BUNKER HILL – The Heartland Community Foundation has awarded Smoky Hills PBS with a grant for $1,500 to support the station’s Literacy Leadership Program.

The Literacy Leadership Program is an effort from Smoky Hills PBS to engage and inspire children to be ready and eager to learn.&nbsp; 

One component of this program is the First Book Club, in which Smoky Hills PBS gives free books to children enrolled in Head Start programs.&nbsp;

With these funds from the Heartland Community Foundation, more than 250 children in Trego, Rooks and Ellis counties, who are enrolled in Head Start and Early Head Start programs will receive free books during the 2021-2022 school year.&nbsp; For some, these books will be the only ones that they own.&nbsp;

“The purpose of providing these free books is to encourage parents to read with their children regularly.&nbsp; Providing educational resources to children in central and western Kansas is a very important part of the work we do at Smoky Hills PBS,” said Amanda Smith, Smoky Hills PBS marketing director. &nbsp;“We want to thank the Heartland Community Foundation for their support in allowing us to continue this program in Trego, Rooks, and Ellis counties."

The Heartland Community Foundation was founded in 2007, to serve as a vehicle for charitable giving benefiting Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties.&nbsp; The Foundation is a permanent source of charitable assets to meet both the emerging and existing needs of the local communities.&nbsp; The Heartland Community Foundation is an affiliate of the Greater Salina Community Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579894481233.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SHPBSBUNKER HILL – The Heartland Community Foundation has awarded Smoky Hills PBS with a grant for $1,500 to support the station’s Literacy Leadership Program.The Literacy Leadership Program is an effort from Smoky Hills PBS to engage and inspire children to be ready and eager to learn.&nbsp; One component of this program is the First Book Club, in which Smoky Hills PBS gives free books to children enrolled in Head Start programs.&nbsp;With these funds from the Heartland Community Foundation, more than 250 children in Trego, Rooks and Ellis counties, who are enrolled in Head Start and Early Head Start programs will receive free books during the 2021-2022 school year.&nbsp; For some, these books will be the only ones that they own.&nbsp;“The purpose of providing these free books is to encourage parents to read with their children regularly.&nbsp; Providing educational resources to children in central and western Kansas is a very important part of the work we do at Smoky Hills PBS,” said Amanda Smith, Smoky Hills PBS marketing director. &nbsp;“We want to thank the Heartland Community Foundation for their support in allowing us to continue this program in Trego, Rooks, and Ellis counties."The Heartland Community Foundation was founded in 2007, to serve as a vehicle for charitable giving benefiting Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties.&nbsp; The Foundation is a permanent source of charitable assets to meet both the emerging and existing needs of the local communities.&nbsp; The Heartland Community Foundation is an affiliate of the Greater Salina Community Foundation.

Heartland Community Foundation awards grant to Smoky Hills PBS

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher Food insecurity, or the lack of consistent access to enough food, is not something that is top of my mind very often. It probably should be, but it just isn’t. I have enough food, actually more than enough, and given the frantic pace of my life I often neglect to give a second thought to those who are not blessed like I am. I also think many of us in rural America think it is a big city or urban problem. It is not. In fact, I think we would all be shocked to know how many of our neighbors are food insecure. Those of us who live in rural Kansas are proud people and often it is hard for us to ask for help. Your neighbors who may be food insecure are just like you. There is a certain stigma associated with not having enough food, especially in rural areas. Food insecurity happens for many reasons, and many are nothing to be ashamed of, but the reality of the situation is tough. A related aspect is something called a food desert, which also is something I had not really thought about before or the fact that many of us live in them. A food desert is an area that may lack places to buy good-quality or healthy, fresh food. We have seen many of our small, rural grocery stores disappear leaving those who struggle with transportation facing food insecurity simply because they cannot drive to a larger city to shop. I find all of this stunning. We live in the breadbasket of the United States, we grow a large part of the food for our population and yet we have hungry people in our midst. I have problems wrapping my head around it. But it all makes sense, food, especially healthy, fresh food is hard to come by in some of our towns. Couple that with the fact that eating healthy and staying away from packaged and premade food is expensive. Put it all together and we have a problem right here in our backyards. That is why we, the members of Kansas Farm Bureau, are the perfect people to help fight hunger in our communities. We did that last year, when we raised nearly $100,000 in the middle of the pandemic to help our neighbors with a campaign to End Hunger in Kansas. That money went to food banks and pantries across the state. Now we are rolling out Phase 2 and many counties will be partnering with their local Farm Bureau agents, continuing the effort to End Hunger. The Kansas Farm Bureau Foundation will be provide grants to assist county Farm Bureaus with projects to help their communities. Watch your local Farm Bureau for an announcement about how they’re planning to help and then jump in. We are incredibly blessed to live in the small communities most of us are part of, and we probably do not even know how much some of our neighbors are hurting. This is the perfect way to help. I do not know about fixing hunger worldwide, but I do know that if we each dig in, we can solve the problem right here at home. Together we can End Hunger in Kansas.

"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/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="Glenn Brunkow" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher Food insecurity, or the lack of consistent access to enough food, is not something that is top of my mind very often. It probably should be, but it just isn’t. I have enough food, actually more than enough, and given the frantic pace of my life I often neglect to give a second thought to those who are not blessed like I am. I also think many of us in rural America think it is a big city or urban problem. It is not. In fact, I think we would all be shocked to know how many of our neighbors are food insecure. Those of us who live in rural Kansas are proud people and often it is hard for us to ask for help. Your neighbors who may be food insecure are just like you. There is a certain stigma associated with not having enough food, especially in rural areas. Food insecurity happens for many reasons, and many are nothing to be ashamed of, but the reality of the situation is tough. A related aspect is something called a food desert, which also is something I had not really thought about before or the fact that many of us live in them. A food desert is an area that may lack places to buy good-quality or healthy, fresh food. We have seen many of our small, rural grocery stores disappear leaving those who struggle with transportation facing food insecurity simply because they cannot drive to a larger city to shop. I find all of this stunning. We live in the breadbasket of the United States, we grow a large part of the food for our population and yet we have hungry people in our midst. I have problems wrapping my head around it. But it all makes sense, food, especially healthy, fresh food is hard to come by in some of our towns. Couple that with the fact that eating healthy and staying away from packaged and premade food is expensive. Put it all together and we have a problem right here in our backyards. That is why we, the members of Kansas Farm Bureau, are the perfect people to help fight hunger in our communities. We did that last year, when we raised nearly $100,000 in the middle of the pandemic to help our neighbors with a campaign to End Hunger in Kansas. That money went to food banks and pantries across the state. Now we are rolling out Phase 2 and many counties will be partnering with their local Farm Bureau agents, continuing the effort to End Hunger. The Kansas Farm Bureau Foundation will be provide grants to assist county Farm Bureaus with projects to help their communities. Watch your local Farm Bureau for an announcement about how they’re planning to help and then jump in. We are incredibly blessed to live in the small communities most of us are part of, and we probably do not even know how much some of our neighbors are hurting. This is the perfect way to help. I do not know about fixing hunger worldwide, but I do know that if we each dig in, we can solve the problem right here at home. Together we can End Hunger in Kansas."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: Ending hunger at home

Three-day weather outlook

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/jobs.aspx">HERE</a>&nbsp;to visit the Ellis County Employment Opportunities page.

The Human Resources Coordinator 
is responsible for the major areas of employee recruitment, selection, 
and retention through employee relations, compensation, professional 
development, and benefits. This position will manage processes for new 
employee orientation as well as employee transfers and terminations.&nbsp; 
The Human Resources Coordinator has considerable latitude for 
independent judgment and initiative within established policies and 
procedures when determining work priorities.&nbsp; This employee handles 
confidential information when working with personnel records and will 
ensure the privacy of all protected information in compliance with 
federal and state laws.&nbsp; A resume will be required to be submitted with 
application.&nbsp; Starting Pay is $27.71 per hour with a pay raise at 6 
months and one year, 10 paid holidays and 21 days paid vacation per 
year, KPERS retirement, longevity bonus after two years, and health 
insurance paid at 86%.

This 
employee is responsible for the bookkeeping and clerical duties, as well
 as coordinating environmental activities with the Environmental 
Associate. The Environmental Technician routinely acts in implementing 
and monitoring Ellis County environmental programs. This employee may 
assist with field testing and review, perform site inspections under 
supervision, and develop database programs in relation to environmental 
activities.&nbsp; High school diploma or GED and two years of clerical and 
bookkeeping experience are preferred.&nbsp; Starting Pay is $16.05 per hour 
with a pay raise at 6 months and one year, 10 paid holidays and 21 days 
paid vacation per year, KPERS retirement, longevity bonus after two 
years, and health insurance paid at 86%.

Under 
the supervision of the Shop Foreman, the Mechanic performs semi-skilled 
and skilled mechanical work on equipment and vehicles assigned to the 
Ellis County Public Works Department. The employee in this position is 
responsible for performing the required maintenance and repair of 
vehicles and equipment for the Public Works Department. &nbsp;High School 
diploma or GED and two years of mechanic experience is required. A class
 B commercial driver's license with tanker endorsement is required. 
Successful applicant will be required to participate in the FHWA (CDL) 
drug-testing program.&nbsp; Starting Pay is $17.34 per hour with a pay raise 
at 6 months and one year, 10 paid holidays and 21 days paid vacation per
 year, KPERS retirement, longevity bonus after two years, and health 
insurance paid at 86%.

Ellis County Public 
Works is accepting applications for the full time position of Truck 
Driver in the Road and Bridge division.&nbsp; This employee hauls material to
 the job site for the repair and construction of roads within Ellis 
County.&nbsp; The truck driver also performs routine manual work in the 
operation of light and heavy equipment for loading and transporting 
materials.&nbsp; High school diploma or GED and one year truck driving 
experience are required.&nbsp; A class B commercial drivers license with 
tanker endorsement is required.&nbsp; Successful applicant will be required 
to participate in the FHWA (CDL) drug-testing program.&nbsp; Starting Pay is 
$14.25 per hour with a pay raise at 6 months and one year, 10 paid 
holidays and 21 days paid vacation per year, KPERS retirement, longevity
 bonus after two years, and health insurance paid at 86%.

A
 paid-per-call firefighters respond to fires, rescues, medical assists, 
hazardous conditions, and other related emergencies. It requires a 
significant amount of teamwork when working on emergency scenes to 
conducting regular fire company activities. Our firefighters work under 
the direct supervision of company officers to include a company chief.

Each
 firefighter understands they represent a larger ECFD organization and 
shall act, train, perform duties in such a way that they demonstrate 
pride and ownership in their department. An ECFD firefighter should have
 excellent interpersonal communication skills as they are expected to 
have direct contact with different public safety officials, the 
community, as well as fire and rescue victims. ECFD firefighters must be
 able to make quick decisions, take calculated risks, and take immediate
 actions on emergency scenes while maintaining safety in these actions.

Firefighters
 are required to complete basic NIMS courses, maintain CPR/First aid 
certification, hazardous materials awareness, attend 75% of scheduled 
monthly trainings, and report to their assigned companies when available
 for emergency responses. ECFD firefighters must read, understand, and 
abide by the ECFD standard operating procedures. Before firefighters are
 able to respond and/or drive apparatus to emergencies, firefighters are
 to complete an in-house training program. ECFD firefighters must be 18 
years of age with a valid driver’s license.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626273354523.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/jobs.aspx">HERE</a>&nbsp;to visit the Ellis County Employment Opportunities page.<h2>Human Resources Coordinator</h2>The Human Resources Coordinator 
is responsible for the major areas of employee recruitment, selection, 
and retention through employee relations, compensation, professional 
development, and benefits. This position will manage processes for new 
employee orientation as well as employee transfers and terminations.&nbsp; 
The Human Resources Coordinator has considerable latitude for 
independent judgment and initiative within established policies and 
procedures when determining work priorities.&nbsp; This employee handles 
confidential information when working with personnel records and will 
ensure the privacy of all protected information in compliance with 
federal and state laws.&nbsp; A resume will be required to be submitted with 
application.&nbsp; Starting Pay is $27.71 per hour with a pay raise at 6 
months and one year, 10 paid holidays and 21 days paid vacation per 
year, KPERS retirement, longevity bonus after two years, and health 
insurance paid at 86%.<h2>Environmental Technician</h2>This 
employee is responsible for the bookkeeping and clerical duties, as well
 as coordinating environmental activities with the Environmental 
Associate. The Environmental Technician routinely acts in implementing 
and monitoring Ellis County environmental programs. This employee may 
assist with field testing and review, perform site inspections under 
supervision, and develop database programs in relation to environmental 
activities.&nbsp; High school diploma or GED and two years of clerical and 
bookkeeping experience are preferred.&nbsp; Starting Pay is $16.05 per hour 
with a pay raise at 6 months and one year, 10 paid holidays and 21 days 
paid vacation per year, KPERS retirement, longevity bonus after two 
years, and health insurance paid at 86%.<h2>Mechanic</h2>Under 
the supervision of the Shop Foreman, the Mechanic performs semi-skilled 
and skilled mechanical work on equipment and vehicles assigned to the 
Ellis County Public Works Department. The employee in this position is 
responsible for performing the required maintenance and repair of 
vehicles and equipment for the Public Works Department. &nbsp;High School 
diploma or GED and two years of mechanic experience is required. A class
 B commercial driver's license with tanker endorsement is required. 
Successful applicant will be required to participate in the FHWA (CDL) 
drug-testing program.&nbsp; Starting Pay is $17.34 per hour with a pay raise 
at 6 months and one year, 10 paid holidays and 21 days paid vacation per
 year, KPERS retirement, longevity bonus after two years, and health 
insurance paid at 86%.<h2>Truck Driver</h2>Ellis County Public 
Works is accepting applications for the full time position of Truck 
Driver in the Road and Bridge division.&nbsp; This employee hauls material to
 the job site for the repair and construction of roads within Ellis 
County.&nbsp; The truck driver also performs routine manual work in the 
operation of light and heavy equipment for loading and transporting 
materials.&nbsp; High school diploma or GED and one year truck driving 
experience are required.&nbsp; A class B commercial drivers license with 
tanker endorsement is required.&nbsp; Successful applicant will be required 
to participate in the FHWA (CDL) drug-testing program.&nbsp; Starting Pay is 
$14.25 per hour with a pay raise at 6 months and one year, 10 paid 
holidays and 21 days paid vacation per year, KPERS retirement, longevity
 bonus after two years, and health insurance paid at 86%.<h2>Paid Per Call Firefighter</h2>A
 paid-per-call firefighters respond to fires, rescues, medical assists, 
hazardous conditions, and other related emergencies. It requires a 
significant amount of teamwork when working on emergency scenes to 
conducting regular fire company activities. Our firefighters work under 
the direct supervision of company officers to include a company chief.Each
 firefighter understands they represent a larger ECFD organization and 
shall act, train, perform duties in such a way that they demonstrate 
pride and ownership in their department. An ECFD firefighter should have
 excellent interpersonal communication skills as they are expected to 
have direct contact with different public safety officials, the 
community, as well as fire and rescue victims. ECFD firefighters must be
 able to make quick decisions, take calculated risks, and take immediate
 actions on emergency scenes while maintaining safety in these actions.Firefighters
 are required to complete basic NIMS courses, maintain CPR/First aid 
certification, hazardous materials awareness, attend 75% of scheduled 
monthly trainings, and report to their assigned companies when available
 for emergency responses. ECFD firefighters must read, understand, and 
abide by the ECFD standard operating procedures. Before firefighters are
 able to respond and/or drive apparatus to emergencies, firefighters are
 to complete an in-house training program. ECFD firefighters must be 18 
years of age with a valid driver’s license.

KDOT: Survey underway in Norton and Phillips counties

Pregame begins at 4:50 p.m. Wednesday, July 21

Pregame begins at 4:50 p.m. Wednesday, July 21<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FUzI4HR5thc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN - American Legion Baseball - Zone Tournament, Day 2

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 10 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.&nbsp;

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

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

Since reporting began, there have been 3,783 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths. On Monday, KDHE revised total case count downward, noting some cases reported are preliminary and subject to change.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626888145819.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 10 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Wednesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported six COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.Since reporting began, there have been 3,783 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths. On Monday, KDHE revised total case count downward, noting some cases reported are preliminary and subject to change.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626888222862.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: 10 new virus cases identified in Ellis Co. since Monday

On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director, Doug Williams speaks about how the condition of school buildings can impact economic development.

<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="Educational facilities a factor in economic development" 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=rm52n-1095527-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director, Doug Williams speaks about how the condition of school buildings can impact economic development.<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: Educational facilities a factor in economic development

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

After a bitter battle at the Ellis County Commission over the zoning for a local campground, the project has been resurrected.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7815a4ca-e1f2-45a7-a99d-bc45aa69e178">The Ellis County Commission denied a conditional-use permit for C2T Ranch to expand its campground and add an event venue.</a>

C2T Ranch is 14 miles north of Hays at 1202 Saline River Road.

Since May when the C2T Ranch's request was denied, Chad and Cynthia Tuttle, owners of the ranch, applied and received certification as an agritourism business.

This designation is an allowed use under the Ellis County zoning regulations, which means the Tuttles do not need to apply for a conditional-use permit to pursue expansion of its campground, said Mason Ruder, environmental planning supervisor.

Chad Tuttle said he thought this was precedent-setting for the county.

"It's going to be a major change for Ellis County, and we are finding that a lot of other counties are having to go through this big change too," Tuttle said. "We are now advocating at a state level for counties to recognize agritourism operations, which are very broadly defined — much more broadly defined than (Ellis County Commissioner) Butch Schlyer would have you believe."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/09c03d31-628f-4e02-b1ba-62e60ca49151">The county commission denied a similar request by the proposed Buckeye Barn event venue for a conditional-use permit in February.</a>&nbsp;This proposed venue would have been&nbsp;6 miles north of Hays and just east of U.S. 183 on Buckeye Road.

It was also to be built on land that is currently zoned for agriculture.

Hays Post asked Ruder if the development with C2T would change the status of the Buckeye Barn project. He said he was not sure. That business would also have to apply for agribusiness status with the state to fall under those regulations.

Hays Post reached out to Buckeye Barn applicant Leann Zimmerman, who had been a vocal opponent of the C2T project. No response was received at the time this story was posted.

Ellis County Commissioner Dean Haselhorst and Commissioner Neal Younger, who both voted against the C2T's conditional-use permit, expressed concerns about safety at the campground during the May commission meeting.

They said they were worried about how the campground would be evacuated in the event of flooding.&nbsp;The campsites are along a portion of the Saline River.&nbsp;

Haselhorst also expressed concern about fire danger.

Haselhorst said C2T Ranch needs to comply with the regulations that are in place. He kept his comments short as he was suffering from a cold.

Younger said he did not wish to comment further on the project other than to say he hopes that no dangerous incidents arise at the campground.

Tuttle explained aspects of the campground's emergency plan to the commissioners at the May county commission meeting. Some aspects of this plan include a water tanker available to use in fire suppression, an early warning emergency system for campers that uses cellphones and a storm shelter.

The Tuttles will still have to follow all state water and sewer regulations, Ruder said, including regulations that govern structures built in a floodplain.

Chad Tuttle said the campground is still dealing with water supply issues. He and his wife have not decided if they intend to regularly test water-quality on their well or to tap into rural water.

Tuttle said the campground will not fall under water quality regulations until it starts serving water to 25 people or more per day.

The Tuttles have said they would like to offer meat bundles to their campers from the ranching side of the operation. If they do, they would have to follow Kansas Department of Health and Environment guidelines, Ruder said.

The Tuttles are still in a dispute with Majestic Whitetail, which is partially owned by Jason Brin.&nbsp;

Brin argued against the permit for the campground at the county commission meeting, saying Majestic Whitetail has a hunting lease on the property that excludes the Tuttles from using the land for any other recreational purpose.

Hays Post contacted Brin for a comment on this story, but he had not responded to questions by the time this story was posted.

Other neighbors also argued against the permit at the county commission meeting expressing concerns with trash, sewage disposal and traffic.

The Tuttles have already completed nine primitive camping sites of the 12 that are planned, two camping sites with electrical hookups and one glamping site.

Tuttle said he hopes to add another glamping site and four more powered sites by fall.

Tuttle said he still plans to build a platform that will be used to mount a large tent that could be used for weddings and other events, but he does not anticipate that project will be completed until spring 2022.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52410f55-8946-4fd6-87c9-ce06e68a41e8">SEE RELATED STORY: C2T Ranch north of Hays seeks to expand campsites, add event venue.</a>

Tuttle said the campground has remained busy through the summer. Campsites can be booked through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hipcamp.com/">Hipcamp</a>&nbsp;Ap. The glampsites can also be booked through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.airbnb.com/">Airbnb</a>. You can learn more on the ranch on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c2tranch.com/">C2T's website</a>&nbsp;or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/c2tranch">Facebook page</a>.

Charges are still pending against Cynthia Tuttle for an altercation immediately following the May county commission meeting.

She made a first appearance on charges of misdemeanor battery and disorderly conduct on July 13, according to court records. She is free on bond, and her next court appearance is set for Aug. 24.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616007817885.jpeg" alt="C2T Ranch. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>C2T Ranch. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAfter a bitter battle at the Ellis County Commission over the zoning for a local campground, the project has been resurrected.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7815a4ca-e1f2-45a7-a99d-bc45aa69e178">The Ellis County Commission denied a conditional-use permit for C2T Ranch to expand its campground and add an event venue.</a>C2T Ranch is 14 miles north of Hays at 1202 Saline River Road.<h2>Agritourism designation</h2>Since May when the C2T Ranch's request was denied, Chad and Cynthia Tuttle, owners of the ranch, applied and received certification as an agritourism business.This designation is an allowed use under the Ellis County zoning regulations, which means the Tuttles do not need to apply for a conditional-use permit to pursue expansion of its campground, said Mason Ruder, environmental planning supervisor.Chad Tuttle said he thought this was precedent-setting for the county."It's going to be a major change for Ellis County, and we are finding that a lot of other counties are having to go through this big change too," Tuttle said. "We are now advocating at a state level for counties to recognize agritourism operations, which are very broadly defined — much more broadly defined than (Ellis County Commissioner) Butch Schlyer would have you believe."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616008392920.png" alt="C2T Ranch. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>C2T Ranch. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/09c03d31-628f-4e02-b1ba-62e60ca49151">The county commission denied a similar request by the proposed Buckeye Barn event venue for a conditional-use permit in February.</a>&nbsp;This proposed venue would have been&nbsp;6 miles north of Hays and just east of U.S. 183 on Buckeye Road.It was also to be built on land that is currently zoned for agriculture.Hays Post asked Ruder if the development with C2T would change the status of the Buckeye Barn project. He said he was not sure. That business would also have to apply for agribusiness status with the state to fall under those regulations.Hays Post reached out to Buckeye Barn applicant Leann Zimmerman, who had been a vocal opponent of the C2T project. No response was received at the time this story was posted. Ellis County Commissioner Dean Haselhorst and Commissioner Neal Younger, who both voted against the C2T's conditional-use permit, expressed concerns about safety at the campground during the May commission meeting.They said they were worried about how the campground would be evacuated in the event of flooding.&nbsp;The campsites are along a portion of the Saline River.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616007974198.png" alt="C2T Ranch / Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>C2T Ranch / Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Haselhorst also expressed concern about fire danger.Haselhorst said C2T Ranch needs to comply with the regulations that are in place. He kept his comments short as he was suffering from a cold.Younger said he did not wish to comment further on the project other than to say he hopes that no dangerous incidents arise at the campground.Tuttle explained aspects of the campground's emergency plan to the commissioners at the May county commission meeting. Some aspects of this plan include a water tanker available to use in fire suppression, an early warning emergency system for campers that uses cellphones and a storm shelter.The Tuttles will still have to follow all state water and sewer regulations, Ruder said, including regulations that govern structures built in a floodplain.Chad Tuttle said the campground is still dealing with water supply issues. He and his wife have not decided if they intend to regularly test water-quality on their well or to tap into rural water.Tuttle said the campground will not fall under water quality regulations until it starts serving water to 25 people or more per day.The Tuttles have said they would like to offer meat bundles to their campers from the ranching side of the operation. If they do, they would have to follow Kansas Department of Health and Environment guidelines, Ruder said.<h2>Disputes over hunting, angry neighbors</h2>The Tuttles are still in a dispute with Majestic Whitetail, which is partially owned by Jason Brin.&nbsp;Brin argued against the permit for the campground at the county commission meeting, saying Majestic Whitetail has a hunting lease on the property that excludes the Tuttles from using the land for any other recreational purpose.Hays Post contacted Brin for a comment on this story, but he had not responded to questions by the time this story was posted.Other neighbors also argued against the permit at the county commission meeting expressing concerns with trash, sewage disposal and traffic.<h2>Development onging</h2>The Tuttles have already completed nine primitive camping sites of the 12 that are planned, two camping sites with electrical hookups and one glamping site.Tuttle said he hopes to add another glamping site and four more powered sites by fall.Tuttle said he still plans to build a platform that will be used to mount a large tent that could be used for weddings and other events, but he does not anticipate that project will be completed until spring 2022.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/52410f55-8946-4fd6-87c9-ce06e68a41e8">SEE RELATED STORY: C2T Ranch north of Hays seeks to expand campsites, add event venue.</a>Tuttle said the campground has remained busy through the summer. Campsites can be booked through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hipcamp.com/">Hipcamp</a>&nbsp;Ap. The glampsites can also be booked through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.airbnb.com/">Airbnb</a>. You can learn more on the ranch on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c2tranch.com/">C2T's website</a>&nbsp;or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/c2tranch">Facebook page</a>.<h2>Pending charges</h2>Charges are still pending against Cynthia Tuttle for an altercation immediately following the May county commission meeting.She made a first appearance on charges of misdemeanor battery and disorderly conduct on July 13, according to court records. She is free on bond, and her next court appearance is set for Aug. 24.

C2T Ranch campground, venue moves forward as agritourism business

Hays USD 489 used federal COVID relief funds to pay for summer school this year and hopes to continue the service next summer.

School officials hoped summer school would give students who fell behind during the pandemic opportunities to strengthen their skills.

Assistant Superintendent Shanna Dinkel gave a report to the school board on Monday on summer learning.

One-hundred-five elementary students were enrolled in the district's summer program. Ninety-four students focused on reading, and 11 students focused on math.

Eighty-four students attended the middle school summer school, which had not been offered in many years, Dinkel said. These students also focused on math and reading.

Seventy-three students began the high school summer school program. Sixty students were still enrolled as of June 30. Forty-six courses were completed by those students as of June 30. Seven out-of-district courses were also completed.

All summer school fees were waived, and transportation was provided for children in the elementary through high school programs.&nbsp;

In addition, United Way funds supported an Early Childhood Connections social group for pre-kindergarten students. Fifteen children participated in that group.

The district also offered summer programming for students in its migrant program. Twenty-three students&nbsp;from 11 families in grades pre-kindergarten through high school participated.

The students participated in outdoor, STEM and literacy projects.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays USD 489 used federal COVID relief funds to pay for summer school this year and hopes to continue the service next summer.School officials hoped summer school would give students who fell behind during the pandemic opportunities to strengthen their skills.Assistant Superintendent Shanna Dinkel gave a report to the school board on Monday on summer learning.One-hundred-five elementary students were enrolled in the district's summer program. Ninety-four students focused on reading, and 11 students focused on math.Eighty-four students attended the middle school summer school, which had not been offered in many years, Dinkel said. These students also focused on math and reading.Seventy-three students began the high school summer school program. Sixty students were still enrolled as of June 30. Forty-six courses were completed by those students as of June 30. Seven out-of-district courses were also completed.All summer school fees were waived, and transportation was provided for children in the elementary through high school programs.&nbsp;In addition, United Way funds supported an Early Childhood Connections social group for pre-kindergarten students. Fifteen children participated in that group.The district also offered summer programming for students in its migrant program. Twenty-three students&nbsp;from 11 families in grades pre-kindergarten through high school participated.The students participated in outdoor, STEM and literacy projects.

Hays USD 489 hopes to continue summer school offerings next year

The Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 13 traffic stops Monday, July 12, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence--12th and Allen, Hays; 1:32 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—3300 block 183 Alt Hwy, Hays; 2 AM; 2:15 AM 
Drug Offenses—1200 block Vine St, Hay; 8:33 AM 
Criminal Trespass—1300 block Agnes Dr, Hays; 10:33 AM; 12:15 PM 
Tethering Violation--1300 block Steven Dr, Hays; 11:18 AM 
Found/Lost Property—4100 block Vine St, Hays; 12:16 PM 
Water Use Violation—1300 block Schwaller Ave, Hays; 1:24 PM; 1:55 PM 
MV Accident-Personal Injury--2500 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 3:41 PM; 4:28 PM 
Welfare Check—1400 block Milner St, Hays; 4:23 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—100 block W 15th St, Hays; 7:28 PM 
Assault—400 block Riley St, Hays; 9:07 PM 
Aggravated Assault—700 block W 12th St, Hays; 6/9 
Mental Health Call—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 10:02 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Tuesday, July 13, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Suicidal
Subject--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 1:23 AM 
Suspicious Vehicle—100 block E 13th St, Hays; 2:13 AM 
Dead Animal Call—400 block W 13th St, Hays; 10:18 AM 
Unwanted Person—2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 12:11 PM; 12:38 PM 
Impersonate Officer—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 2:52 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—1000 block Fort St, Hays; 2:58 PM 
Animal At Large—100 block Ash St, Hays; 5:47 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—2500 block General Hancock Rd, Hays; 6:42 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property--3500 block Hillcrest Dr, Hays; 7:45 PM; 7:54 PM 
Water Use Violation—1700 block Anthony Dr, Hays; 8:05 PM 
Open Door/Window--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 8:38 PM 
Disturbance – Noise—500 block W 16th St, Hays; 10:20 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--1600 block E 13th St, Hays; 10:46 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Wednesday, July 14, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Juvenile
Complaint—300 block W 6th St, Hays; 12:26 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block W 16th St, Hays; 1:32 AM 
Drug Offenses—3500 block Vine St, Hays; 2:30 AM; 2:37 AM 
Parking Complaint—1700 block Haney Dr, Hays; 9:33 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 11:30 AM 
Wildlife Incident—1300 block Eisenhower Rd, Hays; 11:59 AM 
Phone/Mail Scam—1000 block E 27th St, Hays; 12:12 PM 
Welfare Check—1700 block E 22nd St, Hays; 1:13 PM 
Robbery—300 block E 6th St, Hays; 2:26 PM 
Burglary/residence—400 block E 7th St, Hays; 2:41 PM 
Animal At Large—300 block Main St, Hays; 3:39 PM 
Suicidal Subject—1900 block Whittier Rd, Hays; 4:36 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—2300 block Timber Dr, Hays; 5:34 PM 
Disturbance – General—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 7:22 PM; 7:24 PM 
Animal Call—100 block W 15th St, Hays; 7:36 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—100 block E 17th St, Hays; 7:54 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 1 animal call and conducted 13 traffic stops Monday, July 12, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence--12th and Allen, Hays; 1:32 AM 
Domestic Disturbance—3300 block 183 Alt Hwy, Hays; 2 AM; 2:15 AM 
Drug Offenses—1200 block Vine St, Hay; 8:33 AM 
Criminal Trespass—1300 block Agnes Dr, Hays; 10:33 AM; 12:15 PM 
Tethering Violation--1300 block Steven Dr, Hays; 11:18 AM 
Found/Lost Property—4100 block Vine St, Hays; 12:16 PM 
Water Use Violation—1300 block Schwaller Ave, Hays; 1:24 PM; 1:55 PM 
MV Accident-Personal Injury--2500 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 3:41 PM; 4:28 PM 
Welfare Check—1400 block Milner St, Hays; 4:23 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—100 block W 15th St, Hays; 7:28 PM 
Assault—400 block Riley St, Hays; 9:07 PM 
Aggravated Assault—700 block W 12th St, Hays; 6/9 
Mental Health Call—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 10:02 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Tuesday, July 13, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Suicidal
Subject--1000 block E 8th St, Hays; 1:23 AM 
Suspicious Vehicle—100 block E 13th St, Hays; 2:13 AM 
Dead Animal Call—400 block W 13th St, Hays; 10:18 AM 
Unwanted Person—2700 block Epworth St, Hays; 12:11 PM; 12:38 PM 
Impersonate Officer—2700 block Vine St, Hays; 2:52 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—1000 block Fort St, Hays; 2:58 PM 
Animal At Large—100 block Ash St, Hays; 5:47 PM 
MV Accident-Hit and Run—2500 block General Hancock Rd, Hays; 6:42 PM 
Criminal Damage to Property--3500 block Hillcrest Dr, Hays; 7:45 PM; 7:54 PM 
Water Use Violation—1700 block Anthony Dr, Hays; 8:05 PM 
Open Door/Window--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 8:38 PM 
Disturbance – Noise—500 block W 16th St, Hays; 10:20 PM 
Driving Under the Influence--1600 block E 13th St, Hays; 10:46 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 7 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Wednesday, July 14, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Juvenile
Complaint—300 block W 6th St, Hays; 12:26 AM 
Driving Under the Influence--100 block W 16th St, Hays; 1:32 AM 
Drug Offenses—3500 block Vine St, Hays; 2:30 AM; 2:37 AM 
Parking Complaint—1700 block Haney Dr, Hays; 9:33 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley—2700 block Augusta Ln, Hays; 11:30 AM 
Wildlife Incident—1300 block Eisenhower Rd, Hays; 11:59 AM 
Phone/Mail Scam—1000 block E 27th St, Hays; 12:12 PM 
Welfare Check—1700 block E 22nd St, Hays; 1:13 PM 
Robbery—300 block E 6th St, Hays; 2:26 PM 
Burglary/residence—400 block E 7th St, Hays; 2:41 PM 
Animal At Large—300 block Main St, Hays; 3:39 PM 
Suicidal Subject—1900 block Whittier Rd, Hays; 4:36 PM 
Violation of Restraining Order/PFA—2300 block Timber Dr, Hays; 5:34 PM 
Disturbance – General—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 7:22 PM; 7:24 PM 
Animal Call—100 block W 15th St, Hays; 7:36 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—100 block E 17th St, Hays; 7:54 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Log, July 12-14

The Hays USD 489 school board voted to approved the purchase of new computers for Hays High School students and kindergarten-through eighth-grade staff.

The district plans to apply for Federal Emergency Connectivity Funding to purchase 900 student computers and 200 staff computers.

The federal funds will cover $400 for each student and staff computer. The savings will be $440,000. The district's cost will be $296,000.

Scott Summers, district technology director, said the district's vendor anticipates the cost of computer chips and the devices that contain them will continue to rise.

Summers said he is trying to get the order placed before the next price bump.

The school district has a computer replacement schedule, which calls for replacing student computers every four years. Staff computers are replaced every five years.

All of the computers that will be purchased with the federal funds were scheduled to be replaced at the end of the coming school year. This will allow the computers to be replaced six months early.

Summers said the computers will have an upgraded processor and more RAM.

With the computer chip shortages, the district is not anticipating the computers will not be delivered until November or December.

Summers said he hoped to have the computers rolled out by the second semester.&nbsp;

Tammy Wellbrock, newly elected board president, and Mike Walker,&nbsp;board member, both thanked Summers for his work to save the district money.

The computers that are being replaced will be sold. How much the school district receives for each computer will depend on its condition.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626747241467.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board voted to approved the purchase of new computers for Hays High School students and kindergarten-through eighth-grade staff.The district plans to apply for Federal Emergency Connectivity Funding to purchase 900 student computers and 200 staff computers.The federal funds will cover $400 for each student and staff computer. The savings will be $440,000. The district's cost will be $296,000.Scott Summers, district technology director, said the district's vendor anticipates the cost of computer chips and the devices that contain them will continue to rise.Summers said he is trying to get the order placed before the next price bump.The school district has a computer replacement schedule, which calls for replacing student computers every four years. Staff computers are replaced every five years.All of the computers that will be purchased with the federal funds were scheduled to be replaced at the end of the coming school year. This will allow the computers to be replaced six months early.Summers said the computers will have an upgraded processor and more RAM.With the computer chip shortages, the district is not anticipating the computers will not be delivered until November or December.Summers said he hoped to have the computers rolled out by the second semester.&nbsp;Tammy Wellbrock, newly elected board president, and Mike Walker,&nbsp;board member, both thanked Summers for his work to save the district money.The computers that are being replaced will be sold. How much the school district receives for each computer will depend on its condition.

Hays USD 489 to use federal funds to purchase computers

Russell Regional Hospital has welcomed new CEO David Caudill to the Russell area community. David began official duties on Monday, July 19. 

Caudill has a dynamic background in health care ranging from IT, Human Resources, EMT, and CEO experience. A graduate of Fort Hays State University, he is familiar with rural healthcare and the necessity rural healthcare is in Kansas. Leading hospital services in Ransom and Quinter, Caudill looks forward to working with the Russell area to sustain and grow local medical services. Caudill and his wife, Krystina, have a 5-year-old son who will be joining the Russell community.&nbsp;

“I’m excited to be at Russell Regional Hospital and utilize my education, experiences, and knowledge to assist in maintaining and growing health care in the Russell area," Caudill said. "Russell Regional Hospital offers many local health care benefits to the area and can also grow into new approaches and offerings for clients. I look forward to getting to know the Russell area community and leading one of the larger employers in the county. Rural health care is vital to the success of the Russell area and Kansas. I’m appreciative to offer my leadership and experience to the industry.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626798494381.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseRussell Regional Hospital has welcomed new CEO David Caudill to the Russell area community. David began official duties on Monday, July 19. Caudill has a dynamic background in health care ranging from IT, Human Resources, EMT, and CEO experience. A graduate of Fort Hays State University, he is familiar with rural healthcare and the necessity rural healthcare is in Kansas. Leading hospital services in Ransom and Quinter, Caudill looks forward to working with the Russell area to sustain and grow local medical services. Caudill and his wife, Krystina, have a 5-year-old son who will be joining the Russell community.&nbsp;“I’m excited to be at Russell Regional Hospital and utilize my education, experiences, and knowledge to assist in maintaining and growing health care in the Russell area," Caudill said. "Russell Regional Hospital offers many local health care benefits to the area and can also grow into new approaches and offerings for clients. I look forward to getting to know the Russell area community and leading one of the larger employers in the county. Rural health care is vital to the success of the Russell area and Kansas. I’m appreciative to offer my leadership and experience to the industry.”&nbsp;

Fort Hays State alum named CEO at Russell Regional Hospital

Thomas More Prep-Marian Jr./Sr. High School has welcomed Joseph Pfannenstiel to the TMP-Marian family as the seventh-grade religion instructor.&nbsp;

A 2010 graduate of TMP-Marian, Pfannenstiel continued his education at Fort Hays State University and Holy Apostles College and Seminary earning a bachelor’s degree in theology and history. While completing his education, Joseph has been working to support his family farm.&nbsp;

"I am looking forward to the opportunity to teach seventh-grade religion this fall at TMP-Marian. I remember when I was a student at
TMP-M, religion was always my favorite class, and I hope my students can say
the same. I consider it a privilege to be able to help young people grow in
their knowledge of the Church, and to deepen their relationship with Christ,” Pfannenstiel said. 

Principal Chad Meitner said he was thankful for the addition to the
religion department.

 "Mr. Pfannenstiel has an amazing love for our Lord
that he wishes to share with our students. It is a blessing to have an alumnus and
teacher with a theology degree join the faculty at TMP-Marian," he said. 

Pfannenstiel will step in for Bill Meagher as he transitions
teaching responsibilities to grades 11 and 12 as students prepare for their
senior capstone projects, the culmination of a student’s PK-12 Catholic
education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626789934559.jpeg" alt="Joseph Pfannenstiel" />
 <figcaption>Joseph Pfannenstiel</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-MarianThomas More Prep-Marian Jr./Sr. High School has welcomed Joseph Pfannenstiel to the TMP-Marian family as the seventh-grade religion instructor.&nbsp;A 2010 graduate of TMP-Marian, Pfannenstiel continued his education at Fort Hays State University and Holy Apostles College and Seminary earning a bachelor’s degree in theology and history. While completing his education, Joseph has been working to support his family farm.&nbsp;"I am looking forward to the opportunity to teach seventh-grade religion this fall at TMP-Marian. I remember when I was a student at
TMP-M, religion was always my favorite class, and I hope my students can say
the same. I consider it a privilege to be able to help young people grow in
their knowledge of the Church, and to deepen their relationship with Christ,” Pfannenstiel said. Principal Chad Meitner said he was thankful for the addition to the
religion department. "Mr. Pfannenstiel has an amazing love for our Lord
that he wishes to share with our students. It is a blessing to have an alumnus and
teacher with a theology degree join the faculty at TMP-Marian," he said. Pfannenstiel will step in for Bill Meagher as he transitions
teaching responsibilities to grades 11 and 12 as students prepare for their
senior capstone projects, the culmination of a student’s PK-12 Catholic
education.

TMP-M alum joins faculty as seventh-grade religion instructor

Bearded irises are well adapted to Kansas and multiply quickly. After several years, the centers of the clumps tend to lose vigor, and flowering occurs toward the outside. Dividing iris every three to five years will help rejuvenate the planting and increase flowering. Iris may be divided from late July through August, but late July through early August is ideal.Because iris clumps are fairly shallow, it is easy to dig up the entire clump. The root system of the plant consists of thick rhizomes and smaller feeder roots. Use a sharp knife to cut the rhizomes apart so each division consists of a fan of leaves and a section of rhizome. The best divisions are made from a double fan that consists of two small rhizomes attached to a larger one, which forms a Y-shaped division. Each of these small rhizomes has a fan of leaves. The rhizomes that do not split produce single fans. The double fans are preferred because they produce more flowers the first year after planting. Single fans take a year to build up strength. Rhizomes that show signs of damage due to iris borers or soft rot may be discarded, but you may want to physically remove borers from rhizomes and replant if the damage is not severe. It is possible to treat mild cases of soft rot by scraping out the affected tissue, allowing it to dry in the sun and dipping it in a 10 percent solution of household bleach. Make the bleach solution by mixing one-part bleach with nine parts water. Rinse the treated rhizomes with water and allow them to dry before replanting. Cut the leaves back by two-thirds before replanting. Prepare the soil by removing weeds and fertilizing. Fertilize according to soil test recommendations or by applying a complete fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, at the rate of 1 pound per 100 square feet. Mix the fertilizer into the soil to a depth of 6 inches. Be wary of using a complete fertilizer in areas that have been fertilized heavily in the past. A growing number of soil tests show high levels of phosphorus. In such cases, use a fertilizer that has a much higher first number (nitrogen) than the second (phosphorus). This Saturday, July 24, the Ellis County Master Gardeners will be at the Downtown Hays Market from 7:00 am- 1:00 pm selling iris rhizomes for $1 each. They will also be doing demonstrations on how to divide and plant the iris, as well as, answering any questions you may have.

Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Bearded irises are well adapted to Kansas and multiply quickly. After several years, the centers of the clumps tend to lose vigor, and flowering occurs toward the outside. Dividing iris every three to five years will help rejuvenate the planting and increase flowering. Iris may be divided from late July through August, but late July through early August is ideal.Because iris clumps are fairly shallow, it is easy to dig up the entire clump. The root system of the plant consists of thick rhizomes and smaller feeder roots. Use a sharp knife to cut the rhizomes apart so each division consists of a fan of leaves and a section of rhizome. The best divisions are made from a double fan that consists of two small rhizomes attached to a larger one, which forms a Y-shaped division. Each of these small rhizomes has a fan of leaves. The rhizomes that do not split produce single fans. The double fans are preferred because they produce more flowers the first year after planting. Single fans take a year to build up strength. Rhizomes that show signs of damage due to iris borers or soft rot may be discarded, but you may want to physically remove borers from rhizomes and replant if the damage is not severe. It is possible to treat mild cases of soft rot by scraping out the affected tissue, allowing it to dry in the sun and dipping it in a 10 percent solution of household bleach. Make the bleach solution by mixing one-part bleach with nine parts water. Rinse the treated rhizomes with water and allow them to dry before replanting. Cut the leaves back by two-thirds before replanting. Prepare the soil by removing weeds and fertilizing. Fertilize according to soil test recommendations or by applying a complete fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, at the rate of 1 pound per 100 square feet. Mix the fertilizer into the soil to a depth of 6 inches. Be wary of using a complete fertilizer in areas that have been fertilized heavily in the past. A growing number of soil tests show high levels of phosphorus. In such cases, use a fertilizer that has a much higher first number (nitrogen) than the second (phosphorus). This Saturday, July 24, the Ellis County Master Gardeners will be at the Downtown Hays Market from 7:00 am- 1:00 pm selling iris rhizomes for $1 each. They will also be doing demonstrations on how to divide and plant the iris, as well as, answering any questions you may have. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Dividing irises

The Hays USD 489 school board took four votes Monday night to elect a new president.

The board has a reorganization every July, which is the beginning of the district's fiscal year. During the reorganization, a president, vice-president and other personnel are appointed by the board.

Board member Lori Hertel nominated Craig Pallister, board vice president, for the president position.&nbsp;

Board member Allen Park said he seconded the motion because Pallister had been the vice-president for the last year, he had training to be president and he has more than 30 years of administrative experience. Pallister served as the principal at Hays Middle School.

That motion failed on a vote of 2-3, with Allen Park and Lori Hertel voting for Pallister for president and Pallister and board members Tammy Wellbrock and Mike Walker voting against.

Board members Nuchelle Chance and Lance Bickle were not at the meeting.

Pallister nominated Tammy Wellbrock for president of the board.

The vote failed to pass on a vote of 3-2, with Wellbrock, Walker and Pallister voting for, and Park and Hertel voting against. Four yes votes are required for the board to pass a measure.

A motion to table the vote on the president position failed.

Pallister said anyone on the board is qualified to serve as president.&nbsp;

Wellbrock said she asked not to be nominated for president or vice-president last year because she was entering a new job. This year her son will be graduating from Hays High School.&nbsp;

She said if she served as president of the board, she would prefer to do it this year, so she could have the pleasure of signing her son's diploma. She said in talks with Pallister, he was OK with this happening.

Wellbrock expressed her intent to take the president leadership training through the Kansas Association of School Boards.

Board member Lance Bickle then called into the meeting.

Allen Park moved to nominate Criag Pallister as president.

That motion failed again on a vote of 2-3-1, with Park and Hertel voting for, Bickle, Walker and Wellbrock voting against, and Pallister abstaining.

Another motion was made nominating Tammy Wellbrock as the board president. That vote passed 4-1-1, with Walker, Bickle, Wellbrock and Hertel voting for, Park voting against and Pallister abstaining.

Wellbrock will serve until July 2022. Pallister was unanimously elected to serve as vice-president.

The board approved the replacement of the district network. The cost of the replacement will be&nbsp;$384,000. However, the school qualifies for E-rate funds, which means the district's cost will be reduced to $135,000.

The E-rate program provides discounts to assist schools to obtain affordable internet access and telecommunications services.

Replacing the network will increase security, coverage and the district's ability to manage the system.

The board approved the new classified handbook, which includes new longevity bonuses for classified staff. • After completion of five years of service, staff members would receive 1 percent raise. • After completion of 10 years of service a 1.5 percent raise • After completion of 15 years of service a 1.5 percent raise • After completion of 20 years of service a 2 percent raise

This policy already existed in the custodians' contracts. The custodians contracts used to be negotiated by their union.

Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said the raises will cost $15,000 to $18,000 this year. He said he hoped the raises would reduce turnover and help in recruiting new employees.

The board also approved the student handbook and an application for a new building number for The Learning Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590760357732.jpeg" alt="Wellbrock" />
 <figcaption>Wellbrock</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board took four votes Monday night to elect a new president.The board has a reorganization every July, which is the beginning of the district's fiscal year. During the reorganization, a president, vice-president and other personnel are appointed by the board.Board member Lori Hertel nominated Craig Pallister, board vice president, for the president position.&nbsp;Board member Allen Park said he seconded the motion because Pallister had been the vice-president for the last year, he had training to be president and he has more than 30 years of administrative experience. Pallister served as the principal at Hays Middle School.That motion failed on a vote of 2-3, with Allen Park and Lori Hertel voting for Pallister for president and Pallister and board members Tammy Wellbrock and Mike Walker voting against.Board members Nuchelle Chance and Lance Bickle were not at the meeting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590760357732.jpeg" alt="Tammy Wellbrock" />
 <figcaption>Tammy Wellbrock</figcaption>
 </figure>Pallister nominated Tammy Wellbrock for president of the board.The vote failed to pass on a vote of 3-2, with Wellbrock, Walker and Pallister voting for, and Park and Hertel voting against. Four yes votes are required for the board to pass a measure.A motion to table the vote on the president position failed.Pallister said anyone on the board is qualified to serve as president.&nbsp;Wellbrock said she asked not to be nominated for president or vice-president last year because she was entering a new job. This year her son will be graduating from Hays High School.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626807889008.png" alt="Craig Pallister" />
 <figcaption>Craig Pallister</figcaption>
 </figure>She said if she served as president of the board, she would prefer to do it this year, so she could have the pleasure of signing her son's diploma. She said in talks with Pallister, he was OK with this happening.Wellbrock expressed her intent to take the president leadership training through the Kansas Association of School Boards.Board member Lance Bickle then called into the meeting.Allen Park moved to nominate Criag Pallister as president.That motion failed again on a vote of 2-3-1, with Park and Hertel voting for, Bickle, Walker and Wellbrock voting against, and Pallister abstaining.Another motion was made nominating Tammy Wellbrock as the board president. That vote passed 4-1-1, with Walker, Bickle, Wellbrock and Hertel voting for, Park voting against and Pallister abstaining.Wellbrock will serve until July 2022. Pallister was unanimously elected to serve as vice-president.<h2>Network replacement</h2>The board approved the replacement of the district network. The cost of the replacement will be&nbsp;$384,000. However, the school qualifies for E-rate funds, which means the district's cost will be reduced to $135,000.The E-rate program provides discounts to assist schools to obtain affordable internet access and telecommunications services.Replacing the network will increase security, coverage and the district's ability to manage the system.<h2>Classified longevity bonuses</h2>The board approved the new classified handbook, which includes new longevity bonuses for classified staff. • After completion of five years of service, staff members would receive 1 percent raise. • After completion of 10 years of service a 1.5 percent raise • After completion of 15 years of service a 1.5 percent raise • After completion of 20 years of service a 2 percent raiseThis policy already existed in the custodians' contracts. The custodians contracts used to be negotiated by their union.Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said the raises will cost $15,000 to $18,000 this year. He said he hoped the raises would reduce turnover and help in recruiting new employees.<h2>Other business</h2>The board also approved the student handbook and an application for a new building number for The Learning Center.

Hays USD 489 school board elects Wellbrock new president

The Hays Fire Department responded just after 7 a.m. Tuesday to a report of smoke coming from a water heater
located at Wendy's restaurant, 1800 Vine. 

According to a news release from Shane Preston, deputy chief, fire crews found a small
amount of smoke coming from the bottom of the water heater. 

They immediately doused the smoldering embers with a water fire extinguisher.
Damage was contained to the water heater. 

Cause of the fire was a faulty water
heater, according to Preston.

Preston told Hays Post the restaurant was open for breakfast business, "but by the time we arrived, Hays police had gotten customers and their vehicles our of our way."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626794778894.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Fire DepartmentThe Hays Fire Department responded just after 7 a.m. Tuesday to a report of smoke coming from a water heater
located at Wendy's restaurant, 1800 Vine. According to a news release from Shane Preston, deputy chief, fire crews found a small
amount of smoke coming from the bottom of the water heater. They immediately doused the smoldering embers with a water fire extinguisher.
Damage was contained to the water heater. Cause of the fire was a faulty water
heater, according to Preston.Preston told Hays Post the restaurant was open for breakfast business, "but by the time we arrived, Hays police had gotten customers and their vehicles our of our way."No injuries were reported.The Hays Fire
Department, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, and Hays
Police Department all responded.

Hays Fire Department responds to report of smoke at Wendy's  

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares the latest from the Hays Chamber.

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber continues to develop health insurance offering" 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=twyn2-1093ded-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&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 shares the latest from the Hays Chamber.<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 Chamber continues to develop health insurance offering

Beginning Thursday, various Hays streets will receive a seal coat. See the map above and online at <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=4071">www.haysusa.com</a> for locations.

On the date scheduled for treatment, all cars need to be moved from the street by 8 a.m. Streets being sealed will be closed from approximately 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Access can be achieved in cases of emergency. Parking on adjacent streets is recommended during the daytime. Parking in driveways is OK if you do not plan on moving the vehicle between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. 

Please have all lawn watering devices turned off the evening before the scheduled date. Please help keep the streets clean and dry for a smooth and lasting project. 

Notification of adjacent properties will be made door to door 24 hours in advance of the work. 

This project is scheduled to be completed within two weeks (pending weather conditions). 

The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, call the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626789448048.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning Thursday, various Hays streets will receive a seal coat. See the map above and online at <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=4071">www.haysusa.com</a> for locations. On the date scheduled for treatment, all cars need to be moved from the street by 8 a.m. Streets being sealed will be closed from approximately 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Access can be achieved in cases of emergency. Parking on adjacent streets is recommended during the daytime. Parking in driveways is OK if you do not plan on moving the vehicle between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Please have all lawn watering devices turned off the evening before the scheduled date. Please help keep the streets clean and dry for a smooth and lasting project. Notification of adjacent properties will be made door to door 24 hours in advance of the work. This project is scheduled to be completed within two weeks (pending weather conditions). The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, call the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

Seal coat street project begins Thursday throughout Hays

The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 14 traffic stops Thursday, July 8, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Driving
Under the Influence—1500 block Vine St, Hays; 2:16 AM 
Suspicious Person—300 block E 13th St, Hays; 7/7 8:00 PM; 9 PM 
Mental Health Call—100 block W 21st St, Hays; 1:25 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—400 block Allen St, Hays; 2:38 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--29th and Walnut St, Hays; 3:02 PM 
Driving Under the Influence—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 4:44 PM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ—100 block W 8th St, Hays; 11:06 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 11 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Friday, July 9, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Drug
Offenses—3300 block Pine Valley Dr, Hays; 8:10 AM; 8:17 AM 
Dead Animal Call—1100 block Elm St, Hays; 8:39 AM 
Animal At Large—1300 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 9:22 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1200 block Vine St, Hays; 9:49 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1400 block W 43rd St, Hays; 9:26 AM 
Animal Cruelty/Neglect—5200 block Vine St, Hays; 10:35 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1400 block US 183 Alt Hwy, Hays; 12:54 PM 
Unwanted Person—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 12:56 PM 
Suicidal Subject—1100 block E 17th St, Hays; 1:30 PM 
Suspicious Activity—500 block Halladay St, Hays; 2:45 PM 
Unwanted Person—4000 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 5:24 PM 
Drug Offenses—1000 block E 17th St, Hays; 6:35 PM 
Drug Offenses--1000 block Fort St, Hays; 9:28 PM; 10:16 PM 
Animal Cruelty/Neglect—2100 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 9:54 PM 
Drug Offenses--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 11 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 18 traffic stops Saturday, July 10, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Unattended
Death—300 block E 18th St, Hays; 12:06 AM 
&nbsp;Animal At Large—4500 block Danby Ln,
Hays; 10:21 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1900 block Lincoln St, Hays; 11:40 AM 
Dead Animal Call--2200 block Haney Dr, Hays; 11:54 AM 
Suspicious Person—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:27 PM; 2:12 PM 
Mental Health Call—1300 block Lawrence Dr, Hays; 6:230 PM 
Found/Lost Property—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 8:30 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 20th St, Hays; 9:28 PM 
Animal Bite Investigation—1900 block Longfellow Rd, Hays; 10:02 PM 
Suicidal Subject—1900 block Whittier Rd, Hays; 10:06 PM 
Drug Offenses/DUI--1000 block Allen St, Hays; 11:57 PM

The Hays Police Department responded to 10 animal calls and conducted 21 traffic stops Sunday, July 11 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.

Disorderly
Conduct—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:10 AM; 1:23 AM 
Sex Offense--500 block W 7th St, N Alley, Hays; 2:23 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—300 block W 6th St, Hays; 12 AM; 2 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--48th and Vine, Hays; 8:49 AM 
Animal At Large—1300 block Felten Dr, Hays; 10:45 AM 
Juvenile Complaint—2800 block Indian Trl, Hays; 1:10 PM 
Animal Bite Investigation—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 2:30 PM 
Welfare Check—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 2:41 PM 
Suspicious Activity—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 5:38 PM 
Found/Lost Property—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 7:10 PM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—2700 block Hickory St, Hays; 7:21 PM 
False/Altered ID--200 block W 10th St, Hays; 9:02 PM 
Animal Call—200 block E 11th St, Hays; 9:04 PM 
Pursuit/Chase--2400 block Vine St, Hays; 10:20 PM

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Police Department responded to 3 animal calls and conducted 14 traffic stops Thursday, July 8, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Driving
Under the Influence—1500 block Vine St, Hays; 2:16 AM 
Suspicious Person—300 block E 13th St, Hays; 7/7 8:00 PM; 9 PM 
Mental Health Call—100 block W 21st St, Hays; 1:25 PM 
Abandoned Vehicle—400 block Allen St, Hays; 2:38 PM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--29th and Walnut St, Hays; 3:02 PM 
Driving Under the Influence—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 4:44 PM 
Underage Possession of CMB/LIQ—100 block W 8th St, Hays; 11:06 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 11 animal calls and conducted 6 traffic stops Friday, July 9, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Drug
Offenses—3300 block Pine Valley Dr, Hays; 8:10 AM; 8:17 AM 
Dead Animal Call—1100 block Elm St, Hays; 8:39 AM 
Animal At Large—1300 block Canterbury Dr, Hays; 9:22 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1200 block Vine St, Hays; 9:49 AM 
Lost Animals ONLY—1400 block W 43rd St, Hays; 9:26 AM 
Animal Cruelty/Neglect—5200 block Vine St, Hays; 10:35 AM 
Found/Lost Property—1400 block US 183 Alt Hwy, Hays; 12:54 PM 
Unwanted Person—3400 block Vine St, Hays; 12:56 PM 
Suicidal Subject—1100 block E 17th St, Hays; 1:30 PM 
Suspicious Activity—500 block Halladay St, Hays; 2:45 PM 
Unwanted Person—4000 block Gen Hays Rd, Hays; 5:24 PM 
Drug Offenses—1000 block E 17th St, Hays; 6:35 PM 
Drug Offenses--1000 block Fort St, Hays; 9:28 PM; 10:16 PM 
Animal Cruelty/Neglect—2100 block Canal Blvd, Hays; 9:54 PM 
Drug Offenses--700 block E 6th St, Hays; 11 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 6 animal calls and conducted 18 traffic stops Saturday, July 10, 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Unattended
Death—300 block E 18th St, Hays; 12:06 AM 
&nbsp;Animal At Large—4500 block Danby Ln,
Hays; 10:21 AM 
MV Accident-City Street/Alley--1900 block Lincoln St, Hays; 11:40 AM 
Dead Animal Call--2200 block Haney Dr, Hays; 11:54 AM 
Suspicious Person—4300 block Vine St, Hays; 1:27 PM; 2:12 PM 
Mental Health Call—1300 block Lawrence Dr, Hays; 6:230 PM 
Found/Lost Property—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 8:30 PM 
Lost Animals ONLY—300 block W 20th St, Hays; 9:28 PM 
Animal Bite Investigation—1900 block Longfellow Rd, Hays; 10:02 PM 
Suicidal Subject—1900 block Whittier Rd, Hays; 10:06 PM 
Drug Offenses/DUI--1000 block Allen St, Hays; 11:57 PMThe Hays Police Department responded to 10 animal calls and conducted 21 traffic stops Sunday, July 11 2021, according to the HPD Activity Log.Disorderly
Conduct—500 block W 7th St, Hays; 1:10 AM; 1:23 AM 
Sex Offense--500 block W 7th St, N Alley, Hays; 2:23 AM 
Criminal Damage to Property—300 block W 6th St, Hays; 12 AM; 2 AM 
Warrant Service (Fail to Appear)--48th and Vine, Hays; 8:49 AM 
Animal At Large—1300 block Felten Dr, Hays; 10:45 AM 
Juvenile Complaint—2800 block Indian Trl, Hays; 1:10 PM 
Animal Bite Investigation—1300 block E 33rd St, Hays; 2:30 PM 
Welfare Check—100 block W 12th St, Hays; 2:41 PM 
Suspicious Activity—500 block W 27th St, Hays; 5:38 PM 
Found/Lost Property—3200 block Vine St, Hays; 7:10 PM 
Assist - Other (not MV)—2700 block Hickory St, Hays; 7:21 PM 
False/Altered ID--200 block W 10th St, Hays; 9:02 PM 
Animal Call—200 block E 11th St, Hays; 9:04 PM 
Pursuit/Chase--2400 block Vine St, Hays; 10:20 PM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140734289.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Hays PD Activity Log, July 8-11

PHILLIPSBURG — When the gates crack open at the 92nd&nbsp;annual Phillipsburg Rodeo, there will be a doctor in the house. And in the arena.

Dr. Dusta Kimzey O’Connell, a doctor of pharmacy, has a job that involves a specialty act, trick riding, roman riding and whip cracking at rodeos across the nation, and she’ll entertain in Phillipsburg August 5-6-7.

Trick riding is a long-time western heritage art, like gymnastics on a horse galloping 30 miles an hour around the arena. It combines glitz, glamour and rhinestones with daring stunts that would make a Hollywood stuntwoman shake in her boots.

O’Connell first fell in love with trick riding as she traveled with her parents to rodeos, and the first trick rider she saw was Melissa Riddle Navarre, whose daughters she will perform with in Phillipsburg. “Melissa and her big beautiful horse Concho are still what I try to be, in and out of the arena,” she said.&nbsp;

At age ten, she attended trick riding camps and worked her first pro rodeo five years later. From there, she’s worked rodeos across the nation. &nbsp;

O’Connell is no stranger to Kansas Biggest Rodeo. The daughter of Ted Kimzey, who was a barrelman in Phillipsburg for years, she attended the rodeo as a child, tagging along with her brothers, Sage, now a six-time world champion bull rider and younger brother Trey, also a bull rider. Both brothers have competed in Phillipsburg. &nbsp;

She has a “day gig,” as she calls it, as a pharmacist in western Oklahoma, where she lives. She graduated from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, Okla. with her doctorate of pharmacy, and works full time, juggling her schedule around her rodeo work.&nbsp;

O’Connell’s trick riding horse is a palomino with a white face named Big Ike. Big Ike is a movie star; O’Connell rode him as a stunt double in the movie&nbsp;Cowgirls ‘N Angels.&nbsp;

Her secondary horse is a bay roan named Eight Ball who she has ridden for the past four years.&nbsp;

O’Connell loves coming to Kansas Biggest Rodeo. “My first memories of Phillipsburg are as a young tike,” she said. “I know that Phillipsburg has always been one of my dad’s favorite rodeos. It’s special to get to go back.”&nbsp;

Tricked Out Trick Riding, featuring the Navarre girls, will be the specialty act during each night of Kansas Biggest Rodeo August 5-7. Rodeo performances start at 8 pm nightly. Tickets are on sale online at&nbsp;<a href="https://ruthnicolaus-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/Redirect?ukey=1gq47uVjXtYdTo9Z5XSXRjEyqjlqqLe2G-bKjPdyj97Q-1551052817&amp;key=YAMMID-90144103&amp;link=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kansasbiggestrodeo.com">www.kansasbiggestrodeo.com</a>&nbsp;and start at $16 for adults and $12 for children.&nbsp;

For more information, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;or call 785.543.2448.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626701620214.jpeg" alt="Dr. Dusta Kimzey O’Connell carries the American flag as she does a hippodrome on Big Ike at a rodeo. The Strong City, Okla. cowgirl will be the specialty act at this year’s Phillipsburg rodeo, alongside the Navarre girls Shyla and Layna. Photo by Terri Abrahamson. " />
 <figcaption>Dr. Dusta Kimzey O’Connell carries the American flag as she does a hippodrome on Big Ike at a rodeo. The Strong City, Okla. cowgirl will be the specialty act at this year’s Phillipsburg rodeo, alongside the Navarre girls Shyla and Layna. Photo by Terri Abrahamson. </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedPHILLIPSBURG — When the gates crack open at the 92nd&nbsp;annual Phillipsburg Rodeo, there will be a doctor in the house. And in the arena.Dr. Dusta Kimzey O’Connell, a doctor of pharmacy, has a job that involves a specialty act, trick riding, roman riding and whip cracking at rodeos across the nation, and she’ll entertain in Phillipsburg August 5-6-7.Trick riding is a long-time western heritage art, like gymnastics on a horse galloping 30 miles an hour around the arena. It combines glitz, glamour and rhinestones with daring stunts that would make a Hollywood stuntwoman shake in her boots.O’Connell first fell in love with trick riding as she traveled with her parents to rodeos, and the first trick rider she saw was Melissa Riddle Navarre, whose daughters she will perform with in Phillipsburg. “Melissa and her big beautiful horse Concho are still what I try to be, in and out of the arena,” she said.&nbsp;At age ten, she attended trick riding camps and worked her first pro rodeo five years later. From there, she’s worked rodeos across the nation. &nbsp;O’Connell is no stranger to Kansas Biggest Rodeo. The daughter of Ted Kimzey, who was a barrelman in Phillipsburg for years, she attended the rodeo as a child, tagging along with her brothers, Sage, now a six-time world champion bull rider and younger brother Trey, also a bull rider. Both brothers have competed in Phillipsburg. &nbsp;She has a “day gig,” as she calls it, as a pharmacist in western Oklahoma, where she lives. She graduated from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, Okla. with her doctorate of pharmacy, and works full time, juggling her schedule around her rodeo work.&nbsp;O’Connell’s trick riding horse is a palomino with a white face named Big Ike. Big Ike is a movie star; O’Connell rode him as a stunt double in the movie&nbsp;Cowgirls ‘N Angels.&nbsp;Her secondary horse is a bay roan named Eight Ball who she has ridden for the past four years.&nbsp;O’Connell loves coming to Kansas Biggest Rodeo. “My first memories of Phillipsburg are as a young tike,” she said. “I know that Phillipsburg has always been one of my dad’s favorite rodeos. It’s special to get to go back.”&nbsp;Tricked Out Trick Riding, featuring the Navarre girls, will be the specialty act during each night of Kansas Biggest Rodeo August 5-7. Rodeo performances start at 8 pm nightly. Tickets are on sale online at&nbsp;<a href="https://ruthnicolaus-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/Redirect?ukey=1gq47uVjXtYdTo9Z5XSXRjEyqjlqqLe2G-bKjPdyj97Q-1551052817&amp;key=YAMMID-90144103&amp;link=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kansasbiggestrodeo.com">www.kansasbiggestrodeo.com</a>&nbsp;and start at $16 for adults and $12 for children.&nbsp;For more information, visit the website at&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>&nbsp;or call 785.543.2448.

Cowgirl trick riders, whip crackers featured at Phillipsburg rodeo 

Crude futures prices dropped six percent Monday after the OPEC-Plus crude-oil exporters reached agreement with one holdout nation, and agreed to raise production. Prices dropped nearly $5 in New York to $67.12 per barrel by lunchtime Monday. OPEC-Plus ministers agreed on Sunday to increase oil supply starting next month to cool the highest prices in more than two years. That came after an agreement that allowed the United Arab Emirates to raise its production quota. From August to the end of the year, the entire group will reintroduce to the marketplace another two million barrels per day, or about 400,000 barrels per day each month. The cartel hopes to fully phase out its self-imposed production cuts by around September 2022. Kansas crude prices dropped by more than two dollars last week. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts this week at $62 per barrel. That's down nearly four dollars from the first of the month, but more than $23 higher than at the first of the year. High crude prices coupled with high gasoline demand pushed average gasoline prices up to $3.17 per gallon nationwide Monday, an increase of 13 cents per gallon since Memorial Day Weekend. Gasoline demand jumped nearly one million barrels per day to the highest level ever reported by the EIA. Most gas stations in Hays and Great Bend were offering a gallon of regular for $2.94 a gallon, but last week we spotted one station over three dollars, the first we've seen in about seven years.&nbsp; The Rig Count in Kansas was down slightly last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports seven active rigs in eastern Kansas, which is down one from last week. The count west of Wichita was unchanged at 22 active drilling rigs. Operators are preparing to spud new wells in Barton and Stafford counties. Baker Hughes reports 484 active rigs across the US. The total marked an increase of two oil rigs and three seeking natural gas. Oklahoma was up two, and Texas was down two. The benchmark Nymex futures contract settled Thursday at $71.65 [["seventy-one sixty-five"]] per barrel after nearly topping $73 earlier in the day. By Friday afternoon prices were once again over $72. Light sweet crude for August was up 37 cents to $72.02 [["seventy-two oh two"]] per barrel. London Brent gained 28 cents to $73.75 [["seventy-three seventy-five"]] per barrel. Kansas regulators okayed 20 new drilling permits last week, 535 so far this year. There are five new permits east of Wichita and 15 in Western Kansas, including one each in Barton, Russell and Stafford counties.&nbsp; Operators across the state completed 22 new wells last week, for a year-to-date total of 415 new well completions. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says there were seven in eastern Kansas and 15 west of Wichita, including one newly-completed well in Barton County and one in Russell County. The government reported declining US crude-oil inventories for an eighth consecutive week. The Energy Information Administration says domestic stockpiles dropped by nearly eight million barrels last week and are currently about eight percent below the five-year average for this time of year. EIA said US crude-oil imports rose by 347,000 barrels per day last week, but the four-week average remains slightly lower than the same time period last year. US crude production increased by 96,000 barrels per day last week to just over 11.4 million barrels per day.&nbsp; Oil-by-rail shipments dropped last week. The Association of American Railroads reported 9,775 tankers hauling petroleum and petroleum products, down 252 tankers from the week before and three percent lower than the same week a year ago. Despite huge reductions during the pandemic, the U.S. continued to lead the world in total petroleum and natural-gas production last year. The Energy Information Administration reports more fossil fuel was produced here than in any other country, continuing a trend that began in 2014. The world's largest producers all saw massive drops in production last year. US output was down by about 3 percent from the year before. Drilling permits on federal lands are on pace this year to reach their highest levels in nearly 15 years. That comes despite efforts by the Biden Administration to slow down drilling on public lands. According to analysis from the Association Press, the government approved about 2,500 permits to drill on public and tribal lands during the first six months of the year. That includes more than 2,100 approvals since President Biden took office January 20. Some analysts are crediting the spike to industry and Republican resistance to the administration's efforts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>BY JOHN P. TRETBARCrude futures prices dropped six percent Monday after the OPEC-Plus crude-oil exporters reached agreement with one holdout nation, and agreed to raise production. Prices dropped nearly $5 in New York to $67.12 per barrel by lunchtime Monday. OPEC-Plus ministers agreed on Sunday to increase oil supply starting next month to cool the highest prices in more than two years. That came after an agreement that allowed the United Arab Emirates to raise its production quota. From August to the end of the year, the entire group will reintroduce to the marketplace another two million barrels per day, or about 400,000 barrels per day each month. The cartel hopes to fully phase out its self-imposed production cuts by around September 2022. Kansas crude prices dropped by more than two dollars last week. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts this week at $62 per barrel. That's down nearly four dollars from the first of the month, but more than $23 higher than at the first of the year. High crude prices coupled with high gasoline demand pushed average gasoline prices up to $3.17 per gallon nationwide Monday, an increase of 13 cents per gallon since Memorial Day Weekend. Gasoline demand jumped nearly one million barrels per day to the highest level ever reported by the EIA. Most gas stations in Hays and Great Bend were offering a gallon of regular for $2.94 a gallon, but last week we spotted one station over three dollars, the first we've seen in about seven years.&nbsp; The Rig Count in Kansas was down slightly last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports seven active rigs in eastern Kansas, which is down one from last week. The count west of Wichita was unchanged at 22 active drilling rigs. Operators are preparing to spud new wells in Barton and Stafford counties. Baker Hughes reports 484 active rigs across the US. The total marked an increase of two oil rigs and three seeking natural gas. Oklahoma was up two, and Texas was down two. The benchmark Nymex futures contract settled Thursday at $71.65 [["seventy-one sixty-five"]] per barrel after nearly topping $73 earlier in the day. By Friday afternoon prices were once again over $72. Light sweet crude for August was up 37 cents to $72.02 [["seventy-two oh two"]] per barrel. London Brent gained 28 cents to $73.75 [["seventy-three seventy-five"]] per barrel. Kansas regulators okayed 20 new drilling permits last week, 535 so far this year. There are five new permits east of Wichita and 15 in Western Kansas, including one each in Barton, Russell and Stafford counties.&nbsp; Operators across the state completed 22 new wells last week, for a year-to-date total of 415 new well completions. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says there were seven in eastern Kansas and 15 west of Wichita, including one newly-completed well in Barton County and one in Russell County. The government reported declining US crude-oil inventories for an eighth consecutive week. The Energy Information Administration says domestic stockpiles dropped by nearly eight million barrels last week and are currently about eight percent below the five-year average for this time of year. EIA said US crude-oil imports rose by 347,000 barrels per day last week, but the four-week average remains slightly lower than the same time period last year. US crude production increased by 96,000 barrels per day last week to just over 11.4 million barrels per day.&nbsp; Oil-by-rail shipments dropped last week. The Association of American Railroads reported 9,775 tankers hauling petroleum and petroleum products, down 252 tankers from the week before and three percent lower than the same week a year ago. Despite huge reductions during the pandemic, the U.S. continued to lead the world in total petroleum and natural-gas production last year. The Energy Information Administration reports more fossil fuel was produced here than in any other country, continuing a trend that began in 2014. The world's largest producers all saw massive drops in production last year. US output was down by about 3 percent from the year before. Drilling permits on federal lands are on pace this year to reach their highest levels in nearly 15 years. That comes despite efforts by the Biden Administration to slow down drilling on public lands. According to analysis from the Association Press, the government approved about 2,500 permits to drill on public and tribal lands during the first six months of the year. That includes more than 2,100 approvals since President Biden took office January 20. Some analysts are crediting the spike to industry and Republican resistance to the administration's efforts.

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