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Lawsuit against former Gov. Branstand continues, Morningside Branch Library cuts ribbon, 5:32

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Former Iowa Governor Terry Branstad was questioned on the witness stand in a crowded Polk County courtroom today (Friday). Branstad was asked why he called for Workers’ Compensation Commissioner Chris Godfrey to resign after taking office in 2011.

Godfrey claims it was because he is gay, but Branstad disputed that saying he supports advances in gay rights. Godfrey’s attorney, Paige Fiedler (FID-ler), asked Branstad about his actions as governor.

 "Have you ever attended any gay pride event? No. Did you ever send an email to state of Iowa employees commemorating pride month? I don’t remember having done that back then."

Branstad, who is the current U.S. ambassador to China, says he has hosted pride month events at the embassy in Beijing. He says he asked Godfrey to resign after being told the Workers’ Compensation Commission was harming the state’s business climate.

This morning the Morningside Branch of the Sioux City Public Library System held a grand opening and ribbon cutting to celebrate a long-awaited renovation.  About 100 people showed up to take a look at the updated library.  

Morningside Branch manager Jenn Delperdang says the children’s area includes magnetic boards and movable cushions for seating.

“You know we had asked for a way to incorporate something like that.  And so we have a magnet wall and we have different kinds of toys that can be manipulated."

The Morningside branch library now also  has an expanded area for private computer use, new lighting, shelving and seating. 

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