BELOIT - Students from NCK Tech Beloit’s Welding program took home the silver medal at the National Skills USA welding fabrication competition held in Atlanta, GA, on June 19-23, 2023. 

To qualify for the national contest, students must take first place at their respective state competition held in the spring.

The welding fabrication team consisted of three students that worked cooperatively to complete a project from blueprints using SMAW, GTAW, GMAW, FCAW / OFC and PAC welding and cutting processes. 

The team members were Brayden Doughman, Canton, Hunter Teasley, Pratt, and Josh Uhland, Logan.

Skills utilized included oxy-fuel cutting, welding in all positions, mathematics, layout, drilling, finishing, and the ability to adapt to alterations and stresses in the production environment.

In addition to the team events, Evan Claassen, Whitewater, represented Kansas and NCK Tech in the individual welding competition. 

During the competition, participants receive drawings and a set of welding procedure specifications that conform to the latest edition of the American Welding Society standards. At a series of stations, competitors are tested on various aspects of welding, including: measuring weld replicas, using weld measuring gauges, and using oxy-acetylene equipment to cut several holes. Welding processes used include, gas metal arc welding (GMAW), flux cored arc welding (FCAW), shielded metal arc (SMAW) and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) on an aluminum project. 

Special thanks to our supporters and business and industry partners that make it possible for our students to compete at the state and national competitions. Technical education is the backbone of the American economy, it provides students with limitless opportunities to put their skills to work. 

All four students were hired immediately upon graduating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690213192528.jpeg" alt="NCKTech Beloit welding students Brayden Doughman, Hunter Teasley, Josh Uhland. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>NCKTech Beloit welding students Brayden Doughman, Hunter Teasley, Josh Uhland. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>NCKTCBELOIT - Students from NCK Tech Beloit’s Welding program took home the silver medal at the National Skills USA welding fabrication competition held in Atlanta, GA, on June 19-23, 2023. To qualify for the national contest, students must take first place at their respective state competition held in the spring.The welding fabrication team consisted of three students that worked cooperatively to complete a project from blueprints using SMAW, GTAW, GMAW, FCAW / OFC and PAC welding and cutting processes. The team members were Brayden Doughman, Canton, Hunter Teasley, Pratt, and Josh Uhland, Logan. Skills utilized included oxy-fuel cutting, welding in all positions, mathematics, layout, drilling, finishing, and the ability to adapt to alterations and stresses in the production environment.In addition to the team events, Evan Claassen, Whitewater, represented Kansas and NCK Tech in the individual welding competition. During the competition, participants receive drawings and a set of welding procedure specifications that conform to the latest edition of the American Welding Society standards. At a series of stations, competitors are tested on various aspects of welding, including: measuring weld replicas, using weld measuring gauges, and using oxy-acetylene equipment to cut several holes. Welding processes used include, gas metal arc welding (GMAW), flux cored arc welding (FCAW), shielded metal arc (SMAW) and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) on an aluminum project. Claassen placed 11th in the nation.Special thanks to our supporters and business and industry partners that make it possible for our students to compete at the state and national competitions. Technical education is the backbone of the American economy, it provides students with limitless opportunities to put their skills to work. All four students were hired immediately upon graduating.

Logan student on NCKTC team that wins silver medal at national welding competition    

HaysMed, the leading healthcare provider in Hays proudly announces its recent achievement of a three-year term of reaccreditation in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) from the American College of Radiology (ACR). This recognition underscores HaysMed's commitment to delivering superior patient care and maintaining the highest standards in medical imaging.

MRI, a non-invasive medical test that utilizes magnetic fields to generate detailed images of internal body parts, plays a crucial role in aiding physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions. 

HaysMed's MRI program has received accreditation at both the hospital MRI and the MRI at the Orthopedic Clinic, ensuring exceptional imaging capabilities for both adult and pediatric patients.

The HaysMed Imaging Department plays a pivotal role in accurately imaging, interpreting images, and diagnosing patients, offering a comprehensive range of services for both adult and pediatric cases. The department is staffed by experienced radiologists and certified, licensed radiology technologists who demonstrate expertise in their respective fields.

The ACR Gold Seal of Accreditation represents the pinnacle of image quality and patient safety standards. 

It is bestowed only upon facilities that meet ACR Practice Parameters and Technical Standards, following a meticulous peer-review evaluation conducted by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Factors such as image quality, personnel qualifications, equipment adequacy, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are rigorously assessed. The findings are then reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, providing a comprehensive report to support continuous practice improvement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690899034766.jpeg" alt="Front row:&nbsp;Tania Deets, Riana Bates. Back row:&nbsp;Meghan Brown, Amy Feldt, Christy Gillogly, Chad Heslet. Photo by HaysMed" />
 <figcaption>Front row:&nbsp;Tania Deets, Riana Bates. Back row:&nbsp;Meghan Brown, Amy Feldt, Christy Gillogly, Chad Heslet. Photo by HaysMed</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMed&nbsp;HaysMed, the leading healthcare provider in Hays proudly announces its recent achievement of a three-year term of reaccreditation in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) from the American College of Radiology (ACR). This recognition underscores HaysMed's commitment to delivering superior patient care and maintaining the highest standards in medical imaging.MRI, a non-invasive medical test that utilizes magnetic fields to generate detailed images of internal body parts, plays a crucial role in aiding physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions. HaysMed's MRI program has received accreditation at both the hospital MRI and the MRI at the Orthopedic Clinic, ensuring exceptional imaging capabilities for both adult and pediatric patients.The HaysMed Imaging Department plays a pivotal role in accurately imaging, interpreting images, and diagnosing patients, offering a comprehensive range of services for both adult and pediatric cases. The department is staffed by experienced radiologists and certified, licensed radiology technologists who demonstrate expertise in their respective fields.The ACR Gold Seal of Accreditation represents the pinnacle of image quality and patient safety standards. It is bestowed only upon facilities that meet ACR Practice Parameters and Technical Standards, following a meticulous peer-review evaluation conducted by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Factors such as image quality, personnel qualifications, equipment adequacy, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are rigorously assessed. The findings are then reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, providing a comprehensive report to support continuous practice improvement.

HaysMed reaccredited in magnetic resonance imaging from the American College of Radiology 

WAKEENEY - Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation, Inc.&nbsp;is pleased to announce they have received a $115,000 tax credit allocation&nbsp;in Community Service Program (CSP) Tax Credits through the Kansas Department of Commerce. 

The available tax credits will be used to enhance fundraising efforts for&nbsp;the "TCLMH Renovation &amp; Expansion Project."

CSP is a popular program for Kansas nonprofits and public healthcare entities taking on major capital campaigns for projects involving children and family services, non-governmental crime prevention, youth apprenticeship and youth technical training and health care. 

Awarded nonprofits were chosen through a competitive application process. 

State tax credits reduce the total amount of taxes owed to the state. They are a way for taxpayers to substantially reduce the cost of contributing to&nbsp;Trego County through Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation.

These are your tax dollars; let's put them to work at home for the improvements to healthcare in Trego County.

Many of the construction/building items, and improvements are necessary.&nbsp; Some could have been done years ago. They weren't, but will be now.&nbsp; 

Boilers, HVAC, ventilation are all items that even specs have changed on over the years.&nbsp; Technology, security, and patient rooms bring us into this century and prepare us for years to come.&nbsp; 

Making improvements to existing healthcare, also gives us the ability to improve ourselves, and tap into valuable resources.

Businesses and individuals subject to Kansas income tax are eligible to receive a tax credit through this program. 

Donors giving at least $250 to&nbsp;Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation, Inc. "TCLMH Renovation &amp; Expansion Project"&nbsp;may qualify for a&nbsp;(70%/50%)&nbsp;tax credit. For example, a donor making a $1,000 gift receives a&nbsp;($700/$500)&nbsp;tax credit when they file their state taxes, making the net cost to the donor only&nbsp;($300/$500).

“CSP amplifies the mission of awarded community service organizations and their projects by encouraging donations through the benefit of state tax credits,” said Kayla Savage, director of the Community Development Division. 

“When you donate to an awarded CSP project, you have the opportunity to support a project and receive a state tax credit to reduce your taxable income.”

If you or your business are interested in donating to Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation, Inc. "TCLMH Renovation &amp; Expansion Project," please reach out to Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation, Inc., 236 N. 6th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672 or call 785-743-2070.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690388420935.jpeg" alt="Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital, WaKeeney. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital, WaKeeney. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedWAKEENEY - Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation, Inc.&nbsp;is pleased to announce they have received a $115,000 tax credit allocation&nbsp;in Community Service Program (CSP) Tax Credits through the Kansas Department of Commerce. The available tax credits will be used to enhance fundraising efforts for&nbsp;the "TCLMH Renovation &amp; Expansion Project."CSP is a popular program for Kansas nonprofits and public healthcare entities taking on major capital campaigns for projects involving children and family services, non-governmental crime prevention, youth apprenticeship and youth technical training and health care. Awarded nonprofits were chosen through a competitive application process. State tax credits reduce the total amount of taxes owed to the state. They are a way for taxpayers to substantially reduce the cost of contributing to&nbsp;Trego County through Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation.These are your tax dollars; let's put them to work at home for the improvements to healthcare in Trego County.Many of the construction/building items, and improvements are necessary.&nbsp; Some could have been done years ago. They weren't, but will be now.&nbsp; Boilers, HVAC, ventilation are all items that even specs have changed on over the years.&nbsp; Technology, security, and patient rooms bring us into this century and prepare us for years to come.&nbsp; Making improvements to existing healthcare, also gives us the ability to improve ourselves, and tap into valuable resources.Businesses and individuals subject to Kansas income tax are eligible to receive a tax credit through this program. Donors giving at least $250 to&nbsp;Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation, Inc. "TCLMH Renovation &amp; Expansion Project"&nbsp;may qualify for a&nbsp;(70%/50%)&nbsp;tax credit. For example, a donor making a $1,000 gift receives a&nbsp;($700/$500)&nbsp;tax credit when they file their state taxes, making the net cost to the donor only&nbsp;($300/$500).“CSP amplifies the mission of awarded community service organizations and their projects by encouraging donations through the benefit of state tax credits,” said Kayla Savage, director of the Community Development Division. “When you donate to an awarded CSP project, you have the opportunity to support a project and receive a state tax credit to reduce your taxable income.”If you or your business are interested in donating to Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation, Inc. "TCLMH Renovation &amp; Expansion Project," please reach out to Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation, Inc., 236 N. 6th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672 or call 785-743-2070.&nbsp;

WaKeeney hospital renovation project eligible for state tax credit donations 

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

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690910684377.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

🎥 Green and Growing: Strawberries

The Graham County Fair continues tonight and Wednesday with more of the Jayhawker Roundup Rodeo.&nbsp;

Muttin' bustin' starts at 6 p.m. The rodeo will start at 8 p.m. followed by D Bar's Wittle Buckers and Bull Fighting. Jimmy Dee will provide live music at 10 p.m.

Kids' games and a mechanical bull will be from 6 to 8 p.m.

A free barbecue will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday with more rodeo to follow.

Music will be 3 X 7 at 10 p.m. Wednesday.

See the flyer below for a complete schedule. You also can follow the fair on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083138720862&amp;mibextid=LQQJ4d">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;

Photos and video by Joe Lohmeyer/Hays Post

<div>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4u8N-UDstug" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Hays PostThe Graham County Fair continues tonight and Wednesday with more of the Jayhawker Roundup Rodeo.&nbsp;Muttin' bustin' starts at 6 p.m. The rodeo will start at 8 p.m. followed by D Bar's Wittle Buckers and Bull Fighting. Jimmy Dee will provide live music at 10 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690908173506.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Kids' games and a mechanical bull will be from 6 to 8 p.m.A free barbecue will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday with more rodeo to follow.Music will be 3 X 7 at 10 p.m. Wednesday.See the flyer below for a complete schedule. You also can follow the fair on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083138720862&amp;mibextid=LQQJ4d">Facebook</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
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 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/O35Ipgyb3OE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690908399745.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Photos and video by Joe Lohmeyer/Hays Post

🎥 Graham County Fair in photos; more fun tonight, Wednesday

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, R-Kan., asked for a quick update and tour Friday afternoon of the growth at the <a href="https://www.firstcareclinic.com/">First Care Clinic</a> in downtown Hays since he was last there.

That was more than a year ago, and there's been a lot of growth since then.

CEO Eric Flax and key staff members talked about the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/863220a0-e21e-4501-80bb-42e5802e82b5">newly opened Express Care</a> in its home at 1301 Main St. and the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/db133474-6b2a-4bb4-96aa-175a62bbb50e">new pharmacy</a> expected to open within a couple of months.

The pharmacy will offer medication at reduced costs for the uninsured and underinsured under the federal <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/opa">340B drug pricing program</a>, Flax said.

"There's just a handful of us who are working to figure out how we ensure that 340B remains a valuable tool for health care providers and their patients," Moran said. "Community health centers have been a valuable part of that opportunity to utilize that 340B program to make things better for those who otherwise wouldn't be able to afford it, particularly prescriptions.&nbsp;

"Today it's much more likely that you get a prescription than you get surgery."

"That's a significant component of the cost of the caring for people and people who are caring for themselves," Moran said.&nbsp;

One year ago, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5c81a17f-33b4-44a3-9a8c-bffca3c81b37">First Care Clinic acquired the Hess Clinic</a>, 1923 E. 22nd St., after the retirement of Dr. Katrina Hess.

The main clinic, 105 E. 13th, continues to hire more providers as its patient load grows.

An announcement was made last week of the hiring of another dentist, Hays native Lucas Walker who is a graduate of Thomas More Prep-Marian High School and the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry.

First Care is the only clinic in the area that houses family medical care, mental health services and general dentistry, all in one location.

"The more services we can offer at one point of care, the more likely the patients are to get treated," said Dr. Christina Fisher, medical director. "It keeps them out of the emergency room."

"Community health centers can help us reduce costs," Moran said. "Not only provide health care for people who need care but also change the health care system in ways that are more efficient."

First Care Clinic is a 501(c)3 nonprofit federally qualified community health center providing health care services for people of all ages, regardless of the patient’s ability to pay. It provides services on a sliding-fee scale to those who qualify.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690817923093.jpeg" alt="First Care CEO Eric Flax shows a dental procedure room to U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan. The community health center just hired another dentist, Hays native Lucas Walker, a graduate of Thomas More Prep-Marian High School and the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. Photos and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>First Care CEO Eric Flax shows a dental procedure room to U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan. The community health center just hired another dentist, Hays native Lucas Walker, a graduate of Thomas More Prep-Marian High School and the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. Photos and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostU.S. Senator Jerry Moran, R-Kan., asked for a quick update and tour Friday afternoon of the growth at the <a href="https://www.firstcareclinic.com/">First Care Clinic</a> in downtown Hays since he was last there.That was more than a year ago, and there's been a lot of growth since then.CEO Eric Flax and key staff members talked about the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/863220a0-e21e-4501-80bb-42e5802e82b5">newly opened Express Care</a> in its home at 1301 Main St. and the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/db133474-6b2a-4bb4-96aa-175a62bbb50e">new pharmacy</a> expected to open within a couple of months.The pharmacy will offer medication at reduced costs for the uninsured and underinsured under the federal <a href="https://www.hrsa.gov/opa">340B drug pricing program</a>, Flax said."There's just a handful of us who are working to figure out how we ensure that 340B remains a valuable tool for health care providers and their patients," Moran said. "Community health centers have been a valuable part of that opportunity to utilize that 340B program to make things better for those who otherwise wouldn't be able to afford it, particularly prescriptions.&nbsp;"Today it's much more likely that you get a prescription than you get surgery."Flax agreed."That's a significant component of the cost of the caring for people and people who are caring for themselves," Moran said.&nbsp;One year ago, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5c81a17f-33b4-44a3-9a8c-bffca3c81b37">First Care Clinic acquired the Hess Clinic</a>, 1923 E. 22nd St., after the retirement of Dr. Katrina Hess.The main clinic, 105 E. 13th, continues to hire more providers as its patient load grows.An announcement was made last week of the hiring of another dentist, Hays native Lucas Walker who is a graduate of Thomas More Prep-Marian High School and the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry.First Care is the only clinic in the area that houses family medical care, mental health services and general dentistry, all in one location.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690836630024.jpeg" alt="First Care Clinic Medical Director Dr. Christine Fisher talks with&nbsp; U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran who met with clinic staff Friday in Hays. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>First Care Clinic Medical Director Dr. Christine Fisher talks with&nbsp; U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran who met with clinic staff Friday in Hays. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"The more services we can offer at one point of care, the more likely the patients are to get treated," said Dr. Christina Fisher, medical director. "It keeps them out of the emergency room.""Community health centers can help us reduce costs," Moran said. "Not only provide health care for people who need care but also change the health care system in ways that are more efficient."First Care Clinic is a 501(c)3 nonprofit federally qualified community health center providing health care services for people of all ages, regardless of the patient’s ability to pay. It provides services on a sliding-fee scale to those who qualify.

Sen. Moran tours new First Care Express Clinic in Hays 

By JULIE DEBES Kansas Wheat

This is day 16, the final day of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

The Kansas wheat harvest is finally drawing to a close with 95 percent of wheat harvest complete, according to the official statistics provided by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service in its crop progress report for the week ending July 30, 2023. That is still well behind last year’s 100 percent completion at this time and the five-year average of nearly 99 percent.

Ahead of the weekend, the last remaining farmers in the harvest field were cutting down toward the Oklahoma border, primarily so they could report numbers to crop insurance, according to Lawson Hemberger, MKC senior location manager of rail terminals who is based out of the Sumner County Terminal in Milan. Hemberger oversees both of MKC’s current terminal elevators as well as the one under construction near Sterling. The terminal in Milan covers Sumner County, southwest of Wichita, and into neighboring Harper and Cowley counties.

The terminal took in its first loads of wheat around June 8. While that makes the length of harvest very long in total, Hemberger noted the majority of acres were harvested by the Fourth of July. The area caught five to six inches of rain that week, forcing farmers out of the field and starting a cycle of every-other-day rain delays, increasing weed pressure and falling test weights.

“This is definitely the first year I’ve seen a wheat harvest go darn near two months long,” he said.

Hemberger noted the area was pretty decent on moisture compared to other areas of Kansas as the wheat came out of dormancy. The wheat was up and looking pretty average, but then the area went all the way to early May before finally catching rain.

Hemberger estimated abandonment ranged from 10 to 15 percent. Some of those planted acres were abandoned before harvest so farmers could plant a second crop, others were zeroed out during harvest when some producers could send the combine down and back once in the field and not even fill up a coffee can.

He noted he was holding his breath when the rains arrived — calling it the do-or-die moment — but the wheat was at the exact right stage to fill the kernels that it put on. Test weights were excellent during the first few weeks of harvest, right at 60 to 60.5 pounds per bushel.

Yields were widespread from five bushels per acre — primarily where crop insurance would not release acres ahead of harvest — up to 48 bushels per acre. For the early part of harvest ahead of the holiday, Hemberger estimated most farmers averaged about 20 bushels per acre.

Protein was exceptional — even higher than last year’s drought-stressed crop — with Hemberger estimating 80 percent of wheat coming in was at 13 percent protein or higher. He noted for wheat report readers that the protein levels are mostly locked in once the wheat matures, meaning the protein values do not drop significantly like test weight.

The Sumner County Terminal has four different pits, allowing MKC to set up a really good segregation plan. Hemberger explained that most of the time they have four to five protein breaks — so trying to separate every percentage point (10 percent, 11 percent, etc.). This year, the crop came in so much higher with protein content that they had to adjust that segregation plan every other day to continue separating the highest protein wheat. He noted they are putting higher protein wheat — 14 and higher — into long-term storage, stashing it away for another time when good protein wheat may not be as readily available as this year’s crop.

Hemberger reported the most consistently reported top wheat variety this year was AgriPro’s Bob Dole, which was developed by K-State. He noted producers also highlighted Larry, also developed at K-State, and Paradise from Polansky Seed, as varieties that performed well in the area this year.

After the big rains around July 4, however, the rain kept coming. As a result, damage has substantially increased on those tail-end acres and test weights dropped off and at the end of harvest were down to 56 to 57 pounds per bushel. Weeds were a whole other debacle as producers struggled to control late-season emergence options in order to harvest. Crop insurance ended up zeroing out some fields due to crabgrass that came in after pigweed was sprayed.

Even with the frustrating end of harvest, Hemberger reported this year’s harvest was better than expected.

“We figured we got about 60 to 65 percent compared to a normal year,” Hemberger said. “Looking back at where we were going into May, we didn’t think we would have a crop at all.”

Despite the challenges the rain caused for the wheat, the ample moisture means the fall crops are looking really good, even with the long period of triple-digit weather that is threatening the crop at a critical growth period. Hemberger noted a rain at the end of last week of 1.5 to 3 inches could not have come at a better time.

Now the challenge is to turn house quickly at the terminal to make space for those fall crops. Most of the wheat will be sent to local mills. The MKC terminal does have two train loaders, but with such a short crop, there is not a strong export market out of Kansas this year. Still, he noted they will load a few trains that were contracted back this spring.

Overall, this wheat harvest will be one for the record books, although not in the way that producers would prefer, according to Justin Gilpin, Kansas Wheat CEO. As of its last estimate, USDA predicted Kansas wheat production will total 208 million bushels on 6.5 million acres, the smallest crop since 1966.

Breaking down that overall number, however, average yields for 2023 are currently estimated at 32 bushels per acre compared to 19.5 bushels per acre in 1966. That gain is directly attributable to the improvement in available wheat genetics, recommended farming practices and decades of on-farm knowledge.

“What shouldn’t be lost in everything that’s going on is the gains that have been made through genetics to try and keep a disaster from being more of a disaster,” Gilpin said. “The 2023 wheat crop had more than its share of twists and turns, but overall, we’ve come a long way. Every year is a little bit different, but 2023 is probably going to be one of those years that does stand out for a long time on charts, and not just due to the overall challenges this crop faced. Combined with the market volatility and unprecedented geopolitical events — everything that is occurring simultaneously within the wheat market right now is pretty incredible.”

Learn more about Gilpin’s perspectives on this year’s harvest, supply-and-demand factors across wheat classes, end-use quality, international market influences and more in the latest episode of the “Wheat’s On Your Mind” podcast at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001IWM8VLBC0qICfIjJkUmKTJa95zUxiq6RWEMfAaMhOKUOsF8WGVfvOWcrlc5SP7ZpcQxXI137SA99AhfBowPXtFt2XQ1r_nkRNTFRSbtAgPyNFLxxh8qAGyZWWCc-Ha5fAmD-TQHAEpiwY0wSMJof9A==&amp;c=Iw5qEmXb85Zdw-UFd0OgiCXMmYx39OuMWRGDS23g0kNZsDVltbpzqQ==&amp;ch=WJB4N_PwO5bKKZsRY5UTg_Lk7tFDnYG5UIIuAu3YHt64cIoEdfRGuw==" target="_blank">wheatsonyourmind.com</a>.

The 2023 Harvest Reports were brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690890009072.png" alt="Kansas Wheat" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Wheat</figcaption>
 </figure>By JULIE DEBES Kansas Wheat This is day 16, the final day of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.The Kansas wheat harvest is finally drawing to a close with 95 percent of wheat harvest complete, according to the official statistics provided by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service in its crop progress report for the week ending July 30, 2023. That is still well behind last year’s 100 percent completion at this time and the five-year average of nearly 99 percent.Ahead of the weekend, the last remaining farmers in the harvest field were cutting down toward the Oklahoma border, primarily so they could report numbers to crop insurance, according to Lawson Hemberger, MKC senior location manager of rail terminals who is based out of the Sumner County Terminal in Milan. Hemberger oversees both of MKC’s current terminal elevators as well as the one under construction near Sterling. The terminal in Milan covers Sumner County, southwest of Wichita, and into neighboring Harper and Cowley counties.The terminal took in its first loads of wheat around June 8. While that makes the length of harvest very long in total, Hemberger noted the majority of acres were harvested by the Fourth of July. The area caught five to six inches of rain that week, forcing farmers out of the field and starting a cycle of every-other-day rain delays, increasing weed pressure and falling test weights.“This is definitely the first year I’ve seen a wheat harvest go darn near two months long,” he said.Hemberger noted the area was pretty decent on moisture compared to other areas of Kansas as the wheat came out of dormancy. The wheat was up and looking pretty average, but then the area went all the way to early May before finally catching rain.Hemberger estimated abandonment ranged from 10 to 15 percent. Some of those planted acres were abandoned before harvest so farmers could plant a second crop, others were zeroed out during harvest when some producers could send the combine down and back once in the field and not even fill up a coffee can.He noted he was holding his breath when the rains arrived — calling it the do-or-die moment — but the wheat was at the exact right stage to fill the kernels that it put on. Test weights were excellent during the first few weeks of harvest, right at 60 to 60.5 pounds per bushel.Yields were widespread from five bushels per acre — primarily where crop insurance would not release acres ahead of harvest — up to 48 bushels per acre. For the early part of harvest ahead of the holiday, Hemberger estimated most farmers averaged about 20 bushels per acre.Protein was exceptional — even higher than last year’s drought-stressed crop — with Hemberger estimating 80 percent of wheat coming in was at 13 percent protein or higher. He noted for wheat report readers that the protein levels are mostly locked in once the wheat matures, meaning the protein values do not drop significantly like test weight.The Sumner County Terminal has four different pits, allowing MKC to set up a really good segregation plan. Hemberger explained that most of the time they have four to five protein breaks — so trying to separate every percentage point (10 percent, 11 percent, etc.). This year, the crop came in so much higher with protein content that they had to adjust that segregation plan every other day to continue separating the highest protein wheat. He noted they are putting higher protein wheat — 14 and higher — into long-term storage, stashing it away for another time when good protein wheat may not be as readily available as this year’s crop.Hemberger reported the most consistently reported top wheat variety this year was AgriPro’s Bob Dole, which was developed by K-State. He noted producers also highlighted Larry, also developed at K-State, and Paradise from Polansky Seed, as varieties that performed well in the area this year.After the big rains around July 4, however, the rain kept coming. As a result, damage has substantially increased on those tail-end acres and test weights dropped off and at the end of harvest were down to 56 to 57 pounds per bushel. Weeds were a whole other debacle as producers struggled to control late-season emergence options in order to harvest. Crop insurance ended up zeroing out some fields due to crabgrass that came in after pigweed was sprayed.Even with the frustrating end of harvest, Hemberger reported this year’s harvest was better than expected.“We figured we got about 60 to 65 percent compared to a normal year,” Hemberger said. “Looking back at where we were going into May, we didn’t think we would have a crop at all.”Despite the challenges the rain caused for the wheat, the ample moisture means the fall crops are looking really good, even with the long period of triple-digit weather that is threatening the crop at a critical growth period. Hemberger noted a rain at the end of last week of 1.5 to 3 inches could not have come at a better time.Now the challenge is to turn house quickly at the terminal to make space for those fall crops. Most of the wheat will be sent to local mills. The MKC terminal does have two train loaders, but with such a short crop, there is not a strong export market out of Kansas this year. Still, he noted they will load a few trains that were contracted back this spring.Overall, this wheat harvest will be one for the record books, although not in the way that producers would prefer, according to Justin Gilpin, Kansas Wheat CEO. As of its last estimate, USDA predicted Kansas wheat production will total 208 million bushels on 6.5 million acres, the smallest crop since 1966.Breaking down that overall number, however, average yields for 2023 are currently estimated at 32 bushels per acre compared to 19.5 bushels per acre in 1966. That gain is directly attributable to the improvement in available wheat genetics, recommended farming practices and decades of on-farm knowledge.“What shouldn’t be lost in everything that’s going on is the gains that have been made through genetics to try and keep a disaster from being more of a disaster,” Gilpin said. “The 2023 wheat crop had more than its share of twists and turns, but overall, we’ve come a long way. Every year is a little bit different, but 2023 is probably going to be one of those years that does stand out for a long time on charts, and not just due to the overall challenges this crop faced. Combined with the market volatility and unprecedented geopolitical events — everything that is occurring simultaneously within the wheat market right now is pretty incredible.”Learn more about Gilpin’s perspectives on this year’s harvest, supply-and-demand factors across wheat classes, end-use quality, international market influences and more in the latest episode of the “Wheat’s On Your Mind” podcast at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001IWM8VLBC0qICfIjJkUmKTJa95zUxiq6RWEMfAaMhOKUOsF8WGVfvOWcrlc5SP7ZpcQxXI137SA99AhfBowPXtFt2XQ1r_nkRNTFRSbtAgPyNFLxxh8qAGyZWWCc-Ha5fAmD-TQHAEpiwY0wSMJof9A==&amp;c=Iw5qEmXb85Zdw-UFd0OgiCXMmYx39OuMWRGDS23g0kNZsDVltbpzqQ==&amp;ch=WJB4N_PwO5bKKZsRY5UTg_Lk7tFDnYG5UIIuAu3YHt64cIoEdfRGuw==" target="_blank">wheatsonyourmind.com</a>.The 2023 Harvest Reports were brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

KANSAS WHEAT: Final report after 2-month harvest and 95% completion

Sixth annual event to bring people from around the U.S. to Lake Wilson for a weekend filled with live music, festive atmosphere and scenic views

RUSSELL
COUNTY—Once again, Bluegrass music will fill the air at Wilson Lake during the
sixth-annual Lovegrass Music Festival.

Scheduled
Aug. 10 through 12, the event brings people from across the U.S. together to
celebrate and enjoy traditional music, nature and camaraderie formed around the
truly American art form. 

Located in
the Hill Creek area, near the Lake Wilson Marina, executive director Aimee
Riegel said six headline acts will be featured Friday and Saturday, along with
a band performing on the water Saturday.

The
event kicks off Thursday with a social event, with an open mic at 6 p.m. and a
jam session at 9:30 p.m.

“If you
play an instrument, bring it out,” Riegel said. “We'd like to do some pickin’
and grinnin’.”

Friday
and Saturday morning will then feature educational workshops.

Friday
night’s concert will feature Arkansas-based Arkansauce. Front Porch
and John Depew with Andrew Morris will begin at 5 p.m.

Arkansauce
“came out last year for the first time, and they were a crowd favorite,” Riegel
said.

Saturday
afternoon Old Fangled will perform from a pontoon in a nearby cove below the
festival grounds.

The
night’s concert will feature Emporia-based Fireside Collective with the Whisky
Mash Band and Weda Skirts as openers, starting at 5 p.m. as well.

Together
the bands will represent the spectrum of the Bluegrass style.

“We have
anything from a kind of more of like a progressive type Bluegrass, where they
get a little bit more into the instrumental type jamming to harmony singing,”
Riegel said.

The
event is free to attend, but registration is requested through the Lovegrass
website, <a href="https://www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com/">lovegrassmusicfestival.com.</a> A full schedule of events is also available.

And
support for the non-profit is appreciated, Riegel said.

“If you
feel like you would want to give a certain amount for your ticket, you can do
that online,” she said. “That keeps us sustainable.”

Registration
also helps the organization collect demographic information that assists with
procuring grant funding.

With the
music-filled weekend, Riegel said she hopes to provide further access to live
music in the area.

“That's
why we do this,” she said. “We want to let everyone access live music,
especially in rural areas.”

Strengthening
the northwest Kansas economy is also important to the organization.

While
the weekend is the keynote event, Riegel said planning, fundraisers and other
concerts happen throughout the year.

“Each
year, we have to start fresh,” she said. “Our fundraising efforts start now for
next year's events.”

“And any
money that we make during this festival will go toward next year and future events.”

Funds
are supplemented by a volunteer workforce.

“I think
right now we have around 40 to 50 volunteers to help us out,” Riegel said. “We
give them free breakfast every morning, kind of a fun family-type event there.
And some other free perks like camping for free in our primitive camping areas.”

<a href="https://www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com/">Signup information can also be
found on the Lovegrass website.</a>

“We have
people of all ages, all different cultures,” Riegel said.&nbsp; "It is super fun.
We just have this really great vibe and family feel.”

“We love
people who want to come out and lend a hand and join our Lovegrass crew. It
takes an army to put something on like this, especially for setup and teardown…
but it's all worth it in the long run. It's such fun, and we really appreciate
those that lend a hand to us.”

<h2>Sixth annual event to bring people from around the U.S. to Lake Wilson for a weekend filled with live music, festive atmosphere and scenic views</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690561948116.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Sixth annual Lovegrass Music Festival to bring people from around the U.S. to Lake Wilson for a weekend filled with live music, festive atmosphere and scenic views" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=qtrzb-1468d85-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostRUSSELL
COUNTY—Once again, Bluegrass music will fill the air at Wilson Lake during the
sixth-annual Lovegrass Music Festival.Scheduled
Aug. 10 through 12, the event brings people from across the U.S. together to
celebrate and enjoy traditional music, nature and camaraderie formed around the
truly American art form. Located in
the Hill Creek area, near the Lake Wilson Marina, executive director Aimee
Riegel said six headline acts will be featured Friday and Saturday, along with
a band performing on the water Saturday.The
event kicks off Thursday with a social event, with an open mic at 6 p.m. and a
jam session at 9:30 p.m.“If you
play an instrument, bring it out,” Riegel said. “We'd like to do some pickin’
and grinnin’.”Friday
and Saturday morning will then feature educational workshops.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Flovegrassmusicfestival%2Fvideos%2F692507852716298%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Friday
night’s concert will feature Arkansas-based Arkansauce. Front Porch
and John Depew with Andrew Morris will begin at 5 p.m.Arkansauce
“came out last year for the first time, and they were a crowd favorite,” Riegel
said.Saturday
afternoon Old Fangled will perform from a pontoon in a nearby cove below the
festival grounds.The
night’s concert will feature Emporia-based Fireside Collective with the Whisky
Mash Band and Weda Skirts as openers, starting at 5 p.m. as well.Together
the bands will represent the spectrum of the Bluegrass style.“We have
anything from a kind of more of like a progressive type Bluegrass, where they
get a little bit more into the instrumental type jamming to harmony singing,”
Riegel said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690562206290.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The
event is free to attend, but registration is requested through the Lovegrass
website, <a href="https://www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com/">lovegrassmusicfestival.com.</a> A full schedule of events is also available.And
support for the non-profit is appreciated, Riegel said.“If you
feel like you would want to give a certain amount for your ticket, you can do
that online,” she said. “That keeps us sustainable.”Registration
also helps the organization collect demographic information that assists with
procuring grant funding.With the
music-filled weekend, Riegel said she hopes to provide further access to live
music in the area.“That's
why we do this,” she said. “We want to let everyone access live music,
especially in rural areas.”Strengthening
the northwest Kansas economy is also important to the organization.While
the weekend is the keynote event, Riegel said planning, fundraisers and other
concerts happen throughout the year.“Each
year, we have to start fresh,” she said. “Our fundraising efforts start now for
next year's events.”“And any
money that we make during this festival will go toward next year and future events.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690562291420.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Funds
are supplemented by a volunteer workforce.“I think
right now we have around 40 to 50 volunteers to help us out,” Riegel said. “We
give them free breakfast every morning, kind of a fun family-type event there.
And some other free perks like camping for free in our primitive camping areas.”<a href="https://www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com/">Signup information can also be
found on the Lovegrass website.</a>“We have
people of all ages, all different cultures,” Riegel said.&nbsp; "It is super fun.
We just have this really great vibe and family feel.”“We love
people who want to come out and lend a hand and join our Lovegrass crew. It
takes an army to put something on like this, especially for setup and teardown…
but it's all worth it in the long run. It's such fun, and we really appreciate
those that lend a hand to us.”

🎙 Bluegrass fans to gather for Lovegrass Music Festival Aug. 10-12

Celebrate with the Hays Public Library Foundation! The Foundation is hosting the 3rd&nbsp;Annual Wine &amp; Cheese Fundraiser on September 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Hays Public Library.

The event will begin with a wine and cheese social hour, followed by a fascinating, inspiring, and fun presentation from Kansas Sampler Foundation Executive Director Marci Penner. The evening also will include a raffle and silent auction.

The Hays Public Library Foundation was established in 2001 to&nbsp;serve as a source for funding emergent and unexpected needs and events associated with the library. 

In the past the Foundation has contributed to the purchase of the bookmobile and to the 2021 library remodel. 

The library currently is working on plans to update the basement which houses most of the adult collection. 

More information about the Foundation and ways to contribute is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/foundation" target="_blank">hayslibrary.org/foundation</a>.

&nbsp;Tickets cost $30 and can be purchased at the library or online at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/event" target="_blank">hayslibrary.org/event</a>. There are a limited number of tickets. Businesses interested in sponsoring the event or providing items for the silent auction or raffle are encouraged to contact Callie Kolacny at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ckolacny@hayslibrary.org">ckolacny@hayslibrary.org</a>.

You can find out more about this and other library programs online at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/" target="_blank">hayslibrary.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-625-9014.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794847755.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>HPLCelebrate with the Hays Public Library Foundation! The Foundation is hosting the 3rd&nbsp;Annual Wine &amp; Cheese Fundraiser on September 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Hays Public Library.The event will begin with a wine and cheese social hour, followed by a fascinating, inspiring, and fun presentation from Kansas Sampler Foundation Executive Director Marci Penner. The evening also will include a raffle and silent auction.The Hays Public Library Foundation was established in 2001 to&nbsp;serve as a source for funding emergent and unexpected needs and events associated with the library. In the past the Foundation has contributed to the purchase of the bookmobile and to the 2021 library remodel. The library currently is working on plans to update the basement which houses most of the adult collection. More information about the Foundation and ways to contribute is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/foundation" target="_blank">hayslibrary.org/foundation</a>.&nbsp;Tickets cost $30 and can be purchased at the library or online at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/event" target="_blank">hayslibrary.org/event</a>. There are a limited number of tickets. Businesses interested in sponsoring the event or providing items for the silent auction or raffle are encouraged to contact Callie Kolacny at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ckolacny@hayslibrary.org">ckolacny@hayslibrary.org</a>.You can find out more about this and other library programs online at&nbsp;<a href="http://hayslibrary.org/" target="_blank">hayslibrary.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-625-9014.

Wine, cheese fundraiser to benefit Hays Public Library Foundation

First Care Clinic, Hays, is pleased to announce the hiring of Dr. Lucas Walker, DDS. Walker graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. He is a Hays native and graduated high school at Thomas More Prep-Marian.

First Care Clinic CEO, Eric Flax said, “We are very excited to welcome Dr. Walker to our clinic. We look forward to his contribution to our dental department and our clinic as we continue our mission of providing quality, compassionate healthcare to all.”

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

First Care Clinic is a federally funded community health center, providing non-emergency medical services for people of all ages, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. We provide primary medical care, mental health services, general dentistry, and express care across our three locations in Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690814814570.jpeg" alt="Dr. Lucas Walker (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Lucas Walker (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedFirst Care Clinic, Hays, is pleased to announce the hiring of Dr. Lucas Walker, DDS. Walker graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. He is a Hays native and graduated high school at Thomas More Prep-Marian.First Care Clinic CEO, Eric Flax said, “We are very excited to welcome Dr. Walker to our clinic. We look forward to his contribution to our dental department and our clinic as we continue our mission of providing quality, compassionate healthcare to all.”First Care Clinic accepts most major insurances and also offers a sliding fee scale to those who qualify. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 785-621-4990.ABOUT FIRST CARE CLINIC, INC.First Care Clinic is a federally funded community health center, providing non-emergency medical services for people of all ages, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. We provide primary medical care, mental health services, general dentistry, and express care across our three locations in Hays.

First Care Clinic welcomes new dentist

August 1 signifies the kickoff for World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7) as well as August as National Breastfeeding Month. 

Each year the United States Breastfeeding Committee requests a Congressional Proclamation to declare August as National Breastfeeding Month in the United States. 

In 2021, the USBC piloted a toolkit that individuals could use to urge their governor to proclaim August as "Breastfeeding Month" in their state or territory. Kansas has joined the list! Governor Kelly signed the proclamation for Kansas on July 29, 2023. The theme this year is “This is Our Why.”

National Breastfeeding Month 2023 Weekly Observances •Week 1 (August 1-7): World Breastfeeding Week Theme: Enabling&nbsp;Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents •Week 2 (August 8-14): Indigenous Milk Medicine Week Theme: From the Stars to a Sustainable Future •Week 3 (August 15-21): Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Breastfeeding Week Theme: Telling Our Stories, Elevating Our Voices! •Week 4 (August 25-31): Black Breastfeeding Week Theme: We Outside!: Celebrating Connection &amp; Our Communities •New Week 5 (September 5-11): Semana de La Lactancia Latina Theme: to be announced.

Most of us have heard about how breastfeeding positively affects the health of infants and toddlers. Breastfeeding also positively impacts families financially as well as the environment. 

However, many have not heard about the positive impacts on a mother’s health. Women who breastfeed their children lower their risk of breast cancer. According to an epidemiological study published in the The Lancet, breastfeeding is dose specific. For every 12 months of breastfeeding, the risk of breast cancer goes down by 4.3%. This can be for one child or a combination of children. 

Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of ovarian cancer, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes as reported by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. 

Finally, studies also show that breastfeeding can help lower the risk of osteoporosis and stroke.

 That is a lot of health benefits that make for healthier women and society. And those are only the physical health benefits. There are also social-emotional benefits as well that help with bonding and parenting.

Just because a woman wants to breastfeed though doesn’t mean that she has the support to do so. While breastfeeding is natural, it isn’t always easy. 

The World Breastfeeding Week campaign this year focuses on “Enabling Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents.” Workplace challenges remain the most common reason for women to never start breastfeeding or stop breastfeeding earlier then recommended.

Join us to celebrate mothers and work to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding and human milk feeding for the 13th annual National Breastfeeding Month. 

In Hays and Ellis County, La Leche League of the Western Plains, the Ellis County Breastfeeding Coalition, and Cottonwood Extension District will display the traveling photography exhibit “In My Mother’s Arms” during the Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk from 6:00-9:00 p.m. on August 25, 2023 at 601 Main Street. 

The traveling photography exhibit’s goal is to normalize breastfeeding. 

<a href="https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/">https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/</a> <a href="https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/">https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/national-breastfeeding-month.html</a>

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at&nbsp; 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension , Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension , Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>August 1 signifies the kickoff for World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7) as well as August as National Breastfeeding Month. Each year the United States Breastfeeding Committee requests a Congressional Proclamation to declare August as National Breastfeeding Month in the United States. In 2021, the USBC piloted a toolkit that individuals could use to urge their governor to proclaim August as "Breastfeeding Month" in their state or territory. Kansas has joined the list! Governor Kelly signed the proclamation for Kansas on July 29, 2023. The theme this year is “This is Our Why.”National Breastfeeding Month 2023 Weekly Observances •Week 1 (August 1-7): World Breastfeeding Week Theme: Enabling&nbsp;Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents •Week 2 (August 8-14): Indigenous Milk Medicine Week Theme: From the Stars to a Sustainable Future •Week 3 (August 15-21): Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Breastfeeding Week Theme: Telling Our Stories, Elevating Our Voices! •Week 4 (August 25-31): Black Breastfeeding Week Theme: We Outside!: Celebrating Connection &amp; Our Communities •New Week 5 (September 5-11): Semana de La Lactancia Latina Theme: to be announced.Most of us have heard about how breastfeeding positively affects the health of infants and toddlers. Breastfeeding also positively impacts families financially as well as the environment. However, many have not heard about the positive impacts on a mother’s health. Women who breastfeed their children lower their risk of breast cancer. According to an epidemiological study published in the The Lancet, breastfeeding is dose specific. For every 12 months of breastfeeding, the risk of breast cancer goes down by 4.3%. This can be for one child or a combination of children. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of ovarian cancer, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes as reported by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Finally, studies also show that breastfeeding can help lower the risk of osteoporosis and stroke. That is a lot of health benefits that make for healthier women and society. And those are only the physical health benefits. There are also social-emotional benefits as well that help with bonding and parenting.Just because a woman wants to breastfeed though doesn’t mean that she has the support to do so. While breastfeeding is natural, it isn’t always easy. The World Breastfeeding Week campaign this year focuses on “Enabling Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents.” Workplace challenges remain the most common reason for women to never start breastfeeding or stop breastfeeding earlier then recommended.Join us to celebrate mothers and work to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding and human milk feeding for the 13th annual National Breastfeeding Month. In Hays and Ellis County, La Leche League of the Western Plains, the Ellis County Breastfeeding Coalition, and Cottonwood Extension District will display the traveling photography exhibit “In My Mother’s Arms” during the Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk from 6:00-9:00 p.m. on August 25, 2023 at 601 Main Street. The traveling photography exhibit’s goal is to normalize breastfeeding. <a href="https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/">https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/</a> <a href="https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/">https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/national-breastfeeding-month.html</a>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at&nbsp; 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: World Breastfeeding Month/Week

By PAT MELGARES K-State News Service

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;A Kansas State University agricultural economist has been selected to lead a five-year project to develop decision-making tools and improve communication on the economic impacts of animal disease, ultimately improving the health of those animals. Dustin Pendell, a professor in K-State's&nbsp;department of&nbsp;agricultural&nbsp;economics, was named head of the&nbsp;Americas region of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-offer/expertise-network/collaborating-centres/" target="_blank">Collaborating Center for the Economics of Animal Health</a>. The project is supported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.woah.org/en/home/" target="_blank">World Organisation for Animal Health</a>, or WOAH,&nbsp;which has headquarters in Paris, France. WOAH&nbsp;—&nbsp;similar in purpose to that of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.who.int/" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a>, which preserves and promotes human health&nbsp;—&nbsp;approved the creation of the center during its 90th General Assembly in late May. WOAH has 183 member countries, 33 of which are in the Americas region. "Our thought process is that we can start to work together across these 33 countries in the Americas region to develop a set of consistent methods and tools that everyone can use to estimate the economic impacts of animal health,"&nbsp;Pendell said.&nbsp;"Then&nbsp;we can take that knowledge that we generate and disseminate that information back to the decision-makers, whether that be animal health officials, producers or anybody throughout the supply chain, so they can make better management decisions." The Collaborating Center for the Economics of Animal Health-Americas centers its operations at K-State's Manhattan campus, though there are no physical buildings representing the group. It will involve partners at the University of Sao Paulo,&nbsp;University of Brasilia,&nbsp;Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico and Washington State University. The center will focus its effort on animal health related to terrestrial livestock&nbsp;—&nbsp;animals that live primarily on land&nbsp;—&nbsp;and aquaculture. "As an economist, I will focus my work in that area, but this&nbsp;center is much more than economics,"&nbsp;Pendell said.&nbsp;"It will take multiple disciplines, such as veterinarians, economists, epidemiologists, engineers and more, to make this a success." Pendell said he anticipates the&nbsp;center's work will build upon recent global efforts such as the Global Burden of Animal Diseases,&nbsp;or&nbsp;GBADs,&nbsp;and Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases,&nbsp;a joint effort of WOAH and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. "The GBADs team has been working together for the past five years or so,&nbsp;during which time we've been developing methods on how we estimate the burden of animal health,"&nbsp;Pendell said. Pendell said knowing the burden of animal diseases across the world will not only assist governments and animal health officials invest appropriately in combatting those diseases but will help everyone across the livestock and meat supply chain. "My hope is that we can provide decision-makers with the information such that they will be better able to optimally allocate their limited resources,"&nbsp;he said. Pendell said his vision for the CCEAH-Americas is rooted in&nbsp;K-State's&nbsp;land-grant mission. "As an agricultural economist at a land-grant university, my job is to provide unbiased research to our stakeholders, such that they can make a better-informed decisions," he said. "We want business management decisions to be based on more than just a gut feeling. My vision for this center incorporates the land-grant philosophy and gets the research into the hands of the stakeholders, both here at home and around the world."&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643991102978.jpeg" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>By PAT MELGARES K-State News Service MANHATTAN —&nbsp;A Kansas State University agricultural economist has been selected to lead a five-year project to develop decision-making tools and improve communication on the economic impacts of animal disease, ultimately improving the health of those animals. Dustin Pendell, a professor in K-State's&nbsp;department of&nbsp;agricultural&nbsp;economics, was named head of the&nbsp;Americas region of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-offer/expertise-network/collaborating-centres/" target="_blank">Collaborating Center for the Economics of Animal Health</a>. The project is supported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.woah.org/en/home/" target="_blank">World Organisation for Animal Health</a>, or WOAH,&nbsp;which has headquarters in Paris, France. WOAH&nbsp;—&nbsp;similar in purpose to that of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.who.int/" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a>, which preserves and promotes human health&nbsp;—&nbsp;approved the creation of the center during its 90th General Assembly in late May. WOAH has 183 member countries, 33 of which are in the Americas region. "Our thought process is that we can start to work together across these 33 countries in the Americas region to develop a set of consistent methods and tools that everyone can use to estimate the economic impacts of animal health,"&nbsp;Pendell said.&nbsp;"Then&nbsp;we can take that knowledge that we generate and disseminate that information back to the decision-makers, whether that be animal health officials, producers or anybody throughout the supply chain, so they can make better management decisions." The Collaborating Center for the Economics of Animal Health-Americas centers its operations at K-State's Manhattan campus, though there are no physical buildings representing the group. It will involve partners at the University of Sao Paulo,&nbsp;University of Brasilia,&nbsp;Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico and Washington State University. The center will focus its effort on animal health related to terrestrial livestock&nbsp;—&nbsp;animals that live primarily on land&nbsp;—&nbsp;and aquaculture. "As an economist, I will focus my work in that area, but this&nbsp;center is much more than economics,"&nbsp;Pendell said.&nbsp;"It will take multiple disciplines, such as veterinarians, economists, epidemiologists, engineers and more, to make this a success." Pendell said he anticipates the&nbsp;center's work will build upon recent global efforts such as the Global Burden of Animal Diseases,&nbsp;or&nbsp;GBADs,&nbsp;and Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases,&nbsp;a joint effort of WOAH and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. "The GBADs team has been working together for the past five years or so,&nbsp;during which time we've been developing methods on how we estimate the burden of animal health,"&nbsp;Pendell said. Pendell said knowing the burden of animal diseases across the world will not only assist governments and animal health officials invest appropriately in combatting those diseases but will help everyone across the livestock and meat supply chain. "My hope is that we can provide decision-makers with the information such that they will be better able to optimally allocate their limited resources,"&nbsp;he said. Pendell said his vision for the CCEAH-Americas is rooted in&nbsp;K-State's&nbsp;land-grant mission. "As an agricultural economist at a land-grant university, my job is to provide unbiased research to our stakeholders, such that they can make a better-informed decisions," he said. "We want business management decisions to be based on more than just a gut feeling. My vision for this center incorporates the land-grant philosophy and gets the research into the hands of the stakeholders, both here at home and around the world."&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State chosen to lead global animal health effort

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690835591859.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>

ELI Wireline is hiring for a Wireline Repair and Maintenance Technician for their Hays or Hutchinson facility. 

The position is a hands-on, rewarding role where you will be performing wireline repair and maintenance in the oil and gas industry.

In a workshop environment, this individual has responsibility for providing "hands-on" technical support to the production and repair of equipment and tools. They will also receive field tools, disassemble them, and repair and refurbish the tool to go back to the field using blueprints, manuals and following protocols.

Three or more years of related experience in repair and maintenance is required.

Benefits include 100 percent Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by the employer, 401K, and a competitive salary.

If interested, please apply at 1327 Rome Road, Hays, Kansas 67601 or&nbsp;email an application to scott.case@eliwireline.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642173081488.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELI Wireline is hiring for a Wireline Repair and Maintenance Technician for their Hays or Hutchinson facility. The position is a hands-on, rewarding role where you will be performing wireline repair and maintenance in the oil and gas industry.In a workshop environment, this individual has responsibility for providing "hands-on" technical support to the production and repair of equipment and tools. They will also receive field tools, disassemble them, and repair and refurbish the tool to go back to the field using blueprints, manuals and following protocols.Three or more years of related experience in repair and maintenance is required.Benefits include 100 percent Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by the employer, 401K, and a competitive salary.If interested, please apply at 1327 Rome Road, Hays, Kansas 67601 or&nbsp;email an application to scott.case@eliwireline.com.

2 hospitalized after NW Kansas rear-end crash

The 14th&nbsp;annual Tiger Auction and Dinner will take place on Saturday, August 19&nbsp;in the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility on the campus of Fort Hays State University. Doors open at 4 p.m., dinner is served at 5 p.m., and the live auction begins at 6:30 p.m. and will end around 10 p.m. Tickets are available online or through the FHSU Athletic Department at 785-628-4050. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/feature/fhsutigerauction">www.tigerauction.org</a>&nbsp;for more information on the event. The event on Saturday, August 19 consists of about 80 live auction items and about 200 silent auction items. Ticket Price Increases After August 4 Get your tickets today by purchasing online or dropping by the FHSU Athletics office on the campus of Fort Hays State University. Tickets are $100 per person, but the price will increase to $125 per person starting August 5. The event is limited to 800 tickets sold. A ticket is good for admission to the event and a bid number, along with food and unlimited drinks throughout the evening. <a href="https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2new/BuyNew.asp?EventID=329738">BUY TICKETS HERE</a> FHSU Athletic Office Summer Hours (until Aug. 4) 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Friday Closed Saturday and Sunday Phone: (785) 628-4050 Office hours return to standard 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday on August 7. Online Auction There is still an online portion of the auction with a limited number of items that precedes the live in-person event running from Monday, August 14 through Wednesday, August 16, which will give supporters an additional chance to support Tiger Athletics from any location. Raffle Tickets Supporters can purchase $50 raffle tickets, which are good for a chance to win eight $1,000 cash prizes given out throughout the night (you do not have to be present to win). A $2000 cash prize will be given out before the last live item is sold, but the winner must be present for that drawing. Chamber Chat on Friday, August 18 FHSU Athletics will host a Chamber Chat at the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility on Friday, August 18 at 9 a.m. Tiger supporters can get a sneak peek at some of the items at that event. Table Sponsors If you would like to be a table sponsor for $2,000, it includes auction tickets for 12 at your table, along with two all-sport general admission season tickets, and recognition in the auction catalog. Tables without sponsorship for 12 people can be purchased for $1,200. Tiger Auction Item #40 Unlike previous years, Item #40 this year is not a tangible item. The simple truth is our biggest need is addressing&nbsp;Scholarships&nbsp;and inflationary costs associated with all aspects of our operations. By specifically targeting&nbsp;Scholarships, we will free up resources necessary to address the rising costs associated with day-to-day operations such as team transportation, meals, lodging, facility upkeep, etc. While tangible items are always exciting for the advancement of our programs, this year's needs are no less important in providing a quality experience for our approximately 500 student-athletes. Your donation to #40 will directly impact those student-athlete experiences! Our Item #40 goal this year is to generate an additional $100,000 on the day of the auction. Truly, every gift matters, so please consider making a tax-deductible donation to Item #40 this year. Donations can be paid in installments throughout the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. This is one of the biggest annual events for the FHSU Athletic Department, which raised a record $778,501 in 2022. It was the first time Tiger supporters graciously topped the $500,000 mark in the 13-year history of the event. This will be the sixth Tiger Auction and Dinner hosted inside the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility, which has served as the venue for the event since 2017. The move to the large, spacious facility was a necessity due to this very popular event selling out year after year when held at the Memorial Union Ballroom in its early years. The move has allowed several more Tiger supporters to attend annually in recent years. Thank you in advance for your support of Tiger Athletics!&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690561791156.jpeg" alt="FHSU-Tiger Auction.jpg" />
 <figcaption>FHSU-Tiger Auction.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsThe 14th&nbsp;annual Tiger Auction and Dinner will take place on Saturday, August 19&nbsp;in the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility on the campus of Fort Hays State University. Doors open at 4 p.m., dinner is served at 5 p.m., and the live auction begins at 6:30 p.m. and will end around 10 p.m. Tickets are available online or through the FHSU Athletic Department at 785-628-4050. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/feature/fhsutigerauction">www.tigerauction.org</a>&nbsp;for more information on the event. The event on Saturday, August 19 consists of about 80 live auction items and about 200 silent auction items. Ticket Price Increases After August 4 Get your tickets today by purchasing online or dropping by the FHSU Athletics office on the campus of Fort Hays State University. Tickets are $100 per person, but the price will increase to $125 per person starting August 5. The event is limited to 800 tickets sold. A ticket is good for admission to the event and a bid number, along with food and unlimited drinks throughout the evening. <a href="https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2new/BuyNew.asp?EventID=329738">BUY TICKETS HERE</a> FHSU Athletic Office Summer Hours (until Aug. 4) 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Friday Closed Saturday and Sunday Phone: (785) 628-4050 Office hours return to standard 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday on August 7. Online Auction There is still an online portion of the auction with a limited number of items that precedes the live in-person event running from Monday, August 14 through Wednesday, August 16, which will give supporters an additional chance to support Tiger Athletics from any location. Raffle Tickets Supporters can purchase $50 raffle tickets, which are good for a chance to win eight $1,000 cash prizes given out throughout the night (you do not have to be present to win). A $2000 cash prize will be given out before the last live item is sold, but the winner must be present for that drawing. Chamber Chat on Friday, August 18 FHSU Athletics will host a Chamber Chat at the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility on Friday, August 18 at 9 a.m. Tiger supporters can get a sneak peek at some of the items at that event. Table Sponsors If you would like to be a table sponsor for $2,000, it includes auction tickets for 12 at your table, along with two all-sport general admission season tickets, and recognition in the auction catalog. Tables without sponsorship for 12 people can be purchased for $1,200. Tiger Auction Item #40 Unlike previous years, Item #40 this year is not a tangible item. The simple truth is our biggest need is addressing&nbsp;Scholarships&nbsp;and inflationary costs associated with all aspects of our operations. By specifically targeting&nbsp;Scholarships, we will free up resources necessary to address the rising costs associated with day-to-day operations such as team transportation, meals, lodging, facility upkeep, etc. While tangible items are always exciting for the advancement of our programs, this year's needs are no less important in providing a quality experience for our approximately 500 student-athletes. Your donation to #40 will directly impact those student-athlete experiences! Our Item #40 goal this year is to generate an additional $100,000 on the day of the auction. Truly, every gift matters, so please consider making a tax-deductible donation to Item #40 this year. Donations can be paid in installments throughout the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. This is one of the biggest annual events for the FHSU Athletic Department, which raised a record $778,501 in 2022. It was the first time Tiger supporters graciously topped the $500,000 mark in the 13-year history of the event. This will be the sixth Tiger Auction and Dinner hosted inside the Schmidt-Bickle Indoor Training Facility, which has served as the venue for the event since 2017. The move to the large, spacious facility was a necessity due to this very popular event selling out year after year when held at the Memorial Union Ballroom in its early years. The move has allowed several more Tiger supporters to attend annually in recent years. Thank you in advance for your support of Tiger Athletics!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tickets available for 14th annual Tiger Auction and Dinner

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications

Crude prices continue to rise after a three-day rally last week. 

The benchmark New York futures contract was trading over $81 per barrel Monday for the first time since mid-April. Brent crude was fetching a little over $85 per barrel in London. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $70.75 per barrel, after gaining half a dollar on Friday. That's a nearly ten-dollar increase over prices at the start of this month. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes drops to 664 active rigs, down one oil rig and three gas rigs from last week. The breakout for horizontal drilling was down eight rigs. The tally in New Mexico was down two rigs. Oklahoma and Colorado were down one rig each. Louisiana was up two rigs. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is unchanged at 16 in the eastern half of the state, and up one to 23 active rigs west of Wichita. The tally is down nearly five percent from a month ago and down more than 31 percent from a year ago. Operators so far this year have spudded 697 wells, down 201 wells from a year ago. Total footage drilled is down 26 percent. Of the ten new drilling permits filed in western Kansas last week, regulators okayed one in Barton County and one in Stafford County. The statewide year-to-date tally increases by 24 to 744 new permits, compared to 944 a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 36 new well completions statewide, 12 of those in western Kansas. That's 994 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 909 a year ago. The Kansas Geological Survey reported statewide crude production through the first quarter of 2023 of 76,756 barrels per day on total production of just over 6.9 million barrels.

Barton County pumped just under 370,000 barrels or nearly 4,100 barrels per day. Ellis County led the way with 543,000 barrels of production, for an average of 6,040 barrels per day. Operators in Russell County produced 333,000 barrels, while Stafford County pumped 222,000. A new tally shows US crude output in May reached nearly 393,000 barrels, or about 12.6 million barrels per day. That's slightly lower than the daily average in April. The report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration shows operators in Kansas pumped 2.3 million barrels in May, or a little over 76,096 barrels per day. Texas produced more than 40 percent of the national total, pumping more than 170 million barrels, or nearly 5.5 million barrels per day. U.S. crude-oil production declined last week for the third week in a row to the lowest total in nine weeks. The weekly count from the Energy Information Administration shows output of just over 12.2 million barrels per day in the week through July 21, down 99,000 barrels per day from a week earlier and just 74,000 barrels per day more than a year ago.

Production drops to its lowest level since May 17th. Crude oil inventories dropped by 600,000 barrels to 456.8 million as of July 21. The Energy Information Administration said stockpiles are about two percent above the five-year average for this time of year. The U.S. imported 6.4 million barrels per day last week, down 807,000 barrels per day from a week earlier. The four-week average is about one percent higher than a year ago. Oil and gas had the best year ever in Canada.

That's the word from energy analysts who say the country's energy exports increased by nearly $77 BILLION in 2022. Total exports rose 22 percent, and the share of energy products to total exports rose from 21 to 27 percent. The spike comes despite a new call by a government official to phase out what he called "unabated fossil fuels" by ending government energy subsidies in Canada. Oil patch employment continues to rise in Texas. Last month, oil and gas employment in the Lone Star State rose above 200-thousand workers for the first time in more than three years.&nbsp; The Texas Workforce Commission reported that the patch added 2,500 jobs in June. The Kansas Geological Society recognized and named eight new oil fields in Kansas last week. Murfin Drilling Company of Wichita scored two of those in Cheyenne County in northwestern Kansas. The Devil's Canyon Southeast and White Crab fields mark the Wichita company's second and third wildcat discoveries in Cheyenne County this year, and at least their fifth since 1988.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle CommunicationsCrude prices continue to rise after a three-day rally last week. The benchmark New York futures contract was trading over $81 per barrel Monday for the first time since mid-April. Brent crude was fetching a little over $85 per barrel in London. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $70.75 per barrel, after gaining half a dollar on Friday. That's a nearly ten-dollar increase over prices at the start of this month. The weekly Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes drops to 664 active rigs, down one oil rig and three gas rigs from last week. The breakout for horizontal drilling was down eight rigs. The tally in New Mexico was down two rigs. Oklahoma and Colorado were down one rig each. Louisiana was up two rigs. The Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is unchanged at 16 in the eastern half of the state, and up one to 23 active rigs west of Wichita. The tally is down nearly five percent from a month ago and down more than 31 percent from a year ago. Operators so far this year have spudded 697 wells, down 201 wells from a year ago. Total footage drilled is down 26 percent. Of the ten new drilling permits filed in western Kansas last week, regulators okayed one in Barton County and one in Stafford County. The statewide year-to-date tally increases by 24 to 744 new permits, compared to 944 a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 36 new well completions statewide, 12 of those in western Kansas. That's 994 new well-completions so far this year, compared to 909 a year ago. The Kansas Geological Survey reported statewide crude production through the first quarter of 2023 of 76,756 barrels per day on total production of just over 6.9 million barrels. Barton County pumped just under 370,000 barrels or nearly 4,100 barrels per day. Ellis County led the way with 543,000 barrels of production, for an average of 6,040 barrels per day. Operators in Russell County produced 333,000 barrels, while Stafford County pumped 222,000. A new tally shows US crude output in May reached nearly 393,000 barrels, or about 12.6 million barrels per day. That's slightly lower than the daily average in April. The report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration shows operators in Kansas pumped 2.3 million barrels in May, or a little over 76,096 barrels per day. Texas produced more than 40 percent of the national total, pumping more than 170 million barrels, or nearly 5.5 million barrels per day. U.S. crude-oil production declined last week for the third week in a row to the lowest total in nine weeks. The weekly count from the Energy Information Administration shows output of just over 12.2 million barrels per day in the week through July 21, down 99,000 barrels per day from a week earlier and just 74,000 barrels per day more than a year ago. Production drops to its lowest level since May 17th. Crude oil inventories dropped by 600,000 barrels to 456.8 million as of July 21. The Energy Information Administration said stockpiles are about two percent above the five-year average for this time of year. The U.S. imported 6.4 million barrels per day last week, down 807,000 barrels per day from a week earlier. The four-week average is about one percent higher than a year ago. Oil and gas had the best year ever in Canada. That's the word from energy analysts who say the country's energy exports increased by nearly $77 BILLION in 2022. Total exports rose 22 percent, and the share of energy products to total exports rose from 21 to 27 percent. The spike comes despite a new call by a government official to phase out what he called "unabated fossil fuels" by ending government energy subsidies in Canada. Oil patch employment continues to rise in Texas. Last month, oil and gas employment in the Lone Star State rose above 200-thousand workers for the first time in more than three years.&nbsp; The Texas Workforce Commission reported that the patch added 2,500 jobs in June. The Kansas Geological Society recognized and named eight new oil fields in Kansas last week. Murfin Drilling Company of Wichita scored two of those in Cheyenne County in northwestern Kansas. The Devil's Canyon Southeast and White Crab fields mark the Wichita company's second and third wildcat discoveries in Cheyenne County this year, and at least their fifth since 1988.

News From the Oil Patch: Prices rise as output dips 

WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– Reps. Jake LaTurner (R-KS) and Yadira Caraveo, M.D. (D-CO) introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDux8Q-D5Gd5wjqYJZiAqEtUjNQ7rR7XWe20_7I-eCVYL9VohtkhgJDmjU8TxNN-hhOSX7CkKNDVfGdW8C9TSoNxSqftcfEuv6dUjuQ_Dm8NlkJGhj9CadLSqpJ1-47loSIjIwVZnwnOb3F4KuaIYWUWkfJUr5CgIxmzv3ix6Y12JRG4lmBE_kRDnpKnnzo0aBxeyVBsXfpfkWm-N0ARx-0RyVSO36JIG_kOrHEDgkGN5lX4Crw68IIaQ==&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">a bipartisan bill</a>&nbsp;Thursday that will help&nbsp;family farmers and ranchers fight drought.

The&nbsp;Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act&nbsp;gives farmers and ranchers the flexibility they need to protect groundwater sources while also keeping their agricultural lands in production under a new voluntary groundwater easement program at the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) within the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDu2szG0UzImqjFvrM69sG4_Hkqwr3kU_jHVH0LGFOMMcJK4DXRClBK1iaeUFscStvYHuI10M8GRyWn9X2YBFrMZ0t3jbaiv5dgxlDbdk685ht5drpxVvKW0gYXUeufblsAs3U96Za5F8zNUaA_mctIGHWjSRzbKdYo1UPdIADE6LmQrP1Gi8GQSQ==&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">Agricultural Conservation Easements Program.</a>

"Declining groundwater supply is a growing concern for our rural communities. As farmers and ranchers across Kansas continue to face historic drought, it's more important than ever that we work to conserve our state's water supply for generations to come," said LaTurner.

"I'm proud to partner with Rep. Caraveo to introduce the Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act to provide agriculture producers with the resources they need to help reduce groundwater use, conserve our natural resources, and keep their land in production."

“We in the West understand just how precious a resource our water is. That’s especially true in many rural communities, which rely on groundwater as their primary source of drinking water, and as irrigation supply for farmers and ranchers,” said&nbsp; Caraveo.

America’s groundwater resources are a primary source of drinking water for rural communities and a vital irrigation water supply for many family farms and ranches across the country. However, these resources are in decline — a trend that could seriously affect communities, water users, ecosystem health and local economies.

The&nbsp;Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act&nbsp;would:&nbsp;

U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.)&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDu0kKB4lTDaUo5BD8fuZ93PoVBqu0uVnjVmqBWYucyVRS9zh8cAbvROD5E_KHl6tAuYz0SHAv281zpFK6ndOwUC_itRIC5KsJYbDrh6jn5n3sWyFB7rhCxNTXpmJR6sART3oKEFZfsgN6fdL5UgvUaoKcxctG9TG4TIlLfq0AEkT8V68-BWEuOD8NyHHRhayH6&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">introduced</a>&nbsp;the&nbsp;Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act&nbsp;in the Senate&nbsp;earlier this month.

Full text of the bill is available&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDux8Q-D5Gd5wjqYJZiAqEtUjNQ7rR7XWe20_7I-eCVYL9VohtkhgJDmjU8TxNN-hhOSX7CkKNDVfGdW8C9TSoNxSqftcfEuv6dUjuQ_Dm8NlkJGhj9CadLSqpJ1-47loSIjIwVZnwnOb3F4KuaIYWUWkfJUr5CgIxmzv3ix6Y12JRG4lmBE_kRDnpKnnzo0aBxeyVBsXfpfkWm-N0ARx-0RyVSO36JIG_kOrHEDgkGN5lX4Crw68IIaQ==&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684858055085.jpeg" alt="U.S. Rep. Jake LaTurner, R-KS, 2nd District" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Rep. Jake LaTurner, R-KS, 2nd District</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Rep. LaTurnerWASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– Reps. Jake LaTurner (R-KS) and Yadira Caraveo, M.D. (D-CO) introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDux8Q-D5Gd5wjqYJZiAqEtUjNQ7rR7XWe20_7I-eCVYL9VohtkhgJDmjU8TxNN-hhOSX7CkKNDVfGdW8C9TSoNxSqftcfEuv6dUjuQ_Dm8NlkJGhj9CadLSqpJ1-47loSIjIwVZnwnOb3F4KuaIYWUWkfJUr5CgIxmzv3ix6Y12JRG4lmBE_kRDnpKnnzo0aBxeyVBsXfpfkWm-N0ARx-0RyVSO36JIG_kOrHEDgkGN5lX4Crw68IIaQ==&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">a bipartisan bill</a>&nbsp;Thursday that will help&nbsp;family farmers and ranchers fight drought. The&nbsp;Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act&nbsp;gives farmers and ranchers the flexibility they need to protect groundwater sources while also keeping their agricultural lands in production under a new voluntary groundwater easement program at the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) within the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDu2szG0UzImqjFvrM69sG4_Hkqwr3kU_jHVH0LGFOMMcJK4DXRClBK1iaeUFscStvYHuI10M8GRyWn9X2YBFrMZ0t3jbaiv5dgxlDbdk685ht5drpxVvKW0gYXUeufblsAs3U96Za5F8zNUaA_mctIGHWjSRzbKdYo1UPdIADE6LmQrP1Gi8GQSQ==&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">Agricultural Conservation Easements Program.</a> "Declining groundwater supply is a growing concern for our rural communities. As farmers and ranchers across Kansas continue to face historic drought, it's more important than ever that we work to conserve our state's water supply for generations to come," said LaTurner."I'm proud to partner with Rep. Caraveo to introduce the Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act to provide agriculture producers with the resources they need to help reduce groundwater use, conserve our natural resources, and keep their land in production."“We in the West understand just how precious a resource our water is. That’s especially true in many rural communities, which rely on groundwater as their primary source of drinking water, and as irrigation supply for farmers and ranchers,” said&nbsp; Caraveo.America’s groundwater resources are a primary source of drinking water for rural communities and a vital irrigation water supply for many family farms and ranches across the country. However, these resources are in decline — a trend that could seriously affect communities, water users, ecosystem health and local economies.The&nbsp;Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act&nbsp;would:&nbsp; <ol>
 <li>Create a new Groundwater Conservation Easement Program at USDA to encourage voluntary, compensated reductions in groundwater consumption on agricultural land and advance local, regional, or state groundwater management goals;</li><li>Allow NRCS to reimburse transaction costs up to 5 percent of the federal share and requires an advance payment for limited resource producers to cover these costs;</li><li>Guarantee long-term management flexibility for a producer to continue farming and choose how they reduce their water use, as long as they conserve the amount they’ve committed to reducing each year;</li><li>Ensure that farmers are fairly compensated using a payment based on the market value for the water right instead of a per acre payment; and</li><li>Clarify that easement funds shall not be counted towards a farm’s adjusted gross income and that producers with an adjusted gross income of more than $900,000 are eligible for a waiver from the Secretary to participate in groundwater conservation easements.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.)&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDu0kKB4lTDaUo5BD8fuZ93PoVBqu0uVnjVmqBWYucyVRS9zh8cAbvROD5E_KHl6tAuYz0SHAv281zpFK6ndOwUC_itRIC5KsJYbDrh6jn5n3sWyFB7rhCxNTXpmJR6sART3oKEFZfsgN6fdL5UgvUaoKcxctG9TG4TIlLfq0AEkT8V68-BWEuOD8NyHHRhayH6&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">introduced</a>&nbsp;the&nbsp;Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act&nbsp;in the Senate&nbsp;earlier this month. Full text of the bill is available&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDux8Q-D5Gd5wjqYJZiAqEtUjNQ7rR7XWe20_7I-eCVYL9VohtkhgJDmjU8TxNN-hhOSX7CkKNDVfGdW8C9TSoNxSqftcfEuv6dUjuQ_Dm8NlkJGhj9CadLSqpJ1-47loSIjIwVZnwnOb3F4KuaIYWUWkfJUr5CgIxmzv3ix6Y12JRG4lmBE_kRDnpKnnzo0aBxeyVBsXfpfkWm-N0ARx-0RyVSO36JIG_kOrHEDgkGN5lX4Crw68IIaQ==&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

Rep. LaTurner intros bill to help farmers, ranchers combat drought

The Hays Striders finished their final week of training for the 2023 AAU Junior Olympic Games now underway through August 5 at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.

Seventeen of the 132 athletes who make up the Striders team qualified to move on to the national meet by competing in the Missouri Valley District and Region 16 qualifiers in Hays and Yukon, Oklahoma respectively. An athlete qualifies for the Junior Olympics by finishing in the top six at the regional meet. 

Coming out of the meet in Yukon, Oklahoma, the Striders had five regional champions all earning gold medals, with two athletes earning&nbsp; regional champion in three events at the Oklahoma meet.

Riley Leiker powered her way to gold in three events in the 8-Under Girls Division by taking first in the 400-m dash (1:14.21), 800-m run (2:54.05) and shot put (21’7.50”).

Emery Zimmerman continued his dominance in the 11-year-old Boys Division by earning gold in the 800-meter run (2:28.31), the 1500 (4:59.51), and 3000-meter run (10:46.63). He also qualified in the pentathlon (3rd, 1786 points).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690814007629.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays Striders finished their final week of training for the 2023 AAU Junior Olympic Games now underway through August 5 at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.Seventeen of the 132 athletes who make up the Striders team qualified to move on to the national meet by competing in the Missouri Valley District and Region 16 qualifiers in Hays and Yukon, Oklahoma respectively. An athlete qualifies for the Junior Olympics by finishing in the top six at the regional meet. Coming out of the meet in Yukon, Oklahoma, the Striders had five regional champions all earning gold medals, with two athletes earning&nbsp; regional champion in three events at the Oklahoma meet.Riley Leiker powered her way to gold in three events in the 8-Under Girls Division by taking first in the 400-m dash (1:14.21), 800-m run (2:54.05) and shot put (21’7.50”).Emery Zimmerman continued his dominance in the 11-year-old Boys Division by earning gold in the 800-meter run (2:28.31), the 1500 (4:59.51), and 3000-meter run (10:46.63). He also qualified in the pentathlon (3rd, 1786 points).Other regional champions included Tayte Lewallen, providing an amazing run in the 11-year-old Boys Division 80-meter hurdles to take the gold (14.72) and also qualified in the 800-meter run (3rd, 2:38.03) and pentathlon (2nd, 1865 points). Kane Staab tossed his way to gold in the discus in the 11-year-old Boys Division (62’05”) and also qualified in the shot put (2nd, 31’2”). Lyndi Zimmerman took Regional Champion gold in the shot put (38’3”), and pentathlon (2883). Zimmerman also qualified in the 200-meter dash (3rd, 25.35) 100-meter hurdles (2nd, 15.73) and 200-meter hurdles (3rd, 30.58).“These athletes work hard, day in and day out, rain or shine, cold weather or hot; and are all champions. From the regional winners, the Junior Olympic qualifiers, down to the athlete who comes to our team to try it out for just a couple of months, we try to train them all to improve every day,” Head Coach Dave Haberman said.&nbsp;Other qualifiers, along with their regional finishes and performances, include multi-sport athlete Kersee Wince, 8-Under Girls, shot put (6th, 12’2”);&nbsp; Plainville talent Jovie Staab, 8-Under Girls turbo javelin (4th, 32’1”); La Crosse powerhouse Danica Vap, 12-Girls, shot put (3rd, 31’6.75”) and discus (2nd, 86’1”); another Plainville talent, Hayden Staab 12-Girls shot put (2nd, 32’0.25”) and discus (3rd, 79’); gifted incoming Hays Middle School athlete Sydney Lewallen, 13-Girls, 400-meter dash (6th, 1:03.36) and 800-meter run (4th, 2:30.87); and incoming Hays High freshman force Makayla Lewallen, 14-Girls, pentathlon (2nd, 2309 points) and high jump (3rd, 4’8”).Zippy Finley Zimmerman, 8-Under Boys qualified in the 1500-meter run with a fifth place finish at 6:38.82. Strongman Jacob Leiker qualified in the shot put (5th, 31’10.25”) and discus (5th, 73’02). Kobe Schmidt ran a season best in the 12-Boys 400-meter dash, finishing 6th (1:02.28); and teammate Robbie Readle ran the best race of his season to win his heat in the 400 at 1:15.12, also in the 12-Boys Division.Logan Leiker, another incoming freshman and future star at Hays High School, qualified in the 14-Boys 3000-meter run by running 10:46.63, taking sixth.&nbsp;Multi-talented runner Brayden Staley, 15-16 Boys, qualified in the 2000-meter steeplechase running 7:41.91.&nbsp;Hays High football and track athlete Kamani Jones, who took sixth at the KSHSAA State meet in the Class 5A triple jump this past season, qualified in the rriple jump for the Junior Olympics (3rd, 41’11”) and high jump (5th, 5’10”).Haberman said he would put these kids up against any in the nation and would be very confident they would be competitive. “Several of our Striders are ranked in the top 10 in the nation coming into the Junior Olympics," he said.Some of the events will have over 100 athletes from across the country competing. “We have never seen this many Striders in the Top 10!” Haberman exclaimed. “Their work ethic is top shelf and we’re excited to see them compete against the best in the nation.”Haberman is referring to Lyndi Zimmerman who has the top seed in the pentathlon. Riley Leiker, Hayden Staab, Danica Vap, Emery Zimmerman, Tayte Lewallen, and Kane Staab are the Striders with the Top 10 incoming times or distances.“We also have about a dozen first-class coaches for our Strider athletes,” Haberman added. “Elaine Haberman (sprints, long and triple jump), Hunter Hearne (throws), Hannah Wince (high jump and hurdles), and Brooklyn Lewallen (hurdles) take the bulk of the duties; while Fort Hays State University athletes Abby Rueschhoff, Meredith Lewallen, Lynn Leiker, Jennifer Werth, Traci Vap, Mike Smith, and TJ Staab contribute substantially&nbsp; to Strider performance success.”&nbsp;Of the 58 Striders who qualified from the district meet in Hays, there were 22 who competed in the regional qualifier in Yukon, Oklahoma. The region is made up of AAU teams in Kansas, Oklahoma, eastern Missouri, and northwest Arkansas. It is considered one of the hardest qualifying meets in the nation to qualify from to compete in the National meet.&nbsp;Other notable performances from the regional meet include newcomer Channing Leiker, 15-16 Boys, 110-meter high hurdles (12th, 20.98) and 400-meter Hurdles (9th, 1:11.24); Hays High jumper Kaliyah Bannister 15-16 Girls long jump (9th, 15’9”); Russell’s Aubrey Briney 15-16 Girls long jump (13th, 14’7.50”) high jump (10th, 4’6”) and triple jump (8th, 31’9”); Kyla Schmidt, coming off of an injury, 15-16 Girls, long jump (24th, 12’2.50) and triple jump (7th, 31’11”); and the Strider throwing stalwart Caleb Englert, 15-16 discus, (12th, 91’2.75” and shot put (13th, 32’4”).&nbsp;

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