Cedar Rapids is more than front porches or tennis

The Cedar Rapids mayoral forum on Nov. 16 was pretty quiet with safe answers. Near the end, the candidates were both asked what they did for fun, where they went, what they liked. Respectfully, their answers were really safe. Parents’ front porch, play tennis, and quietly the Lighthouse Inn and dive bars.

I think we're talking about the term “third place,” coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg over 30 years ago. After home and work, where do you go and what do you do to connect, relax and see those you care about?

If candidates or others need suggestions, consider the following:

A nature walk at the beautiful Indian Creek Nature Center or one of many parks, even in the winter.

Explore the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, the neighboring Cedar Rapids Public Library, or the Cherry Building to be inspired.

Coffee is all over this city — check out Roasters, Cafe Saint Pio or Brewhemia.

Attend live music or theater, whether at a dive bar, outside or one of this area's exceptional performing arts organizations.

Eat or drink at local favorites such as Lion Bridge Brewing, Almost Famous, Parlor City or many options at NewBo City Market. You won't leave hungry.

Shop wisely at locally owned treasures such as Next Page Books, Sweet Mercantile or Moss.

It's all about finding the love of local where you live. Local goes away if the love isn't there. And don't worry, I love to see my parents or a good dive bar anytime.

Jim Miller

Cedar Rapids