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That was my grandfather’s boat

“Hey there. In the last edition of the Lake Panorama Times (May 2026), you had a photo of an old unknown boat. That was the boat of my grandfather, Bob Milligan, and that was my dad, John Milligan, fixing the engine.” – Chris Milligan

You forgot…

“Shane, you forgot: clutch, 3 on column stick shift and a few of those ‘push button’ drive selectors that were on Chrysler products (The car features we miss, May 22, 2026).” – Mike Simpson

Take the pledge to adopt pesticide-free practices 

“As warmer weather draws us outdoors, our shared parks and green spaces help build stronger communities, but what’s being sprayed on these spaces may be putting that same community at risk. Pesticides have been linked to harmful health effects for people and pets alike, especially children. The American Academy of Pediatrics has stated, ‘Pesticide exposure in children should be limited as much as possible.’ Research has linked exposure in children to several serious health concerns, including neuro‑behavioral disorders, certain types of childhood cancers, birth defects, endocrine or hormonal disruptions, and asthma. Our pets face risks as well. Studies show that exposure to lawn chemicals is associated with higher rates of bladder cancer and lymphoma in dogs. Active pets can also track residues indoors on their paws and fur, increasing exposure inside our homes. For adults, long-term pesticide exposure has been linked to respiratory issues, hormone disruption and cognitive decline. Beyond human health, these chemicals can harm water quality and damage beneficial insects and birds that support healthy ecosystems.

Our public spaces should not compromise community health. Safer alternatives exist. Organizations like Good Neighbor Iowa provide resources and promote pesticide-free practices. Their pledge to be pesticide-free (goodneighboriowa.org/pledge) has already been adopted by residents, schools, and parks across the state. I encourage readers to take the pledge and urge local leaders to adopt pesticide-free practices, so our shared spaces can truly support a healthier, more connected community.” – Jordan Holloway

Can you moonwalk?

“If you wear one glove while handling fish, you would need to be able to moonwalk properly (Bullheads and bruised egos, Guthrie Center Times, May 2026). Any sequins on that glove?  Good story.” – Christopher Stipe

I just so happen to have one sequined glove from one of my better Halloween costumes, and now I know exactly how to put it to good use. And, yes, I can do the moonwalk. Kind of. – Shane

Always two sides

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Extremely insensitive and not something to celebrate 

“In the April issue (Guthrie Center Times, April 2026), you celebrated the killing of an innocent buffalo 50 years ago. This is extremely insensitive and is not something to celebrate. These people should be ashamed of not finding a more humane way to assist the animal. Shame on you for posting it as something to celebrate as a success.” – Kelsey Storey Eischeid

Editor’s note: This was not something we “celebrated,” but it is a piece of local history that was published 50 years ago. Like much of history, there will be some things people agree with and some things people don’t.