Area residents will soon have another option for their auto
parts and accessories with the planned opening of an AutoZone location in Hays.

The store has signed an agreement with Big Creek Crossing to
lease an outbuilding that had been the home of the Habitat for Humanity of
Ellis County ReStore for several years. Previously, the building was the long-time
location for G&amp;L Tire, now at 201 E. Eighth.

The building originally was a part of the shopping center’s JCPenney
location, said Big Creek Crossing property manager James Younger.

He said AutoZone will control the entire outbuilding and be responsible
for renovation, but the shopping center will retain ownership.

“Their plan is to remodel the
building,” Younger said. 

That remodel will include
interior and exterior work, including the removal of the canopy and a redesigned
parking area.

Younger said he expected
work to begin in the next 30 to 60 days. 

“There have been engineers and
architects, things of that nature, that have already been showing up over there,
kind of poking around the building,” he said. “So, we imagine that we'll see
something pretty quick.”

Younger also said he expected
an opening in late 2023 or early 2024.

Big Creek Crossing marketing manager Branson Hoffman said he thinks the addition of AutoZone will help diversify the center’s shopping experience.

While
there are already several similar automotive stores in Hays, Younger said AutoZone will complement those locations with a more regional focus.

“AutoZone has their own logistical
things that they run that they look at. They find Hays to be a very viable
location,” Younger said. “A lot of people don't know that these parts
stores are in town. They are just looking at Hays on a consumer level.”

“On a commercial side of
things where you're supplying independent auto shops here, they can supply
obviously shops over in Ellis. They can supply shops in Victoria, down to even
like Schoenchen, the La Crosse area and on up into Plainville. So, when these
auto parts stores come in here, they're obviously thinking about more of like a
regional reach.”

As shopping trends change, Big
Creek Crossing has worked to embrace those desires of shoppers, morphing the
building to include more exterior store entrances rather than ones inside the main
corridors.

Adapting the building has allowed
the center to utilize more space.

“By total (gross
leasable area), I think we're definitely going to be up towards like 90ish
percent,” Younger said. “We're definitely up there.”

More changes to the facility are
planned in the coming years.

“Priority No. 1 in our company is to lease space,” Younger said. “Looking forward
to where we're going to go from here, there are going to be major changes
that will come along.”

“This is genuinely what tenants want, and this is what we're doing to make it happen.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693592962319.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostArea residents will soon have another option for their auto
parts and accessories with the planned opening of an AutoZone location in Hays.The store has signed an agreement with Big Creek Crossing to
lease an outbuilding that had been the home of the Habitat for Humanity of
Ellis County ReStore for several years. Previously, the building was the long-time
location for G&amp;L Tire, now at 201 E. Eighth.The building originally was a part of the shopping center’s JCPenney
location, said Big Creek Crossing property manager James Younger.He said AutoZone will control the entire outbuilding and be responsible
for renovation, but the shopping center will retain ownership.“Their plan is to remodel the
building,” Younger said. That remodel will include
interior and exterior work, including the removal of the canopy and a redesigned
parking area.Younger said he expected
work to begin in the next 30 to 60 days. “There have been engineers and
architects, things of that nature, that have already been showing up over there,
kind of poking around the building,” he said. “So, we imagine that we'll see
something pretty quick.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693593037402.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Younger also said he expected
an opening in late 2023 or early 2024.Big Creek Crossing marketing manager Branson Hoffman said he thinks the addition of AutoZone will help diversify the center’s shopping experience.“We're
excited about that,” he said.While
there are already several similar automotive stores in Hays, Younger said AutoZone will complement those locations with a more regional focus.“AutoZone has their own logistical
things that they run that they look at. They find Hays to be a very viable
location,” Younger said. “A lot of people don't know that these parts
stores are in town. They are just looking at Hays on a consumer level.”“On a commercial side of
things where you're supplying independent auto shops here, they can supply
obviously shops over in Ellis. They can supply shops in Victoria, down to even
like Schoenchen, the La Crosse area and on up into Plainville. So, when these
auto parts stores come in here, they're obviously thinking about more of like a
regional reach.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693593001567.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>A mall reimagined</h2>As shopping trends change, Big
Creek Crossing has worked to embrace those desires of shoppers, morphing the
building to include more exterior store entrances rather than ones inside the main
corridors.Adapting the building has allowed
the center to utilize more space.“By total (gross
leasable area), I think we're definitely going to be up towards like 90ish
percent,” Younger said. “We're definitely up there.”More changes to the facility are
planned in the coming years.“Priority No. 1 in our company is to lease space,” Younger said. “Looking forward
to where we're going to go from here, there are going to be major changes
that will come along.”“This is genuinely what tenants want, and this is what we're doing to make it happen.”

AutoZone coming to Hays

DODGE CITY&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed today announced that 35 local and off-system bridge projects across the state will receive a combined total of $42.3 million as part of two local bridge improvement programs that capitalize on new revenue from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

Combined with matching funds from the awarded cities and counties, the total project value is nearly $48.8 million. By reshaping the local bridge programs to take advantage of BIL, the Kansas Department of Transportation more than doubled its annual funding as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).

“A stronger transportation system and safer bridges keep our communities and economy moving,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“There are more than 19,000 bridges on local road systems across Kansas, all of which are essential to getting people and goods where they need to go. Yet almost 5,000 of those bridges simply cannot meet our state’s needs in a modern world, which is why these investments are critical for making our state a better place to live and work.”

The project announcements took place in Dodge City to highlight the largest local bridge grant being awarded: &nbsp;$7 million for the construction of a new northbound bridge on 14th Avenue over the Arkansas River. Dodge City is matching $2 million toward the $9 million total cost of the new bridge.

In addition to Governor Kelly and Secretary Reed, Dodge City Mayor Michael Burns and Representative Shannon Francis, Liberal, Chair of the House Transportation Committee, participated in the announcement.

“We welcome opportunities to partner with Kansas cities and counties to replace or rehabilitate deteriorating bridges,” said&nbsp;Secretary Reed. “The needs are high, and these programs allow KDOT to assist communities move projects forward that support the transportation needs of Kansans.”

The Kansas Department of Transportation’s Off-System Bridge program (OSB) is awarding $20.5 million in Fiscal Year 2025 funds to 20 projects across the state. The Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) is awarding $21.8 million in Fiscal Year 2024 KDOT funds to 15 projects, with 16 deficient bridges to be replaced and an additional 12 to be permanently removed from local systems.

The OSB and KLBIP are targeted for city and county bridges not on the state highway system and in need of replacement or repair. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that include bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.

For this cycle of the local bridge programs, KDOT received a combined total of 176 applications requesting $162.4 million.

A link to a map showing the projects can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyMy8wOC9Db21iaW5lZC0yNC1LTEJJUC0yNS1PU0ItbWFwLTA3MTMyMy5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODMxLjgxOTI2ODUxIn0.-X10Mb-fTCzFpLE8NiHYlzCfdEK0cEDIsY3_ihaZNUo/s/2573268917/br/225120928788-l">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693600478969.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>DODGE CITY&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed today announced that 35 local and off-system bridge projects across the state will receive a combined total of $42.3 million as part of two local bridge improvement programs that capitalize on new revenue from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).Combined with matching funds from the awarded cities and counties, the total project value is nearly $48.8 million. By reshaping the local bridge programs to take advantage of BIL, the Kansas Department of Transportation more than doubled its annual funding as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).“A stronger transportation system and safer bridges keep our communities and economy moving,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“There are more than 19,000 bridges on local road systems across Kansas, all of which are essential to getting people and goods where they need to go. Yet almost 5,000 of those bridges simply cannot meet our state’s needs in a modern world, which is why these investments are critical for making our state a better place to live and work.”The project announcements took place in Dodge City to highlight the largest local bridge grant being awarded: &nbsp;$7 million for the construction of a new northbound bridge on 14th Avenue over the Arkansas River. Dodge City is matching $2 million toward the $9 million total cost of the new bridge.In addition to Governor Kelly and Secretary Reed, Dodge City Mayor Michael Burns and Representative Shannon Francis, Liberal, Chair of the House Transportation Committee, participated in the announcement.“We welcome opportunities to partner with Kansas cities and counties to replace or rehabilitate deteriorating bridges,” said&nbsp;Secretary Reed. “The needs are high, and these programs allow KDOT to assist communities move projects forward that support the transportation needs of Kansans.”The Kansas Department of Transportation’s Off-System Bridge program (OSB) is awarding $20.5 million in Fiscal Year 2025 funds to 20 projects across the state. The Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) is awarding $21.8 million in Fiscal Year 2024 KDOT funds to 15 projects, with 16 deficient bridges to be replaced and an additional 12 to be permanently removed from local systems.The OSB and KLBIP are targeted for city and county bridges not on the state highway system and in need of replacement or repair. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that include bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.For this cycle of the local bridge programs, KDOT received a combined total of 176 applications requesting $162.4 million.A link to a map showing the projects can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyMy8wOC9Db21iaW5lZC0yNC1LTEJJUC0yNS1PU0ItbWFwLTA3MTMyMy5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODMxLjgxOTI2ODUxIn0.-X10Mb-fTCzFpLE8NiHYlzCfdEK0cEDIsY3_ihaZNUo/s/2573268917/br/225120928788-l">here</a>.

Governor Kelly announces 35 local bridge projects across Kansas to receive $42.3M

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

LA CROSSE — <a href="https://www.midlandmarketing.org/">Midland Marketing</a> broke ground on Friday for two new grain storage bins west of its current facility at 1015 Oak in LaCrosse.

The facility has bunker storage, but the new $6 million facility will include two 250,000-bushel grain bins and inbound and outbound scales.

Midland Marketing officials had hoped to have the new bins open by wheat harvest this summer, but supply issues with transformers and motors might delay the opening until the fall harvest.

The current LaCrosse facility has bunkers. Those will remain. The new bins will increase capacity at the site and should allow for faster grain unloading. The bins also will be able to better preserve the grain compared to the bunkers.

The current retail facility will remain open. Midland will not be hiring any new staff for the expanded facility.

Midland Marketing hopes to eventually connect with the nearby railroad track for rail transport of grain.

Midland Marketing serves almost 1,000 member-owners and more than 4,100 customers. With a combined storage capacity of almost 12.6 million bushels, it has elevators in Hays, Brownell, Hargrave, La Crosse, McCracken, Natoma, Palco, Plainville, Toulon, Yocemento and Zurich to meet the needs of area producers.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693592342131.jpeg" alt="Midland Marketing officials break ground Friday on the construction of two new 250,000 bushel grain bins in LaCrosse. Pictures from left are board members Adam Brobst, Tom Benoit, Kelly Muir, John Irvin, John Grabbe, Les Rogers, Brian Staab, Ryan Griffin and Mike Stull. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Midland Marketing officials break ground Friday on the construction of two new 250,000 bushel grain bins in LaCrosse. Pictures from left are board members Adam Brobst, Tom Benoit, Kelly Muir, John Irvin, John Grabbe, Les Rogers, Brian Staab, Ryan Griffin and Mike Stull. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostLA CROSSE — <a href="https://www.midlandmarketing.org/">Midland Marketing</a> broke ground on Friday for two new grain storage bins west of its current facility at 1015 Oak in LaCrosse.The facility has bunker storage, but the new $6 million facility will include two 250,000-bushel grain bins and inbound and outbound scales.Midland Marketing officials had hoped to have the new bins open by wheat harvest this summer, but supply issues with transformers and motors might delay the opening until the fall harvest.The current LaCrosse facility has bunkers. Those will remain. The new bins will increase capacity at the site and should allow for faster grain unloading. The bins also will be able to better preserve the grain compared to the bunkers.The current retail facility will remain open. Midland will not be hiring any new staff for the expanded facility.Midland Marketing hopes to eventually connect with the nearby railroad track for rail transport of grain.Midland Marketing serves almost 1,000 member-owners and more than 4,100 customers. With a combined storage capacity of almost 12.6 million bushels, it has elevators in Hays, Brownell, Hargrave, La Crosse, McCracken, Natoma, Palco, Plainville, Toulon, Yocemento and Zurich to meet the needs of area producers.&nbsp;

Midland Marketing breaks ground on new grain storage facility

With the recent opening of Blooming Prairie Healing Arts in
downtown Hays, residents now have access to alternative massage services.

“I do offer the therapeutic, the classic therapeutic
massage, Swedish massage, but I also do an ayurvedic head massage,” said owner
Anne Bryant. 

But her main pursuit is vibroacoustic therapy.

“I'm a lover of music,” Bryant said. “So, I wanted to blend
my love of music with massage therapy.”

“Vibroacoustic therapy is the combination of sound
frequencies being delivered directly to the body through transducers that are
embedded in massage furniture, such as a massage table," she said.

“There's no shortage of massage therapists here in town,”
Bryant said. “So, I knew that it would be an awesome opportunity for me to
specialize in a niche and really combine my love for the healing mental and
physical aspects of music with massage therapy.”

After graduating from Fort Hays State University in May, she
said she worked at another location downtown, but she desired to own her own
business. This summer, everything lined up to make that passion a reality.

“One thing led to the next…it all just kind of lined up for
me,” Bryant said. “It all just happened pretty quickly, but I'm really glad it
did because I have had so much fun doing the things that I want to do and
exploring other worlds like (vibroacoustic therapy) and ayurveda. It's been
really fun. I enjoy owning my own business and being my own boss.”

The location opened Aug. 21, and she said feedback so far
has been good.

“My first week, I had about 10 clients. The goal is 12 to 15
per week,” Bryant said. “It's been a slow build, but some people have
followed me over here, and for that, I'm extremely grateful. I think it's just
going to be a matter of time.”

She said as the service is new to Hays and as word spreads, she
is excited to be a “pioneer in that area” and become another draw for downtown.

Being a part of the downtown community is important to Bryant, and she plans to be a regular fixture in community events.

“I picked downtown because I knew that this is where some
more of the smaller businesses, where creativity is supported down here more so
than anywhere in town,” Bryant said. “And I knew I wanted to see an older part
of town supported with or supported by similar businesses.”

Blooming Prairie Healing Arts can be found in the basement suite
of 1111 Main.

While the location suits her needs for now, Bryant hopes to
expand in the future.

I am “very grateful for this space,” she said. “It's
wonderful for a startup. It's nice and cool, and it's cozy. The vibe is great.”

“But I do foresee myself in the future, maybe in a bigger
space with windows and natural light. Maybe hiring a few more therapists who
have the same vision as myself.”

She also hopes to expand awareness of alternative therapies.

“It's a great complementary medicine to Western conventional
medicine,” Bryant said, “and I would love to see some more awareness around
that.”

She said it's one of those things that once you try it, you
love it.

“If you've ever been sat front row at a concert or a music
show and you feel that reverberation through your body, it's essentially giving
you a massage from the inside out,” Bryant said. “It's a wonderful additive to
traditional massage therapy. You're not only getting a massage on the
outside but also from within.”

For more information about Blooming Prairie Healing Arts or
to book an appointment, visit <a href="https://www.bloomingprairiehealingarts.com/">bloomingprairiehealingarts.com.</a>

The business can also be found on <a href="http://facebook.com/bloomingprairiehealingarts">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://instagram.com/bloomingprairiehealingarts.com">Instagram.</a>

“I'm just really excited to join the community and expand
the world of massage therapy,” Bryant said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693596142339.jpeg" alt="Blooming Prairie Healing Arts owner Anne Bryant. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Blooming Prairie Healing Arts owner Anne Bryant. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostWith the recent opening of Blooming Prairie Healing Arts in
downtown Hays, residents now have access to alternative massage services.“I do offer the therapeutic, the classic therapeutic
massage, Swedish massage, but I also do an ayurvedic head massage,” said owner
Anne Bryant. But her main pursuit is vibroacoustic therapy.“I'm a lover of music,” Bryant said. “So, I wanted to blend
my love of music with massage therapy.”“Vibroacoustic therapy is the combination of sound
frequencies being delivered directly to the body through transducers that are
embedded in massage furniture, such as a massage table," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693596222377.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>“There's no shortage of massage therapists here in town,”
Bryant said. “So, I knew that it would be an awesome opportunity for me to
specialize in a niche and really combine my love for the healing mental and
physical aspects of music with massage therapy.”After graduating from Fort Hays State University in May, she
said she worked at another location downtown, but she desired to own her own
business. This summer, everything lined up to make that passion a reality.“One thing led to the next…it all just kind of lined up for
me,” Bryant said. “It all just happened pretty quickly, but I'm really glad it
did because I have had so much fun doing the things that I want to do and
exploring other worlds like (vibroacoustic therapy) and ayurveda. It's been
really fun. I enjoy owning my own business and being my own boss.”The location opened Aug. 21, and she said feedback so far
has been good.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693596264184.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“My first week, I had about 10 clients. The goal is 12 to 15
per week,” Bryant said. “It's been a slow build, but some people have
followed me over here, and for that, I'm extremely grateful. I think it's just
going to be a matter of time.”She said as the service is new to Hays and as word spreads, she
is excited to be a “pioneer in that area” and become another draw for downtown.Being a part of the downtown community is important to Bryant, and she plans to be a regular fixture in community events.“I picked downtown because I knew that this is where some
more of the smaller businesses, where creativity is supported down here more so
than anywhere in town,” Bryant said. “And I knew I wanted to see an older part
of town supported with or supported by similar businesses.”Blooming Prairie Healing Arts can be found in the basement suite
of 1111 Main.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693596315015.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>While the location suits her needs for now, Bryant hopes to
expand in the future.I am “very grateful for this space,” she said. “It's
wonderful for a startup. It's nice and cool, and it's cozy. The vibe is great.”“But I do foresee myself in the future, maybe in a bigger
space with windows and natural light. Maybe hiring a few more therapists who
have the same vision as myself.”She also hopes to expand awareness of alternative therapies.“It's a great complementary medicine to Western conventional
medicine,” Bryant said, “and I would love to see some more awareness around
that.”She said it's one of those things that once you try it, you
love it.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693596281836.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“If you've ever been sat front row at a concert or a music
show and you feel that reverberation through your body, it's essentially giving
you a massage from the inside out,” Bryant said. “It's a wonderful additive to
traditional massage therapy. You're not only getting a massage on the
outside but also from within.”For more information about Blooming Prairie Healing Arts or
to book an appointment, visit <a href="https://www.bloomingprairiehealingarts.com/">bloomingprairiehealingarts.com.</a>The business can also be found on <a href="http://facebook.com/bloomingprairiehealingarts">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://instagram.com/bloomingprairiehealingarts.com">Instagram.</a>“I'm just really excited to join the community and expand
the world of massage therapy,” Bryant said.

Blooming Prairie Healing Arts brings sound therapy, massage services to downtown Hays

Sternberg Museum of Natural History

Sternberg Museum of Natural History invites residents to a galaxy far, far away when it hosts Star Wars Day on Saturday, Sept. 9.

The event, which will take place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., will feature members of two costume groups from Kansas City and Wichita dressed as Star Wars characters.

According to Ian Trevethan, Sternberg education outreach director, the different costume characters will be located throughout the museum along with museum employees who will be on hand to discuss some of the educational aspects planned for the day.

“I like to talk about the zoology of the creatures from Star Wars, but also focus on a bit of geology like planetary geology,” he said. “Different volunteers will be set-up at stations to talk about the fictional animals seen in the movies and compare them to those that actually existed many years ago. For example, the mammoth we have on display was an ice age animal, and I would compare it to the fictional Taunton that I built and discuss how these animals adapted to colder weather.”

Other activities include a kids’ costume contest, as well as a photo booth at which at which visitors will have the opportunity to have their photos taken with their favorite Star War characters. There will also be kid-friendly activities offered as well as unique props and displays.

“For example, I bring in my 1970 and 80s spaceship collection and put it on display, and we have fun decorations throughout the museum,” Trevethan said.

Trevethan said it’s been several years since the last Star Wars event.

“It was the year before COVID, and at that point, it had become a really big deal,” Trevethan said. “I think we had about 500 people that day. Usually on average, when we do a Star Wars, we get pretty good numbers, so we'll see what we get this year.

“Overall, the idea to get people through the door of the museum and give them an opportunity to have a really fun, outside of the box experience that they wouldn't normally have,” he added. “I don't want to totally throw out the education and science part, but I do want to encourage people to just let go and have a good time. Hopefully, we can unlock people’s imagination, which is important when it comes to critically examining the world around us. We just want people to have a unique experience, have some fun and perhaps learn a few things along the way.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693420746070.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Sternberg Museum of Natural HistorySternberg Museum of Natural History invites residents to a galaxy far, far away when it hosts Star Wars Day on Saturday, Sept. 9.The event, which will take place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., will feature members of two costume groups from Kansas City and Wichita dressed as Star Wars characters.According to Ian Trevethan, Sternberg education outreach director, the different costume characters will be located throughout the museum along with museum employees who will be on hand to discuss some of the educational aspects planned for the day.“I like to talk about the zoology of the creatures from Star Wars, but also focus on a bit of geology like planetary geology,” he said. “Different volunteers will be set-up at stations to talk about the fictional animals seen in the movies and compare them to those that actually existed many years ago. For example, the mammoth we have on display was an ice age animal, and I would compare it to the fictional Taunton that I built and discuss how these animals adapted to colder weather.”Other activities include a kids’ costume contest, as well as a photo booth at which at which visitors will have the opportunity to have their photos taken with their favorite Star War characters. There will also be kid-friendly activities offered as well as unique props and displays.“For example, I bring in my 1970 and 80s spaceship collection and put it on display, and we have fun decorations throughout the museum,” Trevethan said.Trevethan said it’s been several years since the last Star Wars event.“It was the year before COVID, and at that point, it had become a really big deal,” Trevethan said. “I think we had about 500 people that day. Usually on average, when we do a Star Wars, we get pretty good numbers, so we'll see what we get this year.“Overall, the idea to get people through the door of the museum and give them an opportunity to have a really fun, outside of the box experience that they wouldn't normally have,” he added. “I don't want to totally throw out the education and science part, but I do want to encourage people to just let go and have a good time. Hopefully, we can unlock people’s imagination, which is important when it comes to critically examining the world around us. We just want people to have a unique experience, have some fun and perhaps learn a few things along the way.”

Sternberg Museum to host Star Wars Day on Sept. 9

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693597725588.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

The Fort Hays State University Science Café will present “Eclipses: the How, Why, and Where of these Events” at 7 p.m. Sept. 25 at The Venue, 2704 Vine, in Hays.

Come and learn about the eclipses over North America.&nbsp; All you need to know about the two upcoming solar eclipses and how to safely view them.

Presenters will be Dean Stramel, adjunct professor in chemistry at FHSU and Dr. Kendall Krug of Hays.

The series is ssponsored by Science and Mathematics Education Institute.

The event is free and open to the public.

<a href="https://url.emailprotection.link/?bou-xR3N3e7X8yDRd3kbDkA1fTZdPFExe8YAv4dL0AiGXygwsRwEY72nNkXn5qO-IptehGhOefzEf-ecfox2EEg~~" target="_blank">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a> <a href="https://url.emailprotection.link/?btlGrbuiMcSRUy-9lFiXOlhzRlH9o0Xzz94G9x2ErDUUOWD_dMhqXivdUOOmcrJpSXC1iSaMtx9WmkI47VVoY4bLCpmwj5z5Y_aVnsIHsHWwZRap0ExekDMLDlhhVFiMQ" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a> <a href="http://www.x.com/FHSUScienceCafe" target="_blank">www.x.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

SubmittedThe Fort Hays State University Science Café will present “Eclipses: the How, Why, and Where of these Events” at 7 p.m. Sept. 25 at The Venue, 2704 Vine, in Hays.Come and learn about the eclipses over North America.&nbsp; All you need to know about the two upcoming solar eclipses and how to safely view them.Presenters will be Dean Stramel, adjunct professor in chemistry at FHSU and Dr. Kendall Krug of Hays.The series is ssponsored by Science and Mathematics Education Institute.The event is free and open to the public.<a href="https://url.emailprotection.link/?bou-xR3N3e7X8yDRd3kbDkA1fTZdPFExe8YAv4dL0AiGXygwsRwEY72nNkXn5qO-IptehGhOefzEf-ecfox2EEg~~" target="_blank">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a> <a href="https://url.emailprotection.link/?btlGrbuiMcSRUy-9lFiXOlhzRlH9o0Xzz94G9x2ErDUUOWD_dMhqXivdUOOmcrJpSXC1iSaMtx9WmkI47VVoY4bLCpmwj5z5Y_aVnsIHsHWwZRap0ExekDMLDlhhVFiMQ" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a> <a href="http://www.x.com/FHSUScienceCafe" target="_blank">www.x.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

FHSU Science Cafe to discuss eclipses

Ellis County Historical Society in Hays will host
“Kansas Music History,” a presentation and discussion by Derrick Doty at 7 p.m. Sept. 14 at 100 W. Seventh in downtown Hays.

Members of the
community are invited to attend the free program. Contact the Ellis County
Historical Society at 785-628-2624 for more information. The program is made
possible by Humanities Kansas.

Refreshments will be provided, and all ages are welcome to
join the society in its newly remodeled basement commons area of the red brick building
on Main Street museum campus.

What is it like to be a musician from Kansas and what can
their music tell us about time and place? Using music and storytelling, this
presentation explores informal music traditions, styles and musicians from
Territorial Kansas up through the age of the radio and concludes with a
demonstration of various instruments and music from early 19th and 20th century
Kansas.

Doty is a music historian and works at the
Riley County Historical Society in Manhattan, Kan. He has taught music lessons for more than 20 years, specializing in piano, guitar, fiddle and mandolin. He plays the fiddle in Tallgrass Express String Band, a folk group based
in the Flint Hills, which plays original songs about the region.

SubmittedEllis County Historical Society in Hays will host
“Kansas Music History,” a presentation and discussion by Derrick Doty at 7 p.m. Sept. 14 at 100 W. Seventh in downtown Hays.Members of the
community are invited to attend the free program. Contact the Ellis County
Historical Society at 785-628-2624 for more information. The program is made
possible by Humanities Kansas.Refreshments will be provided, and all ages are welcome to
join the society in its newly remodeled basement commons area of the red brick building
on Main Street museum campus.What is it like to be a musician from Kansas and what can
their music tell us about time and place? Using music and storytelling, this
presentation explores informal music traditions, styles and musicians from
Territorial Kansas up through the age of the radio and concludes with a
demonstration of various instruments and music from early 19th and 20th century
Kansas.Doty is a music historian and works at the
Riley County Historical Society in Manhattan, Kan. He has taught music lessons for more than 20 years, specializing in piano, guitar, fiddle and mandolin. He plays the fiddle in Tallgrass Express String Band, a folk group based
in the Flint Hills, which plays original songs about the region.

Ellis County Historical Society presentation explores Kansas music traditions

<div> <script src="https://embed-998653.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="283929f9-ab9c-4787-a140-5ed51b09eddb" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>

Back 2 School photo sweeps underway

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dementia is not a specific disease but is rather a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interferes with doing every day activities.

 Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. 

Though dementia mostly affects older adults, it is not a part of normal aging. 

Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills.

 Eventually, the disease will prevent one from carrying out the simplest of daily tasks.

 While Alzheimer’s disease cannot be prevented, slowed, or cured, there are things you can do to live an overall brain-healthy lifestyle. 

Adopt these practices early and continue them throughout your life to help reduce your risk of cognitive decline as you age.

The Alzheimer’s Association offers 10 ways to love your brain and reduce the risk of dementia:

1. Break a sweat. Get at least 150 minutes of exercise per week.

2. Hit the books. Take a class online or in your community.

3. Butt out. Quit smoking now, as this increases your risk for many health conditions including cognitive decline.

4. Follow your heart. Risk factors for heart disease also increase your risk for cognitive decline. A heart-healthy lifestyle is also good for your brain.

5. Heads up! Wear a helmet, use your seatbelt, and prevent falls. Protecting your head can help reduce your risk of cognitive decline.

6. Fuel up right with a healthy and balanced diet.

7. Catch some Zzz’s. A lack of sleep contributes to memory loss and thinking ability. Try to get 9 hours per night.

8. Take care of your mental health. Depression could be linked to an increased risk of cognitive decline.

9. Buddy up. Strong social connections throughout life may support better brain health. Enjoy time with friends, volunteer, engage in hobbies, and be part of your community.

10. Stump yourself. Challenge your brain with card games, puzzles, learning a new skill — these have brain-boosting benefits.

Here is a bonus #11. Treat hearing loss early and wear your hearing aids! Research has found a correlation between the severity of someone's hearing loss and their risk of developing dementia. 

Among individuals with hearing loss that was rated as moderate to severe, the incidence of dementia was 61% higher than in those with good hearing. Dr. Frank Lin of Johns Hopkins conducted studies around hearing loss. 

“Brain scans show us that hearing loss may contribute to a faster rate of atrophy in the brain,” Lin says. “Hearing loss also contributes to social isolation. You may not want to be with people as much, and when you are you may not engage in conversation as much. These factors may contribute to dementia.”

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" 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>According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dementia is not a specific disease but is rather a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interferes with doing every day activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. Though dementia mostly affects older adults, it is not a part of normal aging. Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. Eventually, the disease will prevent one from carrying out the simplest of daily tasks. While Alzheimer’s disease cannot be prevented, slowed, or cured, there are things you can do to live an overall brain-healthy lifestyle. Adopt these practices early and continue them throughout your life to help reduce your risk of cognitive decline as you age.<h2>The Alzheimer’s Association offers 10 ways to love your brain and reduce the risk of dementia:</h2>1. Break a sweat. Get at least 150 minutes of exercise per week.2. Hit the books. Take a class online or in your community.3. Butt out. Quit smoking now, as this increases your risk for many health conditions including cognitive decline.4. Follow your heart. Risk factors for heart disease also increase your risk for cognitive decline. A heart-healthy lifestyle is also good for your brain.5. Heads up! Wear a helmet, use your seatbelt, and prevent falls. Protecting your head can help reduce your risk of cognitive decline.6. Fuel up right with a healthy and balanced diet.7. Catch some Zzz’s. A lack of sleep contributes to memory loss and thinking ability. Try to get 9 hours per night.8. Take care of your mental health. Depression could be linked to an increased risk of cognitive decline.9. Buddy up. Strong social connections throughout life may support better brain health. Enjoy time with friends, volunteer, engage in hobbies, and be part of your community.10. Stump yourself. Challenge your brain with card games, puzzles, learning a new skill — these have brain-boosting benefits.Here is a bonus #11. Treat hearing loss early and wear your hearing aids! Research has found a correlation between the severity of someone's hearing loss and their risk of developing dementia. Among individuals with hearing loss that was rated as moderate to severe, the incidence of dementia was 61% higher than in those with good hearing. Dr. Frank Lin of Johns Hopkins conducted studies around hearing loss. “Brain scans show us that hearing loss may contribute to a faster rate of atrophy in the brain,” Lin says. “Hearing loss also contributes to social isolation. You may not want to be with people as much, and when you are you may not engage in conversation as much. These factors may contribute to dementia.”Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Dementia and brain health

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University has expanded eligibility for its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/grants/land-grant-promise/">Land Grant Promise</a>&nbsp;to students from all 105 Kansas counties after a successful pilot for 10 counties in fall 2022.

K-State is committed to fulfilling its land-grant mission by offering essential financial support to talented Kansas undergraduate students pursuing a world-class education at the university. 

The K-State Land Grant Promise assures that full-time, Pell-eligible undergraduates with a total household income of $70,000 or less will receive a total grant and scholarship aid package up to the equivalent cost of 15 credit hours of in-state tuition.

Students are automatically evaluated for this opportunity once they are enrolled at full time, 12 or more hours, for a semester and have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, by K-State’s priority date of March 1. 

The promise, which has been expanded to all K-State locations — including the Manhattan, Salina and Olathe campuses and K-State Online — is offered to qualifying undergraduates actively working toward their first bachelor's degrees.

"We are committed to improving student access and success at K-State," said Karen Goos, vice provost of enrollment management at K-State "Of the Land Grant Promise recipients this fall, more than 48% identify as first generation or first in their family to pursue a bachelor's degree. 

Removing financial barriers to K-State, a university that celebrates the highest retention and graduation rates of any university in the state, provides a pathway to a bright future full of opportunity."

Students who do not qualify for the K-State Land Grant Promise may be eligible for other need-based aid, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/grants/freshman-wildcat.html">Freshman Wildcat Grant or Wildcat Opportunity Grant</a>.

K-State also offers micro-retention grants, completion grants and emergency assistance to help students overcome financial barriers.

For more information about scholarships and aid, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/">Office of Student Financial Assistance's website</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629766545157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN — Kansas State University has expanded eligibility for its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/grants/land-grant-promise/">Land Grant Promise</a>&nbsp;to students from all 105 Kansas counties after a successful pilot for 10 counties in fall 2022.K-State is committed to fulfilling its land-grant mission by offering essential financial support to talented Kansas undergraduate students pursuing a world-class education at the university. The K-State Land Grant Promise assures that full-time, Pell-eligible undergraduates with a total household income of $70,000 or less will receive a total grant and scholarship aid package up to the equivalent cost of 15 credit hours of in-state tuition.Students are automatically evaluated for this opportunity once they are enrolled at full time, 12 or more hours, for a semester and have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, by K-State’s priority date of March 1. The promise, which has been expanded to all K-State locations — including the Manhattan, Salina and Olathe campuses and K-State Online — is offered to qualifying undergraduates actively working toward their first bachelor's degrees."We are committed to improving student access and success at K-State," said Karen Goos, vice provost of enrollment management at K-State "Of the Land Grant Promise recipients this fall, more than 48% identify as first generation or first in their family to pursue a bachelor's degree. Removing financial barriers to K-State, a university that celebrates the highest retention and graduation rates of any university in the state, provides a pathway to a bright future full of opportunity."Students who do not qualify for the K-State Land Grant Promise may be eligible for other need-based aid, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/grants/freshman-wildcat.html">Freshman Wildcat Grant or Wildcat Opportunity Grant</a>. K-State also offers micro-retention grants, completion grants and emergency assistance to help students overcome financial barriers.For more information about scholarships and aid, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/scholarships-aid/">Office of Student Financial Assistance's website</a>.&nbsp;

K-State expands Land Grant Promise statewide 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693597697049.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a> Director of Recruitment and Retention David Clingan shares updates from the MicroFactory project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="As work continues on MicroFactory Grow Hays looks to possible tenants" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:450px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=haefk-1495fca-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a> Director of Recruitment and Retention David Clingan shares updates from the MicroFactory project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: As work continues on MicroFactory Grow Hays looks to possible tenants

Just as I have no clue how a weather front can affect fish that spend their lives under water, I also fail to grasp how the dreadful heat can affect both my physical and mental state as I sit in an air-conditioned home, but for me it certainly does. As I sat in front of my computer today searching for words to put on the screen, I found this old column from years ago and decided it warrants dusting off for this week.

During a hot, dry spell a few years back, a friend told me she’d been hearing the call of a “rain crow” and asked me if I knew what kind of bird it was. She also said she had been seeing “sundogs” in the evening and that they were both supposedly predictors of rain. Now I remember someone’s grandpa talking about a rain crow when I was a kid, or storm crow as he called it, and I knew absolutely zero about sundogs, but given their supposed rain prediction powers, I delved deeper.

I found numerous references to a “rain crow” and all seemed to agree that it was in fact a Yellow- Billed Cuckoo (which does not appear in any Kansas bird books I own.) Few, however wanted to stick their neck out concerning its rain prediction ability; one website tossed around the figure of 3 days from first hearing one until rain. Sundogs on the other hand, were quite a popular subject, and are ice crystals high in the atmosphere that, when sunlight shines through them can give the illusion of a second or third sun on each side of the actual sun. I’ve seen sun dogs a couple times over the years in the winter. But once again, however, sundogs ties to predicting rain were sparse.

My search turned up so many proverbs and “old wives’ tales” concerning rain that I decided to enlist the help of Ross Jansen, Meteorologist at KWCH TV channel 12 and play an Exploring Kansas Outdoors version of Myth Busters. I read several rain prediction fables to Ross over the phone and got his take on each. Concerning sundogs, Ross said there is some correct science in tying sundogs to rain, in that the same ice crystals that cause them have the ability to form clouds containing rain. But as far as them predicting rain, Ross was hesitant to agree to that. Next, I asked him about a ring around the moon predicting rain, and again he said that a ring around the moon indeed meant there was moisture at some level, but said it was so high up that the chance of it finding its way to us in the form of rain was nil. “Red sky at night, sailors delight; red sky in morning, sailors take warning” is another widely quoted proverb about rain. Since weather patterns typically move across the country from west to east, the gist of the explanation is that a red morning sky means we are seeing sunlight through a weather system yet to come, while a red evening sky means we are seeing a weather system moving away from us. Ross said he has indeed noticed that morning thunderstorms often bring with them a red morning sky, and that there was again some correct science accompanying the tale. But also like the previous two fables, he felt it was a stretch to say that they actually predicted rain. We agreed to call these three myths SEMI-BUSTED.

Another proverb I found read “When grass is dry at night, look for rain before the light; when grass is dry at morning light, look for rain before the night.” This one uses the presence or absence of dew at certain times to predict rain. Ross says that the presence or absence of dew depends solely on night time temperatures and dew point temperatures and saw no link between them and a prediction for rain. We declared this one BUSTED. The next was an Indian proverb that says “If the moon is red, of rain she

speaks.” Ross said a red moon is red only because of smoke or dust; again BUSTED. Next, I asked him about something I’ve always thought to be a rain predictor, that being the fact that birds fly lower and congregate on power lines just before a storm because the lower air pressure preceding a storm makes it tough for them to attain lift and fly. He debunked that also by telling me that when air pressure is low, the air as a whole actually rises; BUSTED again.

I could literally spend the next month cussing and discussing all the old-time weather fables and proverbs I found while writing this piece. To those of you who put stock in any of the rain predictors I cast doubt upon, I’m sorry to have rained on your parade (yes, most certainly pun intended) even though I’m certain some of these hold true some of the time. Ross even told me that his mom swears by an old tale that says it will rain 100 days after a fog; she even keeps track of it on her calendar. Maybe that will win me back some points and make you feel better again about your favorite weather tales knowing that the weather guy’s mom even believes them!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Just as I have no clue how a weather front can affect fish that spend their lives under water, I also fail to grasp how the dreadful heat can affect both my physical and mental state as I sit in an air-conditioned home, but for me it certainly does. As I sat in front of my computer today searching for words to put on the screen, I found this old column from years ago and decided it warrants dusting off for this week.During a hot, dry spell a few years back, a friend told me she’d been hearing the call of a “rain crow” and asked me if I knew what kind of bird it was. She also said she had been seeing “sundogs” in the evening and that they were both supposedly predictors of rain. Now I remember someone’s grandpa talking about a rain crow when I was a kid, or storm crow as he called it, and I knew absolutely zero about sundogs, but given their supposed rain prediction powers, I delved deeper.I found numerous references to a “rain crow” and all seemed to agree that it was in fact a Yellow- Billed Cuckoo (which does not appear in any Kansas bird books I own.) Few, however wanted to stick their neck out concerning its rain prediction ability; one website tossed around the figure of 3 days from first hearing one until rain. Sundogs on the other hand, were quite a popular subject, and are ice crystals high in the atmosphere that, when sunlight shines through them can give the illusion of a second or third sun on each side of the actual sun. I’ve seen sun dogs a couple times over the years in the winter. But once again, however, sundogs ties to predicting rain were sparse.My search turned up so many proverbs and “old wives’ tales” concerning rain that I decided to enlist the help of Ross Jansen, Meteorologist at KWCH TV channel 12 and play an Exploring Kansas Outdoors version of Myth Busters. I read several rain prediction fables to Ross over the phone and got his take on each. Concerning sundogs, Ross said there is some correct science in tying sundogs to rain, in that the same ice crystals that cause them have the ability to form clouds containing rain. But as far as them predicting rain, Ross was hesitant to agree to that. Next, I asked him about a ring around the moon predicting rain, and again he said that a ring around the moon indeed meant there was moisture at some level, but said it was so high up that the chance of it finding its way to us in the form of rain was nil. “Red sky at night, sailors delight; red sky in morning, sailors take warning” is another widely quoted proverb about rain. Since weather patterns typically move across the country from west to east, the gist of the explanation is that a red morning sky means we are seeing sunlight through a weather system yet to come, while a red evening sky means we are seeing a weather system moving away from us. Ross said he has indeed noticed that morning thunderstorms often bring with them a red morning sky, and that there was again some correct science accompanying the tale. But also like the previous two fables, he felt it was a stretch to say that they actually predicted rain. We agreed to call these three myths SEMI-BUSTED.Another proverb I found read “When grass is dry at night, look for rain before the light; when grass is dry at morning light, look for rain before the night.” This one uses the presence or absence of dew at certain times to predict rain. Ross says that the presence or absence of dew depends solely on night time temperatures and dew point temperatures and saw no link between them and a prediction for rain. We declared this one BUSTED. The next was an Indian proverb that says “If the moon is red, of rain shespeaks.” Ross said a red moon is red only because of smoke or dust; again BUSTED. Next, I asked him about something I’ve always thought to be a rain predictor, that being the fact that birds fly lower and congregate on power lines just before a storm because the lower air pressure preceding a storm makes it tough for them to attain lift and fly. He debunked that also by telling me that when air pressure is low, the air as a whole actually rises; BUSTED again.I could literally spend the next month cussing and discussing all the old-time weather fables and proverbs I found while writing this piece. To those of you who put stock in any of the rain predictors I cast doubt upon, I’m sorry to have rained on your parade (yes, most certainly pun intended) even though I’m certain some of these hold true some of the time. Ross even told me that his mom swears by an old tale that says it will rain 100 days after a fog; she even keeps track of it on her calendar. Maybe that will win me back some points and make you feel better again about your favorite weather tales knowing that the weather guy’s mom even believes them!Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com

Exploring Outdoor Kansas: Of Rain Crows and Sundogs

City of Hays offices will be closed on Monday, September 4, 2023, in observance of the Labor Day holiday.

Refuse and recycling holiday schedule change

Due to the observance of Labor Day on September 4, 2023, refuse/recycling route collection schedules will be altered as follows: 

Monday, September 4, 2023 and Tuesday, September 5, 2023 will be picked up on Tuesday, September 5, 2023. 

There is no anticipated change to Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday’s collection schedules.

Although collections may not occur on your normal day, collections will be completed during the week. &nbsp; 

It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. 

Please make sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 AM, and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of Hays&nbsp;City of Hays offices will be closed on Monday, September 4, 2023, in observance of the Labor Day holiday.<h2>Refuse and recycling holiday schedule change</h2>Due to the observance of Labor Day on September 4, 2023, refuse/recycling route collection schedules will be altered as follows: Monday, September 4, 2023 and Tuesday, September 5, 2023 will be picked up on Tuesday, September 5, 2023. There is no anticipated change to Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday’s collection schedules.Although collections may not occur on your normal day, collections will be completed during the week. &nbsp; It is anticipated that heavy volumes of refuse/recycling will be encountered around the holidays. Please make sure your refuse and recycling are out by 7:00 AM, and keep in mind that the trucks have no set time schedule.City of Hays customers that have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 628-7350.

Hays city offices closed, refuse routes altered in observance of Labor Day

A Fort Hays State University graduate student in graphic design has drawn inspiration from her family to create her master of fine arts exhibit, which is now on display at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the FHSU campus.

Hays native Chelsey Augustine's&nbsp;MFA thesis exhibition in graphic design, which is titled "Mettle," will be on display through Sept. 8.

Augustine, 25, who comes from a Volga German family, said her family collectively are hard-working people.

"That's something that has really shaped me as a person and had a lot to do with my life," she said. "I drew inspiration from specific people in my family, mostly my grandparents and my great-grandparents. "

Mettle refers to a person's innate ability to make it through difficult times, Augustine said.

"I picked that name because I felt that it encompassed the people that I was basing the brands off of. My grandparents and my great-grandparents went through a lot of very difficult situations. I think that mentality rubbed off on me," she said.

She said she thought it all matched her experience in grad school.

"... just making it through and doing what I enjoy doing, which is design," she said.

Her branding for Lewsids, a fictitious waterproof leather brand, was based on her great-grandfather Lewis Steinert, her grandfather Sid Steinert and her father Terry Augustine.

"They really know what it's like to get their hands dirty to get the job done," she said in her artist statement on the work. "I knew I wanted to create a masculine brand that encompassed this 'Do-It-Yourself' attitude with a splash of western swag and my dad's love of fishing."

Her distillery brand, Stiks, is based on her grandfather, Joe Dinkel. It is an umbrella brand with other labels under it like a family, she said.

Augustine completed her undergraduate degree in art at FHSU but never had the opportunity to study sculpture. She took the time during her graduate studies to experiment with metal casting. This took the form of cast llamas.&nbsp;

Augustine said she took inspiration from sculpture professor Toby Flores. She made a mold for the llamas out of a toy from a dollar store.

"It's just a piece of me," she said. "I just made them into these little beings. I made a lot of them because I couldn't stop. ... They were just kind of fun."

In the show, there are llamas with Care Bears, a punk rock llama and a three-headed Jesus llama.&nbsp;

Augustine finished her coursework in the spring but will officially receive her degree at the end of the fall semester.

She has taken a job as an assistant professor of design at Doane University in Nebraska.&nbsp;

Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693498671436.jpeg" alt="Visitors to&nbsp;Chelsey Augustine's MFA thesis exhibition, "Mettle," view a branding display at the Hays Art Walk Aug. 25. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Visitors to&nbsp;Chelsey Augustine's MFA thesis exhibition, "Mettle," view a branding display at the Hays Art Walk Aug. 25. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA Fort Hays State University graduate student in graphic design has drawn inspiration from her family to create her master of fine arts exhibit, which is now on display at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the FHSU campus.Hays native Chelsey Augustine's&nbsp;MFA thesis exhibition in graphic design, which is titled "Mettle," will be on display through Sept. 8.Augustine, 25, who comes from a Volga German family, said her family collectively are hard-working people."That's something that has really shaped me as a person and had a lot to do with my life," she said. "I drew inspiration from specific people in my family, mostly my grandparents and my great-grandparents. "Mettle refers to a person's innate ability to make it through difficult times, Augustine said."I picked that name because I felt that it encompassed the people that I was basing the brands off of. My grandparents and my great-grandparents went through a lot of very difficult situations. I think that mentality rubbed off on me," she said.She said she thought it all matched her experience in grad school."... just making it through and doing what I enjoy doing, which is design," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693500174050.jpeg" alt="Photos of Augustine's ancestors from whom she said she drew inspiration for her graphic design work. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photos of Augustine's ancestors from whom she said she drew inspiration for her graphic design work. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Her branding for Lewsids, a fictitious waterproof leather brand, was based on her great-grandfather Lewis Steinert, her grandfather Sid Steinert and her father Terry Augustine."They really know what it's like to get their hands dirty to get the job done," she said in her artist statement on the work. "I knew I wanted to create a masculine brand that encompassed this 'Do-It-Yourself' attitude with a splash of western swag and my dad's love of fishing."Her distillery brand, Stiks, is based on her grandfather, Joe Dinkel. It is an umbrella brand with other labels under it like a family, she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693500631559.jpeg" alt="A llama bronze casting with Care Bears by FHSU art student Chelsey Augustine. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A llama bronze casting with Care Bears by FHSU art student Chelsey Augustine. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Augustine completed her undergraduate degree in art at FHSU but never had the opportunity to study sculpture. She took the time during her graduate studies to experiment with metal casting. This took the form of cast llamas.&nbsp;Augustine said she took inspiration from sculpture professor Toby Flores. She made a mold for the llamas out of a toy from a dollar store."It's just a piece of me," she said. "I just made them into these little beings. I made a lot of them because I couldn't stop. ... They were just kind of fun."In the show, there are llamas with Care Bears, a punk rock llama and a three-headed Jesus llama.&nbsp;Augustine finished her coursework in the spring but will officially receive her degree at the end of the fall semester.She has taken a job as an assistant professor of design at Doane University in Nebraska.&nbsp;Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

Volga German FHSU art student inspired by family history

All 13 Colby Community College Distance Learning Veterinary Nursing Program graduates who sat for the Veterinary Technology National Exam (VTNE) achieved a 100% first-time pass rate during the July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023, testing window.

The VTNE is a three-hour exam consisting of 170 questions covering nine domains of responsibility deemed essential for veterinary nurses.

Colby Community College is a pioneer in veterinary medicine education, starting a program in 1969 as one of the first in the country. The accredited distance learning program launched in 2014, and enrollment has increased exponentially. The college is just one of six institutions that deliver vet nursing through both modalities.

Dr. Jennifer Martin leads the 82-credit hour program. Instructors are Dr. Beth Fenton, Angie Harris, BS, RVT, Sheyenne Spady, RVT, and Dr. Gina Vanloenen. Amanda Hart serves as the Veterinary Nursing Enrollment and Retention Specialist.

For more information on becoming a veterinary nurse, contact the department at (785) 460-5462 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:vetnursing.assistant@colbycc.edu">vetnursing.assistant@colbycc.edu</a>.

Colby Community CollegeAll 13 Colby Community College Distance Learning Veterinary Nursing Program graduates who sat for the Veterinary Technology National Exam (VTNE) achieved a 100% first-time pass rate during the July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023, testing window.The VTNE is a three-hour exam consisting of 170 questions covering nine domains of responsibility deemed essential for veterinary nurses.Colby Community College is a pioneer in veterinary medicine education, starting a program in 1969 as one of the first in the country. The accredited distance learning program launched in 2014, and enrollment has increased exponentially. The college is just one of six institutions that deliver vet nursing through both modalities.Dr. Jennifer Martin leads the 82-credit hour program. Instructors are Dr. Beth Fenton, Angie Harris, BS, RVT, Sheyenne Spady, RVT, and Dr. Gina Vanloenen. Amanda Hart serves as the Veterinary Nursing Enrollment and Retention Specialist.For more information on becoming a veterinary nurse, contact the department at (785) 460-5462 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:vetnursing.assistant@colbycc.edu">vetnursing.assistant@colbycc.edu</a>.

All Colby Community College veterinary nursing students pass board

Kansas today is an increasingly urban state.&nbsp; More precisely, it is mostly&nbsp;suburban.&nbsp; More than half the state’s population lives in just five counties– Johnson, Sedgwick, Shawnee, Wyandotte, and Douglas.&nbsp; In many of these communities, most people choose to live not in the city’s core, but rather in the suburban areas around it.&nbsp; The state’s most populated county, Johnson, is entirely suburban except for disappearing, rural southern and western edges.

In Kansas and all over the United States, suburban communities were established and grew based on restrictive zoning that strongly favored single-family houses on medium-sized or large lots, along with the Interstate highway system.&nbsp; The move to the suburbs often excluded lower income people and those of color, who had great difficulties getting home loans from bankers or cooperation from realtors.&nbsp; Many were simply told they were not welcome.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Later, when middle class people of color did seek to relocate, they were often steered to certain suburban locations and away from others by realtors, which is called “blockbusting.”&nbsp; This is what happened to the south Kansas City, MO&nbsp;<a href="https://kuscholarworks.ku.edu/handle/1808/15154?show=full" target="_blank">community of Hickman Mills</a>, where I grew up, along with nearby Grandview.&nbsp; Life was pretty good in our increasingly diverse community, until white families started moving out in droves.

Today, the suburban model is being re-thought.&nbsp; Lawrence city officials are creating a&nbsp;<a href="https://lawrencekstimes.com/2022/08/29/what-is-lawrence-land-development-code/" target="_blank">new land development code</a>&nbsp;emphasizing mixed-use neighborhoods, walking, cycling, and public transportation, and more multifamily housing. In Wichita, the Sedgwick County commission&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article272573670.html" target="_blank">recently rezoned</a>&nbsp;a suburban area for duplexes amidst controversy.&nbsp; Topeka officials shot down a plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksnt.com/news/topeka-city-council-rejects-rezoning-proposal/" target="_blank">rezone a parcel of land</a>&nbsp;for a drug treatment facility.&nbsp; Opponents argued that a citywide development plan was needed first.

The rezoning fight turned particularly hostile in Prairie Village, a small suburb in northeast Johnson County.&nbsp; It was originally developed in the 1940s by developer J.C. Nichols, who created Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza.&nbsp; Prairie Village is comfortable, with plenty of trees and parks.&nbsp; It is accessible and walkable, has great schools, and is an easy drive to the downtowns of both Kansas Cities.&nbsp; Today, most homes there cost $300,000-$500,000.

Unfortunately, Nichols also included the notorious&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-11-17/racial-covenants-a-relic-of-the-past-are-still-on-the-books-across-the-country" target="_blank">restrictive deed covenants</a>, which held that “none of said land may be conveyed to, used, owned, or occupied by negroes as owners or tenants.”&nbsp; These cannot be enforced today due to court rulings, federal, and state laws, but they remain in the property deeds.&nbsp;

With property costs rising, Prairie Village Mayor Eric Mikkelson and allies propose reforming one of the most protected aspects of suburban life– property zoning.&nbsp; They seek more multifamily housing such as apartments and condominiums, plus allowing property owners to construct “granny flats”– small auxiliary housing that owners rent out for extra income.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prairie Villagers are also concerned about “teardowns”-- well-to-do people buying older, smaller houses just for the lots, tearing them down, and building a larger house. These push up property assessments for the whole community, crowding out neighbors with modest incomes who can no longer afford the property taxes.

The inevitable backlash came with Prairie Village United.&nbsp; They want all rezoning decided parcel by parcel, rather than a citywide growth plan.&nbsp; They also want to limit the mayor’s powers.&nbsp; A PV United supporter recently won a city council seat.&nbsp; Tensions run high at&nbsp;<a href="https://shawneemissionpost.com/2023/08/21/prairie-village-housing-zoning-dispute-210243/" target="_blank">public meetings</a>.

Today’s suburbs were built with highway commuting, blockbusting, and exclusive zoning.&nbsp; With housing costs skyrocketing and Kansas becoming mostly suburban, a re-think in order.&nbsp; Controversies in Wichita, Topeka, and Prairie Village show that it will not be easy.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576785940426.png" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University." />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas today is an increasingly urban state.&nbsp; More precisely, it is mostly&nbsp;suburban.&nbsp; More than half the state’s population lives in just five counties– Johnson, Sedgwick, Shawnee, Wyandotte, and Douglas.&nbsp; In many of these communities, most people choose to live not in the city’s core, but rather in the suburban areas around it.&nbsp; The state’s most populated county, Johnson, is entirely suburban except for disappearing, rural southern and western edges.In Kansas and all over the United States, suburban communities were established and grew based on restrictive zoning that strongly favored single-family houses on medium-sized or large lots, along with the Interstate highway system.&nbsp; The move to the suburbs often excluded lower income people and those of color, who had great difficulties getting home loans from bankers or cooperation from realtors.&nbsp; Many were simply told they were not welcome.&nbsp;&nbsp;Later, when middle class people of color did seek to relocate, they were often steered to certain suburban locations and away from others by realtors, which is called “blockbusting.”&nbsp; This is what happened to the south Kansas City, MO&nbsp;<a href="https://kuscholarworks.ku.edu/handle/1808/15154?show=full" target="_blank">community of Hickman Mills</a>, where I grew up, along with nearby Grandview.&nbsp; Life was pretty good in our increasingly diverse community, until white families started moving out in droves.Today, the suburban model is being re-thought.&nbsp; Lawrence city officials are creating a&nbsp;<a href="https://lawrencekstimes.com/2022/08/29/what-is-lawrence-land-development-code/" target="_blank">new land development code</a>&nbsp;emphasizing mixed-use neighborhoods, walking, cycling, and public transportation, and more multifamily housing. In Wichita, the Sedgwick County commission&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article272573670.html" target="_blank">recently rezoned</a>&nbsp;a suburban area for duplexes amidst controversy.&nbsp; Topeka officials shot down a plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksnt.com/news/topeka-city-council-rejects-rezoning-proposal/" target="_blank">rezone a parcel of land</a>&nbsp;for a drug treatment facility.&nbsp; Opponents argued that a citywide development plan was needed first.The rezoning fight turned particularly hostile in Prairie Village, a small suburb in northeast Johnson County.&nbsp; It was originally developed in the 1940s by developer J.C. Nichols, who created Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza.&nbsp; Prairie Village is comfortable, with plenty of trees and parks.&nbsp; It is accessible and walkable, has great schools, and is an easy drive to the downtowns of both Kansas Cities.&nbsp; Today, most homes there cost $300,000-$500,000.Unfortunately, Nichols also included the notorious&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-11-17/racial-covenants-a-relic-of-the-past-are-still-on-the-books-across-the-country" target="_blank">restrictive deed covenants</a>, which held that “none of said land may be conveyed to, used, owned, or occupied by negroes as owners or tenants.”&nbsp; These cannot be enforced today due to court rulings, federal, and state laws, but they remain in the property deeds.&nbsp;With property costs rising, Prairie Village Mayor Eric Mikkelson and allies propose reforming one of the most protected aspects of suburban life– property zoning.&nbsp; They seek more multifamily housing such as apartments and condominiums, plus allowing property owners to construct “granny flats”– small auxiliary housing that owners rent out for extra income.&nbsp;&nbsp;Prairie Villagers are also concerned about “teardowns”-- well-to-do people buying older, smaller houses just for the lots, tearing them down, and building a larger house. These push up property assessments for the whole community, crowding out neighbors with modest incomes who can no longer afford the property taxes.The inevitable backlash came with Prairie Village United.&nbsp; They want all rezoning decided parcel by parcel, rather than a citywide growth plan.&nbsp; They also want to limit the mayor’s powers.&nbsp; A PV United supporter recently won a city council seat.&nbsp; Tensions run high at&nbsp;<a href="https://shawneemissionpost.com/2023/08/21/prairie-village-housing-zoning-dispute-210243/" target="_blank">public meetings</a>.Today’s suburbs were built with highway commuting, blockbusting, and exclusive zoning.&nbsp; With housing costs skyrocketing and Kansas becoming mostly suburban, a re-think in order.&nbsp; Controversies in Wichita, Topeka, and Prairie Village show that it will not be easy.&nbsp;