I enjoy living across the street from Graceland Cemetery, especially when dogs are out walking their humans. My daughter is on the board of directors for Midwest Peke ‘n Chin Rescue, helping with all those small, smooshie-faced dogs with big attitudes. She recently assisted in the adoption ...

As children we are taught not to covet other people’s things. I had cousins who had an electric train setup. I wanted it. That’s coveting. Come to think of it, I wasn’t coveting. I wanted one like it! By the way, I could covet all I wanted but I didn’t get that train set or one like ...

If you are familiar with domestic violence, you know that its effect most often is to ruin your life. I wish I hadn’t just written that. Domestic violence is too often incremental, starting in a way that confuses, then escalating to a point where you are certain it’s time to ...

I love a bargain. Finding something I need at a great discount is a joy. Back when GPS devices were relatively new, I purchased a $199 brand name GPS navigation system for less than $50. That’s a bargain! Our mother taught her kids the art of bargain shopping. It was a matter of survival ...

I was at a gas station recently and bought some really tasty popcorn from a Cub Scout. Having been a Scout myself — Cub, Boy and Explorer — in my distant youth, I had to look into the history of scouting here. I had no idea that Webster City hosted one of the first troops in the nation. I ...

It’s October and this is Pastor Appreciation Month. With regular church attendance in the United States on the decline this observance could seem to be losing importance. As someone for whom faith is important, I maintain it is more important than ever. A survey by the Hartford Institute ...