‘Hi Neighbor!’ goes out to inform our readers that The Tiller & Toiler office will be closed Monday, Sept. 6 for Labor Day. The Tiller will not publish a Tuesday paper, but normal office hours will resume Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. Have a safe Labor Day weekend and be sure to check out our annual Fall Sports Preview in today’s paper.

______________

UPCOMING EVENTS

Saturday, Sunday and Monday
September 4th, 5th and 6th
Labor Day Weekend at
Fort Larned National Historic Site
• Experience the excitement of a working frontier fort as Fort Larned National Historic Site hosts Labor Day Weekend activities September 4th, 5th and 6th. Living history demonstrations and activities will be held all three days of the event from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Jordaan Memorial Library Closure
• Jordaan Memorial Library will be closed Labor Day weekend, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, September 4th, 5th and 6th.

Sunday, September 5
Belpre High School Alumni Reunion
• You are invited to join your Belpre High School friends on Sunday, September 5th, at the Belpre Community Center. The Community Center will be open by 11:00 a.m., and a “Covered Dish” lunch will begin at 12:30 p.m. Beverages and tableware will be provided.

Thursday, September 9
Coffee Hour
• Next week’s Coffee Hour will be hosted by the Fort Larned Unified School District and Cradles and Crayons, the Pawnee County Interagency Coordinating Council, on Thursday, September 9th, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Court House Lounge.

Friday, September 10
Linda Maddy Reception
• Linda Maddy is retiring from Larned State Hospital after 37 years of service. Please join Linda for a Retirement Party Round Up on Friday, September 10th, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the A. T. Building conference room.

Updated 9/3/10

AG CANDIDATE IN LARNED - Senator Derek Schmidt, (R-Independence) standing center, is introduced by Pawnee County Farm Bureau Association President Gary Nelson, standing left, flanked by board members Kurtis Frick, seated left, Dan Sanneman, standing, right and Mary Hammeke at Thursday evening’s annual meeting. Schmidt, a champion of individual safety for 10 years in the state of Kansas, is a candidate for Kansas Attorney General on the November ballot. (photo by Mike Gilmore)

Kansas AG candidate stops in Larned

By Mike Gilmore
Kansas Senator Derek Schmidt (R-Independence) told the members of the Pawnee County Farm Bureau Association that the important thing in any campaign for public office is to be able to listen to the bosses - the people.

“One thing that I’ve learned as a public official, after 10 years in the Legislature, is that a campaign, if done right, is a chance to learn about the bosses - the people who we work for,” said Schmidt, who has announced his candidacy for Kansas Attorney General. “By meeting with as many people as we can, we learn and internalize their similarities and differences between communities, something that is often subtle, and yet very powerful.”

Schmidt was the featured speaker for the Pawnee County Farm Bureau Association’s annual meeting, which was Thursday evening at the Knights of Columbus in Larned. He was welcomed to the meeting by PCFB President Gary Nelson, who introduced the Independence attorney to the association.

It’s an unfortunate fact that violent crime is more visibly prevalent in our society and in our state, and that more and more laws must be enacted to control it. Being able to strike a balance is something that Kansans still do best, said Schmidt.

“It’s this constant tension between the desire for personal safety, and the fact that the coercive power of the law is increasingly necessary,” Schmidt said. “As an official in city court - not criminal, but the court that we normally expect to deal with speeding tickets and small citations - not a day goes by that we see a person in an orange jump suit and shackles, a perpetrator of violent crime. For those of us in a rural setting, it is unsettling that this has to be part of our way of life.”

_____________________________________________________________________________

Emerson Shields

Local vet at Air Festival and Fly-in

By Mike Gilmore
GREAT BEND - Great Bend Municipal Airport manager Martin Miller was excited last week.
After months of securing vintage aircraft, exhibitions, displays and arranging for rides in the city’s Fifth annual Great Bend Municipal Airport’s Air Festival and Fly-in on Sept. 17-19, he had located a local veteran aviator, and was able to do a good turn for him besides.
Emerson Shields, who for going on 60 years has been operating a successful law practice in St. John, will be given a special birthday present on Saturday, courtesy of Miller and the airshow.
“Mr. Shields used to fly a B-17 in the war in Germany,” Miller said. “We’re bringing the “Sentimental Journey” B-17 in for the airshow, and on Saturday, we’re going to give him a ride in it.”
Shields plans to spend most of the day Saturday at the airport on the second day of the show.
The Festival, which will be free to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, will feature experimental planes, vintage aircraft tours of a B-17, C-45 and C-47 and remote control shows daily, with a special night show on Saturday. “ For the night show, the planes will have special lights, and fly closer to the audience,” he said. “It is really quite a sight.” Drawings will be made daily for rides, flights and learning-to-fly sessions.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Man’s death ruled accidental

The Larned Police Department on Wenesday released the name of a man who died Aug. 28 from serious injuries incurred in a 40-foot fall from a grain bin located in the 400 block of Toles Street in Larned.
From the statement issued by Larned Police Chief Chuck Orth, Matthew Dell, 25, of Larned, lost his balance and fell from a bin while attempting to jump from one adjacent bin to another. According to the statement, it appeared that Dell had accomplished three or four jumps before falling. It was found that Dell and a 26-year-old friend had consumed alcoholic beverages prior to both climbing to the top.
Orth said that the friend, whose name is being withheld, saw Dell land between the two bins, and climbed down to check on him, contacting 911 from Dell’s cellular telephone. The call was received at approximately 3:15 p.m.
Upon arrival on the scene, officers found Dell unresponsive with serious injuries, and arranged emergency transportation to Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Burkes granted probation

On Wednesday, Mitchel D. Burkes, 28 of Great Bend, appeared in the Pawnee County District Court for Sentencing on convictions of Felony Criminal Use of Explosives and Possession of Methamphetamine.
Following statements of the parties, District Judge Bruce Gatterman found the Possession of Methamphetamine to be the primary offense and sentenced Burkes to eighteen months community corrections with a thirteen month underlying prison sentence. The defendant was also ordered to successfully complete drug treatment as a condition of probation.
The charges stem from a traffic stop by the Kansas Highway Patrol west of Larned during the afternoon of September 8, 2009. According to the Pawnee County Attorney’s Office, the trooper observed a homemade explosive device on the seat of the defendant’s vehicle as he approached. The device was later detonated by trained officials with the Kansas Highway Patrol. Subsequent to the defendant’s arrest, drugs and paraphernalia were discovered in the defendant’s vehicle.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Aaron Warrick winner of Larned Bucks

August 13th was Aaron Warrick’s lucky day, (given the fact that it was Friday the 13th). That was the day Aaron’s name appeared at the top of The Tiller & Toiler. Aaron is the lucky winner for the month of August, winning $20 in Larned Bucks.
Each Tuesday and Friday, a subscriber’s name is featured at the top of the front page, and at the end of the month, we draw one of the names featured as a Larned Bucks winner.
You could be our lucky winner in September. All you have to do is look for your name at the top of our front page. If we draw your name (at the end of each month) - you’re a winner! Even if you don’t win, you’re in good company as a reader of The Tiller & Toiler.

_____________________________________________________________________________

This week’s Chamber Coffee Hour was hosted Thursday by the Larned Garden Club at Schnack Park, near one of the club’s largest projects, the Rose Garden. Pictured are the Coffee Hour hostesses, (from the left), club members Marcia King, Gloria Youngdahl and Janet Skelton. Club president Merlene Baird addressed the assembled crowd and explained the many beautification projects the club is responsible for around the city, including the planter boxes on Broadway and the Welcome to Larned signs on 14th Street, in addition to the Rose Garden.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 8/27/10

Eye receives WWII medals in surprise ceremony

FRONT AND CENTER - Clair Kenneth “Kenny” Eye, second from left, is called “front and center” for decoration by his son Tracy, right, as his granddaughter Afton, left and Congressman Jerry Moran, center, witness the event, at the Glory Be Wednesday morning. Eye received service medals for his participation in the Asiatic Pacific theater during WWII. Rep. Moran, who was instrumental in procuring the medals, was on hand to help deliver them in a special ceremony honoring Eye. (Tiller photo by Richard Schwartzkopf)

By Mike Gilmore
Kenny Eye knew that someone was about to be honored among the standing-room-only crowd at Glory Be here Wednesday morning, as the community gathered to hear Congressman Jerry Moran, R-Kan., pay tribute to veterans of WWII.
It wasn’t until his son Tracy called, “Machinist Mate First Class Clair Kenneth Eye, front and center!” from the podium, that he realized that the honor was for him.
The exception was, that practically everyone there already knew who was being honored, except the honoree.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Projects recognized at Coffee Hour

PROUD OF OUR GARDEN - The Larned Chamber of Commerce recognized the local PRIDE committee and its recent projects at the community garden Thursday at Coffee Hour. Pictured, from left, are: Marsha Reece, Jenny Manry and Cassie, Rachel Webster, Donna Stejskal, Donna Preisner, Janet Hammond and Mylee, and Angie Manry. (Tiller photo by Mike Gilmore)

By Mike Gilmore
Gardens, skates and a mini water park.
Just three of the Larned PRIDE Committee’s recent projects that were recognized by the Larned Chamber of Commerce yesterday, as Coffee Hour attendees were treated to a garden party at the Community Garden north of Carr Auction.
The PRIDE Committee works in tandem with the Pawnee County Extension Office to organize projects beneficial to the community, searching out grants and community funding outlets, as well as organizing labor.
Donna Price, representing the local PRIDE group, featured the garden as a a backdrop of successful projects, noting that it is in its second year of operation. The orchard to the west, in its first year, will have a variety of fruit trees to pick from Gardeners have two options - they can either donate time in the garden for their choice of produce, or bring a Dillon’s canvas bag and make a donation. Levi Hatfield and Jenny Maury also provide service as gardeners, to keep the location watered.
The site also hosts about a half-dozen vendors in community market. On Thursday evening, in response to a request for evening hours, the market hosted Bahama Mama’s snow cones from 7-9 p.m., as well as pies and other goods.
Angie Murray called attention to the coffee’s static exhibit, which included several pairs of skates. She said that PRIDE located 400 pairs of skates from a Fort Riley indoor skating rink that will be used at the Larned Recreation Center, for family skating and school physical education programs. “We thought we could locate about 100 pairs, but we ended up with 400,” she said. She said that the rec center plans to offer free family skating for the next three to six months, and for a small fee thereafter.
Next, Jenny Maury reported on plans to buid a city “splash pad” or a mini water area, which would help draw business downtown due to its planned highway frontage location at Doerr park. PRIDE is currently working with Larned City Manager Don Gaeddert and the city for a portion of the water area’s $200,000 price tag, and a $120,000 matching-labor grant. The area’s historic theme would reflect Fort Larned and the Santa Fe Trail Center, she said.
The next Chamber Coffee Hour is slated for the community rose garden, Thursday at 9:30 a.m.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 8/24/10

Larned High School welcomes three foreign exchange students

NEW EXCHANGE STUDENTS AT LHS -- Above, Vierna Menenzes, Hanna Marie Halvorsen and, below, Rolf Pier began their foreign experience as juniors at Larned High School this week. (Tiller photos by Mike Gilmore)

By Mike Gilmore
Whether from foreign soil or not, two things that students can agree on when school starts.
Kansas is flat. And hot.
Larned High School welcomed three foreign exchange students to the district this week, to spend the year learning from, and with the Indians. After a dance Saturday evening, the students were in school on Monday, talking about, among other things, changes to their class schedule.
“I always thought I’d like to learn Spanish,” said Rolf Pier, a 17-year-old from The Netherlands on Monday. “I like the idea of being able to speak Spanish. But it is hard,” he said.
Likewise, Hanna Marie Halvorsen, a 16-year-old from Norway, said she was considering moving down from her advanced algebra course to geometry. “I really like math, I do,” she said. “But I would like to do something a little easier.”
Vierna Menezes, at 15 the youngest of the group, is happy with her classes, she said. But there are a lot more people in her hometown of Fortaleza, Brazil. Almost 2 million more.
“I thought it would be a small town,” she said. “My brother went to school here about four or five years ago and he told me it was small.
“But I really like the city. I’m used to it.”
Some things are the same the world over.
Introducing the new Indians, one at a time, beginning with the oldest:

Rolf Pier
The heat was the first thing that Pier noticed, when he got off the plane this weekend. “It’s really hot, I’m melting away,” he said. “When I stepped off the plane, the wind came up, and it was like - whoosh.” Pier is from a small town in Greonigen, a province in the northern part of The Netherlands. “It never gets above 30 degrees Celsius (about 86 degrees Farenheit) there.”
Pier spent a week in New York before arriving in Kansas on Friday afternoon, getting acclimated to the United States. He will be classified as a junior at LHS, even though he has completed his curriculum in the Netherlands.
Besides his language class, Pier said he wanted to try American football. “We play rugby in the Netherlands, it’s a lot harder because there isn’t any protection,” he said, adding he planned to join the Indians’ football squad for practice Monday afternoon. “I’m going to have to get used to pads and a helmet.”
Pier’s host family while he is here is Jamie and Cindy Walker. “I haven’t really had time to unpack yet,” he said.

Hannah Marie Halvorsen
Halvorsen is 16 and a junior, and turns 17 in December. She grew up in Eastern Norway, in the country, but went to school in the capital. “I’m used to mountains,” she said. “Kansas is really flat - I can see really far away. And the temperature. It’s way cold in Norway.”
In addition to getting used to the heat, she plans to play volleyball. “I like sports, but I’m really bad (at volleyball)” she lamented. “I’m trying to learn the techniques. In Norway we play handball.” Handball is a little like basketball, with six players and a defender at each goal. She is taking English, fitness and wellness, geography and, for now, advanced algebra.
After she finishes her year at LHS, she will have one more year at her school in Norway. While here, she is staying with the Dr. Trent Smith family.

Vierna Menezes
Menezes doesn’t mind the heat. “We have heat all the time,” the 15-year-old said. “When it’s cold, I’ll probably suffer a little.”
Menezes spent three days in Phoenix before arriving in Larned a week ago Saturday. Also a junior, she will be studying geometry, biology, English, Topics in History, and design (art). “I don’t do athletics,” she said. “I do design. I like it.”
Menezes’ brother Yuri told her about Larned, having attended LHS four years ago. “He said that it was small,” she said. “It’s really different than the city.”
Menezes will be staying with Rita Kurtz while in Larned.

_____________________________________________________________________________

The Race for Points Is On
Give Blood, Win Prizes...Go Red Cross Racing!

The race for points is on as Red Cross Racing revs up for the 2010 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.
Red Cross Racing members can get points for a variety of activities, including giving blood and/or platelets and recruiting other blood donors. Those points may be exchanged for prizes such as duffle bags, gardening sets, laptop computer holders and other exciting merchandise.
Fans are invited to enter the 2010 Ready, Set, Give & Win Sweepstakes by logging on to redcrossracing.com and clicking on the Sweepstakes icon on the track.
Two lucky grand prize winners will receive the following: VIP trip for two (2) as ‘Honorary Pit Crew Members’ to a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series(tm) Race. Guests will have the experience of a lifetime as guests of the No. 16 3M/American Red Cross Team. The VIP trip experience also includes roundtrip air travel, two nights’ accommodations, and VIP tours with meet and greets at the race and more!
For the third year in a row, Greg Biffle, driver of the No. 16 3M Ford Fusion, is raising awareness about the ongoing need for blood donations; especially from type O donors like him.
“I’m proud to be associated within the NASCAR community as the American Red Cross driver and a blood donor. I give blood because it’s easy to do and helps support the community,” says Biffle.
Join Greg Biffle in the race for life saving blood donations. Locally, you may give blood on Friday, Aug. 27 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church Community Hall on 701 Main Street, in Larned.

_____________________________________________________________________________

The fellowship hall at the First Presbyterian Church was filled to capacity on Sunday for a benefit dinner for Amber Thompson of Larned. Thompson is suffering from a genetic metabolic syndrome and needs to raise $20,000 prior to the surgery crucial to her health. Sunday’s dinner was hosted by family, friends, church members and members of Kappa Psi and served to over 170 people. Pictured from the left are Diann Morell, Stephanie Reynolds, Angel Penka and Lisa Scarrow. The Amber Thompson Medical Fund has been set up at the Bank of the West in Larned, 324 W. 14th St., or donations may also be dropped off at the American State Bank, 320 Broadway, and First National Bank, 102 W 6th, both in Larned. (photo by Richard Schwartzkopf)

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 8/20/10

UNDERGROUND LOOK -- Steven DeVore, leader of a six-member team from the Midwest Archeological Center in Lincoln, Neb., takes a reading Wednesday at the Fort Larned National Historic Site campus. The team wrapped up a three-week survey Thursday, uncovering evidence of trails, buildings and footings of a wooden bridge which will be used in later plans to renovate the Fort entrance area. (photo by Richard Schwartzkopf)

Nebraska team wraps up three-week survey at Fort Larned site

By Mike Gilmore
Recent visitors to the Fort Larned National Historic Site may have noticed a group of T-shirted individuals sporting large metal detectors, searching the grounds.
No, they weren’t looking for their car keys. What they found is much better.
A team of researchers from the National Park Service’s Midwest Archaeological Center in Lincoln, Neb., wrapped up a three-week “ground truth” survey of approximately 20 acres at Fort Larned on Thursday. Among sheaves of printed data, which the team plans to take back to Lincoln for interpretation and review, are “suspicious marks” which team leader Steve DeVore believes confirms the location of a wooden footbridge and “marks of convergence” that indicates a trail “crossroads” behind the officers’ quarters building that could influence the scope of planned renovations that the Fort has been working on the past year.
Fort Superintendent Kevin McMurry noted that the survey was in preparation of renovations and construction of a new “wagon bridge,” adding that, “A location has been discovered where numerous trails running in all directions converged just outside the fort.
“We’ll use this information to create an exhibit in the new parking lot showing where these trails went to connect the American West in the 1860s.
“We’ve also discovered a building foundation nobody ever knew anything about, as well as what appears to be an ‘oval track’ just west of the Fort.”
Fort Chief Ranger George Elmore said that the survey will wrap up the planning portion of the multi-year renovation proposal, and tangentially confirms what Fort staff have known all along, that there was “something out there.”

_____________________________________________________________________________

Amateur photographs on display at Trail Center

The Santa Fe Trail Center is currently hosting an exhibit of photographs of area amateur photographers to be on display through the Labor Day holiday. The exhibit consists of 4-H entries into the recent Pawnee County Fair as well as the open class category. The subject matter of the photographs ranges from scenery to farming to people.
The Santa Fe Trail Center is located 2 miles west of Larned on K-156. The museum is open 7 days a week through Labor Day. After Labor Day the museum is closed on Mondays for the winter months. Regular museum admission fees apply.

_____________________________________________________________________________

The week’s Chamber Coffee Hour was hosted at SCRAPS Thursday morning by COME Together of Larned. The COME Together organization uses the Public Square process to organize and facilitate positive change through volunteers to enhance our great community, and several members addressed the crowd about various projects they are involved with. Pictured from the left are steering committee members Tayleene Van Norden, Jeff Byrum and Jennifer Anderson. (photo by Richard Schwartzkopf)

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 8/17/10

Work crews were busy Sunday afternoon, Aug. 15, at Ward Feed Yard South on the flake mill which sustained heavy damage in Saturday’s storm. Winds estimated at 60 to 80 miles per hour caused heavy damage through Larned and Pawnee County. See page 10 of today’s Tiller for more pictures of area storm damage. (photo by Richard Schwartzkopf)

Cleanup continues from Saturday storm

By Mike Gilmore
Chris Burris knows the value of good employees.
On Saturday evening, they proved it to him.
“You find out in times of crisis just how good people are, and you are thankful for them,” said Burris, general manager of Ward North and South Feedyards, as his crews continued cleanup on Monday following a severe storm which hammered Pawnee County Saturday evening. “We had a lot of good people that came in and worked through the night so that we could meet our Sunday feed, and keep our cattle watered.”
Burris said employees were still cleaning up after “significant damage” to structures in the south yard, from a large storm Saturday evening which rolled into Pawnee County from the west that knocked out incoming power to about 4,000 people including the City of Larned and Larned State Hospital for about two hours.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Application period begins for County disaster relief assistance

By Mike Gilmore
NESS CITY -- The application period has begun for Pawnee County farmers seeking federal disaster relief assistance due to storms and flooding from June 13-15 of this year.
On Tuesday, Aug. 10, President Barak Obama signed a declaration naming 34 Kansas counties major disaster areas, along with contiguous counties, making local farm producers eligible for financial aid to repair or replace facilities damaged by early-summer storms in eastern, central and north-central Kansas.
“It’s not often we have a presidential declaration,” said Melody Julian, farm loan manager of the Ness City Farm Service Agency office, which serves the area including Pawnee County. “Usually, a declaration for assistance is made by the Secretary. “This appeal was made by the lieutenant governor to the President.”
Heavy rains, flooding and tornado damage to the eastern part of Pawnee County and other primary counties on June 13-15 contributed to the appeal, Julian said. While the actual amount of loss is still being determined, Julian noted the Ness City office is prepared to begin receiving applications this week. The declaration includes both physical loss, such as buildings or fences and crop and livestock production losses. Julian noted that producers have eight months from the date of the declaration to make an application. If approved, emergency loans for actual loss will be granted at an interest of 3.75 per cent, Julian said.

_____________________________________________________________________________

First State Bank & Trust Co. in Larned has been collecting school supplies for the past month to be given to local schools to help those students unable to purchase their own. The items collected were turned over Friday, Aug. 13, to Mrs. Lea Harding, second from the left, principal of the Larned elementary schools. Also pictured are some of the First State Bank & Trust employees. The bank would like to thank the community for their generous support of the school supply drive. (photo by Richard Schwartzkopf)

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 8/13/10

Frick Veterinary Services hosted this week’s Larned Chamber of Commerce Coffee Hour on Thursday, Aug. 12th, in conjunction with an Open House and ribbon cutting ceremony at the newly completed clinic, which is located at 1112 S. K-19 Highway. Pictured above, Dr. Christina Frick prepares to cut the ribbon while member of her staff as well as family members and friends look on. (photo by Richard Schwartzkopf)

_____________________________________________________________________________

Finances hot topic at board meeting

By Mike Gilmore
Calling all Indians, past and present -- students, parents, supporters, and fans - here is a chance to voice your opinion and maybe win a cash award for your school.
Finances were a hot topic at a fast-paced meeting of the USD 495 Board of Education Monday evening at the district office, as budget approval, agreement renewals, and staffing were considered in preparation for the 2010-2011 school year.
As agenda items were dispensed, board open discussion turned to a unique opportunity for Larned High School fans to flex their Facebook fingers in support of their school, with a chance to win a $500,000 in the offing. Board member Sharon Lessard told the board she had been contacted to vote for another school in its participation in Kohl’s Department Stores’ $10 million Kohl’s Cares 10th anniversary giveaway, and saw an opportunity for local support.
“I just thought, ‘Why would I cast my vote for another school, when I could be voting for my own?’” Lessard said. “Even if we didn’t win, it’s a great way for students, parents, and alumni to show support for our school.”

_____________________________________________________________________________

SFTC overflow parking requests

The Santa Fe Trail Center staff requests, should the situation warrant, that overflow parking for Sunday’s Hodgeman 9 19th Century baseball exhibition be restricted to the east side of the museum. Also, as the game will be played per 1870 rules, mitts were not used and so therefore will not be needed to participate.
An admission fee will be charged: $2 for adults; $1.50 for students 12-18; and 75 cents for children aged 6-12. The exhibition is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. on the museum grounds.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Red Cross Racing revs up for 2010

Join NASCAR’s Greg Biffle in the race for lifesaving blood donations. It is easy to participate in Red Cross Racing - you give blood, get points and win prizes. After you give blood, you log your donation at redcrossracing.com, and you will collect points that can be exchanged for great prizes like a Garden Tool Set or Number 16 Diecast Car. Locally, you may give blood on Friday, August 27 from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the First United Methodist Church Community Hall on 701 Main St., in Larned, Ks.
Get in the race today, call 1-800- RED-CROSS or go to redcrossracing.com today to make an appointment.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Kansas Highway Patrol troopers conducted a safety inspection Tuesday, Aug. 10, at the USD 495 Bus Barn in Larned. Statewide troopers inspect school buses and other school vehicles for compliance with safety regulations. In 2009, 9,409 buses were checked for defects by the Kansas Highway Patrol. Pictured above at troopers Domingo Cardenas, Jr., left, and Brent Hemken.

_____________________________________________________________________________

www.pawneehumane.com

____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 8/10/10

Marvin Webster, long time Larned teacher, coach and athletic director for the Larned High School passed away Monday morning, August 9th. Marvin was honored in December of 2008 by having the Larned Middle School basketball court named the Marvin Webster Court. He began his coaching and teaching career in Larned in 1961. Prior to coming to Larned he played professional baseball for the San Francisco Giants organization. Read Marvin’s obituary.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Mike Gilmore joins Tiller & Toiler staff

The new reporter at The Tiller & Toiler is actually an old one.
Star Communications announces the addition of Mike Gilmore to the Hi Neighbor! news staff, to be working primarily out of the Larned newspaper office. Gilmore comes back to Larned, just as he did before, from college at Fort Hays State University, where he is studying English literature.
This time, however, he is somewhat older, a lot grayer, and hopefully – a little wiser.
Gilmore, 49, cut his journalistic teeth at the Tiller in 1984, coming from Fort Hays State University with a major in communications, as a spot news and sports reporter. He spent the next 11 years as a journalist, ending with a brief encounter as publisher of a weekly newspaper in Edwards County.
A growing family, however, drew him to the Dodge City area and out of the newspaper business for the next 10 years, but a desire to return to the written word resurfaced, bringing him again to FHSU for an advanced degree in English Education.
It was in search of some old clips last summer that led him back to the Tiller office, paging through the bound volumes in the basement, and on a whim, he put in an application for employment.
An opportunity presented itself later in the summer, when Tiller publisher John Settle contacted him for an interview.
“I was intrigued and excited,” Gilmore said. “Once printer’s ink gets in your veins, it’s mighty hard to get out. I’m looking forward to getting reacquainted with the people of the Golden Belt area; some of my favorite times were spent here.” Gilmore will be charged with news and photography for each of the Hi Neighbor! newspapers, working out of the Larned office.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Free clothing give-away Saturday

The Episcopal Church of Larned will hold their annual Free Clothing Give-Away just in time for back to school needs.
The clothing is all sizes, children through adult and is free for the taking.
Linda Hampton, church member, noted that there are several household items available too.
If you would wish to donate any clean, useable clothing items you may call Linda at 285-7455 or drop the donations at the north door of the church located at 803 Main, Larned.
The free give-away is scheduled for Saturday, August 14 beginning at 8 a.m.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Fort Larned USD 495 Elementary and Middle School students began the enrollment process Monday, August 9th. Enrollment continues for those students today from Noon to 8:00 p.m. in the Middle School Commons Area. Pictured above Jamie Schroeder assists a parent in the enrollment process. Enrollment for Larned High School students begins on Thursday, August 12th, in the high school front lobby from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and continues on Friday from 8:00 a.m. to Noon. (photo by Richard Schwartzkopf)

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 8/6/10

Primary Election sets up Pawnee County Commissioners 1st District contest

Election Board workers were busy Tuesday, August 3rd, assisting voters at the Larned Community Center during the Primary Election. Pawnee County Clerk Ruth Searight reported that the voter turnout was average for a primary race. Election Board workers pictured from the left are LaVeta Miller, Eleanor Sanders and Cindy Grant. (photo by Richard Schwartzkopf)

By Mark Zwink
While Pawnee County citizens took the norm with statewide elections, they also voted in their choices to run for the General Election during Tuesday’s Primary Voting conducted at the Larned Community Center.
Isaac Lemuz, Democrat, and John C. Haas, Republican, did not receive any challenges and now the two candidates will battle for the Pawnee County 1st District Commissioner seat in November. The seat is currently being held by Arlis Atteberry. Lemuz colleted 84 votes and Haas 409.
USD 496 Pawnee Heights received a big shot in the arm by voters as they approved a Special Question on the Primary Election ballot.
The Special Question was: Shall Pawnee Heights USD 496 be authorized to increase its local option budget by an additional 1 percent of its state financial aid, continuously and permanently, to use the additional budget authority for student instruction? The measure was approved 171 to 54.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Community Health Organization receives
$250,000 Department of Commerce Tax Credits

LARNED, Ks., August 3 - The Pawnee County Community Health Organization has been awarded $250,000 in Community Service Tax Credits by the Kansas Department of Commerce.
The organization will use the tax credits to fund the purchase of a permanent 16-slice CT scanner for Pawnee Valley Community Hospital.
Pawnee County CHO’s Chairman, Harry Zielke, said his organization was thrilled to receive word of the tax credits. “Tax credits offer a direct reduction from the donor’s final state tax obligation,” he said. “It’s not the same as a deduction - it’s better!”
“This gives us a way to improve our ability to raise money for important community health initiatives like the new CT scanner for the hospital,” he said.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Fort Larned USD 495 enrollment begins Monday

By Mark Zwink
It is that time of the year.
Enrollment time with school bells to ring the following week.
Fort Larned USD 495 Elementary Students and Middle School students will begin the enrollment process Monday, Aug. 9 and continue through Tuesday. You can take care of your business in the Larned Middle School Commons area from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tuesday’s times will be from noon until 8 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 12 and Friday, Aug. 13 is enrollment for students attending Larned Senior High School.
Enrollment in the high school front lobby will be from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday.
A busy slate of events for USD 495 staff and personnel is in the offing leading up to the first day of school on Aug. 19.
The Larned Area Chamber of Commerce will be having a Special Coffee Hour for USD 495 starting at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 16. The activities will be held in the Larned Middle School Commons Area.
Teacher’s work-day will be Aug. 17.
A Special Meet the Teacher will be held Aug. 18 in the elementary schools. At Hillside from 5 to 5:30 p.m.; Phinney from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Northside from 6 to 6:30; and for 5th Graders at Larned Middle School starting at 6:30 p.m.
First day of school for students in USD 495 will be Thursday, Aug. 19.
An interesting twist will begin the new year at Larned High. Freshmen will be the first to be welcomed in the morning and the first-year students schooling will continue all-day.
School for sophomores, juniors and seniors starts at 12 p.m.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Area mother of three to be benefit recipient

A Larned area wife and mother of three grade school children will need surgery for a genetic metabolic syndrome soon according to her physician. The surgery is to be performed at Shawnee Mission Medical Center, however since Blue Cross and Blue Shield has denied payment for the surgery, the mother of three will need to pay $20,000 up front to the hospital.
Amber Morell Thompson, daughter of Randy Morell and Diann Morell, like many of the area’s residents, has found herself in need of our citizens’ help in bringing together the funds to prepay the institution’s charges to perform the necessary operation. Many of Amber’s friends have joined together to form a benefit meal at the First Presbyterian Church of Larned on Sunday, August 22 from 11 am to 2 pm. In addition to the free will donation meal, the sorority members of Kappa Psi will be holding a silent auction at the event. Anyone interested in donating an item for the silent auction may contact Angel Penka at 910-7252, or the church office at 285-6033. Thrivent Financial has also been approached in an effort to secure matching funds raised,up to their usual agreed amount. That organization has not responded to date, but has been helpful and generous throughout the area when approached.
The family and friends of Amber Thompson appreciate your help in this most worthy cause and look forward to seeing a large turn out at the benefit August 22 in the Fellowship Hall of the Presbyterian Church. Ms. Thompson and her husband Ryan also appreciate your concern and interest, as Amber faces this medical crisis.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Edward Jones hosted this week’s Chamber Coffee on Thursday, August 5th. It was the company’s opportunity to introduce the new Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Tyler Schultz, left. Pictured with Schultz is Leann Simmons, Branch Office Administrator. Edward Jones also held an Open House Thursday afternoon, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at their office which is located at 506 Broadway. They may be contacted at 285-6076.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 8/3/10

Work continues on Pawnee County Co-op’s two new concrete storage facilities at Main and Trail Streets in Larned. The $2.25 million expansion will add 560,000 bushels of new storage space. Construction began on the storage facility in June and is expected to be completed sometime this fall.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Rabies risks are real

On July 23rd, 2010, a cow from Rush County tested positive for rabies at the Kansas State University Rabies Laboratory in Manhattan KS. The cow was submitted by Dr. Burdett from the Larned Veterinary Clinic in Larned. This is the first case in Rush County and the 37th case in Kansas in 2010. This year’s positives include 24 skunks, 4 cattle, 3 dogs, 2 bats and 4 cats. In 2009 there were 78 animals testing positive in Kansas. The animals testing positive in 2009 included 58 skunks, 3 cats, 4 dogs, 3 cattle, 1 bobcat, 1 fox, 1 raccoon, 1 horse, 1 coyote, and 5 bats.
The risk of exposure to rabies is real, but the disease is preventable in both humans and domestic animals. In the US, there are around 7,000 animal rabies cases diagnosed every year. In the mid-West, skunks and bats are the main sources and the most common animal species positive for rabies. Domestic pets and livestock can be infected from exposure to these wildlife sources of rabies. Rabies prevention consists of vaccinating domestic animals, education of humans to avoid exposures, and providing exposed persons with prompt post-exposure rabies prophylaxis. The World Health Organization reports that ~50,000 people die of rabies infection world-wide every year.
The K-State Rabies Laboratory offers these tips to prevent rabies:
- Have your veterinarian vaccinate all dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, and valuable livestock against rabies.
- If bitten by an animal, seek medical attention and report the bite to your local public health department or animal control department immediately.
- If your animal is bitten, contact your veterinarian for advice.
- Do not handle, or feed wild animals. Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
- If wild animals appear sick or injured, call animal control or an animal rescue agency for assistance.
- Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.
If you have additional questions, please contact your veterinarian, local or state health department, or the K-State Rabies Laboratory at 785-532-4483.
www.vet.ksu.edu/rabies, www.cdc.gov, http://www.worldrabiesday.org

_____________________________________________________________________________

Jonea Hartshorn winner of Larned Bucks

July 13th was Jonea Hartshorn’s lucky day. That was the day Jonea’s name appeared at the top of The Tiller & Toiler. Jonea is the lucky winner for the month of July, winning $20 in Larned Bucks.
Each Tuesday and Friday, a subscriber’s name is featured at the top of the front page, and at the end of the month, we draw one of the names featured as a Larned Bucks winner.
You could be our lucky winner in August. All you have to do is look for your name at the top of our front page. If we draw your name (at the end of each month) - you’re a winner! Even if you don’t win, you’re in good company as a reader of The Tiller & Toiler.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 7/30/10

Big changes for USD 496

By Toni Morss
The relocation of grade school and junior high students will be the biggest change for Pawnee Heights United School District 496 when classes begin on August 25, 2010.
On Tuesday, August 3, 2010, property owners will help to define the future of Pawnee Heights Unified School District 496 through a vote to raise the Local Option Budget (LOB) by one percent. The special question on Tuesday’s ballot will read as follows: Shall the following be adopted, shall the Board of Education of Unified School District 496 Pawnee Heights, Pawnee County, Kansas be authorized to increase its local option budget an additional 1% of its state financial aid continuously and permanently for the purpose of using the additional local option budget authority for student instruction, yes, no?
“Everyone needs to know that voting ‘yes’ will increase property taxes. The increase will not be great, but there will be an increase,” says Daniel Binder, USD 496 Superintendent. “But we’re at a point where we need it if we’re going to survive.”

The relocation of grade school and junior high students will be the most noticeable change for returning students at Pawnee Heights United School District 496 when classes begin on August 25, 2010. Pictured here at the modular unit on the school’s north side is sixth-grade instructor Britt Ewy. Following a vote by the people, Pawnee Heights became a stand-alone district in April 2010.

_____________________________________________________________________________

The Golden Belt Community Foundation hosted this week’s Larned Chamber Coffee on Thursday, July 29th. During the coffee the foundation announced seven recently approved grants to organizations in Pawnee County. Pictured are those accepting the approved grants. From the left, Derek Reinhardt and Scott Upson for Larned Junior Indian Wrestling Club; Lois Eye and Reva Preeo for the Pawnee County Humane Society; Donna Preisner for the Larned Pride Committee; Lea Harding for the Fort Larned Elementary Schools; Dan Grzesiak for the Santa Fe Trail Center; and Mike Seeman for the Larned Recreation Commission. Not pictured is Larned City Manager Don Gaeddert for a Larned Pride Committee project. (photo by Richard Schwartzkopf)

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 7/20/10

The Pawnee County Fair 4-H Horse Show took place at the rodeo arena at the fairgrounds on Saturday, July 17th. Pictured above, entrants in the Intermediate Hunter Under Saddle Class were, from the left, Jodie Skelton, Anna Clawson, Megan Milch and Samantha Harter. The 4-H Poultry Show begins at 8 a.m. Wednesday, and the 4-H Swine Show will start at 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, and the 4-H & Open Sheep Show and the 4-H Goat Show will follow at the fairgrounds. See last Friday’s Tiller and Toiler for a complete schedule of all the Fair and 4-H events planned this week.

Pawnee County Fair, 4-H events get underway

By Mark Zwink
4-H events surrounding the 2010 Pawnee County Fair will kick into high gear today, as the annual event starts it week long schedule.
The annual Businessmen and Women’s Appreciation Dinner and 4-H Fashion Show last Tuesday evening unofficially started this year’s fair.
Following the roast beef supper, two awards were presented during activities inside the J. A. Haas Building. Bubba Welch and John Nichols, of Southern Plains Co-op in Lewis, and K & K Cattle Company of Larned were selected as Friends of 4-H awards. Accepting the award for K & K were Kerry Froetschner and Amy Froetschner.
“Sporting Your Style” was the theme for the 4-H Fashion Revue. The Pawnee Peppers 4-H Club was in charge of the show. Pawnee County 4-Hers from the Gem Dandy’s, Tiny Toilers, Western Wranglers and Zook Zippers took part in the show.
Just a few of the fashion show winners were: Meredith Allison, Senior Girls Division Buymanship Reserve Champion; Karlee Rainbolt, Senior Division Girls Buymanship champion and Grand Champion, Girls Buymanship, Fashion Revue; Megan Milch, Intermediate Division Girls Buymanship champion and Reserve Grand Champion, Girls Buymanship, Fashion Revue; Anna Clawson, Intermediate Division Girls Buymanship Reserve Champion; Katie Fischer, Junior Division Girls Buymanship Champion; and Alea Makings, Junior Division Girls Buymanship, Reserve Champion.
Winners of the Boys Buymanship Division were Carson Smith, Junior Division Boys Buymanship Champion; Kyle Grant, Senior Division Boys Buymanship Reserve Champion and Champion, and Grand Champion, Boys Buymanship Fashion Revue Division; Chase Harter, Junior Division Boys Buymanship Reserve Champion; and Brayden Smith, Intermediate Division Boys Gunmanship Reserve Champion and Champion, and Reserve Grand Champion, Boys Buymanship Fashion Revue Division.

_____________________________________________________________________________

History activities at the Santa Fe Trail Center

Visiting the Santa Fe Trail Center is a great way to spend a summer morning! History Interpreters have prepared a variety of entertaining activities for Wednesday, July 28 and Thursday, July 29. All area children ages 5 - 7 and 8 - 11 are invited to participate and make history come alive! “Travel Back in Time” is an interactive new history program that is both challenging and enjoyable. Both days the programs are from 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and the cost is $1.00 per student. Space is limited to 60 participants each day.
Students ages 5 - 7, on Wednesday, July 28, will take a step back in time by experiencing life as a 19th Century child living in Kansas. Activities include farm chores, old-fashioned toys and games, and one-room schoolhouse lessons. Students ages 8 - 11, on Thursday, July 29, will travel back in time while working for a steamboat captain. Next, they will follow the route of the Santa Fe Trail using rope, cones, and game cards! Then a railroad scavenger hunt will take teamwork to complete! There will be time both days for participants to make-and- take a simple - yet fascinating -19th Century toy.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 7/16/10

The Pawnee County Health Department was recognized recently by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment for their “excellent service, dedication and delivery of the Novel H1N1 Influenza Vaccine throughout the 2009 Pandemic.” The Pawnee County Health Department administered approximately 1,500 doses of the H1N1 vaccine, which was in addition to 1,700 doses of seasonal influenza vaccines administered. Pictured front row from the left, Mitchell Craft, Pawnee County Health Administrator Mary Beth Herrmann and Robin Rziha. Back row from the left, Heather Cobb, Sabra Dupuis, Cheryl Hoberecht and Holly Corman.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Milling, overlay of Broadway and NE Trail Street

Now that harvest is over, the road construction work on Broadway and NE Trail Streets will resume starting Monday, July 19th. Venture Corporation will perform the milling, patching, and overlay work and estimates two weeks for completion. Striping will follow.
This process will proceed much quicker than the concrete work on the intersection, but there will be an inconvenience to motorists and businesses. Please continue to patronize the businesses impacted by the road work and slow down and give the construction workers plenty of room so they can perform their jobs.
Thank you, City of Larned

_____________________________________________________________________________

A year in the life of a Beekeeper

The staff of the Santa Fe Trail Center invites the public to a special program on Sunday, July 18, at 2 p.m. in the museum’s auditorium. Larned Beekeeper Jim Kelly will give a slide presentation on the interesting topic of beekeeping.
This program will bridge nature and history while examining the important role honey bees have carried out for millions of years. Mr. Kelly will talk about the necessity of the honey bee, the work of bees and beekeepers, the history of beekeeping, and its benefits to humankind. He will display various tools of the trade.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 7/9/10

An historical bank merger

“Executives from First National Bank of Larned and the Farmers Bank and Trust of Great Bend met in Larned on Wednesday, July 7th, to sign papers formalizing the merger application of the two historical banks. Pictured from the left are First National Bank CEO and Chairman of the Board B. Kent Moffet; Farmers Bank and Trust CEO and Chairman of the Board W. R. Robbins; and Farmers Bank and Trust Corporate President D. Gene Dikeman, II. The merger plan will take up to 60 days for regulatory approval.”

Imagine, two banks merging and each bank bringing with it over 100 years of service and commitment. Such is the case with Farmers Bank & Trust and First National Bank of Larned. Farmers Bank opened its doors in 1907, and First National Bank obtained a National Bank Charter in 1904. Many dedicated citizens of Larned have been a part of the community’s growth and success through their association with the bank, including President Kent Moffet.
Even though the name on the building will read Farmers Bank & Trust, the internal workings will find like values, the same friendly employees, and a new institution poised to meet the changing bank climate – all positioned as a result of like history, including Midwest values and sweat of the brow heritage.
Farmers Bank roots started in Albert, Kansas, in order to help rural customers as they carved out their rural livelihood by toiling the fields that stretched around the outskirts of their town. “The roots that started in Albert, Kansas, obviously continue to run deep for us,” stated Gene Dikeman, who has served as President for five years. “Those values are still the foundation for the success of this organization as we wake up every day with the question of, ‘How can we serve our customers better?’” Dikeman was a Larned resident for 24 years.

_____________________________________________________________________________

San Antonio Revolution to visit Larned

By Mark Zwink
Citizens of Larned will once again be treated to watch another drum and bugle corp on Monday.
The Revolution of San Antonio, Texas will be stopping in Larned to hone their show for the annual 2010 Starlite Drum-O-Rama July 13th in Hutchinson.
Marc Webster, Larned High School Band Director, is assisting in bringing the Revolution to Larned. The group will arrive early Monday and then practice their routine throughout the day on the Larned High School football practice field. The San Antonio corp will also be busy Tuesday as they prep once again for that evening’s performance. The Revolution will then board their buses and head to Hutch early Tuesday afternoon.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Fireworks Clean-up Responsibility

It is the responsibility of everyone who discharges fireworks to clean them up from the city streets, neighbors lawns (with their permission), and your own property as soon as the holiday ends.
Please clean up all these areas in order to insure the discharging of fireworks in the future.
Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.
Thank You — City of Larned

_____________________________________________________________________________

This week’s Chamber Coffee Hour was hosted by the Miss Fort Larned Pageant on Thursday, July 8th, in the Jordaan Room. Assistant Pageant Direct Brenda Holopirek, left, addressed those in attendance and told them about the Miss Fort Larned Pageant, which will be held Thursday, July 29th, at 6:30 p.m., at the Larned Community Center. Pictured beside Holopirek is Pageant Director Kathy Ratzlaff. Seated are five of the seven contestants, who also introduced themselves to the crowd. Seated from the left are Courtney Towrey, Bailey Kile, Meredith Rogers, Katie Higginbotham and Maris Delgadillo. Not pictured are Kylie Perez and Kristal Duft. Tickets for the pageant are on sale now.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Burkes pleads guilty to explosives and drug charges

Larned - On Tuesday, Mitchel D. Burkes, 28 of Great Bend, entered a Guilty plea in the Pawnee County District Court to Felony Criminal Use of Explosives and Possession of Methamphetamine.
The charges stem from a traffic stop by the Kansas Highway Patrol west of Larned during the afternoon of September 8, 2009. In support of the plea, Assistant Pawnee County Attorney Douglas McNett advised the court that the trooper observed a homemade explosive device on the seat of the defendant’s vehicle as he approached. The device was later detonated by trained officials with the Kansas Highway Patrol. Subsequent to the defendant’s arrest, drugs and paraphernalia were discovered in the defendant’s vehicle.
Burkes remains free on bond. Sentencing has been scheduled for September 1, 2010.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 7/2/10

The Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Auxiliary was out in full force on Monday, June 28th, to participate in a flag raising ceremony. The Auxiliary donated a new American flag to the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital from funds from the Duane Walker Memorial. Auxiliary member Carrol Walker, Duane’s widow, is pictured above holding the new flag. Duane served our country in the U.S. Navy for twenty-two years. The Auxiliary thought the purchase of the new America flag a fitting tribute to him. He will continue to be remembered for his love and service to our country.
(below): Mrs. Walker holds the flag pole as the new American flag is raised for the first time.

_____________________________________________________________________________

James and Valerie Marshall winners of Larned Bucks

June 22nd was James and Valerie Marshall’s lucky day. That was the day their name appeared at the top of The Tiller & Toiler. They are the lucky winners for the month of June, winning $20 in Larned Bucks.
Each Tuesday and Friday, a subscriber’s name is featured at the top of the front page, and at the end of the month, we draw one of the names featured as a Larned Bucks winner.
You could be our lucky winner in July. All you have to do is look for your name at the top of our front page. If we draw your name (at the end of each month) - you’re a winner! Even if you don’t win, you’re in good company as a reader of The Tiller & Toiler.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Primary Seat Belt Enforcement
No More Warnings

TOPEKA – As of June 30, 2010, citations for non-seat-belt use will be issued, ending the warning period for the new primary seat belt law, which went into effect June 10.
Law enforcement officers in Kansas will now be able to stop and ticket drivers and front-seat passengers who are not wearing safety belts even if the officers do not observe another traffic violation. The new law also makes it a secondary violation for adults in the back seat, which means they may be fined only if another citation is issued. This does not affect the existing law for anyone under 18; it is still a primary offense if they are unrestrained anywhere in the vehicle.
When worn correctly, safety belts have proven to reduce the risk of fatal injury to front-seat passenger car occupants by 45 percent – and by 60 percent in pickup trucks, SUVs and minivans. That research becomes significant when coupled with KDOT statistics showing that only 30 percent of people killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2008 were buckled in at the time of the crash. Currently, Kansas’ safety belt use rate is 77 percent, which is one of the lowest in the nation (43rd out of 50 states) and well below the national average of 84 percent.

_____________________________________________________________________________

This week’s Chamber Coffee was hosted by the 1st State Bank and Trust Company, in celebration of their 114 years of being a locally owned and operated Pawnee County bank. President and CEO Doug Briggs, pictured at left, gave a brief history of the bank to the large crowd in attendance. Briggs also briefly mentioned that 1st State Bank and Trust made the Weiss Ratings list of Best Banks, making it the highest rated bank in all of their markets. Pictured next to Briggs is Chamber Ambassador Ralph Arnold, and on the right is Matt Watkins, 1st State Bank and Trust Assistant Vice President.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Updated 6/29/10

The Bubble Man and Science Maniac (aka Ron Tibbetts of Wichita) performed Friday, June 25th, for the children participating in the Summer Reading Program at the Jordaan Library. Approximately 80 people were on hand for his very popular show. The Summer Reading Program is entirely funded by the Kiwanis Club of Larned.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Annual Independence Day celebration

Larned will hold its annual Independence Day celebration on Sunday, July 4th in the Jordaan Park, just north of the Community Center.
The Fort Larned Post Band will be providing free entertainment prior to the fireworks again this year. Their performance will be from 8:00 to 9:00 pm in the park lawn. Jill Smith, will sing the National Anthem just prior to the fireworks. The Larned Fire Department will begin the fireworks display at dark, between 9:30 and 10:00 pm. If there is bad weather the band will still be playing in the Community Center Auditorium and the fireworks will be postponed by the Larned Fire Department until the next evening.
Something new this year for the evening; come support our local groups and organizations with their fundraisers; all will be set up on the west side of the Arena. Church of the Nazarene is selling Homemade Ice Cream, First Christian Church will be selling Brownies, Ice Cream, and drinks, Bahama Mama Snow Cones and the Pawnee County Humane Society will be giving away FREE water; this will be the last chance to participate in the Donations for a Chance to revieve some very nice prizes, including a homemade afghan, homemade rag strip throw, 2 dinners package, tickets to the Dodge City Rodeo, $25.00 cash, $50.00 Wal-Mart Gift Card, Gift Basket and a PCHS “Pampered Pup” Treasure Chest. Tickets are $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00. Winners will be announced around 9:00 p.m. before the fireworks display begins.
The Larned Chamber Ambassadors would like to thank those businesses and individuals in the Larned, Rozel and Burdett communities who make the 4th of July fireworks possible by their support of our Flag Lease program. A thank you is also extended to the members of the Larned Fire Department who volunteer their time to present the fireworks display.
We hope everyone will bring their lawn chairs, blankets and bug spray and join us at Jordaan Park in celebrating this year’s 4th of July spectacular.

Kansas AG candidate stops in Larned

Local vet at Air Festival and Fly-in

Man’s death ruled accidental

Burkes granted probation

Aaron Warrick winner of Larned Bucks

Eye receives WWII medals in surprise ceremony

Projects recognized at Coffee Hour

Larned High School welcomes three foreign exchange students

The Race for Points Is On Give Blood, Win Prizes...Go Red Cross Racing!

Nebraska team wraps up three-week survey at Fort Larned site

Amateur photographs on display at Trail Center

Cleanup continues from Saturday storm

Application period begins for County disaster relief assistance

Finances hot topic at board meeting

SFTC overflow parking requests

Red Cross Racing revs up for 2010

Mike Gilmore joins Tiller & Toiler staff

Free clothing give-away Saturday

Primary Election sets up Pawnee County Commissioners 1st District contest

Community Health Organization receives $250,000 Department of Commerce Tax Credits

Fort Larned USD 495 enrollment begins Monday

Area mother of three to be benefit recipient

Rabies risks are real

Jonea Hartshorn winner of Larned Bucks

Big changes for USD 496

Pawnee County Fair, 4-H events get underway

History activities at the Santa Fe Trail Center

Milling, overlay of Broadway and NE Trail Street

A year in the life of a Beekeeper

An historical bank merger

San Antonio Revolution to visit Larned

Fireworks Clean-up Responsibility

Burkes pleads guilty to explosives and drug charges

James and Valerie Marshall winners of Larned Bucks

Primary Seat Belt Enforcement No More Warnings

Annual Independence Day celebration

The Race for Points Is On
Give Blood, Win Prizes...Go Red Cross Racing!

Community Health Organization receives
$250,000 Department of Commerce Tax Credits

Primary Seat Belt Enforcement
No More Warnings