TOPEKA — Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland on Wednesday announced two new hires for the agency. Jade Piros de Carvalho will serve as the new Director of the Office of Broadband Development, and Patrick Lowry has been named the Director of Marketing and Communications.

Jade Piros de Carvalho is a seasoned broadband executive with experience in government affairs, community relations, business development and marketing for the Kansas-based rural broadband provider, IdeaTek. Along with managing advocacy efforts for broadband expansion policy, Piros de Carvalho also spearheaded digital equity efforts for the company. She will direct Commerce’s efforts to drive growth and expansion of broadband throughout the state.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Jade to our Commerce team. Her breadth of knowledge and experience with broadband development will take us to the next level,” Toland said.&nbsp;“Jade will work tirelessly to ensure that we have the programs in place to expand broadband access across the entire state.”

Additionally, Piros de Carvalho brings nine years of local government experience as an elected official currently serving a third term as mayor for the city of Hutchinson. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Wichita State University and a Master of Public Affairs from the University of Missouri, Columbia.

"It is an honor to serve the state during this historic opportunity to bring every Kansan access to affordable high-speed broadband,”&nbsp;said Piros de Carvalho. “I look forward to collaborating with leaders across the state to ensure all Kansas communities have the broadband access needed for schools and businesses to thrive."

Patrick Lowry has extensive experience in the marketing and communications industry having served as the longtime editor and publisher of the Hays Daily News. His most recent roles include being the Director of Communications and Governmental Relations with the Community Care Network of Kansas and Director of Strategic Communication and Engagement with the Kansas Health Institute. Lowry holds an MBA from Benedictine College and will be based in Topeka.

“Patrick has an impressive track record of success as a marketing and communications leader who has a collaborative style and will ensure we market Kansas effectively to the world,” Toland said.&nbsp;“He will hit the ground running to promote our record-setting business development and recruitment efforts, workforce development initiatives, broadband opportunities, and community development efforts. Pat will be instrumental in telling the Kansas story to audiences near and far.”

Lowry will be instrumental in Commerce’s efforts to create a best-in-class marketing and communications strategy, working with internal and external partners to market Kansas as the best place to do business. Lowry will focus on maximizing communications efforts and channeling the communications team to support the overall strategic direction, coordinate messaging across platforms and ensure the right stories are being disseminated at the most opportune time.

“I am thrilled to join the Department of Commerce and help share the powerful message that is Kansas,”&nbsp;Lowry said. “The number of developments announced just in the past few months reveal the increasing strength of the Kansas economy—and the successful implementation of the Department’s strategic plan. I look forward to becoming part of a group of professionals working so diligently to ensure Kansas is a great place to live, work and play.”

Kansas Department of CommerceTOPEKA — Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland on Wednesday announced two new hires for the agency. Jade Piros de Carvalho will serve as the new Director of the Office of Broadband Development, and Patrick Lowry has been named the Director of Marketing and Communications.Jade Piros de Carvalho is a seasoned broadband executive with experience in government affairs, community relations, business development and marketing for the Kansas-based rural broadband provider, IdeaTek. Along with managing advocacy efforts for broadband expansion policy, Piros de Carvalho also spearheaded digital equity efforts for the company. She will direct Commerce’s efforts to drive growth and expansion of broadband throughout the state.“I’m thrilled to welcome Jade to our Commerce team. Her breadth of knowledge and experience with broadband development will take us to the next level,” Toland said.&nbsp;“Jade will work tirelessly to ensure that we have the programs in place to expand broadband access across the entire state.”Additionally, Piros de Carvalho brings nine years of local government experience as an elected official currently serving a third term as mayor for the city of Hutchinson. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Wichita State University and a Master of Public Affairs from the University of Missouri, Columbia."It is an honor to serve the state during this historic opportunity to bring every Kansan access to affordable high-speed broadband,”&nbsp;said Piros de Carvalho. “I look forward to collaborating with leaders across the state to ensure all Kansas communities have the broadband access needed for schools and businesses to thrive."Patrick Lowry has extensive experience in the marketing and communications industry having served as the longtime editor and publisher of the Hays Daily News. His most recent roles include being the Director of Communications and Governmental Relations with the Community Care Network of Kansas and Director of Strategic Communication and Engagement with the Kansas Health Institute. Lowry holds an MBA from Benedictine College and will be based in Topeka.“Patrick has an impressive track record of success as a marketing and communications leader who has a collaborative style and will ensure we market Kansas effectively to the world,” Toland said.&nbsp;“He will hit the ground running to promote our record-setting business development and recruitment efforts, workforce development initiatives, broadband opportunities, and community development efforts. Pat will be instrumental in telling the Kansas story to audiences near and far.”Lowry will be instrumental in Commerce’s efforts to create a best-in-class marketing and communications strategy, working with internal and external partners to market Kansas as the best place to do business. Lowry will focus on maximizing communications efforts and channeling the communications team to support the overall strategic direction, coordinate messaging across platforms and ensure the right stories are being disseminated at the most opportune time.“I am thrilled to join the Department of Commerce and help share the powerful message that is Kansas,”&nbsp;Lowry said. “The number of developments announced just in the past few months reveal the increasing strength of the Kansas economy—and the successful implementation of the Department’s strategic plan. I look forward to becoming part of a group of professionals working so diligently to ensure Kansas is a great place to live, work and play.”

Former Hays Daily publisher joins Kansas Commerce Department

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported seven new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from May 21 to May 27.

KDHE now reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.

Five northwest area counties were listed in KDHE's high incidence classification — Trego, Gove, Thomas, Sheridan and Lane.

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

Since reporting began, there have been 7,184 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths as of April 1. KDHE has also discontinued county-by-county death totals.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654104100936.png" alt="Statewide COVID-19 curve" />
 <figcaption>Statewide COVID-19 curve</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported seven new COVID-19 cases had been identified in Ellis County from May 21 to May 27.KDHE now reports updated case numbers weekly on Wednesdays.Five northwest area counties were listed in KDHE's high incidence classification — Trego, Gove, Thomas, Sheridan and Lane.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 7,184 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths as of April 1. KDHE has also discontinued county-by-county death totals.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654104162570.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 7 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. in past week

Memorial Day weekend marked the unofficial start of summer and a dangerous time of year for young drivers. Nationwide, more than 30 percent of deaths involving teen drivers occur during what’s called the “100 Deadliest Days” - a period that runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day.&nbsp;

For every mile driven, new teen drivers (ages 16-17 years old) are three times more likely to be involved in a deadly crash compared to adults.&nbsp;Now that school is out for summer, these inexperienced teen drivers will have more time to spend on the road. That means more time driving at night and potentially engaging in risky behaviors like speeding, texting, or simply sharing the vehicle with teen passengers. The risk gets even greater when you add more vehicles on the road.

“This summer could prove to be even more dangerous for teen drivers as the 100 Deadliest Days coincides with what is expected to be a busier summer driving season than last year,” said Brian Ortner,&nbsp;spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “AAA expects two years’ worth of pent up travel demand&nbsp;to increase&nbsp;in the coming months. That means more traffic on our roadways, which raises the crash risk – particularly for young, inexperienced drivers.”

100 Deadliest Days statistics from 2011 - 2020

“Teens’ inexperience behind the wheel makes them more susceptible to dangerous driving behaviors – like speeding, distracted driving, and driving while drowsy,” continued Ortner. “Even young drivers that are prepared and focused carry an increased crash risk due to their lack of experience behind the wheel. That’s why it’s so important for parents to play an active role in guiding their teens toward safe driving behaviors.”

Understanding the risks and knowing the facts will prepare both you and your teen for the road ahead:

The single most important thing parents can do to keep their teens safe behind the wheel is to be actively involved in the learning to drive process:

Quality driver education is critical in developing safe driving behaviors for teens. That’s why AAA, a leader in driver safety for over 75 years, developed an online, supplemental program for teen drivers.

AAA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUSgL-2FhqhCReC61EG6CrcRuk-2FrjTH-2Fj2M3EDkjLRgdta2iHVPxCPlBOb6ur8d5A-2BadWSLdZdo-2Bm9yR-2FEhaPh0AU-2BzsOrZxRACCRClE4O3VYYINFt5_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9il1EQT-2FBBs2nAu1yZVaDjVwYVT29pYlc6fjzk4I7Vi36m-2FVvQW6IhWDwdRNUAPAbsVnXd2ZtA-2F97Qu9PO2-2FmxPIW7TiqrQqALujS3i4nS4tl6iCzgJWavjHg9g76cnE5ZYhb2JBd-2Bwn-2FZYU42CL35NyFE7hH3QSovooaXXp00uvHl1w-2BrSyTGuqELr9YuKRtCgCaw2MtAN4ufBoiIopN3OuMGjTITvi6HHiH9WQW9Y7urNZ99XgaOsxKv-2FPZ4xOHyPIbudTCbvqRul8iPLZknjJpACxcT28Bx-2FZXadGh-2FGE-3D" target="_blank">How to Drive Online</a>&nbsp;provides a solid foundation of the knowledge and skills necessary to reduce a teen’s risk behind the wheel. This program is an online, 25 hour course that features:

The AAA Approved Driving School Network is designed to help identify the best driver training resources in your local community. These schools have passed AAA’s stringent standards and offer quality curriculum as well as the best value for students.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTr-2FV8TjgJOx7JeSbExGXhUUD0Gebz6mzDQOoendlVf6WQU4pxdrUfWIKyhPb-2BMnHQ-3D-3DSkrO_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9il1EQT-2FBBs2nAu1yZVaDjVwYVT29pYlc6fjzk4I7Vi36m-2FVvQW6IhWDwdRNUAPAbsVnXd2ZtA-2F97Qu9PO2-2FmxPIW7TiqrQqALujS3i4nS4tl6iCzgJWavjHg9g76cnE5ZYhb2JBd-2Bwn-2FZYU42CL35M5zuX0mS-2F07eGAjOKpJ-2BnAGjaavjFX5MxyK3VTu0IL9Y-2BY7yeZtQz881Q-2FRiuZMKCzGA0dxGQ-2Bh-2FfVKHCI9E0TlWiw71K3QI49AFW6Av-2FzTzUqxv8Sh9Btm5GVAFSxwxtj4tk27Wtrl0n7621YBzrY-3D" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;to find our&nbsp;AAA Approved Driving schools&nbsp;in your area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654094609382.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By AAAMemorial Day weekend marked the unofficial start of summer and a dangerous time of year for young drivers. Nationwide, more than 30 percent of deaths involving teen drivers occur during what’s called the “100 Deadliest Days” - a period that runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day.&nbsp;For every mile driven, new teen drivers (ages 16-17 years old) are three times more likely to be involved in a deadly crash compared to adults.&nbsp;Now that school is out for summer, these inexperienced teen drivers will have more time to spend on the road. That means more time driving at night and potentially engaging in risky behaviors like speeding, texting, or simply sharing the vehicle with teen passengers. The risk gets even greater when you add more vehicles on the road.“This summer could prove to be even more dangerous for teen drivers as the 100 Deadliest Days coincides with what is expected to be a busier summer driving season than last year,” said Brian Ortner,&nbsp;spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “AAA expects two years’ worth of pent up travel demand&nbsp;to increase&nbsp;in the coming months. That means more traffic on our roadways, which raises the crash risk – particularly for young, inexperienced drivers.”100 Deadliest Days statistics from 2011 - 2020Nationwide&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Each year an average of&nbsp;2,063 teen drivers&nbsp;are involved in fatal crashes; 642 of those (31%) occurred during the 100 deadliest days</li><li>More than&nbsp;7,124&nbsp;people died in teen-related summertime crashes from 2011 to 2020.</li><li>That’s more than&nbsp;seven people a day each summer&nbsp;compared to the rest of the year (six people/day).&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>In Nebraska<ul>
 <li>An average of&nbsp;6 teen drivers&nbsp;are involved in fatal crashes between the Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.</li><li>Every year, an average total of 20 people are killed in teen driver-related crashes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nearly a third&nbsp;of those fatalities (7 deaths) occur during the 100 deadliest days.</li><li>During the past 10 summers,&nbsp;65 people&nbsp;have died in teen driver-related crashes out of a total of 203 over the past 10 years.</li>
 </ul>Risky Habits for Teen Drivers“Teens’ inexperience behind the wheel makes them more susceptible to dangerous driving behaviors – like speeding, distracted driving, and driving while drowsy,” continued Ortner. “Even young drivers that are prepared and focused carry an increased crash risk due to their lack of experience behind the wheel. That’s why it’s so important for parents to play an active role in guiding their teens toward safe driving behaviors.”Understanding the risks and knowing the facts will prepare both you and your teen for the road ahead:<ul>
 <li>Driving with teen passengers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Teen drivers’ crash risks multiply when they have teen passengers.&nbsp; Set limits and enforce them.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Driving at night.&nbsp;Night driving is more dangerous due to limited visibility, fatigue, and impaired drivers&nbsp;on the road.&nbsp;This is especially a risky time for teens.&nbsp;Limit the time your novice driver spends behind the wheel at night.&nbsp;</li><li>Not wearing a safety belt.&nbsp;Wearing a safety belt greatly reduces the risk of being hurt or killed in a crash. Make a rule: everyone buckles up for every trip.</li><li>Speeding.&nbsp;Speed is a leading factor in crashes for teens and adults. Teens need to follow posted speed limits and parents should set a good example and strong rules. Teens should also learn how to adjust their speed based on roadway factors like reduced traction and visibility and varying traffic volumes.</li><li>Distracted driving.&nbsp;&nbsp;Teen passengers are the biggest distraction to teen drivers, but cell phones come in second.&nbsp;Many teens admit to interacting with their phone and in-car infotainment systems while behind the wheel despite clear dangers. Make a family rule covering these and other distractions that everyone abides by.</li><li>Drowsy driving.&nbsp;Teens have a hard time getting enough sleep and often struggle with drowsiness. Drowsy driving is as dangerous as drunk driving, and teens have the highest risk.&nbsp;Ensure everyone who is behind the wheel has gotten enough sleep.</li><li>Impaired driving.&nbsp;Driving impaired from alcohol and other drugs puts everyone at risk.&nbsp;Enforce strict zero tolerance rules with your teen and be a good role model.</li>
 </ul>AAA Advice for ParentsThe single most important thing parents can do to keep their teens safe behind the wheel is to be actively involved in the learning to drive process:<ul>
 <li>Talk with teens early and often&nbsp;about abstaining from dangerous behavior behind the wheel, such as speeding, impairment and distracted driving.</li><li>Teach by example- Maintain appropriate space around your vehicle, adjust your speed to the conditions and minimize risky behavior when you drive.</li><li>Establish a&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=iesGENwk9ZVmCixsbOYoOEEJw10UHVlDMLqjeX7HJiTl5nKHxk4utFi5wzlrU7d3m8bM52JWL0RZ1coB9y86uzjFqGPYvIf0V5bnlgzRkQ1xfDBbo4lzkRSDMl6dLiLbTCWocORpRz1lAAC01tAJ2g-3D-3DextB_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9il1EQT-2FBBs2nAu1yZVaDjVwYVT29pYlc6fjzk4I7Vi36m-2FVvQW6IhWDwdRNUAPAbsVnXd2ZtA-2F97Qu9PO2-2FmxPIW7TiqrQqALujS3i4nS4tl6iCzgJWavjHg9g76cnE5ZYhb2JBd-2Bwn-2FZYU42CL35H-2BOn21ISTsBJaYsjVI06CD-2FeuZgcwVuJcPPoUdORGFpvhXmNX2HZcNbhC-2FP-2FmMF-2BGmArtW3WwQskYtmPM-2BJ3dghxD3WWF9-2F0DOkHZF8ZJSTNNN3ahxHECMgheT3Tkkkp0FYs8vkYbTLClZWFUYj8n0-3D" target="_blank">parent-teen driving agreement</a>&nbsp;that sets family rules for teen drivers.</li><li>Conduct at least 50 hours of&nbsp;supervised practice driving&nbsp;with their teen.</li><li>Enroll your teen in both&nbsp;online and in-person driving courses.</li><li>Talk with your teens about&nbsp;anticipating other driver’s mistakes&nbsp;and how to adjust their driving to others.</li>
 </ul>AAA’s How to Drive Program for TeensQuality driver education is critical in developing safe driving behaviors for teens. That’s why AAA, a leader in driver safety for over 75 years, developed an online, supplemental program for teen drivers.AAA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUSgL-2FhqhCReC61EG6CrcRuk-2FrjTH-2Fj2M3EDkjLRgdta2iHVPxCPlBOb6ur8d5A-2BadWSLdZdo-2Bm9yR-2FEhaPh0AU-2BzsOrZxRACCRClE4O3VYYINFt5_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9il1EQT-2FBBs2nAu1yZVaDjVwYVT29pYlc6fjzk4I7Vi36m-2FVvQW6IhWDwdRNUAPAbsVnXd2ZtA-2F97Qu9PO2-2FmxPIW7TiqrQqALujS3i4nS4tl6iCzgJWavjHg9g76cnE5ZYhb2JBd-2Bwn-2FZYU42CL35NyFE7hH3QSovooaXXp00uvHl1w-2BrSyTGuqELr9YuKRtCgCaw2MtAN4ufBoiIopN3OuMGjTITvi6HHiH9WQW9Y7urNZ99XgaOsxKv-2FPZ4xOHyPIbudTCbvqRul8iPLZknjJpACxcT28Bx-2FZXadGh-2FGE-3D" target="_blank">How to Drive Online</a>&nbsp;provides a solid foundation of the knowledge and skills necessary to reduce a teen’s risk behind the wheel. This program is an online, 25 hour course that features:<ul>
 <li>Convenient, self-paced delivery</li><li>Research-based curriculum</li><li>Videos, simulations, and interactive exercises to enhance content retention</li><li>Optional virtual parent session to help educate parents on the learning to drive process</li>
 </ul>Behind-the-Wheel TrainingThe AAA Approved Driving School Network is designed to help identify the best driver training resources in your local community. These schools have passed AAA’s stringent standards and offer quality curriculum as well as the best value for students.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTr-2FV8TjgJOx7JeSbExGXhUUD0Gebz6mzDQOoendlVf6WQU4pxdrUfWIKyhPb-2BMnHQ-3D-3DSkrO_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9il1EQT-2FBBs2nAu1yZVaDjVwYVT29pYlc6fjzk4I7Vi36m-2FVvQW6IhWDwdRNUAPAbsVnXd2ZtA-2F97Qu9PO2-2FmxPIW7TiqrQqALujS3i4nS4tl6iCzgJWavjHg9g76cnE5ZYhb2JBd-2Bwn-2FZYU42CL35M5zuX0mS-2F07eGAjOKpJ-2BnAGjaavjFX5MxyK3VTu0IL9Y-2BY7yeZtQz881Q-2FRiuZMKCzGA0dxGQ-2Bh-2FfVKHCI9E0TlWiw71K3QI49AFW6Av-2FzTzUqxv8Sh9Btm5GVAFSxwxtj4tk27Wtrl0n7621YBzrY-3D" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;to find our&nbsp;AAA Approved Driving schools&nbsp;in your area.

AAA: 100 deadliest days for teen drivers has begun

Crude-oil prices surged on Tuesday, gaining nearly two percent in New York, where the benchmark contract was fetching more than $117 per barrel by lunchtime. Some transactions earlier in the day topped $119, approaching the peak back in March, when prices reached a 14-year high of $126.50. London Brent was trading over $123 per barrel Tuesday. In McPherson, prices also reached a nearly 14-year high. Kansas Common crude last week topped $105 per barrel for the first time since August of 2008. Gasoline prices on Friday dropped a tenth of a cent per gallon nationwide, the first drop in the national average since April 24th, and a rarity going into a holiday weekend. The auto club Triple-A says national diesel prices also dropped slightly. By Tuesday, average prices for regular gasoline were up three cents to $4.62 per gallon, another all-time record high. Diesel prices were down slightly to $5.52 per gallon. The average across Kansas was $4.12 per gallon. Moscow announced it will find other importers for its oil shortly after the world’s largest trading bloc agreed to impose a partial embargo by the end of the year. Leaders of the European Union agreed to an oil embargo on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. The import ban would exempt oil shipments via pipeline, which make up about one-third of the EU's purchases from Russia. The embargo will be phased in over several months. Despite international sanctions, Russia has netted $20 billion in oil-patch revenue each month this year. The International Energy Agency reports combined sales this year of eight million barrels per day of crude oil and petroleum products.&nbsp; About half of Russia's natural gas customers have complied with Vladimir Putin's demand to open accounts with a Russian bank and manage natural gas purchases in Russian currency. It's not clear yet if doing so violates current sanctions. Meanwhile Russian crude shipments continue at a rate of more than 3.4 million barrels per day. Bloomberg reported tankers heading to India, the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean during the week through May 20th. Baker Hughes reported 727 active drilling rigs across the US. The Rotary Rig Count last week marked a drop of two oil rigs and an increase of one rig seeking natural gas. The counts in Texas and Oklahoma were each up one, while the count in Louisiana dropped by three rigs. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 518 wells spudded across Kansas so far this year, and 356 wells in various stages of drilling and completion. The Rig Count in Kansas was up two rigs to 23 in the eastern half of the state, and up one at 31 rigs in Western Kansas. Drilling was underway on two leases in Barton County and one in Stafford County. Kansas operators completed 25 wells last week, five of them in eastern Kansas and 20 west of Wichita, including one in Ellis County. IOGSI says that makes 650 completed wells so far this year, compared to 300 at this point last year. Regulators in Kansas okayed 23 new drilling locations last week, approving 12 drilling permits east of Wichita and 13 in Western Kansas. Last year, Kansas crude-oil output reached its lowest point on record, just shy of 28 million barrels for the year, or 76-thousand barrels per day. The latest report from the Kansas Geological Survey shows production in January of this year dipped even lower, to about 71-thousand barrels per day. US crude inventories dropped by a million barrels to just under 420 million barrels, as of May 20th. The Energy Information Administration says that's about 14% below the five-year average for this time of year. Gasoline stockpiles were down half a million barrels, and are about eight percent below the five-year average for this time of year. The government reported a slight dip in domestic crude production. In the week through May 20th, US operators pumped 11.86 million barrels per day, down 87-thousand barrels per day for the week. EIA reported US crude-oil imports of 6.5 million barrels per day last week, down about 82-thousand barrels per day from the week before.&nbsp; US oil-by-rail traffic last week was down more than nine percent from a year ago, but marked an increase of 702 tanker carloads week-over-week. The Association of American Railroads reports 9,805 tankers delivered petroleum and petroleum products in the week through May 21st. Canadian traffic was up more than 800 tanker carloads, and is nearly thirty percent ahead last year at this time. An oil-patch trade group reports the state of Texas added another 5,200 jobs to its oil-patch exploration and production payroll from March to April. That brings the total to 190,400 jobs. The Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners says the April figure marks an increase of more than 26-thousand positions its count a year earlier. A federal judge has now blocked a huge drilling program approved by the Trump Administration in western Colorado. US District Judge Marcia Krieger said she vacated previous agency approvals based on the agencies' own admission they had failed to follow environmental law in considering the permits. Gunnison Energy has already drilled the first well. The project involves 35 wells on five pads across 30-thousand acres of US Forest Service land near Gunnison, Colorado. U.S. President Joe Biden has not ruled out using export restrictions to ease soaring domestic fuel prices. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm told reporters last week that, in her words, the president is not taking any tools off the table. Government tallies show the US exported around 8.6 million barrels per day of oil and refined products in 2021, slightly more than it imported. Saudi Arabia’s oil exports in March reached their highest in at least six years, a billion dollars a day, up 123% over a year ago. Production in the kingdom rose to 10.3 million barrels a day in March, with Brent oil prices averaging $112 a barrel.&nbsp; As Texas officials hunt for financial firms hostile to the energy industry, Wall Street is bowing to the pressure in order to continue doing business with the state. Bloomberg has acquired the replies of twenty firms that were sent demand letters from the State Comptroller.&nbsp; A bill approved last year denies state contracts to companies that restrict or prohibit doing business with energy companies. One small Dallas-based firm replied “Hell no.”

By JOHN P. TRETBARCrude-oil prices surged on Tuesday, gaining nearly two percent in New York, where the benchmark contract was fetching more than $117 per barrel by lunchtime. Some transactions earlier in the day topped $119, approaching the peak back in March, when prices reached a 14-year high of $126.50. London Brent was trading over $123 per barrel Tuesday. In McPherson, prices also reached a nearly 14-year high. Kansas Common crude last week topped $105 per barrel for the first time since August of 2008. Gasoline prices on Friday dropped a tenth of a cent per gallon nationwide, the first drop in the national average since April 24th, and a rarity going into a holiday weekend. The auto club Triple-A says national diesel prices also dropped slightly. By Tuesday, average prices for regular gasoline were up three cents to $4.62 per gallon, another all-time record high. Diesel prices were down slightly to $5.52 per gallon. The average across Kansas was $4.12 per gallon. Moscow announced it will find other importers for its oil shortly after the world’s largest trading bloc agreed to impose a partial embargo by the end of the year. Leaders of the European Union agreed to an oil embargo on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. The import ban would exempt oil shipments via pipeline, which make up about one-third of the EU's purchases from Russia. The embargo will be phased in over several months. Despite international sanctions, Russia has netted $20 billion in oil-patch revenue each month this year. The International Energy Agency reports combined sales this year of eight million barrels per day of crude oil and petroleum products.&nbsp; About half of Russia's natural gas customers have complied with Vladimir Putin's demand to open accounts with a Russian bank and manage natural gas purchases in Russian currency. It's not clear yet if doing so violates current sanctions. Meanwhile Russian crude shipments continue at a rate of more than 3.4 million barrels per day. Bloomberg reported tankers heading to India, the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean during the week through May 20th. Baker Hughes reported 727 active drilling rigs across the US. The Rotary Rig Count last week marked a drop of two oil rigs and an increase of one rig seeking natural gas. The counts in Texas and Oklahoma were each up one, while the count in Louisiana dropped by three rigs. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 518 wells spudded across Kansas so far this year, and 356 wells in various stages of drilling and completion. The Rig Count in Kansas was up two rigs to 23 in the eastern half of the state, and up one at 31 rigs in Western Kansas. Drilling was underway on two leases in Barton County and one in Stafford County. Kansas operators completed 25 wells last week, five of them in eastern Kansas and 20 west of Wichita, including one in Ellis County. IOGSI says that makes 650 completed wells so far this year, compared to 300 at this point last year. Regulators in Kansas okayed 23 new drilling locations last week, approving 12 drilling permits east of Wichita and 13 in Western Kansas. Last year, Kansas crude-oil output reached its lowest point on record, just shy of 28 million barrels for the year, or 76-thousand barrels per day. The latest report from the Kansas Geological Survey shows production in January of this year dipped even lower, to about 71-thousand barrels per day. US crude inventories dropped by a million barrels to just under 420 million barrels, as of May 20th. The Energy Information Administration says that's about 14% below the five-year average for this time of year. Gasoline stockpiles were down half a million barrels, and are about eight percent below the five-year average for this time of year. The government reported a slight dip in domestic crude production. In the week through May 20th, US operators pumped 11.86 million barrels per day, down 87-thousand barrels per day for the week. EIA reported US crude-oil imports of 6.5 million barrels per day last week, down about 82-thousand barrels per day from the week before.&nbsp; US oil-by-rail traffic last week was down more than nine percent from a year ago, but marked an increase of 702 tanker carloads week-over-week. The Association of American Railroads reports 9,805 tankers delivered petroleum and petroleum products in the week through May 21st. Canadian traffic was up more than 800 tanker carloads, and is nearly thirty percent ahead last year at this time. An oil-patch trade group reports the state of Texas added another 5,200 jobs to its oil-patch exploration and production payroll from March to April. That brings the total to 190,400 jobs. The Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners says the April figure marks an increase of more than 26-thousand positions its count a year earlier. A federal judge has now blocked a huge drilling program approved by the Trump Administration in western Colorado. US District Judge Marcia Krieger said she vacated previous agency approvals based on the agencies' own admission they had failed to follow environmental law in considering the permits. Gunnison Energy has already drilled the first well. The project involves 35 wells on five pads across 30-thousand acres of US Forest Service land near Gunnison, Colorado. U.S. President Joe Biden has not ruled out using export restrictions to ease soaring domestic fuel prices. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm told reporters last week that, in her words, the president is not taking any tools off the table. Government tallies show the US exported around 8.6 million barrels per day of oil and refined products in 2021, slightly more than it imported. Saudi Arabia’s oil exports in March reached their highest in at least six years, a billion dollars a day, up 123% over a year ago. Production in the kingdom rose to 10.3 million barrels a day in March, with Brent oil prices averaging $112 a barrel.&nbsp; As Texas officials hunt for financial firms hostile to the energy industry, Wall Street is bowing to the pressure in order to continue doing business with the state. Bloomberg has acquired the replies of twenty firms that were sent demand letters from the State Comptroller.&nbsp; A bill approved last year denies state contracts to companies that restrict or prohibit doing business with energy companies. One small Dallas-based firm replied “Hell no.”

News From the Oil Patch: Crude prices surge after EU embargo

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher Memorial Day serves in my mind as the unofficial start of the summer, Independence Day the middle, and Labor Day the end. I am aware that this timeframe has inaccuracies, but this engrained set of time landmarks can’t be changed in my mind. And I don’t think I am alone. The popular agreement of Memorial Day being summer’s kick-off celebration brings with it criticism that too many people think of the holiday as an excuse to party or a day off instead of an opportunity to observe its true meaning. Memorial Day is intended to be a day of remembrance for the sacrifice military personnel who died in service to their country. Some people more broadly recognize the contributions of service in the armed forces on this day, which seems appropriate, too, as they have lost comrades and were willing to sacrifice for the country. My firm association of Memorial Day launching summer does surprise me a little as I don’t ever remember this weekend being associated with anything like vacation or party-like in my childhood. I have countless memories of gathering with a small crowd of community members at the local cemetery to watch the high school band play, see the VFW members present the colors, students leading the pledge of allegiance, speakers with words of remembrance, a prayer by local clergy and the chills of 21-gun salutes followed by taps for a somber ending. Memorial Day never felt like a celebration, but it also never really a time of mourning for me. Beyond the rituals of the ceremonies, I remember appropriately somber reflection on what it must be like for families who lost a loved one and whether or not I could willingly sacrifice my life for my country. I also remember anticipation to go to an event where I could visit with family members and friends from the community. Important parts of my character and values were being formed by attending those events. I was learning to take pride in my country, to feel and express gratitude for those who serve, to enjoy community, to feel empathy for those who have lost, and to think about how I could serve in my life. Another thing I remember is that there weren’t a lot of families or kids at the ceremonies. I am not sure if this is because other families where traveling or maybe some thought it too mature for children. I would guess that there are less families attending now than ever and that makes me sad. Memorial Day helped instill in me the patriotic ideals of our country: freedom, service and sacrifice. It built a sense of community and challenged me to think about how I could continue to contribute to that community. Some reading this will have attended Memorial Day ceremonies. Thank you for attending and taking time to remember, and build our communities. For others thoughts of military service may only have come from watching the latest “Top Gun” movie. You weren’t alone, it was a great movie. However, I would challenge you to make a little time to remember the sacrifices of others and to think about how you can serve your community in the future. And don’t forget to take your kids, they will remember the time with you and the lessons for the rest of their lives.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher Memorial Day serves in my mind as the unofficial start of the summer, Independence Day the middle, and Labor Day the end. I am aware that this timeframe has inaccuracies, but this engrained set of time landmarks can’t be changed in my mind. And I don’t think I am alone. The popular agreement of Memorial Day being summer’s kick-off celebration brings with it criticism that too many people think of the holiday as an excuse to party or a day off instead of an opportunity to observe its true meaning. Memorial Day is intended to be a day of remembrance for the sacrifice military personnel who died in service to their country. Some people more broadly recognize the contributions of service in the armed forces on this day, which seems appropriate, too, as they have lost comrades and were willing to sacrifice for the country. My firm association of Memorial Day launching summer does surprise me a little as I don’t ever remember this weekend being associated with anything like vacation or party-like in my childhood. I have countless memories of gathering with a small crowd of community members at the local cemetery to watch the high school band play, see the VFW members present the colors, students leading the pledge of allegiance, speakers with words of remembrance, a prayer by local clergy and the chills of 21-gun salutes followed by taps for a somber ending. Memorial Day never felt like a celebration, but it also never really a time of mourning for me. Beyond the rituals of the ceremonies, I remember appropriately somber reflection on what it must be like for families who lost a loved one and whether or not I could willingly sacrifice my life for my country. I also remember anticipation to go to an event where I could visit with family members and friends from the community. Important parts of my character and values were being formed by attending those events. I was learning to take pride in my country, to feel and express gratitude for those who serve, to enjoy community, to feel empathy for those who have lost, and to think about how I could serve in my life. Another thing I remember is that there weren’t a lot of families or kids at the ceremonies. I am not sure if this is because other families where traveling or maybe some thought it too mature for children. I would guess that there are less families attending now than ever and that makes me sad. Memorial Day helped instill in me the patriotic ideals of our country: freedom, service and sacrifice. It built a sense of community and challenged me to think about how I could continue to contribute to that community. Some reading this will have attended Memorial Day ceremonies. Thank you for attending and taking time to remember, and build our communities. For others thoughts of military service may only have come from watching the latest “Top Gun” movie. You weren’t alone, it was a great movie. However, I would challenge you to make a little time to remember the sacrifices of others and to think about how you can serve your community in the future. And don’t forget to take your kids, they will remember the time with you and the lessons for the rest of their lives."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: A day to remember

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1654025233773.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

The National Weather Service is calling for more precipitation in northwest Kansas overnight and Wednesday.

There is a 60 percent chance of showers, with a possible thunderstorm, beginning after 3 a.m. Showers will continue into Wednesday, with an 80 percent chance of showers and possible thunderstorms.

The NWS is predicting less than a half-inch of rainfall.

Skies will clear Wednesday evening, with a chance of additional showers returning Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1654007029765.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service is calling for more precipitation in northwest Kansas overnight and Wednesday.There is a 60 percent chance of showers, with a possible thunderstorm, beginning after 3 a.m. Showers will continue into Wednesday, with an 80 percent chance of showers and possible thunderstorms.The NWS is predicting less than a half-inch of rainfall.Skies will clear Wednesday evening, with a chance of additional showers returning Friday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Another round of beneficial rainfall is expected Tuesday night and early Wednesday. The heaviest rainfall is expected south and east of Dodge City, as usual. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/UnMbFaHgyt">pic.twitter.com/UnMbFaHgyt</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1531610048614367233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NWS: More rainfall heading for northwest Kansas

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Local officials expressed frustration with issues of lack of communication, lack of transportation and lack of beds that have led to long waiting periods for adults and juveniles needing inpatient psychiatric care in western Kansas.

High Plains Mental Health sponsored a meeting with the Scott Brunner, deputy director of the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services; Andy Brown, commissioner for Behavioral Health Services at KDADS; Bobby Eklofe, president KVC Hospitals; and K.C. Johnson, president of HealthSource, Thursday in Hays.

About 70 audience members joined in the discussion, including members of law enforcement, mental health providers, emergency care and hospital staff, and educators. 

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2706ad8d-164e-43d5-a85c-800af5b93150">RELATED STORY: Patients in crisis wait up to a week for admittance to Larned State Hospital</a>

Citing the need for infection control and difficulty with staffing, Larned State Hospital has not operated at full capacity since 2020. They have 74 beds available at this time. 

Walt Hill, director of High Plains Mental Health Center, said in February the waitlist for the state hospital was up to 35 people and the average wait was 67 hours.

Brunner said the waitlist was down to 19 people for the month of May. 

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d3de94af-2857-447a-955b-b0cacf3adeda">KVC closed its acute care beds in Hays in 2019 but has plans to reopen 14 acute care beds in a new location in January. The facility will also have residential psychiatric care for juveniles.</a>

In addition to taking children from Kansas, KVC is also taking calls from Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado and Oklahoma.

Nationwide crisis for child psychiatric care

Brown said the nation is in crisis in terms of children's psychiatric care. There is more demand for care and children presenting with more severe needs, he said.

The latest state budget included more funding for youth residential treatment facilities to help with staffing issues, Brown said.

Eklofe said KVC may have a licensed capacity, but the actual capacity may vary depending on staffing. Eklofe said KVC lost staff during the pandemic and is trying to recruit them to come back.

He said KVC has seen about a 20 percent turnover rate in the last couple of years and has struggled to fill all of the positions.

It is not just the number of staff needed, it's also the specialty staff that is needed, he said.

Beyond staffing, Eklofe said KVC also looks at the safety of children when deciding how to prioritize admissions. A child who is sitting in an office may take priority over a child that is waiting in a hospital room or emergency department for safety reasons.

Area hospital staff expressed frustration about waits and the screening process for juveniles. One worker said a youth was at her facility for 10 days and had to be screened multiple times because of the long wait.

Brunner said the state hospital draws as many employees it can from Larned and the surrounding area but struggled to find enough qualified employees even before the pandemic.

The hospital is working with contract agencies to bring nurses to the facility.

Brunner said he did not have specific numbers on the number of staffing vacancies at the Larned currently.

"Our primary focus is to keep our staff and our patients safe," he said.

The hospital keeps workers over for extra hours or extra shifts or calls workers back to work to meet the needs of the hospitals.

"It's a constant, dynamic, moving thing every single day," he said.

The severity of the patients' illnesses and their need for one-on-one or two-on-one staffing can also alter the number of staff members needed.

Patients wait in ERs, local hospitals without medication

HealthSource works with most of the state's community mental health centers to do screenings to determine if people need to be admitted to psychiatric hospitals.

Those screenings are done through telemedicine. The average response time for these telemedicine screenings is an hour and 41 minutes. However, people have had to wait as long as seven hours.

It also works with the state to manage the state's mental hospital waiting lists. Twenty-one percent of more than 400 screenings in the High Plains Mental Health catchment area met the criteria for involuntary commitment to a state hospital.

Over the last six months, HealthSource has handled 1,200 calls to its crisis line. The average wait is 17 minutes, but Johnson admitted often waits are longer. Johnson said the agency is constantly working with staffing to cut those wait times.

Fifty-nine percent of their calls were from people who were suicidal. Nineteen percent of the calls were from people experiencing violent thoughts. 

Johnson said the agency works with community providers like High Plains Mental Health to try to keep people out of the hospital when possible. 

HealthSource also administers the State Institue Alternative plan, which pays private hospitals to care for people with acute mental illnesses.

Johnson said HealthSource is looking at investing in a system that would allow law enforcement or hospital officials to see the progress HealthSource is making to place someone.

Audience members, including Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun said there is confusion as to whether all patients admitted to a state hospital needed to be medically cleared.

Braun said he was being told they did, so they were all being taken to HaysMed for that clearance. This is taking time away from ER and hospital staff.

Johnson said not all patients need to be medically cleared.

Some ER physicians are reluctant to prescribe any psychiatric medication to patients who have come in off the street. This results in patients waiting days in a local hospital for admittance to a psychiatric hospital without any treatment.

"It's like having a broken leg and not getting it set," one ER staff member said.

Change in statute considered for out-of-state patients

Thomas County Undersheriff Eric Smith said as a result of Interstate 70 going through his county, law enforcement deals with many individuals who Have mental health issues who are not from the local area and have no plan to stay in Kansas after they are released from the hospital.

He said there is confusion on who should be responsible for those patients.

Brunner said the statute doesn't give officials a clear path for those patients. He said state officials are aware of the problem and hope to propose legislation to deal with the issue.

Officials express concerns about potentially suicidal, violent individuals being released into community

Lt. Tim Greenwood of the Hays Police Department, as well as other members of the audience, said they were concerned about the screening process. He said he felt the screeners were only talking to patients and not to law enforcement officers who may have spent hours with a patient.

He was concerned some patients are being released into the community with safety plans who have been violent or suicidal.

"We don't ever want to do things that would ever put people in danger," Johnson said. "We might have criteria that this person doesn't meet certain expectations, but this is still really scary. What are the things we can do? You can get a second opinion."

Hill said High Plains Mental Health is the only community mental health center in the state that has an automatic secondary review of screenings for inpatient psychiatric admissions. 

Johnson said he will work with his team to ensure law enforcement officers and medical professionals have opportunities to report their observations to screeners.

"It's not about us, it's about patient safety," he said.

Finding secure transportation to get patients from rural hospitals to state psychiatric hospitals has also been a challenge.

Sometimes law enforcement will transport patients. However, that may depend on the willingness of the agency to do so and their available staffing.

Transporting someone with a mental illness handcuffed in the back of a police car may be traumatic for the person with the illness, Hill said.

HaysMed has trained staff to complete these transports. Some suggested expanding such a service to other areas of the state.

Hill said high liability insurance may be a barrier for agencies to provide this type of service.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostLocal officials expressed frustration with issues of lack of communication, lack of transportation and lack of beds that have led to long waiting periods for adults and juveniles needing inpatient psychiatric care in western Kansas.High Plains Mental Health sponsored a meeting with the Scott Brunner, deputy director of the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services; Andy Brown, commissioner for Behavioral Health Services at KDADS; Bobby Eklofe, president KVC Hospitals; and K.C. Johnson, president of HealthSource, Thursday in Hays.About 70 audience members joined in the discussion, including members of law enforcement, mental health providers, emergency care and hospital staff, and educators. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2706ad8d-164e-43d5-a85c-800af5b93150">RELATED STORY: Patients in crisis wait up to a week for admittance to Larned State Hospital</a> Citing the need for infection control and difficulty with staffing, Larned State Hospital has not operated at full capacity since 2020. They have 74 beds available at this time. Walt Hill, director of High Plains Mental Health Center, said in February the waitlist for the state hospital was up to 35 people and the average wait was 67 hours.Brunner said the waitlist was down to 19 people for the month of May. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647894493283.jpeg" alt="The future home of KVC Hospital in Hays. File photo " />
 <figcaption>The future home of KVC Hospital in Hays. File photo </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d3de94af-2857-447a-955b-b0cacf3adeda">KVC closed its acute care beds in Hays in 2019 but has plans to reopen 14 acute care beds in a new location in January. The facility will also have residential psychiatric care for juveniles.</a>In addition to taking children from Kansas, KVC is also taking calls from Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado and Oklahoma.<h2>Nationwide crisis for child psychiatric care</h2>Brown said the nation is in crisis in terms of children's psychiatric care. There is more demand for care and children presenting with more severe needs, he said.The latest state budget included more funding for youth residential treatment facilities to help with staffing issues, Brown said.Eklofe said KVC may have a licensed capacity, but the actual capacity may vary depending on staffing. Eklofe said KVC lost staff during the pandemic and is trying to recruit them to come back.<h2>Hospitals struggle to find staff</h2>He said KVC has seen about a 20 percent turnover rate in the last couple of years and has struggled to fill all of the positions.It is not just the number of staff needed, it's also the specialty staff that is needed, he said.Beyond staffing, Eklofe said KVC also looks at the safety of children when deciding how to prioritize admissions. A child who is sitting in an office may take priority over a child that is waiting in a hospital room or emergency department for safety reasons. Area hospital staff expressed frustration about waits and the screening process for juveniles. One worker said a youth was at her facility for 10 days and had to be screened multiple times because of the long wait. Brunner said the state hospital draws as many employees it can from Larned and the surrounding area but struggled to find enough qualified employees even before the pandemic.The hospital is working with contract agencies to bring nurses to the facility.Brunner said he did not have specific numbers on the number of staffing vacancies at the Larned currently."Our primary focus is to keep our staff and our patients safe," he said.The hospital keeps workers over for extra hours or extra shifts or calls workers back to work to meet the needs of the hospitals. "It's a constant, dynamic, moving thing every single day," he said. The severity of the patients' illnesses and their need for one-on-one or two-on-one staffing can also alter the number of staff members needed.<h2>Patients wait in ERs, local hospitals without medication </h2>HealthSource works with most of the state's community mental health centers to do screenings to determine if people need to be admitted to psychiatric hospitals. Those screenings are done through telemedicine. The average response time for these telemedicine screenings is an hour and 41 minutes. However, people have had to wait as long as seven hours.It also works with the state to manage the state's mental hospital waiting lists. Twenty-one percent of more than 400 screenings in the High Plains Mental Health catchment area met the criteria for involuntary commitment to a state hospital. Over the last six months, HealthSource has handled 1,200 calls to its crisis line. The average wait is 17 minutes, but Johnson admitted often waits are longer. Johnson said the agency is constantly working with staffing to cut those wait times. Fifty-nine percent of their calls were from people who were suicidal. Nineteen percent of the calls were from people experiencing violent thoughts. Johnson said the agency works with community providers like High Plains Mental Health to try to keep people out of the hospital when possible. HealthSource also administers the State Institue Alternative plan, which pays private hospitals to care for people with acute mental illnesses.Johnson said HealthSource is looking at investing in a system that would allow law enforcement or hospital officials to see the progress HealthSource is making to place someone.Audience members, including Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun said there is confusion as to whether all patients admitted to a state hospital needed to be medically cleared.Braun said he was being told they did, so they were all being taken to HaysMed for that clearance. This is taking time away from ER and hospital staff.Johnson said not all patients need to be medically cleared.Some ER physicians are reluctant to prescribe any psychiatric medication to patients who have come in off the street. This results in patients waiting days in a local hospital for admittance to a psychiatric hospital without any treatment."It's like having a broken leg and not getting it set," one ER staff member said.<h2>Change in statute considered for out-of-state patients</h2>Thomas County Undersheriff Eric Smith said as a result of Interstate 70 going through his county, law enforcement deals with many individuals who Have mental health issues who are not from the local area and have no plan to stay in Kansas after they are released from the hospital.He said there is confusion on who should be responsible for those patients.Brunner said the statute doesn't give officials a clear path for those patients. He said state officials are aware of the problem and hope to propose legislation to deal with the issue.<h2>Officials express concerns about potentially suicidal, violent individuals being released into community</h2>Lt. Tim Greenwood of the Hays Police Department, as well as other members of the audience, said they were concerned about the screening process. He said he felt the screeners were only talking to patients and not to law enforcement officers who may have spent hours with a patient.He was concerned some patients are being released into the community with safety plans who have been violent or suicidal."We don't ever want to do things that would ever put people in danger," Johnson said. "We might have criteria that this person doesn't meet certain expectations, but this is still really scary. What are the things we can do? You can get a second opinion."Hill said High Plains Mental Health is the only community mental health center in the state that has an automatic secondary review of screenings for inpatient psychiatric admissions. Johnson said he will work with his team to ensure law enforcement officers and medical professionals have opportunities to report their observations to screeners."It's not about us, it's about patient safety," he said.<h2>Secure transportation</h2>Finding secure transportation to get patients from rural hospitals to state psychiatric hospitals has also been a challenge.Sometimes law enforcement will transport patients. However, that may depend on the willingness of the agency to do so and their available staffing.Transporting someone with a mental illness handcuffed in the back of a police car may be traumatic for the person with the illness, Hill said. HaysMed has trained staff to complete these transports. Some suggested expanding such a service to other areas of the state.Hill said high liability insurance may be a barrier for agencies to provide this type of service.

Mental patients stuck in ERs without treatment; screeners not getting full picture group says

School has ended for the year, and while students move toward long summer days engaged in youthful adventures, those days will not be fun-filled for some.&nbsp;

Instead, many will face hunger as they lose access to breakfast and lunches provided by the district.

And so, to ensure those in need are provided with at least one meal a day, the Hays USD 489 school district will once again run the free summer lunch program. The program runs from May 31 to July 29 at Roosevelt Elementary, 2000 MacArthur, weekdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.&nbsp;

All children under 18 years of age are eligible for the meals.

No information is required, and it is open to all children — even if they do not attend Hays schools.

“We can serve kids driving through on interstate who live in California,” said Jessica Younker, USD 489 Nutrition Services director. “We don’t check IDs. We don’t ask names. We don’t ask how much income. There’s no sign-up. You just show up.

“We know it’s such a hardship to feed the kids, especially well-balanced, healthy meals over the summer when they’re home. So we provide that for the community. And we’re excited to do that.”

After two years of program modifications to accommodate COVID pandemic protocols, this year the program will return to dining-in for the children and their adult guardians.

“It’s been in our community for several years, even before COVID and COVID changed things a little bit. And now we’re transitioning back to the normal operation of the program,” Younker said. “We got a lot of flexibility the last two years, and I know it’s been a huge benefit to a lot more people.”

As the program is government-funded, returning to normal operations was required by the district, she said.

“There are especially specific rules we have to follow, and the children will need to be present to eat,” Younker said.

A takeout option will be available, however.

“They have to come inside to pick it up,” Younker said. “We will have to-go boxes available for them to take it with them if they do not want to eat on-site. ... It’s kind of a meet in the middle.”

But having most of the meals inside allows for fresher food and more options, she said.

“We are able to provide a better quality meal, doing it in person,” Younker said. “They come to get their entrees nice and fresh right out of the hot holding table. And then they get to go through our salad bar, which is going to have a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. And then a variety of sides and everything, and then they get to sit down.

“We’re excited to provide a much better product and a much better service,” she continued, “and just some other kind of some other random things throughout the summer that our staff is excited to do to try to draw more kids in and get them excited about coming to eat a meal and not just picking it up and leaving.”

Guardians can partake with the children for $4 per meal.

“It’s a nice-sized meal, and you get to go through the salad bar and get all the same fresh options as the kids,” Younker said. “Parents can come, or if the kids are old enough to come and be responsible, we hope they walk and ride their bikes and come eat.”

For more information about the USD 489 summer lunch program, including menus, visit the USD 489 website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://usd489nutritionservices.com/">USD489.com.</a>

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653680513407.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostSchool has ended for the year, and while students move toward long summer days engaged in youthful adventures, those days will not be fun-filled for some.&nbsp;Instead, many will face hunger as they lose access to breakfast and lunches provided by the district.And so, to ensure those in need are provided with at least one meal a day, the Hays USD 489 school district will once again run the free summer lunch program. The program runs from May 31 to July 29 at Roosevelt Elementary, 2000 MacArthur, weekdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.&nbsp;All children under 18 years of age are eligible for the meals.No information is required, and it is open to all children — even if they do not attend Hays schools.<div><iframe title="USD 489 program helps ensure children have access to food over summer months" 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=3d7bw-1237e3f-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 can serve kids driving through on interstate who live in California,” said Jessica Younker, USD 489 Nutrition Services director. “We don’t check IDs. We don’t ask names. We don’t ask how much income. There’s no sign-up. You just show up.“We know it’s such a hardship to feed the kids, especially well-balanced, healthy meals over the summer when they’re home. So we provide that for the community. And we’re excited to do that.”After two years of program modifications to accommodate COVID pandemic protocols, this year the program will return to dining-in for the children and their adult guardians.“It’s been in our community for several years, even before COVID and COVID changed things a little bit. And now we’re transitioning back to the normal operation of the program,” Younker said. “We got a lot of flexibility the last two years, and I know it’s been a huge benefit to a lot more people.”As the program is government-funded, returning to normal operations was required by the district, she said.“There are especially specific rules we have to follow, and the children will need to be present to eat,” Younker said.A takeout option will be available, however.“They have to come inside to pick it up,” Younker said. “We will have to-go boxes available for them to take it with them if they do not want to eat on-site. ... It’s kind of a meet in the middle.”But having most of the meals inside allows for fresher food and more options, she said.“We are able to provide a better quality meal, doing it in person,” Younker said. “They come to get their entrees nice and fresh right out of the hot holding table. And then they get to go through our salad bar, which is going to have a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. And then a variety of sides and everything, and then they get to sit down.“We’re excited to provide a much better product and a much better service,” she continued, “and just some other kind of some other random things throughout the summer that our staff is excited to do to try to draw more kids in and get them excited about coming to eat a meal and not just picking it up and leaving.”Guardians can partake with the children for $4 per meal.“It’s a nice-sized meal, and you get to go through the salad bar and get all the same fresh options as the kids,” Younker said. “Parents can come, or if the kids are old enough to come and be responsible, we hope they walk and ride their bikes and come eat.”For more information about the USD 489 summer lunch program, including menus, visit the USD 489 website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://usd489nutritionservices.com/">USD489.com.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619205387108.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

🎙USD 489 program helps ensure children have access to food over summer months

Beginning Tuesday, the city’s contractor will begin 
reconstructing the north side of 27th Street between Lincoln Drive and 
Fort Street. &nbsp;

During this phase of construction, traffic will be 
switched onto the new pavement along the south side of 27th Street and 
will be one-way eastbound. &nbsp;

This phase of construction is expected to take about two months.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653659370791.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning Tuesday, the city’s contractor will begin 
reconstructing the north side of 27th Street between Lincoln Drive and 
Fort Street. &nbsp;During this phase of construction, traffic will be 
switched onto the new pavement along the south side of 27th Street and 
will be one-way eastbound. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1654035174761.jpeg" alt="Traffic was shifted Tuesday afternoon to eastbound only on the south side of 27th Street between Lincoln Drive and Fort Street. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)" />
 <figcaption>Traffic was shifted Tuesday afternoon to eastbound only on the south side of 27th Street between Lincoln Drive and Fort Street. (Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>This phase of construction is expected to take about two months.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Traffic to shift as 27th Street project moves to next phase

<div><iframe width="760px" height="500px" src="https://sway.office.com/s/oEWLE9VGgSCgScgq/embed" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" max-width="100%" sandbox="allow-forms allow-modals allow-orientation-lock allow-popups allow-same-origin allow-scripts" scrolling="no" style="border: none; max-width: 100%; max-height: 100vh" allowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen></iframe></div>By JADA LUCAS

Hays High's JAG-K final newsletter of 2021-22

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653682857767.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast click here.</a>

On June 20, 1872, the Great Seal of the United States was adopted, sporting the bald eagle at its center, and for the past&nbsp;150&nbsp;years the bald eagle has served as the living symbol of freedom, courage, strength, spirit, independence and excellence, all the things America stands for. June 20, was proclaimed nationwide &nbsp;American Eagle Day as a way to celebrate&nbsp;the bald eagle, Americas living symbol of freedom and to bring attention to its dramatic recovery from the brink of extinction. In honor of that, here are some bald eagle facts and trivia.&nbsp;

In the early 1960’s the bald eagle population in the lower 48 states had dropped to less than 500 nesting pairs, and in 1967 they were classified as endangered. In 1995, bald eagles were moved up to a list of threatened species, and&nbsp;today, thanks to conservation efforts&nbsp;there&nbsp;are&nbsp;estimated to be nearly 138,000 bald eagles&nbsp;in those same 48 states.&nbsp;Kansas Dept of Wildlife and Parks, (KDWP) estimates there to be 137 nesting pairs here in Kansas, and&nbsp;several thousand&nbsp;bald eagles spend time in Kansas each winter.&nbsp;The best time to view bald eagles in Kansas is&nbsp;from November through February, and the best viewing is near any of our large lakes and reservoirs and anywhere along the rivers.&nbsp;

Bald eagles often build nests 50 feet or more off the ground. Nests are not particularly pretty, resembling&nbsp;a haphazard pile of sticks. The same pair&nbsp;uses&nbsp;the same nest year after year, making them larger each time, and after several years a bald eagle nest can easily be the size of a small room.&nbsp;The largest eagle nest ever recorded was in Florida and measured 9 ½ feet across, was 20 feet high from top-to-bottom and weighed an estimated 4500 pounds.&nbsp;A female bald eagle lays from 1 to 3&nbsp;pure white&nbsp;eggs once per year in the spring.&nbsp;When I still lived in Ohio there were numerous active eagle nests along Lake Erie, and a game warden friend of mine was in charge of overseeing those nests. He had hours of amazing video of them checking the&nbsp;nests and the chicks in them each spring. They did it by helicopter using 3 people; the pilot, a second person who was lowered from the helicopter down into each nest and a third person as a lookout, constantly watching the sky for the adult eagles to prevent them from flying into the helicopter blades, killing the eagle and crashing the helicopter in the process. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The majority of the bald eagle’s diet is fish and waterfowl, so when things freeze solid in the winter up north, the eagles migrate south to find open water where they can still fish.&nbsp;Even when our&nbsp;Kansas reservoirs freeze over,&nbsp;the rivers feeding each reservoir still offer open water.&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;ice fishermen&nbsp;often leave a few carp or other rough fish on the ice for the eagles.&nbsp;The&nbsp;huge influx of waterfowl through Kansas each winter&nbsp;is also a big draw to eagles.&nbsp;From their vantage point 1,000 or more feet above the&nbsp;ground an&nbsp;eagle’s miraculous eyes can spot prey over a 3 square mile area.&nbsp;

Sadly, it seems&nbsp;American&nbsp;Eagle Day gets very little publicity.&nbsp;At a time such as this, with all the negativity about our country and all the internal division, there would seem to me to be no better time than now to find something to celebrate and bring us together as Americans. So, remember this coming June 20th&nbsp;and take a little time, not only to celebrate the tenacity of our national symbol the bald eagle, but also to remember that we live in what is still the best country in the world.

Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>On June 20, 1872, the Great Seal of the United States was adopted, sporting the bald eagle at its center, and for the past&nbsp;150&nbsp;years the bald eagle has served as the living symbol of freedom, courage, strength, spirit, independence and excellence, all the things America stands for. June 20, was proclaimed nationwide &nbsp;American Eagle Day as a way to celebrate&nbsp;the bald eagle, Americas living symbol of freedom and to bring attention to its dramatic recovery from the brink of extinction. In honor of that, here are some bald eagle facts and trivia.&nbsp;In the early 1960’s the bald eagle population in the lower 48 states had dropped to less than 500 nesting pairs, and in 1967 they were classified as endangered. In 1995, bald eagles were moved up to a list of threatened species, and&nbsp;today, thanks to conservation efforts&nbsp;there&nbsp;are&nbsp;estimated to be nearly 138,000 bald eagles&nbsp;in those same 48 states.&nbsp;Kansas Dept of Wildlife and Parks, (KDWP) estimates there to be 137 nesting pairs here in Kansas, and&nbsp;several thousand&nbsp;bald eagles spend time in Kansas each winter.&nbsp;The best time to view bald eagles in Kansas is&nbsp;from November through February, and the best viewing is near any of our large lakes and reservoirs and anywhere along the rivers.&nbsp;Bald eagles often build nests 50 feet or more off the ground. Nests are not particularly pretty, resembling&nbsp;a haphazard pile of sticks. The same pair&nbsp;uses&nbsp;the same nest year after year, making them larger each time, and after several years a bald eagle nest can easily be the size of a small room.&nbsp;The largest eagle nest ever recorded was in Florida and measured 9 ½ feet across, was 20 feet high from top-to-bottom and weighed an estimated 4500 pounds.&nbsp;A female bald eagle lays from 1 to 3&nbsp;pure white&nbsp;eggs once per year in the spring.&nbsp;When I still lived in Ohio there were numerous active eagle nests along Lake Erie, and a game warden friend of mine was in charge of overseeing those nests. He had hours of amazing video of them checking the&nbsp;nests and the chicks in them each spring. They did it by helicopter using 3 people; the pilot, a second person who was lowered from the helicopter down into each nest and a third person as a lookout, constantly watching the sky for the adult eagles to prevent them from flying into the helicopter blades, killing the eagle and crashing the helicopter in the process. &nbsp;&nbsp;The majority of the bald eagle’s diet is fish and waterfowl, so when things freeze solid in the winter up north, the eagles migrate south to find open water where they can still fish.&nbsp;Even when our&nbsp;Kansas reservoirs freeze over,&nbsp;the rivers feeding each reservoir still offer open water.&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;ice fishermen&nbsp;often leave a few carp or other rough fish on the ice for the eagles.&nbsp;The&nbsp;huge influx of waterfowl through Kansas each winter&nbsp;is also a big draw to eagles.&nbsp;From their vantage point 1,000 or more feet above the&nbsp;ground an&nbsp;eagle’s miraculous eyes can spot prey over a 3 square mile area.&nbsp;Sadly, it seems&nbsp;American&nbsp;Eagle Day gets very little publicity.&nbsp;At a time such as this, with all the negativity about our country and all the internal division, there would seem to me to be no better time than now to find something to celebrate and bring us together as Americans. So, remember this coming June 20th&nbsp;and take a little time, not only to celebrate the tenacity of our national symbol the bald eagle, but also to remember that we live in what is still the best country in the world.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: American Eagle Day

Correction: Monday, May 30, Email address corrected.

Chris Hund is one of the youngest technicians in his profession.

At the beginning of the year, he and his wife bought Hays Organ Service from Steve Demuth, who had owned and operated the business for 48 years.

Demuth said organ technicians are a vanishing breed. Many are aging, have retired or passed away.

As this has happened, Hund's service area has expanded significantly. He services organs across Kansas and much of Nebraska. He and his wife, Laura, recently logged 1,700 miles in just two weeks of work.

When Demuth, 68, started the business, he was mostly working on home organs. Most organists had organs in their homes on which they practiced.

Today Hund's work primarily focuses on digital pianos and church organs, both traditional pipe organs and electronic instruments. Some of the pipe organs are as much as 100 years old.

Hund said maintaining the organs is essential to church culture.

"If you don't have music, you don't have a service, not in the same way," he said.

Hund took an unlikely path into the music world. He has a degree in electrical engineering from Kansas State University and worked for Midwest Energy for a time.

However, he said he was interested in finding another career path that included more flexibility.

Demuth's daughter married Hund's brother and the two happened to discuss Demuth's impending retirement.

Demuth said he wasn't quite ready to retire, but a bout of COVID resulted in the loss of his high-range hearing, which is essential when tuning an organ.

Hund agreed to shadow Demuth on a job to see what the business was all about. That turned into about six months, and on Jan. 1, Hund and his wife officially assumed control over the business. Demuth has remained on with the business as a consultant.

"In this field, you have to have an electronic background, be mechanically capable and you've got to have some music skills," Demuth said. ... "And you have to like to travel because they don't bring the organs to you."

Pipe organs can be unique to the church or building into which they are installed with no manuals or training that can prepare you for that specific instrument.

This is why Demuth's continued assistance has been invaluable, Hund said.

The organ chests control the airflow with a rubber cloth or leather. Those can wear out over about 80 years and result in the instrument needing to be rebuilt, Demuth said.

For most churches, any type of replacement of an organ would be far too cost restrictive. Even the tuning of an organ takes hours of what Demuth explained as stretching and contortion to reach into the tight spaces that hold the pipes.

Tuning can greatly affect the sound of the music. Demuth said masters, such as Bach, composed for organs with different tuning than is generally used today. Modern organs can be adjusted to fit that tuning so the music matches the composer's intent.

Mice often make mischief in organs, especially those in older, rural churches. Demuth was once called to a church to repair an organ at a rural church near Larned. He suspected mice had damaged the organ based on the instrument's symptoms. 

Demuth fixed the organ, but in two weeks, church officials called him complaining about problems with the organ.

He returned to find mice, in that short time, had filled one of the organ's boxes, which was about a cubic foot, with milo. Curiously, one of the church members told Demuth the nearest milo field was three-quarters of a mile away.

Not only is there a dwindling number of organ technicians, but there is also a lack of organists. Demuth said many churches are now sharing organists to keep up with the demand. 

Playing the organ is similar, but yet different and more complex than playing the piano.

Organs have two keyboards plus pedals, whereas a piano only has damper pedals. Organs can have much larger ranges than pianos, and the sheet music is different. 

"There are stops on an organ that are strictly an organ stop," Demuth said. "They are not borrowed from any other type of instrument. A trumpet stop is obviously a trumpet or oboe or anything like that. ... "The pipes are tailored to meet that tonal quality."

Hund said, "I can't think of any other instrument that you can play so many unique sounds all together by the press of a key. It is really a unique instrument, and I would hate to see it go away."

As the Hunds move forward with with the business, Chris said he hopes to work with churches to do preventive maintenance to reduce the number of hours and miles the couple is on the road.

The Hunds work out of a home office. Hays Organ Service can be reached at 785-261-1890 or by email at service@haysorganservice.com. You can also learn more on their website <a href="http://haysorganservice.com">haysorganservice.com</a> or follow them on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysOrganService/">@haysorganservice</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653504985520.jpeg" alt="Chris and Laura Hund are the new owners of Hays Organ Service. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Chris and Laura Hund are the new owners of Hays Organ Service. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>Correction: Monday, May 30, Email address corrected. By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostChris Hund is one of the youngest technicians in his profession.At the beginning of the year, he and his wife bought Hays Organ Service from Steve Demuth, who had owned and operated the business for 48 years.Demuth said organ technicians are a vanishing breed. Many are aging, have retired or passed away.As this has happened, Hund's service area has expanded significantly. He services organs across Kansas and much of Nebraska. He and his wife, Laura, recently logged 1,700 miles in just two weeks of work.When Demuth, 68, started the business, he was mostly working on home organs. Most organists had organs in their homes on which they practiced.Today Hund's work primarily focuses on digital pianos and church organs, both traditional pipe organs and electronic instruments. Some of the pipe organs are as much as 100 years old.Hund said maintaining the organs is essential to church culture. "If you don't have music, you don't have a service, not in the same way," he said. Hund took an unlikely path into the music world. He has a degree in electrical engineering from Kansas State University and worked for Midwest Energy for a time.However, he said he was interested in finding another career path that included more flexibility.Demuth's daughter married Hund's brother and the two happened to discuss Demuth's impending retirement.Demuth said he wasn't quite ready to retire, but a bout of COVID resulted in the loss of his high-range hearing, which is essential when tuning an organ.Hund agreed to shadow Demuth on a job to see what the business was all about. That turned into about six months, and on Jan. 1, Hund and his wife officially assumed control over the business. Demuth has remained on with the business as a consultant."In this field, you have to have an electronic background, be mechanically capable and you've got to have some music skills," Demuth said. ... "And you have to like to travel because they don't bring the organs to you." Pipe organs can be unique to the church or building into which they are installed with no manuals or training that can prepare you for that specific instrument.This is why Demuth's continued assistance has been invaluable, Hund said.The organ chests control the airflow with a rubber cloth or leather. Those can wear out over about 80 years and result in the instrument needing to be rebuilt, Demuth said.For most churches, any type of replacement of an organ would be far too cost restrictive. Even the tuning of an organ takes hours of what Demuth explained as stretching and contortion to reach into the tight spaces that hold the pipes.Tuning can greatly affect the sound of the music. Demuth said masters, such as Bach, composed for organs with different tuning than is generally used today. Modern organs can be adjusted to fit that tuning so the music matches the composer's intent. Mice often make mischief in organs, especially those in older, rural churches. Demuth was once called to a church to repair an organ at a rural church near Larned. He suspected mice had damaged the organ based on the instrument's symptoms. Demuth fixed the organ, but in two weeks, church officials called him complaining about problems with the organ.He returned to find mice, in that short time, had filled one of the organ's boxes, which was about a cubic foot, with milo. Curiously, one of the church members told Demuth the nearest milo field was three-quarters of a mile away.Not only is there a dwindling number of organ technicians, but there is also a lack of organists. Demuth said many churches are now sharing organists to keep up with the demand. Playing the organ is similar, but yet different and more complex than playing the piano.Organs have two keyboards plus pedals, whereas a piano only has damper pedals. Organs can have much larger ranges than pianos, and the sheet music is different. "There are stops on an organ that are strictly an organ stop," Demuth said. "They are not borrowed from any other type of instrument. A trumpet stop is obviously a trumpet or oboe or anything like that. ... "The pipes are tailored to meet that tonal quality."Hund said, "I can't think of any other instrument that you can play so many unique sounds all together by the press of a key. It is really a unique instrument, and I would hate to see it go away." As the Hunds move forward with with the business, Chris said he hopes to work with churches to do preventive maintenance to reduce the number of hours and miles the couple is on the road.The Hunds work out of a home office. Hays Organ Service can be reached at 785-261-1890 or by email at service@haysorganservice.com. You can also learn more on their website <a href="http://haysorganservice.com">haysorganservice.com</a> or follow them on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysOrganService/">@haysorganservice</a>.

48-year veteran technician hands reins of organ business to Hays couple

BATON ROUGE, La. — The following people recently were initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines.

• Erin Hernandez of Hays at Fort Hays State University • Abby Kennemer of Hays at Fort Hays State University • Holly Linenberger of Hays at Fort Hays State University • Addison Mininger of Hays (67601) at Fort Hays State University • Mason Runyan of Hays at Fort Hays State University

They are among approximately 25,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann who had a desire to create a different kind of honor society: one that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines. Today, the Society has chapters on more than 325 campuses in the United States, its territories and the Philippines. Its mission is "To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1588607146495.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseBATON ROUGE, La. — The following people recently were initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines.• Erin Hernandez of Hays at Fort Hays State University • Abby Kennemer of Hays at Fort Hays State University • Holly Linenberger of Hays at Fort Hays State University • Addison Mininger of Hays (67601) at Fort Hays State University • Mason Runyan of Hays at Fort Hays State UniversityThey are among approximately 25,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann who had a desire to create a different kind of honor society: one that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines. Today, the Society has chapters on more than 325 campuses in the United States, its territories and the Philippines. Its mission is "To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others."

Five from Fort Hays State inducted into national honor society

KANSAS CITY – Kansas State Parks are partnering with the Kansas Public Library System to&nbsp;provide&nbsp;library patrons with daily vehicle permits&nbsp;available for checkout through December 2022. The daily vehicle permits provide the permit holder with admission to any of Kansas’ 28 state parks absolutely free of charge.

Northwest Kansas participating libraries include:

“We’re committed to making sure Kansas state parks remain accessible to all,” said Kansas State Parks director Linda Lanterman. “Through this collaborative effort with Kansas Public Libraries, we’re able to remove a financial barrier for some who may not have been able to enjoy our natural resources otherwise. I’m excited for the individuals and families who will benefit from this, because they won’t regret making the trip to a Kansas state park.”

Libraries interested in participating should contact program coordinators Riston Landwehr at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:riston.landwehr@ks.gov" target="_blank">riston.landwehr@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or Kati Westerhaus at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kati.westerhaus@ks.gov" target="_blank">kati.westerhaus@ks.gov</a>. Permits are $5 each and are sold in books of 25. Libraries are responsible for paying for the permits in advance; however, any permits leftover after December 2022 may be returned to the State Parks Division of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) for a full refund.

For more information, and to view a complete list of participating Kansas libraries, visit <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Library-Program">ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Library-Program</a>.

To locate at Kansas state park nearest you, visit <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations">ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653558328522.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPKANSAS CITY – Kansas State Parks are partnering with the Kansas Public Library System to&nbsp;provide&nbsp;library patrons with daily vehicle permits&nbsp;available for checkout through December 2022. The daily vehicle permits provide the permit holder with admission to any of Kansas’ 28 state parks absolutely free of charge.Northwest Kansas participating libraries include: <ul>
 <li>Goodland Public Library </li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Grainfield City Library </li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Jewell Public Library </li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Lenora Public Library </li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Oakley Public Library</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Osborne Public Library </li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Plainville Memorial Library </li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Sheridan County Library</li>
 </ul>How It Works<ul>
 <li>Visit a participating library (see list here <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Library-Program">ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Library-Program</a>) and ask to checkout a “Kansas State Parks Vehicle Permit.”</li><li>Each issued vehicle permit is valid for one day only, which will be written on the front of the permit.</li><li>Patrons using a daily vehicle permit must display the permit in their vehicle windshield when entering a Kansas state park.</li><li>Park permits do not need to be returned to participating libraries, they can be simply discarded once used or when the permit expires.</li><li>The check out process may vary at each participating library. It is up to the discretion of each library to determine how many permits may be checked out at any given time; and, how many permits each library patron may check out in total. Contact your local participating library for complete details.</li>
 </ul>“We’re committed to making sure Kansas state parks remain accessible to all,” said Kansas State Parks director Linda Lanterman. “Through this collaborative effort with Kansas Public Libraries, we’re able to remove a financial barrier for some who may not have been able to enjoy our natural resources otherwise. I’m excited for the individuals and families who will benefit from this, because they won’t regret making the trip to a Kansas state park.”Libraries interested in participating should contact program coordinators Riston Landwehr at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:riston.landwehr@ks.gov" target="_blank">riston.landwehr@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or Kati Westerhaus at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kati.westerhaus@ks.gov" target="_blank">kati.westerhaus@ks.gov</a>. Permits are $5 each and are sold in books of 25. Libraries are responsible for paying for the permits in advance; however, any permits leftover after December 2022 may be returned to the State Parks Division of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) for a full refund.For more information, and to view a complete list of participating Kansas libraries, visit <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Library-Program">ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Library-Program</a>.To locate at Kansas state park nearest you, visit <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations">ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations</a>.

NW Kan. library partnerships offer free state park passes

TOPEKA — One of the most unique small towns anywhere is the grassroots art mecca of Lucas (pop. 370). The north central Kansas community is a living art gallery with attractions including&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRm0paqpT4GU99KN8I6UThOIH5WvbRnqLHbqZAO_dA0RT8AWNql3F0Un7FvtyMDPjgf48Tc2fY7kpWB0gWQOx8DxbcjFQlcrKzM&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">S.P. Dinsmoor’s Garden of Eden,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRm7FiSOviXaRkvrLqK0TonbzqQBP2rlpwPPE3B1srWcZhOYzZOqd-fWG_1cDERWlJ3_Gjlaco-11jHj4qknbCsAeMYQxX9sJb0&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">World's Largest Collection of the World's Smallest Versions of the World's Largest Things,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRm2WYqlY5pJM9_63gAqtVTS11qv7LIs_mpshX2MwhD9M6-YS2Ck4O9iBYSgDveW1dlt9zRdWqj5MvUsic8j_ckRh3BeWkSW0X0hR7suqwRViDOSHwKPOvXReByvIXQQZfflgd8-u0_VKRWrcP0NuXroGXCtH6cLqpcDsLFtvNxoUc=&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">Florence Deeble’s Rock Garden and Garden of Isis,</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRmtgcXHztPslCnPgof1u_r0SpeXeyZES2rMkzxhry3WWmCChJPCore0GBbJJ7xV27i4fyprC9b_ndlv7r6VEnJc_z30j2Vb0GWDLQiabNuGuE=&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">Bowl Plaza.</a>&nbsp;Since 1995, the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRm0lnNt5FDOMCvaymFizXQ3vhc2v8anaD5zJb_GCod2uOjjv4v1WWdlIAEQAHAoW5DtsFJRlVx8ebyS8m0G7Oi_A==&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">Grassroots Art Center</a>&nbsp;has worked to document, exhibit, collect, and preserve the work of unconventional artists in Kansas and the Midwest.

With the support of an Humanities Kansas&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiLzEU0jpNuECw75fK7UP62QnX4juEpFZ9M1l_C0m-zuxl3rc3mEzqPuUrtIw3ALfv-r0OFxVZYQI4Qt42fB_9jwxJRpUyU9y9LcpXYTCJcBGVATRqaRisuBG3UBBh34Ruk-8K56oGahW--R8uwCBibR-_da0-lI-TeffoF16D1Yk&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">HK Culture Preservation Grant</a>, the Grassroots Art Center is now documenting through film the stories of seven living grassroots Kansas artists. The video project aims to explore what it means to be a grassroots artist living and working in Kansas and how Kansas influences this work.

Sometimes called outsider or folk artists, the grassroots artists featured in the video oral history project are self-taught artists who create using found objects. These creators often do not self-identify as artists, instead describing the careers they pursued before retiring. A contractor. A teacher. A career military man. Each brings a unique point of view and art process. People like Gary Pendergrass, a Wichita artist who creates steampunk sculptures from found objects; Ron Lessman of Topeka, creator of “Truckhenge,” “Beer Bottle City,” and “Boathenge”; Nick Schmiedeler, a Lawrence artist who creates yard art with his home as the canvas; and Kathy Ruth Neal, a Kansas City wood carver. 

The artists are scattered across the state, but they often share similar characteristics: They are driven to create, they are very often retired, and they are known to ruffle a few feathers with their offbeat art. They are also not self-promoters, preferring instead to spend their time creating and envisioning the next project. A loved one, friend, or neighbor is typically the one who brings the artist to the spotlight. Rosslyn Schultz, founding executive director of the Grassroots Art Center, describes each one as “a character study. Real Kansans, each one of them.” 

Read about each artist on the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRmMzCie4Ug6_B7nfOw0D8P7GgD9Ec2YQRENAQ55b6VUXLtiZZ_1wnJeGzlZ9JNEKkBcyHzV1nhqGTjRxQ2f48UOWmpuetEUxbGGwvPQGAmMPo=&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">Grassroots Art Center’s website.</a>

Artist Mri-Pilar will also be interviewed as part of the oral history project. You can also see her work inside Florence Deeble’s House in Lucas – a mixed media installation called House of Isis covers every surface imaginable – and she designed the mosaics in Bowl Plaza, the one-of-a-kind public restroom in Lucas.

Bob Mix a sculpture artist from Great Bend, is another artist whose story will be preserved in the oral history project. He began creating in 1983 and uses the skills he honed as a conventional metal fabricator to create his whimsical machines and creations. Many can be seen on the grounds of Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo. When asked why so many grassroots artists can be found in Kansas, Schultz mused, “I think it’s the pioneer spirit. It took a tough person to come out to the Kansas prairie. That spirit still exists.” 

For more information about the Grassroots Art Center, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRm0lnNt5FDOMCvaymFizXQ3vhc2v8anaD5zJb_GCod2uOjjv4v1WWdlIAEQAHAoW5DtsFJRlVx8ebyS8m0G7Oi_A==&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">https://www.grassrootsart.net</a>.

HK&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiLzEU0jpNuECw75fK7UP62QnX4juEpFZ9M1l_C0m-zuxl3rc3mEzqPuUrtIw3ALfv-r0OFxVZYQI4Qt42fB_9jwxJRpUyU9y9LcpXYTCJcBGVATRqaRisuBG3UBBh34Ruk-8K56oGahW--R8uwCBibR-_da0-lI-TeffoF16D1Yk&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">Culture Preservation grants</a>&nbsp;are available for projects that preserve and create access to historical or cultural resources that document stories of life in Kansas.

Upcoming grant deadline is September 21, 2022. Contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lvh@humanitieskansas.org" target="_blank">Leslie VonHolten</a>, HK Director of Grants and Outreach, for more information.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653508578851.jpeg" alt="Grassroots Art Center , Lucas&nbsp; (Courtesy photo)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Grassroots Art Center , Lucas&nbsp; (Courtesy photo)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Humanities KansasTOPEKA — One of the most unique small towns anywhere is the grassroots art mecca of Lucas (pop. 370). The north central Kansas community is a living art gallery with attractions including&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRm0paqpT4GU99KN8I6UThOIH5WvbRnqLHbqZAO_dA0RT8AWNql3F0Un7FvtyMDPjgf48Tc2fY7kpWB0gWQOx8DxbcjFQlcrKzM&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">S.P. Dinsmoor’s Garden of Eden,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRm7FiSOviXaRkvrLqK0TonbzqQBP2rlpwPPE3B1srWcZhOYzZOqd-fWG_1cDERWlJ3_Gjlaco-11jHj4qknbCsAeMYQxX9sJb0&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">World's Largest Collection of the World's Smallest Versions of the World's Largest Things,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRm2WYqlY5pJM9_63gAqtVTS11qv7LIs_mpshX2MwhD9M6-YS2Ck4O9iBYSgDveW1dlt9zRdWqj5MvUsic8j_ckRh3BeWkSW0X0hR7suqwRViDOSHwKPOvXReByvIXQQZfflgd8-u0_VKRWrcP0NuXroGXCtH6cLqpcDsLFtvNxoUc=&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">Florence Deeble’s Rock Garden and Garden of Isis,</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRmtgcXHztPslCnPgof1u_r0SpeXeyZES2rMkzxhry3WWmCChJPCore0GBbJJ7xV27i4fyprC9b_ndlv7r6VEnJc_z30j2Vb0GWDLQiabNuGuE=&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">Bowl Plaza.</a>&nbsp;Since 1995, the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRm0lnNt5FDOMCvaymFizXQ3vhc2v8anaD5zJb_GCod2uOjjv4v1WWdlIAEQAHAoW5DtsFJRlVx8ebyS8m0G7Oi_A==&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">Grassroots Art Center</a>&nbsp;has worked to document, exhibit, collect, and preserve the work of unconventional artists in Kansas and the Midwest. With the support of an Humanities Kansas&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiLzEU0jpNuECw75fK7UP62QnX4juEpFZ9M1l_C0m-zuxl3rc3mEzqPuUrtIw3ALfv-r0OFxVZYQI4Qt42fB_9jwxJRpUyU9y9LcpXYTCJcBGVATRqaRisuBG3UBBh34Ruk-8K56oGahW--R8uwCBibR-_da0-lI-TeffoF16D1Yk&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">HK Culture Preservation Grant</a>, the Grassroots Art Center is now documenting through film the stories of seven living grassroots Kansas artists. The video project aims to explore what it means to be a grassroots artist living and working in Kansas and how Kansas influences this work. Sometimes called outsider or folk artists, the grassroots artists featured in the video oral history project are self-taught artists who create using found objects. These creators often do not self-identify as artists, instead describing the careers they pursued before retiring. A contractor. A teacher. A career military man. Each brings a unique point of view and art process. People like Gary Pendergrass, a Wichita artist who creates steampunk sculptures from found objects; Ron Lessman of Topeka, creator of “Truckhenge,” “Beer Bottle City,” and “Boathenge”; Nick Schmiedeler, a Lawrence artist who creates yard art with his home as the canvas; and Kathy Ruth Neal, a Kansas City wood carver. The artists are scattered across the state, but they often share similar characteristics: They are driven to create, they are very often retired, and they are known to ruffle a few feathers with their offbeat art. They are also not self-promoters, preferring instead to spend their time creating and envisioning the next project. A loved one, friend, or neighbor is typically the one who brings the artist to the spotlight. Rosslyn Schultz, founding executive director of the Grassroots Art Center, describes each one as “a character study. Real Kansans, each one of them.” Read about each artist on the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRmMzCie4Ug6_B7nfOw0D8P7GgD9Ec2YQRENAQ55b6VUXLtiZZ_1wnJeGzlZ9JNEKkBcyHzV1nhqGTjRxQ2f48UOWmpuetEUxbGGwvPQGAmMPo=&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">Grassroots Art Center’s website.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653508691583.jpeg" alt="Artist Mri-Pilar in Bowl Plaza, Lucas (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Artist Mri-Pilar in Bowl Plaza, Lucas (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Artist Mri-Pilar will also be interviewed as part of the oral history project. You can also see her work inside Florence Deeble’s House in Lucas – a mixed media installation called House of Isis covers every surface imaginable – and she designed the mosaics in Bowl Plaza, the one-of-a-kind public restroom in Lucas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653509289370.jpeg" alt="Bob Mix (at right) is a&nbsp;sculpture artist from Great Bend. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Bob Mix (at right) is a&nbsp;sculpture artist from Great Bend. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Bob Mix a sculpture artist from Great Bend, is another artist whose story will be preserved in the oral history project. He began creating in 1983 and uses the skills he honed as a conventional metal fabricator to create his whimsical machines and creations. Many can be seen on the grounds of Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo. When asked why so many grassroots artists can be found in Kansas, Schultz mused, “I think it’s the pioneer spirit. It took a tough person to come out to the Kansas prairie. That spirit still exists.” For more information about the Grassroots Art Center, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiMv5ZgqbihRm0lnNt5FDOMCvaymFizXQ3vhc2v8anaD5zJb_GCod2uOjjv4v1WWdlIAEQAHAoW5DtsFJRlVx8ebyS8m0G7Oi_A==&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">https://www.grassrootsart.net</a>. HK&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ntuPoT4kabUpxcixpc_ibsM5w3UYPjUGlpocpcnSOXiVGWc0moBqiLzEU0jpNuECw75fK7UP62QnX4juEpFZ9M1l_C0m-zuxl3rc3mEzqPuUrtIw3ALfv-r0OFxVZYQI4Qt42fB_9jwxJRpUyU9y9LcpXYTCJcBGVATRqaRisuBG3UBBh34Ruk-8K56oGahW--R8uwCBibR-_da0-lI-TeffoF16D1Yk&amp;c=JXnkAw22sBtUx9X7KydT2vIJu8k1zLjIS9Y60xquR-HSJYx1TCYWbA==&amp;ch=MSjKN3aLC-SMLHUsgVc8iAoI1ot9NYW9sU5iOTcSwMt6crRRjqZD9Q==" target="_blank">Culture Preservation grants</a>&nbsp;are available for projects that preserve and create access to historical or cultural resources that document stories of life in Kansas. Upcoming grant deadline is September 21, 2022. Contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lvh@humanitieskansas.org" target="_blank">Leslie VonHolten</a>, HK Director of Grants and Outreach, for more information.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lucas oral history project preserves stories of grassroots artists

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653682827826.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 href="https://porch.com/advice/states-with-most-world-war-ii-veterans">Courtesy Porch.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653603188523.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://porch.com/advice/states-with-most-world-war-ii-veterans">Courtesy Porch.com</a>From 2010 to 2020, the total population of veterans in the U.S. declined by nearly 5 million, from 22.6 million to 17.8 million. The ranks of Vietnam and Korean War veterans each dropped by more than 1.5 million over that span, while the decline for World War II veterans totaled more than 2 million. These declines have reduced the overall population of veterans even as the number of veterans from the Gulf War and Post-9/11 wars has grown.World War II veterans totaled around 500,000 in the U.S. in 2020, and the Census Bureau estimates that by 2030, only 8,000 WWII veterans will remain. These veterans live in every state in the U.S., but large states like California (53,807), Florida (48,220), and New York (31,730) have the largest total counts of WWII veterans. But as a share of the over-85 population, many smaller states have higher proportions of World War II veterans, with as many as 10% of their oldest citizens having served in the war.<figure>
 <img src="https://files.constantcontact.com/984a2faa701/3d25d4d1-07d2-4a3c-83d4-1e46b7d4a7a4.png?rdr=true" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The data used in this analysis is from the U.S. Census Bureau’s&nbsp;2020 American Community Survey. To determine the states with the most World War II veterans, researchers at Porch calculated the World War II veteran share of the 85-and-over population. In the event of a tie, the state with the greater World War II veteran share of the total veteran population was ranked higher.The analysis found that in Kansas, 8.1% of the population aged 85 or older served during World War II.&nbsp;Here is a summary of the data for Kansas:<ul>
 <li>WWII veteran share of the 85+ population:&nbsp;8.1%</li><li>WWII veteran share of the total veteran population:&nbsp;3.1%</li><li>Total WWII veterans:&nbsp;5,374</li><li>Total veteran population:&nbsp;172,750</li>
 </ul>For reference, here are the statistics for the entire United States:<ul>
 <li>WWII veteran share of the 85+ population:&nbsp;7.7%</li><li>WWII veteran share of the total veteran population:&nbsp;2.9%</li><li>Total WWII veterans:&nbsp;512,607</li><li>Total veteran population:&nbsp;17,835,456</li>
 </ul>For more information, a detailed methodology, and complete results, you can find the original report on Porch’s website: <a href="https://porch.com/advice/states-with-most-world-war-ii-veterans">https://porch.com/advice/states-with-most-world-war-ii-veterans</a>