Cedar Rapids is a kind and generous community

Our family is grateful for our Iowa roots even though many of us now live far away. A recent special occasion reminded us why Cedar Rapids still feels like home. In mid-April, our family's matriarch, Pauline Miller, turned 100. So many people helped us celebrate. Friends, acquaintances and even those we don't know sent birthday cards. The day's festivities included visits from Coe College alumni relations (Pauline's alma mater) and a team from Hy-Vee's Johnson Avenue location (where Pauline has shopped for decades). Family gathered for dinner at Zeppelin’s restaurant and their thoughtful staff made the day shine even brighter. She loved that other restaurant patrons stopped by to wish her well. That evening, Pauline summed things up this way: "It was the perfect day." To all, thank you for your kindness and generosity. Cedar Rapids is a community filled with caring citizens, institutions and businesses. We can't imagine a better place to celebrate a century.

Jill Burcum

Andover, Minn.