The Scott County Record

The new Scott City Middle School mascot helps lead cheers during Monday’s home game

32 Pages • Four Sections

Volume 21 • Number 26

Thursday, February 6, 2014

Published in Scott City, Ks.

$1 single copy

Council says local residence must move

Chief Hoover Fire Chief Ken Hoover has served more than 50 years on the Scott City fire department. (Record Photo)

Scott City fire chief has been on call for the past 50 years When a fire threatened the family business more than 50 years ago, Ken Hoover couldn’t have imagined the incident would lead to one of the longest careers in firefighting in Kansas.

At the time, Hoover was working in the family electrical business with his father and brother. The business was located at the southwest corner of US83/K96 highways in Scott City where it adjoined the City Cafe.

Shortly before midnight on Dec. 30, 1963, a fire broke out in the cafe which

eventually led to the building being razed to make way for First National Bank. If the fire hadn’t been contained it would have spread to Hoover Electric, which was located on the west end of the same building.

“We had a stove inside where the firemen would come in and warm themselves when taking a break from the fire,” says Hoover. “A week later (fire chief) Virgil Storm contacted me and said they were needing extra firemen. Since I’d helped the guys the night of the fire, he asked if

I wanted to become a member and I figured ‘Why not?’”

Even though his brother, Harold, was already a member of the city department, Ken says it wasn’t something he had thought about until approached by Storm.

On January 7, Hoover officially became a volunteer with the Scott City Fire Department. Seventeen years later, on March 3, 1981, he became the fire chief.

“It’s been quite an experience,” says Hoover, who is approaching 32 years (See CHIEF on page eight)

perspective, the droughts of the 1930s and the 1950s pale in comparison to the megadroughts that this area has experienced,” says Tony Layzell, a research assistant with the Kansas Geological Survey who spoke at the Scott County Conservation District meeting on Saturday.

These major droughts have been identified through tree ring data that has been compiled and analyzed over the past 1,000 years. This data reveals that Kansas and the High Plains region have experienced droughts of greater severity and longer duration than was seen during the 1930s and 1950s.

Based on that history, the High Plains will experience an average of four droughts every 100 years that will rival the 1950s. There will be two droughts over that same period (See DROUGHT on page 32)

406 Main, St. Scott City • 620-872-2090 www.scottcountyrecord.com

SCHS to host winter Homecoming, crowning on Friday Page 9

(See COUNCIL on page two)

Snow, at last

Dust Bowl barely rates among worst droughts in Kansas If you think the Dust Bowl of the 1930s or the drought that gripped the High Plains in the mid-1950s were severe, then think again.

They are relatively mild - at least in terms of duration - when one takes a longer look at the history of Kansas and the central U.S. In fact, they don’t compare with a drought in north-central Kansas that lasted 110 years.

So, why haven’t we heard more about these weather phenomenon and the huge impact they had on people and the economy?

Because civilization as we know it didn’t exist then.

One has to go back several hundred years to find the worst droughts in Kansas, based on historical data compiled by the Kansas Geological Survey and climate scientists.

“When you look at a longer

The occupants of a fifth-wheel trailer that had been their home for several months have been asked to relocate their residence because it is in violation of city ordinance.

Kelly Robbins appeared before the Scott City Council on Monday evening to “throw myself at the mercy of the council” after being sent a letter informing her the fifth-wheel will have to be moved.

The fifth-wheel is located next to the Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center where Robbins and David Fyler, who share the residence, are the directors. According to Robbins, they had initially been informed by the city’s building inspector in the fall of 2012 the fifth-wheel could be located at the site and it was subsequently hooked up to city utilities.

In the spring of 2013, Robbins says they were then informed the fifth-wheel would have to be moved since it violated city ordinance which doesn’t allow a residence in an area zoned commercial unless that residence is on the second floor of a building.

“We were then advised by (City Attorney) John Shirley not to do anything until we heard from him,” Robbins said. “We never heard back, so we assumed everything was okay.”

In the meantime, city officials say a letter was sent to Fyler and Robbins in June advising them to move the fifth-wheel. Robbins said they never received the letter.

Two inches of snow and a day off from school provided the perfect opportunity for sixyear-old Emma Powelson to enjoy some sledding at Maddux Park on Wednesday afternoon.

(Record Photo)

406 Main, St. Scott City • 620-872-2090 www.scottcountyrecord.com Opinion • Pages 4-5 Calendar • Page 7 Opinion poll • Page 7 LEC report • Page 10 Health • Pages 12-13

Deaths • Page 15 SCHS honor roll • Page 16 Sports • Pages 17-24 Farm section • Pages 26-27 Classified ads • Pages 29-31

Scott City boys survive tough test at Liberal Page 17

The Scott County Record • Page 2 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

City restricts 12th St. parking near Dollar General Less than two weeks after Dollar General relocated to their new building at the corner of US83/12th Street in Scott City, complaints have started coming in.

The Scott City Council dis-

cussed traffic issues which have arisen at the site, primarily due to 12th Street (on the south) which is narrow and the ability of vehicles to enter and exit the parking lot from a single drivein onto 12th Street.

“There are vehicles parking on 12th Street and it’s too narrow,” noted Councilman Gary Eitel during Monday’s meeting.

Vehicles parked on the street, combined with those using the one entrance, are creating safety issues for vehicles that are

stopped on US83 and waiting to turn west onto 12th Street.

City Attorney John Shirley advised the council that a second entrance on US83 Highway wasn’t permitted by the Kansas Department of Transportation.

In hopes of reducing congestion the council instructed that signs be posted which prohibit parking on the south side of 12th Street from US83 to Court Street and prohibit parking in the one-half block west of US83 on the north side of 12th Street.

Swimming pool manager resigns; city extends application deadline Having been advised that Cheryl Kucharik will not apply for the job of swimming pool manager for the upcoming year, the Scott City Council has decided to extend the job application process for an additional two weeks, until Feb. 14.

Kucharik has been a long-time pool manager, but hinted to the council she may not seek the position again this year. She didn’t make the decision official until after the deadline for applications.

The city received one application for manager and one for assistant manager, but neither was opened at Monday’s meeting.

“There’s a chance that other people may apply for the position if they know that Cheryl isn’t applying,” noted City Clerk Brenda Davis. “Most people are going to assume that it was her job as long as she wanted it.”

Applications for manager and assistant manager will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. on Fri., Feb. 14.

Approve Banners The council approved the purchase

Council “We assumed you were ignoring us,” said Mayor Dan Goodman.

“I can understand why you would think that and it certainly wasn’t our intent,” replied Robbins.

“What we did was in good faith based on what we’d been told.”

Robbins appeared at the last council meeting in response to another letter from the city that was received on Jan. 27.

She said they would prefer keeping the fifthwheel at its current location and asked if it was possible to apply for a zoning variance. Shirley

of 30 new light pole banners that will have a sunflower design to be located along US83 Highway at a cost of $2,040.

The only objection was raised by Councilman Fred Kuntzsch who said that a snowflake design, which is a banner the city already has, or the sunflowers “mean nothing.”

“Why not promote something about your town?” asked Kuntzsch. “That would be money well spent.”

Appoint Committees Mayor Goodman made appointments to two committees - one to evaluate recently adopted changes to water rates and the other to evaluate the creation of a full-time financial clerk position at City Hall. Committee assignments include: Water rates: Council members Josh Gooden, Perry Nowak, Jack Schmitt and Everett Green, and Public Works Director Mike Todd.

Financial clerk: Council members Fred Kuntzsch, Bo Parkinson, Gary Eitel and Jon Brunswig, and City Clerk Brenda Davis.

(continued from page one)

advised her that a variance couldn’t be allowed for the purpose she would be requesting.

Robbins said they have made arrangements to relocate the trailer to a different site in town.

However, the violation of city ordinance also raises another issue for the WKCAC. According to guidelines regarding the distribution of sales tax grants, an organization is not eligible if it is in violation of city ordinances.

Because of Robbins’ and Fyler’s connection to WKCAC, the organiza-

tion was declared ineligible for a sales tax grant in 2014.

In 2013, WKCAC received $28,000 through the grant program.

“We’re in the process of addressing this situation and we don’t want the Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center to be held liable for something we did,” Robbins urged the council.

The council agreed to allow WKCAC to apply for a grant if the fifthwheel is removed by the time the first distribution of funding is made on April 1.

What’s for Lunch in Scott City?

Sun. - Sat., Feb. 9-15

Majestic Theatre 420 Main • 872-3840

Hours

Lunch • Tues., Wed., Thurs., Fri. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Evenings • Thurs., Fri., Sat. 5:30 p.m.-10:00 p.m.

Tues. • Open faced prime rib sandwich with fries, $10.95 Wed. • Chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and gravy, $6.95 Thurs. • Chicken and noodles with mashed potatoes, $6.95 Fri. • Taco dinner with rice and beans, $6.95

What’s for Supper?

The Broiler

1211 Main • 872-3215

5Buck Lunch 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

• Chili Cheese Dog • 1/4 lb Cheeseburger • 3 Piece Chicken Strips

Includes Fries, 21 oz. Drink and Small Sundae

102 Main St. • 872-5055 1304 S. Main • 872-5301

6

$

Mon. • Sat. 5:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sun. • 5:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Mon.• Chicken fry

49

Buffet

11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Tues.• Hamburger steak with mushrooms and onions Wed.• Fried chicken Thurs.• Mountain oysters Fri.• Seafood specials Sat. • Prime rib

Breakfast specials every night.

The Scott County Record

Community Living

Page 3 - Thursday, February 6, 2014

Understanding the carb factor in your diet This is the time of year when many people decided to go on diets - either to lose some of those holiday pounds or to prepare for spring weather which isn’t that far away (really, I promise).

When choosing a diet plan, you may come across low-carb, carbsmart, carb-wise or carbfit which are marketing terms used to sell reducedcarbohydrate food products.

There are no federal regulations to define these marketing terms and with the absence of an official definition, “low-carb” can be interpreted in many ways.

These terms may mean that the product has fewer carbs than a comparable product or it may mean that it contains a specific amount of carbohydrates per serving.

There are many foods that are naturally low in carbs, but the manufacture might use some of the “low-carb” terms on its labels to catch a carb-conscious consumer’s eye.

Some food labels use

Aspertame safe for general population Many low-calorie foods, diet beverages and even chewing gum contain the ingredient aspartame, a sugar substitute or artificial sweetener. Consumers can also buy the product in bulk at their local supermarkets to use for baking or adding sweetness to their morning oatmeal or coffee, for example.

Aspartame, which was approved as a safe food ingredient by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) more than 30 years ago, has served as a popular alternative to sugar, but it has also caused some concern.

Does consuming an artificial ingredient like aspartame harm a person’s health over time?

A report published in December 2013 by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) shows an extensive re-evaluation of aspartame as a food additive.

The EFSA’s panel on food additives and nutrient sources added to food concluded that aspartame and its breakdown products are safe for the general population to consume at a level previously established - that is, 40-50 milligrams (mg) per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day.

That safe level applies to the general popula-

tion, including infants, children, adults and pregnant women, said Mary Meck Higgins, a registered dietitian with Kansas State University Extension.

Aspartame is sold under various brand names that include Equal and NutraSweet. It is 200 times sweeter than sugar, so just a little bit of that white powder is going to make food very sweet.

Putting in Perspective Because a little bit of aspartame goes a long way, most people don’t come close to reaching the maximum daily safe level.

The FDA sets its aspartame standard at 50 mg/ kg of body weight per day. The European standard is 40 mg/kg.

The expert panel that completed the recent report estimated that people who take in the highest level of aspartame consume about 36 mg/kg, which is still under the safe level.

As an example, following the 40 mg/kg guideline, Higgins said someone who weighs 200 pounds could consume 3,600 mg of aspartame per day. A 12-ounce can of diet soda has about 180 mg of aspartame, depending on the brand.

Eitel birthday reception Sun.

Donna Jean (Sperling) Eitel will celebrate her 80th birthday on Sun., Feb. 9.

Donna’s four daughters are Jynette Gibbs and and husband, Phil, Susan Wiechman, Kendra Kendrick and husband, Brett, and Denise Murphy and husband, Melvin, all of Scott City.

She has a step-daughter, Janet Hyatt, Oklahoma City, and a step-son, Gary Eitel and wife, Deandra, Scott City.

A reception will be held Sunday from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Bryan Conference Center, Scott City.

Cards can be mailed to 1207 Russell, Scott City, Ks. 67871.

the term “net-carbs” or “effective carbs.” Again, no government or generally agreed-upon definition exists for this terminology, but it is often used as the result when fiber and certain sweeteners, such as sugar alcohols and glycerin are subtracted from the total carbohydrate content.

Carbs vs Calories Reducing carbohydrates may make sense as a calorie-cutting tactic for people whose diets largely comprise foods such as sweets, sweetened beverages and baked goods.

It makes little sense,

however, to reject wholesome, nutrient-dense foods such as fortified and whole grains, fruits and vegetables in favor of protein- and fat-rich foods or special foods low in carbohydrates.

Obviously, not only the quantity, but also the quality of carbohydrates must be considered.

One thing still remains, - calories still count. Just because food is called low-carb doesn’t mean it’s lower in calories.

Often times, when a food is reduced in carbohydrates they have fewer calories than their counterparts. Always check the

news briefs

Area groups host feeds

The Healy United Methodist men will be hosting their annual pancake and sausage supper on Sat., Feb. 8, starting at 5:30 p.m.

Cost is a free-will donation.

The Prairie View Church of the Brethren, Friend, will host a soup supper on Sun., Feb. 9, 5:00-8:00 p.m.

The menu will include chicken noodle soup or chili.

Proceeds from the free-will offering will be used to purchase a van for the Dayspring Outreach Ministries, a March mission trip and to assist Sherri Brungardt with transportation costs to medical appointments.

Purchase ‘Singing Valentine’

The Scott City Middle School seventh grade choir will be delivering “Singing Valentines” on Thurs., Feb. 13, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For $15 an individual can have two songs, a card and flower delivered to their favorite valentine.

To place an order call the SCMS office (8727640) between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Town Hall meeting Feb. 15

A town hall meeting with State Sen. Mitch Holmes (33rd District) and State Rep. Don Hineman (118th District) will be held on Sat., Feb. 15, 1:00-2:00 p.m., at the Scott County Library conference room.

Sr. Citizen Lunch Menu Week of February 10-14 Monday: Smothered steak, scalloped potatoes, spinach salad, whole wheat bread, citrus fruit cup.

Tuesday: Porcupine meatballs, rice, hot marinated tomatoes, whole wheat bread, blueberry gelatin salad.

Wednesday: Oven fried chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, whole wheat roll, creamy fruit salad.

Thursday: Beef stew or chili, carrots, pineapple tidbits, crackers, cinnamon roll.

Friday: Sausage gravy, mashed potatoes, capri vegetables, biscuit, strawberries and pears. meals are $3.25 • call 872-3501

Nutrition Facts Panel to compare the caloric content of the food.

How do manufactures make foods that have been typically high in carbohydrates low-carb? They use a variety of methods.

They might increase the amount of animal or vegetable protein, such as replacing wheat or corn flour with soy flour. They might increase the amount of fiber. They might use sugar substitutes or sugar alcohols in place or traditional sweeteners. Or they might suggest a smaller portion.

Examples of the products that might be modified include breads, pas-

tas, cereals, soft drinks, fruit drinks and frozen desserts.

A word of caution: foods that use a sugar alcohol to replace a natural sweetener have a laxative effect. If they are consumed in large quantities, they might cause cramping, diarrhea or other digestive discomforts.

The solution to the problem of being overweight remains the same: a combination of eating fewer calories and increasing physical activity is the key to weight loss.

For more information, contact the Extension office (872-2930).

The Scott County Record

Editorial/Opinion

Page 4 - Thursday, February 6, 2014

editorially speaking

Chief:

Ken Hoover represents devotion to community

When you examine what makes some communities more successful than others, it’s because they are blessed with citizens who share a commitment to making things better and who want to be part of that process. They take pride in being involved in their community and giving back when possible.

While there are numerous individuals in Scott City who share that sense of community, few have been as committed to the process as Ken Hoover.

Joining the Scott City Fire Department shortly after he turned 28, he recently reached a 50-year milestone as a volunteer fireman. For nearly 32 years (and counting) he has been the city fire chief.

That’s a pretty remarkable achievement and testimony to how much Hoover cares about the department and his community.

The in-house training, regional fire schools and calls to local emergencies demand a lot of time and preparation. First as a volunteer firefighter and now as a chief for more than three decades, Hoover has been committed to that process and to making sure his department is prepared.

Over the past 50 years, Hoover has learned to take the good with the bad; success and tragedy.

It’s part of the job, says Hoover.

There’s no doubt that Hoover would claim that he’s been fortunate to serve the people of Scott City. We would argue that Scott City is fortunate to have someone who cares so much about his job and his community.

Blind opposition:

Being against government regulation isn’t a solution

In a perfect world, government regulations wouldn’t be necessary because all people and businesses would do what’s best without the need for oversight by a third party.

Of course, we don’t live in a perfect world.

That’s why the automobile industry was eventually forced to adopt safety regulations, prompted

by Ralph Nader’s “Unsafe at Any Speed.” That’s why we have meat inspectors at packing plants.

And it’s also why the government has regulations that determine how food is prepared at restaurants to how we care for our elderly in nursing homes.

We may not agree with every law that comes out of Washington, D.C., or Topeka, but our society couldn’t function without them.

However, that sentiment isn’t shared by all.

Contrary to the right-wing perspective, government doesn’t sit around trying to imagine ways it can interfere in our lives. Often times, government is the only ones who can operate on a scale large enough to provide a solution and in a way that isn’t profit-motivated.

Social Security was in response to millions of people who had no means of support during the economic collapse of the Great Depression.

The Civil Rights Act was in response to discrimination which should not be tolerated on any scale or in any corner of our nation.

Obamacare was in response to nearly 50 million Americans who were without health insurance.

The EPA, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, SNAP and much, much more were created with good intent. They aren’t always perfect.

Sometimes laws are poorly written or sloppily enforced, but rarely is the original intent misplaced.

That’s not enough to satisfy the political right who are constantly critical of government, especially when it forces business and industry to comply with regulations meant to ensure workplace safety and protect the environment.

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt has made it his mission to prevent the state from complying with Obamacare, even with about 365,000 Kansans who lack insurance coverage. When he’s not making it more difficult for thousands of Kansans to vote, Secretary of State Kris Kobach wants Kansas to exempt itself from federal laws protecting the Lesser Prairie Chicken.

These politicians offer no solutions other than to eliminate well-intentioned laws.

We saw what happens to a major drinking water supply in West Virginia in the absence of EPA regulations.

Hospital emergency rooms have experienced what happens in the absence of health insurance coverage.

Less government makes a great sound bite, but it fails to recognize there are situations where we need government. It fails to recognize that the free enterprise system is focused on profits, not what’s always best for people.

The actions of Schmidt, Kobach and Company are pretty hollow unless they can offer something better than “Trust us. We know what’s best.”

If that were true, government regulations wouldn’t have been necessary in the first place.

Technology in the wrong hands

We are apparently living in a time when respect for the office of the President of the U.S. and proper etiquette during the President’s State of the Union speech are no longer necessary.

Republicans have used the SOTU as an opportunity to yell “You lie” (Rep. Joe Wilson, S.C.), walk out during the middle of the speech (Rep. Steve Stockman, Texas) and to send endless tweets (Rep. Tim Huelskamp, Ks.) even as the President is delivering his message to the nation.

Most people we know aren’t that inconsiderate - or ignorant - during a grade school music program, let alone a President’s speech before Congress.

Of course, this is less about the President and his policies and more about insignificant Congressmen trying to turn the spotlight - even for a moment - onto themselves and give the appearance they are powerful enough to defy and ridicule the President.

There must be some psychological explanation for this syndrome though we aren’t quite sure what it would be. We’d have to defer to our sixth grade teacher who, on a good day, would refer to such individuals as “class clowns.” On a not-sogood day she would simply identify such attempts to bring attention to oneself as “asinine.”

She wasn’t much into psychology.

Our own Congressman Huelskamp repeatedly demonstrated why opposable thumbs separate us from lower life forms - physically if not intellectually - with his steady stream of tweets that made reference to the “new imperial presidency” and that the EPA and Obamacare are what “kills the middle class.”

That’s the beauty of a 140-character limit when sending tweets.

One doesn’t need to demonstrate any level of insight or explain what they mean. Tap out a few words that are like red meat to hungry Tea Party wolves and move onto the next mind-numbing tweet.

No President has been a victim of technology - and its misuse - like Obama. That’s to be expected when you put some new toy into the hands of people who have yet to appreciate the boundaries to which it should be used or to which it becomes annoying to others. It’s like the individual who carries on a conversation using their cell phone in a restaurant or an elevator, apparently oblivious to the fact that the rest of us have no interest in their world.

It makes us wonder how our esteemed Congressman Huelskamp would have conducted himself during George Washington’s State of the Union speech when he addressed the Congress.

Huelskamp’s parchment tweets might have read: “Can’t believe the way people admire this guy. We traded one King

George for another King George. We didn’t win a thing.”

“That’s quite a shine coming off his teeth. Must have used some wood polish this morning.”

“Commander in Chief?

Are you kidding? A real commander would take this war to Great Britain while we have them on the run.”

“Heard an idea in committee today about building a canal through the U.S. that will carry maple syrup from Canada. Will create 100 jobs. I’m on board.”

“Valley Forge. Small pox. Dysentery. Malnourished troops. Let’s end the cover-up, George. Tell us what really happened.” * * * Or during a Franklin D. Roosevelt SOTU: “Works Progress Administration. You mean taxpayer subsidized work.

If these people really want a job they can find one.”

“Social Security. Are you kidding me? Sounds like the worst idea since sliced bread.”

(See HANDS on page six)

The top 1% are not the victims

An ugly outbreak of whiny victimhood is ravaging some of America’s most exclusive Zip codes.

It’s as if some one-percenters suddenly fear that old warning: “When the people shall have nothing more to eat, they will eat the rich.”

Not to worry. The hoi polloi would much rather have a Big Mac - and also a job that pays a living wage, with sick leave, health insurance, vacation time and retirement.

There was a time when even rich people agreed that these were laudable ambitions. Now, working to put these goals within reach of more Americans amounts to persecution of the wealthy, according to besieged one-percenters and their defenders.

Last week, in a nowinfamous letter to the Wall Street Journal, legendary San Francisco venture

Where to Write

another view by Eugene Robinson

capitalist Tom Perkins compared “the progressive war on the American one percent, namely the ‘rich’ ” to the persecution of Jews in Nazi Germany. He went so far as to warn that an anti-rich “Kristallnacht” may be coming, referring to the night in 1938 when Jewish-owned stores, homes, hospitals, schools and synagogues were smashed throughout Germany and Austria.

As evidence, Perkins cited the Occupy movement; the fact that some people resent how Silicon Valley tech workers have driven up real estate prices and how they ride to work in special buses; and the “demonization of the rich embedded in virtually every word of our

Gov. Sam Brownback 2nd Floor - State Capitol Topeka, Ks. 66612-1501 (785) 296-3232

local newspaper, the San Francisco Chronicle.”

He cited the Chronicle’s having called novelist Danielle Steel a “snob” despite her charity work.

He neglected to mention that Steel is his former wife.

Perkins later apologized for the Kristallnacht reference but stuck to the rest of his thesis. He told Bloomberg TV that the solution to inequality is lower taxes, said he understands his critics because “I have members of my own family in trailer parks, not immediate relatives but family.”

“The fact that everyone now hates me is part of the game,” he added.

The whole episode could be easily dismissed.

If I had a dollar for every crank letter to the editor that gets published, I’d be as rich as Perkins and maybe as delusional.

Sen. Pat Roberts 109 Hart Senate Office Bldg.

Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-4774 roberts.senate.gov/email.htm

But the Wall Street Journal weighed in with an editorial headlined “Perkinsnacht.” The newspaper wholeheartedly endorsed Perkins’s thesis that there is what he called “a rising tide of hatred of the successful one percent” - while expressing reservations only about his “unfortunate, albeit provocative” language.

Oh dear. I know several members of the Journal’s editorial board personally, and while we often disagree, it’s not as if they are raving lunatics. They are just believers in capitalism (which is great) and trickle-down economic policy (which by now should be thoroughly discredited).

So I began to wonder: Why does the national conversation we’re beginning to have about inequality make some (See VICTIMS on page six)

Sen. Jerry Moran 141 Hart Senate Office Bldg.

Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-6521 www.house.gov/moranks01/

Ag in the TPP: repeating NAFTA’s mistakes

The Scott County Record • Page 5 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

by Karen Hansen-Kuhn

Farmers, union, environmental and women’s activists gathered in Mexico City last week to take stock of the lessons from NAFTA and plan strategies to confront the next big threat: the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP).

One of the earliest lessons from the NAFTA experience was that people and environments in all three countries were affected. The stories from Mexico, Canada and the U.S. were remarkably similar: environmental destruction, threats to union and community organizing, and, in all sectors, a marked increase in corporate concentration as companies gained new abilities to move different aspects of production across borders in search of lower costs and higher profits.

More than 65,000 people rallied to demand a new economy

that puts equality, justice and human rights first.

This has been especially true in agriculture. As part of the multisectoral forum, more than 100 members of ANEC, (the National Association of Rural Commercialization Enterprises, which brings together more than 60,000 Mexican small- and medium-scale farmers), organized a farmers’ forum with international allies. Alberto Arroyo, a longtime leader in the Mexican Action Network on Free Trade (RMALC), explained that Mexico’s dependency on food imports has increased dramatically since the agreement began, from 16 percent before NAFTA, to more than 42 percent today.

That situation is even more alarming when we consider that today nearly half of Mexican families, even with two wage

Adding on to the devastation wreaked on the countryside by the influx of cheap corn under NAFTA, TPP would compel Mexican coffee farmers to compete with cheap Vietnamese robusta coffee.

earners, can’t afford the “canasta basica,” or basic necessities.

Adding on to the devastation wreaked on the countryside by the influx of cheap corn under NAFTA, TPP would compel Mexican coffee farmers to compete with cheap Vietnamese robusta coffee.

Doug Peterson from the U.S. National Farmers’ Union echoed those concerns. None of us is against trade, he said, but how that happens, and what the rules are, really do matter.

He highlighted intellectual property rights proposals in TPP that would grant enormous new rights over seeds and

other inputs to already powerful transnational corporations. NFU is concerned that those rights would be extended to patents on animal husbandry, expanding Monsanto’s dominance over seeds to breeding rights.

In general, he said, what we really need are stable public policies to balance innovations in agriculture with food justice.

Victor Suarez, the leader of ANEC, emphasized the importance of rebuilding ties among farmers and consumers, unions and environmentalists. The TPP negotiations are forcing Mexicans to fight some of the same battles that came up during the NAFTA debate.

The privatization of the Mexican ejido system of communal land owning, which the government liberalized as a precondition for NAFTA, is once again on the table. The 1991 reforms allowed existing ejidos

to remain under community control, but new agricultural reforms announced in January would put those farms on a “fast track” for privatization, expelling thousands of small-scale farmers from their lands.

Investment rules in NAFTA support changes in laws on land and mineral rights, often carried out in the dead of night, that devastate communities’ rights to natural resources. Plans to carry out a “second green revolution” in Mexico will increase pressure to use GMO seeds, as well as chemical fertilizers that will poison the soil and water so that they will not support sustainable agriculture, Suarez told participants.

People in all three countries, he said, need to work together to recover sovereignty over our food, seeds and land.

(See MISTAKES on page six)

Evidence of climate change across the U.S.

by Jill Richardson

The world’s 10 warmest years on record occurred “It’s been a bit cold here,” my after the year 2000, accorddad told me on a recent phone ing to NASA and the National call. He lives in Chicago; I’m in Oceanic and Atmospheric San Diego.

Administration (NOAA).

Banksters never have to apologize

by Jim Hightower

The funny thing about Wall Street banksters is that they make a killing by defrauding millions of homeowners, customers, investors, and taxpayers - then, when caught, they wonder why we don’t love them.

That’s “funny” as in bizarre, not as in ha-ha.

Still, it’s hard not to laugh at Jamie Dimon, the vainglorious, silver-haired boss of the JPMorgan Chase house of banksters.

Last year alone the bank racked up a record level of regulatory fines for the recidivist criminal operation overseen by the boss.

A little self-reproachment might have done him some good, but Dimon chose a funny way (again meaning bizarre) to

express remorse: He’s been running a feel-sorry-for-me campaign, claiming that he’s the victim of this sordid story!

Never mind his long rap sheet of malfeasance and incompetence, which cost so many so much, Jamie wails that everything from Wall Street’s bailout to the pay of top bank executives have made people envious of bankers’ success.

Thus, he moans, an anti-Wall Street sentiment has spread through the public, prompting politicians and regulators to pander to this populist anger by persecuting enterprising bankers like him. He called the whole thing “unfair.”

Good grief. This guy builds bank profits through rip-offs, piles billions of dollars in fines

on the backs of shareholders, pockets $20 million in personal pay for one year’s work - and he wants us to weep for him? Being a Wall Street boss, you see, means never having to say you’re sorry, for it’s always someone else’s fault.

Only 25 years ago, more than a thousand bankers were prosecuted for this sort of malfeasance during the savings and loan scandal. Let’s return to the ethical accountability of those days.

Or maybe We the People should send our own message to today’s banksters by rolling a guillotine down the center of Wall Street.

Jim Hightower is a national radio commentator, writer, public speaker and author

The next time I turned on the news, I saw headlines screaming “Polar Vortex!” with subzero temperatures across the Midwest.

Dad’s known in our family for his stoicism and even keel, but his understatement about the weather was a bit much, even for him. Surely he’s noticed that the weather has taken a turn from its normal Chicago standard of freezing and windy to hypothermia-inducing temperatures so cold that even the polar bear at the zoo couldn’t take it anymore.

I realize that, in such times, we San Diegoans are universally hated by most of the rest of the country. Nobody sheds a tear for me when I complain about there being only a few days in the 90s amid our normal wintery perfection of 70s and sunny.

I feel like a kid who’s been told Christmas is canceled because the drought we’re suffering will hurt this year’s crop of wildflowers. But the lack of snapdragons and lupines I look forward to each year is nothing compared to the other catastrophic impacts of California’s drought.

Half of the fruits, nuts and vegetables grown in the U.S. are grown in California. And growing them requires water. Our annual rainfall also helps mitigate

the risk of wildfires like last year’s massive Rim Fire.

And those are just two major impacts of the drought on humans. Who knows which endangered species could be pushed over the edge by the lack of moisture?

Across the nation, the weather this winter is strange. And yet, some feel that the cold temperatures are proof that “global warming” is not upon us after all.

The term “global warming” refers to the average increase in global temperatures. The key word in that sentence is “average.” If you average the wealth of Bill Gates with your own holdings and my own, then on average we are billionaires. But I’m still broke.

Accordingly, the world can heat up and freak polar vortexes can cause record lows in most of the lower 48 at the same time.

The world’s 10 warmest years on record occurred after the year 2000, according to NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

That’s why it makes more sense to use the term “climate change.” After all, the phenomenon caused by increased levels of greenhouse gases in the atmo(See CLIMATE on page six)

O’Reilly’s interview shows nation still divided Bill O’Reilly’s Super Bowl interview of President Obama was extraordinarily revealing not because of what the president said but because of what the interviewer did.

The Fox News host and purveyor of anti-Obama sentiment was given 10 minutes to question the man he decries to millions nightly. O’Reilly devoted nearly 40 percent of his time to the attacks on U.S. facilities in Benghazi, 30 percent to the Obamacare rollout and 20 percent to IRS targeting.

Along the way, he interrupted the president 42 times, by my count - although, given the amount O’Reilly spoke, it may be more accurate to say Obama was interrupting him.

Sometimes he argued with Obama as though the president

behind the headlines by Dana Milbank

were a guest on “The O’Reilly Factor.” Of the 2,500 words uttered during the interview, O’Reilly spoke nearly 1,000 of them.

This was O’Reilly’s third such session with Obama - and as such it served as a milepost on the conservative movement’s road to Obama hysteria.

O’Reilly’s first sitdown with Obama, in 2008, was a lengthy and affectionate encounter. The second meeting, another Super Bowl interview in 2011, had its share of interruptions, but there was lighthearted banter and the questions were more neutral

(“What is it about the job that has surprised you the most?”).

But this time, O’Reilly gave only a passing pleasantry at the end (“I think your heart is in the right place”) and otherwise was hostile from the start. He leaned forward in his seat, waving his pen and pointing his finger at the president. He shook his head doubtfully at some of Obama’s answers.

Here he was “asking” Obama about whether the Benghazi killings were a terrorist attack: Obama: “By definition, Bill, when somebody is attacking our compound — ” O’Reilly: “Yes?” Obama: “ — that’s an act of terror, which is how I characterized it the day after it happened. So the — so the question ends up being who, in fact, was

attacking us?”

O’Reilly: “But it’s more than that — ” Obama: “And that — ” O’Reilly: “ — though — ” Obama: “ — well, we — ” O’Reilly: “ — because of Susan Rice.”

Obama: “No, it — ” O’Reilly: “It’s more than that, because if Susan Rice goes out and tells the world that it was a spontaneous demonstration . . . ” Obama: “Bill — ” O’Reilly: “ — off a videotape but your . . . ” Obama: “Bill . . . ” O’Reilly: “ — your commanders and the secretary of defense know it’s a terror attack ...”

Obama: “Now, Bill . . . ” O’Reilly: “Just . . . ”

Obama: “ — Bill . . . ” O’Reilly: “ — as an American . . . ” Obama: “ — Bill — Bill . . . ” O’Reilly: “ — I’m just confused.”

Obama: “And I’m — and I’m trying to explain it to, if you want to listen.”

O’Reilly did not want to listen. He wanted to inform Obama that “I’m paying Kathleen Sebelius’s salary and she screwed up, and you’re not holding her accountable.” He all but demanded that Obama confess that his “you can keep your health insurance” promise was the biggest mistake of his presidency.

“Oh, Bill, you’ve got a long list of my mistakes of my presidency,” Obama demurred.

(See DIVIDED on page six)

The Scott County Record • Page 6 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Don’t miss opportunity to satisfy the ‘hunger’

by John Schrock

“Look at that little boy,” I whispered to my wife as we stood in the grocery line many years ago. “He is so hungry to learn.”

My wife glanced over to the youngster clinging to his mother in the far aisle. “He’s just a normal boy.” She dismissed my judgement that the child was in any way exceptional.

So I am a little crazy.

But I still think I can see a hunger-to-learn - in some kid’s eyes, the manner they inspect the world, their “look.”

Then in 1994, the PBS NOVA program ran a documentary “Secret of a Wild Child.” It is the sad story of a little girl “Genie” who was isolated for 12 years in a dark attic. She had no interactions with the outside world. She had no one to speak to. She had never learned to talk.

“There, that’s the look!”

I shouted for my wife to come watch. I pointed to the screen. This was the most extreme case of the “hunger-to-learn” look I had ever seen. My wife agreed.

Anyone could see her intense desire to examine her new world. Even a

Coke’s Super Bowl ad causes confusion

by Andy Borowitz

ATLANTA (The Borowitz Report) - The Coca-Cola Company ignited a firestorm of controversy on Sunday with a Super Bowl ad that appeared to make the inflammatory claim that other languages besides English exist.

From coast to coast, viewers reacted with outrage and horror to what many were calling the most incendiary Super Bowl ad in history.

“I was enjoying the Super Bowl with my family, and suddenly, out of nowhere, comes this ad suggesting that there are other languages that aren’t English,” said Carol Foyler, a mother of three from Akron, Ohio. “I grabbed the remote and turned it off. My kids shouldn’t be exposed to garbage that’s just going to confuse them.”

The Alliance for Responsible Advertising, a conservative watchdog group that monitors advertising it considers offensive and unfit for family viewing, issued a statement demanding that Coke apologize for the controversial ad and promise never to air it again.

“Last night, Coke assaulted millions of Americans with its misguided and inappropriate view that other languages exist,” the statement said. “In the future, we strongly hope that Coke will keep its crazy theories to itself.”

Andy Borowitz is a comedian and author

Climate

(continued from page five)

sphere can sometimes manifest itself in ways that don’t involve warmer-than-usual weather every single day.

We can expect the changing climate to dish out more weather extremes than before - including extremely cold and snowy winter weather.

But climate change sounds almost benign. It doesn’t convey the disaster at hand. The climate is just changing. No biggie.

That’s why I prefer the term “climate crisis.” It removes the idea that we won’t have winter extremes but adds the notion that this change is, in fact, a major problem.

We’re seeing the beginning of climate change in our country, and we’re getting such an insignificant taste of it that many Americans deny it’s happening at all.

But if the climate crisis continues, the drought that is bringing California to its knees will become the “new normal.” The rest of the nation will have to get their fruits and veggies from somewhere else.

In other parts of the world, the existence of a climate crisis isn’t up for debate. In the Bolivian Andes, the rains now come late, causing trouble for farmers. In Kenya, scientists have documented malarial mosquitoes bringing the disease into new parts of the country as temperatures rise.

Along with many small Pacific islands, Palau is pleading for climate action that might save their homelands from being washed away.

We need to take action to prevent the climate from making our planet inhospitable to human life, and we won’t get very far if our national debate on the existence of the climate crisis is set back by every single snowstorm.

Jill Richardson is the author of Recipe for America: Why Our Food System Is Broken and What We Can Do to Fix It

grocery worker who knew nothing about Genie’s background instinctively new to give her something from his meat counter for her to examine.

Genie’s hunger-tolearn look was an extreme case. Sadly, at the other end of the spectrum are a few children who express little curiosity about the world.

Teachers do not need to detect this hunger-tolearn from a distance.

When we teach, we discover whether a student is eager and excited to soak up knowledge or must be led step-by-step without much inner drive to learn.

But Genie’s story is worrisome. Researchers tried to teach Genie to speak. Most children hear language in infancy and learn to copy sounds.

Genie was not exposed to language until after she was 12-years-old.

Researchers had long known that baby birds had only a short window of time to learn to sing.

Now Genie’s case confirmed that there is only one “window of opportunity” to learn language in our earliest years. The brain cell networks that give us language must be stimulated to grow within this early window.

Victims conservatives take leave of their senses?

Why does it make them spout nonsense about “personal vilification” and the “abuse of government power?”

The answer, I believe, is traction. I think the crazy, hair-on-fire rhetoric means that progressives are making progress in winning support for policies designed to lessen inequality.

Tax cuts and deregulation have dominated federal policy since the

“You gave your enemies a lot of fodder,” interviewer informed interviewee; in O’Reilly’s world, political opponents must be “enemies.”

The Fox News host further informed Obama that “your detractors believe that you did not tell the world (Libya) was a terror attack because your campaign didn’t want that out.”

“And they believe it,” Obama replied, “because folks like you are telling them that.”

Hands “He only wants to enter the war in Europe to divert attention from HIS depression. Sorry, won’t work.”

“Rosy the Riveter.

What a stupid idea. Women need to stay at home.”

“Why do we need a FDIC? It’s more government. People still have coffee cans.”

“Better working conditions for workers? It’s more expense to the job creators. Just adding to the cost of goods.”

“Pearl Harbor. Day of infamy. When will you tell us the truth, Frank?” * * * Or during the Reagan SOTU: “Trickle down eco-

Drew mysteries and now Harry Potter.

Most scientists trace their beginning interest to curiosity-to-explore before the age of 10.

Timing is important.

Students’ lifelong interests often begin when a teacher gets them hooked on something special at just the right time in their life - on something that they had a hunger to learn.

But the high number of college students (over 60 percent) who change majors at least once, suggests that we often miss those critical opportunities.

And time runs out.

(See HUNGER on page 7)

(continued from page four)

1980s; during this time, inequality has spiraled out of control. If conservatives have nothing better to sell than more tax cuts and more deregulation, it’s no wonder that people are tuning in to what the other side has to say.

Income tax rates for the highest earners remain quite low, in historical terms, while earnings on capital gains - including some “gains” that look a lot like regular income have been taxed at a measly 15 or 20 percent.

Divided

If this window in time is passed, even the best language training at a later time can never grow those neurons. Genie never spoke more than a few hundred words. The “window” for learning this basic skill is definitely limited.

In a more general way, this is likely the case for other knowledge. Veteran teachers know that students learn in fits-andstarts. It is a case of use-it or lose-it.

For instance, a person rarely becomes a lifelong reader unless they develop a love of reading in late elementary school: the Hardy Boys, Nancy

Advocating that taxes be raised for the wealthy is not a personal attack on anyone; that includes you, Mr. Perkins, and Ms. Steel as well.

It is a policy proposal. No, it wouldn’t solve all the government’s fiscal problems. But yes, it would provide significant revenue while making our tax scheme more progressive and, in the eyes of most people, more fair.

And yes, fairness counts.

The fabulously wealthy need love, too. But they’ll

get more of it if they stop congratulating themselves for all their hard work and realize that poor people work hard, too, sometimes at two or three jobs, and struggle to put food on the table.

Relax, Mr. Perkins, they’re not coming for you. They’re waiting for non-special buses to take them to the grocery store.

Eugene Robinson is a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist and former assistant managing editor for The Washington Post

(continued from page five)

“No, I’m not telling them that,” O’Reilly said.

Right. The guests on O’Reilly’s show are telling them that.

Obama wore no tie and sat with legs crossed, frequently smiling, and refusing to be provoked even when O’Reilly said that “some people” (but not him, of course) allege that the IRS was being used for corrupt purposes.

Obama again held a mirror to O’Reilly. “These kinds of things keep on surfacing, in part because (continued from page four)

nomics. Great idea. What could go wrong?”

“How difficult would it be to replace T. Roosevelt with Ron on Mt. Rushmore?”

“This controversy over Iran-Contra is a liberal attempt to weaken our nation. Nothing illegal involved here.”

“Tax cuts. More tax cuts. What better way to balance the budget? * * * Yes, technology is a great thing. Too bad it so often finds its way into the hands of people who don’t know how to handle it.

“Yes, Tim, we’re referring to you.”

Rod Haxton can be reached at editor@screcord.com

you and your TV station will promote them.”

After getting Obama’s response to the accusations of “detractors” and “some people,” O’Reilly read a letter from a California woman asking Obama, “Why do you feel it’s necessary to fundamentally transform the nation?”

This turned out to be a trick question.

“I don’t think we have to fundamentally transform the nation — ” Obama began.

O’Reilly interrupted. “But these are your words.”

They were.

“We are five days away from fundamentally transforming the United States of America,” Obama said, just before his election in 2008. He went on to say this transformation would end the “politics that would divide a nation.”

O’Reilly himself is proof that the transformation failed.

Dana Milbank is a Washington Post staff writer

Mistakes

(continued from page five)

Those efforts are already underway, starting with a massive march against neoliberal reforms in Mexico that pushed back on reforms to labor, energy and education policies.

The fight against fast track is the urgent issue right now in the United States. But our experience with other trade debates (such as the failed negotiations for the Free Trade Area of the Americas), demonstrates the crucial importance of coordinated action among civil society groups in the countries involved.

Together, this chorus of voices has real potential to stop trade talks based on expanding the NAFTA model and create new economic ties based on human rights and food sovereignty.

Karen Hansen-Kuhn is International Program Director at the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy. Her work has focused on bringing developing countries’ perspectives into public debates on trade, food security and economic policy.

She can be reached at khansenkuhn@iatp.org

Hunger (continued from page six)

As I walk city streets and see the range of personalities, from the homeless digging aluminum cans from the trash to the “successful” businessman (who may be less than happy), I try to see the child in them.

As young children, they all seemed so full of potential. But along the way, as their hunger-tolearn was not met in so many ways, their interests in life were never developed.

I can see the hungerto-learn in many children. But as adults, life narrows. They grow old beyond the reach of teachers. The window closes.

They cannot go back.

As Henry David Thoreau said: “Most men lead lives of quiet desperation and go to the grave with the song still in them.”

The Scott County Record • Page 7 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

What do you think?

Do you think homeowners and others who have large lots in Scott City should be allowed to purchase an additional water meter in order to reduce the likelihood of pumping in excess of 60,000 or 80,000 gallons of water per month and avoid paying the city’s higher rates?

Yes

27 ______

No

61 ______

Submit this form and your comments to The Record office, or log onto the website: scottcountyrecord.com Keep comments brief so they can be published in the newspaper. The numbers represent totals as of noon Thursday. For updated totals visit The Record website.

John Schrock trains biology teachers and lives in Emporia

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County spelling bee @ SCHS auditoriun, 10:00 a.m.

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Al-Anon meeting @ Community Christian Church, 6:30 p.m.

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Saturday

St. Joseph Parish Center 7:00 p.m.

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HS National FFA Week SCHS Wrestling Novice @ Colby, 9:00 a.m.

Shop Hop/Quilt Show @ Wm. Carpt.

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Shop Hop/Quilt Show @ Wm. Carpt.

Bldg., 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

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SCHS BB vs. Great Bend, 4:45 p.m.

21 SCMS Valentine dance

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Chief as the city fire chief. “I’ve seen a lot of changes.”

The gear, the training and the scope of what’s expected of firemen has evolved significantly over the past half century.

Hoover, 78, can recall that when firemen responded to the City Cafe fire they had no protective gear. The bunker gear that is common for firefighters today wasn’t available to local volunteers at the time.

And a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) that is essential for firefighters when they enter a smoke-filled building didn’t exist.

“Back then you’d hold your breath, shut your eyes, enter a building and try to get done what needed to be done before you’d get choked up,” says Hoover.

Of course, firefighting equipment has improved.

At the time Hoover joined the department they had recently sold the 1926 Chevrolet hose truck. That’s the same vehicle which the Scott County Shriners drive in local parades.

In its place, Storm had built a new hose truck on a Chevrolet chassis.

The 1947 Mack pumper was replaced by a 1969 Boardman pumper which the department still uses.

They also have a 1993 Pierce which is the primary pumper for city fires.

“We’re in the process of looking at replacing (the Pierce) in order to keep up with our certification,” Hoover says.

The Scott County Record • Page 8 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

(continued from page one)

Those numbers have remained steady over the years with 11 on each department today.

“We’re fortunate to have a really good bunch of guys who enjoy doing this for their community and we’re lucky to have a lot of young guys involved,” says Hoover.

“We try to keep the time away from the family to a minimum, but you have to make a commitment to do this.”

However, while there are city and county departments, both co-exist when it comes to sharing personnel as needed.

“When we get a call the guys don’t worry about whether it’s a city or a county fire. You never know who’s going to be able to respond, so everyone who’s available will show up,” Hoover points out. “City firemen will assist with a county fire and the county guys will help with a city fire.”

When it’s a county fire, Hoover will often remain behind at the fire station to handle emergency calls and to provide a link to those firemen in the field.

“That way someone’s in town should there be a city fire,” says Hoover.

“There have been a few times over the years that we’ve had two fires at the same time. Fortunately, we’ve been able to handle those situations without a problem.”

According to county fire chief Vernon Storm, Hoover has another reason for staying behind at the communication center.

“When we get back to the station he likes to remind me that the city saved the county,” Storm joked while Hoover was being honored during Monday’s city council meeting.

Hoover is among several volunteers who dedicated a significant part of their lives to the local volunteer departments.

According to membership records and journals maintained by the department since 1927, Kenneth Rictor’s 55 years as a volunteer stands as the all-time record. He began as a member of the boy’s team in 1927 and didn’t step off the county department until 1982.

Virgil Storm and Harold Hoover were volunteers for 47 and 44 years, respectively.

(Top right) County Fire Chief Vernon Storm (right) presents Ken Hoover with a certificate from the Kansas State Firefighters Association recognizing him for 50 years of service.

(Right) Volunteer firemen training on their 1947 Mack pumper in this undated photo.

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More Than Fires Perhaps one of the biggest changes that Hoover and his fellow volunteers have gone through is the extensive training and added responsibilities that are required of firefighters.

Beyond fighting fires, they are also trained in high angle rescue (from grain elevators and other elevated buildings), vehicle extraction (Jaws of Life) and how to rescue individuals who have fallen into a grain bin. The Scott Co-op and Bartlett Grain conducted schools last year so their employees would know how to deal with a grain engulfment emergency. Local firemen also took part.

“It seems we get called out to a lot of accidents to rescue people from vehiMajor Fires cles,” Hoover notes.

Unfortunately, major fires are impossible Regular Training The training required to avoid. While property of volunteer firemen is al- losses have been kept to a minimum over the past most endless.

While firemen are re- 50 years, two of the most quired to have Firefighter significant fires leveled I and II certification the Helmers Motors (2006) local volunteers also have and resulted in more than training meetings twice $1 million in losses and each month. In addition, renovation costs to the regional fire schools pro- vocational-ag building at vide training through the Scott Community High use of a burn trailer, how School (spring of 2012).

“Helmers was probably to deal with propane fires, the worst that we’ve seen. and more.

“It puts a lot more pres- It was an extremely hot sure on firemen to know fire,” Hoover remembers. their equipment and to “Smoke filled the attic and have the right training,” we couldn’t get to it. It eventually swept through Hoover says.

Of course, maintain- the roof and to the front ing an adequate number where it blew everything of volunteers is always a out. We could see what concern. When Hoover was happening but there first joined the city depart- was nothing we could do ment it had 11 firefighters about it.” in addition to 11 serving Even though the SCHS on the county department. fire resulted in high prop-

erty losses, most of that was from smoke and heat.

“When you do this kind of work it’s not always pretty. Sometimes there are tragedies, but that’s part of it,” says Hoover, who has no plans to retire in the near future.

“You do this because it’s important and you want to give something back to your community.

This has been a part of my life since 1964. I can’t think of anything else I’d have done that would have had more meaning. It’s something I’ve enjoyed doing and I still enjoy.”

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The Scott County Record

Youth/Education

County spelling bee is Tuesday

4-H Club News Club members busy with winter trips You might think the winter is cold and boring? But 4-H can be a solution to that!

It offers many trips and activities to interact with others from other counties. Some of the activities members of the Pioneer 4-H Club have been attending are the Lady Wildcat basketball game. Danean Metheney attended the National Western Roundup trip at Denver, Colo. Addison and Emma Price attended the Denver Education Trip.

The Southwest Leadership Forum in Dodge City was attended by Dallie Metheney. There will be many more opportunities coming up that members of the Pioneer 4-H Club will be looking forward to.

Dallie Metheney, reporter

The Scott County spelling bee will be held on Tues., Feb. 11, 10:00 a.m., at the Scott Community High School auditorium.

Qualifiers from each grade include: Eighth: Kevin Herndon and Conner LeBeau.

Dexter Gooden (alt.).

Seventh: Kodi Rogers and Irit Sanchez. Stacy Dominguez (alt.).

Sixth: William Cupp and Cynthia Gonzalez.

Diego Lopez (alt.).

Fifth: Jalea Hoddy and Sawyer Stevens. Dutch Turner (alt.).

Fourth: Leightyn Heim and Paige Hoelting.

Eric Shapland (alt.).

FHSU could get $1 million budget boost

Ft. Hays State University could get a $1 million boost in funding if the state legislature approves the governor’s budget recommendation.

The governor’s recommendation would restore $276,000 in cuts from the 2013 budget.

Seeking to cut state funding for universities, the legislature last year took money from universities that either overspent or underspent their salary budget lines.

Universities that paid their employees more than the state budgeted for personnel saw their salary funding cut by the amount of the additional employee pay. Universities that spent less state money than they were budgeted for salaries, generally due to open positions, had their salary line reduced to what they actually spent.

“The Legislature cut what we spent to hire faculty to cover increased enrollment,” says Dr. Edward Hammond, FHSU president.

FHSU has seen its enrollment climb from about 5,800 students in 2000 to just over 13,500 by the 2013 fall semester.

Brownback’s recommended budget also includes funding for expansion of the new Information Systems Engineering Bachelor of Science Degree Program at FHSU. “The additional $760,111 would permit us to support 100 students in the program,” says Dr. Hammond.

Students started enrolling in the new program in the fall of 2012.

Enrollment doubled to six this year and is expected to increase steadily. The program is one of only two in the U.S. and one of a few worldwide.

Page 9 - Thursday, February 6, 2014

USD 466 Lunch Menu

SCHS winter Homecoming queen candidates are (from left) Ellie Irwin, Holly Wilcoxson and Kelly Wycoff. King candidates are Cole Allen, Chris Pounds and Keigun Wells.

(Record Photo)

SCHS winter sports coronation is Friday Scott Community High School winter Homecoming activities will be held Fri., Feb. 7, when the Beavers host Ulysses High School. Crowning ceremony will take place during halftime of the boy’s basketball game.

Queen candidates are Ellie Irwin, daughter of Shane and Gayle Irwin; Holly Wilcoxson, daughter of Jim Wilcoxson; and Kelly Wycoff, daughter of Terry and Lora Wycoff.

King candidates are Cole Allen, son of Jason Allen and Mindy Allen; Chris Pounds, son of Jeff and Karen

Pounds; and Keigun Wells, son of Shane and Melissa Wells.

Class attendants are: Juniors: Macy Davis and Sergio Peregrino.

Sophomores: Madison Braun and Abe Wiebe.

Freshmen: Nancy Wiebe and Kyle Cure.

The flower girl is Piper Fox and crown bearer is Waylon Ricker.

A dance will be held in the SCHS commons area following the game.

School Calendar Fri., Feb. 7: SCHS basketball vs Ulysses, 4:45 p.m. Winter Homecoming.

Sat., Feb. 8: SCHS Forensics Invitational; ACT testing at SCHS; SCHS wrestling in GWAC dual tournament at Goodland, 10:00 a.m.

Mon., Feb. 10: SCHS quiz bowl at Oakley; SCMS 7th grade basketball vs Holcomb (H), 4:00 p.m.; 8th grade basketball vs Holcomb (T), 4:00 p.m.; SCHS basketball vs Hugoton (H), 4:45 p.m.; SCES TEAM meeting, 5:30 p.m.

Tues., Feb. 11: Scott County spelling bee at SCHS auditorium, 10:00 a.m.; SCMS quiz bowl at Hays-Felten, 4:00 p.m.; SCHS basketball vs Goodland (T), 4:45 p.m.

Wed., Feb. 12: SCMS sixth grade tea; SCHS FFA in spring area meeting at Garden City; SCHS parent-teacher conferences, 3:45 p.m.

Thurs., Feb. 13: Parent-teacher conferences (evening); SCMS 7th grade basketball vs Goodland (H), 4:00 p.m.; 8th grade basketball vs Goodland (T), 4:00 p.m.

Fri., Feb. 14: No school. Parent-teacher conferences in the morning; SCHS basketball vs TMP (T), 4:45 p.m.

Sat., Feb. 15: SCHS forensics at Syracuse; SCHS wrestlers in novice tournament at Colby, 9:00 a.m.; SCHS basketball vs Great Bend (H), 4:45 p.m.

Mon., Feb. 17: National FFA Week; SCMS 7th grade basketball vs Holcomb (T), 4:00 p.m.; 8th grade basketball vs Holcomb (H), 4:00 p.m.; BOE meeting, 7:00 p.m.

Week of February 10-14 Breakfast Monday: French toast sticks, sliced pears, fruit juice.

Tuesday: Breakfast rounds, flavored yogurt, mixed fruit, fruit juice.

Wednesday: Whole grain bagel and jelly, grapefruit, fruit juice.

Thursday: Bubble bread, fresh apple, fruit juice.

Friday: No school.

Lunch Monday: Pizza pocket, *chef boyardee ravioli, seasoned sweet potatoes, steamed broccoli, pears.

Tuesday: Oven fried chicken, *salisbury steak, potatoes and gravy, peas and carrots, whole grain roll, peaches.

Wednesday: Burrito and salsa, *egg roll, fried rice, mixed vegetables, mandarin oranges.

Thursday: Chicken nuggets, *steak fingers, potato salad, green beans, dinner roll, rosy applesauce and cookie.

Friday: No school. *Second choice for SCMS and SCHS

Sweet stuff for the sweet.... and the not so sweet!

Valentine gifts ready for giving!

You can get your’s at: 323 S. Main, Scott City 872-5667

For the Record Just got engaged? Think about insurance The Scott County Record

We are in the peak time for couples to get engaged to be married.

Trend watchers say that 39 percent of engagements happen between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day. Planning a wedding is exciting and time consuming. One not-so-exciting, but just as important factor to discuss, is what to do about insurance needs.

That may not be as fun as sampling cakes, but getting married can certainly

The Scott County Record Page 10 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

commissioner’s corner Kansas Insurance

Commissioner Sandy Praeger

have an impact on your insurance coverage.

Our Kansas Insurance Department staff and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) have some insurance tips for couples who are about to say “I do.”

Wedding Insurance Insurance to protect

Public Notice (First published in The Scott County Record Thurs., Feb. 6, 2014; last published Thurs., Feb. 20, 2014)3t IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF SCOTT COUNTY, KANSAS BEEF BELT FEEDERS, LLC, PLAINTIFF vs.

SHALLOW WATER ALCOHOL CO., INC., J.D. Muench, Resident Agent; SHALLOW WATER GRAIN, INC., Floyd Ludowese, Resident Agent, and the unknown heirs, executors, administrators, devisees, trustees, creditors, and assigns of any deceased defendants; the unknown spouses of any defendants; the unknown officers, successors, trustees, creditors, and assigns of any defendants which are existing, dissolved, or dormant corporations; the unknown executors, administrators, devisees, trustees, creditors, successors, and assigns of any defendants who are or were partners or in partnership, the unknown guardians, conservators and trustees of any defendants who are minors or are under any legal disability; and the unknown heirs, executors, administrators, devisees, trustees, creditors, and assigns of any person alleged to be deceased.

DEFENDANTS Case No. 14-CV-01 [K.S.A. 60-307] NOTICE OF SUIT The State of Kansas to the above-named Defendants, and all other persons who are or may be concerned: You are hereby notified that a Petition has been filed in the District Court of Scott County, Kansas, by Beef Belt Feeders, LLC of Scott Coun-

Homeowners Insurance There are several things to consider when deciding where you and your spouse will live. Location, size of the dwelling and construction type are all factors that determine your insurance premium.

Combining households also means combining your belongings. Make a home inventory of all of your belongings to determine how much coverage you’ll need. It will also make filing a claim easier in the event of a loss or

Scott Co. LEC Report

ty, Kansas, Plaintiff, praying for an order quieting the title to the following described real estate: Lots Eleven (11), Twelve (12), Thirteen (13), Fourteen (14), Fifteen (15), Sixteen (16) except the West Five Feet (W5’) of Lot Sixteen (16), the East One hundred Twenty-five Feet (E125’) of Lots Seventeen (17) and Eighteen (18), all in Block G, Shallow Water, Scott County, Kansas The Petition further seeks an order holding the Plaintiffs to be the owner of fee simple title to the above-described real estate, free of all right, title, and interest of the above-named Defendants, and all other persons who are or may be concerned, and that they and each of them be forever barred and foreclosed of and from all right, title, interest, lien, estate, or equity of redemption in or to the above-described real estate, or any part thereof.

You are required to plead to said Petition on or before the 3rd day of March, 2014, in said Court, at Scott City, Scott County, Kansas. Should you fail therein, judgment and decree will be entered in due course upon said Petition.

BEEF BELT FEEDERS, LLC, Plaintiff Submitted by: Laura L. Lewis Sup. Ct. #18788 119 N. 4th Street P.O. Box 847 Leoti, KS 67861-0847 (620) 375-2915 Attorney for Plaintiff

Public Notice (Published in The Scott County Record Thurs., Feb. 6, 2014) 1t

SCOTT COUNTY COMMISSIONER’S PROCEEDINGS DECEMBER 2013 GENERAL FUND SALARIES ............................................ $ 82,874.44 COMMODITIES ....................................

6,236.85 CONTRACTUAL SERVICES .................

59,653.79 CAPITAL OUTLAY..................................

5.00 OTHER...................................................

0.00 COUNTY HEALTH FUND SALARIES .............................................

COMMODITIES .....................................

CONTRACTUAL SERVICES .................

CAPITAL OUTLAY .................................

OTHER...................................................

19,342.55 4,483.11 1,370.12 0.00 0.00

NOXIOUS WEED FUND SALARIES...............................................

COMMODITIES ......................................

CONTRACTUAL SERVICES...................

OTHER ...................................................

4,440.66 2,385.00 270.00 0.00

ROAD AND BRIDGE FUND SALARIES ..............................................

COMMODITIES.......................................

CONTRACTUAL SERVICES....................

CAPITAL OUTLAY....................................

32,654.69 51,208.77 24,926.17 31,230.00

FIRE DISTRICT FUND SALARIES ..............................................

COMMODITIES ......................................

CONTRACTUAL SERVICES....................

CAPITAL OUTLAY ..................................

389.28 223.09 13,315.06 0.00

TREASURER’S SPECIAL FUND SALARIES ............................................... 13,120.81 COMMODITIES .......................................

122.45 CONTRACTUAL SERVICES ....................

280.24 CAPITAL OUTLAY.....................................

0.00 OTHER .....................................................

409.17 JAMES M. MINNIX Chairman

against weather, illness or even “cold feet” has been around for a few years, and the market is increasing, according to insurance companies.

Since the cost of an American wedding is now estimated at $26,000, and an estimated two millionplus weddings are conducted annually in the U.S., couples might want to check with an insurance agent to see if this could be useful for their situation.

ALICE BROKOFSKY Scott County Clerk

Scott City Police Department Jan. 27: Carlos Cabrera slid down an embankment and struck a tree.

Jan. 31: Lindsey Osborn reported a burglary and theft of property.

Feb. 2: David Fuentes was arrested for driving without a valid license and transported to the LEC. Feb. 2: A hit-and-run accident was reported in the 700 block of Main Street.

Feb. 2: Keith Farr was arrested for battery, physical contact in a rude, insulting, angry manner and assault.

He was transported to the LEC.

Public Notice (First published in The Scott County Record, Thurs., Jan. 23, 2014; last published Thurs., Feb. 6, 2014)3t IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF SCOTT COUNTY, KANSAS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JERALD A. DOORNBOS, deceased Case No. 2014-PR-02 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO ALL PERSONS CONCERNED: You are hereby notified that on January 16, 2014, a Petition for Probate of Will and Issuance of Letters Testamentary was filed in this court by Stuart A. Doornbos, an heir, devisee, legatee, and

Kansans targeted by court scams

Kansas residents who receive unusual phone calls or emails from a person claiming to be affiliated with a Kansas court need to be aware they might be the target of a scam.

In one scam, residents report they received a phone call from someone claiming to be affiliated with a local court or sheriff’s office who demands the person pay a fine for failing to report for jury duty.

Anyone who receives a call of this type should hang up immediately and report it to local law enforcement.

In another scam, residents report receiving an email from a Kansas court that encourages them to click on a link to confirm a court complaint was filed.

It is believed the link is used to deliver a virus onto the recipient’s computer when it is clicked.

Anyone who receives an email of this type should delete it immediately.

A person who receives an unusual communication that does not fit the profile of either of these scams can contact a local court official to confirm whether it’s valid.

Executor named in the Last Will and Testament of Jerald A. Doornbos, deceased.

All creditors of the above named decedent are notified to exhibit their demands against the Estate within four months from the date of the first publication of this notice, as provided by law, and if their demands are not thus exhibited, they shall be forever barred.

Stuart A. Doornbos WALLACE, BRANTLEY & SHIRLEY 325 Main - P.O. Box 605 Scott City, Kansas 67871 Attorney for Petitioner

disaster.

The NAIC offers a free home inventory app for iPhones and Android phones; you can also download a PDF version.

Auto Insurance Married couples have the option of combining their auto insurance policies, but most newlyweds don’t discuss their spouse’s driving record before getting married.

A poor driving record could increase the cost of your premiums, so you

might want to have that conversation.

As a newlywed, you may be eligible for discounts. Some insurance companies consider married couples a lower risk, which could result in lower rates.

Also, if you combine your auto policies or buy auto coverage from the same company that carries your homeowners or renters policies, you may be eligible for additional discounts.

(See ENGAGED on page 11)

Public Notice (First published in The Scott County Record on Thurs., Feb. 6, 2014; last published Thurs., Feb. 13, 2014)2t RESULTS OF THE MARKET STUDY ANALYSIS SCOTT COUNTY ASSESSMENT YEAR 2014 FEBRUARY 3, 2014 Pursuant to K.S.A. 1995 SUPP. 79-1460a.

A study of the residential real estate market indicated that there was an overall inflationary trend of 8.2% for the 2014 tax year.

A study of the commercial real estate market indicated that the market is stable, but does indicate a general upward or downward trend.

A study of the vacant real estate market indicated that the market is stable with no general upward or downward trend.

Values on specific properties may not follow the general trend because of the changes in the property, corrections of descriptive information or adjustment of value based on sales of similar properties.

The Scott County Record • Page 11 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

County Commission December 17, 2013 Scott County Commissioners met in a regular meeting with the following present: Chairman James Minnix, Commissioners Jerry Buxton and Gary Skibbe and County Clerk Pam Faurot.

•Bids were opened for a new pickup at the road department. They were: J & R Car & Truck Center, Inc., Scott City 2013 Silverado 2500HD LT 4WD Ext Cab

$39,100.00

Tubbs & Sons Ford Sales, Colby

2014 Ford Supercab XL 4WD

$25,556.82

Bids were rejected and Buxton was appointed to

negotiate with J&R Car and Truck for a better price in order to keep the business local.

•Bids were opened for a new trailer at the road department. They were: Klassic Trailer Sales, Inc., Goddard Lowboy 40 Ton Load Handler Larry’s Trailer Sales, LLC, Wichita

$34,375.00

Lowboy 50 Ton Slope Neck

$32,410.00

Lowboy 50 Ton Neville Built Trailer

$31,230.00

Chuck Henry Sales, Inc., Solomon

Bruckner’s Truck Sales, Hays Lowboy 50 Ton Viking Load handler

$35,875.00

The bid from Chuck Henry Sales for $31,230 was

accepted.

•Commission Chairman Jim Minnix was contacted by Elmer Snyder at the VIP Senior Center. The state inspector had found a problem with water behind the dishwasher soaking into the wall. The commission approved spending up to $1,000 for repairs.

•Park Lane Nursing Home was reimbursed $47,063 for the installation of a new nurse call station.

•Approval was given for issuing a check to Park Lane for $4,884 from the Zella Carpenter Fund for November

Security freezes provide extra layer of protection from ID theft Atty. Gen. Derek Schmidt

Recent high-profile data breaches by large retail chains have many Kansas consumers on alert for identity theft.

It’s important to check your bank and credit card statements every month for suspicious charges.

However, another option to guard personal information is to put a security freeze on your credit report.

A security freeze prohibits the credit bureaus, with certain exceptions, from releasing your credit report or any information on it without your express authorization.

Under Kansas law, victims of identity theft can obtain a security freeze for free by submitting documentation of the identity theft, such as a police report, to the credit bureaus. If you are not a victim of identity

theft, the credit bureaus can charge you up to $5 for placing the security freeze.

All requests for a security freeze should be made in writing, whether by mail or online. The credit bureaus must place the freeze on your report within five days of receiving your request.

While a security freeze is in place, it will be very difficult for anyone - including you - to open new accounts in your name. If you wish to apply for a new loan, open a new credit card or bank account while the freeze is in place, you will need to contact the credit bureaus to temporarily lift the freeze.

This will require giving them the password or PIN number you received when you put the freeze in place.

For non-identity theft victims, the credit bureaus can charge you another $5

fee each time the freeze is lifted or put back in place.

Another way to protect your identity is through a credit monitoring service.

These services will continuously monitor your credit report and send you an alert if there is any activity, including opening a new account or a change of address.

When a large data breach occurs, companies often offer these services for free to affected consumers. Target recently announced that it is offering a free year of credit monitoring to its customers.

You can sign up for Target’s free monitoring service at https://creditmonitoring.target.com/.

To learn more about security freezes and other ways to prevent identity theft, visit the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection website at www.

InYourCornerKansas.org.

Moving? Don’t forget your paper!

special assistance.

•Lynn Collins was reappointed to a three-year term on the Advisory Board for the 25th Judicial District Youth Services.

Engaged Health Insurance When deciding what to do about your health insurance, evaluate your current and future health care needs. Review the provisions of your policies with those needs in mind. You will also want to compare the cost of adding your spouse to your policy against keeping your own health insurance.

For individual plans, contact your insurance agent for specific enrollment requirements for spouses. Insurance companies are no longer allowed to deny coverage for pre-existing conditions, nor can they charge more based on medical history.

You will need your spouse’s Social Security

(continued from page 10)

Number and income information to add him/ her to your plan.

Life Insurance It’s not easy to talk about something like life insurance during such a happy time, but life insurance may help secure your family’s financial future. To calculate your needs, consider future income, the cost of raising children and any large outstanding debts such as school loans or mortgage payments.

If either or both of you have life insurance, check with your agent about updating your beneficiary information. Remember to check with your employer about any life insurance benefits offered through work.

Contact The Scott County Record with your new address.

PO Box 377, Scott City, Ks. 67871 620-872-2090 • office@screcord.com

The Scott County Record • Page 12 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Medicare changes for doctors is likely Tara Kulash St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Expectations are high this year that Congress will finally reach an agreement to overhaul the way Medicare pays doctors for services, scrapping a method that’s been the target of criticism for more than a decade.

If the so-called ‘doc fix’ happens, experts say, Medicare beneficiaries will see changes in how health care is provided, with an increased emphasis on coordinated care and preventive services.

“We’re optimistic that there are a lot of opportunities in this to help make people healthier, more satisfied with their care and

Emphasis will shift to preventative services bring down costs,” said Dr. Joseph Craft III, a cardiologist at Mercy Clinic Heart and Vascular and president of the St. Louis Metropolitan Medical Society.

The current Medicare payment formula, enacted in 1997 as part of a budget deficit reduction measure, was designed to curb federal health spending by linking physician payments to an economic growth target.

Known as the sustainable growth rate (SGR) the formula initially meant modest Medicare payment increases to doc-

tors.

That abruptly changed in 2002, when Medicare cut reimbursements by nearly five percent.

Doctors protested, and Congress responded by delaying the cuts - over and over and over, ever since.

The postponements, however, have just increased the size - and the price - of the needed fix.

Under the current system, the majority of Medicare beneficiaries receive fee-for-service care. This means physicians are reimbursed a set

amount for each service they provide. This method, critics say, provides financial incentives for doctors to offer more services than necessary.

The fixes working their way through three key congressional committees, while they differ, are designed to provide doctors with incentives to model their services based on value instead of volume, said Dr. Stanley Birge, an associate professor of medicine at Washington University in St. Louis.

“By ‘value’ we mean the quality of the service

plus the cost efficiency of providing that service,” he said.

Instead of each doctor billing for each service, health care providers would be encouraged to form medical groups that coordinate their services and offer bundled bills.

For example, it’s cheaper to pay a single fee to a hospital for surgery than to pay the surgeon, anesthesiologist and overhead costs separately.

The advantage to this approach is that physicians will be encouraged to communicate better about their shared

patients’ care, which will likely decrease duplicated services and misdiagnoses.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, signed into law in 2010, pushes heavily for bundled payments instead of fee-for-service. The ACA cannot take full credit, though, for the proposed changes. St. Louis doctors say they’ve been moving in this direction all along.

“It’s already happened, and it’s continuing to happen,” Craft said.

Better Coordination Many physicians already noticed, and were concerned by, the industry’s focus on quantity (See CHANGES on page 13)

ABCs of making Western Kansas counties to benefit from safety net funding a long-term relationship work Phil Cauthon KHI News Service

by the American Counseling Association

Valentine’s Day brings thoughts of cute greeting cards and heart-shaped boxes of candy, but it’s also a good time to think about long-term relationships.

While our Valentine’s relationships are usually romantic in nature, they share many of the same basics as any close relationship.

Long-term relationships, whether a marriage, a friendship or even a business relationship, are based on some common foundations and make a number of common demands of us. It’s worth examining what makes a long-term relationship work.

On some level, it is amazing that any two people can build and sustain a long-term relationship at all. Each of us is the product of so many different influences and personal choices, that it’s a wonder we’re able to find other individuals with whom we share enough things to establish a close relationship.

Such differences also explain why building and sustaining a long-term relationship really does take work - work by both parties. Marriages and friendships survive because the people involved are willing to work through differences and disagreements - because they value the relationship more than things over which they disagree.

One way to look at how this works could be called the ABC method of sustaining a relationship.

The “A” is to “Affirm” the value of the relationship. In other words, agreeing that the relationship itself is more important than either of your views on a particular subject.

“B” stands for “Behaving” in ways that, when discussing points of disagreement, reaffirm the value of the relationship. This means letting the other person know that while you may disagree on this subject, it won’t affect the basics of the relationship. You need to show respect for the other person’s point of view. It means not setting ultimatums or trying to force the other person to your point of view.

The “C” means “Clarifying” issues when there are disagreements. Each person must monitor and control his or her own tendency to want to “interpret” the words and actions of the other, as opposed to being open and talking with the other person to clarify his or her intent and meaning.

Long-term relationships are important in our lives. But there is no denying that it takes work to make them last and grow. The key is often finding room in the relationship for the differences that are going to exist between any two people.

“Counseling Corner” is provided by the American Counseling Association. Visit the ACA website at counseling.org

Officials from Kansas safety net clinics got promising news while visiting the Statehouse as part of their annual Legislative Day: A budget committee will recommend restoring the $234,584 cut from the clinics’ funding in the state’s fiscal 2015 budget.

With safety net officials in the audience, the House Social Services Budget Committee voted to recommend adding $300,000 for the clinics.

The money came from $100,000 in reappropriated funds from fiscal 2014 and $200,000 from a recently awarded $10.8

million federal bonus for enrolling more children in Medicaid. Current state funding for safety net clinics is $7.2 million.

Among the 45 safety net officials visiting the Statehouse were Chrysanne Grund and Pamela Popp, who manned one of a dozen clinic exhibits in the Statehouse’s main floor rotunda.

Popp said restoring the funding could make the difference in some safety net clinics’ ability to keep their doors open.

“If that funding wasn’t restored, it would put us in very perilous positions.

It could impact our ability to survive,” said Popp,

director of Hoxie Medical Clinic in Sheridan County.

Clinic officials said the funding is needed to help cover the six percent increase in patients the state’s 43 clinics saw from 2011 to 2012.

In all, clinics like the one in Hoxie serve more than 235,000 Kansans, according to the Kansas Association for the Medically Underserved (KAMU), which represents the clinics. Most of the patients are lowincome workers who lack health insurance.

Grund - project director at Greeley County Health Services - said the safety net clinics do more than provide medical services

in many rural communities.

“The clinics are also an important part of the economic engine in many rural communities. (Greeley County) employs across our system over 100 people. In a very tiny town, that’s the largest employer,” Grund said.

“We’re also the largest employer in our county, by far and away,” Popp said. “We employ about 130 people.”

The Sheridan and Greeley county clinics are federally designated critical access hospitals with 18 beds each.

(See SAFETY on page 13)

Moving Medicaid patients out of emergency room care will take time DETROIT - Nurse Lela Morgan says she lived for years without health insurance after a nervous breakdown in 2005 left her unable to work.

Every 90 days, when she was running low on medications for osteoarthritis and hypertension, she commuted about 45 minutes from her suburban Detroit home to the emergency room at Stroger Hospital. Often, she said, she waited three or four hours.

But last spring,

Morgan’s pastor asked her to help distribute fliers about CountyCare, an early rollout of the expanded Medicaid program in Michigan made possible by the Affordable Care Act. The 55-year-old took a copy of the literature for herself, filled out the paperwork and got her CountyCare card in the mail.

Now she has a personal physician who, at a clinic 15 minutes from her home, talks with her and renews her prescriptions

every 90 days.

“You get to know your doctor, and your doctor gets to know you,” said Morgan. “Now I don’t worry.”

In expanding Medicaid coverage, the architects of the national health reform law hoped to change the way low-income people obtain health care, moving - as Morgan did away from emergency rooms and into the offices of doctors, where more consistent supervision may improve their health.

But some health care experts say that in many cases it will take time and considerable coaching to change their behavior. People tend to use health care more after they obtain coverage, and those unfamiliar with a traditional doctor-patient relationship may stick with what’s familiar.

Researchers reported last month in the journal Science that low-income Oregon adults who (See MEDICAID on page 13)

Medicaid

Safety

obtained Medicaid coverage through a lottery system were more likely to use the emergency room than those who remained uninsured.

“Having insurance coverage gets you only halfway there,” said Dr. Elbert Huang, associate professor of medicine at the University of Chicago and a former senior adviser with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

“There’s this huge deficit of knowledge about how to use the health care system that still needs to be overcome before people can benefit from having health insurance. It’s like you’ve given people a license to drive, but they don’t have a map,” Huang said.

And giving them directions is tricky, said Steven Glass, executive director of managed care for the Cook County Health and Hospitals System, which runs CountyCare.

“Using health insurance is much more complicated than using car insurance,” said Glass.

“Health insurance literacy is something health plans need to address. It’s something we’ve identified, and we’re still trying to understand the gaps.

People don’t know how to use the health insurance and have to be taught and coached through what that is.”

Other Priorities Restoring recent funding cuts is one of three priorities for this legislative session set by KAMU. The other two are approval of Medicaid expansion and approval of licensing mid-level dental practitioners.

Katrina McGivern - KAMU’s communications coordinator - said that while restoring the clinics’ funding cut was the organization’s top priority, there seemed to be more receptiveness

(continued from page 12)

The Scott County Record • Page 13 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

(continued from page 12)

among legislators for the other priorities as well.

“From what we’ve heard, there should be a little more warming up to (Medicaid expansion) next year. I think they’re letting us talk to them about it this year,” McGivern said. “Since we’ve had the navigator grant, we’ve come faceto-face with the coverage gap that is out there. We had about 1,600 people that our navigators saw in just the first three months who fall in the coverage

Changes over quality - and its contribution to rising health care costs.

In response, doctors groups began moving toward better coordination of services, trying to better manage patient care, Craft said. Accountable Care Organizations, or ACOs - made up of doctors, hospitals and other providers - follow a patient’s medical life, instead of just a few appointments.

And many physicians - often without reimbursement - lined up medications, physical therapy

gap.”

A recent estimate by the Kansas Health Institute puts the total coverage gap for uninsured Kansans at 78,400.

KAMU officials noted that the average hospital emergency room visit costs $1,349 versus the average $447 it costs for one year of services at a safety net clinic.

“The safety net clinic network is an essential alternative to the hospital emergency room,” says Popp.

(continued from page 12)

appointments and more for their patients. They invested in electronic health records for data sharing.

Doctors groups, including many specialists, are supportive of the SGR repeal.

If it isn’t replaced, many medical providers would endure a huge cut to their pay and staff budgets if Congress failed to avert the scheduled cut due later this year.

Because of the repeated deferrals by Congress, cuts in Medicare reim-

bursements could exceed 20 percent if no action is taken.

“We’re gonna see a cut in our Medicare reimbursement. It keeps climbing every year, and this really would be a disaster,” Birge said.

Some Medicare physicians have threatened to quit the program if there’s no repeal of the SGR. But Birge said that issue is overblown. The reason doctors stop accepting Medicare, he said, is because they stop accepting insurance altogether.

Partnering To Bring Medical Specialists To Scott City Scott City Outreach Clinic Schedule Scott County Hospital 201 Albert Avenue - Scott City

Cardiology Dr. Mohammed Janif Twice Monthly

Dr. Jose Dimen Monthly

Orthopedic Dr. Alex DeCarvalho Three Times Monthly

Urology Dr. Darrell Werth Monthly

Dr. Kevin McDonald Monthly

Mobile Cardiovascular Screening Quarterly

In partnership with Scott County Hospital haysmed.com

10 rules to help with successful tree plantings The start of tree planting time is just around the corner.

March is a traditional time for spring planting of trees in Kansas. Conservation trees ordered from the Kansas Forest Service will begin shipping as soon after March 1 as the weather permits.

Following are 10 rules to help with your planting of conservation trees. This is also good advice to help homeowners with plantings of new ornamental or landscape trees.

1) Select the right tree for the site. Many serious problems can be avoided by choosing trees that are adapted to your location.

See the K-State publication “Answers to What Shall I Plant” or your local nurseryman for suggestions.

2) Keep the tree well watered and in a shady location. When moving the tree, lift it by the root ball or pot and not by the trunk.

3) Before planting, remove all wires, labels, cords or anything else tied to the plant.

If left on, they may eventually girdle the branch to which they are attached.

4) Dig a proper hole.

Plant the tree on solid ground, not fill dirt. Make the depth so that the tree sits slightly above nursery level.

The width of the planting hole is very important.

Make the hole three times the width of the root ball.

5) Remove all containers from the root ball.

Plastic and peat pots can be cut away and burlap and wire baskets can be rolled back into the hole with as much of the excess cut away as possible.

If all of the wire basket can be removed without disturbing the root ball, do it.

6) Backfill with the same soil that came out of the hole. Amendments, such as peat moss, likely do more harm than good.

Make sure the soil that goes back is loosened; no clods or clumps. Add water as you fill to ensure good root/soil contact and prevent air pockets. There is no need to fertilize at planting.

7) Don’t cut back the branches of a tree after planting except those that are rubbing or damaged.

The leaf buds release a hormone that encourages root growth.

If the tree is cut back, the reduced number of leaf buds results in less hormone released and, therefore, fewer roots are being formed.

8) Water the tree thoroughly and then once per week for the first season if there is insufficient rainfall.

9) Mulch around the tree. This is important.

Make your mulch 2-4 inches deep and cover an area 2-3 times the diameter of the root ball.

10) Stake only when necessary. Trees will establish more quickly and grow faster if they are not staked. However, larger trees or those in windy locations may need to be staked the first year.

Guying materials must be strong enough to provide support, but flexible enough to allow some movement of the trunk.

Movement is necessary for the trunk to become strong.

Horticultural tape or canvas webbing at least 1-2 inches wide makes good staking material.

The Scott County Record • Page 14 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Park Place People

by Doris Riner

Pa and Ma had a bad week, but the dog is still on the porch. In fact, Ma gave in and let the dog sleep in the house a couple nights last week, but Ma and Pa still want to find a new home for him.

They haven’t tried taking him to Sherry and Jack’s house and leaving him there. That might work Ma, but I don’t know.

Lela Bishop was an overnight patient at the hospital last week.

Residents at Park Place are still having birthdays with Edwin Allen’s the most recent one.

Edwin has been around Scott County for quite awhile, like 91 years.

Not many of us ventured out to church Sunday morning. The ice on the streets and sidewalks warned all of us over 50 to stay inside. What a winter!

In spite of the winter weather my daughter, Trudy, took me out for lunch on Tuesday. My son, Bill, and wife, Sue, took me out Thursday evening.

Ron and wife, Sue, brought milk shakes and monster cookies. Wouldn’t you agree with me? I had a good week.

We residents continue to enjoy our visiting at coffees and all our families and friends that join us. We say thank you for coming.

Some of our visitors last week were: Marian Sigurdson, Jack and Sherry Rapier, Bob Plum (who brings his dog to see Mom), Mary Plum, Ron Riner, Mary Lou Oeser, Karen Harm and Mary Ann Spangler.

The Scott County Record • Page 15 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Deaths Dale Lynn Taylor Dale Lynn Taylor, 81, died Feb. 3, 2014, at St. Catherine Hospital, Garden City.

H e was born on Jan. 14, 1933, in Uniont o w n , Ks., the son of Dale Taylor Frank Henry and Frances Thelma (Comstock) Taylor.

A resident of Garden City since 1966, he had worked for Osborn Heirs Company. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving in the Korean Conflict.

He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles; the Finney County Senior Center, where he was chairman of the board for six years; and was a member of the U.S.S. Bayfield Veterans Group.

In December, 1955, he married Betty Howard.

She died in July, 1957. On

April 5, 1962, he married Jeanette Fletcher in Leoti.

She survives.

Other survivors include three daughters, Tina Jean Roe, Goodland, Brenda Dee Short, Macon, Mo., and Lisa Ann Emick, Garden City; two brothers, Don, Scott City, and Darrel, Garden City; a sister, Carol Wilson, Manzanola, Colo.; five granddaughters and two great-granddaughters.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Frank, Jr.; and a sister, Thelma McWilson.

Funeral service was Feb. 6 at Price and Sons Funeral Home, Garden City. Interment was in the Scott County Cemetery, Scott City.

Memorials may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, both in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home, Garden City.

Joan Ayers

Joan Ayers, 70, died Feb. 2, 2014, at Swedish Medical Center in Denver, Colo.

Funeral arrangements will be announced by Price and Sons Funeral Home, 202 N. 4th, Leoti, Ks. 67861.

Dorothy Fern (Barber) Wagner Dorothy Fern (Barber) Wagner, 91, died Feb. 3, 2014, at her daughter’s home in Lamar, Colo.

She was born on May 24, 1922, in Amorita, Okla., to Ruthburn and Alpha A. (Lile) Barber.

Survivors include: five sons, David Wagner, and wife, Shari, Holly, Colo., Thomas Wagner and wife, Lanette, Holly, Colo., Steven Wagner and wife, Kerry, Holly, Colo., Joseph Wagner and wife, Shelly, Sublette, and Kevin Wagner and wife, Maureen, Satanta; four daughters, Donna Guido, and husband, Michael, Lamar, Colo., Barbara Oberly and husband, John, Sioux Falls, S.D., Rebecca Wagner, Fort Lupton, Colo., and Ronda Scranton and husband, Russ, Fort Lupton, Colo.; one sister, Helen Norman, Dighton; one brother, Lyle Barber, Hutchinson; 19

grandchildren, 13 greatgrandchildren; and many other relatives and friends including her special caregivers, Sondra Huser, Becky Claybrook and Misty Martinez.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Donald L. Wagner; two brothers, Edwin Barber and Beryl Barber; and one grandson, Karl Wagner.

Funeral service will be held Fri., Feb. 7, 10:00 a.m., at Valley Memorial Funeral Chapel, Holly, Colo. Burial will follow in the Holly Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the United Methodist Church, Lamar, in care of Valley Memorial Funeral Chapel, Box 950, Lamar, Colo.

81052.

To leave online condolences visit www.valleymemorial@valleymemorialfc.com.

Friendship ‘Meals to Go’ available from the VIP Center Individual frozen/sealed trays • Good for special diets only $3.25/meal • Call 872-3501

Attend the Church of Your Choice

I hate to be lied to, don’t you?

How does God feel about it?

“Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit?” Acts 5:3 (NASB77) I don’t know which seems worse, to lie to God or Satan to filling ones heart. Ananias thought he was withholding the truth from the apostles and the church. But instead he was lying to the Holy Spirit.

What is the lesson for us? All dishonesty is lying. A Christian’s lies are particularly heinous because he represents God and God is truth. You can’t cheat on your spouse without cheating on God. Betraying a confidence is a betrayal of God. Deceptive business practices are against God. It may seem innocent and even justified but all dishonesty equates to dirty lies.

Secondly, there are consequences to pay. Ananias lost his life and that of his wife. There is no getting away with such dishonesty against God. Saying “the devil made me do it,” may be true but we face the consequences of our own sins. He is the father of all lies but “greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world” (1John 4:4).

The Bible says resist the devil and he will flee from you. Most of us have done dumb things like sticking a nail in a light socket. But the consequences taught us not to do that again. We need only consider the harm, a lie produces, to cause us to want to distance ourselves from all dishonesty.

We all struggle with the sin of dishonesty and we fail. One of my favorite scriptures is, 1 John 2:1-2, “My little children, I am writing these things to you that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world.” (NASB77) Jesus never ever lied and I am glad He didn’t.

Rev. Robert Nuckolls Immanuel Southern Baptist Church, Scott City

Scott City Assembly of God

1615 South Main - Scott City - 872-2200 Ed Sanderson, Senior Pastor 9:00 a.m. - Pre-Service Prayer 10:00 a.m. - Sunday Worship Service and Children’s Church Wednesday: 7:00 p.m. - Bible Study and Prayer

St. Joseph Catholic Church

A Catholic Christian Community 1002 S. Main Street - Scott City Fr. Bernard Felix, pastor • 872-7388 Secretary • 872-3644 Masses: 1st Sunday of month - 8:30 and 11:00 a.m.

Other weekends: Sat., 6:00 p.m.; Sun., 11:00 a.m.

Spanish Mass - 2nd and 4th Sundays, 1:30 p.m.

Pence Community Church

Prairie View Church of the Brethren

4855 Finney-Scott Rd. - Scott City - 276-6481 Pastor Jon Tuttle Sunday School: 10:00 a.m.

Morning Worship: 11:00 a.m.

Men’s Fellowship • Wednesday mornings Breakfast at 6:30 a.m.

Held at Precision Ag Bldg. west of Shallow Water

Holy Cross Lutheran Church

1102 Court • Box 283 • Scott City 620-872-2294 • 620-872-3796 Pastor Warren Prochnow holycross-scott@sbcglobal.net Sunday School/Bible Class, 9:00 a.m.

Worship every Sunday, 10:15 a.m.

Wed.: Mid-Week School, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Community Christian Church

8911 W. Road 270 10 miles north on US83; 2 miles north on K95; 9 miles west on Rd. 270 Don Williams, pastor • 874-2031 Wednesdays: supper (6:30 p.m.) • Kid’s Group and Adult Bible Study (7:00 p.m.) • Youth Group (8:00 p.m.)

Sunday School: 9:30 • Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m.

12th & Jackson • Scott City • 872-3219 Shelby Crawford, pastor Sunday School, 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship, 10:45 a.m.

Wednesday Night Bible Study, 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday: God’s High School Cru, 7:30 p.m.

First Baptist Church

Immanuel Southern Baptist Church

803 College - Scott City - 872-2339 Kyle Evans, Senior Pastor Bob Artz, Associate Pastor

1398 S. US83 - Scott City - 872-2264 Robert Nuckolls, pastor - 872-5041

Sunday School, 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School: 9:45 a.m. • Worship: 11:00 a.m.

Sunday morning worship: 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study, 7:00 p.m.

Gospel Fellowship Church 120 S. Lovers Lane - Shallow Water Larry Taylor, pastor Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m.

First Christian Church

1st United Methodist Church

5th Street and College - Scott City - 872-2401 Dennis Carter, pastor 1st Sunday: Communion and Fellowship Sunday Services at 9:00 a.m. • Sunday School, 10:30 a.m.

All Other Sundays • Worship: 8:30 and 10:45 a.m.

Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.

MYF (youth groups) on Wednesdays Jr. High: 6:30 p.m. • Sr. High: 7:00 p.m.

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church

701 Main - Scott City - 872-2937 Scotty Wagner, pastor Sunday School, 9:30 a.m.; Worship, 10:45 a.m.

Wednesday is Family Night Meal: 5:45 p.m. • Study: 6:15 p.m.

Website: www.fccscottcity.org

Elizabeth/Epperson Drives • Scott City • 872-3666 Father Don Martin Holy Eucharist - 11:45 a.m.

St. Luke’s - 872-5734 (recorded message) Senior Warden Bill Lewis • 872-3347 or Father Don Martin - (785) 462-3041

Scott Mennonite Church

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

12021 N. Eagle Rd. • Scott City Franklin Koehn: 872-2048 Charles Nightengale: 872-3056 Sunday School Worship Service: 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Evening Service: 7:00 p.m.

9th and Crescent - Scott City - 872-2334 Bishop Irvin Yeager • 620-397-2732 Sacrament, 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School, 10:50 a.m.

Relief Society and Priesthood, 11:20 a.m.

YMYW Wednesday, 8:00 p.m.

The Scott County Record • Page 16 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Youngsters who have reached 100 to 700 book milestones in the Scott County Library’s “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” reading program are:

Jagger SpanglerCarlson • 100

Leyla Robles 100

Landry Beaton 300

Abby Lightner 300

Anesa Wells 300

Casen Wells 300

Porter Wells 300

Kasey Rohrbough 400

Kirby Rohrbough 400

Bretton Thomas 700

180 earn semester academic honors at SCHS There were 180 students earning first semester academic honors at Scott Community High School.

The list of honor students included 53 who were on the Platinum list for maintaining a 4.0 grade point average.

Other honor lists are Gold (3.75-3.99), Silver (3.5-3.74) and Bronze (3.0-3.49).

Honor roll students include: Platinum Honor List Seniors: Rachel Anliker, Paco Banda, Jordann Becker, Cole Birney, Andrew Brown, MariKate Crouch, Aubrey Davis, Taylor George, Elizabeth Irwin, Dominique Jimenez, Warren Kropp, Chloe Kuffler, Marissa Morris, Brayden Strine,

Megan Thornburg, Kelly Wycoff, Mariah York.

Juniors: Sloan Baker, Macy Davis, Kristi Faurot, Marshal Hutchins, James Jurgens, Chantz Yager.

Sophomores: Ximena Ayala, Madison Braun, Alexandra Castillo, Asher Huck, Dylan Hutchins, Wyatt Kropp, Nicole Latta, Alma Martinez, Addison Price, Megan Smith, Christina Tilton, Melanie Tilton, Shannon Winderlin.

Freshmen: Krystal Appel, KelsiJo Crouch, Jess Drohman, Karen Gonzalez, Taylor Goodman, Bo Hess, Trace Mulligan, Katie Nowak, Elaine Parkinson, Emma Price, Clarissa Ratzlaff, Edward Tilton,

Applications open for assistance with propane bills

The Emergency Propane Relief Program is an energy assistance program to help eligible households pay a portion of their home propane heating costs. This program will provide a one-time benefit to eligible households that use propane for their primary heating source.

Eligible households will receive a one-time benefit of $511. A two-party payment will be issued to both the applicant and the household’s current propane vendor. The program is limited to one payment per household.

The application period has begun and will continue through Tuesday, March 4. An application will not be processed until it is signed and proof of income and previous propane purchases have been received.

For questions regarding this program, contact DCF customer service at 888-369-4777. To locate the nearest service center visit dcf.ks.gov.

Eligible households must meet the following criteria: •Households must use propane as their primary heating source and provide verification of their current propane vendor.

•Applicants must provide verification of their household’s income for the past 30 days and a copy of a recent propane bill.

•The combined monthly gross income of household members must be between 130 and 185 percent of the federal poverty level.

Minimum and maximum income guidelines for a household are: One person: no less than $1,211 and no more than $1,771.

Two persons: $1,640 to $2,391.

Three persons: $2,069 to $3,011.

Four persons: $2,498 to $3,631 Five persons: $2,927 to $4,250.

Households below 130 percent of the federal poverty level can apply for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP).

Email the application and required documentation to propane@dcf.ks.gov.

Kylee Trout, Joshua Walter, Paige Winderlin, Kiana Yager, Keely Yeager.

Gold Honor List Seniors: David Burnett, Krissa Dearden.

Juniors: Hunter Braun, Kambra Dearden.

Sophomores: Cooper Griffith, Zayra PeregrinoGonzalez, Abram Wiebe.

Freshmen: Macy Berning, Alysan Buehler, Drew Duff, Carson Haupt, Chandler Janssen, Hayden Nevills, Chase Rumford, Tyler Vondracek, Nancy Wiebe.

Silver Honor List Seniors: Dakota Allen, Jaclyn Buehler, Steven Fisher, Zachery Glass, Christopher Green, Christopher Hall, Riley Hawker, Cassidy Hornbostel,

Christopher Pounds, Alfredo Ruiz, Alexander Snyder, Lane Turner.

Juniors: Miguel Chavez, Lane Hayes, Brett Meyer, Trey O’Neil, Brianna Smull, Daniel Varela, Hayden Webster.

Sophomores: Timothy Bolle, Amanda Kough, Danean Metheney, Cayleigh Ramsey, Jayden Wren.

Freshmen: Haley Allen, Kyle Cure, Mikennon Donovan, Paige Eggleston, Elizabeth Eikenberry, Judith Gutierrez, Esmeralda Hernandez, Matthew Jenkins, Delaney Kitch, Karlee Logan, Camryn Patton, Andres Perez, Georgina Prieto, Christian Ramirez, Rebecca Rebarchek, Brandi Shearmire.

Bronze Honor List Seniors: Oscar Armendariz, Leah Artz, Anthony Barnhart, Evan Cardenas, Alexis Chavez, Zachary Duff, James Dyer, Keith Farr, Martin Gough, Abigail Hernandez, Calvin Jarmer, Parker Nevills, Bailey Nickel, Elizabeth Piatt, Cecliy Rebarchek, Ana Retamoza, Diana Rodriguez, Zachary Steffens, Mel Turley, Matthew Tuttle, Holly Wilcoxson, Joshua Yeager.

Juniors: Olivia Anderson, Luis Balderrama, Emily Buxton, Brooke Dillinger, Wyatt Eitel, Jami Emahizer, Samantha Garcia, Briana Hutton, Anna Miller, Elizabeth Murray, Sergio Peregrino, Marianne Prieto, Reagan Smyth, Jaylee York.

Sophomores: Liliana Ayala, Joshua Becker, Mark Burnett, Mariah Campbell, Reid Flower, Bret Haire, Desirae Honeyfield, Shylo McCulloch, Drake McRae, Draven McRae, Kyley Milner, Madison Orr, Nicholas Storm, Crystal Wright.

Freshmen: Arely Armendariz, Stephanie Banda, Seth Cardenas, Jennie Erven, Isaac Evans, Taylor Fairleigh, Justin Faurot, Diana Garcia Luevano, Madison Groth, Karen Hermosillo, Chance Jones, Jacob Karnaze, Sarah Lightner, Alexis Long, Xochitl Loya, Kaylene McGonagle, Austin Miller, Garrett Osborn, Kaleb Roberts, Brynan Sherwood, Gabriela Varela.

Sports The Scott County Record

www.scottcountyrecord.com

Skinned Late surge

by Lady Beavers not enough • Page 18

Thursday, February 6, 2014

Page 17

Close call Beavers need 4th quarter rally to avoid upset at Liberal

SCHS junior Brett Meyer chases down a loose ball during first half action against Liberal last Friday.

(Record Photo)

With his team protecting a 45-43 lead as the clock was ticking toward the two minute mark, Dylan Hutchins showed no fear when he caught the pass at the top of the key.

While most sophomores would have been looking to get rid of the ball like a hot potato, the Scott CommuniScott City 52 ty High School guard didn’t Liberal 46 even hesitate. In one fluid motion, he launched a three-point shot that swished the net, giving the Beavers a muchneeded two-possession cushion over Liberal.

With a five point lead, SCHS (11-1) was able to maintain control during the final 1:59 and escape with an unexpectedly tough 5246 road win over the Redskins (4-8).

Credit Liberal’s tenacious man-to-man defense and their size under the basket with limiting the Beavers to just 41 total shots and only seven offensive rebounds.

“I was expecting them to play a 1-3-1 zone,” says junior guard Trey O’Neil, who finished with a team high 20 points. “They got in our faces and did a good job of playing man defense.

“At the same time we struggled offensively. We saw things that we need to fix.”

It didn’t appear it would be a struggle for the Beavers when O’Neil and junior center Sloan Baker hit their first shots from the field to open a 4-0 lead.

Grapplers claim 2 medals in GC invite Warren Kropp was able to bounce back from a quarter-final round upset in the Rocky Welton Invitational to claim a third place finish at Garden City on Saturday.

James Jurgens (126) finished fifth and was the only other Beaver to make the awards stand in one of the state’s toughest wrestling tournaments.

Kropp, a 170-pound senior, lost an overtime decision in Friday’s quarter-finals to Isaac Ortiz (Pine Creek) when he gave up a takedown in the extra period.

“Warren got caught a little flat-footed and wasn’t as aggressive as he normally is,” noted head coach Jon Lippelmann.

That made for a long road through the back side of the bracket on Saturday Scott City sophomore Wyatt Kropp works for a takedown against Azam Ibragimov (Lewiswith Kropp winning all Palmer) during consolation action in the Garden City tournament.

(Record Photo) four matches. He did so with a dominating run that Ortiz for the third place medal “Anytime you can finish in included a fall over Dylan Vista) and a 5-1 decision in the with Kropp (15-2) avenging the the top four in this tournament Lucius (Scottsbluff), a 9-0 consolation semi-finals over earlier setback with a 4-1 deci- you’ve had a pretty good weekmajor decision against Anthony Abbott (Canon City).

That set up a rematch with sion.

(See GC INVITE on page 19) Simon Schaefer (Monte

(See CLOSE on page 24)

Rod Haxton, sports editor

Is Seattle the new look of the NFL?

Seattle’s 43-8 thrashing of Denver has raised two questions.

In answer to the first: despite Peyton Manning’s denial, it was an embarrassing loss.

Even Denver’s Pro Bowl cornerback Champ Bailey acknowledged it was a “little embarrassing.”

That’s the first step in the healing process.

Eventually, Bailey and Manning may come to the realization it was a “lot embarrassing.” How else do you explain: •the first snap going past the ear hole on your helmet for a safety on the game’s first play?

•the league’s most prolific offense not getting a first (See SEATTLE on page 20)

The Scott County Record • Page 18 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Late rally falls short Idiocy that against can happen Redskins Outdoors in Kansas

by Steve Gilliland

‘only in America’

If I ever have the opportunity to write full-time for my living, I plan to author a second column entitled “Only in America,” telling about the idiotic, absurd and outrageous things I see and hear that leave me shaking my head.

My favorite category is stupid criminals and recently I’ve stumbled across several examples from the outdoor world.

By the way, these are all documented in periodicals I receive.

The first involves the outdoorsman’s favorite group PETA (People for Ethical Treatment of Animals.) PETA has asked that Spearfish (S.D.) High School change its name to “Sea Kitten High School.”

A PETA spokesman says its part of a new campaign aimed at kids, theorizing that the “kinder, gentler name of sea kitten will help them see fish as individuals that do have friendships, resulting in fewer fish being killed for food or sport.”

High school Principal Steve Morford replied, “Obviously it’s nothing we’re taking seriously,” and one senior interviewed stated “It’s so illogical that it’s hard to imagine.”

Even PETA should be able to come up with something better than “Sea Kitten.”

Continuing in the world of fishing, a Hancock County, Ohio, wildlife officer was following up on complaints concerning two individuals at a local reservoir fishing from a pink canoe (yes, a pink canoe.)

Suspecting them of keeping over the legal limit of yellow perch, he watched as a woman met them at the lake, took a bucket of fish from them and sped off.

(See IDIOCY on page 21)

If only the Scott Community High School girls would always play like they’re behind by 15 points they might never find themselves in that situation . . . or it wouldn’t happen very often.

“It sure seems that we have to put ourselves in that position before we start p l a y i n g Scott City 24 38 the way Liberal we’re capable,” said a frustrated head coach Shelby Crawford following his team’s 38-24 nonleague loss at Liberal on Friday.

It wasn’t until SCHS (2-11) found itself trailing 23-5 early in the second half that they clawed their way back into the game, cutting the deficit to five points with a chance to make it a three-point game midway into the fourth period.

Senior forward Bailey Nickel, who was held scoreless in the first half, scored her first basket early in the second half which was the start of a 10-0 scoring blitz for the Lady Beavers. Nickel, who finished with a team high 13 points, added a three-pointer during that run, along with baskets from freshman Kiana Yager and senior Riley Hawker.

Liberal pushed its lead back to 27-15 to start the fourth quarter when Scott City again responded with a 9-2 run. Nickel accounted for the first seven

Scott City sophomore Madison Orr (left) ties up the ball during the battle for a rebound in Friday’s game at Liberal.

(Record Photo)

points during that stretch and senior guard Holly Wilcoxson added a basket that came after the Lady Beavers forced a turnover with their full-court pressure.

Wilcoxson’s basket at the 4:01 mark made it a 29-24 game when Scott City’s pressure defense got another turnover, but the easy layin by Nickel that would have made it a three-point game didn’t fall. A turnover by Scott City on its next possession took away their momentum as the Lady Beavers failed to score again during the final four minutes.

“Liberal may have lost

their intensity in the second half and we were able to take advantage of that,” says Crawford. “The three (Liberal) players I was most concerned with scored just 15 points. That should have been good enough for us to win. But we gave them too many second-chance opportunities. They got a lot of points off putbacks.”

Crawford says the team’s poor start to the game began from the time they stepped off the bus.

“We were sluggish during our warmups. I had to stop the warmups and have them start over with more intensity,” says the

head coach.

And even though they trailed 19-5 at halftime, Crawford felt they still weren’t out of the game, “which is incredible when you only score five points in a half. We still had a chance to win in the fourth quarter.”

Outside of Nickel, Scott City’s offense was almost non-existent with Hawker adding four points and three other players each with two.

“I met with my seniors afterwards in the locker room and I told them I wish they knew how good they could be. I say that a lot, but when we play

Not just ‘57’

with max effort, when we make the right reads, we can hang with just about everyone,” Crawford says. “When we’re flatfooted on defense and we aren’t helping each other on offense then we get into trouble we can’t beat hardly anyone.

“We tend to have max effort against teams like Denver South and Sunrise Christian, who are teams we should beat,” adds Crawford. “There are some teams flat out better than us, but Liberal wasn’t one of them. We need to be competitive and bring our best game every night.”

Couchman is more than a number at Kansas State

There’s only one place that Colborn Couchman wanted to play football after leaving Scott Community High School.

Despite getting offers from several colleges following a senior year in which he was an All-State player and selected for the Kansas Shrine Bowl, Couchman was determined to prove that he could play at Kansas State University.

As a walk-on at KSU, there was no special treatment - no guarantee that he would ever have a chance to play on a Satur-

day afternoon.

What the KSU coaching staff soon saw is what SCHS fans had seen during Couchman’s final two years as an outstanding defensive end and fullback. They learned that Couchman has a motor that never stops and is matched by his desire to succeed.

Colborn was never going to be content just standing on the sideline at KSU home games. He wanted to earn a spot on the roster.

And as if he needed any more motivation, the

K-State coaching staff unknowingly provided it one day when he was simply referred to as “57” - the number of the jersey he was wearing.

Couchman didn’t like being just a number. He was determined to get the attention of the coaches so they would begin asking about the name behind the number.

“I wasn’t mad. I understood that’s what happens when you have a hundred guys on the practice field,” says Couchman.

“When you’re a walk-on they aren’t going to know

your name.”

No longer is Couchman known only as “57” - not after a season which saw him become a starter on special teams and get playing time in KSU’s 3114 thumping of Michigan in the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl.

“We were very focused for the game,” says Couchman. “Coach (Snyder) said this is a business trip from the second we stepped on the plane. We enjoyed some free time, but every one of us knew how bad coach wanted this win.”

The win capped a tremendous turnaround for the Wildcats who started the season 2-4 but finished 5-1 down the stretch.

“We stuck together,” says Couchman. “That’s what we talked about. We wanted to make a statement in how we finished the season. The starters and the captains kept saying if we had the ability to have one of the greatest turnarounds during a season in K-State history. It was like a family and we didn’t want to let anyone down.”

(See NUMBER on page 20)

The Scott County Record • Page 19 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Hugoton game is here Monday

Play-making doesn’t just happen in a game’s final minutes You see it all the time in sports.

A basketball player makes a clutch shot in the final seconds or a wide receiver makes a great catch in the end zone for the win.

Plays of the game, right?

They were certainly huge plays when the spotlight was at its brightest. And it takes mental and physical toughness and a sense of calmness - to respond in those situations.

But execution is no less important in a game that you win by 20 or 30 points.

One of the big differences is the timing.

“In a blowout win, you’re running the same plays and you have to react to the same situations. The only difference is that those situations occur earlier in the game and not the final minute or two,” notes SCHS boy’s head coach Glenn O’Neil.

That’s why good execution isn’t just something you think about when the game is on the line in the final minutes.

Scott City’s ability to battle back in the fourth quarter against Liberal on a night when they weren’t at the top of their game was a good opportunity for the Beavers to see how they could respond in a tough situation. It was the first time since Denver South (the fourth game of the season) that Scott City hadn’t entered the fourth quarter with a double-digit lead.

While it’s always good to see how a team will respond when there’s a little added pressure, Coach O’Neil feels he had a good idea of how his players would respond against stiff competition in their regular season win over Holcomb and in the Orange and Black Classic.

“We learned from how the boys played against McCook when we had to come back in the first quarter and from Palmer Ridge when they tried to come back on us and we made plays,” says O’Neil. “The Liberal game was one that went a little farther, but you still have to make the same plays at some point.”

Multi-dimensional Team It’s easy for opponents to assume that

GC Invite end,” says Lippelmann. “We’d like to have seen Warren in the finals. He was good enough to be there, but he put together a big finish on Saturday and wrestled like we know he can.”

The only other top medalist for the Beavers was Jurgens who advanced into the championship semi-finals before losing his first match to Reese Cokeley (St. James Academy), the No.

the Beavers are a two-dimensional offense with junior guards Brett Meyer (14 ppg) and Trey O’Neil (23.6 ppg) carrying the load.

Statistically, that’s true.

But the Beavers have shown they aren’t a two-man team with the others merely glorified window dressing.

With SCHS holding a two-point lead as last Friday’s game approached the two minute mark it was sophomore guard Dylan Hutchins who drilled a huge trey that was a dagger in the hearts of the upset-minded Redskins.

What’s a sophomore guard doing making a clutch play in the final two minutes?

Hutchins is the team’s leading threepoint shooter (13-of-29, 45%).

“When he has the open three we have no problem with him taking the shot,” says O’Neil. “Most of our three-point shooters are shooting well from out there.

If you are squared up (to the basket) and there isn’t a defender on you where you have to change your shot, then you are supposed to shoot it.”

The Beavers have been very effective from beyond the arc this season with four guards shooting better than 37%.

Hutchins is followed by sophomore Chantz Yager (8-of-19, 42%), O’Neil (33-of-85, 39%) and Meyer (13-of-35, 37%).

“Dylan has confidence in his shot. He took the shot that needed to be taken and he knocked it down,” adds O’Neil. “The rest of his game is a work in progress,

The Scott Community High School basketball game with Hugoton that was to be played on Tuesday has been rescheduled for Mon., Feb. 10, in Scott City.

GWAC dual tourney is Sat.

but his shooting is fine and he has a lot of belief in himself which is what we expect from our players.”

Even though the Redskins nearly ended Scott City’s win streak at 10 games, O’Neil isn’t too concerned about his team’s overall performance.

“Any time you have a team coming into your building with a big record that provides extra motivation. Give Liberal credit for playing a good game,” he says.

And, for the third consecutive game, the undersized Beavers were tested by a team that was bigger in the paint with two starters who were 6-7 and 6-5, along with another player coming off the bench who was 6-3, 220 pounds.

That size advantage, along with lack of movement by the Beavers on offense, contributed to the absence of scoring production in the low post. O’Neil, however, feels that Brayden Strine (7.2 ppg) and Sloan Baker (6.2 ppg) have made big strides so far this season. And what Strine lacked in scoring against the Redskins he made up for in other areas with seven rebounds, five assists and five steals.

“Our post players are continuing to evolve and assume a bigger role,” says O’Neil. “Until this year they haven’t been expected to provide a lot of offense.

Brayden was actually a guard until his sophomore year, which has been an adjustment.

“We didn’t have our best game against Liberal, but that happens. We survived and we need to learn from it.”

Scott Community High School grapplers will travel to Goodland for the Great West Activities Association dual tournament on Sat., Feb. 8.

Matches will get underway at 10:00 a.m. in the roundhouse with action on three mats.

The tournament will move ahead of schedule when possible, but will allow 10 minutes between rounds. All times after the first round are approximate.

10:00 a.m.

Goodland vs Holcomb Scott City vs Ulysses Colby vs Hugoton 11:30 a.m.

Goodland vs Scott City Holcomb vs Hugoton Ulysses vs Colby 1:30 p.m.

Goodland vs Ulysses Holcomb vs Colby Scott City vs Hugoton 3:00 p.m.

Goodland vs Hugoton Holcomb vs Ulysses Scott City vs Colby 4:30 p.m.

Goodland vs Colby Holcomb vs Scott City Ulysses vs Hugoton

WCHS game at Atwood cancelled The Wichita County High School game that was to be played at Atwood last Friday was cancelled due to inclement weather.

It will not be rescheduled.

The Indians will host Dighton High School in a Northwest Kansas League game on Tuesday.

(continued from page 17)

2 ranked wrestler in Class 5A, by a fall.

That put Jurgens in the consolation semi-finals where he dropped an 8-0 major decision to Nathan Gonzales (Doherty, Colo.) but finished the weekend with a 1-0 decision over Jacob Wilgers (Maize).

“He had a lot of down time since Christmas because of his shoulder and now we need to get him back into wrestling

shape,” Lippelmann said of the two-time state finalist.

Wyatt Kropp (145) finished in 13th place in the 32-team field. He was 3-2 for the weekend, closing out Saturday with back-to-back wins over Azam Ibragimov (Lewis-Palmer) by a 5-0 decision and in his final match winning by a 6-1 decision over Mitch Haug (Eagle Crest).

JV Tournament The Beavers had four medalists at the Larned junior varsity tournament on Saturday.

Freshman Trey Loftis (160) easily swept through his opponents for a gold medal.

He defeated Joseph Sanchez (Dodge City) by an 18-3 technical fall; won by a 14-2 major decision over Hayden Skaggs (Pratt) and finished off the day

with a pin over Rony Gonzales (Great Bend).

Kevin Aguilera (138) advanced to the finals with a 13-7 decision over Braulio Vargan (Great Bend) and a fall over Dalton McClendon (Larned) before losing in the finals by a technical fall to Jaden McRoberts (Dodge City).

Claiming third place medals were Abe Wiebe (152) and Tre Stewart (182).

The Scott County Record • Page 20 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Even in weak Valley Shocks are no fluke Wichita State (23-0, 100) rolled on with an 81-67 win over Evansville. Basketball fans in Kansas and around the nation will have to wait for the NCAA Tournament to find out how good the Shockers are.

E v e n by though Gregg Mac M a r s h a l l ’ s Stevenson team is one of only three undefeated teams in the nation, they have played a soft schedule.

Normally, the Missouri Valley is highly competitive, but the league is down this season and Creighton is no longer a member. That’s not a knock on Wichita State; it’s just an unusual season in that respect.

WSU proved it had an up-and-coming program by rolling to the Final Four last year. They might do it again.

The fact they join Arizona and Syracuse as the only undefeated teams in Division I is no fluke.

Give Weber Credit Kansas State is out of the race for the Big 12 title but, barring a late-season collapse, they should still make the NCAA Tournament.

Head coach Bruce Weber has done a superb coaching job.

Weber loses just two key players off this year’s team - seniors Shane Southwell and Will Spradling.

He has a talented group of freshmen and is only lacking a couple of inside players who can rebound and score.

Baseball is Coming Are you ready to watch the Kansas City Royals sitting in your easy chair with the front door open, the crickets chirping and a warm breeze filtering through the screen door?

It’s coming.

KC’s pitchers and catchers report to Surprise, Ariz., for spring training on February 14 and the full squad will arrive on February 20.

Kansas City is set at the every-day positions. If the hitting improves with the younger players, as it should, the run production will be much better than last season.

(See SHOCKS on page 23)

Companies partner to conserve LPC habitat Five oil and gas companies are voluntarily enrolling nearly 1.5 million acres of land under an innovative plan to conserve the lesser prairie-chicken.

This represents the first enrollment in the Lesser PrairieChicken Range-wide Conservation Plan, developed by the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (WAFWA) and state wildlife agencies in Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.

Continental Resources, Devon Energy, Apache Corp., Occidental Oil and Gas Corporation, and Samson Resources have committed to develop enrolled land in ways that minimize impacts on lesser prairiechicken habitat. They will also mitigate development impacts that cannot be avoided by providing funding for conservation on private land throughout the region.

Other companies in various industries, including oil and

Seattle down until the second quarter?

•not scoring your first points of the game until the final play of the third quarter?

•the opposing defense scoring as many points as the league’s top offense?

•the league’s worst special teams unit living up (or down) to that designation by giving up a touchdown to open the second half?

If the word isn’t embarrassing, I’m not sure what else it would be.

Peyton, the healing can’t begin until you get past denial and accept reality. * * * Of course, the bigger question which sports talking heads have been debating since Sunday is whether Seattle represents the new look of the NFL.

Number Earns Starting Role It was Couchman’s goal when the season began to earn a starting role on special teams. He accomplished that objective and then some.

He started the season as a second-team player against North Dakota State University, but by the second game had earned a starting role on kickoff and punt coverage units. In the Texas game he had been elevated to starter on all four special team units - punt/ kickoff coverage and return squads. Couchman was named “Special Teams Player of the

KDWP Report gas, pipeline, electric transmission and distribution, and wind energy, are now considering enrollment in the plan.

“The oil and gas industry enthusiastically supports the WAFWA range-wide plan,” said Ben Shepperd, Permian Basin Petroleum Association president. All five enrolling companies are members of the association, which also helped fund aerial surveys to verify chicken populations in 2012.

“We believe this plan offers the best, most comprehensive approach available to conserve the lesser-prairie chicken and its habitat, while providing some assurance for participating companies so we can continue to do business,” Shepperd said.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) endorsed the range-wide plan in October

and verified that companies who enroll would get legal assurances that their business activities could continue if the bird is listed under the federal Endangered Species Act. The federal agency has proposed listing the lesser prairie-chicken as threatened, and is expected to make a final decision in March.

“The Lesser Prairie-Chicken Range-wide Conservation Plan addresses all threats to the species and could represent an alternative to designating the bird as threatened,” said Ross Melinchuk, WAFWA Lesser Prairie Chicken Initiative Council chairman.

Under the range wide plan, mitigation fees are based on actual costs for habitat management and restoration. Fees range depending on factors like the number of acres impacted, quality of habitat affected, and habitat management costs.

Basically, developing in

higher quality habitat costs more, and working in lower quality habitat and cropland costs less.

Mitigation fees will help fund proven habitat management activities, such as voluntary agreements with landowners to protect or restore native grassland habitat.

Already in Texas, 73 landowners across the Texas Panhandle and Rolling Plains have enrolled 594,253 acres in a similar voluntary agreements for the lesser prairie-chicken.

Texas acres have grown more than five-fold since September, 2010.

New Mexico has more than 800,000 acres of oil and gas leases enrolled in their program, plus 1.5 million acres of ranch land. Oklahoma has submitted 200,000 acres of ranch land for approval in their CCAA and has requested USFWS to allow enrollment of an additional 200,000 acres.

number of NFC teams have the edge over their AFC counterparts.

It also gives added fuel to the argument that defense wins championships. While we are a firm believer, history doesn’t necessarily support that theory.

During ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown, no less an expert than Chris Berman pointed out that 38 (out of 45) Super Bowls have been won by a top 10 defense and 22 have been won by a top three defense.

End of argument, right?

Not necessarily.

Statistically, it doesn’t appear that one side of the ball carries more weight than the other.

For example: •38 times the Super Bowl champion had a top 10 offense.

•20 times they had a top three offense.

•Twenty-seven times, Super Bowls have matched a top five offense against a top five defense. The best defensive team holds a whopping 14-13 edge in that showdown.

Seattle may have drawn a road map for success in this year’s Super Bowl. But it’s far too early to say it’s a can’tmiss formula for success.

Defense, as they say, wins championships . . . and so does offense.

The pendulum swung in Seattle’s direction this year, but in a league that is constantly looking for ways to create more offense and give the offensive side of the ball, Seattle or any other defensiveminded team is going to have a difficult time keeping the pendulum on their side.

What next?

While he has enjoyed being on K-State’s special teams, Couchman still has bigger goals.

“My next step is to play defense,” says the 6-2, 215-pounder who is hoping to get some minutes at outside linebacker.

“If I have a good spring there’s a chance I can get onto the field at the end of games.”

That would be a huge step for any walk-on with one of the nation’s top Division I progams.

“My speed compares with

the other linebackers,” says Couchman. “It’s a matter of how bad I want it - how determined I am to earn a spot - and learning all the calls.

“And I have to earn the trust of the coach.”

“You grow up dreaming about playing college ball and being a DI athlete,” he adds.

“It’s everything I thought it would be and more.”

In the meantime, Couchman is committed to his off-season training program so that he can be ready for spring drills . . . living the dream . . . and proving he’s more than a number.

(continued from page 17)

To hear them describe Seattle and the rest of the league sounds eerily similar to the old debates that we used to hear when the Miami Hurricanes were compared to Nebraska or SEC teams were compared to teams in the Big 10.

NU and the Big 10 were always described as big, slowfooted players trying to compete against more speed and athleticism.

We’re hearing how Seattle’s overall speed, hard-hitting defense and their ability to play with reckless abandon have taken the NFL to another level and other teams either follow their lead or get left behind.

If that is the new pattern for success, it would appear that San Francisco and a growing

(continued from page 18)

Week” for his performance in the West Virginia game.

He finished the season with 11 tackles - including three in the bowl game against Michigan.

“I was blessed to be given the opportunity to play and I tried to make the most of it,” says Couchman. “I feel very fortunate that Coach Shawn Snyder and Coach (Bill) Snyder believed in me and gave me a chance.”

Couchman was one of just two freshmen to play on special teams.

The Scott County Record • Page 21 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Kropp is latest in Shrine football tradition at SCHS

Scott Community High School senior Warren Kropp has joined a long list of Beavers to be selected to play in the annual Kansas Shrine Bowl.

Kropp was recently recognized by Scott County Shriners for his bowl selection and his name has been added to a plaque that contains 24 other SCHS players who have competed in the East-West classic. Three former SCHS coaches have also taken part.

“I was a little surprised. I think everyone was surprised,” said Kropp with a huge grin about being selected.

Kropp was defensive end/tight end for the Beavers who finished 11-2. He was the team leader with 43 solo tackles in addition to 41 assists. He had 20 tackles for losses.

“I must have been doing my job. I guess I caught somebody’s attention,” he says.

Kropp has no plans to play football at the college level.

Idiocy Her license number led the officer to the residence where he indeed found a bucket full of yellow perch, but no one was home. A sheriff’s deputy notified him that the fishermen had left the lake, so seeing as he had no real evidence linking the fishermen, the woman and the bucket of fish, he figured he had nothing to lose by quietly watching the house for awhile.

The deal was sealed when the two fishermen arrived at the residence towing . . . you guessed it, a pink canoe! I’ll bet the fine they paid would have bought enough spray paint to repaint that canoe.

Warren Kropp, with his parents John and Kylee, was honored bhy local Shriners for being selected to play in the 2014 Shrine Bowl this summer.

(Record Photo)

(continued from page 18)

* * * Yet another fish story goes something like this.

An Ohio wildlife officer was following up on complaints of fishermen taking more than their legal limit of saugeye (a cross between saugers and walleye) at a state lake spillway. The officer observed one particular fisherman catch and keep several saugeyes along with numerous other fish.

As the man packed up to leave, the officer stopped him but found only a bucket of bluegills in his possession. Knowing full well he had seen the man catch several saugeyes, the officer stuck his

hand into the bucket, and there, buried deep beneath a heap of bluegills found a bag containing more than the legal limit of saugeyes. * * * Evidently the following deer hunter had a death wish (I’m trying hard to give him credit for not being just plain stupid.)

Once again in Ohio, during the extra weekend of deer firearms season, a wildlife officer observed the hunter enter the woods wearing a red hat and dark clothing.

He stopped the hunter, who was not wearing a stitch of hunter orange because (according to the hunter) he didn’t want to

Holcomb slips by JV girls in tourney

After digging themselves into an eight point hole in the opening period, the Scott Community High School girls came up short against Holcomb, 27-24, in the Lakin junior varsity round-robin tournament on Saturday.

SCHS rallied in the second period, cutting the halftime deficit to 13-11, but they were unable to keep that momentum in the second half.

Haley Allen led the the opening period while Lady Beavers with seven the Lady Beavers were points, followed by Paige claiming a 15-10 lead.

Winderlin with six.

They added just four points in the second periFall to Ulysses od while Ulysses took a In opening around 22-19 halftime lead. action against Ulysses, Ulysses pulled away in the Lady Beavers were the fourth quarter with a defeated, 49-33.

SCHS got off to a quick 15-4 scoring advantage.

Allen and Nancy start offensively behind the hot shooting of Brandi Wiebe each added six Shearmire who scored points while Kiana Yager seven of her 10 points in finished with four.

look like he was hunting!

I don’t know what else to say about this one! * * * And finally, having saved the best for last, here’s a story that appeared awhile back in the . On the evening of Nov. 22, during the Vermont firearms deer season, Marcel Fournier from Burlington, Vt., shot a doe. Now in Vermont it’s illegal to shoot an antlerless deer, so using epoxy and lag bolts, ol’ Marcel proceeded to bolt a set of antlers to the noggin of his prize, photograph himself with it then check it into Barnie’s Market as lawful game.

Yup, you guessed it, his fabrication job earned him a $400 fine and jail time, plus he can’t get a Vermont hunting, fishing or trapping license for at least three years.

While I’m glad that none of these stories took place in Kansas. I haven’t found a source for local screw-ups that are as funny as any of these.

Don’t be too hard on our brothers and sisters from PETA. I fried me up a mess of those sea kittens and they are goooood.

Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

Steve can be contacted by email at stevegilliland@idkcom.net

The Scott County Record • Page 22 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Takedown Kids Club Tournament of Champions February 1, 2014 Six-Years and Under 40: Kirbey Rohrbough fall by Kane Wise (Halstead) 0:27; fall by Jace Larkins (Mulvane) 0:13.

43: Trenton Frank tech fall by Bradlee Thompson (Ogden) 15-0; fall Taylor Siefken (CWC) 2:28; fall Madison Bennett (Southwest Grapplers) 0:49; dec. Trent Eck (Fort Scott) 12-5; dec. Peyton Tabor (Winfield) 10-4; fall by Easton Grantham (Maize) 2:44; dec. Griffin Hall (Salina) 6-4. Fifth place 49: Brodey Rohrbough maj. dec. by Zane Cuellar (Concordia) 8-0; fall by Gavin Driggs (Phillipsburg) 1:33.

49: Mathew Wheeler fall Asa Elk Nation (Lawrence) 0:14; fall Jacob Gonzales Jr., (Ulysses) 1:51; fall by Cason Wyrick (Parsons) 1:00; dec. by Noah Dowell (Hoxie) 10-4.

7-8-Years-Old 64: Collin McDaniel fall Knowlyn Egan (Derby) 0:32; fall Vincent Vadez (STA) 0:27; dec. Matthew Montoya (Southwest Grapplers) 5-2; fall by Zachary Wessley (Maize) 1:28.

Second place 9-10-Years-Old 67: Zach Rohrobough dec. by Jacob Stinnett (Fort Scott) 4-2; dec. by Garrett Davis (Maize) 2-0.

70: Conner Armendraiz dec. Joseph Triscornia (Olatha) 4-2; dec. by Reece Grafel (Oberlin) 4-2; maj. dec. Benidett Aburumuh (Millard South) 12-0; fall by Christian Rowe (Osage City) 2:00.

82: Leightyn Heim dec. Brody Murk (Ottawa Co.) 2-0; dec. Maximus Sublett (Wichita Blue Knights) 4-0; maj. dec.

by Jared Simma (Cougars) 8-0; dec. Hunter Davis (Meade Co.) 1-0; dec. by Joaquin Castillo (Leoti) 4-0.

85: Kale Wheeler tech fall Samuel Harjo (Lawrence) 15-0; dec. Nolan Craine (Mulvane) 2-0; dec. by Jayden Seabolt (Gray Co.) 3-0; fall Gabe Thielbar (MO West) 0:55; dec. by Nolan Craine (Mulvane) 2-0. Fourth place 110: Ronnie Weathers overtime by Sterig Harp (Smoky Valley) 2-0; fall by Eli King (Tonganoxie) 2:56.

120: Lance Miller maj. dec. Jared Ferguson (Ottawa) 14-0; maj. dec. by Blayze Standley (Russell) 11-0; dec. Izzak Hernandez (Hugoton) 2-1; dec. by Brendan Oshel (East Kansas) 7-0; dec. by Caden Reeves (Bobcat Wrestling) 6-0.

Sixth place 130: Jarron Gregory dec. by Rex Johnsen (MWC) 8-5; fall Braxton McDaniel (Ogden) 0:56. Second place 11-12-Years-Old 84: Justus McDaniel tech fall Jakob Snellings (Marysville) 15-0; fall Devin Dunn (Team Hard Knox) 0:32; fall Anthony Mariche (Dodge City) 2:15; fall by Darryl Rylant (Kansas Young Guns) 2:16; dec. by Bret Minor (Slyterdome) 7-2; maj. dec. Logan James (MWC) 10-0. Fifth place 84: Theron Tucker db. overtime Larry Nadeau (CWC) 1-0; dec. by Rowdy Martin (Ulysses) 3-0; tech fall Riley Kraft (Colby) 15-0; dec. by Jonathan Ortiz (Lakin) 4-0.

92: Braylin Heim fall by Cade Lindsey (Derby) 0:59; fall by Taron Burkhart (Hays) 1:26.

120: Cale Goodman fall by Cody Schmidt (Cougars) 0:44; dec. Cole Amlong (Norton) 5-1; maj. dec. by Nick James (Kearney) 10-0.

13-14-Years-Old 205: Nic Cheney fall Walker Atkinson (Thunderbird) 2:07; fall Dakota Riggs (Haysville) 4:24; fall by Kobie Green (Andover) 1:10. Third place.

Lakin Tournament January 25, 2014

6-Years and Under 43A: Eli Lisenby won by disqualification over Javonte Andrade (Liberal); dec. by Kaleigh Fuller (Lakin), 10-3; pinned Carter Williamson (Ulysses), 2:33. First place.

43B: Trenton Frank pinned Jenna Simmons (Gray Co.), maj. dec. Mace Mortensen (Ulysses), 14-0; dec. by Julian Orrantia (Liberal), 9-5. Second place.

49: Waylon Ricker fall Gavin Kelley (DC Wranglers) 0:31; fall Brodey Rohrbough (Scott City) 0:37; fall Malakai Hassler (Syracuse) 0:41. First place 49: Brodey Rohrbough dec. Malakai Hassler (Syracuse) 8-6; fall by Waylon Ricker (Scott City) 0:37; tech fall by Gavin Kelley (DC Wranglers) 20-3. Third place 49A: Mathew Wheeler fall Aja Ysac (Ulysses) 0:21; fall Brayson Roitz (Sublette) 0:14; tech fall Kasten Wren (Scott City) 17-0. First place 49A: Kasten Wren fall Brayson Roitz (Sublette) 0:44; fall Aja Ysac (Ulysses) 0:32; tech fall by Mathew Wheeler (Scott City) 17-0. Second place 55A: Kade John dec. by Israel Pulido (Leoti) 15-14; fall by Grant Mendenhall (Lakin) 0:05. Third place 67-73: Jacob Franco fall by Khris Hermosillo (Leoti) 0:19; dec. by Javan Farr (Lakin) 11-7; dec. by Elias Sherer (Tribune) 9-5. Fourth place 7-8-Years-Old 58B: Cody Vance fall by Jaun Rico Jr., (Ulysses) 0:19; maj. dec. by Connor Wikoff (Great Gold GC) 8-0; maj. dec.

by Brodie Pipkin (Liberal) 9-1. Fourth place 61A: Houston Frank fall Adriel Andrade (Liberal) 0:02; maj. dec. by Matthew Cook (Meade Co.) 10-2. Second place 61B: Kooper Wright fall Mason Wiginton (Ulysses); fall Mackenzie Cauthon (Sublette) 0:14; fall Gregory Martinez (Holcomb) 0:22. First place 73: Brythonic Gregory fall by Kasen Felty (Tribune); fall

by Kaleb Jaquez (Ulysses) 0:36; fall by Carson Chamberlain (Hugoton) 0:27; fall by Brandon Price (Leoti) 0:24. Fifth place 76-80: Wyatt Ricker fall by Max Whitham (Tribune) 0:37; fall by Waylon Witliff (Greater Gold GC) 1:29. Third place 9-10-Years-Old 85-90A: Kale Wheeler fall Chandler Seaton (Leoit) 2:15; tech fall Seth Williams (Tribune) 16-0; dec. Joshua Janas (Southwest Grapplers) 7-0; maj. dec. Kolby Johnson (Holcomb) 11-0. First place 120-130: Jarron Gregory fall Alex Rivero (Liberal) 0:27; fall Izzak Hernandez (Hugoton) 0:31; fall Alex Medina (Holcomb) 2:22; fall Jackson Harris (Lakin) 2:41. First place

SCHS Wrestling Rock Felton Invitational Jan. 31-Feb. 1, 2014 • at Garden City 106: Zach Tucker pinned by Hunter Matney (Ponderosa), 0:38; dec. by Anthony Auillier (Emporia), 8-7; dec. by Zac Grantham (Maize), 8-2; dec. Israel Montoya (Hugoton), 10-7.

126: James Jurgens maj. dec. Brad Kadlubowski (LewisPalmer), 12-3; dec. Luis Mendoza (Ulysses), 7-5; dec. Marco Perez (Ark City), 8-2; pinned by Reese Cokeley (St. James Academy), 4:13; maj. dec. by Nathan Gonzales (Doherty), 8-0; dec. Jacob Wilgers (Maize), 1-0. Fifth place.

145: Wyatt Kropp pinned by Chris Cos (Pine Creek), 3:18; maj. dec. Richard Duran (Pueblo East), 11-0; dec. by Alex Hydock (Maize), 3-1 OT; dec. Azam Ibragimov (Lewis-Palmer), 5-0; dec. Mitch Haug (Eagle Crest), 6-1.

160: Trey Loftis tech. fall by Jeremy Jaquess (Sand Creek), 19-3; maj. dec. by Jacob Morin (Pueblo West), 9-1.

170: Warren Kropp maj. dec. Cordell Clark (Newton), 9-1; dec. by Isaac Ortiz (Pine Creek), 3-1 OT; pinned Dylan Lucius (Scottsbluff), 1:12; maj. dec. Simon Schaefer (Monte Vista), 9-0; dec. Anthony Abbott (Canon City), 5-1; dec. Isaac Ortiz (Pine Creek), 4-1. Third place.

285: Cole Birney pinned by Andrew Aratani (Scottsbluff), 0:17; pinned by Brennan Tate (Dodge City), 0:39.

Larned JV Tournament February 1, 2014 126: Morgen Roberts maj. dec. by Daniel Law (Ulysses), 15-1; pinned by Ronaldo Lopez (Dodge City).

138: Kevin Aguilera dec. Braulio Vargan (Great Bend), 137; pinned Dalton McClendon (Larned); tech. fall by Jaden McRoberts (Dodge City), 16-0. Second place 152: Abe Wiebe maj. dec. by Samuel Cruz (Liberal), 18-6; pinned Camdon Sweet (Pratt); pinned Carlos Ruiz (Dodge City); pinned Kaden Everett (UIysses). Third place 160: Trey Loftis tech. fall Joseph Sanchez (Dodge City), 18-3; maj. dec. Hayden Skaggs (Pratt), 14-2; pinned Rony Gonzales (Great Bend). First place.

182: Tre Stewart maj. dec. by Victor Monarrez (Liberal), 11-3; dec. Kylee Baca (Lakin), 4-0; pinned Princeton Grice (Dodge City); dec. by Mason Torres (Great Bend), 7-4. Third place.

195: Garrett Osborn dec. by Zach Howarth (Dodge City), 13-6; pinned Remington Trevino (Sublette); dec. by Alfdredo Luna (Hugoton), 10-8 OT; tech. fall George Waisa (Liberal), 16-0; dec. by Landan Hickey (Hugoton), 4-3. Fifth place

The Scott County Record • Page 23 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

7th grade Jays finish strong against Ulysses Protecting a one point lead with only 1-1/2 minutes remaining, the Scott City Middle School seventh graders closed out Monday’s game with a 9-0 scoring run to pull away from Ulysses, 44-34, on the home floor.

It was a tough outing for the Bluejays Ulysses 34 who had 7th Grade 44 erased a 15-7 deficit in the opening period against the taller Tiger Cubs.

SCMS was still trailing, 18-11, midway into the second period when they closed out the half with seven unanswered points.

Marshall Faurot, who finished with a team high 12 points, hit back-toback baskets and Shea Morris added a threepointer with just under a minute remaining to send both teams into the locker room tied at 18-18.

Wyatt Hayes, who added 10 points, hit a basket late in the third period that put the Bluejays on top, 27-26, and they never trailed again. Parker Vulgamore scored all eight of his points in the final period, including a pair of three-pointers. His second trey gave SCMS a 33-28 lead with 3:51 remaining.

Ulysses cut that advantage to 35-34 before SCMS scored the games final nine points - seven at the charity stripe.

Jack Thomas added

Shocks

(continued from page 20)

Starting pitching and the bullpen will be the two most important position groups.

KC’s bullpen is wellestablished. The big unknown, like most MLB teams, is the starting pitching. If the new staff is just slightly more effective than the 2013 starters, the Royals will be a major factor in the American League Central pennant chase.

Free agent starting pitcher Ervin Santana hasn’t signed with another team. Santana wants a four-year contract for $60 million and no owner has stepped forward with a deal. The hunch here is that Santana will be back with KC. Owner David Glass has loosened the purse strings and KC has a payroll of over $90 million. The fans need to reciprocate with solid support for the 2014 ball club.

nine points and Morris finished with five.

“B” Team Wins In the “B” team game, Scott City held on for a 20-18 win. The Bluejays outscored Ulysses 8-0 in the third period that extended their lead to 15-10 entering the final period.

Jose Trejo led the team with six points and Morris added five.

The SCMS “C” team rolled to a 26-10 win with eight players making the scoring column. They were led by Jordan Smith with 10 points.

Tables are Turned When the same two teams met a week earlier at Ulysses it was the Tiger Cubs coming out on top, 38-32.

The Bluejays were in control of the game for the first 12 minutes, opening up a 27-17 halftime lead. They added just one field goal after the intermission as Ulysses completed the comeback with a 12-3 scoring edge in the final period.

Faurot poured in a game high 21 points - 14 of those coming in the first quarter.

The SCMS “B” team had no trouble collecting a 28-16 win.

Eight players contributed offensively, led by Trejo and Miles Haire with six and five points, respectively.

SCMS dropped the “C” team game, 15-11. They were led by Smith with four points.

Scott City Stars Swim Club Great Bend Invitational January 18, 2014 Girl’s Division 50m Freestyle 8-years and under: Megan Trout, 3rd, 59.85.

9-10 years: Hope Wiechman, 3rd, 39.36.

13-14 years: Kylee Trout, 1st, 29.26; Hallie Wiechman, 7th, 32.72.

15-years and over: Reagan Smyth, 1st, 2:46.98.

100m Freestyle 9-10 years: Hope Wiechman, 4th, 1:38.02.

13-14 years: Kylee Trout, 1st, 1:04.85.

15-years and over: Reagan Smyth, 3rd, 29.10.

200m Freestyle 13-14 years: Kylee Trout, 1st, 2:28.65.

100m Backstroke 13-14 years: Kylee Trout, 2nd, 1:20.51; Halie Wiechman, 8th, 1:31.16.

15-years and over: Reagan Smyth, 3rd, 1:28.84 50m Breaststroke 9-10 years: Hope Wiechman, 5th, 58.02.

100m Breaststroke 13-14 years: Kylee Trout, 1st, 1:29.76; Hallie Wiechman, 6th, 1:42.73.

15-years and over: Reagan Smyth, 3rd, 1:42.15.

50m Butterfly 9-10 years: Hope Wiechman, 5th, 55.72.

100m Butterfly 13-14 years: Hallie Wiechman, 2nd, 1:32.04.

15-years and over: Reagan Smyth, 2nd, 1:25.82.

100m Individual Medley 9-10 years: Hope Wiechman, 5th, 1:53.26.

200m Individual Medley 13-14 years: Hallie Wiechman, 3rd, 3:17.76.

Boy’s Division 50m Freestyle 8-years and under: Waylon Ricker, 5th, 1:09.83 9-10 years: Wyatt Ricker, 2nd, 44.67.

50m Backstroke 9-10 years: Wyatt Ricker, 1st, 55.98.

100m Individual Medley 9-10 years: Wyatt Ricker, 2nd, 2:16.64 Mixed Division 25m Mixed Freestyle 8-years and under: Waylon Ricker, 5th, 23.91; Megan Trout, 8th, 26.26.

200m Mixed Freestyle Relay 13-years and over: Kylee Trout, Hallie Wiechman, Hope Wiechman, Reagan Smyth, 2nd, 2:10.54.

25m Mixed Backstroke 8-years and under: Waylon Ricker, 7th, 31.41; Megan Trout, 8th, 33.38.

200m Medley Relay 13-years and over:Hallie Wiechman, Kylee Trout, Reagan Smyth, Hope Wiechman, 3rd, 2:46.79.

Support Your Hometown Merchants!

SCMS seventh grader Marshall Faurot drives between two Ulysses defenders for a basket during Monday’s action.

(Record Photo)

8th grade Bluejays slip by Ulysses Connecting on seven of 10 free throws in the final period, the Scott City Middle School eighth graders were able to pull away for a 32-26 win at Ulysses on Monday.

SCMS scored just one field goal in the final period, but that was enough to extend a 23-20 lead after three quarters.

Reid Brunswig led the Bluejays with 11 points, followed by Nick Nowak and Austen Turner with

nine and six points, respectively.

The “B” team Bluejays lost to Ulysses, 30-20.

They were led in scoring by Marco Vasquez and Austin Rios with six and five points, respectively.

Fall to Tiger Cubs When the Bluejays played Ulysses on the home floor just a week earlier it was the Tiger Cubs who came away with a 40-37 win.

The third quarter was a disaster for SCMS when they were outscored by Ulysses, 10-3.

Trailing by six points at the half, Scott City rallied to tie the score, 28-28 after three quarters. Brunswig, who finished with a game high 19 points, scored eight during the third quarter comeback.

Nowak added 12 points.

The SCMS “B” team lost to Ulysses, 32-4.

Hawks Lay an Egg Last Saturday the Kansas basketball team had a chance to all but wrap up the Big 12 championship against Texas. Instead, they were smacked around by the Longhorns and lost 81-69.

KU had one starter who was competitive, Wayne Selden. The other four appeared to be physically and mentally intimidated.

The most troubling factor in the Texas game was the lack of effort. It’s getting late in the season to play that kind of game, young team or not.

KU’s loss was reminiscent of a number of NCAA games in the recent past when the Jayhawks were defeated by teams that were heavy underdogs. In the NCAA Tournament, it just takes one game when the focus and competitive zeal are lacking and the season is over.

The Scott County Record • Page 24 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Beavers bounce back to win final game in JV tourney The Scott Community High School boys relied on their defense to salvage a win in the final game of the Lakin roundrobin junior varsity tournament on Monday.

Trailing 23-15 at the half, SCHS limited Lakin to just nine points over the final 16 minutes to come away with a 37-32 win.

Scott City still trailed 29-22 entering Scott City 37 Lakin 32 the final period before closing with a 15-3 scoring run.

Drew Duff scored all seven of his points in the second half - five in the final period - while freshman guard Matt Jenkins scored his seven points after the intermission, including two treys.

Also sharing scoring honors with seven points each were freshmen Bo Hess and Kyle Cure.

Fall to Ulysses The Beavers had a rough start to the tournament on Saturday with losses to Ulysses (38-31) and Holcomb (49-35).

In the tournament opener against Ulysses, both teams were tied 11-11 after one quarter before the Tigers outscored SCHS 22-12 in the second and third periods.

Hess led all scorers in the game with 16 points while freshman Jess Drohman and sophomore

Close From then on it was a dog fight for the Beavers who trailed 21-13 when O’Neil picked up his second foul at the 3:04 mark in the second quarter. Scott City was able to close out the half with a strong scoring run, cutting the lead to 23-22 when O’Neil hit three free throws after being fouled on a three-point attempt.

Still, Scott City found itself trailing 25-22 at halftime - only the second time they have trailed this year at the intermission but again seemed to have the momentum with a 6-0 scoring run early in the third period. Two baskets

by Baker and a 15-foot jumper by junior guard Brett Meyer gave the Beavers only their second lead of the night, 28-27.

The Beavers later added another six point burst that included a three-point play by Hutchins followed by one of the dazzling offensive plays of the night.

A long pass was made to Baker who had slipped behind the defense for a potential breakaway layup, but the ball sailed over his head and was going out of bounds when he was able to make a saving pass to Brayden Strine who quickly passed to Meyer who was standing behind the three-point line for a basket that tied the game at 37-37.

Nick Storm added four points each.

Normally, junior guard Chantz Yager and sophomore guard Dylan Hutchins will contribute two quarters of play with the junior varsity, but were unavailable for the tournament in order to maintain their varsity eligibility.

The loss of their floor leadership and offense was evident.

“But this is an opportunity for other boys to step up and show us what they can do,” says coach Brian Gentry.

Fast Start Not Enough The Beavers had a big first quarter against Holcomb in their second game on Saturday, jumping out to a 17-14 lead at the break.

However, their offense ground to a halt over the next three quarters in a 49-35 loss to the Longhorns.

A fast-paced first quarter suited the Beavers who opened up a 15-8 lead following a driving layup by Hess. He scored 12 of his game high 18 points in the first eight minutes.

SCHS was limited to just three field goals during the next two quarters.

Holcomb took control of the game with a 12-2 run to start the second period.

Cure finished with eight points while Justin Faurot added four.

SCHS sophomore Nick Storm pulls down a rebound during action against Holcomb at the Lakin junior varsity tournament on Saturday.

(Record Photo)

(continued from page 17)

However, SCHS was still down 41-37 after Liberal made their first basket of the fourth quarter. Scott City’s defense then took over the game, limiting the Redskins to just one field goal over the next 5-1/2 minutes.

O’Neil jump-started another six point scoring surge with a pair of free throws and a 12foot jumper, followed by Brayden Strine’s putback that put the Beavers on top, 43-41.

Meyer, who finished with 15 points, added another basket at the 3:16 mark that gave SCHS a 45-43 advantage before Hutchins drilled his huge three-pointer with 1:59 to play.

Liberal was able to cut the lead to a single basket following the rebound and putback after missing the back side of a one-andone. Meyer answered with a short jumper in the lane that extended the lead to 50-46 with 1:05 on the clock.

After Liberal regained possession following a missed free throw by Scott City, O’Neil blocked a shot attempt and Baker followed moments later with a rebound. Meyer added a pair of free throws with 12.8 seconds remaining that put the game away.

“These were definitely the most physical players that we’ve seen inside,” said Strine, who was limited to just four points.

“Sometimes we think we can outjump everyone and we don’t block out like we should. We saw how that went over. When we don’t block out well we give up a lot of rebounds.”

Strine and Baker (3of-4 FG, 7 pts.) finished with seven and six rebounds, respectively. The Redskins held a 32-19 advantage under the boards, including 11 offensive rebounds.

Liberal was also able to limit Baker and Strine to eight points in the paint.

“Give Liberal credit for playing hard defense.

There weren’t the open (passing) lanes that we normally have,” said Strine.

Finding themselves trailing in the fourth quarter for only the second time this season was a learning experience for the Beavers who had won their previous 10 games by an average of 24 points.

“It was good for us to be in a tight game down the stretch and to have to come from behind,” added O’Neil. “If we find ourselves in this situation at sub-state or state we know that we have the ability to dig ourselves out of a hole.”

We have all of your snow gear here!

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The Scott County Record • Page 25 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

reflections . . . at Lake Scott

The Scott County Record

Farm

Page 26 - Thursday, February 6, 2014

Co-ops are more than concrete and steel

Dubbed “skyscrapers of the plains,” grain elevators and co-operatives have a colorful history in Kansas.

Farmer cooperatives were brought about by a series of national events and legislation in the late 1800s and early 1900s, triggered in part by an economic depression throughout the farming community due to an unequal playing field with

ag briefs

Beaton to serve on committee John Beaton was elected to represent LAA No. 3 on the Scott County FSA committee for a second term.

Committee members serve a three-year term and are responsible for making decisions on FSA disaster, conservation, commodity and price support programs, as well as other federal farm program issues.

Other county committee members are Judy Winderlin and Allen Hess.

FB accepts nominations for Century Farms

The Kansas Farm Bureau “Century Farm” program will recognize family farms whose current owner/operator is related to the owner/ operator of the farm in 1914 or before.

Qualifying farmers will receive a farm sign designating “Century Farm” status from Farm Bureau.

During the first 14 years of the Century Farm program, more than 2,200 family farms qualified for the designation.

The deadline for consideration is May 15. Complete details can be obtained at county Farm Bureau offices or on the KFB website, http://www. kfb.org/getinvolved/ centuryfarms/

FB supports new farm bill

Kansas Farm Bureau President Steve Baccus has welcomed final passage of the farm bill.

“This bill gives farmers and ranchers the certainty they need,” said Baccus.

“It strengthens crop insurance, helps stockmen who’ve been hammered by natural disasters and improves conservation programs.

“The uncertainty surrounding farm programs has been burdensome for our farmers and ranchers and has begun to impede everyday business opportunities,” he said.

Ag Commentary Tom Parker

contributing columnist

Kansas Farmers Union

big businesses such as J.P. Morgan and Carnegie, From their beginnings they were more about people than business enterprise. One early co-op pioneer said, “Co-ops work because of the people.”

Their success lay in

working together toward a common goal and vision at a local level rather than at a national level.

On a national level, cooperatives weren’t legal until 1912. Kansas, however, got an earlier start in 1878. At roughly the same period the National Farmers Union rose from the ashes of the Farmers Alliance, first in Texas in 1902 and then spreading across the South.

Like its predecessor, NFU believed in cooperatives and worked to improve cooperative law.

The organization reached Kansas in 1905, by which time regulations had improved dramatically.

Those early co-ops were different than what we know today.

“We think of co-ops as grain elevators, but a lot of them were founded to bring in groceries or ship

in hay,” said Tom Giessel, honorary Kansas Farmers Union historian and Pawnee County Farmers Union president. “Grain handling was just one aspect of it.”

It soon became apparent that farmers needed both a local co-op and a regional co-op, not only for grain marketing but for grain purchasing. In 1915 the KFU formed a jobbing association that

could buy from its own co-ops, a move supported by the state legislature.

As word got out of the benefits of co-ops, more communities wanted information. KFU stepped in with lecturers and organizers, Giessel said. The former would go out and preach the gospel of cooperatives and the latter would follow up to organize local organizations.

(See CO-OPS on page 27)

How much is different from the ‘80s? farm talk

Are ag lenders refighting the last war?

Daryll Ray and Harwood Schaffer

As the 2013 corn crop was being planted, futures prices were above $6 a bushel with an occasional bump above $7.

Traders were concerned that the planting problems farmers were experiencing would result in reduced production.

By the end of July, with fewer concerns about the size of the corn crop, the priced dropped below $5.00.

Since then the price has trended downward so that as this column is being written,

the March 2014 futures contract price for corn is $4.295.

In negative basis areas, the cash price of corn is closer to $4. Iowa State University estimates that for fields of corn following soybeans and yielding 200 bushels per acre the total cost per bushel would be $4.24.

After all the talk about a new price plateau and now with tumbling crop prices, could we see corn prices between $2 and $3 in the near future - with

other prices at the same relative level?

Say it ain’t so Joe! As farmers face lower prices, we hear assurances that farmers are not in the same situation that they were in the 1980s when lenders were making asset-based loans. At that time, land prices were increasing, pumping up net worth even though some farmers had a negative cash flow.

The result of the assetbased loans in that atmosphere left farmers with a high debtto-asset ratio.

Today loans are based on profit and loss statements and the ability to repay the loan.

As a result, the debt-to-asset

ratio for today’s farmers is much lower than it was in the earlier period and thus the confidence.

The question that is often asked of military leaders as they plan for the future is whether or not they are really refighting the last war.

We wonder whether or not ag lenders are refighting the last war.

Consider this for a moment: Suppose corn production for both the 2013 and 2014 crop years come in at or above 14 billion bushels and our export competitors continue to expand their production.

In addition, let’s suppose that (See DIFFERENT on page 27)

Goal of LPC Initiative is to restore habitat

by Eric Wiens NRCS, rangeland fire and wildlife ecologist

The Lesser PrairieChicken is one of the iconic figures of the Great Plains.

Each spring males provide a spectacular display on areas known as leks.

The display consists of stomping, inflating reddish pink air sacs on their neck, and producing a variety of unique sounds.

Unfortunately, since

Commodity Classic in Manhattan The annual Kansas Commodity Classic in Manhattan on Thurs., Feb. 13, will provide farmers with in-depth information on grain markets, a 2014 weather outlook, and projects in some of the state’s key commodities.

The Classic is the annual convention of the Kansas Corn, Wheat and Grain Sorghum Associations. Admission is free and includes a complimentary lunch.

The morning session will open at 9:00 a.m. with remarks from Acting Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Jackie McClaskey, followed by a presentation on the Vision for the Future of Water in Kansas. Growers will have the opportunity to discuss the vision and ask questions.

A meteorologist will discuss the weather outlook for 2014.

John Floros, dean of the K-State College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension will make comments about current projects.

(See CLASSIC on page 27)

the 1800s, the Lesser Prairie-Chicken has experienced periods of hardship that led them to their current state of despair.

The LPC now occupies a range reduced by roughly 80-90%, much of which has been attributed to habitat degradation.

This range extends through a five-state region including Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Colorado.

While existing in a

number of states this is not to be confused with a population that is healthy and widespread. Most sources agree the current population only represents a mere fraction of its historic numbers.

In 2012, it was estimated there were around 34,000 Lesser PrairieChickens range wide, while the estimates for 2013 reached just over 17,600.

Through the NRCS,

Market Report Closing prices on February 5, 2014 Winona Feed and Grain Bartlett Grain Wheat..................

$ 6.36

Milo ....................

$ 4.20

White Wheat .......

Corn ...................

Soybeans ...........

$ 6.51 $ 4.48 $ 12.36

Scott City Cooperative Wheat..................

White Wheat .......

Milo (bu.).............

Corn....................

Soybeans ...........

Sunflowers..........

ADM Grain

$ 6.36

Wheat..................

$ 6.36

Milo (bu.).............

$ 4.20

White Wheat ....... $ N/A Corn....................

Weather 55

3

29

$ 4.48

Jan. 30

47

28

$ 15.95

February 1

25

8

$ 4.20

Jan. 29

$ 12.36

Jan. 31

February 2 February 3

28 33 36

4

P

20

2

11

Moisture Totals

Corn....................

$ 4.55

February

$ 16.50

2014 Total

Sunflowers..........

L

Jan. 28

$ 6.36

Soybeans............

H

$ 6.51

Wheat..................

Milo (bu.).............

$ 4.50

$ 4.25

January

$ 12.39

Snowfall (Feb. 1)

0.23 0.06

1/2 inch 0.29

Have questions about the Scott Community Foundation? call 872-3790 or e-mail: scottcf@wbsnet.org

landowners have an opportunity to be proactive and help preserve the integrity of our rangelands by enrolling in the Lesser Prairie Chicken Initiative (LPCI). With the LPCI landowners are eligible to receive cost-share assistance for various forms of management on native range or expired/expiring CRP. This includes, but is not limited to, prescribed grazing, prescribed burn-

ing, range seeding and brush control. The cutoff date for enrollment is March 21.

Contact your local NRCS office and let us help you do your part to make sure the LPC does not become an image of the past, but is preserved for future generations.

For more information call me (872-3230, ext.

101), email (bow06@ksu. edu) or stop by the Scott County NRCS office.

Co-ops

The Scott County Record • Page 27 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

(continued from page 26)

“It was all very structured and effective,” he said. “KFU was very good at co-op development.”

At the time KFU was printing 28,000 newspapers weekly to spread the news. Competition, however, didn’t take the KFU intrusion lightly. One article in 1916 claimed that some grain buyers for independent and old-line elevators offered stockholders in the union eleva-

tors a half-cent more for a bushel of wheat than what the union elevators were paying.

“These buyers are not bidding on your wheat,” the author wrote, “they’re bidding on your loyalty.

Would you sell it for that much?”

The organization fell on hard times during World War I. It was undercapitalized and struggling to stay afloat.

Weed management program in Ness City

Different

One of the top priorities for crop producers is efficient weed control.

A weed management update will be held on Wed., Feb. 19, 2:00 p.m., at the Ness County Fairgrounds, Ness City.

It is sponsored by the Walnut Creek Extension District. There is no cost to attend, but the district does ask that those planning to attend RSVP (877-798-3921) by Feb. 17.

At least 10 people must register for the meeting to be offered.

Featured speakers will be Dallas Peterson and Curtis Thompson, Kansas State University Extension weed scientists.

Topics to be covered include: optimizing glyphosate performance, managing herbicide resistant weeds, and weed control updates.

Three CCA credits or three CEU hours in pest management for 1A Commercial Pesticide Applicator Recertification can be earned.

Anyone with questions can contact Extension Agent Chris Long (1-877-798-3921).

the major importing countries don’t face significant production problems during the next couple years.

If those things were to happen, it would not be unreasonable for corn exports in each of the two crop years to come in at 100 to 200 million bushels or more below USDA’s

Classic

(continued from page 26)

Shannon Schlecht, director of policy, U.S. Wheat Associates, will discuss exports and trade.

Schlecht is located in USW Headquarters in Arlington, Va. He has also had stints in USW’s Middle East, East and North Africa Region in Cairo, Egypt, and West Coast Office in Portland, Ore. Darrell Holaday, of Country Futures in Frankfort, Ks., will provide an update on commodity markets.

After lunch, Mitch Holthus, the voice of the Kansas City Chiefs, will be the featured speaker.

The event is free to attend, but pre-registration is encouraged by calling 866-759-4328 or visit our website at kswheat. com.

At the 1918 convention in Wichita it was proposed that the organization disband. According to a newspaper report, there were men with tears in their eyes, distraught over the idea - so distraught that they raised the needed capital to keep KFU viable.

By 1920 the organization was on the rebound.

An article in “Country Gentleman” magazine

stated that “Cooperation not only helps the cooperators, it helps the community.”

“I really love that quote,” Giessel said.

“Those people had a real strong sense of community. They knew that if they didn’t do it themselves, it wasn’t going to happen.

They struggled and they didn’t always succeed, but they always kept coming back and trying. My jaw

drops when I read stories about those early co-ops.”

An article in a Manhattan newspaper during the 1920s asked if Kansas was the greatest state for co-ops. The question was part hyperbole and part boosterism, but it reflected the explosive growth witnessed by organizations like KFU. Cooperatives would become the norm rather than the exception, and there was no turn-

ing back the clock. Those prairie skyscrapers would stand tall and proud over every town no matter how small or remote.

Still, it’s important to remember those early days and what they signified, Giessel said. “When you think about a co-op you can’t just think about concrete and steel,” he said. “You have to think about the people. That’s what it’s all about.”

300 million bushels or so below 2013 crop year expectations.

If much of this were to happen, by 2014 the yearending stocks of corn could easily break past 2.5 billion bushels. With that size carryover, the corn price would continue its fall heading toward the

variable cost of production.

If above-trend harvests appear in the 2015 crop year, could we see $2 corn?

Say it ain’t so Joe!

(continued from page 26)

already low January projection for the 2013 crop of 1.450 billion bushels.

(How low is the January projection of 1.450 billion bushels? Only in three of the last 38 crop years have corn exports been below 1.450 billion bushels 1985, 1993 and last year.)

It is unlikely that the use

of corn to produce ethanol will increase much above current expectations; probably more likely to fall short than exceed current expectations.

In addition, suppose livestock disease problems reduce annual feed demand during the 2013 and 2014 crop years by

Daryll Ray and Harwood Schaffer are with the Agricultural Policy Analysis Center, University of Tennessee

$

7

The Scott County Record • Page 28 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Call 872-2090 today!

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Dirks Earthmoving Co.

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General Dentistry, Cosmetics, and Insurance Accepted

We welcome new patients.

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We service and repair all that we sell.

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Free estimates and 16 plus years of experience.

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Treatment of Ocular Disease • Glaucoma Detection Children’s Vision • Glasses • Contact Lenses

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106 W. 4th • Scott City • 872-2020 • Emergencies: 872-2736

Turner Sheet Metal

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CHAMBLESS ROOFING Residential

All Types of Roofing

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Cedar Shake and Shingle Specialists Return to Craftsmanship Attention to Detail and Quality Guaranteed 620-872-2679 • 1-800-401-2683

1851 S. Hwy. 83 • Scott City 872-2954 Shop • 1-800-201-2954

Ron Turner Owner

Walker Plumbing, Inc. Backhoe & Trenching services • Irrigation & gas leak repairs • Full-line irrigation parts T-L center pivot dealer Floor heat systems Pump & install septic systems Boring equipment

423 S. Mesquite Rd. • Scott City • 872-2130

Scott City Clinic Daniel R. Dunn, MD Family Practice

872-2187

Matthew Lightner, MD Family Practice

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Megan Dirks, AP, RN-BC Ryan Michels, PA Mindy Schrader, PA

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The Scott County Record • Page 29 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Call 872-2090 today!

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Fur-Fection

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Paul Cramer, Owner

620-290-2410

BECOME AN EXPERT in HVAC installation and repair. Pinnacle Career Institute Online HVAC education in as little as 12 months. Call us today: 1-877-651-3961 or go online: www.HVACOnline-Education.com ––––––––––––––––––––– HEAVY EQUIPMENT operator training. Bulldozers, backhoes, excavators. Three weeks handson program. Local job placement assistance.

National certifications.

GI Bill benefits eligible.

1-866-362-6497.

Help Wanted NOW HIRING. Truck driving school instructors.

JOIN CRST’s brand new training school in Cedar Rapids, Ia. Relocation assistance provided. Call 866-397-7407; email: sandersen@crst.com.

Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

www.reganjewelers.com

412 N. Main • Garden City • 620-275-5142 All Under One Roof

Revcom Electronics

TANKER DRIVERS. Up to $5,000 sign-on bonus!

Up to 51 cpm plus additional pay for HazMat loads, pump offs, mileage bonuses. One-year OTR. Call 877-882-6537. www. oakleytransport.com ––––––––––––––––––––– OTR DRIVERS needed for solo and team positions. Midwest and west coast traffic lanes, competitive pay.Assigned 2013 and 2014 Kenworths.

Safety/productivity incentives. Consistent miles.

Call 800-645-3748.

––––––––––––––––––––– MORE MONEY and hometime $$. Regional runs. Owner/operator and company drivers. Earn great benefits. Call Kevin at 877-325-4996, ext. 211.

Central Transportation Services, Inc. www.ctsco. com.

––––––––––––––––––––– EXPERIENCED FLATBED drivers. Regional opportunities now open with plenty of freight and great pay. 800-277-0212 or primeinc.com.

––––––––––––––––––––– PARTNERS IN EXCELLENCE. OTR drivers. APU equipped PrePass EZ-pass passenger policy. 2012 and newer equipment. 100% notouch. Butler Transport, 1-800-528-7825. www. butlertransport.com ––––––––––––––––––––– TRAINING. Class ACDL. Train and work for us. Professional and focused CDL training available. Choose between company driver, owner/ operator, lease operator or lease trainer. (877) 3697885. www.centraltruckdrivingjobs.com.

––––––––––––––––––––– TRANSFER DRIVERS. Need CDL A or B contract drivers, to relocate vehicles from local body plants to various locations throughout U.S. No forced dispatch. 1-800-501-3783 or www.mamotransportation.com under Careers.

Your RadioShack Dealer Two-way Radio Sales & Service Locally owned and operated since 1990

1104 Main • Scott City • 872-2625 Find us on Facebook

SharpsShootingSupply.com • (620)398-2395 • Healy, Kansas

Services

Dining

District 11 AA Meetings

Berning Auction

Scott City • Unity and Hope

“Don’t Trust Your Auction to Just Anyone”

Monday, Wednesday and Friday • 8:00 p.m.

807 Kingsley Last Saturday, Birthday Night, 6:30 p.m.

All open meetings, 874-8207 • 874-8118

For all your auction needs call:

(620) 375-4130

Russell Berning Box Q • Leoti

C-Mor-Butz BBQ

Barbecue, the only sport where a fat bald man is a GOD...

& Catering

Kyle Lausch 620-872-4209

Bryan Mulligan & Chris Price 620-874-8301 & 620-874-1285

www.cmorbutzbbq.com • cmorbutzbbq@gmail.com

A.A. • Al-Anon • Tuesday • 8:30 p.m.

United Methodist Church, 412 College 872-3137 • 872-3343

Dighton • Thursday • 8:30 p.m.

535 Wichita St. • All open meetings 397-5679 • 397-2647

The Scott County Record • Page 30 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Classifieds Buy, sell, trade, one call does it all 872-2090 ot fax 872-0009

Classified Ad Deadline: Monday at 5:00 p.m.

Agriculture

Classified advertising must be paid in advance unless business account is established.

WANTED TO BUY. Stored corn. Call for basis and contract information.

1-800-579-3645.

Lane County Feeders, Inc. 32tfc ––––––––––––––––––––– WANTED TO BUY. Wheat straw delivered.

Call for contracting information. Lane County Feeders. 397-5341. 44tfc

Classified Ad Rate: 20¢ per word. Minimum charge, $5.

Blind ad: $2.50 per week extra. Card of thanks: 10¢ per word. Minimum charge, $3. Classified Display Ad rate: $5.50 per column inch.

If not paid in advance, there will be a $1 billing charge.

Tear sheet for classified ad will be $1 extra.

Card of Thanks The family of Mildred Van Pelt wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude for the care, visits, prayers and support provided by friends, church and medical personnel during her final illness.

Special thanks are extended to the First United Methodist Church, Park Lane Nursing Home, Emergency Medical Technicians and to the doctors, nurses and nursing aides at Scott County Hospital. Your thoughtfulness, compassion, and professional expertise are greatly appreciated.

Pine Village Apartments 300 E. Nonnamaker

Apartments available for qualifying tenants 62+ or disabled with rental assistance available.

Hours: Tuesday, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. by appointment Call Steve 872-2535 or (620) 255-4824.

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ONE OF A KIND

Gorgeous custom-built home. Tons of features, storage galore, corner lot, SA garage. $115,000 with appliances and furniture or $112,000 without furniture.

BRING THE KIDS, DOGS AND HORSES! TAX SAVINGS, TAX SAVINGS!!!

Now is the time to build your new home while you can take advantage of the Tax Savings offered by the county with other county entities for five years. Build your new home on MAPLE STREET! 5 bedroom house, recently remodeled.

5 lots in Webster addition $35,000 for all 5 lots.

Thomas Real Estate

www.thomasreal-estate.com 914 W. 12th, Scott City, Ks. 67871 Office: (620)-872-7396 Clyde Thomas Cell: (620)-874-1753 Stephanie Shapland Cell: (620)-874-5002

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COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Commercial building for sale. Located at 1317 Main St., Scott City. Call 872-5387, 874-1033 or 620-521-4313.

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Help Wanted

PART-TIME COOK HIDE AND SEEK wanted. Apply in person STORAGE SYSTEMS. at The Broiler, 102 Main. Various sizes available.

25tfc Virgil and LeAnn Kuntz, ––––––––––––––––––––– (620)874-2120.

41tfc ATTENDANT CARE ––––––––––––––––––––– GIVER to provide parttime in home care for el- 1 AND 3 BEDROOM derly women. For more houses available and storinformation contact Caro- age units. Come fill out an lyn West 620-214-1238 or application at PlainJans or call 620-872-5777.

18tfc 25t2p 620-872-2506.

––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––– Cargill Cattle Feeders 1 AND 2 BEDROOM in Leoti, Ks., currently apartments for rent. Please has an open position for call 620-874-8353. 26tfc a clerk. We offer 401K, ––––––––––––––––––––– Health, Dental, Vision and FOR RENT IN SCOTT life insurance, plus paid CITY. Large modern sick leave and paid vaca- brick home. 3 bedrooms, tion. Bilingual is preferred 2 baths, 2 livingrooms but not required. Hours are $950. 620-397-3459. 26t1c Monday –Friday 8AM5PM. If interested call Services Linda at 620-375-3105 to receive an application WANTED: Yards to mow or pick one up at 8 miles and clean up, etc. Trim North of Leoti. Cargill smaller trees and bushes Cattle Feeders is an equal opportunity employer. 26t2c too. Call Dean Riedl, (620) 872-5112 or 87434tfc 4135.

––––––––––––––––––––– Business FURNITURE REPAIR INDIVIDUAL OFFICE and refinishing. Lawn SUITES from one to mower tune-up and blade four rooms available for sharpening. Call Vern lease. Leases starting at Soodsma, 872-2277 or $250/month including 36tfc 874-1412. utilities. Common areas available for use includ- ––––––––––––––––––––– ing reception and break MOWER REPAIR, tunerooms. Perfect for quiet up and blade sharpening. small business or cli- Call Rob Vsetecka at 62036tfc mate controlled storage. 214-1730.

Former location of Scott ––––––––––––––––––––– ROOFING, City Chiropractic, 1101 S. METAL Main. Call 214-3040 for SIDING and TRIMS at 27tfc direct-to-the-public pricinformation. es. Call Metal King Mfg., 620-872-5464. Our prices For Sale 37tfc will not be beat!

2004 HONDA CRV-LX awd. Well maintained 132,700 miles. Asking $6,500 call 620-214-3419.

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Four bedroom home with basement! Newer carpeting, steel roof, pressure tank and well!

Price Reduced!

Lawrence and Associates

Deb Lawrence, GRI Broker Shorty Lawrence, Sales Assoc.

513 Main • Scott City 872-5267 ofc. 872-7184 hm. lawrenceandassocrealty.com Sheila Ellis, Broker Assoc.

872-2056 Kerry Gough, Sales Assoc.

872-7337 Russell Berning, 874-4405 www.berningauction.com

Rentals

––––––––––––––––––––– DOWN SIZING. Queen adjustable bed with heat and vibrator, 2009 23.4 cu. ft. Frigidaire side-byside with water and ice in door, large LazyBoy couch with recliner on both ends (brown), assorted mirrors, sewing machine in cabinet, Roper washing machine, many misc. items. Call 620-87225t2p 3552.

The Scott County Record can work for you!

Real Estate RENOVATED 4 BEDROOM HOUSE for sale.

Brand new kitchen, new wood and tile floors, beautiful lighting throughout, french doors leading to a spacious backyard and patio, DA garage, main floor laundry, partial downstairs with half bath. Serious inquires call Dale Holterman, 620-8741100.

15tfc –––––––––––––––––––– FOR SALE BY OWNER 5 bedroom, finished basement, SA garage, 3000+ sq.ft. living space. 402 S. College, Scott City. Call for appointment, 620-2143103 or after 5:00 p.m.

620-874-1005.

11tfc ––––––––––––––––––––– 903 MYRTLE, GREAT FIRST HOME 2+2 bedrooms, 2 baths. Just remodeled with a new kitchen and stainless steel appliances. All new windows, doors, flooring, insulation, plumbing and roof. Close to elementary school, which is a plus.

Call for appointment: Clinton Constuction (Darryl or Virginia) 620-8725494 or cell 620-21424tfc 1456.

––––––––––––––––––––– HOUSE FOR SALE IN SCOTT CITY. Well built home on double corner lot.

3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Lots of built-in storage. Over 2,400 square feet, plus 3 season screened porch, double attached garage.

Established yard with underground sprinklers.

42eow 620-353-9933.

The Scott County Record • Page 31 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

Employment Opportunities SPECIAL EDUCATION PARA HIGH PLAINS EDUCATIONAL COOPERATIVE is seeking a special education ParaProfessional at Scott Community High School to work with students.

The position is available immediately.

For more information and application.

Contact: USD 466, Susan Carter for more details at (620) 872-7600. 22tfc

PARK LANE NURSING HOME Has openings for the following positions: Part-time CNA night shift Part-time CMA Part-time Nursing-LPN/RN Shift differential pay offered for evening and night shifts!

Please apply in person at:

Park Lane Nursing Home

√ Check us out at www.scottcountyrecord.com POOL MANAGER/LIFEGUARD Due to the absence of the pool’s long-time manager, The City of Scott City has extended the deadline for applications for pool manager, and assistant pool manager for the 2014 summer season.

The City of Scott City is also accepting applications for lifeguards.

Pick up applications at City Hall, 221 W. 5th St. Applications for manager and assistant will be accepted at City Hall until 5:00 p.m. Feb. 14, 2014.

Applications for lifeguards will be accepted at City Hall until 5:00 p.m. February 28, 2014 .

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210 E. Parklane Scott City, KS 67871 Or visit us at our website: www.parklanenursinghome.org “Quality Care Because We Care”

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BLENDER OPERATOR/ WAREHOUSE/TRUCK DRIVER

Crop Adjuster

Helena Chemical Company, a national agricultural-chemical company, has an immediate opening for a blender/warehouse operator at the Scott City location.

This is a full-time position; responsibilities include loading and unloading trucks, making deliveries and various other duties assigned by management.

Position requires high school diploma or equivalent, ability to obtain a CDL with HAZMAT endorsement, and the ability to operate a forklift.

We offer an excellent working environment and outstanding compensation and benefits package.

For consideration, please contact:

Incumbent will office out of their home in the territory and will possess 6+ months of agriculture-related experience or agriculture-related education.

Some physical requirements. Reliable means of transportation with the ability to travel. Will possess strong verbal communication skills and strong customer service and computer skills.

To apply, visit: www.wellsfargo.com/careers and search for requistion # 3836687.

Helena Chemical Rodney Wright 1711 S. Main, Scott City, 620-872-2156 Or Andy Smarsh Garden City, 620-275-2156 Pre-employment drug screen required.

EOE M/F/V/H

Rural Community Insurance Services (RCIS), a Wells Fargo company and a leader in the crop insurance industry, currently has a full-time Crop Adjuster position available to cover the territory of Scott City, Dighton and Ness City.

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Learn more about Rural Community Insurance Services at RCIS.com Wells Fargo is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportuity Employer, M/F/D/V. © 2014 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved.

Member FDIC. 26t1

SUBSCRIBE NOW!

Before the postal rates go soaring up again.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES Local: $40.74 In-State: $54.33 Out-of-State: $50.00

406 Main, Box 377 Scott City, Ks. 67871 www.scottcountyrecord.com 620-872-2090

The Scott County Record • Page 32 • Thursday, February 6, 2014

History reveals the impact of megadroughts Evidence that megadroughts destabilized North American civilizations between 850 and 1500 is found in the archaeological record. Although drought probably affected populations in the Great Plains during that time, clues there are sparse.

Archaeological evidence of agricultural societies in adjacent regions, however, provides signs of widespread drought conditions that most likely also afflicted the plains

people.

Several major droughts may have undermined Native American cultures between the 11th and 15th centuries. The population of the Fremont cultures in the Four Corners region of the U.S. Southwest declined around 1000 AD in the midst of a multi-decade drought.

The 13th-century drought, commonly referred to as the “Great Drought,” contributed to the abandonment of Anasazi agricultural settle-

Drought which will have the same duration as the Dust Bowl, which lasted for about six years.

But it could be much worse . . . much, much worse.

Megadrought History Modern history often looks to the Dust Bowl and the mid-1950s when making reference to major droughts in this region.

“Even the drought of 2012 deserves to be part of that conversation,” says Layzell.

In some ways, these are just blips on history’s radar when put into the context of megadroughts - weather phenomenon lasting 20 years or more.

Such was the case with the 110-year drought in northcentral Kansas from 1317 to 1427.

“That doesn’t mean 110 years of continuous drought. There were occasional years of rain, but the accumulative effect was a drought of that duration,” explains Layzell.

Since about 850 - the earliest period for which data has been analyzed - there have been numerous droughts which have overshadowed the 1930s and 1950s. The two worst droughts over the past

ments in the same region and also appears to have impaired Mississippian agricultural societies hundreds of miles to the northeast.

Further megadroughts in the 14th and 15th centuries likely contributed to the abandonment of Cahokia near present-day St. Louis by 1450.

Widespread drought during the Stephen Long expedition in 1819-1820 probably influenced the explorers’ perception of the western Great Plains

as the “Great American Desert.”

“The chief produce of these tracts of unmixed sand, is the sunflower, often the dense and almost exclusive occupant,” wrote expedition member Edwin James. Jacob Fowler noted that on his way to Santa Fe in 1821, the sand hills along the Arkansas River in southcentral Kansas were “distetute of vigetation as they are bald.”

Set-tan (Little Bear) of the Kiowa recorded in

his 60-year calendar history that during the hot “sitting summer” of 1855, the prairie grasses dried out and the Kiowa had to stop frequently to rest their emaciated horses.

Accounts from early settlers in eastern Kansas Territory also expounded on drought conditions that lasted from at least 1854 into the early 1860s, with only short reprieves.

Newspapers reported suffocating dust storms, crop failures, prairie fires, “scorching, withering,

blighting” winds, and the outward migrations of many newly arrived settlers.

By the mid-1890s, locals around Garden City observed that area sand hills were becoming less extensive.

Following brief reactivation of sand in small areas during the Dust Bowl years, dunes on the south side of the Arkansas River from just east of Pueblo, Colo., to near Wichita are now mostly stabilized by vegetation.

tic statements on one side of that issue or the other,” he says.

When one looks at the severity of droughts and climate factors over the past 1,000 years, Layzell acknowleges those “were naturally driven” during the pre-industrial revolution.

That’s why critics of climate change will look back several hundred years ago and make the claim that man couldn’t have had an impact on cli-

mate during the 1400s and 1700s when there were periods of severe drought in Southwest Kansas.

So can man automatically be assumed to be at fault today?

“That’s a valid question,” says Layzell. “But when you look at the science, data is data and there’s this data that shows what’s happened in the past. At the same time, you can’t argue with graphs that show what’s happening with CO2 lev-

els today.

“There’s no doubt that we’ve affected the climate. The big question is how have we altered it?

The hard part is drawing those links and saying that we have caused the most recent drought. I’m not ready to make that conclusion.

“Separating what’s naturally-occurring from what’s been influenced by man is a major challenge for climate scientists,” Layzell adds.

(continued from page one)

1,150 years occurred in about 1470 and 1870.

“There’s a reason that pioneers traveling through this part of the country during the 1800s referred to it as the Great American Desert,” Layzell says.

However, there are 11 other drought periods that were worse than 1956 and nearly a dozen others that were on par with the Dust Bowl.

In terms of measuring the severity of a drought (the Palmer Drought Severity Index), the 1950s were worse than the Dust Bowl in terms of extreme lack of rainfall and duration. However, there were other factors such as huge dust storms which were part of the Dust Bowl and drew more attention to that drought.

Tree ring data also reveals droughts of greater duration than the 1950s during the early 1700s and again in the early and mid1800s. However, the most severe periods of extreme drought in Southwest Kansas occurred prior to 1500.

A shift to droughts of shorter duration seemingly coincides with a period known as the Little Ice Age which began around 1500.

Climate change?

From a statistical standpoint, Layzell says Western Kansas could still experience two more droughts in the next 40 to 50 years that could rival that of the mid-1950s “provided we’re in a business as usual scenario.”

For planning purposes and when making policy decisions, the Kansas Water Office uses the 1950s drought as its benchmark because it is the worst in recorded history.

“Maybe we need to be looking at the past 1,000 years instead of the past 100 years. Based on probability, perhaps it would be best if we planned for the worst,” Layzell suggests.

And could there be a return of extreme weather that this region experienced several hundred years ago?

One can’t have that debate without also factoring in the prospect of climate change. While rising CO2 levels in the atmosphere is indisputable, Layzell says that linking man with changes in the climate gets more complicated.

“The climate system is far too complex for anyone to be making simplis-

Six women politicians join forces against Brownback Critical of Brownback on Medicaid, taxes, school funding KHI News Service

Six of the state’s more prominent women politicians - three Democrats and three Republicans - have come together in an attempt to unseat Gov. Sam Brownback.

Medicaid expansion is one of the issues they say the governor is wrong about.

The six have started a coalition they are calling “Reroute the Roadmap,” an allusion to Brownback’s “Roadmap

for Kansas” campaign theme.

Rochelle Chronister, a former legislator and one-time chair of the Kansas Republican Party, said Brownback’s refusal to move forward with Medicaid expansion will deal a financial blow to Kansas hospitals, especially smaller, rural ones, because it will force them to absorb reductions in Medicare reimbursements without the promised offsetting increases in Medicaid revenue that was part of the initial bargain when Congress passed the Affordable Care Act. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2012 that

Medicaid expansion was an option for states to decide not the federal government and Kansas has been among the states to choose against it.

“So, they’re now caught,” Chronister said of the hospitals. “It’s going to come as a real shock, especially to a lot of small, rural hospitals.”

Chronister said the financial squeeze forced the Catholic hospital system that runs hospitals in Independence and Ft. Scott to recently lay off 29 people.

“That’s probably a direct result of preparing for the cuts that are going to take place in Medicare,” she said.

Other Republican founders of the coalition are Kansas Insurance Commissioner Sandy Praeger of Lawrence and former U.S. Sen. Sheila Frahm of Colby.

Frahm was appointed to replace Bob Dole in the Senate but was defeated

by Brownback in the subsequent election. Praeger is from the GOP’s moderate wing and has had differences with the governor over implementation of the Affordable Care Act, which he has staunchly opposed.

The three Democrats involved are: Joan Wagnon, a former revenue secretary and head of the Kansas Democratic Party; Jill

Docking, who also once ran against Brownback when he was in the U.S. Senate and now is running mate to State Rep. Paul Davis of Lawrence who is expected to be Brownback’s Democratic challenger in the November election; and State Sen. Laura Kelly, a prominent legislator from Topeka.

Chronister said the six came together before Docking decided to join Davis on the ticket against Brownback. She said the women joined forces because they thought it was important to elect “anyone but Brownback,” in the coming election.

They also fault the gov-

ernor for his policies on taxes and school funding.

The women launched a website seeking volunteers and donations.

Wagnon said more than 1,300 people signed up in a matter of hours.

The newly forming coalition isn’t at the forefront of the Medicaid expansion issue.

The Kansas Hospital Association and more than 50 other groups have been pushing for months to get the issue before legislators this session. Republican leaders in the House and Senate have said there is little or no likelihood it will be approved or seriously considered unless the governor offers a proposal to do so.