With  the 16-day government shutdown less than one month in the rearview mirror, another looms on the horizon. Estimated damage to the U.S. economy from November’s meltdown is $2 billion.The main obstacle to preventing another…

Word has it we’re in for a cold winter. Area schools will likely cancel classes at some point. The thought of being stranded at home inspires parents to think ahead. Are supplies of hot chocolate…

Kansas for Liberty has issued a 10-point manifesto for the 2014 Legislature.The Wichita-based Kansans for Liberty serves as an umbrella-type organization covering ultra-conservatives including the Tea Party, the Kansas Policy Institute and the Kansas Republican…

Thursday we had a typical Thanksgiving feast — turkey and all the side dishes — with our extended family. Conversation before and after the meal made the day complete.That’s the way it has been around…

I have a cousin whose 20-year marriage has been difficult for 19 years, give or take.They are now into their third week of couples’ therapy. Years ago, they tried professional help briefly, but small children,…

When families gather round the table Thanksgiving Day, chances are they are as much a mishmash as the food.Stepchildren. Ex-spouses. Half-siblings. Multi-cultural. Unmarried cohabitants. Single parents. Don’t be alarmed. Truth is, that’s the landscape of…

Iran’s mission to develop nuclear weaponry has been sidelined, thanks to diplomacy.A rare breakthrough in relations with Iran — the first in 34 years — happened last weekend when six world powers with the United…

Friday night Allen County was allowed to toot its horn.The good works of individuals and organizations were put in the spotlight at the annual Thrive Allen County meeting. The purpose of the dinner is to…

It’s been said a multitude of times, but it still rings true over and over again: It sure is nice to live in a small town where people care about each other.Last Sunday afternoon we…

How to be thankful seems easy enough. You list the obvious: food, clothing and shelter, and then with a little thought, you can go on and compile a lengthy list.I don’t take time to “count…