Fat Hill will let me run their vats?
Tracy Smith, Clear Lake
Letter: Left can't have it both ways
Hey lefties, question: If gun control is the answer to school shootings, would not border control be the answer to illegals killing American citizens?
And before you whine about politicizing the death of Mollie Tibbetts at the hands of an illegal immigrant, you and your happy cohorts in the media need to look at yourself and your gushing support the likes of David “cameraman” Hogg. Newspapers ran stories covering his nationwide bus tour.
John Johnson, Britt
Letter: Wife-beaters, child-abusers shouldn't have guns
In 2014, the Iowa Gun Owners sent their Federal Candidate survey to then candidate Rod Blum. They asked Rod Blum if he supports repealing the “Lautenberg Domestic Misdemeanor Gun Ban.” The Lautenberg Amendment, named after Sen. Frank Lautenberg, made it illegal for convicted domestic abusers to buy a gun. Domestic abuse victims need such protections because these victims are five times as likely to end up dead if their abuser can access a gun. Sen. Lautenberg argued that wife-beaters and child-abusers should not have guns. But Rod Blum wanted to repeal the Lautenberg Amendment, in essence saying, wife-beaters and child-abusers should have guns.
On this same survey, Blum vowed to oppose any expansion of background checks to purchase a firearm. Those who currently wish to purchase guns or ammo without undergoing a background check can do so through private gun sales or over the internet. Most gun owners and NRA members want universal background checks. They support universal background checks because, as law-abiding citizens, they do not want criminals and people with mental health issues to access guns. But Rod Blum opposed universal background checks.
In April 2017, I spoke to Rep. Blum in person. I wrote down questions about Blum’s survey answers, gave him the paper with my contact info, and asked him to respond to these questions. Blum took the paper, shook my hand, looked me in the eye, and promised to respond to these questions. Rod Blum never contacted me about this or answered my questions. As a concerned citizen, I do not want women and children who have suffered abuse to be shot by their abusers. And as a voter, I do not want a representative who tells me to my face he will answer these questions, and then breaks that promise.
Caleb Gates, Cedar Rapids
Letter: Library conflict is about power
From the time Mary Markwalter took over at the library, she has been trying to get the society out of there. One of the first things she did was to remove about half of their shelving and put it in another room. It was not used for anything, just sitting there empty. But she asserted her authority.
She has not been friendly to the people working in the room (ask some of the genealogy members), being rude and constantly remarking how the society was taking up room, time and library assets while doing nothing meaningful.
Mary enjoys power, and some of us in the society wonder if she really wants (or needs) the room, or whether it's just another attempt to gain total control over her little fiefdom. She runs the building like a prison, which is another example of her desire for power. So I wish everyone would just step back, take a deep breath, and ask the real purpose in this proposed change. Is there a real purpose in this, or just another step in Mary's little game of total control?
Also consider this: once she gets the genealogy department out of there, how long before she sets her sights on the archives room?
The library is a needed, respected and loved part of Mason City. But it should not be run on someone's ego or desire for authority.
Lowell Swenson, Mason City
Letter: Sour grapes over baseball title
Congratulations to Mason City Newman on its baseball championship this summer. However, I wonder if it is somewhat tainted. While attending a Lisbon game this summer, I overheard a fan say, "Everyone hates Newman because they recruit players." It is evidently legal in Iowa but could be considered morally objectionable.
Putting all that aside, here is my main reason for this letter. I was not able to attend the championship game in Des Moines but was kept apprised of the progress. When hearing that my grandson, Brett Givens, who pitched for Lisbon, hit three batters in the first inning, it raised a question mark for me. Is the Newman coach teaching his players to get hit by pitches? My grandson does not throw exceptionally fast but is very accurate, can spot his pitches very well and did not hit another batter all year in over 15 games pitched.
While looking at Iowa high school baseball statistics, I noticed that Newman pitches were hit by pitches 106 times and that no other team in all of Iowa was hit 100 times. I wonder if Newman would have won as many games if it hadn't been "lucky" enough to for the players to get hit by pitches at possibly exact opportune times.
One wonders if this is really luck or a set pattern by a super egotistical coach who wants to win at any and all costs? If so, I hope there's not a "slip up" one of these years and one of his players gets seriously injured. Also, I wonder if the Iowa High School Athletic Association should initiate an investigation, and could a reprimand, suspension or worse be in order?
James Givens, Rio Hondo, Texas
Letter: Library board won't compromise
Update on genealogy library (GL) eviction: Thirty-five supporters attended the library board meeting on Aug. 21. Twelve or more spoke 75 minutes on the importance of keeping the GL intact in its present location in the MCPL, plus we'd gathered 725 signatures on a petition. The board tabled it, as three members were absent. Two members stated they did not see the necessity of voting on this matter, as they had already voted on it. (May 5, voted to evict the GL). They approved an extension until Sept. 30, but told us to continue looking for alternate space.
City Council wants the two groups to reach a compromise. The Library Board proposes: 1) NCIGS turn ownership of our collection over to the MCPL. 2) The collection would be moved to another area. (Library director stated in July they only had room for 500 of our 5000 items.) 3) Our members can apply to become volunteers to conduct genealogy searches. (Impossible with 90 percent of the collection missing.) NCIGS Board learned of this proposal the night before the meeting. It was never formally sent. The "stinger" is the room is to become a meeting room with a fee. That is more important than a genealogy library?
NCIGS proposes: 1) GL be left as is, but renamed the Genealogy and History Center and operated by NCIGS. (MCPL is almost totally lacking in history resources, which the GL has); 2) NCIGS will pay $1,200 a year (FY2018 the library received $1,315 for all rented rooms). The Globe Gazette Editorial Board stated NCIGS should not have free space. We were never asked to pay anything.
Now, who has been willing to compromise? We need the public to speak up for us. Please contact your city councilman. Thanks for your support.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Reynolds identifies with farmers
Gov. Reynolds understands Iowa farmers. She has signed into law affordable health care for farmers, testifying to the EPA in favor of Iowa's biofuel industry, and pressing President Trump's administration to support ethanol production and expand markets for Iowa farmers among this growing trade war.
Fred Hubbell's criticism of Gov. Reynolds as "nothing more than politics" shows an extreme negligence of the farming community.
This November, I am supporting our Governor, Kim Reynolds.
Nancy Rockman, Mason City
Letter: Appreciate work by genealogy volunteers
I've been saddened to read about the Mason City Public Library's threat of removing the genealogical collection from the building. The collection represents unknown long hours, days and years of hard work done by dedicated volunteers to preserve such important history for future generations.
Many people do not become interested in researching their family lineage until mid-life when they have more time and motivation to do the research. Libraries are the logical places for people to seek such help, as I did when finding our family's past.
I have used the MCPL, Forest City Public Library, St. Olaf College library and archives, plus many other resources in the past. I also used the local newspaper archives to obtain obituaries that were put on index cards in both the Lake Mills and Forest City libraries. This information has helped many people, locally and out-of-state, to flush out family ancestors. It has been exciting to connect descendants to early ancestors who were early residents of my hometown of Lake Mills.
A town's genealogical collections should be considered a "real gem" in the library collection, with those using it appreciating the volunteers' service of love by the preservation of the town/community's history for future generations.
Elaine Bergan, Northwood
Letter: Candidates must address climate change
Of all the issues being discussed and debated in the run up to mid-term elections, it is quite disheartening that global warming and climate change are hardly mentioned at all.
Tariffs and immigration reform are, of course, pressing issues — they have an impact on our daily lives, and should be addressed. But is there anything more urgent than working together to find ways to reduce the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and at least attempt to mitigate the catastrophic effects of global warming, such as melting polar ice, rising sea levels, and drought? Aren’t we already seeing some of these effects in extreme weather conditions, wildfires, and massively destructive hurricanes?
I am encouraged by the efforts of people like Don Hofstrand, providing reliable information about the causes and effects of global warming, and by groups such as the Citizens Climate Lobby, organizing ordinary citizens, and helping us use the power of our voice and our vote to demand concrete actions by those we have elected to represent us at all levels of government.
Whether it is at a political rally or town hall meeting or just in conversation at the coffee shop, we should keep this issue out front. It should not be said by our children or by future generations that we were bystanders or silent witnesses to one of the most catastrophic disasters facing humankind. Please call, write, email, or speak directly to those we have elected to represent our voice, and to those who are seeking your vote, and let them know how important this issue to you.
Paul Collier, Mason City
Letter: Materials belong at the library
I am deeply disappointed and dismayed that the Mason City Public Library Board and Director Mary Markwalter are demanding that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society vacate the library's Genealogy Room, which houses over 5,000 historical reference materials relating to genealogy. While some of the items can be found online, many others are accessible only in print.
According to my (print) Webster's dictionary, a library is "a place where literary and artistic materials such as books, periodicals, newspapers, pamphlets, prints, records, and tapes are kept for reading, reference, or lending." Furthermore, the collection is a natural extension of the library's historical archives; both may be referenced by the same users. Properly promoted, the two sections can enhance the library's fine reputation.
In addition to personal interest, genealogy is a topic often assigned to students from elementary level through post-high school. Social studies and history teachers and their students often visit the collection.
NCIGS is a nonprofit organization maintained by volunteers who also staff the genealogy room during daytime library hours. Any proposed move is expensive beyond our means, in large part because any area housing the collection must be climate-controlled to prevent damage to valuable documents by heat, cold and humidity. The purchase or rent and remodeling of suitable quarters is vastly beyond the means of NCIGS.
To date, no other potential use of the space has been divulged.
Please join teachers, NCIGS and other interested citizens in preserving this valuable library of materials by attending the Mason City Council meeting at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 21. The library board meets at 4:15 p.m. the same day in the second floor of the board room.
Doris Smith, Mason City
Letter: Library needs genealogy club
According to USA Today, genealogy is currently the second most popular hobby in the U.S.
Despite online resources, family history isn’t becoming an armchair-only hobby. A few years ago, University of Illinois Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism professor Carla Santos described “genealogy tourists” as a fast-growing segment of leisure travelers. They’re tourists in search of their own stories. After interviewing visitors to the Genealogy Center at the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Santos described them as searching for a “generational sense of the self.”
“It starts at home, where they learn everything they can online. Then they want the tactile experience of research, of going to the library to learn more.”
“This form of tourism is growing rapidly and is increasingly popular as western societies age,” Dallen Timothy, professor at Arizona State University and editor of the Journal of Heritage Tourism.
During the last major library remodeling, the club and the library worked together, planning club space in the library as part of the library’s long-term plans. Now some club shelving has been removed at the librarian’s instructions causing irreplaceable documents to be stored on the porch of a club member.
Genealogy resources that can’t be found on the internet are a draw to the genealogist. Not all resource material can be digitized; old maps and plat books are valuable for research and information.
The genealogy group depends on membership dues for its finances and doesn’t have funding or cash flow to be able to buy or rent space elsewhere.
Library use is trending down. Libraries need to support resources that bring people in the door to justify their existence.
Library board: reverse the eviction order and support this valuable part of your community.
Patty Paul, Boerne, Texas
Letter: Act now to protect republic
I am worried for our country. If we do not get off our backside and stop this violent movement that is happening now by the far left and right, we will lose our republic and Constitution to socialism. We have a right to march and protest peacefully, but we do not have a right to violence.
As a citizen of the United States, we not only have a right to vote, but it is our duty to vote. We need to elect people who will represent us and enforce all our laws equally without a two-tier system.
In Webster's dictionary, look up the definition of a republic and socialism. Then decide which we want to be governed by. Let us act now, so we don't have to react later.
Alyce Hugeback, Hampton
Letter: Collection headed to the dump?
On June 1, Mark Suby, president of North Central Iowa Genealogical Society, received a letter from librarian Mary Markwalter. It stated: “Due to the changing space utilization needs of the library, the Mason City Public Library Board of Directors is requesting that the North Central Iowa Genealogical Society remove the items owned by the Society and its members and vacate the space currently used by the Society at the Mason City Public Library by August 1, 2018.”
The Genealogy Library has been located in the MCPL since 1979. The first few years, they operated out of a few boxes but over the years through grants and donations, the library has grown to over 5,000 books. There are books on immigrants from European countries, passenger lists from ships, several sections on Iowa with histories of towns, cemetery records, church histories, plat maps, family histories, census, military records, and vital records from 1855-1940, and so much more.
It is considered a top-notch genealogy library, a place where not only citizens of Mason City and Cerro Gordo County come for information about their ancestors, but also serves the surrounding eight counties, plus people all across the country who stop in or write us.
There is renewed interest in genealogy with DNA testing and the TV show, plus, Rod Hungerford is in the library most weekdays to assist people who don’t have a computer or have no idea how to use one to find genealogy records.
So what is to happen to this valuable genealogical collection we have amassed? NCIGS is a small organization and doesn’t have money to pay rent, so will it end up in the city dump? We need help and input from the citizens of Mason City.
Carol Tinkey, Mason City
Letter: Keep collection at the library
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed “eviction” of the Genealogy Room at the Mason City Public Library. This Genealogy Room holds an extensive collection of genealogical materials including local, regional and state family histories, cemetery records and other related items of interest – gathered over many years. These materials are of great interest to people in the North Iowa and southern Minnesota areas. This collection is one of the most complete and most sophisticated of its type in Iowa and Minnesota. Many volunteers have spent hours collecting and collating these materials and have organized them into albums, journals and displays.
My granddaughter and I have spent hours there obtaining family records. It has been an educational experience for both of us. She, as a young girl, was able to learn of some of her ancestry and to establish a hobby of studying genealogy. I have often thought of how blessed we are to have such a wealth of information close to us in the Mason City Public Library.
It would be a shame, a tragedy to move this extensive collection to another location. Most likely, it would result in it being fragmented and located to multiple locations.
I am hopeful that the Library Board and the City Council will reconsider and give second thought in order to keep this very valuable Mason City resource in its current location.
Judy Evans, Mason City
Letter: Give offenders an either-or option
I see in the paper that due to a shortage of personnel in the military we are now going to allow people in with past drug use and other issues with the law. In the 1950s and '60s similar people were given a choice of prison or military duty when in trouble with the law. Let's save the $200 million the government is now offering in bonuses for new recruits, offer the old either-or choice to offenders, and also take some burden off our prison system.
Robert Freund, Greene
Letter: Trump is worse than expected
Donald Trump called on Attorney General Jeff Sessions, or Mr. Magoo as Trump once called him, to end the special counsel investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, just the latest in a series of actions indicating Trump believes he is above the law.
These actions have not been actions and words that we would see from an innocent man. An innocent person would fully cooperate in every way possible to expedite a conclusion and clear their name and get back to running the country. Trump has shown time and again that he intends to thwart the investigation, even at the risk of triggering a constitutional crisis.
Yet in a recent poll, 37 percent of Americans said Trump was honest and trustworthy. This also tells us that this same 37 percent from the poll are idiots and/or woefully uniformed. I am begging for Mueller to subpoena Trump's income tax returns. The only reason anyone would not release them voluntarily as all previous presidential candidates have since it has been expected over the last 50 years, is obviously because they don't want voters to know what is there. Duh?! Is the audit still ongoing after two years?
For those of us that thought that maybe after elected he would tame down and do a respectable job, you can kiss that thought goodbye. It is much worse than I could have ever imagined. He has embarrassed Americans and insulted our allies over and over and again. He represents the greatest danger this great country has been in for decades. He makes stupid Americans even more stupid! Trump has proven at least one thing: the Constitution may have given the president too much power, at least in Trump's case.
Steve Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Sanitizing the nominee's record
After the filing of the Freedom of Information Act request by the Democratic senators was denied, I became concerned about the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court.
Why are the Republican senators sanitizing Kavanaugh’s government records during his service under President George W. Bush? Is it the possibility that Kavanaugh lied to the Senate prior to his confirmation in 2006? Why not turn over all the records that will show whether Kavanaugh was or was not involved in discussions about Guantamino Bay torture?
Any member of Congress, including Sen. Grassley, should be concerned enough to let the record speak for itself.
Julie Stewart Ziesman, Waukee
Letter: Find a win-win solution with library
There seems to be a great deal of conflict surrounding the genealogy society's use of a room in the Mason City Public Library. The room has been in use for the past 40 years and is lauded as one of the great collections for persons searching for their ancestors. The service is used not only by locals but by many across the state of Iowa and internationally as well. Since the availability of tracing ancestors through DNA, the process has become a phenomenon worldwide.
The service of the society is not only widely known, it has the ability to provide necessary help required by those of us who need help and are not Internet-savvy. Placing this service on the Internet is not a viable solution because the society has the guidance of a valuable person to give help to those of us who need it. Let's face it: I still recall having to leave my comfortable chair to walk across the living room and turn the knob on the television to channels 3, 6 and 10.
I don't understand why this service, which is such a gem and a star in Mason City's history, can be closed without a win-win agreement. The library board meets at the library on Aug. 21 and is open to the public. Please attend to fight to keep this service that Mason City should be proud of.
Nancy Hewett, Mason City
Letter: Challenge issued to Iowa's farmers
Farmers and agricultural producers, this is a challenge. I challenge you to tell your story.
I challenge you to communicate what we do to put healthy food on the table, to fuel the growing population, and how we clothe the masses.
I challenge you to communicate how one percent of the population of the United States feeds the world.
I challenge you to tell your story on how you're planning on passing down your farm to your kids and how you're going to leave it better than when you had it passed to you.
I challenge you to communicate how you care for your livestock and the commitment you have to raising that animal in a humane manner.
I challenge you to show the world how hard working and how technologically advanced we have become so that we can be efficient enough to feed the world while only just scraping by ourselves.
My challenge to you is a hard one. We have never been under fire the way we have been recently from an uninformed populous. It's not their fault. It's on us. The populations have grown farther and farther away from that connection to the farm.
We have to communicate why we must exist and why that disconnect must be forgiven. We have to continue to innovate, grow, and work harder than we ever have before.
But remember my challenge, we must share our story.
Trae Hestness, Clear Lake
Letter: Prosecutors should quit making plea deals with pedophiles
No justice. It was very disheartening and disappointing to see another admitted pedophile to be given a very soft plea deal, as reported in the Globe Gazette on July 17.
This time it's Hancock County County Attorney, Robert Blake Norman, making the shameful deal with Damien Kyhl, who sexually assaulted multiple children over multiple years.
Instead of taking him to trial and being able to take this sexual offender off our streets for decades, it appears he'll be serving what could be five years of a negotiated 10-year sentence.
In no time. this pedophile will be back out and able to reoffend against our children. Also, no justice for the victims. Shameful.
We can only hope that the judge presiding in this case sees this as the dangerous plea deal this and refuses to accept it. It's past time for our county attorneys to quit making these soft plea deals with these dangerous individuals.
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: Left doesn't believe in justice
I have been through many presidential elections and have never seen anything like this after an election. You don't have to be too smart to see what the Democrats are doing with the nominee for the Supreme Court.
It looks to me like their game plan now is anytime they're afraid they're going to lose something they will find someone to come up and say that person sexually assaulted them 20 or 30 years ago. I always thought in this country you were innocent until proven guilty but not according to those on the left.
They feel it is your job to prove that you're innocent. It's a sad day for this country when politicians can't accept that they lost and try to work together to make this country better.
Why would a liberal senator get a letter about an assault in July and not release it for nearly two months? I'll let you figure out the answer to that.
Ed Buchanan, Clear Lake
Letter: Raising my plunger to 'Urinetown'
Using comedy to present a serious subject is tricky, but the lively choreography and amazing singing talent on stage at Mason City Community Theater carry it off splendidly. The outstanding talent of both new and returning members reminds me that we don't have to travel to a big city for professional live theater; it is right here under our noses. You won't want to miss the youngest members of the cast who don't miss a beat and appear to be having the time of their lives.
So get on over to Mason City Community Theater for the remaining shows Thursday, Friday, Saturday nights at 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m., and better bring a little extra change in case you need to to use "the facilities." Just kidding!
However, our donations to One Iowa North Scholarship Fund are welcome and the tips on conserving water that are posted on the walls remind us of what not to take for granted.
Beverly Butler, Mason City
Letter: True Christians are against abortion
January we commemorate the 45-year anniversary of the passage of Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion in our country. The United States is one of only seven countries in the world with legalized late-term abortions that go as far they do, with Iran and North Korea two others. Great company to be in; very sad.
For the past 45 years over 300,000 innocent pre-born babies are murdered every year in our country. How does this happen with us being a largely Christian country with approximately 75 percent identifying as Christians? As Christians we know and believe human life begins at conception and science has caught up with us. That's why pro-abortionists don't use "a clump of cells" in describing a human fetus any longer, but rather argue it's a women's choice to murder her baby, if she's still carrying it. Very sad.
Back to my question of how do we let this continue? It's because as Christians we're mostly silent on this issue, maybe even complicit. Abortion is a serious sin in all Christian faiths, as a Catholic it's a mortal sin, the most serious of all. Yet it's rarely called out, and when it is it is, many times diluted in a sermon of the "sanctity of all human life," and nobody leaves their mass or church service being any more of an advocate for God's most innocent and vulnerable children than when they came in.
As Christians we all need to be stronger advocates for the pre-born children, and do what we can to help overturn this evil law, if we truly put our Christian faith first in our lives. We also need our Church leaders to be stronger advocates using their influence and reach.
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: Sand is determined for the job
I taught Rob Sand in high school. Not only was he a clever, funny, personable, smart student, he was determined, even as a young adult. My first recollection of Rob’s determination was when he championed the cause of a skate park in Decorah. He worked tirelessly for several years. His goal became reality.
I coached Rob as a student in speech and drama activities. He was a quick study and a fun person to work with. In addition to talent, he also had brains. He was determined to make a difference and leave his mark on Decorah High School. His goal became reality.
As a lawyer working for the Iowa Attorney General’s office, Sand pursued criminals who had been scamming the system, especially the lottery, bringing them to justice and, saving the state millions of dollars. Once again, his goal became reality.
Now, Rob is running for state auditor. Once again, Rob has pursued this office with diligence, just as he has tackled so many other causes in his life. Rob will figure out ways to make the system work better. He’ll doggedly pursue what is right and fair. He has my vote, and I hope he can count on yours. I have no doubt that just as he has achieved so much in the past, his goal will become reality.
Please vote for Rob Sand on Nov. 6. He is a person who will protect our tax dollars and our state.
Susan Cantine-Maxson, Lansing
Letter: Is this the world we want to live in?
With Republicans running our state and federal governments, they say they are working for the betterment of their constituents. Is this really the world we choose to live in?
Where truth and facts don't matter? Take our President, Alex Jones and Fox News conspiracy theories.
Where climate and science deniers are in charge of our environmental safe guards, and they make cuts to the budget of the EPA in spite of the worst natural disasters?
Where clean up of Iowa waterways is paid by the public rather than the abusers, and are still only voluntary?
Where crumbling infrastructure is the norm, yet the wealthy still get their tax cuts?
Where the new strategy for the CFPB is to deter the agency from aggressively pursuing its mission to protect Americans from financial firm rip offs? Equifax can breach our most personal information without penalty.
Where health care is not a right, and budget cuts are made to the safety net for health care for our most vulnerable population (privatized Medicaid)?
Where contraceptive and medical care for women is much less available, abortion is a crime, medical providers can face a potential lawsuit for a lifetime, and social services budgets are cut, thereby not able to appropriately care for our ever increasing number of vulnerable persons?
Where a public school opponent (Betsy Devos) is in charge of our public schools, funding for public education continues to deteriorate and higher education costs skyrocket? And yet our state Legislature still wants to take more money away from public education to give to private, under-regulated, for-profit schools.
Where religious rights trample over human and equal rights?
Where Russian cyber aggression is not acknowledged or attempted to be prevented?
We all need to take a step back, take a deep breath, and reconsider our priorities.
Lissa Holloway, Britt
Letter: Numbers aren't what GOP says
After my last letter in regard to the realism of the tax cuts, someone pointed out to me that the average family income in Mason City was about $50,000 and my example started at $80,000.
So I have revised the income examples: Income at $50,000 and the tax savings is $708. Income at $100,000 and the tax savings is $2,538. Income at $200,000 and the savings is $6,242 or 2.5 times more than $100,000. Income at $400,000 and the tax savings is $43,972, seven times greater than at $200,000. Income of $1.6 million is 32 times the $50,000 income, but the tax cut savings on $1.6 million is $63,401, or 89 times as much.
The truth is in the numbers and not what Trump and the Republicans tell us! We were promised a "huge tax cut for the middle class," and it did not happen! Republicans looted the treasury and passed massive tax cuts for some of the wealthiest Americans and corporations in the world.
Now they are coming back in the name of "deficit reduction" predictably proposing major cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, education and other valuable programs essential to the middle class. This is nothing less than a major transfer of wealth from the middle class to the wealthiest.
In a survey of 42 top economists by the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business, just one thought GOP tax cuts would improve growth. Both the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Tax Policy Center show that for the past 60 years, whenever tax rates were the highest, more jobs were created than when tax rates were lowest.
Quickly on guns and massacres: We will never stop massacres and have sensible and effective gun control until we elect a democratic President and Congress, it's just that simple! Trump must go soon!
Steven Epperly, Mason City
Letter: Bring back Good Friday event
For the past 15 years, my husband and I have had the opportunity to take off from work on Good Friday of Holy Week. We do that so we can partake in the crosswalk through downtown Mason City as a way to remember the last steps Jesus took before being crucified for our transgressions. This year was no different, except for one thing – the event did not happen.
The person who usually organizes this event stepped away, and unfortunately no one from the Ministerial Association took on the task of getting it done or finding persons to do it. Disappointing to say the least. I do hope that prior to Easter and Holy Week of 2019 that this group will decide to organize it once again.
My life would not be the same if I didn't believe in God. Some days are tough, some days are beautiful. God gave us his son Jesus to show us how to live, and through his death he saved me from dying. On the beautiful days, I praise him! On the bad days, I pray to him for help and strength.
Being able to walk a few steps, carrying a portion of the cross, reading some scripture and singing, is at the least one way of showing him I love what he did for me that day. Then the rejoicing of Easter is so grand. He is risen! He is risen indeed!
I hope the members of the Ministerial Association of Mason City will not forget next year and once again have this event available for myself and others who would want to be a part of this cross walk.
Sue Simmons, Mason City
Letter: Democrats weren't partisan, either
My money. If the GOP tax bill, now law, is such a horrible travesty for the middle class and the poor, the Democrats should be filled with uncontrollable excitement because its passage will be political suicide for the Republicans.
The opposite, however, is true. Not a single Democrat voted for the tax bill, and members of the Democratic leadership disparage the legislation at every option. Democrats speak of a partisan bill. They say that we the people are being scammed. Yet they do not acknowledge the partisan Democrat Obamacare bill passed behind closed doors.
Remember Nancy Pelosi's comment that we have to pass the bill to know what's in it? Democrats also mention the new tax law will add $1 trillion of debt. Where were they when President Obama added almost $10 trillion in debt in his eight-year term. That's more than all other presidents combined!
Democrats speak of millions of people losing their health care with the repeal of the the Obamacare mandate. Yet, once again, they fail to mention the millions who lost their health care with passage of Obamacare and were no longer able to keep their plan or doctor, as promised.
And finally, the Democrat chant of "it's a tax cut for the rich", that corporations, billionaires, and millionaires will benefit while half of middle class tax cuts are temporary and will last only until 2027 unless they are extended. Well, if our President wants to give me a tax break for the next 10 years, I'll take it. And I believe most Americans will be happy with that as well.
Pat Ropella, Mason City
Letter: We need more nurses like this
I work at a local hospital and last year I was admitted to my work place as an inpatient. I know quite a few people and have coworkers. I needed to go to Nuclear Medicine for a test. I was in my hospital gown and wheeled to Nuclear Medicine. There was a nurse who just seemed to know I was in distress although I didn't say anything. My biggest fear was my gown would pop open and I would give someone I probably knew "the full moon." The nurse instantly must have known. She said to me, "We are going to give you pants to match your gown."
Today, I saw her again, and her name is Amy Erin. I hope I'm getting that right.
She is intuitive, caring, and must be able to read minds as she certainly knew what I was thinking. The world would be a better if we had more like her. She took an awkward situation and made me laugh, and we all know "laughter is the best medicine."
Sue Stallwood, Mason City
Letter: Writer has it wrong about the left
This is in response to John Johnson's letter regarding the left's supposedly hypocritical stance on border control versus gun control.
First off, most people on the left do not have any problem with having a border that is safe and secure, both for the sake of the citizens of the United States as well as the citizens of Mexico. Our issue with border control relates more to how some politicians choose to implement those security measures, and the ideas they have to try and solve the problem (building a wall that will do nothing to actually stop people from coming here, for instance, and which would be a complete waste of money that could be put to much better use).
We also take issue with the nasty rhetoric used by some to describe immigrants. Whether they're here legally or not, they deserve to be treated like human beings. Stereotyping and discriminating against them is not the way to tackle the issue.
Second, an immigrant's legal status does not have any bearing whatsoever on how likely they are to commit murder. That's not how it works. The vast majority of undocumented/illegal immigrants are non-violent. Besides that, plenty of people have been killed by citizens who were either born and raised in this country or came here legally, too.
Finally, John, if you want your view points to be taken seriously and respected, maybe drop the snide tone and dismissal of "lefties", as well as the jabs at Hogg. Just saying.
Angela Niles, Mason City
Letter: Neither party is making it great
This letter goes out to both Republicans and Democrats:
First off, I am all for making America great again, however, my opinion of how that looks is different than how I feel that either of our parties sees it. I think America would be great again if we attempted to be civilized Americans first. I am not saying that you can't have an affiliation to a certain party, but don't close your mind to all that the other people of another party due to your insecurity that people might see that "they" might have some validity, which then lessens your validity.
How about if we could treat others with a sense of respect instead of being critical, cynical, violent and darn right rude? You want to make America great again? Put your need to be a comedian on hold and speak with others and about others as human beings and not stereo-typed party affiliates. Yes, we can be great again, but it will take the very same thing that we stress to our students in the elementary school system.
When given opportunities to engage with others, first and foremost, take a deep breath. Slow things down. Look at your classmate as a classmate and not a foe. Find a neutral party to work through the issue. Respect their right to have a different opinion.
Don't you think this would be great qualities to suggest as a core for our politicians? So, let's make America great enough that our children see a brighter future for them.
We wonder why the bullying, the depression, the cynicism, the rudeness. It is not in their DNA. It has been a learned response that our society thrives on.
Mark Doebel, Clear Lake
Letter: Public needs clarity on port authority
Before proceeding with the Gas Pipeline proposed by the Mitchell County Board of Supervisors there are questions to be answered. MCBOS along with supervisors from Cerro Gordo, Worth, and Winnebago counties created a new level of government that is unaccountable. Members include Merlin Bartz, Worth County supervisor, Stan Walk, Mitchell County supervisor, and Jennifer Andrade, director of Mitchell County Economic Development. Andrade never faces voters in an election. Who belongs from your county?
The Port Authority approved a lease option between Midstream Methanol and the Port Authority on June 22, 2017. The land was owned by Merlin and Lisa Bartz. Bartz abstained from the vote. Lease options were signed between the Port Authority and Merlin and Lisa Bartz. Again, Bartz abstained.
Fast forward to the MCBOS meeting June 19. Mitchell County Attorney Mark Walk requested a closed session to discuss the gas pipeline. Walk announced he would not proceed with the closed session. He explained that it had to do with citizens concerned about Merlin Bartz acquiring certain property that was being leased to the Port Authority. The attorney stated he interviewed former Supervisor Shannon Paulus and decided there would be no reason for further discussion. That simple?
Finally, Stan Walk wrote an email that has been widely circulated and carries threats of physical violence. In the email he states, “Mess with my projects one more time behind my back and the gloves come off, never to go back on again, understood?” Doesn’t the title of county supervisor mean you work for the entire county and the citizens as a whole? What are “your” projects Supervisor Walk?
For many years the Walk/Voaklander agenda has been operating mostly unchecked. Remember, one man cannot run the whole show. It always takes two votes to pass “Walk’s projects.”
Al Winters, Osage
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