Voter Reject Phillips, Hatesohl - Elect Sherow, Pepperd, Morris
Transcription
Voter Reject Phillips, Hatesohl - Elect Sherow, Pepperd, Morris
Priceless Take One T HURSDAY VOLUME 17, N UMBER 45 T HURSDAY, A PRIL 9, 2009 W INNER OF THE K ANSAS G AS S ERVICE E XCELLENCE I N E DITORIAL W RITING 2006 K ANSAS P ROFESSIONAL C OMMUNICATORS P HOTO E SSAY AWARD 2006 K ANSAS P ROFESSIONAL C OMMUNICATORS E DITORIAL AWARD Voter Reject Phillips, Hatesohl - Elect Sherow, Pepperd, Morris-Hardeman By Jon A. Brake Manhattan voters rejected the reelection bids of Mayor Hatesohl and Commissioner Tom Phillips. Commissioner Jim Sherow won re-election with the largest numbere of votes - 2,756 or 18.07%. New to the Commission will be Loren Pepperd a long time Manhattan Real Estate agent. Coming back to the Commission will be Jayme Morris-Hardeman. Hardeman was on the Commission but tied with Sherow in the last election and lost on a flip of the coin. Here are the results for all of Riley County: Riley County 2009 City/School General Elect VOTES PERCENT PRECINCTS COUNTED 58 REGISTERED VOTERS TOTAL . . . . . 33,546 BALLOTS CAST - TOTAL . . . . . . . 6,496 BALLOTS CAST LEONARDVILLE CITY. . . 52 BALLOTS CAST - MANHATTAN CITY . . . . 5,640 BALLOTS CAST - OGDEN CITY . . . . . 199 BALLOTS CAST - RANDOLPH CITY . . . . 26 BALLOTS CAST - RILEY CITY . . . . . 95 VOTER TURNOUT - TOTAL . . . . . . 19.36% Manhattan City Commissioners David D. Cook . . . 281 1.84% Mark J. Hatesohl 2,003 13.13 Jayme Morris-Hardeman 2,316 15.19 Debbie Nuss 2,194 14.39 Loren J. Pepperd 2,398 15.72 Tom Phillips 2,294 15.04 James E. Sherow 2,756 18.07 Vincent Tracey 972 6.37 WRITE-IN 36 .24 Leonardville City Mayor Mike Johnson 34 70.83% WRITE-IN 14 29.17 Leonardville City Council Vote for 3 Alicia Scofield 42 39.62% Larry H. Wendland. 33 31.13 WRITE-IN 31 29.25 Ogden City Mayor Jimmy Bond 102 52.04% Kevin P. Cheney 1 .51 Roger D. Graham 52 26.53 Wayne W. Henson 41 20.92 WRITE-IN 0 Jim Sherow Loren Pepperd Ogden City Council Vote for 5 Kenneth W. Carroll 125 17.81% Sharon S. Conger 113 16.10 Aaron Crummel 94 13.39 Robert R. Pence 126 17.95 Kevin Valvo 80 11.40 WRITE-IN 164 23.36 USD 383 School Board Member Vote for 3 Doug S. Messer 4,021 32.44% Pete Paukstelis 3,967 32.00 Walter Pesaresi 4,286 34.58 WRITE-IN 122 .98 Randolph City Mayor Vote for 1 Carl Friedrich. 24 96.00% WRITE-IN 1 4.00 Jayme Morris-Hardeman USD 384 DISTRICT 1 POSITION 4 Vote for 1 Sara Groves-Mathis Angie Pfizenmaier. WRITE-IN 0 24 96.00 1 4.00 USD 384 DISTRICT 2 POSITION 5 Randolph City Council Vote for 5 Donna G. Baer 18 19.57% Bruce L. Zimmer 20 21.74 WRITE-IN 54 58.70 Riley City Council Vote for 3 Dale Flohr 30 13.33% Garett C. M. Gabriel 54 24.00 Natalie Hirons 34 15.11 Marion J. Schrol 52 23.11 David Shover 51 22.67 WRITE-IN 4 1.78 USD 378 Position 4 Vote for 1 Mike Pachta WRITE-IN 235 97.51% 6 2.49 USD 378 Position 5 Vote for 1 Steve Reed WRITE-IN 238 95.97% 10 4.03 USD 378 Position 6 Vote for 1 Daniel L. Strom WRITE-IN 250 98.43% 4 1.57 Vote for 1 Bruce Kaump WRITE-IN 42 93.33% 3 6.67 Tom Phillips USD 384 DISTRICT 3 POSITION 6 Vote for 1 A. G. McLean IV WRITE-IN 33 100.00% 0 QUESTION NUMBER ONE MANHATTAN CITY (City Pool) Vote for 1 Yes 4,467 79.61% No 1,144 20.39 that they will never realize and can never be reversed.’‘ The unraveling of the case overshadowed the facts of a trial in which Stevens was shown to have accepted thousands of dollars in undisclosed gifts. Sullivan appointed Washington attorney Henry Schuelke to investigate contempt and obstruction by the Justice Department team. Schuelke is a former prosecutor and veteran defense attorney who oversaw a Senate Ethics Committee investigation into influence-peddling allegations against former New York Sen. Alfonse D’Amato in 1989. Sullivan said the misconduct was too serious to be left to an internal investigation by the Justice Department, which he said dragged its feet before investigating. He criticized former Attorney General Mark Hatesohl Michael Mukasey for not responding to complaints: ``Shocking, but not surprising,’‘ Sullivan said. He worried aloud about how often prosecutors withhold evidence, from Guantanamo Bay terrorism cases to public corruption trials. He called on Holder to retrain all prosecutors in the department. Biographical Sketches Of Lawyers By The Associated Press Biographical sketches of six federal prosecutors under investigation for mishandling the trial of former Sen. Ted Stevens. BRENDA MORRIS: A longtime prosecutor with the Justice Department’s Public Integrity Section, Morris now serves as its principal deputy. She helped supervise the investigation into disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff and has prosecuted corruption cases around the country. She teaches corruption investigations within the Justice Department and is a professor at Georgetown Law School. A graduate of Howard University law school, she served as the lead attorney in the Stevens trial, giving the government’s opening statement and cross-examining Stevens. NICHOLAS MARSH: One of two Public Integrity trial attorneys on the case, Marsh handled much of the courtroom work during the trials of Alaska lawmakers caught up in the scandal. He has been part of numerous other public corruption investigations, including a scheme in Mississippi to defraud a $400 million fen-phen settlement fund. An FBI whistleblower accused Marsh of intentionally withholding evidence from Stevens and sending a witness back to Alaska during trial to prevent potentially damaging testimony. The prosecution team denies those accusations. JOSEPH BOTTINI: An assistant U.S. attorney in Alaska, Bottini was a key figure in the Stevens case. He questioned the government’s star witness, Bill Allen, and delivered the second half of the government’s closing argument. Much of Allen’s testimony had been discredited. The contempt investigation will look into whether prosecutors knew there was evidence of inconsistencies in Allen’s statements but concealed it. Bottini graduated from California Western School of Law. WILLIAM WELCH: The chief of the Public Integrity section, Welch supervised the Stevens case but did not participate in the trial. He has supervised every major public corruption case brought by the department in the last several years. By Katie Mayes KSU News Service Kansas State University is inviting everyone to campus to experience university life firsthand, just as it has for the last three decades. K-State’s All-University Open House, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 18, will allow visitors to experience what life is like on the K-State campuses in Manhattan and Salina. Exhibits, entertainment and tours will show what each of the university’s colleges and programs has to offer future students, as well as what current students are learning. Open house is free and everyone is invited. Each college will offer an array of demonstrations and activities, many of them interactive and kid-friendly. An abundance of food and entertainment also will be available. For incoming or prospective students, college representatives will be on hand to answer questions and provide information about the more than 250 majors and options at K-State. Walking tours of the campus will also leave every half hour from the admissions booth in the K-State Student Union. The 1 p.m. tour will be conducted in both English and Spanish. The residence halls, Jardine Apartments and K-State’s fraternity and sorority houses also will provide information and conduct tours. Kids can bring their “ailing” stuffed animals to be diagnosed at the stuffed animal clinic in Mosier Hall or watch soda pop geyser demonstrations outside Call Hall every half hour from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. On the ground floor of the Union, the women’s studies program is providing kids with gingerbread The Fifth Annual Poetry Recitation Festival, in honor of Enid Stover, will be held Saturday, April 25, from 2:00 – 4:00 in the Rose Garden of the Manhattan City Park. Everyone is invited to share their favorite poems from memory and listen to others recite theirs. The event is free and people of all ages are invited. Stevens Case: Lawyers Face Criminal Probe WASHINGTON (AP) _ A seething federal judge dismissed the corruption conviction of former Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens on Tuesday and took the rare and serious step of ordering a criminal investigation into prosecutors who poisoned the case. ``In nearly 25 years on the bench, I’ve never seen anything approaching the mishandling and misconduct that I’ve seen in this case,’‘ U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan said. Sullivan appointed a special prosecutor to investigate Justice Department lawyers who repeatedly withheld evidence from defense attorneys and the judge during the monthlong trial. Stevens was convicted in October of lying on Senate forms about home renovations and gifts he received from wealthy friends. The case cost Stevens, 85, a Senate seat he had held for 40 years. Once the Senate’s longest-serving Republican, he narrowly lost to Democrat Mark Begich soon after the verdict. Now, the case could prove career-ending for prosecutors in the Justice Department’s public corruption unit. After Sullivan dismissed the case, Stevens turned to his friends and held up a fist in victory as his wife and daughters broke into loud sobs. ``Until recently, my faith in the criminal system, particularly the judicial system, was unwavering,’‘ Stevens told the court Tuesday, his first public comments since Attorney General Eric Holder announced he would drop the case. ``But what some members of the prosecution team did nearly destroyed my faith. Their conduct had consequences for me K-State Open House Will Be April 18th women to decorate, and the geology department will have a full-size cast of a Tyrannosaurus Rex skull on display. At 10 a.m. and noon the chemistry department will put on a glassblowing demonstration in 114 Willard Hall. The department of military science will have a rock-climbing wall at the Bosco Student Plaza all day long. Entertainment will include the Kansas City Marching Cobras, who will perform at 12:15 p.m. on the Bosco Student Plaza. Other live entertainment will be available throughout the day on the plaza, including the K-State Singers, a cappella group Cadence and bands McCoy and Kiss and Tell. Open house also means plenty of food as various groups will feed the public’s hunger for both information and good eats, like pigging out on a pork burger at Swine Practitioners Club booth or trying the insect cuisine to be offered at K-State’s Insect Zoo. For those who can’t make it to campus, students in K-State’s A.Q. Miller School Journalism and Mass Communications will be producing live reports about open house activities. The reports, which will be available twice an hour from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., will be broadcast on Cox Cable channel 8 in the ManhattanJunction City area and also will stream live on the Internet at http://ome.ksu.edu/webcast/live.ram A complete list of events and activities at K-State’s All-University Open House is available at: http://consider.k-state.edu/openhouse Fifth Annual Poetry Festival QUESTION NUMBER TWO MANHATTAN CITY (Northview Pool) Vote for 1 Yes 4,000 71.76% No 1,574 28.24 QUESTION NUMBER THREE MANHATTAN CITY (Zoo Building) Vote for 1 Yes 3,412 61.04% No. 2,178 38.96 W INNER OF THE K ANSAS P RESS A SSOCIATION A DVERTISING AWARD A former prosecutor in Springfield, Mass., Welch prosecuted former veterans hospital nurse Kristen Gilbert for killing four patients by injecting them with a heart stimulant. A graduate of Northwestern University Law School, Welch has been mentioned as a possible candidate for the U.S. attorney job in Massachusetts. EDWARD SULLIVAN: The other Public Integrity trial attorney in the case, Sullivan has been part of the trial team that won convictions of several Alaska lawmakers caught up in the corruption scandal. But he played a mostly behindthe-scenes role in the Stevens trial and his role in preparing the mishandling of evidence is unclear. JAMES GOEKE: An assistant U.S. attorney in Alaska, Goeke also had a largely behind-the-scenes role in the Stevens trial. He has been a key figure in the prosecution of other politicians wrapped up in the Alaska corruption scandal. Light refreshments will be served and there will be certificates for all participants. There will also be a gift drawing. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. In case of rain, the event will held in the auditorium of the Manhattan Public Library. For further information, contact Martha Seaton at 537-0936. Shootout At Waterville Join the The Bart Plasterson Gang, professional re-enactors, on the Central Branch Rails for a rootin’, tootin’ ride to the cowboys’ town of “Somewhere” west of Waterville. Witness a cowboy shootout and fun on the rails on Victorian Day in Waterville on Saturday, April 25th from 10:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, April 26th, join the gang for a church service out at “Somewhere”. Meet at the Waterville caboose at 9:45 a.m. or if inclement weather, the service will be in the Waterville Opera House. Rides to “Somewhere” resume after the service. Tickets for the ride will be sold at the Waterville caboose: adults $5.00 and children $3.00. Call for informa- Parkinson Here April 13 Kansas Lieutenant Governor Mark Parkinson will be the guest speaker at the April 13 meeting of the Riley County Democratic Party. The announcement was made today by party chairperson Kathryn Focke. Parkinson was elected Lieutenant Governor in 2006 as the running mate of Governor Kathleen Sebelius. Parkinson’s name has recently been more prominent in state political discussions since he is slated to become Governor if Sebelius is confirmed as Health and Human Services Secretary by the U.S. Senate, which failed to reach consensus on Sebelius’ confirmation last week before beginning a twoweek Congressional Easter recess. “This may very well be one of Mr. Parkinson’s last appearances as Lieutenant Governor before he becomes the state’s 45th governor,” said Focke. “We are honored to have him speak here in Manhattan.” Parkinson, who is the former Kansas Republican Party chairman, left the GOP in 2006 to serve as Sebelius’ running mate when thenLieutenant Governor John Moore announced his retirement. Parkinson entered politics in 1990, when he was elected to the Kansas House of Representatives. He was then elected to the Kansas Senate in 1992, where he served one term before becoming state GOP chairman in 1999. “Lieutenant Governor Parkinson has an incredible record of working with Democrats and Republicans on important issues that Kansans most care about,” said Focke. “He is a businessman who has worked hard for economic development, and he has been an advocate for Kansas schools, health care and other topics that are important to the Kansas economy.” The Democrats will meet this month at the Blue Hills Room, located in the Blue Hills Shopping Center at the corner of Kimball and Tuttle Creek Boulevard. Focke said a buffet will be served for $15 per person. The Blue Hills Room will open at 6:00, and the meal will begin at 6:30. Parkinson’s address will be at 7:00 p.m. Advanced reservations are required and must be made by 5:00 Friday afternoon with party treasurer Katha Hurt at 776-1075. NEWS 2A MANHATTAN FREE PRESS - THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2009 Obituaries William Allen William E. Allen (Lt. Col. Retired), born in Ogden, Kansas, on November 23, 1929, passed away in his home in Wamego, Kansas, on March 31, 2009. William was the first child born to William B. and Goldie A. Allen, both were longtime residents of Ogden, KS. He attended his first 8 years of school in a four room grade school, then attended Manhattan High School, via Mr. Abbott’s bus, graduating with the class of 1947. William then attended Kansas State University completing a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering while also Dennis George Dennis J. George, Sr., 81, Manhattan, passed away Thursday, April 2, 2009 in his home. He was born December 13, 1927 at Crosby, MN, the son of Nathan John George and Daisy Sarah Trana George. He grew up in Crosby, where he attended the local schools, and was a 1946 graduate of the Crosby High School. He joined the U.S. Army, shortly after high school, and spent over 20 years in the service, being discharged as a Staff Sergeant in August 1967. He served during the Korean Conflict and also had tours in Japan and three to Germany. He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Melody Nicholson Melody G. Nicholson, 66, of Manhattan, Kansas died Thursday, April 2, 2009 at home surrounded by family. She is survived by her husband Howard B. Nicholson, daughter & son-in-law Dee & Gary Wileman, son Alan Nicholson and son Stephen Nicholson all of Manhattan, KS. Melody was born October, 4 1942 in Houston, TX, daughter of Orville B. Gilbert and Catherine M. (Harrell) Gilbert. Melody attended grade school at St. Christopher Catholic School in Houston, TX. After surviving Rheumatic Fever, she gradu- Ada Ella Townsend Ada Ella Townsend, age 85, of Manhattan, Kansas, died Wednesday, April 1, 2009, at the Mercy Regional Health Center in Manhattan. She was born on June 16, 1923, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, the daughter of Victor T. and Thelma (Grant) Morgan. During World War II she served with the WAC in the Pacific Theater. Ada lived most of her adult life in Overland Park, Kansas and had been a Manhattan resident for the past four years, residing at Stoneybrook Michael Weisbender I Michael L. Weisbender I, age 71, of Manhattan, died April 4, 2009, at Mercy Regional Health Center in Manhattan. He was born August 4, 1937, in Manhattan, Kansas, the son of A.J. and Violet Elizabeth (Kramer) Weisbender. He graduated from Msgr. Luckey High School in Manhattan. Mike joined the United States Navy at the age of 17 and served for four years. He then was a journeyman lineman for Capitol Electric and was a member of IBEW #304. For the past 28 years he was the owner and operator of Ole’ Mike’s Shooters Supply and Tackle in Manhattan. He was a lifetime member of Seven Dolors Catholic Church, a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, National Rifle Association and the Riley County Fish and Game Association. He was a member of the American Legion and a 29 year member of Alcoholics Anonymous. He was married to Linda L. Wenrich on June 6, 1959. They later divorced. He married Shirley J. Hosler on September 6, 1987, in Manhattan. She survives of the home. Additional survivors include his mother Violet E. Weisbender of Manhattan; seven children: Kaylinda Smith and her husband Thomas of Las Vegas, Nevada, Debra Dubois and her husband Ron of Deltona, FL, Michael L. Weisbender II and his wife Kimber of Wamego, Debra Johnson and her fiancé Brad Butler of Lee’s Summit, MO, Mark Muto and his wife Resia of Junction City, KS, Andrea Schneider and her husband Dave of Topeka, KS, and Dawn Goscha and her husband Paul of Manhattan; seven brothers and one sister: Carl Weisbender of Flush, Teresa Gunther of Manhattan, John receiving 2nd Lt. Commission through the Air Force ROTC, all in May 1951. His first assignment was to the Engine Buildup Section at Hill A.F.B., Utah, in May 1951. Soon after, he was assigned to UCLA in Meteorology. Before school started, he married Donna R. Diegleman on August 31, 1951, in Yuma, AZ. After two semesters and two summer schools, he was assigned to Smoky Hill A.F.B., Salina, KS, as a weather forecaster. Their daughter, Danette, was born there during this time. Early in 1953, William was stationed in London, England, for reassignment to Wethersfield, A.F.B. as a weather forecaster. While in London, he was able to attend the Queen’s Coronation. His wife, Donna, eventually joined him at Wethersfield and toured Europe by car. The couple purchased a four room prefab at a place called Mushroom Farm, and bought a Morris Minor car. Learning to drive on the left hand side of the road was fun. After three fun years, they left England in May 1956, for pilot training at Hondo A.F.B., Texas, training in T-34’s and T-28’s. During this time, their first son, William, was born, and after six months, they were stationed to Enid, A.F.B., Oklahoma, to complete pilot training in B-25’s, finishing fourth in his class. Once again, reassignment took the family to Travis A.F.B., California, where William successfully completed his C97 training spending three months at West Palm Beach A.F.B. He spent three years flying missions over the Pacific before being reassigned to Forbes A.F.B., Topeka, as a Staff Weather Forecaster and also flew the T-33. It was there that their second son, David, was born. After two years, he was reassigned to Moody A.F.B, Georgia, as a Weather Instructor and an inspector pilot. He flew the T-37 and T-38, and became Chief of Academic Training. After four years, the family was reassigned the Purple Heart and the Silver Combat Star with five bronze clusters. He was united in marriage to Victoria “Vicki” M. Sumbs on August 25, 1951 at Crosby. She survives of the home. Mr. George had lived in Killeen, TX from 1958 until moving to Manhattan in 1974. Since living in Manhattan, he had worked as a loan manager for the Liberty Loan Company from 1974-1982 and spent 13 years in the building maintenance department for the City of Manhattan. He retired in 1989. He was a member of the Seven Dolors Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Council No. 1832, Pearce-Keller American Legion Post No. 17 and the Lee Pierson V.F.W. Post No. 1786, all of Manhattan. In addition to his wife, Mr. George is survived by two sons, Dale R. George, and his wife, Brenda, Lathrop, MO and Douglas E. George, and his wife, Tina, San Antonio, TX; two daughters, Deborah A. Price and Doreen M. Ray, and her husband, Charles, all of Manhattan; 17 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and one great great grandchild. He was preceded in death by a son, Dennis J. George, Jr. on July 31, 2005; a daughter, Donna M. George on November 2, 2008; his parents; three brothers, Nathan, Jack and Edwin George; and a sister, Violet Dupre. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Monday, April 6, 2009 in the Seven Dolors Catholic Church, Manhattan with Father Joseph Popelka as celebrant. Burial, with full military honors, will follow in the St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery, east of Manhattan. A Rosary was recited at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, April 5, 2009 in the IrvinParkview Funeral Home, Manhattan. The family receiveed friends following the rosary. Memorial contributions can be made to the Knights of Columbus and left in care of the funeral home. Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com. ated in 1962 from Jesse H. Jones High School in Houston, TX and then attended St. Mary’s Nursing School in Galveston, TX. Melody and her husband met at a pool party in 1965 and were married on April 20, 1967. They lived in Houston & Dallas, TX, South Charleston, WV, Atlanta, GA, Carlsbad, NM and Leawood, KS before settling in Manhattan, KS in 1999. She was a homemaker most of her life and enjoyed spending time with her family. Melody will also be deeply missed by her grandchildren, Jakobi, Alorrah and Ewan. Melody’s favorite holiday was Christmas. Because Melody was family oriented she was also the center of the home and coordinator of all family events. Her most cherished times with her grandchildren were watching movies with them all, eating breakfast with Ewan, having tea parties with Alorrah and Jakobi getting to spend the night with her at home or in the hospital. Her hobbies also included reading novels, watching old movies and listening to a wide range of music genre. Melody the oldest of six sisters, is survived by Michelle E. Teter of Thicket, TX, Danielle Holloway of Cypress, TX and Stephanie Gilbert- Murray of Taos, NM. Some of her most memorable times with her sisters were playing cards, singing and cooking. Funeral services was held at 10:30a.m. Monday, April 6, at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan. The Rev. Don Zimmerman officiated. Burial followed at Sunrise Cemetery and continue services at St. Thomas More Catholic Church. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation or St. Thomas More Catholic Church, and those may be sent in care of the funeral home. North Assisted Living. She graduated from Johnson County Community College with an Associate of Arts degree in Commercial Art. She was a highly talented and creative fiber and textile artist, showing her work at numerous juried art shows and arts and crafts festivals throughout the region, with the Renaissance Festival being one of her favorites. She shared her passion for spinning, dying with natural dyes, weaving, knitting, embroidery, macramé, and more by teaching hundreds of adult education classes and workshops over the years and writ- ing a column titled “Of Needles and Threads” for the Johnson County Herald. Ada was a long-time member of the Weavers Guild of Greater Kansas City. Ada loved books and reading and volunteered at the Johnson County Public Library for many years. She also was active in the League of Women Voters of Shawnee Mission and with the Shawnee Mission Unitarian Universalist Church and Johnson County Unitarian Fellowship. She is survived by one daughter, Joy Mills and her husband Ed of Santa Clara, California and by two sons: Clark Townsend of Olathe, Kansas and Harvard Townsend and his wife Dana of Manhattan, Kansas. Also surviving are two brothers: Victor Morgan of St. Petersburg, Florida, Richard Morgan of North Muskegon, Michigan, and five grandchildren: Sarah, Michael and Daniel Townsend and Morgan and Ben Mills. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, May 2 at 3:00 p.m. at the Shawnee Mission Unitarian Universalist Church in Overland Park, Kansas, with an opportunity for family and friends to share their memories of Ada. On-line condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website located at www.ymlfuneralhome.com The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas is handling the arrangements. Weisbender of Knob Noster, MO, Russel Weisbender, David Weisbender, Timothy Weisbender and Richard Weisbender all of Manhattan; 24 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren and one more on the way. Numerous nieces and nephews. Michael was preceded in death by his father; three children: Steven, Mary and Angela Weisbender; and one sister in law, Vickie Weisbender. Mass of the Christian Burial was held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday at the St. Joseph Catholic Church at Flush with Father Loren Werth as Celebrant. Cremation followed the services. Lunch followed the mass provided by the Ladies Auxiliary. Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX, the Riley County Fish and Game Association or the Tuttle Creek Lake Association for the youth fishing clinic. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-MeloanLondeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502. to Charleston A.F.B, S.C., where William piloted the C-124 all over the world, and finished his Air Force career flying the C-141, until retiring as Lt. Colonel in May 1971. He then relocated his family to Manhattan, KS, and returned to Kansas State University where he completed his Masters degree in math and certification as a high school math teacher. After teaching six years at St. George High School, he became Principal of the same school and served in that position for 11 years. William wanted to pass on his thanks to the people of St. George for entrusting him with their children’s education. It was his wish to also thank his wife, Donna, for 57 years of loving care and understanding. He is also survived by seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His special prayer is: May the Lord rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the warm sun shine on your face. And the soft rain fall on your fields, Until we meet again, may the Lord Hold you in the palm of his hand. Mid-America Office Supplies Printer/ Typewriter Ribbons “oldie’s too” 328 Poyntz (Downtown) 539-8982 Have You Seen What The Free Press Said? & ASSOCIATES, INC 720 POYNTZ AVENUE MANHATTAN, KS 66502 (785)539-7576 Serving your insurance needs BEST Manhattan Shoe Repair Cremation is planned with private family services at a later date. Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com. Independent Insurance Agent Repairing •Shoes • Boots • Purses •Luggage • Harnesses •Back Packs •Leather Coats 216 South 4th, Manhattan, Ks VFW Plaza 776-1193 The Free Press Is Brought To You By These Advertisers RODS • SHADES • DRAPERIES • BLINDS FABRIC BY THE YARD IN HOME CLEANING OF FABRIC WINDOW COVERINGS n tt n rry Ro d ns s - Drapery World and Blinds Tom Deaver On Site Manager - Good Security Fence Open 7 Days All Sizes - Competitive Prices “We measure and install” and “Brighten insides” Phone (785) 537-4260 Toll Free - 1-800-515-9478 317 Poyntz Manhattan, Kansas 66502 Take a Pal Shooting With this coupon and one paid admission two may shoot! Pistol and Rifle Ranges open 4th thursday - the first and third full weekends each month,10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. FANCY CREEK RANGE At Fancy Creek State Park, Randolph Kansas See past issues of The Manhattan Free Press at: manhattanfreepress.com 299 Sarber Ln 539-1040 NEWS 3A MANHATTAN FREE PRESS - THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2009 Now That’s Rural Free Weight Loss Consultation Kansas Profile: David And Laurel Littrell By Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University. What do a 65-piece orchestra, three horses, and a one-room schoolhouse have in common? The answer is, they represent the intersection of interests of the remarkable couple we will meet today. This couple´s project, called Cedar Vista, will combine equestrian and music education in a beautiful, rural setting. David and Laurel Littrell are the owners of Cedar Vista. David says he is a city boy, having grown up as a professor´s son in Manhattan, Kansas. His career in music and higher education took him to such cities as Austin, Evansville, and Denver, where he played cello in the symphony. In 1987, he returned to K-State to join the music faculty. Today, he is University Distinguished Professor of Music and conductor of the KState Orchestra. His wife Laurel is from rural Kansas. She grew up north of Clifton, a town of 542 people. Now, that´s rural. She was active in 4-H and always had horses as a child. She and David were living in Manhattan but Laurel was thinking about how nice it would be to have a place in the country. Laurel was rid- Ron Wilson ing horses at a stable northeast of town in Pottawatomie County. One day the horse she was to ride had thrown a shoe, so with extra time on her hands, she took a back road back to town. She passed a "for sale" sign and sure enough, she and David ended up buying that place. They now live there with three horses. Just a half-mile from their new home stood an abandoned one-room schoolhouse near a former riding arena that had been operated by the former Manhattan Round-Up Club. David and Laurel became intrigued by that property. They saw how it could be used to enhance their interests in both horses and music. David says, "I had the audacity to ask if they would donate the property for this purpose, and eventually they agreed." The Round-Up Club reconstituted itself and donated the property for equestrian and music education uses. The site includes the historic Cedar Creek Schoolhouse, a native stone building which was built in 1885 and used as a school until 1937. David says, "Fortunately the RoundUp Club had put on a tin roof and a neighbor, Jerry Dixon, covered the windows with wood. Otherwise, the building probably wouldn´t have survived." Pack rats and vandals had seriously damaged the building, although it remains structurally sound. David has spent more than 1,500 hours clearing brush, cleaning the arena, and repairing and repainting the schoolhouse. He sees the opportunity to benefit another project called the Gold Orchestra. The Gold Orchestra is a youth string orchestra which originated in 1989. David says, "Some parents twisted my arm into starting a youth orchestra. It began with seven kids. I thought I might do it for five weekends in one year." Instead, it proved so successful that it continues today, with some 65 youthful performers. The Gold Orchestra has become nationally acclaimed. They have performed as far away as England and Carnegie Hall. David´s vision is to use the schoolhouse for his orchestra camp and music classroom. Members of the Gold Orchestra helped David clean the schoolhouse and pasture. In July 2008, about 30 Gold Orchestra members were able to use the newly cleaned and painted schoolhouse for orchestra rehearsals. The Littrells have installed a new pump for the well and are bringing in electricity. Laurel is planning equine educational events which will utilize the arena. David has built a small barn and tackroom. Their long-term vision includes a facility for outdoor concerts. And what does the onetime city boy say about all this? David says, "As soon as we moved out here, I loved it. I would never go back to a big city." So what do a 65-piece orchestra, three horses, and a one room schoolhouse have in common? They have come together to create an opportunity for kids to learn. We salute David and Laurel Littrell and the former Manhattan Round-Up Club for making a difference by supporting this opportunity. Cedar Vista is becoming a place where classic music can have a great ride. Call Connie at 785-537-4447 16.95 2828 Amherst • Manhattan, KS • 800-365-0017 Expires 5/15/09 Expires April 10th, 2007 KSU Theater Presents “The Cherry Orchard” By: Megan Wilson KSU News Service The theater program at Kansas State University will present “The Cherry Orchard” by renowned Russian playwright Anton Chekhov at 7:30 p.m. April 23-25 and April 29-May 2 in Nichols Theater. “The Cherry Orchard,” Chekhov’s last masterpiece, combines farcical and serious elements to present audiences with a poignant reflection on the past and a hopeful dream of the future. The play’s setting in Russia at the turn of the century resonates with the current era, with the characters, like people today, experiencing changes in society and international relations. “The Cherry Orchard” tells the story of an aristocratic family overcome by debt and forced to auction off their estate along with its beautiful historic cherry orchard as the impending Russian revolution looms on the horizon. The play was first produced by the Moscow Art Theatre in 1904 under the direction of Students In Alternative Spring Break Projects By: Nellie Ryan KSU News Service Spring break 2009 was a time for several Kansas State University students to take part in alternative spring break community service projects coordinated by K-State’s School of Leadership Studies. Three different community service destinations were offered. In Chicago, K-State students worked alongside students from the University of Kentucky to assist urban youth at the James R. Jordan Boys and Girls Club. The students also served at the Greater Food Depository, packaging more than 2,000 pounds of pasta to be redistributed to multiple food banks and shelters across Chicago and the Cook County region. For the seventh consecutive year, KState students helped provide support to AIDS Services of Dallas, a nonprofit organization that provides medically supportive housing to low-income people and families impacted by HIV/AIDS. Students assisted with an annual fundraising event. They also helped build a new fence at the housing site. In Phoenix, students worked with the Welcome Home Project, a program of the Save the Family Foundation, an organization dedicated to help break the cycle of poverty, abuse and homelessness. Student volunteers prepared two homes for homeless families to move into by painting the interiors, cleaning and completing some exterior work. K-State students participating in the alternative spring break projects, their major, hometown and spring break location include: Ben Knoll, junior in arts and sciences-open option, Baldwin City, Phoenix; Megan Schmidt, junior in political science, Burlington, Chicago; Anna Rogers, sophomore in microbiology and premedicine, Clyde, Dallas; Haley Compton, sophomore in political science and pre-journalism and mass communications, Elk City, Phoenix; Kasi Wyatt, junior in family studies and human services, Ellis, Dallas. From Greater Kansas City: Lecretia Morrison, graduate student in architecture, Kansas City, Mo., Chicago; Ariel Anib, sophomore in sociology and prelaw, Chicago, and Derrik Wiggins, freshman in arts and sciences-open option, Chicago, both from Olathe; and Jacob Devolder, senior in biology and pre-medicine, Dallas, and Kelsey O’Hara, sophomore in electrical engineering, Chicago, both from Shawnee. David Bartlett, senior in communication studies, Hutchinson, Chicago. From Manhattan: Josiah Cox, senior in biology and premedicine, Dallas; Jennifer Dawson, sophomore in preprofessional elementary education, Phoenix; Kristi Mendenhall, sophomore in family studies and human services, Phoenix; Michael Smith, graduate student in psychology, Chicago; and Russell Young, junior in information systems, Phoenix. Amanda Bisnett, senior in management, Meriden, Phoenix; Logan Jones, junior in family studies and human services, Newton, Phoenix; Kate Glanville, junior in agronomy, Oskaloosa, Dallas; Miranda Everhart, sophomore in microbiology and premedicine, Salina, Dallas; Valerie Mahoney, senior in political science, Phoenix, and Natalie Umberger, junior in family studies and human services, Phoenix, both from Wichita; and Caitlin Muret, senior in mass communications, Winfield, Phoenix. Konstantin Stanislavski, whose new approach to a realistic style of performance paved the way for all the variations of method acting that are the current standard in theater, film and television. Charlotte MacFarland, associate professor of theater, directs the KState production. Scenic design is by Kathy Voecks, assistant professor of theater. The costumes are designed by Jason Bishop, a guest artist who received his master of fine arts in costume design from the University of Washington in Seattle. He is currently based in New York and has received numerous awards for his designs for regional and offBroadway theaters. He also has been a design assistant and member of the wardrobe crew for the Broadway shows “Jersey Boys” and “White Christmas.” Tickets are $8 for students, $11 for military and $13 for the general public. They can be purchased at the McCain box office from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays or at the K-State Student Union’s Little Theatre box office from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. For group discounts, call Marci Maullar at 785532-6878. Tickets also can be ordered by phone at 785-532-6428 during box office hours. K-State students participating in the production of “The Cherry Orchard” include: From Greater Kansas City: Meredith Lindsey, junior in theater and mass communications, Leawood, as Charlotta Ivanovna; Kate Hambleton, sophomore in theater, as Anya, and Meghan Newman, senior in theater and modern languages, as Varya, both of Olathe. Kurt Fenster, senior in theater, Healy, as Simeonov-Pishchik; Maurice Dokes, junior in theater, Junction City, station manager; Charles Sutterlin, senior in theater, as Firs, and Ross Hasler, junior in theater, lighting design, both of Manhattan; Lauren Perez, junior in theater, Parsons, as Dunyasha; and Robert Wighs, senior in theater, Salina, as Pyotr Trofimov. From Topeka: Dillon Artzer, sophomore in theater, as Yepikhodov; Caroline Dittamo, sophomore in theater, assistant stage manager; Kyle Myers, sophomore in theater, as Gayev and Leonid Andreyevich; and Michael Wieser, senior in theater, as Lopakhin. Alex Dryden, senior in theater, Wichita, as Yasha. From out of state: Zachery Roland, senior in communication studies, Longmont, Colo., as servant and vagrant; and Mackenzie Goodwin, junior in theater and modern languages, Omaha, Neb., as Madame Ranevskaya. We specialize in doing new construction, kitchen and bath remodels, furnace, air conditioner and geothermal installs, water heaters, Northstar water softeners, Pex tubing, galvanized water line change outs, and repairs on all models of furnaces and air condtioners. Call for your free estimate on replacements Since 1942 8838 Quail Lane, Manhat ta n EDITORIAL 4A MANHATTAN FREE PRESS - THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2009 Thoughts From The Prairie Easter Story for My Grandchildren “Opa, it’s been three months since the Christmas story and you said there was another story for another day,” quipped Luke. “Yes, Opa, and this is another day,” reasoned Tate. ‘Tis another day for sure. Drag up a beanbag and we’ll give it a go. When we left off with the Christmas story, Prince had just arrived as a baby in the manger. But remember, that old villain Coo had been the Kings chief operating officer way back in eons past, but his beauty and power got the best of him and he and a host of other traitors rebelled against the King. That got him and his traitors booted out of heaven down to Earth where he tricked Man and Woman into eating the poison fruit and got them booted out of the Garden. Man’s disobedience brought chaos on all the earth and Man and Woman were banished from the Kingdom, never to see the King again, right? “Opa, you told us the King and Prince worked out a plan and that the Prince was in the manger getting ready to go on a dangerous rescue mission!” That’s right! You remembered! Well, the Prince grew up a strapping young lad in a carpenter’s shop and I’m sure he was a terrific woodcutter just like Levi, the Chopper. At 12 years, about Logan’s age, he stumped all the religious leaders with His questions. When He was about 30 years old he began to make things happen that appeared like magic, the kind of stuff Anson likes to fool us with, except what Prince did was real. He began by making the best wine out of water when a wedding party ran out of wine. But that was mild compared to other adventures Prince had. You see, the chaos from the poison fruit deal in the Garden was still around and lots of people were sick and crippled and some had Coo’s traitors bugging them all the time. He opened the eyes of blind people, straightened crooked legs, and even touched lepers and they got well. One day Prince came upon a crazy man who ran around the cemetery in his birthday suit. Prince asked Crazy, “What’s wrong with you, man?” Crazy said, “I’ve got a bunch of Coo’s traitors torturing me and I can’t get them off my back!” Prince looked around and saw a herd of pigs nearby and said to the traitors, “Git!” And they swooped down on the pigs and the herd ran and jumped in the lake! Then one night in the middle of a storm Prince scared the living daylights out of a boatload of fishermen by striding up to the boat on foot! On another occasion he was asleep on a boat with the same “brave” fishermen when they Dick Miller thought they were going to be drowned by the storm. When they woke Him up, He said to the wind and waves, “Be still.” To their amazement, it immediately became calm. Well, do you suppose all the people thought He was wonderful? No way! The villain Coo was still on the loose and just like in the garden when he teamed up with a snake, he found some new teammates. They were the religious leaders who didn’t like the King’s plan and became jealous of Prince’s popularity, especially when He rode into town on a donkey like a king. Now Coo knew exactly about that jealousy for he felt the same way and kept jabbing them in their jealousy pouch every chance he got. This went on for about three years until the “religious teammates” could not stand it any longer so they drummed up false charges and took Prince before Pilate, the Roman ruler, for trial. The trial lasted all night. The mob finally got their way, and Pilate sentenced Prince to be hung on a cross. But first Prince was beaten so bad He was not even recognizable. Although it was Roman soldiers that beat Prince, most likely they were egged on by the hatred from Coo. So, they hung Prince on a cross and even jabbed a spear into His side, just for good measure. And you know what Prince did? With just about His last breath, he looked out over the mob and loved them! He said to the King, “Father, please forgive them because they don’t know what they are doing.” The King knew it was in the plan for Prince to suffer and die so that anyone who agreed with their plan could live, but it still hurt Him so much that He turned out the lights from noon to three PM and jolted the countryside with a powerful earthquake! Prince died soon after that and a brave man took his body and buried it in a tomb and rolled a huge stone over the entrance. I can imagine Coo and his traitors had a three-day celebration because they had finally gotten even with the King and His Prince. But just image Coo’s reaction Sunday morning when that huge stone began to move! “No! No! This can’t be. Oh, no! The Prince’s body is changing! It’s… it’s… radiating so bright I can’t stand to look at it! I can’t believe it! We had Him, but there He goes!” Sure enough, when some women came to the tomb to anoint Prince’s body they got the surprise of their life! The stone was rolled back and all that was in the tomb was the burial clothes! Now, just stop and think about that for a minute. We know when a body dies the spirit that is the real person departs and goes somewhere. In this case, Prince himself obviously left His body, then with power from the King transformed His own body into a magnificent one that was not limited by time or space! And the next Sunday He scared His brave followers, who had locked themselves in an upstairs room, by coming right through the wall! Then He did it again the next Sunday! Awesome! For the next 40 days Prince appeared here and there, showed the crew how to fish then fixed breakfast and ate with them just to prove He had a real body like the one we’ll get one day. There is a catch though; we have to ask the Prince for it. A few days later, Prince took the crew up on a hill and said to them, “Okay, you are now in charge down here. I’m headed back to see the King and get a place ready for you. When we have it completed, we’ll clear out all the contaminated solar system and bring the new city down here so the King and I can live with you and all the others who choose to do so. But be alert and hang in there because it will get rough before it’s all over. There will be lots of folks who don’t like the only plan the King and I have put in place and will get mad at you just they did at Me. But not to worry; I’ll send you a Helper.” Then Prince waved to the crew and vanished in the clouds! They were so dumbfounded they just stood there. Suddenly two “men” in bright clothes startled them. “Why are you just standing there gawking at the clouds? He’ll be back just like He said!” So, children, that’s the Easter story. He’ll be back any time now, but this time He’ll be riding a white horse not a donkey! And His name will be changed to King of Kings! The North Korea Gauntlet By Bruce Klingner The Heritage Foundation, North Korea's launch of a long-range Taepo Dong-2 missile is a direct challenge not just to the United States but to the international community's resolve to confront threats to regional stability. U.N. Resolutions 1695 and 1718 unambiguously prohibited Pyongyang from launching a missile or "satellite." Indeed, even the continued existence of North Korea's missile programs is itself a violation that international timidity has allowed to proceed unaddressed. North Korea's defiance represents the first foreign policy test of whether the Obama Administration's actions will match its strong rhetoric. President Barack Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have described the beginnings of a firm and principled approach to North Korea, including the need to impose additional sanctions if Pyongyang does not fully comply with its commitments. The U.S. response to North Korea's missile provocation must send a strong signal that Pyongyang cannot continue to benefit from brinksmanship and military threats. If the United Nations Security Council wants to salvage any credibility for its resolutions and to uphold the tenet of nonproliferation, it has no choice but to fully enforce the existing resolutions. It must also pass a follow-on agreement that contains stronger punitive measures and allow the use of all tools--including sanctions and military force--to target North Korean and other nations' companies and government organizations that have violated the U.N. resolutions. Pyongyang's launch is a tangible manifestation of the continuing threat that ballistic missiles pose to the United States and its allies. North Korea's overflight of Japan with a Taepo Dong-1 missile in 1998 galvanized Japanese support for missile defenses--support affirmed by Pyongyang's attempted 2006 launch of a Taepo Dong-2. Today's missile flight should similarly serve as a catalyst for the Obama Administration to maintain efforts to deploy U.S. missile defense systems. Pyongyang Claims 'Satellite' Is Not Violation The launch is a clear violation of the two resolutions passed by the U.N. Security Council, which "demands that the DPRK not ... launch a ballistic missile [and] decides that the DPRK shall suspend all activities related to its ballistic missile program [and] abandon [its] ballistic missile program in a complete, verifiable, and irreversible manner." Although North Korea claimed its 1998 Taepo Dong-1 missile launch was a civilian satellite, U.N. Resolution 1695 instead assessed the event as having "launched an object propelled by a missile.” By characterizing the launch as a civilian satellite, North Korea is attempting to minimize negative repercussions from this provocative act. Indeed, China and Russia may use this obfuscation to justify resistance to a strong U.N. Security Council response. But mastering the difficult multi-stage capabilities of a satellite launch and ballistic missile are technologically identical: The same missile that can be used to launch a satellite can also deliver a nuclear warhead. How the U.S. Should Respond The Obama Administration and Congress should enact a threefold response to North Korea's blatant violation of U.N. resolutions: 1. Implement punitive sanctions. * Demand that all U.N. member nations fully implement existing U.N. resolution requirements to prevent North Korea's procurement and export of missile- and WMD-related items and technology and freeze the financial assets of any involved North Korean or foreign person, company, or government entity. Any nation that does not implement the resolution would also be subject to its sanctions. * Coordinate a multilateral effort of financial, military, law enforcement, and intelligence organizations to sanction North Korean and other foreign companies and government entities that are involved in North Korean missile and WMD development and proliferation. * Submit a new U.N. Security Council resolution invoking Chapter VII, Article 42 of the U.N. charter, which allows for enforcement by military means. In 2006, China insisted that U.N. Resolutions 1695 and 1718 adopt the weaker Article 41 provisions.[2] Other measures that should be considered are those initially proposed by the U.S. and Japan in 2006, including a ban on transit of North Korean ships and planes, an embargo on North Korean exports, and a 30-day deadline for North Korean compliance. * Enforce U.S. law, including Section 311 of the USA PATRIOT Act, against North Korean illicit activities such as currency counterfeiting, money laundering, production and distribution of illegal drugs, and counterfeit pharmaceuticals. It was a grave mistake of the Bush Administration to allow Pyongyang to dictate an abrogation of enforcing U.S. and international laws in return for North Korea's return to the six-party talks. 2. Continue U.S. and allied missile defense development and deployment. * Give U.S. Standard Missile-3 seabased missile defense interceptors the ability to intercept long-range missiles in the ascent phase of flight before it releases decoys that may confuse or overwhelm the defense. * Recognize that, because long-range missiles spend a majority of their flight times in space, space-based interceptors constitute the most effective and reliable way to counter future generation missiles that North Korea or other nations may develop. Congress should call on the Obama Administration to prepare spacebased missile defense interceptors by constructing a space test bed for missile defense. * Call on South Korea to deploy a multi-layered missile defense system that is interoperable with a U.S. regional missile network. In the past, South Korea's progressive administrations have been hesitant to do so for fear of aggravating Pyongyang and endangering Seoul's engagement policy. 3. Augment non-proliferation efforts. * Urge South Korea and China to join the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) to better defend against North Korean proliferation of missile- and WMD-related technology and components. Pyongyang's assistance to Syrian construction of an undeclared nuclear reactor showed the potential danger of nuclear proliferation. Similarly, the U.S. invoking PSI in late 2008 to request that India prevent a North Korean flight from Burma to Iran shows Washington believes Pyongyang remains an active proliferator. Rhetoric or Resolve? During the presidential campaign, then-Senator Joseph Biden prophetically warned, "Mark my words: It will not be six months before the world tests Barack Obama like they did John Kennedy. ... We're gonna have an international crisis, a generated crisis, to test the mettle of this guy."[3] North Korean leader Kim Jong-il took up the challenge by launching a Taepo Dong missile. In 2008, presidential candidate Obama stated that "sanctions are a critical part of our leverage to pressure North Korea to act. They should only be lifted based on performance. If the North Koreans do not meet their obligations, we should move quickly to re-impose sanctions that have been waived, and consider new restrictions going forward.[4] The U.S. and indeed the world now wait to see whether President Obama's strong rhetoric will be backed up by firm resolve to confront North Korea's defiance of the international community. The ramifications of Obama's response go far beyond the Korean Peninsula. After all, it was President Kennedy's disastrously weak performance during a 1961 meeting with Nikita Khrushchev that inspired the Soviet leader to engage in the Berlin Crisis and the Cuban Missile Crisis. Bruce Klingner is Senior Research Fellow for Northeast Asia in the Asian Studies Center at The Heritage Foundation. The author would like to thank Baker Spring, F.M. Kirby Research Fellow in National Security Policy at The Heritage Foundation, for his advice and suggestions. PUBLISHED WEEKLY EVERY THURSDAY Manhattan Free Press WINNER OF THE KANSAS GAS SERVICE EXCELLENCE IN EDITORIAL WRITING AWARD Free Press Staff Jon A. and Linda L. Brake, Publishers Jon A. Brake, Editor Linda L. Brake, Advertising Manager Ben Brake, Sports Editor “Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.” - Thomas Jefferson, 1787 Subscriptions: eFreePress subscriptions are Free Street Address: 103 North 3rd Street Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1191, Manhattan, Ks 66505 E-Mail: [email protected] or [email protected] 785-537-8953 NEWS 5A MANHATTAN FREE PRESS - THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2009 Zoo: Dino Day And bunny Brunch An EGGcellent adventure awaits you and your little dino egg hunters at Sunset Zoo Saturday, April 11, during the Dino Day EGGstravaganza! Roar with the dinosaurs and hunt for the “hidden egg stations” where you can learn a bit about the egg-y beasts and “find” candy-filled eggs. Be sure to bring your camera so that you can take photos of your friends and family with Sunset Zoo’s own Hoppin’ Bunny! Your Dino Day EGGstravaganza starts at noon and ends at 5 pm, when the Zoo closes for the evening. Bunny Brunch: The First current 250 Friends of Sunset Zoo members will be treated to a Bunny Brunch of bagels & donuts beginning at 11:00 am. Be sure to show your current FOSZ card at the ticket booth and get your hand stamped-your ticket to the Bunny Brunch. The Bunny Brunch is a FOSZ members-only event. Come outside & play. Earth Day ‘09: reduce. reuse. recycle. rock your world. Sunday, April 26 It’s a party for the planet and you are invited to come outside & play! Join Sunset Zoo Sunday, April 26, for the 2nd annual Earth Day Music Festival, “reduce. reuse. recycle. & rock your world.” Be one of the first 50 people to bike-in to Earth Day at the Zoo with Bike Manhattan and get a free 14 oz water bottle. Register to join Gaia SalonSpa (call 539.2622) for their “Walk & Rock at the Zoo” 4 mile walk to benefit Sunset Zoo’s conservation programs (first 100 entries will receive a free t-shirt and reusable tote!) Or bring your GPS along and find the Brownie Mystery Geocache at the Zoo! Every Day is a Good EARTH Day at Sunset Zoo! The Wamego Dutch Mill Chorus won first place in the Region 7 Sweet Adeline Chorus Competition on Saturday, April 4th ! The ladies have placed first in the small and mid-size categories many times over more than 25 years, but have never won first place over all16 choruses, regardless of size. The choruses in Sweet Adeline's Region 7 include Omaha, Lincoln, Topeka, Newton, Emporia, Pratt, St. Joseph, DeMoines, North Kansas City, Chillicothe, Sedalia and 2 choruses from Wichita. The Wamego Chorus performed a clown package of 2 songs, complete with props, somersaults, pie in the face....the whole works. Winning first in the region gives the top chorus the opportunity to compete Internationally the following year. The Wamego Dutch Mill Chorus will be going to Seattle in the fall of 2010. For the next year and 1/2 they'll be busily working on a package for the International competition. The Wamego Chorus will be performing their competition package, as well as joining the men's barbershop chorus for several musical numbers, at McCain Auditorium next Saturday, April 11th. Tickets are $15 in advance (785-539-4465), or $18 at the door, for a 2:00 p.m. matinee or a 7:30 evening service. Letter: Centennial celebration U.S. credit unions are celebrating their centennial year in the midst of gloomy economic times. Many Americans are hurting, and folks are apprehensive about their economic prospects. Credit unions wish this weren’t the case, and they are stepping in to help whenever possible. But the current situation is an important reminder that credit unions themselves were founded from adversity such as this, and of their proud history of putting people before profits in order to provide access to affordable financial services to all their members. The first U.S. credit union was created in Manchester, New Hampshire in 1908 by immigrant textile workers. They worked 10-hour days, seven days a week without benefits or job security. They did not even have access to credit, as many believed workers of modest means to be untrustworthy. For them, economic tension was a way of life. St. Mary’s Bank Credit Union changed that and made it possible for these immigrants to finally have access to affordable financial services. Workers and families in the community pooled their own resources to provide low-cost loans to one another to purchase and build homes, establish neighborhood businesses, and meet the personal financial needs of the community. The cooperative business concept, along with an emphasis on public service through a commitment to conservative style of banking has allowed credit unions to be a haven in time of national emergencies for the last 100 years. And even in the midst of the current market crisis, credit unions have been repeatedly heralded as an important source of stability in the financial sector. Like all credit unions, K-State Credit Union remains committed to helping our citizens retrieve the economic power lost during the current crisis, and recover homes lost because of the mortgage market upheaval. This is not only the reason that credit unions exist – it is also what they do best. And it is this proud, 100-year tradition of being part of the solution rather than the problem that credit unions are celebrating today. Angie Reed K-State Credit Union 2600 Anderson Ave. Manhattan, Ks Mike Lyon To Discuss His Work By: Caitlin Muret KSU New Service Mike Lyon, the 2009 gift print artist at Kansas State University’s Marianna Kistler Beach Museum, will have an exhibition and present at talk at the museum. “Figuring it Out: Mike Lyon, 2009 Friends of the Beach Museum of Art Gift Print Artist” will be on display at the museum from April 14 to July 19. The exhibition will feature work by Lyon and part of his collection of Ukiyo-e prints. He also will give a talk about his work and the artistic process at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 16, at the museum. The talk is free and the public is invited. K-State’s gift print tradition was started in 1934 and was an incentive to membership in the Friends of Art. Today, Friends of the Beach Museum of Art members may purchase the current print at a discounted price. At the end of the year, the remaining prints may be purchased by anyone at current market price. Lyon, from Kansas City, Mo., is an avid collector of Ukiyo-e art, which has inspired the print he is creating for the Beach Museum. He described it as a rendering of a paper doll that one may dress up with paper clothes. During the artistic process, Lyon uses a computer and industrial equipment with more traditional painting, drawing and printmaking methods. For the Beach Museum’s gift print, Lyon said he will print flat areas of color, then use a ballpoint pen to crosshatch a coarse sort of chiaroscuro drawing. “There’s precedent for this sort of image in Japanese printmaking and the printing is to be Japanese technique woodcut, so image and part of the process echo to old Japan,” Lyon said. “Then the drawing is to be done by machine, following instructions I’ve written and generated to produce the layers of hatches.” Gift print artists, who must have a connection to Kansas or the region, are chosen annually by Bill North, senior curator at the Beach. Lyon’s exhibition is sponsored by the Friends of the Beach Museum of Art business partners. For more information, contact Martha Scott at the Beach Museum of Art at 785-532-7718 or drop by the museum on the southeast corner of the K-State campus at 14th Street and Anderson Avenue. Free visitor parking is available next to the building. Normal museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays; and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. The museum is closed Mondays. The Free Press Is Brought To You By These Advertisers Optical Perspectives $29.95 $26.95 $21.95 Economy Lowers Death Toll WASHINGTON (AP) _ U.S. highway deaths in 2008 fell to their lowest level in nearly 50 years, the latest government figures show, as the recession and $4 per gallon gas meant people drove less to save more. Safety experts said record-high seatbelt use, tighter enforcement of drunken driving laws and the work of advocacy groups that encourage safer driving habits contributed to the reduction in deaths. Preliminary figures released by the government Monday show that 37,313 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes last year. That’s 9.1 percent lower than the year before, when 41,059 died, and the fewest since 1961, when there were 36,285 deaths. A different measure, also offering good news, was the fatality rate, the number of deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. It was 1.28 in 2008, the lowest on record. A year earlier it was 1.36. ``The silver lining in a bad economy is that people drive less, and so the number of deaths go down,’‘ said Adrian Lund, president of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. ``Not only do they drive less but the kinds of driving they do tend to be less risky _ there’s less discretionary driving.’‘ Fatalities fell by more than 14 percent in New England, and by 10 percent or more in many states along the Atlantic seaboard, parts of the Upper Midwest and the West Coast, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. ``Americans should really be pleased that everyone has stepped up here in order to make driving safer and that people are paying attention to that,’‘ Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. In the past, tough economic times have brought similar declines in roadway deaths. Fatalities fell more than 16 percent from 1973 to 1974 as the nation dealt with the oil crisis and inflation. Highway deaths dropped nearly 11 percent from 1981 to 1982 as President Ronald Reagan battled a recession. The government said vehicle miles traveled in 2008 fell by about 3.6 percent, to 2.92 trillion miles, indicating many people adjusted their driving habits as gas prices fluctuated and the economy tumbled. The number of miles driven by motorists had risen steadily over the past three decades. The figures are preliminary; final numbers and state-by-state totals are expected later in the year. We’ve Moved to our New Location Larry Kluttz Certified Optician Owner EXP:03-31-07 Exp: 30Apr09 DUANE L. McKINNEY Broker-Appraiser-Inspector APPRAISALS, SALES, PROPERTY MANAGEMENT (785)539-5105 930 Hayes Drive, Suite E. Manhattan, Kansas Fax: (785)539-2324 Manhattan Realty Services 116 S. 4th St, Suite 2 Manhattan, Ks 66502 _________________________ Phone: 785 776-1010 Fax: 785 539-1026 E-Mail: [email protected] Ta y l o r ’s F a m i l y H a i r C a r e All your Family’s Styling needs See Faye, Marissa or Marianne Booth Rental Available 3tl7 8 5 - 5 3 9 - 7 7 5 1 Monday Thru Saturday 314-C Tuttle Creek Blvd. Manhattan KS NEWS 6A MANHATTAN FREE PRESS - THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2009 In Alzheimer’s Tests Show When To Stop Driving WASHINGTON (AP) _ US scientists are creating tests to show when it is time for people with early Alzheimer’s disease to stop driving. It is one of a family’s most wrenching decisions, and as Alzheimer’s increasingly is diagnosed in its earliest stages, it can be hard to tell when a loved one is poised to become a danger. Factor in that much of the country lacks public transportation, and quitting too soon restricts independence for someone who otherwise may function well for several years. ``That’s a real cost to the individual and family and society,’‘ says Jeffrey Dawson of the University of Iowa. ``You have to have some sort of trade-off between the individual’s independence along with the safety of the driver and with other people on the road.’‘ Typically, specialists say, patients gradually scale back their driving, avoiding busy freeways or night trips or left-turn intersections. Alzheimer’s Association adviser Sue Pinder, 58, recently gave up big-city driving even though it meant fewer visits to a daughter in Dallas. Shortly after Pinder’s diagnosis in 2004, she signed a form designating her husband to decide when she’ll quit driving altogether. He gave her a GPS system for her last birthday. It helped Pinder navigate unfamiliar streets when, to be near another daughter, the couple recently moved. ``That’s helped a lot where I don’t have to worry, I can concentrate on my driving and not the directions,’‘ Pinder says. Working on ways to help similar patients, Dawson’s team in Iowa developed an intricate behind-thewheel exam: A 35-mile (56-kilometer) drive through rural, residential and urban streets in a tricked-out Ford Taurus able to record just about every action the driver takes, much like an airplane ``black box’‘ does. Lipstick-size video cameras were positioned to show oncoming traffic, too. Researchers recruited 40 people with early-stage Alzheimer’s who still had their driver’s licenses to take the road test, and compared how 115 older drivers without dementia handled the same trip. The results, reported in the journal Neurology, are striking. On average, the Alzheimer’s drivers committed 42 safety mistakes, compared with 33 for the other drivers. Lane violations, such as swerving or hugging the center line as another car approaches, were the biggest problem for the Alzheimer’s drivers. They performed 50 percent worse. Overall errors rose with increasing age whether or not the driver had Alzheimer’s, an extra 21/2 mistakes for every five years of age. But some Alzheimer’s patients drove just as well as their healthier counterparts, stresses Dawson, a biostatistics professor. Here’s the key: Researchers also checked whether any of a battery of neuropsychological tests given beforehand accurately predicted who would drive worse _ and some did. Flunking simple memory tests did not make a difference. Standard neurologic tests of multitasking abilities did, ones that assess if people’s cognitive, visual and motor skills work together in a way to make quick decisions. Examples include showing patients geometric figures for a few seconds and having them draw the shape from memory, or drawing paths between a sequence of numbers and letters. Alzheimer’s patients who scored average or better on those types of written tests were likewise no worse behind the wheel than other older drivers _ but those who scored worse than average tended to commit about 50 percent more errors on the road, Dawson says. More research is needed but the ultimate goal is an easy doctor’soffice exam to help guide when patients should give up the car keys. About 600,000 elderly adults stop driving for some health reason every year, according to the National Institute on Aging. But there’s little clear guidance for the roughly 2 million people estimated to be in Alzheimer’s early stages, and the disease is poised to skyrocket in two decades as the population grays. States have varying laws on when aging drivers must pass a road test for a license renewal, but they seldom address specific diseases; California requires reporting of Alzheimer’s diagnoses so driving can be assessed. The Alzheimer’s Association tells families warning signs of unsafe driving. by the highly-respected forecasting firm SAIC and commissioned by the American Council on Capital Formation projected the economic impact of last year’s version of capand-trade for Kansas. They found that by 2020, with the bill in effect just 8 years, we would have: 11,090 to 16,690 fewer jobs, $947 to $3,069 in lower annual disposable income per household, an annual hit to Kansas economy of between $1.31 billion and $1.82 billion, and much higher energy prices — 21 percent to 67 percent higher for gasoline and 31 percent to 39 percent higher for electricity. The study also found that lower-income families — people who are least able to absorb higher energy costs — will be the hardest hit. Those numbers are the impact of last year’s Lieberman-Warner version. We don’t have number yet on Obama’s new proposal, but it is more extreme and would be even more expensive. These astonishing economic costs are not an unfortunate side effect of the bill — they are its intended purpose. President Obama himself explained that passing costs on to consumers is an important part of his plan when he explained to the San Francisco Chronicle last year: “Under my plan of a cap and trade system, electricity rates would necessarily skyrocket… whatever the plants were, whatever the industry was, they would have to retrofit their operations. That will cost money. Deep Cuts, New Chances For Cos. In DOD Budget WASHINGTON (AP) _ Defense Secretary Robert Gates’ proposed budget would cut back some of the industry’s largest deals, from a big upgrade of Army fighting units to contracts for new cargo planes and stealth destroyers. Gates said Monday the Pentagon’s weapons strategy will focus on equipment that can be used against the insurgencies and irregular threats faced in places like Afghanistan, rather than older programs designed for conventional wars. He also expressed skepticism over some programs with newer, yet unproven technology, like elements of the plan to build a shield from missile attacks. For the defense sector, which in recent years has posted big profits from a rapid run-up in military spending, the new focus was a mixed message. Big programs appear to be in jeopardy, but others may be built up under Gates’ plan. ``This budget represents an opportunity, one of those rare chances to match virtue to necessity, and ruthlessly separate appetites from real requirements,’‘ Gates said of his $534 billion spending plan for the 2010 fiscal year. Many defense stocks jumped Monday even as the broader market fell. Shares of Lockheed Martin Corp. and Northrop Grumman Corp. each rose nearly 9 percent. Analysts said the big gains, which occurred as Gates made his early afternoon speech, were likely because the budget cuts were not as bad as some investors had anticipated. ``People were fearful there was some sort of Armageddon headed for the defense budget,’‘ said Carter Copeland of Barclay’s Capital. But some companies would lose big programs, like Lockheed Martin’s contract to build a new helicopter for the president, which at $13 billion is way over budget and behind schedule. General Dynamics Corp. could lose out if Gates’ plan to cut armored vehicles from the Army’s Future Combat Systems modernization program goes through. Other contractors would see programs halted short of their hopes: _Boeing would not make any more C17 cargo planes and saw its missile defense plans pared back as Gates seeks to trim $1.4 billion from the overall missile shield program. _Lockheed Martin would stop at 187 F-22 fighter jets priced at $140 million each. _Northrop Grumman and General Dynamics would not make more than three of the new DDG-1000 destroyers for the Navy. Programs in development also would be scrapped, like plans to build a new search-and-rescue helicopter sought by Boeing, Lockheed and United Technologies Corp. Lockheed and Boeing’s competition for the $26 billion transformational satellite, known as TSAT, also will be ended. While Gates’ plan includes plenty of cuts, analysts say it also provides new opportunities for the defense companies. ``The contractors will adapt,’‘ said James McAleese, a defense industry analyst. Lockheed’s F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program would be accelerated as the F22 production line ends. Gates said he would want two more satellites made by Lockheed even though TSAT would be dropped. The Navy would buy more of General Dynamics’ and Lockheed’s littoral combat warships that operate close to shore. Other potential gains include: _Boeing and Northrop again having the chance to bid on the long-delayed $35 billion Air Force refueling plane contract, which Gates wants to reopen this summer. _Helicopter makers like Sikorsky getting a chance to build the new Marine One presidential helicopter if Lockheed loses it. _The Army still needs the tanks and armored vehicles General Dynamics makes for the service’s Future Combat Systems program. Rootin’, Tootin Shootout Join the The Bart Plasterson Gang, professional re-enactors, on the Central Branch Rails for a rootin’, tootin’ ride to the cowboys’ town of “Somewhere” west of Waterville. Witness a cowboy shootout and fun on the rails on Victorian Day in Waterville on Saturday, April 25th from 10:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, April 26th, join the gang for a church service out at “Somewhere”. Meet at the Waterville caboose at 9:45 a.m. or if inclement weather, the service will be in the Waterville Opera House. Rides to “Somewhere” resume after the service. Tickets for the ride will be sold at the Waterville caboose: adults $5.00 and children $3.00. Call for information at 785-363-2343 Protection You Can Count On! Guest Editorial: Cap-and-Trade Tax Hike Will Slam Kansas By Derrick Sontag and Phil Kerpen The surprise revenue source to pay for much of the Obama budget is something known deceptively as “climate revenues,” also known as “cap-and-trade.” What cap-andtrade really means is tax-and-spend — at an unprecedented level and with sweeping consequences throughout the economy, both nationally and here in Kansas. It’s the worst kind of tax hike — a hidden tax hike, hidden behind a complex regulatory scheme that only adds to the cost. The size of the tax is a mystery — companies know they have to pay a tax, but nobody knows what the tax rate is because companies will be forced to bid at auction for the government to allow it to use fossil fuels. The Obama budget initially slated the cap-and-trade tax to generate approximately $646 billion in revenue to the federal government over eight years. More recently however, the deputy director for the White House National Economic Council, Jason Furman, reported that the tax scheme would actually raise two-to-three times that much, running upwards of $1.3 to $1.9 trillion. The truth is nobody knows how much this will cost, and that’s part of the problem. We do know the impact on our economy here in Kansas would be staggering. An analysis conducted Exp: 3/30/09 They will pass that money on to consumers.” What makes these costs even worse is that they don’t buy us anything of value on the environmental side. Cap-and-trade is already failing to reduce emissions in Europe. And even if emissions targets are met, climate models show that the reductions would have no discernible effect on global average temperature. The National Center for Atmospheric Research found that the Kyoto Protocol would reduce global average temperature 0.07 degrees Celsius in 50 years and 0.15 degrees Celsius in 100 years. Feel good symbolism is not worth trillions of dollars in higher energy taxes. Climate change can only be effectively addressed with the luxury of wealth that a free-market provides. That’s why it would be such a mistake to impose a cap-and-trade, tax-and-spend scheme that would only undermine our prosperity. This will ultimately be decided in the U.S. Senate, and we can only hope that Sens. Sam Brownback and Pat Roberts remain steadfast opponents of cap-and-trade, and successfully make the case against it to their colleagues. The health of our state and national economies may depend on it. Derrick Sontag is Kansas state director and Phil Kerpen is national director of policy for Americans for Prosperity. Landmark SELF STORAGE (785)313-7777 f3HUVRQDOL]HGSDVVFRGHJDWHDFFHVV GD\VDZHHNGD\VD\HDU f2QVLWHRIILFHDQGPDQDJHUV DSDUWPHQWIRU\RXUDVVLVWDQFH f0DQDJHUVDUHUHWLUHGYHWHUDQVZLWK \HDUVRIODZHQIRUFHPHQW H[SHULHQFH f&OLPDWHFRQWUROOHGXQLWV f59JDUDJHVZ[HDV\RSHQ UROOXSGRRUV f%RDWJDUDJHV f$XWRPRWLYHPRWRUF\FOHVWRUDJH f ,QVXODWHGEOGJVZLWKZLGHSDYHG DLVOHVIRUPRYLQJWUXFNV 4790 Skyway Drive, Manhattan, KS 66503 1H[WWR0DQKDWWDQ$LUSRUWfZZZODQGPDUNVHOIVWRUDJHFRP T HURSDAY 7A VOLUM E 15, N UMBER 45 T HURSDAY, A PRIL 9, 2009 W INNER OF THE K ANSAS G AS S ERVICE E XCELLENCE I N E DITORIAL W RITING 2006 K ANSAS P ROFESSIONAL C OMMUNICATORS P HOTO E SSAY AWARD 2006 K ANSAS P ROFESSIONAL C OMMUNICATORS E DITORIAL AWARD W INNER OF THE K ANSAS P RESS A SSOCIATION A DVERTISING AWARD Spring Practice: Snyder Talks Kansas State Football By Mark Janssen What are the most dreaded letters out of the 2009 off-season Kansas State training camp? Without hesitation, Wildcat players from offense, to defense, to special teams say, “PI.” Defined, that’s “Price Of Irresponsibility.” Further defined, that’s “... something you don’t want to be involved with,” laughed senior tackle Nick Stringer. “It’s missing classes, missing study hall, being late for meetings ... just not taking care of what you need to be taking care of.” And if you don’t, there’s a 5 a.m. wake-up call, followed by a 6 a.m. workout at the stadium. That’s a.m. ... as morning ... as in, before the sun’s up. Quarterback candidate Joseph Kassanavoid said he’s “heard” it’s a terrible workout, but added, “It’s what coach (Bill) Snyder is all about in being a perfectionist and wanting the most out of a person.” And it’s that, which the Wildcat players of today say, is the biggest difference than a year ago under coach Ron Prince. “Coach is making us do things that we could have done last year, but didn’t,” said returning defensive end Brandon Harold. “With coach, being tired is a mind set. He has the ability Mark Janssen to extend your limits beyond what you feel you can do. I wouldn’t say it’s more professional, but it’s far more demanding.” That was especially found to be true in the initial workout where Brandon Banks said, “The whole team nearly passed out.” The miniature wide receiver then said, “It’s much more intense. Everything is at full speed. You get done with one drill and you sprint to another. It’s made the entire team more motivated to succeed.” Kassanavoid called the workouts “80 percent” tougher than last year, and added that it’s made for a higher level of “family attitude.” Quarterback Carson Coffman added, “Like no other coach, coach Snyder pulls the absolute best out of you. He demands higher than you think you can go.” Beyond the workout field, Lamark Brown said the biggest Prince to Snyder change has come with “... how he expects us to conduct ourselves, which starts with how we come into the complex (without caps and without earrings). There’s more accountability, which has made us a more cohesive team.” Oh, is Snyder too old for the coaching profession? Not so, says linebacker Josh Berard: “He’s brought an enthusiasm, high energy, focus and love for the game.” And overall, Banks said of Snyder’s presence, “He’s a legend. You look up to him.” SNYDER ON THE ‘CATS: Snyder called the out of season program “fairly extensive” with the sessions designed to improve on the “intrinsic values” of the team. Yes, the Wildcat coach has not changed from his first 17-year stay as football coach. The intrinsics. “My message has been centered around the discipline that needs to be a part of what we do as a program,” said Snyder. “Great emphasis was placed on leadership with a great emphasis put on hard work and effort beyond what they may feel they are capable of doing.” Snyder said the team has been “receptive,” but with inconsistencies going from some good days to some bad days. As opposed to lifting mountains and running faster than a speeding bullet, Snyder said the emphasis was placed on movement and developing the capacity to change direction with quickness. Kansas State culminated the offseason program on Thursday with the “Cat Relays,” which includes a series of strength and conditioning drills that are scored in the weight room and on the field. Snyder was not specific in what players are lifting and how fast they’re running team-wide, but only said, “They have not been overwhelming. They were rather average. Was there an improvement made over a period of time? I would say 72 to 78 percent improvement in those things you measure with a stopwatch or by weight. “So yes, there was some progress, but was it as rapid as I would like ... no,” Snyder said. “Was it as complete as I would like ... no, but yes there was some progress.” POSITION CHANGES: For now, only Lamark Brown going from running back to wide receiver is the lone position change entering spring drills. Snyder, however, did say, “I suggest there will be others.” As a coaching staff, Snyder said, “We constantly are asking, ‘Would this young man be better suited here, or there?’ “ But in the end, he said, “We’re not going to force a position change. At the end of the day it is the decision of the player.” QUESTIONS: Asked about questionable areas on the team, Snyder quipped, “How many players do we have on the team? Eleven on each side of the ball, plus our special teams?” And what’s why Snyder likes spring practice: “We have a chance to formulate some of those answers. We may not like the answers, but nevertheless, we can formulate some (answers) pretty quickly.” (Editor’s Note: Mark Janssen’s writings on Kansas State athletics can be found on a daily basis at New WNBA Format Could Affect Lehning, Gipson By Mark Janssen The National Football League Draft is garnering the most attention this month, but don’t tell that to Kansas State women’s basketball standouts Shalee Lehning and Marlies Gipson. Where they might be spending the summer months will be decided on April 9, when the three-round Women’s National Association League Draft takes place in Secaucus, N.J. According to draft sites, the 5foot-9 Lehning is projected to be a second-rounder, while the 6-foot Gipson is listed as a candidate for the third round. For both Wildcats, the timing is unfortunate. “This is a very intriguing draft year because the league has lost a team (Houston), plus the roster size of the remaining 13 teams is being reduced from 13 to 11,” said K-State coach Deb Patterson. “What that means is that there are 39 players floating around who are free agents and competing for existing roster spots, plus the players entering via the draft.” According to WNBA Draft Net, Lehning’s scouting report looks like this: Strengths: Has quickly become one of the better playmakers in the nation; excellent in transition and in the open floor; great court vision, finding teammates with ease; strong rebounder for a player at the guard position; standout leader who usually makes mature, smart decisions; good slasher; strong build; scrappy defensively. Weaknesses: Sometimes forces action offensively, at times to her teams disadvantage; over aggression on defense can sometimes lead her to create silly fouls, especially early in the games; needs to work on outside shooting a bit, especially from three; needs to more aggressive and consistent on offense. “Realistically, Shalee has the opportunity to be drafted, but is that a guarantee? No,” Patterson said. “This is a league where point guards will always be a need. In my mind, there’s no question that if she gets an opportunity to join a veteran camp, she has the talent to impress. “She’s not a gifted athlete relative to the athletes we see in this league, but she brings great leadership and offensive abilities as a point guard,” Patterson said. “The area where she will have to prove herself in a training camp will be on defense. But does she have that needed ability to make teammates better? Definitely.” Lehning finished her K-State career No. 1 in all-time assists, No. 4 in rebounding, and No. 5 in steals and No. 19 in scoring. The Big 12 co-Player of the Year and honorable mention all-America selection is the only player in Big 12 history to record at least 1,000 points, 900 rebounds and 800 assists. WNBA Draft Net sees Gipson as this type of player: Strengths: Very versatile; can shoot from most spots on the floor, even three; excellent footwork down low in the post; strong rebounder; steady defensive presence with solid shot blocking skills; strong defender who excels in blocking shots; good free throw shooter; a very smart player. Weaknesses: Sometimes doesn’t finish well with contact; may need to work on her speed just a little bit; bad in late shot clock positions; needs to work on decision making as far as when to shoot; needs to work on staying aggressive offensively. “Marleis is an intriguing player because she has all that athletic ability, but is undersized for her position,” Patterson said. “If a 6-2 fourplayer? No question. Then you’re talking about a second-round draft pick. But she’s 5-11 or 6-0.” Gipson finished her career No. 1 in blocked shots, No. 3 in all-time rebounding and No. 13 in scoring. The shortest player to rank among the top 10 shot blockers in the nation, Gipson was third in the Big 12 and 20th in the nation. Patterson said she has fielded WNBA calls on both players, but fully understands coaches all over the country are taking the same type of calls. Patterson said that first-round choices have a “fairly high chance” of making a roster, second rounders have a “moderate chance” and “it’s really tough” for third-round selections. Still listed on WNBA rosters from K-State are Nicole Ohlde with the Phoenix Mercury and Laurie Koehn with the Washington Mystics. Patterson also said that 2008 graduate Kimberly Dietz still has an interest in playing professionally after rehabbing an injured knee for the last year. (Editor’s Note: Mark Janssen’s writings on Kansas State athletics can be found on a daily basis at kstatefans.com.) The Free Press Is Brought To You By These Advertisers DO YOU NEED TO GET AROUND TOWN? CALL THE aTa Bus TODAY! 537-6345 GENERAL PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION FOR THE MANHATTAN-RILEY COUNTY AREA This Project Funded in Part by the KDOT Public Transit Program Free Weight Loss Consultation Call Connie at 785-537-4447 Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home Serving Manhattan And Surrounding Communities Since 1925 Formerly BURLIEW-COWAN-EDWARDS FUNERAL HOME (785) 539-7481 www.ymlfuneralhome.com Douglas P. Meloan Eric S. Londeen 1616 Poyntz Av, Manhattan Kansas State’s Shalee Lehning. (Photo by Jon Brake) SPORTS 8A MANHATTAN FREE PRESS - THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2009 Student-Athletes Honored At Annual Banquet KSU Sports Information MANHATTAN, Kan. – Outstanding Kansas State studentathletes representing each of the school’s 16 varsity sports who balanced athletics and academics during the 2008-09 academic school year were honored at the 13th annual Mark A. Chapman Recognition Ceremony for Student-Athletes Tuesday night. Student-athletes who achieved at least a 3.0 grade-point average and those with a fall semester or cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above were recognized along with those who were named first or second team Academic All-Big 12 Conference or CoSIDA/ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America or AllDistrict selections. More than 220 K-State studentathletes were eligible to attend the ceremony based on their academic merit or academic progress. Alex Umberger (track and field) and Lekesha Pointer-Allen (track and field) were this year’s recipients of the Bob and Lila Snell Award of Excellence and Effort, recognizing the outstanding male and female student-athletes who improved their academic standing through sustained effort and commitment to learning. Beverly Ramos of the women’s cross country team was honored with the Gina Sylvester Memorial Award. The award recognizes an Arts & Science student who has progressed toward graduation and used the advising system to overcome challenges. Chris Merriewether (men’s basketball) was the recipient of the Veryl and Fern Switzer Campus Leadership Award. The award recognizes a student-athlete who is involved in student organizations and multicultural affairs, demonstrates leadership on a team and on campus, and is active in community service. Alyssa Freeman of the equestrian team was awarded the Scholastic Achievement Award, which recognizes a senior letterwinner with the highest cumulative grade-point average in undergraduate work. Freeman has recorded a 4.0 GPA in marketing. Katerina Kudlackova (women’s tennis), Jennifer Jantsch (volleyball), Heather Hoffman (rowing) and Danielle Zanotti (women’s basketball) were honored with the Counselor Recognition Award. The award recognizes student-athletes who showed outstanding academic achievement throughout their careers at Kansas State. The Kansas State Scholar-Athlete Award, which recognizes the outstanding senior male and female student-athletes for the 2008-09 year, was given out to three individuals as Shalee Lehning (women’s basketball), Loren Groves (track and field) and Scott Sellers (track and field) each were honored. have also implemented a vast amount of our offense and defense, which has challenged their learning and retention capabilities. They have done reasonably well with that, but greater tests await them.” The Wildcats have also put a focus on the kicking game so far in workouts and continued their emphasis on daily improvement both on and off the field. “We have also spent a great deal of K-State Completes Sweep With 5-3 Win Over Nebraska LINCOLN, Neb. – Kansas State finished off a historic sweep of Nebraska on Saturday as the Wildcats defeated the Huskers, 5-3, at Hawks Field. With the win, KState improved to 24-8 overall and 54 in Big 12 play, while Nebraska fell to 16-14-1 and 4-8 in conference action. The victory provided the Wildcats’ first three-game sweep over Nebraska since 1974. It was also the first time the Huskers had been swept at home since 1997, including the first in the eight-year existence of Hawks Field. Adam Muenster, Justin Bloxom and Jason King each went 2-for-4 and combined to drive in four of the Wildcats’ five runs. Bloxom led the way with two RBI for his team-best 11th multi-RBI game of the season. King, who came into the weekend with no triples in the first 84 games of his career, hit his second of the series. The win was credited to senior pitcher Todd Vogel, who threw 3.1 innings in a predetermined start. The right-hander allowed one run on five hits, did not issue a walk and struck out three batters. Sophomore lefty Thomas Rooke allowed two runs in 4.1 innings of relief, but put an end to a Nebraska threat in the fourth that set the tone for the rest of the game. Freshman closer James Allen recorded his fifth save of the season and his second of the series as he allowed one hit and struck out one in the ninth inning. Nebraska’s Casey Hauptman (2-2) took the loss as he surrendered three earned runs – all of which came in the first inning – on five hits with a walk and three strikeouts. Just as it did to start Friday’s double-header, Kansas State tallied a multi-run inning in the first frame of the game. The first three Wildcat batters – Muenster, Carter Jurica and Griffin Turning Pro By The Associated Press Blake Griffin's coach called it a nobrainer for the Oklahoma forward to leave for the NBA. Griffin will give up his final two seasons of eligibility after the sophomore was honored by The Associated Press and several other groups as college basketball's player of the year. ``It wasn't a decision to really debate because it's the right one, and it's the best thing for Blake,'' Sooners coach Jeff Capel said, sitting alongside Griffin at a campus news conference. Arizona junior forward Chase Budinger is also headed to the NBA. Two star SEC junior guards _ Kentucky's Jodie Meeks and South Carolina's Devan Downey _ have declared for the draft without hiring an agent, leaving the option of returning to school. Nick Martini – loaded the bases on a single up the middle, a walk and a bunt single. Bloxom laced a single into center field to score Muenster and when center fielder D.J. Belfonte bobbled the ball, Jurica came around to score. King followed by hitting an 0-2 pitch back up the middle to score Martini and give the Cats a quick 30 lead. Hauptman settled down and retired 18 of the next 19 Wildcat hitters to keep Nebraska in the game, and his offensive mates responded with two runs over the fourth and fifth innings. The Huskers produced three straight one-out singles in the fourth, the latter by Jeff Tezak, to score one run and knock Vogel out of the game. Rooke came in and forced a ground out and struck out Boomer Collins to minimize the damage and keep the game 3-1. Cody Neer led off the Husker fifth with a double down the left field line, moved to third on a ground out and scored on a Kyle Bubak sacrifice fly to get NU within 3-2. Hauptman retired his 11th-straight batter for the first out of the seventh before Rob Vaughn reached on an error by Husker third baseman Jake Mort. Vaughn moved to second on a sacrifice bunt by Dane Yelovich, who would be the final batter for Hauptman. Eric Bird came on in relief to face Muenster, who gave the Wildcats some insurance on a single into center field to score Vaughn and build the lead to 4-2. The Cats put up another run in the eighth when Bloxom blasted a solohome run to right field against a howling wind. The homer was the first by either team in the series. Nebraska closed the gap as it scored a run in the eighth inning when Bubak walked with one out and came around on Adam Bailey's single up the middle to make the score 5-3. The Huskers made it interesting in the ninth as Collins was hit by a pitch from Allen with two outs followed by an infield single from Neer, putting the tying runs on base. But Allen struck out pitch-hitter Cade Thompson to preserve the sweep. Nebraska, just like K-State, also had a trio of players go 2-for-4, including Bailey, who drove in one run. The Wildcats’ next action is a home conference series against Texas A&M, beginning Thursday, April 9, at Tointon Family Stadium. Thursday is Quarter Hot Dog Night at the stadium, while it’s also a Triple Play Weekend. Fans who purchase tickets to Thursday’s and Friday’s game will receive free admission to Saturday’s series finale. Please check www.k-statesports.com for more details. Bob and Lila Snell Award Lekesha Pointer-Allen Scholastic Achievement Award Alyssa Freeman Bob and Lila Snell Award Alex Umberger ESPN The Magazine Academic All-American, 2008-09 Shalee Lehning Jeron Mastrud Scott Sellers Veryl & Fern Switzer Campus Leadership Award Chris Merriewether Counselor Recognition Award Heather Hoffman Gina Sylvester Memorial Award Beverly Ramos Scholar-Athlete Award Loren Groves Scholar-Athlete Award Shalee Lehning Counselor Recognition Award Jennifer Jantsch Counselor Recognition Award Katerina Kudlackova Counselor Recognition Award Danielle Zanotti Scholar-Athlete Award 2008-09 Kansas State Academic Banquet Awards ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District VII, 2008-09 Kelsey Chipman Megan Farr Marlies Gipson Spring Football Report The Kansas State football team has completed the first two of its 15 spring workouts and head coach Bill Snyder has been pleased with what he has seen so far from his squad. “I have been somewhat pleased with the progress from practice one to practice number two,” Snyder said. “The majority of time is being spent on fundamentals and both practices have been without pads due to NCAA rule requirements. We Scott Sellers Loren Groves Tysyn Hartman Jennifer Jantsch Beverly Ramos Abbi Sunner Ashley Sweat time with the kicking game,” Snyder added. “As is true with both offense and defense, the kicking game is at best somewhat inconsistent after the first two days.” “The players’ attitudes have been positive as they attempt to enhance their work habits. As was true during the out of season program, there is still great emphasis being placed on intrinsic values and the capacity for daily improvement and strict focus during meetings and practices. The coaching staff is constantly evaluating players in terms of those intrinsic values as well as their techniques and performance levels.” Kansas State will conclude spring drills on May 2 with the annual Purple and White game. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Receive 3 cents off per gallon of any grade gasoline!! Bring in your used 2008 K-State football and basketball tickets for the discount. 32 OZ. FOUNTAIN DRINKS 59 CENTS BEST GAS PRICES IN TOWN WE CARRY ETHENOL SNICKERS 2 FOR $1.00 ___________________________________________ Marlboro: Pack: $4.59 - Carton: $43.99 Winston: Pack $4.29 - Carton: $40.99 Camel: Pack $4.33 - Carton: $41.49 Pall Mall:Pack $3.49 - Carton: $33.49 Liggett $3.59 - Carton $34.49 Check Our U-Haul Prices Reserve Your U-Hall 323-0307 or 539-2827 - Prices Are Subject To Change Without Notice - Special: Marlboro 3 Pack - $4.40 pack Camel 3 Pack - $4.15 pack Liggett 3Pack - $3.45 pack Fresh DONUTS Every Morning!! NEWS 9A MANHATTAN FREE PRESS - THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2009 Kansas Legislators Pass New Anti-Abortion Bill TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) _ Anti-abortion legislators in Kansas pushed through a bill Friday to step up enforcement of restrictions on lateterm abortions, and some critics saw it as an attempt to embarrass Gov. Kathleen Sebelius. Sebelius is awaiting U.S. Senate confirmation as federal secretary of health and human services, and the strongest opposition to her appointment has come from abortion opponents. She has a long record of supporting abortion rights. The Kansas Senate approved the bill 25-11, hours after the House passed it 82-43. Senators acted without having a hearing or vote in committee, and although many saw the issues as familiar, some complained the bill was rushed. ``These are new issues to me,’‘ Sen. Kelly Kultala, a Kansas City Democrat elected last year, said when the debate started. ``This is the first time I’ve seen this bill, and it landed on my desk five minutes ago.’‘ The bill’s supporters said they’re simply trying to ensure that existing restrictions on late-term abortions are followed. ``The bill holds doctors accountable,’‘ said Sen. Mary Pilcher Cook, an anti-abortion Shawnee Republican. The Legislature has until April 13 to proofread the bill and deliver it to Sebelius, and she’ll have 10 days, perhaps until April 23, to decide whether to sign it. Meanwhile, the U.S. Senate doesn’t return from its Easter recess until April 20. Asked what Sebelius would do, spokeswoman Beth Martino said, ``The governor will carefully review this bill, as she does every bill.’‘ Abortion foes have said they suspect a desire for a smoother confirmation led Sebelius to sign another anti-abortion bill last week. The new law will require doctors who use ultrasound and monitor fetal heartbeats to allow patients to see the images or hear the sound at least 30 minutes before an abortion. Sebelius said she found no constitutional flaws, unlike past anti-abortion measures. The latest bill is tougher, imposing stricter reporting requirements on doctors who perform late-term abortions. Also, if a woman or girl comes to believe her late-term abortion was illegal, she, her husband or parents could sue the doctor for damages. Sebelius vetoed a similar bill last year, but it also included provisions to allow patients or others to seek a court injunction to stop late-term abortions beforehand. ``The anti-abortion, pro-life folks have not gotten any traction in her confirmation hearings,’‘ said state Sen. Pete Brungardt, a Salina Republican and committee chairman who has kept a similar bill bottled up. ``This would give them another daily story.’‘ Supporters said the timing of the votes had nothing to do with Sebelius’ pending confirmation for the HHS job. Some noted that legislators broke Friday for their annual spring break and won’t return until April 29 to wrap up business for the year. Sending the bill to Sebelius now ensures they have time to respond to a veto, they said. Rep. Lance Kinzer, an Olathe Republican who shepherded the bill through the House, said anti-abortion legislators had assumed Sebelius would be confirmed this week. ``We’re concerned about getting it done quickly primarily because we’re running out of legislative time,’‘ he said. The measure arises from disputes involving Dr. George Tiller, whose Wichita clinic is one of the few in the U.S. that perform late-term abortions, including when the fetus is viable. Such abortions are targeted by Kansas law. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment released statistics Friday showing 192 abortions were performed at the 22nd week of pregnancy or later last year when the fetus was viable. That’s 14 percent more than the 168 performed in 2007. But overall, abortions in Kansas declined slightly, from 10,841 in 2007 to 10,642 in 2008. And both abortions and those on viable fetuses have dropped significantly since 2002. Kansas law says abortions on viable fetuses are allowed when a woman or girl faces death or ``substantial and irreversible’‘ harm to ``a major bodily function,’‘ which has been interpreted to include mental health. Doctors must file reports on such abortions with KDHE. The department has said doctors need only say a patient faced death or substantial and irreversible harm, while anti-abortion groups believe Tiller and other providers should be spelling out their medical diagnoses. They believe Tiller does not have legally sufficient reason for some Get the back issues of the Free Press at: manhattanfreepress.com Classifieds Auctions Armsbid.com National Firearms Auction, 201 SE 59th, Topeka, KS. Catalogs - $15. 2,000 lots. Friday & Saturday, April 17-18. Kull’s Old Town Station, 785-862-8800, www.armsbid.com. Hot Tubs, walk in bathtubs, infrared saunas. Direct from factory pricing. Call 1-800-869-0406 for price list and pictures. We deliver. Town Center Showcase, Lincoln, NE. Business Opportunity 100% Recession Proof! Do you earn $800 in a day? Your own local candy route. Includes 25 Machines and Candy. All for $9995. 1-888753-3441. Health/Medical Services/Supplies Up to 80% Savings possible on many medications. Generics now available for Arimidex, Boniva, Domperidone, Lipitor, Plavix and all ED Meds. Canada Drug Topeka 1866-804-6100. Educational MISSOURI WELDING INSTITUTE. Nevada, Missouri. Become a Certified Pipe/Structural Welder. Graduate in 18 weeks, earn up to $35/hour. Companies calling weekly searching for our graduates. 1-800667-5885. Help Wanted Be an ASAI Area Representative or host family. Help high school students from around the world Live their dream in your community. asainternational.com, greatplainskids.com, 1-866-775-5414. For Rent 5/Bedroom $325/Mo! Bank Foreclosure! 4 BR/2BA $199/Mo! 5% down 15 years @ 8% apr. for listings call 1-800-585-3560 ext B738. Affordable HUD Homes! 4/BR $360/Mo! 3/BD 3BA $310/Mo! 5% down 15 years @ 8% apr. for listings call 1-800-585-3560 ext 8468. For Sale Buy Electrolux Vacuums: The original since 1924. Canisters, uprights, shampooers, H.E.P.A. air purifiers, central systems. Starting at $199.99. Free in home demos/service calls. 800-596-4252. Captivating Radio Dramas for the Whole Family! Get in on Gov’t Simulus Now! Heavy Equipment School. 3 wk training program. Backhoes, Bulldozers, Trackhoes. Local job placement asst. Start digging. 866362-6497. Mailing Brochures! Weekly pay + Bonus. Supplies furnished. Guaranteed Opportunity. Call now! 1-800-307-7131. Help Wanted/Truck Driver *No Idle Law, No Problem* 100% APU Equipped. OTR Drivers wanted. Prepass EZPass. Every 60K mile raises. 2006 and newer equipment. Passenger-Pet Policy. 100% No touch. 1-800-528-7825. anti-fungal shampoo treats ringworm and bacterial skin infections in dogs & horses without steroids. Orsheln Farm & Home Stores. (www.happyjackinc.com). Legal Services Social Security disability claims; Saunders & Saunders Attorneys at Law. No recovery, No fee! 1-800259-8548. Steel Buildings For Sale 20x8x8; 40x8x8; 48x8.5x9.5; 53x8.5x9.5 SHIPPING CONTAINERS. Camlock doors, hardwood floors support forklift. Delivery available. 1-785-655-9430 Solomon. www.chuckhenry.com complete web listing, photos, specs, pricing. Manufactured Homes (AAA) $8,000 Federal Government Money. No money down if you have land or family land. Easy, easy financing. Call for prequalification!! 800-841-0033. Special Gov’t Loans for Manufactured Homes. Ask about $8,000 stimulus money. Zero down for land owners. Call today for preapproval. We own the bank! 800375-3115. Misc. Airlines Are Hiring - Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Housing Available. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance. (888) 349-5387. The Methodist Melodies & Joyful Noise children’s choirs of Manhattan First United Methodist Church (FUMC), 6th and Poyntz, will present the musical “Adam’s Apple” by Daniel A. Smith on Sunday, April 19 at the 8:30 and 11 a.m. worship services in the sanctuary and again on Sunday, April 26, at the 8:45 a.m. worship service in the auditorium. “Adam’s Apple” is the story in 8 songs of Adam, Eve, the serpent, and God’s forgiving love. Attend College Online from Home. Medical, Business, Paralegal, Computers, Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 866-858-2121 www.CenturaOnline.com Pet Supplies All New Happy Jack® Xylecide® The Free Press Is Brought To You By These Advertisers Optical Perspectives $29.95 $26.95 $21.95 We’ve Moved to our New Location Larry Kluttz Certified Optician Owner EXP:03-31-07 Exp: 30Apr09 DUANE L. McKINNEY Broker-Appraiser-Inspector APPRAISALS, SALES, PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Suspenseful, values-packed discoveries await you in the town of Odyssey-where something new and exciting is always going on. Whit, Connie and the gang manage to get into all kinds of interesting predicaments, and learn unforgettable biblically based lessons along the way. Your family will be on the edge of their seats as they tune in to each fascinating adventure. It’s fun, character building entertainment for all ages! 9:30 Saturday Mornings (785)539-5105 930 Hayes Drive, Suite E. Manhattan, Kansas Fax: (785)539-2324 Manhattan Realty Services 116 S. 4th St, Suite 2 Manhattan, Ks 66502 _________________________ Phone: 785 776-1010 Fax: 785 539-1026 E-Mail: [email protected] Ta y l o r ’s F a m i l y H a i r C a r e All your Family’s Styling needs See Faye, Marissa or Marianne Booth Rental Available 3tl7 8 5 - 5 3 9 - 7 7 5 1 Monday Thru Saturday 314-C Tuttle Creek Blvd. Manhattan KS NEWS 10A MANHATTAN FREE PRESS - THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2009 Leadership Program Hosts Big Brothers Big Sisters Graduates of the 2008-2009 Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program hosted a Youth Leadership Day on Saturday for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Geary, Riley, and Pottawatomie/ Wabaunsee counties. The event, which was held at Rock Springs 4-H Center in Junction City, was designed to provide children and adults in the BBBS mentoring program an opportunity to spend the day together and foster friendships. Each of the 27 “bigs” and “littles” participated in several group activities, including teambuilding exercises on the low-ropes adventure course, archery and learning how to use non-verbal communications to accomplish team goals, among others. In addition to the day’s activities, participants also received a T-shirt, continental breakfast and sack lunches, compliments of the FHRL Program. Graduates of the 2008-2009 Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program were Trent Armbrust, Project Coordinator, KSU College of Veterinary Medicine; Scot L. Bird, Supervisor Deployment Specialist, Fort Riley; Linda Corbett, Financial Officer, Living Word of Christ Church; Buck Driggs, Office Manager, HWS Consulting Group; Rene Eichem, Executive Director, Kansas Rural Communities Foundation and Wamego Community Foundation; Jamie Farr, Operations Manager, Rock Springs 4-H Center; Shanna Gray, Documentation Coordinator, Farm Bureau Financial Services; Scott Kohl, Wamego Campus Director, Highland Community College; Kim P. (Hank) Nelson, Captain, Riley County Police Department; Lauren Palmer, Assistant City Manager, City of Manhattan; Pamela S. Perry, Workforce Development Specialist, Fort Riley; Dennis J. Proietti, Branch Manager, Central National Bank; Jeff Sackrider, Customer Service Supervisor, Wamego Telecommunications Co.; Della Sass, Office Manager, K-State Research and Extension, Pottawatomie County; Johnette Shepek, Budget and Finance Officer, Riley County; Bonnie Templeton, Kansas Hardwoods, Inc. Hardwood mulch $18 cu yd, Red Cedar mulch, $35 cu yd. Good clean material. Delivery available. 22855 Highway 24 Belvue, KS 66407 Phone: 785-456-8141 Fax: 785-456-8142 E-Mail: [email protected] Big Brothers Big Sisters participated in Youth Leadership Day at Rock Springs 4-H Center. The event was hosted by the Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program class of 2008-2009. Participants at the archery range. Enjoying an outdoor exercise. Coal Fight Stuck TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) _ A contentious political debate over two proposed coalfired power plants in southwest Kansas appears to have been stuck in the same place for more than a year. Sunflower Electric Power Corp. and its allies have enough support in the Legislature to pass a bill to allow the Hays utility to build the two plants in Finney County. But they don’t have quite enough votes to override a veto from Gov. Kathleen Sebelius. But two key personalities are different this year, and legislators expect Sebelius to depart soon for a job as U.S. health and human services secretary. Also, the political backdrop for the debate has changed. The key question for Sunflower and its allies is whether the changes will allow them to get the last few votes they need in the House to override Sebelius’ expected veto of an energy bill headed to her desk. ``That remains to be seen,’‘ said Senate President Steve Morris, a Hugoton Republican, a supporter of Sunflower’s plan, whose district includes its proposed site for the plants outside Holcomb. Sunflower needs an air-quality permit from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, but in October 2007, KDHE Secretary Rod Bremby rejected Logistics Management Specialist, Fort Riley; Jocelyn C. Umberger, Marketing Manager, Manhattan Town Center; and Benjamin R. VanBecelaere, Management Analyst, Fort Riley. an application for the Holcomb project. Bremby cited the plants’ carbon dioxide emissions and invoked his emergency powers to protect the environment and public health. Many legislators believe Bremby overstepped his authority. They also view Sunflower’s project as important economic development. Environmentalists argue, like Bremby, that the state can’t ignore the dangers posed by global warming, which many scientists link to man-made greenhouse gases. And, they add, the state should pursue wind farms and other forms of renewable energy. Four bills _ three approved last year and one passed last week _ all overturn Bremby’s decision and limit the secretary’s power to regulate greenhouse gases and use his emergency powers to reject permits. Sebelius vetoed the three bills last year and is expected to veto this year’s measure. The strategy both years has been the same: Tie the provisions clearing the way for Sunflower’s plants and reining in the KDHE secretary to ``green’‘ measures promoting conservation and renewable energy. Even some opponents of the bills believe a measure without green provisions would pass.