With Easter behind us and warmer weather seemingly here to stay, I’m declaring Old Man Winter dead for the next seven months. This is the printed word and official now; no going back.

What a bearcat the last four months have been. Early outs, snow days and canceled events became the norm as storm after storm rolled through the state on repeat. Still, it could be worse – Iowans who reside south of here can attest to that.

Spring brings with it a sense of renewed optimism. The sun is shining and the birds are singing, which is enough to put a smile on most folks’ faces after the bitter...