February 23, 2017 by Hugoton Hermes

The

Hugoton

HermesState Bound

Thursday, February 23, 2017 Volume Volume 130, 130, Number Number 88

24 24 pages, pages, 69 69 cents cents plus plus tax tax per per copy copy

Pedro Ordonez will represent HHS at 3A-2A-1A State Wrestling The Eagles competed in WaKeeney Friday and Saturday for Regionals. The Eagles took six wrestlers to compete for a chance to make an appearance this coming weekend at 3A-2A1A State Wrestling in Hays. Out of the six, only one made it out of some fierce competition. Pedro Ordonez qualified for State at the 138 pound weight class. In his first day, Ordonez had very little to slow his momentum for qualification as he dispatched his side of the bracket, setting up a firstranked versus secondranked matchup with David Hileman from Smith Center. Ordonez went into the match undefeated whereas Hileman had suf-

fered one loss. Ordonez battled through a split lip from the day before, for which the finals were stopped twice, to take an early lead. Ordonez was able to build on his lead and held on to earn a 102 win and a trip to State. Ordonez was awarded “Most Outstanding Wrestler” of the tournament. Ordonez will be competing at his third consecutive State wrestling tournament this weekend in Hays. Last year he finished third. The year before, he earned fourth in 4A. Other wrestlers competing at Regionals were Ethan Shoptese, Zayden Littell, Dante Duran, Adan Vera, and Brian Flores. Continued to page 8

Senior Pedro Ordonez will make his third consecutive appearance at State wrestling this weekend in Hays.

School Board is entertained by figures from the past The USD 210 Board of Eduction met Monday night for a regular monthly meeting. The board approved Out of State Field Trips. The Hugoton Intermediate School fifth graders in English language arts classes participated in a social studies project. The students drew for influential persons from American history. The students had to research their chosen person, write a research paper, design a poster, write a speech and

dress up in the clothes their character would have worn. Four students presented their work to the board. Teachers Avery Miller and Stacey Dillinger introduced the students who brought their exhibits to the meeting. The students were Nicole Bustillos as Martha Washington; Alyssa Rodriguez as Pocahontas; Griffin Heger as Dwight Eisenhower; and Josh Rodriguez as Marcus Luttrell. Hugoton Intermediate School’s Mentoring Pro-

gram was presented by Avery Miller. She talked about the new mentoring program called Eagle Pals. The program partners atrisk intermediate school students with high school High school students. students filled out applications and were interviewed. Each one will team up with an intermediate student. The program will start after spring break and will entail 30 minute meetings once a week. Thirty high school stuContinued to page 5

EcoDevo finalizes agreement The Stevens County Economic Development met Tuesday, February 14, 2017 at the Senior Center Craft Room. Attending the meeting were board members Doug Martin, Ray Hoggatt, Jan Leonard, Judy Parsons, Adrian Howie, Josh

Morris, Jack Rowden and Chairman Curtis Crawford. Also present were secretary Alisha Owens, newly appointed board member Neal Gillespie and Hugoton Hermes reporter Ruthie Winget. Chairman Crawford presided.

Hugoton Airport Manager Gary Porter accepts the tokens of appreciation presented by Commissioner Joe D. Thompson. Gary is retiring after his years of service at the airport since 2010. Congratulations Gary, enjoy your retirement.

The board read and approved the minutes from last month. Treasurer Jack Rowden reported the balance of the Special Projects account to be $53,384.22 and the checking account balance to be $756.09. The board approved the motion to transfer $1,500 from the Special Projects account to the checking account to pay bills. Neal Gillespie was welcomed by the board as the new board member. He volunteered to serve on the ethanol, dairy and housing sub committees. Chairman Crawford brought up the Agreement between the board and secretary Alisha Owens. After some discussion, The motion was passed to send the Agreement to the county attorney for approval. Alisha is planning to attend the Institute of Organization Management for the Chamber June 4-8 in Madison, Wi. It is highly Continued to page 3

Judith Mendoza, manager at Bultman, Inc. congratulates 2017 Sweetheart Sweepstakes couple Anita and Steve Munson after their selection Wednesday, February 15. Hugoton Area

Chamber of Commerce director Alisha Owens also hands the lucky couple their $50 Chamber Bucks gift certificate. Congratulations Steve and Anita, enjoy your winnings and each other!

Sweetheart Sweepstakes winners announced

Valentine's Day has come and gone, but the sweetness continues for these lucky Sweethearts! Steve and Anita Munson were named the 2016 Sweetheart Sweepstakes winners after winning the $20 gift certificate at Bultman, Inc. They also won a $50 Chamber gift certificate to use nearly anywhere in town! Other sweetheart winners abounded, including a very lucky couple, Pete and Amber Perez, who won $25 cash at First National Bank and a large pizza at Pizza Hut! Janet's Bridal and Boutique named Stuart and Susie Scott their winner of a $25 gift certificate, while Jim and Lynne Fink will get an early start on their spring garden with a $25 gift certificate from Yardmaster. Johnny and Jennifer Talbert won their choice of jewelry at the

Hospital Auxiliary's Little Gift Shop in the Corner. Buffie's winners were Craig and Liz Hathaway, taking home a bottle of CND Almond Moisture Therapy Lotion. Greg and Anita Gill were the lucky winners at The Hugoton Hermes, getting a free year's subscription to the paper. Steve and Cynda Perry will definitely enjoy their $25 gift certificate at Creative Specialties. Hugoton Drug announced their winners of a $25 gift certificate were Frankie and Donna Rotello. Citizens State Bank awarded 20 Gas Capital Dollars to Francisco and Alejandra Manriquez, while the Jet gave two free dinners and drinks to Lonnie and Cleta Norris. David and Olivia Cruz can enjoy two delicious #3 combo meals and drinks at Nieto's. Jayla Stump and Nick Gold were

named the winners at Flatlanders Farm and Home, where they will win a $25 gift certificate. Jacob and Anna Bartsch were the lucky names drawn at Hometown Fabrics N More, and they'll receive a $25 gift certificate to spend. Barry and Leisa Hittle will definitely find a good use for the $25 gift certificate they won at Bultman Tire, and Don Fisher will get to enjoy a delicious meal "on the house" after winning a $25 gift certificate at Dominoes Bar and Grill. El Abanero announced their $20 gift certificate winners as Mike and Sandra Ruiz. Congratulations to all the lucky couples - both for their great prizes, and for the fantastic people they get to share the prizes with!

The Hugoton Hermes

February 23, 2017

Page 2

Obituaries

Margaret Cox Moscow resident Margaret Lee Cox, age 95, passed from this life Friday, February 17, 2017 at her daughter’s home in Moscow. She was born June 25, 1921 in Bloom, Co., the daughter of Walter Spaulding and the former Cora Carter. Margaret grew up in Colorado Springs, Co. and moved to western Kansas after she married Ray A. Cox in 1936. She married Wesley W. Cox in 1948; he preceded her in death in 1982. Mrs. Cox worked as a restaurant cook and was a contract mail carrier, retiring in 1980. She enjoyed embroidering, reading, going to garage sales and collecting salt and pepper shakers. Margaret is survived by three sons, Ray Cox, Jr. of Hugoton, Jimmy Cox of Conway Springs and Willard Thomas Cox of Garden City; her two daughters, Patsy R. Mangels of Hugoton and Susan J. Munson of Moscow; sister Edith June Green of Loveland, Co.; her 16 grandchildren; 44 greatgrandchildren; and 18 greatgreat-grandchildren. Mrs. Cox is preceded in

Frank Zarello

death by her parents; husband Wesley; six siblings; and son Richard Cox. Graveside services were attended Tuesday afternoon, February 21 at the Rolla Cemetery with Pastors Larry and Sean Bradford Schraeder officiating. Garnand Funeral Home in Hugoton was in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be given to Mosaic in Garden City in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 423 S Main, Hugoton, Ks 67951.

ple churches in Oklahoma and Illinois. He was an active member of The Crossing Church in Pike County, Il. Survivors include his wife Jane M. Zarello of Pleasant Hill; son Paul Zarello and wife Kelly of Bushnell, Il,; daughter Miranda Spence and husband Benjamin of Hong Kong; and his four granddaughters, Miah Ann and Alyssa Jane Zarello and Emily Mae and Ashley Madison Spence. Frank was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Vincent and his twin brother Fred.

Deborah Schmitzer

William “Bill” Larrabee Former Hugoton resident William Lee "Bill" Larrabee, 84 of Liberal, passed away Thursday, February 16, 2017 at Liberal. He was born February 15, 1933 to Robert Larrabee and the former Rosemary Kinney at Hugoton. November 24, 1955 he married Marilyn Adams at Meade. She preceded him in death February 3, 2001. He is also preceded in death by his parents; brother Joe Larrabee; granddaughter Kandra Kalee Larrabee; and great grandson Lincoln Ty Larrabee. During the summer of 2003 Bill married Annette Lemert. She survives. Bill was a graduate of Liberal High School and the University of Kansas. He was the owner/operator of the family owned Star Lumber Company until his retirement. He also served in the Army during the Korean War, stationed in Fairbanks, Ak. In 1957 Bill moved back to Hugoton, and in 1983 he moved to Liberal. He was a member of Hugoton Masonic Lodge #406, the SW Shrine Club and received his 50 member year pin in 2016, the Liberal Elks Lodge (50 year member), Scottish Rites, KU Alumni Association, Liberal Trap Club, Arkalon Park Board, SW Kansas Oil and Gas

The death of Frank L. Zarello, Jr., 68, of Pleasant Hill, Il. is being mourned. Mr. Zarello passed from this life Monday morning, February 6, 2017 at his home. Frank was born December 22, 1948 in Philadelphia, Pa., a son of Frank L. and Margaret Godorecci Zarello, Sr. He married Jane M. Peterson July 19, 1974 at the Church of the Wildwood in Cascade, Co. Jane survives. Frank was employed as a production camera operator and plate maker at the Gazette Telegraph newspaper and as a film printer at Alexander Film Services, both in Colorado Springs, Co. He later worked as a fieldman and repairman for Panhandle Eastern Pipeline Company in Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma and Illinois. More recently, he was employed by the Village of Pleasant Hill for 22 years before retiring. Mr. Zarello loved people and was an avid outdoorsman. He loved playing music for the Lord, playing in several praise bands in Kansas and at multi-

Royalty Owners Association, Liberal Masonic Lodge and was also a long time member of the St. Andrews Episcopal Church. William is also survived by his two sons, Steven Lee Larrabee and wife Vickie and Kevin Robert Larrabee, all of Meade; his sister Linda Swafford and husband Frank of Georgetown, Tx.; five grandchildren, Austin Lee Larrabee, Blake William Larrabee, Carcy Danae Larrabee, Kyre Ellen Larrabee and Richard Kash Larrabee; and two great grandchildren, Taylor Julianne Larrabee and Tyson Lee Larrabee. Memorial services were attended Wednesday afternoon, February 22 at the First Presbyterian Church in Liberal with Rev. Carolyn Ballinger Pd. D. officiating. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Shriners Hospital for Children in care of Miller Mortuary.

The death of Deborah J. Schmitzer has been learned. Mrs. Schmitzer, 62, passed away Thursday, February 16, 2017 at Southwest Medical Center in Liberal. She was born October 4, 1954 in Oklahoma City, Ok., to William Davidson and the former Mary Grisham. September 30, 1991 she married Randy Schmitzer in Grand Junction, Co. He survives. Deborah graduated from Northwest Classen High School in Oklahoma City in 1972. She then graduated from the Kenneth College of Hair Design in Liberal in 1981, and from Clarksburg Beauty Academy in Clarksburg, W.V. in 1982. She worked for Regis Hairstyle Salon for 13 years, and then as a National Certified Pharmacy Technician at Dillion Pharmacy. Mrs. Schmitzer was a member of Believer’s Ministry Church, Miss America Pageant Board, and president of Little Miss West Virginia Scholarship Pageant. Debbie loved reading and studying the Bible, praying for others, OU and Roll Tide Alabama football, Nascar, all of her grandchildren, hopping on a John Deere in the summer and mowing their acres, watching Nate’s football games and going to Dollywood and riding the roller coaster with Anna-Kate. Survivors include her husband Randy; two sons, Julian Holt and his fiancée Shannon of Kingsport, Tn. and

Insight

Thomas Schmitzer and wife Ashley of Kansas City; two daughters, Angela Whitley and husband Brian of Kingsport and Heather McMillin and husband Justin of Springfield, Mo.; her brother Jim Davidson and wife Patricia of Fritch, Tx.; 11 grandchildren, Aspen, Ashland, Cooper and Silas Holt, Nathaniel and Anna-Kate Whitley, Cole Parker and Abigail McMillin, and Danny, Claire and Sara Schmitzer. Deborah was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, John and Joe Davidson; and sister-in-law Margaret Davidson. Funeral services were attended Tuesday morning, February 21 at Believer’s Ministry Church with Pastor Dalkey Davis presiding. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or American Parkinson’s Disease Association in care of Brenneman Funeral Home, 1212 West Second, Liberal, Ks, 67901.

by John Schlageck, Senior Editor/Writer, Kansas Farm Bureau

America’s most admired Nobody likes us. Everyone’s out to get us. We can’t buy a break. Don’t believe it. It isn’t so. Never has been and hopefully never will be. Farmers and ranchers still rank at the top of America’s most admired professions. This A-list is comprised of those who serve others, including firefighters, doctors, nurses, farmers and ranchers (who feed the world), police, teachers and engineers who build things. And when the public thinks of agriculture – two words come to mind. If you guessed “hard working” you’re right. That’s the ranking in a recent article in Forbes. Across this country consumers believe farmers are important. When people take the time to think about their importance, most agree farmers feed everyone. They’ll tell you there isn’t anybody who doesn’t need farmers. Other words used by consumers to describe farmers included necessary, good for society, honest, take care of the land, independent and good family values.

Americans also believe farmers are highly believable when speaking on farm-related issues. When asked if they would believe a farmer talking about the challenges of farming, nearly 90 percent said they would. Farm wives were deemed even more believable than farmers. Depending on the topic, university researchers or scientists could be just as believable as farmers while environmentalists and government officials rated less favorably. Most consumers will tell you they believe farmers and ranchers choose their occupation based on the satisfaction it gives them, not the money they make. They also believe when faced with a decision between economics and doing the right thing, most farmers and ranchers would do what is right. Today’s American consumer also believes farmers have a high level of professional training and competency in agriculture. They also will tell you farmers care about food quality and safety. Nearly 80 percent of the public thought farmers and ranchers do an excellent job of taking care of their farm animals.

Believe it or not, depending on where you look or find information, two of every three people agree the use of land for agriculture is good for the environment. The public believes farmers take care of the land. Nearly half believe farmers and ranchers do an excellent or good job of taking care of the nation’s water. Don’t listen to what the naysayers say. The public’s image of farmers and ranchers remains strong. Overall, the public appreciates the jobs farmers are doing and they like hearing from them. That means farmers should take every opportunity to speak up about their profession. Stand up for agriculture. Say what’s on your mind and speak from the heart. American farmers and ranchers can help shape the message and mold the public image of their profession in their own likenesses, rather than having it molded for them by dictionary synonyms or advertising’s stereotypical overalls and pitchforks.

David Cutter Friends and family gathered Monday to remember and honor David William Cutter. Mr. Cutter, 71 passed from this life Monday, February 13, 2017 at his home in Garden City. He was born July 16, 1945 in Liberal, the son of Ralph Cutter and the former Elizabeth Brady. Dave grew up in Stevens County where he enjoyed farming with his father. He graduated from Hugoton High School in 1963 and attended one year at SouthCollege before western transferring to Kansas State University. He graduated from Kansas State with a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics in 1968. Mr. Cutter served in the United States Army Security Agency from 1968 to 1971 and was stationed in Massachusetts, Korea and Germany. Dave worked for 35 years in the banking industry while living in Hugoton, Norton, Lyons, Dodge City and Garden City. He retired from Golden Plains Credit Union in 2007. Mr. Cutter was a member of Bible Christian Church of Garden City; the First Christian Church of Hugoton, where he served as a Deacon; the Kansas State University Alumni Association; the Finney County Catbackers; and the Hugoton Bridge Club. Dave enjoyed spending time with his family; especially his grandchildren, and he loved to attend all of their activities. July 23, 1967, Dave and Janice Horst were united in marriage in Carmi, Il. She survives. Other survivors include his two daughters, Jennifer Beesley and husband Walt and Debra Moser

and husband Jarrod, all of Hugoton; sister Florence Metcalf and husband Ted of Liberal; and five grandchildren, Jeffrey Cutter, Britta Beesley, Jenna Beesley, Ella Beesley and Kennedy Benjamin. Dave is preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services were attended Monday morning, February 20 at Bible Christian Church in Garden City with Bob Bates officiating. A graveside service followed Monday afternoon at the Hugoton Cemetery. The Kansas Army National Guard Honor Guard and the American Legion, District #8 Honor Guard conducted military graveside rites. Arrangements were by Garnand Funeral Home of Garden City. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Bible Christian Church of Garden City, the First Christian Church Youth of Hugoton, Return Hope International, returnhope.com, or the Donor’s Choice; all in care of Garnand Funeral Home of Garden City. Condolences may be given at garnandfuneralhomes. com.

Essie “Miss Essie” Witherspoon Word has been received of the death of Essie V. “Miss Essie” Witherspoon. Mrs. Witherspoon, age 81, passed away Monday, February 13, 2017 at Southwest Medical Center in Liberal. She was born May 1, 1935 at Pickens, Ar., the daughter of George Baker and the former Mary Lee Mingo. August 6, 1959, Essie married James Witherspoon at Liberal. He survives. Essie had been a resident of Liberal for more than 45 years. She worked at Southwest Medical Center in housekeeping and at King’s BBQ as a cook. Mrs. Witherspoon was a member of New Life Non denominational Church as a Church Mother. Survivors include her four sons, Benard Witherspoon and wife Frankie of Arlington, Tx., James Witherspoon, Jr. of Arlington, Bobby Joe Witherspoon of Liberal and Ollie Reddick of Dumas, Ar.; three daughters, Dixie Curry and husband Kenneth of Arlington, Mary Washington and husband Ulysses of Liberal and LaTanya Witherspoon of Liberal; her four brothers, Herman Lee Baker and Calvin Lee Baker both of Liberal, Albert Earl Noble of Topeka and Herbert Mingo of Dallas, Tx.; 15 grandchildren, Lamar Witherspoon, LaTasha Witherspoon, Rosalind Witherspoon, Kendra Witherspoon, Latrice Witherspoon, LaTisha Curry, Kenneth Curry, Jr., Reginald Curry, Demetrious Werner and James, Domnique Washington, B.J. Washington and Justice,

Mercedes Adams-Witherspoon, Anthony Smith, Timiko Ponder and Angelo, and Devasha Rascon; and her 14 great grandchildren, Isaiah Witherspoon, Nashaya Witherspoon, Aja Johnson, Shimar Smith, Jr., Sanaya Wilson, Xaiver Smith, Dexter Smith, Jr., Cameron Smith, Jamarion Smith, Riley Hodges, Jamesya Werner, Jakyree Washington, Janiece Washington and J’yanna Washington. Miss Essie was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Gloria J. Brown; son George E. Witherspoon; and her three brothers, Bill Baker, George Baker and James Baker, Sr. Funeral services were attended Saturday afternoon, February 18 at Heaven Open Gates Ministry with Pastor Walter Witherspoon II, presiding. Burial followed in the Liberal Cemetery under the direction of Brenneman Funeral Home of Liberal. Memorial contributions may be sent to New Life Nondenominational Church in care of the Brenneman Funeral Home, 1212 West Second, Liberal, Ks. 67901.

The Hugoton Hermes

What’s Happenin’ NOW - REMINDER: Dog taxes are due at the Hugoton City Office, 631 S. Main, January 1 through February 28 without penalty. - Applications for Low Income Energy Assistance Program will be accepted by the Kansas Department for Children and Families. Request a form by calling 1-800-4320043 or visit www.lieap.dcf.ks.gov. February 1-28 - Stevens County Library’s annual Local Artists’ Exhibition. To enter your original artwork, please contact Eunice at 620-544-2301 or stop by the SCL at 500 S. Monroe in Hugoton. February 20-March 10 - Registrations for Walk Kansas will be accepted at the Stevens County Extension Office at 114 E. Fifth Street in Hugoton. You can also call 620-544-4359 for more information. February 23 - Sign up to play with the Hugoton Blues softball team from 6:00 to 6:45 p.m. at the Hugoton Elementary Gym. Teams include 10-under, 12under, 14-under and 18under. February 25 - Stevens County Conservation District will host their

sixty-seventh annual awards banquet at Memorial Hall, starting at 6:30 p.m. Featured speaker will be Judge Tommy B Webb. - Dermot Community Soup Supper at 7:00 p.m. at the Dermot School. Hosts will be Buzz and Diane Lambrecht. Call 785-656-0421 or 620593-4436 for more information. February 26 - First Christian Church will host services at Pioneer Manor in the chapel at 3:00 p.m. Coffee Shop Social Time will follow at 3:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to come. - Public closing reception for the Western Kansas Scholastic Art Association exhibit at Baker Arts Center at 624 N. Pershing in Liberal, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. February 27 - Legislative Update with Senator John Doll and Representative Stephen Alford at the Stevens County Library’s meeting room, starting at 6:30 p.m. The event is co-sponsored by EcoDevo, the Stevens County Farm Bureau Association and the Chamber’s gold members. - DivorceCare, a special help seminar and support group for people experiencing divorce and separation will meets at My Father’s House, 207 E.

Sixth in Hugoton each Monday at 7:00 p.m. The church is located at 207 East Sixth. For more information call 620544-2849. February 28 - Stitches in Time Quilt Guild will host an Open House starting at 9:00 a.m. in the Pioneer Electric basment meeting room at 1850 W. Oklahoma in Ulysses. Please RSVP by February 24 to Barb at 620-356-4983 or 620-3534193. February 28-March 1 - - Exactrix Global Systems will host two meetings at Forewinds Golf Course, beginning at 9:00 a.m. both days. Mustang High Speed Banding demonstration will take place after lunch. Call 800-9299289 for more information. March 1 - Deadline to sign up for “Dining with Diabetes” at the Stevens County Extension Office. Classes will run weekly March 30-April 20. Call 620544-4359 to find out more. March 4 - Stevens County Fitness Center will host an “Introduction to Weightlifting” class from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. every Saturday in March for anyone who is interested. The public is encouraged to participate. Call 620-544-7852 to enroll today!

board’s attention the 2017 Kansas Rural Opportunities Conference scheduled for April 15-16 in Junction City. She was instructed to bring them more information about the conference for the next meeting. She stated they are planning a Legislative Update Monday, February 27 at the

Stevens County Library at 6:30 p.m. Senator John Doll and Representative Steven Alford will attend the Update. Everyone is invited to attend. The sub committees gave their reports. Not many changes have been reported at this time. The meeting adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 14, 2017.

EcoDevo Continued from page 1 recommended for Chamber directors and Economic Development. She asked if EcoDevo would like to split the expenses. Black Hills has already given a 60% scholarship for this training to Alisha. The board passed the motion to pay half of these expenses. Alisha brought to the

HUGOTON POLICE REPORT 405 E. Fourth • Hugoton Business Hours, Call 544-4959 After Hours, Call 544-2020 Monday, February 13, 2017 • Non Injury Accident, 700 Block of South Main, Took Report, Officer Crane • Non Injury Accident, 600 Block of East Eleventh, Took Report, Officer Lamatsch Tuesday, February 14, 2017 • Harassment, 1000 Block of South Jackson, Spoke to the RP, Officer Lamatsch Wednesday, February 15, 2017 • Civil Standby, 700 Block of South Monroe, Public Serivce, Officer Lamatsch Thursday, February 16, 2017 • Funeral Escort, 1000 Block of South Jefferson, Public Service, Officer Hagman • Dog at Large, 900 Block of South Jackson, Unable to Locate, Officer Hagman • Dogs at Large, 500 Block of French, Officer Hagman

• Medical Assist, 100 Block of North Jackson, Public Service, Officer Hagman Friday, February 17, 2017 • Dog at Large, 700 Block of South Washington, Dog Impounded, Officer Crane • Criminal Damage to Property, 1000 Block of South Main, Subject Arrested, Officer Lamatsch Saturday, February 18, 2017 • Vehicle Unlock, 500 Block of South Jackson, Citizen Assist, Officer Crane Sunday, February 19, 2017 • Medical Assist, 100 Block of South Van Buren, Public Service, Officer Crane • Dog at Large, 1500 Block of South Jefferson, Returned to Owner, Officer Crane • Medical Assist, 900 Block of South Polk, Public Service, Officer Lamatsch

It’s a JUNGLE out there, so don’t MONKEY around.

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When you advertise your business with us, you’ll get the best coverage for the area. Keep your name in sight of the customers. Advertise in the Call!

544-4321

Legislative Update With Senator John Doll and Representative Stephen Alford

Monday, February 27, at 6:30 p.m. at the Stevens County Library Meeting Room

Co-Sponsored by Stevens County Stevens County Economic Farm Bureau Development Board Association and the Hugoton Area Chamber of Commerce and their Gold Members Ghumm's Auto Center; Jordan Air, Inc.; MasCow Dairy; Pioneer Communication; Pioneer Electric; Stevens County Healthcare

Page 3

Keep HOPE alive for low income families Dear Editor, Kansas’ new approach to welfare programs, by encouraging work, has broken the cycle of poverty for thousands of Kansans. Unfortunately, these successful efforts to provide hope and opportunity to those struggling to make ends meet are under attack in the Kansas Legislature. Some critics prefer to keep our neighbors and friends trapped in poverty and dependent on the government. We, on the other hand, will not support the poverty-industrial complex that puts trifling sums of government money in the hands of people who have fallen on hard times. We believe Kansans are better than that. The Kansas HOPE (Hope, Opportunity and Prosperity for Everyone) Act incentivizes work and prevents fraud. Since 2012, 13,000 fewer Kansas kids are living in poverty. From 2007 to 2016, there has been a 227 percent increase in the work participation rate for Kansans on welfare. Mean-

Theresa Freed while, more than 40,000 new employments among welfare recipients were reported from January 2011 through 2016. Within a year of work requirements being implemented, the wages of those receiving food assistance more than doubled, increasing by 127 percent on average. Kansans who previously had to rely on government assistance are now finding a way out of poverty altogether. The same week the Legislature voted to raise income taxes for hard-working Kansas families, they are also debating how much to weaken work requirements for welfare recipients. The proposed SOAR Act expects taxpayers to foot the bill for able-bodied adults without dependent children, between 18 and 49, to receive free food assistance with no obligation to work, attend school or receive work training. The proposal eliminates accountability measures.

This is an approach that pushes lifetime reliance on government aid instead of promoting upward economic mobility, and it’s unacceptable. The Kansas Department for Children and Families is focused on addressing the underlying causes of poverty. DCF offers a wide range of support services, job training, funds for transportation and work equipment, to support our clients on a path to self-reliance and greater economic opportunity. This is the answer to poverty. Keeping low-income families locked in a life of poverty and government dependence is not an option. We must keep HOPE alive and encourage lawmakers to support prosperity over poverty. Theresa Freed Communications Director Kansas Department for Children and Families Office: 785-296-0537 Cell: 785-217-3473

WANTED: MILITARY ADDRESSES Stevens County Fire Department and Ambulance Report Stevens County Emergency Services run activity February 13 through February 19. Fire Department Thursday, February 16, 6:59 a.m. – sent to 160 Road 18 for an ambualance assist. Saturday, February 18, 10:00 a.m. – dispatched to 1401 Road P for an ambulance assist. Ambulance Activity Four medical runs and four transfers.

The residents of Pioneer want to send Boxed Gift items to active Military Service People from Stevens County to let them know that people back home are thinking about them. If you have an address please bring it to Pioneer Manor or call 620-5442023 during regular business hours.

E7 BOOKKEEPING & PAYROLL SERVICES

Kansas Weekly Gas Prices Hugoton Gas Prices As of Tuesday, February 21 Brown Dupree - $2.27 Eagles Landing - $2.16 Kangaroo Express -$2.13 Thrifty King - $2.19 Toot N Totum - $2.19 Average retail gasoline prices in Kansas have risen 0.8 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.16 per gallon Sunday, according to GasBuddy's daily survey of 1,329 gas outlets in Kansas. This compares with the national average that has fallen 0.3 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.27 per gallon, according to gasoline price Web site GasBuddy.com. Including the change in gas prices in Kansas during the past week, prices Sunday were 67.7 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 3.3 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 3.8 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 56.0 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago. According to GasBuddy historical data, gasoline prices February 20 in Kansas have ranged widely over the last five years: $1.48 per gallon in 2016, $2.18 per gallon in 2015, $3.24 per gallon in 2014, $3.69 per gallon in 2013 and $3.42 per gallon in 2012. “Refinery liquidation of cheaper winter grade fuel keeps pump prices in similar territory for the week ahead," said Dan McTeague, GasBuddy senior petroleum analyst. “The ongoing saga of global oil production limitations becomes less important

Thursday, February 23, 2017

SERVICES

as refineries begin the early stages of maintenance and turnarounds to accommodate summer gasoline blends." For LIVE fuel price averages, visit http://FuelIn sights.GasBuddy.com.

Payroll Tax • Business Registrations Sales Tax • Liquor Tax • Tax Deposits W2’s/1099s • A/P, A/R

WILLA EDDIE • (620)952-0018 Mobile (620)424-4500 Fax • EZpayroll@gmail.com

The Hugoton Hermes 130 Year Anniversary 10 Year Anniversary for Faith Publishing

LLC - May 15, 2017

The benefits of local newspapers ocal newspapers play vital roles in communities across the globe. The Information Age has changed the way many people get their news, but local newspapers continue to serve as a valuable resource for readers interested in learning more about and becoming more involved in their communities.

While local publishers continue to adapt to the changes brought about by technology, the following are a handful of benefits unique to local newspapers. Local newspapers keep readers up-to-date on their own communities. Globalization may be here to stay, but that does not mean local communities are no longer home to newsworthy events. National and

providing affordable and effective advertising space to local business owners looking to connect with their communities. Local newspapers can strengthen communities. Local newspapers are great resources for residents who want to become more active in their communities and learn more about community events. Local newspapers often showcase community Local newspapers benefit local events like carnivals, local ss busine businesses. Small theater and projects like park owners often connect with cleanups, and these are great local via ers community memb ways for readers to become newspapers. A strong, locallymore active in their ss busine based small communities and build community can benefit stronger communities as a ways, myriad in ies econom result. creating jobs in the community and contributing Local newspapers can benefit to tax dollars that can be used children. National newspapers strengthen schools and local may have little ageinfrastructure. And local appropriate content to offer newspapers do their part by

international newspapers and 24-hour cable news channels can keep men and women upto-date on national and world news, but in many instances local newspapers are the only means people have to learn about what’s going on in their own communities. Local politics impact residents’ lives every day, and local newspapers cover local politics extensively.

young children. But local newspapers tend to include more soft news items than national periodicals, and such stories typically are appropriate for young readers. And according to Newspapers in Education, students who participated in an NIE group in Florida performed significantly better in spelling and vocabulary than nonreaders. Additional studies have indicated that students who use newspapers in the classroom perform better on standardized reading tests than those who do not use newspapers in class. Many local newspapers have played vital roles in their communities for decades, providing a go-to resource for local readers and business owners.

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et | 522 S. Main Stre-43 21 | 44 Hugoton | 620-5 mes.co m er nh to www.hugo

The Hugoton Hermes

Thursday, February 23, 2017

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Gooch - Rich Besides being first place winner, Judy Hickert also clinched the second place honors with her photo of a San Francisco Trolley Car at the meeting of the Hugoton Camera Club.

Susan Willis is the third place winner at the Hugoton Camera Club with her photo of a Ottawa Kansas home.

Judy Hickert is the first place winner at the Hugoton Camera Club. She entered her photo of a California Lighthouse.

did you know? Just like certain exercises, home improvement projects may involve heavy lifting, bending, moving, and stretching. After spending much of the winter indoors and largely sedentary, some homeowners may be tempted to jump into projects with gusto when the warm weather returns. But that can be a recipe for injury that can sideline DIYers for a while. Instead, homeowners can start slowly and then gradually work longer hours, just as they might do when returning to exercise after some time off. Homeowners can see how

Exercise Every Day “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

Citizens State Bank 601 S. Main - Hugoton

PAUL'S-ROBSON FUNERAL HOME David & Brandy Robson

314 S. Van Buren 544-4122

Pyramid Agency, Inc. 521 S. Main - Hugoton

The Hugoton Hermes Faith Publishing LLC 522 S. Main 620-544-4321

—1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NIV

he advice to exercise every day is related to protecting our physical health, but exercise is so important for our overall well-being that we should also sing its praises for its mental and emotional benefits. By now, we’ve probably all heard the witty remark that “sitting is the new smoking.” Most of us who don’t want to be pariahs have given up smoking, but some of us still do a lot of sitting. On the other hand, “standing desks” and even treadmill desks are becoming common in many workplaces. Many workplaces also have exercise rooms or allow workers to take exercise breaks during the day. Our bodies are designed to move, and if we don’t do a fair amount of that every day, we’re going to get weak and flabby. Exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous to be good; most of us are not destined to be Olympians. But considering that the human body is designed to walk efficiently, it shouldn’t surprise us that walking is great exercise. The human body is also well-designed for swimming, throwing things, and locomotion in general. So get out of that chair and move your body. It’s important to find something that you enjoy enough for it to become a habit, and then you will be well on your way to living the healthy life that God desires for you.

Christopher Simon

FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH AGAPE CHURCH OF HUGOTON 409 East Ninth, Hugoton Sunday – 10:30 a.m.

Terry Miller - 453-2212 428-1135 ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Main and Second Street 544-2773 Ben Coats, Pastor Sunday School - 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship - 10:45 a.m. Life Groups Sunday Nights - 6:00 p.m. Inside Out Kids Wed. - 6:30 p.m. Student Ministry @ The Turnaround Wed. 7:00 p.m. HugotonAssembly.com

BETHEL FRIENDS CHURCH 11th & Jefferson - 544-8517 Roy Bogan, Pastor Sunday School - 9:30 a.m. Morning Service - 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Evening Ministries - 6:30 p.m. (Children, Youth, & Adult)

CHURCH OF CHRIST 1045 S. Van Buren Church: 544-2825 Home: 453-0965 Lee Rottman 1041 S. Van Buren Wednesday - 7:00 p.m. Sunday School - 10:00 a.m. Morning Worship - 11:00 a.m. Evening Service - 6:00 p.m.

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER DAY SAINTS 520 E. First 544-2125 Sacrament - 9:00 a.m. Sunday School - 10:00 a.m. Priesthood - 11:00 a.m.

CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 500 S. Van Buren 544-2493 Pastor Dave Piper Sunday School - 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship - 10:45 a.m. Evening Services - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study - 7:00 p.m.

FAITH CHAPEL CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST Tenth and Jefferson Sunday School - 10:00 a.m. Morning Worship - 11:00 a.m. Bible Band (Tuesday) - 6:00 p.m. Home and Forn. Miss. (Friday) - 6:00 p.m. Youth - 6:00 p.m. Bible Study - 7:00 p.m.

FAITH LUTHERAN Tenth and Adams 544-2092 Kurt Hering, Pastor Morning Worship - 9:00 a.m.

600 S. Van Buren - 544-2715 Pastor Heath Kelley Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. Fellowship - 10:15 - 10:30 a.m. Worship Hour - 10:30 - 12:00 Children's Church, 10:30 a.m. Jr. High Youth Group, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Sr. High Youth Group, 7:45-9:00 p.m. Information on small groups call 544-2715

FIRST CHURCH OF GOD 801 W. City Limits 544-2652 Israel Franco, Pastor Sunday School - 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Evening Service - 6:30 p.m. Call 544-2652 for Church Bus

HUGOTON BAPTIST CHURCH Eighth and Main 544-2210 Pastor Gary Stafford Parsonage - 544-2295 Sunday School - 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study - 6:30 p.m.

LONE STAR FRIENDS CHURCH 14 Miles East of Hugoton on Highway 51 Church 624-3784 Home 624-3104 Pastor Gary Damron Sunday School - 9:45 a.m. Blended Worship Celebration - 10:45 a.m. Jr. High & Sr. High Youth Group - Sunday 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Evening Adult Study - 6:30 p.m. Prayer Meeting Wednesday - 8:00 p.m.

MY FATHER’S HOUSE A Full Gospel Church 207 East 6th - Hugoton Pam Peachey, Pastor 544-2436 Services Sundays 10:30 a.m. & 5:00 p.m.

PRIMERO BAUTISTA IGLESIA HISPANO Congregación 618 Main sur - Hugoton 620-370-1003 Pastor Marcelino Auila Servicio de la Iglesia 11:00 a.m. - Domingo 7:00 p.m. - Miércoles

RIVER OF LIFE CHURCH (formerly Lighthouse Fellowship) 424 S. Jackson 544-4828 Don Quattlebum, Pastor Sunday School - 9:30 a.m. Sunday Church - 10:30 a.m. Wednesday - 7:00 p.m.

SOVEREIGN REDEEMER CHURCH Pastor - Eric Mason Sunday School - 9:00 a.m. Coffee/Fellowship - 10:00 a.m. Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m. 620-544-6386 www.sovereignredeemerchurch.org

ST. HELEN CATHOLIC CHURCH 1011 South Jefferson Street 544-2551 Sunday - 11:00 a.m. English Mass - 1:00 p.m. - Spanish Mass

TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH 516 N.E. Avenue 544-2355 Sunday School - 9:30 a.m. Worship Service - 10:45 a.m. Rev. Larry Bradford, Interim Pastor 544-9492 or 598-2400 YOU ARE WELCOME!

UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 828 S. Main Hugoton 544-8715 Reverend Rebecca Davison, Pastor Wednesday Praise! Kids - 3:45 p.m. Wednesday Jr. High Youth Fellowship - 5:30 p.m. Wednesday Sr. High Youth Fellowship - 7:00 p.m. Sunday School - 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship - 11:00 a.m. HugotonUMC.com

MOSCOW MOSCOW BAPTIST CHURCH 598-2455 Church 1 mile S. of Moscow, 1/2 mile E. of Moscow/Hooker Rd. Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m. Sunday School - 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study - 6:00 p.m. Team Kids (Wed.) - 3:30-5:00p.m. Sept.-Apr. Youth Study Thursday - 7:00 p.m. Pastor Sean Schraeder

MOSCOW UNITED METHODIST 598-2426 Lay Leader Patty Lahey 598-2426 Sunday School - 10:00 a.m. Morning Worship - 11:00 a.m. Kid’s Club - Wednesday 3:30 p.m. UMYF Jr. High - 6:00 p.m. UMYF Sr. High - 5:00 p.m.

ROLLA EMMANUEL BAPTIST CHURCH 202 Monroe St. - Rolla, Ks. 67954 Sunday School - 10:00 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship - 11:00 a.m. Sunday Evening Service - 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Evening, AWANA’s - 6:45 p.m.

ROLLA PENTECOSTAL HOLINESS CHURCH Corner of Third and Adams, Rolla Marcus Light, Pastor Church - 593-4626, Parsonage - 593-4796 Sunday School - 10:00 a.m. Worship - 11:00 a.m. Wednesday night meal - 6:00 p.m.

UNITED METHODIST CHURCH ROLLA - RICHFIELD 593-4596 Buzz Lambrecht, Pastor Rolla Morning Worship - 11:00 a.m. Richfield Morning Worship - 9:15 a.m. Sunday School - 10:30 a.m.

their muscles feel after an hour or two while not concentrating on one task for too long. Homeowners who vary the tasks they tackle will use different muscle groups, which can reduce strain and limit injury risk. Whenever possible, opt for ergonomic tools that can reduce users’ risk of repetitive stress injuries. Submitted by Metro Editorial Services.

Robert Rich and Amy Gooch Mason both of Hugoton were married in Red River, N.M. February 11, 2017. Robert's parents are Ronnie and Karen Rich of Hugoton and Barbara Rich of Rolla. Amy is the daughter of Jim Gooch and the late Nina Gooch of Hugoton. Amy has three sons, Quinn age 19 and Kale age 15 both of Albuquerque, N.M. and Seth age 11 of Hugoton. The couple retreated to the “Land of Enchantment” with some of their family members where they journeyed to "The Tip" restaurant atop the mountain at the Red River Ski Resort in a heated 24 passenger snow coach. The bride and groom were joined in marriage with a beautiful backdrop of the southern rocky mountains and colorful New Mexico skies. The family then enjoyed a delicious ribeye steak dinner prepared by local favorite, Chef Kai. Robert and Amy reside in Hugoton where Robert is employed as the Director of the Stevens County Wellness Center and Amy as the Deputy to the Stevens County Clerk.

MUSEUM UPDATE from The Stevens County Gas & Historical Museum Beulah Carter, Curator Stanley McGill and Billy Woodworth This history of banking in Stevens County was compiled March 25, 1966 and is made available by Curator Stanley McGill. The first bank in Stevens County was Woodsdale Bank. It was organized in 1885 or 1888. It operated a short time and then closed. For some time, there was no bank in Stevens County. Then, in a period from 1910 to 1915, three banks were organized. Hugoton State Bank was organized in 1910; Citizens State Bank was organized in 1913; and Moscow State Bank was organized in 1915. Hugoton State Bank became a National bank in 1916. In 1935 the Citizens State Bank assumed the deposits of First National Bank and an equal amount of its assets. In 1937 the Citizens State Bank assumed the deposits of

the Moscow State Bank and an equal amount of its assets. Citizens State Bank then had deposits of a little over a half million dollars. In 1966: Citizens State Bank was the only bank in Stevens County. Stevens County had around one million dollars worth of livestock. Farmers produced from five million to nearly nine million dollars worth of crops yearly. In 1965: Stevens County produced more milo than any other county in Kansas - with a little more than seven billion bushels. Oil and gas production pro-

vides about one million dollars annually for the residents of Stevens County. The oil and gas industry also provides a good payroll for the area. Hugoton has about forty retail establishments in 1966. It also has fifteen service establishments. Currently, in 2017, Stevens County has two banks, Citizens State Bank and First National Bank. The Stevens County Gas and Historical Museum is open Monday through Friday from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

The Hugoton Hermes (USPS 253-820) 522 S. Main Hugoton, KS 67951 - 620-544-4321 Owner/Operator Faith Publishing LLC RoGlenda Coulter, Kay McDaniels and Ruthie Winget RoGlenda Coulter, Bookkeeper/ Classifieds/Obituaries Kay McDaniels, Advertising/ Circulation/Layout Ruthie Winget, Composition/Layout/Advertising

Marie Austin, Asst. Composition Trips McClure, Sports Toni Hamlin, Asst. Mailing Louressa Gill, Asst. Mailing Phoebe Brummett, Rolla Correspondent Judy Hickert, Moscow Correspondent Ads email: hermes10@pld.com Newscopy email: hermesma@pld.com Obituaries email: hermesro@pld.com Subscriptions $30.00 (including Kansas State Sales Tax) for Stevens and adjoining Kansas Counties, $35.00 elsewhere in state (including Kansas State Sales Tax), and for all out of state subscriptions. Online subscriptions are $24.96 a year. Online and printed subscriptions combined are $10.00 plus the cost of the subscription. Foreign Subscription Rate $40.00. School Subscriptions and Military Personnel $25.00 (including Kansas State Sales Tax) payable in advance. Advertising Rates Noncommissionable $5.00 per column inch, Commissionable Rates $6.25 per column inch, Classified $5.00 per column inch. Frequency is weekly every Thursday. Periodicals Postage paid at Hugoton, Ks. 67951. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Hugoton Hermes at 522 S. Main, Hugoton, Kansas 67951.

Opinion Page Our opinion page is open to the public. We encourage comments from readers in the form of letters to the editor or guest columns. All letters must be signed and must include the address and telephone number of the sender. (names will be published but not address & phone#) Letters should be no more than 300 words. No libelous or offensive letter will be published. The guest column or letter to the editor does not reflect the opinion of this newspaper or its representatives.

Member 2017

This 1927 gas stove originally belonged to Edith E. Pontius. It was donated to the Stevens County Gas and Historical Museum November 5, 1971. It is on display at the Museum.

Every year the Western Kansas Scholastic Art Association organizes an exhibit for middle school and high school art students to display their work and compete for the chance to advance to the National Scholastic Art and Writing exhibit. The Baker Arts Center in Liberal has the privilege of hosting this wonderful exhibit which showcases the artwork of young artists residing in the western third of our state. A panel of judges review the works and selects which ones will be accepted into the show and the ones to receive awards. The Gold Key and American Vision Award winners are the ones who advance to the National Scholastic Exhibit and become eligible for scholarships. This exhibit began in 1923 and continues to be the best outlet for the recognition of the artistic accomplish-

ments of the youth in our country. The exhibit has been on display at the Baker Arts Center since January 24, and will close with a Public Closing Reception February 26 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. The Baker Arts Center is located at 624 N. Pershing in Liberal, and is open Tuesday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Sundays.

Plan to attend Democrat meeting The Stevens County Democrat Party will be offering a meeting Tuesday evening, February 28 at 7:00 p.m. at the home of Sko Hayes, 811 S. Jefferson in Hugoton. Anyone interested is most welcome to attend.

The Hugoton Hermes

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Page 5

School Board Continued from page 1 dents submitted applications for the 25 intermediate students who were recommended for the program. Mr. Howie talked about the 2017 Senior Class College Credits. Sixty seniors are enrolled in some form of college class and 53 will graduate with at least one college class completed. Tiffany Boxum talked about the professional development day Monday. The teachers spent the morning with Mike Burnett, a behavior specialist from HPEC. He talked about classroom management, practices and strategies. There will be a senior pep rally at the elementary at 2:50 p.m. Tuesday, February 21 for Senior Night. FFA will be at the elementary school February 22 to work with the second grade. March 2 is Dr. Seuss Read Across America Day. This year’s theme will be “Grab a Stash, Enjoy the Reading

Bash”. March 9 is the first grade music program, and March 31 is International Children’s Book Day. Elise Heger informed the board the state assessment testing window opens Tuesday, March 14 - during spring break. She said testing will begin March 20 for the students and the goal is to be finished by April 1. Elementary PE teacher Cory Graber started the Eagle Activity Club after the winter break. Mrs. Heger informed the board about the McTeacher night Tuesday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at McDonalds. Teachers will be working at McDonalds to raise money. Heger said 20% of the profits will benefit the intermediate school. March 7 at 7:00 p.m. is the fourth grade recorder program. Lance Custer, Melody Witt, Chelle Leininger and Karie Gaskill will be traveling to Vic-

toria Thursday to view how to use the career cruising program. Mr. Custer informed the board this week is the last week for middle school basketball and track will be starting up in three weeks. He informed the board about the Quiz Bowl taking place at the middle school Monday. Stuart Scott discussed the 11 inch Apple laptops purchased by the school. Apple has discontinued those so when they need to be replaced the district will have to choose a different option. HPEC met Thursday of last week, and Shelley Harris is the director for this district. Susan Carey and Savannah Hartman informed the board about their trip to Washington, D.C. Both teachers talked about some of the programs shown to them during the trip and how these newly-implemented programs have benefited their students.

Estella Pena was the first Eagle Impact Award winner. The other nominees were Stacy Dillinger, Logan Waggoner, Shelby Martin, Kerrinne Fann, Annette Sosa, Alayna Bergkamp, Livia Custer and Barb Trujillo. The board voted to extend all building level administrators’ contracts for the 2017-18 school year and extend Superintendent Adrian Howie’s contract for the 2018-2019 school year. The board accepted the resignations of Derrick Hartman as middle school girls’ basketball coach and Savannah Hartman as assistant middle school volleyball coach. Mr. Howie talked about the cracks in the high school track. There are 28 cracks in the track ranging from a quarter inch to two inches wide. A company submitted a bid saying they would fill in cracks one half inch and less and cut out a 12 inch wide strip on any cracks larger than a half inch and replace that area and then do an overlay on the whole track. The bid was just under $106,000 to do the work. Currently the district is filling the cracks and patching

Estella Pena is the first recipient of the Eagle Impact Award for February Monday night at the USD 210 School Board meeting. the track, which only lasts about a year. Howie was contacted by another company that wants to come out and look at the area and give him a bid to fix the track. Mr. Howie remarked this was just information he wanted to give board members so they could review options for the track at present. The board adopted the KASB policies as presented. The Strategic Plan Timeline and Update was discussed. The 2017-2018 Calendar was tabled until next month. There was some discussion

about some of the dates planned for conferences with parents/teachers. Superintendent Howie informed the board the National Clearing House data will be coming out. He talked about some bills coming out for vote that might have an impact on the school district. He simply wanted board members to be aware. Mr. Howie will be in Topeka Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. The board went into executive session. The meeting adjourned.

Seat belt enforcement planned near high schools Alyssa Rodriguez as Pocahontas

Josh Rodriguez as Marcus Luttrell

Griffin Heger as Dwight Eisenhower

Nicole Bustillos as Martha Washington

Beginning February 20 and running through March 5, 2017, the Kansas Highway Patrol and area law enforcement agencies will participate in the annual “High Visibility Seat Belt Enforcement Campaign” around area high schools. This initiative is coupled with the Seatbelts Are For Everyone (SAFE) program in Kansas high schools. SAFE is a locally sustained program, administered by the students of the high school they attend, and focuses on reducing deaths and injuries on Kansas roadways. Currently, 152 high schools from 66 counties participate in the SAFE program statewide, www.ktsro.org/safe.

In 2015, according to Kansas Department of Transportation statistics, Kansas tragically lost 13 high school teens in motor vehicle crashes. Of those teens, nearly 40 percent were not properly restrained. The KDOT Bureau of Transportation Safety and Technology is spearheading this two-week awareness campaign in hopes of decreasing serious injuries and crash fatalities to teens by increasing seat belt usage. KDOT and law enforcement partners across the state have spent over 20 years educating Kansas teens on the dangers of driving or riding without a seat belt. In 2015, the observed seat

belt rate in Kansas for the ages of 15-17 was 85 percent. The seat belt usage rate for the same age group was 61 percent in 2008-09, demonstrating the SAFE program is making a difference for Kansas youth. “Troopers will be working with local law enforcement partners in an aggressive education and enforcement campaign focused on the importance of seat belt usage,” said Colonel Mark Bruce, Superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol. “Seat belts have been proven to save lives and prevent injuries, and our goal is to make sure all young adults buckle up in all seating positions.”

The Hugoton Hermes

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Tony Kinser protects the ball from the Scott City defenders at home last Friday night. The Eagles fought hard but were ultimately defeated by the visiting Beavers 60-61. HHS will next travel to Holcomb Friday, February 24.

Page 6

Eagles lose heartbreaker in overtime

Friday, February 17, the Eagles faced the Scott City Beavers. The last time the two teams played, the game came down to the wire with the Eagles winning 41 to 39. This game would not be decided in four quarters, as the two teams had to go into overtime to decide the outcome. The Eagles took the first quarter with a 17 to 13 lead. Scott City claimed the second quarter, outscoring the Eagles 18 to 12. The teams entered the locker room at the half with a slight Scott City lead 31-29. The Eagles made adjustments at the half, and it looked like they had solved it in the third, holding the Beavers 15 to 4. Hugoton boasted a nine-point lead going into the fourth. However, Scott City wasn’t easily cowed, and they made a drive to get the game tied at 57. The Eagles had a chance

to win the game but a rushed shot from Carlos Montiel resulted in a tied finish at the buzzer. In overtime, the Beavers scored first, but Montiel hit a hook in the lane to again tie the game, this time at 59-all. Both teams then struggled to score. Each would get a free throw, the outcome once again stymied with a 60-60 tie. The Eagles found a chance to win the game again, however this time Carter Brown was called for a charging foul, turning the ball over to the Beavers. The Beavers drove down the court and Bo Hess was fouled with one second left. He hit one of his two free throws, giving the Beavers the lead. The Eagles had one last shot to overcome Scott’s one point lead. After a tipped ball out of bounds, the Eagles were left with .6 seconds with the ball near the half court.

Tino Degollado found Montiel in the corner. The shot sailed over the rim - and sunk the Eagles. The Eagles shot 50 percent from the floor and 38 percent from the arc. Both teams boasted 25 rebounds and six steals, but the Eagles had the edge in assists with 14 and

block shots with nine. Zack Leininger, who scored 13 points led the Eagles. Other notable scorers for HHS included Tony Kinser - 11 points and Carter Brown and Colby Korf with ten each. The loss put the Eagles’ record at 13-5 for the season.

Senior Zack Leininger goes up for two against the visiting Scott City team. Zack led Hugoton’s scorers for the night, tallying 13 points for the Eagles.

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HHS Eagle Mitchell Hamlin, a junior, flies toward the Hugoton basket during action against Scott City High School last Friday night at home.

Good Luck on your winter sports Eagles!

Friday, February 17, the Lady Eagles clashed with Scott City. Last time Hugoton played Scott City, the Lady Eagles actually trailed at the end of the first quarter. HHS’s players must have remembered that, because they didn’t even let Scott City get into the game. The Lady Eagles jumped out to an early 25-6 lead in the first quarter. HHS added another 22 in the second and 24 in the third, earning a running clock in the fourth. By the final buzzer, Hugoton utterly routed Scott City 78 to 33. The Lady Eagles shot 53 percent from the field and 40 percent from the arc. The ladies in blue also boasted 36 rebounds, nine steals and 15 assists. Sydney Hein was a superstar behind the arc, earning 12 of her 24 points from that range. Dallie

Hoskinson added another 16 and Amy Scott poured in ten more.

Katy Heger goes up for another two points against Scott City’s team Friday night. The Eagles pummeled the visitors 78-33.

Thursday, February 23 HMS Boys Basketball 7A at Ulysses Middle, 4:00 p.m. HMS Boys Basketball 8A at Ulysses Middle, 4:00 p.m. HMS Boys Basketball 7B at Ulysses Middle, 5:00 p.m. HMS Boys Basketball 8B at Ulysses Middle, 5:00 p.m. Friday, February 24 HHS Wrestling Varsity State at Hays (Away) HHS Basketball Boys JV at Holcomb, 4:45 p.m. HHS Basketball Girls JV at Holcomb, 4:45 p.m. HHS Basketball Boys C Team at Holcomb, 6:30 p.m. HHS Basketball Girls Varsity at Holcomb, 6:30 p.m. HHS Basketball Boys Varsity at Holcomb, 8:00 p.m. HHS Basketball Girls C Team at Holcomb, 8:00 p.m.

HHS junior Brooklynn Harper and senior Amy Scott swarm a frustrated Scott City player Friday night during the home game. The Lady Eagles ended up trouncing the visiting team, winning 78-33. More than 70 of HHS’s points were earned before the final quarter even began.

Saturday, February 25 Wrestling: Varsity State at Hays (Away) Monday, February 27 Girls Varsity & Boys Varsity Basketball Sub-State Tuesday, February 28 Girls Varsity & Boys Varsity Basketball Sub-State Thursday, March 2-4 Girls Varsity & Boys Varsity Basketball Sub-State

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The Hugoton Hermes

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Page 7

Ladies spread the love Valentine’s Day at Ulysses Tuesday, February 14, the Lady Eagles played Ulysses. The game started off heated, but Hugoton’s ladies quickly cooled the game and defeated the Lady Tigers. The Hugoton team saw a spirited Lady Tiger team come out in the first half, and they tried valiantly to stay with the Lady Eagles’ high scoring and tough defense. However the more the UHS girls showed their scrappiness, the more the Lady Eagles seemed to feed off of it. HHS went into the half with a a 35 to 24 lead.

In the second half, it was all Eagles as HHS came barrelling out of the locker room to hold the Lady Tigers to only two points in the third quarter. Meanwhile, the Lady Eagles poured in 24 more points. Hugoton went on to easily take the win 69 to 32. The Lady Eagles boasted a 46 percent success rate from

both the field and three-point range. HHS’s players grabbed 25 boards, 13 steals and 20 assists. The team saw four players score in double digits. Leading the pack was Sydney Hein with 25 points, followed in short order by Dallie Hoskinson with 13 and Katy Heger and Amy Scott with ten apiece.

The HHS team surrounds the Ulysses players competing for the rebound Tuesday night at the away game. The Eagles will play Holcomb Friday.

Eagles fall in tough away game

Brooklyn Harper watches for the rebound.

Sydney Hein goes up for two during the game against Ulysses. The Lady Eagles defeat the Lady Tigers 69-32 Tuesday evening at Ulysses.

Amy Scott denies a pass to the player Tuesday Ulysess evening.

Carter Brown follows through with his shot during action Tuesday night against the Ulysses Tigers.

The Eagles took on the Ulysses Tigers Tuesday night for some Valentine’s Day basketball action. For a night all about love, there certainly wasn’t any lost between the officials and the HHS team. The Eagles only led once during the game, at the 6:35 mark. The Tigers simply would not let the Eagles settle into their groove for the rest of the game. Hugoton was outscored 23 to 15 in the first quarter, and 14 to 5 in the second. The Eagles finally outscored the Tigers in the third, at one point cutting Ulysses’ lead to only seven points. However a

three-pointer from the Tigers with 26 seconds left pushed UHS’s lead to ten going into the fourth. For the rest of the game, the Eagles would make small pushes, only to see the Tigers counter and finally put the game away. The Eagles lost 63 to 73. The Eagles shot 42 percent from the field and 33 percent from three point land. HHS’s boys were outrebounded 31 to 25. The Eagles’ leading scorer was Colby Korf with 16. Mitchell Hamlin added 14 points, Tony Kinser had 11 and Zack Leininger tallied ten points.

Mitchell Hamlin drives down court around a Ulysses player during the game Tuesday night.

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The Hugoton Hermes

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Page 8

State Continued from page 1

COMPLETE MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES • Including Family and Marriage Counseling •

Southwest Guidance Center Call 624-8171 for an appointment

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Pedro Ordonez dominates his opponent this past weekend at the Regional tournament in WaKeeney. Pedro won his weight division and will compete at State this weekend in Hays.

Shopteese went 2 and 2 and lost in consolation third round. Littell went 0 and 2 and lost in consolation second round. Duran went 0 and 2 and lost in second round consolation. Vera went 0 and 2 and lost in first round consolation. Flores went 1 and 2 and lost in consolation semifinals. The 3-2-1A State wrestling tournament is scheduled for February 24-25 at Fort Hays State University, 600 Park Street in Hays. Gates open at 8:00 a.m. If the tournament runs ahead of schedule, no adjustments will be made and the tourney will continue ahead of schedule, so be sure to get there early!

Zayden Littell is ready to take on his opponent at the Regional tournament last weekend.

Kerry Hittle

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EN P O OW

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Brian Flores manhandles his opponent during Regional action last weekend in WaKeeney. The senior made it to the consolation semifinals.

Ethan Shopteese goes two and two at Regionals, ending with a loss in the consolation bracket’s third round.

620-544-2886

HHS sophomore Jagger Hertel goes up for two against Scott City’s JV at home Friday, February 17.

Rebecca Johnson brings the ball down the court at Ulysses last Tuesday for the Eagles.

Hugoton’s JV team soars through the air to attempt for two points at Ulysses last week. The team won against the JV Tigers 60-54, and the boys’ C team also won 61-51. Great job!

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Eagle players rapidly set up their defense against the visiting Scott City team Friday. The JV team won 51-42 and the boys’ C team lost 59-27. The Eagles’ final regular season game is this Friday, February 24 at Holcomb.

Why “Weight”?

Hugoton Recreation Commission Spring Soccer Sign-ups

Pick up a healthy habit this year! Enroll in the Stevens Co. Fitness Center’s

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Cost: $20 per person

New to sports, fitness and/or weightlifting?

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GET STARTED! Call 620-544-7852 to enroll!

Stevens County Fitness Center • 837 E. Eleventh, Hugoton

Toby McClure and Breckyn Hertel look for a rebound in action against the visiting Scott City team Friday night. The JV girls lost 30-43, while the C team won 25-9 in two quarters.

Marisol DonJuan dribbles the ball for the Lady Eagles during the home game Friday night against the Scott City Beavers. The Lady Eagles will next face Holcomb during the away game Friday, February 24.

Monday, February 27 to Friday, March 3

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Daily No weekend sign ups League will begin after spring break

211 S. Madison www.hugotonrec.com

The

Hugoton

Hermes

OSCARS Preview Pt. 2

Florence Foster Jenkins (Rated PG-13) Arrival (Rated PG-13) Nominations-Lead Actress, Costume Design Florence Foster Jenkins (Meryl Streep) is a New York city heiress with the dream of becoming a famous singer. The biggest problem with this pursuit is her laughably horrendous voice. Through the help of her manager husband St. Claire (Hugh Grant) she has performed before in front of audiences he has secretly paid to play along, protecting Florence from the truth. She soon decides to sing in Carnegie Hall however, and St. Claire is fearful he may no longer be able to control the narrative. Inspired by the true story of Florence Foster Jenkins this film is ultimately about love, companionship, and the lengths we will go to protect those whom we care deeply about. While this film seems like fairly surface level entertainment, within the first ten minutes we begin to see the complexities of Florence and St. Claire’s relationship and as the movie progresses it becomes more evident what makes this story so fascinating. Meryl Streep, who is nominated for best actress, fulfills the role of Florence to a T. It has been said she took vocal lessons in order to learn to sing so poorly without damaging her vocal chords, and on several occasions your ear drums will confirm as much. Hugh Grant gives a great performance, bringing much depth, as St. Claire who - in my opinion - was by far the most interesting character in the film. Simon Helberg of “Big Bang Theory” fame also gives a fantastic performance as Florence's pianist who must decide if he is willing to risk his career to perform with Mrs. Jenkins. This film has a lot of heart and a great sense of humor. While Florence's voice might not be perfect, in my opinion this film hits all the right notes. 4/5 Microphones

Nominations – Best Picture, Cinematography, Directing, Film Editing, Production Design, Sound Editing, Sound Mixing, Adapted Screenplay When twelve extraterrestrial spacecraft touch down through out the world, linguistic expert professor Louise Banks (Amy Adams) is recruited by the military to head a team tasked with communicating with the foreign beings. As Banks begins to teach and learn from the aliens, she soon receives an answer to the most pressing question, "What is your purpose on Earth?" The answer sends the military into attack mode and Banks is forced to choose how far she will go to save humanity. If this synopsis sounds vague that’s because it is. This film is nearly as complex and mind bending to the point of confusion as it is brilliant, but such brilliance must be seen rather than explained. I am in no way a huge fan of the sci-fi genre, but this film was about so much more than aliens coming to earth. It was introspective and poignant, with the aliens playing more of a minor role than one would suspect in such a movie. Louise's relationship with her daughter is a critical facet, and provides the backdrop for the audiences biggest takeaway from the film, helping us delve deep into the psyche of Louise. Where most big budget films of this genre head for action and special effects, “Arrival” aims for richness in story. See “Arrival” with an open mind and I wouldn't be surprised if it takes you to a whole other world as well.

NRCS State Conservationist regarding changes/improvements to existing programs. LWGs are important, because they provide recommendations on local and state natural resource priorities and criteria for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) conservation activities and programs to the NRCS Kansas Technical Committee (KTC). Responsibilities of LWGs The responsibilities of the LWGs are identified in the USDA Conservation Program Delivery Manual. The LWGs recommendations will be reviewed by the KTC for submittal to USDA agencies.

Stevens County Hospital

Specialty Clinics Scheduled for March 2017 Dr. Frankum Dr. Ansari Dr. Plomaritis Dr. Farhoud Dr. Brown Sam Gross Dr. Frankum Dr. Ansari Dr. Farhoud Sam Gross

General Surgeon Orthopedics Orthopedics Cardiology Podiatry Dietitian General Surgeon Orthopedics Cardiology Dietitian

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Pheasant Heaven Charities LLC hand out awards Pheasant Heaven Charities LLC enjoyed their Partnership Meeting with a steak dinner provided by Oklahoma Smoke Saturday, February 18. Entertainment was provided by Hugoton High School Honor Choir, directed by Renee Beesley. In 2004 Pheasant Heaven Charities was started by four businessmen: Bob Passmore, Brad Musgrove, Jim Wilson and Ron McFarland. Today, fourteen years later, there are 160 partners in the organization. All the monies received by Pheasant Heaven Charities from contributions are given through benevolent donations back to the community and for scholarships. Last year’s location of the calf fry was not available. Josh Jorde of Southwest Fresh Potato offered his

building. His crew even cleaned out the building. Josh was awarded the Above and Beyond Award. John Peterson was also awarded the Above and Beyond Award. He has designed t-shirts every year for Pheasant Heaven to sell. Debi Peterson was given an award for Certificate of Excellence of a committee member for all her hard work throughout the year. Tamara Baehler was awarded Volunteer of the Year. She came to Pheasant Heaven with the idea of providing all patients starting cancer treatment at Garden City and Liberal with a personal bag containing a blanket, a neck pillow, a notebook and other items they might need to improve their comfort. She makes the bags and

delivers some of them personally to cancer patients. American Implement was awarded the Partner of the Year. They have provided labor, equipment, merchandise for the auction and more - basically anything they could provide to benefit Pheasant Heaven. Their company also has a program where customers can designate a portion of their cost of services to the charity of their choice. Funds from this program have benefitted Pheasant Heaven Charities. Future events of Pheasant Heaven Charities LLC include the Ringneck Open Golf Tournament planned for Saturday, June 17 and the Annual Calf Fry, Beef Feed and Pig Roast, slated for Friday, November 10, 2017.

In behalf of Southwest Fresh Potato’s Josh Jorde, Briley Cullum and Tracie Jorde accept the Above and Beyond Award.

Alexis Hastey plays the National Anthem to start off the Pheasant Heaven Charities banquet.

4.5/5 Aliens

NRCS plans Local Working Group meeting The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), will host a Local Working Group (LWG) meeting for Stevens, Seward, and Morton Counties March 2, 2017, at Ranchito Tex Mex, 611 S. Main Street in Hugoton. The meal will begin at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will start at 7:00 p.m. and adjourn by 8:00 p.m. Meal is on your own. The purpose of this meeting is to: • Review current Natural Resources Conservation Service Financial Assistance Programs – Payment Rates, Eligible Practices and Resource Concerns • Make recommendations to

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Fri. Mon. Mon. Tues. Thurs. Tues. Wed. Mon. Tues. Tues.

3/3 3/6 3/6 3/7 3/9 3/14 3/15 3/20 3/21 3/28

For appointments with: Dr. Ansari 624-6222; Dr. Brown 544-8339; Dr. Farhoud 1-855-969-8900; Dr. Plomaritis 275-3030; Dr. Frankum 544-8339; Dietitian 544-8339 For all other appointments please call 544-8339 or 544-6160.

• Ensure a conservation needs assessment to identify priority resource concerns is developed using community stakeholder input and use the conservation needs assessment to help identify program funding needs and conservation practices (CPs). • Recommend the USDA conservation program application and funding criteria, eligible CPs (including limits on practice payments or units), and payment rates. • Assist the NRCS and CCDs with public outreach and information efforts, and identify educational and producers' training needs. According to Keri Morris SDC, the LWG should be diverse and focus on agricultural interests and natural resource issues existing in the community. Membership should include agricultural producers representing the variety of crops, livestock, and poultry raised within the local area; owners of nonindustrial private forest land, representatives of agricultural and environmental organizations; and governmental agencies carrying out agricultural and natural resource conservation and activities. LWGs also take into account concerns of particular historically underserved groups and individuals including but not limited to women, persons with disabilities, socially disadvantaged, and limited resource groups. To RSVP for the March 1, 2017 meeting or to request more information about LWGs, contact the Stevens County CCD or NRCS staff by calling 620-544-2261 Extension 3, or stop by the USDA Service Center, 607 E. Eleventh Street in Hugoton, Ks. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

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Tamara Baehler is awarded Volunteer of the Year at Pheasant Heaven Charities banquet.

John and Betty Peterson accept the Above and Beyond Award at the banquet. John has designed the organization’s t-shirts and posters during years past.

The Pheasant Heaven Charities Inc. board pause for a photo. Left to right are Clayton Gerrond, Ron McFarland, Brad Musgrove,

Vernon and Tamara Baehler show her award for being Volunteer of the Year. She designed the care bags given out to cancer patients.

Jerry Hull, Bob Passmore, Bryne Sullins, Yvonne Jackson, Greg Loibl and Greg Stoppel.

Centura Health does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, religion, creed, ancestry, sexual orientation, and marital status in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. For future information about this policy contact Centura Health’s Office of the General Counsel at 303 804-8165. Copyright© Centura Health, 2016

The Hugoton Hermes

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Rolla News By Phoebe Brummett

Thursday, February 23 Kindergarten-second Bitty Ball Camp in Multipurpose Room, 4:15-5:30 p.m. Friday, February 24 High School Basketball JV vs. Deerfield at 4:00 p.m. High School Basketball Varsity vs. Deerfield at 6:30 p.m. Senior Night 6:15 p.m. SCHOOL IN SESSION Saturday, February 25 High School Speech at Moscow at 8:00 a.m. Sunday, February 26

Booster Club Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser in Multipurpose Room, 11:00 a.m.1:00 p.m. Monday, February 27 Junior High and High School non Basketball Players Track Practice Begins Tuesday, February 28 High School Basketball Substate Girls Game #4 Seed vs. #5 Seed at 6:00 p.m. Boys Game # 4 Seed vs.#5 Seed at 7:30 p.m.

“Littlefolks” will be visiting Ventriloquist, Ginger Ingram Brown and the “Littlefolks” will be coming to the Rolla United Methodist Church Sunday, March 5 at 4:00 p.m. for the Ladies Monthly Tea, according to Rachel Dunn. Song writer and recording artist Ginger is author and producer of CDs, DVDs and books. Her many voices may be heard on several audio and video presentations produced primarily by Littlefolks Gospel Productions., Inc. Their “A Heavenly Home” video and activity book is being used with children who are dealing with grief, giving information that is educational and entertaining for all. The latest book, “I Just Know, going to heaven from a child’s point of view” is in its second printing since December of 2009. Ginger grew up on a Kansas farm and completed her BS degree at Emporia State University. She taught first grade in Hugoton, where she began incorporating puppets with music to minister in churches.

Leaving her classroom after teaching eight years, Ginger developed characters to delight both children and adults with their songs and stories. She has traveled nationwide, as well as in many foreign countries, teaching children, and presenting adult training workshops. She has made many guest television appearances in the US and Canada. Come and join us for the ministry of Ginger and her “Littlefolks”.

Dermot Community Supper

Saturday, February 25 7:00 p.m. @ the Dermot School

Pastor Buzz and Diane Lambrecht will be hosting the Supper. This month’s Supper will be a Soup Supper. Information? 785-656-0421 or 593-4436

RHS students win Pioneer Electric trips Pioneer Electric Cooperative certainly knows how to spread happiness in Rolla High School. They awarded awesome trips to deserving

young ladies and gentlemen who are in the Pioneer Electric service area. Rolla was fortunate to have four young people eligible for trips and one young

Pioneer Electric’s trip and scholarship winners are left to right Vanessa Reza, Ty Dixon and Paige Claassen; and in front are Carson Milburn and Henry Wiebe.

Senior Night is February 24 Senior Night at Rolla High School will be Friday, February 24, when the mighty Pirates take on the Deerfield Spartans. Pioneer Electric has graciously bought out the game and the popcorn for the evening’s events. Pioneer Electric will also have various other activities going on that night. The Booster Club is also going to double their shooting fundraiser. If the person selected makes the

man qualified for a $1000 scholarship. In order to qualify for the trips, each student writes a paragraph explaining why they would be a good candidate; the applications are narrowed down to the top 20 and those students are interviewed by a panel of judges at Pioneer Electric. Those independent judges look at the students’ written paragraph and talk with the students to determine the best qualified recipient for each trip. Paige Claassen qualified for the Steamboat Springs, Co., trip, with Henry Wiebe qualifying as alternate. Carson Milburn and Vanessa Reza were both selected for the Washington, D.C. trip. Pioneer Electric employees Drew Waechter and Rae Gorman brought the joyful news to the students Thursday, February 16. All the trips are planned for

this summer and the students are looking forward to their travels. Congratulations to all the students and their teachers, Dawn Hart and Traci Taylor, who worked so hard to prepare the students for their interviews.

Rolla will host Sub-State for 2017

Rolla High School is hosting Sub-State basketball this year. The dates are February 28, March 2, 3, and 4. The games will be played at 6:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. each night. The school needs help with the hospitality room. If anyone can bring a soup or a dessert, please let Arleen Clinesmith know by calling the high school office at 620-5934345.

layup, free throw and three point shot, that person will get $100 instead of $50. If the person chosen makes the half court shot, that person will get $200 instead of $100. Come out and support Rolla Pirate basketball and enjoy the other events as well. The Class of 2018 will be serving BBQ beef sandwich, coleslaw and baked beans, dessert, coffee or tea for their dinner plate.

Arleen Clinesmith poses with her awesome cakes and fun decorations. Photo courtesy of Rachel Dunn.

Happy Birthday Arleen!

Ginger Brown is pictured with her “Littlefolks”. Photo courtesy of Littlefolks Productions.

Did you know? The planet is comprised of a remarkable set of organisms that, when working correctly, produce some awe-inspiring results. However, the Earth is constantly under attack from a

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growing population and the mechanisms of man that can have very real environmental impacts. Education is the key to inciting real change. One in four mammals is at risk of extinction, while 78 percent of marine mammals are threatened by an early and preventable death due to getting caught in fishing nets intended for other species. Furthermore, at least 50 million acres of rainforest are lost every year, totaling an area the size of Great Britain, says the organization Solar Energy World. By making real changes, including recycling, cutting down on emissions and protecting wildlife habitats, individuals can help to preserve the world’s resources for many years to come. Submitted by Metro Editorial Services.

Lacee Lamb, Arleen Clinesmith, Karly Clinesmith and Marshall Clinesmith enjoy the car ride photo booth together. Photo courtesy of Lacee Lamb.

When your mother is a pillar in a small community like Rolla, it’s hard to keep a secret. But Karly Clinesmith, Lacee Lamb and Charlee Clinesmith managed to do just that, in planning a surprise sixtieth birthday party for their lovely mother, Arleen. Their dad Rusty, and their cousin Cassie Thrall helped with the planning and were in charge of making

sure it stayed secret until Saturday, February 18. All their hard work and planning paid off, while a ‘50’s theme came together for this celebration. Shawn Schwindt prepared a wonderful jukebox cake and a record cake to help with the celebration. Family and friends gathered together and a great time was had by all. Happy birthday, Arleen! Make it a great year!

Moscow News by Judy Hickert

Thursday, February 23 Junior High Scholars’

Duplicate Bridge Club meets in Hugoton The Thursday afternoon Duplicate Bridge Club met with Jan Black, hostess at the Hugoton Senior Center. Barbara Maerz held the low score and Jan Black had the high score for the afternoon.

Bowl at Copeland, 4:15 p.m. Saturday, February 25 Forensics at Moscow Monday, February 27 Sub State Basketball – Girls Tuesday, February 28 Sub State Basketball – Boys

The Moscow Lady Wildcats were defeated by the Ashland Lady Bluejays, 38 to 33 at Moscow, Thursday evening February 16. Moscow led 2117 at halftime but could not maintain the lead through the second half. The team is 4-14 for the season. The Ashland Bluejays overcame the Moscow Wildcats 55-23 at Moscow Thursday. This brings the season

to 11-6 for the boys’ basketball team.

Reminder Moscow Schools will have

Spring Break March 10-20!

State assessment tests are coming Mr. Moore wants to remind parents the state assessment test for grades third through tenth are quickly coming up! Students will be tested in language arts, math and science. Please make sure your children are well rested and fed in order to be at their best form for these important tests.

Pioneer Electric is in Moscow Monday working on electric lines.

The Hugoton Hermes

Compiled by Ruthie Winget Thursday, March 8, 2012 Tuesday, February 28, 2012, winds blasted southwest Kansas with gusts of over 50 miles per hour. Dirt was ripped from fields and sent flying into the air, turning the sky brown. As the winds howled throughout the day, tree limbs snapped, roofs lost shingles, fences tumbled over and people struggled to breathe in the dirt filled air. Thursday, March 8, 2007 Mark Crawford has been selected to serve as USD 210 Superintendent of Schools effective July 1, 2007 by the Hugoton Board of Education. Mark and Keri Crawford have been married twenty years and have three children, Morgan, age 14; Logan, age 12 and Kristan, age 8. Thursday, March 12, 1987 After serving 23 years as custodian and head custodian of Hugoton Elementary School, Earl Wise will be retiring March 25, 1987. Earl came to Hugoton in 1963. He worked at the Quality Grocery Store and drove a school bus for USD 210. In April, 1964, Earl was hired as the custodian for the grade school. Principal of Hugoton Elementary School Jim Begley has been elected president of the Kansas Association of Elementary School Principals. He has been the Hugoton grade school principal since 1975. Thursday, March 15, 1962 Rickie Hamlin, age 11, has been granted a junior membership in the American Angus Association at St. Joseth, Mo. Rickie was one of 75 people in the United States to receive junior membership last month. Friday, March 11, 1932 The road work which the county commissioners have been having done, stopped last Saturday night. Just what steps will be taken to

This charming assembly of young girls create a display as part of the Girl Scout uniforms from the beginning of the organization itself. On the back row at far left: Carol Senseman and Vanessa Smith, both Cadet Scouts, wear the new uniform. To their right, Donna Senseman, a Jr. Scout, is wearing the new informal Girl Scout uniform. On the front row at the left Rose Ann Romero, a Jr. Girl Scout, has on the newly outdated uniform and Sheri Brewer, a Jr. Girl Scout, wears the new Girl Scout uniform. On the far right, Tina Brewer, a Jr. Girl Scout, is shown wearing a Bicentennial “uniform” of the Girl Scouts. Taken from the March 3, 1977 edition of The Hugoton Hermes. care for the needy until the regular work opens up has not been decided upon at this time. There has been some complaint on account of the action of the commissioners, but the commissioners felt that the work which they had been having done was not appreciated by the workers. This work, as everyone fully understands, was being done to provide a means for those who were destitute to secure food and clothing for their families. Many of those given an opportunity to work abused the privilege and spent the money in pool halls, at dances and other unnecessary ways; thus

causing the commissioners to take their present action. Some of the men who applied for work, refused to take jobs that would provide board and room and they were immediately cut off from work. There are a few families who will probably have to be provided for in some manner, and at this time the commissioners, the city council and the Chamber of Commerce are endeavoring to work out some feasible plan. If any readers have pictures or memories for the history page of the Hermes, please bring them in to Ruthie Winget at the Hugoton Hermes Newspaper.

Rolla history from David Stout For the most part, Rolla was a rather insulated community for years and years. For example, twarn’t much variety with religions. In all my years of growing up, there were only three churches in Rolla, all of them Protestant: the Baptist, the Methodist, and the Pentecostal. The word “diversity” had not yet been invented, or, if’n so, it hadn’t found its way to Rolla. This isn’t to say there weren’t other religious practitioners in the greater Rolla community. There definitely were, but for these others, they had to go to the neighboring communities to get their spiritual needs met. Take the Kraber family, for’zample. They lived just north of the Cimarron River and were the only Roman Catholics in the Rolla community, but they had to travel to Hugoton to go to church. Likewise, Marvin Weese and his family belonged to the Church of Christ, which meant they went to church in Elkhart. The same was true for the racial makeup of Rolla, Dermot and Richfield. We were all white. To find any people of color, one would have to travel to bigger towns, either east to Hugoton or west to Elkhart. It was during one of these Hugoton trips about 1948 or 1949 that I had my first encounter with a black person. My dad tells me that I was about three or four years old when he and I headed over to Hugoton to get some parts from the hardware store. While in the store, I saw the first black person I’d ever seen. My dad knew this was

my first time to encounter anyone of another race, and so he was watching me closely to see what my reaction would be. Years later when he told me this story, he related to me how my eyes got very large as I simply stared at this man. Dad said he was worried I was going to say something embarrassing while we were in the store, but he was relieved that I held off asking any questions until we were back in his truck. My question was, “Daddy, why was that man burnt?” Dad didn’t convey to me what his answer was back then, but within another year or two I had my introduction to brown people as well when my Aunt Donna began to date a “Mexican boy” in Sylvia – and a Catholic to boot. By this time I had a far better understanding of different races and didn’t have to ask, “Daddy, why is Aunt Donna’s boyfriend so brown?” Nevertheless, I certainly got an education from my grandparents about Aunt Donna’s dating proclivities. My grandparents’ home in Sylvia was typical of the homes in that part of Kansas, old-fashioned homes with large front porches with swings. When boys courted girls in those days, they typically sat out front on the porch swing, sipping lemonade directly in front of the living room picture window in full view of the girl’s parents in the living room. (Not to mention in full view of all the neighbors and passers-by out in the street.) But keep in mind my Aunt

Donna’s previous description of Everett Sallabedra. He came from the wrong side of the tracks. Donna’s dating him was an embarrassment to my grandparents, but in order to cut down on their humiliation, they wouldn’t allow Donna and Everett to sit on the front porch swing during daylight hours; they allowed them to sit out there only after dark. Likewise, the porch lights were turned off and the lights in the living room were dimmed so as not to illuminate the young couple sitting on the front porch swing in the dark. There was just one major problem with this arrangement. Two doors to the south of the Anderson home lived Sylvia’s barber, Harold Gardner. Also in the home was Max, a high school boy about the same age as Aunt Donna, plus the lady of the house, Marguerette, who was Grandma’s best friend, a friend so close to the family she’d simply walk into Grandma and Grandpa’s house through the back door without knocking, much like any other of our family members would, announcing her arrival by shouting, “Anybody home?” Needless to say, during one of her unannounced, no-knocking visits, she wondered who Aunt Donna was sitting with in the dark on the front porch. And from this source, straight to the barber shop and to the high school, the gossip mill in Sylvia started pumping the scandal about the brown and white mixing taking place right there in the middle of Kansas.

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Send an FFA’er to Washington Leadership Conference The Kansas FFA Foundation Board of Trustees invites individuals across the state to celebrate National FFA Week by promoting and supporting participation in the Washington Leadership Conference. Created in 1969 and held annually in Washington, D.C., this conference provides the opportunity for students to undergo comprehensive leadership training. Through this fiveday event, students analyze their personal skills and interests, develop leadership skills, and create a community service plan that will make a meaningful difference in their home communities. During their time in D.C., students also experience the history of the nation's capital, touring landmarks including the Washington Monument, War Memorial, the National Mall, Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S. Capitol, among others. Students also have the opportunity to promote agricultural education and meet and interact with their legislators through congressional visits during the week. Kansas FFA President Elizabeth Meyer, attended the Washington Leadership Conference in 2014. “WLC was an impactful experience that allowed me to focus on diversity, service, and growth. The skills I gained and friendships I developed made the conference irreplaceable.” For Jim Borgerding, from the Marysville FFA Chapter, the “Washington Leadership Conference was one of my top ten experiences in FFA. It put a lot of the key aspects of leadership into perspective for me which allowed me to grow as a leader and as a person.” “I really loved meeting new people not only from around the state, but the country as well. As a result of WLC, I also discovered confidence within me,” according to Madeline Meier from the Goessel FFA Chapter. For Taylor Mall from the Clay Center FFA Chapter, “attending the Washington Leadership Conference was definitely the highlight of my summer. I was able to gain knowledge about being a better leader, explore our nation’s capital, and get to know FFA members from across the country. My favorite part was when we got to package meals for people who wouldn’t be able to afford it by themselves. Our goal was to package 50,000 meals and we exceeded our goal in just over an hour! It’s amazing what can be accomplished if you’re working with others who share the same passion as you. I love this organization and what it stands for!” Today, this once in a lifetime trip costs approximately $1,400, including airfare. For many students, cost is the only barrier preventing them from being able to attend the conference. The Kansas FFA Foundation is asking individuals to consider donating to their individual giving campaign to assist Kansas FFA members in raising the funds to attend the Washington

did you know? Car buyers may find some great deals by using offered rebates. Rebates can take place at any time of the year. Dealers typically use rebates in order to clear out a particular model year. Rebates may also be offered through the manufacturer. Dealerships may sell a vehicle for less when certain incentives are applied. Shoppers can rely on Edmunds.com to search for rebates and incentives by vehicle make and geographic location. Submitted by Metro Editorial Services.

Leadership Conference. All funds collected by the Kansas FFA Foundation will be distributed to 2017 WLC participants selected via a grant application process. Grant applications from Kansas FFA members will be due March 15. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal

growth and career success through agricultural education. The Kansas FFA Foundation supports this mission of youth leadership development through stipends, scholarships, and grants to attend trainings and conferences. To learn more about the Kansas FFA Foundation’s Strategic Plan and opportunities to donate today, visit www.ksffafoundation.org.

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History From The Hermes

February 23, 2017

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The Hermes will publish the following items at no charge: • • • • • • • • • •

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Engagement Announcements Wedding Announcements Birth Announcements Anniversaries Card Showers Obituaries Club News Graduations Honor Rolls Letters to the Editor All letters must be signed and must include the address and telephone number of the sender. (Names will be published but not address & phone)

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The Hugoton Hermes

February 23, 2016

Lady Eagles

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The Hugoton Hermes

the HHS Jaqui Armendariz is a guard for the HHS Lady Eagles. She has been with the team since 2013. Her plans after high school include attending Garden City Community College. Jaqui’s parents are Jose and Maria Armendariz, and she loves spending time with her family and friends. Jaqui is also involved with Science Club, National Honor SociJaqui Armendariz #11 ety, Latinos Making a Difference and Student Council. She also plays volleyball and softball for Hugoton. What would you do if you were given an elephant you can’t give away or sell? “I would keep the elephant at my farm with the rest of my farm animals. I would open a spot where I could charge people to ride my elephant.” What superpower do you wish you had and why? “I wish I had the power to talk to animals so then I would be able to talk to my chicken and my elephant. I think if I were able to talk to any animal I would have a lion as a friend.”

Marisol DonJuan 24

Marisol DonJuan plays as a guard for the Eagles. She’s been with the team since 2013 and will attend Wichita State University after graduation. Her parents are Odi and Olga DonJuan. Marisol is a busy HHS student, as she’s involved with NHS, Latinos Making a Difference and FBLA. In

addition to basketball, she also plays softball and is a member of the dance team. She reports she has “too many favorite memories” with the Lady Eagles to list. Marisol likes drawing, eating and watching Netflix. What punctuation mark best describes you and why? “I would say a semicolon because I thrive on compromise. I am always the peacekeeper in my group of friends.” Imagine you step outside and find a lottery ticket that ends up winning $1 million. What would you do? “I would split it up so I could use it on college, clothes, shoes , food and my car.”

Melissa Fabela has been playing as a shooting guard with the Lady Eagles since 2013. Her parents are Sammy and Lisa Fabela. She hopes to play basketball at whichever college she decides to attend. In addition to basketball, Melissa is also involved with Science Club, NHS, show choir and played

Melissa Fabela #21

the lead in this year’s production of “High School Musical”. Her favorite memories with the team include winning the 4A Div II State Championship in 2015, going whitewater rafting, riding Segways and all the team dinners. Her favorite tournament is the Blue & Red Classic. Melissa’s favorite non-athletic hobby is participating in church activities. If a movie was made of your life, what genre would it be, and who would play you? “It would be a ‘chick-flick’ and Melissa McCarthy would play me.”

Britta Beesley has graced the court with the Eagles since 2014. She plays center, and is the daughter of Walt and Jennifer Beesley. Britta hopes to attend Kansas State University, and loves rooting for the Wildcats. Britta’s high school activities include National Honor Society, Student Council, FBLA, Science Club, band and choir. She’s also the junior class treasurer and plays softball and volleyball. Britta lists her favorite memory as the ride to State in 2016, “...when we listened to all of the starters’ awful interviews with the Garden City Telegram.” She’s enjoyed all of the Lady Eagles’ tournaments, and likes to play piano in her spare time. Where - or when - would you go in a time machine and why? “I would go back to my freshman year basketball season and relive all of my favorite memories throughout the past 2 1/2 years with this team.” What animated character would you be and why? “I would be Merida because she is brave and has curly hair like me.”

Jaysa Featherston

Jaysa Featherston #33

Her favorite memory with the Lady Eagles is winning the State Championship in 2015. Jaysa’s favorite tournament is the Sterling Invitational, and her favorite team is the Warriors. If a movie was made of your life, what genre would it be and who would play you? “My life would be a drama, and I would want Jennifer Lawrence to play me.” If you could sing one song on “American Idol”, what would it be? “ ‘Feeling Whitney’ by Post Malone”

Katy Heger 25

cross country and track teams. Katy’s favorite memory with the team is winning the 2015 State Championship, whitewater rafting and the countless bus rides to and from games. Her favorite tournament is the Blue and Red Classic, and she loves cheering for the K-State Wildcats. Katy’s favorite hobby is hanging out with her pet hamster. Imagine you’re 80 years old. What would you tell your grandchildren? “Live every day to the fullest, because you don’t know what tomorrow is going to bring.” If you were on a deserted island and could only bring three things, what would you bring? “Family, Bible and food”

Sydney Hein #10

Council and an NHS member. Her favorite college teams are the Oklahoma Baptist Lady Bison or the OU Sooners. Sydney’s favorite non-athletic hobby is helping the basketball team with their chemistry homework. Imagine you step outside and find a lottery ticket that ends up winning $1 million. What would you do? “I would give some of the money to charities and use the rest to make random acts of kindness.” You’ve been given an elephant. You can’t give it away or sell it. What would you do with the elephant? “I would give free rides to children.”

The HHS Lady Eagles have been blessed with Amy Scott’s talent for four straight seasons. Her parents are Stuart and Susie Scott. Amy is looking to play basketball with the Lady Saints at Seward County Community College next year, and her favorite memory with the

HHS team is winning the State title in 2015. She likes to cheer on the Kansas State Wildcats, and loves playing with her dogs. What superpower do you wish you had and why? “Fly, because I could go anywhere quickly.” Where - or when - would you go in a time machine and why? “Back to the 60s, so I could be a flower child.”

Seniors - Hugoton High School Class of 2017 Etni Guzman

Etni Guzman #12

has played with the Eagles since 2015. Her parents are Jorge and Silvia Guzman. Etni plans to join the US Marines upon graduation. She has been a volleyball manager, and is involved in Science Club and choir. Her favorite memory is when Katy “...tried being a soccer star and got hit in the face.” Etni likes the OU Sooners and she loves to eat!

Where - or when - would you go in a time machine and why? “I would go to the future because I would like to see where I get in life.” What animated character, who would you be and why? “I would be Elsa because she can sing and she’s pretty like me. ;-)”

Rebecca Johnson is a center with the Eagles. She’s the daughter of Matt and Nancy Johnson, and also runs cross country and track. Rebecca is also involved with show choir, FFA, StuCo, choir, piano and Science Club. Rebecca’s favorite memory with the team is playing corn hole with the team at Rebecca Johnson #35 the hotel during Sub State in 2016. She cheers for OSU and Iowa State. Rebecca also likes reading, baking and riding horses. If you were on a deserted island and could only bring three things, what would you bring? “Bible, fire starter and Bear Grylls” What was the last thing you gave someone? Why did you choose that item? “For Christmas, I gave my dad a thermos because his coffee was always getting cold.”

Sophomores -

MeKenzie Hagman

is the daughter of Chris and Cassie Hagman. She’s playing her second season with the Eagles, and also participates in track, cross country, FBLA, Science Club and band. MeKenzie’s favorite memory is riding to Sub-State with the team. Her favorite tournament was the Southwestern Heights JV tourMeKenzie Hagman #2 ney, and her favorite college team is the KU Jayhawks. She likes to read books and watch movies when she’s not playing sports. What animated character would you be and why? “Sleeping Beauty because she sleeps for years.” Choose two celebrities to be your parents. Why them? “Luke Bryan & Beyonce because they can sing and are rich.”

Ashlyn Schechter is the daughter of Scott and Tina Schechter. She’s played two seasons for HHS. Ashlyn is also involved with Science Club, 4-H, FFA, band and choir, and plays volleyball and softball for the Eagles. Ashlyn’s fondest memory of the team is “when Coach Gillen fell on the hoverAshlyn Schechter #0 board”. She likes the WSU Shockers and the OU Sooners, and hanging out with friends. What was the last thing you gave someone? Why did you choose that item? “Cookies, because my friend loves them.” Zombies have invaded earth. What three book, TV or movie characters are on your fighting team? “Regina George, Alex Karev and Rick Grimes”

Amy Scott #13

Casle Heger #4 Casle Heger is playing her second season with the Lady Eagles. Her parents are Darin and Michelle Heger. She hopes to attend Colorado Christian University after graduation. In addition to basketball, Casle also plays volleyball and softball. She’s also in Student Council and FFA. Casle’s favorite memories are bus rides with the team, and her favorite tourney is the Blue and Red. She loves rooting for the OSU Cowboys, and if she’s not on the court, she’ll be playing piano or walking her dog. Imagine you’re 80 years old . What would you tell your grandchildren? “Do anything you want to! Live your own lifestyle.” If you were on a deserted island and could only bring three things, what would you bring? “Food, a blanket and my dog”

Brooklyn Harper plays both guard and forward for the 20162017 Lady Eagles team. She is the daughter of Brian and Aymee Harper. This season marks Brooklyn’s third with the Lady Eagles, and she also plays volleyball in the fall for HHS. Brooklyn’s favorite tournament of her career so far is the 2017 Sterling Invitational. Her favorite

Brooklyn Harper #3

memory with the team is definitely winning the State tournament during the 2014-2015 season. When not on the court, Brooklyn likes to watch Netflix and cheer for the Kansas Jayhawks. If you could sing one song on “American Idol”, what would it be? “ ‘If I Were A Boy’ by Beyonce” Imagine you’re 80 years old. What would you tell your grandchildren? “Regret nothing!”

Dallie Hoskinson #5

is the daughter of Jeff and Deleta Hoskinson. She’s played as a guard with the Lady Eagles for three years. In addition to basketball, she also plays volleyball, runs track and is involved with StuCo and the Science Club. Dallie’s favorite memory with the team is winning

Ifyou were on a deserted island and could only bring three things,whatwould you bring?

“A flint, bow and arrow, and Fun Dip”

Jeff Ramsey has been an assistant coach for the Lady Eagles for five seasons. He is married to Robyn, and they will celebrate their nineteenth anniversary in March. The couple has four daughters: Meagan, Mandy, Mariah and Miranda, and one son, Steven. They also have four grandchildren. Mariah and Miranda were both members of the Lady Eagles basketball program during their high school careers. Coach Ramsey likes to cheer for the KU Jayhawks, KC RoyJeff Ramsey als, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the San Antonio Spurs. You can Assistant Coach find him playing golf, reading, watching movies, or hanging out with his kids and grandkids when he’s not on the sidelines coaching. Jeff has been the agent for Farm Bureau Financial Services agent in Hugoton since 1993. What animated character would you be and why?

counted

JoHanna Rawlins #15

JoHanna Rawlins is currently playing her third season as a guard with the ladies of HHS. Her parents are Justin and Gwen Rawlins. JoHanna also plays volleyball for HHS. Her favorite memory with the Lady Eagles is winning State her freshman year, and her favorite tournament is the State contest. When not playing basketball, JoHanna’s hobbies include eating, watching movies and sleeping - or cheering on the KU Jayhawks. What animated character would you be and why? “Olaf from ‘Frozen’ because he’s cute!” Choose two celebrities to be your parents. Why them? “The Rock [Dwayne Johnson] and Ronda Rousey because they’re cool.”

Junior Kenedy Petty is the newest addition to the Lady Eagles’ roster - this is her first season with HHS, and she plays post. Her mother is Jeri Petty. Kenedy also plays softball for the Eagles. Her favorite tournament this year was Hugoton’s annual Blue and Red Classic, hosted in December. Kenedy reports her favorite college team is the University of Kansas Jayhawks, and she also likes to listen to music. If you could sing one song on “American Idol”, what would it be? “ ‘Yours to Bare’ by HoneyHoney” Imagine you’re 80 years old. What would you tell your grandchildren? “Don’t take anything for granted.”

Laney Hoskinson 20

Juniors -

in her first season with the Lady Eagles. She is the daughter of Juan and Micaela Bojorquez. Angelica also plays volleyball. Her favorite memory is when she made a basket...for the other team! Her favorite hobby is reading, and she likes K-State. What punctuation mark best describes you and why? “A period probably - because I’m Angelica Bojorquez #32 just a normal sentence, know what I mean?” Imagine you step outside and find a lottery ticket that ends up winning $1 million. What would you do? “Probably buy new uniforms for the team, also I wouldn’t even tell anyone. :)”

Cielo Garcia is a freshman guard with the Lady Eagles. She is the daughter of Zapata and Isabell Garcia. In addition to basketball, Cielo also runs cross country and track. Her favorite team is the OU Blitz, and she enjoyed the Ulysses tournament the most. If you were on a deserted island and could only bring three things, what would you bring? “Food, family and my dog”

Cielo Garcia #33

What was the last thing you gave someone? “I gave my parents a book of pictures of them from their wedding.”

Breckyn Hertel

Frances Gaskill #10

Frances Gaskill is the daughter of Dax and Effie Gaskill. She is playing her first HHS season as a guard. Frances is also involved with band, choir, FFA and cross country. She likes to cheer for the KU Jayhawks, and likes to run in her spare time. Imagine you step outside and find a lottery ticket that ends up winning $1 million. What would you do? “Turn it into pennies”

You’ve been given an elephant. You can’t give it away or sell it. What would you do with the elephant? “I would keep it with my horses just to look cool.”

Hugoton High School Class of 2019 Congratulations and good luck Lady Eagles! We’re all rooting for you!

Kenedy Petty #34

Hugoton High School Class of 2018

Angelica Bojorquez is a freshman

“Wow! I’m old enough that I have seen a lot of animated characters in my lifetime. My favorite when I was a kid was Underdog...He always fought for the right and he had a cool theme: ‘Never Fear...Underdog is here!’ ” Assistant Coach Keenan Thompson has been with the HHS team since 2015. He graduated from Bethany College in 2015, and loves to cheer for the Glasgow Celtic a soccer team from Scotland. When he’s not coaching, he likes to unwind by reading, watching movies, getting outdoors and - coaching! Mr. Thompson is a Social Studies teacher at Hugoton Keenan Thompson Middle School, and also helps coach HMS football and Assistant Coach track. Zombies have invaded earth. What three book, TV or movie characters are on your fighting team? “Only 3?! That's tough...Shaun Riley from “Shaun of the Dead”, Tallahassee from “Zombieland”] and Ash Williams from “Evil Dead”, all for their zombie killing skills and personalities.”

have

Zombies have invaded earth. What three book, TV or movie characters are on your fighting team? “Harley Quinn, Katniss Everdeen and Superman”

2016-2017

Head Coach Andy Gillen has been with the HHS team since 2011. He is married to Kim, and enjoys watching the K-State Wildcats, LA Lakers and the Dallas Cowboys. Coach Gillen says he has many memories with the girls, but says, “When I look back it will be the bus rides, the summer tournaments, whitewater rafting, riding Segways, hanging out at the hotels and the girls coming in my office between every Andy Gillen class.” Andy works as a Motor Specialist (Adaptive PE, Gross Motor, Head Coach Life Skills) and travels to ten local school districts to service students with gross motor impairments.

Eagles

and in her three seasons, she’s played a guard. She is the daughter of Jeff and Deleta Hoskinson. Laney is involved in StuCo, Science Club, serves the junior class as an officer, and also plays volleyball and softball for the Eagles. Laney’s favorite memory with the Eagles is winning the State Championship in 2015, and she loves to compete at the State tournament. Her favorite college teams are the KU men’s and the UConn’s women’s teams. Laney’s mind never wanders far from the court, as her favorite hobby is hanging out with her team. What was the last gift you gave someone? Why did you choose that item? “A hug - because a hug can mean a lot. :-)”

State, and the State tournament is her favorite competition. Her favorite college team is the UConn girls, and she likes to ride horses and rope cattle in her down time. Zombies have invaded earth. What three book, TV or movie characters are on your fighting team? “Tron man, Superman and Superwoman” What punctuation mark best describes you and why? “A period - because I’m laidback and chill.”

Coaches

Lady

Laney Hoskinson on their roster since 2014,

Dallie Hoskinson

Sydney Hein

has played as a guard with Hugoton’s team since 2016. Her parents are Joe and Carla Hein. Sydney has set her sights on playing women’s basketball at Oklahoma Baptist University next season. Her favorite tournament was the Gold Crown in Denver. Sydney is also on HHS Student

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Britta Beesley #22 The

Senior Katy Heger is the daughter of Chris and Stephanie Heger and has played as a guard/forward with the HHS ladies since 2013. She recently signed to play basketball at Washburn University. Katy is involved with National Honor Society and the Science Club, in addition to playing basketball and running with the HHS

is a forward and center with the Lady Eagles. She’s played three seasons with the team and enjoys listening to music in her free time. She is the daughter of Jason and Jennifer Featherston, and isn’t sure yet where she’ll attend college. Jaysa is also involved with choir, show choir and FBLA at Hugoton High School.

February 23, 2016

Freshmen -

Breckyn Hertel #13

is playing her first season as a forward with the HHS Lady Eagles. She is the daughter of Karie Gaskill and Brian Gaskill. Breckyn is also in choir, track and cross country. Her favorite memory is when they made a fort on the bus, and her favorite tourney was Seward County. Breckyn likes to watch K-State and spend time with her family and friends.

You’ve been given an elephant. You can’t give it away or sell it. What would you do with the elephant? “I would keep it and charge people money to ride it.” What superpower do you wish you had and why? “Invisibility so I could score and no one would be able to see me and I could get food for free.”

Toby McClure #30 Toby McClure is playing

as a guard with the Eagles for her first season. She is the daughter of Ben and Lalane McClure and also participates in cross country, track and choir. Her favorite team memory is playing kickball and eating lunch at the park during the Seward tournament. Toby likes to cheer for the KState Wildcats, and hopes to attend KSU some day. Her favorite nonathletic hobby is showing cattle. If a movie was made of your life, what genre would it be and who would play you? “My life would be a drama and I would want Olivia Holt to play me.” If you could sing one song on “American Idol”, what would it be? “ ‘Hakuna Matata’ or ‘Love Story’ by Taylor Swift”

Hugoton High School Class of 2020 This content sponsored by The Hugoton Hermes, your destination for all local sports in Stevens County

The Hugoton Hermes

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Page 6B

Spring Sting: Farewell cheap gas, prices on the rise You’ve been warned. Gas prices are about to get pumped up, eventually climbing to the year’s highest levels as refineries across the nation are preparing for maintenance season and the seasonal switch to cleaner burning gasoline, a tradition despised by many. The hikes are due to summer’s more expensive blend of gasoline, required by the Environmental Production Agency (EPA) and the Clean Air Act, as well as refinery maintenance work lasting several months that causes gasoline production to drop, creating a pinch at the pump. Last year, the national average jumped 69 cents during this season, from a low of $1.69 to a high of $2.39; in 2015 we saw an even larger in-

crease of 78 cent, from a low of $2.03 to a high of $2.81 per gallon. Highlights of what’s to come at the pump across the nation: • Average gasoline prices will rise 35-75 cents between recent lows and peak prices, just in time for spring break travel plans. Gas prices will likely plateau in May. • America’s daily gasoline bill will swell from today’s $788 million to as much as $1.1 billion daily by Memorial Day. This is $312 million more spent every 24 hours. • Some of the nation’s largest cities will be $3 a gallon gasoline very soon, including Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Washington, D.C. and Seattle,

did you know? Heart disease can affect just about anyone. While it was once widely and mistakenly considered a man’s disease, since 1984, more women than men have died each year from heart disease. According to the Harvard Medical School, heart disease is the leading cause of death in women over age 65, just as it's the leading killer of men. Myths abound with regard to heart disease and heart attack risk. One such myth that prevails is that a person who has heart disease should

avoid all exercise. However, cardiologists advise that physical activity can help to strengthen the heart, which will improve blood flow to the brain and internal organs. Those who want to exercise should speak with their doctors about which types of exercise are right for them. In the interim, begin with some low-intensity walking, as this is usually a safe, low-impact way to improve personal health. Submitted by Metro Editorial Services.

Solution to February 16, 2017 puzzle

with other large cities possibly joining due to various stringent summer gasoline requirements. • Watch out for more gas price volatility in the Great Lakes and West Coast versus other areas, based on prior year outages at refineries in these areas. As a result, there may be temporary gas price spikes. “While I remain optimistic this year will not bring a ‘running of the bulls’, we’re likely to see some major increases at the

gas pump as the seasonal transition and refinery maintenance get underway,” says Dan McTeague, senior petroleum analyst for GasBuddy. “Overall, most areas will see peak prices under $3 per gallon, and while that’s far under prices a few years ago, watching prices surge every spring certainly brings heart burn with it. If we were to add the five-year average increase we see during the spring, the national average

would be thrust to $2.85 per gallon around Memorial Day, a 59 cent rise from the $2.26 per gallon observed February 9.” States observing the largest seasonal jump between midFebruary and Memorial Day at the pump last year: 1. Michigan, up 95 cents per gallon 2. Ohio, up 92 cents per gallon 3. Illinois, up 92 cents per gallon 4. Indiana, up 90 cents per gal-

lon 5. Wisconsin, up 86 cents per gallon 6. Minnesota, up 82 cents per gallon 7. Kansas, up 76 cents per gallon 8. Oklahoma, up 75 cents per gallon 9. Missouri, up 74 cents per gallon 10. Kentucky, up 73 cents per gallon Submitted by GasBuddy.

HERMES CLASSIFIEDS Deadline for all classified advertising is MONDAY at 5:00 p.m. All Garage, Yard and/or Moving Sale Ads MUST Be Pre-Paid. 1) Classified ad rate is $ .20 per word per insertion. The weekly minimum is $3.35. 2) Classified display advertising rate is $5.00 per column inch. 3) All cards of thanks are charged at the display rate. 4) All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, children, or national origin or an intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

HELP WANTED Truck Driver Wanted

Now taking applications for

Must have CDL and clean MVR. You are home every night, health insurance provided and 401K available. You must fill out application at office 1 mile south of Cimarron at Tim Dewey Trucking Office: 620-855-3188 or Darren 620-357-1710 (tfc26)

Wanted: HVAC We are looking for an experienced HVAC service man or installer, good pay for the right man.

Apply at: Lin Goode Company, LLC PO Box C, 519 S Jackson, Hugoton, Ks 67951 Office: (620) 544-4349 Lin: (620) 544-9664 Email: lingood@pld.com

(tfc14)

RILEY CHEVROLET BUICK

(2c8)

PARTS HELP NEEDED Cimarron Valley Irrigation is seeking a hard-working individual to work in our

TECHNICIAN Starting pay commensurate with experience SALARY PLUS COMMISSION Paid Holidays, Paid Sick Leave, Medical Insurance, Retirement and Uniforms SIGN-ON BONUS IF ASE CERTIFIED &/OR GM TRAINING HELP US EXPAND OUR GROWING SERVICE BUSINESS Will train right person with good attitude Contact Alvin Riley

RILEY CHEVROLET BUICK

(2c8)

Parts Department. This position is for an energetic person who is able to work well with people. Candidates must be able to lift heavy objects and work Monday – Saturday. The Parts Department position is a full-time job which qualifies the employee for Health Insurance & 401K.

Applications may be picked up at 715 E. 11th and returned to Jason Teeter – Manager. (3c7)

NOW HIRING

for Hugoton & Liberal

HELP WANTED IRRIGATION SERVICE TECH NEEDED Cimarron Valley Irrigation is seeking a hard-working individual as an Irrigation Service Tech. This position requires a person who is in good physical condition and is able to lift heavy objects. Individuals must have good communication skills and be able to work Monday – Saturday. Having prior knowledge of Irrigation Sprinklers is a plus, but we will train. The Service Tech position is a full-time job which qualifies the employee for Health Insurance & 401K.

Applications may be picked up at 715 E. 11th and returned to Jason Teeter – Manager. (3c7)

Looking to join a wonderful team in long term care? Your opportunity is here…. We have a Full Time Day Charge Nurse position opening at Pioneer Manor - RN or LPN with current Kansas nursing license. Dementia care experience welcome. Set rotation schedule with consistent staffing assignment. Competitive salary and outstanding benefit packages available. Our team is looking to welcome a caring, knowledgeable nurse to our awesome nursing home. We strive for excellence in resident centered care, household models and nursing positions which have been with our facility long term.

Full Time Day and Night Shifts for Certified Nursing Assistants available at Pioneer Manor. Set rotation schedule with consistent assignment available, 12 hour shifts. Looking for dedicated, caring CNAs to join the awesome team at Pioneer Manor. Excellent benefit packages and competitive wages.

If you are looking to join an incredible team and make a difference in the lives of others, please call HR at Stevens County Hospital at 620-544-8511 or go to our Web site at www.stevenscountyhospital.com to fill out an application.

Starting pay commensurate with experience SALARY PLUS COMMISSION Paid Holidays, Paid Sick Leave, Medical Insurance, Retirement and Uniforms SIGN-ON BONUS IF ASE CERTIFIED &/OR GM TRAINING HELP US EXPAND OUR GROWING SERVICE BUSINESS Will train right person with good attitude Contact Alvin Riley 1034 S. Main Hugoton, Kansas 620-544-4363

Now taking applications for

1034 S. Main Hugoton, Kansas 620-544-4363

OIL CHANGE TECHNICIAN

(tfc5)

Where is it written that FUN and WORK can’t be one and the same? Not in our playbook, that’s for sure. At SONIC, we encourage and attract wildly creative people. Bold, unique personalities whose passion for what they do shows in the food, the experience and the culture of America’s most loved restaurant brand.

Check us out at SonicDriveIn.com/Jobs. And if you like what you see, you’ll fit right in so apply online and Come WORK YOUR SPIRIT at SONIC!

Area Supervisor Mike Harris 405-416-4516

The Hugoton Hermes

FOR SALE FOR SALE: GREAT WORK TRUCK! 2016 Ford F250 XL crew cab with 11,000 miles. 2500 SuperDuty 4WD. 6.2 Liter gas engine, offroad package and tow package. Short bed, new Cooper tires, running boards, rubber floor, cloth interior and spray-in bedliner. $33,000 OBO. Call 620-428-1100. (4c7) --------------FOR SALE: 2005 Ford Explorer, V6, 4 wheel drive, nice interior, stereo with multi disc cd player asking $3000 call days 428-1406, evenings 544-4539. (tfc45) ---------------

Member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS AND KANSAS ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

120 S. Main • 620-356-5808 • Ulysses www.faulknerrealestate.com Se Habla Espanol-356-5808

(2c8)

-------------FOR SALE: 10’x20’ flatbed trailer. Like new. Call 620544-9111. (tfc8) --------------

304 1/2 S Madison - Newer Ranch style home, 2 bed/2 bath, appliances, large metal shed w/overhead doors. Call today to see this nice property!

510 East 3rd - Ranch style brick, 3 bed/2 bath, attached garage, kitchen appliances, cen H/A. Move in ready!!! Call today to see this beauty!!

GARAGE SALE

***Garage Sale*** 700 S. Harrison Sat., Feb. 25 • 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 Noon ***Fill a Bag with Clothes for $1***

614 S Harrison - Ranch style brick, 3 bed/2 bath, updated kitchen & baths, att garage, fence, sprinkler. Nice property! Call to see it today!!

1591 Road Z, Moscow - Country Living!! Ranch style, brick, 5 bed/3 b, fin bsmt, att garage, 40 x 30 insulated equip bldg, 5.6 acres +/-. Call Karen today!!

420 S Washington - Nice Ranch style brick home, 3 car garage, 3 bed/2 bath, 2 living areas, kitchen w/commercial grade appliances and lg island. A must see!!! Call me today!!

720 - 722 West City Limits- 2000 Elliott 16 x 76 & 1981 Hillcrest 14 x 56 mobile homes with 90x200 lot. Call to see this property!

TAKING CONSIGNMENTS

Land/Commercial/Residential 218 N Oklahoma Ave, Elkhart - Ranch style, 3 bed/2 b, cen H/A, fpl, att garage. Nice location! $62,500 w/buyers incentive! Call today!!

K IWA N IS A U C TION March 24 & 25, 2017 Turn in your consignments to: Walter McClure 544-4202, Ron Brewer 544-8985 or any other Hugoton Kiwanis Club Member

Rentals go FAST in

The

Hermes

544-4321

(tfc2)

ROLLA PLAZA APARTMENTS 1- and 2- bedroom apartments available

519 Jayhawk Avenue - Beautiful ranch style home-Great Location!! Open concept, fpl, kitchen w/appliances, 4 bed/3 b, mast en suite, WIC, fin bsmt, patio, fence, pool, att garage. This is a must see!! Call today!!

ng! Commercial Listi

408 E. Fifth - New Lower Price!! Ranch style stucco, 3 bed/3 bath, partial bsmt, att garage, storage sheds. Call today!! $120,000

300 S Madison - Ranch, 3 bed/2 b, cen H/A, carport, fence, storage shed. Call today!!

1410 S Jefferson- Ranch, 3 bed/1 b, cen H/A att dbl garage, fence, storage shed, includes adjacent lot. Nice Location!

For more information, contact

FARM EQUIPMENT

840 Kinze Grain Kart w/ roll up tarp & new augers

CALL 620-544-5916

1209 S Madison- Motivated Seller with $5000 Buyers Incentive!!! Nice Ranch Style Brick, 3 bed/2 bath, nice renovated kitchen and baths. Large fenced backyard and more!!! Call today!!!

1003 S. Adams - Beautiful, 1 1/2 story, 5 bed3 bath, fpl, 2 decks, oversized garage w/workshop, storage shed and much, much more! $275,000

“Specializing in Agricultural Land, Residential and Commercial Property!”

WANTED WANTED: Well-broke horses. 620-544-3144. (2p7) --------------WANT TO PURCHASE: Minerals and other oil / gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557, Denver, Co. 80201. (150p45-15)

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY

Mark Faulkner-Broker Karen Yoder - Associate/Broker Residential, Agricultural & Commercial Specialist

Karen Yoder- 544-4161 or Cellphone 544-3730 Karen Yoder

“Call Us For All Your Real Estate Needs”

1042 S. Jackson Suite C tfc37

Great Deals ~ Easy Financing ~ Quality Service Office: (620)544-7800 531 S. Jackson Hugoton, Ks. 67951 (tfc6)

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THANK YOU The family of Henry Staples would like to thank the Christian Church family, Pastor Heath Kelley for a very memorable inspiring service, Renee Beesley for the beautiful music and the church ladies for the wonderful dinner. We would also like to thank the hospital staff, Rodney Kelling and the EMTs. Prayers, cards, flowers and memorials were also greatly appreciated. A special thank you to the Paul’s-Robson Funeral Home and the US Navy officers for their recognition at the cemetery. From the brave soldier defending our country to the loving family man Hank was, he will be missed by many. He loved to visit and tell old stories to anyone who would listen. Our community is a caring place to live. The family of Henry Staples: Jimmy Staples and family Wes Staples and family Terry Campbell and family Donita Graham and family

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Chance Yoder - Broker/Owner 1012 S. Trindle Hugoton, Ks. 67951 Phone: 620-544-1907 Email:chanceyoder@highplainsre.com

705 Washington, Rolla - Beautiful Brick Ranch Style, fin basement, 5 bed/3 b, att grg, fence, appliances! Move in ready! Call today!!

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SUPPORT GROUPS PREGNANT? NEED HELP? Call Birthright of Garden City, 620-276-3605 or Birthline of Liberal, 1404 N. Western, 620-626-6763. (tfc3) -------------ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS will help you if you sincerely want to stop drinking. Call 544-9047. (tfc1) ---------------

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FOR RENT FOR RENT: 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments. Furnished or unfurnished. Bills included, washer & dryer and cable. One apartment has become available and one house is available. Call 544-2232. (tfc)

Page 7B

REAL ESTATE

FOR SALE: 18 month old Angus bull. Low birthweight. 620-544-3144. (2p7) --------------FOR SALE: 1961 Ford F600 truck with 16’ metal Tradewinds box. Call 620544-3144. (2p7) --------------FOR SALE: Snapper 28” riding mower with basket. Good shape. $850. 544-5225.

Consignments are due by March 10 to be included on the sale bill

Thursday, February 23, 2017

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The Hugoton Hermes

February 23, 2017

Page 8B

“Notes From Nancy” by Stevens County FACS Agent Nancy Honig

It’s Walk Kansas Time! Get your walking shoes ready - it's time for Walk

Kansas! After a few years’ hiatus from participating in the Kansas Walk Kansas fit-

Jack has experienced 200 books in the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten challenge at the Stevens County Library. Great job Jack!

Pate Agency, LP

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The Crop Insurance Specialists

At the Close Tuesday Brought to you by:

Don Beesley, Agent

Wheat . . . . . . . . . . . .3.37 Milo . . . . . . . . . . . . .2.64 Corn . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.24 Soybeans . . . . . . . . .9.06

Office: 620-544-8068 Cell: 620-544-6888 Equal Opportunity Provider

ness program, the Stevens County Extension Office is preparing to get participants lined up to join this eight week fitness program. The first step is to join a team, select a challenge, and come into the Extension office to register. Each team needs one captain to initiate this process and collect email address and individuals registration fee for themselves and five other individuals. If you don't have a team to join you can also register as an "individual" and may be placed on a team that could use an additional member. We are opting to have registrations come into our office instead of as on online registration option. This will ensure registrations are entered correctly and that we have groups signed up in the right areas. We will start accepting registrations February 20 and will continue to take them until March 10. During the eight weeks, each individual will log and report minutes of physical activity and the amount of fruits and vegetables eaten on the Walk Kansas Web site. This can be one of the most important tools for making lifestyle changes. Recording progress keeps you focused on your goals. Walk Kansas

participants tell us that reporting each week is a powerful motivator because they know their team is depending on each person do their part. A variety of activities count toward Walk Kansas goals. Anything you do for ten consecutive minutes or more, at a moderate or vigorous intensity, can count. Strengthening exercises also count and these activities are part of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Healthy eating, including beverage choices, also plays a key role in reducing your risk of chronic disease. During Walk Kansas, you will also keep track of fruits and vegetables you eat. How much is enough? For most adults, the recommendation is approximately 1½ cups of fruit and 2½ cups of vegetables daily. The amount varies depending on your age, sex and level of physical activity. Each participant will receive a weekly newsletter with healthful lifestyle information and a recipe. Classes, programs and events that support Walk Kansas goals will also be available.

One Man’s Trash Is Another’s Treasure! Find yours at one of

APPLICATIONS OF AGRICULTURAL CHEMICALS, SEEDING AND FERTILIZING

Stevens County’s great garage sales!

Agricultural Sales and Service, Local and Direct Moscow location (formerly Kubin Aerial)

598-2356

Hugoton location 1114 Road A

428-6086

Elodie has experienced 200 books in the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten challenge at the Stevens County Library. Way to go Elodie! NEWS FROM

STEVENS COUNTY SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER 544-2283 - Activities 544-8041 - Meals 624 S. Main, Hugoton

Another month nearly gone. How time does fly. Things are moving right along here at the Center. Meals each day at noon, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Delivery meals are also available for the homebound. Call 620544-2283 and let us know your needs. The pool room will be open every day we are here. Please come and make use of our great pool and snooker tables. We play cards every Saturday evening, after a potluck at 6:00 p.m. Canasta and pitch are the popular games. Bingo is every Friday afternoon right after lunch, around 12:30 p.m. and there is line dancing every Monday evening. Always happy to greet new faces!

Menu Feb. 23 .............Salisbury Steak Feb. 24......................Roast Beef Feb. 27 ...................Sloppy Joes Feb. 28...............................Stew Mar. 1.........................Pork Loin Mar. 2.....................Swiss Steak Activities Thursday, February 23 Exercise....................10:30 a.m. Friday, February 24 Exercise....................10:30 a.m. Bingo........................12:30 p.m. Saturday, February 25 Canasta, Pitch & Potlock........................6:00 p.m. Monday, February 27 Exercise....................10:30 a.m. Tuesday, February 28 Exercise....................10:30 a.m. Pool & Snooker ..........9:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 1 Exercise....................10:30 a.m. Painting & Coloring ...1:00 p.m. Thursday, March 2 Exercise....................10:30 a.m.

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The 2016 conservation Grassland winners are Walter and Estella Beesley The Walter and Estella Beesley are the 2016 Soil Conservation Grassland Winners. Walter has run cattle on his land all his life. Over the last 44 years, they have participated in numerous NRCS and State Conservation programs. Using NRCS programs, he has been able to make improvements to his grassland. Walter has a total of 23 stock tanks on his pastureland. He is preserving the grassland by improving the grazing distribution so as not to overgraze some areas of the pastures. He has used the NRCS guidelines for many improvements. Walter has drilled several water wells for water for his cattle, which use submersible pumps. To distribute the water to various areas of his pastures, they have run a number of

Hugoton

Hermes

Thursday, Thursday, February February 23, 23, 2017 2017 Page Page 1C 1C

Ken and Rita Freisen named 2016 Windbreak winners

Estella and Walter Beesley stand in front of their home. Walter and Estella are the 2016 Soil Conservation Grassland winners. underground pipelines to the tank facilities. In some areas, there is no electricity to run the water pumps to fill the tanks, so he uses solar panels to generate the power to pump water and

Good end year pasture management is what Walter Beesley is all about. Using NRCS

fill the tanks. These solar panels work extremely well unless there are several days of cloudy weather. Then, Walter stated, he can use the battery on his pickup to genContinued to page 2C

Rita and Ken Friesen stand in front of their windbreak by their house. They are the 2016 Windbreak winners. healthy. The Friesens came to Moscow from McPherson County. They like trees around their place so

they planted many more. They planted another windbreak of 150 Rocky Mountain Junipers last Continued to page 2C

programs, he has been able to make important improvements to his grassland.

Shannon and Diana Crawford are 2016 Water Conservation winners Shannon and Diana Crawford are the 2016 winners of the Water Conservation Award. He is the fourth generation to farm his family grounds. Shannon farms the Crawford land as well as the Morris land. Shannon uses the most modern techniques in his farming operation. He uses minimum till vertical tillage and strip-till to maintain cover on his farmland. All of this helps to maintain moisture levels in the soil. He uses GPS grid soil mapping to provide data for more efficient water use. He has the equipment to Shannon and Diana Crawford stand in front of their home. plant with a variable The Crawfords are the 2016 Water Conservation winners. seeding rate as he goes justifies and less water is Shannon can check on across the field. and All of the sprinkler piv- applied in areas where pivot operations there is a higher water change the pivot speeds ots have program and monitoring systems holding capacity. This programing. He can vary which can apply variable has proven to save 2-2.5â&#x20AC;? the amount of water rates of water, as the a year. Computers, satel- applied in differing areas pivot moves around the lites and phones bring within the field concernfield. More water is ap- the data together. Using ing crop, soil type, slope Continued to page 2C plied where the soil type his phone and Web sites,

Shannon Crawford likes the vertical till between rows. Using the vertical till between

Ken and Rita Friesen are the 2016 Windbreak winners for the Soil Conservation. They bought their farm from Larry and Gloria Fox in 1996. The windbreak had already been started by the Fox family before Friesens bought the place. The windbreak was about three feet tall at that time. Ken and Rita took care of the windbreak after that. The drip irrigation eventually wore out, so they dug a trench between the trees to keep them watered. Now those red cedars are 20 feet tall. The Friesens are doing a great job of maintaining this windbreak. During the drought of the past few years, they had to pump a lot of water on the windbreak to keep it

the rows saves moisture and also saves cover.

Pictured above is the windbreak on the north side of the Freisen home in Moscow. They like

Nick Vos is the 2016 Soil Conservation Cover Crop Award winner. He began experimenting with cover crops in 2010 while working with another farmer. Then in 2014 he started planting the cover crops in no-till fields on his own. Nick remarked it is challenging to plant a cover crop that uses moisture in one of the dryest parts of the country, especially since it is not harvested. This is a new concept. However, there are many benefits. Mr. Vox explained cover crops have a natural suppression that suppresses weeds and promotes soil health at the same time. The soil is a living organism, not just â&#x20AC;&#x153;dirtâ&#x20AC;?. In CRP soil organism count is a lot higher than in fields that have been tilled the last 20 years. Cover crops will feed the soil with nutrients and stimulate the biology below. So far the cover crops

trees around their place so they have added a lot more to the already existing ones.

Nick and Johanna Vos are the Crop Cover winners for 2016. Pictured are top Gianna and Johanna and seated are Nick and Nikayla. have worked best in wheat stubble after it has been harvested and the ground cools down. However, Nick is experimenting by putting cover crops into corn, soybeans and, in the Oklahoma Panhandle, trying it in milo stubble. These cover crops are said to also help manage insect infestations by attracting more natural

Pictured is good mellow conditioned soil due to cover crops Nick Vos uses in his fields.

predators. Nick stated K-State and Oklahoma State University have also started to do some testing on cover crops, and he is currently working with K-State on some of these tests to get some data on the positive effects of cover crops. It takes two to five years to build up the organic matter in fields to show the best results. The daidon radish is probably the most unique product used in cover crops. It is not round, it looks like a carrot, long with a tap root. Its taproot will grow deep, depending on the moisture available, deeper than tillage, sometimes as deep as four or even six feet. The radish scavenges nutrients found in the soil such as nitrogen, potassium, phosphate and much more. After it winterkills, these Continued to page 2C

The Hugoton Hermes

February 23, 2017

Page 2C

Crawford

We congratulate our farmers on a job well done!

Continued from page 1C

Conservation is Very Important to Farmers in Stevens County.

601 S. Jackson • Hugoton • 620-544-2975

Farmers who practice soil conservation have a vision for the future for both themselves and America. Our thanks

Remember us for your tire needs.

and time of season. Using moisture sensing probes, Shannon can check moisture readings every thirty minutes at each field. If it rains, he can decide to shut down the watering for a few days. Shannon stated it is well worth the price to install this application for his farm operations. Anymore, using more water just doesn’t automatically mean more yield. He uses previous years’ GPS yield data from the combine to modify his variable rate plans for the following year. Shannon is a lifetime local resident. He met his future bride Diana on a blind date. It must have worked because they have been married 22 years. Diana was raised in Boise City, Ok. Shannon and Diana have two daughters, Katie age 16 and Mary Beth age 12. The girls attend school at Hugoton.

Walter Beesley’s watering facility, fencing and submersible pump can be seen in the picture above.

Beesley

Continued from page 1C

This a typical 36" soil sensor probe with casing to install in soil.

(620) 544-TIRE (8473) Highway 51 East Hugoton, KS 67951

With the many challenges facing today’s farmers we recognize those challenges and appreciate their dedication to the land.

B & T Farms Bryne and Tina Sullins

598-2304 Check with us for your baling needs.

Nick Vos uses a turnip cover in corn stubble to help keep moisture in the soil.

Saturday, February 25

Citizens State Bank Congratulates Stevens County Farmers & Ranchers for Your Continued Good Stewardship of Our Natural Resources. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

Call 544-2991 Catered by Hunny’s BBQ Banquet Courtesy of

601 S. Main St., Hugoton, KS 67951 (620) 544-4331 www.csbks.com MEMBER FDIC

and Nikayla age 8. Nick’s wife Johanna works in an office at Liberal. They have begun raising Dorper sheep as a side project. Dorpers are hair sheep, which means they do not have to be shorn. The Vos family is a hard working family and they are a credit to our nation.

Radishes and Turnips are used for a cover crop.

Continued from page 1C

Judge Tommy B. Webb

Memorial Hall

stored nutrients become available in the topsoil, so spring crops can then utilize those nutrients, now in organic form. Nick and his wife were born in Africa. Nick and his wife were here in 2001 on a work visa and worked for a local Coop. They became friends with a local farmer who sponsored their paperwork to become legal residents. They had to go back to South Africa while waiting for this process which took five years. In 2006 that dream came through and they were able to come back to the United States as permanent residents. Five more years later, they became proud United States citizens. They came to the U.S. because this country is so much safer than South Africa, and they are very thankful to be here. Nick and his wife now have two children, Gianna age 12

Friesen

Guest Speaker

at 6:30 p.m.

Walter has been able to clear brush and sagebrush from the pastureland at times. NRCS provided cost share for these projects also. State cost share programs have helped in the ranch decommissioning of eight abandoned wells. They have participated in several CRP programs. Over the years, the Beesleys have signed and completed 24 contracts and they have three more planned in the near future. Walter appreciates Estella for helping with all the paperwork. Walter and Estella have been married 46 years. Estella originally came from Buffalo, Ok. Walter and Estella have three sons, Walt, Don and Frank.

Continued from page 1C

The graph shows soil and elevation mapping, variable rate irrigation and a yield map.

67th Annual Stevens County Conservation District AWARDS BANQUET

erate the pump. He has used NRCS to cost share the expense of purchasing the solar panels. Walter remembered he and his dad Wade drilled their first water well in 1972, using cost share with NRCS. He has pastureland in Stevens and Seward County. Using NRCS guidelines for prescribed grazing, he has determined there is good value for the present and the future in not overgrazing. During the drought of recent years, he rotate-grazed the pasture units, to help preserve the grass. Crossfencing programs have encouraged him to install and maintain crossfencing to divide up the pasture units.

The picture above shows the windbreak on south side of the Freisen home.

spring by Ken’s cattle pen. They ordered them from Stevens County Conservation. This is the type of tree the NRCS and the Forestry Service recommended. The Friesens farm the land and also run cattle on their spread. Ken and Rita are the proud parents of four children.

Their children are Travis, Jeffrey, Rebecca and Gwendolyn. Ken and Rita are blessed with grandchildren and even great grandchildren. The Friesens said this is a great community, and they like living in this area as there are a lot of nice people in southwest Kansas.

New (LiDAR) technology heading west By Bill Schroter, NRCS Civil Engineering Technician Hays, Kansas What is LiDAR? “Light Detection and Ranging is a remote sensing technology that collects three-dimensional (3D) point clouds of the Earth’s surface. This technology is being used for a wide range of applications including highresolution topographic mapping and 3-D surface modeling as well as infrastructure and biomass studies. Airborne LiDAR instrumentation uses a laser scanner with up to 400,000 pulses of light per second. The laser transmits pulses and records the time delay between a light pulse transmission and reception to calculate elevation values. These values are integrated with information from the aircraft’s Global Positioning System (GPS) and orientation (pitch, roll and yaw) data from inertial measurement

technology to produce point cloud data. Each data point is recorded with precise horizontal position, vertical elevation, and other attribute values.” (Source: United States Geological Survey) Although this is not new technology, its high cost has resulted in a multi-year process to make the data available in all locations. LiDAR projects began in 2006 in northeast Kansas, and have since been working their way through Kansas. In 2012 the first large portions of western Kansas were flown with LiDAR technology. These 2012 flights have been processed and will soon be available to Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) field offices. How does this benefit, and what does it mean for NRCS and producers? I’m sure most of you by now have seen a contour map of your land. These lines are older and are

at five to ten foot vertical intervals. The new LiDAR has elevation lines at two foot vertical intervals. This makes planning a field for a conservation system much more accurate, and gives a producer a much better estimate of the cost of a project. For NRCS, LiDAR has many other advantages along with the improved accuracy of conservation planning. There are many ways in which this technology can save time. It is accurate enough that waterways can be surveyed and designed using these new maps. This will allow for year-round designing of waterways, no more waiting on the snow to clear, or the fields to dry. One of the major advantages will come in the form of long livestock pipelines. Currently, a lengthy pipeline survey may take up to several weeks to be completed. With LiDAR, once a pipeline route

is established, the LiDAR elevation data can be collected in about ten minutes. This means many livestock pipelines can now be completed in a day, as opposed to several weeks. This was a very brief overview of what LiDAR can do. Stop by your local field office to see if your county has this great new tool and how it can help. Please contact your NRCS office or conservation district office located at your local county U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Service Center (listed in the telephone book under United States Government or on the internet at offices.usda.gov) for assistance. More information is also available on the Kansas Web site at www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov. Follow us on Twitter @NRCS_Kansas. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

ATV Safety: An issue not to be ignored By Alan Boerger, NRCS Resource Conservationist, Manhattan, Kansas Everyday farmers and ranchers use all-terrain vehicles (ATV) for work-related jobs. ATVs are even used for recreation by adults, teens and small children. However, most of the time, people use these vehicles improperly or recklessly. It seems that safety has been placed on the back burner when completing a job or having fun. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s 2012 Annual Report of ATVrelated deaths and injuries, over 12,300 deaths have occurred between 1982-2012. Of the 2,994 ATV-related fatalities of children younger than 16 years of age, 1,267 were younger than 12 years of age. Of these injuries, people have become paralyzed or suffered internal injuries. And every month, thousands of people are treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries received while riding an ATV. Based on this information, ATV safety should be given top priority if statistics are to be lowered. There are several things one can do to keep you and your family safer when operating these vehicles. The following

are a few items to remember in regards to ATV safety: 1. Participate in a Training Course. Anyone who purchased a new ATV after December 30, 1986, and everyone in the purchaser’s immediate family who is within the recommended age group for the ATV purchased is entitled to take a training course at no additional charge. Others can take the training course for a small fee. Contact your local authorized ATV dealer for details. 2. Follow the manufacturer’s minimum age recommendation warning label on the ATV. ATVs vary in size and power. Each ATV has a warning label placed on the front fender of the ATV stating what age a person should be to safely operate that particular vehicle. Children often ride ATVs that are too large for their frames. Children under the age of 16 should never operate an ATV without adult supervision. Children need to be observed carefully because not all children have the strength, size, skills, or judgment needed to operate an ATV safely. 3. Read the owner’s manual carefully and follow the operating procedures described. The owner’s manual is full of useful information about the

ATV. Pay special attention to the warnings in the manual and on all labels. 4. Keep the ATV in good working order. A properly maintained ATV is not only safer to operate, but will prolong the life of the ATV. 5. Use Safety Gear. Use appropriate safety gear when riding, especially a helmet. The helmet should fit properly and snuggly to the head. A helmet that is too big or too small is not effective. Other safety gear should include: eye protection, boots, gloves, long pants and long sleeve shirts or jackets. 6. Never overload an ATV. Most ATVs are designed specifically for one rider and are not meant to carry two people. In recent years, some ATV manufacturers have designed and built ATVs that carry two passengers. Overloading an ATV with equipment or passengers may upset the balance of the ATV and may cause it to go out of control. 7. Transporting ATVs. An ATV transported from one location to another can become a safety issue. Never load an ATV in the bed of pickup or trailer and drive off. The ATV should be properly secured in the pickup or trailer with good tie-down straps. If possible, the tailgate of

the pickup should be raised as an extra precaution. ATVs can move on trailers and inside pickup beds if they are struck from behind or if the brakes are suddenly engaged. There is a lot to think about regarding ATV safety. The above items are just a few things to consider. By far, the best safety measure is to be trained in the safe use of ATVs. Managing your risk while riding and knowing your limits and abilities on an ATV can help you ride more safely. For more information about ATV Safety, call the Consumer Product Safety Commission at (800) 638-2772 or the ATV Distributor’s Safety Hotline at (800) 852-5344. Riding ATVs safely is not just good practice, it makes good sense. Please contact your NRCS office or conservation district office located at your local county U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Service Center (listed in the telephone book under United States Government or on the internet at offices.usda.gov) for assistance. More information is also available on the Kansas Web site at www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov. Follow us on Twitter @NRCS_Kansas. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

By Joel Wilhoft, NRCS Resource Conservationist, Hays, Kansas The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s, (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides financial assistance (FA) to farmers and ranchers through numerous conservation programs. Each program is authorized by law and has its own set of rules and guidelines. All have one overarching constant—solving environmental problems or concerns with conservation practices that meet NRCS standards and specifications. The first step in receiving FA through an NRCS program is to have a conservation plan developed. The NRCS delivers all assistance to farmers and ranchers through the conservation planning process and it’s free. Stop by your local NRCS field office to discuss your conservation objectives for your land. NRCS staff will be happy to complete an on-site resource assessment and provide you with treatment alternatives to address conservation problems on your farm. They will help you determine what conservation program and FA is right for you. The second step is to sign a program application. NRCS staff will walk you through the application process. Applications for most programs are accepted on a continuous basis, but they’re considered for funding in different ranking periods. Be sure to ask your local NRCS district conservationist about the ranking period deadline to ensure timely submittal of an applica-

tion. Applications will not be ranked or considered for funding if a conservation plan has not been developed and signed. The third step, is to determine your eligibility for the program. NRCS staff will need an official tax identification number (ID) (Social Security number or an employer identification number), property deed, lease agreement, or some other document to show you have control of the property, and a direct deposit form with your banking information. A farm and tract number are also needed. If you don’t have a farm and tract number, you can get one from USDA’s Farm Service Agency. You will also need to provide Highly Erodible Lands and Wetland Compliance certification along with an adjusted gross income certification. In order to receive Federal FA as a non-individual, your organization will need a Data Universal Number System (DUNS) number. A DUNS number is a unique nine-character identification number provided by the commercial company Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). Your organization can register for a DUNS number through D&B's Web site at http://fedgov.dnb. com/webform. Have the following information prepared when requesting a DUNS Number: name of your organization, organization address, phone number of the organization, name of the owner, legal structure of the organization (corporation, partnership, proprietorship), year the organ-

ization started, primary line of business, and total number of employees (full- and part-time). Non-individuals must also register with System for Award Management (SAM) database. The SAM is a Government-wide registry for vendors doing business with the Federal Government. You can review the SAM User Guide located at: https://www.sam.gov/ sam/SAM_Guide/SAM_User_G uide.htm. Registration can be completed online at: https://www.sam.gov. You must have a DUNS number to complete the registration. You cannot receive FA from NRCS programs without going through these basic steps: (1) sign a conservation plan, (2) sign a program application, (3)

achieve program eligibility, (4) application ranking and acceptance, and (5) implement the conservation plan. Stop by your local field office to get the process started. Please contact your local NRCS office or conservation district office located at your local county USDA Service Center (listed in the telephone book under United States Government or on the internet at offices.usda.gov) for assistance. More information is also available on the Kansas Web site at www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov. Follow us on Twitter @NRCS_Kansas. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

How to get financial assistance from NRCS

Stevens County Conservation District SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM The Stevens County Conservation District has more than sixty years in Stevens County and to demonstrate its commitment to the community the Stevens County Conservation District will award a scholarship(s) to a deserving high school senior(s). The scholarship is granted to enable incoming college freshmen to pursue a degree of their choice at a two year or four year college or university. The scholarship is a payment of three hundred ($300) dollars each semester and is renewable up to four (4) years totaling two thousand four hundred ($2,400) dollars. It is intended that the scholarship grant be used by the grantee as financial aid for tuition, books, and classroom materials at an accredited two or four year college. To be considered for a Stevens County Conservation District Scholarship, a student must meet all of the following criteria: 1. Applicants must be a graduating high school student of Stevens County, Kansas.

2. Provide an official high school transcript and if any college hours, college transcript. 3. Provide a summary of personal information on the following attachment. Selection will be made by a scholarship committee and will be based on the content of the application form, the personal essay, personal interview, academic performance, extracurricular activities, work experience, individual goals and character. Applications are available at local schools and are to be returned to M’Lynn Swartz at Stevens County Conservation District, 607C East 11th Street, Hugoton, Kansas 67951, postmarked no later than March 15. Recipients will be awarded during graduation /scholarship ceremony. Further information may be obtained by contacting M’Lynn Swartz (620) 544-2991.

The Hugoton Hermes

February 23, 2017

Page 3C

Everyday farmers and ranchers use all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) for work-related jobs. ATV safety should be given top priority.

From conservation to innovation, we recognize the challenges and changes facing today’s farmers, and gratefully acknowledge the important impact of their continued successes on our lives and our futures.

1012 S. Main St., P.O. Box 308, Hugoton, KS 67951

“Helping You Put The Pieces Together.”

620.544.4388

We Salute Stevens County Farmers and Ranchers for their dedication to agriculture. “Supplying all your custom farming needs”

Clifford & Paula Shuck 620.428.6400 cpsoperating@gmail.com

The Hugoton Hermes

February 23, 2017

Page 4C

Congratulations

2016 OWLS Outdoor Wildlife Learning Site, Cimarron National Grasslands Provided by the Forest Service, Stevens County Conservation District, USDA-NRCS, K-State Research & Extension, and Morton County Museum. Fifth graders from the following schools attended: Hugoton, Elkhart, Yarbrough and Rolla

All Conservation and Windbreak Award Winners Conservation Awards 1951-Art Lahey 1952-Ben Davis & Gillespie Brothers 1953-Dale Trahern, Marion & Warren Spikes 1954-Sam Bozone 1955-B.W. Brubaker 1956-R. W. Packer 1957-Letter of Appreciation to J. Saunders...and E. Reardon 1958-Carl White & Sons 1959-Darrell Skinner 1960-Lyle Powers 1961-Val Barnes & Frank Thomas 1962-George Cavner Family 1963-Sid Thomas...Harry Morris 1964-Clarence & Lewis Wheeler...Garlend & Ralph Persinger 1965-Murel Curtis...Everett Wilson 1966-Wilbur DeCamp....Larry Randle 1967-Fred & Roy Walkemeyer 1968-A.E. Kramer & Harry Leonard 1969-Gerald Schmidt & Jim Chandley 1970-Ted Gooch & Sons, Richard Claggett & Gen Bunger Hodges 1971-Warren Moon, Paul & R.C.Nix 1972-Robert Walker & Dean Roehr 1973-Laurence Brower & Thomas F. Harper 1974-Eldon Dale 1975-Morton, Clovis & Ronald Brewer 1976-Gary & Marlin Heger 1977-Roy & Ray Miller...Bertha Ward Estate 1978-Ralph, Richard & Norman Grubbs 1979-John Ertz 1980-Walter McClure & Douglas Mills 1981-Clayton Gerrond, Robert Fox and Elmer Lowen 1982-Rod and Greg Gaskill...Earl Peachey 1983-Vance, David & Tom Lahey, Howard & Bryne Sullins 1984-H.A. Lewis, Larry & John R. Slemp 1985-Paul Grewell, Roger & Glen Gillespie 1986-(Richard) Harlow Farms, (Tony) Stegman Farms 1987-Kenneth Lester, Bill Dale 1988-Mike & Kathy Willis, Floyd & Milton Gillespie 1989-Mark & Sherry Randle, Metcalf Brothers (Jerry & Ramona, Ted & Florence) 1990-Carl & Nancy Cox and Roy & Gloria Cox Frank & LaVern Thomas and Robert & Marigail Thomas 1991-Jim & Dale Cullison, Murray Farms 1992-No Conservation Award 1993-Jim Kuharic

1994-Cox Farms-Jim, Jerry & Jeff Cox Bros. 1995-Jerry Stuckey 1996-Richard James & mother Josphine James 1997-Richard Farrar & mother Helen Farrar 1998-Rick & Chad (son) Hamlin 1999-Steve & Brenda Kinser 2000-Edward White 2001-Joel McClure 2002-David & Shirley Bozone 2003-Jeff Newlon 2004-Shannon & Diane Crawford 2005-Rome Farms (Steve, Keith, David) 2006-John and Donna Brower 2007-Donnie Knier Sr. & Donnie Knier Jr. 2008-Roger & Gail Gillespie & Seth Gillespie 2009-Tom & Patty Lahey 2010-Robert & Paula Fox 2012-Wheeler Farm Inc (Lewis & Lee) 2013-No award given due to drought conditions 2014-Lance & (son) Nathan Snyder 2015-CM Skinner Farms (CJ & Marcala) 2016-Shannon & Diana Crawford Windbreak Awards 1985-Dewayne Hull 1986-Steve Harper 1987-Marvin Shelite 1988-Roy Walkemeyer 1989-Lee Wheeler 1990-Donald Kinser 1991-Jerry Stuckey 1992-Rome Farms (Steve, Keith & David) 1993-Mike Willis 1994-Frank Thomas 1995-Carl and Shirley Brollier 1996-Jeff and Brenda Mills 1997-Jeff and Vickie Newlon 1998-Jamie Mills 1999-Larry and Connie Slemp 2000-Wayne Johnson 2001-Robert (Red) L. Davis 2002-Lance Snyder 2003-Davis May 2004-Steve and Glenda Davis 2005-Dean Roehr 2006-Gary Porter 2007-Paul Grewell 2008-David and Nola Walker 2009-Richard & Peggy Hoskinson 2010-Glen & Vicki Gaskill 2011-No award given due to drought conditions 2012-No award given due to drought conditions 2013-Lewis & Grace Wheeler 2014-Craig White 2015-Steve & Donna Harper 2016-Ken & Rita Friesen

Mike Willis Pate Agency, LP Seed Sales The Crop Insurance Specialists

620-544-2189 Hugoton, Kansas 620-544-7226

Hoskinson Water Well Service “Your Complete Domestic Well Service”

544-7978

Don Beesley, Agent

544-7333 Fax • 544-8333

Office: 620-544-8068 Cell: 620-544-6888 Equal Opportunity Provider

Northwest Cotton Growers Co-op Gin www.pioneerelectric.coop 1850 W. Oklahoma Ave Ulysses (620) 356-1211

598-2008 Moscow, KS

Grow With Us!

Insurance and Financial Services

2332 Road 20 Moscow 620-598-2388

Debbie L. Nordling, State Farm Agent 617 S. Main Hugoton, KS 67951

620-544-8528 - Phone 620-544-8527 - Fax debbie.nordling.c2v4@statefarm.com

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

Candee Archuleta Office Manager 120 W. 6th Street Hugoton KS. 67951

Office 620-544-2800 Call Shay Robinson 308-440-5104 (Crop Insurance agent)

Kansas Cost-Share Programs Conservation practices benefit all Kansans by providing cleaner water, more productive crop and grazing lands, and improved wildlife habitat. The Division of Conservation, (DOC) Kansas Department of Agriculture administers four voluntary cost-share programs, the Water Resources Cost-Share Program, the Non-Point Source Pollution Control Program, Riparian and Wetland Protection Program and the Governor's Water Quality Buffer Initiative Program. These programs provide financial assistance to eligible landowners for conservation practices that reduce soil erosion, improve water quality and/or conserve water. All of the DOC programs are guided by the State Conservation Commission (SCC) board of commissioners consisting of five elected and four appointed members. The Kansas Water Authority annually develops the Kansas Water Plan, which provides recommendations to the Kansas Legislature in determining appropriations and priorities. Most of the DOC programs are funded through the Kansas Water Plans dedicated sources of funding. It is by this funding source the DOC, through conservation districts, has financial assistance available for Kansas landowners to apply conservation practices. Program funds are allocated to each conservation district on July 1, which is the beginning of the state fiscal year. Additional financial assistance funds are allocated to address water quality impairments identified in river segments and lakes through the Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) process. The TMDLs set the maximum amount of pollution that a specific water body can receive without violating the surface water quality standards. The state cost-share programs are administered locally in each county by the conservation district. The conservation district board of supervisors tailors state programs to meet critical conser-

vation needs identified within the county. Annually, the supervisors establish local policies, which includes selecting practices, determining landowner limits and setting cost-share rates not to exceed 70 percent. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides a majority of the technical assistance. Conservation practices must also meet standards to ensure functionality and enduring lifespan. Most practices funded by the DOC must meet standards of the NRCS. Nearly all of the conservation districts in Kansas are colocated in a USDA Service Center with NRCS. After conservation district approval, the cost-share applicants must sign a Division of Conservation, Kansas Department of Agriculture Contract for Financial Assistance which explains conditions of receiving state cost-share funds. This document assures proper conformance to state practice implementation and maintenance requirements for a minimum of 10 years. Construction of costshare practices cannot begin until a contract is approved by the conservation district, approved by the Division of Conservation, Kansas Department of Agriculture, and signed by the landowner(s). Each county conservation district accepts requests for financial assistance during a sign-up period. After the signup period, each application is reviewed by the board of supervisors and district staff for eligibility and ranked according to state and locally identified priorities. Landowners are notified by the conservation district whether the project is approved or denied for cost-share assistance. After the practice is com-

pleted, the landowner notifies the conservation district and submits invoice(s)/receipt(s) to the office. An authorized representative of the conservation district will verify the practice was completed according to specification. The conservation district then submits a request to the Division of Conservation, Kansas Department of Agriculture for payment to the landowner. County average cost is used as basis for determining the amount of cost-share assistance earned. Costshare is also based upon availability of funds, project limits and landowner limits. A landowner receiving $600 or more in cost-share assistance will receive a Form 1099-G from the State of Kansas. Please contact your conservation district for program availability or to see how you can get more involved in conserving soil and water for future generations. For Stevens County landowners contact us at (620) 544-2991 ext.3.

Upcoming deadlines for FSA programs

March 15 - Non Insurable Acreage Program (NAP) application deadline for sorghum forage and most fruits and vegetables March 31 - CRP Playa signup deadline Last day to request 2016 Wheat LDP May 1 - Continued drought may trigger Livestock Forage Program payments July 15 - Feed grain certification deadline August 1 - ARC/PLC signup deadline for 2017 Turn in Cattle Losses within 30 days of adverse weather event for Livestock Indemnity Program

SOIL CONSERVATION

The Hugoton Hermes

Get involved as an Earth Team Volunteer “What can I do?” Well, no matter what your talents, interests, age, or physical ability, there is a volunteer opportunity for you. Here are a few examples: • Schools benefit from tours, exhibits, poster contests and festivals. Volunteers are needed to help organize events, conduct classes, take pictures, cook food, write news articles and chaperon students on the bus. And lastly, one of the most appreciated jobs a volunteer can do is just become a glorified gofer to support staff and save

them time and steps. • Town and community groups benefit from educational meetings and publications. Volunteers are needed to present programs and speak about conservation issues. Volunteers with a history in writing can produce publications and artwork. • Field office support is needed. This can include opportunities assisting with monthly newsletters, judging poster and essay contests, phone and office support when staff is not available, and lastly

clerical assistance to help organize and file. • Working in the outdoors presents many other opportunities for volunteers. Outdoor activities include assisting the professional staff as they work directly with farmers and ranchers. Volunteers can take notes and assist with survey equipment, make natural resource inventories, and assist in improving wildlife habitats. It is important to preserve habitat for pheasant, quail, prairie chicken and many other native wildlife species that reside on

farms and ranches. • Other outdoor activities which need volunteer assistance are the planning of community beautification and projects for water quality and erosion control. Volunteers are greatly appreciated and can be the essential link in developing programs which benefit their own community. Becoming a member of your local Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Advisory Council is one way to seeing a need and having the opportunity to fix the problem and change your own community for the better. • There is also an apprentice program. This is a program for high school and college students. It provides experience and information to help make informed career choices, and fulfills community service requirements for scholarships, colleges and technical schools. It also provides work experience for job application and resumes, and provides a reference to natural resources in making lifetime decisions. Volunteers and apprentices are needed and appreciated. If you would like to join other Kansas residents who already donate their time to conserve and protect our natural resources, visit your local NRCS office or conservation district office to learn more about being an Earth Team volunteer. The office is located at your local USDA Service Center 607 East Eleventh, Hugoton, Ks 67951 620-544-2261 ext 3 or on the Internet at offices.usda.gov. More information is also available on the Kansas Web site at www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity employer and provider

February 23, 2017

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IMPORTANT NOTICE All of the Stevens County Conservation District’s programs, sign-ups, meeting notices / invitations, updates and newsletters will be sent through email. We will no longer send notices through U.S. Postal Service. If you would like to be added to our mailing list or to ensure we have your most current information you can send it to: stevenscountycd@gmail.com or if you would like your e-mail address to be removed from our list. Feel free to call our office at 620-544-2991 Ext 3 if you have any questions.

Congratulations to Stevens County’s past and present

Conservation winners!

ROME FARMS 544-8991 Keith, Dave & Steve Rome

We Salute The Dedicated Farmers Of Stevens County. Conserving the soil makes for a better farming future! Insurance Agency Karen Yoder, Agency Manager 600 S. Main • Hugoton • 620-544-4314

Conservation Compliance still an important issue Alan R. Boomer. Resource Conservationist, Manhattan, Kansas Calendar year 2015 marked the thirtieth anniversary of the Food Security Act of 1985 (also known as the 1985 U.S. Farm Bill) being signed into law. Since 1985, millions of acres of agricultural lands have had conservation plans developed on them with assistance from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Furthermore, millions of tons of soil have been saved due to the planning efforts made by NRCS and the producers who implemented the practices outlined in those conservation plans. Even though conservation compliance is not foremost in everyone’s mind in recent years, the regulations of the Food Security Act are still something producers must adhere to if they wish to continue to be eligible for U. S. Department of Agriculture

(USDA) programs and benefits. A few of the USDA benefits and programs that can be affected due to non-compliance issues include: • Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) eligibility • Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) eligibility • Conservation Stewardship Program (CStP) eligibility • Agriculture Easement Conservation Program (ACEP) eligibility • Other Farm Service Agency (FSA) benefits • Federal Crop Insurance benefits Each year, NRCS field staff is provided a list of randomly selected tracts of land to review to ensure producers are implementing or using conservation systems that meet conservation compliance criteria. During the review process, the current con-

servation system is evaluated in the field to ensure the system being implemented is properly maintaining or reducing the tolerable soil loss limits for the highly erodible field. In addition to reviewing soil loss limits, NRCS staff also reviews whether or not the protection of wetland areas is being observed by producers. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in the amount of trees being cleared along riparian areas or issues of stream channels being either filled or straightened. Many of these actions can carry consequences to USDA benefit eligibility, but could involve other issues or violations to regulations to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Producers who are thinking of removing trees or manipulating possible wetland areas, need to consult with their local FSA or NRCS office to ensure their proposed actions do

NRCS adds two Kansas Watersheds Landowners in three Kansas watersheds can apply now for assistance to improve the water quality in the targeted watersheds. U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is providing funds through the National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI) program. This program helps landowners improve small watersheds by remediating issues such as nutrient and sediment runoff or water with excessive pathogens.

The cut-off for fiscal year 2017 funds is March 20, 2017. The watersheds that would benefit the most from conservation efforts are selected in collaboration with Kansas state agencies, partners, and the NRCS Kansas Technical Committee. Three watersheds are being funded for 2017. “Although financial assistance is provided to individual landowners, all residents living in these watersheds will benefit by having cleaner waterways and

We care about the well-being and continued success of our local farmers.

509 West 11th St. Hugoton, Ks 620-544-8500

safer drinking water,” according to Monty Breneman, Kansas NRCS Assistant State Conservationist for Programs. For the town of Munjor-Big Creek, funding will continue for 2017 for practices that reduce the E. coli bacteria in the water. Two additional watersheds have been added. The headwaters of Soldier Creek targets reducing the total suspended solids in the water. The third watershed, headwaters of Mud Creek, targets the reduction of E. coli bacteria in the water. West Emma Creek, in Hesston and Canton, along with the headwaters of Grasshopper Creek, have been taken off the NWQI program for 2017. For more information, visit the Kansas NRCS Web site www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov/pro grams or your local U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Service Center. To find a service center near you, check on the Internet at offices.usda.gov. Follow us on Twitter @NRCS_Kansas. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

not affect wetlands or cause violations which may carry heavy fines and costs for mitigating affected wetland areas. Since the Food Security Act of 1985 was signed into law, many changes in farming practices and farm programs have taken place, but one remaining fact still endures, compliance with the Act is still the law. Producers can protect their program eligibility and benefits by practicing good conservation methods and understanding the laws that were designed to protect our natural resources. Contacting and working with your local FSA and NRCS office can help you protect your land and your USDA benefits. For more information visit the Kansas NRCS Web site www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov or your local U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Service Center. To find a service center near you, check your telephone book under “United States Government” or on the lnternet at offices.usda.gov. Follow us on Twitter @NRCS_Kansas. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

We salute our Farmers for their hard work and dedication in conserving the soil for future generations. Farming is about more than just planting seeds. Their commitment to producing a thriving variety of crops and livestock requires long hours, risk and hard work. Hugoton 509 NW Ave. 620-544-2017 West Road 11 620-544-8898

Moscow 300 N. Road 20 620-598-2214 East Hwy 56 620-598-2101

EXPERT ADVICE • CUSTOMIZED SERVICE • INDUSTRY-LEADING SEED PRODUCTS As Channel® Seedsmen, we get to know you and your farm first. From walking your fields to recommending the best product placement, they’re all signs of our commitment to you. It allows us to provide you with the best in-season advice and industry-leading seed products all season long. Make Seedsmanship your sign for success, this year, and the next.

Contact your Channel Seedsman:

Warren Willis Seed Sales Hugoton, KS

620-428-1063

The Hugoton Hermes

February 23, 2017

Page 6C

The History of Conservation During the 1930's, the Dust Bowl made the need to conserve natural resources, particularly soil, very clear. Agencies ranging from Land Grant Universities to the Federal Emergency Relief Administration researched and implemented conservation practices throughout the nation. Eventually the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) was created under the Soil Conservation Act of 1935, to develop and implement soil erosion control programs. It was soon evident that local leadership was needed to encourage local participation and coordinate efforts of conservation agencies. As a consequence, the U.S. Congress developed a model Conservation District Law, for consideration by state governments. In 1937, the State Conservation Committee was established by the Kansas legislature with the enactment of the Kansas Conservation District Law. In 1972, the State Soil Conservation Committee's name was changed to the State Conservation Commission (SCC). The desire of Conservation District supervisors to share their experiences with other districts and promote conservation statewide led to the organization of the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts in 1944. In 2011, Governor Brownback combined the SCC into the Kansas De-

partment of Agriculture. The change left the Commission as a policy making board and incorporated the SCC into the new Division of Conservation within the Kansas Department of Agriculture. Chronological Timeline of Conservation The following is history of the SCC from 1937 to 2011. In 2011, the SCC staff was consolidated into the newly formed Division of Conservation, Kansas Department of Agriculture. •Timeline • 1937 - President urged all states to pass legislation authorizing a soil conservation program. • 1937 - Kansas legislature passed the Kansas Conservation Districts Law. • 1937 - The State Soil Conservation Committee was established by the Kansas Legislature to promote soil and water conservation. • 1938 - The first Kansas conservation district was formed in Labette County. • 1943 - An employee of the State Extension Service, Mr. Reuben Lind, was instrumental in organizing and developing conservation districts serving as Committee Secretary. • 1944 - Kansas Association of Conservation Districts organized. • 1946 - National Association

of Conservation Districts formed. • 1950 - The State Soil Conservation Committee´s first full time employee was hired. • 1951 - The Kansas legislature expanded the State Soil Conservation Committee membership from two to five farmer members. • 1951 - The state was divided into five areas for committee elections. • 1951 - The U.S. Congress passed Public Law 566 (PL566) providing watershed and flood protection. • 1953 - County Commissioners were authorized to furnish districts clerical services or monies for that purpose. • 1954 - The last of the 105 Kansas Soil Conservation Districts formed. • 1958 - Watershed Planning Assistance Program authorized. • 1958 - The State Soil Conservation Committee hires their first fieldman. • 1963 - The State Soil Conservation Committee headquarters office was established in Topeka when the Manhattan and Topeka offices were combined. • 1963 - Legislature authorized state funds to match up to $3,000 county funds for conservation district operations. • 1963 - Benefit Area Program authorized - Transferred from Kansas Water Office to the SCC

in 1986. • 1972 - The State Soil Conservation Committee´s name was changed to State Conservation Commission. • 1972 - Soil conservation districts became conservation districts. • 1977 - Watershed Dam Construction Program authorized. • 1979 - Legislature authorized county commissioners to provide assistance up to $7,500 and the state was authorized to match up to $7,500. • 1979 - Legislature authorized the Water Resources Cost-Share Program. • 1981 - Legislature authorized county commissioners to levy .5 mill (not to exceed $15,000) in addition to $7,500 from the county general fund. • 1984 - Kansas Water Plan developed. • 1985 - Multi Purpose Small Lakes Program authorized in 1985. • 1986 - Legislature authorized county commissions to levy 2 mills or $55,000, whichever is less. • 1987 - Legislation was passed requiring water development projects subject to review by environmental agencies prior to approval of a permit to construct. • 1988 - Water Rights Purchase Program authorized. • 1989 - The State Water Plan

We congratulate past winners of the Distinguished Community Service Award* 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991

T.A. Dudley Wayne Guyer Wilbur White Chester Kinser Frank Ellsaesser Jay Saunders Faith Greenway Langdon L. Morgan Earl Peachey Paul Bach Warren Moon Ross Teeter Robert Fox

CIRCLE H FARMS LLC 1242 Road 12 544-2688

528 S. Main St • Hugoton • 544-8820

Shell Rotella® Conventional Heavy Duty Motor Oil Gallon

1992 Paul Nix 1993 Leslie Kinser 1994 Laurence W. Brower 1995 Mabel Harmon 1996 Walter Young 1997 Melvin Webb 1998 Don Kinser 1999 Ruby Rowden 2000 Walter McClure 2001 Marlin Heger 2002 Florence Metcalf 2003 Roy Walkemeyer 2004 Steve Morris

Express Inc. 1015 W. City Limits 544-7500

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Keith Farrar Wayne Comer Gary Gold Neal Gillespie Mike Schechter Pheasant Heaven Charities 2011 Gary Baker 2012 Jan Leonard 2013 Sharon Concannon 2014 The Peace House 2015 Richard Claggett

STEVENS COUNTY FARM BUREAU ASSOCIATION 544-2777

KRAMER SEED FARMS 1114 S. Monroe 544-4330

1520 W 10th Hugoton (620) 544-8995

Special Revenue Fund was established providing funds to allow Kansas to address natural resource needs in a timely and effective manner. • 1989 - Legislature authorized Non-Point Source Pollution Control Fund. • 1989 - Legislature authorized Riparian and Wetland Protection Program. • 1994 - The Kansas Legislature enacted the Surface Mining Land Conservation and Reclamation Program to be administered by the State Conservation Commission. • 1994 - The legislature amended laws to provide for the election process to include all qualified electors residing within the conservation district. • 1994 - State aid to conservation districts limit raised to match county funds up to $10,000 annually and the limit on county general funds removed. • 1995 - The USDA, Soil Conservation Service (SCS), name

changes to the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). • 1998 - The legislature creates the Kansas Water Quality Buffer Initiative Program. • 2006 - The legislature authorized the Water Right Transition Pilot Project Program. • 2007 - Conservation Districts receive eligibility up to $25,000 state match in District Aid. The legislature authorized the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program to permanently retire water rights. • 2007 - The Water Supply Restoration Program was enacted. • 2010 – The SCC cost-shared on the newly authorized Water Supply Restoration Programs pilot project. Mission Lake was dredged in Northeast Kansas. • 2011 – The SCC staff was consolidated into the newly formed Division of Conservation, Kansas Department of Agriculture.

Managing nitrogen with cover crops By Robert Schiffner, NRCS Resource Conservationist, Hays, Kansas It’s the end of the 2014 crop year and many producers are looking to the next cropping season. The next step in many areas is determining the fertilizer needs of the next crop. If you're using cover crops, there may be more to determining fertilizer needs than merely looking at a current soil test. A few things to keep in mind: 1. Soil tests will report lower nutrient availability on fields where a successful cover crop is growing or has recently been terminated than on fields where no cover crop was used. 2. Plant-available nitrogen (PAN) released from cover crops depend on crop species and crop growth stage, soil temperature, soil microbial activity, and many environmental factors. The timing of the cover 3. crop termination and incorporation in relation to planting the following crop and the weather, plus a host of other management practices influence the speed of nutrient release from the cover crop. Most cover crops release PAN within 4 to 6 weeks following termination. 4. Tissue samples from the cover crop can be analyzed by most soil testing labs and can provide an indication of nutrient uptake. For most cover crops, however, this is only easily done by collecting the above ground portion of the plant, which doesn't represent the entire picture. To get the most PAN value from cover crops, universities recommend removing aboveground biomass late in the vegetative growing stage. However, you should check with your crop insurance company before implementing this. A lab analysis for cover crop total nitrogen

as a percentage of dry matter is a good predictor of a cover crop capacity to release PAN for summer crop. Cover crop biomass must be broken down by soil microbes in order for nutrients to be available for a following crop. The carbon and nitrogen content in the tissue at the time of termination will have an impact on how fast this breakdown will occur. There are a number of recommendations cautioning that cover crops having a high carbon to nitrogen ratio, like cereal grains and grasses, may cause a net reduction in available soil nitrogen (a negative nitrogen credit), especially when these are terminated in a late growth stage and too close to planting of crops like corn. This is a frequent problem for many growers when first experimenting with a cover crop system. However, when these crops are properly managed, they can provide a positive nitrogen credit if they are planted in conjunction with legumes to lower the carbon to nitrogen ratio. Remember, if you are in doubt, always have a sample tested for percentage nitrogen in dry matter to determine the amount of plant-available nitrogen. Please contact your NRCS office or conservation district office located at your local county U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Service Center (listed in the telephone book under United States Government or on the internet at offices.usda.gov) for assistance. More information is also available on the Kansas Web site at www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov. Follow us on Twitter @NRCS_Kansas. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Congratulations Past Grassland Merit Award Winners

Más-Cow Dairy 513 W. First Street Hugoton 544-2195

499 N. County Road 20 Moscow 598-2697

Bultman, Inc 110 E. 6th Street Hugoton (620) 544-2620

*Presented by the Stevens County Conservation District and Extension Service to an extraordinary individual who has made significant difference and contributions to the community for efforts in business, civic, government and agriculture purposes.

1995 Gerald Schmidt Family 2003 Sid & Sheila Burrows 2005 Jim Persinger 2006 Richard Claggett 2007 Dennis & Beth Moser

2008 Steve & Brenda Kinser 2010 Ervin & Galen Hancock 2013 Ron DeGarmo 2014 Sally Mann Adee 2016 Walter & Estella Beesley

and Wildlife Habitat Award Winners 1989 Rome Farms (Steven, Keith & David) 2010 Jerry & Laura Hull • 2015 Bryne & Tina Sullins

The Hugoton Hermes

February 23, 2017

Page 7C

Cost Share Assistance Programs are funded by State Conservation Commission Funding provided by the State Conservation Commission through appropriation from the Kansas Water Plan Fund is allocated to local Conservation Districts each year in July. The Stevens County Conservation District uses these Water Resources Conservation Funds to address the following practices in Stevens County. • Field, Farm and/or Livestock Windbreaks Includes Drip Irrigation and Fabric Weed Barrier. • Irrigation pipelines when converting flood to center pivot sprinkler • Livestock Practices include: Water Wells Pumping Source Pipelines Stock Tanks/ Waterers Cross-Fencing • Seeding included for: Pasture / Hayland Range Seeding

Windbreaks, along with drip irrigation and fabric weed barrier, can be funded by cost share assistance programs if you are a Stevens County landowner. Critical Area Planting The cost-share assistance program pays 70% of the County-Average-Cost (CAC). The CAC is used as a basis for determining the amount of cost share assistance earned, not to exceed $5,000. Non-Point Source funds assist water quality funds will

be used to plug abandoned water wells and upgrade failing septic systems and/or close out abandoned septic systems. Funding for plugging water wells will be 70% of the county average cost up to $1,000 while the septic systems will be limited to $4,000.

To ensure structures are built to the program guidelines, technical assistance will be provided. No practice can be started until the application and design has been approved. How do you qualify? If you are a Stevens County landowner you can apply for cost-share funds. How do you apply? Check with our office for costshare assistance in conservation protection and the eligible practices to improve your operation. Technical assistance will be provided to help complete the application forms and to answer any questions regarding the programs. Contact: Stevens County Conservation District Office, 607 East Eleventh, Hugoton, Kansas 67951, Phone: 620544-2991 Ext. 3, E-mail: stevenscountycd@gmail.com.

We’re proud of this community’s farming tradition and conservation.

PE ARCY IRRIGATION LLC 510 W. Fifth Hugoton

Contact Jonathan 620-541-1049 or Will Cullum 620-453-0079 Office 620-428-6333

We salute

Stevens County Farmers

Getting back to the basics of conservation By Keri Morris-SDC Hugoton Mgt Unit As Hugh Hammond Bennett - the Father of Soil Conservation Service - once said, “As a nation we need to renew our acquaintance with the land and reaffirm our faith in its continuity of productiveness-when properly treated. (H. H. Bennett. “Adjustment of Agriculture to Its Environment.” Annals of the Association of American Geographers XXXIII (December, 1943]: 163198.) Conservation programs have been around for some time. However, sometimes it is forgotten that it's not just about the programs that we can apply for or the money we may receive for being good stewards of the land. NRCS as

an agency promotes conservation of our natural resources and the programs to help support and carry out the conservation needs of our lands, but there is so much more to conservation than the programs we support. A proper conservation plan should meet the goals and objectives of the producer, but should also positively benefit the land, animals and their environment. If we, as stewards of the land, are doing our job we should be making positive impacts to our environment. A step in the right direction is an updated conservation plan. Your local NRCS office would be happy to assist you in your pursuit of conservation. To have a viable conserva-

tion plan and/or program contract, the planning process should start well before an application is made. It is not a requirement to have all the planning done prior to an application for NRCS programs, but it is a good idea. A current conservation plan not only benefits you as a steward of the land, but it also makes the application process run smoother if you choose to apply. If your land is highly erodible, it is a requirement for you to follow a current conservation plan to stay in compliance with the Food Security Act. This is also true for any expiring CRP, especially if the producer chooses to break out the permanent vegetation and start cropping the land. In the big scheme of things,

for all their hard work and dedication to the land.

it is always a good thing to remember where we have come from and where we are going. Your local NRCS office is eager to assist you in your conservation needs, so please stop by or call to make an appointment to start the process today. Thank you! I would like to leave you with one last quote from Hugh Hammond Bennett; “What a frightful lack of foresight, and what terribly false economy it would be, if we did not go ahead with the soil conservation job!” (“Soil Conservation in the World Ahead.” Journal of Soil and Water Conservation 2 (January 1947): 43-50.) USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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A Kansas NRCS Conservation Innovation Grant could be the answer USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) reminds potential applicants that the cut-off date for submitting applications for the Conservation Innovation Grant (CIG) program is March 15, 2017. The availability of funds for the Kansas CIG was posted at www.grants.gov January 12, 2017. NRCS will award up to $50,000 in matching funds per project. Projects can be a single year or multi-year project (up to three years). Prior project awards have ranged from a few thousand dollars up to the $50,000 limit. For 2017, NRCS has set aside $200,000 to fund Kansas projects.

“The powerful thing about this program is it can leverage dollars and expertise from multiple sources,” said Eric Banks, Kansas State Conservationist. “For example, under this program, a non-profit could partner with a local or state agency or university, so together, they can fund half of the project and then get matching funds from Kansas NRCS. Or an individual entity may submit an application for matching funds from NRCS. The goal of CIG is to put more conservation innovations in the hands of farmers and ranchers by using the resources and expertise we have in Kansas.” The project’s matching contribution does not need to

be money. It can be in-kind matching, such as the dollar equivalent salary the applicant is contributing to the project. Eligible applicants are non-governmental entities, state and local government units, individuals, and American Indian tribes. The CIG program requires the applicant to match the federal dollar award with dollars or an in-kind contribution to the project. Discussing how important innovation is to conservation, Eric said, “When you think about it, everything we see today started out as just a thought, an idea, in someone’s mind. Things like practices to conserve water, tools

to allow producers to apply precision conservation practices in their operations, or techniques to reduce nutrient run-off began as an idea. My hope is that NRCS, along with partners, can bring great ideas to market for the benefit of all farmers and ranchers. For more information, visit the Kansas NRCS Web site www.ks.nrcs.usda. gov/programs or your local U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Service Center. To find a service center near you, check on the Internet at offices.usda.gov. Follow us on Twitter @NRCS_Kansas. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

By Karri Honaker, NRCS, Resource Conservationist, Hays, Kansas The sixth-eighth session of the United Nations announced 2015 to be the “International Year of Soils.” The topic of soil importance has been gaining momentum for several years now and it doesn't look like it will be slowing down anytime soon. So why all the fuss? Everyone eats don't they? Take a moment to contemplate how agriculture touches your life. Without the soil, there would be no agriculture and that means, no you! It doesn't take long to figure out that soil is the basis of everything

we do, especially here in Kansas with agriculture being one of the top industries in the state. Now that everyone is becoming more familiar with soils and why they are so important, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) would like to focus more specifically on soil health. The Kansas NRCS has launched a soil health campaign to bring this message home. In order to fully support the soil health campaign, NRCS employees throughout Kansas have jumped on board and have carried out several soil health strategies to enhance the soil

health message. One of those strategies is looking at soil health indicators in soil tests. The four soil health tests include aggregate stability, active carbon, CO2 burst method, and the solvita SLAN (Soil Labile Amino Nitrogen) tests. The aggregate stability test runs the soil through a series of tests that will determine the extent to which soil aggregates resist falling apart when moistened. Active carbon tests determine what fraction of the soil organic matter is readily available as an energy source. Microbial activity in the soil gives off carbon dioxide which is measured after drying and re-wetting the soil in the CO2 burst method test. The SLAN test measures the available organic nitrogen. Sample depth range from 0-2 inches and 2-6 inches and are a composite of 5-15 sub samples per acre. In order to completely interpret the tests, information such as cropping history for the previous two years is needed, along with soil maps of the property and global positioning system (GPS) points of where the samples were taken. These specific tests will allow us to gain knowledge on just how

healthy the soils in Kansas are and what we can do to continue to improve soil health throughout the state. Please contact your local NRCS office or conservation district office located at your local county U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Service Center (listed in the telephone book under United States Government or on the internet at www.offices. usda.gov for assistance. More information is also available on the Kansas Web site at www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov. Follow us on Twitter @NRCS__Kansas. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

We salute our area farmers and agriculture industry for their contributions to our local and national communities

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Congratulations Stevens County Windbreak, Soil Conservation and Wildlife Habitat Award Winners

Thanks for all your hard work and effort

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The Hugoton Hermes

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Page 8C

Nola Walker NRCS-Soil Technician

Keri Morris NRCS-Supervisor District Conservationist

M’Lynn Swartz District Manager, SCCD

Stevens County Board, left to right: Supervisor Luke Grubbs, Treasurer Seth Gillespie, Chairman Tron Stegman, Supervisor Tom Lahey and Vice-Chairman Loren Seaman. The Stevens County Conservation District Board would like to invite you to be our guest at

the 67th Annual Appreciation Banquet and Annual Meeting. A detailed accounting of what we do and who we serve will be provided at the meeting. In addition, we will also be presenting awards to those who have gone above and beyond in their conservation efforts.

CONSERVE the LAND in STEVENS COUNTY

It’s The Heart Of Your Future!

The Stevens County Conservation Stewards Are... Chairman of the Board - TRON STEGMAN • Vice Chairman - LOREN SEAMAN Treasurer - SETH GILLESPIE • Supervisor - LUKE GRUBBS • Supervisor - TOM LAHEY District Manager -M’Lynn Swartz NRCS-Supervisory District Conservationist - KERI MORRIS Soil Technician - NOLA WALKER

HISTORY OF THE SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT Your Conservation District, an organization of the people by the people and for the people, was formed in 1949 from legislation passed by the 74th Congress in 1935. This law enabled people interested in their natural resources to form Conservation Districts and seek assistance in applying the proper conservation practices. Your District has five men who form a Board of Supervisors. All are elected at annual meetings. This Board of Supervisors is required to prepare an annual work plan and an annual report to the State Conservation Commission and the Secretary of Agriculture. The work plan recognizes the depletion of our natural resources of soil, water, plants and animals. The plan points out what the Board hopes to do about the depletion.

Through the Memorandum of understanding with the Secretary of Agriculture and the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), available technicians are assigned to the District to assist in carrying out the plan of operations. Farmers or ranchers in the District apply to the District for assistance in solving their conservation problems. With the technician’s assistance a plan is prepared containing an inventory of their resources, the conservation problems involved with recommended solutions or alternative solutions. With the technician’s assistance the land owner then proceeds in an orderly manner in applying their conservation practices on their farms. The Board does not have any taxing powers, so they must

rely on other sources for money to carry on their activities. They may levy assessments on their members, sell conservation materials or services or may receive money from the County Commissioners. They carry on an education program for all people of the county, assist in demonstrations and tours and attend meetings on an area and state basis as well as their monthly meeting. They do not receive any pay for their time but do receive expenses when attending area and state meetings. They furnish secretarial assistance to the technicians assigned to the district thus giving them more time for planning and applying conservation plans with their members.

Stevens County Stewards - Past and Present A.E. Lahey Merle Peachey Earl Peachey Lester Bunyon Robert Packer Paul Sundgren Sam Bozone Milton Porter Ross Teeter Carl Brollier Frank Thomas Laurence Brower Tom Bentley James R. Kapp Dean Roehr Wilbur White Gerald Schmidt

1949-1951 1949-1957 1949-1959 1949-1955 1949-1967 1951-1957 1956-1962 1958-1962 1958-1969 1960-1962 1963-1968 1961-1966 1963-1969 1967-1968 1968-1970 1969-1994 1969-1977

John Ertz Robert Hamilton Darrell Skinner Clovis Brewer Everett Burrows Robert Parsons Richard Claggett Lewis Wheeler Warren Moon Richard James Jack Hamlin Doug Flummerfelt Keith Rome Edward White Milton Gillespie Dell Cullison Gary Norton

1970-1975 1970-1976 1971-1979 1977-1981 1976-1978 1978-1989 1979-1988 1980-1985 1981-1989 1986-1994 1988-1993 1990-1995 1990-1995 1994-2000 1994-1997 1995-1996 1995-1998

Mike Willis Kay Murray Joe D. Thompson Jeff Newlon Wilbur Kinser Rick Hamlin James Murray Joel McClure Tron Stegman Ryan Hamlin Loren Seaman Alan Stoddard Seth Gillespie Luke Grubbs Tom Lahey

1996-1999 1996-1999 1997-2006 1998-2001 1999-2008 1999-2002 2000-2004 2001-2009 2002-2017 2004-2013 2006-Present 2008-2011 2010-Present 2011-Present 2013-Present

We Salute The Stevens County Conservation District and NRCS For Their Conservation Work! CONGRATULATIONS!

Bartlett Grain Company, L.P.

Loren Seaman Gerry Deckman Ron Honig Travis Cermak Scott Schechter

Soil Conservation Award Winners Thank You For Saving Our Soil

Seaman

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