Gomers

DISABILITY RIGHTS:

We share U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin's dismay that the Senate has again failed to approve a long-sought treaty extending protections in the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act internationally. Despite the support of prominent Americans, including former Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole, and groups including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, opponents have denied the measure 67 votes needed for passage.

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CAR THEFTS:

According to Cedar Rapids police, the city saw 21 reported car thefts in October and 19 so far in November. Ten November thefts were reported since Nov. 15, with four last Wednesday alone. And the thefts have occurred throughout the metro. Our cold-weather habit of starting our vehicles and leaving them unattended to warm up is one issue, according to police. They say the common practice is unsafe.

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FIDO FALLS SHORT:

City officials concede that orange remote-control devices known as FIDO meant to keep geese away from the McGrath Amphitheatre and other sites haven't worked as well as planned. The foam flying tigers did scare geese away, but the winged Canadians returned once FIDO departed.

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