By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

After working in real estate since 1972, Hays resident Louise McCord, 87, is ready to retire from the business.

Currently a broker-agent with Coldwell Banker Executive Realty, McCord and her husband Carl were part owners of United Service Agency in Russell from 1972 until 1987.

After Carl died in 1987, Louise moved to Hays in 1992. She purchased a home and and went to work for Patty Stull, owner-broker of Coldwell Banker Executive Realty, where McCord has been the past 26 years.

During the 1980s, McCord also worked for several local real estate agencies including Century 21 and Landmark Realty.

“Working as a realtor with the purpose of helping people with some of the biggest decisions of their lives,” is one of McCord’s best Hays memories.

“Being a broker-agent with Coldwell Banker Executive Realty, I have many friends from being associated with CBER,” McCord said in a news release.

“I have enjoyed the people of Hays and those I have worked with over the years.”

McCord has also been active in the Hays Board of Realtors, First United Methodist Church, Soroptimists, Hays Area Chamber of Commerce and Tiger Club.

McCord was born in Great Bend in 1931.

She has two daughters, Karen, Sarasota, Fla., and Sharon, Oklahoma City. Her granddaughter Julie, Topeka, is married and has three children, Anthony, Jaya and Mya.

CITY OF ELLIS

ELLIS – Big Creek in Ellis has been restocked with 600 bass thanks to the Kansas Dept. of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. Police Chief Taft Yates provided the update to Ellis City Council members during their Monday meeting.

Yates also advised there are two candidate interviews scheduled for Oct. 20 for the open police officer position.

In other business, the council unanimous approved an application for local incentives for Riverside Espresso & Café, LLC.

The complete Oct. 1 minutes follow.

 

ELLIS CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING

Minutes

October 1, 2018

 

CALL TO ORDER

Mayor David McDaniel called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. Present were Council members Bret Andries, Holly Aschenbrenner, Susan Eaton, Jolene Niernberger, Dena Patee, and Bob Redger.  Also present were Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman, City Clerk Amy Burton, Police Chief Taft Yates, and City Prosecutor Cassy Zeigler.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA

None

PUBLIC PRESENT

Glen Keller, Mike Downing, and Doug Williams.

CONSENT AGENDA

Council member Bob Redger moved to approve the consent agenda containing the Minutes from the Regular Meeting on September 17, 2018 and Bills Ordinance #2054.  Council member Jolene Niernberger seconded the motion. The Council approved the consent agenda 6-0.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

None

PRESENTATIONS OF AWARDS, PROCLAMATIONS, REQUESTS & PETITIONS (HEARINGS)

None

SPECIAL ORDER

Economic Development: Special Projects

Doug Williams, Interim Director, Grow Hays, and Mike Downing, Ellis Representative, explained the reasoning behind the name change from the Ellis County Coalition for Economic Development to Grow Hays.  Mr. Williams assured the Governing Body that the organization is still committed to the Ellis and Victoria communities.  Mr. Williams and Mr. Downing continued by highlighting some of the organization’s current projects, including a youth entrepreneurial program, Brief Space, and a housing rehabilitation program partially funded by a Dane G. Hansen Foundation grant.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

None

NEW BUSINESS

Sanitation/Sewer: Accounting/Billing

Council member Bob Redger moved to approve the Application for Local Incentives for Riverside Espresso & Café, LLC.  Council member Dena Patee seconded the motion.  The motion carried 6-0.

Capital Improvement: Acquisition

Public Works Director Alan Scheuerman presented two bids to replace the south overhead garage door.  The door was scheduled for replacement this year.  Council member Holly Aschenbrenner moved to approve the bid from C&E Doors, LLC in the amount of $2,450 for the purchase and installation of an 11’ overhead door, with funds to come from the Capital Improvement Fund.  Council member Jolene Niernberger seconded the motion.  The motion carried 6-0.

Parks: Special Project

Mr. Scheuerman continued by presenting bids for materials and labor for construction of the bathrooms at the park on South Walnut.  The Public Works Department will pour the concrete foundation and install the roof, and contract out the plumbing, electrical, and block work.  Council member Holly Aschenbrenner inquired of soliciting bids to contract out the entire project, rather than have the City perform some of the work.  It was the consensus of Council to table further discussion so that Mr. Scheuerman can obtain contractor bids for the entire project.

Street: Repair/Maintenance

Mr. Scheuerman requested approval to perform street repairs for approximately 300’ on Lakeview Street and 120’ on Cottonwood Street.  Council member Holly Aschenbrenner questioned if the County is responsible for a portion of the Cottonwood Street repairs being proposed.  After further discussion, Council member Holly Aschenbrenner moved to approve street repairs to Lakeview Street in an amount not to exceed $8,000, with funds to come from the Capital Improvement – Street fund.  Council member Dena Patee seconded the motion.  The motion carried 5-1, with Council Member Jolene Niernberger opposed.

Public Works: Repair/Maintenance

The Mack truck is in need of front and rear axle repairs.  Council member Jolene Niernberger moved to approve the repair estimate from Bruckner Truck Sales in the amount of $4,897.98 with funds to be split between the Water Utility, Special Highway, and General-Parks funds.  Council member Holly Aschenbrenner seconded the motion.  The motion carried 6-0.

REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICIALS

Public Works

Council reviewed a letter from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment regarding the reissuance of the City’s permit to discharge wastewater.  The letter recommends the City investigate and address the wastewater system’s infiltration and inflow (I&I) issues.  Mr. Scheuerman is working with Mayer Services and the Kansas Rural Water Association to detect problem areas.

Mr. Scheuerman reviewed the list of the City’s fire hydrants that have been flushed recently.  Council requested that Mr. Scheuerman share the list with the Fire Department.

Mr. Scheuerman then discussed some concerns with the recent Girl Scout event held at the campground.  Access to the men’s bathhouse was restricted and several pull-through sites were used without approval.  The Council asked for the Campground Committee to draft parameters for use of the facilities for large groups and for a letter to be drafted to the Girl Scouts.

Police

Police Chief Taft Yates presented the Monthly Activity Report for September and the October Staff Calendar.  Officers have been asked to serve snacks at a future 5^th Quarter event.  Chief Yates reported that on October 20^th two candidates will be interviewed for the open position.  The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism has restocked 600 bass in Big Creek.

City Clerk

Council reviewed the draft minutes from the Campground Committee meeting on September 24^th.  City Clerk Amy Burton requested a work session to discuss the Capital Improvement Plan.

Attorney

City Prosecutor Cassy Zeigler requested an executive session to discuss a code violation case.  Council member Bob Redger asked for City Attorney Olavee Raub to provide a status report at the next meeting regarding the water exploration land contracts.

Mayor Update and Announcements

Mayor David McDaniel and Council member Jolene Niernberger will attend the League of Kansas Municipalities Annual Conference this weekend in Topeka.  The League’s annual Regional Supper is October 24^th in Oakley.

EXECUTIVE SESSIONS

Mayor David McDaniel asked for a motion to recess into executive session at the request of City Prosecutor Cassy Zeigler.  Council member Holly Aschenbrenner moved for City Council to recess into executive session for 10 minutes to discuss a pending code violation case pursuant to the attorney-client privilege exception, K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(2) with City Prosecutor Cassy Zeigler present.  The open meeting will resume at 8:43 p.m.  Council member Bob Redger seconded the motion.  The motion carried 6-0.  No action was taken in executive session and the open meeting resumed.

EXECUTIVE SESSIONS

Mayor David McDaniel asked for a motion to return to executive session at the request of City Prosecutor Cassy Zeigler.  Council member Holly Aschenbrenner moved for City Council to recess into executive session for 10 minutes to discuss a pending code violation case pursuant to the attorney-client privilege exception, K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(2) with City Prosecutor Cassy Zeigler present.  The open meeting will resume at 8:53 p.m.  Council member Dena Patee seconded the motion.  The motion carried 6-0.  No action was taken in executive session and the open meeting resumed.

EXECUTIVE SESSIONS

Mayor David McDaniel asked for a motion to return to executive session at the request of City Prosecutor Cassy Zeigler.  Council member Holly Aschenbrenner moved for City Council to recess into executive session for 10 minutes to discuss a pending code violation case pursuant to the attorney-client privilege exception, K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(2) with City Prosecutor Cassy Zeigler present.  The open meeting will resume at 9:03 p.m.  Council member Bob Redger seconded the motion.  The motion carried 6-0.  No action was taken in executive session and the open meeting resumed.

ADJOURNMENT

Council member Bret Andries moved and Council member Bob Redger seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting.  The motion carried 6-0.  The meeting adjourned at 9:04 p.m.

 

 

TMP-M

Progress toward the construction of the Fr. Blaine Burkey Learning Commons in the summer of 2019 at TMP-Marian Catholic School is moving along nicely.

It has been nearly six months since more than $400,000 was contributed to the development of the Learning Commons at ACE 2018.

Two architects have been selected to help with the design and construction. DMA Architects, P.A., Salina, will serve as the Principal Architect with Gould Evans, Kansas City, Missouri, consulting on the design.

DMA Architects is currently completing the construction of three new ladies’ rooms on floors 1-3 and the remodeling of the men’s restroom on the first floor. We are excited to have Tony Rohr, class of 1980, and Gould Evans National Managing Principal and board member, involved in the Learning Commons design.

Friday, Sept. 28, the committee traveled to Kansas City to visit successful Learning Commons projects at St. Teresa’s Academy and Rockhurst High School, both designed by Gould Evans.

Making the trip were Nancy Flax (Art Teacher), Julia Meitner (Class of 2022), Tony Rohr (Class of 1980), Lane Werth (Class of 2020), Brenda Klaus (Class of 1981) and Troy Ruda (Advancement Director and Class of 1993).

Also serving on the Learning Commons Committee are Latisha Haag (English Teacher), Andy Tincknell (FHSU) and Chad Meitner (Principal).

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

You can start putting that unwanted junk out now for the 18th annual Hays alley cleanup which will start Mon., Oct. 22.

“This is a great opportunity to clean out your shed, attic, garage, basement or whatever else you might have,” says Marvin Honas, solid waste superintendent.

The free program is available to Hays residential refuse customers and will begin with curbside customers.

“We don’t want that stuff sitting along the streets any longer than necessary,” Honas explained.

Once the curbside collections are made, the four crews will move on to the alleys. Each site stop will be limited to 20 minutes. There is no set schedule.

Residents should sort their items into four piles:

1. Tree limbs and Brush–No longer than 12 feet in length or 6 inches in diameter

2. Construction and Demolition Debris–Lumber, drywall, bricks, sinks, tubs, wires, fencing, etc. (Please pull or bend over nails and place small quantities of concrete, bricks, and plaster in containers)

3. White Goods/Metals–Guttering, siding, washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, metal swing sets, etc.

4. Municipal Waste (All other items)–Furniture, carpet, TVs, foam, etc.

Items that will not be collected are tires, batteries, household hazardous waste, or medical waste. Tires should be disposed of at the Ellis County Landfill, and hazardous waste and batteries should be disposed of at the Ellis County Hazardous Waste Facility. Medical waste can be taken to the Ellis County Health Department.

According to Honas, the white goods will be recycled after they’re taken to the Ellis County Waste Transfer Station.

“The transfer station brings in another company that crushes this stuff and bales it  and then it is recycled.”

The trees and limbs will also have a second life.

“We do chip all the trees that we collect. The chips are taken down to the Parks Department, (1546 Highway 40 Bypass),  which uses them for their tree farm. A lot of landscapers do use the wood chips and citizens are also welcome to take them, free of charge.”

Last year’s alley cleanup yielded 850,000 pounds of junk. “We usually range between 750 and 850 thousand pounds,” Honas said, “although the first year we did this after not offering it for some time, we picked up 1.5 million pounds. It’s leveled out since then.”

Honas also noted the alley cleanup will not affect the regular collection of refuse and recyclables.

For more details, contact the Hays Solid Waste Department at 785-628-7350 or check the city’s website.

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

The fall season is in full swing this month with a calendar full of activities and event in Hays.

Melissa Dixon, Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director, has a preview of some of the fun.

For an up-to-date Calendar of Events, check the Hays CVB website, www.haysusa.net.

OPTIONS

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Throughout the month of October, Options Domestic & Sexual Violence Services will engage in a variety of events to spread awareness about the prevalence and effects of domestic violence in our community.

Kicking off the month of activities and events, Options is hosting their third annual Purple Light Nights campaign with a tree lighting ceremony to remember the victims who lost their lives from domestic violence, support those who have survived domestic violence, and bring hope for those still suffering in silence.

Purple Light Nights is the inspiration of the Covington Domestic Violence Task Force in King County, Washington, designed to bring awareness to domestic violence issues and its affects upon children and families, and provide education on building healthy relationships. The campaign challenges neighborhoods and cities to light up the town with purple lights to demonstrate that domestic violence has NO place in our community.

The Options Purple Light Nights kickoff event will be held at Big Creek Crossing, 2918 Vine, Friday, October 5 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

The event will start with a social hour that includes a display of Silent Witnesses who lost their lives due to domestic violence, free chili and cinnamon rolls donated by The Press, free coffee donated by Breathe Coffee House, and children’s activities hosted by the Lutheran Student’s Group and the Presbyterian Church.

At 7 p.m. speakers will include partners from law enforcement, HaysMed, and Jana’s Campaign – a Hays-based national education and violence prevention organization with the single mission of reducing gender and relationship violence.  The kick-off event will wrap up with a moment of silence and recognition of the families of the Silent Witnesses.

Citizens wishing to stand in solidarity against domestic violence can show their support by shining purple lights in their businesses or homes throughout the month of October. Purple light bulbs can be purchased for $2 at the Purple Light Nights kickoff event and all month long at Breathe Coffee House, Hays Academy of Hair Design, Rejuvenations Day Spa, and Options.

Other Domestic Violence Awareness Month activities include a 30-Days of Social Media mini campaign on Options Facebook page and “Paint the Town Purple” day on October 12. Community members and business are encouraged to wear purple and post a picture of their group wearing purple with a sign saying “I wear purple because…”. Pictures can be posted directly to Options Facebook page or emailed to Tim Tarkelly at [email protected].

Additionally, Gutch’s Bar & Grill, 111 W. 7th St, is promoting a “Change a Life – Make a Difference” fundraising event throughout the month of October. Patrons can tell their server that they would like to round up their change to the nearest dollar and all proceeds will support the mission of Options. Brochures and information about the impact and effects of domestic violence will be available throughout the restaurant.

If you, or someone you know, needs help because of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking, call Options free Helpline at 800-794-4624 for help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Options Domestic & Sexual Violence Services, Inc. is a non-profit agency dedicated to empowering individuals who experience domestic, sexual, interpersonal, or stalking violence through individual support while educating our communities to identify and confront the causes of violence in society. Options provides services to 18 counties in Northwest Kansas. Options voluntary services are always provided free of charge, and with complete confidentiality.

ELLIS – The interim director of Grow Hays, Doug Williams, will update the Ellis city council on economic development projects in Ellis County during tonight’s council meeting.

Council members will also consider approving an application for local incentives from Riverside Espresso & Café, LLC.

The complete agenda follows.

 

AGENDA

October 1, 2018

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF ELLIS

City Hall – Council Meeting Room

 

BILLS ORDINANCE REVIEW WORK SESSION BEGINS AT 7:00 P.M.

ROLL CALL AND MEETING CALL TO ORDER AT 7:30 P.M.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA (if needed)

• CONSENT AGENDA
  1. Minutes from Regular Meeting on September 17, 2018
  2. Bills Ordinance #2054

(Council will review for approval under one motion under the consent agenda.  By majority vote of the governing body, any item may be removed from the consent agenda and considered separately)

PUBLIC COMMENTS 

(Each speaker will be limited to five minutes.  If several people from the group wish to speak on same subject, the group must appoint a spokesperson.  ALL comments from public on agenda items must be during Public Comment.  Once council begins their business meeting, no more comments from public will be allowed.)

• PRESENTATIONS OF AWARDS, PROCLAMATIONS, REQUESTS & PETITIONS (HEARINGS)
• SPECIAL ORDER
  1. Update on Ellis County Economic Development Projects – Doug Williams, Interim Director, Grow Hays
• UNFINISHED BUSINESS
• NEW BUSINESS
  1. Consider Approval for Application for Local Incentives – Riverside Espresso & Café, LLC
  2. Consider Approval of Bids for Shop Door
  3. Consider Approval of Construction Materials and Services for South Park Bathrooms
  4. Consider Approval of Street Repairs to Lakeview Street
  5. Consider Approval of Repairs to Mack Truck
• REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICIALS
  1. Administrative
     • Public Works
       • KDHE Letter for Wastewater Treatment Permit Reissuance
       • Hydrant Flushing Update
       • Department Update
     • Police
       • Monthly Activity Report for September
       • October Staff Calendar
       • Department Update
     • City Clerk
       • Draft Minutes from Campground Committee
       • Department Update
     • Attorney
       • Update on Status of Code Violation Cases
     • Mayor Update and Announcements

EXECUTIVE SESSIONS

• ADJOURNMENT

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick, 88, the former archbishop of Washington, D.C., who resigned July 27 from the College of Cardinals after allegations he had sexually abused minors and adult seminarians, will be residing at the St. Fidelis Friary in Victoria.

According to a news release from the Salina Catholic diocese, the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. announced today that “Archbishop McCarrick will live a life of prayer and penance” and is “excluded from any public appearances and ministry.” The diocese of Salina is not incurring any costs during the arrangement.

McCarrick’s resignation was accepted July 28 by Pope Francis. McCarrick remains a priest pending the outcome of a Vatican trial.

Included in the news release is a letter from recently installed Salina diocese Bishop Gerald Vincke who explains “Why I said ‘Yes.’

Vincke’s letter is below.

By Most Reverend Gerald L. Vincke
Bishop, Diocese of Salina

“The Church needs to be open, honest and transparent.

“On September 13, 2018, I received a phone call from His Eminence, Cardinal Donald Wuerl of Washington, D.C. After brief pleasantries, he got right to the point. He asked for my permission for Archbishop Theodore McCarrick to reside at the St. Fidelis Capuchin Friary in Victoria, Kansas, to live a life of prayer and penance. Archbishop McCarrick is 88 years old. Cardinal Wuerl already received permission for this arrangement from Father Christopher Popravek, the provincial of the Capuchin Friary in Denver. I said, ‘yes.’

“I realize this decision will be offensive and hurtful to many people. Archbishop McCarrick is, in many ways, at the forefront of the recent firestorm in the Church. Many of us are confused and angry by what Archbishop McCarrick is alleged to have done several decades ago. The Holy See stated on July 28 that Pope Francis “accepted his resignation from the cardinalate and has ordered his suspension from the exercise of any public ministry, together with the obligation to remain in a house yet to be indicated to him, for a life of prayer and penance until the accusations made against him are examined in a regular canonical trial.” Please know that I agreed to this arrangement with the understanding that Archbishop McCarrick is excluded from any public appearances and ministry. Our diocese is not incurring any cost in this arrangement.

“I believe in justice. Recently, the administrative committee of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops stated their support of a full investigation into the allegations surrounding Archbishop McCarrick. The committee has recommended that the investigation be done by lay experts in relevant fields, including law enforcement and social services. Currently, a timeline for that investigation is unknown.

“I also believe in mercy. In saying “yes,” I had to reconcile my own feelings of disappointment, anger and even resentment toward Archbishop McCarrick. I had to turn to Christ for guidance. Jesus is rich in mercy. He did not come to give us permission to sin, he came to forgive our sins. We know that Christ has compassion and mercy for all who repent of their sins. The cross is a place of love and mercy. It is not a place of retribution. If our actions do not have mercy, then how can it be of the Church?

“Jesus reminds us to “be merciful, just as our Father is merciful.” Many years ago, I received a relic of Saint Maria Goretti, who was canonized in 1950. When Maria was almost 12 years old, she was attacked by a 19-year-old man named Allesandro Serenilli. After she rebuffed his sexual advances, Allessandro stabbed her 14 times. On her deathbed, Maria’s last words were, “I forgive Alessandro Serenelli … and I want him with me in heaven forever.” She forgave her assailant. Yet, there was also justice. Allesandro spent a number of years in prison. During this time, he had a deep conversion and spent the rest of his life in a monastery. I have the relic of Saint Maria Goretti beside the tabernacle in my chapel with a prayer that I say often. The opening line is “Dear Saint Maria Goretti, your heart was so full of mercy that you gladly forgave your assassin and prayed that he might be saved.” I think Saint Maria Goretti is a saint today because she forgave Allesandro.

“Sometimes, it can take a long time to forgive.

“At this time, I would like to take the opportunity to say how deeply sorry I am to all the victims of abuse. My heart aches for you and your families. I am unable to comprehend the extent of your suffering. Sadly, many times the victims did not receive an adequate response from the Church regarding the abuse they endured and the life-long pain and suffering that accompanies such evil. As a Church, we are extremely sorry and ask for forgiveness. Because of the courage and perseverance of the victims who came forward, they have become the source of much needed change in our Church and our culture. I pray that this may bring about greater purification and healing for our world.

“This is a difficult time for the Church. This purification of the Church by God is painful, but much needed. We need the eyes of faith as we suffer through this. “Faith is not a light which scatters all our darkness, but a lamp which guides our steps in the night and suffices for the journey (Lumen Fidei #57).” Jesus is with us as light in the midst of darkness.

“We trust that God will bring good out of this situation. Please join me in praying for Archbishop McCarrick as he now leads a life of prayer and penance. Most of all, let us pray for all victims of abuse so they may experience the healing presence of Jesus and the tenderness and compassion of our Blessed Mother.”

The news release also offered information for abuse victims.

“The Salina Diocese adheres to Safe Environment procedures; anyone harmed by Church personnel should immediately report the matter to the Salina Diocesan Office of Safety and Security Hotline at (785) 825-0865 or [email protected], so that the diocese can
offer assistance with healing and reconciliation.”

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Sex trafficking is on the increase in Kansas, even in Hays.

Jennifer Hecker, executive director of Options Domestic & Sexual Violence Services, told city commissioners Thursday night the local organization has joined the state’s “Demand An End” campaign. Attorney General Derek Schmidt, along with statewide partners, launched the  campaign in July. Kansas became the 11th state to join a national project that works to discourage demand for commercial sex – especially with children.

“We’re addressing the people who are purchasing sex that help to facilitate and keep that cycle of human trafficking going. As long as people are buying the services, traffickers are going to be in the market for victims,” Hecker said.

“Traffickers come to Hays to take our children, our citizens, and take them out of the state either to Colorado or to Texas. Those are the two biggest hubs.”

Options has been operating for 35 years. Through the main office in Hays and a satellite office recently reopened in Colby, the non-profit serves 18 counties in northwest Kansas, about 17,000 square miles. There is a safe shelter in Ellis County, staffed 24/7, and another shelter is planned for Colby.

“People can walk into our Hays office without an appointment and receive free, voluntary, confidential services. If transportation is an issue, we can travel to them, wherever they are in our service area,” noted Hecker.

Legal advocacy is also provided.

“We can go with people to court to support them, help them understand what their rights are,” said Tim Tarkelly, community services coordinator. “We’re not lawyers, obviously, but we have a referral process with Kansas Legal Services and we have some extra resources through the Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence.

“The same situation occurs when law enforcement calls. We respond to those. We also respond to the hospital for Sexual Assault Nurse Exams (SANE) exams,” Tarkelly added. “We can accompany survivors to any legal or medical appointment that pertains to their abuse situation.”

The number of survivors helped by Options has increased dramatically.

According to Hecker, the 20 paid staff members of Options, along with a handful of survivors, served 3,200 people last year and 7,000 so far this year.

Prior to the Hays city commission meeting, Mayor James Meier signed a local proclamation for national Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October.

KS FIRE MARSHAL

TOPEKA – A northwest Kansas rural firefighter is one of two Kansans who will be the first state-level Urban Search and Rescue canine handlers from outside of Oklahoma to graduate from the Ground Zero Emergency Training Center in Okla. City this Thursday.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) has partnered with Ground Zero to provide two Kansas Urban Search and Rescue canine handlers with dogs and specialized training. Ground Zero, a non-profit organization started by former University of Oklahoma head football coach Barry Switzer and his wife Becky, has provided dogs to Oklahoma Task Force 1, as well as numerous other teams in Oklahoma and federal teams across the country.

On Sept. 17, Kansas sent the first two handlers, Chad Winton, Wichita Fire Department/KS-TF5, and Andy Kear, Sherman County Rural Fire/KS-TF7, to Tuttle, Okla. to start an intensive two-week, handler training course where they have trained and been paired with a canine partner.  After returning to Kansas, the teams will train with other members of the Kansas Task Force K9 Unit to achieve a Type I certification in disaster search. Currently the KS-TF K9 Unit has five certified canine teams with a goal of eventually having 12 certified teams in the state.

“It is an honor to be working with an organization like Ground Zero,” Randy Hill, OSFM Search and Rescue Coordinator, said. “Kansas needs to build its cadre of canine search teams that specialize in locating victims after a disaster like a tornado or building collapse.”

While the goal is to provide deployable canine teams for the State of Kansas, Hill added, having certified disaster search dogs will be a tremendous benefit to each handler’s employer and local jurisdiction.

Ground Zero will host a “Passing of the Leash,” ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 27, at 11 a.m. During this ceremony, they will be presenting four Urban Search and Rescue canines to four canine handlers from across the United States. The ceremony will be held at the Survivor Tree in the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, the site of the 1995 bombing of the Murrah Federal Building that claimed 168 lives.  Media are encouraged to attend.

“The ceremony is important and marks the official beginning of the team’s journey of becoming another life-saving asset in disaster response,” Darrell Wilkerson, Ground Zero Program Director, said.

The handler and canine teams projected to take part in the ceremony are:

New Jersey (FEMA) Task Force (TF) 1 handler Charlie LaTerra and K-9 Ziva

Kansas TF handler Chad Winton and K-9 Sailor

Kansas TF handler Andy Kear and K-9 Zoom

Oklahoma TF-1 handler Jeff Hanlon and K-9 Finn

For more information on the Ground Zero Emergency Training Center visit www.groundzerosaveslives.com

By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

A short agenda for Hays city commissioners Thursday night includes the August 2018 financial report and three consent items:

• Release of Land Use Restriction Agreement for CedarView Assisted Living, 2929 Sternberg Drive, which is being sold
• Proposed appointment of Shelley Bryant to the Hays Public Library Board
• Approval of Cereal Malt Beverage License for Oct. 21 by St. Catherine Catholic Church during Essenfest in the former Kennedy Middle School

A progress report of recent activities in city departments will also be presented.

The entire Sept. 27 agenda may be seen here.

The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Prior to the meeting, Mayor James Meier will sign proclamations for Domestic Violence Awareness Month (Oct.) at 6 p.m., Helping People with Intellectual Disabilities Days at 6: 15 p.m. He will also sign a proclamation for Small Business Saturday.