<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/2022/9/1663353310392.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 RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

Today let’s go to the center of the country to visit an innovative family which has centered its business on high quality, locally produced fresh food, including their own specialty pork.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Last week we met Kaden and Emily Roush, the owners of R Family Farms near Lebanon — the geographic center of the contiguous United States. The Roushes operate a niche hog production system involving Berkshire pigs. What is the history of Berkshire hogs?&nbsp;

According to legend, 300 years ago Oliver Cromwell’s army was encamped in winter quarters at Reading, the county seat of the shire of Berks in England. They discovered the hogs there to be larger than any swine of the time and to produce ham and bacon of remarkable quality. That was the beginning of the Berkshire breed.&nbsp;

For years, the royal family kept a large herd of Berkshires at Windsor Castle due to the excellent carcass quality of the hogs. In 1823, the first Berkshires were imported to the U.S. In 1875 the American Berkshire Association was created, becoming the first swine registry to be established in the world.&nbsp;

In modern times, Kaden took note of the carcass quality of these hogs. For example, in a summary of tests conducted over a 20-year span at the National Barrow Show in Austin, Minnesota, Berkshire pigs scored highest of all major American pure breeds in sensory quality.&nbsp;

R Family Farms began raising Berkshire hogs. The business now specializes in private label production and direct online marketing of their Berkshire pork. R Family Farms is a member of the From the Land of Kansas program of the Kansas Department of Agriculture.&nbsp;

During the pandemic, the Roushes were handling more than 1,000 orders per year out of their garage. They were looking for a retail outlet when something happened in their hometown.&nbsp;

A grocery store had been operated in Lebanon for many, many years. In the 1970s, it was purchased by the LaDow family and operated as LaDow’s Market for decades.&nbsp;

As the LaDows were getting older, some people wondered what would happen to the store when the LaDows retired. Then the husband passed away. It appeared the store would close.&nbsp;

“We wanted to keep a store in our community and we were looking for a retail storefront,” Kaden Roush said. In February 2022, they purchased the store, which continues to operate as LaDow’s Market.&nbsp;

With help from K-State’s Rural Grocery Initiative, R Family Farms applied for a grant from the Healthy Food Financing Initiative. The HFFI was authorized by the 2014 farm bill. Its’ mission is to improve access to healthy foods in underserved areas, create and preserve quality jobs and revitalize low income communities.&nbsp;

The program is administered by the Reinvestment Fund on behalf of USDA Rural Development. HFFI provides capacity building and financial resources to eligible healthy food retail projects in underserved areas.&nbsp;

In June 2022, USDA announced the current HFFI grants, including three in Kansas. All three of these received help in developing grant proposals from the Rural Grocery Initiative. The grants went to the Groundwork Northeast Revitalization Group, a neighborhood coalition in Kansas City, Kansas; the Marmaton Market (as we have previously profiled) and R Family Farms.&nbsp;

The R Family Farms grant will help support the overall construction and costs of rehabilitating the LaDow’s Market historic building into a retail space, adding both refrigerated and dry warehousing capacity. This will accommodate R Family Farms’ growing local meat business as well as creating a permanent aggregation location for other food producers.&nbsp;

As the LaDow’s Market logo states: “The freshest groceries come from the Center.”&nbsp;

For more information on the store, search for LaDow’s Market.on Facebook. For more information on the rural grocery initiative, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ruralgrocery.org/">www.ruralgrocery.org</a>.&nbsp;

It’s time to leave this center of creative pork marketing in the center of the contiguous United States. We commend Kaden and Emily Roush of R Family Farms and LaDow’s Market for making a difference with innovative pork production.&nbsp;

Their commitment to quality for their customers is front and center.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663163404589.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;Today let’s go to the center of the country to visit an innovative family which has centered its business on high quality, locally produced fresh food, including their own specialty pork.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Last week we met Kaden and Emily Roush, the owners of R Family Farms near Lebanon — the geographic center of the contiguous United States. The Roushes operate a niche hog production system involving Berkshire pigs. What is the history of Berkshire hogs?&nbsp;According to legend, 300 years ago Oliver Cromwell’s army was encamped in winter quarters at Reading, the county seat of the shire of Berks in England. They discovered the hogs there to be larger than any swine of the time and to produce ham and bacon of remarkable quality. That was the beginning of the Berkshire breed.&nbsp;For years, the royal family kept a large herd of Berkshires at Windsor Castle due to the excellent carcass quality of the hogs. In 1823, the first Berkshires were imported to the U.S. In 1875 the American Berkshire Association was created, becoming the first swine registry to be established in the world.&nbsp;In modern times, Kaden took note of the carcass quality of these hogs. For example, in a summary of tests conducted over a 20-year span at the National Barrow Show in Austin, Minnesota, Berkshire pigs scored highest of all major American pure breeds in sensory quality.&nbsp;R Family Farms began raising Berkshire hogs. The business now specializes in private label production and direct online marketing of their Berkshire pork. R Family Farms is a member of the From the Land of Kansas program of the Kansas Department of Agriculture.&nbsp;During the pandemic, the Roushes were handling more than 1,000 orders per year out of their garage. They were looking for a retail outlet when something happened in their hometown.&nbsp;A grocery store had been operated in Lebanon for many, many years. In the 1970s, it was purchased by the LaDow family and operated as LaDow’s Market for decades.&nbsp;As the LaDows were getting older, some people wondered what would happen to the store when the LaDows retired. Then the husband passed away. It appeared the store would close.&nbsp;“We wanted to keep a store in our community and we were looking for a retail storefront,” Kaden Roush said. In February 2022, they purchased the store, which continues to operate as LaDow’s Market.&nbsp;With help from K-State’s Rural Grocery Initiative, R Family Farms applied for a grant from the Healthy Food Financing Initiative. The HFFI was authorized by the 2014 farm bill. Its’ mission is to improve access to healthy foods in underserved areas, create and preserve quality jobs and revitalize low income communities.&nbsp;The program is administered by the Reinvestment Fund on behalf of USDA Rural Development. HFFI provides capacity building and financial resources to eligible healthy food retail projects in underserved areas.&nbsp;In June 2022, USDA announced the current HFFI grants, including three in Kansas. All three of these received help in developing grant proposals from the Rural Grocery Initiative. The grants went to the Groundwork Northeast Revitalization Group, a neighborhood coalition in Kansas City, Kansas; the Marmaton Market (as we have previously profiled) and R Family Farms.&nbsp;The R Family Farms grant will help support the overall construction and costs of rehabilitating the LaDow’s Market historic building into a retail space, adding both refrigerated and dry warehousing capacity. This will accommodate R Family Farms’ growing local meat business as well as creating a permanent aggregation location for other food producers.&nbsp;As the LaDow’s Market logo states: “The freshest groceries come from the Center.”&nbsp;For more information on the store, search for LaDow’s Market.on Facebook. For more information on the rural grocery initiative, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ruralgrocery.org/">www.ruralgrocery.org</a>.&nbsp;It’s time to leave this center of creative pork marketing in the center of the contiguous United States. We commend Kaden and Emily Roush of R Family Farms and LaDow’s Market for making a difference with innovative pork production.&nbsp;Their commitment to quality for their customers is front and center.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Kaden & Emily Roush, LaDow’s Market 

Students at Hays High have hit the ground running for the academic year principal Shawn Henderson stops by to give us an update on this episode of the Post Podcast.

For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.

Students at Hays High have hit the ground running for the academic year principal Shawn Henderson stops by to give us an update on this episode of the Post Podcast.<div><iframe title="School year well underway at Hays High" 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=wzxpm-12c654e-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>For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.

🎙 Post Podcast: School year well underway at Hays High

The Kansas Shrine Bowl on Friday announced Hays High School head coach Tony Crough will lead the West team in the Shrine Bowl in July 2023.

Crough was an assistant for the West team in 2022. The East head coach will be Clint Rider, head coach of Blue Valley Northwest.

The Shrine Bowl also announced Friday Mammoth, a design-build sports construction partner will be the game’s first-ever presenting sponsor for its 50th&nbsp;game on July 15 at Lewis Field at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

As title sponsor, the event will officially be called the 50th&nbsp;Kansas Shrine Bowl Presented by Mammoth.&nbsp;

The Shrine Bowl and Mammoth unveiled the 50th&nbsp;Game badge at the at the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau  Friday.&nbsp;

"We're thrilled to be celebrating this incredible milestone in Hays. I'm confident Fort Hays State and the community of Hays will be a gracious and supportive host for our 50th event,” said Shrine Bowl Executive Director B.J. Harris.

"We look forward to celebrating with our alumni, Shriners, and anyone who has helped build the Kansas Shrine Bowl into a premiere fundraising event. We're equally excited to see how the momentum from our 2023 game can propel us into the next 50 years."&nbsp;

Since its first event in 1974, the Kansas Shrine Bowl raised more than $3 million for Shriners Children’s. The event is known nationwide as one of the largest Shrine Bowls, with opportunities for high school all-star football players, cheerleaders, and band members. The Shrine Bowl weekend is full of celebratory festivities, including a banquet, golf tournament and clinics.&nbsp;

“We are honored to get behind the mission of the Shrine Bowl, the patients Shriners support, and all the participants and families,” Mammoth CEO Jake Farrant said. “This is a 50-year tradition that keeps getting better. We can’t wait for the game!”&nbsp;

Anyone who is part of the Shrine Bowl’s history as a player, cheerleader, band, ambassador or any kind of involvement is invited to the 50th&nbsp;event.&nbsp;

The timing of Friday’s title sponsorship announcement coincided with the broadcast of Shriners 100th anniversary special airing on ABC affiliates around the country titled “Miracles Magic &amp; Milestones.” A 30-minute TV special hosted by Kristen Bell, the program features patient stories, surprise guests, and a celebration of 100 years of Shriners being the premiere health care organization for children.&nbsp;

Shriners Children's St. Louis is the closest Shriners hospital to Kansas, and one of the destinations for funds raised by the Kansas Shrine Bowl.&nbsp;

“The Kansas Shrine Bowl has been a strong partner of Shriners Children’s St. Louis for five decades. Our team is exceedingly thankful for the support it has offered and the funding it has provided. To witness children helping other children touches our hearts. We will forever cheer on the future (and past) football players, cheerleaders, musicians and performers of the Kansas Shrine Bowl,” said Mark Venable, Shriners Children’s St. Louis administrator.&nbsp;

Sponsorship opportunities for the 50th&nbsp;anniversary game in July are still available. Contact B.J. Harris at 913-602-8656.&nbsp;

"The Kansas Shrine Bowl is humbled by our partnership with Mammoth,” Harris said. “To have the support of such a fast-growing and well-run Kansas company is huge for us, and I can't wait to see how that relationship continues to impact our event and the patients we support."&nbsp;

The Kansas Shrine Bowl is an all-star high school senior, East vs. West, football game put on each year in Kansas, by the Kansas Shrine. It is a 501(c) 3 non-profit charity that produces annual events and related activities, with net proceeds benefiting Shriners Hospitals for Children, now know as Shriners Children’s. The Kansas Shrine Bowl has sent over $3 million to Shriners Children’s.&nbsp;

The game has been played throughout Kansas each summer since 1974. Host cities have included Lawrence, Manhattan, Wichita, Topeka, Hays, Emporia, Pittsburg, Dodge City and Hutchinson. The West football team camp will be held at Bethany College in Lindsborg, and the East will be at Ottawa University in Ottawa. The East Camp directors are Jack Call and Tim Williams. The West Camp directors are Richard Steele and Greg King.

Beginning in 1974, the flagship event has been the East/West All-Star Football Game. As of 2021, the West leads the series with 30 wins, the East has 17 wins, and there has been one tie. Current NFL alumni include Cody Whitehair (Chicago Bears), B.J. Finney (Pittsburg Steelers), and Deante Burton (Dallas Cowboys). Additional notable alumni include former All-Pro Wide Receiver Jordy Nelson, former All-Pro NFL Defensive Back Terrance Newman, NFL Hall of Famer Barry Sanders, former Kansas State and Kansas City Chiefs Linebacker Gary Spani, former Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and Super Bowl Champion Linebacker Mark Simoneau and many others.&nbsp;

The Kansas Shrine Bowl also includes the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, Kansas Shrine Bowl Cheer Camp, Bbanquet, parade, golf tournament and more.&nbsp;

All Shrine Bowl events are produced and presented to benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children. It is a health care system of 22 hospitals dedicated to improving the lives of children by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients' ability to pay.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663346345404.jpeg" alt="Tony Crough will lead the West team for the 2023 Shrine Bowl, which will be on July 15 at Lewis Field at Fort Hays State University. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post " />
 <figcaption>Tony Crough will lead the West team for the 2023 Shrine Bowl, which will be on July 15 at Lewis Field at Fort Hays State University. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Kansas Shrine Bowl on Friday announced Hays High School head coach Tony Crough will lead the West team in the Shrine Bowl in July 2023.Crough was an assistant for the West team in 2022. The East head coach will be Clint Rider, head coach of Blue Valley Northwest. The Shrine Bowl also announced Friday Mammoth, a design-build sports construction partner will be the game’s first-ever presenting sponsor for its 50th&nbsp;game on July 15 at Lewis Field at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;As title sponsor, the event will officially be called the 50th&nbsp;Kansas Shrine Bowl Presented by Mammoth.&nbsp;The Shrine Bowl and Mammoth unveiled the 50th&nbsp;Game badge at the at the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau Friday.&nbsp;"We're thrilled to be celebrating this incredible milestone in Hays. I'm confident Fort Hays State and the community of Hays will be a gracious and supportive host for our 50th event,” said Shrine Bowl Executive Director B.J. Harris."We look forward to celebrating with our alumni, Shriners, and anyone who has helped build the Kansas Shrine Bowl into a premiere fundraising event. We're equally excited to see how the momentum from our 2023 game can propel us into the next 50 years."&nbsp;Since its first event in 1974, the Kansas Shrine Bowl raised more than $3 million for Shriners Children’s. The event is known nationwide as one of the largest Shrine Bowls, with opportunities for high school all-star football players, cheerleaders, and band members. The Shrine Bowl weekend is full of celebratory festivities, including a banquet, golf tournament and clinics.&nbsp;“We are honored to get behind the mission of the Shrine Bowl, the patients Shriners support, and all the participants and families,” Mammoth CEO Jake Farrant said. “This is a 50-year tradition that keeps getting better. We can’t wait for the game!”&nbsp;Anyone who is part of the Shrine Bowl’s history as a player, cheerleader, band, ambassador or any kind of involvement is invited to the 50th&nbsp;event.&nbsp;The timing of Friday’s title sponsorship announcement coincided with the broadcast of Shriners 100th anniversary special airing on ABC affiliates around the country titled “Miracles Magic &amp; Milestones.” A 30-minute TV special hosted by Kristen Bell, the program features patient stories, surprise guests, and a celebration of 100 years of Shriners being the premiere health care organization for children.&nbsp;Shriners Children's St. Louis is the closest Shriners hospital to Kansas, and one of the destinations for funds raised by the Kansas Shrine Bowl.&nbsp;“The Kansas Shrine Bowl has been a strong partner of Shriners Children’s St. Louis for five decades. Our team is exceedingly thankful for the support it has offered and the funding it has provided. To witness children helping other children touches our hearts. We will forever cheer on the future (and past) football players, cheerleaders, musicians and performers of the Kansas Shrine Bowl,” said Mark Venable, Shriners Children’s St. Louis administrator.&nbsp;Sponsorship opportunities for the 50th&nbsp;anniversary game in July are still available. Contact B.J. Harris at 913-602-8656.&nbsp;"The Kansas Shrine Bowl is humbled by our partnership with Mammoth,” Harris said. “To have the support of such a fast-growing and well-run Kansas company is huge for us, and I can't wait to see how that relationship continues to impact our event and the patients we support."&nbsp;The Kansas Shrine Bowl is an all-star high school senior, East vs. West, football game put on each year in Kansas, by the Kansas Shrine. It is a 501(c) 3 non-profit charity that produces annual events and related activities, with net proceeds benefiting Shriners Hospitals for Children, now know as Shriners Children’s. The Kansas Shrine Bowl has sent over $3 million to Shriners Children’s.&nbsp;The game has been played throughout Kansas each summer since 1974. Host cities have included Lawrence, Manhattan, Wichita, Topeka, Hays, Emporia, Pittsburg, Dodge City and Hutchinson. The West football team camp will be held at Bethany College in Lindsborg, and the East will be at Ottawa University in Ottawa. The East Camp directors are Jack Call and Tim Williams. The West Camp directors are Richard Steele and Greg King.Beginning in 1974, the flagship event has been the East/West All-Star Football Game. As of 2021, the West leads the series with 30 wins, the East has 17 wins, and there has been one tie. Current NFL alumni include Cody Whitehair (Chicago Bears), B.J. Finney (Pittsburg Steelers), and Deante Burton (Dallas Cowboys). Additional notable alumni include former All-Pro Wide Receiver Jordy Nelson, former All-Pro NFL Defensive Back Terrance Newman, NFL Hall of Famer Barry Sanders, former Kansas State and Kansas City Chiefs Linebacker Gary Spani, former Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and Super Bowl Champion Linebacker Mark Simoneau and many others.&nbsp;The Kansas Shrine Bowl also includes the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, Kansas Shrine Bowl Cheer Camp, Bbanquet, parade, golf tournament and more.&nbsp;All Shrine Bowl events are produced and presented to benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children. It is a health care system of 22 hospitals dedicated to improving the lives of children by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients' ability to pay.&nbsp;

Kansas Shrine Bowl announces Tony Crough as West head coach for 2023

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

 That's how Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty describes his reaction to the recent decision by the group WaterPACK to appeal a ruling that allows the city to move forward with the R9 Ranch water transfer process from Edwards County to Ellis County.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's their legal right to appeal the ruling. We don't think they'll be successful. We're more perplexed with the tactic and stance they're taking because it could have bigger ramifications to water right owners and ag-industrial consumptive uses of water, conversions of water from irrigation to another use."&nbsp;

WaterPACK, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WaterPACK1/">Water Protection Association of Central Kansas</a>, is a non-profit organization of irrigators in south-central Kansas.&nbsp;

On June 30, Bruce Gatterman, chief district judge of the Edwards County District Court,&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e8b7e2d7-d025-4d84-92c8-17d1a957fa9c">officially denied WaterPACK’s petition&nbsp;</a>for judicial review of the state’s order allowing the conversion of water irrigation rights of the R9 to municipal use for Hays and Russell, which own the ranch.

The two towns had filed an application in 2015 for that change and use of the water.&nbsp;

Judge Gatterman’s decision affirmed the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s&nbsp;<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/03/28/chief-engineer-approves-hays-russell-r9-ranch-water-change-applications/">chief engineer’s 2019 approval of the cities’ change applications</a>.

The approval was&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd42db8897d147ad4bb113a">challenged shortly thereafter by WaterPACK</a>.

Gatterman's ruling "essentially wraps up the first phase of the regulatory process which is converting the water rights from irrigation to municipal," according to Dougherty.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's almost like they're risking doing some longterm damage to the water economy just to try to stop Hays and Russell from following the rules that are in place for everybody."

The cities have voluntarily agreed to use the water resource sustainably. By converting the R9 to municipal use, less water will be used than it was when fully irrigated for farming.&nbsp;

"What they're advocating does not follow rules and regulations," Dougherty contends. "We're gonna focus our efforts on the water transfer process and to prove the statewide benefit of bringing the water to the Hays and Russell area."

This is the first time the Transfer Act will be triggered in Kansas,  a statutory requirement if  more than 2,000 acre-feet of water is moved more than 35 miles.&nbsp;

The state's water transfer process is a long one and is dictated by statute.

City staff is working with the project engineer, Burns &amp; McDonnell, Kansas City, to get a contract proposal for the pipeline and wellfield design.&nbsp;

Work is also underway on a proposal for a land acquisition agent for the pipeline.

"Assuming we get sort of a firm schedule on the transfer proceedings, once those proceedings start that's when it's the intent to get the design contract in front of the governing body.&nbsp;

"I would love to see that happen later this fall, but we can do it early next year if we need to," Dougherty said.

The 2023 city budget includes $9 million dollars in capital improvements for design of the R9 project.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653080015148.png" alt="(City of Hays)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>(City of Hays)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays Post"Perplexed, more than worried." That's how Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty describes his reaction to the recent decision by the group WaterPACK to appeal a ruling that allows the city to move forward with the R9 Ranch water transfer process from Edwards County to Ellis County.&nbsp;&nbsp;"It's their legal right to appeal the ruling. We don't think they'll be successful. We're more perplexed with the tactic and stance they're taking because it could have bigger ramifications to water right owners and ag-industrial consumptive uses of water, conversions of water from irrigation to another use."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663314828298.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WaterPACK, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WaterPACK1/">Water Protection Association of Central Kansas</a>, is a non-profit organization of irrigators in south-central Kansas.&nbsp;On June 30, Bruce Gatterman, chief district judge of the Edwards County District Court,&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e8b7e2d7-d025-4d84-92c8-17d1a957fa9c">officially denied WaterPACK’s petition&nbsp;</a>for judicial review of the state’s order allowing the conversion of water irrigation rights of the R9 to municipal use for Hays and Russell, which own the ranch.The two towns had filed an application in 2015 for that change and use of the water.&nbsp;Judge Gatterman’s decision affirmed the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s&nbsp;<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/03/28/chief-engineer-approves-hays-russell-r9-ranch-water-change-applications/">chief engineer’s 2019 approval of the cities’ change applications</a>.The approval was&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd42db8897d147ad4bb113a">challenged shortly thereafter by WaterPACK</a>.Gatterman's ruling "essentially wraps up the first phase of the regulatory process which is converting the water rights from irrigation to municipal," according to Dougherty.&nbsp;&nbsp;"It's almost like they're risking doing some longterm damage to the water economy just to try to stop Hays and Russell from following the rules that are in place for everybody."<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/nIiXZL1t-P46diVCW.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="R9 Waterpack Appeal" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>The cities have voluntarily agreed to use the water resource sustainably. By converting the R9 to municipal use, less water will be used than it was when fully irrigated for farming.&nbsp;"What they're advocating does not follow rules and regulations," Dougherty contends. "We're gonna focus our efforts on the water transfer process and to prove the statewide benefit of bringing the water to the Hays and Russell area."This is the first time the Transfer Act will be triggered in Kansas, a statutory requirement if more than 2,000 acre-feet of water is moved more than 35 miles.&nbsp;The state's water transfer process is a long one and is dictated by statute.City staff is working with the project engineer, Burns &amp; McDonnell, Kansas City, to get a contract proposal for the pipeline and wellfield design.&nbsp;Work is also underway on a proposal for a land acquisition agent for the pipeline."Assuming we get sort of a firm schedule on the transfer proceedings, once those proceedings start that's when it's the intent to get the design contract in front of the governing body.&nbsp;"I would love to see that happen later this fall, but we can do it early next year if we need to," Dougherty said. The 2023 city budget includes $9 million dollars in capital improvements for design of the R9 project.

🎥 Appeal made in Hays R9 Ranch ruling by WaterPACK; design contract underway 

Homecoming at Fort Hays State University will commence its yearly activities the weekend of Oct. 6 to 8.

What better way to celebrate the season of pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and crisp leaves than with FHSU’s favorite fall activities? The fall semester has commenced, the Tigers have kicked off their football season, and FHSU Homecoming is right around the corner with a packed schedule of events. With some events requiring advanced registration, Tiger fans should start mapping out their weekend plans now. Registration for select Homecoming 2022 events closes on Thurs. Sept. 29.

The Victor E. Apparel &amp; Gift Co., previously known as the Memorial Union Bookstore, will be offering discounts of 20% on all regular-priced items all day Friday and Saturday. Be sure to stop by the Memorial Union or check out their merchandise online at https://victoreapparelandgiftco.myresero.com/ and use the code “Homecoming2022” at checkout to receive your discount.

For a full schedule of events, registration information, and event updates, visit www.fhsuhomecoming.com or call 785-628-4430 for more information!

• Chamber Chat: FHSU Homecoming and Oktoberfest— FHSU Robbins Center, 9 a.m.

• Homecoming Golf Tournament*— Smoky Hill Country Club, Registration 8:30 a.m., Shotgun Start, 9:30 a.m. (Registration full)

• Lunch with Head Football Coach, Chris Brown*— Smoky Hill Country Club, 12 p.m.

• Royalty Meet and Greet— FHSU Quad, 1 to 3 p.m.

• Tiger Bonfire— FHSU Robbins Center, Food vendors, 7:00 p.m. Bonfire and Pep Rally, 7:30 p.m.

• Alumni Award Recipients Meet and Greet— FHSU Forsyth Library, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

• Oktoberfest— Hays Municipal Park, 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Half Century Club Social, Luncheon, and Induction*— FHSU Memorial Union, Ballroom, Social, 11:00 a.m. Luncheon followed by Induction, 12:00 p.m.

• Campus Walking Tour— Gather in FHSU Memorial Union, 1:30 p.m.

• Class of 1962 and 1972 Campus and Hays Bus Tour— Gather in FHSU Memorial Union, 2:00 p.m.

• Alumni and Friends Awards Banquet*— FHSU Memorial Union, Social 6 p.m., Dinner Banquet, 7:00 p.m.

• Breakfast with the President*— FHSU Memorial Union, Ballroom, 8:30 a.m.

• Class of 1962 and 1972 Reunion Breakfast*— FHSU Memorial Union, Second Floor, 8:30 a.m.

• Campus Walking Tour— Gather in FHSU Memorial Union, 9:30 a.m.

• Class of 1962 and 1972 Parade Entries— FHSU Memorial Union, load west side, 10 a.m.

• Parade— The Bricks in Downtown Hays, 11 a.m.

• Oktoberfest— Hays Municipal Park, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Tiger Tailgate*— FHSU Lewis Field Stadium, East Lawn, 5 p.m.

• Football Game*— FHSU Lewis Field Stadium, FHSU vs. Washburn, Pre-Game 6:30 p.m., Kickoff 7 p.m.

* Denotes events that require advanced registration at www.FHSUHomecoming.com

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663342037553.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsHomecoming at Fort Hays State University will commence its yearly activities the weekend of Oct. 6 to 8.What better way to celebrate the season of pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and crisp leaves than with FHSU’s favorite fall activities? The fall semester has commenced, the Tigers have kicked off their football season, and FHSU Homecoming is right around the corner with a packed schedule of events. With some events requiring advanced registration, Tiger fans should start mapping out their weekend plans now. Registration for select Homecoming 2022 events closes on Thurs. Sept. 29.The Victor E. Apparel &amp; Gift Co., previously known as the Memorial Union Bookstore, will be offering discounts of 20% on all regular-priced items all day Friday and Saturday. Be sure to stop by the Memorial Union or check out their merchandise online at https://victoreapparelandgiftco.myresero.com/ and use the code “Homecoming2022” at checkout to receive your discount.For a full schedule of events, registration information, and event updates, visit www.fhsuhomecoming.com or call 785-628-4430 for more information!Friday, Sept. 30• Chamber Chat: FHSU Homecoming and Oktoberfest— FHSU Robbins Center, 9 a.m.Thursday, Oct. 6• Homecoming Golf Tournament*— Smoky Hill Country Club, Registration 8:30 a.m., Shotgun Start, 9:30 a.m. (Registration full)• Lunch with Head Football Coach, Chris Brown*— Smoky Hill Country Club, 12 p.m.• Royalty Meet and Greet— FHSU Quad, 1 to 3 p.m.• Tiger Bonfire— FHSU Robbins Center, Food vendors, 7:00 p.m. Bonfire and Pep Rally, 7:30 p.m.Friday, Oct. 7• Alumni Award Recipients Meet and Greet— FHSU Forsyth Library, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.• Oktoberfest— Hays Municipal Park, 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.• Half Century Club Social, Luncheon, and Induction*— FHSU Memorial Union, Ballroom, Social, 11:00 a.m. Luncheon followed by Induction, 12:00 p.m.• Campus Walking Tour— Gather in FHSU Memorial Union, 1:30 p.m.• Class of 1962 and 1972 Campus and Hays Bus Tour— Gather in FHSU Memorial Union, 2:00 p.m.• Alumni and Friends Awards Banquet*— FHSU Memorial Union, Social 6 p.m., Dinner Banquet, 7:00 p.m.Saturday, Oct. 8• Breakfast with the President*— FHSU Memorial Union, Ballroom, 8:30 a.m.• Class of 1962 and 1972 Reunion Breakfast*— FHSU Memorial Union, Second Floor, 8:30 a.m.• Campus Walking Tour— Gather in FHSU Memorial Union, 9:30 a.m.• Class of 1962 and 1972 Parade Entries— FHSU Memorial Union, load west side, 10 a.m.• Parade— The Bricks in Downtown Hays, 11 a.m.• Oktoberfest— Hays Municipal Park, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.• Tiger Tailgate*— FHSU Lewis Field Stadium, East Lawn, 5 p.m.• Football Game*— FHSU Lewis Field Stadium, FHSU vs. Washburn, Pre-Game 6:30 p.m., Kickoff 7 p.m.* Denotes events that require advanced registration at www.FHSUHomecoming.com

FHSU announces 2022 homecoming events, schedule

UPDATE from the City of Russell: The fire is out and there are no reported injuries.  Emergency personnel continue working on-scene conducting overhaul and mop up.  Please continue to avoid the area until emergency personnel and equipment have left the scene.

RUSSELL - The Russell Fire Department and emergency service personnel have responded to a structure fire in Russell, according to the city's <a href="http://www.russellcity.org/AlertCenter.aspx?AID=147">alert system </a>in a message issued at 9:33 a.m.

Residents are asked to avoid the 400 block of East 1st Street.&nbsp;

Check back with Hays Post and Eagle Radio as more details become available.&nbsp;

Hays PostUPDATE from the City of Russell: The fire is out and there are no reported injuries. Emergency personnel continue working on-scene conducting overhaul and mop up. Please continue to avoid the area until emergency personnel and equipment have left the scene.RUSSELL - The Russell Fire Department and emergency service personnel have responded to a structure fire in Russell, according to the city's <a href="http://www.russellcity.org/AlertCenter.aspx?AID=147">alert system </a>in a message issued at 9:33 a.m.Residents are asked to avoid the 400 block of East 1st Street.&nbsp;Check back with Hays Post and Eagle Radio as more details become available.&nbsp;

UPDATE: No injuries in Russell structure fire

Above average temperatures and below average rainfall has led to worsening drought across the region since June, most pronounced across the southeast quarter of Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663337669671.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>National Weather ServiceAbove average temperatures and below average rainfall has led to worsening drought across the region since June, most pronounced across the southeast quarter of Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663338071381.png" alt="Current drought conditions from graphic at top" />
 <figcaption>Current drought conditions from graphic at top</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663338117708.png" alt="Three-month drought change from graphic at top" />
 <figcaption>Three-month drought change from graphic at top</figcaption>
 </figure>

NWS: Drought continues to worsen

Parched western Kansas got welcome relief Thursday evening with many areas receiving their first recorded rainfall in September.

Reports from the Hays area varied from just less than an inch to 1.4 inches of soaking rain.&nbsp;

The official amount of rain for Hays reported by the K-State Agriculture Research Center south of town was 0.80 inches.

Southern Rooks County reported just over a half an inch of rainfall. While the Russell area received only trace rain, according to CoCoRaHS, there was a report of 0.84 inches of rain in northern Russell County. The Hill City area also reported more than an inch of rain.

Even with Thursday's precipitation, Hays remains more than an inch behind average moisture in September and just less than 7 inches behind normal for the year.

There is a slight chance of additional showers or thunderstorms after midnight Friday before skies clear and the mercury rises. Highs Saturday through Tuesday are expected to be in the mid- to upper-90s, according to the National Weather Service in Dodge City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663333780756.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Parched western Kansas got welcome relief Thursday evening with many areas receiving their first recorded rainfall in September.Reports from the Hays area varied from just less than an inch to 1.4 inches of soaking rain.&nbsp;The official amount of rain for Hays reported by the K-State Agriculture Research Center south of town was 0.80 inches.Southern Rooks County reported just over a half an inch of rainfall. While the Russell area received only trace rain, according to CoCoRaHS, there was a report of 0.84 inches of rain in northern Russell County. The Hill City area also reported more than an inch of rain.Even with Thursday's precipitation, Hays remains more than an inch behind average moisture in September and just less than 7 inches behind normal for the year.There is a slight chance of additional showers or thunderstorms after midnight Friday before skies clear and the mercury rises. Highs Saturday through Tuesday are expected to be in the mid- to upper-90s, according to the National Weather Service in Dodge City.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It will be another hot weekend with well above normal temperatures. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wxtwitter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wxtwitter</a> <a href="https://t.co/uWdXhHRM4i">pic.twitter.com/uWdXhHRM4i</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1570735231740805123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Thursday rain offers welcome relief to parched western Kansas

'The Wallace Project' set to premiere at Kansas City Film Festival


The Provenance Co., Lawrence, on Sept. 24 will premiere a short
documentary about their grassland regeneration project at the Kansas City
Underground Film Festival.


The film, titled "The Wallace Project," is short-listed for audience and jury awards. The
film documents the first year of regenerative agriculture implementation on 2,740
acres of cropland near Wallace in western Kansas.


The Wallace Project was created as part of The Provenance Co.’s mission to share the
effects of land degradation, and the potential for large-scale grassland restoration
through Holistic Management of livestock. The film was produced by Bull Skull
Productions of Lawrence.


To reserve free tickets in our screening block, titled “Melancholy in America,” click <a href="https://kcuff2022.eventive.org/schedule/62eda04c1df9d600784378e8">HERE</a>.

For more information about The Provenance Co., click <a href="https://www.theprovenanceco.com/">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

Cover image courtesy The&nbsp;Provenance Co.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663275296523.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>'The Wallace Project' set to premiere at Kansas City Film Festival
</h2>News releaseThe Provenance Co., Lawrence, on Sept. 24 will premiere a short
documentary about their grassland regeneration project at the Kansas City
Underground Film Festival.
The film, titled "The Wallace Project," is short-listed for audience and jury awards. The
film documents the first year of regenerative agriculture implementation on 2,740
acres of cropland near Wallace in western Kansas.
The Wallace Project was created as part of The Provenance Co.’s mission to share the
effects of land degradation, and the potential for large-scale grassland restoration
through Holistic Management of livestock. The film was produced by Bull Skull
Productions of Lawrence.
Run time for the film is 07:49.&nbsp;To reserve free tickets in our screening block, titled “Melancholy in America,” click <a href="https://kcuff2022.eventive.org/schedule/62eda04c1df9d600784378e8">HERE</a>.For more information about The Provenance Co., click <a href="https://www.theprovenanceco.com/">HERE</a>.&nbsp;Cover image courtesy The&nbsp;Provenance Co.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663275783184.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Grassland restoration in NW Kansas the focus of new documentary

HaysMed offers pre-season concussion exams for area athletes as part of their sports medicine program.&nbsp; The exams are given at the schools covered by the HaysMed athletic trainers and include Ellis, La Crosse, Hays High, Thomas Moore Prep-Marian Junior/Senior High School and Victoria.

Baseline concussion testing is a pre-season exam that assesses an athlete's balance and brain function. This includes learning and memory skills, the ability to pay attention or concentrate, how quickly he or she thinks and solves problems, as well as for the presence of any concussion symptoms.

Concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that may result in a bad headache with altered levels of alertness, or even unconsciousness. A concussion temporarily interferes with the way your brain works. Concussion can affect memory, judgment, reflexes, speech, balance, coordination and even sleep patterns.

According to the Kansas State High School Activities Association Concussion Reporting Summary the year average number of reported concussions was 1,584 from 2018 to 2021.

“After a concussion occurs, it is important to measure how well your brain functions post-injury and compare that to the brain function prior to the injury.”&nbsp; Said Dr. Wally Walstrom, board-certified sports medicine physician at HaysMed. “A valid baseline concussion test is key in a comprehensive approach to concussion management.”

The baseline tests are typically taken in the pre-season.&nbsp; Baseline tests are assessments that measure reaction time, memory capacity, speed of mental processing, concentration, and balance.&nbsp; Results from the baseline tests can be used and compared to a similar exam conducted if an athlete has a suspected concussion.&nbsp; 

“The idea is that if we know how an individual athlete “normally” functions on such a test, after a concussion, the post-concussion scores can be one tool to help determine when they have sufficiently recovered from the concussion to safely return to play,” said Shawn Landers, athletic trainer at HaysMed.

HaysMed uses the C3 Logix concussion baseline testing program.&nbsp; It provides clinicians with a comprehensive concussion evaluation system.&nbsp; It includes a computerized neurocognitive exam. In addition, C3 Logix tracks a patient’s dynamic vision reflexes and ability to visually focus on moving objects. The tool features a battery of tests that effectively measure motor skills and balance through a unique iPad application.

When the iPad is strapped to a patient’s back, the app collects accelerometer and gyroscopic data to assess postural stability while the patient attempts various stances on both firm and soft surfaces.

“Each concussion is unique, so it is important to treat individuals on a case-by-case basis,” said Dylan Moore, athletic trainer at HaysMed.&nbsp;

Comparing post-injury test scores of an individual to their own baseline test scores is considered best practice.&nbsp; Without a baseline test to use for comparison, an individual’s scores can only be compared to the general population.&nbsp; Also, because baseline testing occurs in the pre-season, the very act of getting tested will raise concussion awareness for athletes, parents, and coaches.&nbsp;

“Cognitive testing should not be the sole basis of management decisions,” said Jensen Scheele, athletic trainer at HaysMed. “Rather, it is seen as an aid to the decision-making process in conjunction with a range of assessments and investigational results.”&nbsp;

 The final determination regarding concussion diagnosis and/or return to play is a medical decision based on clinical judgment and final clearance will remain with the athlete’s physician.

When it comes to TBIs, you cannot always prevent the accidental blow to the head, a trip and fall, or the surprise hit. This means that concussions can and will happen in sports. All injuries, concussions included, are part of the inherent risks of playing sports. With that said, there is still a lot that can be done to minimize the frequency of concussions, as well as reduce the long-term negative outcomes.&nbsp; Namely, education, awareness, and ensuring that medical coverage exists whenever sports are being played are the best tools for concussion prevention.

The goal is to minimize the risk of concussion. HaysMed provides concussion awareness and prevention education including:

<a>For concussion questions, to schedule an appointment, and or information on individual or group education and baseline testing, call 785-623-5691.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625772030158.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed offers pre-season concussion exams for area athletes as part of their sports medicine program.&nbsp; The exams are given at the schools covered by the HaysMed athletic trainers and include Ellis, La Crosse, Hays High, Thomas Moore Prep-Marian Junior/Senior High School and Victoria.Baseline concussion testing is a pre-season exam that assesses an athlete's balance and brain function. This includes learning and memory skills, the ability to pay attention or concentrate, how quickly he or she thinks and solves problems, as well as for the presence of any concussion symptoms.Concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that may result in a bad headache with altered levels of alertness, or even unconsciousness. A concussion temporarily interferes with the way your brain works. Concussion can affect memory, judgment, reflexes, speech, balance, coordination and even sleep patterns.According to the Kansas State High School Activities Association Concussion Reporting Summary the year average number of reported concussions was 1,584 from 2018 to 2021.“After a concussion occurs, it is important to measure how well your brain functions post-injury and compare that to the brain function prior to the injury.”&nbsp; Said Dr. Wally Walstrom, board-certified sports medicine physician at HaysMed. “A valid baseline concussion test is key in a comprehensive approach to concussion management.”The baseline tests are typically taken in the pre-season.&nbsp; Baseline tests are assessments that measure reaction time, memory capacity, speed of mental processing, concentration, and balance.&nbsp; Results from the baseline tests can be used and compared to a similar exam conducted if an athlete has a suspected concussion.&nbsp; “The idea is that if we know how an individual athlete “normally” functions on such a test, after a concussion, the post-concussion scores can be one tool to help determine when they have sufficiently recovered from the concussion to safely return to play,” said Shawn Landers, athletic trainer at HaysMed.HaysMed uses the C3 Logix concussion baseline testing program.&nbsp; It provides clinicians with a comprehensive concussion evaluation system.&nbsp; It includes a computerized neurocognitive exam. In addition, C3 Logix tracks a patient’s dynamic vision reflexes and ability to visually focus on moving objects. The tool features a battery of tests that effectively measure motor skills and balance through a unique iPad application.When the iPad is strapped to a patient’s back, the app collects accelerometer and gyroscopic data to assess postural stability while the patient attempts various stances on both firm and soft surfaces.“Each concussion is unique, so it is important to treat individuals on a case-by-case basis,” said Dylan Moore, athletic trainer at HaysMed.&nbsp;Comparing post-injury test scores of an individual to their own baseline test scores is considered best practice.&nbsp; Without a baseline test to use for comparison, an individual’s scores can only be compared to the general population.&nbsp; Also, because baseline testing occurs in the pre-season, the very act of getting tested will raise concussion awareness for athletes, parents, and coaches.&nbsp;“Cognitive testing should not be the sole basis of management decisions,” said Jensen Scheele, athletic trainer at HaysMed. “Rather, it is seen as an aid to the decision-making process in conjunction with a range of assessments and investigational results.”&nbsp; The final determination regarding concussion diagnosis and/or return to play is a medical decision based on clinical judgment and final clearance will remain with the athlete’s physician.When it comes to TBIs, you cannot always prevent the accidental blow to the head, a trip and fall, or the surprise hit. This means that concussions can and will happen in sports. All injuries, concussions included, are part of the inherent risks of playing sports. With that said, there is still a lot that can be done to minimize the frequency of concussions, as well as reduce the long-term negative outcomes.&nbsp; Namely, education, awareness, and ensuring that medical coverage exists whenever sports are being played are the best tools for concussion prevention.The goal is to minimize the risk of concussion. HaysMed provides concussion awareness and prevention education including:• the signs and symptoms of concussion• second impact syndrome• free baseline screenings• return-to-play guidelines• post-concussion treatment options<a>For concussion questions, to schedule an appointment, and or information on individual or group education and baseline testing, call 785-623-5691.</a>

HaysMed offers baseline concussion tests in area schools

By COLE REIF <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND — The Shafer Art Gallery on the campus of Barton Community College opened
in 1992 as a way to permanently display an art collection and present exhibits
from all over the world. 
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Shafer Gallery Director David Barnes said the
gallery is just starting to reemerge with displays and folks visiting to see the
exhibits. 
Over the course of 30 years, the gallery has made an impact on numerous
artists, students and spectators.

An artist by the name of Scott Thein, who lived primarily in New York, had
drawings featured in the Great Bend gallery in 2016. 
“Scott was a colorful character,” said Barnes. “We found out he was incredibly
talented and one of the most intelligent artists I’ve ever met.” 
Thein passed away in June 2022 from complications with cancer. Before Thein
passed away, he asked Barnes if he could find a home in the gallery for a “special”
painting.

“The painting was done by a relative of Scott’s, by the name of Miksa Timar-Thein,”
said Barnes. “Miksa was a very well-known Hungarian painter. The story is, this
individual left Poland and sought refuge in Paris, France right before World
War II.” 
Miksa died in the Holocaust. Several of his paintings were passed down to his
relatives. Scott Thein received one of his works and then gifted the oil painting
to the gallery. 
“Scott wanted this painting to be kept in a place that he trusted and valued,”
said Barnes. “On one of his trips from New York, he rolled up the painting and
stuck it in his suitcase. It’s an oil painting and the oil painting cracked.
When he brought it to me, it was a disaster.” 
Along with the painting, Scott Thein gave the Shafer Art Gallery at Barton the
finances to send the painting to the Western Center for the Conservation of
Fine Arts in Colorado to have it restored.

Thein also gave the gallery a generous legacy with a fund that can be used for
restoration and preservation of any other works in the gallery’s collection. 
“I think this donation is a testament to the way that we can provide a place
for people to trust,” said Barnes. “That’s what was heartwarming to me. Trust
ran through the story so deeply. Scott really trusted us to be able to take
care of this and he knew that we would do it right.” 
Barnes referred to Miksa Timar-Thein as a significant artist of the period
between 1874 and 1940.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663338907104.jpeg" alt="Shafer Art Gallery on the campus of Barton Community College" />
 <figcaption>Shafer Art Gallery on the campus of Barton Community College</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>GREAT BEND — The Shafer Art Gallery on the campus of Barton Community College opened
in 1992 as a way to permanently display an art collection and present exhibits
from all over the world. 
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Shafer Gallery Director David Barnes said the
gallery is just starting to reemerge with displays and folks visiting to see the
exhibits. 
Over the course of 30 years, the gallery has made an impact on numerous
artists, students and spectators.An artist by the name of Scott Thein, who lived primarily in New York, had
drawings featured in the Great Bend gallery in 2016. 
“Scott was a colorful character,” said Barnes. “We found out he was incredibly
talented and one of the most intelligent artists I’ve ever met.” 
Thein passed away in June 2022 from complications with cancer. Before Thein
passed away, he asked Barnes if he could find a home in the gallery for a “special”
painting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663338956013.jpeg" alt="Oil painting by Miksa Timar-Thein. The artwork was given to the Shafer Art Gallery at Barton Community College by Scott Thein." />
 <figcaption>Oil painting by Miksa Timar-Thein. The artwork was given to the Shafer Art Gallery at Barton Community College by Scott Thein.</figcaption>
 </figure>“The painting was done by a relative of Scott’s, by the name of Miksa Timar-Thein,”
said Barnes. “Miksa was a very well-known Hungarian painter. The story is, this
individual left Poland and sought refuge in Paris, France right before World
War II.” 
Miksa died in the Holocaust. Several of his paintings were passed down to his
relatives. Scott Thein received one of his works and then gifted the oil painting
to the gallery. 
“Scott wanted this painting to be kept in a place that he trusted and valued,”
said Barnes. “On one of his trips from New York, he rolled up the painting and
stuck it in his suitcase. It’s an oil painting and the oil painting cracked.
When he brought it to me, it was a disaster.” 
Along with the painting, Scott Thein gave the Shafer Art Gallery at Barton the
finances to send the painting to the Western Center for the Conservation of
Fine Arts in Colorado to have it restored.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663338989185.jpeg" alt="Shafer Art Gallery" />
 <figcaption>Shafer Art Gallery</figcaption>
 </figure>Thein also gave the gallery a generous legacy with a fund that can be used for
restoration and preservation of any other works in the gallery’s collection. 
“I think this donation is a testament to the way that we can provide a place
for people to trust,” said Barnes. “That’s what was heartwarming to me. Trust
ran through the story so deeply. Scott really trusted us to be able to take
care of this and he knew that we would do it right.” 
Barnes referred to Miksa Timar-Thein as a significant artist of the period
between 1874 and 1940.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663339025203.jpeg" alt="Shafer Art Gallery" />
 <figcaption>Shafer Art Gallery</figcaption>
 </figure>

Barton’s Shafer Gallery making impacts, left generous legacy 

Fort Hays State University’s Science Café for September is set for Monday, Sept. 19.

The monthly presentation, entitled&nbsp;“DART – a targeted mission – how do we move an asteroid?,”&nbsp;is sponsored by FHSU’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI), will begin at 7 p.m. at The Venue in Thirsty’s Brew Pub &amp; Grill, 2704 Vine.

Dr. Paul Adams, Dean, College of Education, &nbsp;Professor of Physics and Anschutz, Professor of Education, &nbsp;NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador will talk about the DART satellite. This satellite is scheduled to slam into the asteroid Dimorphos, which orbits a larger asteroid named Didymos at the speed of 15,000 mph. Picture a vending machine hitting the pyramid of Giza. The goal is to slightly change the orbital time of Dimorphos as the first test of planetary defense from asteroid collisions. While neither asteroid is any threat to Earth, it is a proof-of-concept mission.&nbsp;

Science Café presentations are free and open to the public. Questions can be directed to Cari Rohleder at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4743 or by visiting:

<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJN6YW3ahiFh3u1xso6sQsiDE6GJ06bOQIjYgX8RETmmTZLcU_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOCyBqRvmIQneA21WM46gvl0EK-2B-2Fq9y55NJWtOIogCuSi6f6rGXgTjOK5YResx87iBjoRftZZ0tPy9QbXtHd-2FDRm7aUqxHkAz1YOT7WSj9TsaKlpvjOXtRyF92s-2FCyZ9WRXfdkJL8yYmqrdbxs6cR-2B08JOh2ksDuRmADZlr2zmccsBzXXxVnbhUb6iepZ21iNmV0yOwtod602CR8G3WygJZ9J3-2F1y38-2FC4x-2FWrl655tJtqOWNC4dPPE-2BkhPBz-2FA1w">www.twitter.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJM9yMLtcQHFVzIgvo7vtXsa2lh-2FFmlw1B0utYEX-2F-2BAl65ttfmJSIa8vOh5ZwyxplYg-3D-3Dzbrb_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOCyBqRvmIQneA21WM46gvl0EK-2B-2Fq9y55NJWtOIogCuSi6f6rGXgTjOK5YResx87iBjoRftZZ0tPy9QbXtHd-2FDY74-2B5CmdBmScfmmB3jo3jiEfEM8DE4Wo0eBW6yOt8SPeNxzlAZzrPm-2Fmtpy-2BO9Pluea9mhmXHFxqZ7-2Fni7ULVYqD8u5i5UB9jqZNJCmhpV5AZtzJlmrHELyl4ZK63cE-2BkmJSUNUxpYH3-2B0qDss7CCaUzYZkTKD95EgXAbuKgQam">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663098765656.jpeg" alt="Dr. Paul Adams" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Paul Adams</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University’s Science Café for September is set for Monday, Sept. 19.The monthly presentation, entitled&nbsp;“DART – a targeted mission – how do we move an asteroid?,”&nbsp;is sponsored by FHSU’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI), will begin at 7 p.m. at The Venue in Thirsty’s Brew Pub &amp; Grill, 2704 Vine.Dr. Paul Adams, Dean, College of Education, &nbsp;Professor of Physics and Anschutz, Professor of Education, &nbsp;NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador will talk about the DART satellite. This satellite is scheduled to slam into the asteroid Dimorphos, which orbits a larger asteroid named Didymos at the speed of 15,000 mph. Picture a vending machine hitting the pyramid of Giza. The goal is to slightly change the orbital time of Dimorphos as the first test of planetary defense from asteroid collisions. While neither asteroid is any threat to Earth, it is a proof-of-concept mission.&nbsp;Science Café presentations are free and open to the public. Questions can be directed to Cari Rohleder at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4743 or by visiting:<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJIbWkKLWq-2BAH9EOMnpKiWtF21cgruX7hnOpjSWWak0MVsNgd_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOCyBqRvmIQneA21WM46gvl0EK-2B-2Fq9y55NJWtOIogCuSi6f6rGXgTjOK5YResx87iBjoRftZZ0tPy9QbXtHd-2FDUhbSUEC8xo2jBRPrx2ADXer-2B5Ap-2BCTWXL-2FCizhTQA9aBWrzyzlG54aezsdp-2FaAFCaMeOulZ6SHH1PG8zHUkO5P8CKTeE8hXDEu08iK10w7JPxKVbS9-2BPcDg8E-2BvHDGCnzD41KCLAjK5PUSaFXZgRg8jopJ6DQ49BxjeGCJzsPLR">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a><a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJN6YW3ahiFh3u1xso6sQsiDE6GJ06bOQIjYgX8RETmmTZLcU_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOCyBqRvmIQneA21WM46gvl0EK-2B-2Fq9y55NJWtOIogCuSi6f6rGXgTjOK5YResx87iBjoRftZZ0tPy9QbXtHd-2FDRm7aUqxHkAz1YOT7WSj9TsaKlpvjOXtRyF92s-2FCyZ9WRXfdkJL8yYmqrdbxs6cR-2B08JOh2ksDuRmADZlr2zmccsBzXXxVnbhUb6iepZ21iNmV0yOwtod602CR8G3WygJZ9J3-2F1y38-2FC4x-2FWrl655tJtqOWNC4dPPE-2BkhPBz-2FA1w">www.twitter.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a><a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJM9yMLtcQHFVzIgvo7vtXsa2lh-2FFmlw1B0utYEX-2F-2BAl65ttfmJSIa8vOh5ZwyxplYg-3D-3Dzbrb_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BOCyBqRvmIQneA21WM46gvl0EK-2B-2Fq9y55NJWtOIogCuSi6f6rGXgTjOK5YResx87iBjoRftZZ0tPy9QbXtHd-2FDY74-2B5CmdBmScfmmB3jo3jiEfEM8DE4Wo0eBW6yOt8SPeNxzlAZzrPm-2Fmtpy-2BO9Pluea9mhmXHFxqZ7-2Fni7ULVYqD8u5i5UB9jqZNJCmhpV5AZtzJlmrHELyl4ZK63cE-2BkmJSUNUxpYH3-2B0qDss7CCaUzYZkTKD95EgXAbuKgQam">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

FHSU’s first fall Science Café set for Sept. 19

The Hays Police Department responded to 87 calls from Aug. 28 through Sept. 3, 2022 according to the HPD Activity Log.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 87 calls from Aug. 28 through Sept. 3, 2022 according to the HPD Activity Log.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663321919453.jpeg" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663321967465.jpeg" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663322036578.jpeg" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
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Hays PD Activity Log, Aug. 28 - Sept. 3 

For a full look at the weather forecast click here.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663261058320.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For a full look at the weather forecast click here.

Extension in Kansas introduced a new way of sharing educational programs during the pandemic. While&nbsp;we were not doing&nbsp;face-to-face presentations,&nbsp;people of all ages found&nbsp;webinars recorded by Extension Family and Consumer Sciences professionals from across the state&nbsp;to be an effective&nbsp;way to learn about a variety of topics.

Dubbed as Living Well Wednesday, the topics touched on a wide variety of essential skills that empower you and your family to live, work, and thrive. The webinars were held over the lunch hour on the second and fourth Wednesday, throughout much of 2021 and during the first three months of 2022.&nbsp;The neat thing is that each session is recorded and available to listen to on your schedule.&nbsp;Just go to the KSRE website and in the search type in living well Wednesday.

The first presentation in 2022 was titled, “Parents Guide to Social Media.” A guest presenter, John Calvert, Director of Safe and Secure Schools Unit, shares his expertise about the apps to be aware of on&nbsp;a&nbsp;child’s phone.&nbsp;It was an eye-opening presentation that concerns me when I think of my four grandchildren, aged 7 to 14. Besides the recordings&nbsp;there are links to excellent handouts and additional resources to refer back to.

There are three upcoming Living Well Wednesday presentations that I want to highlight today. The three webinars will be provided in Spanish only.&nbsp;“Connecting Cultures – Celebrating our Diversity”&nbsp;is the title of the Sept. 28 webinar. Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena, Family Life and Resources Agent in Sedgwick County, is the presenter.&nbsp;

Guest presenters from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment will be sharing “Chronic Illness – Prevention and Management” on Oct. 12. The discussion will cover the leading causes of chronic illnesses for the Latino population. Participants will learn strategies and efforts that one can do to reduce or prevent chronic illnesses.&nbsp;

The final Spanish webinar,&nbsp;on&nbsp;Oct. 26 is titled, “Survive, Strive and Thrive.” This presentation, shared by Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena,&nbsp;will help parents gain confidence in their ability to be a good parent and to gain the skills and attitudes necessary for rearing healthy, positive children.

The three Spanish&nbsp;only&nbsp;webinars are set for 12:15 – 1 PM each of the dates I mentioned. I’m happy to share the flyer with information about registering for the webinars.&nbsp;

And finally, plans are being made to offer another series of Living Well Wednesday in English&nbsp;in 2023.&nbsp;I look forward to sharing the topics with you as soon as they are announced.&nbsp;So, stay tuned!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. " />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. </figcaption>
 </figure>Extension in Kansas introduced a new way of sharing educational programs during the pandemic. While&nbsp;we were not doing&nbsp;face-to-face presentations,&nbsp;people of all ages found&nbsp;webinars recorded by Extension Family and Consumer Sciences professionals from across the state&nbsp;to be an effective&nbsp;way to learn about a variety of topics.Dubbed as Living Well Wednesday, the topics touched on a wide variety of essential skills that empower you and your family to live, work, and thrive. The webinars were held over the lunch hour on the second and fourth Wednesday, throughout much of 2021 and during the first three months of 2022.&nbsp;The neat thing is that each session is recorded and available to listen to on your schedule.&nbsp;Just go to the KSRE website and in the search type in living well Wednesday.The first presentation in 2022 was titled, “Parents Guide to Social Media.” A guest presenter, John Calvert, Director of Safe and Secure Schools Unit, shares his expertise about the apps to be aware of on&nbsp;a&nbsp;child’s phone.&nbsp;It was an eye-opening presentation that concerns me when I think of my four grandchildren, aged 7 to 14. Besides the recordings&nbsp;there are links to excellent handouts and additional resources to refer back to.There are three upcoming Living Well Wednesday presentations that I want to highlight today. The three webinars will be provided in Spanish only.&nbsp;“Connecting Cultures – Celebrating our Diversity”&nbsp;is the title of the Sept. 28 webinar. Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena, Family Life and Resources Agent in Sedgwick County, is the presenter.&nbsp;Guest presenters from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment will be sharing “Chronic Illness – Prevention and Management” on Oct. 12. The discussion will cover the leading causes of chronic illnesses for the Latino population. Participants will learn strategies and efforts that one can do to reduce or prevent chronic illnesses.&nbsp;The final Spanish webinar,&nbsp;on&nbsp;Oct. 26 is titled, “Survive, Strive and Thrive.” This presentation, shared by Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena,&nbsp;will help parents gain confidence in their ability to be a good parent and to gain the skills and attitudes necessary for rearing healthy, positive children.The three Spanish&nbsp;only&nbsp;webinars are set for 12:15 – 1 PM each of the dates I mentioned. I’m happy to share the flyer with information about registering for the webinars.&nbsp;And finally, plans are being made to offer another series of Living Well Wednesday in English&nbsp;in 2023.&nbsp;I look forward to sharing the topics with you as soon as they are announced.&nbsp;So, stay tuned!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Living Well Wednesday programs announced

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger discusses how the Chamber works to serve area businesses.

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger discusses how the Chamber works to serve area businesses.<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber continues work to serve area businesses" 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=767eg-12c4ec9-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>For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Chamber continues work to serve area businesses

The single-largest research investment by Kansas wheat farmers came to life almost ten years ago when the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center opened its doors. Since that time, the center has set a standard of excellence for wheat research and worked to meet the specific needs of Kansas wheat growers. In recognition of the upcoming decade milestone, the Kansas Wheat Commission embarked on a statewide effort to gather Kansas wheat farmer feedback on the future — positioning the commission to continue finding innovative solutions to position wheat growers for success.

The effort included eight roundtable discussions involving 120 Kansas wheat farmers. Farmers shared insights on obstacles like infrastructure, market volatility and supply chain disruptions as well as the value they see in improved genetics, sustainable production practices and regionally specific management practices.

“One of the participants in the roundtables said, ‘It’s the little things together that make wheat pay,’” said Justin Gilpin, CEO of Kansas Wheat. “Helping farmers manage all of those little things well is our role as the checkoff. We need farmer input to ensure we’re doing that as effectively as possible.”

The roundtable discussions indicated Kansas wheat farmers particularly appreciate programs that highlight best practices, provide opportunities to connect with others in the industry and offer guidance specific to operations or regions. One of the Kansas Wheat programs that received high praise in the discussions was the Kansas Wheat Rx program, which helps farmers make management decisions and choose varieties based on their individual growing region’s characteristics.

Based on the feedback, Gilpin said Kansas Wheat’s team will continue to focus on research, education and information services that address farmers’ concerns and promote market development.

“Every day, our team focuses on providing the information and services needed to make all the elements farmers can control — genetics, agronomic and management decisions — work together,” he said. “The input provided through the statewide discussions strengthened our focus as a team and will help us determine how to better meet the needs of wheat farmers in Kansas.”

Farmers in these roundtables also confirmed the following commitments:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Using cutting edge research to purposely select wheat varieties and use regionally specific management practices to produce the best wheat crop possible.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Exploring new marketing opportunities presented by preferred variety programs and producing high protein wheat to meet market demand.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Making agronomic decisions and applying research to reduce inputs and to select wheat varieties that will perform well in their region.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ensuring transparency with consumers to share the story of how a safe, nutritious wheat crop is produced.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Continuing to work to get improved wheat varieties into the hand of farmers faster.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Helping producers practically apply research innovation to their on-farm management decisions through regionally held Wheat Rx programs and other outreach.

An executive summary of the Kansas Wheat farmer stakeholder feedback is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001FwDflsqLKeTZEbApy2ScySflAvRMQlkukwOfSrvwE_Uq02OAf3rjoD5YC9cgcIrJUisJYfj8MN0uaGvtDMUN9Ng3a90jafbwZQo9l0-1AurQwLYekPVHAxnd5_O2udyFuHn-C_sDGTZmxHrUMAUyHIRdZGhqS6Ze0doxXFbCQOVuQDSwgoow1MtDBFHcFxYKu47btreLS4sVJkLRePrhMOTu_SYOUCj0bcmz3tasOXsV1cbucYE37w==&amp;c=ce2sgJlWeWZ5fErSbP-JwyQO950NFUyplmBjMorLtDuk5Z-i-7ZSOg==&amp;ch=L2FaFfgeChtcB08DC5l3Q_aPIKgJvzAJ1A5IAACERyapw83sSHGUTQ==" target="_blank">https://kswheat.com/sites/default/files/kansas_wheat_stakeholder_executive_summary_2022.pdf</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662500196293.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The single-largest research investment by Kansas wheat farmers came to life almost ten years ago when the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center opened its doors. Since that time, the center has set a standard of excellence for wheat research and worked to meet the specific needs of Kansas wheat growers. In recognition of the upcoming decade milestone, the Kansas Wheat Commission embarked on a statewide effort to gather Kansas wheat farmer feedback on the future — positioning the commission to continue finding innovative solutions to position wheat growers for success.The effort included eight roundtable discussions involving 120 Kansas wheat farmers. Farmers shared insights on obstacles like infrastructure, market volatility and supply chain disruptions as well as the value they see in improved genetics, sustainable production practices and regionally specific management practices.“One of the participants in the roundtables said, ‘It’s the little things together that make wheat pay,’” said Justin Gilpin, CEO of Kansas Wheat. “Helping farmers manage all of those little things well is our role as the checkoff. We need farmer input to ensure we’re doing that as effectively as possible.”The roundtable discussions indicated Kansas wheat farmers particularly appreciate programs that highlight best practices, provide opportunities to connect with others in the industry and offer guidance specific to operations or regions. One of the Kansas Wheat programs that received high praise in the discussions was the Kansas Wheat Rx program, which helps farmers make management decisions and choose varieties based on their individual growing region’s characteristics.Based on the feedback, Gilpin said Kansas Wheat’s team will continue to focus on research, education and information services that address farmers’ concerns and promote market development.“Every day, our team focuses on providing the information and services needed to make all the elements farmers can control — genetics, agronomic and management decisions — work together,” he said. “The input provided through the statewide discussions strengthened our focus as a team and will help us determine how to better meet the needs of wheat farmers in Kansas.”Farmers in these roundtables also confirmed the following commitments:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Using cutting edge research to purposely select wheat varieties and use regionally specific management practices to produce the best wheat crop possible.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Exploring new marketing opportunities presented by preferred variety programs and producing high protein wheat to meet market demand.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Making agronomic decisions and applying research to reduce inputs and to select wheat varieties that will perform well in their region.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ensuring transparency with consumers to share the story of how a safe, nutritious wheat crop is produced.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Continuing to work to get improved wheat varieties into the hand of farmers faster.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Helping producers practically apply research innovation to their on-farm management decisions through regionally held Wheat Rx programs and other outreach.An executive summary of the Kansas Wheat farmer stakeholder feedback is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001FwDflsqLKeTZEbApy2ScySflAvRMQlkukwOfSrvwE_Uq02OAf3rjoD5YC9cgcIrJUisJYfj8MN0uaGvtDMUN9Ng3a90jafbwZQo9l0-1AurQwLYekPVHAxnd5_O2udyFuHn-C_sDGTZmxHrUMAUyHIRdZGhqS6Ze0doxXFbCQOVuQDSwgoow1MtDBFHcFxYKu47btreLS4sVJkLRePrhMOTu_SYOUCj0bcmz3tasOXsV1cbucYE37w==&amp;c=ce2sgJlWeWZ5fErSbP-JwyQO950NFUyplmBjMorLtDuk5Z-i-7ZSOg==&amp;ch=L2FaFfgeChtcB08DC5l3Q_aPIKgJvzAJ1A5IAACERyapw83sSHGUTQ==" target="_blank">https://kswheat.com/sites/default/files/kansas_wheat_stakeholder_executive_summary_2022.pdf</a>.Written by Julia Debes for Kansas Wheat

Wheat Scoop:  Kansas wheat farmers share keys to success

<div> <script src="https://embed-931465.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="4dfc6dec-c175-4318-ab5c-c2cb1acd7d2a" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>

YOU HAVE TO PLAY TO WIN! CERVs Football Matchup

The sheriff's office is investigating multiple thefts of oilfield equipment stolen from rural areas in northeastern Ellis County.

Oil industry operators have reported 3-inch tubing, oilfield construction tools and wiring being stolen from&nbsp;rig sites over the last week.

&nbsp;The loss value of the equipment is in the tens of thousands of dollars.

The sheriff's office is requesting the public's assistance in reporting any suspicious activity. 

Reports can be made by calling 911 or (785) 625-1040.

Ellis County Sheriff's DepartmentThe sheriff's office is investigating multiple thefts of oilfield equipment stolen from rural areas in northeastern Ellis County.Oil industry operators have reported 3-inch tubing, oilfield construction tools and wiring being stolen from&nbsp;rig sites over the last week.&nbsp;The loss value of the equipment is in the tens of thousands of dollars.The sheriff's office is requesting the public's assistance in reporting any suspicious activity. Reports can be made by calling 911 or (785) 625-1040.

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