No Lyons News
on Tuesday

The Lyons News will not be published Tuesday, Sept. 7 to allow employees to take Labor Day off to celebrate the holiday.
The next Lyons News will be published Friday, Sept. 10. The Rocket will be delivered Tuesday.

Lyons News admin@ldn.kscoxmail.com

Updated 9/3/10

(Above) Central Elementary third graders (from left) Tania Silva, Ashley Carrera, John Smith and Abril Rodriguez are speechless after classmates transform them into mummies using toilet paper. (Below) Third-grade teacher Susan Reazin demonstrates how to walk like an Egyptian. The third-students were rewarded with a party after completing 100 pages of reading for the month of August. (Photos by LouAnn Cobb)

‘Mummy, we’re out of toilet paper’

By LouAnn Cobb
Central Elementary School third-grade readers learned about Egypt while having fun Wednesday with a well-deserved celebration in the school library. It was a cooperative effort by returning third-grade teacher, Rhonda Feldman, and Susan Reazin, and Bren McGuire, both new to Lyons.
The overall Egyptian theme included a musical game, marshmallows and Fig Newton candy bar treats, a documentary movie on Egypt and a team activity using rolls of toilet paper.
The first game began with instruction by Feldman. Students were introduced to six stations that were identified throughout the library: The Lotus Flower, The Pyramids, The Hippo, The Mummy, The Pharaoh and The Sphinx.
“Now I’m going to put on my best belly dancing music,” Feldman said.
Feldman led the students (in a game similar to musical chairs) as they gave their best impression of walking like an Egyptian. Every time the music stopped, students ran to a station of their choice.
The game continued as Feldman randomly eliminated groups of students until only one child was left standing. Tania Silva was declared the winner.
Before the students were dismissed to catch the bus home, they divided into teams of three. Using two rolls of toilet paper the two-team members wrapped their shortest teammate like a mummy.

Brayden Morris (left) and Madison Hoskins (center) leave the best for the last as they wrap their teammate Mathew Graham up like a mummy. The exercise was a highlight of an Egyptian-theme party prepared for the students by their teachers: Susan Reazin, Rhonda Feldman and Bren McGuire. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)

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Sixth-grade culture

Jordan Cedeno, Tristan Basham and Jessikah Smith hand out “chocolate mice.”

Melinda Rose’s sixth-grade social studies classes at Lyons Middle School have been alive with cultural presentations.
The students are studying culture, what makes up culture and how its various aspects matter to us as individuals. Students have brought items which are important for their families.
An awesome display of family recipes with samples for all tickled the taste buds this morning during presentations.

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Updated 8/27/10

By Golly! It’s Buffalo Bill Cody

By LouAnn Cobb
William Frederick Cody, better known as “Buffalo Bill” Cody was one of the greatest frontiersmen of the Wild West days. He was considered one of the finest Indian Scouts and fought with the United States Calvary off and on for 17 years during the Indian Wars.
The last 34 years of his life was spent traveling back and forth between the United States and Europe performing with Wild West shows.
Jack Ooley of Lyons has gotten to know Cody over the years, through the books he reads and the stories he hears from cowboys, like his good friend Jim Gray of Ellsworth.
“Gray is a real cowboy from how he dresses to how he talks,” Ooley said. “He lives it everyday.”
In 2004, Ooley and his wife Beverly got a taste of the Wild West culture when they visited the Buckhorn Saloon in Denver Colo, a place “ Cody patronized back in the 1800s.
It was March and the saloon was sponsoring a Buffalo Bill look-a-like contest.
Gray told Ooley he was a dead ringer for the famous frontiersman and he should enter the contest.

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HEALTH CARE REFORM DISCUSSED -- The Lyons Rotary Club was hosted by the Rice County District Hospital Tuesday. The speaker for the meeting was Chad Austin (right) of the Kansas Hospital Association. Austin presented a program that outlined how Kansas Hospitals will cope with the changes brought about by President Barack Obama’s healthcare reform legislation. Jack Wempe (left) visits with Mr. Austin while Hospital Administrator Bob Mullen (second from left) and Thane Frazier look on.

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Updated 8/24/10

Bulkhead to Remedy Problem
Lyons Salt solves water issue

Lyons Salt is preparing to build a concrete bulkhead to seal brine water in an inactive area. The bulkhead will occupy a space of 400 feet, 14 to 22 feet high and 30 to 40 feet thick.The bulkhead will isolate the brine water from the mining operations at Lyons Salt.

By LouAnn Cobb

When mining executive Ken Grimm came to Lyons Salt Company three years ago a new culture within erupted.

His goal -- to remove the barriers and create a working environment where accountability, respect and professionalism became the backbone of the operation.

This was a welcome challenge for Grimm.

It was the first time he had been to this part of the country and the first time to work for a smaller mining operation. Most of his mining experience was with soft rock mining in upstate New York, northern Minnesota, Michigan, Ohio and Saskatchewan, Canada.

Grimm was excited to be able to bring his expertise to a mining operation he refers to as one of the finest mines, as far as mining conditions go, that he has seen.

“There is a lot more accountability in a smaller company -- no time for politics,” Grimm said. “All energy moves forward and I like that. I’m a hard driver.”

Grimm said he spent his first year here looking around and putting plans together. His purpose -- to create a new culture at Lyons Salt Company and to re-capitalize the mine.

In January 2008, water was found entering the mine in a very remote area at a rate of 30 gallons a minute.

Grimm said the water inflow is still under investigation but he suspects that an old oil well and possibly geological issues are the cause and have weakened the area above the mine.

“It is not mining related,” Grimm said. “Water is perfectly natural in most mining operations but in salt mines we prefer not to have water.”

A team of experts has been studying the water inflow for more than two years.

“We’ve invested $2.6 million in the study,” Grimm said. “How can you fix a problem if you don’t understand it? We did a lot of due diligence on it, looked at all the options and are confident that the bulkhead is our best long term solution.”

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Rice County plant clear in nationwide egg recall

By Paul Jones

Rice County’s Chase Cal-Maine Foods egg-producing facility, which supplies a million conventional eggs and a quarter-million organic eggs daily to a number of customers in the central part of the United States, is not directly involved in the nationwide recall of contaminated eggs in Iowa and other states in that area.

But because Cal-Maine is the country’s largest producer and distributor of shell eggs in the United States, and with 35 facilities, primarily in the southwestern, southeastern, midwestern and mid-Atlantic regions of the country, has some connection with companies cited for involvement in the contamination case.

Neither Lyons Foodliner nor Doug’s Hometown Foods in Lyons are involved; suppliers of eggs for each supermarket are outside the loop of contaminated product

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An accident at West Main cut power for more than five hours
Saturday in Lyons. Lyons police report a westbound 1999 Ford
Expo driven by Adrian Buganda, 20, struck a power pole when
the driver apparently feel asleep at 5:34 a.m. Saturday. Officers
said Buganda of Great Bend, was treated and released for facial
abrasions at the Rice County District Hospital. Midwest Energy
officials report that power was out for more than 400 customers.

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Lyons Salt investment pays off

Ken Grimm, executive vice-president Lyons Salt Company speaks to Lyons Rotarians and guests Tuesday at the Celebration Center. Grim delivered a Power Point presentation on changes and improvements being made at the salt mine. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)

Crushed salt is stored in a large tent-like structure. A conveyor belt moves the salt to the elevators where it then travels to the surface in 5-ton batches. The salt produced is used primarily for agricultural purposes and deicing. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)

By LouAnn Cobb
An executive from the Lyons Salt Company provided a Rotary Club audience and guests a peek into the operations of the company.
Ken Grimm, Lyons Salt Company executive vice-president, explained changes at the salt company Tuesday at Celebration Center.
Grimm said the company has invested $20 million in the past two years with $7 million more investment planned for the mine.
“We are excited about our operation in Lyons,” Grimm said.
More than 500,000 tons of salt is mined and sold annually.
“We employ 82 people from Lyons and the surrounding area,” Grimm said. “Wages range from $16 to $25 per hour and include 401K and a full- benefit package. We take care of our people. They are our first priority.”
Grimm said the company recently changed their operation from two shifts a day to three.
“We now have three eight-hour shifts a day, five days a week.” Grimm said.

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Tyson Bauerle and Otis Hendryx

History grant will help Rice teachers

By Jim Misunas
Two Rice County history teachers will benefit from the TAH (Teaching American History) grant awarded to ESSDACK in Hutchinson.
Sterling Grade School teacher Tyson Bauerle and Chase teacher Otis Hendryx were accepted in the program that will aim to improve the quality of teaching American history in our nation’s schools.
Bauerle said he appreciated his district’s support and the help of grant writer Clelia McCrory.
“I am excited because this will be a great opportunity for me to become a better, more effective, educator,” he said. “Gaining access to great material and having the opportunity to collaborate with other history teachers can only be beneficial. I am always looking for ways to improve my classroom and looking for new ways for students to interact with the content. I expect this grant will allow me to do so.”
Hendryx teaches history from sixth grade to high school.

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Claflin, Quivira Heights to schedule football reunion

Claflin High School and Quivira Heights High School have scheduled a reunion Sept. 3 when the football teams meet at Claflin.
Friday, Sept. 3 is the first football game in 2010 and the last scheduled Quivira Heights-Claflin football game. The game will start at 7 p.m. at Claflin.
Former players or coaches who have played football at Claflin or Quivira Heights or Bushton, Holyrood or Lorraine are invited.
The schools are operating separately, but are being governed by USD 112 Central Plains.
“We would like to have a reunion of all those that have ever coached in either of these schools and all that have ever played football at these schools,” said Steve Woolf, USD 112 superintendent. “We would like to introduce these old Wildcats, T-Birds, (Bushton) Trojans, (Holyrood) Cardinals or even Plowboys at the game. I’m looking forward to seeing all of the “old warriors” on September 3.”
Please RSVP to Steve Woolf at (785) 472-5241, or by e-mail at swoolf@usd328.org.

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Lyons News intern Godfrey Miheso assesses damage to his Sterling apartment. Sterling fire officials report a burner left on started the fire. The fire was put out by fire suppressants. (Photo by David Roe)

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Updated 8/17/10

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Lyons delivers Back-to-School feeling

Doug Higgins, Central Elementary principal, and students do their interpretation of the “Chicken Dance” Friday at the Back-to-School Barbecue at the Lyons courthouse. More than 600 people attended the event sponsored by the Lyons Chamber of Commerce. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)
(Photos by LuAnn Cobb)

By LouAnn Cobb
The Lyons courthouse square came to life Friday night when Lyons USD 405 students, faculty, families and supporters attended the Back-to-School Barbecue sponsored by Lyons Chamber of Commerce. Large shade trees provided the relief needed from the temperatures that reached 109 degrees.
Shannon Young, chamber director, declared the event an overall success. More than 600 hamburgers were served along with baked beans, chips, and free cookies courtesy of the Good Samaritan Society and Dairy Queen dilly bars from Mid-West Energy. Wendy’s gave courtesy coupons for a free frosty.
“The last successful event was in 2004,” said Young. “ We ran out of hamburgers that year. In 2005-2006 we had to cancel due to bad weather. Not doing the Barbecue for a few years we didn’t know what to expect for numbers this year.”
Students took advantage of the music provided by Big Dawgs D.J.
They smiled, laughed and wiggled to the “Hokey Pokey” and joined forces with several faculty members as they danced their own rendition of the “Chicken Dance.”
Lyons High School cheerleaders Amanda Lange, Cheyenne Nave, Ariel Engelland, Samantha Eickleberry, Nicole Meyer and Heather Crane provided some spirit wherever needed.

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Emergency personnel extricate two men from a 1981 Peterbilt truck that crossed into a ditch Thursday afternoon at U.S. 56 and 11th Road. The men escaped serious injury. (Photo by David Roe)

By Jim Misunas
Two men transported to Hutchinson with injuries sustained in a roll-over accident Thursday were treated and released at Promise Regional Medical Center. U.S. 56 at 11th Road was cleared for traffic after six hours.
Cody Goforth, Rice County undersheriff, reports that Alton Patterson, 66, of Pretty Prairie, and Steven Smith, 32, of Otis, were transported by EMS to Hutchinson.
The report indicated that Patterson was driving a 1981 Peterbilt truck westbound when a driver’s side tire blew. The vehicle crossed left of center and struck an eastbound 2007 Kenworth truck driven by William Bowman, 32, of El Dorado. An axle was sheared, but the truck pulled off the road.
Patterson’s truck crossed into the south ditch and turned on its side. Both men were trapped in the truck and required rescue by Rice County emergency personnel with Jaws of Life, but escaped serious injuries.
Two other vehicles sustained damage. An eastbound 2005 Ford Papa John’s truck driven by Delbert Kennison, 45, of Rose Hill, and an eastbound 2002 Ford F-150 driven by Derek Joiner, 30, of Ellinwood also sustained damage from debris.
Firefighters, KDOT personnel and Kansas Highway Patrol also assisted.

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Updated 8/13/10

Men escape serious injury

David Kruse (left) and Eldon Fundenberger of Lyons prepare for a trip to the 2010 Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, S.D. Both men will ride with furry friends who will help get some attention on the ride. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)

Bikers head to rally

By LuAnn Cobb
Local residents, David Kruse and Eldon Fundenberger have a love for motorcycles.
So much so in fact that the two men rolled out of Lyons Aug. 8 heading northwest to the 2010 Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, S.D., a town of 6,000. More than 800,000 bikers and fans are expected to partake in the week-long rally.
“Sturgis sits in the hub of the valley,” Kruse said.
Everything else, the impressive water holes, bike races, bike shows, campgrounds and concerts are spread out over a 150-mile radius.
“This is my second year going and the 70th annual rally for Sturgis,” Kruse said.
Fundenberger has been making the trip since 2003.
Kruse said he and Fundenberger planned one stop at Nebraska National Forest in Chadron, Neb., where they join up with Fundenberger’s brother, Vern, the mayor of Pine Valley, Wyo.
For the remainder of the trip they will travel through the Black Hills.

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More than 20 lifeguards assisted with operations of the Lyons Municipal Pool.

Lyons pool a big splash

By Jim Misunas
Numbers more than doubled and more than 20 lifeguards kept busy at the Lyons Municipal Pool.
The 2010 season started with an overflow crowd and kept humming all summer.
After nearly an entire summer of the new Lyons Pool being open, the operation seems to have been a success.
Dennis Bowersock, parks superintendent, and Leslie Barber, pool manager, said it’s been an enjoyable summer.
“They love it this year,” said Barber.
The pool, which opened at the beginning of the summer, has seen a much larger number of people in attendance than in years past, attracting well over 200 people to night swims.
The pool drew 6,859 customers in July, more than 220 per day. Bowersock said the pool matched its capacity of 300 at times.
“It was good to see people excited about the Lyons city pool again,” Bowersock said. “We more than doubled attendance.”

LESLIE BARBER

Not only are Lyons youths enjoying the pool, many teens and adults from surrounding communities such as Chase, Sterling, and Little River have found their way to the $2 million project.
“They say it’s cheaper here in Lyons,” said Barber. “A lot of pools charge more than we do.”

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Updated 8/10/10

Dairy Queen Surprise
‘Boss Hogg’ celebrates 90th

By LouAnn Cobb
Monday marked another milestone in the life of Richard Hogg of Lyons, the day he turned 90 years old. But it’s the celebration that took place Aug. 5 at the local Dairy Queen that people are still talking about. A continuous stream of well-wishers including his son, Terry Lee Hogg of Wichita, and more than 100 family and friends stopped by to offer congratulations, leave a card, share a story or two and enjoy a piece of birthday cake.

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News’ employee services Tuesday

Linda Sunley

Funeral services are scheduled at 10 a.m. Tuesday for long-time Lyons News employee Linda Sunley. Services will be conducted by Rev. Quentin Bennett at the First United Methodist Church.
Sunley, 67, died Saturday after a brief illness. She took ill after leaving work July 29. Her obituary information appears on Page 7 of today’s Lyons News.
“In many ways she was the hub of our operation,” said Lyons News publisher David Settle. “She was opinionated, stubborn, encouraging, a good friend, and honest. To lose her in this way is so tragic, She will be sorely missed.”
She was a fixture at The Lyons News for 35 years under editors John Sayler, Paul Jones and most recently, Jim Misunas.
“Linda took great pride in her work,” Misunas said. “She was a valuable newsroom resource because she knew everyone, their parents and their grandparents.”
Sunley took equal pride in her family, and checked in every day with children and grandchildren.

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‘Nuisance code’ planned

A Little River residence is smothered in debris (Photo by Jim Misunas)

Rice County commissioners gave approval to do research for a county-wide “nuisance” ordinance to prevent properties that become health hazards.
Marci Ballard, Rice County health department director, proposed researching what other cities and counties do to prevent the near-tragic circumstances that occurred recently in Little River.
Ballard was called to Little River recently to investigate a property, just outside the city limits, that was considered a local health hazard.
An 88-year-old resident was rescued from the life-threatening existence.
“The biggest bonus is I know the home-owner is safe and well cared for,” Ballard said.
Ballard investigated the property after EMS personnel advised her of unhealthy living conditions.

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Updated 8/6/10

Noble Place ‘Sittercise’ Class
Residents follow their leader

By LouAnn Cobb
It’s 10:15 Wednesday morning and the residents of Noble Place are hurrying to keep a very important appointment.
A few friends arrive to join them. Walkers are parked outside the door to the activity center.
Participants, ages 77 to 98, scurry to take their places in the circle of chairs. The room fills with idle chatter and laughter and suddenly there is silence.
Their leader, Vernon Groth, 98, gives the sign.
“It’s time to go,” he said. “Hands over your heads.”
… and Armchair Fitness begins.
This group refers to it as Sittercise but the concept is the same – a 30-minute aerobic workout with limited stress and strain designed for older people while sitting in a chair.

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Truck damages Lyons residence

By Jim Misunas
The family of James Deering was lucky.
Family members escaped potential injury when a 1993 Ford F-150 truck driven by Marco Lopez of Sterling hit a curb and damaged their home, vehicle and a garage at 710 South Clark. No one was injured in the 7 a.m. accident Wednesday.
“I heard a big bang and wondered what had happened,” said Marie Deering.
She called 9-1-1 to report the accident and saw her sons, Tanner, 9, and Tyler, 5, were asleep.
James Deering had left for work. Family members could’ve been in the front room that is home to a computer.
“There were definitely some Guardian Angels watching us,” Marie said. “It teaches you not to take things for granted.”
The house and garage sustained several thousand dollars of damage and a Ford Expedition had an estimated $2,000 damage. The Deerings will apparently be stuck with a bill for deductibles because Lopez had no insurance.

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Updated 8/3/10

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By Jim Misunas
The figures were impressive -- 28 local employees and a $3.6 million annual economic impact. The Kansas Department of Transportation aviation director said the Lyons/Rice County Airport is proof that investing in a local airport produces dividends. Edward Young, KDOT aviation director, said recent and future improvements at the Lyons/Rice County Airport will continue to benefit the local community. Lyons receives $150,000 annually from the federal fuel tax on aviation.

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Lyons kicker sparks West team

Jake Craig

PITTSBURG -- Jake Craig of Lyons High tied a Shrine Bowl record with five extra-point kicks and pinned the East at the 20-yard line with deep kickoffs. Craig kicked five extra points to help the West beat the East 45-29 Saturday. He also kicked off six times into the endzone to make the East start every drive from the 20-yard line. Craig, who played quarterback at Lyons, will play football at Pittsburg State. He played wide receiver on one of the scoring drives. He also booted a 50-yard punt. Jacob Ingham of Quivira Heights nearly had an interception on defense. He also played on special teams.

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Updated 7/30/10

40-Year Career
Tire owner to retire

Jake Adams retires from selling tires for over 40 years

Jake Adams, owner of Lyons Tire, Inc., will retire Sept. 1 after 40 years of selling and repairing tires. Adams estimates he has about 300 new tires left, which he will dispose of through normal sales or other means after the closure. Adams said several dealers ar interested in purchasing equipment. (Photo by Jim Misunas)

By Paul Jones
Forty years of selling and repairing tires will come to an end Sept. 1 for Jake Adams, owner of Lyons Tire, Inc., at the east edge of Lyons.
Adams has been in the process of winding down his very active business which most often had only one worker — him.
Ten years ago he quit doing large tractor tires; five years ago he gave up farm equipment tires.
Lyons Tire in the past has had massive inventories of tires, in the main building, in a storage building, and in a couple of truck semi trailers.
Adams estimates he has about 300 new tires left, which he will dispose of through normal sales or other means after the closure.
He also plans to sell his equipment, and has several dealers already interested in purchasing such items.
Paintings on his window claim 60,000 tires repaired by 1999, 11 years ago, and the list has not been updated, but Adams does not have an accurate figure, or even a guess.
“It’s been a lot, though,” he emphasizes.
The tire firm was at one time the OK Rubber Welders, owned by “Bo” Kelley, and housed in a building on East Main which is now home to Sauer’s Auto Body Repair.

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Employee will retire

Linda Sunley never ran the press.
But that about covers the jobs she didn’t do during her 35-year career as an employee of The Lyons Daily News, later The Lyons News.
Sunley plans to retire this weekend. Sort of.
She was expected to be back at her desk next week for one final contribution to the Lyons publication.
She has volunteered to do the painstaking, detailed work of setting into newspaper type the annual Rice County list of delinquent personal property taxes.
“I just couldn’t leave that as the first thing for a new employee to do,” she explained.
Sunley has no plans for the immediate future, other than a reception in her honor Aug. 6 in the Lyons State Bank Community Room.
She plans to continue living in Lyons, where a daughter, Susan Clark, lives. Other children are Chad Johnson of Lawrence and Janet Wadel, who lives in Missouri.
Sunley carries the title of sports editor of the paper, but Girl Friday might be a more appropriate description.
The former meat wrapper with absolutely no newspaper experience quickly went from part-time to full-time employee at the publication, and on her shoulders landed all the things that no one else seemed to have the time, or inclination, to do. That she willingly took on those tasks allowed her to learn the entire newspaper business, and was an indication of the valued employee she proved to be.

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Tax credits are available

Vern Boese (left), the current owner of the building to be rehabbed for the new Chase Senior Center, joins Elsie Sells, First Bank Chase branch manager, and Randy Cobb, president of the Lyons First Bank location.

CHASE -- A new Senior Center for Chase is one step closer to reality.
First Bank Branch Manager Elsie Sells and Clelia McCrory, ESSDACK grants specialist, ironed out details of the project during a recent Kansas Department of Commerce Community Services Tax Credits meeting in Great Bend.
Sells has agreed to be the project director for the new senior center project.
She was instrumental in helping locate the building owned by Vern Boese. Donors may now contact Sells at (620) 938-2416 to finalize their tax credit arrangements.
The Chase Senior Center was awarded $90,230 in tax credits. The current facility lacks sufficient capacity and suffers from electrical problems.
The Chase project got off the ground thanks to the initiative of McCrory and the enthusiastic response of two major donors.
First Bank directors, led by chairman Carl Dudrey voted in April to support the project in a big way.

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Democrats to hold meeting

The Rice County Democrats will meet at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, one day after Tuesday’s primary.
The meeting will be at Schirer’s Restaurant, 700 N. Grand, for hamburger night.
Father Bob Layne, retired Episcopal priest, will speak on being a Democrat in the midst of a Republican media blitz.
Anyone is welcome to attend.

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Updated 7/20/10

(Left) City of Lyons workers (from left) Kodie Swisher, Travis Miller, Dave Kendrick and Scott Smith lay rebar and work in an alleyway between E. Ave. North and W. Ave. North (Right) Employees Mike Hensley, Eric Dobbins, David Larsen, street superintendent, and Russell Douglas prepare to lay concrete in the 200 block of W. Commercial. The concrete lays the foundation for the bricks, which are edged on most curbs.
(Photos by Jim Misunas and Godfrey Miheso)

City continues alleyway work

By Jim Misunas
The city of Lyons street department crews use the summertime to catch up on all of their loose ends because of seven part-time employees.
City of Lyons streets superintendent David Larsen said crews have finished work on alleys off West Commercial, E. Ave. North and W. Ave. North, East Lyon and East First. Alleys near city hall also need to be finished.
The mill and overlay work of the alleys was done by a contractor, but the finishing work was left to city employees. A skid loader breaks the street apart and bricks bought from Beloit are relaid along with new concrete and sidewalks.
“When the city does the work, you’re usually saving some money over a contractor,” he said.
The finishing work is tied into the mill and overlay work on downtown alleys in 2008.
“Now, we are to the point where we are fixing the entrances to the alleys with new concrete and brickwork,’ Larsen said.
The trickiest part of tying in the brickwork into the concrete edging.
“Brickwork laying is like fitting a jigsaw puzzle to get them to fit,” he said.
The work is made somewhat easier by brick carrier, which can lift eight bricks.
“It’s hard work, but the guys seem to enjoy it because it’s always a little different,” he said.
The seven part-timers are taught by five full-time employees.
‘They are a great work of guys,” Larsen said. “They are all fun to work with.”
They work an early schedule from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday to beat the heat.
Larsen said their biggest concern is keeping pace when temperatures and humidity reach 100-degree levels.
“We encourage everyone to keep taking in water and stay in the shade and take breaks when they are able,” Larsen said. “The early schedule definitely helps. But they are still tired at the end of a day.”

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The Rice County District Hospital received a Business Excellence Award Friday during the Lyons Chamber Coffee. (From left) Bob Mullen, Rice County District Hospital administrator; Sheri Bennett, hospital board vice chair; Susan Sankey, Rice Community Healthcare Foundation director; and Lyle Peterson, North Central Region manager, Kansas Department of Commerce Business Development.

District Hospital honored by state

The Rice County District Hospital received a Business Excellence Award from the Kansas Department of Commerce.
Bob Mullen serves as administrator for Rice County District Hospital.
The award was one of 26 Regional Business Excellence Award winners and was the only award for the Hospital/Non-Profit category in the South Central Kansas Region.
“Our primary goal is to serve the community and it’s nice to get recognized for doing a good job by a state agency,” said Susan Sankey, hospital spokesman.
The awards mark the department’s annual celebration of Kansas businesses and their contributions to their communities and the state economy.
Each business was nominated in one of four categories -- Manufacturing/Distribution, Service, Retail and Hospital/Non-Profit.
“Kansas businesses are the backbone of our economy,” said Kansas Department of Commerce Secretary Bill Thornton. “Business Appreciation Month is our way of thanking these Kansas businesses.”

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Updated 7/16/10

Roofers strike payday in Lyons

Roofers from Erhard Roofing repair some work this summer in Lyons. Rodney Jenkins of Erhard Roofing said crews have been busy all summer. More than 25 businesses have applied for roofing building permits in the city of Lyons. (Photo by Jim Misunas)

By Jim Misunas
The bill for Lyons USD 405 buildings was more than $50,000. It was also more than $50,000 for buildings owned by Rice County District Hospital No. 1.
For the city of Lyons, the tab was more than $20,000.
A late-night April spring hailstorm caused more damage than orginally estimated. Residents who had little or no damage to their vehicles have hadtheir roofs replaced.
Roofer Rodney Jenkins, who works for Erhard Roofing, resides in Lyons and heard the hail striking that night.
“I heard as big as baseball-size hail, but there were cases where one house had damage and the one next door did not,” he said. “I would recommend people get their house inspected.”

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Students enjoy Camp Wa-Ja-To

By Godfrey Miheso
Lyons News Intern
Camp Wa-Ja-To Camp recently marked the fifth anniversary of its annual Catholic kids summer camp.
The week-long camp has been in existence for the past 12 years with success in strengthening Catholic faith within Rice County and neighboring counties.
Camp Director David Doss is studying to be a pries. He has been in charge for five summers and laments how challenging it has been bringing the kids together.
"We have been coming up with random teams within the camp for the kids to make new friends and learn new skills,” he said.
The program is conducted by 10 counselors from different Midwestern colleges.
This camp lasts for four to five days with a variety of group activities that involve the councilors.
During the morning, teams perform a variety of core activities for the first hour of cabin time.

Students enjoy a variety of activities during a recent camp at Camp Wa-Ja-To, south of Lyons. (Photos by Godfrey Miheso)

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Updated 7/9/10

(Left) L&M Construction employee Saul Perales digs up the sidewalk near Lyons Middle School recently. (Right) L&M employees Elliaquin Torrez and Perales work on edging a curb during a recent visit to Lyons. Phase II cost $250,000. (Photos by Ryan Corwin and Jim Misunas)

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L&M finishes Safe Routes to Schools

L&M Construction employee Ludy Lopez edges a sidewalk near Lyons Middle School recently. (Photo by Ryan Corwin)

By Ryan Corwin
Lyons News Intern
L&M Construction of Great Bend has finished construction on replacing existing sidewalks and installing ramps in compliance with ADA regulations as part of the Safe Routes to Schools federal grant program.
The project, which was started in 2007 with an engineering study entered Phase II of construction in the past year. However there were many variables that affect the completion of the project.
Brian Fry of the Kansas Department of Transportation said this is so because there is no actual deadline for the completion -- something that is greatly determined by two variables.
“Money and working days are what it is based on,” Fry said.
Because funding for the project is limited by the amount of money given by the grant, the progress of the project is in turn slowed down.
Another reason that the project in Lyons has taken longer is the sloping of landscape in the area making it difficult for L&M to comply with federal regulations in regard to the steepness of ramps.
“Some sections took a lot longer to get done because of the number of hills,” Fry said.

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KDOT gives city of Lyons good news

KDOT SPOKESMAN RON SEITZ

By Jim Misunas
A Kansas Department of Transportation spokesman gave the city of Lyons encouraging construction news.
Ron Seitz, area KDOT spokesman, presented a letter from Melinda Desch, KDOT program management engineer, and confirmed that money will be available for future road projects.
John Sweet, city of Lyons administrator, said a 2012 KLINK resurfracing project was on hold because of the uncertainty of state road funding.
The city of Lyons is responsible for maintenance of K-14/K-96 through the city of Lyons in an agreement with KDOT.

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Updated 7/2/10

Rice County Relay sets record

(Left) Survivors dine in the Boy Scout cabin before the Survivor Lap at Workman Park. (Right) Heidi Showalter (left) and Barb Sechrist of Lyons greet spectators next to Showalter’s “Pirates of the Curabean” tent set up at Friday’s Relay for Life. (Photos by Ryan Corwin)

By Daylene Linville
Publicity Co-Chair
“We have tried for so long to reach the goal of$20,000 and this year, we’ve finally done it.” said Debbie Konen, Rice County Relay for Life co-chairman.
Konen said the Rice County planning committee members were very pleased with the turn out from the community for the 2010 Relay For Life event at Workman Park June 25.
During the evening several residents expressed their approval of moving the Relay event back to Workman Park.
“It’s just more family friendly,” said Connie Jones, who attended the activities Friday evening.
Incorporating the carnival games for the children and the talent show for the adults kept the attendees entertained for several hours.
The carnival games were a new activity which provided an added fund-raiser for the Relay For Life event.
The opening ceremony began at 7 p.m. with the “Star Spangled Banner,” sung by Ashley Showalter, followed by the Survivor Victory lap.
Rev. Bob Friesen delivered the invocation prayer. The relay teams were introduced and they began their first lap in the park among hundreds of luminaria.

Luminaria kept the light shining throiughout the night at Workman Park. Survivor and volunteers gave approval for the move back to Workman Park. (Photo by Ryan Corwin)

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Firecracker sellers enjoy business

Brenda Tucker (left) and Kavae Kroetsch spend their July 4 holiday selling fireworks at K-N-K Fireworks. (Photo by Ryan Corwin)

By Ryan Corwin
Lyons News Intern
For the past 11 years, Lyons natives Kavae Kroetsch and Brenda Tucker of K-N-K Fireworks have been taking time off from their full-time jobs when July rolls around.
The two combine sweat, hard work, and many hours of labor focusing on one thing -- fireworks.
Well, that and entertaining their family as well as all families in the Lyons area with their fireworks stand located on 115 S. Grand just north of The Lyons Foodliner.
“We got into it to do family fireworks because a lot of stands in the area don’t focus on kids’ stuff,” said Kroetsch.

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No Lyons News for Tuesday

The Lyons News office will be closed Monday for the Fourth of July holiday. No Lyons News will be published Tuesday, July 6.
The Central Kansas Rocket, delivered by local carriers, will be available for pickup and delivery Monday and Tuesday.

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Updated 6/29/10

Rice County Relay for Life 2010

(Top) Ashley Corwin of Sterling ties a survivor sash on her daughter, Kalyssa, 4, during the Relay for Life of Rice County. (Below) Teams walk at Workman Park after the Survivor lap. (Photos by Ryan Corwin)

By Ryan Corwin
Lyons News Intern
Rice County citizens gathered in Lyons at Workman Park on Friday night for the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life annual walk to raise awareness and money for the fight against cancer.
“The world with less cancer and more birthdays gets closer with each Relay for Life,” Hannah Solis, American Cancer Society volunteer said in the event’s opening. “We have gathered as a community to ensure that those who are fighting against cancer will be supported.”
The event had raised $21,590 through the sales of luminaries and donations. The event drew the support of many throughout the community for those who are currently fighting cancer and those who have lost their loved ones to cancer.

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Undersheriff enjoys new role

Recently-appointed Rice County Undersheriff Cody Goforth has worked for the Rice County sheriff’s department since 1999.

By Jim Misunas
Rice County Undersheriff Cody Goforth has pledged his career to his hometown county. The Quivira Heights graduate has worked for the Rice County sheriff’s department since 1999.
Goforth said he went into law enforcement because of the responsibility the job carries.
“I like the fact people rely on you and you are entrusted to protect people,” he said.
Rice County Sheriff Dale Higgins appointed Goforth to the undersheriff position May 26 to replace the retiring Harlan Brown. By statute, the sheriff is required to appoint an undersheriff to act as the sheriff in his absence.

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Woman hurt in accident

Glenna Diane Hass of Sterling was transported to Hutchinson’s Promise Regional Medical Center following an accident in Reno County Thursday afternoon.
Hass, 31, was transported by Reno County EMS at 7:45 p.m. Thursday.
Hass was operating a 2005 Dodge Caravan eastbound on K-96 when she lost control of the vehicle for a undetermined reason. The vehicle was heavily damaged.
Reno County deputies, Nickerson firefighters, and EMS personnel responded to an injury accident four miles west of Nickerson.

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Updated 6/25/10

Rice County Relay for Life 2010

(Right) Kalyssa, 4, walks with her mother, Ashley Corwin, during the 2009 Relay for Life of Rice
County at Wheaton Track. (Left) Cancer survivors start their journey around the track during the 2009 Relay for Life of Rice County at Lyons High School.

The 2010 Rice County Relay For Life event will begin at 5:30 p.m. Friday at the Lyons Boy Scout cabin with registration and a free dinner for all cancer survivors. Carnival games open at 6 p.m. at Workman Park.
The 2010 Relay for Life event returns to Workman Park after several years Buller Field’s Wheaton Track at Lyons High School. “We hope the return to Workman Park will increase community participation in the event,” said Debbie Konen, co-chairman, during a recent planning committee meeting.

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Mayor Cowan resigns

City of Lyons Mayor Jim Cowan (left) receives a plaque to recognize his years of service to the city of Lyons from Joe Cedeno.

By Jim Misunas
City of Lyons Mayor Jim Cowan resigned Monday, citing health reasons.
Joe Cedeno, vice mayor of the city council, will assume the duties of the mayor at the July 6 council meeting.
Cowan has served the city council in Ward 3 since 2003, moving to mayor on April 20, 2009.
He was a pivotal figure on the Lyons Pool Committee, which helped lead the synergy to construct the $2.1 million Lyons Municipal Pool in 2009-2010. The committee recommended a new pool and the city council approved a half-cent city sales tax which funded the project.
Ironically, Cowan missed the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the pool, one of his biggest achievements, because of health issues.
“It’s been a wonderful thing to work with you,” Cowan said to members of the city council and city officials. “But I’ve got to resign for health reasons.”
John Sweet, Lyons city administrator, delivered a PowerPoint presentation which highlighted many of Cowan’s shining moments, including ceremonies for Head Start, the City of Lyons Geometric Project, the Airport runway dedication, Country Place Living Assisted Living Center and the Lyons Kids Water Coloring Contest.

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Farm wreck injures man

Michael Caywood of Sterling was transported to Hutchinson’s Promise Regional Medical Center following a wheat farming accident Monday afternoon.
Caywood was treated and released for lacerations. He was transported by Rice County EMS.
Caywood was operating a 1976 Ford 9000 vehicle northbound on 9th Road when the passenger tires slipped off the road. Caywood attempted to get back onto the roadway, but overcorrected and the vehicle rolled onto its top and blocked the roadway.
The vehicle was totaled and the wheat shipment was lost.
Deputies, Lyons and Alden firefighters, Rice County Haz-Mat and EMS personnel responded to an injury accident at 9th Road and Ave. X at 2:03 p.m. Monday.

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Strike averted at North American

A federal mediator from Kansas City, Mo. has hammered out a contract for union workers at North American Salt.
“It’s been ratified, which is a good deal,” said Art Stevens, Region 6 director for the National Chemical Workers union.
Specific details on the new three-year contract were not available.
Patrick Dunn, a federal mediator, settled the contract after workers authorized a strike recently.
Workers at North American Salt approved a new contract, avoiding a strike at the plant. The agreement ended more than 40 days of contract negotiations, according to a local union president and chief negotiator for National Chemical Workers Local 278C.
“Every bit of the unions negotiated gains between the company’s first proposal and the last proposal I attribute to the local union members,” wrote Marshall Christmann in an e-mail. “Their strength and courage in voting to strike makes them the true heroes in my mind. They have given us the bargaining power at the table needed to bring this to a close.”
The Lyons plant, is a part of the parent Compass Minerals Company.

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Updated 6/22/10

Stone Corral location Santa Fe Trail marker dedicated

By John Sayler
As though on cue Saturday morning, dark clouds roiling to the northwest cleared.
Edgar Grover of Hutchinson straightened his flag; then stood at attention in his colonial attire, the uniform of a soldier in George Washington’s Continental Army. Commemoration of the Stone Corral Santa Fe Trail marker, by Daughters of the American Revolution, Kansas Society, was under way.
Gathered at the Rice County location, c south side of Avenue P, mile and a half west of Plum Street, were two dozen visitors from various parts of Kansas, the largest contingent from the Kansas City area; led by Shirley Coupal, State Regent of the Kansas Society Daughters of the American Revolution.

Edgar Grover, in his replica Continental Army uniform, was a center of attention during Saturday’s commemoration ceremony at the Rice County trail marker.

Shirley Coupal, State Regent of the Kansas Society Daughters of the American Revolution, takes refuge in the shade of a van lid to conduct a commemoration of the Stone Corral Santa Fe Trail marker. Several dozen people attended the ceremony at south side of Avenue P, mile and a half west of Plum Street. (Photos by John Sayler)

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Whooping cough case treated in Rice County

The Rice County Health Department is reporting a case of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, in the county.
The case was reported June 16 and proper treatment has apparently taken care of the child.
Babies under the age of 12 months are most susceptible to the illness.
“It is critical that children, and parents, get vaccinated for pertussis to prevent this difficult and highly contagious illness,” said Marci Leake, Rice County health department administrator. “It can be easily spread to other family members and community members. This should help reduce the number of cases in children who are too young to be fully vaccinated.”

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Dogs help save owner

Ed Behnke’s home in the 200 block of Monroe was a total loss after a fire June 15.

By Jim Misunas
FREDERICK -- Ed Behnke is a sound sleeper.
Fortunately, for him his dogs, Crash and Kiowa, wake up easily.
Crash, a Miniature Pinscher, and Kiowa, an Australian Blue Heeler, woke Behnke when they apparently smelled smoke in the early morning of June 15.
“They were really antsy and kept bugging me to wake up,” Behnke said. “They eventually woke me up and I smelled a smoldering smell like trash burning.”
Behnke quickly realized his home was about ready to start burning, apparently from a electrical fire in the attic.
“I saw an orange glow, a little bit of a flicker,” he said. “I realized my attic was engulfed by fire.”
He called 9-1-1 and Chase, Bushton and Geneseo firefighters and EMS personnel responded to the structure fire in the 200 block of Monroe at 5:19 a.m. June 15.
“I appreciate everyone’s help who responded, all the fire departments and the American Red Cross,” he said.
Behnke said his house, insured for $89,000 is likely a total loss, but his insurance should cover the damages.
“I was pretty lucky. Thank goodness I’ve got those dogs because they saved my life,” he said.

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Updated 6/18/10

Drivers who ignore signs ticketed

Rice County drivers had to bypass high water on several county roads including 22nd Road and Ave. V because of the rising Cow Creek. Deputies have ticketed several drivers who chose to ignore “Road Closed” signs. (Photo by Jim Misunas)

By Jim Misunas
As Cow Creek continued to rise Tuesday and Wednesday, Rice County public works employees and deputies were alerted to water crossing several county roads.
“Road closed,” signed were posted and road blocks barricaded traffic only to local homeowners on 22nd Road at 1:46 p.m. Tuesday. Several non residents were ticketed for crossing over the raging water and one driver was arrested for having a suspended license. Water crossed over the road in several spots on 22nd Road.
Most tickets written were in the vicinity of 22nd Road and Ave. V between 4 and 8 p.m. Most cross roads from 22nd to 31st Road on Ave. V were posted for high water.
“Those barricades are intended to protect drivers from themselves,” said Cody Goforth, Rice County undersheriff. “There were deputies writing tickets for specifically driving around the barricades and driving through the high water,” Goforth said. “You are permitted to write a ticket for simply ignoring a posted “road closed,” sign unless you have a specific destination for work or have your home there.”
After receiving reports from emergency personnel about vehicles crossing over the high water, Goforth said deputies were assigned to monitor the situation.
“Most drivers will tell you that they have driven through high water before and haven’t had problems,” Goforth said. “Some don’t think those ‘road closed,’ signs are meant for them. The problem with water crossing the road is you never know how much erosion and damage the road has undergone when you drive over it.”

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Lyons Salt Company projects progressing

Lyons Salt Company has storage capacity for 135,000 tons of salt.

By Paul Jones
While change the most visible to the public has been a completely new entrance to the Lyons Salt Company facility at the southeast edge of Lyons, it is far from the only changes at the local mining company which has seen the production rate at least doubled in the past 10 years.
Ken Grimm, executive vice-president of the BSC Holding Company which is owned by Peter Powell of Kansas City and which owns the Lyons facility, said much of the current emphasis of Lyons Salt is in positioning it for operations many years into the future, and to accomplish this, considerable money is being put back into the facility.
The big white barn, constructed several years ago to allow storage of deicing salt which is produced year around to be readily available for the winter season, is now more than half full.
It has a capacity of 135,000 tons, and now has about 80,000 in storage, a good situation for this time of year, Grimm said, especially in view of the fact that salt demand remains high.

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Sterling homeowners pump out basements

The north side of Sterling had flooding issues Monday and Tuesday, including the Sterling Community Cemetery. Sterling has a high water table on the north side. (Photo by Mary Lou Hurtado)

By Ryan Corwin
Lyons News Intern
STERLING -- After last weekend’s storms Sterling, like many communities in Kansas, is experiencing flooding on neighboring country roads and in the basements of many in town.
A simple stroll down virtually any street in Sterling will reveal a site that is all too familiar for Sterling’s population -- water being pumped from someone’s basement.
Sterling City Manager Rod Willis is among those who have had water seep into their basement as a result of last weekend’s storms.
Willis recalled last year’s flooding saying, “it is as deep as it was then or even a little deeper.”

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Updated 6/15/10

Lyons Middle School seventh-graders reshaped the school’s pond for three years before the work was completed. (Above) Teacher Sally Robinson and LMS students Kylee Martinez, Kregg Clarke and Austin Calhoun carefully move the limestone with Casha Miller, Hallie Dodson, Jasmin Morales and Kasey Miller watching. (Below) Students Colleen Martinez, Emily Hazen, Matthew Konda and Dakota Nave work on the pond.

Middle School pond a labor of love

Lyons Middle School seventh-graders reshaped the school’s pond for three years before the work was completed this spring. The middle school received a grant in 2007.

By Sally Robinson
Lyons Middle School
Lyons Middle School applied for a grant from Lowe’s to help rebuild a pond that had become a safety hazard and to finish a seating/study area opposite the pond.
The pond was surrounded by round river rock that slid into the pond when the students and neighborhood kids stood on the edge.
LMS received the grant in the fall of 2007 and intended to do all the work that first year, but the process has taken three years to complete.
The seventh-grade science classes have done all the work in small steps because much of the time spent in the outdoor classroom is needed to cover required curriculum.

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Weekend storms bring high water

By Jim Misunas
A few Rice County roads experienced water over the roads because of weekend rain.
John Achatz, Rice County public works director, kept expecting Cow Creek to provide some flooding problems.
“Anytime Claflin, Bushton and Hoisington receive heavy rain, we expect come problems,” Achatz said.
But so far, 20th Road near Ave. S was one of the few county roads with water passing over the roadway.
“If we hear something from dispatch, we’ll send someone out with a barricade,” he said. “Night-time flooding is the most dangerous because you can drive into it before you see it.”
Water crossed K-14 Sunday afternoon north and south of Sterling. Water was seeping into the vacant Lucky’s Store and neighborhoods on the north side of Sterling had water in their basements.
Thunderstorms were reported Saturday and Sunday evening in Rice County.
Power outages were reported in the city of Lyons and outlying areas Sunday evening. Several tree limbs were broken during Sunday’s thunderstorm.
Some isolated Rice County locations reported five to eight inches of rain.
The strongest thunderstorms were producing rainfall rates of three to four inches per hour during the afternoon and evening.

Lyons firefighters use foam to battle a vehicle fire; south of the Lyons Town & Country Club Thursday. A 1992 Chevy Lumina driven by Nathaniel Cline of Lyons was totaled after an apparent electrical fire. Rice County firefighters Dave Kendrick, Rick Miller, Mark Johnson, John Griffith, Rex Brown and Remington Blake worked the fire. (Photo by Paul Jones)

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Updated 6/11/10

Land Bank building to be razed

Land Bank in Lyons to be razed

A building at 132 E. Ave South in downtown Lyons that was accepted for the Lyons Land
Bank program will be destroyed.

The first property to be placed in the City of Lyons’ Land Bank Program will be destroyed rather than put into productive use.
The Lyons City Council has agreed to seek bids for demolition of the building at 132 East Avenue South, at the southeast corner of the City Square.
When the council first looked at the property, it was hoped the property might be put back to use. Back taxes were owed by out-of-state owner Leonardo Modi, who deeded the property to the city.
But an inspection by city inspector Larry Brownell indicted the building was in disrepair.
“The roof had holes in it and the floors were waterlogged,” said Jeff Porter, city of Lyons community development coordinator.
Porter said removal will be tricky since it’s attached to a neighboring building.

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Sterling College Senior
Kenyan, is summer intern at the Lyons News

Godfrey Miheso, Kenya is the Lyons News Intern studying at Sterling College.

By Godfrey Miheso
Lyons News Intern
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Godfrey Miheso and I was born in Nairobi, Kenya on March 25, 1982. I am a twin brother to Wycliffe and brother to Suzan, Nesbitt, and Brenda, all children of a carpenter, Latan Miheso. My mother, Margaret Nangila Miheso, a small scale-grocer, has been the greatest influence in my life. She’s helped me develop into a God-fearing young man, soccer icon, role model and journalist. Like most African children, I had an equal opportunity to socialize and grow through the tough economic status in urban Kenya.
At the age of 7, I was recruited as a sponsored child with Compassion International (CI) a journey that saw me grow to be a well-shaped Christian and dependable member of society. CI project in Kibera had a program that was a good fit for children like me to allow growth with little or no vulnerability to drugs and other vises that include violence arising from political instability. I joined Mbagathi Road Primary School with Wycliffe and Suzan and successfully made it to high school after eight years.

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Lyons streets to see repair work

On Wednesday, June 16 through Friday, June 18, several Lyons city streets will be closed or partially closed for slurry seal resurfacing.
The work is part of the city of Lyons continuing street maintenance program.
The work is being done by South Central Ssealing/Ferguson Paving LLC
One lane will be left open each day for through traffic, if possible.
All intersections will remain open.
Home-owners are requested to cooperate by not parking on the street from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday when work is going on.
If home-owners need to move your car during these hours, it is requested that drivers please park outside the work area. Your cooperation is appreciated.
CLOSED WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16
North Side East Blair (Bell to Workman)
South Side Target Drive (Dinsmore to Cul-de-Sac)
South Side Arrowhead Drive (Reed Ave. to Target Drive)
North Side West Truesdell (Pioneer to west dead end)
West Side North St. John (First Street to 2nd Street)
North Side West Noble Street ( West Ave to Pioneer)
Both Sides North State Street (Main north to dead end)
CLOSED THURSDAY, JUNE 17
South Side East Blair (Bell to Workman)
North Target Drive (Dinsmore to cul-de-sac)
North Arrowhead Drive (Reed Ave to Target Drive)
South West Truesdell (Pioneer to west dead end)
East Side North St. John (1st Street to 2nd Street)
South Side West Noble Street ( West Ave to Pioneer)
Both Sides North State Street (Main north to dead end)
CLOSED FRIDAY, JUNE 18
Lyons High School, South Entrance, Circle Drive East Entrance, North Parking Lot
• Make necessary arrangements so you will not have to drive on the side of the street scheduled for slurry sealing
• Do not park on either side of the street.
• Move any vehicles from the street before 8 a.m.
• Do not allow lawn watering to run off into the street or to spray towards the street.
• Please be aware that the liquid asphalt will stick to shoes and tires and is difficult to remove.
• Keep children and pets away from the streets.

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An employee working for Stevens Contractors on a waterline project cut a gas line at Truesdell and South St. John Wednesday. The work is back on schedule.

Worker cuts gas line

By Jim Misunas
An employee for Stevens Contractors cut a gas line, causing a brief delay to a Lyons waterline project Wednesday morning.
David Addington, foreman for Stevens Contractors of Salina, has a crew working on waterlines on South St. John, St. Francis, Douglas, Taylor, Serra, DeWitt and Truesdell.
Addington said the work involves replacement of a 4-inch waterline with an 8-inch waterline located on South St. John.
The gas line was cut at 9;30 a.m. Wednesday at the intersection of South St. John and Truesdell where a tie-in to a 4-inch valve is located.

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Updated 6/8/10

Central Elementary School continues a 19-year tradition of raising money for the Nature Conservanacy. (Left) Helen Friesen’s students Chloe Tharp, Kelsey Renollet, Dashanae McClellan and Charlie Tovar enjoy enjoy the hut created by Mr. Friesen. (Right) Rhonda Feldman’s students Trenten Brauer, Dakota Procopio, Raven Kearns and Sarah Denton sell cookies and fruit punch to raise money to save Rainforest acres. (Below) Lynne Bush’s students Janeeth Martinez, Karime Vargas and Ryan Birzer show a rainstick, one of their many class projects.

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Central’s rainforest tradition

Central Elementary School in Lyons has continued a rainforest tradition.
For 19 years, the school children of Lyons have been raising money to save Rainforest Acres.
It started with five years of work at Park School and has continued for 14 years at Central Elementary.
The money is donated to the Nature Conservancy, in Arlington, Va.
The Conservancy has many projects for environmental work, and their Adopt-an-Acre of Rainforest has saved more than 600,000 acres of Rainforests in Central and South America, Asia, the Caribbean, and Africa since 1991.
The acres cost $50 apiece, and the money is mainly used to put the acres into preserves.
With the money we have earned this year, the school children of Lyons will have saved more than 100 acres since the project began in 1992.
The 2010 project developed into the best year ever.
Despite of the uncertain economy and tight budgets, parents, grandparents, students, and friends banded together to raise $750 for the Central School Rainforest Project.
The third-graders spearheaded the project as a part of their science studies, and the rest of Central School supported this cause.
The third-graders raised the money through donations, penny-pledges, and cookie and fruit punch sales.
The money raised will reserve 15 acres of acres on the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica in the name of Central School, Lyons, Kansas!
If you would like to know more about the Nature Conservancy, visit their web sites: www.nature.org or www.adoptanacre.org.

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Sterling owners will manage Vet Clinic

By Paul Jones
The transfer of ownership of the Lyons Veterinary Clinic from Dr. Ken Burton to Dr. Scott Randolph and his sister, Dr. Debra Randolph-Zwick, owners of the Ark Valley Veterinary Clinic in Sterling, was announced this week, and takes effect immediately, with a new veterinarian expected to join the combined staffs next week.
Dr. Burton, a 1981 graduate of the Kansas State University School of Veterinary Medicine who moved to Lyons. with Dr. Verle Carlson in 1982 after purchasing the clinic from Dr. Jay Fankhauser, has taken a position with Kansas State University’s National Agriculture Biosecurity Center, and already is working in that position.
His wife, Joan, secretary/treasurer of the Lyons Federal Bank, continues to work in that position in Lyons awaiting the sale of their home here. The Burton children are grown and not living in Lyons.
The Sterling veterinarians have announced the hiring of Dr. Jessica Winter, a 2010 graduate of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University, will begin June 14.
All present staff members in the two locations will be retained, the Sterling doctors said, and all three veterinarians will work at the two locations.
Dr. Burton purchased his partner’s interest when Dr. Carlson became staff veterinarian for Knight Feedlot.
Several other veterinary doctors have practiced here since then, but basically it has been a one-vet operation. The clinic building, on North Grand Avenue, underwent a major expansion in 2007.
The Sterling Bulletin, in a story in last week's edition, said of the new veterinarian:
“Winter has been a student in the (KSU) college’s Veterinary Training Program for Rural Kansas since 2006, following her undergraduate studies at K-State where she earned a bachelor of science degree in animal science and industry and pre-veterinary medicine.
“Her studies also have included emergency treatment and critical care of horses in the equine intensive care unit at K-State’s teaching hospital.

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Habitat House underway

By Jim Misunas
ALDEN -- Brian Treaster saw first hand how difficult it is to find a Habitat for Humanity family.
The Rice County deputy also serves as police chief of Bushton and remembers the city’s quest to find a willing family. You’ve got to make money, but not too much, not too little.
The thought occurred to Treaster -- Why not me?
Treaster had the willingness to work and his wife, Cassie, had the patience to fill out the forms -- and wait.
Together they are the donor family in Alden who will inherit a brand-new home.

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Updated 6/4/10

(Top) Several people paid tribute to relatives by laying flowers on a grave site marked for “Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.” at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery. (Below) United States flags decorated the entrance of the Lyons Municipal Cemetery for the annual Memorial Day service. The keytote speaker was Bob Wilson of Lyons, a former Veterans of Foreign Wars district commander, and former and soon to be again commander of the Lyons VFW Post. See more photos, page 6. (Photos by Paul Jones and Jacque Modrow)

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Rice County Memorial Day

By Paul Jones
Scores of Lyons-area residents were on hand Monday morning at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery for the annual Memorial Day service.
The speaker was Bob Wilson, U.S. Navy (retired) of Lyons, a former Veterans of Foreign Wars district commander, and former and soon to be again commander of the Lyons VFW Post 3184.
Wilson paid tribute to “the memory of those who have come before,” but added that “we are reminded to do everything within our power to support our soldiers sailors, airmen, marines and coast guard men.”
“Our responsibility and obligation to our veterans should not end when the last rally is over. Veterans deserve better than that. The defenders of this nation fulfilled their duty and obligation to us and we have an equal duty to honor and fulfill our obligations to them.”
The master of ceremonies at the service was James Blake, the outgoing Lyons VFW commander. Rev. Ronald DeVore of the Lyons First Christian Church gave the invocation.
Services were also conducted at Little River, Geneseo and Sterling.
Little River’s ceremony featured Master of Ceremonies Pastor Grant Davis. The Little River American Legion Post No. 258 participated. Guest speaker was Thomas D. Arnhold, 35th Infantry Division.
Pastors Ted Weis; and Theresa Forshee and trumpeters Natalie Petz and Megan Barta participated. Lunch was served at the American Legion building.
The Geneseo Cemetery featured guest speaker Rep. Bob Bethell and the Buffalo Soldiers.
Sterling’s ceremony was conducted by Sterling American Legion Post 128. The guest speaker will be Wayne C. Doyle, Lt. Col. Marine Corps (retired), followed by the playing of “Taps” and a 21-gun salute. Lunch was be served by the American Legion Auxiliary.

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Lyons pool has rousing start

Memories flooded back for long-time residents of Lyons when the new pool opened to more than 500 people Memorial Day.
Riggs Dimmitt was the first person to use the new diving board.
Residents such as Paul Jones, a former Lyons mayor, turned back the clock to fond childhood memories. Jones was there the first day the former pool opened and the last day it was open.
Longtime friends Sherry Dobbins and Sally (Martin) Mullen enjoyed free swim passes for tending to the Baby Pool for those ages 3 to 5. It was their first “job,” before they graduated to the concession stand.
May Spear, 912 Terran, is finally selling her neighborhood house built in 1949. Minix Realty is selling the property.
“We had the first house built on the block and saw the last pool built,” Spear said. “It’s a beautiful new pool.” \

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Updated 5/28/10

Cities to honor Memorial Day

Lyons, Sterling, Little River and Geneseo will honor veterans on Memorial Day.

• LYONS 10 a.m. Memorial Day, Invocation by Rev. Ronald DeVore, First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ. The guest speaker will be Robert Wilson, U.S. Navy (retired). He is a past VFW Post 3184 commander and a former District Commander.
The color guard, flag detail and saluting the flag will be performed by Lyons VFW Post No. 3184.
Lunch will be served at the VFW Post No. 3184.

• LITTLE RIVER 10:30 a.m. Memorial Day ceremony, Bean Memorial Cemetery; Master of Ceremonies, Pastor Grant Davis; Color guard, flag detail and saluting the flag by Little River American Legion Post No. 258; Guest speaker, Thomas D. Arnhold, 35th Infantry Division; Invocation by Pastor Ted Weis; Benediction by Pastor Theresa Forshee; Taps, Natalie Petz and Megan Barta.
Refreshments will be served at Little Rover Senior Center. Lunch will be served at the American Legion building.
In case of bad weather, the service is scheduled at the Little River American Legion building.

• GENESEO 11 a.m. Memorial Day Ceremony at the Geneseo Cemetery.
The guest speaker will be Rep. Bob Bethell. Also in attendance will be the Buffalo Soldiers.

• STERLING 11 a.m. Memorial Day ceremony conducted by Sterling American Legion Post 128.
The guest speaker will be Wayne C. Doyle, Lt. Col. Marine Corps (retired), followed by the playing of “Taps” and a 21-gun salute. Lunch will be served by the American Legion Auxiliary.

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Pool dedication scheduled

(Left) The old pool lasted nearly 50 years. City of Lyons parks superintendent Dennis Bowersock said daily pool maintenance will be much easier with the new pool (right). The pool opens at 1 p.m. Memorial Day. Normal open pool hours will be 12:30 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday to Thursday; noon to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday. City of Lyons residents swim free. There is a charge for out-of-town swimmers, but anyone may buy a season pass.

By Jim Misunas
The Lyons Municipal Pool will start a new era Friday morning.
A ribbon-cutting is scheduled at 9 a.m. Friday at the Lyons Municipal Pool.
“It has been a pleasure working with Prosser-Wilbert,” said John Sweet, city of Lyons administrator. “This has been a good project and a good thing for the city of Lyons.”
City of Lyons vice mayor Joe Cedeno will speak on behalf of the city council.
Mike Young, a current city council member, will represent the city’s pool committee, which did much of the preliminary work on the project.
Prosser-Wilbert Construction, Inc. will be represented by Mark Clayton and Jeff Haney. Michael Fisher will represent Water’s Edge Aquatic Design.
Other dignitaries will be city of Lyons parks superintendent Dennis Bowersock; and pool manager Leslie Barber.
Twenty part-time employees will work at the pool.

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Class 3A State Golf

Sterling High’s Michael Gellerman blasts out of a greenside bunker Monday at No. 16 at Smoky Hill Country Club. Gellerman, a two-time state champion, finished in fifth place in the Class 3A State Championship with a 6-over-77 Monday. See story, Page 7. (Photo by Jim Misunas)

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Updated 5/25/10

New pool a welcome relief

City of Lyons parks superintendent Dennis Bowersock is responsible for day-to-day maintenance of the Lyons Municipal Pool. Bowersock said his daily pool maintenance will be easier with the new pool. The pool opens May 31. Open pool hours will be 12:30 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday to Thursday; noon to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday. (Photos by Jim Misunas)

By Jim Misunas
If you’re lucky, summertime means spending time by the pool relaxing.
Dennis Bowersock has spent much of his recent summers at the Lyons Municipal Pool -- but it’s been anything but relaxing.
There’s little doubt the pool has been Bowersock’s baby. The city of Lyons parks superintendent is responsible for maintenance issues at the pool, which developed into more than 30 hours a week as the aging pool developed problems. His pool duties prevented him from his usual mowing duties at city parks.
However, the grand opening of the $2.1 million Lyons Municipal Pool has ended Bowersock’s constant baby-sitting at the old pool. The ribbon-cutting is scheduled at 9 a.m. Friday at the Lyons Municipal Pool.

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New equipment will benefit park

Park Elementary students helped with the selection of playground equipment that will benefit Tobias Park by the new city of Lyons Municipal Pool.
Playground Systems will provide equipment valued at $11,554 for 2010-2011 for Tobias Park.
A special parks and recreation fund paid for the equipment. That money is derived from an alcohol tax and the general fund.
The previous equipment was Jungle Jim Bars at Tobias Park. The Jungle Jim Bars still has some usefulness and will be moved to the Overnight Trailer Park.
John Sweet, city of Lyons administrator, said it’s nice to buy updated equipment.
“This helps the city do some renovation work for the parks,” he said. “It’s allowed us to purchase new playground equipment and new park benches.”

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USD 405 hears good news

By Jim Misunas
Lyons USD 405 was well prepared for anything the state legislature passed its way.
But Lyons USD Superintendent Gary Sechrist said the school board was relieved that the legislature has maintained level per pupil funding comparable to 2009-2010 for the upcoming 2010-2011 school year.
“We were well prepared. We were ready to go with a variety of options, up to $400,000 in cuts in spending from last year,” Sechrist said. “I guess it shows you where we’ve been that we’re applauding keeping spending at the same level as last year. We all know costs are still rising from year-to-year.”
The Lyons USD 405 school board recently passed a motion to allow Sechrist to take action to replace the three teacher retirees at Central Elementary and to implement the $100,000; or the $200,000 budget cut options contingent upon the action taken in Topeka.

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Updated 5/21/10

Each Sterling Grade School class joined Tuesday’s ceremony one at a time. Students J.J. Oden, Garrett Sankey, Annie Sauer, Mardee Thompson, Edward Weiner and Kaci Wilson, joined Lt. Commander Brian Foster with flag ceremonies Tuesday. (Photos by Jim Misunas)

Sterling Grade School honored

By Jim Misunas
STERLING -- Sterling Grade School was given a proper sendoff Tuesday, giving the students a few extra days off from school.
The Sterling Grade School building was formally “retired” after 83 years of service.
Lt. Commander Brian Foster directed six Sterling Grade School students as the Last Flag Color Guard as part of the retirement ceremony. Students J.J. Oden, Garrett Sankey, Annie Sauer, Mardee Thompson, Edward Weiner and Kaci Wilson joined Lt. Commander Foster.

Sterling Grade School graduates Dick Wellman, 89, and Wilma Caywood, 94, were honored during Tuesday’s ceremony.
(Photo by Jim Misunas)

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Rice undersheriff will retire May 27

Undersheriff Harlan Brown visits with Ruth and Dale Evans.

By Paul Jones
A 33-year career in law enforcement, which included 31 years as a county undersheriff, the longest in Kansas history, is coming to an end with the retirement May 27 of Harlan Brown.
Brown, a Lyons native, has served as the Rice County undersheriff since 1979, with the most remarkable part having been appointed in succession by six different sheriffs.
Brown, 53, is eligible for retirement under the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System, as his age and number of years of service totaled 85 years or more. He is to be replaced by Cody Goforth, a long-time member of the sheriff’s department.

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Updated 5/18/10

Lyons High valedictorian Jill Fitzgerald (left) walks proudly down the aisle during Sunday’s graduation. (Right) the Lyons High Lionaiires perform during graduation. (Photos by Hilary Thomas)

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Father’s advice helped

Terri Johannsen heeded the advice of her father, who helped her find the strength to take treatments for cancer.

By Terri Johannsen
When I went in for my yearly check-up Dr. Roger Tobias found a lump in my right breast. This moment changed me a lot and put me on a journey I will always be on.
He sent me on to Dr. Murray Holcomb who had me doing mammograms every three months to watch for change and growth.
It was my sister who urged me to have surgery and have the lump removed so I knew what I was dealing with. She said if I waited I might regret that decision.
I talked with Dr. Holcomb and he agreed. I had the lump removed and it was benign. But Dr. Holcomb sent a sample of my breast tissue to a lab in New York.
I knew the lump was benign but when I went in for my appointment he told me he had the lab results back and lobular cancer was found growing. So through tears, I tried to pull it together so I could hear what I needed to hear.
He told me as I was leaving he wanted me to remember how lucky 1 was that this was found early.
He sent me to Dr. Mark Fesen. His office wanted more tests so he knew what we were dealing with. So I had days filled with mammograms, sonograms and body scans and blood drawn. It showed cancer just in the breast. I had another surgery to check my lymph nodes and they were clear. So the next step was 33 radiation treatments.
I have a day care in my home so to do treatments every day took a lot of support from my Mom and Sister and all my day care parents.
I had two surgeries behind me and one to go on Feb. 6 when I finished radiation on Jan. 15, 2009
One week later, my Dad died. He got sick and was gone within hours. The words he spoke to me in December have played in my head a lot. I was having lunch with him and Mom and he told me I was going to do all the doctors wanted me to.
I thought I am doing all the doctors wanted me to do!
He looked me in the eyes and said, “Terri Lynn I need to know we are on the same page with this.”
I agreed. That moment will play in my head forever. I had my final surgery, and a sonogram to put my mind at rest. The radiation had eliminated the cancer.
On my first visit with Dr. Fesen, he told me he had a part in this fight but so did I and we both had to give it all we had.
I have lost 120 pounds with Weight Watchers and I am living an active and healthy life. I go in every six months for mammograms and blood work ups.
I have the support and love of my family and friends, five happy doctors and the wisdom of my Dad playing in my head.
The Lyons News and Relay for Life are publicizing stories for the 2010 Relay for Life of Rice County June 25-26 at Workman Park. To submit a story, call Daylene Linville 257-3222 or 257-2298.

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Businesses add turbo-prop, jet

Bill Hoeffner, owner of Rice County Aerial Sprayers, has installed a “turbo-prop” engine in the larger of his two spray planes. (Photo by Jim Misunas)

By Paul Jones
Rice County has suddenly moved into the jet age, with two county-based businesses now having ownership in turbine-powdered aircraft.
Jet engines are actually turbines, and come in two forms. One is hooked to other gear to turn, or otherwise make move, something such as an airplane propeller. The other form is what is called the “pure jet,” with the power generated by the thrust which comes out the back of the engine.

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Updated 1/29/10

Plains & Progress is featured today

The 2010 Plains & Progress issue of The Lyons News features four sections profiling every aspect of Rice County. The 44-page section features separate sections for communities and government; business and industry, agriculture and manufacturing and health and education. “These are the people of Rice County and these are their stories and your neighbors,” said David Settle, Lyons News publisher. “We thank each and every one included in these pages for their help in this effort.

“Please take time to thank them too. Rice County will continue to be a wonderful place to live, a place of growth, a place we proudly call home. In many respects, that is due to those businesses you read about in The Rice County Plains & Progress issue.” Settle said The Lyons News enjoys being a good neighbor to all the communities in Rice County.

“We believe the progress made in our county is rich and often untold,” he said. “It’s one that we intend to tell through this annual edition. We appreciate additional businesses joining in bringing our readers their unique stories.” Advertising executives Kim Craigmyle and Jacque Modrow and designer Jon Nance helped work on the section. Sections will be made available at the Lyons Chamber of Commerce, Lyons city offices, the Celebration Centre, area hotels and Sterling Main Street offices.

Plains of Progress Agriculture

Plains of Progress Communities Plains of Progress Health

‘Mummy, we’re out of toilet paper’

Sixth-grade culture

By Golly! It’s Buffalo Bill Cody

Bulkhead to Remedy Problem Lyons Salt solves water issue

Rice County plant clear in nationwide egg recall

Lyons Salt investment pays off

History grant will help Rice teachers

Claflin, Quivira Heights to schedule football reunion

Lyons delivers Back-to-School feeling

Men escape serious injury

Bikers head to rally

Lyons pool a big splash

Dairy Queen Surprise ‘Boss Hogg’ celebrates 90th

News’ employee services Tuesday

‘Nuisance code’ planned

Truck damages Lyons residence

Lyons kicker sparks West team

40-Year Career Tire owner to retire

Employee will retire

Tax credits are available

Democrats to hold meeting

City continues alleyway work

District Hospital honored by state

Roofers strike payday in Lyons

Students enjoy Camp Wa-Ja-To

L&M finishes Safe Routes to Schools

KDOT gives city of Lyons good news

Rice County Relay sets record

Firecracker sellers enjoy business

No Lyons News for Tuesday

Rice County Relay for Life 2010

Undersheriff enjoys new role

Woman hurt in accident

Rice County Relay for Life 2010

Mayor Cowan resigns

Farm wreck injures man

Strike averted at North American

Stone Corral location Santa Fe Trail marker dedicated

Whooping cough case treated in Rice County

Dogs help save owner

Drivers who ignore signs ticketed

Lyons Salt Company projects progressing

Sterling homeowners pump out basements

Middle School pond a labor of love

Weekend storms bring high water

Land Bank building to be razed

Sterling College Senior Kenyan, is summer intern at the Lyons News

Lyons streets to see repair work

Worker cuts gas line

Central’s rainforest tradition

Sterling owners will manage Vet Clinic

Habitat House underway

Rice County Memorial Day

Lyons pool has rousing start

Cities to honor Memorial Day

Pool dedication scheduled

Class 3A State Golf

New pool a welcome relief

New equipment will benefit park

USD 405 hears good news

Sterling Grade School honored

Rice undersheriff will retire May 27

Father’s advice helped

Businesses add turbo-prop, jet

Plains & Progress is featured today

Bulkhead to Remedy Problem
Lyons Salt solves water issue

Dairy Queen Surprise
‘Boss Hogg’ celebrates 90th

40-Year Career
Tire owner to retire

Sterling College Senior
Kenyan, is summer intern at the Lyons News