Kirstin Barbara Baker (named for her grandmother, my mother) is now 35 years old and lives in Ankeny, Iowa, with her husband, who she met in college. (I actually wanted to name her Dagny, after a very successful grandmother, but Steve nixed that name for various reasons. (Dagny is a Norwegian name and pretty unusual as well.)

These days we visit Kirstin and Gage about once a month. This is a very busy family as the children are young: Myla, the eldest, is in first grade. Twins Alina and Thea are four years old (nearly five; they are looking at preschool programs in Ankeny, etc.) Baby Cecelia is four months old and another lovely young baby in the family.

Kirstin Rodewald is an instructional coach in the Ankeny School District, which is a position she coveted. This is a busy, yet interesting position, as she mentors teachers on the elementary level.

For his part, Gage Rodewald is in the security business. and works in Des Moines, taking many cases that involve drug abuse in Iowa.

Both are good parents as they must be, with such young children. Gage is very good with the baby Cecelia, and the girls in the family treat her with care. She’s a lovely young baby but at four months, she’s still pretty little.

Kirstin and I are planning a trip, in June, where we will go to Chicago by train. This trip is coordinated by my able husband, Steve, who is helping us plan the vacation.

Later this year, the Rodewald family generally visits us at least once in the summertime. Most often it’s around the Quad-City Times Bix 7 weekend, which Kirstin and I run together. Fortunately, this 68-year-old mother can keep up with daughter Kirstin as we do the two-mile race, up and down the hill. Last year she beat me by one foot.

Both Steve and I so enjoyed this trip; we were with friends who had lived in this area years ago, and we enjoyed every minute of the vacation.

We had so much fun on this trip as our friends were familiar with the area, years ago, and they took us to places we had never seen before.

A special place was Salem, Massachusetts, where we saw ghosts, goblins, and all sorts of folks in interesting outfits, looking like ghosts and goblins.

We also drove up and down the East Coast to an extent, centering in Boston but also visiting Maine, Massachusetts and much of the upper East Coast.

States we visited included Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine. The main cities are Portland, Maine; Manchester, Boston, and of course, Salem, Massachusetts.

This was a few months ago, and the weather was beautiful. We filled every day, walking the Freedom Trail in Boston, and enjoying the fun-filled, quirky and somewhat odd Salem, Massachusetts. If you reader are interested in witches and the like, you’d enjoy this town. We were pretty much flabbergasted, to be fair.

Boston is a lovely city, with all sorts of history. I have a college degree in history and I cannot say how delighted I was to be on this trip with good friends.

In fact, these are the friends who we see regularly, as we also go to the Circa ‘21 Dinner Theater in Rock Island with this couple. It’s good friends that make the world go round, I think, and we are very luck to have friends such as we have. Every night I pray for our friends, including those who took us on this trip.

If you readers get a chance, I would suggest that Salem, Massachusetts is one of the more interesting places to visit, I think, in the United States. If you are interested in quirky, or somewhat odd tourist attractions, this would fit the bill.

I am fortunate in that I have visited many places in the United States, but this trip is a fresh memory and I hop you enjoy the recounting therein.

Kirstin and Gage had their fourth baby girl in late December. Cecelia Baker Rodewald is now 1 week old. Twins, Alina and Thea, are 3.5 years old and enjoy dance and swim lessons. Myla is 7 years old next month, and is loving first grade. She is in dance, swim and softball. They are embracing the beautiful chaos that is a family of six during this holiday season.

Jill and Kevin Hansen live in Walcott, Iowa. Jill works at Davenport Schools and Kevin is in electrical sales. They also became grandparents this year, to a beautiful baby girl.

Mick, now 29 years old, and Annie welcome their first child, Grace Elizabeth Baker, on Feb. 27, 2024. Mick got his CPA license this year and is now a CPA in Chicago. Annie is a therapist. They moved from downtown Chicago and now live in Lake Forest, Ill.

Hailey, 23, is graduating with her Master’s Degree in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Northern Iowa in December and will work and live in Cedar Rapids in January.

Brady (21 years old) is a junior at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, studying Kinesiology.

Mike and Teiah work at West High School (as does Jill Hansen). Mike and Teiah also became first time grandparents to a lovely little girl. So this means, that we became great grandparents to two girls, that are older than our youngest grandchild. You don’t see that every day!

Bryant had a big year as he turned 30 years old and celebrated his first Father’s Day on June 15. His daughter is Holly Campbell and was born on June 9, 2025. His job is at World-Wide Logistics. Delaney is a speech pathologist in Des Moines, Iowa.

Nate lives in Waukee and plays in a golf league with Bryant. Collin, now 21, moved back to Davenport and is a disc jockey.

As for Steve and I, we had a busy year, even as we are retirees. We travelled in January and February to Jamaica, made a few trips to Chicago, and spent about a month in the Golf Shores and Biloxi. In August, we traveled by train to Chicago to see my favorite team, the Iowa State Cyclones, beat Kansas State. In September, we travelled to Boston with the Moons, and got to go to Fenway Park to see the Yankees and the Red Sox play! The Red Sox won that game. Then we made our way up to Bar Harbor, Maine where we enjoyed some great seafood! We also make many trips to Ankeny, to visit our four darling granddaughters, which keeps us young.

We also attend Circa ‘21 shows on almost a monthly basis with friends from Tipton, Diane and Rick Moon. A recent example is the Elvis Presley musical, “Heartbreak Hotel.”

I spend time volunteering at the Friendly House in Davenport on a regular basis, helping the children of Davenport, as they grow up in a challenging environment.

We do keep in close touch with family and friends, which I believe is an Iowa tradition. For example, Kirstin and I ran in the 2025 Quad-City Times Bix 7, and she beat my time by about 1 second.

Our health is pretty good. Steve has some concerns, as we are aging, I’m also dealing with some memory issues, but we have a good outlook on that front. I’ve only had one treatment in December, so far, but it’s going very smoothly. I’m now 68 years and Steve is 75 years old. We celebrate our 38th anniversary next week.

Happy Holidays, as always, from the Baker’s

The feeling in this country is conflicted, to be sure. But the people of Davenport spoke loudly and with enthusiasm last weekend.

The rally I attended was full of enthusiasm for a change in government, which is about three years away, to be sure.

However, the power of people is not to be denied, and there were thousands of individuals speaking up for themselves with emotion and clarity.

The pundits are reporting various scenarios, but the federal government seems to be in a mess of sorts. The Speaker of the House will not approve of Adelina Grijalva, a woman in Arizona who is running for Democratic office; however, he’s approved other Republicans. Seems unfair, right?

The people of the United States are conflicted on many levels, but fairness and justice are the goals of many, to be sure. Adelita, for example, won a special election in September, 2025, for Arizona’s 7th District. She is waiting, waiting, waiting ….

There were thousands of individuals in the famed park in the center of Davenport, which is Vander Veer Park.

I have to admit, I thought I was going to a local demonstration. But the news after the event was enlightening. I have friend from journalism school (Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa) who were at the event with me. I walked with several individuals who had been part of a bustling Quad-City Times newsroom, a few years ago.

We Bakers recently arrived home after a fabulous trip to the East Coast of America.

Our friends had invited us to visit the Boston area, rent a car and drive up to Maine. I was a little concerned at first, but that was ridiculous as our friend, Diane Moon, did a bang-up job planning this excursion.

If any of you are like me — a history buff — you would just love Boston. I can’t explain how wonderful this trip was; we had almost perfect days for about two weeks.

According to visitor statistics, Boston was founded 395 years ago, on September 7, 1630. The original buildings appeared to be lovingly restored; we had a terrific time exploring the “midnight ride of Paul Revere,” Bunker Hill, and various locations for times of the European entry to the United States. Examples: Faneuil Hall and Quincy Marketplace, a lively spot in the central city. I also enjoyed following the “Freedom Trail, which is lovingly marked around the city.

We experienced what was a rather challenging trip into an Italian North Boston neighborhood which had an excellent Italian restaurant. The layout was like a European city with narrow streets lined with cars and tourists. We finally found a parking ramp not too far, and succeeded in eating a magnificent meal in this charming part of the city.

A good example of the more modern era is the baseball stadium. Diane Moon had purchased tickets to the Yankees/Red Sox series, and I can’t explain fully how excited I was to finally see Fenway Park. The Boston team was founded in 1912 and was one of the first teams in the baseball association.

The New York Yankees — a big draw in Boston — had won the first two of three games. We walked in early; I purchased a Boston Baseball hat and became an enthusiastic Boston fan for one night of terrific baseball.

The Red Sox started with a six-run first inning, pounding the Yankee pitcher and defense. We had young folks in back of us, Yankee fans, who were silent during the first part of the contest. But New York came back and scored 4 runs in total. They became pretty loud at some points, but we didn’t care. It was an excellent game to watch.

Nevertheless, I do believe we had some grand aura around us as the team played lights out compared to the previous games. That added to the excitement.

And that Green Wall! My goodness!

Our home for several days was handy to Acadia National Park, and we climbed a mountain. Acadia National Park is a 47,000-acre Atlantic Coast recreation area primarily on Maine’s Mount Desert Island. Its landscape is marked by woodland, rocky beaches and glacier-scoured granite peaks such as Cadillac Mountain, the highest point in the East Coast of the United States.

Height does not bother me, much, but we enjoyed this park immensely. It was founded by members of the Rockefeller family — primarily John D. Rockefeller Jr., who had the vision to lay out the park’s roads for cars, and the people who would be using them. At one point the land he worked and designed was purchased by the U.S. government.

Bar Harbor was just a few miles from where we stayed. It’s a charming coastal town on Mount Desert Island and a gateway to Acadia National Park. It’s known for rugged beauty, fresh seafood and historic street. Visitors enjoy areas like Sand Beach, viewing the ocean from the historic Shore Path. The town offers boutique lodging, local shops and a vibrant restaurant scene, making it a popular vacation spot. It’s also a summer home to many of the more wealthy residents on the East Coast.

If any of you readers are interested in Boston travels, I would suggest September is a month to be there. We were told, repeatedly, that the September crowds are manageable compared to other months.

One good example is Salem, Massachusetts, which is a “hoot.” Salem is full of witches and folks dressed in costume and is a prime spot for visitors in the month of October.

I can say, without prejudice, that I felt very safe, at all times as we were in Chicago just a few weeks ago.

The City has a reputation — as do all of the large cities in America. Chicago is known for gangsters such as Al Capone. However, city officials insist the city is much more safe than it has been in the past.

This boils down to a Democrats/Republicans battle, between President Trump and Governor J.B. Pritzker. The governor is dead set against any federal operatives coming into the city, but the Trump Administration wants to fight this battle, it appears.

In addition, Washington, D.C. is in the headlines as the city is crawling with federal officers. There is much discussion on the new approach to policing big cities.

I’m from Minneapolis, originally, so I’m not much of a mouse in a big city. However, I do try to think though the processes of how to get from one place to another. And I don’t do much “by myself” when on vacation in a big city.

Chicago is handy to the Quad-Cities, so many folks are either from there or visit it easily. This trip was on a train, which is a delightful way to travel in the Midwest. The cost is small, and the train is both comfortable and interesting. I haven’t been on a cross-country trip in years but the short 3-hour train ride was easy and inexpensive.

Chicago natives may describe the city as two halves; with the tourist-heavy locations much safer than other parts of the city.

However, that doesn’t mean the tourists don’t misbehave. One night, we walked past a neighborhood bar and a large fellow jumped up, grabbed me gently, and talked us into coming in the establishment. Once there he said he’d buy drinks, but when this event was over, he reneged on that promise.

Still and all, it was a most interesting and surprising experience! At one point the gentleman took off his shirt, and that got him lots of “professional” attention.

Here are some travel tips to mention, before visiting a big city:

1. Do your research on the destination.

2. Don’t leave packing to the last minute.

3. Do be careful and cautious in a dangerous country.

4. Don’t drink the water if it’s not safe.

5. Do travel to new places.

6. Take steps not to succumb to jet lag.

7. Do be friendly to people you meet.

8. Don’t allow yourself to be pushed around by salespeople.

The football game in Ames last weekend was a doozy and me, as the big Cyclone fan, has fingers crossed for this weekend’s game.

I have not seen the odds yet, but the Iowa State team in on a roll, of sorts, and all kinds of things happen when the game is in Ames. Coach Matt Campbell is most excellent for Iowa State, and we fans are quite a big more excited, year by year.

According to journalist’s research, on Sept. 30, 2014, the U.S. Federal Court of Appeals overruled a lower court’s decision that colleges and universities could pay student athletes up to $5,000 in deferred compensation, which should be held in trust until the athletes leave college.

Now this is a big step in the college football world, and many fans think the game has changed too much. However, the decision was also considered a win for the National Collegiate Football Association, or NCAA, which claims the amateur nature of the game should keep it exempt from antitrust laws, or laws put in place until the athletes leave college.

This decision as a win for the NCAA, which claims that the amateur nature of college sports should keep it exempt from anti-trust laws, or laws put in place to ensure fair and free competition in an open marketplace.

Originally, the case involved a lead plaintiff, a college basketball player from the UCLA team. O’Bannon claimed that athletes should be allowed earnings from the marketing and commercialization of the images after leaving college.

There was quite a to-do at the time, about 10 years ago, according to https://journalistsresource.org/education/college-sports-how-winning-impacts-revenue. The 2014 ruling made by Judge Claudia Wilkes, maintained the NCAA violated Sherman Antitrust Laws. The decision to reverse came in 2015, when Northwestern University players voted to unionize, claiming they were employees of Northwestern and thus deserved the right to collectively bargain. But in August, 2015, the National Labor Relations Board decided it did not have jurisdiction in the case, effectively blocking the unionization of the Northwestern athletes.

Many people saw this as win for the NCAA leaders who have long argues that paying athletes will result in an unfair marketplace where richer schools are able to scoop up all the best high school players by paying a premium.

The NCAA study shows:

1. Some top schools make up to $200 million from their football and basketball programs.

2. Wins equal cash for many collegiate football teams. In fact, a single win during the season may mean a $3 million increase for some top schools.

3. In general, among the 117 schools surveyed, football programs are more lucrative than basketball, bringing in revenue figures from $44 million to $123 million annually.

4. College sports is a multi-billion industry with several schools reporting revenue around $100 million annually and some top schools bring in $200 million annually.

Many fans will argue about the impact of money on college sports these days, and that makes sense, of course!

But this Iowa State fan has fingers crossed that the game in Ames goes the right way — this year anyway!

When I was growing up in Minnesota, our parents were very strict about television. We were able to watch certain shows at specific times, they were not generally impressed with television in the 1960s.

For example, one year our television broke and the family didn’t get another television for a few years. That was interesting!

On Sunday nights, however, the Cox family would get together and watch “Bonanza,” as one example. That might be the only show of the day, however, as everyone in family is nonchalant about television in general.

However, it turns out my folks were perhaps ahead of their time.

According to the Harvard Health online, excessive television-watching, defined as four or more hours each day, is associated with a greater risk of brain-based disorders, such as dementia, depression and Parkinson’s disease, a new analysis suggests.

The Harvard study was published online Nov. 3, 2023, by the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity. Researchers looked at data on more than 473,000 adults, ages 39-72 years old, all enrolled in the US Biobank.

Participants were tracked either until they died, or were diagnosed with dementia, Parkinson’s disease or depression. The study ended in 2018 for some participants, 2021 for others.

Reports were on how many hours of television they watched aside for work or exercise, using a computer or watching a typical television set.

Compared with those who watch less than an hour of television each day, participants who watch four of more hours of TV daily 28 percent higher risk of dementia, a 35 percent greater risk of depression and a 16 percent higher risk.

Those who reported a moderate amount of television use, such as 30-60 minutes per day, appeared to have a lower risk of those conditions.

The study was observational, meaning it could not prove that excessive television watching in itself causes these probably, is an early sign of them, or results from other factors contributing to these disorders.

What about the kids?

Parents are often shocked when pediatricians tell them that watching television is a bad idea. According to HealthChildren.org, children’s brains develop at about 18 months of age, because most toddlers already have. watched the tube. Surveys say more than 92 percent of 1-year-olds have already used a mobile device, some starting as young as four months of age.

Parents — probably sleep-deprived — may respond with comments like, “My baby likes television.”

However, experts argue that the young brain may see the moving parts and colors on television, but cannot make sense of all that action in one place.

It takes about 18 months for a child’s brain to develop to a point where the symbols on a screen to to represent their equivalents in the real world.

What the infants and toddlers need most to learn to how to interact with the people around them. That does not mean they they shouldn’t video-chat with a distant grandparents or deployed parent, but when it comes to day-to-day learning they need to touch things, shake them, throw them, and most of all, the little ones need to the the faces and voices of those who they love, the most.

Apps can teach toddlers to tap and swipe at a screen, but studies show these skills do not translate into real-world learning.

These days I watch about 3-4 hours of television at night. That’s a bit on the high side, but it’s not every night, just in general.

My husband and I enjoy several of the same programs, so there is that.

But in general, if one was raised without much television in the first place, it’s rather easy to monitor practices such as overuse.

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The Channel Cat is a ferry service that operates boats in the Quad-Cities region. It is actually owned by the Rock Island County Mass Transit District (what a mouthful!).

According to the Channel Cat website: The Channel Cat was started back in 1994, by River Action, a local non-profit group dedicated to fostering environmental, economic and cultural vitality of the Mississippi River and its riverfront in the Quad-Cities region, received a $25,000 grant from the Riverboat Development Authority to conduct a feasibility study.

A committee was formed that included River Action, city planners from three of the larger cities in the Quad-Cities, including Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa, and Moline in Illinois. It also included the local transit authority, MetroLINK, a Riverboat captor, a retired Coast Guard employee and local non-gaming riverboat company gaming company, the Celebration Belle.

It all started with the committee purchasing an aluminum pontoon boat with limited seating and began planning for the service. Initial talks were with the riverfront cities in the upper pool of the Mississippi River.

It took about nine month, but the committee worked on the design and construction of the boats to be purchased, docking sites and personnel, and getting community support.

A contest was held to name the boat and professor at Scott Community College had the idea: “Channel Cat.” A local marketing firm designed the log and St. Ambrose University developed a marketing plan.

The first boat was launched on the July 4th weekend in 1995.

River Action operated the service for three years before asking MetroLINK to own the boats as a public transit option.

At that time the three bridges in the area that connect the two states were in different phases of repair or reconstruction. This caused traffic congestion and delays for folks going back and forth to work.

Hence, it was an opportunity for MetroLINK to provide passenger ferryboat service to provide an alternative mode of transportation to cross the Mississippi River.

A grant application was eventually completed and MetroLINK was awarded a $1.2 million grant to upgrade the boat. The company later purchased three more passenger boats.

The boats are covered, open-air, 47 feet long and weigh 24 tons. They are military transport barges with an aluminum hull, a deck, seating for 49 passengers and room for seven bicycles. Each Channel Cat is powered by two 250-horsepower John Deere (of course!) engines using B20 bio-diesel fuel and all boats are fully ADA accessible.

A local riverboat company is contracted to provide support with captains and deckhands.

Our captain yesterday was a retiree who had been with the company seven years. The deckhand was a great guy; he looks like a NFL linebacker and is super nice.

The four landing locations offer a variety of businesses and restaurants to visit along the bi-state riverfront. A fifth location is planned to come soon.

Currently, the cities now served are Moline and East Moline in Illinois as well as the original cities of Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa.

The funds come from the federal Transit Administration Ferryboat Program and the federal Highway Administration Ferryboat program. MetroLINK has won nearly $5 million for dock infrastructure projects. According to the website:

John Deere Commons Landing in Moline: This included improvements to enhance ADA accessibility, flood mitigation activities and passenger amenities, as well as building a replacement dock for use by both the passengers on the ferryboat as well as those boarding. The final phase was completed in May, 2025.

I can tell you it is quite a nice place to land, and to visit the area. We spent a couple of hours there yesterday.

Village of East Davenport landing in Davenport: This project includes a new passenger ferryboat dock with possible upgrades to include new lighting, railings/gates, real-time signage and video surveillance.

The Bend Landing in East Moline: This project is to start next summer and will include a new passenger ferryboat dock, landslide improvements, streetscaping, sidewalks, EV charging, new lighting, railings/gates, real-time signage and video surveillance.

MetroLINK continues to partner with River Action’s Summer Education Series. This is a very cool idea: Each summer, the “Channel Cat Talks” include experts who explain what passengers find of interest: These are first-hand accounts about the wildlife, history, culture and geology of the this part of the America.

Special tours were held when the new Interstate 74 bridge was constructed a couple of years ago.

MetroLINK and the Channel Cat have been awarded the Quad-Cities Chamber of Commerce Multi-Model Award, the River Action Eddy Award, and is consistently ranked as one of the top three tourist attractions each summer.

In short, it has had a tremendous economic impact on the Quad-Cities.

The service offers an alternative to crossing the river, and access to two states, three downtown areas and bike trails.

We had a nine-person group yesterday and it was darn near a perfect Thursday afternoon: We had lots of fun, and found the Illinois side to be pretty lively during a summer afternoon.

Look up this attraction next time you visit the Quad-Cities!

It is a few days late, but summer is a welcome time of year in this writer’s mind. There are flowers, birds and all sorts of wildlife and events to enjoy, after all!

According to the Farmers Almanac, the June solstice, also known as the summer solstice, occurs when the Sun travels along its northernmost path in the sky. This marks the astronomical start of summer in the northern half of the globe. In the Southern Hemisphere, it’s the opposite: the June Solstice marks the astronomical start of winter when the sun it at the lowest part of the sky.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the June solstice occurs when the Sun reaches its highest and northernmost points in the sky. It makes the start of summer in the northern half of the blog.

In contrast, the June Solstice comes from the Latin words sol (“sun”) and sinister (“to stand still). Due to the Earth’s tiled axis, the Sun does not rise and set at the same locations on the one the horizon each morning and evening; its rise and set positions move northward or southward in the sky as Earth travels around the Sun through the year.

In addition, the sun’s track in the sky becomes higher or lower through the year.

The June solstice is significant because the Sun reaches its northernmost point in the sky as the Earth travels around the sun through the year. Also, the Sun’s track in the sky becomes higher or lower throughout the year.

After the solstice, the sun appears to reverse course and head back in the opposite direction. The motion referred to here is the apparent path of the Sun when one v few its position at the same time each day: For example, at the noon hour.

Over the year, its path forms a sort of flattened Figure Eight, called an analemma. Of course, the Sun itself is not moving unless you consider its orbit around the Milky Way galaxy; instead, this change in position in the sky at we on Earth notice is caused by the tilt of the Earth’s axis as it orbits the Sun, as well as the Earth’s elliptical, rather than circular orbit.

Of course, the Summer Solstice is also a spiritual time for many Americans. According to research, both pagen and other religions celebrate the solstice in striking ways. For example, movies have been made about the solstice, including several with the title “Summer Solstice.”

In the Northern Hemisphere, the June solstice (aka summer solstice) occurs when the Sun reaches its highest and northernmost points in the sky. It marks the start of summer in the northern half of the globe. (In contrast, the June solstice in the Southern Hemisphere is when the Sun is at its lowest point in the sky, marking the start of winter.)

Solstice comes from the Latin words sol (“sun”) and sistere (“to stand still”). Due to Earth’s tilted axis, the Sun doesn’t rise and set at the same locations on the horizon each morning and evening; its rise and set positions move northward or southward in the sky as Earth travels around the Sun through the year. Also, the Sun’s track in the sky becomes higher or lower throughout the year. The June solstice is significant because the Sun reaches its northernmost point in the sky at this time, at which point the Sun’s path does not change for a brief period of time.

After the solstice, the Sun appears to reverse course and head back in the opposite direction. The motion referred to here is the apparent path of the Sun when one views its position in the sky at the same time each day, for example, at local noon. Over the year, its path forms a sort of flattened figure eight, called an analemma. Of course, the Sun itself is not moving (unless you consider its orbit around the Milky Way galaxy); instead, this change in position in the sky that we on Earth notice is caused by the tilt of Earth’s axis as it orbits the Sun, as well as Earth’s elliptical, rather than circular, orbit.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the June solstice (aka summer solstice) occurs when the Sun reaches its highest and northernmost points in the sky. It marks the start of summer in the northern half of the globe. (In contrast, the June solstice in the Southern Hemisphere is when the Sun is at its lowest point in the sky, marking the start of winter.)

Solstice comes from the Latin words sol (“sun”) and sistere (“to stand still”). Due to Earth’s tilted axis, the Sun doesn’t rise and set at the same locations on the horizon each morning and evening; its rise and set positions move northward or southward in the sky as Earth travels around the Sun through the year. Also, the Sun’s track in the sky becomes higher or lower throughout the year. The June solstice is significant because the Sun reaches its northernmost point in the sky at this time, at which point the Sun’s path does not change for a brief period of time.

After the solstice, the Sun appears to reverse course and head back in the opposite direction. The motion referred to here is the apparent path of the Sun when one views its position in the sky at the same time each day, for example, at local noon. Over the year, its path forms a sort of flattened figure eight, called an analemma. Of course, the Sun itself is not moving (unless you consider its orbit around the Milky Way galaxy); instead, this change in position in the sky that we on Earth notice is caused by the tilt of Earth’s axis as it orbits the Sun, as well as Earth’s elliptical, rather than circular, orbit.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the June solstice (aka summer solstice) occurs when the Sun reaches its highest and northernmost points in the sky. It marks the start of summer in the northern half of the globe. (In contrast, the June solstice in the Southern Hemisphere is when the Sun is at its lowest point in the sky, marking the start of winter.)

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Volunteer adults, all part of the Iowa State Extension Service Master Gardener program (first one in Iowa!) gather at the Friendly House every week to host at a fine youth facility in western Davenport.

The children are all excited: On this day, they would learn about square-foot gardens and all the children were excited to begin, working in the finely honed soil in the gardens behind the Friendly House.

In our case, we had “Group 3” of the six assorted groups. Partner Susan and I helped the little ones to learn how to plant, seed, water and care for a number of different plants. In our case, the children planted tomatoes, green peppers and also a number of flowers — Zinnias, in fact.

This project has been ongoing for many years, of course.

It was announced yesterday that the project again won the “Community Award” from the Master Gardener program.

The schoolchildren arrive after school — this school is located nearby — and they are animated and excited to learn how to plant and care for items they can eat, or appreciate.

For example, several of the children wanted to work with flowers, while others were interested in a seed-started gizmo brought in by one of the Master Gardener leaders. It was a handy device and the kids enjoyed putting seeds in place, in a square-foot brightly colored box.

Others wanted to plant seedlings, such as the tomatoes and green peppers. This was pretty easy to do; a number of the volunteers work several hours a week in this program.

Planting a garden is good for children, according to the Public Broadcasting Service. For example, parents struggling to find ways to encourage their children to eat a healthy and well-balanced diet may consider gardening a useful tool. It does not have to be perfect: Try planting in a small raised bed or growing a few edibles in existing landscaping.

A much bigger investment is how planting a garden can affect not only your child’s body but also their brain and soul.

Gardening and the brain: Again, according to PBS, there are many scientific concepts that can be discussed with kids. One study, for example, showed that children who participated in gardening projects scored higher than those who did not.

Some questions:

Why do the plants need sun?

How does the plant “drink” water?

Why are worms good for the plants? Yesterday, one of the young boys found a worm, and good heavens! That caused some real excitement!

Soon, you may be able to discuss soil composition, photosynthesis and more. You can also add a little math to the experience, such as measuring how much plants are growing from week-to-week or counting the flowers on each plant. Supplement the experience of gardening, PBS suggests, by making trips to the Botanical Center or making a photo journal of the plants that your family is growing.

More pictures to see for yourself:

Volunteer adults, all part of the Iowa State Extension Service Master Gardener program (first one in Iowa!) gather at the Friendly House every week to host at a fine youth facility in western Davenport.

The children are all excited: On this day, they would learn about square-foot gardens and all the children were excited to begin, working in the finely honed soil in the gardens behind the Friendly House.

In our case, we had “Group 3” of the six assorted groups. Partner Susan and I helped the little ones to learn how to plant, seed, water and care for a number of different plants. In our case, the children planted tomatoes, green peppers and also a number of flowers — Zinnias, in fact.

This project has been ongoing for many years, of course.

It was announced yesterday that the project again won the “Community Award” from the Master Gardener program.

The schoolchildren arrive after school — this school is located nearby — and they are animated and excited to learn how to plant and care for items they can eat, or appreciate.

For example, several of the children wanted to work with flowers, while others were interested in a seed-started gizmo brought in by one of the Master Gardener leaders. It was a handy device and the kids enjoyed putting seeds in place, in a square-foot brightly colored box.

Others wanted to plant seedlings, such as the tomatoes and green peppers. This was pretty easy to do; a number of the volunteers work several hours a week in this program.

Planting a garden is good for children, according to the Public Broadcasting Service. For example, parents struggling to find ways to encourage their children to eat a healthy and well-balanced diet may consider gardening a useful tool. It does not have to be perfect: Try planting in a small raised bed or growing a few edibles in existing landscaping.

A much bigger investment is how planting a garden can affect not only your child’s body but also their brain and soul.

Gardening and the brain: Again, according to PBS, there are many scientific concepts that can be discussed with kids. One study, for example, showed that children who participated in gardening projects scored higher than those who did not.

Some questions:

Why do the plants need sun?

How does the plant “drink” water?

Why are worms good for the plants? Yesterday, one of the young boys found a worm, and good heavens! That caused some real excitement!

Soon, you may be able to discuss soil composition, photosynthesis and more. You can also add a little math to the experience, such as measuring how much plants are growing from week-to-week or counting the flowers on each plant. Supplement the experience of gardening, PBS suggests, by making trips to the Botanical Center or making a photo journal of the plants that your family is growing.

More pictures to see for yourself:

It was a sunny day on May 17, 2025, when hundreds of customers filed into the Iowa State Extension Service on Tanglefoot Lane, Davenport.

It was the annual Plant Sale, and boy, was this fun!

The Master Gardener program is pretty well-known in Iowa.

According to the https://mastergardenerhours.hort.iastate.edu, the point of the program is to use research-based horticulture and gardening knowledge and practices to educate people and coordinate projects that promote healthy communities.

In addition, in 2019, 1,897 Master Gardener volunteers provided 114 thousand volunteer hours worth an estimated $2.9 million. There were 2,134 new Master Gardeners trained at 24 locations, and 115 thousand of pounds of produce donated. Finally there were 23. thousand Continuing Education Hours.

That was was six years ago!

I am now a Master Gardener and my background is from my father, Emery Cox, and his mother, Dagny Nelson Cox. Dagny, who was from Norway, embraced the climate in Virginia, and was famous for the flowers she grew near Norfolk. There are signs up at the gardens she designed and cared for.

My father bought those talents to Edina, Minn., and taught his five children basic rules on gardening.

The Society of American Florists reports research from Rutgers University, which shows that the presents we pick out for others say a lot about ourselves.

Jeannette Haviland-Jones, director of the University’s Human Emotions Lab, explored this topic. Research shows that those who send flowers — in comparison to other gifts — are viewed as successful, caring and emotionally-intelligent people.

In addition:

1. Both men and women who give flowers are perceived as happy, achieving, strong, capable and courageous folks.

2. Men and women both give the impression that they can effectively express their feelings and take time to understand the feelings of others.

3. Female floral gifts are viewed as more appreciative of beauty and nature.

“Our findings show that you can influence and change what people think of you in a significant way,” Haviland-Jones said. “The news is particularly important to those interested in enhancing friendships and romances, even business relationships.”

I was in charge of figuring the pricing of the products people bought. For about 4 hours on May 17, I had a pad of paper and the flowers were marked in colors as to prices. Some customers bought a lot of flowers, others just 1 or 2 plants.

Little children — and there were many children in the mix — brought home free flowers and also had a place to go to learn about how to care for the flowers and play with toys, and books, etc.

It was pretty hectic, at times, but I do believe the Master Gardeners in Scott County do a good job on such projects. The people came out, and while it was not perfect, it was a success to many.

Thank goodness the weather is slowly improving in Iowa.

Slowly but surely!

The First Amendment of the Constitution of United States is put in place for good reason.

Our Founding Fathers considered communication — such as in newspapers — a primary reason for success in a new nation. Hence, the emphasis on newspapers.

According to Congress.gov, the First Amendment reads as such: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise, thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people to peaceably assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

Some 60 people gathered at the Scott County branch of Scott Community College, located in downtown Davenport. Many represented active organizations in the community and most were retirees, but not all.

Former colleagues, Tory Brecht and Ed Tibbetts and I all worked together at the Quad-City Times in Davenport, for many years. We all agree, journalism is at a crossroads but we all read newspapers, regularly.

We three are also part of the Iowa Writers Collaborative, a collection of people around the state who care about newspapers and those who read them.

For example, one of my three sisters taught me how to read a newspaper, decades ago. She probably remembers what a pest I was, when she was reading the paper and I was tugging at her arm, wanting to do the same thing!

Brecht hosted the session, which ran about 90 minutes. In an excellent presentation, the speakers showed past editions of the Quad-City Times on a big-screen.

These newspaper copies of the Times caused some of us to remember those days: 60-page newspapers, full newsrooms, talented writers and photographers. The 60-page newspaper contained the grocery ads, and that was the case for decades.

“There’s no magic bullet,” Brecht said, but there are places one can find that promotes reliable news coverage.

Some examples:

1. Substack, the forum that I use, as do my former colleagues.

2. The Iowa Capital Dispatch, run by former and new journalists.

3. The Iowa Starting Line.

Tibbetts pointed out, that when journalists are at their best, they explain and point out news for the education of the public.

“There’s lots of ‘fluffy’ news these days,” he added.

Wages and departmental memory are examples of challenges that face the young people who consider journalism as a career, Smith said.

Steve Scranton, an activist, asked how organizations can attract news coverage in this era.

Journalists often face “triage” issues, as multiple news events at one time make it nearly impossible to adequately report on, Brecht said.

One event attendee suggested “Young Turks,” as an alternative and interesting news source. The platform is run by native Americans and includes news stories ignored by major outlets.

The television giants of the past — think Walter Cronkite, or Tom Brokaw — that’s in the past, Brecht said. Consider the changes in age-old formats, such as television and radio. Both platforms have adapted to the new era.

Remember when we had like 3-4 television channels to choose from?

One of the younger audience members, Emily VanDeWoestyne, asked the panel how to stand up to a well-funded organizations.

Tibbetts suggested finding a “sense of humility,” and shared frame of reference. “Read wisely and widely,” he added.

Brecht pointed out that in the “Golden Age,” the daily newspaper in Davenport was the “Davenport Democrat,” and the daily newspaper in Rock Island was the “Rock Island Republican.”

“There’s too many choices for news,” said Judy Hawthorne, one of the attendees. “How do we pare them down?”

That’s “news exhaustion,” Smith said, noting that the voters, such as those at the forum, are a valuable demographic when it comes to elections, and voting.

Here are the blogs written by Friday’s panel:

Zachary Oren Smith, “Cornhold Champions.”

Ed Tibbetts, “Along the Mississippi”

Tory Brecht, “Brecht’s Beat.”

Event organizers said the next forum will be Aug. 8, at Western Illinois University, located on the Illinois side of the Mississippi River in the Quad-Cities.

How important are newspapers, and journalists? Check the U.S. Constitution for clarity on that question.

See that dental office? It’s a bit on the unusual side as it is for patients like me, who need a treatment of a tooth that’s taken months to health. I was told I have four more months to go. (Sigh.)

According to the American Dental Association, many dental practices find it helpful to survey patients about their experience. Questions may range from how comfortable the reception area is, to whether they felt their dental concerns were adequately addressed.

(Note: I had NO problems at the recent visit; I can describe it as mostly pleasant.

1. Customize dental surveys so they’re appropriate to the patient’s experience. For instance, a new patient should be asked different questions than a patient who came in for routine work.

2. Be realistic about how many questions you include in the survey. Don’t ask questions that aren’t relevant or that don’t provide valuable input. Remember that patients who complete the survey are using their personal time to provide feedback.

3. Ask the most important questions first so you receive the most valuable information even if the patient doesn’t complete the entire survey.

4. Make sure the emails and surveys give patients a way to opt out of future communications.

5. Your practice management software may include an electronic instant survey for patients. Make sure you review the questions asked to ensure they’re relevant to your practice and your patients.

As a little girl, I was the fifth of five children so the dental care was somewhat pre-historic. My mother took me to the dentist, and in those days, he’d give you a glass of water to gargle and you’d spit it out on a sink placed nearby.

These days, they insert a tube in one’s mouth, and suck it out by another tube.

If you remember the old days, some dentists would give out candy to the little children. I don’t know if they do so these days, but one might find that more trouble than expected.

My siblings have good teeth; my mother and two of my sisters were models in Minneapolis, Minn. They had and have, beautiful smiles.

As the family runt, I’ve been struggling for about one year, now. Apparently, if one has teeth problems while in their 60’s, the whole system switches to care for the most needy.

I am fortunate to be at the other end of that scale, and have relatively few dental — as well as physical issues.

It’s known that daily exercise is a benefit, but doing it outdoors? More benefits yet!

For example, according to Shay Norvell, a certified fitness instructor who leads classes on outdoor fitness at Cancer Wellness, there are seven reasons to take your exercise outdoors.

Find more information at this link.

Everyone can use fresh air and sunshine. Here are top benefits of exercising outdoors:

1. “If you are getting through cancer treatment, getting outdoors can be part of the healing process, according to Norvell. Even 5-10 minutes per day can be part of the healing process.

2. It’s a natural antidepressant. Outdoor exercise can help ward off Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, depression and anxiety because sunshine naturally increases serotonin, a hormone that may affect one’s mood. Exercise itself produces endorphins, another feel-good hormone that boosts your mood and reduces pain.

(As you will see in the photos attached, we luckily live near one of the nicer county parks in Iowa; Scott County Park, just minutes from our home in rural Scott County, Iowa.

3. It challenges your body. “When exercising on ever-changing outdoor terrain, your body is more challenged than when it is working out on a flat indoor surface, Norvell said.

4. It provides mental relief. Many people feel tension about working out, losing weight and lowering blood pressure, Normal said. “Outdoor exercise is enjoyable and feels more like play than a chore.

5. You can turn it into a social outing. “Exercise can become a lot more fun if you involve family and friends,” Norvell said. “Instead of meeting a friend for lunch or coffee, consider going for a walk. Or, take the family outdoors after dinner and walk together in a park, instead of watching television.

6. It’s free. All you need to get a great work-out is a safe, well-lit park, track, neighborhood or walking trail, and your body weight. No gym membership required!

7. It can be a team-building experience. “There are many recreational sport leagues for adults, such a pickleball or softball.

“I encourage adults to take up some form of regular exercise, even if you feel you are not an athlete,” Norvell said. “Joining a team can help a person stay consistent on exercise, and bring back the feelings you had as kid playing outside. Unlike school sports, no athletic ability required.’

What you need to get started:

• Sun protection. Some cancer treatments can increase one’s light sensitivity, so be sure to wear SPF, sunglasses and a hat, no matter your skin tone, Norvell said. If you ever start feeling unwell, seek shade and water.

• Supportive walking or running shoes. “Good shoes protect the entire body from injury.

• Water. A good rule of thumb: Sip 4-6 ounces of water every 15-20 minutes when outside in the heat.

Outdoor cardio routine

Walking outdoors is a great cardiovascular workout, especially for those new to exercise. Here’s how to get started:

1. Determine your distance and route, such as two laps around the track at your local park each Sunday.

2. Increase your speed. Each week, time yourself and try to walk your lap faster than you did the week before.

3. Once you’ve bumped up your speed, add another lap to walk a bit longer.

4. Add some interval training. If you are looking for more intensity after a few weeks or you are short on time, add a few jogging intervals to burn more calories and increase your heart weight. One idea: Jogging in place for a minute and walking for two minutes.

5. Add some strength training moves. After 20 minutes of walking, stop and do 20 squats.

Outdoor strength training routine

Body weight exercises increase your strength and muscle tone, which helps the body in various ways, Norvell suggests a 20-minute circuit:

1. Warm-up. March in place for 3-5 minutes.

2. Dynamic stretching: This type of stretching uses movement to activate and warm up muscles. Avoid holding or bouncing your stretches before the body is warmed up. “This is like pulling on a frozen rubber band, it will snap easily, Norvell said. Instead try 20 knee hugs on each side, or knee circles to lubricate your joints.

3. Squats: Perform 20 squats. If you can’t do a full squat, try sitting down on a park bench and then standing up 20 times.

4. Push up: Perform 10-12 push-ups with knees on or off the ground.

5. Triceps dips: Using a part bench, do 10-12 dips to work the back of your arms.

6. Front leg raises: Alternate lifting one leg straight in front of you to work your abdominal muscles without having to lie on the ground. Do 10-12 raises on each side. Use a bench or tree for support.

7. Starting again with squats, repeat this sequence five more times, or for a total of 20 minutes.

8. Add a cool-down lap around the park or neighborhood.

“Outdoor exercise is so beneficial because it gives you a lot of variety, sunshine and stress relief, helping you feel great, Norvell said.

According to the State of Iowa, the state’s park system offers an outstanding array of parks within its 83 state parks and recreational areas. Nearly 53,000 acres of public land are available for activities ranging from sight-seeing and hiking to camping, picnicking and swimming.

We are extremely lucky to live near Scott County Park, one of the prettiest of its size in Iowa.

It’s not totally corn or bean fields, folks!

Easter is April 20 this year, and according to the Faith at Work network, early Christians did not necessarily view Christmas at the most holy and important day of the year.

Instead, they viewed Easter as the most important date for all Christians. There were church councils and treatises on the topic of Easter and questions on why it does not have a standing date, as Christmas does.

According to CountryLiving.com, the Easter date varies from early March to about April 25. (Hence, it’s pretty late this year.) It is traditionally observed on the first Sunday following the initial full moon after a vernal equinox, with the timing determined by specific tables aligned with the Gregorian calendar in Wester churches, and the Julian calendar in Orthodox churches.

It is also known as Easter Sunday, of course!

Christianity Today explains that the word “Easter” does not properly occur in Scripture, although the King James version of the Bible places the word in Acts12:4, where it stands for “Passover.”

There is no trace of Easter celebrations in the New Testament, but some might see similarities in 1 Cornithians 5:7. The Jewish Christians in the early church continued to celebrate the Passover, regarding Jesus Christ as the true Paschal lamb, and this naturally passed over into a commemoration of the death and resurrection of our Lord, or an Easter feast.

The report in NationalToday.com, that while the holiday has Christian roots, it has also become popular in secular society for its other elements, like the Easter bunny and Easter eggs.

Many parents may remember — or have records — after taking their children on Easter Egg hunts. Personally, I recall trying to find an Easter event where my daughter would not be trod upon by other, bigger kids. That was a challenge!

Real Simple, which is a Meredith Company (Des Moines, Iowa) publication, explains that while the holiday has Christian roots, it is also popular in secular society for its other elements, like the Easter bunny and Easter eggs.

Ever wonder where the Easter Bunny tradition came from, or what the word Easter even means? Brush up on the origin stories of common Easter traditions before this year's holiday.

Easter, again, is deeply religious for Christians and it falls in the spring. I don’t know about you, but the holiday date often creeps up, unexpectedly.

That said, it celebrates the day Jesus rose from the dead, three days after the Crucifixion, Like other religious holidays (Christmas!) Easter has become more commercial over the years.

It features chocolate rabbits, decorated Easter baskets, and colorfully dyed eggs. Of course the Easter bunny drops off gifts and treats which the children enjoy on Easter morning!

But how did these Easter traditions evolve?

As you now know, Easter is April 20, 2025 this year. It’s almost a full month later than last year, which was March 31, 2024. It’s a movable feast, as the date changes yearly. Next year it is April 5, 2026.

The word “Easter” likely derives from Eostre, an Anglo-Saxon pagan goddess of spring and fertility. According to folklore, Eostre found a bird dying in the cold, and turned it into a rabbit so its fur would keep it warm. But, the rabbit would still lay eggs, as a bird does.

Other experts claim that Easter most likely comes from the Old High German word, Eostarum, which originates from the Latin term for Easter week, in albis, loosely meaning “dawn.” In other languages, like French, the word for Easter comes directly from the word for Passover, the Jewish holiday that occurs at about the same time. This year, that is April 12-20.

Lent, as another example, is a 40-day period when many Christians engage in preparation for the celebration of Easter through fasting, prayers and acts of charity. These sacrifices and good deeds are meant to show penance for the sins committed.

While early Christians generally had strict fasting rules during Lent, modern Christians tend to give up some item, like alcohol or social media, and avoid eating meat on Fridays during Lent.

This year, Lent started March 5, and ends on Holy Thursday, which is April 17 this year. Some call this day “Maundy Thursday, and there is also Holy Saturday, or Easter Eve.

The story about Eostre set the basis for the Easter Bunny, going “hippity-hoppity down the Bunny trail with eggs and treats for children.

Easter eggs, on the other hand, represent new life, such as in the spring and during Resurrection. Dying Easter eggs may have a deep religious connection: One theory regarding Easter Eggs involved Mary Magdalene, the first person to see Jesus after Resurrection. As the story goes, she was holding a plain egg in the presence of the Emperor and she proclaimed the Resurrection of Jesus at that time.

The emperor said that Jesus’ rising from the dead was as likely as an egg turning red, which happened as he was still speaking.

This year, the Avian bird flu has made eggs more expensive across the country.

Easter Egg Hunts may trace back to 16th century Germany. Protestant reformer Martin Luther, as the reformer is said to have organized egg hunts for his congregation.

The exact history is murky but today’s Easter Egg hunts, whether at home or at parks or other places, is one of the most fun traditions of the holiday.

Robin Knowles Wallace, author of “The Christian Year: A Guide for Worship and Preaching, said there it is difficult to share big issues in age-appropriate ways, such as lighthearted symbols of eggs and rabbits.

Easter chocolate began in 19th century France and Germany, and soon spread to the rest of Europe and eventually, the United States, said Katharine Tegan, author of “The Story of the Easter Bunny.” To receive special Easter eggs, children were told to make nests from hats or baskets so the Easter Bunny could leave them there.

A typical Easter food is lamb, which may be because Jesus referred to the “Lamb of God” in the Scriptures, according to Encyclopedia Britinnica, and because the lamb has a long history as a sacrificial animal in ancient Egypt.

Easter Lilies (Lilium longiflorum) adorn many houses and churches this time of year. The lilies are actually native to Japan and were introduced to the United States in the 19th Century. The Bible makes many references to lilies and they have long been associated with purity and rebirth, connecting them to the idea of Jesus and the Resurrection.

Peeps, the marshmallow candy marketed at Easter time has been around for more than 70 years. It’s made by the same company that makes Mike & Ike’s, which was founded in the early 20th century by Sam Born, a Russian Jewish immigrant. In the 1950s, his company acquired Rodda Candy Co., which invented Peeps. At the time workers were making the Peeps by hand and a single one could take 27 hours to create. Just Born streamlined the process to make them widely commercially available.

While anger at the administration of the U.S. President is growing it also includes some well-read outspoken activists who on Monday visited the offices of three Republican representatives, located in downtown Davenport.

According to Jacqueline M. O’Donnell, and others, attempts to downsize such areas as Medicaid and Medicare will be very difficult for Iowans.

Further, the concern regarding Senators Charles Grassley and Joni Ernst as well as U.S. Representative Marionette Miller-Meeks, was that the Iowa representatives are paying more attention to activity in the nation’s capitol than what is needed at home in Iowa.

The complaints were handled by younger adults in the offices of Grassley, Ernst and Miller-Meeks, all of whom were diplomatic.

Joe Krenzelok, district director for Miller-Meeks, said her schedule is busy in Washington, D.C., but she does hold town meetings as time allows.

A report in the newspapers was brought up: Miller-Meeks was expected at a town hall event in Iowa recently and she unexpectedly canceled her appearance. This was a topic brought up several times on Monday.

Others — such as O’Donnell — noted the three GOP representatives are supposed to be representing Iowans, but the crowd agreed that none of the three were particularly responsive.

Other charges were that the way to contact the representatives is basically online and bulky — not so easy to do, they said.

For example, some of the older attendees reported on Monday that there is no way, now, that they can easily find help from the Social Security offices, and there are many people who have no means to find help in alternative locations like in Des Moines, Iowa.

Medicaid is used by some 700,000 Iowans. This program supports children, pregnant women and persons with disabilities. According to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, it is funded to the tune of $6 billion.

The Guardian newspaper reports that activists across the country are reacting with passion and determination. For example, in Colorado, a portrait of the president was removed after he complained, “it was the worst picture of me, ever.”

The Salt Lake Tribune reports on its editorial page that political leaders such as Bernie Sanders are setting records in political rallies. “Many Americans are reaching a breaking point,” the writers wrote.

America’s angriest presidents — according to the Baltimore Sun — are Donald Trump, Richard Nixon and Andrew Johnson. All three, the Sun reports, have grievous dispositions and, it is noted, most presidents might be angry at times, but their public presentation is of a sunny, up-beat mood.

Presidential disposition matters, especially to voters.

In a related matter, The Brookings Institute reports that many Americans are now worried the current administration will dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.

U.S. President Jimmy Carter (1979) started the Department of Education and it is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

It is now under attack, and to many Americans who value the quality of education in places like Iowa — and other states — this is close to a catastrophe. It seems, logically, that more public money to school districts would be in the best interest of all Iowans as one example.

However, it is also reported that lawsuits and stays of action have been entered in local courts in an attempt to halt the current attempt to dismantle the U.S Department of Education.

Nonetheless, the U.S. mood remains fairly glum. A study from Pew Research reports that almost 70 percent of Americans say money in politics is a “very big problem” in this country.

The disposition of a president does matter. It is reflected in the views of the people and many folks naturally follow a charismatic or caring leader, it seems.

Happy First Day of Spring! Yep, it’s spring in North America, and this is a important day for many. In Iowa today it’s 42 degrees and a little windy, but the sunshine is very appreciated!

Spring is on the calendar in North America today and that’s where we are, especially in the Midwest and Iowa.

According to Better Places Forests.com, Spring is a compelling season for many reasons. The Website lists 10 good properties of Spring:

1. This is a warmer time of year, finally. Many people tend to stay indoors, seeking warmth and comfort in the winter months. Wind, snow, sleet, can all be off-putting.

That is why so many of us appreciate Spring as one of the best seasons. It’s high time to put away the heavy jackets and scarves and boots and headgear. The warmth of spring makes it easier to enjoy life, outdoors.

2. Spring is a good season because of the longer days; once Daylight Savings Time begins, it feels like there are more hours in the day to appreciate nature.

For those with jobs, it’s a welcome change to come home to enjoy evening walks, outdoor playtime with the kids and other activities of interest.

3. Sunshine is much more likely this time of year. The sunny rays break through a gray sky, and the sun feels warm on the skin, but not blistering hot. Sunlight offers a number of benefits, including helping the body produce Vitamin D, improving sleep patterns and boosting levels of serotonin levels in the brain.

4. Wildlife! Spring brings the return of animals that hibernate or migrate during the winter. The birds are happily chirping (I can hear them right now in fact!) It’s also a season of new life, with baby rabbits, deer or other critters seen during nature walks.

5. It’s a great season for seasonal produce. Today, we have stocked our refrigerator with blueberries, black berries. tiny tomatoes and grapes. The prices are decent, so far, and pretty soon we’ll be able to find apricots, and other delicious produce, often at decent prices.

6. Many people think of “spring cleaning” during the warmer, tamer days. It’s a great time to get organized before summer activities and travel begins. There’s value in getting your space in order.

7. Warmer weather often means there is more fresh air in the home and it’s a great way to chase out the sometimes unhealthy air that fills some homes in the winter season. And, who doesn’t enjoy opening windows to enjoy the sounds and smells of spring? It’s hard not to smile when you hear a bird sing or smell flowers in bloom.

8. Flowers are popping up, and there’s an amount of wildflowers in season. It’s soon to be cherry blossom season in Washington, D.C., and those delicate flowers will soon be in full bloom. In addition to smelling good and being pretty, flowers are what nourish bees and birds, an important part of the ecosystem.

9. Trees, which go dormant in the winter, showcase new growth in spring. Whether you are outdoors in a park or looking out a window (I can see birds eating happily at filled bird feeders, and a pretty blue lake surrounded by attractive homes.)

The rebirth of trees, animals and all adds joy to the season. Don’t you think?

10. Spring is also perfect for outdoor activities. Go on a picnic, take a long walk to play your favorite sport. It’s an ideal time to experience the beauty of the outdoors, not too hot and certainly not too cold!

The Spring Equinox started this morning at about 4 a.m. Many of us were sleeping at that moment, but what a great time to enjoy life!