In an effort to connect Fort Hays State University students to a community with high demand for new employees, the university will soon host a part-time job fair.

The event is scheduled from 2:30&nbsp; to 4 p.m., Aug. 24, in the Memorial Union on the FHSU campus.

"We want to invite any businesses and organizations who are trying to hire, especially students for part-time positions to participate," said&nbsp;Lisa Karlin, Fort Hays State University career and internships advisor. "There's no cost to attend, but they do have to register."

She said space will be limited and registration is required by Aug. 19. 

"But I would say registering, the earlier, the better," Karlin said.

For those employers that participate, she recommends having applications and organizational materials ready for students to review.

"If they have any kind of nice display, they can bring that, but they don't have to. They can just bring representatives, and we'll have a table for them," Karlin said.

In the current hiring landscape, full of digital applications and Zoom meetings, she said job fairs remain a great way to find and attract local talent.

&nbsp;"It's just a really good opportunity to interact one on one with students," Karlin said. "And it's great for the students too because they have a chance to find out what jobs are available in the community and have that interaction without kind of that scary 'have to go into a business and apply.' "

To register, organizations can use the FHSU student career platform — Handshake.

They can also contact the Career Services office directly at (785) 628-4260 or by email at careers@fhsu.edu.&nbsp;

The Handshake system can be used year-round to connect with students looking for employment.

"It's very easy," Karlin said. "And employers, if they're interested in don't have a Handshake account and contact our office, we can help them get set up.

"Once they've done that, they can actually post jobs themselves, which is nice," she continued. "If an employer does not hire often for permanent positions, maybe just part-time or internships, and they don't really want to have to create an account they can actually just work with our office and we'll post those positions for them."

Along with helping students find potential employers, the office also works to connect businesses with interns.

"We have interns in the community all the time," Karlin said. "In fact, this summer, I think we have about seven in the Hays community. And then we have about 10 outside of Hays through a certain program that we offer throughout the year."

And with numerous other businesses securing internships on their own, it remains a way to recruit future help.

"It's a great way for them to get that hands-on experience and to make connections," Karlin said. "And so if an employer is interested in hosting a student intern, certainly contact career services because we can help them get connected."

🎙 FHSU job fair connects area business to potential workforce

The Hays Public Library Foundation will host the second&nbsp;annual Wine &amp; Cheese Fundraiser at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 17 at the Hays Public Library.&nbsp;

The event will begin with a wine and cheese social hour, followed by a fascinating, inspiring and fun presentation from Kansas Sampler Foundation Executive Director Marci Penner. The evening also will include a raffle.

The Hays Public Library Foundation was established in 2001 to&nbsp;serve as a source for funding emergent and unexpected needs and events associated with the library. In the past the Foundation has raised private donations to fund the exterior of the 2004 remodel, and most recently, the Foundation contributed to the purchase of the bookmobile and to the project to remodel the library. More information about the Foundation and ways to contribute is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/foundation">hayslibrary.org/foundation</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Tickets cost $30 and can be purchased at the library or online at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/event">hayslibrary.org/event</a>. There are a limited number of tickets. Businesses interested in sponsoring the event or providing raffle items are encouraged to contact Callie Kolacny at<a href="mailto:ckolacny@hayslibrary.org">ckolacny@hayslibrary.org</a>.

You can find out more about this and other library programs online at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/">hayslibrary.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-625-9014.

Fundraiser to benefit Hays Public Library Foundation

RUSSELL — The next exhibition opens at the Deines Cultural Center, Russell, on Friday, Aug. 12,&nbsp;with a reception from 5 to 7 p.m.

The Deines is proud to present the Artists at Large of Central Kansas with their show Visual Delights. 

The AAL formed several years ago in Great Bend. It is a group of dedicated artists that meet monthly to share creative ideas and show art. They create drawings from a wide variety of ideas and inspirations. These artists work in an array of mediums -&nbsp; clay, collage, watercolor, pastel, acrylic, oil, and sculpture.&nbsp; Some of them work representationally, some prefer an abstracted realism, and occasionally they might wander into the world of complete abstraction.

These artists find joy in seeing what other members of the group are focused on and intrigued with. They are always looking for ways to expand their own approach to creativity.&nbsp; Sometimes, different members demonstrate their own techniques representing ideas, or new mediums they have tried.

The Deines Cultural Center is located in Russell at 820 N. Main. Call 785-483-3742 for information.

Artists at Large of Central Kansas featured at Deines exhibit

GREAT BEND -&nbsp; The Kansas Wetlands Education Center (KWEC),&nbsp;located northeast of Great Bend on K-156 Highway, is gearing up for its annual “Out of this World” Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party.

The public is invited to join the KWEC staff for this free, family-friendly activity. Each year, as the Earth passes through the dust and debris of the Swift-Tuttle comet, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center celebrates the end of summer with our guests by watching the meteors or shooting stars as they burn in our atmosphere.

This event coincides with the anticipated peak in meteor shower activity for the month on Aug. 12, from 8:30-10:30 p.m. Stargazers may be able to spot from 60-100 meteors per hour during this time. While we anticipate some potential light pollution from the last Supermoon (a full moon that occurs when the moon is closest to the Earth) of the calendar year that will peak the night before, the show will go on regardless of the conditions.

Guests at the meteor show watch party can also take advantage of an opportunity to learn about the science behind the remarkable images recently delivered by the James Webb Space Telescope.

The Webb telescope is the successor of the Hubbell Space Telescope. It uses giant mirrors to create infrared images. Those in attendance can learn how this infrared energy works through a hands-on experiment. Event participants will also be able to walk through a massive star's life cycle while creating a take-home reminder of the process.

Other hands-on activities include creating a spiral galaxy with a spin and paint machine, building&nbsp;a solar-powered moon base welcome sign, enjoying a view of the night sky, and listening to stories about the constellations in an inflatable planetarium. 

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets and munch on s’mores as they scan the night skies.

More information about the KWEC can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJFc7vEqe7DS7B3ss6a93outtocafAwUBsUvyMro9tPazV9Bs_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BTai2JW0-2BEfkelhn7KNzSe5g-2Fe6vVLNPiWqb5Pqkk-2BWlELOOJbE6ATwNZ7-2BOBAIA5tg7-2BBrNLmOy-2Fu5V6OqLSX55-2FMJKzRNyj-2FqyA9Yvi0qhe6ZdO8O3umMvYM7wICBceZfr-2F3QObqkh0bPrfThdpdg9mN7GIEpo-2FvcAKpIBhG-2FmOCXpxcp04jiVINuYg0l1b6IPcQ22ghyCl8E3vGmIUXT3b3J3EaQMeb4xK68kRUGeOszKOpdTMyPtCTrsU2uL2" target="_blank">www.wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or by calling 1-877-243-9268.

Wetlands Education Center schedules meteor shower watch party

LAWRENCE — The names of more than 6,600 graduates at the University 
of Kansas for summer and fall 2021 and spring 2022 have been announced 
by the University Registrar. Many graduates and candidates for degree 
celebrated by participating in KU Commencement, which took place May 15.

Click <a href="https://news.ku.edu/summer-fall-2021-spring-2022-ku-graduates-kansas">HERE</a> for a county-by-county listing of area graduates.

KU announces summer-fall 2021, spring 2022 graduates

There are still leftover backpacks available from the annual Backpacks for Kids giveaway by&nbsp;First Call for Help.

Project Director Laura Shoaff says any Ellis County students in grades K-12 who were not registered for the event may collect a free backpack today (Aug. 5) until 1 p.m. at the Hays Presbyterian Church, 2900 Hall.&nbsp;

Participants should enter the southeast door.&nbsp;

REMINDER: Remaining Backpacks for Kids still available today from First Call For Help

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued several public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.&nbsp;

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water.

Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MDQuNjE3OTg1NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdi8xMTYzL1JlcG9ydC1hbi1JbGxuZXNzLW9yLUhlYWx0aC1JbmNpZGVudD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.eb9lCmC7v8nCY_RPIDgHIMfiAy6UD1FOnEVfv9S2_hU/s/1305913542/br/142099975001-l" target="_blank">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.&nbsp;

Ford County Lake, Ford County Gathering Pond, Geary County&nbsp; Hain SFL, Ford County&nbsp; Jerry Ivey Pond, Saline County&nbsp; Louisburg Old Lake (City Lake), Miami County&nbsp; Milford Lake Zone B, Geary County&nbsp; Milford Lake Zone C, Geary and Clay County&nbsp;

Carbondale City Lake (Strowbridge), Osage County&nbsp; Crystal Lake, Anderson County&nbsp; Lake Scott State Park, Scott County&nbsp; Marion Reservoir, Marion County (Lowered on August 4) Melvern Outlet (River) Pond, Osage County Norton Lake, Norton County&nbsp;

Milford Lake Zone A, Dickinson and Geary Counties

KDHE investigates
publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency
receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible
field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful
conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

For information on
blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please
visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MDQuNjE3OTg1NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdi9IQUI_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.1p-r6qLno54M7se9rReDWjH_0mTeMn6P1BRwKdF35fE/s/1305913542/br/142099975001-l" target="_blank">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Norton Lake under KDHE public health advisory for algae

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly has announced that applications are open for the next Poet Laureate of Kansas. The Poet Laureate of Kansas is an honorary position designed to promote the reading and writing of poetry throughout the state and is sponsored through the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC). The current Kansas Poet Laureate is Huascar Medina, a poet, writer, and performer based in Topeka.&nbsp;

“By preserving the legacy of the generations that came before us, inspiring artists of the future, and driving community and economic development, the Kansas Poet Laureate program is a shining example of the value of supporting local and statewide arts,”&nbsp;said Governor Kelly. “I encourage poets across the state to apply to be the eighth Poet Laureate of Kansas.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Kansas Poet Laureate will serve a term of four years beginning January 1, 2023, and will contribute to the growth and awareness of poetry by presenting their own work and the work of others at public events, readings, workshops, and lectures throughout the state.&nbsp;

“The arts help bring our communities together with stories and experiences that highlight our uniqueness, talents and gifts,”&nbsp;said Lieutenant Governor David Toland. “It has been great to see the return of the Poet Laureate program through the talents of current Poet Laureate Huascar Medina and I’m excited to see this program continue to grow.”&nbsp;

Medina has been busy presenting his program, May Our Voices Ring True, across the state since the program returned to KCAIC in 2021. He currently works as a freelance copywriter and as the Literary Editor for&nbsp;seveneightfive magazine&nbsp;publishing stories that spotlight literary and artistic events in Northeast Kansas. In the fall of 2021,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MDQuNjE3NzM0MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy53aGl0ZWhvdXNlLmdvdi9icmllZmluZy1yb29tL3N0YXRlbWVudHMtcmVsZWFzZXMvMjAyMS8wNi8yMy9wcmVzaWRlbnQtYmlkZW4tYW5ub3VuY2VzLTE3LWtleS1ub21pbmF0aW9ucy8ifQ.9vmcXc5dPocZNFlTsyPDGEV5h8KuWDf333X4kKAdlb4/s/1303161001/br/142074718386-l" target="_blank">Medina&nbsp;was confirmed&nbsp;as&nbsp;a member of the National Council on the Arts.</a>&nbsp;

"It has been an honor to serve as the seventh Poet Laureate of Kansas,”&nbsp;Medina said. “With each new laureate, the Poet Laureate of Kansas program grows in purpose, status and function. We have a strong legacy of words in Kansas, and that tradition will continue with the eighth Poet Laureate. To the next Kansas Poet Laureate, I say: May you find the words and may your words find others."&nbsp;

Beyond sharing poetry across the state, the Poet Laureate participates in the annual Poetry Out Loud competition for high school students and assists with strengthening and expanding the literary arts ecosystem in Kansas. Using the Poet Laureate programming is free of charge to all Kansas non-profit organizations.&nbsp;

To be considered, applicants must submit a complete application by Tuesday, September 6. The Poet Laureate of Kansas Selection Committee will review all submitted applications and select semi-finalists that will be required to give a public presentation. The new Poet Laureate of Kansas will be announced in October.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To learn more about the Poet Laureate Program and to access the application, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MDQuNjE3NzM0MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rYW5zYXNjb21tZXJjZS5nb3YvcHJvZ3JhbS9rY2FpYy9wb2V0LWxhdXJlYXRlLyJ9._tSFC2r7knv1MglTUD9NMBzNsW6viCRj2UHSf5dQk_s/s/1303161001/br/142074718386-l" target="_blank">Poet Laureate page</a>&nbsp;at the Kansas Department of Commerce website.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. announces applications open for next Poet Laureate of Kansas

RUSSELL - August is HERE!! Check out the community events going on in Russell County this month!

Russell County August events

HOXIE- The City of Hoxie is asking that all residents please keep your property mowed and trimmed and weeds sprayed.  

Pursuant to Ordinance 659 it shall be unlawful for any owner, agent, lessee, tenant, or other person occupying or having charge or control of any premises to permit weeds to remain upon said premises or any area between the property lines of said premises and the center line of any adjacent street or alley, including but not specifically limited to sidewalks, streets, alleys, easements, right-of-ways and all other areas, public or private.  

The City will be sending out letters advising that the owner. occupant or agent in charge of the property will be assessed a fine of $25.00 per day for a maximum of $250.00 if the owner does not comply with the notice.

Hoxie residents reminded to keep property mowed or face fines

The Post Rock Community Foundation (Lincoln County, USD 298 and 299) is now accepting applications for fall grants.

Application deadline is October 1.&nbsp;Don't wait, get started today!

<a href="https://bit.ly/3inMZzy?fbclid=IwAR2wUcvSiPDaiZHyRGgZjo_ekkIcQDWOiHP0UZbPQCfHkRmX5mv-Im78wSg" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/3inMZzy</a>

For more information call&nbsp;<a href="tel:7858231800">(785) 823-1800</a>.

Fall grant applications open at Lincoln County's Post Rock Community Foundation

GRAHAM COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 3p.m. Monday in Graham County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 GMC Sierra driven by James C.&nbsp;Thompson, 86, Bogue, was weaving northbound out of a parking lot just south of Palmeroy Street.

The pickup turned left onto U.S. 24 and into a westbound 1999 Kenworth semi driven by Timothy A.&nbsp; Seifert, 60, Osborne. After impact the pickup&nbsp;spun, continued southbound and struck a building.

EMS transported Thompson to the Graham County Medical Center.&nbsp;Seifert was not injured. Thompson was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas man injured after pickup strikes semi, building.

After a cooler start to the work week, the National Weather Service in Dodge City said intense heat will return by the weekend.

A high of 87 was projected Monday — 20 degrees cooler than the high of 107 recorded Sunday.

Highs of 92 Tuesday and 94 Wednesday are predicted before the mercury begins to inch back toward the triple-digit mark as the weekend approaches.

There is a slight chance of showers or isolated thunderstorms early Tuesday morning after 1 a.m.

Enjoy it while it lasts: Relief from intense heat won't last long

By COLE REIF <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND — Know of somebody currently not living in Barton County but would be
great for a job in the county? Great Bend Economic Development is still
rewarding citizens able to successfully recruit friends and family members
outside of Barton County to fill advertised positions. 
Economic Development Director Sara Hayden said the first recipient of the
recruiting incentive went to Larissa Graham of Great Bend as she was able to
recruit a family member to Great Bend to take a position at Adams Brown. Graham
was given $250 for her efforts. 
"Those amounts will differ based on the income of the job that they 
successfully recruit for," said Hayden. "We've had several people take 
advantage of this program, but this is the first successful one that's 
resulted in a hire." 
Any employer paying more than county-median wage can advertise their jobs on
the Great Bend Economic Development website. There are currently seven
employers participating in the recruiting incentive.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Find out more about the program at <a href="https://www.gbedinc.com/grow-workforce">gbedinc.com</a>.

Barton Co. offers cash incentives to residents for recuiting workers

During an add-on day in conjunction with the annual Noyce Summer Summit in June, former Fort Hays State University Noyce Teacher Leaders received training on air quality initiatives thanks to a National Science Foundation grant.

The “Learning Where We Live: A Focus on Air” Workshop, held on the FHSU campus, provided air quality initiative training to math and science teachers from rural districts in Kansas. The training, facilitated by Dr. Paul Adams, FHSU GLOBE Partner Lead and Trainer and Dean of the College of Education, included air quality experts via Zoom. Dr. Kevin Czajkowski, University of Toledo, and Dr. Margaret Pippin, NASA Researcher, focused on the interconnectedness between the air we breathe and events taking place hundreds of miles away. &nbsp;

<a></a>PM2.5 Purple Air Sensors, the first to be provided to schools in the state of Kansas, were provided to six former FHSU math and science majors who currently teach in high-need Kansas middle and high schools. Teachers included Katie Flax, Lakin Werth, Kole Clarke, Nicole Voss, and Karisma Vigerney. The sensors, located in Oakley, Colby, Ransom, Lyons, Pratt, and the FHSU campus, are used to observe particulate matter.&nbsp;

With the launch of the NASA TEMPO satellite on air quality scheduled for December 2022, NASA is engaging professors, teachers, and students from the U.S. to learn more about air quality issues. Sensor data collected by Noyce Teacher Leaders will be used in conjunction with the satellite mission.

During the workshop, Czajkowski and Pippin discussed how data from the Purple Air Sensors could be used to engage students in the classroom. Key to the benefits of the data is understanding how measurements are related to weather events, clouds, wildfires, and other environmental issues.&nbsp;

“Learning about the Earth as a system provides our teachers with the tools to enrich the world of their students as they research what is happening in their backyard,” Adams said.&nbsp;

“Our Noyce teachers are leaders in their schools,” Stramel said. “As math and science teachers, they have formed this special bond. I always think science and math are all around us. We don’t just do it in isolation.”

The Noyce Teacher Leaders will meet again during the fall semester to share ideas about how the sensors and the data collected have been used in their classrooms.

Noyce Teacher Leaders collect air quality data

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Hays Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families.

Recent obituaries and service times

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

I am sharing some wise words from a fellow 4-H agent today and it is a great follow up to the county fair and in preparation for the Kansas State Fair.

Growing up I was quick to hide any ribbons that were not purples! Yes, we all have those purple ribbons, buckles or duffle bags in our goals to win…but what about the “other” ribbons. 

She shared a photo with all ribbons represented because, as she notes, they all matter! 

4-H is about youth development and helping build the next generation. We hope that those who started as Cloverbuds will be in the stands as market buyers someday.

In life, not everyone wins every time and that’s OK, but it’s important to learn so you can grow. 4-H teaches youth valuable lessons that will be essential in this world such as commitment, responsibility, dedication, punctuality, organization, and those are just listing a few! There is no surprise that 4-H youth excel when it comes to job searches as these traits are exactly what businesses are looking for. 

Sarah’s favorite question to ask youth is “what did you fail at?” This can sometimes be a hard question because we are taught failing is bad…but if we never fail how would we learn and grow as human beings? FAILING IS NOT BAD!! Just because you got a red ribbon, it is not bad; instead ask yourself how can we learn from this? Maybe it is seeking out an upperclassman, volunteer, breeder or agent and asking questions. Maybe it's learning more about animal husbandry and being more aggressive with wormer or learning how to read your feed labels to understand protein better. 

There is always knowledge and personal growth to gain. We just need the right mind set to be open to it. So this year, show all your ribbons proudly because you accomplished that! It takes a lot to prepare your projects and present them to the judge! Recognize what did you do well at? What did you fail at? And what are you going to work on? 

Imagine a world of adults who were taught as children their short comings opened the door for opportunity. 

Many thanks to Cowley County 4-H agent, Sarah LaGrone, for sharing her perspective!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H and youth development agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H and Youth Development related questions, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.

Beran: All ribbons count

<a href="https://dsnwk.e3applicants.com/careers">Click HERE to apply.</a>

🎧 Chiefs Training Camp Reports with Mitch Holthus

By TOMMY REZAC <a href="https://stjosephpost.com">St. Joseph Post</a>

Monday was one of the more lowkey training camp practices the Kansas City Chiefs have had so far.

With
 overcast conditions, temperatures in the low 70s and a 
smaller-than-normal crowd, the Chiefs practiced for a swift 75 minutes 
Monday, working out in half-pads and completing a 10-10-10 practice.

A
 10-10-10 means 10 offensive plays, 10 defensive plays and 10 minutes of
 special teams play. That process was repeated twice during Monday's 
workout.

With the starting offense going against the second-team defense, and 
the starting defense going against the third-team offense, there's not a
 lot to ream from practices like these.

One thing is clear, 
however. With eleven practices down, more difficult roster decisions are
 coming, as the Chiefs try and find the right combination for their 
53-man roster this season.

One area where that could be especially
 difficult is wide receiver. Juju Smith-Schuster, Marquez 
Valdes-Scantling, Mecole Hardman and Skyy Moore seem perfectly safe. But
 those behind them, guys like Josh Gordon, Daurice Fountain, Justin 
Watson, Corey Coleman, Cornell Powell, Omar Bayless.

All capable 
receivers, but not adequate room for all of them. Be that as it may, 
coach Andy Reid has liked the competition at that spot.

"It's 
good," he said. "(General manager Brett Veach) has brought in great 
people. He's brought in good players that are going to compete. 
Somewhere, we're going to have to let good players go, but it's a 
tribute to Brett and the job he's done."

One receiver who could be
 on the outside looking in is Gordon, which is probably not expected for
 someone who was drafted 10 years ago and is entering his sixth season 
in the NFL.

After a bit of a slow start to training camp, Reid has noticed a greater sense of urgency from Gordon.

"He's
 had really good days the last few days," Reid noted. "I appreciate his 
effort and he's kind of the senior citizen of that group. He's the older
 receiver in that mix and has had success in this league."

Gordon 
has mostly worked with the second-team offense this camp, but he's had a
 handful of reps with Patrick Mahomes and the first-teamers, especially 
in the last few days.

After Monday's practice, Gordon was asked how confident he is in making the 53-man roster.

"I
 just want to go out and get the opportunities I get and give it 110%," 
Gordon said. "Let the cards fall where they may and see what happens, 
but I don't have an answer for that to be honest. I don't. I wasn't a 
starter last year, so I'm fighting for a spot like everybody else."

Gordon
 was signed by the Chiefs last September and elevated to the active 
roster in October. He played in 12 games last season, making just five 
receptions for 32 yards, but he scored his first touchdown since 2019 on
 a one-yard reception in the Las Vegas game in December.

Gordon 
has faced six total suspensions related to the NFL's substance abuse 
policies. The Chiefs are the fourth NFL team he's played for. Gordon led
 the NFL in receiving yards in 2013 and was named a first-team All-Pro.

The
 Chiefs bring back their entire starting offensive line from last season
 after making major changes in that group following the Super Bowl loss 
to Tampa Bay.

On the defensive front, Kansas City is revamped. The
 Chiefs had just 31 sacks in 2021, which ranked 29th in the league. 
Seventh-year pro and defensive tackle Chris Jones feels confident about 
his group’s progression since the end of last season.

"I think we 
left a lot of opportunities last year and in our last game of the season
 on the field," Jones remarked. "We were able to make a few changes in 
the defensive line room with a lot of familiar faces back. This year, I 
think it's about being gritty. Stopping the run, stopping the pass and 
doing whatever we can to help this defense out."

The Chiefs signed
 defensive ends Carlos Dunlap and Matt Dickerson during camp to provide 
depth. Rookie and first-round pick George Karlaftis also adds an 
additional pass rusher to the defensive line.

Frank Clark and Mike
 Danna also add experience at defensive end, while Derrick Nnadi is a 
fifth-year pro at defensive tackle. Tackles Tershawn Wharton and Khalen 
Saunders have also gotten solid reps on the interior of the line.

Starting center Creed Humphrey has taken notice of the solid competition up front.

"It's
 been very competitive these last couple of weeks," he said. "We've had 
some really humid, hot days. Everybody has been pretty moist out there. 
Just getting after it though and competing every play. So, it's been 
really good. You kind of see the mental toughness we have in the group 
and what the defensive line has in their group."

As
 many have probably seen by now, former Chiefs coach and longtime NFL 
head man Dick Vermeil was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in
 Canton, Ohio this past Saturday.

He and Andy Reid have quite a 
bit in common. Namely, they have both coached the Eagles and Chiefs. 
Vermeil coached the Eagles from 1976-1982, the Rams from '97-'99 and 
then the Chiefs from 2001-2005.

Reid says Vermeil talked to him 
extensively, once Reid took over the Eagles in 1999 and again in 2013 
when he got the Chiefs job.

Reid says he and Vermeil talk a lot 
more often than that, about once a week. Reid made the trip down to 
Canton with his wife, Tammy, to honor a longtime friend and mentor.

"He
 talked to me about the atmosphere (in Kansas City) and...he coached me 
up on it," Reid said. "That's priceless. I mean, that's priceless. And 
he checks in all of the time."

Receiver
 Daurice Fountain didn't work Monday due to a groin strain. Still no 
Jody Forston, as he's "making progress" with a strained quad injury. 
Corner Rashad Fenton (shoulder) and offensive lineman Lucas Niang (knee)
 remain on the injured list. Defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth (knee 
bruise) is also still out.

The Chiefs 
signed defensive end Matt Dickerson Monday and released Shilique Calhoun
 to make room on the 90-man roster. On Saturday, the Chiefs signed 
receiver Devin Gray and released corner Deandre Baker.

Gray was getting his first reps in with the team Monday. Dickerson was seen Monday morning as well, wearing jersey No. 96.

The
 Chiefs have camp again on Tuesday and will rest Wednesday. They'll work
 Thursday and then travel Friday, heading to Chicago for their first 
preseason game against the Bears Saturday.

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

🎥 Chiefs have lighter practice Monday; Gordon hopes to make roster

The Fort Hays State football team held their first practice of the 2022 season Monday morning at Lewis Field.

Following practice, head coach Chris Brown said he was pleased with his team's first official workout.

"I thought it went pretty well. We had lots of energy lots of excitement." Brown said.

"Guys were locked in, they were focused. I feel like they practiced hard completely all the way through practice."

Click below to listen to Brown's post-practice news conference.

Photos courtesy FHSU Sports Information Director Ryan Prickett

🏈🎧 FHSU coach Chris Brown happy with first practice

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;– The Mid-America Intercollege Athletes Association has announced it will utilize an instant replay system, approved by the NCAA, during the upcoming MIAA football season. Last week, the NCAA granted the MIAA’s request for exemption from some of the instant replay requirements listed in Rule 12 of the 2022 NCAA Football Rules Book, approving the MIAA to become the first conference outside of NCAA Division I to implement the use of an instant replay system during football contests. “The MIAA is honored to be selected as the conference to test the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.myskycoach.com/">SkyCoach</a>&nbsp;Instant Replay system during the fall 2022 MIAA football season,” said Commissioner&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaa.com/sports/2018/6/13/GEN_0613184129.aspx">Mike Racy</a>.&nbsp;“The system will provide our Referee with an on-field replay system to immediately review all targeting calls, and it will permit MIAA head coaches to ask for a review of certain plays during the game per NCAA Football Rule 12.” The preliminary plan for the MIAA’s use of instant replay this season is to allow stoppages for a replay review to occur whenever a targeting foul is called by an official on the field, and/or when a coach’s challenge is made of a reviewable play as defined in Rule 12 of the Football Rules Book. In previous seasons, the MIAA has reviewed targeting calls at halftime and at the conclusion of football contests. Now, all targeting fouls that are called will be reviewable by the MIAA referee and calling officials immediately. The MIAA likes that coaches will be the ones deciding what gets reviewed rather than a replay booth. Rule 12 in the football rules book lists the challengeable plays. To see the complete summary of the MIAA replay policies and the list of reviewable plays for the 2022 season,&nbsp;<a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/sidearm.sites/themiaa.sidearmsports.com/documents/2022/8/8/MIAA_Football_Instant_Replay_Policies.pdf">click here</a>. “We had a few plays last year that we could have fixed,” explained MIAA Supervisor of Football Officials, Phil Laurie. “We do make mistakes. Players fumble, throw interceptions—we do make mistakes. But if we can correct them and it doesn’t cost a lot of money, we need to do it.”

🏈 MIAA to implement instant replay for 2022 season

By TOMMY REZAC <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/a73612d5-33f7-4571-aa53-7ecf659e0f95#//">St. Joseph Post</a>

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — Mitch Holthus is entering his 29th year as radio voice of the Kansas City Chiefs.

He's
 experienced the highs and lows of the modern era in Chiefs football. He
 went to training camp for 16 years in River Falls, Wisconsin, the one 
training camp in Kansas City in 2020 and now for the 12th time, he's 
watching the team come into form on the Mosaic Training Fields at 
Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph.

"Every 
year seems like the first year," Holthus told KFEQ Radio. "I know that 
sounds trite or corny, but truthfully, it's that feeling. I feel like 
I'm a rookie every year. That's what I tell the team. Your stomach 
churns, you get nervous and every day is just awesome."

Holthus has had a front row seat to what's surely been the best 
10-year stretch in franchise history. Six straight AFC West 
championships. Nine straight winning seasons. Eight playoff berths since
 2013. Four straight AFC Championship games at Arrowhead Stadium. The 
first Super Bowl win 50 years. The list goes on.

Yet, heading into
 2022, despite all of this recent success and a star-studded roster, 
Holthus believes this team has something to prove, even though they've 
proven themselves time and again.

"This is a team that has very 
unique focus," he said. "They're hyperfocused, starting with their 
biggest stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. Truthfully, there's a 
chip on these guys' shoulder."

The 2021 season left a sour taste. 
Whether it was the 3-4 start, or blowing a 21-3 lead to Cincinnati in 
the AFC title game. The Tyreek Hill trade in March gave doubters some 
fuel as well. Holthus believes all of those factors combined gave this 
team a unique swagger in the offseason.

"They've come in here a 
little ticked off," he noted.&nbsp; "I saw it in minicamp, I saw it in OTAs 
and I've seen it so far here in St. Joe."

Hill is a franchise 
changing player, but the Chiefs picked up veteran receivers Juju 
Smith-Schuster and Marquez Valdes-Scantling in free agency. Plus, rookie
 receiver Skyy Moore has been a breakout star in camp. As has rookie 
running back Isiah Pacheco.

You also look at running back Ronald 
Jones and safety Justin Reid - two veterans picked up in free agency 
that could have a big impact on how the Chiefs do.

"To add that 
with what's already here and the new rookies...somebody pick them fourth
 in the division, but do so at your own peril."

This marks the 
last year that Chiefs training camp is required to be in St. Joseph, 
according to the current agreement. There are two more optional years 
after this, but Missouri Western and Chiefs leadership will evaluate the
 contract once camp is over.

With only about six or seven teams 
left in the NFL that stil travel outside of their home city for camp, 
Holthus is hopeful the Chiefs will keep coming back to Missouri Western.

"They've
 been phenomenal," Holthus said of the University. "Mosaic (Life Care) 
has been phenomenal. The merchants, people like HyVee, have been 
phenomenal. It's a great camp. People say you're going away for camp. 
We're only going 50 minutes away. It's not like we're in Wisconsin."

"We've
 had 11 camps in St. Joe and have been to the playoffs in eight of those
 11 years. I don't think it's a coincidence that the most successful 
nine years in Chiefs history, a lot of it is Andy Reid and Patrick 
Mahomes and Travis Kelce, but this is where those seasons begin - right 
here on this campus and right here in this city."

As for a season 
prediction? Holthus doesn't put out a specific number of wins and 
losses. Though, he's confident a Super Bowl contender is being molded 
yet again. Even if others on the outside don't feel that way anymore.

"This
 is a refocused, recharged, rebooted team," he said. "There's a lot of 
talent and the coaching is superb. It's crazy that a team that is this 
successful is actually, in a way, going to sneak up on people. But, 
that's the way I feel."

Holthus: Chiefs enter '22 season 'hyperfocused, ticked off'

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — MJ Melendez hit a three-run home run in the fifth inning and had a career-high six RBIs to help the Kansas City Royals beat the Boston Red Sox 13-5 on Sunday.

The rookie Melendez blasted it an estimated 406-feet to right field which bounced into the fountains to give the Royals a 5-0 lead.

Melendez is putting together quite the campaign after being called up on May 3. He’s hit 13 home runs on the year and has back-to-back homer games four times this season. Among rookies, he’s hit the fifth most home runs this season and is just two behind teammate Bobby Witt Jr.

“Just being relaxed helps the confidence and just telling myself that definitely helps,” Melendez said. “It prevents me from over thinking. I knew that we can do this and it was just a matter of time with getting comfortable.”

The 7-8-9 hitters of Michael Massey, Nate Eaton and Kyle Isbel provided most of the production as they went a combined 6-for-9 with nine runs scored and five RBIs. All 13 RBIs came from rookies.

“When you start winning games, the energy starts getting bigger and bigger,” Eaton said. “You just take that into the next series and that'll hopefully make it really great.”

Brad Keller (6-12) had his 11th quality start of the season, going six innings, allowing one run on four hits while walking three and fanning four.

“It was hot, but our defense was unbelievable today and it was a lot of fun,” Keller said. “The offense exploded which was a lot of fun to watch so it was good.”

Rafael Devers put the lone blemish on Keller’s line when he hit his 24th homer of the year, sending one 441-feet into the right field fountains. Tommy Pham hit a towering 427-foot two-run homer to left field off Taylor Clarke in the seventh.

“Offensively, we hit the ball hard today which is good,” Red Sox manager Alex Cora said. “I just think pitching wise we have to be better...Overall, it's not excuses, we just have to play better."

Kutter Crawford (3-4) allowed five earned runs over five innings on five hits, struck out four and walked two. Darwinzon Hernandez gave up five runs, five hits and four walks in the eighth inning.

“Just the command, not having the greatest feel and you fall behind and I just had a hard time getting back into counts," Crawford said. “They were coming out swinging early.”

With the youth movement in full bloom in Kansas City, they have won four of their last five home series and it’s the first time the Royals have won a four-game set against Boston since 2013.

“I think the chemistry is a big part of it,” Melendez explained. “A lot of these guys have played together for a while and that’s going to help our chemistry of course. We have a lot of confidence in the guys behind us.”

“We're watching a group of younger players not afraid to take a walk in big situations and pass it off to the next guy,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “I think we only had one missed opportunity today...guys are taking a lot of pride in getting runs in.”

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