After a sunny day with temperatures expected to reach up to 105 Tuesday, a chance of showers or thunderstorms returns Tuesday evening.&nbsp;

The National Weather Service in Dodge City predicts a 30 percent chance of precipitation between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. While temperatures are expected to remain in the mid- to upper-90s Wednesday and Thursday, there remains a 30 percent to 50 percent chance for showers or storms in the afternoon and evening both days.&nbsp;

A heat advisory will remain in effect in the Hays area until 8 p.m. Tuesday.&nbsp;

After a sunny day with temperatures expected to reach up to 105 Tuesday, a chance of showers or thunderstorms returns Tuesday evening.&nbsp;The National Weather Service in Dodge City predicts a 30 percent chance of precipitation between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. While temperatures are expected to remain in the mid- to upper-90s Wednesday and Thursday, there remains a 30 percent to 50 percent chance for showers or storms in the afternoon and evening both days.&nbsp;A heat advisory will remain in effect in the Hays area until 8 p.m. Tuesday.&nbsp;

NWS: Chance for showers, storms through Thursday

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Hays Public Library director Brandon Hines.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Hays Library director Brandon Hines" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=mnfsp-12674da-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=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Hays Public Library director Brandon Hines.

🎤Forward Ever: Hays Library director Brandon Hines

Photos by Cristina Janney/Hays Post

Photos by Cristina Janney/Hays Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657037505620.jpeg" alt="Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657037535331.jpeg" alt="Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657037559721.jpeg" alt="Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657037583232.jpeg" alt="Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657037608378.jpeg" alt="Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657037626703.jpeg" alt="Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657037645390.jpeg" alt="Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657037671570.jpeg" alt="Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Lainey Wilson at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657037689896.jpeg" alt="Kameron Marlowe Saturday at the Wild West Festival in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Kameron Marlowe Saturday at the Wild West Festival in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657037706637.jpeg" alt="Joshua Ray Walker Saturday at the Wild West Festival in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Joshua Ray Walker Saturday at the Wild West Festival in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657037737450.jpeg" alt="Joshua Ray Walker's guitarist at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Joshua Ray Walker's guitarist at the Wild West Festival Saturday in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Wild West Fest in photos — Saturday

The Kansas Department of Transportation will begin work on a pair of road construction projects in Gove and Logan counties starting Tuesday.

In Gove County, crews will be completing a mill and overlay on 15 miles of K-23 starting at the south city limits in Gove and ending at the Sheridan County line. The project area will also include the K-23 alternate through Grainfield and K-23 spur.

Crews will also mill and overlay 26 miles of U.S. 40 in Logan County. Work will begin at the Wallace County line and extend east to the east K-25 junction.

Traffic will be directed through both work zones by flaggers and a pilot car operation. Delays up to 15 minutes should be anticipated.

KDOT expects the projects to be completed by the end of August, weather permitting.

The primary contractor for the Gove County project is APAC Kansas Inc. Shears Division, of Hutchison, with a total contract cost of approximately $3.5 million. Venture Corp. of Great Bend is the primary contractor for the nearly $3.8 million Logan County project.

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation will begin work on a pair of road construction projects in Gove and Logan counties starting Tuesday.In Gove County, crews will be completing a mill and overlay on 15 miles of K-23 starting at the south city limits in Gove and ending at the Sheridan County line. The project area will also include the K-23 alternate through Grainfield and K-23 spur.Crews will also mill and overlay 26 miles of U.S. 40 in Logan County. Work will begin at the Wallace County line and extend east to the east K-25 junction.Traffic will be directed through both work zones by flaggers and a pilot car operation. Delays up to 15 minutes should be anticipated.KDOT expects the projects to be completed by the end of August, weather permitting.The primary contractor for the Gove County project is APAC Kansas Inc. Shears Division, of Hutchison, with a total contract cost of approximately $3.5 million. Venture Corp. of Great Bend is the primary contractor for the nearly $3.8 million Logan County project.

Road construction projects begin in Gove, Logan counties

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post As the Ellis County Commission continues to work through the
2023 budget process, it will consider the largest funding request from
outside agencies in the last five years.

Last month, the commission heard updates from 20 of the 21
outside agencies requesting funds as part of the 2023 budget process.

In previous budget conversations, the commission had
requested that each agency request the same funding for 2023 that they are set
to receive in 2022.

According to commission documents, the agencies requested
$1.387 million for 2023, an increase of $280,000 from the year before.

The 2023 request from the Ellis County Historical Society was among the largest increases from 2022.

After receiving $72,000 in both 2021 and 2022, the society has requested $150,000 for 2023.

The county commission was critical of the group’s perceived lack
of a plan last year. But since then, members of the group have come before the
commission several times to update them on the society’s progress.

“The board has decided and taken a vote, that we are going
to save the brick church building and we are going to be a vibrant part of
downtown again,” Historical Society Executive Director Amanda Rupp told the commission.

Commission Chair Butch Schlyer was the most vocal critic of
the historical society last year but was complementary of the group’s efforts
this year.

“You have done a bang-up job throughout the year, and I
think you guys are really on your way to doing something,” Schlyer said. “It is
really good, valuable that there is a historical perspective in the community.”

Rupp told the commission they are continuing to apply for
grant opportunities to help fund their efforts but they need the staff to
manage the grants.

“I’m very pleased to say that the small staff that we had has
done a massive amount of work in the past year,” Rupp said. “We have the people
here that want to do the work and (are) dedicated.” 

Rupp said most of the grants have to be used for a specific
purpose and the majority of the county funding will be used for operational
costs.

“We have secured almost $70,000 worth of grants and
donations this year,” Rupp said.

Grow Hays also requested an increase from 2022. Since the
commission voted not to fund the Ellis County Coalition for Economic
Development, now Grow Hays in 2019, the group received $27,500 in 2020 and 2021
and will get $150,000 in 2022.

Executive Director Doug Williams told the county commission
the increased funding, from both the county and City of Hays, allowed Grow Hays
to add David Clingan, Director of Recruitment and Retention.

“Since that time, we’re able to obtain a $2.63 million base
grant from the state of Kansas for the construction of a microfactory that will
go up at the corner of Ninth and Commerce Parkway,” Williams said.

He added that, “In the time that David’s been here, we’ve
never had more retail prospects and other prospect for things going on then we
do right now.”

Grow Hays has requested an increase of $30,000 in funding
for 2023.

Last year, Williams, on behalf of Grow Hays, had requested
that the county earmark funding equivalent to a half-mill for economic development.
The commission was against the idea.

Williams said this year’s request is still less than what half-mill
would equal, “but we still feel that is a significant investment and will allow
us to do what we need to do.”

Schlyer asked what Grow Hays will do
with the increased funding.

Williams said they will use the funding for extra staffing.

The Kid-Link Program through Developmental Services of
Northwest Kansas was a new funding request for 2023 but the county has
previously help to fund the program.

The Hays Area Children’s Center had previously provided the
Tiny K Part C services. 

Sarah Biggs, Director of Programs for DSNWK said the state
asked DSNWK’s Kid-Link to take on the early intervention services and that more
than doubled the program.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County was also a new
agency requesting funding in 2023. They requested $5,000.

The commission have scheduled a meeting for later this month
to discuss budget requests from department heads.

The 2023 budget is scheduled to be published in August with
final approval set for September.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656726796965.jpeg" alt="Outside agencies requested an increase of nearly $300,000 in funding for 2023 from Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Outside agencies requested an increase of nearly $300,000 in funding for 2023 from Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post As the Ellis County Commission continues to work through the
2023 budget process, it will consider the largest funding request from
outside agencies in the last five years.Last month, the commission heard updates from 20 of the 21
outside agencies requesting funds as part of the 2023 budget process.In previous budget conversations, the commission had
requested that each agency request the same funding for 2023 that they are set
to receive in 2022.According to commission documents, the agencies requested
$1.387 million for 2023, an increase of $280,000 from the year before.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656728556431.jpeg" alt="ECHS Director Amanda Rupp, County Liaison Sheriff Detective Brad Ricke and Curator Adam Conkey discuss their funding request with the commission" />
 <figcaption>ECHS Director Amanda Rupp, County Liaison Sheriff Detective Brad Ricke and Curator Adam Conkey discuss their funding request with the commission</figcaption>
 </figure>The 2023 request from the Ellis County Historical Society was among the largest increases from 2022.After receiving $72,000 in both 2021 and 2022, the society has requested $150,000 for 2023.The county commission was critical of the group’s perceived lack
of a plan last year. But since then, members of the group have come before the
commission several times to update them on the society’s progress.“The board has decided and taken a vote, that we are going
to save the brick church building and we are going to be a vibrant part of
downtown again,” Historical Society Executive Director Amanda Rupp told the commission.Commission Chair Butch Schlyer was the most vocal critic of
the historical society last year but was complementary of the group’s efforts
this year.“You have done a bang-up job throughout the year, and I
think you guys are really on your way to doing something,” Schlyer said. “It is
really good, valuable that there is a historical perspective in the community.”Rupp told the commission they are continuing to apply for
grant opportunities to help fund their efforts but they need the staff to
manage the grants.“I’m very pleased to say that the small staff that we had has
done a massive amount of work in the past year,” Rupp said. “We have the people
here that want to do the work and (are) dedicated.” Rupp said most of the grants have to be used for a specific
purpose and the majority of the county funding will be used for operational
costs.“We have secured almost $70,000 worth of grants and
donations this year,” Rupp said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656729635573.jpeg" alt="Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams talked with the commission during his budget update" />
 <figcaption>Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams talked with the commission during his budget update</figcaption>
 </figure>Grow Hays also requested an increase from 2022. Since the
commission voted not to fund the Ellis County Coalition for Economic
Development, now Grow Hays in 2019, the group received $27,500 in 2020 and 2021
and will get $150,000 in 2022.Executive Director Doug Williams told the county commission
the increased funding, from both the county and City of Hays, allowed Grow Hays
to add David Clingan, Director of Recruitment and Retention.“Since that time, we’re able to obtain a $2.63 million base
grant from the state of Kansas for the construction of a microfactory that will
go up at the corner of Ninth and Commerce Parkway,” Williams said.He added that, “In the time that David’s been here, we’ve
never had more retail prospects and other prospect for things going on then we
do right now.”Grow Hays has requested an increase of $30,000 in funding
for 2023.Last year, Williams, on behalf of Grow Hays, had requested
that the county earmark funding equivalent to a half-mill for economic development.
The commission was against the idea.Williams said this year’s request is still less than what half-mill
would equal, “but we still feel that is a significant investment and will allow
us to do what we need to do.”Schlyer asked what Grow Hays will do
with the increased funding.Williams said they will use the funding for extra staffing.The Kid-Link Program through Developmental Services of
Northwest Kansas was a new funding request for 2023 but the county has
previously help to fund the program.The Hays Area Children’s Center had previously provided the
Tiny K Part C services. Sarah Biggs, Director of Programs for DSNWK said the state
asked DSNWK’s Kid-Link to take on the early intervention services and that more
than doubled the program.They requested $120,000 for 2023.Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County was also a new
agency requesting funding in 2023. They requested $5,000.The commission have scheduled a meeting for later this month
to discuss budget requests from department heads.The 2023 budget is scheduled to be published in August with
final approval set for September.

Ellis County Commission set to consider funding increase for outside agencies

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A master's student at Fort Hays State University is highlighting the mistreatment of wild creatures and the environment in his MFA art exhibit "Inhumane."

Jordan Brown's exhibit is on display now through Wednesday at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the Fort Hays State University campus. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays through Fridays during the summer months.

"My inspiration for my thesis is to bring about awareness to the inhumane acts that humans are putting on animals," he said, "whether that be through trafficking, poaching or pollution or the absent thought of the animal and the environment."

Brown, 29, a Concordia native, works in ceramics, but also has several cast pieces.

The artwork that sparked it all is titled "Battery Bear."

In Asia, Asiatic black bears are captured from the wild or raised in captivity so their bile from their gallbladders can be harvested for traditional medicine. The bears are kept in small cages and repeatedly stabbed to extract the bile until their early deaths, Brown said.

The captive bears' teeth and claws are also removed. The bears live about 30 years in the wild, but only about five years in captivity.

"It's been going on for thousands of years, and I was shocked that I never heard of it," he said. ... "For me to be an animal lover and see this inhumane act on animals is shocking."

Several of his pieces highlight rhinoceros poaching.&nbsp; A large ceramic rhino head titled "Why Me?" is exhibited with its horns cut off. Sanctuaries in Africa often remove a significant portion of rhinos' horns to help protect them from poachers. 

"It's a horrible thing, because it leaves the rhino unprotected from other animals and situations," Brown said. "It leaves them pretty much defenseless."

Some rhino sanctuaries assign 24-hour armed guards to rhinos, who are killed for their horns, which are used in traditional medicines.

The trade in elephant tusks and rhino horns is about a $10 billion industry, Brown said.

"Broken Treaty" is a piece that hits closer to home. Brown said Kansas, especially Ellis County, has many open pits associated with oil production. Waterfowl land on what they think is water and are covered in oil or other chemicals.

President Trump eased punishments for companies under the Migratory Bird Treaty of 1918. 

"There were a lot of animals that died because there was no one there to speak for them," Brown said.

Brown's art also explores pollution in the world's oceans. 

"I think it's still inhumane to throw your trash and not think about where your trash is going. It is the lack of thought for the animal and the environment that is angering me," he said.

"I think we should be conscientious of what we are doing. We know we are doing a little bit of bad. We should try to do a little bit of good. If you recycle just a little, that is your part. If someone sees that, you may spark them to recycle. It is a chain effect."

He said was inspired by ancient Greek, Chinese and European pottery styles in creating large vessels for his thesis exhibit.

"Their exceptional skill and knowledge of the potter's wheel has significantly inspired my work," he said in his thesis statement.

Brown and his wife have bought a house in Ellis, and he hopes to open a studio in the area.

If you are interested in purchasing or learning more about Brown's work, he can be reached at jordanbrownceramics@outlook.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656618903376.jpeg" alt=""Battery Bear" by Jordan Brown highlights the plight of Asiatic black bears, which are kept in captivity to harvest their bile. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>"Battery Bear" by Jordan Brown highlights the plight of Asiatic black bears, which are kept in captivity to harvest their bile. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA master's student at Fort Hays State University is highlighting the mistreatment of wild creatures and the environment in his MFA art exhibit "Inhumane."Jordan Brown's exhibit is on display now through Wednesday at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the Fort Hays State University campus. The gallery is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays through Fridays during the summer months."My inspiration for my thesis is to bring about awareness to the inhumane acts that humans are putting on animals," he said, "whether that be through trafficking, poaching or pollution or the absent thought of the animal and the environment."Brown, 29, a Concordia native, works in ceramics, but also has several cast pieces.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656619084401.jpeg" alt="Jordan Brown MFA exhibit "Inhumane" highlights humans' mistreatment of animals and the environment. The exhibit is on display at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the FHSU campus through Wednesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Jordan Brown MFA exhibit "Inhumane" highlights humans' mistreatment of animals and the environment. The exhibit is on display at the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art on the FHSU campus through Wednesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>The artwork that sparked it all is titled "Battery Bear."In Asia, Asiatic black bears are captured from the wild or raised in captivity so their bile from their gallbladders can be harvested for traditional medicine. The bears are kept in small cages and repeatedly stabbed to extract the bile until their early deaths, Brown said.The captive bears' teeth and claws are also removed. The bears live about 30 years in the wild, but only about five years in captivity. "It's been going on for thousands of years, and I was shocked that I never heard of it," he said. ... "For me to be an animal lover and see this inhumane act on animals is shocking."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656619522570.jpeg" alt=""Why Me? "&nbsp; stoneware clay by Jordan Brown " />
 <figcaption>"Why Me? "&nbsp; stoneware clay by Jordan Brown </figcaption>
 </figure>Several of his pieces highlight rhinoceros poaching.&nbsp; A large ceramic rhino head titled "Why Me?" is exhibited with its horns cut off. Sanctuaries in Africa often remove a significant portion of rhinos' horns to help protect them from poachers. "It's a horrible thing, because it leaves the rhino unprotected from other animals and situations," Brown said. "It leaves them pretty much defenseless." Some rhino sanctuaries assign 24-hour armed guards to rhinos, who are killed for their horns, which are used in traditional medicines.The trade in elephant tusks and rhino horns is about a $10 billion industry, Brown said."Broken Treaty" is a piece that hits closer to home. Brown said Kansas, especially Ellis County, has many open pits associated with oil production. Waterfowl land on what they think is water and are covered in oil or other chemicals.President Trump eased punishments for companies under the Migratory Bird Treaty of 1918. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656619412656.jpeg" alt=""Broken Treaty" by Jordan Brown. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>"Broken Treaty" by Jordan Brown. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>"There were a lot of animals that died because there was no one there to speak for them," Brown said.Brown's art also explores pollution in the world's oceans. "I think it's still inhumane to throw your trash and not think about where your trash is going. It is the lack of thought for the animal and the environment that is angering me," he said."I think we should be conscientious of what we are doing. We know we are doing a little bit of bad. We should try to do a little bit of good. If you recycle just a little, that is your part. If someone sees that, you may spark them to recycle. It is a chain effect."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656619229550.jpeg" alt=""Smuggled" iron sculpture by Jordan Brown. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>"Smuggled" iron sculpture by Jordan Brown. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>He said was inspired by ancient Greek, Chinese and European pottery styles in creating large vessels for his thesis exhibit."Their exceptional skill and knowledge of the potter's wheel has significantly inspired my work," he said in his thesis statement. Brown and his wife have bought a house in Ellis, and he hopes to open a studio in the area. If you are interested in purchasing or learning more about Brown's work, he can be reached at jordanbrownceramics@outlook.com.

Moss-Thorns exhibit at FHSU focuses on animal mistreatment

Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Fri Jun 17 2022 10:04:55 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Kaleb Meredith"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M15S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/tKPU3EhU-720.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/tKPU3EhU-25NauLGk.m4a"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/tKPU3EhU-oVs1oZUT.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Kaleb Meredith" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

⚾ MEET THE LARKS: Kaleb Meredith

<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/2022/7/1656969804224.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

On July 03, 2022, approximately 5:50 p.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a fire in a detached garage located at 110 W 15th Steet in Hays.

On duty firefighters spotted smoke and flames and notified the dispatch center. Arriving fire crews found fire spreading from the garage to a neighboring structure. Fire crews deployed 2 attack lines to protect both homes and extinguish to the flames. The fire was quickly brought under control.

The electrical power line for the residence was damaged by the fire and Midwest Energy responded to secure the downed power line. The home was occupied at the time. No injuries from the occupants or first responders were reported. The cause of the fire is still under investigation at this time.

The Hays Fire Department would like to thank Ellis County Communications, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, Hays Police Department, and Midwest Energy for their assistance.

The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone to check smoke and CO alarms to make sure they are functioning corre

Hays Fire DepartmentOn July 03, 2022, approximately 5:50 p.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a fire in a detached garage located at 110 W 15th Steet in Hays.On duty firefighters spotted smoke and flames and notified the dispatch center. Arriving fire crews found fire spreading from the garage to a neighboring structure. Fire crews deployed 2 attack lines to protect both homes and extinguish to the flames. The fire was quickly brought under control.The electrical power line for the residence was damaged by the fire and Midwest Energy responded to secure the downed power line. The home was occupied at the time. No injuries from the occupants or first responders were reported. The cause of the fire is still under investigation at this time.The Hays Fire Department would like to thank Ellis County Communications, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, Hays Police Department, and Midwest Energy for their assistance.The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone to check smoke and CO alarms to make sure they are functioning corre

Garage fire stopped from spreading to home by Hays Fire Department

<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Fri Jun 17 2022 10:04:55 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Hunter Rosson"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M15S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/N1BWa8Qo-720.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/N1BWa8Qo-25NauLGk.m4a"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/N1BWa8Qo-oVs1oZUT.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Hunter Rosson" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Photo courtesy of Ken's Photography of Hays

⚾ MEET THE LARKS: Hunter Rosson

It may only be mid-summer, but the Hays Chamber is already preparing for its annual celebration of area educators.

The Education Appreciation dinner is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 30 at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall,&nbsp;2350 E. Eighth.

But for those looking to get involved in the event, now is the time, said Hays Chamber President and CEO Sarah Wasinger.

"Timing is of the essence for this event, just because we do have to put a few
things together to be ready for that day," she said. "So if your business is interested in
being a sponsor for the upcoming event, we would love to sit down and visit
with you either at the Chamber office or come to your location and talk
to you about what that all looks like. "

She said they hope to have details finalized by the end of July.

"We want to have all
that prep material and content ready for the night of the event, as well as
give you some time to pick you out if you want to include any items in the swag
bag," Wasinger said. "As we know, things delivering on time doesn't always happen nowadays, some
delays from supply chain issues. So we want to make sure there's plenty of time
for you to be happy with how that all turns out."

The Chamber works with sponsors to ensure their contribution is visible during the event.

"We find different ways to feature businesses and our sponsors," Wasinger said. "So depending
on which level of membership you have, we invite some of those
sponsors to attend the event, we do feature our higher level our premier
sponsors, that's an investment of $700, and that would include a 30-second commercial
that would be shared within the event."

She said the sponsorship is a way to introduce a business or service to the education community.

"We have three different levels of sponsorship for people to take advantage of if they want to be a part of the event," Wasinger said, adding new sponsors are always welcome.

Booth spaces are available as well as "a good way to mingle with the folks who are
attending," she said.

"And then we also have different ways on social media that will be
advertising the event as well, as well as on our digital newsletter for the
chamber, and kind of some of our invitations that will go out, we'll be
featuring our sponsors, so lots of great visibility, but really just a chance to
say thank you to the great work that they do," Wasinger said.

While the Chamber and the event sponsors come together for those educators that want to attend, the only thing to do for now is to save the date.

"We will be working with the administrators from each of the different school sections to kind of collect RSVPs with us," Wasinger said. "More details will be coming. If for any reason they don't see that information ahead, they can definitely feel free to contact the Chamber and let us know that they would plan to attend that night."

She said the RSVPs are needed to complete an accurate meal count, and as they come in, the Chamber will keep a master list of attendees from across the county.

"This event is for all Ellis County educators, and not just Hays," Wasinger said. "We have Hays, Catholic schools, Hays public schools, obviously, Victoria and Ellis have their public school systems too. And then, of course, we have St. Mary's over in Ellis. We also include Fort Hays State University and NCK Tech, as well as Hays Academy of Hair Design. ... We want all the educators who have added touch points on our children's or students lives to come celebrate that evening with us."&nbsp;

Along with the dinner, the first 150 attendees will also receive assorted items from the sponsors.

"Then we
just give them time to sit together and socialize, and maybe get to see friends
that they haven't seen over the summer, or introduce themselves as well to the
new educators," Wasinger said. "This is kind of a formal event, you don't have to dress up
fancy, but we want to give people all the different superintendents or
principals a chance to introduce their new staff that are in attendance."

But most importantly, she said they hope they can share their full appreciation of their work with the educators.

"There's no greater
gift than being able to open up someone's mind to help them realize their
capabilities," Wasinger said. "That's not an easy job, and there's a
lot that goes into that. So that's the purpose behind education appreciation is
to just have a night where we can say thank you for everything that you do. And
it's really just a great way for our business community to rally around our area's educators."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656007244767.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostIt may only be mid-summer, but the Hays Chamber is already preparing for its annual celebration of area educators.The Education Appreciation dinner is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 30 at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall,&nbsp;2350 E. Eighth.But for those looking to get involved in the event, now is the time, said Hays Chamber President and CEO Sarah Wasinger."Timing is of the essence for this event, just because we do have to put a few
things together to be ready for that day," she said. "So if your business is interested in
being a sponsor for the upcoming event, we would love to sit down and visit
with you either at the Chamber office or come to your location and talk
to you about what that all looks like. "She said they hope to have details finalized by the end of July.<div><iframe title="Planning underway for 2022 Educators Appreciation dinner" 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=wj8c5-1259d84-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>"We want to have all
that prep material and content ready for the night of the event, as well as
give you some time to pick you out if you want to include any items in the swag
bag," Wasinger said. "As we know, things delivering on time doesn't always happen nowadays, some
delays from supply chain issues. So we want to make sure there's plenty of time
for you to be happy with how that all turns out."The Chamber works with sponsors to ensure their contribution is visible during the event."We find different ways to feature businesses and our sponsors," Wasinger said. "So depending
on which level of membership you have, we invite some of those
sponsors to attend the event, we do feature our higher level our premier
sponsors, that's an investment of $700, and that would include a 30-second commercial
that would be shared within the event."She said the sponsorship is a way to introduce a business or service to the education community."We have three different levels of sponsorship for people to take advantage of if they want to be a part of the event," Wasinger said, adding new sponsors are always welcome.Booth spaces are available as well as "a good way to mingle with the folks who are
attending," she said."And then we also have different ways on social media that will be
advertising the event as well, as well as on our digital newsletter for the
chamber, and kind of some of our invitations that will go out, we'll be
featuring our sponsors, so lots of great visibility, but really just a chance to
say thank you to the great work that they do," Wasinger said.While the Chamber and the event sponsors come together for those educators that want to attend, the only thing to do for now is to save the date."We will be working with the administrators from each of the different school sections to kind of collect RSVPs with us," Wasinger said. "More details will be coming. If for any reason they don't see that information ahead, they can definitely feel free to contact the Chamber and let us know that they would plan to attend that night."She said the RSVPs are needed to complete an accurate meal count, and as they come in, the Chamber will keep a master list of attendees from across the county."This event is for all Ellis County educators, and not just Hays," Wasinger said. "We have Hays, Catholic schools, Hays public schools, obviously, Victoria and Ellis have their public school systems too. And then, of course, we have St. Mary's over in Ellis. We also include Fort Hays State University and NCK Tech, as well as Hays Academy of Hair Design. ... We want all the educators who have added touch points on our children's or students lives to come celebrate that evening with us."&nbsp;Along with the dinner, the first 150 attendees will also receive assorted items from the sponsors."Then we
just give them time to sit together and socialize, and maybe get to see friends
that they haven't seen over the summer, or introduce themselves as well to the
new educators," Wasinger said. "This is kind of a formal event, you don't have to dress up
fancy, but we want to give people all the different superintendents or
principals a chance to introduce their new staff that are in attendance."But most importantly, she said they hope they can share their full appreciation of their work with the educators."There's no greater
gift than being able to open up someone's mind to help them realize their
capabilities," Wasinger said. "That's not an easy job, and there's a
lot that goes into that. So that's the purpose behind education appreciation is
to just have a night where we can say thank you for everything that you do. And
it's really just a great way for our business community to rally around our area's educators."

🎙 Planning underway for 2022 Educators Appreciation dinner

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656792285131.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>

Photos by Cristina Janney and James Bell/Hays Post and Cayden Sanders/Tiger Media Network

Photos by Cristina Janney and James Bell/Hays Post and Cayden Sanders/Tiger Media Network <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656793537129.jpeg" alt="Hairball at the Wild West Festival on Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Hairball at the Wild West Festival on Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656713944644.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cayden Sanders / Tiger Media Network" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cayden Sanders / Tiger Media Network</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656798441630.jpeg" alt="Lonestar performs in the rain during the Wild West Festival Thursday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Lonestar performs in the rain during the Wild West Festival Thursday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656713971305.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cayden Sanders / Tiger Media Network" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cayden Sanders / Tiger Media Network</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656714007786.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cayden Sanders / Tiger Media Network" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cayden Sanders / Tiger Media Network</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656714054066.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cayden Sanders / Tiger Media Network" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cayden Sanders / Tiger Media Network</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656795446385.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656795419561.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656795386694.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656795346492.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656795322553.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656795292599.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656795238751.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656795128020.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656795128019.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656795128018.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656795128017.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794993732.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777255.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777254.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777252.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777253.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777251.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777250.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777249.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777247.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777245.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777246.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777244.jpeg" alt="Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Wild West Fest Parade. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656794777241.jpeg" alt="The Hays CVB celebrates 40 years with a kite festival. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Hays CVB celebrates 40 years with a kite festival. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656795128016.jpeg" alt="Kite Festival. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Kite Festival. Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797201488.jpeg" alt="Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797230295.jpeg" alt="Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797257166.jpeg" alt="Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797287859.jpeg" alt="Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797315872.jpeg" alt="Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797338820.jpeg" alt="Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797360355.jpeg" alt="Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797383070.jpeg" alt="Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797489636.jpeg" alt="Fans cheer to the sounds of DoC at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Fans cheer to the sounds of DoC at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797513739.jpeg" alt="Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hairball at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797536083.jpeg" alt="Robert and Susan LeDuc of Wilson kiss after dancing during the DoC performance Friday night at the Wild West Festival in Hays. The couple has been married 35 years. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Robert and Susan LeDuc of Wilson kiss after dancing during the DoC performance Friday night at the Wild West Festival in Hays. The couple has been married 35 years. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797560820.jpeg" alt="Fans clap during DoC at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Fans clap during DoC at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797588182.jpeg" alt="Sandi Maier, Wild West Festival director, rocks out Friday at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Sandi Maier, Wild West Festival director, rocks out Friday at the Wild West Festival Friday night. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656797635037.jpeg" alt="Kim and Mark Kronewitter of Hays dance during the DoC performance Friday night at the Wild West Festival. The couple has been married 14 years. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Kim and Mark Kronewitter of Hays dance during the DoC performance Friday night at the Wild West Festival. The couple has been married 14 years. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>

Wild West Fest 2022 in photos

High Plains Mental Health Center has been certified as one of the first Community Behavioral Health Clinics in the state of Kansas. This week, High Plains received a provisional, two-year certification from the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services. Implementing the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic system of care will “raise the bar” by providing a comprehensive range of mental health and substance use disorder services and focusing on care coordination, said Executive Director Walt Hill.

“Whole person care is a major focus of the CCBHC model. We are proud to continue offering innovative new services and expanded treatment options for the people of Northwest Kansas,” Hill said. “We are grateful to the State of Kansas for supporting CCBHC implementation, and we are very thankful for the efforts of our hard-working and dedicated staff to make this possible.”

With this news, High Plains is among the first six Community Mental Health Centers to achieve certified CCBHC status in Kansas. In April 2021, Gov. Laura Kelly signed a bill establishing the CCBHC model for providing behavioral health services in Kansas. Kansas is the first state in the nation to pass legislation adopting the CCBHC model statewide. Eventually, it is expected that all 26 Community Mental Health Centers in Kansas will transition to the CCBHC model of care. This state designation will enhance Medicaid reimbursement for services, which will be helpful for expanding and sustaining needed services, Hill said.&nbsp;

Due to increased behavioral healthcare needs, High Plains applied for and received a two-year federal grant in 2021 to begin implementing CCBHC required programs. The grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is providing up to $2 million in annual funding and will expire in September 2023. As a result of the grant, High Plains has implemented several new programs and onboarded an additional 14 staff members. New programs include Medication Assisted Treatment to improve recovery outcomes for those experiencing opioid addiction and a mobile Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) team currently serving Ellis County. The multi-disciplinary ACT team provides community-based services to better engage clients with serious mental illness and to help stabilize crisis situations in efforts to reduce hospitalization. Other programs include expanded integrated care locations and expanded outreach office sites, and increased focus on screening for certain physical health conditions and referring clients for needed primary medical care. High Plains has also expanded its prevention, education and outreach department. High Plains implemented early CCBHC services in January and has been working throughout the year to continue building the program.

While the CCBHC system of care is new to Kansas, it is not new. The U.S. currently has more than 430 CCBHCs nationwide operating in 42 states. CCBHCs are designed to improve suicide prevention, reduce drug overdose deaths, remove barriers to timely treatment access, improve access to care for veterans and active military, and reduce existing burdens on jails and hospital emergency departments.&nbsp;

Services will be available to all, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.&nbsp;

“Implementing and continuing to grow CCBHC services will ultimately result in better access to behavioral health services and better outcomes for those seeking needed health care,” said Mark Dinkel, High Plains CCBHC project director. “This is exciting news for Northwest Kansas and the expansion comes at a time when we continue to see increased needs for behavioral healthcare services.”

High Plains Mental Health Center currently has 25 service locations in the 20 counties served in northwest Kansas, in addition to school-based services. Telehealth services are also widely available from the privacy and comfort of home. To learn more, or to find the service location nearest you, call 1-800-432-0333 or visit hpmhc.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578344475899.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseHigh Plains Mental Health Center has been certified as one of the first Community Behavioral Health Clinics in the state of Kansas. This week, High Plains received a provisional, two-year certification from the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services. Implementing the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic system of care will “raise the bar” by providing a comprehensive range of mental health and substance use disorder services and focusing on care coordination, said Executive Director Walt Hill.“Whole person care is a major focus of the CCBHC model. We are proud to continue offering innovative new services and expanded treatment options for the people of Northwest Kansas,” Hill said. “We are grateful to the State of Kansas for supporting CCBHC implementation, and we are very thankful for the efforts of our hard-working and dedicated staff to make this possible.”With this news, High Plains is among the first six Community Mental Health Centers to achieve certified CCBHC status in Kansas. In April 2021, Gov. Laura Kelly signed a bill establishing the CCBHC model for providing behavioral health services in Kansas. Kansas is the first state in the nation to pass legislation adopting the CCBHC model statewide. Eventually, it is expected that all 26 Community Mental Health Centers in Kansas will transition to the CCBHC model of care. This state designation will enhance Medicaid reimbursement for services, which will be helpful for expanding and sustaining needed services, Hill said.&nbsp;Due to increased behavioral healthcare needs, High Plains applied for and received a two-year federal grant in 2021 to begin implementing CCBHC required programs. The grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is providing up to $2 million in annual funding and will expire in September 2023. As a result of the grant, High Plains has implemented several new programs and onboarded an additional 14 staff members. New programs include Medication Assisted Treatment to improve recovery outcomes for those experiencing opioid addiction and a mobile Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) team currently serving Ellis County. The multi-disciplinary ACT team provides community-based services to better engage clients with serious mental illness and to help stabilize crisis situations in efforts to reduce hospitalization. Other programs include expanded integrated care locations and expanded outreach office sites, and increased focus on screening for certain physical health conditions and referring clients for needed primary medical care. High Plains has also expanded its prevention, education and outreach department. High Plains implemented early CCBHC services in January and has been working throughout the year to continue building the program.While the CCBHC system of care is new to Kansas, it is not new. The U.S. currently has more than 430 CCBHCs nationwide operating in 42 states. CCBHCs are designed to improve suicide prevention, reduce drug overdose deaths, remove barriers to timely treatment access, improve access to care for veterans and active military, and reduce existing burdens on jails and hospital emergency departments.&nbsp;Services will be available to all, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.&nbsp;“Implementing and continuing to grow CCBHC services will ultimately result in better access to behavioral health services and better outcomes for those seeking needed health care,” said Mark Dinkel, High Plains CCBHC project director. “This is exciting news for Northwest Kansas and the expansion comes at a time when we continue to see increased needs for behavioral healthcare services.”High Plains Mental Health Center currently has 25 service locations in the 20 counties served in northwest Kansas, in addition to school-based services. Telehealth services are also widely available from the privacy and comfort of home. To learn more, or to find the service location nearest you, call 1-800-432-0333 or visit hpmhc.com.

High Plains receives Community Behavioral Health Clinic Certification 

The reconstruction of 22nd Street between Allen and 
Vine Street begins Tuesday. &nbsp;This project replaces the 
pavement and select areas of curb and gutter. &nbsp;As such, 22nd Street will
 be closed to through traffic for approximately six weeks.&nbsp;

For more information, call the contractor, T&amp;T Builders 
at 785 650-4507 or the Office of Project Management at 785 628-7350. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656688619276.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe reconstruction of 22nd Street between Allen and 
Vine Street begins Tuesday. &nbsp;This project replaces the 
pavement and select areas of curb and gutter. &nbsp;As such, 22nd Street will
 be closed to through traffic for approximately six weeks.&nbsp;For more information, call the contractor, T&amp;T Builders 
at 785 650-4507 or the Office of Project Management at 785 628-7350. &nbsp;

Section of 22nd Street will be closed for six weeks

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656792085177.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>

🎥 Green & Growing: Pollinator gardens

The Fort Hays Disabled American Veterans will host the second Veterans Vintage Bike Show July 9 and 10 at the Unrein Building at the Ellis County Fairgrounds.

The event is a fundraiser for disabled veterans. Fundraising along with a donation from the Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation help purchase the DAV a new van.

The van is used to transport veterans to Veterans Administration medical appointments. The DAV is considering purchasing another van for use by veterans in western Kansas, Pat Martin, volunteer, said.

All bikes entered in the show must be 1987 or earlier and can be foreign or domestic models. 

Martin said he hoped the event will draw vintage bike entries from across the Midwest.

Martin, a Vietnam veteran, owns a '72 Harley Iron Head; however, it's in pieces and still being restored.

He hopes he and his son can tackle the "basket case" this winter and have the bike ready for next year's show.

"I think it comes from your childhood," Martin said of his passion for old bikes. "A lot of people who are into older bikes can remember back to days when they were growing up on the farm and the old motorcycles that your dad or your granddad had."

Some vintage bike owners have inherited the bikes from family members.

"What we found the first time around that we did this was that it wasn't so much the motorcycles, but the stories behind them," Martin said. "People who have these motorcycles have a story to tell."

The bike entry fee is $35 — $25 if you pre-register. Registrations are being taken now. For more information or to register a bike, you can contact Martin at 785-269-7879 or at forthaysvintagebikeshow@gmail.com. The event's website is <a href="http://www.oldbikez.com.">www.oldbikez.com.</a>

Rare motorcycles from the Mike Bahnmaier collection will be on display. Bahnmaier has an extensive vintage motorcycle collection with bikes on display at both the St. Francis Motorcycle Museum and the Kansas Motorcycle Museum in Marquette.

General admission to the show will be $10; youth 14 and younger will be admitted free.

The event will also have a parts swap meet that will be sponsored by the Free Tomorrow Motorcycle Club. Organizers are also gathering donated items for a live auction that will include items such as gift cards from local businesses and a barbecue grill.

Weaver's BBQ will sell concessions. A beer garden, which will be outside, will be sponsored also be sponsored by the Free Tomorrow Motorcycle Club. Limited free camping will be offered at the fairgrounds by registration.

Four local riders from the Cross Country Chase will be in attendance with their bikes and chase vehicles.

The American Legion Riders will do a Sunday memorial run. The VFW will host a cornhole tournament on Saturday. Registration is at 10 a.m. Games start at 11 a.m. 

The American Veterans Kansas will host a short poker run starting at 11 a.m. Saturday that will be a fundraiser for the Soldiers' Home at Fort Dodge. 

Good Time Motorcycles has donated shirts to the event. Those shirts will be sold for $25 each with proceeds benefiting the DAV.

The Christain Motorcycle Association will provide free breakfast for those who have bikes entered in the show on Sunday morning.

The event is hosting a scavenger hunt for children. They are encouraged to look for the event's mascot bison, Alf. Wooden nickels will be distributed to children in the area prior to the event. If the child returns the nickel at the bike show, they can get a free ice cream at Vernie's.

Local organizers of the event are part of the Sunflower Chapter of the Antique Motorcycle Club of America.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655994234744.jpeg" alt="DAV Vintage Bike Show in 2019 File photo " />
 <figcaption>DAV Vintage Bike Show in 2019 File photo </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Fort Hays Disabled American Veterans will host the second Veterans Vintage Bike Show July 9 and 10 at the Unrein Building at the Ellis County Fairgrounds.The event is a fundraiser for disabled veterans. Fundraising along with a donation from the Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation help purchase the DAV a new van.The van is used to transport veterans to Veterans Administration medical appointments. The DAV is considering purchasing another van for use by veterans in western Kansas, Pat Martin, volunteer, said. All bikes entered in the show must be 1987 or earlier and can be foreign or domestic models. Martin said he hoped the event will draw vintage bike entries from across the Midwest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655994324679.png" alt="DAV Vintage Bike Show 2019. File photo " />
 <figcaption>DAV Vintage Bike Show 2019. File photo </figcaption>
 </figure>Martin, a Vietnam veteran, owns a '72 Harley Iron Head; however, it's in pieces and still being restored.He hopes he and his son can tackle the "basket case" this winter and have the bike ready for next year's show."I think it comes from your childhood," Martin said of his passion for old bikes. "A lot of people who are into older bikes can remember back to days when they were growing up on the farm and the old motorcycles that your dad or your granddad had."Some vintage bike owners have inherited the bikes from family members."What we found the first time around that we did this was that it wasn't so much the motorcycles, but the stories behind them," Martin said. "People who have these motorcycles have a story to tell." The bike entry fee is $35 — $25 if you pre-register. Registrations are being taken now. For more information or to register a bike, you can contact Martin at 785-269-7879 or at forthaysvintagebikeshow@gmail.com. The event's website is <a href="http://www.oldbikez.com.">www.oldbikez.com.</a> Rare motorcycles from the Mike Bahnmaier collection will be on display. Bahnmaier has an extensive vintage motorcycle collection with bikes on display at both the St. Francis Motorcycle Museum and the Kansas Motorcycle Museum in Marquette. General admission to the show will be $10; youth 14 and younger will be admitted free.The event will also have a parts swap meet that will be sponsored by the Free Tomorrow Motorcycle Club. Organizers are also gathering donated items for a live auction that will include items such as gift cards from local businesses and a barbecue grill. Weaver's BBQ will sell concessions. A beer garden, which will be outside, will be sponsored also be sponsored by the Free Tomorrow Motorcycle Club. Limited free camping will be offered at the fairgrounds by registration.Four local riders from the Cross Country Chase will be in attendance with their bikes and chase vehicles. The American Legion Riders will do a Sunday memorial run. The VFW will host a cornhole tournament on Saturday. Registration is at 10 a.m. Games start at 11 a.m. The American Veterans Kansas will host a short poker run starting at 11 a.m. Saturday that will be a fundraiser for the Soldiers' Home at Fort Dodge. Good Time Motorcycles has donated shirts to the event. Those shirts will be sold for $25 each with proceeds benefiting the DAV.The Christain Motorcycle Association will provide free breakfast for those who have bikes entered in the show on Sunday morning. The event is hosting a scavenger hunt for children. They are encouraged to look for the event's mascot bison, Alf. Wooden nickels will be distributed to children in the area prior to the event. If the child returns the nickel at the bike show, they can get a free ice cream at Vernie's.Local organizers of the event are part of the Sunflower Chapter of the Antique Motorcycle Club of America.

Vintage Bike Show to roll back into Hays July 9, 10

Free&nbsp;cancer&nbsp;screenings will be held&nbsp;from 9 to noon Saturday,&nbsp;July 30,&nbsp;at the&nbsp;First United Methodist Church&nbsp;at&nbsp;305 W. Seventh.&nbsp;The&nbsp;free cancer screenings&nbsp;are&nbsp;hosted by&nbsp;Hays&nbsp;Masonic Lodge No.&nbsp;195, Masonic&nbsp;Cancer Alliance, and The University of Kansas Cancer Center.&nbsp;This community outreach event is free and open to the public. No appointments are necessary to participate in the screening event.

Lodge members and staff from&nbsp;MCA&nbsp;are teaming up with&nbsp;health&nbsp;professionals&nbsp;from&nbsp;the&nbsp;University of Kansas Medical Center to provide&nbsp;health&nbsp;services that include:

•Skin and Prostate Cancer Screenings •Colon Cancer Take-Home Screening Kits •Tobacco Cessation Information and More

Area Masons work with&nbsp;staff from&nbsp;the&nbsp;MCA, the outreach network of&nbsp;KU Cancer Center,&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Kansas Masonic Foundation to coordinate&nbsp;many&nbsp;of the&nbsp;free&nbsp;screening events that often draw several hundred attendees of all ages.&nbsp;According to Brooke Groneman,&nbsp;MCA&nbsp;outreach director,&nbsp;over&nbsp;20,000&nbsp;Kansas residents have attended the screenings since 2003.

According&nbsp;to the&nbsp;American Academy of Dermatology,&nbsp;approximately&nbsp;9,500&nbsp;Americans&nbsp;are diagnosed&nbsp;withsome&nbsp;form&nbsp;of&nbsp;skin&nbsp;cancer&nbsp;every&nbsp;day,&nbsp;and&nbsp;nearly&nbsp;250&nbsp;of&nbsp;those&nbsp;are&nbsp;diagnosed&nbsp;with&nbsp;melanoma,&nbsp;the&nbsp;deadliest&nbsp;skin&nbsp;cancer.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Centers&nbsp;for Disease&nbsp;Control&nbsp;reports&nbsp;that cancer&nbsp;is currently the second&nbsp;leading cause ofdeath in Kansas,&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;region&nbsp;has&nbsp;higher than&nbsp;average&nbsp;rates of&nbsp;skin&nbsp;cancer&nbsp;compared to&nbsp;other&nbsp;parts of&nbsp;thecountry.

When it comes to the possibility of cancer, it&nbsp;is always better to catch a potential problem in the earliest stage possible. Anyone identified&nbsp;with&nbsp;a possible health concern at one of the free cancer screenings is&nbsp;advised&nbsp;by&nbsp;the&nbsp;screening&nbsp;team&nbsp;to&nbsp;follow up with his/her&nbsp;local&nbsp;physician.

For&nbsp;more information on the&nbsp;free cancer screening&nbsp;event&nbsp;in&nbsp;Hays,&nbsp;call&nbsp;Chris Neeley&nbsp;at&nbsp;785-259-2067.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656339699609.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseFree&nbsp;cancer&nbsp;screenings will be held&nbsp;from 9 to noon Saturday,&nbsp;July 30,&nbsp;at the&nbsp;First United Methodist Church&nbsp;at&nbsp;305 W. Seventh.&nbsp;The&nbsp;free cancer screenings&nbsp;are&nbsp;hosted by&nbsp;Hays&nbsp;Masonic Lodge No.&nbsp;195, Masonic&nbsp;Cancer Alliance, and The University of Kansas Cancer Center.&nbsp;This community outreach event is free and open to the public. No appointments are necessary to participate in the screening event.Lodge members and staff from&nbsp;MCA&nbsp;are teaming up with&nbsp;health&nbsp;professionals&nbsp;from&nbsp;the&nbsp;University of Kansas Medical Center to provide&nbsp;health&nbsp;services that include:•Skin and Prostate Cancer Screenings •Colon Cancer Take-Home Screening Kits •Tobacco Cessation Information and MoreArea Masons work with&nbsp;staff from&nbsp;the&nbsp;MCA, the outreach network of&nbsp;KU Cancer Center,&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Kansas Masonic Foundation to coordinate&nbsp;many&nbsp;of the&nbsp;free&nbsp;screening events that often draw several hundred attendees of all ages.&nbsp;According to Brooke Groneman,&nbsp;MCA&nbsp;outreach director,&nbsp;over&nbsp;20,000&nbsp;Kansas residents have attended the screenings since 2003.According&nbsp;to the&nbsp;American Academy of Dermatology,&nbsp;approximately&nbsp;9,500&nbsp;Americans&nbsp;are diagnosed&nbsp;withsome&nbsp;form&nbsp;of&nbsp;skin&nbsp;cancer&nbsp;every&nbsp;day,&nbsp;and&nbsp;nearly&nbsp;250&nbsp;of&nbsp;those&nbsp;are&nbsp;diagnosed&nbsp;with&nbsp;melanoma,&nbsp;the&nbsp;deadliest&nbsp;skin&nbsp;cancer.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Centers&nbsp;for Disease&nbsp;Control&nbsp;reports&nbsp;that cancer&nbsp;is currently the second&nbsp;leading cause ofdeath in Kansas,&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;region&nbsp;has&nbsp;higher than&nbsp;average&nbsp;rates of&nbsp;skin&nbsp;cancer&nbsp;compared to&nbsp;other&nbsp;parts of&nbsp;thecountry.When it comes to the possibility of cancer, it&nbsp;is always better to catch a potential problem in the earliest stage possible. Anyone identified&nbsp;with&nbsp;a possible health concern at one of the free cancer screenings is&nbsp;advised&nbsp;by&nbsp;the&nbsp;screening&nbsp;team&nbsp;to&nbsp;follow up with his/her&nbsp;local&nbsp;physician.For&nbsp;more information on the&nbsp;free cancer screening&nbsp;event&nbsp;in&nbsp;Hays,&nbsp;call&nbsp;Chris Neeley&nbsp;at&nbsp;785-259-2067.

Masonic Lodge to host free cancer screenings in Hays

LOGAN COUNTY—A Kansas teen was injured in an accident just after 7:30p.m. Friday in Logan County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Pontiac G6 driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Grace Lea Rene' Pfeifer, 16, Oakley, was westbound on U.S. 40 nine miles west of U.S. 83.

The car traveled off the roadway to the right and entered the north ditch and rolled twice.

&nbsp;EMS transported Pfeifer to the Logan County Hospital. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

LOGAN COUNTY—A Kansas teen was injured in an accident just after 7:30p.m. Friday in Logan County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Pontiac G6 driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Grace Lea Rene' Pfeifer, 16, Oakley, was westbound on U.S. 40 nine miles west of U.S. 83.The car traveled off the roadway to the right and entered the north ditch and rolled twice.&nbsp;EMS transported Pfeifer to the Logan County Hospital. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas teen hospitalized after rollover accident

News release Young men from across the State of Kansas participated in the 84th session of the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksbstate.org/" target="_blank">American Legion Boys State of Kansas</a>, held June 5-11 at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This was the 30th consecutive year the Kansas Boys State program was held at K-State. The ALBSK provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility. Boys State is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy. Among the highlights from the week, Austin Davis, a resident of Lansing, Kan., and a senior-to-be at Lansing High School, was elected Kansas Boys State governor. Lukas Haase, a resident of Overland Park, Kan., and a senior-to-be at Blue Valley Southwest High School, and Konnor Quinn-Colman, a resident of Leavenworth, Kan., and a senior-to-be at Leavenworth High School, will attend Boys Nation, Friday, July 22 through Saturday, July 30, at Marymount University in Arlington, Va. George Rothwell, Overland Park, Kan., was named Advisor of the Year. Rothwell, a 1994 KBS delegate and 1995 graduate of El Dorado (Kan.) High School, serves as an information technology advisor. Zach Brunner, Wamego, Kan., who served as the county counselor for Dole County, was named Counselor of the Year (counselors with four or more years’ experience). He was a 2015 KBS delegate and a 2016 graduate of Wamego High School. Zachary Barnes, Garnett, Kan., who served as the city counselor for the City of Werring, was named New Counselor of the Year (counselors with three or fewer years’ experience). He was a 2019 KBS delegate and a 2020 graduate of Anderson County High School in Garnett. Paul Curtis, Lansing, a junior-to-be at Lansing High School, received the William “Bill” F. Stahl Outstanding Justice Award, given to the outstanding member of the Boys State of Kansas Supreme Court as voted on by his Supreme Court peers. The award is presented in recognition of outstanding commitment to justice under the law and dedicated service to Boys State of Kansas. Stahl, of Junction City, Kan., passed away in September 2015 and was a longtime supporter of the ALBSK. Nick Hohman, Olathe, Kan., a senior-to-be at Blue Valley Southwest High School in Overland Park, Kan., was named the Outstanding Senator (representing Eisenhower County), and Eddie Johnson, Wichita, Kan., a senior-to-be at Andover (Kan.) High School, was named the Outstanding State Representative (representing Seitz County). Zachary Amsterdam, Leawood, Kan., a senior-to-be at Blue Valley North High School in Overland Park, was named the American Legion Department of Kansas winner of the Samsung American Legion Scholarship. As the state winner, Amsterdam receives a $1,250 scholarship and his application moves on to the national level where he could receive a $5,000 award as a national runner-up or $10,000 scholarship as a national scholar. During “American Legion Night” on June 8, the American Legion Boys State of Kansas recognized American Legion Department of Kansas past commander (2020-22) Marri Krupco, Blue Mound, Kan., by naming a Kansas Boys State city in her honor beginning with the 2023 KBS session. The 85th session of the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksbstate.org/" target="_blank">American Legion Boys State of Kansas</a>&nbsp;is scheduled to be held the week of Sunday, June 4, through Saturday, June 10, 2023, again at Kansas State University. For information on becoming a delegate, nominating a delegate or sponsoring a delegate, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ksbstate.org/" target="_blank">https://ksbstate.org</a>. The following is a list of this year’s ALBSK delegates from NW Kansas:

Smith Center &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp;Nathan Bryan, Smith Center High School

Hays &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp;Jensen Brull, Thomas More Prep-Marian High School &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp;Jordin Myers, Hays High School

Goodland &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp;Harrison Bhend, Goodland High School Wallace &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp;Gabe Johnson, Wallace County High School

News release Young men from across the State of Kansas participated in the 84th session of the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksbstate.org/" target="_blank">American Legion Boys State of Kansas</a>, held June 5-11 at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This was the 30th consecutive year the Kansas Boys State program was held at K-State. The ALBSK provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility. Boys State is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy. Among the highlights from the week, Austin Davis, a resident of Lansing, Kan., and a senior-to-be at Lansing High School, was elected Kansas Boys State governor. Lukas Haase, a resident of Overland Park, Kan., and a senior-to-be at Blue Valley Southwest High School, and Konnor Quinn-Colman, a resident of Leavenworth, Kan., and a senior-to-be at Leavenworth High School, will attend Boys Nation, Friday, July 22 through Saturday, July 30, at Marymount University in Arlington, Va. George Rothwell, Overland Park, Kan., was named Advisor of the Year. Rothwell, a 1994 KBS delegate and 1995 graduate of El Dorado (Kan.) High School, serves as an information technology advisor. Zach Brunner, Wamego, Kan., who served as the county counselor for Dole County, was named Counselor of the Year (counselors with four or more years’ experience). He was a 2015 KBS delegate and a 2016 graduate of Wamego High School. Zachary Barnes, Garnett, Kan., who served as the city counselor for the City of Werring, was named New Counselor of the Year (counselors with three or fewer years’ experience). He was a 2019 KBS delegate and a 2020 graduate of Anderson County High School in Garnett. Paul Curtis, Lansing, a junior-to-be at Lansing High School, received the William “Bill” F. Stahl Outstanding Justice Award, given to the outstanding member of the Boys State of Kansas Supreme Court as voted on by his Supreme Court peers. The award is presented in recognition of outstanding commitment to justice under the law and dedicated service to Boys State of Kansas. Stahl, of Junction City, Kan., passed away in September 2015 and was a longtime supporter of the ALBSK. Nick Hohman, Olathe, Kan., a senior-to-be at Blue Valley Southwest High School in Overland Park, Kan., was named the Outstanding Senator (representing Eisenhower County), and Eddie Johnson, Wichita, Kan., a senior-to-be at Andover (Kan.) High School, was named the Outstanding State Representative (representing Seitz County). Zachary Amsterdam, Leawood, Kan., a senior-to-be at Blue Valley North High School in Overland Park, was named the American Legion Department of Kansas winner of the Samsung American Legion Scholarship. As the state winner, Amsterdam receives a $1,250 scholarship and his application moves on to the national level where he could receive a $5,000 award as a national runner-up or $10,000 scholarship as a national scholar. During “American Legion Night” on June 8, the American Legion Boys State of Kansas recognized American Legion Department of Kansas past commander (2020-22) Marri Krupco, Blue Mound, Kan., by naming a Kansas Boys State city in her honor beginning with the 2023 KBS session. The 85th session of the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksbstate.org/" target="_blank">American Legion Boys State of Kansas</a>&nbsp;is scheduled to be held the week of Sunday, June 4, through Saturday, June 10, 2023, again at Kansas State University. For information on becoming a delegate, nominating a delegate or sponsoring a delegate, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ksbstate.org/" target="_blank">https://ksbstate.org</a>. The following is a list of this year’s ALBSK delegates from NW Kansas: Smith Center &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp;Nathan Bryan, Smith Center High SchoolHays &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp;Jensen Brull, Thomas More Prep-Marian High School &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp;Jordin Myers, Hays High SchoolGoodland &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp;Harrison Bhend, Goodland High School Wallace &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp;Gabe Johnson, Wallace County High School

NW Kansans take part in American Legion Boys State 

In vitro fertilization (IVF) faces an uncertain future in Kansas if the abortion amendment on the August 2nd ballot passes.&nbsp;

The U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned precedent on&nbsp;Roe v. Wade, allowing states to ban abortion. Voters now have a direct say in whether abortion remains legal in Kansas.&nbsp;

If the abortion amendment passes with a “yes” vote, then the Kansas legislature can ban abortion under any circumstance. If the amendment fails with a “no” vote, then abortion remains legal but heavily restricted in Kansas.&nbsp;

Quoting the Mayo Clinic, IVF “is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

IVF involves medication and surgery to implant fertilized eggs in a uterus. It often involves fertilizing multiple embryos to increase the chance of a successful and healthy pregnancy.&nbsp;

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that about 2 percent of annual American births occur via IVF. Americans who use the procedure often face infertility challenges and recurrent miscarriage due to genetic problems.&nbsp;

Vague language in state abortion bans threatens IVF. Many bans declare that life begins at fertilization. They criminalize terminating fertilized embryos and the broad wording in many can readily be interpreted as criminalizing IVF. Indeed, doctors are widely concerned that abortion bans might soon be used to ban or limit IVF.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The easy “fix” to safeguard IVF is for politicians to explicitly exempt it from abortion bans. However, many conservative politicians are reluctant to do that.&nbsp;

A recent&nbsp;Washington Post&nbsp;analysis documents that dozens of anti-abortion bills introduced in state legislatures since 2010 fail to explicitly safeguard IVF. That includes Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This year, a conservative lawmaker in Kansas introduced House Bill (HB) 2746. It bans abortion except in very limited circumstances, with no exception for rape, incest, or many threats to a woman’s life or health. It makes no apparent exception for IVF.&nbsp;&nbsp;

HB 2746 didn’t pass, but the Republican House Majority Leader didn’t rule out considering it in 2023 when speaking to the&nbsp;Kansas City Star.&nbsp;

National surveys show that only about 15 percent of Americans consider IVF immoral. That minority skews toward Republican-leaning religious conservatives.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Many conservative politicians who are anti-abortion might worry that defending IVF will anger Republican primary voters, perhaps fearing twisted campaign accusations of being “pro-abortion.”&nbsp;

Other conservative politicians openly oppose IVF on moral grounds, though they rarely propose banning it. The closest Kansas has come to an IVF ban is when Republicans considered Senate Bill 302 in 2014. That bill, which failed, criminalized surrogate pregnancy in Kansas, and applied to IVF and artificial insemination.&nbsp;

If the August abortion amendment fails, then the Kansas legislature cannot pass an abortion ban that might ultimately threaten IVF in our state.&nbsp;

But, if the abortion amendment passes, then the Kansas legislature could pass an abortion ban like HB 2746 that doesn’t safeguard IVF. That would leave the legal status of IVF in Kansas in limbo.&nbsp;

Some conservative lawmakers might be perfectly content to intentionally “oops” their way into threatening IVF despite there being an easy out to that situation. But, the easy political choice for politicians could cost Kansans seeking fertility treatment, and ultimately harm Kansas families.&nbsp;

Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575644168170.png" alt="Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>In vitro fertilization (IVF) faces an uncertain future in Kansas if the abortion amendment on the August 2nd ballot passes.&nbsp;The U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned precedent on&nbsp;Roe v. Wade, allowing states to ban abortion. Voters now have a direct say in whether abortion remains legal in Kansas.&nbsp;If the abortion amendment passes with a “yes” vote, then the Kansas legislature can ban abortion under any circumstance. If the amendment fails with a “no” vote, then abortion remains legal but heavily restricted in Kansas.&nbsp;What is IVF?&nbsp;Quoting the Mayo Clinic, IVF “is a complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child.”&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IVF involves medication and surgery to implant fertilized eggs in a uterus. It often involves fertilizing multiple embryos to increase the chance of a successful and healthy pregnancy.&nbsp;The Centers for Disease Control estimates that about 2 percent of annual American births occur via IVF. Americans who use the procedure often face infertility challenges and recurrent miscarriage due to genetic problems.&nbsp;How do abortion bans affect IVF?&nbsp;Vague language in state abortion bans threatens IVF. Many bans declare that life begins at fertilization. They criminalize terminating fertilized embryos and the broad wording in many can readily be interpreted as criminalizing IVF. Indeed, doctors are widely concerned that abortion bans might soon be used to ban or limit IVF.&nbsp;&nbsp;The easy “fix” to safeguard IVF is for politicians to explicitly exempt it from abortion bans. However, many conservative politicians are reluctant to do that.&nbsp;A recent&nbsp;Washington Post&nbsp;analysis documents that dozens of anti-abortion bills introduced in state legislatures since 2010 fail to explicitly safeguard IVF. That includes Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;This year, a conservative lawmaker in Kansas introduced House Bill (HB) 2746. It bans abortion except in very limited circumstances, with no exception for rape, incest, or many threats to a woman’s life or health. It makes no apparent exception for IVF.&nbsp;&nbsp;HB 2746 didn’t pass, but the Republican House Majority Leader didn’t rule out considering it in 2023 when speaking to the&nbsp;Kansas City Star.&nbsp;Why not shield IVF?&nbsp;National surveys show that only about 15 percent of Americans consider IVF immoral. That minority skews toward Republican-leaning religious conservatives.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many conservative politicians who are anti-abortion might worry that defending IVF will anger Republican primary voters, perhaps fearing twisted campaign accusations of being “pro-abortion.”&nbsp;Other conservative politicians openly oppose IVF on moral grounds, though they rarely propose banning it. The closest Kansas has come to an IVF ban is when Republicans considered Senate Bill 302 in 2014. That bill, which failed, criminalized surrogate pregnancy in Kansas, and applied to IVF and artificial insemination.&nbsp;How does August matter?&nbsp;If the August abortion amendment fails, then the Kansas legislature cannot pass an abortion ban that might ultimately threaten IVF in our state.&nbsp;But, if the abortion amendment passes, then the Kansas legislature could pass an abortion ban like HB 2746 that doesn’t safeguard IVF. That would leave the legal status of IVF in Kansas in limbo.&nbsp;Some conservative lawmakers might be perfectly content to intentionally “oops” their way into threatening IVF despite there being an easy out to that situation. But, the easy political choice for politicians could cost Kansans seeking fertility treatment, and ultimately harm Kansas families.&nbsp;Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: Abortion and the future of IVF treatment

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656708211852.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>

A few years ago, while out cruising the backroads near Inman, we discovered a group of blue heron nests high in trees along the river. We stop by each spring to check on them and to marvel at the&nbsp;almost comical sight of great blue herons standing tall in the middle of hodge-podge collections of twigs and leaves in the top of cottonwood trees. We checked on them just recently, and they are there again this year. I’m reminded of a&nbsp;funny&nbsp;conversation I had&nbsp;with a nursing home resident a couple years before I retired.

That particular day&nbsp;while walking down the hall at&nbsp;the large nursing home where I worked as a maintenance technician, I passed by a sunroom where an elder was working on a crossword puzzle. Liz&nbsp;was&nbsp;a classy lady whom I love talking with, so I swung in for some conversation. The long windows in that sunroom overlook Inman’s nice little park pond, where a great blue heron was fishing along the bank. She saw me watching the heron and asked “Are you watching the shitepoke?”&nbsp;I turned and asked her&nbsp;“What&nbsp;did you call it?”&nbsp;“A shitepoke,” she stated; “Are you watching the shitepoke?”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>A few years ago, while out cruising the backroads near Inman, we discovered a group of blue heron nests high in trees along the river. We stop by each spring to check on them and to marvel at the&nbsp;almost comical sight of great blue herons standing tall in the middle of hodge-podge collections of twigs and leaves in the top of cottonwood trees. We checked on them just recently, and they are there again this year. I’m reminded of a&nbsp;funny&nbsp;conversation I had&nbsp;with a nursing home resident a couple years before I retired.That particular day&nbsp;while walking down the hall at&nbsp;the large nursing home where I worked as a maintenance technician, I passed by a sunroom where an elder was working on a crossword puzzle. Liz&nbsp;was&nbsp;a classy lady whom I love talking with, so I swung in for some conversation. The long windows in that sunroom overlook Inman’s nice little park pond, where a great blue heron was fishing along the bank. She saw me watching the heron and asked “Are you watching the shitepoke?”&nbsp;I turned and asked her&nbsp;“What&nbsp;did you call it?”&nbsp;“A shitepoke,” she stated; “Are you watching the shitepoke?”I remember hearing my grandpa talk&nbsp;about shitepokes&nbsp;when I was a kid but had no idea he was talking about herons. As I stood there in the sunroom, chuckling at what Liz had&nbsp;just&nbsp;said, another elder who heard nothing of our conversation walked into the room and promptly asked “Are you&nbsp;watching that&nbsp;shitepoke&nbsp;over there?”&nbsp;Apparently the slang name “shitepoke”&nbsp;is an old country name&nbsp;given generations ago to any member of the heron family because of behavior I guess I have never witnessed.&nbsp;Evidently herons have a habit of defecating when startled and flushed from their hunting spot, often leaving a long white ribbon of digested fish parts in the air as they flee. I searched at length but nowhere could I find a language or nationality of origin, but EVERYTHING&nbsp;I found agreed on what it meant. The last four letters “poke” literally means a sack of some sort, and&nbsp;from watching British detective shows on TV, I know&nbsp;the first five letters “shite” literally mean _ _ _ _ or excrement, thus the term “shitepoke” was meant to mean a sack of excrement.&nbsp;Apparently&nbsp;our&nbsp;ancestorsnamed the birds based on what they observed.I also found that the term shitepoke is supposedly used&nbsp;(understandably)&nbsp;in some parts of the country as a derogatory term. The explanation went as follows: “A&nbsp;shitepoke is someone who revels in the drama of needless commotion accompanied by a lot of noise and fanfare, ultimately leaving someone else to clean up the mess. Simplified, a shitepoke is someone who’s only contribution to an issue or situation is a load of shite.”&nbsp;On one of the many&nbsp;discussion sites I visited,&nbsp;someone remembered&nbsp;never hearing their parents swear, but rather hearing them say “Oh shitepoke” when angry.A few other common birds have nicknames that reflect something obvious about their behavior. Baltimore Orioles make those amazing hanging nests, earning them the nickname “hang nest.” American Goldfinches are also known as “thistle birds” because of their love for thistle seed.&nbsp;Cuckoos for&nbsp;some reason can&nbsp;often be heard just before a rain storm, prompting the old timers to call them “rain crows&nbsp;or storm crows,”&nbsp;and the nickname “bob white” for quail should be self-explanatory.&nbsp;I found a few other nicknames for herons also, most of them more honorable than shitepoke.&nbsp;There was Ol’ Cranky, Big Cranky, Grandfather, Crane, Blue Crane, Gray Crane, Long John and Poor Joe. Over the years I’ve written a couple stories on great blue herons, and now I’m wondering if readers found them to be boring and mundane cause’ I’ve always just referred to them as great blue herons and never anything as interesting as shitepoke or Ol’ Cranky.&nbsp;Before my conversation with&nbsp;Liz&nbsp;ended that day, I remember asking&nbsp;if she ever heard anyone say what they thought the word shitepoke meant. She thought for a second, then said “Nope; we just always called them “shitepokes” and&nbsp;I&nbsp;guess&nbsp;that’s what they were!”Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.