I wanted to be known as something other than a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to the newspaper. After 30 years, and having held several positions, Special Sections Editor looks really good on my business card.

I am not a superstitious person. Well, generally I’m not. I will, if I spill salt, pinch a bit up and fling it ceremoniously over my left shoulder.

There are things in life you just don’t do.

There are the obvious ones – never kick someone when he’s down, don’t use the “N” word a la Dr. Laura, never say the “R” word a la our Jen, never play cards with a guy named Doc, never eat at a place called Mom’s, never go to a bed with someone who has more problems than you, never dance with a girl that dips, never date someone with a spit cup on their ironing board.

The following young men were honored by friends, family and members of Troop 362 on July 25 at an Eagle Court of Honor at the Elks Lodge in Blue Springs.

With star power including the likes of NFL players Tony Gonzalez, Matt Cassel and American Idol David Cook behind your charity, how can you go wrong?

As you read this I will be in the positively bustling metropolis of Council Bluffs, Iowa, playing in a bridge tournament with my best friend and all time goodfella, Sir. Did you know we celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary last Sunday?

I was beginning to panic after scanning the rooms and he was nowhere to be found. My nerves were already getting the best of me, wondering what this first visit with Dad in his new home was going to bring.

The fundraising season is about to begin in Eastern Jackson County. Announcements of upcoming galas and benefits are becoming more frequent in the daily mail, proclaiming that summer vacation is coming to a close, and the social calendar is once again filling up. Some favorite and familiar annual gatherings are being scheduled and some surprises are sure to be in store.