A real opportunity awaits Kansas legislators. By expanding the limits of KanCare, the state’s Medicaid program, legislators will enable tens of thousands of Kansans to receive health benefits, easing the burden on hospitals and social…

At the request of Kansas legislators, two studies were commissioned to determine the cost of a “suitable” education for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The first study was performed in 2001, the second in…

Washington state leaders let out a huge sigh of relief last weekend when union members voted to accept a deal to produce Boeing’s new 777X airplane.Passage secures 20,000 jobs over the next decade.The eight-year contract…

I’ve considered myself a moderate Republican from the time I was old enough to think seriously about such things.Nowadays I don’t know what to call myself. By standards espoused by the ultra-conservatives, I’m liberal and…

When the designer Iris Apfel was asked to give three words to describe her bountiful life, she said, “Only one trip.”That the 92-year-old fashion maven, known for her over-the-top style, could reply in so few…

Congratulations to Allen County commissioners for the decision Tuesday to virtually eliminate a fee for use of the ambulance station by EMS officers.Now that county and Iola ambulance services have merged, it made no sense…

The funds raised by the Moms of Miracles for playground equipment is nothing short of miraculous and a testament to the caring nature of local citizens.In a matter of months the young mothers have raised…

Last weekend, city crews  once again proved their value when water began leaking from a 12-inch main along North Kentucky Street near Strickler Dairy. Iola Water Department’s repair crew was called and started repairs shortly…

Over the Christmas holidays, my sons were in town. Aaron lives in New York City, attending Union Theological Seminary. Tim is in Kansas City, where he teaches high school English. Both continue to read the…

Upon his release from 10 years in a Russian prison, Mikhail Khodorkovsky said he would devote his freedom to help those still, unjustly, behind bars.The efforts of those who worked to free the former oil…