Three-day weather outlook

Photos by James Bell and Cristina Janney/Hays Post

Patriotism was on display this weekend during the Wild West Festival in Hays.

After three nights of concerts, four days of carnival, a 5k and the Let Freedom Sing parade the annual event is set to conclude Sunday with a fireworks show scheduled to start at 10 p.m., south of Hays on the 183 Bypass and Golf Course Road.

<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">Thematic music will accompany the show provided by Eagle radio on Mix 103.3.</a>

Before heading to see the fireworks, take a look at some of this week's festivities below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625339358151.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Photos by James Bell and Cristina Janney/Hays PostPatriotism was on display this weekend during the Wild West Festival in Hays.After three nights of concerts, four days of carnival, a 5k and the Let Freedom Sing parade the annual event is set to conclude Sunday with a fireworks show scheduled to start at 10 p.m., south of Hays on the 183 Bypass and Golf Course Road.<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">Thematic music will accompany the show provided by Eagle radio on Mix 103.3.</a>Before heading to see the fireworks, take a look at some of this week's festivities below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625353666347.jpeg" alt="Shenandoah" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625354526190.jpeg" alt="Spirit dancer from Topeka who opened from BlackHawk" />
 <figcaption>Spirit dancer from Topeka who opened from BlackHawk</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625373846558.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;FireHouse" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625374208011.jpeg" alt="Paramont" />
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Wild West Festival set to wrap up with Fireworks Spectacular

2021 Update by Margie Hammerschmidt

In the southeast corner of the intersection of 13th and Fort, there is a small Pentagon-shaped garden bed. It lies nestled in front of the granite stones of the Veterans Memorial on the lawn of the Courthouse. This Red, White and Blue Memory Garden is a tribute to all those Ellis County citizens who lost their lives in service to our country while in the military. &nbsp;

In 2016, a small group of Ellis County Master Gardeners selected and planted perennial plants in the garden to follow the Red, White and Blue theme and to provide all season color. The garden was recently refurbished to revive its vigor.&nbsp;

White Immortality Irises are featured in the center of the garden. These irises are re-blooming, flowering in the Spring and again in late summer. Surrounding the iris bed is a circle of perennial salvia, ‘Victoria Blue’ and ‘May Night’ cultivars. Red Drift Roses spread into the front and rear corners. White Gaura was added this year.&nbsp;

Laying around the perimeter of the bed are several handcrafted concrete blocks inscribed with the name of the garden as well as the words “Planted with Gratitude and Respect”. &nbsp;

In acknowledgment of the US Gold Star Act, a gold-painted concrete star lies at the apex of this Red, White, and Blue Memory Garden. Golden Yarrow plants were added to the garden to accentuate the Gold Star. Some readers may be aware of the significance of the “Gold Star”. A&nbsp;Gold Star Lapel Button&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States">United States</a>&nbsp;is an official decoration authorized by an&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Act_of_Congress">Act of Congress</a>&nbsp;in 1947 that is issued to the direct&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Next_of_kin">next of kin</a>&nbsp;family members of&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_military">service members</a>&nbsp;who died in&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I">World War I</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_II">World War II</a>&nbsp;and subsequent armed hostilities in which the&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armed_Forces_of_the_United_States">Armed Forces of the United States</a>&nbsp;has been engaged.&nbsp;

Visiting the garden is particularly humbling during patriotic national holidays when volunteers from the VFW place one flag around the Veterans Memorial for each Ellis County resident who died serving in the military. One can’t help but feel sincere gratitude for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Additionally, we recognize the efforts given by volunteers today to maintain this memorial tribute. It is heart-warming to see that the volunteer spirit within Ellis County remains strong.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624908865328.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>2021 Update by Margie HammerschmidtIn the southeast corner of the intersection of 13th and Fort, there is a small Pentagon-shaped garden bed. It lies nestled in front of the granite stones of the Veterans Memorial on the lawn of the Courthouse. This Red, White and Blue Memory Garden is a tribute to all those Ellis County citizens who lost their lives in service to our country while in the military. &nbsp;In 2016, a small group of Ellis County Master Gardeners selected and planted perennial plants in the garden to follow the Red, White and Blue theme and to provide all season color. The garden was recently refurbished to revive its vigor.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614966296214.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>White Immortality Irises are featured in the center of the garden. These irises are re-blooming, flowering in the Spring and again in late summer. Surrounding the iris bed is a circle of perennial salvia, ‘Victoria Blue’ and ‘May Night’ cultivars. Red Drift Roses spread into the front and rear corners. White Gaura was added this year.&nbsp;Laying around the perimeter of the bed are several handcrafted concrete blocks inscribed with the name of the garden as well as the words “Planted with Gratitude and Respect”. &nbsp;In acknowledgment of the US Gold Star Act, a gold-painted concrete star lies at the apex of this Red, White, and Blue Memory Garden. Golden Yarrow plants were added to the garden to accentuate the Gold Star. Some readers may be aware of the significance of the “Gold Star”. A&nbsp;Gold Star Lapel Button&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States">United States</a>&nbsp;is an official decoration authorized by an&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Act_of_Congress">Act of Congress</a>&nbsp;in 1947 that is issued to the direct&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Next_of_kin">next of kin</a>&nbsp;family members of&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_military">service members</a>&nbsp;who died in&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I">World War I</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_II">World War II</a>&nbsp;and subsequent armed hostilities in which the&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armed_Forces_of_the_United_States">Armed Forces of the United States</a>&nbsp;has been engaged.&nbsp;Visiting the garden is particularly humbling during patriotic national holidays when volunteers from the VFW place one flag around the Veterans Memorial for each Ellis County resident who died serving in the military. One can’t help but feel sincere gratitude for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Additionally, we recognize the efforts given by volunteers today to maintain this memorial tribute. It is heart-warming to see that the volunteer spirit within Ellis County remains strong.

From the Ellis Co. Master Gardeners: Ellis Co. memory garden

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 8 traffic stops Thursday, June 24, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Animal At
Large—100 block W 16th St, Hays; 7:34 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--1200 block Hall St, Hays; 8:24 AM 
Sex Offense—200 block E 7th St, Hays; 10:42 AM 
Animal At Large--19th and Pine St, Hays; 11:13 AM 
Animal At Large--17th St and Volga Dr, Hays; 11:18 AM 
Found/Lost Property--200 block Skyline Ct, Hays; 12:06 PM 
Found/Lost Property--300 block W 37th St, Hays; 6:10 AM; 6/24 1:39
PM 
Miscellaneous Investigation—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 3:25 PM 
Aggravated Battery--200 block W 8th N Alley, Hays; 4:15 PM 
Welfare Check—2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 7:12 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 4/16 5 PM 
Civil Dispute—1300 block W 27th St, Hays; 8:35 PM 
Theft (general)—2500 block Vine St, Hays; 10:28 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Friday, June 25, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

MV
Accident-Hit and Run—200 block W 4th St, Hays; 6/24 7:45 PM; 6/25 1:40 AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 5:23 AM 
Drug Offenses—800 block Walnut St, Hays; 5:40 AM; 5:50 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—400 block W 15th St, Hays; 1/1 12 AM; 6/25 8 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—500 block W 15th St, Hays; 9:41 AM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 11:07 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2500 block Indian Trl, Hays; 12:10 PM 
Animal At Large—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 12:44 PM 
Shoplifting—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 1:15 PM 
Suspicious Activity—1900 block Gen Custer Rd, Hays; 6/20 12 AM; 6/25 8 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run--1600 block E 27th St, Hays; 3:09 PM 
Found/Lost Property—3600 block Vine St, Hays; 6:42 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 7:51 PM 
Criminal Trespass--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 6/24 7:24 PM; 6/25 7:50 PM 
Civil Dispute—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 8:28 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 18 traffic stops Saturday, June 26, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Battery –
simple—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 12:10 AM 
Intoxicated Subject—200 block W 12th St, Hays; 12:50 AM 
Disturbance – Noise—400 block W 5th St, Hays; 12:52 AM; 12:56 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:42 AM 
Animal At Large—500 block E 14th St, Hays; 8:08 AM 
Battery – Domestic—300 block E 25th St, Hays; 10:05 AM 
Suicidal Subject—500 block E 15th St, Hays; 11:03 AM 
Animal At Large—1500 block Tallgrass Dr, Hays; 11:20 AM 
Welfare Check—500 block E 16th St, Hays; 11:53 AM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—43400 block Vine St, Hays; 2:55 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—4100 block Vine St, Hays; 3:50 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—300 block E 25th St, Hays; 4:50 PM; 4:57 PM 
Theft (general)--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 6/25 10 PM; 6/26 5:59 PM 
Theft (general)—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 6:12 PM 
Battery – simple—100 block E 5th St, Hays; 8:57 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--400 block Oak St, Hays; 8:57 PM 
Civil Dispute—1700 block Elm St, Hays; 9:17 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:45 PM 
Drug Offenses—1400 block Oak St, Hays; 11:22 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 25 traffic stops Sunday, June 27, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence--500 block W 8th St, Hays; 2:19 AM 
Suspicious Activity—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 6:07 AM 
Burglary/residence—300 block E 15th St, Hays; 6/26 10:40 PM; 6/27 3 AM 
Animal At Large—600 block E 15th St, Hays; 11:01 AM 
Found/Lost Property—3800 block Vine St, Hays; 11:52 AM 
Theft (general)—1200 block E 27th St, Hays; 12:09 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--3300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:38 PM 
Harassment (All Other)--600 block E 15th St, Hays; 1:45 PM 
Animal At Large--5th and Fort, Hays; 2:04 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--600 block E 15th St, Hays; 2:05 PM 
Criminal Trespass--300 block Main St, Hays; 2:53 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—1300 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 3:08 PM 
Found/Lost Property—4300 block Vine St, Hays;3:09 PM 
Water Use Violation—1700 block Anthony Dr, Hays; 6 PM; 6:10 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 9:27 PM 
Civil Dispute—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 11:18 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 8 traffic stops Thursday, June 24, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Animal At
Large—100 block W 16th St, Hays; 7:34 AM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--1200 block Hall St, Hays; 8:24 AM 
Sex Offense—200 block E 7th St, Hays; 10:42 AM 
Animal At Large--19th and Pine St, Hays; 11:13 AM 
Animal At Large--17th St and Volga Dr, Hays; 11:18 AM 
Found/Lost Property--200 block Skyline Ct, Hays; 12:06 PM 
Found/Lost Property--300 block W 37th St, Hays; 6:10 AM; 6/24 1:39
PM 
Miscellaneous Investigation—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 3:25 PM 
Aggravated Battery--200 block W 8th N Alley, Hays; 4:15 PM 
Welfare Check—2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 7:12 PM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 4/16 5 PM 
Civil Dispute—1300 block W 27th St, Hays; 8:35 PM 
Theft (general)—2500 block Vine St, Hays; 10:28 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 4 animal calls and conducted 12 traffic stops Friday, June 25, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.MV
Accident-Hit and Run—200 block W 4th St, Hays; 6/24 7:45 PM; 6/25 1:40 AM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 5:23 AM 
Drug Offenses—800 block Walnut St, Hays; 5:40 AM; 5:50 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—400 block W 15th St, Hays; 1/1 12 AM; 6/25 8 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—500 block W 15th St, Hays; 9:41 AM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 11:07 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--2500 block Indian Trl, Hays; 12:10 PM 
Animal At Large—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 12:44 PM 
Shoplifting—2900 block Vine St, Hays; 1:15 PM 
Suspicious Activity—1900 block Gen Custer Rd, Hays; 6/20 12 AM; 6/25 8 AM 
MV Accident-Private Property-Hit and Run--1600 block E 27th St, Hays; 3:09 PM 
Found/Lost Property—3600 block Vine St, Hays; 6:42 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 7:51 PM 
Criminal Trespass--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 6/24 7:24 PM; 6/25 7:50 PM 
Civil Dispute—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 8:28 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 2 animal calls and conducted 18 traffic stops Saturday, June 26, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Battery –
simple—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 12:10 AM 
Intoxicated Subject—200 block W 12th St, Hays; 12:50 AM 
Disturbance – Noise—400 block W 5th St, Hays; 12:52 AM; 12:56 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block E 8th St, Hays; 2:42 AM 
Animal At Large—500 block E 14th St, Hays; 8:08 AM 
Battery – Domestic—300 block E 25th St, Hays; 10:05 AM 
Suicidal Subject—500 block E 15th St, Hays; 11:03 AM 
Animal At Large—1500 block Tallgrass Dr, Hays; 11:20 AM 
Welfare Check—500 block E 16th St, Hays; 11:53 AM 
Counterfeit currency/documents—43400 block Vine St, Hays; 2:55 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—4100 block Vine St, Hays; 3:50 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—300 block E 25th St, Hays; 4:50 PM; 4:57 PM 
Theft (general)--300 block W 7th St, Hays; 6/25 10 PM; 6/26 5:59 PM 
Theft (general)—1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 6:12 PM 
Battery – simple—100 block E 5th St, Hays; 8:57 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run--400 block Oak St, Hays; 8:57 PM 
Civil Dispute—1700 block Elm St, Hays; 9:17 PM 
Found/Lost Property—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:45 PM 
Drug Offenses—1400 block Oak St, Hays; 11:22 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 25 traffic stops Sunday, June 27, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence--500 block W 8th St, Hays; 2:19 AM 
Suspicious Activity—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 6:07 AM 
Burglary/residence—300 block E 15th St, Hays; 6/26 10:40 PM; 6/27 3 AM 
Animal At Large—600 block E 15th St, Hays; 11:01 AM 
Found/Lost Property—3800 block Vine St, Hays; 11:52 AM 
Theft (general)—1200 block E 27th St, Hays; 12:09 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--3300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:38 PM 
Harassment (All Other)--600 block E 15th St, Hays; 1:45 PM 
Animal At Large--5th and Fort, Hays; 2:04 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle--600 block E 15th St, Hays; 2:05 PM 
Criminal Trespass--300 block Main St, Hays; 2:53 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property—1300 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 3:08 PM 
Found/Lost Property—4300 block Vine St, Hays;3:09 PM 
Water Use Violation—1700 block Anthony Dr, Hays; 6 PM; 6:10 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 9:27 PM 
Civil Dispute—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 11:18 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
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Hays PD Activity Log, June 24-27

PHILLIPS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Saturday in Phillips County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Toyota Tacoma driven by Derick D. Coomes, 26, Kensington, was southbound on East 600 Road just north of East Kiowa Road.

The pickup struck a 2002 Dodge Ram driven by Cody A. L. Massey, 19, Phillipsburg, and a 2007 Jeep Compass driven by Brittany A. King, 22, Phillipsburg, who were both stopped in the roadway exchanging an item.

EMS transported King to the hospital in Phllipsburg for treatment of a minor injury. Coomes, Massey and 3 passengers in the Jeep were not injured. Coomes was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

PHILLIPS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Saturday in Phillips County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Toyota Tacoma driven by Derick D. Coomes, 26, Kensington, was southbound on East 600 Road just north of East Kiowa Road.The pickup struck a 2002 Dodge Ram driven by Cody A. L. Massey, 19, Phillipsburg, and a 2007 Jeep Compass driven by Brittany A. King, 22, Phillipsburg, who were both stopped in the roadway exchanging an item.EMS transported King to the hospital in Phllipsburg for treatment of a minor injury. Coomes, Massey and 3 passengers in the Jeep were not injured. Coomes was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Phillipsburg woman injured after 3-vehicle crash

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

With multiple rain delays slowing the progress of wheat harvest, some areas of the state may experience sooty molds and possibly even grain with a discoloration known as black point. Black point can occur due to repeated rainfalls received during harvest season. Both of these problems are caused by molds that grow on the mature wheat.

These molds are normally not aggressive pathogens in wheat, but they can rapidly colonize mature plants. These diseases are most problematic when rain re-wets mature plants and causes harvest delays. The sooty molds are often a cosmetic problem because the mold growth is very superficial on the chaff and glumes. The sooty molds can make for a dusty harvest, however. If the timing of the rain coincides with the late stages of kernel development, the molds can begin to colonize the outer layers of the wheat kernel, resulting in a gray-black discoloration called black point. Commonly, the embryo end of the kernel is most discolored, but entire kernels can become gray or black as a result of the black point.

There is no management of these diseases at this time. The fungi that cause black point can cause problems with germination and reduce seedling vigor. Therefore, seed lots with symptoms of black point should be tested for germination. If black point is causing germination problems, fungicide seed treatments can often improve the germination and ensure good stand establishment.

Sooty head molds are characterized by a dark green or black mold growth on the surface of mature wheat heads. These molds are part of a naturally occurring complex of organisms that help to decay dead plant debris. Sooty molds are most common when mature wheat is subjected to repeated rains and delayed harvest. This disease also may affect plants that have been damaged by root rot.

The sooty head mold growth is normally superficial. Its affect on grain is thought to be minor, but it can make for dusty harvest operations. Sooty molds can contribute to a discoloration of the grain called "black point."

Management - generally impractical or not needed.

Why this year? This disease has been showing up in wheat fields throughout the area due to frequent rainfall events and high humidity. It is also more likely to show up in fields with damaged tissue, such as hail damage or damage from cold temperatures. Many times the dust from the combine is a darker, blacker color when harvesting wheat with this disease on the head.

Save it for seed? Even though this disease is a secondary infection, I would look closely at this seed when deciding whether to save it for seed. There potentially could be other things going on earlier in the year that may have affected the seed quality, creating shriveled seed. Also, the frequent rainfall this harvest may have affected the test weight. These things would contribute to decreased emergence and seedling vigor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625155975876.jpeg" alt="K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictWith multiple rain delays slowing the progress of wheat harvest, some areas of the state may experience sooty molds and possibly even grain with a discoloration known as black point. Black point can occur due to repeated rainfalls received during harvest season. Both of these problems are caused by molds that grow on the mature wheat.These molds are normally not aggressive pathogens in wheat, but they can rapidly colonize mature plants. These diseases are most problematic when rain re-wets mature plants and causes harvest delays. The sooty molds are often a cosmetic problem because the mold growth is very superficial on the chaff and glumes. The sooty molds can make for a dusty harvest, however. If the timing of the rain coincides with the late stages of kernel development, the molds can begin to colonize the outer layers of the wheat kernel, resulting in a gray-black discoloration called black point. Commonly, the embryo end of the kernel is most discolored, but entire kernels can become gray or black as a result of the black point.There is no management of these diseases at this time. The fungi that cause black point can cause problems with germination and reduce seedling vigor. Therefore, seed lots with symptoms of black point should be tested for germination. If black point is causing germination problems, fungicide seed treatments can often improve the germination and ensure good stand establishment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625156038489.png" alt="Wheat kernels with symptoms of black point (top row of kernels are healthy). Photo by Erick DeWolf, K-State Research and Extension." />
 <figcaption>Wheat kernels with symptoms of black point (top row of kernels are healthy). Photo by Erick DeWolf, K-State Research and Extension.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625156059388.png" alt="Wheat kernels with symptoms of black point found in Thomas County. Photo by Jeanne Falk Jones, K-State Research and Extension." />
 <figcaption>Wheat kernels with symptoms of black point found in Thomas County. Photo by Jeanne Falk Jones, K-State Research and Extension.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Sooty head molds</h2>Sooty head molds are characterized by a dark green or black mold growth on the surface of mature wheat heads. These molds are part of a naturally occurring complex of organisms that help to decay dead plant debris. Sooty molds are most common when mature wheat is subjected to repeated rains and delayed harvest. This disease also may affect plants that have been damaged by root rot.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625156096855.png" alt="K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>The sooty head mold growth is normally superficial. Its affect on grain is thought to be minor, but it can make for dusty harvest operations. Sooty molds can contribute to a discoloration of the grain called "black point."Management - generally impractical or not needed.Why this year? This disease has been showing up in wheat fields throughout the area due to frequent rainfall events and high humidity. It is also more likely to show up in fields with damaged tissue, such as hail damage or damage from cold temperatures. Many times the dust from the combine is a darker, blacker color when harvesting wheat with this disease on the head.Save it for seed? Even though this disease is a secondary infection, I would look closely at this seed when deciding whether to save it for seed. There potentially could be other things going on earlier in the year that may have affected the seed quality, creating shriveled seed. Also, the frequent rainfall this harvest may have affected the test weight. These things would contribute to decreased emergence and seedling vigor.

CAMPBELL: Sooty molds and black point in wheat

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays native Tim Werth of Werth Wealth Management was recently named the second best wealth adviser in the state of Kansas by Forbes in its Best-In-State Advisor List.

The Forbes list recognizes advisers from national, regional and independent firms.&nbsp;

Werth was also recognized by Barron's as one of the top wealth advisers in the United States and the fourth best adviser in Kansas.

Although Werth manages multi-million accounts, he comes from humble beginning and his firm continues to offer financial advice to middle-class families across Kansas.

Werth, 51, is the youngest of six children. His parents owned a mechanic and tire shop.

He learned a strong work ethic growing up in Hays — something he said has been essential to his success in finance.

After graduating from Thomas More Prep-Marian, he went to work for a local financial adviser, Dave King. He graduated from Emporia State University with degree in finance and a minor in accounting.&nbsp;

Werth chose to come home to Hays to set up his business over taking a job with&nbsp;Merrill Lynch&nbsp;in the city.

He attributed his success early on to hard work.

"Lots of hours, lots and lots of hours early on and networking," he said. "I also had a good background in accounting and finance and that certainly helped."

Although today, Werth Wealth Management services high-net worth individuals, retirement accounts and foundations, he said the practice was built on middle-class families — one relationship at a time.

"A lot of these families started at zero, and they have accumulated material amounts of assets over the last 30 years working with us," he said. "That has been the backbone of our practice, and we have never forgotten that."

If he could give one piece of advice to a young family, he said he would tell them to pay themselves first — pay into a retirement account.

"In the last 30 years, we've never had a client say, 'Gosh, I wish I hadn't started as early as I did,' " he said.

Over time, he said, he was able to build a strong team. He often hires graduates from Fort Hays State University and individuals from small communities.

"We want to hire smart people with big hearts," he said.&nbsp;

Werth has been involved in many philanthropic organizations in the community, including the Hays Chamber, FHSU Foundation board, among many other local and regional civic groups.

He humbly attributed much of the success of the business and the rankings on the Forbes and Barron's lists to his team.

"Our partners and associates, we come to work every day with a laser focus on doing what's right and what is in the best interest of our clients," he said.

"I'm really proud of the team we've built within Werth Management from both a professional standpoint and personal accountability."

Werth uses the following quote as a philosophy for his firm:

“Do the right thing — even if it hurts. Do not confuse really good with perfect. Forward always and backward never. All things equal, the best communicator always wins.”

"You can spend time looking at the past and beating decisions in the past up, but it is always best for people to look forward," he said. "In our area and in the United States, the optimistic path has always been the best one to take."

He said he sees being an excellent communicator with both employees and clients as essential.

"You have to listen to what is really important to them and help put a plan in place that takes care of their needs," he said. "If you are competing for business, all things considered equal, the best communicator usually wins."

He said regular communication was particularly important during the volatility of the pandemic during the last two years.

"People don't need you when the wind is at their back," he said. "They need you during volatile, difficult periods."

All of the other top advisers in the state on the the two lists were from Kansas City metro area. Werth said headquarting in Hays has been an asset instead of liability.

"We come from a small community, and we see the majority of the people we represent regularly," he said. "We have to be accountable every day. We are proud of our roots. Hays is home, and it's a special place.

"I think those values that are prevalent in our community have really helped us expand our business outside of just Hays, Kansas."

Technology has leveled the playing field for Werth, allowing it to expand into metro areas, he said. The firm also has an office in Leawood.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1625090590873.jpeg" alt="Tim Werth Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tim Werth Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays native Tim Werth of Werth Wealth Management was recently named the second best wealth adviser in the state of Kansas by Forbes in its Best-In-State Advisor List.The Forbes list recognizes advisers from national, regional and independent firms.&nbsp;Werth was also recognized by Barron's as one of the top wealth advisers in the United States and the fourth best adviser in Kansas.Although Werth manages multi-million accounts, he comes from humble beginning and his firm continues to offer financial advice to middle-class families across Kansas.Werth, 51, is the youngest of six children. His parents owned a mechanic and tire shop.He learned a strong work ethic growing up in Hays — something he said has been essential to his success in finance.After graduating from Thomas More Prep-Marian, he went to work for a local financial adviser, Dave King. He graduated from Emporia State University with degree in finance and a minor in accounting.&nbsp;Werth chose to come home to Hays to set up his business over taking a job with&nbsp;Merrill Lynch&nbsp;in the city.He attributed his success early on to hard work."Lots of hours, lots and lots of hours early on and networking," he said. "I also had a good background in accounting and finance and that certainly helped."Although today, Werth Wealth Management services high-net worth individuals, retirement accounts and foundations, he said the practice was built on middle-class families — one relationship at a time."A lot of these families started at zero, and they have accumulated material amounts of assets over the last 30 years working with us," he said. "That has been the backbone of our practice, and we have never forgotten that."If he could give one piece of advice to a young family, he said he would tell them to pay themselves first — pay into a retirement account."In the last 30 years, we've never had a client say, 'Gosh, I wish I hadn't started as early as I did,' " he said.Over time, he said, he was able to build a strong team. He often hires graduates from Fort Hays State University and individuals from small communities."We want to hire smart people with big hearts," he said.&nbsp;Werth has been involved in many philanthropic organizations in the community, including the Hays Chamber, FHSU Foundation board, among many other local and regional civic groups.He humbly attributed much of the success of the business and the rankings on the Forbes and Barron's lists to his team."Our partners and associates, we come to work every day with a laser focus on doing what's right and what is in the best interest of our clients," he said."I'm really proud of the team we've built within Werth Management from both a professional standpoint and personal accountability."Werth uses the following quote as a philosophy for his firm:“Do the right thing — even if it hurts. Do not confuse really good with perfect. Forward always and backward never. All things equal, the best communicator always wins.”"You can spend time looking at the past and beating decisions in the past up, but it is always best for people to look forward," he said. "In our area and in the United States, the optimistic path has always been the best one to take."He said he sees being an excellent communicator with both employees and clients as essential."You have to listen to what is really important to them and help put a plan in place that takes care of their needs," he said. "If you are competing for business, all things considered equal, the best communicator usually wins."He said regular communication was particularly important during the volatility of the pandemic during the last two years."People don't need you when the wind is at their back," he said. "They need you during volatile, difficult periods."All of the other top advisers in the state on the the two lists were from Kansas City metro area. Werth said headquarting in Hays has been an asset instead of liability."We come from a small community, and we see the majority of the people we represent regularly," he said. "We have to be accountable every day. We are proud of our roots. Hays is home, and it's a special place."I think those values that are prevalent in our community have really helped us expand our business outside of just Hays, Kansas."Technology has leveled the playing field for Werth, allowing it to expand into metro areas, he said. The firm also has an office in Leawood.

Hays' Tim Werth tops Forbes, Barron's lists for wealth advisers

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

“Giving back.” The term is frequently used, but what does it mean in practice? Today we’ll meet a family-owned pharmacy where the people have a longtime commitment to giving back to their rural community.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Heather Johnson is the CEO of S&amp;S Drug, a family-owned pharmacy in downtown Beloit. S&amp;S Drug has served north-central Kansas for more than 100 years. In 1986, Max and Michele Heidrick purchased the drugstore, and it has been in their family ever since. Their daughter Heather grew up in the business.&nbsp;

Heather went to Kansas State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and later got a master’s in special ed. She married Jim Johnson, who had grown up in neighboring Jewell County and earned a degree in agribusiness. After graduation, they moved to Norton, where Heather taught and Jim worked in a bank until he went to law school at the University of Kansas. In 2005, they moved back to Beloit, where Jim joined the law practice of attorney Curt Frasier. In 2007, Heather took a position as bookkeeper at her family’s business, S&amp;S Drug. Heather and Jim also had three children.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Over the years, my dad and I have kind of switched roles,” Heather said. “Now I’m doing the management, and he’s enjoyed becoming a professional grandpa,” she said with a smile.&nbsp;

S&amp;S Drug has two businesses, a full-service pharmacy and a home-health supply store.&nbsp;&nbsp;The businesses are located across the street from each other in downtown Beloit.&nbsp;

As a businessperson, community member, and mother of three, Heather felt strongly about enhancing the quality of life in the community. “I focused on things I enjoyed as a young child,” Heather said. “I wanted those same opportunities for my kids and their friends.”&nbsp;

This was based on values that Heather had learned from her parents, who had also been deeply involved in the community. “That’s how we were raised,” she said. “My mom and dad were doers.”&nbsp;

As a result, S&amp;S Drug has been a longtime sponsor of community and youth activities in Beloit. S&amp;S Drug and the Heidrick and Johnson families are involved in supporting lots of different activities for virtually every major holiday.&nbsp;

They helped organize and sponsor the Easter egg hunt, for example, where as many as 600 children participate, and everyone gets a prize. At Christmastime, they help sponsor the annual visit by Santa Claus to downtown Beloit, complete with crafts and cookies. The list goes on and on.&nbsp;

“When we first moved back (to Beloit), there were Fourth of July fireworks at Waconda Lake,” Heather said. When funding ran low and the organizers got tired, the fireworks were discontinued. “North-central Kansas went a year without fireworks, and we felt that had to change,” Heather said. Her family solicited funds, and more than $10,000 was raised to bring back the annual fireworks display. As of 2021, the local chamber now operates the fireworks show.&nbsp;

“When my kids were little, I took them to the Beloit city pool,” Heather said. “It had been built in the 1940s and was leaking and costing the city a lot of money.” She saw the need, set up a committee, researched the topic and led a drive to fund a new aquatic center. Voters approved a sales tax increase for the project. Beloit became one of the first rural Kansas communities to construct a large water park.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It’s been a great draw,” Heather said. “There was a village here that helped raise me and my siblings. Someone needs to carry on those traditions.”&nbsp;

That type of commitment to community is vital in rural places such as Beloit, population 3,835 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

For more information about the community, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.beloitks.org/">www.beloitks.org</a>.&nbsp;

“Giving back.” It’s more than a concept for Heather Johnson of S&amp;S Drug, who is making a difference by enhancing the quality of life in her community. She not only moved back, she is giving back.&nbsp;

And there’s more. The second element of this story has to do with COVID-19. We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1625060936385.png" alt="From left, Jay Heidrick, Heather Johnson, Joe Heidrick, Michele Heidrick, Max Heidrick, Missy Heidrick" />
 <figcaption>From left, Jay Heidrick, Heather Johnson, Joe Heidrick, Michele Heidrick, Max Heidrick, Missy Heidrick</figcaption>
 </figure>BY RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;“Giving back.” The term is frequently used, but what does it mean in practice? Today we’ll meet a family-owned pharmacy where the people have a longtime commitment to giving back to their rural community.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Heather Johnson is the CEO of S&amp;S Drug, a family-owned pharmacy in downtown Beloit. S&amp;S Drug has served north-central Kansas for more than 100 years. In 1986, Max and Michele Heidrick purchased the drugstore, and it has been in their family ever since. Their daughter Heather grew up in the business.&nbsp;Heather went to Kansas State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and later got a master’s in special ed. She married Jim Johnson, who had grown up in neighboring Jewell County and earned a degree in agribusiness. After graduation, they moved to Norton, where Heather taught and Jim worked in a bank until he went to law school at the University of Kansas. In 2005, they moved back to Beloit, where Jim joined the law practice of attorney Curt Frasier. In 2007, Heather took a position as bookkeeper at her family’s business, S&amp;S Drug. Heather and Jim also had three children.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Over the years, my dad and I have kind of switched roles,” Heather said. “Now I’m doing the management, and he’s enjoyed becoming a professional grandpa,” she said with a smile.&nbsp;S&amp;S Drug has two businesses, a full-service pharmacy and a home-health supply store.&nbsp;&nbsp;The businesses are located across the street from each other in downtown Beloit.&nbsp;As a businessperson, community member, and mother of three, Heather felt strongly about enhancing the quality of life in the community. “I focused on things I enjoyed as a young child,” Heather said. “I wanted those same opportunities for my kids and their friends.”&nbsp;This was based on values that Heather had learned from her parents, who had also been deeply involved in the community. “That’s how we were raised,” she said. “My mom and dad were doers.”&nbsp;As a result, S&amp;S Drug has been a longtime sponsor of community and youth activities in Beloit. S&amp;S Drug and the Heidrick and Johnson families are involved in supporting lots of different activities for virtually every major holiday.&nbsp;They helped organize and sponsor the Easter egg hunt, for example, where as many as 600 children participate, and everyone gets a prize. At Christmastime, they help sponsor the annual visit by Santa Claus to downtown Beloit, complete with crafts and cookies. The list goes on and on.&nbsp;“When we first moved back (to Beloit), there were Fourth of July fireworks at Waconda Lake,” Heather said. When funding ran low and the organizers got tired, the fireworks were discontinued. “North-central Kansas went a year without fireworks, and we felt that had to change,” Heather said. Her family solicited funds, and more than $10,000 was raised to bring back the annual fireworks display. As of 2021, the local chamber now operates the fireworks show.&nbsp;“When my kids were little, I took them to the Beloit city pool,” Heather said. “It had been built in the 1940s and was leaking and costing the city a lot of money.” She saw the need, set up a committee, researched the topic and led a drive to fund a new aquatic center. Voters approved a sales tax increase for the project. Beloit became one of the first rural Kansas communities to construct a large water park.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s been a great draw,” Heather said. “There was a village here that helped raise me and my siblings. Someone needs to carry on those traditions.”&nbsp;That type of commitment to community is vital in rural places such as Beloit, population 3,835 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;For more information about the community, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.beloitks.org/">www.beloitks.org</a>.&nbsp;“Giving back.” It’s more than a concept for Heather Johnson of S&amp;S Drug, who is making a difference by enhancing the quality of life in her community. She not only moved back, she is giving back.&nbsp;And there’s more. The second element of this story has to do with COVID-19. We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Heather Johnson, S&S Drug, Part 1 

The Eagles (15-4) rallied for an 8-5 win over Iola in the
semifinals, scoring two in the fifth to take the lead then adding single runs
in the sixth and seventh. The game was intense throughout after a controversial
out call at the plate in the first and a crash play late in the game that
resulted in an Iola player getting ejected and an Indian coach getting tossed earlier
in the game.

Hays took the lead for good on Brady Kreutzer’s two-run
double that scored Gage Porter and Ben Krannawitter who both reached on errors.
Brayden Dreher drove in a run in the sixth on a sacrifice fly and Dalton Dale’s
single scored a run for the final margin.

Iola threatened in the bottom of the seventh. Following a
leadoff triple from Ryker Curry, Bradyn Cole flied out to left fielder Jack Fields who
threw Curry out at the plate trying to score. Curry crashed into Eagles catcher
Remington Cox and was ejected for not sliding and crashing into the catcher.

Dale had three of the Eagles eight hits and drove in two.
Kreutzer finished with three RBIs.

Garrett Wellbrock (4-2) allowed two earned runs on eight
hits with one strikeout and three walks in the complete game victory as the Eagles
overcame six errors to advance to the title game.

Hays held a slim 4-3 lead in the title game before scoring a
run in the fifth, two in the sixth and five in the seventh.

Dalton Dale had three hits and drove in two runs. Ben
Krannawitter, Brady Kreutzer and Jack Fields all added two hits and Garrett
Wellbrock drove in three runs.

Carson Spray (4-0) allowed three runs on four hits over four
innings. Brady Kreutzer allowed one unearned run over the final three innings
and picked up the save.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625381295595.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Eagles (15-4) rallied for an 8-5 win over Iola in the
semifinals, scoring two in the fifth to take the lead then adding single runs
in the sixth and seventh. The game was intense throughout after a controversial
out call at the plate in the first and a crash play late in the game that
resulted in an Iola player getting ejected and an Indian coach getting tossed earlier
in the game.Hays took the lead for good on Brady Kreutzer’s two-run
double that scored Gage Porter and Ben Krannawitter who both reached on errors.
Brayden Dreher drove in a run in the sixth on a sacrifice fly and Dalton Dale’s
single scored a run for the final margin.Iola threatened in the bottom of the seventh. Following a
leadoff triple from Ryker Curry, Bradyn Cole flied out to left fielder Jack Fields who
threw Curry out at the plate trying to score. Curry crashed into Eagles catcher
Remington Cox and was ejected for not sliding and crashing into the catcher.Dale had three of the Eagles eight hits and drove in two.
Kreutzer finished with three RBIs.Garrett Wellbrock (4-2) allowed two earned runs on eight
hits with one strikeout and three walks in the complete game victory as the Eagles
overcame six errors to advance to the title game.Hays held a slim 4-3 lead in the title game before scoring a
run in the fifth, two in the sixth and five in the seventh.Dalton Dale had three hits and drove in two runs. Ben
Krannawitter, Brady Kreutzer and Jack Fields all added two hits and Garrett
Wellbrock drove in three runs.Carson Spray (4-0) allowed three runs on four hits over four
innings. Brady Kreutzer allowed one unearned run over the final three innings
and picked up the save.

⚾ Senior Legion defeats Iola twice to win WWF Tournament

PRATT – Do you have a stellar photo highlighting Kansas wildlife, outdoor recreation, hunting, fishing, or local landscapes? 

Submit your work in the 2021 “Wild About Kansas” 9th annual photo contest hosted by&nbsp;Kansas Wildlife and Parks Magazine! Deadline for participating in the contest is Oct. 18 by 11:59 p.m.

1. Visit <a href="http://ksoutdoors.com">ksoutdoors.com</a>, click “Publications,” then “2021 Wild About Kansas Photo Contest.”

2. Carefully read each category description, and contest rules.

3. Complete the “2021 ‘Wild About Kansas’ Entry Form” found at the bottom of the webpage. (You will receive a confirmation code upon completion).

4. Copy your confirmation code into the subject line of a new e-mail.

5. Attach up to three photos, and detail which category each photo should be entered into (one category per image). Then, e-mail your photos to <a href="http://kdwpt.wildaboutkansas@ks.gov">kdwpt.wildaboutkansas@ks.gov</a>.

Participants whose images are selected for a 1st, 2nd, 3rd place or honorable mention award will have their winning imagery featured in the 2022 January/February photo issue of&nbsp;Kansas Wildlife and Parks Magazine.

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Publications/Magazine/2020-Wild-About-Kansas-Photo-Contest" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com/Services/Publications/Magazine/2021-Wild-About-Kansas-Photo-Contest</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625361942612.png" alt="Photo courtesy KDWPT" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KDWPT</figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT – Do you have a stellar photo highlighting Kansas wildlife, outdoor recreation, hunting, fishing, or local landscapes? Submit your work in the 2021 “Wild About Kansas” 9th annual photo contest hosted by&nbsp;Kansas Wildlife and Parks Magazine! Deadline for participating in the contest is Oct. 18 by 11:59 p.m.Here’s how to enter:1. Visit <a href="http://ksoutdoors.com">ksoutdoors.com</a>, click “Publications,” then “2021 Wild About Kansas Photo Contest.”2. Carefully read each category description, and contest rules.3. Complete the “2021 ‘Wild About Kansas’ Entry Form” found at the bottom of the webpage. (You will receive a confirmation code upon completion).4. Copy your confirmation code into the subject line of a new e-mail.5. Attach up to three photos, and detail which category each photo should be entered into (one category per image). Then, e-mail your photos to <a href="http://kdwpt.wildaboutkansas@ks.gov">kdwpt.wildaboutkansas@ks.gov</a>.Participants whose images are selected for a 1st, 2nd, 3rd place or honorable mention award will have their winning imagery featured in the 2022 January/February photo issue of&nbsp;Kansas Wildlife and Parks Magazine.Photos must be:●1 megabyte (MB) or larger●Taken in Kansas●Appropriate for the category enteredFor more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Publications/Magazine/2020-Wild-About-Kansas-Photo-Contest" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com/Services/Publications/Magazine/2021-Wild-About-Kansas-Photo-Contest</a>.

Wild About Kansas photography contest going on now

Pollinators need food in all seasons, and planning what to grow can help sustain them throughout the year.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S60_571zXr4"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Pollinators need food in all seasons, and planning what to grow can help sustain them throughout the year.

🎥 Green & Growing 2021: Pollinators, Part 2

"Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence." — John Adams

Sometimes, the simplest story is the best one.&nbsp; With the COVID-19 pandemic, two fact-based stories stand out. First, getting vaccinated is the best thing you can do for yourself, your family, and your community. The evidence is overwhelming, whether we’re talking about rates of infection, hospitalization, or death.&nbsp; With more than two billion doses administered around the world, vaccination stands as a historic, unqualified success,

In Kansas, with our great variation among counties in vaccination levels, we have &nbsp;every reason to think that those counties with higher rates will experience fewer new cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.&nbsp;

Thanks to the research done by KU scholars Donna Ginther and Carlos Zambrana we do have solid evidence that another tactic – wearing masks—makes a big difference on containing spread, seriousness, and deadliness of COVID-19. That’s the second major COVID story, a straightforward social science narrative of how well-informed policies can produce positive results.

When Governor Laura Kelly announced a mask mandate, taking effect in July 2020, just fifteen counties, mostly large ones, complied.&nbsp; Conversely, 68 counties never adopted any mask requirement.&nbsp; Such a stark division established ideal conditions for a natural experiment. That is, we can compare how counties with a mask mandate fared during the pandemic as opposed to those who never imposed such a policy.

Veteran researchers Ginther and Zambrama are not epidemiologists; rather, Ginther is a distinguished professor of economics and the head of KU’s multi-disciplinary Institute for Policy and Social Research. Their work is straightforward analysis of basic data, with a single, clear policy difference. Moreover, the mask/no-mask dichotomy almost certainly underestimates the impact of mask-wearing, given its focus on overall county policy, not the actual wearing of masks.

When the mask mandate took effect, COVID-19 rates were three times higher in mask counties; in less than four months this trend reversed, with cases twice as high in no mask counties. Similar reversals occurred for both COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths. The simple mandating of mask-wearing significantly affected rates of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths.

By the July 3 start of Governor Laura Kelly’s mask mandate, the medical/scientific consensus was clear that this policy would slow the spread of COVID-19. But many politicians, in and out of Kansas, battled the mandate and politicized the policy.

They were wrong. Governor Kelly and her advisors were right. The study concludes that the mask mandate saved at least 500 lives in Kansas. Following the known facts proved the better policy.

OK, you might say, in this limited study, good policy proved a better choice. But so what?&nbsp; Well, here’s what, on two major issues.

First, Medicaid expansion, with its natural experiment between states that did and didn’t expand.&nbsp; As of 2018, the expansion states experienced at least 19,000 fewer premature deaths than they would have without expansion, and medical debt dropped almost $1500 per person.

Second, climate change.&nbsp; Thousands of studies form a consensus on the immense fiscal and health benefits of aggressively combatting climate change. It’s difficult for a single state to do much, but as a society the facts demand that we act.

Science is powerful. And per John Adams, “Facts are stubborn things.”

Burdett Loomis is an emeritus professor of political science at the University of Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574348610067.jpeg" alt="Burdett Loomis is an emeritus professor of political science at the University of Kansas." />
 <figcaption>Burdett Loomis is an emeritus professor of political science at the University of Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>"Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence." — John AdamsSometimes, the simplest story is the best one.&nbsp; With the COVID-19 pandemic, two fact-based stories stand out. First, getting vaccinated is the best thing you can do for yourself, your family, and your community. The evidence is overwhelming, whether we’re talking about rates of infection, hospitalization, or death.&nbsp; With more than two billion doses administered around the world, vaccination stands as a historic, unqualified success,In Kansas, with our great variation among counties in vaccination levels, we have &nbsp;every reason to think that those counties with higher rates will experience fewer new cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.&nbsp;Thanks to the research done by KU scholars Donna Ginther and Carlos Zambrana we do have solid evidence that another tactic – wearing masks—makes a big difference on containing spread, seriousness, and deadliness of COVID-19. That’s the second major COVID story, a straightforward social science narrative of how well-informed policies can produce positive results.When Governor Laura Kelly announced a mask mandate, taking effect in July 2020, just fifteen counties, mostly large ones, complied.&nbsp; Conversely, 68 counties never adopted any mask requirement.&nbsp; Such a stark division established ideal conditions for a natural experiment. That is, we can compare how counties with a mask mandate fared during the pandemic as opposed to those who never imposed such a policy.Veteran researchers Ginther and Zambrama are not epidemiologists; rather, Ginther is a distinguished professor of economics and the head of KU’s multi-disciplinary Institute for Policy and Social Research. Their work is straightforward analysis of basic data, with a single, clear policy difference. Moreover, the mask/no-mask dichotomy almost certainly underestimates the impact of mask-wearing, given its focus on overall county policy, not the actual wearing of masks.When the mask mandate took effect, COVID-19 rates were three times higher in mask counties; in less than four months this trend reversed, with cases twice as high in no mask counties. Similar reversals occurred for both COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths. The simple mandating of mask-wearing significantly affected rates of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths.By the July 3 start of Governor Laura Kelly’s mask mandate, the medical/scientific consensus was clear that this policy would slow the spread of COVID-19. But many politicians, in and out of Kansas, battled the mandate and politicized the policy.They were wrong. Governor Kelly and her advisors were right. The study concludes that the mask mandate saved at least 500 lives in Kansas. Following the known facts proved the better policy.OK, you might say, in this limited study, good policy proved a better choice. But so what?&nbsp; Well, here’s what, on two major issues.First, Medicaid expansion, with its natural experiment between states that did and didn’t expand.&nbsp; As of 2018, the expansion states experienced at least 19,000 fewer premature deaths than they would have without expansion, and medical debt dropped almost $1500 per person.Second, climate change.&nbsp; Thousands of studies form a consensus on the immense fiscal and health benefits of aggressively combatting climate change. It’s difficult for a single state to do much, but as a society the facts demand that we act.Science is powerful. And per John Adams, “Facts are stubborn things.”Burdett Loomis is an emeritus professor of political science at the University of Kansas.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Facts and policies

Well, after such a pleasant cool spring, here we go again with summer in Kansas. This week’s column is a concoction of different subjects, all having something to do with summer and the temperature. The internet teems with one-liners about most everything imaginable, and here are a few I came up with about the heat.&nbsp;

It’s so hot that I bought a cup of coffee at McDonalds and poured it over my lap to cool off.

It’s so hot that beer guts and big butts no longer keep people from wearing shorts.

It’s so hot that CRP now stands for Crispy Rotational Pasture.

&nbsp;it’s so hot that congress actually had to take their hands out of OUR pockets to fan themselves.

And my personal favorite; It’s so hot that the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism will be offering a new big game hunting license this year; it will be good for 1 camel, either sex! &nbsp;

And speaking of how hot it is, I ran across something I thought to be straight from the “old wives’ tales” folder, but it was splashed all over the internet, so maybe I was wrong again. It seems that in the late 1800’s, AE Dolbear a professor at Tuft’s college near Boston first noted a relationship between air temperature and the rate at which crickets chirp. In 1887 he published the first equation, known as Dolbear’s Law, which can be used to determine the approximate temperature in Fahrenheit based on the number of times a cricket chirps in one minute. Be advised; be very careful here because the equation is slightly different depending on whether you are listening to a common Field Cricket, a Snowy Tree Cricket or a Common True Katydid. For your average run-of-the-mill Field Cricket, the equation goes something like this; subtract 40 from the number of chirps per minute, then add 50 and divide by 4 to get the approximate temperature. (T = 50+ (N-40) / 4) There actually is some science behind this. Since crickets are cold-blooded, they chirp faster as they get warmer.&nbsp; I’ll bet his research took forever as people probably kept smashing his test subjects. Like I said, I found this all over the internet and each source swore there is something to the theory, so test it out and let me know the results. If I get enough feedback, I’ll publish it in a future column.&nbsp; I absolutely hate this heat and I seriously doubt there’s a cricket alive that can chirp enough times in 1 minute to even come close to calculating our temperatures of late.&nbsp;

Every few years, the men’s fellowship group at my church has a fish fry, and we always end the evening by telling our best outdoor related stories. The best story is selected by the group and retold to end the evening.&nbsp; This story was the winner at the last fish fry. It took place while setting bank lines for flathead catfish somewhere on a river here in Kansas. Two buddies had numerous lines set and had checked them several times during the night. Bank lines are heavy cord tied to a tree limb or something else along the river bank that will flex when a big fish is hooked and begins to tug and tussle. They are usually baited with live fish of some sort, often a bluegill or a goldfish. It was the last check of the lines early in the morning just before they would pull them for the day. As the two approached one particular line, a ruckus erupted on the bank; there was a blue heron hooked on the line! Herons feed by swallowing small fish headfirst, and this one had evidently swallowed the fish used for bait on that particular line, meaning the large hook was now several inches down the throat of a very big unhappy bird. Now a blue heron may look tall and spindly, but I have little doubt that one hooked on a fishing line would be a lesson in bronco-bustin’ trying to free it. With the thrashing beast bulldogged and wrapped up in the arms of the storyteller, they could see by the bulge on the outside of the heron’s throat where the hook was wedged. With the point of his knife, his buddy made a small hole where the hook appeared lodged, cut the line and pulled the rig, hook first out through the hole in the heron’s throat. And once again, the victim flew away and lived happily ever after. 

Everyone in attendance that night knew that “Thou shalt not lie” is amongst the Ten Commandments, but as far as I know, nowhere in the Ten Commandments does it state “Thou shalt not embellish!” 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Well, after such a pleasant cool spring, here we go again with summer in Kansas. This week’s column is a concoction of different subjects, all having something to do with summer and the temperature. The internet teems with one-liners about most everything imaginable, and here are a few I came up with about the heat.&nbsp;It’s so hot that I bought a cup of coffee at McDonalds and poured it over my lap to cool off.It’s so hot that beer guts and big butts no longer keep people from wearing shorts.It’s so hot that CRP now stands for Crispy Rotational Pasture.&nbsp;it’s so hot that congress actually had to take their hands out of OUR pockets to fan themselves.And my personal favorite; It’s so hot that the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism will be offering a new big game hunting license this year; it will be good for 1 camel, either sex! &nbsp;And speaking of how hot it is, I ran across something I thought to be straight from the “old wives’ tales” folder, but it was splashed all over the internet, so maybe I was wrong again. It seems that in the late 1800’s, AE Dolbear a professor at Tuft’s college near Boston first noted a relationship between air temperature and the rate at which crickets chirp. In 1887 he published the first equation, known as Dolbear’s Law, which can be used to determine the approximate temperature in Fahrenheit based on the number of times a cricket chirps in one minute. Be advised; be very careful here because the equation is slightly different depending on whether you are listening to a common Field Cricket, a Snowy Tree Cricket or a Common True Katydid. For your average run-of-the-mill Field Cricket, the equation goes something like this; subtract 40 from the number of chirps per minute, then add 50 and divide by 4 to get the approximate temperature. (T = 50+ (N-40) / 4) There actually is some science behind this. Since crickets are cold-blooded, they chirp faster as they get warmer.&nbsp; I’ll bet his research took forever as people probably kept smashing his test subjects. Like I said, I found this all over the internet and each source swore there is something to the theory, so test it out and let me know the results. If I get enough feedback, I’ll publish it in a future column.&nbsp; I absolutely hate this heat and I seriously doubt there’s a cricket alive that can chirp enough times in 1 minute to even come close to calculating our temperatures of late.&nbsp;Every few years, the men’s fellowship group at my church has a fish fry, and we always end the evening by telling our best outdoor related stories. The best story is selected by the group and retold to end the evening.&nbsp; This story was the winner at the last fish fry. It took place while setting bank lines for flathead catfish somewhere on a river here in Kansas. Two buddies had numerous lines set and had checked them several times during the night. Bank lines are heavy cord tied to a tree limb or something else along the river bank that will flex when a big fish is hooked and begins to tug and tussle. They are usually baited with live fish of some sort, often a bluegill or a goldfish. It was the last check of the lines early in the morning just before they would pull them for the day. As the two approached one particular line, a ruckus erupted on the bank; there was a blue heron hooked on the line! Herons feed by swallowing small fish headfirst, and this one had evidently swallowed the fish used for bait on that particular line, meaning the large hook was now several inches down the throat of a very big unhappy bird. Now a blue heron may look tall and spindly, but I have little doubt that one hooked on a fishing line would be a lesson in bronco-bustin’ trying to free it. With the thrashing beast bulldogged and wrapped up in the arms of the storyteller, they could see by the bulge on the outside of the heron’s throat where the hook was wedged. With the point of his knife, his buddy made a small hole where the hook appeared lodged, cut the line and pulled the rig, hook first out through the hole in the heron’s throat. And once again, the victim flew away and lived happily ever after. Everyone in attendance that night knew that “Thou shalt not lie” is amongst the Ten Commandments, but as far as I know, nowhere in the Ten Commandments does it state “Thou shalt not embellish!” Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Kansas Outdoors: It’s too hot … again

RUSSELL COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office are conducting a death investigation after a man’s body was found Friday north of Russell, according to a media release from the agency.

Just before noon Friday, the Russell County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a construction crew who had discovered an abandoned vehicle and a body near their worksite. 

When deputies arrived at the location, which was four miles north of Russell along U.S. Highway 281, they confirmed the man was deceased.

The KBI was asked to assist at approximately 1:15 p.m. on Friday. Special agents and the Crime Scene Response Team responded to the scene. Positive identification is still pending. An autopsy has been scheduled

RUSSELL COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office are conducting a death investigation after a man’s body was found Friday north of Russell, according to a media release from the agency.Just before noon Friday, the Russell County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a construction crew who had discovered an abandoned vehicle and a body near their worksite. When deputies arrived at the location, which was four miles north of Russell along U.S. Highway 281, they confirmed the man was deceased.The KBI was asked to assist at approximately 1:15 p.m. on Friday. Special agents and the Crime Scene Response Team responded to the scene. Positive identification is still pending. An autopsy has been scheduled

KBI: Man's body found in rural Russell County

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported one new COVID-19 case 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.

As of Friday,&nbsp;the University of Kansas Health System reported no COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,765 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625247967896.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported one new COVID-19 case 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.As of Friday,&nbsp;the University of Kansas Health System reported no COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.Since reporting began, there have been 3,765 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: One new virus case in Ellis Co. since Wednesday

<a href="https://www.ldisd.net/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&amp;DomainID=4&amp;ModuleInstanceID=613&amp;ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&amp;RenderLoc=0&amp;FlexDataID=15518&amp;PageID=1">Lake Dallas (Texas) Independent School District</a>

The Lake Dallas ISD Board of Trustees has unanimously approved Jason 
Young as the new head coach of the varsity Falcon football program, 
elevating the former defensive coordinator to lead the program to new 
success.

Coach Young has served on the Falcons’ coaching staff for the past 10
 years. In that time, he has assisted the program to UIL 5A Division II 
State Semifinal in 2015 the as well as additional playoff appearances in
 2018, 2017, 2014 and 2012. His oversight of the defensive unit extends 
across all football teams, from the middle school level to varsity 
football.

Under his guidance, Lake Dallas High School’s defense has contributed
 to two district championships. Outside of his football 
responsibilities, Coach Young has improved the district’s athletic 
program as a whole by implementing and leading the strength and 
conditioning program at both the middle school and high school level.

“It’s an honor to be named to this position, as I know and have 
experienced the strong history of the Falcon football team,” Coach Young
 said. “The Lake Dallas ISD community is second to none, and I know how 
much our school and this program means to this community. We’re going to
 work very hard to keep that pride in the Falcon program strong, from 
working with younger students in camps to providing ample programs for 
current student-athletes to continue to improve.”

In addition to his time at Lake Dallas High School, Coach Young 
brings experience from 10 years of coaching and teaching across the 
collegiate level. He worked with Division I student-athletes as a member
 of the Oklahoma State University coaching staff. At the high school 
level, he brings additional experience as a coach and teacher at Spring 
Westfield High School and Klein Oak High School.

Coach Young earned his master’s degree in exercise science from Fort 
Hays State University and his bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from the 
University of Texas at El Paso. He comes from a family of coaches, with 
his father, Tom Young, earning the second-most wins as a head coach in 
Kansas high school football history.

Before beginning his career in education and coaching, Coach Young 
played football at Butler Community College and the University of Texas 
at El Paso. He competed as a dual-sport student-athlete at the latter 
college, having also represented UTEP on the track and field team. In 
2000, he competed at the United States Olympic Track &amp; Field Team 
Trials in the javelin.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625244197058.png" alt="Young / Lake Dallas ISD photo" />
 <figcaption>Young / Lake Dallas ISD photo</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.ldisd.net/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&amp;DomainID=4&amp;ModuleInstanceID=613&amp;ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&amp;RenderLoc=0&amp;FlexDataID=15518&amp;PageID=1">Lake Dallas (Texas) Independent School District</a>The Lake Dallas ISD Board of Trustees has unanimously approved Jason 
Young as the new head coach of the varsity Falcon football program, 
elevating the former defensive coordinator to lead the program to new 
success.Coach Young has served on the Falcons’ coaching staff for the past 10
 years. In that time, he has assisted the program to UIL 5A Division II 
State Semifinal in 2015 the as well as additional playoff appearances in
 2018, 2017, 2014 and 2012. His oversight of the defensive unit extends 
across all football teams, from the middle school level to varsity 
football.Under his guidance, Lake Dallas High School’s defense has contributed
 to two district championships. Outside of his football 
responsibilities, Coach Young has improved the district’s athletic 
program as a whole by implementing and leading the strength and 
conditioning program at both the middle school and high school level.“It’s an honor to be named to this position, as I know and have 
experienced the strong history of the Falcon football team,” Coach Young
 said. “The Lake Dallas ISD community is second to none, and I know how 
much our school and this program means to this community. We’re going to
 work very hard to keep that pride in the Falcon program strong, from 
working with younger students in camps to providing ample programs for 
current student-athletes to continue to improve.”In addition to his time at Lake Dallas High School, Coach Young 
brings experience from 10 years of coaching and teaching across the 
collegiate level. He worked with Division I student-athletes as a member
 of the Oklahoma State University coaching staff. At the high school 
level, he brings additional experience as a coach and teacher at Spring 
Westfield High School and Klein Oak High School.Coach Young earned his master’s degree in exercise science from Fort 
Hays State University and his bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from the 
University of Texas at El Paso. He comes from a family of coaches, with 
his father, Tom Young, earning the second-most wins as a head coach in 
Kansas high school football history.Before beginning his career in education and coaching, Coach Young 
played football at Butler Community College and the University of Texas 
at El Paso. He competed as a dual-sport student-athlete at the latter 
college, having also represented UTEP on the track and field team. In 
2000, he competed at the United States Olympic Track &amp; Field Team 
Trials in the javelin.

Fort Hays State alum named head football coach at Texas school

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Biosecurity Research Institute director Stephen Higgs.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Biosecurity Research Institute director Stephen Higgs" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=twds3-107c057-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Biosecurity Research Institute director Stephen Higgs.

🎤Forward Ever: Biosecurity Research Institute director Stephen Higgs

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hays received another half-inch of rain Thursday morning, staying on trend with a wet spring and early summer.

According to statistics from the K-State Agricultural Research Center, Hays averages 3.36 inches of precipitation during July.&nbsp;

Hays is ahead of average moisture received so far this year by more than two inches.&nbsp;

Just short of 17 inches of precipitation has been recorded. The 152-year cumulative average by July 31 is is 14.71 inches.&nbsp;

The Eagle Media Center, 2703 Hall, recorded 0.55 inches of rain yesterday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624632109453.jpg" alt="(Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays received another half-inch of rain Thursday morning, staying on trend with a wet spring and early summer.According to statistics from the K-State Agricultural Research Center, Hays averages 3.36 inches of precipitation during July.&nbsp;Hays is ahead of average moisture received so far this year by more than two inches.&nbsp;Just short of 17 inches of precipitation has been recorded. The 152-year cumulative average by July 31 is is 14.71 inches.&nbsp;The Eagle Media Center, 2703 Hall, recorded 0.55 inches of rain yesterday.

July starts with summer rain in Hays  

Everyone 15 and younger will be admitted free at Hays Aquatic Park.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625177982552.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Everyone 15 and younger will be admitted free at Hays Aquatic Park.

Free swimming at Hays Aquatic Park July 4th

TOPEKA – This Fourth of July weekend, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and Tourism (KDWP) urges individuals who may be on Kansas lakes to be aware of potential blue-green algae and to understand that harmful algal blooms are unpredictable and may develop rapidly.&nbsp;

If you observe a scum, a paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments, or the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. &nbsp;These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

KDHE, in conjunction with KDWP, has also issued several public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.

Atchison County State Fishing Lake, Atchison County (new)

Brown State Fishing Lake, Brown County (new)

Herington Reservoir (New City Lake), Dickinson County

Gathering Pond at Milford, Geary County (new)

Milford Lake&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MDEuNDI3MTA2OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9taWxmb3JkLWxha2Utem9uZWQucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.WdKdZpSYGitGE2-Hqm4A-J3BUF6ubBsLc2hoCAXIjoQ/s/1305914033/br/108754292833-l" target="_blank">Zone C</a>, Geary County (upgrade 7/1)

Agra City Lake, Phillips County (new)

Herington City Lake (Old Lake), Dickinson County

Milford Lake&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MDEuNDI3MTA2OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9taWxmb3JkLWxha2Utem9uZWQucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.lCIlaQjkKVGkmxAuQ3N0IAAtZ24pIGrmjY7PRO_9b-Y/s/1305914033/br/108754292833-l" target="_blank">Zones A</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MDEuNDI3MTA2OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9taWxmb3JkLWxha2Utem9uZWQucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.OiTRF9eCGFEBSP0w9ZvqYXTuU91-FulNTXCo59h0l2U/s/1305914033/br/108754292833-l" target="_blank">B</a>, Geary County (new)

Horsethief Reservoir, Hodgeman County (new)

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MDEuNDI3MTA2OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9wZXJyeV9sYWtlX3pvbmVzLnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.ug4_lJPRpisEdgwqIBzyQPMxH0eQbmKWmGhJdANdau4/s/1305914033/br/108754292833-l" target="_blank">Perry Zone C</a>, Jefferson County (new)

Atwood Township Lake, Rawlins County

Keith Sebelius Reservoir, Norton County

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625177329351.jpeg" alt="Blue-green algae (Photo by Pixabay)" />
 <figcaption>Blue-green algae (Photo by Pixabay)</figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA – This Fourth of July weekend, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and Tourism (KDWP) urges individuals who may be on Kansas lakes to be aware of potential blue-green algae and to understand that harmful algal blooms are unpredictable and may develop rapidly.&nbsp;If you observe a scum, a paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments, or the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. &nbsp;These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.KDHE, in conjunction with KDWP, has also issued several public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.ACTIVE ADVISORIESWARNINGAtchison County State Fishing Lake, Atchison County (new)Brown State Fishing Lake, Brown County (new)Herington Reservoir (New City Lake), Dickinson CountyGathering Pond at Milford, Geary County (new)Milford Lake&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MDEuNDI3MTA2OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9taWxmb3JkLWxha2Utem9uZWQucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.WdKdZpSYGitGE2-Hqm4A-J3BUF6ubBsLc2hoCAXIjoQ/s/1305914033/br/108754292833-l" target="_blank">Zone C</a>, Geary County (upgrade 7/1)Marion Reservoir, Marion CountyAgra City Lake, Phillips County (new)Webster Reservoir, Rooks CountyJerry Ivey Pond, Saline CountyBig Eleven Lake, Wyandotte CountyWATCHMission Lake Horton, Brown County (new)Herington City Lake (Old Lake), Dickinson CountyMilford Lake&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MDEuNDI3MTA2OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9taWxmb3JkLWxha2Utem9uZWQucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.lCIlaQjkKVGkmxAuQ3N0IAAtZ24pIGrmjY7PRO_9b-Y/s/1305914033/br/108754292833-l" target="_blank">Zones A</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MDEuNDI3MTA2OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9taWxmb3JkLWxha2Utem9uZWQucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.OiTRF9eCGFEBSP0w9ZvqYXTuU91-FulNTXCo59h0l2U/s/1305914033/br/108754292833-l" target="_blank">B</a>, Geary County (new)Horsethief Reservoir, Hodgeman County (new)<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MDEuNDI3MTA2OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9wZXJyeV9sYWtlX3pvbmVzLnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.ug4_lJPRpisEdgwqIBzyQPMxH0eQbmKWmGhJdANdau4/s/1305914033/br/108754292833-l" target="_blank">Perry Zone C</a>, Jefferson County (new)South Lake, Johnson CountyBig Hill Lake, Labette CountyMarion County Lake, Marion CountyMelvern Outlet Pond, Osage CountyOverbook City Lake, Osage County (new)Pomona Reservoir, Osage County (new)Atwood Township Lake, Rawlins CountyADVISORIES LIFTED JULY 1Keith Sebelius Reservoir, Norton CountyWhen a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ol>
 <li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.</li><li>Water contact should be avoided.</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.</li><li>Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.</li>
 </ol>A watch means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ol>
 <li>Signage will be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.&nbsp;</li><li>Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.</li>
 </ol>KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MDEuNDI3MTA2OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9pbmRleC5odG0_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.HqVCcnU72EwlHlaQMpdT8-rRqdnNZ-wLeFb8htB00V4/s/1305914033/br/108754292833-l" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

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