Wednesday Morning Read: Ellis Boulevard extension, fireworks legalization advances, Blum no on AHCA

ELLIS BOULEVARD EXTENSION? - A short but potentially transformative extension of Ellis Boulevard NW is on the table in Cedar Rapids. The extension would connect Ellis, which ends in a 'T” intersection at E Avenue NW, through the MidAmerican Energy property at 602 D Ave. NW to the north end of Sixth Street NW, which ends at the railroad tracks. Read more: https://www.thegazette.com/government-politics/ellis-boulevard-extension-in-the-works-in-cedar-rapids/

FIREWORKS LEGALIZATION ADVANCES - Fireworks enthusiasts launched their effort Tuesday to bring legal pyrotechnics to Iowa on a limited basis, lighting up the Senate's vote display board with 34 green lights that were enough to propel the measure to the House. The measure would allow licensed retailers or community groups to sell consumer-grade fireworks to adults in permanent structures between June 1 and July 8 and between Dec. 10 and Jan. 3. It also places time restrictions for the display of fireworks. Read more: https://www.thegazette.com/government-politics/senate-votes-to-legalize-fireworks-in-iowa/

BLUM NO ON OBAMACARE REPLACEMENT - U.S. Rep. Rod Blum on Tuesday finally took a side on legislation put forth by the House Republican leadership on the repeal and replacement of the Affordable Care Act. The American Health Care Act 'doesn't do enough to lower premiums for hardworking Americans. I'm a ‘no' on current version - need to drive down actual costs!” the Republican representative of Iowa's 1st district tweeted Tuesday afternoon. Read more: https://www.thegazette.com/government-politics/blum-says-hes-a-no-on-obamacare-replacement-bill/

IOWA OFFENSE DEPENDS ON PERSONNEL - The big point of interest for Iowa football this spring is new offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz. Right here, right now, you're interested in what Ferentz will do with Iowa's offense. And right now, there's no clear answer. Read more: https://www.thegazette.com/sports/personnel-will-dictate-what-iowas-new-offense-is-or-isnt/

QUOTABLE - 'Literally, I was dead 108 days ago. It's wonderful and fantastic to be able to thank everybody.” Dan Clarahan, 59, of Greenleaf, Wis., who returned to Cedar Rapids Tuesday to thank those responsible for saving his life after he suffered a heart attack while driving on Highway 30 last December