By&nbsp;MICHELLE GEERING KSU News Service

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;At a time when the number of early childhood care and education professionals does not meet demand, Kansas State University researchers and professional staff are working to rebuild the state's workforce. The Kansas Department for Children and Families has awarded more than $5 million in initial funding for a collaborative project involving K-State. The project will implement a multi-level career pathway, which serves as a tool and aspirational plan to guide current and interested members of the early childhood workforce to advancement opportunities. The career pathway is a primary component of the workforce development goal of the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://kschildrenscabinet.org/all-in-for-kansas-kids/strategic-plan/goal-6-workforce/" target="_blank">All In For Kansas Kids</a>&nbsp;strategic plan. The plan was developed with funding through the Preschool Development Grant to Kansas to the Kansas Children's Cabinet and Trust Fund. Bronwyn Fees, K-State professor of applied human sciences, serves as the principal investigator for Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities, or KCCTO, which is the organization that received the funding. KCCTO is&nbsp;a K-State-sponsored project that provides professional development and technical assistance to early childhood professionals across Kansas. The multiphase, multiyear plan coordinates with partnering agencies, organizations, associations, and secondary and post-secondary institutions to implement the competency-based career pathway. The project's first phase included assembling a steering committee representing a breadth and depth of expertise in early childhood care and education systems to develop an implementation plan for the career pathway. K-State's Office of Educational Innovation and Evaluation will evaluate the full implementation. "The early childhood career pathways initiative ensures the state expands the workforce needed to provide quality child care and education," said Fees, who also serves as associate dean for academic and faculty affairs in K-State's College of Health and Human Sciences. She is also a member of the state's Early Childhood Recommendations Panel. The project's second phase is underway and includes gathering industry and partner feedback, launching an awareness campaign, conducting a comprehensive workforce survey, developing a coaching/mentoring system, and engaging our secondary and post-secondary institutions in partnership with the non-credit-bearing professional development partners across the state. "It is essential to support well-trained professionals in early care and education for children and their families to thrive," said Fees. "Our state's economy relies on parents who are confident their children are experiencing the best possible care and education while they are at work or school." The lack of available child care spaces is a national issue that is affecting Kansas families, businesses and local economies.

According to&nbsp;<a href="https://ks.childcareaware.org/data-research/" target="_blank">Child Care Aware of Kansas</a>, Kansas has lost 1,952 child care openings since 2021. Additionally, available openings only meet demand 42% of the time. One of the primary barriers to filling these openings, however, is the lack of educators. "By working together with professional organizations and all higher education institutions in the state, individuals entering or already in the early childhood care and education workforce can easily identify how they are progressing," said Fees. "The coordinated training systems ensures a quality, well-trained workforce to meet demand." According to Fees, Kansas is developing an early childhood care and education registry system. The career pathway implementation plan will be coordinated with the development of a registry. Once live, it will allow early childhood care and education professionals to track the professional development courses, college credits earned and identify where they are and opportunities to advance on the career pathway. Patty Peschel, director of Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities, says this program has the potential for significant, positive effects on individuals in early child care careers and the children and families they support. "Whether an individual is new to the workforce, has several years of experience or is degree-seeking, the intent of the career pathway is to respect and acknowledge experience and education while ensuring access to advancement and success," said Peschel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691425943649.jpeg" alt="Kansas State University researchers are collaborating on a grant to rebuild the state's early childhood education workforce. The multiphase, multiyear plan coordinates with partnering agencies, organizations, associations, and secondary and post-secondary institutions to implement competency-based career pathways. Photo courtesy KSU" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University researchers are collaborating on a grant to rebuild the state's early childhood education workforce. The multiphase, multiyear plan coordinates with partnering agencies, organizations, associations, and secondary and post-secondary institutions to implement competency-based career pathways. Photo courtesy KSU</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;MICHELLE GEERING KSU News ServiceMANHATTAN —&nbsp;At a time when the number of early childhood care and education professionals does not meet demand, Kansas State University researchers and professional staff are working to rebuild the state's workforce. The Kansas Department for Children and Families has awarded more than $5 million in initial funding for a collaborative project involving K-State. The project will implement a multi-level career pathway, which serves as a tool and aspirational plan to guide current and interested members of the early childhood workforce to advancement opportunities. The career pathway is a primary component of the workforce development goal of the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://kschildrenscabinet.org/all-in-for-kansas-kids/strategic-plan/goal-6-workforce/" target="_blank">All In For Kansas Kids</a>&nbsp;strategic plan. The plan was developed with funding through the Preschool Development Grant to Kansas to the Kansas Children's Cabinet and Trust Fund. Bronwyn Fees, K-State professor of applied human sciences, serves as the principal investigator for Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities, or KCCTO, which is the organization that received the funding. KCCTO is&nbsp;a K-State-sponsored project that provides professional development and technical assistance to early childhood professionals across Kansas. The multiphase, multiyear plan coordinates with partnering agencies, organizations, associations, and secondary and post-secondary institutions to implement the competency-based career pathway. The project's first phase included assembling a steering committee representing a breadth and depth of expertise in early childhood care and education systems to develop an implementation plan for the career pathway. K-State's Office of Educational Innovation and Evaluation will evaluate the full implementation. "The early childhood career pathways initiative ensures the state expands the workforce needed to provide quality child care and education," said Fees, who also serves as associate dean for academic and faculty affairs in K-State's College of Health and Human Sciences. She is also a member of the state's Early Childhood Recommendations Panel. The project's second phase is underway and includes gathering industry and partner feedback, launching an awareness campaign, conducting a comprehensive workforce survey, developing a coaching/mentoring system, and engaging our secondary and post-secondary institutions in partnership with the non-credit-bearing professional development partners across the state. "It is essential to support well-trained professionals in early care and education for children and their families to thrive," said Fees. "Our state's economy relies on parents who are confident their children are experiencing the best possible care and education while they are at work or school." The lack of available child care spaces is a national issue that is affecting Kansas families, businesses and local economies. According to&nbsp;<a href="https://ks.childcareaware.org/data-research/" target="_blank">Child Care Aware of Kansas</a>, Kansas has lost 1,952 child care openings since 2021. Additionally, available openings only meet demand 42% of the time. One of the primary barriers to filling these openings, however, is the lack of educators. "By working together with professional organizations and all higher education institutions in the state, individuals entering or already in the early childhood care and education workforce can easily identify how they are progressing," said Fees. "The coordinated training systems ensures a quality, well-trained workforce to meet demand." According to Fees, Kansas is developing an early childhood care and education registry system. The career pathway implementation plan will be coordinated with the development of a registry. Once live, it will allow early childhood care and education professionals to track the professional development courses, college credits earned and identify where they are and opportunities to advance on the career pathway. Patty Peschel, director of Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities, says this program has the potential for significant, positive effects on individuals in early child care careers and the children and families they support. "Whether an individual is new to the workforce, has several years of experience or is degree-seeking, the intent of the career pathway is to respect and acknowledge experience and education while ensuring access to advancement and success," said Peschel.

K-State leads statewide project to rebuild early child care workforce 

Most folks generally accept that maintaining good health includes an annual visit to the doctor to check their heart, teeth, ears and more.

But Elaine Johannes, K-State Community Healthy Specialist, says there’s more to personal health than some may realize.

“The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has done quite a bit of research over the years that affirms that a little over 50% of our overall health is related to the places that we live, learn, work, play and pray,” said Johannes, the Kansas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University.

Research indicates that being engaged in one’s communities is connected to living longer. We should look for opportunities to be civically engaged, and be aware of opportunities to volunteer and be involved in clubs and organizations. That’s part of civic health.

According to Johannes, civic health reflects the opportunities people have to participate in their communities, and can be summed up in three areas:

· Places – Healthy communities have places where people can get together formally or informally, such as festivals in a city park; or a library with extended hours.

· Processes – Healthy communities make it easier for citizens to have their voices heard. Some examples: Are voting processes easily understood? Do citizens know what it takes to run for public office? Can people participate in meetings in-person and online?

· People – In healthy communities, people get involved as volunteers and in other roles. People are socially engaged.

When the social capital is in place – places, processes and people – the community is fairly strong. Then, the overall health of the people in the community goes up. And there’s research that supports that.

The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute annually publishes the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps for every county in the United States. The report combines data and evidence to support community-led efforts to improve health equity and community power. The yearly report includes links to information specific to Kansas counties, rating each according to such health outcomes as length of life and quality of life; and such health factors as adult smoking, obesity, physical activity and more.

The 2023 report includes information about the civic health of states and counties. Kansas is among 16 states that have more structural barriers to civic health.

Research shows that states with well-resourced civic infrastructure have more civic participation, which is tied to how well and how long we live.

To learn more regarding civic health tune into the weekly radio program, Sound Living, produced by K-State Research and Extension.

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.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379815245.png" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Most folks generally accept that maintaining good health includes an annual visit to the doctor to check their heart, teeth, ears and more.But Elaine Johannes, K-State Community Healthy Specialist, says there’s more to personal health than some may realize.“The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has done quite a bit of research over the years that affirms that a little over 50% of our overall health is related to the places that we live, learn, work, play and pray,” said Johannes, the Kansas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University.Research indicates that being engaged in one’s communities is connected to living longer. We should look for opportunities to be civically engaged, and be aware of opportunities to volunteer and be involved in clubs and organizations. That’s part of civic health.According to Johannes, civic health reflects the opportunities people have to participate in their communities, and can be summed up in three areas:· Places – Healthy communities have places where people can get together formally or informally, such as festivals in a city park; or a library with extended hours.· Processes – Healthy communities make it easier for citizens to have their voices heard. Some examples: Are voting processes easily understood? Do citizens know what it takes to run for public office? Can people participate in meetings in-person and online?· People – In healthy communities, people get involved as volunteers and in other roles. People are socially engaged.When the social capital is in place – places, processes and people – the community is fairly strong. Then, the overall health of the people in the community goes up. And there’s research that supports that.The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute annually publishes the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps for every county in the United States. The report combines data and evidence to support community-led efforts to improve health equity and community power. The yearly report includes links to information specific to Kansas counties, rating each according to such health outcomes as length of life and quality of life; and such health factors as adult smoking, obesity, physical activity and more.The 2023 report includes information about the civic health of states and counties. Kansas is among 16 states that have more structural barriers to civic health.Research shows that states with well-resourced civic infrastructure have more civic participation, which is tied to how well and how long we live.To learn more regarding civic health tune into the weekly radio program, Sound Living, produced by K-State Research and Extension.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.&nbsp;

WINKEL: Community Health Boosts Personal Health

<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/2023/9/1693597632522.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

The Hays High Indians open the 2023 season on the road Friday night in Junction City against the Blue Jays.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/ppv/595451">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.&nbsp; &nbsp;

You can also listen to the Indians all season long on 96.9 KFIX or online <a href="https://kfix.com/">HERE</a>.

The Hays High Indians open the 2023 season on the road Friday night in Junction City against the Blue Jays.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/ppv/595451">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.&nbsp; &nbsp;Kickoff set for 7 p.m.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595451?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>You can also listen to the Indians all season long on 96.9 KFIX or online <a href="https://kfix.com/">HERE</a>.

🏈🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays High Indians at Junction City

The TMP-Marian Monarchs kick off the 2023 season at home Friday night against the Oakley Plainsmen at Lewis Field.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/ppv/595452">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; You can also listen to the Monarchs all season long on 99.5 KHAZ or online&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">HERE</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The TMP-Marian Monarchs kick off the 2023 season at home Friday night against the Oakley Plainsmen at Lewis Field.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/ppv/595452">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/595452?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>&nbsp; You can also listen to the Monarchs all season long on 99.5 KHAZ or online&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">HERE</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈🎥 WATCH LIVE - Thomas More Prep-Marian vs Oakley

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University Assistant Provost for Academic Programs and Dean of the Graduate School and Office of Scholarship &amp; Sponsored Projects Angela Pool-Funai.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/I9p2sdFA-dc?si=I54MyAF58q6GQFls" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University Assistant Provost for Academic Programs and Dean of the Graduate School and Office of Scholarship &amp; Sponsored Projects Angela Pool-Funai.

🎤 Forward Ever: FHSU assistant provost Angela Pool-Funai

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

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MDEuODIwMDU2NDEifQ.n1tybSl8fV7a9IrJHf69G3ABlu_l-AFk0QjHVYv0Ijw/s/1305913623/br/225211713277-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

The state of Kansas recognizes three advisory levels:&nbsp;

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

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

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

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

During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;

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

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

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

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292Lzc3Ny9IYXJtZnVsLUFsZ2FsLUJsb29tcz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTAxLjgyMDA1NjQxIn0.3lTncxedPt18YVUiTcZ6H31nKXEGwSgnvcoXQY1AfL0/s/1305913623/br/225211713277-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3RvcnltYXBzLmFyY2dpcy5jb20vc3Rvcmllcy9jMDcwYzgwNTkyOTM0NzMwODM0YzE5NDI4MDMwMGVjYj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTAxLjgyMDA1NjQxIn0.TauH6TELhCETd6YlirF2CEgkCXXDw1XYO1AbCD5Wvm8/s/1305913623/br/225211713277-l" target="_blank">interactive story</a>.

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have issued a public health advisory update due to blue-green algae.&nbsp;A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MDEuODIwMDU2NDEifQ.n1tybSl8fV7a9IrJHf69G3ABlu_l-AFk0QjHVYv0Ijw/s/1305913623/br/225211713277-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.<h2>Active Advisories&nbsp;</h2>Warning&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Ellis City Lake, Ellis County (Added September 1)&nbsp;</li><li>Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County</li><li>Lake Afton, Sedgwick County&nbsp;</li><li>Lovewell Lake, Jewell County&nbsp;</li><li>Rock Garden Pond, Shawnee County&nbsp;</li><li>South Lake (Overland Park), Johnson County&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Watch&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Augusta Santa Fe Lake, Butler County (Lowered September 1)</li><li>Fossil Lake, Russell County&nbsp;</li><li>Jeffrey Energy Center Make Up Lake, Pottawatomie County&nbsp;</li><li>Lake Parsons, Neosho County</li><li>Melvern Outlet River Pond, Osage County&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Lifted<ul>
 <li>River Pond (Tuttle Creek State Park), Pottawatomie and Riley County (Lifted September 1)</li>
 </ul>The state of Kansas recognizes three advisory levels:&nbsp;A&nbsp;Hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist. &nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.</li><li>In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.</li><li>When partial closures (i.e., beach or cove) are issued, the remaining lake or zone area will carry a warning status.</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. &nbsp;Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.&nbsp;When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.</li><li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock. &nbsp;</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans. &nbsp;</li><li>Water contact should be avoided. &nbsp;</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded. &nbsp;</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried algae. &nbsp;</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible. &nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation. &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>A&nbsp;Watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.&nbsp;During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.&nbsp;</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.&nbsp;</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.&nbsp;</li><li>Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels&nbsp;below&nbsp;the Watch thresholds.KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions. &nbsp;If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.&nbsp;For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292Lzc3Ny9IYXJtZnVsLUFsZ2FsLUJsb29tcz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTAxLjgyMDA1NjQxIn0.3lTncxedPt18YVUiTcZ6H31nKXEGwSgnvcoXQY1AfL0/s/1305913623/br/225211713277-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vc3RvcnltYXBzLmFyY2dpcy5jb20vc3Rvcmllcy9jMDcwYzgwNTkyOTM0NzMwODM0YzE5NDI4MDMwMGVjYj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTAxLjgyMDA1NjQxIn0.TauH6TELhCETd6YlirF2CEgkCXXDw1XYO1AbCD5Wvm8/s/1305913623/br/225211713277-l" target="_blank">interactive story</a>.

2 area lakes under warning for blue green algae

GREAT BEND — State Rep. Tory Marie Blew has filed to represent state Senate District 33.&nbsp; Blew, a Great Bend Republican, currently represents House District 112 in the Kansas Legislature, where she’s served since 2017. She now seeks to represent district 33 in the Kansas Senate.

“I am a consistent, common-sense conservative. I want to find solutions for the challenges rural communities face,” Blew said. “That’s one thing I’ve fought for my entire time in the Legislature – making sure western Kansas is a part of every conversation.”

As a state representative, Blew consistently voted to slash government regulations and lower the tax burden rural businesses and families face. She helped spearhead legislation that eliminated some of the red tape that made it difficult for childcare operators to open or stay in business. After a period of decline, available childcare slots are increasing.

Blew also helped appropriate necessary funding for a renovation of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation laboratory in Great Bend. The renovation utilized unspent American Rescue Plan Act funding for the upgrades. The federal funding limited costs to local and state taxpayers.

Currently, Blew serves on the Rural Judicial Initiative committee, tasked with recruiting attorneys to rural Kansas. Blew hosted the committee members at a Great Bend meet-and-greet last week.

In the Senate, Blew plans to continue to fight for western Kansas families by focusing on rural access to quality, affordable childcare, critical services, and housing.

“I’m recently married and eager to raise a family of my own. I want to see western Kansas, and specifically our area thrive, because I want my family to have the same opportunities and sense of community I had growing up here,” Blew said.

Tory Marie Blew announced her first run for the state legislature while a senior at Fort Hays State University. She was the youngest member of the Kansas Legislature from 2017 to 2021. She is a former Kansas Young Republicans chair and currently serves as the Kansas Young Republicans National Committeewoman. She also serves as the co-Chair of the Kansas Future Caucus under the Millennial Action Project.&nbsp;

Blew holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Education from FHSU and previously worked as a teacher. Today, she is the Human Resources Director for the family business, Pryor Automatic Fire Sprinkler.

She is a Great Bend native. Blew married her husband, Justin Blew, in 2020.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610465562955.jpeg" alt="Tory Marie Blew" />
 <figcaption>Tory Marie Blew</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedGREAT BEND — State Rep. Tory Marie Blew has filed to represent state Senate District 33.&nbsp; Blew, a Great Bend Republican, currently represents House District 112 in the Kansas Legislature, where she’s served since 2017. She now seeks to represent district 33 in the Kansas Senate.“I am a consistent, common-sense conservative. I want to find solutions for the challenges rural communities face,” Blew said. “That’s one thing I’ve fought for my entire time in the Legislature – making sure western Kansas is a part of every conversation.”As a state representative, Blew consistently voted to slash government regulations and lower the tax burden rural businesses and families face. She helped spearhead legislation that eliminated some of the red tape that made it difficult for childcare operators to open or stay in business. After a period of decline, available childcare slots are increasing.Blew also helped appropriate necessary funding for a renovation of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation laboratory in Great Bend. The renovation utilized unspent American Rescue Plan Act funding for the upgrades. The federal funding limited costs to local and state taxpayers.Currently, Blew serves on the Rural Judicial Initiative committee, tasked with recruiting attorneys to rural Kansas. Blew hosted the committee members at a Great Bend meet-and-greet last week.In the Senate, Blew plans to continue to fight for western Kansas families by focusing on rural access to quality, affordable childcare, critical services, and housing.“I’m recently married and eager to raise a family of my own. I want to see western Kansas, and specifically our area thrive, because I want my family to have the same opportunities and sense of community I had growing up here,” Blew said.<h2>About Tory Marie Blew&nbsp;</h2>Tory Marie Blew announced her first run for the state legislature while a senior at Fort Hays State University. She was the youngest member of the Kansas Legislature from 2017 to 2021. She is a former Kansas Young Republicans chair and currently serves as the Kansas Young Republicans National Committeewoman. She also serves as the co-Chair of the Kansas Future Caucus under the Millennial Action Project.&nbsp;Blew holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Education from FHSU and previously worked as a teacher. Today, she is the Human Resources Director for the family business, Pryor Automatic Fire Sprinkler.She is a Great Bend native. Blew married her husband, Justin Blew, in 2020.

FHSU alumna seeks Kansas Senate seat

Beginning this upcoming school year, Hays Post will charge a fee to watch the video streams for Hays High School and Thomas More Prep-Marian sports.

We realize that our streams have been free for years, but equipment updates and finding personnel to run the broadcasts come at a cost. &nbsp;

Starting in September there will be a $10 fee per game or you can purchase a school-year pass for each school for only $100. A MEGA PASS for $175 is also an option. This will get you access to both schools' sporting events for the full school year.

Some schools TMP and HHS will play will not allow streaming. Eagle will still offer a minimum of 30 games for each school.

To sign up, click&nbsp;<a href="https://team1sports.com/eagleradio/purchase/">https://team1sports.com/eagleradio/purchase/</a>.

Once on the site, select&nbsp; Hays High/TMP MEGA PASS - 2023-2024 Season -&nbsp;$175&nbsp; [<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/purchase/accesspass/7622">Purchase</a>] Hays High 2023-2024 Pass -&nbsp;$100&nbsp; [<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/purchase/accesspass/7098">Purchase</a>]&nbsp; TMP-Marian 2023-2024 Pass -&nbsp;$100&nbsp; [<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/purchase/accesspass/7099">Purchase</a>] Hays High - Single Game Access: $10 TMP - Single Game Access: $10

Football, boys and girls basketball, and select baseball and softball for both schools will be offered.

The games can be streamed on Smart phones, tablets, computers or Smart TVs.

Eagle is very proud to give a portion of the proceeds back to each school’s athletic departments. &nbsp;

As always, you can still listen to each school’s athletic events free of charge on Eagle radio stations.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667647751865.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostBeginning this upcoming school year, Hays Post will charge a fee to watch the video streams for Hays High School and Thomas More Prep-Marian sports.We realize that our streams have been free for years, but equipment updates and finding personnel to run the broadcasts come at a cost. &nbsp;Starting in September there will be a $10 fee per game or you can purchase a school-year pass for each school for only $100. A MEGA PASS for $175 is also an option. This will get you access to both schools' sporting events for the full school year.Some schools TMP and HHS will play will not allow streaming. Eagle will still offer a minimum of 30 games for each school.To sign up, click&nbsp;<a href="https://team1sports.com/eagleradio/purchase/">https://team1sports.com/eagleradio/purchase/</a>.Once on the site, select&nbsp; Hays High/TMP MEGA PASS - 2023-2024 Season -&nbsp;$175&nbsp; [<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/purchase/accesspass/7622">Purchase</a>] Hays High 2023-2024 Pass -&nbsp;$100&nbsp; [<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/purchase/accesspass/7098">Purchase</a>]&nbsp; TMP-Marian 2023-2024 Pass -&nbsp;$100&nbsp; [<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/purchase/accesspass/7099">Purchase</a>] Hays High - Single Game Access: $10 TMP - Single Game Access: $10Football, boys and girls basketball, and select baseball and softball for both schools will be offered.The games can be streamed on Smart phones, tablets, computers or Smart TVs.Eagle is very proud to give a portion of the proceeds back to each school’s athletic departments. &nbsp;As always, you can still listen to each school’s athletic events free of charge on Eagle radio stations.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sign up for new HHS, TMP streaming service; donations to go to schools

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

DODGE CITY—Despite significantly higher rates of suicide among rural residents, mental health resources in rural Kansas continue to be lacking, panelists in Dodge City said last week.

A panel sponsored by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, also known as NAMI, met in Dodge City to discuss the challenges of rural mental health.

People in rural areas are 64 to 68 percent more likely to die by suicide than people in urban areas, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

The panel was asked what they saw as challenges to providing mental health services in western Kansas.

Itzel Moya of NAMI Southwest Kansas grew up in a Spanish-speaking home and said Kansas has a lack of services and education materials in Spanish.

"We have more providers who speak Spanish compared to when I was growing up, but it could be better," she said.

A clergy member from Garden City said 45 languages are spoken in that community, and it's impossible to fully address all the needs of so many diverse cultures.

"There's not a culture of southwest Kansas. There's a multitude of cultures in southwest Kansas," he said.

Eric Van Allen of CareSource, a lifelong western Kansas resident, said he had concerns about social isolation. Young people, including his own children, experienced significant isolation during the pandemic.

"Farmers spend hours and hours on tractors in their own thoughts. They are represented in high suicide rates. Those are some of the challenges we face. I don’t think we have all of the solutions, and that's why I think this room is so powerful."

Brian Hastings, farmer/rancher and NAMI Kansas board member, said western Kansas service providers have to cover many miles and have too much to do.

"We talk about burnout among farmers and ranchers, but medical providers are having their issues, too," he said. "Money is also a big issue. Money flows from Topeka. It flows about the same as our river flows in Dodge City. It doesn't."

High Plains Mental Health is the community mental health provider for Ellis County. It also services 19 other counties in northwest Kansas, including&nbsp;Cheyenne, Decatur, Gove, Graham, Logan, Ness, Norton, Osborne, Phillips, Rawlins, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Thomas, Trego and Wallace counties.

Farmers and ranchers are very independent, and convincing them to seek mental health services can be difficult, Hastings said.

"He may not know why his buddy is drinking so much beer.&nbsp;It used to be you only drank beer after 6 o'clock.  Now they're drinking beer at 8 and 9 o'clock and filling up coolers and going out to the fields. It's a problem. It's depression," he said.

Chuck Strand of Rural Minds, a national non-profit, said self-reliance can be a challenge and an opportunity.

"Someone mentioned the challenge of people in rural communities being very self-reliant and do-it-yourself," Strand said. "That mindset can be necessary to survive and thrive in rural communities, but it can be a real challenge when that mindset is driving a response to a mental health challenge or a potential mental illness."

<a href="https://www.ruralminds.org/">Rural Minds</a> offers the information and resources so people can do it themselves, he said.

Rural communities have a lack of access to both mental and physical health providers, Strand said. Telehealth has filled some of that gap. However, 30 percent of rural homes don't have access to reliable internet access.

Sim Wimbush, panelist from Anthem Health, said transportation is an ongoing challenge for many rural residents. Because the public health emergency sparked by the pandemic has ended, some insurance companies are no longer allowing mental health assessments to be done through telemedicine.

A man from Hill City who was attending the conference ran into this roadblock. He and his family just moved to western Kansas from Lindsborg. He had hoped to continue to use his current providers through telemedicine. However, Medicare said he could not. Now, the family has to find a new provider.

In rural areas, clients may have to drive an hour or more to drive to a location where they can have a mental health appointment in person.

Inpatient mental health beds in western Kansas continue to be lacking. Gov. Kelly has placed a focus on increasing inpatient services on a state level, and a new facility is under construction in Wichita.

Western Kansas is primarily served by the state hospital in Larned, but it has not been open to its state-licensed capacity since the onset of the pandemic.

"Wichita is three and a half hours away from us," Rachel Clews, moderator from K-State Extension, said. "We know it's successful when families are a part of the healing process. If a family has transportation problems and can't get there, it's a detriment to the people who need served."

Hastings said he would like to see more beds opened in western Kansas. In lieu of a new inpatient facility, an alternative could be regional crisis stabilization units. This would be a step down from inpatient care and be available for clients who need shorter-term stays.

Funding continues to be an obstacle. Services are available for people who receive Medicare and Medicaid, but many of the clients who need crisis intervention are not Medicaid-eligible.

The group discussed the need to recruit more people to work in mental health professions.&nbsp;Student loan forgiveness could help recruit more people in the field, panelists said. Mental health professionals are required to have high levels of education but don't earn as much as medical professionals.

Lay people also can receive mental health first aid training, which is available through High Plains Mental Health Center.

"We need to normalize the conversation," Van Allen said.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ed7f0fae-f1d1-4a9e-ad68-5b9ae8ef4fc2">RELATED STORY: 988 Crisis, Suicide Lifeline fills gap in rural Kansas but has limitations</a>

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

NAMI Golden Plains, which serves Ellis, Graham, Lane, Ness, Rooks, Rush and Trego counties, can be reached at namigoldenplains@kansas.org or 785-214-4538 or follow them on Facebook&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NAMIGoldenPlains">at facebook.com/NAMIGoldenPlains</a>

A combined NAMI Golden Plains Connection and Family Support Group, which is for people with a mental illness or who have family members with a mental illness, meets the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Oak Plaza, 103C E. 27th St., Hays.

NOTE:&nbsp;&nbsp;The NAMI Golden Plains Connection Support Group is now offered as a hybrid/in-person meeting as desired. Contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:namigoldenplains@gmail.org" target="_blank">namigoldenplains@namikansas.org</a>&nbsp;if you wish to attend by Zoom.

NAMI campus FHSU&nbsp;meets at 3:30 p.m. every other Wednesday in Rarick Hall, room 107. The next meeting is Sept. 6.

<a href="https://afsp.org/">American Society for Suicide Prevention</a>

<a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/">National Institute of Mental Health</a>&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/">Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration</a>

High Plains Independence—Social and peer support, 1200 Canterbury, Hays, KS, 785-621-4188

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693425168292.jpg" alt="Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay." />
 <figcaption>Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693324294722.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDODGE CITY—Despite significantly higher rates of suicide among rural residents, mental health resources in rural Kansas continue to be lacking, panelists in Dodge City said last week.A panel sponsored by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, also known as NAMI, met in Dodge City to discuss the challenges of rural mental health.People in rural areas are 64 to 68 percent more likely to die by suicide than people in urban areas, according to the Centers for Disease Control.The panel was asked what they saw as challenges to providing mental health services in western Kansas.Itzel Moya of NAMI Southwest Kansas grew up in a Spanish-speaking home and said Kansas has a lack of services and education materials in Spanish."We have more providers who speak Spanish compared to when I was growing up, but it could be better," she said.A clergy member from Garden City said 45 languages are spoken in that community, and it's impossible to fully address all the needs of so many diverse cultures."There's not a culture of southwest Kansas. There's a multitude of cultures in southwest Kansas," he said.Eric Van Allen of CareSource, a lifelong western Kansas resident, said he had concerns about social isolation. Young people, including his own children, experienced significant isolation during the pandemic."Farmers spend hours and hours on tractors in their own thoughts. They are represented in high suicide rates. Those are some of the challenges we face. I don’t think we have all of the solutions, and that's why I think this room is so powerful."Brian Hastings, farmer/rancher and NAMI Kansas board member, said western Kansas service providers have to cover many miles and have too much to do."We talk about burnout among farmers and ranchers, but medical providers are having their issues, too," he said. "Money is also a big issue. Money flows from Topeka. It flows about the same as our river flows in Dodge City. It doesn't."High Plains Mental Health is the community mental health provider for Ellis County. It also services 19 other counties in northwest Kansas, including&nbsp;Cheyenne, Decatur, Gove, Graham, Logan, Ness, Norton, Osborne, Phillips, Rawlins, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Thomas, Trego and Wallace counties.Farmers and ranchers are very independent, and convincing them to seek mental health services can be difficult, Hastings said."He may not know why his buddy is drinking so much beer.&nbsp;It used to be you only drank beer after 6 o'clock. Now they're drinking beer at 8 and 9 o'clock and filling up coolers and going out to the fields. It's a problem. It's depression," he said.Connections are not being made, he said.Chuck Strand of Rural Minds, a national non-profit, said self-reliance can be a challenge and an opportunity."Someone mentioned the challenge of people in rural communities being very self-reliant and do-it-yourself," Strand said. "That mindset can be necessary to survive and thrive in rural communities, but it can be a real challenge when that mindset is driving a response to a mental health challenge or a potential mental illness."<a href="https://www.ruralminds.org/">Rural Minds</a> offers the information and resources so people can do it themselves, he said.Rural communities have a lack of access to both mental and physical health providers, Strand said. Telehealth has filled some of that gap. However, 30 percent of rural homes don't have access to reliable internet access.Sim Wimbush, panelist from Anthem Health, said transportation is an ongoing challenge for many rural residents. Because the public health emergency sparked by the pandemic has ended, some insurance companies are no longer allowing mental health assessments to be done through telemedicine.A man from Hill City who was attending the conference ran into this roadblock. He and his family just moved to western Kansas from Lindsborg. He had hoped to continue to use his current providers through telemedicine. However, Medicare said he could not. Now, the family has to find a new provider.In rural areas, clients may have to drive an hour or more to drive to a location where they can have a mental health appointment in person.Inpatient mental health beds in western Kansas continue to be lacking. Gov. Kelly has placed a focus on increasing inpatient services on a state level, and a new facility is under construction in Wichita.Western Kansas is primarily served by the state hospital in Larned, but it has not been open to its state-licensed capacity since the onset of the pandemic."Wichita is three and a half hours away from us," Rachel Clews, moderator from K-State Extension, said. "We know it's successful when families are a part of the healing process. If a family has transportation problems and can't get there, it's a detriment to the people who need served."Hastings said he would like to see more beds opened in western Kansas. In lieu of a new inpatient facility, an alternative could be regional crisis stabilization units. This would be a step down from inpatient care and be available for clients who need shorter-term stays.Funding continues to be an obstacle. Services are available for people who receive Medicare and Medicaid, but many of the clients who need crisis intervention are not Medicaid-eligible.The group discussed the need to recruit more people to work in mental health professions.&nbsp;Student loan forgiveness could help recruit more people in the field, panelists said. Mental health professionals are required to have high levels of education but don't earn as much as medical professionals.Lay people also can receive mental health first aid training, which is available through High Plains Mental Health Center."We need to normalize the conversation," Van Allen said.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/ed7f0fae-f1d1-4a9e-ad68-5b9ae8ef4fc2">RELATED STORY: 988 Crisis, Suicide Lifeline fills gap in rural Kansas but has limitations</a><h2>Other resources</h2>National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)NAMI Golden Plains, which serves Ellis, Graham, Lane, Ness, Rooks, Rush and Trego counties, can be reached at namigoldenplains@kansas.org or 785-214-4538 or follow them on Facebook&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NAMIGoldenPlains">at facebook.com/NAMIGoldenPlains</a>A combined NAMI Golden Plains Connection and Family Support Group, which is for people with a mental illness or who have family members with a mental illness, meets the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Oak Plaza, 103C E. 27th St., Hays.NOTE:&nbsp;&nbsp;The NAMI Golden Plains Connection Support Group is now offered as a hybrid/in-person meeting as desired. Contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:namigoldenplains@gmail.org" target="_blank">namigoldenplains@namikansas.org</a>&nbsp;if you wish to attend by Zoom.NAMI campus FHSU&nbsp;meets at 3:30 p.m. every other Wednesday in Rarick Hall, room 107. The next meeting is Sept. 6.<a href="https://afsp.org/">American Society for Suicide Prevention</a><a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/">National Institute of Mental Health</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/">Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration</a>High Plains Independence—Social and peer support, 1200 Canterbury, Hays, KS, 785-621-4188

Panel: Western Kansas communities continue to lack mental health resources

Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Hays Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau is hosting a free Kite Show for the community on Sunday, September 10 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, 1376 U.S. Hwy. 183 Bypass.

This family-friendly event will feature the spectacular giant kite displays of Great American Kites &amp; Events featuring some of the world’s largest kites.

<a>Great American Kites &amp; Events, based out of Missouri, produces events all over the country, and owner Sean Beaver has a connection to Hays.</a>

“My wife Stephany (Rosenholtz) attended TMP and Hays High School,” said Beaver, “and we are both really excited to be back in Hays for the occasion.”

Some might remember this event on the schedule in 2022. Unfortunately, the lack of wind prevented many of the kites from fully lifting in the air.

“We’re confident this year will be a success,”&nbsp;said Brittney Squire, Marketing Manager at the Hays CVB. “Even if there is no wind, there are so many great partners who will be out to help celebrate the end of the summer season.”

Communities hosting the Great American Kites &amp; Events are encouraged to have other activities for attendees.

Several food trucks are confirmed to be at the event including Taco Riendo, Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress, TK’s BBQ Wagon, and Snow Cone Express. These vendors will set up in the sports complex parking lot. Attendees are also encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, coolers, and drinks into the sports complex, but glass bottles are not allowed. Pets on leashes are allowed at the complex, but owners must clean up after their pets.

Other activities include yard games sponsored by Big Brothers Big Sisters Serving Ellis County, the bookmobile courtesy of the Hays Public Library, live animals from the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, and face painting by the TMP-Marian Cheer Squad.

For details and updates on this event, check the Community Events calendar at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.visithays.com/">www.VisitHays.com</a>&nbsp;or search Facebook for the event “Hays Prairie Winds Kite Show.”

Great American Kites &amp; Events, LLC specializes in producing, planning, and managing the most astonishing outdoor giant kite displays, festivals, and colorful community entertainment experiences. We have over 15 years of amazing giant kite flying experiences, unique aerial displays, and magical once in a lifetime experiences all through the wonder of kites. Our displays will engrave incredible memories for people of all ages.

Vision: To bring people together and create stronger communities through the extraordinary wonder of giant kites.

Mission: Inspired by our love of community, we provide amazing giant kite festival performances, incomparable events and a dynamic fun family experience which create a sense of discovery and community. We help people, families, and communities take flight.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777241.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Convention and Visitors BureauThe Hays Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau is hosting a free Kite Show for the community on Sunday, September 10 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, 1376 U.S. Hwy. 183 Bypass.This family-friendly event will feature the spectacular giant kite displays of Great American Kites &amp; Events featuring some of the world’s largest kites.<a>Great American Kites &amp; Events, based out of Missouri, produces events all over the country, and owner Sean Beaver has a connection to Hays.</a>“My wife Stephany (Rosenholtz) attended TMP and Hays High School,” said Beaver, “and we are both really excited to be back in Hays for the occasion.”Some might remember this event on the schedule in 2022. Unfortunately, the lack of wind prevented many of the kites from fully lifting in the air.“We’re confident this year will be a success,”&nbsp;said Brittney Squire, Marketing Manager at the Hays CVB. “Even if there is no wind, there are so many great partners who will be out to help celebrate the end of the summer season.”Communities hosting the Great American Kites &amp; Events are encouraged to have other activities for attendees.Several food trucks are confirmed to be at the event including Taco Riendo, Mijom's Ice Cream Xpress, TK’s BBQ Wagon, and Snow Cone Express. These vendors will set up in the sports complex parking lot. Attendees are also encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, coolers, and drinks into the sports complex, but glass bottles are not allowed. Pets on leashes are allowed at the complex, but owners must clean up after their pets.Other activities include yard games sponsored by Big Brothers Big Sisters Serving Ellis County, the bookmobile courtesy of the Hays Public Library, live animals from the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, and face painting by the TMP-Marian Cheer Squad.For details and updates on this event, check the Community Events calendar at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.visithays.com/">www.VisitHays.com</a>&nbsp;or search Facebook for the event “Hays Prairie Winds Kite Show.”<h2>About Great American Kites &amp; Events</h2>Great American Kites &amp; Events, LLC specializes in producing, planning, and managing the most astonishing outdoor giant kite displays, festivals, and colorful community entertainment experiences. We have over 15 years of amazing giant kite flying experiences, unique aerial displays, and magical once in a lifetime experiences all through the wonder of kites. Our displays will engrave incredible memories for people of all ages.Vision: To bring people together and create stronger communities through the extraordinary wonder of giant kites.Mission: Inspired by our love of community, we provide amazing giant kite festival performances, incomparable events and a dynamic fun family experience which create a sense of discovery and community. We help people, families, and communities take flight.

CVB celebrates end of summer with Hays Prairie Winds Kite Show

Editor’s note: Fieldwork provides invaluable insights about real-world environments and processes, expanding and reinforcing what researchers learn in classrooms, labs and collections. KU faculty, staff and students across a spectrum of disciplines are taking their inquiry directly to rivers, prairies, dig sites, glaciers, islands, burial grounds and more this summer. Through the #KUFieldWorks series, we'll join them on their adventures.

Q&amp;A with Dianna Krejsa, Mammals Collection Manager

LAWRENCE — More than 100 years ago, a field crew from KU's Biodiversity Institute &amp; Natural History Museum journeyed through a unique mix of Kansas counties to document the mammals, birds, amphibians and wildlife flourishing in those environments. Now Dianna Krejsa and her team are retracing their steps to evaluate changes in multiple Kansas ecosystems.&nbsp;

What methods, approaches, experiments, etc. are you using?

In our current in-state field activities, we are conducting work supported by state grant funds to survey Kansas species. Our fieldwork is structured by resurveying sites that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Birds-Bones-Beetles.../dp/0700627731">Charles Bunker</a>, a curator of the KU Natural History Museum in the early 1900s, visited in 1911 and 1912.

These unique locales and habitats included the Gypsum Hills of southern Kansas (Clark, Comanche and Barber counties), the desert and shortgrass prairie of west-central Kansas (Trego and Stafford counties), the high plains of far western Kansas (Cheyenne, Wallace and Hamilton counties), and mixed oak-hickory woodlands of eastern Kansas (Doniphan, Woodson, Greenwood and Cherokee counties.

Our resurvey — more than 100 years later — is producing important new county records and helps inform wildlife managers of the conservation status of certain species, provides data on population cycles and fluctuations, and serves as a new baseline for future examinations of change through time. 

Our methods for surveying and collecting are not dissimilar to Bunker’s, so our group is able to replicate the work and effort he and his field crew put in to getting the records they did, and we can compare them to species diversity and abundances found today. 

These surveys include mammals, birds and herpetofauna (amphibians and reptiles), and each resurvey at a given county site generates a short report of species found there that can be used by wildlife managers as well as private landowners in the area.

Why does your study matter to your field or for society?

We are providing new data on Kansas native species that will be used to look backward — to examine changes in the last 100 years — as well as to serve as a baseline for changes in the next 50 to 100 years. What can new hybridization dynamics among birds tell us about encroachment of eastern species on western ones? Are some species getting sequestered to “islands” of ideal habitat, where they are no longer able to disperse and add to their species-wide gene pool? Or are previously rare or imperiled species stabilizing or growing? We’re helping to add to those datasets and work with state agencies and landowners who are invested in our natural resources.&nbsp;

What do you enjoy most about being in the field?

I enjoy being in the field because, of course, it involves getting back into nature — and that is why many of us entered a field like biology, natural resources management or conservation: a love for the outdoors and wonders of the natural world. I also love the near-constant business of fieldwork — that there is always something to work on next. And with the camaraderie of good colleagues and new students getting to experience fieldwork for the first time, there is nearly limitless energy among us.

What are some memorable (funny, scary, surprising, etc.) moments from the field?

Each day walking a trapline or driving to survey is going to be full of surprises — you don’t know what you’ll see on the landscape. One evening survey, we stopped the vehicle to get a better look at a jackrabbit, angling the headlights for a better view. In doing so, we happened to catch sight of a striped skunk walking into the brush. Then, when we got out binoculars to have a closer look, the rabbit and skunk were gone but new eye shine on the hillside proved to be a badger. Who can ask for a better evening drive?

When is fieldwork frustrating, challenging or overwhelming?

The only thing that can stop a good field experience in its tracks is lack of food or coffee. Make sure the crew is well-fed and caffeinated as needed, and the rest will fall into place. Regardless of frustrating moments or challenges, nearly everyone looks back on their time in the field fondly (perhaps after they’ve had a shower and nap after returning home).

How does fieldwork complement the work you do elsewhere?

Fieldwork is how we build collections at the Biodiversity Institute, and those collections are at the root of our research efforts and student involvement. To remain relevant, a natural history collection must be dynamic and adaptive in its methodologies (being perceptive to current and proactive toward future research needs) and be ever-growing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693063390938.jpeg" alt="Ben Wiens, Dianna Krejsa and Bailey Dixon prepare specimens in the field in Trego County. KU photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ben Wiens, Dianna Krejsa and Bailey Dixon prepare specimens in the field in Trego County. KU photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KU Office of ResearchEditor’s note: Fieldwork provides invaluable insights about real-world environments and processes, expanding and reinforcing what researchers learn in classrooms, labs and collections. KU faculty, staff and students across a spectrum of disciplines are taking their inquiry directly to rivers, prairies, dig sites, glaciers, islands, burial grounds and more this summer. Through the #KUFieldWorks series, we'll join them on their adventures.<h2>Q&amp;A with Dianna Krejsa, Mammals Collection Manager</h2>LAWRENCE — More than 100 years ago, a field crew from KU's Biodiversity Institute &amp; Natural History Museum journeyed through a unique mix of Kansas counties to document the mammals, birds, amphibians and wildlife flourishing in those environments. Now Dianna Krejsa and her team are retracing their steps to evaluate changes in multiple Kansas ecosystems.&nbsp;What methods, approaches, experiments, etc. are you using?In our current in-state field activities, we are conducting work supported by state grant funds to survey Kansas species. Our fieldwork is structured by resurveying sites that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Birds-Bones-Beetles.../dp/0700627731">Charles Bunker</a>, a curator of the KU Natural History Museum in the early 1900s, visited in 1911 and 1912. These unique locales and habitats included the Gypsum Hills of southern Kansas (Clark, Comanche and Barber counties), the desert and shortgrass prairie of west-central Kansas (Trego and Stafford counties), the high plains of far western Kansas (Cheyenne, Wallace and Hamilton counties), and mixed oak-hickory woodlands of eastern Kansas (Doniphan, Woodson, Greenwood and Cherokee counties.Our resurvey — more than 100 years later — is producing important new county records and helps inform wildlife managers of the conservation status of certain species, provides data on population cycles and fluctuations, and serves as a new baseline for future examinations of change through time. Our methods for surveying and collecting are not dissimilar to Bunker’s, so our group is able to replicate the work and effort he and his field crew put in to getting the records they did, and we can compare them to species diversity and abundances found today. These surveys include mammals, birds and herpetofauna (amphibians and reptiles), and each resurvey at a given county site generates a short report of species found there that can be used by wildlife managers as well as private landowners in the area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693063602892.jpeg" alt="Ben Wiens holds an evening bat documented in the resurvey after it was caught in a mist net in Trego County. KU photo" />
 <figcaption>Ben Wiens holds an evening bat documented in the resurvey after it was caught in a mist net in Trego County. KU photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Why does your study matter to your field or for society?We are providing new data on Kansas native species that will be used to look backward — to examine changes in the last 100 years — as well as to serve as a baseline for changes in the next 50 to 100 years. What can new hybridization dynamics among birds tell us about encroachment of eastern species on western ones? Are some species getting sequestered to “islands” of ideal habitat, where they are no longer able to disperse and add to their species-wide gene pool? Or are previously rare or imperiled species stabilizing or growing? We’re helping to add to those datasets and work with state agencies and landowners who are invested in our natural resources.&nbsp;What do you enjoy most about being in the field?I enjoy being in the field because, of course, it involves getting back into nature — and that is why many of us entered a field like biology, natural resources management or conservation: a love for the outdoors and wonders of the natural world. I also love the near-constant business of fieldwork — that there is always something to work on next. And with the camaraderie of good colleagues and new students getting to experience fieldwork for the first time, there is nearly limitless energy among us.What are some memorable (funny, scary, surprising, etc.) moments from the field?Each day walking a trapline or driving to survey is going to be full of surprises — you don’t know what you’ll see on the landscape. One evening survey, we stopped the vehicle to get a better look at a jackrabbit, angling the headlights for a better view. In doing so, we happened to catch sight of a striped skunk walking into the brush. Then, when we got out binoculars to have a closer look, the rabbit and skunk were gone but new eye shine on the hillside proved to be a badger. Who can ask for a better evening drive?<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693063687785.jpeg" alt="Photo of a tree-dotted field in Cheyenne County. KU photo" />
 <figcaption>Photo of a tree-dotted field in Cheyenne County. KU photo</figcaption>
 </figure>When is fieldwork frustrating, challenging or overwhelming?The only thing that can stop a good field experience in its tracks is lack of food or coffee. Make sure the crew is well-fed and caffeinated as needed, and the rest will fall into place. Regardless of frustrating moments or challenges, nearly everyone looks back on their time in the field fondly (perhaps after they’ve had a shower and nap after returning home).How does fieldwork complement the work you do elsewhere?Fieldwork is how we build collections at the Biodiversity Institute, and those collections are at the root of our research efforts and student involvement. To remain relevant, a natural history collection must be dynamic and adaptive in its methodologies (being perceptive to current and proactive toward future research needs) and be ever-growing.

#KUFieldWorks: Tracking changes in western Kansas ecological history

From the high plains of north-central Kansas, Fort Hays State University oﬀers exceptional, proven academic quality at an unmatched price. We know the journey to success begins with accessibility—so we give students an education that empowers their future without the burden of high tuition. That’s a promise no one else can match, and that, we believe, makes FHSU the best value in higher education anywhere.

We unlock the untapped potential of students by oﬀering a robust education at a price that will not be a financial burden. Go ahead and compare tuition. We’re proud to say that attending FHSU costs about 50% less than the national average for nearly every student. This academic year, the national average for tuition and fees for a full-time undergraduate student is $10,423; for the public universities in Kansas, $8,543; and for FHSU, $5,634.

But let’s go a little deeper. The Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity (FREEOPP.org) set out to provide a meaningful way to evaluate universities. Preston Cooper, a research fellow at the non-profit organization, determined the College Scorecard data from the U.S. Department of Education, which provides earnings results for those students receiving federal financial aid from over 30,000 bachelor’s degree programs at U.S. colleges and universities, would be a great place to start.

Cooper then supplemented the Scorecard results with information from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY) to ultimately derive what he labels “Lifetime Return on Investment” or more frequently referred to as ROI in financial circles.

ROI is defined as the present value of lifetime earnings with a college degree, minus the present discounted value of counterfactual earnings (the amount that the same student would have earned over the course of her life had she not gone to college), minus the cost of tuition, required fees, books, and equipment.

This process allows for comparison across universities and programs within the same university. It also helps students answer the question: Will this credential lead to a better-paying job than my alternative?

So, how does FHSU stack up regarding its programs and overall? That’s where our “value” story really starts to shine.

Across the 27 bachelor programs evaluated in the research, every Fort Hays State University program provided a positive return on investment!

To provide some context on that result, roughly 30 percent of bachelor programs across the 30,000 programs studied return a negative ROI, so having no programs with a negative ROI, regardless of the program of study, is quite impressive.

From a state of Kansas perspective, FHSU is the only public state university with all programs indicating a positive ROI, with Washburn University being the only other public state university

to match that feat. Across all 27 programs in the study, FHSU observes an average weighted ROI of just north of $400,000!

Not only are these results life-changing, but the state of Kansas, which is ultimately the home to a large majority of these graduates, also reaps an outsized benefit.

As the study utilized graduates from 2015 through 2017, an additional level of insight provided involves the impact on the value-added earnings of graduates in the communities where they live and work

Looking across the 27 programs evaluated at FHSU, the cumulative lifetime ROI programs provided an economic impact of more than $1.1 billion from the students who graduated during the study period.

As some programs may graduate fewer students than others while still providing higher levels of ROI, the researcher also looked at what he called the “Most Valuable Players (MVP)” to provide additional context to the programs that show an outsized community economic impact on ROI.

For FHSU, our MVPs included Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing ($263 million); Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities ($177 million); and Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods ($99 million).

Our Liberal Arts degree was called out by name in FREEOPP.org’s ‘Ranking the 50 State Public University Systems on Prices &amp; Outcomes’ report as “unexpectedly valuable degrees abound in the Sunflower State: Fort Hays State University offers a liberal arts degree worth $234,000.”

We are proud to say all our programs evaluated in the study provide students with a positive lifetime ROI. Our three highest ROI programs are Management Information Systems, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, and Business.

FHSU offers a world-class higher education experience at an unbeatable price, with a lifetime positive return on investment for our graduates and numerous intangible benefits to the Kansas communities where our outstanding alumni live and serve. No matter how you slice the data in this independent study, the value of Fort Hays State University shines through, highlighting one more reason why we are proud to say we are the best value in education anywhere.

Tisa Mason is president of Fort Hays State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason, FHSU president. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason, FHSU president. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>From the high plains of north-central Kansas, Fort Hays State University oﬀers exceptional, proven academic quality at an unmatched price. We know the journey to success begins with accessibility—so we give students an education that empowers their future without the burden of high tuition. That’s a promise no one else can match, and that, we believe, makes FHSU the best value in higher education anywhere.We unlock the untapped potential of students by oﬀering a robust education at a price that will not be a financial burden. Go ahead and compare tuition. We’re proud to say that attending FHSU costs about 50% less than the national average for nearly every student. This academic year, the national average for tuition and fees for a full-time undergraduate student is $10,423; for the public universities in Kansas, $8,543; and for FHSU, $5,634.But let’s go a little deeper. The Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity (FREEOPP.org) set out to provide a meaningful way to evaluate universities. Preston Cooper, a research fellow at the non-profit organization, determined the College Scorecard data from the U.S. Department of Education, which provides earnings results for those students receiving federal financial aid from over 30,000 bachelor’s degree programs at U.S. colleges and universities, would be a great place to start.Cooper then supplemented the Scorecard results with information from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY) to ultimately derive what he labels “Lifetime Return on Investment” or more frequently referred to as ROI in financial circles.ROI is defined as the present value of lifetime earnings with a college degree, minus the present discounted value of counterfactual earnings (the amount that the same student would have earned over the course of her life had she not gone to college), minus the cost of tuition, required fees, books, and equipment.This process allows for comparison across universities and programs within the same university. It also helps students answer the question: Will this credential lead to a better-paying job than my alternative?So, how does FHSU stack up regarding its programs and overall? That’s where our “value” story really starts to shine.Across the 27 bachelor programs evaluated in the research, every Fort Hays State University program provided a positive return on investment!To provide some context on that result, roughly 30 percent of bachelor programs across the 30,000 programs studied return a negative ROI, so having no programs with a negative ROI, regardless of the program of study, is quite impressive.From a state of Kansas perspective, FHSU is the only public state university with all programs indicating a positive ROI, with Washburn University being the only other public state universityto match that feat. Across all 27 programs in the study, FHSU observes an average weighted ROI of just north of $400,000!Not only are these results life-changing, but the state of Kansas, which is ultimately the home to a large majority of these graduates, also reaps an outsized benefit.As the study utilized graduates from 2015 through 2017, an additional level of insight provided involves the impact on the value-added earnings of graduates in the communities where they live and workLooking across the 27 programs evaluated at FHSU, the cumulative lifetime ROI programs provided an economic impact of more than $1.1 billion from the students who graduated during the study period.As some programs may graduate fewer students than others while still providing higher levels of ROI, the researcher also looked at what he called the “Most Valuable Players (MVP)” to provide additional context to the programs that show an outsized community economic impact on ROI.For FHSU, our MVPs included Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing ($263 million); Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities ($177 million); and Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods ($99 million).Our Liberal Arts degree was called out by name in FREEOPP.org’s ‘Ranking the 50 State Public University Systems on Prices &amp; Outcomes’ report as “unexpectedly valuable degrees abound in the Sunflower State: Fort Hays State University offers a liberal arts degree worth $234,000.”We are proud to say all our programs evaluated in the study provide students with a positive lifetime ROI. Our three highest ROI programs are Management Information Systems, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, and Business.FHSU offers a world-class higher education experience at an unbeatable price, with a lifetime positive return on investment for our graduates and numerous intangible benefits to the Kansas communities where our outstanding alumni live and serve. No matter how you slice the data in this independent study, the value of Fort Hays State University shines through, highlighting one more reason why we are proud to say we are the best value in education anywhere.Tisa Mason is president of Fort Hays State University.

Heart of a Tiger: The unmatched value of an FHSU education

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693507393334.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>

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd489.com/">USD 489</a> WeKan transition coordinator Dawn Howard and students Tristen and Christian discuss the center's community projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="USD 489 WeKan Center connects students, community projects" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:450px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=px3si-1494d0f-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd489.com/">USD 489</a> WeKan transition coordinator Dawn Howard and students Tristen and Christian discuss the center's community projects.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: USD 489 WeKan Center connects students, community projects

GOVE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Thursday in Gove County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Honda Goldwing driven by&nbsp; Steve Alan&nbsp;Ziegler, 69, Goodland was hauling a trailer eastbound on Interstate 70 four miles west of Kansas 23 in the passing lane.

While merging back into the right lane, the driver lost control and veered toward the median. The vehicle and driver overturned and came to a stop in the median.

Zeigler was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Baalmann Mortuary.

GOVE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Thursday in Gove County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Honda Goldwing driven by&nbsp; Steve Alan&nbsp;Ziegler, 69, Goodland was hauling a trailer eastbound on Interstate 70 four miles west of Kansas 23 in the passing lane.While merging back into the right lane, the driver lost control and veered toward the median. The vehicle and driver overturned and came to a stop in the median.Zeigler was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Baalmann Mortuary.

NW Kansas man dies after motorcycle overturns on I-70

RUSh COUNTY—One person was hospitalized after an accident just before 10a.m. Wednesday in Rush County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Freightline semi driven by Brandon John Knipp, 39, Russell, was westbound on Kansas 4 at U.S. 183.

The driver failed to stop at&nbsp; the stop sign and collided with a southbound 2013 Kenworth semi driven by Jeffrey Alan&nbsp;Beikmann, 43, Russell, in the the intersection.

After impact, the Kenworth traveled into the southwest corner of the road and overturned. The Freightliner came to rest jack-knifed on K4 facing Eastbound.&nbsp;

EMS transported Knipp to Hays Medical Center. First responders treated Beikmann at the scene for minor injuries. Knipp was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693424182707.jpeg" alt="Photo by&nbsp;Mark Goff for Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by&nbsp;Mark Goff for Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSh COUNTY—One person was hospitalized after an accident just before 10a.m. Wednesday in Rush County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Freightline semi driven by Brandon John Knipp, 39, Russell, was westbound on Kansas 4 at U.S. 183.The driver failed to stop at&nbsp; the stop sign and collided with a southbound 2013 Kenworth semi driven by Jeffrey Alan&nbsp;Beikmann, 43, Russell, in the the intersection.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693424197713.jpeg" alt="Photos by Mark Goff for Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos by Mark Goff for Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>After impact, the Kenworth traveled into the southwest corner of the road and overturned. The Freightliner came to rest jack-knifed on K4 facing Eastbound.&nbsp;EMS transported Knipp to Hays Medical Center. First responders treated Beikmann at the scene for minor injuries. Knipp was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Russell man hospitalized after 2 semi trucks crash 

ELLIS–In a 5-2 vote Monday, the USD 388 school board voted
to move to the ranks of eight-man football starting in 2024.

The district conducted a community survey and also got feedback
from students, staff and community members before the board made it’s decision.

First-year head football coach Bryant Eichman said he believed both sides presented good points during the lengthy discussion Monday, and it was not an easy decision for the board to make.

“I think what it ultimately came down to was the fact that
it's so hard for us right now with the numbers that we have out to fill the JV
team on Mondays,” Eichman said.

Eichman said they have 26 players out for football this
year, and they have 16 or 17 that will play varsity on Friday night leaving them
with 10, one player short of fielding a starting 11-man lineup.

“We kind of have to bring some of those varsity guys down to
play JV this year, and then you always worry about injuries,” Eichman said. “Then
if those varsity guys get hurt, then how does that affect your team on Friday
nights?”

Eichman, who comes from the junior-high level where they
played eight-man last season and also had eight-man experience at Palco, said he
was prepared to coach the team no matter what the board decided. However, he said he was
happy about the decision.

Hays PostELLIS–In a 5-2 vote Monday, the USD 388 school board voted
to move to the ranks of eight-man football starting in 2024.The district conducted a community survey and also got feedback
from students, staff and community members before the board made it’s decision.First-year head football coach Bryant Eichman said he believed both sides presented good points during the lengthy discussion Monday, and it was not an easy decision for the board to make.“I think what it ultimately came down to was the fact that
it's so hard for us right now with the numbers that we have out to fill the JV
team on Mondays,” Eichman said.Eichman said they have 26 players out for football this
year, and they have 16 or 17 that will play varsity on Friday night leaving them
with 10, one player short of fielding a starting 11-man lineup.“We kind of have to bring some of those varsity guys down to
play JV this year, and then you always worry about injuries,” Eichman said. “Then
if those varsity guys get hurt, then how does that affect your team on Friday
nights?”Eichman, who comes from the junior-high level where they
played eight-man last season and also had eight-man experience at Palco, said he
was prepared to coach the team no matter what the board decided. However, he said he was
happy about the decision.“I'm happy about the vote because, obviously, I love eight-man
football. I understand that it was a tough decision for the community and quite a few of them are not going to be happy with what was decided,” Eichman
said. The 2023 season is the final year of a two-year cycle for
KSHSAA classifications, and schools considering making the change to eight-man
football had to make that decision by Friday. The classifications and district
assignments for the 2024 and 2025 seasons will come out later this fall.The Ellis Railroaders will compete in the 1A classification
of the 11-man ranks in 2023.

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