&nbsp; Operators in The Sunflower State completed 29 wells last month. That's 874 so far this year, compared to 742 through the first six months of last year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 20 new well-completions west of Wichita, with three in Barton County, two are in Ellis County, and one is in Stafford County. Kansas regulators approved 17 new drilling locations in Kansas last week, with nine in Western Kansas. That's 651 new permits statewide so far this year, compared to 759 at the end of the second quarter of 2022. Kansas crude prices end the month of June at $61 per barrel, about thirty cents higher than the average for the month, and 75-cents higher than at the first of the month. The benchmark crude futures contract settled 78 cents higher on Friday, topping $70 for the first time in a week, but well within the ten-dollar trading range of the last three months. By Monday morning prices were a few cents higher, just under $71 a barrel in New York, and nearly $76 per barrel in London. The government reports a big drop in crude stockpiles. The Energy Information Administration said crude inventories as of June 23rd are about one percent below the five-year seasonal average at nearly 454 million barrels. That's down 9.6 million barrels for the week. Despite a long string of weekly increases, gasoline and diesel stockpiles are below average. EIA says gasoline inventories are seven percent below the five-year seasonal average, while diesel stocks are 14% below average. EIA reported crude production in the United States increased slightly to just over twelve-and-a-quarter million barrels per day. That's up two thousand barrels for the week, and 104-thousand barrels per day ahead of last year. The government said imports were up nearly half a million barrels per day from a week ago at 6.6 million barrels per day. The four-week average is slightly higher than the same four weeks last year. Weekly US drilling-rig tallies show a drop in exploration for natural gas. The aggregate total was 674 active rigs last week, down one oil rig and six gas rigs across the US. Baker Hughes noted a big swing in the Haynesville Shale formation of Louisiana and East Texas, the third-largest gas producing formation in the US. The count in Louisiana was down four rigs. Texas was also down four. Oklahoma was down two rigs from last week, while New Mexico was up by two active rigs. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service notes 16 active drilling rigs east of Wichita, which is up one, and 25 in Western Kansas, which is down one. The total counts lag behind last year by nearly 27% but are up nearly eight percent from a month ago. Drilling was underway on Friday on three leases in Barton County. Norway is moving forward with new offshore oil-and-gas investments that top $18 BILLION. The Energy Ministry on Wednesday announced 19 new developments, build-outs of existing fields and enhanced oil recovery projects in the North Sea and Norwegian Sea. Bloomberg reports Norway is now the biggest supplier of natural gas to Europe in the aftermath of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, and will likely continue to see strong demand as buyers turn their back on Russian energy. Crude storage at Cushing, Oklahoma storage hub rises to the highest level in two years. Reuters reports outages at a pair of Midwest refineries have backed up inventories even as increased flows arrived from Canada. Cushing is the delivery point for US crude futures. Stockpiles there have climbed for eight consecutive weeks after falling earlier in the year. Analysts suggest overseas demand and an end to the refinery outages should reverse the buildup. Data from the Energy Information Administration showed Cushing stockpiles rose to 42.1 million barrels in the week through June 9th. That's the highest level since since June 2021.

Editor's note:&nbsp; The story was updated to reflect proper credit for the information from the Independent Oil and Gas Service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592848084586.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By John P. Tretbar&nbsp; Operators in The Sunflower State completed 29 wells last month. That's 874 so far this year, compared to 742 through the first six months of last year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 20 new well-completions west of Wichita, with three in Barton County, two are in Ellis County, and one is in Stafford County. Kansas regulators approved 17 new drilling locations in Kansas last week, with nine in Western Kansas. That's 651 new permits statewide so far this year, compared to 759 at the end of the second quarter of 2022. Kansas crude prices end the month of June at $61 per barrel, about thirty cents higher than the average for the month, and 75-cents higher than at the first of the month. The benchmark crude futures contract settled 78 cents higher on Friday, topping $70 for the first time in a week, but well within the ten-dollar trading range of the last three months. By Monday morning prices were a few cents higher, just under $71 a barrel in New York, and nearly $76 per barrel in London. The government reports a big drop in crude stockpiles. The Energy Information Administration said crude inventories as of June 23rd are about one percent below the five-year seasonal average at nearly 454 million barrels. That's down 9.6 million barrels for the week. Despite a long string of weekly increases, gasoline and diesel stockpiles are below average. EIA says gasoline inventories are seven percent below the five-year seasonal average, while diesel stocks are 14% below average. EIA reported crude production in the United States increased slightly to just over twelve-and-a-quarter million barrels per day. That's up two thousand barrels for the week, and 104-thousand barrels per day ahead of last year. The government said imports were up nearly half a million barrels per day from a week ago at 6.6 million barrels per day. The four-week average is slightly higher than the same four weeks last year. Weekly US drilling-rig tallies show a drop in exploration for natural gas. The aggregate total was 674 active rigs last week, down one oil rig and six gas rigs across the US. Baker Hughes noted a big swing in the Haynesville Shale formation of Louisiana and East Texas, the third-largest gas producing formation in the US. The count in Louisiana was down four rigs. Texas was also down four. Oklahoma was down two rigs from last week, while New Mexico was up by two active rigs. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service notes 16 active drilling rigs east of Wichita, which is up one, and 25 in Western Kansas, which is down one. The total counts lag behind last year by nearly 27% but are up nearly eight percent from a month ago. Drilling was underway on Friday on three leases in Barton County. Norway is moving forward with new offshore oil-and-gas investments that top $18 BILLION. The Energy Ministry on Wednesday announced 19 new developments, build-outs of existing fields and enhanced oil recovery projects in the North Sea and Norwegian Sea. Bloomberg reports Norway is now the biggest supplier of natural gas to Europe in the aftermath of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, and will likely continue to see strong demand as buyers turn their back on Russian energy. Crude storage at Cushing, Oklahoma storage hub rises to the highest level in two years. Reuters reports outages at a pair of Midwest refineries have backed up inventories even as increased flows arrived from Canada. Cushing is the delivery point for US crude futures. Stockpiles there have climbed for eight consecutive weeks after falling earlier in the year. Analysts suggest overseas demand and an end to the refinery outages should reverse the buildup. Data from the Energy Information Administration showed Cushing stockpiles rose to 42.1 million barrels in the week through June 9th. That's the highest level since since June 2021.Editor's note:&nbsp; The story was updated to reflect proper credit for the information from the Independent Oil and Gas Service.

News from the Oil Patch: Permits, completions rise in Kansas 

Congratulations to our most recent instant finalists in the Keystone Light UTV Giveaway.

Roy and Jenny signed up at the Wild West Festival Friday night.

Your next chance to sign up is at Discount Smokes Friday.

The Keystone Light UTV Giveaway is made possible by A&amp;A Coors and Advantage Glass Plus.

If you would like the  Keystone Light UTV to come to your business, call 785-259-8000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688389669905.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to our most recent instant finalists in the Keystone Light UTV Giveaway. Roy Inlow and Jenny Leiker Roy and Jenny signed up at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Your next chance to sign up is at Discount Smokes Friday. The Keystone Light UTV Giveaway is made possible by A&amp;A Coors and Advantage Glass Plus.If you would like the Keystone Light UTV to come to your business, call 785-259-8000.

Wild West finalists named for Keystone UTV; more chances to win

SHERMAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Friday in Sherman County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford F250 pulling a camper and driven by Bert L. Powers, 70, Liberty, Missouri,&nbsp;was westbound on Interstate 70 a mile and one half east of County Road 5.

The vehicle was traveling approximately 45 mph and exiting onto the shoulder.

 A gust of wind flipped the vehicle onto its side.

EMS transported a passenger Kandi R. Powers, 63, Liberty, Missouri, to the hospital in Goodland.&nbsp; The driver was not injured.&nbsp;Three juveniles were also in the vehicle, according to the KHP. The National Weather Service issued numerous storm alerts in northwest Kansas Friday afternoon and evening.

SHERMAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Friday in Sherman County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford F250 pulling a camper and driven by Bert L. Powers, 70, Liberty, Missouri,&nbsp;was westbound on Interstate 70 a mile and one half east of County Road 5.The vehicle was traveling approximately 45 mph and exiting onto the shoulder. A gust of wind flipped the vehicle onto its side.EMS transported a passenger Kandi R. Powers, 63, Liberty, Missouri, to the hospital in Goodland.&nbsp; The driver was not injured.&nbsp;Three juveniles were also in the vehicle, according to the KHP. The National Weather Service issued numerous storm alerts in northwest Kansas Friday afternoon and evening.

Woman injured after wind flips pickup, camper on I-70

OSBORNE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Saturday in Osborne County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Kenworth semi driven by Thomas William Leaman, 52, Piedmont, South Dakota, was northbound on U.S. 281 three miles south of Osborne.

The semi left the road, entered the east ditch and rolled.

EMS transported Leaman to the Osborne County Memorial Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

OSBORNE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Saturday in Osborne County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Kenworth semi driven by Thomas William Leaman, 52, Piedmont, South Dakota, was northbound on U.S. 281 three miles south of Osborne.The semi left the road, entered the east ditch and rolled.EMS transported Leaman to the Osborne County Memorial Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Man hospitalized after semi rolls into ditch

By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays Post

The grind of football is nothing new to Jared Casey and Hayden Gillum.

Former walk-ons for Big XII teams, they are now in their teams’ starting rotations – Jared for the University of Kansas in Lawrence and Hayden for Kansas State University in Manhattan.

But there they were Friday morning, sitting at a table at Applebee’s Grill + Bar Restaurant in Hays, looking a little uncomfortable and at times even breaking a sweat.

Just like they have done with grueling football practices for many years, the duo from nearby Plainville took it all in stride.

During a two-hour time period, they rehearsed and repeated lines over and over – and over again – until they got it just right for a 30-second video.

That’s what happens when you are chosen to do a commercial for a regional franchise.

The lead-in to the commercial has Jared telling Hayden, “Hey, look at us,” and Hayden asking who would have thought that two guys from Plainville (population 1,750) would be starters for the Big XII teams in Kansas.

This was old hat for Jared, who had done two similar commercials at the Applebee’s location in Lawrence. The first one came after he scored a 2-point conversion to beat Texas during his freshman season. He also was in a second commercial last season with KU quarterback Jason Daniels.

This one, however, was close to home, in a restaurant where both he and Hayden remember eating after games and on weekends during their high school days. And this time, they had lots of spectators, as more than a dozen family and friends huddled in the background to watch.

Someone asked Jared if this was harder than playing in front of 50,000 screaming fans.

“Yes, it is,” he said. “There was more pressure this time with people watching.”

But pressure is something these two young men have learned to embrace, dating way back to their childhood and in high school, where they played together for two years.

After graduating from PHS in 2018 following a standout three-sport career, Hayden took off for Kansas State, the school for which he had been a fan all his life. The Wildcats were the only NCAA Division I team to give him a look, so he walked on.

Jared, who also starred in three sports at Plainville, had dreams of playing linebacker at the D-I level – specifically for the University of Nebraska, the team he rooted for since he was youngster. But like Hayden, only one D-I school even offered Jared a walk-on opportunity. So Jared packed his bags for Lawrence.

Hayden and Jared both jumped at the chance to just get on the field, even if that meant changing positions.

Hayden mostly played defense in high school but moved to offense at K-State and worked his way up to the starting center position – and eventually earned a full scholarship.

“It took me quite a while to get to where I am now,” Hayden said, “but I just stayed the course and kept working.”

The strong work ethic and resiliency of folks from western Kansas is nothing new.

Jared scrapped his dream to play linebacker when the Jayhawks offered him the opportunity to try out at fullback as a preferred walk-on. A new coach brought in a new offense that didn’t feature a fullback, so Jared moved to tight end. By the start of his sophomore season, he also was on scholarship.

At 6 feet tall and 255 pounds, Jared is the shortest tight end in the Big XII.

“Six-three is average height of the tight ends,” he said. “I just have to try to overpower them and use good technique.”&nbsp;

Jared played a key role in the Jayhawks qualifying for a bowl game last season for the first time since 2008 following their 6-6 regular-season performance. The last time before 2022 that KU football won more than three games in a season, Jared was a first-grader.&nbsp;

After falling behind by 25 points to Arkansas in the third quarter of the Liberty Bowl, the Jayhawks came storming back for an exhilerating finish.

They tied the game with 41 seconds left in regulation to send the game into overtime. Jared scored a touchdown in the first OT and added a 2-point conversion in the second extra period to force a third overtime to decide the winner. KU eventually lost by two points, 55-53, in the high-scoring affair but gave fans something to forward to for the next season.

Hayden (6-foot-3, 294 pounds) helped Kansas State win its first Big XII title in 10 years. The Wildcats finished the regular season with a 10-3 record before falling to perennial powerhouse Alabama in the Sugar Bowl.

Following such breakthrough years for their teams, Jared and Hayden are preparing for next season with zest. Jared will be a junior eligibility-wise, while the 2023 campaign will mark Hayden’s last time in a Wildcat uniform.

They will be able to eat for free for a while after receiving several Applebee’s gift cards along with a compensation check for the commercial from Dave Phillips, marketing director of Applebee’s of Kansas, who is based out of Wichita.

Phillips said that the company jumped on doing commercials with college student-athletes immediately after Kansas athletes became eligible for the name, image and likeness compensation (NIL) in the summer of 2021.

“We knew this was going to be a blast,” Phillips said. “It’s the favorite part of my job. It definitely helps us with our image. It’s a lot of fun for the athletes and their families. And we get to meet a lot of really great people.”

Phillips said Jared’s first commercial in fall 2021 that focused on Applebee’s “2-for-22” special – which consists of two entrees and a full-size appetizer for $22 – wrote itself because of his winning 2-point conversion vs. Texas. Last year’s commercial played on KU’s success in becoming bowl-eligible.

One day last spring while having lunch with Jared’s older brother, Justin Casey, Phillips mentioned that he wished he knew of a Kansas State player that he could include in the commercial.

“Well, I have just the player for you,” Justin told Phillips, “and you aren’t going to believe this. He’s from Plainville, too.”

And so began the planning for two former teammates who still cheer for each other on and off the field – except when they are playing against one another – to team up for a commercial.

“This was so much fun,” said Dorothy Stieben, one of Jared’s aunts who lives in Hays and showed up at Applebee’s Friday morning. “They both make us all so proud.”

Jared’s parents, Jerry and Karen Casey, and several other family members, came to watch. So, too, did Hayden’s wife, Preston, and his older brother Hadley Gillum, a former Fort Hays State University basketball standout who lives in Hays.

Phillips said he didn’t mind the crowd. After all, Jared and Hayden are the pride of Plainville – and all of western Kansas.

Toward the end of the commercial, Hayden teases Jared about blinding him with the gleam of his Big XII championship ring.&nbsp;

Quick on the draw, Jared pulls out a larger-than-life gift certificate that says it “allows Jared Casey free Applebee’s 4 Life.”

“No, I’ve got this,” Jared says with a wink.

Oh, yes, Jared Casey, you’ve got this. And so does Hayden Gillum.

True to form, Jared and Hayden signed items for fans after the commercial shoot, even before taking time to eat their own lunches. Then both took off for a few days away from football to enjoy the holiday weekend with their families before returning to their respective campuses.

KU and K-State fans are excited to see the newest Applebee’s commercial, which will air before the start of the 2023 season.

They’re also looking forward to watching some competitive Big XII football across the Sunflower State this fall.

No doubt, some of the loudest cheering fans wearing the crimson and blue of KU and the purple and white of K-State will be from western Kansas, and you might even hear them shout, “Hey, look at us now!”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688244011256.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688273715349.jpeg" alt="Plainville residents Hayden Gillum, left, and Jared Casey – starters for the football teams at Kansas State and Kansas, respectively – will be featured in an Applebee’s commercial before the start of the 2023 season. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien" />
 <figcaption>Plainville residents Hayden Gillum, left, and Jared Casey – starters for the football teams at Kansas State and Kansas, respectively – will be featured in an Applebee’s commercial before the start of the 2023 season. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien</figcaption>
 </figure>By DIANE GASPER-O’BRIEN Special to Hays PostThe grind of football is nothing new to Jared Casey and Hayden Gillum.Former walk-ons for Big XII teams, they are now in their teams’ starting rotations – Jared for the University of Kansas in Lawrence and Hayden for Kansas State University in Manhattan.But there they were Friday morning, sitting at a table at Applebee’s Grill + Bar Restaurant in Hays, looking a little uncomfortable and at times even breaking a sweat.Just like they have done with grueling football practices for many years, the duo from nearby Plainville took it all in stride.During a two-hour time period, they rehearsed and repeated lines over and over – and over again – until they got it just right for a 30-second video.That’s what happens when you are chosen to do a commercial for a regional franchise.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688274025447.jpeg" alt="Working under lights and cameras of a different sort, Big XII football players Hayden Gillum, left, and Jared Casey concentrate while making a commercial for Applebee’s in Hays. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien" />
 <figcaption>Working under lights and cameras of a different sort, Big XII football players Hayden Gillum, left, and Jared Casey concentrate while making a commercial for Applebee’s in Hays. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien</figcaption>
 </figure>The lead-in to the commercial has Jared telling Hayden, “Hey, look at us,” and Hayden asking who would have thought that two guys from Plainville (population 1,750) would be starters for the Big XII teams in Kansas.This was old hat for Jared, who had done two similar commercials at the Applebee’s location in Lawrence. The first one came after he scored a 2-point conversion to beat Texas during his freshman season. He also was in a second commercial last season with KU quarterback Jason Daniels.This one, however, was close to home, in a restaurant where both he and Hayden remember eating after games and on weekends during their high school days. And this time, they had lots of spectators, as more than a dozen family and friends huddled in the background to watch.Someone asked Jared if this was harder than playing in front of 50,000 screaming fans.“Yes, it is,” he said. “There was more pressure this time with people watching.”But pressure is something these two young men have learned to embrace, dating way back to their childhood and in high school, where they played together for two years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688274101130.jpeg" alt="Left: KU’s Justin Casey scores 2 points in last year’s Liberty Bowl to tie the score in overtime vs. Arkansas. Right: Hayden Gillum is the starting center for Kansas State. Submitted photos." />
 <figcaption>Left: KU’s Justin Casey scores 2 points in last year’s Liberty Bowl to tie the score in overtime vs. Arkansas. Right: Hayden Gillum is the starting center for Kansas State. Submitted photos.</figcaption>
 </figure>After graduating from PHS in 2018 following a standout three-sport career, Hayden took off for Kansas State, the school for which he had been a fan all his life. The Wildcats were the only NCAA Division I team to give him a look, so he walked on.Jared, who also starred in three sports at Plainville, had dreams of playing linebacker at the D-I level – specifically for the University of Nebraska, the team he rooted for since he was youngster. But like Hayden, only one D-I school even offered Jared a walk-on opportunity. So Jared packed his bags for Lawrence.Hayden and Jared both jumped at the chance to just get on the field, even if that meant changing positions.Hayden mostly played defense in high school but moved to offense at K-State and worked his way up to the starting center position – and eventually earned a full scholarship.“It took me quite a while to get to where I am now,” Hayden said, “but I just stayed the course and kept working.”The strong work ethic and resiliency of folks from western Kansas is nothing new.Jared scrapped his dream to play linebacker when the Jayhawks offered him the opportunity to try out at fullback as a preferred walk-on. A new coach brought in a new offense that didn’t feature a fullback, so Jared moved to tight end. By the start of his sophomore season, he also was on scholarship.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688274177579.jpeg" alt="Jared Casey goes over his lines for an Applebee’s commercial with Justin McClure, left, owner of Justin McClure Creative, and Ryan Entz, senior director of operations for Applebee’s of Kansas. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien" />
 <figcaption>Jared Casey goes over his lines for an Applebee’s commercial with Justin McClure, left, owner of Justin McClure Creative, and Ryan Entz, senior director of operations for Applebee’s of Kansas. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien</figcaption>
 </figure>At 6 feet tall and 255 pounds, Jared is the shortest tight end in the Big XII.“Six-three is average height of the tight ends,” he said. “I just have to try to overpower them and use good technique.”&nbsp;Jared played a key role in the Jayhawks qualifying for a bowl game last season for the first time since 2008 following their 6-6 regular-season performance. The last time before 2022 that KU football won more than three games in a season, Jared was a first-grader.&nbsp;After falling behind by 25 points to Arkansas in the third quarter of the Liberty Bowl, the Jayhawks came storming back for an exhilerating finish.They tied the game with 41 seconds left in regulation to send the game into overtime. Jared scored a touchdown in the first OT and added a 2-point conversion in the second extra period to force a third overtime to decide the winner. KU eventually lost by two points, 55-53, in the high-scoring affair but gave fans something to forward to for the next season.Hayden (6-foot-3, 294 pounds) helped Kansas State win its first Big XII title in 10 years. The Wildcats finished the regular season with a 10-3 record before falling to perennial powerhouse Alabama in the Sugar Bowl.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688274264861.jpeg" alt="Justin Casey, left, and Hadley Gillum enjoy watching their younger brothers film an Applebee’s commercial. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien" />
 <figcaption>Justin Casey, left, and Hadley Gillum enjoy watching their younger brothers film an Applebee’s commercial. Photo by Diane Gasper-O’Brien</figcaption>
 </figure>Following such breakthrough years for their teams, Jared and Hayden are preparing for next season with zest. Jared will be a junior eligibility-wise, while the 2023 campaign will mark Hayden’s last time in a Wildcat uniform.They will be able to eat for free for a while after receiving several Applebee’s gift cards along with a compensation check for the commercial from Dave Phillips, marketing director of Applebee’s of Kansas, who is based out of Wichita.Phillips said that the company jumped on doing commercials with college student-athletes immediately after Kansas athletes became eligible for the name, image and likeness compensation (NIL) in the summer of 2021.“We knew this was going to be a blast,” Phillips said. “It’s the favorite part of my job. It definitely helps us with our image. It’s a lot of fun for the athletes and their families. And we get to meet a lot of really great people.”Phillips said Jared’s first commercial in fall 2021 that focused on Applebee’s “2-for-22” special – which consists of two entrees and a full-size appetizer for $22 – wrote itself because of his winning 2-point conversion vs. Texas. Last year’s commercial played on KU’s success in becoming bowl-eligible.One day last spring while having lunch with Jared’s older brother, Justin Casey, Phillips mentioned that he wished he knew of a Kansas State player that he could include in the commercial.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688274327178.jpeg" alt="Jared Casey, left, was an avid football fan from early on, as was Hayden Gillum, middle, pictured with his older brother, Hadley, and K-State’s Willie the Wildcat. Submitted photos." />
 <figcaption>Jared Casey, left, was an avid football fan from early on, as was Hayden Gillum, middle, pictured with his older brother, Hadley, and K-State’s Willie the Wildcat. Submitted photos.</figcaption>
 </figure>Justin grinned and shook his head.“Well, I have just the player for you,” Justin told Phillips, “and you aren’t going to believe this. He’s from Plainville, too.”And so began the planning for two former teammates who still cheer for each other on and off the field – except when they are playing against one another – to team up for a commercial.“This was so much fun,” said Dorothy Stieben, one of Jared’s aunts who lives in Hays and showed up at Applebee’s Friday morning. “They both make us all so proud.”Jared’s parents, Jerry and Karen Casey, and several other family members, came to watch. So, too, did Hayden’s wife, Preston, and his older brother Hadley Gillum, a former Fort Hays State University basketball standout who lives in Hays.Phillips said he didn’t mind the crowd. After all, Jared and Hayden are the pride of Plainville – and all of western Kansas.Toward the end of the commercial, Hayden teases Jared about blinding him with the gleam of his Big XII championship ring.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688274409910.jpeg" alt="Hayden Gillum shows off his Big XII championship T-shirt last fall. Submitted photo." />
 <figcaption>Hayden Gillum shows off his Big XII championship T-shirt last fall. Submitted photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>Quick on the draw, Jared pulls out a larger-than-life gift certificate that says it “allows Jared Casey free Applebee’s 4 Life.”“No, I’ve got this,” Jared says with a wink.Oh, yes, Jared Casey, you’ve got this. And so does Hayden Gillum.True to form, Jared and Hayden signed items for fans after the commercial shoot, even before taking time to eat their own lunches. Then both took off for a few days away from football to enjoy the holiday weekend with their families before returning to their respective campuses.KU and K-State fans are excited to see the newest Applebee’s commercial, which will air before the start of the 2023 season.They’re also looking forward to watching some competitive Big XII football across the Sunflower State this fall.No doubt, some of the loudest cheering fans wearing the crimson and blue of KU and the purple and white of K-State will be from western Kansas, and you might even hear them shout, “Hey, look at us now!”

N'Wester: Plainville football players, Big XII starters,  featured in Applebee’s commercial

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9423cba1-271d-4c7c-8a5e-2207b22bfeea">See photos from Thursday night's performers by clicking here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238667999.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238678388.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238690228.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238700731.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238710730.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238657912.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238721671.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238731566.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238746387.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238757674.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238768423.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238779202.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238789737.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238806266.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238817089.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238827342.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238839091.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238879371.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238889680.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238901224.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238911725.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238922137.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238931659.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238956102.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238970052.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238983849.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688406412203.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688238997750.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688331945842.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688331986257.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688332010690.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688332055475.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688332081891.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688332104841.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688332126226.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688332145524.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688332201492.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688334005796.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688334023381.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688334039764.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688334054647.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688334069530.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688334083510.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688334100229.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688334115880.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688334130079.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688334144397.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688334160279.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9423cba1-271d-4c7c-8a5e-2207b22bfeea">See photos from Thursday night's performers by clicking here.</a>

📷 Wild West Festival 2023: Parade, Saturday concert

July 5 Downs Blood Drive 1:00-6:00 PM Downs Memorial Hall, 500 Morgan Ave, Downs

July 8-9, 14-15 Bull City Roughriders KWHA Show Roughriders Arena, 2460 W. 70th&nbsp;Dr, Alton 67623

Time to be determined.&nbsp;Shows are open to everyone, all skill levels and ages. Find out more by following the Bull City Roughriders Saddle Club on Facebook

July 26-30 Osborne County Fair Osborne Fairgrounds, 214 County Road, Osborne

<a href="https://www.postrock.k-state.edu/4-h/county-fairs/osbornefair/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.postrock.k-state.edu/4-h/county-fairs/osbornefair/index.html</a>

July 5 Downs Blood Drive 1:00-6:00 PM Downs Memorial Hall, 500 Morgan Ave, DownsJuly 8-9, 14-15 Bull City Roughriders KWHA Show Roughriders Arena, 2460 W. 70th&nbsp;Dr, Alton 67623Time to be determined.&nbsp;Shows are open to everyone, all skill levels and ages. Find out more by following the Bull City Roughriders Saddle Club on FacebookJuly 26-30 Osborne County Fair Osborne Fairgrounds, 214 County Road, Osborne<a href="https://www.postrock.k-state.edu/4-h/county-fairs/osbornefair/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.postrock.k-state.edu/4-h/county-fairs/osbornefair/index.html</a>

Osborne County event for July 

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), Office of the State Fire Marshal and Safe Kids Kansas would like to share some important safety tips to ensure that all Kansans have a safe and fun Independence Day this year.

In 2022, there were a total of 102 injuries caused by fireworks in Kansas.&nbsp;The person igniting the firework was most likely to be injured,&nbsp;and the hands were the most common body part to be injured.&nbsp;Over half of the injuries that occurred from fireworks that happened on July Fourth were from burns. There was a 43 percent decrease in reported injuries from 2021.

Each age group saw a decrease except for a slight increase in 0-3 year-olds. The highest incidents of injuries were caused by mortars or artillery fireworks and other fireworks like parachutes, fountains and spinning items. This&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.OCCrgob1Wg4Ou8H9p2dQwmt-IEhZ5yr-pGodQ8X8qV0/s/1305913542/br/212032640210-l" target="_blank">data was collected through voluntary reporting</a>&nbsp;from Kansas hospitals and administered by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

“Remember that fireworks are explosives and should be handled with care,”&nbsp;Cherie Sage, director of Safe Kids Kansas,&nbsp;said. “Children should not light fireworks, including sparklers, which burn at a temperature hot enough to melt glass. We encourage parents to let their little ones use glow sticks instead of sparklers and leave the rest to grownups.”

Grilling is another favorite part of many summertime gatherings. Make sure grills are used outdoors only, away from the home and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. Keep children and pets away from the grill area and never leave your grill unattended. Clean your grill regularly to prevent grease fires.

“We want everyone to have a fun and safe celebration on Independence Day,”&nbsp;Doug Jorgensen, state fire marshal, said. &nbsp;“Taking a few simple precautions if you’re lighting off fireworks or grilling can ensure that your family and friends are safe and injury free this fourth of July. If possible, go to a public fireworks display, and let the trained professionals handle the risks.”

Here are some tips to keep your celebrations safe:

Bottle rockets are illegal and M80 type of “fireworks” are considered explosives, and it is a felony in Kansas to possess, manufacture or use, as well as being extremely dangerous. The use or sale of these banned fireworks and explosives is considered a crime under Kansas law. It is also illegal in Kansas to shoot fireworks on or under any vehicle, on any public roadway, within 50 feet of a fireworks stand or where fireworks are stored, and at gas stations or any place liquid gas – including propane – is stored.

Always refer to the local ordinances as to whether fireworks are allowed in your area as well as what types.&nbsp; Some cities or counties have restricted dates/times or types of fireworks that may be sold or discharged.

In addition, out of respect for veterans when it comes to the individual discharge of fireworks, please keep in mind the noise and stress (PTSD) your activities may cause near VA facilities.

For more information on fireworks safety, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://firemarshal.ks.gov/216/" target="_blank">firemarshal.ks.gov/216/</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuc2FmZWtpZHNrYW5zYXMub3JnLz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNjI5Ljc4OTcwMzgxIn0.vyGgGuEwso3jH_jOoil-ChGHS2T4xnb6XuxgKFaVL1s/s/1305913542/br/212032640210-l" target="_blank">safekidskansas.org/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688053859994.png" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseTOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), Office of the State Fire Marshal and Safe Kids Kansas would like to share some important safety tips to ensure that all Kansans have a safe and fun Independence Day this year.In 2022, there were a total of 102 injuries caused by fireworks in Kansas.&nbsp;The person igniting the firework was most likely to be injured,&nbsp;and the hands were the most common body part to be injured.&nbsp;Over half of the injuries that occurred from fireworks that happened on July Fourth were from burns. There was a 43 percent decrease in reported injuries from 2021.Each age group saw a decrease except for a slight increase in 0-3 year-olds. The highest incidents of injuries were caused by mortars or artillery fireworks and other fireworks like parachutes, fountains and spinning items. This&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.OCCrgob1Wg4Ou8H9p2dQwmt-IEhZ5yr-pGodQ8X8qV0/s/1305913542/br/212032640210-l" target="_blank">data was collected through voluntary reporting</a>&nbsp;from Kansas hospitals and administered by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.“Remember that fireworks are explosives and should be handled with care,”&nbsp;Cherie Sage, director of Safe Kids Kansas,&nbsp;said. “Children should not light fireworks, including sparklers, which burn at a temperature hot enough to melt glass. We encourage parents to let their little ones use glow sticks instead of sparklers and leave the rest to grownups.”Grilling is another favorite part of many summertime gatherings. Make sure grills are used outdoors only, away from the home and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. Keep children and pets away from the grill area and never leave your grill unattended. Clean your grill regularly to prevent grease fires.“We want everyone to have a fun and safe celebration on Independence Day,”&nbsp;Doug Jorgensen, state fire marshal, said. &nbsp;“Taking a few simple precautions if you’re lighting off fireworks or grilling can ensure that your family and friends are safe and injury free this fourth of July. If possible, go to a public fireworks display, and let the trained professionals handle the risks.”Here are some tips to keep your celebrations safe:<ul>
 <li>Have adults supervise children and pets around grills and fireworks.</li><li>Designate a child-free safety zone around grills and areas where fireworks are being lit.</li><li>Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.</li><li>Fireworks should only be handled by adults. Consider giving children glow sticks, which also help you see little ones after dark.</li><li>Have a water supply ready, such as a bucket of water or garden hose.</li><li>Dispose of used fireworks carefully, as they may reignite.</li><li>Keep a first-aid kit available and nearby.</li><li>Ignite fireworks outdoors on a flat surface.</li><li>Light only one firework at a time.</li><li>Never stand over fireworks when lighting or holding a firework in your hand when lighting the fuse and wear eye protection.</li><li>Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.</li><li>Never attempt to make your own fireworks.</li>
 </ul>Bottle rockets are illegal and M80 type of “fireworks” are considered explosives, and it is a felony in Kansas to possess, manufacture or use, as well as being extremely dangerous. The use or sale of these banned fireworks and explosives is considered a crime under Kansas law. It is also illegal in Kansas to shoot fireworks on or under any vehicle, on any public roadway, within 50 feet of a fireworks stand or where fireworks are stored, and at gas stations or any place liquid gas – including propane – is stored.Always refer to the local ordinances as to whether fireworks are allowed in your area as well as what types.&nbsp; Some cities or counties have restricted dates/times or types of fireworks that may be sold or discharged.In addition, out of respect for veterans when it comes to the individual discharge of fireworks, please keep in mind the noise and stress (PTSD) your activities may cause near VA facilities.For more information on fireworks safety, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://firemarshal.ks.gov/216/" target="_blank">firemarshal.ks.gov/216/</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuc2FmZWtpZHNrYW5zYXMub3JnLz91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNjI5Ljc4OTcwMzgxIn0.vyGgGuEwso3jH_jOoil-ChGHS2T4xnb6XuxgKFaVL1s/s/1305913542/br/212032640210-l" target="_blank">safekidskansas.org/</a>.

KS Fire Marshal: Keep your Independence Day safe with a few tips from the experts

Due to the upcoming holiday July 4th, there will be no trash collection on Tuesday. Trash and recycling collection normally scheduled on Tuesday will be picked up on Monday along with the normal Monday collection. 

Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday collections will be picked up on their normal days.

Although collections may not occur on your normal day, collections will be completed during the week. &nbsp;It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. &nbsp;Please make sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 a.m., and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.

City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605721681274.jpeg" alt="File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysDue to the upcoming holiday July 4th, there will be no trash collection on Tuesday. Trash and recycling collection normally scheduled on Tuesday will be picked up on Monday along with the normal Monday collection. Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday collections will be picked up on their normal days.Although collections may not occur on your normal day, collections will be completed during the week. &nbsp;It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. &nbsp;Please make sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 a.m., and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.City of Hays customers that may have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

Tuesday's trash/recycle collection moved to Monday in Hays for holiday schedule

<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/2023/7/1688235876393.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

WICHITA - More than 2,060 students completed a total of 2,293 degrees at Wichita State University in spring 2023. 

The breakdown of degrees and certificates granted includes:

• Undergraduate: 1,361 degrees and certificates for 1,233 undergraduate students • Graduate: 932 degrees and certificates for 827 graduate students

Lexie T. Rome, Ellis - Master of Education, Sport Management Mulu H. Bannister, Hays - Bachelor of Business Admin., Info Tech &amp; Mgmt Infor Systems, Magna Cum Laude Alan J. Dick, Hays,&nbsp; - Bachelor of Arts in Education, ECU/Elementary Educ Apprentice, Magna Cum Laude

Undergraduate students who have attained a grade point average of 3.9 out of a possible 4.0 received the summa cum laude award; those with an average of 3.55 received the magna cum laude award; and those with an average of 3.25 received the cum laude award.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688048503788.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WSUWICHITA - More than 2,060 students completed a total of 2,293 degrees at Wichita State University in spring 2023. The breakdown of degrees and certificates granted includes:• Undergraduate: 1,361 degrees and certificates for 1,233 undergraduate students • Graduate: 932 degrees and certificates for 827 graduate students Ellis County graduates include:&nbsp;Lexie T. Rome, Ellis - Master of Education, Sport Management Mulu H. Bannister, Hays - Bachelor of Business Admin., Info Tech &amp; Mgmt Infor Systems, Magna Cum Laude Alan J. Dick, Hays,&nbsp; - Bachelor of Arts in Education, ECU/Elementary Educ Apprentice, Magna Cum Laude Undergraduate students who have attained a grade point average of 3.9 out of a possible 4.0 received the summa cum laude award; those with an average of 3.55 received the magna cum laude award; and those with an average of 3.25 received the cum laude award.

Ellis county students complete degrees at Wichita State University

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Arts Council executive director Brenda Meder shares updates from the Arts Center.

<div><iframe title="Hays Arts Council offering free exhibitions during summer" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=wuyfm-14449cf-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"></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Arts Council executive director Brenda Meder shares updates from the Arts Center.

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council offering free exhibitions during summer

Heartland Community Foundation, a philanthropic organization dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals and communities in the Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties, is pleased to announce the appointment of five new members to its esteemed advisory board. The addition of these highly accomplished individuals will further strengthen the foundation's mission of fostering positive change and supporting local initiatives.

The Heartland Community Foundation warmly welcomes the following individuals to its board:

Cristi Werth - Residing in rural Trego County, Cristi brings her expertise as the owner of TWI Insurance Services in WaKeeney. With a remarkable seven-year history of philanthropy as a donor to Heartland during Match Month, Cristi is deeply committed to making a difference. Married and a proud parent of four adult children and four grandchildren, Cristi's experience in the insurance industry and her participation in the grants committee will prove invaluable to the foundation's endeavors.

Jude Fox - Based in Hays, Jude serves as a wealth adviser at Adams Brown. His background as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and prior involvement on various boards, including treasurer at United Way, uniquely positions him to contribute to Heartland Community Foundation's financial strategies. Jude, together with his wife Tiffany and their two young children, exemplify a passion for community service and are committed to making a lasting impact.

Joleen Fisher – Hays resident and Ellis native, Joleen retired in 2018 after a 20-year career at the Hays Daily News. Joleen brings a wealth of experience and an extensive network within the local business community. Actively involved as a Chamber Ambassador and Wonder Women

League member, Joleen's dedication to community engagement is remarkable. She looks forward to leveraging her knowledge and connections to further Heartland's mission.

Joslyn Brungardt - Based in Hays, Joslyn is the co-owner of McIntyre Plumbing, Heating &amp; Air, Inc. and Define Design &amp; Remodel, an interior design business known for its creativity and attention to detail. As a consistent donor to Heartland during Match Month, Joslyn's dedication to philanthropy is evident. Her previous service on the grants committee and her aptitude in event décor and planning make her a valuable addition to the board.

Mari Tucker - A Plainville resident, Mari brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in grant writing, foundation support, and marketing to the Heartland Community Foundation. Having previously served as the Director of NCK Tech's Marketing and Foundation and Washburn University’s Office of Sponsored Projects, Mari's expertise will be instrumental in expanding the foundation's outreach and impact. Mari's dedication to grant writing and her continued involvement with the Plainville Community Foundation demonstrates her commitment to strengthening communities through philanthropy.

Heartland Community Foundation is honored to welcome these exceptional individuals to its advisory board. Their diverse backgrounds, extensive community involvement, and professional expertise will contribute significantly to the foundation's efforts to create a positive and lasting impact on the Heartland region. They formally begin their terms on July 1.

Additionally, we bid farewell to three long-time board members who completed their terms. Hardy Howard of WaKeeney served eight years as a board member including two years as board president. He will remain involved with Heartland as a board emeritus. David Herl of Hays served as a board member for six years and as the organization’s long-time treasurer. Kathy Ramsay of Plainville also served as a board member for six years. She will remain involved as a board emeritus.

Together, Hardy, David and Kathy embodied the essence of servant leadership. They leave behind a remarkable legacy that will continue to inspire future board members and shape the Heartland Community Foundation. On behalf of the entire Heartland community, we extend our heartfelt thanks to them.

SubmittedHeartland Community Foundation, a philanthropic organization dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals and communities in the Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties, is pleased to announce the appointment of five new members to its esteemed advisory board. The addition of these highly accomplished individuals will further strengthen the foundation's mission of fostering positive change and supporting local initiatives.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688145196462.png" alt="New HCF Board Members FB Post (1).png" />
 <figcaption>New HCF Board Members FB Post (1).png</figcaption>
 </figure>The Heartland Community Foundation warmly welcomes the following individuals to its board:Cristi Werth - Residing in rural Trego County, Cristi brings her expertise as the owner of TWI Insurance Services in WaKeeney. With a remarkable seven-year history of philanthropy as a donor to Heartland during Match Month, Cristi is deeply committed to making a difference. Married and a proud parent of four adult children and four grandchildren, Cristi's experience in the insurance industry and her participation in the grants committee will prove invaluable to the foundation's endeavors.Jude Fox - Based in Hays, Jude serves as a wealth adviser at Adams Brown. His background as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and prior involvement on various boards, including treasurer at United Way, uniquely positions him to contribute to Heartland Community Foundation's financial strategies. Jude, together with his wife Tiffany and their two young children, exemplify a passion for community service and are committed to making a lasting impact.Joleen Fisher – Hays resident and Ellis native, Joleen retired in 2018 after a 20-year career at the Hays Daily News. Joleen brings a wealth of experience and an extensive network within the local business community. Actively involved as a Chamber Ambassador and Wonder WomenLeague member, Joleen's dedication to community engagement is remarkable. She looks forward to leveraging her knowledge and connections to further Heartland's mission.Joslyn Brungardt - Based in Hays, Joslyn is the co-owner of McIntyre Plumbing, Heating &amp; Air, Inc. and Define Design &amp; Remodel, an interior design business known for its creativity and attention to detail. As a consistent donor to Heartland during Match Month, Joslyn's dedication to philanthropy is evident. Her previous service on the grants committee and her aptitude in event décor and planning make her a valuable addition to the board.Mari Tucker - A Plainville resident, Mari brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in grant writing, foundation support, and marketing to the Heartland Community Foundation. Having previously served as the Director of NCK Tech's Marketing and Foundation and Washburn University’s Office of Sponsored Projects, Mari's expertise will be instrumental in expanding the foundation's outreach and impact. Mari's dedication to grant writing and her continued involvement with the Plainville Community Foundation demonstrates her commitment to strengthening communities through philanthropy.Heartland Community Foundation is honored to welcome these exceptional individuals to its advisory board. Their diverse backgrounds, extensive community involvement, and professional expertise will contribute significantly to the foundation's efforts to create a positive and lasting impact on the Heartland region. They formally begin their terms on July 1.Additionally, we bid farewell to three long-time board members who completed their terms. Hardy Howard of WaKeeney served eight years as a board member including two years as board president. He will remain involved with Heartland as a board emeritus. David Herl of Hays served as a board member for six years and as the organization’s long-time treasurer. Kathy Ramsay of Plainville also served as a board member for six years. She will remain involved as a board emeritus.Together, Hardy, David and Kathy embodied the essence of servant leadership. They leave behind a remarkable legacy that will continue to inspire future board members and shape the Heartland Community Foundation. On behalf of the entire Heartland community, we extend our heartfelt thanks to them.

Heartland Community Foundation welcomes 5 new board members

By RUSSELL ARBEN FOX WSU

There’s a mayoral election taking place in Wichita, Kansas’s largest stand-alone city, right now. Also, strikes have been declared at Spirit AeroSystems, Wichita’s largest single employer, and Ascension Via Christi, the city’s largest hospital. What does all this have in common?

Potentially many things. The business slowdowns, budget deficits, and unemployment which any labor unrest may contribute to, are obviously all topics that people seeking political office are going to have to struggle with. And similarly, the positions taken by a city’s mayor can play a large role in determining how and when strikes or contract negotiations may be resolved. So, these topics are going to be entwined in Wichita, as they would in any community.

But there is another similarity between them, one that isn’t often noticed, but which I think lurks behind the scenes in how we approach either an election or a strike. When voters organize in support of someone running for political office, or when workers organize and make collective demands of their employer, we are seeing “factions” at work.

The concept of a faction—people who act together in support of their shared interests—has a storied place in our constitutional order. For much of history, factions were seen as poisonous; the assumption was that if people organized around particular agendas, there could be no united, “common” good. This meant societies had to stay small and simple and homogeneous, so as to prevent the factional temptation. But James Madison defended the proposed U.S. Constitution in part by insisting that factions were a natural result of human freedom. The goal shouldn’t be to prevent them, but to expand and include them, and seek to manage their effects instead.

Madisonian pluralism can be criticized, but it remains the way the American system usually looks upon factional differences. When employees have differences with how they are treated by their employers, they can organize into unions and make demands, including through strikes. True, many are suspicious of unions, and the Republican party, both nationally and in Kansas, has often opposed them. But even with the challenges the striking machinists and nurses might pose to Wichita’s economy, none of the candidates for mayor, including the Republican ones, spoke against the strikers as a faction (though some were more supportive than others).

It is odd that our recognition of factional differences on the factory or hospital floor often disappears, though. When it comes to City Hall. As I wrote above, there are Republicans running for Wichita’s mayor, as well as a Democrat and a Libertarian and unaffiliated candidates, which shouldn’t surprise anyone. Yet when it comes to local elections—in contrast to national and state ones—many share the belief that “partisanship” (which can just mean thinking and acting factionally, in support of the interests of one’s supporters) is poisonous, like was assumed by many long ago.

Parties can be corrupt, of course—in the same way unions, or for that matter businesses, can be. Institutional collusion and self-interest within any kind of faction or organization warrants being called out for such. But as the Wichita mayoral race moves forward, it will be interesting to see which candidates, if any, will be forthright--like the striking machinists and nurses have been--in defense of the factions they represent and the particular agenda they offer to voters, and which will instead insist that specific shared interests must be set aside in the name of a “unified” good.

Madison had some doubts about that approach, centuries ago; there are good reasons for us to doubt it still today.

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586443443315.jpeg" alt="Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By RUSSELL ARBEN FOX WSU There’s a mayoral election taking place in Wichita, Kansas’s largest stand-alone city, right now. Also, strikes have been declared at Spirit AeroSystems, Wichita’s largest single employer, and Ascension Via Christi, the city’s largest hospital. What does all this have in common?Potentially many things. The business slowdowns, budget deficits, and unemployment which any labor unrest may contribute to, are obviously all topics that people seeking political office are going to have to struggle with. And similarly, the positions taken by a city’s mayor can play a large role in determining how and when strikes or contract negotiations may be resolved. So, these topics are going to be entwined in Wichita, as they would in any community.But there is another similarity between them, one that isn’t often noticed, but which I think lurks behind the scenes in how we approach either an election or a strike. When voters organize in support of someone running for political office, or when workers organize and make collective demands of their employer, we are seeing “factions” at work.The concept of a faction—people who act together in support of their shared interests—has a storied place in our constitutional order. For much of history, factions were seen as poisonous; the assumption was that if people organized around particular agendas, there could be no united, “common” good. This meant societies had to stay small and simple and homogeneous, so as to prevent the factional temptation. But James Madison defended the proposed U.S. Constitution in part by insisting that factions were a natural result of human freedom. The goal shouldn’t be to prevent them, but to expand and include them, and seek to manage their effects instead.Madisonian pluralism can be criticized, but it remains the way the American system usually looks upon factional differences. When employees have differences with how they are treated by their employers, they can organize into unions and make demands, including through strikes. True, many are suspicious of unions, and the Republican party, both nationally and in Kansas, has often opposed them. But even with the challenges the striking machinists and nurses might pose to Wichita’s economy, none of the candidates for mayor, including the Republican ones, spoke against the strikers as a faction (though some were more supportive than others).It is odd that our recognition of factional differences on the factory or hospital floor often disappears, though. When it comes to City Hall. As I wrote above, there are Republicans running for Wichita’s mayor, as well as a Democrat and a Libertarian and unaffiliated candidates, which shouldn’t surprise anyone. Yet when it comes to local elections—in contrast to national and state ones—many share the belief that “partisanship” (which can just mean thinking and acting factionally, in support of the interests of one’s supporters) is poisonous, like was assumed by many long ago.Parties can be corrupt, of course—in the same way unions, or for that matter businesses, can be. Institutional collusion and self-interest within any kind of faction or organization warrants being called out for such. But as the Wichita mayoral race moves forward, it will be interesting to see which candidates, if any, will be forthright--like the striking machinists and nurses have been--in defense of the factions they represent and the particular agenda they offer to voters, and which will instead insist that specific shared interests must be set aside in the name of a “unified” good.Madison had some doubts about that approach, centuries ago; there are good reasons for us to doubt it still today.Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics at Friends University in Wichita.

INSIGHT KANSAS: On unions, factions, and elections

FORT LARNED NHS -&nbsp;Join us on Tuesday, July 4, for a July Fourth celebration at the fort.

Just like today, the soldiers and civilians at remote frontier posts looked forward to celebrating our nation’s birthday. To celebrate this year’s Fourth of July Fort Larned is presenting special programs on Tuesday, July 4, along with staff and volunteer in period clothing in the buildings.

10:00 a.m.– Blacksmith Demonstration 11:00 a.m. – Firing Demonstration with Small Arms and the Howitzer 12:00 p.m. – Noon salute to the flag (per 1861 US Army orders) 1:00 p.m. – The Cannoneer’s Hop: Learn the steps of loading a cannon in this hands-on program (Sorry: no firing included) 2:00 p.m. – Firing Demonstration with Small Arms and the Howitzer 3:00 p.m. – Buffalo Soldiers at Fort Larned 4:30 p.m. – Flag Retreat (traditional Army flag lowering ceremony)

Please keep in mind that programs and events are subject to change due to staffing or weather.

Fort Larned National Historic Site is located six miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156. You can find information about visiting on the internet at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/fols/index.htm">www.nps.gov/fols</a>, by calling 620-285-6911, or emailing fols_internet@nps.gov.

For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining, and community services go to <a href="https://www.larnedks.org/">www.larnedks.org</a> or call 620-285-6916.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675269532908.jpeg" alt="Fort Larned National Historic Site. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Fort Larned National Historic Site. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedFORT LARNED NHS -&nbsp;Join us on Tuesday, July 4, for a July Fourth celebration at the fort.Just like today, the soldiers and civilians at remote frontier posts looked forward to celebrating our nation’s birthday. To celebrate this year’s Fourth of July Fort Larned is presenting special programs on Tuesday, July 4, along with staff and volunteer in period clothing in the buildings.10:00 a.m.– Blacksmith Demonstration 11:00 a.m. – Firing Demonstration with Small Arms and the Howitzer 12:00 p.m. – Noon salute to the flag (per 1861 US Army orders) 1:00 p.m. – The Cannoneer’s Hop: Learn the steps of loading a cannon in this hands-on program (Sorry: no firing included) 2:00 p.m. – Firing Demonstration with Small Arms and the Howitzer 3:00 p.m. – Buffalo Soldiers at Fort Larned 4:30 p.m. – Flag Retreat (traditional Army flag lowering ceremony) Please keep in mind that programs and events are subject to change due to staffing or weather.Fort Larned National Historic Site is located six miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156. You can find information about visiting on the internet at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/fols/index.htm">www.nps.gov/fols</a>, by calling 620-285-6911, or emailing fols_internet@nps.gov. For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining, and community services go to <a href="https://www.larnedks.org/">www.larnedks.org</a> or call 620-285-6916.

Celebrate July 4th history at Fort Larned

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688235846660.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>

📷 Wild West Festival 2023: Chris Janson, Ashley Cooke

 She saw the needs and wanted to better serve her community. But without financial assistance, Meriah Escarcega said she would not have been able to go back to school or further her career as an outpatient therapist. 

Thanks to a grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, Kan., Meriah and three other High Plains Mental Health Center staff members were able to pursue advanced coursework at Fort Hays State University. The opportunity comes at a critical time when more people are seeking behavioral health treatment, but a national workforce shortage makes it difficult for rural agencies to hire and retain qualified mental health professionals. 

Meriah completed a Master’s of Social Work training program at FHSU in May, and is expected to begin work as a bilingual outpatient therapist at High Plains Mental Health Center later this summer.

“I think this program is an amazing opportunity and is likely to play a major role as to why HPMHC employees are going to decide to further their education due to the financial stress it may bring on,” Escarcega said. “I am so thankful to have received this option and I hope it continues to be offered to other employees to benefit HPMHC and our clients.”

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, granted a two-year scholarship fund to HPMHC for the specific purpose of growing the region’s behavioral health workforce through advanced education at FHSU. This grant program expired in May 2023.

 A total of four staff members received assistance from the scholarship program, and all will join HPMHC workforce as clinical therapists. 

Two of the new therapists (Escarcega and Carmen Morales-Hernandez) are bilingual, making Spanish-speaking therapy services available at HPMHC for the first time. Morales-Hernandez graduated with her MSW in May 2022 and is currently accepting new clients. 

Both are passionate about reducing stigma and improving access to Spanish-speaking and culturally competent mental health services for the region’s growing Hispanic/Latino communities. Bilingual therapy services are now available on-site in Hays, or via telehealth to any residents within the 20 counties served by High Plains Mental Health Center. A sliding fee scale is available, and clients are not refused services based on inability to pay.

“I like making a difference in people’s lives and building that sense of hope for change,” Morales-Hernandez said. “It’s a rewarding feeling when you know that the work you do with clients is making a difference in their lives.”

Recruiting professionals from other areas has always been difficult for rural agencies, and High Plains long has recognized the importance of a “grow your own” approach to workforce, said Walt Hill, executive director. Many staff members begin their careers with entry-level service positions requiring a high school diploma or bachelor’s degree, then decide they want to advance their careers in mental health services. 

Investing in established local professionals is a win-win, because those with ties to the&nbsp;area are usually more likely to stay in northwest Kansas long term, Hill said. The Hansen grant program was available only to students pursuing advanced coursework at FHSU, also benefitting the region’s only four-year university.

“We are so thankful for the Hansen Foundation’s support in helping us expand workforce to address the increasing need for mental health services,” Hill said. “We work very hard to support our staff in advancing their career goals, and are pleased we were able to invest in four bright young professionals who are committed to working and living in northwest Kansas.”

A third Hansen scholar, Mandy Stock, is expected to begin work as an outpatient therapist at the Phillipsburg Branch Office later this summer. 

Stock, Escarcega and Morales-Hernandez all had extensive experience working as Recovery Specialists (case managers) and serving clients in northwest Kansas. A fourth staff member has begun the clinical psychology program at FHSU and is expected to graduate in 2024. The additional workforce comes at a critical time, as mental health service needs have been increasing locally and nationally.

High Plains Mental Health Center in 2022 served a record high of 7,149 individual clients. Evidence suggests that 1 in 5 U.S. adults and 1 in 6 youth will experience a mental illness in any given year. Additionally, the World Health Organization reported the Covid-19 pandemic significantly increased the prevalence of anxiety, depression and substance use worldwide. 

It’s also likely that people are feeling more comfortable reaching out for mental health services, as stigma begins to lessen and more people are willing to think about and talk about their mental health, Hill said.

“Mental health care is healthcare, and it’s important to reach out if you’re struggling. There is help available wherever you are, and there is hope,” Hill said. “We are proud to serve Northwest Kansas and appreciate the support of our mission to expand access to quality healthcare.”

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588708399757.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HPMHC She saw the needs and wanted to better serve her community. But without financial assistance, Meriah Escarcega said she would not have been able to go back to school or further her career as an outpatient therapist. Thanks to a grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, Kan., Meriah and three other High Plains Mental Health Center staff members were able to pursue advanced coursework at Fort Hays State University. The opportunity comes at a critical time when more people are seeking behavioral health treatment, but a national workforce shortage makes it difficult for rural agencies to hire and retain qualified mental health professionals. Meriah completed a Master’s of Social Work training program at FHSU in May, and is expected to begin work as a bilingual outpatient therapist at High Plains Mental Health Center later this summer.“I think this program is an amazing opportunity and is likely to play a major role as to why HPMHC employees are going to decide to further their education due to the financial stress it may bring on,” Escarcega said. “I am so thankful to have received this option and I hope it continues to be offered to other employees to benefit HPMHC and our clients.”The Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, granted a two-year scholarship fund to HPMHC for the specific purpose of growing the region’s behavioral health workforce through advanced education at FHSU. This grant program expired in May 2023. A total of four staff members received assistance from the scholarship program, and all will join HPMHC workforce as clinical therapists. Two of the new therapists (Escarcega and Carmen Morales-Hernandez) are bilingual, making Spanish-speaking therapy services available at HPMHC for the first time. Morales-Hernandez graduated with her MSW in May 2022 and is currently accepting new clients. Both are passionate about reducing stigma and improving access to Spanish-speaking and culturally competent mental health services for the region’s growing Hispanic/Latino communities. Bilingual therapy services are now available on-site in Hays, or via telehealth to any residents within the 20 counties served by High Plains Mental Health Center. A sliding fee scale is available, and clients are not refused services based on inability to pay.“I like making a difference in people’s lives and building that sense of hope for change,” Morales-Hernandez said. “It’s a rewarding feeling when you know that the work you do with clients is making a difference in their lives.”Recruiting professionals from other areas has always been difficult for rural agencies, and High Plains long has recognized the importance of a “grow your own” approach to workforce, said Walt Hill, executive director. Many staff members begin their careers with entry-level service positions requiring a high school diploma or bachelor’s degree, then decide they want to advance their careers in mental health services. Investing in established local professionals is a win-win, because those with ties to the&nbsp;area are usually more likely to stay in northwest Kansas long term, Hill said. The Hansen grant program was available only to students pursuing advanced coursework at FHSU, also benefitting the region’s only four-year university.“We are so thankful for the Hansen Foundation’s support in helping us expand workforce to address the increasing need for mental health services,” Hill said. “We work very hard to support our staff in advancing their career goals, and are pleased we were able to invest in four bright young professionals who are committed to working and living in northwest Kansas.”A third Hansen scholar, Mandy Stock, is expected to begin work as an outpatient therapist at the Phillipsburg Branch Office later this summer. Stock, Escarcega and Morales-Hernandez all had extensive experience working as Recovery Specialists (case managers) and serving clients in northwest Kansas. A fourth staff member has begun the clinical psychology program at FHSU and is expected to graduate in 2024. The additional workforce comes at a critical time, as mental health service needs have been increasing locally and nationally.High Plains Mental Health Center in 2022 served a record high of 7,149 individual clients. Evidence suggests that 1 in 5 U.S. adults and 1 in 6 youth will experience a mental illness in any given year. Additionally, the World Health Organization reported the Covid-19 pandemic significantly increased the prevalence of anxiety, depression and substance use worldwide. It’s also likely that people are feeling more comfortable reaching out for mental health services, as stigma begins to lessen and more people are willing to think about and talk about their mental health, Hill said.“Mental health care is healthcare, and it’s important to reach out if you’re struggling. There is help available wherever you are, and there is hope,” Hill said. “We are proud to serve Northwest Kansas and appreciate the support of our mission to expand access to quality healthcare.”High Plains Mental Health Center is a licensed Community Mental Health Center and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic dedicated to the aggressive pursuit of providing a comprehensive mental health program to the residents of Northwest Kansas. Embodied in this pursuit are fundamental principles of establishing quality services as close to home as possible, at an affordable fee, and delivered in the least disruptive manner available. Such services will offer a continuum of care so that treatment can be individualized, and our staff can respond quickly and compassionately to those reaching out to us. We’re Here for You!

Hansen Foundation, High Plains Mental Health Center partner for scholarship program

By KARISSA WINKEL KSRE-Cottonwood District

Do you have a hard time getting enough sleep in the summertime? You might blame an irregular schedule or longer days, but there are a few factors that science proves to lead to fewer zzz’s in the summertime.

1. Reduced melatonin production. Longer days lead to greater sunlight exposure in the evenings. While this is great to help you fit in a walk, spend time in the garden, or catch a baseball game, evening light exposure delays the hormone production of melatonin. This results in difficulty falling asleep, and over time, it can decrease the amount of sleep you get each night.

2. Increased core body temperature. The heat that accompanies the summer months often leads to an increased body temperature that suppresses your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. According to one study, restorative deep sleep is less in those who have a higher body temperature (1). This means that the vital processes of tissue repair, memory restoration, and immune system function may be reduced for those who can’t cool down at night.

3. Age plays a role. Throughout the life cycle, sleep quality and quantity drastically decrease. This factor alone can result in fatigue, and the increased daylight hours of the summertime can add even more stress to the body. This change in daylight hours can throw off the body’s circadian rhythm resulting in earlier wake times of people ages 60+.

As you can see, there are multiple culprits that affect the sleep cycle.

 So how do you combat the restlessness of summer? Practice consistency by closing curtains and dimming indoor lights. Adding this to your bedtime routine can boost melatonin production earlier in the evening. Avoid exercise two hours before bed. High levels of activity are likely to increase core body temperatures that inhibit sleep. Instead, try to workout earlier in the day and fight the heat in the evening with a cold shower. To top it off, create a comfortable environment by adjusting your thermostat to a temperature between 60-68 degrees for optimal sleeping conditions. Finally, soak up the sun early in the day! The body is highly sensitive to sunlight about an hour after waking up, and this exposure in the morning is key in regulating your circadian rhythm (2).

1. National Library of Medicine. Sleep on a high heat capacity mattress increases conductive body heat loss and slow wave sleep.

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Effects of light on circadian rhythms.

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. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379885179.png" alt="Karissa Winkel&nbsp;is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel&nbsp;is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL KSRE-Cottonwood DistrictDo you have a hard time getting enough sleep in the summertime? You might blame an irregular schedule or longer days, but there are a few factors that science proves to lead to fewer zzz’s in the summertime.1. Reduced melatonin production. Longer days lead to greater sunlight exposure in the evenings. While this is great to help you fit in a walk, spend time in the garden, or catch a baseball game, evening light exposure delays the hormone production of melatonin. This results in difficulty falling asleep, and over time, it can decrease the amount of sleep you get each night.2. Increased core body temperature. The heat that accompanies the summer months often leads to an increased body temperature that suppresses your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. According to one study, restorative deep sleep is less in those who have a higher body temperature (1). This means that the vital processes of tissue repair, memory restoration, and immune system function may be reduced for those who can’t cool down at night.3. Age plays a role. Throughout the life cycle, sleep quality and quantity drastically decrease. This factor alone can result in fatigue, and the increased daylight hours of the summertime can add even more stress to the body. This change in daylight hours can throw off the body’s circadian rhythm resulting in earlier wake times of people ages 60+.As you can see, there are multiple culprits that affect the sleep cycle. So how do you combat the restlessness of summer? Practice consistency by closing curtains and dimming indoor lights. Adding this to your bedtime routine can boost melatonin production earlier in the evening. Avoid exercise two hours before bed. High levels of activity are likely to increase core body temperatures that inhibit sleep. Instead, try to workout earlier in the day and fight the heat in the evening with a cold shower. To top it off, create a comfortable environment by adjusting your thermostat to a temperature between 60-68 degrees for optimal sleeping conditions. Finally, soak up the sun early in the day! The body is highly sensitive to sunlight about an hour after waking up, and this exposure in the morning is key in regulating your circadian rhythm (2).1. National Library of Medicine. Sleep on a high heat capacity mattress increases conductive body heat loss and slow wave sleep.2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Effects of light on circadian rhythms.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. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: Summertime sleeplessness

By JULIA DEBES Kansas Wheat

Neighbors helping neighbors is a Kansas way of life - and it applies not only to combining a wheat field down the road for folks down on their luck, but also to those in need around the world. 

It was a Kansas farmer who first proposed the idea of sharing grain with countries in dire need nearly 70 years ago. Today, another Kansan - First District U.S. Representative Tracey Mann of Salina - is helping carry that torch by leading legislative efforts to keep the food in now well-established U.S. food aid programs.&nbsp;

“Kansas wheat producers are proud to continue a tradition of championing food aid programs that provide high-quality wheat to those in need,” said Kansas Wheat CEO Justin Gilpin. “These programs have saved lives and built goodwill all in one simple gesture, and we are proud to support the push to keep the food in food aid.”&nbsp;

Peter O’Brien, a young farmer and rancher from Cheyenne County, first suggested donating grain to countries in need during a county meeting in September 1953. Those comments sparked a grassroots movement, leading to the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act in 1954, sponsored by U.S. Senator Any Schoeppel, Claflin, and signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Abilene - both Kansans.&nbsp;

The pillar of today’s modern food aid programs was a common goal: provide people in developing countries with a secure food source, and they will do more than survive. As their economies recover and thrive, they become new potential buyers of U.S. exports.&nbsp;

“America’s international food aid programs have enjoyed bipartisan support for more than 65 years because they are simple, effective, and they feed millions of vulnerable people around the world each year,” Mann said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kSi8wKJzhbyDAzKCmHwAipjVHU_PtQ_Dey3JrAtrMz1dBELQSd9Th9lozlXUA2PUPUSaKoGNURuqHVxIej4FEOun3Ykz4Sz2S_8_Dp90xnuZfDKNzmz7yHIicbC_DaI_1_8PQX3KUH0cwo1S7jWPHF7JQh_1NTKmEir3iLMTFxIHWtSJOtRskvK-7YdYpv7XESGBPNuhxExkbjDGV7t9DWCL2V6VoXWugeqtRuFmcFby1-widwb9zQp-uMOZHDllaV_nRHDuaVQm2BqZtKNXvQ==&amp;c=KMGWYx6O5Q3tUl18zh3pjLXglZMuI0lM2Nzqc-HwiPCZziuH75H4rw==&amp;ch=YuxBUh1kEEOtIERA1eBIkE_zO02od8zAM1dXTuZeJeoWXsm0jo2_sA==" target="_blank">release</a>. “Through these programs, America fortifies our allies, counters the influence of foreign adversaries, creates new markets and trading partners, and stops wars before they start.&nbsp;

For decades, the implementation of food aid programs stayed true to this purpose, purchasing and donating U.S.-grown commodities, like wheat, to countries in need. Wheat has been a staple in the fight against global hunger, accounting for roughly 20 percent of the calories consumed globally. In recent years, however, the programs have shifted to transferring cash and purchasing commodities from foreign competitors with U.S. dollars.&nbsp;

“This shift has diminished transparency and accountability, reduced the procurement and shipment of American-grown food for hungry people, and jeopardized more than six decades of bipartisan support for our international food aid programs,” Mann said.&nbsp;

To correct the course of U.S. food aid programs, Mann, who represents the Big First Congressional District, jointly introduced the “American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023” with U.S. Representatives John Garamendi (CA-08), Rick Crawford (AR-01), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) on June 22.&nbsp;

The legislation seeks to ensure U.S.-grown commodities remain the cornerstone of international food aid by ending the Food for Peace program’s utilization of cash transfers overseas - along with restoring transparency, accountability and efficiency to the program.&nbsp;

“The American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 supports more Kansas wheat going to more people around the world who are in need,” said Brian Linin, U.S. Wheat Associates Board of Directors member, Food Aid Working Group member, and farmer in Goodland. “This legislation is an opportunity to make sure taxpayer dollars are spent in a manner that truly makes an impact on global hunger. Commodities produced by U.S. farmers should always be the first choice when it comes to international food aid programs.”&nbsp;

From casual conversations in St. Francis to press conferences outside the U.S. Congress, the principle of neighbors helping neighbors, particularly by providing secure access to food, remains an ideal Kansans will continue to champion.&nbsp;

“This bill puts a stake in the ground,” Mann said. “It’s a noble thing to feed hungry people, and we should use American commodities as we do it.”

Learn more about wheat as a source of food security and assistance at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kSi8wKJzhbyDAzKCmHwAipjVHU_PtQ_Dey3JrAtrMz1dBELQSd9Th9lozlXUA2PUHpp9KLZcHEVsVjSfiCug1TmcKStJ8d0n8aAGb-4bK2KvR0FvdRuf9QWaApMJyHHt1fP7coGLQOaSBQvYqLE0zCBgBYKbCPrqsE4V4C8GoXy-iQIo2K3txQ6ycggrTE7t7-tFCn5wJhs=&amp;c=KMGWYx6O5Q3tUl18zh3pjLXglZMuI0lM2Nzqc-HwiPCZziuH75H4rw==&amp;ch=YuxBUh1kEEOtIERA1eBIkE_zO02od8zAM1dXTuZeJeoWXsm0jo2_sA==" target="_blank">https://www.uswheat.org/policy/food-security-and-assistance/</a>.

Learn more about the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kSi8wKJzhbyDAzKCmHwAipjVHU_PtQ_Dey3JrAtrMz1dBELQSd9Th9lozlXUA2PUzFC7GZoJp6iHN5D0gEe4B3lKktv2ZD4Lzz7ebhY83vCBEvlFcq2idPp3GlYkg_Tpy17PEWGsTids_66pgHLwvHQI4khXBPW7FNnMdmI5OACCxBSB-jOYwGqz_jrJa_xkhuRJM9vQqtQ=&amp;c=KMGWYx6O5Q3tUl18zh3pjLXglZMuI0lM2Nzqc-HwiPCZziuH75H4rw==&amp;ch=YuxBUh1kEEOtIERA1eBIkE_zO02od8zAM1dXTuZeJeoWXsm0jo2_sA==" target="_blank">https://www.uswheat.org/american-farmers-feed-the-world-act-of-2023/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684771413683.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatNeighbors helping neighbors is a Kansas way of life - and it applies not only to combining a wheat field down the road for folks down on their luck, but also to those in need around the world. It was a Kansas farmer who first proposed the idea of sharing grain with countries in dire need nearly 70 years ago. Today, another Kansan - First District U.S. Representative Tracey Mann of Salina - is helping carry that torch by leading legislative efforts to keep the food in now well-established U.S. food aid programs.&nbsp;“Kansas wheat producers are proud to continue a tradition of championing food aid programs that provide high-quality wheat to those in need,” said Kansas Wheat CEO Justin Gilpin. “These programs have saved lives and built goodwill all in one simple gesture, and we are proud to support the push to keep the food in food aid.”&nbsp;Peter O’Brien, a young farmer and rancher from Cheyenne County, first suggested donating grain to countries in need during a county meeting in September 1953. Those comments sparked a grassroots movement, leading to the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act in 1954, sponsored by U.S. Senator Any Schoeppel, Claflin, and signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Abilene - both Kansans.&nbsp;The pillar of today’s modern food aid programs was a common goal: provide people in developing countries with a secure food source, and they will do more than survive. As their economies recover and thrive, they become new potential buyers of U.S. exports.&nbsp;“America’s international food aid programs have enjoyed bipartisan support for more than 65 years because they are simple, effective, and they feed millions of vulnerable people around the world each year,” Mann said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kSi8wKJzhbyDAzKCmHwAipjVHU_PtQ_Dey3JrAtrMz1dBELQSd9Th9lozlXUA2PUPUSaKoGNURuqHVxIej4FEOun3Ykz4Sz2S_8_Dp90xnuZfDKNzmz7yHIicbC_DaI_1_8PQX3KUH0cwo1S7jWPHF7JQh_1NTKmEir3iLMTFxIHWtSJOtRskvK-7YdYpv7XESGBPNuhxExkbjDGV7t9DWCL2V6VoXWugeqtRuFmcFby1-widwb9zQp-uMOZHDllaV_nRHDuaVQm2BqZtKNXvQ==&amp;c=KMGWYx6O5Q3tUl18zh3pjLXglZMuI0lM2Nzqc-HwiPCZziuH75H4rw==&amp;ch=YuxBUh1kEEOtIERA1eBIkE_zO02od8zAM1dXTuZeJeoWXsm0jo2_sA==" target="_blank">release</a>. “Through these programs, America fortifies our allies, counters the influence of foreign adversaries, creates new markets and trading partners, and stops wars before they start.&nbsp;For decades, the implementation of food aid programs stayed true to this purpose, purchasing and donating U.S.-grown commodities, like wheat, to countries in need. Wheat has been a staple in the fight against global hunger, accounting for roughly 20 percent of the calories consumed globally. In recent years, however, the programs have shifted to transferring cash and purchasing commodities from foreign competitors with U.S. dollars.&nbsp;“This shift has diminished transparency and accountability, reduced the procurement and shipment of American-grown food for hungry people, and jeopardized more than six decades of bipartisan support for our international food aid programs,” Mann said.&nbsp;To correct the course of U.S. food aid programs, Mann, who represents the Big First Congressional District, jointly introduced the “American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023” with U.S. Representatives John Garamendi (CA-08), Rick Crawford (AR-01), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) on June 22.&nbsp;The legislation seeks to ensure U.S.-grown commodities remain the cornerstone of international food aid by ending the Food for Peace program’s utilization of cash transfers overseas - along with restoring transparency, accountability and efficiency to the program.&nbsp;“The American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 supports more Kansas wheat going to more people around the world who are in need,” said Brian Linin, U.S. Wheat Associates Board of Directors member, Food Aid Working Group member, and farmer in Goodland. “This legislation is an opportunity to make sure taxpayer dollars are spent in a manner that truly makes an impact on global hunger. Commodities produced by U.S. farmers should always be the first choice when it comes to international food aid programs.”&nbsp;From casual conversations in St. Francis to press conferences outside the U.S. Congress, the principle of neighbors helping neighbors, particularly by providing secure access to food, remains an ideal Kansans will continue to champion.&nbsp;“This bill puts a stake in the ground,” Mann said. “It’s a noble thing to feed hungry people, and we should use American commodities as we do it.”Learn more about wheat as a source of food security and assistance at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kSi8wKJzhbyDAzKCmHwAipjVHU_PtQ_Dey3JrAtrMz1dBELQSd9Th9lozlXUA2PUHpp9KLZcHEVsVjSfiCug1TmcKStJ8d0n8aAGb-4bK2KvR0FvdRuf9QWaApMJyHHt1fP7coGLQOaSBQvYqLE0zCBgBYKbCPrqsE4V4C8GoXy-iQIo2K3txQ6ycggrTE7t7-tFCn5wJhs=&amp;c=KMGWYx6O5Q3tUl18zh3pjLXglZMuI0lM2Nzqc-HwiPCZziuH75H4rw==&amp;ch=YuxBUh1kEEOtIERA1eBIkE_zO02od8zAM1dXTuZeJeoWXsm0jo2_sA==" target="_blank">https://www.uswheat.org/policy/food-security-and-assistance/</a>. Learn more about the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kSi8wKJzhbyDAzKCmHwAipjVHU_PtQ_Dey3JrAtrMz1dBELQSd9Th9lozlXUA2PUzFC7GZoJp6iHN5D0gEe4B3lKktv2ZD4Lzz7ebhY83vCBEvlFcq2idPp3GlYkg_Tpy17PEWGsTids_66pgHLwvHQI4khXBPW7FNnMdmI5OACCxBSB-jOYwGqz_jrJa_xkhuRJM9vQqtQ=&amp;c=KMGWYx6O5Q3tUl18zh3pjLXglZMuI0lM2Nzqc-HwiPCZziuH75H4rw==&amp;ch=YuxBUh1kEEOtIERA1eBIkE_zO02od8zAM1dXTuZeJeoWXsm0jo2_sA==" target="_blank">https://www.uswheat.org/american-farmers-feed-the-world-act-of-2023/</a>.

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