The pandemic has been particularly difficult on non-profit groups that rely on volunteers to operate, and the American Red Cross is asking Iowans for help in order to help other Iowans in need. Emily Holley, spokeswoman for the agency's Nebraska-Iowa region, says people who give freely of their … [Read more...]
14 days into the new year, how are those resolutions holding up?
We're two weeks into 2021 now and the experts say eight out of ten New Year’s resolutions are broken by the second week in February. One popular vow is to lose weight. Nutritionist Heather Rasmussen says for Iowans who’ve already cheated, that’s perfectly fine but now, get back on course to … [Read more...]
Exhibit at Cedar Rapids museum features parodies of American Gothic painting
A new exhibit opens this week at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art featuring some of the many parodies of the painting "American Gothic." The most famous work by Cedar Rapids native Grant Wood is considered the second-most parodied painting in the world, behind only the Mona Lisa. Museum curator … [Read more...]
Lot of things planned to celebrate Iowa’s 175th birthday
Iowa will celebrate the 175th anniversary of becoming a state in December of this year and the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs has several things planned to celebrate on the way to that date. Department spokesman Michael Morain says they looked back on what President James Polk wrote in his … [Read more...]
Nonprofits trying to find ways to keep afloat in pandemic
The pandemic is straining Iowa non-profits and their donors with significant drops in fundraising and volunteers. While some groups found new ways to get resources to those in need, other shelters and food banks can’t meet demand. Kari McCann Boutell, president of the Iowa Council of Foundations, … [Read more...]
Record number served in 2020 by state’s largest food pantry
Iowa’s largest food pantry offered help to more people in 2020 than ever before in its 128-year history. The Bidwell Riverside Center served more than 16,700 individuals during the past year. Spokeswoman Alison Hanner says certain items are in constant demand at the Des Moines-based … [Read more...]
Iowa Poetry Association contest now taking entries
If you are a poet and want everyone to know it, the annual Iowa Poetry Association Lyrical Iowa Poetry Contest is now taking entries. Lyrical Iowa editor, Marilyn Baszczynski, says there are categories for kids and adults. She says the one thing they specify in the rules is "no vulgarity." "It … [Read more...]
Digital 2021 Passport released for 12 Iowa Scenic Byways
The Iowa Tourism Office has created a checklist for traveling along Iowa's 12 scenic byways and the so-called "digital passport" provides some discounts along the way. "As you travel the byways, you can check in at various locations along the way," says Jessica O'Riley, communications manager for … [Read more...]
Iowa romance novelist wins national book award
A romance novel written by a central Iowa author is being recognized with a national award. Melissa Tagg's book is called, "Now and Then and Always," and it's receiving the Christy Award. Tagg, who lives in Webster City, says it's a wonderful honor. "It's an award that's given annually for … [Read more...]
Giving a pet as a gift comes with many responsibilities
Iowans who gave their kids kittens or puppies as Christmas gifts last week need to realize it’s vital to know all about the animal’s diet, veterinary care and with dogs, to sign up for an obedience course right away. Lisa Karr, a companion animal specialist, says house-training can be difficult … [Read more...]