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Blue-green algae advisories lifted for Pomona and Melvern lakes for Memorial Weekend

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has lifted blue-green algae public health advisories at Melvern Lake and Pomona Lake as of May 25, 2023. Pomona was placed under a blue-green algae warning advisory last week, while Melvern was under a watch status. With the advisories lifted for Pomona and Melvern lakes, only two other lakes in Kansas are under a warning or watch status for the Memorial Day weekend. Marion Lake and Norton Lake were both placed on the warning list Thursday.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks are responsible for issuing public health advisory updates due to harmful blooms of blue-green algae.

Lake users are advised to watch for harmful algal blooms, even on lakes that are not under advisories. Harmful algal blooms can look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water, and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away.

Algal toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols, and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (such as direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache.

Any people or dogs that come into contact with algae should rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected harmful agal bloom related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at kdhe.ks.gov/1163.

People who observe scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, should avoid contact with the water and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present.

Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

For information about blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, see kdhe.ks.gov/HAB.

Burlingame High School sends off 24 graduates with best wishes for the future

Burlingame High School class of 2023. Photo by Andy Bayless.

It was a day of thank yous, goodbyes and well wishes as 24 members of the Burlingame High School class of 2023 accepted their diplomas and started the next chapter in their life as high school graduates.

“My wish for you is that life becomes all that you want it to,” a quote from a song by the band Rascal Flatts, was echoed in sentiment by the class’s salutatorian and three valedictorians as they addressed the crowd gathered Saturday, May 13, 2023, at Burlingame Elementary School gymnasium.

Salutatorian Isabella Tyson advised her fellow graduates and underclassmen to not take time for granted.

“Enjoy where you are, look at the people around you and cherish every second with them,” the salutatorian said. “Don’t get so focused on the future that you forget to live in the present. Don’t dwell on the past that you rob yourself of any joy in the current moment. Because time is fleeting and things change so quickly. Nothing is out of reach, you can reach for the stars, and accomplish all that you put your mind to, but if there’s one thing you cannot hold onto, it’s time. It’ll slip right through your fingers. So take a moment to appreciate the people around you and to enjoy what you have while you have it.”

After offering thanks to all the people in their lives who helped the graduates reach their goal, valedictorian Alexandra Crook offered her wish for her classmates, “Throughout the many years we spent together, many laughs were shared and several wonderful memories were made. I have enjoyed getting to know you and growing up alongside you all. We have completed high school and are now moving on to the next chapter of our lives. Wherever your lives take you, I wish you all success and happiness in the world.”

Valedictorian Adaysia Gallaway wished for her classmates to have success and experience self discovery. “But most importantly, I’d like to wish for happiness,” Gallaway said. “Life is short. Everyone should take the time to find joy in the little moments. You will come to regret the moments you worked diligently focused on the future, instead of hanging out with your friends having fun in the present. I think Timothee Chalamet puts it perfectly: ‘We’re only here for so long. Be happy, man. You could get hit by a truck tomorrow.’”

Valedictorian Paloma Leyva had a different story to tell than her fellow scholars. She talked about how she came to Burlingame without knowing English, and with parents who barely knew English.

“My parents had to hire a teacher to teach me to write and speak in English,” Leyva said. “I still had my accent, so most of my classmates had no idea what I was saying. I remember that I wanted to fit in and be like everyone else, so I practiced speaking English everyday until I finally started to become fluent.”

After years of hard studying and trying to fit in, Leyva found out about the honor of being a valedictorian, “I knew I wanted that title more than anything to prove that a Hispanic student could earn such an honor.”

“I have recently started to realize that I never needed to fit in. I never needed to only speak one language. I should have never been afraid to show everyone my culture and who I really was. But now I can say that I am proud of being Hispanic and being bilingual. I hope I can inspire others so we see so many different backgrounds and have so many stories to tell at their graduation.

“To my fellow graduates, I wish you all the best of luck and I hope you one day achieve all your dreams … Go out into the world and make a difference. Remember never be afraid to show people you really are, don’t fit in, stand out.”

With presentation of the class by Burlingame Junior-Senior High School Principal Geoff Markos, USD 454 Board of Education President Melissa Droege accepted the BHS class of 2023 for graduation.

Board of education members presented diplomas to Morgyn Ann Baker, Roman Montgomery Bayless, Gabrielle Marie Bayless-Ross, Alexandra Nicole Crook, Jason Alexander Davidson, Jace Lee DeWitt, Mason Wayne Flickinger, Adysia Jeanette Gallaway, Devin Reese Hartpence, Matthew Ty Heckman, Elizabeth Gail Ledom, Tyler Lawrence Lockwood, Paloma Leyva, Kiera Lee McNellis, Colby James Middleton, Landrew Todd Mundy, Ayden Kye Rash, Gracie Ann Simmons, Branden LaVerne Taylor, Isabella Elaine Tyson, Daniel Phillip Roy Wells, Coby Eugene Woods, Cody Dean Woods, and Trapper John Wright.

The class of 2023 sponsors were Amy Heckman and Amy Tyson. Attendants for the commencement ceremony were Madison Hovestadt, Kaylin Noonan, Calvin Noonan, and Brandon Punches.

USD 454 Board of Education members include Droege, Pam Masters, vice president, Jamie Bowman, Krista Rowley, Audrey Ross, Steven Tyson, and Donna Young.

Administration for the graduates’ last year of school at BHS were USD 454 Superintendent Marcy Cassidy and Principal Geoff Markos.

BHS faculty and staff included Angela Adams, Mike Barlow, Brian Bartlett, Katie Beauclaire, Doug Bingham, Jeff Bowman, TJ Brake, Julia Bukovatz, Chris Burk, Teresa Carson, Fred Diver, Christi Droege, Mitch Foote, Robin Fruits, Melissa Hamel, Mark Hecht, Amy Heckman, Mike Higgins, Lauren Jerore, Dita Kopp, Kevin Kramer, Darin Lee, Jessica Lockwood, Calvary Lyle, Austin Masters, Brooke Masters, Bridget Middleton, Heather Morgan, Michelle Motsinger, Becky Muzzy, Lisa Obregon, Barb Peterson, Cassidy Powell, Tammy Roberts, Travisray Salyers,Roger Sells, Jon Shaffer, Angela Short, Josiah Shultz, Jacob Simmons, Jeff Slater, Aaron Staab, Megan Summers, Cheynne Swanson, Amy Tyson, Jewelie Ullery, Keri Welch, Alexia Wells, Lindsey Wendleton, Eric West, Shay West, and Katelyn Whitaker.

Santa Fe School District schedules kids summer meal program

Santa Fe School District is starting its summer meal program on May 30, 2023, served at the schools in the district. Free meals are offered to all children ages 1 to 18; meals must be consumed on site.

Meals will be served at:

  • Carbondale Attendance Center, May 30-Aug 4; breakfast 7:30-8:30 a.m.; lunch 11:15 a.m.-1 p.m. No meals July 3-4.
  • Overbrook Attendance Center, May 30-Aug 4; breakfast 7:30-8:30 a.m.; lunch 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. No meals July 3-4.
  • Scranton Attendance Center, May 30-Aug 4; breakfast 8 -9 a.m.; lunch 11 a.m.-12 p.m. No meals July 3-4.
  • Santa Fe Trail High School, May 30-July 27; breakfast only, 7:30-9:30 a.m. No meals July 3-7.

In case of severe weather and the site is closed for meal service, the public will be notified through the district’s social media. For more information, contact Tosha Smith, USD 434 registrar and food service representative, at 800-836-9525 ext. 1126.

Carbondale police to conduct holiday weekend impaired driver check lane

The Carbondale Police Department will conduct a traffic enforcement check lane over Memorial Day weekend. The purpose of the check lane is to educate the public and enforce traffic laws, including driving while impaired.

The check lane will 5 p.m. to midnight, May 26, 2023, at one of three locations: 400 block of North Topeka Avenue, 400 block of South Topeka Avenue, and the 300 block of Main Street.

All efforts will be made to limit any severe interruption of traffic flow.

For more information, contact the Carbondale Police Department, 234 Main St., Carbondale, KS 66414, or call 785-836-7377.

2023 OCHS graduates share heartfelt memories of school and community

OCHS class of 2023: Chae Allan Aills, Tomas Manuel Arellano, Owen Michael Potter Bailey, Bryson Thomas Banfield, Alexis Lynne Barrett, Landon Lucas Boss, Breckin Scot Bowin, Braxton Lloyd Bowman, Treyton Kahle Britschge, Braiden Michael-James Burd, Connor David Collins, Greta Lynette Crawford, Austin Brown Crettol, Keaton Hawk Curley, Lyia Lyn Dicker, Weston Allan Dunbar, Kaityn Michelle Gantenbein, Mason Wayne Gibson, Kyle Dean Grandstaff, Tracen James Hartner, Pearl Ann Kautzman, Kaden Thorne Kirkpatrick, Corbin Robert Klofkom, Halen James Lacey, Bryce Simon Linebarger, Nakotah Alexander Lowery, Jacob Adam Alexander McCoy, Trevor James Medlen, Dawsyn Ryan Meek, Kenia Jazzmin Mejia-Cortez, Lillian Jo Mitchell, Jack Delaney Neary, Olivia Winn Phillips, Korey Daniel Roberts, Dalton James Rush, Dalton Jones Schaefer, Ellie Marie Shoemaker, and Jacob Scott Watkins. OCHS photo.

With a community standing behind them, along with a touch of humor, Osage City High School graduates of 2023 followed the class’s motto, and gave 100 percent for the last assignment of their public school years – accepting their diplomas.

A quote from Bill Murray served as the class’s inspiration over the years: “Whatever you do, always give 100 percent. Unless you’re donating blood.”

During the graduation ceremony held Sunday, May 14, 2023, at the high school auditorium, the graduates relived school day memories, thanked those who helped them get through the years of school, and reminded each other to not forget their community that had guided and supported them.

Honor student Landon Boss told the class of 38 graduates that their small class size helped bring them together.

“I believe that our small numbers have brought us closer than any other grade,” Boss said. “We don’t have special cliques or friend groups where others aren’t welcome. Instead we are more of a family, where everyone is friends with everyone.”

Noting OCHS was “an everything school”, Boss talked about the support of the community for all of the sports seasons and related some of his best memories in participation of sports.

“I have made memories in high school that will stick with me for the rest of my life,” Boss said. “It is memories and times like these that make this class, school, town, and community so special. Memories like these that will be cherished by many for years to come. Osage City will always be a place that I hold near and dear to my heart. It is the type of school, town, and community that you want your kids to grow up in.”

Honor student Kaityn Gantenbein told of a story she had written to her senior self while in the eighth grade. Reading it as a senior made her realize “most of my heart is this school and this town…”

Reflecting on her four years of high school and 15 years living in Osage City, Gantenbein said, “For so long, I have taken for granted how special this place truly is.”

Gantebein said, “This is where my family lives … This is where my friends are … This is where my class is … This place, Osage City, Kansas, is all that I know.

“Wherever we go and whatever we do, we will always carry a part of this town and each other with us.

Revealing her emotions to her eighth grade self, she said, “To open my heart, this is what you would find – my class, this school, this town …”

Presenting the class for graduation was high school counselor Kathy Camerena, and Kelli Bowin, USD 420 Board of Education, presented diplomas to Chae Allan Aills, Tomas Manuel Arellano, Owen Michael Potter Bailey, Bryson Thomas Banfield, Alexis Lynne Barrett, Landon Lucas Boss, Breckin Scot Bowin, Braxton Lloyd Bowman, Treyton Kahle Britschge, Braiden Michael-James Burd, Connor David Collins, Greta Lynette Crawford, Austin Brown Crettol, Keaton Hawk Curley, Lyia Lyn Dicker, Weston Allan Dunbar, Kaityn Michelle Gantenbein, Mason Wayne Gibson, Kyle Dean Grandstaff, Tracen James Hartner, Pearl Ann Kautzman, Kaden Thorne Kirkpatrick, Corbin Robert Klofkom, Halen James Lacey, Bryce Simon Linebarger, Nakotah Alexander Lowery, Jacob Adam Alexander McCoy, Trevor James Medlen, Dawsyn Ryan Meek, Kenia Jazzmin Mejia-Cortez, Lillian Jo Mitchell, Jack Delaney Neary, Olivia Winn Phillips, Korey Daniel Roberts, Dalton James Rush, Dalton Jones Schaefer, Ellie Marie Shoemaker, and Jacob Scott Watkins.

KDHE places Pomona Lake under blue-green algae warning

OSAGE COUNTY, Kan. – Two Osage County lakes are now under public health advisories due to the presence of blue-green algae. Kansas Department of Health and Environment issued a warning advisory for Pomona Lake, May 18, 2023, and Melvern Lake remains under a watch advisory for a second week. The only other Kansas lake currently under an advisory, Big Eleven Lake, in Wyandotte County, was placed on watch status Thursday.

A harmful algal bloom may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure, such as direct contact, ingestion, and inhalation, but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. Anyone or their dogs that come into contact with algae is advised rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at kdhe.ks.gov/1163.

A warning status indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure.  Contact with the waterbody should be avoided. A watch status means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Signage should be posted at all public access locations.
  • Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.
  • Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.
  • Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.
  • Water contact should be avoided.
  • Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.
  • Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.
  • If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.
  • Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.

Scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or water that is an opaque green should be avoided by humans and dogs should be kept away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, see kdhe.ks.gov/HAB.

Melvern Lake blue-green algae health warning downgraded to watch status

Melvern Lake remains the only lake in the state this week under a Kansas Department of Health and Environment blue-green algae watch. The Osage County lake was put under a public health advisory last week, with that warning downgraded to a watch on March 11.

A watch status means that blue-green algae have been detected, and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation, and keep pets and livestock away from the water.

During a watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Signage should be posted at all public access locations.
  • Water may be unsafe for humans or animals.
  • Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people or pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.
  • Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.
  • Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.
  • Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.

A warning status indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.

Anyone who observes a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, is advised to avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

Weiser inducted into national collegiate honor society

Mark Weiser, of Osage City, Kan., has accepted an invitation for lifetime induction into a nationwide collegiate honor society, which recognizes high-achieving first and second-year college students with a minimum of a 3.4 GPA. Weiser is a student at Fort Hays State University, Hays, Kan., and is majoring in philosophy.

NSCS is an honors organization that invites less than 10 percent of all eligible students nationwide to join the ranks of its diverse membership each year. A leading interdisciplinary academic honor society, NSCS is made up of scholars from two-year, four-year, and online institutions.

“NSCS members’ deep commitment to service, integrity, and scholarship positively impact their campuses and local communities every day,” said Steve Loflin, the organization’s founder.

Notable NSCS distinguished honorary members include former President Jimmy Carter, U.S. Ambassador Robin Renee Sanders, the late Sen. John McCain, and former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Donna Shalala.

“We welcome Mark Weiser to our community of like-minded, high-achieving nationwide scholars,” Loflin said.

With the organization’s three pillars of scholarship, leadership, and service, membership in NSCS provides career and graduate school connections, leadership and service opportunities, professional development resources, and access to scholarships and grants.

Girl Scouts enjoy springtime with learning and fishing outings

Area Girl Scouts have some springtime activities coming up, beginning with a STEM camp June 10-11, and a fishing outing on June 24, 2023.

The STEM Camp will be 6 p.m. Saturday, June 10 to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 11 at Camp Double E, near Emporia.

During the weekend, girls will have learn how citizen scientists make observations, collect data, and work with others to receive feedback on their research. The Think Like a Citizen Scientist Journey is designed to help explore participants’ interests, gain new skills and make a difference in their communities with citizen science. There will also be games, time outside and picture taking. Scouts will be able to earn the Think Like a Citizen Scientist badge, which will be provided.

This event is for girls kindergarten age to fifth grade. Register by June 10. Camp Double E, is at 794 Road 200, Emporia, Kan.

During the “Me and My Buddy Fishing” event, 5-8 p.m. Saturday, June 24, girls will reel in their buddies, grab a chair and pole, and cast a line at Council Grove City Lake. The family event is a fishing and water safety awareness experience. The local Corps of Engineers officers will educate Girl Scouts and their families on water safety while fishing and how to have a great outdoor experience at the beautiful lake. A game warden will also be there to talk and teach about local wildlife. Poles will be available to use at this catch and release event. Participants must comply with Kansas fishing regulations and obtain a fishing license prior to the event for anyone age 16 to 74.

For more information or to register for either outing, contact Paula Roper at paularoper@att.net.

2023 graduating Trojans head out on unique paths toward success

2023 MdCV graduates Kyler Anschutz, Ryan Baker, Eian Balazs, Justin Brinkley, Katie Calderwood, Madison Cormode, Joseph Del Percio, William Glaser, Chiara Guerini, Isaac Hockett, Hailey Ingle, Lindsey Johnson, Alyssa McCurdy, Wyatt Melton, Alysa Miller, Avary Simmons, Jace Stucker, Lance Spillman, Collin Vogeler , Kyla Vogeler, Tristyn Weber, Jacob Weimer, Jessica Wheeler, Josephine Wheeler, Savannah Williams, Heaven Wilson, and Skylee  Zoesch. Photo by Jerry Kramer, Kramer Photos.

The valedictorians of Marais des Cygnes Valley High School Class of 2023 reminded their classmates they won’t have the support of each other daily as they have for the last 12 years, but their separate life journeys were just beginning.

Speaking to friends, family and classmates at the May 6, 2023, graduation ceremony, MdCV Valedictorian Madison Cormode advised fellow Trojans they had reached the milestone of “real life.”

“We were kids together,” Cormode said. “We’ve grown and soon we’ll be adults without each other.”

She spoke about graduates’ plans for the future, which “makes us sound like we’re going to be adults and it’s crazy to me to think of us that way. It’s hard for me to imagine us living by ourselves, having adult jobs, and some of us starting families in just a few years. But what’s not hard for me to imagine is how we all will succeed.”

Noting the close classmates would all be going separate directions, “let’s go and have an even better rest of our lives, because the story of ‘us’ is ending soon,” Cormode said.

MdCV Valedictorian Lindsey Johnson spoke about experiencing life’s changes with her classmates, and concurred with Cormode the longtime classmates would soon set out on different paths.

“Going through high school it is no secret that everyone changes, and the most special part is that we all change together,” Johnson said. “We may not have all been best friends all the time, but these are the people that you grow up with.”

“Our journey began years ago, today just happens to be the day where the path we were all traveling together splits into [27] unique roads. Up until this day we have been walking as one. We have done it all together, but today, we all will move on to our futures.”

With USD 456 Superintendent Joe Samples presenting the class for graduation, school board members presented diplomas to 2023 MdCV graduates Kyler Jon Anschutz, Ryan Matthew Baker, Eian Emmanuel Balazs, Justin Wade Brinkley, Katie Lynn Calderwood, Madison Grace Cormode, Joseph Caden Del Percio, William Wade Glaser, Chiara Guerini, Isaac Malachi Hockett, Hailey Lynn Ingle, Lindsey Jo Johnson, Alyssa Dayle McCurdy, Wyatt Jessie Melton, Alysa Jean Miller, Avary Grace Simmons, Jace Michael Stucker, Lance Andrew Spillman, Collin Ryan Vogeler , Kyla Joann Vogeler, Tristyn Keown Weber, Jacob Shane Weimer, Jessica Maria Wheeler, Josephine Maria Wheeler, Savannah Breann Williams, Heaven Kay Wilson, and Skylee Dawn Zoesch.

Faculty for the class of 2023 were Joy Dyke, Lora Finley, Pat Jones, Jeremy Lingenfelter, Mike McDougald, Karen Phelon, Lisa Reeser, Danny Rice, Thomas Roach, Sandy Scoggin, Mary Sumner, Thad Thurston, and Eric Vogeler. Joe Sample is superintendent and principal, Emily McCollough is academic adviser, and Kelsey Struttman and John Bass serve as secretaries.

USD 456 Board of Education members are Greg McCurdy, president, Mike Ragan, vice president, Mark Lacey, Caleb McNally, Chelsey Masenthin, Eric Struttman, and Debbie Woodson.


Summer travel season higlights cycle safety: Don’t speed, stay sober, wear a helmet

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and the end of May ushers in the unofficial start of the summer road travel season. Safe riding and driving practices, and cooperation from all road users, will help reduce the number of fatalities and injuries on our nation’s highways.

Unfortunately, data shows that motorcyclists are often overrepresented in traffic crashes and fatalities each year, and that speed and alcohol are large contributing factors. Additionally, helmet use has drastically declined in the past few years, leaving motorcyclists vulnerable to injury and death. It’s everyone’s responsibility – both the motor vehicle driver and the motorcyclist – to practice safe habits on the road and, ultimately, to “Share the Road”.

According to NHTSA data, there were 5,579 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes in 2020. Motorcyclist deaths accounted for 14 percent of the total highway fatalities in 2020. In fact, in 2020, per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclists were about 28 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a motor vehicle crash and were four times more likely to be injured.

One of the primary contributing factors to motorcyclist fatalities is speeding. According to NHTSA, 34 percent of all motorcycle riders involved (killed or survived) in fatal crashes in 2020 were speeding, compared to 22 percent for passenger car drivers, 16 percent for light-truck drivers, and 7 percent for large-truck drivers. Motorcycle riders 25 to 29 years old involved in fatal crashes had the highest speeding involvement at 45 percent.

Alcohol impairment also plays a significant role in motorcycle-involved crash fatalities: 41 percent of the 2,158 motorcycle riders who died in single-vehicle crashes in 2020 were alcohol-impaired. In 2020, motorcycle riders involved (killed or survived) in fatal crashes had higher percentages of alcohol impairment than any other type of motor vehicle driver (27 percent for motorcycle riders, 23 percent for passenger car drivers, 19 percent for light-truck drivers, and 3 percent for large-truck drivers). Forty-five percent of those killed in single-vehicle crashes on weekends were alcohol-impaired, and those killed were almost three times more frequently found to be alcohol-impaired at night than during the day (40 percent and 14 percent, respectively).

Like seat belts, helmets are a simple and effective way to reduce the likelihood of injury or death during a crash. But helmet use has declined from 69 percent in 2020 to 64.9 percent in 2021. It’s important to understand that both motorcyclists and their passengers should always wear a helmet. Helmet use among riders with passengers continued a sharp decrease at 52.1 percent in 2021. In contrast, helmet use among passengers of riders wearing DOT-compliant helmets increased significantly from 84.5 percent in 2020 to 92.1 percent in 2021.

Reading School alumni plan 2023 banquet

The annual Reading Alumni Banquet will be held Saturday, June 3, 2023, in the gymnasium.  Registration and time to mingle with friends and classmates will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the dinner at 6:30. Back by popular demand, The Miracle Cafe will be providing a delicious meal.

Special honored classes are: 1973 (50th), 1963 (60th) and 1948 (75th). Bright orange postcards were mailed to those alumni with addresses on file. Attendees are asked to bring their registration card or contact Reta (Kinslow) Jackson at PO Box 103, Reading, KS 66868, or call Reta at 620-340-5347. Anyone who attended school at Reading or served as staff are encouraged to attend.

The cost of the meal and registration for the night is $18. People are also welcome to pay at the door.

KDHE issues public health advisory for Melvern Lake due to blue-green algae

First lake in state under advisory in 2023

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have issued a public heath advisory for Melvern Lake due to blue-green algae, the first lake in the state under advisory during this year’s water recreation season.

The Melvern Lake health advisory will be lifted in consultation with the lake manager when the bloom has dissipated.

Kansans should remain vigilant while engaging in recreational activities taking place in or on the water, such as swimming, boating, and fishing.

A harmful algal bloom may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (such as direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If people or pets come into contact with algae, rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at kdhe.ks.gov/1163.

Melvern Lake, in Osage County, is under a warning or hazard status, indicating a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.

A warning status indicates conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. Contact with the waterbody should be avoided. When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Signage should be posted at all public access locations.
  • Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.
  • Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock. Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.
  • Water contact should be avoided.
  • Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.
  • Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.
  • If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.
  • Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.

The water recreation season in Kansas officially runs from April 1 to Oct. 31, along with the state’s harmful algae blooms response program’s active operations.

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, see kdhe.ks.gov/HAB.

Osage City man dies in out of control grass fire near Quenemo

The Osage County Sheriff’s Office has reported that an Osage City man died in an out of control grass fire Wednesday afternoon, near Quenemo. As fire crews were extinguishing the fire in a field, they found Leo O. Williams, 84, of Osage City, deceased.

The sheriff’s office reported that a 911 call came in at 4:25 p.m. May 3, 2023, reporting the grass fire in the 3100 block of East Highway 68, near Quenemo.

Osage County fire districts No. 7, Quenemo, No. 3, Melvern, and No. 5, Lyndon, were dispatched and responded, along with Osage County Sheriff’s deputies and investigators, and Osage County EMS. An investigator from the State Fire Marshal’s Office was requested and also responded.

Hidden History: Not forgotten, Klan congregated prejudices to fuel flames of hate

A photo of an unnamed Osage County town shows unmasked Klansmen riding horses in a parade. Osage County Historical Society photo.

Sometimes history that is hidden just means it is forgotten. Other times, history is purposefully suppressed because it is much easier to forget than to deal with it. One of those topics that has been intentionally pushed to the side is associations with the Ku Klux Klan. The Klan in Kansas found a foothold in the 1910s.

Increased immigration, along with a surge of nationalism with the first world war, provided a foundation for a resurgence of the KKK. The original Klan emerged in the South in the period following the Civil War called Reconstruction, a plan to alter the skewed social structure that existed in the South caused by slavery. The Klan used political and social terrorism to keep those of African descent in check during this period.

While Klan activities diminished after the early 1870s, memories of the organization did not. The KKK experienced a resurgence when the group was romanticized by author Thomas Dixon in his 1905 novel, The Clansman, which went on to be adapted into a motion picture called The Birth of a Nation in 1915.

The same year the movie came out, the new Klan initiated its first citizens into the “invisible empire” around a fiery cross on top of Stone Mountain in Georgia. The new Klan voiced prejudice against not only African Americans, but also Roman Catholics, Jews, individuals with low morals, or those that showed a lack of patriotism. The new iteration of the organization was much larger than the first one, gaining membership nationwide, and took hold predominantly in the rural states.

Kansas, however, fought hard to keep the Klan out of its borders. Earliest actions included the Kansas censorship bureau banning The Birth of a Nation from being shown in the state.

Kansas Tobacco Quitline: 20 years of helping Kansans quit

TOPEKA, Kan. – This year, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is celebrating 20 years of helping Kansans achieve a tobacco-free life. Since 2003, the Kansas Tobacco Quitline has provided free, one-on-one coaching for Kansans ready to quit using any form of tobacco, including vaping. Professional counseling is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in multiple languages.

Participants are matched with tailored programs designed for youth, pregnant women, American Indians, and individuals with behavioral health or substance use conditions. The Quitline can be easily reached by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visiting ksquit.org.

“Individuals who use any form of tobacco, including vaping, often try to quit multiple times before succeeding, but proven treatments, including counseling and nicotine replacement therapy, are available to improve your chances to quit for good,” said Matthew Schrock, cessation coordinator. “Quitline participants can choose a lozenge, gum, or patch that will be mailed directly to their home at no cost to help combat nicotine cravings. The Quitline will distribute the nicotine replacement therapy in two-week doses after completion of the first and second phone coaching calls.”

The Quitline’s Pregnancy and Postpartum Program offers participants a $30 Mastercard gift card for every phone coaching call completed. This program offers up to five coaching sessions during pregnancy and four sessions postpartum with the same female coach each time. Participants can also receive free text message support.

The Quitline is a proven treatment option to help Kansans stay tobacco-free. The Kansas Tobacco Quitline is available anytime and can be accessed by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669) or visiting https://kansas.quitlogix.org/. For more resources and information about tobacco use in Kansas, see kdhe.ks.gov/823.

Melvern woman dies in early morning house fire

MELVERN, Kan. – A Melvern woman died in an early morning fire at a rural residence Wednesday, the Osage County Sheriff’s Office reported.

The sheriff’s office said Debbie L. Booth, 61, was found deceased in the structure after the fire was extinguished.

A 911 call came in around 2:42 a.m. May 3, 2023, reporting the fire at the home located in the 2800 block of East 333rd Street, near Melvern.

Osage County Sheriff’s deputies, Osage County Fire District No. 3, Melvern, Osage County EMS, and Waverly Fire Department responded to the call. When deputies arrived, they reported the house to be fully involved with fire. An investigator from the State Fire Marshal’s Office was requested and responded to the scene.

Additional assistance was requested and provided by Osage County fire districts No. 7, Quenemo, and No. 5, Lyndon, and Williamsburg Fire Department.

Osage County Cemeteries: Map and list, last updated 2019

No Name No. 8 Cemetery, near Lamont Hill. Photo by Jan Williams.

In cooperation with the Osage County Historical Society, Osage County News has published online a list of Osage County cemeteries and their locations. The historical society had previously published similar information in a brochure, and volunteers of the society updated the list.

Osage County News has also created a map that shows the general locations of the cemeteries, which are listed with directions on the reverse side of the map. A printable version of the two-page map and cemetery list is available here.

When visiting the cemeteries listed, visitors are advised that some are on private property and property owners’ privacy should be respected. Not all cemeteries are located on all-weather roads, and some are in remote locations in Osage County; visitors should watch weather conditions and be aware of possible road hazards. Use of a highway map or GPS device to assist with navigation when trying to locate cemeteries is also advised.

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