By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083094952300">Rooks County Arts Council</a> has mounted 135 barn quilts on the wall of the Stockton city utility building.

The first phase of the project, which measures 54 by 10 feet, is the culmination of 1,500 hours of volunteer work since the beginning of June.

Jayne Prockish, owner of Sunflower Shed art studio, has helped coordinate the program with the help of the council.

This is one of the first arts council projects since the council re-formed in 2020. The first phase of the blocks went up on the Stockton city utility building last week. 

The barn quilts can be seen coming into Stockton from the west on U.S. Highway 24.

The barn quilts, which are 2-foot square, are all sponsored. Some were sponsored by local businesses and some were created in memory of family members. Fans of KU and K-State each sponsored multiple blocks honoring those schools. A third multi-block section is set for phase two that will honor Fort Hays State University.

The project also received grants from the Heartland Community Foundation and the Stockton Community Fund.

Sponsors could paint their own blocks or request community volunteers to do it for them.

All of the blocks have been sponsored and painted by people from Stockton or who have connections to Stockton.

Prockish said the project has been a way to bring the community together. The city has allowed the council to use its building for five, three-day painting sessions. 

"We did it as a community project to bring people together for a common cause. It is to bring some art to community, and it's also to pull us together and give us a little bit of a history wall," she said.

Stockton is celebrating 150 years since its founding. Other blocks note important businesses and dates, including blocks that honor a past police chief and optometrist.

Each of the blocks has its own story, Prockish said. The council committee working on the wall hopes to create a webpage on the city's website that will tell the story of each block. A sign will be erected at the site that will help people link to that page.

"It's only been a week and it's been amazing. People have been popping in, 'Do you have room for mine?' " Prockish said of the barn quilt blocks.

The wall has space for 135 or more blocks. The second phase of the project will start in January.

If you want more information on the Stockton barn quilt project, you can follow the project on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083094952300">Facebook</a>.

The arts council would also like to sponsor barn quilt walls in other communities in Rooks County, but the council is looking for people to spearhead the projects in those towns.

Prockish said she hopes the barn quilts will make Rooks County a destination for those travelers who want to get off the beaten path.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e338090c-30ab-4595-b58f-ea12bfdc547c">The arts council also sponsored a new mural on the corner of U.S. Highway 24 and U.S. 183. That mural is nearing completion.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667417293146.jpeg" alt="One hundred thirty-five 2-foot square barn quilts grace the side of the city utility shed in Stockton. The second phase of the project, which will extend the rest of the length of this building, has room for at least 135 more. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>One hundred thirty-five 2-foot square barn quilts grace the side of the city utility shed in Stockton. The second phase of the project, which will extend the rest of the length of this building, has room for at least 135 more. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083094952300">Rooks County Arts Council</a> has mounted 135 barn quilts on the wall of the Stockton city utility building.The first phase of the project, which measures 54 by 10 feet, is the culmination of 1,500 hours of volunteer work since the beginning of June. Jayne Prockish, owner of Sunflower Shed art studio, has helped coordinate the program with the help of the council.This is one of the first arts council projects since the council re-formed in 2020. The first phase of the blocks went up on the Stockton city utility building last week. The barn quilts can be seen coming into Stockton from the west on U.S. Highway 24.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667417488511.jpeg" alt="Volunteers install barn quilts on the side of the Stockton city utility shed last week. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Volunteers install barn quilts on the side of the Stockton city utility shed last week. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>The barn quilts, which are 2-foot square, are all sponsored. Some were sponsored by local businesses and some were created in memory of family members. Fans of KU and K-State each sponsored multiple blocks honoring those schools. A third multi-block section is set for phase two that will honor Fort Hays State University.The project also received grants from the Heartland Community Foundation and the Stockton Community Fund.Sponsors could paint their own blocks or request community volunteers to do it for them.All of the blocks have been sponsored and painted by people from Stockton or who have connections to Stockton. Prockish said the project has been a way to bring the community together. The city has allowed the council to use its building for five, three-day painting sessions. "We did it as a community project to bring people together for a common cause. It is to bring some art to community, and it's also to pull us together and give us a little bit of a history wall," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667417601114.jpeg" alt="Many of the barn quilts were sponsored by businesses or organizations. The lower block honors the former Stockton Police Chief. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Many of the barn quilts were sponsored by businesses or organizations. The lower block honors the former Stockton Police Chief. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>Stockton is celebrating 150 years since its founding. Other blocks note important businesses and dates, including blocks that honor a past police chief and optometrist.Each of the blocks has its own story, Prockish said. The council committee working on the wall hopes to create a webpage on the city's website that will tell the story of each block. A sign will be erected at the site that will help people link to that page."It's only been a week and it's been amazing. People have been popping in, 'Do you have room for mine?' " Prockish said of the barn quilt blocks. The wall has space for 135 or more blocks. The second phase of the project will start in January.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667417969679.jpeg" alt="The quilt block on the right was created in honor of a local woman's dog. The project is accepting sponsorships for the second phase of the barn quilt project. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post. " />
 <figcaption>The quilt block on the right was created in honor of a local woman's dog. The project is accepting sponsorships for the second phase of the barn quilt project. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post. </figcaption>
 </figure>If you want more information on the Stockton barn quilt project, you can follow the project on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083094952300">Facebook</a>. The arts council would also like to sponsor barn quilt walls in other communities in Rooks County, but the council is looking for people to spearhead the projects in those towns.Prockish said she hopes the barn quilts will make Rooks County a destination for those travelers who want to get off the beaten path. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e338090c-30ab-4595-b58f-ea12bfdc547c">The arts council also sponsored a new mural on the corner of U.S. Highway 24 and U.S. 183. That mural is nearing completion.</a>

Stockton completes first phase of barn quilt project

A new mural in the style of an old-fashioned postcard is nearing completion on the corner of U.S. 183 and U.S. 24 in Stockton.

Artist Matt Miller of Hays has been hired by the Rooks County Arts Council to paint the mural.

It is one of the first projects completed by the newly re-formed arts council. The $16,000 cost of the project was funded through private donations and grants.

The mural reads "Greetings from Stockton." Each letter in the word Stockton depicts a landmark or other aspect of the community. 

The "S" depicts the road signs for U.S. 183 and U.S. 24. The "T" contains tiger stripes for the Stockton High School mascot. The first "O" contains an image of an oil pumping unit.

The "C" contains an image of the Rooks County Fair grandstands. The grandstands were a WPA project that was built in the 1930s, Miller said.

The "K" depicts a man fishing in honor of Webster Lake and other nearby wildlife areas. The second "T" contains an image of the Stockton water tower. The second "O" depicts the Rooks County Courthouse, and the "N" contains an image of the historic Nova Theatre and bowling pins for the local bowling alley.

The background of the mural is an image of a field of milo being harvested. Pheasants are seen being flushed from the milo field, and deer are standing on the bluff beyond.

On the top of the bluff are the silhouettes of cavalrymen that were placed on the bluff as you enter Stockton from the south. Those silhouettes were installed years ago by the former Stockton arts council.

Miller has been painting for about eight weeks. He has stayed in Stockton in a tiny house that he moved to the local park.

He designed the mural in a software program, using photographs he took of the landmarks for reference.

Nancy Becker, Rooks County Arts Council member, said local volunteers gave input on the design during a Zoom call.

"There are so many like that," Becker said of the mural design, "but we wanted one that would tell the story of our town and our community.

"We hope it's the first of more murals in town. This one really hit the mark in terms of what we wanted to start out with."

One of the challenges of the project was getting the outline of the image on the wall, which is 42 by 17 feet, Miller said.

Miller projected the image on the wall and traced the outlines night after night with his projector mounted on top of his car.

Miller has done two murals in Hays — <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6bb3bfe4-ed00-43eb-87ed-eee70888ac9a">buffalo dancers at the State Glass Co., 421 Main</a>, and <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f3f18a37-8dd4-4b1c-a934-490422d12346">a dragon mural on the side of the Sake2Me building, 803 Fort.</a>

Miller said he has an interest in murals from a couple of other communities. He said he also looks forward to returning to his plein air painting and studio work.

"I just like being outside," Miller said. "That's the main thing."

Miller said he has had a good response to the mural. On Monday, a couple from Pennsylvania was driving through town and stopped to talk to Miller about the mural.

Becker said some community members have been driving by every day to watch the mural's progress. Some had contests going to see what image would be in the next letter of the mural.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/35723584-3350-4e12-8d7e-37632506c31a">The arts council also sponsored a barn quilt wall on the city utility building on the west side of town. The first phase of that project was finished last week.</a>

"We've had a lot of excitement with both of these projects finishing at the same time," Becker said. "It's been pretty fun hearing from people on both of these big projects that are happening. It stimulated a lot of excitement and curiosity."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667490827992.jpeg" alt="A new mural in Stockton, which was sponsored by the Rooks County Arts Council, is in the style of an old-fashioned postcard. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>A new mural in Stockton, which was sponsored by the Rooks County Arts Council, is in the style of an old-fashioned postcard. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA new mural in the style of an old-fashioned postcard is nearing completion on the corner of U.S. 183 and U.S. 24 in Stockton.Artist Matt Miller of Hays has been hired by the Rooks County Arts Council to paint the mural.It is one of the first projects completed by the newly re-formed arts council. The $16,000 cost of the project was funded through private donations and grants.The mural reads "Greetings from Stockton." Each letter in the word Stockton depicts a landmark or other aspect of the community. The "S" depicts the road signs for U.S. 183 and U.S. 24. The "T" contains tiger stripes for the Stockton High School mascot. The first "O" contains an image of an oil pumping unit.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667490920110.jpeg" alt="Hays artist Matt Miller has spent eight weeks painting the 42-by-17-foot mural in downtown Stockton. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Hays artist Matt Miller has spent eight weeks painting the 42-by-17-foot mural in downtown Stockton. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>The "C" contains an image of the Rooks County Fair grandstands. The grandstands were a WPA project that was built in the 1930s, Miller said. The "K" depicts a man fishing in honor of Webster Lake and other nearby wildlife areas. The second "T" contains an image of the Stockton water tower. The second "O" depicts the Rooks County Courthouse, and the "N" contains an image of the historic Nova Theatre and bowling pins for the local bowling alley.The background of the mural is an image of a field of milo being harvested. Pheasants are seen being flushed from the milo field, and deer are standing on the bluff beyond.On the top of the bluff are the silhouettes of cavalrymen that were placed on the bluff as you enter Stockton from the south. Those silhouettes were installed years ago by the former Stockton arts council.Miller has been painting for about eight weeks. He has stayed in Stockton in a tiny house that he moved to the local park.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667490962657.jpeg" alt="The new Stockton mural is on the southeast side of the corner of U.S. Highway 183 and U.S. 24 in Stockton. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>The new Stockton mural is on the southeast side of the corner of U.S. Highway 183 and U.S. 24 in Stockton. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>He designed the mural in a software program, using photographs he took of the landmarks for reference.Nancy Becker, Rooks County Arts Council member, said local volunteers gave input on the design during a Zoom call."There are so many like that," Becker said of the mural design, "but we wanted one that would tell the story of our town and our community. "We hope it's the first of more murals in town. This one really hit the mark in terms of what we wanted to start out with." One of the challenges of the project was getting the outline of the image on the wall, which is 42 by 17 feet, Miller said. Miller projected the image on the wall and traced the outlines night after night with his projector mounted on top of his car.Miller has done two murals in Hays — <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/6bb3bfe4-ed00-43eb-87ed-eee70888ac9a">buffalo dancers at the State Glass Co., 421 Main</a>, and <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f3f18a37-8dd4-4b1c-a934-490422d12346">a dragon mural on the side of the Sake2Me building, 803 Fort.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667500923411.jpeg" alt="Hays artist Matt Miller paints a fisherman in the "K" of the new Stockton mural. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Hays artist Matt Miller paints a fisherman in the "K" of the new Stockton mural. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>Miller said he has an interest in murals from a couple of other communities. He said he also looks forward to returning to his plein air painting and studio work. "I just like being outside," Miller said. "That's the main thing." Miller said he has had a good response to the mural. On Monday, a couple from Pennsylvania was driving through town and stopped to talk to Miller about the mural.Becker said some community members have been driving by every day to watch the mural's progress. Some had contests going to see what image would be in the next letter of the mural.&nbsp; <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/35723584-3350-4e12-8d7e-37632506c31a">The arts council also sponsored a barn quilt wall on the city utility building on the west side of town. The first phase of that project was finished last week.</a>"We've had a lot of excitement with both of these projects finishing at the same time," Becker said. "It's been pretty fun hearing from people on both of these big projects that are happening. It stimulated a lot of excitement and curiosity."

Revived arts council in Rooks County sponsors Stockton mural

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Russell Development is a group of business individuals that have been working for some time to transform the former Holland Hotel into loft-style apartments. Tuesday the group got some big help as Governor Laura Kelly announced the city of Russell would be receiving $1 million to increase affordable and moderate-income housing. 

The funds will be allocated from a house bill Kelly signed in May, and Russell Mayor Jim Cross said Rep. Troy Waymaster was of big assistance on the project. Cross said the city hopes to turn the hotel into as many as 11 apartments.

"The initial project started out thinking maybe seven (apartments)," he said. "After further study of the building, and having an engineer look at it, the expectations got a little higher."

The apartments will likely be studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units. There will be many costs associated with the transformation inside and outside of the 112-year-old building. 

"To get everything up to code, I'm sure it's going to take every bit of that $1 million grant we received," Cross said.

The next step is getting bids for the project. Cross said locking down numbers sooner rather than later could be cost-beneficial, and getting contractors inside the building will help determine the new layout.

"You know the price of materials is not going to go down," he said. "As soon as you can get things procured and get some of those things in to try to keep the costs down, we're going to do that.

"It could be that we end up with less studio, more bedroom-type apartments, or the other way around, depending on what is there and what we can get bids taken for."

The former hotel sat vacant for two decades. Apartments are expected to range from 700 to 1,100 square feet and rent for $575 to $725 a month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667498315486.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostRussell Development is a group of business individuals that have been working for some time to transform the former Holland Hotel into loft-style apartments. Tuesday the group got some big help as Governor Laura Kelly announced the city of Russell would be receiving $1 million to increase affordable and moderate-income housing. The funds will be allocated from a house bill Kelly signed in May, and Russell Mayor Jim Cross said Rep. Troy Waymaster was of big assistance on the project. Cross said the city hopes to turn the hotel into as many as 11 apartments."The initial project started out thinking maybe seven (apartments)," he said. "After further study of the building, and having an engineer look at it, the expectations got a little higher."The apartments will likely be studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units. There will be many costs associated with the transformation inside and outside of the 112-year-old building. "To get everything up to code, I'm sure it's going to take every bit of that $1 million grant we received," Cross said.The next step is getting bids for the project. Cross said locking down numbers sooner rather than later could be cost-beneficial, and getting contractors inside the building will help determine the new layout."You know the price of materials is not going to go down," he said. "As soon as you can get things procured and get some of those things in to try to keep the costs down, we're going to do that."It could be that we end up with less studio, more bedroom-type apartments, or the other way around, depending on what is there and what we can get bids taken for."The former hotel sat vacant for two decades. Apartments are expected to range from 700 to 1,100 square feet and rent for $575 to $725 a month.

Russell ready to use 'every bit' of $1M grant on apartments

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hays is moving into the high holiday season, packed with lots of fun events and activities for everyone.

Janet Kuhn, convention sales manager of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, highlights some of the November happenings.

For an up-to-the-minute list of activities, check the Hays CVB calendar at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643752861736.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays is moving into the high holiday season, packed with lots of fun events and activities for everyone.Janet Kuhn, convention sales manager of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, highlights some of the November happenings.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/iFHLMupK-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Cvb Nov" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667578184093.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For an up-to-the-minute list of activities, check the Hays CVB calendar at <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">www.visithays.com</a>.

🎥 CVB: Holiday season kicks off in Hays this month

After Thursday night's line of storms stayed east and south of Hays and Ellis County, the National Weather Service in Dodge City is now predicting another front late will pass into the area.

There is a 60 percent chance of showers after 5 p.m., although the NWS is only predicting a tenth of an inch of rain. That rain could turn to snow as the mercury dives. Less than an inch of accumulation is possible.

The high temperature Friday is now only expected to reach 42 degrees, dipping to an overnight low of 26.&nbsp;

Skies will clear by Saturday and the temperature will jump back up to the low-to mid-60s through the weekend.

Hays did receive some moisture Thursday, but less than a tenth of an inch. The area remains about 7 inches behind average year-to-date precipitation, according to the K-State Ag Research Center in Hays.

After Thursday night's line of storms stayed east and south of Hays and Ellis County, the National Weather Service in Dodge City is now predicting another front late will pass into the area.There is a 60 percent chance of showers after 5 p.m., although the NWS is only predicting a tenth of an inch of rain. That rain could turn to snow as the mercury dives. Less than an inch of accumulation is possible.The high temperature Friday is now only expected to reach 42 degrees, dipping to an overnight low of 26.&nbsp;Skies will clear by Saturday and the temperature will jump back up to the low-to mid-60s through the weekend.Hays did receive some moisture Thursday, but less than a tenth of an inch. The area remains about 7 inches behind average year-to-date precipitation, according to the K-State Ag Research Center in Hays.

Thursday's rains missed; now Hays could be in store for ... snow?

Science is always growing and changing, due to the dedicated individuals who continue to ask questions and search for answers.

For paleontologists, Bruce A. Schumacher and Michael J. Everhart, adjunct curators for the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, their endeavor to understand the past brought them to review an old elasmosaurid specimen. What they uncovered was an entirely new species of elasmosaur. 

The review of the old elasmosaurid skeleton (UNSM 50134) known as the ‘Holyrood elasmosaur’ was prompted after another partial skeleton was recovered in southeastern Colorado. The Holyrood elasmosaur was collected by George F. Sternberg and Myrl V. Walker in 1931 in Ellsworth County near the small town of Holyrood. Later, the specimen was sold to the University of Nebraska State Museum where it has remained ever since. Although the specimen was an interesting find, it wasn’t thoroughly investigated until recently. 

Upon further inspection, Schumacher and Everhart discovered that the Holyrood elasmosaur holds a distinctive suite of plesiomorphic characteristics, which had not been documented before within Elasmosauridae.

These characteristics are enough to support the claim that a third group of elasmosaurids existed in the Western Interior Seaway. In honor of Myrl V. Walker, the new genus and species has been named Plesioelasmosaurus walkeri. Schumacher and Everhart’s paper about Plesioelasmosaurus walkeri1&nbsp;is published in the 2022 fall issue of the Transactions of the Kansas Academy of Science Journal.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667504107278.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>Sternberg Museum Science is always growing and changing, due to the dedicated individuals who continue to ask questions and search for answers.For paleontologists, Bruce A. Schumacher and Michael J. Everhart, adjunct curators for the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, their endeavor to understand the past brought them to review an old elasmosaurid specimen. What they uncovered was an entirely new species of elasmosaur. The review of the old elasmosaurid skeleton (UNSM 50134) known as the ‘Holyrood elasmosaur’ was prompted after another partial skeleton was recovered in southeastern Colorado. The Holyrood elasmosaur was collected by George F. Sternberg and Myrl V. Walker in 1931 in Ellsworth County near the small town of Holyrood. Later, the specimen was sold to the University of Nebraska State Museum where it has remained ever since. Although the specimen was an interesting find, it wasn’t thoroughly investigated until recently. Upon further inspection, Schumacher and Everhart discovered that the Holyrood elasmosaur holds a distinctive suite of plesiomorphic characteristics, which had not been documented before within Elasmosauridae.These characteristics are enough to support the claim that a third group of elasmosaurids existed in the Western Interior Seaway. In honor of Myrl V. Walker, the new genus and species has been named Plesioelasmosaurus walkeri. Schumacher and Everhart’s paper about Plesioelasmosaurus walkeri1&nbsp;is published in the 2022 fall issue of the Transactions of the Kansas Academy of Science Journal.

Sternberg curators discover new species of elasmosaur in old specimen

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

STOCKTON — A Rooks County man pleaded guilty this week to involuntary
manslaughter in a DUI-related accident that killed a 16 year-old Plainville
girl in April 2021.

Zebulun Thomas Cole, 22, Stockton, pleaded guilty in Rooks
County District Court on Wednesday to involuntary manslaughter while under the
influence of alcohol.

As a result of the plea agreement, Cole, who was 20 at the
time of the accident, admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol on
April 29, 2021, and causing a crash the resulted in the death of 16-year-old Carole
Leanne Adamson of Plainville.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, Cole was driving westbound at approximately 9:30 p.m. on April 28, 2021, when his pickup hit an SUV
that was disabled on the side of Kansas 18 west of Plainville. 

The collision caused the SUV to strike and kill Adamson, who
was standing next to it.

An Iowa woman, Maranda Payton-Louise Kuhl, was also injured
in the accident when the SUV hit a Dodge pickup she was standing next to.

An investigation into the accident determined Cole was
under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.

According to court documents, Cole agreed to serve 41 months, or
three years and five months, in prison. He will also be responsible for pay for
Adamson’s funeral expenses and travel expenses for Kuhl to attend the
preliminary hearing.

As a result of the plea agreement the prosecution agreed to
dismiss a felony aggravated battery, DUI causing great bodily harm charge, and
misdemeanor charges of driving while under the influence of alcohol, consumption of alcohol by a minor, and speeding.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostSTOCKTON — A Rooks County man pleaded guilty this week to involuntary
manslaughter in a DUI-related accident that killed a 16 year-old Plainville
girl in April 2021.Zebulun Thomas Cole, 22, Stockton, pleaded guilty in Rooks
County District Court on Wednesday to involuntary manslaughter while under the
influence of alcohol.As a result of the plea agreement, Cole, who was 20 at the
time of the accident, admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol on
April 29, 2021, and causing a crash the resulted in the death of 16-year-old Carole
Leanne Adamson of Plainville.According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, Cole was driving westbound at approximately 9:30 p.m. on April 28, 2021, when his pickup hit an SUV
that was disabled on the side of Kansas 18 west of Plainville. The collision caused the SUV to strike and kill Adamson, who
was standing next to it.An Iowa woman, Maranda Payton-Louise Kuhl, was also injured
in the accident when the SUV hit a Dodge pickup she was standing next to.An investigation into the accident determined Cole was
under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.According to court documents, Cole agreed to serve 41 months, or
three years and five months, in prison. He will also be responsible for pay for
Adamson’s funeral expenses and travel expenses for Kuhl to attend the
preliminary hearing.As a result of the plea agreement the prosecution agreed to
dismiss a felony aggravated battery, DUI causing great bodily harm charge, and
misdemeanor charges of driving while under the influence of alcohol, consumption of alcohol by a minor, and speeding.

Rooks Co. man pleads guilty in fatal DUI accident

The 8-1 Hays High Indians move onto the regional round of the 5A Kansas football playoffs Friday night.

The Indians will square off at home against Valley Center, which is 7-2 entering the game.

The game will be broadcast on <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">96.9 KFIX</a> and <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d79df6af-fe97-422d-aece-fd2c7b1fe497">streamed live on Hays Post.</a>&nbsp;Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

Eagle Radio on Hays will also broadcast these area playoff games:

• Victoria vs. Minneola, <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KHAZ">KHAZ</a>&nbsp;at 6 p.m. • Thunder Ridge vs. Jetmore-Hodgeman County, <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KJLS">KJLS</a>&nbsp;at 6 p.m. • Hill City vs. WaKeeney-Trego Community, <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KKQY">KKQY</a>&nbsp;at 7 p.m.

The Hays High Indians host the Valley Center Hornets in the Regional Round of the 5A playoffs Friday night at Lewis Field in Hays.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/457935">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Hays PostThe 8-1 Hays High Indians move onto the regional round of the 5A Kansas football playoffs Friday night.The Indians will square off at home against Valley Center, which is 7-2 entering the game.The game will be broadcast on <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">96.9 KFIX</a> and <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d79df6af-fe97-422d-aece-fd2c7b1fe497">streamed live on Hays Post.</a>&nbsp;Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.Eagle Radio on Hays will also broadcast these area playoff games:• Victoria vs. Minneola, <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KHAZ">KHAZ</a>&nbsp;at 6 p.m. • Thunder Ridge vs. Jetmore-Hodgeman County, <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KJLS">KJLS</a>&nbsp;at 6 p.m. • Hill City vs. WaKeeney-Trego Community, <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KKQY">KKQY</a>&nbsp;at 7 p.m.The Hays High Indians host the Valley Center Hornets in the Regional Round of the 5A playoffs Friday night at Lewis Field in Hays.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/457935">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Hays, other area playoff games will be broadcast Friday

By LAAH TUCKER Special to Hays Post

NATOMA — American Legion Auxiliary national, state and Kansas district 6 officers and members gathered for a fall conference of the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion on Oct. 22 in Natoma.

Post 109 and Unit 109 hosted the event in the newly restored WWII Army Air Corps barrack.

Post 109 Commander William Workman and Unit 109 President Laah Tucker welcomed members and guests.

The morning joint session provided Kansas Legion Commander Jeremy Ehart, Topeka, to present the national campaign, “Be the One," emphasizing the need to combat veterans’ PTSD and suicides.

Alton Unit President Peggy Anschutz presented a solemn remembrance for POWs.

Following a full morning of presentations, updates, and planning, Natoma Auxiliary members served a full course noon dinner to guests.

The auxiliary’s afternoon session included updates by President Marsha Cottrell, Kansas president; Nancy Evans, district president; Jeanne Haas, national poppy chair; Cindy Ward, fundraising; Bonnie Axtell, district 6 secretary, and others.

Since 1919, auxiliary members have worked tirelessly by volunteering thousands of hours annually to uplift active military, veterans, their families, children, youth, and community.

Natoma American Legion Auxiliary will host the 13th-annual Veterans Salute with Natoma USD 399 students, from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 10. Veterans and members of the community are invited to attend “Every Hero Has a Story” exhibit, veteran-student panel discussion, patriotic musical production with American Legion color guard, bagpiper, and special guests.

Veterans are invited to a noon dinner with students by calling Shawna Dunlap at 785-885-4478.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667316112979.jpeg" alt="American Legion Auxiliary national, state, and Kansas District 6 officers and members gathered for a fall conference of the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, and Sons of the American Legion, Saturday, Oct. 22 in Natoma. Auxiliary Unit 109 co-hosted the event with the Post 109 members in the newly restored American Legion Hall, a former WWII Army Air Corps barrack moved to the current sight in October 1947. Photo by Laah Tucker " />
 <figcaption>American Legion Auxiliary national, state, and Kansas District 6 officers and members gathered for a fall conference of the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, and Sons of the American Legion, Saturday, Oct. 22 in Natoma. Auxiliary Unit 109 co-hosted the event with the Post 109 members in the newly restored American Legion Hall, a former WWII Army Air Corps barrack moved to the current sight in October 1947. Photo by Laah Tucker </figcaption>
 </figure>By LAAH TUCKER Special to Hays Post NATOMA — American Legion Auxiliary national, state and Kansas district 6 officers and members gathered for a fall conference of the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion on Oct. 22 in Natoma.Post 109 and Unit 109 hosted the event in the newly restored WWII Army Air Corps barrack.Post 109 Commander William Workman and Unit 109 President Laah Tucker welcomed members and guests.The morning joint session provided Kansas Legion Commander Jeremy Ehart, Topeka, to present the national campaign, “Be the One," emphasizing the need to combat veterans’ PTSD and suicides.Alton Unit President Peggy Anschutz presented a solemn remembrance for POWs.Following a full morning of presentations, updates, and planning, Natoma Auxiliary members served a full course noon dinner to guests.The auxiliary’s afternoon session included updates by President Marsha Cottrell, Kansas president; Nancy Evans, district president; Jeanne Haas, national poppy chair; Cindy Ward, fundraising; Bonnie Axtell, district 6 secretary, and others.Since 1919, auxiliary members have worked tirelessly by volunteering thousands of hours annually to uplift active military, veterans, their families, children, youth, and community.Natoma American Legion Auxiliary will host the 13th-annual Veterans Salute with Natoma USD 399 students, from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 10. Veterans and members of the community are invited to attend “Every Hero Has a Story” exhibit, veteran-student panel discussion, patriotic musical production with American Legion color guard, bagpiper, and special guests.Veterans are invited to a noon dinner with students by calling Shawna Dunlap at 785-885-4478.

American Legion Auxiliary members gather for fall conference in Natoma

<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/2022/11/1667501894333.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

A fire more than two weeks ago that started in Ness
County and spread into neighboring Ellis and Trego counties burned approximately
14,000 acres, according to the Kansas Forest Service.

Ellis County Fire Chief Darin Myers told the Ellis County
Commission on Tuesday that officials estimated nearly 10,200 acres of grassland were
burned in Ellis County in the Oct. 23 fire in the southwestern portion of the
county.

According to Myers, the fire started at an oil tank battery
site just off Highway 4 northwest of McCracken. 

Ellis County crews were initially asked to help crews in
Ness County fight the fire just before 3:30 p.m., but Myers said by the time crews
arrived in the area, it had spread into Ellis County. 

Myers said they believe an electric spark or malfunction at
the site ignited the fire that spread northwest into southwest Ellis
County fueled by dry conditions and wind gusts of more than 60 mph.

“It grew all the way north to Antonino Road and east all the
way to 150th Avenue,” Myers said. “The fire was just about 10 miles
long.”

Myers said that no homes were damaged or lost in the fire, although a metal building along Ellis Avenue was destroyed in the fire.

“I can't explain what it's like to be out there,” Myers said.
“When you have zero visibility, not just from the dust but from the soot. The
smoke and an orange glow coming at you, and you can feel the heat — but you can't
see the fire, and you're trying to put it out.”

Trego County Emergency Manager Kathleen Fabrizius estimated between 1,000 and 1,200 acres of grassland burned in the fire in Trego County, but no structures were damaged. 

Trego County crews were pulled off that fire to help fight a
second fire in Trego County that day. 

Fabrizius said seven homes were evacuated as a result of
the fire south of WaKeeney that burned approximately 200 acres. No structures were
damaged or lost in that fire.

Ellis County Public Works lost a piece of equipment in the
fire along Ellis Avenue. Public Works had several road construction and
maintenance vehicles in that area preparing for construction work on the southern
portion of Ellis Avenue.

Ellis County crews spent about 12 hours fighting the fire and remained on scene well into the next day to monitor for hotspots.

Because the fire was in such a remote area of the county, Myers said it made it challenging for crews to gain access to the fire.

“By the time I went from one part
of the county to get to the fire on completely the other side (of the county), because
it is in an open range portion of the county where there are no county roads,
it took 16.3 miles for me to get around it from one side to the other,” Myers said.

Myers also told the county commission Tuesday he was grateful for all the help received from not only Ellis County EMS, sheriff’s office, Public Works, Ellis Police and Hays personnel but also from the farmers and
businesses in the region.

“The farmers that were out there with their plows and their
discs and their tractors is another great benefit that we have that they're out
there willing to help,” Myer said.

There were some farmers who had equipment damaged by the
fire while helping to work the fire line, according to Myers. 

It was the second largest fire Myers said he has seen in the
seven years that he has severed with the Ellis County Fire Department apart from the Four
County Fire last December.

The county fire department will take part in a meeting later
this month that will act as an after-action review.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667486234308.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell / Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell / Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostA fire more than two weeks ago that started in Ness
County and spread into neighboring Ellis and Trego counties burned approximately
14,000 acres, according to the Kansas Forest Service.Ellis County Fire Chief Darin Myers told the Ellis County
Commission on Tuesday that officials estimated nearly 10,200 acres of grassland were
burned in Ellis County in the Oct. 23 fire in the southwestern portion of the
county.According to Myers, the fire started at an oil tank battery
site just off Highway 4 northwest of McCracken. Ellis County crews were initially asked to help crews in
Ness County fight the fire just before 3:30 p.m., but Myers said by the time crews
arrived in the area, it had spread into Ellis County. Myers said they believe an electric spark or malfunction at
the site ignited the fire that spread northwest into southwest Ellis
County fueled by dry conditions and wind gusts of more than 60 mph.“It grew all the way north to Antonino Road and east all the
way to 150th Avenue,” Myers said. “The fire was just about 10 miles
long.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667486266765.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell / Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell / Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Myers said that no homes were damaged or lost in the fire, although a metal building along Ellis Avenue was destroyed in the fire.“I can't explain what it's like to be out there,” Myers said.
“When you have zero visibility, not just from the dust but from the soot. The
smoke and an orange glow coming at you, and you can feel the heat — but you can't
see the fire, and you're trying to put it out.”Trego County Emergency Manager Kathleen Fabrizius estimated between 1,000 and 1,200 acres of grassland burned in the fire in Trego County, but no structures were damaged. Trego County crews were pulled off that fire to help fight a
second fire in Trego County that day. Fabrizius said seven homes were evacuated as a result of
the fire south of WaKeeney that burned approximately 200 acres. No structures were
damaged or lost in that fire.Ellis County Public Works lost a piece of equipment in the
fire along Ellis Avenue. Public Works had several road construction and
maintenance vehicles in that area preparing for construction work on the southern
portion of Ellis Avenue.Ellis County crews spent about 12 hours fighting the fire and remained on scene well into the next day to monitor for hotspots.Because the fire was in such a remote area of the county, Myers said it made it challenging for crews to gain access to the fire.“By the time I went from one part
of the county to get to the fire on completely the other side (of the county), because
it is in an open range portion of the county where there are no county roads,
it took 16.3 miles for me to get around it from one side to the other,” Myers said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667486495518.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell / Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell / Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Myers also told the county commission Tuesday he was grateful for all the help received from not only Ellis County EMS, sheriff’s office, Public Works, Ellis Police and Hays personnel but also from the farmers and
businesses in the region.“The farmers that were out there with their plows and their
discs and their tractors is another great benefit that we have that they're out
there willing to help,” Myer said.There were some farmers who had equipment damaged by the
fire while helping to work the fire line, according to Myers. It was the second largest fire Myers said he has seen in the
seven years that he has severed with the Ellis County Fire Department apart from the Four
County Fire last December.The county fire department will take part in a meeting later
this month that will act as an after-action review.

10-mile-long wildfire burned 14,000 acres in Ellis, Ness, Trego counties

A new women's boutique, Sunflower and Silos, 115 W. Eighth, is set to have its grand opening next weekend in downtown Hays.

Owner Kate Schippers of Hays said the store will carry women's apparel from sizes small to 3X as well as purses, accessories, shoes, hats, lotions and candles. 

Schippers is opening with a limited selection of girls clothes sizes 0-3 months to 5T. If those sell well, she will be expanding those offerings to include boys clothes in the same sizes.

Schippers husband, Pierce, is from Hays, and the couple relocated back to Hays with their son and daughter four years ago.

Opening a boutique has always been her dream, Schippers said.

"Downtown Hays is so beautiful," she said. "So many people come here. This a perfect place to do it. That was our whole strategy. We wanted the big city feel in the small town."

Schipper's brother-in-law renovated the storefront on Eighth Street, which had been an Escape Room. This includes the custom-made table and wine-cork bar in the Silo. The business is renting the building.

"This whole process has been family driven every step of the way, including design meetings every Tuesday evening," Schippers said.  

"This business has a lot of blood, sweat and tears involved and has done nothing but bring us back to living in the same state again.  My sister is going to help me run it, and my mom will be down there helping me run it when I can't be there."

The style of the clothing at the store will range from contemporary to southwest. Schippers is working on bringing in several brand names to the store, including Wrangler, Kimes Ranch and Ariat.

"You could pick something if you were going to go to the rodeo or concert or to a Christmas party or to work," Schipper said. "There will be casual, some dressy and everything in between."

Purse brands will include Myra and American Darling. The soaps and lotions will be Barr-Co. The candles are 1803 brand.

Prices will be mid-range, Schippers said, with items in the $20 to $50 range. The American Darling purses are leather and will run about $175 to $250.

The back of the store, "The Silo," will be a hat and accessories bar.

The store will have charms and feathers customers will be able to add to their hats. They will also have branding irons that can be use to burn brands into the hats. The store will also have kids' sizes in the hats.

Schippers said she is also considering having denim-jacket-decorating or make-your-own-bolo events.

Kate and her husband are working on a liquor license, so bridal showers, girls weekends, birthdays or other events in the Silo can have alcohol.

The Silo, which can accommodate about 15 people, is also available for rent for other events. Kate said she has a child's birthday party booked for the space soon after store's opening. 

Schippers is also working on a back patio that will be an extension of the the Silo.

An art student at Fort Hays State University painted a mural on one wall of the shop, which Schippers said will be a fun backdrop for photos during events.

"It's going to be more than a boutique, it's going to be an experience," she said.

The store will be open 10 a.m to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. You can follow the business on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SunflowersandSilos">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667330845001.jpeg" alt="Kate Schippers of Hays is the owner of the new boutique in downtown Hays, Sunflowers and Silos, 115 W. Eighth, Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Kate Schippers of Hays is the owner of the new boutique in downtown Hays, Sunflowers and Silos, 115 W. Eighth, Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA new women's boutique, Sunflower and Silos, 115 W. Eighth, is set to have its grand opening next weekend in downtown Hays.Owner Kate Schippers of Hays said the store will carry women's apparel from sizes small to 3X as well as purses, accessories, shoes, hats, lotions and candles. Schippers is opening with a limited selection of girls clothes sizes 0-3 months to 5T. If those sell well, she will be expanding those offerings to include boys clothes in the same sizes.Schippers husband, Pierce, is from Hays, and the couple relocated back to Hays with their son and daughter four years ago.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667330797362.jpeg" alt="Kate Schippers poses next to a rack of purses at Sunflowers and Silos. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Kate Schippers poses next to a rack of purses at Sunflowers and Silos. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>Opening a boutique has always been her dream, Schippers said."Downtown Hays is so beautiful," she said. "So many people come here. This a perfect place to do it. That was our whole strategy. We wanted the big city feel in the small town."The store will be family-run. Schipper's brother-in-law renovated the storefront on Eighth Street, which had been an Escape Room. This includes the custom-made table and wine-cork bar in the Silo. The business is renting the building."This whole process has been family driven every step of the way, including design meetings every Tuesday evening," Schippers said. "This business has a lot of blood, sweat and tears involved and has done nothing but bring us back to living in the same state again. My sister is going to help me run it, and my mom will be down there helping me run it when I can't be there."The style of the clothing at the store will range from contemporary to southwest. Schippers is working on bringing in several brand names to the store, including Wrangler, Kimes Ranch and Ariat."You could pick something if you were going to go to the rodeo or concert or to a Christmas party or to work," Schipper said. "There will be casual, some dressy and everything in between."Purse brands will include Myra and American Darling. The soaps and lotions will be Barr-Co. The candles are 1803 brand.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667330828738.jpeg" alt="Sunflowers and Silos will carry girls' clothing sizes 0-3 months to 5T. The store also will carry women's clothing sizes small through 3X. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Sunflowers and Silos will carry girls' clothing sizes 0-3 months to 5T. The store also will carry women's clothing sizes small through 3X. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>Prices will be mid-range, Schippers said, with items in the $20 to $50 range. The American Darling purses are leather and will run about $175 to $250. The back of the store, "The Silo," will be a hat and accessories bar. The store will have charms and feathers customers will be able to add to their hats. They will also have branding irons that can be use to burn brands into the hats. The store will also have kids' sizes in the hats.Schippers said she is also considering having denim-jacket-decorating or make-your-own-bolo events.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667331130993.jpeg" alt="The Silo will be a hat and accessories bar in the rear of Sunflowers and Silos. The space will be available to rent for events or used for custom designing hats and accessories. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>The Silo will be a hat and accessories bar in the rear of Sunflowers and Silos. The space will be available to rent for events or used for custom designing hats and accessories. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>Kate and her husband are working on a liquor license, so bridal showers, girls weekends, birthdays or other events in the Silo can have alcohol.The Silo, which can accommodate about 15 people, is also available for rent for other events. Kate said she has a child's birthday party booked for the space soon after store's opening. Schippers is also working on a back patio that will be an extension of the the Silo.An art student at Fort Hays State University painted a mural on one wall of the shop, which Schippers said will be a fun backdrop for photos during events. "It's going to be more than a boutique, it's going to be an experience," she said.The store will be open 10 a.m to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. You can follow the business on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SunflowersandSilos">Facebook</a>.

Sunflowers and Silos boutique to open next weekend in downtown Hays

HaysMed invites you to celebrate Forensic Nurses Week (Nov. 6-12.

Forensic Nurses Week is designated to recognize the dedicated nurses who provide exceptional care to patients impacted by violence, abuse, and trauma.

Forensic nurses have the knowledge and expertise to decrease the health care consequences of violence, improve patient recovery and lower health care costs.

As the fastest growing nursing specialty, forensic nursing serves to ensure that patients who are affected by violence receive expert, compassionate and comprehensive care.

HaysMed is proud to have a team of six specially trained forensic nurses to serve Ellis County and surrounding communities.

The Forensic Program provides a vital resource to ensure patients affected by violence receive the specialized care they deserve.

In 2021, HaysMed added two new nurses to its team and provided care to more than 80 patients.

Communities that promote forensic nursing arm themselves with the vital resources to combat the short- and long- term health consequences of violence and abuse, launch effective prevention efforts, and ensure the administration of justice.

To learn more about HaysMed Forensic Nurses, contact Cammie Townley at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cammie.townley@haysmed.com" target="_blank">cammie.townley@haysmed.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667402180755.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedHaysMed invites you to celebrate Forensic Nurses Week (Nov. 6-12.Forensic Nurses Week is designated to recognize the dedicated nurses who provide exceptional care to patients impacted by violence, abuse, and trauma.Forensic nurses have the knowledge and expertise to decrease the health care consequences of violence, improve patient recovery and lower health care costs.As the fastest growing nursing specialty, forensic nursing serves to ensure that patients who are affected by violence receive expert, compassionate and comprehensive care.HaysMed is proud to have a team of six specially trained forensic nurses to serve Ellis County and surrounding communities.The Forensic Program provides a vital resource to ensure patients affected by violence receive the specialized care they deserve.In 2021, HaysMed added two new nurses to its team and provided care to more than 80 patients.Communities that promote forensic nursing arm themselves with the vital resources to combat the short- and long- term health consequences of violence and abuse, launch effective prevention efforts, and ensure the administration of justice.To learn more about HaysMed Forensic Nurses, contact Cammie Townley at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cammie.townley@haysmed.com" target="_blank">cammie.townley@haysmed.com.</a>

HaysMed celebrates Forensics Nurses Week

COLBY — Three on a String&nbsp;performs all kinds of music from old standards, country, classical, bluegrass and folk. Jerry Ryan, Bobby Horton, Brad Ryan and Andy&nbsp;Megginnis&nbsp;have been having a good time right along with their audiences all over the country for 50 years. At 3 p.m. Central on Sunday, Nov. 13, the Cultural Arts Center in Colby will be the site for these gents to perform their unique&nbsp;four-part harmony.&nbsp;Their &nbsp;pleasing&nbsp;blend of voices and instruments, from a heartrending country song to an unexpected a cappella rendition,&nbsp;is&nbsp;suitable for the entire family. Three on a String’s show has evolved into a well-timed, musically interesting and funny presentation. &nbsp;

Three on a String has enjoyed working with performers such as the Statler Brothers, Ray Stevens, The Oak Ridge Boys, Hank Williams Jr., and Red Skelton. They have shared the stage with former Presidents Ronald Reagan and George Bush. They have performed for, and with, symphony orchestras, arts councils,&nbsp;conventions and&nbsp;concerts. &nbsp;Among their many awards, they were honored to receive the Governor's Achievement Award and inducted into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame.

The performance is funded in part by grants from both the Thomas County Community Foundation through Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation and the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Admission is with&nbsp;WPAA&nbsp;season ticket, or at the door; Adults, $20; Students, $10.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667313056143.png" alt="<a href="https://www.threeonastring.com/">threeonastring.com</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.threeonastring.com/">threeonastring.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>WPAACOLBY — Three on a String&nbsp;performs all kinds of music from old standards, country, classical, bluegrass and folk. Jerry Ryan, Bobby Horton, Brad Ryan and Andy&nbsp;Megginnis&nbsp;have been having a good time right along with their audiences all over the country for 50 years. At 3 p.m. Central on Sunday, Nov. 13, the Cultural Arts Center in Colby will be the site for these gents to perform their unique&nbsp;four-part harmony.&nbsp;Their &nbsp;pleasing&nbsp;blend of voices and instruments, from a heartrending country song to an unexpected a cappella rendition,&nbsp;is&nbsp;suitable for the entire family. Three on a String’s show has evolved into a well-timed, musically interesting and funny presentation. &nbsp;Three on a String has enjoyed working with performers such as the Statler Brothers, Ray Stevens, The Oak Ridge Boys, Hank Williams Jr., and Red Skelton. They have shared the stage with former Presidents Ronald Reagan and George Bush. They have performed for, and with, symphony orchestras, arts councils,&nbsp;conventions and&nbsp;concerts. &nbsp;Among their many awards, they were honored to receive the Governor's Achievement Award and inducted into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame.The performance is funded in part by grants from both the Thomas County Community Foundation through Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation and the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. Admission is with&nbsp;WPAA&nbsp;season ticket, or at the door; Adults, $20; Students, $10.

Three on a String set to perform in northwest Kansas

Thirsty's Veterans Day Appreciation meal set for Nov. 11

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667415507604.jpeg" alt="110322.jpg" />
 <figcaption>110322.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast click here.</a>

Changing&nbsp;diapers, making&nbsp;lunch, or getting&nbsp;backpacks ready for the next day can seem like mundane chores for parents. &nbsp;However, these can be opportunities&nbsp;in our daily routines&nbsp;that&nbsp;gives parents not only&nbsp;time to spend&nbsp;with their children but also use&nbsp;as a chance&nbsp;to bond and have fun. &nbsp;

Families are busy, I get that! &nbsp;Slowing down and taking the opportunity to do a chore with a child not only can help the child bond with the parent or caregiver but the child also learns valuable skills during the process. &nbsp;For example, changing a diaper can&nbsp;be a&nbsp;boring&nbsp;and messy task. &nbsp;However, a parent can take this opportunity to have fun with the child. &nbsp;Singing a song or a&nbsp;saying a&nbsp;fun rhyme can help distract the child from the task but also gives the&nbsp;child&nbsp;an opportunity to engage with their parent or caregiver and learn social emotional skills.

Being responsive to children is a&nbsp;key element of bonding with a child. &nbsp;Being responsive means we look at, touch, or talk to our children when they try to get our attention. &nbsp;Children learn to trust us when respond to them and&nbsp;we&nbsp;meet their needs. &nbsp;&nbsp;Dr. Bradford Wiles, K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;Specialist and&nbsp;Associate Professor states,&nbsp;“That bond is really around forming trust between each other (and) having an emotional connection. That feeling of security that is a foundation. Children know that their primary caregiver is a secure base from which they can explore their world. They can always turn back to that secure base.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

When a baby is born they want to be near their mother or parent most of the time. &nbsp;This is their safe place and the natural habitat of a newborn. &nbsp;However, as the baby becomes more mobile(crawling)&nbsp;and explores&nbsp;their environment they will move farther away from their mother or primary caregiver. &nbsp;They usually come back and check in on a fairly regular basis&nbsp;with mom or&nbsp;primary c<a></a>aregiver. &nbsp;This shows secure attachment of the child&nbsp;to the primary caregiver&nbsp;which is important for their entire life and the relationships they&nbsp;will have.

As children get older, they form&nbsp;more&nbsp;relationships with family, friends, and&nbsp;the&nbsp;community. &nbsp;The parent still plays an important role though as the child grows so that is why using routine opportunities throughout the day to check in is a great way to continue that relationship.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>Changing&nbsp;diapers, making&nbsp;lunch, or getting&nbsp;backpacks ready for the next day can seem like mundane chores for parents. &nbsp;However, these can be opportunities&nbsp;in our daily routines&nbsp;that&nbsp;gives parents not only&nbsp;time to spend&nbsp;with their children but also use&nbsp;as a chance&nbsp;to bond and have fun. &nbsp;Families are busy, I get that! &nbsp;Slowing down and taking the opportunity to do a chore with a child not only can help the child bond with the parent or caregiver but the child also learns valuable skills during the process. &nbsp;For example, changing a diaper can&nbsp;be a&nbsp;boring&nbsp;and messy task. &nbsp;However, a parent can take this opportunity to have fun with the child. &nbsp;Singing a song or a&nbsp;saying a&nbsp;fun rhyme can help distract the child from the task but also gives the&nbsp;child&nbsp;an opportunity to engage with their parent or caregiver and learn social emotional skills.Being responsive to children is a&nbsp;key element of bonding with a child. &nbsp;Being responsive means we look at, touch, or talk to our children when they try to get our attention. &nbsp;Children learn to trust us when respond to them and&nbsp;we&nbsp;meet their needs. &nbsp;&nbsp;Dr. Bradford Wiles, K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;Specialist and&nbsp;Associate Professor states,&nbsp;“That bond is really around forming trust between each other (and) having an emotional connection. That feeling of security that is a foundation. Children know that their primary caregiver is a secure base from which they can explore their world. They can always turn back to that secure base.”&nbsp;&nbsp;When a baby is born they want to be near their mother or parent most of the time. &nbsp;This is their safe place and the natural habitat of a newborn. &nbsp;However, as the baby becomes more mobile(crawling)&nbsp;and explores&nbsp;their environment they will move farther away from their mother or primary caregiver. &nbsp;They usually come back and check in on a fairly regular basis&nbsp;with mom or&nbsp;primary c<a></a>aregiver. &nbsp;This shows secure attachment of the child&nbsp;to the primary caregiver&nbsp;which is important for their entire life and the relationships they&nbsp;will have.As children get older, they form&nbsp;more&nbsp;relationships with family, friends, and&nbsp;the&nbsp;community. &nbsp;The parent still plays an important role though as the child grows so that is why using routine opportunities throughout the day to check in is a great way to continue that relationship.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

KOERNER: Responsive parenting​

The National Weather Service in Dodge City is warning of potentially severe thunderstorms in western Kansas beginning after 10 p.m. Thursday.

Fueled by a cold front, the storms are expected to develop east of a Hays-Dodge City line. Some storms are expected to be strong and could bring quarter-size hail and wind gusts of up to 60 mph.

There is a 50 percent chance for Hays and Ellis County to see showers or thunderstorms, and a 30 percent chance that precipitation continues into Friday night.

The low is expected to drop to 35 degrees Thursday night, with the high temperature Friday only reaching 40 degrees, with NWS said. On Friday night, the mercury is expected to drop below freezing before a slight warm-up Saturday.

Weekend highs are expected to be in the mid-60s, with lows staying just above the freezing point.

There is another chance for precipitation beginning Wednesday night, the NWS predicted.

Check Hays Post or tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667507648590.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Dodge City is warning of potentially severe thunderstorms in western Kansas beginning after 10 p.m. Thursday.Fueled by a cold front, the storms are expected to develop east of a Hays-Dodge City line. Some storms are expected to be strong and could bring quarter-size hail and wind gusts of up to 60 mph.There is a 50 percent chance for Hays and Ellis County to see showers or thunderstorms, and a 30 percent chance that precipitation continues into Friday night.The low is expected to drop to 35 degrees Thursday night, with the high temperature Friday only reaching 40 degrees, with NWS said. On Friday night, the mercury is expected to drop below freezing before a slight warm-up Saturday.Weekend highs are expected to be in the mid-60s, with lows staying just above the freezing point.There is another chance for precipitation beginning Wednesday night, the NWS predicted.Check Hays Post or tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for the latest on severe weather.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thunderstorms are possible across central and portions of southwest Kansas tonight. Lows in the 30s and 40s. <a href="https://t.co/IkViSjXRDJ">pic.twitter.com/IkViSjXRDJ</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1588255513061441541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Hays on western edge of Thursday night thunderstorm line

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 21 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Oct. 22 to 28. KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Ellis County remained in the substantial-incidence category, KDHE reported. (See map below).&nbsp; Several northwest Kansas counties were moved into the high-incidence category.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667416654463.png" alt="Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County COVID-19 curve / KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 21 new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from Oct. 22 to 28. KDHE reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Ellis County remained in the substantial-incidence category, KDHE reported. (See map below).&nbsp; Several northwest Kansas counties were moved into the high-incidence category.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 7,924 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667416682698.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

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