The Iola Register, Oct. 6, 2023

Karen Works of Humboldt speaks at a community conversation with Kansas State University representatives and alumni Wednesday, part of the delegation’s two-day visit to Allen County.

K-State talks rural needs

By RICHARD LUKEN The Iola Register

HUMBOLDT — Ask most folks about Kansas State University, and they’ll inevitably point to the picturesque campus in the heart of Manhattan, or mention the wildly successful KSU sports teams.

“It’s a good time to be a Wildcat,” notes Iola native and K-State senior Brody Nemecek.

But in actuality, Kansas State offers much more, notes Tim Steffensmeier,

KDOT tour to clarify priorities

State transportation officials will meet in Iola next week as part of a multi-stop tour to discuss regional transportation project priorities.

The Kansas Department of Transportation is hosting nine meetings in October as part of the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE) Local Consult process. The meetings are conducted every two years. The meeting in Iola will focus on transportation in southeast Kansas (KDOT Dis-

See KDOT | Page A3

KSU’s director of outreach, with a physical presence of some form in all 105 Kansas counties.

After all, K-State’s network of Extension offices stretches from border to border. And that’s not to mention the half dozen research centers across the state, as well as K-State’s outreach campuses in Salina and Olathe.

And the college hopes to build on those partnerships. Steffensmeier and a host of other K-State representatives spoke Wednesday at the first

of a two-day visit to Allen County as part of the college’s “K-State 105” campaign.

“It’s an opportunity to listen and connect with communities across the state about their challenges, their opportunities and about how K-State can be a partner going forward, particularly with issues related to economic prosperity,” Steffensmeir said.

More in-depth discussions held Thursday centered on A

Escape your way to literary fun, games

By VICKIE MOSS The Iola Register

“The coolest library in the world” is coming to Iola.

Iola Reads has picked “Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library,” by Chris Grabenstein, as its Young Adult selection for 2023.

The book offers an adventure that leaps from the pages to the halls of Iola Elementary School and the Iola Public Library. Both libraries have been converted into mysterious labyrinths of puzzles, puns, prizes and surprises.

Events to celebrate the novel are planned until Nov. 9, when Grabenstein will conduct virtual visits with Iola students. Activi- The Iola Elementary School Library has been transformed into Mr. Lemoncello’s Library, based on a book by Chris Grabenstein, and featured as this year’s Iola Reads Young Adult selection. A series of activities are planned to celebrate the book. REGISTER/VICKIE MOSS

See ‘ESCAPE’ | Page A6

Vintage warbird pays visit to Allen County

By VICKIE MOSS The Iola Register

Miss Mitchell, a World War II-era B-25 Mitchell bomber, had a bit of a homecoming on Wednesday.

The Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing brought the plane to Kansas City for a reunion of the 310th bombardment group, then stopped at the Allen County Regional Airport to refuel en route to another event in Wichita.

Miss Mitchell was “born” at a factory in Kansas City in 1944. She flew primarily over North Africa and Italy, completing over 130 missions with no crew fatalities. She went into private service after 1957, then was donated to the Minnesota group in 1978 as a “flyable air frame.”

A massive restoration effort began in 1980, and she took flight again in 1992.

Flying the plane to the Kansas City bomber reMiss Mitchell, a World War II-era B-25 Mitchell

See B-25 | Page A6

The

the

REGISTER/RICHARD LUKEN

bomber, stopped at

Allen County Regional Airport on Wednesday to refuel.

crew, from the commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing, met with local residents during the brief visit. From left, Mitch Bertrand, Denise Edelman, Roger Van Ranst, pilot Chris Van Nostrand, Larry Utter and pilot Matt Quy. REGISTER/VICKIE MOSS

Chris Grabenstein

Obituary

Doris Wilhite

After gracing this world for 97 years, Doris Mae Wilhite (Lassman) passed away on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023, at Anthology in Olathe, her home for the last three years. Doris was born June 16, 1926, to Fred W. C. and Myrtle (Bland) Lassman on the family farm eight miles southeast of Humboldt. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and an active member of her community.

After graduating from Humboldt High School in 1943, Doris worked at H.L. Miller and Son dress factory in Iola and the Boeing plant in Wichita before starting her career as a cosmetologist in 1946. Forty-two years later she closed the door of Doris’s Beauty Salon, her small shop attached to their home.

Doris married Ben Wilhite in 1948 and the couple provided a loving home for their children, Wanonia and Carl, in Humboldt. She was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader, a room mother, and a PTA member. She was a dedicated lifelong member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Humboldt and actively participated in multiple church organizations. Until recently, on the first Saturday of October you could almost always find Doris stirring and serving beans and ham for Biblesta.

The woman was never idle. She enjoyed reading and playing her piano; she volunteered at the Humboldt Museum and food pantry; she belonged to several bowling leagues; she and Ben delivered Meals on Wheels. What really brought her joy was creating — sewing, crocheting, quilting. Her granddaughter Kelli calls the quilt Doris made for her a “Warm Hug.” Her family will remember her fondly every Christmas when they hang their stockings on the mantel of Carl’s home, stockings she crocheted, each one different yet each one special.

In March of 2020, she sold the family home and moved to Anthology in Olathe to be close to her son, Carl – just in time for Covid!

Doris is preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Ben Wilhite, her daughter, Wanonia, son-inlaw Gilbert Elrod, brother Irvin Joseph Lassman, sister Letha Brinkman, infant sister Agnes, several nieces and nephews and countless friends.

She is survived by her son Carl and his wife Kathleen of Olathe; grandson Brian Wilhite, wife Kate Goldhaber and sons Elliot and Anderson of Oak Park, Ill.; granddaughter Krystal Buckneberg, husband Mike and children Aidan, Brooklyn, and Emersyn of Overland Park; and granddaughter Kelli Wilhite, husband Adam Miles and son Matthew of Silver Spring, Md.

Doris Mae Wilhite cared deeply for her family, she found comfort in her faith, and she believed in the importance of helping others in her community, especially those with food insecurity. Doris asked that remembrances in her name be donations to the Humboldt Food Pantry or the City of Humboldt Pound. Donations can be left with or mailed to the funeral home.

Her life was not easy, but she always faced her future with stubborn determination. Her nurturing spirit and her resilience are an inspiration to her family. She will be greatly missed.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Friday, Oct. 13, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Humboldt. Visitation at 10 a.m. will precede services at 11, with a luncheon to follow. Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Humboldt.

Services are under the guidance of Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 N. Forest Ave. Chanute, KS 66720.

Kelly advocates for Medicaid expansion

By TIM CARPENTER Kansas Reflector

PITTSBURG — Blake Benson stood in his hometown’s hospital lobby to deliver economic and health care justification for expanding Medicaid enrollment among lower-income workers in Kansas.

Benson, president of the Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce and board chairman of Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg, said a resolution had to be found to political conflict that left Kansas among 10 states stiff arming appeals to broaden access to health benefits of Medicaid.

Ending the blockade on expansion by Republican leaders of the Kansas Legislature would deliver $11 million annually to hospitals and clinics in Crawford County, he said.

“Expanding health care coverage to more than 1,600 uninsured employees right here in our community would create a healthier workforce and increase productivity while reducing absenteeism and employee turnover in our local businesses,”

Benson said.

Benson said Medicaid expansion proposals offered by Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly and strategies adopted in 40 states, including the four surrounding Kansas, would deliver health insurance under the state- and federal-funded Medicaid program to people who made too much to qualify for traditional Medicaid but not enough to afford traditional private health insurance.

“Folks, these are our neighbors,” Benson said. “They work hard. They’re good people. And, they deserve access to health care.”

Kelly, who has submitted five plans for Medicaid expansion during her tenure as governor, was in Pittsburg for the third leg of her “Healthy Workers, Healthy Economy” tour to ask Kansans to contact House and Senate members to urge action on Medicaid. Her bid to ignite public interest in the issue took her previously to Winfield and Garden City. She expects to continue the statewide tour until start of the 2024 legislative session in January. She said she would

US officials bring migration concerns to Mexico

MEXICO CITY (AP) —

U.S. officials worried by rising migration took their concerns south of the border this week with separate trips to Mexico City by high-level Biden administration officials and New York City’s mayor.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed migration with his Mexican counterpart Alicia Bárcena, as well as foreign ministers from Panama and Colombia, Wednesday. Talks were scheduled to continue Thursday, including a meeting between U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is traveling through Latin America to learn more about the paths migrants take to the U.S. and to spread a message about the realities of arriving in his city.

He was scheduled to meet with a nun running a migrant shelter in Mexico City Thursday morning before heading to the city of Puebla, source of many of the Mexican migrants

who arrive in New York, to meet with migrants and community leaders there.

In a press conference late Wednesday night in Mexico City, Adams said he hoped to “manage expectations” of migrants setting out on their journeys, and to inform migrants that his city was “at capacity” after receiving around 120,000 migrants over the past year.

He echoed a rising number of voices in calling for a larger global response to the increasing number of migrants to the U.S.

Correction

At Tuesday’s meeting, county commissioners recognized Terry Johnson, an employee who retired from the county after 39 years. They also read a complimentary email about Jimmy Skaggs, another county employee who is not retiring. The article incorrectly attributed both honors to Skaggs. Our apologies for the confusion.

“It’s not sustainable,” Adams said at the base of a basilica where people often pray before setting out on their journeys.

“The message of this not being sustainable cannot stay within the boundaries of New York City. … There is a global migration and it must have an international response.” Blinken and other top American officials are visiting Mexico to discuss shared security is-

sues, foremost among them trafficking of the synthetic opioid fentanyl, but also arms trafficking and increasing migration.

The latest round of the High-Level Security Dialogue brings Blinken, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, among others, together with their Mexican counterparts.

present the Legislature with her sixth plan for reforming Medicaid and declared it would be her top priority in the upcoming session.

“The reason I’m so focused on this issue is because by expanding Medicaid we’ll give thousands of working Kansans access to affordable health care,” Kelly said. “Contrary to what some would have you believe, 140,000 Kansans work but don’t have health insurance. Many hold down jobs waiting tables. They work in our child care centers. They care for our seniors. Or they’re in other industries that don’t traditionally offer employee-based health insurance.”

The governor said expansion would create thousands of jobs in Kansas, assist financially vulnerable hospitals and clinics, and allow people to have prompt, affordable access to medical care.

Under federal law, 90% of the cost for expanding Medicaid would be funded by the federal government and Kansas would be responsi-

ble for providing 10% of the funding. Kansas foregoes about $66 million in federal aid each month it didn’t take advantage of expansion provisions under the Affordable Care Act, Kelly said.

Senate President Ty Masterson and House Speaker Dan Hawkins, both Republicans, have argued Medicaid expansion was an unwarranted overreach by Congress that ballooned federal spending and unnecessarily disturbed the health insurance market.

ACC to present concert

The Allen Community College music department will offer its first concert of the school year at 7 p.m. on Thursday at the Bowlus Fine Arts Center. It is free to the public and will feature the Allen jazz band, choir, and concert band. A few pieces you will hear are “On Broadway,” “I’ll Tell My Ma” and “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

Colony news

Colony Christian Church sermon

This week’s message centered on 1 Timothy, Chapter 4, where Paul commands Timothy to teach “these things,” including how the households of God are to conduct themselves based on the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Living in godliness not only benefits you in this life, but in the life to come, too. Al-

though Jesus made the sacrifice to save all, only those who put their hope in Him receive the free gift of salvation.

Paul is serious about Timothy setting an example by his speech, conduct, love, faith and purity. Such commands apply to us as well. Being diligent will make an eternal impact on your life and the lives of others.

Doris Wilhite

Gov. Laura Kelly traveled to a Pittsburg hospital to encourage Kansans to pressure legislators to support expansion of Medicaid health insurance benefits to low-income working Kansans. TIM CARPENTER/KANSAS REFLECTOR

Man brings gun, rifle to Wisc. Capitol

By SCOTT BAUER The Associated

MADISON, Wis.

(AP) — A man illegally brought a loaded handgun into the Wisconsin Capitol, demanding to see Gov. Tony Evers, and returned at night with an assault rifle after posting bail, a spokesperson for the state said Thursday.

The man, who was shirtless and had a holstered handgun, approached the governor’s office on the first floor of the Capitol around 2 p.m. Wednesday, state Department of Administration spokesperson Tatyana Warrick said. The man was demanding to see the governor, who was not in the building at the time, Warrick said.

A Capitol police officer sits at a desk outside of a suite of rooms that includes the governor’s office, conference room and offices for the attorney general.

The man was taken into custody for openly carrying a firearm in the Capitol, which is against the law, Warrick said. Weapons can be brought into the Capitol if they are concealed and the person has a valid permit. The man arrested did not have a concealed carry permit, Warrick said.

The man was booked into the Dane Count Jail but later posted bail.

He returned to the outside of the Capitol shortly before 9 p.m., three hours after the building closed, with a loaded assault-style rifle and a collapsible police baton in his backpack, Warrick said. He again demanded to see the governor and was taken into custody.

Madison police reported Thursday that the man, who was not named, was taken into

KDOT

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trict 4). It will take place at 9 a.m. until noon on Thursday, Oct. 12, at the Bowlus Fine Arts Center.

Those who attend will have an opportunity to share their region’s transportation priorities, hear about more investments being made in transportation and learn about various grant funding programs available through KDOT. The meeting is open to the public.

A virtual meeting is planned for 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 24, on Zoom for those unable to attend an in-person meeting.

Learn more at ike.ksdot.gov

Sherwood Forest fun

protective custody and taken to the hospital. A spokesperson for the police department did not return an email seeking additional details.

“Capitol Police took control of the situation and so it’s over,” Evers told reporters Thursday.

He declined to comment on what security changes may be enacted for him or the Capitol building.

“I never, ever talk about what my security detail does or what they’re planning on doing,” Evers said. “But anytime something like this happens, obviously they reevaluate.”

The incident is just the latest in a series of violent threats against public officials.

Evers, a Democrat, was on a hit list of a gunman suspected of fatally shooting a retired county judge at his Wisconsin home in 2022. Others on that list included Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Whitmer was the target of a kidnapping plot in 2020.

Warrick said no immediate changes to security in the Capitol or for the governor were planned. The public has free access to the Capitol daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. There are no metal detectors.

Above, Mike Marsh, right, is Robin Hood as he duels with Stacie Smail in the Iola Community Theatre production of “Robin Hood and His Merry Men,” which continues at 7 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. Saturday at the Bowlus Fine Arts Center. In the background are Katie Jo Knoblich as Matilda, left, the sheriff’s sidekick, and Rhi Jordan as Maid Marian. At right, portraying Robin Hood’s band of Merry Men (who

Plane lands safely, without landing gear

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (AP) — A FedEx plane skidded off the runway during a crash landing at a Tennessee airport when its landing gear did not descend, but no one was injured, officials said.

Public safety agencies rushed to the Chattanooga Regional Airport late Wednesday after reports that the FedEx Boeing 757 had experienced a landing gear failure shortly after takeoff, the Chattanooga Fire

Department said in a tweet. The aircraft, which had three crew members aboard, circled and then made its final descent and came to rest beyond the runway in a safety area, fire officials said.

Video posted by Hamilton County EMS shows sparks flying when the plane touches down, but officials said there was no fire, only smoke from the engines.

“Great work by the pilot and airport per-

for a community forum on the proposed renovations to the Allen County Courthouse

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. • Allen County Courthouse

sonnel, as well as all responding agencies for their coordinated efforts,” the fire department tweeted.

A FedEx spokesperson told news outlets that the flight from Chattanooga to Memphis experienced an issue right after taking off.

The National Transportation Safety Board said it was investigating the “gear up landing” at the airport.

The Chattanooga Airport closed its primary runway due to the crash landing and said some flight times could be affected, news outlets reported.

Sponsored by:

This event is free and open to the public.

are actually girls) are, from left, Tiffany Hurlock, Shellie Barnett, Amanda Belknap, Amanda Easley, Monica Gayle Wright and Piper Jordan. REGISTER/RICHARD LUKEN

Press

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers

K-State: Visitors discuss economic vitality in rural KS

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Bolder Humboldt’s economic development ventures; enhancing student engagement in higher education; and how collective efforts can tackle the dearth of affordable, quality housing.

The 90-minute session included comments from the audience of 50 or so, touching on such issues as the difficulty rural America faces in keeping its most productive students in their hometowns after graduation.

THIS YEAR is the second for the K-State regional community visits, with future sessions planned in Barton, Ellis, Norton, Phillis and Smith counties Nov. 7-9, in Jackson County Feb. 6-7 and Reno and Sewerd counties March 5-7.

By the end of year two, the KSU delegation will have visited 18 counties across the state.

It hasn’t taken long to learn that regardless of location, certain themes have developed, Steffensmeier said, particularly when it comes to affordable housing, quality child care and rural health care delivery systems.

“All of those are packaged under the larger workforce development issues,” he said.

Fortunately, K-State’s presence lends to the college becoming an even stronger partner near and far, added Amanda Clasen, a community vitality agent for K-State Research and Extension’s Southwind office in Erie. She pointed to A Bolder Humboldt’s efforts to develop home-grown business opportunities as a prime example of opportunities for K-State partnerships.

Tara Solomon, another K-State Extension agent for the Southwind District, noted KSU’s networking efforts can assist communities working toward grant applications or to get information on child care surveys.

“There are some efforts already underway,” Steffensmeier agreed. “There are some wins we can pick up, and the efforts are not just K-State led. But it’s important to understand we’re in it for the long haul. So much of this is five, 10, 15-year commitments.

“This is not a project for a year or two, where we can pick up and say

it’s over.”

THE K-STATE 105 project’s roots date back to 1862, to the college’s designation as a land grant university, which was founded by President Lincoln and Vermont Congressman Justin S. Morrill, to ensure middle class students had access to a quality education.

Up until then, only the most affluent students went to college, Steffensmeier noted.

K-State’s land grant status ensured the college would be a centerpiece for teaching agricultural and mechanical arts to meet the nation’s needs amid the Industrial Revolution.

Fast forward 160 years, and those needs are constantly evolving, Steffensmeier noted.

As such, K-State President Richard Linton has led the charge for the college to partner with communities and counties to become a more effective partner, leading to the regional community visits.

Wednesday’s session

included comments from K-State seniors like Nemecek and Moran native Allison Heim. Both shared their school history, and why they opted for Kansas State.

Heim recalled visiting K-State’s Manhattan campus while she was a high-schooler on various FFA functions.

“It just felt like home,” she said “Every time I was on campus, I enjoyed it. It felt like this is where I’m supposed to be.”

Heim, the daughter of Bret and Angelea Heim, hopes to begin graduate school once she earns

a degree next spring in marriage and family therapy

Nemecek, likewise, has bled purple since he was a toddler. His background in agriculture made Kansas State a natural fit. He is slated to graduate in May with a degree in animal science and a focus on business. “I’m looking forward to going to grad school, getting an MBA, and seeing wherever life takes me for a career,” he said.

WEDNESDAY’S gathering included comments from several attendees of the crowd of 50 or so who gathered at B&W Trailer Hitches for the conversation.

Jeri Hammerschmidt, a housing specialist with First Step Builders in Independence, wondered if K-State could collaborate with communities to develop comprehensive architectural plans, which are often unaffordable for rural communities.

Jim DeGeer, a K-State graduate living in Neosho County, said rural communities struggle because the most successful students often seek careers in larger population centers.

“We educate kids, send them off to college, and we don’t see them again,” he said. “We

don’t have the jobs to bring them back here. … We export a lot of our talent to Kansas City. How do we keep them here?”

Karen Works, Humboldt, who helped coordinate the local get-togethers, noted the cost of higher education is a barrier to many families. Perhaps one solution is to develop “micro-credential” programs where a student may need training for a specific career.

Iolan Carol Crawford urged Kansas State to partner with Allen Community College, a happy coincidence, organizers said, because ACC was hosting one of Thursday’s discussions.

Gary Palmer, a Bourbon County farmer and Southwind District board member, encouraged Kansas State to become an even bigger advocate for 4-H programs.

“It’s a fantastic funnel to get kids to K-State and to help them be successful,” he said.

However, 4-H numbers are dropping statewide, Palmer continued, which warrants a different strategy.

He noted 4-H does not focus solely on farming and raising livestock. The college should promote 4-H’s other educational opportunities.

Jessica Flory, who deals with 4-H youth development programs in Anderson, Franklin and Miami counties agreed.

“The problem with our programming is that it is so parent-involved,” Flory said, while also wondering how the college can reach youngsters whose parents aren’t as involved.

“I know we may not have an answer tonight, but it’s a question I’m constantly asking myself,” Flory said. “If we lift those kids up, we lift the whole community up as well.”

Public notice

Summer has come and gone. With dropping temperatures, will you be ready for winter? We are here to help you stay safe and warm this winter. WE HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED:

Kansas State University communications director Jennifer Tidball, center, visits with K-State students and Allen County natives Brody Nemecek, left, and Allison Heim Wednesday at a community conversation about the county’s needs for economic growth. The conversation kicked off a two-day visit in Allen County for the K-State delegation. REGISTER/RICHARD LUKEN

Jessica Flory, with K-State Resarch and Extension’s Frontier Extension District, speaks at a college-sponsored community conversation in Humboldt Wednesday evening.

Opinion

~ Journalism that makes a difference

Our community has embraced recycling; it’s time local leaders do, too.

What draws us to rural Kansas, and what keeps us here? Ask around, and inevitably one hears a variation on a theme: It’s beautiful.

The rolling hills, big skies, hidden creeks. The way the cottonwoods sound as the wind blows. We may not have mountains, but hey — we don’t really need ‘em.

Such natural beauty is more than scenic. In Iola and Allen County, nature’s economic impact cannot be ignored: our extensive trail system and new state park create unique opportunities for growth.

Simple truths emerge: caring for our environment makes sense. It’s part of who we are. And it’s why now is the time to create a new recycling program in Allen County.

AT THEIR BEST, governments accomplish what we can’t as individuals. When it comes to recycling, the case is clear: volunteers can’t handle the load. Iola’s Rotary Club, whose volunteers since 1995 sustained a community recycling program, tired. The same goes for Allen County Recycling, which has paused its efforts. They are victims of their own success. They also offer a clear lesson: our residents want to recycle, but they can’t do it alone.

As Allen County labors to attract new residents, recycling should be a part of the puzzle. It’s a quality of life issue; increasingly, Americans expect access to recycling. How can we ask future residents to invest in our communities if we don’t do the same? Can we honestly promote our stunning state park and trail systems while we dump everything we produce into the ground?

A FEW things about trash in the United States:

First, we are producing more of it than ever before.

The average American generates about five pounds of trash per day, a 34% increase since 1980. Blame online shopping; over a quarter of all garbage in the United States is packaging and containers.

And landfills are major contaminants. According to the University of Michigan’s Center for Sustainable Systems, landfills were the third largest source of human-made methane gas in the United States in 2020.

That same year, Allen County’s landfill accepted about 12,600 tons of garbage from county residents alone. It goes to figure that if we are producing more trash, and not recycling any of it, that number is bound to increase.

At the same time, Americans are recycling more. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, only 17% of paper was recycled in 1960; that’s jumped up to 68% now. The same goes for glass, batteries and plastic. The number of curbside recycling programs in the U.S. has increased more than ninefold since 1988. The EPA

The graphic above shows Americans recycle now more than ever before. At left, bales of cardboard and plastic stand outside the Allen County Recycling depot north of Pump N Pete’s, 1700 East St. in Iola.

estimates more than 70% of Americans have access to curbside recycling programs, and the American Forest & Paper Association reports 94% of Americans have some kind of access to recycling paper, whether that be via a drop-off center or curbside recycling, up from 82% in 1997.

WITH no group coordinating recycling efforts, the current moment offers an opportunity to start fresh. Yes, there are messy details: who will take the recyclables to Burlington? Who will sort them? Will there be a fee? But that’s what government’s for: to solve tough problems.

Our recommendation is to start small. Perhaps a dropoff center that accepts only glass, paper, cardboard and aluminum. Easy enough to

With our trail system and new state park, Iola and Allen County are banking on our region’s natural beauty to help fuel an economic revival.

How, then, can we ignore the importance of recycling?

sort, and Coffey County’s recycling center will accept the materials.

Allen County commissioners have appointed road and bridge director Mark Griffith, who is familiar with Coffey County’s successful program, as their lead on recycling. Iola’s city council, instead of seeing the county’s gain as the city’s loss, should engage him.

No need to take on curbside service right now, and drop the logistics of hauling totes around town. Open up a drop-off center, and bring in other cities to help operations run smoothly.

Or if that doesn’t fit the bill, hold some listening sessions. Ask residents: would you pay more for recycling? What would you sacrifice for it?

BILL KING, the former director of public works for Allen County, once said the most efficient landfills are those that have nothing to put in them. After 28 years of doing otherwise, we shouldn’t ask residents to fill up our landfill with stuff we can keep out of it. Now is a great time to keep a good thing going.

— Tim Stauffer

“Well, I made history, didn’t I,” Rep. Kevin McCarthy quipped Tuesday after becoming the first speaker of the House voted out of the office. Perhaps the only upside for the nation’s suddenly destabilized legislative branch is that the House of Representatives has a clean slate now; the personal animosities that some lawmakers — including a crucial bloc of his fellow Republicans — hold toward Mr. McCarthy (Calif.) are no longer relevant. And his desperation for the gavel is no longer exploitable. The chamber has a chance to make itself more functional.

Though Mr. McCarthy’s speakership heretofore was hardly distinguished by principled decisions, as opposed to appeasement of his slender majority’s far-right fringe, his downfall ironically came as punishment for a good deed: his surprise weekend decision to shake hands with Democrats on a short-term budget deal, keeping the government open but drawing a leadership challenge from a small number of ultraconservatives. The eight mutinying members of his party, led by Matt Gaetz (Fla.), were angry that Mr. McCarthy committed the apparently unforgivable sin of bridging the partisan divide in the national interest.

It would have taken just a handful of Democrats to keep Mr. McCarthy in the speaker’s chair. But some of Mr. McCarthy’s less praiseworthy actions came back to haunt him. Democrats could not forgive Mr. McCarthy’s groveling before Donald Trump after the

Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, a legitimate grievance he aggravated by opening a bogus impeachment inquiry against President Biden. He refused to offer Democrats any concessions in exchange for their help keeping him on as speaker. Instead, Mr. McCarthy claimed on national television that they wanted to shut down the government. More grace, and less partisanship, might have resulted in a different outcome.

It’s unclear how the House will pick a new leader, though two candidates, Majority Leader Steve Scalise (La.) and Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan (Ohio), have come forward. On the off chance anyone in the House is interested in ending the chaos, one way to do it would be for whichever Republican next takes the speakership to deal with Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (N.Y.), soliciting Democrats’ support and outlining the road forward on the budget as well as on the unresolved matter of military assistance to Ukraine. Mr. Jeffries and other Democrats, in turn, would have to lend at least tacit support — in the form of voting “present” on matters such as the speaker’s election, which would disempower the GOP ultras by changing the math needed to elect the chamber’s leader — without demanding a pound of flesh.

In this hyperpartisan era, that much comity and pragmatism might be too much to hope for. Even less likely, though also in the national interest, would be for moderate members of each party

to assert themselves. Only eight Republicans were reckless enough to vote against Mr. McCarthy; more than 200 others understood that chaos isn’t conducive to sound policymaking; 32 of those are members of the Problem Solvers Caucus, which is dedicated to bipartisan solutions. They come much closer to representing America’s broad middle than does the GOP fringe — or even the rest of the House Republicans. If they were willing to partner with Democrats more often, they could be a more formidable voting bloc capable of sidelining House GOP radicals.

No matter the circumstance, nobody should accept the speakership without more job security than Mr. McCarthy had. To become speaker in the first place, he courted the right fringe by agreeing to amend the “motion to vacate” rule so that any one member could force the chamber to

consider firing him. Whoever comes next should insist that the bar be much higher. The last time House ultraconservatives foiled Mr. McCarthy’s ambitions, during the 2015 speaker’s race, then-Rep. Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) set conditions on agreeing to take the gavel after Mr. McCarthy’s bid fell flat among the ultras.

Getting at least that much right is not some arcane matter but a national necessity. The House GOP’s next leader will immediately face negotiations with the White House and the Democratic-controlled Senate on funding the government, with a shutdown as the price of failure. If the next speaker is not at least marginally more empowered, as opposed to constantly fearful of another ouster attempt driven by online activists or conservative media personalities, the chaos will continue.

— The Washington Post’s Editorial Board

60 Years Ago October 1963

The Allen County Health Facilities Planning Council has recommended a new wing be added to Allen County Hospital, increasing bed capacity from 42 to 56. The council also agreed with conclusions reached in a sixmonth study directed by the Kansas Health Facilities Information Service.

*****

A new rock crusher, costing $62,500, has arrived for Allen County in Chanute and will be first located at the quarry on the Elder Thomas farm seven miles south of the drive-in theater, Charles Burrows, chairman of the board of county commissioners, said today. Allen County will not sell crushed rock to the City of Iola, the county commissioners said. *****

One of the major problems facing Iola is the loss of population in the age bracket of 15 to 34 and the increase of population in the 65 years and older bracket, according to a comprehensive plan for the city completed recently by Butler and Associates of Springfield, Mo. A population study is only part of the report which also includes a land use plan, a thoroughfare plan, a community facilities plan and a capital improvements program.

After McCarthy, here is how to start fixing the House

Former U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-California) speaks during a press conference after being removed from the position of speaker on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023. (YURI GRIPAS/TNS)

A look back in t me.

A look back in t me.

‘Escape’: Author’s work selected for Iola Reads campaign

Continued from A1

ties include reading challenges with prizes, a movie based on the novel and a gamethemed maze at the Iola library.

“ESCAPE from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library” tells the story of a 12-year-old Kyle, a big fan of beloved game maker, Luigi Lemoncello. He enters — and wins

— a chance to spend a night in Mr. Lemoncello’s Library, along with 11 other students. The children play games, solve puzzles and compete against each other to win prizes.

The book itself is a puzzle, too. Author Grabenstein has said the book contains a secret puzzle that readers can decode.

The book spent 111

weeks on the New York Times bestseller list for middle grade novels and has been compared to Roald Dahl’s classic “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Author James Patterson is quoted on the book cover: “Discover the coolest library in the world.”

IOLA’S public library has been transformed into Mr. Lemoncello’s

B-25: Crew visits Allen Co.

Continued from A1

union meant a lot to pi-

lot Chris Van Nostrand, who has a “day job” flying for an airline but spends his free time guiding Miss Mitchell at air shows and events throughout the country.

“The factory where she came from was just across the river” from the reunion, Van Nostrand said.

“I got goosebumps as we flew over and realized she’s as close to home as the day she was made.”

A few veterans who had served aboard a B-25 attended the event, along with “Rosie the Riveter” workers, women who worked in factories to support the war effort.

“We met women who probably touched this aircraft because they worked in the factory during that time,” Van Nostrand said.

“Everywhere we go, we meet people who have a story about this plane. You’ll hear the stories they don’t usually tell. You can just take a step back, be silent and let them tell their stories.”

Piloting Miss Mitchell is a special experience, Van Nostrand said.

“Starting the engine is not just flipping a switch like it’s a jet engine. It’s more complicated. She does it on the ground,” Van Nostrand said.

“The steering wheel is not what most of us would call a steering wheel. You have to balance your brakes and the engine power to keep her where she needs to go, but once she’s airborne, she loves to fly.”

ONLY about 40 B-25 bombers are still flying, and about half are privately owned. The others are owned by nonprofits such as the Minnesota group and typically travel to air shows and fly-in events.

Van Nostrand believes those events offer an important opportunity to teach history to those from younger

generations, such as himself.

“Keep ‘em flying,” he said. “We have to keep history flying, because most of the planes you see like this are going to be in a museum.”

In fact, he said, someone recently told him that if Miss Mitchell’s restoration was any more accurate, she’d need to be put in a museum.

Miss Mitchell flew to Iola with a six-member crew. Mitch Bertrand spent years restoring the plane and calls himself part of “the second generation” of those who brought Miss Mitchell back into flying form.

The original restoration group included many veterans who had piloted B-25 bombers and knew exactly what the plane should look like.

Most have since passed away. That’s why it’s important to have younger pilots such as Van Nostrand and Matt Quy, the other pilot, to

Library, complete with a maze and games.

On Friday, Oct. 27, families and children up to age 12 are invited to see if they can escape from the maze that is Mr. Lemoncello’s library. The maze is open from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

The maze will include a few spooky elements, similar to last year’s Haunted Library activity. Children are welcome to come in costume.

Meanwhile, the Iola elementary school’s library also has been converted into Mr. Lemoncello’s Library. Students can join Mr. Lemoncello’s Reading Club. They’ll receive a bookmark with a list of books found in the story. If they read 10 books on the list, they’ll win a prize.

Middle school students who read 20 books on the list — and find the page reference in Grabenstein’s novel — can enter for a chance to win one of five board games. Board game prizes also will be given away at the

high school and Allen Community College.

The Iola Public Library will show a movie adaptation of the book at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 4, in the library’s meeting room. Refreshments and board game prizes will be given away.

AUTHOR Grabenstein will make virtual “author visits” at Iola’s middle school at 9:55 a.m. Nov. 1, and at the elementary school at 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 9. Deb Greenwall, an

Iola Reads organizer, said the local group could not afford to bring Grabenstein for an in-person visit, so he offered to do virtual visits at no charge.

“He and his staff have been impressed with what we are doing to promote his book to our community,” Greenwall said.

The books are available at locations around town. Read it and pass it on, or keep it for a $2 donation.

Funding for the activities is provided by the Helen Gates Whitehead Trust.

continue the legacy.

“Our pilots have a lot of skin in the game,” Bertrand said, noting the pilots sponsor flights and pay for their training and flights.

“Anytime you see these nonprofit pilots, know they are very passionate about what they are doing.”

WEDNESDAY’S visit to the Allen County airport was not Miss Mitchell’s first trip to Iola.

The old warbird actually has been here a few times before, often as a refueling stop on the way to other events.

Miss Mitchell burns about 120 gallons of fuel per hour and holds about 650 gallons. That means she needs to make frequent stops.

During her brief visit, a handful of visitors stopped by to check out the plane and talk with the crew.

“We love Iola. It’s one of our favorite stops,” Bertrand said.

Inside the cockpit of the Miss Mitchell B-25 bomber.

During Miss Mitchell’s visit, a Shorts C-23 Sherpa military transport plane also flew into the Allen County Regional Airport to refuel from its home in DeKalb, Ill., en route to Arizona. REGISTER/VICKIE MOSS

Lady Red Devils fall at KCK

KANSAS CITY, KS —

The Allen volleyball team dropped three straight sets in a tough trip to Kansas City Kansas Community College on Wednesday.

The Lady Red Devils (119; 3-4) saw the momentum shift in Kansas City’s favor as the matches went on as they dropped their sets, 25-23, 25-21 and 2515.

Lexi Deweese led Allen offensively with a teamhigh seven kills while Abby Altic went for six kills. Isabella Simione also led the Lady Red Devils from the serving line with a team-high 27 aces and Chloe Vargas added three.

Defensively, Allen was led by Jolianys Roman’s team-high 17 digs and Veronica Agostini’s 11 digs.

Katy Harris led the Lady Red Devils with a team-high 8.5 points, followed by Deweese’s eight points. Gallegos added seven points and Altic registered 6.5 points.

Allen heads to Columbus, Neb. to take on Northeast Community College, North Platte Community College and Southeast Community College on Saturday.

IHS unified bocce earns top finishes

GIRARD — The Iola High School unified bocce ball team took home two first place finishes in a meet at Girard Wednesday.

The Mustangs were split into three teams of athletes, which were divided by age and skill level. Every team played two games, competing among over 300 athletes and buddies. Winners were the first team to reach 12 points or the

See MUSTANGS | Page B6

Allen can’t tame Johnson

By QUINN BURKITT The Iola Register

OVERLAND PARK — The Allen men and women’s soccer teams were both nearly shutout in their losses at Johnson County Wednesday afternoon.

The No. 17 Allen women were taken down 5-1 while the No. 20 Red Devil men were beaten 4-1 after the Cavaliers scored three second half goals.

MEN’S SOCCER

Pedro De Silva got the Red Devils on the board in the first half when he took a Patrick Alouidor pass to the back of the net for the 1-0 lead.

“We were dominating possession early and they scored a couple goals before half,” Allen head coach Doug Desmarteau said. “In the second half we had to go get a goal, but we left ourselves open for a counter. We had multiple chances to score another goal but couldn’t.”

Johnson County scored their first goal of the match when Monty Almaliky found the back of the net for an unassisted goal and the 1-1 tie with five minutes left in the first half.

Ryan Masterson then found the back of the net off a Tre Smith pass for the 2-0 Johnson County lead at halftime.

The Cavaliers scored their final two goals in the second half to put Allen away when Jacksyn McIntyre scored a goal off a Jordan Gaona assist for the 3-1 advantage. Almailky then went for his second goal of the afternoon when he toed in another Johnson County goal for the 4-1 lead.

“I was proud of how the guys responded and fought through it,” said Desmarteau. “It’s tough to not lay down when you get down 4-1. We created multiple chances to score goals. When we get in these situations we’re not going to let it bother us going forward. We lost at Pratt and then beat them at home, and the same thing happened here with Johnson

MVJV outlasts

Crest

MORAN —

The Marmaton Valley JV volleyball team outlasted Crest in five sets when they welcomed the Lancers to town Tuesday. The Wildcats came out victorious in the second and third sets, while Crest won the first and fourth sets. Marmaton Valley took a 15-5 win in the deciding fifth set to give the home team the win.

Crest took down Marmaton Valley in the first set, 25-15.

County. It’s not an easy place to play.”

Johnson County outshot Allen in total shots, 18-14. Ayoup Bader led the Red Devils with a team-high four shots while Jose Haboud, Diego Coronado, De Silva and Alouidor each had two.

WOMEN’S SOCCER

Emma Hicklin scored Allen’s lone goal of the match with eight minutes left in the contest, which cut the deficit to four goals for the 5-1 final.

Johnson County totaled 15 shots on goal, while Allen’s Lucia Solanilla Leo made five saves. Allen hosts Central Community College-Columbus next Wednesday at 3 p.m.

Crest’s Kamryn Jones scored a team-high seven points in the first set which was accompanied by Allison Weatherman gong for seven points. Marmaton Valley’s Elizabeth Lewis scored a teamhigh six points in the first set.

The Wildcats then came out on top in the second set, 25-18.

Taylen Blevins went for a team-high seven points for Marmaton Valley in the second set. Jones went for a team-high four points to lead Crest.

Marmaton Valley won the third set over Crest, 25-22.

MV’s Lesleigh Cary totaled a team-high seven points while Crest’s Jaycee Schmidt scored a team-high six points.

In the fourth set, the Wildcats fell to Crest, 2519.

Crest’s Weatherman went for a team-high nine points while Marmaton Valley’s Blevins scored a team-high six points in the set.

Marmaton Valley then dominated Crest in the final set, 15-5.

Lewis helped put the finishing touches on Marmaton Valley’s win when she went for a team-high five points in the final set.

Marmaton Valley traveled to Southeast on Thursday while Crest competes in the Uniontown tournament on Saturday morning.

Kansas State seeks 2-0 Big 12 start at Oklahoma St.

The Associated Press

Most of the focus in the Big 12 this week is on the Oklahoma-Texas showdown, but Kansas State sits just outside of the AP Top 25. A win for the Wildcats against Oklahoma State would put them ahead of the loser of that Oklahoma-Texas game in the conference standings. The Wildcats’ only loss was a non-conference game at now-No. 21 Missouri after the Tigers kicked a game-winning 61-yard field

goal as time expired. Oklahoma State is off to a rough start, and fans are becoming unhappy with veteran coach Mike Gundy after two straight losses.

KEY MATCHUP

Oklahoma State RB Ollie Gordon vs. Kansas State run defense. Gordon took over the lead back role against Iowa State and carried 18 times for 121 yards. Kansas State leads the Big 12 and ranks sixth nationally with

just 73 yards rushing allowed per game.

PLAYERS TO WATCH Kansas State: RB DJ Giddens. The sophomore has rushed for 423 yards with 6.4 yards per carry. His 105.8 yards per game rank third in the Big 12. In his most recent game, he ran for 207 yards and four touchdowns in a 44-31 win over Central Florida. It was the first

KSU | Page B6

Allen’s Wisdom Nkwamba goes around a Pratt defender at home. REGISTER/QUINN BURKITT

Allen’s Audrey Smith goes for a header against Pratt. REGISTER/ QUINN BURKITT

See

KSU’s DJ Giddens scores against UCF. AP PHOTO/TRAVIS HEYING

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By the Associated Press Deepfakes generated by artificial intelligence are having their moment this year, at least when it comes to making it look, or sound, like celebrities did something uncanny. Tom Hanks hawking a dental plan. Pope Francis wearing a stylish puffer jacket. U.S. Sen. Rand Paul sitting on the Capitol steps in a red bathrobe. But what happens next year ahead of a U.S. presidential election?

Google was the first big tech company to say

it would impose new labels on deceptive AIgenerated political advertisements that could fake a candidate’s voice or actions. Now some U.S. lawmakers are calling on social media platforms X, Facebook and Instagram to explain why they aren’t doing the same.

Two Democratic members of Congress sent a letter Thursday to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and X CEO Linda Yaccarino expressing “serious concerns” about the

emergence of AI-generated political ads on their platforms and asking each to explain any rules they’re crafting to curb the harms to free and fair elections.

“They are two of the largest platforms and voters deserve to know what guardrails are being put in place,” said U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota in an interview with The Associated Press. “We are simply asking them, ‘Can’t you do this? Why aren’t you doing this?’ It’s clearly technologically possible.”

social media companies comes as both lawmakers are helping to lead a charge to regulate AIgenerated political ads. A House bill introduced by Clarke earlier this year would amend a federal election law to require disclaimers when election advertisements contain AI-generated images or video.

Washington, (620) 365-1432.

Real news is our business S ll

The letter to the executives from Klobuchar and U.S. Rep. Yvette Clarke of New York warns: “With the 2024 elections quickly approaching, a lack of transparency about this type of content in political ads could lead to a dangerous deluge of election-related misinformation and disinformation across your platforms – where voters often turn to learn about candidates and issues.”

X, formerly Twitter, and Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment Thursday. Clarke and Klobuchar asked the executives to respond to their questions by Oct. 27.

The pressure on the

“That’s like the bare minimum” of what is needed, said Klobuchar, who is sponsoring companion legislation in the Senate that she hopes will get passed before the end of the year. In the meantime, the hope is that big tech platforms will “do it on their own while we work on the standard,” Klobuchar said.

Google has already said that starting in midNovember it will require a clear disclaimer on any AI-generated election ads that alter people or events on YouTube and other Google products. This policy applies both in the U.S. and in other countries where the company verifies election ads. Facebook and Instagram parent Meta doesn’t have a rule specific to AI-generated political ads but has a policy restricting “faked, manipulated or transformed” audio and imagery used for misinformation.

Meta and X questioned over AI deepfakes

A: Ever since CBS’ current daytime version began in 2009. Its premiere there made it a rare series to run on three dif ferent broadcast networks, since the original show – hosted by Monty Hall, also (along with business par tner Stefan Hatos) a creator and producer of it – ran on NBC from 1963 to 1966, then moved to ABC, where it continued until 1976. There also were other editions before the Brady-hosted revival premiered, with NBC attempting it again twice, in daytime with Bob Hilton and (ver y briefly) in prime time with Bush. Brady has earned two of his five Emmy Awards for his work on “Let’s Make a Deal,” and by the time he star ted that job, the idea of comedians becoming game-show hosts had been accepted. Among examples, Drew Carey assumed the hosting spot on “The Price Is Right” in 2007, and Louie Anderson had guided “Family Feud” from 1999 to 2002 (Steve Har vey star ted in the latter show in 2010).

In inter views, Brady has maintained that he never wanted to be just one thing in the enter tainment world … not exclusively an actor nor a comic (a skill he has displayed plentifully on the improvisation-oriented “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”) nor a singer (he was nominated for a 2009 Grammy Award for his cover of Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come”). He also has appeared on Broadway in “Chicago,” “Freestyle Love Supreme” and “Kinky Boots.”

Along with “The Price Is Right,” extra episodes of “Let’s Make a Deal” have been made expressly for CBS’ prime time lineup. That will continue for both shows during the upcoming television season, when they are slated to be seen on Friday nights star ting in November

Ex doesn’t need updates on love life

We asked readers to channel their inner Carolyn Hax and answer this question. Some of the best responses are below.

Dear Carolyn: I've been divorced for a little over five years, and we have two kids together. He fell out of love with me and initiated the divorce. Because of the kids, we are still in regular contact. Things are amicable.

My ex is newly remarried (seemingly quite happily). Since he found his new partner, he is constantly asking me questions about how my dating life is going. The questions are casual and friendly, but I definitely get the impression that he is trying to work through whatever guilt he may feel about having “moved on” (in the clearest sense) while I have not.

I am trying to figure out what information I owe him about my love life, and, generally, what narrative I want him to have. The truth is that I don’t have time to date as a single mom (I have the kids about 75 percent of the time). I especially don’t want to give him the satisfaction of hearing me say that, though. He claims to be concerned about my happiness and how it will

Hax

affect our kids. What information do I owe him about my (nonexistent) love life?

— Nunya Nunya: None, until it potentially affects your kids. By that I mean, until you’re serious enough about someone to introduce them to your kids, your ex has no right to any information at all about your dating life. The next time he asks, I think you should shut it down once and for all. Something like, “I’m not going to discuss my love life with you. If anything gets serious enough to affects the kids, I’ll let you know.” And then change the subject.

As an aside, if your current child-care situation isn’t allowing you time to do things you want to do, maybe you should revisit it? Keeping a divorce amicable is a big effort; maybe it’s time to draw down on that goodwill and find an arrangement that works for you.

— Nina Nunya: To answer to your question: You don’t

owe him any information about your love life. However, the context you provided suggests there are other issues. Do you want him to feel guilty for ending the marriage? Have you really moved on and accepted the end of your relationship, regardless of whether you’re ready for a love life? What are your feelings, and are they at odds with “the narrative” you want him to have? If they are, it is time to work on the part you can actually control — your feelings about the marriage, its demise and the new state of play.

I urge you to spend whatever free time you have on therapy and to think about a custody arrangement that would give you more time to build a new life and a new relationship, if that’s what you want. — Daisy from Greenbank Nunya: “I’m not going to talk about that with you.” And then just … stop talking. What is it with people who want a window into our lives who do not deserve that window anymore? Whether his motives are in your best interest (hoping for the best of love lives for you) or not (feeling guilt or hoping you’re sad and single and potentially

Who benefits from taking statins?

By DEB BALZER Mayo Clinic News

If you’re at risk of heart disease, your healthcare team might use the pooled cohort equation (PCE) tool to determine your long-term risk and whether taking statins — cholesterol-lowering medication — is a good option.

Dr. Francisco LopezJimenez, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist, says it’s important to understand who benefits the most from statins. Statins are medications that reduce the amount of cholesterol

made by the liver.

“Cholesterol builds within plaques that accumulate and grow inside the arteries, sometimes to the point that those arteries will be blocked,” says Dr. Lopez-Jimenz.

And blocked arteries can lead to coronary heart disease. But are statins for everyone?

“The patients that will benefit from taking statins the most will be individuals with history of heart attacks, strokes and other conditions known to be caused by cholesterol plaques,” he says.

Diet also plays an important role. Dr. Lopez-

Jimenez says to eat less processed meat and more grains, fruits and vegetables.

“The most impactful changes people can make to lower cholesterol will include consuming less animal products other than fish, consuming less saturated fat,” he says.

And if your healthcare team recommends medication as well as lifestyle changes?

“Take those medications, check your numbers, be sure that all those factors are well under control,” says Dr. Lopez-Jimenez.

missing him) or the kids’ best interests (if mom’s happy, so are we), what difference does it make? Either way, he gets information about you that he doesn’t deserve. Period. For the record, being in a loving relationship doesn’t necessarily mean you would be completely happy — or that a loving relationship would affect the kids in a positive way at all times. He’s just digging. You’re doing a great job! The love life will happen on your timeline, and your happiness cannot be measured by the presence/absence of some other dude.

— Olivia Nunya: Often, my first response to inappropriate questions is, “Why do you want to know that?” In this case, it’s perfect. Don’t guess why he’s doing this; ask him to tell you. Then tell him why you won’t be answering again, since it’s way past his business and you have other, more important things to talk about. Since the two of you are on good terms, you can keep it friendly. Good luck.

— Danza Her

by Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman

BEETLE BAILEY

by Mort Walker

HAGAR THE HORRIBLE by

Chris Browne

BLONDIE

by Young and Drake

MUTTS

— Jennifer Lopez

by Patrick McDonell

MARVIN

by Tom Armstrong

Chance Browne

Biles leads U.S. to 7th straight World Gymnastics title

ANTWERP, Belgium

(AP) — Simone Biles and her teammates were far from perfect, and yet nothing could stand in the way of a victory that set a record for both the U.S. women’s team and the greatest gymnast in history.

The U.S. women earned a record seventh consecutive team title at the gymnastics world championships on Wednesday night. For Biles, it was also her 33rd major championship medal — across the worlds and Olympics — to make her the most decorated female gymnast ever.

And it’s fitting that it came in Antwerp, the Belgian port city where Biles came to international prominence 10 years ago by winning her first world title in 2013. “It wasn’t Team USA’s best day,” Biles said. “It’s crazy, we still pulled it out. So I’m really, really proud of the team.”

The American team of Biles, Shilese Jones, Skye Blakely, Joscelyn Roberson and Leanne Wong combined for a total of 167.729 points to edge second-place Brazil and France.

The U.S. team won by a margin of 2.199 points as the final proved to be a closer contest than anticipated after the Americans put up a dominant performance in qualifying to finish more than five points ahead of the field.

“We had some mis-

takes here and there, but just keep going, keep relying on our training,” Biles said. “But I think this team that we have brought this year has the most great courage and fight. ... We had so many emotions going throughout the day.”

The U.S. women have won gold in the team event at every world championship that included a team competition since 2011. Their victory in Antwerp broke a tie with the Chinese men for the longest streak of consecutive team titles.

Biles now has 26 world championship medals, 20 of them gold, to go with her seven Olympic medals, including the 2016 Olympic title. Her 33 combined medals at the sport’s two biggest events are one more than what Larisa

Latynina of the Soviet Union achieved. Russia was banned from the event because of sanctions imposed by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) as a result of the war against Ukraine. In the absence of their Russian rivals — the defending Olympic champions — the Americans were the overwhelming favorites.

But the U.S team overcame an early scare as Roberson was forced out of the event even before it started after she seemed to hurt an ankle while warming up at the vault. She was helped off the mat and subbed by Wong.

“My ankle just ... popped,” Roberson said.

Jones then kicked off the competition smoothly for the Americans with a Dou-

Mustangs: Bocce at Girard

Continued from B1

team leading after 20 minutes.

Iola’s blue team, represented by Shaun McLaughlin, Weston Helmna, Guilis Pina and Kaycee Berry, won first place. The Iola white team also took home first place. That team included Kyndal Bycroft, Vernon Klinzman, Reese Curry and Keegon Garner. The Mustangs gold team took third place.

Marlee Westhoff, Xavier Burrow and Steph Fees rounded out the team.

“Everyone had a great time today and represented Iola well,” Iola head coach Ann Bates said. “It always makes me so happy and proud to see our school community embrace and promote inclusion.”

Iola High School’s unified team represented the state of

KSU: Takes on OSU

Continued from B1

four-touchdown rushing effort in school history.

Oklahoma State: QB Alan Bowman. He got the start against Iowa State after splitting time with two other quarterbacks the first three games and passed for 278 yards and two touchdowns. Garret Rangel and Gunnar Gundy are the replacements if Bowman falters.

FACTS & FIGURES

Oklahoma State is hosting its first Friday

game since 1956. ... Kansas State won last year’s meeting 48-0.

... Kansas State ranks eighth nationally with a .544 third-down percentage. ... Oklahoma State ranks 127th of 133 schools in passing efficiency. ... Kansas State QB Will Howard has eight passing touchdowns and five rushing scores. ... Kansas State LB Austin Moore has 7.0 tackles for loss this season, 10th nationally. ... Kansas State ranks 14th nationally and second in the Big 12 with 39.5 points per game.

Kansas last year, when they were named a 2022 National Unified Champion School program.

ble Twist Yurchenko, with only a small hop. Wong responded to the last-minute call with a clean effort before Biles opted for the slightly safer “Cheng” vault rather than the Yurchenko Double Pike she

performed during qualifying on Sunday.

The Americans amassed 42.966 points and were second behind China after the first rotation following the Chinese gymnasts’ excellent display on uneven bars.

Biles and her teammates then bested their Chinese opponents’ performance on bars as they took the overall lead with a margin of 1.467 points. They increased it a bit further after the beam — despite a sixth-place finish on that apparatus — as Biles made up for the modest 11.700 Wong received by scoring 14.300 with a solid routine.

Biles capped off a successful night for the U.S team with a spectacular floor routine rewarded by a 15.166.

Biles is competing at her first international competition follow-

ing a two-year absence. Her previous appearance was at the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Olympics, where she was hampered by a bout with a mental block known as “ the twisties “ that gymnasts can experience while in the air, and withdrew from several events.

Now she’s back in the same city that catapulted her to international fame a decade ago, winning the first of her five world all-around titles as a 16-year-old prodigy.

“Each and every time you are crowned world champion, it feels a little bit different,” Biles said. “I’m still surprised that I’m still going, I’m 26, I’m a little bit older. It’s different, but it’s exciting.”

Biles, who posted an overall score of 58.732 points, is also the favorite to add a sixth allaround title on Friday.

Simone Biles competes in the uneven bars during the Core Hydration Classic at Now Arena on Saturday, Aug. 5. STACY REVERE/GETTY IMAGES/TNS