Opinion

GUEST COLUMN, Shannon Francis, 125th District Representative

Carol and I celebrated our 39th anniversary on Saturday. She surprised me by taking the bus from Liberal to Topeka to celebrate. She said it was nice and a much better experience than driving for six hours like I do. It was great having her up here for the weekend, but I do miss being home and sleeping in my own bed for a couple of nights. Carol makes my service in the Legislature possible. She’s always there for me – whether it’s proofing my newsletter, listening after a tough week, or letting me know what’s going on at home. I couldn’t do it without her.

L&T Publisher Earl Watt

Over the years a lot of people have been in and out of the office that would make great public servants, and I’ve encouraged many of them to run for office.

While many are flattered by the encouragement, there is always one issue that makes them say no.

“It will hurt my business,” they say.

I push further, telling them that if we don’t have good candidates we won’t get the best leadership.

They agree. But the personal risk is too great. If they make a decision that might be best for the community, there will still be about half of the people who won’t like it, and that half will retaliate personally against their private business.

THE POSTSCRIPT, Carrie Classon

After a while, no one wants to look like a tourist.

Experienced travelers will buy a hat in a local store, convinced that having the same head covering will somehow make them less conspicuous. They stray off the main streets and take their meals in the places locals frequent. They leave their fancy backpacks in the hotel and carry only what they need to explore the city. And, most importantly, they don’t take photos.

SAINTS PERSPECTIVE, SCCC President Brad Bennett

Over the past month, I’ve seen more of the highway between the state capitol in Topeka and home than I would prefer. One of my favorite things about being the president of Seward County Community College is the opportunity to connect with students. Showing up to campus events and ceremonies like the recent honor society induction is important and far more than a duty. It’s exciting to see our students succeed.

This spring, that hasn’t always been possible.