Gomers -- What's going wrong

BUCKLE UP, TEENS: When the University of Iowa College of Public Health observed 3,000 young Iowans in 36 counties to test compliance with Iowa's child vehicle restraint laws, it found that nearly 25 percent of those 14-17 were not wearing seat belts as required by law. Researchers believe teen defiance or the fear of not looking “cool” wearing a seat belt are contributing factors. It seems time to re-emphasize that well-known facts that seat belt use is simple, saves lives and is totally cool.

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CHECK YOUR UTILITY BILLS: The Iowa Utilities Board has received some reports from across the state of local-option sales taxes being improperly added to utility bills for customers outside jurisdictions charging the tax. The board says the extent of the problem is unknown, but consumers with questions should call the utilities board at 1-877-565-4450 and the Consumer Protection Division of the Iowa Attorney General's Office toll free at 1-888-777-4590.

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RESPECT OTHERS' RIGHTS: Protesters who heckled and interrupted Newt Gingrich as he tried to deliver remarks in Iowa City and Des Moines should remember it's neither cute nor clever to shout down a speaker, especially when audiences are listening in order to make an informed decision at next month's caucus. We support the right to protest, but not to disrupt the free speech of others.

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