There’s a first time for everything, I guess. Got home from work Wednesday evening to find a bird in my kitchen. Followed him into the bathroom in an attempt to chase him outdoors.  No dice.…

The plight of those displaced from the former Crossroads Motel has caused some waves in town. Including resentment. “These people are looking for a handout, not a hand up,” one woman called in.  For those…

Don Erbert hit the nail on the head. “Why is it a person working at a plant in Iola can’t afford food?” the longtime Iolan questioned in his recent letter to the editor. Why? —…

The only thing better than drinking beer is cooking with it. Beer is versatile enough to be used in soup bases, marinades, glazes and, my personal favorite, baking. Today, we’re going to learn about making…

Dear Editor, Thank you for publishing Richard Luken’s story on Wednesday (Homeless in Iola). The plight of the couple who became homeless due to the change in ownership of the Crossroads Motel pulled at my…

Nine area veterans from the Vietnam War remain faceless on the Memorial’s new “Wall of Faces” digital display. Instead of a picture, a Gen. Patton-like drawing of a man in uniform accompanies the soldiers’ names,…

With the primary campaign season upon us, it’s a good time to review the recent Kansas legislative session to see how you think your elected officials fared. As voters, it is our privilege to reward…

In the fall of 1941, Vic Perkins noticed a cute girl at Iola High School. Both were sophomores and before long he asked for a date. “You know,” said Vic, 88, “she’s still cute,” a…

While I realize Memorial Day is a uniquely American holiday, it always signals for me the kickoff of the French Open tennis tournament. This morning is the final for the women, pitting veteran Maria Sharapova…

The allure of small town life will be on full display this weekend. Beginning Friday, the annual Relay for Life cancer walk will fill the Iola square from dusk to dawn. Tables and tents will…