The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin work on a resurfacing project on approximately 9 miles of I-70 in northwest Kansas this week.

Project activity includes a mill and overlay on the westbound and eastbound driving lanes and eastbound shoulder starting near Edson in Sherman County and ending at Brewster in Thomas County.

During construction, I-70 traffic will be reduced to one lane through the work zone with a decreased speed limit. Minor delays not exceeding 5 minutes should be anticipated. KDOT expects work to be completed by mid-July, weather permitting.

APAC Kansas Inc., Shears Division, of Hutchinson is the primary contractor for the project with a total contract cost of approximately $4.9 million.&nbsp;

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin work on a resurfacing project on approximately 9 miles of I-70 in northwest Kansas this week.Project activity includes a mill and overlay on the westbound and eastbound driving lanes and eastbound shoulder starting near Edson in Sherman County and ending at Brewster in Thomas County.During construction, I-70 traffic will be reduced to one lane through the work zone with a decreased speed limit. Minor delays not exceeding 5 minutes should be anticipated. KDOT expects work to be completed by mid-July, weather permitting.APAC Kansas Inc., Shears Division, of Hutchinson is the primary contractor for the project with a total contract cost of approximately $4.9 million.&nbsp;

Section of I-70 to be resurfaced in northwest Kansas

PFEIFER — Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer will host a memorial celebration on Saturday, May 28, beginning at 3 p.m. when Bishop Jerry Vincke will conduct a memorial service at the cemetery. &nbsp;

The Victoria VFW Honor Guard will present arms. &nbsp;Mass will be celebrated at 4:00.&nbsp;Music will be provided by Trilogy. Picnic lunch at 6:00; Tim Jacobs, musician, followed by the Adam Capps Band at 7:00; veteran’s tribute at intermission. Bring a lawn chair.

There will be a 50/50 raffle and an auction. All funds raised go towards maintenance of Holy Cross Church.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584006647697.jpeg" alt="Vincke" />
 <figcaption>Vincke</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedPFEIFER — Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer will host a memorial celebration on Saturday, May 28, beginning at 3 p.m. when Bishop Jerry Vincke will conduct a memorial service at the cemetery. &nbsp;The Victoria VFW Honor Guard will present arms. &nbsp;Mass will be celebrated at 4:00.&nbsp;Music will be provided by Trilogy. Picnic lunch at 6:00; Tim Jacobs, musician, followed by the Adam Capps Band at 7:00; veteran’s tribute at intermission. Bring a lawn chair.There will be a 50/50 raffle and an auction. All funds raised go towards maintenance of Holy Cross Church.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bishop will lead Pfeifer memorial celebration

Renowned artist Kim Casebeer is offering an oil/pastel landscape painting workshop in Hays on June 2-4, 2022. The workshop will be at the Sternberg Museum. At the end of the second day of the workshop, there will be a public open house on Friday, June 3, from 4-6pm. This will be an opportunity for the public to come see fine art in the making by viewing the works in progress. Visitors can visit with the workshop participants and enjoy refreshments. There will also be more information about the Western Plains Painters,&nbsp;sponsors of the workshop.

See details about the workshop:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kimcasebeer.com/workshop/24059/taking-work-from-ok-to-wow-studio">https://www.kimcasebeer.com/workshop/24059/taking-work-from-ok-to-wow-studio</a> See more about the artist:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kimcasebeer.com/about">https://www.kimcasebeer.com/about</a> WPP is off-setting a portion of the workshop fee through the use of our club funds.

To register for the workshop, artists may contact the club president Cindy Balthazor at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cindybalthazor@gmail.com">cindybalthazor@gmail.com</a>. Or call or text her at 785-737-3510.

The Western Plains Painters, formerly known as the Palco Art Club, has a mission to support, inspire and enhance the skills of artistic painters. They encourage continued growth of painters by providing painting venues, mentorship, quality art instruction, inspirational workshops and other creative events and activities. The club has been in existence for well over 40 years, helping oil, acrylic, pastel and watercolor painters grow in their skills. Over those years, they have painted together, helped critique, mentor and inspire each other, hosted workshops, and individually grown as fine artists.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652907445427.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Renowned artist Kim Casebeer is offering an oil/pastel landscape painting workshop in Hays on June 2-4, 2022. The workshop will be at the Sternberg Museum. At the end of the second day of the workshop, there will be a public open house on Friday, June 3, from 4-6pm. This will be an opportunity for the public to come see fine art in the making by viewing the works in progress. Visitors can visit with the workshop participants and enjoy refreshments. There will also be more information about the Western Plains Painters,&nbsp;sponsors of the workshop.See details about the workshop:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kimcasebeer.com/workshop/24059/taking-work-from-ok-to-wow-studio">https://www.kimcasebeer.com/workshop/24059/taking-work-from-ok-to-wow-studio</a> See more about the artist:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kimcasebeer.com/about">https://www.kimcasebeer.com/about</a> WPP is off-setting a portion of the workshop fee through the use of our club funds.To register for the workshop, artists may contact the club president Cindy Balthazor at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cindybalthazor@gmail.com">cindybalthazor@gmail.com</a>. Or call or text her at 785-737-3510.The Western Plains Painters, formerly known as the Palco Art Club, has a mission to support, inspire and enhance the skills of artistic painters. They encourage continued growth of painters by providing painting venues, mentorship, quality art instruction, inspirational workshops and other creative events and activities. The club has been in existence for well over 40 years, helping oil, acrylic, pastel and watercolor painters grow in their skills. Over those years, they have painted together, helped critique, mentor and inspire each other, hosted workshops, and individually grown as fine artists. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652907478971.png" alt="Oil painting by Kim Casebeer" />
 <figcaption>Oil painting by Kim Casebeer</figcaption>
 </figure>

Oil/pastel painting workshop scheduled in Hays

<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/2022/5/1653331691323.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

Don't let your athlete miss out on a great week of volleyball camp at Hays Middle School Clinic Times: Middle School: 1 :00-3 :00 pm (open to Hays Middle School athletes only) Elementary: 3-4 grade -9:00-10:00 am (open to anyone) 5-6 grade 10:30-12:00 pm (open to anyone) Deadline: Please register by June 15th to receive a camp T-shirt. You may register up until the day of camp but will not receive a shirt after June 15th.&nbsp; See the flyer below for more information and registration information.

Don't let your athlete miss out on a great week of volleyball camp at Hays Middle School Clinic Times: Middle School: 1 :00-3 :00 pm (open to Hays Middle School athletes only) Elementary: 3-4 grade -9:00-10:00 am (open to anyone) 5-6 grade 10:30-12:00 pm (open to anyone) Deadline: Please register by June 15th to receive a camp T-shirt. You may register up until the day of camp but will not receive a shirt after June 15th.&nbsp; See the flyer below for more information and registration information.<figure>
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Retirement reception set for Ann Leiker Thursday

After a chilly, damp day to start the workweek, the National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for rain to continue into Wednesday afternoon in the Hays area.

There is a 50 percent chance of continued showers and thunderstorms through Monday, increasing to 70 percent to 80 percent Tuesday. The chance of continued precipitation falls to 30 percent Wednesday, mainly before 1 p.m., the NWS said.

Temperatures will remain cool, with highs in the mid- to upper-50s Tuesday and Wednesday. Skies will clear into the weekend, with the mercury rising to daytime highs in mid-70s to mid-80s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653334425813.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After a chilly, damp day to start the workweek, the National Weather Service in Dodge City is calling for rain to continue into Wednesday afternoon in the Hays area.There is a 50 percent chance of continued showers and thunderstorms through Monday, increasing to 70 percent to 80 percent Tuesday. The chance of continued precipitation falls to 30 percent Wednesday, mainly before 1 p.m., the NWS said.Temperatures will remain cool, with highs in the mid- to upper-50s Tuesday and Wednesday. Skies will clear into the weekend, with the mercury rising to daytime highs in mid-70s to mid-80s.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are still expecting widespread rain Monday night and Tuesday. Some of the rain will be heavy at times, especially south and east of Dodge City. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/LBqIwhpDLs">pic.twitter.com/LBqIwhpDLs</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1528699520946565121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NWS: Showers expected to continue into Wednesday

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Gardener's Supply president and CEO Cindy Turcot.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Gardener’s Supply CEO Cindy Turcot" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=c2c2c-12328db-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Gardener's Supply president and CEO Cindy Turcot.

🎤Forward Ever: Gardener’s Supply president and CEO Cindy Turcot

Sea monsters are coming to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. 

The museum's summer exhibit features the biggest, the strangest and the most fearsome creatures to ever swim in the sea.

"Sahara Sea Monsters" is an immersive exhibition transporting visitors through the prehistoric oceans of what is now Morocco.

Discover massive mosasaurs, terrifying trilobites and other outlandish invertebrates. These creatures defy imagination and make up the basis of myth and legends.

"Sahara Sea Monsters" takes visitors on a journey through the Moroccan fossil record starting at the formation of life through modern day.

Stamp your passport along the way at extinction events, swim like a mosasaur and vote for your favorite monster in an exhibition that is fun and educational for the whole family.

"Sahara Sea Monsters" will be making a splash on May 28 at the museum.

"Sahara Sea Monsters" was created by Silver Plume Exhibitions LLC and features original artwork by Julius T. Csotonyi and animation by Julian Johnson Mortimer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652990025849.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy of Sternberg Museum " />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Sternberg Museum </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSea monsters are coming to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. The museum's summer exhibit features the biggest, the strangest and the most fearsome creatures to ever swim in the sea."Sahara Sea Monsters" is an immersive exhibition transporting visitors through the prehistoric oceans of what is now Morocco.Discover massive mosasaurs, terrifying trilobites and other outlandish invertebrates. These creatures defy imagination and make up the basis of myth and legends. "Sahara Sea Monsters" takes visitors on a journey through the Moroccan fossil record starting at the formation of life through modern day.Stamp your passport along the way at extinction events, swim like a mosasaur and vote for your favorite monster in an exhibition that is fun and educational for the whole family."Sahara Sea Monsters" will be making a splash on May 28 at the museum. "Sahara Sea Monsters" was created by Silver Plume Exhibitions LLC and features original artwork by Julius T. Csotonyi and animation by Julian Johnson Mortimer.

Sternberg's 'Sahara Sea Monsters' tells tale of Moroccan prehistoric oceans

Grow Hays, Inc., KANSASWORKS and Big Creek Crossing will host a job fair Monday, June 13, from 3pm to 6pm in Big Creek Crossing.&nbsp;

Interested employers need to submit the sign-up form to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ernee@growhays.com">ernee@growhays.com</a>&nbsp;no later than June 3. Employers in Ellis, Rooks, Russell, Rush and Trego counties are invited to attend. There is a charge of $25 for booth rental.

If you have any questions, call Ernee Sly at Grow Hays, Inc. 785.628.3102 or the local KANSASWORKS office at 785.625.5654.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579031298910.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Grow Hays, Inc., KANSASWORKS and Big Creek Crossing will host a job fair Monday, June 13, from 3pm to 6pm in Big Creek Crossing.&nbsp;Interested employers need to submit the sign-up form to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ernee@growhays.com">ernee@growhays.com</a>&nbsp;no later than June 3. Employers in Ellis, Rooks, Russell, Rush and Trego counties are invited to attend. There is a charge of $25 for booth rental.If you have any questions, call Ernee Sly at Grow Hays, Inc. 785.628.3102 or the local KANSASWORKS office at 785.625.5654.

Local job fair scheduled for June 13 in Hays

Smoky Hills PBS Share a Story hits local libraries this summer

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653078242690.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>

Premier Business Management is hiring! If you are tired of doing the same thing every day, we have a position for you. PBM is looking for a full-time bookkeeping position. This position will work on different accounts every day.

Premier Business Management works for many different companies, and each has different needs. Flexibility is the key. The right candidate will be able to move between tasks (clients) and keep in tune with what each needs/wants. 

Nearly all of your work will be completed on a computer. 

This position is 30 - 40 hours per week with Friday afternoons off. The starting wage is $12.50 per hour, but potentially more based on your experience. 

Tasks of the job include but are not limited to:

Answering Phone Calls Payroll Sales Tax Reconciling Accounts Bill Paying Invoicing

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653054333341.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Premier Business Management is hiring! If you are tired of doing the same thing every day, we have a position for you. PBM is looking for a full-time bookkeeping position. This position will work on different accounts every day.Premier Business Management works for many different companies, and each has different needs. Flexibility is the key. The right candidate will be able to move between tasks (clients) and keep in tune with what each needs/wants. Nearly all of your work will be completed on a computer. This position is 30 - 40 hours per week with Friday afternoons off. The starting wage is $12.50 per hour, but potentially more based on your experience. Tasks of the job include but are not limited to:Answering Phone Calls Payroll Sales Tax Reconciling Accounts Bill Paying Invoicing

Wheat Scoop: Wheat Tour estimates crop at 261 million bushels

<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays hires director of business development" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=w7na9-122f54f-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Grow Hays hires director of business development

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Five students nominated the May Hays Post Teacher of the Month for the award, but it was what she offered beyond academics that made the difference to her students.

Kate Ozores, seventh-grade science teacher at Hays Middle School, is only in her second year as a teacher.

Student Avery Arias said of Ozores in her nomination, "Mrs. O is a favorite at our school. She is so kind and is always willing to talk. 

"My good friend has some mental health issues, and Mrs. O has been there for her and allows her to come in and talk in the mornings. I have learned so much from her, not only the subject but also how to be a role model and how to treat others."

Student Raylee Brungardt also sang Ozores praises saying, "She is a good teacher, she is always there to help, always kind, and if she can tell something is wrong, she will do something about it. I hope you nominate Mrs. Ozores for best teacher!!!"

Other students followed suit, describing Ozores as bubbly, happy and an amazing teacher. 

"She is a great teacher and makes everyone feel welcome. Even on your bad days, she makes it a good day," student Tehlyn Baalman said.

Ozores took the paper on which the students' comments were printed.

"Seeing your students say those things, that's what I work so hard for is to make them feel loved and cared for," Ozores said. "I want them to realize I care for them as a person and not just as a student. As a teacher, there is no better feeling."

Ozores, 23, is originally from Junction City and earned a bachelor's degree in education from Fort Hays State University and a master's degree in curriculum design and instructional coaching from Emporia State University.

Ozores comes from a family of educators. Both her mom and dad were teachers. Her mom taught first and second grades, and her dad was a PE teacher.

Ozores said she spent hours in her mom's classroom, writing on her smart board and playing school.

Despite her fantasy of being a teacher like her parents, Ozores struggled in school until she had Brandi Lundgren as a teacher in middle school.

"Growing up through elementary school, I was never the kid that understood things right away. I always needed extra help" Ozores said. "I would say that had a negative impact on me and made me not believe in myself as much. 

"I had this math teacher in middle school, and she showed me that I could be successful. She cared about me being successful."

Ozores said from that point on she loved school and knew she wanted to be a teacher. She said seeing her own students' academic success is one of her favorite aspects of being a teacher.

"Also seeing their mental growth and seeing them believe in themselves more throughout the school year," she said.

Ozores likes to use a lot of hands-on learning techniques in her classes.

One of her favorite activities, as well as her students', is an egg car challenge. The students design a vehicle to protect an egg on impact. The activity simulates car accidents and encourages students to wear seat belts, Ozores said. This year, only three eggs did not survive out of 150 students.

"They did an incredible job using scientific principles to design their cars," Ozores said.

She tries to relate scientific principles to aspects of daily life. When her classes discuss inertia, Ozores explains that is why we lean to one side or the other in a car when we go around the roundabouts.

&nbsp;"They love seeing how science applies to the world around them," she said.

Ozores said she believes girls need female role models in science. A female science teacher Ozores had in high school sparked her interest in the field. Growing up she said most of her science teachers were men.

During the school year, she asks her students to draw pictures of scientists. Most students still draw pictures of old white men with crazy hair. 

Ozores teaches them about scientists from various backgrounds and races, both men and women.

She said more girls are seeing they too can have STEM careers.

Ozores said her greatest challenge as a teacher is the mental load of caring for her students.

"You want them to be successful. You want them to be cared for and loved," Ozores said. "You realize so many of the students aren't getting those things — the care and the love at home or getting their basic needs met.

"I want them to have that experience that an adult cares for them," she said. "Just knowing that they aren't getting that is heartbreaking. I never had an experience like that, and it's really not fair what these kids are having to go through."

You need to have respect from kids, but they also need to know you have respect for them, Ozores said.

"I can't solve all of their problems, I wish I could, but just listening to them, you feel the weight lift off their shoulders," she said.

Ozores said having her daughter, Avery, last summer inspired her even more to be the best teacher she can be.

"I realized that one day I'm going to be sending my daughter off to school," she said, "and I want to know she is in the hands of a teacher who is going to push her to work hard, help her become successful and just care about her every single day ...

"I just want the parents of my [students] out there to know that I will be that person for their kids," Ozores said. "I will always support them. I will always push them to be their best. I will always be there to care for them and support them in anything they choose to do."

Ozores said she wants to continue teaching middle school science for some time. However, her long-term goals include becoming an instructional coach and eventually teaching education at the college level.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652986624813.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652974406633.jpeg" alt="Kate Ozores, seventh-grade science teacher at Hays Middle School, was selected as the Hays Post Teacher of the Month for May. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Kate Ozores, seventh-grade science teacher at Hays Middle School, was selected as the Hays Post Teacher of the Month for May. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostFive students nominated the May Hays Post Teacher of the Month for the award, but it was what she offered beyond academics that made the difference to her students. Kate Ozores, seventh-grade science teacher at Hays Middle School, is only in her second year as a teacher. Student Avery Arias said of Ozores in her nomination, "Mrs. O is a favorite at our school. She is so kind and is always willing to talk. "My good friend has some mental health issues, and Mrs. O has been there for her and allows her to come in and talk in the mornings. I have learned so much from her, not only the subject but also how to be a role model and how to treat others."Student Raylee Brungardt also sang Ozores praises saying, "She is a good teacher, she is always there to help, always kind, and if she can tell something is wrong, she will do something about it. I hope you nominate Mrs. Ozores for best teacher!!!"Other students followed suit, describing Ozores as bubbly, happy and an amazing teacher. "She is a great teacher and makes everyone feel welcome. Even on your bad days, she makes it a good day," student Tehlyn Baalman said. Ozores took the paper on which the students' comments were printed."I want to keep this forever," she said."Seeing your students say those things, that's what I work so hard for is to make them feel loved and cared for," Ozores said. "I want them to realize I care for them as a person and not just as a student. As a teacher, there is no better feeling." Ozores, 23, is originally from Junction City and earned a bachelor's degree in education from Fort Hays State University and a master's degree in curriculum design and instructional coaching from Emporia State University.Ozores comes from a family of educators. Both her mom and dad were teachers. Her mom taught first and second grades, and her dad was a PE teacher.Ozores said she spent hours in her mom's classroom, writing on her smart board and playing school.Despite her fantasy of being a teacher like her parents, Ozores struggled in school until she had Brandi Lundgren as a teacher in middle school."Growing up through elementary school, I was never the kid that understood things right away. I always needed extra help" Ozores said. "I would say that had a negative impact on me and made me not believe in myself as much. "I had this math teacher in middle school, and she showed me that I could be successful. She cared about me being successful."Ozores said from that point on she loved school and knew she wanted to be a teacher. She said seeing her own students' academic success is one of her favorite aspects of being a teacher."Also seeing their mental growth and seeing them believe in themselves more throughout the school year," she said. Ozores likes to use a lot of hands-on learning techniques in her classes.One of her favorite activities, as well as her students', is an egg car challenge. The students design a vehicle to protect an egg on impact. The activity simulates car accidents and encourages students to wear seat belts, Ozores said. This year, only three eggs did not survive out of 150 students."They did an incredible job using scientific principles to design their cars," Ozores said.She tries to relate scientific principles to aspects of daily life. When her classes discuss inertia, Ozores explains that is why we lean to one side or the other in a car when we go around the roundabouts.&nbsp;"They love seeing how science applies to the world around them," she said.Ozores said she believes girls need female role models in science. A female science teacher Ozores had in high school sparked her interest in the field. Growing up she said most of her science teachers were men. During the school year, she asks her students to draw pictures of scientists. Most students still draw pictures of old white men with crazy hair. Ozores teaches them about scientists from various backgrounds and races, both men and women.She said more girls are seeing they too can have STEM careers.Ozores said her greatest challenge as a teacher is the mental load of caring for her students."You want them to be successful. You want them to be cared for and loved," Ozores said. "You realize so many of the students aren't getting those things — the care and the love at home or getting their basic needs met."I want them to have that experience that an adult cares for them," she said. "Just knowing that they aren't getting that is heartbreaking. I never had an experience like that, and it's really not fair what these kids are having to go through."You need to have respect from kids, but they also need to know you have respect for them, Ozores said."I can't solve all of their problems, I wish I could, but just listening to them, you feel the weight lift off their shoulders," she said.Ozores said having her daughter, Avery, last summer inspired her even more to be the best teacher she can be."I realized that one day I'm going to be sending my daughter off to school," she said, "and I want to know she is in the hands of a teacher who is going to push her to work hard, help her become successful and just care about her every single day ..."I just want the parents of my [students] out there to know that I will be that person for their kids," Ozores said. "I will always support them. I will always push them to be their best. I will always be there to care for them and support them in anything they choose to do." Ozores said she wants to continue teaching middle school science for some time. However, her long-term goals include becoming an instructional coach and eventually teaching education at the college level. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652986624813.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Teacher of the Month: Students sing praises of science teacher who cares

COLBY — A new agriculture building at Colby Community College moved closer to reality Wednesday when the college was awarded $1,843,594 from the state budget signed by Gov. Laura Kelly. The funds are part of the Omnibus Appropriations Bill.

"Colby Community College is so grateful to receive this funding opportunity," said CCC President Dr. Seth Carter. "This facility will allow the college to create new training opportunities and better serve northwest Kansas and the state of Kansas as a whole. CCC wants to extend a special thank you to Governor Kelly, Senator Rick Billinger, and Ms. Heather Morgan, executive director of the Kansas Association of Community College Trustees, for their tireless work and efforts to advance this project and make it a funding priority."

CCC has focused on expanding its agricultural offerings and placed a renewed emphasis on providing training opportunities in the region. Nearly 9,000 feet of fence was installed at the college farm in addition to hauling in several thousand square feet of dirt to resolve long-standing drainage problems. In January, the college received a Department of Education Rural Postsecondary Economic Development grant for more than $1.23 million that will be used to strengthen higher education credentials among rural students. The grant will help develop additional agriculture certificates and tracks, enhance remote student learning, and hire additional ag faculty.

The new building will be constructed on campus near the existing Stanley Carr Agriculture Center, which is scheduled for renovation. The additional ag building is anticipated to be a 10,000 square-foot facility that houses all current and proposed ag-related programs.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — A new agriculture building at Colby Community College moved closer to reality Wednesday when the college was awarded $1,843,594 from the state budget signed by Gov. Laura Kelly. The funds are part of the Omnibus Appropriations Bill."Colby Community College is so grateful to receive this funding opportunity," said CCC President Dr. Seth Carter. "This facility will allow the college to create new training opportunities and better serve northwest Kansas and the state of Kansas as a whole. CCC wants to extend a special thank you to Governor Kelly, Senator Rick Billinger, and Ms. Heather Morgan, executive director of the Kansas Association of Community College Trustees, for their tireless work and efforts to advance this project and make it a funding priority."CCC has focused on expanding its agricultural offerings and placed a renewed emphasis on providing training opportunities in the region. Nearly 9,000 feet of fence was installed at the college farm in addition to hauling in several thousand square feet of dirt to resolve long-standing drainage problems. In January, the college received a Department of Education Rural Postsecondary Economic Development grant for more than $1.23 million that will be used to strengthen higher education credentials among rural students. The grant will help develop additional agriculture certificates and tracks, enhance remote student learning, and hire additional ag faculty.The new building will be constructed on campus near the existing Stanley Carr Agriculture Center, which is scheduled for renovation. The additional ag building is anticipated to be a 10,000 square-foot facility that houses all current and proposed ag-related programs.

Colby CC awarded $1.8 million for new ag facility

High Plains Mental Health Center has expanded its treatment program for substance use disorders, now offering outpatient Medication Assisted Treatment in addition to clinical therapy. 

High Plains has hired a new full-time telehealth psychiatrist, Dr. Vivek Jayadeva, who specializes in Medication Assisted Treatment. This provider allows High Plains to offer medication services for those suffering from substance use disorders, specifically opioid addiction. In some cases, medication services can also be helpful in treating alcohol use disorders. 

The additional service is valuable because substance use disorders and mental illness often co-occur, so an integrated treatment option often results in better clinical outcomes. Dr. Jayadeva is currently accepting new clients with those telehealth services available at any of our six full-time office locations. Following the initial psychiatry intake appointment, clients can access psychiatric services via Zoom from the comfort and convenience of home. High Plains Mental Health Center has full-time clinics in Hays, Osborne, Norton, Phillipsburg, Colby and Goodland, in addition to community outreach offices in 14 other counties.

In addition to MAT, High Plains has recently expanded counseling and peer support programs for those experiencing Substance Use Disorders. High Plains Mental Health Center is a licensed Substance Use Disorder service provider with the State of Kansas. 

More than 20 of our mental health professionals are dual-certified to provide substance use counseling, and we recently partnered with Heartland RADAC to provide additional counseling and peer support options. As always, a sliding fee scale is available for qualifying clients and services are not refused based on inability to pay. Block grant funding is available to any non-Medicaid member who is a resident of Kansas and whose income is less than 200 percent of federal poverty guidelines. The recent expansion of SUD services is part of a federal grant to implement Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic services.&nbsp;

MAT involves the prescribing of medications to treat individuals in recovery from certain Substance Use Disorders, usually disorders involving highly addictive opioid drugs (heroin, pain pills, etc.) or sometimes alcohol. MAT has been found very effective in helping clients sustain recovery longer, especially when used in combination with behavioral health therapy. In 2018, an estimated 2 million people in the U.S. had an opioid use disorder – and there are likely many more undiagnosed and untreated. 

Opioid overdoses can be deadly – every day, more than 172 Americans die after overdosing on opioids, averaging seven deaths per hour. And this is no longer an issue affecting only large cities. Regional law enforcement have publicly posted warnings regarding opioid overdoses and fentanyl-laced drugs in Northwest Kansas. Opioid addictions often begin with a pain medication prescribed by a health care provider, which can lead to use of illegal street drugs. Many who become dependent on opioids will also experience secondary effects of use, such as loss of employment and criminal charges. It is incredibly difficult to quit opioid use once dependent, as the substances are very addictive and withdrawal often causes intense, negative physical symptoms. The controlled use of prescription medication through MAT has been clinically proven to help clients withdraw from the substance safely and more effectively.&nbsp;

Mental illness and Substance Use Disorders often co-occur. The expanded treatment options at High Plains Mental Health Center make it possible to integrate treatment, which is often linked to better recovery outcomes. For more information about Substance Use Disorder treatment at High Plains Mental Health Center, or to access mental health services, call 1-800-432-0333. This phone number also serves as a 24/7 crisis hotline after regular business hours. High Plains Mental Health Center currently has a total of 28 service locations in the 20 counties of Northwest Kansas – call us to find the most convenient service option for you. Telehealth services are also available from the comfort and convenience of home. We’re Here for You!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588708399757.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseHigh Plains Mental Health Center has expanded its treatment program for substance use disorders, now offering outpatient Medication Assisted Treatment in addition to clinical therapy. High Plains has hired a new full-time telehealth psychiatrist, Dr. Vivek Jayadeva, who specializes in Medication Assisted Treatment. This provider allows High Plains to offer medication services for those suffering from substance use disorders, specifically opioid addiction. In some cases, medication services can also be helpful in treating alcohol use disorders. The additional service is valuable because substance use disorders and mental illness often co-occur, so an integrated treatment option often results in better clinical outcomes. Dr. Jayadeva is currently accepting new clients with those telehealth services available at any of our six full-time office locations. Following the initial psychiatry intake appointment, clients can access psychiatric services via Zoom from the comfort and convenience of home. High Plains Mental Health Center has full-time clinics in Hays, Osborne, Norton, Phillipsburg, Colby and Goodland, in addition to community outreach offices in 14 other counties.In addition to MAT, High Plains has recently expanded counseling and peer support programs for those experiencing Substance Use Disorders. High Plains Mental Health Center is a licensed Substance Use Disorder service provider with the State of Kansas. More than 20 of our mental health professionals are dual-certified to provide substance use counseling, and we recently partnered with Heartland RADAC to provide additional counseling and peer support options. As always, a sliding fee scale is available for qualifying clients and services are not refused based on inability to pay. Block grant funding is available to any non-Medicaid member who is a resident of Kansas and whose income is less than 200 percent of federal poverty guidelines. The recent expansion of SUD services is part of a federal grant to implement Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic services.&nbsp;MAT involves the prescribing of medications to treat individuals in recovery from certain Substance Use Disorders, usually disorders involving highly addictive opioid drugs (heroin, pain pills, etc.) or sometimes alcohol. MAT has been found very effective in helping clients sustain recovery longer, especially when used in combination with behavioral health therapy. In 2018, an estimated 2 million people in the U.S. had an opioid use disorder – and there are likely many more undiagnosed and untreated. Opioid overdoses can be deadly – every day, more than 172 Americans die after overdosing on opioids, averaging seven deaths per hour. And this is no longer an issue affecting only large cities. Regional law enforcement have publicly posted warnings regarding opioid overdoses and fentanyl-laced drugs in Northwest Kansas. Opioid addictions often begin with a pain medication prescribed by a health care provider, which can lead to use of illegal street drugs. Many who become dependent on opioids will also experience secondary effects of use, such as loss of employment and criminal charges. It is incredibly difficult to quit opioid use once dependent, as the substances are very addictive and withdrawal often causes intense, negative physical symptoms. The controlled use of prescription medication through MAT has been clinically proven to help clients withdraw from the substance safely and more effectively.&nbsp;Mental illness and Substance Use Disorders often co-occur. The expanded treatment options at High Plains Mental Health Center make it possible to integrate treatment, which is often linked to better recovery outcomes. For more information about Substance Use Disorder treatment at High Plains Mental Health Center, or to access mental health services, call 1-800-432-0333. This phone number also serves as a 24/7 crisis hotline after regular business hours. High Plains Mental Health Center currently has a total of 28 service locations in the 20 counties of Northwest Kansas – call us to find the most convenient service option for you. Telehealth services are also available from the comfort and convenience of home. We’re Here for You!High Plains Mental Health Center is a licensed community mental health center dedicated to the aggressive pursuit of providing a comprehensive mental health program to the residents of Northwest Kansas. Embodied in this pursuit are fundamental principles of establishing quality services as close to home as possible, at an affordable fee, and delivered in the least disruptive manner available. Such services will offer a continuum of care so that treatment can be individualized, and our staff can respond quickly and compassionately to those reaching out to us.&nbsp;

High Plains offers expanded treatment options for substance use 

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly announced this week the 11 recipients of the Kansas Tourism Attraction Development Grants. The grants were presented by Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland on May 13 at the Colby Events Center.

“Tourism is the welcoming committee for new residents and businesses in our state,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“By continuing to develop vibrant travel destinations across Kansas, we are opening the door to more revenue and new economic growth in communities of all sizes.”

The Attraction Development Grant Program is administered by Kansas Tourism, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce. The grants assist in the expansion of sustainable, market-driven travel experiences within the state that will influence travel decisions, increase visitation to Kansas, and generate economic impact resulting from the creation of jobs, capital investment, and tax revenue.

Kansas Tourism will provide a total of $251,544 in grant funding for eleven new or enhanced attraction development projects across the state. In total, the eleven grant recipients will invest more than $2.1 million toward the approved projects.

“Destination development and tourism are critical economic development activities,” Toland said. “When people come to one of these attractions, they’ll also dine at our local restaurants, stay at local hotels and shop at local stores. All of this brings new dollars to our communities and helps showcase the great places we have to live, work and play across Kansas.”

“Funding these projects is essential for expanding and enhancing Kansas’ vast attraction portfolio”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe. “This grant supports destinations and communities by spurring economic growth, increasing visitation to Kansas, and enhancing the visitor experience.”

Applications were reviewed by a committee of three Kansas travel industry representatives appointed by Toland. The committee made its selections based on the projects’ economic impact to the state, availability of leveraged funding, ability to finish the project within 18 months, and the presence of a sound business and marketing plan. Grant dollars may fund up to 40 percent of a project, with the community or business funding the remaining 60 percent.

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA1MTYuNTc5NzcyMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnRyYXZlbGtzLmNvbS90cmF2ZWwtaW5kdXN0cnkvcHJvZ3JhbXMtYW5kLXJlc291cmNlcy9ncmFudHMvIn0.c0LKRGSx4h3H_oFuMYeytDKlVnhsxO7B-3bkVdcaIIQ/s/1372079104/br/131388876540-l">https://www.travelks.com/travel-industry/programs-and-resources/grants/</a>&nbsp;or contact Kansas Tourism Grant Program Manager Taylor Hartshorn at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:taylor.hartshorn@ks.gov">taylor.hartshorn@ks.gov</a>.

Office of the GovernorTOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly announced this week the 11 recipients of the Kansas Tourism Attraction Development Grants. The grants were presented by Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland on May 13 at the Colby Events Center.“Tourism is the welcoming committee for new residents and businesses in our state,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“By continuing to develop vibrant travel destinations across Kansas, we are opening the door to more revenue and new economic growth in communities of all sizes.”The Attraction Development Grant Program is administered by Kansas Tourism, a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce. The grants assist in the expansion of sustainable, market-driven travel experiences within the state that will influence travel decisions, increase visitation to Kansas, and generate economic impact resulting from the creation of jobs, capital investment, and tax revenue.Kansas Tourism will provide a total of $251,544 in grant funding for eleven new or enhanced attraction development projects across the state. In total, the eleven grant recipients will invest more than $2.1 million toward the approved projects.“Destination development and tourism are critical economic development activities,” Toland said. “When people come to one of these attractions, they’ll also dine at our local restaurants, stay at local hotels and shop at local stores. All of this brings new dollars to our communities and helps showcase the great places we have to live, work and play across Kansas.”The 2022 grant recipients are:<ul>
 <li>Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau,&nbsp;Dickinson County, $22,000 – World’s Largest Belt Buckle</li><li>Baxter Springs Historical Society,&nbsp;Cherokee County, $40,000 – Route 66 Roadside Park</li><li>City of Colby,&nbsp;Thomas County, $40,000 –Young Memorial Park Project</li><li>Colonial Fox Theatre Foundation,&nbsp;Crawford County, $40,000 – Theatre Pavilion Project</li><li>Exploration Place,&nbsp;Sedgwick County, $20,000 – Traveling Exhibit Gallery Improvements</li><li>Good Karma Micro-Dairy,&nbsp;Russell County, $3,130 – Agritourism Farm Tour Enhancements</li><li>Kansas State Fair,&nbsp;Reno County, $10,699 – Expo Center Enhancements</li><li>Medicine Lodge Indian Peace Treaty Association,&nbsp;Barber County, $20,000 – Grounds Improvement Project</li><li>Oregon Trail, LLC,&nbsp;Brown County, $40,000 –Glamping Project</li><li>Thrive Allen County,&nbsp;Allen County, $2,475 – Walter Johnson Sign</li><li>White Tail Run Winery,&nbsp;Douglas County, $13,239 –Disc Golf Course</li>
 </ul>“Funding these projects is essential for expanding and enhancing Kansas’ vast attraction portfolio”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe. “This grant supports destinations and communities by spurring economic growth, increasing visitation to Kansas, and enhancing the visitor experience.”Applications were reviewed by a committee of three Kansas travel industry representatives appointed by Toland. The committee made its selections based on the projects’ economic impact to the state, availability of leveraged funding, ability to finish the project within 18 months, and the presence of a sound business and marketing plan. Grant dollars may fund up to 40 percent of a project, with the community or business funding the remaining 60 percent.For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA1MTYuNTc5NzcyMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnRyYXZlbGtzLmNvbS90cmF2ZWwtaW5kdXN0cnkvcHJvZ3JhbXMtYW5kLXJlc291cmNlcy9ncmFudHMvIn0.c0LKRGSx4h3H_oFuMYeytDKlVnhsxO7B-3bkVdcaIIQ/s/1372079104/br/131388876540-l">https://www.travelks.com/travel-industry/programs-and-resources/grants/</a>&nbsp;or contact Kansas Tourism Grant Program Manager Taylor Hartshorn at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:taylor.hartshorn@ks.gov">taylor.hartshorn@ks.gov</a>.

Russell, Colby awarded grants to develop tourism attractions

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653078218622.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>

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

Building better beef. That’s one goal of an innovative Kansas entrepreneur who is using a unique breed of cattle and careful quality control to create a remarkable beef-eating experience for consumers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dave Dreiling is the founder and owner of Booth Creek Wagyu. As we have previously profiled, Dave is a successful entrepreneur who studied business at K-State. He met and married Kristen Spaeth. Dave founded GTM, the sportswear company, and also owns numerous restaurants.&nbsp;

In 2008, he bought a Pottawatomie County ranch, primarily for deer hunting. Through the years, he expanded the property, now known as Booth Creek Ranch. Meanwhile, Dareiling’s uncle raised greyhounds near Abilene and had started raising beef cattle as well, including some cows that had been bred to a bull from a Japanese breed known as Wagyu.&nbsp;

“We got some of this beef and fell in love with it,” Dreiling said. They found it to be especially tender and flavorful. Dreiling went to his uncle’s dispersal sale with the intention of buying one animal, but ended up purchasing four full-blood Wagyu and 28 Wagyu embryos. “My intent was to buy a few head to have great beef for family and friends,” he said.&nbsp;

The more Dreiling learned about Wagyu, the more he became convinced about the potential of the breed and the opportunities to upgrade beef consumption. “There aren’t a lot of Wagyu producers,” he said. “One was a cattle company in California that was shipping them to Kansas to be fed, and then shipping them back to be processed.”&nbsp;

“Kansas is a better place to raise cattle,” Dreiling said. “Why couldn’t we do this here, all the way through?”&nbsp;

So Booth Creek Wagyu became the basis for a vertically integrated beef production operation, from the genetics and production all the way to processing, sales, and distribution. This would assure quality control through the entire process.&nbsp;

They purchased a meat processing business, now known as MeatWorks, in Riley. In March 2022, they opened a Booth Creek Wagyu retail store and sampling kitchen in east Manhattan.&nbsp;

What makes Wagyu beef exceptional? “It’s all about the marbling, which contributes to taste and tenderness,” Dreiling said. “Then I stumbled on the health benefits. Most of the fat is unsaturated. Wagyu beef is higher in Omega 3s and 6s than salmon and is lower in cholesterol than chicken.”&nbsp;

“I’ve heard our store described as a jewelry store for beef because we offer lots of choices,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;

Booth Creek Wagyu sells beef cuts at the Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels, with the higher levels featuring higher amounts of marbling. USDA Prime beef is 8-12% IMF, while a Platinum full-blood Wagyu is 26% IMF or more.&nbsp;&nbsp;“That makes a rich steak so people might not eat as much of it,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;

“Wagyu is like coffee these days – people have lots of different preferences. Some want dark roast, some want it lighter, and no one is wrong. Some (beef consumers) prefer more tenderness and some want less fat.”&nbsp;

He’s devised a camera system that takes an electronic image of each cut of meat, and the image is transmitted to Japan for grading. “We know where every steak comes from and how it grades,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;

The Booth Creek Wagyu store includes a sampling kitchen so people can decide what level of marbling they prefer. “We want to help people dial in on what kind of beef they like,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;

His intent is to build on the Manhattan store and open additional Wagyu stores and sampling kitchens across the region and the nation.&nbsp;

All of the store’s Wagyu beef originates at Booth Creek Ranch, located near the rural community of Olsburg, population 219 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.boothcreekwagyu.com/">www.boothcreekwagyu.com</a>.&nbsp;

Can beef be better? That’s become a passion for this Kansas entrepreneur. We commend Dave Dreiling and all those involved with Booth Creek Wagyu for making a difference with innovative production and marketing. We’re glad he’s making a business of building better beef.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652883467504.png" alt="Dave Dreiling" />
 <figcaption>Dave Dreiling</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;Building better beef. That’s one goal of an innovative Kansas entrepreneur who is using a unique breed of cattle and careful quality control to create a remarkable beef-eating experience for consumers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dave Dreiling is the founder and owner of Booth Creek Wagyu. As we have previously profiled, Dave is a successful entrepreneur who studied business at K-State. He met and married Kristen Spaeth. Dave founded GTM, the sportswear company, and also owns numerous restaurants.&nbsp;In 2008, he bought a Pottawatomie County ranch, primarily for deer hunting. Through the years, he expanded the property, now known as Booth Creek Ranch. Meanwhile, Dareiling’s uncle raised greyhounds near Abilene and had started raising beef cattle as well, including some cows that had been bred to a bull from a Japanese breed known as Wagyu.&nbsp;“We got some of this beef and fell in love with it,” Dreiling said. They found it to be especially tender and flavorful. Dreiling went to his uncle’s dispersal sale with the intention of buying one animal, but ended up purchasing four full-blood Wagyu and 28 Wagyu embryos. “My intent was to buy a few head to have great beef for family and friends,” he said.&nbsp;The more Dreiling learned about Wagyu, the more he became convinced about the potential of the breed and the opportunities to upgrade beef consumption. “There aren’t a lot of Wagyu producers,” he said. “One was a cattle company in California that was shipping them to Kansas to be fed, and then shipping them back to be processed.”&nbsp;“Kansas is a better place to raise cattle,” Dreiling said. “Why couldn’t we do this here, all the way through?”&nbsp;So Booth Creek Wagyu became the basis for a vertically integrated beef production operation, from the genetics and production all the way to processing, sales, and distribution. This would assure quality control through the entire process.&nbsp;They purchased a meat processing business, now known as MeatWorks, in Riley. In March 2022, they opened a Booth Creek Wagyu retail store and sampling kitchen in east Manhattan.&nbsp;What makes Wagyu beef exceptional? “It’s all about the marbling, which contributes to taste and tenderness,” Dreiling said. “Then I stumbled on the health benefits. Most of the fat is unsaturated. Wagyu beef is higher in Omega 3s and 6s than salmon and is lower in cholesterol than chicken.”&nbsp;“I’ve heard our store described as a jewelry store for beef because we offer lots of choices,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;Booth Creek Wagyu sells beef cuts at the Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels, with the higher levels featuring higher amounts of marbling. USDA Prime beef is 8-12% IMF, while a Platinum full-blood Wagyu is 26% IMF or more.&nbsp;&nbsp;“That makes a rich steak so people might not eat as much of it,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;“Wagyu is like coffee these days – people have lots of different preferences. Some want dark roast, some want it lighter, and no one is wrong. Some (beef consumers) prefer more tenderness and some want less fat.”&nbsp;He’s devised a camera system that takes an electronic image of each cut of meat, and the image is transmitted to Japan for grading. “We know where every steak comes from and how it grades,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;The Booth Creek Wagyu store includes a sampling kitchen so people can decide what level of marbling they prefer. “We want to help people dial in on what kind of beef they like,” Dreiling said.&nbsp;His intent is to build on the Manhattan store and open additional Wagyu stores and sampling kitchens across the region and the nation.&nbsp;All of the store’s Wagyu beef originates at Booth Creek Ranch, located near the rural community of Olsburg, population 219 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.boothcreekwagyu.com/">www.boothcreekwagyu.com</a>.&nbsp;Can beef be better? That’s become a passion for this Kansas entrepreneur. We commend Dave Dreiling and all those involved with Booth Creek Wagyu for making a difference with innovative production and marketing. We’re glad he’s making a business of building better beef.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Dave Dreiling, Booth Creek Wagyu 

<div><iframe title="Hays Young Professionals plan June Street dance" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=baqmz-122f542-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Hays Young Professionals plan June Street dance

James Robben has accepted the new position with Grow Hays as the director of business development and special projects.

Robben is currently employed as a district representative for the office of U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran. Previously he served as an equipment sales representative at Carrico Implement in Hays. Robben has been active in the Chamber of Hays, Hays Area Young Professionals organization. He is 2013 graduate of Fort Hays State University and a native of Sharon Springs.

“With James having grown up in a rural farm community and then serving as a district representative for Sen. Moran we believe that he has a very good understanding of the challenges faced by rural communities when it comes to economic growth” said Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director. “His experience and western Kansas work ethic give me every confidence that he will do a terrific job for our community in this role.”

Grow Hays, Inc. is a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing the economic health and vitality of Ellis County and Western Kansas. Known for its efforts to promote a robust local economy through business creation, retention, expansion, and recruitment, Grow Hays has offered instrumental support toward numerous community successes, including the RHID housing project, development of innovative job training initiatives, and BriefSpace, a coworking space and business incubator located in downtown Hays. Grow Hays also administers a housing redevelopment program and training programs designed to offer skilled-trade training to area workers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653076252591.jpeg" alt="James Robben&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>James Robben&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Grow HaysJames Robben has accepted the new position with Grow Hays as the director of business development and special projects.Robben is currently employed as a district representative for the office of U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran. Previously he served as an equipment sales representative at Carrico Implement in Hays. Robben has been active in the Chamber of Hays, Hays Area Young Professionals organization. He is 2013 graduate of Fort Hays State University and a native of Sharon Springs.“With James having grown up in a rural farm community and then serving as a district representative for Sen. Moran we believe that he has a very good understanding of the challenges faced by rural communities when it comes to economic growth” said Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director. “His experience and western Kansas work ethic give me every confidence that he will do a terrific job for our community in this role.”Robben will begin June 1.Grow Hays, Inc. is a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing the economic health and vitality of Ellis County and Western Kansas. Known for its efforts to promote a robust local economy through business creation, retention, expansion, and recruitment, Grow Hays has offered instrumental support toward numerous community successes, including the RHID housing project, development of innovative job training initiatives, and BriefSpace, a coworking space and business incubator located in downtown Hays. Grow Hays also administers a housing redevelopment program and training programs designed to offer skilled-trade training to area workers.

FHSU alum, Sharon Springs native joins growing staff of Grow Hays

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The frustration was clear on the faces and in the voices of Hays city commissioners and City Manager Toby Dougherty as they discussed the status of the R9 Ranch project - the long term water supply for Hays and Russell - at the end of Thursday's work session.&nbsp;

The cities, joint owners of the 7,000 acre ranch located in southwest Edwards County, have been waiting 17 months for a judge's ruling in an administrative review of the application to convert the irrigation rights of the ranch to municipal use for the cities.

Hays and Russell filed a <a href="https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/dwr/water-appropriation/change-applications/hays-change-and-water-transfer">change application&nbsp;on the water rights</a>&nbsp;with the&nbsp;

Kansas Department of Agriculture’s&nbsp;Division of Water Resources&nbsp;(DWR) in June 2015.&nbsp;&nbsp;

That lengthy process culminated in a <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/03/28/chief-engineer-approves-hays-russell-r9-ranch-water-change-applications/">master order issued in March 2019</a> from the DWR chief engineer.

"It says here's how much you can use, here's how quickly you can pull it out of the ground, here's where you pull it out of the ground, and here's any other limiting things that I wanted placed on it," Dougherty reminded the commission during a quick review of the process.

In June 2019, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WaterPACK1">WaterPACK </a>(Water Protection Association of Central Kansas), an irrigator advocacy group, <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/06/21/%f0%9f%8e%a5-judicial-review-petition-filed-in-r9-ranch-water-rights-transfer/">filed a petition for judicial review</a> with the court in Edwards County. It's a final check in the process before triggering the Water Transfer Act.

"Essentially what they said is the state didn't follow proper rules and regulations in order to get the master order granted," Dougherty said.

" ... We filed as an intervener ... Obviously the state of Kansas, Department of Agriculture, Hays and Russell argued that we not only followed the rules, but they followed the rules to the letter of the law.

"The judge held a hearing in January of 2020 and we have been waiting essentially 17 months for the ruling."&nbsp;

Due to the quantity of water and the distance it will be transported for its new use, the project requires approval under the state’s Water Transfer Act. It would be the first time it is triggered.&nbsp;

Chief Judge Bruce T. Gatterman, of the 24th Judicial District which includes Edwards County, is the judge reviewing the petition.

Commissioner Shaun Musil asked if Dougherty could talk to the judge on behalf of the city about the delay.

"I have been advised by our attorney that it's not proper for me or them to reach out and talk to a judge while they have a case under advisement," Dougherty said. "It's probably not advisable for you (commissioners) to reach out as a representative of the city."

Musil said the stalled ruling affects more than Hays and Russell. Ellis and Victoria are interested in utilizing the water supply.

"This is gonna help us all grow. You know if we get this water, we're always going to conserve the best we can. How long do we have to wait to go forward?" Musil wondered.

Dougherty said lawyers have told him that "taking this long on a ruling is unprecedented."

"I don't know why it's taking so long. I've had no communication with the court. ... I'm biased, but we think this is a pretty cut-and-dried case."

Mayor Mason Ruder noted the longer the ruling is delayed, the more the project cost increases. He pointed to the current inflation rate which is the highest in 40 years.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653090035477.png" alt="The original anticipated timeline for the R9 Ranch water rights changes and transfer application to the state. The process has been considerably slowed. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>The original anticipated timeline for the R9 Ranch water rights changes and transfer application to the state. The process has been considerably slowed. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe frustration was clear on the faces and in the voices of Hays city commissioners and City Manager Toby Dougherty as they discussed the status of the R9 Ranch project - the long term water supply for Hays and Russell - at the end of Thursday's work session.&nbsp;The cities, joint owners of the 7,000 acre ranch located in southwest Edwards County, have been waiting 17 months for a judge's ruling in an administrative review of the application to convert the irrigation rights of the ranch to municipal use for the cities.Hays and Russell filed a <a href="https://www.agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/dwr/water-appropriation/change-applications/hays-change-and-water-transfer">change application&nbsp;on the water rights</a>&nbsp;with the&nbsp;

Kansas Department of Agriculture’s&nbsp;Division of Water Resources&nbsp;(DWR) in June 2015.&nbsp;&nbsp;That lengthy process culminated in a <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/03/28/chief-engineer-approves-hays-russell-r9-ranch-water-change-applications/">master order issued in March 2019</a> from the DWR chief engineer."It says here's how much you can use, here's how quickly you can pull it out of the ground, here's where you pull it out of the ground, and here's any other limiting things that I wanted placed on it," Dougherty reminded the commission during a quick review of the process.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653080015148.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>In June 2019, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WaterPACK1">WaterPACK </a>(Water Protection Association of Central Kansas), an irrigator advocacy group, <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/06/21/%f0%9f%8e%a5-judicial-review-petition-filed-in-r9-ranch-water-rights-transfer/">filed a petition for judicial review</a> with the court in Edwards County. It's a final check in the process before triggering the Water Transfer Act."Essentially what they said is the state didn't follow proper rules and regulations in order to get the master order granted," Dougherty said." ... We filed as an intervener ... Obviously the state of Kansas, Department of Agriculture, Hays and Russell argued that we not only followed the rules, but they followed the rules to the letter of the law."The judge held a hearing in January of 2020 and we have been waiting essentially 17 months for the ruling."&nbsp;Due to the quantity of water and the distance it will be transported for its new use, the project requires approval under the state’s Water Transfer Act. It would be the first time it is triggered.&nbsp;<figure>
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 </figure>Chief Judge Bruce T. Gatterman, of the 24th Judicial District which includes Edwards County, is the judge reviewing the petition.Commissioner Shaun Musil asked if Dougherty could talk to the judge on behalf of the city about the delay."I have been advised by our attorney that it's not proper for me or them to reach out and talk to a judge while they have a case under advisement," Dougherty said. "It's probably not advisable for you (commissioners) to reach out as a representative of the city."Musil said the stalled ruling affects more than Hays and Russell. Ellis and Victoria are interested in utilizing the water supply."This is gonna help us all grow. You know if we get this water, we're always going to conserve the best we can. How long do we have to wait to go forward?" Musil wondered.Dougherty said lawyers have told him that "taking this long on a ruling is unprecedented.""I don't know why it's taking so long. I've had no communication with the court. ... I'm biased, but we think this is a pretty cut-and-dried case."Mayor Mason Ruder noted the longer the ruling is delayed, the more the project cost increases. He pointed to the current inflation rate which is the highest in 40 years.&nbsp;Dougherty estimated the total project cost has increased 30 to 35 percent since 2018 "just because of the legal, procedural delays in this process."&nbsp;"It's just unacceptable," said Sandy Jacobs, commissioner. She asked Dougherty to communicate with the city's attorneys again to see if there is any other legal maneuver to find out the status of the ruling and to alert the judge to the increasing cost.The water project attorney is David Traster of Foulston Siefkin in Wichita. Daniel Buller, a Foulston Siefkin attorney in Kansas City, works with Buller on the matter.&nbsp;Dougherty was also tasked to reach out to legislators, including Hays Representative Barb Wasinger and U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a former Hays resident, for assistance. He will also talk to the state department of agriculture counsel "and figure out where they're at."&nbsp;"I think it's so ridiculous we're still waiting almost two years now," Musil added.Once the ruling is issued, there still remains a two-year regulatory process to go through - the Water Transfer Act itself - and then the design and construction of the approximately 70- mile water line from Edwards County to Ellis County."I think we can do some design concurrently with the other regulatory process," Dougherty said, "but it's hard to recommend to you to spend six or seven million dollars on design when we're not through this process yet.""It feels like we're being held hostage," Jacobs said. "I don't like that."Commissioner Reese Barrick, director of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, in an earlier meeting said the region is likely going into a drought cycle.The drought cycle is what prompted Hays to move forward with the R9 Ranch project.&nbsp;"It was the 2011 through 2014 drought that made the commission of Hays and the Russell city council say it's time to make this happen," Dougherty recalled.&nbsp;"Last year we had water, water everywhere," Jacobs said. "It begins to get frightening again."There is an appeals process for the city if the judge were to rule against it.&nbsp;Barrick asked if the city could file for compensatory damages if it were determined the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd42db8897d147ad4bb113a">WaterPack petition</a> was submitted to intentionally delay the water project.&nbsp;Dougherty wasn't sure."I think the difficulty would be that this is an administrative proceeding. I'm not necessarily sure that this is a plaintiff-caused delay as much as the hearing itself is not being ruled on in a timely manner. I think the burden of proof would be was that there was a knowledge of that."&nbsp;It's another question Dougherty will ask of the cities' water project counsel and report back to the commission at a future meeting.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653088401365.jpeg" alt="The R9 Ranch has been converted from cropland to native grass.&nbsp; (Courtesy City of Hays)" />
 <figcaption>The R9 Ranch has been converted from cropland to native grass.&nbsp; (Courtesy City of Hays)</figcaption>
 </figure>The R9 Ranch, which has been converted to grassland, has been owned by Hays and Russell since 1995.