<a>Governor Laura Kelly has approved updated drought declarations for Kansas counties with&nbsp;</a><a href="https://kwo.ks.gov/docs/default-source/drought/eo-23-04-executed.pdf?sfvrsn=48598f14_2" target="_blank">Executive Order #23-04</a>.

“Kansans have been resilient in the face of drought this past year,” said Kelly. “Even with some regions receiving significant rainfall, I strongly encourage all Kansans to continue to be mindful of ways we can conserve water and minimize fire hazards.”

The drought declaration placed 55 counties into an emergency status, 18 counties in a warning status and 32 into a watch status.

 This action was recommended by Connie Owen, director of the Kansas Water Office and chair of the Governor’s Drought Response Team. 

While most of western Kansas have seen relief from drought in the last two months, central and southeast Kansas have continued to be dry, with nearly 30 percent of Kansas currently in extreme or exceptional drought.

“We are still seeing the effects of the drought conditions from the past year. With drought conditions persisting throughout parts of the state, we are continuing to see stressed surface and ground water supplies, negative effects on crop production and elevated wildfire risk,” said Owen. “The Governor’s Drought Response Team will continue to monitor the drought conditions across Kansas and make recommendations to Governor Kelly as conditions change.”

Through an interagency agreement between the Kansas Water Office, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and Kansas Division of Emergency Management, counties in emergency stage are eligible for emergency use of water from certain state fishing lakes. These counties also become eligible for water in some federal reservoirs.

Individuals and communities need to contact the Kansas Water Office for a water supply request prior to any withdrawals from lakes. These requests will in turn be referred to the appropriate office to obtain necessary permits to withdraw requested water.

This Executive Order shall remain in effect for those counties identified until rescinded by Executive Order ending the declaration or revising the drought stage status of the affected counties.

Effective immediately, Executive Order #23-04:

The Governor’s Drought Response Team will continue to watch the situation closely and work to minimize the negative drought-induced effects on Kansans.

For more detailed information about current conditions, visit the Climate and Drought webpage on the Kansas Water Office website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kwo.ks.gov/" target="_blank">kwo.ks.gov</a>.

County Drought Stage Declarations:

Drought Emergency:&nbsp;Allen, Anderson, Barton, Bourbon, Butler, Chase, Chautauqua, Cloud, Coffey, Cowley, Crawford, Dickinson, Edwards, Elk, Ellis, Ellsworth, Finney, Ford, Gove, Graham, Greenwood, Harvey, Hodgeman, Jewell, Kiowa, Lane, Lincoln, Lyon, Marion, McPherson, Mitchell, Montgomery, Morris, Neosho, Ness, Norton, Osborne, Ottawa, Pawnee, Phillips, Pratt, Reno, Republic, Rice, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Saline, Sedgwick, Smith, Stafford, Sumner, Trego, Wilson, Woodson.

Drought Warning:&nbsp;Cherokee, Clay, Decatur, Douglas, Franklin, Geary, Johnson, Kingman, Labette, Linn, Miami, Osage, Pottawatomie, Riley, Shawnee, Sheridan, Wabaunsee, Washington.

Drought Watch:&nbsp;Atchison, Barber, Brown, Cheyenne, Clark, Comanche, Doniphan, Grant, Gray, Greeley, Hamilton, Harper, Haskell, Jackson, Jefferson, Kearny, Leavenworth, Logan, Marshall, Meade, Morton, Nemaha, Rawlins, Scott, Seward, Sherman, Stanton, Stevens, Thomas, Wallace, Wichita, Wyandotte.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692873755206.png" alt="Ellis County remains in drought emergency, despite some relief in western Kansas.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County remains in drought emergency, despite some relief in western Kansas.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Gov.<a>Governor Laura Kelly has approved updated drought declarations for Kansas counties with&nbsp;</a><a href="https://kwo.ks.gov/docs/default-source/drought/eo-23-04-executed.pdf?sfvrsn=48598f14_2" target="_blank">Executive Order #23-04</a>.“Kansans have been resilient in the face of drought this past year,” said Kelly. “Even with some regions receiving significant rainfall, I strongly encourage all Kansans to continue to be mindful of ways we can conserve water and minimize fire hazards.”The drought declaration placed 55 counties into an emergency status, 18 counties in a warning status and 32 into a watch status. This action was recommended by Connie Owen, director of the Kansas Water Office and chair of the Governor’s Drought Response Team. While most of western Kansas have seen relief from drought in the last two months, central and southeast Kansas have continued to be dry, with nearly 30 percent of Kansas currently in extreme or exceptional drought.“We are still seeing the effects of the drought conditions from the past year. With drought conditions persisting throughout parts of the state, we are continuing to see stressed surface and ground water supplies, negative effects on crop production and elevated wildfire risk,” said Owen. “The Governor’s Drought Response Team will continue to monitor the drought conditions across Kansas and make recommendations to Governor Kelly as conditions change.”Through an interagency agreement between the Kansas Water Office, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and Kansas Division of Emergency Management, counties in emergency stage are eligible for emergency use of water from certain state fishing lakes. These counties also become eligible for water in some federal reservoirs.Individuals and communities need to contact the Kansas Water Office for a water supply request prior to any withdrawals from lakes. These requests will in turn be referred to the appropriate office to obtain necessary permits to withdraw requested water.This Executive Order shall remain in effect for those counties identified until rescinded by Executive Order ending the declaration or revising the drought stage status of the affected counties.Effective immediately, Executive Order #23-04:<ol>
 <li>Declares a Drought Emergency, Warning or Watch for the counties as identified below;</li><li>Authorizes and&nbsp;directs&nbsp;all agencies under the jurisdiction of the Governor to implement the appropriate watch, warning or emergency level drought response actions assigned in the Operations Plan of the Governor’s Drought Response Team.</li>
 </ol>The Governor’s Drought Response Team will continue to watch the situation closely and work to minimize the negative drought-induced effects on Kansans.For more detailed information about current conditions, visit the Climate and Drought webpage on the Kansas Water Office website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kwo.ks.gov/" target="_blank">kwo.ks.gov</a>.County Drought Stage Declarations:Drought Emergency:&nbsp;Allen, Anderson, Barton, Bourbon, Butler, Chase, Chautauqua, Cloud, Coffey, Cowley, Crawford, Dickinson, Edwards, Elk, Ellis, Ellsworth, Finney, Ford, Gove, Graham, Greenwood, Harvey, Hodgeman, Jewell, Kiowa, Lane, Lincoln, Lyon, Marion, McPherson, Mitchell, Montgomery, Morris, Neosho, Ness, Norton, Osborne, Ottawa, Pawnee, Phillips, Pratt, Reno, Republic, Rice, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Saline, Sedgwick, Smith, Stafford, Sumner, Trego, Wilson, Woodson.Drought Warning:&nbsp;Cherokee, Clay, Decatur, Douglas, Franklin, Geary, Johnson, Kingman, Labette, Linn, Miami, Osage, Pottawatomie, Riley, Shawnee, Sheridan, Wabaunsee, Washington.Drought Watch:&nbsp;Atchison, Barber, Brown, Cheyenne, Clark, Comanche, Doniphan, Grant, Gray, Greeley, Hamilton, Harper, Haskell, Jackson, Jefferson, Kearny, Leavenworth, Logan, Marshall, Meade, Morton, Nemaha, Rawlins, Scott, Seward, Sherman, Stanton, Stevens, Thomas, Wallace, Wichita, Wyandotte.

Despite relief in western Kan., Ellis Co. remains in drought emergency declared by governor

Female imagery will fill the Hays Arts Center for the 38th
annual Fall Art Walk in Hays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Aug. 25.

The opening of the invitational exhibition "She Is…" will
anchor the evening that will see businesses and organizations downtown
and beyond open their doors to the community to partake in artistic expressions
of all types.

“I’ve just seen so many of the
wonderful artists, not only in our area, but other artists I was aware of that
I'd never even worked with before, but admired their work and had the idea for
the show called 'She Is…,'” said Hays Arts Council executive director Brenda
Meder.

“And so, the idea of, she is old, she is young, she is somber, she is
joyful, she is contemplative, she is bold, just all those different aspects of female imagery in art.”

The exhibition includes paintings,
photography, etchings, silkscreens, caustic ceramic sculpture and stone
sculpture. It features both local artists and others from across the
state whose work will be exhibited at the center for the first time, she said

“It's a whole variety of
different styles, expressions, and just wonderful images, painting styles out of female imagery through a variety of ages and creative media,” Meder
said.

The arts center is only
one stop of many scheduled for the evening.

“We've got a lot of wonderful
features and opportunities for people to just enjoy in our community,” Meder said.

In conjunction with the Art
Walk, the Hays Symphony Pops concert is scheduled at 7:30 p.m. in Union Pacific
Park, 10th and Main. 

The K-State Research and
Extension Cottonwood District Master Gardeners will be showcasing their four gardens at the extension district office 601 Main; Historic Fort Hays, 1472 U.S. Highway 183 Alt.; and at the K-Stae Ag Research Center, 1232 240th Ave.

The evening also will mark the
opening of Toby Ironworks, 708 Main, the new workspace of local artist Toby
Flores.

“Everybody will want to get
to Toby’s,” Meder said. “He bought the building, and it's going to be a studio/gallery
workspace. It's just another cool, exciting space in downtown Hays.”

Fort Hays State
University’s Moss-Thorns and Taylor galleries will be open from 6 to
8:30 p.m.

“Come
out and enjoy your visit whatever places you want, staying for however long you
want, in whatever order you want,” Meder said.

“It's your evening to design however you want, but we're providing it and a whole lot of other great people
in this community. [We are] making sure it happens to the highest level of fun,
entertainment and artistic expression.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823735458.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="’She Is...’ to anchor Fall Art Walk in downtown Hays Friday" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9s3w2-148a2a5-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostFemale imagery will fill the Hays Arts Center for the 38th
annual Fall Art Walk in Hays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Aug. 25.The opening of the invitational exhibition "She Is…" will
anchor the evening that will see businesses and organizations downtown
and beyond open their doors to the community to partake in artistic expressions
of all types.“I’ve just seen so many of the
wonderful artists, not only in our area, but other artists I was aware of that
I'd never even worked with before, but admired their work and had the idea for
the show called 'She Is…,'” said Hays Arts Council executive director Brenda
Meder.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823769710.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“And so, the idea of, she is old, she is young, she is somber, she is
joyful, she is contemplative, she is bold, just all those different aspects of female imagery in art.”The exhibition includes paintings,
photography, etchings, silkscreens, caustic ceramic sculpture and stone
sculpture. It features both local artists and others from across the
state whose work will be exhibited at the center for the first time, she said“It's a whole variety of
different styles, expressions, and just wonderful images, painting styles out of female imagery through a variety of ages and creative media,” Meder
said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823794033.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The arts center is only
one stop of many scheduled for the evening.“We've got a lot of wonderful
features and opportunities for people to just enjoy in our community,” Meder said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692814298595.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In conjunction with the Art
Walk, the Hays Symphony Pops concert is scheduled at 7:30 p.m. in Union Pacific
Park, 10th and Main. The K-State Research and
Extension Cottonwood District Master Gardeners will be showcasing their four gardens at the extension district office 601 Main; Historic Fort Hays, 1472 U.S. Highway 183 Alt.; and at the K-Stae Ag Research Center, 1232 240th Ave.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823819008.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The evening also will mark the
opening of Toby Ironworks, 708 Main, the new workspace of local artist Toby
Flores.“Everybody will want to get
to Toby’s,” Meder said. “He bought the building, and it's going to be a studio/gallery
workspace. It's just another cool, exciting space in downtown Hays.”Fort Hays State
University’s Moss-Thorns and Taylor galleries will be open from 6 to
8:30 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823849761.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“Come
out and enjoy your visit whatever places you want, staying for however long you
want, in whatever order you want,” Meder said.“It's your evening to design however you want, but we're providing it and a whole lot of other great people
in this community. [We are] making sure it happens to the highest level of fun,
entertainment and artistic expression.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823866274.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823878357.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823906694.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823892545.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 'She Is...' to anchor Fall Art Walk Friday in downtown Hays 

Twice a year North Central Kansas Technical College awards a member of our staff or faculty with a 212° Award. 

The purpose of the 212° Award is to recognize individuals who demonstrate superior dedication and the willingness to go that extra degree. 212 degrees is the boiling point of water. Everyone has watched it happen as water goes from still to rumbling when it reaches that threshold. That boiling point is a transformation point. 

Recipients of this award are employees who voluntarily go above and beyond the call of duty and are transformational leaders at the college. These employees demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to their profession, students, fellow employees, and a loyalty to the mission of NCK Tech.

The recipient of 2023 Fall 212° Award is AJ Baxa. AJ is the director of maintenance operations for the Beloit campus. AJ is very dedicated in providing an uplifting experience for all students and faculty and routinely goes above and beyond his job duties.

“AJ is an outstanding member of the NCK Tech family and very deserving of this recognition," said NCK Tech President Eric Burks. "He’s very dedicated and cares tremendously about the experience students and faculty have on our campus. AJ is always willing to go the extra mile to help out, always maintaining a positive ‘can do’ attitude and approach toward his work."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692739370036.jpeg" alt="AJ Baxa receives the&nbsp;212° Award from NCK Tech President Eric Burks. NCK Tech photo" />
 <figcaption>AJ Baxa receives the&nbsp;212° Award from NCK Tech President Eric Burks. NCK Tech photo</figcaption>
 </figure>NCK TECHTwice a year North Central Kansas Technical College awards a member of our staff or faculty with a 212° Award. The purpose of the 212° Award is to recognize individuals who demonstrate superior dedication and the willingness to go that extra degree. 212 degrees is the boiling point of water. Everyone has watched it happen as water goes from still to rumbling when it reaches that threshold. That boiling point is a transformation point. Recipients of this award are employees who voluntarily go above and beyond the call of duty and are transformational leaders at the college. These employees demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to their profession, students, fellow employees, and a loyalty to the mission of NCK Tech.The recipient of 2023 Fall 212° Award is AJ Baxa. AJ is the director of maintenance operations for the Beloit campus. AJ is very dedicated in providing an uplifting experience for all students and faculty and routinely goes above and beyond his job duties.“AJ is an outstanding member of the NCK Tech family and very deserving of this recognition," said NCK Tech President Eric Burks. "He’s very dedicated and cares tremendously about the experience students and faculty have on our campus. AJ is always willing to go the extra mile to help out, always maintaining a positive ‘can do’ attitude and approach toward his work."

NCK Technical College names fall 2023 212° Award recipient

First Care Clinic is pleased to announce the hiring of Dr. Ross Kee as its dental director. 

Kee will continue to see patients at his private practice in La Crosse, but will provide dental care and administrative duties at First Care Clinic on Fridays.

Kee is originally from Plainville and graduated from University of Missouri Kansas City School of Dentistry.

“We are very excited to welcome Dr. Kee to our dental team. We look forward to the leadership he will provide our team as dental director and are grateful that he is sharing his talents with us and our patients,” stated Eric Flax, CEO.

First Care Clinic accepts all major insurances and offers a sliding fee scale discount to those who qualify. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call First Care Clinic at 785-621-4990.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692716192017.jpeg" alt="Dr. Ross Kee (Photo courtesy First Care Clinic)" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Ross Kee (Photo courtesy First Care Clinic)</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedFirst Care Clinic is pleased to announce the hiring of Dr. Ross Kee as its dental director. Kee will continue to see patients at his private practice in La Crosse, but will provide dental care and administrative duties at First Care Clinic on Fridays.Kee is originally from Plainville and graduated from University of Missouri Kansas City School of Dentistry.“We are very excited to welcome Dr. Kee to our dental team. We look forward to the leadership he will provide our team as dental director and are grateful that he is sharing his talents with us and our patients,” stated Eric Flax, CEO.First Care Clinic accepts all major insurances and offers a sliding fee scale discount to those who qualify. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call First Care Clinic at 785-621-4990.

First Care Clinic welcomes new dental director

After the landmark graduation ceremony held in the spring of 1892, area teachers continued to improve their skills through participation in the county teacher organization. Because of its strong educational practices, Ellis played a central role in area-wide educational development.

The 1893, the county organization once again held their meeting in Ellis. Visiting teachers and lecturers lodged in the Union Pacific Railroad Y.M.C.A. building. Inservice topics included pressing matters such as “Language in the primary grades,” “Educational value of the World’s Fair,” “To What extent may current events and literature be introduced in our schools?”, “Teacher’s means of self culture,” The teacher’s opinion of himself. What should it be?” and “The difficulties of grading country schools and how to overcome them.” It’s clear that world or at least national educational standards influenced teacher training in Ellis County.

By 1894, the state superintendent mandated that all teachers must have certificates before they districts could employ them. That year Ellis hired five certified teachers: Professor Jackson, Mrs. Jackson, Miss Gaylord, Miss Stearns, and Miss Kingsley to teach 241 scholars. The board voted to provide an 8-month school funded by a 16 mill levy to pay the bills.

A year later, the mill levy increased to 17 mills and time in class increased to 9 months. In addition, the board voted to “debar” children under six years of age from attendance due to overcrowded conditions. Enrollment in the primary room was 92 students. That teacher clearly had her hands full.

I found no explanation for it, but in 1896 the board voted to lower the tax levy to 9 ½ mills. Staff members included one returning teacher Miss Kingsley and newcomers Miss Andreas, Miss McLeod, Miss Campbell, with J.W. Thompson serving as principal.

The newspaper printed little info regarding schools for the next few years. The high school continued graduating small classes while the town continued to grow. By 1900, citizens circulated a petition to call for an election “for the purpose of voting bonds to the amount of $4,000 with which to build an addition to the school house.” The school had become so overcrowded that one teacher taught 75 -80 pupils. Local citizenry recognized such an atmosphere didn’t benefit the pupil or the teacher.

Unfortunately, a period of political sectionalism that involved original settlers and later arriving European immigrants dominated Ellis elections at that time. The differences became the issue rather than the need for a new school. Due to factional quarreling, the bond issue failed and the school “worried along” for a few more years. The editor of the Review-Headlight called the quarreling parties to task with the statement, “A little less sectionalism and a little more common sense is what Ellis needs.” He then encouraged citizens to reorganize and vote on the bonds again.

Nothing remains the same, and this eight-year time frame certainly supports that life truth. Ellis, like every nearby prairie town, continued changing. Their school reflected the town’s evolution.

Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692797017875.jpeg" alt="Ellis High School limestone building (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Ellis High School limestone building (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINAfter the landmark graduation ceremony held in the spring of 1892, area teachers continued to improve their skills through participation in the county teacher organization. Because of its strong educational practices, Ellis played a central role in area-wide educational development.The 1893, the county organization once again held their meeting in Ellis. Visiting teachers and lecturers lodged in the Union Pacific Railroad Y.M.C.A. building. Inservice topics included pressing matters such as “Language in the primary grades,” “Educational value of the World’s Fair,” “To What extent may current events and literature be introduced in our schools?”, “Teacher’s means of self culture,” The teacher’s opinion of himself. What should it be?” and “The difficulties of grading country schools and how to overcome them.” It’s clear that world or at least national educational standards influenced teacher training in Ellis County.By 1894, the state superintendent mandated that all teachers must have certificates before they districts could employ them. That year Ellis hired five certified teachers: Professor Jackson, Mrs. Jackson, Miss Gaylord, Miss Stearns, and Miss Kingsley to teach 241 scholars. The board voted to provide an 8-month school funded by a 16 mill levy to pay the bills.A year later, the mill levy increased to 17 mills and time in class increased to 9 months. In addition, the board voted to “debar” children under six years of age from attendance due to overcrowded conditions. Enrollment in the primary room was 92 students. That teacher clearly had her hands full.I found no explanation for it, but in 1896 the board voted to lower the tax levy to 9 ½ mills. Staff members included one returning teacher Miss Kingsley and newcomers Miss Andreas, Miss McLeod, Miss Campbell, with J.W. Thompson serving as principal.The newspaper printed little info regarding schools for the next few years. The high school continued graduating small classes while the town continued to grow. By 1900, citizens circulated a petition to call for an election “for the purpose of voting bonds to the amount of $4,000 with which to build an addition to the school house.” The school had become so overcrowded that one teacher taught 75 -80 pupils. Local citizenry recognized such an atmosphere didn’t benefit the pupil or the teacher.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158626307.png" alt="Karen Madorin&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Unfortunately, a period of political sectionalism that involved original settlers and later arriving European immigrants dominated Ellis elections at that time. The differences became the issue rather than the need for a new school. Due to factional quarreling, the bond issue failed and the school “worried along” for a few more years. The editor of the Review-Headlight called the quarreling parties to task with the statement, “A little less sectionalism and a little more common sense is what Ellis needs.” He then encouraged citizens to reorganize and vote on the bonds again.Nothing remains the same, and this eight-year time frame certainly supports that life truth. Ellis, like every nearby prairie town, continued changing. Their school reflected the town’s evolution.Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.&nbsp;

MADORIN: History of Ellis schools, Part 6

<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/2023/8/1692814930534.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

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hays city commissioners will vote Thursday on whether to approve a&nbsp;common consumption area in downtown Hays, which would allow people to drink alcohol outdoors.

Kansas law allows municipalities to establish common consumption areas, a designated area where patrons of restaurants and bars can move freely in the public right-of-way with alcoholic beverages.

Commissioners first discussed the issue in <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8b222c8f-4665-4812-9b19-d40f55f24721">early June</a>, when they heard about enforcement of the law from&nbsp;Agent Justin White from Kansas Alcohol Beverage Control and Don Scheibler, Hays police chief.

In July, they <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f0243ad0-8849-4193-aff7-4b093f6cc475">continued the discussion with input from downtown Hays businessman Dustin Roths</a>, who favors passage of the ordinance. Roths is the owner of the Fox, the Strand, and Diamond R Jewelry.

Earlier this month, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/61854f41-84f1-47b4-b143-ec51f59d6ead">Leland Olive, owner of downtown's Couture for Men, spoke against the proposal</a>.

Areas of consideration include Seventh Street to 13th Street and Fort to Oak, or Walnut to Oak in order to include Taco Shop and The Golden Q.

Staff is endorsing approval of the common consumption area ordinance.&nbsp;

• Annexation approval of property for "The Grove" proposed housing development at 2520 Canterbury

• Annexation approval of property at 4945 General Hays Road, the former Hays Livestock Commission sale barn. It's owned by&nbsp;Vernie’s Trux-N-Equip, Inc., which plans to relocate its facility to this property.

• Accept minor changes in the 2023 Uniform Public Offense Code and 2023 Standard Traffic Ordinance to reflect changes made by the Kansas Legislature

 • Consideration of a bid for staining of wood structures at the Hays Aquatic Park

• Further review of the proposed 2024 budget

The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

The complete agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08242023-1437">here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692824361514.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays city commissioners will vote Thursday on whether to approve a&nbsp;common consumption area in downtown Hays, which would allow people to drink alcohol outdoors.Kansas law allows municipalities to establish common consumption areas, a designated area where patrons of restaurants and bars can move freely in the public right-of-way with alcoholic beverages.Commissioners first discussed the issue in <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8b222c8f-4665-4812-9b19-d40f55f24721">early June</a>, when they heard about enforcement of the law from&nbsp;Agent Justin White from Kansas Alcohol Beverage Control and Don Scheibler, Hays police chief.In July, they <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f0243ad0-8849-4193-aff7-4b093f6cc475">continued the discussion with input from downtown Hays businessman Dustin Roths</a>, who favors passage of the ordinance. Roths is the owner of the Fox, the Strand, and Diamond R Jewelry.Earlier this month, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/61854f41-84f1-47b4-b143-ec51f59d6ead">Leland Olive, owner of downtown's Couture for Men, spoke against the proposal</a>.Areas of consideration include Seventh Street to 13th Street and Fort to Oak, or Walnut to Oak in order to include Taco Shop and The Golden Q.Staff is endorsing approval of the common consumption area ordinance.&nbsp;Other agenda items include:• Annexation approval of property for "The Grove" proposed housing development at 2520 Canterbury • Annexation approval of property at 4945 General Hays Road, the former Hays Livestock Commission sale barn. It's owned by&nbsp;Vernie’s Trux-N-Equip, Inc., which plans to relocate its facility to this property.• Accept minor changes in the 2023 Uniform Public Offense Code and 2023 Standard Traffic Ordinance to reflect changes made by the Kansas Legislature • Consideration of a bid for staining of wood structures at the Hays Aquatic Park• Further review of the proposed 2024 budgetThe meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.The complete agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08242023-1437">here</a>.&nbsp;

Hays City Commission to vote on common consumption area Thursday

An Ellis County man accused in the death of his wife has
been deemed competent to stand trial.

Jay Naldo Schumacher appeared in Ellis County District Court
Monday for a hearing to determine if he was competent to stand trial in the March
2022 death of Karen Schumacher.

District Court Chief Judge Glenn Braun, following the more
than two-hour hearing, found that Schumacher was competent to stand trial.

Schumacher’s defense team presented two expert witnesses during
the hearing while the state and Assistant Ellis County Attorney Aaron
Cunningham relied on the testimony of Cathy Schaffer from High Plains Mental
Health.

Cunningham said Schaffer conducted an interview with Schumacher
and that he, “did not score any impairments to stand trial during the
interview.”

Schumacher is charged with first degree murder, aggravated
battery, domestic battery and mistreatment of a dependent adult.

He is being held in the Ellis County Jail on bond
and a preliminary hearing has been scheduled for January. 

Hays PostAn Ellis County man accused in the death of his wife has
been deemed competent to stand trial.Jay Naldo Schumacher appeared in Ellis County District Court
Monday for a hearing to determine if he was competent to stand trial in the March
2022 death of Karen Schumacher.District Court Chief Judge Glenn Braun, following the more
than two-hour hearing, found that Schumacher was competent to stand trial.Schumacher’s defense team presented two expert witnesses during
the hearing while the state and Assistant Ellis County Attorney Aaron
Cunningham relied on the testimony of Cathy Schaffer from High Plains Mental
Health.Cunningham said Schaffer conducted an interview with Schumacher
and that he, “did not score any impairments to stand trial during the
interview.”Schumacher is charged with first degree murder, aggravated
battery, domestic battery and mistreatment of a dependent adult.He is being held in the Ellis County Jail on bond
and a preliminary hearing has been scheduled for January.

Judge finds Hays man competent to stand trial in wife’s death

The city of Hays and Ellis County commissioners have agreed to essentially swap responsibilities for the emergency communications center and road maintenance of peripheral areas of Hays.

In a joint meeting Monday night at BriefSpace, the vote was unanimous for Ellis County to take over emergency dispatch staffing and operations in 2024 and&nbsp;the city to vacate the Ellis County Law Enforcement Center, 105 W. 12th, in 2026.

Ellis County and Hays law enforcement have shared building space since 1976. Since then, staff and operations for both agencies have increased.&nbsp;

The city will&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d2112629-d845-4997-a401-f12ff7fa06e5">build a new police station and municipal court facility</a>,&nbsp;most likely at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6ffbca83-83a8-43e5-8920-9d6182b1fb29">27th and Main</a>; the 2024 budget includes funding for the design process.&nbsp;

Currently, the city of Hays staffs and operates the emergency communications center, fielding calls for all of Ellis County. The county owns and maintains all the necessary 911 equipment and infrastructure.&nbsp;

Hays' financial responsibility for communications staff salaries and benefits will be gradually reduced and the employees will become county workers.&nbsp;

Then in 2026, Ellis County will begin charging the city a fee to house municipal court inmates. Currently, those&nbsp;fees&nbsp;are waived in exchange for staffing the emergency communications center.&nbsp;

"By shifting the sheriff's office to where the police are now, we're looking at a possible future capital expense of having some more jail cells added," said Darin Myers, Ellis County administrator, "so if we have something like COVID again, we have isolation cells. We could also keep females and males (inmates) more segregated."

Myers, who also serves as the Ellis County fire chief, talked about plans to add a backup dispatch center in the Ellis County Emergency Services building, 1105 E. 22nd.

The city will be responsible for maintenance and upgrades of seven roads bordering Hays, with the exception of the existing unpaved portion of 41st Street from east Vineyard Park to 260th Avenue for which the county will retain responsibility.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Most of the roads are in both city and county jurisdictions, while some are entirely within the city’s limits. 

The muddled alignments between ownership and responsibility have sometimes been frustrating for developers, said Nathan Leiker, county commissioner. 

"They see our chopped-up roads. Now we've got a new agreement to where there's a little more clarification on the future," Leiker said.&nbsp;

Hays mayor Shaun Musil agreed with County Commission Chairman Neal Younger's earlier statement that "it's more of a community, not county/city.

"I think this is a big thing for our community, working together," Musil said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"For the future of Ellis County and the city of Hays, I think this is a great thing we're doing tonight. Hopefully, we can continue to work like this for even better things in the future."

Sandy Jacobs, Hays vice-mayor, said "The only real place we haven't had collaboration is (commissioners) sitting at this table.

"All our departments are sharing things, doing things all the time together that most people don't even know about," Jacobs said.&nbsp;

"All we're doing is bringing it to a new level and letting our community and county know we're working as one for the whole area."&nbsp;

Details of the agreement were negotiated by staff for several months prior to Monday's meeting.&nbsp;

County Commissioner Michael Berges was absent from the meeting.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692734327280.png" alt="Ellis County will take complete responsibility for the emergency communications center next year. It is currently staffed by city of Hays employees who will become county employees. Photo courtesy of the city of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County will take complete responsibility for the emergency communications center next year. It is currently staffed by city of Hays employees who will become county employees. Photo courtesy of the city of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe city of Hays and Ellis County commissioners have agreed to essentially swap responsibilities for the emergency communications center and road maintenance of peripheral areas of Hays.In a joint meeting Monday night at BriefSpace, the vote was unanimous for Ellis County to take over emergency dispatch staffing and operations in 2024 and&nbsp;the city to vacate the Ellis County Law Enforcement Center, 105 W. 12th, in 2026.Ellis County and Hays law enforcement have shared building space since 1976. Since then, staff and operations for both agencies have increased.&nbsp;The city will&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d2112629-d845-4997-a401-f12ff7fa06e5">build a new police station and municipal court facility</a>,&nbsp;most likely at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6ffbca83-83a8-43e5-8920-9d6182b1fb29">27th and Main</a>; the 2024 budget includes funding for the design process.&nbsp;Currently, the city of Hays staffs and operates the emergency communications center, fielding calls for all of Ellis County. The county owns and maintains all the necessary 911 equipment and infrastructure.&nbsp;Hays' financial responsibility for communications staff salaries and benefits will be gradually reduced and the employees will become county workers.&nbsp;Then in 2026, Ellis County will begin charging the city a fee to house municipal court inmates. Currently, those&nbsp;fees&nbsp;are waived in exchange for staffing the emergency communications center.&nbsp;"By shifting the sheriff's office to where the police are now, we're looking at a possible future capital expense of having some more jail cells added," said Darin Myers, Ellis County administrator, "so if we have something like COVID again, we have isolation cells. We could also keep females and males (inmates) more segregated."Myers, who also serves as the Ellis County fire chief, talked about plans to add a backup dispatch center in the Ellis County Emergency Services building, 1105 E. 22nd.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692733539669.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692735401671.png" alt="Hays will assume maintenance for six roads adjacent to the city limits. Map by city of Hays" />
 <figcaption>Hays will assume maintenance for six roads adjacent to the city limits. Map by city of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>The city will be responsible for maintenance and upgrades of seven roads bordering Hays, with the exception of the existing unpaved portion of 41st Street from east Vineyard Park to 260th Avenue for which the county will retain responsibility.&nbsp;&nbsp;Most of the roads are in both city and county jurisdictions, while some are entirely within the city’s limits. The muddled alignments between ownership and responsibility have sometimes been frustrating for developers, said Nathan Leiker, county commissioner. "They see our chopped-up roads. Now we've got a new agreement to where there's a little more clarification on the future," Leiker said.&nbsp;Hays mayor Shaun Musil agreed with County Commission Chairman Neal Younger's earlier statement that "it's more of a community, not county/city."I think this is a big thing for our community, working together," Musil said.&nbsp;&nbsp;"For the future of Ellis County and the city of Hays, I think this is a great thing we're doing tonight. Hopefully, we can continue to work like this for even better things in the future."Sandy Jacobs, Hays vice-mayor, said "The only real place we haven't had collaboration is (commissioners) sitting at this table."All our departments are sharing things, doing things all the time together that most people don't even know about," Jacobs said.&nbsp;"All we're doing is bringing it to a new level and letting our community and county know we're working as one for the whole area."&nbsp;Details of the agreement were negotiated by staff for several months prior to Monday's meeting.&nbsp;County Commissioner Michael Berges was absent from the meeting.&nbsp;

Ellis County to take over emergency dispatch; Hays to build new police station, municipal court

The <a href="https://hayslibrary.org/">Hays Public Library</a> and the<a href="https://hayschamber.com/"> Hays Chamber</a> will soon team up to bring a discussion of the book "<a href="https://13waysinc.com/product/13-ways-to-kill-your-community/">13 Ways to Kill Your Community."&nbsp;</a>

The work by Doug Griffiths and Kelly Clemmer shares information on ways to strengthen and grow smaller communities by highlighting fundamental mistakes in community development.&nbsp;

At 8 a.m. Sept. 12 and running every following Tuesday until Oct. 10, a book discussion will tackle three chapters of the work in order to spark conversation about the needs of the community.&nbsp;

“This conversation is for anybody who cares about their community and wants to, look at some of our challenges and make a difference,” said Brandon Hines, Hays Public Library director.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He said the work is an easy read, and the conversation is more important than the material.&nbsp;

“I think when you look at building a strong community, [you should have] things that really speak to the different pockets of people that you have, so they feel like they're welcomed and encouraged to stay,” said Sarah Wasinger, Hays Chamber president and CEO. "This is just kind of a nice, organic way to have an actual conversation.”&nbsp;

Each chapter of the book centers on a specific community concern, and each session will discuss the topic area, like water access, attracting business and engaging youth. These three are topics in the first session.&nbsp;

“When they talk about engaging youth, what you’re&nbsp;really talking about is engaging younger families, younger professionals, as they move into town,” Hines said.

The author “talks about board memberships. A lot of times, you don't see anybody on a board that's under 40 or 50 years old ... that turns young folks off when they're not engaged with these decisions.”&nbsp;

Breaking into sessions helps foster discussion, Wasinger said. It allows for a diversity of thought from participants and helps keep young professionals in Ellis County.&nbsp;

“When you don't talk to youth to see what things are important to them, it's very easy for them to want to locate somewhere else,” she said. "We need to be embracing those things and finding ways to keep them grounded here in Hays, not grounded in a bad term, but anchored in Hays and Ellis County.”&nbsp;

The library has two copies of the book in stock.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber, Library team up for discussion of ’13 Ways to Kill Your Community’" 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=szna3-1487a7b-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>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe <a href="https://hayslibrary.org/">Hays Public Library</a> and the<a href="https://hayschamber.com/"> Hays Chamber</a> will soon team up to bring a discussion of the book "<a href="https://13waysinc.com/product/13-ways-to-kill-your-community/">13 Ways to Kill Your Community."&nbsp;</a>The work by Doug Griffiths and Kelly Clemmer shares information on ways to strengthen and grow smaller communities by highlighting fundamental mistakes in community development.&nbsp;At 8 a.m. Sept. 12 and running every following Tuesday until Oct. 10, a book discussion will tackle three chapters of the work in order to spark conversation about the needs of the community.&nbsp;“This conversation is for anybody who cares about their community and wants to, look at some of our challenges and make a difference,” said Brandon Hines, Hays Public Library director.&nbsp;&nbsp;He said the work is an easy read, and the conversation is more important than the material.&nbsp;“I think when you look at building a strong community, [you should have] things that really speak to the different pockets of people that you have, so they feel like they're welcomed and encouraged to stay,” said Sarah Wasinger, Hays Chamber president and CEO. "This is just kind of a nice, organic way to have an actual conversation.”&nbsp;Each chapter of the book centers on a specific community concern, and each session will discuss the topic area, like water access, attracting business and engaging youth. These three are topics in the first session.&nbsp;“When they talk about engaging youth, what you’re&nbsp;really talking about is engaging younger families, younger professionals, as they move into town,” Hines said.The author “talks about board memberships. A lot of times, you don't see anybody on a board that's under 40 or 50 years old ... that turns young folks off when they're not engaged with these decisions.”&nbsp;Breaking into sessions helps foster discussion, Wasinger said. It allows for a diversity of thought from participants and helps keep young professionals in Ellis County.&nbsp;“When you don't talk to youth to see what things are important to them, it's very easy for them to want to locate somewhere else,” she said. "We need to be embracing those things and finding ways to keep them grounded here in Hays, not grounded in a bad term, but anchored in Hays and Ellis County.”&nbsp;The library has two copies of the book in stock.&nbsp;

🎙 Hays Chamber, Library team up for discussion of '13 Ways to Kill Your Community'

SALINA — 24/7 Travel Store is gearing up for its annual Food Bank Fill-Up campaign. The program will roll out Sept. 1 and run all month long in recognition of National Hunger Awareness Month and in support of nine Kansas food banks.

 In its sixth year, the program has returned with a goal to raise another $60,000 ($6,000 per store) in the fight against hunger.

“We are anticipating another successful year with this program. Last year was the program’s fifth anniversary and we were blown away by the support we received. 

"We raised over $71,000 for the nine Kansas communities we serve. It was our most successful campaign to date," said Jackie Hynes, director of marketing.

Proudly supporting these area food banks:

Abilene Area Food &amp; Clothing Bank (Abilene) • Community Care Ministries (Maple Hill) • Genesis Food Pantry of Sherman County (Goodland) • Genesis Food Pantry of Thomas County (Colby) • McPherson County Food Bank (McPherson) • Russell County Food Pantry (Russell) • Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank (Salina) • Trego County Food Pantry (WaKeeney)

"Since the program began in 2018, we’ve raised over a quarter million dollars in support of our local food banks. Our day-to-day business offers services to fuel vehicles. Hosting the Food Bank Fill-Up allows us to support organizations including your local food bank, that offers services that fuel the human body. We are driving out hunger— together,” said Hynes.

NATIONAL HUNGER ACTION DAY IS SEPTEMBER 23

On September 23, National Hunger Action Day— for one day only, 24/7 Travel Store locations will have food bank representatives onsite during select times accepting food items and monetary donations. 

“We encourage community members to plan their giving on this day, if possible. To take the opportunity to come inside and visit with their local food bank representative. Perhaps learn other ways they can be supportive or calm any doubts about the Food Bank Fill-Up funds donated staying local. We hosted this event last year and it was our biggest fundraising day, bringing in $3,674 collectively,” said Hynes. 

To learn what time your local food bank representative will be available instore, follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/247stores">24/7 Travel Store Facebook page</a>.

Travel Store has ten locations to serve guests and travelers along the Interstate 70 and Interstate 135 corridors throughout Kansas. These stores are operated by local teams that live and shop in the surrounding area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692644164997.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseSALINA — 24/7 Travel Store is gearing up for its annual Food Bank Fill-Up campaign. The program will roll out Sept. 1 and run all month long in recognition of National Hunger Awareness Month and in support of nine Kansas food banks. In its sixth year, the program has returned with a goal to raise another $60,000 ($6,000 per store) in the fight against hunger.“We are anticipating another successful year with this program. Last year was the program’s fifth anniversary and we were blown away by the support we received. "We raised over $71,000 for the nine Kansas communities we serve. It was our most successful campaign to date," said Jackie Hynes, director of marketing.Proudly supporting these area food banks: Abilene Area Food &amp; Clothing Bank (Abilene) • Community Care Ministries (Maple Hill) • Genesis Food Pantry of Sherman County (Goodland) • Genesis Food Pantry of Thomas County (Colby) • McPherson County Food Bank (McPherson) • Russell County Food Pantry (Russell) • Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank (Salina) • Trego County Food Pantry (WaKeeney)"Since the program began in 2018, we’ve raised over a quarter million dollars in support of our local food banks. Our day-to-day business offers services to fuel vehicles. Hosting the Food Bank Fill-Up allows us to support organizations including your local food bank, that offers services that fuel the human body. We are driving out hunger— together,” said Hynes.NATIONAL HUNGER ACTION DAY IS SEPTEMBER 23On September 23, National Hunger Action Day— for one day only, 24/7 Travel Store locations will have food bank representatives onsite during select times accepting food items and monetary donations. “We encourage community members to plan their giving on this day, if possible. To take the opportunity to come inside and visit with their local food bank representative. Perhaps learn other ways they can be supportive or calm any doubts about the Food Bank Fill-Up funds donated staying local. We hosted this event last year and it was our biggest fundraising day, bringing in $3,674 collectively,” said Hynes. To learn what time your local food bank representative will be available instore, follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/247stores">24/7 Travel Store Facebook page</a>.ABOUT 24/7 TRAVEL STORE&nbsp;Travel Store has ten locations to serve guests and travelers along the Interstate 70 and Interstate 135 corridors throughout Kansas. These stores are operated by local teams that live and shop in the surrounding area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

24/7 Travel Store annual food bank fill-up to benefit area food banks 

TOPEKA — Three Kansas school districts, including Logan, and two organizations were recently honored for outstanding practices in Child Nutrition and Wellness programs that help support the Kansans Can vision.

The Kansans Can 2022-2023 Best Practice Awards were presented by Cheryl Johnson, Child Nutrition and Wellness director for the Kansas State Department of Education during the Aug. 8 Kansas State Board of Education meeting in Topeka. This is the sixth year for the awards.

The Kansans Can vision, which was established by the state board in 2015, is Kansas leads the world in the success of each student.

Recipients of the Kansans Can Serve Local Foods award are Logan USD 326, DeSoto USD 232 and Quality Care Services Inc.

Logan USD 326 received a Farm to Plate sub-grant from the department&nbsp; as part of a USDA Farm to School grant. The district’s objective was to educate students as to where their food comes from and give them a sense of ownership as they were allowed to grow their own food that was then used for school meals.

Logan used grant funds to purchase grow lights for garden towers, which allowed students to increase the amount of produce grown. They also purchased a compost bin and a commercial dehydrator.

“Logan is a leader in serving local, quality foods in school meals and in teaching students where their food comes from,” Johnson said. “They are a mentor and inspiration to many other districts throughout the state showing that Kansans Can serve local foods in child nutrition programs.”

DeSoto USD 232 celebrated Farm to Fork Friday each Friday from August through October during the 2022-2023 school year. Every Friday, a different local produce item was sourced from local farms and served at lunch through the Kansas City Food Hub – a farmer cooperative wholesaler and retailer that partners with 30 local farmers.

Produce served included watermelon, grape tomatoes, sweet peppers, cucumbers, Fuji apples, romaine and sweet green peppers. Farmer information cards were posted during the lunch meal service so students could see where the produce came from.

Quality Care Services Inc. is a Child and Adult Care Food Program sponsor of child care homes. The organization was awarded a United States Department of Agriculture Edible Garden Turn-Key Grant effective July 2022 through June 2023. To apply for the grant, Quality Care Services needed community partnerships.

Quality Care Services partnered with Kansas Corn STEM and created a preschool curriculum that was offered free to all child care home providers through Kansas. Each of Quality Care Services’ child care home providers were given a local food bundle kit, which included a book on composting, container garden handouts and a sub-grant application for either a raised garden bed or hydroponic garden.

The organization successfully awarded 16 raised garden kits and 19 hydroponic garden kits. Providers grew more than 843 pounds of local food during the winter months.

“Quality Care is the first child care sponsor in Kansas to directly apply for a Farm to School Grant from USDA and is to be commended for its passion about serving quality local foods in day care homes, educating pre-K children about where their food comes from and creating a STEM curriculum,” Johnson said.

First Choice Support Services, a Child and Adult Care Food Program sponsor of child care homes, received the Kansans Can Step Up to Lead award. The organization faced staffing challenges during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“First Choice lost all personnel except the executive director and one enrollment specialist in February 2021,” Johnson said. “Lacy Schmidt stepped up to lead in a position where she was a new employee with no other experienced employees to mentor or guide her. She went above and beyond to learn and build competence in the program administration. She has maintained perfect attendance since her employment.”

One of Schmidt’s major accomplishments was the outreach she conducted to licensed child care home providers.

“At a time when there is a shortage of child care workers in Kansas, leadership to encourage day care home providers to participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program, which is an indicator of quality care, is to be commended,” Johnson said.

Lansing USD 469 received the Kansans Can Impact Wellness award. The district has an active wellness committee that meets regularly. As a team, the committee has set goals to impact wellness within Lansing USD 469. Goals include increasing visibility and interest within the community around creating a healthier school environment and incorporating social-emotional wellness into the wellness policies.

“Kansas State Board of Education Child Nutrition and Wellness supports schools in their wellness policy implementation by offering wellness coach visits to school districts,” Johnson said. “The wellness coach that assisted Lansing … was impressed with the work of this diverse community and how their strong policies and practices are truly impacting wellness in the Lansing schools and communities.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692645642859.jpeg" alt="USD 326 Logan is recognized for its outstanding practices in child nutrition and wellness by the Kansas State Department of Education. Photo courtesy KSDE" />
 <figcaption>USD 326 Logan is recognized for its outstanding practices in child nutrition and wellness by the Kansas State Department of Education. Photo courtesy KSDE</figcaption>
 </figure>KSDETOPEKA — Three Kansas school districts, including Logan, and two organizations were recently honored for outstanding practices in Child Nutrition and Wellness programs that help support the Kansans Can vision.The Kansans Can 2022-2023 Best Practice Awards were presented by Cheryl Johnson, Child Nutrition and Wellness director for the Kansas State Department of Education during the Aug. 8 Kansas State Board of Education meeting in Topeka. This is the sixth year for the awards.The Kansans Can vision, which was established by the state board in 2015, is Kansas leads the world in the success of each student.Recipients of the Kansans Can Serve Local Foods award are Logan USD 326, DeSoto USD 232 and Quality Care Services Inc.Logan USD 326 received a Farm to Plate sub-grant from the department&nbsp; as part of a USDA Farm to School grant. The district’s objective was to educate students as to where their food comes from and give them a sense of ownership as they were allowed to grow their own food that was then used for school meals.Logan used grant funds to purchase grow lights for garden towers, which allowed students to increase the amount of produce grown. They also purchased a compost bin and a commercial dehydrator.“Logan is a leader in serving local, quality foods in school meals and in teaching students where their food comes from,” Johnson said. “They are a mentor and inspiration to many other districts throughout the state showing that Kansans Can serve local foods in child nutrition programs.”DeSoto USD 232 celebrated Farm to Fork Friday each Friday from August through October during the 2022-2023 school year. Every Friday, a different local produce item was sourced from local farms and served at lunch through the Kansas City Food Hub – a farmer cooperative wholesaler and retailer that partners with 30 local farmers.Produce served included watermelon, grape tomatoes, sweet peppers, cucumbers, Fuji apples, romaine and sweet green peppers. Farmer information cards were posted during the lunch meal service so students could see where the produce came from.Quality Care Services Inc. is a Child and Adult Care Food Program sponsor of child care homes. The organization was awarded a United States Department of Agriculture Edible Garden Turn-Key Grant effective July 2022 through June 2023. To apply for the grant, Quality Care Services needed community partnerships.Quality Care Services partnered with Kansas Corn STEM and created a preschool curriculum that was offered free to all child care home providers through Kansas. Each of Quality Care Services’ child care home providers were given a local food bundle kit, which included a book on composting, container garden handouts and a sub-grant application for either a raised garden bed or hydroponic garden.The organization successfully awarded 16 raised garden kits and 19 hydroponic garden kits. Providers grew more than 843 pounds of local food during the winter months.“Quality Care is the first child care sponsor in Kansas to directly apply for a Farm to School Grant from USDA and is to be commended for its passion about serving quality local foods in day care homes, educating pre-K children about where their food comes from and creating a STEM curriculum,” Johnson said.First Choice Support Services, a Child and Adult Care Food Program sponsor of child care homes, received the Kansans Can Step Up to Lead award. The organization faced staffing challenges during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.“First Choice lost all personnel except the executive director and one enrollment specialist in February 2021,” Johnson said. “Lacy Schmidt stepped up to lead in a position where she was a new employee with no other experienced employees to mentor or guide her. She went above and beyond to learn and build competence in the program administration. She has maintained perfect attendance since her employment.”One of Schmidt’s major accomplishments was the outreach she conducted to licensed child care home providers.“At a time when there is a shortage of child care workers in Kansas, leadership to encourage day care home providers to participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program, which is an indicator of quality care, is to be commended,” Johnson said.Lansing USD 469 received the Kansans Can Impact Wellness award. The district has an active wellness committee that meets regularly. As a team, the committee has set goals to impact wellness within Lansing USD 469. Goals include increasing visibility and interest within the community around creating a healthier school environment and incorporating social-emotional wellness into the wellness policies.“Kansas State Board of Education Child Nutrition and Wellness supports schools in their wellness policy implementation by offering wellness coach visits to school districts,” Johnson said. “The wellness coach that assisted Lansing … was impressed with the work of this diverse community and how their strong policies and practices are truly impacting wellness in the Lansing schools and communities.”

USD 326 Logan among honorees for outstanding practices in child nutrition programs

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692713779093.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>

🎥 Green and Growing: Area gardens

Monday evening Fort Hays State University students gathered on the university quad to learn about various university organizations, programs and offerings along with community groups and businesses in Ellis County.

The annual tradition gives students an opportunity to learn about the community as the fall semester gets underway.

Take a look at some of the activities below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692719560661.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Monday evening Fort Hays State University students gathered on the university quad to learn about various university organizations, programs and offerings along with community groups and businesses in Ellis County.The annual tradition gives students an opportunity to learn about the community as the fall semester gets underway.Take a look at some of the activities below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692719642404.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692719569145.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692719579239.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692719550946.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692719600925.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692719611463.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692719621745.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692719631606.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692719589907.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692719651732.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692719662119.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

📷 FHSU students learn about university, community during Back to School picnic

GRAHAM COUNTY - Antelope Lake, an 80-acre public fishing impoundment, is located approximately 14 miles west of Hill City.

 The lake and surrounding park is owned by Graham County and the fishery is managed cooperatively by the county and Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

As part of fish management activities, KDWP collects fish population and angler use data at Antelope Lake. Standard sampling results reveal bluegill growth is relatively rapid. 

But creel survey results indicate bluegill are harvested by anglers at a relatively high rate. Taken together, angler harvest may limit bluegill population size structure quality.

To improve bluegill and other sunfish population dynamics at Antelope Lake, KDWP has implemented a 6 to 9 inch protected slot length limit on all sunfish species, including bluegill, green sunfish, redear sunfish, and their hybrids, a five-fish daily creel limit on sunfish nine inches and longer, and an unlimited daily creel limit on sunfish six inches and shorter.

For more information contact Dave Spalsbury, district fisheries biologist at 785-726-3212.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661515930844.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPGRAHAM COUNTY - Antelope Lake, an 80-acre public fishing impoundment, is located approximately 14 miles west of Hill City. The lake and surrounding park is owned by Graham County and the fishery is managed cooperatively by the county and Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.As part of fish management activities, KDWP collects fish population and angler use data at Antelope Lake. Standard sampling results reveal bluegill growth is relatively rapid. But creel survey results indicate bluegill are harvested by anglers at a relatively high rate. Taken together, angler harvest may limit bluegill population size structure quality.To improve bluegill and other sunfish population dynamics at Antelope Lake, KDWP has implemented a 6 to 9 inch protected slot length limit on all sunfish species, including bluegill, green sunfish, redear sunfish, and their hybrids, a five-fish daily creel limit on sunfish nine inches and longer, and an unlimited daily creel limit on sunfish six inches and shorter.For more information contact Dave Spalsbury, district fisheries biologist at 785-726-3212.

Special sunfish harvest regulations implemented at Antelope Lake

It has been a very challenging summer when it comes to controlling weeds in fallow and wheat stubble fields. With may wheat fields this year having short and thin stands and having very little crop canopy the weeds had very little competition to keep them at bay.

Combine that with a growing list of weeds that are now resistant to several different types of herbicides it makes you wonder if we’ll ever get a handle on effective weed control in these fallow cropping systems.

One weed control strategy that many times gets overlooked, and certainly underutilized, is planting cover crops during the fallow periods of the rotation.

Cover crops provide weed management benefits in several different ways. 

Many small, seeded weed species, like kochia, palmer amaranth and other pigweed species have better germination results when exposed to light. Living cover crops, or the residue that is left after it is terminated, reduces the sunlight reaching the soil surface thus reducing the number of weeds that come up. Cover crops also compete with weeds for moisture, nutrients and sunlight keeping the weeds in a weak, easier to kill condition if they do emerge. Some cover crop species, like rye and some brassicas, control weeds through a process called allelopathy. This is where decaying residue release chemicals that inhibit the germination of weed seeds.

Here are a few strategies to consider when utilizing cover crops for weed suppression in dryland cropping systems.

1. Know what your problem weeds are and get the cover crops well established before those weeds emerge. 

For western Kansas most of the time those weeds are going to be kochia and palmer amaranth. Kochia comes up early in the spring, so to get ahead of it a cover crop needs to be planted as soon as possible after the fall crops are harvested. If there is adequate moisture and enough time to get some decent growth I would plant in the fall. If soil moisture is short and it is getting late in the season, I would delay the planting to early spring.

2. Select species that grow aggressively and shade the ground quickly that provides a mat of biomass on the soil surface once the cover crop is terminated. 

For a late fall or early spring planting cereal grains like rye, triticale, barley, oats, and wheat work well. For a summer mix that is planted after wheat harvest, forage sorghums, sorghum sudans and millets are good species to use. Brassicas like turnips and radishes can also provide a fair amount of biomass before freezing out.

3. Take advantage of the allelopathy effect some species. This process works like using a preemergent herbicide. Once the cover crop is terminated, chemicals are released from the decomposing plant residue that inhibit weeds seeds from germinating. This works well in controlling palmer amaranth when terminating a cereal grain cover crop right around the time it is heading in early to mid-May.

4. Terminate the cover crop early if there is a persistent dry period and the long-term weather forecast is not favorable for adequate moisture to replenish the soil profile. 

The key to making cover crops work in these dryland fallow systems is for the cover crop to utilize the moisture we would lose any way through evaporation, runoff, and transpiration through weeds, but still leave adequate soil moisture for the next cash crop.

5. Always look at the economic side of things and compare your current weed control cost and what it will cost to incorporate cover crops into your system. Herbicide applications can get pricey, and many times don’t work well. Multiple tillage operations can also add up to a substantial amount of money.

Cover crops can help with weed suppression, but they are not a “silver bullet.” They are just another tool in the toolbox, that along with other weed control measures, can help in controlling weeds more effectively.

For more information about this or other soil health practices you can contact me at dale.younker@ks.usda.gov or any local NRCS office.

Dale Younker, is a soil health specialist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Jetmore.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628525048992.jpeg" alt="Dale Younker,&nbsp;is a soil health specialist with the&nbsp;Natural Resources Conservation Service in Jetmore. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dale Younker,&nbsp;is a soil health specialist with the&nbsp;Natural Resources Conservation Service in Jetmore. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>It has been a very challenging summer when it comes to controlling weeds in fallow and wheat stubble fields. With may wheat fields this year having short and thin stands and having very little crop canopy the weeds had very little competition to keep them at bay.Combine that with a growing list of weeds that are now resistant to several different types of herbicides it makes you wonder if we’ll ever get a handle on effective weed control in these fallow cropping systems.One weed control strategy that many times gets overlooked, and certainly underutilized, is planting cover crops during the fallow periods of the rotation.Cover crops provide weed management benefits in several different ways. Many small, seeded weed species, like kochia, palmer amaranth and other pigweed species have better germination results when exposed to light. Living cover crops, or the residue that is left after it is terminated, reduces the sunlight reaching the soil surface thus reducing the number of weeds that come up. Cover crops also compete with weeds for moisture, nutrients and sunlight keeping the weeds in a weak, easier to kill condition if they do emerge. Some cover crop species, like rye and some brassicas, control weeds through a process called allelopathy. This is where decaying residue release chemicals that inhibit the germination of weed seeds.Here are a few strategies to consider when utilizing cover crops for weed suppression in dryland cropping systems.1. Know what your problem weeds are and get the cover crops well established before those weeds emerge. For western Kansas most of the time those weeds are going to be kochia and palmer amaranth. Kochia comes up early in the spring, so to get ahead of it a cover crop needs to be planted as soon as possible after the fall crops are harvested. If there is adequate moisture and enough time to get some decent growth I would plant in the fall. If soil moisture is short and it is getting late in the season, I would delay the planting to early spring.2. Select species that grow aggressively and shade the ground quickly that provides a mat of biomass on the soil surface once the cover crop is terminated. For a late fall or early spring planting cereal grains like rye, triticale, barley, oats, and wheat work well. For a summer mix that is planted after wheat harvest, forage sorghums, sorghum sudans and millets are good species to use. Brassicas like turnips and radishes can also provide a fair amount of biomass before freezing out.3. Take advantage of the allelopathy effect some species. This process works like using a preemergent herbicide. Once the cover crop is terminated, chemicals are released from the decomposing plant residue that inhibit weeds seeds from germinating. This works well in controlling palmer amaranth when terminating a cereal grain cover crop right around the time it is heading in early to mid-May.4. Terminate the cover crop early if there is a persistent dry period and the long-term weather forecast is not favorable for adequate moisture to replenish the soil profile. The key to making cover crops work in these dryland fallow systems is for the cover crop to utilize the moisture we would lose any way through evaporation, runoff, and transpiration through weeds, but still leave adequate soil moisture for the next cash crop.5. Always look at the economic side of things and compare your current weed control cost and what it will cost to incorporate cover crops into your system. Herbicide applications can get pricey, and many times don’t work well. Multiple tillage operations can also add up to a substantial amount of money.Cover crops can help with weed suppression, but they are not a “silver bullet.” They are just another tool in the toolbox, that along with other weed control measures, can help in controlling weeds more effectively.For more information about this or other soil health practices you can contact me at dale.younker@ks.usda.gov or any local NRCS office.Dale Younker, is a soil health specialist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Jetmore.&nbsp;

YOUNKER: Using cover crops to manage weeds

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation is excited to announce the induction of Ron and Marsha Schilling, Edson, Kansas as the 2023 Wall of Honor inductee in a combination of presentations to be held at the Foundation’s 2023 Boots and Bling event and also during the Supreme Drive of the Kansas State Fair Open Beef Show. Ron and Marsha have been life-long supporters of the Kansas State Fair and the Kansas Beef Cattle Industry. Ron and Marsha developed a passion for agriculture and livestock from their respective parents and their involvement in 4-H livestock projects in Sherman County. They each separately started a purebred registered Limousin cowherd as part of their 4-H projects. Their involvement with the Kansas State Fair began when they attended and also then exhibited their animals in the 4-H livestock shows at the Fair. Having known each other through 4-H, Ron said he always had his eye on Marsha, but only had the guts to ask her out on a date after he went off to Colby Community College. There, he competed on the livestock judging team and learned to give a good set of reasons. The confidence gained from livestock judging finally gave him the courage to ask Marsha for a date. One date led to many dates, and in 1979 they married and “honeymooned” in Manhattan until 1981 when Ron finished his degree in Animal Science from Kansas State University. After Ron graduated from Kansas State University they moved back to Sherman County in northwest Kansas, where they’ve made their home, and been actively involved in production agriculture; raising crops, livestock, 3 wonderful sons and 4 perfect grandkids. In 2024, Ron and Marsha will celebrate 50 years of membership in the North American Limousin Foundation with the reputation of breeding top-quality Limousin cattle that worked for cattlemen across the country. In 2012, they added a registered Angus herd to their ranching operation. The Schillings have been selling registered seedstock for more than 40 years. They currently hold two auctions each year, selling show quality heifers in the fall and a production sale in the spring focusing on Limousin, Lim-Flex and Angus bulls along with a selection of high-quality replacement females. They’ve had a love for the Kansas State Fair since their youth. The idea for holding a Supreme Drive for the open beef show at the Kansas State Fair started in the early 2000’s while exhibiting open class cattle with their sons. The Grand Champions from each beef breed would compete for the title of Supreme Champion. This was prior to the building of the Prairie Pavilion complex, built in 2004. The Schilling’s know that the quality of the open show cattle exhibited at the Kansas State Fair helped set the standard for beef shows nationwide. Grand Champions from the Kansas State Fair often go on to win major livestock shows across the nation. After many conversations, persistence and getting a Fair Board that was willing to try something new, the idea gained momentum and in 2007 with the help of Ron Holland and Anne Lampe, the first Supreme Drive was held. According to the Schillings, it was a labor of love by many in the purebred beef industry to pull off this show. It highlights all the breed Grand Champions and allows one female and one bull the distinction of Supreme Champion of the Kansas State Fair. The Schillings noted the Supreme Drive has been blessed with great sponsors from the early years, many still sponsors to this day, and new sponsors who become part of the Supreme Drive fanfare with each new fair. Ron designed the trophy after hockey’s “Stanley Cup” Trophy, where the names of the winners’ names are added each year making the trophy bigger and more prestigious to win each year in succession. "Ron and Marsha have been integral to the Supreme Drive since its inception. In addition to being an open show exhibitor and sponsor, they’ve served as treasurer of the Supreme Drive Committee since the beginning. Ron sets up the Breed Champion display, ensuring each detail is coordinated from the breed stall signs, to personally welcoming the exhibitors. Marsha organizes the Supreme Drive reception, ordering the food and setting up the event for exhibitors and spectators.” said Anne Lampe, Kansas State Fair Beef Superintendent and Show Manager. Anne continued, “Ron and Marsha are deeply invested in the success of the open beef shows at the Kansas State Fair, I always know that if I need help with anything concerning the Supreme Drive, the Schilling family is ready to help." The Schillings feel honored to be a part of the development and continued success of the Open Beef Show Supreme Drive at the Kansas State Fair. While making a difference for Kansas State Fair, they have also been active members of their local community serving on the Extension Board, Farm Bureau Board, School Board, and as 4-H club leaders, 4-H Beef leaders, on the Northwest Kansas District Free Fair Carnival Board and they host the Tri-State Royal of Champions every August. They are also actively involved in the Goodland Church of Christ. Most recently served on the Topside Manor Board which helped pass a bond issue, design and built a state-of-the-art full care facility for the elderly of Northwest Kansas. Marsha currently serves on the Ground Water Board and Ron is the current President of the Sherman County Community Foundation. The Schillings have always believed that if we want the world to be a better place, we all need to start with our home community first.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information on how you can support the Wall of Honor and the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation please contact James Fisher, Executive Director, Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation at 620-615-7388 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:James.Fisher@KansasSFF.org">James.Fisher@KansasSFF.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692635660635.jpeg" alt="Ron and Marsha Schilling-Image Courtesy Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation" />
 <figcaption>Ron and Marsha Schilling-Image Courtesy Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Fairgrounds FoundationHUTCHINSON, Kan.— The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation is excited to announce the induction of Ron and Marsha Schilling, Edson, Kansas as the 2023 Wall of Honor inductee in a combination of presentations to be held at the Foundation’s 2023 Boots and Bling event and also during the Supreme Drive of the Kansas State Fair Open Beef Show. Ron and Marsha have been life-long supporters of the Kansas State Fair and the Kansas Beef Cattle Industry. Ron and Marsha developed a passion for agriculture and livestock from their respective parents and their involvement in 4-H livestock projects in Sherman County. They each separately started a purebred registered Limousin cowherd as part of their 4-H projects. Their involvement with the Kansas State Fair began when they attended and also then exhibited their animals in the 4-H livestock shows at the Fair. Having known each other through 4-H, Ron said he always had his eye on Marsha, but only had the guts to ask her out on a date after he went off to Colby Community College. There, he competed on the livestock judging team and learned to give a good set of reasons. The confidence gained from livestock judging finally gave him the courage to ask Marsha for a date. One date led to many dates, and in 1979 they married and “honeymooned” in Manhattan until 1981 when Ron finished his degree in Animal Science from Kansas State University. After Ron graduated from Kansas State University they moved back to Sherman County in northwest Kansas, where they’ve made their home, and been actively involved in production agriculture; raising crops, livestock, 3 wonderful sons and 4 perfect grandkids. In 2024, Ron and Marsha will celebrate 50 years of membership in the North American Limousin Foundation with the reputation of breeding top-quality Limousin cattle that worked for cattlemen across the country. In 2012, they added a registered Angus herd to their ranching operation. The Schillings have been selling registered seedstock for more than 40 years. They currently hold two auctions each year, selling show quality heifers in the fall and a production sale in the spring focusing on Limousin, Lim-Flex and Angus bulls along with a selection of high-quality replacement females. They’ve had a love for the Kansas State Fair since their youth. The idea for holding a Supreme Drive for the open beef show at the Kansas State Fair started in the early 2000’s while exhibiting open class cattle with their sons. The Grand Champions from each beef breed would compete for the title of Supreme Champion. This was prior to the building of the Prairie Pavilion complex, built in 2004. The Schilling’s know that the quality of the open show cattle exhibited at the Kansas State Fair helped set the standard for beef shows nationwide. Grand Champions from the Kansas State Fair often go on to win major livestock shows across the nation. After many conversations, persistence and getting a Fair Board that was willing to try something new, the idea gained momentum and in 2007 with the help of Ron Holland and Anne Lampe, the first Supreme Drive was held. According to the Schillings, it was a labor of love by many in the purebred beef industry to pull off this show. It highlights all the breed Grand Champions and allows one female and one bull the distinction of Supreme Champion of the Kansas State Fair. The Schillings noted the Supreme Drive has been blessed with great sponsors from the early years, many still sponsors to this day, and new sponsors who become part of the Supreme Drive fanfare with each new fair. Ron designed the trophy after hockey’s “Stanley Cup” Trophy, where the names of the winners’ names are added each year making the trophy bigger and more prestigious to win each year in succession. "Ron and Marsha have been integral to the Supreme Drive since its inception. In addition to being an open show exhibitor and sponsor, they’ve served as treasurer of the Supreme Drive Committee since the beginning. Ron sets up the Breed Champion display, ensuring each detail is coordinated from the breed stall signs, to personally welcoming the exhibitors. Marsha organizes the Supreme Drive reception, ordering the food and setting up the event for exhibitors and spectators.” said Anne Lampe, Kansas State Fair Beef Superintendent and Show Manager. Anne continued, “Ron and Marsha are deeply invested in the success of the open beef shows at the Kansas State Fair, I always know that if I need help with anything concerning the Supreme Drive, the Schilling family is ready to help." The Schillings feel honored to be a part of the development and continued success of the Open Beef Show Supreme Drive at the Kansas State Fair. While making a difference for Kansas State Fair, they have also been active members of their local community serving on the Extension Board, Farm Bureau Board, School Board, and as 4-H club leaders, 4-H Beef leaders, on the Northwest Kansas District Free Fair Carnival Board and they host the Tri-State Royal of Champions every August. They are also actively involved in the Goodland Church of Christ. Most recently served on the Topside Manor Board which helped pass a bond issue, design and built a state-of-the-art full care facility for the elderly of Northwest Kansas. Marsha currently serves on the Ground Water Board and Ron is the current President of the Sherman County Community Foundation. The Schillings have always believed that if we want the world to be a better place, we all need to start with our home community first.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For more information on how you can support the Wall of Honor and the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation please contact James Fisher, Executive Director, Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation at 620-615-7388 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:James.Fisher@KansasSFF.org">James.Fisher@KansasSFF.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;