During the Click It or Ticket Campaign, Ellis County
Sheriff’s Office conducted overtime saturation patrols to enforce Kansas
occupant restraint, texting, impaired driving, and other traffic laws. 

During
the campaign (May 19 - June 2), officers wrote 12&nbsp; safety
belt citations, 3 speeding citations, and 2 other citations and arrests,
including 1 DUI arrest. 37 vehicle stops were made during the campaign.

According to Sheriff Scott Braun, “We are here to enforce
all Kansas Traffic Laws and ultimately, to decrease unsafe driving
behavior.&nbsp; If you were stopped, we hope
you learned from the experience.&nbsp; If so,
we have made the roads a little safer for you and those you share the road
with.&nbsp; We will continue to do that
because, while the 2024 Click It or Ticket campaign may be over, traffic
enforcement never is.”&nbsp; 

Buckle up for yourself, your family, your friends.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614390375120.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County Sheriff's DepartmentDuring the Click It or Ticket Campaign, Ellis County
Sheriff’s Office conducted overtime saturation patrols to enforce Kansas
occupant restraint, texting, impaired driving, and other traffic laws. During
the campaign (May 19 - June 2), officers wrote 12&nbsp; safety
belt citations, 3 speeding citations, and 2 other citations and arrests,
including 1 DUI arrest. 37 vehicle stops were made during the campaign.According to Sheriff Scott Braun, “We are here to enforce
all Kansas Traffic Laws and ultimately, to decrease unsafe driving
behavior.&nbsp; If you were stopped, we hope
you learned from the experience.&nbsp; If so,
we have made the roads a little safer for you and those you share the road
with.&nbsp; We will continue to do that
because, while the 2024 Click It or Ticket campaign may be over, traffic
enforcement never is.”&nbsp; Buckle up for yourself, your family, your friends.

Ellis County Sheriff made 37 traffic stops during Click It or Ticket campaign

<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/2024/6/1718317007011.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

FHSU crime log June 7-13, 2024

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The hard work of an employee couple at Hays Trio Tap House has paid off as they have become the new owners.

Clay and Claudia Gilbert have worked at the tap house, 1106 E. 27th St. Suite 10, for about nine years and are now stepping up to run the steakhouse.

The newlyweds first crossed paths while holding various positions at the restaurant, including server, bartender, supervisor and manager.

"That's where we first met was through working there. We didn't start dating or become a couple until 2019," Clay said.

Established 10 years ago, Trio Tap House was owned by Mario Gutierrez, who had long planned to step away from the business.

Discussions about changing ownership began in 2023 when Mario approached Clay with his and Claudia's dream offer.

"I went home and told Claudia, and she was ecstatic. She was ready to go," Clay said.

With the purchase finalized on May 15, Clay and Claudia plan to maintain the restaurant, making only minor changes by introducing new dishes.

"What we're trying to do is not change what's been working but bring in some different things," Claudia said.

The current menu features handcrafted salads, prime steaks, seafood, burgers and an array of sandwiches and cocktails.

As employees, Clay and Claudia yearned to have their own restaurant or take over one of Mario's locations in Hays.

"We were excited. It was one of those surreal moments like it could actually be happening after all those years of joking around," Clay said.

Mario's second location, <a href="https://www.gutzmex.com/">Gutierrez Mexican Restaurant</a> at 1106 E. 27th St., originated in Russell in 1972 before relocating to Hays in 1984.

Trio Tap House is named after Mario's three sons, each of whom has found success outside the culinary industry, from running a boat company in Texas to pursuing an acting career in New York City.

After entrusting his business to Clay and Claudia, Mario remains committed to helping the couple manage his former eatery.

"We've always been entrepreneurs in the community and we just want to back off and pass the torch to the next people...," Mario said.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for later this year, but no official date is set. Clay and Claudia celebrated their first anniversary on May 27 after purchasing the tap house.

"He offered us this opportunity, and it was everything we had been talking about and praying for," Claudia said.

Mario and his wife, Karen Gutierrez, hope to focus more on their family. Their three sons and one daughter live outside Hays.

"We're looking to take time to do things we want to do," Mario said. "Mainly spend more time with our grandchildren and our own children," Mario said.

Trio Tap House is open: 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.Thursday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday

You can visit Trio Tap House's website <a href="https://www.triotaphouse.com/">here</a> and follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TRIOHays/">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718214767730.jpeg" alt="The outside of Trio Tap House and Gutierrez Mexican Restaurants sign. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The outside of Trio Tap House and Gutierrez Mexican Restaurants sign. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe hard work of an employee couple at Hays Trio Tap House has paid off as they have become the new owners.Clay and Claudia Gilbert have worked at the tap house, 1106 E. 27th St. Suite 10, for about nine years and are now stepping up to run the steakhouse.The newlyweds first crossed paths while holding various positions at the restaurant, including server, bartender, supervisor and manager."That's where we first met was through working there. We didn't start dating or become a couple until 2019," Clay said.Established 10 years ago, Trio Tap House was owned by Mario Gutierrez, who had long planned to step away from the business.Discussions about changing ownership began in 2023 when Mario approached Clay with his and Claudia's dream offer."I went home and told Claudia, and she was ecstatic. She was ready to go," Clay said.With the purchase finalized on May 15, Clay and Claudia plan to maintain the restaurant, making only minor changes by introducing new dishes."What we're trying to do is not change what's been working but bring in some different things," Claudia said.The current menu features handcrafted salads, prime steaks, seafood, burgers and an array of sandwiches and cocktails.As employees, Clay and Claudia yearned to have their own restaurant or take over one of Mario's locations in Hays."We were excited. It was one of those surreal moments like it could actually be happening after all those years of joking around," Clay said.Mario's second location, <a href="https://www.gutzmex.com/">Gutierrez Mexican Restaurant</a> at 1106 E. 27th St., originated in Russell in 1972 before relocating to Hays in 1984.Trio Tap House is named after Mario's three sons, each of whom has found success outside the culinary industry, from running a boat company in Texas to pursuing an acting career in New York City.After entrusting his business to Clay and Claudia, Mario remains committed to helping the couple manage his former eatery."We've always been entrepreneurs in the community and we just want to back off and pass the torch to the next people...," Mario said.A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for later this year, but no official date is set. Clay and Claudia celebrated their first anniversary on May 27 after purchasing the tap house."He offered us this opportunity, and it was everything we had been talking about and praying for," Claudia said.Mario and his wife, Karen Gutierrez, hope to focus more on their family. Their three sons and one daughter live outside Hays."We're looking to take time to do things we want to do," Mario said. "Mainly spend more time with our grandchildren and our own children," Mario said.Trio Tap House is open: 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.Thursday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday You can visit Trio Tap House's website <a href="https://www.triotaphouse.com/">here</a> and follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TRIOHays/">Facebook</a>.

Former employees new owners of Hays' Trio Tap House

The Hays Larks are inviting everyone to the 15th annual
Military Appreciation Night in conjunction with their game against the Colorado
Roughriders on Saturday, June 15th at Larks Park at 7 p.m.&nbsp; All active, reserve, and retired military
personnel are specially invited to attend and will be honored on the field
during pregame ceremonies. Military personnel will also be recognized after the
6th inning prior to the singing of “God Bless America”. Military personnel in
attendance should check in at the east side of the grandstand by 6:45 pm
Saturday evening.

Fans are encouraged to be in the park by 6:50 pm to show
their appreciation and support for all military personnel during pregame
ceremonies. Those ceremonies will feature recognition of all military personnel
in attendance, a Color Guard, and the National Anthem sung live by Uncalled-4.
Those in attendance will also enjoy patriotic music and a red, white, and blue
decorated park throughout the evening.&nbsp;
Flags lining the park will be provided courtesy of American Legion
Riders Post #173 of Hays, KS. Free admission to the game will be provided
courtesy of the Hays VFW Post 9076, VFW Auxiliary, and Kiwanis Club of Hays.

See you at Larks Park on June 15th!&nbsp; Come join the team for fantastic baseball,
pay tribute to veteran, reserve, and active military personnel and enjoy an
evening of inexpensive fun!&nbsp; For more
information please contact Frank Leo, Hays Larks Manager at 785-628-6703.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717183089670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays Larks are inviting everyone to the 15th annual
Military Appreciation Night in conjunction with their game against the Colorado
Roughriders on Saturday, June 15th at Larks Park at 7 p.m.&nbsp; All active, reserve, and retired military
personnel are specially invited to attend and will be honored on the field
during pregame ceremonies. Military personnel will also be recognized after the
6th inning prior to the singing of “God Bless America”. Military personnel in
attendance should check in at the east side of the grandstand by 6:45 pm
Saturday evening.Fans are encouraged to be in the park by 6:50 pm to show
their appreciation and support for all military personnel during pregame
ceremonies. Those ceremonies will feature recognition of all military personnel
in attendance, a Color Guard, and the National Anthem sung live by Uncalled-4.
Those in attendance will also enjoy patriotic music and a red, white, and blue
decorated park throughout the evening.&nbsp;
Flags lining the park will be provided courtesy of American Legion
Riders Post #173 of Hays, KS. Free admission to the game will be provided
courtesy of the Hays VFW Post 9076, VFW Auxiliary, and Kiwanis Club of Hays.See you at Larks Park on June 15th!&nbsp; Come join the team for fantastic baseball,
pay tribute to veteran, reserve, and active military personnel and enjoy an
evening of inexpensive fun!&nbsp; For more
information please contact Frank Leo, Hays Larks Manager at 785-628-6703.&nbsp;

⚾ Larks set to host Military Appreciation Night June 15

Torch Run for Special Olympics Kansas planned for June 20

Our years of marriage have required serious budget stretching strategies. The first year, we discovered garage sales offered opportunities to buy anything from yard and garden tools, kitchen essentials, décor, and other crazy stuff folks who start out with nothing need. The fact we never knew what we’d find added adventure to those quests. It was like a perpetual Forrest Gump box of chocolates.

For pennies, we multiplied sparse kitchen inventory into cupboards full of vintage bowls, Bakelite choppers, pans, and wire potato mashers just like gramma’s. She still used her stuff, so when I’d find something similar for the right price, I added to my stash. Not only did people sell vintage items, they’d put unused or barely used towels, mitts, curtains, griddles, blenders, and such on their sale. For pennies on the dollar, I bought a sturdy blender and new in the box waffle iron to develop culinary skills. Once I realized I didn’t like cleaning waffle irons, I traded it for something I really needed.

Similar bargains filled our mostly empty family tool box. We found everything from hoes, rakes, and tomato cages to multitudinous screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, saws, and more. Over time, our collection grew so that when we could comfortably share tools and hardly miss them.

Once our family expanded, such bargains furnished and decorated a nursery. We found a barely used cherry wood crib for infant daughters to sleep in. My mom embroidered an heirloom baby quilt, but garage sales added sheets, hooded towels, and adorable sleepers. Those who shop regularly know they’ll eventually find exactly what they want in great condition. That may mean hitting sales for weeks in a row and not bringing anything home, but eureka moments await.

Over time, we went through Mickey Mouse tables and chairs, art supplies, balls, bats, gloves, and lots of cute clothes. If I found an adorable something the girls would wear only a time or two, I’d buy it and later pass it to a friend with smaller kids. Same with toys. If what I brought home entertained the girls only a moment, it soon found a new home.

Once grandkids came along, the search for kid clothes, games, and toys began again. Discovering a boxed, beautiful Barbie brightened one grands’ day. Another eagerly awaits art and craft supply deliveries to refill her stash. Every kid has their choice of baseball mitts. All our grands eagerly anticipate fishing gear finds. They love new bobbers, lures, and nets.

One of the curses of being a lifelong bargain hunter is that space limits treasure you can bring home. We reached capacity long ago, so when new comes in—book, kitchenware, décor, tool, toy—something goes into the donation box in the trunk, delivered 2x monthly. I refuse to unpack a cupboard, closet, or drawer to find what I’m looking for. This rule makes that doable. It also guarantees thrift store employees recognize us.

Some folks don’t have time to garage sale; some don’t enjoy it. If you have time and you don’t mind waiting til you find what you want at a sale, this offers a less expensive means to entertain yourself, especially since you never know what you’ll find.

By KAREN MADORINOur years of marriage have required serious budget stretching strategies. The first year, we discovered garage sales offered opportunities to buy anything from yard and garden tools, kitchen essentials, décor, and other crazy stuff folks who start out with nothing need. The fact we never knew what we’d find added adventure to those quests. It was like a perpetual Forrest Gump box of chocolates.For pennies, we multiplied sparse kitchen inventory into cupboards full of vintage bowls, Bakelite choppers, pans, and wire potato mashers just like gramma’s. She still used her stuff, so when I’d find something similar for the right price, I added to my stash. Not only did people sell vintage items, they’d put unused or barely used towels, mitts, curtains, griddles, blenders, and such on their sale. For pennies on the dollar, I bought a sturdy blender and new in the box waffle iron to develop culinary skills. Once I realized I didn’t like cleaning waffle irons, I traded it for something I really needed.Similar bargains filled our mostly empty family tool box. We found everything from hoes, rakes, and tomato cages to multitudinous screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, saws, and more. Over time, our collection grew so that when we could comfortably share tools and hardly miss them.Once our family expanded, such bargains furnished and decorated a nursery. We found a barely used cherry wood crib for infant daughters to sleep in. My mom embroidered an heirloom baby quilt, but garage sales added sheets, hooded towels, and adorable sleepers. Those who shop regularly know they’ll eventually find exactly what they want in great condition. That may mean hitting sales for weeks in a row and not bringing anything home, but eureka moments await.Over time, we went through Mickey Mouse tables and chairs, art supplies, balls, bats, gloves, and lots of cute clothes. If I found an adorable something the girls would wear only a time or two, I’d buy it and later pass it to a friend with smaller kids. Same with toys. If what I brought home entertained the girls only a moment, it soon found a new home.Once grandkids came along, the search for kid clothes, games, and toys began again. Discovering a boxed, beautiful Barbie brightened one grands’ day. Another eagerly awaits art and craft supply deliveries to refill her stash. Every kid has their choice of baseball mitts. All our grands eagerly anticipate fishing gear finds. They love new bobbers, lures, and nets.One of the curses of being a lifelong bargain hunter is that space limits treasure you can bring home. We reached capacity long ago, so when new comes in—book, kitchenware, décor, tool, toy—something goes into the donation box in the trunk, delivered 2x monthly. I refuse to unpack a cupboard, closet, or drawer to find what I’m looking for. This rule makes that doable. It also guarantees thrift store employees recognize us.Some folks don’t have time to garage sale; some don’t enjoy it. If you have time and you don’t mind waiting til you find what you want at a sale, this offers a less expensive means to entertain yourself, especially since you never know what you’ll find.

MADORIN: Budget fun

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718226918076.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>

The first chance you have to become a finalist for the COORS LIGHT CHILL RIDE UTV GIVEAWAY is this coming Friday at Briney Motorsports in Hays. 

We will have the CHILL RIDE on display from 9 a.m. until 4.p.m., so you should have plenty of time to get registered.

The COORS LIGHT CHILL RIDE UTV GIVEAWAY is courtesy of A &amp; A Coors, Briney Motorsports, Advantage Glass Plus, and Commercial Sign Company all of Hays.

The winner of the COORS LIGHT CHILL RIDE&nbsp;UTV will be announced at the FHSU football game on Sept. 7.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716322467979.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The first chance you have to become a finalist for the COORS LIGHT CHILL RIDE UTV GIVEAWAY is this coming Friday at Briney Motorsports in Hays. We will have the CHILL RIDE on display from 9 a.m. until 4.p.m., so you should have plenty of time to get registered.The COORS LIGHT CHILL RIDE UTV GIVEAWAY is courtesy of A &amp; A Coors, Briney Motorsports, Advantage Glass Plus, and Commercial Sign Company all of Hays.The winner of the COORS LIGHT CHILL RIDE&nbsp;UTV will be announced at the FHSU football game on Sept. 7.

First chance to enter to win Coors Light Chill Ride UTV on Friday

The Hays Police Department responded to 79 incidents June 2-8, 2024, according to the HPD Activity Log.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574697410116.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HPDThe Hays Police Department responded to 79 incidents June 2-8, 2024, according to the HPD Activity Log.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718192893741.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718192955591.png" alt="6-2-24 to 6-8-24 Activity Log-2.png" />
 <figcaption>6-2-24 to 6-8-24 Activity Log-2.png</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718193015122.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays Police Department activity log, June 2-8, 2024

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995961939.png" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718188633550.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718188711565.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays Police Department arrest log, June 2-8, 2024

It’s been an above-average spring for tornadoes and other severe storms in the Midwest and Great Plains. Experts say a big reason is that weather conditions were ripe for tornado-forming storms.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/skyler-rossi">Skyler Rossi</a> Harvest Public Media

The number of tornadoes and severe storms in the U.S. so far this year has been well above average.

There were nearly 6,300 severe storms reported in May, many concentrated in the Midwest and Great Plains,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.spc.noaa.gov/climo/summary/" target="_blank">according to preliminary data</a>&nbsp;from the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center. That includes more than 570 tornadoes, the most recorded in recent years. That number continues to climb as the center updates its data.

It was the second-most active May for severe storms since 2004. The most active remains May 2011, the month a massive tornado tore through Joplin, Missouri.

The storms have resulted in 39 deaths this year, according to the Storm Prediction Center. Tornadoes in Oklahoma have killed eight people and demolished homes and businesses. In Iowa, a large tornado&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tornado-iowa-wind-farm-turbines-feb9913c3d53915ffa420e277af4bb6d" target="_blank">crumbled five massive wind turbines</a>&nbsp;and killed five.

A main reason for the activity was weather conditions that made it more likely for tornadoes to form, said Patrick Marsh, the chief of science and support at the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma.

Throughout the spring, a pocket of cold air called a “trough” put winds from the Southwest across the middle of the country, Marsh said. Winds from the Southeast carried warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico closer to the ground.

The combination created a good environment for tornado-producing storms known as supercell thunderstorms.

“We’ve had ingredients in place for supercell thunderstorms over the Plains for pretty much the entire month of May,” Marsh said. “And when you have that many of these kinds of thunderstorms, inevitably you will have an increase in tornadoes as well.”

Three tornadoes this year ranked EF4, which is the second-highest ranking on the Enhanced Fujita Scale. This spring produced higher-ranking tornadoes than in recent years, Marsh said. But, this system is also based on the amount of damage caused, rather than just the size and strength of a tornado.

“If a tornado producing wind speeds equivalent to an EF5 – so 205 miles per hour or stronger – if it never hits a structure that has an engineer rating to withstand 205 mile per hour winds, we can't assign the rating of an EF5,” Marsh said.

The increased number of tornado reports could also be due in part to more available data.

An advancement in radar technology more than a decade ago allows weather trackers to better detect weak tornadoes by radar. Plus, there are more potential eyewitnesses with cameras, thanks to smartphones, and more structures that can be in the path of a tornado.

These are all factors to consider when comparing current and historical data, said Zack Leasor, the Missouri state climatologist.

“It's really hard to disentangle, is this a greater number of tornadoes themselves? Or are there just more buildings that can be damaged by those tornadoes? Are there more people out that can see those tornadoes, report those tornadoes with their smartphones?” Leasor said. “All of these kinds of characteristics go into those trends as well.”

Quincy Vagell started storm chasing across the Midwest and Great Plains in 2014. He said he often sends reports of what he sees to the National Weather Service.

“Sometimes storm chasers may be the first people on the scene, especially if it's in a very rural area where there's not a lot of people,” he said.

The activity this season allows him to choose which storms to chase. He said he tries to stay closer to Oklahoma, where he’s based.

“I've only seen, actually, two or three tornadoes this year, but I've had an active season,” Vagell said. “I've seen plenty of supercells, great storms and all that. So it's definitely been a busy season for me.”

A more active spring season for tornadoes is difficult to link directly to climate change, according to Marsh. However, warm and moist air in the wintertime could cause more tornadoes in off-peak times, he said.

Warmer weather earlier this year has opened the door to a longer season for severe storms in Missouri, Leasor said. There have been&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-05-30/missouri-is-having-one-of-its-most-active-tornado-seasons-on-record-whats-behind-the-numbers" target="_blank">184 tornado warnings in the state</a>&nbsp;this year so far. This is the fourth highest number of warnings for that timeframe since records began in 1986.

Marsh expects storm activity to be calmer in early June. Beyond that, it’s more uncertain, he said.

This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718137730407.png" alt="Storm chaser Quincy Vagell captured this image during a tornado on May 23, 2024 in Eldorado, Oklahoma. Vagell has been storm chasing since 2014.&nbsp;Provided By Quincy Vagell" />
 <figcaption>Storm chaser Quincy Vagell captured this image during a tornado on May 23, 2024 in Eldorado, Oklahoma. Vagell has been storm chasing since 2014.&nbsp;Provided By Quincy Vagell</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>It’s been an above-average spring for tornadoes and other severe storms in the Midwest and Great Plains. Experts say a big reason is that weather conditions were ripe for tornado-forming storms.</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/skyler-rossi">Skyler Rossi</a> Harvest Public Media The number of tornadoes and severe storms in the U.S. so far this year has been well above average.There were nearly 6,300 severe storms reported in May, many concentrated in the Midwest and Great Plains,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.spc.noaa.gov/climo/summary/" target="_blank">according to preliminary data</a>&nbsp;from the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center. That includes more than 570 tornadoes, the most recorded in recent years. That number continues to climb as the center updates its data.It was the second-most active May for severe storms since 2004. The most active remains May 2011, the month a massive tornado tore through Joplin, Missouri.The storms have resulted in 39 deaths this year, according to the Storm Prediction Center. Tornadoes in Oklahoma have killed eight people and demolished homes and businesses. In Iowa, a large tornado&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tornado-iowa-wind-farm-turbines-feb9913c3d53915ffa420e277af4bb6d" target="_blank">crumbled five massive wind turbines</a>&nbsp;and killed five.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718137833041.png" alt="Chart:&nbsp;Skyler Rossi/ Harvest Public MediaSource:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.spc.noaa.gov/climo/summary/">National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center on June 6, 2024</a>Created with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/e5mQv" target="_blank">Datawrapper</a>" />
 <figcaption>Chart:&nbsp;Skyler Rossi/ Harvest Public MediaSource:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.spc.noaa.gov/climo/summary/">National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center on June 6, 2024</a>Created with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/e5mQv" target="_blank">Datawrapper</a></figcaption>
 </figure>A main reason for the activity was weather conditions that made it more likely for tornadoes to form, said Patrick Marsh, the chief of science and support at the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma.Throughout the spring, a pocket of cold air called a “trough” put winds from the Southwest across the middle of the country, Marsh said. Winds from the Southeast carried warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico closer to the ground.The combination created a good environment for tornado-producing storms known as supercell thunderstorms.“We’ve had ingredients in place for supercell thunderstorms over the Plains for pretty much the entire month of May,” Marsh said. “And when you have that many of these kinds of thunderstorms, inevitably you will have an increase in tornadoes as well.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718137892768.png" alt="Damage in Greenfield, Iowa, is shown on May 22, 2024 after a large tornado touched down the day before. Last month was one of the most active Mays for tornadoes and other severe storms in the past 20 years." />
 <figcaption>Damage in Greenfield, Iowa, is shown on May 22, 2024 after a large tornado touched down the day before. Last month was one of the most active Mays for tornadoes and other severe storms in the past 20 years.</figcaption>
 </figure>Three tornadoes this year ranked EF4, which is the second-highest ranking on the Enhanced Fujita Scale. This spring produced higher-ranking tornadoes than in recent years, Marsh said. But, this system is also based on the amount of damage caused, rather than just the size and strength of a tornado.“If a tornado producing wind speeds equivalent to an EF5 – so 205 miles per hour or stronger – if it never hits a structure that has an engineer rating to withstand 205 mile per hour winds, we can't assign the rating of an EF5,” Marsh said.The increased number of tornado reports could also be due in part to more available data.An advancement in radar technology more than a decade ago allows weather trackers to better detect weak tornadoes by radar. Plus, there are more potential eyewitnesses with cameras, thanks to smartphones, and more structures that can be in the path of a tornado.These are all factors to consider when comparing current and historical data, said Zack Leasor, the Missouri state climatologist.“It's really hard to disentangle, is this a greater number of tornadoes themselves? Or are there just more buildings that can be damaged by those tornadoes? Are there more people out that can see those tornadoes, report those tornadoes with their smartphones?” Leasor said. “All of these kinds of characteristics go into those trends as well.”Quincy Vagell started storm chasing across the Midwest and Great Plains in 2014. He said he often sends reports of what he sees to the National Weather Service.“Sometimes storm chasers may be the first people on the scene, especially if it's in a very rural area where there's not a lot of people,” he said.The activity this season allows him to choose which storms to chase. He said he tries to stay closer to Oklahoma, where he’s based.“I've only seen, actually, two or three tornadoes this year, but I've had an active season,” Vagell said. “I've seen plenty of supercells, great storms and all that. So it's definitely been a busy season for me.”A more active spring season for tornadoes is difficult to link directly to climate change, according to Marsh. However, warm and moist air in the wintertime could cause more tornadoes in off-peak times, he said.Warmer weather earlier this year has opened the door to a longer season for severe storms in Missouri, Leasor said. There have been&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-05-30/missouri-is-having-one-of-its-most-active-tornado-seasons-on-record-whats-behind-the-numbers" target="_blank">184 tornado warnings in the state</a>&nbsp;this year so far. This is the fourth highest number of warnings for that timeframe since records began in 1986.Marsh expects storm activity to be calmer in early June. Beyond that, it’s more uncertain, he said.This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

More tornadoes reported this year than usual; a look behind numbers

BROOKINGS, S.D. — South Dakota State University announces Katelyn Engel of Hays, Kansas, (67601) has been named to the dean's list for the spring 2024 semester.

Engel is a student in SDSU's College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

More than 3,300 students were recognized for their outstanding academic performance over the sping 2024 semester at South Dakota State by being named to the dean's list.

To earn dean's list distinctions in SDSU's colleges, students must have completed a minimum of 12 credits and must have earned at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with F, I, U, RI or RU grades are not eligible regardless of system term GPA attained. Note that this report includes courses that were taken at other South Dakota institutions this term. A minimum of 12 credits within the 100-699 course range must be taken. A student who passes pregeneral education courses may still qualify, if the student has 12 other credits that do fall within the 100-699 range.

Overall, 3,378 students from 40 states and 37 foreign nations are on the list. More than 1,400 students received a 4.0 GPA, and those are indicated with an asterisk.

About South Dakota State University

Founded in 1881, South Dakota State University is the state's Morrill Act land-grant institution as well as its largest, most comprehensive school of higher education. SDSU confers degrees from seven different colleges representing 230 majors, minors and specializations. The institution also offers 39 master's degree programs, 16 Ph.D. and two professional programs.

The work of the university is carried out on a residential campus in Brookings, at sites in Sioux Falls, Pierre and Rapid City, and through Extension offices and Agricultural Experiment Station research sites across the state. SDSU's research expenditures for the 2023 fiscal year were more than $74 million.

SubmittedBROOKINGS, S.D. — South Dakota State University announces Katelyn Engel of Hays, Kansas, (67601) has been named to the dean's list for the spring 2024 semester.Engel is a student in SDSU's College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.More than 3,300 students were recognized for their outstanding academic performance over the sping 2024 semester at South Dakota State by being named to the dean's list.To earn dean's list distinctions in SDSU's colleges, students must have completed a minimum of 12 credits and must have earned at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with F, I, U, RI or RU grades are not eligible regardless of system term GPA attained. Note that this report includes courses that were taken at other South Dakota institutions this term. A minimum of 12 credits within the 100-699 course range must be taken. A student who passes pregeneral education courses may still qualify, if the student has 12 other credits that do fall within the 100-699 range.Overall, 3,378 students from 40 states and 37 foreign nations are on the list. More than 1,400 students received a 4.0 GPA, and those are indicated with an asterisk.About South Dakota State UniversityFounded in 1881, South Dakota State University is the state's Morrill Act land-grant institution as well as its largest, most comprehensive school of higher education. SDSU confers degrees from seven different colleges representing 230 majors, minors and specializations. The institution also offers 39 master's degree programs, 16 Ph.D. and two professional programs.The work of the university is carried out on a residential campus in Brookings, at sites in Sioux Falls, Pierre and Rapid City, and through Extension offices and Agricultural Experiment Station research sites across the state. SDSU's research expenditures for the 2023 fiscal year were more than $74 million.

Katelyn Engel named to South Dakota State University's spring 2024 dean's list

BUNKER HILL — Smoky Hills PBS (SHPBS) is thrilled to announce the continued support and generosity of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Their invaluable contributions enable us to provide a wide range of educational initiatives that benefit viewers of all ages.&nbsp;

With the help of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation and our dedicated local supporters, Smoky Hills PBS is able to offer:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Free Books&nbsp;– Ensuring that children enrolled in Early Head Start and Head Start programs receive free books to help foster a love of learning.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Educational Programming&nbsp;–&nbsp;broadcasting over 60 commercial-free hours of PBS KIDS programming each week on Smoky Hills PBS, and at least 168 weekly hours on our PBS KIDS channel.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Local Productions&nbsp;– Creating and broadcasting local productions that highlight the issues and stories that matter most to our viewers.

“We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation,” said Betsy Schwien, general manager for SHPBS.&nbsp; “Their support makes it possible for us to provide essential resources and programming that enrich the lives of our viewers and foster a love of learning for our youngest viewers.”

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation is committed to providing opportunities for the people of northwest Kansas to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.&nbsp; The foundation advances its mission by investing in the areas of education, health care, economic development, community social services and security, conservation and environment, arts and culture and community beautification.&nbsp;

SHPBSBUNKER HILL — Smoky Hills PBS (SHPBS) is thrilled to announce the continued support and generosity of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Their invaluable contributions enable us to provide a wide range of educational initiatives that benefit viewers of all ages.&nbsp;With the help of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation and our dedicated local supporters, Smoky Hills PBS is able to offer:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Free Books&nbsp;– Ensuring that children enrolled in Early Head Start and Head Start programs receive free books to help foster a love of learning.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Educational Programming&nbsp;–&nbsp;broadcasting over 60 commercial-free hours of PBS KIDS programming each week on Smoky Hills PBS, and at least 168 weekly hours on our PBS KIDS channel.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Local Productions&nbsp;– Creating and broadcasting local productions that highlight the issues and stories that matter most to our viewers.“We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation,” said Betsy Schwien, general manager for SHPBS.&nbsp; “Their support makes it possible for us to provide essential resources and programming that enrich the lives of our viewers and foster a love of learning for our youngest viewers.”The Dane G. Hansen Foundation is committed to providing opportunities for the people of northwest Kansas to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.&nbsp; The foundation advances its mission by investing in the areas of education, health care, economic development, community social services and security, conservation and environment, arts and culture and community beautification.&nbsp;

Dane G. Hansen supports Smoky Hills PBS initiatives

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

You want the best for your child and are trying to keep them safe and healthy while they grow. Still, it’s hard being a parent and it’s even harder when your family has experienced trauma. There are simple ways to connect with your child and help them to feel loved.

You might be a child’s parent or guardian, their regular caregiver, or someone who frequently sees and cares for them. No matter who you are to the child, you can be someone they trust and rely on. These are 8 everyday gestures that you can do with children to build relationships and trust. Children need to have strong relationships and attachment when they are young to set them up for success as an adult.

1. Play with your child and enter their world-Find activities that you can do together, like reading stories, playing video games, playing pretend, or practicing sports.

2. Listen to your child-Look them in the eye to help them feel seen, heard, and valued. Show them you are listening by bending down to their level, make eye contact and put down your phone.

3. Be your child’s cheerleader. Tell your child what you love about them. Inspire your child to discover activities that interest them, like sports, art, music, or theater.

4. Comfort your child when they feel scared or overwhelmed, and practice techniques such as taking deep breaths and counting to ten. Help you child find other people and places that help them feel safe and supported.

5. Talk to your child about their feelings. Help them to be able to label their emotions by using a feelings chart and model healthy ways to express feelings. Ask your child about events from their day and how they made them feel.

6. Create calm and predictable environments. Help your child know what to expect whenever possible by creating habits and routines. Ask yourself, what rituals would work for my family each day to make it more predictable? Children feel safe and have less anxiety when their worlds are predictable and they have an idea of what to expect will happen each day.

7. Set clear rules and expectations about your child’s behavior and use positive reinforcement whenever possible. Clear rules might include “no name-calling” and how often they can watch TV. Reward your child’s efforts to follow family rules.

8. Create a network of support for you and your child, and be a support for other parents. At some point, we all need to ask for help. Whether you’re helping someone else or needing it yourself, it’s good to know what health, counseling, and recreation resources are part of your community.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension DistrictYou want the best for your child and are trying to keep them safe and healthy while they grow. Still, it’s hard being a parent and it’s even harder when your family has experienced trauma. There are simple ways to connect with your child and help them to feel loved.You might be a child’s parent or guardian, their regular caregiver, or someone who frequently sees and cares for them. No matter who you are to the child, you can be someone they trust and rely on. These are 8 everyday gestures that you can do with children to build relationships and trust. Children need to have strong relationships and attachment when they are young to set them up for success as an adult.8 Every Day Gestures1. Play with your child and enter their world-Find activities that you can do together, like reading stories, playing video games, playing pretend, or practicing sports.2. Listen to your child-Look them in the eye to help them feel seen, heard, and valued. Show them you are listening by bending down to their level, make eye contact and put down your phone.3. Be your child’s cheerleader. Tell your child what you love about them. Inspire your child to discover activities that interest them, like sports, art, music, or theater.4. Comfort your child when they feel scared or overwhelmed, and practice techniques such as taking deep breaths and counting to ten. Help you child find other people and places that help them feel safe and supported.5. Talk to your child about their feelings. Help them to be able to label their emotions by using a feelings chart and model healthy ways to express feelings. Ask your child about events from their day and how they made them feel.6. Create calm and predictable environments. Help your child know what to expect whenever possible by creating habits and routines. Ask yourself, what rituals would work for my family each day to make it more predictable? Children feel safe and have less anxiety when their worlds are predictable and they have an idea of what to expect will happen each day.7. Set clear rules and expectations about your child’s behavior and use positive reinforcement whenever possible. Clear rules might include “no name-calling” and how often they can watch TV. Reward your child’s efforts to follow family rules.8. Create a network of support for you and your child, and be a support for other parents. At some point, we all need to ask for help. Whether you’re helping someone else or needing it yourself, it’s good to know what health, counseling, and recreation resources are part of your community.Source: Futures without ViolenceMonique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Everyday gestures

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718129754560.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>

Fort Hays State University police witnessed a group physical fight near an alleyway north of West Seventh Street and east of Park Street, according to Fort Hays State University Police.

At 1:53 a.m. on June 1, the FHSU officer at the scene activated the patrol car's lights and siren, parked in the alley and informed Hays police of the developing situation, according to FHSU Police Chief Terry Pierce.

As the officer approached the group involved in the fight, several individuals fled the scene on foot while one person was ordered to remain with the FHSU police officer, Pierce said.

After Hays Police officers arrived to provide additional assistance, they were unable to locate the unidentified suspects. No one sought medical attention at the scene and no arrests have been made, Pierce said.

The incident remains under investigation, he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718138244713.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostFort Hays State University police witnessed a group physical fight near an alleyway north of West Seventh Street and east of Park Street, according to Fort Hays State University Police.At 1:53 a.m. on June 1, the FHSU officer at the scene activated the patrol car's lights and siren, parked in the alley and informed Hays police of the developing situation, according to FHSU Police Chief Terry Pierce.As the officer approached the group involved in the fight, several individuals fled the scene on foot while one person was ordered to remain with the FHSU police officer, Pierce said.After Hays Police officers arrived to provide additional assistance, they were unable to locate the unidentified suspects. No one sought medical attention at the scene and no arrests have been made, Pierce said.The incident remains under investigation, he said.

FHSU officer witnesses group fight near campus

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Fort Hays State University communications officer said he thought the stabbing of four Iowa college instructors in China Monday was an isolated incident.

Through international partnerships, FHSU has&nbsp;13 faculty teaching at Shenyang Normal University in the Liaoning Province and 33 at Sias University in the Henan Province.

Four instructors from Iowa's Cornell College teaching at Beihua University in northeastern China were attacked in a public park, reportedly with a knife, officials at the U.S. school and the State Department said.

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Tuesday that the injured were rushed to a hospital for treatment, and none was in critical condition, according to the Associated Press.

Police believe Monday's attack in Jilin city's Beishan Park was an isolated incident, based on a preliminary assessment, and the investigation is ongoing, ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a daily briefing.

"At this point, the incident in the Jilin Province in China appears to be an isolated incident. We hope that the four Cornell College faculty members and the brave Chinese tourist who tried to intervene recover quickly and return home safe," Scott Cason, FHSU chief communications officer, said in an email Tuesday.

"The safety of our employees working here in Hays and those working and teaching abroad is something that we take very seriously and constantly monitor," Cason said.

The State Department said in a statement it was aware of reports of a stabbing and was monitoring the situation, according to the Associated Press.&nbsp;

Cason said FHSU has not received any warnings from the State Department related to this issue, and the university has shared what it knows about the incident with its faculty teaching in China.

Citing arbitrary detentions as well as exit bans that could prevent Americans from leaving the country, the State Department has issued a Level 3 travel advisory — the second-highest warning level — for mainland China. It urges Americans to “reconsider travel” to China, according to the Associated Press.

Some American universities have suspended their China programs due to the travel advisory, the AP reported.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/efe56f5e-6acc-4b45-8a32-6fbee96da498">SEE RELATED STORY: Suspect in custody in the stabbing of 4 US college instructors in China</a>

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostFort Hays State University communications officer said he thought the stabbing of four Iowa college instructors in China Monday was an isolated incident.Through international partnerships, FHSU has&nbsp;13 faculty teaching at Shenyang Normal University in the Liaoning Province and 33 at Sias University in the Henan Province.Four instructors from Iowa's Cornell College teaching at Beihua University in northeastern China were attacked in a public park, reportedly with a knife, officials at the U.S. school and the State Department said.A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Tuesday that the injured were rushed to a hospital for treatment, and none was in critical condition, according to the Associated Press.Police believe Monday's attack in Jilin city's Beishan Park was an isolated incident, based on a preliminary assessment, and the investigation is ongoing, ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a daily briefing."At this point, the incident in the Jilin Province in China appears to be an isolated incident. We hope that the four Cornell College faculty members and the brave Chinese tourist who tried to intervene recover quickly and return home safe," Scott Cason, FHSU chief communications officer, said in an email Tuesday."The safety of our employees working here in Hays and those working and teaching abroad is something that we take very seriously and constantly monitor," Cason said.The State Department said in a statement it was aware of reports of a stabbing and was monitoring the situation, according to the Associated Press.&nbsp;Cason said FHSU has not received any warnings from the State Department related to this issue, and the university has shared what it knows about the incident with its faculty teaching in China.Citing arbitrary detentions as well as exit bans that could prevent Americans from leaving the country, the State Department has issued a Level 3 travel advisory — the second-highest warning level — for mainland China. It urges Americans to “reconsider travel” to China, according to the Associated Press.Some American universities have suspended their China programs due to the travel advisory, the AP reported.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/efe56f5e-6acc-4b45-8a32-6fbee96da498">SEE RELATED STORY: Suspect in custody in the stabbing of 4 US college instructors in China</a>The Associated Press contributed to this story.

FHSU responds to U.S. teacher stabbings in China

On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser discusses Stripe rust affecting the area winter wheat crop with <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Cottonwood Extension District</a> with agent Stacy Campbell.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Stripe rust affecting area wheat crop" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=k8pmk-163ae47-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser discusses Stripe rust affecting the area winter wheat crop with <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Cottonwood Extension District</a> with agent Stacy Campbell.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Stripe rust affecting area wheat crop

BEIJING (AP) — Four instructors from Iowa's Cornell College teaching at Beihua University in northeastern China were attacked in a public park, reportedly with a knife, officials at the U.S. school and the State Department said.

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Tuesday that the injured were rushed to a hospital for treatment, and that none was in critical condition. Police believe Monday's attack in Jilin city's Beishan Park was an isolated incident, based on a preliminary assessment, and the investigation is ongoing, ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a daily briefing.

Cornell College President Jonathan Brand said in a statement that the instructors were attacked while at the park with a faculty member from Beihua, which is in an outlying part of Jilin, an industrial city about 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) northeast of Beijing. Monday was a public holiday in China.

The State Department said in a statement it was aware of reports of a stabbing and was monitoring the situation. The attack happened as both Beijing and Washington are seeking to expand people-to-people exchanges to help bolster relations amid tensions over trade and such international issues as Taiwan, the South China Sea and the war in Ukraine.

An Iowa state lawmaker posted a statement on Instagram saying his brother, David Zabner, had been wounded during a stabbing attack in Jilin. Rep. Adam Zabner described his brother as a doctoral student at Tufts University who was in China under the Cornell-Beihua relationship.

“I spoke to David a few minutes ago, he is recovering from his injuries and doing well,” Adam Zabner wrote, adding that his brother was grateful for the care he received at a hospital.

News of the incident was suppressed in China, where the government maintains control on information about anything considered sensitive. News media outlets had not reported it. Some social media accounts posted foreign media reports about the attack, but a hashtag about it was blocked on a popular portal and photos and video of the incident were quickly taken down.

Cornell spokesperson Jen Visser said in an email that the college was still gathering information about what happened.

Visser said the private college in Mount Vernon, Iowa, partners with Beihua University. A&nbsp;<a href="https://news.cornellcollege.edu/2018/11/cornell-begins-partnership-university-china/">college news release</a>&nbsp;from 2018, when the program started, says Beihua provides funding for Cornell professors to travel to China to teach a portion of courses in computer science, mathematics and physics over a two-week period.

According to a 2020 post on Beihua's website, the Chinese university uses American teaching methods and resources to give engineering students an international perspective and English-language ability.

About one-third of the core courses in the program use U.S. textbooks and are taught by American professors, according to the post. Students can apply to study for two years of their four-year education at Cornell College and receive degrees from both institutions.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has unveiled a plan to invite 50,000 young Americans to China in the next five years, though Chinese diplomats say a travel advisory by the U.S. State Department has discouraged Americans from visiting China.

Citing arbitrary detentions as well as exit bans that could prevent Americans from leaving the country, the State Department has issued a Level 3 travel advisory — the second-highest warning level — for mainland China. It urges Americans to “reconsider travel” to China.

Some American universities have suspended their China programs due to the travel advisory.

Lin, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said China has taken effective measures to protect the safety of foreigners. “We believe that the isolated incident will not disrupt normal cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596730589904.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BEIJING (AP) — Four instructors from Iowa's Cornell College teaching at Beihua University in northeastern China were attacked in a public park, reportedly with a knife, officials at the U.S. school and the State Department said.A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Tuesday that the injured were rushed to a hospital for treatment, and that none was in critical condition. Police believe Monday's attack in Jilin city's Beishan Park was an isolated incident, based on a preliminary assessment, and the investigation is ongoing, ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a daily briefing.Cornell College President Jonathan Brand said in a statement that the instructors were attacked while at the park with a faculty member from Beihua, which is in an outlying part of Jilin, an industrial city about 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) northeast of Beijing. Monday was a public holiday in China.The State Department said in a statement it was aware of reports of a stabbing and was monitoring the situation. The attack happened as both Beijing and Washington are seeking to expand people-to-people exchanges to help bolster relations amid tensions over trade and such international issues as Taiwan, the South China Sea and the war in Ukraine.An Iowa state lawmaker posted a statement on Instagram saying his brother, David Zabner, had been wounded during a stabbing attack in Jilin. Rep. Adam Zabner described his brother as a doctoral student at Tufts University who was in China under the Cornell-Beihua relationship.“I spoke to David a few minutes ago, he is recovering from his injuries and doing well,” Adam Zabner wrote, adding that his brother was grateful for the care he received at a hospital.News of the incident was suppressed in China, where the government maintains control on information about anything considered sensitive. News media outlets had not reported it. Some social media accounts posted foreign media reports about the attack, but a hashtag about it was blocked on a popular portal and photos and video of the incident were quickly taken down.Cornell spokesperson Jen Visser said in an email that the college was still gathering information about what happened.Visser said the private college in Mount Vernon, Iowa, partners with Beihua University. A&nbsp;<a href="https://news.cornellcollege.edu/2018/11/cornell-begins-partnership-university-china/">college news release</a>&nbsp;from 2018, when the program started, says Beihua provides funding for Cornell professors to travel to China to teach a portion of courses in computer science, mathematics and physics over a two-week period.According to a 2020 post on Beihua's website, the Chinese university uses American teaching methods and resources to give engineering students an international perspective and English-language ability.About one-third of the core courses in the program use U.S. textbooks and are taught by American professors, according to the post. Students can apply to study for two years of their four-year education at Cornell College and receive degrees from both institutions.Chinese President Xi Jinping has unveiled a plan to invite 50,000 young Americans to China in the next five years, though Chinese diplomats say a travel advisory by the U.S. State Department has discouraged Americans from visiting China.Citing arbitrary detentions as well as exit bans that could prevent Americans from leaving the country, the State Department has issued a Level 3 travel advisory — the second-highest warning level — for mainland China. It urges Americans to “reconsider travel” to China.Some American universities have suspended their China programs due to the travel advisory.Lin, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said China has taken effective measures to protect the safety of foreigners. “We believe that the isolated incident will not disrupt normal cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries,” he said.

Suspect in custody in the stabbing of 4 US college instructors in China

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission has elected to change the way outside agencies submit funding requests to the county, but before changes take place next year, on Tuesday, they will hear 2025 budget requests.

County Administrator Darin Myers said the requests for funding from outside agencies went up 24% from 2021 to 2024 and were expected to increase another 10% for 2025 despite the commission’s request that the agencies keep the requests the same as the year before.

The commission elected to split the outside agencies into
two groups: agencies they are required to fund and other, mostly nonprofit
agencies that have received county funding in the past.

The first group is Grow Hays, DSNWK, High Plains Mental
Health, Ellis County Historical Society, Conservation District and the Humane Society of the High Plains. 

Myers said those agencies are linked to the county in
different ways.

Some provide services the county would be required
to provide if they didn’t exist. Others have a funding formula that determines cost
shares with other counties or receive matching funds.

Under the funding process starting for the 2026 budget, those agencies
would still come before the commission and present their funding requests. 

The second group, comprised of about 20 agencies, would send
their applications for funding to the CARE Council. The CARE Council is a group
of 12 members who review funding requests and submit them to Hays' Social
Services budget and the city's and county's alcohol tax budgets. The council also
makes recommendations for United Way funding. 

Earlier this month, the commission allocated 3/10th
of a mill to fund the second group. Myers said that equals $153,742. The budget
requests for the second group this year total $168,912.

The commission will consider those requests this year with
the process transferring to the CARE Council for the 2026 budget requests. 

“Those agencies would then go to the CARE Council in the
months of October, November, December and submit an online application to the
Care Council,” Myers said. “Once we get our valuation, and the budget process
is done at the end of the year, the new mill levy would be set for 2024, for
the 2025 budget .”

Myers said the CARE Council would then go meet with the
agencies in early 2025 to discuss their applications and funding requests. 

"They would actually know several months earlier in the
year what their allocations would be based on the CARE Council's suggestion off the number that the commission would set," Myers said.

County Commissioner Nathan Leiker said he likes the idea of
the CARE Council talking with the groups.

"I like the thought that the CARE Council will go do some
interviewing and pay a little more attention to some of these agencies, rather
than a 5-, 10-, 15-minute talk in front of us where somebody's nervous," Leiker
said. "The council may be able to get the whole picture, a better picture than what
we can attain and make better decisions."

United Way Executive Director Erica Berges, the wife of Commissioner Michael Berges, will help the CARE Council through the process and will attend Tuesday’s meeting to discuss it with the county commission.

The funding request for the other agencies the
commission will consider is $1.329 million. 

All outside agencies will present their funding requests for
the 2025 budget Tuesday to the county commission. 

The commission meeting is set for 8:30 a.m. Tuesday at the
Ellis County Administrative Office at 718 Main St. in Hays. 

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission has elected to change the way outside agencies submit funding requests to the county, but before changes take place next year, on Tuesday, they will hear 2025 budget requests.County Administrator Darin Myers said the requests for funding from outside agencies went up 24% from 2021 to 2024 and were expected to increase another 10% for 2025 despite the commission’s request that the agencies keep the requests the same as the year before.The commission elected to split the outside agencies into
two groups: agencies they are required to fund and other, mostly nonprofit
agencies that have received county funding in the past.The first group is Grow Hays, DSNWK, High Plains Mental
Health, Ellis County Historical Society, Conservation District and the Humane Society of the High Plains. Myers said those agencies are linked to the county in
different ways.Some provide services the county would be required
to provide if they didn’t exist. Others have a funding formula that determines cost
shares with other counties or receive matching funds.Under the funding process starting for the 2026 budget, those agencies
would still come before the commission and present their funding requests. The second group, comprised of about 20 agencies, would send
their applications for funding to the CARE Council. The CARE Council is a group
of 12 members who review funding requests and submit them to Hays' Social
Services budget and the city's and county's alcohol tax budgets. The council also
makes recommendations for United Way funding. Earlier this month, the commission allocated 3/10th
of a mill to fund the second group. Myers said that equals $153,742. The budget
requests for the second group this year total $168,912.The commission will consider those requests this year with
the process transferring to the CARE Council for the 2026 budget requests. “Those agencies would then go to the CARE Council in the
months of October, November, December and submit an online application to the
Care Council,” Myers said. “Once we get our valuation, and the budget process
is done at the end of the year, the new mill levy would be set for 2024, for
the 2025 budget .”Myers said the CARE Council would then go meet with the
agencies in early 2025 to discuss their applications and funding requests. "They would actually know several months earlier in the
year what their allocations would be based on the CARE Council's suggestion off the number that the commission would set," Myers said.County Commissioner Nathan Leiker said he likes the idea of
the CARE Council talking with the groups."I like the thought that the CARE Council will go do some
interviewing and pay a little more attention to some of these agencies, rather
than a 5-, 10-, 15-minute talk in front of us where somebody's nervous," Leiker
said. "The council may be able to get the whole picture, a better picture than what
we can attain and make better decisions."United Way Executive Director Erica Berges, the wife of Commissioner Michael Berges, will help the CARE Council through the process and will attend Tuesday’s meeting to discuss it with the county commission.The funding request for the other agencies the
commission will consider is $1.329 million. All outside agencies will present their funding requests for
the 2025 budget Tuesday to the county commission. The commission meeting is set for 8:30 a.m. Tuesday at the
Ellis County Administrative Office at 718 Main St. in Hays.

Ellis County Commission will hear outside agency funding requests before changes next year

ADELPHI, MD —&nbsp; John Grimes of Victoria&nbsp;was named to the Dean's List for the spring 2024 term at University of Maryland Global Campus. To be eligible for the honor, a student must complete at least six credits during the term, earned a grade point average of at least 3.5 for the term, and maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.5 at UMGC.

University of Maryland Global Campus was founded more than 75 years ago specifically to serve the higher education needs of working adults and military servicemembers. Today, UMGC is the largest provider of postsecondary education in Maryland and continues its global tradition with online and hybrid courses, more than 175 classroom and service locations worldwide, and more than 135 degrees and certificates backed by the reputation of a state university and the University System of Maryland. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/u001.2MAbPpABZpoNwpazzwdE_sPJkLZaxTMnuWD0uQg6PdI/470/wptps12lQHSn9vSVh_k6Bw/h0/h001.Ywp9nZfWzYhHSpNYb1XTA7E_QvVsjTvbm4uPKYtcQ1Q">umgc.edu</a>.

SubmittedADELPHI, MD —&nbsp; John Grimes of Victoria&nbsp;was named to the Dean's List for the spring 2024 term at University of Maryland Global Campus. To be eligible for the honor, a student must complete at least six credits during the term, earned a grade point average of at least 3.5 for the term, and maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.5 at UMGC.University of Maryland Global Campus was founded more than 75 years ago specifically to serve the higher education needs of working adults and military servicemembers. Today, UMGC is the largest provider of postsecondary education in Maryland and continues its global tradition with online and hybrid courses, more than 175 classroom and service locations worldwide, and more than 135 degrees and certificates backed by the reputation of a state university and the University System of Maryland. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://email.readme.readmedia.com/ss/c/u001.2MAbPpABZpoNwpazzwdE_sPJkLZaxTMnuWD0uQg6PdI/470/wptps12lQHSn9vSVh_k6Bw/h0/h001.Ywp9nZfWzYhHSpNYb1XTA7E_QvVsjTvbm4uPKYtcQ1Q">umgc.edu</a>.

John Grimes named to Dean's List at University of Maryland Global Campus

By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

Farmer’s market season has arrived, and if you’re anything like me, strolling past vendors with an array of fresh produce and homemade goods is a refreshing way to shop. Fresh fruits and vegetables, local honey, and canned goods are just a few products that draw me to the market, but there are multiple reasons why shopping at the farmer’s market is a good choice for the entire community.

· Fresh produce. Locally grown fruits and vegetables are often picked later, full of color, and packed with nutrients. Compared to produce picked thousands of miles away, local foods are harvested at peak ripeness. This can contribute to nutrient-dense produce that is full of flavor! If you or a loved one is picky when it comes to vegetables, experimenting with farm fresh produce is a great way to reintroduce foods that may taste better than superstore options.

· Support the local economy. When you shop at the farmer’s market, your money stays in the community. You support small businesses and the vendors who work to provide such valuable goods.

· Safer food. Produce is typically sustainably grown, and consumers can learn about farming methods. If you are concerned about the use of pesticides and herbicides, the opportunity to ask questions may give you peace of mind. Plus, food from the farmer’s market can be a safer option while mass disease outbreaks are more likely to occur in industrial settings.

· Cultivate healthy behaviors. Taking children to the market can spark interest in healthy eating behaviors and teach them how food is grown. Exposure to the farmer’s market can inspire children (and adults) to make new foods, create a handmade craft, or plant a garden.

Now that you’re ambitious to shop local, make sure to stop by the Great Bend Summer Street Stroll Market at Jack Kilby Square on Thursdays from 4-7 pm. Fresh produce, honey, art, and handmade crafts are the focus of this market, and local vendors are available from May to October. Or, if you’re in the Hays area, stop by 110 E 10th St. on Saturday mornings from 7:30- 11 am. Customers can shop for weekly groceries, find unique gifts made by local artisans, and enjoy musical talents.

The Senior Nutrition Farmer’s Market Program is available in both locations. Those 60 and older can receive vouchers to purchase produce from participating vendors. Contact the Barton County Health Department or the Cottonwood Extension office in Hays to see if you qualify.

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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictFarmer’s market season has arrived, and if you’re anything like me, strolling past vendors with an array of fresh produce and homemade goods is a refreshing way to shop. Fresh fruits and vegetables, local honey, and canned goods are just a few products that draw me to the market, but there are multiple reasons why shopping at the farmer’s market is a good choice for the entire community.· Fresh produce. Locally grown fruits and vegetables are often picked later, full of color, and packed with nutrients. Compared to produce picked thousands of miles away, local foods are harvested at peak ripeness. This can contribute to nutrient-dense produce that is full of flavor! If you or a loved one is picky when it comes to vegetables, experimenting with farm fresh produce is a great way to reintroduce foods that may taste better than superstore options.· Support the local economy. When you shop at the farmer’s market, your money stays in the community. You support small businesses and the vendors who work to provide such valuable goods.· Safer food. Produce is typically sustainably grown, and consumers can learn about farming methods. If you are concerned about the use of pesticides and herbicides, the opportunity to ask questions may give you peace of mind. Plus, food from the farmer’s market can be a safer option while mass disease outbreaks are more likely to occur in industrial settings.· Cultivate healthy behaviors. Taking children to the market can spark interest in healthy eating behaviors and teach them how food is grown. Exposure to the farmer’s market can inspire children (and adults) to make new foods, create a handmade craft, or plant a garden.Now that you’re ambitious to shop local, make sure to stop by the Great Bend Summer Street Stroll Market at Jack Kilby Square on Thursdays from 4-7 pm. Fresh produce, honey, art, and handmade crafts are the focus of this market, and local vendors are available from May to October. Or, if you’re in the Hays area, stop by 110 E 10th St. on Saturday mornings from 7:30- 11 am. Customers can shop for weekly groceries, find unique gifts made by local artisans, and enjoy musical talents.The Senior Nutrition Farmer’s Market Program is available in both locations. Those 60 and older can receive vouchers to purchase produce from participating vendors. Contact the Barton County Health Department or the Cottonwood Extension office in Hays to see if you qualify.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.