September 2016 – Page 47 – Hays Post Archive

Effort underway to identify Kan. voters affected by proof of citizenship order

Posted on September 15, 2016

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach says county election offices are sorting through thousands of records to identify voters affected by a recent federal court order.

The Wichita Eagle reports that the effort stems from last week’s ruling blocking Kansas and two other states from requiring proof of citizenship from people who register to vote using the federal form.

Kobach says the state’s voter database does not differentiate between people who register with the federal form and the state form. That means local election officers will have to physically go through paper records of people who tried to register since January to determine which voters were affected by the ruling.

Kobach estimates that the number of people affected would be between 200 and 400 statewide.

Police search for suspect after Kansas woman reports violent attack

Posted on September 15, 2016

SALINE COUNTY – Law enforcement authorities in Saline County are investigating an attempted murder and searching for a suspect.

Just before 10p.m. on Wednesday police officers were sent to an east Salina home for report of a domestic disturbance, according to Police Captain Mike Sweeney

A woman in her 30’s told police the suspect attempted to strangle her after an argument.

She said he punched and kicked her before forcing her into a bathroom, closed the door and would not allow her to leave.

Sweeney said the suspect also threatened to kill the woman several times before she was finally able to escape to a neighbor’s home and contact police.

By the time officers arrived, the suspect had fled and has not been located.

The woman was taken to Salina Regional Health Center and treated for bruising.

Arrest warrants have been requested for the suspect on charges including attempted 2nd degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, domestic battery and criminal threats, according to Sweeney.

He did not release the suspect’s name.

Volunteers needed for Trick Or Treat So Others Can Eat

Posted on September 15, 2016September 15, 2016

food drive counter — Volunteers are needed for the Oct. 11 Trick Or Treat So Others Can Eat food drive organized by Hays High School DECA.

HHS DECA

The annual Trick or Treat So Others Can Eat canned food drive is set for Tuesday, October 11 in Hays. Volunteers will be going door to door collecting non-perishable food items from 6:00 to 9:00 pm.

To assure residents that the items collected are for the Community Assistance Center, all volunteers will be wearing an identification badge with “Trick or Treat So Others Can Eat” clearly printed. Please leave items on the porch if you will not be home or do not want someone ringing the doorbell. Youth and adult volunteers from Hays give of their time to make this food drive a success.

Any house missed or those living in a rural area may take food items to the Community Assistance Center in Hays located at 12th and Oak until noon October 31.

Hays High DECA still needs groups and organizations to assist with this year’s collection. Please contact Shaina Prough at Hays High School, 623-2600, if you are interested in helping or need further information.

USGS: Another small earthquake reported in central Kansas

Posted on September 15, 2016

SALINE COUNTY -The U.S. Geological Survey reported a minor earthquake Wednesday evening in Saline County.

The USGS reported the magnitude 2.5 temblor, which occurred at 10:55 p.m., was centered south of Gypsum.

According to the USGS, a quake of that strength results in weak to light shaking.

Central Kansas resident have experience quakes on August 31, September 3, and September 14.

No damage or injuries are reported from Wednesday evening’s quake.

BROWNBACK: Agriculture is vital to Kansas economy

Posted on September 15, 2016

Kansas is deservedly recognized as a powerhouse in production agriculture. From the first settlers like notable Kansan C.B. Schmidt, who led the immigration of Russian Mennonites to Kansas in the late 1800s, to today’s farmers Kansans have always recognized the challenge and reward of agriculture.

Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to travel throughout south-central Kansas talking with and hearing from leaders in agriculture, including Jim Schmidt, a descendant of those original Russian Mennonite immigrants, who still farms in Kansas. The challenges he and others face today are different than those faced by their ancestors. Today, concerns about preserving water resources, increasing global competition and changing consumer demands must be addressed for agribusinesses to succeed. Weather conditions from drought to flood or excessive heat to extreme cold always present a risk to crop yields and agriculture.

These challenges affect more than just farmers, ranchers and other agricultural businesses in our state. Today, the agriculture industry in Kansas represents 43 percent of the state’s economy and is valued at more than $62 billion. That makes agribusiness in Kansas important to all of us.

One of the most important issues facing agribusiness today is water conservation and preservation. Water was over-allocated for decades and it is important for us to address this issue now to ensure an adequate water supply for the state and future generations. These efforts are succeeding because of men and women who are willing to manage risk and adopt new technologies and practices.

Kansas farmers are pushing through hard times, with commodity and other prices being low. Growing the Kansas economy is a key priority for me, and that means helping our agribusinesses to succeed.

There are substantial things we can do long-term: We must be focused on ensuring our agricultural producers have access to reliable, efficient and modern transportation networks to move their products to market. We must recruit and retain the employees these businesses – big and small – need to be successful. We must partner with industry to address regulatory and statutory roadblocks at the local, state and federal levels.

We know Kansas has been blessed with tremendous natural resources – from water to fertile land – and that we must be good stewards of those resources so they are available for our children and grandchildren.

This is a key time for Kansas to focus on moving into the future as we develop strategic plans for agricultural growth.

Sam Brownback is the governor of Kansas.

Rooks Co., Colby part of 2016 Fly Kansas Air Tour

Posted on September 15, 2016

KDOT

TOPEKA–The 2016 Fly Kansas Air Tour lifts off from Wellington on Sept. 29 for a three-day, 9-city celebration of Kansas aviation.

This year’s tour, presented by the Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education and the Kansas Department of Transportation, will focus on raising awareness of the importance of community airports and promoting aviation to young people. More than 500 students are expected to visit their airports during the tour. Several dozen aircraft are expected to participate.

“The air tour is an opportunity to promote Kansas aviation. Kansas ranks number one in the country for per capita economic benefit from aviation,” said Ed Young, president of the Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education and Fly Kansas Foundation.

“We have an aviation cluster in Wichita and an avionics mecca in Johnson County. This is our chance to not only celebrate the on-going contribution aviation makes, but also introduce a new generation to their community airport,” he said.

This is the third consecutive year for the revived tour, which first took place in 1928. The goal of that first tour was to promote the fledgling aviation industry in Kansas. After the next year’s tour in 1929, there was a 79-year gap before the next tour in 2008, which included 28 stops and attracted more than 10,000 people across the state during the seven-day tour. After a short hiatus, the tour took wing again in 2014.

“This is a great opportunity for us to promote one of the largest industries in Kansas and provide an avenue for students to connect with aviators,” said Merrill Atwater, KDOT’s Division of Aviation Director. “With a specific focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) education and aviation history, we highlight the benefits of local airports to their communities, Kansas, and the nation.”

The public is encouraged to visit the local airports during the tour stops to see the airplanes up close, talk to the pilots and learn about the role of aviation in Kansas.

At the Rooks County Regional Airport located between Stockton and Plainville, more than 100 third and fourth graders will tour the airport and aircraft.

In Colby, an aerial demonstration will be performed by Colby Ag Aviation at the Colby Municipal Airport Shalz Field. The pilots will also have lunch with 150 middle school students who will tour the airport and aircraft.

For more information please visit https://2016flykansas.eventbrite.com.

The following is the tour schedule and a map:

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
Wellington
8 a.m. Aircraft Arrival
10 a.m. Departure

Great Bend
11:15 a.m. Aircraft Arrival
12:30 p.m. Departure

Rooks County
1:15 p.m. Aircraft Arrival
2:30 p.m. Departure

Dodge City
4 p.m. Aircraft Arrival

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
Dodge City
9:30 a.m. Departure

Scott City
10 a.m. Aircraft Arrival
11 a.m. Departure

Colby
11:40 a.m. Aircraft Arrival
1 p.m. Departure

Salina
3:15 p.m. Aircraft Arrival

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1
Salina
9:30 a.m. Departure

Topeka
10:30 a.m. Aircraft Arrival
1 p.m. Departure

Newton
2 p.m. Aircraft Arrival

Police investigate reported threat at Kansas high school

Posted on September 15, 2016September 15, 2016

HUTCHINSON – Law enforcement authorities in Reno County are investigating an alleged threat at High School in Hutchinson.

In an email message to parents, Trinity Catholic Principal Joe Hammersmith said that on Tuesday a student made a statement that could have been construed as a threat of violence.

Hutchinson Police have interviewed a number of students, are following up on those interviews and no arrests have been made, according to Detective Dean Harcrow.

Few additional details were released.

FHSU college named in honor of W.R. and Yvonne Robbins

Posted on September 15, 2016September 15, 2016

WR-and-Yvonne-Robbins-web — Yvonne and W.R. Robbins

FHSU University Relations and Marketing

The Kansas Board of Regents today approved naming Fort Hays State University’s College of Business and Entrepreneurship the W.R. and Yvonne Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship.

In addition, a section of the building will be named the Robbins Banking Institute.

Robbins, an alumnus from Fort Hays State University, and his wife, Yvonne, are longtime, devoted supporters of the university. He is chair of Farmers Bank and Trust, Great Bend, which owns and manages seven locations in central Kansas and two in Johnson County.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in education, W.R. Robbins spent two years teaching math and science before moving into the banking industry. In 1971, he bought his first bank, Farmers State Bank of Albert, which comprised $4 million in assets at the time. Presently, Farmers Bank and Trust has assets of about $775 million, nine locations and 110 employees.

During the past 50 years, Robbins has been actively involved with Fort Hays State University in many capacities and served in a variety of executive board positions, including president of the FHSU Foundation. In 2000, he was selected as chair of FHSU’s $30 million Centennial Capital Campaign.

When asked what advice he would offer students just beginning their college careers, Robbins said, “Set your sights on what you want and combine it with passion and commitment.”

“Mr. Robbins grew a small-town, single-facility bank into a chain of rural banks. He represents the essence of entrepreneurial excellence,” said President Mirta M. Martin. “From humble beginnings as a child growing up in central Kansas, to the CEO and chairman of a multi-million dollar banking corporation, his life’s journey has certainly been an example of the importance of Kansas work ethic and values.”

An official dedication of the college and its new name is scheduled for Oct. 20.

HPD Activity Log Sept. 14

Posted on September 15, 2016September 15, 2016

The Hays Police Department responded to 23 traffic calls and 5 animal calls Wed., Sept. 14, 2016, according to the HPD Activity Log.

NCIC Hit–2200 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 1 AM; 2:10 AM
Animal At Large–200 block E 14th St, Hays; 7:11 AM
Animal At Large–200 block E 12th St, Hays; 7:24 AM
Abandoned Vehicle–700 block E 6th St, Hays 8:45 AM
Burglary/vehicle–500 block Vine St, Hays; 1 AM; 1:15 AM
Assist – Other (not MV)–100 block W 12th St, Hays; 10:10 AM
Theft (general)–2500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 9/12 11 AM; 9/14 11:30 AM
Criminal Damage to Property–500 block W 33rd St, Hays; 9/13 9 PM; 9/14 10 AM
Animal At Large–1200 block Vine St, Hays; 11:34 AM
Theft (general)–500 block Vine St, Hays; 1 AM; 1:15 AM
Burglary/vehicle–500 block Vine St, Hays; 1 AM; 1:15 AM
Found/Lost Property–2700 block Hall St, Hays; 1:52 PM
Miscellaneous Investigation–4800 block General Hays Rd, Hays; 4:01 PM
Abandoned Vehicle–200 block W 35th St, Hays; 4:37 PM
Lost Animals ONLY–1100 block Downing Ave, Hays; 4:41 PM
MV Accident-Private Property–1400 block E Reservation Rd, Hays; 4:50 PM
Driving While Suspended/Revoked–2500 block Vine St, Hays; 5:44 PM; 5:46 PM
Theft (general)–400 block W 17th St, Hays; 8/10; 9/12 4 PM
Water Use Violation–1100 block Amhurst Dr, Hays; 6:14 PM
Theft of Services–2700 block Vine St, Hays; 6:30 PM; 6:38 PM
Theft (general)–1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 6:55 PM
Criminal Damage to Property–2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 6 PM; 7 PM
Found/Lost Property–2700 block Hall St, Hays; 7:07 PM
Theft of Services–1900 block Vine St, Hays; 9:02 PM; 9:08 PM

Kansas Board of Regents calls for restored higher ed funding

Posted on September 15, 2016

Zoe Newton- photo Kansas Board of Regents

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas Board of Regents is urging the governor and lawmakers to restore higher education funding.

The Topeka Capital-Journal reports that the regents took the stance Wednesday unanimously and without comment. For fiscal years 2018 and 2019, their proposal calls for reinstating about $30 million per year sliced from the fiscal 2017 budget.

The cuts announced in May represented a 4 percent higher education reduction. The University of Kansas and KU Medical Center lost about $10.7 million, and Kansas State University’s campuses lost about $7 million.

NEWS: State Funding for Higher Education Crucial to the Future of Kansas | Full release here: https://t.co/tBlUqQe0e7 #growKS #highered

— KS Board of Regents (@ksregents) September 14, 2016

Regents chairwoman Zoe Newton says the board is “not unaware of the straits that we are in as a state.” But she says the board feels it needs to “put out there what it is that we feel we need as a system.”

Emma Zerr

Posted on September 15, 2016

Emma Zerr, age 95, of Quinter, passed away Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at Gove County Medical Center, Quinter. She was born in Gove County, on January 6, 1921, to Valentine and Anna (Zimmerman) Zerr.

Emma was was united in marriage to Rudolph C. Zerr, on August 25, 1941, in Park, Kansas. He preceded her in death in 1991. She was a loving homemaker and housewife.

Survivors include three sons, Delbert (Judy) Zerr of Manhattan, Delmer (Carrie) Zerr of Wellington, and Herman (Jann) Zerr of Grainfield; two daughters, Mary Lou Weber of Loveland, Colorado, and Loretta (Daniel) Zordel of Hays; eleven grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; one brother, Tony Wildeman of Ness City; and one sister, Clara Guest of Oregon. She was preceded in death by her husband; a son, Erwin Zerr; two grandchildren, Jeffrey Weber and Isaac Zerr; six brothers; and six sisters.

Mass of Christian burial will be 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 17, 2016 at St. Agnes Catholic Church, Grainfield. Burial will be in the Grainfield Cemetery.

Visitation will be Friday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 at the St. Agnes Religious Education Center, Grainfield. A parish vigil will follow at 7:00.

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Agnes Christian Mothers or the Grainfield American Legion Auxiliary. Contributions made to the organization may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 South Main, Quinter, KS 67752.

Condolences may be left for the family by signing the online guestbook at www.schmittfuneral.com.

Kicker Country Stampede announces first round of lineup announcements

Posted on September 15, 2016

MANHATTAN — Kicker Country Stampede is celebrating 22 years of bringing the magic of Nashville’s music scene to Manhattan, Kansas by releasing some exciting names in its first round of 2017 lineup announcements.

Superstar Chris Stapleton has been announced as a headliner for 2017. Already an established Nashville songwriter for the biggest names in country, Stapleton’s star shot straight up when he released his debut album Traveller in 2015. The album earned Stapleton four Grammy nominations with two wins and platinum selling status. Stapleton also made history at the CMA Awards when he was the first artist to win Album of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year and New Artist of the Year at the same awards.

Thomas Rhett, one of country music’s hottest stars, is also set to headline the Cenex Main Stage on one of the three nights. Rhett, already has multiple number one hits to his name along with several prestigious industry award nominations, and multiplatinum selling status. Country music legend Alan Jackson will be joining Rhett as a headliner at the 2017 event.

With a catalog that includes over 30 number one hits, and two Grammy Award wins, Jackson’s performance on the Cenex Main Stage is a must-see-event for any country music fan. Last but certainly not least, 2016 ACM Vocal Group of the Year, and New Artist of the Year nominees Old Dominion were announced. Kicker Country Stampede will be making more exciting lineup announcements early next year, including the full festival schedule, so stay tuned.

Three-day admission passes are available for $120, VIP for $510 and reserved for $250. Prices will go up. Camping is available starting at $135, and is expected to sell out, so get your site before they’re gone. Jump-the-line tickets are available for $130 while supplies last. This ticket allows fans to enter the festival a full 15 minutes before everyone else.

For more information on tickets or for any of your Kicker Country Stampede needs, visit countrystampede.com or call 800-795-8091.

Extension to offer fall financial series in Hays

Posted on September 15, 2016

K-State Research and Extension

Fall is a great time to address that nagging good intention to manage your money with a little more skill and care. In this three-part evening series presented by Linda Beech, Ellis County Extension FCS Agent, there won’t be any “hot tips” to make you rich overnight, but there will be plenty of “common cents” information to enhance your financial life.

Monday, October 3, 6:30 pm: Understanding Your Money Personality
Explore the habits and attitudes that make up your money personality. Use our special card sorting activity to learn more about yourself and the way you make money decisions. Think about how other family members approach money and learn about the impact of finances on family relationships.

Tuesday, October 11, 6:30 pm: Saving Dollars When You Don’t Have a Dime to Spare
Think it is impossible to save money? The ability to save is based not only on how much you make, but how you choose to spend and save that makes the difference. This program will help you recognize how even small expenditures add up over time and will encourage money-saving changes so you can begin to save dollars, even when you think you don’t have a dime to spare.

Tuesday, October 18, 6:30 pm: Money on the Bookshelf- Using Stories to Teach Kids Financial Skills
Children start building knowledge about numbers, money and making choices long before they begin school. This program uses children’s books to help children learn simple concents about money and how to use it. Written guides for 10 children’s books are included for parents, grandparents, day care providers and others to use with kids.

Mark your calendar and plan to attend these fall financial programs. All programs will be held at 6:30 pm at the Ellis County Extension Office meeting room, 601 Main Street in Hays. Call 785-628-9430 to register or for more information. A minimum attendance is required to hold each program.