Category Archives: General

The only poll that counts is the election

Posted on July 31, 2024 by Marty Ryan

Previously published in the Des Moines Register, July 30, 2024, under the headline:  Trump-Harris polls? Wake me up after people actually vote. Results of political polls are jumping up and down like lines on a seismograph Velcroed to the side … Continue reading →

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Uncivil War

Posted on July 4, 2024 by Marty Ryan

Throughout the day, we went about our duties, fulfilling our responsibilities as required, knowing that an attack could come at any time. It was possible for us to move out, but collectively, we planned to stay and maintain our position. … Continue reading →

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Whose Ten Commandments?

Posted on June 28, 2024 by Marty Ryan

Earlier this week, Governor Jeff Landry of Louisiana signed legislation requiring the Ten Commandments be posted in every public-school classroom, from kindergarten through college, throughout Louisiana. Further, he said “I can’t wait to be sued.” In my bedroom is a … Continue reading →

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Hold the mayo

Posted on June 22, 2024 by Marty Ryan

Most people coming to Des Moines want to eat at some exotic, fine, well-known eatery in central Iowa. However, take one of my recommendations for hometown food. Not only has the food been delicious, but several of the following locations … Continue reading →

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Family Food Dysfunction

Posted on June 16, 2024 by Marty Ryan

The third of June is a big date in the Ryan family. You probably associate the date with “another sleepy, dusty Delta day.” As you know, that’s the day that “Billy Joe MacAllister jumped off the Tallahatchie Bridge.” What you … Continue reading →

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Grape Nehi

Posted on May 11, 2024 by Marty Ryan

Like the character Radar O’Reilly on the long-running sitcom MASH, I love grape Nehi soda. Growing up, I hung around a Texaco gas station on the south side of U.S. Highway 30. Highway 30, also known as the Lincoln Highway, … Continue reading →

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