For those of us who have frequented the Davenport City Council Chambers for meetings, the charming, outspoken-but-always-diplomatic "ole lady" wearing all the different fun hats is a familiar face. Her name is Susie Bell, and she is the Republican candidate for House District 86 of the Iowa legislature, running against Democrat incumbent Cindy Winkler.

Susie has been following politics since her youth. A wide variety of issues has piqued her curiosity, and more often her ire. She has campaigned in more grassroots efforts than she can name, but give her time and she will recall key aspects of every one, including their outcomes.

Unshackled by the restraints of traditional CD manufacture and distribution, Yep Roc Records is using the "digital-only" delivery model to release a Halloween-themed compilation for groovy ghouls and boys. Available only as a download through the label's Web site for a budget price, the 15-track Rockin' Bones boasts the exclusive "Ghoulman Confidential" by the Fleshtones, and other tricks and treats from Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys, Robyn Hitchcock, The Minus 5, Radio Birdman, Los Straitjackets, and more.

The Science Station & McLeod/Busse IMAX Theatre in Cedar Rapids has announced its potential closing. The attraction, which opened in 1986, needs nearly $1.3 million to continue operations, and unless a financial solution is found, the venue will cease operations on November 15, 2006. A series of financial setbacks over the past five years - including alleged embezzlement and unpaid pledges - have contributed to the venue's current debt, despite record attendance for this summer's children's programs. The Junior League of Cedar Rapids has committed to a two-year partnership to improve exhibit space, membership numbers, and retention; since the 2001 addition of the McLeod/Busse IMAX Dome Theatre, the Science Station has seen more than 250,000 visitors, with 600,000 people purchasing movie tickets. For more information, visit (http://www.sciencestation.org).

Normally Joe Taylor would be excited about a convention of this size coming to the Quad Cities. This week's National Trails Symposium is even sweeter because it dovetails with the community's strengths.