Workers, productivity behind C.R. smells

I was born and raised on the southwest side of Cedar Rapids across from the Czech National Cemetery. I still live and work on the southwest side.

With regard to the Feb. 1 article “Scents of place,” let's not forget all of the workers and productivity that came out of the facilities that are “noted for their smells.” Don't we wish we had the productivity and vibrancy of the city of the past? Whatever the criticism of the smells of productivity, let's not forget how much it contributed to the livelihood of so many residents who worked and paid their taxes to develop our community.

I wish we could have all of the “scents of productivity” rather than the stagnation and discussion as to what to do about limiting manufacturing and the growth of our community.

Many people are beginning to believe the only “bad scents” are the divisive politics that seem to permeate from a small group and unfortunately all the way up to the national level of bickering.

Let's work for progress and figure out a way to bring back the scent of productivity, job creation, and a better Cedar Rapids.

Bill Aossey

Cedar Rapids