SHERMAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Friday in Goodland.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford F150 driven by Dakota James Smith, 19, Goodland was traveling in the 100 block of west U.S 24 in Goodland.&nbsp; When the driver attempted to turn left into the parking lot of Central Plains Equipment, the pickup struck a westbound 2009 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Ernesto V.Gonzales, 60, Goodland.

EMS transported&nbsp;Gonzales to&nbsp;Goodland Regional Medical Center. Smith was not injured. Gonzales was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

SHERMAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 5p.m. Friday in Goodland.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford F150 driven by Dakota James Smith, 19, Goodland was traveling in the 100 block of west U.S 24 in Goodland.&nbsp; When the driver attempted to turn left into the parking lot of Central Plains Equipment, the pickup struck a westbound 2009 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Ernesto V.Gonzales, 60, Goodland.EMS transported&nbsp;Gonzales to&nbsp;Goodland Regional Medical Center. Smith was not injured. Gonzales was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

Pickup strikes NW Kansas man on motorcycle

Hays High standout Jaren Kanak announced on Twitter Friday that he has committed to play football at Clemson University.

In his tweet, Kanak dedicated the commitment to his late father who was killed in an automobile accident.

"July 30, 2008, my father Jason Alyn Kanek lost his life in an automobile accident. I wanted to honor him and take a day that was once full of tragedy and pain, and make a dream come true on the very day 13 years later."

"God works in mysterious ways and I cannot express how thankful I am for the position I am in today. None of these opportunities would be possible however without the help of family, friends, teammates, coaches, and of course my guardian angel."

Kanak added "I would like to also thank all of the coaches who dedicated their time and effort to recruiting me and express my gratitude for the relationships I built with them. It has been a crazy process and an incredible blessing. With all that being said, I'm excited go announce that after much thought and consideration, I am ALLIN to Clemson University!"

Hays High standout Jaren Kanak announced on Twitter Friday that he has committed to play football at Clemson University.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627690565098.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>In his tweet, Kanak dedicated the commitment to his late father who was killed in an automobile accident."July 30, 2008, my father Jason Alyn Kanek lost his life in an automobile accident. I wanted to honor him and take a day that was once full of tragedy and pain, and make a dream come true on the very day 13 years later.""God works in mysterious ways and I cannot express how thankful I am for the position I am in today. None of these opportunities would be possible however without the help of family, friends, teammates, coaches, and of course my guardian angel."Kanak added "I would like to also thank all of the coaches who dedicated their time and effort to recruiting me and express my gratitude for the relationships I built with them. It has been a crazy process and an incredible blessing. With all that being said, I'm excited go announce that after much thought and consideration, I am ALLIN to Clemson University!"

🏈 Hays High’s Kanak commits to Clemson

PITTSBURG — There’s an old saying in baseball that if you go
to enough games, you’ll see something you’ve never seen before. That was definitely
the case Friday afternoon in the Hays Eagles’ final pool play game against Ottawa
at the state American Legion Baseball Tournament. On another steamy afternoon
with a heat index near 110 degrees, things got even hotter on the field and it
had nothing to do with the weather.

With Hays leading 11-0 after three innings, Kansas American
Legion baseball chairman Steve Queen approached the Eagles dugout and began talking
with Hays head coach Tanner Willhoft and informed him the game was called.

"It's a shame the game had to end the way it did" said Hays Eagles board president Skip Cox. "Our boys were doing everything possible to give themselves a chance to advance to bracket play and had done nothing wrong."

Queen, who is from Ottawa, later explained that he called
the game due to unsportsmanlike play by the Eagles who had stolen home on
consecutive plays to push their lead to 11-0.

The American Legion Baseball Handbook defines "sportsmanship" as any player, coach, manager or other party accompanying a team will be
ejected from the game from the time of the infraction if they use profane language,
throw bats or other equipment, make unnecessary or obscene gestures to umpires,
fans or opposing players or commit unnecessary roughness on the playing field.

The Eagles entered the game 0-2 in pool play after losing
to Pittsburg on Wednesday and in extra innings to the Kansas Senators on
Thursday.&nbsp;The top two teams from each pool advance to Saturday’s single elimination bracket play. The tie-breakers are best record, head-to-head, total runs allowed and total runs scored. If there is still a tie, a coin-flip determines who advances.

They entered Friday's game having allowed 22 runs. The Arrows entered having allowed 11 so at the time the game was called, the two teams had both given up 22 runs in pool play. To advance, the Eagles were going to have to allowed fewer runs than the Arrows and get the Senators to score 17 or more against Pittsburg in Friday's late game.

Queen stated there is a 10-run cap on runs scored and runs allowed in
each game, however this is not stated in the national tournament rules. The Kansas rules state they will go by national policies.

The Eagles got off to a quick start, scoring three runs with
two outs in the bottom of the first. Garrett Wellbrock and Dalton Dale both
singled then scored on Carson Spray’s two-run double. Remington Cox followed
with a single to drive in Spray.

Hays added four more runs in the second. After leading off the
inning with a walk, Bradyn Dreher scored on Ben Krannawitter’s double. Brady
Kreutzer followed with a double which scored Krannawitter. Garrett Wellbrock
doubled to right and later scored on a wild pitch.

The Eagles scored four in the third after their first six
batters reached safely on three walks, two singles and a fielder’s choice.
Caden Morgan drove in the first run with a base hit to left. Kreutzer drew a
bases-loaded walk. Krannawitter and Kreutzer both stole home on consecutive
plays to end the scoring and start the fireworks.

Starter Blake Schmidt left after one inning with arm pain.
Caden Morgan came in relief and pitched two scoreless innings and picked up his
first Senior Legion win.

Wellbrock had two hits while Kreutzer and Spray both drove
in two runs.

Disclosure: Ron Fields and Gerard Wellbrock of Eagle Radio / Hays Post are members of the Hays Eagles board of directors.

Hays PostPITTSBURG — There’s an old saying in baseball that if you go
to enough games, you’ll see something you’ve never seen before. That was definitely
the case Friday afternoon in the Hays Eagles’ final pool play game against Ottawa
at the state American Legion Baseball Tournament. On another steamy afternoon
with a heat index near 110 degrees, things got even hotter on the field and it
had nothing to do with the weather.With Hays leading 11-0 after three innings, Kansas American
Legion baseball chairman Steve Queen approached the Eagles dugout and began talking
with Hays head coach Tanner Willhoft and informed him the game was called.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627682715008.jpeg" alt="Players from the Hays Eagles and Ottawa Arrows talk after their game was called by American Legion Baseball Chairman Steve Queen." />
 <figcaption>Players from the Hays Eagles and Ottawa Arrows talk after their game was called by American Legion Baseball Chairman Steve Queen.</figcaption>
 </figure>"It's a shame the game had to end the way it did" said Hays Eagles board president Skip Cox. "Our boys were doing everything possible to give themselves a chance to advance to bracket play and had done nothing wrong."Queen, who is from Ottawa, later explained that he called
the game due to unsportsmanlike play by the Eagles who had stolen home on
consecutive plays to push their lead to 11-0.The American Legion Baseball Handbook defines "sportsmanship" as any player, coach, manager or other party accompanying a team will be
ejected from the game from the time of the infraction if they use profane language,
throw bats or other equipment, make unnecessary or obscene gestures to umpires,
fans or opposing players or commit unnecessary roughness on the playing field.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627682860212.jpeg" alt="Patches from the Hays Eagles jerseys and batting gloves left on the pitchers mound in protest after game game with Ottawa was called after three innings by American Legion Baseball Chairman Steve Queen." />
 <figcaption>Patches from the Hays Eagles jerseys and batting gloves left on the pitchers mound in protest after game game with Ottawa was called after three innings by American Legion Baseball Chairman Steve Queen.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Eagles entered the game 0-2 in pool play after losing
to Pittsburg on Wednesday and in extra innings to the Kansas Senators on
Thursday.&nbsp;The top two teams from each pool advance to Saturday’s single elimination bracket play. The tie-breakers are best record, head-to-head, total runs allowed and total runs scored. If there is still a tie, a coin-flip determines who advances.They entered Friday's game having allowed 22 runs. The Arrows entered having allowed 11 so at the time the game was called, the two teams had both given up 22 runs in pool play. To advance, the Eagles were going to have to allowed fewer runs than the Arrows and get the Senators to score 17 or more against Pittsburg in Friday's late game.Queen stated there is a 10-run cap on runs scored and runs allowed in
each game, however this is not stated in the national tournament rules. The Kansas rules state they will go by national policies.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1097245450&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/7-30-21-hilights-and-wrap-up" title="Hays Eagles vs. Ottawa Arrows Highlights 073021" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays Eagles vs. Ottawa Arrows Highlights 073021</a></div></div>The Eagles got off to a quick start, scoring three runs with
two outs in the bottom of the first. Garrett Wellbrock and Dalton Dale both
singled then scored on Carson Spray’s two-run double. Remington Cox followed
with a single to drive in Spray.Hays added four more runs in the second. After leading off the
inning with a walk, Bradyn Dreher scored on Ben Krannawitter’s double. Brady
Kreutzer followed with a double which scored Krannawitter. Garrett Wellbrock
doubled to right and later scored on a wild pitch.The Eagles scored four in the third after their first six
batters reached safely on three walks, two singles and a fielder’s choice.
Caden Morgan drove in the first run with a base hit to left. Kreutzer drew a
bases-loaded walk. Krannawitter and Kreutzer both stole home on consecutive
plays to end the scoring and start the fireworks.Starter Blake Schmidt left after one inning with arm pain.
Caden Morgan came in relief and pitched two scoreless innings and picked up his
first Senior Legion win.Wellbrock had two hits while Kreutzer and Spray both drove
in two runs.The Eagles end their season 20-6.Disclosure: Ron Fields and Gerard Wellbrock of Eagle Radio / Hays Post are members of the Hays Eagles board of directors.

⚾ Bizarre ending to Hays Eagles' season at state tournament

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

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

Since reporting began, there have been 3,796 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.

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

Due to an ongoing system upgrade at the KDHE, the latest number of deaths in Ellis County were unavailable.

<div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 Update: July 30, 2021" allowtransparency="true" height="450" 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=qs4dt-10a1679-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported two new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 3,796 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County.As of Friday, the University of Kansas Health System reported eight COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.Due to an ongoing system upgrade at the KDHE, the latest number of deaths in Ellis County were unavailable.

🎙KDHE: Two new virus cases in Ellis Co. since Wednesday

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced a new, updated summary document created from recommendations in KSDE’s&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.iyHktKE-cY06Zx_fWNwAbod3xGv6mg-UEt13KlaFx54/s/1303160919/br/110172382716-l" target="_blank">Navigating Change: Kansas' Guide to Learning and School Safety Operations</a>&nbsp;as a reference guide and tool for schools ahead of the start of classes. The document continues the state’s practice of mirroring guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MzAuNDM5MjE0MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDcvVXBkYXRlZC1HdWlkYW5jZS1mb3ItQ09WSUQtMTktUHJldmVudGlvbi1pbi1LLTEyLVNjaG9vbHMtMDAyLnBkZiJ9.LH75rZN5-wrx5p69vUJViW2BuEG3-qDC0kgK6YduDXI/s/1303160919/br/110172382716-l" target="_blank">Click here to view the updated guidance document</a>

In addition to the guidance, Governor Kelly and KSDE are encouraging school districts to submit requests for&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.NgTqQA844Dw0wkmf0VlgBhSWYCGmrP1WqwOvBvi62c8/s/1303160919/br/110172382716-l" target="_blank">ELC Grant Funds</a>. The state of Kansas received $87 million to fund equipment, testing, and medical staff to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in schools.

“We know our children belong in the classroom, but it’s critical that we provide Kansas school districts with support and tools they need to keep our kids safe,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“This guidance is in line with what we have made available over the last year, but has been modified to incorporate the best information we have to fight the Delta variant. I encourage school districts to follow the science and use the available funds to keep their kids safe.”

Many Kansas school districts have already made requests for ELC funds. Including for clinical and administrative staff as well as equipment with mobile technology to create and support the most flexible COVID-19 testing plans possible. In more rural areas requests include transportation to share staff between school buildings and to transport sick children. Others have opted to use ELC funds for vaccination events including incentives and communications in the community.

“We are thankful for the leadership provided by Governor Kelly and Secretary Norman,"&nbsp;Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson said. "We want every student to be in the classroom this fall. To ensure this happens, school districts should continue partnering with their local medical teams to implement safety protocols that protect all students and school personnel.”

The Kelly Administration worked to develop guidance that would ensure that districts across Kansas would be equipped with the best possible information as they prepared to bring their students back for full-time, in-person learning in August. The Kelly Administration will continue to issue new guidance as information is provided from the CDC.

“To ensure everyone remains safe as schools resume in August, it is key for schools and communities to work together,”&nbsp;Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) said. “We urge school districts to use the ELC resources for additional support. And, we encourage communities to continue taking precautions to mitigate the virus, including vaccination and testing. If individuals are not vaccinated, please wear a mask in public. If you’re feeling sick, get tested, practice social distancing and stay home.”

The State of Kansas began a robust, statewide PSA campaign to encourage Kansans to get vaccinated ahead of the July 4th&nbsp;holiday that will continue throughout year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627665496279.png" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly&nbsp; during Wednesday's news conference.&nbsp;“We know our children belong in the classroom, but it’s critical that we provide Kansas school districts with support and tools they need to keep our kids safe," she said." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly&nbsp; during Wednesday's news conference.&nbsp;“We know our children belong in the classroom, but it’s critical that we provide Kansas school districts with support and tools they need to keep our kids safe," she said.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced a new, updated summary document created from recommendations in KSDE’s&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.iyHktKE-cY06Zx_fWNwAbod3xGv6mg-UEt13KlaFx54/s/1303160919/br/110172382716-l" target="_blank">Navigating Change: Kansas' Guide to Learning and School Safety Operations</a>&nbsp;as a reference guide and tool for schools ahead of the start of classes. The document continues the state’s practice of mirroring guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MzAuNDM5MjE0MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDcvVXBkYXRlZC1HdWlkYW5jZS1mb3ItQ09WSUQtMTktUHJldmVudGlvbi1pbi1LLTEyLVNjaG9vbHMtMDAyLnBkZiJ9.LH75rZN5-wrx5p69vUJViW2BuEG3-qDC0kgK6YduDXI/s/1303160919/br/110172382716-l" target="_blank">Click here to view the updated guidance document</a>In addition to the guidance, Governor Kelly and KSDE are encouraging school districts to submit requests for&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.NgTqQA844Dw0wkmf0VlgBhSWYCGmrP1WqwOvBvi62c8/s/1303160919/br/110172382716-l" target="_blank">ELC Grant Funds</a>. The state of Kansas received $87 million to fund equipment, testing, and medical staff to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in schools.“We know our children belong in the classroom, but it’s critical that we provide Kansas school districts with support and tools they need to keep our kids safe,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“This guidance is in line with what we have made available over the last year, but has been modified to incorporate the best information we have to fight the Delta variant. I encourage school districts to follow the science and use the available funds to keep their kids safe.”Many Kansas school districts have already made requests for ELC funds. Including for clinical and administrative staff as well as equipment with mobile technology to create and support the most flexible COVID-19 testing plans possible. In more rural areas requests include transportation to share staff between school buildings and to transport sick children. Others have opted to use ELC funds for vaccination events including incentives and communications in the community.“We are thankful for the leadership provided by Governor Kelly and Secretary Norman,"&nbsp;Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson said. "We want every student to be in the classroom this fall. To ensure this happens, school districts should continue partnering with their local medical teams to implement safety protocols that protect all students and school personnel.”The Kelly Administration worked to develop guidance that would ensure that districts across Kansas would be equipped with the best possible information as they prepared to bring their students back for full-time, in-person learning in August. The Kelly Administration will continue to issue new guidance as information is provided from the CDC.“To ensure everyone remains safe as schools resume in August, it is key for schools and communities to work together,”&nbsp;Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) said. “We urge school districts to use the ELC resources for additional support. And, we encourage communities to continue taking precautions to mitigate the virus, including vaccination and testing. If individuals are not vaccinated, please wear a mask in public. If you’re feeling sick, get tested, practice social distancing and stay home.”The State of Kansas began a robust, statewide PSA campaign to encourage Kansans to get vaccinated ahead of the July 4th&nbsp;holiday that will continue throughout year.

Gov. updates COVID-19 guidance for school districts

The Hays Eagles close out their season Friday afternoon at the State American Legion Baseball Tournament against the Ottawa Arrows.

First pitch is set for 12:30 p.m.&nbsp;

with the Eagles Pregame Show at 12:15 on KFIX&nbsp; or online by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">HERE</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hays Eagles close out their season Friday afternoon at the State American Legion Baseball Tournament against the Ottawa Arrows.First pitch is set for 12:30 p.m.&nbsp;

with the Eagles Pregame Show at 12:15 on KFIX&nbsp; or online by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">HERE</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾📻Hays Eagles vs Ottawa

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Fire Department deputy chief Shane Preston speaks about the danger of fires from cigarettes.

<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="Hays Fire Department warns of the danger of fires from cigarettes" allowtransparency="true" height="600" 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=tmskr-10a16ac-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=600" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Fire Department deputy chief Shane Preston speaks about the danger of fires from cigarettes. <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: Hays Fire Department warns of the danger of fires from cigarettes

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for Ellis County Rural Water District No. 1C water supply system, located in Ellis County.

The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the distribution system due to a scheduled valve replacement. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination. Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it's the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory. Laboratory testing samples collected from Ellis County Rural Water District No. 1C indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. For consumer questions, please contact the water system or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514.

For consumer information please visit KDHE's PWS Consumer Information <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">webpage</a>.

KDHEThe Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for Ellis County Rural Water District No. 1C water supply system, located in Ellis County.The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the distribution system due to a scheduled valve replacement. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination. Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it's the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory. Laboratory testing samples collected from Ellis County Rural Water District No. 1C indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. For consumer questions, please contact the water system or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514.For consumer information please visit KDHE's PWS Consumer Information <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm">webpage</a>.

Boil water advisory rescinded for Ellis County Rural Water District No. 1C 

On July 29, at approximately 9:07 p.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to 2511 Gen. Lawton for a report of smoke coming from residential home.

Upon arrival fire crews found smoke coming from the front door and could see a small fire through a window. 

Firefighters forced entry and quickly extinguished the fire. 

No occupants were home, and no injuries were reported at the time of the fire. 

The Hays Fire Department, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, and Hays Police Department all responded.

The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone to check smoke and CO alarms to make sure they are functioning correctly. 

Please contact the Hays Fire Department if you are interested in the smoke alarm program. <a href="http://www.haysusa.com.">You can also find more information at our website www.haysusa.com.
</a>

Hays Fire DepartmentOn July 29, at approximately 9:07 p.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to 2511 Gen. Lawton for a report of smoke coming from residential home.Upon arrival fire crews found smoke coming from the front door and could see a small fire through a window. Firefighters forced entry and quickly extinguished the fire. No occupants were home, and no injuries were reported at the time of the fire. Damage to the home was minimal.The cause of the fire was accidental.The Hays Fire Department, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, and Hays Police Department all responded.The Hays Fire Department would like to remind everyone to check smoke and CO alarms to make sure they are functioning correctly. Please contact the Hays Fire Department if you are interested in the smoke alarm program. <a href="http://www.haysusa.com.">You can also find more information at our website www.haysusa.com.
</a>

Hays home damaged during Thursday night fire

Backpacks for Kids is a program coordinated by First Call for Help in Hays.

The program is dedicated to help families in the community and to ensure students start the school year off with the needed supplies. 

On July 23, Nex-Tech and Nex-Tech Wireless stationed their volunteers at Walmart to collect schools supplies for students in Ellis County.&nbsp;

Nex-Tech and Nex-Tech Wireless volunteers gathered items leading up to July 23 for Backpacks for Kids drive. They also collected up to $250 in cash donations and enough supplies to fill the needs of students.

"Nex-Tech Wireless is proud to partner with Nex-Tech to help support local organizations like First Call for Help of Ellis County. Their Backpacks for Kids program is an amazing asset to our community. We'd like to thank everyone who donated so we can ensure hundreds of Ellis County children will have a great start to their school year," said&nbsp;Jon Lightle, president and CEO of Nex-tech Wireless.

After collecting the donations given by the community, employees filled the tables full of supplies for volunteers to start packing the backpacks.

Nex-Tech and Nex-Tech wireless also each donated $500 to First Call for Help.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627590427650.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedBackpacks for Kids is a program coordinated by First Call for Help in Hays.The program is dedicated to help families in the community and to ensure students start the school year off with the needed supplies. On July 23, Nex-Tech and Nex-Tech Wireless stationed their volunteers at Walmart to collect schools supplies for students in Ellis County.&nbsp;Nex-Tech and Nex-Tech Wireless volunteers gathered items leading up to July 23 for Backpacks for Kids drive. They also collected up to $250 in cash donations and enough supplies to fill the needs of students."Nex-Tech Wireless is proud to partner with Nex-Tech to help support local organizations like First Call for Help of Ellis County. Their Backpacks for Kids program is an amazing asset to our community. We'd like to thank everyone who donated so we can ensure hundreds of Ellis County children will have a great start to their school year," said&nbsp;Jon Lightle, president and CEO of Nex-tech Wireless.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627590681914.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After collecting the donations given by the community, employees filled the tables full of supplies for volunteers to start packing the backpacks.Nex-Tech and Nex-Tech wireless also each donated $500 to First Call for Help.&nbsp;

Nex-Tech donates to Backpacks for Kids in Hays

NORTON —&nbsp;Norton County Community Foundation (NCCF) hosted its fourth annual Match Day on July 21.

The donated and matched funds combined for a total of $149,447 to be invested into area nonprofit endowments and charitable projects.

MatchDay is an annual giving event designed to raise awareness and support for non-profits and charitable organizations in Norton County.

Thanks to the support of loyal donors, NCCF was able to provide a $70,000 match this year.

Twenty organizations participated in this year’s event. Those with an endowed fund at NCCF received a 2:1 match, while organizations and charitable projects without an endowed fund at NCCF received a 1:1 match.

Combined, the participating organizations raised $79,447 from donors, leveraging the full $70,000 match from NCCF.

In total, $149,447 was invested into local endowments and charitable projects. 

Participants included: Endowments

“This year’s MatchDay was a huge success,” said Tara Vance, foundation executive director. “$70,000 was our largest matching pool to date; not only did the nonprofits meet that goal, but exceeded it. We just can’t match the generosity of this community!”

For more information about MatchDay 2021, contact Tara Vance at 785-874-5106 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tara@nortonccf.org">tara@nortonccf.org</a>.

About Norton County Community Foundation The Norton County Community Foundation was established in 1994 for the purpose of supporting local charitable activities in Norton County through endowments made to the foundation.

Dedicated to serving today for tomorrow, to make our community a better place in which to live. Connect with the Norton County Community Foundation at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nortonccf.org/">www.nortonccf.org</a>.

SubmittedNORTON —&nbsp;Norton County Community Foundation (NCCF) hosted its fourth annual Match Day on July 21.The donated and matched funds combined for a total of $149,447 to be invested into area nonprofit endowments and charitable projects.MatchDay is an annual giving event designed to raise awareness and support for non-profits and charitable organizations in Norton County.Thanks to the support of loyal donors, NCCF was able to provide a $70,000 match this year.Twenty organizations participated in this year’s event. Those with an endowed fund at NCCF received a 2:1 match, while organizations and charitable projects without an endowed fund at NCCF received a 1:1 match.Combined, the participating organizations raised $79,447 from donors, leveraging the full $70,000 match from NCCF.In total, $149,447 was invested into local endowments and charitable projects. Participants included: Endowments<ul>
 <li>NCHS Alumni Association&nbsp;</li><li>Norton Area Childcare Association (Sunshine Learning Center)</li><li>Norton County Community Foundation Operating Endowment</li><li>Norton County Community Services Association (Carnival)</li><li>Norton County Endowment for the Arts</li><li>Norton County Health Department</li><li>Norton PRIDE</li><li>Norton Rotary Club</li><li>Norton Theatre Association</li>
 </ul> Projects<ul>
 <li>Celebrate Recovery, outreach expansion</li><li>Moms4Kids, summer backpack food program</li><li>Norton Bluejay Booster Club, vinyl banner hardware</li><li>Norton County Genealogical Society, purchase view scanner for Microfilm&nbsp;</li><li>Norton Flower Fund, beautification of public areas</li><li>Norton Public Library, art club fund</li><li>Norton Regional Health Foundation, new patient beds for NCH</li><li>Rock Christian Youth Center, re-launch The Rock</li><li>Star Spangled Stitchers,&nbsp;Quilts of Valor</li><li>Thrift Shop,&nbsp;HVAC for new building&nbsp;</li><li>Valley Hope Foundation,&nbsp;Norton extended treatment and sober housing project</li>
 </ul>“This year’s MatchDay was a huge success,” said Tara Vance, foundation executive director. “$70,000 was our largest matching pool to date; not only did the nonprofits meet that goal, but exceeded it. We just can’t match the generosity of this community!”For more information about MatchDay 2021, contact Tara Vance at 785-874-5106 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tara@nortonccf.org">tara@nortonccf.org</a>.About Norton County Community Foundation The Norton County Community Foundation was established in 1994 for the purpose of supporting local charitable activities in Norton County through endowments made to the foundation. Dedicated to serving today for tomorrow, to make our community a better place in which to live. Connect with the Norton County Community Foundation at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nortonccf.org/">www.nortonccf.org</a>.

Norton County Community Foundation’ raises $149,447

Fort Hays State University’s Jerrie Brooks, assistant professor, and Robert Moody, professor in the Department of Advanced Educational Programs, had a virtual workshop on differentiation in the K-12 classroom June 15 and 16.&nbsp;

This workshop had 35 K-12 teachers from over a dozen countries, all currently living and working in Saudi Arabia. A genuinely international group of educators, their home countries included:&nbsp;Yemen, Sierra Leone, Kenya, America, Saudi Arabia, Jamaica, India, Pakistan, South Africa, Palestine, Lebanon, Jordan, Canada, Eritrea and Egypt.&nbsp;

This workshop marks a milestone for FHSU. According to Sherry Crow, chairwoman of the Department of Advanced Education.

“Several attempts at organizing and conducting such&nbsp;workshops with teachers in Saudi Arabia have&nbsp;occurred over the last few years," she said, "but this is the first time a workshop in education by FHSU has actually taken place.”&nbsp;

Raynor Roberts, FHSU alum and member of the Association for Professional Educators Abroad, has worked for several years to bring programs like these to fellow teachers in Saudi Arabia. In conjunction with the FHSU Office of Global Partnerships and the Department of Advanced Educational Programs, Roberts’ efforts are paying off.&nbsp;

Roberts said, “many teachers in Saudi Arabia are doing great work, but lack resources, particularly in areas like differentiation as this is not a major component of the education system in this region.”

He has found the teachers are open to new perspectives and are eager for the direction and support for their teaching that workshops like this one from FHSU provide.

For those who may not be familiar with the concept, “Differentiation” is the practice of adapting instruction to meet the educational needs of a diverse group of students. This approach is not the norm in middle eastern countries.

The desire for these teachers to expand their knowledge of individualized instruction has helped open the door for Roberts and FHSU.&nbsp;The ability to provide resources that will ultimately help students who these eager educators teach, whether in Saudi Arabia or in one of the many home counties that they come from, closely aligns with the greater mission at FHSU to “provide accessible quality education to Kansas, the nation, and the world.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The recent workshop is not the first time Roberts has collaborated with FHSU on a professional development opportunity for teachers in Saudi Arabia.

Roberts worked with Gary Andersen, assistant professor of advanced education programs, in 2017, providing a lecture series on classroom culture. The success of this activity, and the receptivity of the teachers involved, inspired Roberts to provide an interactive educational opportunity for the Saudi teachers.&nbsp;

Another significant difference between the recent workshops and these initial activities is that Roberts, with the assistance of Cindy Elliott, assistant vice president for global partnerships, was able to acquire official recognition and approval from the Saudi Ministry of Education. Ibrahim Alfarhan, director of the International and Foreign Education Office, gave a welcoming speech for the event. Alfarhan’s office is also providing a certificate to all participants. This workshop marks the first time an educational program at FHSU has gained governmental approval to work with teachers in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

To make this meeting possible, the successful use of technology was vital. Moody, Google certified trainer and ISTE certified educator handled the setup and technology on the FHSU end of this meeting.

Moody discussed the success they had, not only in the&nbsp;video discussions with the participants but also with the Google Classroom features that allow materials to be shared long after the conference has ended.&nbsp;

“I just checked, and people are still going to the Google Classroom and reading and downloading materials from there, nearly three weeks after the conference,” Moody said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Roberts added he thought the Google site would see even more use as the new school year approached, noting this is the type of support these teachers want, and he hopes FHSU can provide more of it in the future.

FHSU UniversityFort Hays State University’s Jerrie Brooks, assistant professor, and Robert Moody, professor in the Department of Advanced Educational Programs, had a virtual workshop on differentiation in the K-12 classroom June 15 and 16.&nbsp;This workshop had 35 K-12 teachers from over a dozen countries, all currently living and working in Saudi Arabia. A genuinely international group of educators, their home countries included:&nbsp;Yemen, Sierra Leone, Kenya, America, Saudi Arabia, Jamaica, India, Pakistan, South Africa, Palestine, Lebanon, Jordan, Canada, Eritrea and Egypt.&nbsp;This workshop marks a milestone for FHSU. According to Sherry Crow, chairwoman of the Department of Advanced Education.“Several attempts at organizing and conducting such&nbsp;workshops with teachers in Saudi Arabia have&nbsp;occurred over the last few years," she said, "but this is the first time a workshop in education by FHSU has actually taken place.”&nbsp;Raynor Roberts, FHSU alum and member of the Association for Professional Educators Abroad, has worked for several years to bring programs like these to fellow teachers in Saudi Arabia. In conjunction with the FHSU Office of Global Partnerships and the Department of Advanced Educational Programs, Roberts’ efforts are paying off.&nbsp;Roberts said, “many teachers in Saudi Arabia are doing great work, but lack resources, particularly in areas like differentiation as this is not a major component of the education system in this region.”He has found the teachers are open to new perspectives and are eager for the direction and support for their teaching that workshops like this one from FHSU provide.For those who may not be familiar with the concept, “Differentiation” is the practice of adapting instruction to meet the educational needs of a diverse group of students. This approach is not the norm in middle eastern countries.The desire for these teachers to expand their knowledge of individualized instruction has helped open the door for Roberts and FHSU.&nbsp;The ability to provide resources that will ultimately help students who these eager educators teach, whether in Saudi Arabia or in one of the many home counties that they come from, closely aligns with the greater mission at FHSU to “provide accessible quality education to Kansas, the nation, and the world.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The recent workshop is not the first time Roberts has collaborated with FHSU on a professional development opportunity for teachers in Saudi Arabia.Roberts worked with Gary Andersen, assistant professor of advanced education programs, in 2017, providing a lecture series on classroom culture. The success of this activity, and the receptivity of the teachers involved, inspired Roberts to provide an interactive educational opportunity for the Saudi teachers.&nbsp;Another significant difference between the recent workshops and these initial activities is that Roberts, with the assistance of Cindy Elliott, assistant vice president for global partnerships, was able to acquire official recognition and approval from the Saudi Ministry of Education. Ibrahim Alfarhan, director of the International and Foreign Education Office, gave a welcoming speech for the event. Alfarhan’s office is also providing a certificate to all participants. This workshop marks the first time an educational program at FHSU has gained governmental approval to work with teachers in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;To make this meeting possible, the successful use of technology was vital. Moody, Google certified trainer and ISTE certified educator handled the setup and technology on the FHSU end of this meeting.Moody discussed the success they had, not only in the&nbsp;video discussions with the participants but also with the Google Classroom features that allow materials to be shared long after the conference has ended.&nbsp;“I just checked, and people are still going to the Google Classroom and reading and downloading materials from there, nearly three weeks after the conference,” Moody said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Roberts added he thought the Google site would see even more use as the new school year approached, noting this is the type of support these teachers want, and he hopes FHSU can provide more of it in the future.

FHSU hosts workshop for Saudi Arabian teachers

Three-day weather outlook

BOSTON (AP) — Former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, who was defrocked after a Vatican investigation confirmed he had sexually molested adults as well as children, has been charged with sexually assaulting a teenage boy during a wedding reception in the 1970s, court records show.

Court documents&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/07/29/metro/defrocked-cardinal-theodore-mccarrick-charged-with-sexually-assaulting-teenager-1970s/" target="_blank">obtained by The Boston Globe&nbsp;</a>shows that McCarrick is charged with three counts of indecent assault and battery on a person over 14.

McCarrick is the first cardinal in the U.S. to ever be criminally charged with a sexual crime against a minor, according to Mitchell Garabedian, a well-known lawyer for church sexual abuse victims who is representing the man alleging the abuse by McCarrick.

“It takes an enormous amount of courage for a sexual abuse victim to report having been sexually abused to investigators and proceed through the criminal process,” Garabedian said in an email. “Let the facts be presented, the law applied, and a fair verdict rendered.”

Barry Coburn, an attorney for McCarrick, told The Associated Press that they “look forward to addressing the case in the courtroom,” and declined further comment.

A report filed in court says the man told investigators that McCarrick was a family friend and began abusing him when he was a boy.

The man says McCarrick groped him when he was 16 in 1974 as they walked around the campus of Wellesley College, where his brother’s wedding reception was being held. The man also alleges that McCarrick led him into a room and fondled the boy before telling him to “say three our fathers and a Hail Mary or it was one Our Father and three Hail Marys, so God can redeem you of your sins,” according to the court documents.

McCarrick, 91,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/theodore-mccarrick-ex-cardinal-scandal-989fb97f4f0cad8c4926e8cb795ba2bf">was defrocked by Pope Francis in 2019</a>&nbsp;after a Vatican investigation confirmed decades of rumors that he was a sexual predator.

The case created a credibility crisis for the church since the Vatican had reports from authoritative cardinals dating to 1999 that McCarrick’s behavior was problematic, yet he became an influential cardinal, kingmaker and emissary of the Holy See’s “soft diplomacy.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578567833416.jpeg" alt="Disgraced former Catholic cardinal Theodore McCarrick moved to the St. Fidelis Friary in Victoria, Kansas in 2018. He moved from Northwest Kansas in January 2020 Credit: US Institute of Peace. CC BY NC 20" />
 <figcaption>Disgraced former Catholic cardinal Theodore McCarrick moved to the St. Fidelis Friary in Victoria, Kansas in 2018. He moved from Northwest Kansas in January 2020 Credit: US Institute of Peace. CC BY NC 20</figcaption>
 </figure>BOSTON (AP) — Former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, who was defrocked after a Vatican investigation confirmed he had sexually molested adults as well as children, has been charged with sexually assaulting a teenage boy during a wedding reception in the 1970s, court records show.Court documents&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/07/29/metro/defrocked-cardinal-theodore-mccarrick-charged-with-sexually-assaulting-teenager-1970s/" target="_blank">obtained by The Boston Globe&nbsp;</a>shows that McCarrick is charged with three counts of indecent assault and battery on a person over 14.McCarrick is the first cardinal in the U.S. to ever be criminally charged with a sexual crime against a minor, according to Mitchell Garabedian, a well-known lawyer for church sexual abuse victims who is representing the man alleging the abuse by McCarrick.“It takes an enormous amount of courage for a sexual abuse victim to report having been sexually abused to investigators and proceed through the criminal process,” Garabedian said in an email. “Let the facts be presented, the law applied, and a fair verdict rendered.”Barry Coburn, an attorney for McCarrick, told The Associated Press that they “look forward to addressing the case in the courtroom,” and declined further comment.A report filed in court says the man told investigators that McCarrick was a family friend and began abusing him when he was a boy.The man says McCarrick groped him when he was 16 in 1974 as they walked around the campus of Wellesley College, where his brother’s wedding reception was being held. The man also alleges that McCarrick led him into a room and fondled the boy before telling him to “say three our fathers and a Hail Mary or it was one Our Father and three Hail Marys, so God can redeem you of your sins,” according to the court documents.McCarrick, 91,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/theodore-mccarrick-ex-cardinal-scandal-989fb97f4f0cad8c4926e8cb795ba2bf">was defrocked by Pope Francis in 2019</a>&nbsp;after a Vatican investigation confirmed decades of rumors that he was a sexual predator.The case created a credibility crisis for the church since the Vatican had reports from authoritative cardinals dating to 1999 that McCarrick’s behavior was problematic, yet he became an influential cardinal, kingmaker and emissary of the Holy See’s “soft diplomacy.”

First cardinal in U.S. criminally charged with child sex crime 

The Hays Fire Department was dispatched to four fires in Hays Thursday, but despite the unusually high activity in one day, Hays Fire Department chief Ryan Hagans said no injuries were reported.

"At 11:17 a.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire at 3203 Fort," Hagans said. " When fire crews arrived on scene they found a burnt food on top of the stove.&nbsp; The fire was contained to the cooking pot.&nbsp; The cause of the fire was accidental."

"At 3:29 p.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched for a reported structure fire at Burger King 1212 Vine," he said. "When fire crews arrived on scene they found a grease fire in a food warmer.&nbsp; The fire was extinguished by using a Class K fire extinguisher.&nbsp; The cause of the fire was combustion of food grease."

"At 3:46 p.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at 505 Ash Street," Hagans said.&nbsp;"Fire crews used an 1 ¾” handline to extinguish a fire caused by items left on a stove.&nbsp; Fire crews stayed on scene to ventilate the apartment to remove smoke and carbon monoxide.&nbsp; There was moderate smoke damage throughout the apartment.&nbsp; The cause of this fire was accidental."

"At 4:45 p.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire at 1322 Judith Drive," he said. "Upon arrival fire crews found people using a garden hose to try to extinguish the fire.&nbsp; Fire crews then used a 1” handline to finish extinguishing the fire.&nbsp; The cause of this fire was improper discarding of smoking materials."

Hagans said the department was assisted by the Hays Police Department, Ellis County Fire Department, Ellis County EMS and the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office.

"The fire department would like to remind everyone the importance of having working smoke alarms in your home," Hagans said.

The Hays Fire Department was dispatched to four fires in Hays Thursday, but despite the unusually high activity in one day, Hays Fire Department chief Ryan Hagans said no injuries were reported."At 11:17 a.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire at 3203 Fort," Hagans said. " When fire crews arrived on scene they found a burnt food on top of the stove.&nbsp; The fire was contained to the cooking pot.&nbsp; The cause of the fire was accidental.""At 3:29 p.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched for a reported structure fire at Burger King 1212 Vine," he said. "When fire crews arrived on scene they found a grease fire in a food warmer.&nbsp; The fire was extinguished by using a Class K fire extinguisher.&nbsp; The cause of the fire was combustion of food grease.""At 3:46 p.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at 505 Ash Street," Hagans said.&nbsp;"Fire crews used an 1 ¾” handline to extinguish a fire caused by items left on a stove.&nbsp; Fire crews stayed on scene to ventilate the apartment to remove smoke and carbon monoxide.&nbsp; There was moderate smoke damage throughout the apartment.&nbsp; The cause of this fire was accidental.""At 4:45 p.m. the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire at 1322 Judith Drive," he said. "Upon arrival fire crews found people using a garden hose to try to extinguish the fire.&nbsp; Fire crews then used a 1” handline to finish extinguishing the fire.&nbsp; The cause of this fire was improper discarding of smoking materials."Hagans said the department was assisted by the Hays Police Department, Ellis County Fire Department, Ellis County EMS and the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office."The fire department would like to remind everyone the importance of having working smoke alarms in your home," Hagans said.

Hays Fire Department responds to four fires Thursday

The Hays Eagles Senior American Legion baseball team will look to bounce back from a loss last night in the first game of the American Legion State Baseball Tournament Thursday as they take on the Kansas Senators.

First pitch is set for approximately 12:30 p.m. with the Eagles Pregame Show at 12:15 on KFIX&nbsp; or online by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">HERE</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hays Eagles Senior American Legion baseball team will look to bounce back from a loss last night in the first game of the American Legion State Baseball Tournament Thursday as they take on the Kansas Senators.First pitch is set for approximately 12:30 p.m. with the Eagles Pregame Show at 12:15 on KFIX&nbsp; or online by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">HERE</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾📻Hays Eagles vs KS Senators

July 29, 2021 is a 5th Thursday of the month; therefore, there won't be a Hays city commission work session that evening.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysJuly 29, 2021 is a 5th Thursday of the month; therefore, there won't be a Hays city commission work session that evening.

No city commission meeting Thursday

LOGAN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal Wednesday rollover crash have identified the victim as Todd J. Kuhlman, 49, Oakley.

&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1978 Kenworth semi driven by Kuhlman was southbound on Kansas 25 twenty one miles north of highway 96. The semi lost the front right tire, left the road to the right, crossed the ditch sideways and rolled on its top along the fence line.

Kuhlman was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Baalmann Mortuary. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

LOGAN COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal accident that occurred just after 2:30 p.m. Wednesday in Logan County.

A vehicle southbound on Kansas 25 twenty one miles north of highway 96 lost the front right tire and left the road to the right. The vehicle crossed the ditch sideways and rolled on its top along the fence line.

The KHP released no additional details early Thursday. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

LOGAN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal Wednesday rollover crash have identified the victim as Todd J. Kuhlman, 49, Oakley.&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1978 Kenworth semi driven by Kuhlman was southbound on Kansas 25 twenty one miles north of highway 96. The semi lost the front right tire, left the road to the right, crossed the ditch sideways and rolled on its top along the fence line.Kuhlman was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Baalmann Mortuary. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.--------LOGAN COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal accident that occurred just after 2:30 p.m. Wednesday in Logan County.A vehicle southbound on Kansas 25 twenty one miles north of highway 96 lost the front right tire and left the road to the right. The vehicle crossed the ditch sideways and rolled on its top along the fence line.The KHP released no additional details early Thursday. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

KHP IDs NW Kan. man who died after semi lost front tire

Goodland Rural/City Task Force 7 was paged out Tuesday for a grain engulfment in a grain bin in Bird City.

The patient was engulfed up to his chest and conscious. The patient was flown from the scene to Hays Medical Center for evaluation.

Bird City and St. Francis Fire were also on scene.&nbsp;

<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D4269575066440766%26id%3D125339287531052&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="917" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Goodland Rural/City Task Force 7 was paged out Tuesday for a grain engulfment in a grain bin in Bird City.The patient was engulfed up to his chest and conscious. The patient was flown from the scene to Hays Medical Center for evaluation.Bird City and St. Francis Fire were also on scene.&nbsp;

Man rescued from grain silo in NW Kansas 

In an effort to recognize area first responders, the Thunder on the Plains Car Show will host a Cruise Night, with events slated to kick off at 6 p.m. Friday in the parking lot of Big Creek Crossing, 2918 Vine.

"We do a Cruise Night every last Friday of every month during the summer," said committee member Jackie Lang.&nbsp; "This one we are doing to honor first responders. We will have representatives from pretty much all of the agencies."

And in true car show fashion, those responders will have vehicles on display.

"People can come out and look at and see what they have got," Lang said.

She said the response to the event has been positive.&nbsp;

"When we first approached them about this, they were really excited and really pleased that we were wanting to do this for them," Lang said.

During the event, The Local Food Truck will be on site and offering discounts to first responders.

"It will be an awesome time," said committee member Shelby Doty.&nbsp;

While this week's Cruise Night is sure to bring out an array of vehicles, it is likely only a small part of the number that will roll into Hays for the main event scheduled Sept. 3-4.

"We have seen a lot of really nice cars," Lang said. "Not only cars; trucks, motorcycles, anything that people want to bring out to show."

And as the event continues, each year, more unique and interesting vehicles are displayed.

"We always see something new," Lang said. "You would be surprised how many cars are in Hays garages that have never see the light of day, and we would love to get those cars out and on the street."

She said even cars that are not fully restored are welcome additions to the show.

"If there are some of those out there in the garages, let's see one on Labor Day weekend," Doty said.

"We have cars that - maybe they need a little bit of work done to them, and they think 'oh it's not good enough to put out there,' but any car if it needs work, it's a project," Lang said.

"And there are a lot of them in a restoration process," she said. "Maybe we won't see them this year, but hopefully, we will see them next year."

While the events center around vehicles, other family-friendly activities are planned.

"We try to make it a family-oriented event," Lang said. "We have food vendors, merchant vendors, just a nice thing for people to come out and enjoy a day just being outside."

An onsite auction to raise funds is also planned.

"We have businesses that have donated merchandise, things like that," Lang said. "We are going to have a live auction. We have some really nice things that have been donated."

Some of those items already secured include a bar with a fridge, a Green Mountain grill and jewelry.

While the event in itself is designed to be a fun experience, the proceeds will also be used to help the community.

"The majority of our funds that we do collect and raise go back to the not-for-profits or those organizations that need assistance," Doty said. "Our major goal is to help others with the funds and things that we receive."

Since 2016 the organization has donated over $34,000 to local nonprofits in need.

"We travel to quite a number of car shows, and it's not just the cars that you see, but it's the friends that you have made traveling around. So when you get back together at these car shows with your friends, it's just a great experience," Doty said.

<a href="http://thunderontheplainsks.com.">For more information and to register for the Car Show, visit thunderontheplainsks.com.</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/thunderontheplainsks">They also maintain a presence on social media, including Facebook.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599072402109.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostIn an effort to recognize area first responders, the Thunder on the Plains Car Show will host a Cruise Night, with events slated to kick off at 6 p.m. Friday in the parking lot of Big Creek Crossing, 2918 Vine."We do a Cruise Night every last Friday of every month during the summer," said committee member Jackie Lang.&nbsp; "This one we are doing to honor first responders. We will have representatives from pretty much all of the agencies."And in true car show fashion, those responders will have vehicles on display."People can come out and look at and see what they have got," Lang said.She said the response to the event has been positive.&nbsp;"When we first approached them about this, they were really excited and really pleased that we were wanting to do this for them," Lang said.During the event, The Local Food Truck will be on site and offering discounts to first responders."It will be an awesome time," said committee member Shelby Doty.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599362822224.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>While this week's Cruise Night is sure to bring out an array of vehicles, it is likely only a small part of the number that will roll into Hays for the main event scheduled Sept. 3-4."We have seen a lot of really nice cars," Lang said. "Not only cars; trucks, motorcycles, anything that people want to bring out to show."And as the event continues, each year, more unique and interesting vehicles are displayed."We always see something new," Lang said. "You would be surprised how many cars are in Hays garages that have never see the light of day, and we would love to get those cars out and on the street."She said even cars that are not fully restored are welcome additions to the show.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599362742871.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"If there are some of those out there in the garages, let's see one on Labor Day weekend," Doty said."We have cars that - maybe they need a little bit of work done to them, and they think 'oh it's not good enough to put out there,' but any car if it needs work, it's a project," Lang said."And there are a lot of them in a restoration process," she said. "Maybe we won't see them this year, but hopefully, we will see them next year."While the events center around vehicles, other family-friendly activities are planned."We try to make it a family-oriented event," Lang said. "We have food vendors, merchant vendors, just a nice thing for people to come out and enjoy a day just being outside."An onsite auction to raise funds is also planned."We have businesses that have donated merchandise, things like that," Lang said. "We are going to have a live auction. We have some really nice things that have been donated."Some of those items already secured include a bar with a fridge, a Green Mountain grill and jewelry.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599362524220.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>While the event in itself is designed to be a fun experience, the proceeds will also be used to help the community."The majority of our funds that we do collect and raise go back to the not-for-profits or those organizations that need assistance," Doty said. "Our major goal is to help others with the funds and things that we receive."Since 2016 the organization has donated over $34,000 to local nonprofits in need.But the comrade may be just a valuable."We travel to quite a number of car shows, and it's not just the cars that you see, but it's the friends that you have made traveling around. So when you get back together at these car shows with your friends, it's just a great experience," Doty said.<a href="http://thunderontheplainsks.com.">For more information and to register for the Car Show, visit thunderontheplainsks.com.</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thunderontheplainsks">They also maintain a presence on social media, including Facebook.</a>

Thunder on the Plains celebrates first responders during Cruise Night

HaysMed welcomes two new cardiologists to the medical staff this month.

Dr. Jason Okuhara, interventional cardiologist, and Dr. Siva Taduru, cardiologist, joined the team at the DeBakey Heart Institute.

Dr. Okuhara completed medical school at Nova Southeastern-COM, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He did his residency in internal medicine at Northside Hospital and Heart Institute in St. Petersburg, Fla. He completed a fellowship in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology at Deborah Heart and Lung Center, Browns Mills, N.J. He is board certified in internal medicine, cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology.

Dr. Taduru completed medical school at Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, India.&nbsp; He completed a residency in internal medicine at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Mo. A fellowship in cardiovascular diseases was completed at the University of Kansas, Kansas City. He is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

“We are very pleased to have Dr. Okuhara and Dr. Taduru working with our team of cardiologists at Debakey,” Steve Albright, director of cardiology, said. “Their expertise will expand the number of patients we can serve and also increase the catheterization procedures we will be able to offer our cardiac patients.”

To schedule an appointment with cardiology, call 785-625-4699.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627482707003.jpeg" alt="Okuhara" />
 <figcaption>Okuhara</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMed welcomes two new cardiologists to the medical staff this month.Dr. Jason Okuhara, interventional cardiologist, and Dr. Siva Taduru, cardiologist, joined the team at the DeBakey Heart Institute.Dr. Okuhara completed medical school at Nova Southeastern-COM, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He did his residency in internal medicine at Northside Hospital and Heart Institute in St. Petersburg, Fla. He completed a fellowship in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology at Deborah Heart and Lung Center, Browns Mills, N.J. He is board certified in internal medicine, cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology.Dr. Taduru completed medical school at Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, India.&nbsp; He completed a residency in internal medicine at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Mo. A fellowship in cardiovascular diseases was completed at the University of Kansas, Kansas City. He is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627482740394.jpeg" alt="Taduru" />
 <figcaption>Taduru</figcaption>
 </figure>“We are very pleased to have Dr. Okuhara and Dr. Taduru working with our team of cardiologists at Debakey,” Steve Albright, director of cardiology, said. “Their expertise will expand the number of patients we can serve and also increase the catheterization procedures we will be able to offer our cardiac patients.”To schedule an appointment with cardiology, call 785-625-4699.

HaysMed welcomes 2 new cardiologists

Rural &amp; Remote Director Kade Wilcox confirmed recently the keynote speaker
for a Rural &amp; Remote Summit: The Future of Work.

Paul Hill is an Extension professor for Utah
State University where he leads economic development educational programs in rural counties
through the Rural Online Initiative program that he founded in 2018.

He is a past recipient of the
Utah Governor’s Medal for Science Technology as well as 25 other state and national awards
for his innovative programs, impacts, research and publications.

Hill and his team are implementing a remote work education program and have real-world experience of
how remote work has impacted rural communities in Utah and other states.


This free event is open to anyone interested in how remote working is impacting rural
communities in the northwest region of Kansas. The summit will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 23 in Hays.


“Our target audience for the summit includes community leaders, employers and individuals
that are curious if remote work may be a good fit for them. We will have breakout sessions
available for those wanting to participate in our program, and those wanting to bring Rural &amp;
Remote to their community,” said Gretchin Staples, regional program coordinator.


Rural &amp; Remote is an initiative of the NWK Economic Innovation Center, INC and was started in
the spring 2019. For more than years, Rural &amp; Remote has helped train and connect northwest
Kansas residents to remote job opportunities with customized skills training and job placement
support.


Melissa Rickford, Atwood, a Rawlins County resident, contacted Rural &amp; Remote through
their website <a href="http://www.ruralandremote.org">www.ruralandremote.org</a> and enrolled in the January 2021 Remote Work
Certification course.

“It has seriously changed my entire life,” she says from the comfort of her
home office on a sunny afternoon. “The company I work for makes me feel good about what I’m
doing every day, and it is challenging work with so much room for growth.”


“Through Rural &amp; Remote, you get the training and you gain that collaboration with the right
connections,” she said. “You have to do the work, but they help open the doors to opportunities.
Your career is not based on your location. It’s based on your skill. With the right connections and
pathways, you can achieve your greatest career goals.” 

You can read more of Melissa’s story <a href="https://blog.ruralandremote.org/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627394014810.jpeg" alt="Hill" />
 <figcaption>Hill</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseRural &amp; Remote Director Kade Wilcox confirmed recently the keynote speaker
for a Rural &amp; Remote Summit: The Future of Work.Paul Hill is an Extension professor for Utah
State University where he leads economic development educational programs in rural counties
through the Rural Online Initiative program that he founded in 2018.He is a past recipient of the
Utah Governor’s Medal for Science Technology as well as 25 other state and national awards
for his innovative programs, impacts, research and publications.Hill and his team are implementing a remote work education program and have real-world experience of
how remote work has impacted rural communities in Utah and other states.
This free event is open to anyone interested in how remote working is impacting rural
communities in the northwest region of Kansas. The summit will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 23 in Hays.
“Our target audience for the summit includes community leaders, employers and individuals
that are curious if remote work may be a good fit for them. We will have breakout sessions
available for those wanting to participate in our program, and those wanting to bring Rural &amp;
Remote to their community,” said Gretchin Staples, regional program coordinator.
Rural &amp; Remote is an initiative of the NWK Economic Innovation Center, INC and was started in
the spring 2019. For more than years, Rural &amp; Remote has helped train and connect northwest
Kansas residents to remote job opportunities with customized skills training and job placement
support.
Melissa Rickford, Atwood, a Rawlins County resident, contacted Rural &amp; Remote through
their website <a href="http://www.ruralandremote.org">www.ruralandremote.org</a> and enrolled in the January 2021 Remote Work
Certification course. “It has seriously changed my entire life,” she says from the comfort of her
home office on a sunny afternoon. “The company I work for makes me feel good about what I’m
doing every day, and it is challenging work with so much room for growth.”
“Through Rural &amp; Remote, you get the training and you gain that collaboration with the right
connections,” she said. “You have to do the work, but they help open the doors to opportunities.
Your career is not based on your location. It’s based on your skill. With the right connections and
pathways, you can achieve your greatest career goals.” You can read more of Melissa’s story <a href="https://blog.ruralandremote.org/">HERE</a>.

Rural & Remote fall summit set for September in Hays

It was just a few weeks back when I enthusiastically shared the good news that Whitney Randall, a senior women’s basketball student-athlete, was selected as the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/23346eb4-dc5e-4555-b599-ad744681194f">2021 MIAA Women’s Winter Student-Athlete of the Year.</a> I absolutely loved sharing her moment in the spotlight with Whitney, her parents, coach Hobson, athletic director Curtis Hammeke, and senior woman administrator Dixie Balman. I am still smiling!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>It was just a few weeks back when I enthusiastically shared the good news that Whitney Randall, a senior women’s basketball student-athlete, was selected as the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/23346eb4-dc5e-4555-b599-ad744681194f">2021 MIAA Women’s Winter Student-Athlete of the Year.</a> I absolutely loved sharing her moment in the spotlight with Whitney, her parents, coach Hobson, athletic director Curtis Hammeke, and senior woman administrator Dixie Balman. I am still smiling!Now, weeks later, Ryan Stanley, a junior on the track and field team, has been selected as the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3bd053f0-e89b-437f-bf54-5ab922ad41ea">2021 MIAA Men’s Spring Student-Athlete of the Year.</a> Incredible.&nbsp;This award is the MIAA’s highest honor for student-athletes. It is based on the athletic, academic, and campus/community service accomplishments of individuals who are juniors or seniors in athletic eligibility and have a grade point average of at least 3.25. This also means that Fort Hays State has two of the four MIAA student-athletes of the year, as well as finalists for the awards for seven consecutive years!Ryan is our first-ever male recipient of this prestigious award. He is a talented young man, an accomplished student-athlete, and a highly engaged student leader.Ryan has been near perfect in the classroom these past three years, earning a 3.97 GPA as a management major. He has received many athletic and academic accolades, and most importantly, he has been a friend to many Tigers and an effective campus leader.Ryan has been a member of our student government association and will serve as the student body vice president this next year. He has been an active leadership team member of Christian Challenge and has participated in multiple community service projects. He was even part of the four-member student team who designed “MeHe,” a mobile phone app centered on maintaining positive mental health, that won the 2020 Kansas Startup competition.This summer, Ryan&nbsp;was on staff with&nbsp;Project Apprentice, a Rock Hill Church-based program that works to develop future Christian leaders. He also&nbsp;helped raise proceeds for&nbsp;Operation Breakthrough in Kansas City, where he&nbsp;coordinated fundraising&nbsp;events and volunteered&nbsp;to help the organization&nbsp;provide a safe, loving, and educational environment for children in poverty. Children in the program are mentored in&nbsp;the arts, sports, or STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). With such remarkable experiences under his belt, I have no doubt Ryan is becoming an amazing mentor. He has the heart, the smarts, and the discipline to help these young students thrive.Ryan grew up in Bennington, a small town in north-central Kansas, the son of former college athletes and the middle sibling in a family of five. Ryan described growing up as a constant competition with his two older brothers, who he followed to Fort Hays State. Ryan decided to major in business and try his luck at competing in the pole vault at the college level.The summer between high school and college, Ryan attended a pole vault camp at FHSU, catching the attention of our pole-vaulting coach, Randy Stanley.“I watched him and thought, ‘Oh, my goodness, this guy has some talent,” Coach Stanley said. “He’s got really good speed and is so aggressive and has so much potential. I thought that once he got to college and could focus on one sport, who knows how much he could improve?”And improve, he did. Earlier in the year, Ryan claimed the NCAA Division II National Championship in the pole vault, setting FHSU’s outdoor record mark of 17 feet, 2.75 inches. That’s more than three times my height! Ryan also set the indoor record earlier in the year at 16 feet, 11.5 inches. He went on to be named the MIAA Men’s Spring Student-Athlete of the Year this past June.Ryan will return to campus in the fall to serve as the student body vice president, take on new challenges as a student-athlete, and earn two bachelor’s degrees – one in business administration and management with a concentration in human resources (HR) and one in Spanish. He then plans to begin work on a master’s in professional studies in HR management.Brazilian soccer player Pele’ said, “Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.”&nbsp;A great quote that I think really captures the essence of Ryan Stanley, an incredible young man for whom I am so grateful for choosing to call Tiger Nation home and for leading our campus with integrity, resilience, and strong character.