The Hays Symphony invites the community to its
opening concert of the 2024-25 season on Saturday, September 28, at 7:30 p.m.
in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. Themed as “Dark Whimsy,” the
concert repertoire includes delightfully stark yet dreamlike compositions from
Shostakovich, Bacewicz, and Beethoven. 

In “Dark Whimsy,” passion and nostalgia meld
into a contemplation of things past where the idyllic and surreal cross the
sinister. Cello virtuoso and FHSU music faculty member Ben Cline will feature
as a soloist in Shostakovich’s brooding and off-kilter Cello Concerto No. 2.

Ben Cline himself explains more about his
experience preparing for the concerto in a recent video interview. “There’s an
interesting quality to this piece,” said Cline. “Shostakovich wrote it in the
last decade of his life. It’s true of a lot of composers, especially composers
of his stature, that they keep reinventing themselves—that they keep pushing
their style forward.” 

He continues to add: “But as they do that into
the latter part of their career, there’s a lot of introspection. This piece has
those elements in it. It is nostalgic in a way. There’s a sense of sorrow in it
. . .” (The full video interview can be found on the Hays Symphony’s official
Facebook and Instagram pages.)

Two additional pieces contribute to Music
Director Brian Buckstead’s vision of “Dark Whimsy.” The concert opener, Grażyna
Bacewicz’s Overture, offers the
energy and volume of an entire symphony packed within its short six minutes.
Bacewicz completed her Overture in
1943 during the German occupation of Poland. However, the Overture would not see its performance until after Poland’s
liberation from the Nazis in 1945. Despite her prolific background, Bacewicz
has received little attention in the United States—until recently.

The other highlight of the concert is
Beethoven’s playful yet fiery Symphony
No. 8. Driven by interpersonal and romantic troubles, Beethoven reflects
the equally unpredictable sways of passion and human emotion in his lively and
witty Eighth Symphony.

Following the concert, attendees are welcome
to mingle with the musicians at the post-concert reception in the hall’s lobby.
This dessert reception is sponsored by a generous donation from the Hays Area
Bicyclists. 

Over the summer, various players in the
orchestra provided musical entertainment for the Hays Area Bicyclists’
successful “Tour Die Kapellen.” Concert-goers can learn more about this “Tour
of the Chapels” and how to participate on the Hays Area Bicyclists’ website.

Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets
for future concerts in advance on the symphony’s website at <a href="https://www.hayssymphony.org">https://www.hayssymphony.org</a>
where they can also make donations to sustain free classical music in the Hays
community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726774801274.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays Symphony invites the community to its
opening concert of the 2024-25 season on Saturday, September 28, at 7:30 p.m.
in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. Themed as “Dark Whimsy,” the
concert repertoire includes delightfully stark yet dreamlike compositions from
Shostakovich, Bacewicz, and Beethoven. In “Dark Whimsy,” passion and nostalgia meld
into a contemplation of things past where the idyllic and surreal cross the
sinister. Cello virtuoso and FHSU music faculty member Ben Cline will feature
as a soloist in Shostakovich’s brooding and off-kilter Cello Concerto No. 2.Ben Cline himself explains more about his
experience preparing for the concerto in a recent video interview. “There’s an
interesting quality to this piece,” said Cline. “Shostakovich wrote it in the
last decade of his life. It’s true of a lot of composers, especially composers
of his stature, that they keep reinventing themselves—that they keep pushing
their style forward.” He continues to add: “But as they do that into
the latter part of their career, there’s a lot of introspection. This piece has
those elements in it. It is nostalgic in a way. There’s a sense of sorrow in it
. . .” (The full video interview can be found on the Hays Symphony’s official
Facebook and Instagram pages.)Two additional pieces contribute to Music
Director Brian Buckstead’s vision of “Dark Whimsy.” The concert opener, Grażyna
Bacewicz’s Overture, offers the
energy and volume of an entire symphony packed within its short six minutes.
Bacewicz completed her Overture in
1943 during the German occupation of Poland. However, the Overture would not see its performance until after Poland’s
liberation from the Nazis in 1945. Despite her prolific background, Bacewicz
has received little attention in the United States—until recently.The other highlight of the concert is
Beethoven’s playful yet fiery Symphony
No. 8. Driven by interpersonal and romantic troubles, Beethoven reflects
the equally unpredictable sways of passion and human emotion in his lively and
witty Eighth Symphony. Following the concert, attendees are welcome
to mingle with the musicians at the post-concert reception in the hall’s lobby.
This dessert reception is sponsored by a generous donation from the Hays Area
Bicyclists. Over the summer, various players in the
orchestra provided musical entertainment for the Hays Area Bicyclists’
successful “Tour Die Kapellen.” Concert-goers can learn more about this “Tour
of the Chapels” and how to participate on the Hays Area Bicyclists’ website.Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets
for future concerts in advance on the symphony’s website at <a href="https://www.hayssymphony.org">https://www.hayssymphony.org</a>
where they can also make donations to sustain free classical music in the Hays
community.

Hays Symphony opens season with September’s Dark Whimsy

Grain Belt Express, or GBE, is a renewable energy project owned by Chicago-based Invenergy Transmission LLC. It is a 780-mile line scheduled to originate in Kansas, run through Missouri and Illinois, and connect to the electric power grid in Indiana. From there, power will allegedly be transmitted to the Northeastern United States, even though Invenergy has no signed customers to date.

There’s a serious problem with how this project is being presented to the public. A great divide exists between the PR hype about the advanced technology needed to create a new energy future for America and the actual execution of Grain Belt Express as it pertains to construction. Specifically, renewable energy will be generated by wind and solar farms, but the power coming from these energy nodes will be transported using technology invented in the late nineteenth century. The towers —steel girders that support four to eight high-voltage power lines — are 160 feet tall and are anchored in concrete bases approximately forty to sixty feet wide.

The basic architectural design of the towers hasn’t changed in approximately 130 years. Invenergy, however, claims that Grain Belt Express will revolutionize the energy grid by ushering in a new, clean, green source of power that will extend into the twenty-second century. The “disconnect” is that the transmission of wind and solar power is (and will continue to be) accomplished using archaic technology.

The websites for Grain Belt Express and Invenergy describe both companies as innovators in renewable energy technology. They claim that the companies are involved in bringing new power “… in every aspect of project design, construction, and operations ….” And yet, the idea of transmitting electricity via direct current (DC) goes as far back as Thomas Edison’s idea on energy transmission. Furthermore, Grain Belt Express and Invenergy admit that America has an “aging energy infrastructure in the Midwest.” This is certainly true, but infrastructure is not just comprised of the lines; it primarily consists of the steel towers. There is nothing innovative about outdated towers used in centuries past. They represent old designs and old construction methods, and the nature of electricity, of course, hasn’t changed either. Invenergy has no new design, construction, or operation of its transmission infrastructure.

The towers have a lifespan of approximately forty to sixty years. During that time, they need constant maintenance because of high winds, tornadoes, hurricanes, and wildfires. The main reason towers need maintenance, however, is because the steel girders suffer stress fatigue and chemical erosion early in their lifespan. In other words, they crack, rust, and crumble. Even the nuts and bolts that hold different sections together begin to loosen, rust, and fall to the ground. Does this sound like cutting-edge technology to build a new American energy grid?

Additionally, lines and towers scar the landscape and threaten the environment. High-voltage lines cause many wildfires every year because of lightning strikes and arcing, which is when an electrical discharge moves from the lines to the ground. The towers can be seriously damaged and even fall over in high winds, and icing during blizzards put extreme stress on sagging lines. Add to this that the land is seriously compromised during the construction phase by oils, lubricants, and other chemicals that are contaminants to the soil, grasses, shrubbery, and trees within a mile of the project. These hazardous chemicals can remain in the soil for years, and they also pollute nearby aquifers and water tables. Also, gas and exhaust from machinery pose a threat to human health.

This method of construction does not represent twenty-first century technology. Towers using a design conceived in the nineteenth century cannot be equated with the innovations touted by Invenergy, which promises new infrastructure and advanced technology. Slick company PR about a new energy future is merely hype, unless it wants to go all in and actually create a new infrastructure as well.

There is indeed a way to transmit electricity with twenty-first century technology, and it’s called co-location. Lines are buried along highways and railroad lines, areas where eminent domain has already been invoked. While the process may be slightly more expensive than building steel towers, the savings accrued from less maintenance and repair are considerable. Co-location pays for itself in less than ten years. And depending on the terrain, co-location is often cheaper than building towers in the first place. It’s a win-win situation for energy needs, corporations, and landowners. I’ve written on co-location in great detail, and you can learn more about it at <a href="http://www.StopEminentDomainAbuse.org">www.StopEminentDomainAbuse.org.</a>

Invenergy is already using co-location in many areas in the United States and around the world. The question is why it is avoiding this advanced technology in the Midwest. The answer is that older construction methods are cheaper. Invenergy, like most merchant energy lines, eventually intends to sell the project to other companies, on whom the burden will fall to maintain the lines and towers.

If Invenergy and Grain Belt Express wished to honor their pledge to create a new energy future, they wouldn’t be using old technology when using co-location along existing rights-of-way could easily be accomplished. Twenty-first century power needs twenty-first century construction methods and infrastructure. It’s that simple.

— Tammy Hammond Founder and CEO, Rosewood Services

Grain Belt Express, or GBE, is a renewable energy project owned by Chicago-based Invenergy Transmission LLC. It is a 780-mile line scheduled to originate in Kansas, run through Missouri and Illinois, and connect to the electric power grid in Indiana. From there, power will allegedly be transmitted to the Northeastern United States, even though Invenergy has no signed customers to date.There’s a serious problem with how this project is being presented to the public. A great divide exists between the PR hype about the advanced technology needed to create a new energy future for America and the actual execution of Grain Belt Express as it pertains to construction. Specifically, renewable energy will be generated by wind and solar farms, but the power coming from these energy nodes will be transported using technology invented in the late nineteenth century. The towers —steel girders that support four to eight high-voltage power lines — are 160 feet tall and are anchored in concrete bases approximately forty to sixty feet wide.The basic architectural design of the towers hasn’t changed in approximately 130 years. Invenergy, however, claims that Grain Belt Express will revolutionize the energy grid by ushering in a new, clean, green source of power that will extend into the twenty-second century. The “disconnect” is that the transmission of wind and solar power is (and will continue to be) accomplished using archaic technology.The websites for Grain Belt Express and Invenergy describe both companies as innovators in renewable energy technology. They claim that the companies are involved in bringing new power “… in every aspect of project design, construction, and operations ….” And yet, the idea of transmitting electricity via direct current (DC) goes as far back as Thomas Edison’s idea on energy transmission. Furthermore, Grain Belt Express and Invenergy admit that America has an “aging energy infrastructure in the Midwest.” This is certainly true, but infrastructure is not just comprised of the lines; it primarily consists of the steel towers. There is nothing innovative about outdated towers used in centuries past. They represent old designs and old construction methods, and the nature of electricity, of course, hasn’t changed either. Invenergy has no new design, construction, or operation of its transmission infrastructure.The towers have a lifespan of approximately forty to sixty years. During that time, they need constant maintenance because of high winds, tornadoes, hurricanes, and wildfires. The main reason towers need maintenance, however, is because the steel girders suffer stress fatigue and chemical erosion early in their lifespan. In other words, they crack, rust, and crumble. Even the nuts and bolts that hold different sections together begin to loosen, rust, and fall to the ground. Does this sound like cutting-edge technology to build a new American energy grid?Additionally, lines and towers scar the landscape and threaten the environment. High-voltage lines cause many wildfires every year because of lightning strikes and arcing, which is when an electrical discharge moves from the lines to the ground. The towers can be seriously damaged and even fall over in high winds, and icing during blizzards put extreme stress on sagging lines. Add to this that the land is seriously compromised during the construction phase by oils, lubricants, and other chemicals that are contaminants to the soil, grasses, shrubbery, and trees within a mile of the project. These hazardous chemicals can remain in the soil for years, and they also pollute nearby aquifers and water tables. Also, gas and exhaust from machinery pose a threat to human health.This method of construction does not represent twenty-first century technology. Towers using a design conceived in the nineteenth century cannot be equated with the innovations touted by Invenergy, which promises new infrastructure and advanced technology. Slick company PR about a new energy future is merely hype, unless it wants to go all in and actually create a new infrastructure as well.There is indeed a way to transmit electricity with twenty-first century technology, and it’s called co-location. Lines are buried along highways and railroad lines, areas where eminent domain has already been invoked. While the process may be slightly more expensive than building steel towers, the savings accrued from less maintenance and repair are considerable. Co-location pays for itself in less than ten years. And depending on the terrain, co-location is often cheaper than building towers in the first place. It’s a win-win situation for energy needs, corporations, and landowners. I’ve written on co-location in great detail, and you can learn more about it at <a href="http://www.StopEminentDomainAbuse.org">www.StopEminentDomainAbuse.org.</a>Invenergy is already using co-location in many areas in the United States and around the world. The question is why it is avoiding this advanced technology in the Midwest. The answer is that older construction methods are cheaper. Invenergy, like most merchant energy lines, eventually intends to sell the project to other companies, on whom the burden will fall to maintain the lines and towers.If Invenergy and Grain Belt Express wished to honor their pledge to create a new energy future, they wouldn’t be using old technology when using co-location along existing rights-of-way could easily be accomplished. Twenty-first century power needs twenty-first century construction methods and infrastructure. It’s that simple.— Tammy Hammond Founder and CEO, Rosewood Services

LETTER: Great Bend business owner questions energy proposal

Due to recent law changes Ellis
County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling would like to inform the public per K.S.A. 25-305,
a person who wishes to run as a write-in candidate for national, state, county
or first class city office, must file an affidavit of write-in candidacy in order
to have those votes tabulated.

A first Class City is a city with a population of more than 15,000 (all Ellis County city races are exempt from this statute).&nbsp;

The affidavit for national and state candidates
must be filed with the Secretary of State. The affidavit for county and first
class city candidates must be filed with the county election officer.&nbsp;

The deadline to file the
affidavits is the fourth Monday before Election Day—Monday, Oct. 14 for the
General Election.

Write-in candidates for township
office are not required to file an affidavit. All votes will be counted in
those races.

The Affidavit for Write-In
Candidacy is available through the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasSecretaryofState?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZVmg8WiEDhnql2dieNSKrdmRuIJ220R2IqzD3OhneZrK-gKrZOnCqt8t9KxYJoMWJbEJyq8stZeot64VgrROzkhOpA6nga22Uo0JENtFgEGRTK_s5UiMEH-5g_BJJ0iuH_V9onuM3HxE2UlMJm9pzKN21b2n0brLgz3-bfDbobfO70IDyoXZq_W-SqQOLNOYkvt_z8aF7hmHoGzHRjf-Hb7&amp;__tn__=-%5dK-R" target="_blank">Kansas Secretary of State</a>'s Office or the County Clerk's Office.

If you have any questions, contact the Ellis County County Clerk’s office at 785-628-9410.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646335925302.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedDue to recent law changes Ellis
County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling would like to inform the public per K.S.A. 25-305,
a person who wishes to run as a write-in candidate for national, state, county
or first class city office, must file an affidavit of write-in candidacy in order
to have those votes tabulated.A first Class City is a city with a population of more than 15,000 (all Ellis County city races are exempt from this statute).&nbsp;The affidavit for national and state candidates
must be filed with the Secretary of State. The affidavit for county and first
class city candidates must be filed with the county election officer.&nbsp;The deadline to file the
affidavits is the fourth Monday before Election Day—Monday, Oct. 14 for the
General Election.Write-in candidates for township
office are not required to file an affidavit. All votes will be counted in
those races.The Affidavit for Write-In
Candidacy is available through the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasSecretaryofState?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZVmg8WiEDhnql2dieNSKrdmRuIJ220R2IqzD3OhneZrK-gKrZOnCqt8t9KxYJoMWJbEJyq8stZeot64VgrROzkhOpA6nga22Uo0JENtFgEGRTK_s5UiMEH-5g_BJJ0iuH_V9onuM3HxE2UlMJm9pzKN21b2n0brLgz3-bfDbobfO70IDyoXZq_W-SqQOLNOYkvt_z8aF7hmHoGzHRjf-Hb7&amp;__tn__=-%5dK-R" target="_blank">Kansas Secretary of State</a>'s Office or the County Clerk's Office.If you have any questions, contact the Ellis County County Clerk’s office at 785-628-9410.

Write-in candidates must file an affidavit of candidacy

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726775247034.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about property taxes.

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays director discusses property taxes" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=i5kp3-16dab3e-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about property taxes.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays director discusses property taxes

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726778020097.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726778039048.jpeg" alt="september192024sept-images-1.jpg" />
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 </figure>

FHSU crime log Sept. 13-19, 2024

TMP-Marian High School in Hays is pleased to announce Homecoming Court 2024.&nbsp;

Pictured above from left to right are:&nbsp;

Adler Brown and Chloe Purinton – Adler is the son of Clayton (Class of 1989) and Jennifer Brown; Chloe is the daughter of Royce and Megan Purinton.&nbsp;

Ryan Casey and Tessa Wentling – Ryan is the son of Spencer and Michelle Casey; Tessa is the daughter of Trey and Rachel (Class of 1995)(Reynolds) Wentling.&nbsp;

William Robinson and Gracyn Schippers – William is the son of Noelle Robinson (Class of 1995) and Nick Wolgamuth; Gracyn is the daughter of Troy and Geralyn Schippers.&nbsp;

Jake Brady and Paige Schlyer – Jake is the son of Bryan and Courtney Brady; Paige is the daughter of Mike and Michelle (Class of 1997) (Hertel) Schlyer.&nbsp;

Jace Windholz and Shyanne Yost – Jace is the son of Dan and Melissa Windholz; Shyanne is the daughter of Greg and Candace Yost.&nbsp;

The 2024 homecoming king and queen will be crowned at halftime of the homecoming football game on Friday, Sept. 27, at Lewis Field, when the TMP-M Monarchs take on the Stanton County Trojans at 7 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For a full list of Homecoming activities, visit&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/homecoming">https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/homecoming&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726777309643.png" alt="TMP-Marian Homecoming Court 2024. From left to right are Chloe Purinton, Adler Brown, Tessa Wentling, Ryan Casey, Gracyn Schippers, William Robinson,&nbsp;Paige Schlyer, Jake Brady,&nbsp;Shyanne Yost, and&nbsp; Jace Windholz. Photo courtesy TMP-M&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>TMP-Marian Homecoming Court 2024. From left to right are Chloe Purinton, Adler Brown, Tessa Wentling, Ryan Casey, Gracyn Schippers, William Robinson,&nbsp;Paige Schlyer, Jake Brady,&nbsp;Shyanne Yost, and&nbsp; Jace Windholz. Photo courtesy TMP-M&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian TMP-Marian High School in Hays is pleased to announce Homecoming Court 2024.&nbsp;Pictured above from left to right are:&nbsp;Adler Brown and Chloe Purinton – Adler is the son of Clayton (Class of 1989) and Jennifer Brown; Chloe is the daughter of Royce and Megan Purinton.&nbsp;Ryan Casey and Tessa Wentling – Ryan is the son of Spencer and Michelle Casey; Tessa is the daughter of Trey and Rachel (Class of 1995)(Reynolds) Wentling.&nbsp;William Robinson and Gracyn Schippers – William is the son of Noelle Robinson (Class of 1995) and Nick Wolgamuth; Gracyn is the daughter of Troy and Geralyn Schippers.&nbsp;Jake Brady and Paige Schlyer – Jake is the son of Bryan and Courtney Brady; Paige is the daughter of Mike and Michelle (Class of 1997) (Hertel) Schlyer.&nbsp;Jace Windholz and Shyanne Yost – Jace is the son of Dan and Melissa Windholz; Shyanne is the daughter of Greg and Candace Yost.&nbsp;The 2024 homecoming king and queen will be crowned at halftime of the homecoming football game on Friday, Sept. 27, at Lewis Field, when the TMP-M Monarchs take on the Stanton County Trojans at 7 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For a full list of Homecoming activities, visit&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/homecoming">https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/homecoming&nbsp;</a>Go Monarchs!&nbsp;

TMP-Marian announces Homecoming Court 2024

HODGMAN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Thursday in Hodgeman County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Sterling Straight Truck driven by Aaron Anthony&nbsp;Lari, 44, Ness City, was northbound on Hodgeman County 216 Road approaching Kansas 156. 

As the truck started to cross Kansas 156, it struck a westbound 2009 Chevy Silverado driven by Cain Villalobos-Hernandez, 34, Great Bend. After impact, the Chevy came to rest on 216 Road north of Kansas 156.&nbsp;&nbsp;

EMS transported Villalobos-Hernandez to the Hodgeman County Hospital and a passenger in the pickup Jessica Juana Villalobos, 40, Great Bend, to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. Lari was not injured.&nbsp; All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

HODGMAN COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Thursday in Hodgeman County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Sterling Straight Truck driven by Aaron Anthony&nbsp;Lari, 44, Ness City, was northbound on Hodgeman County 216 Road approaching Kansas 156. As the truck started to cross Kansas 156, it struck a westbound 2009 Chevy Silverado driven by Cain Villalobos-Hernandez, 34, Great Bend. After impact, the Chevy came to rest on 216 Road north of Kansas 156.&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS transported Villalobos-Hernandez to the Hodgeman County Hospital and a passenger in the pickup Jessica Juana Villalobos, 40, Great Bend, to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. Lari was not injured.&nbsp; All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas couple hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Bazine public water supply system located in Ness County. 

The advisory was issued because the city could not maintain the minimum required chlorine residual. Failure to maintain required chlorine residual levels may put the system at risk for bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

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 the City of Bazine 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. &nbsp;

For consumer questions, please contact the Bazine water system at: 785-398-2495 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514.

 For consumer information please visit our PWS Consumer Information webpage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606239441132.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Bazine public water supply system located in Ness County. The advisory was issued because the city could not maintain the minimum required chlorine residual. Failure to maintain required chlorine residual levels may put the system at risk for bacterial contamination.&nbsp;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 the City of Bazine 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. &nbsp;For consumer questions, please contact the Bazine water system at: 785-398-2495 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit our PWS Consumer Information webpage.

KDHE: Boil Water Advisory rescinded for Bazine in Ness County

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a do not drink advisory for the Hays Country View Mobile Home Park,&nbsp;2300 E. 7th St.,&nbsp; public water supply system located in Ellis County. 

The advisory was issued because of the water system was using an unpermitted well resulting in unknown water quality.&nbsp;

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.

Repairs have been completed and laboratory testing samples collected from the Country View Mobile Home Park 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. &nbsp;

For consumer questions, please contact the Hays water system at: 785-625-7774 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. 

For consumer information please visit our PWS Consumer Information webpage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621008205705.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a do not drink advisory for the Hays Country View Mobile Home Park,&nbsp;2300 E. 7th St.,&nbsp; public water supply system located in Ellis County. The advisory was issued because of the water system was using an unpermitted well resulting in unknown water quality.&nbsp;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.Repairs have been completed and laboratory testing samples collected from the Country View Mobile Home Park 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. &nbsp;For consumer questions, please contact the Hays water system at: 785-625-7774 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit our PWS Consumer Information webpage.

Water safe to drink again at Hays Country View Mobile Home Park, says KDHE

The Hays Police Department released the following press release at about 8:50 a.m. Thursday morning.

On Sept. 18th at 6:13 p.m., the Hays Police Department began receiving multiple reports of a social media post being shared in and around Hays about a possible school shooting.

The Hays Police Department immediately began investigating these reports.

During the course of this investigation, we were able to identify the person that started sharing the message locally.

The person admitted that they saw the original message on a social media platform and were concerned by it.

While the message did have <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/kansas?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZVUG2pnhcqskbnxAOfVWxC6_YvmY-iHnCeSxh6mtFJT2U5nYQlPTAqg4HVXpwBMbMdv5-nJh9Oql-pieiFfrtuQ7AvJf2aCNCvQmGtwT-5LEnRTcMn3gvTCbJK3iJn4uvKL4b5VWO_nSi-81kFYyXLiO38m9zcYW5yct4dQV_BC1_-RNrZizbfVFo2Fe-ZPw2u8iMg5VRLtkyT-bwDt-9j5FCLfBvJikorepLizq4fagg&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#kansas</a> on it, there was no mention of Hays or any other community.

The person took a screenshot of the message and sent it to friends.

 Unfortunately, this message quickly spread throughout the community as people began sharing the message with their friends.

While at this time we do not know who created the original message, the threat appears to be a part of a broader online trend being seen across Kansas and the country.

At this time the Hays Police Department is not aware of credible threats against any Hays Schools, staff, or students.

While there is no connection to any schools in Hays the Hays Police Department has worked alongside USD 489 school officials to notify parents and community members of the results of this investigation.

The Hays Police Department and the USD 489 Staff take every threat seriously and will continue to partner to ensure the safety of students and staff and the community. 

We encourage parents to remind your child to immediately report information about any school safety-related incident(s) to administrators/staff and/or the Hays Police Department.

Hays Police DepartmentThe Hays Police Department released the following press release at about 8:50 a.m. Thursday morning.-----On Sept. 18th at 6:13 p.m., the Hays Police Department began receiving multiple reports of a social media post being shared in and around Hays about a possible school shooting.The Hays Police Department immediately began investigating these reports.During the course of this investigation, we were able to identify the person that started sharing the message locally.The person admitted that they saw the original message on a social media platform and were concerned by it.While the message did have <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/kansas?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZVUG2pnhcqskbnxAOfVWxC6_YvmY-iHnCeSxh6mtFJT2U5nYQlPTAqg4HVXpwBMbMdv5-nJh9Oql-pieiFfrtuQ7AvJf2aCNCvQmGtwT-5LEnRTcMn3gvTCbJK3iJn4uvKL4b5VWO_nSi-81kFYyXLiO38m9zcYW5yct4dQV_BC1_-RNrZizbfVFo2Fe-ZPw2u8iMg5VRLtkyT-bwDt-9j5FCLfBvJikorepLizq4fagg&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#kansas</a> on it, there was no mention of Hays or any other community.The person took a screenshot of the message and sent it to friends. Unfortunately, this message quickly spread throughout the community as people began sharing the message with their friends.While at this time we do not know who created the original message, the threat appears to be a part of a broader online trend being seen across Kansas and the country.At this time the Hays Police Department is not aware of credible threats against any Hays Schools, staff, or students.While there is no connection to any schools in Hays the Hays Police Department has worked alongside USD 489 school officials to notify parents and community members of the results of this investigation.The Hays Police Department and the USD 489 Staff take every threat seriously and will continue to partner to ensure the safety of students and staff and the community. We encourage parents to remind your child to immediately report information about any school safety-related incident(s) to administrators/staff and/or the Hays Police Department.

Hays police report no credible school threat at this time

🎥 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Tori Ruder of Hays became a child care provider six years ago because she was struggling to find child care for her own children.

"Opening a day care allowed me to stay home with my kids while also caring for and loving other children," Tori said. "I wanted to create a safe and nurturing environment for kids to grow. I've always aspired to have a career working with children."

Tori was nominated by her husband and mother-in-law for the Child Care Champion award for August.

Her husband, Mason, said, "She works hard to provide for her kids and is a huge advocate for the [Child Care Task Force of Ellis County] and other providers."

Ruth Ruder, her mother-in-law, said, "Tori is dedicated and reliable. She is also a big part of the [Child Care Task Force of Ellis County]."

Tori said one of her favorite activities with the kids is taking holiday photos for their parents.

She said the children and parents have been very kind to her on some of her toughest days.

"A memorable moment for me was on a particularly tough day when the kids weren't listening, and everything seemed chaotic," Tori said. "One of the older kids had gone home but returned about 20 minutes later. 

"I thought he had forgotten something, but he actually brought me a coffee to cheer me up, saying, 'I thought this would make you feel better since you were having a bad day.'"

She said she also had parents give her gift cards for coffee every other week or greet her in the morning with a coffee just because. 

"These small gestures bring me joy and make me feel loved and valued," Tori said.

Tori doesn't follow a strict curriculum. Instead, she uses a "learn and play" approach, mixing some learning with lots of fun and playtime.

She said she loves interacting with the children.

"Hearing the kids' cheerful 'good mornings' every day is such a joy!" Tori said. "Witnessing their milestones and progress is incredibly rewarding. I love seeing the joy on a parent's face when I share that their child had a great day or achieved something we've been working on for a while."

Tori shared some of the challenges of being a child care provider.

Communication between a provider and parents can sometimes be challenging, she said.

"This can be due to various factors such as differing schedules, communication styles or even misunderstandings," she said. "Providers often have a busy day managing the children and their activities, which can make it difficult to find the right moment to connect with parents. 

"On the other hand, parents might be juggling their own work and personal responsibilities, making it hard to engage in detailed conversations during drop-off or pick-up times."

Effective communication is crucial for building trust and ensuring the provider and parents are on the same page regarding the child’s development and well-being, she said.

It helps to establish clear channels of communication, whether through regular updates via email, a communication app or scheduled meetings, Tori said.

"Being proactive in sharing both the child's achievements and any concerns can foster a positive and collaborative relationship," she said. "Additionally, being open to feedback and showing empathy toward each other's challenges can go a long way in overcoming communication barriers."

Tori has been active in the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County.

"I joined to help the community understand the child care world from a provider's perspective," she said. "I wanted to give a voice to in-home providers and assist parents in finding the best child care fit for their needs. 

"Additionally, I aimed to support those considering a career as a provider, helping them feel confident in their choice. I believe the task force is doing its best to include in-home providers and make them feel valued."

Tori highlighted some of the changes she has seen in the child care industry in her six years, including those surrounding supply and demand.

She said the number of child care providers has declined noticeably. Between 2019 and May 2021, Kansas lost 78 child care providers and 938 child care slots.

The Ellis County task force has sought to address those losses and open slots.

She said the demand for child care has continued to grow while the supply has struggled to keep up. Child Care Aware of Kansas has been actively working to address these shortages by providing technical assistance and support to communities.

Parents seeking care can access referrals for local providers through Child Care Aware of Kansas. <a href="https://ks.childcareaware.org/childcaresearch/">See this link</a>.

Tori said she thought community support for in-home providers has increased.&nbsp;

"Efforts have been made to include in-home providers in broader child care discussions and initiatives," she said.

Tori also offered advice to workers interested in entering the child care field.

"If you love children, this is a fantastic job," she said. "You get to be involved in a child's formative years and get to see really amazing growth and developing personalities.

"While there will be some tough days, the good ones far outweigh the bad. On a rough day, a simple hug and an 'I love you' from one of the kids can make all the challenges fade away, making it feel like the bad days never happened."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1f8ff50b-eb8c-488a-be8f-aab306e98f26#//">Submit your favorite child care provider for the Child Care Champion award here.</a>

The next child care task force meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Hays Welcome Center. It is open to anyone interested in child care issues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726592214048.jpeg" alt="Tori Ruder, her husband, Mason, and family. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tori Ruder, her husband, Mason, and family. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTori Ruder of Hays became a child care provider six years ago because she was struggling to find child care for her own children."Opening a day care allowed me to stay home with my kids while also caring for and loving other children," Tori said. "I wanted to create a safe and nurturing environment for kids to grow. I've always aspired to have a career working with children."Tori was nominated by her husband and mother-in-law for the Child Care Champion award for August.Her husband, Mason, said, "She works hard to provide for her kids and is a huge advocate for the [Child Care Task Force of Ellis County] and other providers."Ruth Ruder, her mother-in-law, said, "Tori is dedicated and reliable. She is also a big part of the [Child Care Task Force of Ellis County]."Tori said one of her favorite activities with the kids is taking holiday photos for their parents.She said the children and parents have been very kind to her on some of her toughest days."A memorable moment for me was on a particularly tough day when the kids weren't listening, and everything seemed chaotic," Tori said. "One of the older kids had gone home but returned about 20 minutes later. "I thought he had forgotten something, but he actually brought me a coffee to cheer me up, saying, 'I thought this would make you feel better since you were having a bad day.'"She said she also had parents give her gift cards for coffee every other week or greet her in the morning with a coffee just because. "These small gestures bring me joy and make me feel loved and valued," Tori said.Tori doesn't follow a strict curriculum. Instead, she uses a "learn and play" approach, mixing some learning with lots of fun and playtime.She said she loves interacting with the children."Hearing the kids' cheerful 'good mornings' every day is such a joy!" Tori said. "Witnessing their milestones and progress is incredibly rewarding. I love seeing the joy on a parent's face when I share that their child had a great day or achieved something we've been working on for a while."Tori shared some of the challenges of being a child care provider.Communication between a provider and parents can sometimes be challenging, she said."This can be due to various factors such as differing schedules, communication styles or even misunderstandings," she said. "Providers often have a busy day managing the children and their activities, which can make it difficult to find the right moment to connect with parents. "On the other hand, parents might be juggling their own work and personal responsibilities, making it hard to engage in detailed conversations during drop-off or pick-up times."Effective communication is crucial for building trust and ensuring the provider and parents are on the same page regarding the child’s development and well-being, she said.It helps to establish clear channels of communication, whether through regular updates via email, a communication app or scheduled meetings, Tori said."Being proactive in sharing both the child's achievements and any concerns can foster a positive and collaborative relationship," she said. "Additionally, being open to feedback and showing empathy toward each other's challenges can go a long way in overcoming communication barriers."Tori has been active in the Child Care Task Force of Ellis County."I joined to help the community understand the child care world from a provider's perspective," she said. "I wanted to give a voice to in-home providers and assist parents in finding the best child care fit for their needs. "Additionally, I aimed to support those considering a career as a provider, helping them feel confident in their choice. I believe the task force is doing its best to include in-home providers and make them feel valued."Tori highlighted some of the changes she has seen in the child care industry in her six years, including those surrounding supply and demand.She said the number of child care providers has declined noticeably. Between 2019 and May 2021, Kansas lost 78 child care providers and 938 child care slots.The Ellis County task force has sought to address those losses and open slots.She said the demand for child care has continued to grow while the supply has struggled to keep up. Child Care Aware of Kansas has been actively working to address these shortages by providing technical assistance and support to communities.Parents seeking care can access referrals for local providers through Child Care Aware of Kansas. <a href="https://ks.childcareaware.org/childcaresearch/">See this link</a>.Tori said she thought community support for in-home providers has increased.&nbsp;"Efforts have been made to include in-home providers in broader child care discussions and initiatives," she said.Tori also offered advice to workers interested in entering the child care field."If you love children, this is a fantastic job," she said. "You get to be involved in a child's formative years and get to see really amazing growth and developing personalities."While there will be some tough days, the good ones far outweigh the bad. On a rough day, a simple hug and an 'I love you' from one of the kids can make all the challenges fade away, making it feel like the bad days never happened." <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1f8ff50b-eb8c-488a-be8f-aab306e98f26#//">Submit your favorite child care provider for the Child Care Champion award here.</a>The next child care task force meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Hays Welcome Center. It is open to anyone interested in child care issues.

Child Care Champion: Despite tough days, child care fantastic job

Some HaysMed customers have reported receiving old or paid bills after a recent change in the HaysMed billing system.

One customer received a bill in September for March 2024 services. She found the canceled check for the exact amount she paid on her self-pay balance.&nbsp;

Upon calling HaysMed billing, a customer service representative said the bill would take up to 45 days to research and resolve.

The same customer said she received two other older bills earlier this month and is still researching whether they have been paid. Those bills were two and four years old.

Another customer complained&nbsp;on Facebook that she received a bill for emergency room services, but that bill was never submitted to insurance.

A third person had called three times to remind the clinic that a bill needed to be submitted to Workers' Compensation.

In August, HaysMed announced enhancements to its billing statements and financial assistance options. 

"These changes were designed with patient convenience and clarity in mind, ensuring a better understanding and management of their health care expenses," Leanna Swart, HaysMed director of marketing, said via email Tuesday.

 These changes include an updated payment portal, live chat feature and digital statement reminders, she said.

For a variety of reasons and on rare occasions, insurance payments are delayed or updated later by the insurance company. This could lead to patient responsibility statements being sent with older dates of service, Swart said.

For any billing questions or concerns, the HaysMed customer service team is available at 785-623-5100, and live chat support is provided during business hours.

To view the updated HaysMed payment portal or chat with a customer service representative live during business hours, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.haysmed.com/payment" target="_blank">www.haysmed.com/payment.</a>

<a href="http://www.haysmed.com/payment" target="_blank"></a>You can also read more about the launch of the new services from the Aug. 12 announcement on the<a href="https://www.haysmed.com/haysmed-launches-streamlined-bill-pay-services-to-enhance-patient-experience/" target="_blank">&nbsp;HaysMed website.</a>&nbsp;The website also has a frequently asked questions section on the new payment system and billing statements.

“At HaysMed, our priority has always been to provide outstanding care and a seamless experience for all our patients,” Michelle Beckner, HaysMed chief financial officer, said in the Aug. 12 statement. “With the introduction of the new bill pay platform and new statements, we are taking significant steps to further elevate our patients’ experience and satisfaction, ensuring we are supporting both patients’ clinical needs and financial aspects of their health care journey.”

HaysMed also said in the press release the new billing statements are sent directly from the secure HaysMed system. 

"However, please remain vigilant against phishing attempts. Always verify the sender's address and feel free to contact HaysMed directly through our official channels if anything looks unusual," the press release said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694017880043.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSome HaysMed customers have reported receiving old or paid bills after a recent change in the HaysMed billing system.One customer received a bill in September for March 2024 services. She found the canceled check for the exact amount she paid on her self-pay balance.&nbsp;Upon calling HaysMed billing, a customer service representative said the bill would take up to 45 days to research and resolve.The same customer said she received two other older bills earlier this month and is still researching whether they have been paid. Those bills were two and four years old.Another customer complained&nbsp;on Facebook that she received a bill for emergency room services, but that bill was never submitted to insurance.A third person had called three times to remind the clinic that a bill needed to be submitted to Workers' Compensation.In August, HaysMed announced enhancements to its billing statements and financial assistance options. "These changes were designed with patient convenience and clarity in mind, ensuring a better understanding and management of their health care expenses," Leanna Swart, HaysMed director of marketing, said via email Tuesday. These changes include an updated payment portal, live chat feature and digital statement reminders, she said.For a variety of reasons and on rare occasions, insurance payments are delayed or updated later by the insurance company. This could lead to patient responsibility statements being sent with older dates of service, Swart said.For any billing questions or concerns, the HaysMed customer service team is available at 785-623-5100, and live chat support is provided during business hours.To view the updated HaysMed payment portal or chat with a customer service representative live during business hours, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.haysmed.com/payment" target="_blank">www.haysmed.com/payment.</a><a href="http://www.haysmed.com/payment" target="_blank"></a>You can also read more about the launch of the new services from the Aug. 12 announcement on the<a href="https://www.haysmed.com/haysmed-launches-streamlined-bill-pay-services-to-enhance-patient-experience/" target="_blank">&nbsp;HaysMed website.</a>&nbsp;The website also has a frequently asked questions section on the new payment system and billing statements.“At HaysMed, our priority has always been to provide outstanding care and a seamless experience for all our patients,” Michelle Beckner, HaysMed chief financial officer, said in the Aug. 12 statement. “With the introduction of the new bill pay platform and new statements, we are taking significant steps to further elevate our patients’ experience and satisfaction, ensuring we are supporting both patients’ clinical needs and financial aspects of their health care journey.”HaysMed also said in the press release the new billing statements are sent directly from the secure HaysMed system. "However, please remain vigilant against phishing attempts. Always verify the sender's address and feel free to contact HaysMed directly through our official channels if anything looks unusual," the press release said.

HaysMed customers complain about billing after HaysMed payment portal changes

As Fort Hays State University's fall semester gets into full swing, career fairs provide opportunities for students to meet a variety of employers in one location.

“These events allow freshmen through seniors to learn about internship and job opportunities and make valuable connections,” said Lisa Karlin, career advisor and interim director of FHSU’s career services.

Mark your calendar for the following career fairs:

• Nursing Employer Spotlight Day:&nbsp;Monday, Sept. 23, 12:30-3 p.m., Stroup Hall.&nbsp;Twenty-two employers are scheduled to attend.

• Ag Career Fair:&nbsp;Thursday, Sept. 26, 2-4 p.m., Fort Hays Ballroom, Memorial Union.&nbsp;Accepting employer registrations through Sept. 20.

• Speech-Language Pathology and Education Career Fair:&nbsp;Friday, Nov. 15, 1:30-4 p.m., Fort Hays Ballroom, Memorial Union.&nbsp;Accepting employer registrations through Nov. 8.

To register or to find out more about FHSU career fairs, contact Career Services at 785-628-2460 or careers@fhsu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726580992098.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsAs Fort Hays State University's fall semester gets into full swing, career fairs provide opportunities for students to meet a variety of employers in one location.“These events allow freshmen through seniors to learn about internship and job opportunities and make valuable connections,” said Lisa Karlin, career advisor and interim director of FHSU’s career services.Mark your calendar for the following career fairs:• Nursing Employer Spotlight Day:&nbsp;Monday, Sept. 23, 12:30-3 p.m., Stroup Hall.&nbsp;Twenty-two employers are scheduled to attend.• Ag Career Fair:&nbsp;Thursday, Sept. 26, 2-4 p.m., Fort Hays Ballroom, Memorial Union.&nbsp;Accepting employer registrations through Sept. 20.• Speech-Language Pathology and Education Career Fair:&nbsp;Friday, Nov. 15, 1:30-4 p.m., Fort Hays Ballroom, Memorial Union.&nbsp;Accepting employer registrations through Nov. 8.To register or to find out more about FHSU career fairs, contact Career Services at 785-628-2460 or careers@fhsu.edu.

FHSU announces upcoming career fairs

Hedge apples, direct to you! Placing hedge apples around the foundation or inside a basement provides relief from cockroaches, spiders, box elder bugs, crickets, and other pests sums up a headline I read.

Why would anyone want hedge apples? Aren’t they ugly green fruits that look like a brain? In fact, green brain is another term for hedge apples along with Osage orange, hedge ball, and monkey ball. In short time, I learned more than I needed to know about these weird fruits, so I’ll share.

My quest to learn about hedge apples began when I found a source near my daughter’s house. I’d read they repel insects and other pests, so I played scientist to test this hypothesis.

I carried three spicy scented, oddly textured fruits home and set them on the patio to cure. (I’d not yet learned these perform best fresh.) The next morning as I headed to town, I noticed one hedge apple had vanished. In a hurry, I blamed our big yellow dog who occasionally entertained himself with objects left outside.

That afternoon, I returned to discover the disappearance of every hedge apple. A confirmed mystery lover, I began my quest. Where were my hedge balls? Although they don’t stink, their scent wouldn’t repeatedly attract our dog. In fact, he doesn’t like spicy, fruity smells. I know. I once fed him leftover fried apples.

Perhaps my husband tossed them, unaware of my natural pest control interest. Sometimes my experiments turn out poorly, so he might not recognize a good one in process.

Before he arrived to face interrogation, I found greenish remains. Nothing about them resembled a ball, an orange, or a brain. Something carried them from porch to nearby cedar and exploded them to smithereens. Reassembling that mess would confound any crime scene investigator.

That night I explained this mystery and showed my spouse the multitudinous bits. He immediately blamed squirrels, which I considered lame since our ample squirrel population made an obvious target. He added he frequently witnessed exploded shreds beneath country hedgerows. Still curious, I visited cyber space, researching hedge apples. My findings fascinated me.

Osage orange trees, native to eastern Texas, southeast Oklahoma, and southwestern Arkansas, produce hedge apples. Since humans don’t eat them and few animals (except squirrels) do, it begged a question. Why find hedgerows full of Osage orange trees across Kansas, a much drier, cooler climate than its native region?

Further reading offered an answer. Large thorns arm its branches. Prior to barb-wire’s invention, ranchers and farmers planted these trees around their land. Livestock couldn’t penetrate this “living fence,” which explains hedgerows in Kansas. These trees thrive as far as Iowa, so many old farmsteads showcase unusual “fencing.”

Unlike other introduced species that do more harm than good, consider this tree a boon. It tolerates poor soil, heat, and strong wind--a perfect Kansas tree. It also transplants well, resists disease, and produces durable and beautiful wood. I saw a garden bench made of Osage orange, and its orange, yellow, and brown hues set that bench apart from the ordinary--as much art as utilitarian.

Due to this wood’s strength, it makes great fence posts, insulator pins, furniture, and archery bows. Some claim it best for archery bows, leading the French to name the tree, bois d’arc, meaning bow wood. Since it thrives under difficult conditions, Kansans ought to plant more.

Back to this trees’ fruits, my experiment proceeded. I anticipated relief from our autumnal box elder beetle invasion. Spiders planning to share our house would seek alternate lodging, and crickets would find new sites to practice obnoxious tunes. To encourage me, one site sold this natural repellent at $1.50 a hedge apple, plus shipping.

In this case, you’ll have to wait to next week to find out how my experiment turned into a horror movie plot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726072785752.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINHedge apples, direct to you! Placing hedge apples around the foundation or inside a basement provides relief from cockroaches, spiders, box elder bugs, crickets, and other pests sums up a headline I read.Why would anyone want hedge apples? Aren’t they ugly green fruits that look like a brain? In fact, green brain is another term for hedge apples along with Osage orange, hedge ball, and monkey ball. In short time, I learned more than I needed to know about these weird fruits, so I’ll share.My quest to learn about hedge apples began when I found a source near my daughter’s house. I’d read they repel insects and other pests, so I played scientist to test this hypothesis.I carried three spicy scented, oddly textured fruits home and set them on the patio to cure. (I’d not yet learned these perform best fresh.) The next morning as I headed to town, I noticed one hedge apple had vanished. In a hurry, I blamed our big yellow dog who occasionally entertained himself with objects left outside.That afternoon, I returned to discover the disappearance of every hedge apple. A confirmed mystery lover, I began my quest. Where were my hedge balls? Although they don’t stink, their scent wouldn’t repeatedly attract our dog. In fact, he doesn’t like spicy, fruity smells. I know. I once fed him leftover fried apples.Perhaps my husband tossed them, unaware of my natural pest control interest. Sometimes my experiments turn out poorly, so he might not recognize a good one in process.Before he arrived to face interrogation, I found greenish remains. Nothing about them resembled a ball, an orange, or a brain. Something carried them from porch to nearby cedar and exploded them to smithereens. Reassembling that mess would confound any crime scene investigator.That night I explained this mystery and showed my spouse the multitudinous bits. He immediately blamed squirrels, which I considered lame since our ample squirrel population made an obvious target. He added he frequently witnessed exploded shreds beneath country hedgerows. Still curious, I visited cyber space, researching hedge apples. My findings fascinated me.Osage orange trees, native to eastern Texas, southeast Oklahoma, and southwestern Arkansas, produce hedge apples. Since humans don’t eat them and few animals (except squirrels) do, it begged a question. Why find hedgerows full of Osage orange trees across Kansas, a much drier, cooler climate than its native region?Further reading offered an answer. Large thorns arm its branches. Prior to barb-wire’s invention, ranchers and farmers planted these trees around their land. Livestock couldn’t penetrate this “living fence,” which explains hedgerows in Kansas. These trees thrive as far as Iowa, so many old farmsteads showcase unusual “fencing.”Unlike other introduced species that do more harm than good, consider this tree a boon. It tolerates poor soil, heat, and strong wind--a perfect Kansas tree. It also transplants well, resists disease, and produces durable and beautiful wood. I saw a garden bench made of Osage orange, and its orange, yellow, and brown hues set that bench apart from the ordinary--as much art as utilitarian.Due to this wood’s strength, it makes great fence posts, insulator pins, furniture, and archery bows. Some claim it best for archery bows, leading the French to name the tree, bois d’arc, meaning bow wood. Since it thrives under difficult conditions, Kansans ought to plant more.Back to this trees’ fruits, my experiment proceeded. I anticipated relief from our autumnal box elder beetle invasion. Spiders planning to share our house would seek alternate lodging, and crickets would find new sites to practice obnoxious tunes. To encourage me, one site sold this natural repellent at $1.50 a hedge apple, plus shipping.In this case, you’ll have to wait to next week to find out how my experiment turned into a horror movie plot.

MADORIN:  Hedge Apples – Part One

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726695348273.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Colby Community College is accepting applications for part-time Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) and Certified Medication Aide (CMA) instructors to provide high-quality education for students pursuing healthcare careers in the following communities:

Overview The CNA and CMA instructors will teach classes to prepare students to become certified professionals in long-term care and medication administration.

· Hold a current Kansas RN or LPN license in good standing, with no pending or current disciplinary actions.

· Have at least two years of full-time licensed experience.

· Possess one year of experience in a long-term care setting or have completed seven hours of professional continuing education on person-centered care in a licensed adult care home or long-term care unit of a hospital within the past year.

· Experience supervising nurse aides or teaching adults, with completion of a course in adult education or professional continuing education focused on supervision or adult education.

· CNA class (5 credit hours) is $3,250 with up to 10 students;

· CMA class (4-hours) is $2,600 with up to 6 students.

Application Process Positions will be open until filled. To be considered, submit a letter of application, resume, references, and postsecondary transcripts to:

Colby Community College ATTN: Human Resources 1255 S Range Ave Colby, KS 67701 Apply online or email materials to hr@colbycc.edu. For more information, please visit www.colbycc.edu/employment or contact Human Resources at (785) 460-5490.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726694055601.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>Colby Community College is accepting applications for part-time Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) and Certified Medication Aide (CMA) instructors to provide high-quality education for students pursuing healthcare careers in the following communities:· Colby· Hoxie· Norton· Oakley· Oberlin· PhillipsburgOverview The CNA and CMA instructors will teach classes to prepare students to become certified professionals in long-term care and medication administration.Qualifications· Hold a current Kansas RN or LPN license in good standing, with no pending or current disciplinary actions.· Have at least two years of full-time licensed experience.· Possess one year of experience in a long-term care setting or have completed seven hours of professional continuing education on person-centered care in a licensed adult care home or long-term care unit of a hospital within the past year.· Experience supervising nurse aides or teaching adults, with completion of a course in adult education or professional continuing education focused on supervision or adult education.Compensation $650 per credit hour:· CNA class (5 credit hours) is $3,250 with up to 10 students;· CMA class (4-hours) is $2,600 with up to 6 students.Application Process Positions will be open until filled. To be considered, submit a letter of application, resume, references, and postsecondary transcripts to:Colby Community College ATTN: Human Resources 1255 S Range Ave Colby, KS 67701 Apply online or email materials to hr@colbycc.edu. For more information, please visit www.colbycc.edu/employment or contact Human Resources at (785) 460-5490.

🏈 FHSU game vs. Northeastern State moved up to 11am kickoff, fireworks postponed

TREGO COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Wednesday in Trego County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Ram 1500 driven by Richard E.&nbsp;Hubbard, 73, Hill City, was westbound on Interstate 70 at the exit for U.S. 283.

The pickup left the roadway, entered the median, traveled down the embankment between the eastbound and westbound bridges and came to rest against a guardrail on U.S. 283.

EMS transported&nbsp;Hubbard to Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

TREGO COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Wednesday in Trego County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Ram 1500 driven by Richard E.&nbsp;Hubbard, 73, Hill City, was westbound on Interstate 70 at the exit for U.S. 283.The pickup left the roadway, entered the median, traveled down the embankment between the eastbound and westbound bridges and came to rest against a guardrail on U.S. 283.EMS transported&nbsp;Hubbard to Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas man hospitalized after pickup crash

A portion of U.S. 281 in Russell County has been reopened to traffic as of today.

The 11-mile section between Land Road and the west K-18 junction has been closed since March for a Kansas Department of Transportation project to reconstruct the roadway into a 30-foot paved surface with 3-foot turf shoulders.

KDOTA portion of U.S. 281 in Russell County has been reopened to traffic as of today.The 11-mile section between Land Road and the west K-18 junction has been closed since March for a Kansas Department of Transportation project to reconstruct the roadway into a 30-foot paved surface with 3-foot turf shoulders.Construction crews will remain in the area to complete final work and cleanup. Motorists are reminded to buckle up, follow the speed limits and stay alert behind the wheel.The $36 million project is the final part of the delayed T-WORKS project to rehabilitate and reconstruct the U.S. 281 corridor between Russell and K-18. Reconstruction of the initial 4 miles from Russell to Land Road was completed in late 2021.

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