The Coffee Shop Is Iowa: A Day in Sioux City, IA

There is a special place in my heart for the community of Sioux City, IA.  An eclectic mix of very distinct personalities - where very little changes like in the movie Groundhog Day.  Yet, you are excited to live each day again because you love the people and their world.  Although "they say" they want to get off the merry-go-round, the do not want to be thrown off by centrifugal force.

The big thing in Iowa is having coffee at the local Pronto gas station, or anywhere coffee is served, with the same group of people floating in and out of their habitual spot of choice.  These are not prearranged meetings, or small groups of people who decide where they are to meet each day to discuss various topics.  It is a place that organically fits the needs of anyone who cares to join the conversation.  The dialogue is always the same, yet you feel closer to them after every conversation.

My conversation in front of Pierce Street Coffeeworks with Noel Avery was the exact same conversation the I had with him most every day for 15 years before I left Sioux City.  Same results.  That was fine by me.  The attitude you must have is like that found in the movie Gran Torino  - you must learn to speak like a man scene.  A slap on the back and complaining about things that will never change - mostly because they really don't want it to.

Lunch with Larry Clausen and Pat Gill at the legendary Milwaukee Wiener House, which is celebrating their 100 Years of Service this year.  The man behind the dogs remembered me - how I like my dogs - like it was yesterday.  Old school.

Went to see Ron and Gia Emory who own and run the Sioux City Conservatory of Music.  Gia also runs a connected restaurant Blue Cafe.  She opened the cafe during off hours, served me homemade iced Chai Tea, and her homemade blueberry pie with ice cream and cinnamon dust.  She is really incredible.  We listened to music and talked about events in Sioux City.  Ron and Gia are some of the best people I know - trying to help kids against all odds.

Went to see Jackie Bates (my former assistant), Heather, and Karen at the Woodbury County Courthouse.  The reunion really effected me emotionally.  I received great support from them during my years working there.

My motorcycle is all cleaned up.  Off to Valentine, Nebraska tomorrow morning.

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