Richard Pratt's stories

How tariffs may impact Iowa’s economy: UI economist explains trade risks
The national discussion of tariffs has raised several complex questions about the process of international trade negotiations. In basic terms, a tariff is a tax on the import of a good from another country, and is usually paid by the…
Solon sending resolution to county supervisors on proposed housing development
The Solon City Council voted unanimously Oct. 6 to send a resolution to the Johnson…

Jaffray stepping down as United Fire Group CFO
Dawn Jaffray has announced her resignation as executive vice president and chief financial officer of…

Chophouse Downtown offers diverse menu, family-friendly atmosphere
A number of restaurants have opened in or near downtown Cedar Rapids in recent years,…

Workforce Q&A with Kim Becicka
Kim Becicka, the recently-retired vice president of continuing education and training services at Kirkwood Community…
Workforce Roundtable details wealth of employer, employee services
Numerous resources are available from local and state agencies to help workforce leaders deal with…

Filling a high-tech niche
No, Timberline Manufacturing doesn’t make any type of wood-based products. Nor does the company assemble…
Travero’s new Logistics Park facility offers versatile, affordable transportation options
In recent years, small to medium-sized businesses and manufacturers in Eastern Iowa have faced a…

Kingston’s Steakhouse replaces Butcher Block in northeast Cedar Rapids
A new restaurant is now in place to replace the longtime Butcher Block Steakhouse in…

Cedar Rapids council OKs term sheet for $71 million Kingston Landing development
The redevelopment of land just west of the Cedar River in downtown Cedar Rapids took…

Students’ mental health challenges multiplying
The COVID-19 pandemic is most defined as a physical health issue, with its wealth of…
Proposed development near Solon gets initial rezoning approval from Johnson County supervisors
A rezoning request for a residential development west of Solon received initial approval from the…

Developer: Linn County casino would donate 8% of proceeds to nonprofits
Leaders and supporters of Linn County’s Nov. 2 gaming referendum gathered Wednesday afternoon to make…

Aerotek’s ethos: Work hard, play hard
#1 Medium Company Aerotek Cedar Rapids | aerotek.com | 7th time on list Make no…
Private Wealth launches in Iowa with unique business model
The founders of Private Wealth Asset Management believe that area residents seeking financial guidance have…

What’s ahead for working women?
The details vary slightly, but the numbers don’t lie. Politico reported that as of late…