GOMERS

ASH BORER: The emerald ash borer was spotted in Johnson County last week - the 10th county in Iowa to confirm the presence of the destructive pest. Removing infected trees will stretch municipal forestry resources and gnaw away at city budgets, city leaders say. Mayors from 30 Iowa cities are asking for federal funds to help them manage current or expected infestations. They've signed on to a letter to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack asking for help similar to what has been received in other affected states.

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FAKE CHECKS: The Cedar Rapids Police Department says it has seen a rise in counterfeit checks being passed at local businesses and banks. Police are warning people and businesses to be cautious when accepting checks from unknown parties, and reminding those who would be tempted to cash fake checks that doing so is a serious crime.

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RAIN, RAIN: Following such an extended and brutal winter, it would sure be nice to open windows or just sit outside in the sunshine. For many in Eastern Iowa, however, such moments are luxuries as wave after wave of thunderstorms and rain continue to move across the region. What does a state have to do to earn a little sunshine and serenity?