Viewpoints

by Rev. Kim Gates

A design engineer and I recently spoke about the need for more workers trained in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in Iowa. He told me that in today’s truly global workplace, students who have not previously considered STEM may be the key to keeping the U.S. competitive. He posed this question to me: “Don’t we owe it to ourselves to make sure that every young person has the chance to make an informed decision on STEM-related careers?”
As the Northeast Regional STEM Manager of the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, I’m working with an advisory board and a number of community and business partners to help students learn about STEM fields so they can make those decisions.

... that my holiday reading included a charge that he has refused to enforce laws which are necessary for the public good.
That he has forbidden states to pass laws of immediate and pressing importance unless they agree with his views.
That he has refused to pass laws that would accommodate large sections of the population unless those persons surrender their right to representation, which is a right formidable to tyrants only.
That he has repeatedly ignored opposition opinions that he is invading individual rights of citizens.
That he has worked his will on justices of the courts.
That he has erected a multitude of new subordinate officials and they in turn have unleashed swarms of individuals whose purpose is to harass citizens and thereby insure their own substance.

by Dick Schilling, Editor Emeritus

by Rev. Ron Pederson

by Dick Schilling, Editor Emeritus

by Fr. Jim Dubert

To the Editor:
It has been more than 75 years since the annual celebration began - June Dairy Month recognizes dairy foods and the farmers that produce them. As June winds down, I would like to extend a thank you to all of our producers in Allamakee County and the surrounding areas.
Dairy farming supports rural communities in every single state. There are more than 47,000 dairy farms in the United States and 97% of them are family owned and operated. With an average herd size of 196 head, that puts more than 9.2 million dairy cows in the United States. Iowa alone is the 12th largest milk producing state in the U.S. with approximately 1,370 dairy herds. We have 14 plants that process one or more dairy products throughout the state of Iowa. Last year, Iowa produced 540 million gallons of milk with approximately $944 million in milk sales annually.

To the Editor:
Lansing Fish Days needs gate workers for the August 7-9 event. Each year as the committee meets, there is discussion about whether or not to continue with Fish Days celebrations. The same people volunteer year after year.  Our small group has worked very hard to bring a new variety of attractions to Lansing.  No volunteers means no Fish Days in the future!
This year is Venetian Night, which makes helpers even more necessary. It’s a busy weekend - everyone has family gatherings and class reunions, along with all the other activities in Lansing.  
Can you spare a couple of hours of your time to help?  Many hands make light work. A sign-up sheet is available at Village Farm and Home (563-538-4884). Thanks to all that have already signed up to work a gate shift.  Please help Lansing Fish Days continue the tradition of a great family weekend!

Debbie Welsh
Lansing

To the Editor:
Last Sunday evening we were camping at the City Park and went for a walk.  While standing and reading the announcements on the Information Board I was hit in the head by a golf disc. It broke the skin on the side of  my forehead, bent my glasses and I’ve had a headache and neck pain ever since.
While I realize it could have been much worse, I’ve still had to incur the expense of a doctor’s appointment and am now on bed rest.
I never for a minute thought the incident was intentional but was disappointed that the person that threw the disc never checked to see if I was ok. Someone yelled “Did that hit you?” and I responded “Yes, it hit me in the head.” They responded that they didn’t see me standing there.
The persons stayed in the trees or corn fields until we left and walked back to our camper.  I think we all need to be responsible for our actions – good or bad.