Saturday, May 9, 2020
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Where the buffalo roam Grad plans nixed By TREVOR HOAG The Iola Register
As the state’s official animal, there are few images more representative of Kansas than the bison or buffalo. If you look closely at the Kansas state flag, you can even spot Native American hunters in pursuit of a herd of buffalo, which speaks to the fact that not only are buffalo connected to the history of white settlements in Kansas in the mid 1800s, but to an indigenous history and prehistory stretching back for millenia. Buffalo once numbered in the millions across prairie grasslands regions, but during the second half of the nineteenth century, they were nearly hunted to extinction. Thanks to conservation efforts, there are about a half a million buffalo in the U.S. today, though long-gone See BUFFALO | Page A7
By VICKIE MOSS The Iola Register
Graduation plans for two Allen County schools have been put on hold, again, as the state clarified its prohibition on such ceremonies. Graduations are not allowed during Phase One of Gov. Laura Kelly’s plan to reopen the state because of the coronavirus pandemic. Phase Two begins May 18, but it was not immediately clear if graduations would be allowed
Buffalo curiously watch human onlookers while remaining close to the herd at Siefker Farms, Inc. south of Moran. REGISTER/TREVOR HOAG
See GRAD | Page A4
Still no Curtain closes for retiring Allen instructors COVID cases; testing rates lagging here By RICHARD LUKEN The Iola Register
By VICKIE MOSS The Iola Register
Allen and Anderson counties remain among the few counties in eastern Kansas without confirmed COVID-19 cases. Fingers crossed, officials are hoping this isn’t because of a lower testing rate compared to neighboring counties. On Friday, local health officials said they were not sure why Allen County shows a lower rate, as clinics continue to test according to state See COVID | Page A3
Allen Community College’s 2019-20 theatrical season was cut short, like countless other school events and activities, because of COVID-19. The lost spring play — “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” — carries special significance, on top of being one of Shakespeare’s most beloved stories. It also was slated to be the final play directed by Tony Piazza, who along with wife Terri is retiring from Allen at the conclusion of the spring semester. “I was looking for a big closing show,” he said. “We had a great cast, and I’d never done ‘Midsummer’ before.” As an added touch, Iola See PIAZZAS | Page A5
Tony and Terri Piazza are retiring from their respective teaching posts at Allen Community College. Tony has been with the college the past 21 years; Terri for 20. REGISTER/RICHARD LUKEN
Local restaurants eagerly greet diners once again By ERICK MITCHELL The Iola Register
Restaurants such as El Charro are once again allowing inside dining. REGISTER/ERICK MITCHELL
Not being able to open their dining rooms because of the COVID-19 pandemic has been rough for restaurants. But with Gov. Laura Kelly’s three-phase plan to reopen Kansas in place, many restaurants sighed in relief when they could open for dinein starting May 4. During this Phase One, restaurants are
able to allow customers in their dining areas. Maximum capacity is 10 with a social distance of 6 feet between tables. Leo Vargas-Garcia, general manager at El Charro Mexican Restaurant, said the last six weeks have been a challenge. “It has been frustrating and stressful, just trying to make enough money to pay bills and salaries,” Vargas-Garcia said.
Vargas-Garcia says he did not let any employees go during the slow period. Workers’ hours were reduced, but they still earned a paycheck. Since last week, El Charro employees have been on full-time schedules. Vargas-Garcia said he was optimistic his doors could have opened sooner to the public, due to Allen County not having any confirmed cases of COVID-19.
“It was a big relief, but I thought it was way too long,” Vargas-Garcia said. “I thought it could have been a little bit earlier. We had to follow the rules I guess.” Usually closed on Tuesday, Vargas-Garcia opened his doors on the famed Mexican Holiday, Cinco De Mayo, and was surprised by the reception he received. “It was wonderful, See DINERS | Page A4
Vol. 122, No. 136 Iola, KS 75 Cents NMRMC Women’s Health Center Chanute 620-431-0340