Sunday, November 29, 2009

Love...

Love lifts,
Love believes,
Love hopes,
Love endures.

VLE-B

Good philosophy...

Live simply,
Love generously,
Speak kindly,
And leave the rest to God...

VLE-B

Washer and Dryer For Sale

A man in Garden City has a very good washing machine and dryer for sale. The total cost for the pair is $350.00. He would take $175.00 down and the other $175.00 later.

If you are interested, please call Raul Quezada at 620-276-9306 or 620-640-1124. His address is 407 West Mary Street.

VLE-B

Dog/cat neutering and healthcare clinics in Wichita County

November's clinic for the neutering and healthcare of dogs and cats in Leoti was a smashing success! Originally, it was thought that the clinics would be held every two months. Instead, it has now been determinded that the clinics should be held EVERY month because of the overwhelming need here. It is NOT just for Wichita County pets!!! ANYONE can bring their pets to the Veterinary Clinic here in Leoti. Dr. Hillbig from Lakin and his assistent, his wife, will be performing these services.

I met the Hilbigs for the first time at the original clinic when our dogs, Brutus and Princess, were neutered and received their annual shots. I was totally amazed by the couple! Not only were they special people but they were superb with each and every animal that came through their doors. I TOTALLY recommend them to YOU!!!

The Foundation raises money through various open houses, fundraisers and donations. It then, provides the money to pay for 1/2 of the neutering costs per animal. The pet-owner then pays the other half of the surgery at the time of neutering. The cost of neutering a male is $20.00 and the cost to spay a female is $25.00. Regular shots are also available at the clinic.

At this time, I do not know when the next 2-day clinic will be held. As soon as I have that information, I will put it on my blog.

VLE-B

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Leoti family's update

A good friend of mine who speaks Spanish fluently helped me speak to our neighbor whose husband was killed in the car wreck earlier this month. As of today, the lady is pleased that with the donations from people, they have been able to pay their November bills. Of course, December is just around the corner so she is concerned now with getting those paid.

The family is so EXCITED about the new bunkbeds that our great friends are giving to them!!!They are so happy that they will no longer be snuggling up on a hard cold floor at night! Someone else gave them a kitchen stove which they are very appreciative of.

The children could really use some clothes for Winter. They do NOT have to be new. as the old saying goes, "one man's trash is another man's treasure." The older I get, the more life experience that I have, the more I realize just how true that really is...

The baby is nine-months-old now. She is already wearing clothes for 12-month-olds.

The only boy is 3-years-old but he is big for his age. He wears size 6's.

The older daughter is 5-years-old. She wears size 7-8.

Anyone who has bought diapers and/or diaper wipes lately, knows that they are not cheap especially when they are bought continuosly. They could definitely use some if you're interested in getting them some. Toilet paper, laundry soap, dishsoap is always needed also.

As of right now, they have enough food for a couple of weeks.

If you want to give the family Christmas gifts, I would suggest that if you speak Spanish that you go to speak with the wife during the schoolday when the older kids are not at home. If you need my friend to translate, please let me know. The neighbor told my friend today that she is very concerned that her kids will not have any gifts.

Thank you very much for anything that you can do!!! PLEASE keep sending up prayers for the family!!!

VLE-B

Friday, November 27, 2009

Additional information for the family across the street...

I CANNOT tell you how many tears have flooded my eyes today!!! In this case, that is a good thing! As you know, I mentioned what a tough time our neighbors are having since their husband/daddy was killed in a car accident. One friend told me that the Leoti Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts are gathering stocking stuffers for the three kids. Another lady is going to request that her 4-Hers start gathering gifts. Then earlier this evening, a dear friend of mine callled me to let me know that she and her husband are giving the family a bunkbed WITH MATTRESSES!!! No longer will these little ones be forced to sleep on a cold hard floor!

Who says that our world's inhabitants are all stuck in selfish gear??? This is proof positive to me that Leoti, at least, still has some outstanding people here who are doing their best to help less fortunate people.

God bless each and every one of you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

VLE-B

Onion Casserole Recipe

I don't think that I have even heard of an onion casserole until yesterday when we enjoyed it tremendously at our Thanksgiving Dinner. You just have to try this! Maybe your family would enjoy it for Christmas?

Onion Casserole
Originally from Taste of Home--a 1997 issue

6 medium yellow onions
1/4 cup butter or margarine
1/2 cup beef broth
1/2 cup whipping cream
2 tablespoons flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/2 c. shredded Swiss cheese
1/2 c. grated parmeson cheese

Slice onions into 1/2 inch rings, saute in butter until tender. Place in a greased 8 inch square baking dish. In a bowl, combine broth, cream, flour, salt and pepper. Stir until smooth; pour over onions. Sprinkle with cheeses.

Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Yield: 8 servings.

VLE-B

Thursday, November 26, 2009

A request for help.

This morning, I spoke with one of our very best friends. She told me that our neighbors who lost their husband/daddy a couple of weeks ago are really struggling, not only emotionally but financially, etc. The survivors include a mother who speaks very little English, a 6-month-old baby and two preschool-aged children-- a girl and a boy.

Since her husband's untimely death, she has tried very unsuccessfully to find employment in Leoti. They do not want welfare! However, since her knowledge of the English language is very minimal, she has not been able to even find a part-time job. If you are interested in hiring someone to clean your house, etc., could you please let me know? We have friends who can translate your instructions to her in Spanish.

They came to Leoti with their clothes and a baby bed--little else. Since their move here, they have been able to find living room furniture. Their older children are having to sleep on the cold floor. If you have any bed that you are willing to sell for a small amount, please let me know. I doubt if there is enough room in their house for anything larger than a full-sized bed. A twin-sized bed would be great for them! At least, they wouldn't have to sleep on the floor anymore. We have plenty good bedding for their bed that we will give to them.

To top everything off, Christmas is just a few weeks away now. With no money coming into the household, it is doubtful that any presents will appear under their Christmas tree. If you can help with the purchase of toys, etc, PLEASE let me know. Fortunately, Dollar General is right here in town. Linda has brought in a nice selection of inexpensive toys.

Please call me at 375-4584 or email me at slblaus@gmail.com

Christmas is all about giving...

VLE-B

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Luverne Keith--Tribune

Luverne Keith of Tribune, was born on November 15th, 1929 in Fairview Oklahoma and passed away on November 22nd, 2009 at the Greeley County Hospital in Tribune, Ks. She was 80-years-old. She married Luther L. Keith on December 23rd, 1947 in Moreland, Kansas. He passed away on November 11th, 1999.

She worked for many years as the secretary of Farm Bureau and as Greeley County's Deputy Appraiser for 11 1/2 years.

She is survived by one son, Luther and Claudia Keith of Wichita, one daughter, Mary Keith, of Dodge City, one grandson and 2 great-grandsons.

She was preceded in death by her parents, step-mother, Mabel Strecker, a former Leoti resident, a step-brother, Gene Thacker, and one great-grandson, Corbin Keith.

Her funeral will be held at 10:30 MST on Wednesday, November 25th, at the United Methodist Church in Tribune.

Interment will be at the Greeley County Cemetery south of Tribune.

Memorials may be given to the Greeley County EMS in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.

Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.

VLE-B

Monday, November 23, 2009

Ex-Wichita Countian Wins Special Award

This information was sent on to me this morning by a good friend so that it could be posted in my blog. I am only too happy to pass that on to all of you!

Roger Pearson, retired administrator of Ellsworth County Medical Center of Ellsworth, Kansas and currently working on special projects for Salina Regional Health Center, was awarded the Charles S. Billings Award by the members of the Kansas Hospital Association. He was honored on November 12th, 2009 during the Annual Convention and Trade Show in Wichita.

The Charles S. Billings Award, named after the association's first president, was created in 1971 to recognize distinguished service and outstanding contributions to the field of health care in Kansas.

After farming from 1965-1981, Pearson took his first hospital administrator position at Wichita County Hospital in Leoti. He also held similar positions in Ulysses and Iola before coming to Ellsworth in 1993.

VLE-B

Friday, November 20, 2009

Violet F. Schneider--Leoti

Viola Schneider, 77, passed away on Thursday, November 19th, at the Wichita County Health Center in Leoti. She was born on July 8th, 1932 in Beatrice, Nebraska. A retired bank switchboard operator, her career was mainly spent in Denver, Colorado.

She was of the Lutheran faith.

Viola married Posey Schenider on November 7th, 1955. He passed away in 1980 in Denver.

She is survivied by her son, Floyd, grandson, Dylan, both of Marienthal and one granddaughter, Florida, one sister and one niece in Colorado.

Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later time in Denver.

Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.

VLE-B

Additional Concert Information

We received our tickets yesterday along with this pamphlet that I spoke about earlier. From the pamphlet, I also learned that this same concert will also be held in Meade, Ks. on the following evening, Saturday, December 5th. There are some major changes in Meade that I will write later in this post.

Jaime Jorge, who is a world renowned violinist, will deliver a stunning and elegant musical ode to Christmas in these events.

Now here is where everything gets tricky.

The Scott City event on Friday, December 4th, at 7:00 will be held at the Scott Community High School Auditorium. This concert is available on a strictly donation basis. No banquet will be involved with the Scott City concert. All donations from this concert will be used to develop KJIL's new Christian Radio Station going up in Scott City.

There will be a concert with Jaime Jorge and a catered banquet in Meade on the following night, Saturday, December 5th, at 6:30. It will be held at the Forst Center. Ticket prices in Meade are $20.00 per person. Each ticket covers the concert and the banquet. All gifts above $20.00 will be used to help the ministry of Great Plains Christian Radio finish the year strong.

Seating is very limited so reservations are strongly recommended. Please call 620-873-2991 to order tickets for Scott City and Meade. They will be directly mailed to your mailbox.

KJIL KHYM
Radio for Life Praise and Encouragement



See you in Scott City!!!

VLE-B

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Ellen Drake--Scott City

Ellen Drake was born on June 2nd, 1935 in Brooklyn, New York and passed away on Monday, November 16th, 2009 at Scott County Hospital. She was 74.

In 1941, she moved to Scott County with her family where she graduated from SCHS in 1953. After that, she received her Bachelors Degree in Cultural Anthropology in 1957. Ms. Drake received her Masters of Science Degree in Wildlife from Utah State University in 1969. Ms. Drake traveled the world for many years and lived in India, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Kenya and Botswana. She returned to Scott City from Botswana, Africa in 2006.

She is described as a free spirit, biologist, artist, freelance journalist, researcher and photograper. She was a research assistant for Jane Goodall's work with chimpanzees in Tazania and as a journalist for the Ethiopian Tourist Organization. Ms. Drake aslo authored two published books, CATS IN THE COSMOS and A BOOK OF BAOBABS.

She is survived by one nephew, Jeffry Drake of Fairbanks, Alaska, two nieces, Susan Duff of Scott City and Lysa Vattimo of Aloha, Oregon and several great nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be held at a later date. Inurnment will in the Scott County Cemetery.

VLE-B

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Shannon Lynn Williams--Tribune and Wichita

Shannon Lynn Williams, 28, was born on December 14th, 1980 in Goodland, Ks. and died on Sunday, November 15th, at Via Christi-St. Frances Medical Center in Wichita.

She was a student and had been a Wichita resident since 1997 moving from Tribune, Kansas. She was a 2001 graduate of South High School of Wichita.

She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Tribune as well as The Adult Learning Center and The Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation in Wichita.

She is survived by her father , Harold Lee Williams of Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, her parents Anne Marie and Alan Morgan, of Wichita. A brother, Aaron Morgan, a sister, Jessica Morgan, her grandparents, Jess and Betty Morgan--all of Wichita.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 MDT, on Thursday, November 19th, at the First Presbyterian Church in Tribune. Burial will be in the Greeley County Cemetary south of Tribune.

Memorials may be given to Shannon L. Williams Memorial Fund in care of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.

VLE-B

Amazing, shocking and irritating occurence

This morning I felt amazed, shocked and irritated all rolled up in one situation.

As I've mentioned before, one of Leoti's school bus stops is located at our house. Most of the kids who board the bus here, come inside first where they wait for the bus to arrive. This morning, one of the kids accidentally left her day-planner on our foyer table. She called to make sure that she had left it here. I told her that I would take it to the high school for her.

The amazing thing is that I actually got to school BEFORE the tardy bell rang! That was not always the case when I went to school in the dark ages...

Keep in mind that not only do high school students attend school there but so do 7th and 8th graders. (That is not normally the case but since the new school buildings will be constructed soon, it was decided that 6th graders would go to the grade school and the rest would be in the high school.) Even with extra grades at the high school, the student population was TINY in comparison to when I went to school here. (I graduated in 1980.) I am hoping that once the new buildings are in place, that our school numbers will increase. Even though Leoti is known for it's excellence in teachers and staff, some people who were looking for a new county to set down roots, have actually gone elsewhere because of the condition of the grade school. That is such a shame, in MY opinion.

NOW, for the irritating part of this morning's experience. I was driving down the east -west road, West "H" Street, where the Wichita County Schools' bus barn is located. I was driving about 25 mph which is not above the posted speed limit of 30 mph in that area. However, when I reached N. Wyoming Street, (the street between the Junior High and Christ Covenant Church), I was practically hit by a vehicle coming down that street. The driver is a student at the high school. Though I really like the boy's parents, uncles, aunts, etc., none of them escaped genes that FORCE them do drive way above the speed limit!!! (Maybe if speeding tickets were issued to a few of them, they'd manage to put a little less weight on their gas pedals when they are driving!) I am going to guess that he was driving at a speed between 45 and 50 mph!!!!!!!!! Way too fast ESPECIALLY in a school zone!!! As soon as he saw me, he had to screech his brakes and his vehicle actually slid sideways! I proceeded down the street. He got behind me. Maybe I shouldn't have, but I slowed down to 10 mph until I came to the Handicapped parking place where I parked. (Yes, I have a lifetime plackard.) That forced him to follow me at that speed.

After I left the high school, I had to get to work at the Seaboard Mill. When I returned home, I made phone calls to the School Board Office and the Sheriff's Office to make complaints about this young man. Next year, it is planned that ALL students will be going to school at either the high school or the dome schools just across the street. I just WILL NOT tolerate these idiots who put our children's lives into peril!!!

And, honestly, I cannot ever remember being in such a toot to get to school!!! LOL!

VLE-B

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Can you help me, please?

Do you remember the first day back to school after Christmas Vacation? Remember how people got up and proudly displayed their Christmas presents that Santa Claus had given to them for being such good kids? Were you one of those lucky kids? I was. My sisters were. But, every year, many children are not visited by Santa Claus. Its not necessarily because they weren't good kids. Oftimes, they were the best kids in town. Then, why, didn't the big red jolly man stop by?

Many times it's because the parents' money didn't reach far enough. Sometimes, the parents have addictions with drugs, alcohol, etc. Too many times, the parents are simply just too selfish to see to it that their children receive gifts.

In 1989, God guided us to become foster parents for the State of Kansas. He actually led an SRS social worker to knock on our door to see if we would be interested. Stan and I never saw it coming. We had been praying for babies for several years but so far, none had been delivered at our house. I told the social worker "no". Stan told her "yes". She asked me why I was not interested. I told her that it was because I couldn't handle the pain of when the kids went back into their homes. (Guess I'm just too selfish, huh?) She then told me that she had a pair of brothers who would ultimately be going up for adoption. She wanted us to adopt them.

To make a long story short, we agreed to become the foster parents. I'm very happy that we did! And, yes, we adopted one of the boys! After that, many more boys and girls moved in and out of our home until we decided not to renew our license in 1995 when my father was dying.

One thing that most of those kids had in common, was the fact that Santa Claus usually made no stops at their houses on Christmas Eve. That is something that makes me bawl whenever I think about it.

Today, our countrymen are enduring the toughest of financial times in decades. For many more children than normal, no Christmas gifts will appear under the family Christmas tree. For many families, no hardy meal will be available to celebrate our saviour's birth.

No, I cannot save Christmas for everyone but I can do my part to help in every way to help as many people as possible but I am going to need some help. Are you able and willing? I'm not necessarily asking for money donations. If you happen to have clean toys in good repair, that would be great! Stuffed animals and dollies are always needed. Not long ago, I was watching OPRAH while she was interviewing Barbra Streisand. As it turns out, they were both from very poor families. Oprah, confessed that for years, her "baby" was actually a water bottle wrapped with a baby blanket. Barbra said that she didn't even have a water bottle. Fortunately, they have worked hard and have become very successful. Now, they are making a difference for many people who have had it rough.

If you are willing to help me with this in any way, please leave your comment after this post or send me an email at slblaus@gmail.com. Maybe you're not in a position where you can donate money or items, if that is the case and your family needs some help this Christmas season, PLEASE let me know!!! If you happen to know of people who could benefit from a helping hand, please give me that information also. I will need to know the following information if possible:

1. the name of the family
2. their address if you know it
3. how many kids they have
4. an approximate age for each one

Christmas is for giving.

VLE-B

Monday, November 16, 2009

Peter Dye Dolan

Peter was born on April 27th, 1942 and died on Saturday, November 14th, 2009 at his home in Leoti. He was 67-years-old. He was born in Rutland, Vermont and graduated from Bryant College in Providence, Rhode Island. He was a former furniture store employee and a short order cook. He was a Leoti resident since 2000.

He is survived by a sister, Sister Patricia Dolan, of Rutland, VT. and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers.

Cremation has taken place and inurnment will be in Rutledge, VT.

Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.

On a personal note, people who knew Pete really enjoyed him. Alot of people knew him from the VFW where he was a great chef. He was forced into retirement because of severe diabetes which resulted in the amputation of his legs. He will be missed.

VLE-B

When to seek medical care.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) just published a pamphlet on what to look for, what to do when you think that you or someone you love might have Seasonal or H1N1 Flu.

Here are the symptoms that require IMMEDIATE medical attention:

For children:

*Fast breathing or troubled breathing.
*Bluish or gray skin color (CALL 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY!!!)
*Not drinking enough fluids.
*Severe or persistent vomiting
*Not waking up or not interacting with others.
*Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held.
*Flu-like symptoms inprove but then return with fever and worse cough.

For adults:

*Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
*Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen.
*Sudden dizziness.
*Confusion.
*Severe or persistent vomiting.
*Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough.

General Advice if you think that you have the flu:

**If you are sick with the flu, you may be ill for a week or even longer. PLEASE STAY HOME UNLESS YOU NEED URGENT MEDICAL CARE OR OTHER NECESSITIES, so you can get well and prevent others from getting ill.

**Drink plenty of fluids and rest as much as possible.

**Avoid travel.

**Do NOT go to work or school until at least 24 hours AFTER your fever is completely gone. Your fever should be gone WITHOUT the use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin).

**If you leave your house to see medical care, WEAR A FACEMASK!!! Clinics and hospitals around here provide them for people with flu symptoms at entrances into the buildings.

**Wash your hands frequently with WARM not cold water or use a hand sanitizer.

**Cover your coughs and sneezes with a virus-proof tissue or the sleeve of your elbow.


Who is at increased risk for flu complications?

***Children younger than 5-years-old--particularly children younger than two-years-old, for whom the risk of severe flu complications from seasonal flu is highest.

***Adults 65-years-old or older.

***Pregnant women.

***People with chronic diseases of the lung (including asthma), heart (except hypertension), kidney, liver, blood (including sickle cell disease), brain or nervous system, muscles (particularly those that cause difficulty with swallowing), or metabolism (including diabetes mellitus);

***People with weakened immune systems, due to medications or HIV;

***Persons younger that 19-years-of-age who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy because of an increased risk for Reye syndrome.


What if I think that I have the flu? Can I get tested and treatment for H1N1 influenza or seasonal flu?

Testing and treatment is NOT needed or recommended for most children and adults who get the flu. Antiviral medication is NOT currently recommended EXCEPT for people with the flu who are at higher risk for complications or have severe illness.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT H1N1 FLU, CONTACT KDHE:

*1-877-427-7317 (toll-free)
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time
Monday -Friday.

** h1n1fluinfo@kdheks.gov

*** www.kdheks.gov

Since we should all be striving to care for each other, it may not be a bad idea to pass this information on to your loved ones who may be able to benefit from this.

In health.

VLE-B

H1N1

We spoke with our family doctor the weekend before last. He told us that he had seen a considerable amount of H1N1, Swine Flu, come through the clinic and hospital. He had noticed that as soon as the warm temperatures returned to this area, that the new cases drastically dropped to zero. Of course, that is great news! However, he expected to see this virus return as soon as cold temperatures returned.

We went to Garden City on Saturday. When we went to Target, I was so very happy to see that a box of anti-bacterial wipes that destroy H1N1, had been left for customers to cleanse the shopping carts' handles, etc! A large bottle of anti-bacterial gel was there also to cleanse your hands. Our family took advantage of both cleansers and we also saw that almost everyone else who took a cart did the same thing. Later, we went to Wal-Mart. We did not find the same luxury there. So, if you're interested, look through the cleansers. Find one that kills H1N1, buy it and carry it with you for when you go to a location that does not offer them. At least you will be prepared to fight!

Our son and his wife came down with some virus late last week. Our daughters became ill again yesterday. Hopefully, they will return to normal very soon. At this time, I do NOT think that it is H1N1-related!!!

As always, thank you for taking time out of your busy schedules to visit my blog!!!

VLE-B

Update on our storm.

It was a beautiful snowy day yesterday! The snow was very heavy at times but tapered off drastically during the late afternoon. Wind blew so there was some drifting involved but nothing major as far as I am aware. I would stagger a guess that we probably ended up with around 6 inches here. It is so very wet which is always so welcome!

School has not been cancelled but buses are only running on mud routes. Stan told me that the highways are in excellent condition. He took his first load to Grant County, Ulysses. Down there, it looks like they had no snow at all. We heard from my uncle and aunt in Stanton County, Johnson, yesterday. They, too, had some nice wet snow.

Fortunately, the warm weather that we had for the past couple of weeks provided the perfect opportunity for local farmers to complete Fall Harvest. I have heard from some who finished theirs. Hopefully, all of them have now.

At 7:30, it is just 28 degrees outside. I am concerned that H1N1 WILL ONCE AGAIN REAR IT'S UGLY HEAD! The weekend before last, we visited with a local doctor. He told us that he had seen a considerable amount of H1N1 before the warm area arrived. Once it warmed up here, the cases plumetted to zero. He expected the flu to return as soon as cold air returned here. So, you better return to taking your precautions again. Defense is so very important with this virus.

Happy Monday!!!

VLE-B

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Homemade Noodles...

Our family LOVES egg noodles, especially those made from scratch. We decided that a hardy bunch of beef and noodles would really hit the spot tonight. Normally, I dump the ingredients into my bread machine which then does the hard part--the kneading. Try as I might, I could not find my regular recipe so I decided to scour our Graham Family Cookbook that was published for the family several years ago. You talk about tasty recipes. They're the absolute best!!!

Daddy's mother, Helen Graham-Elder, was an out-of-this-world cook. Unfortunately, only three or four of her dozens of grandchildren ever got to meet her. She passed away when Daddy was only 6-years-old.

I found her actual recipe for noodles today which turns out to be her 118th birthday!!! They are just the best ever! I just have to share it with all of you! The holidays are rapidly approaching. Maybe you'd be interested in serving them to your family and friends!

Homemade Noodles

3 eggs
3 HALF EGG SHELLS of cream
1/4 cup milk
1 tablespoon of salt (optional)
Enough flour added until the dough is VERY stiff.

(As I said, I let our breadmachine do the kneading for me!) You'll have to use your hands if you do not access to one.

After your dough is well-stiffened, roll it out on a floured surface and use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut into noodles. As far as I am concerned, I say the thicker, the better! Do it as thick or as thin as you like. Drop individually into BOILING broth or stew. Cook until tender.

For our family of four, I doubled the recipe. If you happened to make too much dough, slice the noodles and allow them to dry. After they are dried, place in freezer bags and freeze until a later date.

Happy eating!!!

VLE-B

Wanted...

A gentleman is in need of some extra funds right now. He would be thrilled if any of you would happen to have a used snowblade that could be attached to a riding lawnmower such as a John Deere. He could then clean driveways, etc. One more thing...it needs a price tag with a low price attached to it. LOL!!!

To protect his pride, could you please email me at slblaus@gmail.com or call me at the following numbers: 620-375-4584 or 376-8922.

Someone may just happen to have one of these laying around just collecting dust. As the old saying goes, "One man's trash is another man's treasure."

Thank you very much!!!

VLE-B

A police dog in Leoti???

Yes, there is but he is not an actual employee. LOL!!!

Recently, a pick-up was being vandalized in northeastern Leoti. The police were called. The officer on duty arrived quickly. As soon as the vandal saw the police, he took off across town on foot. A neighbor's dog noticed the running man and chased him down. He literally, dropped the man on the ground. The police officer had to have the pet-owner call the dog off of the criminal. The vandal was then arrested and carried off to jail.

Pretty kool, huh?!!

VLE-B

Tough Times

Unless you're hiding under a rock somewhere, you've already heard about our national financial problems that are also wreaking problems throughout the rest of the world. Here in Western Kansas, we haven't seen too many major problems dealing with this crisis until just lately. Before then, it seemed to mainly affect the Western and Eastern United States. Now, it is working it's way into the middle.

I spoke to a manager of a business in Garden City yesterday. She runs a kind of business that almost everyone in the world patronizes every month or two. During the past few months, she and her co-workers have noticed a decrease in business. At first, it was a slight decrease but over time, it has increased by leaps and bounds. Two weeks ago, the manager was informed that she must lower her employees' hours that week. The following week, she was told to lower their hours even more.

The business is open 7 days per week and is normally open from 9:00 to 9:00 each day. Now, it is closing at 6:00 on Sundays. The manager doesn't know how long she and her employees are going to be able to hang on with these reduced hours. There is also a good possibility that more hours will be cut from their schedules.

I asked her why their business has decreased so greatly. She informed that some major employers in the area have been forced to drop full-time plus employees down to a part-time basis because of financial issues. Therefore, when a person has less money in their paychecks, they have to find as many ways as possible to cut daily costs in their lives. She gave me an example, her former boy-friend worked in one of those businesses. Before the recession, he was working a minimum of 70 hours during a 7-day-period. Now, he is reduced to less than 32 per week. What a major cut in the paycheck!!! The employer still needs just as much work done as normal so in order to save themselves, they have actually hired additional employees. Therefore, they have been able to cut out the overtime pay.

In a way, that is a double-edged sword. More people were hired including people who were actually brought to Finney County for these jobs. Rent prices went up because of insufficient housing for everyone. Great for landlords--not great for renters who were finding it difficult to keep up with the lower rent money. Now, Finney County is finding that a significant amount of people are having to move away so that they can find jobs that will hopefully produce better income.

It doesn't appear that our nation will bounce back any time soon. It was recently announced that 10%, which translates to one out of every 10 people, are unemployed and don't want to be.

Word of advice, if you have a job, no matter how much you may not like it, you better hang on to it with everything that you can. There's a line of people out there who would gladly change places with you!

VLE-B

Boy Scout Fundraiser

Right now, the Boy Scouts of America is having their annual Popcorn Drive. If you're interested in purchasing their popcorn that comes in all forms from popcorn that needs to be popped in a popcorn popper, to microwaveable popcorn, to pre-popped popcorn with fudges and other candy and nuts, please contact a local Boy Scout. If you don't know one, give Brice Mason a call. His phone number is 375-2133. The products will arrive the first week of December.

Thank you!!!

VLE-B

Scavenger Hunt Memory...

A year or so ago this month, my sister, Lori, and my brudder-in-law, Leif Christensen, were married. It was a wonderful moment in our family's life! Anyone who knows Leif, knows that we were so very fortunate to have caught him! He's a real keeper!!!

The evening before their wedding, we had a boy-girl scavengar hunt. It was so very KOOL!!! The boys' team consisted of Leif, my hubby, Stan, my other great brother-in-law, Rob Carson, my cousin, Dennis Elder, Mark Jones, Stan's brother, Ron, and our son, Adam. The girls' team was Lori, Lona Sue, our cousin, Susan Elder, Lori's friend, Paula, Rob's sister, Pam, Ron's wife, Pam, and myself.

We all met at Rob and Lona Sue's house where we seperated and went in to seperate vehicles. The girls had previously hidden certain items around Leoti. The boys had done the same for us. Each team was given the list of items that must be retrieved. For hours, the two teams spread all over town looking for their treasures. I don't remember who won but I do remember that it was GREAT fun!!! As a matter-of-fact, I'd be willing to do it all over again!!! I think that it is funner to do it after dark when it is spookier outside when you get out of your vehicle to look in certain areas.

Give it a try sometime! It's a REAL hoot!!!

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Pictureka!

My family and I have just discovered a terrific new game that anyone, 6-years-old or older, can play. However, I think that anyone with eyesight should be able to participate. Very minimal reading is required so as long as one reader is available, anyone should be able to participate. Two or more players are necesary. Parker Brothers is the manufacturer.

Our 7-year-old has never been this excited about a board game!

Each game is supplied with 9 reversible playing tiles, 1 dice, 1 color cube, and 3 decks of cards that show you the pictures that you are to look for on the tiles. A sand timer is also needed which is included in the game.

This is great entertainment for people of all ages and reading levels.

A nationally well-known store in Garden City is selling it for $15.00. Unlike some board games that literally take HOURS to completely play just one game, this one takes much less time to complete. We just keep playing it over and over again! I would describe it as being a Scavenger Hunt that people play while sitting down. It would be a great gift for any occassion!!!

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A major snowstorm hits Western Kansas.

My family and I awoke to a beautiful sight, at least in my daughters' and my opinion. LOL!!! Snow had already begun accumalating on the yards and streets of Leoti. It is beautiful!!! Much moisture is being pumped from the Gulf Of Mexico into the nation's Central Plains where a cold front from the North is waiting. The last that I knew, a blizzard warning has been issued for us. Yeah!!!

This snow is VERY moist! Already, a large pine tree in our front yard is bending under the weight of the snow. I haven't seen this since our majorly harsh Winter of a couple of years ago. That year, that same tree was bent practically in half for that Winter until Spring when the very deep snowdrifts began to melt. Right now, we have about 2 inches of snow on the ground and heavy snow continues to fall. Around a foot more of snow is expected through Tuesday. Already, various activities have been cancelled or postponed. Winds are beginning to blow.

I want to remind Leotians that Skyler and Brice Mason have recently purchased a snowblower. If you are interested in hiring them to clean your sidewalks and driveways, please give them a call at 375-2133.

Happy Winter!!!

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In very cold blood...

Today, November 15th, 2009, marks the 50th anniversary of the much-loved and wealthy citizens, the Herb Klutter family, who was brutally murdered in their home just to the south of Holcomb, Kansas. Since then, Truman Capote wrote his novel IN COLD BLOOD which detailed that violent day in American history. He started out by describing how the eventual murderers found each other and made their way to Holcomb so that they could put their plot of becoming wealthy themselves to work at the expense of the Klutters. The author also detailed the happenings of the following days that lead to the hangings of the two men who carried out the killings. Since then, two movies have been produced.

My mother was engaged to my father at that time. She rented a bedroom from a widow lady in Leoti. She still speaks of the horror that people lived through as the news of the needless tragedy spread throughout the country. A major manhunt was underway throughout the United States to find the 2 murderers and to bring them to justice. Needless to say, much fear was unleashed in the areas surrounding the Holcomb area. Even after the men were put to their deaths, the fear never fully disentegrated. Much innocence was forever lost.

There were people who lived in this area who dispiced the book and the movie because of the fact that Mr. Capote had added some drama in his writings that really had not happened. Later friends of his said that he had to do this in areas where the actual happenings at that time were unknown to anyone other than the people who were involved. Others were angered because books and movies were done which capitalized on the sufferings of these people, their friends and family that ultimately made alot of money for the author and other people who worked to bring the book and movies to reality.

A few months ago, a statue was unveiled in a Holcomb park to honor the Klutter Family. Nothing is mentioned about their horrific deaths. Instead, information about their tremendous offerings that they made to Finney County and Holcomb was shared with whomever takes the time to stop by the park.

Some area schools just recently studied the gruesome ordeal which happened right here.

If you are interested in learning more about these very sad events, you can google Holcomb's Herb Klutter Family or the novel, IN COLD BLOOD. Many public libraries throughout the U.S. have IN COLD BLOOD available for anyone who wants to read it.

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We survived!!!

Our daughter, Leighlyn, celebrated her even dozenth birthday on Friday, November 13th. I have absolutely NO idea where the time has gone...

As many of you know, Stan and I were married on May 2nd of 1981. After that, we suffered a miscarriage in 1983. We were devastated! Try as we did, God sent no children to us until 1990 when He sent us Adam, our first foster child, whom we ultimately adopted in 1993. By that time, Adam was already 13-years-old.

In February of 1997, we discovered that God was blessing us with our very own baby girl!!! The pregnancy drug on and on...Finally, Leighlyn was here!!! After seeing how quickly Adam had grown up, I feared that Leighlyn would grow too quickly also. My fears were correct. We went from Delivering her in Tribune to her first steps and words to preschool to ballet which she is still involved in to preschool to her first day of Kindergarten... You get the picture, I am quite sure. Time flys especially when you're having a great time!!!

To honor her, who is one of the two most special daughters of all time, we threw her a birthday party on Friday night at our house. Seventeen boys and girls were dropped by our house. Even though it was plenty cool enough, they insisted on playing outdoors. They played basketball and chase games. You talk about noise polution, the silence of our neighborhood was shattered with these screaming, giggling 6th graders who were having a blast!!! I loved it!!! Eventually, all of the boys were sent home and the girls remained for the slumber party.

The girls had a great time! They set up a SPA in our family room where a couple of girls applied make-up, a couple more girls showed how much talent they already possess in hairstyling. One girl painted fingernails. Two girls gave body massages. Everyone benefited from each and every "service" that was provided in the Blau Daughters' Spa.

While the boys were still here, we served hors duveurs which included a multitude of various cheeses, crackers, etc. They were followed by homemade Brownie Sheet Cake. I had forgotten how much food a pre-teen boy can put away! The girls held their own also! LOL!!! Originally, we had planned on serving spaghetti with all of the trimmings for dinner once the boys had left. Instead, the girls kept telling us that they were not interested in it until after the spa, etc. Eventually, no spaghetti was ever served. About 11:30 that night, the girls calmed down enough to request more cheese and crackers which we readily supplied to them!

Throughout the evening, we continued to turn our volume up on the living room TV as the girls went from one outburst of laughter to the next! It was GREAT!!!

Whenever you have seven girls spending the night together, you have to expect some drama along the way. For awhile, drama existed but not for long.

Abigayle is already 7-years-old. Before we know it, she will also be 12. It'll be fun too! She has already blessed us with so very much love and joy and laughter!!!

The first 12 years have been just wonderful! I am sure that the future promises even more joy...

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Peter Dolan--Leoti

A reader of my blog in Leoti notified me this morning that Mr. Peter Dolan passed away yesterday, November 14th. So far the only information that I have is that many of us remember him as the chef at Leoti's former VFW. Once I receive more information, I will post it.

Thank you!!!

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Eduardo Garcia-Trevizo--Leoti

My apologies on the tardiness of this obtuary! We were not at home yesterday.

Eduardo Trevizo was born on October 13, 1944 in Chihuahua, Mexico and passed away on November 13th, 2009, at his home in Leoti. He was 65. He was a farmer and had been a Wichita County resident since 1974.

He was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church of Leoti.

On December 19th, 1964, he married Manuella Macias in Chihuahua. She survives along with one son, Alonzo Trevizo of Denver, two daughters, Eugenia Trevizo of Chihuahua and Claudia Trevizo of Denver, eight brothers and sisters and ten grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 CST on Saturday, November 21st, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Marienthal. Burial will be in Mexico.

Memorials may be sent to the Eduardo G. Trevizo Memorial Fund in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home of Leoti.

Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.

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Friday, November 13, 2009

A Very HARDY "Thank You"!!!

We, the Blaus, want to extend a VERY hardy "thank you" to Dr. Doug and Penny Hillbig of Lakin and to Melodee Hoffer and Cyndy Fetty who have come together to form a foundation to help pet-owners with the costs of spaying/neutering, vaccines, worming meds, etc. Melodee and Cyndy have set up various fundraisers to raise the necessary money to aid in these costs. Our family took one dog in yesterday to be neutered, another dog of ours was spayed, both dogs plus our Chiggar Man and our two cats had rabies shots. The neutering cost was $20.00, the spaying was $25.00, the five rabies vaccinations were $75.00. What an amazing savings that was for us!

The two-day clinic allowed 30 plus dogs and cats to be neutered. Pet-owners who were responsible for having their pets fixed have not only bettered their own pets' health, but they have also done their part in lowering the amount of unwanted and unloved dogs and cats in our population. Today, there is a large amount of dogs and cats out there who have no one to care for them, no shelter and no fresh food and water on an everyday basis. These dogs and cats don't have much to look forward to in their lives.

As I understand it, the fundraisers will continue and the clinics will resume every 2 months at the Vet Clinic on the east side of Leoti. Originally, this was set up for Wichita County pets only. It has been changed. EVERYONE is welcome to bring their animals in regardless of where they live. Most of these pets had appointments for their healthcare at this clinic, however, some people chose to bring their pets in on a walk-in basis. None were turned away. It is a VERY good idea to have appointments set-up in the future though.

Personally, we had never had the occassion to meet Dr. Hilbig and his wife, Penny, until this clinic. What fine people they are!!! Not only do people really like and respect them but the pets like them too! Both of the Hilbigs treated each and every animal with great kindness and the utmost expert care. As for our family, we now have a new vet team for our pets who are much more like family to us than pets! We STRONGLY recommend them to anyone who has animals!!!

Dr. Hilbig has his own clinic in Lakin, Ks. which is around 45 miles south of Leoti. You can reach his clinic at 620-355-7807. You won't be sorry that you made your call to them!

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Have you noticed???

Have you seen these HUGE truckloads headed down the highways around here? They're the ones that are just barely moving, they have pilot cars in front and behind them along with EXTRA trucks behind them! The trucks that follow them are actually CONNECTED to the truck in front of them. Why, you ask? The load is so very heavy that the truck behind must push the truck to get it to move. The two truckdrivers have to shift in unison all the way down the highway or else the load comes to a dead stop! The cargo is completely covered with plywood so that whatever is inside is kept confidential. They are headed to Houston, Texas from Canada. One lady told me today that she hopes that the State Police are aware of what hides behind the plywood skin. These days, it is understandable why people would fear these loads. My sister, Lori, told me that she has wondered if it is equipment that NASA may have had built. Chances are that we will probably never know.

Even the people who are transporting these massive loads have no idea what they are moving down the highways. All that they know is that whoever owns these products gives them a very detailed list of where they are to travel, when and where to stop for the night, when to leave the following day and then, under no circumstances, are they to travel more than 200 miles per day. They usually just move down Highway 83 which is the highway that goes north-south from Scott City which is 24 miles straight east of Leoti. Then, why are we seeing them in Leoti? It is because Garden City is under major road construction just north of town. A bi-pass is being put in. In order to by-pass all of that, the trucks turn west at Scott City, turn south at Leoti where they continue until they make the turn eastward which will take them to Sublette. At that point, they turn south and then continue going southward until they reach Houston.

Today, I spoke with some people who have actually met these trucks face to face. The ongoing traffic must pull off of the highway so that the truck has enough room to move on down the road. One couple told me that their left side of their personal vehicle was on the white line of the highway. If you ever find yourself behind one of these rigs, be prepared for a long ride. These trucks are not capable of driving over 40 mph because of the weight and the width of the trucks.

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Thursday, November 12, 2009

Tonja L. Wheeler--Scott City

Tonja L. Wheeler was born on August 2nd, 1959 to Hampton (Hank) and Lynda Roush Burnett. She passed away on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 at the age of 50 at Via Christy Regional Medical Center -St. Francis in Wichita. She was a waitress at Peking Garden Chinese Restaurant in Scott City.

On July 19, 1993 she married Mike Wheeler at Fort Riley, Kansas. He survives along with 1 daughter, Shantel N. Burnett-Wheeler, 3 sons, Joshua Burnett of Scott City, Kori Andrew Wheeler of Ohio, Joseph D. Wheeler of Afghanistan, her mother of Scott City, her father-in-law and mother-in-law of Fairborn, Ohio, two brothers, Woodrow and Michael, both of Garden City and two sisters, Ramona Hoffner and Tracey Cordova, both of Holyoke, Colorado.

Funeral services will be at the First Christian Church in Scott City on Saturday, November 14th. Interment will be at Scott County Cemetary.

Instead of sending flowers, the family suggests that memorials be given to the Tonja L. Wheeler Memorial Fund in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home of Scott City.

Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.

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Volunteers Needed.

Cyndy Fetty and Melodee Hoffer are asking for volunteers to help them with business that needs to be done in their organization that promotes health and lower-cost spayings and neuterings. If you're interested in helping, please call Cyndy at 620-214-3154. You do NOT need to be a resident of Wichita County.

1. Adequate transportation to deliver dogs to Goodland where they can find new homes.

2. Spanish translators.

3. People who are willing to donate baked goods, sewed items, etc. for fundraisers.

This is a VERY worthwhile organization!!!

Don't forget the fundraiser this coming Sunday afternoon!!! I wrote about it's details in an earlier post that you can go back and read now.

VLE-B

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Domingo Alvarado-Contreras

Domingo was born on October 28, 1976 and passed away on November 10th, 2009 as a result of injuries sustained in an auto accident in rural Greeley County. A dairyman, he had been a Leoti resident since 2007.

Survivors include his wife, Beatriz Lopez, a son, Leonardo Alvarado, 2 daughters, Jennifer Lopez, and Carolina Alvarado, his father, Ramon Alvarado in Nayarit, Mexico and several brothers and sisters.

Memorial services and inurnment will be at a later date in Mexico.

Memorials may be sent to the Domingo Alvarado-Contreras Memorial Fund in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home of Leoti.

Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.

Devastating and Deadly Accident

In a town the size of Leoti, it often seems as if we know everybody. However, today, I now realize that just is not the case. One of our our neighbors who just lived across the street from us was killed last night and I don't even know his name!!!

From what I understand now, he worked in Greeley County and was on his way home last evening. He pulled to the side of the highway and got out of the vehicle. A semitruck was right behind him. Somehow, the truck and the man collided. Of course, the man didn't stand much of a chance.

I would guess that he was around 30-years-old. During the Summer, we noticed that practically every Friday and Saturday evening, a BUNCH of men congregated at his house to do nothing more than just enjoy each other's company and to do ALOT of laughing. They had so much fun with each other. Late in the Summer he found a lady friend and her child who seemed to bring even more joy into his life. It was so refreshing to watch them in action! They held hands alot, visited and laughed very often. Stan and I had spoken on how happy we were that they appeared to be in so much love. It was very special! Once the lady was in his life, we saw less and less of his bachelor parties.

I will keep you updated on his obituary when it is available. If you wish to donate food etc., they live in a small blue house just to the northwest of us. Their physical address would be 706 North Second Street. Judging by the amount of vehicles at their house, I am sure that they would appreciate any food, etc that you might want to offer.

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FREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Loretta Riddiough of Leoti is giving away all of her cats and kittens to good homes. They come in all sizes. These cats would make great indoor/outdoor pets. On a personal note, I have always been so impressed with how quickly and easily cats and kittens can be litter-trained. It is just about as easy as tripping over a grain of sand on a smooth sidewalk!

I've heard from a bunch of people this year that mice are moving in to houses by the hoards. Having your very own cat or cats should help to keep your house free from those nasty disease-carrying varments.

Please call Loretta at 375-4923 if you are interested. Also, please let other know about this offer.

VLE-B

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

It could happen HERE...

Today, I was told a story of a dreadful accident that happened in a bordering state. It could happen here just as easily as it did there.

Several years ago, the boys in Kansas government decided that there was not "enough" traffic in and out of Leoti to require an ordinary stoplight. Instead, our main intersection in town was reduced to having a very simple flashing red light. Some people probably appreciate it but others like me would prefer to have our old light back. I don't know how many times, I have seen people drive through the light without even attempting to stop. Lately, it seems to me that there are more and more near hits at that intersection primarily because people are paying less and less attention. Then, after we get used to just stopping at the light, looking both ways and then continuing down the highway, we unthininkly, do the same thing in other towns where an ordinary light is in place. In my opinion, these flashing stop lights cause alot of accidents.

A young man was driving with his younger brother in a small town like Leoti. Their town had just replaced their blinking light with a regular stoplight. The older brother had gotten accustomed to just stopping and then proceeding into traffic after stopping. The vehicle coming from the other direction had a green light. Unfortunately, the vehicle with the two brothers was struck by the other vehicle. The younger brother was killed.

I fear that this is not an isolated incident. A similar accident could just as easily happen here. So many times, we become creatures of habit and stop paying less attention than we should. I say BRING BACK AN ORDINARY EVERYDAY STOPLIGHT! I think that we may have to spend a little bit more time just sitting at the light but we'd probably be alot safer. What's your opinion on the matter???

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Western Kansas and Eastern Colorado Drivers

Drivers need to be especially careful as they travel out here this time of year. Multiple auto accidents involving deer have been reported in the Wichita County area recently. This is the "romantic" time of the year for deer. Their heads aren't exactly tuned in to automobile traffic right now. In addition to their breeding, Fall Harvest continues which drives deer out of fields and onto roads and highways. People have been mentioning that herds of deer are congregating in the middle of roads and highways and are slow to get off of the road so BE PREPARED!!! Now, this next weekend, Pheasant Season begins. The rifle fire will scare deer also.

Don't forget to turn your headlights ON BEFORE DARK so that you are more intuned in what's going on around you!

It's always better to be SAFE THAN SORRY.

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Community Thanksgiving Dinner

I think that this will be the third annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner at Christ Covenant Church in Leoti. If you and/or your family would like to attend, please call the church at 375-4228 to let them know how many from your family will plan on being at the dinner. There is NO cost for this. The dinner will be held at noon on Thursday, November 26th.

If you are interested in donating food, etc for this, please let the CCC know. All donations would be very welcome!

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Bacon! Mmm, mmm GOOD!!!

Have you ever eaten any of Seaboard's Bacon? Well, if you have eaten any of WENDY'S sandwiches with bacon lately, you HAVE! They are now using extra thick slices of Applewood smoked bacon. It is a product of Seaboard's and is sooo very good! Seaboard has pig farms here in Wichita County.

Just thought that you might enjoy that little tid-bit or should I say, BACON BIT???

Dennis and Susan Elder--11/09/09

It is always so nice to hear from Susan! No matter what they are or have gone through, she is ALWAYS so full of thankfulness, faith and inspiration! It is so very refreshing!

Dennis and Susan are thankful that Fall Harvest is moving right along! They're hoping that everyone's grain is safe in the bins soon. They are sooo thankful for everyone who helped them with their farming this year since they were unable to be here to do it themselves!

Dennis is doing pretty well now. Last week was not-so-good as he had worse pain than was anticipated at this time. His spirits are up and he is now fishing with friends again! He is eating pretty well also. Now that the pain is better, they will start walking more than before.

They so enjoy and love your updates through phone calls, letters, cards, email, etc.! Keep them going to them!

They enjoyed getting to watch a family of wild pigs that went to visit their home last week! One evening after that, one of the pigs came back to their house to get a drink of water. After their dogs were sprayed with goody-goody skunk juice as Daddy called it, they are now catching the skunks that come to their house with tuna. Then, a friends takes them elsewhere and lets them go.

Dennis and Susan wish to pass their thankfulness on to veterans of now and then who have or are giving their all to keep us safe!

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Monday, November 9, 2009

PLEASE help me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Our daughter, Leighlyn's, 12th birthday is Friday, November 13th. To celebrate, she is going to have a BIG birthday party that evening. She is planning on inviting all of her classmates, etc. Something that she has ALWAYS wanted to do whenever her birthday landed on a Friday, was to have everyone watch the movie, FRIDAY THE THIRTEENTH. We have a good-sized movie collection but we don't get into horror movies so that movie is not in our house.

If you happen to have the DVD or VCR tape, could you PLEASE let us borrow it for that night??? We'd really, REALLY appreciate it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You can leave your comment here or call me at the following phone numbers:

Home: 620-375-4584
Cellphone: 620-376-8922

slblaus@gmail.com

Thank you so much!!!

VLE-B

Leoti Ladies' Christmas Tea

CCW, Christ Covenant Women, has invited the women from Leoti's churches to join them at a Christmas Tea honoring the birth of our Savior, Jesus. It will be held on Sunday, December 6th, 2009, at 4:00 in the afternoon for a special time together. Refreshments will be served.

Jo Hardy will be featured with the playing of her harp.

It is requested that you contact the following people by Thursday, November 19th, if you plan to attend this special time.

Phyllis Glanville: 375-2638
Diane Dirks: 375-4462

Please bring a friend!

Don't forget to mark this on your calendar!!!

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CHRISTMAS PROGRAM

The children at the Christ Covenant Church will be spotlighted at this year's Christmas Program on Wednesday, December 16th, at the church. I will announce the time at a later date when it is available. This is open to anyone who wishes to attend!

Jeanette Price and Angie Everest will be conducting a dance number at the program! Several of the involved girls have been ballet students of Jeanette for several years. A couple of skits will also be done.

Afterwards, refreshments will be offered.

Please put this on your calendar so that you do not miss a great evening of Christian fellowship!!!

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Sunday, November 8, 2009

YOUR help is needed!

The people at C.A.C.P., Community Animal Care Programs, are going to be holding various sales, etc. throughout the community in order to raise money for such things as dog/cat spaying/neutering. You can help by purchasing items from these sales. You can also help by donating items to be sold such as cinnamon rolls, cakes, pies, etc. If you are willing and/or want to know when and where these sales will be held, please call Melodee at 620-872-1430 or Cyndy at 620-214-3154.

The people at C.A.C.P. have NO association with Silent Angels or any other local animal group.

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For Sale

My brudder-in-law and sister, Leif and Lori Christensen, are selling a matching sofa and loveseat. They are made out of a light-colored leather. It is less than 18-months-old. They do NOT include a hide-a-way bed. If you are interested in making an offer on the set, please call them at 620-375-5674 or 620-874-0715.

They also have a 3-piece set of tables for sale that are less than 6-months-old. They're BEE-U-TI-FUL!!! Each top is constructed out of glass. They're abit difficult to describe. They would work well in traditional and contemporary homes.

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EVERYONE IS INVITED!!!

Next Sunday, November 15, 2009, a come and go Holiday Party will be held at Leoti's Prairie Ridge Essentials, (formerly, J and K Decor). It is located on Main Street. The open house will run from 3-6:00 CST.

Tammy Geyer will be on hand to show her line of Jolica which is a company that specializes in great handbags at very reasonable prices. For more information, please call Tammy at 620-214-3259.

Mindy Fetty will be on hand demostrating her Icing on the Cake cakes. These custom cakes resemble those on Food Network's ACE OF CAKES. Call her at 575-973-2297.

Bring as many friends with you as you want!

This open house is sponsored by Community Animal Care Program. It has NO affiliation to Silent Angels or any other animal group. The C.A.C.P. is providing low cost spay/neuter clinics and other animal care. Their first clinic will be November 13th and 14th in Leoti. Call Lori Elder-Christensen at 620-375-5674 to schedule an appointment for your dog or cat.

Melodee Hoffer: 620-872-1430 Cyndy Brooks-Fetty: 620-214-3154

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Steven Minor

We heard in church this morning, November 8th, that former Leotian, Steven Minor, had passed away last week. His surviving sisters include Janice Kreutzer, Maureen and Brenda. People told me that they think that he was about 60-years-old.

If I receive more information, I will pass it on to you.

VLE-B

Saturday, November 7, 2009

S. Lucille Hallmark

S. Lucille Hallmark was born on November 3rd of 1912 and passed away on November 5th of 2009 at the age of 97 in Garden City. She was the oldest living member of Garden City's Nazarene Church.

She married Rolland Raymond Jobe in February of 1928. He died later that year. On September 17th, 1932, she married Johnnie Taylor Hallmark in Lakin. He died on May 7th, 1980.

Survivors include her two daughters, Dorothy I. Unruh of Stafford, Ks. and Betty Mast of Scott City, 10 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren and 44 great-great grandchildren.

Funeral servies will be held on Monday, November 9th at the Church of the Nazarine in Garden City.

Memorials are suggested to the Church in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.

Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.

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Want to Buy

Some good friends of ours are setting up a recreation room for their children here in Leoti. They are interested in purchasing a used pool table and some furniture. Nothing has to be in great shape. They're perfectly willing to clean, fix, etc. They own a pick-up and are willing to come to your house, etc. and pick any of these items up.

If you have something that you are willing to part with, please call me at 620-375-4584 or send me an email at slblaus@gmail.com.

They would greatly appreciate anything! Since this will primarily be used by teenagers, any color and any style will be just perfect! LOL!!!

Thank you!!!

VLE-B

Correction from earlier entry in my blog

A dear lady called me today. We had a wonderful and refreshing visit! While we talked, she mentioned various things that I had posted in my blog. She mentioned my blog: Someone who doesn't even live here is fighting for us... In that, I discussed a doctor calling Kansas State Health Department about Seasonal and H1N1 vaccines and how soon we should expect them in Wichita County. Until today, I did not realize that I had reported that these calls were made from a doctor in LEOTI who reads my blog. Guess I better start doing a better job with my proof-reading... The doctor lives in ITALY.

Oh, boy... Sometimes the elevator doesn't reach the top story in my body! LOL!!!

VLE-B

Friday, November 6, 2009

Pheasant Season

Kansas' annual Pheasant Season opens on Saturday, November 14th. That brings MANY hunters to this area whom live all around the world.

I am taking this time to let those people know of places where they can stay while they are in Wichita County.

Hi Plains Motel 620-375-4438

Pleasant Valley Bed and Breakfast 620-375-2874
(They are full for opening weekend but you can still make reservations for later.)

Vic and Deb Case 620-375-4561

Kathy Bangerter amd Leta Berning's B and B 620-375-2651 or 375-2200

Happy Hunting!!!

VLE-B

Jo Hardy

A couple of years ago, Wichita County was blessed with the arrival of Dr. James and Jo Hardy. James is the amazing Wichita County School District's superintendant. Jo is a registered nurse at our hospital. Both of them are outstanding people!

Jo has an unusual talent in Western Kansas. She plays the HARP and is darned good at it too!

This Sunday, November 8th, she will be giving a concert at 6:00 CST at Leoti's Assembly of God Church. It is located 1 block west of the courthouse. Anyone who is not otherwise busy should go and listen to her.

VLE-B

Wichita County Courthouse

I guess that many of us have always appreciated our courthouse here but I never realized just how spectacular it really is until I saw a picture of it in the background of other Main Street businesses. It is really a stand-out! I've been told that many years ago, many a person loaded up into the family truckster just to drive to Leoti and take a look at the newly built "castle'. I see why now.

Recently, two sitting areas have emerged on the courthouse grounds. The first one includes a bench with wagon wheel ends that Don and Carolyn Waldren built just for the building. It is definitely much more of a work of art than most benches. This year, another bench was set up in honor of Karla Ridder, who was much-loved by her co-workers at the courthouse and Wichita Countians as a whole. Bushes and other flowers have been planted around the benches.

During the past month, contractors have replaced the old windows with state of the art new windows. The old ones leaked alot of air and dust. The new ones will be much easier to clean also.

It would be nice to have an elevator as Scott County has added to their courthouse. Since the project would be very costly, a chair has been added that will take people from floor to floor if they cannot handle the steps.

Sometime, if you're in town, you ought to take a trip to the courthouse just to be marvelled by the architecture, etc. New buildings just don't have the architectural elements and history of our courthouse.

VLE-B

Update on Route 96 Cafe--November 6th

New Winter hours: Open 7 days a week from 6-2:00 and 5-8:00 CST.

We have now eaten there three times. The food is great! If you like thick hamburgers, you'll LOVE theirs! They're very thick. All sandwiches include toasted buns which we really enjoy. You just cannot pass on their chicken fries! They are out of this world!!!

Tonight, Friday's, special will be mountain oysters. Tomorrow's will be prime rib. I've also been told that the special on every Sunday evening is anything on the breakfast menu.

We've been really impressed with how many local people whom you never saw at other restaurants in town, are eating at 96. In addition to Leotians, ALOT of Scott City people travel 24 miles just to eat there! (The manager and many of the other employees formerly worked at Scott City's Chapparell Inn.) Their fans followed them here.

Karen Walk, the curator of Leoti's Great Plains Museum, went through her many photos and gave a select amount to the owners of the cafe. They, then, had them blown up. They are now framed and hanging on the walls. If you enjoy local history as I do, you'll be in for quite a treat!!! Until last night, I never knew that Coronado had it's own newspaper, did you? Someone actually brought in a copy of it which is now framed. The largest photo is of Main Street Leoti in 1926. OMG! It shows the old buildings (Some, I think are still standing but with new faces.) The streets were in terrible shape with very dirty streets. Large trees stood between where Three Way's Dry Goods used to be and Highway 96. Towering over everything was our majestic Wichita County Courthouse. It was sooo kool to see all of the old vehicles parked in front of the various buildings. In lots of ways, they were more handsome than any of our modern cars and pick-ups. Part of their statliness was their black color. Can you imagine how dirty they looked after travelling down those dirt streets and roads? I've never quite understood why light colored vehicles show less dirt than the dark-colored ones. LOL!

For Elder relatives who read my blog, did you know that our grandparents, Roy and Helen, owned the FIRST car in Wichita County? They did! I've been told of how the family had used that car to travel to our great-grandparents' home for Thanksgiving. Before they got home, it began to snow. Our grandfather told the family that that would be the last time that they would be able to drive the car until Spring. He was right!

Part of the cafe is used only for reservations and spillovers when the rest of the cafe is full. It is so neat! A very old Sinclair Gas pump towers in the corner of the room. (I THINK that it may be the one that used to stand in front of the old Kagee Corner on 96.) Its lights perfect it's glory of yesteryear. In addition to it, pictures and old highway signs help to produce ambiance.

I greatly recommend our new cafe to everyone! Next weekend is the opening weekend of pheasant season. I am sure that they will be very busy then! We and the hunters are so very fortunate that Route 96 has now opened it's doors!

VLE-B

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Margaret E. Cauthon--Scott City

Margaret Cauthon, 83, passed away in Scott City on Tuesday, November 3, 2009. She was born on July 4, 1926 and married Gaylord "Gus" Cauthon on November 10th, 1952. She was a homemaker.

Survivors include her husband, Gus, of Scott City and two sons, Stuart L. and Sandy of Scott City and Steven R. and Mary Cauthon of Noblesville, Indiana, four grandchildren and numerous neices and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 on Friday, November 6th at the United Methodist Church in Scott City. Burial will be in Scott County Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Methodist Church or Parklane Nursing Home of Scott City through the Price and Sons Funeral Home in Scott City.

Visitation at the funeral home will be from 10-8:00 on Thursday and 9-10:30 Friday morning.

(Obituary courtesy of Price and Sons Funeral Home.)

VLE-B

Hmmm??????

The Bible calls debt a curse and children a blessing. But, in our culture, we apply for a debt and reject blessings. Something is wrong with this picture...

Doug Phillips
Vision Forum Ministries

Monday, November 2, 2009

Ex-Leotians Share Thrilling Honor

Many of us remember Lindall Cox, a much-loved and respected educator and coach in the Wichita County School District. Most of us also know Scott Bjurstrom who was born and raised in Wichita County. Both men are current teachers and Cross Country Coaches in Holcomb, Kansas.

This past Saturday, October 31st, they led their team to take First Place at Wamego's 3A State Tournament! To make things even better, this was their second time to do it! They won First place in 2008 and 2009!!! Their school has now taken First place for 3 times in this decade!

Scott's very proud parents are Becky Brakey and Wayne Bjurstrom, both of Leoti.

LADYBUG FLOWER SHOP

Just a reminder that Leoti is very fortunate to have an outstanding flower and gift shop here. Flowers and plants and other gifts are priced at very fair prices. They accept, cash, debit cards, checks, VISA AND MASTERCARD. They also deliver.

If you're interested in sending something from them, please call 620-375-2172.

Thank you!

VLE-B

My obituaries

Just so that you know, most if not all, of my obituary information comes from Price and Sons Funeral Homes of Garden City, Scott City, Leoti and Tribune.

Thank you!

VLE-B

Mary Ann Beeson--Scott City

Mary Ann was born on February, 8th, 1938 and passed away on October 31st, 2009 at the age of 71. She passed away at Parkview nursing Home in Scott City.

Survivors include her sister, Betty Eisenhour, of Scott City. She is survived by one nephew, Brett and his wife, Katie, of Scott City, two nieces, Jill and husband, Lance Tucker and niece, Jeanette and Steve Price of Leoti. She also has 7 great nieces and nephews and 7 great-great nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 on Wednesday, November 4th, 2009 at The United Methodist Church in Scott City. Burial will be in Scott County Cemetary.

Friends may call from 10-8:00 on Tuesday at Price and Sons Funeral Home in Scott City.

Memorials may be sent to The First United Methodist Church or Silent Angels Animal Shelter of Leoti or Parklane Nursing Home of Scott City in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.

VLE-B

Robert (Bob) Leon Simon

Bob Simon passed away on Friday, October 30th, 2009, at the Wichita County Long Term Care Center in Leoti. He was born on November 30th, 1931. He was 77. He married his wife, Mary Louise (Muggs) Berning, on May 11th, 1954. She since passed away.

Bob is survived by his companion, Lodusky Tricks of Garden City, his son and wife, Ed and Jana (Dierks) Simon of Marienthal, Jean and Steve Wells, Diana and Todd Long, Connie and Darren McRae, all of Leoti. He also has 10 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Vigil services will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 02, 2009 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Marienthal. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 03, 2009 at St. Mary's in Marienthal. Burial will be in the St. Mary Cemetary in Marienthal, Ks.

Friends may call from 11:00 to 5:00 on November 02, 2009 at Price and Sons Funeral Home in Leoti.

Memorials may be given to the Parkinson Foundation, Finney County Senior Citizen Center or Wichita County Long Term Care Unit of Leoti. Please send these to the Price and Sons Funeral Home.

VLE-B

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Girls' Cross Country Team

The WCHS Girls' Cross County Team took third place Saturday at the State level. Page Wells, a freshman, took SECOND place individually!

Shad Mehl is their coach.

We're proud of you girls!!!

VLE-B

My mom's house

If you get a chance, take a drive by Mama's house. The terrible storm that swept through town in July, totalled out her roof, window screens and siding. She hired a company from Garden City to replace her roof and another company to hang her new siding. Both jobs are done now. To save her some money, our family decided to do her painting. She had already contracted her garage's painting to a local painter but we are doing the rest.

My baby sister, Lona Sue, drove up from Garden City on Saturday morning. Leighlyn, Abigayle and I met her at the house where we promptly put painting into motion. We painted all day. Lona Sue finished painting the front of the house. I still have to roll on at least one more coat on the back side and east side before all of the yellow paint will be finished. Then, we'll be ready to do the "white washin'".

Lori did what she does best--cooked for all of us!!!

Leif brought a couple of his friends over later in the afternoon to help in the yard. They hauled all of the old siding to the junkyard. Then, they went to work helping us with some major landscaping projects.

Mama's house actually looks like it just came alive! It's amazing what a new color will do on a house!!!

VLE-B