Galyon set to appear on “The Voice” after the Singer-songwriter Nicolle Galyon, a native of Sterling, will compete on Sunday night’s new season premiere of The Voice on NBC immediately following the Super Bowl. Gaylon currently lives in Nashville, Tenn. where she is a staff songwriter for Warner-Chappell Publishing. _________ Veterans’ A veteran service representative for the Kansas Commission on Veterans’ Affairs will be assisting veterans and their family members file claims for various veteran benefits on Monday, Feb. 6, 2012 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Rice County Courthouse in Lyons. |
Contact Us At: Lyons News admin@ldn.kscoxmail.com Updated 2/3/12 Kuhn bound over for trial, bond kept at $1 millionRice County District Court in Lyons was the site for the Tuesday, Jan. 31 preliminary hearing for Charles Kuhn, Jr. on eight counts of sexual felonies against a minor. Kuhn was arrested on Oct. 20, 2011 after allegations against him surfaced in April. He was placed under $1 million dollar cash or surety bond and has remained in the Rice County jail since his arrest. Thursday morning Explosion rocks Arlington elevator
Login to see the full versions of the stories on this page. RC commissioners deny pay increases for employeesWhen the Rice County commissioners met on Jan. 23, the following expenditures were approved: Login to see the full versions of the stories on this page.
Second grade dancers CJ Revel (in pink) and Jose Villaneuava (in striped shirt) swing their partners during their performance at half-time of the Lyons boys game on Tuesday. Photo by Vickie Folck Updated 1/31/12 MEREDITH PETERSON-DAVIS
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BY LOUANN COBB Thursday afternoon the lobby of Rice County District Hospital filled with employees, former staff, former classmates, friends and family members of Meredith Peterson-Davis. It was a day of celebrating her 50 years of service in Rice County. “I am proud to have made my career in healthcare,” said Peterson-Davis. “I wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else.” She graduated from nursing school at Fort Scott in 1960 with the nursing unit from St. Elizabeth in Hutchinson. From 1960 to 1962 she worked at Hoffman Memorial Hospital in Little River. In 1962 Peterson-Davis left LR to take a job as floor nurse at Hospital District No. 1 (RCDH) in Lyons, leaving that position in 1968 to work in surgery, where other duties also included being in charge of central supply, the pharmacy and purchasing. From 1993 up until her retirement this month, Davis managed purchasing and pharmacy and was responsible for some billing. “I loved my patients,” said Peterson-Davis. “Losing one of them was like losing a member of the family.” Peterson-Davis said she experienced a special relationship she had with one of the nurses, Elvenia Larson, whom she worked with during her 25 years in surgery. |
| “She was a scrub nurse and I was a circulating RN,” Peterson-Davis said. “ We had a special kind of bond. It seemed as if we each knew what the other was thinking and wanting during a surgical procedure without speaking. If Elvenia needed something at the table, I was over in the cabinet getting it out before she asked for it. I was honored to give my patients the respect and dignity they deserved. I loved nursing and have loved developing a family of friends over the past 50 years.” “Fifty years, that’s a long time,” said Debby Scott, licensed practical nurse. Meredith has been an inspiration to many people in this... |
Meredith Myers-1960 |
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School meals for millions of children will be healthier under obesity-fighting U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) standards unveiled on Wednesday that double the amount of fruits and vegetables in cafeteria lunches - but won't pull French fries from the menu.
In the first major changes to school meals in more than 15 years, the new USDA guidelines will affect nearly 32 million children who eat at school. They will cost about $3.2 billion to implement over the next five years.
"Improving the quality of the school meals is a critical step to building a healthy future for our kids," Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a statement.
The new meal requirements are part of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act championed by first lady Michelle Obama. President Barack Obama approved the measure in late 2010.
The guidelines double the amounts of fruits and vegetables in school lunches and boost offerings of whole grain-rich foods.
The new standards set maximums for calories and cut sodium and trans fat, a contributor to high cholesterol levels.
Schools may offer only fat-free or low-fat milk varieties and must assure that children are getting proper portion sizes, the USDA said.
The new standards will be largely phased in over a three-year period, starting in the 2012-13 school year.
About 17 percent of U.S. children and teenagers are obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About one-third of U.S. adults are obese.
FRIES WITH THAT?
Lawmakers altered the guidelines in November. They barred the USDA from limiting French fries and ensured that pizza counted as a vegetable because of its tomato paste.
Trade associations representing frozen pizza sellers like ConAgra Foods Inc and Schwan Food Co as well as French fry sellers McCain Foods Ltd and J.R. Simplot Co were instrumental in blocking changes to rules affecting those items.
Margo Wootan, nutrition policy director for the non-profit Center ...
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Freshman LHS Winter Homecoming attendants are Bethanie Miller and Dakota Nave; sophomore attendants are Aubrey Hollinger and Jared Cardonne, and juniors are Heather Crane & Mark Jared. Seniors Homecoming King and Queen candidates pictured are: Back row: Ben Minix, Mauro Villanueva, Zach Loesch, Cesar Ferrel and front row: Amanda Mefford, Cheyenne Nave, Jessica Wood. Not pictured Anna Ignatova
The Roaring Lions Booster Club of LHS is hosting a Blue Out on the night of Winter Homecoming. It is their goal to see a sea of blue to support the athletics and all participating students of Lyons High School. The students of USD 405 will take part in a Spirit Week that will lead up to the homecoming coronation on Friday, Feb. 3. Admission is free to the event if you come wearing blue.
Other Friday homecoming festivities include:
Homecoming pep rally at the Lyons High School gym - 2:25 p.m. - Community is invited
Freshman chili fundraiser supper from 5 - 7 p.m. at LHS cafeteria
Homecoming coronation - 7:30 ish (between girls and boys game)
There will also be JV boys and girls basketball games at 4:30 p.m., the varsity girls game at 6:00 p.m., and the varsity boys game at 7:30 p.m The halftime entertainment for the boys varsity game will be a performance by the budding cheerleaders who attended the LRC cheerleader cheer clinic.
On Saturday, Feb. 4 the Lions wrestlers will host a tournament starting at 9 a.m. This will also be Senior Parent night for the wrestlers.
Let’s jam the gym with Blue this Friday night, Feb.3, as the Lyons Lions girls and boys basketball teams take on the Hillsboro Trojans. This is a blue out game, so wear your blue!
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Updated 1/27/12
Mayor Mike Young has the best of both worlds. He loves the city he grew up in and his new job as a handyman at Good Sam Society. |
BY LOUANN COBB Mike Young of Lyons goes from stress to happiness overnight and finds a new career that’s a match made in heaven. The “heavy” stress goes back five years; the former owner of Young Motors Inc. said. General Motors stopped being a partner and became an adversary in the business. “We were battling with all the problems we had here and also with GM to get everything done” Young said. The worst of it was getting the letter telling me I would no longer be a GM dealer, Young said. “Nobody knew who was going to get the letter.” He put a profit and loss together to see if he could make it work, thought maybe he should just cut and run, but didn’t want to make a mistake. Without the franchise he couldn’t make it work and put the business up for sale. |
“Up until that time I didn’t really give my future a whole lot of thought,” Young said. “You can walk away when you sell a business but not when you close the doors to one.” He put blood and guts into the next six months, had a good auction and closed on the sale of the building the following Monday. He was free at last and liking it.
At a weekly chamber coffee, Orie Ensz, administrator for Good Samaritan Society approached Young about going to work for GSS, after learning he was a handyman. It was a bittersweet ending for Young, who went home every night from his former job to do the hobbies he liked to do to relieve the stress.
Now to suddenly have a ...
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By LouAnn Cobb |
Wyatt Hoyt, age 6, places table decorations used at Ebenezer United Methodist Church Pancake feed Wednesday on the cart. Over 800 people turned out for the event. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
Finding ways to include the kids fosters good relationships between adult and child. They can enjoy a meal with their family and have a good time while learning how to be helpful to others.
Macy Schubert, age two, and her brother,...
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The Jan. 9, 2012 agenda for the Rice County commissioner’s meeting included the addition of Dale Higgins and Cody Goforth at 11:45. All commissioners were present and approved the agenda and the minutes of the Dec. 29 meeting with no other changes and no public comment.
Appointments for 2012 included Bill Oswalt as chairman of the board, The Sterling Bulletin as the official county newspaper, and The Lyons State Bank as the official county bank.
Commissioners approved tax additions in the amount of $1,104.42 and tax abatements in the amount of $2,713.60 presented by Treasurer Shawnna Bieberle.
County Clerk Alicia Showalter reported on the change in the insurance premium for the county for 2012 for property and liability insurance and presented an indigent attorney contract for signature. The appointment of Dr. Lyle Noordhoeck, M.D. as a deputy coroner was approved.
Showalter requested an executive session. Commissioner McCloud moved to enter into executive session from 9:20 to 9:30 for a non-elected personnel matter. The motion carried unanimously following a second by Commissioner Bray.
When commissioners returned to open session, Showalter presented Resolution 1-2012 (GAAP Waiver) and Resolution 2-2012 (Transfer to Equipment Reserve Fund), which were both approved by unanimous vote.
Commissioners approved an invoice from Kansas Association of Counties for KAC Dues for 2012 in the amount of $2,665.51.
Public Works Administrator Dennis Wray presented quotes for oil as follows: Lyons Auto $7,849.00, Bumper to Bumper $6,981.85, Boroughs Oil $5,911.02, Jones Oil $5,901.00, and Farmers Coop $7,584.50. Commissioners accepted the bid from Jones Oil in the amount of $5,901.09.
Wray also discussed getting bids for 2012 biennial and 2012 annual bridge inspections.
Register of Deeds Rhonda Hunt reported that there will be a mortgage registration from Post Rock Wind.
Economic Development Director Jill Nichols and Shayla Grasser and Jimmie Todd with Mutual Telephone Co. discussed fiber optic internet services for Rice County. Showalter will pull contract information and report back to the Commissioners.
Sheriff Dale Higgins and Undersheriff Cody Goforth made an appearance to present information to the Commissioners in an executive session. Commissioner McCloud moved to enter into executive session from 11:15 to 11:30 for a non-elected personnel matter. The motion carried unanimously following a second by Commissioner Bray. County Counselor Scott Bush and County Clerk Alicia Showalter were present for the session.
When commissioners returned to open session, County Counselor Scott Bush presented information regarding the scrap metal dealers registration, and discussion followed; Bush will report back at the next session.
Commissioners agreed to meet at 8 a.m. on Friday, Jan.13 to review and approve mid-month vouchers.
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Updated 1/25/12
| James 1:27 “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” By LouAnn Cobb At the young age of 28, Justin Rolfs, the son of Patti and Scott Rolfs of Bushton, is making a difference at home and abroad. In looking back, Rolfs can see the hand God played in his life, beginning with a “unique” childhood that evolved around farming, school and church. Rolfs found a purpose for his life using the God-given gifts he was given to glorify God by helping those in need. He looks back at those years of his life and smiles. Summers were special. Learning to drive the tractor and helping his grandfather around the farm priceless experiences, all stepping-stones leading him to whom he has become and where he is today. |
Justin Rolfs, formerly of Bushton, listens to the host ministry in Nacaragua share the vision of their community. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
“My younger brother, Monte, and I were brought up knowing that we were going to help those that we could,” Rolfs said. “There were a lot of elderly men and women in our church who could use the help. It was those encounters that gave me a desire to help people.”
His sights were set on becoming a mechanical engineer after graduating from Quivira Heights in 2002. He chose John Brown University in Arkansas because of its head, heart and hand philosophy.
“The purposes for which we live is combined with the conditioning of the hand and intermingled with the longings of the heart and the knowledge of the mind,” Rolfs said.
A weeklong trip to New Orleans his senior year with other JBU students to help victims of Katrina became a springboard into more opportunities for ...
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The USD405-Lyons board of education held a special meeting on Jan.19 at 6 p.m. with the only agenda item an executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel. Superintendent Gary Sechrist, high school principal Kelly Nusser, and board attorney Scott Bush were included in the executive session. After the executive session, the board unanimously approved a motion to accept the personnel report. The report contained the resignation of LHS AFJROTC instructor retired Air Force Col. Roscoe Griffin.
Griffin’s wife was arrested last week for the shooting death of Irina Puscariu who is alleged to have been involved in an extra-marital affair with Griffin.
The Jr. ROTC program at Lyons High School serves 42 students, according to Nusser. Classes have been team-taught by Griffin, and Sgt. James Eskut, who will continue to be the instructor.
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The Board of Directors of the newly completed Sterling Community Center and Studio 96 is holding a Gala Grand Opening, Saturday Jan. 28 at 7 p.m. The event will feature catered hors d’oeuvres and drinks, a Gallery Show of local artists, a recognition of volunteers and a fund-raising art auction. Admission is $15 and may be applied toward a 2012 membership.
The inaugural exhibit in the Studio 96 Gallery will feature the work of 16 local artists. The display will include oils, acrylics, watercolors, mixed media, photography, ceramics and sculpture and will highlight the talented artists in our community.
Also, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in an art auction of 15 works. Donated pieces include original art by Carolyn Loutzenhiser, Pat Potucek, and Bette Kennedy, as well as several high quality prints and reproductions, including a signed Lester Raymer poster.
The many volunteers who have worked on the renovation project will also be recognized. The dream of establishing an art center in downtown Sterling started four years ago with six people brainstorming around a kitchen table. Their first fundraiser was a Sloppy-Joe Supper which netted $300.
Over the next year, the Studio 96 Board raised enough to purchase the old Ben Franklin building at public auction for $22,000. In 2008, Studio 96 won a Small Community Improvement Program Grant worth $125,000 and, in 2009, won a Kan-Step Grant worth $300. All the renovations were ...
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2009 Ford which carried six members of the Mark Stansbury family, who all survived. Micheal Mason of Geneseo was killed in the wreck.
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Road conditions Sunday evening proved deadly for a 59-year old Geneseo man, Michael Mason, when he lost control of his vehicle on the slush-covered road three miles north of Lyons on K-14. He was driving north when his vehicle went into a broadside skid, crossing the centerline, according to Rice County Sheriff’s Deputy Chad Murphy. |
His 2005 Chevy Colorado truck then collided with a 2009 Ford Flex traveling south on K-14, driven by Mark Stansbury of Lorraine. Rice County EMS were also dispatched to the accident, and Mason was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Stansbury vehicle had six occupants. Mark Stansbury, age 36, sustained non-life threatening injuries. His wife Lucy Stansbury, 37, the front seat passenger, was transported to Hutchinson Hospital with serious injuries. Six-year old Carter Stansbury was transported by private vehicle to the Lyons District Hospital, where he was treated and released. Six-year old Courtney Stansbury, ten-year old Anna Stansbury, and three-year old Ella Stansbury were all transported via ambulance to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita hospital in critical condition.
A third vehicle, identified as a 2006 Ford truck driven by 59-year old Chris Hamilton of Frederick, was driving north on K-14. Hamilton attempted to avoid the accident scene, but struck the 2005 Chevy Colorado after the initial impact. Neither Hamilton nor his passenger was injured, and the vehicle was not disabled.
As of Monday afternoon, the hospital reported that all of the children had been upgraded to good condition.
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Updated 1/20/12
Rice RWD#1 pump station equipment, now underground, will move up eight feet into new building. “While the underground facility was very secure, the risk of flooding was the main factor in convincing the board to make the move,” said district Operator Randy Buggeln. “The concrete provides the same security, but eliminates the flooding risk and makes it easier for me to check and work on the equipment,” he continued. |
By Debbie Wiens
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By Paul Jones
With the completion of the naturally somewhat-awkward first stages of the consolidation of the Lyons Medical Center with the Hospital District Number One of Rice County, which already had brought under its umbrella the Sterling Medical Center, the all-in-one Rice County healthcare community is functioning with increasing efficiency, George Stover, administrator of RCDH said this week.
When the Hutchinson Clinic approached the hospital about cutting its ties with the Lyons Medical Center, the hospital felt it was essential to the future of healthcare in Rice County to assure the continued existence of LMC, and the best answer was to bring all three healthcare entities under one operation. The first week in Lyons saw some serious issues with the information system, but since then those problems have been worked out.
Following the January 1 date of the transfer of the ownership of the LMC operations and equipment to the hospital, the Family Health Clinic, which was part of the $9 million hospital expansion and upgrading the past several years, was closed, and Karen Root, ARNP (Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner) and Alicia Koch, ARNP, transitioned to LMC to join Dr. Roger Tobias, M.D., and Dale Diener, PA (Physician’s Assistant).
The new combined operation includes Dr. James Decker, D.O.; Dr. Kristina Darnauer, M.D.; Dr. Stacy Dashiell, M.D.; Julie West, PA; and the staff at the Sterling Medical Center. Also involved is the entire staff of eight employees at the Lyons Medical Center which was retained with the hospital’s purchase.
The space at the southeast corner of the hospital, which was built for the clinic, opened Monday of this week as a dual facility. One half will be used for ..
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By Lucky Kidd
A new web site for the city of Lyons will be coming on line in the next couple of months. The Lyons City Council Tuesday agreed to implement a new web site with Civic Plus. City Administrator John Sweet said dissatisfaction with the current web site led to the decision to change. With the new provider, plans are to make accessible on-line many city documents such as the city code and zoning regulations.
The council otherwise had another routine meeting on Jan. 17, held one day later than usual due to the Dr. Martin Luther King Holiday Monday. The Council approved a new ordinance relating to scrap metal dealers, who will now be required to obtain a local license which will be valid for ten years. That ordinance and related changes to fee schedules are mandated by changes in state law that took effect the first of the year.
Approval was given to a five year capital improvement plan for the Lyons-Rice County Airport covering the 2012-17 fiscal years. That plan will be taken to Rice County Commissioners for their approval next Monday. Sweet also reported that a trial on the eminent domain proceedings for a tract just west of the airport is scheduled to take place in February.
Sweet also reported all issues dealing with the Housing Opportunities, Inc. housing development have been taken care of and certificates of occupancy issued. Plans are for a formal opening of the project next month.
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Ed Polson entertains the crowd at Wednesday's pancake and sausage dinner at United Methodist Church in Lyons. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
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Miss America candidate
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Updated 1/17/12
Paul Smith, Peyton Smith, Bridgett Smith celebrate the birth of Brooklyn Jade Smith, 2012 Rice County New Year’s baby, born Jan. 15.
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By LouAnn Cobb It’s official! Bridgett and Paul Smith of Chase are proud parents of the 2012 New Year’s Baby of the Year. Baby girl, Brooklyn Jade Smith, arrived at 11:59 a.m. Jan. 15 at Rice County District Hospital. She weighed 7 lbs. 12 oz., was 20.5 inches long and was delivered by Dr. James Decker, D.O. Brothers and sisters include Peyton Smith of Chase; Meagan and Michaele Proffitt, both of Wellington; Kandice Smith of Hutchinson; and T.J. and Destiny Smith, both of Ottawa. Maternal grandparents are Bonnie Babcock of Preston and Barry Babcock of Hutchinson. Paternal grandfather is Ray Smith of Chase. Great-grandparents are Letha and Delbert Babcock of Utica. In celebration of the first baby of the year, Bridgett and Paul will receive... |
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4-H ANNUAL SOUP SUPPER: Kathleen Elliott, with Valley Blue Birds 4-H club, helps bus tables at the annual soup supper Saturday night at the Rice County 4-H Extension building. Proceeds from the soup supper will go to the 4-H Leadership Fund. Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
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By LouAnn Cobb Campbell Coleman prefers sausage over pancakes at the Salem UM pancake feed. All proceeds went to help the Togerson family. |
Finger lickin’ good! Cade Coleman of Chase enjoys his pancakes with homemade maple syrup. (Photos by LouAnn Cobb)
Togerson was crossing highway 50 at the Langdon Blacktop when a semi-truck traveling westbound struck the family van. All three children were buckled up in the back seat. Candace and Adrianne were on the driver’s side behind their mother, looking in the direction of the oncoming semi. |
The sisters both received multiple facial injuries that required surgery. Adrianne had a brain bleed ,a fractured skull and a broken orbit of her left eye. Togerson said. Candace got the brunt of the injuries: a broken nose, crushed nasal cavity and other multiple lacerations - one that went through her left eye lid and into her head, another below the left eye lid and a tear on her cheek.
“Candace had to have surgery that night because she couldn’t breath,” Togerson said. “As a result, her eye lids don’t open all the way. Eyes develop from birth to ten years. Right now it is not obstructing her vision. Both the girls may need an eye lift but doctors are waiting for six months to a year before making that decision.”
“We had a Christmas miracle,” said Togerson.
According to Angie Beneke from Salem United Methodist Church, southwest of Chase, word spread quickly among members of the church after learning about the accident.
“It’s amazing what prayer chains and Facebook can do,” she said. “People were at the hospital waiting when Tammy and Jake arrived. We also took up a special offering at our Christmas Eve service and raised almost $2,000 to help Tammy and Joe with medical expenses,” Beneke said.
“There was even a church in Great Bend praying for us,” said Togerson.
Beneke went on to say there was more than one miracle that night. ...
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The wife of the Lyons High School Air Force Jr. ROTC program instructor, retired Air Force Colonel Roscoe L. O. Griffin was arrested Friday evening outside of Wichita. Shannon O’Roark Griffin was charged with first-degree murder and criminal action in the death of Irina Puscariu of Gladstone, Missouri, a suburb of Kansas City.
As reported, the Griffins were in a marriage counseling session in Great Bend when Roscoe Griffin told Shannon about his mistress, Puscariu, and after telling his wife he would not stop seeing her, Shannon reportedly left the session. Roscoe was then allegedly contacted by his wife on Friday evening telling him that she had shot and killed Puscariu. It was reported that Roscoe then called Puscariu’s home in Kansas City where Puscariu’s mother answered telling him her daughter had been killed.
Shannon Griffin is being held in Sedgwick County Jail and is scheduled to go in front of a Judge next week.
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Updated 1/13/12
Beginning sometime during this spring semester, students in Clancy Moses’ Econ class at Lyons High School will have the opportunity to earn certification in financial literacy. The web-based Financial Scholars Program uses software called EverFi and is a ten-module, six-hour program covering 600 topics. Students will learn about banking, credit scores, insurance, credit cards, student loans, mortgages, taxes, stocks, savings, 401k’s and other critical concepts. The program was purchased for three years by First Bank and is being made available to students in Lyons, Sterling and Chase, free of charge. The project was presented to the USD 405 Board of Education by First Bank Market VP Jill Nichols at their Jan. 9 meeting.
The board was operating with only ...
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Displaying their earned medals are: (l-r) Silver medalist Kevin Duignan - University of Connecticut - 53.42 meters; gold medalist Skylar January - Kansas State University (and Lyons graduate) - 9.76 meters; bronze medalist Mark Atangan - United State Army, West Point - 54.60 meters. |
Skylar January, Lyons High School 2008 graduate, earned the title of National Champion at the 2011 USPA Collegiate National Parachuting Championships. He was representing K-State through the KSU Parachute Club. Skylar received his gold medal in novice sport accuracy. “He had never skydived before, just started when he went to K-State last year,” his mother Atheta January said. |
Divers are scored in distance from the bullseye of the 45-meter diameter target, in meters. In five jumps he scored a 9.09, a .67 and two perfect 0.00’s. Jumps are totaled for the final score of 9.76 to win the Novice division. That score would have given him third place in the Masters accuracy division, and fourth in the Intermediate.
The event was held at Skydive Arizona in Eloy, Ariz. on Dec. 28, 2011 through Jan. 1, 2012. Teams competing include Kansas State University, U.S. Air Force, Naval, and Army academies, and nine other universities.
January has now completed the training and required 100 jumps in order to be certified by the USPA as a coach. When asked if he had convinced any of his friends to jump, his mother replied, “No, but he did convince me!” She did a tandem jump with her son on 9/11, even getting to freefall with him. “There’s something wrong with a child wanting their mom to jump out of an airplane,” Atheta laughed, “but as long as it’s a tandem jump I guess I’m okay!” She said her son commented after he won, now I know why they named me Skylar.
January is the son of Jim and Atheta January, grandson of Rita January, and great-grandson of Levina Wilson, all of Lyons.
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“I feel like we have a bullseye on our back,” exclaimed Park School Principal Nancy Barlow, after a sewer line running from the school toward the west backed up into the basement of the school on Monday. Park School had to be evacuated last week when the nearby 12-inch water main broke and created a low pressure problem at the school.
Barlow said that city personnel responded quickly and cleared the blockage. USD 405 janitorial staff were stuck with the task of cleaning up the sewage that covered seventy-five percent of the basement. According to Barlow, they squeegeed the muck toward the drain, and once the blockage was cleared, it drained quickly.
On Wednesday, school personnel reported that Rainbow was there for the third time, disinfecting the basement, and the smell was pretty much gone.
No students came into contact with the material, so any odor they may have come home with had a different source.
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The Air Force Junior ROTC instructors and cadets of Lyons High School earned an overall unit assessment score of “Exceeds Standards”….the highest rating attainable during their rated unit evaluation on November 7, 2011. Colonel Roscoe Griffin and TSgt James Eskut created a dynamic and supportive learning environment coupled with an excellent community outreach. The instructors were providing outstanding leadership in administering the cadet centered citizenship program. The Lyons High School cadets performed exceptionally well and took great pride in leading and accomplishing their unit goals. The Lyons High School Air Force Junior ROTC citizenship program is making a positive impact on the cadets, the school and community.
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BY LOUANN COBB
Members of Rice County law enforcement, officers and deputies, firefighters and EMT’s will be the guests of honor at the third showing of the movie “Courageous,” hosted by Lyons Church of Christ. Following a banquet for the “everyday heroes” and their families that will begin at 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, the doors to the church will open to the public, in hopes of filling the sanctuary to full capacity, 250.
RSVP is required for the dinner by calling the church at 620-257-3612 or by contacting Pastor Robert Traverner at 620-894-0123. Deadline for reservations is prior to Monday, Jan. 23.
The story line of this action-packed police drama involves four law enforcement officers ...
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American AgCredit has announced the merger with Farm Credit Services of the Mountain Plains, based in Greeley, Colo., effective Jan.1, 2012. The merger will make the joint Association the sixth largest Farm Credit cooperative in the U.S., totaling $5.58 billion in assets, and creating a combined customer base of 6,907 members.
The Heartland Region is one of eight regions throughout the combined Association’s six-state territory. The territory for this Region includes 10 offices throughout central and eastern Kansas and northern Oklahoma. Regional offices include Concordia, El Dorado, Hutchinson, Kingman, Larned, Pratt, Salina, Weatherford, Wichita, and Ponca City, Okla.
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Updated 1/10/12
World renowned speaker Craig McFarlane to
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Motivational speaker Craig McFarlane with former President George H.W. Bush. McFarlane spoke at three Republican national conventions. |
On Feb. 2, members of the Lyons and Little River chambers will get the opportunity to hear his message of hope and inspiration, exemplifying his positive outlook and can-do-spirit, when he takes center stage at their annual banquet at the Celebration Centre in Lyons. Admission will also be open to the public. McFarlane has never treated his blindness as a handicap, only a “minor inconvenience.” Following the accident he was included in all family activities: camping, fishing and hiking in the woods. At age six McFarlane was introduced to the sport of wrestling at the school for the blind he attended in Brantford, Ontario. By age 17, over 90 percent of his lifetime medals received were in wrestling. He is an accomplished musician, plays the piano, trombone, clarinet and trumpet; was one of Canada’s top sprinters as a teenager; competed in the Blind Downhill Skiing Championship in Alta, Utah, clocking at a record-breaking speed of 50 m.p.h.; was the winner of the U.S. Blind National Water Skiing Championship in Florida; and proved his versatility when he won the World and won the Blind Water Skiing Championship in Oslo, Norway. |
His speaking career began at age 19 when McFarlane moved to the United States to live with his mentor, Gordie Howe, Hockey Hall of Famer, who recognized McFarlane’s ability to communicate with people. At age 45, he continues to travel the world alone, without the use of a seeing-eye dog or cane, captivating audiences of all ages, sharing his inner vision with corporations and organizations throughout the world.
In 2006 McFarlane was invited to the Vatican to have an audience with Pope Benedict XVI and he has spoken at ...
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The Dec. 29, 2011 meeting of the Rice County Board of County Commissioners was held at 8 a.m. in the commissioner’s room in the courthouse, with Commissioners Jack Bray, Bill Oswalt and Derek McCloud present, President Bray presiding.
There were no public comments, and the agenda and minutes of the Dec. 19 session were approved as prepared. Commissioners also reviewed and approved month-end vouchers.
County Clerk Alicia Showalter reported on some issues discussed at the department head meeting, and reported that department heads...
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LHS class of 1975 classmates Terry Drake of Olathe, Mark Darrah of Hutchinson, Kent Kennedy of Lawrence, Dan Snyder of Lyons, and Marty Viramontez of Wichita enjoy a joke before the 1990 wedding of Kennedy. The friendship remained strong throughout the years and Snyder’s friends were with him when he died Saturday. (photo courtesy of Karen Snyder)
It is not often that high school friends remain lifelong friends, but in the case of Dan Snyder and his LHS class of 1975 posse, they made a firm exception to that rule. When Dan took his final breath on Saturday morning, Kent Kennedy, Marty Viramontez, Mark Darrah and Terry Drake were there. They had travelled from their homes in Lawrence, Wichita, Hutchinson and Olathe to be by his side off and on during the past week while Dan was hospitalized in Wichita. They had shared in each other’s joys and triumphs over the past 36 years and knew that bond extended to the bad times as well. Their presence was a great comfort to Dan’s wife Karen. “We filled the hall in the hospital,” she said. “Between them and all of the doctors and nurses who had cared for Dan over the years, we were quite a crowd.” Many in the medical community whose lives had been touched by Dan came by to bid him farewell.
As part of the Snyder banking family, Dan began his career at The Lyons State Bank on Jan. 1, 1978. Prior to that, he had shared in the cleaning duties, according to his wife Karen. That’s how it goes in a family business. Dan was not one for club memberships, she said, but he was very involved with the Kansas Agricultural Rural Leadership program (KARL), and had served on their board. He was in the Lyons Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Club. He was serving on the Rice County District Hospital board at the time of his death, and was the bank president.
Snyder was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease at age 21 and his heart was weakened by the aggressive radiation treatments that followed. On Feb. 1, 2009, he received a heart transplant, which required a two-year-long regimen of immuno-suppressive drugs. This winter he contracted the common CMV virus, which,with his weakened immune system, led to multiple organ failure. He died Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012. See page 2 for his obituary.
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When Dan Snyder was in the hospital after receiving his new heart, friends Mark and Karen Darrah and Butch (Marty Viramontez) visited him and they enjoyed stories from the glory days. These three guys graduated together from LHS Class of 1975, a class of which many members remarkably still stay in touch. Whenever these classmates congregate, inevitably conversation gets around to retelling stories of school, sports, teachers, events, summers, dates, college - you name it. With the mention of Little League, one particular game and one surprising play comes to the minds of players and coaches.
"The Catch"
In 1966, two great little league teams squared off for the Youth League Championship in a small town in Kansas. The Mountain Dew team and Lyons State Bank nine. It was late July and as the two evenly matched teams battled it out on the field neither could gain an advantage. At the end of six innings the game was tied at 6 to 6. Extra innings.
The seventh inning came and went without a score.
In the top of the eighth inning Lyons State Bank scored two runs to take an 8-6 lead.
Then, in the bottom of the eighth inning, with one out and two runners on, Mountain Dew's best hitter, Viramontez, strolled to the plate. He launched a ball high and deep to center. No nine-year old had ever hit one that far out in league history.
Dan Snyder, The Lyons State Bank centerfielder backpedaled all the way to the fence as he tracked the ball across the sky. Standing flat-footed, back against the fence, he stuck his left arm as high in the air as he could reach . . . ..
We all watched the ball’s flight from our positions on the field as did the folks in the stands and those in the cars that circled the field.
Plop. The ball landed right in his mitt for the second out. It wasn't the last out of the inning but that didn't matter as we all knew that that was the ballgame. The young man playing centerfield ran all of the way back into the infield in disbelief, staring at his mitt all of the way to make sure that the ball was really in there.
The next batter struck out and Lyons State Bank captured the 1966 Youth League Championship Pee Wee Division.
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Updated 12/30/11
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Part of the Christmas celebration at Rice County District Hospital Swingbed was a visit by Santa himself. Little Lucy Beck watches as Santa prepares to hand out presents to residents. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
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Lyons City Workers
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Above: Dave Kendrick checks late afternoon progress with Matt Detmer and Alan Moore.Below: Earlier, Detmer, David Larsen, and Chuck Vise listened to Kendrick’s plan to repair the broken water line on S. Grand. |
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Workers completed the repairs around 6 p.m. Friday evening, and are hoping that the repairs will hold. The break in the line occurred due to corrosion and was situated next to a repair clamp that had been replaced earlier this year. The city water department is hoping to get a loan from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment; the repair of the main underneath South Grand is only one of several projects that the money would fund. |
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A Veteran Service representative for the Kansas Commission on Veterans’ Affairs will be assisting veterans and their family members file claims for various veteran benefits on
Thursday Jan. 5, 2012 from 1 p.m. till 4 p.m. at the Rice County Courthouse located at 101 West Commercial Street in Lyons, Kansas.
The Kansas Commission on Veterans’ Affairs is a state agency that provides free assistance to veterans and their families with veterans’ benefits.
If you or any of your family members are in need of assistance with veteran benefits please call 620-662-7131 and set up and appointment to speak to the representative. More information may be found at www.kcva.org
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By LouAnn Cobb
Remember the cute face of C.J. Revel, 8, (see Photo page 3) who won a new bicycle at this year’s Trick-or-Treat on the Trails.
“I remember how excited she was when she came in,” said Kate Rumford, Celebration Centre.
While this spunky eight-year-old will probably never forget that special moment, it’s what happened afterwards that’s worth telling this story.
This past month volunteers were sorting food, clothing and toys to fill boxes for needy families in Northern Rice County at the Goodfellows center, located on Main and West Ave. South. Jack Ooley of Lyons, was at the center one-day cutting box lids in preparation for the nearly 287 families that were expected to arrive soon to pick up their gift boxes.
“I was working close to the front door, setting them out, when the front ...
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Filings have already been received for two of the four Lyons city council positions up for a vote next April. Jeff McMillan
filed for the seat now held for Ward 1 by Leanna Payne, and Susan Tobias will vie for the Ward 4 position Alvin Sowers now holds.
Filing deadline is 12 noon on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2012 at City Hall for the election on April 3.
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Updated 12/23/11
Area charities and churches are seeing a greater need for help with Rice County families they serve this year.
Goodfellows, which serves Southern Rice County, will provide boxes of donated goods to 240 families on Friday, Dec. 23 when distribution takes place at their location on West Main Street. The goal is to feed the family for the ten day holiday when children are out of school. Each family will receive food items: ham, milk, cereal, bread, eggs, baking mix, peanut butter, jelly, and potatoes; toiletry items such as toilet paper, shampoo, and toothpaste. A stocking hat and gloves will be provided for each child in the family, as well as toys for younger children and games and snacks for older kids. This year they will be giving away 35 bicycles.
Families are scheduled to pick up their boxes in assigned alphabetical order, beginning at 9 a.m. Organizer Kay McMillan said county residents have been wonderful in supplying items and money, but there is always need for cash to take care of things not received, and to start shopping for next year. It is never too late to donate, she said.
A Secret Santa program provides anonymous help for those who are unable to come in to Goodfellows or who are just too proud to admit they need help. If you know of someone in need, you can contact Goodfellows and they will send a card to that family letting them know the organization is offering to help them.
Volunteers from the Methodist Church’s community youth group helped out at Goodfellows, with sixth graders sorting toys, and high schoolers making two tied blankets as well as helping fill boxes.
The Hope group at the Christian Church in Lyons continued their annual “ Stuff the Bus” campaign with items they donate to the Sexual Assault Center, mostly toys and clothes. In addition, this year they collected gifts for teenage boys to donate to Goodfellows. “It seems like that group is often left out, and they are hard to buy for,” said church member Barb Root, “so we thought we could help with that.”
Rev. Joel Grizzle of Lyons First Baptist Church said that the Ministerial Alliance gets requests every week for help with gas money or transportation for trips out of town for medical appointments. This need is more pressing during the holiday season when other expenses increase. Contact him at the church at 257-5622 to help or donate.
After hearing about the need for help with ...
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Douglas Enge was headed northbound on Highway K-14 when he lost control of his truck due to the icy conditions Tuesday morning. Emergency responders used the Jaws of Life to remove Enge from the wrecked vehicle.
An injury traffic accident occurred Tuesday morning around 8 a.m. on the K-14 highway just south of Sterling near Avenue X. Augusta resident Douglas Enge, age 62, was heading northbound on K-14 when his 2011 Dodge pickup truck left the road and crashed.
Enge was pulling a livestock trailer when he apparently hit a patch of ice causing him to lose control of the vehicle. Enge’s truck slid and landed in the east ditch on the side of the road facing south. Rice County EMS responded to the incident and the Lyons fire department brought the Jaws of Life that were used to pull back the roof of the truck so emergency responders could pull Enge out of the wrecked vehicle which had been resting on its side. Enge was taken by ambulance to the Promise Regional Hospital in Hutchinson.
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(Editor’s Note: While combing the files of the Lyons Daily News, this article telling the history of the Bell and Star, as written by the late Editor Horane Jones, was found in the November 1, 1961 and December 3, 1986 issues.)
The Bell and Star decorations in Lyons have existed so long as a Yuletide feature that the story of how it came to be is becoming a bit fuzzy in the minds of people. For this reason,...
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Post Office asks for clear path to boxThe Lyons Post Office is asking customers to help keep letter carriers safe by shoveling a path to their mailbox as soon as possible after it snows. “We want our carriers to return home to their families healthy each night,” said Lyons postal officer Tammy Hoefer. “Keeping a path clear to your mailbox will go a long way toward keeping our letter carriers safe and ensuring mail delivery each day.”
A huge snowman dwarfs the house behind it on West Noble, and leaves the yard around it bare of snow after Tuesday’s storm. |
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By Lucky Kidd
With Michael Young presiding over his first official meeting as mayor, the Lyons City Council Monday approved amendments to the city’s 2012 budget. The changes, which will not require adjustment to the city’s mill levy, reflect a number of things that have happened since the budget was originally adopted in August.
The re-financing of bonds for replacement of the natural gas distribution system, which increased annual payments, reduced interest rates, and shortened the duration of the bond issue, was one of the major adjustments made. Other adjustments were related to grant funded projects, including Safe Routes to Schools and an ADA sidewalk replacement program for which four temporary seasonal workers will be hired next year. Among other adjustments were the $5 per run increase in pay for the fire department, and shifting of money between line items using funds budgeted for a project on West Taylor that was instead done this year.
An increase of 2.31 percent in residential refuse service rates requested by Stutzman Refuse Disposal was approved effective Jan. 1. The new rate for trash service will be $9.72 a month, a 22 cent increase based on the Consumer Price Index. Commercial rates will be going up about 7 percent; those rates are based upon level of service.
In other action;
The council agreed to a request by a resident to waive part of a water bill which was much higher than usual because of a leak. The leak, which was not due to anything the resident did, wasn’t discovered until after he received a bill with water usage several times higher than normal. That leak has already been repaired.
Cereal malt beverage license renewals for 2012 were approved after review and approval of the chief of police.
A two-month extension was approved for the City Hall-Library Complex Working Group, which will now continue into June to allow them ...
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Updated 12/20/11
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After a contentious nine-month tenure as Lyons’ mayor, Mark Johnston has submitted his resignation, effective immediately. His signed letter of resignation was submitted to the city clerk on Monday morning.
Mark Johnston |
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The Lyons Medical Center will become a part of the Hospital District No.1 Rice County on Jan. 1, 2012. Dr. Roger Tobias and P.A. Dale Diener will remain in practice at the Medical Center.
Rice County District Hospital has reached an agreement to acquire the Lyons Medical Center from the Hutchinson Clinic.
The acquisition is expected to be completed by the end of the year, with the hospital taking ownership Jan. 1.
The Lyons Medical Center will remain at 1221 W. Noble in Lyons. The building and practices are included in the agreement, according to George Stover, CEO for the hospital.
Roger Tobias, M.D. and Dale Diener, P.A. will continue to practice at the Lyons Medical Center. The transition process will include the retention of patient records at the same location and previously arranged appointments will remain as scheduled.
“We are proud of the hospital facility and the services it provides, and we are pleased to become a part of it. The people here have allowed themselves to be taxed for this hospital. I am glad to see the community utilize its services,” commented Tobias, who has practiced in Rice County for over 29 years. “I am grateful for all of the community support.”
Stover said the goal is to make this transition as seamless as possible.
“The decision by the hospital governing board to purchase the Lyons Medical Center is a step in assuring long-term access to care in Lyons and Rice County,” said Stover. “This acquisition is necessary to continue providing the best possible care to the community.”
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Right to Left: Maria Armendariz, Karla Pando, Paola Tavarez, in back Alexis Villanueva and Kaley Carrera, bottom right, perform a dance in honor of the Virgin Mary outside Birzer Funeral home, following funeral services for Jessie Salinas of Lyons, a request made by Salinas’ daughter, Ciera Villanueva. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) By LouAnn Cobb |
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Lyons mother of three Jennifer Brown was the recipient of the car giveaway at Jeremy’s Paint and Body Shop on Saturday, Dec. 17, south of Sterling. Brown was one of six Rice County residents considered for the National Benevolence Program. Local businesses in this program repair used vehicles that otherwise would be broken down for scrap, and give them to families in need. The 1996 Buick Park Avenue was donated by D&D Towing of Hutchinson and restored by Jeremy Kroeker and his staff.
Both Brown and her 13-year old daughter submitted letters in support of their application for the program. Brown’s need for a vehicle was the result of a late summer accident which totaled her van and left her depending on others to get her children to and from school.
In addition to the car, regional businesses donated other gifts including a car seat for Brown’s four-year old son, games, toys, food and gas certificates, and hair and skin products.
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Updated 12/16/11
The ruins of the Guerrero home at Elm and West Carpenter in Chase continue to smolder Tuesday afternoon. The fire started with a space heater and rekindled between the roof spaces causing the total loss. Photos by Debbie Wiens By Debbie Wiens |
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The blaze started sometime after the family left for work and school. When firemen from Chase, Lyons, and Bushton arrived around 8 a.m., the fire was contained to one room.
During the night Monday around 4 a.m., the fire rekindled and firefighters were called back out; at that time the house was fully engulfed. According to Guerrero, the fire was trapped between the wooden and metal roof structures which made it difficult to contain. The ruins continued to smolder and flare well into Wednesday, although there was nothing left standing. The cause of the fire is believed to be an overheated electric space heater, according to the Chase fire department.
“I was at work when I received a call from dispatch, wanting to make sure I made it to work okay,” said Guerrero. “They didn’t tell me why, though. Five minutes later I got a call from my dad, telling me the house was on fire!”
The family was able to retrieve the baby’s supply of formula as well as a new camera and laptop computer when they arrived shortly after firemen had extinguished the fire the first time. After the fire rekindled at night, all other contents of the house were destroyed. Also damaged were two vehicles, an SUV parked in the driveway which belongs to Guerrero’s father, and a pickup behind the house. “The house was paid for, but we had no insurance,” lamented Guerrero.
Guerrero’s parents also live in Chase, and she has several siblings in the area.
Guerrero, who works as an ELL paraeducator at Park Elementary School in Lyons, and her eighth grade daughter Jessica Torres, son Ismael Martinez - second grader at Park School, and five-month old daughter Aiyanna Guerrero are currently staying at the Lyons Inn. The Rice County Red Cross is...
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John Ludwick of Lyons dishes up homemade black walnut ice cream he made himself to residents of Noble Place. Related story Pg.3. |
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On Wednesday, Kansas Governor Brownback presented his education funding proposal to the State Board of Education. Policy Director Landon Fulmer unveiled a plan they say will provide more flexibility to local school districts, stabilize education funding for the long term, and give local school boards more power in making pocketbook decisions.
The plan would begin in the 2013-2014 school year and in addition to lifting the cap on local spending, would redistribute property taxes statewide to eliminate the inequity between wealthy and poorer school districts, the ...page 3
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Dear Editor,
Your gifts are urgently needed this year. It’s the time of year when all across the community you hear The Salvation Army bell ringers out and about in the community, and see our donation envelopes in The Lyons News. But this year the need is even greater and it is our hope that you might consider dropping some change into one of the red kettles while you are out shopping, or using one of the envelopes to mail in a donation. It is a sad reality that we are seeing more need among our neighbors this year.
Being able to provide the assistance that is needed to help people in crisis throughout the year comes from your generosity during this holiday season. Giving to your local Salvation Army makes an impact directly in your community. Eighty eight percent of the funds raised during the Christmas Season stays to assist families and individuals who live right here with things like rent/mortgage assistance, utility assistance, prescription medication, and many other critical needs.
We are so thankful to all those who have volunteered and those who have donated. We cannot thank you enough for everything that you do and or your support. Please consider giving again so that we can meet needs right here.
God Bless you all and Merry Christmas,
Randall Summit
Director of Service Extension
The Salvation Army Kansas and western Missouri
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| By LouAnn Cobb The Christmas Elves at Salem United Methodist Church in Bushton have been busy for the past twelve months, cutting, pinning and surging and stuffing. “We’ve been making the stockings for girls and boys of Rice County for more than 15 years,” said Sittner said. “It’s an annual project of the women of UMC and church members, an effort to support the Northern Rice County Goodfellows’ distribution project. “Church women make the stockings and members of our church families fill them,” said Sittner. There are no limits. They are free to take as many as they want home to complete. The only requirement we ask of them is to complete the tag that is attached to each stocking that includes who the stocking is intended for: teenage boy/girl; youth boy/girl: toddler boy/girl; or infant boy/girl. |
Kay McMillan, coordinator Northern Rice County Goodfellows, admires the Christmas stockings donated by Salem UMC. |
When the stockings are complete, Delbert Hoelscher of Bushton and his wife, Sherry, deliver them to the distribution center in Lyons, located on the northwest corner of Main and West Ave. North.
“The center takes if from there,” said Sittner.
While Sittner may be the push behind the stocking project, the credit goes to all the women of Salem who work hard...
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Updated 12/13/11
Aldens Fire Department is presented a check for $4,300 from TransCanada’s representative Chris Clarke and Territory Manager Gary Goad. Attending for the presentation of the check were Nick Mead, Don Oden, Terry Gartrell, Conrad Bates, Kevin Carter, Ed Kocher, Steve Nielsen, Scott Oden, Craig Bennett, Fire Chief Russ Kocher, and Jack Royer.
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The Smithsonian is coming to Lyons in September 2012, when the Coronado Quivira Museum will be the first host for a six-site Kansas tour of the traveling Smithsonian exhibit “The Way We Worked.”
The exhibit explores the stories of America’s workers and invites us to consider how the workplace and workforce have changed over time, using photographs from the National Archives, audio and video clips, and hands-on components.
The exhibition includes a companion exhibit put on by the museum as well as community programs to encourage discussion around issues of work in American Life. The Coronado Quivira Museum will host the exhibit from September-October 2012, courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution and the Kansas Humanities Council.
A committee is forming to help with activities including tour logistics, programming, exhibit de-installation/packing and administrative details. The first informational meeting for all of those interested in helping in a hands-on way will be at the Coronado Quivira Museum on Friday, Dec. 16 at 6 p.m. The agenda includes . . .
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Mark and Stacy Clark of Sterling entertain over 50 women at the annual Town and Country Club Holiday Champagne Brunch Saturday. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
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New homeowner, Gwen Hogg, receives a Bible and gift certificate from Jarrod Rowland, president of Habitat for Humanity Affiliate during the dedication ceremony that took place Sunday Habitat No. 11, located at 422 E. Ave. North in Lyons. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)
By LouAnn Cobb
Sunday marked a new beginning of a bittersweet journey for Gwen Hogg of Lyons when she received the keys to her new Habitat home at 422 E. Ave. North from Ralph Wilson, executive director, Habitat for Humanity for Rice County. With thoughts of her late father, “Boss” Hogg, Gwen Hogg graciously accepted the gift that had been bestowed on her and thanked the many volunteers who helped make it all possible,
This was supposed to be a handicap home so I could take care of “Boss” Hogg, Gwen Hogg said, but God had other plans and now its time for me to go forward with a new chapter of my life.
The completion of her three-bedroom home came a little later than scheduled but it was well worth the wait for Hogg. Following the dedication ceremony, volunteers started moving in boxes. Bright and early Monday morning, while Hogg was at work, decorator, Sharry “Smyth” Butcher of Overland Park, and a team of volunteer angels, worked diligently filling shelves with groceries, dishes and linens; and placing furniture pieces in their intended places throughout the house. With the clock ticking they hurried . . . .
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Updated 12/10/11
Local Girl Scout Troop 50042 of Lyons wins the youth and best “overall best” float in the 2011 Lyons Christmas parade, sponsored by Lyons Chamber. Despite predicted bad weather and several cancellations, the parade went off without a hitch. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)
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By Lucky Kidd
As the Lyons city council Monday night approved a new contract with City Administrator John Sweet, a suggestion was advanced to change the administrator’s position, along with that of the City Clerk and Chief of Police, from appointed to contracted employee status. Councilman Jerry Minix, who made the suggestion, cited recent history, where Mayor Mark Johnston made an unsuccessful attempt to remove Sweet and Police Chief Chris Detmer shortly after taking office, among other factors in proposing the change. Councilman Cecil Burdette also voiced support for the idea, saying it would be beneficial for the community in that it would provide continuity and security for those key positions. The council asked City Attorney Mark Tremaine to...
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The Board of Kansas Ethanol, LLC of rural Rice County has announced a donation of $25,000 for economic development in Rice County.
The company began its operation on Ave Q between Lyons and Sterling in 2007. They brought 38 direct new jobs into the area in addition to several ancillary businesses. Rice County facilitated an Economic Development Kansas Department of Commerce Community Development Block Grant for road improvements and driveways at the time of the construction of the new plant, along with tax incentives for the company.
“Rice County has supported Kansas Ethanol from the beginning conception of this plant. We are pleased to be able to give back to economic development and the growth of the county,” commented Mike Chisam, president & CEO of Kansas Ethanol.
Jack Bray, chairman of the Rice County Commission remarked, “It is with great pleasure that we accept the donation from Kansas Ethanol. The company has been such a positive force in the community bringing new employees, families and other companies to our area, in addition to giving our agriculture community added value for their products.” He continued, “We greatly appreciate Kansas Ethanol for this donation.”
The donation will be given to help fund the Rice County Revolving Loan Fund and will be distributed as $5,000 per year for the next five years.
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| Friends of Animals Christmas parade float include Jodi and Alex Lindsay with reindeer, Isabo and Jocey. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |  |
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Communities In Schools of Rice County was notified this week that their Early Childhood Block Grant has been renewed for 2012 for $150,698 from outside-the-county funding. The grant funding source is the Children’s Initiatives Fund administered through the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund made possible through the Master Tobacco Settlement dollars. The grant award requires ...
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One lucky Rice County family will receive an early Christmas surprise at noon on Dec. 17 when Jeremy’s Body Shop, Sterling, gives away a refurbished ‘96 Buick Park Avenue.
The giveaway will take place at the shop on Hwy 14 south of Sterling, and is a joint project of Jeremy’s Body Shop and Sikkens Paint Company. The car was in pretty good shape when they got it, said Jeremy Kroeker, owner of Jeremy’s, but had a blown motor they fixed, as well as a new paint job, and cleanup and repair of the interior.
The selection process involved soliciting applications from needy families in Rice County, and the family selected will find out at the giveaway.
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Updated 12/1/11
| By LouAnn Cobb Shirley Kelley of Lyons spent a good part of Saturday morning dusting furniture, straightening pictures and sweeping crumbs off the kitchen floor. ‘Tis the season, she said, and after six years, time to put the eight-room, three-story Victorian dollhouse back on display. Armed with a handful of Q-tips and a bottle of Orange Glow, Kelley worked her way, room by room, cleaning and polishing, making sure each item was in its proper place. For such a tedious job to take on, it is well worth the time for Kelley, who welcomes time to reflect back on the memories and stories of her life. |
Shirley Kelley of Lyons takes a walk down memory lane as she inspects the rooms of her eight-room Victorian dollhouse. Each room has working lights and is unique. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
This amazing three-story mansion is loaded with everything imaginable. What makes Kelley’s doll house unique it that she has figured out creative ways to incorporate bits of family history throughout: photos, floor and wall treatments, framed art, window treatments, floral designs and even a tiny framed picture of Shirley Temple, Kelley’s maiden name. From the front porch to the kitchen sink, everything has some connection to Kelley’s life.
Interestingly enough, Kelley said she was able to acquire this “small fortune” without much conflict after her husband came home with a new golf cart.
When I told Ben I had found a dollhouse with windows that opened up he thought it was much too expensive, Kelley said. But when I mentioned the golf cart he had a sudden change of heart and that puppy was in the back seat this fast, Kelley said.
Everything that is in the house, from furniture to décor, Kelley has either made or collected. The beautiful canopy trimmed with lace in the blue bedroom is made from a checkbook box. Miniature crocheted table covers, bedspreads and . . .
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By Lucky Kidd
An updating of the city of Lyons' investment policies is in the works. The city council at their Nov. 21 meeting discussed this during city Treasurer Joan Davison's third quarter report. In recent years, the city has been rolling over certificates of deposit as they mature. Davison said a $201,000 CD currently is paying an interest rate of .3 percent. Local bankers provided a form letter regarding how the city might proceed on this. Aside from a tight situation in the General Fund which was expected, the city is in good financial shape. City Administrator John Sweet reported the city has received reimbursement from KDOT for the KLINK project on East Main and North Grand, and have paid back funds borrowed from the Gas Fund.
As part of the treasurer's report, 2011 financial information from the swimming pool was reviewed. While pool operations showed a loss of $27,597.84, that loss was less than seen in prior years. That also does not include concession operations, which showed a profit of just over $6,000.
The council accepted a recommendation from a working group and approved hiring Landmark Architects of Hutchinson to design a new City Hall-Library Complex. Landmark was one of 15 firms that submitted proposals, and while its $5,300 dollar proposal was not the lowest bid, the group recommended Landmark based on . . .
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A Lyons woman was taken to the hospital after her vehicle rolled near Ellinwood.
Cynthia Glass, 56, was westbound on U.S. 56 about 6:15 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 21 when the 2006 Buick SUV she was driving left the roadway. It went into the north ditch, where it rolled three or four times, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.
Glass was taken to Great Bend Regional Hospital. She was wearing a seat belt, the patrol reported.
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Quilts, nativity scenes, and a carousel horse dressed for the holidays will highlight the Rice County Historical Society Christmas display Saturday at Celebration Centre in Lyons. It will be in the east room as part of the Centre’s Christmas Bazaar featuring vendors in the main hall.
The hand-carved and constructed wooden horse is the work of Herman Gladow, father of Lyons attorney Firman Gladow. A stone mason with an eye for measurement and design, he began to replicate merry-go-round horses he saw at events near his home in Manhattan. At first the horses were given to the families of each of his three children. His interest led to contacts with manufacturers of merry-go-rounds who began buying horses and parts of horses with which they made the molds used in casting metal figures.
This year’s event will include displays arranged by 19 individuals and five organizations.
Individuals and displays are Shirley Kelley, tree; Sally Robinson, tree; Liz Higgins, toys; Kay and Brice McMillan, nativities; Marcie Crandall and Debbie and Cody Whiteman, snowmen; Phyllis Hughes, carolers; Helen Stockstill, bells; Marian Ankerholz, green coin glass; Kate Rumford and JoNelle Hayes, dishes; and Firman and Raleighta Gladow, carousel horse. Others with displays will be John and Carolyn Sayler, Zoe Miner and Jean Swisher.
Organizations are Communities in Schools of Rice County, a tree with ornaments made by children; Silver Threads and Celebration Centre, trees; and Piecemakers of Lyons and Twisted Stickers of Claflin, quilted items.
The event is free and is scheduled for 8 a.m. until 3 p.m.
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Kelli Altvater and Gabrielle Graber apply primer to walls in the former Waddell & Reed offices on West Ave South. |
Changes are afoot on the southwest corner of the square. The building housing Waddell & Reed offices and A Moment in Time is undergoing remodeling on the east end of the building, which will be the new home for A Moment In Time, currently on the west end. Waddell & Reed will move into the smaller area now occupied by A Moment in Time. |
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The Nov. 14, 2011 meeting of the Rice County Board of County Commissioners was held at 9 a.m. in the commissioner’s room in the courthouse, with Commissioners Jack Bray and Derek McCloud present, President Bray presiding. The agenda and the minutes of the Nov. 7, 2011 meeting were approved with no public comments.
John Sweet, Lyons city administrator, and John Riggs, Riggs Associates of Lindsborg, appeared to present Commissioners with the petition for annexation of property to the city of Lyons. The property runs along the north side of Highway 56 from the present city limits on the north side to a point even with the city limits on the south side, and is in conjunction with the city of Lyons 2014 Geometric Improvement Program.
Public Works Administrator Dennis Wray appeared to update commissioners on various projects at his department.
Ed Feil, Rice County rural fire chief, and Russell Stephenson, assistant chief, appeared to request permission to make several purchases.
Motions approved for purchases were as follows: 2012 Ford 4X4 from Midway Motors in the amount of $26,037; 16 sets of bunker gear from Municipal Emergency Services, Inc. for $27,871.36; 25 units of foam, 5 gallons per unit, from Municipal Emergency Services, Inc, cost not to exceed $1,925; radios and pagers, 14 units in all, from Mobile Radio Service, cost not to exceed $5,600.
The Board of County Commissioners adjourned and reconvened as the Public Building Commission. Bray signed Resolution PBC 2011-4, authorizing the issuance of $5,905,000 Refunding Revenue Bonds (Hospital District #1). Commissioners adjourned as Public Building Commission and reconvened as Board of County Commissioners.
Upon request, commissioners interpreted a paragraph on page 602 in the Administration Handbook, dealing with employees who are in Military Reserves or National Guard, to mean that reservists will receive up to two weeks of county pay when fulfilling the annual training obligation, and will not need to use paid leave.
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Updated 11/24/11
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Left above: Vehicles from the Lyons Police and fire departments line the driveways at LHS Friday afternoon. Right: Firemen unload ladder used to search on top of building.
A typical Friday afternoon at Lyons High School took a turn for the worse around noon on Nov. 18 as students, faculty and staff were evacuated due to a bomb threat found in the building. According to Superintendent Gary Sechrist, “Graffiti was found in one of the boys restrooms which said ‘There is a bomb’.”
At that point, Kelly Nusser, LHS principal, implemented district policy, and after notifying Sechrist, ordered the evacuation of the students to a safe location, and called law enforcement. Students were taken out to buses north of the building, where they remained until the building was deemed safe by the incident commander, police Lt. Russell Hammer.
Law enforcement responding included Rice County sheriff’s officers as well as Lyons police officers. Fire and rescue equipment and personnel were also on the scene, and conducted a search of interior and exterior spaces, according to Sechrist.
District administrative personnel ...
ABOVE: USD 405 Food Service personnel wait in LHS parking lot after evacuation. RIGHT: Firemen set up to inspect roof spaces.
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Jill Nichols of Lyons and daughters, Mindy and Melody put the finishing touches on their “SantaPaws,” tree. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
By LouAnn Cobb
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Central School third-graders proudly display their new Scholastic Children’s Dictionaries given by Lyons Rotary Club. Third grade teachers are Rhonda Feldman, Bren McGuire and Susan Reazin.
ABOVE: Project chairman Bob Friesen introduces book to group.
RIGHT: Lizbeth Lovar beams as she receives her copy of the dictionary. |
Chattering excitedly, Central School third-graders shared findings in their brand-new Scholastic Children’s Dictionaries given to them by the Lyons Rotary Club at an assembly Friday, Nov.18. The dictionary project is a joint effort between the Lyons club and Rotary Club of Colorado Springs InterQuest which distributes 26,000 hardcover dictionaries to USA Rotary Clubs annually. Since 2001 nearly seven million dictionaries have been presented to third grade students across the USA without cost to the student, teacher or district.
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Updated 11/18/11
By Austin Jasper
Last Saturday at 4:05 a.m., a male and a female walked into the Kaps convenience store on the corner of Main Street and Highway 14 and bought items with what authorities have confirmed as a counterfeit $20 bill.
The attendant on duty noticed that the two people were behaving suspiciously and as they went to pay for the items, they reportedly pulled out “a stack” of $20 bills. The attendant noticed the bill given to him was a fake, and was able to write down the vehicle’s tag number as they left before he reported the crime to the Lyons Police Department.
Minutes later the two people returned to make another purchase. The male waited in a pickup truck as the female went in to the store to buy them something to drink. The attendant stalled for time as he waited for a police officer to arrive.
Upon the officer’s arrival, the male who was still waiting in the truck fled on foot, and the female, after leaving the store, was approached by the officer. The attendant said that the officer exchanged words with the female before she threw two Gatorade bottles at him, then attempted to make her escape on foot.
Four hours later the woman walked into Dollar General and was called in to the police by store clerks who became suspicious when they noticed that she had . . .
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Cindy Sinclair and husband Kirk, the hiking humaniarian, arrive in Lyons Saturday afternoon to meet with members of the Lions Club to promote community involvement and volunteerism. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
By LouAnn Cobb
Cindy Sinclair and her husband, Kirk Sinclair, the hiking humanitarian, entered the city limits of Lyons Saturday afternoon, after spending Wednesday and Thursday in Great Bend. A homemade potluck dinner that had been prepared by members of Lyons Lions Club was waiting for them at Country Place Senior Living. The captive audience was eager to learn more about the American Discovery Trail across America.
On the trails, Sinclair’s goal is to educate and inform his audience about the humanitarian needs regarding housing, health and hunger and to gather personal information about how different communities work to problem solve and enhance the places they live.
“We document how people and communities are kind to their own and how they have been kind to us,” Sinclair said. “Community involvement is the key. Become a volunteer. Have a spoonful of kindness in your cup of coffee every morning. One is just as likely to fill you up as the other.”
Sinclair and his wife encourage people to roll up their sleeves and begin working “with” each other, not “for” each other.
“Cindy and I do this because we care,” Sinclair said.
Before Sinclair started with the American Discovery Trail he was a scientist, a member of one of the most altruistic species on this planet.
“Our kind would die for one another over abstract causes,” Sinclair said. “Beyond that, we can feel each other’s pain and joy. How bizarre is that?”
Their 5,000-mile journey from the west coast to the east was, and continues to be, an eye-opening adventure. While traveling across the Nevada-Utah desert, the couple endured three straight weeks of temperatures exceeding 100 degrees.
Gaiters, stretchy covers over shoes and lower pant legs, provide protection from unwelcome hitchhikers like . . .
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By Paul Jones
The temporary concrete batch plant is in place, the mining out of extension wings 400 feet in length was to be completed by today, the V-shaped roof has been excavated, and the V-shaped floor is coming soon, as Lyons Salt Company prepares for the construction of a water-containing bulkhead in its mine 1,000 feet below an area just southwest of Lyons.
Semi-trailer trucks have been hauling in sand, aggregate and cement this week in preparation for a test pour December 6. Actual construction is expected to begin in late December.
The bulkhead is one of the most complex projects in a mining area in North America this year, said Ken Grimm, executive vice president of BSC Holding Company, the parent of Central Salt which includes the Lyons mine. It became necessary because of water dripping into the mine from strata between the surface and the mined-out area. Earlier efforts to stop the leakage, which is not an immediate problem but would have been one over the long haul, were unsuccessful.
The batch plant is a mile and a half west and a quarter-mile south of the intersection of highway K96/14 and American Road. It sits over a . . .
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Updated 11/15/11
Lyons High JROTC cadets stand at attention during the Veteran’s Day celebration Friday Morning. “We are extremely fortunate and very proud to have our AFJROTC program at LHS that provides a wide range of opportunities to do so many of our students relating to leadership and community service. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)
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Three JROTC cadets stand at attention as the POW-MIA ceremonies begin Friday morning (11/11/11) at Lyons High School, and ending with a moment of silence at 11:11 a.m. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)
Elizabeth Peterson and daughter, Emma, 21 months, enjoy the many floats in the Veterans Day Parade together. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
“It made me proud to say I am employed by USD 405 and a citizen of Lyons” Gary Sechrist, superintendent USD 405”
By LouAnn Cobb
Kelly Nusser, Lyons High School Principal sent this notice to his faculty and staff:
“Tomorrow will be 11/11/11, the only time most of us will ever experience this moment,” Nusser said.
The following morning at approximately 10:45 a.m., with the cooperation of LHS music program, under the direction of Craig Allison, and LHS AFJROTC unit, under the guiding influence of Col. Roscoe Griffin and Tech Sergeant James Eskut, the high school band, faculty and staff and members of the student body took their places around the circle in front of the school.
The soft Kansas winds and sunny skies illuminated that moment in time, while the rope clanked against the lifeless flagpole. JROTC cadets, dressed in uniform, stood in place, silently waiting for the ceremony to begin. A special place was prepared for veterans and their guests.
In the middle of the circle a small round table with a draped white cover was prepared with one table setting. A chair draped with a POW flag was tilted up against the table.
With the sounds of the Star Spangled Banner in the background, LHS instructor, Mark Schottler addressed the attentive crowd as the American flag was raised.
“My name is Mark Schottler and I was one of those who proudly served, so I will try to help you understand what Veteran’s Day is,” he said. “When we put on our uniforms, an unspoken, unseen. . .
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“I discovered a way to make my own decisions regarding my life, my future and how to be happy” Tyler Whorton, operations officer S3, Fort Riley
By LouAnn Cobb
It was standing room only at last Friday’s Chamber Coffee Veteran’s Day celebration, hosted by Roger Lippelmann and his employees at Rickabaugh Motors in Lyons. In keeping with tradition, biscuits and gravy were served up to all who attended.
Lyons High School JROTC cadets, participated along with JROTC Col. Roscoe Griffin and JROTC Tech Sergeant James Eskut.
Lippelmann recognized all veterans in the crowd and then turned the program over to former Army Captain, Tyler Whorton, who served his country and is now back in the states, currently working for Hospira in McPherson as a production supervisor.
“The experience of change is well worth the difficult work that was required of me to get where I wanted to be,” Whorton said.
After high school, Whorton attended Fort Hays and graduated from Sterling College with a degree in biology. He spent the following year in Taos Ski Valley working as a ski lift operator, trying to figure out what to do with his life.
“I was just going through the motions,” Whorton said.
During a year of soul-searching Whorton was able to find himself.
“I discovered a way to make my own decisions regarding my life, my future and how to be happy,” Whorton said.
The night before he enlisted in the army, he couldn’t get the words from Jeremiah 6: 8 out of his mind: “Whom can I send? Who will go for us? So here I am, send me!”
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Updated 11/8/11
By LouAnn Coibb
Eight Rice County grant recipients were awarded a combined total of $24,096 from Rice Community Healthcare Foundation at the close of the RCDH Fall Health Festival Thursday. Awards were made by Susan Sankey, executive director, RCHF. In her presentation, Sankey quoted the famous Aristotle - “To give away money is an easy matter and in any man’s power. But to decide to whom to give it and how large and when, and for what purpose and how, is neither in every man’s power nor an easy matter,” she said. “This year eight organizations that serve Rice County have been selected to receive grants from RCHF.” Sankey said.
Rice County EMS - Terry David accepted on behalf of Rice County Emergency Medical Services. Funds will be used to help update patient transport equipment.
Rice County Health Department - Marci Detmer and members of her staff were elated to receive this award. The grant will be used for their “Cover Your Kids” campaign.
Good Samaritan Society - Orie Ensz, administrator, Good Samaritan Society of Lyons, was pleased to have been chosen as a recipient. GSS will purchase physical therapy equipment that will better help in serving the patients at the Chirst-centered assisted living facility.
Lyons Recreation Commission - Junior Soeken, Irons Works in Lyons, accepted. The grant funding will be used to purchase electronic step pedometers for the fitness center.
USD No. 444 - Windom Elementary School - Betsy Lafferty accepted the generous gift which will be used to promote “Movin’ and Shakin’ for Health” at WES.
Little River Learning Center - Focusing on “Healthy snacks making healthy bodies, Becky Sears accepted the award on behalf of the learning center.
Sterling Presbyterian Manor - Educational programs for residents are important and Sarah Galbraith, was pleased to receive the grant on behalf of Sterling Presbyterian Manor.
Sterling Recreation Commission and USD No. 376, Sterling - Clelia McCrory and Jill Rowland accepted the grant award for “Spinning creates strong cardio yet low impact lifespan exercise” program.
Rice County District Hospital Administrator, George Stover, introduced RDHF board members and Sankey paid tribute to Shirley Fair, Gary Proffitt and Dale Snyder for their services on the board of directors, to Bob Mullen, former hospital administrator, for years of guidance and as secretary-treasurer and to Corky Cooprider as office secretary.
“Your work is tremendous and very much appreciated,” Sankey said.
RCHF board members include:. . .
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Jonathan Hoskins, 9, of Lyons gets a tattoo at the Emergency Medical Services booth Thursday at Rice County Districti Hospital Fall Health Festival and gives the thumbs up for younger sister, McKenna, 7, as Shawn Britton, EMS, applies her tattoo. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
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Once again Lyons will host a Veterans Parade sponsored by the American Legion Post 129 and the VFW Post 3184. Both organizations are sponsoring the parade that will be held this Saturday at 11 a.m.
This is the second year of sponsorship that recognizes those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, and the survivors of the armed conflicts who protected the freedom of the United States.
Floats that have been entered may be selected as Best Entry. The winner will be chosen and awarded $100 by special guest J. Elmer, Kansas State Senator, who will also be the event Emcee and Program Announcer.
There will be an opening ceremony with the Lyons High School marching band, an invocation given by Mr. Elmer, the presentation of a wreath on the veterans memorial located on the town square, as well as taps presented in honor of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice and those that have survived the horrors of war.
The American Legion Riders will lead off with a flag salute, with Lyons High School JROTC and the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary as the color guard. Other entries will include local and wide area car clubs, schools, private and public supporting agencies, as well as local patriotic citizens.
Residents are invited to come come to the event support the veterans and local heroes this Saturday. Anyone wanting to enter a float may contact Clark Elliot at elliot1439@sbcglobal.net.
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| Pam Powell of Sterling rolls 3’s Saturday at Town and County Bunko Night. (Photo by L Cobb) CobbCobb) |  |
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Lyons has been selected as one of the 14 cities to receive funding from the Kansas Department of Transportation for the Geometric Improvement Program.
The Geometric Improvement Program is to improve intersections and address road deficiencies in 14 cities from around the state. Cities that have been selected will receive, fiscal year 2014, funding under the KDoT’s Geometric Improvement Program. Three South-Central Kansas cities have been selected and include Lyons, Newton, and Wellington.
The Lyons project will widen US-56 from two-lanes to four-lanes from the city limits on the west side, continuing east to the existing four lane section. Total estimated project cost are $1,135,900 but because construction will not begin until 2014, local residents will not see the change anytime soon.
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Updated 11/4/11
Trick or Treat on the Trails... Beta Sigma Phi KittyKats, Tina Ludwig, Stacey Deutsch, Sherri Knight and Alissa Deutsch brighten up the trails with their orange and black cat stripe costumes.
(photo by LouAnn Cobb)
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By LouAnn Cobb
William Steele |
Four lucky kids received a phone call the following day by Kate Rumford from the foundation to tell them they had won the four bicycles given away by Sterling: Konner Fundenberger, C.J. Revel, Melanie Cereceres and William Steele.
Melanie Cereceres Trick or Treat on the Trails continues to draw large crowds. Area businesses go out of their way to make it a fun evening for the kids and their families with over-the-top costumes, decorations and effects. The community can take pride in knowing they have a safe environment for the kids to enjoy one of the most popular holidays throughout the year. |
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“Participants also earn a reduction in their potential to develop cardiovascular disease, type II diabetis, sleep apnea and certain types of cancer” Mary Konen, Weigh Down Wars
By LouAnn Cobb
As a member of the Kansas Hospital Association. Hospital District No. 1, Rice County District Hospital in Lyons, strives to strengthen the communities it serves.
RCCH recognizes it’s role in providing programs that help families improve “Quality of Life” while providing peace of mind, fostering safety and creating opportunities for people to improve their lives.
One of these programs is Weigh Down Wars, a 12-week weight loss challenge was first started in November 2010 to help persons who are interested in getting through the holidays without the usual three to eight-pound weight gain and to teach them how to have well-being and good health for a lifetime.
The next Weigh Down 12-week program begins Monday, Nov. 21 at RCDH. Teams of three from Lyons and the surrounding communities will compete to lose the highest percentage of weight. Personal starting and ending weights will not be posted or announced at. . .
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Debra Duntz of Raymond visits with two Wisconsin men who stopped overnight Monday in the western Rice County town, en route from Wisconsin to New Mexico. Their modernized wagon has bucket seats, and an enclosed living area with cooking and sleeping facilities.
By Paul Jones
Raymond played host Monday night to two cross-country travelers, and a couple of mules, who were not the average passers-by.
Richard Meunier and Harvey Baumgartner are traveling from their home in Wisconsin to New Mexico, a 1,500-mile distance, in a somewhat-modernized wagon pulled by the mules.
The men have padded bucket seats, and in the enclosed cabin of the wagon, have cooking and sleeping facilities. They are more than a month into their journey, and camped on the old football field at the north edge of the western Rice County town. They strung a temporary electric fence to keep the mules in place for the night, and enjoyed the company of Raymond residents before they bedded down for the night. They left at daybreak Tuesday morning.
They average 25 miles a day, and told a news interviewer in Topeka several days earlier that “they knew the trip would be long, but the mules do little things that keep their spirits up.” Meunier plays the guitar when they get bored, and they confess that they have their fair share of bickering.
Debra Duntz, Raymond resident, said the men told her they just wanted to experience life at a slower pace than normal.
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The Lyons Food Bank is taking donations and is open every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.. The food bank will be closed on Tuesday Dec. 27, this year. |
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Updated 11/1/11
ITV tele-video telemed services are now available in Rice County through Sterling Presbyterian Manor
Mary Konen, coordinator for RCDH Fall Festival, checks the blood pressure of the giant stuffed teddy bear that will be given away to a lucky child who participates in the Teddy Bear Clinic from 3 to 7 p.m. at Celebration Centre Thursday. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
By LouAnn Cobb |
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Brooklyn Smith, pre-K, puts on a show for the residents at Lyons Senior Center Monday morning, part of Park Elementary’s “Parade of Costumes. (photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
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By LouAnn Cobb Gene and Millie James of Lyons offer an evening of thrills and spooktacular fun for Halloween Trick-or-Treater’s each year at their West Taylor residence. Nestled back among the tall trees and lining the drive, giant interactive Halloween blow-ups greet visitors in costume, surprising and even scaring the bravest of witches, ghosts and goblins who dare to stop by for something to eat. This is the fourth year for the display that keeps on growing. The kids usually stop by after Trick or Treat on the Trails, said Gene James. “All the blow-ups are well secured to the ground and tied into the tall trees that surround the residence because they are so heavy,” James said. “We try to add more every year. Weather permitting, visitors this year might see a 7-foot Grim Reaper and a caged skeleton in a cage, shaking the bars and screaming, “Help, get me out!” |
“The castle is the overall favorite each year,” said James. “The kids have to walk through it to get to the front door, activating strobe lights that go on and off and a laughing witch. I love seeing the look on their faces. We do it for the kids. It’s all about having fun Halloween night.”
Some are scared and others just mesmerized by all the noise and movements. A black hearse with horses has a corpse that rises out of a coffin inside. At the entrance to the cemetery a spider makes a webb over a mummy that spins. A monster playing creepy music on a large organ while other monsters spin and dance. A large black cat crouch down in the grass looks from side to side, keeping an eye on every visitor.
It takes the couple a day to put them all up and a day to take them down. We usually let them down at night when the temperatures are cooler or when the wind is blowing, James said.
“I think the kids enjoy them all,” James said. “We usually have a nice crowd.
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Updated 10/28/11
By LouAnn Cobb
It’s been nine years since I first investigated the folklore of young women who died from a broken heart after the death of her betrothed. Dressed in a wedding dress and carrying a bouquet of flowers, with a preacher by her side, she anticipated the marriage to her beau and waited on the platform of a small Mid-western depot station for his arrival. Her dreams were shattered and she was overcome with grief when the train passed her by, carrying her lover off to war and eventually to his untimely death. Distraught by the ordeal, the young woman haunted the small town looking for him. The depot was later moved to a location south of Ellinwood and the spirit of the ghost bride followed, continuing her search for her lost love. Her hope was that one-day he would return to her at that one familiar site.
Over the years many people claim to have had an encounter with this fair maiden ghost. Dressed in a white wedding gown, her face covered with a veil and carrying a bouquet of flowers, she moves quietly, slithering and hovering in and out of the prairie landscapes in search of her groom. Some people think these happenings are the tallest of tales, an exaggeration of a story told before. Others set claim to what they have seen, still a mystery today, leaving the reader to ponder as to the possibility and maybe even a truth to these intriguing circumstances. I decided it was time to revisit these stories to see if anything has changed. If you are a seeker of the unknown and have no fear, come along with me and discover what you do believe …
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The children of Lyons were sent home this past week with flyers reminding parents of Trick or Treat on the Trail this Halloween. Startinig at 6 p.m. and ending at 8 p.m., Trick or Treat on the Trail is where local businesses, churches, and citizens set up booths and dress in Halloween attire to hand out candy to local children on the half-mile walking trail located on the east side of the Celebration Centre. The Celebration Centre is expecting anywhere from 800 to 1000 children to make an appearance.
The foundation will be handing out cider and bags of popcorn and there will be games where children can score little prizes or more candy. A youth girls bicycle and a youth boys bicycle given away as well as the buisness, church, or citizen with the best booth will be awarded a $25 gift card. “We encourage anyone in the county to come out to celebrate Halloween,” said Cheryl Miller, Director of the Celebration Center,”it is a safe and controlled environment for you children to trick or treat in”. This event is free to anyone in the community and as some will start lining up for the event at 5 p.m., it is advised to watch for young children while in the parking lot.
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Natural Gas prices this winter are projected to be lower than it has been in the past several years and should be cheaper than they were last year. City officials will continue to monitor and explore alternate ways to reduce the cost of natural gas and are expecting a warmer than normal winter again, which will help the amount of natural gas needed to heat homes and businesses within the community.
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On Oct. 5, Rice County’s Drought Warning was escalated to Drought Emergency by Governor Sam Brownback.
On Oct. 18, the city of Lyons reviewed the issue of continuing or . . .
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Construction of the two bridges south of Lyons on Hwy. 14 has been holding up traffic since early this year. However, weather permitting, drivers may soon be free of the bothersome traffic signals that are placed on the highway.With the north bridge near completion, construction workers are hoping to get the cement for the west half of the bridge’s platform poured within the next two weeks. In addition to pouring the cement, on each side of the bridge there is a stretch that will require the laying of asphalt. “Were hoping to get it open before winter time,” said Barry McManaman, employee of Kansas Department of Transportation, “we’ve got 700 ft. of asphalt to lay on either side of the bridge, and we’ll be able to do that if the weather holds and it doesn’t get too cold.”
The construction of the bridges is still on schedule and the whole project should come to an end next spring.
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By Paul Jones
Hutchinson Optometrist Dr. Jeffery Schletzbaum has closed his once-a-week Lyons practice, effective last week.
Dr. Schletzbaum saw patients here between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., at l20 East Avenue North, across from the Post Office. The location had long held an optometrist practice, having been occupied for years by Dr. Ron Huffman.
Dr. Schletzbaum has referred patients to his Hutchinson office at 2311 North Waldron.
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One Mexican food store in Lyons has closed, another has opened, and the first one established here continues in business.
La Maria Elena Food Market, at 110 North Grand Avenue just north of the Grand/Main Street intersection, is closed. The owners could not be reached for comment, and it is not known whether the closing is temporary or permanent, but its phone has been taken out of service.
Recently Soto’s Food Store opened at a location just south of the southeast corner of the square, a location most recently housing H and R Block accounting office.
El Rinconcito Mexican Store, at the Grand/Main intersection, continues in business, both as a food store and a small restaurant. Since its opening several years ago it has increased in size, with an addition to the west of the main location, which formerly served as a service station office, an insurance agency site, and a tobacco store.
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Updated 10/25/11
NEW STRUCTURE TAKES SHAPE
This building is going up on the North side of the Lyons football stadium, adjacent to the home bleachers. The structure should be ready for to serve patrons during the spring sports schedule this academic year. It will house concessions, om the west side, and bathrooms.
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USD 405 was recently given good news when the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) released the list of buildings achieving the standard of excellence designation based on the 2011 state assessments.
“The criteria for receiving these awards included making Adequate Yearly Progress in the “all student” group and then attaining a percentage of students in the exemplary and academic warning performance levels,” Doug Higgins, principal Central Grade School. “USD 405 is very proud of the accomplishments of all the students on the state assessments and the teachers who prepared them so well in the classroom.,” said Higgins.
Central School was awarded eight Standard of Excellence certificates. The certificates were; 3rd, 4th and 5th grade reading, building level in reading, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade math and building level for mathematics.
Lyons Middle School was awarded four . . .
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We invite travelers to ‘go see and immerse’ themselves in Kansas” Mona Carver, supervisor KTIC, Goodland By LouAnn Cobb |
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Kansas currently has two state-owned centers that offer assistance to travelers, both a convenient and great opportunity to pick up maps and brochures, search for attractions and events, find accommodations throughout the state, the best places to eat or get directions.
Located at Goodland I-70 East and Belle Plaine 770 N. I-35, these centers are staffed with travel counselors, who are available Sept, 16 through May 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. from May 15 to Sept. 15 to assist travelers with safety tips, to provide the most recent weather information and to relate where to expect road construction. Complimentary coffee and in Kansas hot tea is available and both centers are family friendly with clean restrooms, drinking water, gift shops, picnic areas and at some centers pet exercising areas.
Traveling east from Colorado and stopping at the Goodland Center, visitors are welcomed by the large Kansas Sunflower mosaic located at the entrance to the facility; the Kansas Seal as they enter the door, a display of sandstone tiles on either side of the entrance walls; and a large resource . . .
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Chamber Coffee CornerSteve Bergmeier, Culligan of Lyons, welcomes a crowd at Friday’s Chamber Coffee as Thane Frazier looks on. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
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Rice County Sheriff’s office responded to a reported theft at 1975 15th Road outside of Sterling at 7:13 p.m., Sunday evening.
The victim reported a total of 14 to 15 pumpkins had been taken from their pumpkin patch sometime during the day. No arrests have been made and any information related to the case should be submitted to the Rice County Sheriffs office.
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Updated 10/21/11
Olive’s Pumpkin Patch will offer Roast Pig this Saturday from 5 to 7 p.m. for $8 a plate. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
Seth Winget, 9, helps Penelope Rugan pick a pumpkin at Olive’s Pumpkin Patch, south of Ellinwood. (Courtesy photo) |
Penelope Rugan looks through the pile of pumpkins to find the perfect one for her younger sister, Siona. Over 700 pumpkins were picked since Olives Pumpkin Patch opened Oct. 1st. (Courtesy Photo)
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By LouAnn Cobb
Get ready for two hours packed with fun, games, prizes and food Monday afternoon at Rice County District Hospital Rehab Services. In celebration of National Physical Therapy Month, the hospital will host an open house from 4 to 6 p.m. in the rehab gym, just off the front lobby of the hospital, featuring the Rehab Department and everything they have to offer.
Members of the community are encouraged to drop by for snacks, door prizes and an explanation of the different areas of the department that include:
Activities of Daily Living Kitchen: a full functioning kitchen where patients can practice meal preparation, bathtub transfers, how to move around safely prior to leaving the hospital.
Aquatic therapy pool: promotes ease of movement and decreased weight bearing while exercising in 92-degree water. Cardiovascular patients benefit from the underwater treadmill without effects of gravity on joints.
“We utilize the pool with return-to-sports clients, stabilization after surgery and range of motion following a total knee replacement,” said Karla Peter. manager rehabilitation services.
Strength training: Beneficial following an injury or surgery.
Decompression Equipment: Used for management of back or neck pain caused by bulging or herniated disks.
Fall prevention: Involving specialized exercises that work on static and dynamic balance in a variety of positions and changing surfaces. Balance exercises may be indicated after a stroke, ankle or knee surgery or sport injury.
“The role of the physical therapist is to improve and restore motion to people’s lives,” said Peter. “In 2009, our local hospital made the important decision to have it’s own therapy staff, rather than contracted therapists. This decision has proven to have a great positive impact on the services we are able to provide to the local residents of our community and the surrounding area.”
According to R. Scott Ward, PT, PhD, President of American Physical Therapy Association, no matter the area of physical therapy practice, whether it is geriatrics, pediatrics, orthopedics, women’s health or another specialty. . .
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By Paul Jones
For the fourth year in a row, Kansas Ethanol, three miles south of Lyons, has received an “Award of Excellence,” which is given to the top 10 percent of ethanol producers who “demonstrated the highest commitment to safety and generated the highest combined scores in the area of safety,” according to ERI Solutions, the industry leader for safety services.
Actually, Kansas Ethanol, which had the very top rating the past three years, fell a notch due to two injury accidents the past year, not considered serious but one of which resulted in loss of work time.
The company had experienced 1,192 of injury-fee production, beginning from the starting date for the company, before the record was broken. However, Jennifer Dellar, safety manager for the company, pointed out Kansas Ethanol is still in the top 10 percent, and is now engaged in establishing a new record.
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Come learn how to help October 25, 2 p.m. in the conference room at Rice County Health Dept.
A CPR class will be offered at Sterling Presbyterian Manor, 204 W. Washington, Sterling, Oct. 26 from 1 to 4 p.m. This American Heart Association class will certify participants in adult, child, and infant CPR, and the use of an Automatic Electronic Defibulator (AED). The class meets the requirements for Healthcare Providers, but is also open to the general public. The cost of the class is $25. Contact Michael Rajewski, Executive Director for more information or to register at 620-278-3651. Space is limited.
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Updated 10/14/11
By Paul Jones
A Lyons man, 53-year-old Stanley Points, is being held in the Rice County Jail under a one-million-dollar bond as he awaits further action on six felony sexual charges against him. He appeared before the Rice County District Court Wednesday at which time he waived his preliminary hearing, and asked for a trial before a jury.
Points was originally charged, on July 7, with three counts, but the complaint against him was amended Wednesday by the Kansas Attorney General’s office, which is prosecuting the case, to include six counts.
He is now charged with three counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, two counts of attempted rape, and one count of sexual exploitation of a child.
Each of the charges carry a possible sentence of life in prison, with a . .
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By Paul Jones
Four of the five City of Lyons water wells are now operating, alleviating a possible crises which was feared earlier this month when only two of the five were operational.
The city had been under a voluntary “stage one water conservation” program, according to City Administrator John Sweet, and while that program is still in effect, the emergency which would have occurred if one of the only two wells operating earlier had malfunctioned has been alleviated.
Repaired in the last week were one well which had been damaged by an electrical strike, and one which had been shut down after its old control panel burned out. In the case of the fifth well, one repair part has been ordered, and it should be operating within a couple of weeks.
The State of Kansas has designated Rice County as a drought warning area, one step below drought emergency, which is the classification for Reno County. While ample water is now available for Lyons residents, Sweet said that the water table from which that product is drawn is still four and a half feet below average, and last weekend’s rain, which came gently over two days and produced approximately an inch and a half of moisture, mainly soaked into the dry ground, and did little if anything to replenish the water table.
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Residents celebrate the 100th anniversary of Rice County Courthouse with refreshments following the ceremony. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)
| By LouAnn Cobb A welcomed crowd gathered on the north side of Rice County Courthouse to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Rice County Courthouse. Commissioner Bill Oswalt, acting as master of ceremonies, introduced a line-up that included Maggie Carlson, director/curator Coronado-Quivira Museum; District Judge, Mike Keeley of Great Bend; Tracy Bloom, Grand Master of Freemasons, Higgins, Rice County Sheriff, Patrick Zollner, representing KSHS and Kansas Governor Sam Brownback, music by Bill Korinek and special memories from citizens in the community. “The commissioners have taken pride in this building over the years,” said Oswalt. “In the 19 years I’ve been here we’ve roofed it three times. It cost more to roof it this year then it did to build it.” Bad mortar around the . . . |
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“The Fall Health Festival will be a great way for people to come to one place to see all the wonderful opportunities they have for better health right here in Rice County” Mary Konen, festival coordinator
By LouAnn Cobb
Plans for the Fall Health Festival Nov. 3 is taking shape. This is the seventh year for the festival scheduled from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Celebration Centre in Lyons.
“We want to make this year a harvest of health and hope for our community,” said Mary Konen, festival coordinator. “The committee is excited about this year’s event and made a few changes.”
New to the festival this year will be informational/educational presentations designed to increase awareness about the many services provided by RCDH and other healthcare opportunities available to people right here in Rice County. About 40 people will provide information or a service to the people who attend.
“Visitors will actually be able to sit down and listen to presentations that include hospice and homecare services that is available at RCDH: healthy eating ideas, fun ways to increase . . .
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Updated 10/11/11
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By LouAnn Cobb
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| “Detecting more cancers earlier, saving more lives. It’s that simple,” is inscribed on the side of the bus, a reminder to Ellis of the reason she does what she does. “I really love these women,” Ellis said. “They keep coming back. They have known me since before I had my two boys, Derek and Dakota; while I was pregnant and now with both of them in college, studying to become radiologists.” It all began in the late 1980s, when Ellis, an x-ray intern at Central Kansas Medical Center about to graduate from a two-year program, was asked to fill in for an x-ray tech while she was out on maternity leave. After graduation her plan was to relocate to Kansas City to do radiology vascular work, the next step in x-ray. Ellis said the tech came back, things happened and she made a decision to stay in Great Bend and continue what she was doing. “When I first started we used a primitive machine,” Ellis said. The film was inside a vacuum pack. It had to be sent by mail in order to be read.” “When digital mammography replaced the old mobile film screening, everything changed,” Ellis said. “It was the next step in state of the art early detection and women were ready for it. Women no longer had to travel long distances to get a mammogram.” In Sept. 2010 URG made the decision to. . . |
Terri Ellis, a radiological tech from Great Bend helps approximately 10 to 14 women from Rice County monthly with digital mammogram screens on the mobile mammo bus, provided by URG of Salina. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
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The rain held off long enough for the 1 mile run/job/walk hosted by Communities in Schools of Rice County. Grace Whisler (left) finished first in the 1 mile. Coming in 2nd and 3rd were were 12 year old Dallas Lacky and 13 year old Bianca Lopez. The 2nd annual Fun Run/Jog/Walk was at Sterling Lake Saturday October 8th. The rain came midway through the 5K and many had to leave the race and take a ride back to the shelter house. Results of the intrepid finishers to that run will be in Friday’s paper. Proceeds of the race wtih support the YouthFriends and Early Childhood programs of Commuities in Schools of Rice County For more information contact Debbie Easterling at 620-257-7060 Committee chairperson or Marian Poe, Executive Director 620-204-0853 |
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Far left: ELdon Fundenberger and his wife, Pam, returned home recently after taking the new 2011 HD Ultra Classic all the way to Fayetteville, Ark.
By LouAnn Cobb
Eldon Fundenberger of Lyons took advantage of some recent nice weather to polish up the newest addition to the family, his 2011 Harley Davison Ultra Classic Motorcycle.
“The wife and I are on our way to Fayetteville, Ark., for a rally there,” Fundenberger said. “They’re expecting a large crowd.”
The new bike wasn’t exactly planned, Fundenberger said. On recent trip he joined his brother and headed further north into the Montana mountains. He started having trouble with his bike and he tried to repair it. When it burned through his saddle bag, Fundenberger decided it was time to trade it in and made a trip to Butte, Montana, for the purchase.
Fundenberger said he has never been to Fayetteville but is excited to check it out. It will be a different ride, but like the others one he will not forget.
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Junior Soeken, left, Iron Works, visits with George Stover, RCDH administrator and Susan Sankey, RCHF.
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Updated 10/7/11
One of the five waterwell pump buildings that supplies the city of Lyons. |
By Lucky Kidd While the City of Lyons remains under a water watch under it’s water conservation program, City Administrator John Sweet told the City Council Monday night that could easily change due to the operational status of the city’s five active water wells. Three of the five wells are currently out of service - two due to storm damage earlier this year and the other because of electrical issues. Repairs are in progress on a well damaged by lightning in June, while a well servicing firm is still trying to determine the source of severe vibrations in another well damaged in August. The other well, which was scheduled to have a work over in 2013, is experiencing electrical issues. Under the city’s water conservation plan, two wells being out of service is sufficient to trigger a water watch and voluntary conservation measures. If one of the two remaining wells were to go out . . . |
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| WHO-Rice County Courthouse WHAT- 100th Anniversary Celebration Reception WHEN- Oct. 12, 9 to 10:30 a.m. WHERE - Second floor, courthouse WHY - Celebrating 100 years. Including presentations by Maggie Carlson, Cornado Quivira Museum; Commissioner Bill Oswalt; music by Bill Korinek; Cornerstone recognition by a member of the Grand Master of Kansas Masons; and comments from Judge Mike Keeley. A look back in RCCH history, taken from excerpts from Rice County records and “Square Tales” a publication written in 1995 by . . . |
Above: Rice County Courthouse before the present structure was built. Below: Former Lyons resident, Millie Crist, was matron of the Ladies Lounge and reported the number of women and children who used it each month. |
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by Paul Jones
Somewhat of a rarity, a tree growing in a ditch of a well-travelled highway, may soon be a thing of the past in Rice County. This stately pine tree — some believe it to be a ponderosa pine — has stood in the north ditch of highways K14 and 96 three and a half miles west of Lyons for many decades, but now has succumbed to the pine needle wilt disease, and will probably be removed soon by the Kansas Department of Transportation, according to area supervisor Doug Leiker. The tree is more than 80 years old — one Lyons resident in his late 70s remembers it as a full grown tree when he was attending the Catholic school in Chase in his youth. Leiker said when he came to Lyons to assume his supervisory role for this area’s DOT, his boss told him that the tree was not to be touched. Although it is near the driving surface and nearly overhangs the edge of the road, evidently it has remained all those years without causing a traffic accident.
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The city of Lyons was notified at the end of last month that it had received a grant from the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation.
The award is in the amount of $100,000 and comes from Home Investment Parnerships Program funds. The money is to be used for the rehabilitation of owner occupied homes. Funding in the amount of $5,000 is also being provided to the city to administer the grant.
The submitted application provides that the city of Lyons will also committ 25% in eligible non-federal matching funds.
City Administrator, John Sweet, said the city asked for $400,000 and received the $100,000 grant for 2011. He attributed the number of applications submitted and reduction in state funding as the factors which resulted in the subsequent reduction in the fund amount.
Jeff Porter, city Community Development Coordinator, has the applications for the funds. Applicants must own their home and meet certain financial standards. For qualifying residents, there are no costs for the home inprovement. Questions can be directed to Porter at city hall, 257-2320.
More than 60 homes have been rehabilitated in the city of Lyons since 2004. These were for low to moderate income families. The investment value equals $1,642,452 in these housing programs. The money for these improvements have come largely from state and federal grant programs with participation from city of Lyons.
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Updated 10/4/11
Olivia Hunt, Park School, receives a bright yellow star with pink polka dots at her school’s “Under the Sea” carnival Saturday. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)
PRETTY AS A PICTURE Anna Droegemueller, 5, is happy with her painted rainbow and heart. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb) |
By LouAnn Cobb It was a “cool” afternoon for students and faculty at Park Elementary Saturday afternoon. From , From ring toss to face painitng to bouncy houses, the popular Folley Trolley and hidden treasures, it was non stop entertainment. Principal Nancy Barlow, dressed as a pirate enjoyed capturing prisoners and taking them to the Brig. They only way out was to pay. “It went very well,” said Dee Hunt, PTO member. “We were busy the entire time we were open. “The kids loved the train and boundy houses. Itsy Bitsy kids enjoyed the treasure hunt. Hunt said the decorated baskets did extremely well. “We’ll definitely do this again,” Hunt said,” probably change the theme for next year and then rotate every other year. Hunt said the hard work paid off. It was well worth the effort and all the volunteer hours spent getting everything together. |
“After paying our expenses, we now have an operating budget for PTO,” Hunt said. “That’s exciting.”
Park School PTO will hold its first meeting at 7 p.m. Oct. 13 in the school library with election of officers. If more room is required they will move to a larger room. Parents, guardians and grandparents are encouraged to attend and support Park School students.
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With the most recent outbreak of a food borne pathogen, a special food safety program will be presented to help limit consumers exposure to food borne illnesses. The date of this program is Wednesday, Oct. 12 at the Rice County Extension Building at Noon and again at 5:30 p.m. To jump start your knowledge about food safety, audience members will watch short video clips with lively discussion to follow. Handouts will be available. To ensure that enough materials are prepared, please call the Extension Office by Oct. 10 at 620-257-5131 to reserve your copy. There is no cost to attend.
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Check out the notes from “Cowboy” Jim Gray’s (above) Drover blog and more Cattle drive photos inside on page 4. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)
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Meredith Peterson-Davis reunites with former RCDH physician, Dr. Richard Siemens and wife Frances, at a retirement reception held in her honor. (Photo by LouAnn Cobb)
