Opinion

Lifetime of changes apparent with birthplace visit
By Clausie Smith
May 25, 2015
If there is one truth that is constant every day, it is that there will be change. This became evident to me last week when Jean and I took a trip to Garnett to decorate my parents and grandparents’ graves.
Constant campaigning creating apathetic voters
By Clausie Smith
May 19, 2015
There has been a great deal of concern over what appears to be a growing nation-wide epidemic of voter apathy.
Weekend a reminder that ‘all’s well that ends well’
By Clausie Smith
May 11, 2015
Last week, I had a frustrating, busy and in many ways unique Saturday and Sunday.
Reviewing the legacy of a ‘good, but unfortunate’ president
By Clausie Smith
May 4, 2015
I asked some folks who was the president just a century ago in 1915. Only a few knew that it was Woodrow Wilson.
Attitudes slowly changing as awareness of mental health issues increases
By Clausie Smith
April 28, 2015
May will be observed as Mental Health Month, and the theme for this year’s observance reflects changing attitudes.
International tragedy led to lasting local legacy for Boy Scouts
By Clausie Smith
April 20, 2015
Over the decades, several thousand young men have enjoyed a variety of adventures and learning experiences at Camp Naish.
Sweets treats aren’t evil, just overly indulged
By Clausie Smith
April 13, 2015
I know that candy has lost a bit of popularity since it has become one of the “whipping boys” for those who are campaigning against obesity.
‘Dead ball’ no more: homers a more frequent highlight of baseball
By Clausie Smith
April 6, 2015
This is a big week in Kansas City, with the Royals opening the season as the defending American League champions.
Easter a clear favorite for hard-boiled egg fan
By Clausie Smith
March 30, 2015
One of my happiest memories of Easter is the coloring and devouring of boiled eggs.
Confusion remains years after creation of ‘Unified Government’
By Clausie Smith
04:32 p.m., March 23, 2015 Updated 12:47 p.m.
Every two years when there is a local election, there are Bonner Springs and Edwardsville residents who are confused by the ballot.
Birthday brings awareness of technological, societal progress
By Clausie Smith
March 16, 2015
A week or so ago I celebrated my 78th birthday, which officially reaffirms my title of “old goat.”
Dirty politics nothing new, even in Bonner Springs
By Clausie Smith
March 10, 2015
Many believe that angry elections are a modern development and that mudslinging is a 21st century tactic.
Character development key for youngest scouts
By Clausie Smith
March 3, 2015
A couple of weeks ago, I had the honor of speaking to the Cub Scout Pack 3149 Blue and Gold Banquet.
Searching for signs of Spring to end winter blues
By Clausie Smith
February 23, 2015
By the last week in February most of us have had our fill of winter and are ready for spring.