THE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS….SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!!!

Feast of St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist. Red Wheel packets are due TODAY – teachers please bring your student packets to the office or send with your messenger this morning!

Mass was prepared by 4B and celebrated by Fr. Damian.

Memorial of St. Pius, Priest. Spirit Day! Finance &amp; Development Mtg. 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;

Mass was prepared by 3A and celebrated by Fr. Nick. FALL PICTURE DAY today in the Gym upstairs. A volunteer will come collect your class when they’re ready for you. Students can line up in their normal cohorts, but please remain spaced apart as you wait in line in the gym. Students also need to bring their picture packets with them if their parents ordered using the envelope.

TMP Homecoming Bonfire at dusk around 7:30 p.m. at TMP.

Hourly staff timesheets are due to Karla in the office this morning. TMP Homecoming Football Game at 7:00 p.m. and the Homecoming King &amp; Queen will be announced at Halftime! GO MONARCHS!&nbsp;

SubmittedTHE SUCCESSES OF TOMORROW BEGIN TODAY, CATHOLIC EDUCATION IS A LIFETIME ADVANTAGE.CATHOLIC SCHOOLS….SCHOOLS YOU CAN BELIEVE IN!!!MONDAYFeast of St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist. Red Wheel packets are due TODAY – teachers please bring your student packets to the office or send with your messenger this morning!TUESDAYMass was prepared by 4B and celebrated by Fr. Damian.WEDNESDAYMemorial of St. Pius, Priest. Spirit Day! Finance &amp; Development Mtg. 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;THURSDAYMass was prepared by 3A and celebrated by Fr. Nick. FALL PICTURE DAY today in the Gym upstairs. A volunteer will come collect your class when they’re ready for you. Students can line up in their normal cohorts, but please remain spaced apart as you wait in line in the gym. Students also need to bring their picture packets with them if their parents ordered using the envelope.TMP Homecoming Bonfire at dusk around 7:30 p.m. at TMP.FRIDAYHourly staff timesheets are due to Karla in the office this morning. TMP Homecoming Football Game at 7:00 p.m. and the Homecoming King &amp; Queen will be announced at Halftime! GO MONARCHS!&nbsp;<figure>
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Holy Family Elementary weekly update

MANHATTAN —A comprehensive review of 120 national research projects spanning 40 years finds the keys to teacher retention — including early-career educators and those in hard-to-staff areas such as special needs and STEM fields — are in incentive and support programs. Equally substantive, the meta-analysis disproved the long-held connection between performance evaluations and teacher attrition. 

Tuan D. Nguyen, a Kansas State University&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Education</a>&nbsp;assistant professor, led the research team that recently published&nbsp;"<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1747938X19305597" target="_blank">The Correlates of Teacher Turnover: An Updated and Expanded Meta-Analysis of the Literature</a>" in Educational Research Review, which is ranked second among educational research journals.

The meta-analysis offered new insights, identified underexamined factors and illuminated the connections between educational policy and teacher turnover.

"This crucial study examined the evidence on what drove teachers to quit the profession or move from one school to another," Nguyen said. "It has far-reaching implications for policymakers and school administrators who are committed to reducing teacher turnover."

The researchers discovered substantial evidence that improving school organizational characteristics, such as reducing student disciplinary problems, improving administrative support and supporting teacher collaborations, may reduce the risk of turnover. Moreover, despite some concerns of&nbsp;potential negative consequences&nbsp;of teacher evaluation and accountability from policymakers and educators, the data did not indicate that performance evaluations increase teacher attrition.

To the contrary, their research suggested that when teachers are evaluated and the results of their evaluations or measures of effectiveness are made available, teachers are not more likely to turn over. In fact, the evidence indicated that teachers may be enticed to stay as they are provided with some urgency, sense of empowerment and evidence of areas for professional improvement. This held true even when teacher evaluations were used to determine accountability and pay raises.

Relatedly, substantial evidence emerged that teachers in merit-based pay programs were less likely to leave teaching than those who were not. This was important as the researchers also found evaluation and accountability policies tended to be associated with keeping the most effective teachers and removing the least effective teachers — as measured by value-added scores.

In short, Nguyen said, evaluation and strategic compensation reforms may be leveraged to improve the composition of the teacher workforce. Increasing teacher salary was also associated with improving teacher retention, but this effect was smaller in comparison to merit pay and retention bonuses.

"We'd like policymakers and administrators to understand that while there may be warranted concerns about teacher evaluation and accountability policies, they are more positively perceived by some teachers and have more beneficial effects than previously recognized," Nguyen said. "These factors can be used to improve the teacher workforce and reduce turnover."

Nguyen's research interests include teacher leadership and school improvement, teacher policy and teacher labor market, and financial aid and postsecondary persistence.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600103508155.jpeg" alt="(Photo by Steve Riot, Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Steve Riot, Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>KSUMANHATTAN —A comprehensive review of 120 national research projects spanning 40 years finds the keys to teacher retention — including early-career educators and those in hard-to-staff areas such as special needs and STEM fields — are in incentive and support programs. Equally substantive, the meta-analysis disproved the long-held connection between performance evaluations and teacher attrition. Tuan D. Nguyen, a Kansas State University&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Education</a>&nbsp;assistant professor, led the research team that recently published&nbsp;"<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1747938X19305597" target="_blank">The Correlates of Teacher Turnover: An Updated and Expanded Meta-Analysis of the Literature</a>" in Educational Research Review, which is ranked second among educational research journals.The meta-analysis offered new insights, identified underexamined factors and illuminated the connections between educational policy and teacher turnover."This crucial study examined the evidence on what drove teachers to quit the profession or move from one school to another," Nguyen said. "It has far-reaching implications for policymakers and school administrators who are committed to reducing teacher turnover."The researchers discovered substantial evidence that improving school organizational characteristics, such as reducing student disciplinary problems, improving administrative support and supporting teacher collaborations, may reduce the risk of turnover. Moreover, despite some concerns of&nbsp;potential negative consequences&nbsp;of teacher evaluation and accountability from policymakers and educators, the data did not indicate that performance evaluations increase teacher attrition.To the contrary, their research suggested that when teachers are evaluated and the results of their evaluations or measures of effectiveness are made available, teachers are not more likely to turn over. In fact, the evidence indicated that teachers may be enticed to stay as they are provided with some urgency, sense of empowerment and evidence of areas for professional improvement. This held true even when teacher evaluations were used to determine accountability and pay raises.Relatedly, substantial evidence emerged that teachers in merit-based pay programs were less likely to leave teaching than those who were not. This was important as the researchers also found evaluation and accountability policies tended to be associated with keeping the most effective teachers and removing the least effective teachers — as measured by value-added scores.In short, Nguyen said, evaluation and strategic compensation reforms may be leveraged to improve the composition of the teacher workforce. Increasing teacher salary was also associated with improving teacher retention, but this effect was smaller in comparison to merit pay and retention bonuses."We'd like policymakers and administrators to understand that while there may be warranted concerns about teacher evaluation and accountability policies, they are more positively perceived by some teachers and have more beneficial effects than previously recognized," Nguyen said. "These factors can be used to improve the teacher workforce and reduce turnover."No grant funding supported this study.Nguyen's research interests include teacher leadership and school improvement, teacher policy and teacher labor market, and financial aid and postsecondary persistence.&nbsp;

Research finds incentive, support most effective for retaining teachers

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Turning Point Professional Counseling Services is trying to improve access to mental health care by offering a walk-in mental health clinic.

The clinic is offered 3 to 7 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays. Cost is $10 per session. You do not have to have insurance to participate in the program.

The therapy sessions are offered for adults or teens with parents's permission.&nbsp;

Most sessions will be about 30 minutes, said Michelle Fairbank, licensed clinical professional counselor at Turning Point. However, they can be longer if the client needs it.

The walk-in clinic tries to offer solution-based therapy to help clients with coping strategies for specific issues, she said.

"If someone has a really difficult serious issue, they will stay with the client until they feel like the client has reached at least some sense of clarity about their issue or at least has an action plan about what to do about it," Fairbank said.

The walk-in clients will be seen by one of three Fort Hays State University interns who are working at the mental health clinic. Two are from the counseling department, and one is from the social work department.

A licensed therapist is available during the walk-in clinic, if needed.

Turning Point has four licensed therapists on staff, and the interns can refer clients to one of those clinicians for longer-term therapy if needed,&nbsp;Fairbank said. The clinic offers a full slate of psychiatric services.

"Sometimes there is a stigma about mental health help," Fairbank said, "and sometimes it is just getting here realizing that talking to a neutral ear is sometimes all they need to be able to figure out their issue."

Clients can come back to the clinic more than once. However, Turning Point can't guarantee the client will have the same therapist. Turning Point can also offer longer-term therapy for clients who do not have insurance through the interns.

Unlike services at a community mental health center, the walk-in clinic does not require a lengthy intake process. Participants only need to sign a consent to treat form.

"Our goal is, 'How can we help you now?' " Fairbank said. "We call it solution-focused therapy or positive psychology — something that is helping them find a little bit of hope in what they are going through and encouragement."

Fairbank also stressed all visits are confidential.

Turning Point began the clinic last fall, but the program had to be suspended during the shutdown. It rebooted the program on Sept. 3.

Fairbank said she thought the walk-in service is needed now more than ever.

"I have lived in this community 43 years, and I am constantly asking myself, 'What does Hays need? What does my community need?' " Fairbank said.

People who have never had mental health issues before are feeling additional stress brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and reporting symptoms of depression and anxiety.

A survey by the National Center for Health Statistics shows almost 30 percent of Americans are experiencing symptoms of clinical depression, compared to 6 percent at the same time last year.

The survey also showed 36 percent are feeling more anxious about life now compared to 8 percent last year.

"This is a hard time," Fairbank said. "We are being kept from loved ones and maybe jobs and travel. There are a lot of stresses right now. People are hesitant to plan right now because they don't know if they are going to be able to complete it."

Turning Point also has therapists in Dodge City, Scott City, Colby, Bird City, Quinter, Plainville, Stockton and Russell, but Hays is the only office offering the walk-in clinic. Fairbank said she would like to see that program expand if there are resources and a demand for it.

"There is such a need across the United States," she said. "I would say we need more mental health specialists."

Turning Point is taking precautions to reduce the risk of spread of COVID-19. Therapists wear masks. Clients are asked to wear masks in the lobby. They can wear a mask in therapy sessions or sign a waiver that they will not hold Turning Point liable if they contract the virus.

The clinic also offers appointments through telehealth if the client's insurance allows it.

Fairbank said the clinic hopes to soon offer groups, including anger management, parenting and restorative yoga.

You can learn more about Turning Point's services by calling 785-628-3575 or visiting the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.turningpointpcs.net/">website</a>. The clinic is located at 1301 Oak, Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600281611037.jpeg" alt="The receptionist at Turning Point Professional Counseling takes a call. The clinic is offering a new walk-in clinic service from 3 to 7 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays." />
 <figcaption>The receptionist at Turning Point Professional Counseling takes a call. The clinic is offering a new walk-in clinic service from 3 to 7 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTurning Point Professional Counseling Services is trying to improve access to mental health care by offering a walk-in mental health clinic.The clinic is offered 3 to 7 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays. Cost is $10 per session. You do not have to have insurance to participate in the program.The therapy sessions are offered for adults or teens with parents's permission.&nbsp;Most sessions will be about 30 minutes, said Michelle Fairbank, licensed clinical professional counselor at Turning Point. However, they can be longer if the client needs it.The walk-in clinic tries to offer solution-based therapy to help clients with coping strategies for specific issues, she said."If someone has a really difficult serious issue, they will stay with the client until they feel like the client has reached at least some sense of clarity about their issue or at least has an action plan about what to do about it," Fairbank said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600281840213.jpeg" alt="The Turning Point Office is at 1301 Oak, Hays." />
 <figcaption>The Turning Point Office is at 1301 Oak, Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>The walk-in clients will be seen by one of three Fort Hays State University interns who are working at the mental health clinic. Two are from the counseling department, and one is from the social work department.A licensed therapist is available during the walk-in clinic, if needed.Turning Point has four licensed therapists on staff, and the interns can refer clients to one of those clinicians for longer-term therapy if needed,&nbsp;Fairbank said. The clinic offers a full slate of psychiatric services."Sometimes there is a stigma about mental health help," Fairbank said, "and sometimes it is just getting here realizing that talking to a neutral ear is sometimes all they need to be able to figure out their issue."Clients can come back to the clinic more than once. However, Turning Point can't guarantee the client will have the same therapist. Turning Point can also offer longer-term therapy for clients who do not have insurance through the interns.Unlike services at a community mental health center, the walk-in clinic does not require a lengthy intake process. Participants only need to sign a consent to treat form."Our goal is, 'How can we help you now?' " Fairbank said. "We call it solution-focused therapy or positive psychology — something that is helping them find a little bit of hope in what they are going through and encouragement."Fairbank also stressed all visits are confidential.Turning Point began the clinic last fall, but the program had to be suspended during the shutdown. It rebooted the program on Sept. 3.Fairbank said she thought the walk-in service is needed now more than ever."I have lived in this community 43 years, and I am constantly asking myself, 'What does Hays need? What does my community need?' " Fairbank said.People who have never had mental health issues before are feeling additional stress brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and reporting symptoms of depression and anxiety.A survey by the National Center for Health Statistics shows almost 30 percent of Americans are experiencing symptoms of clinical depression, compared to 6 percent at the same time last year.The survey also showed 36 percent are feeling more anxious about life now compared to 8 percent last year."This is a hard time," Fairbank said. "We are being kept from loved ones and maybe jobs and travel. There are a lot of stresses right now. People are hesitant to plan right now because they don't know if they are going to be able to complete it."Turning Point also has therapists in Dodge City, Scott City, Colby, Bird City, Quinter, Plainville, Stockton and Russell, but Hays is the only office offering the walk-in clinic. Fairbank said she would like to see that program expand if there are resources and a demand for it."There is such a need across the United States," she said. "I would say we need more mental health specialists."Turning Point is taking precautions to reduce the risk of spread of COVID-19. Therapists wear masks. Clients are asked to wear masks in the lobby. They can wear a mask in therapy sessions or sign a waiver that they will not hold Turning Point liable if they contract the virus.The clinic also offers appointments through telehealth if the client's insurance allows it.Fairbank said the clinic hopes to soon offer groups, including anger management, parenting and restorative yoga.You can learn more about Turning Point's services by calling 785-628-3575 or visiting the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.turningpointpcs.net/">website</a>. The clinic is located at 1301 Oak, Hays.

Turning Point Counseling offers mental health walk-in clinic

There remains little good news with COVID-19 as cases continue trending up in Kansas, but Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy believes the situation is beginning to look better in Ellis County.

"Right now in Ellis County, we have seen improvement," Kennedy said. "We have seen improvement in both the percent of positives and in the number of cases."

Speaking Thursday, he said the&nbsp;percent of seven-day positives has fallen from a peak of over 25 percent to an average of around 15 percent.

"We have seen a significant decrease in cases per day and percent of positives," Kennedy said.

The percent of positives is a key indicator in community spread and tracks the amount of testing done, to the number of positives that come from that testing. That number rose to 21.5 percent in Friday's case update.

While that percent of positives is still higher than he would like, it is an encouraging trend.

Kennedy said he would like to see the percent of positives drop to under 10 percent and, ideally, the percent of positives would be under 5 percent.

Along with the percent of positives, dropping case totals are also a sign of progress in Ellis County, he said.

At a peak, there were 190 to 200 new cases per seven days, as of Thursday that was down to 99.

"The lower those numbers go, means the less amount of community transition we have," Kennedy said.

Keeping a declining trend going depends on individual actions.

"We have had community transmission for a long time. We would like to see improvements, but it really comes down to the public really paying attention to those basic health measures and really taking individual initiative to avoid those contacts that might lead to an increase in risk," Kennedy said.

While it is possible to be exposed to coronavirus in the community, the most frequent exposure comes from close contacts.

"A predominant amount of viral transmission occurs inside the home," Kennedy said.

While he said he understands that mitigation measures inside the home are not always possible, using those measures, especially with a positive case, can significantly reduce spread.

He said finding way to isolate groups together is also an important way to limit spread.

But that doesn't mean cutting off all contact.

"We need personal connections in life," Kennedy

Keeping groups small and static can help. Practicing those measures, he said, can help keep some normalcy in the community and limit the spread.

While it will not help limit COVID-19 transmission, Kennedy said getting a flu shot will help keep the community healthy.

"The flu shot this year is going to be extremely important just for a healthier community in general," Kennedy said.

He said the flu shot is an easy way to increase health by ensuring that an individual does not have a compromised immune response.

"If we make ourselves healthier, and that's not just the flu vaccine, that's healthier in general, if we eat healthily, exercise, get plenty of sleep, find time to unwind, unplug from the news media, unplug from Facebook, all of those types of things help to make you individually healthier. And the healthier we can make individuals in our population, the better their bodies can battle whatever virus it is, whether it is flu, cold or COVID."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598582308861.jpeg" alt="Ellis County Health Services director Jason Kennedy speaks with the Hays City Commission about COVID-19 in the county earlier this month." />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Health Services director Jason Kennedy speaks with the Hays City Commission about COVID-19 in the county earlier this month.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Ellis County Health Services director shares COVID-19 update" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/bts33-ec20c1?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth=&btn-skin=101"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThere remains little good news with COVID-19 as cases continue trending up in Kansas, but Ellis County Health Services Director Jason Kennedy believes the situation is beginning to look better in Ellis County."Right now in Ellis County, we have seen improvement," Kennedy said. "We have seen improvement in both the percent of positives and in the number of cases."Speaking Thursday, he said the&nbsp;percent of seven-day positives has fallen from a peak of over 25 percent to an average of around 15 percent."We have seen a significant decrease in cases per day and percent of positives," Kennedy said.The percent of positives is a key indicator in community spread and tracks the amount of testing done, to the number of positives that come from that testing. That number rose to 21.5 percent in Friday's case update.While that percent of positives is still higher than he would like, it is an encouraging trend.Kennedy said he would like to see the percent of positives drop to under 10 percent and, ideally, the percent of positives would be under 5 percent.Along with the percent of positives, dropping case totals are also a sign of progress in Ellis County, he said.At a peak, there were 190 to 200 new cases per seven days, as of Thursday that was down to 99."The lower those numbers go, means the less amount of community transition we have," Kennedy said.Keeping a declining trend going depends on individual actions."We have had community transmission for a long time. We would like to see improvements, but it really comes down to the public really paying attention to those basic health measures and really taking individual initiative to avoid those contacts that might lead to an increase in risk," Kennedy said.While it is possible to be exposed to coronavirus in the community, the most frequent exposure comes from close contacts."A predominant amount of viral transmission occurs inside the home," Kennedy said.While he said he understands that mitigation measures inside the home are not always possible, using those measures, especially with a positive case, can significantly reduce spread.He said finding way to isolate groups together is also an important way to limit spread.But that doesn't mean cutting off all contact."We need personal connections in life," KennedyKeeping groups small and static can help. Practicing those measures, he said, can help keep some normalcy in the community and limit the spread.While it will not help limit COVID-19 transmission, Kennedy said getting a flu shot will help keep the community healthy."The flu shot this year is going to be extremely important just for a healthier community in general," Kennedy said.He said the flu shot is an easy way to increase health by ensuring that an individual does not have a compromised immune response."If we make ourselves healthier, and that's not just the flu vaccine, that's healthier in general, if we eat healthily, exercise, get plenty of sleep, find time to unwind, unplug from the news media, unplug from Facebook, all of those types of things help to make you individually healthier. And the healthier we can make individuals in our population, the better their bodies can battle whatever virus it is, whether it is flu, cold or COVID."

🎙Kennedy: COVID-19 improvement in Ellis County

Like many organizations this year, the Volga German Centennial Association and organizers of Oktoberfest Hays have had to make adjustments. The 2020 Oktoberfest Hays REVISION plan replaces the traditional event in Municipal Park with smaller events at local restaurants.&nbsp;

As each restaurant will have limited capacity, Oktoberfest fans are encouraged to join in virtually via Facebook Live and participate by supporting these restaurants throughout the entire month of October.&nbsp;

Event organizers’ goal for 2020 is to still offer the community a way to celebrate German traditions, but without the large crowds. Each participating restaurant will offer a special German menu item or an Oktoberfest-themed beer. Defiance Brewing Co. brewed a German Hefeweizen beer for the occasion, called “Hayzenbraü,” which will be available at multiple locations. In addition, these restaurants will donate a portion of their proceeds to a local nonprofit organization in hopes to offset those organization’s fundraising losses incurred this year.

All restaurants are responsible for abiding by city ordinances that require masks, occupant capacity requirements, and social distancing.

Oktoberfest Punch Cards will be on hand at participating restaurants. When customers purchase food (dine in or to go) at these locations through October 31, 2020 they will receive a punch. Once a card is filled, customers can fill in their contact information on the back of the card, and drop it into one of the boxes at any of the participating sponsor locations for a chance to win Oktoberfest prizes.

September&nbsp;26: Defiance Brewing Co. @ 4 p.m. - Tapping of the Keg “Hayzenbraü”
Including: The Local Food Truck, Stein Holding Contest, Beer Puppeteer Contest, Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale.

September 28:&nbsp;Thirsty’s Brew Pub and Grill @ 6 p.m. - First pour “Hayzenbraü”
Including: Stein Holding Contest, Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale.

September 29:&nbsp;Old Chicago @&nbsp;6 p.m. - First Pour “Hayzenbraü”
Including: Stein Holding Contest, Beer Puppeteer Contest, Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale.

September 30:&nbsp;Gutch’s Bar and Grill @&nbsp;6 p.m. - First Pour “Hayzenbraü”
Including: Stein Holding Contest, Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale.

October&nbsp;1:&nbsp;The Golden Q @&nbsp;6 p.m. - First pour “Hayzenbraü”
Including: Stein Holding Contest, Beer Puppeteer Contest, Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale.

October 2:&nbsp;Gella’s Diner &amp; Lb. Brewing Co. @&nbsp;11 a.m. - First pour “Victor E. Lager”
Including: Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale.

Sake2Me Sushi Rolls:&nbsp;
No live event, but will have the "Hayzenbraü" beer.&nbsp;Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale. (Note: Sake2Me’s new location is 803 Fort St.)

Other activities include a Coloring Contest for kids and the German Market. Rules for the coloring contest can be found at <a href="http://www.oktoberfesthays.com/coloringcontest">www.oktoberfesthays.com/coloringcontest</a>. Entries must be submitted online by October 31. Prizes will be awarded for the top three entries. First prize will be a 15’ X 15’ inflatable for the day donated by Grand True Value Rental.

Coloring sheets can be picked up at the following locations:

The German Market is a partnership of Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC) and Oktoberfest.&nbsp;It will take place 7:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 3 at the&nbsp;Downtown Pavilion at 10th&nbsp;and Main Streets. The Downtown Market offers fresh produce, farm-fresh meats, jellies and jams, handmade items, and more. For this special market, vendors are invited to bring German-themed&nbsp;foods and items for&nbsp;purchase. Vendors and nonprofits who normally sell in the park are highly encouraged to attend. Vendor&nbsp;spaces at the German Market are $25. Potential vendors should contact DHDC&nbsp;at 785-621-4171.

Some of the generous sponsors making this year’s events possible include John’s Fencing, Gella's Diner and Lb. Brewing Company, Heartland Building Center, Midwest Energy, Taco Grande, The Uptown Fox, Tiger Burger, Big D’s Rent All, Commercial Builders, Northwestern Printers, and Enersys.

The Volga German Centennial Association, established in 1974, promotes the heritage of the Volga German immigrants through the annual Oktoberfest. A portion of the proceeds from the event fund scholarships to Fort Hays State University (FHSU) and NCK Technical College for descendants of Volga German heritage, as well as provide funds for area churches in need.&nbsp;

For details and updates, visit oktoberfesthays.com or the Oktoberfest Hays Facebook page at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/OktoberfestHays">www.facebook.com/OktoberfestHays</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600450836053.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLike many organizations this year, the Volga German Centennial Association and organizers of Oktoberfest Hays have had to make adjustments. The 2020 Oktoberfest Hays REVISION plan replaces the traditional event in Municipal Park with smaller events at local restaurants.&nbsp;As each restaurant will have limited capacity, Oktoberfest fans are encouraged to join in virtually via Facebook Live and participate by supporting these restaurants throughout the entire month of October.&nbsp;Event organizers’ goal for 2020 is to still offer the community a way to celebrate German traditions, but without the large crowds. Each participating restaurant will offer a special German menu item or an Oktoberfest-themed beer. Defiance Brewing Co. brewed a German Hefeweizen beer for the occasion, called “Hayzenbraü,” which will be available at multiple locations. In addition, these restaurants will donate a portion of their proceeds to a local nonprofit organization in hopes to offset those organization’s fundraising losses incurred this year.All restaurants are responsible for abiding by city ordinances that require masks, occupant capacity requirements, and social distancing.Oktoberfest Punch Cards will be on hand at participating restaurants. When customers purchase food (dine in or to go) at these locations through October 31, 2020 they will receive a punch. Once a card is filled, customers can fill in their contact information on the back of the card, and drop it into one of the boxes at any of the participating sponsor locations for a chance to win Oktoberfest prizes.<h2>2020 Oktoberfest Hays REVISION schedule</h2>September&nbsp;26: Defiance Brewing Co. @ 4 p.m. - Tapping of the Keg “Hayzenbraü”
Including: The Local Food Truck, Stein Holding Contest, Beer Puppeteer Contest, Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale.September 28:&nbsp;Thirsty’s Brew Pub and Grill @ 6 p.m. - First pour “Hayzenbraü”
Including: Stein Holding Contest, Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale.September 29:&nbsp;Old Chicago @&nbsp;6 p.m. - First Pour “Hayzenbraü”
Including: Stein Holding Contest, Beer Puppeteer Contest, Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale.September 30:&nbsp;Gutch’s Bar and Grill @&nbsp;6 p.m. - First Pour “Hayzenbraü”
Including: Stein Holding Contest, Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale.October&nbsp;1:&nbsp;The Golden Q @&nbsp;6 p.m. - First pour “Hayzenbraü”
Including: Stein Holding Contest, Beer Puppeteer Contest, Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale.October 2:&nbsp;Gella’s Diner &amp; Lb. Brewing Co. @&nbsp;11 a.m. - First pour “Victor E. Lager”
Including: Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale.Sake2Me Sushi Rolls:&nbsp;
No live event, but will have the "Hayzenbraü" beer.&nbsp;Official Oktoberfest Hays Merchandise and Mugs for sale. (Note: Sake2Me’s new location is 803 Fort St.)Other activities include a Coloring Contest for kids and the German Market. Rules for the coloring contest can be found at <a href="http://www.oktoberfesthays.com/coloringcontest">www.oktoberfesthays.com/coloringcontest</a>. Entries must be submitted online by October 31. Prizes will be awarded for the top three entries. First prize will be a 15’ X 15’ inflatable for the day donated by Grand True Value Rental.Coloring sheets can be picked up at the following locations:<ol>
 <li>Defiance Brewing Co.</li><li>Gella’s Diner &amp; Lb. Brewing Co.</li><li>Gutch’s Bar &amp; Grill</li><li>Sake2Me Sushi Rolls</li><li>The Golden Q</li><li>Thirsty’s Brew Pub &amp; Grill</li><li>Old Chicago</li>
 </ol>The German Market is a partnership of Downtown Hays Development Corporation (DHDC) and Oktoberfest.&nbsp;It will take place 7:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 3 at the&nbsp;Downtown Pavilion at 10th&nbsp;and Main Streets. The Downtown Market offers fresh produce, farm-fresh meats, jellies and jams, handmade items, and more. For this special market, vendors are invited to bring German-themed&nbsp;foods and items for&nbsp;purchase. Vendors and nonprofits who normally sell in the park are highly encouraged to attend. Vendor&nbsp;spaces at the German Market are $25. Potential vendors should contact DHDC&nbsp;at 785-621-4171.Some of the generous sponsors making this year’s events possible include John’s Fencing, Gella's Diner and Lb. Brewing Company, Heartland Building Center, Midwest Energy, Taco Grande, The Uptown Fox, Tiger Burger, Big D’s Rent All, Commercial Builders, Northwestern Printers, and Enersys.The Volga German Centennial Association, established in 1974, promotes the heritage of the Volga German immigrants through the annual Oktoberfest. A portion of the proceeds from the event fund scholarships to Fort Hays State University (FHSU) and NCK Technical College for descendants of Volga German heritage, as well as provide funds for area churches in need.&nbsp;For details and updates, visit oktoberfesthays.com or the Oktoberfest Hays Facebook page at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/OktoberfestHays">www.facebook.com/OktoberfestHays</a>.

Revised Oktoberfest offers up full schedule of events

TOPEKA – Youth from across Kansas, including Ellis County, have entered 1,889 animals in the 88th Kansas Junior Livestock Show, which will take place October 2-4 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds in Hutchinson. A total of 784 exhibitors from 95 counties have entered 135 market steers, 368 breeding heifers, 228 market hogs, 260 breeding gilts, 280 market lambs, 277 breeding ewes, 175 market goats and 176 commercial does. This event is the largest youth show in the state.

Reno County leads the state with the most exhibitors at 36. The largest number of total livestock entries is Douglas County, with 83. Youth from Douglas County also have entered the most market lambs, 21, and breeding gilts, 11. The largest number of steers entered is Butler County with eight. Franklin County has the most market hog entries at 11. Pottawatomie County and Reno County are tied with the largest number of heifers entered at 24. In addition, Pottawatomie County competitors have entered the most market goats, 12. Dickinson County has the largest number of breeding ewes entered with 12. Finney County has the most commercial doe kid entries at 11.

            KJLS will award cash to exhibitors of the top five animals in both market and breeding shows in all four species. Direct cash payouts will range from $4,000 to $500 for steers; $1,000 to $300 for heifers; $2,000 to $500 for market hogs; $750 to $250 for breeding gilts; $2,000 to $300 for market lambs; $500 to $50 for registered ewes; $500 to $100 for commercial ewes; $2,000 to $400 for market goats; and $750 to $200 for commercial doe kids.

In addition, KJLS will present several scholarships during the show to exhibitors who have excelled academically, in community service and in 4-H/FFA. This is the 28th year for the scholarship program, which has awarded a total of $472,900 to 337 KJLS exhibitors since 1993. Last year, a total of $22,000 was presented to 14 individuals.

            Separate from the selection of species champions, a showmanship contest will be held. The top showman in the junior, intermediate and senior divisions of each species will receive a silver belt

buckle. Prizes also will be awarded for second through fifth place in each division.

KJLS will again offer the LEAD Challenge, which is an educational and advocacy event that provides an opportunity for exhibitors to learn about current industry issues and apply that information in a competitive environment. Exhibitors will be divided into three age divisions: junior, intermediate and senior. All will participate in the LEAD Listen &amp; Learn, showmanship, skills stations and an interview. There are 31 juniors, 52 intermediates and 37 seniors entered in this year’s challenge.     

In conjunction with KJLS, the Kansas Livestock Foundation (KLF) will sponsor a club calf show and sale. Steer and heifer prospects from some of the top club calf producers in the Midwest will be consigned. The event will take place October 3. Sale commission proceeds will go toward KLF Youth in Agriculture scholarships.

The Mid-America Classic Collegiate Livestock Judging Contest will be held October 2 in conjunction with the show. This event, which has been held for more than 30 years, provides competitors the opportunity to sharpen their livestock evaluation skills; develop their critical thinking and decision-making abilities; and refine their public speaking skills.

KLA and Kansas State University are major sponsors of the show, along with Cargill, Merck Animal Health, Seaboard Foods, American AgCredit, Kansas Farm Bureau and Farm Bureau Financial Services, the Kansas Department of Agriculture and Friends of KJLS.

            Metzler, Dakota&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Ellis,&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Market Barrow

            Metzler, Dakota&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Commercial Gilt

            Neher, Ella&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Meat Goat

            Neher, Ella&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Commercial Doe

            Neher, Esther&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Doe

            Neher, Karli&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Market Lamb

            Neher, Karli&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Meat Goat

            Neher, Karli&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Doe

            Neher, Mya&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Doe

            Pfeifer, Konnor&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Gilt

            Pfeifer, Kylee&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Market Barrow

            Pfeifer, Kylee&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Gilt

            Robben, Dalton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Victoria&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Heifer

            Robben, Dalton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Victoria&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Meat Goat

            Robben, Maddie&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Victoria&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Meat Goat

            Rupp, Quentin&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Heifer

            Sack, Jacob&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Meat Goat

            Sack, Kimberly&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Meat Goat

            Scheck, Heather&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Gorham&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Market Steer

            Scheck, Heather&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Gorham&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Maintainer Heifer

            Scheck, Lindsey&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Gorham&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Market Steer

            Scheck, Lindsey&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Gorham&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Commercial Heifer

            Schmeidler, Faith&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Simmental&nbsp; Pct Heifer

            Schmeidler, Grace&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Simmental Pct Heifer

            Schumacher, Levi&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Market Steer

            Schumacher, Levi&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Heifer

            Weber, Kaleigh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Market Barrow

            Weber, Kaleigh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Gilt

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600100974650.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Junior Livestock Show TOPEKA – Youth from across Kansas, including Ellis County, have entered 1,889 animals in the 88th Kansas Junior Livestock Show, which will take place October 2-4 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds in Hutchinson. A total of 784 exhibitors from 95 counties have entered 135 market steers, 368 breeding heifers, 228 market hogs, 260 breeding gilts, 280 market lambs, 277 breeding ewes, 175 market goats and 176 commercial does. This event is the largest youth show in the state.Reno County leads the state with the most exhibitors at 36. The largest number of total livestock entries is Douglas County, with 83. Youth from Douglas County also have entered the most market lambs, 21, and breeding gilts, 11. The largest number of steers entered is Butler County with eight. Franklin County has the most market hog entries at 11. Pottawatomie County and Reno County are tied with the largest number of heifers entered at 24. In addition, Pottawatomie County competitors have entered the most market goats, 12. Dickinson County has the largest number of breeding ewes entered with 12. Finney County has the most commercial doe kid entries at 11. KJLS will award cash to exhibitors of the top five animals in both market and breeding shows in all four species. Direct cash payouts will range from $4,000 to $500 for steers; $1,000 to $300 for heifers; $2,000 to $500 for market hogs; $750 to $250 for breeding gilts; $2,000 to $300 for market lambs; $500 to $50 for registered ewes; $500 to $100 for commercial ewes; $2,000 to $400 for market goats; and $750 to $200 for commercial doe kids.In addition, KJLS will present several scholarships during the show to exhibitors who have excelled academically, in community service and in 4-H/FFA. This is the 28th year for the scholarship program, which has awarded a total of $472,900 to 337 KJLS exhibitors since 1993. Last year, a total of $22,000 was presented to 14 individuals. Separate from the selection of species champions, a showmanship contest will be held. The top showman in the junior, intermediate and senior divisions of each species will receive a silver beltbuckle. Prizes also will be awarded for second through fifth place in each division.KJLS will again offer the LEAD Challenge, which is an educational and advocacy event that provides an opportunity for exhibitors to learn about current industry issues and apply that information in a competitive environment. Exhibitors will be divided into three age divisions: junior, intermediate and senior. All will participate in the LEAD Listen &amp; Learn, showmanship, skills stations and an interview. There are 31 juniors, 52 intermediates and 37 seniors entered in this year’s challenge. In conjunction with KJLS, the Kansas Livestock Foundation (KLF) will sponsor a club calf show and sale. Steer and heifer prospects from some of the top club calf producers in the Midwest will be consigned. The event will take place October 3. Sale commission proceeds will go toward KLF Youth in Agriculture scholarships.The Mid-America Classic Collegiate Livestock Judging Contest will be held October 2 in conjunction with the show. This event, which has been held for more than 30 years, provides competitors the opportunity to sharpen their livestock evaluation skills; develop their critical thinking and decision-making abilities; and refine their public speaking skills.KLA and Kansas State University are major sponsors of the show, along with Cargill, Merck Animal Health, Seaboard Foods, American AgCredit, Kansas Farm Bureau and Farm Bureau Financial Services, the Kansas Department of Agriculture and Friends of KJLS.Ellis County entrants are: Metzler, Dakota&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Ellis,&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Market Barrow Metzler, Dakota&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Commercial Gilt Neher, Ella&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Meat Goat Neher, Ella&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Commercial Doe Neher, Esther&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Doe Neher, Karli&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Market Lamb Neher, Karli&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Meat Goat Neher, Karli&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Doe Neher, Karli&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Doe Neher, Mya&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Pfeifer&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Doe Pfeifer, Konnor&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Gilt Pfeifer, Konnor&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Gilt Pfeifer, Kylee&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Market Barrow Pfeifer, Kylee&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Gilt Pfeifer, Kylee&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Gilt Robben, Dalton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Victoria&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Heifer Robben, Dalton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Victoria&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Meat Goat Robben, Maddie&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Victoria&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Meat Goat Rupp, Quentin&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Heifer Sack, Jacob&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Meat Goat Sack, Kimberly&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Meat Goat Scheck, Heather&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Gorham&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Market Steer Scheck, Heather&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Gorham&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Maintainer Heifer Scheck, Lindsey&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Gorham&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Market Steer Scheck, Lindsey&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Gorham&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Commercial Heifer Schmeidler, Faith&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Simmental&nbsp; Pct Heifer Schmeidler, Grace&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Simmental Pct Heifer Schmeidler, Grace&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Simmental Pct Heifer Schumacher, Levi&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Market Steer Schumacher, Levi&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Hays&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Heifer Weber, Kaleigh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Market Barrow Weber, Kaleigh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Market Barrow Weber, Kaleigh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ellis&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commercial Gilt

Ellis Co. youth to participate in Kansas Junior Livestock Show 

Three-day weather outlook

Since my computer spent some time in the hospital this week with the “Geek Squad" kids, I decided it was OK to reshare a story from a few years ago about Nature’s rain predictors.&nbsp;

During a hot, dry spell a few years back, a friend told me she’d been hearing the call of a “rain crow” and asked me if I knew what kind of bird it was. She also said she had been seeing “sundogs” in the evening and that they were both supposedly predictors of rain. Now I remember someone’s grandpa talking about a rain crow when I was a kid, or storm crow as he called it, and I knew absolutely zero about sundogs, but given their supposed rain prediction powers, I delved deeper.&nbsp;

I found numerous references to a “rain crow” and all seemed to agree that it was in fact a Yellow- Billed Cuckoo. Few, however wanted to stick their neck out concerning its rain prediction ability; one website tossed around the figure of 3 days from first hearing one until rain. Sundogs on the other hand, were quite a popular subject, and are ice crystals high in the atmosphere that, when sunlight shines through them can give the illusion of a second or third sun on each side of the actual sun. I’ve seen sun dogs a couple times over the years in the winter. But once again, however, sundogs ties to predicting rain were sparse.&nbsp;

My search turned up so many proverbs and “old wives tales” concerning rain that I decided to enlist the help of Ross Jansen, Meteorologist at KWCH TV channel 12 and play an Exploring Kansas Outdoors version of Myth Busters. I read several rain prediction fables to Ross over the phone and got his take on each. Concerning sundogs, Ross said there is some correct science in tying sundogs to rain, in that the same ice crystals that cause them have the ability to form clouds containing rain. But as far as them predicting rain, Ross was hesitant to agree to that. Next I asked him about a ring around the moon predicting rain, and again he said that a ring around the moon indeed meant there was moisture at some level, but said it was so high up that the chance of it finding its way to us in the form of rain was nil. “Red sky at night, sailors delight; red sky in morning, sailors take warning” is another widely quoted proverb about rain. Since weather patterns typically move across the country from west to east, the gist of the explanation is that a red morning sky means we are seeing sunlight through a weather system yet to come, while a red evening sky means we are seeing a weather system moving away from us. Ross said he has indeed noticed that morning thunderstorms often bring with them a red morning sky, and that there was again some correct science accompanying the tale. But also like the previous two fables, he felt it was a stretch to say that they actually predicted rain. We agreed to call these three myths SEMI-BUSTED.

Another proverb I found read “When grass is dry at night, look for rain before the light; when grass is dry at morning light, look for rain before the night.” This one uses the presence or absence of dew at certain times to predict rain. Ross says that the presence or absence of dew depends solely on night time temperatures and dew point temperatures and saw no link between them and a prediction for rain. We declared this one BUSTED. The next was an Indian proverb that says “If the moon is red, of rain she speaks.” Ross said a red moon is red only because of smoke or dust; again BUSTED. Next I asked him about something I’ve always thought to be a rain predictor, that being the fact that birds fly lower and congregate on power lines just before a storm because the lower air pressure preceding a storm makes it tough for them to attain lift and fly. He debunked that also by telling me that when air pressure is low, the air as a whole actually rises; BUSTED again.

I could literally spend the next month cussing and discussing all the old time weather fables and proverbs I found while writing this piece. To those of you who put stock in any of the rain predictors I cast doubt upon, I’m sorry to have rained on your parade (yes, most certainly pun intended) even though I’m certain some of these hold true some of the time. Ross even told me that his mom swears by an old tale that says it will rain 100 days after a fog; she even keeps track of it on her calendar. Maybe that will win me back some points and make you feel better again about your favorite weather tales knowing that the weather guy’s mom even believes them! …Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Since my computer spent some time in the hospital this week with the “Geek Squad" kids, I decided it was OK to reshare a story from a few years ago about Nature’s rain predictors.&nbsp;During a hot, dry spell a few years back, a friend told me she’d been hearing the call of a “rain crow” and asked me if I knew what kind of bird it was. She also said she had been seeing “sundogs” in the evening and that they were both supposedly predictors of rain. Now I remember someone’s grandpa talking about a rain crow when I was a kid, or storm crow as he called it, and I knew absolutely zero about sundogs, but given their supposed rain prediction powers, I delved deeper.&nbsp;I found numerous references to a “rain crow” and all seemed to agree that it was in fact a Yellow- Billed Cuckoo. Few, however wanted to stick their neck out concerning its rain prediction ability; one website tossed around the figure of 3 days from first hearing one until rain. Sundogs on the other hand, were quite a popular subject, and are ice crystals high in the atmosphere that, when sunlight shines through them can give the illusion of a second or third sun on each side of the actual sun. I’ve seen sun dogs a couple times over the years in the winter. But once again, however, sundogs ties to predicting rain were sparse.&nbsp;My search turned up so many proverbs and “old wives tales” concerning rain that I decided to enlist the help of Ross Jansen, Meteorologist at KWCH TV channel 12 and play an Exploring Kansas Outdoors version of Myth Busters. I read several rain prediction fables to Ross over the phone and got his take on each. Concerning sundogs, Ross said there is some correct science in tying sundogs to rain, in that the same ice crystals that cause them have the ability to form clouds containing rain. But as far as them predicting rain, Ross was hesitant to agree to that. Next I asked him about a ring around the moon predicting rain, and again he said that a ring around the moon indeed meant there was moisture at some level, but said it was so high up that the chance of it finding its way to us in the form of rain was nil. “Red sky at night, sailors delight; red sky in morning, sailors take warning” is another widely quoted proverb about rain. Since weather patterns typically move across the country from west to east, the gist of the explanation is that a red morning sky means we are seeing sunlight through a weather system yet to come, while a red evening sky means we are seeing a weather system moving away from us. Ross said he has indeed noticed that morning thunderstorms often bring with them a red morning sky, and that there was again some correct science accompanying the tale. But also like the previous two fables, he felt it was a stretch to say that they actually predicted rain. We agreed to call these three myths SEMI-BUSTED.Another proverb I found read “When grass is dry at night, look for rain before the light; when grass is dry at morning light, look for rain before the night.” This one uses the presence or absence of dew at certain times to predict rain. Ross says that the presence or absence of dew depends solely on night time temperatures and dew point temperatures and saw no link between them and a prediction for rain. We declared this one BUSTED. The next was an Indian proverb that says “If the moon is red, of rain she speaks.” Ross said a red moon is red only because of smoke or dust; again BUSTED. Next I asked him about something I’ve always thought to be a rain predictor, that being the fact that birds fly lower and congregate on power lines just before a storm because the lower air pressure preceding a storm makes it tough for them to attain lift and fly. He debunked that also by telling me that when air pressure is low, the air as a whole actually rises; BUSTED again.I could literally spend the next month cussing and discussing all the old time weather fables and proverbs I found while writing this piece. To those of you who put stock in any of the rain predictors I cast doubt upon, I’m sorry to have rained on your parade (yes, most certainly pun intended) even though I’m certain some of these hold true some of the time. Ross even told me that his mom swears by an old tale that says it will rain 100 days after a fog; she even keeps track of it on her calendar. Maybe that will win me back some points and make you feel better again about your favorite weather tales knowing that the weather guy’s mom even believes them! …Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Of rain crows and sundogs

The Downtown Hays Development Corp. is working to bring an ice skating rink to downtown Hays this winter, but in order to make it happen, the group is asking the public for help.

"We have a GoFundMe page right now that we want to let everyone know about," said Sara Bloom, DHDC executive director. "Downtown Hays Development Corporation is trying to raise money to turn the downtown pavilion into an ice skating rink this winter.

"The premise behind this is we want to ensure that even if COVID is still a thing this winter — which we anticipate it being — that we have a family-friendly outdoor activity for people to enjoy all winter long where we can also regulate the crowd," Bloom said.

"It's around $35,000 to bring that in, so we are trying to raise $17,000 to $18,000 prior to committing to bringing that," Bloom said.

Ideally, that money would be raised in the next couple of weeks, she said.

"We started fundraising for it during our auction and now we have set up a GoFundMe page and we also have some business sponsorships available," Bloom said.

She said if everyone helps out a little, the project will come to fruition.

"If everybody that has shared the (Facebook) post gives just $5, we've got an ice skating rink," Bloom said.

Bloom said they anticipate an entry fee, but the amount will depend on the amount raised beforehand.

They also hope the rink can help raise funds for Ellis County organizations.

"We will charge something because we want it to be a fundraiser for not only downtown Hays, but for other nonprofits that we are going to be partnering with," Bloom said.

<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/downtown-hays-ice-skating-rink?utm_medium=copy_link&amp;utm_source=customer&amp;utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet">The GoFundMe page can be found by clicking here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600463704415.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="DHDC seeks donations to turn pavalion into skating rink this winter" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/haary-ec20a3?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth=&btn-skin=101"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe Downtown Hays Development Corp. is working to bring an ice skating rink to downtown Hays this winter, but in order to make it happen, the group is asking the public for help."We have a GoFundMe page right now that we want to let everyone know about," said Sara Bloom, DHDC executive director. "Downtown Hays Development Corporation is trying to raise money to turn the downtown pavilion into an ice skating rink this winter."The premise behind this is we want to ensure that even if COVID is still a thing this winter — which we anticipate it being — that we have a family-friendly outdoor activity for people to enjoy all winter long where we can also regulate the crowd," Bloom said.But that idea comes with a price tag."It's around $35,000 to bring that in, so we are trying to raise $17,000 to $18,000 prior to committing to bringing that," Bloom said.Ideally, that money would be raised in the next couple of weeks, she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600457803624.png" alt="A graphic shared on the DHDC Facebook page Friday shows a total of $1,300 raised toward a winter skating rink in the downtown pavilion." />
 <figcaption>A graphic shared on the DHDC Facebook page Friday shows a total of $1,300 raised toward a winter skating rink in the downtown pavilion.</figcaption>
 </figure>"We started fundraising for it during our auction and now we have set up a GoFundMe page and we also have some business sponsorships available," Bloom said.She said if everyone helps out a little, the project will come to fruition."If everybody that has shared the (Facebook) post gives just $5, we've got an ice skating rink," Bloom said.Bloom said they anticipate an entry fee, but the amount will depend on the amount raised beforehand.They also hope the rink can help raise funds for Ellis County organizations."We will charge something because we want it to be a fundraiser for not only downtown Hays, but for other nonprofits that we are going to be partnering with," Bloom said.<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/downtown-hays-ice-skating-rink?utm_medium=copy_link&amp;utm_source=customer&amp;utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet">The GoFundMe page can be found by clicking here.</a>

🎙 DHDC seeks donations to turn pavilion into skating rink this winter

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">The Hays Arts Council's website can be found here.</a>

<div><iframe title="New exhibitions on the way at the Hays Arts Council" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/b3drf-ec205b?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a><a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">The Hays Arts Council's website can be found here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: New exhibitions on the way at the Hays Arts Council

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Saturday rescinded a boil water advisory for
Ellis County Rural Water District 1C public water supply. The advisory was issued because of a
loss of pressure in the distribution system.


Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system
failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water
advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.


Laboratory testing samples collected from Ellis Co. RWD 1C 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, contact the water system or call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For
consumer information, visit <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage.&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586195747392.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Saturday rescinded a boil water advisory for
Ellis County Rural Water District 1C public water supply. The advisory was issued because of a
loss of pressure in the distribution system.
Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system
failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water
advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.
Laboratory testing samples collected from Ellis Co. RWD 1C 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, contact the water system or call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For
consumer information, visit <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage.&nbsp;</a>

Boil order rescinded for rural water district in Ellis Co. 

&nbsp;The Barton County Health Department has identified multiple positive cases of COVID-19 involving persons at Applebee’s Neighborhood Bar and Grill in Great Bend on Sunday, September 13 through Friday September 18, 2020. Individuals who visited Applebee’s Neighborhood Bar and Grill on those dates may have been exposed to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).&nbsp;

The Barton County Health Department encourages those who were at the above location during the identified days and times to monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days. Symptoms include fever, cough, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell, fatigue, diarrhea, and/or shortness of breath/difficulty breathing. If symptoms develop, please stay home and contact your health care provider for guidance on testing. In an emergency, please call 911and notify first responders that you were potentially exposed to COVID-19 and, if possible, wear a cloth face mask before they arrive.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595202434504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;The Barton County Health Department has identified multiple positive cases of COVID-19 involving persons at Applebee’s Neighborhood Bar and Grill in Great Bend on Sunday, September 13 through Friday September 18, 2020. Individuals who visited Applebee’s Neighborhood Bar and Grill on those dates may have been exposed to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).&nbsp;The Barton County Health Department encourages those who were at the above location during the identified days and times to monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days. Symptoms include fever, cough, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell, fatigue, diarrhea, and/or shortness of breath/difficulty breathing. If symptoms develop, please stay home and contact your health care provider for guidance on testing. In an emergency, please call 911and notify first responders that you were potentially exposed to COVID-19 and, if possible, wear a cloth face mask before they arrive.&nbsp;

Possible COVID-19 exposure at Applebee's in Great Bend

At 1:50 p.m. Friday, a 911 call was received reporting a two-vehicle injury
accident located at the intersection of 110th Avenue and Fairground Road in Ellis County.


Deputies determined Kolton Keller, 17, was driving westbound on Fairground Road approaching
the controlled intersection of 110th Avenue. Terrance Kohl, 79, was driving northbound on 110th
Avenue with his 93-year-old passenger Evelyn Kohl, also approaching the
controlled intersection. 

As both vehicles entered the intersection, the sheriff's office reported Keller failed to yield for a posted
stop sign at 110th Avenue. Keller’s vehicle collided with the passenger side of the Kohls' vehicle sending it
into the northwest ditch. Keller’s vehicle continued westerly through the intersection and ended up on
its drivers side.

Emergency personnel responded and declared Evelyn Kohl deceased on scene. Keller and Terrance Kohl were transported by Ellis County EMS to HaysMed for medical treatment. All three accident victims were/are Ellis residents.

The accident is still under investigation by the Ellis County Sheriff's Office and the 23rd Judicial District
Coroner's Office. This will be the ELSO's final media release regarding this incident. Anyone needing
further information is encouraged to contact our office to speak to the case investigator directly.

At 1:50 p.m. Friday, a 911 call was received reporting a two-vehicle injury accident located at the intersection of 110th Avenue and Fairground Road in Ellis County.

Emergency personnel responded and declared the passenger of one of the involved vehicles — a 93-year-old female — deceased on scene. A 17-year-male and a 79-year-old male were transported by Ellis County EMS to HaysMed for medical treatment. All three accident victims were/are Ellis residents.

The fatality accident is still under investigation by the Ellis County Sheriff's Office and the 23rd Judicial District Coroner's Office. The name of the decedent and those involved are intentionally being withheld pending notification of next of kin. First responders from Ellis County Emergency Medical Service, Ellis County Rural Fire, and Ellis Police Department also responded to assist with the scene.

The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office will release more details in a future media release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600444921352.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County Sheriff's OfficeAt 1:50 p.m. Friday, a 911 call was received reporting a two-vehicle injury
accident located at the intersection of 110th Avenue and Fairground Road in Ellis County.
Deputies determined Kolton Keller, 17, was driving westbound on Fairground Road approaching
the controlled intersection of 110th Avenue. Terrance Kohl, 79, was driving northbound on 110th
Avenue with his 93-year-old passenger Evelyn Kohl, also approaching the
controlled intersection. As both vehicles entered the intersection, the sheriff's office reported Keller failed to yield for a posted
stop sign at 110th Avenue. Keller’s vehicle collided with the passenger side of the Kohls' vehicle sending it
into the northwest ditch. Keller’s vehicle continued westerly through the intersection and ended up on
its drivers side.Emergency personnel responded and declared Evelyn Kohl deceased on scene. Keller and Terrance Kohl were transported by Ellis County EMS to HaysMed for medical treatment. All three accident victims were/are Ellis residents.The accident is still under investigation by the Ellis County Sheriff's Office and the 23rd Judicial District
Coroner's Office. This will be the ELSO's final media release regarding this incident. Anyone needing
further information is encouraged to contact our office to speak to the case investigator directly.----------------------Original release:&nbsp;At 1:50 p.m. Friday, a 911 call was received reporting a two-vehicle injury accident located at the intersection of 110th Avenue and Fairground Road in Ellis County.Emergency personnel responded and declared the passenger of one of the involved vehicles — a 93-year-old female — deceased on scene. A 17-year-male and a 79-year-old male were transported by Ellis County EMS to HaysMed for medical treatment. All three accident victims were/are Ellis residents.The fatality accident is still under investigation by the Ellis County Sheriff's Office and the 23rd Judicial District Coroner's Office. The name of the decedent and those involved are intentionally being withheld pending notification of next of kin. First responders from Ellis County Emergency Medical Service, Ellis County Rural Fire, and Ellis Police Department also responded to assist with the scene.The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office will release more details in a future media release.

Update: Sheriff's office IDs victim in Friday fatal accident

We are excited to announce that there are now MORE WAYS to watch Smoky Hills PBS!&nbsp; Still for FREE and available now anywhere you watch by downloading the PBS app on Android mobile, Amazon Fire tablets, iOS, tvOS, and Chromecast in addition to ROKU,&nbsp;<a href="http://pbs.org/">PBS.org</a>&nbsp;or by visiting the link here:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream">https://video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream</a>

“Being able to stream our channel, Smoky Hills PBS, LIVE is a huge step for us and our viewers,” said Amanda Smith, Smoky Hills PBS Marketing Director. “Our viewers in central and western Kansas can now access Smoky Hills PBS with just a click of a button, giving everyone free local and national programming that can’t be found anywhere else!”

To access Smoky Hills PBS LIVE on your smartphone or smart TV, first download the PBS video app.&nbsp; Make sure you have selected Smoky Hills PBS as your local PBS station within the PBS video app. Then, simply click on the LIVE TV button and push play.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In addition to LIVE streaming, PBS and PBS KIDS content is available on all platforms including&nbsp;<a href="http://pbs.org/">PBS.org</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://pbskids.org/">PBSKIDS.org</a>, as well as the PBS Video app and PBS KIDS Video app available on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung TV and Chromecast.&nbsp; Smoky Hills PBS members are also able to view an extended library of quality public television programming via Smoky Hills PBS Passport (contact Smoky Hills PBS for details).

If you have questions about the Smoky Hills PBS live streaming, reach email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:shptv@shptv.org">shptv@shptv.org</a>&nbsp;or call 800.337.4788.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578663876107.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>SHPTVWe are excited to announce that there are now MORE WAYS to watch Smoky Hills PBS!&nbsp; Still for FREE and available now anywhere you watch by downloading the PBS app on Android mobile, Amazon Fire tablets, iOS, tvOS, and Chromecast in addition to ROKU,&nbsp;<a href="http://pbs.org/">PBS.org</a>&nbsp;or by visiting the link here:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream">https://video.smokyhillstv.org/livestream</a>“Being able to stream our channel, Smoky Hills PBS, LIVE is a huge step for us and our viewers,” said Amanda Smith, Smoky Hills PBS Marketing Director. “Our viewers in central and western Kansas can now access Smoky Hills PBS with just a click of a button, giving everyone free local and national programming that can’t be found anywhere else!”To access Smoky Hills PBS LIVE on your smartphone or smart TV, first download the PBS video app.&nbsp; Make sure you have selected Smoky Hills PBS as your local PBS station within the PBS video app. Then, simply click on the LIVE TV button and push play.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition to LIVE streaming, PBS and PBS KIDS content is available on all platforms including&nbsp;<a href="http://pbs.org/">PBS.org</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://pbskids.org/">PBSKIDS.org</a>, as well as the PBS Video app and PBS KIDS Video app available on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung TV and Chromecast.&nbsp; Smoky Hills PBS members are also able to view an extended library of quality public television programming via Smoky Hills PBS Passport (contact Smoky Hills PBS for details).If you have questions about the Smoky Hills PBS live streaming, reach email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:shptv@shptv.org">shptv@shptv.org</a>&nbsp;or call 800.337.4788.— Submitted

Smoky Hills PBS is now streaming live

"Things are going better than I ever could have expected," said&nbsp;Rachel Wentling, Holy Family Elementary principal, about the 2020-21 school year.

While the Catholic elementary school has had to adapt the year to the ongoing pandemic, now that the year has begun, students and staff are focusing less on the mitigation measures that were put into place and more on creating a learning environment that is as close to normal as possible.

"Getting this school year off the ground has been harder than usual," Wentling said. "I often compare the beginning of the school year to the launching of a space shuttle. Despite all of our other complications, this year has been especially difficult, but after we have gotten started it is going much better than I ever expected."

Getting the mitigation measures in place was the biggest challenge while preparing for the year.

"In order for us to be able to have school in person, we had to implement a lot of mitigation strategies," Wentling said. "That has taken a lot of work by a lot of people in my building."

Given building limitations, they worked to find the safest way to provide the best education possible for the students — requiring effort from the entire staff.

"We were not able to distance the students the full six feet that most people recommended," Wentling said. "So were are using all kinds of different strategies to help us."

But overall, the students have adapted well to those measures she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600289353104.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><div><iframe title="So far so good; Holy Family Elementary kicks off year" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/rb2cc-ebd43f?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth=&btn-skin=101"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays Post"Things are going better than I ever could have expected," said&nbsp;Rachel Wentling, Holy Family Elementary principal, about the 2020-21 school year.While the Catholic elementary school has had to adapt the year to the ongoing pandemic, now that the year has begun, students and staff are focusing less on the mitigation measures that were put into place and more on creating a learning environment that is as close to normal as possible."Getting this school year off the ground has been harder than usual," Wentling said. "I often compare the beginning of the school year to the launching of a space shuttle. Despite all of our other complications, this year has been especially difficult, but after we have gotten started it is going much better than I ever expected."Getting the mitigation measures in place was the biggest challenge while preparing for the year."In order for us to be able to have school in person, we had to implement a lot of mitigation strategies," Wentling said. "That has taken a lot of work by a lot of people in my building."Given building limitations, they worked to find the safest way to provide the best education possible for the students — requiring effort from the entire staff."We were not able to distance the students the full six feet that most people recommended," Wentling said. "So were are using all kinds of different strategies to help us."But overall, the students have adapted well to those measures she said."I don't want to say it feels normal," Wentling said. "I don't ever want to say it feels normal, but I think it is becoming a little more normed, in that (the mitigation measures) are no longer the focus."The students and staff she said are beginning to focus more on interaction and academics than the novelty of the mitigation measures."Our students have adapted beautifully and we are starting to see what their normal orneriness come out," Wentling said. "That's not at all a bad thing. That means that if their normal orneriness is coming out then these things that we had to put in place that everybody was so worried about are beginning to fade into the background."She said while the year is settling in, they are still answering some questions and are not sure when thing will completely return to normal.And they are also looking for ways to continue to improve the year with the measures in place."I think the general consensus is that it feels good," Wentling said.While most students returned to in-person learning at the beginning of the year, a few opted for a remote learning environment.For those students, the school partnered with the Smoky Valley Virtual Charter school in Lindsborg.&nbsp;"We already had a working relationship with them on some other school-related programs," Wentling said. "So they were able to us with those virtual online students."While students working remotely are enrolled in both Holy Family and the charter school, some services are being provided by Holy Family, including monitoring test-taking.Students who are temporarily out of class due to coronavirus exposure or mandated isolation also work virtually with their classroom teacher in order to stay caught up with their class.So far, Wentling said some students have already had to quarantine this year, but there have been no confirmed cases in the school.If a case does get confirmed, they are ready to adjust as needed to keep the year on track."We are going to do everything we can to keep the kids in class," Wentling said.