The City of Hays has announced the following adjustments in city schedules:

City of Hays offices will be closed on Monday, September 2, 2024, in observance of the Labor Day holiday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com//Calendar.aspx?EID=423">https://www.haysusa.com//Calendar.aspx?EID=423</a>

Due to the observance of Labor Day on September 2, 2024, refuse/recycling route collection schedules will be altered as follows: Monday, September 2, 2024 and Tuesday, September 3, 2024 will both be picked up on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. There is no anticipated change to Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday’s collection schedules.

Although collections may not occur on your normal day, collections will be completed during the week. &nbsp; It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. Please make sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 AM, and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.

City of Hays customers that have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 628-7350.

The City of Hays has announced the following adjustments in city schedules:City of Hays offices will be closed on Monday, September 2, 2024, in observance of the Labor Day holiday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com//Calendar.aspx?EID=423">https://www.haysusa.com//Calendar.aspx?EID=423</a>Due to the observance of Labor Day on September 2, 2024, refuse/recycling route collection schedules will be altered as follows: Monday, September 2, 2024 and Tuesday, September 3, 2024 will both be picked up on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. There is no anticipated change to Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday’s collection schedules.Although collections may not occur on your normal day, collections will be completed during the week. &nbsp; It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. Please make sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 AM, and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.City of Hays customers that have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 628-7350.

City offices closed, trash collection schedule changed for holiday

By RUSSELL FOX Insight Kansas

I recently read the manuscript of a soon-to-be-published scholarly book looking at one of Kansas’s major cities. It was filled with sharp observations and smart ideas; when it’s published, I’ll buy copies of it for all my local representatives, in hopes that they’ll read it and learn something. But there’s one point in the manuscript that I can’t get out of my head.

When the author–who, like me, is not a Kansas native–arrived in the Sunflower state, they were struck by how the city they were moving to seemed to sprout out of the ground without warning. Flying into a Kansas airport, the book suggests, you look around, seeing nothing but farmland, and then suddenly a city is there, seemingly at random. The point being that Kansas’s urban areas--with Kansas City’s agglomeration of Overland Park and Olathe, Leavenworth and Lenexa, being the sole exception–are stand-alone entities, the product of geographic happenstance or boundary-line-drawing rooted decades, or even centuries, in the past.

Cities everywhere are both products and providers of connectivity; making connections and pursuing opportunities is why people congregate together, why businesses and investment capital flow to urban areas. So when you see a solitary city or town standing in an otherwise entirely rural space, there is the temptation to wonder how “real” a place it actually is.

Given that global trade and internet communication means that no city or town, no matter how small, is truly disconnected any longer, this kind of wondering is more a matter of perception than reality. Unless, of course, the perception becomes a self-imposed trap, and thus accidentally, or perhaps preemptively, sets the terms for the real-world decisions that follow.

That kind of self-referential trapping is not unusual in Kansas, I fear. There are positive aspects to it, of course; it can encourage people to focus on their local resources, adding to the culture of our state by supporting and celebrating the creativity that can be found in local places. But too often this dynamic takes a negative tone, whether it be a defiant pride in disconnection, or a hopelessness that dismisses new connections and possibilities before they’ve even been tried.

Look at Kansas politics through this frame, and you can see examples everywhere. State policies that could be easily adapted to Kansas’s population–like Medicaid expansion, legal medical marijuana, and more–face opposition from political interests that mostly offer a simple “it won’t work here” rather than any serious policy argument. Counties with farmers looking to bring in additional income and companies happy to pay them to install solar arrays face onerous regulations instead, because otherwise “people will complain.” Cities trying to manage their slow growth by establishing more reliable revenue streams, reconsidering the costs of an overbuilt infrastructure, free parking, and mill levies that haven’t been touched in decades, shy away from moving forward, fearing that Kansans are “too cheap” to ever pay for improving public goods.

Obviously such perceptions don’t explain everything about these disputes; political disagreements, backed by powerful partisan interests, are real, and simple boosterism won’t change that. But pushing back against the idea that certain things just “can’t happen in Kansas” is nonetheless important, I think, because that’s a perception rooted in an assumption based on Kansas’s spatiality, its supposed disconnectedness, and not on our common resources and will.

The fact that there are, and always have been, many throughout Kansas’s cities and towns willing to do that kind of pushing back is evidence enough that the political powers that be aren’t the whole story. That’s my hopeful perception, at least.

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita, KS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690389122282.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RUSSELL FOX Insight KansasI recently read the manuscript of a soon-to-be-published scholarly book looking at one of Kansas’s major cities. It was filled with sharp observations and smart ideas; when it’s published, I’ll buy copies of it for all my local representatives, in hopes that they’ll read it and learn something. But there’s one point in the manuscript that I can’t get out of my head.When the author–who, like me, is not a Kansas native–arrived in the Sunflower state, they were struck by how the city they were moving to seemed to sprout out of the ground without warning. Flying into a Kansas airport, the book suggests, you look around, seeing nothing but farmland, and then suddenly a city is there, seemingly at random. The point being that Kansas’s urban areas--with Kansas City’s agglomeration of Overland Park and Olathe, Leavenworth and Lenexa, being the sole exception–are stand-alone entities, the product of geographic happenstance or boundary-line-drawing rooted decades, or even centuries, in the past.Cities everywhere are both products and providers of connectivity; making connections and pursuing opportunities is why people congregate together, why businesses and investment capital flow to urban areas. So when you see a solitary city or town standing in an otherwise entirely rural space, there is the temptation to wonder how “real” a place it actually is.Given that global trade and internet communication means that no city or town, no matter how small, is truly disconnected any longer, this kind of wondering is more a matter of perception than reality. Unless, of course, the perception becomes a self-imposed trap, and thus accidentally, or perhaps preemptively, sets the terms for the real-world decisions that follow.That kind of self-referential trapping is not unusual in Kansas, I fear. There are positive aspects to it, of course; it can encourage people to focus on their local resources, adding to the culture of our state by supporting and celebrating the creativity that can be found in local places. But too often this dynamic takes a negative tone, whether it be a defiant pride in disconnection, or a hopelessness that dismisses new connections and possibilities before they’ve even been tried.Look at Kansas politics through this frame, and you can see examples everywhere. State policies that could be easily adapted to Kansas’s population–like Medicaid expansion, legal medical marijuana, and more–face opposition from political interests that mostly offer a simple “it won’t work here” rather than any serious policy argument. Counties with farmers looking to bring in additional income and companies happy to pay them to install solar arrays face onerous regulations instead, because otherwise “people will complain.” Cities trying to manage their slow growth by establishing more reliable revenue streams, reconsidering the costs of an overbuilt infrastructure, free parking, and mill levies that haven’t been touched in decades, shy away from moving forward, fearing that Kansans are “too cheap” to ever pay for improving public goods.Obviously such perceptions don’t explain everything about these disputes; political disagreements, backed by powerful partisan interests, are real, and simple boosterism won’t change that. But pushing back against the idea that certain things just “can’t happen in Kansas” is nonetheless important, I think, because that’s a perception rooted in an assumption based on Kansas’s spatiality, its supposed disconnectedness, and not on our common resources and will.The fact that there are, and always have been, many throughout Kansas’s cities and towns willing to do that kind of pushing back is evidence enough that the political powers that be aren’t the whole story. That’s my hopeful perception, at least.Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita, KS.

INSIGHT KANSAS: The problem of Kansas’s self-perception

<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/2024/8/1725145179293.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

A summer COVID surge is starting to recede in Kansas and Missouri, but the next wave of infections is likely only weeks away.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/suzanne-king/">Suzanne King</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/">The Beacon</a>

A summer COVID wave fueled by a highly contagious variant, increased travel and hot days that crowded people indoors may be&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nwss/rv/COVID19-statetrend.html">starting to ebb</a>&nbsp;in the Kansas City area.&nbsp;

Health officials said they hope that surge prompts far more people to sign up for the new COVID vaccine, which could reach area pharmacies next week. The new shot was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-and-authorizes-updated-mrna-covid-19-vaccines-better-protect-against-currently">approved</a>&nbsp;last week and is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html">recommended</a>&nbsp;annually for people 6 months and older.

<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2024/08/28/the-best-way-to-avoid-covid-get-the-new-covid-vaccine/#new-covid-vaccine">Jump down to answers about when and where to get the vaccine and what it might cost you</a>

“Please take advantage of it,” said&nbsp; Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. “Roll up both sleeves. Get your flu shot and your COVID shot.”

<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2023/12/11/new-covid-vaccine-no-interest/">Last year</a>, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that fewer than a quarter of adults actually got the new COVID vaccine.

Getting the updated vaccine, doctors agree, is the best way to prevent serious illness and reduce the risk of developing long COVID, a lingering and often debilitating condition that can leave a person with symptoms for months or years.

But since the federal government lifted its public health emergency in May 2023 and stopped providing the vaccine for free, public health officials have worried about how some people would afford it. Cash price for a shot can top $100.

People covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance can still get the shot for free or for a small fee. And a $1 billion federal program made free shots available to people without insurance last year. But funding for that program was expected to run out at the end of August.&nbsp;

Some area health departments, including the Wyandotte County Public Health Department, had said they&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2024/08/14/health-officials-warn-of-worsening-covid-surge-without-free-vaccines/">wouldn’t have</a>&nbsp;any free shots for uninsured adults this year. And Vibrant Health, a Wyandotte County health clinic, said it’s still unsure how many free shots will be available to its uninsured patients this fall.

But as federal funding was scheduled to dry up, the government announced it had found money to help cover at least some of the gap.&nbsp;

Kansas expects to get around $780,000 of the newly found federal aid, enough to cover about 9,380 COVID doses. The state, which hasn’t expanded Medicaid, has nearly&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/census-survey-nearly-250000-kansans-without-health-coverage/#:~:text=TOPEKA%20%E2%80%93%20The%20U.S.%20Census%20Bureau,Kansas%20and%20the%20United%20States.">250,000</a>&nbsp;residents who lack health coverage.

Jill Bronaugh, spokesperson for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, said the shots would be “equitably distributed” across the state to local health departments, community health centers, rural health clinics and other vaccination locations.

Missouri got word last week that it would get just over $1.1 million of the federal funds. That means the state can buy around 12,000 COVID shots. The state, which has expanded Medicaid, still has more than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/other/state-indicator/total-population/?dataView=1&amp;currentTimeframe=0&amp;sortModel=%7B%22colId%22:%22Location%22,%22sort%22:%22asc%22%7D">500,000</a>&nbsp;uninsured residents, according to 2022 data.

Lynelle Paro, chief of Missouri’s Bureau of Immunization in the Department of Health and Senior Services, said the shots will be made available to public health departments and to some federally qualified health clinics, including&nbsp;<a href="https://samrodgers.org/">Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kccare.org/">KC CARE Health Center</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://swopehealth.org/">Swope Health</a>.

Dr. Mark Steele, University Health’s chief clinical officer, said people at lower risk of getting really sick from COVID could consider waiting to get the updated shot until late September or early October. That could extend protection into the holiday season.

But doctors warn about putting it off any longer. The virus is sure to surge again once the weather turns cold, a new variant likely takes hold and people go back inside.

“If you’re an individual at high risk and it’s been two months or more since your last COVID update, err on the side of (getting the new shot) sooner rather than later,” Steele said.

Here’s what else you should know about the latest shot and what steps to take if you get infected.

Where can I get the new COVID vaccine and how much will it cost?

Many pharmacies offer the vaccine on a walk-in basis. Retail chains like Walgreens and CVS let you sign up through their websites. People covered by Medicare, Medicaid and many private insurance plans still can get the COVID shot for free, but you may have to pay an administration fee. Some area health departments charge $20 to give you the shot, even if you don’t have insurance. Many federally qualified health centers, such as KC CARE, provide the shot for free to uninsured and underinsured patients. Uninsured and underinsured minors get the shot for free through a federal program known as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines-for-children/about/index.html">Vaccines for Children</a>.

What variant is the latest vaccine targeting?

The newly approved mRNA vaccines, from Moderna and Pfizer, target the KP.2 strain of the virus. KP.2 is one of the FLiRT variants, the highly contagious versions of COVID that fueled this summer’s surge.&nbsp;

If I had COVID recently, how long should I wait to get the new COVID vaccine?

Doctors said you can wait up to three months after an infection to get the new vaccine. That’s because you will develop immunity from having the virus.

Steele said you can expect the shot to keep you from getting sick for about three months. The vaccine will protect you from getting seriously ill for at least six months. Older adults and patients with underlying health conditions may be advised to get a second shot midway through the year.

Test when you have symptoms, said Dr. Sarah Boyd, an infectious disease doctor at St. Luke’s Health System. And don’t assume you’re COVID-free if one home antigen test shows a negative result. When a cough, sore throat or other symptoms persist, you should test a second time 48 hours later to rule out COVID.

If you know you’ve been exposed and you don’t have symptoms, you should test five days after exposure. Unless symptoms develop, you don’t need to repeat the test, Boyd said.

Beginning in late September, you will be able to&nbsp;<a href="https://aspr.hhs.gov/covid-19/test/Pages/default.aspx">order</a>&nbsp;four free tests from the federal government. Tests are available to buy at most drug stores or online, but that can cost $6 a test or more.&nbsp;<a href="https://testinglocator.cdc.gov/">No-cost testing</a>&nbsp;is still available at some pharmacies for people without insurance who have been exposed to COVID or have symptoms.&nbsp;

If the test is positive, do I need to stay home?

The CDC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/guidance/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/guidance/respiratory-virus-guidance.html">recommends</a>&nbsp;that if you test positive, you should avoid contact with others. Once your symptoms are improving and you have been fever-free for 24 hours, you can go back to school or work — as long as you’re not returning to a health care setting. But when you go back into the world, you should take precautions like wearing a mask for five additional days.

Should I consider taking Paxlovid if I test positive?

It’s a good idea to check in with your doctor if you test positive, Boyd said. They may recommend that you take Paxlovid, an antiviral medication that can prevent serious illness. Testing and determining that you have COVID is especially important for people at higher risk because Paxlovid must be started within five days of getting sick.

How can I reduce my risks of getting long COVID?

The best strategy to avoid long COVID is to avoid being infected in the first place, experts said. Wear a mask in crowded places, practice good hand hygiene and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth when in public. Most importantly, stay up to date on the vaccine. Like the flu shot, updated COVID vaccines are tweaked to more closely match and repel the virus variants that are circulating.&nbsp;

<h2>A summer COVID surge is starting to recede in Kansas and Missouri, but the next wave of infections is likely only weeks away.</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725035195591.png" alt="Kansas City-area pharmacies should be getting the new COVID vaccine any day. (Suzanne King/The Beacon)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City-area pharmacies should be getting the new COVID vaccine any day. (Suzanne King/The Beacon)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/suzanne-king/">Suzanne King</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/">The Beacon</a>A summer COVID wave fueled by a highly contagious variant, increased travel and hot days that crowded people indoors may be&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nwss/rv/COVID19-statetrend.html">starting to ebb</a>&nbsp;in the Kansas City area.&nbsp;Health officials said they hope that surge prompts far more people to sign up for the new COVID vaccine, which could reach area pharmacies next week. The new shot was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-and-authorizes-updated-mrna-covid-19-vaccines-better-protect-against-currently">approved</a>&nbsp;last week and is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html">recommended</a>&nbsp;annually for people 6 months and older.<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2024/08/28/the-best-way-to-avoid-covid-get-the-new-covid-vaccine/#new-covid-vaccine">Jump down to answers about when and where to get the vaccine and what it might cost you</a>“Please take advantage of it,” said&nbsp; Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. “Roll up both sleeves. Get your flu shot and your COVID shot.”<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2023/12/11/new-covid-vaccine-no-interest/">Last year</a>, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that fewer than a quarter of adults actually got the new COVID vaccine.Getting the updated vaccine, doctors agree, is the best way to prevent serious illness and reduce the risk of developing long COVID, a lingering and often debilitating condition that can leave a person with symptoms for months or years.But since the federal government lifted its public health emergency in May 2023 and stopped providing the vaccine for free, public health officials have worried about how some people would afford it. Cash price for a shot can top $100.People covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance can still get the shot for free or for a small fee. And a $1 billion federal program made free shots available to people without insurance last year. But funding for that program was expected to run out at the end of August.&nbsp;Some area health departments, including the Wyandotte County Public Health Department, had said they&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2024/08/14/health-officials-warn-of-worsening-covid-surge-without-free-vaccines/">wouldn’t have</a>&nbsp;any free shots for uninsured adults this year. And Vibrant Health, a Wyandotte County health clinic, said it’s still unsure how many free shots will be available to its uninsured patients this fall.But as federal funding was scheduled to dry up, the government announced it had found money to help cover at least some of the gap.&nbsp;Kansas expects to get around $780,000 of the newly found federal aid, enough to cover about 9,380 COVID doses. The state, which hasn’t expanded Medicaid, has nearly&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/census-survey-nearly-250000-kansans-without-health-coverage/#:~:text=TOPEKA%20%E2%80%93%20The%20U.S.%20Census%20Bureau,Kansas%20and%20the%20United%20States.">250,000</a>&nbsp;residents who lack health coverage.Jill Bronaugh, spokesperson for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, said the shots would be “equitably distributed” across the state to local health departments, community health centers, rural health clinics and other vaccination locations.Missouri got word last week that it would get just over $1.1 million of the federal funds. That means the state can buy around 12,000 COVID shots. The state, which has expanded Medicaid, still has more than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/other/state-indicator/total-population/?dataView=1&amp;currentTimeframe=0&amp;sortModel=%7B%22colId%22:%22Location%22,%22sort%22:%22asc%22%7D">500,000</a>&nbsp;uninsured residents, according to 2022 data.Lynelle Paro, chief of Missouri’s Bureau of Immunization in the Department of Health and Senior Services, said the shots will be made available to public health departments and to some federally qualified health clinics, including&nbsp;<a href="https://samrodgers.org/">Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kccare.org/">KC CARE Health Center</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://swopehealth.org/">Swope Health</a>.Dr. Mark Steele, University Health’s chief clinical officer, said people at lower risk of getting really sick from COVID could consider waiting to get the updated shot until late September or early October. That could extend protection into the holiday season.But doctors warn about putting it off any longer. The virus is sure to surge again once the weather turns cold, a new variant likely takes hold and people go back inside.“If you’re an individual at high risk and it’s been two months or more since your last COVID update, err on the side of (getting the new shot) sooner rather than later,” Steele said.Here’s what else you should know about the latest shot and what steps to take if you get infected.<h2>Where can I get the new COVID vaccine and how much will it cost?</h2>Many pharmacies offer the vaccine on a walk-in basis. Retail chains like Walgreens and CVS let you sign up through their websites. People covered by Medicare, Medicaid and many private insurance plans still can get the COVID shot for free, but you may have to pay an administration fee. Some area health departments charge $20 to give you the shot, even if you don’t have insurance. Many federally qualified health centers, such as KC CARE, provide the shot for free to uninsured and underinsured patients. Uninsured and underinsured minors get the shot for free through a federal program known as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines-for-children/about/index.html">Vaccines for Children</a>.<h2>What variant is the latest vaccine targeting?</h2>The newly approved mRNA vaccines, from Moderna and Pfizer, target the KP.2 strain of the virus. KP.2 is one of the FLiRT variants, the highly contagious versions of COVID that fueled this summer’s surge.&nbsp;<h2>If I had COVID recently, how long should I wait to get the new COVID vaccine?</h2>Doctors said you can wait up to three months after an infection to get the new vaccine. That’s because you will develop immunity from having the virus.<h2>How long will the vaccine protect me?</h2>Steele said you can expect the shot to keep you from getting sick for about three months. The vaccine will protect you from getting seriously ill for at least six months. Older adults and patients with underlying health conditions may be advised to get a second shot midway through the year.<h2>If I get sick, when should I test?</h2>Test when you have symptoms, said Dr. Sarah Boyd, an infectious disease doctor at St. Luke’s Health System. And don’t assume you’re COVID-free if one home antigen test shows a negative result. When a cough, sore throat or other symptoms persist, you should test a second time 48 hours later to rule out COVID.<h2>If I am exposed, when should I test?</h2>If you know you’ve been exposed and you don’t have symptoms, you should test five days after exposure. Unless symptoms develop, you don’t need to repeat the test, Boyd said.<h2>Where can I get COVID tests?</h2>Beginning in late September, you will be able to&nbsp;<a href="https://aspr.hhs.gov/covid-19/test/Pages/default.aspx">order</a>&nbsp;four free tests from the federal government. Tests are available to buy at most drug stores or online, but that can cost $6 a test or more.&nbsp;<a href="https://testinglocator.cdc.gov/">No-cost testing</a>&nbsp;is still available at some pharmacies for people without insurance who have been exposed to COVID or have symptoms.&nbsp;<h2>If the test is positive, do I need to stay home?</h2>The CDC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/guidance/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/guidance/respiratory-virus-guidance.html">recommends</a>&nbsp;that if you test positive, you should avoid contact with others. Once your symptoms are improving and you have been fever-free for 24 hours, you can go back to school or work — as long as you’re not returning to a health care setting. But when you go back into the world, you should take precautions like wearing a mask for five additional days.<h2>Should I consider taking Paxlovid if I test positive?</h2>It’s a good idea to check in with your doctor if you test positive, Boyd said. They may recommend that you take Paxlovid, an antiviral medication that can prevent serious illness. Testing and determining that you have COVID is especially important for people at higher risk because Paxlovid must be started within five days of getting sick.<h2>How can I reduce my risks of getting long COVID?</h2>The best strategy to avoid long COVID is to avoid being infected in the first place, experts said. Wear a mask in crowded places, practice good hand hygiene and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth when in public. Most importantly, stay up to date on the vaccine. Like the flu shot, updated COVID vaccines are tweaked to more closely match and repel the virus variants that are circulating.&nbsp;

New COVID vaccines on their way: What you need to know

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">United Way of Ellis County</a> kicked off its annual fundraising Campaign on Friday at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall in Hays.

This year's fundraising goal is $350,000. The campaign's theme is "United We Thrive."

The number of non-profit agencies that the United Way funds varies each year, but last year it was 13.

These included: • Big Brothers Big Sisters • Cancer Council of Ellis County • Center for Life Experience • Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation • Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) • Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) • STEM Harvest • Salvation Army • First Call for Help • Hays Senior Center • Options Domestic Violence and Sexual Assualt Services • Parents and Children Together • Western Kansas Association on the Concerns of the Disabled • Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center

"Without access to resources, people experiencing hard times will have nowhere to turn," Erica Berges, United Way executive director, said. "They will have no chance to get back on their feet and thrive."

United Way has expanded its core missions to include youth opportunities, a healthy community, financial security and community&nbsp;resiliency.&nbsp;

Representatives of CASA and the Healing Hearts grief support group sponsored by the Center for Life Experience shared their stories during the Hays Chamber luncheon on Friday.

Brooke Moore, a court appointed special advocate, talked about the first case she was assigned as a volunteer. The child was a 13-year-old boy, who she called Kevin (not his real name), who had been removed from his home for neglect.

CASA volunteers are assigned to child in need of care cases when children are removed from homes for abuse or neglect. It is their job to speak with family members, school officials, caretakers, therapists and anyone else involved in cases so they can speak for the child in court.

Kevin's parents, who had mental health issues, struggled to take care of themselves and were not taking care of Kevin. When he lived with his parents, he was forced to act as an adult and ensure his family was cared for and had food.

He was bounced back and forth between a stable home with his aunt and an unstable home with his parents.

When he was with his aunt, he thrived. The community and school supported him, and he had many friends.

However, he was chronically absent from school when he lived with his parents and began falling behind in his academics.

Through a series of interviews, Moore learned more about Kevin's situation. Although he loves his parents, he wrote a letter to the judge explaining that he preferred to live with his aunt, where he was safe and cared for.

Although a difficult decision, his parents finally signed permanent custody over to Kevin's aunt.

"I love what I do. I love that you support that," Moore said.

Vaughn Marcum of WaKeeney talked about his experience with Healing Hearts.

The Center for Life Experience offers three grief support groups: • Healing After Loss of Suicide (HALOS) • Healing After Loss (for those who are grieving for adults) • Healing Hearts (for those who are grieving the loss of children)

Marcum said he and his wife lost five family members and a close friend within about two years.

However, the most difficult death was their grandson, Mason, who died when the vehicle he was driving rear-ended a tanker truck.

He attended Healing Hearts, where he found comfort in sharing his grief.

Through tears, he urged the audience to donate to the United Way campaign.

"Thank God for Healing Hearts. Thank God for the United Way. Please don't stop," he said of supporting United Way.

The United Way also sponsors a youth financial literacy course, Reality U. This year, the event will be Nov. 6 and 7. Volunteer signup will be released soon.

The United Way collects change through its Pumpkin Packers during the three homecoming parades throughout the fall in Hays.

United Way is also in the process of updating its Ellis County Resources guide.&nbsp;

If you need assistance in Ellis County and across the state, you can dial 211 for information on community resources.

You can connect with volunteer opportunities in Ellis County at <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/nwksvolunteerorg">www.liveunited.us/nwksvolunteerorg</a>.

You can donate to United Way in various ways. You can make a payroll deduction through your employer, make a one-time donation or make a round-up donation through your checking account.

You can donate to United Way online at <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">liveunited.us</a>. Click on the donate button in the upper right corner of the page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687976834535.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">United Way of Ellis County</a> kicked off its annual fundraising Campaign on Friday at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall in Hays.This year's fundraising goal is $350,000. The campaign's theme is "United We Thrive."The number of non-profit agencies that the United Way funds varies each year, but last year it was 13.These included: • Big Brothers Big Sisters • Cancer Council of Ellis County • Center for Life Experience • Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation • Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) • Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) • STEM Harvest • Salvation Army • First Call for Help • Hays Senior Center • Options Domestic Violence and Sexual Assualt Services • Parents and Children Together • Western Kansas Association on the Concerns of the Disabled • Western Kansas Child Advocacy Center"Without access to resources, people experiencing hard times will have nowhere to turn," Erica Berges, United Way executive director, said. "They will have no chance to get back on their feet and thrive."United Way has expanded its core missions to include youth opportunities, a healthy community, financial security and community&nbsp;resiliency.&nbsp;Representatives of CASA and the Healing Hearts grief support group sponsored by the Center for Life Experience shared their stories during the Hays Chamber luncheon on Friday.Brooke Moore, a court appointed special advocate, talked about the first case she was assigned as a volunteer. The child was a 13-year-old boy, who she called Kevin (not his real name), who had been removed from his home for neglect.CASA volunteers are assigned to child in need of care cases when children are removed from homes for abuse or neglect. It is their job to speak with family members, school officials, caretakers, therapists and anyone else involved in cases so they can speak for the child in court.Kevin's parents, who had mental health issues, struggled to take care of themselves and were not taking care of Kevin. When he lived with his parents, he was forced to act as an adult and ensure his family was cared for and had food.He was bounced back and forth between a stable home with his aunt and an unstable home with his parents.When he was with his aunt, he thrived. The community and school supported him, and he had many friends.However, he was chronically absent from school when he lived with his parents and began falling behind in his academics.Through a series of interviews, Moore learned more about Kevin's situation. Although he loves his parents, he wrote a letter to the judge explaining that he preferred to live with his aunt, where he was safe and cared for.Although a difficult decision, his parents finally signed permanent custody over to Kevin's aunt."I love what I do. I love that you support that," Moore said.Vaughn Marcum of WaKeeney talked about his experience with Healing Hearts.The Center for Life Experience offers three grief support groups: • Healing After Loss of Suicide (HALOS) • Healing After Loss (for those who are grieving for adults) • Healing Hearts (for those who are grieving the loss of children)Marcum said he and his wife lost five family members and a close friend within about two years.However, the most difficult death was their grandson, Mason, who died when the vehicle he was driving rear-ended a tanker truck.He attended Healing Hearts, where he found comfort in sharing his grief."They even cried with me," he said.Through tears, he urged the audience to donate to the United Way campaign."Thank God for Healing Hearts. Thank God for the United Way. Please don't stop," he said of supporting United Way.The United Way also sponsors a youth financial literacy course, Reality U. This year, the event will be Nov. 6 and 7. Volunteer signup will be released soon.The United Way collects change through its Pumpkin Packers during the three homecoming parades throughout the fall in Hays.United Way is also in the process of updating its Ellis County Resources guide.&nbsp;If you need assistance in Ellis County and across the state, you can dial 211 for information on community resources.You can connect with volunteer opportunities in Ellis County at <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/nwksvolunteerorg">www.liveunited.us/nwksvolunteerorg</a>.You can donate to United Way in various ways. You can make a payroll deduction through your employer, make a one-time donation or make a round-up donation through your checking account.You can donate to United Way online at <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">liveunited.us</a>. Click on the donate button in the upper right corner of the page.

CASA, Healing Hearts share stories of how United Way helps community at kickoff

WASHINGTON – As educators gear up for the new school year, the IRS reminds schoolteachers that the maximum deduction for classroom expenses in 2024 remains at $300.&nbsp;

This deduction allows educators to offset the cost of supplies, materials and other classroom essentials, providing some financial relief for those who spend their own money to improve their students' learning experience.&nbsp;

Under federal law, this $300 cap is unchanged from 2023, continuing the adjustment for inflation that began in 2022 when the limit was raised from $250.&nbsp;

Who qualifies for educator expense deductions?

This deduction is available for teachers, instructors, counselors, principals and aides who work at least 900 hours a school year in a school providing elementary or secondary education. Educators filing jointly can claim up to $600 if both spouses are eligible, but no more than $300 per person. Educators can claim this deduction even if they take the standard deduction, and both public and private school educators qualify.&nbsp;

Educators can claim deductions for out-of-pocket expenses on classroom items like books, supplies, equipment (including computers and software) and COVID-19 safety measures such as masks, disinfectants and air purifiers. They may also deduct costs for professional development courses relevant to their teaching, though it could be more advantageous to use other educational tax benefits like the lifetime learning credit (refer to&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fforms-pubs%2Fabout-publication-970/1/0100019175e9d5dc-38b01c64-fe1c-4429-8351-2eead3ec0d04-000000/qjIrg-ZbUxs4hjtWtFh9dz4XxiXKu6IKDBbur3fHaL8=367">Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education</a>, Chapter 3).&nbsp;

Expenses for homeschooling or nonathletic supplies for health or physical education are not eligible. The IRS recommends educators maintain detailed records, such as receipts and canceled checks, to substantiate their deductions.&nbsp;

Use E-file to claim educator expenses

For educators who have been granted a tax filing extension or qualify for a disaster extension, or for any other pertinent reason are still in the process of completing their 2023 tax return, the rules for claiming deductions remain consistent for the 2024 tax year. The filing extension deadline is Oct. 15, 2024. However, submitting a return before this date can aid in averting processing delays.&nbsp;

The IRS advises taxpayers to file electronically for a smoother process, whether they use tax software or a professional. Choose direct deposit for faster refunds. For more details, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fefile/1/0100019175e9d5dc-38b01c64-fe1c-4429-8351-2eead3ec0d04-000000/TVHxAnJ2W1XArcwV7eTqrNBhz_Ca7Ols5TblKY6jDMY=367">E-file options to file your return</a>.&nbsp;

Individuals who owe taxes should consider using&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fpayments%2Fdirect-pay/1/0100019175e9d5dc-38b01c64-fe1c-4429-8351-2eead3ec0d04-000000/ST2BjQAvOmCGxqJrJ2i8M6q8Q9xlKBvKd4IhA2q3b7U=367">IRS Direct Pay</a>&nbsp;or other electronic payment options available at IRS’&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fpayments/1/0100019175e9d5dc-38b01c64-fe1c-4429-8351-2eead3ec0d04-000000/t8Y3-cU8Z3Zl7ypoucLpkPQXbhP5ZOwKCwDjyI3tNqc=367">Make a payment</a>&nbsp;page for convenience.

IRSWASHINGTON – As educators gear up for the new school year, the IRS reminds schoolteachers that the maximum deduction for classroom expenses in 2024 remains at $300.&nbsp;This deduction allows educators to offset the cost of supplies, materials and other classroom essentials, providing some financial relief for those who spend their own money to improve their students' learning experience.&nbsp;Under federal law, this $300 cap is unchanged from 2023, continuing the adjustment for inflation that began in 2022 when the limit was raised from $250.&nbsp;Who qualifies for educator expense deductions?This deduction is available for teachers, instructors, counselors, principals and aides who work at least 900 hours a school year in a school providing elementary or secondary education. Educators filing jointly can claim up to $600 if both spouses are eligible, but no more than $300 per person. Educators can claim this deduction even if they take the standard deduction, and both public and private school educators qualify.&nbsp;What's deductible?Educators can claim deductions for out-of-pocket expenses on classroom items like books, supplies, equipment (including computers and software) and COVID-19 safety measures such as masks, disinfectants and air purifiers. They may also deduct costs for professional development courses relevant to their teaching, though it could be more advantageous to use other educational tax benefits like the lifetime learning credit (refer to&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fforms-pubs%2Fabout-publication-970/1/0100019175e9d5dc-38b01c64-fe1c-4429-8351-2eead3ec0d04-000000/qjIrg-ZbUxs4hjtWtFh9dz4XxiXKu6IKDBbur3fHaL8=367">Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education</a>, Chapter 3).&nbsp;Expenses for homeschooling or nonathletic supplies for health or physical education are not eligible. The IRS recommends educators maintain detailed records, such as receipts and canceled checks, to substantiate their deductions.&nbsp;Use E-file to claim educator expensesFor educators who have been granted a tax filing extension or qualify for a disaster extension, or for any other pertinent reason are still in the process of completing their 2023 tax return, the rules for claiming deductions remain consistent for the 2024 tax year. The filing extension deadline is Oct. 15, 2024. However, submitting a return before this date can aid in averting processing delays.&nbsp;The IRS advises taxpayers to file electronically for a smoother process, whether they use tax software or a professional. Choose direct deposit for faster refunds. For more details, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fefile/1/0100019175e9d5dc-38b01c64-fe1c-4429-8351-2eead3ec0d04-000000/TVHxAnJ2W1XArcwV7eTqrNBhz_Ca7Ols5TblKY6jDMY=367">E-file options to file your return</a>.&nbsp;Individuals who owe taxes should consider using&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fpayments%2Fdirect-pay/1/0100019175e9d5dc-38b01c64-fe1c-4429-8351-2eead3ec0d04-000000/ST2BjQAvOmCGxqJrJ2i8M6q8Q9xlKBvKd4IhA2q3b7U=367">IRS Direct Pay</a>&nbsp;or other electronic payment options available at IRS’&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.irs.gov%2Fpayments/1/0100019175e9d5dc-38b01c64-fe1c-4429-8351-2eead3ec0d04-000000/t8Y3-cU8Z3Zl7ypoucLpkPQXbhP5ZOwKCwDjyI3tNqc=367">Make a payment</a>&nbsp;page for convenience.

IRS reminder for schoolteachers: Up to $300 in classroom expenses deductible for 2024 

Smoky Hills PBS is pleased to announce the airing of a special documentary produced by Fort Hays State University, focusing on the important and often overlooked world of custom harvesting. The documentary, set to air on September 3rd at 7:30 PM, will offer viewers an in-depth look at the lives and work of those who help bring in the harvest across the Midwest and beyond.

The new Tiger Media Network documentary, “Life On The Harvest Run,” explores the lives of two custom harvesting families from Kansas and what their summers on the harvest run are like. Tiger Media Network’s summer interns — Ryan Schuckman, Raegan Neufeld and John Billinger — interviewed the Befort family from Hays and the Froese family from Inman.

The Fort Hays State University students interviewed active and retired custom harvesters to get a mix of present and past perspectives. Interviewees ranged from 20 to 91 years old.

To watch this documentary, tune into Smoky Hills PBS, which can be found through antenna, on many cable systems, Smoky Hills PBS LLS Channel, DirecTV, Dish Network, LocalNow app, YouTube TV, HULU+LIVE TV. You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices. For more information, visit SmokyHillsPBS.org or call 1-800-337-4788.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724778673040.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSmoky Hills PBS is pleased to announce the airing of a special documentary produced by Fort Hays State University, focusing on the important and often overlooked world of custom harvesting. The documentary, set to air on September 3rd at 7:30 PM, will offer viewers an in-depth look at the lives and work of those who help bring in the harvest across the Midwest and beyond.The new Tiger Media Network documentary, “Life On The Harvest Run,” explores the lives of two custom harvesting families from Kansas and what their summers on the harvest run are like. Tiger Media Network’s summer interns — Ryan Schuckman, Raegan Neufeld and John Billinger — interviewed the Befort family from Hays and the Froese family from Inman.The Fort Hays State University students interviewed active and retired custom harvesters to get a mix of present and past perspectives. Interviewees ranged from 20 to 91 years old.Air Times:Tuesday, Sept. 3 at 7:30 PMWednesday, Sept. 4 at 2:30 PMThursday, Sept. 26 at 2 PMWays to Watch:To watch this documentary, tune into Smoky Hills PBS, which can be found through antenna, on many cable systems, Smoky Hills PBS LLS Channel, DirecTV, Dish Network, LocalNow app, YouTube TV, HULU+LIVE TV. You can also access Smoky Hills PBS via the FREE mobile app for Android and iPhone devices. For more information, visit SmokyHillsPBS.org or call 1-800-337-4788.

Smoky Hills PBS to air FHSU documentary on custom harvesting

Cereal rye can provide excellent weed suppression as a cover crop; however, it should be handled carefully. Cereal rye can be introduced into a wheat field by contamination of harvest or seed conditioning equipment, dry fertilizer spreaders, or drills. Seeds and pollen can also be moved by wind or other natural means.

Cereal rye is very similar to wheat in terms of life cycle, growth requirements, and appearance. There are a few features that distinguish rye from wheat. First, cereal rye is generally taller than winter wheat, and the seed heads are usually longer and thinner. Other differences require a closer look. The ligule of cereal rye does not have a fringe of hairs (winter wheat does), and cereal rye does not have prominent auricles (winter wheat does). Cereal rye seeds are longer than wheat seeds and usually shaded more yellow or green rather than red.

Chemical control in wheat is limited to herbicide-tolerant varieties (discussed later in this article). Because there are few herbicide options in crops, preventing the introduction of cereal rye into wheat fields is critical. Cleaning equipment and planting weed-free seed are two important measures. Control during other phases of the crop rotation is also important. For example, letting rye emerge during a fallow phase of the rotation and applying glyphosate and/or atrazine. Hand rouging has long been used to remove cereal rye from wheat.

Herbicide-tolerant wheat varieties - Clearfield wheat varieties allow the use of Beyond (imazamox). Imazamox is more effective on other cool-season grass weeds, and only provides suppression of cereal rye. If you choose a Clearfield variety, be sure to spray before rye tillers and use a nitrogen fertilizer (up to 50% of the spray solution). Two applications (fall and spring) will provide better control than a single application.

CoAXium wheat varieties allow the use of Aggressor (quizalofop). Quizalofop provides excellent control of cereal rye. In studies at Great Bend control was 94% or greater with 10 or 12 fl oz of Aggressor applied with either NIS or MSO in fall or spring. Quizalofop is a Group 1 herbicide that only controls grasses.

In both systems, cereal rye control will be reduced if applications are made when temperatures are below 40F during the week following application.

Reminder Control Volunteer Wheat - since we have been fortunate enough to get some much-needed moisture in the last month or so. Any volunteer wheat that has came up will need to be controlled before wheat is drilled. It is recommended to have all volunteer wheat controlled two weeks prior to any wheat being planted. To allow sufficient time for the wheat curl mites to die off. The mites preferred host plant is wheat, so any volunteer wheat around will more than likely

harbor wheat curl mites. Which are important vectors of wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV), one of the most destructive wheat diseases in Kansas.

One tool in the toolbox - other than timely control of volunteer wheat, genetic resistance is also an important tool for WSMV control. Genetic resistance to wheat streak mosaic can also reduce the risk of severe disease problems. There are currently several wheat varieties adapted to Kansas that have wheat streak mosaic virus resistance. To see what those varieties are go to the July 18th issue of K-State Agronomy eUpdate.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

Cereal rye can provide excellent weed suppression as a cover crop; however, it should be handled carefully. Cereal rye can be introduced into a wheat field by contamination of harvest or seed conditioning equipment, dry fertilizer spreaders, or drills. Seeds and pollen can also be moved by wind or other natural means.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Cereal rye is very similar to wheat in terms of life cycle, growth requirements, and appearance. There are a few features that distinguish rye from wheat. First, cereal rye is generally taller than winter wheat, and the seed heads are usually longer and thinner. Other differences require a closer look. The ligule of cereal rye does not have a fringe of hairs (winter wheat does), and cereal rye does not have prominent auricles (winter wheat does). Cereal rye seeds are longer than wheat seeds and usually shaded more yellow or green rather than red.Chemical control in wheat is limited to herbicide-tolerant varieties (discussed later in this article). Because there are few herbicide options in crops, preventing the introduction of cereal rye into wheat fields is critical. Cleaning equipment and planting weed-free seed are two important measures. Control during other phases of the crop rotation is also important. For example, letting rye emerge during a fallow phase of the rotation and applying glyphosate and/or atrazine. Hand rouging has long been used to remove cereal rye from wheat.Herbicide-tolerant wheat varieties - Clearfield wheat varieties allow the use of Beyond (imazamox). Imazamox is more effective on other cool-season grass weeds, and only provides suppression of cereal rye. If you choose a Clearfield variety, be sure to spray before rye tillers and use a nitrogen fertilizer (up to 50% of the spray solution). Two applications (fall and spring) will provide better control than a single application.CoAXium wheat varieties allow the use of Aggressor (quizalofop). Quizalofop provides excellent control of cereal rye. In studies at Great Bend control was 94% or greater with 10 or 12 fl oz of Aggressor applied with either NIS or MSO in fall or spring. Quizalofop is a Group 1 herbicide that only controls grasses.In both systems, cereal rye control will be reduced if applications are made when temperatures are below 40F during the week following application.Reminder Control Volunteer Wheat - since we have been fortunate enough to get some much-needed moisture in the last month or so. Any volunteer wheat that has came up will need to be controlled before wheat is drilled. It is recommended to have all volunteer wheat controlled two weeks prior to any wheat being planted. To allow sufficient time for the wheat curl mites to die off. The mites preferred host plant is wheat, so any volunteer wheat around will more than likelyharbor wheat curl mites. Which are important vectors of wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV), one of the most destructive wheat diseases in Kansas.One tool in the toolbox - other than timely control of volunteer wheat, genetic resistance is also an important tool for WSMV control. Genetic resistance to wheat streak mosaic can also reduce the risk of severe disease problems. There are currently several wheat varieties adapted to Kansas that have wheat streak mosaic virus resistance. To see what those varieties are go to the July 18th issue of K-State Agronomy eUpdate.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

Campbell: Cereal rye control in wheat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725052356496.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>

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

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Fdata=05%257C02%257CMitchell.Osterlund%2540ks.gov%257C1cd3a936536b4e59e9e108dc54e79f5f%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638478600986899489%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26reserved=0%26sdata=gh0UOvfwui0cf3SYY%252FtSybeDtzaP0S0s30mSnLSZWLo%253D%26url=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%252F1163%252FReport-an-Illness-or-Health-Incident%253Futm_medium%253Demail%2526utm_source%253Dgovdelivery%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000191a48dcae5-ef50ff63-8c61-4c29-bd65-9f01500afc67-000000/1UFDAVHVAGZAPnYxefO6uiXdDTwOtjSux6Q9jFt5eRQ=368">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;

When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure.&nbsp; Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.

&nbsp;When a watch is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.

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

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

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Fdata=05%257C02%257CMitchell.Osterlund%2540ks.gov%257C1cd3a936536b4e59e9e108dc54e79f5f%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638478600986906897%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26reserved=0%26sdata=u%252BbLEJUdhYodeN5DvEpjEA1Hokw20J0k1FV3lwGz1SE%253D%26url=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%252F777%252FHarmful-Algal-Blooms%253Futm_medium%253Demail%2526utm_source%253Dgovdelivery%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000191a48dcae5-ef50ff63-8c61-4c29-bd65-9f01500afc67-000000/Ww2Ylhr7seADHvxtkmC3vnmQRihojPETcM9i8fwT2OQ=368">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Fdata=05%257C02%257CMitchell.Osterlund%2540ks.gov%257C1cd3a936536b4e59e9e108dc54e79f5f%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638478600986913244%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26reserved=0%26sdata=tmtASIG131UZlzpnDkuI5ek95gA2lV6hPBc0jvIPpIQ%253D%26url=https%253A%252F%252Fstorymaps.arcgis.com%252Fstories%252Fc070c80592934730834c194280300ecb%253Futm_medium%253Demail%2526utm_source%253Dgovdelivery%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000191a48dcae5-ef50ff63-8c61-4c29-bd65-9f01500afc67-000000/-9Ip7PZ2vUSOVzxmKVh6hMTOgMsd7sWWf0grIm4p5x4=368">interactive story</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Fdata=05%257C02%257CMitchell.Osterlund%2540ks.gov%257C1cd3a936536b4e59e9e108dc54e79f5f%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638478600986921127%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26reserved=0%26sdata=%252F%252BqH73vzmA5iq%252BvqwYnmgFk7Ecd8e2ejVph4NyIQg9g%253D%26url=https%253A%252F%252Fvimeo.com%252F923808299%253Futm_medium%253Demail%2526utm_source%253Dgovdelivery%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000191a48dcae5-ef50ff63-8c61-4c29-bd65-9f01500afc67-000000/UCL27mdK24ODHhsvZangwWw7kZnyDJN77NZcIZwbT5Q=368">informative video</a>.

KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green algae.A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Fdata=05%257C02%257CMitchell.Osterlund%2540ks.gov%257C1cd3a936536b4e59e9e108dc54e79f5f%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638478600986899489%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26reserved=0%26sdata=gh0UOvfwui0cf3SYY%252FtSybeDtzaP0S0s30mSnLSZWLo%253D%26url=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%252F1163%252FReport-an-Illness-or-Health-Incident%253Futm_medium%253Demail%2526utm_source%253Dgovdelivery%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000191a48dcae5-ef50ff63-8c61-4c29-bd65-9f01500afc67-000000/1UFDAVHVAGZAPnYxefO6uiXdDTwOtjSux6Q9jFt5eRQ=368">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.Active AdvisoriesWarning&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Atchison City Lake #8, Atchison County (Elevated Aug. 30)</li><li>Augusta City Lake, Butler County (Elevated Aug. 30)</li><li>Gathering Pond, Geary County</li><li>Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County</li><li>Horsethief Reservoir, Hodgeman County (Added Aug. 30)</li><li>Lake Afton, Sedgwick County</li><li>Melvern Outlet River Pond, Osage County</li>
 </ul>Watch&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Amesbury Lake, Johnson County</li><li>Atchison State Fishing Lake, Atchison County</li><li>Eagle Lake (Bel Aire), Sedgwick County</li><li>King Lake, Lyon County</li><li>Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County</li><li>Louisburg City Lake, Miami County</li><li>Melvern Outlet Swim Pond, Osage County</li>
 </ul>Lifted&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Cedar Lake, Johnson County</li><li>Sabetha City Lake, Nemaha County</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.</li><li>In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.</li><li>When partial closures (i.e., beach or cove) are issued, the remaining lake or zone area will carry a warning status.</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure.&nbsp; Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.</li><li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.&nbsp;</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.&nbsp;</li><li>Water contact should be avoided.&nbsp;</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.&nbsp;</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.&nbsp;</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.&nbsp;When a watch is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.</li><li>Clean fish thoroughly with potable water and eat fillet portion only.</li>
 </ul>Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Fdata=05%257C02%257CMitchell.Osterlund%2540ks.gov%257C1cd3a936536b4e59e9e108dc54e79f5f%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638478600986906897%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26reserved=0%26sdata=u%252BbLEJUdhYodeN5DvEpjEA1Hokw20J0k1FV3lwGz1SE%253D%26url=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%252F777%252FHarmful-Algal-Blooms%253Futm_medium%253Demail%2526utm_source%253Dgovdelivery%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000191a48dcae5-ef50ff63-8c61-4c29-bd65-9f01500afc67-000000/Ww2Ylhr7seADHvxtkmC3vnmQRihojPETcM9i8fwT2OQ=368">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Fdata=05%257C02%257CMitchell.Osterlund%2540ks.gov%257C1cd3a936536b4e59e9e108dc54e79f5f%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638478600986913244%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26reserved=0%26sdata=tmtASIG131UZlzpnDkuI5ek95gA2lV6hPBc0jvIPpIQ%253D%26url=https%253A%252F%252Fstorymaps.arcgis.com%252Fstories%252Fc070c80592934730834c194280300ecb%253Futm_medium%253Demail%2526utm_source%253Dgovdelivery%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000191a48dcae5-ef50ff63-8c61-4c29-bd65-9f01500afc67-000000/-9Ip7PZ2vUSOVzxmKVh6hMTOgMsd7sWWf0grIm4p5x4=368">interactive story</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%2F%3Fdata=05%257C02%257CMitchell.Osterlund%2540ks.gov%257C1cd3a936536b4e59e9e108dc54e79f5f%257Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%257C0%257C0%257C638478600986921127%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26reserved=0%26sdata=%252F%252BqH73vzmA5iq%252BvqwYnmgFk7Ecd8e2ejVph4NyIQg9g%253D%26url=https%253A%252F%252Fvimeo.com%252F923808299%253Futm_medium%253Demail%2526utm_source%253Dgovdelivery%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000191a48dcae5-ef50ff63-8c61-4c29-bd65-9f01500afc67-000000/UCL27mdK24ODHhsvZangwWw7kZnyDJN77NZcIZwbT5Q=368">informative video</a>.###

Public Health Advisories for Kansas Lakes due to blue-green algae

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the Nicodemus Township public water supply system located in Graham County. The advisory was issued because the Township 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 Nicodemus Township 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 water system at: 785-421-7083 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%2F468%2FConsumer-Information-Regarding-a-Disrupt%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000191a4ca4020-b201cabb-2021-492e-941b-4d227bb98764-000000/AbBCNQrEybW1y3F-qUBToB0W_3BnvvfGFdMgATnV3yw=368">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>.

KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the Nicodemus Township public water supply system located in Graham County. The advisory was issued because the Township 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 Nicodemus Township 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 water system at: 785-421-7083 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%2F468%2FConsumer-Information-Regarding-a-Disrupt%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000191a4ca4020-b201cabb-2021-492e-941b-4d227bb98764-000000/AbBCNQrEybW1y3F-qUBToB0W_3BnvvfGFdMgATnV3yw=368">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>.

Boil Water Advisory rescinded for Nicodemus Township, Graham County

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Judge Tommy Webb.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/toeed9oN0ik?si=Pq2NXG8GGlbXhy_3" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Judge Tommy Webb.

🎤Forward Ever: Judge Tommy Webb

TREGO COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Friday in Trego County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Kenworth semi driven by&nbsp; Cristafer L.&nbsp; Strannigan, 52,&nbsp;Lake Lotawana, Missouri, was eastbound on Interstate 70 one half mile east of WaKeeney.

The vehicle traveled off the roadway to the right into the south ditch. The semi struck a KDOT fence, powerline guide wire and came to rest upright, facing east in a field.

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

TREGO COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1p.m. Friday in Trego County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Kenworth semi driven by&nbsp; Cristafer L.&nbsp; Strannigan, 52,&nbsp;Lake Lotawana, Missouri, was eastbound on Interstate 70 one half mile east of WaKeeney.The vehicle traveled off the roadway to the right into the south ditch. The semi struck a KDOT fence, powerline guide wire and came to rest upright, facing east in a field.EMS transported&nbsp; Strannigan to&nbsp;Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after I-70 semi crash into KDOT fence

Phillips County swine farmer guilty of trespass, nuisance violations goes 0-3 in state courts

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Northwest Kansas hog farmer Terry Nelson’s campaign to convince the judicial system he had a legal right to install a livestock sewage pipeline along a public road in the right-of-way on neighbors’ property without government or landowner permission has come to an end in state courts.

The Kansas Supreme Court, in a unanimous opinion, affirmed previous decisions of the Kansas Court of Appeals and the Phillips County District Court that Nelson engaged in trespass in 2017 by building an unauthorized pipeline on property owned by neighbors Rodney Ross and Laura Field. Nelson began using the pipeline in 2019. The state’s highest court agreed Nelson created a nuisance by spraying foul-smelling hog feces through a pivot irrigation system onto fields near Ross’ home.

Ross and Field filed a lawsuit based on claims of trespass and nuisance. In 2021, the district court ordered Nelson to pay Ross and Field a combined $178,000 for thumbing his nose at state laws and infringing on the plaintiffs’ private property rights.

Justice Keynen “K.J.” Wall,&nbsp; a native of Scott City and an appointee of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, wrote in the opinion that Nelson installed a permanent pipeline for private use within the framework of a public highway. The line was improper because it exceeded scope of the highway easement and didn’t meet quality standards. In the view of Supreme Court justices, Nelson build the pipeline “for his private and exclusive use, rather than a public one.”

During the case, the prominent Kansas hog producer claimed the public benefit of his pipeline was it contributed to operation of a company that raised hogs eventually sold to consumers as pork products.

The Supreme Court opinion says Nelson also contended he had a right to “transport” property in the form of sewage along the road as a member of the public.

“Nelson did not have Ross’ permission to install the pipelines. Nor did he have permission from any other body with authority to permit the installation. Thus, Nelson committed trespass as a matter of law,” Wall concluded. “Nelson’s pipelines thus infringed on the private property rights of Ross — the fee owner who retained all rights in the subsurface not included within the easement.”

On appeal, Nelson’s attorneys unsuccessfully argued his conduct was protected by the Right to Farm law designed to curtail anti-agricultural lawsuits. That law was designed to immunize agricultural activities that came into conflict with encroachment by population expansion. Nelson’s problem, however, was that he was guilty of trespass and therefore precluded from leaning on the right-to-farm statute to defend the pipeline.

“We agree with the district court and (Court of Appeals) panel that Nelson’s agricultural activity failed to conform to state law,” Wall’s opinion said. “He is not entitled to … presumption that he was engaging in good agricultural practices.”

In Phillips County District Court, a judge granted Ross and Field summary judgment and $63,000 each on trespass claims because the pipeline along the public road ran across their land and Nelson never had permission from them to proceed. Ross was awarded $52,000 in actual and punitive damages based on his nuisance claim because Nelson’s fertilizer spray drifted to Ross’ farmhouse and created unbearable fly infestations.

“This arrangement has ruffled more than a few feathers,” Wall’s opinion says. “Or, should we say wrinkled more than a few noses?”

In September 2023, the Court of Appeals affirmed the district court’s decisions and financial judgments. The Supreme Court conducted oral argument in the case during May and issued Wall’s written opinion last week, which echoed both lower courts.

Agricultural lobby organizations and a handful of Kansas House members were unsuccessful during the 2022 legislative session with their attempt to pass a bill that would have helped farmers such as Nelson who sought to install pipelines in right-of-way on property owned by someone else.

In 2018, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment fined Nelson about $150,000 for constructing hog barns and waste storage facilities in Phillips and Norton counties without required state permits and for ignoring cease-and-desist orders issued by KDHE lawyers. Nelson negotiated the KDHE penalty down to $34,000.

The Kansas Sierra Club, which had filed a lawsuit against Nelson challenging a separate hog facility issue, complained the penalty was “not even a slap on the wrist. More like a gentle tap.”

<h2>Phillips County swine farmer guilty of trespass, nuisance violations goes 0-3 in state courts</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725036149154.jpg" alt="The Kansas Supreme Court unanimously affirmed two lower court decisions that found prominent northwest Kansas farmer Terry Nelson broke trespass and nuisance laws by building a hog sewage pipeline along public roads on property owned by two neighbors without consent of those landowners or local government. The courts affirmed awarding $178,000 in actual and punitive damages to Nelson's neighbors who filed a lawsuit. Photo courtesy of Pixabay&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Supreme Court unanimously affirmed two lower court decisions that found prominent northwest Kansas farmer Terry Nelson broke trespass and nuisance laws by building a hog sewage pipeline along public roads on property owned by two neighbors without consent of those landowners or local government. The courts affirmed awarding $178,000 in actual and punitive damages to Nelson's neighbors who filed a lawsuit. Photo courtesy of Pixabay&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Northwest Kansas hog farmer Terry Nelson’s campaign to convince the judicial system he had a legal right to install a livestock sewage pipeline along a public road in the right-of-way on neighbors’ property without government or landowner permission has come to an end in state courts.The Kansas Supreme Court, in a unanimous opinion, affirmed previous decisions of the Kansas Court of Appeals and the Phillips County District Court that Nelson engaged in trespass in 2017 by building an unauthorized pipeline on property owned by neighbors Rodney Ross and Laura Field. Nelson began using the pipeline in 2019. The state’s highest court agreed Nelson created a nuisance by spraying foul-smelling hog feces through a pivot irrigation system onto fields near Ross’ home.Ross and Field filed a lawsuit based on claims of trespass and nuisance. In 2021, the district court ordered Nelson to pay Ross and Field a combined $178,000 for thumbing his nose at state laws and infringing on the plaintiffs’ private property rights.Justice Keynen “K.J.” Wall,&nbsp; a native of Scott City and an appointee of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, wrote in the opinion that Nelson installed a permanent pipeline for private use within the framework of a public highway. The line was improper because it exceeded scope of the highway easement and didn’t meet quality standards. In the view of Supreme Court justices, Nelson build the pipeline “for his private and exclusive use, rather than a public one.”During the case, the prominent Kansas hog producer claimed the public benefit of his pipeline was it contributed to operation of a company that raised hogs eventually sold to consumers as pork products.The Supreme Court opinion says Nelson also contended he had a right to “transport” property in the form of sewage along the road as a member of the public.“Nelson did not have Ross’ permission to install the pipelines. Nor did he have permission from any other body with authority to permit the installation. Thus, Nelson committed trespass as a matter of law,” Wall concluded. “Nelson’s pipelines thus infringed on the private property rights of Ross — the fee owner who retained all rights in the subsurface not included within the easement.”On appeal, Nelson’s attorneys unsuccessfully argued his conduct was protected by the Right to Farm law designed to curtail anti-agricultural lawsuits. That law was designed to immunize agricultural activities that came into conflict with encroachment by population expansion. Nelson’s problem, however, was that he was guilty of trespass and therefore precluded from leaning on the right-to-farm statute to defend the pipeline.“We agree with the district court and (Court of Appeals) panel that Nelson’s agricultural activity failed to conform to state law,” Wall’s opinion said. “He is not entitled to … presumption that he was engaging in good agricultural practices.”In Phillips County District Court, a judge granted Ross and Field summary judgment and $63,000 each on trespass claims because the pipeline along the public road ran across their land and Nelson never had permission from them to proceed. Ross was awarded $52,000 in actual and punitive damages based on his nuisance claim because Nelson’s fertilizer spray drifted to Ross’ farmhouse and created unbearable fly infestations.“This arrangement has ruffled more than a few feathers,” Wall’s opinion says. “Or, should we say wrinkled more than a few noses?”In September 2023, the Court of Appeals affirmed the district court’s decisions and financial judgments. The Supreme Court conducted oral argument in the case during May and issued Wall’s written opinion last week, which echoed both lower courts.Agricultural lobby organizations and a handful of Kansas House members were unsuccessful during the 2022 legislative session with their attempt to pass a bill that would have helped farmers such as Nelson who sought to install pipelines in right-of-way on property owned by someone else.In 2018, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment fined Nelson about $150,000 for constructing hog barns and waste storage facilities in Phillips and Norton counties without required state permits and for ignoring cease-and-desist orders issued by KDHE lawyers. Nelson negotiated the KDHE penalty down to $34,000.The Kansas Sierra Club, which had filed a lawsuit against Nelson challenging a separate hog facility issue, complained the penalty was “not even a slap on the wrist. More like a gentle tap.”

Kansas Supreme Court closes valve in protracted dispute on illegal hog-effluent pipeline

Hays received .93 inches of rain at the Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, on Thursday.

No official K-State Ag Research Center report has been received as of this post.

Hays has received 5.18 inches of rain for August and 19.08 inches of precipitation year to date.

That exceeds the 3.01-inch average for August and the 17.70-inch year-to-date average.

No further rain is expected through Thursday with highs in the 80s.

The Kansas Drought Monitor listed Ellis County in moderate drought as of Tuesday, but that did not include Thursday night's rain.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays received .93 inches of rain at the Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, on Thursday.No official K-State Ag Research Center report has been received as of this post.Hays has received 5.18 inches of rain for August and 19.08 inches of precipitation year to date.That exceeds the 3.01-inch average for August and the 17.70-inch year-to-date average.No further rain is expected through Thursday with highs in the 80s.The Kansas Drought Monitor listed Ellis County in moderate drought as of Tuesday, but that did not include Thursday night's rain.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1725034676390.png" alt="Kansas Drought Monitor as of Tuesday" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Drought Monitor as of Tuesday</figcaption>
 </figure>

Rain Thursday but clear skies, cooler for Labor Day weekend

Campers are suiting up into their favorite costumes in preparation for their Center Stage Theatre performance.

Center Stage Theatre is an organization that showcases the talents of individuals with disabilities.

The Center Stage Theatre performance is set for 7 p.m. Saturday&nbsp;at Celebration Community Church, 5790 230th Ave. It is free for everyone to attend and watch the campers dive into the exciting world of Comic-Con.

Camp director Annie Wasinger said the superhero-themed play mirrors the world's diverse range of people and personalities.

"If art is going to imitate life, it has to reflect the diversity of humanity, so the best art is when there's a diverse cast of characters," she said.

The show follows a group of friends attending Comic-Con for the first time, who compete in a friendly competition to see who can claim the title of best cosplayer.

The play features campers bringing to life iconic superheroes like Spider-Man, Batman, Wolverine, Captain America, and Mario, as well as infamous villains such as The Joker, Harley Quinn and Bowser.

It's a bird, it's a plane, it’s Tyler Jones as Superman, who said he is looking forward to this weekend and encouraged everyone to come and watch.

"I'm excited for the show, and I'm excited to be Superman," he said. "I've been toiling away."

Jones is a six-year camper and said his favorite part of camp is singing and spending time with his friends.

Wasinger said the atmosphere is always positive, and it is important to provide opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

"I see camp as putting everyone at center stage where they belong and correcting that wrong of excluding people from the arts because it's beneficial for everyone to have the opportunity to express themselves," she said.

The first few scenes will spotlight returning campers, like Jones, who set the stage for the story before everyone else joins in for the Comic-Con setting.

What sets this year's performance apart from previous shows is the larger cast size, with about 30 people involved in the production.

"There's such as a sense of collective acceptance for any expression of art," Wasinger said. "I feel like it's grown in energy over the years."

Wasinger said participating in theatre benefits everyone, including building confidence and encouraging people to step outside their comfort zone.

Putting together a play is challenging for anyone, but Wasinger recognizes that the show's cast features a group that the community may not be familiar with.

"I definitely don't think anyone will walk in and leave without a smile on their face, having met a friend or made a friend," she said.

Wasinger, a Hays native now living in Wichita, has been traveling to Celebration Community Church to direct, write and produce for Center Stage Theatre.

You can learn more about Center Stage Theatre Camp on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CenterStageTheatreCamp">Facebook page</a> and visit the Celebration Community Church <a href="https://celebratejesus.org/">website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724867877859.jpeg" alt="Center Stage Theatre campers on stage at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Center Stage Theatre campers on stage at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>TONY GUERRERO Hays PostCampers are suiting up into their favorite costumes in preparation for their Center Stage Theatre performance.Center Stage Theatre is an organization that showcases the talents of individuals with disabilities.The Center Stage Theatre performance is set for 7 p.m. Saturday&nbsp;at Celebration Community Church, 5790 230th Ave. It is free for everyone to attend and watch the campers dive into the exciting world of Comic-Con.Camp director Annie Wasinger said the superhero-themed play mirrors the world's diverse range of people and personalities."If art is going to imitate life, it has to reflect the diversity of humanity, so the best art is when there's a diverse cast of characters," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724868632090.jpeg" alt="Annie Wasinger directing campers on stage at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Annie Wasinger directing campers on stage at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724876867368.jpeg" alt="Center Stage Theatre campers striking a pose on stage at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Center Stage Theatre campers striking a pose on stage at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724876944359.jpeg" alt="Center Stage Theatre campers striking a pose on stage at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Center Stage Theatre campers striking a pose on stage at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The show follows a group of friends attending Comic-Con for the first time, who compete in a friendly competition to see who can claim the title of best cosplayer.The play features campers bringing to life iconic superheroes like Spider-Man, Batman, Wolverine, Captain America, and Mario, as well as infamous villains such as The Joker, Harley Quinn and Bowser.It's a bird, it's a plane, it’s Tyler Jones as Superman, who said he is looking forward to this weekend and encouraged everyone to come and watch."I'm excited for the show, and I'm excited to be Superman," he said. "I've been toiling away."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724870057056.jpeg" alt="Tyler Jones in a Superman mask during rehearsals at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Tyler Jones in a Superman mask during rehearsals at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Jones is a six-year camper and said his favorite part of camp is singing and spending time with his friends.Wasinger said the atmosphere is always positive, and it is important to provide opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities."I see camp as putting everyone at center stage where they belong and correcting that wrong of excluding people from the arts because it's beneficial for everyone to have the opportunity to express themselves," she said.The first few scenes will spotlight returning campers, like Jones, who set the stage for the story before everyone else joins in for the Comic-Con setting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724877020642.jpeg" alt="Center Stage Theatre campers in costume at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Center Stage Theatre campers in costume at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724877039148.jpeg" alt="Center Stage Theatre campers in costume at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Center Stage Theatre campers in costume at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>What sets this year's performance apart from previous shows is the larger cast size, with about 30 people involved in the production."There's such as a sense of collective acceptance for any expression of art," Wasinger said. "I feel like it's grown in energy over the years."Wasinger said participating in theatre benefits everyone, including building confidence and encouraging people to step outside their comfort zone.Putting together a play is challenging for anyone, but Wasinger recognizes that the show's cast features a group that the community may not be familiar with."I definitely don't think anyone will walk in and leave without a smile on their face, having met a friend or made a friend," she said.Wasinger, a Hays native now living in Wichita, has been traveling to Celebration Community Church to direct, write and produce for Center Stage Theatre.You can learn more about Center Stage Theatre Camp on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CenterStageTheatreCamp">Facebook page</a> and visit the Celebration Community Church <a href="https://celebratejesus.org/">website</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724877109101.jpeg" alt="Center Stage Theatre campers in costume at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Center Stage Theatre campers in costume at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724877164626.jpeg" alt="Two Center Stage Theatre campers as Spider-Man at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Two Center Stage Theatre campers as Spider-Man at Celebration Community Church. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>