Gomers

SMULEKOFF'S CLOSING:

Although we've known for months that Smulekoff's Home Store is going out of business, it was still sad to see the announcement this week that it's final day of business will be Nov. 28, or 'Black Friday.” It's tough to see the iconic downtown business go, but we're hopeful redevelopment plans will write an exciting new chapter.

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TO THE POLLS, MILLENNIALS:

The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement reports that only 29 percent of voters age 18-29 turned out for the 2010 midterm elections. Turnout among young voters is gradually rising, but not fast enough. We hope more young voters turn out on Tuesday, with many important economic and education issues at stake.

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A MOUNTAIN OF MONEY:

It's hard not to be concerned about the implications of our runaway campaign finance system when you view the mountain of money spent by outside groups on Iowa's U.S. Senate campaign. As of Friday, according to OpenSecrets.org, more than $60 million has been spent by an array of groups, with $43 million spent in opposition to either Democrat Bruce Braley or Republican Joni Ernst. Those bucks buy endless attack ads.

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