TOPEKA&nbsp;– Kansas Tourism is pleased to announce the lineup of attractions participating in the 2024 Sunflower Summer program. Designed as a benefit for Kansas families with school-age children, Sunflower Summer offers a way to explore and fall in love with Kansas by providing complimentary access to tourism attractions across the state.&nbsp;

The 2024 Sunflower Summer season will run from May 25 through August 11. More than 220 tourism attractions are participating in the program – a 97 percent increase from 2023. In order to participate in the program, Kansas families with school-age children must download the Sunflower Summer app and claim tickets to participating attraction venues. The digital tickets are redeemed at participating venues upon their arrival. Each user can only use tickets once per venue during the 2024 season.&nbsp;

“The Sunflower Summer program plays a pivotal role in making in-state travel affordable for Kansas families,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“It offers amazing opportunities for parents to nurture their children’s love for travel and appreciation for our incredible state and everything it has to offer.”

Participating attractions are located in all regions of the state and include museums, discovery centers, historic sites, arboretums, water parks, amusement parks, zoos, guided trolley tours, live theater events and professional sports events. For a complete list of participating locations and more information about the program, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3VuZmxvd2Vyc3VtbWVyLm9yZy8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDI1LjkzODgwNDAxIn0.L87NBz8kfFK0JdOvWuk043xlJnrAsY9obqfLutK-6K0/s/1303179659/br/241383691105-l">here</a>.

“Sunflower Summer serves as a family’s compass to discover the rich stories and legacies that define and shape our incredible state,”&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said.&nbsp;“Our hope is that this program will inspire Kansans to embark on memorable vacations and explore the treasures of their home state.”

The program is inclusive of all Kansas students, including public, private and homeschooled, from pre-K through 12th&nbsp;grade. This program is&nbsp;exclusively&nbsp;for Kansas families. The Sunflower Summer app will be available for download on both Apple and Android platforms after May 1.&nbsp;

Share your Sunflower Summer experiences on social media using the hashtags&nbsp;#ToTheStarsKS&nbsp;and&nbsp;#SunflowerSummer&nbsp;as you post your travels on social media. For more travel inspiration and tips about exploring Kansas, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnRyYXZlbGtzLmNvbS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDI1LjkzODgwNDAxIn0.XM-liphqGt2wGxwoHQz-J9K50dtJRCZd91hdcLWRyTY/s/1303179659/br/241383691105-l">here</a>.

Kansas Department of CommerceTOPEKA&nbsp;– Kansas Tourism is pleased to announce the lineup of attractions participating in the 2024 Sunflower Summer program. Designed as a benefit for Kansas families with school-age children, Sunflower Summer offers a way to explore and fall in love with Kansas by providing complimentary access to tourism attractions across the state.&nbsp;The 2024 Sunflower Summer season will run from May 25 through August 11. More than 220 tourism attractions are participating in the program – a 97 percent increase from 2023. In order to participate in the program, Kansas families with school-age children must download the Sunflower Summer app and claim tickets to participating attraction venues. The digital tickets are redeemed at participating venues upon their arrival. Each user can only use tickets once per venue during the 2024 season.&nbsp;“The Sunflower Summer program plays a pivotal role in making in-state travel affordable for Kansas families,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“It offers amazing opportunities for parents to nurture their children’s love for travel and appreciation for our incredible state and everything it has to offer.”Participating attractions are located in all regions of the state and include museums, discovery centers, historic sites, arboretums, water parks, amusement parks, zoos, guided trolley tours, live theater events and professional sports events. For a complete list of participating locations and more information about the program, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3VuZmxvd2Vyc3VtbWVyLm9yZy8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDI1LjkzODgwNDAxIn0.L87NBz8kfFK0JdOvWuk043xlJnrAsY9obqfLutK-6K0/s/1303179659/br/241383691105-l">here</a>.“Sunflower Summer serves as a family’s compass to discover the rich stories and legacies that define and shape our incredible state,”&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said.&nbsp;“Our hope is that this program will inspire Kansans to embark on memorable vacations and explore the treasures of their home state.”The program is inclusive of all Kansas students, including public, private and homeschooled, from pre-K through 12th&nbsp;grade. This program is&nbsp;exclusively&nbsp;for Kansas families. The Sunflower Summer app will be available for download on both Apple and Android platforms after May 1.&nbsp;Share your Sunflower Summer experiences on social media using the hashtags&nbsp;#ToTheStarsKS&nbsp;and&nbsp;#SunflowerSummer&nbsp;as you post your travels on social media. For more travel inspiration and tips about exploring Kansas, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnRyYXZlbGtzLmNvbS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDI1LjkzODgwNDAxIn0.XM-liphqGt2wGxwoHQz-J9K50dtJRCZd91hdcLWRyTY/s/1303179659/br/241383691105-l">here</a>.

Participating attractions for free Sunflower Summer Program announced

Three representatives of Early Child Connections were honored with Kansas early childhood awards.

Jade Staab was honored as Head Start Teacher of the Year.

Misty Graham was honored as Family Leader of the Year.

Hays High School senior Gabe Stanton was awarded the Alumni High School Senior Scholarship.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714164453248.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Three representatives of Early Child Connections were honored with Kansas early childhood awards.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714164860795.png" alt="Jade Staab and students" />
 <figcaption>Jade Staab and students</figcaption>
 </figure>Jade Staab was honored as Head Start Teacher of the Year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714164819663.png" alt="Misty Graham" />
 <figcaption>Misty Graham</figcaption>
 </figure>Misty Graham was honored as Family Leader of the Year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714164905663.png" alt="Gabe Stanton" />
 <figcaption>Gabe Stanton</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High School senior Gabe Stanton was awarded the Alumni High School Senior Scholarship.&nbsp;

3 from Hays Early Childhood Connections honored with Kansas awards

A three-person team from Junction City High School took first place in a national Jobs for America’s Graduates competition in St. Louis last week. Additionally, several representatives of the Kansas affiliate of JAG placed in the top 10 in the competitions.

JAG National hosted the National Career Development Conference (NCDC) in St. Louis Thursday through Saturday, with a contingent from each state affiliate attending for training and competition.

This year, 35 JAG-K students traveled to St. Louis to participate in national competitions that culminate Regional and State Career Development Conferences held in the spring in each of the 38 states with JAG programs. The seven competition categories are Financial Literacy, Creative Decision Making, Prepared Speaking, Career Preparation, Project-Based Learning, Business Plan, and Employability Skills. The results of the events were announced Saturday, April 20.

The JAG-K Creative Decision-Making team from Junction City High School, of James Lamar, Jae’Lynn Dennard and Jaden Exantus (pictured left to right) placed first in their respective category. The Junction City students gave Kansas its first win at nationals since the state claimed three first place finishes in 2020.

“I am eternally grateful to JAG-K who gave me the opportunity to compete, and I’m grateful to my teammates for supporting me each step of the way,” Exantus said of the accomplishment.

Leonardo Hernandez of Hays High School was runner up in the Employability Skills competition.

Analicia Aquino from Shawnee Mission North placed third in Prepared Speaking.

A team from Junction City High School consisting of Noah Maldonado, Jonae Conover and Alani Burks placed third in the Project-Based Learning event.

JAG-K students and teams who placed in the top 10 in their events were:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Holcomb High School (Ashlynn Bradley, Greg Martinez, Mattea Kennis), 4th&nbsp;Place, Project-Based Learning

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jackson Waters, Junction City High School, 4th&nbsp;Place, Career Preparation

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hannah Gideon, Russell High School, 6th&nbsp;Place, Career Preparation

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brooklyn Gilchrist, Kiowa County High School, 6th&nbsp;Place, Financial Literacy

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ilyssa Maya, Concordia High School, 6th&nbsp;Place, Prepared Speaking

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kyla Sterbenz, Shawnee Heights High School, 6th&nbsp;Place, Employability Skills

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bethany Wells, Junction City Innovations Academy, 7th&nbsp;Place, Career Preparation

Five Kansas programs were recognized as Outstanding Career Association Chapters, which honored chapter excellence in&nbsp;Leadership Development, Career Development, Civic Awareness, Community Service, and Social Awareness:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Augusta High School: Blake Firebaugh, President; Mindy McCormick, Career Specialist

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Junction City Innovations Academy: Bethany Wells, President; Willie Woods Career Specialist

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kiowa County High School: Reagan Greenleaf, President; Marcus Mitchell, Career Specialist

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Minneapolis High School: Clare McKain, President; Jay Macy, Career Specialist

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Russell High School: Carolyne Martin, President; Raina Tomlinson, Career Specialist

In addition to the victories in competition, Mycah Benton, a senior at Basehor-Linwood High School, was recognized at NCDC as one of 35 winners of the Ken Smith Scholarship Award in the amount of $2,000. The scholarship program honors the extraordinary leadership and 43 years of service of the first President and CEO of Jobs for America’s Graduates, Inc., Kenneth M. Smith.

“JAG-K was well represented by some outstanding students at the second annual National Career Development Conference,” said JAG-K President and CEO Chuck Knapp. “These young people continue to impress and inspire, and they are a consistent reminder that our evidence-based model works. There is not another program that is as comprehensive in the competencies taught, personal skills learned, and life changing results achieved.”&nbsp;

JAG-K is a multi-year, in-school program for students in grades 6-12 that offers tools to successfully transition students into post-secondary school, the military, or directly into the workforce with marketable skills. Participants in the program face multiple barriers to success that their JAG-K Career Specialist helps them overcome through a nationally-accredited, evidence-based model. Kansas’ 112 JAG-K programs serve approximately 6,000 students in 47 school districts across the state.

The 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization is a state affiliate of the national JAG program network which operates in 38 different states and territories. It is primarily funded through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant to the State of Kansas administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF). In addition to school districts and DCF, JAG-K partners with the Kansas Department of Education. Other JAG-K funding sources include ADM, AT&amp;T, EagleU, Evergy, Goldstein Charitable Trust, the JB and Anne Hodgdon Foundation, John Deere, the Kansas Chamber of Commerce, the Kansas City Royals Foundation, Kansas Gas Service, the Kansas Insurance Department, the Kansas State Bank Commissioner, Kohl’s, Synchrony Financial, the Taco Bell Foundation, the City of Topeka, United Way of Kaw Valley, United Way of the Plains and Walmart.

To learn more about JAG-K, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://nn75mk4ab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001OKtCr77ag-sCCN5I8b958ctOZgjleplYGV76HzhIAHDshewUm53cn-e-3v12tTbJtM7S0gRzAiBKHm1OaBdefEe_XZjVqhJeefGQfFIbpCpEpC0x4WfD9W2RsGIoVAr7KE1n4HTzPaBR6PIhIczVgDWLIueO8ZDlqf4SI4h_E-ig3HorF7pXShPB2ul9QfM2i2P0hft2vgpZuZhVGmVwfOP7e2RPEdC8xGCXM4VXETYj-5Ql0tZKE3u_OkEI7zqEkY4MjoK1CYBR5JNozOZc-TF3BUNN9j_8p5_ehaF7QavbfjqwlqQFhIPqRZ2pzKtNmzfV7Nb2XNYshAv6TbCbhn4xDaxkE_M9H-LCQpcjUjwIgMjZh8CJd4aY8vklfdqnwbRhlyF1A6cGLjBD6WGkJzr9KIH5GdsuBmrKBwgQPKQ=&amp;c=Q40ce9rTJ2ORt5XRQKcPwV81qquyWhJk9FdxGzsDuklaP9noLIdsAw==&amp;ch=XPq5ExjKGhBheAWRSfnMrxe5Q_VBHIS9c0ih7Rk9HIy7US084Wnfaw==">www.jagkansas.org</a>, ‘Jobs for America’s Graduates-Kansas’ on Facebook, and on Twitter at @JAG_Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713982806117.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedA three-person team from Junction City High School took first place in a national Jobs for America’s Graduates competition in St. Louis last week. Additionally, several representatives of the Kansas affiliate of JAG placed in the top 10 in the competitions.JAG National hosted the National Career Development Conference (NCDC) in St. Louis Thursday through Saturday, with a contingent from each state affiliate attending for training and competition.This year, 35 JAG-K students traveled to St. Louis to participate in national competitions that culminate Regional and State Career Development Conferences held in the spring in each of the 38 states with JAG programs. The seven competition categories are Financial Literacy, Creative Decision Making, Prepared Speaking, Career Preparation, Project-Based Learning, Business Plan, and Employability Skills. The results of the events were announced Saturday, April 20.The JAG-K Creative Decision-Making team from Junction City High School, of James Lamar, Jae’Lynn Dennard and Jaden Exantus (pictured left to right) placed first in their respective category. The Junction City students gave Kansas its first win at nationals since the state claimed three first place finishes in 2020.“I am eternally grateful to JAG-K who gave me the opportunity to compete, and I’m grateful to my teammates for supporting me each step of the way,” Exantus said of the accomplishment.Leonardo Hernandez of Hays High School was runner up in the Employability Skills competition.Analicia Aquino from Shawnee Mission North placed third in Prepared Speaking.A team from Junction City High School consisting of Noah Maldonado, Jonae Conover and Alani Burks placed third in the Project-Based Learning event.JAG-K students and teams who placed in the top 10 in their events were:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Holcomb High School (Ashlynn Bradley, Greg Martinez, Mattea Kennis), 4th&nbsp;Place, Project-Based Learning·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jackson Waters, Junction City High School, 4th&nbsp;Place, Career Preparation·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hannah Gideon, Russell High School, 6th&nbsp;Place, Career Preparation·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brooklyn Gilchrist, Kiowa County High School, 6th&nbsp;Place, Financial Literacy·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ilyssa Maya, Concordia High School, 6th&nbsp;Place, Prepared Speaking·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kyla Sterbenz, Shawnee Heights High School, 6th&nbsp;Place, Employability Skills·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bethany Wells, Junction City Innovations Academy, 7th&nbsp;Place, Career PreparationFive Kansas programs were recognized as Outstanding Career Association Chapters, which honored chapter excellence in&nbsp;Leadership Development, Career Development, Civic Awareness, Community Service, and Social Awareness:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Augusta High School: Blake Firebaugh, President; Mindy McCormick, Career Specialist·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Junction City Innovations Academy: Bethany Wells, President; Willie Woods Career Specialist·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kiowa County High School: Reagan Greenleaf, President; Marcus Mitchell, Career Specialist·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Minneapolis High School: Clare McKain, President; Jay Macy, Career Specialist·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Russell High School: Carolyne Martin, President; Raina Tomlinson, Career SpecialistIn addition to the victories in competition, Mycah Benton, a senior at Basehor-Linwood High School, was recognized at NCDC as one of 35 winners of the Ken Smith Scholarship Award in the amount of $2,000. The scholarship program honors the extraordinary leadership and 43 years of service of the first President and CEO of Jobs for America’s Graduates, Inc., Kenneth M. Smith.“JAG-K was well represented by some outstanding students at the second annual National Career Development Conference,” said JAG-K President and CEO Chuck Knapp. “These young people continue to impress and inspire, and they are a consistent reminder that our evidence-based model works. There is not another program that is as comprehensive in the competencies taught, personal skills learned, and life changing results achieved.”&nbsp;JAG-K is a multi-year, in-school program for students in grades 6-12 that offers tools to successfully transition students into post-secondary school, the military, or directly into the workforce with marketable skills. Participants in the program face multiple barriers to success that their JAG-K Career Specialist helps them overcome through a nationally-accredited, evidence-based model. Kansas’ 112 JAG-K programs serve approximately 6,000 students in 47 school districts across the state.The 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization is a state affiliate of the national JAG program network which operates in 38 different states and territories. It is primarily funded through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant to the State of Kansas administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF). In addition to school districts and DCF, JAG-K partners with the Kansas Department of Education. Other JAG-K funding sources include ADM, AT&amp;T, EagleU, Evergy, Goldstein Charitable Trust, the JB and Anne Hodgdon Foundation, John Deere, the Kansas Chamber of Commerce, the Kansas City Royals Foundation, Kansas Gas Service, the Kansas Insurance Department, the Kansas State Bank Commissioner, Kohl’s, Synchrony Financial, the Taco Bell Foundation, the City of Topeka, United Way of Kaw Valley, United Way of the Plains and Walmart.To learn more about JAG-K, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://nn75mk4ab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001OKtCr77ag-sCCN5I8b958ctOZgjleplYGV76HzhIAHDshewUm53cn-e-3v12tTbJtM7S0gRzAiBKHm1OaBdefEe_XZjVqhJeefGQfFIbpCpEpC0x4WfD9W2RsGIoVAr7KE1n4HTzPaBR6PIhIczVgDWLIueO8ZDlqf4SI4h_E-ig3HorF7pXShPB2ul9QfM2i2P0hft2vgpZuZhVGmVwfOP7e2RPEdC8xGCXM4VXETYj-5Ql0tZKE3u_OkEI7zqEkY4MjoK1CYBR5JNozOZc-TF3BUNN9j_8p5_ehaF7QavbfjqwlqQFhIPqRZ2pzKtNmzfV7Nb2XNYshAv6TbCbhn4xDaxkE_M9H-LCQpcjUjwIgMjZh8CJd4aY8vklfdqnwbRhlyF1A6cGLjBD6WGkJzr9KIH5GdsuBmrKBwgQPKQ=&amp;c=Q40ce9rTJ2ORt5XRQKcPwV81qquyWhJk9FdxGzsDuklaP9noLIdsAw==&amp;ch=XPq5ExjKGhBheAWRSfnMrxe5Q_VBHIS9c0ih7Rk9HIy7US084Wnfaw==">www.jagkansas.org</a>, ‘Jobs for America’s Graduates-Kansas’ on Facebook, and on Twitter at @JAG_Kansas.

Area students place at JAG national conference

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714516634385.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

STEVE GILLIAND Exploring Kansas Outdoors

Many a good fisherman has cut his or her “teeth” on bluegills, often catching them from a farm pond with nothing but a hook and a bit of worm under a bobber. Some of us can even remember catching them with a cane pole and an old cork fastened on some sort of heavy cord. They’re feisty fighters and provide just enough action to get and keep a youngster “hooked” on fishing. When spawning, they scoop out oval shaped beds in the pond bottom, and in defense of their spawning ground, the little rascals will chase about any bait or lure thrown into the water.

I recently stumbled across another role for bluegills besides helping kids learn to fish. Do you remember how coal miners of years ago carried caged canaries into the mine with them to detect toxic air? It seems the birds were able to detect toxins in the air well before the miners could, and by watching the birds’ reactions the miners would be warned in time to exit the mines before breathing the poisoned air. It seems that some time back the Army developed a system of using bluegill fish to detect toxins in drinking water, much like the canaries were able to do with air in the coal mines. The original process was named IAC 1090, or Intelligent Aquatic BioMonitoring System, and though it was developed by the Army for its own use, the system is currently used to monitor the drinking water at Fort Detrick, Maryland, plus several large cities including New York City, San Francisco and Washington DC, and since 911, even more large US cities have begun using bluegills to help protect their water supplies.

It seems bluegills are extremely sensitive to toxins in the water where they live, so the system works by employing bluegill fish at water treatment plants. Each fish is kept in an individual plastic case that is described as looking like a trunk made into an aquarium. Fish do a three week tour of duty and are then replaced. They are kept inside at the water treatment facility and water is piped through the case, where electronic sensors monitor each fish for what amounts to “fish coughs.” Much like we humans cough to expel something foreign from our respiratory system, bluegills do the same by flexing their gills to expel something foreign, say a grain of sand, from their breathing passage. The instruments pick up these “coughs” and other irregularities and send the information to computers that constantly compare it to the fish’s normal behavior. If the computers sense that enough of the fish are upset by something in the water, they automatically trigger water samples to be taken and notify workers.

Bluegills are best able to detect non-biological threats such as pesticides, mercury, cyanide, heavy metals, fuel spills and phosphates. By monitoring the fish, workers are not able to tell exactly what toxins they are reacting to, just that there is threat to the drinking water that needs immediate attention. One article I found said that the Army had tested bluegills against 27 different toxins, and the fish detected them all.

The system at Fort Detrick tests both the raw water coming into the plant and the fully treated water just before its leaves the treatment facility. One example of the bluegill’s effectiveness cited a situation when the computer monitoring the fish sensed that the bluegills sampling the raw water pumped from the river had become agitated. The incoming water was immediately shut off and samples taken, revealing that someone had evidently washed a pesticide truck upstream in the river. The incoming water was so poisoned that all the fish that initially sensed it died, but not before the threat had been

addressed and identified. In this case the city of Fredericksburg, Virginia also benefited from the bluegills, allowing it to shut off its incoming water also, which was being pumped from the same river just one hundred yards upstream.

A spokesman for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, had this to say about their system that uses the little fish to protect its drinking water. “We appreciate that there’s an irony to this, that the oldest technology in the world -life- is now being combined with high technology to keep the water supply of the region safe. We want to use what works, and if that means we have to become fish keepers, then we will.” So the next time you catch a mess of bluegills, look upon them with a whole new respect! 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>STEVE GILLIAND Exploring Kansas OutdoorsMany a good fisherman has cut his or her “teeth” on bluegills, often catching them from a farm pond with nothing but a hook and a bit of worm under a bobber. Some of us can even remember catching them with a cane pole and an old cork fastened on some sort of heavy cord. They’re feisty fighters and provide just enough action to get and keep a youngster “hooked” on fishing. When spawning, they scoop out oval shaped beds in the pond bottom, and in defense of their spawning ground, the little rascals will chase about any bait or lure thrown into the water.I recently stumbled across another role for bluegills besides helping kids learn to fish. Do you remember how coal miners of years ago carried caged canaries into the mine with them to detect toxic air? It seems the birds were able to detect toxins in the air well before the miners could, and by watching the birds’ reactions the miners would be warned in time to exit the mines before breathing the poisoned air. It seems that some time back the Army developed a system of using bluegill fish to detect toxins in drinking water, much like the canaries were able to do with air in the coal mines. The original process was named IAC 1090, or Intelligent Aquatic BioMonitoring System, and though it was developed by the Army for its own use, the system is currently used to monitor the drinking water at Fort Detrick, Maryland, plus several large cities including New York City, San Francisco and Washington DC, and since 911, even more large US cities have begun using bluegills to help protect their water supplies.It seems bluegills are extremely sensitive to toxins in the water where they live, so the system works by employing bluegill fish at water treatment plants. Each fish is kept in an individual plastic case that is described as looking like a trunk made into an aquarium. Fish do a three week tour of duty and are then replaced. They are kept inside at the water treatment facility and water is piped through the case, where electronic sensors monitor each fish for what amounts to “fish coughs.” Much like we humans cough to expel something foreign from our respiratory system, bluegills do the same by flexing their gills to expel something foreign, say a grain of sand, from their breathing passage. The instruments pick up these “coughs” and other irregularities and send the information to computers that constantly compare it to the fish’s normal behavior. If the computers sense that enough of the fish are upset by something in the water, they automatically trigger water samples to be taken and notify workers.Bluegills are best able to detect non-biological threats such as pesticides, mercury, cyanide, heavy metals, fuel spills and phosphates. By monitoring the fish, workers are not able to tell exactly what toxins they are reacting to, just that there is threat to the drinking water that needs immediate attention. One article I found said that the Army had tested bluegills against 27 different toxins, and the fish detected them all.The system at Fort Detrick tests both the raw water coming into the plant and the fully treated water just before its leaves the treatment facility. One example of the bluegill’s effectiveness cited a situation when the computer monitoring the fish sensed that the bluegills sampling the raw water pumped from the river had become agitated. The incoming water was immediately shut off and samples taken, revealing that someone had evidently washed a pesticide truck upstream in the river. The incoming water was so poisoned that all the fish that initially sensed it died, but not before the threat had beenaddressed and identified. In this case the city of Fredericksburg, Virginia also benefited from the bluegills, allowing it to shut off its incoming water also, which was being pumped from the same river just one hundred yards upstream.A spokesman for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, had this to say about their system that uses the little fish to protect its drinking water. “We appreciate that there’s an irony to this, that the oldest technology in the world -life- is now being combined with high technology to keep the water supply of the region safe. We want to use what works, and if that means we have to become fish keepers, then we will.” So the next time you catch a mess of bluegills, look upon them with a whole new respect! Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

GILLILAND: Bluegills; Canaries in the water

DODGE CITY - A tornado watch is in effect until midnight for much of western Kansas, including Ellis County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714600885215.png" alt="National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceDODGE CITY - A tornado watch is in effect until midnight for much of western Kansas, including Ellis County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714601130348.png" alt="National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>

Tornado watch for Ellis County, western Kansas until midnight

Hays High vs Liberal Tuesday, April 30 Hays, Kan. - Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex

Radio: KFIX (96.9) <a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1053545">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The Hays High Indians softball team returns home Tuesday afternoon for a&nbsp;Western Athletic Conference matchup with the Liberal Redskins.

The first pitch is set for approximately 4:00p.m.&nbsp;

Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and
Eagle Radio.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High vs Liberal Tuesday, April 30 Hays, Kan. - Bickle-Schmidt Sports ComplexRadio: KFIX (96.9) <a href="https://kfix.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1053545">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The Hays High Indians softball team returns home Tuesday afternoon for a&nbsp;Western Athletic Conference matchup with the Liberal Redskins.The first pitch is set for approximately 4:00p.m.&nbsp;Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and
Eagle Radio.

🥎🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays High hosts Liberal

Brittani Conrad of Phillipsburg was selected on Monday as the $1,000 winner in the Eagle Radio/Hays Post contest.

Thank you to all the listeners who participated.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714496519128.jpeg" alt="Brittani Conrad&nbsp;of Phillipsburg, second from the left standing, with Eagle Radio programmers. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Brittani Conrad&nbsp;of Phillipsburg, second from the left standing, with Eagle Radio programmers. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostBrittani Conrad of Phillipsburg was selected on Monday as the $1,000 winner in the Eagle Radio/Hays Post contest.She was awarded her check today.Thank you to all the listeners who participated.

Eagle Radio Cash Grab $1,000 winner announced

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The month of May is filled with many events and activities in Hays, including local high school and college graduations and commencements.

Melissa Dixon, Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director, has some of the other highlights.

A up-to-the-minute calendar of events is available on the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">VisitHays.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575300742886.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe month of May is filled with many events and activities in Hays, including local high school and college graduations and commencements.Melissa Dixon, Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director, has some of the other highlights.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/m68cfniH-AQ" title="Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau May events calendar" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714494795541.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A up-to-the-minute calendar of events is available on the Hays CVB website at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">VisitHays.com</a>.

🎥 CVB: May events and activities in Hays

Beginning Tuesday at 12:00 p.m., the north part of the 11th and Walnut intersection in Hays will be closed to through traffic for water line replacements. 

Any residents affected by this project will be notified by the contractor for any interruption of services.

The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public.

 If there are any questions, please call the contractor, J Corp, at 785-650-3995 or the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705673726015.png" alt="Image by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning Tuesday at 12:00 p.m., the north part of the 11th and Walnut intersection in Hays will be closed to through traffic for water line replacements. Any residents affected by this project will be notified by the contractor for any interruption of services.The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please call the contractor, J Corp, at 785-650-3995 or the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

Water line replacement at 11th & Walnut in Hays starts today

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications

Statewide crude production bottomed out last year. 

The Kansas Geological Survey reports total Kansas output last year of 27.7 million barrels or 75,805 barrels per day. That's down more than 1,200 barrels a day from the year before to the lowest annual tally on record. Kansas output has been in a steady decline since the high point in 2014, when operators pumped more than 135,000 barrels a day or nearly double current output.

• Output in Ellis County leads the state rankings but drops by 110 barrels a day from a year earlier to 5,881 barrels per day.&nbsp; • At number two, Haskell County dropped by more than two hundred barrels to just over 4,500 per day.&nbsp; •&nbsp;Barton County&nbsp;showed an increase of nearly a thousand barrels to 4,080 barrels per day. &nbsp;• Finney County pumped 3,800 barrels per day, an increase of 130 daily barrels. •&nbsp;Rooks County was number five with 3,600 barrels a day, up 41 barrels. • Russell County drops to number six in the county rankings, with average daily output of 3,594 barrels a day. • Stafford County production ranks eighth, dropping by nearly 100 barrels a day to just under 2,500 barrels per day.

Regulators approved 27 new drilling locations across the state last week, with 11 in western Kansas including one new drilling permit in Russell County. That's 283 new permits this year, compared to 416 by this time last year.

Operators completed 24 wells in Kansas last week. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 18 new completions east of Wichita and six in the western half of the state. That's 378 wells so far this year, compared to nearly 600 a year ago.

The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service drops by two rigs in eastern Kansas to 12 active rigs. West of Wichita, there are 18 active rigs, which is up one from last week.&nbsp; The count is down six percent from last week and down nine percent from last year at this time. Drilling was underway on Friday on leases in Barton and Stafford counties.

Friday's Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes drops to 613 rigs, a decline of five oil rigs and one seeking natural gas. The tally in Louisiana was down four rigs. New Mexico was down one rig while Texas was up one.

Stockpiles are dropping, except in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The Energy Information Administration reports commercial crude inventories dropping 6.4 million barrels to just under 454 million as of April 19. Stockpiles are about three percent below the five-year average for this time of year. 

Government data reflect an increase in strategic inventories for the second week in a row. The Energy Information Administration's weekly Petroleum Balance Sheet shows an increase of 800,000 barrels in the SPR, marking a total increase of 1.4 million barrels in the last two weeks. 

The Energy Information Administration canceled previous efforts to buy about three million barrels when market prices failed to meet the government's target $79 a barrel. Prices have been over $80 for more than a month. 

The reserve remains a little over half full, at more than 365 million barrels. The U.S. stored more than 600,000 barrels before Russia's invasion of Ukraine prompted the government to sell off strategic stockpiles to tame prices.

Energy Information Administration notes U.S. crude production increased slightly from a week ago. Alaska adds six thousand barrels per day while the lower-48 states held steady for a nationwide average of 13,137,000 barrels per day.

The U.S. is a net petroleum exporter, but we import more crude oil than we ship out by 1.3 million barrels a day. Domestic crude-oil imports last week rose 36-thousand barrels a day for an average just shy of 6.5 million barrels a day, outpacing crude exports by 1.4 million barrels a day.

 The Energy Information Administration says petroleum product imports were also up slightly, driving total petroleum imports up to nearly 8.5 million barrels a day. Total petroleum exports topped 12 million barrels a day last week.

Slack demand drops gasoline prices, across the country and here at home. Pump prices are down despite dwindling national gasoline and diesel inventories. The auto club Triple-A says motor fuel demand typically slows in the run-up to Memorial Day and the traditional summer driving season. Gasoline prices have dropped two cents from last week. 

Diesel prices nationwide are three cents lower than a week ago. The Energy Information Administration reports diesel consumption this year is lower than usual, due largely to warmer winter weather and reduced manufacturing activity, but also to the substitution of biofuels on the West Coast.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications Statewide crude production bottomed out last year. The Kansas Geological Survey reports total Kansas output last year of 27.7 million barrels or 75,805 barrels per day. That's down more than 1,200 barrels a day from the year before to the lowest annual tally on record. Kansas output has been in a steady decline since the high point in 2014, when operators pumped more than 135,000 barrels a day or nearly double current output.Most county totals were also lower. • Output in Ellis County leads the state rankings but drops by 110 barrels a day from a year earlier to 5,881 barrels per day.&nbsp; • At number two, Haskell County dropped by more than two hundred barrels to just over 4,500 per day.&nbsp; •&nbsp;Barton County&nbsp;showed an increase of nearly a thousand barrels to 4,080 barrels per day. &nbsp;• Finney County pumped 3,800 barrels per day, an increase of 130 daily barrels. •&nbsp;Rooks County was number five with 3,600 barrels a day, up 41 barrels. • Russell County drops to number six in the county rankings, with average daily output of 3,594 barrels a day. • Stafford County production ranks eighth, dropping by nearly 100 barrels a day to just under 2,500 barrels per day.Regulators approved 27 new drilling locations across the state last week, with 11 in western Kansas including one new drilling permit in Russell County. That's 283 new permits this year, compared to 416 by this time last year.Operators completed 24 wells in Kansas last week. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 18 new completions east of Wichita and six in the western half of the state. That's 378 wells so far this year, compared to nearly 600 a year ago.The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil and Gas Service drops by two rigs in eastern Kansas to 12 active rigs. West of Wichita, there are 18 active rigs, which is up one from last week.&nbsp; The count is down six percent from last week and down nine percent from last year at this time. Drilling was underway on Friday on leases in Barton and Stafford counties.Friday's Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes drops to 613 rigs, a decline of five oil rigs and one seeking natural gas. The tally in Louisiana was down four rigs. New Mexico was down one rig while Texas was up one.Stockpiles are dropping, except in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The Energy Information Administration reports commercial crude inventories dropping 6.4 million barrels to just under 454 million as of April 19. Stockpiles are about three percent below the five-year average for this time of year. Government data reflect an increase in strategic inventories for the second week in a row. The Energy Information Administration's weekly Petroleum Balance Sheet shows an increase of 800,000 barrels in the SPR, marking a total increase of 1.4 million barrels in the last two weeks. The Energy Information Administration canceled previous efforts to buy about three million barrels when market prices failed to meet the government's target $79 a barrel. Prices have been over $80 for more than a month. The reserve remains a little over half full, at more than 365 million barrels. The U.S. stored more than 600,000 barrels before Russia's invasion of Ukraine prompted the government to sell off strategic stockpiles to tame prices.Energy Information Administration notes U.S. crude production increased slightly from a week ago. Alaska adds six thousand barrels per day while the lower-48 states held steady for a nationwide average of 13,137,000 barrels per day.The U.S. is a net petroleum exporter, but we import more crude oil than we ship out by 1.3 million barrels a day. Domestic crude-oil imports last week rose 36-thousand barrels a day for an average just shy of 6.5 million barrels a day, outpacing crude exports by 1.4 million barrels a day. The Energy Information Administration says petroleum product imports were also up slightly, driving total petroleum imports up to nearly 8.5 million barrels a day. Total petroleum exports topped 12 million barrels a day last week.Slack demand drops gasoline prices, across the country and here at home. Pump prices are down despite dwindling national gasoline and diesel inventories. The auto club Triple-A says motor fuel demand typically slows in the run-up to Memorial Day and the traditional summer driving season. Gasoline prices have dropped two cents from last week. Diesel prices nationwide are three cents lower than a week ago. The Energy Information Administration reports diesel consumption this year is lower than usual, due largely to warmer winter weather and reduced manufacturing activity, but also to the substitution of biofuels on the West Coast.

News from the Oil Patch: Kansas production dips to all-time low

Ellis County and much of the surrounding area are in the second consecutive day of a heat advisory issued by the National Weather Service in Dodge City.

Monday's high in Hays was 101 degrees as reported by the K-State Agricultural Research Center. The record high for July 29 is 110 degrees set in 2012.

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c0e85612-d835-48d4-b8af-7237482bd72d">three-day weather forecast</a> calls for temperatures in the triple digits through Thursday with a slight chance of rain Tuesday morning and Wednesday.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722348657850.png" alt="National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostEllis County and much of the surrounding area are in the second consecutive day of a heat advisory issued by the National Weather Service in Dodge City.Monday's high in Hays was 101 degrees as reported by the K-State Agricultural Research Center. The record high for July 29 is 110 degrees set in 2012.The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c0e85612-d835-48d4-b8af-7237482bd72d">three-day weather forecast</a> calls for temperatures in the triple digits through Thursday with a slight chance of rain Tuesday morning and Wednesday.&nbsp;

Hays area in second consecutive day of heat advisory

The Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge division is
announcing that a culvert replacement project will be taking place in the 200
block of 330th Avenue. 

This area will be closed to traffic beginning at 8:00 a.m.
on Tuesday, April 30, and will remain closed until the project is completed. 

The expected completion date will be Thursday, May 2nd,
pending weather conditions.

Motorists traveling in the affected closure areas should use
alternate routes of travel until the projects are complete. 

Please direct any questions to the Ellis County Public Works
Road &amp; Bridge division at 785-628-9455. 

Your cooperation during this project is appreciated.

Ellis Co. Public WorksThe Ellis County Public Works Road &amp; Bridge division is
announcing that a culvert replacement project will be taking place in the 200
block of 330th Avenue. This area will be closed to traffic beginning at 8:00 a.m.
on Tuesday, April 30, and will remain closed until the project is completed. The expected completion date will be Thursday, May 2nd,
pending weather conditions.Motorists traveling in the affected closure areas should use
alternate routes of travel until the projects are complete. Please direct any questions to the Ellis County Public Works
Road &amp; Bridge division at 785-628-9455. Your cooperation during this project is appreciated.

Culvert replacement project starts Tuesday on 330th Ave.

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

As Whiskey Creek bids farewell, Breaks Eatery &amp; Bar will open in Hays and serve fresh morning flavors.

The new establishment, which specializes in breakfast, brunch, and lunch, replaces the former Whiskey Creek location at 3203 Vine St.

Chuck Comeau, a managing member, said the franchise-owned restaurant is transforming into a distinct locally-owned business.

"Everything will be rebranded, from the logo to the plates and silverware," he said. "Everything is going to be in and of itself a representation of the new brand."

Comeau said the plan is to open on May 15 as construction progresses on interior and exterior designs.

The menu will feature a variety of items for different meal times, including sandwiches, pasta, distinctive salads and Belgian waffles.

The restaurant will also include a morning bar offering with a diverse wine selection, as well as mimosas, Bellini's and Bloody Mary's.

Comeau said the patio area of Breaks will be enclosed to provide privacy and ensure customers enjoy dining outside as much as they do indoors.

"We want people to be inspired by it as opposed to just being your typical breakfast place," he said.

The exterior and interior of the restaurant are undergoing remodeling to adopt a new modern atmosphere by scrubbing away Whiskey Creek traits.

Whiskey Creek had been a fixture in Hays for 18 years until February when Comeau said it was time to innovate.

"We decided to do something different and bring a new direction to what was here," he said. "People have to do that in business. They have to constantly reinvent themselves, or else it just dies."

Comeau said the shift from steak to breakfast reflects a demand for breakfast-focused restaurants in Hays while offering other meal options.

"We've taken that same energy that people normally put to innovate in the lunch and dinner timeframe and focus it on breakfast, brunch and lunch," he said.

Customers with Whiskey Creek gift certificates that have yet to expire can still redeem them at Breaks despite the franchise restaurant's closure.

Breaks remodeling is set to conclude in May but is subject to change due to construction delays. Recent developments involve tile work, lighting, ceiling and kitchen renovations.

Comeau said an opening celebration is probable. The current focus is on assembling a team to serve the community.

"We're always looking for anyone who loves to cook and loves food because that's who we are, people who love food and love to cook," he said.

Breaks Eatery &amp; Bar is looking to hire hardworking people who want a career in the culinary and hospitality industry. You can find more information <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=122127364352240942&amp;set=a.122118899138240942">here</a>.

Breaks will be open from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays through Sundays.

You can also follow Breaks Eatery &amp; Bar on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557228286288">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714402933866.jpeg" alt="Breaks Eatery &amp; Bar is under construction at the former Whiskey Creek location. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Breaks Eatery &amp; Bar is under construction at the former Whiskey Creek location. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostAs Whiskey Creek bids farewell, Breaks Eatery &amp; Bar will open in Hays and serve fresh morning flavors.The new establishment, which specializes in breakfast, brunch, and lunch, replaces the former Whiskey Creek location at 3203 Vine St.Chuck Comeau, a managing member, said the franchise-owned restaurant is transforming into a distinct locally-owned business."Everything will be rebranded, from the logo to the plates and silverware," he said. "Everything is going to be in and of itself a representation of the new brand."Comeau said the plan is to open on May 15 as construction progresses on interior and exterior designs.The menu will feature a variety of items for different meal times, including sandwiches, pasta, distinctive salads and Belgian waffles.The restaurant will also include a morning bar offering with a diverse wine selection, as well as mimosas, Bellini's and Bloody Mary's.Comeau said the patio area of Breaks will be enclosed to provide privacy and ensure customers enjoy dining outside as much as they do indoors."We want people to be inspired by it as opposed to just being your typical breakfast place," he said.The exterior and interior of the restaurant are undergoing remodeling to adopt a new modern atmosphere by scrubbing away Whiskey Creek traits.Whiskey Creek had been a fixture in Hays for 18 years until February when Comeau said it was time to innovate."We decided to do something different and bring a new direction to what was here," he said. "People have to do that in business. They have to constantly reinvent themselves, or else it just dies."Comeau said the shift from steak to breakfast reflects a demand for breakfast-focused restaurants in Hays while offering other meal options."We've taken that same energy that people normally put to innovate in the lunch and dinner timeframe and focus it on breakfast, brunch and lunch," he said.Customers with Whiskey Creek gift certificates that have yet to expire can still redeem them at Breaks despite the franchise restaurant's closure.Breaks remodeling is set to conclude in May but is subject to change due to construction delays. Recent developments involve tile work, lighting, ceiling and kitchen renovations.Comeau said an opening celebration is probable. The current focus is on assembling a team to serve the community."We're always looking for anyone who loves to cook and loves food because that's who we are, people who love food and love to cook," he said.Breaks Eatery &amp; Bar is looking to hire hardworking people who want a career in the culinary and hospitality industry. You can find more information <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=122127364352240942&amp;set=a.122118899138240942">here</a>.Breaks will be open from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays through Sundays.You can also follow Breaks Eatery &amp; Bar on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557228286288">Facebook</a>.

Hays Whiskey Creek closes after 18 years, rebrands to Breaks Eatery & Bar 

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

After more than three decades of students with mental health and emotional issues in the Westside program, the district is considering changing its model.

Instead of students attending classes at Westside school, the Westside programs for high school students would be housed at Hays High School starting this fall.

When the change was presented to the Hays USD 489 school board on April 22, at least one member of the board expressed questions and concerns.

Currently, students who are able are bused to their home schools for at least part of the school day. The Westside program has 24 students in grades K-12, five of whom are high school students.

"Ninety-three percent of our 24 students have opportunities to be in their base buildings because we know that students need to be part of pro-social experiences," said Lindy McDaniel, assistant special education co-op director and Westside principal.

"When they are in a building by themselves, they aren't getting what they need."

&nbsp;McDaniel said students are losing much instruction time making the transitions, yet they still need time with their peers.

As it exists now, the program lacks many resources, including a school nurse and a library. Food has to be brought in from another school. The program also has about 35 buses in and out daily.

McDaniel said it is not an efficient use of resources.

This move to create what McDaniel called a school-within-a-school model comes as the Hays school district is completing work on a $143 million bond issue. A new high school is being built, and the current high school is being remodeled into a new middle school.

The Westisde students would have their own classroom within the high school in addition to the ability to attend classes with general education students.

Once the bond projects are completed, the Rockwell Administration Center and Westside School will be vacated and sold.

Once the bond construction is done, administrative offices will move into the former Wilson Elementary School building. Wilson will also house a portion of the Westside program, including some high school students who need more assistance.

"There will be some kids who just can't access our buildings, but what we know is the more that they can and the more they are able to, it's better for all involved," McDaniel said.

McDaniel said moving Westside students into their home schools was a part of the bond planning—one the additional space at the new schools can make a reality.

Westside students' access to the greater high school will be determined by the Westside program staff. The Westisde rooms will be accessed through a badge system.

McDaniel said times have changed since the Westside program was created in 1991.

"This provides a different opportunity. We need to think about it differently. We need to think of it as a community," she said.

She said the district has children entering kindergarten who don't know how to play and interact with others appropriately.

Sixteen percent of teens 12 to 17 had at least one major depressive episode in 2022.&nbsp;

Hays High has had students leave for acute or long-term psychiatrist treatment and immediately return to the general education population, which has 1,000 students.

She said she hopes the change will allow the district to serve more students and urge parents to allow their students to receive services through the program.

If a child has an emotional issue, they can be referred back to the school-within-a-school rooms without being bused back to Westside.

"This provides kids access so they can come and go as they need to," McDaniel said.

McDaniel said high school students in the Westside program can now access the grade-level curriculum. Previously, the program had to rely heavily on online programs.

Board member Jayme Goetz expressed concerns about the changes to the Westside program.

Goetz, a former Hays USD 498 teacher, said she worries about the children in the program receiving the support they need in the new model, especially in the elementary schools.

"I feel like it is splitting up the resources that are available to them," she said. "I'm in no way saying that I support seclusion."

"I also worry that it's going to put that extra stress on the general education teachers that already have growing class sizes and will have students who have new behavioral issues with trauma. ... Do we have a plan in place to remedy that?

"Twenty-four kids isn't a ton, but one kid with huge needs could be a downfall," she said.

McDaniel acknowledged that the co-op's resources will be stretched when and if the school-within-a-school model is expanded to elementary schools.

The co-op is offering a trauma-informed education book study to general education teachers this summer.

"I think this is work we owe to do if we are truly every student every day," McDaniel said.

Goetz said, "I think there is going to be a lot of stress because there is so much unknown. Open transparency of what is going to be available to [teachers] in terms of training and support, I think, would put a lot of that to rest and allow [teachers] to bring up questions that we haven't thought about."

She asked if students who were prone to outbursts and were unable to regulate their emotions would be placed in general education classrooms.

McDaniels said no. Those students would be in Westside classrooms full-time.

Goetz said she doesn't want the general education students to act out with fear and resentment if a student who is having behavior problems is placed in a general education classroom. She said she also wants to ensure teachers have the supports they need.

McDaniel said, "The reality is some of these kids are never going to have great behavior, but they need access to music, to STEM, to art, to things that are really going to help them."

Goetz said, "Overall, I think the intent is very good. I think the intent is to be an advocate for every student every day. I admire that. I just really think that it's very important that this is taken to the teachers for discussion. I think they need to be heard on it."

Kyle Carlin, special education co-op director, said the process will be discussed with the school leadership teams, and teacher education and feedback can happen through that process.

He said the co-op wants to learn from the high school's school-within-a-school model before finalizing any details for expanding the program to middle or elementary schools.

Shawn Henderson, Hays High School principal, said Westside is not a place; it's people.

"Those students are our students. They come and go all of the time," Hendersons said. "The question of what support we put behind this kid or that kid, we do that every day. I think for me, it is that they are our kids."

He said he thinks the new model will increase resources for students and teachers because they will be down the hall and not in another building.

"Right now, I think there are a lot of logistics that pull us apart," Henderson said.

Goetz said, "I just want to make sure we aren't piling too much on teachers' plates. It seems like we put on and put on, and they are all good things to put on, but if we aren't balancing that, then one more good thing for the students we all support could tip a teacher."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642524538587.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAfter more than three decades of students with mental health and emotional issues in the Westside program, the district is considering changing its model.Instead of students attending classes at Westside school, the Westside programs for high school students would be housed at Hays High School starting this fall.When the change was presented to the Hays USD 489 school board on April 22, at least one member of the board expressed questions and concerns.Currently, students who are able are bused to their home schools for at least part of the school day. The Westside program has 24 students in grades K-12, five of whom are high school students."Ninety-three percent of our 24 students have opportunities to be in their base buildings because we know that students need to be part of pro-social experiences," said Lindy McDaniel, assistant special education co-op director and Westside principal."When they are in a building by themselves, they aren't getting what they need."&nbsp;McDaniel said students are losing much instruction time making the transitions, yet they still need time with their peers.As it exists now, the program lacks many resources, including a school nurse and a library. Food has to be brought in from another school. The program also has about 35 buses in and out daily.McDaniel said it is not an efficient use of resources.This move to create what McDaniel called a school-within-a-school model comes as the Hays school district is completing work on a $143 million bond issue. A new high school is being built, and the current high school is being remodeled into a new middle school.The Westisde students would have their own classroom within the high school in addition to the ability to attend classes with general education students.Once the bond projects are completed, the Rockwell Administration Center and Westside School will be vacated and sold.Once the bond construction is done, administrative offices will move into the former Wilson Elementary School building. Wilson will also house a portion of the Westside program, including some high school students who need more assistance."There will be some kids who just can't access our buildings, but what we know is the more that they can and the more they are able to, it's better for all involved," McDaniel said.McDaniel said moving Westside students into their home schools was a part of the bond planning—one the additional space at the new schools can make a reality.Westside students' access to the greater high school will be determined by the Westside program staff. The Westisde rooms will be accessed through a badge system.McDaniel said times have changed since the Westside program was created in 1991."This provides a different opportunity. We need to think about it differently. We need to think of it as a community," she said.She said the district has children entering kindergarten who don't know how to play and interact with others appropriately.Sixteen percent of teens 12 to 17 had at least one major depressive episode in 2022.&nbsp;Hays High has had students leave for acute or long-term psychiatrist treatment and immediately return to the general education population, which has 1,000 students.She said she hopes the change will allow the district to serve more students and urge parents to allow their students to receive services through the program.If a child has an emotional issue, they can be referred back to the school-within-a-school rooms without being bused back to Westside."This provides kids access so they can come and go as they need to," McDaniel said.McDaniel said high school students in the Westside program can now access the grade-level curriculum. Previously, the program had to rely heavily on online programs.Board member Jayme Goetz expressed concerns about the changes to the Westside program.Goetz, a former Hays USD 498 teacher, said she worries about the children in the program receiving the support they need in the new model, especially in the elementary schools."I feel like it is splitting up the resources that are available to them," she said. "I'm in no way saying that I support seclusion.""I also worry that it's going to put that extra stress on the general education teachers that already have growing class sizes and will have students who have new behavioral issues with trauma. ... Do we have a plan in place to remedy that?"Twenty-four kids isn't a ton, but one kid with huge needs could be a downfall," she said.McDaniel acknowledged that the co-op's resources will be stretched when and if the school-within-a-school model is expanded to elementary schools.The co-op is offering a trauma-informed education book study to general education teachers this summer."I think this is work we owe to do if we are truly every student every day," McDaniel said.Goetz said, "I think there is going to be a lot of stress because there is so much unknown. Open transparency of what is going to be available to [teachers] in terms of training and support, I think, would put a lot of that to rest and allow [teachers] to bring up questions that we haven't thought about."She asked if students who were prone to outbursts and were unable to regulate their emotions would be placed in general education classrooms.McDaniels said no. Those students would be in Westside classrooms full-time.Goetz said she doesn't want the general education students to act out with fear and resentment if a student who is having behavior problems is placed in a general education classroom. She said she also wants to ensure teachers have the supports they need.McDaniel said, "The reality is some of these kids are never going to have great behavior, but they need access to music, to STEM, to art, to things that are really going to help them."Goetz said, "Overall, I think the intent is very good. I think the intent is to be an advocate for every student every day. I admire that. I just really think that it's very important that this is taken to the teachers for discussion. I think they need to be heard on it."Kyle Carlin, special education co-op director, said the process will be discussed with the school leadership teams, and teacher education and feedback can happen through that process.He said the co-op wants to learn from the high school's school-within-a-school model before finalizing any details for expanding the program to middle or elementary schools.Shawn Henderson, Hays High School principal, said Westside is not a place; it's people."Those students are our students. They come and go all of the time," Hendersons said. "The question of what support we put behind this kid or that kid, we do that every day. I think for me, it is that they are our kids."He said he thinks the new model will increase resources for students and teachers because they will be down the hall and not in another building."Right now, I think there are a lot of logistics that pull us apart," Henderson said.Goetz said, "I just want to make sure we aren't piling too much on teachers' plates. It seems like we put on and put on, and they are all good things to put on, but if we aren't balancing that, then one more good thing for the students we all support could tip a teacher."

Students with emotional issues to move into HHS; board member concerned

Drive for Cancer golf tourney set for June 14

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced 11 appointments and 2 reappointments to the following state boards and commissions.

KS Court of Appeals Nominating CommissionPurpose: To review and nominate candidates for appointment to the KS Court of Appeals.

Governor’s Residence Advisory BoardPurpose: To serve as an oversight board for the design and upkeep of Cedar Crest.

KS Commission for the Deaf and Hard of HearingPurpose: To advocate for and facilitate equal access to quality, coordinated and comprehensive services that enhance the quality of life for Kansans who are deaf and hard of hearing.

911 Coordinating CouncilPurpose: To monitor the delivery of 911 services, develop strategies for future enhancements to the 911 system and distribute available grant funds to Public Safety Answering Points.

Route 66 Centennial CommissionPurpose: To celebrate the centennial anniversary of Route 66 in 2026. The Commission is composed of representatives recommended by the governors of eight states traversed by Route 66, along with representatives recommended by the US Department of Transportation, and leadership of the US House and Senate.

Press ReleaseTOPEKA&nbsp;– Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced 11 appointments and 2 reappointments to the following state boards and commissions.KS Court of Appeals Nominating CommissionPurpose: To review and nominate candidates for appointment to the KS Court of Appeals.<ul>
 <li>Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp, Hays</li>
 </ul>Governor’s Residence Advisory BoardPurpose: To serve as an oversight board for the design and upkeep of Cedar Crest.<ul>
 <li>Will Lawrence, Governor’s Designee</li>
 </ul>KS Commission for the Deaf and Hard of HearingPurpose: To advocate for and facilitate equal access to quality, coordinated and comprehensive services that enhance the quality of life for Kansans who are deaf and hard of hearing.<ul>
 <li>Annette Caraway, Topeka</li><li>Lorrie Shank, Lansing</li><li>Leonard Hall, Olathe (reappointment)</li>
 </ul>911 Coordinating CouncilPurpose: To monitor the delivery of 911 services, develop strategies for future enhancements to the 911 system and distribute available grant funds to Public Safety Answering Points.<ul>
 <li>Kevin Irwin, Hutchinson</li><li>Andrea Davis, Colby</li><li>Jacqueline Brown, Alma (reappointment)</li><li>Darrell Atteberry, Bel Aire</li>
 </ul>Route 66 Centennial CommissionPurpose: To celebrate the centennial anniversary of Route 66 in 2026. The Commission is composed of representatives recommended by the governors of eight states traversed by Route 66, along with representatives recommended by the US Department of Transportation, and leadership of the US House and Senate.<ul>
 <li>Doug Gatewood, Galena</li><li>Jessica Walker, Galena</li><li>Mary Billington, Galena</li><li>Renee Charles, Galena</li>
 </ul>

Hays resident selected to court nominating commission

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

By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

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 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictThe environment in which we live, work, and play is more important than we realize. Studies show that the air we breathe, the buildings we reside in, and the neighborhoods we call home can impact physical and mental health. Some examples are glaring. Air pollutants, contaminated water, and chemical by-products can disrupt biological functions. Scientists suspect these can lead to serious health problems such as asthma, cancer, and Parkinson’s Disease.On the other hand, some environmental factors affect health in less obvious, beneficial ways. If you are familiar with the Blue Zones, you know that people of these regions maintain exceptional health. This is due to lifestyle choices inspired by the physical environment. What do I mean by this? People of the Blue Zones are surrounded by opportunities that make the healthy choice, the easy choice. Walking trails, vegetable gardens, green spaces, and intergenerational living arrangements are not just accessible, they are the norm. People of these regions live in an environment that influences them to walk to work, prepare healthy meals, unwind in nature, and create lasting relationships.As you can see, health is greatly influenced by the choices we make. And the choices we make depend largely on the environment we live in. For example, a cluttered area encourages people to leave trash behind. In fact, studies show that littering increases at these sites. Whereas, a well-kept area invites people to keep the space clean.Our physical environment also influences stress levels which impacts the body and how we make decisions. A person who lives in an urban area can experience chronic stress due to continuous noise. However, access to green spaces and quiet areas reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure, and improves sleep quality. In turn, this affects how the brain functions. When you have reduced levels of stress and good mental health, you are equipped to problem solve and to make new, healthy choices.The environment impacts our physical health and psychological well-being. It also influences our subconscious decisions. So, I challenge you to be aware of your ecological footprint and to advocate for a healthy environment. This can be done many ways. It can include the 3 R’s: reduce, reuse, and recycle, or it can simply be picking up trash in a parking lot. It can even be through system changes like supporting your community to build more sidewalks, parks, and bike lanes. To find more ideas visit: https://www.epa.gov/report-environment/what-you-can-doTogether we can all make the healthy choice, the easy choice.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

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