Youngsters and adults enjoyed OK Kids Day at Lake Scott State Park
40 Pages • Four Sections
Volume 22 • Number 45
Thursday, June 18, 2015
Published in Scott City, Ks.
$1 single copy
Hospital management under fire Claiming there is a leadership crisis that has contributed to high staff turnover at the Scott County Hospital, one former employee and another who has submitted her resignation were among those airing grievances with the Scott County Commission on Tuesday afternoon. Nearly 40 people filled the courtroom in the county courthouse to air their views - pro and con - regarding hospital operations. Nearly half of those in attendance were hospital employees.
Former employees, community speak out An interview with Scott County Hospital CEO Mark Burnett on page nine
Leading much of the discussion was former employee Karyn Hendrix who, along with Karma Huck, are two of the most recent employees no longer working at SCH. Huck reportedly chose to submit her resignation. Hendrix chose not to accept a settlement offer from SCH that wouldn’t
have allowed her to air her grievances about the hospital or its management. “I’m here because I care about the people at the hospital and I want to make sure that we’re providing the best health care possible,” said Hendrix, a 10-year employee who was involved in health and safety for patients and staff. She says the large turnover in employees is due to a “culture
of fear” under hospital CEO Mark Burnett. “My concerns are centered around the quality of our leadership,” Hendrix told commissioners. “Before my termination, I’d say a dozen or more (employees) had told me they would like to say something, but they fear for their jobs. Those fears were proven valid with the termination of myself and Karma Huck.”
Department Cooperation Hendrix and Diana Dible, a cardiac rehabilitation nurse who submitted her resignation to take effect later this month, shared concerns about the perceived lack of cooperation between nurses in the outpatient clinic and the emergency room. Hendrix said there is a conflict between the nurses in the hospital/emergency room wing and those who are in the outpatient (clinic) wing of the facility. The ER/SCH nurses (See HOSPITAL on page 10)
RFL Sat. in Scott City
building materials
Five-year-old Keller Turner didn’t come away from his venture into the swimming area at Lake Scott empty-handed. The Scott City youngster shows off a feather that he was able to use during the sand castle building contest held at the beach area on Saturday afternoon. More contest photos are on page 28. (Record Photo)
The location will change, but the cause remains the same as organizers prepare for the annual Relay for Life to be held Sat., June 20, at Scott City’s Patton Park. The day’s events will begin at 5:00 p.m. with survivor registration and dinner, followed by the opening ceremonies at 6:00 p.m. Event chairman Karen Wright feels the new location will rekindle enthusiasm for the RFL. “There was a feeling that the football field was too large and it didn’t allow for teams to be connected,” says Wright. “We’re going to be in a smaller location which I think will create a great atmosphere.” In addition, with the park located on US83 Highway will increase awareness of the event and, hopefully, draw in people who are passing by, says Wright. There will be a number of performances throughout the evening, live music and games for the teams. The luminaria ceremony will be held at 9:30 p.m. Another change with this year’s RFL is that it won’t continue throughout the night, wrapping up at dawn as it has in the past. Instead, this year’s closing ceremony will be held at 11:45 p.m. “We’ve had people ask us to have it longer,” says Jamie Parkinson, a regional coordinator for RFL. “It was tempting, but we decided we’d see how it goes. We can always go longer next year if we feel that’s what people want to do.”
School district to initiate SCORE deposit fee
With nearly $2,500 in unpaid fees, Scott City Elementary School will be making some changes in its SCORE afterschool program during the 2015-16 school year. The program began in 2008 as an inexpensive alternative for working parents to keep their children in a safe and a learning environment following school. However, delinquencies are mounting and that could jeopardize the program in the
future. During the past year, 46 students moved out of the district leaving behind an unpaid balance of $1,398, according to SCES Principal Shawn Roberts. Those who are still living in the district, but are no longer able to put their children into the program because they are 40-45 days delinquent, owe another $1,013. In order to reduce losses, Roberts will require parents to
406 Main, St. Scott City • 620-872-2090 www.scottcountyrecord.com
NASA space shuttle astronaut at SFEC aviation day Page 29
pay a deposit that will be on a sliding scale. For each child who qualifies for a free lunch, the deposit will be $20; for those who qualify for reduced lunches, $40; and for those paying full price, the deposit will be $80. That reflects the daily fees assessed to students in each of those groups which are $1, $2 and $4. “A couple of years ago we tried cutting off participation for those families who were
45 days past due, but we were lenient with those who were working with us and trying to keep their fees paid,” said Roberts. “It’s reached the point where we have to draw the line.” Too often, she says, once a family is a month or more behind on fees they pull their child out of the program and they don’t return. “We’ve had situations where a family has one or two students
in the program. They will attend for 30 days and the bill catches up with them,” she says. Over the last couple of years, the number of delinquent fees has increased. Daily Penalty Roberts and her staff will also be getting more strict about the 5:20 pick-up time. She will propose to the board at its next meeting that parents be assessed
406 Main, St. Scott City • 620-872-2090 www.scottcountyrecord.com Opinion • Pages 4-6 Calendar • Page 7 Youth/education • Page 11 LEC report • Page 12 Health care • Pages 14-15 Deaths • Pages 16-17
Church services • Page 17 Sports • Pages 21-28 Farm section • Pages 30-37 Classified ads • Pages 38-39 Lawn/Garden • Page 40
Scott City Stars have a big day at Leoti swim meet Page 21
(See SCORE on page two)
The Scott County Record • Page 2 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Cities, counties try to decipher new tax lid Cities and counties are only just beginning to sort through the fallout from a massive revenue package passed by the Kansas Legislature Friday that will place new limits on property tax increases. Local governments will be required under the bill to hold elections if property tax increases exceed the rate of inflation - a
measure designed to provide a public check on increases. But groups representing local governments are warning the mandate will be nearly impossible to implement. The deal lawmakers brokered to get the package - expected to generate more than $300 million next year to help balance the state budget - contains nu-
SCORE $1 for each minute they are late in picking up their child. “This has started to become a major problem,” Roberts shared with the board of education at Monday’s meeting. “If someone’s running a few minutes later, we’d like them to call us. But we’ve had parents show up as late as 6:00. One night it was 7:00,” Roberts says. “We started calling around to make sure nothing had happened to (the parents). Plus, we’re paying for staff to be there.
merous tweaks and add-ons to current law. The property tax lid was among the most significant provisions added in the final days. Under the new requirement that will go into effect in 2018, local governments will be prohibited from spending funds from property tax revenue generated in excess of the rate of in-
flation. Cities and counties will have to receive voter approval in order to spend the additional dollars. Lawmakers carved out several exemptions, though. If the revenue goes toward new infrastructure, bond payments or legal judgments, no election would be required. Local governments will face
a steep uphill climb in complying from a logistical perspective. Cities and counties receive their property valuations which show how much revenue they will receive - mid-summer and must have budgets crafted by the end of August. The timing makes placing a (See TAX PLAN on page 10)
(continued from page one)
“Every parent is going to have that day when something happens and they’re a few minutes late, but when it happens day after day we have to do something to discourage it.” Paying Its Way When the program began in 2008, Roberts had successfully applied for a five-year grant which covered the cost of wages for the staff plus provided money for a wider range of sports and other activities.
When the grant ended, the district opted to continue the SCORE program, but scaled it back to reduce costs. Participation has remained very good with between 70-90 youngsters each school day. “Actually, our enrollment is up, so that shows we’re providing a good service,” Roberts says. “We’ve had to cut our staff the last couple of years because of reduced funding, but it’s still manageable. We are able to provide stations where stu-
dents can do their homework and also play games inside or out, depending on the weather.” Roberts doesn’t want to lose the program because she’s seen how beneficial it is to students and parents. “This provides a safe place for kids. They can get their homework done and they get a snack,” she says. “I don’t think asking for a deposit is unreasonable. It protects the parents and the school.” Roberts says her plan is to collect the deposit at the time of enrollment.
What’s for Lunch in Scott City? Sun. - Sat., June 21-27
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 -10:00 p.m.
Tues. • Open faced prime rib sandwich with french fries. Wed. • French dip sandwich with chips. Thurs. • Fried chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy. Fri. • Chicken enchilada dinner.
Tate’s Restaurant
405 Main Call for take out - 909-5002
1211 Main • 872-3215
5Buck Lunch 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
• Chili Cheese Dog • Bacon Cheeseburger • 3 Piece Chicken Strips
Includes Fries, 21 oz. Drink and Small Sundae
1304 S. Main • 872-5301
6
$
49
Buffet
11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Tuesday - Thursday 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Friday-Saturday 11:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Sunday 11:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Pioneer Reuben (includes side) Shaved roasted pork on rye with sweet sour kraut and honey mustard.
$850
with salad bar
$10
The Scott County Record
Community Living
Page 3 - Thursday, June 18, 2015
Snack healthy during the summer
Mr. and Mrs. Bronson Baber
Scheuerman-Baber exchange wedding vows on March 21
Andrea Scheuerman and Bronson Baber were united in marriage on March 21, 2015, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Scott City. Parents of the couple are Randy and Cindy Scheuerman, Scott City, and Brock and Chris Baber, Tribune. Maid of honor was Alyssa Scheuerman, sister of the bride, Scott City. Bridesmaids were Tecie Turner, friend of the bride, Rapid City, S.D.; and Lindsey DiNicola, friend of the bride, Seattle, Wash. Best man was Grant Bergner, friend of the groom, Kansas City. Groomsmen were Drew Zerr, friend of the groom, Tribune; and Matthew Barnhart, friend of the groom, Mount Sterling, Ky. Flower girl was Jocelyn Miller, family friend of the bride, Scott City.
Ring bearer was Slade Stewart, nephew of the groom, Overland Park. Ushers were Seth Scheuerman, brother of the bride; Travis See, friend of the bride; Braden Higdon, cousin of the groom; and Joe Whatley, friend of groom. Greeters were Liz Sweers and Crystal Stegman, friends of the bride. Musicians were pianist, Marian Nolan, family friend of the bride, and violinist, Lydia Penningroth, cousin of the bride. Vocalists were John Curry and Katie Schemm, friends of the couple, The bride graduated from Logan College of Chiropractic in December 2014 and the groom was a December 2013 graduate. Both are chiropractic physicians at Western Kansas Chiropractic, LLC, Scott City. The couple has made their home in Scott City.
Snacks provide energy between meals, and that’s why a Kansas State University nutrition specialist suggests planning snacks to include healthpromoting fruits and vegetables that will complement, rather than compete, with meals. Why the emphasis on fruits and vegetables? “People of all ages fall short of meeting the five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables recommended for optimum health,” said Sandy Procter, K-State Extension nutrition specialist. Procter likes to keep cut fruits (melon chunks) and vegetables (carrot, celery and pepper strips) in a container in the refrigerator to make them easy to eat, and provide an easy way for family members to add servings of fruits and vegetables a day. “Give fruits and vegetables equal opportuni-
Market is Sat.
After a long absence, the farmers’ market is returning to Scott City. The market will be held each Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to noon, on the south (voag) parking lot at Scott Community High School.
Need volunteers for the reunion
The All-School Reunion Committee is seeking volunteers for events to be held from July 3-5. Anyone who is not an alumni, but would like to be a part of the festivities, is asked to contact Kate Macy (872-3788) or Sara Goodman (872-3571).
ties,” said Procter, who noted that fresh berries, peaches, pears and plums are at their peak during the summer, in addition to being sweet and appealing. Fruit can usually stand alone, but pairing it with low-fat milk as a smoothie or topping for yogurt is an easy way to make a health-promoting snack that will likely be a hit. While frozen grapes can be a hit with teens and adults because they’re “cool.” Be advised they can be a choking hazard for young children. Making vegetables appealing need not be a chore, said Procter, who typically keeps a variety of vegetables ready to eat so that she can assemble a veggie tray (with optional low-fat dip) for the family to snack on prior to the evening meal. Be willing to try new, or less familiar, fresh
fruits and vegetables in their peak availability, said Procter. Summer markets are a lot like opening a new box of crayons. It’s hard to know which color to choose first, she said. While the rich colors may attract buyers, Proctor points out that the pigments responsible for producing the color are important to promoting health. By eating a variety of colorful foods, consumers can benefit from several vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. For example, fruits and vegetables containing vitamins C and E as well as beta carotene, possess antioxidant properties that reduce inflammation, prevent cells from aging, and reduce risks from chronic disease and some cancers. Fruits and vegetables also are high in fiber which, in addition to
cleansing the body, promotes a full - or satisfied - feeling that helps to manage the appetite and weight, Procter said. Fruits and vegetables also have a high water content to help keep the body hydrated and provide a refreshing, cooling effect. Summer-fresh fruits and vegetables are abundant and also lower in price during peak growing season. Many fruits (apples and bananas) and vegetables (carrot or celery sticks) can qualify as ready snacks. These foods make healthful, filling choices that parents can offer when hunger strikes. “Typically, as adults, we need to offer vegetables and fruits more often, and remember to eat them ourselves,” Procter said. Procter also reminded parents that the younger generation models adult behaviors.
The Scott County Record
Editorial/Opinion
Page 4 - Thursday, June 18, 2015
editorially speaking
Spare the rich:
Low-, middle-income burdened with tax hikes
The longest legislative session in Kansas history is complete - a testament to the legislature’s inability to recognize their mistakes of the past and an unwillingness to arrive at a tax structure that is both fair and sustainable. It’s incomprehensible to imagine that even when staring at an estimated deficit of $400 million we still have legislators who don’t see the massive tax cuts they passed in 2012 as a major cause of the problem. The failure of that tax cut to boost state revenue, as promised, has been well-documented. Cuts to education, infrastructure and programs that aid the needy speak to the misplaced priorities of Brownback and conservatives. Equally disturbing, however, has been the legislature’s so-called solution in which the tax cut plan that got us into this mess remains unchanged, except that future tax cuts have been delayed. The burden for bailing the state out of this mess falls upon low- and middle-income taxpayers who have already been bearing the brunt of poor policy making. For example: •The new state sales tax is scheduled to begin July 1, but businesses have another 30 days before they are required to implement the change. That could result in state revenue falling short of expectations by $13 million. But it gets even better. •The legislation includes some tax increases on certain businesses amounting to $24 million, but a little research has shown that this tax hit could be easily avoided by restructuring LLC business status. One accountant verified this assessment, saying many businesses can completely avoid this tax for a small fee and about one hour of work. In other words, the legislature appears to have built a budget with $24 million in revenue they very likely won’t get. Kansans who don’t have the benefit of savvy accountants in our everyday lives can prepare for the following: •The statewide sales tax will climb from 6.15% to 6.5%. •The food sales tax in Kansas, as of July 1, will be 6.5%. The only state with a higher sales tax on food will be Mississippi. Any time you are in the same conversation as Mississippi that is not a good thing. •A 50 cent per pack increase in the cigarette tax will hit low-income Kansans hardest. •Reducing the itemized deductions on property taxes and mortgage interest from 100% to 50%. And Gov. Brownback must still come up with another $50 million in cuts to balance the budget. To characterize this legislative session as anything but a disaster is delusional and an insult to Kansans who must pick up the tab for what passes as governance in Kansas these days.
Finger-pointing:
Brownback blames Dems for lengthy budget fiasco
In case you were wondering why it took 113 days for the Kansas Legislature to hammer out a budget and finally put the wraps on the longest session in state history well, wonder no longer. Gov. Sam Brownback knew exactly where to place the blame . . . with Democrats because they refused to go along with his tax hike proposals. Not surprisingly, Brownback conveniently overlooked some facts. First of all, it must be remembered that the budget crisis was the result of policy decisions by Brownback and conservative lawmakers. There’s nothing wrong with Democrats and moderate Republicans standing back and saying, “You broke it; you fix it.” At the same time, Democrats and moderate Republicans were willing to get behind a plan that included repealing the 2012 income tax cuts which were responsible for erasing a nearly $800 million budget surplus and forcing lawmakers to come up with $400 million in tax hikes/spending cuts for next year’s budget. Gov. Brownback, however, chose to be unyielding on the tax cuts. Besides, if Democrats were to come up with solutions that involved higher taxes, it would only come back to haunt them. Democrats could either go along with the $400 million tax hike plan that was adopted by conservative lawmakers - and pay a price in the next election - or they could let Brownback and conservatives enact the largest tax hike in Kansas history and be criticized by the governor for not being willing participants. Of course, there was a third option. They could have passed the tax hike and then not called it a tax hike. But who would try to get away with something that stupid?
Lawmakers creating own reality
For years, we’ve struggled with why our Kansas Legislature has so much disdain for public education. Conservative legislators have fought the courts every step of the way in an effort to keep from putting more tax dollars into public schools; putting in the minimum when so ordered; and then finding any pretext possible for cutting dollars whenever funding is tight - which is just about every legislative session. Is a good education not the foundation of a progressive society? Doesn’t a good education make it possible for more people to lead productive lives and contribute to a higher standard of living? Or are people with a good education seen as a threat? According to one study of state legislatures across the country, Kansas has the third least educated (16 percent have no college experience at all), following Arkansas and Montana. That’s not to say a college education should be a prerequisite for serv-
ing in the legislature. Common sense can go a long way . . . but when you are lacking both, that’s a serious problem. Welcome to Kansas. In the final days of the recently completed state legislative session, Rep. Scott Schwab (R-Olathe) apologized to the chamber for being arrogant in the past and made reference to the 2012 income tax cuts which are largely blamed for the huge budget deficit. “I’ll admit it, it was my fault,” Schwab said. “I was part of the problem. But I want to be part of the solution.” Recognizing that you are part of the problem is modest progress, even if it does come two years after you’ve gone on a drinking binge that has resulted in the loss of your job, your wife and your dog - not necessarily in that order of importance. But the
recovery process is going to take much more than standing in front of fellow legislators and saying, “My name is Scott and I have a non-taxing problem” while the biggest share of those you’re talking to still have a bottle or two sitting on their desk. The problem is further compounded by legislators who feel they have so effectively destroyed the capacity of people to clearly think that they can say practically anything they want and no one will be smart enough to know exactly what it is that they’re saying. One of the gems to come out of this past session was uttered by House Taxation Committee Chairman Marvin Kleeb (R-Overland Park) who bragged that school funding won’t have to be cut any further because of the legislature’s decision to find additional revenue. But, please keep in mind that neither Kleeb or fellow legislators actually raised taxes. Boosting the sales tax from 6.15 to 6.5 percent - generating an estimated $432 million
- and raising the tax on cigarettes by 50 cents per pack are not tax increases. Offering a unique moment of clarity that’s possible only in the mind of a Tea Party conservative, Kleeb explains, “We are not raising taxes; we are raising revenue to support education.” Drinking from the same Kool-Aid bowl, our own Gov. Sam Brownback added, “Some would have you believe this bill represents a tax increase and that is not accurate.” In other words, trust us, not your pocketbook. Or how about Sen. Julia Lynn (R-Olathe) who offered this explanation on the legislature’s tax package: “I view this as tax reform, not a tax hike.” City and county governments, are you paying attention? The legislature has said that you can’t increase your local mill levy (you know, raise taxes) beyond the rate of inflation. Well, you can apparently get around this little problem by declaring that an increase in the mill levy (See REALITY on page six)
The $400M hike that’s not a tax hike
Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback must take the people of his state for fools. How else to explain his glib behavior at a news conference this week, when he inked his signature on a bill that calls for the largest tax increase in the state’s history and said it wasn’t a tax increase at all? “Some would have you believe this bill represents a tax increase and that is not accurate,” Brownback said. “When looked at in totality, from 2012 to 2015, as I said at the outset, Kansans are paying less in taxes and continuing to move off income taxes to consumption-based taxes.” In other words, if you combine the reckless 2012 income tax cuts for the wealthy with the new tax hikes that the legislature
Where to Write
another view by Barbara Shelly
passed to save the state from fiscal insolvency, the state overall is taking in fewer tax dollars. Fabulous! Kansas is still broke even though close to 50 percent of its residents are giving it more of their pocket money. Local governments are raising property taxes. College tuition and school fees are headed north. Public services are going south. But according to King Sam, everyone should be happy because he, the wise and powerful, is collecting less overall tax revenue than before. Hello, Gov. Brownback, reality is calling: •When you sign a bill raising almost $400 million in new revenues through a combination of
Gov. Sam Brownback 2nd Floor - State Capitol Topeka, Ks. 66612-1501 (785) 296-3232
higher taxes, that is a tax increase. •When a low-income family pays more in sales taxes to buy groceries and necessities so that the state can keep the lights on, that is a tax increase. •When you cut a tax deduction used by thousands of ordinary Kansans in half, that is a tax increase. •If the top one percent of income earners ends up paying $25,000 less in taxes but the bottom 20 percent has to pay almost $200 more in taxes, you have most certainly raised taxes on the lower 20 percent. •If you have to raise taxes and slash education and services to pay for your earlier tax cut plan, that plan is not working. But Brownback has never been one to let reality intrude on his happy landscape. The sun is always shining in the King-
Sen. Pat Roberts 109 Hart Senate Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-4774 roberts.senate.gov/email.htm
dom of Sam, even if everybody knows it isn’t. Other gems from Brownback’s news conference: •His assertion that “our policy is saving Kansans money and putting money in their pocket rather than the government’s pocket.” Unless you shop in Kansas, of course. Then you’ll pay more out of pocket. •His preposterous contention that the extended legislative session wouldn’t have been such a train wreck if the Democrats had just come prepared. “The minority party put forward no proposals to solve this issue. None,” he said. With less than onefourth of the seats in the Legislature, Democrats usually are consigned to the role of principled opposition. But, actually, they did have a proposal, (See HIKE on page six)
Sen. Jerry Moran 141 Hart Senate Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-6521 www.house.gov/moranks01/
The public has had enough with trade deals by Robert Reich
How can it be that the largest pending trade deal in history - a deal backed both by a Democratic president and Republican leaders in Congress - is nearly dead? The Trans-Pacific Partnership may yet squeak through Congress but its near-death experience offers an important lesson. It’s not that labor unions have regained political power (union membership continues to dwindle and large corporations have more clout in Washington than ever) or that the President is especially weak (no president can pull off a major deal like this if the public isn’t behind him). The biggest lesson is most Americans no longer support free trade. It used to be an article of faith that trade was good for America. Economic theory told us so: Trade allows nations to specialize in what they do best, thereby fueling growth. And growth, we were told, is good for everyone. But such arguments are less persuasive in this era of staggering inequality. For decades almost all the gains from growth have been going to a small sliver of Americans at the top - while most peoples’ wages have stagnated, adjusted for inflation. Economists point to overall benefits from expanded trade. All of us gain access to cheaper goods and services. But in recent years the biggest gains from trade have gone to investors and executives, while the burdens have fallen disproportionately on those in the middle and below who have lost good-paying jobs. So even though everyone gains from trade, the biggest winners are at the top. And as the top keeps moving higher compared to most of the rest of us, the vast majority feels relatively worse off. To illustrate the point, consider a simple game I conduct with my students. I have them split up into pairs and ask them to imagine I’m giving $1,000 to one member of each pair. I tell them the recipients can keep some of the money only on condition they reach a deal with their partner on how it’s to be divided up. They have to offer their partner a portion of the $1,000, and their partner must either accept or decline. If the partner declines, neither of them gets a penny. You might think many recipients of the imaginary $1,000 would offer their partner one dollar, which the partner would gladly accept. After all, a dollar is better than nothing. Everyone is better off. But that’s not what happens. Most partners decline any offer under $250 - even though that means neither of them gets anything. This game, and variations of it, have been played by social scientists thousands of times with different groups and pairings, and with remarkably similar results. A far bigger version of the game is being played on the national stage as a relative handful of Americans receive everlarger slices of the total national income while most Americans, working harder than ever, receive smaller ones. And just as in the simulations, those receiving the smaller slices are starting to say “no deal.” Some might attribute this response to envy or spite. But when I ask my students why they refused to accept anything less than $250 and thereby risked (See TRADE on page six)
facts are winning
The Scott County Record • Page 5 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Cracks appear in climate change deniers’ defenses by Katrina vanden Heuvel
In April 2009, as the political right was finding its voice in the tea party, South Carolina Republican Rep. Bob Inglis was making the case for a carbon tax. “I’m a conservative. I believe in accountability,” he said. “Global warming is not a matter of belief. It’s a matter of facts.” He added, “We don’t want to be a party of deniers.” Most of his party disagreed. A year later, Inglis was trounced in a Republican primary, his staunchly conservative record proving insufficient to overcome this heretical deviation. On the surface, it may appear that little has changed in the intervening years. But cracks are appearing in the climate change deniers’ defenses. Today, the movement to seriously address global warming is gaining unlikely supporters, a potential preview of the tectonic shift to come. Last month, six major oil and gas companies based in Europe, including BP and Royal Dutch Shell, wrote a letter officially endorsing an international price on carbon. “Climate change is a critical challenge for our world,” they declared. “The challenge is how to meet greater energy demand with less (carbon dioxide). We stand ready to play our part.” In the short term, these companies stand to benefit from carbon pricing, which would shift demand away from coal. But even if their position is partially self-serving, it’s an important declaration, and one that deeply undercuts the climate change deniers’ arguments. Even oil companies, we can now say, believe climate change is real - and admit it’s something they are causing.
While Exxon Mobil did not sign the letter, its stance has also evolved. For years, the company poured millions of dollars into organizations promoting climate change denial. However, in a report to shareholders last year, an Exxon Mobil vice president said , “The risk of climate change is clear and the risk warrants action.” To that end, Exxon Mobil has expressed support for a carbon tax. In fact, Exxon Mobil has already responded to the likelihood of international climate action by applying “shadow” carbon prices to its international operations, based on the likelihood that a given country will restrict emissions. As The Nation’s environmental correspondent Mark Hertsgaard pointed out, the company actually revised its U.S. carbon price in the wake of last fall’s “People’s Climate March” in New York. “We look at all kinds of things that affect government policies, and that many people marching is clearly going to put pressure on government to do something,” a spokesman said. The pressure, it appears, will come from more than marchers, too. Earlier this month, North Carolina businessman
Jay Faison, a major Republican donor, announced that he would spend $175 million to encourage his party to embrace climate change as a crisis in need of action. His new organization, ClearPath, endorses a carbon tax that would use the revenues to reduce other taxes. Likewise, Jerry Taylor, president of the libertarian Niskanen Center and a former skeptic of climate change, released a paper in March titled “The Conservative Case for a Carbon Tax.” These developments are a reflection of broader shifts in public opinion, as evidenced by multiple polls finding that climate change denial is increasingly unpopular outside of Washington. For instance, a Yale University survey conducted by Gallup found that 71 percent of Americans say global warming is real; 69 percent believe that human activity is contributing to the problem; and 62 percent agree that “global warming is an urgent threat requiring immediate and drastic action.” Moreover, while Republicans are split on the question of climate change, a YaleGeorge Mason University poll found that (See CLIMATE on page six)
Top execs are destroying Postal Service by Jim Hightower
When a big-name retailer finds its sales in a slow downward spiral, the geniuses in the executive suite often try to keep their profits up by cheapening their product and delivering less to customers. To see how well this strategy works, look no further than the declining sales at Walmart and McDonald’s. When the geniuses in charge of these behemoths applied the cut-back strategy, their slow decline turned into a perilous nose-dive. You’d think their experience would keep other executives (See USPS on page six)
States have no Plan B for health care If ACA struck down, millions of people will be left in limbo
Any day now, the Supreme Court will announce its decision in King v. Burwell, the latest high-stakes fight over the Affordable Care Act. If the government loses, more than 6 million residents of the 34 states that declined to establish their own health-care exchanges could lose subsidies that help them purchase insurance. In principle, those 34 states could restore subsidies by creating their own insurance exchanges. Political leaders will certainly come under intense pressure to do so, although time is short to get an exchange up and running for 2016. Given the potential need for swift action, do the states have contingency plans in place? Could they move quickly in the wake of an adverse decision? To investigate these questions, we undertook a study of five states that could lose tax credits: Florida, Michigan, New Hampshire, North Carolina and Utah. What we found was both striking and worrisome. Dozens of interviews con-
behind the headlines by David Jones/Nicholas Bagley
ducted by our research team with political leaders, agency officials and advocacy organizations in those states indicate that the states are almost completely underprepared for the Supreme Court’s decision in King. As North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory (R) said in March, “There’s no B plan.” The difficult politics surrounding health care reform make it hard for either Democrats or Republicans to engage in serious planning. Democrats don’t want to get ahead of the Obama administration or signal to the Supreme Court that a ruling will not have major consequences. Republicans, who control at least one house in the legislature in all but three of the 34 states that use the federal exchange, told us that while they fear being blamed if people lose insurance, they also worry about the political repercussions of supporting any element of Obamacare, including the creation of a state exchange. The safest approach is to sit tight.
Pennsylvania and Delaware are the only states whose leaders have indicated they will create a state exchange if the government loses in King. An exchange bill is currently before the Maine Senate after having passed the House. Of the states we examined, New Hampshire is best positioned to move quickly after the ruling comes down in King. Some policymakers there hope to pass a law - nicknamed the “magic wand” - that simply declares the federal HealthCare.gov website to be a statebased exchange within New Hampshire’s borders. In each of the five states, political resistance to new exchanges is expected to be fierce. The speaker pro tempore in the Florida House of Representatives, for example, told us that “Florida has no desire to create a state-based exchange,” even if the government loses in King. Republicans’ recent rejection of Medicaid expansion suggests that they aren’t bluffing. Legislators in Michigan believe that any discussion of a state exchange could spur a resurgence of the tea party, whose opposition doomed Republican Gov. (See STATES on page six)
The Scott County Record • Page 6 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Budget is a failure for the future of Kansas Patrick Lowry
The Arthur Lafferinspired, trickle-down plan to stimulate the Kansas economy via income tax cuts has failed. The so-called glide path to zero state income taxes was demanded by Gov. Sam Brownback and passed by the Legislature in 2012 and 2013 - and created a revenue gap exceeding $800 million for the budget year beginning in three weeks. Even though only moderate Republicans
and Democrats admit the fiscal experiment failed, and the governor remains steadfast in exempting 330,000 Kansas businesses and pass-through entities from having to pay their share, there is only one reason lawmakers are raising new revenues to erase the deficit: The original plan did not work. There simply is not enough money to pay for the rather modest expense load carried by the state. The basic services the state provides such as education, human
Climate Reality
services, public safety, transportation, agriculture and natural resources, and administration totals $6.5 billion for the State General Fund in FY 2016. Up until early Friday morning, only $5.7 billion had been calculated for revenue. The imbalance was caused by the massive income tax cuts. At the urging of the Kansas Chamber of Commerce, Kansas Policy Institute, Americans for Prosperity, Americans for Tax Reform, American
Legislative Exchange Council and Koch Industries, Brownback convinced legislators and voters alike those cuts would stimulate the economy. It didn’t turn out that way. State revenue fell more than $700 million in one year. The state lags both the region and nation on virtually every key barometer, and even revised and re-revised revenue estimates haven’t been close. The exempted businesses and entities
removed $205 million annually from the state. More than 83 percent of those dollars went to five percent of the companies, and promised job growth did not occur. Individuals were able to keep more than $400 million, but the expected shopping trips didn’t happen either. Lower-income brackets actually suffered net losses with the removal of various exemptions and credits, while middleand upper-income individuals either paid down debt or increased savings.
With no “shot of adrenaline,” the state needed to shore up this year’s budget. First, a $770 million surplus was depleted. Millions dedicated for roads and childhood programs were redirected to the general fund. KPERS contributions were cut and reductions imposed on both K-12 and university systems. For the upcoming year, more transfers are planned from KDOT and the state will borrow money to shore up those
wasn’t falling back then either. And just imagine how much we could reduce state government spending while ignoring the rising cost of living. We can only assume that lawmakers such as Brownback, Kleeb, Lynn and DeGraaf are under careful supervision, that any sharp objects are kept well beyond their reach
and that someone is there to clean up the oatmeal that must surely be dribbling down their chins during each meal. If ignorance is bliss, then stand aside Arkansas and Montana. We have skipped to the head of the class.
(See BUDGET on page seven)
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“half of all Republicans (56%) support regulating carbon dioxide as a pollutant, including conservatives (54%).” There are, of course, still powerful forces standing in the way of meaningful action to address climate change. Two right-wing organizations, Donors Trust and Donors Capital Fund, funneled $125 million over three years to groups working to undermine climate science. And the billionaire Koch brothers, fierce opponents of environmental regulation, remain immeasurably influential among Republican politicians competing for their support. Indeed, White House hopefuls Marco Rubio, Scott Walker, Rand Paul and Ted Cruz have signed the “No Climate Tax” pledge sponsored by the Kochs’ advocacy organization, Americans for Prosperity. Despite the political obstacles, the recognition that climate change denial is wrong - scientifically, economically and morally - is spreading. Even the Pope is speaking out about the devastating economic consequences of climate change. But with the window to address the urgent dangers of climate change closing, it’s time for everyone in this growing, transpartisan alliance to work together and increase the pressure on our leaders to finally make climate action a reality. Katrina vanden Heuvel is editor and publisher of The Nation magazine
Hike
(continued from page four)
isn’t actually a tax hike, but is actually tax reform. Surely there is nothing in state law to prevent tax reform at the local level. But winning the grand prize for tapping into the mother lode of ignorance is Rep. Pete DeGraaf (R-Mulvane), who has a reputation for being one of the most outspoken op-
ponents of higher taxes. He suggested the House should return to 2012 spending levels rather than make any changes to the major tax cuts that it approved during that legislative session. Providing a brilliant analysis and a firm grasp of economics, DeGraaf explained, “If we just
ISIS confused by Trump’s analogies with operating a hotel by Andy Borowitz
MOSUL (The Borowitz Report) - A spokesman for ISIS said on Tuesday that its leaders were “genuinely confused” by the abundant hotel analogies in presidential candidate Donald Trump’s announcement speech, acknowledging that they were having a difficult time understanding how his colorful anecdotes about running a hotel empire translated into a strategy to defeat the terror group. In a prepared statement, the ISIS spokesman said that Trump’s pronouncements about such hotel-industry concerns as air-conditioning and renting the proper-sized ballroom were creating confusion within ISIS, as the group’s leaders struggled to determine how any of the examples applied to them. “We’re having a very hard time making sense of the speech,” the ISIS spokesman said. “He talked about defeating us, but it seemed like what he was saying was pretty specific to hotels.” Minutes after the statement was released, Trump responded that the fact that he had confused ISIS “means I’m already winning the war against it.” “In every one of my hotels, you’ve got elevators,” Trump said. “Some of them go up, some of them go down. ISIS is going down.” Andy Borowitz is a comedian and author
Trade
(continued from page five)
getting nothing at all, they say it’s worth the price of avoiding unfairness. Remember, I gave out the $1,000 arbitrarily. The initial recipients didn’t have to work for it or be outstanding in any way. When a game seems arbitrary, people are often willing to sacrifice gains for themselves in order to prevent others from walking away with far more - a result that strikes them as inherently wrong. This is how many currently view the American economy as CEOs of big firms now rake in 300 times more than the wages of average workers, while twothirds of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. Some of my students who refused anything less than $250 also say they feared allowing the initial recipient to keep a disproportionately large share would give him the power to rig the game even more in the future. Here again, we’re seeing this played out in real life as a few at the top gain increasing political power to alter the rules of the game to their advantage. If the American economy continues to create a few big winners and many who feel like losers by comparison, opposition to free trade won’t be the only casualty. Losers are likely to find many other ways to say “no deal.”
and so did the moderate Republicans who also occupy the figurative back row of the conservativedominated Legislature. Roll back the income tax cuts, they said, especially the exemptions that allow owners of certain types of businesses to pay zero income taxes, with nothing expected of them in return. A brilliant idea. Resolve the problem by reversing the tax cuts that caused the problems in the first place. Too bad King Sam wanted none of it. He still thinks Robert Reich is a former secretary of labor, is currently a Kansans will buy his delu- professor at the University of California at Berkeley, and is sions. an author Barbara Shelly is a columnist for the Kansas City Star
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went back to the spending policies of 2012, the budget would be balanced. “The sky,” he reminded us, “was not falling in 2012.” Our only problem with DeGraaf’s solution is that he didn’t go far enough back in time. Why stop with 2012? Why not 1965? Or 1950? The sky
States Rick Snyder’s original effort to create an exchange. And the leader of the North Carolina Senate is an ardent foe of the Affordable Care Act. Timing is another concern. State policymakers don’t know when they would need to make tough decisions. When will the court’s ruling go into effect, and when will people lose coverage? Will Congress pass a temporary patch? If so, how long will it last? Policymakers also expressed frustration with the Obama administration’s silence about its plans. Most states expect the administration to make it easier for them to transition to state exchanges. But they are reluctant to make concrete plans when they don’t know what the federal government expects of them.
USPS from making the same mistake, but here comes an even bigger - and much more important - retail behemoth saying, “We have to cut to survive.” That’s the pronouncement last year by the honcho of the US Postal Service, which has been eliminating employees, closing facilities and reducing services for years. Each new round of reductions drives away more customers, which causes clueless executives to prescribe more cuts. In a January decree, USPS virtually eliminat-
Rod Haxton can be reached at editor@screcord.com
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In the states that have failed to lay the groundwork, it will probably be impossible to set up an exchange in time for 2016. Open enrollment for next year is scheduled to begin this fall, meaning insurance company proposed rates to state regulators months ago. Even with the fullthroated support of the political establishment, many leaders said they would need at least 12 to 18 months to create a new exchange. Compounding the timing challenge, only one legislature of the five states we studied (Michigan), and eight of the 34 affected nationally, will be in session after the court’s ruling. Although a special session appears likely in Utah, creating an exchange may not be on the agenda. It’s far from
clear that special sessions will be called elsewhere. There is some reason for mild optimism. Moderate Republicans, we were told, might support a state exchange if the alternative is that many of their constituents lose their coverage. And the governor in each of the five states is expected to be more supportive of creating an exchange than their legislatures. But the bottom line is grim. The states aren’t prepared for King, and any debates over whether to create state exchanges will be turbulent and difficult. In the meantime, millions of people stand to lose their health insurance. David K. Jones is an assistant professor at the Boston University School of Public Health. Nicholas Bagley is an assistant professor of law at the University of Michigan
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ed overnight delivery of first-class mail, and it’s now planning to close or consolidate 82 regional mail processing plants. This means fewer workers handling the nation’s growing load of mail, creating further delays in delivery. The answer to this, say the slap-happy executives, is - guess what? - to cut even more “service” out of postal service. They want to close hundreds of our local post offices and eliminate Saturday mail delivery (which is one of
USPS’ major competitive advantages). Fed up with the deliberate degradation of this vital public service, postal workers themselves are putting forth a vision and innovative plan not merely for USPS to survive, but thrive. With more than 70 other national groups, they’ve forged “A Grand Alliance to Save Our Public Postal Service.” To be part of its actions, go to: www. AGrandAlliance.org. Jim Hightower is a national radio commentator, writer, public speaker and author
The Scott County Record • Page 7 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Budget accounts. KPERS contributions will be made via a $1 billion IOU, as the state bets market returns will surpass bond payments. Managed care companies will be assessed higher fees, which will make the state’s books look better but result in increased consumer charges. Even with the borrowing, transferring and general wishful thinking, FY 2016 still needed more than $400 million to close the gap. Elected officials are but a quick conference com-
Have questions about the Scott Community Foundation?
(continued from page six)
mittee away from closing it. Not by rescinding the income tax cuts, but increasing other taxes. The governor, House and Senate are willing to make the state’s taxation system even more regressive and have individuals pick up the tab. Sales tax will increase from 6.15 percent to 6.5 percent, taxes on tobacco products will go up, many exemptions and deductions will be eliminated - so the poorest 40 percent of Kansans will pick up the greatest share of the largest tax increase in state history.
And the governor still will get to whack current funding levels by another $50 million. As legislators return home they should be walking with heads hanging low, for they should be well aware that 2017 will be worse. There will be $400 million missing, as the transfers and borrowing won’t be able to be repeated. Revenue estimates will continue to miss, as the state will push back into recession. And it is all because
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lawmakers did not have the courage to acknowledge what was wrong with the budget. The massive income tax cuts have created a long-term problem which was ignored by the Legislature this session. That problem will be compounded, and the negative effects will be felt for years. Gov. Brownback and the slimmest of majorities in both chambers have failed this great state. Patrick Lowry is editor and publisher of The Hays Daily News. He can be reached at plowry@dailynews.net
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The Scott County Record • Page 8 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Final decision on $50M in budget cuts rests with Brownback Gov. Sam Brownback’s office will work to identify $50 million in budget cuts mandated by the Legislature for the upcoming fiscal year, although future restoration of those reductions could be constrained by automatic income tax cuts. Brownback addressed reporters Tuesday in a news conference recapping the historically long session that ended Friday. The governor acknowledged that the 113-day session was difficult for everyone involved and that many legislators did not want to vote for the tax bill that closed a $400 million budget gap. “But the beauty of it is they did it, and they actually got things done,” he said. As a condition of passing the tax increase, legislators built into the bill $50 million in spending cuts that Brownback is required to make to give the state treasury a bigger cushion and appease small-government conservatives. It was unclear Tuesday if cuts to health-related agencies would be included. The governor said he had made one line-item veto of $1.9 million for a special fund for the state’s
public universities. His administration will identify the rest of the cuts later. “We’ll look at everything we can on efficiencies, on privatization, on a series of areas that we’ll go at,” Brownback said. “But we haven’t started much of a serious look. This was a long legislative session to get through, and I wanted people to get rested up before you take on those next sets of issues.” Budget Director Shawn Sullivan said the $50 million in spending cuts cannot come from K-12 public education, the state pension system or the state’s debt service payments. He said he had tentatively identified $15 million in possible savings in the state’s Office of Information Technology and is examining other state agencies. “My hope is it’s not across-the-board (cuts),” Sullivan said. Brownback encouraged Kansans to combine the latest tax increase in their minds with the steep income tax cuts made in 2012. As a whole, he said, the package represents a shift from taxing “productivity” in the form of income taxes to tax-
ing “consumption” in the form of sales taxes. While some Kansans will end up with a higher tax burden, overall the three years of tax policy still result in a lower level of net tax revenue for the state. The most recent bill also stipulates that if economic growth pushes state revenues more than 102.5 percent ahead of the previous year, the excess must go to further income tax cuts. Brownback said that was the right approach because his intention is still to eliminate the state income tax. But he acknowledged that capping spending growth at 2.5 percent would constrain some budget priorities. “Almost all of it goes into K-12, Medicaid, KPERS,” he said. “Those have been the big three.” Brownback said he wants to continue making investments in public safety, including hiring more highway patrol officers. As for Kansas’ four state hospitals, he said, “we really need to help out as much as we can.” But the governor suggested that help might come in the form of better continuity of care to keep
people out of the hospitals rather than more funding. The state hospitals serve Kansans with mental illness or developmental disabilities. Brownback said the mental health system in particular needs to be better integrated so people get treatment before they need a state hospital. “Let’s start working with them much earlier, so I hope we can cut our costs down once we get to this system where you’re doing it in-patient, longterm,” Brownback said. “It’s a very expensive system.”
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hospital CEO responds
The Scott County Record • Page 9 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
SCH making changes to keep pace with growth There’s little doubt that Scott County Hospital CEO Mark Burnett was still stinging on Wednesday afternoon after hearing more than 30 minutes of criticism directed at himself and the hospital during a public meeting the previous day. That’s why a m e e t ing with m o r e than 30 departm e n t managers Mark Burnett may have been, pardon the cliche´, just what the doctor ordered. “When you come out of a meeting like that it gets you charged up again. It renews your optimism about this hospital and where we’re headed,” says Burnett. Burnett says that even though he was the subject of most of the allegations made during Tuesday’s meeting at the courthouse, he felt it was important to be there and to hear the public’s concerns. “Sure, it hurts. We understand the community’s concerns and we’re taking steps to address some of the things they were talking about,”
Burnett says. “Obviously, it’s not happening as quickly as they, or us, would like to see, but changes are taking place.” He also feels the nearly 20 employees in attendance at the meeting was a testimony to their concern. “I was surprised to see that many there. They were on their own time. I didn’t ask them to be there,” he says. Nursing Departments While he couldn’t talk about specific personnel decisions made over the past month, he said the recent hiring of Jeri Grove as the new chief nursing officer will satisfy two significant needs. First of all, it puts all nursing under the direction of an individual with nursing experience, which hasn’t been true of all staff in the past. “That’s something which has been strongly recommended in the past,” he explains. “Now it’s going to be mandated by Medicare, so we wanted to get that in place. “I know that not everyone was happy with that, but it’s something we had to do.”
‘Craig Stevens’ at VIP Center
The “Craig Stevens Band” will be performing on Sun., June 21, from 2:30-5:00 p.m., at the VIP Center in Scott City. Everyone is invited to attend. Refreshments will be served. For more information contact Todd Steele (8741500) or Velda Riddiough (874-2040).
Bingo at the VIP Center
The Scott County VIP Center will host bingo on Fri., June 26, following the noon meal at 1:00 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend.
June 30 is tag deadline
Persons whose last name begins with the letters H or I are reminded that license tags must be purchased by Tues., June 30, to avoid a penalty. Tags are due for autos, light trucks, motorcycles and motorized bikes. License tags can be purchased at the county treasurer’s office. Tags must be renewed during July for persons whose last name begins with J, K or L.
At the same time, Burnett says Grove will play a significant role in several key areas. At the top of the list will be healing the huge rift between nurses in the clinic and those who work in the hospital and emergency room, which was a major issue during Tuesday’s public meeting. “Jeri’s a tremendous asset and I think we’re already starting to see that,” noted Burnett. “Since coming here she has worked the floor, worked the night shift, with the out-patient nurses and in the emergency room. She’s doing that so she understands every situation and what can be done to make us more efficient and, above all, improve patient care. “She also has an understanding of the tidal wave of regulations that are coming. When that happens, Scott County Hospital will be ready.” In addition, a new management structure is being implemented within the nursing staff. Responding to Growth Burnett acknowledges that he and the hospital staff were caught unprepared for the tremendous
growth they experienced following the move into their new facility in April of 2012. “To be honest, we were overwhelmed with the increase in our customer load and with the staff that we had to hire in order to keep pace with that growth,” says Burnett. “The management system we had in place at the old hospital didn’t translate well with what we were experiencing at the new hospital. “We’re making changes. If something doesn’t work, then we’ll change some more.” Naturally, the sharp increase in customers has put a lot of stress on the three physicians Dr. Christian Cupp, Dr. Libby Hineman and Dr. Matthew Lightner. While doctor recruitment is always difficult as well as an continual process, Burnett has tried to fill the gap with additional physicians assistants and mid-level providers. “We have enough midlevels on staff that if you walk up to our (clinic) desk and are willing to see one of them, there’s a good chance we can get you in that same day,” Burnett notes. “But if you
insist on seeing a specific physician, then you may have to wait awhile.” Burnett says that can be a problem because many people are accustomed to seeing a physician immediately and that’s rarely going to happen. However, Dr. Lightner has been actively recruiting medical students who are in their residency program and two are scheduled to work the emergency room at SCH on the weekends. “Once they get their foot in the door that’s an opportunity for us to begin selling them on the idea of being here permanently,” Burnett noted. Zero Deficiencies Given the events of the past few weeks, Burnett and his staff did get some good news following a recent inspection by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Fire Marshal. Both inspections resulted in zero deficiencies. The KDHE inspection is very thorough, involving patient care, interviews of the staff and observations of the staff while with patients.
“To get zero deficiencies is almost unheard of,” Burnett says. “I think that was a real boost to morale.” In addition, the hospital’s financial situation has never been stronger. Record-setting profits are once again expected for the fiscal year that ends June 30, and the 201516 budget anticipates a record $28.5 million in gross revenue. Total gross revenue in 2014 was $23.7 million. In Burnett’s 9-1/2 years as CEO, hospital gross revenue has more than doubled from $11.5 million in 2006 to where it is today. “The staff has more than doubled, we have zero debt, with our latest inspection we had zero deficiencies and we support a payroll of about $12 million a year,” noted Burnett. “On top of that, the county’s annual obligation to funding the hospital is only $320,000. A lot of counties would love to be in that situation. “I feel like that’s a pretty good record to stand on,” he says. “It’s a testimony to our employees and their dedication to providing quality health care.”
Hospital “don’t want outpatients coming over after 5:00 (p.m.),” she noted. “I think there’s a perception that the out-patient nurses walk out at 5:00. People don’t see the times they stay later and take care of patients.” The turmoil, says Dible, has led to a number of resignations on the nursing staff. The recent hiring of Jeri Grove as the chief nursing officer is an effort to coordinate nursing staffs in both wings of the facility. Hendrix agreed this was a step in the right direction. “The CNO realizes there is a rift and she’s trying to put things back together,” said Dible. ‘Didn’t Happen Overnight’ “This is something that didn’t happen overnight,” agreed Janie Griswold, emergency room supervisor at SCH. She said the lack of teamwork and efforts to find a solution have been discussed for about two years. “Sometimes the ER is slammed, we’re drowning in patients, and (the clinic nurses) are bringing patients to us. We want teamwork to figure this out,” she told the commission. Griswold says there has “never been a feeling that
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‘we have your back.’ We never got a sense of cooperation from out-patient (nurses),” she said. “All we’ve ever wanted was to build teamwork.” Elizabeth Sometimes I n g u a n z a , the ER is a comptrol- slammed, ler at SCH, we’re drowning felt that in patients, “the nurses and (the could not clinic unite and nurses) are bringing the situation patients was fall- to us. We ing apart.” want teamShe said the work to staff was figure this out. supportive Janie of the deciGriswold ER sion to hire supervisor Grove. Colleen Deschner, a pharmacy nurse and a 28-year employee at SCH, feels the level of unhappiness among some employees “is a flame that got out of control.” She said it was the result of a “perfect storm” of circumstances, including implementation of the new medical computer system that created a lot of stress among employees, in addition to the hospital’s rapid expansion and increased patient load. At the same time, Deschner said she didn’t see out-patient nurses “running over (to the ER) when we were slammed.” “It takes teamwork,” Deschner emphasized. “It got out of control and it needs to stop.”
Tax Plan property tax question on the August ballot impossible, and very difficult to get a question onto the November ballot. Melissa Wangemann, lobbyist for the Kansas Association of Counties, said the deadlines for local budget and elections conflict. “None of that was really vetted at all and I am still struggling on how that’s going to work,” Wangemann said. Both Wangemann and Cindy Green, the deputy director for the League of Kansas Municipalities, expressed frustration with how the property tax lid seemingly appeared out of nowhere only to be on the verge of becoming law days later.
The Scott County Record • Page 10 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
She is also optimistic that the situation is getting better with the hiring of additional nurses. In defense of the outpatient nurses, Dible pointed out they choose to work an 8:00-5:00 shift because they may have children to pick up and they need to get home to their families. “They chose a job with those hours for a reason,” she said. “The nurses in ER are on a 12-hour shift because that’s what they chose. And they get paid more for that,” adds Hendrix. “I’ve seen out-patient nurses stay later when they could and they don’t get enough credit when that happens because nobody sees it.” Patient Care Several community members, however, feel that patient care has suffered. “I’ve always felt that the treatment I’ve received here has been the best you could get anywhere,” said Cheryl Tubbs. “I was in the hospital in April and I felt the treatment was the worst I’d ever experienced.” “Nine out of 10 people who come into my business are unhappy about the hospital,” says Lou Shelton, a local beauty shop operator. She expressed concern about the loss of staff,
including doctors and nurses. “My husband has been going to the hospital since April and he still hasn’t been able to see a doctor,” she added. Shelton said the physician’s assistants and other mid-levels can “see people who need their blood pressure checked. Let the doctors see the people who are really sick.” Shelton said the commissioners and the hospital board members have been hearing complaints from the nursing staff, but she urged them to listen to the people within the community who rely on the clinic and hospital for their health care. “You’re supposed to be representing the people,” she emphasized. Kay Glunz said the commission and hospital board should be concerned about the loss of employees “who truly care about this community and their patients.” “The people who live here and have done so much for this community and this hospital have been thrown under the bus,” she said, which was followed by a round of applause. “I honestly can’t believe you haven’t heard something,” Shelton told the commission, referring to circumstances at the hospital. “People are talk-
ing everywhere. It’s bad and we’re paying for it.” S o m e My hush o s p i t a l band employees has been insisted that going to changes are the hospital since being made April and and the situ- he still ation is get- hasn’t been able ting better. “ I s s u e s to see a doctor. are being Lou addressed,” Shelton, Scott s a i d City Michelle Nix, an administrative assistant. “We’re making changes and Mark is turning things around.” Intimidation Factor Hendrix feels that the “intimidation factor” is preventing people from speaking out and that efforts to address issues are suppressed. “If you make a suggestion for a change, people consider it a personal attack. People are told that if something doesn’t happen in their department then don’t share it,” Hendrix said. “That’s disconcerting. Our goal should be to improve the overall quality of what we do for our patients.” Hendrix says she wrote an incident report, “which I’m legally mandated to do and I was written up for writing the report.” “After being written up, I was told I had to sign (an agreement) that
I had been wrong and I refused to do that,” she adds. “I tried to explain in my meeting with my supervisor and risk manager that I didn’t feel I had violated policy and they couldn’t point out where I had.” Hendrix was written up by her supervisors on May 6 and she followed by submitting a 19-page letter explaining the situation to hospital board chairman Ernie Smith on May 11. “A week later, I was contacted by the board and told it was a personnel issue and I had to go to Mark (Burnett),” she says. Hendrix felt the board had not followed through on its responsibility to investigate her complaint. It was after that board meeting that she first met with the county commission on May 19. Hendrix then met with the hospital board on May 26 and was terminated on May 29. Hendrix said she wasn’t told on what grounds she was being fired. “I was told they weren’t going to dispute my unemployment and they had a ($5,000) settlement package which I refused,” Hendrix said. “If I had accepted it, I could not make any comments about the hospital or David Mark Burnett. I didn’t feel it benefitted the community to stay silent.”
(continued from page two)
The two organizations don’t yet know whether the requirements and the exemptions will combine to force frequent elections among cities and counties or if they will be a rare occurrence. The election requirement wasn’t proposed in legislation earlier in the session, Wangemann said, and a hearing where supporters and opponents could weigh in wasn’t held. Green said the legislation took away local control without offering governments the chance to make their case. “We were totally caught off guard by it,” Green said. “But it’s been on our agenda to always oppose a cap like this.”
The property tax lid first emerged on the Senate floor as an amendment from Sen. Jacob LaTurner (R-Pittsburg). Over the past few weeks, lawmakers often said that Kansans find property taxes the most odious. With the overall tax package focused on sales and income taxes, the amendment offered the legislature a way to address property taxes as well. With the election requirements not going into effect until 2018, lawmakers can make changes next year. Both Wangemann and Green said their organizations will have the chance to pursue legislative changes when the legislature reconvenes in January.
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The Scott County Record
Youth/Education
Page 11 - Thursday, June 18, 2015
It’s final: mascot to remain the Bluejay The debate over the future of the Scott City Middle School mascot didn’t turn out to be much of a debate at all. It will remain a Bluejay. And it’s a decision board members said they hope they don’t have to revisit again. The issue was first brought to the board of education a year ago when it was rejected. The SCMS site council revived the mascot question again this spring with a survey that site council member Janeen Gooden felt showed overwhelming support for changing the mascot to the Scott Community High School Beaver. According to Gooden, there were 1,816 responses to the
survey with the Beaver winning by a 2-to-1 margin. “That’s very persuasive,” Gooden told board members on Monday evening. They weren’t convinced. Board member Christine Cupp pointed out that the survey was accompanied by a cover letter that told individuals why they should vote for the change. “The survey was very
biased,” she observed. “I don’t think it carries as much validity because of the bias in which it was conducted.” It was also pointed out that individuals with more than one IP address could vote multiple times. One individual, it was noted, voted three times. Board member Lynnette Robinson felt that a number of people in the community didn’t even know that the mascot was an issue, and there was no survey being conducted, until after the fact. “There are a lot of people with strong feelings about this who felt they weren’t informed,” said Robinson. “Unless you had kids in the middle school, you
probably didn’t even know this was being considered.” Board member Ben Taylor said that despite promises made by Gooden and the administration, changing the mascot will cost money, which is one of the reasons he opposed a change. The only board member voting in favor of the change was Eric Erven, who said it would be convenient to be able to wear the same Beaver shirt to SCMS or SCHS events. Board member Leann Wiechman felt it was unfair to be changing the mascot and school colors given the time and expense the SCMS cheerleaders committed to fundraising events for new uniforms for
themselves and a new mascot costume. “My daughter was a cheerleader and I know how much work they put into raising money,” Wiechman said. “Do we want to tell them that what they did was a waste of time and money?” Supt. Jamie Rumford said that whatever decision the board makes it needs to “go all in” so this isn’t a question that keeps resurfacing. “Let’s make this a final decision so that it’s a done deal,” replied Robinson. The mascot was left as it is on a 5-1 vote (Erven opposed; Mark Davis abstained, which is a vote with the majority).
Deardens on KWU honor list
just fiddlin’ around
Kayla and Krissa Dearden, both of Scott City, have been named to the spring semester President’s Honor Roll at Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina. To earn a place on the President’s roll, full-time students must maintain a 3.75 or higher grade point average.
3 on spring roll at NCKTC
Eight-year-old Ryan Latta tests his talent on the fiddle during a summer reading program at the Scott County Library on Wednesday afternoon. Youngsters were entertained by Blue Steele band members Mike Steele and Daniel Dunn, after which each one had an opportunity to play a variety of instruments that Steele and Dunn had brought with them. (Record Photo)
Three area students were named to the spring semester Dean’s Honor Roll at NorthCentral Kansas Technical College, which has campuses in Beloit and Hays. To be named to the Dean’s list, students must maintain a grade point average of 3.53.99. Area honor students and their majors are: Dighton: Dylan Larsen, electrical technology; and Derek Moomaw, plumbing, heating and air conditioning. Scott City: Colin Foos, electrical technology.
No glitch in Kansas assessment tests
Larsen is spring grad at NCKTC
After a tumultuous pilot year in 2014 that ended with declaring the results invalid, this year’s state math and reading tests went off with relatively few hitches, testing officials said. Kansas students and schools should have access to their scores on the revamped math and reading tests in September, officials told the Kansas State Board of Education this week. “We’re relieved, we’re appreciative of everybody who stuck with us,” said Marianne Perie, head of the Center for Educational Testing and Evaluation at the University of Kansas. “We feel like we’ve got some good data now to give teachers and schools and parents some good feedback about their kids and how they’re doing on these new standards.” KU’s testing center designs and administers Kansas’ state tests.
This year will be the first time the public gets a glimpse at scores from the new, more technologically advanced tests - which are aligned to multistate math and English standards called the Common Core, guidelines that designers say are more rigorous than previous standards. Perie told the state board Tuesday that KU had successfully staved off any further cyberattacks. Last year’s tests were marred by weeks of cyberattacks of unknown origin. This compounded the effect of internal technical glitches that became apparent as Kansas rolled out the new test design and test delivery platform for the first time. Testing staff worked to resolve the glitches and contracted with a private company to shield the testing platform from cyberattacks.
The cyberattacks didn’t compromise the security of student data, but slowed or blocked schools from accessing the tests. In the end, the problems affected about one-third of math tests taken by Kansas students and two-thirds of English tests. This meant results for many tests weren’t reliable, so they were deemed invalid and no scores were published. On Tuesday, Perie presented other news about this year’s tests that she described as positive, as well. Data analysis of the results indicates that testing took, on average, less time than expected, she said. The average student took about three hours to complete the math and reading tests, plus another 20 minutes for a complex math-performance task and 50 minutes for a complex writing task.
Testing officials had given schools initial time estimates of five hours for math and reading, plus 50 minutes for the math performance task and 90 minutes for the writing task. Perie said staff from her center visited various school districts to observe students taking the tests this spring, in hopes of identifying any problems. They found third-graders appeared comfortable typing on computers. This issue has drawn some concern from educators because the tests require students as young as the third grade to compose essays. Perie said now that Kansas has overcome the biggest hurdles of developing the new tests, her center can put more time into developing tools that help teachers see throughout the year what their students are and aren’t successfully learning, and what steps to take to help them make progress.
Saturdays • 9:00 a.m. - Noon Scott Community High School South parking lot 712 Main St., Scott City
Dylan Larsen, Dighton, was among spring graduates from North-Central Kansas Technical College. Larsen earned an Associates of Applied Science degree in electrical technology.
Roof repairs are an issue at former SWS
With roof repairs looming at the former Shallow Water School, the USD 466 board of education is looking at removing all property from the building and no longer using it. It’s been used as storage for old technology equipment, sewing machines, bleacher parts, lockers and lumber. “It’s probably time to dispose of what we aren’t using,” suggested Board President Mark Davis. The board will see what it can dispose of and possibly build a storage building for the remaining property.
The Scott County Record
For the Record
The Scott County Record Page 12 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Money management in the ‘boomerang’ household Jason Alderman
Due to recent economic realities, multi-generational living has been on the rise for many families. A Pew Research Center analysis showed that a record 57 million Americans, equal to a little over 18 percent of the U.S. population, lived in multi-generational family households in 2012 - double the number in 1980. The major driver was young adults ages 25-34.
Nearly 24 percent of these older millennials lived in multi-generational households, increased from nearly 19 percent in 2007 and 11 percent in 1980. It’s possible the “boomerang” family trend will remain in place for some time to come. For homeowner parents who may also be juggling the “sandwich” responsibilities of caring for older relatives, paying attention to the financial and behavioral
details of taking in family is critical. Here are some suggestions to consider: •Your finances come first. Operating a full house means higher utility and food costs and additional wear and tear on the property. Taking in family also shouldn’t derail a parent’s career goals or retirement planning, nor should it diminish other necessary financial objectives like maximizing savings or eliminating debt.
That’s why dual- or single-parent households might begin with a complete financial assessment before welcoming kids or elders back home. A discussion with qualified financial and tax advisors might be worthwhile to determine how much expense you can take on. For arrangements that go beyond free lodging to direct cash support of family members, gift tax issues should be explored.
GC mother surrenders, posts bond in medical marijuana case Andy Marso KHI News Service
A Garden City mother whose home was raided March 24 after her son took issue with an antimarijuana presentation at school turned herself in June 15 at the Finney County Law Enforcement Center. Shona Banda, 38, was booked into jail and later released after posting $50,000 bond. Her attorney, Sarah Swain, Lawrence, said Banda was charged with five counts four of them marijuanarelated - plus endangering a child. If convicted on all of them, she faces a maximum of 30 years in prison. “This is a woman who was using cannabis to treat a disease, Crohn’s disease, that was absolutely debilitating,” Swain said.
“So, not only is it that she’s facing life imprisonment just due to the years, but essentially it’s a death sentence.” Swain said cannabis oil cured Banda of her Crohn’s disease. “She was in and out of hospitals. She had multiple surgeries. It was absolutely debilitating, and all of that would be present in her medical records,” Swain said. “The same records would show that once she started using cannabis oil, almost all of the conditions that she was suffering from her inability to maintain weight, the chronic pain that she was in - all of those things essentially disappeared.” According to Swain, Banda has been without the oil since her home was raided. “It is medicine, and she
Public Notice (Published in The Scott County Record Thurs., June 18, 2015)1t BUDGET REVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE 2015 REVISED AND THE 2016 BUDGET FOR THE WESTERN KANSAS GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 OF LANE, SCOTT, WICHITA, GREELEY AND WALLACE COUNTIES, KANSAS NOTICE OF HEARING Notice is hereby given pursuant to K.S.A. 82a-1030 that: WHEREAS, a revised budget for 2015 and a yearly budget for 2016 has been duly drafted and filed on behalf of the above captioned district. WHEREAS, a copy of said budgets are available for public inspection in the
office of the secretary of said district at 906 W. 5th, Scott City, Kansas. NOW THEREFORE, a public hearing will be held on the 21st day of July, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. (CDT) at the district office in Scott City, Kansas at 906 W. 5th, for the purpose of presentation of proposed changes, modifying and adopting a final draft of said budget. Any persons desiring to be heard shall file in duplicate with the office five days prior to said date of hearing a written statement of their intent to appear at said hearing and the substance of the views they wish to express. Greg Graff, President Board of Directors Western Kansas Groundwater Management District No. 1
Public Notice (First published in The Scott County Record Thurs., June 11, 2015; last published Thurs., June 25, 2015)3t IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF SCOTT COUNTY, KANSAS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF TRACEY DEE OBESO aka TRACEY OBESO CASE NO. 2015-PR-9 NOTICE OF HEARING THE STATE OF KANSAS TO ALL PERSONS CONCERNED: You are notified that on June 5, 2015, a Petition was filed in this Court by Richard Thomas McCollum, an heir, devisee, legatee and named fiduciary in the Last Will and Testament of Tracey Dee Obeso, deceased, dated May 12, 2005, requesting In-
formal Administration and to Admit the Will to Probate. You are required to file your written defenses to the Petition on or before July 7, 2015, at 2:00 p.m., in this Court, in the City of Scott City, in Scott County, Kansas, at which time and place the cause will be heard. Should you fail to file your written defenses, judgment and decree will be entered in due course upon the Petition. Richard Thomas McCollum Petitioner Jake W. Brooks Attorney at Law 101 E. 6th P.O. Box 664 Scott City, Ks. 67871 620-872-7167 Attorney for Petitioner
has already lost a dramatic amount of weight since she has not been using it,” Swain said. “She has had to have oral surgery due to some infections in her mouth that were kept at bay when she was using cannabis oil but have now come back. So her health is not good, and I think it will only continue to deteriorate as this case drags on.” Swain said her ultimate goal is to stop marijuana from being classified as a Schedule I drug. “It’s our goal with this case to not just change the way that Shona Banda is treated here in Garden City, but to take this case every step of the way to litigate it all the way up to the United States Supreme Court, if we need to, to make sure that this drug is no longer classified as a Schedule I drug,” Swain
said. “And as soon as it’s classified as something less than that, millions of people’s lives will be positively affected by that change.” Schedule I drugs, by definition, have no medicinal value and a high potential for abuse. Swain said there are hundreds, maybe thousands, of studies that show that cannabis does have value as a medicine. She said there has never been a confirmed death attributed to marijuana toxicity, which is not the case for many legal drugs - even aspirin. Banda previously lived in Colorado, where marijuana is legal not only for medical use but for recreational use as well. Possession of any amount of marijuana in Kansas is a felony on the second offense.
Public Notice (First published in The Scott County Record Thurs., June 11, 2015; last published Thurs., June 25, 2015)3t IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF SCOTT COUNTY, KANSAS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GREG A. SKIBBE AKA GREG ALAN SKIBBE, DECEASED, Case No. 14-PR-09 NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION FOR FINAL SETTLEMENT THE STATE OF KANSAS TO ALL PERSONS CONCERNED You are notified that a petition shall be filed in this Court by Gary Skibbe duly appointed, qualified and acting Executor of the Estate of Greg A. Skibbe, deceased, requesting that Petitioner’s acts be approved; account be settled and allowed; the heirs be determined; the Will be construed and the Estate be assigned to the persons entitled thereto; the Court find the allowances requested for attorneys’ fees
and expenses are reasonable and should be allowed; the costs be determined and ordered paid; the administration of the Estate be closed; upon the filing of receipts the Petitioner be finally discharged as the Executor of the Estate of Greg A. Skibbe, deceased, and the Petitioner be released from further liability. You are required to file your written defenses to the petition on or before the 7th of July, 2015, at 2:00 p.m., in the District Court of Scott County, Kansas, at which time and place the cause will be heard, Should you fail to file your written defenses, judgment and decree will be entered in due course upon the petition. Gary Skibbe Executor Jake W. Brooks Attorney at Law P.O. Box 664 Scott City, Ks. 67871 Attorney for Petitioner
Public Notice (Published in The Scott County Record Thurs., June 18, 2015)1t BEFORE THE STATE CORPORATION COMMISSION OF THE STATE OF KANSAS NOTICE OF FILING APPLICATION RE: Landmark Resources, Inc.- Application for Commingling of Production in the Wesseler 1-28 in Scott County, Kansas. TO: All Oil and Gas Producers, unleased Mineral Interest Owners, Landowners, and all persons whosoever concerned. You, and each of you, are hereby notified that Landmark Resources, Inc. has filed an application to commingle the Lansing “I” and Marmaton producing formations at the Wesseler 1-28, located 1482’ from the south line and 2020’ from the east line of SE/4 Sec. 28-T16S-
34W in Scott County, Kansas. Any persons who object to or protest this application shall be required to file their objections or protests with the Conservation Division of the State Corporation Commission of the State of Kansas within fifteen (15) days from the date of publication. These protests shall be filled pursuant to Commission regulations and must state specific reasons why the grant of the application may cause waste, violate correlative rights, or pollute the natural resources of the State of Kansas. All persons interested or concerned shall take notice of the foregoing and shall govern themselves accordingly. Landmark Resources, Inc. 1616 S. Voss Road, #600 Houston, TX 77057
•Make a real agreement. A home is stability and therefore something of significant value. That is why it is appropriate to consider rent or request in-kind services in exchange for room and board. Young adults - particularly those who were fully under parental support in college - need to learn this important lesson even if they are moving home to save money to pay off loans, to buy a car
or put a down payment on a home. Ask trusted advisors about what makes sense in your situation. If you decide to accept rent, know there are potential tax issues based on the structure, time frame and expenses related to such an agreement. Legal paperwork may be required, but there also may be rental expenses you can deduct. •Establish timelines. (See MONEY on page 13)
Scott Co. LEC Report Scott City Police Department June 12: Kelly Collins was arrested for DUI, transportation of an alcoholic beverage, refuse to submit to PBT and failure to stop at a flashing traffic signal. He was transported to the LEC. June 12: A theft was reported in the 700 block of East 5th Street. June 12: A report was taken of property theft in the 500 block of Monroe. June 16: A report was taken of aggravated battery. Scott County Sheriff’s Department June 11: A report was taken for criminal deprivation of property. June 15: Amanda Seig turned herself in at the LEC on a Reno County warrant. She later bonded out. June 16: Cordell Green reported a rollover accident on Big Valley Road when he lost control of his pickup on loose gravel.
Public Notice (First published in The Scott County Record Thurs., June 11, 2015; last published Thurs., June 18, 2015)2t NOTICE OF REQUESTS FOR ZONING VARIANCE Notice is hereby given that the Scott City Planning Commission will hold a special meeting on June 25, 2015, at 7:00 p.m., at the Scott City Council Meeting Room at City Hall, 221 West 5th Street, Scott City, Kansas, to consider the following agenda items: 1) Application for conditional use permit by Gerald Edwards to allow a house to be constructed with setback 8 inches less than allowed by ordinance on: Lot Eleven (11) and Twelve (12), Block Thirty-five (35), Original Town to the City of Scott City, Kansas (201 E. 5th) 2) Application for variance by Rod and Kathy Haxton to allow an addition to be constructed with setback 4 ½ feet less than allowed by ordinance on: Lot Five (5), Block Seven (7), Webster’s 3rd Addition to the City, (1006 Cedar Drive) All interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard at such hearing. Dated: June 9, 2015 Rodney Hogg, chairman Scott City Planning Commission
Moving? Remember to 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 13 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Insurance scams are plentiful after storms During the past two months tornadoes, hail, high winds, driving rains and flooding have provided feelings of anxiety and frustration for Kansans whose property has been damaged. Those are the emotions that insurance con artists feed on. The Kansas Insurance Department (KID) has compiled a list of common scams that occur when disaster strikes, along with tips on how to deal with them. • Wi n d s h i e l d / g l a s s fraud. Some scammers
Money (continued from page 12)
have been known to stand outside of car washes, showing drivers cracks in the glass on their vehicle, then persuading them to have the glass fixed/ replaced. In many cases, the replacement products used are substandard. Consumers should go through their insurance companies to have glass repair documented and to find company-approved repair businesses. •Roof damage from hail. KID urges homeowners to call their insurance company first before
having any repairs done. The company can recommend reliable roofers who can back up their work. However, in some cases, roofing companies lease the use of their company names to out-of-area roofers. Always check to see if that is happening, especially in largerpopulated areas. Beware of door-to-door solicitors who have never been on your roof, claiming you have damage. Also, never sign an insurance check over to contractors prior to their completion of the work.
Public Notice (Published in The Scott County Record Thurs., June 18, 2015)1t
TREASURER’S QUARTERLY STATEMENT SCOTT COUNTY, KANSAS • AS OF APRIL 30, 2015
In the real world, finan- Total cash in the Scott County Treasury as of the above date cial arrangements are rare$13,121,057.68 ly open-ended. Depending FUND BALANCES on the financial, tax and FUND legal advice you receive General .................................................................. $ 2,282,099.64 as well as local tenant Community Development Block Grant Loan ........ 0.00 law and personal prefer- Micro-Loan Revolving Loan Fund ......................... 89,739.41 3,288.42 ences, you may be signing Alcohol Program .................................................... Indoor Arena Fund ................................................ 9,713.08 an official lease for your 9,810.63 Special Cemetery Equipment ................................. family member’s stay County Employee Benefits ..................................... 1,055,791.72 with a specific timeline of County Health - M. Koehn Memorial ..................... 122.67 months or years. County Health - J. Binns Memorial ........................ 391.99 285,196.18 Whatever the require- County Health ......................................................... 21,265.36 ments, make sure you County Health - Bio-Terrorism ................................ County Health - Special Assistance ........................ 12,863.00 have an effective frame- Home Health ........................................................... 0.00 work that sets specific Hospital Maintenance .............................................. 0.00 61,480.87 financial and behavioral Library Maintenance ................................................ Library Building ........................................................ 16,523.18 rules you want met. Noxious Weed .......................................................... 76,567.87 •Start with a family Special Noxious Weed Equipment ........................... 108,992.31 meeting. Landfill Special Equipment Sales ............................ 23,700.32 Before moving trucks Road and Bridge ...................................................... 1,117,927.41 arrive, family members Fire District ............................................................... 176,448.28 County Public Buildings ........................................... 1,217,169.40 should meet for a discus- Special Highway Improvement ................................ 300,921.47 sion about the impend- Special Road Machinery .......................................... 364,853.68 ing move. Start by letting Equipment Reserve .................................................. 464,721.50 your child or family mem- County Bond and Interest ........................................ 1,774,554.58 Hospital Bond and Interest ...................................... 178,672.59 ber talk through why they Sheriff Equipment Fund ............................................. 294.64 want to move in, whether Special Law Enforcement .......................................... 5,705.21 5,890.82 they have financial goals Prosecutor Training and Assistance ........................... 471.25 tied to the living arrange- Attorney Worthless Check Fees ................................. Register of Deeds Technology Fund .......................... 45,702.16 ment and how long they Clerk Technology Fund ............................................... 555.11 plan to stay. Treasurer Technology Fund ........................................ 555.11 Share the structure Motor Vehicle Operating Fund ................................... 7,333.20 you envision, including Zella O. Carpenter (S.A.) ............................................ 316,073.46 the payment details you Zella O. Carpenter .................................................... 508,740.00 Oil and Gas Valuation Depletion ............................... 1,044,588.78 would consider. No mat- Keystone General ..................................................... . 13.07 ter how an agreement is Keystone Hall ............................................................. 13.03 Scott Township General ............................................. 537.72 struck, it should begin with a full discussion of Current Tax ................................................................ 1,035,853.51 Tax Escrow Accounting ............................................. 37,617.43 needs, preferences, finan- Current Tax Interest ................................................... 1,091.19 cial terms, and most of Delinquent Personal Property Tax ............................. 9,129.19 9,883.96 all, ways to make the Redemptions ............................................................. Commercial Motor Vehicle ........................................ 20,002.52 arrangement successful Motor Vehicle Registration Tax .................................. 200,604.25 and smooth. Recreation Vehicle Tax ............................................... 3,903.92 Once the move hap- 911 Tariff ..................................................................... 15,154.56 pens, regular conversa- 911 Tariff - Wireless .................................................... 166,428.49 5,622.45 tions should continue Wildlife and Parks ....................................................... Driver’s Licenses .......................................................... 134.00 about the living arrange- Motor Vehicle ................................................................ 3,947.08 ment. After all, boomer- Vehicle Registration Tax Interest ................................... 1,949.19 ang families have unique, Motor Sales Tax ............................................................. 20,446.82 $ 13,121,057.68 ongoing financial issues Total All Funds that will require discus- State of Kansas sion. County of Scott •Prepare to track I do solemnly swear that the above statement is complete, true expenses. and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief, so help me Once agreed, retrofit God. your household budget to Lark Speer County Treasurer keep track of higher food, utility and related expens- Subscribed to and sworn to before me this 11th day of June 2015 es for cost-sharing and Alice Brokofsky potential tax purposes. Notary Public Having people you love living with you will hopefully have many rewards that go beyond simple dollars, but always know what the arrangement is costing you. Bottom line: Opening your home to returning family members is a real financial commitment. Think through money, tax and household issues before you say yes.
Check the contractors’ insurance certificate, and if you need verification, call the insurance carrier or KID at 800-432-2494. •Insurance adjusters working independently of a company are not licensed to estimate damage on personal property in Kansas. They can, however, adjust for commercial property. If an adjuster comes to your home, ask the person what company he/she is working for. If it’s not your homeowners insurance company, decline the solicitation and con-
tact the KID. Never sign Power of Attorney documents with a door-to-door adjuster. •Business “slip and fall” scams. Although this does not just occur after storm damage, the idea of someone slipping on debris and then suing for damages is heightened following bad weather. This is especially true for areas near commercial buildings, and it can be difficult to dispute if the area is not cleaned up shortly after the damage happens.
•Vehicles that have been in floods in other states often make their way here. If you have any concern about a vehicle’s history, check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) against available vehicle databases yourself, if you are working on a private sale, or have a salesman do it if you are buying from a dealership. Consumers can also visit the KID website, www.ksinsurance.org and print a copy of the brochure “Before and After the Storm” for tips on how to take precautions.
Public Notice (Published in The Scott County Record Thurs., June 18, 2015)1t BEFORE THE STATE CORPORATION COMMISSION OF THE STATE OF KANSAS NOTICE OF FILING APPLICATION RE: Landmark Resources, Inc- Application for Commingling of Production in the Decker 4-9 in Scott County, Kansas. TO: All Oil and Gas Producers, unleased Mineral Interest Owners, Landowners, and all persons whosoever concerned. You, and each of you, are hereby notified that Landmark Resources, Inc. has filed an application to commingle the Marmaton and Cherokee producing formations at the Decker 4-9, located 782’ from the north line and 2401’ from the east line
J&R Car and Truck Center
of NE/4 Sec. 9-T17S-34W in Scott County, Kansas. Any persons who object to or protest this application shall be required to file their objections or protests with the Conservation Division of the State Corporation Commission of the State of Kansas within fifteen (15) days from the date of publication. These protests shall be filled pursuant to Commission regulations and must state specific reasons why the grant of the application may cause waste, violate correlative rights, or pollute the natural resources of the State of Kansas. All persons interested or concerned shall take notice of the foregoing and shall govern themselves accordingly. Landmark Resources, Inc. 1616 S. Voss Road, #600 Houston, TX 77057
208 W. 5th St., Scott City 620-872-2103 800-886-2103
Come Grow With Us!
www.JRCARandTRUCK.com Cars 4515 2008 Chevy Impala LTZ, V6, Sunroof, Bose ..............Black/Gray Leather.... 79K mi.....(1874A) ..... $CALL 2009 Chevy Malibu 2LT, 3.6L, Sunroof, Golden Pewter Metal/Black Leather, 91K mi, (1999A) ...... $9,900 2009 Pontiac G8 GT Sedan, 6.0L ............................. Silver/Black Leather.... 69K mi.... (1952C) ... $17,500 2013 Chevy Sonic LT, FWD, Mylink ..................... Crystal Red/Gray Cloth...... 4K mi.......(1395) ... $15,500 2013 Chevy Sonic LT .............................................Dark Gray/Black Cloth.... 21K mi.....(1804A) ... $12,900 2014 Chevy Cruze 2LT RS, MyLink ..........................White/Black Leather.... 18K mi.......(1942) ... $17,500 2014 Chevy Camaro Z28, 7.0L, Manual........................White/Black Leather....2K mi.......(1991) .... $CALL 2014 Chevy Impala Limited LTZ, Sunroof, V6 ........ Silver/Black Leather.... 13K mi.......(2017) ... $19,500 SUVs 2007 GMC Yukon XL SLE-2, 4x4, 2nd Row Bench .......Bronze/Tan Cloth.. 139K mi.....(1997A) ... $14,900 2008 Pontiac Torrent, AWD, Sunroof, V6 ................. Black/Black Leather.... 95K mi.....(1837A) ..... $8,900 2009 GMC Yukon Denali, AWD, Sunroof, NAV, DVD, Silver Birch/Black Lthr, 96K mi ...(2012A) ... $26,900 2010 GMC Acadia SLT-2, AWD, DVD, Heads Up, White Diamond/Gray Lthr, 109K mi, (1900B) ... $17,900 2011 Chevy Suburban LTZ, 4x4, DVD, NAV, SNRF, Red Jewel/Gray Lthr, 69K mi.. ......(2007A) .. $35,900 2014 GMC Yukon XL Denali, AWD, Sunroof, NAV, DVD, Crystal Red/Tan Lthr, 23K mi...(1935) ... $49,500 2014 GMC Yukon Denali, AWD, Sunroof, NAV, DVD, Mocha Stl/Tan Lthr, 34K mi ..........(1948) ... $47,900 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, 4x4, V6, NAV, Silver/Black Leather, 13K mi.........(1956) ... $36,500 2015 GMC Yukon XL SLT, 4x4 SNRF, NAV, DVD, Wh. Diamond/Black Lthr .. 17K mi.......(2022) ... $58,500 Pickups 2002 Chevy 1500HD Crew LS, 4x4, 6.0L, Bucket Seats, White/Tan Cloth, 127K mi........(1980A) .. $CALL 2006 Chevy 2500 HD Crew LT, 2WD, 6.6L Diesel, Long Box, Wh/Gray Cloth, 312K mi, (1974A) ... $9,900 2006 Chevy Colorado Crew 2LT, 2WD ........................Silver/Black Cloth.. 119K mi.... (1995B) ..... $9,500 2008 Chevy 2500HD LT, 4x4, 6.6L, Z71, 5th Wheel .....White/Black Cloth.. 117K mi.....(1992A) ..... $CALL 2009 Chevy 1500 Crew LT, 2WD, 5.3L..........................White/Gray Cloth.. 111K mi.....(1830A) ... $18,900 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Laramie, 4x4, 5.7L, 20” wheels, Burg/Tan Lthr, 89K mi, (1756B) . $22,900 2009 Chevy 1500 Crew LTZ, 4x4, Z71, 5.3L .......Black Granite/Gray Lthr.... 62K mi.....(1840A) ... $25,500 2011 Chevy 1500 Crew LT, 4x4, Z71, 5.3L ..................White/Black Cloth.... 47K mi.....(1854A) ... $27,800 2011 GMC 1500 Ext Cab SLE, 4x4, Z71, 5.3L .............Silver/Black Cloth.... 74K mi.....(1964A) ... $23,900 2011 Ford F250 Ext Cab XLT, 4x4, 6.2L Gas, Alum Flatbed, White/Gray Cloth, 51K mi, (1993A) . $24,500 2012 Chevy 1500 Crew LT, 4x4, Z71, 5.3L ..................White/Black Cloth.... 81K mi.....(1852A) ... $25,800 2013 Ford F150 Crew XLT, 4x4, 3.5L EcoBoost ...........White/Gray Cloth.... 80K mi.......(1939) ... $26,500 2013 GMC 1500 Crew SLT, 4x4, Z71, 5.3L................ White/Gray Leather.... 65K mi.....(1977A) ... $31,200 2014 Ram 2500HD Crew Laramie, 4x4, Diesel, H/C Seats, White/Black Lthr, 14K mi ..(1928) ... $48,900 2014 Ram 2500HD Crew Longhorn, 4x4, Diesel, NAV, Western Brown/Brown Lthr, 22K mi, (1959A)..$51,500 2014 Chevy 1500 EXT Cab LTZ, 4x4, Z71, 5.3L .. Blue Granite/Gray Lthr.... 22K mi.......(2021) ... $36,800 2014 Ram 3500HD Laramie Mega Cab, Diesel, 4x4, NAV, White-Gray/Tan Lthr, 19K mi, (1979A) $CALL 2015 GMC 2500HD Crew Denali, 4x4, 6.0L, Gas, SNRF, Z71, Stone Blue/Blk Lthr, 1K mi, (2019)$51,500
The Scott County Record • Page 14 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Public health goals in state largely unmet in 2015 Andy Marso KHI News Service
When the 2015 legislative session started in January, public health advocates had reason to be optimistic they could reach some of their most ambitious goals. The Kansas Hospital
Association was ramping up efforts to expand Medicaid coverage to about 100,000 uninsured Kansans, with the political implications of the 2014 election over. Newly re-elected Gov. Sam Brownback had proposed to almost triple the state cigarette tax - a
prospect that won quick support from groups that fight cancer and heart disease. Groups that had pushed for years for a mid-level dental provider license to allow Kansans more access to oral care had a new and powerful ally in Americans for Prosperity.
But by the time the dust settled on June 12 - Day 113 of the traditionally 90-day session those health policy goals and others were unmet. By then the state’s cashstrapped budget also had opened a series of new battles for hospitals and other health care provid-
Website provides prenatal resources for Kansas women The March of Dimes Greater Kansas Chapter, in partnership with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Amerigroup Foundation, recently launched a “Becoming a Mom” website portal designed to increase access to prenatal education for Kansas women. It is part of the “Healthy Babies are Worth the Wait” initiative, focused on clinical care collabo-
ration and prenatal care education. As part of that initiative, the “Becoming a Mom” program increases access to quality prenatal care in high-risk populations. It is designed to improve birth outcomes for low-income women and to address birth disparities among some racial and ethnic populations. KDHE has expanded the “Becoming a Mom” program to additional
Kansas communities through a new $20,000 grant from Amerigroup Foundation. Kansas counties currently implementing the “Becoming a Mom” program are Saline, Geary, Riley, Pottawatomie, Crawford, Wyandotte, Reno and Lyon. “One in nine babies in Kansas is born prematurely. A recent Kansas Department of Health
and Environment report outlining premature birth rates in the state has highlighted specific, at-risk populations,” said Jennifer Robinson, state director of communications for the Kansas March of Dimes. “The March of Dimes mission is to give all Kansas babies a stronger, healthier start in life. We have made great strides in reducing the premature birth rate, but there is still work to be done.”
Health insurance options are available outside open enrollment Circumstances could allow for sign-up before Nov. 1 According to the Kansas Health Institute, more than 96,000 Kansans signed up for health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace, established by the Affordable Care Act (ACA), before the 2015 deadline. Although marketplace enrollment is currently closed and will reopen Nov. 1, other health insurance options and some exceptions for people to enroll in the marketplace exist, said Roberta Riportella, Kansas Health Foundation professor at Kansas State University. She outlined a list of
options. Health Insurance Marketplace Those who experience a qualifying life event could be eligible for special enrollment in the marketplace during the closed period. Qualifying events could include changing a job, moving out of state, losing insurance, getting married or divorced, losing a spouse, retiring or adding a child. Individuals with a qualifying life event have 60 days after the event to sign up for insurance through the marketplace. Website enrollment is only available during the open enrollment period, so these people need to call the marketplace at 800-318-2596 to apply.
Have insurance or pay a penalty
Everyone, with a few exemptions, must have health insurance, or be subject to a penalty fee. Those who are uninsured for tax year 2015 will be faced with a fine of two percent of the amount of their modified adjusted gross annual household income over a set amount of approximately $10,000. For tax year 2016, the penalty will be 2.5 percent. “The penalty calculation is a bit confusing, but know it will cost families more than they perhaps anticipate if they choose to go without insurance,” said Roberta Riportella, a professor of community health through K-State Extension. Even if people pay the fee, they still will not have any health insurance coverage and will be responsible for 100 percent of the cost of any medical care they receive. The marketplace will reopen from Nov. 1 to Jan. 31, 2016. On Jan. 1, health care coverage would begin or renew for those who have enrolled and usually begins a month later for those who
sign up after Jan. 1. Those whose household incomes less than 400 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL), which is $80,360 for a family of three, can get help paying (See HEALTH on page 15)
Skin cancer rates on the rise in Ks.
A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that melanoma rates doubled between 1982 and 2011 in the U.S. In Kansas, the malignant melanoma rates increased significantly during the past decade from 16.3 cases per 100,000 people in 2000 to 23.4 cases in 2011. More than 700 cases of malignant melanoma were diagnosed among Kansans in 2011.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. and melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer. More than 90 percent of melanoma skin cancers are due to skin cell damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) recommends taking steps to protect against UV exposure. •Use sunscreen with
sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher with both UVA and UVB protection. •Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going in the sun and then once every two hours when you are outdoors or after swimming, sweating or toweling off. •Stay in the shade, especially during midday hours. •Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade your face, head, ears and neck.
•Wear sunglasses. •Avoid indoor tanning. Reducing sunburns is a priority of the Kansas Cancer Prevention and Control Plan. “Ultraviolet rays, whether directly from the sun or from a tanning bed, cause DNA damage which greatly increases cancer risk,” said Dr. Gary Doolittle, medical oncologist and chair of the Kansas Cancer Partnership.
ers. “I guess it’s time to lick our wounds and move on,” Rick Cagan, executive director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Kansas, said of his organization, which saw its grant funding reduced. Cagan said this session
included a couple notable successes, including a bill to allow tax-exempt savings accounts for young Kansans with disabilities. He said another bill that strengthens prohibitions on seclusion and restraint in schools was “a shining success” that will help stu(See GOALS on page 15)
Equine therapy helps young people with relationships
In June of 2013, Compass Behavioral Health’s Kid Crew partnered with Miles of Smiles to create a therapeutic riding program for children facing a number of social and emotional difficulties. Sarah Kennington, a Compass employee Compass Corner Meagan Collins and therapeutic ridKid Crew coordinator ing instructor, utilizes Compass Behavioral Health horses in her work with young children. Many of the children who attend her riding program have been exposed to trauma or neglect at some point in their lives. Through the use of horses, Sara is able to help children begin to heal, trust and build relationships. Sara encourages the children she works with to observe the horses and note different ways in which the large animals are similar to humans. Building relationships with horses consists primarily of groundwork built on partnership - not coercion, appeasement or submission. Every principle that applies to building a relationship with a horse transfers to the development of healthy human relationships. As children learn to build relationships with the horses, they learn to develop relationship skills that will help them in developing and improving relationships in their own lives. Some of the children Sarah works with do not feel safe or comfortable in human relationships. For them, initially engaging and bonding with a horse may come easier and feel safer. Equine therapy can help individuals develop empathy, identify their emotions, improve coping skills, and gain a sense of accomplishment and self confidence. Sarah teaches the children she works with to identify and name emotions, to utilize self regulation skills and problem solving skills. This type of therapy offers a number of benefits to individuals struggling with social and emotional issues. As animals of prey, horses exist within a state of constant hyper arousal. This hypersensitivity allows a horse to sense changes in human moods and emotions. A horse’s behavior will reflect the current mood and emotions of the individual working with it. The horse provides instant feedback regarding an individual’s current emotional state. This aids the children Sarah works with in recognizing their emotions and learning to effectively manage those emotions. Sarah states, “the horses act as a mirror for the children.” One child I talked with rides a horse named Snoopy. She takes pride in helping saddle her horse and taking care of him. One of her favorite things is cooling the horse off with water, because of the sounds he makes in appreciation. (See EQUINE on page 17)
The Scott County Record • Page 15 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Poll: Americans say drug costs ‘unreasonable’ Nearly three in four Americans say the costs of prescription drugs are “unreasonable” - and most blame drugmakers for those prices, according to a poll released this week. The survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation found 74 percent of those taking prescription drugs say the costs are unreasonable, as do 72 percent
Goals dents in “the whole range of disability groups.” “That probably would be categorized as historic,” Cagan said. “It’s been a campaign by disability advocates for years.” But for the most part, the 2015 session saw incremental progress or none at all on the issues public health advocates hold most dear. Medicaid Expansion After three years, proponents of Medicaid expansion finally got a public hearing on the issue - and they were prepared. In more than 150 pieces of testimony, health care, business and religious
Health for their health insurance premiums. If their incomes are less than 250 percent of the FPL, or $50,225 for a family of three, they might also get help paying for out-of-pocket health care costs. Most people who have work-based insurance are not eligible for tax credits or cost sharing. The ACA tries to keep people in work-based insurance if it is affordable and adequate. Affordable means the cost of an individual policy, not a family policy, is less than 9.5 percent of total household income. Adequate means the plan pays, on average, 60 per-
of those not taking such drugs. The poll builds on the results of an earlier Kaiser survey in April that identified high drug costs as the public’s top health care priority for Congress and the president. Drug costs have gained attention in the past year in part as a result of controversies surrounding Sovaldi and other new hepatitis C drugs, which
can cure most cases of the deadly liver disease, but at a price of $84,000 for a 12-week treatment. The high cost has strained Medicaid and Medicare budgets and left private insurers scrambling. Half the public say they take prescription drugs. More than three quarters of those say they are easy to afford, with only one in five saying they have difficulty paying for them.
the cost of marketing (54 percent). About 10 percent of respondents also blame insurance companies, saying they require enrollees to shoulder too great a share of drug costs. The survey also found most Americans are still not paying attention to the latest challenge to the Affordable Care Act in a case called King v. Burwell.
The Supreme Court is expected to decide this month whether to cut off government subsidies to millions of people in about three dozen states - including Kansas - that rely on a federal insurance marketplace rather than a state-based marketplace. About 72 percent of respondents say they have heard little or nothing about the case.
its, which would have cost 115 Kansas hospitals approximately $70 million. M e a n w h i l e , Brownback’s office warned that without tax increases, he might be forced to balance the budget with across-theboard cuts. Included in those threatened cuts was Budget Issues As the Legislature a reduction in Medicaid dragged through nearly a provider reimbursements. month of overtime, hospitals suddenly found them- Tobacco Taxes Brownback’s proposal selves battling a couple of unexpected budget-bal- to increase the state’s cigancing proposals. arette tax from 79 cents Some legislators look- per pack to $2.29 per ing at ways to close a pack was one of his early $400 million gap sug- answers to the budget crigested ending sales tax sis. But that number was a exemptions for nonprof-
non-starter for many legislators, and Brownback never pushed it aggressively. That left the lobbying work to a broad coalition of public health advocates, who said the tax would cause about 25,000 smokers to quit and another 25,000 kids to never take up the destructive habit. They say the approved cigarette tax hike of 50 cents per pack will have far less effect on smoking rates. “The tobacco tax is a gain but a modest one,” said Shannon Cotsoradis, president and CEO of Kansas Action for Children. “I think we all hoped for more.”
But about a quarter of respondents said they or a family member have not filled a prescription in the past year, while 18 percent have cut pills in half or skipped doses to save money. More than three-quarters of the public cited drug company profits as the No. 1 reason for the high costs, followed by the expense of medical research (64 percent) and
(continued from page 14)
leaders made the case for expansion as both the fiscally sound and humanely compassionate thing to do. The group was headlined by Robert Moser, a doctor who until a few months earlier had been Brownback’s secretary of health and environment. It was an extraordinary hearing, but in the end it was just a hearing. Cagan said his group also remains committed to continuing the Medicaid expansion fight. He said Kansans with mental illness often are uninsured and need treatment for other chronic conditions as well as their mental health. Expansion could be an
even heavier lift next year. It will be an election year for all legislators, including a number of Republican senators who ousted more moderate predecessors in part on a promise to shield Kansans from President Barack Obama’s health care reforms. Next year the legislature would be considering Medicaid expansion for 2017, which is the first year the program would require some state money. Previously it has been fully federally funded, but in 2017 the states will be required to pick up five percent of the cost of expanded coverage. That amounts to about
$40 million in Kansas. That would be offset because more people enrolled in KanCare would mean the state would get more money from an HMO privilege fee and Medicaid’s prescription drug rebate program.
(continued from page 14)
cent of all medical costs It provides insurance for low-income individuals in a given year. who are over 65, under 18 or disabled. Employer Insurance Children and pregnant Insurance through a job stays the same unless the women might be eligiemployer decides to make ble for KanCare if their changes, which can occur household incomes are less than 247 percent of at any time. Losing job-based insur- the FPL. ance, or having it become unaffordable or inad- Other Options Anyone already equate according to the definitions above, quali- insured through a public fies a person to sign up for program does not need to a plan in the marketplace make insurance changes. if done within 60 days of Public programs include Medicare, TRICARE, the change or loss. Veterans Affairs (VA) or KanCare the Indian Health Service KanCare is the Kansas (IHS). Adults age 65 and Medicaid program for U.S. citizens and law- older have the Medicare fully present immigrants. health insurance option.
Certain younger people with disabilities and people with end-stage renal disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease), will continue to get their health insurance through this federal program. Riportella said they will continue to need supplemental and Part D (prescription drug) coverage plans, which they can get at www.medicare.gov, not www.healthcare.gov. TRICARE (http:// www.tricare.mil) is a U.S. Department of Defense health care program for eligible members of the military services and their families.
Pastime at Park Lane Sunday afternoon Church services were led by the Church of the Nazarene. Residents played pitch and dominoes on Monday afternoon. Game helpers were Joy Barnett, Madeline Murphy, Gary and Janet Goodman, Dorothy King, Hugh McDaniel and Mandy Barnett. Residents played Wii bowling on Monday evening. Pastor Bob Artz led Bible study on Tuesday morning. Doris Riner played the piano. Mary and Russel Webster led Bible study on Tuesday evening. Rev. Warren Prochnow led Lutheran Bible study on Wednesday morning. Residents played bingo on Wednesday afternoon.
5 honored with June birthdays
Park Lane hosted the June birthday party on last Thursday afternoon. Guests of honor were Verlene Mohler, George Cramer, Vera Cox, Arlene Taylor and Donna Strong. The Over 50 Chorus led a group sing-a-long for the entertainment. Chorus members were Madeline Murphy, Neva Jacobus and Dora Mae Bowman. Everyone enjoyed chocolate cake and punch.
Decorate visors on craft day
The Immanuel Baptist Church hosted crafts on Tuesday afternoon. Residents decorated visors. Church volunteers were Joy Barnett, Chelsea Rose, Sue Barber and Mandy Barnett. Bev Nuckolls furnished cookies. Game helpers were Madeline Murphy and Barbara Dickhut. Residents played cards on Wednesday evening. Residents played trivia games on Thursday evening.
A watermelon feed was held on Friday afternoon. Rev. Warren Prochnow led Lutheran services on Friday afternoon. D’Ann Markel played the piano on Saturday afternoon.
The Scott County Record • Page 16 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Dottie Fouquet was visited by Jon and Anne Crane and Mark Fouquet. Cecile Billings was visited by Larry Billings, Delinda Dunagan and Linda Dunagan. Nella Funk was visited by Margie Stevens; Julie, Dale and Brooklin Fletcher; Judy Kitch, Kim Smith, Mary Lou Oeser and Karen Harms. Emogene Harp was visited by Alicia Harp, Nancy Holt and Rick Harp. Geraldine Graves was visited by Alonna Mantzke and Melissa Batterton. Bonnie Pickett was visited by Gloria Wright, Larry and Philene Pickett, Margie Stevens and Kim Smith. Albert Dean was visited by Nancy Holt, Mary Lou Oeser and Karen Harms.
Deaths
Lorena Turley was visited by Shelby Salinas, Neta Wheeler, Mary Lou Oeser, Karen Harms and Rex Turley. Vivian Kreiser was visited by Sharon Lock, Sage Wilkerson, and Dennis and Kai Wilkerson. Clifford Dearden was visited by Kirk and Janet Ottaway and Jude Hileman, all from Hays. Herb Graves was visited by Tina Turley. Lucille Dirks was visited by Dale and Vicki Dirks. Arlene Beaton was visited by Margie Stevens. Visiting with Boots Haxton during the past week were Tony Jasnoch and Jessica Roit, North Platte, Nebr.; Melissa Jasnoch and Rod and Kathy Haxton.
Lowell Rudolph was visited by LuAnn Buehler, Kathleen Moore, Chuck Kirk, Larry and Lonnie Knobbe, Pat Rudolph and Tom Moore. Corinne Dean was visited by Margie Stevens, Dale Fletcher, Julie Fletcher, Brooklin Ayers, Judy Kitch, Ron Hess, Kim Smith, Karen Harms and Mary Lou Oeser. James Still and Mike Leach were visited by Linda Dunagan and Rev. Don Martin from St. Luke’s Church. LaVera King was visited by Velda Riddiough, Gloria Gough, Carol Latham and Kylan Stroud. Pat Lawrence was visited by Bob and Marilyn Waters. Jim Jeffery was visited by Libbie Joles and Jimalene Haddon.
Sr. Citizen Lunch Menu
Mary Margaret Moore
Mary Margaret Moore, 92, a long-time Albion, Mich., resident, died Friday evening, June 5, 2015, in Marshall, Mich. Mary Margaret was born April 10, 1923, in Wellington, the older daughter of Allan C. and Harriet S. (Deewall) Felt. She graduated from Wellington High School in 1941 and from the University of Kansas in 1945. She married W. Keith Moore on July 2, 1944, days after he was commissioned as an ensign in the U.S. Navy. After he was released from active duty in 1945, the couple resided in Winfield while Keith completed his undergraduate education, then in Lawrence where he completed graduate studies at the University of Kansas. In 1952, they and their first three children moved to Albion where Keith joined the faculty at Albion College. Mary Margaret and Keith resided in Albion until advancing age prompted their move to Maplewood in Marshall in 2011. He died in July 2014, just days after the couple’s 70th wedding anniversary. Mary Margaret applied her considerable organizational abilities to the raising of her and Keith’s family of five, as well as numerous civic and charitable causes. She was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church and active in the American Association of University Women, the United Methodist Women, the Albion College Faculty Women’s League, the PEO Sisterhood, the Albion Community Arts Program, the Albion Public Library board and the Albion Philanthropic Women. She was also a member of Gamma Phi Beta sorority. She loved to travel and
by Jason Storm
planned trips in detail. She and Keith traveled throughout the lower 48 states. They also traveled in Europe and she visited the Middle East. For most of her adult life, she and Keith, and their children when younger, returned to Western Kansas each summer to oversee work on the family farm near Modoc. She was an excellent cook and baker, and imparted those skills to her children. She was an accomplished seamstress and an avid reader. Mary Margaret was a dedicated correspondent until very recently, writing several letters and cards daily to a wide array of friends, relatives and acquaintances. She is survived by three sons and their wives, David (Allie), Albion, Donel (Polly) and Tim (Pati Scobey), all of Concord, Mich.; one sister, Barbara A. Welton, Fountain Valley, Calif.; seven grandchildren, Caitlin Moore, Ithaca, N.Y., Gaben Moore, Madison, Wisc., Tim Moore, San Antonio, Tex., Jameson Root, Lafayette, Ind., Rosa Moore, Hays, Haven Moore, Kansas City, Mo., and Carly Moore, Brooklyn, N.Y.; and six great-grandchildren. Two daughters, Marianne and Sarah, died in 1988 and 2012. Sarah’s husband, Matthew Root, Pullman, Wash., survives. A memorial service is planned for Sat., July 25, 11:00 a.m., in Wesley Chapel at the First United Methodist Church, Albion, with a luncheon to follow in the church’s Tennant Hall. Memorial contributions may be made to the Albion First United Methodist Church or the W. Keith Moore Endowed Scholarship at Albion College.
Joseph John ‘Joe’ Stottmann
Joseph John “Joe” Stottmann, 82, died June 13, 2015, at Elm Haven West Nursing Home, Parsons. H e was born on Aug. 14, 1932, in Sterl i n g , Okla., the son Joe Stottmann of Herman M. and Ida (Schulte) Stottmann. Joe graduated from Anadarko (Okla.) High School. He farmed prior to serving his country from 1953-55 in the U.S. Army. Upon his honorable discharge, he moved to Parsons where he began working at the MKT Railroad. On Nov. 12, 1955, he married Charlotte A. “Charlene” Habiger at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Parsons. In 1957, they moved to Kansas City where he worked for Manor Bakery before returning to Parsons in 1963. Upon his return to Parsons, Joe continued to work at the railroad as a locomotive engineer until his retirement. During that time, he was also engaged in farming and custom haying. He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Parsons, where he served as Eucharistic minister, lector and sang in the Gregorian chant choir. Joe dedicated his life to the Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. In 1998, Joe was named “Knight of the Year” and in 1991 his family was awarded the Wichita Diocesan “Family of the Year.” He enjoyed playing cards and was a mem-
ber of numerous bowling teams for over 30 years. Joe especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Survivors include: his wife, Parsons; two sons, Michael J. Stottmann, and wife, Darlene, Topeka, and David R. Stottmann, and special friend, Tracy Morris, Parsons; five daughters, Arlene C. Thiessen, and husband, Doug, Beloit, Janice A. Williams, Kansas City, Mo., Brenda K. Davis, and husband, Kevin, Scott City, Cynthia J. Jones, and husband, Douglas, Scammon, and Linda M. Roland, and husband, Donald, Hutchinson; two brothers, Bernard H. Stottmann, Anadarko, Okla., and Herman J. Stottmann, Lawton, Okla.; three sisters, Sister Agnes Stottmann, St. Louis, Mo., Lucy Bruehl, Cashmere, Wash., and Lydia Foote, Oklahoma City, Okla.; 17 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Mary Hayden and Anna Kobza. Rosary was held June 18 led by the 4th degree Knights of Columbus at the Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, Parsons. Funeral Mass will be held Fri., June 19, 10:00 a.m., at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Parsons. Burial will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Memorials may be given to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church or Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in care of Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, Box 374, Parsons, Ks. 67357. Online condolences may be left at www.forbeshoffman.com.
Week of June 22-26 Monday: Mexican chicken, green beans, tortilla chips, blueberry crisp. Tuesday: Tuna salad, deli fixins, confetti cottage cheese, whole wheat bread, cinnamon apple slices. Wednesday: Ham and beans or stew, tossed salad, cornbread, strawberries and pears. Thursday: Grilled chicken, gravy, sweet potato fries, corn, whole wheat roll, fruit mix (mandarin oranges and marshmellows). Friday: Barbeque beef, potato salad, copper penny salad, fruit cocktail. meals are $3.25 • call 872-3501
The Scott County Record • Page 17 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Maximum retirement benefit could hit $3,501
Deaths Margaret J. Lee
Margaret J. Lee, 93, died June 14, 2015, at her home in Scott City. S h e was born on May 30, 1922, in Scott City, the daughter of Clar- Margaret Lee ence W. and Rosa (Been) Dickhut. She attended Scott Community High School and Kansas State University. Margaret served in the United States Navy Hospital Corps at Terminal Island, Calif. On May 26, 1945, she married Kenneth R. Lee at Wee Kirk of the O’Heather in Long Beach, Calif. He died Nov. 8, 1982. Together, Margaret and Kenneth owned and operated Lusterite Cleaners for 18 years. She also worked as the office manager for the Scott City Clinic. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, CWF and El
Quartelejo Study Club, all of Scott City, and the Alpha Xi Delta Sorority, Manhattan. Survivors include: two sons, Greg Lee, Dallas, Tex., and Richard Lee, Yorba Linda, Calif.; three daughters, Sharilyn Wilken, Modoc/Dallas, Tex., Mary Berning, Scott City, and Nancy Engquist, Omaha, Nebr.; six grandchildren and 13 greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Wendell Dickhut. Funeral service was held June 18 at the First Christian Church, Scott City, with Rev. Scott Wagner and Steve Payne presiding. Interment was at the Scott County Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the First Christian Church or St. Catherine Hospice, both in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home, 401 S. Washington St., Scott City, Ks. 67871.
Rebecca ‘Becky’ Teeter
Rebecca “Becky” Teeter, 60, died June 14, 2015, at her home in Ulysses. S h e was born on Aug. 4, 1954, in Garden City, the daughter of Albert Becky Teeter “Shorty” and Shirley Jane (Gerstberger) Kuriyama. Becky was raised in Ulysses and graduated from Ulysses High School in 1972. She moved to Johnson in 1976 and back to Ulysses in 2012. On Sept. 16, 1972, she married Monty Jay Teeter in Ulysses. She was the secretarytreasurer of Teeter Irrigation for 38 years. Becky was a former member of the First United Methodist Church, Johnson, where she was active as a Sunday school teacher, sang with the Rainbow Rappers, children’s church director, and served on the administration and Pastor Parish Council. She was a member of the Noname’ Society, Johnson, the Oasis Church, Ulysses, a board member of Great Plains Christian Radio Station, and played many years of softball. Becky was a public speaker for Silver Boxes based on the book by Florence Littauer.
Equine
Survivors include: her husband, Ulysses; one son, John Teeter, and wife, Cassie, Ulysses; one daughter, Whitney Berglund, and husband, Brian, Ulysses; mother, Shirley Kuriyama, Amarillo, Tex.; two sisters, Cindy Kuriyama, Amarillo, Tex., and Nancy Laurent, Dimmitt, Tex.; four brothers, Stan Kuriyama, Granby, Colo., Kevin Kuriyama, Plainview, Tex., Kurt Kuriyama, Guymon, Okla., and Kelly Kuriyama, Houston, Tex., along with their families; and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father. Funeral service will be held Mon., June 22, 5:00 p.m., at the Grant County Civic Center Walker Auditorium, Ulysses, with Rev. Kris Humphrey and Rev. Neil Blair officiating. Interment will follow at the Ulysses Cemetery. Immediately following there will be a catered meal at the Civic Center. Friends may call on Sunday from 2:00-8:00 p.m. at Garnand Funeral Home, Ulysses. Memorial contributions may be given to the Oasis Church Building Fund or M&B Teeter Family Charitable Foundation in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave, Ulysses, Ks. 67880.
Q) What is the maximum Social Security retirement benefit? A) The maximum benefit depends on the age you retire. For example, if you retire at full retirement age in 2015, your maximum monthly benefit would be $2,663. However, if you retire at age 62 in 2015, your maximum monthly benefit would be only $2,025. If you retire at age 70 in 2015, your maximum monthly benefit would be $3,501. To get a better idea of what your benefit might be, visit our online Retirement Estimator at www.socialsecurity.gov/ retire/estimator.html.
Social Security Q and A * * * Q) How do I appeal a decision on my application for disability benefits? A) When we make a decision on your application, we’ll send you a letter explaining our decision. If you don’t agree with our decision, you can ask us to look at your case again, or appeal it. You must appeal within 60 days from the date you get our decision letter. You can:
Sarah only works with one child at a time, so they have her undivided attention. While working with horses, individuals learn to be present in the moment, remain focused and attentive, and to listen to the horse and to others. Equine assisted therapy is beneficial to children and adults with a number of different emotional, physical and cognitive difficulties. It is also being utilized to treat Gulf War and Afghanistan veterans returning with PTSD. For more information on the therapeutic riding program give Sarah a call at 620-276-7689 or send her an email at skennington@compassbh.org. Meagan Collins, LMSW, is the Kid Crew coordinator with Compass Behavioral Health in Scott City
requirements to get Social Security disability benefits? A) To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, you must have worked long enough in jobs covered by Social Security (usually 10 years). You must also have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s strict definition of disability. An adult is considered disabled under SSA rules if he or she has a medical condition, or combination of medical conditions, that are expected to last for at least one year or result in death, and that prevent the performance of any type of work.
Attend the Church of Your Choice
Be the Man of God You are Called to be “Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and endurance.” (Titus 2:2) As we prepare to celebrate Father’s Day this Sunday, I am reminded of the role men are to play in the spiritual life of their families and the church. God calls men to be the spiritual leader in the home and the example for their family in attending and participating in the life of the church. Too many times those things have been left to the women exclusively. The tendency has been to do things to attract the children to Sunday School and church in hopes the whole family will be involved. The reality is if the man of the house makes his spiritual life a priority, leads his family in devotion to Christ and
readily participates in Sunday School and worship on a regular basis, his family is right there with him. This is not to diminish the role women play in the spiritual life of the family and congregation. It is a call for men to be an active role model for their family. Men have a great responsibility to show their families the priority faith has in their lives. Too often when life gets busy, the religious portion of our lives takes a back seat to everything else. The spiritual truth is when you make your relationship with God a priority, then everything else will be seen in the right perspective. “Seek first God’s kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33) Happy Father’s Day!!
Pastor Jon Tuttle Prairie View Church of the Brethren, Friend Scott City Assembly of God
Prairie View Church of the Brethren
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
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 • Tuesday breakfast at 6:30 a.m. Held at Precision Ag Bldg. west of Shallow Water Wednesday Bible Study, 7:00 p.m., at the church
St. Joseph Catholic Church
Holy Cross Lutheran 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.
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.
Pence Community Church
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
1398 S. US83 - Scott City - 872-2264
Kyle Evans, Senior Pastor Bob Artz, Associate Pastor
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
(continued from page 14)
•File a disability appeal online with our new, improved process and electronically provide documents to support your request, even if you live outside of the United States; or •Visit your local Social Security office. For more information, call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. To learn more about Social Security’s disability programs, visit the website at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability. * * * Q) How do I know if I meet the eligibility
Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m.
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.
First Christian Church
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
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.
Franklin Koehn: 872-2048 Charles Nightengale: 872-3056 Sunday School Worship Service: 10:00 a.m. Sunday Evening Service: 7:00 p.m.
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The Scott County Record • Page 18 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Call 872-2090 today!
The Scott County Record Professional Directory
Per Week
There’s no better way to reach your potential customers in Scott County and the surrounding areas.
Walker Plumbing, Inc.
Agriculture
Preconditioning and Growing
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
• 45 Years Experience • Managed and owned by full-time DVM • 2,000 Head capacity Office - 872-5150 • Scott City Stuart Doornbos Home - 872-2775 Cell - 874-0951
423 S. Mesquite Rd. • Scott City • 872-2130
Construction/Home Repair
Sager’s Pump Service • Irrigation • Domestic • Windmills • Submersibles
Cell: 874-4486 • Office 872-2101
ELLIS AG SERVICES • Custom Manure Conditioning • Hauling and Spreading • Custom Swathing and Baling • Rounds-Net or Twine • Gyp and Sand Sales • Custom Harvesting Call Brittan Ellis • 620-874-5160
Automotive
Custom Steel Buildings, LLC All steel and metal building system 26 GA R-Panel and 4" R 14 insulation standard
We can build your building to meet whatever specs you may have. Call today for your free quote.
Brandon Dirks • 620-874-5083 Justin Koehn • 620-214-3550
RT Plumbing Rex Turley, Master Plumber
Residental and Commercial Plumbing Water Systems, water lines, sewer cleaning faucets and fixtures, garbage diposals and more
Marienthal, Ks.
620-909-5014 (H) • 620-874-4128 (C)
SPENCER PEST CONTROL
CHAMBLESS ROOFING Residential
All Types of Roofing
Commercial
Cedar Shake and Shingle Specialists Return to Craftsmanship
Attention to Detail and Quality Guaranteed
RESIDENTIAL – COMMERCIAL Termite Baiting Systems • Rodents Weed Control • Structural Insects Termite Control Box 258, Scott City • (620) 872-2870
620-872-2679 • 1-800-401-2683
Dirks Earthmoving Co. Precision Land Forming of terraces and waterways; feed lot pens and ponds; building site preparation; lazer equipped
Richard Dirks • Scott City, Ks. (Home) 872-3057 • 877-872-3057 (Cell) 872-1793
Gary Miller
Millrod’s
Rental Equipment Pre-owned Cars and Trucks Windshield Repair/Replacement
201 Main, Scott City millrods@wbsnet.org
Phone: 620-872-5655 Cell: 620-874-1057 Fax: 620-872-7210
Medical
Landscaping • Lawn/Trees
Berning Tree Service David Berning • Marienthal
620-379-4430
Tree Trimming and Removal Hedge and Evergreen Trimming Stump Removal
Fully Insured
Contact:
SCOT AYTES • 874-1646
Red
Specializing in
all coatings t Paint i or any other color
Paint inside and out residential, commercial, and industrial. Free estimates and 16 plus years of experience.
PC Painting, Inc. Paul Cramer 620-290-2410 620-872-8910 www.pcpaintinginc.com
Pro Ex II
Over 20 Years Experience
Professional Extermination Commercial & Residential
• Termites • Rodents • Soil Sterilization • Pre Treats • Lawn Care • Fly Parasites
John Kropp, Owner • Scott City 874-2023 (cell) • 872-3400 (office) • prox2@live.com
Charles Purma II D.D.S. P.A. General Dentistry, Cosmetics, and Insurance Accepted
We welcome new patients. 324 N. Main • Scott City • 872-2389 Residence 872-5933
Pro Health Chiropractic Wellness Center (Scott City Chiropractic) “TLC”... Technology Lead Chiropractic
Dr. James Yager 110 W. 4th St. • Scott City • 872-2310 Toll Free: 800-203-9606
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The Scott County Record • Page 19 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Call 872-2090 today!
Per Week
Professional Directory Continued
Horizon Health
Services
For your home medical supply and equipment needs! We service and repair all that we sell. 1602 S. Main • Scott City • 872-2232 Toll Free : 1-866-672-2232
Berning Auction “Don’t Trust Your Auction to Just Anyone”
For all your auction needs call:
(620) 375-4130
Dr. Jeffrey A. Heyd
Russell Berning Box Q • Leoti
Optometrist 20/20 Optometry
Treatment of Ocular Disease • Glaucoma Detection Children’s Vision • Glasses • Contact Lenses 106 W. 4th • Scott City • 872-2020 • Emergencies: 214-1462
Sandy Cauthon RN
Bolen Enterprises Prairie Dog Control
1101 S. Main, Scott City 620-874-1813
Call me to schedule your Myofascial Release
Sports/Outdoors Truck Driving KANSAS HUNTING land wanted. Earn thousands on your land by leasing the hunting rights. Free evaluation and info packet. Liability coverage included. The experts at Base Camp Leasing have been bringing landowners and hunters together since 1999. Email: info@basecampleasing. com. Call 866-309-1507. BaseCampLeasing.com.
For Sale ALL NEW. Happy Jack DuraSpot. Kills and repels fleas, ticks and larvae. Repels mites, lice and mosquitoes. Contains Nylar IGR. Orschlen Farm & Home. www.happyjackinc.com.
Education
Complete family eye center!
Scott City Myofascial Release
Kansas Classifieds Ad Network
The classified ads below are appearing in 147 Kansas newspapers with a total circulation of 500,000 the classified display ads appear in 142 Kansas newspapers with a total circulation of 457,000. KCAN line ad is $300 for up to 25 words and $12 each additional word. A 2x2 display ad is $800 per insertion and a 2x4 display ad is $1,650 per insertion. To find out more, contact The Scott County Record at 872-2090.
•34 years experience •Bonded/Licensed
Bob Bolen 785-821-0042 • Fax 785-852-4275
ES N JOLUB S B C Driving M LA
WANT A CAREER operating heavy equipment? Bulldozers, backhoes, excavators. Handson training. Certifications offered. National average $18-22 hr. Lifetime job placement. VA benefits eligible. 1-866-362-6497. ––––––––––––––––––––– NEED CLASS A CDL training? Start a career in trucking today. Swift Academies offer PTDI certified courses and offer best-in-class training. New Academy classes weekly. No money down or credit check. Certified mentors ready and available. Paid (while training with mentor). Regional and dedicated opportunities. Great career path. Excellent benefits package. Please call: (602) 714-9455.
BUTLER TRANSPORT. Your partner in excellence. Drivers needed. Great hometime. $650 sign-on bonus. All miles paid. 1-800-528-7825. www.butlertransport.com. ––––––––––––––––––––– NO EXPERIENCE? Some or lots of experience? Let’s talk. We support every driver, every day, every mile. Call Central Refrigerated Home (888) 670-0392. www. CentralTruckDrivingJobs. com. ––––––––––––––––––––– DRIVER TRAINEES needed. Paid CDL training. Become a new driver for Stevens Transport. No experience needed. Earn $800 per week. Stevens will cover all costs. 1-888528-8864. drive4stevens. com.
Opportunities PROFITABLE KANSAS businesses for sale by owners. Many types, sizes, locations, terms. $25K to $15M. Other states available. www.BizSale.com. Call 1-800-617-4204
Is your subscription paid?
for the PURPLE!
Retail
Jeremy • 620-397-1638 Stefanie • 620-397-8075
Gene’s Appliance Over 200 appliances in stock! COMPARE OUR PRICES!
We have Reverse Osmosis units in stock. Remember us for parts in stock for all brands of all appliances. Sales and Service Days • Mon. - Sat. Deliveries • Mon.-Sat.
Largest Frigidaire appliance dealer in Western Ks. 508 Madison • Scott City • 872-3686
Networktronic, Inc.
Computer Sales, Service and Repair Custom computers! Networking solutions! Mon. - Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. 402 S. Main, Scott City • 872-1300
Brent Rogers
Sales Consultant b.rogers@officesolutionsinc.biz
Office (620) 276-3131 Toll Free 1-800-794-9052 Cell (620) 874-0014 Fax (620) 276-8876 1007 N. 8th, Garden City, KS 67846 www.officesolutionsinc.biz
Northend Disposal A garbologist company. Scott City • 872-1223 • 1-800-303-3371
All Under One Roof
Revcom Electronics
Your RadioShack Dealer Two-way Radio Sales & Service Locally owned and operated since 1990
1104 Main • Scott City • 872-2625
Dining Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
www.reganjewelers.com
412 N. Main • Garden City • 620-275-5142 Support your hometown merchants who back your school and community activities throughout the year!
The Scott County Record • Page 20 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Youngsters who have reached 100 to 1,000 book milestones in the Scott County Library’s “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” reading program are:
Greysen York 100
Avery Eggleston 100
Grant Young 200
Devon Dreiling 600
Drew Birney 600
Dash Campos 900
Emme Wishon 900
Sebastian Nelson 1,000
USD 466 Summer Menu
scholarship winner
Week of June 22-26 Lunch Monday: Chicken fajitas, lettuce and tomatoes, fruit. Tuesday: Steak strips, cheesy potatoes, hot vegetable, fruit. Wednesday: Super nachos, refried beans, bread stick, fruit. Thursday: Cheesy fish, macaroni and cheese, peas, fruit. Friday: Hamburger on a bun, lettuce, tomato and pickle, baby carrots, fruit.
Ness City Senior Kaitlyn Dinges is presented a $1,000 check for winning the Kansas Masonic Scholarship. Kaitlyn will be attending Fort Hays State in the fall. Making the presentation are (from left) Terry Phillips, Anthem Lodge, No. 284, Scott City; Richard Lee Norton, grandfather; Kaitlyn Dinges; Neal Gamble, Anthem Lodge No. 284; Brad Slagle, Barney Lodge No. 279, Dighton; and Steve Schmitt, Anthem Lodge No. 284.
West is basic combat JONES CLUB training grad in S. Carolina LAMBS
Army Pvt. Daniel P. West has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises. West is the son of Sarah Pitzer, Leoti. He is a 2012 graduate of Wichita County High School.
Jeremy • 620-397-1638 Stefanie • 620-397-8075 113 W. Hwy 4, Healy, Ks bustn2kick@st-tel.net
Harvest these savings! Buy of the Week Wednesday - Tuesday, June 17 - 23
Buy any 2 Heartland Foods Signature 4-pk Hamburger Patties
Get 1
8-pk of Ball Park Hamburger Buns
Free
1314 S. Main, Scott City 872-5854 www.heartlandfoodsstores.com
Sports The Scott County Record
At the beach Youngsters enjoyed great weather and the beach for castle building on Saturday • Page 28
www.scottcountyrecord.com
Thursday, June 18, 2015
Page 21
Scott City boys third in Goddard tourney The emphasis for the Scott Community High School boy’s basketball team this summer has been court time . . . lots of court time. The Beavers have been getting just that with 16 games during a seven-day span that concluded with a third place finish in the Goddard tournament. In addition, SCHS head coach Glenn O’Neil squeezed in a five-day camp, broken into two sessions, over the past two
weeks. It’s been a grueling stretch that saw Scott City posting a 14-2 record which included a 3-1 record in league play at Garden City on Monday nights. For next year’s varsity players, camp was primarily an opportunity to prepare the team for summer league and tournament play. “It’s more team-oriented for the older boys,” notes O’Neil. “We break things down more for the younger kids. It takes
them awhile to pick up on the terminology and understand what they’re supposed to do on offense and defense.” After sweeping through the tournament field at Oakley a week earlier, Scott City faced a tougher test at Goddard where they posted a 7-1 record over three days. This was a 9-10 grade tournament, based on last year’s enrollment, so Scott City played the weekend without Dylan Hutchins, Drake McRae and Draven McRae.
They came out of pool play undefeated with wins over I35 Fusion (71-68 OT), Colorado Raptors (55-45), Oklahoma Defenders (39-33), Hesston (3515), Victory Ministry (52-45) out of Missouri and McPherson JV (52-31). The Fusion were champions of a tournament in Salina the previous weekend. Scott City held a 15 point lead with seven minutes remaining before the Fusion was able to rally and force overtime.
“This team has the ability to go on a big scoring run. Unfortunately, they have the inability to stop one when it’s happening to them,” said O’Neil. The score was knotted 61-61 at the end of regulation before Scott City was able to pull away in overtime to win the tournament opener. Bo Hess nearly had a double-double in leading the Beavers with 19 points and (See TOURNEY on page 23)
Elevenyear-old Bethany Prochnow of the Scott City Stars competes in the 100m freestyle at the Leoti meet on Saturday. (Record Photo)
Scott City Stars win 27 golds at Leoti With a dominating day in the relays, the Scott City Stars claimed 27 gold medals in Western Kansas Swim Club competition at Leoti on Saturday. The Stars captured 10 of those golds in the relays, with seven earned by the Scott City girls. Hope Wiechman (9-10 years) was the only multiple winner in
the girl’s division for Scott City. She captured top honors in the 100m freestyle (1:36.22) and the 50m breaststroke (57.01). Megan Trout (8-under) won the 25m freestyle (23.93) and in the same age group Avery Lewis was the 25m backstroke (27.76) champion. Alli Brunswig (11-12 years) captured first in the 50m butterfly (45.29).
Once they hit the relays, the Scott City girls were nearly unstoppable. In the 8-years and under division they won the 100m freestyle (1:45.4) and the 100m medley (2:14.46). Members of the freestyle group were Hailey Shapland, Savannah Lewis, Kinleigh Wren and Megan Trout. On the medley relay were Wren, Finley Edwards,
Ella Frank and Trout. Scott City swept three of the four age divisions in the 200m freestyle, winning the 9-10 years (2:52.64); 11-12 years (2:33.91) and the 13-14 years (2:20.85). Members of each relay were: 9-10: Kiley Wren, Kennedy Wasinger, Brinlie Stevens and Wiechman. 11-12: Clare Hawkins,
it takes teamwork
Five-year-old Aiden Banuelos, Garden City, gets some assistance from his father, Miguel, as he casts a line into the water during the OK Kids Day held at Lake Scott last Saturday. Youngsters were able to fish, target shoot on a BB gun range and even learn how to yoga. There were more than 40 youngsters from throughout the area attending the event which was sponsored by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. (Record Photo)
Kennedy Holstein, Alli Patton and Brunswig. 13-14: Emily Parkinson, Grace Hutton, Piper Wasinger and Shelby Patton. Two more golds came in the 200m medley relay. Winners were: 11-12 (3:03.35): Brunswig, Hawkins, Holstein and A. Patton. (See STARS on page 25)
SCMS is searching for its ‘identity’ We weren’t aware of it until just recently, but Scott City Middle School is having an identity crisis. T h a t was part of the explaRod n a t i o n Haxton, offered sports editor during the recent board of education meeting as to why SCMS needs to rid itself of that darn Bluejay mascot. Which left us only further confused (which sometimes isn’t all that difficult to do). First of all, what is the identity issue that’s having a psychological impact on our middle school students? And, secondly, how would we be resolving this identity issue by having students share the same mascot as the high school? Normally, now that the vote about the mascot is over and done with, we’d drop the matter. But if there is some kind of an identity issue, then perhaps it needs to be addressed - or it needs to be shared with the rest of us so we can correct the problem. It was further explained to us that part of the “identity” issue has been with SCMS athletic uni(See IDENTITY on page 25)
The Scott County Record • Page 22 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Outdoors in Kansas by Steve Gilliland
The tales within that old shed
Today, it’s nothing but a dilapidated pile of old lumber in the middle of a wheat field; so far off the road in fact that it takes binoculars to even see it. We locals don’t even notice it anymore and neither would anyone else were it not for the few trees and old windmill nearby. It was an old shed with a small grainery in one corner; the kind where you would shovel loose grain into the room and keep adding boards in the doorway as the level of the grain rose. There was once a house trailer that was the first home of some friends of ours when they first married. But to us the place will always be known as the vulture nursery. Several years ago I was told that a pair of turkey vultures had nested in the old shed for years. We slipped back there that evening and sure enough, in the very corner of the little grainery room was a female vulture firmly planted over two eggs. Turkey vultures are most necessary to our environment and are part of the dead-animal-cleanup crew. They are the most amazing birds to watch as they soar effortlessly on the rising thermals, and they possess a digestive system so sophisticated and iron-clad that they can eat even diseased carcasses without harm. Yet, in spite of all their merits, they are contenders for the homeliest creature ever made. With an old board we were able to gingerly lift one corner of mom vulture that night to see the two eggs beneath her, and she didn’t seem to mind much. Baby (See SHED on page 24)
SC girls sweep pool play in Gold Crown camp Scott City was undefeated in pool play and finished fourth in the Gold Crown basketball camp held last weekend in Denver. Six girls made the trip with coach Shelby Crawford. They included Scott Community High School players Kiara Yager, Paige Winderlin, Nancy Wiebe, Kaitlyn Roberts and Haley Allen, along with eighth grader Madison Shapland. “We didn’t have a bench and that was pretty evident by the fifth
and sixth games,” says Crawford.” With elite teams from throughout the Midwest competing in the top two divisions, the SCHS girls took part in the fourth division of the five division tournament. “Given that we were playing teams from the Denver area, we still saw some pretty tough competition,” says Crawford. Pool play results were: •Scott City defeated Cherokee Trail II (39-22). Roberts had a huge offensive game, hitting
5-of-6 treys and finishing with 20 points while Yager added 12. •Scott City defeated Hope Christian (35-30). Yager led the team with 18 points. “It was the best game these girls have played,” said Crawford. “Hope Christian was a good team which made this probably our most impressive win over the weekend.” It was also the only loss for Hope Christian. •A pair of last second free throws by Wiebe gave Scott City a 28-27
hoops campers Nearly 30 middle school boys and girls took part in a summer basketball camp conducted by Brett and Trey O’Neil this week. (Right) Lindie Rumford drives past Brooke Sherwood. (Below) Hunter Yager tries to outrun Victor Martinez (center) and Parker Gooden during a fastbreak opportunity. (Record Photos)
win over D’Evelyn (Denver). After leading for most of the game, Scott City fell behind with just :15 remaining. Wiebe came up with a huge steal and was fouled on a breakaway attempt. She hit both free throws with :05 left in the game. Winderlin led the team with nine points. •Scott City defeated Chatfield, 35-17. Wiebe led Scott City with 12 points and Shapland contributed six. •In the final round
of pool play, Scott City slipped by Shepherd (Mont.), 24-21. “It was probably our ugliest game of the weekend,” said Coach Crawford. “We couldn’t hit anything from the outside. Roberts led the team with 12 points and the win put Scott City into the championship bracket. Bracket Play In the first round of bracket play, Scott City fell to Sheridan (Wyo.), 35-28. (See CAMP on page 26)
Saturday is final day for USD 466 athletic physicals Athletes in the Scott County school district are reminded that Sat., June 20, is the final day they can get athletic physicals at the Scott City Clinic at a discounted price of $25. This fee will not be billed to health insurance and must be paid at the time of the physical. Anyone needing assistance with this fee should contact the clinic prior to getting the physical. Last date and time for physicals is: •Sat., June 20, 9:0010:00 a.m. Schools are providing the physical and authorization forms each student will need at the time of the exam. It is the responsibility of the parents/student to bring these. Beginning with the 2015-16 school year, any SCHS student enrolled in strength training, recreational sports, or fitness class will be required to have a physical and proof of insurance on file in the high school office.
County Plat Maps • Finney • Gove • Greeley • Kearney • Lane • Logan • Ness • Scott • Wichita • Wallace Pick them up today at:
406 Main • Scott City 620 872-2090
Relay for Life • Sat., June 20 • starting at 5:00 p.m. • Patton Park Music • Silent Auction • Games • Dance and Music Performances
Tourney
The Scott County Record • Page 23 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
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nine rebounds. He was joined in double figures by Justin Faurot (14), Drew Duff (11) and Jess Drohman (10). Hess matched that 19 point performance in the next two games. Jenkins was the only other player to reach double figures with 12 points against the Raptors.
ing four treys, in the win over the Defenders. Hess and Faurot added 15 and 11 points, respectively. In Sunday’s opening game - the final round of pool play - three Scott City players were in double figures. Hess was just shy of a double-double with 12 points and nine boards while Jenkins had 15 points (three Balanced Offense treys) and Duff drilled four Balanced scoring was a treys for all 12 of his points. theme for Scott City in their final four games. Fall to Oz “That’s always been true of Scott City’s only loss of the this group. They don’t have a weekend may well have been standout player,” noted O’Neil. their best game. They were “If they’re going to be suc- tied with eventual tournament cessful they have to play ball champion Kansas Oz Elite with together. They have to make four minutes remaining before good cuts to the basket and be the Oz pulled away for a 73-66 precise with their passing. win. Scott City had led 32-31 at “Right now, we don’t have the half. the luxury of having a player “That was probably our best who can challenge one-on-one game. I was pretty happy with and consistently take the ball to the way we played,” O’Neil the basket.” says. “Kyle (Cure) picked up The ability to spread the ball his game and he became more around worked well for Scott of a factor in the paint. We City against the Defenders and need Kyle to become a scorMcPherson as they had three ing threat. Until he does, teams players in double-figures in aren’t going to respect our post each contest. play and they’ll focus on taking Jenkins, a guard, led the away the cuts by our guards.” team with 16 points, includAfter scoring nine points in
Underclassmen at Scott Community High School go through drills during the second session of the high school basketball camp held last week. (Record Photo)
two previous games, Cure finally finished in double figures with 11 points. Hess and Duff (four treys) led the Beavers with 19 points each while Faurot added 13. Scott City followed that with their biggest comeback of the weekend, erasing a 38-23 halftime deficit to defeat Pratt,
59-52. Jenkins, who knocked down four treys, finished with 18 points while Duff added 10. A balanced attack saw Faurot and Cure with eight points each.
over the weekend. “I think they had their eyes opened a little,” O’Neil says. “They went up against two AAU teams who are pretty good. But they played well. They made some strides.” Newton Tournament Scott City will be in tournaThe incoming freshmen were ment action this weekend at 2-3 at the Newton tournament Hays.
O’Neil settles on hoops at Central Missouri Brett and Trey O’Neil spent their high school years as teammates on two of Scott Community High School’s state championship basketball teams. Now they get to be friendly rivals. After two years as a starting point guard for Dodge City Community College, Brett O’Neil has finally decided to complete his college career at Central Missouri State University, Warrensburg. He will be competing in the
Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association which also includes Ft. Hays State University where his younger brother, Trey, will be playing basketball next season. Several factors contributed to the decision to play at CMSU. “It’s closer to home so my parents will still be able to watch some games,” noted the 20-year-old. “And they’re a young team. “They will give me the opportunity to compete and get playing time. That’s all I can ask.”
Open to all children and teens 1-18 No registration or identiication is required
Starting Tuesday, May 26 Dates: Every Monday - Friday until July 17 (No lunch served July 3) Time: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Location: Scott City Elementary School Lunchroom
The Mules are also going through a transition with a new coaching staff just two years after winning the NCAA Division II national title with a 30-5 record. They followed with a 25-7 mark last year. New head coach Doug Karleskint has compiled a 90-34 record in four seasons as the head coach at Arkansas Tech. His Wonder Boy teams captured four straight conference championships and made four appearances in the NCAA
Tournament, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2012. O’Neil had an opportunity to meet the head assistant coach face-to-face for the first time a week ago when he made the trip to Scott City. After two years of junior college ball, O’Neil says he’s ready for the change. “I don’t see this as necessarily a step up because there are some pretty darn good players at the juco level,” noted O’Neil. “But the opportunity to play at Dodge has prepared me.”
Proud to Support the Scott City Community!
Contact: Kathy Eaton • 620-872-7605
www.pioncomm.net
1-800-308-7536
The Scott County Record • Page 24 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Too many questions with K-State Kansas State’s football team is going through summer workouts in preparation for the 2015 season. The Wildcats lost many key players from last year’s ball club and that tempers the optimism. by K - S t a t e ’s Mac three noncon- Stevenson ference games are at home against South Dakota (Sept. 5), on the road with UTSA (Sept. 12), and at home against Louisiana Tech (Sept. 19). South Dakota is a gimme, but the other two won’t be that easy. Coach Snyder’s Big 12 schedule is favorable, with five home games and four on the road. And one of the four road games is at Kansas, which the Wildcats should win. KSU’s greatest strength on offense is the line. Snyder returns four starters with center B.J. Finney the only player lost to graduation. Quarterback, running back, and receivers are unproven positions that require a wait-and-see for any assessment. The Wildcats lost some outstanding defensive players, but they return a number of talented youngsters who are ready to take their turn. Snyder almost always comes up with a betterthan-expected defense and this season should be no exception. Kansas State will have another competitive and entertaining football team. However, it’s doubtful that the Wildcats will be as formidable as they were a year ago. That prediction could change significantly if Snyder’s quarterback is an overachiever. Enjoy the Moment Fans of the Kansas City Royals should savor every moment of this season and 2016 because things are about to change. MLB’s owners have painted themselves into a corner. The player salaries are so ridiculously high that teams like KC can’t enter the bidding war for their top players. First up is left fielder Alex Gordon who is the best defensive left fielder in MLB and a capable hitter. Gordon can become a free agent after this season. (See QUESTIONS on page 27)
Shed vultures begin life in the most humble surroundings imaginable. The old shed was on its last leg even back then. The only way inside was to squeeze through a small opening in one end, then clamor over and around stacks of old lumber to get to the grainery in the opposite end, all the while listening to the partially-collapsed roof above you creak and groan as you went. The nest was flat on
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the floor amidst mud and vulture droppings from past years. We paid regular visits to the old shed that year and watched the process unfold. Soon there were two pure-white balls of fluff that soon grew into two feisty vulture chicks that stood back-to-back and hissed at us each time we were able to view them without mom around. Then one day the nest was empty, but as we searched the sky, suddenly there they
were roosting on top of the old windmill outside watching us from their new and better vantage point, while in the sky and always close, soared mom and dad. No vultures have nested in the old shed now for years. Its total collapse left the grainery in the far corner accessible from all sides, exposed to predators and the elements and I don’t think they feel secure there anymore. If only
the old shed could talk and tell us about all the grain that was unloaded there, shovelby-shovel over the years. And about all the kids that played within its walls and climbed in its loft. And yes, even about all the turkey vultures born and raised there. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors! Steve can be contacted by email at stevegilliland@idkcom.net
High school girls x-country now 5K for regional, state In recent years there has been ongoing discussion regarding a potential change in distance for KSHSAA high school girls cross country. Surveys of Kansas coaches and athletic directors have reflected increasing support to increase the girls’ race distance from 4K to 5K in KSHSAA postseason competition. During the October 2014 KSHSAA regional administrator meetings, this was a topic of conversation in part, due to a letter from the U.S. Office of Civil Rights notifying KSHSAA of a complaint OCR received. As the 2014-15 school year progressed, the discussion continued and the KSHSAA received notice of increasing support from athletic directors and cross country coaches, to increase the girls distance from 4K to 5K for postseason competition. Given these considerations, at the June meeting, the KSHSAA executive board voted to increase the distance for regional and state meet girls races to 5K, effective with the 2015 season. KSHSAA member schools and leagues may establish the distance they choose when conducting senior high girls invitational or league competition, including sub-varsity races for girls. This change for high school girls competition does not change junior high girls cross country. Beginning with the 2015 season all KSHSAA regional and state girls meets will run the 5K distance in both girls’ and boys’ competition.
join the fun with the Scott City junior golf program You can still sign-up for summer golf camp Practices are every Tuesday July 7 thru August 4 • 6:00 p.m. at the Scott Community Golf Course
registration fee is $50 Make checks payable to: Kirby Garrison c/o Junior Golf Camp. Drop off registration form at 1005 Santa Fe or the Scott Recreation Commission office
for more information contact Kirby Garrison at scottcommunityjuniorgolf@hotmail.com
The Scott County Record • Page 25 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Identity forms that haven’t been updated and replaced over the years. Apparently, they haven’t been on a replacement schedule as exists at the high school. If that’s the case, then let’s fix it. While we appreciate the fact that Extension Agent Carol Ann Crouch and her sewing girls give of their time to patch football uniforms, there even-
Stars
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tually comes a time when uniforms are beyond fixing with a needle and thread. That seems easy enough to correct. Yes, it will cost some money, but it’s the right thing to do if we expect our athletes to compete at their best and to take pride in representing SCMS. There were a couple of other suggestions which were quickly put to rest.
A proponent of the mascot change said the district needs to replace the Beavers license tags with Bluejay tags on vehicles that transport SCMS students. And, by the way, this individual suggested that one of the tour buses used to transport athletes needed to be painted in the SCMS colors. Are we serious? “We could have them travel in the same yellow
bus that we used when I was in junior high,” suggested board member Lynnette Robinson. The point being, travel to Hugoton or Goodland in a yellow route bus and any issues with the color scheme will soon disappear . . . as if there was ever a problem to begin with. Let’s move on to more serious things.
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Picking up a pair of 13-14 (2:52.17): wins was Griffin Edwards Parkinson, Patton, (8-under) in the 25, Wasinger and Hutton. breaststroke (28.42) and the 100m individual medNoll Wins 3 Golds ley (2:12.95). Avery Noll (9-10 Racing to wins in the years) was a triple winner 25m freestyle (20.83) and in the boy’s division. He the 50m freestyle (50.07) claimed championships in was Jackson Rumford the 50m freestyle (38.74), (8-under). 100m freestyle (1:30.89) Kaden Wren (13-14) and the 50m backstroke was also a double gold medalist in the 100m (53.07).
freestyle (1:11.43) and the 100m breaststroke ((1:36). Adding individual golds were Waylon Ricker (8-under) in the 100m freestyle (1:54.52); Sawyer Stevens (11-12 years) in the 50m freestyle (33.33); and Eric Shapland (11-12 years) in the 50m breaststroke (47.65).
Scott City added wins in three relays: 8-under: 100m freestyle. Griffin Edwards, Waylon Ricker, Alex Rodriguez and Jackson Rumford; and the 100m medley relay, Rodriguez, Edwards, Rumford and Ricker. 9-10 years: 200m freestyle: Houston Frank, Brandon Smyth, Wyatt Ricker, Avry Noll.
The Scott County Record • Page 26 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
wings of an eagle
Rohn Shellenberger (far right) and his teammates celebrate after Shellenberger chipped in for an eagle on the second hole during the MASH golf tournament at the Scott Community Golf Course on Saturday. Two holes later, Shellenberger putted from off the green for another eagle. (Record Photo)
this one didn’t get away
Tannon York (right), 8, of Deerfield, proudly shows off the sunfish he caught during OK Kids Day at Lake Scott on Saturday. “I heard him say he hadn’t caught a fish before so I showed him where I’d caught two of mine,” said Randy Juarez, who is smiling next to York. “I’ve been fishing before, but this is the first one I ever caught,” confirmed York. (Record Photo)
Camp “By that time, the fact we only had six girls and couldn’t substitute was starting to have an effect. The girls were physically and mentally exhausted,” Crawford says. Scott City closed out the tournament with a 2718 loss to Natrona (Wyo.). “Everyone we played against was physical, which is what you expect
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from summer ball. We played pretty physical with them until the fifth game when we began to wear down,” Crawford says. “Overall, I was real pleased with our defensive rotations. We did a good job of having a hand in the shooter’s face in most every game. I was also pleased with our of-
fensive spacing. We got so many backdoor cuts from our offensive sets.” Crawford was particularly pleased with the play of his girls under the basket. “We were undersized in every game, but the girls were battling hard for rebounds and getting good position,” he adds.
Location: Lake Scott State Park
FEES
Start Times
10k
10K Walk Run Roll – 7:00 a.m.
Pre-Registration $35 Race Day $45
5K Walk Run Roll – 7:10 a.m.
5K
One Mile Fun Run - 7:20 a.m.
Pre-Registration $35 Race Day $45 Fun Run Pre-Registration $20 Race Day $30
For questions please call: 620-872-3790 Or email: julie@scottcf.org
REGISTER NOW! www.walkrunrollscottcity.com Proceeds benefit the Scott Community Walking Trail
The Scott County Record • Page 27 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Scott City Stars Western Ks. Swim Club June 13, 2015 • at Leoti Team scores: Golden Belt Swim 964, Scott City Stars 654, Holcomb 188, Dodge City 159, Hays 79, Wichita County 70, Lakin 22. Girl’s Division 25m Freestyle 8-years and under: Megan Trout, 1st, 23.93; Kinleigh Wren, 2nd, 25.03. 50m Freestyle 9-10 years: Hope Wiechman, 2nd, 40.52; Kiley Wren, 3rd, 42.13; Kennedy Wasinger, 6th, 45.25. 11-12 years: Alli Brunswig, 1st, 37.09; Kennedy Holstein, 3rd, 39.00; Clare Hawkins, 5th, 39.77. 13-14 years: Piper Wasinger, 3rd, 33.99; Shelby Patton, 5th, 35.02. 15-years and over: Cami Patton 3rd, 31.88; Reagan Smyth, 4th, 32.30. 100m Freestyle 9-10 years: Hope Wiechman, 1st, 1:36.22; Brinlie Stevens, 4th, 1:44.14; Kennedy Wasinger, 5th, 1:45.89. 11-12 years: Alli Brunswig, 2nd, 1:31.41; Alli Patton, 3rd, 1:34.32; Alivia Noll, 5th, 1:42.11. 13-14 years: Shelby Patton, 2nd, 1:18.11; Piper Wasinger, 3rd, 1:19.55; Emily Parkinson, 5th, 1:24.77. 15-years and over: Reagan Smyth, 2nd, 1:09.81; Cami Patton, 3rd, 1:11.92. 200m Freestyle 11-12 years: Clare Hawkins, 2nd, 3:12.75; Alli Patton, 4th, 3:32.87; Paige Prewit, 5th, 3:59.47. 13-14 years: Shelby Patton, 3rd, 2:56.64; Grace Hutton, 4th, 3:19.67. 400m Freestyle 15-years and over: Reagan Smyth, 3rd, 5:57.80; Hallie Wiechman, 5th, 6:17.67 25m Backstroke 8-years and under: Avery Lewis, 1st, 27.76; Kinleigh Wren, 4th, 29.54. 50m Backstroke 11-12 years: Clare Hawkins, 5th, 49.72. 25m Breaststroke 8-years and under: Kinleigh Wren, 2nd, 31.87; Ella Frank, 4th, 36.90; Megan Trout, 6th, 38.36. 50m Breaststroke 9-10 years: Hope Wiechman, 1st, 57.01; Kiley Wren, 3rd, 1:02.65; Kennedy Wasinger, 5th, 1:06.18. 11-12 years: Clare Hawkins, 2nd, 47.11; Alli Brunswig, 3rd, 51.92; Alli Patton, 4th, 52.79; Alivia Noll, 5th, 53.92. 100m Breaststroke 11-14 years: Piper Wasinger, 4th, 1:41.88; Shelby Patton, 6th, 1:44.30. 15-years and over: Kylee Trout, 2nd, 1:38.62; Cami Patton, 3rd, 1:39.70; Alexis Hoeme, 6th, 1:46.34. 25m Butterfly 8-years and under: Kinleigh Wren, 2nd, 31.04; Megan Trout, 3rd, 36.95; Hailey Shapland, 4th, 41.19; Amelia Ramsey, 5th, 42.68; Finley Edwards, 6th, 45.69.
50m Butterfly 11-12 years: Alli Brunswig, 1st, 45.29; Kennedy Holstein, 4th, 49.39. 100m Butterfly 15-years and over: Reagan Smyth, 2nd, 1:24.32; Ashley Prewit, 5th, 1:37.12. 100m Individual Medley 8-years and under: Megan Trout, 3rd, 2:47.71. 9-10 years: Hope Wiechman, 2nd, 1:52.77; Lana Rodriguez, 5th, 2:08.55. 200m Individual Medley 11-12 years: Kennedy Holstein, 3rd, 3:57.23. 13-14 years: Piper Wasinger, 3rd, 3:25.29. 100m Freestyle Relay 8-years and under: Hailey Shapland, Savannah Lewis, Kinleigh Wren, Megan Trout, 1st, 1:45.40; Kendall Gentry, Kayden Holstein, Kami Winderlin, Avery Lewis, 4th, 2:10.40; Ameila Ramsey, Ella Frank, Lily Lightner, Finley Edwards, 5th, 2:14.83. 200m Freestyle Relay 9-10 years: Kiley Wren, Kennedy Wasinger, Brinlie Stevens, Hope Wiechman, 1st, 2:52.64. 11-12 years: Clare Hawkins, Kennedy Holstein, Alli Patton, Alli Brunswig, 1st, 2:33.91; Bethany Prochnow, Alivia Noll, Paige Prewit, Claire Rumford, 2nd, 3:04.93. 13-14 years: Emily Parkinson, Grace Hutton, Piper Wasinger, Shelby Patton, 1st, 2:20.85. 15-years and over: Kylee Trout, Hallie Wiechman, Cami Patton, Reagan Smyth, 2nd, 2:13.10; Alexis Hoeme, Makayla Amerine, Brooke Hoeme, Ashley Prewit, 5th, 2:31.32. 100m Medley Relay 8-years and under: Kinleigh Wren, Finley Edwards, Ella Frank, Megan Trout, 1st, 2:14.46; Savannah Lewis, Hailey Shapland, Amelia Ramsey, Avery Lewis, 3rd, 2:32.07. 200m Medley Relay 9-10 years: Lana Rodriguez, Kiley Wren, Hope Wiechman, Brinlie Stevens, 2nd, 3:38.73. 11-12 years: Alli Brunswig, Clare Hawkins, Kennedy Holstein, Alli Patton, 1st, 3:03.35; Bethany Prochnow, Alivia Noll, Paige Prewit, Claire Rumford, 3rd, 3:56.03. 13-14 years: Emily Parkinson, Shelby Patton, Piper Wasinger, Grace Hutton, 1st, 2:52.17. 15-years and over: Hallie Wiechman, Kylee Trout, Reagan Smyth, Cami Patton, 2nd, 2:40.28. Boy’s Division 25m Freestyle 8-years and under: Jackson Rumford, 1st, 20.83; Griffin Edwards, 2nd, 21.09; Waylon Ricker, 3rd, 22.62. 50m Freestyle 8-years and under: Jackson Rumford, 1st, 50.07; Griffin Edwards, 3rd, 50.83; Alex Rodriguez, 4th, 58.42. 9-10 years: Avry Noll, 1st, 38.74; Gus Hawkins, 3rd, 42.17; Houston Frank, 5th,
45.90. 11-12 years: Sawyer Stevens, 1st, 33.33; Landon Trout, 3rd, 37.90. 13-14 years: Kaden Wren, 2nd, 30.39. 100m Freestyle 8-years and under: Waylon Ricker, 1st, 1:54.52; Jack Lightner, 2nd, 2:17.00; Kasten Wren, 3rd, 2:29.35. 9-10 years: Avry Noll, 1st, 1:30.89; Gus Hawkins, 2nd, 1:37.51. 11-12 years: Sawyer Stevens, 2nd, 1:20.94; Landon Trout, 5th, 1:30.96. 13-14 years: Kaden Wren, 1st, 1:11.43. 25m Backstroke 8-years and under: Alex Rodiguez, 4th, 32.07. 50m Backstroke 9-10 years: Avry Noll, 1st, 53.07; Gus Hawkins, 3rd, 56.57. 11-12 years: Sawyer Stevens, 4th, 47.45. 100m Backstroke 11-14 years: Kaden Wren, 5th, 1:39.42. 25m Breaststroke 8-years and under: Griffin Edwards, 1st, 28.42; Jack Lightner, 5th, 39.07. 50m Breaststroke 9-10 years: Brandon Smyth, 6th, 1:10.25. 11-12 years: Eric Shapland, 1st, 47.65. 100m Breaststroke 11-14 years: Kaden Wren, 1st, 1:36.00. 25m Butterfly 8-years and under: Waylon Ricker, 2nd, 39.36; Kasten Wren, 4th, 47.75. 50m Butterfly 9-10 years: Houston Frank, 2nd, 1:02.50; Gus Hawkins, 6th, 1:18.37. 11-12 years: Sawyer Stevens, 2nd, 46.98; Carter Gooden, 5th, 51.87. 100m Individual Medley 8-years and under: Griffin Edwards, 1st, 2:12.95. 9-10 years: Houston Frank, 4th, 2:15.38; Brandon Smyth, 6th, 2:31.04. 200m Individual Medley 11-12 years: Landon Trout, 2nd, 4:04.24. 100m Freestyle Relay 8 years and under: Griffin Edwards, Waylon Ricker, Alex Rodriguez, Jackson Rumford, 1st, 1:34.29. 200m Freestyle Relay 9-10 years: Houston Frank, Brandon Smyth, Wyatt Ricker, Avry Noll, 1st, 3:04.86. 11-12 years: Landon Trout, Carter Gooden, Eric Shapland, Sawyer Stevens, 2nd, 2:36.83. 100m Medley Relay 8-years and under: Alex Rodriguez, Griffin Edwards, Jackson Rumford, Waylon Ricker, 1st, 1:54.90. 200m Medley Relay 9-10 years: Avry Noll, Brandon Smyth, Houston Frank, Wyatt Ricker, 2nd, 4:01.17; Tanner Gooden, Aiden Lewis, Gus Hawkins, Breven Vulgamore, 3rd, 4:33.99. 11-12 years: Landon Trout, Eric Shapland, Carter Gooden, Sawyer Stevens, 2nd, 3:06.62.
Questions It will take something like $80-90 million over four or five years to keep him. KC’s owner, David Glass, isn’t going to pay that and who can blame him? No baseball player is worth $20 million or more for one year. To become consistently successful, Kansas City must develop one of the best minor league farm systems in baseball. That’s easier said than done with 30 teams competing. Gordon is just the tip of the iceberg. Lorenzo Cain, Eric Hosmer, Mike Moustakas, and Alcides Escobar are all eligible for free agency after the 2017 season. These are just the key everyday players who will probably be gone following the 2017 season; there are others. MLB owners are in an untenable situation that they are totally responsible for. The game is highly popular and the ticket sales and TV money have made most teams profitable, but how long can it last. Owners cannot afford another strike and the players’ union isn’t going to lower salary demands and that’s where the standoff is. Around and around
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it goes and where it ends getting a head start for the nobody knows. 2015-16 season because of their participation in Change Shot Clock the University Games Several changes have (July 3-14) in Gwangju, been made to the rules in South Korea. Coach Bill college basketball and one Self’s team started pracis noteworthy indeed. The ticing on June 8 to prepare shot clock has been short- for two exhibition games ened from 35 to 30 sec- against Canada’s national onds. That’s going to be team on June 23 and 26 at advantageous to the most the Sprint Center in Kantalented teams. sas City. You wouldn’t think that The Jayhawks are bea change of five seconds coming acquainted with on the shot clock would the international 24-secmake any difference, but ond clock, which will be it will. Teams with the a big help in preparing best athletes will have an them for the new 30-secenhanced advantage be- ond clock in college bascause they have talented ketball. players who can penetrate Self said, “I think any defenses and create their time you force yourself to own shots. play with a short clock, it On defense, the more definitely adds to aggrestalented teams will make siveness and adds to guys it harder for opposing going and making plays teams to get organized on their own. I’m excited and take good shots—that about us experimenting takes time. In the past, underdog as coaches. I’m excited teams could be deliber- about the clock forcing ate on offense and run us to play faster and dothe clock down on each ing some different things possession. Not now. The defensively. I think it’ll be pace of play will be fast- very good for us moving er and the less-talented forward.” Kansas will have an teams will be at an even advantage over their opgreater disadvantage. ponents in early games Exhibition Games this fall because of the KU’s basketball team is preseason practices.
The Scott County Record • Page 28 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
castle building at the beach 26 youngsters took part in the first ever sandcastle building contest held at Lake Scott State Park and sponsored by the Friends of Lake Scott. Division winners were: Sand Fleas 1st: Easton Fink 2nd: Brogan Dirks 3rd: Heidi Gray 4th: Karys Carver 5th: Denton Mullins Sand Hoppers 1st: Ian Fink 2nd: Abby Zabel 3rd: Jose Rodriguez 4th: Allie Streck 5th: Vaughn Streck Sandcastle builders included (top) Abby Zabel, 10, Mullinville; (left) Vaughn Streck, 6, Newton; (bottom right) Brogan Dirks, 3, Scott City; and (bottom left) Ian Fink, 11, Oakley. (Record Photos)
The Scott County Record
Page 29 - Thursday, June 18, 2015
needing a vision
Future still bright for U.S. space program Having been a NASA astronaut and flown on space shuttle missions, Sam Gemar knows first-hand the benefits of the space program. That’s why the former astronaut is disheartened by this nation’s lack of commitment to being No. 1 in space exploration. “I’m going to be very blunt. The space program in this country is in chaos,” said Gemar at the conclusion of the youth aviation camp held at the Spencer Flight and Aviation Center in Scott City last Friday. “We lack a vision.” Gemar says NASA has suffered financial setbacks in recent years as Congress has limited funding for the space program. He felt NASA was delivered a major blow in 2008 when the Orion program was removed from the President’s budget. While the loss of funding has hurt, Gemar says the bigger issue facing the future of the space program in America is the lack of a mission. “When we went to the moon, we had a vision and we had the money to get it done. When we started the shuttle program we had a vision and we had the money,” he says. “We have enough money now, but we don’t have something that the American people can get behind. “It’s not clear to me whether we’re going to Mars, whether we want to establish a base on the moon or whether we’re going to a near asteroid,” he continued. “People don’t do well when they don’t have a solid mission.” A JFK ‘Dream’ Gemar saw what could happen when the nation rallied behind President John F. Kennedy’s goal to put a man on the moon by the end of the 1960s. “It’s pretty remarkable when you think about it. We’d just put a man into space and felt pretty good about that, and then the President announces that we’re going to put a man on the moon,” says Gemar with a grin. “I’ve talked to guys at NASA who were 25- and 26-years-old at the time and they had no idea how they were going to accomplish that goal, yet they figured it out.” Part of it is a willingness to make the investment. While
Jeanene French looks over her shoulder at the 36-star Civil War era flag that was donated to the Museum of the Great Plains, Leoti, and has been restored. (Record Photo)
Sam Gemar, a former astronaut with NASA, was a guest speaker during the youth aviation day at the Spencer Flight and Education Center in Scott City last Friday. (Record Photo)
NASA’s $15 billion budget sounds impressive, it pales in comparison with Walmart’s worldwide sales of $470 billion, or the total economic output of the U.S. which is 15,000 billion dollars. “What we’re doing right now is a very small investment in science, technology and the future,” he points out. But he says the benefits are endless as well as the benefits that people see in their everyday lives. He quickly notes that the miniaturization of the computer and microprocessing technology that we take for granted today was made possible through space exploration. “It was the space program which drove these scientific advances. Today, it’s the entertainment industry because they have the need for high speed graphics and technology along that line.” Ultimately, says Gemar, people must be convinced of the benefits of sending a mission to Mars or to the nearest
asteroid belt. What should that mission be? “I don’t have the answer to that,” replies Gemar. “But I do know that by doing so, we will learn more about ourselves and develop products that will aid mankind in ways that are unimaginable today. It’s just like what we saw happening when we put a man on the moon. “Once we put a stand-alone computer in everybody’s hands, look at the benefit. “And until we actually connected all of those computers through the Internet, that’s when our productivity exploded and we began to do things that only a short time early seemed inconceivable.” Gemar also remains optimistic about the future of NASA. “I think the best days for NASA are still ahead. We haven’t seen the end of NASA,” he emphasizes. “But it’s going to take leadership, vision and hard work.”
Future for Astronauts As for the youngster that dreams of being an astronaut, Gemar encourages them and adds there will always be a need for astronauts in the foreseeable future. “Even if you don’t achieve your ultimate goal of actually getting into space, you will still have the opportunity to visit places and learn more about yourself. “It will mean acquiring an advanced science and engineering degree, it’s going to mean significant experience in technology. You will learn things about the world in which we live, even if you don’t achieve the ultimate dream. What’s the harm in that?” he asks. While he was able to orbit the earth, Gemar has no regrets about not being on the international space station or setting foot on the moon. “Even without getting to the moon, I’ve had a great career,” he says. “I’ve been very fortunate. I’d like to think it’s a combination of hard work, opportu-
nity and a good dose of luck. It takes a divergence of all three.”
A Unique Facility Gemar was also impressed with his first visit to the Spencer Flight and Education Center which was built with donations following the tragic deaths of the Spencer family in an airplane crash. “It was evident that community members had a vision when they turned the tragic deaths of the Spencer family into the unique training and educational facility that exists today,” Gemar points out. “What’s going on in Scott City today is somewhat unique. There are limited opportunities to do these types of things around the country, but this community has embraced aviation and aviation safety. “This center’s contribution to aviation and aviation safety is unparalleled in most communities I’ve visited. This type of facility doesn’t exist across America like one would like to think it does.”
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The Scott County Record
Farm
Page 30 - Thursday, June 18, 2015
Rains delay start to Kansas wheat harvest The winter wheat harvest has gotten off to a soggy start in Kansas. A few spots in southcentral and southeast Kansas had very limited harvest activity last week, including as far north as Salina where at least one farmer was cutting wheat, said Aaron Harries, marketing director for Kansas Wheat. “It’s ready, but I don’t know of any harvest going
ag briefs
Acreage reports are due July 15 The Scott County Farm Service Agency (FSA) reminds producers that July 15 is the deadline to certify 2015 crop acreage. Filing an accurate acreage report for all crops and land uses, including failed acreage and prevented planting acreage, could prevent the loss of eligibility of benefits for USDA programs. Acreage reports on crops covered by NAP are due in the FSA county office by the earlier of July 15 for spring-seeded crops, or 15 calendar days before the onset of grazing or harvest of the specific crop acreage being reported. Producers must certify the crop, variety, crop shares and land use for each field on the acreage report. They can call 8723230 (ext. 2) to make an appointment or to request aerial photos (maps) so they can prepare for and expedite the reporting process.
Corn acres may need to be replanted
Recent rains have put a great deal of Kansas corn acreage at risk of being replanted. With 93 percent of the crop currently in the ground, 44 percent is rated good and four percent is excellent. So far, 79 percent of the crop has emerged, which is behind the 93 percent average. Winter wheat in Kansas is rated 41 percent fair and 28 percent good. Wheat headed was at 98 percent. Coloring was at 59 percent. Sorghum planted was 30 percent, well behind 48 last year and the average of 54 percent. Nine percent has emerged, which is well behind the 25 percent average. Sunflowers planted was 22 percent, behind 34 last year and 35 average. Alfalfa hay first cutting was 12 percent complete, well behind the 82 percent average.
on anywhere today,” Harries said on Monday. That is because heavy rains across much of the state in recent days have brought the fledgling harvest to a screeching halt. About two percent had been harvested in Kansas as of Sunday, the National Agricultural Statistics Service reported Monday. That is about the same amount of wheat that had been cut at this time a
year ago, another harvest plagued by untimely rains. Harvest activity is lagging behind the 18 percent that would be normal for this time. The agency also reported that 20 percent of the wheat in the state was now mature, a figure behind both the 26 percent at this time a year ago and well behind the 40 percent average.
Scott Van Allen is among the handful of Kansas growers to who started cutting his acres last week. He got three good harvest days before a storm system brought 3 inches of rain to his farm near Clearwater in southcentral Kansas. He has cut 500 acres and has nearly 2,000 more acres to go. He credits the plentiful rain in May for making this an expected average,
if not slightly better than average crop this year on his farm. He has been getting what he calls “respectable” yields of between 30 and 49 bushels of wheat per acre out of the first fields he has cut. His test weights have been ranging from 59 to 63 pounds per bushel. The industry threshold for topquality wheat is 60 pounds per bushel. Around the south-
central Kansas town of Kiowa, usually among the first places in the state to cut wheat each year, about seven or eight farmers were able to cut three days last week before the rains came, said Brett Courson, assistant manager at OK Co-op Grain. It will be another day or so before the combines will be able to get back into the fields. (See RAINS on page 31)
Going from pink slime to glue Another PR threat to meat on the horizon? After (partially) recovering from the non- crisis created by idiots slinging around the term ‘pink slime,’ now the industry has another demonization to confront: The use of so-called ‘meat glue.’ Have you heard the term “meat glue” before? Have to admit I hadn’t paid much attention before, but lately several high-profile videos have surfaced (check it out on YouTube) denouncing
Meat of the Matter Dan Murphy
contributing columnist
Drovers CattleNetwork
an ingredient - actually, an enzyme known as transglutaminase - that is used in all kinds of formed and structured meat and poultry products. Not to mention dozens of other applications. The way the phrase is being tossed around is reminiscent of that other corruption, “pink slime,” which demonized a perfectly acceptable protein ingredient also used in formulating products engineered to taste good yet still remain affordable.
Unfortunately, nothing about “meat glue” conjures up a pleasant, enjoyable eating experience. However, we’ll explore that notion further in just a moment, using the very words of the critics themselves. Speaking of which, here is an excerpt from a rant by Greg, who’s the spokesperson for a California-based outfit called Ballistic BBQ: “Meat glue is always going to be totally weird sounding, but we’ve all eaten it before (if you eat at fast food restaurants, at least),” he wrote. “It’s derived from blood and is a clotting agent that allows different types of meat to stick
to each other, hence the name. “You can do a lot of weird, Frankenstein-type experiments with it.” Thanks, Greg. Way to destroy any possibility of people understanding what and why this ingredient is used in product R&D. His video goes on to demonstrate how to make “fake ribeye from beef brisket and cheap choppedup stew meat,” ending up with something he calls a “Frankensteak.” If you bail on the website at this point, you go away thinking that meat processors are once again screwing with the food supply, and that anything (See GLUE on page 36)
Streams disappear with loss of aquifer Western Kansas has lost many of its major perennial streams because farmers have pumped extreme amounts of water from the Ogallala Aquifer. During a water workshop in Manhattan, Jim Butler, geohydrology section chief with the Kansas Geological Survey, put up a slide with a map showing that more than 60 per-
Enrollment open for ARC-PLC
Enrollment has begun for the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs for 2014 and 2015. Enrollment ends Sept. 30. The programs trigger financial protections for producers when market forces cause substantial drops in crop prices or revenues. More than 1.76 million farmers have elected to have ARC or PLC. Previously, 1.7 million producers had enrolled to receive direct payments (the program replaced with ARC and PLC by the 2014 Farm Bill). Nationwide, 96 percent of soybean farms, 91 percent of corn farms, and 66 percent of wheat farms chose to be in ARC. For data about crops and state-by-state program election results visit www.fsa.usda.gov/arcplc. Among commodities in ARC-PLC are barley, canola, large and small chickpeas, corn, grain sorghum, mustard seed, oats, rapeseed, long grain rice, safflower seed, soybeans, sunflower seed and wheat. Upland cotton is no longer a covered commodity.
cent of the aquifer, the state’s major water supply for irrigation, has been depleted. “This pumping has obviously had an impact on the western third of Kansas,” Butler said. “It’s also caused collateral damage on our ecosystem health - especially our perennial streams.” The aquifer lies beneath
eight states including Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas, and is one of the largest groundwater resources in the world. But it’s in trouble because farmers have been over-pumping water to grow crops in semi-arid climates. About 25 percent of the water used in the United States is from the aqui-
Market Report
Weather
Closing prices on June 16, 2015 Bartlett Grain Wheat.................. $ 4.64 White Wheat ....... $ 4.69 Milo .................... $ 3.54 Corn ................... $ 3.66 Soybeans (new crop) $ 8.82
H
L
June 9
96
60
June 10
97
67
June 11
84
61
June 12
69
59
June 13
84
60
June 14
71
65
Scott City Cooperative Wheat.................. $ 4.65 White Wheat ....... $ 4.70 Milo (bu.)............. $ 3.54 Corn.................... $ 3.66 Soybeans ........... $ 8.83 Sunflowers.......... $ 15.75
June 15
82
58
ADM Grain Wheat.................. Milo (bu.)............. Corn.................... Soybeans............ Sunflowers..........
Ag Facts The peach is a member of the rose family and will have a sweet fragrance when ripe.
$ 4.67 $ 3.54 $ 3.72 $ 8.69 $ 16.20
P
.52 .12
Moisture Totals June 2015 Total
0.64 12.30
fer, Butler said. About 95 percent of groundwater pumped in Kansas is used to irrigate crops. Butler said many Western Kansas streams used to be fed by the aquifer because its water table was higher than the streams. But the aquifer’s water table has dropped below the stream beds, three feet or more, and no
longer can supply water to the streams, creating dry beds almost year around. Using photographs of the Arkansas River, which used to be a major Kansas River tributary near Larned, Butler was able to effectively demonstrate the problem. One photo showed what the stream looks like (See STREAMS on page 31)
The Scott County Record • Page 31 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Finding a new ‘normal’ in cattle market
This is a tough call ket price levels has led what they used to be, but life of the December 2014 market dynamics in the John Riley Southern Hemisphere. because the events of the to earlier marketings of contract life. it is safe to say that more Dept. of Ag Economics Beef cattle futures and past 12-18 months of the calves and feeders, which However, the July Oklahoma St. University normal patterns have At the height of the financial crisis most analysts were discussing the validity of a “new normal”. At the time, equity markets - as well as many other markets - were definitely out of kilter and the common rules of thumb and typical patterns no longer existed, thus the reason for these discussions. Today, market norms are still not exactly
returned. The exception today is the agricultural marketing world. Grain markets remain in an awkward state given that nearby old crop prices are below harvest contract prices (typically stored grain is priced higher). Granted, July 2015 corn futures contract prices, for example, stayed above December 2014 corn futures prices through the
2015 contract price has consistently been below upcoming harvest contract months. Similar relative prices have been noticed in soybean markets. Therefore, the only incentive to empty the bins is to make room for the next crop. The reasons for this largely center on the estimates from USDA that show large quantities of grain in storage and
El Nino could lead Streams to wet conditions through winter
(continued from page 30)
Early predictions are that the current El Nino stands a 90 percent chance it will last through fall in the northern Hemisphere while an 85% chance exists it will continue on through winter according to the Climate Prediction Center. Further, the current WKWMP forecast is hedging for Update a strong event compaWalt Geiger rable to the historic El meteorologist Nino’s of 1982-83 and 1997-98. Independent of the drought erasing rainfall we have experienced thus far this late spring and early summer, a strong El Nino should continue to provide enough precipitation to the area over the course of the rest of the year resulting in an abnormally wet 2015. Operations: There was one operational day this week. Operations Day No. 11 One plane was launched at 2.09 p.m. to investigate an isolated area of storms over northern Grant traveling northeast. A second plane was launched at 2:44 p.m. to another storm just north of Scott City that ended up fizzling out rather quickly. A brief period of seeding for hail suppression lasted from 2:44 to 2:51 over southern Kearny. The planes then patrolled storms over southwestern and central Finney before turning for base at 4:10 p.m. Observation Day Two planes were launched at 6:46 p.m. to intercept a supercell thunderstorm traveling southeast out of Colorado towards Kearny County radar indicated substantial hail falling from this cloud along with ground reports of 2.50 inch hail covering the ground just west of Holly Colorado. Upon crossing the Kansas/Colorado border, the supercell collapsed. As a result of storm decay, the planes moved toward southern Hamilton to investigate additional storms there. The planes patrolled Hamilton and a few storms over Stanton before turning for base at 8:55 p.m.
Rains Those early loads to the grain elevator in Kiowa are already showing that wheat crops that were planted late last fall benefited the most from the May rains that eased drought conditions, and were producing better than earlier planted wheat. Farmers bringing grain
today - dry and rocky. “This is a very dispiriting sight,” Butler said. “It’s a tremendous loss to our ecosystem. The decreased well yields are not the only impacts.” Butler said Kansas has three rivers classified as navigable, including the Arkansas River. “Obviously to navigate this, you’ll use the ATV mode,” he said, pointing to the photo. Since 1945, Kansas has been warning farmers that they were depleting the Ogallala, but the heavy irrigation continued despite several studies and task force reports. Gov. Sam Brownback has appointed another task force. The state hopes its recommendations will persuade farmers to reduce water use. Butler said that simple solutions can work. For example, if farmers in southwest Kansas had pumped 22 percent less water over the past couple years by using different techniques such as no-till to grow crops, water levels would have remained stable in the short term. “If we cut back we can buy some time in the system in western Kansas to find solutions,” Butler said. “It’s all about buying time.”
(continued from page 30)
coming into the elevator in Kiowa have reported yields from the upper 30 bushels per acre to as low as 5-10 bushels per acre. Test weights have been running between 52 and 61 pounds per bushel. While the May rains helped salvage the crop just as the heads were fill-
ing out, the rains now at harvest time are hurting wheat quality. Every time it rains on ripened grain, the test weight goes down. “It is going to be muddy now,” Van Allen said. “It is a challenge, but it is not one we haven’t had in the past. We always seem to manage.”
cash prices are also out of line with their “norms”. As prices heated up in the second half of 2014, seasonality went out the window. Since that time, prices have steadied quite a bit, but are still not showing their typical price patterns that have, historically, been in place. This has led many to ask: “When will seasonality return to cattle markets?”
current cattle market is still not at all a common occurrence. Heifer retention has been ramped up since at least mid-2014 which has limited the available feeder volume. Herd rebuilding will likely continue for the short term, especially given the recent rains in much needed areas where pasture capacity is available. Second, the high mar-
will limit off-farm supplies moving forward. Finally, feedlot capacities, while shrunken over the past number of years, still indicate available space. A return to “normal” seasonal patterns does not appear to be on the horizon for calves or feeders through the remainder of 2015 as a result of these reasons. (See CATTLE on page 35)
The Scott County Record
Harvest 2015
Page 32 - Thursday, June 18, 2015
Could bird flu be a 100M bushel corn problem? The U.S. is currently on the tail end of the worst bird flu outbreak in history, with 222 confirmed cases and more than 47 million birds affected across 15 states. USDA expects the outbreak to plateau near 50 million birds later this summer. The 201415 outbreak exceeds the previous 1983 record by more than 30 million birds and has led to disruptions in the supply of eggs, localized interruptions in turkey production, and legitimate concerns
over potential exposure to the bird flu in the broiler population this fall. With respect to feed use of corn, conservative estimates of “one bushel per bird” imply that the bird flu could result in feed and residual use of corn being 50 million bushels less than projected for the current marketing year. A feed consumption level greater than one bushel per bird, combined with a slow rate of flock repopulation, could support a 100 million bushel decline in feed use from
current projections. Absent increased consumption in other categories, such a decline would push the corn carryout closer to the two billion bushel threshold and would continue to pressure old-crop corn prices. For the current marketing year USDA’s World Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) projections of feed and residual use of corn have ranged from a low of 5.25 billion bushels to a high of 5.375 billion bushels. (See BIRD FLU on page 37)
Communicating with custom harvesters critical with forage
Investing in silage harvesting equipment is a major financial commitment. That’s one of the reasons why 50 percent of beef and dairy producers in a recent survey said they relied on custom harvesters to bring in their forages for ensiling. A good relationship with a custom harvester requires clear, achievable agreed goals. To meet these objectives, it’s important to open up the lines of communication well before harvest time. Some of the items that should be discussed include: •Prior to planting, review the acres to be planted, hybrids, field locations, pricing, equipment, personnel and services. There may be adjustments in planting time and hybrid selection that can offer additional flexibility at harvest time.
Some producers may find it helpful to include these items in a written contract. •Define forage quality objectives with both your harvester and nutritionist. This should include specifications for nutritional goals and measurements, e.g. moisture, maturity, particle size, kernel processing and consistency. Who will be responsible for taking forage samples for testing? What are the nutritional goals as defined by the nutritionist? •Select a forage inoculant that will help meet your quality goals. Including a researchproven inoculant can help prevent dry matter (DM) losses, improve aerobic stability or both. •Discuss how to repeat successes and avoid problems of years past.
This can include how to improve timing and flexibility in the event of weather delays or equipment breakdowns. •Define who is responsible for proper shaping, packing and covering of the pile, bunker or silo. For best safety management practice, remember to stack to a maximum height below 15 feet and slopes at a minimum 4:1 run-to-rise ratio. •Review procedures for applying inoculant. Your custom harvester can estimate tons cut per minute and calibrate the inoculant application accordingly. Then, the ensiling team can track the tons of silage harvested versus the packages of inoculant used. This can help ensure the product is being applied according to label directions. In addition, truck drivers can report back
Kansas ranked No. 2 in waterway sediment reduction The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) Division of Conservation and the Kansas Water Office (KWO) have announced that Kansas ranks second in the nation for reducing sediment runoff into waterways and sixth in the nation for reductions in phosphorous and nitrogen, according to the EPA. Through the Kansas
Water Plan and State Water Plan Fund, Kansas has made sediment and nutrient reduction a priority, especially above its water supply reservoirs. Programs at the federal, state and local levels, along with cooperation from landowners, have contributed to this success. Implemented projects include building waterways, terraces, filter strips, conservation crop rotation, cover crops,
streambank stabilization and innovative farming practices such as no-till. For 2014, estimated reductions in sediment and nutrients within targeted areas are as follows: •Nitrogen reduction: 430,768 lbs/year. •Phosphorus: 209,731 lbs/year. •Sediment: 117,838 tons/year. These impairment reduction estimates place Kansas among the top states in the nation.
weights and adjust inoculant application accordingly. •Monitor the delivery rate of chopped forage for target packing time, which is ideally two minutes per ton, but should be no less than one minute per ton. Fill and pack in layers no thicker than six inches. This is critical to success. •After harvest, celebrate successes. It’s too often overlooked when both sides do their job effectively, but a personal touch can cement working relationships for years to come. A good harvest coupled with good ensiling management practices secures top quality feedstuffs, but it takes a team of people working together to achieve the goal. Getting the team on the same page from the beginning can positively impact the bottom line of any operation.
County Plat Maps • Finney • Gove • Greeley • Kearney • Lane • Logan • Ness • Scott • Wichita • Wallace Pick them up today at:
406 Main • Scott City 620 872-2090
The Scott County Record • Page 33 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
KSU discovers temperature’s role in controlling Palmer Amaranth A mystery has been solved by Kansas State University scientists, and as a result agricultural producers struggling to control one of the toughest weeds around will benefit. For several years, agricultural producers and professional agronomists in Kansas had noticed that the effectiveness of a recent class of herbicides in controlling an aggressive pigweed species called Palmer amaranth seemed to depend on temperature. The popular “HPPDinhibitor” class of herbicides would control Palmer amaranth well under cool conditions (less than 80 degrees), but often were less effective as temperatures increased into the upper 80s and into the 90s, said Curtis Thompson, K-State professor and weed management specialist. But why? Were the observations real, or just a coincidence? If real, this phenomenon would have significant implications for spray timing and possibly even crop selection. To answer the question, it was important to discover and explain if indeed any physiological or molecular mechanisms
are involved in such response. K-State scientists have now provided the answer. In a new paper published in the online journal PLOS ONE, K-State assistant professor and weed physiologist Mithila Jugulam and her team have shown what is going on within Palmer amaranth plants at different temperatures and how it influences the effectiveness of HPPDinhibitor herbicides. HPPD-inhibitor herbicides kill plants by blocking the activity of the critical HPPD (4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase)- enzyme. Without a sufficient level of activity of the HPPD enzyme, the plants cannot produce certain compounds they must have to survive. Jugulam and her team tested the level of control of 8- to 12-inch-tall Palmer amaranth when sprayed with mesotrione, one of the most widely used HPPD-inhibitor herbicides, under three temperature schemes: •Low (77 degrees daytime high and 59 degrees nighttime low) •Optimum (90.5 degrees daytime high and 72.5 degrees nighttime low) •Elevated (104 degrees daytime high and 86
degrees nighttime low) They found the efficacy of mesotrione in blocking the HPPD enzyme in Palmer amaranth was decreased when the weed was grown under high temperature stress. The plants survived when they should have died. And by tracking the chemical compound within the plants under different temperature schemes, the K-State scientists were able to explain specifically why this is happening. “In short, when temperatures are very warm the weeds are destroying more of the herbicide internally before the herbicide can injure the plants,” Jugulam said. When temperatures are elevated Palmer amaranth HPPD enzyme activity is increased, making it harder for the HPPD-inhibitor herbicides to block the activity of all the HPPD enzymes in the weed. Both mechanisms are important in determining how effective mesotrione herbicide will be on Palmer amaranth. “This explains why the herbicide in the field is more consistent in controlling Palmer amaranth when applied earlier in the growing season, or when applied in the morning rather than the afternoon
later in the season when afternoon temperatures are high,” Jugulam said. This is what producers and agricultural service providers see from time to time in the field, Thompson said. “In general terms, mesotrione seemed to be a little inconsistent in its effectiveness on Palmer amaranth, and we didn’t know why,” Thompson said. “Mesotrione seemed to be more consistent in controlling Palmer amaranth when used earlier in the season for corn production than when used later in the season for grain sorghum production. We needed to know if we were dealing with herbicide resistance or something else. “Now we know for sure that the temperature at application time is an important factor in the effectiveness of this HPPD inhibitor herbicide on Palmer amaranth, and we can provide a good explanation for why sometimes Palmer amaranth is not controlled. “This is a significant finding for everyone in the field trying to control this weed, which has become an ever greater problem in Kansas,” he added.
Bingo at the Scott County VIP Center • Fri., June 26 • 1:00 p.m.
The Scott County Record • Page 34 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Diversifying farms through animal fiber niche marketing Tom Parker Kansas Farmers Union
The booming popularity of goats, alpacas, sheep and other non-traditional species for livestock production has created new markets and avenues of revenue for producers willing to learn how to integrate and innovate into more diversified operations. One lesser-known but potentially lucrative niche market associated with non-traditional animals is the fiber market, where the wool is processed into skeins, rovings or yarns for the textile industry. “Niche marketing isn’t necessarily easy,” says Sally Brandon, co-owner of Shepherd’s Mill, Kansas’ only fiber processing mill.” Brandon has built a successful career with the fiber industry, opening her store in 2004 in downtown Phillipsburg. The mill employs four full-time, two part-time and two project employees, including her husband, Jay, who also farms. Creating Diversity The animal fiber market can be a viable way for small farms to diversify their product line, she said, though farmers should be aware that it’s more of a succession of small steps, or what she calls “ripples,” rather than
an instant success. “We have a ripple farm,” she said. “You throw out a pebble, you watch the ripples spread.” When she first started marketing fabrics made from processed fibers, the world did not descend upon her family’s farmhouse. She watched cars whizzing by at 65 miles per hour, frustrated that her potential market base was completely oblivious to her presence. After her mother suggested adding a sign for “antiques,” the sound of car brakes was a constant. “That little ripple started a bigger ripple,” she said. “We reached across the state and into Nebraska; a bigger ripple. The mill has grown to 43 states. Now we’re doing something different by branching into the retail industry.” The Right Environment It might seem self-evident, but the quality of the fiber depends on both the quality of the animal and the care it has received. Proper animal husbandry such as providing dry, well-ventilated shelter, clean bedding, protection from predators, the proper nutrition and clean water, are crucial elements in ensuring a healthy animal with healthy fleece. Pastures that are free of stickers, burs and thistles are also important, as
their introduction into the animal’s coat makes processing that much more difficult. “The care you give your animal determines how they grow and perform,” notes Rachael Boyle, Phillips County Extension Agent. “The decisions you make affect their health.” Rare breeds and longwool sheep are popular for their fiber, as are alpacas, llamas, camels, bison, quiviut, yak and various species of goats such as angora or cashmere. Even dog and cat fibers can be processed. “We have a variety of options,” Brandon said. “Everything has a possibility.” The color of the fiber is also important. “Breeders love brown animals, but brown fiber isn’t selling in retail markets,” she said. “Still, color sells. And it doesn’t matter which color, because somebody will like it.” Knowing the customer’s personality is much like knowing their tastes in yarn, Brandon says. “Right now, one of the hottest trends is in yarn with texture. That’s where customers are heading,” she said. “Blends are also popular, and there’s been a big change in the last eight years. At first nobody wanted anything blended into alpaca-it had
to be 100 percent alpaca wool. But there’s no such thing as a perfect fiber; each has its own challenges. Blending can make them a little bit better, and it’s become a huge amount of our business.” It’s also important to know what makes great yarn. Her advice for novices is to hang around specialty yarn shops and talk to both customers and business owners about their favorite yarns and fibers. “Ask questions that you need to know anyway,” she said. “End users are looking for sellers who who have at least a basic knowledge of their products. Talking to them builds relationships and earns trust. That’s what it’s all about. You also gain experience from someone who’s already doing it.” The most successful fiber producers are those who sell finished products as well as processed yarns and rovings, she said, but much of that market lies beyond the immediate area. “You can’t sell all of your fiber locally because we’re in a conservative area,” she said. “The biggest possibility for marketing local products are social media marketing and having an online presence.” (See DIVERSIFY on page 37)
Kansas expands definition of covered farm vehicles Starting July 1, Kansas will offer an expanded definition of covered farm vehicles, CFV, and specific exemptions for the farm vehicles. The change is part of the federal government’s Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act, or MAP-21. The exemption applies to both straight trucks and combination vehicles, and the distance involved depends on the size of the vehicle. For vehicles 26,001 pounds or less, the CFV designation applies anywhere in the United States. The weight in MAP-21 is the greater of the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). A covered farm vehicle is one that is: •Operated by a farmer or rancher, a family member of the farmer or rancher, or an employee of the farmer or rancher •Used to transport agricultural commodities, livestock, machinery or supplies to or from a farm or ranch •Not used for-hire except a tenant hauling the landowners products under a crop-share arrangement, and •Is equipped with a special license plate or other
designation by the state in which the vehicle is registered to allow for identification of the vehicle as a covered farm vehicle by enforcement personnel. For vehicles over 26,001 pounds, the distance limits are anywhere in the registration state or in interstate commerce within 150 air-miles (172.6 statute miles) of the farm or ranch. The form that customers will need to fill out and keep in the cab of the vehicle can be found at http:// www.ksrevenue.org/pdf/tr600.pdf or at kcc.ks.gov. The vehicles must still have a valid license plate and a valid International Fuel Tax Agreement registration or trip permit if fuel tax registration is required. A covered farm vehicle is subject to being stopped for inspection to verify that the designation is valid. The vehicles must still follow federal and state equipment safety requirements, traffic laws and size and weight regulations. Drivers must also still enter open Kansas inspection and weigh stations. The exemptions are in addition to those already in existence per K.S.A. 66-1,129(c)(1).
Preparing meals Cattle for the harvest field Harvest time is about here and many of you will be carrying food out to the field. If you aren’t involved in harvest, read on anyway, the same principles apply for picnics. At the Extension Office, we have several publications on food safety. Just stop by and we will get you a copy. When cooking and transporting foods, it is important to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Since we can’t take the refrigerator and stove with us to the field or picnic, we need to have other equipment to get the job done and need to make plans for packing food. Foodborne pathogens grow fastest in temperatures between 90-110 degrees. A well-insulated cooler is an essential for packing perishable food such as ham, potato or macaroni salad, hamburger, hot dogs, lunch meat, deviled eggs, and cream pies. The cooler needs to be packed with ice or freezer-pack inserts. To help the cooler do its job, put it in the passenger section of the car. It is much cooler than the trunk. Put it in the shade when you get to your destination if possible.
warm water with you so everyone can wash up before eating. A thermos works well. You may want to take a plastic wash basin to wash in or use old wash cloths for each person. Casseroles for Convenience Baby wipes also work for Casseroles or one dish clean up. meals are convenient to carry to the field. They Be Organized will usually stay safe and A great deal of organiwarm if they are insulated zation is involved in carwell. rying food to the field. To insulate, wrap with Be sure you have a plan several layers of alumi- and a list so nothing is left num wrap, followed by behind. newspapers, and a towel Menus can be made out then place in a cardboard ahead of time and many box. If you have a pres- things prepared and frosure cooker use it to trans- zen ahead. You also need port hot foods that will to plan for snacks the spill since it has a rubber workers can carry with seal in the lid and will them such as fruit and hold heat better than most cookies. containers. Ask your workers what Hot foods should be kinds of meals they like served as soon as you and how much time they reach your destination. plan to take off for meals. Discard leftovers when Harvesters work long you get home. hours and it is important Instead of buying ice, that they get enough to wash out a couple of milk eat and enough to drink. jugs, fill with water and They need to have plenty freeze. When taken to the of water available along field or picnic, the ice with their drink of choice melts leaving cold drink- - pop, sports drink, leming water and the ice will onade, tea, etc. help keep foods cold. The less caffeine the Also you can freeze ice better, the caffeine will in small butter tubs for actually dehydrate the water jugs and ice tea. harvesters, so water is the Don’t forget to take best choice.
96.5% of producers retain sorghum checkoff The referendum on the continuation of the Sorghum Checkoff passed by an overwhelming 96.5 percent, according to the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service. “Results from the referendum indicate sorghum farmers across the nation believe in the work the Sorghum Checkoff is doing,” said Sorghum Checkoff Chairman Dale Murden. “This was a very important vote and signals the Checkoff is providing results and advancing the industry in a way that leads to farmer profitability.” The Sorghum Checkoff referendum, hosted by USDA-AMS, was held by producer vote from March 23 through April 21 and yielded 1,160 votes in favor and 42 votes opposed to continuation of the Checkoff. Texas and Kansas producing the largest voter turnout. Votes were received from 18 states. “The sorghum industry is at a turning point,” said Tim Lust, Sorghum Checkoff and National Sorghum Producers CEO, “and we’re pleased to see we have vast support from sorghum farmers who are the foundation of our industry.”
The Scott County Record • Page 35 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
A look at fed cattle prices since the start of 2015 indicates tendencies of moving in this direction, but a consistent pattern has not fully developed. Carcass and beef primal
(continued from page 31)
prices have been moving in more typical fashion. However, over the past two weeks high valued middle cuts (rib and loin primals) have weakened quite a bit and this has filtered through upstream
markets. It would be foolish to think these unusual moves will not linger as buyers and sellers continue to adjust to the “new normal” in cattle market prices.
The Scott County Record
Glue other than high-end, whole-muscle cuts - you know, the ones most of us can’t afford on a regular basis - you’re eating a degraded, possibly unhealthy food item. In contrast, here is what the International Culinary Center has to say about the ingredient, which by the way was first isolated from beef and pork blood - it’s actually a clotting agent - back in the 1950s: “ Tr a n s g l u t a m i n a s e (TG), better known to chefs as ‘meat glue,’ has the amazing ability to bond protein-containing foods together,” according to the group’s website. “Raw meats bound with TG are often strong enough to be handled as if they were whole, uncut muscles. “TG is safe, natural and easy to use.” The post includes detailed instructions for using TG in the kitchen, noting that the ingredient is primarily used to: Produce uniform portions that cook evenly, look good, and reduce waste Bind meat mixtures, such as sausages and franks, that are made without casings Make novel meat combinations, such as combining lamb and scallops Additionally, TG is used in numerous culinary applications, such as thickening egg yolks, strengthening dough mixtures in baked goods and to thicken dairy-based product formulations. Judged by How it Eats Back to the “meat glue” video. As the “exposé” proceeds, we watch Mr. Ballistic BBQ layer
Harvest 2015 (continued from page 30)
chunks of low-end stew meat onto a slab of beef brisket, covering them with transglutaminase (as a white powder), then vacuum packaging the results in a refrigerator overnight. He then open the bag to reveal what appears to be a ribeye steak, complete with marbling and the classic fat rind on its outer edge. Yes, there were a few air pockets visible in the final product, but that’s because the guy’s “manufacturing” his so-called fake steak in a household kitchen, as opposed to using commercial processing equipment. Now for the punch line. After several minutes spent decrying the use of TG, complaining that “fast-food outlets” are using deceptive marketing tactics by incorporating TG, the narrator slow cooks the steak in a sous vide cooker, sears it on a regular outdoor grill, then slices off a chunk and admits, “This actually looks very good - like a real ribeye - and it has a nice, beefy brisket flavor.” And your point is? You used lower quality stew meat, plus beef brisket, to create a product that looks like a ribeye steak, cooks like a ribeye steak and eats like a ribeye steak, using a safe, natural ingredient widely applied in all kinds of food processing operations, many of which have nothing to do with Frankenanything. But we’re supposed to come away with serious outrage at profit-mongering meat companies, ingredient suppliers and foodservice operators because they developed formulations to make our
food choices tasty, palatable, safe and affordable. Unbelievable. Try making meatloaf sometime using only pure, 100% ground chuck or ground round, and see how it turns out. Without some sort of binder to hold in the moisture, you end up with a tough, dry and unpalatable slab of chewy protein. Whether it’s beef patties, chicken fillets or high-end sausage, virtually every formulated product requires functional ingredients to improve both its culinary appeal and its functionality, such as roast beef that remains palatable while sitting under a heat lamp on a buffet line. Yes, the meat industry has often gone overboard with creating low-quality, least-cost products that drag down consumer perceptions of an entire category. “Ham With Water Product” comes to mind. But by his own admission, however, Mr. Frankensteak admitted that the meat-glued ribeye looked good and tasted great. I wish we all could afford to have real filet mignon or Porterhouse steaks at the center of our plates on other than special occasions. But isn’t the next best thing a product that resembles those cuts, and eats like a delicious steak, at half the price? If that’s the net result of using meat glue, I’ll “stick” to my original point: Glue is good. Dan Murphy is a food-industry journalist and commentator
Page 36 - Thursday, June 18, 2015
Bird Flu Most recently, following the March 31 Grain Stocks report which indicated higher than anticipated quarterly corn stocks, USDA reduced projections for feed and residual use of corn to 5.25 billion bushels. This number has remained unchanged through the most recent June 10 WASDE projections despite the pace of bird flu confirmations accelerating in April and May of 2015. Put simply, USDA has not revised feed and residual use of corn lower as a result of the bird flu. There are several rea-
The Scott County Record • Page 37 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
(continued from page 32)
sons why this may be the case. First, the decline in feed use attributable to the bird flu is not expected to significantly alter total poultry consumption of corn. USDA ERS Feed Grains Yearbook indicates that for the 2014-15 marketing year poultry is estimated to represent 34 percent of grain consuming animal units. Given the ERS projection for 5.25 billion bushels of corn used for feed, poultry use is expected to total 1.8 billion bushels of corn. These bushels are consumed across all poultry categories.
Based on USDA data, a majority of the bird flu confirmations have occurred in the layer and turkey flocks. Broiler production is the largest poultry production category and has been largely spared by the bird flu. While catastrophic to affected operations, the bird flu has resulted in a fairly isolated production disruption. Thus, with 47 million birds depopulated, USDA poultry inventory and slaughter data suggest only a small percentage of the U.S. poultry population is affected by the bird flu. Further, the USDA has
Drought worries ease after above-average May rainfall It wasn’t your imagination. It’s been raining more than usual - a lot more. May will go down in the record books as the third wettest May since 1895, according to the Kansas Weather Data Library. Statewide average precipitation for May in Kansas was 7.73 inches, which was 188 percent of normal, said assistant state climatologist Mary Knapp. That was enough to pull most of the state out of a five-year drought that cut crop production, forced the selloff of many of the state’s cattle and had some communities nervously watching their shrinking municipal water supplies. At the end of May, just six percent of the
state was in moderate drought and 67 percent was drought-free, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor (http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/Home/ StateDroughtMonitor. aspx?KS). That’s a far different picture than just a month earlier when 91 percent of the state was still listed as abnormally dry to some level of drought. Even more dramatic was that May precipitation, which came on top of welcome rains earlier in the spring made for vastly improved conditions from a year earlier when the U.S. Drought Monitor showed virtually all of Kansas in abnormally dry to exceptional drought conditions, with a sizeable portion in the latter. Northwest Kansas had
Diversify Reputation is also a marketable quality. “End users are looking for a known quality,” Brandon said. “It’s cheaper to keep a customer than look for new customers. It takes time, but once you have somebody behind you that comes back, it’s worth it to work with that customer.” Two additions to the retail store have made huge boosts in sales, she said. The mill now offers color swatches made from skeins that fall under standard lengths and project patterns for knitters and crocheters. “It’s simple,
the closest to normal rainfall during May at 113 percent of normal or an average of 3.93 inches. Southeast Kansas precipitation tallied 186 percent of normal or an average of 10.63 inches. Manhattan had the highest 24-hour precipitation total on May 5 when 4.85 inches fell and flooded parts of the city. Three all-time May record daily rainfall amounts were set, including 3.83 inches that fell on Lindsborg May 5; 3.72 inches at Overbrook on May 22; and 3.95 inches at John Redmond Reservoir on May 28. The National Climate Prediction Center has indicated that the summer also has an increased chance to be wetter than normal.
(continued from page 34)
but the difference it made was amazing,” she said. Pricing is another consideration for the fiber market. According to a survey conducted by the National NeedleArts Association, over $800 million was spent in 2013 by knitting, crocheting, spinning, weaving and needlepoint practitioners. Yarn sales from blends or natural fibers accounted for $377 million in sales. In the end, though, fiber producers have to be able to make money at this, Brandon said. “The key is to adapt to conditions and changes.”
she said. “I can’t keep up with all the things they’re doing with fiber. What works today might not work tomorrow. What works for me won’t necessarily work for you. We can still all work together to promote our businesses, but we have to constantly adapt. There are some exciting things coming up, and I’m excited about it.” For more information on upcoming workshops sponsored by Amazing Grazing, call Mary Howell (785-562-8726) or visit AmazingGrazingKansas. com.
stressed agency efforts to projections for milk, pork, plained using known inventory levels, known repopulate affected pro- and broiler production. Thus, increases in import volumes, and ducers in a safe and timely manner. USDA projections for the known consumption valproduction of other ani- ues for exports and indusUse in Other Categories mal products likely offset trial uses, i.e. ethanol. At this point the 800 Second, feed use in any feed declines attributmillion bushel range of other animal categories able to the bird flu. accounts for 66 percent Finally, and most potential feed and residual of total consumption and importantly, estimating use values swamps any may offset any declines in how much corn is fed feed component lost to the to livestock is an inex- bird flu. However, third poultry use. In the June 10 WASDE, act science. USDA does quarter corn stocks will be USDA recognized the not survey livestock pro- reported on June 30 and supply disruption caused ducers to determine how represent an opportunity by the bird flu and low- much feed is actually fed to update expectations. ered projections for 2015 to livestock. Following this report production of turkeys Instead, USDA deter- USDA is more likely to and eggs by six and four mines an implied feed and modify feed and residual percent, respectively. residual use of corn by use, and may credit bird However, in the same calculating the amount of flu for any downward report USDA increased corn consumption unex- revisions.
The Scott County Record • Page 38 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Classifieds Buy, sell, trade, one call does it all 872-2090 ot fax 872-0009
Classified Ad Deadline: Monday at 5:00 p.m.
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: $6.00 per column inch. Classified advertising must be paid in advance unless business account is established. If not paid in advance, there will be a $1 billing charge. Tear sheet for classified ad will be $1 extra.
Card of Thanks So many warm and caring people came out to wish myself and my family the best on Friday, June 12. It was overwhelming to be acknowledged by so many people in this community! All the best wishes and words of praise are so comforting in this bittersweet transition. Dan, the kids and I have been very blessed to be a part of this community for the last 31 years. So many dear friends that we will be moving away from, but know that you will forever be carried in our hearts! Thank you to everyone! Dan and Karen Sattler and family The family of Donna Jean Eitel would like to express sincere thanks and appreciation for the many acts of kindness during her illness and passing. The compassion and care shown by friends, neighbors, church and the community has demonstrated once again how wonderful it is to live in Scott City. God bless you all. Jynette and Phil Gibbs, Susan Wiechman, Kendra and Brett Kendrick, Denise and Melvin Murphy Gary and Deandra Eitel, Janet Hyatt
Services
Agriculture
Notice
Rentals
WANTED: Yards to mow and clean up, etc. Trim smaller trees and bushes too. Call Dean Riedl, (620) 872-5112 or 8744135. 34tfc ––––––––––––––––––––– METAL ROOFING, SIDING and TRIMS at direct-to-the-public prices. Call Metal King Mfg., 620-872-5464. Our prices will not be beat! 37tfc ––––––––––––––––––––– FURNITURE REPAIR and refinishing. Lawn mower tune-up and blade sharpening. Call Vern Soodsma, 872-2277 or 874-1412. 4015tfc ––––––––––––––––––––– MOWER REPAIR, tuneup and blade sharpening. Call Rob Vsetecka at 620214-1730. 4515tfc
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 ––––––––––––––––––––– FOR SALE BLACK ANGUS BULLS, registered, tested, 2 year olds, yearlings, heifer bulls, delivery, conformation, performance. Contact: Black Velvet Ranch, Aaron Plunkett, Syracuse, Ks., 620384-1101. 33t19c ––––––––––––––––––––– REGISTERED ANGUS bulls, Crooked Creek Angus, St. Francis, Ks. 785332-6206. 35t12c
THE SCOTT COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL will hold their annual meeting Monday, June 22, at 7:30 p.m. at the Scott County 45t1c Library.
HIDE AND SEEK STORAGE SYSTEMS. Various sizes available. Virgil and LeAnn Kuntz, (620)874-2120. 41tfc ––––––––––––––––––––– ALL BILLS PAID VALUE RENTALS, 2-3 bedroom houses available. Stop by PlainJan’s to pick up an application or call 620-872-5777. 43tfc ––––––––––––––––––––– STORAGE UNITS in various sizes available at The Storehouse, Don and Trudy Eikenberry 620872-2914. 07tfc ––––––––––––––––––––– PLAINJAN’S WILL HAVE 30 X 50 metal insulated shop for rent, building will include electricity $350 per month. Reserve yours today, call 620-872-5777. 39tfc ––––––––––––––––––––– 1 AND 2 BEDROOM apartments for rent. Please call 620-874-8353. 39tfc ––––––––––––––––––––– NICE NEWLY REMODELED 1 bedroom apartment. Call 620-2140803. 43t3p ––––––––––––––––––––– 2-BEDROOM HOME, water and trash paid. Not pets. Call 620-872-5570.
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NEW LISTINGS
COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS for sale. 40x60 ft. metal shop building and a 133x45 ft. (approx.) round top building. Serious inquiries only. Seller is a real estate agent selling own property. 8745109 or 874-2124. 26tfc
Help Wanted USD 466 NEEDS substitute route bus drivers. For applications and additional information contact Lance Carter at 620-872-7655. 02tfc
––––––––––––––––––––– TEMPORARY CLERK/ SCALE help for Cargill Cattle Feeders, Leoti. Duties will include operation of the scales and sampling the trucks for silage and HMC harvest. Must be 18 years of age or older. If interested please call 620-375-3105 and talk to Linda or pick up an application eight miles north of 45t11c Leoti on Hwy., 25.
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.
Real Estate
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––––––––––––––––––––– STORAGE UNITS 22’X40’ with 10’x14’ door for campers, boats, tractor, car or what ever. Call 620-214-2978. 45t4p
MOVE IN
Darling starter,
2-bedrooms, built-ins in
living room, oak cabinets, all appliances, kitchen bathroom remodeled, steel siding, large
storage area. Very neat
and clean! Only $62,900.
2-bedroom, 1 1/4 story,
FAMILY
with 2 bedrooms in
basement and detached garage.
New home being built on Maple St., in Eastridge
addition. 1,300+ sq. ft.,
with double garage and up grade interior.
Thomas Real Estate
www.thomasreal-estate.com
914 W. 12th Scott City, Ks. 67871 (620)-872-7396 Cell: (620)-874-1753 or Cell: (620)-874-5002
4 bedrooms, 2 baths, full basement, family room
down, appliances, FA-CA, fresh paint, fence, shed
GARAGE SALES Friday-Saturday, June 19-20
and SA garage. Nice area! Only $114,000.
Lawrence and Associates
Yard Sale 209 Downing St., Scott City Fri., June 19, 1:00-7:00 p.m. Sat., June 20, 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Lamps, TV, crystal wine glasses, craft books, jewelry box, knick-knacks, big women clothes, exercise bike, lots of misc.
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
Garage Sale 1223 Court St., Scott City Sat., June 20, 8:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Nordiac Track ski machine, hand weights, men, women and kids clothing, end table, small 3 drawer chest, toys, household items, 5 disk CD player with speakers, 32” doors.
www.scottcountyrecord.com
” ? G IN
Don’t forget to “moo-ve” your paper too!
V O OO
“M
406 Main • PO Box 377 Scott City, Ks. 67871 620-872-2090
The Scott County Record • Page 39 • Thursday, June 18, 2015
Employment Opportunities Employment Opportunity
is seeking a highly motivated individual to join our feed manufacturing team. Competitive wage, excellent benefits, and six paid holidays. Apply in person at the plant or call Mark or Adrian.
620-872-2189 45t2c
WAREHOUSE/MILLING Nu Life Market is accepting applications for full-time warehouse/milling employees. We offer an excellent benefits package. Applications available at our office, 1202 E. 5th St., Scott City, 620-872-5236.
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SITE MANAGER Parkview Apartments in Leoti, is currently accepting resumes for a part-time Site Manager of a 24 unit complex. Candidate should have strong interpersonal and organizational skills with a perferred background in housing managament and knowledge of Kansas Landlord laws. EOE Send resume to: Leoti Housing, 9710 W. 9th St. N. Wichita, Ks. 67212 or email: chillroberts@yahoo.com
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, that’s ours. Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. Tuesday nights at 8:30 p.m. at the United Methodist Church basement (use west door). 412 College, Scott City.
PARK LANE NURSING HOME Has openings for the following positions: Full-time CNA/CMA Part-time/PRN Housekeeping Aide Full-time Dietary Aide/Cook Shift differential pay offered for evening and night shifts! Please apply in person at:
Park Lane Nursing Home
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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SPECIAL EDUCATION PARA-PROFESSIONAL Do you enjoy working with kids in an educational setting? Would you like the working hours of a school day? High Plains Educational Cooperative Unified School District No. 466 is seeking special education Para-Professional’s in the elementary, middle and high school to work with students. The positions are available for the beginning of the 2015-16 school year. For more information and applications please contact: Susan Carter Board of Education Building 704 College, Scott City, KS 67871 43tfc
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RECYCLING CENTER MANAGER Scott County Public Works is seeking someone to run the Recycling Center. Must be able to run forklift, baler and lift 50 plus pounds. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Drug and alcohol testing required. Pick up an application at the: Public Works Office 481 East Road 160 Scott City, KS. 67871 620-872-2202 45t3c
EDUCATOR Greenbush is seeking Parents as Teachers Parent Educator to provide home-based services to children and their families ages prenatal - 3 years in USD 466 Scott County. Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood or related field required. Average of 25-27 hours/week, some evening appointments. EOE To apply, go to: http://greenbush.schoolrecruiter.net
Want to Work Check Us Out Competitive Wages Advancement Opportunities Hourly Bonus Pay Flexible Schedules Friendly Environment Equal Employment Opportunity
Apply Now at Wendy’s 1502 S. Main, Scott City
SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT
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Scott County Sheriff’s Department is accepting applications for:
Jailer Applicants must be 21 years of age with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. Must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Looking for someone who is a team player. Must be willing to do shift work including days, nights, holidays and weekends. Background checks and UA’s completed on all prospective applicants. Applicants must not have any felony or misdemeanor charges or convictions. Scott County offers an excellent benefit package that includes BCBS health, KPERS, paid vacation, sick leave, holidays and furnished uniforms and equipment. Applications may be obtained at and returned to: Sheriff Office 602 W. 5th, Scott City • (620) 872-5805
Applications may be obtained at and returned to: Sheriff Office 602 W. 5th, Scott City • (620) 872-5805
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McCarty Farms Scott City, LLC is part of a large progressive dairy and milk processing operation based in Northwest Kansas. We are currently seeking an individual for an administrative assistant opportunity at our dairy. We are looking for motivated team-oriented people who want to be long-term members of an innovative family business. Excellent customer service and phone skills are a must, proficiency in Microsoft Office is required. For more information contact Courtney at 785-460-0596 Email us at: cgoodman@mccartyfamilyfarms.com or mail your resume to: PO Box 968 Colby, KS 67701.
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ROUTE SALES PERSON High Plains Energy, LLC a rapidly growing service oriented company, is seeking a full-time Route Sales Person for the Tribune, Leoti and Scott City area. Applicant must be 21, have a valid CDL and good driving record. Hazmat endorsement, tanker, air brakes and/or propane delivery experience, a plus. We will train the proper applicant. We offer competitive wages, health insurance, life insurance, retirement, sick leave, vacation and paid holidays. For an application Call: Office: 877-607-0040, Jim Green, Operations Manager: 620-260-6207, or Bryon Lopez, General Manager: 620-640-4445.
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SCOTT COUNTY HOSPITAL HAS OPENINGS FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS
Two Deputy Sheriff’s Applicants must be 21 years of age with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. Must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Preferred applicant needs to be a Kansas Certified Law Enforcement Officer. But we are willing to train the right person. Looking for someone who is a team player. Must be willing to work shift work including days, nights, holidays and weekends. Background checks and UA’s completed on all prospective applicants. Applicants must not have any felony or misdemeanor charges or convictions. Scott County offers an excellent benefit package that includes BCBS health, KPERS, paid vacation, sick leave, holidays and furnished uniforms and equipment and up-to-date patrol vehicles.
Scott County Sheriff’s Department is accepting applications for:
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Safety, THAT makes a difference.
SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT 44t2c
Al-Anon at same time and location. Contact: 874-0472 or 872-3137. 30t52
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PATIENT CARE Acute Care RNs Physical Therapist Respiratory Therapist Operating Room RN C.N.A.s - FT and PT Float RN Cardiac Rehab RN Emergency Department RN Med/Surg/OB Support RN Clinical Informatics Coordinator SERVICE Cook PRN Nutritional Service Aide Dietary/Housekeeping Shared Position Applicants for these positions are required to be able to read, speak and understand English. Pre-employment physical, drug/alcohol screening, immunization titer, physical assessment and TB skin test required. We are a tobacco free campus. We offer competitive pay and great benefits. Applications are available on our website at www.scotthospital.net or call 620-872-7772 for more information.
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The Scott County Record
Lawn and Garden
Page 40 - Thursday, June 18, 2015
Time to fertilize warm-season grasses Now is the time to fertilize warm-season lawn grasses such as bermuda grass, buffalo grass, and zoysia grass. These species all thrive in the warmer weather of summer; accordingly, that is the time they respond best to fertilization. The nutrient of greatest importance is nitrogen (N), and these three species need it in varying amounts. Bermuda grass requires the most nitrogen. High quality bermuda stands need about four pounds N per 1,000 sq. ft. During the season (low maintenance areas can get by on 2 lbs.). Apply this as four spaced applications (i.e., about four weeks apart) of one pound N per 1,000 sq.
In fact, too much is worse than too little. One and one-half to two pounds N per 1,000 sq. ft. during the season is sufficient. Split the total in half and make one application ft. The nitrogen can come now and another around from either a quick- or mid-July. Slow-release N is preferable but quickslow-release source. Plan to make your last release is acceptable. application no later than August 15. This helps Buffalo Grass Buffalo grass requires ensure the bermuda is not the least nitrogen of all over-stimulated and therelawn species commonly fore susceptible to winter grown in Kansas. It will kill. survive and persist with no supplemental nitrogen, Zoysia Grass but giving it one pound Zoysia grass grows N per 1,000 sq. ft. will more slowly than ber- improve color and density. muda grass and is also This application should be prone to develop thatch. made now. Consequently, it does not For a little darker color, need as much nitrogen. fertilize it as described for
Cedar Apple Rust has followed recent rains Oh the things that can grow if we just get some rain. The grass is growing, trees are doing well again, and crops are looking better than they have for a few years. Now with the trees, flowers, and weeds probably taking over the landscape, there is something else that I have gotten calls on that we haven’t had to worry much about in these parts for the last few years - Cedar Apple Rust. If you are wondering what those slimy looking orange balls hanging from your cedar trees, stay tuned. On cedars and other junipers, a gall overwinters as an object about the size of a golf ball. Wet weather causes the gall to expand and release fungal spores in the form of an orange gelatinous glob. The pathogen, a fungus, spends part of its life cycle on a juniper tree, and the other part of its life cycle on apples, crabapples, hawthorns or quince. To simplify, we’ll just call them “apple hosts.” Most diseases are specific to one species of plant and normally, if the disease is present one year, it will likely be a problem the next year if environmental conditions are favorable. Those jelly-like orange masses on the junipers produce spores that infect the apple hosts. Once infection occurs, leaf spots on apple leaves develop in 1-3 weeks. Eventually, fungal spores are produced in these leaf spots on the apple tissues. The spores are spread by wind and rain back to junipers starting in about July. Without both hosts the fungus can’t complete its life cycle. Eyesore, not Harmful The disease looks dramatic on junipers, but it does not cause any harm. It’s actually more of an eyesore. The rusts can cause problems in the apple host, however. If infection is severe, many leaves drop off
Down on the Farm Chris Long Walnut Creek Extension Agent
early and the tree is weakened due to reduced photosynthesis. If your tree only gets a small amount of rust each year it probably won’t be an issue for long term tree health. Find Resistant Variety Management options for apple hosts include, first off, finding a resistant variety. For new plantings of fruiting or flowering apples, consider planting a rust-resistant variety. The next option is going to be tree care. For any apple tree, proper pruning will allow air movement through the canopy. This practice reduces the leaf wetness that promotes disease. Maintaining overall tree health will also help prevent the disease. Finally, consider use of fungicides. Homeowners with a bad history of this disease, with severe defoliation, might consider preventative fungicide sprays on the apple hosts when leaves are out and the orange galls are active. For best control, applications should continue through May or as long as the orange galls are active. Products with the active ingredients myclobutanil or propiconazole are examples of materials labeled for cedar apple rust management in flowering crabapples and non-fruiting apples. Some myclobutanil products are labeled for fruiting apples. However, in all cases, make sure you check the label carefully. For example, the myclobutanil product “Immunox Plus” is labeled for rust on flowering crabapples, but not for fruiting/eating apples, as it contains an insecticide along with the myclobutanil ingredient. In contrast, “Immunox Multi-Purpose Fungicide” is labeled for fruiting apples.
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zoysia grass, but do not apply more than a total of two pounds N per 1000 sq. ft. in one season. Buffalo grass tends to get weedy when given too much nitrogen. As with zoysia, slow-release N is preferable but fast-release is also okay. As for all turf grasses, phosphorus and potassium are best applied according to soil test results because most soils in Scott County already have adequate amounts of these nutrients for turf grass growth. Iron is more often needed in our area, as soil pHs is typically above 7.0 to 7.5.
tomato plants with curling leaves. When tomato plants grow vigorously in mild, spring weather the top growth often exceeds the root development. When the first few days of hot summer weather hits, the plant “realizes” it has a problem and needs to increase its root development. The plant tries to reduce its leaf area by rolling leaves. The leaves curl along the length of the leaf (leaflet) in an upward fashion. It is often accompanied by a thickening of the leaf giving it a leathery texture. Interestingly, leaf roll is worse on some varieties Leaf Curl in Tomatoes than others. Every year I receive Though rolling usually calls from gardeners about occurs during the spring
to summer shift period, it may also occur after a heavy cultivating or hoeing, a hard rain, or any sudden change in weather. This year, it seems heavy rains have contributed to the situation in certain areas of the state. Too much rain can saturate the soil and suffocate the roots. The damaged root system is less able to transport water, especially when warm temperatures and winds increase water use. This leaf roll is a temporary condition that goes away after a week or so when the plant has a chance to acclimate and recover from injury, or the soil has a chance to dry out.