Porch 84

Jeff Fager is joined by Dave Helman and Mike Heaton for a final Porch 84 episode prior to the 2020 election. Jeff shares what he has learned from all the great conversations with community leaders and shares how he would represent Southeast Iowa in Des Moines. They also discuss how to get involved with the Henry County Democratic Party and take one final look at the Democratic ticket on the 2020 ballot.

Former United States Secretary of Agriculture and Governor of Iowa Tom Vilsack calls into Jeff’s porch to discuss the future of the agriculture industry.

In part one of a two part series on Agriculture, Jeff Fager sits down with 5th generation farmer Jeff Olson. They discuss the current challenges and opportunities in family farming and go into depth on the concept of regenerative farming.

Jeff turns the tables around and interviews Mike Heaton about Rural Entrepreneurship. They discuss new models of rural economic development and how state legislatures can best spur economic development.

Jeff discusses mental health with Dr. Cyndi Walljasper. Topics range from the criminal justice system to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health and wellness of Southeast Iowans.

Jeff meets with Martha Wiley, a long time educator and district school board member. They discuss the relationship between school districts and the state government, the local school district’s response to COVID-19 and more.

Jeff sits down with rural advocate Dave Helman. They discuss the benefits and challenges of gravel road living including broad band access, ambulance service and the U.S. Postal Service.

Anita Hampton visits Jeff on Porch 84 to discuss early childhood education. Anita is a long time early childhood education advocate in Mount Pleasant. She founded and operated Grasshopper Green for 20 years and worked for the Henry County Extension office to support child care providers. Anita and Jeff discuss the importance of early childhood education and child care as well as talk about the needs and solutions for more child care options throughout District 84 in Southeast Iowa.

Dr. Sara Ledger and Jacob Dodds, two healthcare professionals in Southeast Iowa, join Jeff on his porch to discuss rural health care.

Jeff Fager is interviewed about why he is running for District 84 of the Iowa House of Representatives and discusses the issues that will be examined during the weeks leading up to the election.