There’s a three-letter word to explain why Patrick Matarazzo agreed to direct the Iola Area Symphony Orchestra. F-U-N. “They’re in it for fun,” he said. “Some of these people have been playing instruments for 20,…

Iola Elementary School’s kindergarten and third-grade classes entertained a packed house Tuesday at the Bowlus Fine Arts Center with a medley of holiday-themed songs.

Judging from Thursday evening’s Christmas program, I would argue that second grade is the best of all. The children were idyllic. Neat as a pin. Well-behaved. And enthusiastic.  Such behavior is learned.  Before the program…

Iola Elementary School’s second- and fifth-graders presented “Christmas at the Movies” Thursday evening at the Bowlus Fine Arts Center. Students took turns explaining the story behind each song before they sang such classics as “You’re…

Iola Elementary School’s first- and fourth-graders presented “Space Case,” a music program featuring a space-and-Halloween-themed skit, followed by Halloween songs Tuesday evening at the Bowlus Fine Arts Center. 

Humboldt celebrated the Labor Day weekend with its annual Middle of Everywhere music festival Saturday and Sunday. The activities kicked off Friday evening with a music crawl around local businesses downtown and a car show.…

HUMBOLDT — When used intentionally, technology can bring people together. This year’s Middle of Everywhere music festival aims to create a fusion of social events, both live and virtual, for Labor Day weekend. The three-day…

Justin Sullivan is “a dead ringer” for Kenny Rogers, according to Adam Michaels, owner of Avenue of the Stars Entertainment. Michaels is bringing Sullivan to Iola for “An Evening with Kenny Rogers,” a tribute concert…

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.…

Kalibre Smith, a senior at Iola High School, recently received a 1-rating for his violin solo at a regional competition in Independence. The 1-rating is the highest score a musician can receive in a solo…