Three-day weather outlook

Hays Young Professionals will present a free community street dance this weekend. 

The event is open to the public, and all ages are welcome. Anthony and The Anamals will be playing in the Downtown Pavilion, 10th and Main, at 7:30 p.m. Friday. 

Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a free concert in beautiful downtown Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623879651416.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Young Professionals will present a free community street dance this weekend. The event is open to the public, and all ages are welcome. Anthony and The Anamals will be playing in the Downtown Pavilion, 10th and Main, at 7:30 p.m. Friday. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a free concert in beautiful downtown Hays.— Submitted

Community street dance set for Friday in downtown Hays

It is a familiar face with a new name now at the helm of the Hays High softball program. Wednesday afternoon, Athletic Director Lance Krannawitter introduced Abby Gillan as the new head softball coach. Gillan, formally Maska, was head coach from 2009 through 2015.&nbsp;

Her first tenure included a record of 101-54, the 2011 Western Athletic Conference Title, three 5A state softball tournament appearances and a fourth place state finish in 2011.

Gillan said she has no preconceived notions about the players who will join the program in 2022 as it has been seven years between head coaching stints. Her advice for potential players between now and next season? Hit the weight room. Gillan sees the weight room as the best way to prevent injuries and improve athleticism.&nbsp;

Twenty-six players were in attendance Wednesday with several others missing due to work and other prior commitments. Any player that missed the meeting or has an interest in softball is encouraged to check out the program. Her expectations are simple. Work hard. Integrity. Honor.

Gillan played softball for Hays High and Fort Hays State University. She was an assistant coach at Salina South for her first coaching experience before returning to Hays High. She taught sociology, American history and AP U.S. government this past school year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623877313271.jpeg" alt="Abby Gillan" />
 <figcaption>Abby Gillan</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostIt is a familiar face with a new name now at the helm of the Hays High softball program. Wednesday afternoon, Athletic Director Lance Krannawitter introduced Abby Gillan as the new head softball coach. Gillan, formally Maska, was head coach from 2009 through 2015.&nbsp;Her first tenure included a record of 101-54, the 2011 Western Athletic Conference Title, three 5A state softball tournament appearances and a fourth place state finish in 2011.Gillan said she has no preconceived notions about the players who will join the program in 2022 as it has been seven years between head coaching stints. Her advice for potential players between now and next season? Hit the weight room. Gillan sees the weight room as the best way to prevent injuries and improve athleticism.&nbsp;Coach Abby Gillan<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1069981618&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/abby-gillan" title="Abby Gillan" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Abby Gillan</a></div></div>Twenty-six players were in attendance Wednesday with several others missing due to work and other prior commitments. Any player that missed the meeting or has an interest in softball is encouraged to check out the program. Her expectations are simple. Work hard. Integrity. Honor.Gillan played softball for Hays High and Fort Hays State University. She was an assistant coach at Salina South for her first coaching experience before returning to Hays High. She taught sociology, American history and AP U.S. government this past school year.

Hays High introduces new softball coach

ROOKS COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Wednesday in Rooks County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Mazda pickup driven by Braden Higdon, 23, Stockton,&nbsp; was eastbound on U.S. 24 nine miles east of Stockton.&nbsp;

The pickup rear-ended a 2013 Ford pickup driven by Staci Ketelsen, 41, Stockton, who had&nbsp;started to slow down to turn right into her driveway. 

After the crash, the Mazda&nbsp; continued eastbound, entered the north ditch and caught fire.

Higdon was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Plumer Overlease Funeral Home. EMS transported Ketelsen to the hospital in Plainville. The KHP did not have complete seat belt information due to the fire.

ROOKS COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Wednesday in Rooks County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Mazda pickup driven by Braden Higdon, 23, Stockton,&nbsp; was eastbound on U.S. 24 nine miles east of Stockton.&nbsp;The pickup rear-ended a 2013 Ford pickup driven by Staci Ketelsen, 41, Stockton, who had&nbsp;started to slow down to turn right into her driveway. After the crash, the Mazda&nbsp; continued eastbound, entered the north ditch and caught fire.Higdon was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Plumer Overlease Funeral Home. EMS transported Ketelsen to the hospital in Plainville. The KHP did not have complete seat belt information due to the fire.

Rooks County man dies in rear-end pickup crash, fire

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported just one new COVID-19 case in Ellis County had been identified in the past week.

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

Since reporting began, there have been 3,760 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623864581718.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported just one new COVID-19 case in Ellis County had been identified in the past week.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Since reporting began, there have been 3,760 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 73 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: Just one new virus case in Ellis Co. in past week

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Terri Braun was helping a family member move six years ago when a freak accident changed her life forever.&nbsp;

A Kansas storm was brewing on the horizon. The wind was picking up. As Braun, 47, walked down the sidewalk, a gust of wind caught a child's portable basketball goal. It slammed into her, knocked her unconscious, and caused permanent brain damage.

Out of deep darkness came hope and three books. The latest, "No More Patches," was released June 1.

The processing system in Braun's brain and her vestibular system, which controls spatial awareness, was damaged.

"I couldn't do daily living skills," she said. "It turned my life upside down. If it was a step forward or a step backward, it wouldn't have hit me. For whatever reason, that is what it was meant to be.&nbsp;

"I can say that accident has made my life better because I have learned to find happiness in the world around me and the little things instead of all the stress. You learn your circumstances are not as bad as they could be, you can rely on Him and He is always there."

Initially, after Braun's accident, she was on brain rest for 30 days. She slept 18 hours a day. She laid in a dark room alone to reduce outside stimulations so her brain could rest and heal.

"Most people don't like to be in their own head for an hour, and I had to be in my own head for 30 days," she said.

At the beginning of her 30 days of brain rest, her thoughts were positive. However, as time ticked by and she lay alone in the dark room, trapped with her thoughts, her thoughts turned dark.

"I began to feel very hopeless and very worthless," she said. "I watched myself spiral down. I became very depressed. I started to have panic attacks because I couldn't leave my house and because of the stimulation around me."

Her brain couldn't filter out stimulus. All sounds seemed to be at the same volume, and her brain gave them the same attention.&nbsp;

"The sound of the air conditioner was the same level as you because my brain didn't know what to attend to, so it attended to everything. I became very overstimulated," she said.

She couldn't go out in public. She eventually took short trips to restaurants with her family but couldn't stay long because of the noise.

Even getting dressed was exhausting and required her to sleep after.

"It's amazing how something as simple as cutting a cucumber — you don't realize how much concentration and cognitive ability [it takes] until you don't have it," she said.

Asking and accepting help was very difficult for Braun. She was a crisis manager at High Plains Mental Health Center before her accident and was accustomed to helping other people through crises and tragedy.

She couldn't be the mom she wanted to her two teenage sons.

"I could drive them to get a Snoball," she said. "I couldn't go to their events — to their track meets and stuff because it was too much at the time."

She said the most challenging thing she ever had to do was ask for help.

"It makes you feel stupid, for lack of a better word," she said. "You feel like you aren't worth anything because you're not the same person. The new Terri was not the same as the old Terri, and it still isn't.

"I have accepted there is a lot of good that can still come out of the new Terri that couldn't out of the old."

Braun is a devote Catholic, but she spiraled down until she said she hated God.&nbsp;

"I didn't really feel any love," she said, "because who could love a person who was so broken? ..."

"I said, 'Something has got to change because if I don't do something different, I'm going to lose myself. I'm going to lose my family. I'm going to lose my friends. I said, 'All right God, let's do this,'" she said.

"I started doing the little things and random acts of kindness," she said. "It was something that I could do that didn't take a lot of effort, but it was something I felt so proud of. I made that person's day instead of sitting at home feeling sorry for myself."

She couldn't read because of her head injury, but she downloaded daily Bible readings and began listening and spending time with Him.

She found hope and forgiveness in the quiet. He was the light in the darkness.

Her first book came from spoken journal entries during this time.

Her first book was "Preparing&nbsp; your Heart for Christmas," which is a collection of Advent reflections.

The next book was "Good Morning Sunshine," which is inspirational reflections on 40 Bible verses to help heal and provide hope and strength.

"No More Patches" is about Braun's spiritual journey during her recovery.

It was published by Trilogy Christian Publishing, which is a subsidiary of TBN.

"It is about how we all have struggles in life," she said. "We struggle, and we wonder why, but if we open our heart to God, he can help us find ourselves. 

"He can help us find our purpose, and He can help us find peace no matter what circumstances are out there or what we are struggling with."

It is for anyone struggling with anything in life, wondering why or feeling self-pity or feeling sorry for themselves, she said.

"It's an opportunity to grow and that is what this book is telling you. Your struggles are an opportunity to grow. It's an opportunity to better yourself," she said.

Braun has returned to work at the mental health center, working part-time as a recovery worker. She said her journey to darkness and back has made her more empathetic toward her clients.

"I know what they've been through," she said. "I know what it feels like to feel worthless and helpless, and there's no way out, and your world is dark."

She also still volunteers part-time at her church, and she can drive short distances.

Braun is still participating in therapies to recover from her injury. She still has to rest in the afternoon when she most struggles with cognition and complications from her injury. She is continuing to work on more books. She wishes her books offer hope to others.

The title of her current book came from a song titled "Worn" by Tenth Avenue North. The song talks about how we all become worn by life's struggles.

"I'm worn, and I put on patches to get through the day. I start breaking a little bit more and cracking a little bit more, so I put on more patches," she said. "With God, you don't get worn from the outside world. You don't have to have any more patches.

"The scars are going to be there because those are your triumphs over your struggles, but with Him, you don't have all those patches. ... As Christians, we are supposed to be that beacon of light for those people whose patches are worn."

"No More Patches" can be purchased through Amazon or any major book retailer.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623786733728.jpeg" alt="Hays author Terri Braun's latest book, "No More Patches," was just released by&nbsp;Trilogy Christian Publishing. " />
 <figcaption>Hays author Terri Braun's latest book, "No More Patches," was just released by&nbsp;Trilogy Christian Publishing. </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTerri Braun was helping a family member move six years ago when a freak accident changed her life forever.&nbsp;A Kansas storm was brewing on the horizon. The wind was picking up. As Braun, 47, walked down the sidewalk, a gust of wind caught a child's portable basketball goal. It slammed into her, knocked her unconscious, and caused permanent brain damage.Out of deep darkness came hope and three books. The latest, "No More Patches," was released June 1.The processing system in Braun's brain and her vestibular system, which controls spatial awareness, was damaged."I couldn't do daily living skills," she said. "It turned my life upside down. If it was a step forward or a step backward, it wouldn't have hit me. For whatever reason, that is what it was meant to be.&nbsp;"I can say that accident has made my life better because I have learned to find happiness in the world around me and the little things instead of all the stress. You learn your circumstances are not as bad as they could be, you can rely on Him and He is always there."Initially, after Braun's accident, she was on brain rest for 30 days. She slept 18 hours a day. She laid in a dark room alone to reduce outside stimulations so her brain could rest and heal."Most people don't like to be in their own head for an hour, and I had to be in my own head for 30 days," she said.At the beginning of her 30 days of brain rest, her thoughts were positive. However, as time ticked by and she lay alone in the dark room, trapped with her thoughts, her thoughts turned dark."I began to feel very hopeless and very worthless," she said. "I watched myself spiral down. I became very depressed. I started to have panic attacks because I couldn't leave my house and because of the stimulation around me."Her brain couldn't filter out stimulus. All sounds seemed to be at the same volume, and her brain gave them the same attention.&nbsp;"The sound of the air conditioner was the same level as you because my brain didn't know what to attend to, so it attended to everything. I became very overstimulated," she said.She couldn't go out in public. She eventually took short trips to restaurants with her family but couldn't stay long because of the noise.Even getting dressed was exhausting and required her to sleep after."It's amazing how something as simple as cutting a cucumber — you don't realize how much concentration and cognitive ability [it takes] until you don't have it," she said.Asking and accepting help was very difficult for Braun. She was a crisis manager at High Plains Mental Health Center before her accident and was accustomed to helping other people through crises and tragedy.She couldn't be the mom she wanted to her two teenage sons."I could drive them to get a Snoball," she said. "I couldn't go to their events — to their track meets and stuff because it was too much at the time."She said the most challenging thing she ever had to do was ask for help."It makes you feel stupid, for lack of a better word," she said. "You feel like you aren't worth anything because you're not the same person. The new Terri was not the same as the old Terri, and it still isn't."I have accepted there is a lot of good that can still come out of the new Terri that couldn't out of the old."Braun is a devote Catholic, but she spiraled down until she said she hated God.&nbsp;"I didn't really feel any love," she said, "because who could love a person who was so broken? ...""I said, 'Something has got to change because if I don't do something different, I'm going to lose myself. I'm going to lose my family. I'm going to lose my friends. I said, 'All right God, let's do this,'" she said.She took small steps at first."I started doing the little things and random acts of kindness," she said. "It was something that I could do that didn't take a lot of effort, but it was something I felt so proud of. I made that person's day instead of sitting at home feeling sorry for myself."She couldn't read because of her head injury, but she downloaded daily Bible readings and began listening and spending time with Him.She found hope and forgiveness in the quiet. He was the light in the darkness.She found love again in God.Her first book came from spoken journal entries during this time.Her first book was "Preparing&nbsp; your Heart for Christmas," which is a collection of Advent reflections.The next book was "Good Morning Sunshine," which is inspirational reflections on 40 Bible verses to help heal and provide hope and strength."No More Patches" is about Braun's spiritual journey during her recovery.It was published by Trilogy Christian Publishing, which is a subsidiary of TBN."It is about how we all have struggles in life," she said. "We struggle, and we wonder why, but if we open our heart to God, he can help us find ourselves. "He can help us find our purpose, and He can help us find peace no matter what circumstances are out there or what we are struggling with."It is for anyone struggling with anything in life, wondering why or feeling self-pity or feeling sorry for themselves, she said."It's an opportunity to grow and that is what this book is telling you. Your struggles are an opportunity to grow. It's an opportunity to better yourself," she said.Braun has returned to work at the mental health center, working part-time as a recovery worker. She said her journey to darkness and back has made her more empathetic toward her clients."I know what they've been through," she said. "I know what it feels like to feel worthless and helpless, and there's no way out, and your world is dark."She also still volunteers part-time at her church, and she can drive short distances.Braun is still participating in therapies to recover from her injury. She still has to rest in the afternoon when she most struggles with cognition and complications from her injury. She is continuing to work on more books. She wishes her books offer hope to others.The title of her current book came from a song titled "Worn" by Tenth Avenue North. The song talks about how we all become worn by life's struggles."I'm worn, and I put on patches to get through the day. I start breaking a little bit more and cracking a little bit more, so I put on more patches," she said. "With God, you don't get worn from the outside world. You don't have to have any more patches."The scars are going to be there because those are your triumphs over your struggles, but with Him, you don't have all those patches. ... As Christians, we are supposed to be that beacon of light for those people whose patches are worn.""No More Patches" can be purchased through Amazon or any major book retailer.&nbsp;

Hays author shares journey of recovery from brain injury in 'No More Patches'

<a>U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the U.S. District Court of Kansas will&nbsp;</a>welcome 125 new U.S. citizens, including a Phillips County resident, Friday&nbsp;at Wichita State University.&nbsp;U.S. Bankruptcy&nbsp;Judge Mitchell Herrer&nbsp;will preside, and&nbsp;a clerk of the court will administer the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.uscis.gov/us-citizenship/naturalization-test/naturalization-oath-allegiance-united-states-america" target="_blank">Oath of Allegiance</a>.

<a></a><a>The citizenship candidates originate from 29 countries: Benin, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burma, Canada, China, Congo (Kinshasa), Cuba, El Salvador, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, India, Iran, Jamaica, Jerusalem, Kenya, Laos, Mexico,&nbsp;Nepal, Nigeria, Philippines, Poland, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.</a>

The citizenship candidates live in Alstead, Andover, Coffeyville, Copeland, Derby,&nbsp;Dodge City, Garden City, Haysville, Holcomb, Hugoton, Hutchinson, Independence,&nbsp; Johnson, Kirwin,&nbsp; Liberal, Meade, Montezuma, Newton, Peck, Salina, Wichita and Winfield.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623709965146.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>USCIS<a>U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the U.S. District Court of Kansas will&nbsp;</a>welcome 125 new U.S. citizens, including a Phillips County resident, Friday&nbsp;at Wichita State University.&nbsp;U.S. Bankruptcy&nbsp;Judge Mitchell Herrer&nbsp;will preside, and&nbsp;a clerk of the court will administer the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.uscis.gov/us-citizenship/naturalization-test/naturalization-oath-allegiance-united-states-america" target="_blank">Oath of Allegiance</a>.<a></a><a>The citizenship candidates originate from 29 countries: Benin, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burma, Canada, China, Congo (Kinshasa), Cuba, El Salvador, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, India, Iran, Jamaica, Jerusalem, Kenya, Laos, Mexico,&nbsp;Nepal, Nigeria, Philippines, Poland, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.</a>The citizenship candidates live in Alstead, Andover, Coffeyville, Copeland, Derby,&nbsp;Dodge City, Garden City, Haysville, Holcomb, Hugoton, Hutchinson, Independence,&nbsp; Johnson, Kirwin,&nbsp; Liberal, Meade, Montezuma, Newton, Peck, Salina, Wichita and Winfield.

Phillips Co. resident among those to become new naturalized U.S. citizens 

TOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court appointed Judge Jennifer Jones to an unexpired term on the Municipal Court Judges Education Committee.

She is municipal judge for the city of Wichita and will serve until June 30, 2022. She succeeds Judge Ted Griffith, municipal judge for the city of Wichita.

The court reappointed Judge Jason Maxwell, municipal judge for the city of Liberal, and Judge Nancy Muck, municipal judge for the city of Osborne. Their terms begin July 1 and end June 30, 2024.

The committee recommends and organizes education and training programs for municipal judges and certifies municipal judges who are not lawyers.

Members of the committee include municipal judges, a representative of the Office of Judicial Administration, the president and past president of the Kansas Municipal Judges Association, and a Supreme Court justice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592516692814.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OJATOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court appointed Judge Jennifer Jones to an unexpired term on the Municipal Court Judges Education Committee.She is municipal judge for the city of Wichita and will serve until June 30, 2022. She succeeds Judge Ted Griffith, municipal judge for the city of Wichita.The court reappointed Judge Jason Maxwell, municipal judge for the city of Liberal, and Judge Nancy Muck, municipal judge for the city of Osborne. Their terms begin July 1 and end June 30, 2024.The committee recommends and organizes education and training programs for municipal judges and certifies municipal judges who are not lawyers.Members of the committee include municipal judges, a representative of the Office of Judicial Administration, the president and past president of the Kansas Municipal Judges Association, and a Supreme Court justice.Other members are:<ul>
 <li>Judge Steve Baccus, municipal judge for the city of Minneapolis; </li><li>Judge Katherine McElhinney, municipal judge for the city of Olathe; </li><li>Judge Randall Pankratz, municipal judge for the cities of Burns, Halstead, Hesston, and Marion; </li><li>Judge Karen Torline, municipal judge for the cities of Edgerton, Prairie Village, Roeland Park, and Shawnee; and </li><li>Judge Scott Wright, municipal judge for the cities of Beloit and Mankato.</li>
 </ul>

Osborne municipal judge appointed to education committee

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher “It is a truth universally accepted that a farmer in want of good conversation must remark on the weather.” For anyone who is not a fan of Jane Austen, I should explain that the previous statement is a bit of a play on the opening of her famous novel “Pride &amp; Prejudice.” The statement is true. Good conversation for farmers must include remarks about precipitation, heat, wind or the lack of any of these things. It will touch on their opinions about the past, present and future weather patterns. They are delighted to talk to someone from outside the county to fill their curiosity about weather in other places. In the case of severe weather, they have a deep need to be informed about the effects of the storm. Austen’s opening line, like my altered version, also had an air of mockery of others in society. It is easy to dismiss a farmer’s appreciation for weather as a necessity for not having anything else to say. I am a little chagrined to admit that I used to be a person who thought that way. In my early adulthood, at a time when it is easy to fall into the trap of thinking you’re superior to older generations, I held a particular distain for talking about the weather. I thought myself so interesting that I could conduct a conversation without ever having to fall back on weather as a topic. Over the last decade, as I have matured and lived more of life, I have come to realize just how important it is to talk about the weather. The weather is a universally acceptable topic; a failproof way to start conversation, fill a lull or even a way to break the tension of awkward situations. This universal language is a way to welcome and extend community to anyone you cross paths with. There is little chance of offending, excluding or burning a bridge while talking about the weather. Talking about the weather is a farmer’s way of extending a hand of friendship. Weather conversation is also entertaining in the same way as someone’s fish story. You’ve heard of raining cats and dog, a bit of a frog strangler or gulley-washer, egg-frying or sweltering hot, colder than a penguin’s bottom or as dry as a dust bowl. I am sure you have had a dozen saying pop into your head just reading this. Good weather anecdotes and the colorful language used to describe weather can be shared and retold all the way across the county, state and country. Sharing the weather is one way farmers tell their story. Most importantly, the weather is a farmer’s biggest threat. Farmers have spent generations improving techniques, tools and inputs to increase their crop yields. They have found ways to engineer plants to grow with less water and some have irrigation. However, they are almost all still at the mercy of weather. The amount of heat or water brought determines if their crop will grow. Severe weather events have the ability to rob them of an entire year’s work in a matter of minutes. Farmers talk about the weather because it is constantly on their mind. This week as you start to hear phrases like, “Hot enough for you lately?” or “It is gonna be a scorcher.” I hope you can learn the lesson that my young self was too naive to catch — talking about the weather is so much more than small talk. It is a unique, universal language that has the ability to convey friendship, entertainment and people’s dreams in a brief exchange. And that is exactly the kind of conversation we need more of in our world.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher “It is a truth universally accepted that a farmer in want of good conversation must remark on the weather.” For anyone who is not a fan of Jane Austen, I should explain that the previous statement is a bit of a play on the opening of her famous novel “Pride &amp; Prejudice.” The statement is true. Good conversation for farmers must include remarks about precipitation, heat, wind or the lack of any of these things. It will touch on their opinions about the past, present and future weather patterns. They are delighted to talk to someone from outside the county to fill their curiosity about weather in other places. In the case of severe weather, they have a deep need to be informed about the effects of the storm. Austen’s opening line, like my altered version, also had an air of mockery of others in society. It is easy to dismiss a farmer’s appreciation for weather as a necessity for not having anything else to say. I am a little chagrined to admit that I used to be a person who thought that way. In my early adulthood, at a time when it is easy to fall into the trap of thinking you’re superior to older generations, I held a particular distain for talking about the weather. I thought myself so interesting that I could conduct a conversation without ever having to fall back on weather as a topic. Over the last decade, as I have matured and lived more of life, I have come to realize just how important it is to talk about the weather. The weather is a universally acceptable topic; a failproof way to start conversation, fill a lull or even a way to break the tension of awkward situations. This universal language is a way to welcome and extend community to anyone you cross paths with. There is little chance of offending, excluding or burning a bridge while talking about the weather. Talking about the weather is a farmer’s way of extending a hand of friendship. Weather conversation is also entertaining in the same way as someone’s fish story. You’ve heard of raining cats and dog, a bit of a frog strangler or gulley-washer, egg-frying or sweltering hot, colder than a penguin’s bottom or as dry as a dust bowl. I am sure you have had a dozen saying pop into your head just reading this. Good weather anecdotes and the colorful language used to describe weather can be shared and retold all the way across the county, state and country. Sharing the weather is one way farmers tell their story. Most importantly, the weather is a farmer’s biggest threat. Farmers have spent generations improving techniques, tools and inputs to increase their crop yields. They have found ways to engineer plants to grow with less water and some have irrigation. However, they are almost all still at the mercy of weather. The amount of heat or water brought determines if their crop will grow. Severe weather events have the ability to rob them of an entire year’s work in a matter of minutes. Farmers talk about the weather because it is constantly on their mind. This week as you start to hear phrases like, “Hot enough for you lately?” or “It is gonna be a scorcher.” I hope you can learn the lesson that my young self was too naive to catch — talking about the weather is so much more than small talk. It is a unique, universal language that has the ability to convey friendship, entertainment and people’s dreams in a brief exchange. And that is exactly the kind of conversation we need more of in our world."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: Talking about weather

The Fort Hays State University Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI) is offering free summer activities for Tuesday, June 22 through June 24 at 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Location:&nbsp;OUTSIDE&nbsp;Forsyth Library FHSU,&nbsp;502 S. Campus Drive, Hays, KS 67601

———————— Come and Go event ————————

You can attend any or all activities.&nbsp; No registration needed.&nbsp;Free and open to the public.&nbsp;All ages welcome and children under 10 years must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Sponsored by Science and Mathematics Education Institute <a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/smei" target="_blank">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a>.

For questions please contact: Ann Noble at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:amnoble@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">amnoble@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4559

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623709286199.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Fort Hays State University Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI) is offering free summer activities for Tuesday, June 22 through June 24 at 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.Location:&nbsp;OUTSIDE&nbsp;Forsyth Library FHSU,&nbsp;502 S. Campus Drive, Hays, KS 67601———————— Come and Go event ————————You can attend any or all activities.&nbsp; No registration needed.&nbsp;Free and open to the public.&nbsp;All ages welcome and children under 10 years must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Sponsored by Science and Mathematics Education Institute <a href="http://www.fhsu.edu/smei" target="_blank">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a>.For questions please contact: Ann Noble at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:amnoble@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">amnoble@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4559

Free Maker Van science activities by FHSU SMEI June 22-24

Are you turning 65 soon? Learn about signing up for Medicare from the comfort of your home or office. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of Medicare and avoid late enrollment penalties. Perhaps you are becoming eligible for Medicare because of a disability? This event is for you, too.&nbsp;

The State Health Insurance Assistance Programs is providing local, trusted, and unbiased Medicare help in safe and socially distanced ways. That is why Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging is partnering with the&nbsp;State Health Insurance Assistance Program National Technical Assistance Center from 2 to 6 p.m. June 23, 2021 at the Welcome to Medicare Virtual Fair.

Attend for any length of time. Visit <a href="http://www.shiphelp.org">www.shiphelp.org</a> for more details, to see the agenda, and to register. You can also find a link to this site at <a href="http://www.nwkaaa.com">www.nwkaaa.com</a>. You must register to attend.

This event is government funded, and there is no cost to attend.

You can attend part or all of this event. There will be general sessions with expert presenters on Medicare eligibility, enrollment, costs and coverage options.

In the general sessions, the event will offer subtitles in English and a live transcript in Spanish. You can visit state-specific virtual exhibits at any time during this event.

Chat with organizers about how our program can help you with your individual Medicare enrollment questions. Join the event from your computer or mobile device anytime between 2 and 6 p.m.

Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging&nbsp;is part of the national SHIP network, funded by the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling.

In Kansas&nbsp;State Health Insurance Assistance Program goes by SHICK. Regardless of the name, the State Health Insurance Assistance Programs share a national mission: to empower, educate and assist Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers through objective outreach, counseling and training to make informed health insurance decisions that optimize access to care and benefits.

State Health Insurance Assistance Program&nbsp;experts will explain who is eligible for Medicare and when, how to sign up for Medicare, and what to do if you are still working when you are eligible for Medicare. They will also discuss Medicare costs, especially the importance of avoiding late enrollment penalties. You will learn how to navigate your Medicare coverage options and how Medicare works with other insurances, such as employer insurance, Medigap supplemental insurance, and retiree insurance.&nbsp;

At any time, you can visit the SHICK exhibit where organizers can help you think about what to consider when making your individual Medicare enrollment decisions or when helping a friend or loved one make their Medicare enrollment decisions. You can also watch short, pre-recorded videos on aspects of Medicare or download educational materials.&nbsp;

The event will conclude with national presenters discussing the federal government’s role in Medicare, avoiding Medicare fraud, and the available Medicare assistance programs that help with Medicare costs.&nbsp;

For more information contact Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging, Hays, KS 67601 at 785-628-8204 or <a href="http://www.nwkaaa.com">www.nwkaaa.com</a>.

About&nbsp;Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas

The national&nbsp;State Health Insurance Assistance Program mission is to empower, educate and assist Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers through objective outreach, counseling, and training to make informed health insurance decisions that optimize access to care and benefits. Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas is a free program offering Kansans an opportunity to talk with trained, community volunteers and get answers to questions about Medicare and other insurance issues.

The program provides you with many resources that will help you with your questions about Medicare. Our counselors receive training on Medicare, Medicare Supplement Insurance, Long-Term Care and other health insurance subjects that concern older Kansans.

Program counselors do not work for any insurance company. The goal is to educate and assist the public to make informed decisions on what's best for them.

SubmittedAre you turning 65 soon? Learn about signing up for Medicare from the comfort of your home or office. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of Medicare and avoid late enrollment penalties. Perhaps you are becoming eligible for Medicare because of a disability? This event is for you, too.&nbsp;The State Health Insurance Assistance Programs is providing local, trusted, and unbiased Medicare help in safe and socially distanced ways. That is why Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging is partnering with the&nbsp;State Health Insurance Assistance Program National Technical Assistance Center from 2 to 6 p.m. June 23, 2021 at the Welcome to Medicare Virtual Fair.Attend for any length of time. Visit <a href="http://www.shiphelp.org">www.shiphelp.org</a> for more details, to see the agenda, and to register. You can also find a link to this site at <a href="http://www.nwkaaa.com">www.nwkaaa.com</a>. You must register to attend.This event is government funded, and there is no cost to attend.You can attend part or all of this event. There will be general sessions with expert presenters on Medicare eligibility, enrollment, costs and coverage options.In the general sessions, the event will offer subtitles in English and a live transcript in Spanish. You can visit state-specific virtual exhibits at any time during this event.Chat with organizers about how our program can help you with your individual Medicare enrollment questions. Join the event from your computer or mobile device anytime between 2 and 6 p.m.Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging&nbsp;is part of the national SHIP network, funded by the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Office of Healthcare Information and Counseling.In Kansas&nbsp;State Health Insurance Assistance Program goes by SHICK. Regardless of the name, the State Health Insurance Assistance Programs share a national mission: to empower, educate and assist Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers through objective outreach, counseling and training to make informed health insurance decisions that optimize access to care and benefits.State Health Insurance Assistance Program&nbsp;experts will explain who is eligible for Medicare and when, how to sign up for Medicare, and what to do if you are still working when you are eligible for Medicare. They will also discuss Medicare costs, especially the importance of avoiding late enrollment penalties. You will learn how to navigate your Medicare coverage options and how Medicare works with other insurances, such as employer insurance, Medigap supplemental insurance, and retiree insurance.&nbsp;At any time, you can visit the SHICK exhibit where organizers can help you think about what to consider when making your individual Medicare enrollment decisions or when helping a friend or loved one make their Medicare enrollment decisions. You can also watch short, pre-recorded videos on aspects of Medicare or download educational materials.&nbsp;The event will conclude with national presenters discussing the federal government’s role in Medicare, avoiding Medicare fraud, and the available Medicare assistance programs that help with Medicare costs.&nbsp;For more information contact Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging, Hays, KS 67601 at 785-628-8204 or <a href="http://www.nwkaaa.com">www.nwkaaa.com</a>.<h2>About&nbsp;Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas</h2>The national&nbsp;State Health Insurance Assistance Program mission is to empower, educate and assist Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers through objective outreach, counseling, and training to make informed health insurance decisions that optimize access to care and benefits. Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas is a free program offering Kansans an opportunity to talk with trained, community volunteers and get answers to questions about Medicare and other insurance issues.The program provides you with many resources that will help you with your questions about Medicare. Our counselors receive training on Medicare, Medicare Supplement Insurance, Long-Term Care and other health insurance subjects that concern older Kansans.Program counselors do not work for any insurance company. The goal is to educate and assist the public to make informed decisions on what's best for them.

Event seeks to answer questions for those newly eligible for Medicare

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

<div><iframe title="Latest Business Showcase Challenge wrapping up this week" 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=yd868-1065da1-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares the latest from the 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: Latest Business Showcase Challenge wrapping up this week

My name is Samuel Allen, and I am announcing my candidacy for the Hays City Commission.&nbsp;

My family have been active members of our community since my ancestors settled in Catherine in 1875. I want to continue that tradition, and be an active participant in maintaining and improving our community. I am Thomas More Prep-Marian alumnus,and am planning to attend NCK-Tech in the fall. I work at DSNWK and am an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church.&nbsp;

You may notice that I am much younger than the other candidates for city commission. While I may not have quite as much experience as others, I do have a sense of responsibility and accountability to the community we serve. I believe that we must honor our past, but sometimes we have to be willing to make changes if we are to build a better future.&nbsp;

I also was the recipient of a heart transplant in 2017. I feel it is important for voters to know that, because I have dealt with challenges that others have not faced, regardless of my age. I have worked hard to try to do my best and make a difference, despite the health struggles I have faced.&nbsp;

I am adamant about protecting our community, but, also, making sure that we are all working together to create and ensure that we realize it’s potential. Because of my age, I am blessed to be able to see each opportunity from an objective, non-partisan perspective. My loyalties will always lie with what it best for the Hays community and its residents.&nbsp;

As a part of the Hays City Commission, I hope to work with businesses and citizens to provide appropriate, affordable housing for everyone, strive to create jobs and, hopefully, leave Hays a better place than when I started. It takes a village, and I am ready to do my part.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>My name is Samuel Allen, and I am announcing my candidacy for the Hays City Commission.&nbsp;My family have been active members of our community since my ancestors settled in Catherine in 1875. I want to continue that tradition, and be an active participant in maintaining and improving our community. I am Thomas More Prep-Marian alumnus,and am planning to attend NCK-Tech in the fall. I work at DSNWK and am an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church.&nbsp;You may notice that I am much younger than the other candidates for city commission. While I may not have quite as much experience as others, I do have a sense of responsibility and accountability to the community we serve. I believe that we must honor our past, but sometimes we have to be willing to make changes if we are to build a better future.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623691381208.jpeg" alt="Samuel Allen" />
 <figcaption>Samuel Allen</figcaption>
 </figure>I also was the recipient of a heart transplant in 2017. I feel it is important for voters to know that, because I have dealt with challenges that others have not faced, regardless of my age. I have worked hard to try to do my best and make a difference, despite the health struggles I have faced.&nbsp;I am adamant about protecting our community, but, also, making sure that we are all working together to create and ensure that we realize it’s potential. Because of my age, I am blessed to be able to see each opportunity from an objective, non-partisan perspective. My loyalties will always lie with what it best for the Hays community and its residents.&nbsp;As a part of the Hays City Commission, I hope to work with businesses and citizens to provide appropriate, affordable housing for everyone, strive to create jobs and, hopefully, leave Hays a better place than when I started. It takes a village, and I am ready to do my part.&nbsp;

LETTER: Allen announces candidacy for Hays City Commission

John Jacobs was one of the top hitters for the Hays Larks when he played for them in the late 1950s. Just imagine what the natural left-handed swinger could have done if he hadn’t hit right-handed.

	While playing ball in the streets as a kid with his friends, his teammates pressured Jacobs to swing from the right side.

	“The guys in the neighborhood made me a right-handed hitter,” Jacobs said. “They didn’t have enough players to cover right field and didn’t want a left-handed batter.”

	St. Joseph’s Military Academy in Hays didn’t have a baseball team when Jacobs was in high school, but he did play American Legion ball in the summer. In the summer of 1955, after Jacobs’ junior year, he played a little first base for the Larks. He was the team’s full-time first baseman for the next three years, batting .355 in 1956, .358 in 1957 and .421 in 1958.

	Jacobs, who graduated from high school in 1956, went to Arizona State for college. He walked on that first semester and promptly earned a baseball scholarship. He played first base for the Sun Devils all four years before signing with the San Francisco Giants.

	Late in his senior year at Arizona State, Jacobs was beaned by a pitch just below his left eye, suffering four fractures in his cheek bone. Although he was nervous at the plate, Jacobs still played first base for a year in the minors before switching to pitching the next season.

	“Every time they would throw a ball around my face, I wouldn’t move,” Jacobs said. “As a hitter, you just love to bat. I became gun shy.

	“To hit, you’ve got to be aggressive,” he added. “Once you lose the aggressiveness, it’s not going to work out.”

	Jacobs came back to play that second year with the Giants organization so he could get the second half of his signing bonus. After six weeks, he gave up pro ball and returned to Hays, where he played one final season for the Larks.

To protect his eye, Jacobs switched from batting right-handed to his more natural left-handed swing that summer of 1961, and hit .455, second-best in Larks history. The only Lark with a better season at the plate was Vic Higgins, who batted .458 in 1957.

	The thought has crossed Jacobs’ mind of what might have happened if those neighborhood kids hadn’t made him switch sides at the plate.

	“I did wonder about that many times,” Jacobs said. “You face a lot of right-handed pitchers, and since I wasn’t a speedy person I was a couple steps closer to first base.”

	Jacobs said he enjoyed playing for those Larks teams back in the day, and in his first full-time season he had a game for the record books. On July 31, 1956, the 18-year-old Jacobs hit a grand slam, drove in 10 runs and scored five times against Ness City, in a game played at La Crosse. The newspaper headline the next day proclaimed Jacobs had accounted for 15 runs in the 27-7 victory.

	“It was just one of those days when everything goes right,” Jacobs said.

	Back then, as is the case now, fans flocked to the games.

	“They had a huge crowd in the stands,” said Jacobs, adding fans would park cars down the foul lines to get a good view. “When I was a kid growing up, there was no television to watch. They came out to watch the Larks.”

	Competition was fierce, too, but it was friendly.

	“Catharine and Munjor, they wanted to beat the big town,” Jacobs said. “After the game, there was beer in the Catharine dugout, and they would want you to come over and drink beer with them.”

	Jacobs, 83, now lives in Tempe, Ariz. He was inducted into the Arizona State Hall of Fame in 2013. He and his wife, Joan, have one son, Jeff, who works for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Jacobs can’t make it back for the 75th anniversary weekend, but will be there in spirit.

	“Such great memories of the Larks,” Jacobs said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623680037122.jpeg" alt="Jacobs playing with the Hays Larks / Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Jacobs playing with the Hays Larks / Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedJohn Jacobs was one of the top hitters for the Hays Larks when he played for them in the late 1950s. Just imagine what the natural left-handed swinger could have done if he hadn’t hit right-handed.	While playing ball in the streets as a kid with his friends, his teammates pressured Jacobs to swing from the right side.	“The guys in the neighborhood made me a right-handed hitter,” Jacobs said. “They didn’t have enough players to cover right field and didn’t want a left-handed batter.”	St. Joseph’s Military Academy in Hays didn’t have a baseball team when Jacobs was in high school, but he did play American Legion ball in the summer. In the summer of 1955, after Jacobs’ junior year, he played a little first base for the Larks. He was the team’s full-time first baseman for the next three years, batting .355 in 1956, .358 in 1957 and .421 in 1958.	Jacobs, who graduated from high school in 1956, went to Arizona State for college. He walked on that first semester and promptly earned a baseball scholarship. He played first base for the Sun Devils all four years before signing with the San Francisco Giants.	Late in his senior year at Arizona State, Jacobs was beaned by a pitch just below his left eye, suffering four fractures in his cheek bone. Although he was nervous at the plate, Jacobs still played first base for a year in the minors before switching to pitching the next season.	“Every time they would throw a ball around my face, I wouldn’t move,” Jacobs said. “As a hitter, you just love to bat. I became gun shy.	“To hit, you’ve got to be aggressive,” he added. “Once you lose the aggressiveness, it’s not going to work out.”	Jacobs came back to play that second year with the Giants organization so he could get the second half of his signing bonus. After six weeks, he gave up pro ball and returned to Hays, where he played one final season for the Larks.To protect his eye, Jacobs switched from batting right-handed to his more natural left-handed swing that summer of 1961, and hit .455, second-best in Larks history. The only Lark with a better season at the plate was Vic Higgins, who batted .458 in 1957.	The thought has crossed Jacobs’ mind of what might have happened if those neighborhood kids hadn’t made him switch sides at the plate.	“I did wonder about that many times,” Jacobs said. “You face a lot of right-handed pitchers, and since I wasn’t a speedy person I was a couple steps closer to first base.”	Jacobs said he enjoyed playing for those Larks teams back in the day, and in his first full-time season he had a game for the record books. On July 31, 1956, the 18-year-old Jacobs hit a grand slam, drove in 10 runs and scored five times against Ness City, in a game played at La Crosse. The newspaper headline the next day proclaimed Jacobs had accounted for 15 runs in the 27-7 victory.	“It was just one of those days when everything goes right,” Jacobs said.	Back then, as is the case now, fans flocked to the games.	“They had a huge crowd in the stands,” said Jacobs, adding fans would park cars down the foul lines to get a good view. “When I was a kid growing up, there was no television to watch. They came out to watch the Larks.”	Competition was fierce, too, but it was friendly.	“Catharine and Munjor, they wanted to beat the big town,” Jacobs said. “After the game, there was beer in the Catharine dugout, and they would want you to come over and drink beer with them.”	Jacobs, 83, now lives in Tempe, Ariz. He was inducted into the Arizona State Hall of Fame in 2013. He and his wife, Joan, have one son, Jeff, who works for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Jacobs can’t make it back for the 75th anniversary weekend, but will be there in spirit.	“Such great memories of the Larks,” Jacobs said.

LARKS MEMORIES: Jacobs big hit with Larks

PHILLIPSBURG —&nbsp;For the past 30-plus years, Ron Lower and Brett Biggs have been cooped up during the Phillipsburg rodeo, shut into an eight-by-ten room and assigned to get their work done.&nbsp;

It wasn’t jail, and actually they chose to be there.&nbsp;

They were two of the ticket sellers, the first faces fans saw as they arrived at Kansas Biggest Rodeo.&nbsp;

They retired after the 2019 rodeo, but for the previous three decades, they sold tickets at the north gate, in the ticket office.

The two, longtime friends who are always cutting up and poking fun at each other, were in charge of general admission sales, not the assigned seats, which are taken care of by other volunteers. It is harder to mess up general admission tickets, Lower joked. “You can have a limited vocabulary (with the job.) We prefer to sell general admission. We know our place,” he quipped.&nbsp;

It can be hot work. If there’s no breeze, the air is muggy and still, and even a fan doesn’t help much. But too much wind is also a problem. “We hate a windy night,” Lower said, “because it blows the money all over hell.”&nbsp;

The men, along with other volunteers, arrived by 5:15 pm on the three nights of rodeo and started selling tickets immediately. They stayed till 9 pm.&nbsp;

They loved to see familiar and new faces among the ticket buyers. “We had regulars each year,” Biggs said. “You could plan on them.” They also got to see native Phillips Countians who were back for the rodeo. “You see a lot of kids who come back, once a year, other than Christmas. Whether they’re rodeo fans or not, they’re still (at the rodeo), because all their buddies are there. That’s just how it works.”&nbsp;

Lower and Biggs didn’t always recognize everyone who comes through the gate. “Once in a while someone would say hi to me, and start talking to me,” Lower said, “and I had no idea who it is. Then you fake it. I’ve watched Brett so I know,” he cracked.&nbsp;

They knew they were only two of the dozens of volunteers who make the rodeo successful. They were glad to not be the cotton candy person. “If you do cotton candy,” Lower said, “you end up wearing cotton candy. The rule is to stay up wind,” he quipped.&nbsp;

It takes the whole town to pull off an event that draws more than three times its population to the rodeo. “If you live here, you’re going to be asked to help,” Lower said.&nbsp;

But they didn’t mind. It helps the local economy: the restaurants and motels are full, even places like the grocery store, hardware store and laundromat are busy.

“It’s a big deal for the town, so you do what you can to help,” he said.

Kansas Biggest Rodeo celebrates its 92nd&nbsp;year August 5-7 in Phillipsburg. The rodeo starts at 8 pm each night. Tickets range in price from $16-19 for adults and $12-$15 for children. Children ages ten and under get free admittance with the purchase of an adult ticket for the August 5 rodeo.&nbsp;

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623679829211.jpeg" alt="Ron Lower, left, and Brett Biggs have volunteered to man the ticket booth at the Phillipsburg rodeo for the last 30-plus years, for all three nights of rodeo. They retired after the 2019 rodeo. " />
 <figcaption>Ron Lower, left, and Brett Biggs have volunteered to man the ticket booth at the Phillipsburg rodeo for the last 30-plus years, for all three nights of rodeo. They retired after the 2019 rodeo. </figcaption>
 </figure>PHILLIPSBURG —&nbsp;For the past 30-plus years, Ron Lower and Brett Biggs have been cooped up during the Phillipsburg rodeo, shut into an eight-by-ten room and assigned to get their work done.&nbsp;It wasn’t jail, and actually they chose to be there.&nbsp;They were two of the ticket sellers, the first faces fans saw as they arrived at Kansas Biggest Rodeo.&nbsp;They retired after the 2019 rodeo, but for the previous three decades, they sold tickets at the north gate, in the ticket office.The two, longtime friends who are always cutting up and poking fun at each other, were in charge of general admission sales, not the assigned seats, which are taken care of by other volunteers. It is harder to mess up general admission tickets, Lower joked. “You can have a limited vocabulary (with the job.) We prefer to sell general admission. We know our place,” he quipped.&nbsp;It can be hot work. If there’s no breeze, the air is muggy and still, and even a fan doesn’t help much. But too much wind is also a problem. “We hate a windy night,” Lower said, “because it blows the money all over hell.”&nbsp;The men, along with other volunteers, arrived by 5:15 pm on the three nights of rodeo and started selling tickets immediately. They stayed till 9 pm.&nbsp;They loved to see familiar and new faces among the ticket buyers. “We had regulars each year,” Biggs said. “You could plan on them.” They also got to see native Phillips Countians who were back for the rodeo. “You see a lot of kids who come back, once a year, other than Christmas. Whether they’re rodeo fans or not, they’re still (at the rodeo), because all their buddies are there. That’s just how it works.”&nbsp;Lower and Biggs didn’t always recognize everyone who comes through the gate. “Once in a while someone would say hi to me, and start talking to me,” Lower said, “and I had no idea who it is. Then you fake it. I’ve watched Brett so I know,” he cracked.&nbsp;They knew they were only two of the dozens of volunteers who make the rodeo successful. They were glad to not be the cotton candy person. “If you do cotton candy,” Lower said, “you end up wearing cotton candy. The rule is to stay up wind,” he quipped.&nbsp;It takes the whole town to pull off an event that draws more than three times its population to the rodeo. “If you live here, you’re going to be asked to help,” Lower said.&nbsp;But they didn’t mind. It helps the local economy: the restaurants and motels are full, even places like the grocery store, hardware store and laundromat are busy.“It’s a big deal for the town, so you do what you can to help,” he said.Kansas Biggest Rodeo celebrates its 92nd&nbsp;year August 5-7 in Phillipsburg. The rodeo starts at 8 pm each night. Tickets range in price from $16-19 for adults and $12-$15 for children. Children ages ten and under get free admittance with the purchase of an adult ticket for the August 5 rodeo.&nbsp;For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasbiggestrodeo.com/">KansasBiggestRodeo.com</a>.

Friends work for more than three decades as ticket takers at Phillipsburg rodeo

HaysMed has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain&nbsp; ̶&nbsp; MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2021. HaysMed is one of only 212 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor.

The award recognizes HaysMed’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that HaysMed has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.

To receive the Chest Pain&nbsp; ̶ &nbsp;MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award, HaysMed has demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain&nbsp; ̶&nbsp; &nbsp;MI Registry for two consecutive years (2019 and 2020), and performed at the highest level for specific performance measures.&nbsp;Full participation in the registry engages hospitals in a robust quality improvement process using data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart attack patients.

“As a Platinum Performance Award recipient, HaysMed has established itself as a leader in setting the national standard for improving quality of care in patients with acute myocardial infarction,” said Michael C. Kontos, MD, FACC, chair of the NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Steering Subcommittee, and cardiologist at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center. “By meeting the award requirements set forth in the registry, HaysMed has demonstrated a commitment to providing reliable, comprehensive treatment for heart attack patients based on current clinical guideline recommendations.”

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that almost 700,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. A heart attack occurs when a blood clot in a coronary artery partially or completely blocks blood flow to the heart muscle. Treatment guidelines include administering aspirin upon arrival and discharge, timely restoration of blood flow to the blocked artery, smoking cessation counseling and cardiac rehabilitation, among others.

“Our staff is dedicated to providing the highest level of cardiac care for patients in Western Kansas.” Said Eddie Herrman, President and CEO.&nbsp; “The Debakey Heart Institute was founded over 20 years ago for the purpose of giving people in the area access to life saving cardiac care.&nbsp; Time is of the essence in treating heart attacks and having cardiac care available close to home has a direct effect on saving lives.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623681349004.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain&nbsp; ̶&nbsp; MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2021. HaysMed is one of only 212 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor.The award recognizes HaysMed’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that HaysMed has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.To receive the Chest Pain&nbsp; ̶ &nbsp;MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award, HaysMed has demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain&nbsp; ̶&nbsp; &nbsp;MI Registry for two consecutive years (2019 and 2020), and performed at the highest level for specific performance measures.&nbsp;Full participation in the registry engages hospitals in a robust quality improvement process using data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart attack patients.“As a Platinum Performance Award recipient, HaysMed has established itself as a leader in setting the national standard for improving quality of care in patients with acute myocardial infarction,” said Michael C. Kontos, MD, FACC, chair of the NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Steering Subcommittee, and cardiologist at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center. “By meeting the award requirements set forth in the registry, HaysMed has demonstrated a commitment to providing reliable, comprehensive treatment for heart attack patients based on current clinical guideline recommendations.”The Centers for Disease Control estimates that almost 700,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. A heart attack occurs when a blood clot in a coronary artery partially or completely blocks blood flow to the heart muscle. Treatment guidelines include administering aspirin upon arrival and discharge, timely restoration of blood flow to the blocked artery, smoking cessation counseling and cardiac rehabilitation, among others.“Our staff is dedicated to providing the highest level of cardiac care for patients in Western Kansas.” Said Eddie Herrman, President and CEO.&nbsp; “The Debakey Heart Institute was founded over 20 years ago for the purpose of giving people in the area access to life saving cardiac care.&nbsp; Time is of the essence in treating heart attacks and having cardiac care available close to home has a direct effect on saving lives.”

HaysMed again among nation’s top performers for heart attack treatment

Kansas State Treasurer Lynn Rogers will be the guest of honor at a rally of the Ellis County Democratic Party in Hays’ Frontier Park West from 5 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 23.

Hot dogs and drinks will be provided courtesy of Ellis County Democrats.

Rogers, a businessman with 40 years of banking experience, was sworn in as the 41st&nbsp;state treasurer on Jan. 4.

“When I took office, I promised to continue working to better the lives of Kansans across the state, no matter the ZIP code,” Rogers said. “I’ve met Kansans from every corner of the state and from all walks of life. Everywhere I go, I hear the same messages — Kansans want to have the financial freedom to own a home and support their kids’ educational goals, and the infrastructure and technology to encourage a prosperous community.”

Since taking office, Treasurer Rogers’ administration has returned over $8.5 million in unclaimed property to Kansans across the state; kept the lights on for Kansans with the implementation of the City Utility Loan program, which has approved nearly $70 million in loans for Kansas municipalities; negotiated a bipartisan bill creating a low-cost loan program for struggling small businesses and agriculture operations; successfully promoted and grew by 35 percent the Kansas Learning Quest 529 Education Savings Plans, putting young Kansans on the right track to academic success and financial empowerment.

He spent more than 30 years traveling the state of Kansas as an agricultural banker. Among other accomplishments, he helped provide more than $750 million worth of leasing and financial services to farmers, ranchers, and grain cooperatives.

After retirement, he was elected to the Kansas Senate representing the 25th&nbsp;Senate District, which includes parts of Wichita, serving until 2019. He was a member of the Financial Institutions and Insurance, the Federal and State Affairs, and Agriculture committees. He also served on the Legislative Post Audit Committee.

Rogers was elected to the Wichita USD 259 Board of Education in 2001, serving as president or vice-president for seven of those years. Lynn also volunteered on his local Parent Teacher Organization and his local church.

From 2019 to 2021, he was lieutenant governor. From that position, he also led the Office of Rural Prosperity, focusing on increasing opportunities in rural communities, especially in the areas of expanding broadband and housing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623679923050.jpeg" alt="Lynn Rogers" />
 <figcaption>Lynn Rogers</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedKansas State Treasurer Lynn Rogers will be the guest of honor at a rally of the Ellis County Democratic Party in Hays’ Frontier Park West from 5 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 23.Hot dogs and drinks will be provided courtesy of Ellis County Democrats.Rogers, a businessman with 40 years of banking experience, was sworn in as the 41st&nbsp;state treasurer on Jan. 4.“When I took office, I promised to continue working to better the lives of Kansans across the state, no matter the ZIP code,” Rogers said. “I’ve met Kansans from every corner of the state and from all walks of life. Everywhere I go, I hear the same messages — Kansans want to have the financial freedom to own a home and support their kids’ educational goals, and the infrastructure and technology to encourage a prosperous community.”Since taking office, Treasurer Rogers’ administration has returned over $8.5 million in unclaimed property to Kansans across the state; kept the lights on for Kansans with the implementation of the City Utility Loan program, which has approved nearly $70 million in loans for Kansas municipalities; negotiated a bipartisan bill creating a low-cost loan program for struggling small businesses and agriculture operations; successfully promoted and grew by 35 percent the Kansas Learning Quest 529 Education Savings Plans, putting young Kansans on the right track to academic success and financial empowerment.He spent more than 30 years traveling the state of Kansas as an agricultural banker. Among other accomplishments, he helped provide more than $750 million worth of leasing and financial services to farmers, ranchers, and grain cooperatives.After retirement, he was elected to the Kansas Senate representing the 25th&nbsp;Senate District, which includes parts of Wichita, serving until 2019. He was a member of the Financial Institutions and Insurance, the Federal and State Affairs, and Agriculture committees. He also served on the Legislative Post Audit Committee.Rogers was elected to the Wichita USD 259 Board of Education in 2001, serving as president or vice-president for seven of those years. Lynn also volunteered on his local Parent Teacher Organization and his local church.From 2019 to 2021, he was lieutenant governor. From that position, he also led the Office of Rural Prosperity, focusing on increasing opportunities in rural communities, especially in the areas of expanding broadband and housing.

Kansas treasurer to speak at Ellis Co. Democratic rally

Just this week, I was talking with a local pastor about his decision to retire a few years sooner than he had planned. Moving nearer his grandkids is his main motivation, but we both agreed that once we reach retirement age, our future health is on our mind oftener than it used to be. I’ll be 70 this summer and my health is at least average, but I just seem to feel a little older each day. With that and fishing season both in mind, here are some thoughts on becoming an “Old Fisherman.”&nbsp;

You’re probably an old fisherman if you still smell like Ben Gay even after you’ve cleaned your fish.

If you waste countless hours of prime fishing time reeling and casting, reeling and casting, because you can’t remember whether or not you just re-baited your hook, you’re probably an old fisherman.

If, after reaching quickly under the boat seat for the dip net, you’ve found yourself holding your cane instead, you’re probably an old fisherman.

If you have ever started to hold the line between your teeth only to discover you’ve left your teeth at home at home, you’re probably an old fisherman.

If removing that occasional fishbone from your teeth can now be accomplished by removing your teeth and tapping them on the table, you just might be an old fisherman.

If you’re shore lunch now includes a tall, cool thermos of Metamucil and a box of prunes, you’re probably an old fisherman.

If your fishing buddies are now more than happy to take you along to their secret “honey holes” because they are confident you’ll never remember where you were anyway, you’re probably an old fisherman.

You’re probably an old fisherman if your wife now begs to go fishing with you because she’s afraid you’ll forget your way back home (you should feel lucky she wants you back home).

You’re probably an old fisherman if your favorite fishing chair is now one of those fancy walkers with a seat on it, and you are relegated to fishing from the boat dock because that’s the only place level enough to park it, or if you recently removed a seat from your boat to make room for your walker.&nbsp;

You just might be an old fisherman, if to you, the letters GPS mean Gotta’ Pee Soon&nbsp;

It’s easy for anyone to drive off with their coffee cup sitting on the roof or the bumper of the pickup, but if you have gotten to the lake and turned around to back your boat down the boat ramp only to discover the boat was still parked in the driveway at home, you’re an old fisherman.

And finally, I’m sure you’re an old fisherman if your eyesight has gotten so dim that you now haul home all the carp you catch because you mistake them for trophy bass…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Just this week, I was talking with a local pastor about his decision to retire a few years sooner than he had planned. Moving nearer his grandkids is his main motivation, but we both agreed that once we reach retirement age, our future health is on our mind oftener than it used to be. I’ll be 70 this summer and my health is at least average, but I just seem to feel a little older each day. With that and fishing season both in mind, here are some thoughts on becoming an “Old Fisherman.”&nbsp;You’re probably an old fisherman if you still smell like Ben Gay even after you’ve cleaned your fish.If you waste countless hours of prime fishing time reeling and casting, reeling and casting, because you can’t remember whether or not you just re-baited your hook, you’re probably an old fisherman.If, after reaching quickly under the boat seat for the dip net, you’ve found yourself holding your cane instead, you’re probably an old fisherman.If you have ever started to hold the line between your teeth only to discover you’ve left your teeth at home at home, you’re probably an old fisherman.If removing that occasional fishbone from your teeth can now be accomplished by removing your teeth and tapping them on the table, you just might be an old fisherman.If you’re shore lunch now includes a tall, cool thermos of Metamucil and a box of prunes, you’re probably an old fisherman.If your fishing buddies are now more than happy to take you along to their secret “honey holes” because they are confident you’ll never remember where you were anyway, you’re probably an old fisherman.You’re probably an old fisherman if your wife now begs to go fishing with you because she’s afraid you’ll forget your way back home (you should feel lucky she wants you back home).You’re probably an old fisherman if your favorite fishing chair is now one of those fancy walkers with a seat on it, and you are relegated to fishing from the boat dock because that’s the only place level enough to park it, or if you recently removed a seat from your boat to make room for your walker.&nbsp;You just might be an old fisherman, if to you, the letters GPS mean Gotta’ Pee Soon&nbsp;It’s easy for anyone to drive off with their coffee cup sitting on the roof or the bumper of the pickup, but if you have gotten to the lake and turned around to back your boat down the boat ramp only to discover the boat was still parked in the driveway at home, you’re an old fisherman.And finally, I’m sure you’re an old fisherman if your eyesight has gotten so dim that you now haul home all the carp you catch because you mistake them for trophy bass…Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Are you an old fisherman? Take the test

The city of Hays Water Resources Department has contracted with Midlands Contracting, a Johnson Service Company, to conduct sewer line cleaning and inspections at the locations shown on the above map. Cleaning of the sanitary sewer lift station at 27th and Highway 183 Bypass will also occur during this project. 

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623536324465.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThe city of Hays Water Resources Department has contracted with Midlands Contracting, a Johnson Service Company, to conduct sewer line cleaning and inspections at the locations shown on the above map. Cleaning of the sanitary sewer lift station at 27th and Highway 183 Bypass will also occur during this project. Cleaning began Monday and should be completed by July 2.&nbsp;Some work is expected to be completed late afternoon into the early evening hours. Door hanger notices will be placed on homes and businesses affected prior to cleaning. Work will begin at the north end of the project area and proceed south until completed. If you will not be home or will be on vacation during the time of cleaning, please protect your home by keeping your toilet lids down. For more information, contact Midland Contracting's project manager Josh Sasse at 308-627-9795 or the Water Resources Dept. at 785-628-7380.

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