Opinion

Dear Eric: I am in my 70s so I should know better. Almost two years ago I had to put my 13-year-old Yorkshire Terrier named Shorty to sleep. This broke my heart.

In times of crisis, true character is revealed. And once again, Fort Hays State University students have shown that our Tiger Nation is defined by compassion, leadership, and service to others.

Dear Eric: My sister suffers from alcoholism and drug addiction from way back. I am the exact opposite of her in almost every way – rarely drink, never do drugs.

I have noticed over the past couple of years that the next generation are tired of taking the spoon feeding from our culture and are seeking Truth. It is like when you know you have eaten too much sugar, and you just feel kind of ugh! You say to yourself, “I need something with substance.” For a good many years, our culture has been indoctrinating our youth into a fairytale world view.

As a mom, former foster mom, grandma, former teacher, school administrator and a therapist who works with adolescents and youth, I see so much HOPE for our future generations! I also know they are being exposed to more than ever before in our society. We as the adults in their lives must be aware, intentional, and vigilant about the things they are facing in today’s world.

Dear Readers,

I have always appreciated the great impact of school psychologists, and I’m proud of each of our FHSU grads who strive to give back to their communities through this essential service. FHSU’s 2025 Lighthouse award winner, Allyson Baloga, exemplifies the spirit of supporting children, parents, and their school systems as she looks forward to launching her career as a school psychologist.

Dear Eric: I was a latch-key kid in the ’70s, no father, working mom of three kids. No one was ever there to read me a story, watch me make a basket or catch a ball.