Joe Biden has become America’s “it’s not my fault” president. Whether it’s the inflation, the border, the crime, the gas prices, the Afghanistan exit fiasco or the stock market collapse, Biden has become an expert at pointing the finger at someone else.

WASHINGTON — Emerging from World War II, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization was established by 10 European countries, the United States and Canada to form a bulwark against the communist-ruled Soviet Union. It was a pillar in the new world order that was to last for the rest of the century and into this one.

Fourth of July is suddenly upon us, so make sure your grill is dusted off and your tiki torches are full! Have a wonderful weekend and take a peek at a few of the events that are going on this holiday weekend. If you have an event you would like me to feature in this weekly section, please send it to brea@indydailyreporter.com

Perhaps the most permanent image to come out of Tuesday’s hearing into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol was of the cleanshaven Chief of Staff Mark Meadows bustling about to help Donald Trump overthrow the United States government.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Office of the State Fire Marshal and Safe Kids Kansas are sharing some important safety tips to ensure that all Kansans have a safe and fun Independence Day this year.

China reduced quarantine times for inbound travelers by half, the biggest shift yet in a COVID-19 policy that has left the world’s second-largest economy isolated as it continues to try and eliminate the virus.

KEEPIN’ IT COOL — The wonderful ladies at Sunflower Nutrition were welcomed into the Independence Chamber of Commerce Wednesday morning during a ceremonial ribbon cutting. Sunflower Nutrition offers a bevy of delightful herbal teas and shakes and is always ready to give you a quick pick-me-up! Brea Sanford

The watercolor, “Silver and Velvet” by Carol Davis of Wichita, was selected as Best of Show for the 68th annual Verdigris Valley Art Exhibit. Emily Ritter, Independence Community College associate art professor, presented her selection by video at a reception on Friday, June 24, at the Independence Historical Museum and Arts Center (IHMAC), located at 123 North 8th, Independence, Kansas. Co-chairs Kym Kayes, Connie Ubben and Eenie Fitzpatrick welcomed a large gathering to the reception. Jim Hayward was recognized for arranging the exhibit. Receiving first and second

READY TO ROLL! — This beautiful (not so) little Luna Moth was found relaxing the day away by IDR reader Virginia Huffman. If you would like to have your photo considered for the front page of the Reporter, e-mail a high quality photo, along with information, to: leadphoto@indydailyreporter.com. Subject suggestions include people and animals. Courtesy Photo

What’s the price of hay right now? With the high input prices this season, it’s a real rodeo. Between high fuel, fertilizer, and herbicide prices, it seems that harvesters are going to have to really know the value of driving their equipment over the hay field.