To the Editor, As more frequent extreme weather events pose a threat to aging infrastructure or cause power outages, more homeowners are looking for ways to improve their energy security. One Nebraska homeowner, Eric Williams, has built a system that allows his home to function as a small-scale “nano grid,” capable of running independently from the… Read More

By Ruth Koehler Special to the Dispatch Young cousins and best friends.  Mary and Ruth enjoyed being together whatever the season or the reason.  Today was a beautiful summer day at Ruth’s family farm. After having a delicious lunch of Tina’s white rice and Finnish flat bread, they were ready for some action. “Delicious!” they exclaimed to… Read More

By Bev Johnson Master Gardener Bunkey was in the boy’s toy store looking for light bulbs when he bumped into one of the seed displays. That reminded him that he needed some cantaloupe seeds. He was just about to look for them when he reminded himself that he needed other seeds too. Rather than doubling up… Read More

The Prairie Spy Alan “Lindy” Linda I am looking south through the large glass windows of this house. Large glass windows that I installed 40-plus years ago because of winter. And the heat loss in the winter through those large windows? Lots, but how wonderful it is to sit here and see the world out there, as… Read More

Ask A Trooper Sgt. Jesse Grabow Question: I was just talking with someone the other day and they were telling me they had their driver’s license suspended for too many speeding tickets. They also mentioned other ways a person can have their license suspended that I was not aware about. Can you write about that?   Answer: Your… Read More

The family of Joseph Hofmann wishes to express their sincere thanks to Hadley House for the wonderful and caring care they gave to Joe. To Knute Nelson Hospice Care for the comforting care they offered Joe at the end of his life. To Schoenebergers for their comforting services. Very much appreciated. Sister, Alice Lex; Nieces, Nephews, Great… Read More

By Bev Johnson Master Gardener Everybody loves sugar maples – the beautiful fall color, the light dappled shade, and their spreading shape. Unfortunately, they do best in the cool shaded edge of the woods, not in the middle of the yard, in the full sun where they are usually planted.  Our hotter and often drier summers… Read More

Ask A Trooper Sgt. Jesse Grabow Question: I have seen numerous times where a bicyclist will not stop at a stop sign, if they are sharing the road with automobiles.  I have seen a couple of close incidents where the bicyclist is almost hit as well.  Are bicyclists under the same rules if they are sharing the… Read More

To the Editor, Addiction is a chronic brain disorder characterized by compulsive drug use despite negative consequences. The emotional impact of addiction often leads to increased stress, depression, guilt, and emotional numbness. Individuals may experience overwhelming feelings of shame and hopelessness as they struggle to control their substance use despite the consequences. Addiction is not a sign… Read More

To the Editor,  Effective advocacy requires understanding the legislative process and employing strategic communication. Constituents can impact legislation by providing their perspective on a bill and explaining the reasoning for their position. As a former Iowa State Senator from Maquoketa, I served in the Iowa Senate from 2011 to 2019 and saw countless examples of advocacy in action…. Read More