THOMAS COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Saturday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Buick LeSabre driven by Sem A.&nbsp;Flores-Lopez, 23, Rexford, was eastbound on county road Q five miles east of Colby.

The driver lost control of the car. It entered the north ditch, rolled and the driver was ejected. The car came&nbsp;to rest on County Road 25.&nbsp;

EMS transported Flores-Lopez to Citizens Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp;

THOMAS COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Saturday in Thomas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Buick LeSabre driven by Sem A.&nbsp;Flores-Lopez, 23, Rexford, was eastbound on county road Q five miles east of Colby.The driver lost control of the car. It entered the north ditch, rolled and the driver was ejected. The car came&nbsp;to rest on County Road 25.&nbsp;EMS transported Flores-Lopez to Citizens Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp;

NW Kansas man dies after ejected when car rolls

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Glen McNeil shares information about the health benefits of cabbage.

<div><iframe title="Cabbage consumption can beneficial to health" 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=ikf8j-11ae54e-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Glen McNeil shares information about the health benefits of cabbage.

🎙Post Podcast: Cabbage consumption can be beneficial to health

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A new business, B. Yourself Salon, opened in January at 128 W. Ninth in downtown Hays.

Beatrice Adame, 22, owner, is a graduate of Hays Academy of Hair Design and a native of Liberal.

She has worked at several salons since her graduation four years ago, including a large salon in Kansas City and another in Florida.

The salon is booth-rent and is hosting three other beauticians in addition to Adame. This Adame's first time owning her own salon.

"You've got to start somewhere," she said. "That's how I feel about this business. I started from no clientele, knowing no one here in Hays because I'm from Liberal, and now I have my own salon. 

"It's kind of like I'm building myself up."

Adame said she was drawn to the profession because she has always enjoyed doing hair and makeup, talking to people and dressing up. She said she particularly loves being creative with color and working with lashes.

The salon is open Tuesdays through Saturdays by appointment or for walk-ins.

The salon's specialties are hand-tied extensions, color and lashes. Hand-tied extensions are considered healthier for your hair compared to tape-in or glued extensions, Adame said. They also tend to be less messy, she said, than dealing with glue.

Products available at the salon will include Redken, Pulp Riot color, Olaplex and Pureology.

Adame said the downtown location has been a good source of foot traffic.

The building that houses the new salon had been a salon before. Adame said she appreciates being in a older building. She hopes to eventually work to improve the location, including exterior painting, replacing the flooring and new salon stations. She also hopes to add another nail and lash room at the location.

"It's really upcoming. It is new, and it's going to be a long journey until I actually have the salon to where I want it to be," she said. "It's a good start."

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/b.yourselfsalon">You can follow B. Yourself on Facebook.&nbsp; </a>You can also call 620-621-6747 for appointments or for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644957401303.jpeg" alt="Beatrice Adame, the owner of the new B. Yourself Salon in downtown Hays. " />
 <figcaption>Beatrice Adame, the owner of the new B. Yourself Salon in downtown Hays. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post A new business, B. Yourself Salon, opened in January at 128 W. Ninth in downtown Hays.Beatrice Adame, 22, owner, is a graduate of Hays Academy of Hair Design and a native of Liberal.She has worked at several salons since her graduation four years ago, including a large salon in Kansas City and another in Florida.The salon is booth-rent and is hosting three other beauticians in addition to Adame. This Adame's first time owning her own salon."You've got to start somewhere," she said. "That's how I feel about this business. I started from no clientele, knowing no one here in Hays because I'm from Liberal, and now I have my own salon. "It's kind of like I'm building myself up."Adame said she was drawn to the profession because she has always enjoyed doing hair and makeup, talking to people and dressing up. She said she particularly loves being creative with color and working with lashes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644957587224.jpeg" alt="B. Yourself Salon, 128 W. Ninth in downtown Hays." />
 <figcaption>B. Yourself Salon, 128 W. Ninth in downtown Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>The salon is open Tuesdays through Saturdays by appointment or for walk-ins.The salon's specialties are hand-tied extensions, color and lashes. Hand-tied extensions are considered healthier for your hair compared to tape-in or glued extensions, Adame said. They also tend to be less messy, she said, than dealing with glue. Products available at the salon will include Redken, Pulp Riot color, Olaplex and Pureology.Adame said the downtown location has been a good source of foot traffic.The building that houses the new salon had been a salon before. Adame said she appreciates being in a older building. She hopes to eventually work to improve the location, including exterior painting, replacing the flooring and new salon stations. She also hopes to add another nail and lash room at the location."It's really upcoming. It is new, and it's going to be a long journey until I actually have the salon to where I want it to be," she said. "It's a good start." <a href="https://www.facebook.com/b.yourselfsalon">You can follow B. Yourself on Facebook.&nbsp; </a>You can also call 620-621-6747 for appointments or for more information.

B. Yourself at new salon in downtown Hays

Northwest Kansas residents set a new record for the number of Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes they collected in 2021.

That’s the report from Rachel Albin of Hays, northwest Kansas area coordinator. The number of shoeboxes collected in 2021 was 8,921. That surpassed the former record of 8,715 boxes collected in 2019.

Albin said the 2021 total represents 8,809 shoeboxes physically collected during the National Collection Week in November 2021 and 112 shoeboxes built online by northwest Kansas residents.

Operation Christmas Child is a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse, an international relief organization headquartered in Boone, N.C. Each year volunteers pack simple shoeboxes with small toys, school supplies, and personal hygiene items. These boxes are then collected and distributed to children in need around the world.

In many instances, this is the first gift the child has ever received. Inside each shoebox is a pamphlet telling the child about Jesus Christ and how much he loves the child. For many children, this is also the first time they have ever heard about Jesus.

The Lower Midwest Region of the United States, of which Kansas is a part, packed 718,291 boxes in 2021, a 15 percent increase over 2020, Albin said.

Worldwide, more than 10.5 million boxes were packed, with more than 9 million of those from the United States, she said.

Most of the boxes packed in northwest Kansas went to children in Mexico, Albin said. Some also went to Zambia and Native American reservations in New Mexico.

In an email to volunteers in northwest Kansas, Albin said,&nbsp;“(I’m)&nbsp;praising with you what God has done in and through us each to continue sharing God's love and word through these shoebox gifts.”

More information is available <a href="https://www.samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582750752139.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseNorthwest Kansas residents set a new record for the number of Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes they collected in 2021.That’s the report from Rachel Albin of Hays, northwest Kansas area coordinator. The number of shoeboxes collected in 2021 was 8,921. That surpassed the former record of 8,715 boxes collected in 2019.Albin said the 2021 total represents 8,809 shoeboxes physically collected during the National Collection Week in November 2021 and 112 shoeboxes built online by northwest Kansas residents.Operation Christmas Child is a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse, an international relief organization headquartered in Boone, N.C. Each year volunteers pack simple shoeboxes with small toys, school supplies, and personal hygiene items. These boxes are then collected and distributed to children in need around the world.In many instances, this is the first gift the child has ever received. Inside each shoebox is a pamphlet telling the child about Jesus Christ and how much he loves the child. For many children, this is also the first time they have ever heard about Jesus.The Lower Midwest Region of the United States, of which Kansas is a part, packed 718,291 boxes in 2021, a 15 percent increase over 2020, Albin said.Worldwide, more than 10.5 million boxes were packed, with more than 9 million of those from the United States, she said.Most of the boxes packed in northwest Kansas went to children in Mexico, Albin said. Some also went to Zambia and Native American reservations in New Mexico.In an email to volunteers in northwest Kansas, Albin said,&nbsp;“(I’m)&nbsp;praising with you what God has done in and through us each to continue sharing God's love and word through these shoebox gifts.”More information is available <a href="https://www.samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child/">HERE</a>.

Shoebox gifts set record in northwest Kansas

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

“Due to the pandemic, it’s not been possible to travel and see the world. But now, the world has come to us.”&nbsp;

That’s a paraphrase of a sentiment expressed by one Kansan as he described the benefit of improvements made to the bicycle facilities in his community. These improvements have welcomed people from across the globe.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Last week we met Donna Krug, district director and family and consumer sciences agent for the K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District in Barton and Ellis counties. She and her husband John live in Great Bend.&nbsp;

Donna grew up on a farm near the rural community of Washington, population 1,131 people. Now, that’s rural. “We had a tandem (two-seater) bike when I was a kid,” Donna said. After she and John married and had kids of their own, they rode bikes as well.&nbsp;

“We had always been a biking family,” Donna said. In 2000, she and John purchased a tandem bike for themselves. Bicycling became a passion.&nbsp;

“We’ve put 75,000 miles on our tandem bike,” Donna said. “We’ve ridden in every Kansas county and every one of the contiguous 48 states,” she said. While it’s not possible to ride a bike across an ocean, Donna still has hopes of riding a bike in Hawaii.&nbsp;

Donna learned of an organization known as Adventure Cycling that designates a TransAmerica Bike Trail. The route went through Kansas but bypassed Great Bend.&nbsp;&nbsp;When the organization’s representative contacted Barton County’s Central Kansas Partnership looking for someone to do a route study, they were told: “Contact Donna Krug. She bikes all the time.”&nbsp;

Donna and John performed the route study, which involved measuring the width of highway shoulders, evaluating the quality of pavement, and noting support services available. Ultimately, this led to the route being redirected through Great Bend.&nbsp;

The study also identified the need for a bicyclist camping facility. Public camping is prohibited in Great Bend city parks. However, when she and John met the pastor of Central Baptist Church in Great Bend, they found that the church had an unused grassy lot on the property and was willing to let this space serve as a bicycling campground. In fact, it already had a bicycle repair station.&nbsp;

“It had been a (landscape) nursery at one time, so it had some nice trees for shade,” Donna said.&nbsp;

People pitched in to improve the lot. Volunteers installed a kiosk, bike rack, covered shelter, and electrical recharging station and repaired two picnic tables. However, there was no fresh water available at the site.&nbsp;

One day, John and Donna participated in Great Bend’s Friday night community bike ride.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Let’s show everybody the new campground,” Donna said. When they stopped there, it caught the eye of another rider who had recently lost his son to suicide.&nbsp;

“They need water here,” said the rider. “I wonder if we could drill a well?”&nbsp;

Ultimately, the rider was able to use funds from his son’s memorial, his family and the suicide prevention task force to drill a well that provides fresh, potable water for bicyclists at the campground.&nbsp;

It was a fitting, life-giving tribute to the deceased young man. Another young man had been in scouting with the suicide victim. He worked on the campground as his Eagle Scout project.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

A memorial bike ride was held subsequently to honor the memory of this young man.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The organizers ordered 150 orange t-shirts for those who would participate in the ride, and they ran out,” Donna said. In the end, some 200 people participated. The two people asked to lead the ride were John and Donna Krug.&nbsp;

This campground has become a haven for cross-country bicyclists. “Without this even being listed on Google Maps, since August 2021 we ‘ve had people from 17 states, South Korea, England, Germany, Australia, and other countries,” Donna said.&nbsp;

We commend Donna and John Krug and all the volunteers who are making a difference by contributing to this project. As John Krug later reflected: “The pandemic has kept us from traveling the world, but this trail has brought the world to us.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645020900026.png" alt="John and Donna Krug" />
 <figcaption>John and Donna Krug</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;&nbsp;“Due to the pandemic, it’s not been possible to travel and see the world. But now, the world has come to us.”&nbsp;That’s a paraphrase of a sentiment expressed by one Kansan as he described the benefit of improvements made to the bicycle facilities in his community. These improvements have welcomed people from across the globe.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Last week we met Donna Krug, district director and family and consumer sciences agent for the K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District in Barton and Ellis counties. She and her husband John live in Great Bend.&nbsp;Donna grew up on a farm near the rural community of Washington, population 1,131 people. Now, that’s rural. “We had a tandem (two-seater) bike when I was a kid,” Donna said. After she and John married and had kids of their own, they rode bikes as well.&nbsp;“We had always been a biking family,” Donna said. In 2000, she and John purchased a tandem bike for themselves. Bicycling became a passion.&nbsp;“We’ve put 75,000 miles on our tandem bike,” Donna said. “We’ve ridden in every Kansas county and every one of the contiguous 48 states,” she said. While it’s not possible to ride a bike across an ocean, Donna still has hopes of riding a bike in Hawaii.&nbsp;Donna learned of an organization known as Adventure Cycling that designates a TransAmerica Bike Trail. The route went through Kansas but bypassed Great Bend.&nbsp;&nbsp;When the organization’s representative contacted Barton County’s Central Kansas Partnership looking for someone to do a route study, they were told: “Contact Donna Krug. She bikes all the time.”&nbsp;Donna and John performed the route study, which involved measuring the width of highway shoulders, evaluating the quality of pavement, and noting support services available. Ultimately, this led to the route being redirected through Great Bend.&nbsp;The study also identified the need for a bicyclist camping facility. Public camping is prohibited in Great Bend city parks. However, when she and John met the pastor of Central Baptist Church in Great Bend, they found that the church had an unused grassy lot on the property and was willing to let this space serve as a bicycling campground. In fact, it already had a bicycle repair station.&nbsp;“It had been a (landscape) nursery at one time, so it had some nice trees for shade,” Donna said.&nbsp;People pitched in to improve the lot. Volunteers installed a kiosk, bike rack, covered shelter, and electrical recharging station and repaired two picnic tables. However, there was no fresh water available at the site.&nbsp;One day, John and Donna participated in Great Bend’s Friday night community bike ride.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Let’s show everybody the new campground,” Donna said. When they stopped there, it caught the eye of another rider who had recently lost his son to suicide.&nbsp;“They need water here,” said the rider. “I wonder if we could drill a well?”&nbsp;Ultimately, the rider was able to use funds from his son’s memorial, his family and the suicide prevention task force to drill a well that provides fresh, potable water for bicyclists at the campground.&nbsp;It was a fitting, life-giving tribute to the deceased young man. Another young man had been in scouting with the suicide victim. He worked on the campground as his Eagle Scout project.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A memorial bike ride was held subsequently to honor the memory of this young man.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The organizers ordered 150 orange t-shirts for those who would participate in the ride, and they ran out,” Donna said. In the end, some 200 people participated. The two people asked to lead the ride were John and Donna Krug.&nbsp;This campground has become a haven for cross-country bicyclists. “Without this even being listed on Google Maps, since August 2021 we ‘ve had people from 17 states, South Korea, England, Germany, Australia, and other countries,” Donna said.&nbsp;We commend Donna and John Krug and all the volunteers who are making a difference by contributing to this project. As John Krug later reflected: “The pandemic has kept us from traveling the world, but this trail has brought the world to us.”&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Donna Krug, central Kansas bicycle trail 

The Kansas Small Business Development Center at Fort Hays State University is set to conduct a study on the availability and accessibility of retail goods and services in northwest and north central Kansas.&nbsp;

FHSU’s Docking Institute of Public Affairs will administer the survey for the Kansas SBDC. The Docking Institute will provide data collection and analysis on surveys mailed to randomly selected households across northwest and north central Kansas.&nbsp;

SBDC Regional Director Rick Feltenberger believes this survey will highlight shortages and excesses of goods or services in specific regions of Kansas. This data can then help civic and business leaders address critical supply chain issues.

Mailing on the surveys to select recipients will begin on Feb. 18, and all recipients will be asked to return the survey within five days.&nbsp;

Results will be available to the public, and county-level reports will be released online sometime this summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645110223339.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsThe Kansas Small Business Development Center at Fort Hays State University is set to conduct a study on the availability and accessibility of retail goods and services in northwest and north central Kansas.&nbsp;FHSU’s Docking Institute of Public Affairs will administer the survey for the Kansas SBDC. The Docking Institute will provide data collection and analysis on surveys mailed to randomly selected households across northwest and north central Kansas.&nbsp;SBDC Regional Director Rick Feltenberger believes this survey will highlight shortages and excesses of goods or services in specific regions of Kansas. This data can then help civic and business leaders address critical supply chain issues.Mailing on the surveys to select recipients will begin on Feb. 18, and all recipients will be asked to return the survey within five days.&nbsp;Results will be available to the public, and county-level reports will be released online sometime this summer.

FHSU: Study of retail accessibility in rural Kansas gets underway

<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/2022/2/1645214330081.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

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

K-State Research and Extension recognizes the uncertainty that farmers and ranchers are experiencing due to fluctuating cattle and input prices.&nbsp;More than ever, risk management of the operation is critical to long-term sustainability.

Jenny&nbsp;Ifft&nbsp;says successful cow-calf producers are “risk experts.&nbsp;They face multiple sources of risk every day,” said&nbsp;Ifft, an agricultural policy specialist with K-State Research and Extension. “Forage production can vary dramatically based on when or how much it rains. If the market tanks the month before they sell their herd, a producer’s profit could be wiped out.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

LaVell&nbsp;Winsor, a farm analyst with K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics, said some of the topics covered on Feb. 23 include enterprise budgeting, cattle marketing and cow-calf insurance options.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It is important for ranchers to understand their cost structure because there is a wide range of costs of production,” Winsor said. “Marketing is always critical, but with high feed costs (currently), it is especially important for cattle producers to be watching for opportunities to lock in profits.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ifft&nbsp;said cow-calf producers can also be strategic when considering insurance options. She notes that half of Kansas currently is facing moderate drought and feed prices are volatile.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Insurance products are available to help producers manage forage risk and price risk by making payouts when a producer’s local area is abnormally dry, and when cattle prices are lower than expected,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This&nbsp;Cow/calf Risk Management Workshop&nbsp;is being conducted by K-State&nbsp;Agricultural Economists along with 28 county and district Extension offices&nbsp;across the state. It&nbsp;will be&nbsp;held on&nbsp;Wednesday, February 23rd, from 5:30-8:30 pm. The Cottonwood Extension District in both Hays and Great Bend will be hosting this workshop. In Hays it will be held at the Cottonwood District meeting room, 601 Main Street and in Great Bend at their office meeting room, 3007 10th&nbsp;Street.&nbsp;

This session is part of the Risk Management Series for Kansas Women in Agriculture, but can be attended individually. This program is open to anyone interested in attending.

Registration fee $15, payable at the local location that night for&nbsp;printed&nbsp;materials and meal.&nbsp;Registration is requested at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agmanager.info/events">www.agmanager.info/events</a>&nbsp;or give either office a call Hays at 785-628-9430, Great Bend 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645032017709.jpeg" alt="Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictK-State Research and Extension recognizes the uncertainty that farmers and ranchers are experiencing due to fluctuating cattle and input prices.&nbsp;More than ever, risk management of the operation is critical to long-term sustainability.Jenny&nbsp;Ifft&nbsp;says successful cow-calf producers are “risk experts.&nbsp;They face multiple sources of risk every day,” said&nbsp;Ifft, an agricultural policy specialist with K-State Research and Extension. “Forage production can vary dramatically based on when or how much it rains. If the market tanks the month before they sell their herd, a producer’s profit could be wiped out.”&nbsp;&nbsp;LaVell&nbsp;Winsor, a farm analyst with K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics, said some of the topics covered on Feb. 23 include enterprise budgeting, cattle marketing and cow-calf insurance options.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It is important for ranchers to understand their cost structure because there is a wide range of costs of production,” Winsor said. “Marketing is always critical, but with high feed costs (currently), it is especially important for cattle producers to be watching for opportunities to lock in profits.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Ifft&nbsp;said cow-calf producers can also be strategic when considering insurance options. She notes that half of Kansas currently is facing moderate drought and feed prices are volatile.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Insurance products are available to help producers manage forage risk and price risk by making payouts when a producer’s local area is abnormally dry, and when cattle prices are lower than expected,” she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;This&nbsp;Cow/calf Risk Management Workshop&nbsp;is being conducted by K-State&nbsp;Agricultural Economists along with 28 county and district Extension offices&nbsp;across the state. It&nbsp;will be&nbsp;held on&nbsp;Wednesday, February 23rd, from 5:30-8:30 pm. The Cottonwood Extension District in both Hays and Great Bend will be hosting this workshop. In Hays it will be held at the Cottonwood District meeting room, 601 Main Street and in Great Bend at their office meeting room, 3007 10th&nbsp;Street.&nbsp;This session is part of the Risk Management Series for Kansas Women in Agriculture, but can be attended individually. This program is open to anyone interested in attending.Registration fee $15, payable at the local location that night for&nbsp;printed&nbsp;materials and meal.&nbsp;Registration is requested at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agmanager.info/events">www.agmanager.info/events</a>&nbsp;or give either office a call Hays at 785-628-9430, Great Bend 620-793-1910.

Risk management seminar for cow/calf producers scheduled

Check out all the local scores on the Eagle Radio of Hays and Hays Post Friday Night Scoreboard!

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://scoreboard.hayspost.com/">HERE</a>&nbsp;to stay in touch with your favorite teams throughout the 2021-22 seasons.

Check out all the local scores on the Eagle Radio of Hays and Hays Post Friday Night Scoreboard!Click&nbsp;<a href="https://scoreboard.hayspost.com/">HERE</a>&nbsp;to stay in touch with your favorite teams throughout the 2021-22 seasons.

🏀Eagle's Friday Night Scoreboard

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 22 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.

As of Friday morning, there were 18 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, including nine active cases and nine recovering cases.&nbsp;

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

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/75f061b1-d7f1-4dba-ad9d-36bcbccc8ee8">RELATED: Drive-through testing site returns to Big Creek Crossing</a>

The Kansas Hospital Organization reported Wednesday that 54 percent of eligible Ellis County residents (5 and older) are fully vaccinated.&nbsp;

Since reporting began, there have been 7,078 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645215288199.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 22 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.As of Friday morning, there were 18 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed, including nine active cases and nine recovering cases.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/75f061b1-d7f1-4dba-ad9d-36bcbccc8ee8">RELATED: Drive-through testing site returns to Big Creek Crossing</a>The Kansas Hospital Organization reported Wednesday that 54 percent of eligible Ellis County residents (5 and older) are fully vaccinated.&nbsp;Since reporting began, there have been 7,078 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 79 coronavirus-related deaths.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645215685271.png" alt="Statewide COVID-19 curve" />
 <figcaption>Statewide COVID-19 curve</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 22 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Wednesday

The 29th annual Smoky Hill Pheasants Forever Banquet is set for Saturday, Feb. 26, at the Ellis County Fairgrounds, Hays. 

 Social begins at 4 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m., and the auction will be at 7 p.m. 

For tickets, call Shane Wilson at 785-432-1904.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582046678709.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe 29th annual Smoky Hill Pheasants Forever Banquet is set for Saturday, Feb. 26, at the Ellis County Fairgrounds, Hays. Social begins at 4 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m., and the auction will be at 7 p.m. For tickets, call Shane Wilson at 785-432-1904.

Tickets on sale for Smoky Hill Pheasants Forever banquet

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Hays USD 489 Board of Education president Tammy Wellbrock.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: USD 489 BOE president Tammy Wellbrock" 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=ubf2p-11acfd8-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=ffffff&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Hays USD 489 Board of Education president Tammy Wellbrock.

🎤Forward Ever: Hays USD 489 BOE president Tammy Wellbrock 

HaysMed’s Center for Women’s Health joins Kansas Department of Health and Environment in supporting mothers’ mental health through the Kansas Moms in Mind program. Clinics participating in this program have demonstrated commitment to implementing evidence-based practices to improve mental health screening and treatment practices during the perinatal period.

As part of the KMIM project, clinic staff participated in implementation technical assistance and case consultation seminars from a team of perinatal behavioral health experts to support effective screening and treatment practices during pregnancy.&nbsp;

“One of the greatest benefits of the program was the chance to meet one on one with an expert to discuss how things improved for our patients, talk about best practices, and how best to implement them,” said Dr Jenna Sloan, OB/GYN.

Through this project and the work of perinatal stakeholders across the state, providers will be better equipped to identify and treat perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, leading to improved maternal and child health outcomes for Kansas families.&nbsp;

For more information about KMIM, including the Kansas Connecting Communities grant that supports this work, visit&nbsp;<a href="file:///C:/Users/p308c155/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/0D1VTWET/Kansasmch.org/kcc">Kansasmch.org/kcc</a>. Providers in Kansas with a perinatal mental health or substance use treatment questions can call the Kansas Provider Consultation Line for Perinatal Behavioral Health at (833) 765-2004 or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/ProviderConsult">bit.ly/ProviderConsult</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644964157117.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed’s Center for Women’s Health joins Kansas Department of Health and Environment in supporting mothers’ mental health through the Kansas Moms in Mind program. Clinics participating in this program have demonstrated commitment to implementing evidence-based practices to improve mental health screening and treatment practices during the perinatal period.As part of the KMIM project, clinic staff participated in implementation technical assistance and case consultation seminars from a team of perinatal behavioral health experts to support effective screening and treatment practices during pregnancy.&nbsp;“One of the greatest benefits of the program was the chance to meet one on one with an expert to discuss how things improved for our patients, talk about best practices, and how best to implement them,” said Dr Jenna Sloan, OB/GYN.Through this project and the work of perinatal stakeholders across the state, providers will be better equipped to identify and treat perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, leading to improved maternal and child health outcomes for Kansas families.&nbsp;For more information about KMIM, including the Kansas Connecting Communities grant that supports this work, visit&nbsp;<a href="file:///C:/Users/p308c155/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/0D1VTWET/Kansasmch.org/kcc">Kansasmch.org/kcc</a>. Providers in Kansas with a perinatal mental health or substance use treatment questions can call the Kansas Provider Consultation Line for Perinatal Behavioral Health at (833) 765-2004 or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/ProviderConsult">bit.ly/ProviderConsult</a>.

Center for Women’s Health joins statewide mental health initiative

The 2022 Kansas Undergraduate Research Days event is set for March 1-3 in an online format.&nbsp;

Undergraduate students from the four-year public universities in the Kansas Board of Regents — including five from Fort Hays State University — are working on 40 different projects.&nbsp;

The event is free and can be viewed <a href="https://symposium.foragerone.com/kansas-undergraduate-research-days">HERE</a>&nbsp;any time between&nbsp;8 a.m.&nbsp;Tuesday, March 1, and midnight Thursday, March 3.

Dawn Tallchief, the coordinator of this year’s event, said that Undergraduate Research Days showcases undergraduate research in Kansas, providing a forum for undergraduates from across Kansas to present their research to our state legislators and other guests visiting the website. Tallchief is assistant director for Student Programs with the Center for Undergraduate Research at the University of Kansas, this year’s sponsor of the annual research days event.&nbsp;

The Kansas Undergraduate Research Days website will feature posters and accompanying student videos describing the research projects. Visitors will be able to comment and post questions for the student presenters. Students, faculty, KBOR members, state lawmakers, and the public from across the state are invited to participate. The event is intended to raise awareness of research being conducted by undergraduate students and to highlight the transformational educational opportunities available to students at each KBOR university.&nbsp;&nbsp;

FHSU student research participants, in alphabetical order, are:

Titilayo Egbebi will present&nbsp;“Hidden Curriculum of an Outdoor School.”&nbsp;Titilayo is a senior from Bethel Park, Pa., who is majoring in teacher education. Dr. Matthew Clay, assistant professor of teacher education, served as the faculty research sponsor.&nbsp; Jersey Garoutte will present&nbsp;“Fundamental Frequency Resetting in Persons with Parkinson’s Disease.”&nbsp;Jersey is a sophomore from Pueblo, Colo., who is majoring in communication sciences and disorders. Dr. Qiang Li, assistant professor of communication sciences and disorders, served as the faculty research sponsor.&nbsp; Jenna Howard will present&nbsp;“Microbial Isolation and DNA Analysis of Turner Hall Woods’ Natural Hydrocarbon Seep on the Island of Barbados.”&nbsp;Jenna is a senior from WaKeeney who is majoring in geosciences. Dr. Jeanne Sumrall, instructor of geosciences, served as the faculty research sponsor. Michael Shinkle and Micayla Gutierrez, biology, will serve as co-presenters.&nbsp; Haley Pfeifer will present&nbsp;“All-Atom Simulations Uncover Structural and Dynamical Differences Between Full-length Human and Chicken STING in Membrane Systems.”&nbsp;Haley is a sophomore from Great Bend who is a student with the Kansas Academy of Math and Sciences. Dr. Masakatsu Watanabe, assistant professor of chemistry, served as the faculty research sponsor. Lyly Le, chemistry, will serve as a co-presenter.&nbsp;&nbsp; Megan Shepard will present “Rural Disparities in Intimate Partner Violence Services - A Review of Current Literature.” Megan is a junior from Kinsley who is majoring in sociology. Dr. Ziwei Qi, assistant professor of criminal justice, served as the faculty research sponsor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645031880122.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsThe 2022 Kansas Undergraduate Research Days event is set for March 1-3 in an online format.&nbsp;Undergraduate students from the four-year public universities in the Kansas Board of Regents — including five from Fort Hays State University — are working on 40 different projects.&nbsp;The event is free and can be viewed <a href="https://symposium.foragerone.com/kansas-undergraduate-research-days">HERE</a>&nbsp;any time between&nbsp;8 a.m.&nbsp;Tuesday, March 1, and midnight Thursday, March 3.Dawn Tallchief, the coordinator of this year’s event, said that Undergraduate Research Days showcases undergraduate research in Kansas, providing a forum for undergraduates from across Kansas to present their research to our state legislators and other guests visiting the website. Tallchief is assistant director for Student Programs with the Center for Undergraduate Research at the University of Kansas, this year’s sponsor of the annual research days event.&nbsp;The Kansas Undergraduate Research Days website will feature posters and accompanying student videos describing the research projects. Visitors will be able to comment and post questions for the student presenters. Students, faculty, KBOR members, state lawmakers, and the public from across the state are invited to participate. The event is intended to raise awareness of research being conducted by undergraduate students and to highlight the transformational educational opportunities available to students at each KBOR university.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU student research participants, in alphabetical order, are:Titilayo Egbebi will present&nbsp;“Hidden Curriculum of an Outdoor School.”&nbsp;Titilayo is a senior from Bethel Park, Pa., who is majoring in teacher education. Dr. Matthew Clay, assistant professor of teacher education, served as the faculty research sponsor.&nbsp; Jersey Garoutte will present&nbsp;“Fundamental Frequency Resetting in Persons with Parkinson’s Disease.”&nbsp;Jersey is a sophomore from Pueblo, Colo., who is majoring in communication sciences and disorders. Dr. Qiang Li, assistant professor of communication sciences and disorders, served as the faculty research sponsor.&nbsp; Jenna Howard will present&nbsp;“Microbial Isolation and DNA Analysis of Turner Hall Woods’ Natural Hydrocarbon Seep on the Island of Barbados.”&nbsp;Jenna is a senior from WaKeeney who is majoring in geosciences. Dr. Jeanne Sumrall, instructor of geosciences, served as the faculty research sponsor. Michael Shinkle and Micayla Gutierrez, biology, will serve as co-presenters.&nbsp; Haley Pfeifer will present&nbsp;“All-Atom Simulations Uncover Structural and Dynamical Differences Between Full-length Human and Chicken STING in Membrane Systems.”&nbsp;Haley is a sophomore from Great Bend who is a student with the Kansas Academy of Math and Sciences. Dr. Masakatsu Watanabe, assistant professor of chemistry, served as the faculty research sponsor. Lyly Le, chemistry, will serve as a co-presenter.&nbsp;&nbsp; Megan Shepard will present “Rural Disparities in Intimate Partner Violence Services - A Review of Current Literature.” Megan is a junior from Kinsley who is majoring in sociology. Dr. Ziwei Qi, assistant professor of criminal justice, served as the faculty research sponsor.

Kansas Undergraduate Research Days to feature 5 FHSU students

BUNKER HILL — The tradition continues as Smoky Hills PBS will again be covering the 3-2-1A State Wrestling Tournament live the weekend of Feb. 25.&nbsp; For more than 30 years, Smoky Hills PBS has aired this tournament and made available DVDs of the broadcast.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Action will begin at 10 a.m.&nbsp;Friday, Feb. 25, and continues at 9 a.m.&nbsp;Saturday, Feb. 26.&nbsp; A rebroadcast of the championship finals will air at 9 a.m.&nbsp;Sunday, Feb. 27.

DVDs of the televised rounds will be available for purchase online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 1.800.337.4788.

“Covering sporting events like this is one of the many great things we do here at Smoky Hills PBS,” said Betsy Schwien, general manager at Smoky Hills PBS. “Being able to cover the 3-2-1A State Wrestling event for our viewers and capturing these memories for the wrestlers is something we take great pride in.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578663876107.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Hills PBSBUNKER HILL — The tradition continues as Smoky Hills PBS will again be covering the 3-2-1A State Wrestling Tournament live the weekend of Feb. 25.&nbsp; For more than 30 years, Smoky Hills PBS has aired this tournament and made available DVDs of the broadcast.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Action will begin at 10 a.m.&nbsp;Friday, Feb. 25, and continues at 9 a.m.&nbsp;Saturday, Feb. 26.&nbsp; A rebroadcast of the championship finals will air at 9 a.m.&nbsp;Sunday, Feb. 27.DVDs of the televised rounds will be available for purchase online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillspbs.org/">www.SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 1.800.337.4788.“Covering sporting events like this is one of the many great things we do here at Smoky Hills PBS,” said Betsy Schwien, general manager at Smoky Hills PBS. “Being able to cover the 3-2-1A State Wrestling event for our viewers and capturing these memories for the wrestlers is something we take great pride in.”

Smoky Hills PBS Gears Up for 3-2-1A State Wrestling

The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Thu., Feb. 3, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Warrant
Service (Fail to Appear)—1400 block E 29th St, Hays; 1/24 8 AM Abandoned
Vehicle--23rd and Walnut, Hays; 2:16 PM 
Identity Theft—300 block W 19th St, Hays; 2:38 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--4500 block Larned Cir, Hays; 3:36 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--4400 block Larned Cir, Hays; 3:43 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--400 block Autumn Ln, Hays; 3:50 PM 
Animal At Large--5th and Ash, Hays; 4:58 PM 
Drug Offenses—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 5:18 PM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 8:34 PM 
Unwanted Person—400 block E 12th St, Hays; 9:33 PM 
Burglary/business—400 block W 11th St, Hays; 2/1 10:30 PM; 2/3 9:43 PM 
Suicidal Subject—100 block W 4th St, Hays; 9:45 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Fri., Feb. 4, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence--1400 block Fort St, Hays; 2:10:52 AM; 2:30 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 11:45 AM 
Burglary/business—2400 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 2:18 PM 
Animal At Large—2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 2:38 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:40 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—1100 block E 27th St, Hays; 4:27 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—1700 block Marshall Dr, Hays; 5:28 PM 
Theft (general)—400 block Fort St, Hays; 1/31 7:38 PM; 2/4 6:01 PM 
Drug Offenses--1200 block E 13th St, Hays; 6:51 PM; 6:57 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--300 block W 6th St, Hays; 2/4 2:18 AM; 2/5 3 AM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 17 traffic stops Sat., Feb.5, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence--200 block E 24th St, Hays; 12:33 AM; 12:37 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--6th and Elm, Hays; 1:53 AM; 1:54 AM 
Unwanted Person—500 block W 19th St, Hays; 2:13 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 2:31 AM 
Suspicious Activity—300 block E 13th St, Hays; 2/4 11:38 PM; 11:45 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—1500 block Main St, Hays; 2/5 2:25 AM; 2:30 AM 
Disturbance – Noise--500 block W 35th St, Hays; 5:26 AM 
Animal Bite Investigation—1300 block Old 40 Hwy, Ellis County; 1:32 PM 
Animal At Large—1300 block Western Plains Dr, Hays; 1:58 PM 
Traffic/Driving Complaint--300 block Milner St, Hays; 3:07 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 3:33 PM 
Welfare Check—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 4:44 PM 
Found/Lost Property--1200 block Ash St, Hays; 2/3 6 AM; 2/4 10 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--1200 block 250th St, Hays; 10:56 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 20 traffic stops Sun., Feb. 6, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Intoxicated
Subject—400 block W 8th St, Hays; 12:40 AM 
Drug Offenses--3300 block Skyline Dr, Hays; 8:49 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 22nd St, Hays; 10:50 AM 
Animal At Large—Hays; 11:04 AM 
Animal At Large--300 block E 13th St, Hays; 12:48 PM 
Animal At Large—3300 block Country Ln, Hays; 5:06 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—3400 block Summer Ln, Hays; 7:40 PM 
Domestic Disturbance--2400 block Vine St, Hays; 2/4 11:28 PM; 11:29 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 22 traffic stops Mon., Feb. 7, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Disturbance –
Noise—100 block E 17th St, Hays; 1:44 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—1200 block U 183 St, Hays; 8:40 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--200 block W 38th St, Hays; 9:49 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--100 block W 38th St, Hays; 9:59 AM 
Animal At Large—2100 block Commerce Pkwy, Hays; 10:08 AM 
Animal At Large--400 block E 12th St, Hays; 10:12 AM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:30 PM; 1:15 PM 
Credit Card Violations—2400 block General Custer Rd, Hays; 12/13/21; 1/15/21 
Animal At Large--2700 block Vine St, Hays; 3:56 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—3500 block Hillcrest Dr, Hays; 5:12 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—300 block E 6th St, Hays; 7:10 PM 
Miscellaneous Investigation—600 block E 18th St, Hays; 9:04 PM 
Drug Offenses--400 block E 18th St, Hays; 10:10 PM; 10:33 PM 
Found/Lost Property--4300 block Vine St, Hays; 11:44 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 21 traffic stops Tue., Feb. 8, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Miscellaneous
Investigation—1900 block Vine St, Hays; 12:24 AM 
Driving Under the Influence—200 block W 9th St, Hays; 1:03 AM; 1:24 AM 
Unwanted Person—4000 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 2:56 AM 
Animal At Large--Lewis and Dwight Dr, Hays; 8:45 AM 
Trash Dumping—1400 block Oak St, Hays; 5 AM; 8:30 AM 
Found/Lost Property—Hays; 9:35 AM 
Theft (general)--17th and Oak, Hays; 2/7 6 PM; 12 PM 
Animal At Large—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 10:53 AM 
Animal At Large--400 block E 12th St, Hays; 11:21 AM 
Animal At Large--700 block E 6th St, Hay; 1:12 PM 
Theft (general)--600 block E 7th St, Hays; 11/5/21; 12/25/22 
Identity Theft—1700 block Anthony Dr, Hay; 3:35 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--2500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 4:14 PM 
Welfare Check—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hay; 4:23 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 13 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Wed., Feb. 9, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Animal
Cruelty/Neglect—300 block Mopar Dr, Hays; 9:06 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 11th St, Hays; 9:34 AM 
Animal At Large—4500 block Danby Ln, Hays; 9:39 AM 
Animal At Large—400 block E 12th St, Hays; 10:29 AM 
Suspicious Activity—3700 block Thunderbird Dr, Hays; 11:14 AM 
Theft (general)—200 block W 23rd St, Hays; 2/8 5 PM; 2/9 9:30 AM 
Animal At Large—2700 block Hillcrest Dr, Hay; 12:50 PM 
Animal At Large--24th and Walnut, Hay; 1:11 PM 
Animal Call—100 block W 9th St, Hays; 1:49 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 2 PM; 2:07 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1300 block Donald Dr, Hays; 3:58 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1000 block E 27th St, Hays; 4:03 PM 
Suspicious Activity—2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 10:33 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 13 traffic stops Thu., Feb. 3, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.Warrant
Service (Fail to Appear)—1400 block E 29th St, Hays; 1/24 8 AM Abandoned
Vehicle--23rd and Walnut, Hays; 2:16 PM 
Identity Theft—300 block W 19th St, Hays; 2:38 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--4500 block Larned Cir, Hays; 3:36 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--4400 block Larned Cir, Hays; 3:43 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--400 block Autumn Ln, Hays; 3:50 PM 
Animal At Large--5th and Ash, Hays; 4:58 PM 
Drug Offenses—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 5:18 PM 
Harassment, Telephone/FAX—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 8:34 PM 
Unwanted Person—400 block E 12th St, Hays; 9:33 PM 
Burglary/business—400 block W 11th St, Hays; 2/1 10:30 PM; 2/3 9:43 PM 
Suicidal Subject—100 block W 4th St, Hays; 9:45 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Fri., Feb. 4, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence--1400 block Fort St, Hays; 2:10:52 AM; 2:30 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 11:45 AM 
Burglary/business—2400 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 2:18 PM 
Animal At Large—2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 2:38 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:40 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—1100 block E 27th St, Hays; 4:27 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—1700 block Marshall Dr, Hays; 5:28 PM 
Theft (general)—400 block Fort St, Hays; 1/31 7:38 PM; 2/4 6:01 PM 
Drug Offenses--1200 block E 13th St, Hays; 6:51 PM; 6:57 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--300 block W 6th St, Hays; 2/4 2:18 AM; 2/5 3 AMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 17 traffic stops Sat., Feb.5, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence--200 block E 24th St, Hays; 12:33 AM; 12:37 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--6th and Elm, Hays; 1:53 AM; 1:54 AM 
Unwanted Person—500 block W 19th St, Hays; 2:13 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 2:31 AM 
Suspicious Activity—300 block E 13th St, Hays; 2/4 11:38 PM; 11:45 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—1500 block Main St, Hays; 2/5 2:25 AM; 2:30 AM 
Disturbance – Noise--500 block W 35th St, Hays; 5:26 AM 
Animal Bite Investigation—1300 block Old 40 Hwy, Ellis County; 1:32 PM 
Animal At Large—1300 block Western Plains Dr, Hays; 1:58 PM 
Traffic/Driving Complaint--300 block Milner St, Hays; 3:07 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 3:33 PM 
Welfare Check—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 4:44 PM 
Found/Lost Property--1200 block Ash St, Hays; 2/3 6 AM; 2/4 10 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--1200 block 250th St, Hays; 10:56 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 20 traffic stops Sun., Feb. 6, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.Intoxicated
Subject—400 block W 8th St, Hays; 12:40 AM 
Drug Offenses--3300 block Skyline Dr, Hays; 8:49 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 22nd St, Hays; 10:50 AM 
Animal At Large—Hays; 11:04 AM 
Animal At Large--300 block E 13th St, Hays; 12:48 PM 
Animal At Large—3300 block Country Ln, Hays; 5:06 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—3400 block Summer Ln, Hays; 7:40 PM 
Domestic Disturbance--2400 block Vine St, Hays; 2/4 11:28 PM; 11:29 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 5 animal calls and conducted 22 traffic stops Mon., Feb. 7, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.Disturbance –
Noise—100 block E 17th St, Hays; 1:44 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run—1200 block U 183 St, Hays; 8:40 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--200 block W 38th St, Hays; 9:49 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--100 block W 38th St, Hays; 9:59 AM 
Animal At Large—2100 block Commerce Pkwy, Hays; 10:08 AM 
Animal At Large--400 block E 12th St, Hays; 10:12 AM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 12:30 PM; 1:15 PM 
Credit Card Violations—2400 block General Custer Rd, Hays; 12/13/21; 1/15/21 
Animal At Large--2700 block Vine St, Hays; 3:56 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—3500 block Hillcrest Dr, Hays; 5:12 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—300 block E 6th St, Hays; 7:10 PM 
Miscellaneous Investigation—600 block E 18th St, Hays; 9:04 PM 
Drug Offenses--400 block E 18th St, Hays; 10:10 PM; 10:33 PM 
Found/Lost Property--4300 block Vine St, Hays; 11:44 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 21 traffic stops Tue., Feb. 8, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.Miscellaneous
Investigation—1900 block Vine St, Hays; 12:24 AM 
Driving Under the Influence—200 block W 9th St, Hays; 1:03 AM; 1:24 AM 
Unwanted Person—4000 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 2:56 AM 
Animal At Large--Lewis and Dwight Dr, Hays; 8:45 AM 
Trash Dumping—1400 block Oak St, Hays; 5 AM; 8:30 AM 
Found/Lost Property—Hays; 9:35 AM 
Theft (general)--17th and Oak, Hays; 2/7 6 PM; 12 PM 
Animal At Large—300 block W 7th St, Hays; 10:53 AM 
Animal At Large--400 block E 12th St, Hays; 11:21 AM 
Animal At Large--700 block E 6th St, Hay; 1:12 PM 
Theft (general)--600 block E 7th St, Hays; 11/5/21; 12/25/22 
Identity Theft—1700 block Anthony Dr, Hay; 3:35 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--2500 block Marjorie Dr, Hays; 4:14 PM 
Welfare Check—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hay; 4:23 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 13 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Wed., Feb. 9, 2022, according to the HPD Activity Log.Animal
Cruelty/Neglect—300 block Mopar Dr, Hays; 9:06 AM 
Abandoned Vehicle--300 block W 11th St, Hays; 9:34 AM 
Animal At Large—4500 block Danby Ln, Hays; 9:39 AM 
Animal At Large—400 block E 12th St, Hays; 10:29 AM 
Suspicious Activity—3700 block Thunderbird Dr, Hays; 11:14 AM 
Theft (general)—200 block W 23rd St, Hays; 2/8 5 PM; 2/9 9:30 AM 
Animal At Large—2700 block Hillcrest Dr, Hay; 12:50 PM 
Animal At Large--24th and Walnut, Hay; 1:11 PM 
Animal Call—100 block W 9th St, Hays; 1:49 PM 
Domestic Disturbance—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 2 PM; 2:07 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--1300 block Donald Dr, Hays; 3:58 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1000 block E 27th St, Hays; 4:03 PM 
Suspicious Activity—2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 10:33 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Log, Feb. 3-9   

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645125498130.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 downed power line was found to be the cause of a Thursday morning grassfire in Ellis County.

This fire appeared to have been started in a field in the 1200 block of 180th Avenue, according to Lyle Pantle, Ellis County emergency manager and assistant fire chief.

"Fire crews were dispatched at 7:45 and arrived on scene in 12 minutes," Pantle said. 

Approximately 17 responders worked the fire, bringing it under control by 8:38 a.m. he said.

In total, 41 acres were burned in an area contained to the north of Golf Course Road and west of 180th Avenue. 

"Fire crews mopped up hot spots and everyone reported assignment complete at 9:45 a.m.," he said.

Hays PostA downed power line was found to be the cause of a Thursday morning grassfire in Ellis County.This fire appeared to have been started in a field in the 1200 block of 180th Avenue, according to Lyle Pantle, Ellis County emergency manager and assistant fire chief."Fire crews were dispatched at 7:45 and arrived on scene in 12 minutes," Pantle said. Approximately 17 responders worked the fire, bringing it under control by 8:38 a.m. he said.In total, 41 acres were burned in an area contained to the north of Golf Course Road and west of 180th Avenue. "Fire crews mopped up hot spots and everyone reported assignment complete at 9:45 a.m.," he said.

Thursday morning fire burns 41 acres in Ellis Co.

The TMP-Marian Monarchs step out of league play Thursday night for a match up with the Norton Blue Jays. 

The girls game is scheduled to tipoff at 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow from Norton.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/362059">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The TMP-Marian Monarchs step out of league play Thursday night for a match up with the Norton Blue Jays. The girls game is scheduled to tipoff at 6:00 p.m. with the boys to follow from Norton.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/362059">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/362059?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏀🎥 WATCH LIVE Thomas More Prep-Marian at Norton

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Among the <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com">Wild West Festival</a>'s lineup this year is a singer who was just nominated for three Academy of Country Music Awards.

Lainey Wilson along with Kameron Marlowe and Joshua Ray Walker will perform on July 2.

The lineup also includes Sunset Sinners opening for and Lonestar on June 30 and DoC opening for Hairball on July 1.

The festival will run from June 30 to July 3 this year. 

<a href="https://laineywilson.com/">Lainey Wilson</a> is a Nashville newcomer on the Broken Bow Record label. Wilson's single “Things A Man Oughta Know”is getting frequent play after its release in August 2020.

Wilson has been nominated for the 2022 ACM Awards for Song of the Year (“<a href="https://countrynow.com/lainey-wilson-shares-message-of-gratitude-after-earning-first-no-1-single-with-things-a-man-oughta-know/">Things A Man Oughta Know</a>“), as the artist and songwriter, and New Female Artist of the Year. The ACM Awards are March 7.

“Things A Man Oughta Know” was also highlighted in NPR’s Best Music of 2019. Wilson has been named MusicRow’s Next Big Thing 2021. Strings &amp; Spurs included her on their “Country Artists to Watch in 2021” list. The singer/songwriter's music has also been featured on the television show "Yellowstone."

Country singer/songwriter <a href="http://www.joshuaraywalker.com/">Joshua Ray Walker</a> entered the scene in 2019 with his album "Wish You Were Here" in 2019, which was followed by "Glad You Made It" in 2020 and his newest album "See You Next Time."

Some of his singles include "Working Girl," "Canyon" and "Last Call."

Walker recently made his debut on the "The Tonight Show," where he performed “Sexy After Dark.” 

North Carolina country singer/songwriter <a href="https://www.kameronmarlowe.com/">Kameron Marlowe</a> has had 165 million on-demand streams.

A hint of what could have been came in 2018, with a Top 24 appearance on Season 15 of NBC’s The Voice, according to the singer's website. He came&nbsp; on the scene with “Giving You Up" and was signed to Columbia. He released a self-titled EP in 2020.

<a href="https://www.lonestarnow.com/">Lonestar</a> first hit the charts in 1996 with the band's second single,"No News." Other hits followed, including "Come Cryin' to Me" and “Everything’s Changed.”

Their  quadruple-platinum 1999 album "Lonely Grill" featured  four No. 1 hits "Amazed, "What About Now," "Mr. Mom" and “I’m Already There." 

Lonestar won the Academy of Country Music Awards for New Vocal Group in 1996, and Single and Song of the&nbsp;&nbsp;Year in 2000, along with Humanitarian of the Year in 2002. They also won Country Music&nbsp; Association's Vocal 
Group of the Year and International Artist Achievement award in 2001. 

Today the band features Dean Sams (keyboards, acoustic guitar, background vocals), Michael Britt (lead guitarist, background vocals), Keech Rainwater (drums) and Drew Womack (lead vocals, guitar).

The
 <a href="https://www.sunsetsinners.com/">Sunset Sinners</a> describe their genre of music as “Whiskey Barrel Rock,” 
which is a fusion of Southern and '70s rock blended with red dirt country, according to their website. The Sinners feature the vocal stylings of Tony Bowell, rhythm section of Blake Blackim (drums), Brad Johnson (bass) and on guitar Chris Brungardt.

The Sunset Sinners will also be playing a show April 1 at the Fox Theatre in Hays.

<a href="https://hairballonline.com/home">Hairball</a> bills itself as 20 concerts in one night. It has evolved into an explosive national touring act that brings the glory of the '80s with a homage to the biggest arena acts in the world, according to the band's website.

You’ll see all of your favorite legendary hits - from Van Halen, KISS, Motley Crue, Queen, Journey and Aerosmith, the website said.

Vocalists Joe Dandy, Kris Vox, and Dave Moody lead the band. The motor that drives the Hairball dragster consists of HBK on the electric bass, Billy on the drums, and Happy on the lead guitar, according to its website.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/docacousticdj">DoC </a>is a local band. They played under the Hays Downtown Pavilion after the Wild West Festival parade in 2020.

DoC is a cover band that performs hits from all sorts of genres and eras, including both rock and country. The band features Chad Stoecklein, guitarist/lead vocalist and Jeremy Schumacher on drums.

If you want to catch a preview, they will be opening for Sunset Sinners April 1 at the Fox Theatre in Hays.

<a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/tickets/">To learn more about buying tickets for this year's festival, see the festival's website. </a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/wildwestfestival">You can also follow the festival on Facebook.</a>

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAmong the <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com">Wild West Festival</a>'s lineup this year is a singer who was just nominated for three Academy of Country Music Awards.Lainey Wilson along with Kameron Marlowe and Joshua Ray Walker will perform on July 2.The lineup also includes Sunset Sinners opening for and Lonestar on June 30 and DoC opening for Hairball on July 1. The festival will run from June 30 to July 3 this year. <h2>Lainey Wilson</h2><a href="https://laineywilson.com/">Lainey Wilson</a> is a Nashville newcomer on the Broken Bow Record label. Wilson's single “Things A Man Oughta Know”is getting frequent play after its release in August 2020.Wilson has been nominated for the 2022 ACM Awards for Song of the Year (“<a href="https://countrynow.com/lainey-wilson-shares-message-of-gratitude-after-earning-first-no-1-single-with-things-a-man-oughta-know/">Things A Man Oughta Know</a>“), as the artist and songwriter, and New Female Artist of the Year. The ACM Awards are March 7. “Things A Man Oughta Know” was also highlighted in NPR’s Best Music of 2019. Wilson has been named MusicRow’s Next Big Thing 2021. Strings &amp; Spurs included her on their “Country Artists to Watch in 2021” list. The singer/songwriter's music has also been featured on the television show "Yellowstone."<h2>Joshua Ray Walker </h2>Country singer/songwriter <a href="http://www.joshuaraywalker.com/">Joshua Ray Walker</a> entered the scene in 2019 with his album "Wish You Were Here" in 2019, which was followed by "Glad You Made It" in 2020 and his newest album "See You Next Time." Some of his singles include "Working Girl," "Canyon" and "Last Call."Walker recently made his debut on the "The Tonight Show," where he performed “Sexy After Dark.” <h2>Kameron Marlowe</h2>North Carolina country singer/songwriter <a href="https://www.kameronmarlowe.com/">Kameron Marlowe</a> has had 165 million on-demand streams.A hint of what could have been came in 2018, with a Top 24 appearance on Season 15 of NBC’s The Voice, according to the singer's website. He came&nbsp; on the scene with “Giving You Up" and was signed to Columbia. He released a self-titled EP in 2020.<h2>Lonestar</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645038070387.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Lonestar " />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Lonestar </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.lonestarnow.com/">Lonestar</a> first hit the charts in 1996 with the band's second single,"No News." Other hits followed, including "Come Cryin' to Me" and “Everything’s Changed.” Their quadruple-platinum 1999 album "Lonely Grill" featured four No. 1 hits "Amazed, "What About Now," "Mr. Mom" and “I’m Already There." Lonestar won the Academy of Country Music Awards for New Vocal Group in 1996, and Single and Song of the&nbsp;&nbsp;Year in 2000, along with Humanitarian of the Year in 2002. They also won Country Music&nbsp; Association's Vocal 
Group of the Year and International Artist Achievement award in 2001. Today the band features Dean Sams (keyboards, acoustic guitar, background vocals), Michael Britt (lead guitarist, background vocals), Keech Rainwater (drums) and Drew Womack (lead vocals, guitar).<h2>Sunset Sinners</h2>The
 <a href="https://www.sunsetsinners.com/">Sunset Sinners</a> describe their genre of music as “Whiskey Barrel Rock,” 
which is a fusion of Southern and '70s rock blended with red dirt country, according to their website. The Sinners feature the vocal stylings of Tony Bowell, rhythm section of Blake Blackim (drums), Brad Johnson (bass) and on guitar Chris Brungardt.The Sunset Sinners will also be playing a show April 1 at the Fox Theatre in Hays. <h2>Hairball</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645032614130.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Hairball." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Hairball.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hairballonline.com/home">Hairball</a> bills itself as 20 concerts in one night. It has evolved into an explosive national touring act that brings the glory of the '80s with a homage to the biggest arena acts in the world, according to the band's website. You’ll see all of your favorite legendary hits - from Van Halen, KISS, Motley Crue, Queen, Journey and Aerosmith, the website said.Vocalists Joe Dandy, Kris Vox, and Dave Moody lead the band. The motor that drives the Hairball dragster consists of HBK on the electric bass, Billy on the drums, and Happy on the lead guitar, according to its website.<h2>DoC</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645043303717.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of DoC " />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of DoC </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.facebook.com/docacousticdj">DoC </a>is a local band. They played under the Hays Downtown Pavilion after the Wild West Festival parade in 2020. DoC is a cover band that performs hits from all sorts of genres and eras, including both rock and country. The band features Chad Stoecklein, guitarist/lead vocalist and Jeremy Schumacher on drums. If you want to catch a preview, they will be opening for Sunset Sinners April 1 at the Fox Theatre in Hays. <a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/tickets/">To learn more about buying tickets for this year's festival, see the festival's website. </a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/wildwestfestival">You can also follow the festival on Facebook.</a>

Wild West Festival sets concert lineup, including ACM-nominated singer

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It's not warm enough yet for swimming but when the summer temperatures hit, the Hays Aquatic Park will be sporting new diving boards and stands, along with a new color concrete deck on the south end of the pool.

Hays city commissioners will discuss bid awards for the projects at their work session Thursday evening.

* Annexation of property on East 9th Street for the Heart of America Addition which was recently replatted * Updated report of the R9 Ranch conversion to native grass in Edwards County * Annual report from the North Central Kansas Technical College Big Creek Technical Training Center

The complete Feb. 17 agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02172022-1326">here</a>.

The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/289kfVKt5bs"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt's not warm enough yet for swimming but when the summer temperatures hit, the Hays Aquatic Park will be sporting new diving boards and stands, along with a new color concrete deck on the south end of the pool.Hays city commissioners will discuss bid awards for the projects at their work session Thursday evening.Other agenda items include:* Annexation of property on East 9th Street for the Heart of America Addition which was recently replatted * Updated report of the R9 Ranch conversion to native grass in Edwards County * Annual report from the North Central Kansas Technical College Big Creek Technical Training CenterThe complete Feb. 17 agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02172022-1326">here</a>.The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

🎥 New diving boards and stands, concrete deck coming to Hays Aquatic Park

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced more than $1.8 million in grant awards to enhance the responsiveness of victim advocates to victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, rape, and stalking.

“We have a responsibility to do all we can to protect victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“The work our law enforcement officers, victim advocate groups, and the local communities do on this front are important to ensuring justice is served and our communities are safe.”

These grants are provided through the Federal Services, Training, Officers, and Prosecutors Violence Against Women Act Formula Grant Program (S.T.O.P. VAWA). The program supports the efforts of communities to strengthen effective law enforcement and prosecution strategies to combat violent crimes against women, provide victim services in cases involving violent crimes against women, and promote a coordinated community response to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault/rape, and stalking.

Funds from the Federal Sexual Assault Services Program (SASP) assist programs in providing victims of sexual assault with crisis intervention and accompaniment and advocacy assistance through the medical and criminal justice processes. The funds also provide educational information to survivors of sexual assault.

Funds are made available through the U.S. Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.

Northwest Kansas agencies included in the grant announcement are Northwest Kansas Community Corrections, $35,000,&nbsp;Options: Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, $16,575.

Office of the GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced more than $1.8 million in grant awards to enhance the responsiveness of victim advocates to victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, rape, and stalking.“We have a responsibility to do all we can to protect victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“The work our law enforcement officers, victim advocate groups, and the local communities do on this front are important to ensuring justice is served and our communities are safe.”These grants are provided through the Federal Services, Training, Officers, and Prosecutors Violence Against Women Act Formula Grant Program (S.T.O.P. VAWA). The program supports the efforts of communities to strengthen effective law enforcement and prosecution strategies to combat violent crimes against women, provide victim services in cases involving violent crimes against women, and promote a coordinated community response to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault/rape, and stalking.Funds from the Federal Sexual Assault Services Program (SASP) assist programs in providing victims of sexual assault with crisis intervention and accompaniment and advocacy assistance through the medical and criminal justice processes. The funds also provide educational information to survivors of sexual assault.Funds are made available through the U.S. Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women.Northwest Kansas agencies included in the grant announcement are Northwest Kansas Community Corrections, $35,000,&nbsp;Options: Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, $16,575.

NW Kan. agencies awarded grants to help aid sexual assault victims

On Feb. 20 at 2 p.m., Fort
Hays welcomes Ken Spurgeon as its featured speaker and presenter. 

Ken is a
historian, teacher and producer/director associated with Fall River
Productions. The film company focuses on historically-themed projects, and they
are currently working on the highly awaited The Contested Plains.

This docu-drama is based on historic
events in the 19th Century American West and is filming in Kansas and Texas.


Press releaseOn Feb. 20 at 2 p.m., Fort
Hays welcomes Ken Spurgeon as its featured speaker and presenter. Ken is a
historian, teacher and producer/director associated with Fall River
Productions. The film company focuses on historically-themed projects, and they
are currently working on the highly awaited The Contested Plains.This docu-drama is based on historic
events in the 19th Century American West and is filming in Kansas and Texas.
Filming has already taken place in Wichita and Logan counties. The
project is produced by The White Deer Land Museum Foundation, Pampa, Texas and
Fall River Productions, Wichita. The anticipated release date is summer 2022.The Contested Plains recounts the
story of John and Liddia German, who left Georgia with their seven children in
1870, headed for a better home in the West. The family collided with a Cheyenne
raiding party, who were survivors of the Sand Creek Massacre and the attack at
the Washita. This unspeakable tragedy occurred twenty miles east of Fort
Wallace in August of 1874 as the family followed the Smoky Hill Trail
westward to Colorado. An intensive search for the four surviving German girls
grabbed headlines throughout the nation and made household names of Native
leaders and military officers.Written by Ken Spurgeon and Deb
Goodrich, and directed by Ken Spurgeon, the film stars Buck Taylor
(Yellowstone, Gunsmoke), Darby Hinton (Israel Boone, The Daniel Boone Show),
Mary McDonough (Erin Walton, The Waltons) and R.W. Hampton (Western Entertainer).Buck Taylor plays the role of Rufus
Brown, Missouri farmer and uncle to John German, who tries to persuade his
nephew not to venture farther west. Fort Hays would like to add that we have a
connection to the project as one of our board members and volunteers, Marla
Matkin plays Ruth Brown, wife of Rufus Brown.Mr. Spurgeon is a most interesting speaker and is
sure to enlighten his audience not only with the history but the
behind-the-scenes accounts of filming such a historically significant event.
Join us at Fort Hays on February 20th, you don’t want to miss this fascinating
presentation. In the meantime, we encourage you to watch The Contested Plains
Official Teaser on Facebook.