On Wednesday, October 18 Cottonwood Extension District will be hosting&nbsp;a free Coyote Trapping and Predator Calling&nbsp;program by Wildlife Specialist Drew Ricketts starting at 6:30 p.m. 

The meeting will be held at Hays Agricultural Research Center auditorium, 1232 240th&nbsp;Avenue. &nbsp;

During his program, Ricketts  will discuss coyote biology, helping people to better understand their movements, vocalizations, and diet among other topics.&nbsp;He will also discuss tips and methods on trapping and calling coyotes including the proper use of mouth and electronic calls.&nbsp;

For further information call 785-628-9430. 

If you enjoy the outdoors, or more specifically enjoy hunting coyotes, don’t miss out on this event!&nbsp;All interested people are invited to attend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695669307417.jpeg" alt="Photo by Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOn Wednesday, October 18 Cottonwood Extension District will be hosting&nbsp;a free Coyote Trapping and Predator Calling&nbsp;program by Wildlife Specialist Drew Ricketts starting at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at Hays Agricultural Research Center auditorium, 1232 240th&nbsp;Avenue. &nbsp;During his program, Ricketts will discuss coyote biology, helping people to better understand their movements, vocalizations, and diet among other topics.&nbsp;He will also discuss tips and methods on trapping and calling coyotes including the proper use of mouth and electronic calls.&nbsp;For further information call 785-628-9430. If you enjoy the outdoors, or more specifically enjoy hunting coyotes, don’t miss out on this event!&nbsp;All interested people are invited to attend.

Free coyote trapping, predator calling program Oct. 18 in Hays

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for the city of Bunker Hill public water supply system located in Russell County. The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Laboratory testing samples collected from the city of Bunker Hill indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-483-6250 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage: <a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Consumer-Information-Regarding-a-Disrupt">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621008205705.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for the city of Bunker Hill public water supply system located in Russell County. The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.Laboratory testing samples collected from the city of Bunker Hill indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 785-483-6250 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage: <a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Consumer-Information-Regarding-a-Disrupt">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>.

Bunker Hill boil water advisory is rescinded by KDHE

Editor's note: The date for the Options 40th anniversary and tree lighting has changed to Friday,&nbsp;Oct. 6.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services will not only be observing the annual Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. It will be. celebrating 40 years of service.

Options started as a grassroots movement in the 1970s. Women were opening their own homes to provide shelter to women who were victims of domestic violence, said Jennifer Hecker, Options executive director.

One of Options' current board members was one of those people in the '70s who was providing safe haven to victims.

"What happened with those early folks is that they realized a room or space on the couch provided immediate safety, but there were so many services people needed that they did not have the capacity to give," Hecker said.&nbsp;

Through local support, including the University Women at Fort Hays State University, the Northwest Kansas Family Shelter was founded.

The name of the agency has changed over the years. Today Options offers a shelter and community services in 18 northwest Kansas counties, including a satellite office in Colby and mobile services across its coverage area.

Options will have a variety of activities beginning Sept. 22 with a Hays Chamber Chat to honor its anniversary and Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Below is a schedule of activities: • 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2 - tree lighting ceremony at Goodland Regional Medical Center • 7 p.m. Oct. 3 -&nbsp;tree lighting ceremony at Fike Park in Colby • 5:30 p.m. Oct. 5 -&nbsp;tree lighting ceremony at Russell Regional Hospital • 7 p.m. Oct. 6 -&nbsp;tree lighting ceremony followed by the 40th-anniversary celebration at Farmers Insurance, Chelsy Proehl-Kofoid Agency, 1012 Main, Hays • 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 12 - Paint the Town Purple, art therapy event, Colby Community College Student Union • 2 to 5 p.m. Oct. 15 -&nbsp; Paint the Town Purple, art therapy event, Union Pacific Park in Downtown Hays Oct. 19 - Wear Purple Day - Show your support for survivors of domestic violence by wearing purple

"Wear purple on Oct. 19 and stand in solidarity with victims who are still suffering in silence to really show there's a whole community of support out there for folks," Hecker said.

"Wear purple—purple hair, purple shirt, purple pants. Whatever you got, put it on."

Hecker said Options has five main programming elements—shelter, legal advocacy for victims, a rapid rehousing program, community support services and community advocacy. All services are free and confidential.

Options helps victims to navigate the criminal justice system if they choose to report crimes against them.

The goal of the rapid rehousing program is to get victims back into a home that is their own as soon as possible.

"Not everyone needs shelter, but they will still need services," she said of the community support program.&nbsp;

Some of the community awareness programs have included art displays, such as "Broken Brides" and "What Were You Wearing." "Broken Brides" is a display of products that a domestic violence victim might need like cream for cigarette burns.

"What Were You Wearing" is an exhibit that seeks to break the myth what victims were wearing contributed to their sexual assaults. It includes recreations and, in some instances, the exact clothing victims were wearing when they were assaulted.

Options also provides training for bar staff through the Safe Bar Alliance program. Employees learn to recognize signs of sexual predators and ways to keep customers safe.

Cut it Out teaches salon staff to recognize signs of abuse and gives them tips on how to talk to their customers about getting help.

Options can also help businesses write domestic violence policies, Hecker said.

Hecker said the number of people seeking assistance through Options has not returned to pre-pandemic levels.

"I've said this many times. I think the pandemic ripped the band-aid off of America's dirty little secret," she said. "Things happen behind closed doors, so I think it makes it really easy not to talk about it or pretend it's not happening."

The increase in the number of people seeking help to deal with domestic violence has been partially the result of an increase in the different avenues now available to access resources, Hecker said.

You can walk into an Options office at 2716 Plaza, Hays, or&nbsp;1480 W. Fourth, Colby.&nbsp; You can call Options 24-hour helpline at 1-800-794-4624 or text HOPE to 847411.

A live chat option or a virtual video conference with an advocate is available on the Options website at&nbsp;<a href="https://help4abuse.org/">https://help4abuse.org/</a>.

The website has a safe escape button that will allow you to quickly close out of the website and erase your cookies so anyone who is on the computer after you would not be able to see that you have been on the website.

Options has a free app for Android and Apple devices called "My Mobile Options."

You can donate to help the Options online at&nbsp;https://help4abuse.org/donate/.&nbsp; Donations can also be mailed to&nbsp;2716 Plaza, Hays, KS 67601.&nbsp;

In light of Options' 40th Anniversary, businesses in Hays are encouraging other businesses to donate $400 each to the organization.

"We are so grateful for the community partners who have seen the benefit to their employees or their customers and want to pay that forward," Hecker said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626112639824.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Options prepares for upcoming events" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ygxym-149e9d5-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Editor's note: The date for the Options 40th anniversary and tree lighting has changed to Friday,&nbsp;Oct. 6.By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostOptions Domestic and Sexual Violence Services will not only be observing the annual Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. It will be. celebrating 40 years of service.Options started as a grassroots movement in the 1970s. Women were opening their own homes to provide shelter to women who were victims of domestic violence, said Jennifer Hecker, Options executive director.One of Options' current board members was one of those people in the '70s who was providing safe haven to victims."What happened with those early folks is that they realized a room or space on the couch provided immediate safety, but there were so many services people needed that they did not have the capacity to give," Hecker said.&nbsp;Through local support, including the University Women at Fort Hays State University, the Northwest Kansas Family Shelter was founded.The name of the agency has changed over the years. Today Options offers a shelter and community services in 18 northwest Kansas counties, including a satellite office in Colby and mobile services across its coverage area.Options will have a variety of activities beginning Sept. 22 with a Hays Chamber Chat to honor its anniversary and Domestic Violence Awareness Month.Below is a schedule of activities: • 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2 - tree lighting ceremony at Goodland Regional Medical Center • 7 p.m. Oct. 3 -&nbsp;tree lighting ceremony at Fike Park in Colby • 5:30 p.m. Oct. 5 -&nbsp;tree lighting ceremony at Russell Regional Hospital • 7 p.m. Oct. 6 -&nbsp;tree lighting ceremony followed by the 40th-anniversary celebration at Farmers Insurance, Chelsy Proehl-Kofoid Agency, 1012 Main, Hays • 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 12 - Paint the Town Purple, art therapy event, Colby Community College Student Union • 2 to 5 p.m. Oct. 15 -&nbsp; Paint the Town Purple, art therapy event, Union Pacific Park in Downtown Hays Oct. 19 - Wear Purple Day - Show your support for survivors of domestic violence by wearing purple"Wear purple on Oct. 19 and stand in solidarity with victims who are still suffering in silence to really show there's a whole community of support out there for folks," Hecker said."Wear purple—purple hair, purple shirt, purple pants. Whatever you got, put it on."Hecker said Options has five main programming elements—shelter, legal advocacy for victims, a rapid rehousing program, community support services and community advocacy. All services are free and confidential.Options helps victims to navigate the criminal justice system if they choose to report crimes against them.The goal of the rapid rehousing program is to get victims back into a home that is their own as soon as possible."Not everyone needs shelter, but they will still need services," she said of the community support program.&nbsp;Some of the community awareness programs have included art displays, such as "Broken Brides" and "What Were You Wearing." "Broken Brides" is a display of products that a domestic violence victim might need like cream for cigarette burns."What Were You Wearing" is an exhibit that seeks to break the myth what victims were wearing contributed to their sexual assaults. It includes recreations and, in some instances, the exact clothing victims were wearing when they were assaulted.Options also provides training for bar staff through the Safe Bar Alliance program. Employees learn to recognize signs of sexual predators and ways to keep customers safe.Cut it Out teaches salon staff to recognize signs of abuse and gives them tips on how to talk to their customers about getting help.Options can also help businesses write domestic violence policies, Hecker said.Hecker said the number of people seeking assistance through Options has not returned to pre-pandemic levels."I've said this many times. I think the pandemic ripped the band-aid off of America's dirty little secret," she said. "Things happen behind closed doors, so I think it makes it really easy not to talk about it or pretend it's not happening."The increase in the number of people seeking help to deal with domestic violence has been partially the result of an increase in the different avenues now available to access resources, Hecker said.You can walk into an Options office at 2716 Plaza, Hays, or&nbsp;1480 W. Fourth, Colby.&nbsp; You can call Options 24-hour helpline at 1-800-794-4624 or text HOPE to 847411.A live chat option or a virtual video conference with an advocate is available on the Options website at&nbsp;<a href="https://help4abuse.org/">https://help4abuse.org/</a>.The website has a safe escape button that will allow you to quickly close out of the website and erase your cookies so anyone who is on the computer after you would not be able to see that you have been on the website.Options has a free app for Android and Apple devices called "My Mobile Options."You can donate to help the Options online at&nbsp;https://help4abuse.org/donate/.&nbsp; Donations can also be mailed to&nbsp;2716 Plaza, Hays, KS 67601.&nbsp;In light of Options' 40th Anniversary, businesses in Hays are encouraging other businesses to donate $400 each to the organization."We are so grateful for the community partners who have seen the benefit to their employees or their customers and want to pay that forward," Hecker said.

Options to honor 40th anniversary Friday, Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October

Crawl to End Alz, a bar crawl, is planned for Saturday, October 28 to raise awareness and funds for the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Hays.

The crawl starts at Sip N’ Spin Bar &amp; Grill at 6 p.m. and includes stops at Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro, and Market, Home Event Center, Toby Jugs, Defiance Brewing Co. Downtown, and The Fort Tavern &amp; Patio Bar.

Tickets are $25.00 and include a T-shirt, prizes, and drink specials and can be purchased at <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/crawl-to-end-alz-tickets-715630168097">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/715630168097/</a>. Tickets are on sale online until noon on the day of the event, and cash sales will also be available at the door. To receive a T-shirt, you must register by Tuesday, October 17.

Costumes are not required, but there will be a costume contest with prizes for the best group, best individual, best couple, most creative, and the best purple costume.

For more information, or if you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please find our event on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2622814071328306/?hoisted_section_header_type=recently_seen&amp;multi_permalinks=3584760821800288">Facebook</a> or contact Leigh Purdy at 785-259-7102 or leighereynolds@gmail.com.

To learn more about Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Hays or how you can host a fundraiser to support Walk to End Alzheimer’s, please contact Missy Zimmer at 316-267-7333 ext 1188 or mpzimmer@alz.org.

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit <a href="https://www.alz.org/?ver=b">www.alz.org</a> or call 800-272-3900.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694785630013.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedJoin us for a spooktacular event!Crawl to End Alz, a bar crawl, is planned for Saturday, October 28 to raise awareness and funds for the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Hays.The crawl starts at Sip N’ Spin Bar &amp; Grill at 6 p.m. and includes stops at Paisley Pear Wine Bar, Bistro, and Market, Home Event Center, Toby Jugs, Defiance Brewing Co. Downtown, and The Fort Tavern &amp; Patio Bar.Tickets are $25.00 and include a T-shirt, prizes, and drink specials and can be purchased at <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/crawl-to-end-alz-tickets-715630168097">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/715630168097/</a>. Tickets are on sale online until noon on the day of the event, and cash sales will also be available at the door. To receive a T-shirt, you must register by Tuesday, October 17.Costumes are not required, but there will be a costume contest with prizes for the best group, best individual, best couple, most creative, and the best purple costume.For more information, or if you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please find our event on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2622814071328306/?hoisted_section_header_type=recently_seen&amp;multi_permalinks=3584760821800288">Facebook</a> or contact Leigh Purdy at 785-259-7102 or leighereynolds@gmail.com.To learn more about Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Hays or how you can host a fundraiser to support Walk to End Alzheimer’s, please contact Missy Zimmer at 316-267-7333 ext 1188 or mpzimmer@alz.org.About the Alzheimer’s AssociationThe Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit <a href="https://www.alz.org/?ver=b">www.alz.org</a> or call 800-272-3900.

Crawl to end Alzheimer's in Hays Oct. 28

LOGAN — The Hansen Museum in Logan is pleased to announce the 47th annual "Birds in Art" exhibition, on view now through November 5.

Organized annually since 1976 by the world-renown Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum in Wausau, Wisconsin, the juried exhibition has featured thousands of artists from around the world and is widely recognized as one of the best showcasing avian art. 

For the 2022 show, 570 artists submitted 946 works, with 118 selected by the three-person jury for inclusion, fifty of which made the trip to the Hansen Museum as part of the traveling exhibition. 

A fully illustrated, color catalog accompanies each Birds in Art exhibition and is available upon request. This exhibit is one of the most prestigious exhibits of wildlife art in the world.

“Birds in Art” is replete with birds strutting, vocalizing, socializing, preening, and soaring. Majestic yet fragile, birds connect us with the natural world. Heralding each sunrise and gathering at dusk, these harbingers of seasonal and environmental change endlessly fascinate and inspire. 

The 2022 exhibition includes 23 master artists and 33 international artists, representing 15 different countries. 

The exhibition includes various mediums: paintings in watercolor, oil, and acrylic; sculptures in stone, wood, and bronze; drawings in graphite, pastel, chalk, and charcoal; and other categories such as serigraphy, woodcut, linocut, and etching. This exhibition is a collection of the very best avian artists in the world and will remain on view through November 5 at the Hansen Museum.

The museum is open Monday through Friday 9-12 and 1-4; Saturdays 9-12 and 1-5; Sundays and holidays 1-5. We are closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. We are handicapped accessible, and admission is always free thanks to the generous support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information or if you have questions, please contact us at 785-689-4846.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695676170035.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLOGAN — The Hansen Museum in Logan is pleased to announce the 47th annual "Birds in Art" exhibition, on view now through November 5.Organized annually since 1976 by the world-renown Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum in Wausau, Wisconsin, the juried exhibition has featured thousands of artists from around the world and is widely recognized as one of the best showcasing avian art. For the 2022 show, 570 artists submitted 946 works, with 118 selected by the three-person jury for inclusion, fifty of which made the trip to the Hansen Museum as part of the traveling exhibition. A fully illustrated, color catalog accompanies each Birds in Art exhibition and is available upon request. This exhibit is one of the most prestigious exhibits of wildlife art in the world.“Birds in Art” is replete with birds strutting, vocalizing, socializing, preening, and soaring. Majestic yet fragile, birds connect us with the natural world. Heralding each sunrise and gathering at dusk, these harbingers of seasonal and environmental change endlessly fascinate and inspire. The 2022 exhibition includes 23 master artists and 33 international artists, representing 15 different countries. The exhibition includes various mediums: paintings in watercolor, oil, and acrylic; sculptures in stone, wood, and bronze; drawings in graphite, pastel, chalk, and charcoal; and other categories such as serigraphy, woodcut, linocut, and etching. This exhibition is a collection of the very best avian artists in the world and will remain on view through November 5 at the Hansen Museum.The museum is open Monday through Friday 9-12 and 1-4; Saturdays 9-12 and 1-5; Sundays and holidays 1-5. We are closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. We are handicapped accessible, and admission is always free thanks to the generous support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information or if you have questions, please contact us at 785-689-4846.

Exhibition showcasing best avian art opens at Hansen Museum

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696435978491.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted

Handmade crafts boutique Saturday in Hays to benefit Your Voice Through Cancer

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The calendar has turned the page into the full fall season.

Melissa Dixon, executive director of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, takes a look at just some of the activities and events to enjoy this month.

An up-to-the-minute event calendar is on the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575300742886.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe calendar has turned the page into the full fall season.Melissa Dixon, executive director of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, takes a look at just some of the activities and events to enjoy this month.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JxUypmb8wxs"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An up-to-the-minute event calendar is on the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696435475197.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥 CVB: October brings fall activities to Hays

Fundraiser Oct. 22 in Hays for Mason's Mourning Light Foundation

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)&nbsp;is holding public meetings to help public water supply systems and their customers learn about the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new Lead and Cooper Rule Revisions (LCRR). Under the LCRR, public water supply systems are required to prepare and maintain an inventory of publicly and privately owned service line materials. This inventory is to be submitted to KDHE by October 16, 2024.

Public water supply system decision-makers, operators and the public are encouraged to attend to learn more about the inventory requirements and actions that can be taken to reduce lead exposure risks in drinking water.&nbsp;

Piping and plumbing fixtures containing lead are a potential health risk in drinking water. Some homes (typically built before 1988) may have lead service lines that connect to the public water supply system. Young children, infants and fetuses are particularly vulnerable to lead in drinking water and water used for formula because lead's physical and behavioral health effects occur at lower exposure levels in children.

KDHE staff will review and answer questions on the following topics:

A meeting will be held in Hays 7-8 p.m. Thursday at Hilton Garden Inn, 221 W. 43rd.&nbsp;

For more information about KDHE’s Lead Service Line Inventory requirements, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzU0Ny9MZWFkLUNvcHBlci1SdWxlP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MjcuODMyMTQ4NDEifQ.229ck07j-AM6RARAXlOW17v9G3fO4sXBNrP27-K60bM/s/1305914033/br/226900474863-l" target="_blank">KDHE.KS.gov/LCRR</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621008205705.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)&nbsp;is holding public meetings to help public water supply systems and their customers learn about the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new Lead and Cooper Rule Revisions (LCRR). Under the LCRR, public water supply systems are required to prepare and maintain an inventory of publicly and privately owned service line materials. This inventory is to be submitted to KDHE by October 16, 2024.Public water supply system decision-makers, operators and the public are encouraged to attend to learn more about the inventory requirements and actions that can be taken to reduce lead exposure risks in drinking water.&nbsp;Piping and plumbing fixtures containing lead are a potential health risk in drinking water. Some homes (typically built before 1988) may have lead service lines that connect to the public water supply system. Young children, infants and fetuses are particularly vulnerable to lead in drinking water and water used for formula because lead's physical and behavioral health effects occur at lower exposure levels in children.KDHE staff will review and answer questions on the following topics:<ol>
 <li>Development of Lead Service Line InventoriesPublic Water Supply System ResponsibilitiesWater System Customer Cooperation</li><li>Public Water Supply System Responsibilities</li><li>Water System Customer Cooperation</li><li>Lead Exposure Health Risks from Drinking Water</li><li>Technical Assistance for Public Water Supply Systems</li>
 </ol>A meeting will be held in Hays 7-8 p.m. Thursday at Hilton Garden Inn, 221 W. 43rd.&nbsp;For more information about KDHE’s Lead Service Line Inventory requirements, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzU0Ny9MZWFkLUNvcHBlci1SdWxlP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MjcuODMyMTQ4NDEifQ.229ck07j-AM6RARAXlOW17v9G3fO4sXBNrP27-K60bM/s/1305914033/br/226900474863-l" target="_blank">KDHE.KS.gov/LCRR</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays to host meeting Thursday for KDHE public water supply lead, copper rules

KIRWIN — Kirwin’s 92nd “Old Settlers Day” is Saturday, Oct. 7.&nbsp;

• 5K Run and Walk&nbsp; • “Take a Ride on the Wild Side” 6,16, or 30-mile bike ride around Kirwin Reservoir&nbsp; • Parade, followed by Games on the Square, Bingo, Cornhole Tournament and Horse Show&nbsp; • Demo Derby at 7 with $3,500 total purse. Admission is just $10 with ages 10 and under free.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695746123078.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted KIRWIN — Kirwin’s 92nd “Old Settlers Day” is Saturday, Oct. 7.&nbsp;The day includes:&nbsp;• 5K Run and Walk&nbsp; • “Take a Ride on the Wild Side” 6,16, or 30-mile bike ride around Kirwin Reservoir&nbsp; • Parade, followed by Games on the Square, Bingo, Cornhole Tournament and Horse Show&nbsp; • Demo Derby at 7 with $3,500 total purse. Admission is just $10 with ages 10 and under free.

92nd Old Settler's Day in Kirwin is Saturday, Oct. 7

The Kansas Department of Transportation is hosting nine meetings across the state in October as part of the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE) Local Consult process. KDOT holds Local Consult meetings every two years to discuss regional transportation project priorities with Kansans.

Attendees will have an opportunity to share their region’s transportation priorities, hear about investments being made in transportation in their area and learn about various grant funding programs available through KDOT.

These meetings are an important step in collecting public input for the IKE program – the state’s current 10-year transportation improvement program. They are open to all Kansans.

Local Consult locations, dates and times:

• Northeast Region (KDOT District 1)&nbsp;– Tuesday, Oct. 3, 9 a.m. – noon, Four Points by Sheraton in Manhattan.&nbsp;

• Southwest Region (KDOT District 6)&nbsp;– Wednesday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m. – noon, Clarion Inn in Garden City.&nbsp;

•South Central Region (KDOT District 5)&nbsp;– Thursday, Oct. 5., 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Merdian Center in Newton.&nbsp;

•&nbsp;Northwest Region (KDOT District 3)&nbsp;– Tuesday, Oct. 10, 9 a.m. – noon, Hilton Garden Inn in Hays.&nbsp;

• North Central Region (KDOT District 2)&nbsp;– Wednesday, Oct. 11, 9 a.m. – noon, Hilton Garden Inn in Salina.&nbsp;

• Southeast Region (KDOT District 4)&nbsp;– Thursday, Oct. 12, 9 a.m. – noon, Bowlus Fine Arts Center in Iola.&nbsp;

• KC Metro&nbsp;– Tuesday, Oct. 17, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., Lenexa Hyatt Place Kansas City/Lenexa City Center in Lenexa.&nbsp;

• Wichita Metro&nbsp;– Wednesday, Oct. 18, 9 a.m. – noon, WSU Eugene M. Hughes Metropolitan Complex in Wichita.&nbsp;

•&nbsp;Virtual Meeting&nbsp;– Tuesday, Oct. 24, 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. For those unable to attend an in-person meeting, they may attend a virtual meeting on Zoom. Please register here&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMvf-uppjMsHdaOpjIXnRlJQV-xQrcEpb1A" target="_blank">https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMvf-uppjMsHdaOpjIXnRlJQV-xQrcEpb1A</a>&nbsp;

More information about the Local Consult process is available online at:&nbsp;<a href="https://ike.ksdot.gov/projects/local-consult-process" target="_blank">ike.ksdot.gov/local-consult-process</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695911236985.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation is hosting nine meetings across the state in October as part of the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE) Local Consult process. KDOT holds Local Consult meetings every two years to discuss regional transportation project priorities with Kansans.Attendees will have an opportunity to share their region’s transportation priorities, hear about investments being made in transportation in their area and learn about various grant funding programs available through KDOT.These meetings are an important step in collecting public input for the IKE program – the state’s current 10-year transportation improvement program. They are open to all Kansans.Local Consult locations, dates and times:• Northeast Region (KDOT District 1)&nbsp;– Tuesday, Oct. 3, 9 a.m. – noon, Four Points by Sheraton in Manhattan.&nbsp;• Southwest Region (KDOT District 6)&nbsp;– Wednesday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m. – noon, Clarion Inn in Garden City.&nbsp;•South Central Region (KDOT District 5)&nbsp;– Thursday, Oct. 5., 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Merdian Center in Newton.&nbsp;•&nbsp;Northwest Region (KDOT District 3)&nbsp;– Tuesday, Oct. 10, 9 a.m. – noon, Hilton Garden Inn in Hays.&nbsp;• North Central Region (KDOT District 2)&nbsp;– Wednesday, Oct. 11, 9 a.m. – noon, Hilton Garden Inn in Salina.&nbsp;• Southeast Region (KDOT District 4)&nbsp;– Thursday, Oct. 12, 9 a.m. – noon, Bowlus Fine Arts Center in Iola.&nbsp;• KC Metro&nbsp;– Tuesday, Oct. 17, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., Lenexa Hyatt Place Kansas City/Lenexa City Center in Lenexa.&nbsp;• Wichita Metro&nbsp;– Wednesday, Oct. 18, 9 a.m. – noon, WSU Eugene M. Hughes Metropolitan Complex in Wichita.&nbsp;•&nbsp;Virtual Meeting&nbsp;– Tuesday, Oct. 24, 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. For those unable to attend an in-person meeting, they may attend a virtual meeting on Zoom. Please register here&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMvf-uppjMsHdaOpjIXnRlJQV-xQrcEpb1A" target="_blank">https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMvf-uppjMsHdaOpjIXnRlJQV-xQrcEpb1A</a>&nbsp;More information about the Local Consult process is available online at:&nbsp;<a href="https://ike.ksdot.gov/projects/local-consult-process" target="_blank">ike.ksdot.gov/local-consult-process</a>.&nbsp;

Hays to host KDOT Local Consult meeting for northwest Kansas

The Hays USD 489 will have a special board meeting at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Rockwell Administration Center.

The board will vote on the Nabholz guaranteed maximum price contract for the construction of the new Hays High School and renovations and an addition to Roosevelt Elementary School.

The price for those two projects are listed below.

The Hays USD 489 will have a special board meeting at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Rockwell Administration Center.The board will vote on the Nabholz guaranteed maximum price contract for the construction of the new Hays High School and renovations and an addition to Roosevelt Elementary School.The price for those two projects are listed below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696378771545.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays USD 489 school board sets special meeting for Wednesday

WACONDA — It’s the 8th&nbsp;annual Wakonda Indian Festival on Saturday, October 7 at Glen Elder State Park from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.&nbsp; There will be award winning native American dancers, traditional native food, a teepee set up, and native silver jewelry and artwork.&nbsp; 

To see a schedule of events at the Wakonda Indian Festival, go to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064358155147">Waconda Cultural Association</a> Facebook pages, or call 785-738-8035.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695744337497.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedWACONDA — It’s the 8th&nbsp;annual Wakonda Indian Festival on Saturday, October 7 at Glen Elder State Park from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.&nbsp; There will be award winning native American dancers, traditional native food, a teepee set up, and native silver jewelry and artwork.&nbsp; To see a schedule of events at the Wakonda Indian Festival, go to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064358155147">Waconda Cultural Association</a> Facebook pages, or call 785-738-8035.

Wakonda Indian Festival is Oct. 7 at Glen Elder State Park 

Special Olympics Kansas is seeking volunteers for its West Region Bowling Tournament on Oct. 21 in Hays.

The organization needs 72 volunteers and has a majority of those slots left to fill.

Click on this link&nbsp;<a href="https://givepulse.com/event/381988-West-Regional-Bowling-Hays?fbclid=IwAR1F1g3M89-YqrbSlz1iYyYw7mkZ_yNrqPSA2J4z5GLhcaxP3m9ZdmKkpGk" target="_blank">givepulse.com/event/381988-West-Regional-Bowling-Hays</a>&nbsp;to sign up.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696367932529.png" alt="West Bowling Volunteer Flyer (1).png" />
 <figcaption>West Bowling Volunteer Flyer (1).png</figcaption>
 </figure>Special Olympics Kansas is seeking volunteers for its West Region Bowling Tournament on Oct. 21 in Hays.The organization needs 72 volunteers and has a majority of those slots left to fill.Click on this link&nbsp;<a href="https://givepulse.com/event/381988-West-Regional-Bowling-Hays?fbclid=IwAR1F1g3M89-YqrbSlz1iYyYw7mkZ_yNrqPSA2J4z5GLhcaxP3m9ZdmKkpGk" target="_blank">givepulse.com/event/381988-West-Regional-Bowling-Hays</a>&nbsp;to sign up.

Special Olympics seeks volunteers for bowling tournament in Hays

This week at TMP-M is Military Appreciation, and we would like to give thanks to all active duty and former military members along with all SJMA Cadets. 

We would like to invite all SJMA cadets and military personnel to join us for a delicious meal alongside Coach Stephenson and the rest of the Monarch football team in the TMP-M cafeteria at 6 p.m. on Thursday, October 5. After the meal please stick around for the presentation of special SJMA Cadet jerseys. If you are planning on attending please fill out the RSVP link below.

Also due to a rule change, we had to purchase new SJMA jerseys to be worn on Military Appreciation Night. We are hosting an auction for the game-worn SJMA Jerseys. Please feel free to bid high and bid often, as the proceeds from the auction go toward replacing the jerseys and the Victory Gates restoration fund. The auction will close on Friday, October 6 at 11:59 p.m. Winners of the auction will be contacted on Monday, October 9 for pickup or delivery options.&nbsp;

On Friday, October 6, we invite all Cadets and military personnel to be recognized on the field at half-time. All cadets and military personnel will get into the game free of charge just by mentioning it at the gate.&nbsp;

<a href="https://eml-pusa01.app.blackbaud.net/intv2/j/DD6939E2-F094-4CF2-8BC5-87FDEA5890CF/r/DD6939E2-F094-4CF2-8BC5-87FDEA5890CF_599c2405-f896-4518-9c24-6ad6dc69743c/l/29CCB589-83AB-4E16-BEC0-A860B84EF09F/c" target="_blank">RSVP FOR DINNER HERE:</a>

<a href="https://eml-pusa01.app.blackbaud.net/intv2/j/DD6939E2-F094-4CF2-8BC5-87FDEA5890CF/r/DD6939E2-F094-4CF2-8BC5-87FDEA5890CF_599c2405-f896-4518-9c24-6ad6dc69743c/l/1D5B45D3-EB3B-4D6A-A693-0E12059A6B6B/c" target="_blank">SJMA JERSEY AUCTION LINK:</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696342329028.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThis week at TMP-M is Military Appreciation, and we would like to give thanks to all active duty and former military members along with all SJMA Cadets. We would like to invite all SJMA cadets and military personnel to join us for a delicious meal alongside Coach Stephenson and the rest of the Monarch football team in the TMP-M cafeteria at 6 p.m. on Thursday, October 5. After the meal please stick around for the presentation of special SJMA Cadet jerseys. If you are planning on attending please fill out the RSVP link below.Also due to a rule change, we had to purchase new SJMA jerseys to be worn on Military Appreciation Night. We are hosting an auction for the game-worn SJMA Jerseys. Please feel free to bid high and bid often, as the proceeds from the auction go toward replacing the jerseys and the Victory Gates restoration fund. The auction will close on Friday, October 6 at 11:59 p.m. Winners of the auction will be contacted on Monday, October 9 for pickup or delivery options.&nbsp;On Friday, October 6, we invite all Cadets and military personnel to be recognized on the field at half-time. All cadets and military personnel will get into the game free of charge just by mentioning it at the gate.&nbsp;<a href="https://eml-pusa01.app.blackbaud.net/intv2/j/DD6939E2-F094-4CF2-8BC5-87FDEA5890CF/r/DD6939E2-F094-4CF2-8BC5-87FDEA5890CF_599c2405-f896-4518-9c24-6ad6dc69743c/l/29CCB589-83AB-4E16-BEC0-A860B84EF09F/c" target="_blank">RSVP FOR DINNER HERE:</a><a href="https://eml-pusa01.app.blackbaud.net/intv2/j/DD6939E2-F094-4CF2-8BC5-87FDEA5890CF/r/DD6939E2-F094-4CF2-8BC5-87FDEA5890CF_599c2405-f896-4518-9c24-6ad6dc69743c/l/1D5B45D3-EB3B-4D6A-A693-0E12059A6B6B/c" target="_blank">SJMA JERSEY AUCTION LINK:</a>

9th annual Military Appreciation Night at TMP-M is this week

LOGAN — The Hansen Museum takes great pride in hosting a two-day watercolor painting workshop with Laurie Albin at the Hansen Museum, 110 W. Main, Logan.&nbsp;This workshop will run from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on October 5 and 6,  with a lunch break each day.

&nbsp;Join instructor Laurie Albin as she introduces watercolor techniques for beginners and goes ‘beyond the basics’ for the intermediate painter. Instruction will be geared for each participant’s personal growth during this two-day workshop. 

Come enjoy a fun learning environment where ideas are shared in a positive and fun setting.

Instructor Laurie Albin is a Kansas Watercolor Society Signature member and has been painting watercolors for more than 40 years. Laurie is an experienced instructor. For ten years, she had a teaching studio in WaKeeney and worked as a public-school art instructor for many years. 

To view Laurie’s art, go to <a href="https://www.albinstudio.com/">www.albinstudio.com</a>.

Pre-registration is required. Call the museum to register or find the registration form on our website (<a href="http://hansenmuseum.org/">hansenmuseum.org</a>) under Classes &amp; Workshops. The cost for registration is $120.00. Discounts are available for Patron and Sustaining Hansen Museum Members.

This enjoyable learning opportunity is brought to you through the Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program, underwritten by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. 

For more information, please call 785-689-4846.

The museum is open weekdays 9-12 and 1-4; Saturdays 9-12 and 1-5; Sundays and holidays 1-5. We are closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The museum is handicap-accessible and thanks to the generosity of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, there is never an admission fee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695674964235.png" alt="'Rise Above'&nbsp; by Laura Albin" />
 <figcaption>'Rise Above'&nbsp; by Laura Albin</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLOGAN — The Hansen Museum takes great pride in hosting a two-day watercolor painting workshop with Laurie Albin at the Hansen Museum, 110 W. Main, Logan.&nbsp;This workshop will run from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on October 5 and 6, with a lunch break each day.&nbsp;Join instructor Laurie Albin as she introduces watercolor techniques for beginners and goes ‘beyond the basics’ for the intermediate painter. Instruction will be geared for each participant’s personal growth during this two-day workshop. Come enjoy a fun learning environment where ideas are shared in a positive and fun setting.Instructor Laurie Albin is a Kansas Watercolor Society Signature member and has been painting watercolors for more than 40 years. Laurie is an experienced instructor. For ten years, she had a teaching studio in WaKeeney and worked as a public-school art instructor for many years. To view Laurie’s art, go to <a href="https://www.albinstudio.com/">www.albinstudio.com</a>.Pre-registration is required. Call the museum to register or find the registration form on our website (<a href="http://hansenmuseum.org/">hansenmuseum.org</a>) under Classes &amp; Workshops. The cost for registration is $120.00. Discounts are available for Patron and Sustaining Hansen Museum Members.This enjoyable learning opportunity is brought to you through the Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program, underwritten by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information, please call 785-689-4846.The museum is open weekdays 9-12 and 1-4; Saturdays 9-12 and 1-5; Sundays and holidays 1-5. We are closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The museum is handicap-accessible and thanks to the generosity of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, there is never an admission fee.

Watercolor painting workshop with Laurie Albin upcoming at Hansen Museum

Enter to win Cash Grab

BUNKER HILL — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for the city of Bunker Hill public water supply system located in Russell County.

KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on October 2 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670076172058.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHE BUNKER HILL — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for the city of Bunker Hill public water supply system located in Russell County.KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.</li><li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on October 2 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved.&nbsp;

Boil water advisory issued for Bunker Hill by KDHE

Awesome Osborne County events to enjoy in October

The successes of tomorrow begin today, Catholic education is a lifetime advantage.

Catholic schools...schools you can believe in.

SubmittedThe successes of tomorrow begin today, Catholic education is a lifetime advantage.Catholic schools...schools you can believe in.Monday<ol>
 <li>Memorial of The Holy Guardian Angels. </li><li>School Custodian Appreciation Day.</li>
 </ol>Tuesday<ol>
 <li>We will have a Fire Drill with the Hays Fire Dept. this afternoon at 2:45 p.m.</li>
 </ol>Wednesday<ol>
 <li>Spirit Day! </li><li>Memorial of St. Francis of Assisi.</li><li>4th Grade Ag Day. </li><li>Pet Blessing today at 2:40 p.m. in the playground parking lot. Students are welcome to bring a stuffed furry friend or a photo of a pet out to the blessing if their parents aren’t able to bring their pets up.</li>
 </ol>Thursday<ol>
 <li>Memorial of St. Faustina Kowalska &amp; St. Francis Xavier Seelos, Priest. </li>
 </ol>Friday<ol>
 <li>	Memorial of St. Bruno, Priest &amp; St. Marie Rose Durocher.</li><li>This morning we’ll have our first “First Friday Prayer Circles” for the school year. After announcements, please take attendance and lunch count, and then we will come back over the intercom to play some music as your students start walking to their circle location. 5th graders will come down to collect the Kindergarten students and walk with them! </li><li>3rd Gr. Fire Safety Poster contest talk will be at 10:00 a.m.</li>
 </ol>

Holy Family Elementary weekly update

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Starting September 25, you can order four free test kits per household through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covid.gov/tests">COVIDtests.gov</a>.

The tests will detect the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/sars-cov-2-viral-mutations-impact-covid-19-tests">currently circulating COVID-19 variants</a>&nbsp;and are intended for use through the end of 2023. The kits will include&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/home-otc-covid-19-diagnostic-tests#list">instructions on how to verify extended expiration dates</a>.&nbsp;Many kits have had their expiration dates extended beyond what may be printed on the packaging.

You don’t have to pay for shipping, and you’ll never be asked for a credit card or bank account number. You only need to give a name and shipping address. If you’d like an email confirmation and delivery updates from the U.S. Postal Service, you can submit your email address.&nbsp;Anyone who asks for more information than that is a scammer.&nbsp;

• Only go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covidtests.gov/" target="_blank">COVIDtests.gov</a>&nbsp;to order your free test kits from the federal government. When you click to order, you’ll be redirected to&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fspecial.usps.com%2Ftestkits&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2022%2F01%2Fits-official-get-free-covid-test-kits-covidtestsgov" target="_blank">special.usps.com/testkits</a>. If you’re following a link from a news story, double-check the URL that shows in your browser’s address bar.&nbsp;

• No one will call, text, or email you from the federal government to ask for your information to “help” you order free kits. Don’t give out your credit card, bank account, or Social Security number. Do not respond. Instead, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/" target="_blank">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695743544779.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FTCWASHINGTON, D.C. — Starting September 25, you can order four free test kits per household through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covid.gov/tests">COVIDtests.gov</a>.The tests will detect the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/sars-cov-2-viral-mutations-impact-covid-19-tests">currently circulating COVID-19 variants</a>&nbsp;and are intended for use through the end of 2023. The kits will include&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-covid-19-and-medical-devices/home-otc-covid-19-diagnostic-tests#list">instructions on how to verify extended expiration dates</a>.&nbsp;Many kits have had their expiration dates extended beyond what may be printed on the packaging.You don’t have to pay for shipping, and you’ll never be asked for a credit card or bank account number. You only need to give a name and shipping address. If you’d like an email confirmation and delivery updates from the U.S. Postal Service, you can submit your email address.&nbsp;Anyone who asks for more information than that is a scammer.&nbsp;So, remember:• Only go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.covidtests.gov/" target="_blank">COVIDtests.gov</a>&nbsp;to order your free test kits from the federal government. When you click to order, you’ll be redirected to&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fspecial.usps.com%2Ftestkits&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2022%2F01%2Fits-official-get-free-covid-test-kits-covidtestsgov" target="_blank">special.usps.com/testkits</a>. If you’re following a link from a news story, double-check the URL that shows in your browser’s address bar.&nbsp;• No one will call, text, or email you from the federal government to ask for your information to “help” you order free kits. Don’t give out your credit card, bank account, or Social Security number. Do not respond. Instead, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/" target="_blank">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;

FTC: Free COVID test kits are back: Here’s how to get yours

RUSSELL – Russell Community Theater's fall production of "Vino Veritas" will be the organization’s 106th production. "Vino Veritas", by David MacGregor&nbsp; is presented with special permission by Playscripts. Performances are October 17-21, 2023, with curtain at 8 p.m., in the RCT Playhouse, 5th and Kansas, Russell.

Casting has been completed and rehearsals are underway to bring you a quality theater experience.

On Halloween night, two couples, Lauren and Phil (Becky Anschutz and Dalton Mauro, respectively), and their neighbors, Ridley and Claire (Dalton Davis and Cat Webling, respectively), meet at Lauren and Phil’s house for drinks and hors d'oeuvres before planning on heading out to a massive party. 

Dressed in their finest costumes (witch, cowboy, doctor, and Queen Elizabeth I), the hostess, Lauren, brings out a bottle of blue wine she picked up in Peru. Based on an old Incan recipe, the wine supposedly has truth-telling properties and is brewed from the skins of blue dart tree frogs. 

Three of the four drink the wine and the conversation begins to take odd turns. Some of the "truths" are harmless enough, but progressively get darker and more disturbing. It gradually becomes clear that the marriage of one of the couples is disintegrating due to a lack of truthfulness, and the other marriage is only held together by lies.

This insightful and thought-provoking play will leave you thinking long after it’s over.

Russell Community Theater is a non-profit theater company in Russell, Kansas. The sole purpose of RCT is to produce theater for the community and the surrounding area. Completely volunteer driven, RCT is supported financially solely through ticket admissions and gifts from those supportive of community theater. Since its inception in 1986, RCT has presented 105 full-scale theatrical productions.

For more information, call 785-483-4057. Find us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/russelltheater">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695218843764.jpeg" alt="Dalton Mauro, Becky Anschutz, Dalton Davis, Cat Webling. Photo by Charissa Roe" />
 <figcaption>Dalton Mauro, Becky Anschutz, Dalton Davis, Cat Webling. Photo by Charissa Roe</figcaption>
 </figure>RCTRUSSELL – Russell Community Theater's fall production of "Vino Veritas" will be the organization’s 106th production. "Vino Veritas", by David MacGregor&nbsp; is presented with special permission by Playscripts. Performances are October 17-21, 2023, with curtain at 8 p.m., in the RCT Playhouse, 5th and Kansas, Russell.Casting has been completed and rehearsals are underway to bring you a quality theater experience.On Halloween night, two couples, Lauren and Phil (Becky Anschutz and Dalton Mauro, respectively), and their neighbors, Ridley and Claire (Dalton Davis and Cat Webling, respectively), meet at Lauren and Phil’s house for drinks and hors d'oeuvres before planning on heading out to a massive party. Dressed in their finest costumes (witch, cowboy, doctor, and Queen Elizabeth I), the hostess, Lauren, brings out a bottle of blue wine she picked up in Peru. Based on an old Incan recipe, the wine supposedly has truth-telling properties and is brewed from the skins of blue dart tree frogs. Three of the four drink the wine and the conversation begins to take odd turns. Some of the "truths" are harmless enough, but progressively get darker and more disturbing. It gradually becomes clear that the marriage of one of the couples is disintegrating due to a lack of truthfulness, and the other marriage is only held together by lies.This insightful and thought-provoking play will leave you thinking long after it’s over.**Adult themes and language present**Russell Community Theater is a non-profit theater company in Russell, Kansas. The sole purpose of RCT is to produce theater for the community and the surrounding area. Completely volunteer driven, RCT is supported financially solely through ticket admissions and gifts from those supportive of community theater. Since its inception in 1986, RCT has presented 105 full-scale theatrical productions. For more information, call 785-483-4057. Find us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/russelltheater">Facebook</a>.

Russell Community Theater fall production cast announcement

RUSSELL — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has placed Fossil Lake in Russell under a harmful algal bloom warning. Exposure through contact or ingestion can cause illness in animals and humans. 

Boating on Fossil Lake is prohibited until further notice.

According to KDHE, a harmful algae bloom means:

• Water is unsafe for humans or animals. • Avoid all contact with water. • Do not let pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water. • If fish are caught, clean well with potable water and eat the fillet portion only.

For more information on the risk of Harmful Algae Blooms, visit: <a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/796/Health-Risks-Associated-with-HABs">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/796/Health-Risks-Associated-with-HABs&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696004239863.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>City of RussellRUSSELL — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has placed Fossil Lake in Russell under a harmful algal bloom warning. Exposure through contact or ingestion can cause illness in animals and humans. Boating on Fossil Lake is prohibited until further notice.According to KDHE, a harmful algae bloom means:• Water is unsafe for humans or animals. • Avoid all contact with water. • Do not let pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water. • If fish are caught, clean well with potable water and eat the fillet portion only.For more information on the risk of Harmful Algae Blooms, visit: <a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/796/Health-Risks-Associated-with-HABs">https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/796/Health-Risks-Associated-with-HABs&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

Announcements