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	What is the most nutritional U.S. vegetable? The natural components in sweet potatoes help the body resist some of our most common deadly diseases. So, overall, the sweet potato is close to being a superfood.

	Fresh sweet potatoes are a best buy because they come with their skin. The skin has nutrients of its own. Plus, it helps make a sweet potato´s fiber content equivalent to the fiber in a bowl of oatmeal.

	Sweet potatoes also are a great source of vitamin E and beta-carotene (vitamin A). These antioxidants bolster the human immune system. They provide protection against cancer, heart disease and stroke. Some evidence suggests they even help delay the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

	Sweet potatoes also are basically fat- and cholesterol-free, setting them apart from other vitamin E sources such as nuts, avocadoes and vegetable oils. In addition, sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index, which is important to both diabetics and carbohydrate counters for maintaining steady blood- glucose levels. A low glycemic index means you digest them slowly. Another benefit of that, of course, is they make you feel full longer.&nbsp;

	Sweet potatoes provide from one-third to one-half of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C, another immune system booster. Sweet potatoes are also an important source of vitamin B6 and iron.&nbsp; They contain folate, a B vitamin that´s essential for cell growth and reproduction. They´re among the top three food sources of potassium, which helps maintain normal blood pressure and the body´s heart and nerve functions.

	It doesn’t hurt that the sweet potato is fairly low in calories. And, it’s virtually sodium-free, all-in-all a great choice for eating year-round. If handled gently, unwashed sweet potatoes can store well for weeks or even months in a dry, cool (55-60 F) location.&nbsp; Sweet potatoes are only washed right before cooking because moisture promotes spoilage.&nbsp;

	Add sweet potatoes to your shopping list and enjoy the upcoming holidays.&nbsp;

Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>	What is the most nutritional U.S. vegetable? The natural components in sweet potatoes help the body resist some of our most common deadly diseases. So, overall, the sweet potato is close to being a superfood.	Fresh sweet potatoes are a best buy because they come with their skin. The skin has nutrients of its own. Plus, it helps make a sweet potato´s fiber content equivalent to the fiber in a bowl of oatmeal.	Sweet potatoes also are a great source of vitamin E and beta-carotene (vitamin A). These antioxidants bolster the human immune system. They provide protection against cancer, heart disease and stroke. Some evidence suggests they even help delay the progression of Alzheimer's disease.	Sweet potatoes also are basically fat- and cholesterol-free, setting them apart from other vitamin E sources such as nuts, avocadoes and vegetable oils. In addition, sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index, which is important to both diabetics and carbohydrate counters for maintaining steady blood- glucose levels. A low glycemic index means you digest them slowly. Another benefit of that, of course, is they make you feel full longer.&nbsp;	Sweet potatoes provide from one-third to one-half of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C, another immune system booster. Sweet potatoes are also an important source of vitamin B6 and iron.&nbsp; They contain folate, a B vitamin that´s essential for cell growth and reproduction. They´re among the top three food sources of potassium, which helps maintain normal blood pressure and the body´s heart and nerve functions.	It doesn’t hurt that the sweet potato is fairly low in calories. And, it’s virtually sodium-free, all-in-all a great choice for eating year-round. If handled gently, unwashed sweet potatoes can store well for weeks or even months in a dry, cool (55-60 F) location.&nbsp; Sweet potatoes are only washed right before cooking because moisture promotes spoilage.&nbsp;	Add sweet potatoes to your shopping list and enjoy the upcoming holidays.&nbsp;	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Super sweet potatoes 

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

Are you ready? Are you ready to advance your business in the race to a modern digital environment? Today we’ll learn about a new digital, online initiative to support rural businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Last week we met Christina Long, strategic director for NetWorked – Partnership for Community Investment. She facilitates monthly online convenings during which participants can learn about resources to help businesses and communities. The get-togethers are conducted on Zoom and archived on the NetWorked website.&nbsp;

“We are bringing networks together that may not typically have a way to naturally connect,” Christina said. “We learn about resources and information that we can take back to our communities to activate strong community changes.”&nbsp;

Monthly topics have included&nbsp;the Kansas Community Investment Fund, the Kansas Leadership Center transformation grants and programs, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Healthify and Pathway grant, food access and food insecurity as addressed by the Rural Grocery Initiative, and the Kansas Healthy Food Initiative.&nbsp;

Along with NetWork Kansas and other partners, these programs have assisted and invested in small businesses across the state – even in communities as small as the store in the rural community of Mildred, population 28 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

Now there is another, brand new resource to help small businesses. It was highlighted during a recent online session.&nbsp;

“NetWork Kansas is partnering with Rural Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) and Verizon to offer this new program,” said Steve Radley, NetWork Kansas CEO. It is called the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready program. As of Oct. 1, this program is available for free online. Verizon has stated a goal that, by 2030, the company would provide 1 million small businesses with resources to help those businesses thrive in the digital economy.&nbsp;

Evelyn McKinney of Rural LISC explained the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready program at the NetWorked convening. LISC was founded by the Ford Foundation in 1979. Evelyn is part of the Rural LISC team.&nbsp;

“Rural LISC is focused on making our rural communities great places to live, work, play and innovate,” she said. LISC operates through a set of localized partners referred to as business development organizations.&nbsp;

“(NetWork Kansas) is one of our stellar rural-serving (business development organizations),” Evelyn said. “Now, NetWork Kansas and Verizon are bringing something special to all small business owners.”&nbsp;

The program is described as an integrated platform to provide curriculum, coaching and community, curated for small business needs. The guiding principles for this initiative are that it should be personalized, integrated, guided, scalable and authentic.&nbsp;

The program consists of online content and curriculum, one-to-one coaching and mentoring, small business community-building, and incentives, through a unified dashboard.&nbsp;

The service is free. The first step is for business owners to register online, at which point they will be taken to an introductory landing page. The second step is an onboarding page where the business owner provides information so the program can be targeted to the company’s needs. The third step is a customized learning dashboard that reflects a customized learning plan.&nbsp;

“Everything is addressed and delivered through a small business lens,” said LISC staff member Karleen Porcena. “You’re not going to feel like you’re in a classroom. These are bite-sized learning modules. You don’t have to sit through a two-hour lecture.”&nbsp;

The curriculum is focused on three elements: Customers, operations, and money.&nbsp;

Modules include branding, search engine optimization, online growth marketing, resiliency, cybersecurity, financing, and much more.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Content is great, but people need additional resources after getting that content,” Karleen said.&nbsp;

“Entrepreneurship is economic empowerment,” Steve said. “It is so critical that disadvantaged geographies and disadvantaged populations have the opportunity to be entrepreneurs and have the necessary resources available to them.”&nbsp;

For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.verizon.com/about/responsibility/digital-inclusion/small-business-training">www.verizon.com/about/responsibility/digital-inclusion/small-business-training</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.networkedforchange.com/">www.networkedforchange.com</a>.&nbsp;

Are you ready? Are you equipped for your business to move forward in the digital world?&nbsp;&nbsp;We commend Christina Long, Steve Radley and all those involved with NetWorked and the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready platform for making a difference by bringing these new resources to Kansas.&nbsp;

To small business owners, we can say:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ready, set, go!&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635947435612.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentAre you ready? Are you ready to advance your business in the race to a modern digital environment? Today we’ll learn about a new digital, online initiative to support rural businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Last week we met Christina Long, strategic director for NetWorked – Partnership for Community Investment. She facilitates monthly online convenings during which participants can learn about resources to help businesses and communities. The get-togethers are conducted on Zoom and archived on the NetWorked website.&nbsp;“We are bringing networks together that may not typically have a way to naturally connect,” Christina said. “We learn about resources and information that we can take back to our communities to activate strong community changes.”&nbsp;Monthly topics have included&nbsp;the Kansas Community Investment Fund, the Kansas Leadership Center transformation grants and programs, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Healthify and Pathway grant, food access and food insecurity as addressed by the Rural Grocery Initiative, and the Kansas Healthy Food Initiative.&nbsp;Along with NetWork Kansas and other partners, these programs have assisted and invested in small businesses across the state – even in communities as small as the store in the rural community of Mildred, population 28 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;Now there is another, brand new resource to help small businesses. It was highlighted during a recent online session.&nbsp;“NetWork Kansas is partnering with Rural Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) and Verizon to offer this new program,” said Steve Radley, NetWork Kansas CEO. It is called the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready program. As of Oct. 1, this program is available for free online. Verizon has stated a goal that, by 2030, the company would provide 1 million small businesses with resources to help those businesses thrive in the digital economy.&nbsp;Evelyn McKinney of Rural LISC explained the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready program at the NetWorked convening. LISC was founded by the Ford Foundation in 1979. Evelyn is part of the Rural LISC team.&nbsp;“Rural LISC is focused on making our rural communities great places to live, work, play and innovate,” she said. LISC operates through a set of localized partners referred to as business development organizations.&nbsp;“(NetWork Kansas) is one of our stellar rural-serving (business development organizations),” Evelyn said. “Now, NetWork Kansas and Verizon are bringing something special to all small business owners.”&nbsp;The program is described as an integrated platform to provide curriculum, coaching and community, curated for small business needs. The guiding principles for this initiative are that it should be personalized, integrated, guided, scalable and authentic.&nbsp;The program consists of online content and curriculum, one-to-one coaching and mentoring, small business community-building, and incentives, through a unified dashboard.&nbsp;The service is free. The first step is for business owners to register online, at which point they will be taken to an introductory landing page. The second step is an onboarding page where the business owner provides information so the program can be targeted to the company’s needs. The third step is a customized learning dashboard that reflects a customized learning plan.&nbsp;“Everything is addressed and delivered through a small business lens,” said LISC staff member Karleen Porcena. “You’re not going to feel like you’re in a classroom. These are bite-sized learning modules. You don’t have to sit through a two-hour lecture.”&nbsp;The curriculum is focused on three elements: Customers, operations, and money.&nbsp;Modules include branding, search engine optimization, online growth marketing, resiliency, cybersecurity, financing, and much more.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Content is great, but people need additional resources after getting that content,” Karleen said.&nbsp;“Entrepreneurship is economic empowerment,” Steve said. “It is so critical that disadvantaged geographies and disadvantaged populations have the opportunity to be entrepreneurs and have the necessary resources available to them.”&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.verizon.com/about/responsibility/digital-inclusion/small-business-training">www.verizon.com/about/responsibility/digital-inclusion/small-business-training</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.networkedforchange.com/">www.networkedforchange.com</a>.&nbsp;Are you ready? Are you equipped for your business to move forward in the digital world?&nbsp;&nbsp;We commend Christina Long, Steve Radley and all those involved with NetWorked and the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready platform for making a difference by bringing these new resources to Kansas.&nbsp;To small business owners, we can say:&nbsp;&nbsp;Ready, set, go!&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Christina Long, NetWorked

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Clemson commit Jaren Kanak scored all three touchdowns for Hays.

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 </figure><a href="https://www.facebook.com/kimreelphotography">Follow Kim Reel Photography on Facebook</a>Clemson commit Jaren Kanak scored all three touchdowns for Hays.

'REEL' FOOTBALL: Images from Indians' playoff win

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

When Sydney Niernberger was a little girl, she set up a classroom in the family's basement where she was the bossy teacher to her younger sister.

"It's always been in me. It never wavered in me. I always wanted to be a teacher," she said.

She attended O'Loughlin Elementary School, Felten Middle School, Hays High School and then earned bachelor's and master's degrees at Fort Hays State University.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5f1002b0-5a78-4bc4-8a1e-ec6ce00e4387">MAKE YOUR NOMINATION FOR NEXT MONTH'S TEACHER OF THE MONTH</a>

Landing a job at Hays Middle School after college was her dream. Six years later, she's still teaching sixth-grade reading and language arts in the same school she attended as a child and loving it every day.

"My roots in Hays are very important to me, and I'm very proud to be here," she said.

Niernberger was nominated for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month by Jodi Brazda.

"Ms. Niernberger made my son's transition from elementary school to middle school incredibly easy. She was always free to answer any questions we had as well as listened intently to the concerns we had throughout the transition to a new school," Brazda said.

Brazda said Niernberger has a strong work ethic, is incredibly organized and is extremely transparent with her expectations. 

"I truly believe my son's success in sixth grade was in large part to Ms. Niernberger. Not only was he on honor roll all semesters, but he matured greatly throughout his first year in middle school," Brazda said. "Without her help, I don't think he would have been as successful as he was. It's very easy for young boys to get distracted and off task, and she always managed to help him overcome both"

&nbsp;Niernberger continues to be inspired by the teachers she had when she was a student in Hays schools. She still keeps in touch with some of them and has photos hanging in her classroom of those special teachers.

Bill Maddy was Niernberger's middle school homeroom teacher.

"His care for the kids ... He made us feel so special and at home and loved," she said. "I will never forget that. Everyone loved Mr. Maddy. He was one of those very special teachers. I always wanted to be one of those teachers."

Her sixth-grade English teacher, Marilyn Engel, became her mentor when she was hired to work at Hays Middle School after graduating FHSU.

"She had this little classroom, but she made it feel so cozy. She was just the best," Niernberger said. ...

"It was very full circle," she said. "She taught me so many lessons. I could never repay her. She was definitely there for me and a very special person in my life. She means a lot to me."

Sixth grade can be tough as the students transition to a new school, but Niernberger said she thinks she's found her niche at the middle school.

"I love when people ask me what I do. I say I'm a middle school teacher and they look at me with the craziest face like 'Oh, my gosh. What's wrong with you?' I love that. They need someone there at this age," she said. ...

"I love this age, because they can be squirrelly little sixth graders, but they're so funny," she said. "Their personalities are coming out. I spend all day laughing. They thrive on that connection still with their teachers. 

Niernberger said connection with her students has to come first because kids won't learn from teachers they don't like.

"You have to take the time and intention to get to know them," she said, "to see what makes them tick and who they are."

Her heart is broken by some of the challenges her students face.

"I can't imagine being an 11- or 12-year-old and having to go through what some of them go through," she said. "If I can be that one person who can take the time to understand them and just listen to them and get to know them, I have to do that first before I can teach them something. ...

"They need that one trusted adult and that person who can be there for them, and then we can get to the reading and language arts and get them excelling in that aspect."

"Just because you work 8 to 3, that doesn't shut off," she said. "You're still thinking about your kids and what they're going through. Sometimes you're lying in bed at night worrying about one of your kids.

"Did they eat dinner tonight? Did they get fed? I hope they got picked up from school on time. That doesn't shut off. Your kids are your kids."

Despite the sleepless nights and challenges, Niernberger says she feels blessed.

"Day to day it can be hard to remember, but this is the dream that I had. It is cool that I'm living that every day. I feel very blessed because I'm young and people sometimes don't find their niche when their young off the bat," Niernberger said.

"I thank my lucky stars that I'm here every day. I love my job. I genuinely wake up every day, and I am excited to come see the kids and co-workers, and that's what keeps me going."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635887021540.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635887822241.jpeg" alt="Sydney Niernberger is the October Hays Post Teacher of the Month. She's a sixth-grade teacher at Hays Middle School. " />
 <figcaption>Sydney Niernberger is the October Hays Post Teacher of the Month. She's a sixth-grade teacher at Hays Middle School. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostWhen Sydney Niernberger was a little girl, she set up a classroom in the family's basement where she was the bossy teacher to her younger sister. "It's always been in me. It never wavered in me. I always wanted to be a teacher," she said. She attended O'Loughlin Elementary School, Felten Middle School, Hays High School and then earned bachelor's and master's degrees at Fort Hays State University.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5f1002b0-5a78-4bc4-8a1e-ec6ce00e4387">MAKE YOUR NOMINATION FOR NEXT MONTH'S TEACHER OF THE MONTH</a>Landing a job at Hays Middle School after college was her dream. Six years later, she's still teaching sixth-grade reading and language arts in the same school she attended as a child and loving it every day."My roots in Hays are very important to me, and I'm very proud to be here," she said.Niernberger was nominated for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month by Jodi Brazda."Ms. Niernberger made my son's transition from elementary school to middle school incredibly easy. She was always free to answer any questions we had as well as listened intently to the concerns we had throughout the transition to a new school," Brazda said.Brazda said Niernberger has a strong work ethic, is incredibly organized and is extremely transparent with her expectations. "I truly believe my son's success in sixth grade was in large part to Ms. Niernberger. Not only was he on honor roll all semesters, but he matured greatly throughout his first year in middle school," Brazda said. "Without her help, I don't think he would have been as successful as he was. It's very easy for young boys to get distracted and off task, and she always managed to help him overcome both"<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635888198596.jpeg" alt="Sponsors Mark and Lynette Ottley of Nations Auction and Elite Realty present Sydney Niernberger, sixth-grader teacher at Hays Middle School, with the October Hays Post Teacher of the Month award. " />
 <figcaption>Sponsors Mark and Lynette Ottley of Nations Auction and Elite Realty present Sydney Niernberger, sixth-grader teacher at Hays Middle School, with the October Hays Post Teacher of the Month award. </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Niernberger continues to be inspired by the teachers she had when she was a student in Hays schools. She still keeps in touch with some of them and has photos hanging in her classroom of those special teachers.Bill Maddy was Niernberger's middle school homeroom teacher. "His care for the kids ... He made us feel so special and at home and loved," she said. "I will never forget that. Everyone loved Mr. Maddy. He was one of those very special teachers. I always wanted to be one of those teachers."Her sixth-grade English teacher, Marilyn Engel, became her mentor when she was hired to work at Hays Middle School after graduating FHSU. "She had this little classroom, but she made it feel so cozy. She was just the best," Niernberger said. ... "It was very full circle," she said. "She taught me so many lessons. I could never repay her. She was definitely there for me and a very special person in my life. She means a lot to me."Sixth grade can be tough as the students transition to a new school, but Niernberger said she thinks she's found her niche at the middle school. "I love when people ask me what I do. I say I'm a middle school teacher and they look at me with the craziest face like 'Oh, my gosh. What's wrong with you?' I love that. They need someone there at this age," she said. ... "I love this age, because they can be squirrelly little sixth graders, but they're so funny," she said. "Their personalities are coming out. I spend all day laughing. They thrive on that connection still with their teachers. Niernberger said connection with her students has to come first because kids won't learn from teachers they don't like."You have to take the time and intention to get to know them," she said, "to see what makes them tick and who they are." Her heart is broken by some of the challenges her students face. "I can't imagine being an 11- or 12-year-old and having to go through what some of them go through," she said. "If I can be that one person who can take the time to understand them and just listen to them and get to know them, I have to do that first before I can teach them something. ..."They need that one trusted adult and that person who can be there for them, and then we can get to the reading and language arts and get them excelling in that aspect."Some days she goes home crying. "Just because you work 8 to 3, that doesn't shut off," she said. "You're still thinking about your kids and what they're going through. Sometimes you're lying in bed at night worrying about one of your kids. "Did they eat dinner tonight? Did they get fed? I hope they got picked up from school on time. That doesn't shut off. Your kids are your kids."Despite the sleepless nights and challenges, Niernberger says she feels blessed."Day to day it can be hard to remember, but this is the dream that I had. It is cool that I'm living that every day. I feel very blessed because I'm young and people sometimes don't find their niche when their young off the bat," Niernberger said. "I thank my lucky stars that I'm here every day. I love my job. I genuinely wake up every day, and I am excited to come see the kids and co-workers, and that's what keeps me going."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635887021540.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Teacher of the Month: Hays native inspired by her former Felten teachers

HOISINGTON – The TMP-Marian Monarchs used a quick start and
solid special teams to knock of the fourth-rank Hoisington Cardinals Friday night
and advance to the 2A state quarterfinals with a 36-27 win.

TMP (8-2) could not have asked for a better state Friday
night.

They opened the game with football and strung together a nine-play
drive that covered 66-yard drive that was capped off by a three-yard Bryce Seib
touchdown run.

After forcing a Hoisington (8-2) three-and-out the TMP offense
came right&nbsp; back on the field and drove down
the field and capped off a six-play 58-yard drive with an 18-yard Griffin
Schumacher touchdown run on fourth down to give TMP a 13-0 lead with a little
more than three minutes and 20 seconds left in the first quarter.

Hoisington was able to get their offense going and cut the
TMP lead to 13-6 early in the second quarter on a one-yard Legend Robinson
touchdown run.

It appeared at that point that Hoisington had all the momentum
but TMP’s Kade Harris swung the game right back into TMP’s favorite with a
79-yard kickoff return for a touchdown giving TMP a 20-6 lead. 

After forcing another Hoisington punt TMP was able to find
the endzone one more time before the end of the first half with just over five
minutes to play when Harris scored his first of two rushing touchdowns to put
TMP up 26-6 heading into halftime.

Out of the halftime break Hoisington put together a seven-play
drive that was capped off by Robinson’s second of three touchdowns and they
added a 15-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Wyatt Wikum to Leyton Haxton
made it a one score game at 26-20 with just under a minute left in the third
quarter.

The Monarchs opened the fourth quarter with a touchdown
drive of their own to go back on top 33-20 when Harris broke free for a 32-yard
touchdown.

Robinson scored his final touchdown with 3:44 left in the
fourth quarter to finish off a 12-play drive making it 33-27 TMP.

After a 52-yard kickoff return from Harris that would set up
a 37-yard field goal from Jace Wentling giving TMP the 36-27 lead with 2:39 to
play.

A Mark Rack interception on Hoisington’s final drive sealed
the game for TMP as they hold on for the 36-27 win.

The TMP win over Hoisington snapped an eight-game losing
streak at the hands of the Cardinals and it ended Hoisington’s nine-game home
playoff win streak and their 24-game home win streak.

Harris led TMP with 146-yards on the ground. Seib added 63 rushing
yards.

Robinson scored three-rushing touchdowns in the losing
effort.

TMP will host Kingman in the 2A quarterfinals next week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636179348502.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HOISINGTON – The TMP-Marian Monarchs used a quick start and
solid special teams to knock of the fourth-rank Hoisington Cardinals Friday night
and advance to the 2A state quarterfinals with a 36-27 win.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1154784628&color=%23072d54&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/11-05-21-tmp-coach-int" title="11-05-21 - TMP coach Jay Harris" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">11-05-21 - TMP coach Jay Harris</a></div></div>TMP (8-2) could not have asked for a better state Friday
night.They opened the game with football and strung together a nine-play
drive that covered 66-yard drive that was capped off by a three-yard Bryce Seib
touchdown run.After forcing a Hoisington (8-2) three-and-out the TMP offense
came right&nbsp; back on the field and drove down
the field and capped off a six-play 58-yard drive with an 18-yard Griffin
Schumacher touchdown run on fourth down to give TMP a 13-0 lead with a little
more than three minutes and 20 seconds left in the first quarter.Hoisington was able to get their offense going and cut the
TMP lead to 13-6 early in the second quarter on a one-yard Legend Robinson
touchdown run.It appeared at that point that Hoisington had all the momentum
but TMP’s Kade Harris swung the game right back into TMP’s favorite with a
79-yard kickoff return for a touchdown giving TMP a 20-6 lead. After forcing another Hoisington punt TMP was able to find
the endzone one more time before the end of the first half with just over five
minutes to play when Harris scored his first of two rushing touchdowns to put
TMP up 26-6 heading into halftime.Out of the halftime break Hoisington put together a seven-play
drive that was capped off by Robinson’s second of three touchdowns and they
added a 15-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Wyatt Wikum to Leyton Haxton
made it a one score game at 26-20 with just under a minute left in the third
quarter.The Monarchs opened the fourth quarter with a touchdown
drive of their own to go back on top 33-20 when Harris broke free for a 32-yard
touchdown.Robinson scored his final touchdown with 3:44 left in the
fourth quarter to finish off a 12-play drive making it 33-27 TMP.After a 52-yard kickoff return from Harris that would set up
a 37-yard field goal from Jace Wentling giving TMP the 36-27 lead with 2:39 to
play.A Mark Rack interception on Hoisington’s final drive sealed
the game for TMP as they hold on for the 36-27 win.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1154784604&color=%23072d54&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/11-05-21-tmp-highlights" title="11-05-21 TMP Highlights vs Hoisington" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">11-05-21 TMP Highlights vs Hoisington</a></div></div>The TMP win over Hoisington snapped an eight-game losing
streak at the hands of the Cardinals and it ended Hoisington’s nine-game home
playoff win streak and their 24-game home win streak.Harris led TMP with 146-yards on the ground. Seib added 63 rushing
yards.Robinson scored three-rushing touchdowns in the losing
effort.TMP will host Kingman in the 2A quarterfinals next week.

🏈TMP rides quick start to playoff win over Hoisington

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post

The Hays High Indians played a tenth football in a single season for just the ninth time in school history as the Indians visited Andover on Friday. The defenses reigned supreme in the first half. Each team forced a turnover on downs in the others territory. Hays went three and out, but the Trojans missed a 25 yard field goal to score the first points.

The teams again traded turnover on downs. Following Andover's second one, Hays went 10 plays and 57 yards to score the first points of the game with 1:37 left in the half. The Indians converted on a fourth down and third down on the drive. Jaren Kanak scored from three yards out.&nbsp;

Andover went to the air for their final drive of the half, driving to the 27 yard line before Gavin Meyers recorded a 14 yard sack. The following play the Trojans ran to the 20 yard line where Iden Balman forced a fumble that was recovered by Dalton Dale.

The Indian defense stayed stout in the second half, forcing Andover to punt on their first three possessions. Hays took advantage of the second and third punt by scoring on a pair of Kanak runs. Kanak first scored on a 35 yard run with 4:37 left in the third quarter for a 12-0 advantage. His third and final score came on a 24 yard run and an 18-0 lead with 2:56 left on the fourth quarter clock.

The lone Andover touchdown came on a 57 yard pass with 2:56 left in the game for the final difference of 18-6.

Jaren Kanak rushed for 190 yards on 26 carries. Roy Moroni rushed for 71 yards. The Hays defense recorded five sacks, three by Gavin Meyers.

Hays improves to 8-2. Andover ends their season at 7-3.

It is just the third time in program history Hays will play 11 games in a season. 1993 and 1984 were the other two seasons.

Hays will play at Maize next week. The Eagles beat Bishop Carroll 28-21. Also in 5A West, Kapaun beat Maize South 37-21 and Wichita Northwest ran around Salina Central 66-21 for a matchup next week of the Crusaders and Grizzlies.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kimreelphotography">Cover image courtesy Kim Reel Photography</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636220941706.jpeg" alt="<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kimreelphotography">Photo courtesy Kim Reel Photography</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.facebook.com/kimreelphotography">Photo courtesy Kim Reel Photography</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays PostThe Hays High Indians played a tenth football in a single season for just the ninth time in school history as the Indians visited Andover on Friday. The defenses reigned supreme in the first half. Each team forced a turnover on downs in the others territory. Hays went three and out, but the Trojans missed a 25 yard field goal to score the first points.The teams again traded turnover on downs. Following Andover's second one, Hays went 10 plays and 57 yards to score the first points of the game with 1:37 left in the half. The Indians converted on a fourth down and third down on the drive. Jaren Kanak scored from three yards out.&nbsp;Andover went to the air for their final drive of the half, driving to the 27 yard line before Gavin Meyers recorded a 14 yard sack. The following play the Trojans ran to the 20 yard line where Iden Balman forced a fumble that was recovered by Dalton Dale.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1154774920&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=false&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/11-05-21-hhs-fb-vs-andover-highlights" title="11 - 05 - 21 HHS FB Vs Andover Highlights" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">11 - 05 - 21 HHS FB Vs Andover Highlights</a></div></div>The Indian defense stayed stout in the second half, forcing Andover to punt on their first three possessions. Hays took advantage of the second and third punt by scoring on a pair of Kanak runs. Kanak first scored on a 35 yard run with 4:37 left in the third quarter for a 12-0 advantage. His third and final score came on a 24 yard run and an 18-0 lead with 2:56 left on the fourth quarter clock.The lone Andover touchdown came on a 57 yard pass with 2:56 left in the game for the final difference of 18-6.Coach Tony Crough<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1154774905&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=false&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/11-05-21-coach-crough-interview" title="11 - 05 - 21 Coach Crough Interview" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">11 - 05 - 21 Coach Crough Interview</a></div></div>Jaren Kanak rushed for 190 yards on 26 carries. Roy Moroni rushed for 71 yards. The Hays defense recorded five sacks, three by Gavin Meyers.Hays improves to 8-2. Andover ends their season at 7-3.It is just the third time in program history Hays will play 11 games in a season. 1993 and 1984 were the other two seasons.Hays will play at Maize next week. The Eagles beat Bishop Carroll 28-21. Also in 5A West, Kapaun beat Maize South 37-21 and Wichita Northwest ran around Salina Central 66-21 for a matchup next week of the Crusaders and Grizzlies.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kimreelphotography">Cover image courtesy Kim Reel Photography</a>

MOVING ON: Hays wins in Andover

Five years ago this month, our Barton and Ellis County Extension boards took the first steps to create the Cottonwood Extension District. By June of 2017 we received official word that our operational agreement had been approved by the Attorney General’s office. Today more than half of the counties in Kansas are part of an Extension District. The district concept provides an opportunity for team members to specialize in certain subject matter areas and streamline some of the operations.&nbsp;

Today I want to share the most recent election results, which will bring some new faces to our eight-member Executive Board beginning in 2022. Newly elected to a four-year term in Ellis County are Donna Maskus and Kelsey Stremel. Receiving the most votes in Barton County were Lori Waters and Lexi Straub. These four individuals will be joining Kathie Rondeau, Dick Dougherty, Tatum Kimzey, and Allen Roth, as we look to provide relevant and impactful Extension programming in the year ahead.

I want to publicly thank the outgoing board members who really helped lay the groundwork as the Cottonwood District formed. There were extra committee meetings related to office policies and budget considerations. After all, we were taking two counties’ Extension programs and fine tuning them to create an Extension District that would meet the needs of you, the taxpayer. Deanna Essmiller and Natalie Fullerton, in Barton County and Nathan Leiker and Ramie Wasinger, from Ellis County, completed their 4-year terms. Each one of them had served additional years on their county boards before the Cottonwood District formed.&nbsp;

I am not sure of the combined number of years of volunteer service the four outgoing board members have, but it would be impressive. And that is what I appreciate so much about the Extension Education system in Kansas. We are known as a grassroots organization that places oversight of our Extension programming in the hands of those closest to us.&nbsp;

If you are reading this and would like to get involved with the Extension programming in the Cottonwood Extension District, please give me a call or send an e-mail. Shortly after the first of the year we will be adding members to our Program Development Committees in the four areas that Extension is involved with: Agriculture and Natural Resources, Family and Consumer Science, 4-H and Youth Development, and Community Development.&nbsp;

Don’t be shy. I look forward to your call!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <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 for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Five years ago this month, our Barton and Ellis County Extension boards took the first steps to create the Cottonwood Extension District. By June of 2017 we received official word that our operational agreement had been approved by the Attorney General’s office. Today more than half of the counties in Kansas are part of an Extension District. The district concept provides an opportunity for team members to specialize in certain subject matter areas and streamline some of the operations.&nbsp;Today I want to share the most recent election results, which will bring some new faces to our eight-member Executive Board beginning in 2022. Newly elected to a four-year term in Ellis County are Donna Maskus and Kelsey Stremel. Receiving the most votes in Barton County were Lori Waters and Lexi Straub. These four individuals will be joining Kathie Rondeau, Dick Dougherty, Tatum Kimzey, and Allen Roth, as we look to provide relevant and impactful Extension programming in the year ahead.I want to publicly thank the outgoing board members who really helped lay the groundwork as the Cottonwood District formed. There were extra committee meetings related to office policies and budget considerations. After all, we were taking two counties’ Extension programs and fine tuning them to create an Extension District that would meet the needs of you, the taxpayer. Deanna Essmiller and Natalie Fullerton, in Barton County and Nathan Leiker and Ramie Wasinger, from Ellis County, completed their 4-year terms. Each one of them had served additional years on their county boards before the Cottonwood District formed.&nbsp;I am not sure of the combined number of years of volunteer service the four outgoing board members have, but it would be impressive. And that is what I appreciate so much about the Extension Education system in Kansas. We are known as a grassroots organization that places oversight of our Extension programming in the hands of those closest to us.&nbsp;If you are reading this and would like to get involved with the Extension programming in the Cottonwood Extension District, please give me a call or send an e-mail. Shortly after the first of the year we will be adding members to our Program Development Committees in the four areas that Extension is involved with: Agriculture and Natural Resources, Family and Consumer Science, 4-H and Youth Development, and Community Development.&nbsp;Don’t be shy. I look forward to your call!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Election results in the Cottonwood Extension District

GOVE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8:30p.m. Friday in Gove County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Ford F150 driven by Stephen C.&nbsp;Pichoff, 43, Loveland, Co., was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Grainfield-Hoxie exit.

The pickup rear-ended a 2003 Freightliner semi driven by Fredy Salazar Monroy, 33, of Colorado. After impact the pickup spun out of control and block lanes of traffic.

EMS transported Pichoff to the Gove County Medical Center.&nbsp;Salazar Monroy was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

GOVE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8:30p.m. Friday in Gove County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Ford F150 driven by Stephen C.&nbsp;Pichoff, 43, Loveland, Co., was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Grainfield-Hoxie exit.The pickup rear-ended a 2003 Freightliner semi driven by Fredy Salazar Monroy, 33, of Colorado. After impact the pickup spun out of control and block lanes of traffic.EMS transported Pichoff to the Gove County Medical Center.&nbsp;Salazar Monroy was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Driver hospitalized after pickup rear-ends semi on I-70

The fourth annual New Music Festival, presented by Fort Hays State University’s Department of Music and Theatre, will be held on Friday, Nov. 12, and Saturday, Nov. 13.

Comprised of FHSU music faculty who share a passion for the music of living composers, the New Music Ensemble commissions composers to bring new and exciting works to Hays. These composers in residence work with FHSU composition students and present a lecture to faculty, students, and community members. They also rehearse with the ensemble on a brand-new work to premiere at the festival.

“It’s exciting to have a work written specifically for our ensemble, and our audience members will be the first people in the world to hear it,” said Dr. Kristin Pisano, associate professor of music and director of the New Music Festival at FHSU.

Pisano said that past works commissioned by FHSU have since been performed at other universities and national conferences, bringing recognition to Fort Hays State and its music department.

This year’s composer in residence will be Dr. Stephen Andrew Taylor, a professor of composition at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He has composed&nbsp;Piranesi&nbsp;for flute and piano, his new work that will be premiered at the festival’s evening concert.

The culminating event of the festival, “An Evening of the Music of Dr. Stephen Andrew Taylor,” will begin at 7:30 p.m. Saturday in Sheridan Hall’s Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. A reception will follow in the lobby. Tickets are free to the public and will be available at the door or beforehand at the Hays Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, 2700 Vine.

The concert will feature other works by Taylor, including two works for viola and electronics, a duo for flute and clarinet, and a video installation set to the scenario “the spirit of the universe takes a journey.” Taylor will also perform an original piano composition.

Taylor&nbsp;composes music that explores boundaries between art and science. One work on the evening program is Solaria, a video created in collaboration with physicist Smitha Vishveshwara, who studies black holes.

Pisano said that Vishveshwara is passionate about the connections between science and art and that she and Taylor came up with this scenario “the spirit of the solar system takes a journey.”

“The 2021 New Music Festival will open the musical ears of the Hays community and provide the audience with a uniquely different musical experience,” Pisano said.

In addition to the concert, Taylor will give a lecture at 2:30 p.m. Friday in the university’s Malloy Hall 115. The lecture is free and open to the public.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634672143090.jpg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsThe fourth annual New Music Festival, presented by Fort Hays State University’s Department of Music and Theatre, will be held on Friday, Nov. 12, and Saturday, Nov. 13.Comprised of FHSU music faculty who share a passion for the music of living composers, the New Music Ensemble commissions composers to bring new and exciting works to Hays. These composers in residence work with FHSU composition students and present a lecture to faculty, students, and community members. They also rehearse with the ensemble on a brand-new work to premiere at the festival.“It’s exciting to have a work written specifically for our ensemble, and our audience members will be the first people in the world to hear it,” said Dr. Kristin Pisano, associate professor of music and director of the New Music Festival at FHSU.Pisano said that past works commissioned by FHSU have since been performed at other universities and national conferences, bringing recognition to Fort Hays State and its music department.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636064401022.jpeg" alt="Dr. Stephen Andrew Taylor, composer in residence for the 2021 FHSU New Music Festival. (Photo courtesy FHSU)" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Stephen Andrew Taylor, composer in residence for the 2021 FHSU New Music Festival. (Photo courtesy FHSU)</figcaption>
 </figure>This year’s composer in residence will be Dr. Stephen Andrew Taylor, a professor of composition at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He has composed&nbsp;Piranesi&nbsp;for flute and piano, his new work that will be premiered at the festival’s evening concert.The culminating event of the festival, “An Evening of the Music of Dr. Stephen Andrew Taylor,” will begin at 7:30 p.m. Saturday in Sheridan Hall’s Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center. A reception will follow in the lobby. Tickets are free to the public and will be available at the door or beforehand at the Hays Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, 2700 Vine.The concert will feature other works by Taylor, including two works for viola and electronics, a duo for flute and clarinet, and a video installation set to the scenario “the spirit of the universe takes a journey.” Taylor will also perform an original piano composition.Taylor&nbsp;composes music that explores boundaries between art and science. One work on the evening program is Solaria, a video created in collaboration with physicist Smitha Vishveshwara, who studies black holes.Pisano said that Vishveshwara is passionate about the connections between science and art and that she and Taylor came up with this scenario “the spirit of the solar system takes a journey.”“The 2021 New Music Festival will open the musical ears of the Hays community and provide the audience with a uniquely different musical experience,” Pisano said.In addition to the concert, Taylor will give a lecture at 2:30 p.m. Friday in the university’s Malloy Hall 115. The lecture is free and open to the public.

All invited to annual New Music Festival at Fort Hays State

According to a national study published by the American Medical Association last month, 65% of Kansas children have elevated levels of lead in their blood — 15 points higher than the national average.

There is no safe level of lead, per the Center for Disease Control.

Lead exposure, especially early in life, can lead to brain and nervous system damage, slow growth and development, and learning, behavior, hearing, and speech problems.

While we have made significant progress over the past 40 years in reducing lead exposure via government policies that work to eliminate it from gasoline, paint, plumbing, and consumer products, there is still much to be done. Many older homes in low-income areas, especially minority-populated urban areas, still have an abundance of lead in paint and plumbing.

Health concerns associated with lead exposure invoke thoughts of Flint, Michigan where, in the name of financial savings, the local and state governments failed to appropriately treat the water supply and it poisoned thousands of children. The city’s kids will never fully recover.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2ffa58eb-8af6-40de-95c5-e28942a8cc65">RELATED:&nbsp;Report allows Kan. residents to see their drinking water contaminants</a>

But we can work to prevent it from happening elsewhere.

Lead exposure via water isn’t only a concern in states like Michigan. It’s a problem right here in Kansas.

Kansas has some of the highest numbers of lead service lines in the country. Per the National Resources Defense Council, Kansas has the third highest number of lead pipes per capita. These pipes carry water into our homes and buildings that our children then drink.

Appropriate water treatment can prevent pipe corrosion. But once service lines begin to corrode, they carry lead into our drinking water. Water that has high acidity or low mineral content is especially corrosive to fixtures and pipes. This is exactly what happened in Flint.

There has long been a lack of political will to replace lead service lines. But after the Flint crisis, it has recently become a national priority under the Biden administration. The president’s infrastructure plan has proposed devoting $45 billion to replacing lead pipes, including the approximate 158,000 lead pipes in our state.

Research by Dan Slusky, a health economics expert and Associate Professor at the University of Kansas, studies the economic impact of lead exposure. His analysis concludes that the benefits of the infrastructure plan would justify the costs.

Cities across the country have recently faced lead-based public health crises. Are Kansas’ cities next?

If the past two years have shown us anything it’s that health is a community issue. It has also shown us that scientific truths are often dismissed for political reasons.

Government can protect rights, promote equality, and prevent historic injustice — but it often requires citizens to demand government use this power preventatively. A lead crisis would be too late for Kansas’ kids. No amount of exposure is safe.

But we can — and should — pressure Kansas’ congressional delegation to prioritize replacing lead pipes as part of the infrastructure plan. This is our chance to protect the health and wellbeing of Kansas’ kids.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD, is an assistant professor at&nbsp;Wichita State University's Department of Political Science.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377761670.jpeg" alt="Alexandra Middlewood, PhD, is an assistant professor at&nbsp;Wichita State University's Department of Political Science." />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood, PhD, is an assistant professor at&nbsp;Wichita State University's Department of Political Science.</figcaption>
 </figure>According to a national study published by the American Medical Association last month, 65% of Kansas children have elevated levels of lead in their blood — 15 points higher than the national average.There is no safe level of lead, per the Center for Disease Control.Lead exposure, especially early in life, can lead to brain and nervous system damage, slow growth and development, and learning, behavior, hearing, and speech problems.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>While we have made significant progress over the past 40 years in reducing lead exposure via government policies that work to eliminate it from gasoline, paint, plumbing, and consumer products, there is still much to be done. Many older homes in low-income areas, especially minority-populated urban areas, still have an abundance of lead in paint and plumbing.Health concerns associated with lead exposure invoke thoughts of Flint, Michigan where, in the name of financial savings, the local and state governments failed to appropriately treat the water supply and it poisoned thousands of children. The city’s kids will never fully recover.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2ffa58eb-8af6-40de-95c5-e28942a8cc65">RELATED:&nbsp;Report allows Kan. residents to see their drinking water contaminants</a>But we can work to prevent it from happening elsewhere.Lead exposure via water isn’t only a concern in states like Michigan. It’s a problem right here in Kansas.Kansas has some of the highest numbers of lead service lines in the country. Per the National Resources Defense Council, Kansas has the third highest number of lead pipes per capita. These pipes carry water into our homes and buildings that our children then drink.Appropriate water treatment can prevent pipe corrosion. But once service lines begin to corrode, they carry lead into our drinking water. Water that has high acidity or low mineral content is especially corrosive to fixtures and pipes. This is exactly what happened in Flint.There has long been a lack of political will to replace lead service lines. But after the Flint crisis, it has recently become a national priority under the Biden administration. The president’s infrastructure plan has proposed devoting $45 billion to replacing lead pipes, including the approximate 158,000 lead pipes in our state.Research by Dan Slusky, a health economics expert and Associate Professor at the University of Kansas, studies the economic impact of lead exposure. His analysis concludes that the benefits of the infrastructure plan would justify the costs.Cities across the country have recently faced lead-based public health crises. Are Kansas’ cities next?If the past two years have shown us anything it’s that health is a community issue. It has also shown us that scientific truths are often dismissed for political reasons.Government can protect rights, promote equality, and prevent historic injustice — but it often requires citizens to demand government use this power preventatively. A lead crisis would be too late for Kansas’ kids. No amount of exposure is safe.But we can — and should — pressure Kansas’ congressional delegation to prioritize replacing lead pipes as part of the infrastructure plan. This is our chance to protect the health and wellbeing of Kansas’ kids.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD, is an assistant professor at&nbsp;Wichita State University's Department of Political Science.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Time has come to get the lead out of Kan. water

I would like to take this opportunity to thank each of you who voted for me as Hays City Commissioner.&nbsp; I am humbled at your trust and confidence.&nbsp; As I look to our future, my commitment to doing the right thing for this community and its citizens at every opportunity stands strong.&nbsp;

There is much to be done as we continue to grow and prosper.&nbsp; I am proud to be able to bring transparent thinking, focused use of resources and the ability to listen to all sides, making&nbsp; decisions based on economic impact, as well as quality of life influence.

&nbsp;I am proud to serve another term as your Hays City Commissioner.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636142089845.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>I would like to take this opportunity to thank each of you who voted for me as Hays City Commissioner.&nbsp; I am humbled at your trust and confidence.&nbsp; As I look to our future, my commitment to doing the right thing for this community and its citizens at every opportunity stands strong.&nbsp;There is much to be done as we continue to grow and prosper.&nbsp; I am proud to be able to bring transparent thinking, focused use of resources and the ability to listen to all sides, making&nbsp; decisions based on economic impact, as well as quality of life influence.&nbsp;I am proud to serve another term as your Hays City Commissioner.Sincerely, Sandy Jacobs

Update: 2 hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash on U.S. 183 near Hays

The TMP-Marian Monarchs travel to Hoisington for a matchup with the Cardinals in the regional round of the 2A playoffs.&nbsp;

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/320618">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 travel to Hoisington for a matchup with the Cardinals in the regional round of the 2A playoffs.&nbsp;Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/320618">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.Kickoff set for 7 p.m.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/320618?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏈🎥 WATCH LIVE Thomas More Prep-Marian at Hoisington

The Hays High Indians travel to Andover Friday night for matchup with the Trojans in the regional round of the 5A playoffs.&nbsp;

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/320617">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The Hays High Indians travel to Andover Friday night for matchup with the Trojans in the regional round of the 5A playoffs.&nbsp;Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/320617">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.Kickoff set for 7 p.m.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/320617?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏈🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays High at Andover

The Kansas Geological Survey reported five earthquakes in northwest Kansas since Wednesday.

The largest was a 3.0-magnitude quake in western Rooks County just after 5 a.m. Wednesday. Just after 3:30 a.m. Thursday, a 2.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded in northeast Trego County.

Between midnight Thursday and midnight Friday, three additional quakes between 2.2- and 2.4-magnitude were recorded — two in Osborne County and one on the Rooks/Osbourne county line.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636135816059.png" alt="KGS" />
 <figcaption>KGS</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Geological Survey reported five earthquakes in northwest Kansas since Wednesday.The largest was a 3.0-magnitude quake in western Rooks County just after 5 a.m. Wednesday. Just after 3:30 a.m. Thursday, a 2.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded in northeast Trego County.Between midnight Thursday and midnight Friday, three additional quakes between 2.2- and 2.4-magnitude were recorded — two in Osborne County and one on the Rooks/Osbourne county line.

Five small earthquakes in NW Kan. since Wednesday

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

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

As of Friday morning, HaysMed reported 14 COVID-19 inpatients, down from 15 on Wednesday.

The KDHE reported Friday 53 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 63 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,645 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 76 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636134150888.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.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Friday morning, HaysMed reported 14 COVID-19 inpatients, down from 15 on Wednesday.The KDHE reported Friday 53 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 63 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,645 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 76 coronavirus-related deaths.

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

Voters in Trego County Tuesday passed an $11.8 million bond to make improvements to Trego County-Lemke Memorial Hospital.

COVID, as well as an aging population, have exposed needs to expand and upgrade the facilities at the 25-bed critical access hospital in WaKeeney.

Critical areas of the hospital were not private, which made it difficult during COVID, said Tina Sells, director of nursing.

All of the hospital's inpatient rooms were based on double occupancy. The hospital couldn't utilize all of its capacity during COVID because of danger of virus transmission.

As was the case across the health care system, the hospital saw an increase in demand during the pandemic, Sells said. Normally many Trego County-Lemke patients would be transferred to larger hospitals, but those hospitals were not accepting patients because they were full. 

Trego County-Lemke saw an increase in its inpatient census as a result, Sells said.

The bond issue will include 17 private inpatient rooms with private bathrooms, individual room climate controls and zero-entry showers. The inpatient wing will also include two bariatric rooms and two negative air-flow rooms, which are used to control infectious disease.

The hospital's current emergency room has two beds, which are separated by a curtain, Sells said.

This has been problematic during COVID in terms of controlling infection and also does not afford patients much privacy. 

The bond will include two trauma rooms, two treatment rooms and an enclosed ambulance drop off. The improvements will include a separate ER entrance and waiting area. It will be designed to share staff with inpatient services.

Renovation will include a dedicated space for an outpatient specialty&nbsp; clinic. Sells said she was unsure what specialists the hospital will be able to attract. However, the hospital will be seeking doctors in such areas as pain management, minor surgery, cardiology, neurology and mental health. 

This would allow some patients in the hospital's service area to stay in WaKeeney for treatment.

As with many rural communities in Kansas, Trego County and the surrounding area has an aging population. The bond work includes the addition of four assisted living rooms with a new dining area and public restroom. Sells said this service is greatly needed in the area.

The hospital also sees many older patients who require rehabilitation after knee or hip surgeries. The bond includes an expanded physical and occupational therapy suite. This will include three private treatment rooms. The space now is an open format divided by curtains.

It also will include a small 12-by-16-foot hydrotherapy pool and four new treatment tables.

Other improvements will include remodeled clinic space for the hospital's new doctor, a private area for Senior Life Solutions, expanded lab to provide more private space for patients and new emergency room signage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636039429264.png" alt="An artist's rendering of what one of the new private inpatient rooms at Trego County-Lemke Memorial Hospital might look like. The community passed an $11.8 million bond Tuesday that will include 17 private inpatient rooms. Courtesy image " />
 <figcaption>An artist's rendering of what one of the new private inpatient rooms at Trego County-Lemke Memorial Hospital might look like. The community passed an $11.8 million bond Tuesday that will include 17 private inpatient rooms. Courtesy image </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostVoters in Trego County Tuesday passed an $11.8 million bond to make improvements to Trego County-Lemke Memorial Hospital.COVID, as well as an aging population, have exposed needs to expand and upgrade the facilities at the 25-bed critical access hospital in WaKeeney.Critical areas of the hospital were not private, which made it difficult during COVID, said Tina Sells, director of nursing.All of the hospital's inpatient rooms were based on double occupancy. The hospital couldn't utilize all of its capacity during COVID because of danger of virus transmission.As was the case across the health care system, the hospital saw an increase in demand during the pandemic, Sells said. Normally many Trego County-Lemke patients would be transferred to larger hospitals, but those hospitals were not accepting patients because they were full. Trego County-Lemke saw an increase in its inpatient census as a result, Sells said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636061836500.png" alt="The Trego County bond improvements will include an expanded physical and occupational therapy suite. Courtesy image " />
 <figcaption>The Trego County bond improvements will include an expanded physical and occupational therapy suite. Courtesy image </figcaption>
 </figure>The bond issue will include 17 private inpatient rooms with private bathrooms, individual room climate controls and zero-entry showers. The inpatient wing will also include two bariatric rooms and two negative air-flow rooms, which are used to control infectious disease.The hospital's current emergency room has two beds, which are separated by a curtain, Sells said.This has been problematic during COVID in terms of controlling infection and also does not afford patients much privacy. The bond will include two trauma rooms, two treatment rooms and an enclosed ambulance drop off. The improvements will include a separate ER entrance and waiting area. It will be designed to share staff with inpatient services.Renovation will include a dedicated space for an outpatient specialty&nbsp; clinic. Sells said she was unsure what specialists the hospital will be able to attract. However, the hospital will be seeking doctors in such areas as pain management, minor surgery, cardiology, neurology and mental health. This would allow some patients in the hospital's service area to stay in WaKeeney for treatment. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636061943681.png" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>As with many rural communities in Kansas, Trego County and the surrounding area has an aging population. The bond work includes the addition of four assisted living rooms with a new dining area and public restroom. Sells said this service is greatly needed in the area.The hospital also sees many older patients who require rehabilitation after knee or hip surgeries. The bond includes an expanded physical and occupational therapy suite. This will include three private treatment rooms. The space now is an open format divided by curtains.It also will include a small 12-by-16-foot hydrotherapy pool and four new treatment tables. Other improvements will include remodeled clinic space for the hospital's new doctor, a private area for Senior Life Solutions, expanded lab to provide more private space for patients and new emergency room signage.The community took advantage of historically low interest rates — about 2.5 percent — to save money on financing the improvements. The bond term is 25 years. It will cost the owner of a $100,000 home about $3.35 per month.Hospital officials hope to break ground toward the end of 2022. However, Sells said a projected completion date has yet to be set.She said no hospital operations will be closed during the renovations.Hospital officials said they would like to thank the community for their support of the bond and look forward to what they can offer with the new facilities.