USD 489 children's summer food program to start May 30

This year’s Hays Public Library Summer Challenge theme is "All Together Now!" The challenge will run from May 22 to July 29.

The library will use the online program Beanstack to track summer reading for children and teens. Through Beanstack, families register participants and use the program to log their reading progress. Staff will assist with sign-up and logging for those without computer access. Challenges have been created for each age group, early literacy, elementary, and young adult.

For children and teens, the Summer Challenge is an exciting way to improve literacy during the summer months.&nbsp;Numerous studies show that kids who don't read during&nbsp;summer&nbsp;vacation, actually slip in reading ability by the time school begins in the fall.

Registration is required and begins May 1, online or in person. Each child who registers receives a gift. A prize will be given to each child who completes their challenge by the end of the event on July 29. Those who complete the challenge also will put their name in a drawing for the grand prize of their choice. The ending party this year will be held at the Hays Aquatic Park. Only those who complete the Summer Challenge by July 26 will receive an invitation to the pool party.

Adults participate in the Summer Challenge by completing activities on a bookmark that can be picked up at the library, beginning May 22. They will receive a tote bag when they sign up. There will be 12 challenges. Adults will have until July 28 to complete all the challenges and submit an entry into the end of the summer adult prize drawing.&nbsp;

A day of activities will kick off the Challenge on May 22nd. Along with crafts and snacks, the day will include performances by Jammin’ Randy at 10 a.m., Jetpack Jason at 1 p.m., and the Wizard of Oz Museum at 3 p.m.

For more information about the Summer Challenge and to sign up on Beanstack, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/srp23">hayslibrary.org/srp23</a>&nbsp;or call 785-625-9014.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682364183451.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>HPLThis year’s Hays Public Library Summer Challenge theme is "All Together Now!" The challenge will run from May 22 to July 29.The library will use the online program Beanstack to track summer reading for children and teens. Through Beanstack, families register participants and use the program to log their reading progress. Staff will assist with sign-up and logging for those without computer access. Challenges have been created for each age group, early literacy, elementary, and young adult.For children and teens, the Summer Challenge is an exciting way to improve literacy during the summer months.&nbsp;Numerous studies show that kids who don't read during&nbsp;summer&nbsp;vacation, actually slip in reading ability by the time school begins in the fall.Registration is required and begins May 1, online or in person. Each child who registers receives a gift. A prize will be given to each child who completes their challenge by the end of the event on July 29. Those who complete the challenge also will put their name in a drawing for the grand prize of their choice. The ending party this year will be held at the Hays Aquatic Park. Only those who complete the Summer Challenge by July 26 will receive an invitation to the pool party.Adults participate in the Summer Challenge by completing activities on a bookmark that can be picked up at the library, beginning May 22. They will receive a tote bag when they sign up. There will be 12 challenges. Adults will have until July 28 to complete all the challenges and submit an entry into the end of the summer adult prize drawing.&nbsp;A day of activities will kick off the Challenge on May 22nd. Along with crafts and snacks, the day will include performances by Jammin’ Randy at 10 a.m., Jetpack Jason at 1 p.m., and the Wizard of Oz Museum at 3 p.m.For more information about the Summer Challenge and to sign up on Beanstack, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/srp23">hayslibrary.org/srp23</a>&nbsp;or call 785-625-9014.

Hays Public Library Summer Challenge: 'All Together now'

Team entries open for United Way of Ellis Co. golf tourney

&nbsp; The Hays Public Library Summer Events &amp; Programs magazine is now available at the library, 1205 Main, and online. <a href="https://hayslibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Summer-2023-website.pdf?be9879&amp;fbclid=IwAR2Nzimr-pXRC9Qir-wyljd98ICxY-DDd9wD1-FiP1QBT4gQ3Sh0Ffq6iaM" target="_blank">https://hayslibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Summer-2023-website.pdf?be9879&amp;be9879</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682613630041.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>&nbsp; The Hays Public Library Summer Events &amp; Programs magazine is now available at the library, 1205 Main, and online. <a href="https://hayslibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Summer-2023-website.pdf?be9879&amp;fbclid=IwAR2Nzimr-pXRC9Qir-wyljd98ICxY-DDd9wD1-FiP1QBT4gQ3Sh0Ffq6iaM" target="_blank">https://hayslibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Summer-2023-website.pdf?be9879&amp;be9879</a>

Summer events info at Hays Public Library now available

'If the Shoe Fits, Throw It' tourney in Ellis Saturday

Party in the Park July 7 in Norton includes ATV rodeo

May 6th Bethesda Garden Day in Hays includes plant sales

GREAT BEND - The Barton Music Department, in conjunction with the Central Kansas Community Choir, will present the “Kansas Connection,” concert featuring music from the Heartland by Kansas composers at 7:30 p.m. May 6 at the First Presbyterian Church, 2400 Washington St., Great Bend.

Director of Choral Activities Dr. Eric Foley said the concert choir and community choir members will perform selections that originate from either Kansas composers or arrangers, all of them living.

“Audience members may know some of these selections from their past in either school groups while they were in music classes in elementary through high school or growing up and listening to them on the radio,” he said. “One of our arrangers actually grew up here in Great Bend and actively arranges music for schools and professional ensembles around the world. There will be something for everyone in addition to highlighting our own musicians that hail from Kansas.”

For more information, contact Foley at (620) 792-9395 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foleye@bartonccc.edu">foleye@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://shows.bartonccc.edu/">shows.bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682523607541.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>BCCGREAT BEND - The Barton Music Department, in conjunction with the Central Kansas Community Choir, will present the “Kansas Connection,” concert featuring music from the Heartland by Kansas composers at 7:30 p.m. May 6 at the First Presbyterian Church, 2400 Washington St., Great Bend.Director of Choral Activities Dr. Eric Foley said the concert choir and community choir members will perform selections that originate from either Kansas composers or arrangers, all of them living.“Audience members may know some of these selections from their past in either school groups while they were in music classes in elementary through high school or growing up and listening to them on the radio,” he said. “One of our arrangers actually grew up here in Great Bend and actively arranges music for schools and professional ensembles around the world. There will be something for everyone in addition to highlighting our own musicians that hail from Kansas.”For more information, contact Foley at (620) 792-9395 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foleye@bartonccc.edu">foleye@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://shows.bartonccc.edu/">shows.bartonccc.edu</a>.

KS composers, Central KS Community Choir featured at BCC concert

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

More than 7,000 rain barrels have been assembled and purchased since the rain barrel project started several years ago in Hays.

Stacie Minson, K-State watershed specialist, is project organizer. 

"This year is definitely the year for rain barrels, my fear is," she said.

Volunteers from the Fort Hays State University Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity will help construct the rain barrels Thursday, along with Ellis County Master Gardeners, the city of Hays, and K-State Watersheds.&nbsp;

The barrels are built ready-to-go, said Minson. 

"All you have to do is put it under your down spout," she said.

The barrel building starts at 3 p.m. and&nbsp;completed rain barrels may be picked up from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the K-State Agricultural Center, south of Hays at 1232 240th Ave.&nbsp;

Cost is $40 per barrel. Contact Minson at 785-769-3297 to reserve one.

The plastic 55-gallon barrels that previously held cola syrup are donated by Heartland Coca-Cola of Victoria.&nbsp;

Hays-built rain barrels are located in at least 15 states, including Alaska, according to Minson.

The Region 7 Environmental Protection Agency, which includes Kansas, presented the rain barrel project in Kansas City several years ago.

Then EPA Chicago had Minson ship assembly parts to their region so they could host a similar event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682521133640.jpeg" alt="Volunteers assemble rain barrels from 55-gallon cola syrup containers donated by Heartland Coca-Cola, Victoria. Photos and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Volunteers assemble rain barrels from 55-gallon cola syrup containers donated by Heartland Coca-Cola, Victoria. Photos and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostMore than 7,000 rain barrels have been assembled and purchased since the rain barrel project started several years ago in Hays.Stacie Minson, K-State watershed specialist, is project organizer. "This year is definitely the year for rain barrels, my fear is," she said.Volunteers from the Fort Hays State University Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity will help construct the rain barrels Thursday, along with Ellis County Master Gardeners, the city of Hays, and K-State Watersheds.&nbsp;The barrels are built ready-to-go, said Minson. "All you have to do is put it under your down spout," she said.The barrel building starts at 3 p.m. and&nbsp;completed rain barrels may be picked up from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the K-State Agricultural Center, south of Hays at 1232 240th Ave.&nbsp;Cost is $40 per barrel. Contact Minson at 785-769-3297 to reserve one.The plastic 55-gallon barrels that previously held cola syrup are donated by Heartland Coca-Cola of Victoria.&nbsp;<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/ui0ea6HM-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Roll Out Rain Barrel " style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Hays-built rain barrels are located in at least 15 states, including Alaska, according to Minson.The Region 7 Environmental Protection Agency, which includes Kansas, presented the rain barrel project in Kansas City several years ago.Then EPA Chicago had Minson ship assembly parts to their region so they could host a similar event.

🎥 Roll Out the Rain Barrel event is Thursday in Hays

Agency on Aging Info Day set for May 3 in Hays

DOWNS&nbsp; - Stories are magical. Stories can make us laugh until our eyes water, sob with deep emotion, jump with fright and then comfort us with a happy ending. A young storyteller can create other worlds, elicit emotional highs and lows, foster unheard-of ideas, and make every day seem incredible. Learning the art of storytelling can teach children many skills and take listeners on extraordinary journeys.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/" target="_blank">Kansas Storytelling Festival</a>&nbsp;is&nbsp;sponsoring a workshop on Saturday, April 29, for students ages eight and older to introduce and mentor them in the art form of storytelling.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.slatertales.com/" target="_blank">Joyce&nbsp;Slater</a>, a professional storyteller from the Kansas City area, is coming to teach and inspire the students. She brings puppets, fiction and nonfiction books, and research materials for inspiration. The workshop starts at 11:00 a.m. A break for lunch allows participants to eat, then return for the 1:00 p.m. program of telling their stories to each other and guests. &nbsp; The workshop will mix up activities for groups and individuals and is guaranteed to be an excellent experience for youth.

The Kansas Storytelling Festival proudly presents its annual event on April 28 and 29, 2023. Over the two days, the festival also offers the yearly tall tales contest, ghost stories, legends, workshops, master storytellers, and more. The event includes six nationally recognized tellers performing on four stages throughout the Festival.

Every session at the festival offers great entertainment. Here are just a few highlights of this year's line-up:&nbsp;

Kevin Kling’s autobiographical tales are as enchanting as they are true to life: hopping freight trains, getting hit by lightning, performing his banned play in Czechoslovakia, 
growing up in Minnesota, and eating things before knowing what they are. <a href="http://www.kevinkling.com/" target="_blank">www.kevinkling.com/</a>

Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.’s stories are about growing up in his native Detroit, tales about old blues musicians, or inspirational stories drawn from history or scripture. Rev. Robert Jones loves telling stories that reach the mind and the heart.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.revrobertjones.com/" target="_blank">www.revrobertjones.com/</a>

Megan Hicks is a self-proclaimed Teller-Without-a-Niche. Megan dives heart-first into every story she tells – fairy tale, personal story, American history, parody, ghost and horror, humor – you’ll be happy to follow. <a href="http://www.meganhicks.com/" target="_blank">www.meganhicks.com/</a>

Brian "Fox'' Ellis’s goal is to inspire the audience to awaken to a deeper understanding of who they are within their relationship to human history and the natural world around them. Through the art of storytelling, celebrate history in person, folktales, science, and literature with Brian. <a href="https://www.foxtalesint.com/" target="_blank">https://www.foxtalesint.com/</a>&nbsp;

Mo Reynolds has tried to like knitting and crocheting, but the only weaving she enjoys has to do with words. Mo weaves personal stories with folk and fairy tales, throwing in a tall tale here and there for good measure. <a href="https://www.moreynolds.com/" target="_blank">https://www.moreynolds.com/ 
</a>

Joyce Slater is a teaching artist, and revels in the exploration of the creativity of both students and teachers. Joyce leads audiences of ages on a magic path through folktales, fairy tales, ghost stories, personal narratives, and more.&nbsp;

All workshops are experiential; the only way to learn storytelling is by doing it.

A Friday Festival highlight at the Kansas Storytelling Festival is the Kansas Tall Tales Contest. Throughout the festival, enjoy the incredible talent through Legends, Ghost Stories, Storytelling Workshops, Master Storytellers, Swappin’ Ground, and Featured Tellers Q &amp; A. 

All storytelling locations are accessible within a few blocks of walking distance. There is plenty of parking on Morgan Ave., Downtown Downs.

The festival’s program, venues, lineup information, show time/schedule of events, admission, where to stay, etc., are all in the festival’s link on the Kansas Storytelling Festival website,&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/" target="_blank">https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/</a>

For information about the Kansas Storytelling Festival, Brenda Gutierrez, 785-577-5421, <a href="mailto:kansasstorytelling@gmail.com" target="_blank">kansasstorytelling@gmail.com</a>

Purchase admission buttons early online, <a href="https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/shop" target="_blank">kansasstorytellingfestival.com/shop</a>, for both days, one day, or for a specific performance at the registration area in the Downs Memorial Hall, 500 Morgan Avenue.&nbsp;

Purchase buttons (admission) for Friday or Saturday of the festival at the festival registration area in the Memorial Hall, Morgan Ave, or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/shop" target="_blank">https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/shop</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682347890310.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedDOWNS&nbsp; - Stories are magical. Stories can make us laugh until our eyes water, sob with deep emotion, jump with fright and then comfort us with a happy ending. A young storyteller can create other worlds, elicit emotional highs and lows, foster unheard-of ideas, and make every day seem incredible. Learning the art of storytelling can teach children many skills and take listeners on extraordinary journeys.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682348058215.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/" target="_blank">Kansas Storytelling Festival</a>&nbsp;is&nbsp;sponsoring a workshop on Saturday, April 29, for students ages eight and older to introduce and mentor them in the art form of storytelling.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.slatertales.com/" target="_blank">Joyce&nbsp;Slater</a>, a professional storyteller from the Kansas City area, is coming to teach and inspire the students. She brings puppets, fiction and nonfiction books, and research materials for inspiration. The workshop starts at 11:00 a.m. A break for lunch allows participants to eat, then return for the 1:00 p.m. program of telling their stories to each other and guests. &nbsp; The workshop will mix up activities for groups and individuals and is guaranteed to be an excellent experience for youth.The Kansas Storytelling Festival proudly presents its annual event on April 28 and 29, 2023. Over the two days, the festival also offers the yearly tall tales contest, ghost stories, legends, workshops, master storytellers, and more. The event includes six nationally recognized tellers performing on four stages throughout the Festival.Every session at the festival offers great entertainment. Here are just a few highlights of this year's line-up:&nbsp;Kevin Kling’s autobiographical tales are as enchanting as they are true to life: hopping freight trains, getting hit by lightning, performing his banned play in Czechoslovakia, 
growing up in Minnesota, and eating things before knowing what they are. <a href="http://www.kevinkling.com/" target="_blank">www.kevinkling.com/</a>Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr.’s stories are about growing up in his native Detroit, tales about old blues musicians, or inspirational stories drawn from history or scripture. Rev. Robert Jones loves telling stories that reach the mind and the heart.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.revrobertjones.com/" target="_blank">www.revrobertjones.com/</a>Megan Hicks is a self-proclaimed Teller-Without-a-Niche. Megan dives heart-first into every story she tells – fairy tale, personal story, American history, parody, ghost and horror, humor – you’ll be happy to follow. <a href="http://www.meganhicks.com/" target="_blank">www.meganhicks.com/</a>Brian "Fox'' Ellis’s goal is to inspire the audience to awaken to a deeper understanding of who they are within their relationship to human history and the natural world around them. Through the art of storytelling, celebrate history in person, folktales, science, and literature with Brian. <a href="https://www.foxtalesint.com/" target="_blank">https://www.foxtalesint.com/</a>&nbsp;Mo Reynolds has tried to like knitting and crocheting, but the only weaving she enjoys has to do with words. Mo weaves personal stories with folk and fairy tales, throwing in a tall tale here and there for good measure. <a href="https://www.moreynolds.com/" target="_blank">https://www.moreynolds.com/ 
</a>Joyce Slater is a teaching artist, and revels in the exploration of the creativity of both students and teachers. Joyce leads audiences of ages on a magic path through folktales, fairy tales, ghost stories, personal narratives, and more.&nbsp;All workshops are experiential; the only way to learn storytelling is by doing it.A Friday Festival highlight at the Kansas Storytelling Festival is the Kansas Tall Tales Contest. Throughout the festival, enjoy the incredible talent through Legends, Ghost Stories, Storytelling Workshops, Master Storytellers, Swappin’ Ground, and Featured Tellers Q &amp; A. All storytelling locations are accessible within a few blocks of walking distance. There is plenty of parking on Morgan Ave., Downtown Downs.The festival’s program, venues, lineup information, show time/schedule of events, admission, where to stay, etc., are all in the festival’s link on the Kansas Storytelling Festival website,&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/" target="_blank">https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/</a> For information about the Kansas Storytelling Festival, Brenda Gutierrez, 785-577-5421, <a href="mailto:kansasstorytelling@gmail.com" target="_blank">kansasstorytelling@gmail.com</a>Purchase admission buttons early online, <a href="https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/shop" target="_blank">kansasstorytellingfestival.com/shop</a>, for both days, one day, or for a specific performance at the registration area in the Downs Memorial Hall, 500 Morgan Avenue.&nbsp;Purchase buttons (admission) for Friday or Saturday of the festival at the festival registration area in the Memorial Hall, Morgan Ave, or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/shop" target="_blank">https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/shop</a>

Child storytellers workshop part of annual Kansas Storytelling Festival in Downs this weekend

The new and improved Hays Post native app for iOS and Android devices is now available FREE for your mobile device. And you'll never have to hunt for it in the shrubs '-)

NOTE: Not currently available on the most recent Android cellphones. Our web team is working on an update. Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/18969dde-98b7-4a35-a365-f2979ae1cffa">HERE</a> for instructions on how to bookmark HaysPost.com on your home screen.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/download">Click HERE to download from the App Store or Google Play.</a>

The new and improved Hays Post native app for iOS and Android devices is now available FREE for your mobile device. And you'll never have to hunt for it in the shrubs '-)NOTE: Not currently available on the most recent Android cellphones. Our web team is working on an update. Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/18969dde-98b7-4a35-a365-f2979ae1cffa">HERE</a> for instructions on how to bookmark HaysPost.com on your home screen.<a href="https://hayspost.com/download">Click HERE to download from the App Store or Google Play.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
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📲 Hays Post app available on App Store, Google Play

Autonomous humanoid robot featured at tonight's FHSU Science Cafe

BUNKER HILL —&nbsp;Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Taylor Ziegler, DNP, FNP.&nbsp; Taylor is with Camber Children’s Mental Health in Hays.&nbsp; This episode will airat 7 p.m. Tuesday and will focus on children's mental health.

Doctors on Call&nbsp;is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;

The program airs live on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 PM on Tuesdays. You can also stream each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS <a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">YouTube channel.</a>

A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;

To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org" target="_blank">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.

Doctors on Call&nbsp;is made possible in part by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kammco.com/" target="_blank">KAMMCO</a>&nbsp;(Kansas Medical Mutual Insurance Company),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.russellhospital.org/" target="_blank">Russell Regional Hospital</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scmhks.org/" target="_blank">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682085302468.png" alt="On-air-DOC_web.png" />
 <figcaption>On-air-DOC_web.png</figcaption>
 </figure>SHPTVBUNKER HILL —&nbsp;Doctors on Call, a local production of Smoky Hills PBS, will feature Taylor Ziegler, DNP, FNP.&nbsp; Taylor is with Camber Children’s Mental Health in Hays.&nbsp; This episode will airat 7 p.m. Tuesday and will focus on children's mental health.Doctors on Call&nbsp;is a program that provides medical information on a variety of different topics. Medical professionals from throughout the state travel to Bunker Hill to provide information and answer questions from the viewing audience. The doctors presenting each week have expertise in the topic chosen for that program.&nbsp; Questions can be called in during the show or emailed prior to the broadcast.&nbsp;The program airs live on Smoky Hills PBS at 7 PM on Tuesdays. You can also stream each episode on the Smoky Hills PBS <a href="http://bit.ly/StreamSmokyHillsPBS">YouTube channel.</a>A schedule of programs and past episodes are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/" target="_blank">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>.&nbsp;To submit questions electronically on a specific topic, viewers can send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:doctors@shptv.org" target="_blank">doctors@shptv.org</a>. Questions submitted through email must be received by noon on the day of the show. During the program, viewers can call I-800-337-4788.Doctors on Call&nbsp;is made possible in part by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kammco.com/" target="_blank">KAMMCO</a>&nbsp;(Kansas Medical Mutual Insurance Company),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.russellhospital.org/" target="_blank">Russell Regional Hospital</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scmhks.org/" target="_blank">Smith County Memorial Hospital</a>.

Next 'Doctors on Call' will focus on children’s mental health

Green Beret, bourbon label founder set for Hays appearance

UPDATED schedule for Saturday's Buzzard Bash In WaKeeney

The 2023 WaKeeney Buzzard Bash will be celebrated Saturday, April 22, in downtown WaKeeney.

Due to the forecasted low temperatures, the Wes Cossman Band performance has been moved to the Trego County fairgrounds commercial building.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682090727016.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The 2023 WaKeeney Buzzard Bash will be celebrated Saturday, April 22, in downtown WaKeeney.Due to the forecasted low temperatures, the Wes Cossman Band performance has been moved to the Trego County fairgrounds commercial building.

WaKeeney Buzzard Bash is Saturday

Western Plains USD 106 The Western Plains FACS department is looking for donations of the following items:

Sewing supplies, scrap material, embroidery hoops, floss, cross stitching materials, felt, buttons, etc. 

Any donations can be dropped off at either Bazine or Ransom Schools. Please keep us in mind as you do your spring cleaning. We would be happy to accept donations at any time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682089454361.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Western Plains USD 106 The Western Plains FACS department is looking for donations of the following items:Sewing supplies, scrap material, embroidery hoops, floss, cross stitching materials, felt, buttons, etc. Any donations can be dropped off at either Bazine or Ransom Schools. Please keep us in mind as you do your spring cleaning. We would be happy to accept donations at any time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Western Plains USD 106 looking for donations of sewing supplies

On Saturday morning, the Hays Fire Department and Ellis County Fire Department will be conducting live fire training of grass for USD 489 located at O’Loughlin Elementary School, 1401 Hall. This burn will provide local firefighters with training and knowledge of how to combat grass fires. With firefighters on site, they can ensure that the burn mitigation of the grass plots will be conducted safely.

The O’Loughlin School prairie plots were established in 1993 as an educational tool for USD 489, as well as for the general public. This is a designated Outdoor Wildlife Learning Site (OWLS) similar to other such sites established on school grounds across Kansas. These burns have been previously done in April or May since 1995. Stand of prairie grasses and wildflowers require occasional burning to remove excess litter, stimulate vigorous new growth and reduce the fire danger. Without burning litter accumulation suppresses new growth and the vegetation in the stand becomes decadent and cannot be duplicated by mowing or haying the grasses.

News releaseOn Saturday morning, the Hays Fire Department and Ellis County Fire Department will be conducting live fire training of grass for USD 489 located at O’Loughlin Elementary School, 1401 Hall. This burn will provide local firefighters with training and knowledge of how to combat grass fires. With firefighters on site, they can ensure that the burn mitigation of the grass plots will be conducted safely.The O’Loughlin School prairie plots were established in 1993 as an educational tool for USD 489, as well as for the general public. This is a designated Outdoor Wildlife Learning Site (OWLS) similar to other such sites established on school grounds across Kansas. These burns have been previously done in April or May since 1995. Stand of prairie grasses and wildflowers require occasional burning to remove excess litter, stimulate vigorous new growth and reduce the fire danger. Without burning litter accumulation suppresses new growth and the vegetation in the stand becomes decadent and cannot be duplicated by mowing or haying the grasses.

Controlled burn scheduled at O'Loughlin Elementary

The Kansas Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting and open house from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Monday, May 1, to provide information on three upcoming bridge reconstruction projects along K-9 in Norton and Phillips counties.

The event will be held at the Logan Community Building, located at 107 N Mill Street in Logan.&nbsp;KDOT and project representatives will provide a project overview starting at 5:30 p.m. Design plans and detour information will also be available for review.

Construction on the bridges will take place in 2023 and 2024. In Norton County, the bridge being replaced is located approximately 4 miles east of the K-173 junction. The Phillips County bridges are located 3.5 and 7.5 miles east of the Norton County line.

Anyone who requires language translation, special assistance or accommodation to attend the meeting should contact KDOT public affairs manager Lisa Mussman at 785-874-8107 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lisa.mussman@ks.gov">lisa.mussman@ks.gov</a>one week before the meeting date.&nbsp;

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting and open house from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Monday, May 1, to provide information on three upcoming bridge reconstruction projects along K-9 in Norton and Phillips counties.The event will be held at the Logan Community Building, located at 107 N Mill Street in Logan.&nbsp;KDOT and project representatives will provide a project overview starting at 5:30 p.m. Design plans and detour information will also be available for review.Construction on the bridges will take place in 2023 and 2024. In Norton County, the bridge being replaced is located approximately 4 miles east of the K-173 junction. The Phillips County bridges are located 3.5 and 7.5 miles east of the Norton County line.Anyone who requires language translation, special assistance or accommodation to attend the meeting should contact KDOT public affairs manager Lisa Mussman at 785-874-8107 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lisa.mussman@ks.gov">lisa.mussman@ks.gov</a>one week before the meeting date.&nbsp;

Public meeting set for upcoming Norton, Phillips Co. bridge project

Veterans' Connection event scheduled for April 29 in Hays

RUSSELL - A household hazardous waste drop-off day will be held in Russell on Saturday, April 22.

Get rid of old paint, stains, varnishes, indoor and outdoor insecticides, weed killers and drain cleaners along with e-waste like cellphones, computers and TVs. This is for household waste only.

No commercial hazardous waste, medical waste, used motor oil or mercury.

Please take your household waste items to the Noxious Weed Office at 205 South Front Street in Russell between 8 a.m. and noon on Saturday, April 22.

Also, the Noxious Weed Office is accepting household batteries throughout the year during normal business hours. Batteries accepted are ones that are used for radios, flashlights, hearing aids, watches, cameras and small hand tools. No truck or car batteries will be accepted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682000177131.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>City of RussellRUSSELL - A household hazardous waste drop-off day will be held in Russell on Saturday, April 22.Get rid of old paint, stains, varnishes, indoor and outdoor insecticides, weed killers and drain cleaners along with e-waste like cellphones, computers and TVs. This is for household waste only.No commercial hazardous waste, medical waste, used motor oil or mercury.Please take your household waste items to the Noxious Weed Office at 205 South Front Street in Russell between 8 a.m. and noon on Saturday, April 22.Also, the Noxious Weed Office is accepting household batteries throughout the year during normal business hours. Batteries accepted are ones that are used for radios, flashlights, hearing aids, watches, cameras and small hand tools. No truck or car batteries will be accepted.

Russell to host hazardous waste drop-off day Saturday morning

The Red Cross will have a blood drive from noon to 6 p.m. Friday, April 21 at the&nbsp;LaCrosse City Auditorium in LaCrosse.

The Red Cross will have a blood drive from noon to 6 p.m. Friday, April 21 at the&nbsp;LaCrosse City Auditorium in LaCrosse.

LaCrosse blood drive set for Friday

Calling all Commercial and Food Vendors for the 2023 fair. Our indoor vendors will be open one less day this year, compared to previous years. Indoor vendors will be closing Friday evening to allow for another fair event to take place inside of the building on Saturday. Exhibits will remain open through Saturday as usual. 

If you would like a vendor contract or have questions, please message our page or visit our website. <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/681/Ellis-County-Fair?fbclid=IwAR3ILxydqvXxFlHCmCVWdHRfP_yApIXrTJh1UkBWzwt2i14Az4RPTKU5qek" target="_blank">https://www.ellisco.net/681/Ellis-County-Fair</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681912906600.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Calling all Commercial and Food Vendors for the 2023 fair. Our indoor vendors will be open one less day this year, compared to previous years. Indoor vendors will be closing Friday evening to allow for another fair event to take place inside of the building on Saturday. Exhibits will remain open through Saturday as usual. If you would like a vendor contract or have questions, please message our page or visit our website. <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/681/Ellis-County-Fair?fbclid=IwAR3ILxydqvXxFlHCmCVWdHRfP_yApIXrTJh1UkBWzwt2i14Az4RPTKU5qek" target="_blank">https://www.ellisco.net/681/Ellis-County-Fair</a>

Commercial and food vendors wanted for Ellis County Fair in July

This presentation by Jessica Rockhold, executive director of the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education, explores the history and evolution of denial and identifies contemporary distortions and misuses of the Holocaust. Her presentation will be on April 25 at 6 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681912235020.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This presentation by Jessica Rockhold, executive director of the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education, explores the history and evolution of denial and identifies contemporary distortions and misuses of the Holocaust. Her presentation will be on April 25 at 6 p.m.

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