June 2022

Jack Knotts

John Joseph (Jack) Knotts, Jr., age 90, of Eureka, Kansas, passed away May 25, 2022, at Midland Hospice, Topeka, Kansas. Jack was born in Hollywood, California, on April 3, 1932, to John J. Knotts, Sr. and Esther (Dumond) Knotts.

Read MoreJack Knotts

Jack Lee Edwards

Jack Lee Edwards, 82, of McPherson, KS, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 29, 2022, at The Cedars, McPherson. Funeral arrangements are with Stockham Family Funeral Home, McPherson. (website: www. stockhamfamily.com)

Read MoreJack Lee Edwards

Kansas foster children are still sleeping in offices years after promises that would end

FOSTER AGENCIES HAVE SPENT YEARS TRYING TO PREVENT CHILDREN FROM SLEEPING IN OFFICES AND BOUNCING BETWEEN FOSTER HOMES, BUT THE PROBLEMS CONTINUE. TOPEKA, Kansas — Foster children still regularly sleep in offices instead of homes despite the Kansas Department for Children and Families settling a lawsuit by agreeing to end the practice.

Read MoreKansas foster children are still sleeping in offices years after promises that would end

Bridging Generations

The first time I visited Bill Wittenbrink’s home was the summer before I reached 9th grade. I went to school with one of his grandchildren, and I was invited to a small party to go swim at their pond. That was my first time meeting Bill and his family, and he made an immediate impression on me. I had never seen such a special place for someone to call home. The property is beautifully secluded, with plenty of trees for cover. There is a pond that sits in front of the house, and a path leading to a large dock accompanied by a small table and set of chairs. To the far right is Bill’s bridge, resting above the pond.

Read MoreBridging Generations