By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A group of seniors at Thomas More Prep-Marian have received a grant to upgrade the basketball court in Seven Hills Park, 33rd and Hillcrest, near the ARC Park.

Jessica Herrman, Maggie Baalmann and Julie Meitner secured a $7,000 grant from the Heartland Community Foundation to improve the court.

New cement will be laid and an additional smaller court with lower goals will be installed.&nbsp;Meitner said this second court can be used by smaller children or individuals in wheelchairs.

The students recruited Kris Munsch's cement class from the Applied Sciences Department at Fort Hays State Unversity to provide the labor on the project for free.

Meitner's mother, Sarah Meitner, has spearheaded the construction of the ARC playground and splash pad at the same location. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/97a8f77f-5174-44cd-87a7-1a6a253ea2f6">The playground opened </a>on Sept. 13, and the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b37312c4-0e9c-41a9-a655-27d867717544">splash pad opened Thursday</a>.

Julia said she was inspired to work on the project after seeing so many children at the park and watching the ARC playground and splash pad come together.

"We just wanted to fix it up and match the rest of the park and give those older kids something to look forward to, as well," she said.

Maggie Baalmann, who is also working on the basketball court project, said the girls wanted to bring some color to the courts. They plan on a collage for the backs of the new basketball goals and hope also to purchase benches for the area.

The basketball court project is one of many Capstone service projects. Each of TMP's 41 seniors will complete a project as a culmination of their Catholic education, Bill Meagher, director of campus ministry, said.

"The idea of the whole Capstone is for them to show what they have learned and take it out into the community," Meagher said.&nbsp;

The projects help build life skills, he said. The students build proposals at the end of their junior year and present them to a committee. They present again to the committee at the end of their projects.

Madelyn Seiler has taken over music for Mass at the school. Monarch Music was a project at the school for many years. It was lead by Jim&nbsp;Balthazor until he died in September 2020.

"There was a group of us, and none of us really wanted it to die," she said.&nbsp;

The students provide music at Mass.&nbsp;Seiler, who also participants in school musicals and Pop Singers, is leading the group, picking the music and making sure copies of the music are available. She hopes to pursue a grant to purchase a digital music library that can be made available through iPads.

The group also sang at Via Christi and DSNWK during the Christmas season, but&nbsp;Seiler said that may not be possible this year because of the pandemic. The group will provide music at the Catholic Schools Week Mass and at a Mass at Holy Family Elementary.

Grace Pope and Emma Dinkel are raising money for the First Step Transitional Housing Project. They are selling hole sponsors for the Tip and Tuck&nbsp; Golf Tournament in April at the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course. The date is to be determined.

The funds will be used for general operating expenses for the First Step program. Sponsorships are being sold for $50 each. For more information, you can contact the students at egcapstone22@gmail.com. The students hope to raise $1,000.

Other projects include a student teaching art at Holy Family, a student teaching piano, a group promoting TMP, and a student&nbsp;volunteering at the St. Joseph Food Pantry. 

More Capstone projects are planned for next semester.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632508224217.jpeg" alt="Students at Thomas More Prep-Marian are organizing the renovation of this basketball court at&nbsp;Seven Hills Park, 33rd and Hillcrest, near the ARC Park, as their Capstone project." />
 <figcaption>Students at Thomas More Prep-Marian are organizing the renovation of this basketball court at&nbsp;Seven Hills Park, 33rd and Hillcrest, near the ARC Park, as their Capstone project.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA group of seniors at Thomas More Prep-Marian have received a grant to upgrade the basketball court in Seven Hills Park, 33rd and Hillcrest, near the ARC Park.Jessica Herrman, Maggie Baalmann and Julie Meitner secured a $7,000 grant from the Heartland Community Foundation to improve the court.New cement will be laid and an additional smaller court with lower goals will be installed.&nbsp;Meitner said this second court can be used by smaller children or individuals in wheelchairs.The students recruited Kris Munsch's cement class from the Applied Sciences Department at Fort Hays State Unversity to provide the labor on the project for free.Meitner's mother, Sarah Meitner, has spearheaded the construction of the ARC playground and splash pad at the same location. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/97a8f77f-5174-44cd-87a7-1a6a253ea2f6">The playground opened </a>on Sept. 13, and the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b37312c4-0e9c-41a9-a655-27d867717544">splash pad opened Thursday</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632509714437.png" alt="TMP-Marian seniors Julia Meitner,&nbsp;Jessica Herrman and&nbsp;Maggie Baalmann are working on a capstone project to improve the basketball court at&nbsp;Seven Hills Park, 33rd and Hillcrest, near the ARC Park." />
 <figcaption>TMP-Marian seniors Julia Meitner,&nbsp;Jessica Herrman and&nbsp;Maggie Baalmann are working on a capstone project to improve the basketball court at&nbsp;Seven Hills Park, 33rd and Hillcrest, near the ARC Park.</figcaption>
 </figure>Julia said she was inspired to work on the project after seeing so many children at the park and watching the ARC playground and splash pad come together."We just wanted to fix it up and match the rest of the park and give those older kids something to look forward to, as well," she said.Maggie Baalmann, who is also working on the basketball court project, said the girls wanted to bring some color to the courts. They plan on a collage for the backs of the new basketball goals and hope also to purchase benches for the area.The basketball court project is one of many Capstone service projects. Each of TMP's 41 seniors will complete a project as a culmination of their Catholic education, Bill Meagher, director of campus ministry, said."The idea of the whole Capstone is for them to show what they have learned and take it out into the community," Meagher said.&nbsp;The projects help build life skills, he said. The students build proposals at the end of their junior year and present them to a committee. They present again to the committee at the end of their projects.Madelyn Seiler has taken over music for Mass at the school. Monarch Music was a project at the school for many years. It was lead by Jim&nbsp;Balthazor until he died in September 2020."There was a group of us, and none of us really wanted it to die," she said.&nbsp;The students provide music at Mass.&nbsp;Seiler, who also participants in school musicals and Pop Singers, is leading the group, picking the music and making sure copies of the music are available. She hopes to pursue a grant to purchase a digital music library that can be made available through iPads.The group also sang at Via Christi and DSNWK during the Christmas season, but&nbsp;Seiler said that may not be possible this year because of the pandemic. The group will provide music at the Catholic Schools Week Mass and at a Mass at Holy Family Elementary.Grace Pope and Emma Dinkel are raising money for the First Step Transitional Housing Project. They are selling hole sponsors for the Tip and Tuck&nbsp; Golf Tournament in April at the Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course. The date is to be determined.The funds will be used for general operating expenses for the First Step program. Sponsorships are being sold for $50 each. For more information, you can contact the students at egcapstone22@gmail.com. The students hope to raise $1,000.Other projects include a student teaching art at Holy Family, a student teaching piano, a group promoting TMP, and a student&nbsp;volunteering at the St. Joseph Food Pantry. More Capstone projects are planned for next semester.&nbsp;

Basketball courts one of TMP seniors' Capstone projects this semester

The 45th Smoky Hill River Festival Merit Award-winning artists represent the exciting breadth and high quality of artistic talent that the annual festival features. The awards were presented with fanfare to the artists at their booths on Saturday, September 4th, amidst the festival weekend festivities.&nbsp;

	The top merit awards are the Martha Rhea Merit Award and the Marie Chapman Merit Award. Martha Rhea and Marie Chapman were both integral in the development of the Smoky Hill River Festival from its inception 45 years ago.&nbsp; A panel of five art professionals were onsite to jury the artist’s work based on a number of criteria such as innovation and craftsmanship, originality, evidence of personal imagination, and the use of quality materials.&nbsp;

	Steffan Plisterman, a painter and new artist to the Show, was awarded the Martha Rhea Merit Award for his unique work with glass, producing lasting and truly original works of art.&nbsp; Charley Forsyth, a returning River Festival artist, received the Marie Chapman Merit Award for his engaging and original relief prints which are carved and printed by hand.&nbsp;

The celebrated Fine Art &amp; Craft Show included more than 130 Festival artists, including Art/Craft Demonstration artists, four live stages of entertainment, a colorful Artypolis children’s area, more than 30 Food Row vendors, site-specific outdoor Art Installations and more.&nbsp;

	Artists who win an annual award at the River Festival’s Fine Art &amp; Craft Show are recognized for the body of work they exhibit each year and receive an automatic invitation to the 2022 Smoky Hill River Festival.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632414908679.jpeg" alt="Charley Forsyth, Marie Chapman Award Winner" />
 <figcaption>Charley Forsyth, Marie Chapman Award Winner</figcaption>
 </figure>The 45th Smoky Hill River Festival Merit Award-winning artists represent the exciting breadth and high quality of artistic talent that the annual festival features. The awards were presented with fanfare to the artists at their booths on Saturday, September 4th, amidst the festival weekend festivities.&nbsp;	The top merit awards are the Martha Rhea Merit Award and the Marie Chapman Merit Award. Martha Rhea and Marie Chapman were both integral in the development of the Smoky Hill River Festival from its inception 45 years ago.&nbsp; A panel of five art professionals were onsite to jury the artist’s work based on a number of criteria such as innovation and craftsmanship, originality, evidence of personal imagination, and the use of quality materials.&nbsp;	Steffan Plisterman, a painter and new artist to the Show, was awarded the Martha Rhea Merit Award for his unique work with glass, producing lasting and truly original works of art.&nbsp; Charley Forsyth, a returning River Festival artist, received the Marie Chapman Merit Award for his engaging and original relief prints which are carved and printed by hand.&nbsp;	The other Merit Award winners were:<ul>
 <li>Roura Young, a painter from Lawrence, Kansas</li><li>Sean Cusick, a mixed media artist from St. Paul, Minnesota</li><li>Michelle Chang, a mixed media artist from Rowland Heights, California</li><li>Sheldon Ganstrom, a ceramicist from Hays, Kansas</li><li>Caitlin Penny, a printmaker from Lenexa, Kansas</li><li>Wanda Taylor, a colored pencil artist,&nbsp; from Cameron, Missouri</li><li>Emily Chamberlain, a ceramicist from Wichita, Kansas</li><li>Akeem Ayanniyi, a wood artist from Santa Fe, New Mexico</li><li>Paul Gilliam, a wood artist from Timbo, Arkansas</li><li>Hannah Gebhart, a printmaker&nbsp; from Des Moines, Iowa</li><li>Anna Elmore, a fiber artist from Longmont, Colorado</li><li>Issac Shue, a ceramicist from Harper, Kansas</li>
 </ul><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632414940218.jpeg" alt="Sean Cusick, Merit Winner" />
 <figcaption>Sean Cusick, Merit Winner</figcaption>
 </figure>The celebrated Fine Art &amp; Craft Show included more than 130 Festival artists, including Art/Craft Demonstration artists, four live stages of entertainment, a colorful Artypolis children’s area, more than 30 Food Row vendors, site-specific outdoor Art Installations and more.&nbsp;	Artists who win an annual award at the River Festival’s Fine Art &amp; Craft Show are recognized for the body of work they exhibit each year and receive an automatic invitation to the 2022 Smoky Hill River Festival.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632414959510.jpeg" alt="Michelle Chang, Merit Award Winner" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Chang, Merit Award Winner</figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays artist among winners at Smoky Hill River Festival exhibition

High Plains Mental Health Center has received a two-year Block Grant for Community Mental Health Services from the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. This project, titled “Hope in the Heartland,” will provide up to $3 million in funding to strengthen and expand current mental health and substance use services provided in HPMHC’s 20-county Northwest Kansas catchment area.&nbsp;

This project will focus on several key program areas, including identifying and expanding services for adults and children with significant behavioral health disorders and expanding HPMHC’s growing presence in public school districts throughout Northwest Kansas. Embedding mental health services in public schools allows youth to quickly and efficiently be referred for treatment, while also removing potential barriers to care such as travel and requiring guardians to take time off work for appointments. This project will include offering mental health services through a hybrid on-site and telehealth platform to 10 additional schools in the region. An additional two school liaisons will be hired to help facilitate referrals from schools and help families coordinate service delivery. HPMHC also will further expand its existing Mental Health First Aid training program to make this important education more available for students and staff at regional school districts.

HPMHC also will create a full-time jail liaison position to assist with diversion and post-release service coordination to help inmates sustain needed levels of treatment following incarceration in efforts to reduce recidivism. This new program also will help inmates enter mental health services and coordinate their care during time served in regional county jails. HPMHC also will partner with existing regional peer support entities to strengthen services and increase referrals for individuals with a diagnosed mental health disorder.&nbsp;

In total, HPMHC will be hiring eight new staff positions as part of this grant project and contracting with two additional telehealth LSCSW clinicians to expand access for Medicare clients. The project also will help address current workforce challenges by providing staff retention incentives and additional staff training and development opportunities. The project also will include conducting a regional public survey to identify unmet needs within the community and help guide further outreach and education programming in efforts to reduce stigma.

High Plains Mental Health Center also recently received a federal grant to implement Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic services. The two projects will complement each other and allow HPMHC to significantly expand service areas that have seen increasing local demand, said Walt Hill, executive director of HPMHC.

“We are very grateful for the federal support, which will enable our community mental health services to significantly expand for the first time in many years as we continue our mission to provide high-quality client care in many settings within our 20 counties,” Hill said. “We are continuing to see unprecedented levels of community needs for services, and we are eager to raise the bar by furthering important community partnerships and making care more accessible for those who need it most.”

High Plains Mental Health Center is a licensed community mental health center dedicated to the aggressive pursuit of providing a comprehensive mental health program to the residents of Northwest Kansas. Embodied in this pursuit are fundamental principles of establishing quality services as close to home as possible, at an affordable fee, and delivered in the least disruptive manner available. Such services will offer a continuum of care so that treatment can be individualized, and our staff can respond quickly and compassionately to those reaching out to us. We’re Here for You!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578344475899.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseHigh Plains Mental Health Center has received a two-year Block Grant for Community Mental Health Services from the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. This project, titled “Hope in the Heartland,” will provide up to $3 million in funding to strengthen and expand current mental health and substance use services provided in HPMHC’s 20-county Northwest Kansas catchment area.&nbsp;This project will focus on several key program areas, including identifying and expanding services for adults and children with significant behavioral health disorders and expanding HPMHC’s growing presence in public school districts throughout Northwest Kansas. Embedding mental health services in public schools allows youth to quickly and efficiently be referred for treatment, while also removing potential barriers to care such as travel and requiring guardians to take time off work for appointments. This project will include offering mental health services through a hybrid on-site and telehealth platform to 10 additional schools in the region. An additional two school liaisons will be hired to help facilitate referrals from schools and help families coordinate service delivery. HPMHC also will further expand its existing Mental Health First Aid training program to make this important education more available for students and staff at regional school districts.HPMHC also will create a full-time jail liaison position to assist with diversion and post-release service coordination to help inmates sustain needed levels of treatment following incarceration in efforts to reduce recidivism. This new program also will help inmates enter mental health services and coordinate their care during time served in regional county jails. HPMHC also will partner with existing regional peer support entities to strengthen services and increase referrals for individuals with a diagnosed mental health disorder.&nbsp;In total, HPMHC will be hiring eight new staff positions as part of this grant project and contracting with two additional telehealth LSCSW clinicians to expand access for Medicare clients. The project also will help address current workforce challenges by providing staff retention incentives and additional staff training and development opportunities. The project also will include conducting a regional public survey to identify unmet needs within the community and help guide further outreach and education programming in efforts to reduce stigma.High Plains Mental Health Center also recently received a federal grant to implement Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic services. The two projects will complement each other and allow HPMHC to significantly expand service areas that have seen increasing local demand, said Walt Hill, executive director of HPMHC.“We are very grateful for the federal support, which will enable our community mental health services to significantly expand for the first time in many years as we continue our mission to provide high-quality client care in many settings within our 20 counties,” Hill said. “We are continuing to see unprecedented levels of community needs for services, and we are eager to raise the bar by furthering important community partnerships and making care more accessible for those who need it most.”High Plains Mental Health Center is a licensed community mental health center dedicated to the aggressive pursuit of providing a comprehensive mental health program to the residents of Northwest Kansas. Embodied in this pursuit are fundamental principles of establishing quality services as close to home as possible, at an affordable fee, and delivered in the least disruptive manner available. Such services will offer a continuum of care so that treatment can be individualized, and our staff can respond quickly and compassionately to those reaching out to us. We’re Here for You!

High Plains receives grant for community mental health services

Hays High DECA is excited to return to a traditional food drive that benefits the Community Assistance Center. As a result of COVID protocols and wanting to keep the community as safe as possible, this year's event has been delayed. This year's 2021 food drive will have a few adjustments to the typical Trick or Treat So Others Can Eat event. This year's food drive, Pack the Pantry 2021, will be held on Saturday, November 13, 2021, with the collections beginning at 10 am.&nbsp;

Youth and adult volunteers from Hays give of their time to make this food drive a success. To assure residents that the items collected are for the Community Assistance Center, all volunteers will be wearing an identification badge with their group name clearly printed.&nbsp; Please leave items on the porch if donors will not be home or do not want someone ringing the doorbell.&nbsp;

Possible items to donate include canned fruits and vegetables, boxed food items such Hamburger Helper or mac and cheese, jars of baby food, and any non- perishable food items. If you prefer to make a cash donation, volunteers can accept cash or check donations the day of the food drive. Checks are always welcome and can be made payable to the Community Assistance Center and may be mailed to their address at 208 E 12th St. Hays, KS.&nbsp;

The Community Assistance Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that helps Ellis County families &amp; individuals of low or no income, transients, homeless, &amp; disaster victims with food, clothing, and household items. The Community Assistance Center does not receive any federal, state, county or local funds and is funded by donations only.&nbsp;

Any house missed or those living in a rural area may take food items to the Community Assistance Center in Hays located at 12th and Oak until noon November 30, 2021.

Hays High DECA still needs groups and organizations to assist with this year’s collection.&nbsp; Please contact Shaina Prough at Hays High School, 623-2600, if you are interested in helping or need further information.

News releaseHays High DECA is excited to return to a traditional food drive that benefits the Community Assistance Center. As a result of COVID protocols and wanting to keep the community as safe as possible, this year's event has been delayed. This year's 2021 food drive will have a few adjustments to the typical Trick or Treat So Others Can Eat event. This year's food drive, Pack the Pantry 2021, will be held on Saturday, November 13, 2021, with the collections beginning at 10 am.&nbsp;Youth and adult volunteers from Hays give of their time to make this food drive a success. To assure residents that the items collected are for the Community Assistance Center, all volunteers will be wearing an identification badge with their group name clearly printed.&nbsp; Please leave items on the porch if donors will not be home or do not want someone ringing the doorbell.&nbsp;Possible items to donate include canned fruits and vegetables, boxed food items such Hamburger Helper or mac and cheese, jars of baby food, and any non- perishable food items. If you prefer to make a cash donation, volunteers can accept cash or check donations the day of the food drive. Checks are always welcome and can be made payable to the Community Assistance Center and may be mailed to their address at 208 E 12th St. Hays, KS.&nbsp;The Community Assistance Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that helps Ellis County families &amp; individuals of low or no income, transients, homeless, &amp; disaster victims with food, clothing, and household items. The Community Assistance Center does not receive any federal, state, county or local funds and is funded by donations only.&nbsp;Any house missed or those living in a rural area may take food items to the Community Assistance Center in Hays located at 12th and Oak until noon November 30, 2021.Hays High DECA still needs groups and organizations to assist with this year’s collection.&nbsp; Please contact Shaina Prough at Hays High School, 623-2600, if you are interested in helping or need further information.

Canned food drive to benefit Community Assistance Center

Three-day weather outlook

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

“Betterment:&nbsp;&nbsp;The act or process of improving something.”&nbsp;

This definition certainly applies to the work of a group of volunteers who are helping to improve their rural southeast Kansas community.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Danny Scott is with the Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation. He told of how Caney has made progress, thanks to the Kansas PRIDE Program, First Impressions, Rural Grocery Initiative, the City of Caney and members of the community.&nbsp;

Danny and his wife Norma have rural roots. They grew up in Chautauqua County near the rural community of Niotaze, population 82 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

Danny and Norma were in 4-H together and went to K-State before getting married. He started working at the bank in Caney during the summers and joined the bank full-time after earning his ag economics degree. He then worked for a computer network company in Coffeyville before coming back to Caney’s Community National Bank &amp; Trust, from which he retired in 2019. He had become quite concerned about the community’s trajectory.&nbsp;

“Caney was running downhill,” Danny said. Downtown businesses were boarded up, the grocery store had closed, the town’s old swimming pool was leaking, and the chamber of commerce closed down. “It was discouraging,” Danny said.&nbsp;

In 2015, the city hired Fred Gress as city administrator and he started working immediately on infrastructure.&nbsp;

In 2017, Danny and others got with the K-State Research and Extension local director to see what could be done to help. They formed the Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation, which joined the Kansas PRIDE program.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The group set out to conduct fundraisers to support diverse community improvements.&nbsp;One was for the swimming pool, another was to raise funds for a police drug dog, and another was for new Christmas lights downtown. “For every fundraiser we’ve had, it’s been different people that have stepped up,” Danny said. “Alumni and other people from out of town are donating too.”&nbsp;

These investments began to make a difference. A drug dog was purchased. A new swimming pool was built. Then there was the long-term question of grocery service in the town.&nbsp;

“Our grocery store had closed more than 10 years ago,” Danny said. “We tried all different alternatives but none of them worked.” Gress knew of an example where the grocery store was municipally owned and they finally decided to try it.&nbsp;

The city bought the former grocery store building and a bank loan helped finance the operation. Caney Market opened in March 2021 with help from a marketing analysis study provided by K-State’s Rural Grocery Initiative. “They’ve been wonderful,” Danny said.&nbsp;

“Kansas PRIDE has helped us a lot,” Danny said. “They helped us participate in the First Impressions program and hosted a grant-writing class provided by K-State Research and Extension.We’re very appreciative of the PRIDE program.”&nbsp;

Danny also credits Gress. “He took the lead on several of these projects. Without him, many of these things wouldn’t have happened. Hiring a good city administrator is worth the investment.”.&nbsp;

Last spring, Caney hosted a May Fest event at which more than a thousand people attended. A couple of K-State grads initiated a downtown outdoor live country music concert series called 4th and Live featuring Nashville recording artists. The concert series has proven quite popular.&nbsp;

“We have had several news businesses move to downtown,” Danny said. “We want to keep the positive momentum going. People have been good to us and I owe it to the community to improve it so it will be good for the future.”&nbsp;

For more information, search for Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation on Facebook.&nbsp;

Betterment is defined as the act or process of improving something. The community of Caney has benefitted from such improvement thanks to the work of committed volunteers such as Danny Scott and dedicated public servants such as Fred Gress.&nbsp;

We commend the Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation and all the donors and volunteers who are making a difference by investing their time and treasure. They are making their community a better place.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632322960025.png" alt="Norma and&nbsp;Danny Scott" />
 <figcaption>Norma and&nbsp;Danny Scott</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development“Betterment:&nbsp;&nbsp;The act or process of improving something.”&nbsp;This definition certainly applies to the work of a group of volunteers who are helping to improve their rural southeast Kansas community.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Danny Scott is with the Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation. He told of how Caney has made progress, thanks to the Kansas PRIDE Program, First Impressions, Rural Grocery Initiative, the City of Caney and members of the community.&nbsp;Danny and his wife Norma have rural roots. They grew up in Chautauqua County near the rural community of Niotaze, population 82 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;Danny and Norma were in 4-H together and went to K-State before getting married. He started working at the bank in Caney during the summers and joined the bank full-time after earning his ag economics degree. He then worked for a computer network company in Coffeyville before coming back to Caney’s Community National Bank &amp; Trust, from which he retired in 2019. He had become quite concerned about the community’s trajectory.&nbsp;“Caney was running downhill,” Danny said. Downtown businesses were boarded up, the grocery store had closed, the town’s old swimming pool was leaking, and the chamber of commerce closed down. “It was discouraging,” Danny said.&nbsp;In 2015, the city hired Fred Gress as city administrator and he started working immediately on infrastructure.&nbsp;In 2017, Danny and others got with the K-State Research and Extension local director to see what could be done to help. They formed the Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation, which joined the Kansas PRIDE program.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The group set out to conduct fundraisers to support diverse community improvements.&nbsp;One was for the swimming pool, another was to raise funds for a police drug dog, and another was for new Christmas lights downtown. “For every fundraiser we’ve had, it’s been different people that have stepped up,” Danny said. “Alumni and other people from out of town are donating too.”&nbsp;These investments began to make a difference. A drug dog was purchased. A new swimming pool was built. Then there was the long-term question of grocery service in the town.&nbsp;“Our grocery store had closed more than 10 years ago,” Danny said. “We tried all different alternatives but none of them worked.” Gress knew of an example where the grocery store was municipally owned and they finally decided to try it.&nbsp;The city bought the former grocery store building and a bank loan helped finance the operation. Caney Market opened in March 2021 with help from a marketing analysis study provided by K-State’s Rural Grocery Initiative. “They’ve been wonderful,” Danny said.&nbsp;“Kansas PRIDE has helped us a lot,” Danny said. “They helped us participate in the First Impressions program and hosted a grant-writing class provided by K-State Research and Extension.We’re very appreciative of the PRIDE program.”&nbsp;Danny also credits Gress. “He took the lead on several of these projects. Without him, many of these things wouldn’t have happened. Hiring a good city administrator is worth the investment.”.&nbsp;Last spring, Caney hosted a May Fest event at which more than a thousand people attended. A couple of K-State grads initiated a downtown outdoor live country music concert series called 4th and Live featuring Nashville recording artists. The concert series has proven quite popular.&nbsp;“We have had several news businesses move to downtown,” Danny said. “We want to keep the positive momentum going. People have been good to us and I owe it to the community to improve it so it will be good for the future.”&nbsp;For more information, search for Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation on Facebook.&nbsp;Betterment is defined as the act or process of improving something. The community of Caney has benefitted from such improvement thanks to the work of committed volunteers such as Danny Scott and dedicated public servants such as Fred Gress.&nbsp;We commend the Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation and all the donors and volunteers who are making a difference by investing their time and treasure. They are making their community a better place.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation 

Big-time, outside money has spread across Kansas elections for years but it hasn’t, until now, attempted to influence the most grassroots and least national-issue driven of all elections—the vote to choose who sits on a local school board.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In Kansas, candidates do not run as the nominee of a political party, but as local citizens.&nbsp; All school board elections are nonpartisan. So, it is surprising that a national Political Action Committee is taking an interest in who will sit on our school boards come November.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 1776 Project PAC is backing as many as 50 school board races in seven states.&nbsp; A total of 13 school board candidates in Lansing, Olathe, Blue Valley, Shawnee Mission and Andover are slated to be supported according to Ryan Girdusky, head of the 1776 PAC in an interview with the&nbsp;Sunflower State Journal.&nbsp; The 1776 PAC opposes teaching critical race theory.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PACs get contributions mostly from wealthy individuals, corporations, labor unions and national organizations. Voters often don’t know the names of those supporting any given PAC.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wichita is the only school district in Kansas large enough to be covered by the state ethics commission. In the other districts there is no limit on the size of campaign contributions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Contributions to campaigns are limited for individuals and corporations, but Political Action Committees may, not only make contributions to candidates, they can influence elections through unlimited expenditures independently of a candidate or political party.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We’re backing slates,” Girdusky said.&nbsp; “We want to take over the entire school board.”

Typically, PACs use advertising, social media and political-advocacy news outlets to support their candidates and attack messages to discourage votes for opposition candidates.&nbsp;

Also typically, as soon as one PAC appears on multiple communication platforms, the opposition political party strikes back with a PAC sympathetic to its candidate or cause.&nbsp;

Bringing the 1776 Project into Kansas school board elections is puzzling, because it’s basically pursuing a moot argument.&nbsp; In July the Kansas State Board of Education published a letter saying that critical race theory is not and never has been part of the state’s educational standards.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The board then pointed out that critical race theory is “not interchangeable with educational equity” which is “evident in federal and state education policies” taught across all schools in Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In other words, Kansas schools do not teach theories of history just as they don’t teach differential equations to six-year-olds, but six-year-olds do understand respect for others and they are taught racism is wrong.&nbsp; Racist events and conditions in our state and nation are explained accurately and discussed widely in Kansas schools but theoretical critiques are left to university-level study.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

PACs like the 1776 Project are front-line warriors in culture-war battles.&nbsp; Their huge resources create massive megaphones that can skew elections toward hot-button non-issues and away from the democratic process of one person, one vote.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PACs can divert voters from other issues that face schools such as increasing achievement of our lowest performing students, preparing all students to enter higher education or the workforce, enhancing reading, math and civics education and expanding early childhood learning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas doesn’t need school boards taken over by any special interest group.&nbsp; Kansas needs school boards taken over by reasonable, capable people with differing viewpoints who are committed to their local schools and are willing to do this difficult work without pay.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>Big-time, outside money has spread across Kansas elections for years but it hasn’t, until now, attempted to influence the most grassroots and least national-issue driven of all elections—the vote to choose who sits on a local school board.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Kansas, candidates do not run as the nominee of a political party, but as local citizens.&nbsp; All school board elections are nonpartisan. So, it is surprising that a national Political Action Committee is taking an interest in who will sit on our school boards come November.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The 1776 Project PAC is backing as many as 50 school board races in seven states.&nbsp; A total of 13 school board candidates in Lansing, Olathe, Blue Valley, Shawnee Mission and Andover are slated to be supported according to Ryan Girdusky, head of the 1776 PAC in an interview with the&nbsp;Sunflower State Journal.&nbsp; The 1776 PAC opposes teaching critical race theory.&nbsp;&nbsp;PACs get contributions mostly from wealthy individuals, corporations, labor unions and national organizations. Voters often don’t know the names of those supporting any given PAC.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wichita is the only school district in Kansas large enough to be covered by the state ethics commission. In the other districts there is no limit on the size of campaign contributions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Contributions to campaigns are limited for individuals and corporations, but Political Action Committees may, not only make contributions to candidates, they can influence elections through unlimited expenditures independently of a candidate or political party.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’re backing slates,” Girdusky said.&nbsp; “We want to take over the entire school board.”Typically, PACs use advertising, social media and political-advocacy news outlets to support their candidates and attack messages to discourage votes for opposition candidates.&nbsp;Also typically, as soon as one PAC appears on multiple communication platforms, the opposition political party strikes back with a PAC sympathetic to its candidate or cause.&nbsp;Bringing the 1776 Project into Kansas school board elections is puzzling, because it’s basically pursuing a moot argument.&nbsp; In July the Kansas State Board of Education published a letter saying that critical race theory is not and never has been part of the state’s educational standards.&nbsp;&nbsp;The board then pointed out that critical race theory is “not interchangeable with educational equity” which is “evident in federal and state education policies” taught across all schools in Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;In other words, Kansas schools do not teach theories of history just as they don’t teach differential equations to six-year-olds, but six-year-olds do understand respect for others and they are taught racism is wrong.&nbsp; Racist events and conditions in our state and nation are explained accurately and discussed widely in Kansas schools but theoretical critiques are left to university-level study.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;PACs like the 1776 Project are front-line warriors in culture-war battles.&nbsp; Their huge resources create massive megaphones that can skew elections toward hot-button non-issues and away from the democratic process of one person, one vote.&nbsp;&nbsp;PACs can divert voters from other issues that face schools such as increasing achievement of our lowest performing students, preparing all students to enter higher education or the workforce, enhancing reading, math and civics education and expanding early childhood learning.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas doesn’t need school boards taken over by any special interest group.&nbsp; Kansas needs school boards taken over by reasonable, capable people with differing viewpoints who are committed to their local schools and are willing to do this difficult work without pay.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: National PAC targets Kan. school board elections

Fort Hays State University's Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS) will host a series of free in-person and virtual information sessions during September, October, and December. High school students interested in the two-year, on-campus, early-college program can choose from 10 in-person sessions offered at locations across Kansas or four virtual webinars.

Students and guests can learn about KAMS and visit with representatives from the Academy at these sessions. Please visit the registration website at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJIASz3lOPaNGxN3gtAPqORBDulG0tJPBFCTShoYNrzSftDCCvrjIPPXhipD4GM0eMA-3D-3DNVwY_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem2hU-2FKcE46PwjM1KCKFta-2FzCTRnYQ9iC57dLIPk3BY5jkgHrI0MQx28dPINF-2FNZxHHpsRma6ZQWfZQXZzMyk2fB8vw4-2Fkvrr9O6BKKYK35sP778Y7Fuq-2BOvaK80Mfqina0TYKQUPD2NAlu3CBdL-2F8DQru1Ldu2twYVt7SM5L2PCcOZ1dY-2FAGbkHckadiBqSOOfj1zhvZtYaKDUEZqffPUdRTlPXUyN-2F-2BDHVsD2oAMvNLy5-2FccQR3oESC4CCARIrfDnWVAZb22xULmHyH2PZfBvA-3D-3D">http://www.fhsu.edu/kams/Info-session-registration/</a>&nbsp;to find a session in your area.

The information sessions are listed chronologically.&nbsp;

Thursday, Sept. 23 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Johnson County Monticello Library - Community Meeting Room&nbsp; 22435 W. 66th St., Shawnee

Monday, Sept. 27 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Topeka &amp; Shawnee County Public Library - Marvin Auditorium 101AB&nbsp; 1515 SW 10th Ave., Topeka

Thursday, Sept. 30 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Great Bend Public Library - Lower Level Meeting Room&nbsp; 1409 Williams St., Great Bend

Thursday, Oct. 7 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Manhattan Public Library - Auditorium&nbsp; 629 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan

Tuesday, Oct. 12 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Virtual Webinar

Thursday, Oct. 14 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Wichita Holiday Inn Express - Northeast&nbsp; 2340 N. Greenwich Rd. Wichita

Tuesday, Oct. 19 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Dodge City Public Library - Meeting Room&nbsp; 1001 N. 2nd Ave., Dodge City

Thursday, Oct. 21 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Fort Hays State University Memorial Union - Stouffer Lounge (Third floor)&nbsp; 700 Park St., Hays

Tuesday, Oct. 26 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Emporia Holiday Inn Express Northwest&nbsp; 3007 W. 18th Ave., Emporia

Thursday, Oct. 28 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Colby Pioneer Memorial Library - Meeting Room&nbsp; 375 W. 4th St., Colby

Monday, Nov. 8 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Virtual Webinar

Thursday, Nov. 18 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Virtual Webinar

Wednesday,&nbsp;Dec. 1 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Virtual Webinar

All information sessions are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Abby Anderson, coordinator for marketing and recruitment, at 785-628-4719 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aeanderson2@fhsu.edu">aeanderson2@fhsu.edu</a>. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJIASz3lOPaNGxN3gtAPqORDDPZ5gOdAJ5Cuo8xegw8gZMOAt_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem2hU-2FKcE46PwjM1KCKFta-2FzCTRnYQ9iC57dLIPk3BY5jkgHrI0MQx28dPINF-2FNZxHHpsRma6ZQWfZQXZzMyk2fD4SV7sTauSnkO1BvkJQqO54-2FfjMmv9-2FAp0RBeZH7TIDYpvQbECtIM5wfTjy36YRaEhZY-2Fcu4yfe9vBA6diov9ROWEMyPZxiq9dlTxfJHnZJoKE-2BbSJJWLJGEuRWjAdd6aDpAuftuq3WYkyeWWwEMI47MwHs8r2VvDiMaPMnaoJz1XavpHHyk5RFfJrGjc4f9Q-3D-3D">www.fhsu.edu/kams</a>&nbsp;for more information regarding the program.

KAMS is an early college program that focuses on advanced mathematics and science coursework. While studying at KAMS, students live on the FHSU campus in a select residence hall with other Academy students from around the world. Over the course of two years, students complete over 60 hours of college credit and complete their high school diploma. These college classes are taken alongside traditional college undergraduates and taught by college professors while simultaneously contributing to their high school graduation requirements. KAMS also provides hands-on research, leadership, and civic engagement opportunities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632413792090.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University's Kansas Academy of Mathematics and Science (KAMS) will host a series of free in-person and virtual information sessions during September, October, and December. High school students interested in the two-year, on-campus, early-college program can choose from 10 in-person sessions offered at locations across Kansas or four virtual webinars.Students and guests can learn about KAMS and visit with representatives from the Academy at these sessions. Please visit the registration website at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJIASz3lOPaNGxN3gtAPqORBDulG0tJPBFCTShoYNrzSftDCCvrjIPPXhipD4GM0eMA-3D-3DNVwY_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem2hU-2FKcE46PwjM1KCKFta-2FzCTRnYQ9iC57dLIPk3BY5jkgHrI0MQx28dPINF-2FNZxHHpsRma6ZQWfZQXZzMyk2fB8vw4-2Fkvrr9O6BKKYK35sP778Y7Fuq-2BOvaK80Mfqina0TYKQUPD2NAlu3CBdL-2F8DQru1Ldu2twYVt7SM5L2PCcOZ1dY-2FAGbkHckadiBqSOOfj1zhvZtYaKDUEZqffPUdRTlPXUyN-2F-2BDHVsD2oAMvNLy5-2FccQR3oESC4CCARIrfDnWVAZb22xULmHyH2PZfBvA-3D-3D">http://www.fhsu.edu/kams/Info-session-registration/</a>&nbsp;to find a session in your area.The information sessions are listed chronologically.&nbsp;Thursday, Sept. 23 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Johnson County Monticello Library - Community Meeting Room&nbsp; 22435 W. 66th St., ShawneeMonday, Sept. 27 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Topeka &amp; Shawnee County Public Library - Marvin Auditorium 101AB&nbsp; 1515 SW 10th Ave., TopekaThursday, Sept. 30 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Great Bend Public Library - Lower Level Meeting Room&nbsp; 1409 Williams St., Great BendThursday, Oct. 7 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Manhattan Public Library - Auditorium&nbsp; 629 Poyntz Ave., ManhattanTuesday, Oct. 12 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Virtual WebinarThursday, Oct. 14 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Wichita Holiday Inn Express - Northeast&nbsp; 2340 N. Greenwich Rd. WichitaTuesday, Oct. 19 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Dodge City Public Library - Meeting Room&nbsp; 1001 N. 2nd Ave., Dodge CityThursday, Oct. 21 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Fort Hays State University Memorial Union - Stouffer Lounge (Third floor)&nbsp; 700 Park St., HaysTuesday, Oct. 26 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Emporia Holiday Inn Express Northwest&nbsp; 3007 W. 18th Ave., EmporiaThursday, Oct. 28 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Colby Pioneer Memorial Library - Meeting Room&nbsp; 375 W. 4th St., ColbyMonday, Nov. 8 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Virtual WebinarThursday, Nov. 18 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Virtual WebinarWednesday,&nbsp;Dec. 1 – 6 p.m.&nbsp; Virtual WebinarAll information sessions are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Abby Anderson, coordinator for marketing and recruitment, at 785-628-4719 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aeanderson2@fhsu.edu">aeanderson2@fhsu.edu</a>. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJIASz3lOPaNGxN3gtAPqORDDPZ5gOdAJ5Cuo8xegw8gZMOAt_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIem2hU-2FKcE46PwjM1KCKFta-2FzCTRnYQ9iC57dLIPk3BY5jkgHrI0MQx28dPINF-2FNZxHHpsRma6ZQWfZQXZzMyk2fD4SV7sTauSnkO1BvkJQqO54-2FfjMmv9-2FAp0RBeZH7TIDYpvQbECtIM5wfTjy36YRaEhZY-2Fcu4yfe9vBA6diov9ROWEMyPZxiq9dlTxfJHnZJoKE-2BbSJJWLJGEuRWjAdd6aDpAuftuq3WYkyeWWwEMI47MwHs8r2VvDiMaPMnaoJz1XavpHHyk5RFfJrGjc4f9Q-3D-3D">www.fhsu.edu/kams</a>&nbsp;for more information regarding the program.<h2>About KAMS</h2>KAMS is an early college program that focuses on advanced mathematics and science coursework. While studying at KAMS, students live on the FHSU campus in a select residence hall with other Academy students from around the world. Over the course of two years, students complete over 60 hours of college credit and complete their high school diploma. These college classes are taken alongside traditional college undergraduates and taught by college professors while simultaneously contributing to their high school graduation requirements. KAMS also provides hands-on research, leadership, and civic engagement opportunities.

KAMS to host information sessions across state

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 26 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.

There have been 510 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;

As of Friday morning, there were nine COVID inpatients at HaysMed.

The KDHE reported Wednesday 49 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 60 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,314 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632504987408.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 update: Sept. 24, 2021" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=nejcr-10ea7f8-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 26 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.There have been 510 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Friday morning, there were nine COVID inpatients at HaysMed.The KDHE reported Wednesday 49 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 60 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,314 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

🎙 25 new virus cases; Kennedy — 'Delta has not been a big impact'

Gannett sells off 13 Kansas newspapers in transaction

CherryRoad Media Inc. announced today it has signed a definitive 
agreement to acquire 20 newspapers from Gannett Co., Inc. The 
newspapers, which include five dailies, are published in Kansas, 
Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri.

Dirks, Van Essen &amp; April, a media merger and acquisition firm 
based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, represented Gannett in the transaction. 
Terms were not disclosed.

This marks the largest acquisition to date for <a href="https://www.cherryroad.com/cherryroad-media/">CherryRoad Media</a>,
 which entered the newspaper industry in late 2020 with the purchase of 
the weekly Cook County (Minnesota) News-Herald. It has since acquired 
four titles in Arkansas, one in Alabama, and started the Rainy Lake 
Gazette in International Falls, Minnesota, in July.&nbsp;

CherryRoad Media is a whole owned subsidiary of <a href="https://www.cherryroad.com/">CherryRoad Technologies</a>,
 a Parsippany, New Jersey-based technology company that has been in 
business since 1983. CherryRoad provides complex technical solutions and
 system integration services to large enterprise customers, particularly
 state and local government entities. CEO Jeremy Gulban says the company
 decided late last year to look at the local newspaper industry because 
they felt there was a need for an infusion of technology from a 
supportive side as opposed to a competitive side.

“We are very excited to be working with such a talented group of 
people to serve these communities going forward,” said Jeremy Gulban, 
CEO of CherryRoad Media and CherryRoad Technologies. “We plan to bring 
the focus back to local news and to offer additional digital solutions 
to supplement the printed newspapers. I want to thank the team at 
Gannett for working with us to find a good home for these important 
community institutions.”

The newspapers acquired include the following titles:

<h2>Gannett sells off 13 Kansas newspapers in transaction</h2>Dirks, Van Essen &amp; AprilCherryRoad Media Inc. announced today it has signed a definitive 
agreement to acquire 20 newspapers from Gannett Co., Inc. The 
newspapers, which include five dailies, are published in Kansas, 
Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri.Dirks, Van Essen &amp; April, a media merger and acquisition firm 
based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, represented Gannett in the transaction. 
Terms were not disclosed.This marks the largest acquisition to date for <a href="https://www.cherryroad.com/cherryroad-media/">CherryRoad Media</a>,
 which entered the newspaper industry in late 2020 with the purchase of 
the weekly Cook County (Minnesota) News-Herald. It has since acquired 
four titles in Arkansas, one in Alabama, and started the Rainy Lake 
Gazette in International Falls, Minnesota, in July.&nbsp;CherryRoad Media is a whole owned subsidiary of <a href="https://www.cherryroad.com/">CherryRoad Technologies</a>,
 a Parsippany, New Jersey-based technology company that has been in 
business since 1983. CherryRoad provides complex technical solutions and
 system integration services to large enterprise customers, particularly
 state and local government entities. CEO Jeremy Gulban says the company
 decided late last year to look at the local newspaper industry because 
they felt there was a need for an infusion of technology from a 
supportive side as opposed to a competitive side.“We are very excited to be working with such a talented group of 
people to serve these communities going forward,” said Jeremy Gulban, 
CEO of CherryRoad Media and CherryRoad Technologies. “We plan to bring 
the focus back to local news and to offer additional digital solutions 
to supplement the printed newspapers. I want to thank the team at 
Gannett for working with us to find a good home for these important 
community institutions.”The newspapers acquired include the following titles:<ul>
 <li>Pratt (Kansas) Tribune</li><li>Kiowa County (Kansas) Signal</li><li>Hiawatha (Kansas) Penny Press</li><li>Butler County (Kansas) Times-Gazette</li><li>&nbsp;McPherson (Kansas) Sentinel</li><li>The Leavenworth (Kansas) Times</li><li>Wellington (Kansas) Daily News</li><li>Dodge City (Kansas) Daily Globe</li><li>Newton (Kansas) Kansan</li><li>Garden City (Kansas) Telegram</li><li>St. John (Kansas) News</li><li>Hays (Kansas) Daily News</li><li>Ottawa (Kansas) Herald</li><li>Nebraska City (Nebraska) News Press</li><li>Syracuse (Nebraska) Journal-Democrat</li><li>Hamburg (Iowa) Reporter</li><li>Independence (Missouri) Examiner</li><li>Chillicothe (Missouri) Constitution-Tribune</li><li>Boonville (Missouri) Daily News</li><li>Linn County (Missouri) Leader</li>
 </ul>

Hays newspaper acquired by New Jersey-based company

TOPEKA —The Kansas Supreme Court today announced that it had vacated a former Smoky Valley Middle School counselor's two convictions of rape of a child under the age of 14 and remanded the case for a new trial, according to a release from the court.

Brooke Dinkel who formerly taught school in Hays is now 40. She was convicted in Saline County District Court in 2014. According to court records, the victim was a student at the middle school.

In her defense, Dinkel argued the alleged victim had physically forced the first act of sexual intercourse and blackmailed Dinkel into continuing the sexual contact and that she had a mental disease or defect. 

After the conviction in Saline County District Court, Dinkel appealed, alleging a number of errors, and the Court of Appeals remanded the case for a hearing on whether her trial counsel had been ineffective, according to information released by the Kansas Supreme Court with its ruling. The district court concluded that Dinkel's counsel had not been ineffective and the Court of Appeals agreed. Additionally, the Court of Appeals rejected Dinkel's claims of error, largely based on its conclusion that her intent was irrelevant because there is no mental culpability requirement for rape of a child.

"On review, the Supreme Court reversed the Court of Appeals conclusion that Dinkel's intent was irrelevant. It ruled that evidence the sexual intercourse was physically forced was relevant to the voluntary act requirement," the Kansas Supreme Court information noted.

The Kansas Supreme Court then remanded the case to the district court for a hearing concerning whether Dinkel's counsel had been ineffective for failing to argue the voluntary act requirement. According to the information from the Kansas Supreme Court, the district court concluded counsel had not been ineffective.

"In an opinion written by Justice Eric Rosen, a majority of the Supreme Court disagreed. It held that counsel had been ineffective when it failed to craft a defense that rendered Dinkel's claims of forced intercourse legally relevant. But it affirmed the Court of Appeals conclusion there is no mental culpability requirement for rape of a child," the Kansas Supreme Court noted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632500056460.png" alt="Dinkel -photo Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Dinkel -photo Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —The Kansas Supreme Court today announced that it had vacated a former Smoky Valley Middle School counselor's two convictions of rape of a child under the age of 14 and remanded the case for a new trial, according to a release from the court.Brooke Dinkel who formerly taught school in Hays is now 40. She was convicted in Saline County District Court in 2014. According to court records, the victim was a student at the middle school.In her defense, Dinkel argued the alleged victim had physically forced the first act of sexual intercourse and blackmailed Dinkel into continuing the sexual contact and that she had a mental disease or defect. After the conviction in Saline County District Court, Dinkel appealed, alleging a number of errors, and the Court of Appeals remanded the case for a hearing on whether her trial counsel had been ineffective, according to information released by the Kansas Supreme Court with its ruling. The district court concluded that Dinkel's counsel had not been ineffective and the Court of Appeals agreed. Additionally, the Court of Appeals rejected Dinkel's claims of error, largely based on its conclusion that her intent was irrelevant because there is no mental culpability requirement for rape of a child."On review, the Supreme Court reversed the Court of Appeals conclusion that Dinkel's intent was irrelevant. It ruled that evidence the sexual intercourse was physically forced was relevant to the voluntary act requirement," the Kansas Supreme Court information noted.The Kansas Supreme Court then remanded the case to the district court for a hearing concerning whether Dinkel's counsel had been ineffective for failing to argue the voluntary act requirement. According to the information from the Kansas Supreme Court, the district court concluded counsel had not been ineffective."In an opinion written by Justice Eric Rosen, a majority of the Supreme Court disagreed. It held that counsel had been ineffective when it failed to craft a defense that rendered Dinkel's claims of forced intercourse legally relevant. But it affirmed the Court of Appeals conclusion there is no mental culpability requirement for rape of a child," the Kansas Supreme Court noted.

Kan. Supreme Court vacates rape conviction of former Hays teacher

HaysMed’s annual drive-through flu shot clinic has been scheduled for Sunday. The event will offer free flu shots for all residents older than 6 months.&nbsp; The time this year has changed to 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For the safety of the public and those working the flu drive, masks will be required for all people ages 2 years and up.&nbsp; In addition, physical distancing will be observed at all locations on campus.

It will be the 22nd year the hospital has offered the community service, and approximately 3,500 people are expected to be vaccinated during the free clinic.

People age 10 and up can receive their free flu shot without leaving their vehicles.&nbsp; HaysMed volunteers will direct traffic during the event.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you want to fill out the forms and bring them with you, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://haysmedfoundation.org/flu">https://haysmedfoundation.org/flu</a>&nbsp;and make copies to complete.

Children 6 months through 9 years of age will be vaccinated on the west side of the Center for Health Improvement.&nbsp; Adults attending with children can also receive their shots in the same location.

More than 100 volunteers will be on hand to help with the event. HaysMed partners with Fort Hays State University and NCK Tech as both facilities provide students to help with the shots.

There will be no nasal flu vaccine at the drive-through flu shot clinic.&nbsp; There will be no egg free vaccines available at the drive-through flu shot clinic. People with a severe egg allergy will need to contact their local healthcare provider for their flu vaccine.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625771878390.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed’s annual drive-through flu shot clinic has been scheduled for Sunday. The event will offer free flu shots for all residents older than 6 months.&nbsp; The time this year has changed to 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For the safety of the public and those working the flu drive, masks will be required for all people ages 2 years and up.&nbsp; In addition, physical distancing will be observed at all locations on campus.It will be the 22nd year the hospital has offered the community service, and approximately 3,500 people are expected to be vaccinated during the free clinic.People age 10 and up can receive their free flu shot without leaving their vehicles.&nbsp; HaysMed volunteers will direct traffic during the event.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you want to fill out the forms and bring them with you, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://haysmedfoundation.org/flu">https://haysmedfoundation.org/flu</a>&nbsp;and make copies to complete.Children 6 months through 9 years of age will be vaccinated on the west side of the Center for Health Improvement.&nbsp; Adults attending with children can also receive their shots in the same location.More than 100 volunteers will be on hand to help with the event. HaysMed partners with Fort Hays State University and NCK Tech as both facilities provide students to help with the shots.There will be no nasal flu vaccine at the drive-through flu shot clinic.&nbsp; There will be no egg free vaccines available at the drive-through flu shot clinic. People with a severe egg allergy will need to contact their local healthcare provider for their flu vaccine.&nbsp;

Drive-through flu shots available Sunday at HaysMed

BUNKER HILL — Father Emil Kapaun is on his journey home and Smoky Hills PBS will broadcast Father Kapaun’s vigil service and funeral live on Smoky Hills PBS on Sept. 28 and 29.&nbsp; Thousands will be paying tribute to a hero of faith and country.

“We are honored to have been given the opportunity to cover such a momentous event in Kansas history,” said Michael Quade, Smoky Hills PBS director of broadcasting.&nbsp; “We hope you will join us on Smoky Hills PBS as we show our respects to a man who demonstrated such kindness, humility, piety, and hard work.”&nbsp;

The Kapaun family and the Diocese of Wichita are currently in the process of transporting Father Kapaun’s remains to Wichita.&nbsp; His remains will be transported from Honolulu, Hawaii on a flight that will land at Eisenhower airport in Wichita on Saturday, Sept. 25.&nbsp; Father Kapaun’s remains will first be taken to his home parish of St. John Nepomucene in Pilsen for a private homecoming and observance for the parish community.&nbsp; 

From Pilsen, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported back to Wichita, to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, where they will stay until the rosary and vigil on Tuesday, Sept. 28, at 7 PM, and the funeral on Wednesday, Sept. 29, at 10:30 AM.&nbsp; Smoky Hills PBS will cover both the vigil and the funeral live. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9iqKXa24KFVPhKPv5etRx08MmXr6kdtGNzsBvtKkx-2B28cfsF_IfP7Wl9g6nwEUwl48cxNbdeWFS58yWRmiOeKrlcHMLgMqiO0xvM7tCDFp3Y3RUFBLF8YGhL59bQ9uXW32YWO7o3e6n3FeKQljtOb1NB4vzXuJxiq0EA-2BlaWAlDlobNoncDSjfAnffEDFDbpoG21RSQBHiP700Ss1jCREDwstqIdN69g3UzXXQ7eIRwUjzuh6paP2Ic8H5iQNDl5lA5pDK9bgnc3Mg5YX1M9Q6WiFW15cQGKp1kLdp9Zn2wdla-2BsiZiGEv0PA4lC7mAnGM2oNPiBnKu7sF3faK-2FlzIoCCg0o-2FQL-2Fys8OlJW2cAup1POW3bh3ih4alo9t0ABfxluW41A-3D-3D" target="_blank">www.fatherkapaun.org</a>

Smoky Hills PBS will cover the following live:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tuesday, September 28th&nbsp;at 7:00 PM - A public Vigil service for Fr. Emil J. Kapaun will be held at Hartman arena.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wednesday, September 29th&nbsp;at 10:30 AM a Mass will be held at Hartman Arena.

Father Emil J. Kapuan&nbsp;was&nbsp;born in Kansas in 1916 and from a young age felt a calling from God to serve in the priesthood. Ordained a Priest in 1940, Father Kapaun was called into service during World War II because of the spiritual needs of soldiers. He joined the U.S. Army as a Chaplain and traveled thousands of miles to celebrate mass with soldiers on the front lines. He would use the hood of his jeep as his altar.

Father Kapaun was taken as a prisoner of war, twice. Despite an opportunity to escape the enemy, Father Kapaun knew where he was needed the most and allowed himself to be taken again. He never faltered administering aid and comfort to his fellow prisoners-of-war in Prison Camp No. 5. Father Kapaun endured torturous treatment, frostbite, malnutrition, and was ridiculed for his faith. Those who he saved and comforted considered him “saintly.” Father Kapaun died in that prisoner-of-war camp at the age of 35.

Among other awards for his heroic efforts, Father Kapaun is one of only five Chaplains to receive the Medal of Honor, which he was awarded posthumously in 2013. The&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUUe6eaMEdnzh2pZX03pq-2B8ue5TcRuCowrOjETFRtTNHeMFH1Qukv4MDMvyEh7JT6QMoOL-2BuoIfL-2BT6G55JxyLErWLK-2FAh-2Fw2ERRH1YcKVWnVn5uSXkR6iywzY0haaxC06xgaQU39P5XoPvERD-2FCYfcE-3D-_kB_IfP7Wl9g6nwEUwl48cxNbdeWFS58yWRmiOeKrlcHMLgMqiO0xvM7tCDFp3Y3RUFBLF8YGhL59bQ9uXW32YWO7o3e6n3FeKQljtOb1NB4vzXuJxiq0EA-2BlaWAlDlobNoncDSjfAnffEDFDbpoG21RSQBHiP700Ss1jCREDwstqIdN69g3UzXXQ7eIRwUjzuh6a4TA2-2BMkjTlJzJOQeUCDOuQCoE-2BO9uNgAZXXS1eHUs1uCckKkCvr-2FgT747nCoYt6Zkdx1nZV4BuIXCW41tVA-2BU6w5MlAcs74qzhxF2PyQJ9MIgVRyVT9EJuzgNqGCApQvxklkF4Uk2d4TckV41-2FTQQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">Archdiocese of the Military</a>&nbsp;presented his cause for being declared a Saint in 1993 and the canonization process continues to this day.

<a href="https://frkapaun.org/about/" target="_blank">https://frkapaun.org/about/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632340654522.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseBUNKER HILL — Father Emil Kapaun is on his journey home and Smoky Hills PBS will broadcast Father Kapaun’s vigil service and funeral live on Smoky Hills PBS on Sept. 28 and 29.&nbsp; Thousands will be paying tribute to a hero of faith and country.“We are honored to have been given the opportunity to cover such a momentous event in Kansas history,” said Michael Quade, Smoky Hills PBS director of broadcasting.&nbsp; “We hope you will join us on Smoky Hills PBS as we show our respects to a man who demonstrated such kindness, humility, piety, and hard work.”&nbsp;<h2>Fr. Kapaun Comes Home</h2>The Kapaun family and the Diocese of Wichita are currently in the process of transporting Father Kapaun’s remains to Wichita.&nbsp; His remains will be transported from Honolulu, Hawaii on a flight that will land at Eisenhower airport in Wichita on Saturday, Sept. 25.&nbsp; Father Kapaun’s remains will first be taken to his home parish of St. John Nepomucene in Pilsen for a private homecoming and observance for the parish community.&nbsp; From Pilsen, Father Kapaun’s remains will be transported back to Wichita, to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, where they will stay until the rosary and vigil on Tuesday, Sept. 28, at 7 PM, and the funeral on Wednesday, Sept. 29, at 10:30 AM.&nbsp; Smoky Hills PBS will cover both the vigil and the funeral live. &nbsp;&nbsp;Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9iqKXa24KFVPhKPv5etRx08MmXr6kdtGNzsBvtKkx-2B28cfsF_IfP7Wl9g6nwEUwl48cxNbdeWFS58yWRmiOeKrlcHMLgMqiO0xvM7tCDFp3Y3RUFBLF8YGhL59bQ9uXW32YWO7o3e6n3FeKQljtOb1NB4vzXuJxiq0EA-2BlaWAlDlobNoncDSjfAnffEDFDbpoG21RSQBHiP700Ss1jCREDwstqIdN69g3UzXXQ7eIRwUjzuh6paP2Ic8H5iQNDl5lA5pDK9bgnc3Mg5YX1M9Q6WiFW15cQGKp1kLdp9Zn2wdla-2BsiZiGEv0PA4lC7mAnGM2oNPiBnKu7sF3faK-2FlzIoCCg0o-2FQL-2Fys8OlJW2cAup1POW3bh3ih4alo9t0ABfxluW41A-3D-3D" target="_blank">www.fatherkapaun.org</a>Smoky Hills PBS will cover the following live:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tuesday, September 28th&nbsp;at 7:00 PM - A public Vigil service for Fr. Emil J. Kapaun will be held at Hartman arena.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wednesday, September 29th&nbsp;at 10:30 AM a Mass will be held at Hartman Arena.###Father Emil J. Kapuan&nbsp;was&nbsp;born in Kansas in 1916 and from a young age felt a calling from God to serve in the priesthood. Ordained a Priest in 1940, Father Kapaun was called into service during World War II because of the spiritual needs of soldiers. He joined the U.S. Army as a Chaplain and traveled thousands of miles to celebrate mass with soldiers on the front lines. He would use the hood of his jeep as his altar.Father Kapaun was taken as a prisoner of war, twice. Despite an opportunity to escape the enemy, Father Kapaun knew where he was needed the most and allowed himself to be taken again. He never faltered administering aid and comfort to his fellow prisoners-of-war in Prison Camp No. 5. Father Kapaun endured torturous treatment, frostbite, malnutrition, and was ridiculed for his faith. Those who he saved and comforted considered him “saintly.” Father Kapaun died in that prisoner-of-war camp at the age of 35.Among other awards for his heroic efforts, Father Kapaun is one of only five Chaplains to receive the Medal of Honor, which he was awarded posthumously in 2013. The&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUUe6eaMEdnzh2pZX03pq-2B8ue5TcRuCowrOjETFRtTNHeMFH1Qukv4MDMvyEh7JT6QMoOL-2BuoIfL-2BT6G55JxyLErWLK-2FAh-2Fw2ERRH1YcKVWnVn5uSXkR6iywzY0haaxC06xgaQU39P5XoPvERD-2FCYfcE-3D-_kB_IfP7Wl9g6nwEUwl48cxNbdeWFS58yWRmiOeKrlcHMLgMqiO0xvM7tCDFp3Y3RUFBLF8YGhL59bQ9uXW32YWO7o3e6n3FeKQljtOb1NB4vzXuJxiq0EA-2BlaWAlDlobNoncDSjfAnffEDFDbpoG21RSQBHiP700Ss1jCREDwstqIdN69g3UzXXQ7eIRwUjzuh6a4TA2-2BMkjTlJzJOQeUCDOuQCoE-2BO9uNgAZXXS1eHUs1uCckKkCvr-2FgT747nCoYt6Zkdx1nZV4BuIXCW41tVA-2BU6w5MlAcs74qzhxF2PyQJ9MIgVRyVT9EJuzgNqGCApQvxklkF4Uk2d4TckV41-2FTQQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">Archdiocese of the Military</a>&nbsp;presented his cause for being declared a Saint in 1993 and the canonization process continues to this day.<a href="https://frkapaun.org/about/" target="_blank">https://frkapaun.org/about/</a>

Smoky Hills PBS to cover Kapaun’s funeral live

RUSSELL — After a year-long delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, RCT will present its 100th production, "Living Together," Nov. 2 to 6.

RCT presented its first production, "God’s Favorite," in 1986 and 98 comedies, musicals, dramas, and mysteries followed over the next three decades. "Living Together," originally scheduled as the final show of the 2020 season, welcomes patrons back to the RCT Playhouse and the world of live theater this November.

"Living Together" is one of three plays by Alan Ayckbourn collectively called "The Norman Conquests." RCT presented "Table Manners" in 1990 and "Round and Round the Garden" in 2002. The plays are at times wildly comic, and at times poignant, in their portrayals of the relationships among the six characters: Norman and his wife Ruth (Bob Roe and Sheryl Krug); Ruth’s brother Reg and his wife Sarah (Kiefer Craig and Monica Harrison); Ruth’s sister Annie (Teressa Roe); and Annie’s next-door-neighbor Tom (Alan Templeton).

In "The Norman Conquests", Annie lives in a countryside house taking care of her demanding mother, and has decided she needs a weekend off. Reg and Sarah have agreed to come and take care of Annie’s and Reg’s mother for a weekend while Annie goes on a short trip. However, Annie is secretly planning to meet up with her sister Ruth’s charming, rakish husband Norman for an illicit weekend together (something Annie has never done before, and is unsure about). However, things go wrong when Norman shows up at the house early to pick up Annie contrary to plan, and everybody ends up at the house for the entire weekend. Various arguments ensue while the characters have differing degrees of understanding about what’s actually happening.

The action in "Table Manners" was played in the kitchen while "Round and Round the Garden" was set in the garden. "Living Together" is played in the middle of it all, with entrances to the garden, the front yard, the kitchen and the rest of the house.

Carol Dawson, one of the original RCT members and founders, directed "Table Manners" and "Round and Round the Garden." Crystal Craig, veteran RCT volunteer, is directing "Living Together," and credits Dawson as an honorary director of the 100th RCT production.

 “Live theater requires flexibility, cooperation, creativity and compromise under the best of circumstances,” said Craig. “With the pandemic, RCT’s resilience has been put to the test, but we’re proud to say we’re ready to hit the stage once again.” 

Performances run Tuesday through Saturday, Nov. 2 to 6, at the RCT Playhouse (Fifth and Kansas, Russell). Show time is 8:00 pm. Admission is $12 or by season ticket.&nbsp;

"Living Together" is written by Alan Ackybourn and presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. 

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

Russell Community Theater is a nonprofit theater company in Russell, Kansas. The sole purpose of RCT is to produce theater for the community and the surrounding area. Completely volunteer-driven, RCT is supported financially solely through ticket admissions and gifts from those supportive of community theater.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632326038305.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Russell Community TheaterRUSSELL — After a year-long delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, RCT will present its 100th production, "Living Together," Nov. 2 to 6.RCT presented its first production, "God’s Favorite," in 1986 and 98 comedies, musicals, dramas, and mysteries followed over the next three decades. "Living Together," originally scheduled as the final show of the 2020 season, welcomes patrons back to the RCT Playhouse and the world of live theater this November."Living Together" is one of three plays by Alan Ayckbourn collectively called "The Norman Conquests." RCT presented "Table Manners" in 1990 and "Round and Round the Garden" in 2002. The plays are at times wildly comic, and at times poignant, in their portrayals of the relationships among the six characters: Norman and his wife Ruth (Bob Roe and Sheryl Krug); Ruth’s brother Reg and his wife Sarah (Kiefer Craig and Monica Harrison); Ruth’s sister Annie (Teressa Roe); and Annie’s next-door-neighbor Tom (Alan Templeton).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632326148388.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;The cast of "Living Together": Alan Templeton, Monica Harrison, Sheryl Krug, Teressa Roe, Kiefer Craig, Bob Roe" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;The cast of "Living Together": Alan Templeton, Monica Harrison, Sheryl Krug, Teressa Roe, Kiefer Craig, Bob Roe</figcaption>
 </figure>In "The Norman Conquests", Annie lives in a countryside house taking care of her demanding mother, and has decided she needs a weekend off. Reg and Sarah have agreed to come and take care of Annie’s and Reg’s mother for a weekend while Annie goes on a short trip. However, Annie is secretly planning to meet up with her sister Ruth’s charming, rakish husband Norman for an illicit weekend together (something Annie has never done before, and is unsure about). However, things go wrong when Norman shows up at the house early to pick up Annie contrary to plan, and everybody ends up at the house for the entire weekend. Various arguments ensue while the characters have differing degrees of understanding about what’s actually happening.The action in "Table Manners" was played in the kitchen while "Round and Round the Garden" was set in the garden. "Living Together" is played in the middle of it all, with entrances to the garden, the front yard, the kitchen and the rest of the house.Carol Dawson, one of the original RCT members and founders, directed "Table Manners" and "Round and Round the Garden." Crystal Craig, veteran RCT volunteer, is directing "Living Together," and credits Dawson as an honorary director of the 100th RCT production. “Live theater requires flexibility, cooperation, creativity and compromise under the best of circumstances,” said Craig. “With the pandemic, RCT’s resilience has been put to the test, but we’re proud to say we’re ready to hit the stage once again.” Performances run Tuesday through Saturday, Nov. 2 to 6, at the RCT Playhouse (Fifth and Kansas, Russell). Show time is 8:00 pm. Admission is $12 or by season ticket.&nbsp;"Living Together" is written by Alan Ackybourn and presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. For more information, call 785-483-4057. Please find us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/russelltheater">Facebook</a>.Russell Community Theater is a nonprofit theater company in Russell, Kansas. The sole purpose of RCT is to produce theater for the community and the surrounding area. Completely volunteer-driven, RCT is supported financially solely through ticket admissions and gifts from those supportive of community theater.

Russell Community Theatre returns with live shows in November

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>

——————————————

Cassius Dejaniero Johnson, 38, was arrested at 11:05 a.m. Sept. 14 in the 100 block of West 12th on suspicion of drug distribution.

Tre Joseph Ronde, 44, was arrested at 11:54 p.m. Sept. 13 in the 300 block of West 32nd on suspicion of domestic battery.

Tyler James Harry, 19, was arrested at 5:12 p.m. Sept. 14 in the 100 block of West 12th on suspicion of failure to appear.

Mackenzie Keegan White, 24, was arrested at 4:23 p.m. Sept. 15 in the 200 block of West 11th on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Charles Allen Hamilton, 36, was arrested at 3:30 p.m. Sept. 15 in the 1100 block of Vine on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, failure to appear and transporting an open container of alcohol.

Tanner Sy McDermott, 22, was arrested at 6:25 p.m. Sept. 16 in the 600 block of West 13th on suspicion of aggravated domestic battery and criminal damage to property.

Thierno Taha Barry, 24, was arrested at 11:32 a.m. Sept. 17 in the 2500 block of Canterbury on suspicion of identity theft, interference with a law enforcement official, unlawful computer acts, making false information, unlawful attempt to obtain prescription drug, criminal use of weapons, drug possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, distribution of prescription drugs and no drug tax stamp.

Eleazar Daniel Rodriguez-Ortiz, 26, was arrested at 2:36 a.m. Sept. 18 in the 300 block of West 11th on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Tanner Stephen Larson, 30, was arrested at 1:06 a.m. Sept. 18 in the 700 block of Main on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Marcus Nathaniel Rowe, 20, was arrested at 2:32 a.m. Sept. 19 in the 1000 block of East Eighth on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and transporting an open container of alcohol.

Ellin Olvia Thyfault, 29, was arrested at 2:26 a.m. Sept. 19 in the 500 block of West Eighth on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/arrests">Click here for past Hays Police Department arrest logs.</a>——————————————Cassius Dejaniero Johnson, 38, was arrested at 11:05 a.m. Sept. 14 in the 100 block of West 12th on suspicion of drug distribution.Tre Joseph Ronde, 44, was arrested at 11:54 p.m. Sept. 13 in the 300 block of West 32nd on suspicion of domestic battery.Tyler James Harry, 19, was arrested at 5:12 p.m. Sept. 14 in the 100 block of West 12th on suspicion of failure to appear.Mackenzie Keegan White, 24, was arrested at 4:23 p.m. Sept. 15 in the 200 block of West 11th on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.Charles Allen Hamilton, 36, was arrested at 3:30 p.m. Sept. 15 in the 1100 block of Vine on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, failure to appear and transporting an open container of alcohol.Tanner Sy McDermott, 22, was arrested at 6:25 p.m. Sept. 16 in the 600 block of West 13th on suspicion of aggravated domestic battery and criminal damage to property.Thierno Taha Barry, 24, was arrested at 11:32 a.m. Sept. 17 in the 2500 block of Canterbury on suspicion of identity theft, interference with a law enforcement official, unlawful computer acts, making false information, unlawful attempt to obtain prescription drug, criminal use of weapons, drug possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, distribution of prescription drugs and no drug tax stamp.Eleazar Daniel Rodriguez-Ortiz, 26, was arrested at 2:36 a.m. Sept. 18 in the 300 block of West 11th on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.Tanner Stephen Larson, 30, was arrested at 1:06 a.m. Sept. 18 in the 700 block of Main on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.Marcus Nathaniel Rowe, 20, was arrested at 2:32 a.m. Sept. 19 in the 1000 block of East Eighth on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and transporting an open container of alcohol.Ellin Olvia Thyfault, 29, was arrested at 2:26 a.m. Sept. 19 in the 500 block of West Eighth on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

HPD arrest log, Sept. 13 to 19

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer Every so often I have the opportunity to visit a classroom full of elementary students and read a book to them. More often than not, I’ve accomplished my guest reading visits using virtual platforms that so many are now accustomed to using. Thanks to technology, and a decent internet connection, I’ve been able to read to classrooms hours away from our farm.&nbsp; &nbsp; While the books I read vary depending on the grade level of students, the subject matter and the conversations we have following ultimately always focus on agriculture. &nbsp; It’s a time I truly look forward to as it allows this former teacher to briefly get back into a classroom and get kids excited about reading while also sharing our farm with them. &nbsp; After reading, the students and I spend time talking about the story and they can ask me questions about my farm. While I never really know the direction the students’ questions may go, I do know a lot of elementary-aged children are very curious about how many dogs and cows I have on my farm. I also know that during every single one of my visits, without fail, I will have a child inquire about my favorite crop. &nbsp; While I generally answer that question diplomatically — just as a parent would if asked who their favorite child is — the reality is that while I value and appreciate all of the plants we grow on our farm, I do give one of our crops a bit more attention than the others. &nbsp; Our popcorn crop receives a lot of my time and focus throughout the year. It’s the smallest crop we grow based on the total number of acres, but it’s definitely the one I spend a lot of my thoughts on. &nbsp; Maybe it’s because we’ve only grown popcorn for a handful of years, making it the “baby” of the farm. Maybe it’s because it requires a bit more attention and TLC compared to the other crops. Maybe it’s the fact that we market it directly to consumers, which is different compared to our other commodities.&nbsp; &nbsp; Like a doting parent, the popcorn is also the most photographed on our farm — second only to my own two children. My cellphone is full of images I’ve captured of this crop’s milestones throughout the growing season. From observing the small seeds getting planted into the soil, celebrating when tiny plants emerge from the earth, and cheering them on as they develop and grow larger and larger by the day. It’s all documented. &nbsp; Whether it’s the threat of weather in our area, making sure the plants are getting plenty of water during the hot days of summer, or obsessing over the moisture content of the kernels leading up to harvest, I definitely fret over the popcorn a bit more as well.&nbsp; &nbsp; I always experience a sense of relief when we get the combine into the field and finally begin picking the corn. I’m calmed once we safely tuck the grain away into its bin for storage until it’s time to send it off to be cleaned, sorted and bagged. And I can also breathe easier knowing when the grain has safely arrived at its destinations. &nbsp; So, while I can honestly say that I appreciate all of the plants that we grow on our farm equally as they provide my family with the life we have, I find myself quite fond our little popcorn crop. It might be the smallest, but it definitely receives the mightiest amount of my attention annually.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer Every so often I have the opportunity to visit a classroom full of elementary students and read a book to them. More often than not, I’ve accomplished my guest reading visits using virtual platforms that so many are now accustomed to using. Thanks to technology, and a decent internet connection, I’ve been able to read to classrooms hours away from our farm.&nbsp; &nbsp; While the books I read vary depending on the grade level of students, the subject matter and the conversations we have following ultimately always focus on agriculture. &nbsp; It’s a time I truly look forward to as it allows this former teacher to briefly get back into a classroom and get kids excited about reading while also sharing our farm with them. &nbsp; After reading, the students and I spend time talking about the story and they can ask me questions about my farm. While I never really know the direction the students’ questions may go, I do know a lot of elementary-aged children are very curious about how many dogs and cows I have on my farm. I also know that during every single one of my visits, without fail, I will have a child inquire about my favorite crop. &nbsp; While I generally answer that question diplomatically — just as a parent would if asked who their favorite child is — the reality is that while I value and appreciate all of the plants we grow on our farm, I do give one of our crops a bit more attention than the others. &nbsp; Our popcorn crop receives a lot of my time and focus throughout the year. It’s the smallest crop we grow based on the total number of acres, but it’s definitely the one I spend a lot of my thoughts on. &nbsp; Maybe it’s because we’ve only grown popcorn for a handful of years, making it the “baby” of the farm. Maybe it’s because it requires a bit more attention and TLC compared to the other crops. Maybe it’s the fact that we market it directly to consumers, which is different compared to our other commodities.&nbsp; &nbsp; Like a doting parent, the popcorn is also the most photographed on our farm — second only to my own two children. My cellphone is full of images I’ve captured of this crop’s milestones throughout the growing season. From observing the small seeds getting planted into the soil, celebrating when tiny plants emerge from the earth, and cheering them on as they develop and grow larger and larger by the day. It’s all documented. &nbsp; Whether it’s the threat of weather in our area, making sure the plants are getting plenty of water during the hot days of summer, or obsessing over the moisture content of the kernels leading up to harvest, I definitely fret over the popcorn a bit more as well.&nbsp; &nbsp; I always experience a sense of relief when we get the combine into the field and finally begin picking the corn. I’m calmed once we safely tuck the grain away into its bin for storage until it’s time to send it off to be cleaned, sorted and bagged. And I can also breathe easier knowing when the grain has safely arrived at its destinations. &nbsp; So, while I can honestly say that I appreciate all of the plants that we grow on our farm equally as they provide my family with the life we have, I find myself quite fond our little popcorn crop. It might be the smallest, but it definitely receives the mightiest amount of my attention annually."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: A farmer's pet

By MARK ROUNDTREE and JENNIFER STULTZ <a href="https://www.butlercountytimesgazette.com/story/news/2021/09/23/new-owner-promises-local-newspapers-infusion-energy-and-resources/5835643001/">USA Today Network</a>

CherryRoad Media has announced the acquisition of 
several newspapers in Kansas, including the Butler County Times-Gazette,
 all owned by Gannett.

In addition to the Pratt
 Tribune, the company has purchased&nbsp;the Hays Daily News, the Garden City
 Telegram, the Leavenworth Times, the St. John News, the Kiowa County 
Signal, the Dodge City Daily Globe, the McPherson Sentinel, the Butler 
County Times-Gazette, the Wellington Daily News, the Ottawa Times, the 
Newton Kansan and the Hiawatha World.

CherryRoad
 Media also has purchased several newspapers in Nebraska, Missouri and 
Iowa.&nbsp;The purchase of these newspapers, all part of the USA Today 
Network, will be effective Oct. 1.

"We're 
really excited to be working with the high quality of staff already in 
place in these communities," said Jeremy Gulban,&nbsp;CEO of CherryRoad 
Media. "We want to bring together our tech skills and tools and put 
together a great online news source and print newspapers for 
subscribers."

Gulban said a special agreement was in place with 
Gannett ownership to allow for a relatively seamless transition to new 
ownership for the newspapers in question. He said CherryRoad Media was 
willing to invest in local community newspapers because there was room 
for both print and digital resources in news coverage, especially areas 
that focused on local news.

"I don't think a 
newspaper is a newspaper unless we print a newspaper," Gulban said. 
"There are some who want a printed paper to hold in their hands, there 
are others who get their news online. We want to cut through the clutter
 and serve all with a better product."

Prior to the October 1, 2021 acquisition, 
CherryRoad Media owned seven newspapers in Minnesota, Arkansas and 
Alabama. CherryRoad Media is a division of CherryRoad Technologies, 
which originated in 1983. The company is based in Parsippany, New 
Jersey.

Gulban said his intent was to continue 
the legacy of the paper long into the future, fighting against economic 
forces with an infusion of creativity, energy, and resources to support 
local newspapers.

"As we get to know who all does what we will look into adding additional staff and facing the challenge of bringing in the right talent," Gulban said. "We look forward to supporting the communities our papers serve in every way we can. There are many exciting initiatives on the horizon with this new endeavor, with much more to look forward to in the months ahead. Please continue to support your local newspapers. They serve to remind of us of where we have been, as well as where we are headed."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632520869748.png" alt="Jeremy Gulban, CEO of CHerryRoad Media / Courtesy Butler County Times-Gazette" />
 <figcaption>Jeremy Gulban, CEO of CHerryRoad Media / Courtesy Butler County Times-Gazette</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARK ROUNDTREE and JENNIFER STULTZ <a href="https://www.butlercountytimesgazette.com/story/news/2021/09/23/new-owner-promises-local-newspapers-infusion-energy-and-resources/5835643001/">USA Today Network</a>CherryRoad Media has announced the acquisition of 
several newspapers in Kansas, including the Butler County Times-Gazette,
 all owned by Gannett.In addition to the Pratt
 Tribune, the company has purchased&nbsp;the Hays Daily News, the Garden City
 Telegram, the Leavenworth Times, the St. John News, the Kiowa County 
Signal, the Dodge City Daily Globe, the McPherson Sentinel, the Butler 
County Times-Gazette, the Wellington Daily News, the Ottawa Times, the 
Newton Kansan and the Hiawatha World.CherryRoad
 Media also has purchased several newspapers in Nebraska, Missouri and 
Iowa.&nbsp;The purchase of these newspapers, all part of the USA Today 
Network, will be effective Oct. 1."We're 
really excited to be working with the high quality of staff already in 
place in these communities," said Jeremy Gulban,&nbsp;CEO of CherryRoad 
Media. "We want to bring together our tech skills and tools and put 
together a great online news source and print newspapers for 
subscribers."Gulban said a special agreement was in place with 
Gannett ownership to allow for a relatively seamless transition to new 
ownership for the newspapers in question. He said CherryRoad Media was 
willing to invest in local community newspapers because there was room 
for both print and digital resources in news coverage, especially areas 
that focused on local news."I don't think a 
newspaper is a newspaper unless we print a newspaper," Gulban said. 
"There are some who want a printed paper to hold in their hands, there 
are others who get their news online. We want to cut through the clutter
 and serve all with a better product."Prior to the October 1, 2021 acquisition, 
CherryRoad Media owned seven newspapers in Minnesota, Arkansas and 
Alabama. CherryRoad Media is a division of CherryRoad Technologies, 
which originated in 1983. The company is based in Parsippany, New 
Jersey.Gulban said his intent was to continue 
the legacy of the paper long into the future, fighting against economic 
forces with an infusion of creativity, energy, and resources to support 
local newspapers."As we get to know who all does what we will look into adding additional staff and facing the challenge of bringing in the right talent," Gulban said. "We look forward to supporting the communities our papers serve in every way we can. There are many exciting initiatives on the horizon with this new endeavor, with much more to look forward to in the months ahead. Please continue to support your local newspapers. They serve to remind of us of where we have been, as well as where we are headed."Republished with permission

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