December 29, 2016

The

Hugoton

Hermes

Whether 2016 was good, bad or neutral for you, everyone can agree it certainly wasn’t boring!

The year was chock full of news for the Stevens County community, and The Hermes has been there all along! Following is a rundown of 2016 for the area.

In January, A.J. Madsen was selected to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City, and HHS quarterback Tino Degollado was recognized by the Garden City Telegram with several awards for his prowess on the football field. Stevens County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Officer Kleio found 123 pounds of marijuana during a traffic stop. The Hugoton Airport received over $63,000 for their runway resurfacing project - representing 90% of the total cost - from a KDOT grant. Best Western Stevens County Inn opened their doors Monday, January 18, 2016. At the January school board meeting, members discussed the HVAC needs at the elementary school.

Hugoton’s 2016 winter Homecoming court was ruled over by King Hunter Kerbow and Queen Keely Hittle. Sydney Beesley won the senior division at the Pancake Day talent contest with her rendition of “Let It Go”. Then, Hugoton’s Judy Lynch won first in the Pancake Day race in

her division! Miss Kansas Hannah Wagner visited HES in February, and Richard Claggett won the 2015 Community Service award at the annual Conservation Banquet. Rolla’s Scholars Bowl team earned a trip to State, where they won the State Championship crown, marking the twelfth time in 24 years! In the February 18 issue, Jeff and Diane Crawford graced the front page after being named 2016 Sweetheart Sweepstakes winners.

Several members of Moscow High’s Forensics team earned a trip to State Forensics, where Freddy and JJ Gonzalez won first in Improvised Duet Acting.

Pedro Ordonez and Alfredo Luna also traveled to Salina for State wrestling.

Pedro ended up with third place. HHS senior Carly Martin also got to compete in State Piano at Wichita State University after earning a I in Regional competition.

The 2016 Presidential race took over the airwaves for months, and the Kansas Republican Caucus took place in Ulysses March 5, while the Democratic Caucus was in Garden City the same day.

The high school NHS chapter’s annual Mr. HHS contest was in March, and Hunter Kerbow won the crown. First prince went to Austin Nordyke, Ethan Bogan won second prince

and Mark Persinger won Mr. Congeniality. After 65 years of difficult waiting, the HHS boys’ basketball team earned a trip to the State tournament, along with the girls’ team. The boys won second in their first State appearance since 1951, and the girls ended up third. Catie LeNeve was chosen to compete in the Miss Kansas pageant after winning Miss Midwest, February 20, at Baser.

At the March 7 Commisisoners’ meeting, the price of natural gas was discussed, as it stood at $1.60 - the lowest price in 100 years and not-sogreat news for Stevens County’s valuation.

Florence Metcalf was named to Southwestern College “Educators Hall of Fame” in March, after 27 years of service as the Family and Consumer Sciences teacher at Hugoton Middle School.

Mrs. Metcalf retired in 1999. At the March meeting of the Chamber board, Alisha Owens was introduced as the new Chamber director.

Stevens County volunteer firefighters Rodney Kelling, Bailey Esarey, Greg Sohm and Mike Milhon traveled to battle the largest fire in Kansas’ history in March. The fire blazed through 300,000 acres in Barber and Comanche counties. The Kiwanis hosted their forty-ninth annual auction March 25-26.

The “Wilburton Fire” consumes a Morton County home in April 2016.

Hugoton High School seniors commemorate the end of their high school careers with balloons and confetti during the ceremony May 14, 2016 at the HHS gym.

Mrs. Kerbow’s and Mrs. Sullivan’s Kindergarten classes belt out some Christmas classics during their caroling tour of Main

C.J. Korf was named the Class 4A Division II Coach of the Year by Sports in Kansas. Bill and Linda Hittle, along with their stallion Ratchett, were named to the American Paint Horse Associaiton’s Hall of Fame, and Moscow’s Martha Thompson was named the Silver Haired Legislature representative for Stevens

Street last Tuesday afternoon. The little ones visited a few businesses along Main Street to spread some holiday cheer.

County.

In April, Rolla’s Paige Claassen and Deserae Schwindt were named Overall Winners at the State Science Fair, earning a trip to the International Science Fair in Phoenix, Az. The Hugoton Area Chamber of Commerce recognized Larry Bradford with a Lifetime Achievement award at their banquet, and Dwain and Adena Towner were named Citizens of the Year.

Sheriff Ted Heaton and his deputies took their lives into their hands April 13 when a live grenade was discovered in a Moscow yard. The Kansas Highway Patrol Bomb Squad disposed of the grenade and thankfully, no one was hurt. Hugoton’s empty Abengoa facility provided the perfect site for the eighteenth annual Kansas Police Dog Association Recertification event in April.

Moscow High School seniors graduated May 1.

Valedictorian was Madison Owens, and Salutatorian was Vance Thompson. Doug and Rita Mills were awarded the Friend of 2016 4-H, and The Hermes raked in 15 accolades at the annual Kansas Press Association convention, as well as the Advertising Sweepstakes award.

Seniors of Rolla High School attended their graduation May 14.

Chandler Burrows was the Valedictorian while William Norton was named the Salutatorian.

Alex Pierson received recognition as an Eagle Scout with a special ceremony April 30. Super Mom 2016 was announced as Wendy Coats, wife of Ben Coats and mother to Madison and Ashley. The Stevens County Emergency Medical Services hosted a Night Out at the City Park May 17, complete with vehicles to explore and great food.

Hugoton High School hosted their graduation May 14, with six Valedictorians: Carly Hittle, Sarah Johnson, Zack Littell, Mark Persinger and Parker Titus. HHS seniors earned over $90,000 in scholarships. HES student Katie Loewen earned 1000 Accelerated Reader points, and served as HES principal for half a day, and USD 210 Superintendent for the other half of the day.

May 26, 15 HHS tracksters and two MHS tracksters earned the privilege of competing at the State track meet. At State track, the HHS boys finished eighth as a team, with the 4x800 meter relay team winning second. Stevens County Relay for Life

Thursday, December 29, 2016 Volume 129, Number 52 12 pages, 69 cents plus tax per copy

Countless bikes and their riders proceed down Main Street as they head out during the Brian Lamberson Memorial Motorcycle Rally in June 2016. hosted a “Bark for Life” event May 21 with several contests and a talent show. Hugoton’s FFA chapter traveled to Manhattan in June to attend the State FFA Convention, and Austin Nordyke was recognized as a State Star in Agribusiness.

June 11 was the annual Brian Lamberson Memorial Bike Rally, hosting hundreds of motorcycles and their riders. Commissioner Joe D. Thompson hosted a Commissioner Coffee June 11 to talk about county budgets with residents, and Commissioner Pat Hall met with senior citizens June 23 to illuminate county issues.

Floyd Knox was recognized as 2016 Super Dad at Thrifty King for Father’s Day. Thrifty King and High Plains Music Fest were both honored with awards from the Kansas Department of Commerce: Thrifty King with a business appreciation award, and Music Fest for nonprofit.

The USD 210 Board of Education learned at their June meeting that Hugoton had dropped the most in valuation per pupil in the area. They discussed cost savings at the same meeting.

Teachers at USD 210 greeted their new students at a “Teacher Reveal Swim Party” at the Hugoton Pool June 30. Hugoton hosted their annual Park Day celebration July 4, complete with activities, vendors

and the Rotary’s Duck Race. Stevens County Storm Chasers were named 13U Blue Bracket NBC State Champions during their tournament July 8-10. Stevens County Economic Development also announced in July the EcoDevo director position will be eliminated to save the county some money. Community members turned out in force at commissioners’ meetings in July to show their support for the Stevens County Fitness Center.

They were reassured the Center will remain open through 2017.

Richard and Sally Claggett were named the Pioneer King and Queen during the Stevens County Fair at the end of July, and Sydney Beesley reigned over the Fair as Sorghum Queen. Stevens County Fair participants received mountains of ribbons throughout the week of July 21-30. Kansans voted in the primary election Tuesday, August 2.

Area students returned to school during the month of August.

Relay for Life hosted their annual event in the Hugoton High School parking lot, and boasted fundraising efforts netting over $60,000 for 2016.

Katy Heger, her mother Stephanie and her grandmother Barb Morris traveled to Italy so Katy could play basketball with America’s Team. The three Continued to page 3

Local Veterans are recognized during USD 210’s Vets Day assembly Friday, November 11, 2016. Students honored the Veterans by singing and giving out handmade gifts.

Christmas Day dawned clear but BLUSTERY! Wind prevailed throughout most of the holiday, knocking down branches and even some of the city’s power for a couple of hours Sunday.

The Hugoton Hermes

December 29, 2016

Page 2

Obituaries

Mabel Walter Former Hugoton resident Mabel Victoria (Groves) Walter of Ulysses passed from this life Friday, December 23, 2016 at the age of 89.

Mrs. Walter was also a former Beaver, Ok. resident.

Born June 14, 1927 in Forgan, Ok., she was the daughter of the late John Raymond and Bonnie (Hodges) Groves.

Mabel was the sister of Clara Mae (Riggs) Carey of La Junta, Co., Pauline (Groves) Demetrious of Mesa, Az., the late Claydene (Groves) Herzog of Waverly, Tn., the late Jack Riggs, the late Rena (Groves) Burris and the late Merle R. Groves.

In her life, Mabel was a passionate artist, always

Warren Kraft

ready to dance, and was tough in the face of adversity, forever full of smiles and had the richest laughter.

Survivors include son Michael Walter and wife Marilyn of Wichita; her granddaughter Christina Walter of Washington, D.C.; grandson Bryce Walter and wife Morgan of Wichita; and great granddaughter Charlotte Walter of Wichita; her sisters, Clara Mae and Pauline; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Shelton Memorial Christian Church of Ulysses or Good Shepherd Hospice Care of Wichita.

The death of Warren Allen Kraft has been learned. Mr. Kraft, 79, passed away Saturday, December 24, 2016 at Morton County Health System in Elkhart.

Born March 28, 1937 at Garden City, he was the son of Arlie Wesley Kraft and the former Lena Faye Schull.

November 24, 1955, Warren and Rose Emma Miller were married in Lakin.

Survivors include his daughter Arleen Clinesmith and husband Rusty of Rolla; son Wade Kraft and wife Rhonda of Liberty, Mo.; his brother Gary Kraft of Waverly, Ne.; four grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and many other

relatives and friends.

Mr. Kraft was preceded in death by his parents; wife Rose Emma Kraft; and granddaughter Candace Kraft.

Graveside services were attended Tuesday afternoon, December 27 at the Rolla Cemetery. Paul’s - Robson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

A memorial has been established for Rolla Hope.

Memorials may be mailed to Paul’s - Robson Funeral Home, PO Box 236, Hugoton, Ks. 67951.

Consumer Alert Family insurance conversations encouraged during the holidays tions with your family.

Know where insurance and legal papers are. Policies, phone numbers, financial statements and legal documents such as Power of Attorney and home inventory checklists should all be in a safe deposit box at your financial institution or in a fire-proof location within the home.

Know what medications are taken. Kinds, dosage, frequency, use of generics, pharmacy information — all are important to share with close family members.

Know about the condition of family vehicles. Are they sound mechanically, serviced regularly, stocked accordingly with travel necessities?

Know what your teenagers and young adults

are concerned about. Getting them to open up might be hard, but they could have questions about life situations and insurance that are important to them and to you.

Know a qualified insurance professional and financial adviser, and let him/her assess your insurance needs. Just like the generations of your family, insurance needs change.

Know when insurance premiums are due - yearly, semiannually, quarterly or monthly. Keep them on a centrally-located calendar.

This idea can be truly helpful for a single adult, a young family or empty nesters on a fixed income.

Know, in the case of older family members, what their health insurance poli-

cies contain and what their medical preferences are for providers and institutions.

“Discussions about these points during holiday gatherings can have a positive impact on finances and insurance needs,” Commissioner Selzer said, “Whatever your life stage, it’s a comfort to know that trusted family members and financial advisers can assist you if you need it.”

The Kansas Insurance Department, established in 1871, assists and educates consumers, regulates and reviews companies, and licenses agents selling insurance products in the state. More about the department is online at www.ksin surance.org or at www.face book.com/kansasinsur ancedepartment.

HUGOTON POLICE REPORT 405 E. Fourth • Hugoton

Business Hours, Call 544-4959 • After Hours, Call 544-2020 Monday, December 19, 2016 • Motorist assist, 700 Block of East Sixth, Public Service, Officer Crane • Funeral Escort, 300 Block of South Van Buren, Public Service, Officer Crane • Vehicle Unlock, 1100 Block of South Madison, Public Service, Officer Lamatsch Tuesday, December 20, 2016 • Returned Dog to owner, 1601 South Washington, Public Service, Officer Crane • Vehicle Unlock, 1700 Block of South Main, Citizen Assist, Officer Crane Wednesday, December 21, 2016

• Suspicious Vehicle, 1000 Block of South Main, All Okay, Officer Fedelin • Vehicle Unlock, 400 Block of South Harrison, Citizen Assist, Officer Fedelin Thursday, December 22, 2016 • 911 Hang up, 900 Block of South Jefferson, All Okay, Officer Crane • Welfare Check, 1000 Block of South Coulter, All Okay, Officer Crane • Dog at Large, 1000 Block of South Washington, Unable to locate, Sergeant Johnson • Returned Dog to owner, 1012 South Trindle, Public Service, Officer Hagman Friday, December 23, 2016

• Water Main Break, Third and Van Buren, Notified the City, Officer Crane • Welfare Check, 300 Block of North Eighth, Officer Crane • Dog at Large, 1000 Block of South Washington, Dog Impounded, Officer Crane • Vehicle Unlock, 500 Block of South Jackson, Citizen Assist, Officer Crane • Water Main Break, Third and Van Buren, Notified the City, Officer Crane • Civil Stand By, 200 Block of North Jackson, Public Service, Sergeant Johnson Saturday, December 24, 2016 • Vehicle Unlock, 500 Block of East

Insight When I think about the perils associated with winter travel, I think about my dad’s simple, but sound advice, “Stay off the roads.”

Dad had lived by this creed for more than 80 years in northwestern Kansas.

He’d seen his share of blowing and drifting snow. When he talked about western Kansas blizzards, the years of ’31 and ’57 were singled out.

The ’31 blizzard hit on April Fool’s Day and killed hundreds of cattle. One of Dad’s neighbors lost 80 head of cattle in a pasture less than a quarter mile west of their small community of Seguin.

I was just a youngster, but I remember the blizzard of ’57. Snow drifted as high as the roof on my friend, Vernon Rietcheck’s two-story home. We sledded down the drifts and played in the snow all day.

Our parents weren’t as lucky. There were roads to open and cattle to feed and water. Our homes were without electricity for five days.

My father and those hearty souls who lived on the High Plains learned from these storms. He learned to travel only when necessary – to feed, water and care for his livestock. He never traveled anywhere in his pickup without several pairs of gloves, a scoop shovel, a log chain and chains for the rear tires.

Dad always wore a cap with ear pro-

Dad was right tection and carried a couple extra on the front seat of his pickup in the winter. The trunk of our car also had extras. He knew a person couldn’t last long outside in freezing weather with all of your body heat escaping through the top of a bare head.

If we traveled anywhere during the winter months, the trunk of the family car was always packed with extra warm clothes, blankets, overalls, gloves, a flashlight, fresh batteries, chains and a shovel to clear the snow from in front of the tires.

Dad had been stuck in snow before.

He’d heard of, and known of, people who were stranded and froze to death in some of the fierce northwestern Kansas blizzards. Before every winter season began, and often throughout, he’d remind us of these stories.

My father always topped off his fuel tanks for winter travel. He believed a full tank provided extra weight on the rear wheels.

“It runs better on the top half (of the tank),” he always said.

Although Dad never carried sand bags in the back of his car or trucks, he did carry extra weight during the winter. He always lugged around tractor tire weights while some of his neighbors preferred sand and sprinkled the gritty stuff in front of their tires for extra traction in snow and ice.

Longtime Hugoton resident Gloria G. Lewis passed from this life Friday, December 23, 2016 at Pioneer Manor of Hugoton.

She was 91.

The daughter of Elmer Schwab and Flossie Strausberger, Gloria was born March 3, 1925 at Franklin Township, Pa. June 7, 1945, she and Dean Edward Lewis Sr. were married in Baltimore, Md. Mrs. Lewis was a member of the United Methodist Church of Hugoton.

Survivors include her son Dean Lewis Jr. and wife Jackie of Hugoton; two daughters, Cindy Kilbourn and husband Lewis of Denver, Co. and Janet Campbell and husband Jerry of Emporia; her nine grandchildren;

15 great grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents; husband Dean; and four sisters, Betty Schoenberger, Arlene Miller, Mildred Walck and Dolly Berger.

Funeral services were attended Tuesday morning, December 27 at the United Methodist Church of Hugoton. Burial followed at Hugoton Cemetery with Rev. Rebecca Davison presiding.

Paul’s - Robson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

A memorial has been established for the United Methodist Church. Memorials may be mailed to Paul’sRobson Funeral Home, PO Box 236, Hugoton, Ks 67951.

Geneva Ray

From the Kansas Insurance Department & Kansas Insurance Commissioner Ken Selzer

The Christmas and New Year’s holidays are family times filled with reminiscences. But when family gathers, they can also be times to have good conversations about how to protect and insure families and their property, according to Ken Selzer, CPA, Kansas Commissioner of Insurance.

“Focusing on family and property insurance considerations can be beneficial during the holiday season,” Commissioner Selzer said.

“With close relatives on hand, those conversations about how to protect your loved ones and your property are valuable.”

Commissioner Selzer and the staff at the Kansas Insurance Department offer the following ideas for insurance discussions and considera-

Gloria Lewis

Fifth, Citizen Assist, Officer Crane • Vehicle Unlock, 900 Block of South Coulter, Citizen Assist, Officer Crane • Dogs at Large, 1200 Block of South Adams, Unable to Locate, Officer Crane • Dog at Large, Tenth and Jackson, Owner Caught, Officer Crane • Theft, 500 Block of South Adams, Took Report, Officer Crane Sunday, December 25, 2016 • Vehicle Unlock, 900 Block of West City Limits, Officer Assist, Officer Fedelin

By John Schlageck, Senior Editor/Writer, Kansas Farm Bureau If someone absolutely had to go out during a winter storm, Dad preached extra time and patience. If you’re frightened or overly concerned about weather conditions – don’t drive. Wait the storm out.

Remember, it takes a while to find your “driving legs” each new winter season, he’d say.

Relax. Sit back in the seat. From time to time take deep breaths. Don’t grip the wheel until your knuckles turn white.

Try to anticipate what other drivers intend to do. Let them speed, spin, slip and slide. Allow at least twice as long to reach your destination. Concentrate on the road ahead, behind and on your right and left.

While driving during hazardous weather brings out the worst in some drivers, it can also bring out the best in others. Some welcome the chance to brave the elements. To drive safely under such conditions can provide a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment.

Drive safely and know your limitations. Remember, if you must take a chance that could result in an accident or worse, “Stay off the road.”

John Schlageck is a leading commentator on agriculture and rural Kansas. Born and raised on a diversified farm in northwestern Kansas, his writing reflects a lifetime of experience, knowledge and passion.

Friends and family gathered this week to remember and honor Geneva Maurine Ray. Mrs. Ray of Hooker, Ok. passed from this life Monday, December 19, 2016 at Dunaway Manor in Guymon, Ok. at the age of 94.

The youngest of ten children, Geneva was born October 24, 1922, the daughter of Daniel and Bertha Hampsten on the family farm north of Hooker. Arriving from Illinois in 1905, Daniel and Bertha had homesteaded north of Hooker.

Geneva graduated with the Class of 1940 from Hooker High School. After graduation, she and her classmates embarked on a senior trip to Juarez, Mexico, traveling in the back of a grain truck and camping along the way.

Though Geneva had secured finances to attend Panhandle Agricultural College (now OPSU), her smoothtalking beau convinced her his money would be better invested in a marriage than in gas money used to visit her on campus. So began their love story.

Harold and Geneva were united in marriage October 26, 1940 in Garden City.

They had six children: Alan, Steven, Ann, and triplets Jean, Jane and Janet.

Geneva loved spending time with her family and her church family. She also loved to travel, holding Colorado and Arizona especially near to her heart. She and her husband loved to vacation

with friends and family and spent much of their time traveling throughout the country with mission work.

Mrs. Ray is preceded in death by her husband Harold; daughters Jean, Jane and Janet; her brothers, Roy, Cecil, Floyd, Lester and Otis; her sisters, Essie Hoobler, Stella Griffin, Sadie Nash and Bessie Herald; and daughter-in-law Donna Ray. Survivors include her sons, Alan and wife Val of Oklahoma City, Ok. and Steven of Hooker; daughter Ann and husband Mike Peacock of Guymon; her grandchildren, Chris and Chandy Ray of Oklahoma City, Tina and Scott Schechter of Hugoton, David and Valerie Ray of Hooker, Elizabeth and Tanner Brown of Guymon, Alison and Tim Marci of Norman, Ok., Becca Peacock of Norman and Jared Grimes of Norman; great-grandchildren, Callie and Cael Ray, Ashlyn and Carson Schechter, Mackenzie, Madison, Hunter and Hudsen Ray and soon Madelyn Marci.

Funeral services were attended Monday afternoon, December 26 at the Hooker Church of Christ with Lance Morrisett officiating. Interment followed in the Hooker Cemetery directed by Roberts Brothers Funeral Home of Hooker.

Memorials are suggested to the Hooker Church of Christ and may be left at Roberts Brothers Funeral Home, Box 745, Hooker, Ok. 73945.

Billie Jean House Death has claimed the life of Billie Jean House. Mrs. House, 85, passed away December 20, 2016 at Ness County Hospital in Ness City.

She was born July 22, 1931 at Hayne, the daughter of Bert Dodd and the former Flora Rhiness.

June 29, 1947, Billie married Bill E. House at Hugoton. He preceeded her in death February 13, 2012.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; son-inlaw Rick Tilgner; three brothers, Roy Smith, Bob Dodd and Tom Dodd; and two sisters, Leona Bullard and Audrey Jarvis.

An Assistant Manager with Western Power, Billie retired in 1993.

Mrs. House was a member of First Baptist Church in Liberal.

Formerly Billie had participated in bowling leagues and volunteered at Southwest Medical Center.

Survivors include her three daughters, Jan Shank and husband Harold of Hanston, Jerri Rook and husband Ron of Prescott, Az.

and Jacque Tilgner of Derby; six grandchildren, Corey Powell, Stacie Powell, Katie Ruff, Brad Shank, Rian Tilgner and Riki Donner; and nine great grandchildren.

Memorial services were attended Wednesday afternoon, December 28 at Brenneman Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Rex Petty presiding. Private inurnment of cremains will be at Restlawn Cemetery of Liberal.

In lieu of flowers and plants, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Bazine in care of Brenneman Funeral Home, 1212 West Second, Liberal, Ks. 67901.

The Hugoton Hermes

December 29, 2016

Page 3

Continued from page 1 ladies also did a little sightseeing and taste testing during their trip. EcoDevo members considered subcommittees to take over Director Neal Gillespie’s duties in the future.

August 27, the Gas Capital Car Club hosted the twenty-fifth annual Car, Truck and Bike Show at the City Park. City crews completed work on two community projects in August: Safe Routes to School along Jackson and Sixth Streets, and the Hike and Bike Trail at Raydene Park. The Fall Fling Craft Show took place at Eagle RV Park September 10.

Local music lovers were delighted with the 2016 High Plains Music Fest later that evening, featuring Casey Donahew, Claire Dunn, Mike Ryan and Chance Anderson.

The event raised funds for local charities.

County commissioners and Stevens County Hospital board members met together at Pioneer Manor to discuss the county’s shrinking budgets. Stevens County Healthcare hosted their annual Free Health Fair October 1 at the HHS cafeteria.

HHS fall 2016 Homecoming King and Queen were Romano Burger and Melissa Fabela. The FFA chapter at HHS swept the Southwest District dairy cattle judging, winning first with the senior team, junior team and eighth

grade team. Hugoton golfers Mary Weaver and Brionna Beard delivered strong performances at Regional competition, earning a trip to State Golf October 17 in Garden City. The honors just kept on coming for Hugoton students, as Kayleigh Flores won the “Put the Brakes on Fatalities” poster contest for the second year in a row, and HHS cross country boys’ and girls’ teams won their State meet!

My Father’s House stepped up in the fall, to fill the need of transportation for local folks, with their Angel Express van. Voters headed to the polls November 8 to elect numerous national, state and local offices. USD 210 students hosted a moving Veterans Day celebration at the West Gym Friday, November 11, featuring songs, readings and recognition for local Veterans.

Pheasant Heaven Charities, Inc. hosted their annual Calf Fry, Beef Feed and Pork Roast at Southwest Fresh Potato November 11. PHCI raises money to help locals with medical bills, scholarships and other needs. HHS students performed “High School Musical” November 12-13. HHS graduate Trisha Stan was named to the Amgen Foundation’s “Ten to Watch” list in November.

Hugoton Lions recognized their Peace Poster contest

winners in November, including first place Tobias Grubbs, second place Ella Beesley and third place Alaina Gold.

The community was rocked with the passing of longtime Stevens County Emergency Manager Mike Schechter November 26, 2016. Mike will be remembered for his smile and generous spirit. He served as a firefighter for 42 years. The local Santa Committee hosted Community Caroling the Friday after Thanksgiving, and then a visit from the big man himself December 3.

Stevens County EcoDevo hosted a Strategic Plan meeting for young businesspeople December 1, to talk about future opportunities. The long-awaited purchase of the Abengoa facility by Synata Bio was announced in December, who plans to use a slightly-altered process to produce ethanol using natural gas.

M’Lynn Swartz was introduced to the community as the new Stevens County Conservation District Manager.

HHS Coach Nick Rodriguez was named Fall Coach of the Year by the Garden City Telegram, and the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams swept the Blue and Red Classic tournament December 8-10.

What a year! Here’s hoping 2017 is full of happiness and great memories!

AL-ANON Family Group meets at 1405 Cemetery Road Mondays and Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. Call 620544-2610 or 620-544-2854 for more information.

HUGOTON LIONS CLUB meets every Second and Fourth Thursday of the month at Memorial Hall at 7:00 p.m.

HUGOTON MASONIC LODGE #406 AF&AM meets every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

MY HOPE Support Group for any adult grieving the death of a loved one meets the second Tuesday of each month from noon to 1:00 p.m. at High Plains Public Radio, 210 N. Seventh in Garden. Call 620272-2519 for more information.

BREAST FRIENDS CANCER SUPPORT GROUP for breast cancer patients meets the second Wednesday of each month from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Legacy House, at 309 E. Walnut in Garden City. For more information call 620272-2360.

Every Sunday - Pioneer Manor will host a church service in the chapel at 3:00 p.m. Various local preachers will present . Coffee Shop Social Time will follow at 3:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to come.

Every Monday - DivorceCare, a special help seminar and support group for people experiencing divorce and separation: Meets at My Father’s House in Hugoton each Monday at

7:00 p.m. The church is located at 207 East Sixth. To contact us if you have any questions or would like more information call 620-5442849.

Every Friday - Pioneer Manor Men’s Group 10:00 a.m. Everyone is invited to come for the Men’s Group and drink coffee with residents.

Every fourth Tuesday - Free blood pressure checks are provided at the Senior Center every fourth Tuesday of the month from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon.

Wednesday nights - Inside Out Kids at the Hugoton Assembly of God, 138 S. Main, beginning with dinner at 6:45 p.m. Program will be from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Rides are available by calling Pastor Ben Coats at 620-4281487 before 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday evenings.

December 22-January 2 - Christmas Break for USD 210 students January 1 - Happy New Year!

January 3 - Stevens County Commissioners will meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Courthouse.

January 9 - Hugoton City Council will meet at 5:15 p.m. in the Council Meeting Room.

- Stevens County Hospital Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. in the Community Room in the basement of the hospital.

- Hugoton Airport Board will meet at 7:00 p.m.

What’s Happenin’

PUBLIC NOTICE (First published in The Hugoton Hermes, Thursday, December 22, 2016)3t IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF STEVENS COUNTY, KANSAS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PATRICK N. CRUTH, DECEASED (Petition Pursuant to K.S.A. Chapter 59) Case No. 2016 PR - 000045 NOTICE OF HEARING AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE STATE OF KANSAS TO ALL PERSONS CONCERNED: You are notified that on December 15, 2016, a petition was filed in this Court by Martha L. Cruth, heir of the estate of Patrick N. Cruth, deceased, requesting petitioner be appointed as Administrator, without bond; and petitioner be granted Letters of Administration.

You are required to file your writ-

ten defenses to the petition on or before on Friday, January 13, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. in the District Court, Hugoton, Stevens County, Kansas, at which time and place the cause will be heard. Should you fail to file your written defenses, judgment and decree will be entered in due course upon the petition.

All creditors are notified to exhibit their demands against the Estate within the latter of four months from the date of first publication of notice under K.S.A. 59-2236 and amendments thereto, or if the identity of the creditor is known or reasonably ascertainable, 30 days after actual notice was given as provided by law, and if their demands are not thus exhibited, they shall be forever barred. /s/ Gabe Hubbard Gabe Hubbard, #24760 Graber & Johnson Law Group, LLC 701 Vilymaca, PO Box 450 Elkhart, KS 67950 P (620) 697-2163 F (620) 697-2165 Attorneys for Petitioner

APPLICATIONS OF AGRICULTURAL CHEMICALS, SEEDING AND FERTILIZING

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

598-2356

Hugoton location 1114 Road A

428-6086

Mrs. Nordyke’s classes show what their money buys. The classes collected $738 to send to Gospel of Asia to help families. The classes

collected enough to purchase a “barn yard” and two Biosand water filters for families in need.

Mrs. Nordyke’s classes raise $738 for Gospel of Asia Did you know there are millions of children around the world who are not able to go to school to get an education? Many of these children are not even able to have what Americans consider a “normal childhood”. They do not get to run and play or have fun. In other parts of the world, there are families who are not able to support their families and are forced to send their children off to work every day instead of sending them to school.

Children as young as four years old are expected to work and earn money, usually pennies a day, to help their family make ends meet.

It’s well known there are some kids who take their education for granted and would love to not have to go to school, but there are so many children in this world who would give anything to be able to attend school for just one day.

Mrs. Nordyke’s classes have been studying about “Stolen Childhoods” this year, and they have learned children’s lives here in America are very privileged.

Learning about the lives of other children across the world has led them to want to make a difference for others.

Mrs. Nordyke’s classes researched two different organizations that help others. The students chose to collect money to send to Gospel for Asia. With the money the students collected, they will be helping families with a food source as well as animals to use as a source of income by growing and selling the animals or using their products. The class goal was to collect $400. With the help of each student in the classes and some other special helpers, they were able to collect $738 to purchase a “barn yard” and two Biosand water filters. This will include six chickens, two goats, one lamb, one cow and two pigs, along with the water filters.

A special appreciation goes to Hugoton Middle School Student Council, teachers, students, Hugoton Rotary Club, Hugoton Baptist

Church, EZ Access Self Storage, and Pollyannas for their help and support of this project. Along with helping others in Asia, the ultimate goal of this project was to teach young people about appreciating what they have and

learning to help others less fortunate than they are.

Finding compassion and empathy for others is such an important life lesson, and these students have embraced the lesson.

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620-428-6744 Have a Happy New Year!

The Hugoton Hermes

December 29, 2016

Page 4

“Notes From Nancy”

by Stevens County FACS Agent Nancy Honig

Seventh graders Ross Grewell and Itzel Figueroa and eighth graders Yaritza De La Rosa and Gerardo Rubio are named Middle School December Students of the Month. Photo courtesy of Morey Mecklenburg.

Dear Santa, I want for Christmas is a cat toy and a nrf gun, the elf nedes mory cookes and the chichicnna groneups.

Love, Xavier lelelelel

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Holiday Blues The holidays are almost over and suddenly you find yourself in a funk. The activities, the planning, the family get togethers are over, and now you can’t seem to get motivated to do anything.

Both before and after the holiday season there are those who find themselves depressed for a variety of reasons. How do you know if it is just the holiday blues or a more serious depressive disorder?

Comparing the holiday blues to a depressive disorder is like comparing a cold to pneumonia. Major depression can destroy the joy for living and make it impossible to focus on work and responsibilities. Individuals may experience hopelessness and depressive symptoms, such as sadness and tearfulness throughout the day.

Thoughts of death or suicide may enter their minds.

Depression is the world’s most common mental ailment, affecting approximately 16 percent of adults at some point in their lives. According to Robert Hales, chair of the UC Davis Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sci-

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Year-End Reflections

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David & Brandy Robson

314 S. Van Buren 544-4122

521 S. Main - Hugoton

Faith Publishing LLC 522 S. Main 620-544-4321

T

“Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.”

—Lamentations 3:40 NIV

he end of the year can be a trying time for many. The hustle and bustle of the holidays, together with the felt need to spend more money than one can afford adds stress to our lives. Amid all the noise and celebrations, one should take some time for quiet reflection at the end of every year. Where did we fall short this past year? Surely all of us have done things we wish we hadn’t and failed to do some things that we should have. Some of those things might be items on our personal or professional development checklists, but more importantly we should reflect on where we have failed morally and spiritually. Are we closer to God now than we were a year ago? Is our prayer life better than it was a year ago, and is our treatment of family, friends and co-workers better as well? Reflect on what went well in your moral and spiritual progress this past year, and try to redouble your efforts in the areas that might not have gone so well. Consider what you need to work on next year, and consider going about it in a systematic way. There are a lot of ways to work on our characters, and perhaps one of the best was Ben Franklin’s system, which he describes in his autobiography. Franklin sought to perfect thirteen different virtues, and he worked on each one for a week, allowing him to work through all thirteen virtues four times over the course of the year.

Christopher Simon

ences, stress-related events such as the holidays may trigger half of all depressive episodes.

There are various forms of anxiety. About ten million adults in the United States suffer from a generalized anxiety disorder, which is an excessive or unrealistic apprehension that causes physical symptoms and lasts for six months or longer.

Since the holidays may be a period where people experience increased depression or anxiety symptoms, it is important to recognize the signs of major depression. If, during or following the holidays, you experience a cluster of the following symptoms to such severity that they interfere with your normal relationships, it is important to seek help from your primary care physician or a mental health professional:

* Feeling depressed, sad and discouraged * Loss of interest in oncepleasurable and enjoyable activities * Eating more or less than usual, or unexplained gain or loss of weight * Having trouble sleeping, or sleeping more than usual * Feeling slow or restless * Lack of energy * Feeling hopeless, helpless, or inadequate * Difficulty concentrating * Difficulty thinking clearly or making decisions * Persistent thoughts of death or suicide * Withdrawal from others and lack of interest in sex * Various physical symptoms.

It is important to note that the use of antidepressants along with talk therapy can be very effective in dealing with depression.

No one wants to admit that they are

having a tough time coping with life, but dealing with our mental health is just as important as eating healthy, exercising and having physical wellness checks.

If you realized that you could not see well enough to function everyday would you avoid going to the eye doctor to get glasses because people would know that you can’t see well? More likely you would go to the eye doctor and get the glasses so that you could function and enjoy like. Dealing with depression is the same type of scenario, there is no shame in admitting you might need something to function better and enjoy life. If you or a loved one appear to be suffering with depression, make an appointment today to get help.

It will be your best decision for the new year.

MUSEUM UPDATE from The Stevens County Gas & Historical Museum Beulah Carter, Curator Stanley McGill and Billy Woodworth This history of Stevens County was written by Robert O. James, taken from issues of the Hugoton Herald and Hermes and magazines and a personal knowledge of same from five years residence during the early part of the settling of Stevens County in the State of Kansas. Provided by Curator Stanley McGill.

July 21, 1888 At early dawn, four level headed men left, two in a spring wagon and two on horseback to assist Robinson in getting home. If dead, they could bring his body in the spring wagon. They had been gone two days and one night, and then reports came that they were surrounded in a canyon and fighting for their lives. Armed men were leaving both towns until they were almost depopulated, 21 men in wagons and on horseback left for the scene in one crowd, the horsemen ahead for protection. They saw Ed Short and two of his men near Voorhees. Ed started east and the two men north toward Woodsdale.

The horsemen pursued Ed so close that he jumped from his tired horse, and forced a farmer to give him a fresh one. After he got the fresh horse, he dropped his silver

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.

mounted revolver that Woodsdale had presented him, (it had his name engraved on it) he was so frightened that he did not stop to pick it up, and the Hugoton men got it. He outwinded them and arrived in Springfield safe and sound. Many bold cowboys are brave with plenty of backing, but when the reverse comes, they do not all stand fire.

After Robinson stayed overnight at the ranch, he went back where he had left his wife and companions at Reed’s ranch on Goff Creek, and none were there. But he said that he saw a bunch of Woodsdale men at a distance, then he pulled for home and met most of the crowd that had scared Ed Short coming to assist him out of the claws of many that were known to be from Woodsdale looking for him. They met near the state line and went back looking for the first four men who were not yet heard of as to their safety.

Continued next week.

Beulah Carter, serving the Stevens County Gas and Historical Museum as assistant curator for 20 years and counting.

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.

Kansas Weekly Gas Prices Average retail gasoline prices in Kansas have risen 3.0 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.12 per gallon Sunday, according to GasBuddy's daily survey of 1,329 gas outlets in Kansas.

This compares with the national average that has increased 2.7 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.28 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 38.1 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 23.2 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 16.5 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 28.4 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

According to GasBuddy historical data, gasoline prices December 27 in Kansas have ranged widely over the last five years: $1.74 per gallon in 2015, $2.02 per gallon in 2014, $3.01 per gallon in 2013, $3.06 per gallon in 2012 and $3.05 per gallon in 2011.

Hugoton Gas Prices Tuesday, December 27 Thrifty King - $2.19 Toot n Totum - $2.17 Kangaroo Express - $2.19 Brown-Dupree - $2.24 Eagle’s Landing - $2.19

“While the benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude closed last week near $53 per barrel, it's doubtful that we'll see any momentum this week since trading is generally low volume between Christmas and New Year's Day. Similarly, expect the aggressive escalation that we saw for retail gasoline prices through much of December to stall out in the final week of the year," said Gregg Laskoski, senior petroleum analyst for GasBuddy.

"Overall, the national average price of gas is 28 cents higher than where it was a year ago on this day and prices in most metros and states across the country are higher too; with the remarkable exception being California whose statewide average today is 13 cents lower than last year and the Los Angeles' average, believe it or not, is 27 cents less than a year ago," Laskoski noted.

For LIVE fuel price averages, visit http://Fuel Insights.GasBuddy.com.

Happ y

New Year

from The Hermes

The Hugoton Hermes

December 29, 2016

Page 5

State Fire Marshal releases annual “Fires in Kansas” The Office of the State Fire Marshal has released its annual "Fires in Kansas" report based on reporting to the Kansas Fire Incident Reporting System by fire departments throughout the state.

The statistics presented in this annual report were for calendar year 2015. The report highlights the significant role the Kansas fire service plays in protecting lives and property of the citizens of the state.

According to this report, incidents of almost every type of fire were reduced between 2014 and 2015, with the exception of vehicle fires. The most common type of fire was "Vegetation Fire," and incidents of this type of fire reduced from 8,414 in 2014 to 7,188 in 2015. The second most common type of fire is "Structure Fire," and there were 488 fewer structure fires in 2015 than in 2014 (3,660 in 2015 compared to 4,148 in 2014).

"Knowing the whens, whys, wheres and hows of fire in Kansas enables our brave firefighters to more intelligently attack the problems of fire in Kansas," said Doug Jorgensen, State Fire Marshal. "Our agency equips fire departments across the state with the information they need to be increasingly intelligent in how they protect

the lives and property of Kansans."

During 2015, vegetation fires accounted for nearly 48% of all fires. Kansas vegetation fires are mostly small, with 80% of vegetation fires burning less than ten acres.

Fire departments reported a loss of 110,690 burned acres in 2015, a significant drop from 2014 during which 189,514 acres was burned.

One in five vegetation fires are caused by a controlled burn (1,382 in 2015) and most of these occurred during Spring with 812 in March 2015 alone.

The overwhelming majority of wildfires in Kansas are caused by humans. Only 3% of vegetation-related fires are attributed to fully natural causes. Prescribed burns, poorly maintained vehicles/ equipment, and heat sources being used in a flammable place or in an unsafe manner are all common ways that wildfires get started.

Structure Fires Kansas is well on its way to reducing structure fires.

There was almost an 11% decrease in structure fires during 2015 alone. Residential fires have accounted for 7176% of structure fires during the past 15 years. In 2015, 72% of structure fires were residential fires.

The most common fire

cause is cooking, with one in three home fires in Kansas being cooking-related. Cooking fires in 2015 caused a reported loss of $1,656,086.

Alcohol, drugs and sleepiness are causes for cooking fires year-round. Impairments and sleeping were involved in 28% of fatal cooking fires over the last 15 years.

Homes with children pose an increase in fire risk. Unsupervised children cooking in the kitchen caused 98 fires in 2015. Since 2001, 1,639 cooking fires started with unattended children resulting in 93 injuries.

Equipment-caused fires were the second most common type of structure fire in 2015. Clothes dryers and water heaters are major culprits in starting this type of fire.

There are special areas of concern when it comes to fire safety in apartment buildings. Families in apartment buildings live close together, affecting each other's risks associated with fire. Landlords and tenants alike have a role to play in maintaining a fire-safe place to live. In 2015, multi-family dwellings accounted for a total of 19.4% of residential structure fires in Kansas and they accounted for a statistically higher 32.6% of cooking fires.

A full 55% of multi-family

Thank You State Fire Marshal releases “Fires in Kansas”report. dwelling fires are cooking-related.

Balconies/porches are the top area of origin for smoking fires. Multi-family dwellings have a larger problem with 37% of smoking fires happening on a balcony or porch.

Often, these fires are caused by smoking materials discarded into potted plants or mulch. Both are flammable and cause smoldering fires.

The Fire Service and EMS While the incidents of fire calls were reduced, the number of Emergency Medical Service (EMS) calls increased by 9,372 reported calls in 2015. Increasing EMS calls is a continued trend in the shifting workload of our Fire Service.

The full "Fires in Kansas" report is available for download at FireMarshal.ks.gov.

Sincerely, Dr. Dora Davis.

Kansas Geological Survey to measure groundwater levels in Western Kansas A crew from the Kansas Geological Survey, based at the University of Kansas, will measure groundwater levels in 568 wells in early January to monitor the health and sustainability of the High Plains aquifer — the primary source of irrigation, municipal and industrial water for much of western and central Kansas.

The annual program is conducted in coordination with the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources (DWR), which is in the process of measuring an additional 825 wells. Groundwater levels are measured in December, January and February to avoid short-term declines caused by pumping during the growing season.

The KGS crew will be near Colby and Atwood January 3, Goodland and St. Francis January 4, Tribune, Syracuse and Ulysses January 5, Elkhart and Liberal January 6, and Meade and Dodge City January 7, weather permitting.

Of the 1,393 wells to be measured in 48 counties by the KGS and DWR, 90 percent draw water from the High Plains aquifer, a mas-

sive network of underground water-bearing rocks that underlies parts of eight states and includes the extensive Ogallala aquifer. The rest of the wells are drilled into the Dakota aquifer and other deeper systems or shallow alluvial aquifers along creeks and rivers.

Most of the wells the KGS measures tap water from the Ogallala aquifer, which underlies much of western Kansas and makes up the bulk of the High Plains aquifer. On the whole, the wells have been monitored for years, some since the 1960s.

“Nine will be measured for the first time this year, with permission from the landowners, to fill in spatial gaps in the network of wells,” said Brett Wedel, manager of the KGS water-level-data acquisition.

Besides the Ogallala aquifer, the High Plains aquifer encompasses the Great Bend Prairie aquifer in west-central Kansas and the Equus Beds aquifer north and west of Wichita. DWR field offices will measure 825 wells in those central Kansas areas and other parts of High Plains aquifer in western Kansas. The Stockton field of-

fice will measure 222, the Garden City field office will measure 242, and the Stafford field office will measure 361.

“Given the above normal precipitation across much of western and south-central Kansas last year, I'm anticipating improved water-level changes relative to what we experienced three to five years ago, especially in southwest and south-central Kansas.” said Brownie Wilson, KGS water-data manager. “That may not hold true in Northwest Kansas, but we will see.”

Any cumulative slowdown of groundwater-level declines, however, would not be due to the excess precipitation seeping down and recharging the High Plains aquifer but to a significant reduction in pumping for irrigation, Wilson said.

Most wells monitored by KGS and DWR are within the boundaries of the state’s five groundwater management districts (GMDs), which are organized and governed by area landowners and largescale water users to address water-resource issues.

Historical annual measurements for each well are available at the KGS website.

Results of measurements made in January 2017 will be added in late February.

We can’t think of a better place to ring in the New Year than here at home with great folks like you. Thank you for counting on us in 2016.

We greatly appreciate your kind support. Your trust in us means so much!

We sincerely hope the coming year brings a multitude of blessings and good fortune to you and yours.

Please accept our very best wishes for a very Happy New Year!

Hoskinson Water Well Service (Your Complete Domestic Well Service) Dick & Peggy Hoskinson • Domestic Wells • Livestock Wells • Well Plugging • • Stock Tanks and Septic Systems • 544-7978 • HC01 Box 33 • Hugoton

Hope Your New Year Sparkles Byrd Prewitt Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution meet for a get together. Pictured left to right are Lynda Fort, Treasurer and Past Regent and Nina Sipes, Secretary.

Byrd Prewitt Chapter of DAR meets for holiday meeting The Byrd Prewitt Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution met for an informal get together Saturday, December 3, at Fort's Cedar View in Ulysses. Lynda Fort was hostess for the occasion.

Each member brought refreshments and gathered

around the table for a relaxed visit with no business allowed.

The Byrd Prewitt Chapter would like to wish each of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and invite you to join them in 2017.

Health. Happiness. Success. Friendship. Love.

We hope your year is filled with everything that brings you joy!

Hugoton/Liberal 502 S. Jackson Hugoton, Kansas

Member FDIC

(620) 544-8908 www.fnbhugoton.com

The Hugoton Hermes

December 29, 2016

Page 6

HHS Eagles make quick work of Cowboys The Eagles got their fifth win of the season Tuesday, December 20 in a game that

Colby Korf follows through with his shot from the top of the key.

was rescheduled because of bad weather last Friday.

Goodland was no match for the Eagles’ non-selfish offense, tough defense and experienced post players.

Goodland came out and scored the first basket of the game, their only lead for the night. The Eagles racked up 18 points before Goodland scored again. Carlos Montiel scored his only eight points of the game on a variety of shots. The sophomore owned the first quarter. HHS led 23 to 6 at the end of the first.

The Eagles had pretty much the same results in the second quarter as they did in the first. A different Eagle

chipped in on their scoring effort. The Eagle at one point in the quarter had his own block party, swatting two consecutive Goodland shots, one leading to a Carlos Tinoco three pointer. The Eagles went into the half with a 40 to 14 lead.

In the second half Goodland started to see some of their shots start falling and the Eagles cooled off a bit.

Goodland scored two baskets to every Eagle basket for most of the third quarter, cutting the lead to 17 points.

The cowboys only trailed 47 to 30 going into the third quarter.

The Eagles finished off

Goodland in the fourth quarter led by Zack Leininger, Mitchell Hamlin and Colby Korf. The Eagles scored 19 in the fourth quarter to win the game 66 to 38.

The Eagles were led by Leininger, who did a little bit of everything on the court. He had 17 points, five rebounds, four steals and two assists for the game. Other notable Eagles were Tony Kinser with 11 points, nine rebounds, and three blocks, Colby Korf with 11 points, Hamlin with ten points, and Montiel with eight points. The Eagles will travel to Garden City after the New Year and face the Buffaloes January 3.

Zack Leininger goes up for two during action Tuesday. HHS’s #12 Mitchell Hamlin, #23 Colby Korf, and #24 Carlos Montiel are ready for the rebound.

Ladies struggle to find their stride The Lady Eagles won a tough battle against Goodland in a rescheduled Tuesday night game 55 to 38. The game saw a lot of uncharacteristic plays by the Lady Eagles. The game was filled with miscues and missed shots that let Goodland hang around for most of the game.

The Lady Eagles took a big lead in the first quarter with Katy Heger leading the way,

Brooklynn Harper and Sydney Hein race for the free ball during action at Goodland.

as she earned seven points in the quarter. However, Goodland made a late quarter charge with the help of Goodland’s junior Allie McDaniel, and climbed back into the game only down 17 to 10.

Goodland entered the second quarter still on a hot streak and added four more points to cut the Eagles’ lead to three. Coach Gillen sent out a mass substitution for the Lady Eagles and kept that group on the court for the remainder of the first half. The squad scraped their way for the rest of the quarter, led by Melissa Fabela who knocked down a couple of threes. The quarter was a mixture of fouls, turnovers, and missed shots but the Eagles got to the locker room up by ten.

Hugoton started off the second half hot, scoring nine unanswered points. The Lady Eagles ended the third quarter with multiple turnovers and miscues, allowing Goodland to finish the quarter with eight unanswered points

Carlos Montiel seeks out a pass from his teammate.

Lady Eagles’ JV and C teams take care of business Tuesday Katy Heger dribbles down toward the Lady Eagle basket during Tuesday night’s game at home. Katy had eleven points for the night. of their own. At the end of the third quarter the Lady Eagles led by eight.

The fourth quarter was much the same as the rest of the game. Goodland hung in the game but made no serious run to catch the Eagles and the Eagles did not put a drive together to really put Goodland out until the end of the quarter. Sydney Hein took control of the final min-

utes of the game and scored eight of Hugoton’s final ten points, closing out the Goodland game.

The Lady Eagles was led in scoring by Melissa Fabela with 14 points. Other Lady Eagle contributors were Hein with 11, Heger with 11, and Amy Scott with ten. The Lady Eagles will play again January 3 in Garden City.

Good Luck on your winter sports Eagles!

Monday, January 3 HHS Basketball Girls C Team at Garden City, 4:00 p.m.

HHS Basketball Boys C Team at Garden City, 4:00 p.m.

HHS Basketball Boys JV at Garden City, 5:45 p.m.

HHS Basketball Girls JV at Garden City, 7:30 p.m.

HHS Basketball Girls Varsity at Garden City 6:00 p.m.

HHS Basketball Boys Varsity at Garden City, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, January 5 HMS Basketball Eighth Boys vs Moscow, Home, 4:00 p.m.

HMS Basketball Seventh Boys vs Moscow, Home, 4:00 p.m.

Friday, January 6 HHS Wrestling at Lakin, 3:00 p.m.

HHS Basketball Girls’ JV at Colby, 4:45 p.m.

HHS Basketball Boys’ JV at Colby, 4:45 p.m.

HHS Basketball Girls at Colby, 6:30 p.m.

HHS Basketball Boys’ C Team at Colby, 6:30 p.m.

HHS Boys’ Varsity at Colby, 8:00 p.m.

HHS Girls’ C Team at Colby, 8:00 p.m.

Monday, January 9 HMS Basketball Eighth Boys A vs Liberal Eisenhower Middle, Home, 4:00 p.m.

HMS Basketball Seventh Boys B vs Liberal Eisenhower Middle, Home, 4:00 p.m.

HMS Basketball Eighth Boys B vs Liberal Eisenhower Middle, Home, 5:00 p.m.

HMS Basketball Seventh Boys A vs Liberal Eisenhower Middle, Home, 5:00 p.m.

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Tony Kinser dribbles to gain position under the goal while keeping a Goodland player at bay.

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The Lady Eagles’ JV and C teams played Tuesday night, December 20 against Goodland. The JV girls won a close

game 47 to 45. The C team girls also earned a victory over the visiting Cowgirls.

Jenna Beesley tries to get control of the down ball during action Tuesday.

Etni Guzman watches for an open teammate in the game against the Cowgirls.

Angelica Bojorquez battles a Goodland player for the ball.

Michael Mirabal races down court Tuesday.

Boys’ JV and C teams split Goodland games The HHS boys’ JV and C teams were in action Tuesday night versus Goodland. The

JV boys lost 56 to 47, while the C team boys won 62 to 58.

Damian Lewis goes up for two during the make up game versus the Cowboys Tuesday.

Javier Lopez heads down court Tuesday in the game against Goodland.

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The Hugoton Hermes

Northwest Cotton Growers Co-op nears end of ginning season Northwest Cotton Growers Co-op is at the end of the ginning season for the local cotton growers. The acreage was almost twice the total from last year. Eight thousand acres producing over 10,000 bales was grown this year.

This result is better than the last three years.

A lot of farmers are expressing interest in growing cotton next year, so 2017 will probably be even better.

According to Gin Manager Jerry Stuckey, they will be

completely done ginning in two or three more days. As of Monday, December 26, 10,024 bales of cotton have been ginned at the Moscow facility this fall.

A bale of cotton weighs about 480 pounds. One bale of cotton can make 215 pairs of jeans, 249 bed sheets,409 men's sport shirts, 690 terry bath towels, 3,085 diapers, 2,104 boxer shorts, 1,256 pillowcases, 1,217 men's Tshirts, 4,321 mid-calf socks, or 313,600 $100 dollar bills.

so bring a gift. Cards will be played. Then there will be a service to bring in the New Year.

Everyone is welcome to join in this fun event.

by Judy Hickert

COMPLETE MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES • Including Family and Marriage Counseling •

Southwest Guidance Center Call 624-8171 for an appointment

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Yamilet Rojo and Jaylen Mendez are presented with the second quarter Students of the Month Awards for Moscow High School. Photo courtesy of Tina Salmans.

The following account of Moscow was taken from the writings of local historian, Edith Campbell Thomson, who died in 1983 at the age of 96.

Moscow (or Mosco as it originally was called) was founded June 6, 1887, by The Moscow Town Company. It was founded in the recently organized county of Stevens.

The city flourished as many "boom" towns of the Southwest did at that time. The population became as much as 200. Many of the dwellings were sod and were half dugout as lumber had to be hauled by wagon a great

distance. There were few trees in this area as it was prairie where buffalo had roamed not too long before. Large buildings, such as a hotel or rooming house, were built of lumber.

Moscow boasted a two story hotel and a newspaper, "The Moscow Review", which proclaimed to the world, ""Opportunities of the West". An editorial dated April 7, 1888, said, "No new town has brighter prospects or offers fairer inducements to business men and investors than Moscow the booming town in Southwest Kansas."

A post office was established April 28, 1888, and had been petitioned under then name of Mosco, an abbreviation of Moscoso, one of Coronado's men. (Coronado led a band of Spaniards across Kansas in their search for gold around 1540.) For some unknown reason the Postal Department attached the letter w. There is no knowledge of any Russians ever having lived here.

When the boom collapsed and a drought set in, early in the 90’s, Moscow dwindled away. In '93 no vestige of the happy little city remained. The

places where the buildings once stood were grass covered. The Post Office was maintained by being moved from one homestead to another; thereby a few people kept the mail route established.

In 1905 the Charles Stull family filed on land near the old Moscow townsite, and several years later a member of the family took over the Post Office and moved it from the Neathery Ranch to the Stull homestead.

Mr. Stull added a small store the Post Office, consequently, his place was at times referred to as Moscow.

Kansas Governor Sam Brownback proclaimed January to be Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Governor Brownback was joined by Attorney General Derek Schmidt; Secretary Lana Gordon, Kansas Department of Labor; Secretary Phyllis Gilmore, Kansas Department for Children and Families; Secretary Susan Mosier, M.D., MBA, FACS, Kansas Department of Health and Environment; and Secretary Joe Norwood, Kansas Department of Corrections in issuing the proclamation.

“Kansas was founded on the conviction that every life has

dignity. Today, human trafficking is an affront on that dignity, depriving victims of their freedom and human rights,” Brownback said. “Kansas will continue its efforts to end this form of modern day slavery.”

Human trafficking is one of the largest and fastest-growing criminal industries in the world.

It is based on recruiting, harboring and transporting people for the purpose of exploitation.

Both sex trafficking and labor trafficking occur in Kansas and both adults and children are victims. Kansas’ location and interstate system make it a major transportation area for

victims of human trafficking.

“Our office remains committed to efforts to thwart criminal activity, hold accountable both traffickers and buyers, and provide victim support. Awareness is also an important part of combating human trafficking,” Schmidt said. “The public can assist by reporting suspicious activity to the national hotline at 888-3737-888 or to local law enforcement in an emergency situation. The watchful eyes of Kansas citizens can help protect those who are vulnerable from this crime against human dignity.”

“The Kansas Department for Children and Families is fully committed to helping ensure that child victims of human trafficking are treated as such, and receive the supports and services they need to overcome this crime against them,” Gilmore said.

“Preventing human trafficking is essential, and it requires the help of our partnering State agencies, law enforcement and members of the public. We encourage anyone who suspects the abuse of a child, whether physical or sexual abuse, to contact the Kansas Protection Report Center right away.”

The 2013 Kansas human trafficking laws define commercial exploitation of children, which does not require a showing of force, fraud, threat or coercion and references the existing statutory definition of human trafficking and aggravated human trafficking.

“The legislators strengthened our ability to prosecute labor traffickers, but it is still a big problem,” Gordon said. “While we have made immense strides with the bill, we cannot stop there and need to continue fighting. Nearly 20 percent of trafficking involves labor exploitation. If you or someone you know is working under unfair conditions, please report it.”

Labor trafficking is the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision or obtaining of a person for labor or services, through the use of force, fraud or coercion.

“The Kansas Department of Health and Environment works together with the attorney general’s office, the Department for

Children and Families, the Department of Corrections, the Department of Labor and law enforcement to educate the public on the presence of human trafficking, how to recognize the signs, and what to do if you see these signs,” Mosier said.

The governor along with the attorney general’s office, DCF, KDHE, KDOC and KDOL are working together to educate Kansans about the presence of human trafficking, what to look for and how to report suspected human trafficking. Educational information is provided on the agencies’ Web sites.

“Each state agency has an important part to play in the eradication of human trafficking,” Norwood said. “In our contact with both the victims and the perpetrators of human trafficking, the KDOC is eager to continue its role to end this assault on basic freedom.”

For more information on human trafficking, go to http://ag.ks.gov/human-traf ficking.

Governor proclaims January to be Human Trafficking Awareness Month

Serving Southwest Kansas and the Oklahoma Panhandle for over 44 years.

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TERRY at 544-4361

1-800-264-4361 or Elkhart - 697-2657

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Your Local Lawn Sprinkler Expert Sprinkler Repairs and Maintenance New Lawn Installs

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Historian Edith Thomson relates Moscow history

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Page 7

Moscow News

Moscow Baptist Church hosts New Years Eve gathering There will be a New Years Eve gathering at the Moscow Baptist Church, Saturday, December 31, at 7:00 p.m.

Bring snacks to share. There will also be a gift exchange,

December 29, 2016

Contact 620-544-6777

INSURANCE For the Future

With our insurance policies, you can have peace of mind, knowing that your family will be well taken care of.

Life Fire • Theft Disability Annuities/Pensions

...and others Stop In Today and Visit With Karen Yoder!

544-4314 Open 8:30 - 4:30 Mon. - Thurs. & 8:30 - 5:30 Friday 600 S. Main - CSB Annex

Insurance Agency Karen Yoder

Karen Yoder, Agency Manager 600 S. Main • Hugoton

Stevens County Hospital

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

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

Mon. Tues.

Fri. Mon. Mon. Tues.

Thurs.

Tues.

Fri. Mon. Tues.

1/2 1/3 1/6 1/9 1/9 1/10 1/12 1/17 1/20 1/23 1/24

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.

Wishing You a New Year Trimmed With Every Happiness

Thank you for your business.

Happy New Year!

The

Hugoton

Hermes

The Hugoton Hermes

December 29, 2016

Page 8

Rolla News

Saturday, December 31 New Year’s Eve Sunday, January 1 New Year’s Day Monday, January 2 Teacher Inservice No School Tuesday, January 3 School Resumes Wednesday, January 4 Migrant Meeting at District Office at 6:00 p.m.

Thursday, January 5 Junior High Basketball vs.

NCS at 4:30 p.m.

Friday, January 6 High School Basketball (JV) vs. Fowler at 4:30 p.m.

High School Basketball (Varsity) vs. Fowler at 6:30 p.m.

High School Scholars Bowl at Wichita School in Session Saturday, January 7 High School Scholars Bowl at Bishop Carroll at 9:00 a.m.

Monday, January 9 Junior High Basketball at S. Baca at 4:30 p.m.

Board of Education Meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, January 10 Junior High Basketball vs.

Balko (Varsity Only) at 4:00 p.m.

High School Basketball vs.

Balko (Varsity Only) 6:30 p.m.

Lions Club Supper Chili /Stew and Cinnamon Rolls at 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, January 11 Rolla Rec Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, January 12 High Shool Scholars Bowl at Hugoton at 4:00 p.m.

Junior High Open Gym 7:00-10:00 p.m.

Friday, January 13 Junior High Basketball at Deerfield at 4:00 p.m.

High School Basketball JV at Deerfield at 5:00 p.m.

High School Basketball Varsity at Deerfield at 6:30 p.m.

No School Saturday, January 14 High School Scholars Bowl at Sublette at 9:30 a.m.

Monday, January 16 Martin Luther King Jr. Day Junior High Basketball vs.

Moscow at 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday, January 17 Morton County Spelling Bee in Old Gym at 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, January 18 Geography Bee (fourtheighth grades) in District Office at 3:00 p.m.

Thursday, January 19 High School Basketball at HPL Tournament at GCCC at 3:00 p.m.

Friday, January 20 No School Saturday, January 21 High School Basketball at HPL Tournament at GCCC at 12:00 p.m.

Junior High KMEA at Dodge City Sunday, January 22 Dress Up Days Mon.- PJDay Tues. - Twin Day Weds. - Wildlife Day Thurs. - Color Day Fired Up Friday Monday, January 23 Junior High Basketball vs.

Yarbrough (Varsity Only) at 4:00 p.m.

High School Basketball vs.

Yarbrough (Varsity Only) at 6:30 p.m.

SCCC Night Tuesday, January 24 Junior High Scholars Bowl at Dodge City at 4:00 p.m.

FHSU Rep. in High School at 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday, January 25 Homecoming Week Friday, January 27 PEP Rally in New Gym at 3:00 p.m.

Junior High Basketball vs.

Felt at 4:00 p.m.

High School Basketball vs.

Felt (Coronation 1/2 Time of Boys Game) at 6:30 p.m.

Booster Club Silent Auction School in Session Monday, January 30 Junior High Scholars Bowl at Deerfield at 4:00 p.m.

Tuesday, January 31 Parent /Teacher Conferences 4:30-8:30 p.m.

Rolla memories from the past year The end of 2016 is very near. This is the time of year people often spend reflecting on what the past year has meant to them. Here are a few memories from the articles in the Rolla News from the past year.

Jessica Pinkley and Chandler Burrows were crowned as Basketball Homecoming Royalty for 2016.

Jessica made a bold statement by choosing to wear her uniform rather than a fancy dress for the ceremony, much to the chagrin of some of the older community.

The Rolla Boy Scouts hosted a food drive to help off set the cost of the Wednesday night meals for the Pentecostal Holiness Church.

The Rolla Scholars’ Bowl team continued a winning streak that took them all the way to first place at State!

Chloe Burnett, Melanie Norton and Abby Easterwood participated in the Southwest Kansas Junior High KMEA Honor Choir.

The Rolla High School pep band traveled to SCCC to play for a Seward County Saints home basketball game.

Chandler Burrows was accepted into Washburn University.

Carson Milburn and Deserae Schwindt were chosen by Pioneer Electric to travel to Steamboat Springs while Ty Dixon was chosen to travel to Washington D.C.

The Rolla Elementary P.E. class participated in the first shoot out competition.

Aspen Sohm was a threepeat winner in the Geography Bee while it was all relative for Chandler Burrows and Ella Burrows, who wrote historical papers for the state history day.

A record number of students qualified for Regional science fair and for State science fair this year. And for the second time at Rolla, we sent two students to the National Science Fair. Deserae Schwindt and Paige Claassen traveled with Zeta Greene to compete at the National level with their project about Soil Profiles.

The Class of 2016 traveled to Los Angeles for their senior trip.

It was a Mardi Gras Masquerade for Prom this year and with that came a lot of rain. That didn’t dampen any spirits and all who attended prom and the After Prom party had a great time!

Former Rolla High School graduate Casey Barrett was inducted into the The Rho Chi Society, Alpha Theta Chapter of the University of Colorado's School of Pharmacy.

New NHS members were inducted. New members included Teagan Simmons, Paige Claassen, Henry Wiebe, Carson Milburn and Allyson Norton.

The Spring Concert and

In last week’s article, I wrote about the early years of WWII with a touch of levity primarily because, as I explained, most of the boys didn’t leave the USA immediately but rather toured around the USA for a year or so getting the necessary training, and having beer in the process.

As the War wore on, things got more serious. Occasionally the servicemen would get short leaves, which they generally used to visit their families. I’d like to explore three passes my family members received, which were probably typical of families throughout the USA during this time period.

The first photo here is of my Uncle Harold Anderson visiting his family in Sylvia in autumn of 1942 after completion of his basic training.

Keep in mind that he had just graduated from Rolla High School two and a half years earlier and had been attending college in Hays.

Because his father had served in Europe during WWI, the two of them worked out a coded system for Uncle Harold to let his father know where he was in Europe because they both knew Harold’s letters would be scrutinized and censored for security reasons. A common phrase at the time was,

“Loose Lips Sink Ships.” Not long after completion of his basic training (after this photo was taken), his leadership qualities became evident and he was assigned to officers training school at Fort Sill, Ok. About a year later, in late January 1944, Virgil Stout, my future father, was stationed at Camp Carson in Colorado, but got a three-day pass and he visited this very same home in Sylvia to marry Margie, my future mother.

The wedding was put together so hastily the homemakers of the home forgot to gut the chicken they roasted for the wedding “banquet.”

Mom and Grandma discovered their mistake while in the kitchen when they removed it from the oven. They quickly decided the best course of action would be to cut up the chicken in the kitchen rather than at the table. Later, all the guests wanted to know the secret of roasting a chicken without the meat drying out because this was the juiciest roast chicken they’d ever had. Author’s note: That was one family secret I was not sworn to keep, so now the secret is out!

But as 1944 progressed, things got more serious. September 8, 1944, Uncle Harold was sent to Germany, and just ten and a half weeks later in November, his family received notice he was missing in action (MIA). Keep in mind how such notifications were sent out during that time frame. Unlike modern movie portrayals of some military officer’s car pulling up in front of the house with two officers and a chaplain emerging, most notifications were sent by telegram. So it was with the notice my family received – a telegram. However, please remember who the only telegraph operator was in Sylvia at the time. It was my grandfather, the father of Uncle Harold. He took that MIA notice about his only son, one Morse-code letter at a time. With tears in his eyes a few days later, he took the next notice, the “KIA” telegram. Uncle Harold was killed in action by machine gun fire in Germany November 22, 1944.

The month following Uncle

Kindergarten graduation were held the same due, to free Kindergarten teacher, Sherry Pinkley, up to have her precious new baby, Carter. He arrived just in time for big sister Jessica to graduate from high school.

Band, choir and speech students participated in State festivals.

Outstanding Choir Members were Joseph Mendez, Kyri Brummett and Sarah Easterwood.

Outstanding Band Member was Garry Norton.

The Rolla High School Class of 2016 completed their requirements for graduation.

Kyri Brummett, Sarah Easterwood and Garry Norton are attending Barclay College. Chandler Burrows and Panches Maravilla are attending Washburn University.

Chance Toole is attending Pratt Community College. Jessica Pinkley is attending West Texas A & M, and NeNe Green is attending Wichita State University.

The Rolla Junior High Class of 2016 completed their requirements for commencement to high school.

Garry Norton made his first - and hopefully not his last - mission trip to Africa.

Three Rolla High School freshmen have qualified to compete in a national Microsoft Office competition in Orlando, Fl. Kaberlin Hull, Preston Burrows and Oscar Silva traveled with their

instructor, Traci Taylor, to attend this awesome event.

Josh Hull graduated from the Police Academy.

Alexandra Hart competed at the three levels of track this summer, Regional, State and National, placing first at Nationals for her age division.

Rachel Dunn was recognized for her 30 years of service to High Plains Educational Cooperative.

Aileen Cruz and Luis Martinez were chosen as the 2016 Football royalty.

The Rolla High School volleyball team was Sub State runners up.

Dr. Randy Watson, the Education Commissioner and Sally Cauble visited Rolla as part of their tour across the state.

Brooke Hinds and Raegan Hinds were selected as part of the District KMEA Honor Choir. Brooke has been chosen as an alternate to the AllState KMEA Honor Choir which will be after the first of the year sometime.

The annual science fair took place again, with lots of winners from Rolla.

Music filled the air during the month of December, with a piano recital and the Christmas Concert.

Finally the school year ended with the annual Santa Day activities.

As 2016 comes to an end, look back and learn from the lessons. Make 2017 a great year! God bless everyone!

Harold Anderson visits home after serving in the US Army for just a few months during late fall 1942. Pictured with him are his mother, Ethel Anderson; his younger sister - author David Stout’s future mother Margie Anderson; and Harold’s youngest sister, Donna Lee Anderson. Their faces share a common theme with other photos of WWII servicemen and their families somber demeanors.

Back row - Al Thompson, husband of Stella Stout; Price Stout; Don Stout; and Merle Stout (leaning on car. Front row - Elver Stout, father of Don; Ed Stout, father of Virgil; Virgil Stout; and Charles Williams, husband of Pearl Stout.

Harold’s death, my father and his cousin Don Stout managed to get Christmas passes, and the entire Stout family congregated on the Stout homestead of Ed and Minnie Stout. By this time, Mom was four months pregnant with me, but nevertheless she took the train from Sylvia to Rolla to join the Stout family on the farm, everyone knowing full well of her brother’s death.

As can be seen by the following photos, only the Stout men are shown. In addition to the two soldiers in the photos, I would like to bring your attention to Ed and Elver Stout in these photos, brothers to each other. Keep in mind they came to Morton County as young children 57 years earlier in 1887 to help their parents establish Rolla.

It’s rather obvious they were both getting on up in years by Christmas 1944.

About six weeks after these photos were taken, Virgil Stout shipped off to Europe, while his pregnant

wife Margie waited at her parents’ home in Sylvia for my arrival in May – and for her husband’s return at some unknown future date (but hopefully not returning in a box, as her brother eventually did).

Author David Stout’s father Virgil Stout with his cousin Don Stout during a visit home at Christmas 1944.

The

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Thursday, December 29, 2016 Page 1B

History From The Hermes Compiled by Ruthie Winget

Citizens State Bank sure knows how to show off their Christmas spirit! In the top photo, most of the CSB employees wore their most festive sweaters and apparel, while the ladies at left got creative and fashioned their own “ugly sweaters” from scratch! From left to right, the crafty employees are Lisa Bennett, Hope Leal, Adriana Alfaro and Michelle Slaughter. They really pulled out all the stops with their jolly jumpers!

NEWS FROM

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

Hopefully all of you had a very Merry Christmas!!

Don’t forget our New Year’s Eve dance coming up this Saturday from 8:00 p.m.12:00 midnight. Bob Walter is playing live country music.

Please bring a potluck.

Hugoton Senior Center will be closed Monday, January 2, 2017. Have a Happy New Year!

Sherry Kelling’s piano students played Christmas music at the Hugoton Senior Center Monday, December 19. The following students performed: Lakota Persing, Lupita Hernandez, Elena Zhuang, Lydia Owens, MaKynzie Esarey, Morgan Niehues, Grant Niehues, Britta Beesley, Chelsea Crawford, Clayton Grubbs, Alaina Gold, Isabel Hagman, Lexi Crawford, Tobias Grubbs and Catie Gooch.

Tuesday, December 20 the following piano students performed: Braylee Kraisinger,

Jayce Heger, Matthew Easterwood, Jewels Kraisinger, Kameron Ray, Katie Loewen, Casle Heger, Katelynn Willis, Morgan Anderson, Ava Vertrees, Farrah Gaskill, Genesis Landa, Heidi Bogan, Emme H. Gaskill, Jaden Hill and Lynnelle Bogan. We thank Sherry and all her students for sharing their talent with us!

Wednesday, January 11, 2017, at 11:45 a.m., Stetson Honig will present information about fraud prevention.

Please come and listen to this important information.

Just a reminder – those of you who are on Facebook, please “Like” our page “Hugoton Senior Activity Center”.

You’ll find the monthly menu, photos, and other posts.

We deliver lunch Monday through Friday to homebound people. If you are in need of our services or you know someone who is, please

call the Senior Center. We will give you information about cost, menus, etc.

Senator Pat Roberts’ office is available to assist you with problems you may be having with federal agencies like Social Security, Veterans’/VA issues, military cases, Medicare, passports, and IRS. If you need help, please call his Dodge City office at 620-227-2244.

If you have questions concerning caregiving, legal matters, disability, health insurance, housing, etc., please call Michael Johnston at Southwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging at 620-2258240.

Menu Dec. 29 .... BBQ Polish Sausage Dec. 30...............................Stew Jan. 2..................Center Closed Jan. 3.........................Meat Loaf Jan. 4..........Chicken & Noodles Jan. 5 .................... Swiss Steak Activities Thursday, December 29 Exercise....................10:30 a.m.

Friday, December 30 Exercise....................10:30 a.m.

Bingo........................12:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 31 Canasta, Pitch & Potlock........................6:00 p.m.

New Year’s Eve Dance8:00 p.m. ..............Bob Walter will play Monday, January 2 Center Closed Tuesday, January 3 Exercise....................10:30 a.m.

Pool & Snooker ..........9:30 a.m.

Wednesday, January 4 Exercise....................10:30 a.m.

Painting & Coloring ...1:00 p.m.

Thursday, January 5 Exercise....................10:30 a.m.

LONG HIGH SNOWBANKS—Snowbanks hide the Shafer house from the north Monday when the weekend snow storm abated. Luckily only one car was buried. The opening where it Thursday, January 5, 2012 Mike Schechter and C.W. Harper were both awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual Hugoton Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet.

Friday, December 20, 1946 The colored lights on Main Street and up on the water tower have been turned on at nights the past two weeks and they are the most beautiful and colorful in this three state panhandle area. The merchants of Hugoton purchased the original light streamers some fifteen years ago. Although the bulbs were not so plentiful during the war years, they certainly rejuvenate the town at night now. Home decorations are showing up this week better than for several years. Many were unable to buy the colored lights and decorations they would like to have.

Friday, January 29, 1932 This is a continued report of when Hugoton City Marshal C.H. Newman was shot and killed by Fred McBee. Marshal Newman died in Epworth Hospital at Liberal.

The first case of importance to come before the regular January term of the District Court was the trial of Fred McBee for the murder of Charles Newman, the city marshal of Hugoton. The murder occurred in Hugoton October 12, 1931 when Marshal Newman attempted to arrest McBee and take him to

was dug out is visible. The snowbank was continued on the south side in like manner.

From the March 28, 1957 issue of The Hugoton Hermes.

jail, after McBee had trouble in the Ideal Cafe and been ejected therefrom and had then had a fuss with two colored men on the street. The first trial of this case was held in November and lasted several days. After the case had gone to the jury, one member of the jury became temporarily insane and the case was adjudged a mistrial, and the jury dismissed.

During the trial, the courtroom was packed with spectators, friends of both parties, who were eager to get a complete story of the case.

Tuesday and Wednesday forenoon of this week were consumed in securing a jury.

The necessary twelve were finally selected. They are: Tom Harper, R.J. Patterson, Earl Lynch, Melvin Miller, H.P. Shannon, Floyd Bevins, O.E.Brown. E.L. Hardin, Cliff Watson and J.R. Garrett.

(This numbers only ten, but it is what the newspaper reported.)

The state called their first witnesses Wednesday afternoon and the case was on for trial. The prosecution of the case is in the hands of county attorney, L.L. Morgan, attorneys A.E. Kramer

and Russell Hazzard of the law firm of Davis, Hazzard and Crosswhite of Dodge City. The defense is being cared for by attorney W.E. Eddy of Hugoton and G.W. Sawyer of Liberal.

Friday, February 5, 1932 The jury in the Fred McBee trial Tuesday returned a verdict of manslaughter in the first degree, convicting McBee in the fatal shooting of Charles H. Newman, city marshal of Hugoton on last October 12.

Along with the verdict the jury presented to the court a recommendation that the maximum penalty be assessed. The jury’s recommendation in this matter does not, however, affect the sentence of the court, which under the Kansas law is definitely fixed at five to 21 years, and that was the sentence imposed by Judge when McBee Rindon appeared before the judge for sentence.

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.

BECAUSE SAFETY IS KEY,

PLEASE DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE!

“Key” Strategies For A Safe New Year’s Celebration:

I

t probably comes as no surprise that more traffic fatalities due to drunk driving occur at the New Year than any other time, but of course, you should never drink and drive. With your safety in mind, these community sponsors urge you to review these important tips for hosting or attending a safe celebration!

A New Year is coming bringing much celebration, With good friends and good times and free-flowing libation -So party on hearty, but leave driving alone, Because we want to see you get safely home!

WITH BEST WISHES TO EVERYONE FOR A SAFE & HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The

Hugoton

Hermes

• Plan an alcohol-free celebration – Host a fondue or “make your own” ice cream sundae party as a fresh alternative. Add some fun party games to keep guests entertained without drinking!

• Check your keys with the host – This is an effective strategy for giving the host some control over inebriated guests.

• Keep the number of a taxi company handy – A good tip for both party guests and hosts alike.

• Offer to drive a guest home – Start the New Year off right by performing a good deed and help keep drunk drivers off the road.

• Appoint a designated driver – Use the buddy system and you can return the favor next time.

• Provide lots of snacks to party guests – Drinking on an empty-stomach rapidly increases alcohol’s debilitating effects.

• Post transportation info on party invites – Include information for public transportation, car pools and taxi company phone numbers.

• Don’t let a friend drive drunk – Take the car keys away or use one of the strategies above to see your friends safely home.

The Hugoton Hermes

December 29, 2016

Page 2B

Employ simple fire prevention measures to maximize safety Did you know that, according to the National Fire Protection Association, most

people have a false sense of security regarding house fires, believing that they

would have approximately six minutes to evacuate their home in the event of a fire?

In reality, smoke and fire spread rapidly and can overcome occupants in less than

Stauth Museum commemorates the Anniversary of Pearl Harbor with two exhibits In remembrance of the seventy-fifth anniversary of Pearl Harbor, the Stauth Museum of Montezuma is hosting two exhibits to tell the story of the dedication, achievements and sacrifices of the men and women who served their country so gallantly. The exhibits will be displayed through January 22, 2017 in the Special Exhibitions Gallery.

“Infamy: December 7, 1941” is a powerful photographic exhibit of 62 panels that illustrates the deadly Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor – the dark day that plunged the United States headlong into World War II. “We Remember: Images from The National WWII Museum” exhibit includes 75 images from the collections of The National WWII Museum and the National Archives. It is a mixture of iconic images, as well as lesser-known and never-before-published snapshots taken by Veterans.

The Museum has taken the opportunity to enhance this exhibit and honor Kansans involvement in the war by displaying World War II objects

on loan from area residents.

The Museum had a great response to the call for items by 16 people with 127 items. This is truly an amazing display of memorabilia, photographs and letters, news clippings, along with military items such as uniforms, weapons, service awards and medals, and other miscellaneous items used by men who served the country during this time period. This includes a few “War Era” items to represent America's involvement in the war on the Home Front. All of these items have great stories and special meaning and the Museum feels honored to share those stories with Museum visitors.

Come honor these brave men and women, see these great images, meaningful artifacts and share these great stories with your family and friends and pass on their importance to your children and grandchildren!

As a special addition to this exhibit the Museum will be hosting a Movie Event. Popcorn and drinks will be provided with coffee and tea free, and sodas for a small charge.

Solution to December 22, 2016 puzzle

The Movie Matinee Saturday, January 7 at 1:00 p.m. – “Schindler’s List” (1993) a multiple Academy Award winning film based on a true story, Rated R, 197 minutes.

Another one will be closing day, Sunday, January 22 at 2:00 p.m.

– “Unbroken” (2014) the true story of Louis "Louie" Zamperini, a 1939 Olympian and Japanese POW camp survivor and a true American Hero, Rated PG-13, 137 minutes. The Museum is also featuring a wide variety of World War II movies and documentaries alongside the exhibit in the gallery.

“Infamy: December 7, 1941” and “We Remember: Images from the National WWII Museum” were both developed by The National WWII Museum in New Orleans.

The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world – why it was fought, how it was

won, and what it means today – so that future generations will know the price of freedom, and be inspired by what they learn. Dedicated in 2000 as The National D-Day Museum and now designated by Congress as America’s National WWII Museum, it celebrates the American Spirit, the teamwork, optimism, courage and sacrifice of the men and women who fought on the battlefront and served on the Home Front. For more information, call 877-813-3329 or 504-528-1944 or visit national ww2museum.org.

Business hours for the Museum, 111 N Aztec Street, Montezuma are Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon and 1:00 to 4:30 p.m., and Sundays 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. They are closed Mondays and all major holidays including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Years Day. Admission is free.

three minutes.

When a fire occurs, there’s no question that time is critical. The good news is there are several important steps you can take to maximize your escape time. With the following measures in place, you’ll create critical protection for what matters most your home and family.

1. Install smoke alarms.

You should have one in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement. For the best protection, make sure all smoke alarms are interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.

2. Inspect and clean smoke alarms monthly. Replace batteries in spring and fall. To clean the alarm, open the cover and gently vacuum the interior.

3. Prepare and practice a fire escape plan. Draw a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of every room especially sleeping areas.

Discuss the escape routes with every member of your household, and agree on a meeting place outside your

home in case of emergency.

Practice your escape plan at least twice a year.

4. Select building materials that provide passive fire protection. Passive fire protection is part of the core of the building and helps control fire by limiting its spread.

One very effective form of passive fire protection is the installation of insulation.

When adding or upgrading insulation, look for products made from naturally fire-resistant, inorganic materials.

A favorite among builders, contractors and homeowners is a stone wool insulation called Roxul Safe ‘n’ Sound, which offers fire resistance up to 2,150°F. Its melting point is higher than the temperature of a typical house fire, which means it will stay in place longer to provide passive fire protection when every second counts, allowing more time for safe evacuation and for first responders to arrive.

Submitted by Metro Editorial Services.

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 HELP WANTED: Seeking help for cleaning up rental properties. Call 620-428-5033 or 620-544-8202.

(9c44)

Truck Driver Wanted 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

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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 JBS Five Rivers Cattle Feeding/ Grant County Feeders

OPENINGS AVAILABLE JBS Five Rivers Cattle Feeding/Grant County Feeders is looking for hard working and dependable individuals to work in our well maintained facilities. Grant County Feeders has openings for the following positions available: Mill Laborer, Mill Maintenance, Penriders & Receiver.

We offer competitive wages, a full benefit package, and a “Safety First” culture. Come join the team at JBS Grant County Feeders.

Please call 620-356-4466 for more information.

You may apply in person at 7597 W. Rd 17, Ulysses, Ks. between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday, or apply anytime on the following website: www.fiveriverscattle.com/careers EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled (2c52)

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We’re sure you look forward to taking the Hugoton Hermes home with you each week. Someone you love may enjoy it just as much. Help them relax in their favorite chair with a copy and allow them to get hours of news, features, sports, editorials, and more. In-depth coverage you just can’t find in the news.

The

Hugoton

Hermes

SUBSCRIPTION FORM DATE________________ NAME___________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS_______________________________________________________________ CITY, STATE, & ZIP CODE __________________________________________________ Check One and Enclose Proper Amount for One Year to Three Years

Mail this form or bring it to: The

Hugoton Hermes, 522 S. Main, Hugoton, Ks. 67951

In-County and adjoining counties 1 yr. $30 o 2 yr. $57 o 3 yr. $85 o Non-Local KS, Adjoining States and Other States 1 yr. $35 o 2 yr. $65 o 3 yr. $97 o Sales Tax is Included In All of the Above

522 S. Main Hugoton, Ks. 67951 620-544-4321

Also Indicate Whether New o Renewal o Adding To Current o Picks up in Hermes office o

Online-only subscriptions available for $2.99/mo. or $24.96/yr. at hugotonhermes.com/issue

The Hugoton Hermes

December 29, 2016

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

307 N. Kansas, Suite 101 Liberal, KS 67901

(620) 624-1212

Page 3B

425 S. Main St. - $60,000 Great downtown Main Street location easily accessible from either Main Street or Northwest Avenue. This shop with 2 overhead doors is perfect for small vehicle repair, small equipment repair or retail pickup/delivery. 3/4 bath on site. 5 HP 150 Gal air compressor and 15,000 lb. lift included as well as parts counter, desk, bolt bins, and work benches. Overhead doors are 9' X 9' and 9 1/2' X 11 1/2' (H). Covered exterior storage area with gate for security.

402 West 11th - Commercial Office Build614 S Harrison - Ranch style brick, 3 bed/2 ing, 1997 sq ft, currently has reception, ofbath, updated kitchen & baths, att garage, fice, 3 exam rooms, 3 baths. Lots of fence, sprinkler. Nice property! Call to see it potential! Call today to view this property. today!!

-_-_-_-

300 S Madison - Ranch, 3 bed/2 b, cen 1410 S Jefferson- Ranch, 3 bed/1 b, cen H/A, carport, fence, storage shed. Call H/A att dbl garage, fence, storage shed, intoday!! cludes adjacent lot. Nice Location!

1209 S Madison- Nice Ranch style home, 3 bed/2 b, updated kitchen & baths, cen H/A, att garage, fence, shed. Call today to see this nice property!

ROLLA PLAZA APARTMENTS 1- and 2- bedroom apartments available (Rental Assistance Available) Equal Housing Opportunity

620-492-6608 Office tfc16

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!

408 E. Fifth - Ranch style, 3 bed/3 bath, part 519 Jayhawk Avenue - Beautiful ranch bsmt, att garage, cen H/A, sheds. $125,000 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!!

CED

REDU

1016 S Trindle- Ranch, 3 bed/1 b, cen H/A, att garage, fence. Nice location!

ED REDUC 310 S Monroe - Ranch Style, brick, 2 bed/1 bath, cen H/A, kit appl, det garage. Call today to see this home.

SOLD 2340 Road 20, Moscow, KS- Beautiful Ranch Style Home, 4 bed/2.5 b, 2 fpl, kit appliances, 2 nice metal bldgs, acreage.

Nice property! Call today!!

REDUC

Locally Owned, Your Real Estate Expert ng!

Commercial Listi

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

ED

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

SOLD

Land/Commercial/Residential

Commercial Listing - 113 W. 6th Hugoton Kansas at the corner of Sixth & Jackson. Asking $269,800.

Land Listing - 320 Acres in CRP grass for sale in 2 tracts, one northeast of Hugoton, Kansas and the other south of Feterita, Kansas.

For more information, contact

(13c40)

913 S Jackson - Sweet! Ranch style, 3 bed/1 b, floor furnace, window air, det garage, appliances. Call to set your show- 218 N Oklahoma Ave, Elkhart - Ranch ing! style, 3 bed/2 b, cen H/A, fpl, att garage. Nice location! $62,500 w/buyers incentive! Call today!!

SOLD

REDUC

1403 S Jefferson - Beautiful ranch style, 3 bed/2.5 b, fpl, formal living/dining, built in appliances, att garage, 24x36 met bldg w/heated floor, full bath, cov patio. Much, much more!!

Chance Yoder at 620-544-1907 or visit our Web site at www.highplainsre.com

ED

Project Hope Open Tues & Thurs 8:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Please Bring Your Own Food Containers

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!”

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AL-Anon Family Group

Support for family & friends of problem drinkers meet Mondays & Thursdays at 8 pm 1405 Cemetery Road 544-2610 or 544-2854 kansas-al-anon.org tfc

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”

PUBLIC NOTICE (First published in The Hugoton Hermes, Thursday, December 29, 2016) 3t IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Cleston C. Lowry, deceased, CASE NO. 15-PR-39 NOTICE OF HEARING THE STATE OF KANSAS TO ALL PERSONS CONCERNED: You are notified that a petition has been filed in this Court by Linda Carol Duran, duly appointed, qualified and acting Executor of the Estate of Cleston C. Lowry, deceased, requesting that Petitioner’s acts be approved; the Waivers of petitioner’s account be settled and allowed; the heirs be determined; the Will construed and the Estate be assigned to the persons entitled thereto; the Court find the allowances requested for attorneys’ fees and expenses are reasonable, should

be allowed and ordered paid; the court costs be determined and ordered paid; the administration of the Estate be closed; upon the filing of receipts the Petitioner be finally discharged as Executor of the Estate of Cleston C. Lowry, deceased, and Petitioner be released from further liability.

You are required to file your written defenses to the petition on or before January 20, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. in the District Court in Hugoton, Stevens County, Kansas, at which time and place the cause will be heard. Should you fail to file your written defenses, judgment and decree will be entered in due course upon the petition.

PUBLIC NOTICE (First published in The Hugoton Hermes, Thursday, December 15, 2016)3t IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF STEVENS COUNTY, KANSAS PROBATE DIVISION

NEED TO BUY, SELL OR TRADE?

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES M. FORD, DECEASED. Case No. 2016-PR-000032 THE STATE OF KANSAS TO ALL PERSONS CONCERNED:

TAKE A LOOK AT THE HUGOTON HERMES CLASSIFIEDS!

Call 544-4321or email hermesma@pld.com

to see YOUR ad here!

NOTICE OF HEARING Please take notice that a Petition was filed in the above Court by Enddy Bojorquez, an heir-at-law of Micaela Rascon Bojorquez, deceased, praying that Shirla McQueen be appointed as Administrator of the Estate of James M. Ford, deceased.

You are required to file your written defenses to the Petition on or before January 9, 2017 at 10:30 a.m., of said day, in said Court, in the district

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY

courtroom at the county courthouse in the City of Hugoton, Stevens County, Kansas, at which time and place said cause will be heard.

Should you fail therein, judgment and decree will be entered in due course upon the Petition.

All parties interested in the Estate will take notice and govern themselves accordingly. All creditors are notified to exhibit their demands against the Estate within four (4) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, as provide by law, and if their demands are not thus exhibited, they shall be forever barred.

LAWN PRO Will Schnittker

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LINDA CAROL DURAN, Executor BROLLIER, WOLF & KUHARIC Box 39, Hugoton, KS 67951 (620) 544-8555 Attorneys for Executor

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Enddy Bojorquez, Petitioner Brian C. Wright, #12874 WRIGHT LAW OFFICE, Chartered 4312 10th Street Place Great Bend, Kansas 67530 Tel: 620-793-8900 Fax: 620-793-8525 E-mail: brian@bcwrightlaw.com Attorney for Petitioner

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The Hugoton Hermes

December 29, 2016

Page 4B

Start a new tradition with a “First Day Hike” at State Parks We start each year with a sense of optimism – new year, new day, new beginning. So how about starting a new tradition that’s not only fun but healthy – start 2017 with a “First Day Hike” at one of Kansas’ 26 state parks.

Kansas state parks and trails are open year-round, and winter can be a fantastic time to visit; the winter landscape is beautiful, quiet and peaceful, wildlife species are visible as they busily search for food, and summer crowds are a distant memory.

If you’re not familiar with Kansas’ state park trails but would like to learn, you’ll find just what you’re looking for at a “First Day Hike” event.

“First Day Hike” events, in-

cluding guided hikes, educational programs and refreshments, will be conducted at 18 state parks this January.

Hikers should wear warm clothing and good trail footwear and bring water, a camera and binoculars. Pets are welcome, but must be leashed at all times. Don’t forget your favorite animal identification guides, too.

Find an event near you with the following list: Cedar Bluff State Park – This hike will feature the Agave Trail, which is rated as moderate and is five miles long. Hikers should meet at the Agave Trail trailhead at 9:00 a.m. Check Cedar Bluff State Park Facebook or call the park office, 785-726-

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Clinton State Park – This event will feature the North Shores Trail, which is rated as moderate and is two miles long. Hikers should meet at the Clinton State Park office at 1:00 p.m. Hikers must be at least five years old. For more information or cancellation notice, see Clinton State Park’s Facebook page or call the park office at 785-8428562.

Crawford State Park – This event will feature multiple trails rated easy to hike and are about one and a half miles long. Hikers and runners will meet at the Beach Shelter at 11:00 a.m. For more information or cancellation notice call the park office, 620-362-3671.

Cross Timbers State Park – Hike the Post Oak Trail, which is rated as easy and is a half mile long. Hikers should meet at the Post Oak Trailhead in Quarry Bay at :002 p.m. Hot chocolate will be provided. Check Cross Timbers State Park Facebook page or call the park office, 620-637-2213, for more information or cancellation notice.

Eisenhower State Park – This hike will feature the Archery, Bike and Scooter trails, which are rated easy to moderate and are one to two miles long. Hikers should meet at Five Star and West Point campgrounds at 10:00 a.m. Coffee will be provided.

Check Eisenhower State Park Facebook page or call the park office, 785-528-4102, for more information or cancellation notice.

El Dorado State Park – This hike will feature the Walnut River Trail which is rated as easy and is two miles long. Hikers should meet at the Walnut River Cabins at 1:00 p.m. Bottled water, hot chocolate and door prizes will be provided. Check the El Dorado State Park Facebook page or call the park office, 316-321-7180, for more information or cancellation notice.

Elk City State Park – Hike the South Squaw Trail, which is rated as easy and is 2.2 miles long. Meet at the Swimming Area parking lot at 10 a.m. Hot chocolate will be provided after the hike.

Check the Elk City State Park Facebook page or call the park office, 620-331-6295, for more information or cancellation notice.

Fall River State Park – This event will feature the Ancient Trees Trail. Hikers should meet at the trailhead on Toronto Point at 2:00 p.m.

The trail is rated as easy and is one mile long. Hot chocolate will be provided after the hike. Leashed pets are welcome. Check the Fall River State Park Facebook page or call the park office, 620-6372213, for more information or cancellation notice.

Green Property – Pratt – This event will feature the Green Recreation Trail. Hikers should meet at the barn/shop at 2:00 p.m. for a one-mile hike rated as easy.

Hot chocolate will be provided

after the hike. Call the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Operations Office, 620-6725911, for more information or cancellation notice.

Kanopolis State Park – Buffalo Track Canyon Nature Trail is two miles long and rated as moderate. Hikers should meet at the park office at 10:00 a.m. Call the park office, 785-546-2565, for more information or cancellation notice.

Meade State Park – This hike will feature the West Trail, which is rated easy and is one mile long. Hikers should meat the West Trail trailhead at 2:00 p.m. Call the park office for more information or cancellation notice, 620-873-2572.

Perry State Park – This hike will feature Skyline, Mad Mile and Daisy Point trails.

Hikers will meet at Perry State Park Biking/Hiking trailhead at 9:00 a.m. Trails are rated as easy to moderate and are two and a half to five and a half miles long.

Leashed pets are welcome.

Call the park office, (785) 246-3449, for more information and cancellation notice.

Pomona State Park – This hike will feature multiple areas. Hikers should meet at the Pomona State Park office at 12:30 p.m. Trails are rated as easy and are four and a half to five miles long. Visit the Pomona State Park Facebook page or call the park office, (785) 828-4933, for more information or cancellation notice.

Prairie Dog State Park – This hike will feature the Steve Mathes North Trail, which is rated as easy and is 1.4 miles long. Hikers should meet at the trailhead at 9:00 a.m. Check the Prairie Dog State Park Facebook page or call the park office, 785-8772953, for more information or cancellation notice.

Prairie Spirit Trail State Park – This event will feature the Prairie Spirit and Flint Hills trails. Hikers should meet at the Garnett Trailhead at 11:00 a.m. for the Prairie Spirit Trail hike, which is rated as easy. Hikers should meet at the large shelter in Ottawa’s Forest Park at 2:00 p.m. for the Flint Hills Trail hike.Visit the Prairie Spirit Trail Facebook page or contact the park office, 785-4482627, for more information or cancellation notice.

Sandhills State Park – This hike will feature the Dune and Prairie trails, which are rated as easy and are two miles long. Hikers should meet at the park office before 10:00 a.m. Hot chocolate and snacks will be provided after the hike. Visit the Sandhills State Park Facebook page or call the office, 620-665-6248, for more information or cancellation notice.

Tuttle Creek State Park – Western Heritage Trail, which is rated as easy and is two miles long. Hikers should meet at the Tuttle Creek State Park office at 3:30 p.m.

Visit the Tuttle Creek State Park Facebook page or call the park office, (785) 5397941, for more information or cancellation notice.

Wilson State Park – This hike will feature the Cedar Trail, which is rated as easy and is three quarter miles long. Hikers should meet at the Cedar Trail trailhead at 1:30 p.m. Visit the Wilson State Park Facebook page or call the office, 785-658-2465, for more information or cancellation notice.

For more information, visit: http://ksoutdoors. com/State-Parks/SpecialEvents/First-Day-Hikes.

Start the New Year with a healthy First Day Hike at a Kansas State Park.

Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission to meet in Emporia The Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission will conduct a public meeting Thursday, January 5, 2017 in Emporia at the Flint Hills Technical College, 3301 W 18th Ave. The afternoon session will begin at 1:00 p.m. and recess at 5:00 p.m. The evening session will convene at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend both sessions and time will be set aside for public comment at the beginning of each for discussion of non-agenda items.

The afternoon session will begin with a report on the agency and state fiscal status and a preview of the 2017 Kansas Legislative Session.

The General Discussion portion of the meeting will include the drawing for the Commission Big Game Permits, a Tourism Division update, and discussion on webless migratory bird regulations and waterfowl regulations.

The Workshop Session will include reviews of antelope, elk, public land, deer and big game permanent regulations.

The evening portion of the meeting will convene at 6:30 p.m. for the Public Hearing.

Commissioners will hear

dates for 2017 Free Park Entrance and Free Fishing Days set by Secretary’s Orders.

If necessary, the commission will reconvene at the same location at 9:00 a.m., January 6, to complete any unfinished business. Information about the Commission, as well as the January 5 meeting agenda and briefing book, can be downloaded at ksoutdoors.com/KDWPTInfo/Commission/Upcoming- Commission-Meetings.

Live video and audio streaming of the January 5 meeting will be available at ksoutdoors.com. If notified in advance, the department will have an interpreter available for the hearing impaired. To request an interpreter, call the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at 1-800-432-0698. Any individual with a disability may request other accommodations by contacting the Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission secretary at (620) 672-5911.

The next Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism commission meeting is scheduled for March 23, 2017, at the Capitol Plaza Hotel Conference Center in Topeka.

Unfilled 2016 deer permits can still be used in January. This is the last chance to put venison in the freezer.

Last chance for venison backstraps Time is running out for Kansas deer hunters. But unfilled 2016 deer permits can still be used to put venison in the freezer this January. January 1, 2017, all 2016 unfilled deer permits convert to Whitetail Antlerless-Only (WAO) permits; however, unit restrictions listed on the permits are still in effect. Additional WAO permits can still be purchased, and after Dec. 30, hunters are no longer required to possess a permit that allows the taking of an antlered deer to purchase antlerless permits.

In addition to an eithersex permit, hunters may purchase up to five additional WAO permits with unit and public land restrictions. The first WAO permit a hunter purchases is valid statewide (except Unit 18) on private land with landowner permission and on public lands. A hunter can purchase up to four additional WAO permits valid in Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7,

10A, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 19 on private land with landowner permission, on Walk-in Hunting Areas, and on Cedar Bluff, Glen Elder, Kanopolis, Kirwin, Lovewell, Norton, Webster and Wilson wildlife areas. Season lengths also vary based on unit location. See your 2016 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary, or visit ksoutdoors.com and click “Hunting/Big Game Information/Deer,” for details.

2017 Extended Firearm Season dates, by deer management units, are as follows: *January 1-2, 2017 – Units 6, 8, 9, 10, 16, 17 *January 1-8, 2017 – Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 11, 12, 13, and 14 *January 1-15, 2017 – Units 10A, 15, and 19: No WAO permits are valid in Unit 18 (southwest).

There is also an Extended WAO Archery Season in DMU 19 January 16-31, 2017.

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