Each August, Earth passes through a stream of dust and debris left behind by the Swift-Tuttle Comet, lighting up the sky with shooting stars.&nbsp;

The Kansas Wetland's Education Center will host its annual end-of-summer Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party on Friday, Aug. 13, from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Join Wetlands staff for this FREE, family-friendly event full of crafts, experiments, night hikes, and games.

This year’s environmental conditions are setting up to be perfect! The moon sets early this year, producing a dark sky, and the party date for this year's Kansas Wetlands Education Center Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party falls on a peak day, which could produce over 150 shooting star sightings per hour.

The FHSU Science and Mathematics Education Institute's inflatable planetarium will also be available for shows with guaranteed star-viewing! Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy s'mores while they kick back and enjoy the night sky.

The KWEC is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend along Kansas Highway 156 at Cheyenne Bottoms,&nbsp;592 NE K-156 HWY, Great Bend, KS 67530.

For more information, visit its website at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJFGAsRGoL0-2FbjeliW-2Fj2r2YDnlTx6Vg0L9zVsK5l6PtBOIHy_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2B3n6ghgn-2FlmFYO8jd6Ozq2p8HdA4sXNhTJToNLJQluQ8Q4RYkgNggiVM4s1IuSF2UKGEXEKdbpq5vK1L8iMVliSUdQDTk4seurefy0phPfgpOfB0Tehfi4oHM4WrrPVKBV69QNa4MBHTeTMPo8BVDnz9OY-2B90OTZXvxzezgFOCLRglX5RjbAyM7vZhjVn1pyBQY7jDsKke9gaMEc1bkB8t4GSN7v4GSzmNHqueR1ouZMt1AfbyDmYNmQyo4FMxjNW">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call 1-877-243-9268.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628105633102.jpeg" alt="Participants from the 2020 Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party show off their "out of this world" craft." />
 <figcaption>Participants from the 2020 Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party show off their "out of this world" craft.</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsEach August, Earth passes through a stream of dust and debris left behind by the Swift-Tuttle Comet, lighting up the sky with shooting stars.&nbsp;The Kansas Wetland's Education Center will host its annual end-of-summer Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party on Friday, Aug. 13, from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Join Wetlands staff for this FREE, family-friendly event full of crafts, experiments, night hikes, and games.This year’s environmental conditions are setting up to be perfect! The moon sets early this year, producing a dark sky, and the party date for this year's Kansas Wetlands Education Center Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party falls on a peak day, which could produce over 150 shooting star sightings per hour.The FHSU Science and Mathematics Education Institute's inflatable planetarium will also be available for shows with guaranteed star-viewing! Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy s'mores while they kick back and enjoy the night sky. The KWEC is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend along Kansas Highway 156 at Cheyenne Bottoms,&nbsp;592 NE K-156 HWY, Great Bend, KS 67530.For more information, visit its website at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJFGAsRGoL0-2FbjeliW-2Fj2r2YDnlTx6Vg0L9zVsK5l6PtBOIHy_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2B3n6ghgn-2FlmFYO8jd6Ozq2p8HdA4sXNhTJToNLJQluQ8Q4RYkgNggiVM4s1IuSF2UKGEXEKdbpq5vK1L8iMVliSUdQDTk4seurefy0phPfgpOfB0Tehfi4oHM4WrrPVKBV69QNa4MBHTeTMPo8BVDnz9OY-2B90OTZXvxzezgFOCLRglX5RjbAyM7vZhjVn1pyBQY7jDsKke9gaMEc1bkB8t4GSN7v4GSzmNHqueR1ouZMt1AfbyDmYNmQyo4FMxjNW">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call 1-877-243-9268.

Kansas Wetlands Education Center meteor shower watch party is Friday

Completing a thoughtful estate plan is an important task and a great gift to
those left behind. The opportunity to create your own legacy can actually be a
fun and fulfilling process. Anyone wanting to learn about estate planning or
charitable giving through estates is invited to attend either of two
presentations being given in Colby and Hays.

Bryan Clontz, founder and
president of Charitable Solutions, LLC, based in Jacksonville, Fla., will
enlighten and entertain as he discusses top trends in estate planning and
charitable giving during an 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. lunch in Colby and at a
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. dinner in Hays, both on Wednesday, Aug. 25. The Colby event
will be at the City Limits Convention Center, and the Hays dinner will be at
the Hilton Garden Inn.

Both events are sponsored by
the Dane G. Hansen Foundation in an effort to encourage northwest Kansas
residents to make a plan for not only their family, but also for their
communities.

There is no cost to attend, but
RSVP is required by Aug. 20. Register online at
<a href="https://danehansenfoundation.org/cf-event/">https://danehansenfoundation.org/cf-event/</a>.

Clontz is a charitable giving
consultant specializing in noncash assets, such as farm ground or real estate.
He has worked extensively with community foundations and authored a book called
Charitable Gifts of Noncash Assets, as well as the planned giving manual Just
Add Water. He has written a dozen articles in financial services and planned
giving journals and guest columns on charitable tax issues for Forbes.

In addition to the Hansen
Foundation, support for these events comes from the Heartland Community
Foundation, the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation, and the Greater
Salina Community Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577482783349.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HCFCompleting a thoughtful estate plan is an important task and a great gift to
those left behind. The opportunity to create your own legacy can actually be a
fun and fulfilling process. Anyone wanting to learn about estate planning or
charitable giving through estates is invited to attend either of two
presentations being given in Colby and Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628115164830.jpeg" alt="Bryan Clontz&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Bryan Clontz&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Bryan Clontz, founder and
president of Charitable Solutions, LLC, based in Jacksonville, Fla., will
enlighten and entertain as he discusses top trends in estate planning and
charitable giving during an 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. lunch in Colby and at a
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. dinner in Hays, both on Wednesday, Aug. 25. The Colby event
will be at the City Limits Convention Center, and the Hays dinner will be at
the Hilton Garden Inn.Both events are sponsored by
the Dane G. Hansen Foundation in an effort to encourage northwest Kansas
residents to make a plan for not only their family, but also for their
communities.There is no cost to attend, but
RSVP is required by Aug. 20. Register online at
<a href="https://danehansenfoundation.org/cf-event/">https://danehansenfoundation.org/cf-event/</a>.Clontz is a charitable giving
consultant specializing in noncash assets, such as farm ground or real estate.
He has worked extensively with community foundations and authored a book called
Charitable Gifts of Noncash Assets, as well as the planned giving manual Just
Add Water. He has written a dozen articles in financial services and planned
giving journals and guest columns on charitable tax issues for Forbes.In addition to the Hansen
Foundation, support for these events comes from the Heartland Community
Foundation, the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation, and the Greater
Salina Community Foundation.

Heartland foundation sponsors free estate planning, charitable giving session 

The Hays Symphony at Fort Hays State University kicks off its 2021/22 season with “Broadway Tonight,” a free outdoor pops concert featuring music from Broadway, at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, August 28, at the Downtown Pavilion.

Under the direction of FHSU professor of violin and orchestras Dr. Brian Buckstead, the symphony will perform selections from West Side Story, A Chorus Line, Hamilton, Wicked, Fiddler on the Roof, and other beloved Broadway musicals.

“We hope the Hays community will come out and join us for this light musical presentation,” said Buckstead. “The informal setting makes it perfect for a family outing.”

Concert refreshments will be sponsored by the Hays Symphony Guild.

The symphony’s 2021/2022 season this year features five more concerts in addition to the Broadway Pops concert.

On Sept. 25, nature-inspired works by the great American composers Philip Glass, Alan Hovhaness, and William Grant Still will be featured at the group’s&nbsp;Opening Gala&nbsp;in FHSU’s Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.

On Sunday, Oct. 31, Creepy Classics, a children’s Halloween concert, will thrill audience members of all ages with selections from&nbsp;Night on Bald Mountain,&nbsp;In the Hall of the Mountain King,&nbsp;Harry Potter,&nbsp;Psycho, and more.&nbsp;

New this year is the Symphony’s Holiday Pops Concert on Dec. 4, featuring favorite music of the season. Tchaikovsky’s&nbsp;Nutcracker Suite, music from&nbsp;A Charlie Brown Christmas, and a Christmas Carol sing-along are just a few of the treats in store for December.

On Feb. 19, Dr. Buckstead puts down the baton and picks up his violin for a reimagining of Vivaldi’sFour Seasons, as well as three other works that reinterpret the music and musical style of the past.

The final Masterworks Concert of the season will be May 1. FHSU choirs, under the direction of Dr. Terry Crull, join the symphony in performing French composer Francis Poulenc’s beautiful&nbsp;Gloria.&nbsp;The symphony winds up the season with Hector Berlioz’s rambunctious and revolutionary&nbsp;Symphonie Fantastique.&nbsp;

Founded in 1914, the Hays Symphony Orchestra is the longest continuously running orchestra in the state of Kansas. As a joint community-university ensemble affiliated with Fort Hays State University, its approximate 60 musicians include FHSU students and faculty, Hays area volunteers, and guest musicians from throughout Kansas. All Hays Symphony concerts are offered free of charge to the whole community. For additional information about the 2021/22 concert season, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hayssymphony.org/">www.hayssymphony.org</a>. or the group’s Facebook page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627923799480.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseThe Hays Symphony at Fort Hays State University kicks off its 2021/22 season with “Broadway Tonight,” a free outdoor pops concert featuring music from Broadway, at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, August 28, at the Downtown Pavilion.Under the direction of FHSU professor of violin and orchestras Dr. Brian Buckstead, the symphony will perform selections from West Side Story, A Chorus Line, Hamilton, Wicked, Fiddler on the Roof, and other beloved Broadway musicals.“We hope the Hays community will come out and join us for this light musical presentation,” said Buckstead. “The informal setting makes it perfect for a family outing.”Concert refreshments will be sponsored by the Hays Symphony Guild.The symphony’s 2021/2022 season this year features five more concerts in addition to the Broadway Pops concert.On Sept. 25, nature-inspired works by the great American composers Philip Glass, Alan Hovhaness, and William Grant Still will be featured at the group’s&nbsp;Opening Gala&nbsp;in FHSU’s Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center.On Sunday, Oct. 31, Creepy Classics, a children’s Halloween concert, will thrill audience members of all ages with selections from&nbsp;Night on Bald Mountain,&nbsp;In the Hall of the Mountain King,&nbsp;Harry Potter,&nbsp;Psycho, and more.&nbsp;New this year is the Symphony’s Holiday Pops Concert on Dec. 4, featuring favorite music of the season. Tchaikovsky’s&nbsp;Nutcracker Suite, music from&nbsp;A Charlie Brown Christmas, and a Christmas Carol sing-along are just a few of the treats in store for December.On Feb. 19, Dr. Buckstead puts down the baton and picks up his violin for a reimagining of Vivaldi’sFour Seasons, as well as three other works that reinterpret the music and musical style of the past.The final Masterworks Concert of the season will be May 1. FHSU choirs, under the direction of Dr. Terry Crull, join the symphony in performing French composer Francis Poulenc’s beautiful&nbsp;Gloria.&nbsp;The symphony winds up the season with Hector Berlioz’s rambunctious and revolutionary&nbsp;Symphonie Fantastique.&nbsp;Founded in 1914, the Hays Symphony Orchestra is the longest continuously running orchestra in the state of Kansas. As a joint community-university ensemble affiliated with Fort Hays State University, its approximate 60 musicians include FHSU students and faculty, Hays area volunteers, and guest musicians from throughout Kansas. All Hays Symphony concerts are offered free of charge to the whole community. For additional information about the 2021/22 concert season, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hayssymphony.org/">www.hayssymphony.org</a>. or the group’s Facebook page.

Hays Symphony kicks off season with Broadway pops under the Pavilion

Three-day weather outlook

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

With all five Hays city commissioners present at Thursday night’s work session, they were able to reach a consensus regarding city
funding next year for the Downtown Hays Development Corp.

Shaun Musil, who was absent from the last meeting, agreed
with Mayor Sandy Jacobs and Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder that $54,000 should be allotted to
the nonprofit group as requested in the 2022 budget.&nbsp;

“There’ve been multiple
businesses talk to me [saying] it’s not fair that we give downtown money and we don’t
do something up there [near the interstate]. Well, if they do something that brings more people to
town, it’s more bang for the buck for us," Musil said. "So why not support them, if we can? You're bringing people to Hays. It's a win-win for Hays.”

Musil owns the
Paisley Pear and Wine Bistro in downtown Hays, but noted his business does not
receive any funding from DHDC.

"When we've researched the people who actually come to downtown Hays, not only from northwest Kansas, but all across the country, it's just amazing to see the amount of people ...," said Ruder. "I don't see how this money doesn't come back to us."

The city's general fund is primarily sourced from the city sales tax.

Commissioner Ron Mellick remained opposed to funding DHDC.&nbsp;

“It still needs to be funded by the DHDC," Mellick insisted. 

He's also heard from other local business owners.

"Don’t
be surprised if in the future you have other businesses that band together and
come to you and say we’d like to have $10,000 to promote our businesses and
fill our empty spaces," Mellick said.&nbsp;

Michael Berges&nbsp;was also opposed to the request because DHDC did not follow the city's budget process, he said.

"We rounded up their 2021 request to $54,000. ... We were able to do that by cutting another outside agency that wanted funding, with the guidance to come with a five percent cut this year. ... In my sense of it, you're requesting an increase," Berges said.

"It's not about defunding or getting rid of DHDC," he said. "The guidance wasn't followed."

Jacobs noted DHDC funding from private sources has steadily increased the past five years, on track to be more than $40,000 this year.

While discussing other changes to the draft budget, Musil asked for full funding of the $15,000 request from the Hays Arts Council, up from $12,000 in 2021. The other commissioners agreed.

The total amount of city funding requested by outside agencies for 2022 is $482,899, an increase of $36,399 from 2021.

About 15 DHDC supporters, including board members and downtown merchants, were in the commission chambers but no one asked to speak.

Commissioners will review the draft budget one more time
before the Sept. 9 public hearing.

In other business, Jeff Crispin, water resources director, presented plans for the 2021 manhole rehabilitation project.&nbsp;

With the low bid from Mayer Specialty Services, Wichita, being considerably lower than anticipated,&nbsp; Crispin suggested adding&nbsp; more manholes to the project.

Prior to the start of the work session, Mayor Jacobs read a proclamation marking the 10th anniversary of the downing of Extortion 17 on Aug. 6, 2011.&nbsp;

The Chinook military helicopter, piloted by former Hays residents Brian Nichols and Dave Carter, was shot down in Afghanistan by the Taliban.

All 38 people on board and a military K-9 were killed.&nbsp;

It was the deadliest day in the history of naval special warfare in the U.S. war in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628248818650.jpeg" alt="Board members, merchants and other supporters of the Downtown Hays Development Corp. listen to discussion by the city commission Thursday about city funding for the nonprofit group in the 2022 budget. " />
 <figcaption>Board members, merchants and other supporters of the Downtown Hays Development Corp. listen to discussion by the city commission Thursday about city funding for the nonprofit group in the 2022 budget. </figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostWith all five Hays city commissioners present at Thursday night’s work session, they were able to reach a consensus regarding city
funding next year for the Downtown Hays Development Corp.Shaun Musil, who was absent from the last meeting, agreed
with Mayor Sandy Jacobs and Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder that $54,000 should be allotted to
the nonprofit group as requested in the 2022 budget.&nbsp;“There’ve been multiple
businesses talk to me [saying] it’s not fair that we give downtown money and we don’t
do something up there [near the interstate]. Well, if they do something that brings more people to
town, it’s more bang for the buck for us," Musil said. "So why not support them, if we can? You're bringing people to Hays. It's a win-win for Hays.”Musil owns the
Paisley Pear and Wine Bistro in downtown Hays, but noted his business does not
receive any funding from DHDC."When we've researched the people who actually come to downtown Hays, not only from northwest Kansas, but all across the country, it's just amazing to see the amount of people ...," said Ruder. "I don't see how this money doesn't come back to us."The city's general fund is primarily sourced from the city sales tax.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0NyPDxyacio"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioner Ron Mellick remained opposed to funding DHDC.&nbsp;“It still needs to be funded by the DHDC," Mellick insisted. He's also heard from other local business owners."Don’t
be surprised if in the future you have other businesses that band together and
come to you and say we’d like to have $10,000 to promote our businesses and
fill our empty spaces," Mellick said.&nbsp;Michael Berges&nbsp;was also opposed to the request because DHDC did not follow the city's budget process, he said."We rounded up their 2021 request to $54,000. ... We were able to do that by cutting another outside agency that wanted funding, with the guidance to come with a five percent cut this year. ... In my sense of it, you're requesting an increase," Berges said."It's not about defunding or getting rid of DHDC," he said. "The guidance wasn't followed."Jacobs noted DHDC funding from private sources has steadily increased the past five years, on track to be more than $40,000 this year.While discussing other changes to the draft budget, Musil asked for full funding of the $15,000 request from the Hays Arts Council, up from $12,000 in 2021. The other commissioners agreed.The total amount of city funding requested by outside agencies for 2022 is $482,899, an increase of $36,399 from 2021.About 15 DHDC supporters, including board members and downtown merchants, were in the commission chambers but no one asked to speak.Commissioners will review the draft budget one more time
before the Sept. 9 public hearing.In other business, Jeff Crispin, water resources director, presented plans for the 2021 manhole rehabilitation project.&nbsp;With the low bid from Mayer Specialty Services, Wichita, being considerably lower than anticipated,&nbsp; Crispin suggested adding&nbsp; more manholes to the project.Prior to the start of the work session, Mayor Jacobs read a proclamation marking the 10th anniversary of the downing of Extortion 17 on Aug. 6, 2011.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628255871010.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Chinook military helicopter, piloted by former Hays residents Brian Nichols and Dave Carter, was shot down in Afghanistan by the Taliban.All 38 people on board and a military K-9 were killed.&nbsp;It was the deadliest day in the history of naval special warfare in the U.S. war in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

🎥 DHDC funding request remains intact in city's draft 2022 budget

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly will be in Hays on Tuesday as part of an Ellis County Democratic Party event.

Kelly is scheduled to speak from 5 to 6 p.m. Tuesday at "Sweet Time with the Dems" at the Downtoan Pavilion. A desert bar will be hosted by the Ellis County Democratic Party.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628276900594.png" alt="Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly will be in Hays on Tuesday as part of an Ellis County Democratic Party event.Kelly is scheduled to speak from 5 to 6 p.m. Tuesday at "Sweet Time with the Dems" at the Downtoan Pavilion. A desert bar will be hosted by the Ellis County Democratic Party.

Kansas governor scheduled to speak next week in Hays

Businesses and organizations in northwest Kansas can now apply for a spring 2022 or summer 2022 intern from Fort Hays State University through the FHSU/Dane G. Hansen Internship program.

A grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation made 25 paid internships possible for next spring and summer. Applications from employers will be accepted through Sept. 17.

Eligible employers must be located in the Hansen Foundation’s 26-county service area: the block of counties stretching from the Cheyenne-Wallace County area east to include the Republic-Saline County area, including Ellsworth County. However, students do not have to be from the northwest Kansas area to apply.

A participating employer invests $500 toward the student intern’s wages, and the remaining funding is provided by the Hansen Foundation grant. Each internship is for one semester or summer. Spring interns will work 240 total hours, and summer interns will work 300 total hours.

“We’re grateful for the Dane G. Hansen Foundation’s continued support of this program,” said Lisa Karlin, internship career advisor. “It provides employers access to new talent and allows students to gain professional work experience through internships.”

Interested employers should go to the Career Services page on the FHSU website at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtG5PucV5OyxhgJ0tnlB5qvSeVHTGbbIP-2B3deK9cQnLkt-2FHslK7jhKLG-2BZV4Ad4pXsZGYo2COHsq4fX3QO1d0XKo-3DltpT_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2Bkq49O8rmvsZfh4Ip53F7yTwzOj9Ax0f1vHezvju24lsZUkDClOgcECGRsCxaj7fmxz6ReuLMvNzuoOe-2B2C1inhJ8J7dWapTJhlpHrh3du46kQcBb24wxVcvhMCT7PC1EEHvILHGo2ati9XZ393XUjBtik6nEcLW0KBGxvmNLWVTP0CX3fiFvrlaBLm-2FPZYOHttgXgmZ8QnhCpmXSn7vklClDdCDoiX002ilpznW0dk0l-2FVLuQcp-2BKmVNon4alIZ3">fhsu.edu/career/employers/hansen-internship-program</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the program and complete the application. The employer must also provide a detailed job description for the internship.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628173263084.jpeg" alt="Employers must come from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation service area. Student applicants are not geographically restricted." />
 <figcaption>Employers must come from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation service area. Student applicants are not geographically restricted.</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsBusinesses and organizations in northwest Kansas can now apply for a spring 2022 or summer 2022 intern from Fort Hays State University through the FHSU/Dane G. Hansen Internship program.A grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation made 25 paid internships possible for next spring and summer. Applications from employers will be accepted through Sept. 17.Eligible employers must be located in the Hansen Foundation’s 26-county service area: the block of counties stretching from the Cheyenne-Wallace County area east to include the Republic-Saline County area, including Ellsworth County. However, students do not have to be from the northwest Kansas area to apply.A participating employer invests $500 toward the student intern’s wages, and the remaining funding is provided by the Hansen Foundation grant. Each internship is for one semester or summer. Spring interns will work 240 total hours, and summer interns will work 300 total hours.“We’re grateful for the Dane G. Hansen Foundation’s continued support of this program,” said Lisa Karlin, internship career advisor. “It provides employers access to new talent and allows students to gain professional work experience through internships.”Interested employers should go to the Career Services page on the FHSU website at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtG5PucV5OyxhgJ0tnlB5qvSeVHTGbbIP-2B3deK9cQnLkt-2FHslK7jhKLG-2BZV4Ad4pXsZGYo2COHsq4fX3QO1d0XKo-3DltpT_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2Bkq49O8rmvsZfh4Ip53F7yTwzOj9Ax0f1vHezvju24lsZUkDClOgcECGRsCxaj7fmxz6ReuLMvNzuoOe-2B2C1inhJ8J7dWapTJhlpHrh3du46kQcBb24wxVcvhMCT7PC1EEHvILHGo2ati9XZ393XUjBtik6nEcLW0KBGxvmNLWVTP0CX3fiFvrlaBLm-2FPZYOHttgXgmZ8QnhCpmXSn7vklClDdCDoiX002ilpznW0dk0l-2FVLuQcp-2BKmVNon4alIZ3">fhsu.edu/career/employers/hansen-internship-program</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the program and complete the application. The employer must also provide a detailed job description for the internship.

Employer applications open for Hansen interns from FHSU

Beginning at 7 a.m. Monday, Skyline Drive at the Willow Street intersection in Hays will be closed to traffic for pavement repairs. 

Repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the day on Friday . 

For more information, call the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621458723592.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning at 7 a.m. Monday, Skyline Drive at the Willow Street intersection in Hays will be closed to traffic for pavement repairs. Repairs are expected to be completed by the end of the day on Friday . For more information, call the Public Works Department at 785-628-7350.

Portion of Skyline Drive to close for pavement repairs

Thousands of Midwest Energy customers are without power after a early-evening storm blew through the Hays area.

Approximately 6,000 customers in Hays and the WaKeeney area were affected.

"Crews are currently working on restoration," Mike Morley of Midwest Energy said.

Click <a href="https://outageviewer.mwenergy.com/">HERE</a> for the latest on MWE power outage updates.

Thousands of Midwest Energy customers are without power after a early-evening storm blew through the Hays area.Approximately 6,000 customers in Hays and the WaKeeney area were affected."Crews are currently working on restoration," Mike Morley of Midwest Energy said.Click <a href="https://outageviewer.mwenergy.com/">HERE</a> for the latest on MWE power outage updates.

Thousands without power after Saturday storm

By DALE YOUNKER Natural Resources Conservation Service

Soil aggregates are groups of individual soil particles that bind to each other more strongly than adjacent particles. Aggregates that don’t fall apart and revert to individual soil particles, when are subject to disruptive forces like tillage, erosion, or even a rainfall event, are considered stable.

Aggregate stability is highly dependent on the biological activity in the soil. Certain fungal groups and other organisms, like bacteria and earthworms, secrete glue like substances that help hold soil particles together in aggregate sizes. These organisms rely on living plants, along with decomposing organic substances, for their food source. This is basically carbon, that plants take from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. During long fallow periods, where there are few, if any, growing plants, this carbon source can run low, and the soil biology begins to die off. Thus, not providing those organic glues need to form soil aggregates.

Stable soil aggregates provide the pore spaces needed for water to enter the soil when a rainfall event happens. On soils with poor aggregate stability the individual soil particles of sand, silt and clay break away from each other when water enters an aggregate. These soil particles then fill pore spaces and can form a crust on the soil surface. When the pore spaces are plugged with individual soil particles water will have difficulty infiltrating into the soil. When the next rainfall event occurs much of the water will run off, taking soil particles with it. At that point it really doesn’t matter how much rain we get since very little is getting into the soil. In dryland cropping systems this is a big deal because every drop of moisture counts. The more we can capture and store in the soil profile the better chance we have a growing a good, productive crop.

Good aggregate stability also helps in root development, which helps the plant take up more water and nutrients. The soil is more resistant to wind and water erosion and allows for easier movement of air, water, nutrients and biota within the soil.

So how do we improve our soil aggregate stability? The simple answer is to reduce tillage and keep plants growing in the soil for as long as possible. Tillage physically breaks down soil aggregates and disturbs the soil biology that secrete glues that hold soil particles together. Increasing the cropping intensity, with additional cash or cover crops, will provide the carbon source needed to keep the soil organisms alive and in turn providing the organic glues that are needed to form and maintain stable soil aggregates.

For more information about this or other soil health practices you can contact me at dale.younker@usda.gov or any local NRCS office.

Dale Younker is a soil health specialist with the&nbsp; USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Jetmore.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628093985082.jpeg" alt="Dale Younker" />
 <figcaption>Dale Younker</figcaption>
 </figure>By DALE YOUNKER Natural Resources Conservation ServiceSoil aggregates are groups of individual soil particles that bind to each other more strongly than adjacent particles. Aggregates that don’t fall apart and revert to individual soil particles, when are subject to disruptive forces like tillage, erosion, or even a rainfall event, are considered stable.Aggregate stability is highly dependent on the biological activity in the soil. Certain fungal groups and other organisms, like bacteria and earthworms, secrete glue like substances that help hold soil particles together in aggregate sizes. These organisms rely on living plants, along with decomposing organic substances, for their food source. This is basically carbon, that plants take from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. During long fallow periods, where there are few, if any, growing plants, this carbon source can run low, and the soil biology begins to die off. Thus, not providing those organic glues need to form soil aggregates.Stable soil aggregates provide the pore spaces needed for water to enter the soil when a rainfall event happens. On soils with poor aggregate stability the individual soil particles of sand, silt and clay break away from each other when water enters an aggregate. These soil particles then fill pore spaces and can form a crust on the soil surface. When the pore spaces are plugged with individual soil particles water will have difficulty infiltrating into the soil. When the next rainfall event occurs much of the water will run off, taking soil particles with it. At that point it really doesn’t matter how much rain we get since very little is getting into the soil. In dryland cropping systems this is a big deal because every drop of moisture counts. The more we can capture and store in the soil profile the better chance we have a growing a good, productive crop.Good aggregate stability also helps in root development, which helps the plant take up more water and nutrients. The soil is more resistant to wind and water erosion and allows for easier movement of air, water, nutrients and biota within the soil.So how do we improve our soil aggregate stability? The simple answer is to reduce tillage and keep plants growing in the soil for as long as possible. Tillage physically breaks down soil aggregates and disturbs the soil biology that secrete glues that hold soil particles together. Increasing the cropping intensity, with additional cash or cover crops, will provide the carbon source needed to keep the soil organisms alive and in turn providing the organic glues that are needed to form and maintain stable soil aggregates.For more information about this or other soil health practices you can contact me at dale.younker@usda.gov or any local NRCS office.Dale Younker is a soil health specialist with the&nbsp; USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Jetmore.

YOUNKER: The importance of soil aggregate stability

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 11 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.&nbsp;

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

As of Friday, the University of Kansas Health System reported eight COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,822 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628276081016.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 11 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Friday, the University of Kansas Health System reported eight COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.Since reporting began, there have been 3,822 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 11 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis Co. since Wednesday

A slow, steady flow of people came to First Presbyterian Church, 2900 Hall, Thursday morning for the first day of the Backpack for Kids distribution.

During the first day, families that had previously signed up had the opportunity to receive backpacks filled with school supplies, along with hygiene items and hear about local services from organizations such as the Hays Public Library.

Ryan Cunningham, Hays, who attended the event with his daughters, was grateful for the service.

"It's awesome," Cunningham said. "It's a good thing, especially with everything that is going on. It's very nice to be able to come down and do something like this."

He said the program gave his children even more than just supplies but also a sense of excitement for the upcoming school year.

"It's a huge help," Cunningham said. "They did this last year as well, and the girls were so excited. It actually gets this little one excited for her first big school."

And he hopes that anyone in need takes advantage of the program during the second day of distribution.

"There are probably some people that don't know about this going on, but I hope they have a great turnout because they work so hard to getting this together," Cunningham said. "It's absolutely a godsend for some people."

Around 400 bags were prepared for the first day to accommodate those who signed up in advance.

"It's been a lot slower than in past years, but it's been a nice steady flow," said Laura Shoaff, First Call for Help project coordinator.

In previous years, she said lines would form outside the building, but signups were down this year.

However, she said there had been an increase in phone calls about the event's second day, leading her to believe Friday's distribution may draw a crowd.

"If they didn't get signed up by July 26, then they can come tomorrow from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.," Shoaff said. "As long as they live in Ellis County and they go to school in Ellis County, they can also sign up to get a backpack that day."

She said they plan on distributing at least 200 more backpacks Friday.

"They will just come in and register at the front door and we will send them on to whatever grade of backpack that they need to be looking for," Shoaff said.

Backpacks not distributed will then be made available later.

"And then we will also have the backpacks that are leftover at First Call for Help," she said. "So if they are not able to come in (Thursday) or (Friday,) they can always give us a call and come by and pick one up then."

Making this year's event possible, Shoaff said they received numerous donations, as well as a $1,5000 grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield Foundation.

"They helped pay for all of the shampoo and soap that will be going into the hygiene bags," she said.&nbsp;

Delta Dental also provided dental kits that were distributed to each participant.

"Every person that comes through here will get a hygiene bag to start the school year off with," she said.

While everyone on Thursday received extra items like the hygiene kits, Friday's distribution will be first come-first served until items run out.

But she said even those supplies can be found after the event if needed.

"They can always stop in First Call for Help next week and we can help get them those supplies too," Shoaff said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628214620419.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostA slow, steady flow of people came to First Presbyterian Church, 2900 Hall, Thursday morning for the first day of the Backpack for Kids distribution.During the first day, families that had previously signed up had the opportunity to receive backpacks filled with school supplies, along with hygiene items and hear about local services from organizations such as the Hays Public Library.Ryan Cunningham, Hays, who attended the event with his daughters, was grateful for the service."It's awesome," Cunningham said. "It's a good thing, especially with everything that is going on. It's very nice to be able to come down and do something like this."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628214582877.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>He said the program gave his children even more than just supplies but also a sense of excitement for the upcoming school year."It's a huge help," Cunningham said. "They did this last year as well, and the girls were so excited. It actually gets this little one excited for her first big school."And he hopes that anyone in need takes advantage of the program during the second day of distribution."There are probably some people that don't know about this going on, but I hope they have a great turnout because they work so hard to getting this together," Cunningham said. "It's absolutely a godsend for some people."Around 400 bags were prepared for the first day to accommodate those who signed up in advance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628214657495.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"It's been a lot slower than in past years, but it's been a nice steady flow," said Laura Shoaff, First Call for Help project coordinator.In previous years, she said lines would form outside the building, but signups were down this year.However, she said there had been an increase in phone calls about the event's second day, leading her to believe Friday's distribution may draw a crowd."If they didn't get signed up by July 26, then they can come tomorrow from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.," Shoaff said. "As long as they live in Ellis County and they go to school in Ellis County, they can also sign up to get a backpack that day."She said they plan on distributing at least 200 more backpacks Friday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628214795507.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"They will just come in and register at the front door and we will send them on to whatever grade of backpack that they need to be looking for," Shoaff said.Backpacks not distributed will then be made available later."And then we will also have the backpacks that are leftover at First Call for Help," she said. "So if they are not able to come in (Thursday) or (Friday,) they can always give us a call and come by and pick one up then."Making this year's event possible, Shoaff said they received numerous donations, as well as a $1,5000 grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield Foundation."They helped pay for all of the shampoo and soap that will be going into the hygiene bags," she said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628214840399.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Delta Dental also provided dental kits that were distributed to each participant."Every person that comes through here will get a hygiene bag to start the school year off with," she said.While everyone on Thursday received extra items like the hygiene kits, Friday's distribution will be first come-first served until items run out.But she said even those supplies can be found after the event if needed."They can always stop in First Call for Help next week and we can help get them those supplies too," Shoaff said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628214949353.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Backpack for Kids wraps up giving event Friday

The Kansas Department of Transportation announced it has awarded a contract for the first phase of construction on K-383 in Phillips County. Construction is expected to begin later this year.

KDOT approved the $11.8 million bid from Venture of Corporation of Great Bend during its June letting.

The 26-mile corridor from the east U.S. 36 junction in Norton County to the U.S. 183 junction in Phillips County was selected in 2011 as a modernization project under KDOT’s T-WORKS transportation program. KDOT has split the project into three separate phases for construction. The phases include:

Construction on Phase I is scheduled to begin in November and involves reconstructing and widening the highway on existing alignment. Project work also includes flattening sections of hills to improve motorist visibility and adding 6-foot paved shoulders. This portion will be closed for construction starting in March 2022 and a state route detour will be in effect. Further information regarding the closure points and detour will be issued nearer to the closure date.

Phase II is expected to be let for bidding in 2022 for construction in 2023. Project work will require the highway to be closed during construction.

Phase III is currently still under development. KDOT presented three different design alternatives for public review and feedback earlier this year. During the review period, more than 800 individuals visited the project website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k383almenatolongisland.com/">www.k383almenatolongisland.com</a>, and provided 120 comments. KDOT plans to host a public meeting this fall to present the Phase III design concept and answer questions regarding the project.

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation announced it has awarded a contract for the first phase of construction on K-383 in Phillips County. Construction is expected to begin later this year.KDOT approved the $11.8 million bid from Venture of Corporation of Great Bend during its June letting.The 26-mile corridor from the east U.S. 36 junction in Norton County to the U.S. 183 junction in Phillips County was selected in 2011 as a modernization project under KDOT’s T-WORKS transportation program. KDOT has split the project into three separate phases for construction. The phases include:<ul>
 <li>Phase I: Phillips County portion of approximately 6 miles starting 2 miles east of Long Island and ending at the U.S. 183 junction.</li><li>Phase II: Norton County portion of approximately 6 miles starting at the east U.S. 36 junction and ending near Almena.</li><li>Phase III: The 14-mile portion from Almena to 2 miles east of Long Island.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Construction on Phase I is scheduled to begin in November and involves reconstructing and widening the highway on existing alignment. Project work also includes flattening sections of hills to improve motorist visibility and adding 6-foot paved shoulders. This portion will be closed for construction starting in March 2022 and a state route detour will be in effect. Further information regarding the closure points and detour will be issued nearer to the closure date.Phase II is expected to be let for bidding in 2022 for construction in 2023. Project work will require the highway to be closed during construction.Phase III is currently still under development. KDOT presented three different design alternatives for public review and feedback earlier this year. During the review period, more than 800 individuals visited the project website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k383almenatolongisland.com/">www.k383almenatolongisland.com</a>, and provided 120 comments. KDOT plans to host a public meeting this fall to present the Phase III design concept and answer questions regarding the project.

Contractor approved for Phase I of K-383; construction starts this year

Although the start of classes for the new school year is just around the corner, there are plenty of summer activities and events to enjoy this month in Hays.

Melissa Dixon, Convention and Visitors Bureau exec. dir., has some of the highlights.

For an up-to-the-minute list of activities in Hays, check the <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">CVB calendar of events</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575300742886.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostAlthough the start of classes for the new school year is just around the corner, there are plenty of summer activities and events to enjoy this month in Hays.Melissa Dixon, Convention and Visitors Bureau exec. dir., has some of the highlights.<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_euQ0SsDeEk"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628111867853.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For an up-to-the-minute list of activities in Hays, check the <a href="https://www.visithays.com/calendar.aspx">CVB calendar of events</a>.&nbsp;

🎥 Community events in Hays during August 

Shiny red tomatoes and fresh green beans are showing up at farmer’s markets, reminding us that it is time to get the canner out of the cupboard.&nbsp; Common questions at this time of year at the Extension Office relate to the recommended canning practices.&nbsp; Whether you are canning for the first time or have years of experience, it is a good idea to reinforce correct procedures. &nbsp; &nbsp;

K-State Research and Extension has provided hands-on food preservation workshops in the past.&nbsp; We learned how to dry fruit and herbs, can carrots and salsa and made jelly a couple of different ways.&nbsp; Care was taken to follow food safety practices with all of the recipes we prepared.&nbsp; The book “So Easy to Preserve” from the University of Georgia, is a wonderful guide with question and answer sections at the end of each chapter. &nbsp;

People are always looking for shortcuts when food preservation is concerned.&nbsp; Unless food is preserved in some manner, it begins to spoil soon after it is harvested.&nbsp; This spoilage is caused by microorganisms; physical damage such as bruising, water loss, or punctures; or by chemical changes such as those caused by enzymes.&nbsp; Enzymes are the chemical substances in foods that help them to grow and mature.&nbsp; If the enzymes in fruits and vegetables are not inactivated, they continue to work after harvest, causing flavor and texture changes.&nbsp; Enzymes can be inactivated by blanching, which is a quick method when the food is held at boiling temperatures for a specified period of time.

Blanching is something many people want to skip, but I encourage them not to.&nbsp; Blanching just takes a few minutes.&nbsp; Once the food has been held in boiling water for a few minute, (usually less than 5) you will want to put it in ice water for the same number of minutes.&nbsp; It is an important step that should not be skipped.

Please note that some foods may be better suited for canning; others for freezing or drying.&nbsp; Consider how you would prefer to store your finished products, how much it will cost, and how your family will like the product. &nbsp;

Remember, we have several excellent publications available for specific vegetables and fruits you may want to preserve. You can access these resources by visiting the KSRE web site and clicking on the food link and then food preservation. As I was checking out some of the publications earlier this week, I noticed there are several publications that address home canning for special diets.

Remember, too, we have a testing device in each of our Cottonwood Extension offices to check the accuracy of your pressure canner gauge. A dial gauge can be checked in a matter of minutes, so give me a call the Great Bend office or Berny a call in Hays and we can set up a time to test your gauge.&nbsp;

Donna Krug is the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent and District Director for the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend Office. 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 Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent and District Director for the Cottonwood Extension District&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent and District Director for the Cottonwood Extension District&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Shiny red tomatoes and fresh green beans are showing up at farmer’s markets, reminding us that it is time to get the canner out of the cupboard.&nbsp; Common questions at this time of year at the Extension Office relate to the recommended canning practices.&nbsp; Whether you are canning for the first time or have years of experience, it is a good idea to reinforce correct procedures. &nbsp; &nbsp;K-State Research and Extension has provided hands-on food preservation workshops in the past.&nbsp; We learned how to dry fruit and herbs, can carrots and salsa and made jelly a couple of different ways.&nbsp; Care was taken to follow food safety practices with all of the recipes we prepared.&nbsp; The book “So Easy to Preserve” from the University of Georgia, is a wonderful guide with question and answer sections at the end of each chapter. &nbsp;People are always looking for shortcuts when food preservation is concerned.&nbsp; Unless food is preserved in some manner, it begins to spoil soon after it is harvested.&nbsp; This spoilage is caused by microorganisms; physical damage such as bruising, water loss, or punctures; or by chemical changes such as those caused by enzymes.&nbsp; Enzymes are the chemical substances in foods that help them to grow and mature.&nbsp; If the enzymes in fruits and vegetables are not inactivated, they continue to work after harvest, causing flavor and texture changes.&nbsp; Enzymes can be inactivated by blanching, which is a quick method when the food is held at boiling temperatures for a specified period of time.Blanching is something many people want to skip, but I encourage them not to.&nbsp; Blanching just takes a few minutes.&nbsp; Once the food has been held in boiling water for a few minute, (usually less than 5) you will want to put it in ice water for the same number of minutes.&nbsp; It is an important step that should not be skipped.Please note that some foods may be better suited for canning; others for freezing or drying.&nbsp; Consider how you would prefer to store your finished products, how much it will cost, and how your family will like the product. &nbsp;Remember, we have several excellent publications available for specific vegetables and fruits you may want to preserve. You can access these resources by visiting the KSRE web site and clicking on the food link and then food preservation. As I was checking out some of the publications earlier this week, I noticed there are several publications that address home canning for special diets.Remember, too, we have a testing device in each of our Cottonwood Extension offices to check the accuracy of your pressure canner gauge. A dial gauge can be checked in a matter of minutes, so give me a call the Great Bend office or Berny a call in Hays and we can set up a time to test your gauge.&nbsp;Donna Krug is the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent and District Director for the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend Office. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Food preservation is a hot topic

A police chase Sunday night that began in Hays ended with a DUI arrest after a winding chase through Ellis County.

At around 10:45 p.m., a Hays police corporal accompanied by an officer in training was traveling on the U.S. 183 Bypass, passing Frontier Park-West when a two-door red sedan passed the officers on the shoulder to the right at a high rate of speed, according to Brian Dawson, Hays deputy chief of police.

Along with the high rate of speed, the officers also noticed no license plate was affixed to the car.

When officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the suspect vehicle fled.

The officers pursued the vehicle as it traveled west on the U.S. 183 Bypass, swerving several times into the oncoming traffic lane.

The suspect then exited the highway toward Rome Road heading west.

The vehicle continued swerving in and out of his lane, turned south on 230th Avenue, then turned onto Old U.S. 40.

After another vehicle had to maneuver out of the way quickly, the pursuit was terminated "due to the reckless and dangerous driving of the sedan," Dawson said.

While the officers were not in full pursuit, they remained behind the vehicle as it continued traveling under the speed limit, turning onto 210th Avenue and then Vineyard Road.

While on Vineyard, dust from the suspect vehicle blocked the officers' view, and they lost sight of the vehicle, Dawson said.

A deputy with the Ellis County Sheriff's Office would find the vehicle abandoned in the 1100 block of Vineyard a short time later.

When the HPD officers arrived on the scene, a dog barking in a nearby field alerted them to the suspect's presence.

He was then located on his knees with his hands in the air and taken into custody.

Dawson said that the suspect was later identified as Eric William Kraft, 45, Damar, after giving a false name to the officers.

He also allegedly told officers his wife was driving the vehicle and had fled, but no one else was located during a search of the area.

It was later determined she was in Bunker Hill at the time of the incident, Dawson said.

The state of the interior of the vehicle also led officers to doubt the story.

"There were so many items inside the vehicle that another person could not have been inside the vehicle, other than the driver," Dawson said.

Kraft was arrested on suspicion of fleeing and eluding a law enforcement officer, interference with a law enforcement officer and driving under the influence.

Kraft has previous convictions for burglary, battery and aggravated battery, according to Kansas Department of Corrections online records.

By JAMES BELL Hays PostA police chase Sunday night that began in Hays ended with a DUI arrest after a winding chase through Ellis County.At around 10:45 p.m., a Hays police corporal accompanied by an officer in training was traveling on the U.S. 183 Bypass, passing Frontier Park-West when a two-door red sedan passed the officers on the shoulder to the right at a high rate of speed, according to Brian Dawson, Hays deputy chief of police.Along with the high rate of speed, the officers also noticed no license plate was affixed to the car.When officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the suspect vehicle fled.The officers pursued the vehicle as it traveled west on the U.S. 183 Bypass, swerving several times into the oncoming traffic lane.The suspect then exited the highway toward Rome Road heading west.The vehicle continued swerving in and out of his lane, turned south on 230th Avenue, then turned onto Old U.S. 40.After another vehicle had to maneuver out of the way quickly, the pursuit was terminated "due to the reckless and dangerous driving of the sedan," Dawson said.While the officers were not in full pursuit, they remained behind the vehicle as it continued traveling under the speed limit, turning onto 210th Avenue and then Vineyard Road.While on Vineyard, dust from the suspect vehicle blocked the officers' view, and they lost sight of the vehicle, Dawson said.A deputy with the Ellis County Sheriff's Office would find the vehicle abandoned in the 1100 block of Vineyard a short time later.When the HPD officers arrived on the scene, a dog barking in a nearby field alerted them to the suspect's presence.He was then located on his knees with his hands in the air and taken into custody.Dawson said that the suspect was later identified as Eric William Kraft, 45, Damar, after giving a false name to the officers.He also allegedly told officers his wife was driving the vehicle and had fled, but no one else was located during a search of the area.It was later determined she was in Bunker Hill at the time of the incident, Dawson said.The state of the interior of the vehicle also led officers to doubt the story."There were so many items inside the vehicle that another person could not have been inside the vehicle, other than the driver," Dawson said.Kraft was arrested on suspicion of fleeing and eluding a law enforcement officer, interference with a law enforcement officer and driving under the influence.Kraft has previous convictions for burglary, battery and aggravated battery, according to Kansas Department of Corrections online records.

Police chase from Hays into rural Ellis Co. nets DUI arrest

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced appointments to the following state boards and commissions.

Kansas Hispanic and Latino American Affairs Commission

The executive director of the commission may appoint, subject to the approval of the commission and the governor, technical advisors and assistants to develop, assist and cooperate with local Hispanic commissions.

The purpose of this task force is to study the following topics: provision of care for Kansas seniors who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other age-related mental health conditions; administration of antipsychotic medication to adult care home residents; safeguards to prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation of seniors in the state; adult care home surveys and fines; funding and implementation of the Senior Care Act; senior daycare resources in the state; and rebalancing of home and community-based services.&nbsp;

The purpose of this committee is to advise the director of purchases on issues surrounding the purchase of products and services provided by blind or disabled persons.&nbsp;

The purpose of this council is to monitor the delivery of 911 services, develop strategies for future enhancements to the 911 system and distribute available grant funds to Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs).&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611870404878.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced appointments to the following state boards and commissions.Kansas Hispanic and Latino American Affairs CommissionThe executive director of the commission may appoint, subject to the approval of the commission and the governor, technical advisors and assistants to develop, assist and cooperate with local Hispanic commissions.<ul>
 <li>Enrique Franz, Liberal</li>
 </ul>Kansas Senior Care Task ForceThe purpose of this task force is to study the following topics: provision of care for Kansas seniors who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other age-related mental health conditions; administration of antipsychotic medication to adult care home residents; safeguards to prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation of seniors in the state; adult care home surveys and fines; funding and implementation of the Senior Care Act; senior daycare resources in the state; and rebalancing of home and community-based services.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Haely Ordoyne, Clyde</li>
 </ul>State Use Law CommitteeThe purpose of this committee is to advise the director of purchases on issues surrounding the purchase of products and services provided by blind or disabled persons.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Representative Susan Concannon, Beloit</li><li>Senator Oletha Faust-Goudeau, Wichita (reappointment)</li><li>Robert Tabor, Lawrence (reappointment)</li>
 </ul>911 Coordinating CouncilThe purpose of this council is to monitor the delivery of 911 services, develop strategies for future enhancements to the 911 system and distribute available grant funds to Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs).&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Michael Ruffin, Lawrence</li><li>Scott Hilbrink, Colby</li>
 </ul>

Colby man appointed to 911 Coordinating Council by governor

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/08/05/phillips-county-jury-sticks-hog-producer-with-134000-judgment-in-rare-trespassing-case/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A Phillips County jury awarded two landowners a total of 
$134,000 in actual damages after a prominent Kansas hog producer 
illegally installed pipe on their property to transfer a mixture of 
urine and manure from a confined-animal facility so it could be sprayed 
on fields from irrigation pivots.

The judge has not determined punitive damages against defendant Terry Nelson, <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/05/25/sierra-club-blows-whistle-on-kdhe-plan-to-reform-hog-cafo-regulations/">who has operated a far-flung hog operation</a> based in Phillips County and suffered a colossal barn fire four years ago that killed thousands of pigs.

The Nelson family also has been at the center of years of legal 
conflict involving the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, 
Kansas Livestock Association and the Sierra Club regarding construction 
and operation of confined animal feeding operations, or CAFOs, in 
northcentral Kansas along the border with Nebraska.

Plaintiffs Laura Field as well as Rodney and Tonda Ross, who raise 
corn and soybeans on their farm, were awarded $65,000 each from Nelson 
for trespassing. That portion of the July 22 judgment was based on 
unauthorized placement of miles of underground pipe on the plaintiffs’ 
land.

In addition, the jury awarded plaintiffs $2,000 after concluding 
Nelson created a nuisance by allowing liquified waste sprayed on fields 
to drift onto neighboring property.

Cover photo courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/@diegosan?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Diego San</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/pig?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628174632593.png" alt="Kansas hog producers Terry Nelson and his daughter-in-law, Julia Nelson, lost a Phillips County jury trial in which two plaintiffs were awarded $134,000 in damages after the Nelsons trespassed on their land to install pipe used to carry hog waste to fields. (Screen capture/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas hog producers Terry Nelson and his daughter-in-law, Julia Nelson, lost a Phillips County jury trial in which two plaintiffs were awarded $134,000 in damages after the Nelsons trespassed on their land to install pipe used to carry hog waste to fields. (Screen capture/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/08/05/phillips-county-jury-sticks-hog-producer-with-134000-judgment-in-rare-trespassing-case/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A Phillips County jury awarded two landowners a total of 
$134,000 in actual damages after a prominent Kansas hog producer 
illegally installed pipe on their property to transfer a mixture of 
urine and manure from a confined-animal facility so it could be sprayed 
on fields from irrigation pivots.The judge has not determined punitive damages against defendant Terry Nelson, <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/05/25/sierra-club-blows-whistle-on-kdhe-plan-to-reform-hog-cafo-regulations/">who has operated a far-flung hog operation</a> based in Phillips County and suffered a colossal barn fire four years ago that killed thousands of pigs.The Nelson family also has been at the center of years of legal 
conflict involving the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, 
Kansas Livestock Association and the Sierra Club regarding construction 
and operation of confined animal feeding operations, or CAFOs, in 
northcentral Kansas along the border with Nebraska.Plaintiffs Laura Field as well as Rodney and Tonda Ross, who raise 
corn and soybeans on their farm, were awarded $65,000 each from Nelson 
for trespassing. That portion of the July 22 judgment was based on 
unauthorized placement of miles of underground pipe on the plaintiffs’ 
land.In addition, the jury awarded plaintiffs $2,000 after concluding 
Nelson created a nuisance by allowing liquified waste sprayed on fields 
to drift onto neighboring property.Cover photo courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/@diegosan?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Diego San</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/pig?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a>

Phillips Co. jury sticks hog producer with $134K judgment in rare trespassing case

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

STOCKTON — Dr. Shelbe Darnell of Plainville has purchased the former The Chiropractic Centers in Phillipsburg and Stockton.

Darnell, a Plainville native, already owned <a href="https://restorationhealthchiropractic.com/">Restoration Health and Chiropractic</a> in Plainville. She remodeled the family's garage to offer an office there.

This purchase is expanding her services under the Restoration Health name to the other two communities.

The&nbsp;Chiropractic Centers in Phillipsburg and Stockton were owned for many years by Drs. Dustin and Susan Cheney. They sold it to another chiropractor who sold the locations to Darnell.

Darnell, who has been a chiropractor since 2018, is spreading her time between the three locations.

She is in Phillipsburg, 875 Third, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

She is in Stockton, 504 Main, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays, and 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Thursdays.&nbsp;

She is available by appointment in Plainville, 805 S. Main, on Wednesdays.

Darnell said the clinics offer care close to home for many of her clients. She said she has patients in Phillipsburg who were driving as far as Kearney, Neb., for care. Some Plainville patients had been driving to Hays, and Stockton patients driving to Osborne.

Darnell performs regular chiropractic adjustments, but she also works muscles to relieve pain and increase time between adjustments.

"What I do that sets me apart from other chiropractors is I do a full exam and determine where exactly the pain is coming from," she said. "The majority of the time, I find that is muscle-related, so muscle tightness or hyper-mobility issues. Adhesions build up in the muscles. I do a lot of muscle work."

She uses sustained pressure to work the muscles out, she said. She usually spends 20 minutes with a patient, and most of that is doing the muscle work.

"Whenever I have a patient walk in the door, and they say, 'I hurt when I do this.' It's raising your arm. Before you walk out the door, I make sure raising your arm is easier to do. ... I make sure you have some type of relief before you leave," she said.

Darnell is just starting to draw labs, which are processed by Quest Diagnostics. She earned 300 hours credit outside of her chiropractic studies in functional medicine.

She also does a little bit of nutritional counseling and sells supplements through an online dispensary.

She doesn't perform Kansas Department of Transportation physicals, but she is hoping to offer those soon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628104523352.jpeg" alt="Dr. Shelbe Darnell of Restoration Health and Chiropractic, and her office assistant and friend Hannah, with their 1-year-old daughters Kollynns Gehring and Veronica Darnell. Both moms bring their daughters along with Darnell's son, Theodore, 2, to work daily. Darnell said her clients love to see the children playing in the office lobby." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Shelbe Darnell of Restoration Health and Chiropractic, and her office assistant and friend Hannah, with their 1-year-old daughters Kollynns Gehring and Veronica Darnell. Both moms bring their daughters along with Darnell's son, Theodore, 2, to work daily. Darnell said her clients love to see the children playing in the office lobby.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSTOCKTON — Dr. Shelbe Darnell of Plainville has purchased the former The Chiropractic Centers in Phillipsburg and Stockton.Darnell, a Plainville native, already owned <a href="https://restorationhealthchiropractic.com/">Restoration Health and Chiropractic</a> in Plainville. She remodeled the family's garage to offer an office there.This purchase is expanding her services under the Restoration Health name to the other two communities.The&nbsp;Chiropractic Centers in Phillipsburg and Stockton were owned for many years by Drs. Dustin and Susan Cheney. They sold it to another chiropractor who sold the locations to Darnell.Darnell, who has been a chiropractor since 2018, is spreading her time between the three locations.She is in Phillipsburg, 875 Third, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.She is in Stockton, 504 Main, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays, and 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Thursdays.&nbsp;She is available by appointment in Plainville, 805 S. Main, on Wednesdays.Darnell said the clinics offer care close to home for many of her clients. She said she has patients in Phillipsburg who were driving as far as Kearney, Neb., for care. Some Plainville patients had been driving to Hays, and Stockton patients driving to Osborne.Darnell performs regular chiropractic adjustments, but she also works muscles to relieve pain and increase time between adjustments."What I do that sets me apart from other chiropractors is I do a full exam and determine where exactly the pain is coming from," she said. "The majority of the time, I find that is muscle-related, so muscle tightness or hyper-mobility issues. Adhesions build up in the muscles. I do a lot of muscle work."She uses sustained pressure to work the muscles out, she said. She usually spends 20 minutes with a patient, and most of that is doing the muscle work."Whenever I have a patient walk in the door, and they say, 'I hurt when I do this.' It's raising your arm. Before you walk out the door, I make sure raising your arm is easier to do. ... I make sure you have some type of relief before you leave," she said.Darnell is just starting to draw labs, which are processed by Quest Diagnostics. She earned 300 hours credit outside of her chiropractic studies in functional medicine.She also does a little bit of nutritional counseling and sells supplements through an online dispensary.She doesn't perform Kansas Department of Transportation physicals, but she is hoping to offer those soon.She also hopes to add a massage therapist to the practices in Stockton and perhaps Phillipsburg.&nbsp;The clinics will bill Blue Cross Blue Shield and Medicare. She offers detailed bills so patients with other insurance can submit the bills to insurance themselves for reimbursement.You can call 785-261-1132 to make appointments at any of the three clinics. You can also follow the clinics on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RHchiropractic">Facebook</a> and Instagram.

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