A handful of area residents gathered Monday night on the Fort Hays State University campus for the Hays stop in a series of town hall meetings to discuss the ongoing 10-year redistricting process.

The 14 events scheduled over five days were billed as a way for constituents to share criteria they would like to see used in creating new legislative district maps.

But it's been argued the process was rushed, and without readily available Census data, ultimately, the meetings amount to political theater.

Adding insult to the perceived injury, the meeting started late, with microphones not working correctly and a presentation the public could not see.

After a brief about the process and the Census, a representative from the League of Women Voters of Great Bend spoke first to the committee.

"Hearings are important for both the legislators who must make decisions and for the public whose voices may be either stifled or amplified by those decisions," she said. "We appreciate the committee's willingness to devote time to listening across the state but are troubled by the compressed schedule and the very short numbers prior to the start of this tour.

"This situation has made it difficult for ordinary Kansasans to prepare to present pertinent information that will help you in your deliberations. The way these hearings were scheduled, it's not really a listening tour. Rather, it is only a means to paying lip service and give the impression you don't really want to know what your constituents think."

She was also concerned that, without Census data available, more opportunities should be made available to the public to share their ideas and concerns with the committee.

Larry Dreiling, Hays, also shared concerns with the process.

"It doesn't take a genius to understand what this committee's true mission is about," he said. "Creating a reapportionment and redistricting law that further narrows the ability of the minority party to be heard in our state Legislature and diving our current congressional districts to create a single-party state."

Dreiling asked the committee to ensure the maps were created in a fair way that would later stop a lengthy legal battle in the future to correct mistakes made in the process.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/f968700e-b864-40bd-8675-26cea01ff942">Jason&nbsp; Probst, D-Hutchinson, said the public's concerns were valid.</a>

"They are absolutely right," said Probst. "This is largely performative. We don't even have the data, so nobody that is in this audience can even talk to us in specific terms about which populations they need to hold together. They don't have the numbers to talk about communities of interest. That's the basis on which we are supposed to draw our political boundaries.

"We gave people less than 10 days notice," he said. "We rushed this out. We had technical problems. We had a sparse audience. It's very clear that this has been mishandled."

After the meeting, he told a Hays Post reporter, "this is bull****."

Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, was more optimistic about the meetings.

"We are getting out to find out what the public desires and what their ideas are," he said.

"We have heard pretty well the same thing at every one," he said.&nbsp;

But, Billinger, said whether Census data is available or not, the process is the same.

"I think everybody's got their ideas and what they believe the process needs to do," Billinger said. "I don't think it is going to change anything. At least we are getting started. We are getting out before we get the data, and, at some point in time, we'll start over with data and try to figure out the best way to make things work."

During other stops, he said attendees had talked about an independent group working on the redistricting, as had happened during the last redistricting 10 years ago, but he found flaws with that work.

"If you look at the maps 10 years ago, they were very gerrymandered," he said. "Look at Graham County, not very far from here, they drew a circle around Hill City and a line down the highway."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/69a3bb4f-9560-4ff8-a029-05cfeae5f022">The meetings are set to continue through the state through Friday.</a>

Census data that will be used during the redistricting process is expected to be released Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628630091963.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostA handful of area residents gathered Monday night on the Fort Hays State University campus for the Hays stop in a series of town hall meetings to discuss the ongoing 10-year redistricting process.The 14 events scheduled over five days were billed as a way for constituents to share criteria they would like to see used in creating new legislative district maps.But it's been argued the process was rushed, and without readily available Census data, ultimately, the meetings amount to political theater.Adding insult to the perceived injury, the meeting started late, with microphones not working correctly and a presentation the public could not see.After a brief about the process and the Census, a representative from the League of Women Voters of Great Bend spoke first to the committee."Hearings are important for both the legislators who must make decisions and for the public whose voices may be either stifled or amplified by those decisions," she said. "We appreciate the committee's willingness to devote time to listening across the state but are troubled by the compressed schedule and the very short numbers prior to the start of this tour."This situation has made it difficult for ordinary Kansasans to prepare to present pertinent information that will help you in your deliberations. The way these hearings were scheduled, it's not really a listening tour. Rather, it is only a means to paying lip service and give the impression you don't really want to know what your constituents think."She was also concerned that, without Census data available, more opportunities should be made available to the public to share their ideas and concerns with the committee.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628630143409.jpeg" alt="Larry Dreiling&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Larry Dreiling&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Larry Dreiling, Hays, also shared concerns with the process."It doesn't take a genius to understand what this committee's true mission is about," he said. "Creating a reapportionment and redistricting law that further narrows the ability of the minority party to be heard in our state Legislature and diving our current congressional districts to create a single-party state."Dreiling asked the committee to ensure the maps were created in a fair way that would later stop a lengthy legal battle in the future to correct mistakes made in the process.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628630233594.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/f968700e-b864-40bd-8675-26cea01ff942">Jason&nbsp; Probst, D-Hutchinson, said the public's concerns were valid.</a>"They are absolutely right," said Probst. "This is largely performative. We don't even have the data, so nobody that is in this audience can even talk to us in specific terms about which populations they need to hold together. They don't have the numbers to talk about communities of interest. That's the basis on which we are supposed to draw our political boundaries."We gave people less than 10 days notice," he said. "We rushed this out. We had technical problems. We had a sparse audience. It's very clear that this has been mishandled."After the meeting, he told a Hays Post reporter, "this is bull****."Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, was more optimistic about the meetings."We are getting out to find out what the public desires and what their ideas are," he said.The Hays stop was the third for the day."We have heard pretty well the same thing at every one," he said.&nbsp;But, Billinger, said whether Census data is available or not, the process is the same."I think everybody's got their ideas and what they believe the process needs to do," Billinger said. "I don't think it is going to change anything. At least we are getting started. We are getting out before we get the data, and, at some point in time, we'll start over with data and try to figure out the best way to make things work."During other stops, he said attendees had talked about an independent group working on the redistricting, as had happened during the last redistricting 10 years ago, but he found flaws with that work."If you look at the maps 10 years ago, they were very gerrymandered," he said. "Look at Graham County, not very far from here, they drew a circle around Hill City and a line down the highway."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/69a3bb4f-9560-4ff8-a029-05cfeae5f022">The meetings are set to continue through the state through Friday.</a>Census data that will be used during the redistricting process is expected to be released Thursday.

'This is largely performative': Redistricting forum sparks discord

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays USD 489 school board member Nuchelle Chance has submitted her resignation to the school district after moving out of state.

She was appointed to the board in January 2020, filling a portion of the remainder of the term of Sophia Rose Young, who also moved out of the school district.

Chance's term would have ended in January 2022. That seat is up for election in the November school board race.

The school board will officially consider her resignation at its next regular meeting on Aug. 23. At that time, the board will also consider what to do with the vacant seat.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628619815764.png" alt="Nuchelle Chance" />
 <figcaption>Nuchelle Chance</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays USD 489 school board member Nuchelle Chance has submitted her resignation to the school district after moving out of state.She was appointed to the board in January 2020, filling a portion of the remainder of the term of Sophia Rose Young, who also moved out of the school district.Chance's term would have ended in January 2022. That seat is up for election in the November school board race.The school board will officially consider her resignation at its next regular meeting on Aug. 23. At that time, the board will also consider what to do with the vacant seat.

Chance moves, resigns from Hays USD 489 school board

BUNKER HILL – Smoky Hills PBS had the opportunity to catch up with Bob Davis, former voice of the KU Jayhawks, while he was on a book tour throughout Kansas. &nbsp;This conversation will air later this month on Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp;

Jeremy McGuire, Smoky Hills PBS host, sits down with Bob and Jeff Bollig, author of the newly released book&nbsp;The Dream is Real.&nbsp; In this conversation, we learn about Bob’s 48 year career in sports broadcasting and how he started in Hays at Thomas More Prep-Marian and Hays High and then moved on to be the voice of the Fort Hays State University Tigers.&nbsp; We also learn more about his newly released book and how he became known as the voice of the KU Jayhawks. &nbsp;

“This is a must see for everyone,” said Les Kinderknecht, Smoky Hills PBS senior producer/director. “We’ve all heard Bob over the radio, but this is a unique opportunity to see Bob and hear him tell stories of his highly regarded broadcasting career. We want to thank Bob and Jeff for giving Smoky Hills PBS this great opportunity”&nbsp;

A Conversation with Bob Davis&nbsp;will air on Smoky Hills PBS at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug, 21.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628105417280.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SHPTVBUNKER HILL – Smoky Hills PBS had the opportunity to catch up with Bob Davis, former voice of the KU Jayhawks, while he was on a book tour throughout Kansas. &nbsp;This conversation will air later this month on Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp;Jeremy McGuire, Smoky Hills PBS host, sits down with Bob and Jeff Bollig, author of the newly released book&nbsp;The Dream is Real.&nbsp; In this conversation, we learn about Bob’s 48 year career in sports broadcasting and how he started in Hays at Thomas More Prep-Marian and Hays High and then moved on to be the voice of the Fort Hays State University Tigers.&nbsp; We also learn more about his newly released book and how he became known as the voice of the KU Jayhawks. &nbsp;“This is a must see for everyone,” said Les Kinderknecht, Smoky Hills PBS senior producer/director. “We’ve all heard Bob over the radio, but this is a unique opportunity to see Bob and hear him tell stories of his highly regarded broadcasting career. We want to thank Bob and Jeff for giving Smoky Hills PBS this great opportunity”&nbsp;A Conversation with Bob Davis&nbsp;will air on Smoky Hills PBS at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug, 21.

'A Conversation with Bob Davis' set to air on Smoky Hills PBS

The Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 8 traffic stops Monday, Aug. 2, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Mental
Health Call—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 8:34 AM 
Welfare Check—300 block E 18th St, Hays; 8:57 AM 
Identity Theft—1500 block Haney Dr, Hays; 9:31 AM 
Animal At Large—500 block E 18th St, Hays; 9:33 AM 
Tethering Violation—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 11:13 AM 
Found/Lost Property--4900 block Vine St, Hays; 11:18 AM 
Animal Bite Investigation—400 block Santa Fe St, Hays; 12:18 PM 
Phone/Mail Scam—2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 1:59 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 9:30 PM 
Suspicious Activity—200 block W 43rd St, Hays; 10:42 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 8 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

44 - Traffic
Stop--1400 block Elm St, Hays; 12:08 AM 
Drug Offenses/DUI—3300 block Vine St, Hays; 2:11 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 8:53 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1900 block Vine St, Hays; 11:55 AM 
Animal At Large—1400 block Old Hwy 40 Bypass, Hays; 11:58 AM 
Shoplifting—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 12:48 PM 
Civil Dispute—300 block W 20th St, Hays; 1:58 PM 
Disturbance – Fight—2500 block Sherman Ave, Hays; 8/1 10:30 AM; 10:35 AM 
Juvenile Complaint—1300 block Western Plains Dr, Hays; 3:21 PM 
Found/Lost Property--400 block Pine St, Hays; 3:58 PM 
Water Use Violation--1900 block E 25th St, Hays; 4:50 PM; 5:10 
Water Use Violation—2500 block Haney Dr, Hays; 5:06 PM; 5:12 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block W 10th St, Hay; 9:24 PM 
Littering--15th St and Elm St, Hays; 10:23 PM 
Criminal Threat—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:38 PM; 9:50 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 8 animal calls and conducted 14 traffic stops Wednesday, Aug. 4, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Disturbance –
Noise—400 block W 14th St, Hays; 7:39 AM 
Animal At Large—1900 block Vine St, Hays; 7:58 AM 
Animal At Larg—300 block W 10th St, Hays; 8:51 AM 
Drug Offenses—2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 10:41 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 12:07 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 6th St, Hay; 4:03 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—2000 block Metro Ln, Hays; 9:45 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--1300 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 11:05 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 8 traffic stops Monday, Aug. 2, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Mental
Health Call—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 8:34 AM 
Welfare Check—300 block E 18th St, Hays; 8:57 AM 
Identity Theft—1500 block Haney Dr, Hays; 9:31 AM 
Animal At Large—500 block E 18th St, Hays; 9:33 AM 
Tethering Violation—1000 block Reservation Rd, Hays; 11:13 AM 
Found/Lost Property--4900 block Vine St, Hays; 11:18 AM 
Animal Bite Investigation—400 block Santa Fe St, Hays; 12:18 PM 
Phone/Mail Scam—2700 block Colonial St, Hays; 1:59 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1300 block MacArthur Rd, Hays; 9:30 PM 
Suspicious Activity—200 block W 43rd St, Hays; 10:42 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 8 animal calls and conducted 15 traffic stops Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.44 - Traffic
Stop--1400 block Elm St, Hays; 12:08 AM 
Drug Offenses/DUI—3300 block Vine St, Hays; 2:11 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)—500 block E 8th St, Hays; 8:53 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1900 block Vine St, Hays; 11:55 AM 
Animal At Large—1400 block Old Hwy 40 Bypass, Hays; 11:58 AM 
Shoplifting—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 12:48 PM 
Civil Dispute—300 block W 20th St, Hays; 1:58 PM 
Disturbance – Fight—2500 block Sherman Ave, Hays; 8/1 10:30 AM; 10:35 AM 
Juvenile Complaint—1300 block Western Plains Dr, Hays; 3:21 PM 
Found/Lost Property--400 block Pine St, Hays; 3:58 PM 
Water Use Violation--1900 block E 25th St, Hays; 4:50 PM; 5:10 
Water Use Violation—2500 block Haney Dr, Hays; 5:06 PM; 5:12 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--400 block W 10th St, Hay; 9:24 PM 
Littering--15th St and Elm St, Hays; 10:23 PM 
Criminal Threat—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 9:38 PM; 9:50 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 8 animal calls and conducted 14 traffic stops Wednesday, Aug. 4, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Disturbance –
Noise—400 block W 14th St, Hays; 7:39 AM 
Animal At Large—1900 block Vine St, Hays; 7:58 AM 
Animal At Larg—300 block W 10th St, Hays; 8:51 AM 
Drug Offenses—2800 block Grant Ave, Hays; 10:41 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—500 block E 20th St, Hays; 12:07 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 6th St, Hay; 4:03 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—2000 block Metro Ln, Hays; 9:45 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--1300 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 11:05 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Log, Aug. 2-4

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher Customer reviews are a staple in the digital world. If you cannot see a product in person, the next best thing is reading about another person’s experience. The trust we instinctively place in each other’s opinions and observations are not limited to product reviews. Our everyday conversations leave impressions we probably never think about. Years ago, I took friends home to visit my family in Wisconsin.&nbsp; I was completely unaware of my friends’ apprehensions created by the colorful stories shared of my childhood home and adventures. I was slightly embarrassed to learn how relieved they were when we pulled into the yard of a perfectly normal country home instead of the “two double-wide trailers stacked on top of each other” they were expecting. Some self-reflection helped me to realize I was sharing only entertaining stories about the quirky habits of my family, mischievous adventures my siblings and I undertook, and my dad’s impressive levels of inventiveness and ingenuity. I never really talked about more objectively normal things. It can be so easy to forget that during everyday interactions with people we often unintentionally become the expert for what others have not experienced. Someone who has never visited your town, will likely believe whatever you say about it and may remember what you said if ever asked about it in the future. Since taking my friends home, I have become a much better advocate for my home community, and I am much more conscious of whom I choose to share the quirky but funny stories about my home. The power and obligation to influence others opinions about our community has been on my mind lately because of a conversation I had at a recent networking event. While visiting with the manager of a facility that employs several people locally, I quickly realized he was a kindred spirit. Instead of nodding politely with a blank stare when I extolled the virtues of my community, he lit-up, sharing that he had been moved here from the East and fallen in love with Kansas because of the affordable housing, high quality of life and the truly “Midwest nice” people. In fact, many of his family members had followed him here because of his praise for the area. What he told me next has been replaying in my mind ever since. He has been working to change culture within his facility; to get his employees to stop griping or saying uncomplimentary things about the area because he does not want corporate to move the facility because no one wants to live there. Many of the people at his corporate office have never been here; they rely on the opinions of local workers often gleaned from casual conversation to form an opinion of the community. If they ever have to consider closing a facility, he wants to make sure they know how wonderful his community is and how much employees are thriving so they will want to continue doing business here. Just like with the product reviews, the opinions and observations of people living in a place are likely to be the deciding factor for someone to visit, move to or start a business there. The simple act of restraining from complaints or comparisons to other towns shows positivity. Sharing about your great community assets or the ways you and others are working to make it better creates images of a thriving community. Most outsiders aren’t going to seek out community officials to learn about your town. They are going to listen to the experts. What will you tell them?

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher Customer reviews are a staple in the digital world. If you cannot see a product in person, the next best thing is reading about another person’s experience. The trust we instinctively place in each other’s opinions and observations are not limited to product reviews. Our everyday conversations leave impressions we probably never think about. Years ago, I took friends home to visit my family in Wisconsin.&nbsp; I was completely unaware of my friends’ apprehensions created by the colorful stories shared of my childhood home and adventures. I was slightly embarrassed to learn how relieved they were when we pulled into the yard of a perfectly normal country home instead of the “two double-wide trailers stacked on top of each other” they were expecting. Some self-reflection helped me to realize I was sharing only entertaining stories about the quirky habits of my family, mischievous adventures my siblings and I undertook, and my dad’s impressive levels of inventiveness and ingenuity. I never really talked about more objectively normal things. It can be so easy to forget that during everyday interactions with people we often unintentionally become the expert for what others have not experienced. Someone who has never visited your town, will likely believe whatever you say about it and may remember what you said if ever asked about it in the future. Since taking my friends home, I have become a much better advocate for my home community, and I am much more conscious of whom I choose to share the quirky but funny stories about my home. The power and obligation to influence others opinions about our community has been on my mind lately because of a conversation I had at a recent networking event. While visiting with the manager of a facility that employs several people locally, I quickly realized he was a kindred spirit. Instead of nodding politely with a blank stare when I extolled the virtues of my community, he lit-up, sharing that he had been moved here from the East and fallen in love with Kansas because of the affordable housing, high quality of life and the truly “Midwest nice” people. In fact, many of his family members had followed him here because of his praise for the area. What he told me next has been replaying in my mind ever since. He has been working to change culture within his facility; to get his employees to stop griping or saying uncomplimentary things about the area because he does not want corporate to move the facility because no one wants to live there. Many of the people at his corporate office have never been here; they rely on the opinions of local workers often gleaned from casual conversation to form an opinion of the community. If they ever have to consider closing a facility, he wants to make sure they know how wonderful his community is and how much employees are thriving so they will want to continue doing business here. Just like with the product reviews, the opinions and observations of people living in a place are likely to be the deciding factor for someone to visit, move to or start a business there. The simple act of restraining from complaints or comparisons to other towns shows positivity. Sharing about your great community assets or the ways you and others are working to make it better creates images of a thriving community. Most outsiders aren’t going to seek out community officials to learn about your town. They are going to listen to the experts. What will you tell them?"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Hometown reviews

Three-day weather outlook

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Bureau of Waste Management has announced the recipients of solid waste reduction grants, which include the town of Ellis, and Gove and Rawlins counties . 

These annual solid waste grants are awarded to cities, counties and private entities across the state. 

The grants total nearly $450,800 for 2022 and incorporate recycling, source reduction, waste minimization and public education. This year’s 29 grants aware awarded to 24 organizations and range from $2,050 to $73,653. 

The grants are funded through a $1/ton waste disposal fee. The grantees are listed below. For information about their projects and dollar amounts awarded, please visit our website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdheks.gov/waste/grants/AwardsSFY2022.pdf">https://www.kdheks.gov/waste/grants/AwardsSFY2022.pdf</a>

City of Ellis, Ellis County - $17,000 for forklift

City of Pittsburg – KS Stormwater Department, Crawford County

Cloud County Recycle Center, Cloud County

Edwards County Conservation District, Edwards County

Gove County, Gove County -$ 18,000 for recycling trailer and mesh pull behind trailer based in Park

Lake Region Solid Waste Authority, Miami County

Linn County Kansas Solid Waste, Linn County

Rawlins County, Rawlins
County - $12,000 for baler at Atwood recycling center&nbsp;

Southeast Kansas Recycling Inc., Crawford County

Sunflower Diversified
Services Inc., Barton County

Twin Valley Developmental Services Inc., Marshall County

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628527068108.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Bureau of Waste Management has announced the recipients of solid waste reduction grants, which include the town of Ellis, and Gove and Rawlins counties . These annual solid waste grants are awarded to cities, counties and private entities across the state. The grants total nearly $450,800 for 2022 and incorporate recycling, source reduction, waste minimization and public education. This year’s 29 grants aware awarded to 24 organizations and range from $2,050 to $73,653. The grants are funded through a $1/ton waste disposal fee. The grantees are listed below. For information about their projects and dollar amounts awarded, please visit our website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdheks.gov/waste/grants/AwardsSFY2022.pdf">https://www.kdheks.gov/waste/grants/AwardsSFY2022.pdf</a>Barton
County, Barton CountyCity of Columbus, Cherokee CountyCity of Dodge City, Ford CountyCity of Ellis, Ellis County - $17,000 for forkliftCity of Leavenworth, Leavenworth CountyCity of Pittsburg – KS Stormwater Department, Crawford CountyCloud County Recycle Center, Cloud CountyEdwards County Conservation District, Edwards CountyFood Cycle KC, Johnson CountyGove County, Gove County -$ 18,000 for recycling trailer and mesh pull behind trailer based in ParkKC Can Compost, Johnson CountyLake Region Solid Waste Authority, Miami CountyLinn County Kansas Solid Waste, Linn CountyMissouri Organic Recycling, Kansas CityNudge Compost, Sedgwick CountyRawlins County, Rawlins
County - $12,000 for baler at Atwood recycling center&nbsp;Republic County, Republic CountyRiley County, Riley CountySoutheast Kansas Recycling Inc., Crawford CountyStanton County, Stanton CountySunflower Diversified
Services Inc., Barton CountyTri-Ko, Miami CountyTwin Valley Developmental Services Inc., Marshall CountyWashington County, Washington County

Gove and Rawlins counties, Ellis receive state waste reduction grants

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp; — All you need to know about this year's Kansas State Fair is now available at <a href="https://ss-usa.s3.amazonaws.com/c/308481169/media/2177610daf29b336d51884024635734/2021%20Visitors%20Guide.pdf?utm_source=SharpSpring&amp;utm_medium=Email&amp;utm_campaign=Visitor+Guide&amp;utm_id=State+Fair&amp;sslid=Mzc0MTQzNDY1NLMwAgA&amp;sseid=MzKyMLA0NLE0MQMA&amp;jobid=f3c583d2-93e2-4f53-8021-69b92c0c191f">kanssstatefair.com</a>.&nbsp;

The guide will give you the daily schedule, a list of free entertainment, new contests and ticket deals. Paper copies of the guide should be available at all Dillons stores by Aug. 20. Dillons stores also offer discount rides and admission tickets at all stores. Those ticket discounts are also available at <a href="https://ss-usa.s3.amazonaws.com/c/308481169/media/2177610daf29b336d51884024635734/2021%20Visitors%20Guide.pdf?utm_source=SharpSpring&amp;utm_medium=Email&amp;utm_campaign=Visitor+Guide&amp;utm_id=State+Fair&amp;sslid=Mzc0MTQzNDY1NLMwAgA&amp;sseid=MzKyMLA0NLE0MQMA&amp;jobid=f3c583d2-93e2-4f53-8021-69b92c0c191f">kansasstatefair.com</a>.

Free gate admission is still available with any grandstand entertainment ticket purchased. That deal runs through Sunday, Aug. 15.&nbsp;

If you have questions, visit the <a href="https://www.kansasstatefair.com/">fair's website</a> or call the ticket office at 620-662-3618.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628624963749.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp; — All you need to know about this year's Kansas State Fair is now available at <a href="https://ss-usa.s3.amazonaws.com/c/308481169/media/2177610daf29b336d51884024635734/2021%20Visitors%20Guide.pdf?utm_source=SharpSpring&amp;utm_medium=Email&amp;utm_campaign=Visitor+Guide&amp;utm_id=State+Fair&amp;sslid=Mzc0MTQzNDY1NLMwAgA&amp;sseid=MzKyMLA0NLE0MQMA&amp;jobid=f3c583d2-93e2-4f53-8021-69b92c0c191f">kanssstatefair.com</a>.&nbsp;The guide will give you the daily schedule, a list of free entertainment, new contests and ticket deals. Paper copies of the guide should be available at all Dillons stores by Aug. 20. Dillons stores also offer discount rides and admission tickets at all stores. Those ticket discounts are also available at <a href="https://ss-usa.s3.amazonaws.com/c/308481169/media/2177610daf29b336d51884024635734/2021%20Visitors%20Guide.pdf?utm_source=SharpSpring&amp;utm_medium=Email&amp;utm_campaign=Visitor+Guide&amp;utm_id=State+Fair&amp;sslid=Mzc0MTQzNDY1NLMwAgA&amp;sseid=MzKyMLA0NLE0MQMA&amp;jobid=f3c583d2-93e2-4f53-8021-69b92c0c191f">kansasstatefair.com</a>.Free gate admission is still available with any grandstand entertainment ticket purchased. That deal runs through Sunday, Aug. 15.&nbsp;If you have questions, visit the <a href="https://www.kansasstatefair.com/">fair's website</a> or call the ticket office at 620-662-3618.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

State fair visitors guide available online

By TOMMY REZAC <a href="https://stjosephpost.com">St. Joseph Post</a>

The Kansas City Chiefs practiced in helmets and shorts at training camp Tuesday before they take a day off Wednesday.

It
 appeared weather was going to perhaps move practice indoors. Gusty 
winds and off-and-on rain persisted throughout most of Tuesday's 
session, but the team stayed outside and fans were eventually let in 
once the worst of the storm had passed.

The team had a 10-10-10 
practice - 10 minutes of offensive plays, 10 minutes of defensive plays,
 followed by 10 minutes of special teams work and repeat.

Only one
 more practice on Thursday stands between the Chiefs and their first 
preseason game at San Francisco, which is Saturday at 7:30 p.m. central.

Defensive
 coordinator Steve Spagnuolo says his biggest message to the younger 
players going into that game is don’t forget everything you’ve learned 
in training camp.

"They'll forget all of the leverage and all of 
the things that we've taught them and have gotten really good at," 
Spagnuolo said. "They go out there and all of a sudden in a game, 
sometimes they can go off the radar. So, to me, I tell them to stick to 
the fundamentals and we'll build on it. Don't abort what you've done 
here in the last couple of weeks."

One player on the offensive 
side who's excited to showcase what he can do is left tackle and Pro 
Bowler Orlando Brown, Jr. who was acquired by the Chiefs in a trade with
 the Ravens this offseason.

"I'm just super excited to get out 
there and do my job to the best of my ability," Brown said. "It gives me
 an opportunity to showcase to the fans to the organization and to my 
teammates what they got and I'm super excited to get out there."&nbsp;

Brown
 was a three-year starter for the Ravens and started out as a right 
tackle. While he's been learning a more pass-protection heavy offensive 
scheme under Andy Reid, Brown hopes he can set the tone and impress 
people, no matter how many snaps he gets in the first game.

"I 
don't know how long I'll be out there, but however long it is, I'm going
 to give it my all," said Brown. "So, I just look forward to being able 
to showcase and express all of those different things about my game."

Brown
 also gave credit to rookies Trey Smith, Lucas Niang and Creed Humphrey,
 who have been working alongside him in the first-team offensive line 
for the last couple of weeks.

"For them to do what they're able to is something special," Brown said.

The
 Chiefs play at San Francisco on Saturday at 7:30. The game will be 
carried on KFEQ (680 AM, 95.3 FM) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

The
 fourth-year pro has been impressive at the receiver spot this camp, 
making a number of nice plays with both the first and second-team 
offense.

This comes after Kemp missed the entire 2019 season with 
an ACL and MCL injury. He had to fight to stay on the roster in 2020, 
coming on and off the practice squad before resigning with Kansas City 
in March.

Going into his fifth season with the Chiefs, Kemp hopes 
that his entire position group can continue to improve as they get 
closer to the season.

"That's what I'm hoping for," Kemp said. 
"That we can all just do well and that'll pool to the season. Whether 
I'm here or not, it'll help them through the season or me with the 
season. So, it's more about how well we can do personally and less about
 how competitive we can be with each other."

Chad Henne, who's 
solidified his spot as top backup to Patrick Mahomes, has developed 
quite a nice chemistry with Kemp over these last two weeks or so.

"He
 knows the system and knows the right spots and where to be," Henne said
 of Kemp. "He's got a lot of talent. He goes up and gets the ball each 
and every time. I'm thankful he's in with me a lot of times."

Kemp
 has also been a contributor in special teams. In fact, special teams 
coach Dave Toub says Kemp is one of their "top gunner" options on kick 
and punt return coverage.

"If that's what I need to do to get 
better is be out there three hours before the game to work on something 
that I didn't think I was the best at, then that's what I need to do," 
said Kemp. "So, that's what I've continued to do, and at this point, 
(playing special teams) has become a tradition more than anything else."

No
 news is good news. No new injuries to report from Tuesday. Running back
 Darrel Williams returned after missing Monday with a knee injury.

Kyle
 Long (knee), Evan Baylis (ankle), Mike Remmers (back), Alex Okafor 
(hamstring), Malik Herring (knee), Antonio Callaway (bone bruise) and 
Willie Gay (concussion protocol) are still in active. Gay did come to 
the field with his helmet, but went straight to the medical tent.

The Chiefs return to practice Thursday and then again next Monday. Training camp concludes August 18.

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628624394991.jpeg" alt="Storm clouds pass by the Mosaic Training Fields on the Missouri Western campus Tuesday as the Chiefs get warmed up on the field. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Storm clouds pass by the Mosaic Training Fields on the Missouri Western campus Tuesday as the Chiefs get warmed up on the field. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZAC <a href="https://stjosephpost.com">St. Joseph Post</a>The Kansas City Chiefs practiced in helmets and shorts at training camp Tuesday before they take a day off Wednesday.It
 appeared weather was going to perhaps move practice indoors. Gusty 
winds and off-and-on rain persisted throughout most of Tuesday's 
session, but the team stayed outside and fans were eventually let in 
once the worst of the storm had passed.The team had a 10-10-10 
practice - 10 minutes of offensive plays, 10 minutes of defensive plays,
 followed by 10 minutes of special teams work and repeat.Only one
 more practice on Thursday stands between the Chiefs and their first 
preseason game at San Francisco, which is Saturday at 7:30 p.m. central.Defensive
 coordinator Steve Spagnuolo says his biggest message to the younger 
players going into that game is don’t forget everything you’ve learned 
in training camp."They'll forget all of the leverage and all of 
the things that we've taught them and have gotten really good at," 
Spagnuolo said. "They go out there and all of a sudden in a game, 
sometimes they can go off the radar. So, to me, I tell them to stick to 
the fundamentals and we'll build on it. Don't abort what you've done 
here in the last couple of weeks."One player on the offensive 
side who's excited to showcase what he can do is left tackle and Pro 
Bowler Orlando Brown, Jr. who was acquired by the Chiefs in a trade with
 the Ravens this offseason."I'm just super excited to get out 
there and do my job to the best of my ability," Brown said. "It gives me
 an opportunity to showcase to the fans to the organization and to my 
teammates what they got and I'm super excited to get out there."&nbsp;Brown
 was a three-year starter for the Ravens and started out as a right 
tackle. While he's been learning a more pass-protection heavy offensive 
scheme under Andy Reid, Brown hopes he can set the tone and impress 
people, no matter how many snaps he gets in the first game."I 
don't know how long I'll be out there, but however long it is, I'm going
 to give it my all," said Brown. "So, I just look forward to being able 
to showcase and express all of those different things about my game."Brown
 also gave credit to rookies Trey Smith, Lucas Niang and Creed Humphrey,
 who have been working alongside him in the first-team offensive line 
for the last couple of weeks."For them to do what they're able to is something special," Brown said.The
 Chiefs play at San Francisco on Saturday at 7:30. The game will be 
carried on KFEQ (680 AM, 95.3 FM) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.<h2>Marcus Kemp</h2>The
 fourth-year pro has been impressive at the receiver spot this camp, 
making a number of nice plays with both the first and second-team 
offense.This comes after Kemp missed the entire 2019 season with 
an ACL and MCL injury. He had to fight to stay on the roster in 2020, 
coming on and off the practice squad before resigning with Kansas City 
in March.Going into his fifth season with the Chiefs, Kemp hopes 
that his entire position group can continue to improve as they get 
closer to the season."That's what I'm hoping for," Kemp said. 
"That we can all just do well and that'll pool to the season. Whether 
I'm here or not, it'll help them through the season or me with the 
season. So, it's more about how well we can do personally and less about
 how competitive we can be with each other."Chad Henne, who's 
solidified his spot as top backup to Patrick Mahomes, has developed 
quite a nice chemistry with Kemp over these last two weeks or so."He
 knows the system and knows the right spots and where to be," Henne said
 of Kemp. "He's got a lot of talent. He goes up and gets the ball each 
and every time. I'm thankful he's in with me a lot of times."Kemp
 has also been a contributor in special teams. In fact, special teams 
coach Dave Toub says Kemp is one of their "top gunner" options on kick 
and punt return coverage."If that's what I need to do to get 
better is be out there three hours before the game to work on something 
that I didn't think I was the best at, then that's what I need to do," 
said Kemp. "So, that's what I've continued to do, and at this point, 
(playing special teams) has become a tradition more than anything else."<h2>No new injuries</h2>No
 news is good news. No new injuries to report from Tuesday. Running back
 Darrel Williams returned after missing Monday with a knee injury.Kyle
 Long (knee), Evan Baylis (ankle), Mike Remmers (back), Alex Okafor 
(hamstring), Malik Herring (knee), Antonio Callaway (bone bruise) and 
Willie Gay (concussion protocol) are still in active. Gay did come to 
the field with his helmet, but went straight to the medical tent.The Chiefs return to practice Thursday and then again next Monday. Training camp concludes August 18.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628623165677.jpeg" alt="Orlando Brown Jr." />
 <figcaption>Orlando Brown Jr.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628623239643.jpeg" alt="Chad Henne (center) throws a ball in warm-ups while Patrick Mahomes (left) looks on." />
 <figcaption>Chad Henne (center) throws a ball in warm-ups while Patrick Mahomes (left) looks on.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Chiefs look toward first preseason game at San Francisco

The Hays USD 489 school board will meet for a special session at noon Thursday to discuss its COVID prevention plan for the upcoming school year.

The final draft of that plan has yet to be released to the public.

Superintendent Ron Wilson told Hays Post via email Tuesday the school district intends to start the school year without a mask requirement.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board will meet for a special session at noon Thursday to discuss its COVID prevention plan for the upcoming school year.The final draft of that plan has yet to be released to the public.Superintendent Ron Wilson told Hays Post via email Tuesday the school district intends to start the school year without a mask requirement.

Hays USD 489 says it will not require masks; BOE to meet to discuss COVID prevention

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger, along with Rose Garden Banquet Hall and Catering owner Kim Barnes, share details about the upcoming Education Appreciation event.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Preparations underway for Chamber's Education Appreciation event" 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=x723i-10af684-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger, along with Rose Garden Banquet Hall and Catering owner Kim Barnes, share details about the upcoming Education Appreciation event.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Preparations underway for Education Appreciation event

WASHINGTON, D.C. - First District Rep. Tracey Mann, R-Kansas, is scheduled to host 17 town hall meetings with constituents Wednesday through Friday.

Mann will be in Hays Thursday at 1:30 p.m. at High Plains Farm Credit, 2905 Vine.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611836622184.jpeg" alt="First District Congressman Tracey Mann, R-Kansas" />
 <figcaption>First District Congressman Tracey Mann, R-Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Rep. MannWASHINGTON, D.C. - First District Rep. Tracey Mann, R-Kansas, is scheduled to host 17 town hall meetings with constituents Wednesday through Friday.Mann will be in Hays Thursday at 1:30 p.m. at High Plains Farm Credit, 2905 Vine.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628589621817.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628589645797.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628589681015.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Rep. Mann to host 17 town hall meetings across Big First District, including Hays

VICTORIA—Soon, area residents will have a new place to grab some classic breakfast and lunch items with the opening of Fork That Bakery, 201 E. Main.&nbsp;

But more than just a place for a quick bite to eat or a cup of coffee, owner Brooke Olson hopes the bakery will become a hub of activity for the community.

And if early interest is any indication, she may soon get her wish.

As Olson has been working to ready the bakery for opening, starting with work on the building which was previously home to a chain pizza restaurant, many in the community have stopped by to check in, curious about what the new business will be and also offering to help out if needed.

 "I would have to lock the door just to get things done," Olson said as people continued to stop by to check out the progress. 

"Which is awesome that they are that excited," she said.

That excitement also helped her to decide to push up the opening timeline.

"Our business plan had been to wait a little while longer, but the community feedback has been so good that we think we are ready now," Olsen said.

Currently, she plans to open on August 19, with a ribbon-cutting scheduled for August 21.

With the building sitting empty for several years, Olson said a lot of work was needed to be ready to open, something Olson took on personally after purchasing the building.

"We have done everything that has been done," she said.

That work included refinishing built-in wood trim, painting, installing new light fixtures and setting up the kitchen from scratch.

"We had to call a guy to even get the doors to open," Olson said. "So we are going to slowly continue to remodel because it couldn't be an all-in-one project."

While this will be the first brick-and-mortar location for Olson, she has worked as a caterer in the area, practicing the craft from a home-based kitchen.

"Our food is very homemade," Olson said. "I like to do it myself. I like to work with my hands. We can't manufacture as someone else does, and we don't plan to."

While not currently living in Victoria, but with children in the school district, she said she wanted to bring something to the town that is not currently available.

"It's definitely more a small-town feel," Olson said. "What is here, they do well...so we are not trying to compete.

"But we thought they could use something else."

The menu, she said, is starting with staple breakfast and lunch items, including harvest meals so that travelers can get a hot meal every day.

Like any good bakery, she said she will offer a variety of breads, including gluten conscious and keto bread, which can be used on any sandwich on the lunch menu.

And the bakery will have a full coffee menu, where dine-in customers can get a cup of "regular" coffee for just 35 cents.

"We also have several selections of loose leaf tea that we are offering too," Olson said.

If locals take to the new shop, Olson said expansion is possible as she continues to fine-tune operations to fit customer needs.

"We would like to still be doing what we are starting off with, but we also want to open up to evenings and doing dinners," she said. "We have a huge backyard and patio area, where we want to be able to open that up and get it remodeled and give it a community place to gather feeling.

"We would really like to be able to do things like having bands in for people to be able to sit and get together."

She is also hopeful that she will be able to launch community meals.

"I think it is something that will go over well once we get to that point," Olson said.

At launch, the bakery will be open Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 3 p.m.

<a href="https://www.forkthatbakery.com/">The full Fork That Bakery menu can be found, along with online ordering and more information about the business at forkthatbakery.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628548005444.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostVICTORIA—Soon, area residents will have a new place to grab some classic breakfast and lunch items with the opening of Fork That Bakery, 201 E. Main.&nbsp;But more than just a place for a quick bite to eat or a cup of coffee, owner Brooke Olson hopes the bakery will become a hub of activity for the community.And if early interest is any indication, she may soon get her wish.As Olson has been working to ready the bakery for opening, starting with work on the building which was previously home to a chain pizza restaurant, many in the community have stopped by to check in, curious about what the new business will be and also offering to help out if needed. "I would have to lock the door just to get things done," Olson said as people continued to stop by to check out the progress. "Which is awesome that they are that excited," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628548029584.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>That excitement also helped her to decide to push up the opening timeline."Our business plan had been to wait a little while longer, but the community feedback has been so good that we think we are ready now," Olsen said.Currently, she plans to open on August 19, with a ribbon-cutting scheduled for August 21.With the building sitting empty for several years, Olson said a lot of work was needed to be ready to open, something Olson took on personally after purchasing the building."We have done everything that has been done," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628548085817.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>That work included refinishing built-in wood trim, painting, installing new light fixtures and setting up the kitchen from scratch."We had to call a guy to even get the doors to open," Olson said. "So we are going to slowly continue to remodel because it couldn't be an all-in-one project."While this will be the first brick-and-mortar location for Olson, she has worked as a caterer in the area, practicing the craft from a home-based kitchen."Our food is very homemade," Olson said. "I like to do it myself. I like to work with my hands. We can't manufacture as someone else does, and we don't plan to."While not currently living in Victoria, but with children in the school district, she said she wanted to bring something to the town that is not currently available.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628548117567.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"It's definitely more a small-town feel," Olson said. "What is here, they do well...so we are not trying to compete."But we thought they could use something else."The menu, she said, is starting with staple breakfast and lunch items, including harvest meals so that travelers can get a hot meal every day.Like any good bakery, she said she will offer a variety of breads, including gluten conscious and keto bread, which can be used on any sandwich on the lunch menu.And the bakery will have a full coffee menu, where dine-in customers can get a cup of "regular" coffee for just 35 cents."We also have several selections of loose leaf tea that we are offering too," Olson said.If locals take to the new shop, Olson said expansion is possible as she continues to fine-tune operations to fit customer needs."We would like to still be doing what we are starting off with, but we also want to open up to evenings and doing dinners," she said. "We have a huge backyard and patio area, where we want to be able to open that up and get it remodeled and give it a community place to gather feeling."We would really like to be able to do things like having bands in for people to be able to sit and get together."She is also hopeful that she will be able to launch community meals."I think it is something that will go over well once we get to that point," Olson said.At launch, the bakery will be open Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 3 p.m.<a href="https://www.forkthatbakery.com/">The full Fork That Bakery menu can be found, along with online ordering and more information about the business at forkthatbakery.com.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628547975625.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

More than just food: New Victoria bakery looks to be gathering spot for the community

By JOHN P. TRETBAR The Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association holds its 84th annual Convention &amp; Expo beginning this weekend, Aug. 15 to 17, at Wichita's Century II Convention Center. Members of the Kansas Congressional delegation take part in a panel discussion on "The Changing Face of Energy Policy" on Aug 16 from 10-11 am. Sen. Roger Marshall, Rep. Ron Estes, Rep. Jake LaTurner, and Rep. Tracey Mann will weigh in with KIOGA President Edward Cross moderating. The keynote speaker is former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who addresses the membership luncheon on Monday, Aug. 16, from 12:30 to 2:00 pm. You can find more information, including registration and booth information, at KIOGA's website at (<a href="https://kioga.org/">https://kioga.org/</a>).&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $58.50 per barrel, after dropping 75 cents on Friday. Kansas prices are down nearly $6 per barrel from the first of the Month, but are nearly $20 per barrel higher than at the first of the year.&nbsp; Friday's settlement price for Nymex benchmark crude was $68.28 per barrel, down $3 from a week ago. Prices for both WTI and Brent Crude dropped 7 percent last week, marking the worst weekly price-performance since October. In midday trading Monday, the near-month contract for light sweet crude had dropped another $2 to $66.29 per barrel, a three percent dip for the day. The contract traded as low as $65 earlier in the session. Bank of America said COVID uncertainty remains the biggest challenge for the oil markets. Not only are the Saudis raising production, they're raising prices. Bloomberg reports the world's largest crude-oil exporter is raising U.S. September prices by 10 to 20 cents a barrel. Prices in Asia are going up by anywhere from 20 to 60 cents per barrel. Gas prices continue to rise. The auto club AAA says the monthly national average pump price went from $3.00 per gallon in May to $3.15 in July. The average on Monday was $3.19 per gallon, up more than a dollar from a year ago. The average across Kansas $2.92 per gallon, also up more than a dollar from August of 2020.&nbsp; Intent-to-drill filings in the state are approaching pre-pandemic levels. The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 90 new intent-to-drill notices filed across the Sunflower State last month, which brings the year-to-date total to 630 new intents. That's just shy of the 641 intents filed by the end of July 2019, and well ahead of the 111 notices filed by this time last year. There were four new intents filed in Barton County last month, one in Ellis County, one in Russell County and six in Stafford County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports a slight increase in Kansas drilling activity for the week. The Rig Count in Kansas shows nine active rigs east of Wichita, which is unchanged, and 25 in Western Kansas, which is up two rigs. Drilling continued on one lease in Russell County, and operators are about to spud a new well in Barton County, one in Ellis County, and two in Stafford County. Baker Hughes reported 491 active drilling rigs across the US, an increase of two oil rigs. The count in Wyoming was up three rigs. Texas was down one, while Oklahoma and News Mexico were each up one. Kansas regulators approved 18 new drilling permits for the week, 577 so far this year. There were seven new permits issued in eastern Kansas, and 11 west of Wichita, including one in Russell County and two in Stafford County. Operators last week completed two wells in Ellis County and two in Russell County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 34 newly completed wells statewide, for a year-to-date total of 461. U.S. crude inventories increased last week by nearly four million barrels. The Energy Information Administration reports domestic stockpiles of just over 439 million barrels, or about six percent below the five-year average for this time of year. EIA said gasoline inventories were down more than five million barrels, and are now about three percent below the five-year seasonal average. The government said crude-oil production last week dropped by about 71,000 barrels per day compared to the week before. Domestic output averaged just over 11.17 million barrels per day for the week through July 20th. That's up slightly from the same week a year ago.&nbsp; EIA reported a slight decline in U.S. crude-oil imports last week to 6.4 million barrels per day. Average imports for the last four weeks are nearly 16% higher than the same four weeks a year ago. The Association of American Railroads says total U.S. rail traffic in July was up slightly over a year ago, but the percentage increase was significantly lower than in other recent months. Total rail traffic was up 3.8 percent year-over-year. Oil-by-rail traffic in the U.S. last week was down for the week, but remains more than two percent higher than in the same period last year. AAR reports 10,289 petroleum tankers rolling the rails last week, down 241 tankers from the week before. Canadian oil-by-rail was also down for the week, but was 31% higher than the same week a year ago. One energy consultant says a significant U.S. supply response to soaring prices is practically impossible before the first half of next year without a dramatic increase in drilling rigs. That's because tight oil operators in the major shale basins are running out of wells that are drilled but uncompleted. Rystad Energy's head of shale research says without DUCs, any increases in fracking will now require increases in drilling and thus increases in drilling rigs. In the Permian Basin, only about 1,550 horizontal DUCs remained by the end of June, a 37% decline from a year earlier. The Web site World Oil says the industry could see complete normalization of CUD inventories by this fall. Energy consumption in the United States dropped to a 25-year low last year, driven mainly by the pandemic response. The Energy Information Administration reports average nationwide consumption of 18.1 million barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2020, the lowest level since 1995. EIA's Monthly Energy Review reports petroleum consumption decreased in every energy-consuming sector. Consumption dropped by a record 15% in the transportation sector.

By JOHN P. TRETBAR The Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association holds its 84th annual Convention &amp; Expo beginning this weekend, Aug. 15 to 17, at Wichita's Century II Convention Center. Members of the Kansas Congressional delegation take part in a panel discussion on "The Changing Face of Energy Policy" on Aug 16 from 10-11 am. Sen. Roger Marshall, Rep. Ron Estes, Rep. Jake LaTurner, and Rep. Tracey Mann will weigh in with KIOGA President Edward Cross moderating. The keynote speaker is former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who addresses the membership luncheon on Monday, Aug. 16, from 12:30 to 2:00 pm. You can find more information, including registration and booth information, at KIOGA's website at (<a href="https://kioga.org/">https://kioga.org/</a>).&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $58.50 per barrel, after dropping 75 cents on Friday. Kansas prices are down nearly $6 per barrel from the first of the Month, but are nearly $20 per barrel higher than at the first of the year.&nbsp; Friday's settlement price for Nymex benchmark crude was $68.28 per barrel, down $3 from a week ago. Prices for both WTI and Brent Crude dropped 7 percent last week, marking the worst weekly price-performance since October. In midday trading Monday, the near-month contract for light sweet crude had dropped another $2 to $66.29 per barrel, a three percent dip for the day. The contract traded as low as $65 earlier in the session. Bank of America said COVID uncertainty remains the biggest challenge for the oil markets. Not only are the Saudis raising production, they're raising prices. Bloomberg reports the world's largest crude-oil exporter is raising U.S. September prices by 10 to 20 cents a barrel. Prices in Asia are going up by anywhere from 20 to 60 cents per barrel. Gas prices continue to rise. The auto club AAA says the monthly national average pump price went from $3.00 per gallon in May to $3.15 in July. The average on Monday was $3.19 per gallon, up more than a dollar from a year ago. The average across Kansas $2.92 per gallon, also up more than a dollar from August of 2020.&nbsp; Intent-to-drill filings in the state are approaching pre-pandemic levels. The Kansas Corporation Commission reports 90 new intent-to-drill notices filed across the Sunflower State last month, which brings the year-to-date total to 630 new intents. That's just shy of the 641 intents filed by the end of July 2019, and well ahead of the 111 notices filed by this time last year. There were four new intents filed in Barton County last month, one in Ellis County, one in Russell County and six in Stafford County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports a slight increase in Kansas drilling activity for the week. The Rig Count in Kansas shows nine active rigs east of Wichita, which is unchanged, and 25 in Western Kansas, which is up two rigs. Drilling continued on one lease in Russell County, and operators are about to spud a new well in Barton County, one in Ellis County, and two in Stafford County. Baker Hughes reported 491 active drilling rigs across the US, an increase of two oil rigs. The count in Wyoming was up three rigs. Texas was down one, while Oklahoma and News Mexico were each up one. Kansas regulators approved 18 new drilling permits for the week, 577 so far this year. There were seven new permits issued in eastern Kansas, and 11 west of Wichita, including one in Russell County and two in Stafford County. Operators last week completed two wells in Ellis County and two in Russell County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 34 newly completed wells statewide, for a year-to-date total of 461. U.S. crude inventories increased last week by nearly four million barrels. The Energy Information Administration reports domestic stockpiles of just over 439 million barrels, or about six percent below the five-year average for this time of year. EIA said gasoline inventories were down more than five million barrels, and are now about three percent below the five-year seasonal average. The government said crude-oil production last week dropped by about 71,000 barrels per day compared to the week before. Domestic output averaged just over 11.17 million barrels per day for the week through July 20th. That's up slightly from the same week a year ago.&nbsp; EIA reported a slight decline in U.S. crude-oil imports last week to 6.4 million barrels per day. Average imports for the last four weeks are nearly 16% higher than the same four weeks a year ago. The Association of American Railroads says total U.S. rail traffic in July was up slightly over a year ago, but the percentage increase was significantly lower than in other recent months. Total rail traffic was up 3.8 percent year-over-year. Oil-by-rail traffic in the U.S. last week was down for the week, but remains more than two percent higher than in the same period last year. AAR reports 10,289 petroleum tankers rolling the rails last week, down 241 tankers from the week before. Canadian oil-by-rail was also down for the week, but was 31% higher than the same week a year ago. One energy consultant says a significant U.S. supply response to soaring prices is practically impossible before the first half of next year without a dramatic increase in drilling rigs. That's because tight oil operators in the major shale basins are running out of wells that are drilled but uncompleted. Rystad Energy's head of shale research says without DUCs, any increases in fracking will now require increases in drilling and thus increases in drilling rigs. In the Permian Basin, only about 1,550 horizontal DUCs remained by the end of June, a 37% decline from a year earlier. The Web site World Oil says the industry could see complete normalization of CUD inventories by this fall. Energy consumption in the United States dropped to a 25-year low last year, driven mainly by the pandemic response. The Energy Information Administration reports average nationwide consumption of 18.1 million barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2020, the lowest level since 1995. EIA's Monthly Energy Review reports petroleum consumption decreased in every energy-consuming sector. Consumption dropped by a record 15% in the transportation sector.

News from the Oil Patch: Crude prices tumble

Child development expert says it’s OK for parents to express their own anxiety&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — The transition back to school during the past year’s pandemic was tough on a lot of people, but just in case you think last year’s challenges are behind us, we have some bad news.&nbsp;

In fact, this year’s transition could be equally demanding, even in cases where mask mandates, social distancing and hybrid learning are not in play.&nbsp;

For starters, Kansas State University child development specialist Bradford Wiles notes that more children than normal could be experiencing in-class school for the first time. Whereas in most years, it’s the preschoolers and kindergarteners heading off to their first day in a strange place, this year creates that same challenge for first graders – some of whom may have spent last year learning entirely from home.&nbsp;

“There’s going to be differences when children return to school,” Wiles said. “They already have this generalized, underlying anxiety about going back to school. We all had that when we were young. It’s new. It’s different.&nbsp;

“But then layering on top of that is the uncertainty of what school is going to look like, who’s going to be there, who’s not. That can really cause some difficulties for children to process what’s going on.”&nbsp;

This is the time for parents to continue being diligent about talking with their children, Wiles said. “Of all the times that we need parents to be really responsive and really invested in what their children are feeling, it’s right now,” he said.&nbsp;

“As adults, we tend to think about thoughts as opposed to emotions, a little bit more. But&nbsp;&nbsp;now is the time when, as parents, we need to have conversations with our children about their feelings.”

"Anxiety" appropriately describes what children may be feeling as the first day of school approaches, “but we don’t want to call it anxieties” when talking with children, Wiles said.&nbsp;

“You want to ask, ‘What are you afraid of?’ or ‘Is there something I can do to help you understand what’s going on?’ ” he said.&nbsp;

Parents who feel anxious don’t need to hide those emotions. Wiles said it’s OK for parents to admit that they, too, feel anxiety or have certain fears in sending their children back to school.&nbsp;

“You don’t want to go overboard, of course,” Wiles said. “You want to talk about how you’re feeling, but not so much show that anxiety. If that happens and your child notices that you’re running around the kitchen re-organizing everything because you’re feeling anxious, then fine, you can address that.&nbsp;

“But really children can learn a ton through age-appropriate conversations. Being able to tell your three-year-old that you’re a little scared too is okay. It’s OK to be scared, but then what do we do when we’re scared? Well, we try to take deep breaths, we try to think of things that aren’t scary; we try to work through and talk through the things that are making us scared and figure out what we’ll do when we get to those things.”&nbsp;

“The best response if you’re scared (as a parent) is to say, ‘I’m scared too. We’ll get through this together.’ ”&nbsp;

Wiles adds that children take very seriously the things that their parents or primary caregiver tell them: “If you say it’s going to be OK, then it’s going to be OK,” he said.&nbsp;

“For parents of younger children, you don’t want to burden them with your own emotional state, but I would recommend that you offer the recognition of a shared understanding.”&nbsp;

Once school begins, Wiles said a good strategy for parents is to ask open-ended questions of children, such as “What was your favorite part of school today?” And, perhaps also share with your child what your favorite part of the day has been.&nbsp;

“You’re connecting,” Wiles said. “And if we approach this new school year that way, we’re going to be in really good shape.”&nbsp;

More information on child development&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hhs.k-state.edu/ahs/extension/child-development">is available online</a>&nbsp;from K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

<h2>Child development expert says it’s OK for parents to express their own anxiety&nbsp;</h2>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionMANHATTAN — The transition back to school during the past year’s pandemic was tough on a lot of people, but just in case you think last year’s challenges are behind us, we have some bad news.&nbsp;They’re not.&nbsp;In fact, this year’s transition could be equally demanding, even in cases where mask mandates, social distancing and hybrid learning are not in play.&nbsp;For starters, Kansas State University child development specialist Bradford Wiles notes that more children than normal could be experiencing in-class school for the first time. Whereas in most years, it’s the preschoolers and kindergarteners heading off to their first day in a strange place, this year creates that same challenge for first graders – some of whom may have spent last year learning entirely from home.&nbsp;“There’s going to be differences when children return to school,” Wiles said. “They already have this generalized, underlying anxiety about going back to school. We all had that when we were young. It’s new. It’s different.&nbsp;“But then layering on top of that is the uncertainty of what school is going to look like, who’s going to be there, who’s not. That can really cause some difficulties for children to process what’s going on.”&nbsp;This is the time for parents to continue being diligent about talking with their children, Wiles said. “Of all the times that we need parents to be really responsive and really invested in what their children are feeling, it’s right now,” he said.&nbsp;“As adults, we tend to think about thoughts as opposed to emotions, a little bit more. But&nbsp;&nbsp;now is the time when, as parents, we need to have conversations with our children about their feelings.”"Anxiety" appropriately describes what children may be feeling as the first day of school approaches, “but we don’t want to call it anxieties” when talking with children, Wiles said.&nbsp;“You want to ask, ‘What are you afraid of?’ or ‘Is there something I can do to help you understand what’s going on?’ ” he said.&nbsp;Parents who feel anxious don’t need to hide those emotions. Wiles said it’s OK for parents to admit that they, too, feel anxiety or have certain fears in sending their children back to school.&nbsp;“You don’t want to go overboard, of course,” Wiles said. “You want to talk about how you’re feeling, but not so much show that anxiety. If that happens and your child notices that you’re running around the kitchen re-organizing everything because you’re feeling anxious, then fine, you can address that.&nbsp;“But really children can learn a ton through age-appropriate conversations. Being able to tell your three-year-old that you’re a little scared too is okay. It’s OK to be scared, but then what do we do when we’re scared? Well, we try to take deep breaths, we try to think of things that aren’t scary; we try to work through and talk through the things that are making us scared and figure out what we’ll do when we get to those things.”&nbsp;“The best response if you’re scared (as a parent) is to say, ‘I’m scared too. We’ll get through this together.’ ”&nbsp;Wiles adds that children take very seriously the things that their parents or primary caregiver tell them: “If you say it’s going to be OK, then it’s going to be OK,” he said.&nbsp;“For parents of younger children, you don’t want to burden them with your own emotional state, but I would recommend that you offer the recognition of a shared understanding.”&nbsp;Once school begins, Wiles said a good strategy for parents is to ask open-ended questions of children, such as “What was your favorite part of school today?” And, perhaps also share with your child what your favorite part of the day has been.&nbsp;“You’re connecting,” Wiles said. “And if we approach this new school year that way, we’re going to be in really good shape.”&nbsp;More information on child development&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hhs.k-state.edu/ahs/extension/child-development">is available online</a>&nbsp;from K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

K-State expert: Talk to children before they head back to school

BY STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Typically, wheat growers will keep back enough of their wheat seed to plant again, but also they may be looking to replace a variety in an effort to reduce seed borne diseases, and to improve genetics for various factors including but not limited to yield and disease prevention.&nbsp;

Each year many county agents put out wheat variety demonstration plots and conduct field days to view and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of varieties and wheat production issues. Most demonstration plots are also harvested.&nbsp;

For further details of the cultural practices of the plot go to our web site at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;This demonstration wheat plot&nbsp;should not be used solely&nbsp;for making your variety selection decisions, it is more for showing and talking about the varieties each year at the field day.

Instead I would highly encourage growers to make your variety selection decisions based on the K-State Agricultural Experiment Stations replicated wheat performance tests. They are randomized replicated trials, meaning each variety is randomly planted in 4 different spots in the field, all seed is either foundation or registered. Replicated field trials will account for or smooth out the variability within a field, and thus are more accurate. These results from the K-State Agricultural Experiment Stations can also be found on our web site.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Yield should not be the only consideration in your selection, and multiple years of data should be considered. Some other important considerations are stripe &amp; leaf rust resistance, drought tolerance, winter hardiness, straw strength, shattering reputation, maturity and test weight. Each grower may differ some in what is most important to them and may add other considerations not mentioned.&nbsp; A good resource is “Wheat Variety Disease and Insect Ratings – MF991” publication that is updated yearly, it will be posted on our web site as well, click onto Crops and Livestock, and look under Hot Topics.

Many thanks to L &amp; N Farming, Victoria – Norbert and Leon Kuhn for their many years of making this plot possible!! And to the following businesses for sponsoring the field day meal – Astra Bank, Bank of Hays, Carrico Implement, Commerce Bank, Emprise Bank, Golden Belt Bank, Golden Belt Coop, Gorham State Bank, High Plains Farm Credit, Lang Diesel, 1st&nbsp;Kansas Bank, Kippes Insurance Agency, Midland Marketing, Sunflower Bank, United Ag Service and A &amp; A Coors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578070283981.png" alt="Stacy Campbell&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>BY STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictTypically, wheat growers will keep back enough of their wheat seed to plant again, but also they may be looking to replace a variety in an effort to reduce seed borne diseases, and to improve genetics for various factors including but not limited to yield and disease prevention.&nbsp;Each year many county agents put out wheat variety demonstration plots and conduct field days to view and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of varieties and wheat production issues. Most demonstration plots are also harvested.&nbsp;For further details of the cultural practices of the plot go to our web site at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;This demonstration wheat plot&nbsp;should not be used solely&nbsp;for making your variety selection decisions, it is more for showing and talking about the varieties each year at the field day.Instead I would highly encourage growers to make your variety selection decisions based on the K-State Agricultural Experiment Stations replicated wheat performance tests. They are randomized replicated trials, meaning each variety is randomly planted in 4 different spots in the field, all seed is either foundation or registered. Replicated field trials will account for or smooth out the variability within a field, and thus are more accurate. These results from the K-State Agricultural Experiment Stations can also be found on our web site.&nbsp;&nbsp;Yield should not be the only consideration in your selection, and multiple years of data should be considered. Some other important considerations are stripe &amp; leaf rust resistance, drought tolerance, winter hardiness, straw strength, shattering reputation, maturity and test weight. Each grower may differ some in what is most important to them and may add other considerations not mentioned.&nbsp; A good resource is “Wheat Variety Disease and Insect Ratings – MF991” publication that is updated yearly, it will be posted on our web site as well, click onto Crops and Livestock, and look under Hot Topics.Many thanks to L &amp; N Farming, Victoria – Norbert and Leon Kuhn for their many years of making this plot possible!! And to the following businesses for sponsoring the field day meal – Astra Bank, Bank of Hays, Carrico Implement, Commerce Bank, Emprise Bank, Golden Belt Bank, Golden Belt Coop, Gorham State Bank, High Plains Farm Credit, Lang Diesel, 1st&nbsp;Kansas Bank, Kippes Insurance Agency, Midland Marketing, Sunflower Bank, United Ag Service and A &amp; A Coors.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628179839014.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

CAMPBELL: Ellis Co. wheat variety demonstration plot

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin work on a resurfacing project on 8 miles of U.S. 36 in Norton County on Aug. 12.

The project area begins at the east K-383 junction and ends at the Phillips County line. Work will include a surface recycle on the existing pavement, followed by a chip seal and installation of centerline rumble strips. Traffic will be reduced to one lane through the work zone and directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should be aware to expect possible delays of up to 15 minutes in the construction area.

KDOT plans to complete the project by the end of September, weather permitting.

Dustrol Inc. of Towanda is the primary contractor for the $912,000 project. For more information, contact KDOT area construction engineer Jim Riener at 785-543-2163 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jim.riener@ks.gov">jim.riener@ks.gov</a>.

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin work on a resurfacing project on 8 miles of U.S. 36 in Norton County on Aug. 12.The project area begins at the east K-383 junction and ends at the Phillips County line. Work will include a surface recycle on the existing pavement, followed by a chip seal and installation of centerline rumble strips. Traffic will be reduced to one lane through the work zone and directed by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should be aware to expect possible delays of up to 15 minutes in the construction area.KDOT plans to complete the project by the end of September, weather permitting.Dustrol Inc. of Towanda is the primary contractor for the $912,000 project. For more information, contact KDOT area construction engineer Jim Riener at 785-543-2163 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jim.riener@ks.gov">jim.riener@ks.gov</a>.

U.S. 36 resurfacing to start in Norton County

The Best Bread recipe had very positive comments and the public could not wait to receive the recipe for the Best Cookie. Congratulations to Logan Leiker and thank you for sharing your recipe. Next week will feature a Cocoa Chiffon Cake exhibited by Kaylee Schumacher. What great bakers we are raising in Ellis County 4-H!&nbsp;

German Chocolate Cookies by Logan Leiker

Ingredients for the cookies:

1/3 cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder

1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature

½ heaping cup sweetened shredded coconut

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp; Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. &nbsp;

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt.

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until well combined and smooth.&nbsp; Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla and beat until combined.&nbsp; On low speed gradually add the flour mixture.&nbsp; Fold in the chocolate chips with a rubber spatula.

Using a medium spring-loaded cookie scoop, drop the dough by 1 ½ tablespoon rounds onto the prepared baking sheets.

Bake for about 10 minutes or until the cookies are set.&nbsp; Let cool on baking sheets for 10 minutes before removing the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.

In a small saucepan set over medium heat combine the milk, sugar, egg yolk and butter.&nbsp; Cook, stirring frequently until the mixture has thickened about 10 minutes.&nbsp; Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, coconut and pecans.&nbsp; Let cool until thick enough to spread on top of the cooled cookies.

Drizzle the melted chocolate all over the cookies.&nbsp; Let everything set for at least 15 minutes before serving.&nbsp; Cookies are best served the day they’re made.

For more information about the 4-H Program in Ellis County, check out the Cottonwood District Extension web page <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a> or contact the Cottonwood District Extension office in Hays, 601 Main Street, Hays, KS or email Susan Schlichting at <a href="mailto:sschlich@ksu.edu">sschlich@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Best Bread recipe had very positive comments and the public could not wait to receive the recipe for the Best Cookie. Congratulations to Logan Leiker and thank you for sharing your recipe. Next week will feature a Cocoa Chiffon Cake exhibited by Kaylee Schumacher. What great bakers we are raising in Ellis County 4-H!&nbsp;German Chocolate Cookies by Logan LeikerIngredients for the cookies:1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour1/3 cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder1 teaspoon baking powder¼ teaspoon salt1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature¾ cup lightly packed dark brown sugar¼ cup granulated sugar1 large egg1 large egg yolk½ teaspoon vanilla extract1 cup semisweet chocolate chipsIngredients for the topping:½ cup evaporated milk½ cup granulated sugar1 large egg yolk4 tablespoons (2 ounces) unsalted butter½ teaspoon vanilla extract½ heaping cup sweetened shredded coconut½ cup chopped pecans2 ounces semisweet chocolate, meltedDirections:Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp; Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. &nbsp;In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt.In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until well combined and smooth.&nbsp; Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla and beat until combined.&nbsp; On low speed gradually add the flour mixture.&nbsp; Fold in the chocolate chips with a rubber spatula.Using a medium spring-loaded cookie scoop, drop the dough by 1 ½ tablespoon rounds onto the prepared baking sheets.Bake for about 10 minutes or until the cookies are set.&nbsp; Let cool on baking sheets for 10 minutes before removing the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.For the topping:In a small saucepan set over medium heat combine the milk, sugar, egg yolk and butter.&nbsp; Cook, stirring frequently until the mixture has thickened about 10 minutes.&nbsp; Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, coconut and pecans.&nbsp; Let cool until thick enough to spread on top of the cooled cookies.Drizzle the melted chocolate all over the cookies.&nbsp; Let everything set for at least 15 minutes before serving.&nbsp; Cookies are best served the day they’re made.For more information about the 4-H Program in Ellis County, check out the Cottonwood District Extension web page <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a> or contact the Cottonwood District Extension office in Hays, 601 Main Street, Hays, KS or email Susan Schlichting at <a href="mailto:sschlich@ksu.edu">sschlich@ksu.edu</a>	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

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