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Elk County, Kansas
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#1
Politics / Re: LIBERTARIANS' LISTENIN' PO...
Last post by CCarl - Yesterday at 06:52:19 AMChalk It Up To Big Government
Only top-down centralized control of marketplaces creates this scenario.
https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/largest-trucking-capacity-purge-history-coming
Expect bare shelves and higher prices, but what's new?
The solution is local and regional markets that supply fresher food, lower costs, AND less dependency on transportation.
Libertarians need to let go of arguing for change in DC. Instead we need to learn to nullify DC, and act through changes to State governments to re-invigorate local markets.
Our biggest problem is very, very few of the talking head Libertarian pundits speak about specific solutions. All they do is criticize the status quo National Fascists in power, and the Democratic Communists who will regain control of DC in the next election, if a next election is allowed.
It is beyond time to think and act locally.
Only top-down centralized control of marketplaces creates this scenario.
https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/largest-trucking-capacity-purge-history-coming
Expect bare shelves and higher prices, but what's new?
The solution is local and regional markets that supply fresher food, lower costs, AND less dependency on transportation.
Libertarians need to let go of arguing for change in DC. Instead we need to learn to nullify DC, and act through changes to State governments to re-invigorate local markets.
Our biggest problem is very, very few of the talking head Libertarian pundits speak about specific solutions. All they do is criticize the status quo National Fascists in power, and the Democratic Communists who will regain control of DC in the next election, if a next election is allowed.
It is beyond time to think and act locally.
#2
Obituaries / WEAVER, Glennis Le Roy - b. Oc...
Last post by patyrn - October 26, 2025, 03:29:33 PMGlennis Le Roy Weaver, age 83, passed away on October 21, 2025 at the Greenwood County Hospital in Eureka, Kansas. He was born October 22, 1941 in rural Elk City, Kansas, the son of Everett David and Mary (Lewis) Weaver.
When he was young, his family moved around following farm work and later settled in Longton, Kansas. Glennis spent his entire life in Elk County and graduated from Longton High School in Longton, Kansas in 1961. He worked various jobs as a substitute mail carrier and retired from Martin Marietta after working there 25 years.
Glennis married Peggy Jo Bryan on August 28, 1979, having been married for 49 years. He loved a good joke, singing country music, and doing woodwork. He made tons of wooden animals for all to enjoy. He also enjoyed tinkering around with old radios. Most importantly, Glennis loved his family, especially his niece, Dorinda and her family, who have helped take care of him and Peggy Jo for the past 10 years.
Including his wife, Peggy Jo, Glennis is survived by his brother, Ray Weaver of Independence, Kansas; his sister, Margie Shulz of Shawnee, Kansas; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Don and Richard; and sisters, Lura Chavez and Ruth Ann Cargile.
Graveside services will be held on Monday, October 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Moline City Cemetery in Moline, Kansas. Memorials in his memory have been suggested to the American Cancer Society and may be left with or sent to the funeral home. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.countrysidefh.com. Services are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349.
(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)
When he was young, his family moved around following farm work and later settled in Longton, Kansas. Glennis spent his entire life in Elk County and graduated from Longton High School in Longton, Kansas in 1961. He worked various jobs as a substitute mail carrier and retired from Martin Marietta after working there 25 years.
Glennis married Peggy Jo Bryan on August 28, 1979, having been married for 49 years. He loved a good joke, singing country music, and doing woodwork. He made tons of wooden animals for all to enjoy. He also enjoyed tinkering around with old radios. Most importantly, Glennis loved his family, especially his niece, Dorinda and her family, who have helped take care of him and Peggy Jo for the past 10 years.
Including his wife, Peggy Jo, Glennis is survived by his brother, Ray Weaver of Independence, Kansas; his sister, Margie Shulz of Shawnee, Kansas; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Don and Richard; and sisters, Lura Chavez and Ruth Ann Cargile.
Graveside services will be held on Monday, October 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Moline City Cemetery in Moline, Kansas. Memorials in his memory have been suggested to the American Cancer Society and may be left with or sent to the funeral home. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.countrysidefh.com. Services are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349.
(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)
#3
Obituaries / FAULKNER, Gregory Lee "Greg" -...
Last post by patyrn - October 23, 2025, 02:18:01 PMGregory Lee Faulkner, formerly of Severy, Kansas, passed away October 17, 2025 surrounded by family at the home of his daughter in El Dorado, Kansas at the age of 77. He was born November 12, 1947 in Eureka, Kansas, the son of Gordon E. "Jack" and Olive Maxine (Barnes) Faulkner.
Greg was raised in Severy, Kansas, graduating from Severy High School. After his schooling, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving in Germany with honor and dignity. He was honorably discharged in 1970. After his military service, he began his family and started driving a truck working for Ritchie Sands and later, Frank Bills.
Greg will be remembered for his unwavering patriotism which was only surpassed by his kind and generous nature. He was a man whose home always had an open door. He had a genuine love for people, and anyone who stopped by was always welcome at his table for a cup of coffee or a cold Budweiser along with some conversation. He freely offered his time, wisdom, and a laugh to friends, family, and strangers alike.
Greg is survived by his daughter, Frances (Darin) Sexton of El Dorado, Kansas; eleven grandchildren, Dustin (Stephanie), Dallas (Christina), Mytrace (Kassie), Eleashia, Myshayla (Bryan), Nina (Josh), Tinisha, Matthew, James, Destanie, and Jackie; numerous great-grandchildren; his little dog, Sis; and his good friends, Sue Clark and Paul Stienmeyer. He was preceded in death by his parents; his stepmother, Hazel Woods Faulkner; his brother, James G. Faulkner; his ex-wife and longtime companion, Judy (Brown) Faulkner; and good friends, Dick Clark and Tony Bahr.
Graveside memorial services will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at South Lawn Cemetery in Severy, Kansas at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Wounded Warriors Project and may be sent in care of Koup Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 595, Eureka, Kansas 67045 which is overseeing arrangements. Condolences for the family may be left online at www.koupfunerals.com.
(taken from the Koup Family Funeral Home website)
Greg was raised in Severy, Kansas, graduating from Severy High School. After his schooling, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving in Germany with honor and dignity. He was honorably discharged in 1970. After his military service, he began his family and started driving a truck working for Ritchie Sands and later, Frank Bills.
Greg will be remembered for his unwavering patriotism which was only surpassed by his kind and generous nature. He was a man whose home always had an open door. He had a genuine love for people, and anyone who stopped by was always welcome at his table for a cup of coffee or a cold Budweiser along with some conversation. He freely offered his time, wisdom, and a laugh to friends, family, and strangers alike.
Greg is survived by his daughter, Frances (Darin) Sexton of El Dorado, Kansas; eleven grandchildren, Dustin (Stephanie), Dallas (Christina), Mytrace (Kassie), Eleashia, Myshayla (Bryan), Nina (Josh), Tinisha, Matthew, James, Destanie, and Jackie; numerous great-grandchildren; his little dog, Sis; and his good friends, Sue Clark and Paul Stienmeyer. He was preceded in death by his parents; his stepmother, Hazel Woods Faulkner; his brother, James G. Faulkner; his ex-wife and longtime companion, Judy (Brown) Faulkner; and good friends, Dick Clark and Tony Bahr.
Graveside memorial services will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at South Lawn Cemetery in Severy, Kansas at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Wounded Warriors Project and may be sent in care of Koup Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 595, Eureka, Kansas 67045 which is overseeing arrangements. Condolences for the family may be left online at www.koupfunerals.com.
(taken from the Koup Family Funeral Home website)
#4
Obituaries / McSWAIN, Jim Dale - b. June 4,...
Last post by patyrn - October 21, 2025, 11:13:30 PMJim Dale McSwain, age 74, of Fall River, Kansas, passed away peacefully in his sleep at Morningstar Care Homes in Fredonia, Kansas on October 21, 2025.
Cremation has been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, and no services are scheduled at this time.
(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)
Cremation has been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, and no services are scheduled at this time.
(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)
#5
Politics / Re: LONGTON'S WOES
Last post by CCarl - October 21, 2025, 07:51:47 AMFixin' What's Wrong Post Three; What The Election Won't Change
7) Here we are, mid-October 2025, with talk of a new sewer fee rising from $26.00 a month to $50.00, or potentially $100.00 a month, to help pay for a high-priced, inflation-driven $5,000,000 sewer repair that will develop problems within half a dozen years after it is completed. Just like the million dollar chip seal on half our roads a few years back. You know, the chip seal that started deteriorating in its third year.
Yes, we have an opportunity to save half that five million dollars, maybe more, and still meet State standards for effluent collection and treatment. Shouldn't we find the least cost alternative that meets State standards, instead of accepting the spoon-fed option the State and Industry want us to eat?
Hopefully the planning phase will acknowledge that three lift stations can economically be eliminated with the users of those lift stations converted to septic tanks and drain fields. That can save $450,000+. Hopefully planning will also identify the 1150 feet of sewer on 5th, west of Douglas, that should be abandoned, and have three properties convert to septic and drain fields. That can save $150,000+. And there may be three or four other ares where similar actions can be taken. Planning phase must be encouraged to complete an Alternatives Analyses. Just those options I mentioned would save $600,000+ of the projected $5,000,000 project.
But the biggest savings would be to abandon the sewer system entirely, and install septic tanks and drain fields for all 155 current users. Septic tanks and drain fields would run about $7500 for a family of four. Septic tanks and mounded drain fields for soils that will not 'perc' would run about $14,000 each. Given the extent of clayey soils with poor drainage we will need mounded drain fields in many areas. As a worst case, assume we require a mound system for everyone in town; that would cost $2.17 million. That is significantly less than half the project the State wants to feed us. It is a lowest cost, practical alternative. AND, IF 1/5 of our residents (for example) do not need a mounded drain field the cost falls to ((155*.2)*7500)+((155*.
*14000) = $1.97 million as the least case alternative. (ASK CASCITY why a smiley face with shades replaces a point eight!!) Isn't that a significant enough savings to fight for?
The debt pay-off reality is that our socialist government will write off 75% of the costs to us, and charge that 75% amount to other taxpayers. That seems like a big freebie to locals with their hands out to do as little as possible, falsely believing things are free.
That 75% cost diversion would mean a $1.25 million liability for our residents for the full blown repair project. BUT, it would mean only a $500,000+/- liability for the lowest cost alternative of septic tanks and drain fields. Which would you prefer as a basis for monthly sewage payments; a $500,000 debt, or a $1.25 million debt?
Oh, remember at $1.25 million, the repaired and lined sewer system will still require an additional monthly charge for continued maintenance of it. The conversion to septic tanks and drain fields will not have a monthly maintenance charge because there will not be a need for city maintenance of them, they become landowner responsibility.
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7) Here we are, mid-October 2025, with talk of a new sewer fee rising from $26.00 a month to $50.00, or potentially $100.00 a month, to help pay for a high-priced, inflation-driven $5,000,000 sewer repair that will develop problems within half a dozen years after it is completed. Just like the million dollar chip seal on half our roads a few years back. You know, the chip seal that started deteriorating in its third year.
Yes, we have an opportunity to save half that five million dollars, maybe more, and still meet State standards for effluent collection and treatment. Shouldn't we find the least cost alternative that meets State standards, instead of accepting the spoon-fed option the State and Industry want us to eat?
Hopefully the planning phase will acknowledge that three lift stations can economically be eliminated with the users of those lift stations converted to septic tanks and drain fields. That can save $450,000+. Hopefully planning will also identify the 1150 feet of sewer on 5th, west of Douglas, that should be abandoned, and have three properties convert to septic and drain fields. That can save $150,000+. And there may be three or four other ares where similar actions can be taken. Planning phase must be encouraged to complete an Alternatives Analyses. Just those options I mentioned would save $600,000+ of the projected $5,000,000 project.
But the biggest savings would be to abandon the sewer system entirely, and install septic tanks and drain fields for all 155 current users. Septic tanks and drain fields would run about $7500 for a family of four. Septic tanks and mounded drain fields for soils that will not 'perc' would run about $14,000 each. Given the extent of clayey soils with poor drainage we will need mounded drain fields in many areas. As a worst case, assume we require a mound system for everyone in town; that would cost $2.17 million. That is significantly less than half the project the State wants to feed us. It is a lowest cost, practical alternative. AND, IF 1/5 of our residents (for example) do not need a mounded drain field the cost falls to ((155*.2)*7500)+((155*.
*14000) = $1.97 million as the least case alternative. (ASK CASCITY why a smiley face with shades replaces a point eight!!) Isn't that a significant enough savings to fight for?The debt pay-off reality is that our socialist government will write off 75% of the costs to us, and charge that 75% amount to other taxpayers. That seems like a big freebie to locals with their hands out to do as little as possible, falsely believing things are free.
That 75% cost diversion would mean a $1.25 million liability for our residents for the full blown repair project. BUT, it would mean only a $500,000+/- liability for the lowest cost alternative of septic tanks and drain fields. Which would you prefer as a basis for monthly sewage payments; a $500,000 debt, or a $1.25 million debt?
Oh, remember at $1.25 million, the repaired and lined sewer system will still require an additional monthly charge for continued maintenance of it. The conversion to septic tanks and drain fields will not have a monthly maintenance charge because there will not be a need for city maintenance of them, they become landowner responsibility.
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#6
Politics / Re: LONGTON'S WOES
Last post by CCarl - October 21, 2025, 07:46:39 AMFixin' What's Wrong Post Two; What The Election Won't Change
5) I think most town folks know we have a new owner of the old bank building. His intention appears to be to make something of it. I admit to being worried when I heard someone was squatting in the old building. That changed when I learned someone had invested their wealth in the building and intends on living there. The squatter is the owner. I say now, 'more power to him'. And here is the classical example of why the City's off-again, on-again urge to remove old buildings is so ridiculous. Demolition is a cost to the taxpayer, it is a loss of salvageable, reusable materials, and it is a loss of opportunity for prospective land owners. The City needs more opportunity than it needs additional fiscal liability.
Look at this development, and consider the waste of money the City wants to spend on a $3,000.00 or so grapple for its Skidster to help demolish old buildings. Consider the opportunity that is lost when old structures are demolished. See the positive side of old buildings, see the opportunity. Do not spend taxpayer money frivolously.
I heard two years ago that the brick walls of the old bank building were not stable enough to support a roof structure. The intention back then was to construct weight-bearing walls immediately inside the brick walls, and support a new roof on the new walls. Then the brick walls would somehow be anchored to the new walls to stabilize the brick.
That sounds relatively expensive. Here is a less expensive option, without even knowing what the new owner may, or may not, want. This town must have six or so people who know how to work with brick and mortar. Voluntary help was a force behind the growth of this country from the 1780's through the 1850's, maybe into the 1890's. Six people, with the experience, could voluntarily disassemble those old brick walls, clean the brick, and rebuild the walls. That would be the maximum use of the resource at hand, the minimum cost to the landowner, and no cost to taxpayers. It is win-win-win, and it reflects the folly of subsidies and public funds. This is how Americans built our culture. It is the only way our town might recover.
6) About 2012 I looked for and found a listing for a Small Business Incubator in Elk County. I found a phone number and called one evening. The man on the other end did not want to talk about the business incubator. The group of people directing its efforts were at a cross road and were no longer meeting, according to a less than two minute conversation I had.
What a shame. This is another area where public funds may be wisely spent. I had just moved here from another State, from a rural County of 30,000 folks with a County seat of 5,500. There, the small business incubator was busy every day of the year. Space for some activities were reserved two to three weeks ahead. Evening seminars about business opportunities, new products, marketing techniques, and government requirements for retailing were held monthly. It had a kitchen busy with canned and baked products for the regional retail market. It provided catalog resources for equipment a family may need for a start-up. And it provided contacts to lending institutions to assist start-ups. It was wildly successful and the small business growth in the county easily paid for the public funding, in this case.
The demographics there were much different than here. On demographics alone, an incubator may be too expensive to develop and operate as a City entity. It may need to cover four or five counties. But finding a small business incubator nearby, and having someone from it visit us to discuss how it works and who benefits may be fruitful.
There is one other source of potential help/advice on how to aid our community. Winfield has a several block area of its downtown being developed by "Farm to Table" businesses. Take a drive to see what is going on, talk to the people taking responsibility with their own investments. Maybe some of them would like to visit our town and lay out some steps that would add business opportunity.
5) I think most town folks know we have a new owner of the old bank building. His intention appears to be to make something of it. I admit to being worried when I heard someone was squatting in the old building. That changed when I learned someone had invested their wealth in the building and intends on living there. The squatter is the owner. I say now, 'more power to him'. And here is the classical example of why the City's off-again, on-again urge to remove old buildings is so ridiculous. Demolition is a cost to the taxpayer, it is a loss of salvageable, reusable materials, and it is a loss of opportunity for prospective land owners. The City needs more opportunity than it needs additional fiscal liability.
Look at this development, and consider the waste of money the City wants to spend on a $3,000.00 or so grapple for its Skidster to help demolish old buildings. Consider the opportunity that is lost when old structures are demolished. See the positive side of old buildings, see the opportunity. Do not spend taxpayer money frivolously.
I heard two years ago that the brick walls of the old bank building were not stable enough to support a roof structure. The intention back then was to construct weight-bearing walls immediately inside the brick walls, and support a new roof on the new walls. Then the brick walls would somehow be anchored to the new walls to stabilize the brick.
That sounds relatively expensive. Here is a less expensive option, without even knowing what the new owner may, or may not, want. This town must have six or so people who know how to work with brick and mortar. Voluntary help was a force behind the growth of this country from the 1780's through the 1850's, maybe into the 1890's. Six people, with the experience, could voluntarily disassemble those old brick walls, clean the brick, and rebuild the walls. That would be the maximum use of the resource at hand, the minimum cost to the landowner, and no cost to taxpayers. It is win-win-win, and it reflects the folly of subsidies and public funds. This is how Americans built our culture. It is the only way our town might recover.
6) About 2012 I looked for and found a listing for a Small Business Incubator in Elk County. I found a phone number and called one evening. The man on the other end did not want to talk about the business incubator. The group of people directing its efforts were at a cross road and were no longer meeting, according to a less than two minute conversation I had.
What a shame. This is another area where public funds may be wisely spent. I had just moved here from another State, from a rural County of 30,000 folks with a County seat of 5,500. There, the small business incubator was busy every day of the year. Space for some activities were reserved two to three weeks ahead. Evening seminars about business opportunities, new products, marketing techniques, and government requirements for retailing were held monthly. It had a kitchen busy with canned and baked products for the regional retail market. It provided catalog resources for equipment a family may need for a start-up. And it provided contacts to lending institutions to assist start-ups. It was wildly successful and the small business growth in the county easily paid for the public funding, in this case.
The demographics there were much different than here. On demographics alone, an incubator may be too expensive to develop and operate as a City entity. It may need to cover four or five counties. But finding a small business incubator nearby, and having someone from it visit us to discuss how it works and who benefits may be fruitful.
There is one other source of potential help/advice on how to aid our community. Winfield has a several block area of its downtown being developed by "Farm to Table" businesses. Take a drive to see what is going on, talk to the people taking responsibility with their own investments. Maybe some of them would like to visit our town and lay out some steps that would add business opportunity.
#7
Politics / Re: LONGTON'S WOES
Last post by CCarl - October 21, 2025, 07:43:20 AMFixin' What's Wrong Post One; What The Election Won't Change
I've posed most of these suggestions to three folks in town, who have all lived here over 40 years. They agreed with the assessments, and said they would like to see these changes made. Then they added, "But most people in town don't give a sh!te, don't waste your breath trying, no one cares." I'm learning the truth to that, unfortunately, not enough care.
Nonetheless, residents have the Right to manage their own town and their own property as they choose. In that vein, here are seven suggestions in three posts that the residents of our dying town in the fifth poorest County in the State might consider doing to improve their lives.
1) Merge the City fire department with the County fire department, AND eliminate the ridiculous duplicity that costs residents money they do not have. Funnel those savings into reduced taxation.
2) If lawyers and government authorities tell you laws require both City and County jurisdictions to have fire departments, then look seriously into disincorporation now. In light of all the bankruptcies, lay-offs, closing businesses, government debt, and price inflation mixed with our town's vacant business district, disincorporation is probably the town's fate. America's destiny is now a third world country. Two hundred and eighty town folks cannot change the latter. But we can be proactive, disincorporating to simplify life significantly, reduce taxes, and place more choice and control in the hands of landowners. BUT, it needs to be done before it is no longer allowed.
3) Organize a city-wide volunteer transportation system to take sick neighbors to the hospital when it is urgently needed. A ambulance located 19 miles away is never the first responder, a neighbor is. The ambulance is 25 to 30 minutes away, then another 20 minutes to a hospital. A neighbor can take a sick neighbor to the hospital from our town in 20 minutes, with less delay and less bureaucracy.
This would require a voluntary commitment of a dozen adults, licensed to drive, and a registered private vehicle to use. It might work like this; two drivers on call 24/7 for 5 days, followed by 2 more drivers for another 5 days, etc. That would mean being on call every 30 days. Volunteer drivers would not be paid for their time. The sick neighbor would have to sit like a normal passenger. If sick neighbors needed oxygen, they would need to transport it and use it themselves. The driver could not perform anything resembling a medical or nursing procedure.
When this all-volunteer system is functioning, it would be time to lean real hard on the County Commissioners to reduce funding of the EMS, and reduce property taxes for all residents. Replace the Commissioners if they are not co-operative. Their sworn duty is to serve the public. And that means that they are our servants, not the masters they act like. The goal is two-fold, improve transportation of sick neighbors needing medical care, AND reduce taxation.
4) Regardless of the outcome of the fire department's duplicity, the town's fire department needs to do this, and this will cost some taxpayer money. It is well spent, however. Once again the fire department(s), like the EMS, is/are not the first responder(s) to a fire. The home owner, if at home, is. And a neighbor could very well also be. This is especially true where volunteer fire fighters must come from home to the fire station before reaching the fire. It is a critical issue of timing to catch fires before they spread.
The fire department needs to purchase a fire extinguisher for every occupied home and apartment in town, and two for larger, multi-story homes with larger families. Once a year the fire department needs to offer a week of open-house when residents come with their extinguishers, have them checked and recharged as necessary, and have lessons in using them properly. Other than servicing our water line, this is the best bang for the buck that our City's so-called public funds can be spent for. As a side, it may also develop additional interest in becoming volunteer firemen and firewomen.
I've posed most of these suggestions to three folks in town, who have all lived here over 40 years. They agreed with the assessments, and said they would like to see these changes made. Then they added, "But most people in town don't give a sh!te, don't waste your breath trying, no one cares." I'm learning the truth to that, unfortunately, not enough care.
Nonetheless, residents have the Right to manage their own town and their own property as they choose. In that vein, here are seven suggestions in three posts that the residents of our dying town in the fifth poorest County in the State might consider doing to improve their lives.
1) Merge the City fire department with the County fire department, AND eliminate the ridiculous duplicity that costs residents money they do not have. Funnel those savings into reduced taxation.
2) If lawyers and government authorities tell you laws require both City and County jurisdictions to have fire departments, then look seriously into disincorporation now. In light of all the bankruptcies, lay-offs, closing businesses, government debt, and price inflation mixed with our town's vacant business district, disincorporation is probably the town's fate. America's destiny is now a third world country. Two hundred and eighty town folks cannot change the latter. But we can be proactive, disincorporating to simplify life significantly, reduce taxes, and place more choice and control in the hands of landowners. BUT, it needs to be done before it is no longer allowed.
3) Organize a city-wide volunteer transportation system to take sick neighbors to the hospital when it is urgently needed. A ambulance located 19 miles away is never the first responder, a neighbor is. The ambulance is 25 to 30 minutes away, then another 20 minutes to a hospital. A neighbor can take a sick neighbor to the hospital from our town in 20 minutes, with less delay and less bureaucracy.
This would require a voluntary commitment of a dozen adults, licensed to drive, and a registered private vehicle to use. It might work like this; two drivers on call 24/7 for 5 days, followed by 2 more drivers for another 5 days, etc. That would mean being on call every 30 days. Volunteer drivers would not be paid for their time. The sick neighbor would have to sit like a normal passenger. If sick neighbors needed oxygen, they would need to transport it and use it themselves. The driver could not perform anything resembling a medical or nursing procedure.
When this all-volunteer system is functioning, it would be time to lean real hard on the County Commissioners to reduce funding of the EMS, and reduce property taxes for all residents. Replace the Commissioners if they are not co-operative. Their sworn duty is to serve the public. And that means that they are our servants, not the masters they act like. The goal is two-fold, improve transportation of sick neighbors needing medical care, AND reduce taxation.
4) Regardless of the outcome of the fire department's duplicity, the town's fire department needs to do this, and this will cost some taxpayer money. It is well spent, however. Once again the fire department(s), like the EMS, is/are not the first responder(s) to a fire. The home owner, if at home, is. And a neighbor could very well also be. This is especially true where volunteer fire fighters must come from home to the fire station before reaching the fire. It is a critical issue of timing to catch fires before they spread.
The fire department needs to purchase a fire extinguisher for every occupied home and apartment in town, and two for larger, multi-story homes with larger families. Once a year the fire department needs to offer a week of open-house when residents come with their extinguishers, have them checked and recharged as necessary, and have lessons in using them properly. Other than servicing our water line, this is the best bang for the buck that our City's so-called public funds can be spent for. As a side, it may also develop additional interest in becoming volunteer firemen and firewomen.
#8
Obituaries / BUCK, Clifford Thomas - b. Jan...
Last post by patyrn - October 18, 2025, 08:50:03 PMClifford Thomas Buck who was most at home in the vast landscape of the outdoors, passed away on October 1, 2025 at his home in Piedmont, Kansas at the age of 76. He was born on January 10, 1949 in Pittsburg, Kansas, the son of Morris Walter and Esther Zella (Biddle) Buck.
Clifford was raised in Pittsburg, attending Holy Cross Lutheran Grade School and Adams Elementary. The family later moved to Wichita, Kansas where he attended East High School. From a young age, he had an intense interest in motors and cars, owning his first car before his teen years. His passion led him to spend time building cars and heavily engaging in drag racing. He later went to California to learn Motocross racing which he pursued for several years.
Upon returning to Wichita, he and his father founded Perimeter Fencing in Piedmont. They operated the business together for several years, securing contracts for various state and federal projects. Clifford was a true woodsman, dedicated to a lifelong love of the outdoors. He spent countless hours fishing and hunting, and his expertise led him to dedicated years raising and training coonhounds to run the trail. He also possessed a skillful hand, running a side business trapping and preparing pelts from muskrats and was equally adept at fine cabinet carpentry.
On June 6, 1981, Clifford was united in marriage to Linda Sue Keleher in Wichita, Kansas. They made their home in Piedmont, Kansas, and to this union, three children were born. Clifford later in life worked as a truck driver for Cornejo and Sons Construction, eventually retiring in the mid-2010s to spend more time on his quiet outdoor pursuits.
Clifford is survived by his children, Rachael Buck of Eureka, Kansas, Jesse Buck of Piedmont, Kansas, and Dillon Buck of Wichita, Kansas; eight grandchildren, Keegan Beach, Ken Comer, Channing Comer, Thaddeus Buck, Avalyn Buck, Cole Burtin, Bethany Buck, and Delilah Buck; one great-grandson, Heston Beach who is due to arrive soon; and two siblings, Sally Ann Wilson of Wichita, Kansas and Lawrence Paul Buck of Swarthmore, Pennsylvania. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, David Morris Buck, leaving the woods quieter in his absence.
Funeral services were held on October 14, 2025 at Koup Family Funeral Home in Eureka, Kansas with Rev. Sue Ellen Wenthe of Christ Lutheran Church in Eureka officiating. Interment followed at Piedmont Cemetery where his body will be returned to the beloved earth he roamed. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Kansas Wildlife Federation. Contributions may be sent in care of Koup Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 595, Eureka, Kansas 67045 which is overseeing arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.koupfunerals.com.
(taken from the Koup Family Funeral Home website)
Clifford was raised in Pittsburg, attending Holy Cross Lutheran Grade School and Adams Elementary. The family later moved to Wichita, Kansas where he attended East High School. From a young age, he had an intense interest in motors and cars, owning his first car before his teen years. His passion led him to spend time building cars and heavily engaging in drag racing. He later went to California to learn Motocross racing which he pursued for several years.
Upon returning to Wichita, he and his father founded Perimeter Fencing in Piedmont. They operated the business together for several years, securing contracts for various state and federal projects. Clifford was a true woodsman, dedicated to a lifelong love of the outdoors. He spent countless hours fishing and hunting, and his expertise led him to dedicated years raising and training coonhounds to run the trail. He also possessed a skillful hand, running a side business trapping and preparing pelts from muskrats and was equally adept at fine cabinet carpentry.
On June 6, 1981, Clifford was united in marriage to Linda Sue Keleher in Wichita, Kansas. They made their home in Piedmont, Kansas, and to this union, three children were born. Clifford later in life worked as a truck driver for Cornejo and Sons Construction, eventually retiring in the mid-2010s to spend more time on his quiet outdoor pursuits.
Clifford is survived by his children, Rachael Buck of Eureka, Kansas, Jesse Buck of Piedmont, Kansas, and Dillon Buck of Wichita, Kansas; eight grandchildren, Keegan Beach, Ken Comer, Channing Comer, Thaddeus Buck, Avalyn Buck, Cole Burtin, Bethany Buck, and Delilah Buck; one great-grandson, Heston Beach who is due to arrive soon; and two siblings, Sally Ann Wilson of Wichita, Kansas and Lawrence Paul Buck of Swarthmore, Pennsylvania. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, David Morris Buck, leaving the woods quieter in his absence.
Funeral services were held on October 14, 2025 at Koup Family Funeral Home in Eureka, Kansas with Rev. Sue Ellen Wenthe of Christ Lutheran Church in Eureka officiating. Interment followed at Piedmont Cemetery where his body will be returned to the beloved earth he roamed. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Kansas Wildlife Federation. Contributions may be sent in care of Koup Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 595, Eureka, Kansas 67045 which is overseeing arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.koupfunerals.com.
(taken from the Koup Family Funeral Home website)
#9
Politics / Re: NATURAL RIGHTS & FREEDOM
Last post by CCarl - October 17, 2025, 08:26:02 AMLawless America
Nationally, more than 70% of individuals rounded up by ICE have no criminal convictions. Many have lived in the U.S. for decades, raised families, paid taxes, contributed to the economy, and worked the jobs most Americans refuse to do.
Here is the rest of the story; https://www.rutherford.org/publications_resources/john_whiteheads_commentary/police_state_bounty_hunters_the_rise_of_ices_unconstitutional_war_on_america
Nationally, more than 70% of individuals rounded up by ICE have no criminal convictions. Many have lived in the U.S. for decades, raised families, paid taxes, contributed to the economy, and worked the jobs most Americans refuse to do.
Here is the rest of the story; https://www.rutherford.org/publications_resources/john_whiteheads_commentary/police_state_bounty_hunters_the_rise_of_ices_unconstitutional_war_on_america
#10
Obituaries / HOWELL, Harold "Lee" - June 7,...
Last post by patyrn - October 14, 2025, 12:02:32 PMHarold "Lee" Howell, age 81, of Howard, Kansas, passed away on October 10, 2025. He was born on June 7, 1944 in Winfield, Kansas to Harold Logan Howell and Lillian Lucille (Bonnell) Howell.
Lee graduated from Howard High School in 1962. He then worked construction for his father before proudly joining the United States Army where he was stationed in Germany. After his military service, he began a lifelong career in construction, first working alongside his father and later with several companies including Shore and Sons, George Myers Construction, and Sherwood Construction. After retiring, Lee found a need to stay busy and worked for Harrod's Inc.
Lee grew up in a family that performed at rodeos where he showcased his skills in trick roping. However, it's been said that he would rather chase girls at those events than perform along with the family.
In January of 1967, Lee married the love of his life, Kay Thurman, and soon added two daughters to complete their loving family. Lee and Kay built a wonderful life for themselves and their daughters in Howard. In order to provide for Kay and the girls, Lee often worked away from home. Although he did not receive a college education, through his hard work and eagerness to learn, he was able to achieve the position of superintendent of multi-million-dollar construction projects.
Lee's daughters were the light of his life and the center of his universe. Then they gave him grandchildren who took over that role. Attending his grandchildren's sporting events gave him immense pride. Lee also enjoyed tinkering with cars, refurbishing old pendulum clocks, KU basketball, and golf. Lee will be remembered for his dedication to provide for and protect his family, his hard nose approach to work, and his orneriness.
Lee is survived by his wife, Kay Howell; daughters, Gina (Craig) Wilson and Stacy Howell; grandchildren, Tristen Wilson, Rae'Ven Loudermilk, Isaiahh Loudermilk, and Devin Loudermilk; his sister, Pat McKinley; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents as well as his grandson, Damon Lee Wilson whom he missed greatly.
Cremation has been requested with a graveside Celebration of Life service to be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at10:30 am. at Cresco Cemetery north of Howard, Kansas. The family has established a memorial for American Legion Carter-Rader Post #0149. Those can be left with or mailed to the funeral home. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.countrysidefh.com. Services are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349.
(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)
Lee graduated from Howard High School in 1962. He then worked construction for his father before proudly joining the United States Army where he was stationed in Germany. After his military service, he began a lifelong career in construction, first working alongside his father and later with several companies including Shore and Sons, George Myers Construction, and Sherwood Construction. After retiring, Lee found a need to stay busy and worked for Harrod's Inc.
Lee grew up in a family that performed at rodeos where he showcased his skills in trick roping. However, it's been said that he would rather chase girls at those events than perform along with the family.
In January of 1967, Lee married the love of his life, Kay Thurman, and soon added two daughters to complete their loving family. Lee and Kay built a wonderful life for themselves and their daughters in Howard. In order to provide for Kay and the girls, Lee often worked away from home. Although he did not receive a college education, through his hard work and eagerness to learn, he was able to achieve the position of superintendent of multi-million-dollar construction projects.
Lee's daughters were the light of his life and the center of his universe. Then they gave him grandchildren who took over that role. Attending his grandchildren's sporting events gave him immense pride. Lee also enjoyed tinkering with cars, refurbishing old pendulum clocks, KU basketball, and golf. Lee will be remembered for his dedication to provide for and protect his family, his hard nose approach to work, and his orneriness.
Lee is survived by his wife, Kay Howell; daughters, Gina (Craig) Wilson and Stacy Howell; grandchildren, Tristen Wilson, Rae'Ven Loudermilk, Isaiahh Loudermilk, and Devin Loudermilk; his sister, Pat McKinley; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents as well as his grandson, Damon Lee Wilson whom he missed greatly.
Cremation has been requested with a graveside Celebration of Life service to be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at10:30 am. at Cresco Cemetery north of Howard, Kansas. The family has established a memorial for American Legion Carter-Rader Post #0149. Those can be left with or mailed to the funeral home. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.countrysidefh.com. Services are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349.
(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)
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