February 18 area golf

Hope stays afloat for Truman yacht repairs

The former president’s yacht, the USS Williamsburg, has had one tow line in the grave for 20 years, about as long as it has been deteriorating at a shipyard in northern Italy. But hope remains among those who would like to see the 243-foot vessel returned to glory. The price, however, is high, and rust is merciless.

Husain Abdullah, who gave up football to take Muslim pilgrimage, is back in NFL with the Chiefs

New Chiefs safety Husain Abdullah, a practicing Muslim, elected not to return to the Minnesota Vikings last season and instead took his wife, parents and two older brothers on a monthlong pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia last October. “To get back out here and to have a second chance, not a lot of people get one,” Abdullah said. “So this is a blessing.”

Summer dining: Savor the season’s fresh flavors

Restaurant patios around the city are abuzz with al fresco diners eager to sip and sup under the stars. Festivals are in full swing, serving up barbecue, cotton candy and street food. Farmers markets on both sides of the state line supply shoppers with local produce for bountiful dinners on the grill.

Summer events: A day-by-day list of activities

OK, so you have relatives coming in from out of town this summer. You want to show them what a neat place Kansas City is, but there are so many things to do, and you’re not sure how to pick and choose. Save this list, and you’ll have a perfect itinerary no matter when or how long the interlopers stay.

Kathleen Sebelius and the ‘fourth scandal’

One can envision the hearings. The outraged congressmen and the pompous senators grilling the secretary, with no answer likely to satisfy. The TV lights and live coverage on Fox. A new revelation (or non-revelation) popping up every couple of days. Is it any wonder good people are reluctant to go into public service these days?