Before a packed house Thursday, the Independence Community College Board of Trustees listened as several people from the audience expressed their concerns with the board on their decisions to terminate a long time instructor and the elimination of the baseball program. 

A lengthy presentation by Rusty Arnold, superintendent of schools, of a rough draft of what the Independence Middle School schedule will look like beginning next year was given to the board Monday. "What we are trying to do is make smaller class sizes of about 20 students or fewer," he said. 

Farm fresh veggies, homemade goodies and crafts … oh my! It’s Farmer’s Market season. Due to high demand, the Independence Farmer’s Market will open earlier this year, said coordinator Carolyn Torrance.

“About two weeks ago, Hillary Perkins called me and wanted to know about our farmer’s market here,” she began. “He has been in the process of moving here and one of the first things they did was plant a garden and he put in 200 crowns of asparagus. He had some other spring vegetables, too. He wanted to know when we opened.”

Independence Community College played host to Lynn Jenkins, Kansas US Congresswoman, 2nd district, as she made a quick visit to hear from the area community colleges and their concerns about congressional proposals circulating in congress. "We have an opportunity to work really hard on education issues between now and the end of the year for all of you and I'm here for you to tell me what I need to know so I can serve you (colleges)," said Jenkins. 

First Friday was a day for recognition and awards as both Magnolia Scents by Design and Shulthis Stadium received the Award for Excellence at the 2017 State Building Awards program from the Associated General Contractors of America. Rusty Arnold, Independence superintendent of schools, presented each of the award recipients with a plaque recognizing their efforts to bring the new construction of a replica of the 1918 Shulthis stadium.

The Independence Chamber of Commerce monthly First Friday has never been sweeter than it was today. To start with, the event was sponsored by Dairy Queen and its reopening at the end of May was announced. Brent Littleton, owner, shared the architectural drawings and his gratitude to the community for their support and encouragement. "It is such a privilege to be part of a community that sees so many people taking an interest," said Littleton.

Volunteers are an important aspect of most organizations and around the community, and Girl Scout volunteers are no different. Honoring those dedicated volunteers shows appreciation for them as well as encourages others to jump on the volunteer train.

A new business name has now replaced the former Hugo's Mini Storage facility on W. Main. Quality Mini Storage effectively became the new owner March 1 and officially opened for business April 2.