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Make a difference in the life of a child

By Shelby Kaura —-   Last week’s observance of national Youth Violence Prevention Week focused a much-needed spotlight on emotional and physical violence committed by and against our country’s children. Unfortunately, the many factors that put a child at risk of either acting out violently or becoming a victim of violence require constant attention. The [...]

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0617_OPI_Novak

What it means to be an Iowan

  By David J. Novak —-   On a wall plaque in the lobby of Cedar Memorial, Iowa artist Richard Pinney captures the essence of what it means to be Iowan. His phrase, “Get up in the morning, get busy because work is good, do-it-yourself and be good at it,” especially brings a unique poignancy [...]

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This is the scene of a fire early Monday at a vacant flood-damaged home at 1000 Ellis Blvd. NW. (image taken from KCRG-TV9 video)

Neighbors flee homes after 30th fire in Cedar Rapids flood zone

Some area residents suspect arson, meth-making as possible causes

UPDATE: It’s an unfortunate milestone for the flood zone. Monday morning’s fire at a vacant home marks the 30th flood-damaged property in Cedar Rapids that somehow caught fire. The fire broke out just before 3:30 a.m. Monday at 1000 Ellis Blvd. NW, near the intersection of Ellis and I Avenue NW. Three people who live [...]

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Organist Betty Debban demonstrates the pipe organ at Christ Episcopal Church in NE Cedar Rapids on Friday, May 7, 2010. (Cliff Jette/The Gazette)

Sale saves rare Cedar Rapids pipe organ

Instrument will be moved from Christ Episcopal to new home in Dixon, Ill.

The sale of a rare pipe organ built in Mason City more than a century ago has saved it from being dismantled and sold for parts. The Mason City Globe Gazette reports the organ was bought by VIVA! Performing Arts School and will be moved to Philander Hall in Dixon, Ill. The organ was built [...]

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This home, on the 3000 block of 192nd Street in rural Ainsworth, was destroyed Saturday March 31, 2012 due to an explosion. (image taken from KCRG-TV9 video)

Cause of Washington County house explosion still undetermined

Investigators say they're not putting timetable on investigation

Investigators don’t know how long it will take to determine the cause of a weekend house explosion in Washington County. Joe Lestina of the Iowa state fire marshal’s office, said Monday that he didn’t feel comfortable putting a timetable on determining a cause. “Sometimes it can take two days, sometimes it can take two months,” Lestina [...]

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Outdoor deck

Outdoor Living

Plan now for that special outdoor space

Thinking about creating an outdoor oasis where you can enjoy the spring and summer days and evenings? Now’s the time to get started – especially if your dream space includes a new deck.  Create a distinctive design Start thinking about the style, shape and color scheme of your outdoor space. Are your tastes country cottage [...]

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Bring the feeling of spring indoors

Easy seasonal changes can refresh your home

Spring’s new growth and warm sunshine provide inspiration for renewal in our lives. That can apply to the home, too. Pack away the heavy textures and colors of winter in favor of breezy fabrics and fun decor that inspire a fresh feeling in your house. Here are some ideas on how to capture the optimistic [...]

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John Moore installed these wood planks over his garage windows in response to a rash of burglaries in his neighborhood. (image taken from KCRG-TV9 video)

Cedar Rapids neighborhood residents think twice about security after rash of burglaries

Some neighbors say they were lax about security due to nice weather

Five burglaries in about two days — including three along the same street — have northwest Cedar Rapids neighbors locking up their garages. Thieves took mostly bikes and tools from homes near H Avenue NW and Edgewood Road NW, adding up to about $2,000 in stolen items. Some say beautiful weather played a role in [...]

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A "For Rent" sign on Iowa Avenue in Iowa City on Thursday, June 2, 2011.  (Matt Nelson/SourceMedia Group News)

Rent-to-own homes planned for flooded neighborhoods

Portion of monthly payment set aside for future homeownership 39

CEDAR RAPIDS — City Hall’s commitment to build new homes on newly vacant lots in flood-hit neighborhoods may include 38 rent-to-own homes designed to one day make homeowners out of renters who can’t get a mortgage. The City Council last week authorized the city manager to sign an agreement with Cedar Rapids Rose Homes LP, [...]

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Fire crews work on a mobile home that was destroyed by a fire in the Regency Mobile Home Park Tuesday, February 28, 2012. A candle is believed to have started the fire Tuesday night, officials said. (Mark Carlson/The Gazette-KCRG)

Fire destroys mobile home in Johnson County

Officials believe a candle is to blame; no injuries were reported

  IOWA CITY, IA – A candle is believed to have started a fire that destroyed a Johnson County mobile home Tuesday night. Fire crews from Hills, Lone Tree and Riverside were called to the Regency Mobile Home Park shortly before 7 p.m. When they arrived the mobile home was fully engulfed in flames, witnesses said. Hills [...]

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