By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Summer officially kicks off later this month. The weather is also warming up, allowing for many outdoor activities in Hays.

Melissa Dixon, Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director, talks about some of the event highlights.

An updated calendar of events is available on the bureau's webpage at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673100607004.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostSummer officially kicks off later this month. The weather is also warming up, allowing for many outdoor activities in Hays.Melissa Dixon, Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director, talks about some of the event highlights.<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/BxcNLRoC-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Hays CVB June 2023" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685651300271.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An updated calendar of events is available on the bureau's webpage at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.

🎥 CVB: June events and activities in Hays

🎤 Forward Ever: State Library of Kansas director of reference Cindy Roupe

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

A harmful algal bloom may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. 

Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MDEuNzc2MTcyNjEifQ._6vHFrTku0VEd48z52hUfgagg3tm3Y77ZZoRATgdrd8/s/1305913623/br/204122213650-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593727789226.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have issued a public health advisory update due to blue-green algae.&nbsp;A harmful algal bloom may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you, or your dog, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzExNjMvUmVwb3J0LWFuLUlsbG5lc3Mtb3ItSGVhbHRoLUluY2lkZW50P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MDEuNzc2MTcyNjEifQ._6vHFrTku0VEd48z52hUfgagg3tm3Y77ZZoRATgdrd8/s/1305913623/br/204122213650-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.Active Advisories&nbsp;Warning<ul>
 <li>Marion Lake (Reservoir), Marion County&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Lifted<ul>
 <li>Norton Lake&nbsp;(Keith Sebelius Reservoir), Norton County (Lifted on June 1)</li>
 </ul>

KDHE: Algae warning lifted at Norton Lake

Hays Police Department responded to 63 incidents May 14-20, 2023 according to the HPD activity log.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666041529157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Police Department responded to 63 incidents May 14-20, 2023 according to the HPD activity log.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685453860415.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685453905047.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666041529157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays Police Dept. activity log, May 14-20, 2023

As work continues inside the home of the <a href="https://www.echshays.org/">Ellis County Historical Society</a>, 100 W.
Seventh, the group will give visitors an opportunity to see two exhibits for
free during extended summer hours.

Executive Director Amanda Rupp said she is very excited to have the museum open to the public seven days a week. 

“We are
going to be usually open almost every day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and then even on
Thursdays, we're going to be open until 7 p.m.," Rupp said. “If you'd like to
come to do some research and you work during the day, [you can] come to visit us during
the evening hours. We're even going to be open Saturdays and Sundays.
Sundays, we will be from 1 to 5 p.m.”

The
extended hours are thanks, in part, to additional staff, including Patty Nicholas, she
said.

“I was
able to hire a part-time archivist assistant, and she has been putting those
into our new Past Perfect system,” Rupp said. “So now, if you come down, and
you want to look up some family history, she's going to be able to assist you
in going through the things that we have in archives.”

She said
Court Docket books being entered now – dating back to the 1860-70s – are
particularly noteworthy.

“All
written in hand, that nice calligraphy, they are docket books about notices to
appear or criminal actions, they vary from the city of Hays to other
townships in the county,” Rupp said. “Some of them are pretty interesting to
read if you can read the calligraphy, but she's going to put those in our
system so that you don't have to thumb through them all by hand.”

Nicholas
has a history with the Fort Hays State University Forsyth Library, the Hays
Public Library and Historic Fort Hays, Rupp said.

“She's
really in her element,” Rupp said. "She knows archives in and out and how to put
those systems into order so that they can be useful to other people. I'm
excited about having her ...”

Now that
the society has been working on the archives, they plan to start going through artifacts
that will be put into a storage area to accommodate work on the upstairs of the
building.

Work on a disabled-accessible bathroom is near completion, and work on an accessible entrance is expected
later this year.

“Hopefully,
mid-fall, I think, is when they can get there with their crews,” Rupp said. “So
yeah, we just keep on moving. You blink your eyes. You're going to miss it.”

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9acd7c52-251f-4e4b-90ae-281f2a884f22">That
work is being funded in part with a Heritage Trust Fund Grant awarded to the
society from the Kansas State Historic Society.</a>

HVAC
replacement is also expected to begin this year.

Two area
students also will serve the society as interns during the summer, along with
their four staff members. The society will utilize community volunteers during work nights every
second Tuesday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m.

“One of
them is returning from last year, and she was a senior this year at Fort Hays State,”
Rupp said. “Another one is a high school student here through Hays. They both come to us through the <a href="https://www.nex-generation.org/">Next
Generation Roundup for Youth</a>
programs.”

While the new staff acclimates to their positions and
repair work is underway, the society will host two exhibitions over the summer,
including a traveling exhibit from Salina’s Smoky Hill Museum.

“It is supposed to be about
the notorious – I don't want to say outlaws – notorious people of the plains in
the Wild West era of this area,” Rupp said.

The Sternberg Firearms
Collection will again be on display, with some additions to last summer’s exhibition.

“The Sternberg Firearms Collection
got so much attention last summer that we have decided to keep it up,” Rupp
said. “It had been in storage for so long, why not keep showing it around?”

The society’s outbuildings will
be available to view as well.

“We want to get the
excitement going for our community and see what we have to offer, so please
come down and visit us,” Rupp said. “Even if you only have 30 minutes and you
want to get the kids out of the house for a minute.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685640084520.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostAs work continues inside the home of the <a href="https://www.echshays.org/">Ellis County Historical Society</a>, 100 W.
Seventh, the group will give visitors an opportunity to see two exhibits for
free during extended summer hours.Executive Director Amanda Rupp said she is very excited to have the museum open to the public seven days a week. <div><iframe title="Ellis County Historical Society summer exhibit ushers in expanded hours" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9er77-1420ffa-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>“We are
going to be usually open almost every day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and then even on
Thursdays, we're going to be open until 7 p.m.," Rupp said. “If you'd like to
come to do some research and you work during the day, [you can] come to visit us during
the evening hours. We're even going to be open Saturdays and Sundays.
Sundays, we will be from 1 to 5 p.m.”The
extended hours are thanks, in part, to additional staff, including Patty Nicholas, she
said.“I was
able to hire a part-time archivist assistant, and she has been putting those
into our new Past Perfect system,” Rupp said. “So now, if you come down, and
you want to look up some family history, she's going to be able to assist you
in going through the things that we have in archives.”She said
Court Docket books being entered now – dating back to the 1860-70s – are
particularly noteworthy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685640154774.jpeg" alt="The "Notorious" exhibition is open now at the Ellis County Historical Society. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post." />
 <figcaption>The "Notorious" exhibition is open now at the Ellis County Historical Society. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post.</figcaption>
 </figure>“All
written in hand, that nice calligraphy, they are docket books about notices to
appear or criminal actions, they vary from the city of Hays to other
townships in the county,” Rupp said. “Some of them are pretty interesting to
read if you can read the calligraphy, but she's going to put those in our
system so that you don't have to thumb through them all by hand.”Nicholas
has a history with the Fort Hays State University Forsyth Library, the Hays
Public Library and Historic Fort Hays, Rupp said.“She's
really in her element,” Rupp said. "She knows archives in and out and how to put
those systems into order so that they can be useful to other people. I'm
excited about having her ...”Now that
the society has been working on the archives, they plan to start going through artifacts
that will be put into a storage area to accommodate work on the upstairs of the
building.Work on a disabled-accessible bathroom is near completion, and work on an accessible entrance is expected
later this year.“Hopefully,
mid-fall, I think, is when they can get there with their crews,” Rupp said. “So
yeah, we just keep on moving. You blink your eyes. You're going to miss it.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685640116082.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/9acd7c52-251f-4e4b-90ae-281f2a884f22">That
work is being funded in part with a Heritage Trust Fund Grant awarded to the
society from the Kansas State Historic Society.</a> HVAC
replacement is also expected to begin this year.Two area
students also will serve the society as interns during the summer, along with
their four staff members. The society will utilize community volunteers during work nights every
second Tuesday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m.“One of
them is returning from last year, and she was a senior this year at Fort Hays State,”
Rupp said. “Another one is a high school student here through Hays. They both come to us through the <a href="https://www.nex-generation.org/">Next
Generation Roundup for Youth</a>
programs.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685641275637.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>While the new staff acclimates to their positions and
repair work is underway, the society will host two exhibitions over the summer,
including a traveling exhibit from Salina’s Smoky Hill Museum.“It is supposed to be about
the notorious – I don't want to say outlaws – notorious people of the plains in
the Wild West era of this area,” Rupp said.The Sternberg Firearms
Collection will again be on display, with some additions to last summer’s exhibition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653503381018.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“The Sternberg Firearms Collection
got so much attention last summer that we have decided to keep it up,” Rupp
said. “It had been in storage for so long, why not keep showing it around?”The society’s outbuildings will
be available to view as well.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685640289439.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The summer exhibitions are
free to view.“We want to get the
excitement going for our community and see what we have to offer, so please
come down and visit us,” Rupp said. “Even if you only have 30 minutes and you
want to get the kids out of the house for a minute.”

🎙 Ellis County Historical Society summer exhibit ushers in expanded hours

TOPEKA&nbsp; – Navigating the health insurance marketplace is no easy task. Whether you have recently lost coverage, are looking for a new plan, or are getting health insurance for the first time, it is important to do your homework. 

I encourage Kansans that are in the market for health insurance to do their due diligence before choosing a plan. When shopping for health insurance, remember that the cheapest option is not always the best choice. Explore your options, compare plans, and make informed decisions to secure coverage that meets your health care needs.

Be sure to consult the department’s Health Insurance Shopper’s Guide before you start shopping. 

Here are a few questions to ask yourself: Is the plan with the lowest premium really the most affordable? You should consider not only the cost of premiums, but also how much you will pay out of pocket when you need health care. 

Do you have a chronic condition or have certain prescription drugs you need? You should confirm that the plan you are seeking covers your needs. Also, if you have a preferred family doctor or hospital, you will want to make sure they are not out of network or you may end up paying more. 

What is the deductible and are you prepared to pay the full cost for services until it is reached? The deductible is the amount you pay before your insurance company starts paying their share of the cost of care. Even with insurance, you pay the full cost of services until you meet your plan’s deductible. Some plans only pay up to a certain dollar amount; you may have to pay the cost beyond that amount. Be sure to carefully review what is covered and what is not. 

Is the person and their insurance company trying to sell you insurance licensed in Kansas? Always be wary of anyone who contacts you unsolicited offering to sell you health insurance. Ask for their state license number and verify online at sbs.naic.org/solar-external-lookup or contact the department at 785-296-7862. 

For other helpful resources, consult the National Association of Insurance Commissioner’s Health Insurance Shopping Tool and the What to Ask When Shopping for Health Insurance guide. 

If you have questions while shopping for health insurance, contact the Kansas Insurance Department’s Consumer Assistance Division toll-free at 1-800-432-2484, by email kid.commissioner@ks.gov or visit the Department online at <a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/">insurance.kansas.gov</a>.

Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt&nbsp;serves as the secretary of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Midwest Zone and co-vice chair of the Financial Regulation Standards and Accreditation (F) Committee of the NAIC. She also serves as a member on the Life Insurance and Annuities (A) Committee and the International Insurance Relations (G) Committee of the NAIC, and the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR) Board of Directors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685110516042.jpeg" alt="Vicki Schmidt is the Kansas Insurance Commissioner. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Vicki Schmidt is the Kansas Insurance Commissioner. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By VICKI SCHMIDT KIDTOPEKA&nbsp; – Navigating the health insurance marketplace is no easy task. Whether you have recently lost coverage, are looking for a new plan, or are getting health insurance for the first time, it is important to do your homework. I encourage Kansans that are in the market for health insurance to do their due diligence before choosing a plan. When shopping for health insurance, remember that the cheapest option is not always the best choice. Explore your options, compare plans, and make informed decisions to secure coverage that meets your health care needs.Be sure to consult the department’s Health Insurance Shopper’s Guide before you start shopping. Here are a few questions to ask yourself: Is the plan with the lowest premium really the most affordable? You should consider not only the cost of premiums, but also how much you will pay out of pocket when you need health care. Do you have a chronic condition or have certain prescription drugs you need? You should confirm that the plan you are seeking covers your needs. Also, if you have a preferred family doctor or hospital, you will want to make sure they are not out of network or you may end up paying more. What is the deductible and are you prepared to pay the full cost for services until it is reached? The deductible is the amount you pay before your insurance company starts paying their share of the cost of care. Even with insurance, you pay the full cost of services until you meet your plan’s deductible. Some plans only pay up to a certain dollar amount; you may have to pay the cost beyond that amount. Be sure to carefully review what is covered and what is not. Is the person and their insurance company trying to sell you insurance licensed in Kansas? Always be wary of anyone who contacts you unsolicited offering to sell you health insurance. Ask for their state license number and verify online at sbs.naic.org/solar-external-lookup or contact the department at 785-296-7862. For other helpful resources, consult the National Association of Insurance Commissioner’s Health Insurance Shopping Tool and the What to Ask When Shopping for Health Insurance guide. If you have questions while shopping for health insurance, contact the Kansas Insurance Department’s Consumer Assistance Division toll-free at 1-800-432-2484, by email kid.commissioner@ks.gov or visit the Department online at <a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/">insurance.kansas.gov</a>. Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt&nbsp;serves as the secretary of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Midwest Zone and co-vice chair of the Financial Regulation Standards and Accreditation (F) Committee of the NAIC. She also serves as a member on the Life Insurance and Annuities (A) Committee and the International Insurance Relations (G) Committee of the NAIC, and the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR) Board of Directors.

SCHMIDT: Navigating the health insurance marketplace is no easy task

SCOTT COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations following an incident in Scott County.

Just after 3:p.m. Thursday,&nbsp; two women came to the Scott County Law Enforcement Center to report an incident that occurred in the 600 block of North Washington in Scott City, according to a media release.

As a result of this investigation, police arrested David Suri, 41, of Scott City on requested charges of Lewd and Lascivious Behavior and Sexual Battery.

Suri was transported to the Scott County Jail and this case has been referred to the Scott County Attorney for prosecution.&nbsp;

Suri has previous convictions for battery, theft, criminal threat and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685702686395.png" alt="Suri has previous convictions for battery, theft, criminal threat and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Suri has previous convictions for battery, theft, criminal threat and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>SCOTT COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations following an incident in Scott County.Just after 3:p.m. Thursday,&nbsp; two women came to the Scott County Law Enforcement Center to report an incident that occurred in the 600 block of North Washington in Scott City, according to a media release.As a result of this investigation, police arrested David Suri, 41, of Scott City on requested charges of Lewd and Lascivious Behavior and Sexual Battery.Suri was transported to the Scott County Jail and this case has been referred to the Scott County Attorney for prosecution.&nbsp;Suri has previous convictions for battery, theft, criminal threat and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Police: Kansas felon accused of sexual battery

LENEXA – Overseen by EPA Region 7 on-scene coordinators (OSCs) and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, response personnel have completed the recovery of discharged oil in Mill Creek from the Dec. 8, 2022 pipeline rupture near Washington, in northcentral Kansas.&nbsp;

While additional response-related tasks are ongoing such as the disposal of oil-impacted soil and sediment; response-generated waste; and the restoration of lands impacted by the response, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has authorized TC Energy to begin restoration work in Mill Creek under Nationwide Permit 27: Aquatic Habitat Restoration, Enhancement, and Establishment Activities.

Through this permit, the restoration of Mill Creek will allow for the creek to be restored to its original condition, form and functions, as well as include enhancement activities that will result in a net gain in aquatic resource functions and services.

“Starting restoration work in Mill Creek is a tremendous milestone and to meet that in five months highlights the commitment and dedication of response personnel,” said&nbsp;EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister. “I am very proud of our team and their commitment and dedication to overseeing the cleanup operations at the site, which included time on-site during extreme winter weather and several holidays.”

EPA and KDHE will continue to monitor the cleanup and restoration of the site and the impacted segments of Mill Creek. KDHE will also oversee the decommissioning of the water treatment facilities; monitor the water quality; work with USACE on restoration efforts; and work with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to evaluate the impacts on wildlife in the area. Monitoring of the surface and groundwater will also be conducted by KDHE.

“We are so pleased to see the progress on the restoration and recovery of Mill Creek and recognize that these are the combined efforts of hundreds of hard-working personnel,” said&nbsp;KDHE Secretary Janet Stanek. “I commend the KDHE team for its diligent and committed response to overseeing the remediation of the creek and surrounding area, and ensuring the future use of the water source.”

<a href="http://url6130.epa.mediaroom.com/ls/click?upn=-2BroytcZInNRyuFbAvAoN5eJhBEt8m0DdyEEkSNo5f2Hgk13qyA7CGoQ20-2Fty7gi8AqhHEbNGlNHI9rxeqNSoGB-2BN15D4-2FHZh37bxKC5XtV96s7mexH-2BQHU1U0Yk2It-2FRbzOAmjC78-2BpoQ5iM-2Ft9czbb-2BKyBN6GnNK6qCJ0YtzUDv7YC7VXzM7vcktyTFsmn3Q0QQ4HVAg9PZmCD-2B30rq0XLRie-2F1W6q3142NJQfp5IMZ8T-2BscsSsJ8h9hEwUjXfX-2FOY79oCU-2FNryNzb7v12w9ta9vcfOO0aEUjlSkqssR51AxGJaaBjZwAELfujfq4ZUteojh65aVxLh-2F0jlsYO-2BumNCTdt9ENu4DdITq8gXBCaBqNmzXrhG0cd3OSOTft4UbUb-2Ft08K2PwjzrpTrf-2FWLImT-2FZrEZ6m751OQtrp6zeWkg-2B5NUDs7K4wwT6aRDfboMz0EwuHls0v3tXLozUmwiLleui065BMwW-2F7TdfdZb2W7rVU8lndmObBdWl66-2BYO4wV7Q3l77YwPWsR93F-2BwKr12ADz3gewSrwKM2jfLuvRD5KmzINZiRq7V6O6hNrQfuFSJy7W7uri2Egjmf9hUBj2Mcj8Imva100ni2y17Qmts-3DMrlH_hnwZc2KLmru8dsOkeuIQ-2FEiK9TFD-2BUMiC-2BMsXOyLaeRMMXg9GT1PzvyekDfCHj07q3TEZMY4hspNrs6QivTG-2BrwkYgPhAc9C0BnZfrC-2FA88L3aknLchMJB0D63-2FvUo476zjkFNtsTIdrEbV6wsDzwf5ZE1KDUiPebhUDKJz-2B7RvpPtJayz0tH1gOlyoL63SeHXlCV-2BUPy85Mim-2Bp9pSigVtiafGA5MSRy-2FWI29uugDGKvCVpuiVPtzzH6TcKjFym" target="_blank">View</a>&nbsp;EPA’s Story Map for the Mill Creek Response.

<a href="http://url6130.epa.mediaroom.com/ls/click?upn=-2BroytcZInNRyuFbAvAoN5YUMS5IFkSiuNOH3EYCbQaZrUpTStiemNhIVgMISS5dR-2BeDNjo9UqqXNlWw1V6bALs9MQQXbQq4fPgZOr-2BPqpns-3DhlPw_hnwZc2KLmru8dsOkeuIQ-2FEiK9TFD-2BUMiC-2BMsXOyLaeRMMXg9GT1PzvyekDfCHj07q3TEZMY4hspNrs6QivTG-2BrwkYgPhAc9C0BnZfrC-2FA8-2BUPssqukULOqIUoPWQr5PtFsHtADjW49ePKZTT3LOzB2ucs8-2BzK3dY542r1sbyUvVfDdnKh4no-2FIIwd8pJB0XvjG5TvKTgrm3KEmR3vkhxkPBNn34YyUZWor1HsWi8eXCyguldOokRk4fP1xwiaVDS" target="_blank">Learn more</a>&nbsp;about EPA’s response operations at Mill Creek.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685111206492.png" alt="Oil cleanup procedure on Mill Creek. EPA photo" />
 <figcaption>Oil cleanup procedure on Mill Creek. EPA photo</figcaption>
 </figure>EPALENEXA – Overseen by EPA Region 7 on-scene coordinators (OSCs) and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, response personnel have completed the recovery of discharged oil in Mill Creek from the Dec. 8, 2022 pipeline rupture near Washington, in northcentral Kansas.&nbsp;While additional response-related tasks are ongoing such as the disposal of oil-impacted soil and sediment; response-generated waste; and the restoration of lands impacted by the response, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has authorized TC Energy to begin restoration work in Mill Creek under Nationwide Permit 27: Aquatic Habitat Restoration, Enhancement, and Establishment Activities.Through this permit, the restoration of Mill Creek will allow for the creek to be restored to its original condition, form and functions, as well as include enhancement activities that will result in a net gain in aquatic resource functions and services.“Starting restoration work in Mill Creek is a tremendous milestone and to meet that in five months highlights the commitment and dedication of response personnel,” said&nbsp;EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister. “I am very proud of our team and their commitment and dedication to overseeing the cleanup operations at the site, which included time on-site during extreme winter weather and several holidays.”EPA and KDHE will continue to monitor the cleanup and restoration of the site and the impacted segments of Mill Creek. KDHE will also oversee the decommissioning of the water treatment facilities; monitor the water quality; work with USACE on restoration efforts; and work with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to evaluate the impacts on wildlife in the area. Monitoring of the surface and groundwater will also be conducted by KDHE.“We are so pleased to see the progress on the restoration and recovery of Mill Creek and recognize that these are the combined efforts of hundreds of hard-working personnel,” said&nbsp;KDHE Secretary Janet Stanek. “I commend the KDHE team for its diligent and committed response to overseeing the remediation of the creek and surrounding area, and ensuring the future use of the water source.”<a href="http://url6130.epa.mediaroom.com/ls/click?upn=-2BroytcZInNRyuFbAvAoN5eJhBEt8m0DdyEEkSNo5f2Hgk13qyA7CGoQ20-2Fty7gi8AqhHEbNGlNHI9rxeqNSoGB-2BN15D4-2FHZh37bxKC5XtV96s7mexH-2BQHU1U0Yk2It-2FRbzOAmjC78-2BpoQ5iM-2Ft9czbb-2BKyBN6GnNK6qCJ0YtzUDv7YC7VXzM7vcktyTFsmn3Q0QQ4HVAg9PZmCD-2B30rq0XLRie-2F1W6q3142NJQfp5IMZ8T-2BscsSsJ8h9hEwUjXfX-2FOY79oCU-2FNryNzb7v12w9ta9vcfOO0aEUjlSkqssR51AxGJaaBjZwAELfujfq4ZUteojh65aVxLh-2F0jlsYO-2BumNCTdt9ENu4DdITq8gXBCaBqNmzXrhG0cd3OSOTft4UbUb-2Ft08K2PwjzrpTrf-2FWLImT-2FZrEZ6m751OQtrp6zeWkg-2B5NUDs7K4wwT6aRDfboMz0EwuHls0v3tXLozUmwiLleui065BMwW-2F7TdfdZb2W7rVU8lndmObBdWl66-2BYO4wV7Q3l77YwPWsR93F-2BwKr12ADz3gewSrwKM2jfLuvRD5KmzINZiRq7V6O6hNrQfuFSJy7W7uri2Egjmf9hUBj2Mcj8Imva100ni2y17Qmts-3DMrlH_hnwZc2KLmru8dsOkeuIQ-2FEiK9TFD-2BUMiC-2BMsXOyLaeRMMXg9GT1PzvyekDfCHj07q3TEZMY4hspNrs6QivTG-2BrwkYgPhAc9C0BnZfrC-2FA88L3aknLchMJB0D63-2FvUo476zjkFNtsTIdrEbV6wsDzwf5ZE1KDUiPebhUDKJz-2B7RvpPtJayz0tH1gOlyoL63SeHXlCV-2BUPy85Mim-2Bp9pSigVtiafGA5MSRy-2FWI29uugDGKvCVpuiVPtzzH6TcKjFym" target="_blank">View</a>&nbsp;EPA’s Story Map for the Mill Creek Response.<a href="http://url6130.epa.mediaroom.com/ls/click?upn=-2BroytcZInNRyuFbAvAoN5YUMS5IFkSiuNOH3EYCbQaZrUpTStiemNhIVgMISS5dR-2BeDNjo9UqqXNlWw1V6bALs9MQQXbQq4fPgZOr-2BPqpns-3DhlPw_hnwZc2KLmru8dsOkeuIQ-2FEiK9TFD-2BUMiC-2BMsXOyLaeRMMXg9GT1PzvyekDfCHj07q3TEZMY4hspNrs6QivTG-2BrwkYgPhAc9C0BnZfrC-2FA8-2BUPssqukULOqIUoPWQr5PtFsHtADjW49ePKZTT3LOzB2ucs8-2BzK3dY542r1sbyUvVfDdnKh4no-2FIIwd8pJB0XvjG5TvKTgrm3KEmR3vkhxkPBNn34YyUZWor1HsWi8eXCyguldOokRk4fP1xwiaVDS" target="_blank">Learn more</a>&nbsp;about EPA’s response operations at Mill Creek.

Cleanup operations at oil leak in north central Kansas creek shift to restoration

ATCHISON - Benedictine College has recognized those students who have distinguished themselves academically during the last semester. 

Lane Werth of Hays&nbsp;was recently named to the Dean's List for the spring semester, which ended May 9, 2023.

Any full-time student carrying a minimum of 12 hours and a perfect 4.0 grade point average through the spring term is named to the President's List. Full time students with 12 hours and a grade point average of 3.5 are named to the Dean's List. Of the 2,234 students on campus for 2022-2023 academic year, 166 made the President's List and 698 made the Dean's List.

Founded in 1858, Benedictine College is a Catholic, Benedictine, residential, liberal arts college located on the bluffs above the Missouri River in Atchison, Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581723078465.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseATCHISON - Benedictine College has recognized those students who have distinguished themselves academically during the last semester. Lane Werth of Hays&nbsp;was recently named to the Dean's List for the spring semester, which ended May 9, 2023.Any full-time student carrying a minimum of 12 hours and a perfect 4.0 grade point average through the spring term is named to the President's List. Full time students with 12 hours and a grade point average of 3.5 are named to the Dean's List. Of the 2,234 students on campus for 2022-2023 academic year, 166 made the President's List and 698 made the Dean's List.Founded in 1858, Benedictine College is a Catholic, Benedictine, residential, liberal arts college located on the bluffs above the Missouri River in Atchison, Kansas.&nbsp;

Hays resident Lane Werth receives academic honor  

<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/2023/6/1685631365544.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

McPHERSON - McPherson College, a four-year private college located in central Kansas, announces the names of students earning degrees and graduating from the college on May 20, 2023. 

HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME, DEGREE, MAJOR, HONORS (if listed) Hays, KS Chase Brous, Bachelor of Arts, English: Licensure&nbsp;&nbsp;

A complete list of graduates and the ceremony is on the college website, <a href="https://www.mcpherson.edu/academics/graduation/">mcpherson.edu/graduation</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685541067103.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>McPHERSON - McPherson College, a four-year private college located in central Kansas, announces the names of students earning degrees and graduating from the college on May 20, 2023. HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME, DEGREE, MAJOR, HONORS (if listed) Hays, KS Chase Brous, Bachelor of Arts, English: Licensure&nbsp;&nbsp; A complete list of graduates and the ceremony is on the college website, <a href="https://www.mcpherson.edu/academics/graduation/">mcpherson.edu/graduation</a>.

Hays resident earn honor as McPherson College graduate

The races for the Victoria and Hays school boards are
shaping up to be extremely competitive this fall with at least 10 candidates vying for four seats on both school boards.

According to the Ellis County Election office, there were 11
people filed for four at-large seats on the USD 432 Victoria school board and 10
people filed to run for four seats on the USD 489 school board by the noon deadline on Thursday, June 1.

The 11 Victoria residents that submitted the necessary paperwork to be on the USD 432 ballot in the fall are Janea Dinkel, Terry
Dinkel, Haley Gagnon, Brenton Hoffman, Jacob Hunter, Douglas A. Kuhn, Tammy
Lichter, Matthew K. Orr, Morgan Pfeifer, Gregory Sander and Tammy Lee Schumacher.

In the USD 489 Hays school district race, there are 10 Hays
residents who will be on the ballot in the November General Election.

They are David Clingan, James Feyerherm, Jayme Goetz, Lori
Hertel, Craig Pallister, Allen Park, Ruth A. Ruder, Duff Watson, Dennis Wilkie
and Derek Yarmer.

Despite a large number of candidates, there were not enough candidates to
force a primary election in either race. All of the candidates will show up on the General
Election ballot on Nov. 7.

In Ellis there were five residents who filed for four seats
on the USD 388 school board. They are Cindy Hertel, Aaron Honas, Marty Hollern,
Stephanie Johnson and Brian J. Shannon.

Randall S. Honas was the only candidate to file for the one
unexpired term on the Ellis school board.

In the race for the Ellis City Council, four people filed in
the race for three open seats. They are Devin D. Henderson, Brady A. Richards, John
A. Walz and Terry G. Zerfas.

David R. McDaniel was the only candidate to file for Ellis mayor and Faith Scheck for Ellis treasurer.

In Hays there are two four-year and one two-year term up for
election on the Hays City Commission. There will be five people on the ballot
for those three positions. They are Kelly Ancar, Reese E. Barrick, Alaina
Cunningham, Diana F. Pantle and Mason Ruder.

Kevin Bieker is the only candidate vying for the Schoenchen mayor, and Frederick H Follmer and Kyle Zimmerman were the only two candidates to
file for Schoenchen City Council. There are five positions up for election on
the council.

John Schulte was the only person to file for Victoria mayor, and Joe Leroux for Victoria City Council. There are two positions open on
the city council.

The November General Election also features races for the improvement
districts and Cottonwood Extension District.

You can find a list of those candidates below and you can
find a complete list of candidates <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/4937/2023-Candidate-Filings">HERE</a>.

Big Creek Improvement District - 3 Director positions&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Casey F Herrman Duane Kuhn Larry D
Leiker Keith
Schmidt Duff Watson

Munjor Improvement District - 3 Director positions&nbsp;

Prairie Acres Improvement District - 3 Director positions&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Shane Gregg Kevin
Zimmer William T
Wierman

Suburban Estates Improvement District - 3 Director positions&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cottonwood Extension District #17 - 2 board positions&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Diana F Pantle Allen P Roth Tatum
Sprague-Kinzey

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685650059944.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostThe races for the Victoria and Hays school boards are
shaping up to be extremely competitive this fall with at least 10 candidates vying for four seats on both school boards.According to the Ellis County Election office, there were 11
people filed for four at-large seats on the USD 432 Victoria school board and 10
people filed to run for four seats on the USD 489 school board by the noon deadline on Thursday, June 1.The 11 Victoria residents that submitted the necessary paperwork to be on the USD 432 ballot in the fall are Janea Dinkel, Terry
Dinkel, Haley Gagnon, Brenton Hoffman, Jacob Hunter, Douglas A. Kuhn, Tammy
Lichter, Matthew K. Orr, Morgan Pfeifer, Gregory Sander and Tammy Lee Schumacher.In the USD 489 Hays school district race, there are 10 Hays
residents who will be on the ballot in the November General Election.They are David Clingan, James Feyerherm, Jayme Goetz, Lori
Hertel, Craig Pallister, Allen Park, Ruth A. Ruder, Duff Watson, Dennis Wilkie
and Derek Yarmer.Despite a large number of candidates, there were not enough candidates to
force a primary election in either race. All of the candidates will show up on the General
Election ballot on Nov. 7.In Ellis there were five residents who filed for four seats
on the USD 388 school board. They are Cindy Hertel, Aaron Honas, Marty Hollern,
Stephanie Johnson and Brian J. Shannon.Randall S. Honas was the only candidate to file for the one
unexpired term on the Ellis school board.In the race for the Ellis City Council, four people filed in
the race for three open seats. They are Devin D. Henderson, Brady A. Richards, John
A. Walz and Terry G. Zerfas.David R. McDaniel was the only candidate to file for Ellis mayor and Faith Scheck for Ellis treasurer.In Hays there are two four-year and one two-year term up for
election on the Hays City Commission. There will be five people on the ballot
for those three positions. They are Kelly Ancar, Reese E. Barrick, Alaina
Cunningham, Diana F. Pantle and Mason Ruder.Kevin Bieker is the only candidate vying for the Schoenchen mayor, and Frederick H Follmer and Kyle Zimmerman were the only two candidates to
file for Schoenchen City Council. There are five positions up for election on
the council.John Schulte was the only person to file for Victoria mayor, and Joe Leroux for Victoria City Council. There are two positions open on
the city council.The November General Election also features races for the improvement
districts and Cottonwood Extension District.You can find a list of those candidates below and you can
find a complete list of candidates <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/DocumentCenter/View/4937/2023-Candidate-Filings">HERE</a>.Big Creek Improvement District - 3 Director positions&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Casey F Herrman Duane Kuhn Larry D
Leiker Keith
Schmidt Duff WatsonMunjor Improvement District - 3 Director positions&nbsp; Prairie Acres Improvement District - 3 Director positions&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Shane Gregg Kevin
Zimmer William T
WiermanSuburban Estates Improvement District - 3 Director positions&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cottonwood Extension District #17 - 2 board positions&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Diana F Pantle Allen P Roth Tatum
Sprague-Kinzey

 Crowded field of candidates vying for Hays, Victoria school boards in fall

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for the city of Portis public water supply system located in Osborne County.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on June 1 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment&nbsp; announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 758-346-4020, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MDEuNzc1OTQ5MDEifQ.B4Ox2cO-OgyLfXAl2KuP2cI04JJzv0qCuRI50Wg4_O4/s/1305913623/br/204088737988-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption.</a>

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov" target="_blank">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for the city of Portis public water supply system located in Osborne County.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.</li><li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on June 1 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment&nbsp; announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 758-346-4020, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MDEuNzc1OTQ5MDEifQ.B4Ox2cO-OgyLfXAl2KuP2cI04JJzv0qCuRI50Wg4_O4/s/1305913623/br/204088737988-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption.</a>Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov" target="_blank">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

Boil water advisory Issued for the city of Portis, Osborne County

GOP senator urges federal agency to stay focused on broadband service

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran urged the U.S. Department of Commerce to rely on accurate data to target federal funding at Kansas’ last-place ranking on average internet download speed.

The Kansas Republican said improving the state’s access to high-quality broadband would benefit up to 1 million Kansans, especially rural residents, who live without access to the kind of digital connections important for personal business, education and health.

Moran said in a letter to Gina Raimondo, secretary of the U.S. commerce department, a recent broadband quality study indicated Kansas was last in terms of average download speed and trailed by wide margins speeds available in Colorado, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Missouri.

<a target="_blank" href="https://broadbandnow.com/research/best-states-with-internet-coverage-and-speed">Kansas ranked 51st among all states and the District of Columbia in download speed</a>, which was among key determinants of quality broadband delivery.

It was important to Kansans, the senator said, because data-intensive consumer and business internet applications were undermined by mediocre download speeds.

“That means many Kansans will be poorer, sicker and less educated than their peers that have access to high-quality broadband,” Moran said. “A lot of work has been done to improve broadband in Kansas, but it is clear there is plenty of work left to do.”

Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly has emphasized broadband expansion in Kansas by targeting state and federal investments to improve connectivity. In early May, she directed $30 million in&nbsp;competitive funding through the Lasting Infrastructure and Network Connectivity program to add infrastructure useful for homes and businesses. 

That goal of LINK was to reduce the cost of internet service, increase its availability and improve performance for users. Eligible entities include internet service providers, political subdivisions, tribal governments, cooperatives and non-profit organizations.

“Many have shared their frustration about a lack of access to high-speed internet that is crucial to remote work and precision agriculture, among other needs,” said Jade Piros de Carvalho, the state’s broadband development director.

In Moran’s letter to the U.S. commerce secretary, he recommended the federal government rely on accurate state-by-state data to allocate resources through the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program.

The senator suggested the federal commerce department avoid subsidizing the overbuilding of broadband services developed by private companies and to maximize broadband provider participation by restraining regulatory burdens.

“Collectively,” Moran said, “these steps will help ensure the program avoids the missteps of prior broadband deployment programs and is successful in bridging the digital divide.”

<h2>GOP senator urges federal agency to stay focused on broadband service</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685636613195.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican, urged the U.S. Department of Commerce to stay focused on funding broadband service improvements in Kansas, which ranked 51st nationally in terms of average download speed. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican, urged the U.S. Department of Commerce to stay focused on funding broadband service improvements in Kansas, which ranked 51st nationally in terms of average download speed. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a> TOPEKA — U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran urged the U.S. Department of Commerce to rely on accurate data to target federal funding at Kansas’ last-place ranking on average internet download speed.The Kansas Republican said improving the state’s access to high-quality broadband would benefit up to 1 million Kansans, especially rural residents, who live without access to the kind of digital connections important for personal business, education and health.Moran said in a letter to Gina Raimondo, secretary of the U.S. commerce department, a recent broadband quality study indicated Kansas was last in terms of average download speed and trailed by wide margins speeds available in Colorado, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Missouri.<a target="_blank" href="https://broadbandnow.com/research/best-states-with-internet-coverage-and-speed">Kansas ranked 51st among all states and the District of Columbia in download speed</a>, which was among key determinants of quality broadband delivery.It was important to Kansans, the senator said, because data-intensive consumer and business internet applications were undermined by mediocre download speeds.“That means many Kansans will be poorer, sicker and less educated than their peers that have access to high-quality broadband,” Moran said. “A lot of work has been done to improve broadband in Kansas, but it is clear there is plenty of work left to do.”Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly has emphasized broadband expansion in Kansas by targeting state and federal investments to improve connectivity. In early May, she directed $30 million in&nbsp;competitive funding through the Lasting Infrastructure and Network Connectivity program to add infrastructure useful for homes and businesses. That goal of LINK was to reduce the cost of internet service, increase its availability and improve performance for users. Eligible entities include internet service providers, political subdivisions, tribal governments, cooperatives and non-profit organizations.“Many have shared their frustration about a lack of access to high-speed internet that is crucial to remote work and precision agriculture, among other needs,” said Jade Piros de Carvalho, the state’s broadband development director.In Moran’s letter to the U.S. commerce secretary, he recommended the federal government rely on accurate state-by-state data to allocate resources through the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program.The senator suggested the federal commerce department avoid subsidizing the overbuilding of broadband services developed by private companies and to maximize broadband provider participation by restraining regulatory burdens.“Collectively,” Moran said, “these steps will help ensure the program avoids the missteps of prior broadband deployment programs and is successful in bridging the digital divide.”

U.S. Sen. Moran upset with Kansas’ last place score for internet download speed

WASHINGTON, D.C. - When a company makes a promise, you expect them to keep their word, right? According to the Federal Trade Commission, Amazon promised to delete children’s personal information and Alexa users’ voice and geolocation information but broke the law instead. In an announcement Wednesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/05/ftc-doj-charge-amazon-violating-childrens-privacy-law-keeping-kids-alexa-voice-recordings-forever">the FTC and the Department of Justice said Amazon violated children’s privacy law</a>&nbsp;by keeping kids’ Alexa voice recordings forever to feed its voice-related algorithms.

Amazon promised parents they could “manage their content and devices” and delete their children’s voice recordings, but according to the FTC, the company didn’t always fulfill parents’ deletion requests, kept children’s sensitive voice data indefinitely, and put people’s data at risk of harm from unnecessary access. The FTC says Amazon also failed to fulfill Alexa users’ requests to delete their voice and geolocation information. Instead, Amazon kept using that information for their algorithms.

The proposed order would, among other things, require Amazon to pay $25 million, change its deletion practices, and implement strong privacy safeguards.

This case — like&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2023/05/rings-privacy-failures-led-spying-and-harassment-though-home-security-cameras">the Ring case</a>&nbsp;— shows that the FTC continues to take action against companies that don’t safeguard people’s personal information, especially when it comes to sensitive biometric data, like voices or videos (as in the Ring case).

Here are some steps to take to protect your family’s personal information:

Learn more about protecting your privacy online and on apps at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/protecting-your-privacy-online">ftc.gov/yourprivacy</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685627776148.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Federal Trade CommissionWASHINGTON, D.C. - When a company makes a promise, you expect them to keep their word, right? According to the Federal Trade Commission, Amazon promised to delete children’s personal information and Alexa users’ voice and geolocation information but broke the law instead. In an announcement Wednesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/05/ftc-doj-charge-amazon-violating-childrens-privacy-law-keeping-kids-alexa-voice-recordings-forever">the FTC and the Department of Justice said Amazon violated children’s privacy law</a>&nbsp;by keeping kids’ Alexa voice recordings forever to feed its voice-related algorithms.Amazon promised parents they could “manage their content and devices” and delete their children’s voice recordings, but according to the FTC, the company didn’t always fulfill parents’ deletion requests, kept children’s sensitive voice data indefinitely, and put people’s data at risk of harm from unnecessary access. The FTC says Amazon also failed to fulfill Alexa users’ requests to delete their voice and geolocation information. Instead, Amazon kept using that information for their algorithms.The proposed order would, among other things, require Amazon to pay $25 million, change its deletion practices, and implement strong privacy safeguards.This case — like&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2023/05/rings-privacy-failures-led-spying-and-harassment-though-home-security-cameras">the Ring case</a>&nbsp;— shows that the FTC continues to take action against companies that don’t safeguard people’s personal information, especially when it comes to sensitive biometric data, like voices or videos (as in the Ring case).Here are some steps to take to protect your family’s personal information:<ul>
 <li>Learn&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/protecting-your-childs-privacy-online#choices">how to protect your kids’ privacy</a>.&nbsp;As a parent, you have control over the personal information companies collect online from your kids under 13.&nbsp;Any site attempting to collect personal information from your child has to get your consent, and it has to honor your choices about how that information is used.</li><li>Find out if you have the right to tell a company to delete your data.&nbsp;Some state laws give you that right. Learn more at the&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/now-leaving?external_url=https%3A%2F%2Fiapp.org%2Fresources%2Farticle%2Fus-state-privacy-legislation-tracker%2F&amp;back_url=https%3A%2F%2Fconsumer.ftc.gov%2Fconsumer-alerts%2F2023%2F02%2Fgoodrxs-not-so-good-privacy-practices-come-light">U.S. State Privacy Legislation Tracker</a>&nbsp;from the International Association of Privacy Professionals.</li><li>Check if you can customize your privacy settings.&nbsp;If a device or an app doesn’t need the info it collects, such as your location, turn off that feature. If the device or app does need it, consider limiting access to only when the device or app is in use.</li>
 </ul>Learn more about protecting your privacy online and on apps at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/protecting-your-privacy-online">ftc.gov/yourprivacy</a>.

FTC: Amazon didn’t protect Alexa users’ or children’s privacy

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

You can help support the mission of the United Way of Ellis County while having fun on the golf course on June 16.

The United Way formerly had the event during Octoberfest but changed the dates to allow more people to participate, Erica Berges, United Way executive director, said.

The United Way is accepting entries for its annual golf tournament at the Smoky Hill Country Club now <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">online</a>.

The cost for the tournament is $500 for a team of four. Golf cart reservations are included in the cost. Lunch will be provided, as well as opportunities to play hole games and participate in raffles.

The United Way also is still accepting sponsors for the tournament. This  also can be done online or you can print and deliver the sponsorship form to the United Way office in the Chestnut Building, 1200 Main, Suite 102. Sponsorships start at $200.

Proceeds from the tournament will support the agency's 13 partner agencies.

The United Way's annual campaign will kick off in August, but the non-profit accepts donations year-round.

The agency is celebrating 70 years in Ellis County. Berges said the agency hopes to have some special events celebrating the anniversary this fall.

Berges said the fundraising goal this year will be likely the same as last year, $370,000.

<a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">You can donate online on the agency's website.</a>&nbsp;A round-up option is included. Donors can opt to round up purchases on debit or credit cards to the nearest dollar with the change going to the United Way. Donors can set monthly limits on these donations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685550233205.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostYou can help support the mission of the United Way of Ellis County while having fun on the golf course on June 16.The United Way formerly had the event during Octoberfest but changed the dates to allow more people to participate, Erica Berges, United Way executive director, said.The United Way is accepting entries for its annual golf tournament at the Smoky Hill Country Club now <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">online</a>.The cost for the tournament is $500 for a team of four. Golf cart reservations are included in the cost. Lunch will be provided, as well as opportunities to play hole games and participate in raffles.The United Way also is still accepting sponsors for the tournament. This also can be done online or you can print and deliver the sponsorship form to the United Way office in the Chestnut Building, 1200 Main, Suite 102. Sponsorships start at $200.Proceeds from the tournament will support the agency's 13 partner agencies.The United Way's annual campaign will kick off in August, but the non-profit accepts donations year-round.The agency is celebrating 70 years in Ellis County. Berges said the agency hopes to have some special events celebrating the anniversary this fall.Berges said the fundraising goal this year will be likely the same as last year, $370,000.<a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">You can donate online on the agency's website.</a>&nbsp;A round-up option is included. Donors can opt to round up purchases on debit or credit cards to the nearest dollar with the change going to the United Way. Donors can set monthly limits on these donations.Cover photo provided by Pixabay.

Ellis County United Way Golf Tournament set for June 16; sign up now

Four Republicans sidestepping yes-or-no decisions on key education issues

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas State Board of Education member Michelle Dombrosky abstained rather than cast yes-or-no votes on amendments to teacher licensure requirements, high school graduation standards and a popular program allowing high school students to earn college credit.

Dombrosky, an Olathe Republican who represents 10 school districts in Johnson, Miami and Franklin counties, also declined three times since January to take a position on allocation to local school districts of federal COVID-19 relief funding.

During the initial four months of this year, GOP state Board of Education members Cathy Hopkins of Hays, Dennis Hershberger of Hutchinson and Danny Zeck of Leavenworth abstained at least twice on key policy decisions. Dombrosky took that approach at least six times in that period.

Mark Ferguson, legal counsel to the state Board of Education since 2009, said the flurry of abstentions could be consequential because the tactic might be used to undermine a requirement the state board register at least six votes among the 10 members to take formal action on a motion or resolution.

In February, changes to the state’s teacher licensure requirements were passed with a bipartisan majority on a vote of 6-0-4 as four Republicans abstained.

“My conclusion is an abstention is not really the appropriate vote for a board member who is simply in opposition to a position or a board action,” Ferguson said. “I would go out a little further and say that an abstention — a nonvote — is an abdication of the responsibility to vote or to take a position on a particular issue.”

Ferguson recommended the state Board of Education adopt policy to clarify that an abstention would be recorded as a “no” vote. He said a board committee had engaged in preliminary discussions about policy changes.

The board’s attorney also said abstentions should be reserved for members who decided they had a personal, employment or economic conflict of interest and wanted to be released from a specific debate or decision. Under Kansas law, local school board members with a conflict of interest were allowed to step away from the meeting until conclusion of voting on the issue.

He said questions about abstentions became more prominent after election in 2022 of Republican newcomers Hopkins, Hershberger and Zeck. Each started four-year terms in January.

While Dombrosky led the group with six abstentions on significant final-action votes from January through April, Zeck did so three times and Hopkins and Hershberger did so twice each. These board members also cast abstentions in preliminary votes.

State Board of Education members requested a legal analysis of abstentions as it related to the elected body serving interests of K-12 education statewide, Ferguson said.

“It has been something that has gained some momentum and traction each month that we’ve had new board members,” he said.

Ferguson said there was no obligation for board members to explain votes for or against a measure, which would mirror the process deployed by the Kansas Legislature.

Members of the House and Senate were allowed to publicly declare a conflict of interest and step away from participation in a specific vote. Or, a conflict of interest could be cured by a lawmaker through public disclosure and that individual could choose to vote with colleagues.

The incentive of Republicans to abstain on key education policy and budget votes might be removed in November 2024 when the state Board of Education’s three Democrats and two of the seven Republicans were up for reelection. The board’s majority could shift to the right in January 2025.

The upcoming election cycle would determine the future of Democrats Ann Mah of Topeka, Melanie Haas of Overland Park and Betty Arnold of Wichita as well as GOP members Deena Horst of Salina and Jim McNiece of Wichita.

<h2>Four Republicans sidestepping yes-or-no decisions on key education issues</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas State Board of Education member Michelle Dombrosky abstained rather than cast yes-or-no votes on amendments to teacher licensure requirements, high school graduation standards and a popular program allowing high school students to earn college credit.Dombrosky, an Olathe Republican who represents 10 school districts in Johnson, Miami and Franklin counties, also declined three times since January to take a position on allocation to local school districts of federal COVID-19 relief funding.During the initial four months of this year, GOP state Board of Education members Cathy Hopkins of Hays, Dennis Hershberger of Hutchinson and Danny Zeck of Leavenworth abstained at least twice on key policy decisions. Dombrosky took that approach at least six times in that period.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659626439586.png" alt="Cathy Hopkins, member of the Kansas Board of Education from Hays" />
 <figcaption>Cathy Hopkins, member of the Kansas Board of Education from Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Mark Ferguson, legal counsel to the state Board of Education since 2009, said the flurry of abstentions could be consequential because the tactic might be used to undermine a requirement the state board register at least six votes among the 10 members to take formal action on a motion or resolution.In February, changes to the state’s teacher licensure requirements were passed with a bipartisan majority on a vote of 6-0-4 as four Republicans abstained.“My conclusion is an abstention is not really the appropriate vote for a board member who is simply in opposition to a position or a board action,” Ferguson said. “I would go out a little further and say that an abstention — a nonvote — is an abdication of the responsibility to vote or to take a position on a particular issue.”Ferguson recommended the state Board of Education adopt policy to clarify that an abstention would be recorded as a “no” vote. He said a board committee had engaged in preliminary discussions about policy changes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685563865690.jpeg" alt="The decision of Michelle Dombrosky, an Olathe Republican on the Kansas State Board of Education, to abstain on major policy issues prompted the state board’s attorney to urge policy revisions to affirm abstentions should be reserved for members with conflicts of interest rather than used as an alternative to registering dissent. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The decision of Michelle Dombrosky, an Olathe Republican on the Kansas State Board of Education, to abstain on major policy issues prompted the state board’s attorney to urge policy revisions to affirm abstentions should be reserved for members with conflicts of interest rather than used as an alternative to registering dissent. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>The board’s attorney also said abstentions should be reserved for members who decided they had a personal, employment or economic conflict of interest and wanted to be released from a specific debate or decision. Under Kansas law, local school board members with a conflict of interest were allowed to step away from the meeting until conclusion of voting on the issue.He said questions about abstentions became more prominent after election in 2022 of Republican newcomers Hopkins, Hershberger and Zeck. Each started four-year terms in January.While Dombrosky led the group with six abstentions on significant final-action votes from January through April, Zeck did so three times and Hopkins and Hershberger did so twice each. These board members also cast abstentions in preliminary votes.State Board of Education members requested a legal analysis of abstentions as it related to the elected body serving interests of K-12 education statewide, Ferguson said.“It has been something that has gained some momentum and traction each month that we’ve had new board members,” he said.Ferguson said there was no obligation for board members to explain votes for or against a measure, which would mirror the process deployed by the Kansas Legislature.Members of the House and Senate were allowed to publicly declare a conflict of interest and step away from participation in a specific vote. Or, a conflict of interest could be cured by a lawmaker through public disclosure and that individual could choose to vote with colleagues.The incentive of Republicans to abstain on key education policy and budget votes might be removed in November 2024 when the state Board of Education’s three Democrats and two of the seven Republicans were up for reelection. The board’s majority could shift to the right in January 2025.The upcoming election cycle would determine the future of Democrats Ann Mah of Topeka, Melanie Haas of Overland Park and Betty Arnold of Wichita as well as GOP members Deena Horst of Salina and Jim McNiece of Wichita.

Kansas ed board’s attorney says Hays' Hopkins' abstention as substitute for ‘no’ vote an abdication of duty

By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension District

I have a special guest to introduce this week! Camille Dolechek will be working as our Summer Program Assistant this year and we’ll tell you a little about her.

She is excited to intern with Cottonwood Extension Office as a summer program assistant this summer. Camille is a Hoisington native from a farming and ranching family. She is currently attending Kansas State University studying Elementary Education.

Camille is looking forward to assisting with the Barton County Fair, day camps, and working with agents. Growing up, she participated in 4-H, and 4-H is a fantastic program to learn life skills. She also looks forward to seeing the 4-H participants show their animals and arts and crafts this summer!

We are excited to have Camille on-board this summer and hope to let her experience all areas of Extension work. She has jumped in to assist in the office and is helping at a Day Camp the 4-H Junior Leaders are holding on Wednesday. Extension is all about learning experiences and we appreciate the ability to provide to our summer assistants with experiences as much as the communities we serve. Be sure to look for Camille at Extension events and the Barton County Fair this summer!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran&nbsp;is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;(Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran&nbsp;is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;(Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHELLE BERAN Cottonwood Extension District I have a special guest to introduce this week! Camille Dolechek will be working as our Summer Program Assistant this year and we’ll tell you a little about her.She is excited to intern with Cottonwood Extension Office as a summer program assistant this summer. Camille is a Hoisington native from a farming and ranching family. She is currently attending Kansas State University studying Elementary Education.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685104881742.jpeg" alt="Camille Dolechek (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Camille Dolechek (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Camille is looking forward to assisting with the Barton County Fair, day camps, and working with agents. Growing up, she participated in 4-H, and 4-H is a fantastic program to learn life skills. She also looks forward to seeing the 4-H participants show their animals and arts and crafts this summer!We are excited to have Camille on-board this summer and hope to let her experience all areas of Extension work. She has jumped in to assist in the office and is helping at a Day Camp the 4-H Junior Leaders are holding on Wednesday. Extension is all about learning experiences and we appreciate the ability to provide to our summer assistants with experiences as much as the communities we serve. Be sure to look for Camille at Extension events and the Barton County Fair this summer!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Meet our summer program assistant

TOPEKA&nbsp;–The State Library of Kansas is proud to announce the 2023 Kansas Notable Books list. This year’s list of Kansas Notable Books continues the tradition of celebrating the rich stories and vibrant spirit of the state.

“The authors of the 2023 Kansas Notable Books not only help us gain a deeper understanding of our world, but also encourage empathy for others and reflection on our own life experiences,” State Librarian Ray C. Walling said. “Written by Kansans or about Kansas and Kansans, these fifteen books explore wanderlust, transformative collaboration, hidden struggles, inspiring resilience, and the power of love.”

Authors will be recognized and awarded medals by the State Librarian at the Kansas Book Festival on September 16 at Washburn University. The Book Festival is a free event that is open to the public. For more information on the event, visit <a href="https://www.kansasbookfestival.com/">kansasbookfestival.com</a>.

The selection process for the Kansas Notable Books involved a rigorous evaluation by a selection committee made up of librarians, educators, and literary professionals. Their task was to identify books that exemplify quality writing, compelling storytelling, and significant contributions to the literary landscape. This year's list features a wide range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and children's literature, ensuring there is something for every reader.

A program of the Kansas Center for the Book, an affiliate of the Library of Congress Center for the Book, Kansas Notable Books works to foster a love for reading by promoting these exceptional works across the state. Public libraries, schools, and bookstores feature the Kansas Notable Books prominently and organize events that engage readers and highlight the authors' accomplishments. An annual grant program administrated by the State Library supports Kansas public libraries adding Notable Books titles to their collections in formats best suited to their patrons. Applications will be released mid-June.

For more information about the Kansas Notable Books program, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9rc2xpYi5pbmZvL25vdGFibGVib29rcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA1MzAuNzc0NTE0NzEifQ.nMEKfcMmpSf5FiGk1AG9olRJHNXhKW0WrwM_l67Di58/s/1303161001/br/203891368201-l" target="_blank">kslib.info/notablebooks</a>&nbsp;or contact the State Library of Kansas at 785-296-3296 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a>.&nbsp;

* Cabby Potts, Duchess of Dirt by Kathleen Wilford, Blue Bronco Books

* Easy Beauty: A Memoir by Chloe Cooper Jones, Simon &amp; Schuster

* Hell's Half-Acre: The Untold Story of the Benders by Susan Jonusas, Viking

* Justa’s Escape: A Journey from WWII Ukraine by Justina Neufeld with Russell Binkley, Wipf and Stock

* Kansas Speaks Out: Poems in the Age of Me, Too edited by Dennis Etzel, Jr and Jericho Hockett, An Actual Kansas Press

* Letters to Martin: Meditations on Democracy by Randal Maurice Jelks, Lawrence Hill Books

* The Monster’s Bones: The Discovery of T. Rex and How It Shook Our World by David K. Randall, W. W. Norton &amp; Company

* Native American Stories for Kids: 12 Traditional Stories from Indigenous Tribes Across North America by Tom Pecore Weso, Rockridge Press

* A New Guide to Kansas Mushrooms by Sherry Kay, Benjamin Sikes, and Caleb Morse, University Press of Kansas

* Nothing but the Dirt: Stories from an American Farm Town by Kate Benz, University Press of Kansas

* One Boy Watching by Grant Snider, Chronicle Books

* River of the Gods: Genius, Courage, and Betrayal in the Search for the Source of the Nile by Candice Millard, Doubleday

* The Undead Truth of Us by Britney S. Lewis, Hyperion

* The Vagabond's Way: 366 Meditations on Wanderlust, Discovery, and the Art of Travel by Rolf Potts, Random House

* Winfield's Walnut Valley Festival by Seth Bate, The History Press

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685548581676.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseTOPEKA&nbsp;–The State Library of Kansas is proud to announce the 2023 Kansas Notable Books list. This year’s list of Kansas Notable Books continues the tradition of celebrating the rich stories and vibrant spirit of the state.“The authors of the 2023 Kansas Notable Books not only help us gain a deeper understanding of our world, but also encourage empathy for others and reflection on our own life experiences,” State Librarian Ray C. Walling said. “Written by Kansans or about Kansas and Kansans, these fifteen books explore wanderlust, transformative collaboration, hidden struggles, inspiring resilience, and the power of love.”Authors will be recognized and awarded medals by the State Librarian at the Kansas Book Festival on September 16 at Washburn University. The Book Festival is a free event that is open to the public. For more information on the event, visit <a href="https://www.kansasbookfestival.com/">kansasbookfestival.com</a>.The selection process for the Kansas Notable Books involved a rigorous evaluation by a selection committee made up of librarians, educators, and literary professionals. Their task was to identify books that exemplify quality writing, compelling storytelling, and significant contributions to the literary landscape. This year's list features a wide range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and children's literature, ensuring there is something for every reader.A program of the Kansas Center for the Book, an affiliate of the Library of Congress Center for the Book, Kansas Notable Books works to foster a love for reading by promoting these exceptional works across the state. Public libraries, schools, and bookstores feature the Kansas Notable Books prominently and organize events that engage readers and highlight the authors' accomplishments. An annual grant program administrated by the State Library supports Kansas public libraries adding Notable Books titles to their collections in formats best suited to their patrons. Applications will be released mid-June.For more information about the Kansas Notable Books program, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9rc2xpYi5pbmZvL25vdGFibGVib29rcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA1MzAuNzc0NTE0NzEifQ.nMEKfcMmpSf5FiGk1AG9olRJHNXhKW0WrwM_l67Di58/s/1303161001/br/203891368201-l" target="_blank">kslib.info/notablebooks</a>&nbsp;or contact the State Library of Kansas at 785-296-3296 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a>.&nbsp;2023 KANSAS NOTABLE BOOKS* Cabby Potts, Duchess of Dirt by Kathleen Wilford, Blue Bronco Books* Easy Beauty: A Memoir by Chloe Cooper Jones, Simon &amp; Schuster* Hell's Half-Acre: The Untold Story of the Benders by Susan Jonusas, Viking* Justa’s Escape: A Journey from WWII Ukraine by Justina Neufeld with Russell Binkley, Wipf and Stock* Kansas Speaks Out: Poems in the Age of Me, Too edited by Dennis Etzel, Jr and Jericho Hockett, An Actual Kansas Press* Letters to Martin: Meditations on Democracy by Randal Maurice Jelks, Lawrence Hill Books* The Monster’s Bones: The Discovery of T. Rex and How It Shook Our World by David K. Randall, W. W. Norton &amp; Company* Native American Stories for Kids: 12 Traditional Stories from Indigenous Tribes Across North America by Tom Pecore Weso, Rockridge Press* A New Guide to Kansas Mushrooms by Sherry Kay, Benjamin Sikes, and Caleb Morse, University Press of Kansas* Nothing but the Dirt: Stories from an American Farm Town by Kate Benz, University Press of Kansas* One Boy Watching by Grant Snider, Chronicle Books* River of the Gods: Genius, Courage, and Betrayal in the Search for the Source of the Nile by Candice Millard, Doubleday* The Undead Truth of Us by Britney S. Lewis, Hyperion* The Vagabond's Way: 366 Meditations on Wanderlust, Discovery, and the Art of Travel by Rolf Potts, Random House* Winfield's Walnut Valley Festival by Seth Bate, The History Press

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