Rio Lohman always felt a competitive spirit. Sports. Academics.  Even at home, “I always wanted to be the best child to my parents. They have given me a great head start in life and help…

When Abigail Meiwes thinks back on her childhood, she remembers the books. Rows and rows of books.  “My mom turned a whole wall of our house into a library. And so there was a lot…

Kalibre Smith’s journey to valedictorian at Iola High School has humble beginnings, rooted in his parents’ desires to see him succeed. One of four kids, Smith is the son of Chrystal Brown and Anthony Smith.…

When Iola High School junior Demarco Ross competes in forensics, he’s hungry. Yes, that’s a metaphor, Ross admits. It’s also literal. Food makes him feel tired; he wants to be energized. He needs that empty…

Fairview Chapel is experiencing a renaissance of sorts. The small chapel, located 2 miles east of Mildred on West Virginia Road, has sat largely vacant over the decades. Recently, members of the Methodist churches in…

Allen Community College gave Tomas Hoppough something just as valuable as an education: An opportunity. “As a young adult, not many places or people took chances on me. Allen did,” Hoppough told the 2024 graduates…

Iola Elementary School students won a chance to serve as Principal and Superintendent For the Day. Students who sold carnival raffle tickets were entered into a drawing for the opportunity. Students visited teachers and staff…

After hitting a snag to significantly expand sewer capabilities at the Allen County Airport, county commissioners welcomed a reduced price tag and an extended deadline to get the project rolling. Commissioners awarded the project to…

Joe Darren Stotler had no warning that his living situation was about to drastically change over the weekend. “I’m really good about watching the weather,” he said. At midnight Saturday, he walked down to check…

GAS — Every Saturday night, visitors travel to Gas from near and far to hear songs of worship and praise. They aren’t going to a church, though. At the Lighthouse Music venue at 1001 W.…