An open letter to all the people of central Iowa:

During this season, we often reflect back on the things and the ones we have loved, and in some cases, lost.

I find myself wondering today, from New York City, do you, the people who live in Tama, Toledo, LeGrand, Montour, Traer, and all the glorious little Hamlets that surround you, realize what you have?

Do you love the sound of crunchy snow, when it’s 12 degrees and blowing? I do.

Do you see the beauty in the places, (some gone now) like “SCUDDERS” MadeRite, and like the frost on a mug of rootbeer at the A&W Drive-up when it’s 93 degrees in August? I do.

Can you smell the Beefburgers on the Bar-B-Q at a family reunion in the City Park in July? I can.

Appreciate what you have, while you have it. Truly, we never know what tomorrow may bring.

To my family, my relatives and all of the wonerful people who enriched my life for the dozen or so years I lived amongst you.

Happy Holidays and a Blessed Holy Christmas.

Lovingly and Repectfully

Keith Ayoub

Brooklyn, NY