Wichitans know that payday loan stores have multiplied like rabbits locally. Well, Kansas Action for Children counted 436 payday and car-title lenders in the state this year, up from a mere 53 in 1993. But with the hired help of such heavyweights as former Kansas House Speaker Doug Mays and former Attorney General Bob Stephan, the industry has done an effective job so far of persuading state legislators that when it comes to such lenders, the more, the merrier. State Rep. Melody McCray-Miller, D-Wichita, plans another push to cap title-loan interest rates at 36 percent and help limit an individual’s total loans. People being preyed upon by such lenders must better plead their case in Topeka. “It’s harmful to families. It’s harmful to children. They prey upon elderly,†McCray-Miller told The Eagle editorial board. One source of hope, she said, is that credit unions and some banks are offering responsible alternatives. “That cuts through the heart of the argument that says, ‘We’re the only players on the block.’â€
Posted by Rhonda Holman
The optimism and enthusiasm shown last week in Greensburg was an inspiration. Despite the destruction of their town by a tornado on May 4, residents and city leaders spoke during a community meeting about opportunities — to make Greensburg a model community by rebuilding using environmentally friendly standards, to improve city infrastructure, to equip public school classrooms with state-of-the-art technology. The road to full recovery will be long and frustrating at times. But Greensburg residents are demonstrating the power of hope.
Posted by Phillip Brownlee
Gov. Kathleen Sebelius’ 2007 Christmas card features a snowy scene painted by Arkansas City artist Mark Flickinger, a snapshot of her family (complete with dog) and the nondenominational greeting: “We wish you the joy and laughter of family and friends for the holiday season and throughout the year.â€
All in all, the card plays it safe and doesn’t stand out among this year’s gubernatorial greetings, which include original art by Tennessee’s Gov. Phil Bredesen, lots of crowded family shots, and even some Bible verses and specific references to Christmas.
Posted by Rhonda Holman
In an interesting interview in the National Journal, Sam Brownback said running for president made him a better person and legislator, and even has him now recommending to colleagues that they run for president. He also says he hasn’t given running for governor much thought. Among his Senate goals: “to get a dialogue going between faith and science†and to engage Africa in an effort to deal with its humanitarian crises and counter the influences of Islamic extremism and the Chinese.
Posted by Rhonda Holman
